Barrel House closes downtown Cedar Rapids location

Barrel House closed its doors in downtown Cedar Rapids last week.

The closure comes two years after it opened in May 2022.

“After much consideration, we have decided not to renew our lease, This decision was not made lightly, and it comes with mixed emotions as we reflect on the success and joy this location has brought us,” the restaurant said in a social media post Friday. “The resources from our Cedar Rapids location will be used to continue improving our other locations in Coralville and Marion.”

The Cedar Rapids location followed its first openings in Davenport, Dubuque and Marion, where it started offering upscale tavern burgers and sandwiches with Iowa craft beer. Founder Jimmy Holt said Barrel House targeted downtown Cedar Rapids after the pandemic left it with a void of restaurant options.

“We saw an opportunity to be at the forefront of the recovery and hope others will follow,” he said.

The small chain subsequently opened a Coralville location at 3230 Redhawk St. in 2023.

Before Barrel House, the 3,500 square feet Cedar Rapids location was home to La Cantina Bar & Grill.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.