New Italian tavern plans Cedar Rapids opening

CEDAR RAPIDS — A new, tavern-style Italian restaurant opens in Downtown Cedar Rapids this week.

The Fireside Tavern has announced a grand opening for Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025, at 411 First St. SE.

The new restaurant, led by the same team that opened Aether Social Club in Iowa City and CityWalk Eatery in Cedar Rapids late last year, will bring some unique menu items to the local scene. In addition to a variety of quality, shareable steaks for meat lovers, The Fireside Tavern will feature handmade ravioli crafted fresh in house, a menu to build your own pasta, and shareable family-style options.

Its social media page describes the new venue as a place to celebrate a special occasion or catch up with friends in a rustic setting.

Reservations can be made in advance online.

The restaurant brings new life to the space for the first time in six months. The address’ last tenant, Chophouse Downtown, closed in August.

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