116 3rd St SE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
Harry’s Bar & Grill closes in Iowa City
Restaurant offered retro diner aesthetic with cocktails, soul food
Feb. 18, 2026 5:30 am, Updated: Feb. 18, 2026 10:44 am
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IOWA CITY — Harry’s Bar & Grill in Iowa City has quietly closed after about two years in business.
The restaurant’s closure was made apparent by a Backes Auctioneers listing selling the restaurant’s equipment. Bidding for equipment was held on Feb. 11.
It’s unclear when the restaurant closed its doors. The restaurant’s social media page has been removed.
Owner Hart Epstein opened the restaurant at 116. E. Washington St. in August 2023. The former co-founder and co-owner of Bluebird Diner in Iowa City sold his stake in that venture three years prior.
Harry’s Bar & Grill offered a retro diner aesthetic with cocktails, soul food like fried chicken and waffles, and comfort food classics for breakfast and lunch.
Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.
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