African restaurants open in Cedar Rapids, Coralville

Two African restaurants — one new and one previously opened — have popped up in Cedar Rapids and Coralville.

That’s good news in the Corridor, where African food seems to be unusually popular. Google search analytics for 2022 showed that Cedar Rapids was one of only four cities with “african food near me” as a top trending search.

Tee’s Liberian dish relocates

CEDAR RAPIDS — Tee’s Liberian Dish, which first opened in June 2021 along First Avenue in Cedar Rapids at the old Brewed Awakenings spot, has reopened at 529 Fifth Ave. SE in the MedQuarter after several months of closure.

The corner shop, across the street from Bethel AME Church, was previously home to Runt’s Munchies, which moved to Second Street SE in August amid ongoing construction.

The Liberian menu by owners Teepeu and Momolu Pewu features a variety of unique stews, meats, gravies and rices. Popular dishes include fufu, a popular sticky dough; and jollof rice with tomatoes and onions.

New hours are 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday; 12:30 to 8 p.m. Saturday. Carryout orders can be placed by phone at (609) 516-4427.

New African restaurant opens in Coralville

CORALVILLE — Restaurant Gai has opened for a new African cuisine option at 104 First Ave. in Coralville.

The restaurant, opened by Peter Nkumu in November, is located across from the Bob Pearl Softball Field.

The menu has a wide spread of meats and veggies, including cassava stews, yam stews, goat and lamb.

Orders are available for dine-in and carryout via delivery apps. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.

Comments: (319) 398-8340; elijah.decious@thegazette.com