Best Restaurants Near Carver-Hawkeye Arena: Where to Eat Before a Hawkeyes Basketball Game

Written by: Tess Helbig

December 19, 2024

Time to read 4 min

This season, both the mens and women's Iowa Hawkeyes basketball teams have a packed schedule that won't disappoint! 🏀 Make game day fun last a little longer by trying some of the best local Iowa City restaurants and bars that keep you close to the action, near Carver-Hawkeye Arena! These spots are less than a 30 minute walk or less than a 10 minute drive to the arena. With so many great places to choose from… you've come to the right place, we've got you covered and assembled our dream team of spots to hit before or after Iowa basketball games. These top spots combine great food with a fun Hawkeye-loving atmosphere, all nearly court-side. From food classic sports bars to taverns and pubs, these picks bring their A-game in every way ✨. Now, you can score big too with Fan Girl’s top 5 restaurants and bars to go before an Iowa Hawkeyes basketball game near Carver-Hawkeye Arena! Let good eats and game-day begin!

5 Restaurants to go to Before a Hawkeyes Game near Carver-Hawkeye Arena:

✨ IN ORDER FROM SHORTEST TO LONGEST WALKING TIME ✨

1. Wig and Pen Pizza Pub

1220 US-6, Iowa City, IA 52246

With a warm, welcoming vibe and friendly service, Wig and Pen Pizza Pub captures the essence of Iowa hospitality. Located just minutes from the arena, it’s an ideal spot to fuel up before cheering on the Hawkeyes. Previously named the best pizza in Johnson County by locals, Whether you like your pizza with a thin crust, deep dish, or don't like pizza at all... Wig and Pen's has got something for everyone including vegetarian and gluten-free options. The British inspired pub promises great food and a memorable start to your game day experience.

Menu Highlights: Chicago style deep dish stuffed-cheese pizza, house cut onion rings, garlic bread

Travel Time to Carver-Hawkeye Arena:

Walk: 11 minutes
Drive: 1 minute

2. Vine Tavern & Eatery - Coralville

39 2nd Ave, Coralville, IA 52241

Irish American inspired, Vine Tavern and Eatery is your classic cozy game day sports bar. Just a few blocks from Carver-Hawkeye Arena, the tavern offers tons of drink options from draft beers to seltzers and cocktails plus they've even got booze popsicles. Known for their wings and 14 homemade buffalo sauces, its easy to find something on the menu you'll love. Tables large and small make it the perfect spot to bring the whole friend group before a Hawkeyes game or to stick around it with screens in every direction.

Menu Highlights: bone-in, boneless and cauliflower wings, little Jo's sliders, sour cream and chive fries

Travel Time to Carver-Hawkeye Arena:

Walk: 12 minutes
Drive: 1 minute

3. Stella

1006 Melrose Ave, Iowa City, IA 52246

Located just a short drive from Carver-Hawkeye Arena, Stella in Iowa City is a favorite among locals and visitors. This laid-back restaurant combines a casual and cozy atmosphere with creative twists on American classics. From Cajun selections, like jambalaya, drunken chicken, and Gumbo to over 30 kinds of burgers (including black bean burgers) to choose from all made with Iowa-bred beef Stella offers a variety of great pre-game eats. With a variety of craft beers and cocktails, With its warm ambiance and close proximity to the Carver-Hawkeye Arena, Stella is a go-to destination for pregame dining in Iowa City.

Menu Highlights: crab cakes, fish and chips, Stella bleu burger, wedge salad

Travel Time to Carver-Hawkeye Arena:

Walk: 13 minutes
Drive: 3 minutes

4. Monica's

303 2nd St, Coralville, IA 52241

A local favorite to kick off game day festivities is Monica's. just minutes from Carver-Hawkeye Arena, the restaurant was previously voted best restaurant overall 5 years in a row. The pre-game spot offers both classic American dishes like burgers and fried chicken to Italian American dishes like chicken parmesan, meatball subs and brick oven pizza. Inside the cozy spot, Monica's also offers an extensive beer list with IPAs, pilsners and lagers, even including gluten-free seltzers and ciders. Beyond the food and drinks, Monica’s is known for its warm, attentive service and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for families, friends, or solo diners looking to relax before cheering on the Hawkeyes.

Menu Highlights: lobster fettuccini, chicken pesto panini, potato balls, fried ravioli

Travel Time to Carver-Hawkeye Arena:

Walk: 23 minutes
Drive: 3 minutes

5. The Dandy Lion

111 S Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA 52240

The charming and unique Dandy Lion eatery is perfect for a pregame bite before heading to Carver-Hawkeye Arena. Offering a creative twist on comfort food, like their breakfast burrito or turkey melt, make it a standout choice for locals and visitors alike. Celebrated for its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, as well as its dedication to providing an inclusive dining experience with vegan and gluten-free options. With its whimsical décor and laid-back vibe, The Dandy Lion delivers both delicious food and a relaxed setting perfect for pre-game Hawkeye eats.

Menu Highlights: chicken biscuit, house baked cinnamon roll, charcuterie sandwich

Travel Time to Carver-Hawkeye Arena:

Walk: 28 minutes
Drive: 7 minutes

Fueling up before a Hawkeyes basketball game is just as important as cheering from the court-side, and these top five restaurants near Carver-Hawkeye Arena deliver the perfect pregame experience. 🏀 From classic pre-game eats like wings and pizza to Italian-inspired meals and use of local produce, each spot offers its own unique atmosphere and flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, a quick bite, or a sit-down meal with friends and family, these restaurants provide a welcoming atmosphere and delicious fare to set the tone for an unforgettable game day. With great food, friendly service, and convenient locations near the arena, these local favorites ensure you’ll be energized and ready to cheer on the Hawkeyes this season. Make your next game day even more special by exploring one (or more!) of these fantastic spots and enjoying the energetic spirit of Iowa City. 💛🖤