The Dandy Lion

111 S Dubuque St, Iowa City
(319) 358-6400

Recent Reviews

Erin B.

Based off the reviews and wait times, I had high hopes for this restaurant. However, I feel like the food was not that great and my review reflects that. I got the lodger special, and it was ok. I asked if the sausage was undercooked since the inside was pink and the waitress said the sausage was homemade and that was what led to the pink tint of the interior, but I felt like it still didn't taste that great. Also, the top was covered in what tasted like vodka tomato sauce, I scraped most of that to the side as it didn't really add to the dish. I felt a big nauseous after eating, so I would most likely not go again. The dishes around me, of people who ordered more basic menu items, seemed to have better dishes. So if I went again I would stray away from any special dishes. We went twice. The first time we went we were quoted 45 minutes. After waiting 1 hour 15 minutes we gave up. We went back the next day and were quoted 25-30 and were sat at 30 minutes. If you want to get a seat it seems the earlier in the morning the less of a wait. The staff was nice. It seems like they are known for their desserts based on the framed awards on the walls.

Magdalena

We stopped here for lunch on a very busy Saturday. We were told it'd be about 30 minutes before we got seated, and we agreed to wait. I'm so glad we did, because it was absolutely worth it in the end! We were seated at the bar, which we didn't mind, as the seats were comfy. Our food came quickly, tasted delicious, and we had the most wonderful server, who made our visit there even better, with her friendly positive attitude. As for parking, we found a spot on the nearby street (with a parking meter, so bring some quarters). We'll definitely be back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Shalini R.

Such a cute diner located right on Iowa's Campus! The cinnamon rolls are AMAZINGGGG and a must try! Lots of food options and plenty of veggie options too (one of the only places I've found with a vegetarian biscuits and gravy)! Def recommend getting on the waitlist before you go otherwise it might be a bit of a wait (though there's plenty to walk around and see nearby).

M Taylor

I could eat the fried green tomato BLT everyday. Love this place and their staff!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Moe N

Awesome breakfast joint! They've got great breakfast sandwiches and top-notch coffee. Service is on point too. Also the cinnamon roll was sooo good! Definitely a must-try!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Eggs Benedict, Dandy Burger

Elijah Wiklund

I go here once (sometimes more) per week with my partner, we love it. Best Pancakes in town! Excellent coffee

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Biscuits & Gravy

Victoria

Small very popular place. Has lots of different coffee, tea, and alcoholic drink options which was nice. The chicken was very delicious, juicy and flavorful. Definitely recommend!

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Larry Van Steenhuyse

First time here and I am very disappointed in myself for waiting so long to try it. We went there for breakfast and the only downside is the wait but it was definitely worth it. The front desk host was welcoming and efficient. Our server Stephanie was amazing with her promptness, knowledge and bubbly personality. The cinnamon roll was very light and not overly sweet. We had the eden and the California omeletts. The smoked chicken in the California was perfect and both very good. The biscuits were noteworthy too. One of our party had the eggs Benedict and it was prepared very well. This is my favorite breakfast place in Iowa City after my first visit!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Renee Clippert

The food was fresh. Staff was so sweet and attentive.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Avocado Toast

Autum Y.

Really great food and service! We went for a later breakfast and had great meals, the standard and biscuits and gravy were delicious. The cinnamon roll and house made sourdough were very good! It was friendly and inviting with their decor and table set up for their space.

heather shane

I went for lunch and the food is both thoughtful and exceptional. The ambiance is charming and the service is terrific. I looked at their Instagram and I'm definitely ordering from their brunch menu next time.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Susan K.

Cute little place my sister & I went to on the pedestrian mall in downtown Iowa City. The service was OK, not great - "we don't have low fat milk, just almond or oatmeal" then showed up w/ my chai latte w/ 2% milk‍. Our food was good. They do have GF Bread options. Toast came out dry but she asked after she brought it whether I'd like jam or butter...It was interesting that all the female servers had on crop tops w/ midriff showing but the males didn't...

Sue Eynon

Worth the wait.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

dana h

Overall, this place is great for brunch or lunch. They have a lot of vegan options, but I would make sure you ask your host before adding your name to the waitlist if all their vegan options are in stock. When we ate here they were out of Just egg. They had about a 45 minute wait on a Saturday around 12 pm. I thought the impossible burger was pretty good! Reasonably priced.

Bryce Bowman

Probably the best restaurant in its category! I wish we had more early morning food options and I love that they close early in the afternoon! If you’re thinking about going… do it!Kid-friendliness: No worries about college kids here! It’s a really fun spot for the whole family

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Strawberry Jam

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