On Sunday, Feb. 15, a van with tinted windows sat in the median of an expressway 10 minutes outside Minneapolis. It idled in a Michigan left usually reserved for law enforcement personnel, one that allows for quick pull-outs and pull-overs. But unlike police cars, this van didn’t have any lights or sirens — it was […]
Brix
Posted inEastern Iowa
Spoil your sweetheart (or sass your ex) with Valentine’s treats from around Iowa City and Cedar Rapids
No matter your relationship status or feelings surrounding Valentine’s Day, it’s a convenient excuse to indulge in a fancy meal, cocktail, dessert, or all three. Spend Tuesday, Feb. 14 in good spirits — and out of the waiting area — by supporting local IC/CR businesses, planning ahead and getting straight to the good stuff. Paint […]
Posted inArts & Entertainment
Five questions with 3x Grammy-nominated Americana singer and writer Allison Russell
New today! Nov. 2: Allison Russell’s music video for “You’re Not Alone,” (Ft. Brandi Carlile) One of the most powerful, impressive voices in the Americana world is making a stop in Iowa City on tour for her debut record. Montreal-born Nashville resident Allison Russell is performing at the Englert on Sunday, Nov. 6, sharing songs […]
Posted inBread & Butter Dining Guide
LV Recommends: Restaurants that feel like home
Foodies who spent the last two years dining only al fresco — or simply a casa — are itching for a change of scenery. While these local spots offer a range of fare, what they all have in common is a comfy, casual atmosphere that will help ease you back into the dine-in experience. Sanctuary […]
Posted inCommunity/News
Brix Cheese Shop & Wine Bar survives the pandemic with creativity and generosity
Communities tend to display their identity in the small businesses that line their streets. When you visit a new community, you likely won’t remember the drive-thru fast food cheeseburger you had in between meetings, but rather the local beer at the watering hole on the corner, or the first edition of your favorite novel at […]
Posted inCommunity/News
Wine, dine and donate: Brix contributes more than $13,000 to fellow downtown businesses and arts organizations
When Nick Craig, owner of Brix Cheese Shop and Wine Bar in Iowa City’s Northside Neighborhood, was making plans for his girlfriend’s April 19 birthday, he knew the couple couldn’t celebrate the way they would under normal circumstances. He and Lacy Laughton would usually mark the occasion by going to a performance or eating at […]
Posted inDining Recommendations
Drink like a patriot
You may not have learned in school, but the U.S. was founded on booze. Celebrate your civic duty by raising a glass to freedom at these Iowa City and Cedar Rapids drinkeries.
Posted inFood & Drink
Boozehound 101: An introduction to port
“Have you saved any room for dessert tonight?” I can’t count the number of times I’ve been asked the over the years, only to regretfully decline, having stuffed my face with delicious food. But in many restaurants, there’s a slightly less filling beverage option that is often overlooked post-dinner (and no, I’m not talking about […]
