“It’s nice, bright, and happy.” – Celia, barista of 2 years
As you walk into Cortado (named after the European Style Espresso Drink), located across from the Pentacrest, you will be greeted by not only the smell of coffee but also the signature Iowan friendly staff. Celia, one of the baristas, shared her top reasons that this coffee shop is unique to Iowa City and gave us advice about the best food, drinks, and features there.
According to Celia, unlike other “dark and dingy” coffee shops in Iowa City, Cortado is bright and filled with positive energy for patrons. Natural lighting from the cafe’s uncovered windows sets the tone for studies or conversation.
Although some would consider it a fault, two years ago, Cortado made the decision to operate without wifi. As such, many seek out Cortado for its social nature and focus on interaction. In a time where technology dominates our lives, some would see this decision as detrimental, while others will treat it as a form of relief. A couple of the main reasons she likes working there is because of her “coworkers and the relaxed work environment.” She highly recommends the shop to incoming freshman as a “place to go with your friends for good food and drinks.”
Although it may look modern on the outside, the baristas at Cortado create a homestyle atmosphere amidst the modern decor. Celia loves how the café is “nice, bright, and happy.” The staff and the drinks will provide a warm environment for all customers, even in Iowa’s colder months.
Over the summer, Cortado even played some World Cup games on their large flat screen TV located right in the front of the café. The café also had a bracket competition for customers to select the winners for each game, who would then receive a discount on a purchase. So be on the lookout next time you walk by Cortado for a game to be on the television!
Celia enjoys the cold brew with soymilk on a hot day in Iowa City and would recommend the ultimate wrap with the special addition of hot sauce to anyone wanting a bite to eat. The menu isn’t limited to coffee and sandwiches, however, as the café also offers breakfast croissants, fresh fruit and yogurt, hummus and falafel, and unique salads. GrubHub customers even have the option to order online.
Upon a recent visit at lunchtime to Cortado, a gentleman was dining there and talked about his meal and beverage. Andrew, a first-time customer, ordered the Ultimate Croissant and thought it was “good breakfast food”. He originally came into Cortado to come to a breakfast place and to get a “drink that didn’t have caffeine in it,” so Cortado’s diverse selection of beverages fulfilled his request. For non-caffeine drinkers, Andrew would recommend getting an “iced chocolate,” which includes Cortado’s homemade chocolate sauce.
As expected, Celia isn’t the only staff member of Cortado. Yochai is the hardworking owner of Cortado. Inside you can find him doing anything from making the delicious food in the back, to cleaning the espresso cups or taking your order directly to your seat. Yochai’s friendly personality and persistent smile improves upon Cortado’s approachable atmosphere along with the other baristas.
Self-described on its website as a “metropolitan-inspired, fast-paced, European Style Espresso Bar,” Cortado appeals to many types of people. Coffee connoisseurs and average patrons alike can come in, get some coffee, and just chat.
If you are looking for a bright place to study (despite the lack of public internet), an outlet for sports enjoyment, a venue for socialization, or a place to see those awesome designs on the top of your latte, Cortado has you covered!
More information can be found on the business’s website, Facebook page, or Instagram.
Hours:
7 am – 6 pm, Monday – Saturday
Published by Conrad Hellman, Dylan Mihalke, and Jake Swenson.
Primetime Iowa City Guide 
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