26 Best Bars near Ely

“I’m always looking for a review that actually tells you something. Not just, food was good! Polite staff… you know what I mean…. So, here we go.We were greeted when we walked in the door! Wow! Friendly and very attentive staff. They have a good selection of beer on tap including IPA’s. Nice and cold in a chilled true pint. Bravo! We ordered the “All you can eat shrimp” and Tenderloin. The shrimp is butterflied and nicely breaded. Comes with fries and coleslaw. I try to stay away from fried food, but I was pleasantly surprised. Not greasy at all. The shrimp was perfect. Flavor, texture and presentation. They serve in tin pie plates, which I found as a nice change from the typical plastic baskets with a paper liner beneath. My husband ordered the tenderloin. In his opinion, the best he’s had anywhere (with the exception of my own hand breaded pork loin)… The service was exceptional. Skylar was prompt in seeing that our drinks were filled and the shrimp kept a coming. We left, comfortably full. And not to forget…Karaoke every other Friday with Mike! And he starts up at 7pm. We will definitely go back. Odie’s is easy to find and only about 10-15 minutes from Cedar Rapids.Parking: There is parking right in front on both sides of the street. Pretty much like any small town bar and grill.“

“Certainly made the correct choice for St. Patrick's Day. Having never been before you wouldn't have known with such a warm atmosphere and everything you would expect from an Irish pub/bar. Everyone was very friendly and helpful. Drinks were perfect, and there were definitely a lot of shenanigans happening with a couple servings of malarkey. Thank you!!“

“We went early so a smaller crowd; likely much busier later. A fairly typical Midwestern “corner bar with food” however the food was excellent and a wide choice of tap beers with a nice Happy Hour option. Recommend!! (Kind of a hidden gem, with great service too.) We had wings and onion rings, and the daily special BBQ pulled pork and sweet potato fries.Wheelchair accessibility: Ramp in the back. Call ahead to reserve a “lowtop” table.“

“WOW. We had such a great experience at Lacayo. First, THIS IS NOT ANOTHER MEXICAN RESTAURANT. This is Latin American cuisine and it’s one of the best places in Cedar Rapids. Everything is so flavorful, it’s all made in house (even the tortillas), and the service is wonderful. We had a meal with friends and enjoyed it so much, we went back for brunch the next day. Looking for a brunch spot that doesn’t just offer the same standard breakfast items but packs tons of flavor? This is your place. You have to get the tamale. The sauce is out of this world. Will be returning and bringing friends and family to share in the experience. This place is a must if you’re going to be dining out in Cedar Rapids.“

“Not a horrible place. We were there for a company party, so the place was closed to the public and we were the only ones there. It was very open. In the way back they had games, like cornhole. I didn't really go back there so I'm not sure what else was back there. And there is a pool table up front. The only thing that bothered me was its location. It's behind other stores, so you kinda have to know where you're going or else you'll miss it. The entrance is in between two businesses and farther back. But, obviously, they can't do anything about that, so it just is what it is. I did like the size of the place and how airy it felt, the ceilings are really high, I think it was just a warehouse that they converted into a bar. But, all in all, it's an okay b ar. Not the best, definitely not high scale. I don't know how much drinks cost because ours were covered..“

“We rented a pontoon boat for the day, and they were really great in orienting to the boat and the lake. They let us load the boat before putting the boat in the water. We called when we were about 15 minutes away, and they were there to get the boat. They let us dock and get our stuff out before they loaded the boat to return it to the lodge. They told us to just leave the trash, and they would clean it up. It made for an easy trip with minimal effort. Gas was included.“

“Came in yesterday for breakfast and ordered the "Shipwreck". Came out quick, hot, and all ingredients were fresh! Asked the server who was cooking for us and she said Stephanie.... if she's the one cooking all the time, we will definitely be back!“

“We did not get food, just drinks but Moriah was truly STELLAR. She took the time to explain the history of the establishment, the importance and dedication of how they source their liquor and kept a beautiful and friendly persona the entire time. We will certainly be returning and recommending our crowd here. Thank you, Moriah, for being such a great bartender and an amazing first introduction.“

“1st time here, definitely not the last. It was a quiet afternoon, but in holiday timing, that's ok with us, less noise, quiet atmosphere where you didn't have to struggle tonearm each other. Service was great, friendly, funny and relatable. Food was even better. Cheddar fries for appetizer, a meal between the 2 of us alone. Then add on a tenderloin (which is technically a meal for 3) and a burger (which we haven't touches, yet). Tenderloin was great, crispy on the outside, moist inside. The cole slaw on the side was perfect, not tangy but not sweet. Friendly staff added to a great 1st time experience, and within walking distance s of our home, we will definitely be back. Oh yeah, loved the Bloody Marys!“

“My first visit to the corner pocket was on Saturday afternoon. It was relatively quiet. Only a few tables were taken. It was nice to have a place to shoot a few games of pool that's not too loud and obnoxious. We had a problem with a couple of the tables but the bar staff was very accommodating. The drinks were good. I would call this a friendly atmosphere. They have regular pool leagues, both men and women. They have 10 or 11 tables so you shouldn't have trouble finding a spot unless it's a league night.“

“Highly recommend! Our first visit today was spot on! Excellent service, delicious food, and a fun atmosphere! We tried the cheesesteak, the chicken bacon wrap, the cheeseburger, and the chicken tenders. All perfectly cooked! Beer battered onion rings…yumm! And those tots! Check out the homemade chips and Deans French onion dip app, classic! All very reasonably priced and they offer a military discount too. 5 stars!“

“My band had played here on a firday night and we kept seeing and smelling the food coming out of the kitchen and it all looked and smelled great. The next day I brought my wife out so we could get some food and it was wonderful. As well the staff were super nice and attentative. we would definitely recommend The Village Tap to everyone.“

“I've eaten the tenderloin which is very good, I have eaten a Canadian bacon sauerkraut pizza and several other items and everything comes out delicious. The drinks are wonderful the bartenders are very helpful on any new drinks you may want.Karaoke nights are very.“

“Stopped in with my boyfriend to have a drink at the Sacred Cow Tavern. It was my first time in his second--staff was super friendly even though we just had a drink. Will definitely be back because of how nice the staff was. Also a really nice atmosphere with the decor and lights.“

“Great atmosphere indoors and outdoors. Not currently serving food, but it sounds like this is a work in progress. Bartender was very kind and attentive to us indoors. Patio area has a mix of seating with and without shade. Bathrooms we're very clean. All around good vibes here: definitely returning.Parking: Approximately 10 parking spots.“

“It may look like just another hole in the wall bar, but this place has both character and characters. It's charm is it's just a neighborhood bar that's been a fixture for decades, many stories have been passed around about this neighborhood in the very seats I sat in. Maybe even cooler, is the fact that this bar is made up of characters as diverse as the car of 'Cheers' and yes everybody knows your name. Go in have fun, ask a few questions and let the wisdom flow! You will leave with new friends too! I recommend this place!“

“The pizza's were fantastic. We come here alot!. Husband 65th bday surprise Party. 40 even our grand children love the appetizers. Play pool have fun menu is great. All sandwiches. Great mixed drinks. 4 mugs @ 14 & change. Cherry bombs & shots 9 for .2buckLlae 15“

“It kind of gives you a bonfire with friends vibe... like you're out of town without being out of town. Lots of fun, especially if you're looking for somewhere to enjoy the outdoors and have a few drinks with friends. The live music is consistently good and the bartenders are friendly and accommodating.“

“This place is FANTASTIC!! The service is outstanding and social distancing & mask use are incorporated in how they do business. Plenty of tv's here and the prices are good. Good place to take the mrs or you g/f to relax and just have some 'us' time.“

“I love this place. It is the true definition of a "Tap". If you're being loud and obnoxious the bartender will tell you to shut up and drink your beer. Truly reflects the people of Swisher. Hard working good people. You don't drive into Swisher like you're in Las Vegas. Blinded with bright lights that blind you. Black Squirrel and surrounding businesses in Swisher reflect the people. Not a want to be North Liberty.“

“My dad and I popped in for lunch at Czech Town Station. Our waitress was very helpful throughout our meal and quite accommodating with helping us select beers to try with our meal. We both ended up getting the schnitzel with tots and potato salad. We polished it off because we were hungry tourists. This restaurant provided a nice pick-me-up for us to continue exploring Czech Village and Cedar Rapids.“

“Love this place I take my grandkids there in the afternoon for lunch. They're only open from like 11 to 2. (For lunch but please check that) and than open again at 2 for the evening . The mozzarella sticks are made homemade in house and are amazing. We crave their burgers !! Yummy !! There is a Very handsome blonde waiter. That is always so fun and has Great customer service. It's worth it to overlook the parking situation downtown !!“

“I just moved to Cedar Rapids recently to live on the river and wanted to find a nice spot to eat and have a drink after work, rumors fits the bill perfectly. They have a new food menu with specials that are cost effective and delicious. The chicken sandwich for $8 is a steal because it's massive and comes with fresh veggies. Apple pie shots for $3 are also a delicious no-brainer, definitely found my new neighborhood bar! Silver Fox kitchen staff is friendly and so is the bartender gal. They all work efficiently.Parking: Private lot“

“Kickstand has been updated. New menu and new look. Our breakfast was amazing, and so was the service. There are tv's everywhere. I am looking forward to better weather to enjoy the outside patio.Vegetarian options: Garden skilletKid-friendliness: Families were there eating, and they have a kids menu.“

“Awesome little pub. Darts, pool table, game machines. Food is great. Service incredibly polite. Always checked in while eating meal to make sure everyone had what they needed. St. Paddy's cabbage n corn beef really good. Got a big plate with fries. Thank you Just Jules for making St Paddy's start on a good note!“

“Always have a nice time....a bit disappointed in Denny today....he pulled my can of Bud Light from my spot with 40% of beer in it....never asked if I was done or had 'enough' or anything! I speak English so if YOUR bartender has a communication PROBLEM maybe YOU need a NEW ONE??? Good grief....I'm always VERY POLITE and NICE and I don't deserve THAT...and NO it was not that busy that he made a mistake....Every Customer is valued or your bar isn't at ALL....? :(“