EMRB Café

431 Newton Rd Eckstein Medical Research Building, Iowa City, IA 52242, United States
$$$ Cafe
(50 Reviews)

If you find yourself in Iowa City, particularly around the bustling hub of the Eckstein Medical Research Building, make sure to pay a visit to EMRB Café. This charming café offers not just a place to grab a quick bite, but a cozy refuge with a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for anyone looking to unwind during a busy day.

EMRB Café shines brightly with its array of convenient offerings, particularly appreciated by the local workforce. With the daily hustle and bustle in mind, it delivers a solid selection of quick, satisfying meals and, notably, an impressive salad bar that invites you to compose your ideal mix of greens and toppings. Fresh, vibrant, and fulfilling, the salad bar is a lunchtime haven for health-conscious diners.

The café also prides itself on its great coffee—particularly noteworthy given that they serve Starbucks brews. You can enjoy this premium coffee experience while saving a few bucks. For just $1.25, you can refill your mug (bring your own for a more sustainable option). This is not just any coffee; it's made with care and consistency—an assurance that barista Phil, who has worked at Starbucks, stands firmly behind.

And let’s not forget about the specials! The Monday mocha for just $2.50 is a delightful treat that can brighten even the most mundane of Mondays. For those looking for convenience and quality, EMRB Café is a go-to spot, especially considering its approachability and the clean preparation of its food, as highlighted by customer Emily Fox. While it may be a cafeteria setting, it’s one that prioritizes cleanliness and has a commitment to satisfying its diners.

Ultimately, EMRB Café is not just about food; it’s about creating a sense of community in a busy world. With friendly faces behind the counter and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, it’s a perfect stop for anyone working nearby or simply looking for a quick, delicious meal. Stop by and experience the charm of EMRB Café—it’s a place where convenience meets quality in a delightful balance!

Service options
Outdoor seating
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Popular for
Lunch
Solo dining
Good for working on laptop
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee
Healthy options
Quick bite
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Groups
University students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
NFC mobile payments
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Tuesday

07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Wednesday

07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Thursday

07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Friday

07:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Saturday

Closed

Sunday

Closed

50 Reviews
Phil

29 Aug 2025

Have been here 5+ times. Great salad bar, great coffee. Coffee refill (e.g. bring your own mug) is only $1.25!!! (I have 18oz mug) - and it's starbucks! They brew it well - I worked at Starbucks for 5 months before in the past - so I know. Great daily specials! *mocha's on mondays are $2.50!! As someone who works nearby - I'm glad this place is here.

Emily Fox

16 Jun 2025

Listen, you aren't eating here because you want the best food. You are eating here because it is close to your work, quick, and not going to make you sick. They are very clean and the food is prepared well, but it is a cafeteria and that is what you should expect.

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