The Highlander in Iowa City stands as a beloved culinary destination, offering a vibrant and diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Nestled in the heart of the city, this establishment combines a warm, welcoming atmosphere with a thoughtfully curated selection of dishes that reflect both traditional flavors and innovative twists.
Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal after a long day, a place to gather with friends over drinks, or a venue for a special occasion, the Highlander’s menu promises something for everyone.
What sets Highlander apart is its commitment to quality ingredients and creative culinary techniques. The menu showcases an impressive balance between comfort food favorites and more adventurous offerings, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
From succulent burgers and fresh salads to artisanal appetizers and craft cocktails, every item is crafted with care and attention to detail.
Exploring the Highlander Iowa City menu reveals a dedication not only to taste but also to presentation and customer satisfaction. The diverse options appeal to casual diners and food enthusiasts alike, making it a go-to spot in the bustling local food scene.
This comprehensive look at the Highlander’s offerings will guide you through the highlights and help you navigate the rich variety that awaits.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer selection at Highlander Iowa City serves as the perfect prelude to the main course, offering an exciting range of flavors designed to whet the appetite. These starters combine classic comfort with contemporary twists, making them ideal for sharing or enjoying solo as a light snack.
Among the standout choices are the loaded potato skins, crispy calamari, and the signature Highlander nachos. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and distinctive seasoning, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite.
The appetizers are crafted to complement the drinks menu, encouraging guests to savor the moment and engage in lively conversation.
The menu also features vegetarian-friendly options, showcasing the restaurant’s inclusive approach to dining. From spicy hummus platters to fresh vegetable samplers, there’s something for every preference.
The presentation of each appetizer is visually appealing, reflecting the kitchen’s dedication to quality and style.
Popular Appetizers
- Loaded Potato Skins: Topped with cheddar, bacon, scallions, and sour cream.
- Crispy Calamari: Lightly breaded and served with a tangy marinara dipping sauce.
- Highlander Nachos: Layered with melted cheese, jalapeños, olives, and house-made salsa.
- Spicy Hummus Platter: Accompanied by warm pita bread and fresh vegetables.
“Our appetizers are crafted to bring people together, sparking the perfect start to any meal or night out.” – Highlander Head Chef
Main Courses
The main course offerings at Highlander Iowa City highlight a diverse range of dishes, from hearty meat entrées to lighter, health-conscious selections. Each plate reflects a commitment to freshness and bold flavor combinations that appeal to a broad audience.
Signature dishes such as the Highlander Burger, grilled salmon, and the vegetarian quinoa bowl showcase the kitchen’s versatility. The Highlander Burger is a crowd favorite, featuring a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, and house-made sauces that elevate the classic American staple.
Meanwhile, the grilled salmon is perfectly cooked, offering a healthy yet indulgent option.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are thoughtfully integrated into the menu, ensuring that dietary restrictions do not compromise the dining experience. The quinoa bowl, for example, combines nutrient-rich ingredients with vibrant spices to create a satisfying meal that’s both flavorful and nourishing.
Signature Dishes Comparison
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Dietary Notes | Price Range |
| Highlander Burger | Beef patty, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, house sauce | Contains gluten, dairy | $12-$15 |
| Grilled Salmon | Salmon, lemon butter sauce, seasonal vegetables | Gluten-free | $18-$22 |
| Quinoa Bowl | Quinoa, chickpeas, kale, avocado, tahini dressing | Vegetarian, gluten-free | $11-$14 |
By offering a variety of main courses, Highlander ensures that every guest can find something that suits their taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile choice for any dining occasion.
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking healthier or lighter meals, Highlander Iowa City’s salad and lighter fare section offers refreshing, nutrient-packed options that do not compromise on flavor. These selections are ideal for a midday meal or a lighter dinner choice.
The salads combine fresh seasonal produce with creative dressings and toppings, such as toasted nuts, dried fruits, and artisan cheeses. Popular picks include the Southwest Chicken Salad, the Mediterranean Kale Salad, and the classic Caesar with house-made croutons.
These dishes emphasize balance and freshness, often incorporating superfoods and vibrant flavors that enliven the palate. The kitchen’s attention to detail ensures that even the lightest plates deliver satisfaction and appeal.
Salad Highlights
- Southwest Chicken Salad: Grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and chipotle ranch dressing.
- Mediterranean Kale Salad: Kale, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and lemon vinaigrette.
- Classic Caesar Salad: Romaine, parmesan, house-made croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing.
- Seasonal Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit medley with a light honey-lime drizzle.
“Our salads are designed to be both nourishing and exciting, blending textures and flavors to brighten every bite.” – Highlander Nutrition Consultant
Beverages and Cocktails
The beverage menu at Highlander is as thoughtfully curated as the food, featuring a wide selection of craft cocktails, local beers, wines, and non-alcoholic options. This variety ensures guests can find the perfect pairing for their meal or enjoy an expertly mixed drink on its own.
Signature cocktails incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients and house-made syrups that create unique flavor profiles. The bartenders take pride in crafting drinks that are both visually stunning and delicious, making the beverage experience an integral part of the visit.
For beer lovers, Highlander offers a rotating selection of local and regional brews alongside classic favorites. Wine selections cover a range of varietals, from crisp whites to robust reds, catering to diverse palates.
Popular Drinks
- Highlander Mule: Vodka, ginger beer, lime, and fresh mint.
- Seasonal Sangria: Red or white wine infused with fresh fruits and spices.
- Local IPA Selection: Rotating taps featuring Iowa City craft breweries.
- Non-Alcoholic Lemonade: Freshly squeezed with a hint of basil.
| Drink | Main Ingredients | Price Range |
| Highlander Mule | Vodka, ginger beer, lime, mint | $8-$10 |
| Seasonal Sangria | Red or white wine, assorted fruits, spices | $9-$12 |
| Local IPA | Various craft beers | $6-$8 |
| Non-Alcoholic Lemonade | Lemon juice, basil, simple syrup | $4-$6 |
Desserts
Highlander’s dessert menu offers a delightful conclusion to any meal, with a selection of sweet treats that balance indulgence and elegance. Each dessert is carefully prepared to provide a satisfying end to the dining experience.
From rich chocolate lava cake to seasonal fruit tarts, the desserts cater to a variety of preferences. There are also lighter options such as sorbets and yogurt parfaits, which appeal to those seeking a less heavy finale.
Presentation plays a key role in the dessert offerings, with each dish designed to be as visually appealing as it is flavorful. The use of fresh ingredients and artisanal techniques elevates the experience beyond the ordinary.
Popular Desserts
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm, gooey chocolate center with vanilla ice cream.
- Seasonal Fruit Tart: Fresh fruit on a buttery crust with pastry cream.
- Lemon Sorbet: Refreshing and light, perfect for cleansing the palate.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with honey, granola, and fresh berries.
“Desserts at Highlander are crafted to create memorable moments, combining comfort with culinary artistry.” – Pastry Chef
Specialty and Seasonal Items
Highlander Iowa City frequently updates its menu with specialty and seasonal items that highlight local ingredients and current culinary trends. These dishes provide guests with new flavors and experiences throughout the year.
Seasonal offerings might include dishes like pumpkin ravioli in the fall, fresh asparagus salads in the spring, or grilled peaches during summer months. This approach keeps the menu dynamic and encourages repeat visits to explore new tastes.
The kitchen collaborates with local farmers and producers to source the freshest ingredients, ensuring that each seasonal plate reflects the best of the current harvest. This commitment to sustainability and quality resonates with environmentally conscious diners.
Seasonal Highlights
- Autumn Pumpkin Ravioli: Served with sage brown butter sauce and toasted walnuts.
- Spring Asparagus Salad: Fresh asparagus, shaved parmesan, lemon vinaigrette.
- Summer Grilled Peach Dessert: Peaches with honey glaze and mascarpone cream.
- Winter Root Vegetable Stew: Slow-cooked with herbs and seasonal spices.
| Season | Featured Dish | Main Ingredients |
| Fall | Pumpkin Ravioli | Pumpkin, sage, butter, walnuts |
| Spring | Asparagus Salad | Asparagus, parmesan, lemon |
| Summer | Grilled Peach Dessert | Peaches, honey, mascarpone |
| Winter | Root Vegetable Stew | Carrots, parsnips, herbs |
Family and Group Dining Options
Highlander Iowa City recognizes the importance of accommodating families and larger groups, offering menu options designed to share and enjoy together. These offerings facilitate a community-style dining experience that is both convenient and satisfying.
Group platters and family-style meals allow guests to sample a variety of dishes without the need to order individually. This promotes interaction and enjoyment, making meals more social and engaging.
The menu includes combinations of appetizers, mains, and sides that cater to diverse tastes within a group.
The restaurant also provides customizable options for events and celebrations, ensuring that dietary restrictions and preferences are addressed with care. Whether for birthday parties, business gatherings, or casual get-togethers, Highlander’s group dining options make hosting effortless.
Group Menu Features
- Appetizer Sampler Platter: Includes favorites like wings, potato skins, and nachos.
- Family-Style Entree Sharing: Options such as roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, and pasta dishes.
- Kid-Friendly Meals: Smaller portions with classic favorites like mac and cheese and chicken tenders.
- Customizable Beverage Packages: Including soft drinks, beer, and wine selections.
“Sharing great food brings people closer, and Highlander’s group menus are designed to foster that connection.” – Restaurant Manager
Conclusion
The Highlander Iowa City menu offers an impressive spectrum of dishes that reflect a passion for culinary excellence and guest satisfaction. From its flavorful appetizers to its thoughtfully crafted main courses, every item is designed to engage the senses and provide a memorable dining experience.
Its commitment to variety and inclusivity ensures that diners with different tastes and dietary needs find satisfying options. The integration of seasonal specialties and group dining possibilities further enriches the menu, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Whether you’re visiting for a casual meal, a celebratory dinner, or simply to enjoy handcrafted cocktails in a lively atmosphere, Highlander’s menu delivers consistently high quality and creativity. This dedication to both tradition and innovation solidifies its place as a standout dining destination in Iowa City.
