Sacred Cow Tavern is one of the few restaurants in the Oak Hill Jackson neighborhood, located right outside the Newbo District in Cedar Rapids. It opened in October of 2022, serving pub-style dishes in a unique, cozy and inviting atmosphere.
It is safe to say that Sacred Cow Tavern is Cedar Rapids’ only restaurant filled with cow décor. You can find cow pictures throughout the restaurant, along with a stuffed cow that hangs from the ceiling and a logo spotlighting a cow with a mullet and mustache. This funky and eclectic spot even has a “kiss our grass” neon sign to enhance the quirky atmosphere. Bring your date to Sacred Cow for a casual evening out or invite a group of friends or co-workers for happy hour. The welcoming and fun–and not-too-serious–environment makes for a perfect spot for locals (the tavern boasts quite a few regulars).
The building has houses many different businesses throughout the years, including a grocery store, church, disco and nightclub. It had been vacant since 1987, until five years ago when it was purchased by one of the owners who has spent the last several years making renovations and creating the space which is now Sacred Cow. An expansion of the patio is in the works and will be a great addition come summer.
The food at Sacred Cow Tavern is something to rave about. From burgers to a shrimp boil, there is a little something for everyone. One burger, in particular, is a crowd favorite: The Floyd Pepper, named after the bass player in The Muppets. This smash-style burger is laid on a hot grill and flattened to create a thin patty with a nice char. It is then topped with caramelized onions, pickles, provolone cheese, shredded lettuce and doused with Thousand Island dressing. The side is a unique one–dill pickle soup, topped with house-made fried pickles. A staple comfort food dish is the shrimp boil. It is always served fresh to order and comes with a generous portion of andouille sausage, red potatoes, mini corn on the cob, onions and, of course, shrimp. Cajun aioli, bayou broth and bread are served on the side. This dish is buttery and full of flavor.
Loaded fries are a new item coming soon to the menu. There will be a variety of options served a mile high featuring sidewinder fries (a cross between steak fries and curly fries). One option will be covered in BBQ sauce with andouille sausage, house-made pickles, pepperoncini, onion “tanglers” and tangy bleu cheese crumbles. Expect the dish to be hearty and made to be shared with friends.
The cocktails are funky and delicious and all include house-made juices and syrups, which really enhance the overall flavors. A few must-tries include the Cow Old Fashioned, Sacred Margarita and Sacred Red Snapper, which is the original version of a Bloody Mary. This specialty drink is made with pickle gin and includes the pickle soup–a pickle lover’s dream!
Sacred Cow Tavern has happy hour every day that includes two-for-one beer and mixed drinks, including non-alcoholic options. Sacred Cow Tavern is open Sunday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
For more information on Sacred Cow Tavern (and to view daily lunch specials), visit www.facebook.com.