The owners of Rodina in Cedar Rapids use locally sourced, sustainably and humanely raised ingredients in their Midwest comfort food. Diners looking for something coastal will also find seafood dishes.
Writer: Hailey Allen
Located in Cedar Rapids’ Historic Czech Village is Rodina (1507 C St. S.W.), a restaurant dedicated to delivering elevated Midwest comfort food.
The menu, which rotates seasonally, is crafted around locally grown produce and meats. Right now, you may find mains like braised chicken, fried pickles with ranch dressing, grilled cheese (with an optional addition of bacon) and salads highlighting fresh greens.
Samuel and Phoebe Charles, co-owners of Rodina (aptly named after the Czech word for “family”), were Iowa natives before venturing to Chicago and Denver for several years. They decided to return to Iowa to open the restaurant they had always dreamed about. Last year, executive chef Samuel won the Iowa Restaurant Association’s Chef of the Year honor.
