J & M's Keg Bar and Grill

Good luck finding this one on Google maps! Better known to those who know where this bar is as "The Keg," this little gem sits down on 5th Avenue downtown near Benz Beverage Depot.  We had our entire list compiled and posted on the blog when we happened upon this place while shopping for some things at Benz.  We turned out of the parking lot, saw the word Keg, and the rest is history.  We were glad when we found it, because we were almost to the J's.  This is a bar that definately doesn't see a lot of strangers, it is mostly regulars, but unlike some other local bars, they were very friendly here.  The bartender talked with us about how they just recently got their kitchen open about a month ago, so we had to try some of the food.  The prices were really good, and the food was good as well.  After a few beers and a few cherry bombs the regulars started talking with us, and we got a really good vibe from the place.  Each wall is painted with a sports teams colors and logo, so I assume there are a good amount of sports games played here when they are on.  Also, you could see right into the kitchen area from the bar area, and I thought that was kind of cool.  We both agreed this was a great way to start our bar tour that evening, and will likely return to a place like this, if not for the food, for the hospitality and slow paced atmosphere.

719 5th St SE in Cedar Rapids, IA 52401





Left: Google Street View of the Bar.
Right: The menu at J&M's Keg Bar and Grill