A new café combining Middle Eastern and Western culinary traditions opened at 14 S. Clinton St. in downtown Iowa City.
Le Crave, a family-owned establishment, occupies the former Molly’s Cupcakes location and offers handcrafted crepes, traditional Middle Eastern flatbreads, cold-cut sandwiches and specialty coffee beverages. The menu includes za’atar and lahm bi ajeen flatbreads, Brazilian-style lemonade and French-inspired sweet crepes.
“We wanted to create more than just a café, we envisioned a gathering space where people from all backgrounds feel welcome and where global flavors meet local hospitality,” said Maryam Al Share, operations manager.
According to a release, the business will participate in the Iowa City Downtown District’s 16th annual Top Chef: Downtown event later this month. The event, which has sold out, showcases downtown restaurants and cafés.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Le Crave to this year’s lineup,” said Christopher Hunter, director of marketing and communications at the Iowa City Downtown District. “This event is particularly valuable for new businesses like Le Crave. It gives them an opportunity to introduce their unique offerings to hundreds of community members in a single evening.”
Le Crave operates seven days a week with extended hours, including service until 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The café offers catering services and accepts the Iowa City Downtown District gift card, which is honored at more than 160 downtown businesses.
The establishment has implemented a rewards program offering a complimentary pastry after 10 visits. More information is available at lecraveic.com.
