There's an Eastern Iowa restaurant that offers a unique dining experience that you can't get anywhere else! Welcome to Cappella Magna...

Cappella Magna, Facebook
Cappella Magna, Facebook
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Cappella Magna is located at 622 Commercial Street in Waterloo, and according to the official website, it's home to the ONLY replica of the Sistine Chapel in the entire world. It was done by Iowa artist Paco Rosic, who painted the whole work of art using spray paint. It took over 5,000 cans to complete the project!

Cappella Magna was formerly known as Galleria de Paco, but it closed its doors during the height of the pandemic in May of 2020. It reopened in October of 2021 with a new name and a slightly new concept. Instead of having regular hours, the eatery serves dinner promptly at 6:30 p.m. on select Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and reservations are required. It can also be booked for private parties and events. There is seating for 68 people in the main hall and 50 people in the bar area. You can make a reservation online HERE.

Cappella Magna, Facebook
Cappella Magna, Facebook
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Not only is the interior of Cappella Magna a work of art, but the food is, too! Paco also serves as the chef, and the restaurant offers an eight-course menu that changes each season. The current menu runs through November and includes:

  • Drink: Autumn Breeze Shot
  • Appetizer: Harvest Goat Cheese Bombs
  • Soup: Velvet Harvest Soup with Rustic Bread
  • Salad: Autumn Beet & Citrus Medley with Golden Shrimp
  • Pre-Entree: Rosemary-Garlic Lamb Chops with Sweet Potato Harmony
  • Palate Cleanser: Twilight Sesame Delight
  • Entree: Herb-Infused Quail with Autumn Apple Compote
  • Dessert: Chai-Spice Pumpkin Crème Brûlée

Cappella Magna has rave reviews online, with a 4.8-star rating on Google. A recent review from Amanda Augustine says that "the entire establishment is a labor of love and passion," and Jeremy Stowe says that the restaurant "has the WOW! factor as soon as you come in the door." You can check out more reviews on the Cappella Magna Facebook page HERE.

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