Landmark Iowa City Bar Gets New Life Under New Ownership

After a sudden closure late last year, a historic Iowa City bar and restaurant will re-open in the coming weeks.

The Sanctuary Pub in Iowa City is about to make a comeback. After closing in late 2024 after 52 years in business, the pub faced an uncertain future, according to the Iowa City Press-Citizen. But the historic Iowa City bar is almost ready to greet the public once again.

Why Did the Sanctuary Pub in Iowa City Close?

Sanctuar Pub announced it was closing in December 2024. At the time of the closing, building owner Tracy Barkalow said that she had interested buyers, but there were no guarantees that the bar and restaurant would reopen, according to the Press-Citizen. But fortunately, a new owner has stepped forward and is preparing to bring back the Iowa City bar.

Who is the New Owner of the Sanctuary Pub?

The Press-Citizen reports that the new owner is Yara Elamir. In a press release sent out this week, Elamir stated that "It's more than just a bar opening its doors...its a piece of the neighborhood coming back to life." According to the Press-Citizen, Elamir is nervous about maintaining the pub's high expectations for great food and drinks.

Will There Be Changes at the New Sanctuary Pub?

According to the Press-Citizen, a few fan favorites will be back, including pizzas under the traditional green lighting of the pub. The bar will also have all the fan-favorite beer selections and a few new ones, too. The restaurant will also have many of the old pews to sit in as well.

There will also be changes. The wall decor was taken down when the previous owner left. The checkered tile floor was damaged and replaced with a single solid color, according to the Press-Citizen. The menu will also feature upscale lunch and dinner offerings.

When Will the Sanctuary Pub Re-Open?

The Press-Citizen reports that Elamir hopes to have the Sanctuary Pub back open by the first week of June, pending inspections and city approval.

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