KANDAKA Mediterranean — Restaurant in Iowa City

This is a long review, but I implore you to read it through. This place has the best food you're going to find in Iowa City, by and far, if you give it a chance. You're going to walk into this spot, nestled between a can shed, a small grocer and a shuttered Little Ceasar's, and the vibes are GOING to seem a little off. The overhead lighting will be harsh and unflattering, the decor will be sparse, the dining room will almost certainly be devoid of any other person. You're going to wonder why this place stays open as you wait 30+ minutes for your food. You're going to feel the temptation to walk out and try somewhere else. You MUST resist that temptation.

Because eventually, your order will get to your table in a styrofoam box, even though you ordered dine-in. It'll come with a mountain of fries and not enough napkins. Then you'll take one hesitant bite, and in that beautiful moment, your socks will be knocked CLEAN OFF!

This is some of the best food I've ever eaten, not just in Iowa City but in the world. If there is a God, KANDAKA is his gift to the IC cullinary scene. This food's going to change your day, possibly your life. If I could afford to eat here every day, I would. If I could eat at only one place for the rest of my natural life, it'd be here. I don't really write that many Google reviews, but the out-of-this world quality of this place compels me to spread word of it, in a way no religion or political belief ever has. Please try Kandaka you'll be so...

My experience was disappointing.

From the start, the interaction with the teenager at the front was awkward. He seemed inexperienced and unsure of how to engage with customers. I ordered the chicken kebab naan combo and said I’d be dining in. After waiting a frustrating 30 minutes for my order, the teen called me to the counter to pick it up, which was confusing since I had already stated I’d be eating in. When I asked about a drink, he casually told me to grab one from the cooler without providing options or offering to bring it to my table.

When I opened the food container, I was immediately disappointed. The food was drenched in dressings, there was an unnecessary heap of fries, and no utensils were provided. I also noticed the kebab was clearly red meat, not chicken. I asked the teen what the meat was, and he realized he had sent the wrong order to the kitchen. While he acknowledged the mistake, I simply told him it was fine and left without eating.

Between the extended wait time, the confusing and inattentive service, and the poor food quality, this was not a good experience. I hope they make significant improvements for the sake of...

I was looking for a new place to eat in Iowa City. An article in the paper listed Hot and Roll as a new restaurant with Pakistani food.

I went to Hot and Roll for lunch to see what the article was describing. I was greeted by the owner, who is also the head cook. I had no previous experience with Pakistani food, so I asked for suggestions. After several questions, he suggested the #4 gyro, mix kebob Naan bread combo. I ordered his suggestion with a bottle of water.

This was a very good decision. The dish was a generous proportion with an excellent presentation. It is a combination of three meats served with vegetables over Naan bread and topped with three different sauces. This culinary creation was a combination of flavors, textures, and fragrances, which left me extremely satisfied with the choice to visit this new restaurant.

My experience at Hot and Roll was excellent. I am pleased I chose to try something new, asked for suggestions, and ordered what was suggested. I am excited about visiting Hot and Roll again. I am so impressed with the first dish I was served, I am anxious to try some of the...