Iowa Travel Guide: The Quad Cities

Consisting of the Iowa cities of Bettendorf and Davenport, and the cities of Rock Island, Moline, and East Moline in Illinois, the Quad Cities provide a unique facet to Iowa geography. Combined, the cities are about three-fourths the size of the Greater Des Moines area. The Quad Cities are a frequent stop alongside places like Des Moines, Ames, and Iowa City because of their population, unique swing-state diversity in political views, and welcoming attitudes toward all things Caucus. Check out these fan-favorite spots in the area that were recommended to Starting Line:

The Quad Cities’ Best Restaurants, Bars, and Coffee Shops:

Downtown Central Perk—Located in the historic Central Office Building of Downtown Davenport, the Central Perk is a vegetarian coffee house and juice bar. If you’re a reporter looking for a place to file, its unique placement within the community makes it a great place to work or relax any time throughout the day. Enjoy a fresh juice, vegetarian meal, or fresh-from-the-grower coffee after a hard day’s work.

226 W 3rd St, Davenport, IA 52801
www.downtowncentralperk.net/

Ross’ Restaurant—Located in Bettendorf, Ross’ has had every major candidate for recent years stop in for lunch or a quick bite. Ross’ has great menu options for breakfast and lunch at any time of the day (it is open 24 hours around the clock!). Lining the walls are pictures of famous candidates who have stopped in, such as President Obama. This is a well-known, famous spot for any campaign, candidate, or traveler.

2297 Falcon Ave, Bettendorf, IA (new location)
http://www.rossrestaurant.com/

The Filling Station—Equipped with its gas station-themed décor, the Station is not only a good lunch or dinner stop, but a fun place to grab a drink, too. After every Scott County Democrats meeting, the mayor challenges new campaign staffers to a hot-wings-eating contest at the Station. This stop is a tradition for the local Democrats, and quickly makes the list as a must-go for anyone in the area.

305 E 35th St, Davenport, IA 52806
http://www.thefillingstationdavenportiowa.com/

Jimmy’s King Gyros—Rightfully known for, you guessed it, their gyros, this stop resembles more of a food stand than a traditional restaurant. There are counters to eat at if you are on the go, or eclectic picnic tables if you have time to sit down. Right off of Harrison Street as you head downtown, it is a convenient office stop for any campaigner.

1008 N Harrison St, Davenport, IA 52803
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jimmys-King-Gyros/124552117580398

Barrel House 211—A bar and grill with great food and great drinks. The restaurant space easily divides in half, making it a solid option for fundraising efforts. According to campaign staffers who have worked in the area, the staff really knows how to work with campaigns.

211 E 2nd St, Davenport, IA 52801
http://www.barrelhouse211.com/

Mantra—Great Indian cuisine. Equipped with a speedy buffet and attentive service, this is a tasty, quick option for anyone on the go.

220 N Harrison St, Davenport, IA 52801
http://mantraqc.com/

Downtown Deli—Two perks here: The food, and the easy accessibility, no matter where you are in the city.

330 Main St, Davenport, IA 52801
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Downtown-Deli-Davenport/127190060711907

Whitey’s Ice Cream—With several locations in the Quad Cities area, Whitey’s has great shakes and ice cream for a sweet treat at the end of the night.

1230 W Locust St, Davenport, IA 52804
www.whiteysicecream.com/

The Rock Island Brewing Company (RIBCO)—Located in Rock Island, Illinois, just across the Iowa border, RIBCO features music, dancing, and is a fun place to grab drinks after work and a long day on the trail.

1815 2nd Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201
www.ribco.com/

The Blue Cat Brew Pub—Also located in Rock Island, Blue Cat is armed with delicious food and drinks. You can’t go wrong at this stop!

113 18th St, Rock Island, IL 61201
www.bluecatbrewpub.com/

by Joshua Duden
Posted 3/20/15