Davenport locals might dismiss Italian food as red-checkered tablecloths and endless garlic bread baskets, but the Quad Cities’ culinary scene has evolved far beyond those stereotypes. It’s a vibrant landscape where you’ll find house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and not just any tiramisu, but the tiramisu that makes food lovers drive across state lines. Here are the definitive Italian spots in Iowa’s Mississippi River gem.
D’Lua
$ | (563) 888-1093 | WEBSITE
Tell anyone in the Davenport area that you’re eating in Bettendorf and they’ll be like, “Oh sh*t, can you bring me a pineapple jalapeño margarita?” And unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that they’re not asking you for a spicy fruit—they’re asking you for D’Lua’s most famous drink. The pineapple jalapeño margarita balances sweet, spicy, and tart in a chilled glass. If you’re looking for another dish to tack onto your order, there’s a very good chipotle chicken enchilada.
Alfano’s Pizza
$ | (309) 794-9597 | WEBSITE
The name Alfano’s Pizza sounds like another generic carry-out joint rather than a destination-worthy spot with some of the best crust and sauce in Davenport. But that’s exactly what you’ll find here. All the pizzas are cooked to perfection in their family-owned kitchen. Everybody orders ahead and waits patiently while they pick up their hot, fresh pies—especially the Taco pizza and the small pepperoni and sausage.
It’s as if you’ve discovered a neighborhood secret—but with people who know what they’re doing with dough and toppings.
Happy Joe’s Pizza – Bettendorf
$ | (563) 359-5457 | WEBSITE
Happy Joe’s Pizza has long been one of the more family-friendly spots in Bettendorf, with its signature pepperoni pizza anchoring a customizable menu. But with its recent arcade addition, its vibe is much more playful—think bright lighting, a bustling game area, and a menu that leans toward fun, customizable (still very Italian) pizza options. Get the classic pepperoni pizza, a vegetarian pie loaded with fresh toppings, and the gluten-free crust option, one of the best in the area.
If you’re in the mood to treat the kids, the arcade tokens are still available—for $5 a handful.
Trattoria Tiramisu
$ | (563) 355-0749 | WEBSITE
Trattoria Tiramisu feels like stepping into a rustic Italian village: warm amber lighting, exposed brick walls, and oh, watch your head—there are hanging copper pots and dried herbs dangling from the ceiling beams. It’s a more intimate (and cozier) spot than the bustling trattorias downtown, but the quality remains just as high. Order classic dishes like fettuccine alfredo and chicken parm or the family-style feast served for larger groups.
We prefer the chicken Marsala paired with a glass of red wine, fresh salad, plus a side of garlic bread.
Hall of Fame Pizza & Wings
$ | (563) 285-9464 | WEBSITE
Hall of Fame Pizza & Wings is a pizza joint in Davenport that serves two of our favorite things: hand-tossed crust and large-sized wings. The result is a satisfying combination of crunch and flavor that holds its own in the neighborhood. These generous portions are more affordable than what you’ll find elsewhere (pizzas range from $14-$22, wings from $10-$18), but you could easily share one. Drop by the restaurant during lunch or dinner hours to try the classic pepperoni pizza or buffalo wings.
There are plenty of booths inside with a casual, sports-themed décor.
The Grinders & Spaghetti House
$ | (563) 322-8649 | WEBSITE
Davenport needed The Grinders & Spaghetti House. The interior is alive with warm, neighborhood charm, from the checkered tablecloths to the friendly chatter, and the air carries the inviting aroma of garlic and baked bread. But you’re not just coming here to sit in a cozy spot that always feels like home.
The menu here is full of hearty, cheesy classics, like the wonderfully seasoned pork BBQ sandwich, beef ravioli that’s perfectly satisfying, and a cinnamon bread so delicious it’ll have you coming back for more. Head to The Grinders & Spaghetti House for family dinners, casual lunches, or a tasty, affordable meal that doesn’t require a fancy reservation.
The Grinders & Spaghetti House – Bettendorf
$ | (563) 355-1722 | WEBSITE
The Grinders & Spaghetti House is a welcome addition to Davenport’s fast-casual Italian scene (thanks for keeping it simple, Bettendorf). But this small, fast-food style spot isn’t just another pasta joint, it’s a convenient counter-service restaurant with quick, polite service and outrageously satisfying Italian comfort food made with straightforward ingredients. And while you can order their sub-type sandwiches or various pizza options, you’d be missing out if you didn’t try their pasta dishes.
Options range from classics (spaghetti, ravioli) to heartier baked penne, all served as a meal with a salad and bread. The spaghetti with meat sauce plus garlic bread and house dressing gives us that warm, full feeling just thinking about it.
Lunardi’s Restaurant
$$ | (563) 388-0001 | WEBSITE
Lunardi’s is a Quad Cities mainstay, a deeply satisfying restaurant that’s been serving the area for years. A meal here is abundant, but let’s get one thing out of the way: dinner here costs about $60 for two people. So, if you’re planning to eat here, you’re probably operating under some very specific circumstances (family celebration, casual date night, craving for hearty Italian comfort food).
Once you sit down in the welcoming but not pretentious dining room, expect generous portions, personable servers who fully appreciate how important a good meal is, and, best of all, absolutely delicious food like the must-try 17-layer lasagna or the popular hero sandwich.
Tony’s Chicago Style Pizzeria
$ | (309) 797-1800 | WEBSITE
A Chicago-style pizzeria opens near the freeway in Davenport. Years later, it’s still serving those deep dish pies that made it famous. We could tell you about other pizza places, but they aren’t this. Tony’s casual, bustling space is lively and welcoming. The generous, gooey pizzas with fresh sauce are legendary.
Then there’s the menu: hearty, satisfying dishes like the deep dish Taco pizza, the Chicago BBQ pizza, shrimp and sweet chili wings that crackle with flavor, and a meatball sandwich with fries we’d put against any in town. Who’s behind the service? You’ll probably feel it. The standout waitstaff handles every table with the confidence of seasoned pros, making it perfect for birthday parties with that awesome atmosphere. Don’t skip the Moscow Mules—they’re highly recommended.
Your Pie Pizza
$ | (563) 332-7811 | WEBSITE
Your Pie Pizza has been serving up thin, healthy pizzas (without the grease or guilt) since before it became a trend. Like every other build-your-own spot, their options are wide-ranging, so go ahead and embrace trying those gluten-free crusts you can only find at specialty places. Your family, out-of-town visitors, and casual dates will all love it here.
Looney’s Little Chicago
$ | (309) 788-2264 | WEBSITE
There’s nothing that says ‘I know where to find the real deal in Davenport’ like digging into cauliflower crust pizza at a cozy neighborhood spot. And the place to do it in town is Looney’s Little Chicago. This welcoming joint serves up delicious food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere, where you’ll be treated to crispy dry rub wings and must-try pizzas topped with sausage and mushroom, all backed by friendly staff who provide great service from behind the bar.
It’s definitely worth a visit for anyone looking to grab a drink and a bite.
Pagalo’s Pizzeria & Gelato Cafe
$ | (309) 787-5898 | WEBSITE
Pagalo’s Pizzeria & Gelato Cafe might not need much introduction in Davenport, but this cozy spot on the city’s restaurant scene offers something special—the chance to enjoy some of the best pizza in town alongside a scoop of gelato that’s truly to die for.
That alone is enough reason to stop by after work or on a weekend outing, but the food is consistently satisfying, too: perfectly baked pizzas with unique topping combinations, fresh salads with crisp vegetables, and hearty sandwiches that hit the spot every time. The efficient service even during busy hours, the welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home, and the reasonable prices that won’t break the bank? Added bonuses.
There’s even a variety of vegetarian options and the willingness to accommodate modifications, in case you want to customize your meal just the way you like it.
Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano
$$ | (563) 344-2103 | WEBSITE
Biaggi’s can be the perfect spot for a family dinner or a special celebration—both are excellent choices. This Italian ristorante serves classic desserts like lemon cake, tiramisu, and Italian donuts, all of which are described as amazing. Most meals fall under $30 per person, including a full dinner with dessert. And if you want to make it an occasion, the recently renovated bar area offers a great pre-dinner drink spot that has received high praise.
The staff is exceptionally friendly and understanding, especially when dealing with allergies or special dietary needs, though service may sometimes be delayed during busy times. Parking can be challenging in the compact mall location, but wheelchair accessibility makes it welcoming for all.
Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse
$$ | (309) 736-0100 | WEBSITE
Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse is the best Italian spot in Davenport and the kind of place where dinner can stretch into a leisurely two-hour affair without ever feeling rushed. That’s because everyone in this warm, bustling steakhouse in the heart of downtown settles in over robust red wines, classic martinis, and however many plates of fantastic bucatini with meatballs they can manage before heading home.
The menu is specifically Italian-American—that’s right, Davenport has authentic Italian steakhouse fare now—and features things that belong in a classic trattoria, including a very tender filet mignon cooked to perfection, rich crème brûlée that’s a true highlight, and knowledgeable staff who guide you through the dishes and drinks with genuine care.
Saint Giuseppes Pizza
$ | (309) 755-8810 | WEBSITE
The Quad Cities are in the midst of a serious pizza revival these days, but honestly, we only needed one slice at Saint Giuseppes to realize this Davenport spot is operating on another level. Their signature pies blend the best of Quad City style with a thin, crisp crust that crackles like autumn leaves and a sauce that tastes like it’s been simmering all afternoon.
If you’ve heard the local buzz, you know these pizzas are substantial—a large pie could easily cover a medium pizza box—and unapologetically delicious. Go for the half Chickon Bacon Ranch with its smoky bacon and creamy ranch drizzle, the half Chicken Cesar with crisp romaine and tangy dressing right on the pie, and maybe an extra order of garlic knots on the side. At around $18 for a large, it’s a steal for this caliber of pizza.
The space feels like a neighborhood joint with warm lighting and checkered tablecloths, and Joe and his crew greet everyone with genuine smiles that make you want to stay awhile. This isn’t just good pizza—it’s the kind of place that reminds you why we love pizza in the first place.
The Grinder’s & Spaghetti House – Moline
$ | (309) 764-7599 | WEBSITE
The Grinder’s & Spaghetti House, a long-standing, no-frills establishment in the Quad Cities, is what you might call a local’s idea of an Italian comfort food spot. The kitchen is behind the menu, so you know there’s a homemade, family-style bent. But you can also expect a hearty, straightforward feel to many dishes. We love the spaghetti with meatballs served in generous portions with that delectable garlic bread, and the grinder’s meatball sub on freshly baked bread with a tasty sauce.
They also do amazing family feast options for the crowd bringing their whole clans inside. Just don’t leave without a slice of the homemade cinnamon bread—a sweet, warm concoction that feels like a hug in dessert form.
Welcome Inn Restaurant & Lounge
$ | (309) 787-1500 | WEBSITE
This family-run diner in Davenport comes from the same welcoming spirit as classic Midwest comfort spots. But while those places might focus on predictable standards, Welcome Inn is where the kitchen gets straightforward with satisfying food presented in generous ways, like outstanding french fries served hot and crispy, all-you-can-eat chicken strips with dipping sauces, and grilled cheese sandwiches as a reliable lunchtime staple.
It’s the type of hearty, no-fuss cooking you’d expect from a $15-25 per person meal, but you’re getting solid food that’s fun to eat, too. Add the friendly staff who make you feel like regulars, a dining room with ample seating and a wheelchair-accessible layout, and a salad bar that comes with every meal, and you’ve got the makings of a satisfying dining experience you’ll still be thinking about days later.
Little Caesars Pizza
$ | (309) 764-7305 | WEBSITE
Do not trust anyone who says Little Caesars Pizza is just another chain. Or that the limited parking makes it not worth it. Those people are missing out. With a solid list of pizza toppings and fantastic family-friendly options, this location in Davenport is a true neighborhood spot—before that concept was diluted by trend-chasing.
The clean, well-lit restaurant operates out of a space that’s been serving the community for years and churns out what is easily one of the most satisfying pizzas in town. Kids and hungry families will always like it here, we promise.
Pizza & Subs
$ | (309) 788-7400 | WEBSITE
Pizza & Subs is the undisputed champion for calzones in Davenport and everyone knows it. People flock here for their perfectly baked dough and menu that’s loaded with savory options. Their eggplant calzone (basically dough stuffed with fresh ingredients, and baked in the same oven as the pizza) is a local legend. Come by for lunch or dinner, but plan ahead since they close earlier than most spots.
Quad Cities U.S.A. Family Restaurant
$ | (309) 764-5779 | WEBSITE
Unlike many restaurants that change hands, Quad Cities U.S.A. Family Restaurant has maintained its quality through the transition. It’s the sort of place that can be as casual or comforting as you need it to be, with a menu that’s perfect for family dining. But in an alternate universe, we’d come here every Sunday morning with one other person and only order the biscuits and gravy. They arrive with fluffy biscuits and peppery sausage gravy.
When you tear off a piece of biscuit, soak it in the gravy, and take that first bite, you’ll have the singular best breakfast in Davenport.