Beyond the polished facades of downtown Davenport lies a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
From family-owned diners to vintage taverns, these unassuming spots serve up some of Iowa’s most authentic and memorable meals.
Let the locals guide you to flavor paradise.
Los Primos Mexican Grill
Anyone searching for authentic Mexican food in Iowa needs to discover this hidden gem in Davenport.
Los Primos Mexican Grill serves up fresh, made-to-order Mexican dishes that keep locals coming back for more.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality shines through in every dish, from their hand-cut vegetables to their carefully prepared meats.
Food Highlights
- Cali Burrito: A crowd favorite stuffed with steak, chorizo, cheese, cilantro, onion, tomato, avocado sauce, and sour cream
- Pork Belly Tacos: A unique specialty taco that has earned rave reviews from customers
- Nachos Grande: Loaded with cheese, beans, choice of meat, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream
- Steak Torta: A Mexican-style sandwich that delivers big on flavor
- Cali Fries: A delicious fusion dish topped with steak, chorizo, cheese, and fresh toppings
Atmosphere
The space offers a casual, no-frills dining experience where the focus is entirely on the food.
The restaurant maintains a clean, comfortable environment with quick, efficient service.
Customers order at the table and pay at the register, making it perfect for both quick lunches and relaxed dinners.
Bottom Line
Los Primos delivers exceptional Mexican food at reasonable prices with generous portions and lightning-fast service.
The fresh ingredients and authentic preparations make it worth seeking out for anyone craving genuine Mexican flavors.
Address: 1143 E Locust Street, Davenport, Iowa 52803
Lunardi’s
Don’t let the strip mall location fool you – this Italian gem in Davenport packs a serious punch of flavor and charm.
Family-owned Lunardi’s has earned its reputation as one of the Quad Cities’ most beloved Italian restaurants by serving up made-from-scratch pasta dishes and pizzas that keep locals coming back for more.
The restaurant’s warm, casual atmosphere makes it perfect for both family dinners and date nights.
Food Highlights
- Seven-Layer Lasagna: A towering creation of pasta, seasoned ricotta, pepperoni, meatballs, Italian sausage, and multiple cheeses that’s earned countless rave reviews
- Hero Pasta: Grilled Italian sausage sautéed with fresh garlic, spinach and mushrooms, tossed in house-made marinara with linguine
- Sizzling Chicken Salad: An insanely popular dish that customers drive miles to enjoy
- Deep Pan Pizza: A 9-inch Chicago-style creation that’s big enough for two, featuring a deliciously crispy crust
- Fettuccine Alfredo: Made entirely from scratch with house-made egg noodles in a rich cream sauce

The restaurant offers an old-school charm without being fancy.
The dining room maintains an upbeat yet comfortable vibe that’s lively but not overwhelming.
Clean, well-lit spaces and attentive service create a welcoming environment.
Bottom Line
For authentic Italian comfort food that surpasses chain restaurants in both quality and character, Lunardi’s delivers a memorable dining experience at reasonable prices.
Address: 102 E Kimberly Rd, Suite E, Davenport, IA 52806
Rocks Anchor Grill
Tucked away in the Hilltop Campus Area of Davenport, Iowa, this tiny diner might be easy to miss, but locals know it as a treasure trove of home-cooked comfort food.
The restaurant has earned a reputation for serving up hearty portions at reasonable prices, making it a favorite among college students and families alike.
The warm, friendly staff remembers regular customers’ orders even years later, creating that authentic small-town diner experience.
Food Highlights
- George’s Skillet: A masterful combination of finely diced ham, bacon, onions, bell peppers sautéed with hash browns and topped with two eggs
- Blueberry Pancake: An enormous fluffy creation loaded with fresh blueberries and crowned with butter
- Biscuits and Gravy: A unique take on the classic featuring a creamy sauce and fried sausage mixture
- Corned Beef: An unexpectedly outstanding dish that keeps customers coming back
Atmosphere
The décor is a charming mishmash of different decades, from the 50s through the 90s, with vintage posters and advertisements adorning the walls.
The restaurant proudly displays military memorabilia, honoring those who have served.
The no-frills setting perfectly matches its identity as an authentic greasy spoon diner.
Bottom Line
For those seeking genuine diner fare with a side of small-town charm, Rocks Anchor Grill delivers an authentic experience that can’t be replicated.
The combination of friendly service, generous portions, and wallet-friendly prices makes it worth seeking out.
Address: 1526 N Harrison St, Davenport, IA 52803