Quad Cities is an Iowa and Illinois metropolitan area with a population of over 400,000 people.
The Quad Cities is home to two major universities, Augustana College and St. Ambrose University, as well as several community colleges. This makes the Quad Cities a popular destination for students from all over the world.
One of the best things about the Quad Cities is the food scene. The Quad Cities has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, including everything from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. And because the Quad Cities is a college town, there are many restaurants that offer student discounts.
If you’re a student looking for the best restaurants in the Quad Cities, you’re in luck. This article will list the 21 best restaurants in the Quad Cities for students, based on factors such as price, quality of food, and student discounts.
The Quad Cities is home to a diverse culinary landscape, with restaurants serving up everything from classic American fare to international cuisine.
Whether you’re in the mood for a burger and fries, a bowl of pho, or a plate of pasta, you’re sure to find it in the Quad Cities.
And the best part?
Many of the Quad Cities’ best restaurants are located within walking distance of the universities. So, whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat between classes or a leisurely meal with friends, you’re sure to find a great restaurant nearby.
Best Restaurants in Quad Cities as a Student
Here are the 21 best restaurants in Quad Cities to explore as a student:
1. The Bent River Brewing Company
2. The Front Yard
3. George’s Coney Island
4. Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor
5. Iowa Machine Shed
6. Jefferson’s Bar & Grill
7. Jimmy’s Italian Villa
8. La Tapatia
9. Duck City Bistro
10. Mackenzie River Pizza Co.
11. Thunder Bay Grille Davenport
12. Molly’s Cupcakes
13. Mr Lucky’s
14. Muddy Boot Bar & Grill
15. Mykonos Greek Restaurant
16. Panera Bread
17. Pizza Hut
18. Qdoba Mexican Grill
19. Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
20. SUBWAY
21. Taco Bell
1. The Bent River Brewing Company
As a student in the Quad Cities, you are always looking for great places to eat that are affordable and fun. Bent River Brewing Company is a great option for both!
Bent River is a popular brewery and restaurant located in Moline, Illinois. It is known for its award-winning craft beers and its delicious food.
The menu features a variety of pub favorites, such as burgers, pizzas, and sandwiches. There are also a number of vegetarian and vegan options available.
One of the things that makes Bent River so great for students is its affordable prices. The menu is full of items that are priced under $10, and there are always daily specials that offer even more savings.
Another great thing about Bent River is its casual atmosphere. It is a great place to go to relax and unwind after a long day of classes.
The restaurant has a large indoor dining area, as well as a spacious outdoor patio. There is also a full bar, where you can order a variety of beers, cocktails, and wines.
2. The Front Yard
The Front Yard is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities for students because it offers a delicious and affordable menu in a casual and relaxed atmosphere.
The menu features a variety of American dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. Everything is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the prices are very reasonable.
The Front Yard is also a great place to go for drinks. They have a full bar with a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. They also offer happy hour specials every day of the week.
In addition to the great food and drinks, The Front Yard also has a great atmosphere. The dining room is spacious and airy, with plenty of seating for both small and large groups. There is also a large outdoor patio that is perfect for dining on a warm day.
3. George’s Coney Island
As a student in the Quad Cities, there are a lot of things to consider when choosing where to eat. You want food that is delicious, affordable, and convenient. That’s why George’s Coney Island is one of the best restaurants for students in the area.
George’s is a Quad Cities staple, and it’s easy to see why. The food is simple but delicious. The menu features classic Coney Island fare like coney dogs, chili dogs, and hamburgers. They also have a variety of sides, including fries, onion rings, and milkshakes.
But what really sets George’s apart is its price. Everything on the menu is under $10, making it a great option for students on a budget. And because it’s a coney island, the food is served quickly, so you can get in and out in a hurry.
4. Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor
Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor is a Quad Cities institution, and for good reason. It’s one of the best restaurants in the area for students, offering a wide variety of affordable and delicious food, as well as a fun and casual atmosphere.
Happy Joe’s has a wide variety of menu items that are perfect for students on a budget. From pizza and pasta to sandwiches and salads, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget about the ice cream! Happy Joe’s has a wide variety of ice cream treats, from sundaes and milkshakes to floats and pies.
Happy Joe’s is also known for its delicious food, made with fresh ingredients and prepared with care. The pizza is some of the best in the Quad Cities, and the pasta dishes are also excellent. And of course, the ice cream is amazing. If you’re a student in the Quad Cities, be sure to check out Happy Joe’s Pizza & Ice Cream Parlor.
5. Iowa Machine Shed
As a student in the Quad Cities, you should always look for great places to eat that won’t break the bank. One of the best places is the Iowa Machine Shed Restaurant. It’s a casual, family-friendly restaurant that serves up delicious, home-style cooking at reasonable prices.
The Machine Shed is known for its hearty portions and its wide variety of menu options. There’s something for everyone, from classic American dishes like fried chicken and steak to more unique items like chicken pot pie and pork chops with apple butter sauce.
The restaurant also has a great selection of sides, including mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and macaroni and cheese. And of course, no meal at the Machine Shed is complete without one of their famous cinnamon rolls.
6. Jefferson’s Bar & Grill
Jefferson’s Bar & Grill is undoubtedly one of the best dining establishments in the Quad Cities, and as a student, it’s a personal favorite for several reasons.
First and foremost, the atmosphere at Jefferson’s is perfect for students. It strikes a balance between casual and upscale, making it suitable for both a night out with friends and a special date night.
The dimly lit, cozy interior provides a welcoming ambiance, and the friendly staff ensures you feel right at home.
Now, let’s talk about the food. The menu at Jefferson’s is a culinary delight. From their mouthwatering burgers to their delectable steaks, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
As a student, you will appreciate their affordable prices, especially during happy hour. It’s the ideal place to treat yourself without breaking the bank.
7. Jimmy’s Italian Villa
Jimmy’s Italian Villa is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities for students. The food is delicious, the prices are affordable, and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed.
The menu at Jimmy’s features a wide variety of Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood.
The pasta dishes are all made fresh to order, and the pizza is made with a crispy crust and generous toppings. The seafood dishes are also excellent, and the scampi is a particular favorite among students.
In addition to the main menu, Jimmy’s also offers a variety of daily specials. These specials are often discounted, making them even more affordable for students. Jimmy’s also has a happy hour, which offers discounted drinks and appetizers.
The atmosphere at Jimmy’s is casual and relaxed. The restaurant is decorated in a rustic Italian style, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. Jimmy’s is a great place to go with friends for a casual meal or to celebrate a special occasion.
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8. La Tapatia
La Tapatia is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities, especially for students. It is a family-owned and operated Mexican restaurant that has been serving up delicious and authentic food for over 20 years.
The prices are very reasonable, and the portions are huge. The staff is always friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
One of the things that makes La Tapatia so great is its wide variety of menu options. There is something for everyone, from classic Mexican dishes like tacos and burritos to more unique items like mole poblano and chiles en nogada. The food is always fresh and flavorful, and the presentation is beautiful.
Finally, La Tapatia has student-friendly prices. The atmosphere at La Tapatia is perfect for students.
The restaurant is casual and relaxed, and the staff is always happy to accommodate large groups. There is also a large outdoor patio that is perfect for dining on a warm day.
9. Duck City Bistro
Duck City Bistro in the Quad Cities is one of the best restaurants in Quad Cities to visit as a student. It’s a locally owned and operated restaurant that serves up delicious, globally-influenced cuisine at reasonable prices.
One of the best things about Duck City Bistro is its atmosphere. It’s a cozy, romantic restaurant with candlelit tables and a warm, inviting ambiance. It’s the perfect place to go for a special occasion or a night out with friends.
The menu at Duck City Bistro features a variety of dishes, from classic American fare to more exotic options. It also has a great wine list and a full bar where the bartenders are always happy to help you choose the perfect drink to pair with your meal.
10. Mackenzie River Pizza Co.
Mackenzie River Pizza Co. is one of the best restaurants in Quad Cities, especially for students. The pizza is delicious and affordable, and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. It’s the perfect place to go with friends for a quick bite or a leisurely meal.
The pizza is always fresh and hot, and the crust is perfectly thin and crispy. There’s a wide variety of toppings to choose from, so everyone can find something they like.
In addition to pizza, Mackenzie River Pizza Co. also has a variety of other menu items, such as salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.
11. Thunder Bay Grille Davenport
Thunder Bay Grille is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities for students, offering a delicious and diverse menu at affordable prices.
The restaurant has a casual atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends or classmates.
Thunder Bay Grille offers a wide variety of dishes to choose from, including American classics, seafood, Cajun cuisine, and pasta.
The restaurant also has a full bar, with a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Students can enjoy a drink with their meal or simply relax at the bar with friends.
12. Molly’s Cupcakes
Molly’s Cupcakes is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities for students. It offers a variety of delicious cupcakes at affordable prices, making it a great place to go for a quick treat or a special occasion.
The cupcakes at Molly’s are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and are available in a wide variety of flavors, including classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla, as well as more unique options like red velvet and salted caramel. The cupcakes are also generously sized, so you’re sure to get your fill.
In addition to its delicious cupcakes, Molly’s also offers a variety of other desserts, such as cookies, brownies, and cakes. The bakery also has a full coffee bar, so you can grab a drink to go with your treat.
Molly’s is a great place for students to go to study, meet up with friends, or just relax and enjoy a delicious cupcake.
13. Mr Lucky’s
Mr. Lucky’s is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities, and it’s especially popular with students. The food is delicious, the prices are affordable, and the atmosphere is relaxed and casual.
One of the things that makes Mr. Lucky’s so popular with students is its extensive menu. There’s something for everyone, from classic American fare to more exotic dishes.
Whether you’re in the mood for a burger and fries, a pasta dish, or a Thai curry, you’re sure to find something to your taste.
Another thing that students love about Mr. Lucky’s is the prices. The food is very affordable, especially considering the high quality. You can easily get a full meal for under $10.
Finally, Mr. Lucky’s has a great atmosphere. It’s a casual place where you can relax and enjoy your meal with friends. There’s a large outdoor patio that’s perfect for dining on a warm day.
14. Muddy Boot Bar & Grill
Muddy Boot Bar & Grill is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities, and it’s a must-try for students.
With its casual atmosphere, delicious food, and affordable prices, it’s the perfect place to go for a meal with friends or a study break.
The Muddy Boot menu has something for everyone, from classic American fare like burgers and fries to more unique options like the Thai Peanut Chicken Wrap and the Southwestern Veggie Burger.
The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great option for students
on a budget.
In addition to its great food, Muddy Boot also has a full bar, so you can enjoy a cold beer or cocktail with your meal.
The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, making it a great place to hang out with friends or study for an exam.
One of the best things about Muddy Boot is its location. It’s right in the heart of downtown Davenport, so it’s close to everything, including campus. And, because it’s so popular, you’re sure to see some familiar faces there.
15. Mykonos Greek Restaurant
As a student in the Quad Cities, you have a lot of great options for dining out. But if you’re looking for a truly unique and delicious experience, be sure to check out Mykonos Greek Restaurant.
Located in the heart of downtown Rock Island, Mykonos is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving up authentic Greek cuisine for over 20 years.
The menu features a wide variety of dishes to choose from, including everything from souvlaki and gyros to moussaka and pastitsio.
One of the best things about Mykonos is that it’s very affordable. Most of the dishes on the menu are under $15, making it a great option for students on a budget. And the portions are huge, so you’re sure to get your money’s worth.
Another great thing about Mykonos is the atmosphere. The restaurant is decorated in a traditional Greek style, with white walls, blue tablecloths, and Greek music playing in the background. It’s the perfect place to go for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends.
16. Panera Bread
Panera Bread is one of your best options for a quick and delicious meal. It’s menu is packed with affordable options, from sandwiches and salads to soups and pastries. You can easily get a full meal for under $10.
It is known for its healthy and delicious food options. Many of their items are made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and they offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
It also has several locations in the Quad Cities, making it easy to find one near your campus or home.
Panera Bread offers free Wi-Fi to all of its customers, making it a great place to study or work on assignments.
17. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities for students, and for good reason! It’s affordable, delicious, and convenient.
One of the best things about Pizza Hut is its price. You can get a large pizza for under $10, and they often have specials on wings and other sides. This makes it a great option for students on a budget.
The pizza at Pizza Hut is also delicious. They have a variety of crusts and toppings to choose from, so you can find something that everyone in your group will enjoy.
And if you’re not in the mood for pizza, they also have a variety of other items on their menu, such as pasta, wings, and salads.
Finally, Pizza Hut is convenient. They have locations all over the Quad Cities, so you’re never too far away from a delicious pizza. And if you don’t want to leave your dorm or apartment, they also offer delivery.
18. Qdoba Mexican Grill
Qdoba Mexican Grill is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities for students. It offers a variety of delicious and affordable Mexican food options, as well as a convenient location near many colleges and universities.
Whether you’re in the mood for a burrito, taco salad, or quesadilla, Qdoba has something for everyone.
You can also choose from a variety of toppings, including rice, beans, cheese, salsa, and guacamole. Qdoba also offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, so everyone can enjoy a delicious meal.
19. Red Robin Gourmet Burgers
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities, especially for students. It offers a wide variety of delicious burgers, fries, and milkshakes all at a reasonable price.
One of the things that makes Red Robin so great for students is its variety. There is something for everyone on the menu.
If you are looking for a classic burger, the Red Robin Burger is the perfect choice. It is made with two beef patties, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles on a toasted bun.
If you are looking for something a little more adventurous, try the Spicy Jack Burger. It is made with two beef patties, Jack cheese, bacon, jalapeños, and Red Robin’s signature spicy sauce on a toasted bun.
No matter what burger you choose, you are sure to be happy. Red Robin’s burgers are always cooked to perfection and are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
20. SUBWAY
There are a number of amazing restaurants in the Quad Cities, but SUBWAY is one of the best for students. It is affordable, convenient, and offers a variety of healthy options.
One of the best things about SUBWAY is that it is very affordable. Students are always on a budget, and SUBWAY offers a variety of meals that are under $10. This makes it a great option for students who are looking for a quick and cheap bite to eat.
Another great thing about SUBWAY is that it is very convenient. There are SUBWAY locations all over the Quad Cities, so students can always find one that is close to their school or home. This makes it a great option for students who are on the go.
Finally, SUBWAY offers a variety of healthy options. Students can choose from a variety of breads, vegetables, and lean proteins to create a meal that is both healthy and delicious.
This makes it a great option for students who are looking for a meal that will give them the energy they need to study and succeed.
21. Taco Bell
Taco Bell is one of the best restaurants in the Quad Cities for students, for a few reasons.
First, it’s affordable. Students are on a tight budget, and Taco Bell offers a variety of menu items that are priced reasonably. Plus, they often have coupons and discounts available.
Second, Taco Bell is convenient. There are Taco Bell locations all over the Quad Cities, so it’s easy to find one that’s close to your school or dorm. And, they’re open late, so you can grab a bite to eat even if you’re studying late or coming home from a night out.
Finally, Taco Bell is delicious. They have a wide variety of menu items to choose from, so there’s something for everyone. And, their food is consistently good.
Frequently Asked Questions
They have great food quality
The staff at these restaurants are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive.
These restaurants have a variety of atmospheres to suit different occasions.
These restaurants offer a good value for the price.
Budget
Location
Food
Atmosphere
Amenities
You’re sure to find something to your taste.
They offer student discounts.
Also, they are located near colleges and universities, so you can easily walk or bike to them.
They have a lively atmosphere.
Conclusion
The Quad Cities is a great place to study abroad as a student, not only for its academic institutions but also for its diverse and affordable food scene.
With so many great restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find something to your liking, whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a special night out with friends.
