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QC Coffee and Pancake House

About

QC Coffee and Pancake House is an iconic establishment located in the Quad Cities area, in the immediate vicinity of the city of Davenport (the actual address is in neighboring Rock Island). It is a classic American diner famous for its cozy, almost home-like atmosphere and traditional approach to breakfast.

QC Coffee and Pancake House. Source: Kupi.com AI

For travelers across the USA, this place is of interest as an example of genuine American food culture. There is no pretentiousness of haute cuisine here, but there is sincere hospitality, large portions, and an old-school spirit that lovers of authentic experiences value so much. It is the perfect stop to start the day just like the locals do.

The main feature of the establishment is its specialization in various pancakes and coffee drinks, which is reflected in the name. However, the menu is not limited to just sweets: they serve hearty omelets, sandwiches, and other dishes, making this place popular not only for breakfast but also for brunch.

Contacts

To help you plan your visit, check out the establishment's contact information below. Here you will find the exact address, phone number, and a link to the official website.

Address 1831 3rd Ave, Rock Island, IL 61201, USA
Phone +1 309-788-9589
Website qccoffeeandpancakehouse.com

What to Do

The main thing to do here is, of course, try the famous American pancakes. The menu features many variations: from classics with maple syrup to more exquisite options with fruits, nuts, or chocolate. Locals also highly recommend paying attention to their signature cinnamon rolls, which are often called some of the best in the city.

In addition to gastronomic pleasures, visitors can enjoy the atmosphere of lively conversation. This is a great place to observe the daily life of Americans, sit with a cup of bottomless black coffee, and feel the rhythm of the city. The interior lends itself to leisurely chats and taking cozy retro-style photos.

If you come with a large group, be sure to order several different dishes to share so you can try as many items from the menu as possible. The portions here are traditionally generous, so leaving hungry is simply impossible. And for lovers of heavy breakfasts, there is an excellent selection of omelets and meat dishes that will charge you with energy for a full day of sightseeing.

Getting There

The establishment is located at 1831 3rd Ave in Rock Island, which is part of the Quad Cities metropolitan area and sits literally across the river from downtown Davenport. If you are traveling by car, head towards the 3rd Avenue area; street parking is usually available nearby.

For those preferring public transport, the MetroLINK bus network operates in the region. The nearest stops are just a few minutes' walk from the cafe. Taking a taxi or using rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) is also a convenient option, especially if you are coming from the other side of the Mississippi River.

History & Facts

QC Coffee and Pancake House is one of those establishments that shape the gastronomic identity of the Quad Cities region. The "QC" in the name highlights its connection to the local community that unites cities along the border of Iowa and Illinois. Over its many years of existence, this place has become more than just a food spot; it is a true symbol of stability and traditional American hospitality.

Historically, diners and pancake houses like this played an important role in the social life of American cities. Here, over a cup of coffee, local news was discussed, deals were made, and generations of families met. The interior and atmosphere of the establishment carefully preserve the spirit of a classic American eatery, where time flows a little slower and the focus is on the quality of simple, hearty meals.

A special place in the establishment's history is occupied by its signature recipes. Many visitors come here specifically for a taste they've known since childhood. Preserving the original recipes for pancakes and cinnamon rolls over the years has allowed the cafe to outlast many competitors and remain a favorite breakfast spot for both locals and tourists.

Time Needed

Usually, it is enough to set aside 1 to 1.5 hours to visit this establishment. This time is sufficient to leisurely study the menu, enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast or lunch, and drink a cup of aromatic coffee in a pleasant atmosphere.

However, it is worth noting that on weekends and holidays, the place becomes more popular, and you may have to wait for a free table. If you plan to visit during "peak hours," it is better to budget a little more time for a potential queue, as the establishment is in high demand among locals.

Working Hours

The establishment operates as a morning and daytime cafe, perfect for early birds and brunch lovers. The doors are open to visitors daily, seven days a week.

The schedule is stable throughout the week: from Monday to Sunday, the cafe welcomes guests from 06:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Plan your visit for the first half of the day to catch their famous breakfasts.

Nearby

After a hearty breakfast or lunch, it is worth taking time to explore the surroundings, as the area is rich in historical and cultural monuments. A walk through the nearby neighborhoods will allow you to immerse yourself deeper into the atmosphere of the Quad Cities region and see interesting architectural sites.

Attraction Type Distance (km)
Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse Historic site 0.1
Broadway National Historic District Tourist attraction 0.9
Fort Armstrong Historic Site Historic site 1.0
Hauberg Estate Tourist attraction 1.4
German American Heritage Center & Museum Tourist attraction 1.5
Colonel Davenport Historical House Tourist attraction 1.9
The Palmer Family Residence Tourist attraction 2.0
Old Main, Augustana College Historic site 2.1
Rock Island Arsenal Historic site 2.7
Quarters Six Historic site 2.9

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