Once in a while, a chance selection of a restaurant provides an exceptional meal. I was in Davenport, Iowa, to attend a conference, and my husband had come along for the ride and a little exploring. Most of the restaurant options near our hotel were pubs, and didn’t appeal to me, so I used my trusty Map app to search for restaurants “near me”. Duck City Bistro was the choice, partly because they had paella on the menu.
A quick five-minute walk brought us there, and we were greeted by the chef himself. There is a food case near the entrance with examples of his specials, and he introduces his guests to them with enthusiasm and showmanship. This man really loves what he does.
While the menu doesn’t specify gluten-free items, the excellent staff is well-versed on the menu items, and can advise you about choices. My original choice – the paella – was set aside because of the wait (the waiter explained that most of their guests call in ahead of time to order it). I chose the horseradish-crusted salmon, and my husband had a duck dish with a framboise sauce.
The meal started with a garlic salad. Very fresh. Ample, delicious, and right-sized pieces. Nothing needed to be cut, or awkwardly brought into your mouth. My salmon was truly excellent. The crust was so crisp I had to inquire about the ingredients. Garlic and butter, with the horseradish!! A chiffonade of greens covered the salmon, and some accompanying broccoli. It rested on perfectly-seasoned mashed potatoes. MY husband also had high praise for his duck dinner. He said it compared quite favorably with a duck dinner at a very highly-rated restaurant. I’m guessing the other items on the menu would be equally successful. I only regret that Duck City Bistro is a bit too far to visit regularly.
If you’re going to Davenport, Iowa, any of the Quad Cities, or the region nearby, do plan on having dinner at this excellent restaurant. You are sure to be well-advised on some gluten free options, and you’ll have a memorable dinner.
Note: – it appears they haven’t updated the prices on their online menu. We found prices a bit higher at the restaurant. Also, menu items may be a bit different. My husband’s duck wasn’t duck breast, but dark meat.
I’d go back in a heartbeat.
Some Good Gluten Free Choices 