A Quad Cities institution has been recognized one of 'America's Best Hole-In-The-Wall Bars!' A recent article from Mashed has chosen Mac's Tavern in Davenport as the pick for the state of Iowa!

Macstavern Davenport via Facebook
Macstavern Davenport via Facebook
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The History of Mac's Tavern

Located at 316 W 3rd Street in Davenport, Mac's Tavern first opened its doors back in 1934, shortly after the end of prohibition. It's named after Bill “Mac” McLaughlin, the bar's original owner, who unfortunately passed away 13 years after the bar's opening at the age of 45.

Even though Mac's Tavern is now under the ownership of Sasha and Gary Rowland, the official website says that the duo has worked hard to keep the spirit of Mac alive. Over 90 years later, the business still has its original 40-foot bar, which Mac built with a curve "so that all of his patrons could easily see each other."

Vintage Postcard - Mac's Tavern, Davenport, Iowa
Vintage Postcard - Mac's Tavern, Davenport, Iowa
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You can visit Mac's anytime, but the bar is especially popular during BIX Fest and St. Patrick's Day. They site says that they host the biggest St. Patrick's Day party in the Quad Cities!

Macstavern Davenport via Facebook
Macstavern Davenport via Facebook
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The Food

Macstavern Davenport via Facebook
Macstavern Davenport via Facebook
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Mac's Tavern is known for several different items on their menu, including specialty mac & cheese and wings. There are actually more than 20 different wing sauces available, with unique options such as Ponzu Teriyaki, Blackberry Chipotle Barbecue, Raspberry Honey Mustard, Mac’s Gold BBQ, and Peach Sweet Hot. The menu also features some traditional Irish dishes, like Bangers & Mash, Shepherd's Pie, Guinness Fish & Chips, and Mac's Irish Stew.

Macstavern Davenport via Facebook
Macstavern Davenport via Facebook
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Hours

Mac's is open Monday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. The kitchen closes at 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 p.m. on Friday & Saturday. For more information about Mac's Tavern, check out the official website HERE.

Macstavern Davenport via Facebook
Macstavern Davenport via Facebook
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