- Attraction: Kelly’s Tavern
- Location: 2902 Broadway St, Quincy, IL 62301
- Industry: Restaurant
- Website: https://www.quincyfoodandfun.com/kellystavern
Behind unassuming exterior walls lies Quincy’s most beloved culinary secret – a place where towering cinnamon rolls dripping with frosting meet bowls of legendary cheese soup that locals swear has healing powers.
Kelly’s Tavern opened its doors in 1982 as Quincy’s first Irish pub, and over four decades later, it remains the go-to destination where families celebrate milestones, friends gather for Friday night feasts, and travelers discover why this Broadway Street institution consistently ranks among the top restaurants in the region.
You’ll quickly understand why Kelly’s stays busy from open to close every single day.
The magic happens not just in the kitchen, where everything is made from scratch, but in the way this family-owned establishment creates an atmosphere where good food and great company collide.
Whether you’re craving hearty comfort classics or seeking that perfect salad bar experience, Kelly’s delivers the kind of memorable dining that keeps generations coming back.
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Keep Exploring →Menu Highlights & Signature Dishes
The Famous Salad Bar: Kelly’s crown jewel isn’t just any ordinary salad bar – it’s a destination unto itself. You’ll find fresh mixed greens, spinach salads, and caesar options, but the real stars shine in the hot section. Two daily hot entrées rotate alongside pasta dishes and steamed vegetables, creating a lunch experience that feels both indulgent and satisfying.
Legendary Cheese Soup: The secret recipe cheese soup has achieved mythical status among regulars. Rich, velvety, and impossibly smooth, this isn’t your typical cheddar soup – it’s a carefully crafted masterpiece that coats each spoonful with creamy perfection.
You’ll taste why people drive from neighboring towns just for a bowl.
Those Incredible Cinnamon Rolls: Massive, frosted, and completely unforgettable, Kelly’s cinnamon rolls have become the stuff of local legend. These aren’t your average pastry – they’re enormous, generously frosted creations that are so big you’ll likely share one and still have room for dinner. Many visitors order an extra one to take home for breakfast the next morning.
Hand-Cut Chicken Strips: The chicken finger basket showcases Kelly’s commitment to quality with hand-battered, white meat strips that arrive golden and crispy.
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The Kelly Burger: Local burger enthusiasts consistently rank this as Quincy’s best burger. You’ll appreciate the quality beef, fresh toppings, and the kind of preparation that makes every bite satisfying.
Irish Specialties: True to its roots as Quincy’s first Irish pub, Kelly’s serves authentic Irish pot roast that’s tender and flavorful, plus fish and chips that transport you straight to Dublin’s best pubs.
Steaks and Seafood: The 10-ounce KC strip gets marinated in Kelly’s prime rib recipe, while the salmon can be grilled with teriyaki sauce for a perfectly customized experience.
Atmosphere & Décor
Irish Pub Charm: Step inside and you’ll immediately feel the authentic pub atmosphere that made Kelly’s famous. The interior captures that cozy Irish tavern feeling with warm lighting and traditional décor that creates an inviting environment for both intimate dinners and group celebrations.
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Keep Exploring →Outdoor Patio: When weather permits, you can enjoy your meal on Kelly’s outdoor patio, which offers a more relaxed dining experience. The patio provides a perfect spot for enjoying drinks and appetizers while soaking up the evening atmosphere.
Lively Energy: You’ll notice the consistently bustling environment that speaks to Kelly’s popularity. The energy level stays high throughout the day, creating that perfect balance between family-friendly dining and social gathering spot.
Spacious Layout: Despite the frequent crowds, the restaurant offers ample seating that accommodates everything from intimate date nights to large family gatherings. The layout allows for comfortable dining even during peak hours.
Other Considerations
Exceptional Value: You’ll be pleasantly surprised by Kelly’s pricing, especially considering the generous portions and quality.
The salad bar alone, priced around $8, provides incredible value with its hot entrées, soups, and desserts included. Many entrees come with salad bar access, making dinner a steal.
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Discover MorePopular Timing: Expect waits during prime dining hours, particularly between 11:30 AM-1 PM for lunch and 5-7 PM for dinner on any given day.
The consistent crowds are a testament to the quality, but smart diners arrive slightly off-peak for quicker seating.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kelly’s welcomes diners of all ages, making it perfect for family celebrations, date nights, or casual meals with friends.
The diverse menu ensures everyone finds something they’ll love.
Pet-Friendly Patio: Your four-legged family members are welcome on the outdoor patio, making Kelly’s a great choice for dog owners who want to include their pets in dinner plans.
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Keep Exploring →Convenient Services: Kelly’s offers takeout, delivery, and accepts reservations, providing flexibility for different dining preferences.
Credit cards are accepted, and the restaurant stays open until 11 PM daily, accommodating late-night diners.
Parking: Street parking and nearby lots provide adequate options, though arriving during peak times may require a short walk.
Kelly’s Tavern
📍 2902 Broadway St, Quincy, IL 62301
