If you find yourself in Fargo’s thriving Davies neighborhood, you’re in for a delicious surprise. While Davies is best known for its schools and suburban charm, its food scene is experiencing a true renaissance, with new tastes popping up alongside beloved classics. Whether you’re looking for a Saturday morning pastry, a craveable lunch, or date-night ambiance, the culinary offerings here are both varied and vibrant. Get ready for a local’s tour—as your foodie friend, I’ll guide you to the best bites in town.
The Heart of Davies: 25th Street & 40th Avenue Dining Cluster
It’s no secret that many of Davies’ go-to dining spots are found near the friendly intersection of 25th Street and 40th Avenue S. This walkable stretch is dotted with eateries catering to all cravings.
- Spicy Pie – Pizza lovers rejoice! Famous for its hefty New York-style slices, Spicy Pie is a casual spot with a lively vibe. Build your own pie (the garlic butter crust is a local favorite) or try their loaded nachos. Prices run $9–$20. Perfect for post-game hangouts or family pizza nights.
- China King – When you want comforting takeout or a quick lunch, this affordable Chinese-American standby never disappoints. Their General Tso’s Chicken and crab rangoon are beloved, and lunch specials hover around $8–$13. Quick service and big portions keep locals coming back.
- Silver Lining Creamery – An artisanal ice cream shop that’s an absolute must for dessert lovers! Here, small-batch flavors—like Sea Salt Caramel and Lemon Poppyseed—are spiced up with creative mix-ins. Single scoops start at $4, and they even offer dairy-free options.
Hidden Gems & Indie Eats
Beyond the main strip, Davies harbors some lesser-known treasures that reward curious palates.
- Beans Coffee Bar (25th Street S & Timber Parkway S) — South Fargo’s coziest nook for caffeine and conversation. Beans is renowned for its “Hug in a Mug” lattes and seasonal specials like lavender honey cold brew. Ideal for students, remote workers, and parents grabbing a treat with their kids. Don’t sleep on their scones or house-made quiche. Espresso drinks are $4–$7, with bagels and baked goods always fresh.
- Maxwell’s Restaurant & Bar (on 32nd Avenue S) — Just north of core Davies but a key player in its food scene, Maxwell’s brings European-inspired fine dining with a Fargo twist. Think: Elk Tenderloin, Duck Confit Flatbread, and impeccable craft cocktails. Entrée prices are in the $18–$36 range. Their weekday happy hour (half-price appetizers, $2 off wine pours) is legendary among locals.
Food Trucks & Local Flavor
One of Davies’ most delightful surprises? The small but mighty food truck scene.
- Luchadores Tacos – On warm weekends, this colorful truck parks near Kennedy Park or events around Davies High, dishing up authentic street tacos ($3 each) and zesty elote (Mexican street corn). Locals rave about the carne asada and spicy green salsa. Fast, fresh, and perfect for a picnic.
- Thunder Coffee on Wheels – Catch this mobile café at community events or parked at the Davies High lot during soccer tournaments. Their nitro cold brew and chai lattes are crowd-pleasers, with locally baked breakfast burritos if you get there early.
Global Eats, Right at Home
Davies’ family-friendly energy shines through in its international cuisine offerings.
- Thai Orchid (near 45th St S & 40th Ave S) — Just a short drive from most of Davies, this bright, cheerful spot is the area’s best-kept secret for Thai classics. Try pad thai with shrimp, spicy basil chicken, or the eye-catching mango sticky rice. Most entrées $12–$17. The staff are quick with recommendations for every heat tolerance.
- Sandy’s Donuts & Coffee Shop (just north, easily walkable) — Technically just outside Davies’ borders, yet an essential morning pilgrimage. Sandy’s is a Fargo icon, and their rotating donut case—featuring long johns, fritters, and flavor-fusions—never disappoints. A donut and coffee will run you about $5. Early birds get the best pick!
Sweet Treats & Bakeries for Any Occasion
- Breadsmith (32nd Ave S) – Known for its rustic artisan loaves, Breadsmith’s cinnamon pull-aparts and Dakota Bread are hot sellers. They also do a mean ciabatta and a gluten-free selection, all with a friendly, local touch. Loaves: $6–$9.
- Nothing Bundt Cakes (just west of Davies) – For celebrations, this cheerful bakery delivers adorable (and divine) mini bundt cakes in flavors like red velvet and lemon. Bundtlets are $5–$8, making them perfect for a sweet surprise or festive office treat.
What Makes Davies Dining Special?
What sets Davies apart from other Fargo neighborhoods is its mix of community spirit, family-focused spaces, and ever-evolving tastes. You’ll find kids sipping whipped cream-topped hot chocolate while parents compare brunch photos, and friends sharing takeout from three different corners of the globe—right around the same intersection.
Hidden behind familiar facades, several restaurants offer “secret menus” or locals-only specials. Beans Coffee rotates unique lattes named after staff—for the inside track, just ask what’s new! Spicy Pie sometimes features flash deals for high school students after games.
Most importantly, Davies does casual with heart: staff at every spot greet regulars by name, bakers remember your pastry preferences, and there’s always an outdoor table (or a park bench nearby) for enjoying your haul.
Plan Your Davies Food Crawl
To sample the neighborhood’s best in one afternoon, start with brunch at Beans, swing by Breadsmith for a loaf to-go, savor an ice cream cone from Silver Lining Creamery, nosh on tacos at Luchadores, and finish with a gourmet meal at Maxwell’s. Or mix and match your way through Davies’ smorgasbord of comfort and creativity—you truly can’t go wrong.
In Davies, there’s always something new on the menu. Bring your curiosity—and your appetite!