Quad Citizens Behind the Businesses: The Collins Family

The Me & Billy team opened their doors back in 2013, becoming the anchor tenant in the historical, redeveloped United Cigar Building at 3rd and Main streets. Taking a lot of experience and a leap of faith, their family created a place that Quad Citizens and visitors alike have come to know and love.

The success of this kitchen and bar is a family affair. The Collins family has raised three girls with strong entrepreneurial spirits who have greatly contributed to the growth of downtown. Pictured here is the family that owns and operates M&B, Bill & Mary Collins, along with their daughter Fran and her husband, Jordan Maus. Their other two daughters are not in this photo but often can be found on the downtown blocks, Sarah Collins, owns What A Gem and designed the M&B space, and daughter Tricia, owns a sleek and trendy salon, Polished Hair Lounge.

M&B’s fast growth proved the downtown food and beverage market was growing significantly and boosted confidence, paving the way for other restaurateurs to keep building on downtown’s success. Their concept helped enhance the quality of finish for restaurant buildouts and service. We will always admire and be grateful for their investment in our downtown community.

Best known for:

They typically change their menu twice per year to keep things interesting, however, they maintain a few staple items that we could never part with, such as the Billy Burger. The cocktail menu changes seasonally as well, and the Moscow Mule has been a fan favorite over the years. With fall officially right around the corner, pumpkin spice latte fans should be ready to try a Pumpkin Moscow Mule at M&B. Their event space - affectionately called The Fairhaven - keeps them busy with rehearsal dinners, baby showers, retirement parties, office gatherings and everything in between!

What do they love most about being downtown?

“Watching the changes that the downtown landscape has experienced during our time at the corner of 3rd and Main has been remarkable - we're thrilled we could be part of that resurgence! We love contributing to the lively atmosphere and collaborating with fellow small businesses.”

What is the best way you can support this business?

During the shutdown, M&B was closed for nine weeks and dedicated its social media to #locallove - promoting fellow local businesses to try to spread positivity during a difficult time. They’ve adjusted their menu, hours, layout and so many other aspects of the business to comply with regulations and the ever-changing situation. They also have outdoor seating. When you go, make sure to document your experience and tag #SittinOnMain!

#WelcomeToDowntownDavenport #DowntownFrontPorchProject #QuadCitizensBehindTheBusinesses

About the Downtown Front Porch Project:

The Downtown Front Porch project is a way to get to know the humans behind the businesses in downtown Davenport. Featuring more than 40 organizations, the images and stories that will be shared are reflective of the energy, passion and resilience of the people that make downtown tick.

“As we all try to navigate a global pandemic, finding ways to connect with our neighbors is more important than ever,” stated Kyle Carter, Executive Director of DDP. “With a year of cancelled events and less foot traffic on the streets, it’s critical that we spend our dollars locally to support the people in our own community. Small, locally-owned businesses are at the center of what makes downtown a special place. This campaign is an opportunity to show the faces of hard-working Quad Citizens and ways the community can rally to support them.”

The goal of the Downtown Front Porch project is to remind people that downtown is vibrant, welcoming and open for business.