Our Story

About Davanni's

Davanni's has been a beloved name in the davannis community — crafting exceptional food experiences with passion, quality ingredients, and a deep love for bringing people together around great meals.

Davanni's kitchen team preparing fresh food
30+ Years of Flavor

How Davanni's Became a Local Legend

Davanni's was born from a simple idea: food should be made with care, served with warmth, and shared with joy.

What started as a small family kitchen in Plymouth, MN, has grown into one of the most recognized davannis destinations across the United States. Our founder believed that every plate should tell a story — a story of fresh ingredients sourced with intention, recipes perfected over generations, and a community gathered around a shared table.

Over the decades, Davanni's has stayed true to its roots while embracing new ideas and flavors. We've served hundreds of thousands of guests, catered countless celebrations, and earned a reputation as the go-to dining destination for anyone who takes great food seriously.

  • Founded on family recipes and community values
  • Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients every day
  • Hundreds of thousands of happy guests served
  • Consistent quality across every single dish
  • A welcoming place for families, friends, and food lovers
30+ Years in Business
500K+ Guests Served
4.9 Average Rating

Mission, Vision & Promise

Every decision at davanis is guided by our core purpose — to create moments of joy through exceptional food and genuine hospitality.

Our Mission

To craft food that nourishes the body and delights the senses — using the finest ingredients, time-honored techniques, and an unwavering commitment to taste and quality in every bite.

Our Vision

To be the most trusted and beloved food destination in the United States — a place where every guest feels at home, every meal is memorable, and every visit leaves you wanting to return.

Our Promise

We promise to never compromise on freshness, flavor, or service. Every dish leaving our kitchen reflects our personal commitment to excellence and the trust you place in the Davanni's name.

Our Core Values

These aren't just words on a wall — they're the principles that guide every decision, every dish, and every interaction at Davanni's.

Freshness First

We source our ingredients daily, working with local farmers and trusted suppliers to ensure every dish is as fresh as the morning it's prepared.

Made with Love

Cooking is an act of care. Every recipe at Davanni's is prepared by people who genuinely love food and are proud of what they put on your plate.

Community Rooted

Davanni's exists because of this community. We invest in local partnerships, sponsor neighborhood events, and treat every guest like a neighbor.

Uncompromising Quality

From the first bite to the last, quality is non-negotiable. We hold ourselves to the highest standards so you never have to wonder if Davanni's will deliver.

Meet Our Team

Davanni's is powered by passionate food lovers, dedicated professionals, and a crew that genuinely cares about every guest experience.

Marco DiVanni, Founder and Head Chef of Davanni's
Founder & Head Chef

Marco DiVanni

Marco founded Davanni's over 30 years ago with nothing but a family recipe book and a dream. His culinary philosophy — simple, honest, extraordinary — still drives everything we do.

Sofia Reyes, Executive Chef at Davanni's
Executive Chef

Sofia Reyes

With training from culinary institutions across Europe and North America, Sofia brings technical brilliance and creative flair to every Davanni's menu. She leads our kitchen with grace and precision.

James Park, Operations Manager at Davanni's
Operations Manager

James Park

James ensures every location runs like a well-oiled machine. His meticulous approach to service standards, supply chain, and team culture is the backbone of the Davanni's guest experience.

Anika Thompson, Community Director at Davanni's
Community Director

Anika Thompson

Anika is the heart of Davanni's community outreach. She manages local partnerships, catering events, and the guest loyalty program — ensuring Davanni's gives back as much as it receives.

The Davanni's Timeline

From a humble family kitchen to a beloved destination for davannis fans — here's how our story unfolded.

1993

The Beginning

Marco DiVanni opens the first Davanni's kitchen in Plymouth, MN, serving a handful of signature dishes from treasured family recipes. The local community falls in love from day one.

1998

Growing the Menu

After five years of consistent success and guest demand, Davanni's expands its menu significantly — introducing seasonal specials, catering options, and the now-legendary weekend brunch.

2004

First Recognition

Davanni's receives its first regional dining award, cementing its reputation as a top food destination in the United States. Media coverage drives a wave of new loyal guests.

2010

Catering & Events Launch

Responding to popular demand, Davanni's launches a full-service catering division — bringing our signature food quality to weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations across the region.

2016

Community Partnerships

Davanni's deepens its roots in the community by launching partnerships with local farms, launching a food sustainability initiative, and introducing the Davanni's Community Table — a monthly charity dinner.

2020

Adapting & Innovating

During challenging times, Davanni's pivots quickly — launching online ordering, contactless pickup, and a meal kit program that brings the Davanni's kitchen experience directly into guests' homes.

2024

Franchise Expansion

Davanni's officially launches its franchise program, opening the door for passionate food entrepreneurs across the United States to bring the davanis experience to their own communities.

Today

Still Growing, Still Delicious

Davanni's continues to evolve — with new menu innovations, a growing online presence, and the same commitment to quality that has defined the brand for over three decades. The best is still to come.

Experience Davanni's for Yourself

Every visit is a chance to become part of the Davanni's story. Browse our full menu and place your order today — we can't wait to welcome you.