10 Missouri Dining Spots Locals Swear Are Worth Every Penny

Missouri has some seriously delicious food hiding in plain sight. From smoky barbecue joints to cozy diners serving up comfort food, locals know exactly where to go when they want a meal that hits the spot.

I’m sharing ten places across the state that people rave about, and trust me, every bite is worth your hard-earned cash.

1. Booche’s Billiard Hall in Columbia

Since 1884, this place has been flipping burgers and serving cold drinks to hungry customers. The wood-paneled walls and vintage pool tables give it character you just can’t fake.

Their cheeseburgers are simple but absolutely perfect—juicy patties with melted cheese on soft buns. College students and longtime residents sit side by side, all united by their love of good food. You might come for the nostalgia, but you’ll return because nothing beats a Booche’s burger.

2. Lambert’s Cafe in Ozark

Ever had your dinner roll delivered via airmail? That’s just a normal Tuesday at this quirky roadside restaurant known as the Home of Throwed Rolls.

Servers literally toss hot rolls across the dining room, and catching one is part of the fun. The portions are massive, with fried chicken, country-fried steak, and all the Southern sides you can imagine. They bring around free pass-arounds like fried okra and sorghum molasses while you eat your main course.

3. Amighetti’s Bakery & Cafe in St. Louis

Family recipes from the old country still guide every sandwich made at this beloved Italian bakery. The smell of fresh-baked bread hits you the moment you walk through the door, making your stomach growl instantly.

Their special sandwich piles high with salami, ham, and cheese, then gets topped with their signature garlic spread. Locals have been ordering the same thing for decades because why mess with perfection? The bread alone is worth the trip across town.

4. Big Whiskey’s American Restaurant & Bar in Springfield

Sports on TV, cold drinks in hand, and food that makes you want to high-five the chef—that’s the vibe here. Their wings come in flavors that range from sweet to face-melting spicy, so there’s something for everyone.

The loaded tots are basically a meal by themselves, smothered in cheese, bacon, and all the good stuff. Friends gather here after work, families celebrate birthdays, and everyone leaves happier than when they arrived. The atmosphere is relaxed but the flavor game is serious.

5. Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque in Kansas City

Walking into this legendary spot feels like stepping back in time to when barbecue was king. You’ll smell the hickory smoke before you even reach the door, and that’s when you know something special is waiting inside.

Their burnt ends are what dreams are made of—crispy, tender, and covered in that famous tangy sauce. Presidents and celebrities have eaten here, but regular folks keep coming back because the food speaks for itself. The no-frills atmosphere just makes everything taste even better.

6. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken in St. Louis

Originally from Memphis, this fried chicken spot has won over St. Louis hearts one crispy piece at a time. The secret recipe creates a crunchy coating with just enough kick to keep things interesting without burning your taste buds off.

Each piece is fried to order, so you know it’s coming out hot and fresh. The sides are solid comfort food—baked beans, coleslaw, and mac and cheese that tastes like grandma made it. Be warned: this chicken is addictive.

7. Pappy’s Smokehouse in St. Louis

Lines stretch around the block here, and nobody complains about waiting. That’s because once you taste those Memphis-style ribs, you’ll understand why patience is a virtue.

They smoke their meats low and slow until they practically fall apart when you look at them. The sweet potato fries are criminally good too, perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. Locals will tell you to arrive early or risk missing out when they sell out for the day.

8. Shakespeare’s Pizza in Columbia

College students practically live off this pizza, and for good reason—it’s that good. Thick crust holds mountains of toppings without getting soggy, and the cheese stretches for days when you take a slice.

The Masterpiece pizza lives up to its name with Italian sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, and more piled high. Even after graduation, people drive back to Columbia just to grab a Shakespeare’s pizza. The casual atmosphere and reasonable prices make it accessible for everyone, not just broke students.

9. Crown Candy Kitchen in St. Louis

Step inside and suddenly you’re in the 1900s, complete with an old-fashioned soda fountain and candy counter. Five generations have kept this sweet spot running, serving malts, sundaes, and classic diner food.

Their BLT is stacked ridiculously high with bacon—like, an entire pound of bacon on one sandwich. Save room for a malt though, because they’re thick, creamy, and made the traditional way. Kids press their noses against the candy cases while parents relive childhood memories.

10. Sugarfire Smoke House in St. Louis

Forget everything you think you know about traditional barbecue because these folks like to get creative. Their menu changes constantly, featuring wild combinations like barbecue nachos and burnt end tacos that somehow just work.

The brisket is smoky perfection, and their sauce selection ranges from vinegar-based to sweet and sticky. They’ve expanded across Missouri because word spread fast about how good this place is. Even barbecue purists admit that innovation can taste pretty darn amazing.