20 Unique Restaurants in Missouri: A Guide to the Show-Me State’s Quirkiest Kitchens

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Welcome to our guide on Missouri’s most unique restaurants, where unforgettable meals meet extraordinary vibes. From train-themed diners to ice cream spots serving wild, unexpected flavors, this journey through the Show-Me State is as fun as it is delicious. Get ready for eats where the food and atmosphere are equally unforgettable.

Missouri’s dining scene is full of surprises. Grab a BBQ feast at Kansas City’s Jack Stack Barbecue, or dive into seafood with Cajun flair at Broadway Oyster Bar in St. Louis. For something different, check out Blues City Deli for killer po’boys or breakfast with a side of punk rock at Goody Goody Diner. And don’t skip Lambert’s Café in Sikeston—their throwed rolls are iconic!

This Midwest gem is loaded with spots that serve creativity on every plate. Let’s dig in!

👉 Pro Tip: The Ozark Craft Beverage Tour in Branson is perfect for wine and moonshine lovers! You’ll sip on local creations, hear the stories behind them, and even get expert pairing tips. Don’t forget to grab a bottle or two to take home—it’s a tasty way to remember the experience!

Unique Restaurants in Missouri: 20 Incredible Missouri Eateries

Dive into Missouri’s unique restaurants, where brunch rocks out to metal bands and former gas stations serve gourmet meals. We’re exploring spots across the Show-Me State that turn dining into an unforgettable adventure!

1. Undercliff Grill & Bar

• 📍 Location: Tipton (Rural, near a cliffside)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Burgers / Bar Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Cliffside setting, rustic dive bar atmosphere, classic American comfort food.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Roadside explorers, casual bites with a view, and fans of quirky local spots.

Get ready for a dining experience that truly rocks at Undercliff Grill & Bar! This legendary spot near Tipton is literally built into the side of a rock cliff, making it one of the most unique places to grab a bite in Missouri. The vibe is pure rustic dive bar charm.

Chowing down on one of their juicy Undercliff Burgers, a classic patty with all the fixings, is a wise choice. Also popular are their crispy fried mushrooms or the hearty pork tenderloin sandwich. It’s a trek, but the quirky atmosphere makes it an unforgettable adventure.

2. The Fountain on Locust

This art deco gem in St. Louis doesn’t just look like something out of a 1920s dream – it backs it up with killer food and drinks. Famed for their house-made ice cream martinis (seriously, the “Chocolate Covered Almond” will haunt my dreams) and retro soda fountain fare, it’s impossible not to feel glam here. Come for a loaded grilled cheese or their award-winning soups, and leave room for the dazzling sundaes. The hand-painted mural walls and gold-and-turquoise bar make for Insta-worthy pics. Take a local tip and split an adult float with friends. Steps away from the Fox Theatre, it’s perfect for pre-show bites or a late-night treat. I ended up staying way longer than planned just soaking in the vibe.

3. Osage Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Ridgedale (Top of the Rock, Big Cedar Lodge)
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $100+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Upscale American / Regional Ozark Cuisine
• 🔥 Standout Features: Sweeping Ozark views, rustic-elegant decor, regional upscale cuisine.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Special occasions, sunset dinners, and upscale lodge dining.

Prepare for a meal that will elevate your senses at Osage Restaurant, perched atop Top of the Rock at Big Cedar Lodge. The panoramic views of the Ozark Mountains and Table Rock Lake are jaw-dropping, especially at sunset. The stunning rustic-elegant lodge decor creates an unforgettable ambiance.

The menu features upscale American cuisine with a focus on regional Ozark ingredients. Consider their perfectly cooked filet mignon, fresh pan-seared Missouri trout, or the flavorful Heritage pork chop. It’s a true destination dining experience.

• Read Next: 12 Stunning Places in the Ozarks You Have to See to Believe

4. The Savoy

If you want a real taste of Kansas City history, The Savoy is where it’s at. This spot has been kicking since 1903, but its moody, candlelit dining rooms feel effortlessly modern. Expect incredible steaks (the ribeye is a must, hands down) and creative cocktails that pay homage to the building’s storied past. There’s a sense you’re dining somewhere legendary – check the gorgeous historic murals and classic black-and-white tile floors. Their brunch is low-key chaos, in the best way. It’s right inside the 21c Museum Hotel, so you’ll find contemporary art steps from your table. It’s classy, but never stuffy – I felt like a Kansas City insider by the end of the night.

5. Flyover

• 📍 Location: Columbia
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Midwestern / Farm-to-Table / Eclectic
• 🔥 Standout Features: Midwestern ingredients, seasonal farm-to-table dishes, sleek modern vibe.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Local food lovers, creative regional cuisine, and stylish nights out.

Get ready to rethink “flyover country” cuisine at Flyover in Columbia! This stylish spot celebrates Missouri and the broader Midwest, showcasing incredible ingredients and culinary traditions with a creative, modern twist. The atmosphere is contemporary and cool.

You’ll be pleased with their inventive, seasonal dishes that highlight local farms. Think smoked Missouri trout dip with house-made crackers, a fantastic pork steak with seasonal accompaniments, or their creative gnocchi with local mushrooms. Their craft cocktails are also worth exploring.

6. Café Cusco

Located in Springfield’s historic Commercial Street district, Café Cusco is where Peruvian eats meet Ozark charm. Expect wild colors, hand-painted murals, and a cozy bohemian atmosphere (look up for the lanterns!). Standouts include the lomo saltado (stir-fried steak with fries, eggs, and rice – super filling) and their insanely fresh ceviche that’s bracing in the best way. Tons of vegan and gluten-free options. There’s a sweet covered patio for people-watching, and Commercial Street’s shops and galleries are just around the corner. I was honestly surprised by how vibrant and adventurous the menu is – rare for the Midwest.

7. Lambert’s Cafe

• 📍 Location: Sikeston & Ozark (+ Foley, AL)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Southern / American Comfort Food / Home of “Throwed Rolls”
• 🔥 Standout Features: “Throwed rolls” tradition, massive Southern portions, high-energy dining.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Family fun, comfort food fans, and one-of-a-kind dining experiences.

Heads up! Get ready to catch your dinner at Lambert’s Cafe, the legendary “Home of Throwed Rolls”! This Missouri institution is famous for its lively atmosphere where servers literally throw warm, fluffy dinner rolls. The portions of classic Southern comfort food are absolutely massive.

Besides the throwed rolls, you should try their famous fried chicken, country ham with white gravy, or the “pass-arounds” like fried okra, macaroni and tomatoes, and black-eyed peas. Come hungry and ready for action. It’s loud, a little wild, and an absolute blast!

8. The Shaved Duck Smokehouse

This St. Louis joint may sound classic barbecue, but the vibe is more “comfy neighborhood hangout” than rib-shack – reclaimed wood, string lights, and killer blues bands turn every evening into a party. The brisket burnt ends are smoky little miracles, and the duck confit sliders will ruin you for ordinary barbecue. Wash it all down with a local beer and wait for the live tunes to kick in. Tower Grove Park is just a short stroll away if you need to walk off your feast. I can’t remember ever having barbecue this creative or this laid-back.

9. Kehde’s Barbeque

• 📍 Location: Sedalia
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Barbecue / American
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic train car setting, Missouri-style BBQ, nostalgic diner vibe.
• 🎯 Perfect For: BBQ lovers, train buffs, and casual hometown eats.

All aboard the flavor train at Kehde’s Barbeque in Sedalia! This unique spot serves delicious, classic Missouri-style barbecue inside a historic railroad dining car, offering a wonderfully nostalgic and fun atmosphere. The aroma of slow-smoked meats fills the vintage train car.

For a true taste of their offerings, ordering a plate of their tender pulled pork or some saucy ribs is a good plan. Their brisket sandwich with a side of coleslaw is also a fantastic choice. It’s a delightful and delicious journey back in time.

10. Urban Chestnut Hallertau Brewery

You haven’t really experienced St. Louis beer unless you’ve settled into Urban Chestnut’s epic beer hall. Modeled after classic Bavarian biergartens but with a St. Louis twist, the place buzzes with energy – picnic tables, exposed brick, and huge windows. Their flagship Zwickel beer is crisp and shockingly refreshing, great with a hot Bavarian-style pretzel. Don’t skip the schnitzel if you see it on the menu, either. There’s often live music, and dogs are welcome outside. It’s in the Grove, so you’re surrounded by quirky bars and locally loved murals. I came for the beer and ended up with a list of murals to see afterward.

11. Blueberry Hill

• 📍 Location: St. Louis (Delmar Loop)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Pub Grub / Eclectic
• 🔥 Standout Features: Pop culture memorabilia, live music, legendary burgers.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Music fans, casual hangouts, and St. Louis history buffs.

Get ready to rock ‘n’ roll at Blueberry Hill, an absolute St. Louis icon in the Delmar Loop! This place is a vibrant explosion of pop culture memorabilia and a legendary live music venue. The menu is packed with classic American pub grub.

Grabbing one of their famous burgers, like the classic “Blueberry Hill Burger,” is a wise choice. Also popular are their toasted ravioli, a St. Louis specialty, or a hearty Reuben sandwich. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a museum of cool and a fantastic place to hang out.

• Read Next: 12 Scenic Spots in Missouri You Need to See

12. Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes

Springfield’s Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes is your go-to for seriously unhinged comfort food. The “Cowboy Carl” burger with onion rings and barbecue sauce hits like a flavor bomb, but their creative shakes (the “Springfield Cashew Craze” will convert you if you’ve never tried cashew chicken) are what really stand out. Expect lots of retro vibes – neon, comic-book murals, and funky tunes that’ll make you want to linger. Don’t leave without splitting an order of their Nutella fries. If you’re shopping downtown, it’s only a couple blocks from the bustling Farmer’s Market. This place is pure fun, and you can taste it in every bite.

13. White Rose Cafe

• 📍 Location: Union
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Diner / Breakfast & Lunch
• 🔥 Standout Features: Tiny retro diner, classic greasy spoon fare, historic local charm.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Breakfast lovers, vintage diner fans, and budget-friendly meals.

Step back into a bygone era at White Rose Cafe in Union. This tiny, unassuming “slinger” is a true gem, serving no-frills, delicious greasy spoon fare with an authentic old-school vibe. The sizzle of burgers on the flat-top is pure comfort.

Trying their classic cheeseburger, often served with grilled onions, is a must. For breakfast, a hearty slinger (a local dish with eggs, hashbrowns, chili, and cheese) or a simple bacon and egg sandwich will hit the spot. It’s wonderfully unpretentious.

14. Carnivore STL

If you’re a carnivore by name and nature, Carnivore STL was designed for you. Tucked in St. Louis’s Hill neighborhood, this spot has a rustic-chic steakhouse vibe – leather banquettes, exposed brick, old Soul and Motown tunes. Their tomahawk is legendary (it’s shareable and very Instagrammable), but don’t sleep on their weekday burger specials. The craft cocktail list leans heavy on whiskey. After dinner, stroll the nearby Italian bakeries of The Hill. I loved the balance here: high-quality, big-portion meats without any snobbery.

15. Branson Pasghetti’s Italian Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Branson
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Italian-American / Themed
• 🔥 Standout Features: Giant fork-and-meatball sculpture, playful NYC-themed interior, kid-friendly Italian food.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Family dinners, fun dining with kids, and Branson tourists.

Get ready for a “meatball” of a good time at Branson Pasghetti’s Italian Restaurant! You can’t miss the giant meatball with a fork out front! Inside, find a fun, kitschy Italian-American restaurant themed like a New York City street. The menu is packed with family-friendly classics.

You’ll be delighted by their hearty spaghetti and meatballs (of course!). Other popular choices include a cheesy lasagna, a classic chicken parmigiana, or their Pasghetti’s Sampler Platter. It’s a playful, over-the-top spot perfect for a fun family dinner.

• Read Next: Branson, Missouri Adventures: 12 Must-See Things to Do and Enjoy

16. Sasha’s on Shaw

If you love wine, Sasha’s on Shaw in St. Louis needs to be on your radar. Picture a Mediterranean-inspired patio covered in ivy, mismatched chairs, and a fireplace inside for chilly nights. Their cheese and charcuterie boards are major crowd-pleasers, and the wood-fired pizzas (especially the fig and prosciutto) always disappear from the table. The wine list is huge, and staff will steer you toward something new if you ask. A super friendly, eclectic crowd makes it easy to linger. You’re literally steps from the Missouri Botanical Garden, so stop in after an afternoon among the roses. I could sip here all day.

17. The Crow’s Nest

• 📍 Location: St. Louis (Maplewood)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Dive Bar / Metal Bar / Eclectic Comfort Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Metal dive bar theme, creative comfort food, relaxed neighborhood feel.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Metalheads, dive bar regulars, and comfort food with an edge.

Rock out with your fork out at The Crow’s Nest in Maplewood! This beloved St. Louis dive bar is a haven for heavy metal fans, with a killer jukebox and a laid-back vibe. But don’t let the edgy exterior fool you – they serve surprisingly delicious and creative comfort food.

Consider trying their famous Metal Gumbo, a hearty and spicy delight. Their inventive burgers, like the “Slayer” with ghost pepper cheese, or the comforting mac and cheese with various toppings are also big hits. It’s where you can headbang and chow down.

18. Boudreaux’s Louisiana Seafood & Steaks

• 📍 Location: St. Louis (Soulard) & other locations
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Cajun / Creole / Seafood & Steaks
• 🔥 Standout Features: Cajun-Creole flavors, festive New Orleans-style setting, live music.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Spicy food fans, festive nights out, and Louisiana-style dining.

Laissez les bons temps rouler at Boudreaux’s Louisiana Seafood & Steaks! This spot brings the vibrant spirit and incredible flavors of Louisiana to Missouri. The atmosphere is lively and New Orleans-inspired, often with live music. The air is rich with Cajun spices.

Ordering their classic gumbo ya-ya, rich and dark, is a great idea. Also highly recommended are their perfectly seasoned blackened redfish, or the creamy crawfish étouffée. It’s a true taste of the Bayou State that will transport you straight to the French Quarter.

19. Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream

• 📍 Location: Columbia
• 💲 Price range: $5 – $15 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Ice Cream Parlor / Homemade Ice Cream
• 🔥 Standout Features: Wild and quirky flavors, retro vibe, local Columbia favorite.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Ice cream adventurers, sweet treat seekers, and curious foodies.

Get ready for an ice cream adventure at Sparky’s in Columbia! This legendary local ice cream parlor is famous for its incredibly creative and often wonderfully bizarre homemade ice cream flavors. They’re known for pushing boundaries with concoctions like lavender honey.

Being brave and trying one of their unique specialty flavors is part of the fun – the sweet corn ice cream or goat cheese and berry are surprisingly popular. For something more traditional, their dark chocolate or vanilla bean are excellent. It’s a Columbia institution.

20. Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Kansas City (Multiple KS & MO locations, including Crown Center in KCMO)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Diner / Kid-Friendly
• 🔥 Standout Features: Food delivered by model train, family-friendly theme, diner classics.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Kids, train lovers, and playful, casual family meals.

All aboard for a meal delivered with a delightful choo-choo at Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant! This unique diner is an absolute delight for kids. Your burgers, fries, and milkshakes are delivered right to your table by a charming overhead model train system.

Little faces light up as their cheeseburger and fries chug their way to them. Other kid-friendly favorites include chicken tenders or a classic grilled cheese. It’s a super fun, playful, and utterly charming spot for a casual family meal.

• Read Next: The Ultimate Kansas Travel Guide: 12 Cool Attractions to Explore

Frequently Asked Questions About the Unique Places to Eat in Missouri

Looking for tips on where to eat in Missouri? Our FAQ section, part of the Missouri restaurant guide, is here to help enhance your dining adventures.

What is Missouri known for as far as food?

Missouri is a melting pot of flavors, known for its barbecue, especially in Kansas City and St. Louis. The state takes pride in its slow-cooked meats with rich, tangy sauces. Besides barbecue, Missouri loves its comfort foods. Think hearty stews, fried chicken, and home-style sides. Don’t forget about St. Louis-style pizza, with its thin crust and Provel cheese, a true local favorite.

What food was invented in Springfield, MO?

Springfield, MO, gave the world the deliciously unique Springfield-style cashew chicken. This dish is a twist on traditional Chinese cashew chicken. It features breaded and fried chicken pieces covered in a thick, savory oyster sauce, then topped with cashews and green onions. It’s a must-try comfort food that perfectly blends American and Asian cuisines.

What food is only found in St. Louis?

St. Louis boasts several unique foods, but the gooey butter cake stands out. This sweet, rich cake has a bottom layer of buttery, yellow cake and a top layer of creamy filling, often dusted with powdered sugar. It’s a decadent treat that originated in the 1930s. Another exclusive is the St. Louis-style ribs, known for their distinctive cut and barbecue method, often found in restaurants in St. Louis, MO.

Where can I find cheap eats in Missouri?

For cheap eats in MO, look no further than local diners, food trucks, and farmers’ markets. Cities like Kansas City, St. Louis, and Columbia are filled with spots offering delicious meals without breaking the bank. From savory barbecue joints to cozy cafes serving up homemade pies and sandwiches, Missouri has plenty of options for budget-friendly dining that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

What are some fine dining options in Missouri?

Fine dining in Missouri is diverse, with options ranging from upscale steakhouses to innovative farm-to-table restaurants. St. Louis and Kansas City are hotspots for gourmet dining, offering everything from sophisticated French cuisine to modern American dishes. For a memorable experience, look for restaurants that pair exquisite meals with stunning views or unique historical settings.

Can you recommend any hidden gem restaurants in Missouri?

Missouri is full of hidden gem restaurants tucked away in small towns or off the beaten path. These spots often serve up some of the most authentic and delicious dishes. Look for family-owned diners, historic taverns, and quaint bistros that locals love. These hidden gems offer a taste of Missouri’s diverse tastes, from traditional German fare in Hermann to fresh, lake-caught fish in the Ozarks.

What makes unique restaurants in Missouri for dinner special?

Unique restaurants in Missouri for dinner stand out for their one-of-a-kind dining experiences. Whether it’s dining in a converted train car, enjoying a meal in a historic building, or tasting innovative dishes that blend different culinary traditions, these restaurants make dinner memorable. They offer not just a meal but an adventure, combining delicious food with extraordinary settings or themes.

How do I find the best local cuisine when visiting Missouri?

To discover the best local cuisine in MO, start by asking locals for their recommendations. Explore regional farmers’ markets, where you can taste fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. Check out food festivals and culinary events that showcase Missouri’s diverse food scene. Don’t be afraid to venture into small towns or rural areas, where many hidden culinary treasures await.

Final Thoughts On Unique Missouri Restaurants

We hope you enjoyed exploring the flavors and stories behind some of the most interesting places to eat in the Show-Me State with our Missouri restaurant guide. From classic comfort foods to unique dining experiences, Missouri has something to satisfy every palate.

Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these spots are sure to leave you with delicious memories, perfectly embodying Midwest charm. So next time you’re wondering where to eat in Missouri, remember the gems we’ve shared. Happy eating, and may your adventures in Missouri be as tasty as they are unforgettable!