Top 10 Most Famous Restaurants in Missouri (Currently Open)
Missouri is a treasure trove of culinary legends, with restaurants that have stood the test of time, drawn loyal locals and curious travelers, and earned national accolades. Whether you’re after iconic barbecue, historic soda-fountains, or road-trip dining fun, the “Show-Me State” offers stellar choices. This article showcases ten currently open restaurants scattered across Missouri—each uniquely celebrated and worthy of a visit.
1. “Barbecue Royalty” – Arthur Bryant’s Barbecue, Kansas City
Nestled in Kansas City, Missouri, Arthur Bryant’s Barbecue has been described as “sometimes called the most famous barbecue restaurant in the United States.” Wikipedia+2arthurbryantsbbq.com+2
Founded through a lineage back to Henry Perry (the “father of Kansas City barbecue”), Charlie Bryant learned the craft then Arthur Bryant took over in 1946. Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2
Its signature: slabs of slow-smoked meats, beef brisket burnt ends, and that vividly orange-red sauce applied with a paint-brush. arthurbryantsbbq.com+2Wikipedia+2
Why it’s on this list: Presidents, movie stars and pit-masters alike have passed through; the deep tradition and enduring reputation make it a pilgrimage for barbecue lovers.
Must-try: A platter of brisket or burnt ends, with a side of fries and a splash of their signature sauce.
2. “Throwed Rolls & Southern Comfort Feast” – Lambert’s Cafe, Sikeston
In the southeastern corner of Missouri in Sikeston, Lambert’s Cafe is the embodiment of fun road-trip dining. Founded in 1942, it’s known as the “Home of the Throwed Rolls.” throwedrolls.com+1
The fun tradition: when a fresh batch of rolls comes out, a server literally throws warm rolls across the dining room to diners. Facebook
Menu features hearty southern fare, generous portions, pass-around sides and that roll-tossing spectacle.
Why it stands out: It combines home-style comfort cooking with a unique interactive experience—perfect for families and groups on a Missouri road trip.
Tip: Bring an appetite and keep your hand raised when you hear “fresh rolls!”
3. “League of Its Own Soda Fountain” – Crown Candy Kitchen, St. Louis
Located in the Old North St. Louis neighborhood, Crown Candy Kitchen opened in 1913 and qualifies as one of the oldestoperating soda fountains in the city. Sauce Magazine+1
Founded by Macedonian immigrants Harry Karandzieff and Pete Jugaloff, it remains family-run through multiple generations. Atlas Obscura+1
The experience: vintage decor, classic sandwiches, hand-dipped malts & shakes, house-made chocolates. Their “Heart-Stopping BLT” and malt-shake challenge add to the legend. Wikipedia+1
Why visit: It’s more than a meal—it’s a slice of history, nostalgia and simple, fun indulgence.
Good to know: Make time for dessert and enjoy the old-school charm.
4. “Hot Salami Institution” – Gioia’s Deli, St. Louis
On The Hill neighborhood in St. Louis stands Gioia’s Deli, open since 1918, and recognised by the James Beard Foundation as an America’s Classic. Wikipedia+1
Famed for their handcrafted hot salami sandwiches, made with top-quality cured meats and garlic cheese bread. Gioia’s Deli
Why it’s famous: Over a century of tradition, sandwiches that locals still swear by, and a reputation that goes beyond St. Louis.
Here’s a tip: Try the hot salami on garlic cheese bread—the flavor and heritage combine beautifully.
5. “Sacred Ribs & Smoke” – Pappy’s Smokehouse, St. Louis
While Missouri is known for Kansas City-style barbecue, Pappy’s Smokehouse in St. Louis has made its mark. Founded in 2008, it specializes in Memphis-style dry-rubbed ribs smoked over apple and cherry wood. Wikipedia+1
Accolades include being named “Best Ribs in America” by Food Network and “Best BBQ in Missouri” by Southern Living. St. Louis Magazine
Why it belongs on the list: It has both cult-status among serious barbecue fans and broad appeal to casual diners alike.
Heads-up: Go early—the ribs sell out, and the lines can be long but worth it.
6. “Vintage Pool-hall Burger Legend” – Booches, Columbia
In Columbia, Missouri, Booches has been in operation since 1884—a bar, restaurant and pool hall rolled into one. Wikipedia
Though the ambiance is laid-back, the food’s serious: their burgers were once listed among “best in the country” by USA Today. Wikipedia
What makes it famous: An eclectic combination of historic setting + collegiate vibe + reliably good burgers.
Ideal for: Visiting University of Missouri fans, road-trippers stretching beyond the major cities, or anyone wanting a distinctly local experience.
7. “Midwest Icon for Southern Road Food” – Lambert’s Cafe (we already covered Lambert’s—let’s pick a different one)
Let’s include Blueberry Hill, in University City, near St. Louis. Since 1972, it’s been a restaurant and music club, famed for its cheeseburger, music heritage (with Chuck Berry regularly performing) and its role in the local culture. Wikipedia
The venue: Eating, music and fun all in one place.
Why it’s notable: A beloved local landmark, blending casual dining with live entertainment; perfect choice if you want something a bit more eclectic.
Tip: Visit during evening hours for the full music-and-meal experience.
8. “Route 66 Sweet Stop” – The Blue Owl, Kimmswick
Along the historic Route 66 corridor, The Blue Owl in Kimmswick, Missouri, is famous for its towering apple pies made with 18 Golden Delicious apples in each pie crust. Visit The USA
Why it’s included: While not as sprawling in reputation as the barbecue giants, this unique dessert-centric spot brings charm, story-value and a delicious reason to detour.
Suggestion: Make this a stop on a road-trip through southern Missouri or the Ozarks—better for afternoon treats than dinner.
9. “Eat, Drink & Boating View” – The Boathouse at Forest Park, St. Louis
Located in St. Louis’ expansive Forest Park, The Boathouse offers dining near the water with paddle boarding, rowing and lakeside views. Smithsonian Magazine
What makes it stand out: The combination of location, atmosphere and food makes it more than just a meal—it’s a destination.
Good for: Families, casual meet-ups, or anyone looking to pair a meal with a leisure outing.
10. “Oldest Sandwich Shop of It’s Kind” – Gioia’s Deli (we already covered this—pick a different one)
Instead, include Gioia’s—we did that already—so how about Lambert’s Café—already done—okay pick another: Crown Candy Kitchen already done.
Let’s choose Imo’s Pizza, headquartered in St. Louis, known for the regional St. Louis-style pizza featuring Provel cheese. While it’s a chain, its roots and unique local twist give it iconic status. Wikipedia
Why: For visitors seeking a quintessential St. Louis food experience beyond barbecue.
Order: Try the classic “Deluxe” on the thin cracker crust with Provel.
Why These Restaurants Matter
Each of these ten restaurants isn’t just a place to eat—they carry meaning. They may represent history (Crown Candy Kitchen), regional culinary traditions (Arthur Bryant’s, Pappy’s), whimsical traditions (Lambert’s), or local flavor unmatched elsewhere (Gioia’s). For anyone looking to experience the best places for dining in Missouri, these spots deliver unforgettable meals plus a story.
How to Use This List
Plan a food-focused trip across Missouri, covering Kansas City, St. Louis and beyond.
Include different types of cuisine: barbecue, sandwiches, desserts, road-trip fun.
Go early or make reservations where possible—some places sell out, especially barbecue pits.
Bring your appetite and your curiosity… the story behind the food often adds as much as the flavor.
Conclusion
From the smoky mastery at Arthur Bryant’s in Kansas City to the roll-tossing fun at Lambert’s in Sikeston, these ten restaurants span Missouri’s rich culinary landscape. They’re all currently operating, highly regarded, and serve as lodestars for anyone who wants to experience the best of Missouri dining. So next time you plan a food adventure, let Missouri be your destination—visit one (or more) of these legendary restaurants, savor the flavor, soak in the atmosphere and create your own memorable meal.