A spectacular dining experience awaits you in Branson.
With diverse offerings, these restaurants can appease your taste buds with classic favorites and foreign dishes.
And, since you’re in the Live Music Capital of the World, you can even look forward to fancy dinner shows.
Is it challenging to pick what restaurant to choose?
Don’t fret.
As a food lover and travel writer, I have visited several dining places to acquaint myself with the local food scene.
That’s why you can count on me for some valuable insights to get you started.
I have assessed these restaurants based on various factors to give you an idea about what to expect when you come.
From taste to accessibility, I’ve ranked these places to give you a quick overview of the best restaurants in Branson.
So, read on to discover where to get an epic culinary adventure in the area.
Best Restaurants In Branson Compared
Be it live music or dinner shows, the finest restaurants in Branson have different ways to entice travelers who want a unique food trip. Here is a rundown of our top choices for you to consider.
Editor’s Choice
Dobyns Dining Room at the Keeter Center
Dobyns Dining Room is an award-winning restaurant based at the Keeter Center in the University of Ozarks.
- Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
- Service: 5/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
#2nd Best Choice
Pickin Porch Grill
Set in the Branson Craft Mall, Pickin Porch Grill ranks as one of the go-to places for burger lovers in the city.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: 4.5/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
#3rd Best Choice
Rocco’s NY Style Pizza by Mama D’s House
Rocco’s NY Style Pizza is a family-owned pizzeria that has been serving the Branson area for years.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 5/5
- Affordability: 5/5
- Accessibility: 4.5/5
Here are the top 15 Branson restaurants open right now.
1. Dobyns Dining Room at the Keeter Center (Editor’s Choice)
1 Opportunity Ave.
Point Lookout, MO 65726
(417) 239-1900
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Dobyns Dining Room is an award-winning restaurant based at the Keeter Center in the University of Ozarks.
It’s a fully student-run facility that offers lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
- Service: 5/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
Pros
- Farm-to-table style
- Friendly service
Cons
- Crowded during peak times
Why It Made The List
Be amazed at the prowess of students in providing top-notch services as professionals do.
Fresh products are available as the contemporary casual eatery has a farm-to-table dining system.
It can even be on par with other places providing fine dining in Branson.
Plus, this place opens as one of the best birthday restaurants in Branson and its neighboring areas, especially when you’re with your immediate family.
Popular Dishes to Try
Pasta lovers must try the barbecue mac with hickory-smoked pork and oozing gouda cheese sauce for a tasteful meal.
Another great option is the chicken and smoked mushroom alfredo.
Pair it with the chef’s hand-crafted soup that varies per day.
If you’re a veggie, have a plate of the house harvest salad consisting of fresh harvest from the school, such as tomatoes, lettuce, cranberries, and almonds.
2. Pickin Porch Grill
694 Hwy 165
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 334-1223
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Set in the Branson Craft Mall, Pickin Porch Grill ranks as one of the go-to places for burger lovers in the city.
It also displays artworks created by artisans from all over the United States.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: 4.5/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Features live music
- Generous serving
Cons
- Limited seating
Why It Made The List
Pickin Porch Grill is one of the local restaurants that will introduce you to the favorite food of Branson citizens.
True to the city’s identity, this famous diner also hosts live musical performances on select days to keep you entertained.
It’s also a great spot to take a break if you’re done shopping for artsy stuff all around the mall.
Popular Dishes to Try
Stick to the Anaheim Burger to taste one of the people’s classic favorites.
It’s stuffed with charbroiled Angus, peppers, grilled onions, lettuce, avocado, chipotle lime aioli, and cheese.
Those who prefer a bit of spice would love the chorizo burger with candied jalapeños.
Here for the specialty sandwich?
Try their pulled pork sandwich for a lasting barbecue flavor.
3. Rocco’s NY Style Pizza by Mama D’s House
2722 State Hwy 248
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 544-0206
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Rocco’s NY Style Pizza is a family-owned pizzeria that has been serving the Branson area for years.
It has a good location right next to the highway and about four miles from downtown.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 5/5
- Affordability: 5/5
- Accessibility: 4.5/5
Pros
- Gluten-free pies are available
- Homey ambiance
Cons
- Small space
Why It Made The List
Locals and foreigners alike have given high praises to this fast-food eatery due to its amazing pizza and pasta.
It uses homemade dough and fresh produce to create its iconic offerings.
With its passion, this pizzeria counts as one of the good restaurants in Branson.
You’d love its modern look and tidy setup indoors that would surely remind you of home.
Popular Dishes to Try
If you want to try the local favorite, make sure to order the rancho romano pizza which is made with homemade ranch, fresh mushroom, tomato, spinach, and garlic.
Guests who want to have the classics can choose anything from cheese, Hawaiian, or Margherita flavors.
Any foodie shouldn’t skip Mama D’s special homemade lasagna to taste the best food in Branson.
No matter how many times you’ve tried lasagna before, this one will still stand out.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: French Quarter Resort
Also See:
Best Restaurants in Kansas City
Best Restaurants in St Louis, MO
Best Restaurants in Joplin
4. Hungry Hunter Restaurant
5753 State Hwy 165
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 332-3663
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The Hungry Restaurant is another classic American eatery secluded in Table Rock State Park.
It stands within walking distance from the Branson Stagecoach Campground.
Why It Made The List
Hungry Hunter Restaurant can be an ideal alternative to Dobyns Dining Room and Pickin Porch Grill if you love breakfast all day.
Hungry Hunter Restaurant adopts a casual diner style that’s perfect for families looking for a place to eat in the park.
It’s one of the best places that people visit for breakfast in Branson.
Not a morning person?
That won’t be a problem at all since this restaurant serves these meals even until lunchtime.
Heavy eaters would also appreciate the large food servings in this classic Branson dining facility.
Make sure to prepare your tummy for an awesome food adventure.
Popular Dishes to Try
Start your day with a half-pound of chopped Black Angus ground beef with three eggs for full energy.
Trust me, you will need it if you plan to spend the day hiking, kayaking, or fishing in Table Rock State Park.
Your energy won’t run out easily with this.
If you’re arriving at noon, then don’t forget to order the homemade soup kettle.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Palace View Resort by Spinnaker
5. India Clay Oven
2005 76 Country Blvd.
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 973-0044
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Built in 2012, India Clay Oven specializes in Punjabi-style cooking that is widely acclaimed for its rich and buttery flavor.
This restaurant offers vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free food options.
Why It Made The List
Have a taste of the Indian cuisine through the sumptuous offerings here at the India Clay Oven.
In this casual place, you can customize your meals since the dishes are cooked right on the table, allowing you to mix-and-match vegetables, meats, and sauces.
With its comfortable atmosphere, this place can easily prove why it’s one of the best-rated restaurants in Branson.
Popular Dishes to Try
Have an appetizing vegetable samosa filled with potatoes and green peas to begin your meal.
Order their chicken tikka masala for the main course to taste flavorful meat mixed with tomato, onion, and butter sauce.
You may also get the chili chicken if you want a spicy taste.
Complete your best lunch in Branson with vegetable biryani or a rice meal mixed with various Indian spices.
It also comes with a traditional Raita soup which you’d most definitely love.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel
6. Danna’s Bar-B-Que & Burger Shop
963 St. Hwy 165
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 337-5527
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Known as a classic favorite, Danna’s BBQ and Burger Shop is a family-owned diner that serves old-fashioned barbeque.
It has another location around 11 miles away in West Branson.
Why It Made The List
Who would ever say no to any of the top Branson restaurants?
Danna’s BBQ and Burger Shop is the legendary place where you can get local’s favorite burgers.
It smokes the beef and pork they serve for around 12 to 14 hours overnight to achieve a savory flavor.
It’s certainly one of those casual spots to eat where you would be tempted to try every single item on the menu.
Popular Dishes to Try
Order the smoked pit plate to taste chopped beef, chicken, pulled pork, smoked sausage, and ribs all in one!
This plate also comes with Memphis rolls. It’s perfect for sharing with a friend.
Another fan favorite in this place is the Big Big Pig sandwich—a garlic Texas toast stuffed with seven ounces of pork in the middle.
Maximize them all while you’re here in Branson!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa and Convention Center
Related: Fun Things to Do in Branson at Night
7. Mitsu Neko Fusion Cuisine and Sushi Bar
1819 W 76 Country Blvd.
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 336-1819
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Established in 2013, Mitsu Neko is one of the trendiest places to dine in Branson as it sports an eclectic indoor theme.
Its owner and head chef finished a master’s degree in Japanese Studies.
Why It Made The List
Do you love Japanese food? If so, then there’s no better place for you to go than Mitsu Neko.
Aside from sushi, this restaurant also offers nigiri and other fusion entrees that will impress you very well.
Mitsu Neko likewise opens a Happy Hour from Monday to Saturday to give you discounted beers, be it imported or local.
Popular Dishes to Try
Flare up your appetite with Takoyaki to excite your taste buds.
For the sushi starters, pick the sashimi sampler to taste the fresh dish that the chef has especially prepared for you.
Add some more seafood for the main course to fill your tummy with lobster, scallops, and shrimp.
It comes with a bonus miso soup, but you can order spicy ramen if this is the soup you prefer more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Crowne Resort by Capital Vacations
Related: Best Things to Do in Branson
8. Big D’s BBQ Branson
1550 State Hwy 248
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 337-5100
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Big D’s BBQ started as a food truck roaming around Branson in 2017.
It only took a year before the owners opened a brick-and-mortar restaurant on the site where the Starlite Theater once stood.
Why It Made The List
Still finding more places where to eat in Branson?
Consider adding this young yet iconic diner to your list.
It was hailed as the top barbeque place in the Best of Branson awards for four straight years, so there’s no way this restaurant will disappoint you.
Its slow-cooked meats, which take 14 hours to finish, would leave a unique taste you would come back for.
Popular Dishes to Try
Try their Memphis-style baby back ribs to discover how sumptuous the meat and their blended seasonings are.
You’d also love the Texas-style brisket that uses certified Angus beef.
Special food items off-the-menu also await you so better check their social media before ordering.
Of course, you should never miss the homemade salted caramel banana pudding to balance out the flavors in your meal.
Trust me, this can be among the best dinner places in Branson you’d love.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott’s Willow Ridge Lodge
Also See:
Restaurants in Chesterfield
Lee’s Summit Restaurants
Places to Eat in Carthage
9. Billy Gail’s – Branson
5921 State Hwy 265
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 338-8883
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Opened in 1995, Billy Gail’s is a family-friendly diner serving tasty and gargantuan food from morning until lunchtime.
It adopts a rustic theme in a quaint location in Branson.
Why It Made The List
Billy Gail’s is one of the superb eateries that will lure you in through its amazing design, impeccable services, and gigantic serving.
It’s widely known for providing large food portions you won’t easily find elsewhere.
That’s why it’s one of the best places to eat in Branson.
Tourists out on camping either in Tall Pines or Silver Dollar City wouldn’t regret coming here.
Both campsites are located just within a five-minute walk from this place.
Popular Dishes to Try
Up for some heavy meal?
Order the scrumptious Billy Belly’s Buster specialty dish that features eggs, vanilla pancakes, meat, and bread.
Hash browns are added on the side.
Never skip their enormous 14” pancake to taste how much food your tummy can take in the morning.
One more classic you shouldn’t skip is the billion-dollar bacon to taste a sweet and smoky taste.
It will surely blow you away.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lodge of the Ozarks
10. Drafts Sports Grill
2280 Shepherd of the Hills Expy
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 320-6045
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A modern property, Drafts Sports Bar & Grill is located in the high-end Westgate Branson Woods Resort.
It’s part of a popular chain that was originally founded in August 2013.
Why It Made The List
Are you a sports fan?
Well, you’ve just come to one of the most ideal restaurants near you.
Apart from the awesome food, this place offers a vibrant space where you can hang out with your friends to chill out and watch jaw-dropping sports events together—from basketball, football, baseball, to hockey.
You’ll enjoy your food more with good company and a nice vibe.
Popular Dishes to Try
Pick the handcrafted icon, Drafts Famous Burger, that has a double quarter-pound beef patty with lettuce, tomato, onions, and cheese.
You can also add smoked bacon as well if you want more ingredients.
Pair it with a cold glass of beer to complete the sports viewing experience.
Taste their mouthwatering barbecue pulled pork platter if you haven’t satisfied your cravings just yet.
Share the experience with your buddies.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Westgate Branson Woods Resort
Related: Things to Do in Branson with Kids
11. The Paddlewheel
9 S, N Boardwalk
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 239-1324
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Built in 2013, the Paddlewheel is a unique floating restaurant set on Lake Taneycomo at the Main Street Marina.
It is established as a property fully owned and operated by Branson locals.
Why It Made The List
No one can contest that the Paddlewheel is one of the coolest nightclubs in Branson.
Witness the great live musical performances and open mic nights here mostly during the weekend.
Your trip to Branson won’t be complete without these shows at one of the best restaurants downtown.
It’s also a friendly dining facility with plenty of spaces where you can enjoy—by the firepit or in the indoor theater room full of games.
Everywhere, there’s a picturesque scene waiting for you.
Popular Dishes to Try
Keep your stomach full by ordering their perfect chicken sandwich.
It features a six-ounce chicken breast packed with bacon, provolone cheese, honey mustard, and veggies.
As an alternative, there’s also a house salad for those who want to stick to healthier food.
Sip their signature cocktail known as the captain’s punch to taste a mix of the Cruzan Coconut Rum and Captain Marzan, coupled with cranberry and pineapple juices.
Try requesting your favorite mix, too!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Promenade Branson Landing
12. Pasghettis Italian Restaurant
3129 W State Hwy 76
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 335-0690
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Pasghettis Italian Restaurant, launched in 2015, is one of the most extraordinary Branson eats.
It attracts people’s attention because of its large meatball and fork structure that serves as your gateway into the place.
Why It Made The List
It’s difficult to stay in two different places at once but this thematic restaurant just makes it possible for you.
Pasghettis features seven themed dining areas lined up along a strip.
Here, you can jump from Italy to Singapore within seconds and try their sumptuous dishes.
Pasghettis is one of the most popular restaurants to try for a unique culinary experience.
Plus, there’s also a play area where kids can have fun after eating.
Popular Dishes to Try
Dig into the special spaghetti topped with meatballs and a dash of the homemade marinara sauce.
Pick the cajun chicken and shrimp pasta if you’re craving a peppery fettuccine pasta.
Both entrées come with a breadstick on the side.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Greensview Branson by Exploria Resorts
Also See:
Best Restaurants in St Charles, MO
Best Restaurants in Crystal City
Restaurants in Hermann
13. Gettin’ Basted
2845 W 76 Country Blvd.
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 320-6357
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Gettin’ Basted was originally founded as a competition barbecue team in 2012.
Its property in Branson’s entertainment district was the first full-service restaurant they established in 2017.
Why It Made The List
This casual chain restaurant stands out from the rest because it pioneered a unique method of cooking Ozarks barbecue—hot and fast.
It uses live wood coals and 55-gallon barrels to perfect the process.
Both young people and the young-at-heart would fancy this taste.
Popular Dishes to Try
Take this chance to order their uniquely styled smoked brisket to discover the Ozarks-style barbecue that this restaurant pioneered.
Go for the Nashville Hot sandwich if you’re after a spicy aftertaste.
Order some championship chicken wings as well to indulge in the classics.
Those who like large servings must have the Judge’s Plate to taste every best thing that this place offers—from brisket, pulled pork, ribs, chicken, and sausage.
It may be the costliest on the menu, but it’s certainly worth every penny.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center
14. McFarlain’s Family Restaurant
3562 Shepherd of the Hills Expy
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 335-4832
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McFarlain’s Family Restaurant highlights the typical Ozarks cuisine for locals and tourists alike.
This diner is situated inside the Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex.
Why It Made The List
No need to look for a dining place that’s way too far after watching the latest movies at the IMAX Theater.
McFarlain’s has a wide array of food items that can ease the hunger of the whole clan.
It doesn’t matter how small or how large your group is since there’s ample space for all.
Plus, its log-cabin indoor style offers a country vibe that you’ll like.
Popular Dishes to Try
McFarlain’s Legendary Fried Chicken has pleased the palate of thousands of people who have come here.
It’s a crispy and juicy chicken with golden-brown skin served with two side dishes.
If this is what you want for lunch, better come early since this runs out fast.
Guests who can’t get enough of the tangy barbecue in Branson must try the Backwoods Grilled Chicken.
Savor the melted cheddar cheese and chopped backwoods bacon on top.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand View Inn & Suites
15. Mel’s Hard Luck Diner
2800 W 76 Country Blvd Ste.
Branson, MO 65616
(417) 332-0150
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Mel’s Hard Luck Diner, a two-decade-old diner, is home to the original singing servers in Branson.
It’s located inside the Grand Village Shopping Center.
Why It Made The List
Take a trip back to the good ol’ days when you visit this music-themed diner in the Branson area.
Set in the 1950s, this iconic restaurant is the epitome of an old-school aesthetic.
Framed album covers, neon lights, and vintage coke memorabilia are displayed all around.
Its servers also go beyond providing food—they can also surprise you with a lively song number.
Yes, they’re professional singers, dancers, and performers.
Given its unique offerings, there’s no doubt this place is one of the best restaurants in Branson.
Popular Dishes to Try
Try the grand village cheesesteak to enjoy the classical taste of roast beef, mushroom, onion, pepper, and cheese.
Upon eating, you’ll easily realize why it’s one of the top items on the menu.
Another sandwich you wouldn’t want to miss is the grilled chicken croissant with fruits.
Avail yourself of the old-fashioned banana split in a large bowl with vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate ice cream.
It’s a delectable dessert that’s got whipped cream and nuts, highlighted by cherries on top.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Center Pointe Inn
Dining Guide
Comparing Restaurants: Which One Is Right For You?
You must consider many things—from the food to the ambiance—before deciding which eatery to pick.
Dobyns Dining Room appeals to those who want a farm-to-table dining experience.
It’s a student-run dining establishment known for providing diverse lunch and dinner offerings.
But due to this, it can really get crowded during peak hours.
Fried chicken, pork chop, and seafood pasta are some of the things you can look forward to having here.
If you’re in Branson Craft Mall, the Pickin Porch Grill can be an ideal lunch spot with your friends.
Barbecue lovers will have the best time in this casual place because of the available smoked items.
At Pickin Porch Grill, I relished their classic and famous Anaheim burger.
Beyond the food, this place hosts live music to give you a rich experience during dinner.
On the low side, it has limited seating.
Meanwhile, pizza lovers can find a home in Rocco’s NY Style Pizza by Mama D’s House.
Its menu does not only include traditional flavors but also specialty creations.
Known for using fresh homemade dough, Rocco’s has become a fan-favorite pizzeria in the neighborhood.
However, they have a small space.
Clearly, these restaurants have their specialties.
That’s why it’s essential to take your pick based on the food you crave, the vibe you want, and the event you intend to celebrate (if there is any).
How I Picked The Restaurants
As a foodie and travel writer with years of experience, I have developed my expertise in assessing different food establishments.
So I know there is no better way to assess restaurants than by trying their offerings.
During my visits to Branson, I chatted with fellow diners to gain deeper insights into the town’s culinary scene and interview foodies about their personal picks and reviews.
I also checked credible food review sites and the restaurant’s menu to compare prices, dishes, and flavor influences.
In every establishment listed here, I took the time to savor their dishes and observe the entire ambiance to ensure a deeper insight into Branson’s dining scene.
Our Restaurant Rating Method
We rate these restaurants based on the following criteria.
- Taste & Variety: We use it to evaluate the variety and food quality served at every restaurant. Does the restaurant serve tasty dishes with unique flavors? Does the restaurant’s menu cater to different dietary preferences, like vegetarian and gluten-free? We ask ourselves these questions to evaluate the taste and variety criterion.
- Service: It’s used to evaluate the quality of service provided by the restaurant’s staff. Are their servers knowledgeable about their food? Are they friendly, prompt, and courteous? These are the important questions whenever we rate the service of every restaurant.
- Atmosphere: It evaluates the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Is the restaurant comfortable and inviting? Does the restaurant’s atmosphere match the type of cuisine they serve? We consider these factors when evaluating the restaurant’s atmosphere.
- Affordability: We use this to assess the value of money provided by the restaurant. Are the food portions ideal for the price? Are the guests going to be satisfied with what they pay for? We ask ourselves these questions in order to rate the restaurant’s affordability.
- Accessibility: It measures how accessible the place is for the guests. Is the restaurant in a convenient location that is easy to get to? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have enough parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? We use these questions to assess the accessibility of every restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Restaurant In Branson That Delivers?
Rocco’s NY Style Pizza is the best restaurant in Branson that makes deliveries.
What Is The Top Farm-to-table Restaurant In Branson?
Dobyns Dining Room at the Keeter Center is among the top farm-to-table eateries in Branson.
Conclusion
Based on my experience and research, these Branson restaurants have exceeded expectations through their culinary excellence.
But these places also have their fair share of drawbacks you must consider.
For one, Dobyns Dining Room and Pickin Porch Grill are crowded during peak times, making them less ideal for large groups.
At Rocco’s, a local recommended their Rancho Romano pizza, which was a delight.
With its unfussy style, though, it may not appeal to people who like sophisticated places.
Is unfussy okay with you as long as it offers breakfast all day?
If so, the Hungry Hunter Restaurant must be part of your itinerary for the day.
Despite the downsides, they are worth visiting because of their continuing improvements.
As the best restaurants in Branson, these places will always strive to give you the outstanding service you deserve.
And for our top pick?
You can’t go wrong with Dobyns Dining Room.
It stands out because its fresh offerings come at reasonable prices.
I personally enjoyed their tender hickory-smoked pork and chef’s hand-crafted soup.
Editor’s Choice
Dobyns Dining Room at the Keeter Center
Dobyns Dining Room is an award-winning restaurant based at the Keeter Center in the University of Ozarks.
- Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
- Service: 5/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
