26 Best Restaurants in Joplin, MO
Let me take you on a gastronomic journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more with this list of the best restaurants in Joplin, Missouri.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Joplin that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
The Bruncheonette
There's nothing quite like finding that special place in your city where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the best the local food scene has to offer.
For me, that place is The Bruncheonette.
This charming brunch restaurant tucked away in Joplin is an absolute gem and one I always recommend to friends, family, and visitors.
Now, let's talk about the food.
Every dish I've tried is unique, vibrant, and bursting with flavor.
The Farmhouse sandwich is a standout, boasting a mix of textures and flavors that always leaves me wanting more.
And then there's the carrot fries - far superior to regular potato fries and a must-try for any first-time visitor.
I've also noticed they have a fantastic range of gluten-free options, which is a huge plus for those with dietary restrictions.
I remember one Sunday morning, I had the GF Garden Benny and the GF Benny Harper.
Each bite was a delight, the perfect blend of savory and fresh.
I was also pleasantly surprised when I tried their GF Cuban Benny and a plate of fruit - both were extremely delicious and left me satisfied.
Every time I visit, I'm greeted with warm smiles and the inviting aroma of freshly cooked food.
There's also something to be said about a restaurant that sources its ingredients from local farms, dairies, and bakeries.
MEs Place Soul Food Kitchen
Oh, how I cherish my visits to MEs Place Soul Food Kitchen.
It seems they are not just focused on their job but also genuinely concerned about everyone's enjoyment.
And that's the kind of hospitality that truly makes a difference.
Let's talk about the food, though.
It's beyond outstanding!
The smothered pork chop is so tender it just melts on your fork.
Paired with their fried catfish, it's a combination that sends your taste buds on a heavenly journey.
I swear it's the best I've ever tasted.
But what takes the cake for me is their greens.
They are simply the best in the city.
In fact, I often find myself indulging in just greens and nothing else.
Han The Sushi Man
Every Friday night, it's tradition for me to unwind after a long week at Han the Sushi Man for my sushi fix.
Tucked away in a local strip mall, this simple spot quickly became my go-to for an authentic Japanese experience.
The array of sushi rolls they offer is staggering, stretching beyond the standard menu into a comprehensive binder.
I love exploring the extensive specialty roll selection, each one more unique and flavorful than the last.
The rolls aren't just standard fare either – they’re big and packed with flavor.
I recommend the Dragon Roll, it's a personal favorite.
But Han's isn't just a sushi lover's paradise.
The cooked dishes are also worth mentioning, with a variety of options for those who prefer their food a bit less raw.
They've got the family-friendly vibe down pat, making it a great spot for everyone, from sushi connoisseurs to beginners.
Red Onion Cafe
There's something special about dining in a building that's been a part of the city's history for over a hundred years, and that's exactly what you'll experience at Red Onion Cafe.
The atmosphere in the restaurant is so inviting, and you can sense the history and charm of the old building.
My first visit to Red Onion Cafe was for a casual lunch.
When my entree arrived - beautifully presented and mostly flavorful.
On my second visit, the food was incredible!
The stuffed mushroom appetizer was a delight to the taste buds, perfectly cooked and not at all mushy.
The bacon-wrapped shrimp with their special sauce was an explosion of flavor, and the big fresh salad with fried chicken and honey mustard dressing was a hit with my partner.
I ordered the crunchy burger with seasoned fries, and it turned out to be quite delicious.
One of the best things about Red Onion Cafe is its variety.
The menu has everything from soups, salads, and pasta to fried chicken, pork chops, and steak.
My personal favorite has to be the grilled chicken Alfredo, topped with tiny fried onions.
M&M Bistro
Last week, I decided to switch up my usual lunch routine and explore a different part of the local culinary scene - the M&M Bistro.
This cozy little place is nestled in our city, offering a delightful mix of Mediterranean cuisine.
It instantly transports you to an old-world setting with its rustic ambiance.
From the moment I stepped in, I was drawn to the aromatic wafts of gyros and kabobs grilling to perfection.
It was a revelation when I tasted their falafel - so full of flavor and yet, not dry at all!
It was the ideal blend of crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Every bite was a morsel of delightful surprise.
The regular menu at M&M Bistro makes it easy for anyone to make a safe choice, even if you're a newbie to this type of cuisine.
I was particularly intrigued by the "Cabbage Rolls" special of the day.
The rolls were served in a hearty, rustic red sauce that was both satisfying and filling.
My partner, who is a vegetarian, had nothing but praise for their hummus as part of his vegetarian platter.
We both agreed that the food tasted like it was prepared with care and pride.
I even had the chance to meet the chef, who made a point to check on us during our visit.
His passion for his craft was evident in his warm interaction and the delicious food he served.
The wonderful atmosphere and service at the M&M Bistro only added to the flavorful and perfectly cooked dishes.
Every bite was an exciting treat to my taste buds.
The combination of flavors was so alluring that it made me want to include Mediterranean food in my diet more often.
Blackstone Gastropub
If you ever find yourself craving a truly delightful culinary experience, allow me to share my favorite local haunt - Blackstone Gastropub.
I've spent many evenings savoring their mouthwatering menu.
Notably, their crispy Brussels are an appetizer that could easily double up as a satisfying meal.
I've also found their Alabama Sammie to be an absolute delight.
On the topic of desserts, don't even get me started on their brownie cheesecake cinnamon roll!
Even as someone who isn't particularly fond of cinnamon rolls, I was immediately sold on this sumptuous treat.
I've also tried their gnocchi on a whim after seeing it on someone else's plate - and it was a decision I didn't regret.
It's like every visit becomes an opportunity to discover a new favorite.
Speaking of favorites, my boyfriend swears by their burger of the month, which he describes as a 'mouthful of joy.'
Their mac & cheese is quite legendary too.
So rich and saucy, it's easily the best I've tasted in the area.
I'm not alone in my gastronomic adoration, it's often buzzing with other food aficionados, and the service never skips a beat, even when they're super busy.
The place has a cool, funky atmosphere enhanced by the selection of great music they play, making it an ideal spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
The portions are generous, often leaving us with delicious leftovers for our next meal.
Mythos
Nothing beats the thrill of trying out a new dining spot in the city.
Last week, my partner and I decided to give Mythos a try, and boy, were we impressed!
As we walked in, we were immediately greeted by the warm, inviting atmosphere.
It was a quiet afternoon, but the place still managed to feel romantic, making for a lovely, intimate meal.
Now for the part that really matters, the food!
I chose the Beef Vesuvius, and it was cooked to absolute perfection.
My partner's Ribeye was equally impressive - tender and juicy just as you'd want.
It was clear that Mythos places a strong emphasis on presenting well-prepared, beautifully served dishes.
I will say, however, that while the food was delicious, it wasn't as Greek as we'd imagined.
That's not necessarily a deal breaker for me, but if you're expecting a heavily Greek-influenced menu, you might be slightly disappointed.
The prices were quite affordable, given the ambiance, and the service was top-notch, which definitely made up for this.
Lalo's Taqueria
There's much to celebrate about my city, but a gem close to my heart is Lalo's Taqueria.
It's a small place, but don't let its size fool you.
Lalo's serves up some of the most authentic and memorable meals I've had in a long time.
I've found myself there at least once a week, eager to dive into the traditional delicacies they have on their menu.
From burritos to carne asada platters, there isn't a dish at Lalo's that hasn't left me satisfied.
In fact, I can confidently say that I have tried almost everything they offer.
I remember the first time I had their HORCHATA – a sweet, refreshing drink that was love at first sip.
A tip from me: give it a try when you stop by.
Nowadays, it seems I consistently find myself ordering carne asada torta.
I can't even begin to describe how good these tortas are.
They're packed with flavor, and the asada is cooked to perfection, making them a must-try.
Bites N Pipes
I've always been a fan of unique dining experiences, so when I first heard about Bites N Pipes, a local hookah lounge and eatery, I knew I had to try it out.
The first thing that caught my attention when I walked in was the clean and neat interior.
The bar area was stylish, and the multitude of TVs scattered around the space made it a great spot for catching up on sports or watching a game with friends.
I even spotted a PS5 - a rare sight!
Their hookah selection was impressive, with a variety of accessories available for purchase.
I've been there about four times now, and each time, the hookah they prepared for me was top-notch.
If, like me, you enjoy relaxing with some quality smoke, Bites N Pipes is definitely the place for you.
But what about the food?
I'm happy to report that their cuisine does not disappoint.
The chicken masala I tried was absolutely delicious.
The flavors were robust, and the dish was perfectly spiced.
Woody's Wood-Fire Pizza Bar & Oven
I find myself constantly drawn to Woody's Wood-Fire Pizza Bar & Oven.
There's just something about this tiny pizzeria and bar that keeps pulling me back.
It's located just around the corner, and the fact that it's a hole-in-the-wall kind of place gives it a certain charm that's hard to find elsewhere.
To know more, you can visit their site here.
I remember the first time I walked in on a Tuesday for lunch, I was pleasantly surprised by their pizza buffet.
It was the perfect opportunity to sample a variety of their wood-fired pies.
Now, I already have my favorites, but with their changing variety, there's always something new to try.
The wood-smoked crust with the perfect amount of char is something to die for.
And the toppings, they're always so fresh and perfectly seasoned.
It's Greek To Me
I'll tell you, the first time I tried 'It's Greek To Me', I was blown away.
Nestled in a laid-back corner of the city, this place has delicious food and a friendly atmosphere that keeps me coming back.
You can't miss their fabulous gyro.
I remember the first time I tasted it; the meat was cooked to perfection, and it was extremely flavorful.
The tzatziki sauce was unlike anything I've tasted elsewhere; it was so flavorful, and you could actually taste it, unlike in most other places.
Paired with the gyro, it was a match made in heaven.
If you're not in the mood for a gyro, try their salads.
They're fresh and delicious, and the portions are so generous they leave you satisfied.
Now, let me tell you about the baklava.
Here is where you can find this delightful place link.
Fred & Red's
Whenever I'm in the mood for some comfort food, I always head straight to Fred & Red's.
Stepping into this place always takes me back to simpler times.
You can feel the history seeping through the walls, and the retro ambiance is a poignant reminder of its long-standing presence in Joplin.
We, locals, pride ourselves in appreciating this place for its consistency in delivering delicious food.
Their chili is legendary, and their chili cheese dogs are to die for.
And if you're a burger enthusiast, you're in for a real treat!
The burgers here are arguably the best in the city.
The tamales are always flavorful, and their crinkle-cut fries never disappoint.
I particularly enjoy the 1/2 & 1/2 dish, a generous serving of spaghetti and tamales smothered in their famous chili.
Wilder's Steakhouse
There's no place quite like Wilder's Steakhouse in the city.
Nestled right in the heart of Joplin, it's been my favorite place to dine for years.
This vintage-style establishment with its original 1929 art deco bar and booths offers a dining experience unlike any other.
This is the kind of place where you go when you want to truly indulge your senses.
Visit their website here to check out their menu.
My usual order is their signature blackened rib eye steak.
You might think 8oz isn't a lot, but the cut is so thick, it's more than enough to satisfy my carnivorous cravings.
And the flavor?
Simply divine.
I have also tried the bacon, which is cut like a pork loin and provides a unique twist to the conventional thin slices.
Joplin Café
Joplin Café is my go-to spot for that down-home cooking I crave.
I visit the place at least once a week, and every time, I am taken aback by the genuine, friendly service and the high-quality food.
You can check out their Facebook page at Joplin-Cafe to see what I mean.
I've been lucky enough to be served by her on multiple occasions, and she's always there with a smile, ensuring my dining experience is nothing short of stellar.
The menu is extensive, providing options for every palate.
My personal favorite is the Hot Beef open-faced sandwich with mashed potatoes.
It arrives smothered in a hearty beef gravy, the meat delicately sliced and layered over two pieces of white bread.
The mashed potatoes are just the right blend of smooth and creamy.
And if you're in the mood for soup, don’t miss the cream of broccoli - it's creamy and flavorful.
Pho Saigon Vietnamese Noodle & Grill
Just the other day, I decided to give a visit to a restaurant I had heard much about but hadn't yet had the chance to explore - Pho Saigon Vietnamese Noodle & Grill.
You can explore their menu on their website.
The exterior of the restaurant is beautiful and welcoming, but I must admit, once inside, the atmosphere felt slightly less clean than I'd hoped for.
I ordered their beef flank pho and shrimp fresh rolls.
The service was quick, which was a plus.
The rolls were as big as I had anticipated, and the taste was divine.
The pho served in a large, hot bowl was filling and delicious.
Lucy's Ensenada Mexican Restaurant
I'm always on the hunt for a good Mexican eatery around the city, and my latest adventure led me to Lucy's Ensenada Mexican Restaurant.
When I first walked in, I was immediately aware of live music playing.
It was more of a karaoke situation with two young men singing to a soundtrack, and someone was even recording them.
It added some excitement to the atmosphere.
Now let's talk about the food.
I appreciated the variety on the menu, they even included breakfast options!
The amount of food you got for the price was quite impressive.
Norma's Diner
Let me tell you about my absolute favorite spot to start my day in the city, Norma's Diner.
Its location is easy to find right here on Google Maps.
I'm telling you, this place has the best biscuits you'll ever try, hands-down.
They are a game changer, especially if you grab Norma's Skillet to go with them.
It's a hearty and delicious meal that just hits all the right spots.
And don't even get me started on their coffee.
It's just excellent.
Their service is top-notch.
You can feel that the people working there genuinely enjoy what they do.
They have the perfect balance of being attentive without making you feel overwhelmed.
It's a really comfortable atmosphere, and it's always great when you can tell that friendliness isn't just an act.
Stogey's Coney Island
Oh, the joy of living in a city with a culinary treasure like Stogey's Coney Island.
This quaint, old-school diner has been a staple since 1983 and never fails to deliver a satisfying meal.
The charm of the place is its simplicity, with no pretensions or fancy decor.
The burgers here are nothing short of phenomenal - they are juicy, cheesy, and amazingly huge, completely justifying the term "comfort food."
One of the highlights for me is the price point.
You'd be hard-pressed to find a place that gives you so much food of such quality for a price that doesn't break the bank.
And let's not forget the fries, freshly cut and perfectly crispy, they are a delight to bite into.
The chili cheeseburger is a must-try, the kind where every bite makes you want to go back for more.
Having been a regular patron for years now, I have found the service to be consistently top-notch.
Trust me, once you sink your teeth into one of their burgers, you won't miss the hot dogs at all.
Tropicana Bar & Grill
I am a frequent visitor to the Tropicana Bar & Grill due to its perfect combination of delicious food and a relaxed atmosphere.
The place is a two-story American grill that offers a delightful experience with balcony seating, unique burgers, and an extensive variety of craft beer on tap.
One of my most memorable experiences was when I ordered the Philly Egg rolls.
They were absolutely out of this world, full of flavors that I had to resist the urge to order more and skip my main course.
I ended up trying the fish tacos and snake burger, both of which were truly scrumptious.
Magic Noodle
Magic Noodle has become my ultimate comfort spot.
It's just around the corner, and I can't help but get drawn in by the aroma of their food.
Here, let me share the Google Maps link, so you can find this hidden gem too.
It's a cozy, understated Thai kitchen with a relaxed vibe that's perfect for both family meals and quiet date nights.
The first thing you'll notice is the warm décor that genuinely makes you feel at home and then comes the generous portions of classic Thai fare.
Oh!
And did I mention the superb customer service?
My personal favorites are the spring rolls and steamed dumplings.
They are served with some of the most delicious dipping sauces.
I remember trying the beef mango salad on a whim; although the steak was a bit on the dry side, it paired well with the dipping sauce.
And if you're into chicken dishes, you can't miss the General Magic Chicken.
Social BTB
The other day, I stumbled upon this gem of a restaurant, Social BTB, and boy, was I impressed.
They offered a good selection of drinks, and I felt spoiled for choice.
Their menu was quite intriguing.
I was particularly drawn to their chicken tenders, and I must say, they were really good.
But the dish that stole my heart was the sweet potato fries.
They were just divine and added a delicious twist to my meal.
Next, I tried their spicy green beans, and they delivered the perfect kick without being too overwhelming.
The Salt & Vinegar fries were also amazing, a real party for the taste buds.
During another visit, I decided to try the fried green beans and the bacon cheeseburger.
The green beans were so yummy, spicy, with lots of flavors.
The bacon cheeseburger was seasoned perfectly, and the bacon was just fantastic.
Sakura Sushi & Grill Japanese Restaurant
I have a rich history with sushi; it's one of those foods that I could eat every day and still not get tired of it.
I've visited numerous sushi joints across the city, but one restaurant that stands out is the Sakura Sushi & Grill Japanese Restaurant.
You can check them out on their Facebook page.
My first visit to Sakura was sparked by curiosity.
As I walked in, I was immediately drawn to the relaxed setting and elegant decor.
My attention was soon captured by the array of sushi rolls and platters perfectly lined up on their display.
I still remember how the flavors danced on my palate, the taste was utterly outstanding and exceptionally fresh.
Undercliff Grill & Bar
Visiting Undercliff Grill & Bar is nothing short of an adventure.
Nestled into a rock ledge, this place is the epitome of a hidden gem.
The restaurant is as unique as it gets, carved right into a cliff.
It's the sort of quirky touch that instantly makes you feel like you're in for a good time.
The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, perfect for relaxed dining.
And while the locale is undoubtedly a draw, it's the food that keeps me coming back.
Home-style cooking is the order of the day here, with a menu that's brimming with hearty, comfort food favorites.
The burgers, sandwiches, and daily specials never fail to hit the spot.
My personal favorite is the Cuban sandwich, while the fried pickles are something I always order as a side.
The freshness of the ingredients is evident, the meats are lean, and every dish seems to have that homemade quality that I absolutely adore.
Add to this the impeccable service.
They make sure your drink never stays empty for too long and are always ready to chat about the history of the place, adding to the overall experience.
Sami's Family Restaurant
I've been a regular at Sami's Family Restaurant for quite a while now.
I must admit, the first time I walked in, I was rather taken aback.
The bathrooms were far from acceptable, and the food seemed to be at the same level.
The chicken fried steaks were tasty, and the mashed potatoes were pretty good.
What truly makes the experience at Sami's worthwhile is the service and the atmosphere.
The family-friendly environment was welcoming, which adds a nice touch to the dining experience.
It was quite off-putting, and honestly, it made me question whether I wanted to eat there again.
But the food and service are good enough to give it another shot.
It's one of those places where you need to try something different each time to truly appreciate it.
Crabby's
There's something quite charming about the atmospheric dim lighting at Crabby's.
The seafood selection is pretty extensive, featuring some of the best crab cakes you'll ever taste.
In the past, I've also tried their crab legs - they really do seem to have a knack for getting that perfect balance of taste and texture.
We once had our Valentine's Day dinner here.
The food and service were impeccable.
Hackett Hot Wings
I've had the pleasure of frequenting Hackett Hot Wings, a relaxed Memphis-style joint known for its 13 flavors of chicken wings and Southern specialties.
This place is a classic, and the food, delicious as ever.
After all these years, the flavors still remain the same.
The ambiance is such that you can enjoy the space in peace, away from the bar room, or join the lively crowd.
One of my go-to dishes here is the chicken chunks which, let me tell you, are quite generous!
Along with this, I usually order some fried pickles and veggies with their spicy bbq sauce on the side.
It's just the perfect combination.
What sets this place apart is not just the great food but also their excellent choice of beers.
There are at least 20 different beers on tap, and they switch them up pretty often.
Hackett Hot Wings also has a sports bar side and a dining room side, making it a versatile spot suitable for a wide variety of occasions.
It even has an upstairs area that can be rented for parties!
Hackett’s Wings are indeed the best in the business.
Whether you prefer boneless or bone-in, they've got you covered.
Final Thoughts
After making my way through Joplin's finest eateries, I can wholeheartedly affirm that our small city is a foodie's paradise!
From the hearty meals at MEs Place Soul Food Kitchen and Norma’s Diner to the exquisite sushi at Han the Sushi Man, there's a taste for everyone.
Whether you're after homestyle comfort food, exotic flavors, or gourmet fine dining, you'll find it here.
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