When traveling to the heart of the Midwest, Branson, Missouri is one the jewels of the region. Beyond the thrill of taking a dip in the lake or riding roller coasters at Silver Dollar City, you and your kids can also dive into homemade cuisine near your Branson vacation rental. Take note of these 11 kid-friendly restaurants when planning your meals for the week.
1. Silver Mine Restaurant
After spending the day exploring Silver Dollar City and providing your kids with action-packed adventures, stop by the Silver Mine Restaurant inside the park for a unique dinner experience. This restaurant is located underground within the park to mimic the style of 100-year old mines. The environment is not the only attractive part of this restaurant; let the kids choose from everything from their favorite salads and sandwiches to pizza by the slice in this cafeteria-style eatery.
2. Rowdy Beaver Restaurant
When the kids are getting rowdy, then it’s the perfect time to take them to Rowdy Beaver Restaurant. Though this popular Branson restaurant offers a rustic decor with barn wood decorations, the food is as fancy as it gets, with all-you-can-eat fried catfish, fried chicken, and shrimp. Famous for barbecue and steaks, this rowdy restaurant also serves pork tenderloin sandwiches and nachos to fill up your bellies after a busy day touring Branson.
3. Farmhouse Restaurant
Tour the Old Town area of Branson and stop by the Farmhouse Restaurant for a home-cooked meal before retreating back to your vacation rental for some rest and relaxation. This locally-owned restaurant offers food made from scratch to entice even the pickiest of palates. While easygoing kids choose from traditional American cuisine, such as fried chicken and hamburgers, more ambitious little ones dive into the chicken and dumplings at the Farmhouse Restaurant. Top off your meal with a slice of blackberry cobbler to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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4. Billy Gail’s Cafe
Take a turn off the beaten path while touring Branson to find Billy Gail’s Cafe, a popular eatery that serves breakfast and lunch daily. Watch as the kids admire their larger-than-life pancakes that barely fit on a plate, or choose a large helping of biscuits and gravy. Billy Gail’s also hosts an on-site country store, so be sure to pick up some souvenirs on your way out.
5. McFarlain’s Family Restaurant
Feel like you’re part of the family when enjoying a meal at McFarlain’s Family Restaurant in Branson. This restaurant features Mama’s cooking, and is tucked conveniently inside the IMAX Entertainment Complex. Fill up on homemade specials such as country fried steak or chicken, local fish, mashed potatoes, and plenty of gravy. A side of cornbread is a must when dining out at McFarlain’s.
6. Mel’s Hard Luck Diner
Entertain the kids with a hearty meal and a show when opting to dine at Mel’s Hard Luck Diner in Branson. While you are browsing the menu, enjoy the singing waiters, who offer a toe-tapping good time before, during, and after your meal. This diner serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a full-service American cuisine menu that includes pot roast, country fried steak, and shrimp. Don’t forget to add a root beer malt to your order or top off the meal with a banana split.
7. The White River Fish House
Satisfy the seafood lovers in your crew with a meal at The White River Fish House. Adjacent to the Brass Pro Shop at The Landing, this restaurant offers lake-side views of the boats and bluffs. Enjoy the seafood-inspired cuisine with a fish dish, or encourage the kids to try alligator for the first time. The kids’ menu is chock-full of savory choices such as sandwiches and salads. For dessert, go for the oversized chocolate chip cookie this fish house is famous for.
8. Dobyn’s Restaurant
Opt for healthy fare when treating the kids to a farm-to-table dining experience at the Keeter Center at the College of the Ozarks. Dobyn’s restaurant uses only fresh garden ingredients and meats to conjure up salads, sandwiches, and American cuisine the kids love.
9. Danna’s Barbecue
The midwest rivals Southern cuisine, and when you’re looking for some Southern barbecue, Branson has plenty of options reminiscent of Memphis and Kansas City. Stop in at Danna’s Barbecue for a lunch plate that includes pulled pork, smoked meats, or a plump burger. Douse your meat with homemade barbecue sauces that vary from sweet and tangy to delightfully spicy.
10. Pasghetti’s
If you and the kids are craving Italian food, then a meal at Pasghetti’s must be on your trip itinerary. This Italian restaurant specializes in Italian food that is larger than life. Order the traditional Pasghetti and meatball that overflows the plate or opt for your favorite pasta dish. Once your bellies are full, head over to the Ferris wheel or game room onsite for another exciting Branson adventure to add to your collection.
11. Papa Grand’s Pizza
Combine fun with food when dining at Papa Grand’s Pizza, located at The Fun Spot in Grand Country. This interactive area boasts an on-site arcade, mini-golf course, and a laser tag arena. You and the kids can even ride the bumper cars before stopping in for a slice of pie or a dessert.
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