Sometimes a meal is quick. We’re hungry; we want something fast, and we’re happy. Other times, we crave a unique experience that includes a delicious meal. That’s what you’ll find at this historic restaurant in Missouri, a longtime favorite that has drawn diners for its scrumptious food, historic ambiance, and … it’s even said to be home to a few otherworldly spirits. Pack your bags and prepare for the eerie dining adventure of a lifetime.

Known as the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Missouri, J. Huston Tavern in Arrow Rock has been a popular place to relax and have a meal since 1834. Its rich history has earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Facebook/J. Huston Tavern
There's something to be said for a restaurant with that much longevity. You can't get by for almost two hundred years with bad food!
Built on land purchased by Joseph Huston in the early 1800s, the J. Huston Tavern originally served as a hotel and a restaurant. It was a popular gathering space for community members, too.
Facebook/J. Huston Tavern
It's still a beloved local part of town, both for its unique history and its delicious food.
Since those early days, ownership has changed hands numerous times. Today, the Missouri State Parks is in charge of the historic Missouri tavern that draws diners from near and far.
Facebook/J. Huston Tavern
This ensures that the property is properly preserved and respected. No new development will come around making changes.
Even if you’re not a history buff, you might be tempted to visit J. Huston Tavern for its paranormal activity. A variety of ghosts are said to live in the tavern, including a bride still in her wedding dress. Some say she awaits the return of her missing groom while others contend that she committed suicide after she was stood up at the altar.
Facebook/J. Huston Tavern
So we guess be warned if you're on the eve of a wedding. This might not be the place to come celebrate.

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However, you don’t have to be a history buff or fascinated by the paranormal to dine at J. Huston Tavern. You just have to be a fan of really good food.
Facebook/J. Huston Tavern
And that's pretty much everyone, we suspect.
The Missouri tavern is known for its good, old-fashioned American food. Start with one of the favorites – chicken wings or corn dip, for example. Check out the soups and salads as well.
Facebook/J. Huston Tavern
There's an expansive menu so everyone in your party, even the picky eaters, will find something to love.
J. Huston Tavern is perhaps best known for its fried chicken, and you’ll love every scrumptious bite. Sweet ham is another popular entrée.
Facebook/J. Huston Tavern
Some of these dishes may have been eaten by previous diners more than 100 years ago. Pretty cool, huh?
The menu also features such tasty entrees as pot roast and sirloin steak. If you’re in the mood for a hand-held, you can’t go wrong with a classic BLT or a chicken club sandwich.
Facebook/J. Huston Tavern
The historic tavern in Missouri also offers a kids' menu with such kid-friendly options as grilled cheese, mac and cheese, and chicken strips.
View a menu or make a reservation on the J. Huston Tavern website. Or, stay up to date on restaurant specials on their Facebook page.
Facebook/J. Huston Tavern

Have you been to this historic restaurant in Missouri? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments below!

After your meal, explore this tiny Missouri village that’s one of the last of its kind.

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More to Explore

Restaurants In Missouri

CC | March 19, 2024

What are the best restaurants in Missouri?

This historic and delicious restaurant might get you thinking about what the rest of the Missouri culinary scene has to offer. And you’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn that there’s a lot of great food to eat here. Add the best restaurants in Missouri to your travel itinerary.

  • Fred & Red’s – Joplin
  • Arnie’s Barn – Ridgedale
  • Murphy’s Stuffed Potatoes – Various
  • White Rose Café – Union
  • MacCheesy – Joplin
  • Hick Bar-B-Que – Cuba
  • Creekside Grill – Echo Bluff State Park
  • 1820, The Family Restaurant – Keytesville
  • Tin Mill Restaurant – Hermann
  • Red’s Giant Hamburg – Springfield
  • Don’s Family Style Buffet – Huntsville
  • Vig’s KC – Odessa

 

Where are the most loved small town restaurants in Missouri?

Sure, there’s a lot of great food in urban areas. But there’s something to be said for a delicious meal in a small town restaurant. Not only is the food always amazing but there’s a down home kind of service that makes you feel like one of the locals. Experience it for yourself at these small town restaurants in Missouri.

  • Crane's Farmhouse, Shelbyville
  • Thee Abbey Kitchen - Arcadia Academy, Ironton
  • Aurora Family Restaurant, Aurora
  • Iron Horse, Blackwater
  • Wentzville Family Diner, Wentzville
  • The Kozy, Bloomsdale
  • Dimitris' Greek Gyros & Deli, Branson
  • Catalpa, Arrow Rock
  • Heroes Restaurant & Pub, Warrensburg
  • Emmet’s Kitchen & Tap, Fayette
  • The Ozark Café, West Plains

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Featured Addresses
J Huston Tavern, 305 Main St, Arrow Rock, MO 65320, USA