The restaurant business is a tough one. Often we see new places open up in town, only to close within a couple years. However, these 11 dining spots have surpassed all the obstacles of running a restaurant and have stayed open for decades.
1. J. Huston Tavern - Arrow Rock
Talk about staying in the game for years. J. Huston's is the oldest operating restaurant in Missouri and once served as a popular rest stop for immigrants traveling west in the 1800s. Today, they serve some of the best fried chicken in Missouri.
Address:
304 Main St.
Arrow Rock, MO 65320
2. Arthur Bryant's - Kansas City
I'd consider Arthur Bryant's the grandfather of BBQ in Missouri. It is the longest-running BBQ restaurant in Missouri and has drawn in the likes of President Obama, himself.
Address:
1727 Brooklyn Ave.
Kansas City, MO 64127
3. Booches - Columbia
Booches was established in 1994 and, over the years, has become a staple in Columbia. Come for their delicious sliders and stay for a game or two of pool.
Address:
110 S. 9th St. Columbia, MO 65201
4. Carl's Drive-In - Brentwood
This Route 66-inspired diner is located right outside of St. Louis city limits. Don't let its shack-like structure fool you, this diner serves up some of the best burgers in the area.
Address:
9033 Manchester Rd.
Brentwood, MO 63144
5. Dixon's Famous Chili - Independence
Established in 1919, Dixon's Famous Chili is the oldest family owned restaurant in the Kansas City area. One of its daily specials includes all-you-can-eat tacos.
Address:
9105 E US Hwy 40 Independence, MO 64055
6. Iron Horse - Blackwater
Chef Tracy’s Memphis-Style Coleslaw, Sweet Potato Waffle Fries, and slices of Deep-Fried Pickles are just a few of the mouthwatering delicacies served at this small town hotel restaurant.
Address:
101 Main St.
Blackwater, MO 65322
7. The Fred Restaurant & Lounge - Boonville
The Hotel Frederick is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and incudes its own restaurant, known as, "The Fred."
Address:
501 High St. Boonville, MO 65233
8. White Rose Cafe - Union
White Rose Cafe is a local favorite in the small town of Union. They serve breakfast all day and host vintage auto shows from time to time.
Address:
208 E Main St.
Union, MO 63084
9. Hendel's Restaurant
In 1873, Hendel's was established as a grocery store and deli, but in 1994, was flipped into a full-service restaurant.
Address:
599 Saint Denis St.
Florissant, MO 63031
10. Blueberry Hill - St. Louis
For years, Blueberry Hill has been the heart and soul of St. Louis. They first opened their doors in 1972 and brought in notable music performers, such as Chuck Berry.
Address:
6504 Delmar Blvd.
Saint Louis, MO 63130
11. Concert Hall and Barrel - Hermann
During the late 1800s,, Concert Hall and Barrel was the main social hub for residents. The upstairs used to host plays, concerts, lectures and dances.
Address:
206 E 1st St.
Hermann, MO 65041
Do you remember going to any of these as a kid? What was your best memory? We’d love to know in the comments!
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