Drop Anchor!

Take a meal on the lake. Sunsets over sparkling waters come complimentary.

Blue waters, warm sun on your face, wind-whipped hair, laughter. It doesn’t get any better than summertime in the Ozarks—’cept you’re hungry. No need to take the boat out of the water. Drop anchor at these eateries on Missouri’s lakes. Best part? The dress code, whether it’s an upscale, mid-scale or no-scale eatery, is always boat-casual.

A Hoy’s

Seafood, steaks and “the best prime rib on the lake” are served at A Hoy’s Food and Spirits, says the restaurant’s Joe Bella. A two-story, round fireplace holds center stage at A Hoy’s, but your attention may be diverted toward the lake: A wall of picture windows in the dining room offers a view from all 180 seats. Not close enough? Another 160 can sit outside on the deck of this combination steakhouse, live music venue and sports bar. Wanna cut a rug? A dance floor allows for such, says Bella. “You can party, have fun and enjoy dinner and dancing,” he says. (11863 State Hwy. 13 in the Kimberling Inn, Kimberling City. By water, seek the Kimberling City bridge. 417-739-4044)

Big Buoy’s

Let’s talk smoked pork spareribs and smoked beef brisket. Juicy burgers and pizza were already on the menu at Big Buoy’s Café, but Alan’s Famous Ribs now complement the bill of fare at this floating eatery complete with pink tablecloths and white, round-back chairs. Popular on the lake for years, in part, perhaps, because of the outdoor dining option: Tables line the dock where diners peer over the water’s edge to spy huge fish; feeders hanging overhead bring hummingbirds to light near hungry, sun-soaked lake enthusiasts. Lemonade, iced tea and alcohol offer a cool respite. (344 Nautical Circle, Kimberling City. By water, found on Pier 27 at Port of Kimberling Marina. 417-739-9294)

The Horny Toad

If size matters, the Horny Toad tops the list for dining on the Lake of the Ozarks. But much more is offered at the 30,000-square-foot Horny Toad complex: Some 9 bars and 200 boat slips are available for patrons who come off the water. At three-stories, the top floor of The Horny Toad offers the best prospects for food. The massive menu lists seared salmon salad, bacon-wrapped filets and spinach ravioli primavera. After-dinner drinks and tropical mixes quench your thirst. Throw in an amazing lineup of live music—Willie Nelson, Steve Miller Band and REO Speedwagon are all performing—and you’ve got yourself a lakeside party palace. (1225 Bittersweet, Lake Ozark. 573-365-5500; toadcove.com)

The Potted Steer

It’s a restaurant for romantic adults, says Joseph Boer, owner of The Potted Steer. An overhang flanks the perimeter of the Dutch-themed dining spot, making it a must go-to for couples savoring a glass of vino. And wine there is plentiful. Three long pages are listed, ranging from a $25 bottle of sparkling wine to a $650 bottle of cabernet sauvignon. Boer serves crab-stuffed tiger shrimp and Ahi yellowtail tuna; steaks round out the upscale menu. Specialties might come via dessert, as pastry chef Boer makes chocolate truffles and éclairs. Shiny tables and carpeted floors set the scene where most folks come in “off the boat,” says Boer. “They can dress in two stuffed olives if they want,” he says (5085 Highway 54, Osage Beach. By water, found at 16- and 19-mile markers next to the Grand Glaize Bridge. 573-365-5743; thepottedsteer.com)

More Table Rock Lake Spots

While you won’t be serenaded by waves lapping the shore at these venues, two options at Table Rock can’t be ignored. And with shuttle service running from the water to their dining rooms and stunning lake views, you’re but a hop, skip and jump from your boat to amazing sit-down dinners and more.

Nobody does fishing like Bass Pro Shops, so expect nothing less than a veritable boatload of options at Big Cedar Lodge. Order a slow roasted, organic half chicken or Table Rock Tournedos at the opulent Worman House. For most, though, Big Cedar’s Devil’s Pool Restaurant fits just fine: The casual dining option lists sorghum-braised short ribs and pan-seared walleye.

The Worman House champagne brunch buffet is highly regarded, as the traditional eggs, potatoes and bacon are complemented with baked salmon, cheesy broccoli and cauliflower and omelets made-to-order. Fresh fruit is scattered down the line of lovely foodstuffs stretching throughout the dining room rich in rustic sophistication. (612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale. House phone will ring shuttle service from Devil’s Pool Marina. 417-335-2777; www.big-cedar.com)

You can’t miss the Chateau on the Lake. Taking center stage, the castle-like hotel on the hill sits near the equally stunning Table Rock Lake Dam. Show up at the dock and shuttle to any number of choices for fare, from The Sweet Shoppe’s pastries and hand-dipped ice cream to picnic-style dishes at the 99th Street Italian Deli to the upscale and elegance of the Chateau Grille.
Diners feast on Yukon sea bass with wilted spinach or spiced, grilled tuna with dirty rice. Foie gras appetizers complement an exceptional view of the lake from the linen-covered tables of the dining room. Sunday brunch at the Chateau is a good bet, too; try the veranda. (415 N. State Hwy. 65, Branson. 417-334-1161; chateauonthelake.com)