5 Fun Places To Eat in Branson, MO, for the Ultimate Family Vacation Experience
5 Fun Places To Eat in Branson, MO, for the Ultimate Family Vacation Experience
A family-friendly haven in the Ozark Mountains, Branson, Missouri, is famous for exciting live shows, thrilling attractions, and legendary Southern hospitality. But after a busy day of sightseeing and making memories in this bustling town, you're bound to chow down on a delicious meal before heading back to one of Westgate's Branson resorts to relax and recharge.
Whether you want to grab a quick bite or enjoy a nice, long meal and unwind, we've got you covered. Check out our list of fun places to eat in Branson that cater to families and solo travelers looking for tasty food with a fantastic atmosphere.
5 Fun Places To Eat in Branson, MO
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Cordovano Joe’s Pizza
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Dolly Parton's Stampede
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Mel’s Hard Luck Diner
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Gettin’ Basted
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McFarlain's Family Restaurant
Whether you're looking for a kid-friendly place or a busy venue where you can meet locals and visitors, Branson's restaurants appeal to all tastes and budgets. We guide you through the list of restaurants with amazing food and good vibes that will make your Branson trip unforgettable.
1 | Cordovano Joe’s Pizza |
Cordovano Joe’s Pizza is tucked away inside the Wilderness Lodge of Westgate Branson Woods Resort, nestled in the Ozark Mountains. Thanks to the resort’s convenient location, visitors have access to Branson’s breathtaking scenery, fun outdoor activities, and a restaurant that boasts the best pizza in the area.
Cordovano Joe's Pizza is the ideal spot to grab a delicious meal for the whole family, especially if you’re into this famous Italian specialty. With classic options like Large Cheese or adventurous choices like the Extreme Pepperoni, the restaurant features something for everyone’s taste. But pizza isn't the only thing on the menu—you can also enjoy other Italian favorites like Parmesan breadsticks, sub sandwiches, and Garden salad.
WHERE: 2201 Roark Valley Road, Branson, MO 65616 │WHO: 888-794-5326
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2 | Dolly Parton's Stampede |
Once in Branson, you can’t miss Dolly Parton’s Stampede, the world's most visited dinner show attraction. Combining delicious Southern cuisine with live entertainment, it is quite a spectacle for the whole family!
At Dolly Parton’s Stampede, you'll be treated to a delicious four-course meal while riders perform incredible stunts on horseback. Kick back and witness thrilling equestrian escapades, laugh along with comedic performers, and get lost in captivating musical productions.
The restaurant’s menu boasts the absolute best of Southern comfort food. You can start with the famous creamy vegetable soup or dig straight into juicy rotisserie chicken while enjoying the show. The smoky BBQ pork will have you reaching for seconds, and the classic sides, like corn on the cob and mashed potatoes, will round up the Southern experience.
The Stampede offers unlimited refreshments with your meal, as well as gluten-free and vegetarian options. When making a reservation, make sure to specify your dietary needs.
WHERE: 1525 West Highway 76, Branson, MO 65616 │WHO: 417-336-3000
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3 | Mel’s Hard Luck Diner |
For a fun experience in Branson that you’ll reminisce about over family gatherings, make a stop at Mel's Hard Luck Diner. This lively 1950s-themed place isn't only about delicious comfort food—it's a full-fledged show!
Mel's is famous for its "original singing servers”—all on-site staff are professional singers, songwriters, and musicians. While you savor the classics like the Hard Luck cheeseburger or the juicy High Rollin’ beef pot roast, the talented servers will sing to you throughout your meal.
Kids will love Mel's famous banana split, chocolate nachos, and old-fashioned sodas and ice cream. The atmosphere in this diner is contagious—you’ll find it hard not to sing along as you enjoy your food.
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, Mel's Hard Luck Diner is the perfect stop for lunch, dinner, or even a fun breakfast serenade.
WHERE: 2800 W 76 Country Blvd Ste 103, Branson MO 65616│WHO: 417-332-0150
4 | Gettin’ Basted |
Not your typical slow BBQ joint, Gettin' Basted is an intriguing choice for the whole family. With over 50 barbeque competitions under its belt, this restaurant’s team has been racking up awards for over a decade. Gettin’ Basted serves competition-style, hot & fast-cooked meats like brisket, pulled pork, and incredible smoked chicken.
Kids will love the classics like burgers, chicken, and mac n’ cheese, while adventurous eaters can try Ozarks-style BBQ options like smoked bologna or burnt ends. Don't miss the restaurant’s signature Basted Nachos or the massive Blackout sandwich—a pound of meat smothered in Gettin’ Basted’s famous BBQ sauce.
With a full bar for adults and delicious options for all palates, this restaurant is a fun stop and must-try for families, couples, friends, as well as solo travelers visiting Branson.
WHERE: 2845 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 │WHO: 417-320-6357
5 | McFarlain's Family Restaurant |
If you’re hungry for famous Branson comfort food, head straight to McFarlain's Family Restaurant. Offering a taste of Branson's history and warm hospitality, this charming place is a great rest stop after a fun day of shopping and watching movies. Located inside the IMAX Entertainment Complex, it’s the ideal venue for winding down and planning your next Branson adventure while sharing a meal with your family and friends.
You can start with a basket of McFarlain's famous honey cornbread while you wait for the slow-cooked pot roast, crispy fried chicken, or juicy steaks. Kids will love the special menu, which features favorites such as burgers with fries, pancakes, and sundaes.
Don't miss out on McFarlain's legendary sides—creamy mashed potatoes and gravy are a must-try! Top it all off with a slice of homemade pie or a giant cinnamon roll.
WHERE: 3562 Shepherd of the Hills Expy, Branson, MO 65616│WHO: 417-336-4680
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Use Our Handy Map To Find These Fun Places To Eat Easily!
Branson, MO—Delicious Fun for Every Visitor
From charming Southern restaurants to spectacular live shows, Branson has fun eateries for all visitors. Whether you crave the heartwarming comfort food at McFarlain's or the energetic performances at Dolly Parton's Stampede, Branson delivers.
But the good vibes don’t stop there. Pick a meal to go and spend the day exploring the stunning nature of the Ozarks, munching on delicious food while capturing breathtaking photos along the way.
For more ideas for the ultimate getaway in Branson, visit our Westgate Resorts Travel blog.
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At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your Branson vacation awaits! Explore our Branson resorts today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.
* Aside from Cordovano Joe’s Pizza, Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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