4 Best Restaurants in Branson, Missouri

Whether you have a penchant for all things classic Americana, or you just want a hearty breakfast served with a smile, Billy Gail’s is not to be missed. This roadside diner serves throughout the day, but it's best known for the generously portioned breakfasts, which range from four-egg omelets to buttermilk pancakes larger than the plates on which they are served. From the outside, this place looks like a log cabin; step inside and you’ll find wood-paneled interiors and tables cloaked in red gingham vinyl.

Branson’s best bet for Tex–Mex food, Botana’s extensive menu is proof that you can get a good Mexican meal in the Midwest. Along with the usual burritos and other Mexican restaurant mainstays, Botana’s has Caribbean and Latin American dishes and a wide range of specials, from carne asada (seared, thin-sliced, marinated beef) to a hodgepodge of meat, veggies, and cheese known as the Mexico City Special. It also has quite a number of vegan and gluten-free options. And if you have room after indulging in the generous portions, don’t skip the fried ice cream.

If Branson were to run a contest for the most unusual restaurant in town, Mitsu Neko Fusion Cuisine and Sushi Bar would certainly be a strong contender. This Japanese restaurant is owned by a young Russian couple who are usually on-site to help guests decide what to choose from the large menu. Along with sushi, it serves Westernized Japanese mains and innovative cocktails. Popular dishes include the house-smoked salmon and the blue fire roll; guests also rave about the house-made crème brûlée and the strawberry roll (strawberries and cream arranged to resemble maki).

With its brightly hued furniture, Branson’s Table 22 looks more like a preschool playroom than an upscale restaurant, but looks can be deceiving. This sunny, unabashedly colorful restaurant is one of the chicest spots in town. The menu changes from month to month and includes creative takes on classic dishes from around the world, from swordfish served with rose, apple, and turtle bean to Japanese kabocha-squash cheesecake. If you can’t make up your mind, opt for the chef’s six-course tasting menu, a prix-fixe selection of specialties.