This one is going to be a mixed review. I have been coming to the Outback for as long as I can remember. I have photos of me sitting atop the alligator when I was kid. The decor and great food always kept me coming back. That said...the decor hasn't changed in as long as I can remember. Same stuff, same rustic charm. If your looking for upscale fancy dining, then this isn't for you. The tables are wood and kinda sticky from so many years of dirt and cleaning build up. Stuff is dusty and rusted...it's ok...it's supposed to be that way! You really feel like you walked off the street and into the aussie outback.
Ok, so my first review was when my mom and I decided to stop in one cool day at the beginning of the summer. We chose to sit outside on the patio since it was so nice. The waiter was friendly, the tea good and our hamburgers fresh and tasty. They aren't anything to write home about, but they were basic and good. My husband and I stopped in another day and he ordered the meat pie. He was crazy about it. I didn't taste it but he said it was one of the best things he had ever eaten. It was served with garlic mashed potato's for a side. I got the mushroom swiss burger. Again, nothing super duper, but good. So a few days ago, mom, Jerry and I decided to go there for lunch. He had been craving his meat pie and mom wanted to try it, so in we went. We ate inside this time. Our waiter was nice and seated us quickly and we got our drinks. After that it was a good 15 min. before he came for our order. No big deal, we weren't a hurry. So they ordered their meat pies and I got my mushroom swiss burger again. Now, we waited....and waited...and waited. There were only about 5 tables in the entire place that even had people so they were not remotely busy. After almost an hour, we got our food. While we were waiting two tables near ours had complaints. One table never got their fries, and another had to send something back. It was not boding well. So our food is placed in front of us and right away they saw one problem. They had fries instead of the garlic potato's. This was not a choice on the menu even...it said it came with the mashed potato's. So they flagged down the waiter. He apologized and went to get potato's. I opened my burger to put some toppings on and noticed that my bun was hard as a rock. I'm not exaggerating here either...it was rock hard all the way through. Totally inedible. So when he came back with the potato's I told him about the bun. He went away and came back with a nice fresh bun. So I swapped it out...of course this whole time my fries were setting there getting cold, but still edible. So I take a bite of my burger. EWE!! It was hard, and dry. NO flavor at all. It was like trying to eat sawdust. At this point I was getting upset. We had been in the restaurant over an hour and half and I was yet to get food. So again the waiter was summoned. I told him, and he took it back. Mom and Jerry went on eating but the meat pies were no where near what they had been the other time. He said the flavor wasn't at all the same. They were more like hamburger with lite seasoning shoved in a crust. Mom wasn't any more impressed. They finished their meal and I was still waiting...at this point over a half hour had gone by. TWO HOURS and still no food. We had other things to do besides sit there. Finally I had enough and told the waiter to just bring our check without mine on it. We were done. He said it shouldn't be much longer and he would put it in a to go box. It was over a hundred degrees outside...the last thing I wanted to do was eat substandard food in the car on the go. I informed him that if I had wanted take out I would have gone to McDonalds. He didn't argue any more and brought the check. It was over 24.00 without mine....so they are way too pricey for the food they serve. We left...me hungry as heck and royally peeved. I won't be going back there again. The food, even on a good day, isn't all that great and the prices are outrageous for what you get. 10.00 for a burger and fries...that had better be a good burger!!!
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Silver Dollar City
Ok, ok...I know Silver Dollar City isn't a restaurant, BUT it has so many places to eat that I felt I need to mention it. We spent two days there (one is just not enough). Of course I haven't tried EVERYTHING but I sure gave it a good try :D.
First off, get there early and check out breakfast. There is a bakery that makes their items from scratch. I got a giant cinnamon roll with caramel and pecans. They don't just put a few pecans on it either. It was completely covered! Day two I got a sausage roll. Oh man was that good. Soft warm dough with a not too spicy sausage. My mom got a cherry danish and this cheese thing. I didn't try the danish, but by the speed that it was eaten, I would say it was good! I did get to try the cheese thing and it was amazing. I have gotten some of their homemade breads, cupcakes, cookies...etc...and never had anything that wasn't good. There is also a buffet that I have been told was good but haven't eaten there yet!
Now for before lunch snacks...(Yes, pre lunch has to happen there) we stopped and got a pretzel wrapped footlong hot dog. OMG.....Never tasted a homemade soft pretzel like that!! Holy cow, that was good!! Soft and salty and amazing. There are snacks all over the park. Slushies, kettle corn ( Got the red white and blue and it's awesome), dippin dots, blueberry icecream (also to die for), roasted corn on the cob, spiral potatoes on a stick and don't forget to top the day off with a funnel cake!
If your wanting something a bit heartier, check out one of the restaurants on park. Home cookin at it's finest!(my favorite is lumber camp) You can set by a big waterfall while you eat and feed the squirrels french fries! How cool is that? Home cookin' at it's finest! No matter what you try, you can't leave the park hungry. And of course don't forget the candy! (pictures are internet photos and not my property, for demonstrative purposes only)
First off, get there early and check out breakfast. There is a bakery that makes their items from scratch. I got a giant cinnamon roll with caramel and pecans. They don't just put a few pecans on it either. It was completely covered! Day two I got a sausage roll. Oh man was that good. Soft warm dough with a not too spicy sausage. My mom got a cherry danish and this cheese thing. I didn't try the danish, but by the speed that it was eaten, I would say it was good! I did get to try the cheese thing and it was amazing. I have gotten some of their homemade breads, cupcakes, cookies...etc...and never had anything that wasn't good. There is also a buffet that I have been told was good but haven't eaten there yet!
Now for before lunch snacks...(Yes, pre lunch has to happen there) we stopped and got a pretzel wrapped footlong hot dog. OMG.....Never tasted a homemade soft pretzel like that!! Holy cow, that was good!! Soft and salty and amazing. There are snacks all over the park. Slushies, kettle corn ( Got the red white and blue and it's awesome), dippin dots, blueberry icecream (also to die for), roasted corn on the cob, spiral potatoes on a stick and don't forget to top the day off with a funnel cake!
If your wanting something a bit heartier, check out one of the restaurants on park. Home cookin at it's finest!(my favorite is lumber camp) You can set by a big waterfall while you eat and feed the squirrels french fries! How cool is that? Home cookin' at it's finest! No matter what you try, you can't leave the park hungry. And of course don't forget the candy! (pictures are internet photos and not my property, for demonstrative purposes only)
Greek Gyros & Deli (111 east main street near the landing)
Wow, what a hidden little gem this was!!
My mom and I were wanting to explore the downtown and came across this small, nondescript looking building nestled between other shops. Mom loves gyros and I was ready to try something new, so we went in. The Inside was really neatly decorated in old style Greek decor. Many photos also adorn the walls of the owners family. The place was virtually empty so we really got to look around.
We sat down to pour over the menu. I was surprised at the low prices. Salads range from 3.99 to 5.99. Sandwiches range from 3.99-7.99 (gyros are only 5.99). Sides/appetizers are 3.99. Drinks 1.69. Ice cream or baklava 2.50. There isn't a ton of things t choose from, but should suit most. They also have hot dogs and pizza for the kids. (1.99-2.99)
Mom and I decided to try an order of Dolmas/stuffed grape leaves. We had no idea what we were in for. They served this yummy looking little bundles of seasoned meat wrapped in tender grape leaves and served with a sauce. I could have sat there and ate them all day. Granted, I don't have others to compare them to, but if they got any better I would have never left the place! That sauce was amazing itself. Almost a ranch flavor but not really...hard to compare it to anything... Anyway, moving on, (and I didn't want to), to sandwiches! Mom got a gyro and I got the pastrami. The gyro looked great and she said it melted in her mouth. I did taste the meat and it was super tender. The pastrami was grilled with Swiss and stacked with meat. The flavor was unrivaled. They came with potato salad, and I'm not much of a potato salad fan, but let me tell you, there was not a drop left. It was beyond good. I wish I could explain the flavors to you, but all I can say is, go and try it yourself!
(please note, that these are not my images. They are web images and not my property)
My mom and I were wanting to explore the downtown and came across this small, nondescript looking building nestled between other shops. Mom loves gyros and I was ready to try something new, so we went in. The Inside was really neatly decorated in old style Greek decor. Many photos also adorn the walls of the owners family. The place was virtually empty so we really got to look around.
We sat down to pour over the menu. I was surprised at the low prices. Salads range from 3.99 to 5.99. Sandwiches range from 3.99-7.99 (gyros are only 5.99). Sides/appetizers are 3.99. Drinks 1.69. Ice cream or baklava 2.50. There isn't a ton of things t choose from, but should suit most. They also have hot dogs and pizza for the kids. (1.99-2.99)
Mom and I decided to try an order of Dolmas/stuffed grape leaves. We had no idea what we were in for. They served this yummy looking little bundles of seasoned meat wrapped in tender grape leaves and served with a sauce. I could have sat there and ate them all day. Granted, I don't have others to compare them to, but if they got any better I would have never left the place! That sauce was amazing itself. Almost a ranch flavor but not really...hard to compare it to anything... Anyway, moving on, (and I didn't want to), to sandwiches! Mom got a gyro and I got the pastrami. The gyro looked great and she said it melted in her mouth. I did taste the meat and it was super tender. The pastrami was grilled with Swiss and stacked with meat. The flavor was unrivaled. They came with potato salad, and I'm not much of a potato salad fan, but let me tell you, there was not a drop left. It was beyond good. I wish I could explain the flavors to you, but all I can say is, go and try it yourself!
(please note, that these are not my images. They are web images and not my property)
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Grand Country Buffet...Lunch
Heya all! If your reading this then you are probably wondering if you should try Grand Country! Well, that depends....how hungry are you?? You need to bring a big appetite for lots of down home, country cookin!
Items like fried chicken, chicken pot pie, corn nuggets, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, carrots, rolls, and tons more adorn a steaming hot buffet. You can even start off with a chef salad if you want! And don't forget to save room for desert. Their cobbler is to die for. Hungry Yet? If your afraid of breaking the bank, don't worry there! It's only 9.99 for lunch! That's an awesome price for all you can eat! Theres plenty of seating so bring the whole family. Then go shop at some of the neat little stores right outside in the same building. Or maybe catch a round of mini golf to help shed a few of the pounds you just put on eating all that good food.
There is bound to be something for everyone here. The kids enjoy being able to choose from a variety and of course, they love the ice cream! Adults can enjoy the neat antiques and collectables that decorate the walls. For some it may even bring back a fond memory from their own childhood and make them feel a little bit young again. This place really embodies what Branson is all about. Good food, good friends and good fun!
Items like fried chicken, chicken pot pie, corn nuggets, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, carrots, rolls, and tons more adorn a steaming hot buffet. You can even start off with a chef salad if you want! And don't forget to save room for desert. Their cobbler is to die for. Hungry Yet? If your afraid of breaking the bank, don't worry there! It's only 9.99 for lunch! That's an awesome price for all you can eat! Theres plenty of seating so bring the whole family. Then go shop at some of the neat little stores right outside in the same building. Or maybe catch a round of mini golf to help shed a few of the pounds you just put on eating all that good food.
There is bound to be something for everyone here. The kids enjoy being able to choose from a variety and of course, they love the ice cream! Adults can enjoy the neat antiques and collectables that decorate the walls. For some it may even bring back a fond memory from their own childhood and make them feel a little bit young again. This place really embodies what Branson is all about. Good food, good friends and good fun!
Friday, June 27, 2014
Florentina's Ristorante
My husband won a 10.00 gift certificate to this Italian place so we decided to try it. We went on a weekend in the evening and it was lined all the way out the door, so we gave up and tried again today for lunch. It was about 2pm. so very few people. Now when it comes to decor, this place has it going on. You really feel like your walking into some Tuscan village or something. Beautiful hand painted artwork on the walls, running water fountains, grapes and vines hanging from trellises on the ceiling...plus much more. It really is a beautiful place.
We were asked if we wanted a table or booth and due to the smallness of the booths, we went with a table. Now I have to say the chairs could have been more comfortable. They were simple wood chairs with no padding at all. The booths were just a wooden bench that resembled a church pew. That said, they were at least sturdy. Each table has a bottle of olive oil on and they quickly come to take drink orders and serve a small loaf of bread and a dipping plate. I'm not sure what was in it, but it was oil, some kind of dark vinegar and herbs. I really didn't care for it, but my husband liked it. The bread was ok, but very hard. It was more akin to a french bread. You really had to soak it in the sauce to eat it easy. I guess I am spoiled with Olive Garden when it comes to the bread.
Ok, so to the menu. We were there in time for the lunch menu and could order from it or the dinner one. After looking at prices, we went with the lunch one. There were only a few choices of entrees on the lunch menu. I believe there are 6 things to choose from plus several kinds of oven fired pizza. I ordered the RIGATONI FLORENTINA
(Grilled chicken, mushrooms, onions, broccoli, artichoke hearts, sundried tomatoes, fresh basil, capers, kalamata olives and garlic - all sauted in olive oil, with rigatoni, tossed in a tomato cream sauce and finished with our house cheese blend.) Jerry had the Chicken Parmesan. They were both 8.99 and did not come with soup or salad which was very disappointing. The price for the same entree at dinner was twenty something. The dinner prices in general were in the twenty range. It's what I would consider a very high dollar restaurant. I wasn't impressed. I am very glad I didn't spend more than I did because it tasted very odd. NOW, I am not saying that the next person might not love it. It was very well cooked. There was just too many flavors fighting to control the dish. None of it blended very well together and sauce tasted like a vodka sauce even thought it said it was supposed to have a tomato cream sauce. I have never liked vodka based sauces so that was part of the problem. Jerry didn't care much for his chicken parm. either. It didn't even look appetizing. Kinda like a heated tv dinner version is what it looked like. On the positive side he said it was real chicken breast and not a patty version. The sauce, however, was like pure tomato paste. It was thick and very lacking in spices. It really looked and tasted like someone opened a can of tomato paste, heated it and put it on. So all in all the food was really not that great for the prices they charge.
We were asked if we wanted a table or booth and due to the smallness of the booths, we went with a table. Now I have to say the chairs could have been more comfortable. They were simple wood chairs with no padding at all. The booths were just a wooden bench that resembled a church pew. That said, they were at least sturdy. Each table has a bottle of olive oil on and they quickly come to take drink orders and serve a small loaf of bread and a dipping plate. I'm not sure what was in it, but it was oil, some kind of dark vinegar and herbs. I really didn't care for it, but my husband liked it. The bread was ok, but very hard. It was more akin to a french bread. You really had to soak it in the sauce to eat it easy. I guess I am spoiled with Olive Garden when it comes to the bread.
Ok, so to the menu. We were there in time for the lunch menu and could order from it or the dinner one. After looking at prices, we went with the lunch one. There were only a few choices of entrees on the lunch menu. I believe there are 6 things to choose from plus several kinds of oven fired pizza. I ordered the RIGATONI FLORENTINA
(Grilled chicken, mushrooms, onions, broccoli, artichoke hearts, sundried tomatoes, fresh basil, capers, kalamata olives and garlic - all sauted in olive oil, with rigatoni, tossed in a tomato cream sauce and finished with our house cheese blend.) Jerry had the Chicken Parmesan. They were both 8.99 and did not come with soup or salad which was very disappointing. The price for the same entree at dinner was twenty something. The dinner prices in general were in the twenty range. It's what I would consider a very high dollar restaurant. I wasn't impressed. I am very glad I didn't spend more than I did because it tasted very odd. NOW, I am not saying that the next person might not love it. It was very well cooked. There was just too many flavors fighting to control the dish. None of it blended very well together and sauce tasted like a vodka sauce even thought it said it was supposed to have a tomato cream sauce. I have never liked vodka based sauces so that was part of the problem. Jerry didn't care much for his chicken parm. either. It didn't even look appetizing. Kinda like a heated tv dinner version is what it looked like. On the positive side he said it was real chicken breast and not a patty version. The sauce, however, was like pure tomato paste. It was thick and very lacking in spices. It really looked and tasted like someone opened a can of tomato paste, heated it and put it on. So all in all the food was really not that great for the prices they charge.
I feel bad for leaving a bad review as I know this place is very popular here. As I have said before, this is just our experience and yours may be a great one. If you have the money, give it a try and hope that your like it better than we did.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Vasken's Deli The Return
Well, I have blogged about Vasken's before but I felt I needed to update. About a year ago they moved to a new location at 3200 Gretna Road Suite 100. The building is much larger and can accommodate more people. I can't say I like the new building anywhere near as much as the old one. It just doesn't have that old world charm that the first place had. We went there shortly after they opened in the new location and the food wasn't really all that great so we hadn't gone back until today. Long story short we decided to give it a try as I craved the taste of their food and was really hoping they had gotten back in the swing of things. I am very glad that we did! The food was excellent and every bit as exceptional as I had hoped. I didn't get a lot into the actual food the last time as I was stuck on the decor. The decorations here, as I said, leave something to be desired, but go for the food.
My husband ordered a Gyro
and I got the Rosa's Mediterranean turkey. The meat is delicious but it's really the sauces and toppings that set them apart from anything I have ever tasted. Mine had a garlic mayonnaise and this olive salad stuff they make there themselves. It is really difficult to explain in terms of taste, because there just isn't anything like it. It has green olives and spices, but it is not overpowering at all. I don't care for raw veggies on sandwiches but this had green peppers, onions, tomatoes and lettus. They don't just toss on veggies. They chop them small and then marinade them in something. I have no clue what, but I could have eaten a whole salad of it. All of the flavors marry together so well that your taste buds start dancing. They wrap it all in a soft pita bread. Not sure if they make it there or not but it is super soft and out of this world. One bite and I was yumming!! They aren't small either. I was hungry, but it totally filled me up. I tasted my husbands gyro meat and was shocked that it was so good. I had never tasted anything like it before and really liked it. I may try it the next time I go. I am going to include the link to their website so you can go check out their menu for yourself. And don't worry if you don't like something that is on a sandwich. they are very accommodating and don't mind adding something or taking something away.
You get to choose a side as well from several things. We both got the pasta salad. It comes in a small container and at first your like...wait...that's all there is? But it's really good and rich and is all you need. Trust me, you will be more into the sandwich! They have pizza too and all kinds of deserts like baklava.
I haven't tried those yet! If you go and try something new, please post here. I would love to see your reviews as well.
Now for the last part of this place. It sells all kinds of foods from foreign lands. CHEAP! I'm serious....Huge things of imported olive oil for under 10.00....and many many other things.
I got a huge sleeve of cookies from Holland to take the kids since they didn't happen to be with us. They cost 2.99 and there were about 25 in it. I figured they would be stale or taste gross, but surprisingly they were really good. Deep chocolate flavor in every bite! They have rice, chocolates, candies, spices etc. Even a hookah!
At any rate, even if the decor is less than spectacular, the food MORE than makes up for it. If your wanting to send your taste buds on an adventure, then this is a great stop! Visit their website and facebook page to learn more!
http://www.vaskensdeli.com/locations/
(Please note that these photos are not my property. They are web photo's and photo's from the Vaskins website.)
My husband ordered a Gyro
and I got the Rosa's Mediterranean turkey. The meat is delicious but it's really the sauces and toppings that set them apart from anything I have ever tasted. Mine had a garlic mayonnaise and this olive salad stuff they make there themselves. It is really difficult to explain in terms of taste, because there just isn't anything like it. It has green olives and spices, but it is not overpowering at all. I don't care for raw veggies on sandwiches but this had green peppers, onions, tomatoes and lettus. They don't just toss on veggies. They chop them small and then marinade them in something. I have no clue what, but I could have eaten a whole salad of it. All of the flavors marry together so well that your taste buds start dancing. They wrap it all in a soft pita bread. Not sure if they make it there or not but it is super soft and out of this world. One bite and I was yumming!! They aren't small either. I was hungry, but it totally filled me up. I tasted my husbands gyro meat and was shocked that it was so good. I had never tasted anything like it before and really liked it. I may try it the next time I go. I am going to include the link to their website so you can go check out their menu for yourself. And don't worry if you don't like something that is on a sandwich. they are very accommodating and don't mind adding something or taking something away. You get to choose a side as well from several things. We both got the pasta salad. It comes in a small container and at first your like...wait...that's all there is? But it's really good and rich and is all you need. Trust me, you will be more into the sandwich! They have pizza too and all kinds of deserts like baklava.
I haven't tried those yet! If you go and try something new, please post here. I would love to see your reviews as well. Now for the last part of this place. It sells all kinds of foods from foreign lands. CHEAP! I'm serious....Huge things of imported olive oil for under 10.00....and many many other things.
I got a huge sleeve of cookies from Holland to take the kids since they didn't happen to be with us. They cost 2.99 and there were about 25 in it. I figured they would be stale or taste gross, but surprisingly they were really good. Deep chocolate flavor in every bite! They have rice, chocolates, candies, spices etc. Even a hookah! At any rate, even if the decor is less than spectacular, the food MORE than makes up for it. If your wanting to send your taste buds on an adventure, then this is a great stop! Visit their website and facebook page to learn more!
http://www.vaskensdeli.com/locations/
(Please note that these photos are not my property. They are web photo's and photo's from the Vaskins website.)
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Lamberts
Ok, so I know this isn't exactly IN Branson, but it's such a short drive, and it is totally worth the gas money! The restaurant is located in Ozark about a half an hour from Branson up 65 highway north. The restaurant itself has some pretty eclectic décor. All kinds of flags hang from the ceiling from state flags, to countries. There are pictures and licence plates adorning the walls, and even a miniature train that runs around and entertains the kids. There are all sorts of fun things to see when you visit, so I will leave that up to you!
To start you off they bring out your drink in a big mug.
Or if you order coffee it comes in a smaller version. These are great because you don't have to worry about refills every five min.! Then you have to order your main meal. Yes, I said the "main" meal but I'll get into the rest in a moment. Your meal consists of an entree and a couple of sides. This is down home country cooking. My husband got the chicken fried steak and it came in a skillet and was HUGE!
There is everything from meatloaf to fried chicken and plenty in between. The sides are pretty nice too. You can go with veggies or potatoes along with some more off the wall choices like cucumbers and onions. Now, I mentioned something other than your main meal. They call them pass arounds! The servers come around randomly with huge pots of fried okra, fried potatoes, tomatoes and macaroni, black eyed peas and more.
Now as good as that all is, that isn't what keeps people coming time and time again or spending hours in line just to get in. They come for the throwed rolls!!! They make the most delicious rolls you can imagine and they pull them right out of the oven and wheel them onto the floor. If you are ready for a roll you just hold up your hands and the very talented roll servers will toss them to you! They don't walk by and hand them out, no, they launch them to you! This makes for some really fun dining. Sometimes they miss and smack the floor, or they hit something and bounce onto the wrong table. On our last visit the guy tossed a roll to my daughter but it hit a flag on its way and konked me in the head! Of course everyone laughed, but that is half of the fun of this place! If your mama taught you not to play with your food, then don't bring her here! Oh, I almost forgot one very important part. Sorghum Molasses for your rolls! This stuff is sinful. Somewhere between honey and molasses. It's delicious so don't miss out on this delicacy.
Now some might worry that this will cost a fortune. I find that you can figure around 15.00 a person by the time you add in a drink. Most of the meals are around 12.-- some higher, some lower. So while it sure isn't McDonalds value menu, your getting what you pay for! This isn't just a place to eat. It's really dinner and show too. So if your visiting Branson on your vacation, do your family a favor and make this short drive. You won't regret it!
(Please note that these are stock photos and I do not own the rights to them. Thank you!)
To start you off they bring out your drink in a big mug.
Or if you order coffee it comes in a smaller version. These are great because you don't have to worry about refills every five min.! Then you have to order your main meal. Yes, I said the "main" meal but I'll get into the rest in a moment. Your meal consists of an entree and a couple of sides. This is down home country cooking. My husband got the chicken fried steak and it came in a skillet and was HUGE!
There is everything from meatloaf to fried chicken and plenty in between. The sides are pretty nice too. You can go with veggies or potatoes along with some more off the wall choices like cucumbers and onions. Now, I mentioned something other than your main meal. They call them pass arounds! The servers come around randomly with huge pots of fried okra, fried potatoes, tomatoes and macaroni, black eyed peas and more.
Now as good as that all is, that isn't what keeps people coming time and time again or spending hours in line just to get in. They come for the throwed rolls!!! They make the most delicious rolls you can imagine and they pull them right out of the oven and wheel them onto the floor. If you are ready for a roll you just hold up your hands and the very talented roll servers will toss them to you! They don't walk by and hand them out, no, they launch them to you! This makes for some really fun dining. Sometimes they miss and smack the floor, or they hit something and bounce onto the wrong table. On our last visit the guy tossed a roll to my daughter but it hit a flag on its way and konked me in the head! Of course everyone laughed, but that is half of the fun of this place! If your mama taught you not to play with your food, then don't bring her here! Oh, I almost forgot one very important part. Sorghum Molasses for your rolls! This stuff is sinful. Somewhere between honey and molasses. It's delicious so don't miss out on this delicacy.
Now some might worry that this will cost a fortune. I find that you can figure around 15.00 a person by the time you add in a drink. Most of the meals are around 12.-- some higher, some lower. So while it sure isn't McDonalds value menu, your getting what you pay for! This isn't just a place to eat. It's really dinner and show too. So if your visiting Branson on your vacation, do your family a favor and make this short drive. You won't regret it!
(Please note that these are stock photos and I do not own the rights to them. Thank you!)
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Cracker Barrel
This was our first time at the Cracker Barrel in Branson, located at the west end of the strip. I have been to them before in other towns, but not this one.
The neat thing about this restaurant is that is has a shop in the front. You can get fun toys for the kids (or even yourself) along with neat novelties, clothes, and candy! They sell unique candies from the early days like chuckles and clove gum! At any rate, you can shop around if you like or head on into the dining area.
The dining area is large with plenty of seating, even for groups. Decorated with old photographs, antiques and metal signs, its really neat. The chairs are wooden, but sturdy and don't have arms to them so anyone can have a comfortable evening. There are fun old time peg games on the tables to keep you entertained while you wait and oil lamps burning on each table for a romantic dining experience. But enough about all that, ON TO THE FOOD!!
You get two menus in the evening and one in the morning. You can choose between breakfast , which is served all day, and lunch or dinner. They have lunch specials and dinner specials. The food is what I would call good downhome country cookin. Fried okra, chicken n dumplins, fresh biscuts, country ham, grits, cheesy hash browns, buttermilk dipped fried chicken, and the list goes on. Most entrees come with your choice of 2 or 3 sides. You get a LOT of everything and if you leave there hungry, then you didn't try. They have a kids menu, and even a low calorie menu. I got buttermilk battered shrimp w/ hushpuppies, dumplins (the side version is just the dumplins minus the chicken), fried okra and steamed broccoli. It came with a biscut and cornbread. I ate about half and was so stuffed I waddled out. Everything is seasoned perfectly, cooked to order and always fresh and hot. No complaints here at all! My friend got a "house salad" and was expecting a small bowl of lettus with a few tomatoes. This large bowl came topped with all kinds of stuff. It looked like a chef salad. He was impressed.
Now on to price. As you know most places in Branson are going to cost you quite a bit to eat there. This is actually one of the cheaper places to eat. The entrees range in price from 7-10 with a few being a bit higher. Most fall around the 8-9 range. The shrimp dinner was 10. Were not talking five or six shrimp, there was a good half pound on that plate! You get your moneys worth, trust me. If I had to find a complaint, it would be the service. It wasn't bad so don't get me wrong, but they seemed hurried and you had to catch one to get refills. Otherwise they were fine. At any rate, you can't go wrong here. Kids love it for the fun, adults love it for the food and price and seniors love it for the nostalgia.
Here is the official cracker barrel website http://www.crackerbarrel.com/restaurant/ . You can find tons of info on the restaurant as well as view a menu ahead of time! Happy eating!
(Please note, I do not own the photos or website.)
The neat thing about this restaurant is that is has a shop in the front. You can get fun toys for the kids (or even yourself) along with neat novelties, clothes, and candy! They sell unique candies from the early days like chuckles and clove gum! At any rate, you can shop around if you like or head on into the dining area.
The dining area is large with plenty of seating, even for groups. Decorated with old photographs, antiques and metal signs, its really neat. The chairs are wooden, but sturdy and don't have arms to them so anyone can have a comfortable evening. There are fun old time peg games on the tables to keep you entertained while you wait and oil lamps burning on each table for a romantic dining experience. But enough about all that, ON TO THE FOOD!!
You get two menus in the evening and one in the morning. You can choose between breakfast , which is served all day, and lunch or dinner. They have lunch specials and dinner specials. The food is what I would call good downhome country cookin. Fried okra, chicken n dumplins, fresh biscuts, country ham, grits, cheesy hash browns, buttermilk dipped fried chicken, and the list goes on. Most entrees come with your choice of 2 or 3 sides. You get a LOT of everything and if you leave there hungry, then you didn't try. They have a kids menu, and even a low calorie menu. I got buttermilk battered shrimp w/ hushpuppies, dumplins (the side version is just the dumplins minus the chicken), fried okra and steamed broccoli. It came with a biscut and cornbread. I ate about half and was so stuffed I waddled out. Everything is seasoned perfectly, cooked to order and always fresh and hot. No complaints here at all! My friend got a "house salad" and was expecting a small bowl of lettus with a few tomatoes. This large bowl came topped with all kinds of stuff. It looked like a chef salad. He was impressed.
Now on to price. As you know most places in Branson are going to cost you quite a bit to eat there. This is actually one of the cheaper places to eat. The entrees range in price from 7-10 with a few being a bit higher. Most fall around the 8-9 range. The shrimp dinner was 10. Were not talking five or six shrimp, there was a good half pound on that plate! You get your moneys worth, trust me. If I had to find a complaint, it would be the service. It wasn't bad so don't get me wrong, but they seemed hurried and you had to catch one to get refills. Otherwise they were fine. At any rate, you can't go wrong here. Kids love it for the fun, adults love it for the food and price and seniors love it for the nostalgia.
Here is the official cracker barrel website http://www.crackerbarrel.com/restaurant/ . You can find tons of info on the restaurant as well as view a menu ahead of time! Happy eating!
(Please note, I do not own the photos or website.)
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Dixie Stampede
Ready for a spectacular dinner and show? Look no further! This show really has it all. You want to get there early so you can really get your money's worth. Spend time strolling along the barn area so you can see the horses up close. (Kids love this part). Then you can go to a pre-show that usually starts an hour prior show time. Make sure to ask about the exact time when purchasing your tickets. Tickets can be purchased at the time of the show, but I don't recommend waiting as they sell out often. Also, take advantage of the many places selling discounted show tickets in Branson. They often come with very few strings attached. Sometimes you have to tour a resort (they try to sell you timeshare, but if you don't want it, they aren't pushy). At any rate, even if you pay full price, it is worth it.
I'm getting a bit out of order here, so I will try to get back to it. So you go to the pre show. This takes place in a large Carriage room. There is a small stage right in the middle of room so everyone has good seats. We sat right next to the stage and that really got interesting! The pre show entertainment varies from time to time. Ours was a fantastic juggler/comedian. His act was really incredible and was almost worth the price of admission alone. Now, unless you have money to blow, I don't recommend buying drinks like coke at the preshow. For two cokes in a take home plastic mug, it cost 11.00. Refills are not free either. After the preshow you head to the main arena to be seated. It really doesn't matter too much where you are seated as the "stage" is right in the middle and the seats are all the way around in a horseshoe shape. This picture can give you an idea of what I mean.
You set pretty much elbow to elbow with the people next to you, but I am a large person and was plenty comfortable. The audience is split into two sides..the north and the south. If you are picky about which side you want on, you have to tell them when you buy tickets. I was a bit annoyed at the whole north vs. south thing as it glamorized and the war was anything but glamorous. Looking past that part, it was a great experience. The lights dim and the show begins. Waiters and waitresses come around with drinks, tea or coke. (These you don't pay extra for and free refills). Then they come around with soup. You drink it from a handled bowl as there are NO utensils here. You eat with your hands! The soup was a creamed vegetable soup which sounded kinda gross to me, but it was so out of this world good I wanted to lick the bowl! (They sell it in their gift shop too) After that they come around with your main course. It may change throughout the year, but ours was roasted pork tenderloin, a whole chicken, a half potato baked and seasoned, and an ear of corn on the cob. Let me tell you something...there was nothing but bones on my plate when I got through. It was super good food. And there is no way you leave hungry. My husband has bad teeth and was really worried if he could eat the food, but it was all so well done that he had no trouble at all. Desert comes around last and was an apple turnover. It was also very good but after all the other food, there just wasn't room for all of it.
While your eating the show is going on in the arena. The acts vary throughout the year. There are stunt riders, comedians, dancers, and even audience participation acts. You cheer, stomp, and clap your head off. It really gets you into the show. Though at times it was really hard to clap when you had your hands full of food, but you manage! Overall, I highly recommend this as a stop on your next Branson vacation.
(Please note, I did not take the above photo, but found it on the web. I do not own it in any way.)
I'm getting a bit out of order here, so I will try to get back to it. So you go to the pre show. This takes place in a large Carriage room. There is a small stage right in the middle of room so everyone has good seats. We sat right next to the stage and that really got interesting! The pre show entertainment varies from time to time. Ours was a fantastic juggler/comedian. His act was really incredible and was almost worth the price of admission alone. Now, unless you have money to blow, I don't recommend buying drinks like coke at the preshow. For two cokes in a take home plastic mug, it cost 11.00. Refills are not free either. After the preshow you head to the main arena to be seated. It really doesn't matter too much where you are seated as the "stage" is right in the middle and the seats are all the way around in a horseshoe shape. This picture can give you an idea of what I mean.
You set pretty much elbow to elbow with the people next to you, but I am a large person and was plenty comfortable. The audience is split into two sides..the north and the south. If you are picky about which side you want on, you have to tell them when you buy tickets. I was a bit annoyed at the whole north vs. south thing as it glamorized and the war was anything but glamorous. Looking past that part, it was a great experience. The lights dim and the show begins. Waiters and waitresses come around with drinks, tea or coke. (These you don't pay extra for and free refills). Then they come around with soup. You drink it from a handled bowl as there are NO utensils here. You eat with your hands! The soup was a creamed vegetable soup which sounded kinda gross to me, but it was so out of this world good I wanted to lick the bowl! (They sell it in their gift shop too) After that they come around with your main course. It may change throughout the year, but ours was roasted pork tenderloin, a whole chicken, a half potato baked and seasoned, and an ear of corn on the cob. Let me tell you something...there was nothing but bones on my plate when I got through. It was super good food. And there is no way you leave hungry. My husband has bad teeth and was really worried if he could eat the food, but it was all so well done that he had no trouble at all. Desert comes around last and was an apple turnover. It was also very good but after all the other food, there just wasn't room for all of it. While your eating the show is going on in the arena. The acts vary throughout the year. There are stunt riders, comedians, dancers, and even audience participation acts. You cheer, stomp, and clap your head off. It really gets you into the show. Though at times it was really hard to clap when you had your hands full of food, but you manage! Overall, I highly recommend this as a stop on your next Branson vacation.
(Please note, I did not take the above photo, but found it on the web. I do not own it in any way.)
Chili's (Branson Hills Parkway)
Chili's is one of the best places to eat in Branson. The food is consistently delicious, hot, and served by caring, friendly employees. I usually get the "triple dipper" since you can choose three great items for 10.00. I am in love with the sliders! I get them just about every time. They are a mini burger topped with cheese, bacon, and cooked onions. Two come in the triple dipper or if your really hungry, 4 are in a meal. I also get the boneless honey chipotle wings and the Southwestern egg rolls.Don't be fooled by the name as they are nothing like a Chinese egg roll. 
You can also chose from boneless buffalo wings, original chicken crispers, loaded potato skins 
and spinach artichoke dip. Another favorite of my family is the chips and salsa.
They are really cheap as appetizers go at around 3.50 and they are endless. They have many other appetizers that are equally good as a snack, appetizer or meal! Try the new table side guacamole sometime. It is really good and they come out and make it fresh at your table! Dinner and mini show. The kids don't eat it, but they beg us to get it so they get to watch.
On a budget? Try the 2 for 20.00 special. You choose an appetizer to share and each choose an entrée. We got this the last time in. We ordered the spinach artichoke dip (It's to die for) and both got fajitas. Seriously, where can you get fajitas for two and an appetizer for twenty bucks? They don't skimp on the meat either. Mine was loaded with chicken and he got the beef. I don't usually like pork, but tasted his and it was delicious. They come with several toppings.
My only complaint that night was that they had ran out of bell peppers and fixed mine without them. (Husband ordered his without anyway) I was a bit upset as they are one of my favorite parts. Not only did they offer to let me order something else, but took 20% off our ticket for the error. I chose to go ahead and keep them because they looked way to good to send back. I was not disappointed! For a dollar more you can get rice and black beans too. We don't take the kids in a lot because we use it for our date night a lot, but when we do, they are always treated great and have many items that kids love. They even get a coloring mat and crayons to keep them busy while the food is being prepared. Even on busy nights the food is served pretty quickly.
And we can't forget our thirst!! If you like mixed drinks, then this is the place for you. They have a very nice bar area where you can relax and have a beer while watching your favorite game on tv. You can sit at the bar or choose a table or booth. If sports aren't your thing, then you can always order a drink in the main restaurant too! If your wanting non alcoholic, they can help you out there too. They carry coke products and have specialty drinks such as the watermelon or strawberry lemonade. (I get them every time)
.
Plus most of the non alcoholic drinks are free refills.
Did you save room for desert? I sure hope so, because they have some of the most decedent deserts out there! On mothers day I had a coupon for a free one and got the chocolate lava cake. My husband and I both tried, but wound up leaving half on the plate. IT WAS HUGE!
There are of course many other choices. If your one of those people that never have room for desert then stop by sometime and order one for lunch! (Don't worry, I won't tell on you.)
If your planning a trip there soon make sure you go online and sign up at their website for promotions. They send me an e-mail about once every one or two weeks for a free desert, appetizer or kids meal! If you have a smart phone you can just show them the e-mail from your phone and get the freebie. This only works with the purchase of an adult entrée though, so keep that in mind. Just stop by Chilis.com and get signed up for free! They also have a mobile app, but I haven't tried it out yet. Happy Eating!
(Please note that all prices, and menu items are subject to change at any time. These are my opinions and those of my family. All photos were taken directly from the Chilis.com and I do not own them.)
You can also chose from boneless buffalo wings, original chicken crispers, loaded potato skins and spinach artichoke dip. Another favorite of my family is the chips and salsa. They are really cheap as appetizers go at around 3.50 and they are endless. They have many other appetizers that are equally good as a snack, appetizer or meal! Try the new table side guacamole sometime. It is really good and they come out and make it fresh at your table! Dinner and mini show. The kids don't eat it, but they beg us to get it so they get to watch.On a budget? Try the 2 for 20.00 special. You choose an appetizer to share and each choose an entrée. We got this the last time in. We ordered the spinach artichoke dip (It's to die for) and both got fajitas. Seriously, where can you get fajitas for two and an appetizer for twenty bucks? They don't skimp on the meat either. Mine was loaded with chicken and he got the beef. I don't usually like pork, but tasted his and it was delicious. They come with several toppings. My only complaint that night was that they had ran out of bell peppers and fixed mine without them. (Husband ordered his without anyway) I was a bit upset as they are one of my favorite parts. Not only did they offer to let me order something else, but took 20% off our ticket for the error. I chose to go ahead and keep them because they looked way to good to send back. I was not disappointed! For a dollar more you can get rice and black beans too. We don't take the kids in a lot because we use it for our date night a lot, but when we do, they are always treated great and have many items that kids love. They even get a coloring mat and crayons to keep them busy while the food is being prepared. Even on busy nights the food is served pretty quickly. And we can't forget our thirst!! If you like mixed drinks, then this is the place for you. They have a very nice bar area where you can relax and have a beer while watching your favorite game on tv. You can sit at the bar or choose a table or booth. If sports aren't your thing, then you can always order a drink in the main restaurant too! If your wanting non alcoholic, they can help you out there too. They carry coke products and have specialty drinks such as the watermelon or strawberry lemonade. (I get them every time)
.Plus most of the non alcoholic drinks are free refills.
Did you save room for desert? I sure hope so, because they have some of the most decedent deserts out there! On mothers day I had a coupon for a free one and got the chocolate lava cake. My husband and I both tried, but wound up leaving half on the plate. IT WAS HUGE!
There are of course many other choices. If your one of those people that never have room for desert then stop by sometime and order one for lunch! (Don't worry, I won't tell on you.) If your planning a trip there soon make sure you go online and sign up at their website for promotions. They send me an e-mail about once every one or two weeks for a free desert, appetizer or kids meal! If you have a smart phone you can just show them the e-mail from your phone and get the freebie. This only works with the purchase of an adult entrée though, so keep that in mind. Just stop by Chilis.com and get signed up for free! They also have a mobile app, but I haven't tried it out yet. Happy Eating!
(Please note that all prices, and menu items are subject to change at any time. These are my opinions and those of my family. All photos were taken directly from the Chilis.com and I do not own them.)
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
My blog is up and running again!
My apologies for not posting in so long! Hit a rough patch and just didn't go out much. I will be posting many new restaurants in the upcoming weeks. Enjoy!
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