A leisurely drive along Route 66 in Missouri is one of the best ways to spend a few hours, an entire day, or even a weekend. After all, the famous road travels from St. Louis to Joplin and boasts countless attractions along the way. Big Chief Roadhouse, a historic restaurant in Missouri, sits along Route 66, and it gives diners a glimpse into those roadside restaurants of days gone by. So pack your bags, because this is one restaurant that’s worth the drive.

Called one of the few remaining full-service restaurants on Route 66, Big Chief Roadhouse in Wildwood has been a fixture, in some form or another, on the famous road since 1929.
Facebook/Big Chief Roadhouse
When you step into this restaurant, you're also stepping into nearly 100 years of rich and fascinating history.
It began as a hotel and restaurant that drew both famous (Babe Ruth) and infamous guests (Al Capone) in its heyday. Through the years, the Route 66 destination served as a hotel and restaurant, a resale store, and a landscaping business before it returned to its roots as the Big Chief Roadhouse in the 1990s.
Google/Big Chief Roadhouse
It's pretty cool to imagine yourself sitting in the same seats as one of these notorious guests.
Today, the restaurant, which holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, still draws weary travelers. This time, though, they’re in search of a hearty meal at this possibly the best historic Missouri restaurant.
Facebook/Big Chief Roadhouse
And the Big Chief Roadhouse menu delivers.
Make sure you come hungry because Big Chief Roadhouse dishes up homemade (made from scratch) meals in generous portions. You might even feel like you’re back at grandma’s house as you dig into such classics as chicken pot pie.
Facebook/Big Chief Roadhouse
The scratch cooking gives this restaurant a down-home feel that's as comforting as the cuisine itself.

Related Stories

Everything Is Made Fresh Daily At Fratelli’s Ristorante In Missouri, And You Can Taste The Difference

Everything Is Made Fresh Daily At Fratelli’s Ristorante In Missouri, And You Can Taste The Difference

 If Pasta Is Your Love Language, You'll Be In Heaven At Shell’s Pasta Emporium In Missouri

If Pasta Is Your Love Language, You'll Be In Heaven At Shell’s Pasta Emporium In Missouri

 The Legendary Family-Owned Restaurant In Missouri You Have To Try

The Legendary Family-Owned Restaurant In Missouri You Have To Try
How about starting off your meal, however, with a Missouri classic like toasted ravioli? Other popular appetizers include Ozark poutine and fried banana peppers.
Facebook/Big Chief Roadhouse
If you’re the kind of person who has trouble with decisions, you’re in for a doozy when you take a peek at the menu that features everything from a variety of pizzas and burgers to sandwiches.
Facebook/Big Chief Roadhouse
The good thing about all these options is that everyone in your party will find something to love, even the pickiest of eaters.
On at least one visit – because you’ll surely be back – try one of the entrees that will take your taste buds on a trip down Memory Lane. Country fried steak, toasted lasagna, and smoked pork chop are among your choices.
Facebook/Big Chief Roadhouse
The kiddos have their own menu, too, with such favorites as chicken tenders, grilled cheese, and mac & cheese. This is culinary happiness for the whole family.
Check out a menu on the Historic Big Chief Roadhouse Restaurant website. Or, stop by its Facebook page for specials and menu items.
Facebook/Big Chief Roadhouse

Have you been to Big Chief Roadhouse? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments below! We love to hear your firsthand accounts of these unique experiences.

While you’re in Wildwood, bring a pair of hiking shoes, so can check out this beautiful hiking trail in Missouri.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Restaurants In Missouri

CC | February 15, 2024

What are other historic restaurants in Missouri?

Missouri has a rich history in all areas, including its culinary scene. Let’s just say, Big Chief isn’t the only spot that’s seen some interesting characters over the years. While you’re in the state, check out these other historic restaurants in Missouri.

  • Huston Tavern, Arrow Rock
  • Old Brick House, St. Genevieve
  • Al’s Restaurant AKA Al’s Steakhouse, St. Louis
  • Crown Candy Kitchen, St. Louis
  • Arthur Bryant’s BBQ, Kansas City
  • Town Topic Hamburgers, Kansas City
  • Thee Abbey Kitchen – Arcadia Academy, Ironton
  • Gordon’s Stoplight Drive-In, Crystal City
  • Goody Goody Diner, St. Louis
  • Lambert’s Café Sikeston
  • The Majestic, Kansas City
  • Spencer’s Grill, Kirkwood
  • The White Rose Café, Union
  • The Fred Restaurant & Lounge, Boonville
  • Big Boy Burgers, Independence

 

What are the best restaurants in Missouri?

History is fantastic, but sometimes all you need is a really good meal. And Missouri has those in spades! Find out for yourself at the best restaurants in Missouri.

  • Fred & Red’s – Joplin
  • Arnie’s Barn – Ridgedale
  • Murphy’s Stuffed Potatoes – Various
  • White Rose Café – Union
  • MacCheesy – Joplin
  • Hick Bar-B-Que – Cuba
  • Creekside Grill – Echo Bluff State Park
  • 1820, The Family Restaurant – Keytesville
  • Tin Mill Restaurant – Hermann
  • Red’s Giant Hamburg – Springfield
  • Don’s Family Style Buffet – Huntsville
  • Vig’s KC – Odessa

Related Articles

Explore Missouri

Featured Addresses
Big Chief Roadhouse, 17352 Manchester Rd, Glencoe, MO 63038, USA