Missourians know a whole lot about good food. After all, we live in a state that’s positively brimming with unique eateries — pizza joints, burger stands, classic Italian restaurants, wineries, and traditional steakhouses. And, of course, we’re famous for some of the most crave-worthy cuisine in the country — toasted ravioli, finger-lickin’ barbecue, and the world-famous gooey butter cake… we’re in a food coma just thinking about it. Our point is: the food scene in the Show-Me State is amazing, and you’ll also find some of the most unique restaurants in the country right here in Missouri, too! We’ve shared some of our favorites before, but here are seven *more* unique restaurants sure to give you an unforgettable dining experience. Bon appetite! 

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There sure are some wholly unique restaurants in Missouri. Have we missed one of your favorites? Give them a shout out by nominating them to be considered for an upcoming Only In Missouri article!

Missouri really is a paradise for foodies. For a full primer on the best our state has to offer, you’ll want to read our Ultimate Guide To The Best Restaurants In Missouri, which includes some of the best pizzas, tacos, ice cream in the state, and so much more! In it, we share some of our favorite eateries across the state, all of which belong on your Missouri bucket list! Have you visited any of these spots before? Let us know about your experiences in the comments.

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unique restaurants in Missouri

What are some of the best restaurants in Missouri?

One of the best restaurants in Missouri is:

  • Pasghetti's in Brandon

We love *all* the different eateries here, but Italian food has a special place in our hearts. You know: authentic Italian food is just so good for the soul -- and the stomach! Pasghetti’s in Branson, a destination Italian restaurant, is one of those restaurants you really have to experience to appreciate. Make your way through the World’s Largest Meatball, which leads into the restaurant that boasts seven themed dining rooms, including an Italian village. The menu features delicious appetizers and classic Italian dishes. Can you pass up, for example, the traditional spaghetti with a giant meatball? Or do you prefer eggplant Parmesan or lasagna? You’ll find so many delicious dishes on the menu that you’ll probably want to come back again and again to try them all.

What foods is Missouri known for?

Foods that Missouri is known for include:

  • St. Louis pizza
  • Kansas City Barbecue
  • Butter Cake
  • Toasted Ravioli
  • Hot Salami Sandwich
  • Roast Beef Sandwich
  • Meatball Sandwich

Missouri's contributions to the culinary scene are numerous: St. Louis pizza, Kansas City barbecue, gooey butter cake, toasted ravioli, and Italian foods of all varieties. Our Italian game is strong in the Show-Me State -- and if you want to really savor those Old World flavors, check out one of our numerous delis! Because you'll find some of the best Italian sandwiches here in Missouri. One of our favorite spots is Gioia’s Deli in St. Louis. A city staple since it opened in 1918, the popular corner deli is perhaps best known for its one-of-a-kind, scrumptious hot salami sandwiches. One of the biggest selling points of the hot salami sandwich is the salami stays delightfully warm from the time it’s cut until it’s added to your sandwich. Don’t forget to check out the other popular sandwiches, too, including the roast beef and the meatball sandwiches. They're all amazing!

Where can I find the best pizza in Missouri?

The best pizza in Missouri is at:

  • Reeds Spring Pizza Company

If you're craving pizza, you've come to the right state! Missouri’s known for its pizza and, in particular, its famous St. Louis-style pizza, but what pizza joint makes the very best? That’s probably up for debate no matter whom you talk to, but one pizza joint certainly stands out as one of the best. Reeds Spring Pizza Company offers a delicious selection of pizza, all made with its scrumptious homemade pizza dough. You can, of course, order the traditional cheese or pepperoni pizza. However, if you like an extra zing to your pie, try such favorites as the Greek-style Athens pizza. It comes topped with mozzarella and feta cheese, spinach, and olives. We're salivating just thinking about it.

What's the most surprising food I'll find in Missouri?

One of the most surprising foods in Missouri is:

  • Mexican cuisine

You may be surprised to learn that Missouri is home to some killer Mexican cuisine. (We know, we just finished singing the Italian praises of the state, but Missouri is full of surprises!) One of our favorite Mexican restaurants -- and arguably the best in the state -- is Tres Toritos. Tucked in the tiny town of Saint Clair, Tres Toritos packs a whole lot of punch into its tiny, colorful interior. The authentic Mexican restaurant is so popular, in fact, that you’ll likely face a wait for a seat. However, that wait is well worth it for the flavorful, authentic meal that awaits. Mexican shrimp soup or Mexican chicken soup is the perfect way to start your meal, which you can then follow with a classic dish like burritos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. The menu boasts two dozen meal combinations, so you have plenty of choices. Vegetarian dishes and kid's favorites are also on the menu at this must-visit spot.

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