As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lake, Table Rock has limited shoreline development. In fact, that’s what makes the beautiful Ozark impoundment so desirable for many visitors. Table Rock maintains a rugged uncluttered beauty for recreational enjoyment. While there are but a few lakefront restaurants, they are impressive.
If you want rustic dining with heaty portions prepared by a master chef’s touch, head for Devil’s Pool Restaurant. The historic structure you’ll dine in is amazing, as is the food.
Start your meal with the Table Rock Ale Fondue prepared with charred onions and sundried tomatoes, and served with crusty French bread. It’s packed with complex flavor and a great way to start the evening. For the main event, the Hardwood Smoked Prime Rib is simply incredible. This choice prime is served with a horseradish cream, loaded baked potato, and roasted carrots with maple thyme butter. Ozark home cooking for your soul to be sure.
After dining at Devil's Pool Restaurant, make your way downstairs to the “cowboy cool” Buzzard Bar. Comfortable seating amid the usual collection of cool stuff – as only Big Cedar can do – gives you an up-close experience with Clay Self, the Singin’ Cowboy, playing and singing all your favorites at the lodge since 1989.
Dining options at Big Cedar also include the Worman House, the Osage Restaurant at Top of the Rock, and more.
Where can you find an eight-foot tall chicken, a guy sitting in a canoe while hanging upside down from the ceiling, and the best dang fried chicken you ever tasted? Flat Creek Restaurant, that’s where. And this is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg of unique things at Flat Creek Restaurant.
With all due respect to your momma, these folks have perfected fried chicken. The chicken is broasted perfectly providing a moist meat with a crunchy skin that’s incredible. The fried catfish is off the hook as well, and Sundays it’s all you can eat of either for $13.99.
Flat Creek Bar & Grill is family-friendly with a large seating area inside and huge enclosed decks offering lakeview seating as well. Located well up the James River arm of Table Rock Lake, most folks drive to dine. However, there is a courtesy dock for those travelling by water. Crazy cool place. This isn’t just a bar and grill, it’s an experience.
Flat Creek also operates a restaurant at Cape Fair Marina during summer months.
Lakeside Resort, General Store & Restaurant is located mid-lake (mile marker 6) in the cozy Coney Island area. This family-friendly restaurant, complete with courtesy dock for diners, serves the usual lake fare – pizza, sandwiches, burgers, etc. However, what sets this place apart is their fixation on treats, specifically decadent ice cream creations. There are two specialty ice cream sundaes that are not to be missed – the Table Rock Turtle and the Brownie Bombshell.
You’ll also enjoy fabulous concretes, shakes, premium hard ice cream, 25 flavors of Hawaiian Shaved Ice, keg root beer and more. All served with attention to detail and a flair for fun.
Seating is available inside or lakefront outside on the patio. Restaurant is seasonal so call ahead during the off season (December through March).
Parrots Pavilion Tiki Bar is located on Indian Point within the Rock Lane Resort complex. Come by land or by sea (okay, water) and partake in a Table Rock Lake tradition. This open air fun factory is home to good food, live music and the famous Cruzan Rum "Voodoo Bucket." Might want to leave the kids with grandma for this one as things can get a little wound up late night on the weekends, but after all, it’s the lake.
Sans the libations, the food served at Parrots Pavilion is very good. Charlie’s Steak, Ribs and Ale is located inside the main resort building (seating available) and you can order from their menu and have it delivered lakeside at the pavilion. Charlie’s Nachos – Texas-size tostada chips heaped with seasoned beef and toppings is served with Pico de Gallo and spicy cheese dip, is a crowd favorite. If you want to kick it up a notch, order the Texas Hot Wings – 1 pound of wings with choice of sauces: Zesty, Hot Buffalo, Carolina or Voodoo.
The Catfish Hole is located within the heart of Kimberling City in the Fisher Creek cove. For convenience, boaters are shuttled up the hill to the restaurant via golf cart. Ample free parking exists for those arriving by vehicle.
As the name implies, Catfish Hole at Table Rock Lake specializes in catfish and doesn’t disappoint. This family run business has dedicated over 20 years to bringing the finest catfish, hush puppies, and service you will find anywhere. Order your catfish with or without bones and prepare to be delighted.
Also popular at this unique restaurant, especially on a hot summer day, is the peel and eat boiled shrimp (served chilled). Other items include, ocean clams, frog legs, trout, tilapia, scallops, and chicken (grilled or fried). Most meals come with the Catfish Hole’s signature fixin’s which include hush puppies, coleslaw, pickles, onions, lemons, and green tomato relish. Burgers, appetizers and desserts are also available. Live music on most Thursday, Friday and Saturdays.
Chateau on the Lake, located at the north end of Table Rock Dam, offers fine dining with a lake view at the Chateau Grille. Courtesy dock is located at Chateau on the Lake Marina below the hotel.
Coyotes Dockside Café & Pub, located within the Port of Kimberling facility just east of the Kimberling City bridge offers a courtesy dock and an impressive menu of appetizers, burgers, sandwiches and a kid’s menu.
