By: Patterson Fallis
Spring is a time like no other. The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, and everyone gets out just a little bit more. After this crazy winter, I know you’re ready to come out of hibernation and get your paws on some good, local grub. With that being said, I am prepared to give you my top ten restaurants here in COMO. A few caveats, this list has no particular order so don’t be offended if your favorite spot is near the bottom of the page. This isn’t based purely on food, but the atmosphere and name recognition.
1. Shakespeare’s Pizza
When you think of Columbia staples, Shakespeare’s should be the first thing to pop in your mind. The classic pizza joint is located on the corner of 9th and Elm and has a variety of delicious toppings for everyone. The slices are huge, and the overall price is pretty reasonable for the product that you receive. Easily a top ten spot here in town.
2. Addison’s
I would say this is a top two or three place in Columbia strictly on a food-based scale. Addison’s Wonton Nachos changed my life. Those wonton chips are cooked to perfection and generously covered in pulled pork, pepper jack cheese, tomatoes, banana peppers, and barbecue sauce. A great place to make your parents take you when they’re in town.
3. Sycamore
A little on the pricey side, Sycamore has a great vibe and an ever-changing menu. I went there back in October over Homecoming weekend (again with my parents) and had a delicious filet on a bed of mashed potatoes. If you’re looking for a place to have a nice dinner, Sycamore is the place to be.
4. The Heidelberg
A great atmosphere, a great selection of appetizers, and Columbia’s greatest brunch, the Heidelberg has it all. On weeknights, BOGO apps are a must-have and the rooftop is a great venue to host gatherings or grad parties. Another CoMo classic.
5. Flat Branch Pub & Brewing
Located near downtown, Flat Branch has everything the classic pub should have. Their World Famous Chokes ‘n Cheese is served in a bread bowl and offers a different take on shareable dips. Though usually busy, service has been great every time I have been there and the wide variety of options on the menu means there is a dish for everyone in the family.
6. Booches
Widely thought of as the best burger in town, Booches offers an old-fashioned take on the hamburger. The vibe of a pool hall mixed with the delicious, buttery burgers makes this downtown dive a place to check out the next time you’re in the mood for a good burger.
7. Broadway Diner
When you see a classic American diner portrayed on your television set, it probably looks like the Broadway Diner. This local spot serves up delicious food at a price that can’t be beat. Although their hours recently changed, Broadway Diner remains a late night favorite among students here at Mizzou.
8. CJ’s in Tiger Country
Plain and simple, the best wings in town. Served on a styrofoam plate and with a roll of paper towels, the wings at CJ’s are superior to any others that I have had in my time at Mizzou. If you go here, you have to order wings bone-in because, as the menu states, “There is no such thing as a chicken wing with no bones, we think these are jayhawk wings.”
9. Room 38
Another one of the more expensive options in town, Room 38 offers an assortment of entrees ranging from flatbreads to seafood. A great spot to bring a date, or in the case of some students, your parents when they head to Columbia for the weekend.
10. Campus Bar and Grill
Formerly known as Big 12, Campus Bar and Grill offers everything a college student could ask for. Forty cent Wing Wednesdays and $1 cheeseburgers and fries on Sundays attract people week in and week out. A fun atmosphere to watch Mizzou Athletics, Campus Bar and Grill is the place to be downtown.
Columbia has a variety of places to enjoy your next meal, and it’s impossible for a list to cover them all. Hopefully, you’ll be able to try one of these fan favorites during your next visit to beautiful Columbia, Missouri.
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