These Unassuming Missouri Steakhouses Deliver Serious Steakhouse Flavor
Missouri has a bunch of steak spots that most folks don’t really talk about, but once you find them, you’ll keep going back. These places aren’t fancy, and that’s part of what makes them great.
You walk in, smell the grill, and know you’re about to eat something good. The people are friendly, the portions are big, and it just feels comfortable.
Locals have known about these steakhouses forever, and they’re happy to keep them a little under the radar. If you’re ever in Missouri and want a solid steak without the fuss, these spots are where you should go.
1. Jess & Jim’s Steakhouse, Kansas City
Walking into this place feels like stepping back in time. The walls are covered with old photos, and the booths have that worn-in comfort that only comes from decades of satisfied customers.
Locals have been coming here since 1938, and the family recipes haven’t changed much. Their steaks are hand-cut daily and cooked over an open flame.
The playboy cut is what most regulars order, and once you try it, you’ll understand why. Service is straightforward and friendly, just like you’d expect from a neighborhood spot that’s been around this long.
2. Citizen Kane’s Steak House, Kirkwood
This suburban spot has been serving up quality steaks since 1993. The building itself doesn’t look like much from the outside, but step inside and you’ll find a warm atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
They take their meat seriously here. Every steak is aged for at least 28 days, which gives the beef that rich, deep flavor you can’t get anywhere else. The prime rib is massive and always perfectly seasoned.
Portions are generous, and the sides are made from scratch daily. It’s the kind of place where you leave full and happy every single time.
3. Wilder’s Steakhouse, Joplin
Tucked away in Joplin, this family-run restaurant has built a loyal following over the years. People drive from neighboring towns just to eat here on weekends. The menu is simple, which tells you they focus on doing a few things really well.
Their ribeyes are thick, juicy, and cooked exactly how you ask for them. The staff knows most customers by name, and that personal touch makes all the difference.
Prices are reasonable, especially considering the quality you’re getting. If you’re passing through Joplin, this is absolutely worth the stop.
4. Hoof & Horn Steak House, St. Joseph
St. Joseph locals have kept this place busy for decades. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, which is exactly what you want when you’re craving a good steak. They don’t try to be something they’re not, and that honesty shows in every dish.
The sirloin here is tender and flavorful, cooked on a grill that’s been seasoned by thousands of steaks before yours. Their baked potatoes are huge and loaded with butter.
Service is quick without feeling rushed. You can tell the kitchen takes pride in putting out consistent quality night after night.
5. Tucker’s Place (Soulard), St. Louis
Right in the heart of Soulard sits this neighborhood favorite. The building has character, and so does the crowd that fills it most nights. It’s the kind of spot where regulars have their favorite tables and the bartender remembers what you drink.
Steaks here are cooked over high heat to lock in all those natural juices. The New York strip is a standout, with a perfect char on the outside and pink in the middle.
They also make stunning sides that complement the meat without stealing the show. Prices won’t break the bank either.
6. Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub, Springfield
Springfield residents have been filling this place for years, and for good reason. The pub atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it perfect for both date nights and casual dinners with friends. Nothing about this place is stuffy or overdone.
Their filet mignon practically melts in your mouth. The seasoning is simple but effective, letting the quality of the beef shine through. Portions are satisfying without being overwhelming.
The staff is attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. If you’re in Springfield and want a solid steak, this is where you go.
7. CC’s City Broiler, Columbia
Columbia’s college town vibe extends to this steakhouse, where the atmosphere is lively but never chaotic. They’ve mastered the balance between casual dining and quality food.
The open kitchen lets you watch your steak being prepared, which is always a good sign. Their bone-in ribeye is massive and perfectly marbled. The grill marks are real, not just for show, and the crust they achieve is outstanding.
Vegetables are fresh and cooked properly, not mushy or overcooked. Service is efficient and friendly, exactly what you need after a long day.
8. Pear Tree Kitchen & Bar, Macon
Don’t let the small town location fool you. This kitchen serves steaks that rival anything you’d find in a big city. The chef clearly knows what they’re doing, and the attention to detail shows in every plate that leaves the kitchen.
Their flat iron steak is surprisingly tender and full of flavor. The meat is sourced locally when possible, which makes a noticeable difference in taste. Sides are made from scratch, and you can tell.
The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, like eating at a friend’s house who happens to be an excellent cook.
9. The Block Restaurant & Butcher, Webster Groves
Having a butcher shop attached to your restaurant is a smart move. The Block takes full advantage, serving cuts you won’t find anywhere else. The staff knows their meat inside and out, and they’re happy to explain what makes each cut special.
Their dry-aged steaks are the main attraction, with complex flavors that develop during the aging process. The butcher can cut your steak to whatever thickness you prefer.
Cooking technique is spot-on every time. The space is modern but comfortable, and the service is professional without being formal or stiff.
10. Hereford House, Independence
Independence has its share of history, and this steakhouse has become part of it. The restaurant has been serving quality beef for decades, building a reputation one steak at a time. Regulars come back because they know what to expect, and they’re never disappointed.
The Kansas City strip is their signature cut, thick and juicy with that perfect char. They age their beef in-house, which gives it that distinctive flavor.
The loaded baked potato is almost a meal by itself. Prices are fair, and the portions are generous enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
11. Kreis’ Steakhouse & Bar, Frontenac
Frontenac might seem fancy, but this steakhouse keeps things real. The building has an elegant exterior, but inside you’ll find a comfortable atmosphere where everyone feels welcome.
They’ve been in business since 1948, which tells you something about their consistency. Their porterhouse gives you the best of both worlds, with tenderloin on one side and strip on the other.
The meat is always high quality and cooked to perfection. Service is attentive and knowledgeable. The drink list is solid, but you can also just order a simple beverage and enjoy your meal.
12. Sam’s Steakhouse, St. Louis
St. Louis has plenty of steakhouses, but Sam’s has outlasted most of them. They opened in 1953 and haven’t changed much since then. The decor is dated, but nobody comes here for the wallpaper. They come for steaks that taste exactly like they should.
Their T-bone is a thing of beauty, perfectly seasoned and grilled over high heat. The meat speaks for itself without needing fancy sauces or complicated preparations.
Sides are classic steakhouse fare, done right. Service is no-nonsense and efficient, getting your food to the table while it’s still sizzling hot.
13. Twisted Tree Steakhouse, Sunset Hills
Sunset Hills got lucky when this steakhouse opened. The name might sound trendy, but the food is solidly traditional. They’ve combined modern touches with classic steakhouse techniques, creating something that feels both fresh and familiar at the same time.
Their cowboy ribeye is impressive, with the bone adding extra flavor during cooking. The kitchen uses high-quality ingredients and proper cooking methods. Nothing is rushed or shortcuts taken.
The atmosphere is comfortable and refined without being pretentious. Staff members are friendly and actually seem to enjoy their jobs, which makes the whole experience better.