Will be in Branson for a long weekend in late June...

Question

Any must visit restaurants for lunch/dinner? We like almost everything except sushi. I would like at least one nice place for dinner one of the nights (steak/seafood). Thanks for your recommendations!

Answer

Branson offers a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes, from casual lunches to more upscale dinners. Since you’re visiting in late June and looking for a mix of experiences, here are some recommendations:

For lunch and casual meals:

Mel’s Hard Luck Diner: A fun 50s-style diner with burgers, sandwiches, and shakes. Great for a light and entertaining lunch experience.
Danna’s Bar-B-Que & Burger Shop: Known for hearty portions of barbecue and burgers. A local favorite for casual meals.
College of the Ozarks’ Dobyns Dining Room: Offers a unique, upscale cafeteria-style experience with locally sourced ingredients. Perfect for a nice midday meal with a view of the campus.
Farmhouse Restaurant: Homestyle American cuisine with excellent breakfast and lunch options. Great for trying regional specialties.

For dinner, especially a nicer experience with steak or seafood:

Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks: Offers an elegant farm-to-table dining experience. Known for quality steaks, seafood, and seasonal dishes. Reservations recommended for dinner.
Level 2 Steakhouse: Upscale steakhouse with a contemporary atmosphere. Highly rated for quality cuts and seafood options.
Stone Castle Hotel & Conference Center’s Castle Steakhouse: Great for a fine dining experience in a unique castle-themed setting. Features steaks, seafood, and a nice wine selection.
Pasghetti’s Italian Restaurant: Excellent for a mix of seafood and classic Italian dishes in a lively atmosphere. Can be a fun dinner option if you prefer something different from steak.

Other tips:

Late June is busy in Branson, so making reservations for dinner, especially at the more upscale spots, is recommended.
Many restaurants are clustered near the Branson Landing area, making it convenient if you want to explore shops and entertainment before or after your meal.
If you enjoy Southern-style comfort food, consider trying local diners or barbecue joints—they often provide both excellent food and a fun, casual atmosphere.

Overall, you’ll have a nice mix of casual and upscale options, with plenty of choices for both lunch and dinner during your long weekend in Branson.