Carthage, a city in Jasper County, Missouri, is America’s Maple Leaf City because of the vast number of maple trees in the area that gives the city its distinct color in fall.
This city prides itself on its many attractions that range from historical to inspirational.
Filled with architectural marvels, historical sites, museums, and landmarks, it has a lot to offer for tourists wanting to explore its rich history.
Carthage also offers a variety of unique cuisine from home-cooked meals to fine dining.
In town and looking for the best restaurants in Carthage? We’re here to help you decide which ones to try.
1. Lucky J Restaurant & Arena
11664 Fir Rd
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 358-2370
Lucky J Steakhouse & Arena first opened its doors in 2001 and has since grown to become one of the most popular restaurants to try as well as the best horse arena in the four states.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
This is one of the coolest, most fascinating, and enjoyable places to eat in Southeast Missouri.
The vibe of this establishment is unmistakably western. It even has a fine western store connected to it. You can come in and get a pair of boots, a decorated cowhide, and a tasty meal. While you wait for a table, the store is a great way to pass the time.
There aren’t many nice equine arenas with decent food, so finding it with one of the good restaurants in Carthage is like finding a unicorn.
What to Eat
Lucky J’s is famous for its “Cake of the Day”. Check out what they have in store for you when you drop by.
Lucky J’s renowned House Steak, along with complementary sides and freshly baked rolls, is also a must-try.
2. Mother Road Coffee
325 S Main St
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 359-8182
Located at the Historic Square and established in 2013, Mother Road Coffee is a specialty coffee house famous for serving espresso-based drinks, both hot and cold, as well as baked goods all created in-house.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
This chic restaurant is a hidden gem that offers the best breakfast in town. If you need a strong coffee to wake you up in the morning, they have it.
If you need a quiet place to study or work, with a decent internet connection and good food, they have it.
Whatever you may need from sunrise to sunset, they have it all. This restaurant tops the list of best rated restaurants in Carthage because of that, and it’s one of the best restaurants Carthage has to offer.
What to Eat
For a unique yet delicious drink, try the Vanilla Honey Lavender Latte made with almond milk. The soothing flavors combined together make an interesting treat. Pair it with a nice Panini for breakfast, or a Chicken Bacon Avocado Wrap for lunch.
3. Habaneros Mexican Grill
100 Lincoln St
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 237-9335
Habaneros Mexican Grill has served authentic Mexican cuisine for over 15 years. They specialize in making fresh homemade guacamole and the best margaritas in town.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
In one of the top Carthage restaurants, savor great and authentic Mexican cuisine.
They serve delicious food at fair prices, and the establishment is clean and spacious, making it ideal for large groups.
Dine-in or order take-outs to enjoy delicious cuisine at home.
What to Eat
As soon as you’re seated, they will serve water, chips, and salsa right away. Take advantage of this as their chips and salsa are very good, and you can even order spicier versions.
Another recommended item is their enchiladas. Whether it’s made with cheese or shrimp, it’s up to you. Both are deliciously authentic.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn & Suites Carthage
4. The Original Whisler’s (Also Known As Whisler’s Drive-Up)
300 N Garrison Ave
Carthage, MO 648367
(417) 358-4951
The Original Whisler’s first opened in 1953 and has been serving customers the best burgers in town for all these years. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
For every Carthage local, this tiny restaurant has been like family. Many people grew up eating Whisler’s burgers, making memories, and some of them stop by just to get a sense of nostalgia.
Feel the history of this place as you walk through the doors and see the interiors untouched by modern time. Also, taste what this long-time dining establishment has that kept it standing until today.
What to Eat
If it’s your first time, sample their original burger with the option of single, double, and triple patties.
If you have the appetite for more, try the popular Pig ‘n Bull (burger with ham), Sow ‘n Cow (burger with bacon), or Farm (burger with both ham and bacon). Pair them with soda and chips for the perfect Whisler’s meal.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Carthage
5. Big Ben’s BBQ Station
2817 The Loop
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 237-0752
Big Ben’s BBQ Station, which opened in 2011, is a barbeque dine-in and drive-thru located across a Phillips 66 gas station.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Want to experience a real barbeque place? Big Ben offers some of the best food in Carthage for grilled food. Come by and grab a quick lunch with its prompt drive-thru service or stay indoors and take your time savoring the authentic barbeque taste of Carthage.
What to Eat
Some of the outstanding recommendations are brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. For convenience, order the Big Ben’s Sampler for all of those and more. Don’t forget to order BBQ spaghetti whenever you’re in a barbeque place. It’s the real taste test.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn & Suites Carthage
6. Iggy’s Diner
2400 S Grand Ave
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 237-0212
Established in 1999, Iggy’s Diner is a 50s-themed diner serving breakfast-dinner along the historic Route 66.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Iggy’s Diner is the epitome of 50s dining. It’s a great experience from the outside to the inside, with classic 50s rock stars and celebrities posted on the walls. Musical displays of records and albums are also present.
Besides the incredible decor, the service is also excellent with attentive lady servers. These qualities make Iggy’s one of the great Carthage eats.
What to Eat
The breakfast items are a definite must-try when you’re at Iggy’s.
For a full yet tasty breakfast, try the Hungry Cowboys, complete with three eggs, two bacon strips, one sausage patty, two sausage links, and pit ham served with hash browns, toast, or biscuits, and gravy. What could top that?
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Carthage
Related: Best Things to Do in Carthage, MO
7. Sirloin Stockade
1027 W Central
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 358-1765
Sirloin Stockade in Carthage is one of several locations of a restaurant chain that offers all-you-can-eat buffets and a dessert bakery.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
All-you-can-eat buffets and fine dining are a standard go-to for events these days. We just want to experience something special that doesn’t come by every day. Got a birthday or anniversary coming up? Consider Sirloin Stockade as your venue.
With its offering of traditional American cuisine, you’d find something you’ll like from hot and cold samplers to seafood entrees.
What to Eat
The steak meats are excellent, salads are great, the fried chicken is divine, and you can have a go at the dessert bar to pick out your favorites.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Guest House Motel
8. El Charro
2937 Grand Ave
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 358-4016
El Charro is a local restaurant serving authentic Mexican fare. They also have a full bar with a great selection of Mexican beer.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Whether you’re just passing through or exploring where to eat in Carthage, El Charro is an ideal choice for both. The place offers authentic Mexican cuisine, and the food is delicious and the service is prompt.
Visit El Charro for great food in sizable portions at reasonable prices.
What to Eat
For a truly Mexican meal, try the unlimited salsa and chips, guacamole salad, and the El Charro Burrito filled with ground beef or shredded chicken, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and cheese. This is served with rice and beans for a filling lunch or dinner.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites
9. Boomers BBQ and Catering
1123 W Central Ave
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 358-8112
Open from brunch to dinner, Boomers BBQ is a family-owned business that serves some of the best BBQ in the country.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Enjoy roasted and grilled items in this rustic barbeque restaurant with cozy wooden interiors. In addition to its delectable meals and simplistic decors, this restaurant is frequented by customers because of its homey vibe perfect for casual dinners or family gatherings.
What to Eat
For foodies and barbeque lovers, try the BBQ ribs with tender meat at a large portion, and yummy sauce coating it throughout. If you like your meat spicy, their hot sauce will challenge your spice threshold while still satisfying your cravings.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Budget Inn
10. The Woodshed
311 S Main St
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 358-2707
The Woodshed is a cozy downtown gastropub offering traditional American fare, a variety of drinks, and live entertainment.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Looking for restaurants near you for a fun night out? Besides its casual and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant and bar offer live music on select nights.
Its dependable dinner services extend until noon, as it’s also a great midday spot with yummy lunch items on its menu.
What to Eat
For a delectable and filling lunch, order their maple bacon jam cheeseburger, with its patty made from ground brisket. The fried chicken is also noteworthy, with a “less is more” approach using a simple recipe yet delivering big flavors.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites
11. Taste of Italy
4321 S Chapel Rd
Carthage, MO 64836
(417) 358-2000
Opened in 2019, Taste of Italy strives to offer authentic Italian cuisine to the people of Carthage.
Why This Restaurant Is a Must Eat
Considered as one of the best restaurants in Carthage, Taste of Italy is not just an Italian restaurant. It takes people to a whole different environment just by the taste of its offerings, as well as the hospitality and accommodation this restaurant offers to diners.
The Taste of Italy is spacious, but not crowded. It’s the perfect venue for larger groups, corporate events, business meetings, or family reunions.
What to Eat
We highly recommend the Chicken Tuscany which is chicken breast cooked in a pink sherry wine sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and artichoke over linguini pasta.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Residence Inn Joplin
Map of Restaurants in Carthage
List of image sources
11 Best Carthage Restaurants for 2022
- Lucky J Restaurant & Arena
- Mother Road Coffee
- Habaneros Mexican Grill
- The Original Whisler’s (Also Known As Whisler’s Drive-Up)
- Big Ben’s BBQ Station
- Iggy’s Diner
- Sirloin Stockade
- El Charro
- Boomers BBQ and Catering
- The Woodshed
- Taste of Italy
