Travel Lens
A Route 66 steakhouse, a chili counter from 1923, and Greek, Hawaiian and Vietnamese kitchens in southwest Missouri.
A downtown steakhouse under a restored 1950s neon sign. Hand-cut steaks, chargrilled to order, include the ribeye and Wilder’s Mignons.
A small chili counter serving Joplin since 1923. Order the Spaghetti Red, spaghetti under house chili, and sit at the counter.
A Greek restaurant fronted by columns and statues on Range Line Road. For a main, order the lamb, like the coffee-rubbed chops.
A wood-fire pizza spot on old Route 66 with a thin, crisp crust. Try the Poppin Pie, or the hot honey pepperoni reviewers like.
Joplin’s dedicated seafood restaurant on old Route 66. Order the lump crab cakes with fire-roasted tomato ragout.
A Vietnamese restaurant built around long-simmered broth. Order a bowl of beef phở with rice noodles and build it your way.
Hawaiian and Japanese-influenced plates near downtown. Order tacos and Spam musubi, grilled Spam on rice wrapped in seaweed.
A tiny brick brunch spot with its menu on dry erase boards. It cooks with local farms, as in a plate of watermelon, prosciutto and goat cheese.
Swipe up for all 15 restaurants in our full guide, with what to order and how to book.