Known as the quiet side of the Lake of the Ozarks, Sunrise Beach is a private and calm community that’s well-loved for its rural energy, large homes, and proximity to the water that appeals to seasonal residents and vacationers. When looking for the best Sunrise Beach restaurants, try out these BBQ, southern comfort, and Mexican spots in the area.
Sunrise Cantina
Sunset Hills Drive, Sunrise Beach, MO
For some of the best Mexican cuisine in Sunrise Beach, Sunrise Cantina is the place to beat. Guests visiting here can enjoy panoramic views of Fan Hollow Cove while eating lunch and dinner. Sit surrounded by Latin-themed artwork, bringing vibrancy into the low-lit interior, or snag a window seat for a view of the lush green cove. Front porch stool seating is also available to enjoy the great nature views. Residents count this as one of the best Sunrise Beach restaurants for the local homemade pie selections, featuring a range of berry, chocolate, and cream cheese creations.
For lunch, mix it up with the feature of the day, or order menu regulars like the mini tostada piled high with beans, meat, and garnishes. Start dinner with appetizers like fried avocado bites, a crunchy and gooey creation brought to life with cilantro ranch. Entrees like the carne asada have the perfect bite with its tequila and lime marinade, served with all the sides.
The Tavern at Trails End
258 Trails End Drive, Sunrise Beach, MO
For a venue representing the village’s history, The Tavern at Trails End is one of the oldest constructions in the area. Those visiting for dinner Thursday through Monday or for weekend brunch can sit in the warm-toned, ranch-like interior or right next to a floor-to-ceiling window looking out onto the lawn and tree line outdoors. Outdoor dining is also available on the covered deck, the modern design staying true to the character of the building.
For brunch, a mix of breakfast classics like the classic eggs benedict and the biscuits and gravy are listed alongside heartier options like the wagyu brisket grilled cheese. Keep it sweet with the French toast and blueberry-infused syrup, or go for a fresh salad crunch. For dinner, start off with a plate of Prince Edward mussels, served in a roasted garlic tomato broth. House favorites like the bone-in hog chop showcase true southern hospitality, the 12-ounce cut served with an apple glaze and mashed potato.
Lake House 13
98 Oasis Circle, Sunrise Beach, MO
Lake House 13 lives up to its name, providing boat slips for guests journeying to this spot via water. Located right on the water, this restaurant and bar feature an expansive covered back patio looking out on the shoreline and the trees lining the river. Sit outside under string lights or enjoy live music that regularly graces the small stage from the bar or a table inside.
Serving classic American cuisine, start off a meal with the bread bowl filled with queso blanco and served with pretzel bites for dipping. The family can share a specialty pizza like The Pig, a savory pulled pork creation with a jalapeno bite. Or try out flavor-packed sandwiches like the Lake House Steak house, an eight-ounce sirloin paired with a house-made steak sauce. No place does comfort food in Sunrise Beach better than this spot.
Frankie & Louie’s
1028 Deer Valley Road, Sunrise Beach
Another dock and dine venue in Sunrise Beach is Franky & Louie’s, a beachfront bar at the Lake of the Ozarks. This lively restaurant offers outdoor, lakeside dining well-lit into the night. Visit in the summer to enjoy live music in the restaurant or out on the beach, or rent a boat for an adventure out on the water. Guests can also dine indoors, the causal setting also strung with lights. Or claim a spot at the bar to enjoy great cocktails, including frozen varieties perfect for waterside lounging.
Appetizers like the filet mignon tips have just the right balance of sweet and savory with a bourbon teriyaki glaze. Order a fresh and inventive slice from the pizza kitchen, with options like the BBQ chicken sprinkled with bacon. Entrees like the New Orleans Jambalaya dance on the taste buds, seasoned with Cajun spices. Burger, salad, and children’s options keep everybody at the table satisfied.
The Bear Bottom Restaurant
123 Bear Bottom Drive, Sunrise Beach, MO
Located in Bear Bottom Resort is the Bear Bottom Restaurant, an electric spot for tasty meals, waterside views, and entertainment. Facing the west, guests can enjoy taking in the beautiful sunsets from both covered and open air seating. Once the sun goes down, live music acts from regional and local bands hit the stage, ranging across classic rock, blues, country, and more. For delicious dining in a casual, fun environment, this is one of the best places to eat in Sunrise Beach.
To get started, enjoy scrumptious options like crab rangoons, the beerhall pretzel and cheese dip, or the crab-stuffed avocado app featuring their classic crab salad. Also available are lighter eats, such as their BLT wedge salad or classic chicken caesar. For dinner, entrees like the Ozark catfish platter, the pounded pork tenderloin, and the slammin’ shrimp tacos are sure to satisfy. And they even have an impressive selection of pizzas!
Ready to Dine in Sunrise Beach?
When looking for restaurants in Sunrise Beach, try out one of the options above. Shoreside dining at spots like Lake House 13 caters to the nautically inclined while offering stellar southern and seafood classics. Catch some live music at the Bear Bottom Restaurant, or stay true to the village’s roots at The Tavern at Trails End. When you’re ready to live closer to these great restaurants, contact experienced local agent Ebbie Bogema and the Spouses Selling Houses Team to guide you through your options. Find more options and restaurants in this Neighborhoods in Lake of the Ozarks.