Founded in 1860, Sedalia has a turbulent past that it actively preserves through festivals, fairs and unique events.
Any visit to this beautiful city is truly worthwhile, especially if you're exploring the dining scene.
Sedalia, the seat of Pettis County, serves as home to many restaurants inspired by international cuisine.
It may be a small town, but you will be surprised by the wide variety of restaurants that await you here.
Whether you're craving traditional American, Southern, Mexican, or Asian fare, there are numerous downtown and neighborhood options within easy reach.
Bring out the foodie in you by checking out the best restaurants in Sedalia listed below.
1. Kehdes Barbeque
1915 S-Limit-Allee
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 826-2267
Kehde's, a family-run restaurant, serves smoky barbecue and other specialty dishes near the fairgrounds. It traces its history back to the family's Dog N' Suds, originally established in 1955.
Why this restaurant is a must
With a long history, Kehde's already knows how to please the taste buds of most guests who come to Sedalia.
It is among the most popular places to try diner classics and smoked foods.
Being a family friendly restaurant makes this place even more attractive.
Inside, it also offers plenty of space for birthdays, anniversaries, or other intimate celebrations.
what to eat
Start with Mozzarella Sticks, Cheese Fries and Fajita Nacho Supreme for delicious dining.
Among the BBQ sandwiches, the Carolina Pork Beef is a must for meat lovers.
It would also be great to try the beef platter served with Texas toast and beans to fill your stomach.
Have a rib platter if you prefer a slightly heavier fare.
2. The ivory grill
317 S Ohio Ave
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 829-0060
The Ivory Grille - the Hotel Bothwell's premier restaurant - has become famous for its traditional American cuisine.
It is located in the city center near the historic Lamy's Building.
Why this restaurant is a must
Enter this fine dining restaurant to indulge in sophistication and savor delicious dishes.
Unlike the others, the Ivory Grille offers its food at a reasonable price, even though it is an upscale eatery.
Also, this restaurant often creates special offers so you can eat something new while you're in town.
It also has nice brunch offerings that make it one of the best restaurants in Sedalia.
what to eat
Start your meal with wildfire shrimp and a light fare.
Make room for the fan-favorite chicken pot pie, which you can pair with a glass of Talley Chardonnay wine.
As an alternative, you can't go wrong with the signature ribeye classic, especially when you order Substance "Elemental" Cabernet to go with it.
3. Small big horn
150 S limit average
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 826-8194
Little Big Horn has been another local BBQ restaurant in Sedalia for over a decade.
It is on the north side of town off Highway 65.
Why this restaurant is a must
If you're a foodie who loves to grill, then Little Big Horn has to be among the first restaurants you'll visit upon arriving in Sedalia.
It specializes in house-made barbecue, prime ribs and steaks.
Each menu item is served fresh to ensure you get the best food in Sedalia.
Additionally, Little Big Horn promotes a family-friendly atmosphere, which you'll greatly appreciate.
what to eat
Indulge in the oven-roasted prime rib, served with a flavorful sauce on the side.
You can opt for a ground beef with grilled mushrooms and onions if you want a lighter meal.
Youngsters will love the grilled cheese, chicken nuggets, and small barbecue sandwiches on offer here.
Pair your meal with iced tea to complete your dining experience.
Recommended hotels nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Sedalia, ein IHG-Hotel
See also:
Restaurants in Poplar BluffPlaces to eat in RollaThe best restaurants in Girardeau
4. Bandanas Bar-BQ
2909 W Broadway Blvd
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 851-0610
Bandana's Bar-B-Q, a regional chain established in 1996, emphasizes Southern cuisine on the menu.
It currently has 29 locations in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa and Kentucky.
Why this restaurant is a must
Grill lovers will have the best time at this restaurant as it offers award winning food that diners love.
Bandana follows a slow cooking process for a smoky and tender meat finish.
It is also one of the top rated restaurants in Sedalia due to its relaxed atmosphere and charming cowboy theme.
Surely the smell of the smoke would also lure you to this amazing place.
what to eat
Try the sumptuous ribs with side dishes of potato salad, sweet corn and green beans.
It's also good to try the smoked pork and burnt ends for a satisfying lunch.
If you prefer handhelds, the southern-style pork and pork and brisket sandwiches are ideal for you. Also have a fudge brownie for dessert.
Recommended hotels nearby: Hampton Inn Sedalia
5. Backstein-Frontgrill
3007 W Broadway Blvd
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 827-2339
Opened in 2006, Brick Front Grill specializes in serving Greek and Mediterranean specialties in Sedalia.
It's one of the restaurants closest to the Missouri State Fairgrounds.
Why this restaurant is a must
Sedalia gets a lot of praise from the public for its eclectic dining scene, which offers guests plenty of options.
At the Brick Front Grill you can discover delicious recipes that you may have yet to try.
Its appetizers, sandwiches and salads would provide you with an unforgettable global culinary adventure.
In addition, this restaurant also exudes a homely atmosphere, which is what most guests prefer in any restaurant.
what to eat
Consider the lamb kebab, with flavorful meat marinated and grilled for you.
It's served with Greek salad, grilled pita, basmati rice, and hummus for a complete meal.
Another fan favorite is the gyroscopes stuffed with tomatoes, lettuce, onions, feta cheese and tzatziki sauce.
It is best to round it all off with Rugelach, so that you can also taste a pleasant pastry.
Recommended hotels nearby: Comfort Inn Sedalia Station
6. El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant
3000 S limit Avg
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 827-5553
Established in 1995, El Tapatio helped bring Latin American cuisine and culture much closer to Sedalia.
It's a family run restaurant downtown near Katy Park.
Why this restaurant is a must
Immerse yourself in authentic Mexican cuisine with a special dinner with your group at El Tapatio.
It is consistently ranked as one of the best Sedalia restaurants for its well-rounded gastronomic approach.
Beyond the food, the restaurant owners also strive to introduce the history and culture of Mexico through various events.
It's a lively place you don't want to miss.
what to eat
Consider trying the chimichanga with steak and cheese - a deep fried burrito filled with steak and beans, cheese sauce and pico de gallo.
It's one of the chef's favorites, along with taquitos rancheros, which include beef and chicken.
Have some Mexican soup to warm your tummy.
Sip a glass of Margarita Flights for a refreshing drink that will leave you wanting more.
Recommended hotels nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Sedalia, ein IHG-Hotel
7. Coltons Steak House and Grill
4101 W Broadway Blvd
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 829-3737
Colton's was first incorporated in August 1996 in Conway, AR before expanding its presence in eight other states.
In 2015 it officially opened its doors to the Sedalia community.
Why this restaurant is a must
Are you looking for good restaurants in Sedalia with a Wild West theme?
Head to Colton's for a casual dining experience while feasting on some of the most sumptuous steaks around.
The indoor style and overall theme lets you feel the true southern atmosphere.
The culinary experience is best enjoyed with friends and family.
what to eat
Choose the coveted sirloin steak, flavored with unique spices that you can only taste at this restaurant.
Colton's "Loaded" Chicken, another fan favorite, wouldn't disappoint either.
You might also want to try the Montana Burger with bacon, cheddar, cheese, onions and barbecue sauce.
Just make sure you balance it all out with a bread pudding for dessert.
Recommended hotels nearby: Hampton Inn Sedalia
See also:
The best restaurants in SikestonRestaurants in Springfield, Missouri
Restaurants in Waynesville
8. Applebees Grill + Bar
3320 W Broadway Blvd
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 827-9910
Applebee's Grill + Bar in Sedalia is a neighborhood eatery that is part of a full-service chain.
The first location was established in November 1980 in Decatur, GA.
Why this restaurant is a must
You no longer have to wonder where to eat in Sedalia once you have checked out this restaurant on the highway.
It is one of the coolest restaurants that promotes a friendly atmosphere that you can feel comfortable in.
Bring your friends to the bar area where you can swap stories or watch sports games while sipping your favorite drink.
You're also likely to meet new friends as you drop by.
what to eat
Treat your taste buds to the classic combo of boneless wings, chicken quesadilla, and mozzarella sticks.
Follow it with the double glazed baby back ribs afterwards.
Seafood lovers can indulge in shrimp and Parmesan fillet, which also tastes best with broccoli.
Treat yourself to a clubhouse grill sandwich to go so you can eat on the go.
Recommended hotels nearby: Comfort Inn Sedalia Station
9. Asian Buffet
3406 W Broadway Blvd
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 826-8886
Established in 2012, the Asian Buffet helped popularize China's best-kept dishes this side of Missouri.
It is just 8 minutes' drive from the Clover Dell Park tourist attraction.
Why this restaurant is a must
Guests showered this place with rave reviews for its delicious dishes made with fresh ingredients.
It also adds a modern take on well-known Chinese foods to offer guests something new.
Ultimately, with its buffet setup, this place is perfect for those with big appetites as well as those looking to immerse themselves in global cuisine.
what to eat
Try the Kung Pao Chicken with Vegetable Fried Rice for an authentic Chinese meal at Sedalia.
It would be best to add shrimp lo mein — a type of stir-fried noodles — for a filling fare.
Among the specialties, General Tsao Chicken, Butter Prawns and Clams with Black Bean Sauce are great foods that you would like to try.
Order a bonus fortune cookie too!
Recommended hotels nearby: Best Western State Fair Inn
10. Morelos Taqueria and Bakery
125 E 16. St
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 851-2700
Taqueria Morelos near Centennial Park is one of the best Latin American restaurants in Sedalia.
It has been welcoming guests for about a decade.
Why this restaurant is a must
Looking for a budget restaurant?
Taqueria Morelos is one of the best restaurants that Sedalia has to offer in this regard with its very reasonable food prices.
Don't worry because this restaurant guarantees high quality food at an affordable price too.
Everyone can enjoy a Mexican feast from the delicious offerings at this lovely restaurant.
what to eat
Huevos con Jamón, which uses ham and eggs, would be a perfect dish to start the day.
Fill your belly with tacos, burritos, and quesadillas to make the most of it.
Also, order some enchiladas — a traditional Mexican dish — for a fascinating dining experience.
Recommended hotels nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Sedalia, ein IHG-Hotel
Related: Activities in Sedalia, MO
11. Claras North 65 Café
22938 US-65
Sedalia, MO 65301
(660) 829-3322
Clara's North 65 Café offers hearty homemade classics inspired by heritage flair.
It is strategically located just a six minute drive from Bothwell Lodge State Historic Site.
Why this restaurant is a must
Start your day with a delicious breakfast offered at Clara's North 65 Cafe.
It is widely recognized as one of the best restaurants in Sedalia due to its focus on providing clean and fresh food.
In addition, Clara's places a special emphasis on Colombian cuisine to attract more people who love global food.
Be sure to try it!
what to eat
Have a plate full of grilled pork tenderloin with potatoes, eggs, and toast when you want a big morning meal.
Add a homemade pancake and oatmeal for an appetizing start to the day.
Set aside some space for the bacon, ham, egg, and cheese sandwich to give you energy for the day.
Youngsters, on the other hand, want the silver dollar pancakes with eggs and hash browns.
Before leaving, an apple pie with ice cream would also be perfect.
Recommended hotels nearby: Best Western State Fair Inn
Map of restaurants in Sedalia
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The 11 Best Sedalia Restaurants for 2022
- Kehdes Barbeque
- The Ivory Grill
- Little big horn
- Bandanas Bar-B-Q
- Brick front grill
- Mexican restaurant El Tapatio
- Colton’s Steak House and Grill
- Applebees Grill + Bar
- Asian buffet
- Taqueria and Bakery Morelos
- Claras North 65 Café
