25 Essential Independence Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Independence.
First Watch
Missouri
Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.
Perkins American Food Co.
Missouri
Kid-friendly chain known for baked goods, breakfasts & other standards in dinerlike digs.
Main Event Independence
Missouri
an everyday essential favorite for readers tracking Independence's most persuasive restaurant rooms, anchored by a Beam Score of 84.3.
Big Boy Burgers
Independence, Missouri
Chain of family-friendly diners serving breakfast, burgers & other American comfort food.
Papa Murphy's | Take 'N' Bake Pizza
Independence, Missouri
Chain outlet offering build-your-own takeaway pizzas, to be cooked at home.
Hi-Boy Drive-in
Independence, Missouri
Old-school American burger counter dishing up quarter-pound patties, fried sides, shakes & sundaes.
Dixon's Famous Chili Parlor
Independence, Missouri
Storied spot serving tomato-free chili by the bowl or on top of burgers, tacos or spaghetti.
HiBoy Drive-In
Independence, Missouri
Old-school American burger counter dishing up quarter-pound patties, fried sides, shakes & sundaes.
The Honey Baked Ham Company
Independence, Missouri
Family-owned chain selling ready-to-serve smoked hams, plus turkeys, roasts, side dishes & desserts.
Carmen’s cantina 2
Independence, Missouri
Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Drive-through, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection.
Marco's Pizza
Independence, Missouri
Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.
Ophelia's Restaurant & Inn
Independence, Missouri
Elegant rooms above an upscale restaurant offering a choice of complimentary breakfasts.
Five Four Restaurant & Drafthouse- Independence
Independence, Missouri
Chain offering a broad American menu & drinks in a relaxed setting with kitschy, eclectic decor.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Independence, Missouri
Homey chain restaurant serving American comfort food, with an on-site general store.
La Fuente Mexican Restaurant
Independence, Missouri
Informal locale offering classic meals, cocktail pitchers & imported beers, plus a menu for kids.
Hereford House - Independence
Independence, Missouri
Casual steakhouse offering prime beef & sides, plus happy hour & Sunday specials.
Thai Spice Independence
Independence, Missouri
Unassuming strip-mall kitchen offering Thai curries, noodle dishes & weekday lunch specials.
Café Verona
Independence, Missouri
Italian classics & updated dishes in a homey yet elegant muraled setting with patio seating.
Fun House Pizza & Pub
Independence, Missouri
Pizzeria with an iconic circus-tent sign serving loaded pies, burgers, sandwiches & fried chicken.
La Fuente Mexican Restaurant
Independence, Missouri
Informal locale offering classic meals, cocktail pitchers & imported beers, plus a menu for kids.
A Little BBQ Joint
Independence, Missouri
Easygoing, family-owned mainstay for classic BBQ, with unique car-themed decor & an outdoor bar.
Old Chicago Pizza + Taproom
Independence, Missouri
Family-friendly chain restaurant featuring Italian entrees along with a wide beer selection.
Erin's Pub
Independence, Missouri
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, Wheelchair accessible seating.
Five Guys
Independence, Missouri
Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.
Captain D's
Independence, Missouri
Fast-food chain serving fried fish & shrimp combo meals along with gumbo & funnel cakes.