Home of the Throwed Roll

I’m on an extended weekend getaway right now, mostly tagging along while my better half bowls. We decided to escape town for a bit, and our first stop was Lambert’s Cafe, located between Springfield and Branson, MO.

The Experience:

First things first, the wait is worth it. If you’re going with a group, definitely call ahead—it’ll save you some time. People have waited up to two hours just to eat here. Once inside, the atmosphere is like a mix between Cracker Barrel and TGI Fridays. As you’re led to your table, it’s clear this isn’t going to be your usual dining experience. Waitstaff roams the floor, offering up black-eyed peas, fried potatoes, fried okra, and tomato mac.

Now, let’s talk about the famous gimmick that put this place on the map. You’ll hear someone yell “HOT ROLLS!” from across the room, and the next thing you know, a dinner roll is flying through the air. Yes, they throw rolls across the room, and yes, you’ll need to keep an eye out for incoming bread. Once you catch one, they’ll offer you sorghum molasses—a sticky, sweet, gooey treat that’s just as it should be. This is why they’re called the Home of the Throwed Roll.

The Main Course:

After downing a massive 52 oz drink, it’s time for the main event. The menu covers everything from fish to pork and all the good stuff in between. I went with the 16 oz chicken fried steak, served with mashed potatoes, baby carrots, and cucumber & onions on the side. Andie had the salmon steak with mashed potatoes and carrots.

The Presentation:

If you order a traditional dinner, it’ll likely be served in a skillet. My chicken fried steak took up the entire bottom of a 12-inch skillet. The side portions are average, but with all the extra food being passed around, you won’t leave hungry. By the way, my chicken fried steak was the rooster size (16 oz), but they also offer a hen size that’s 10-12 oz. A friend ordered the smaller one and couldn’t finish it. I didn’t finish mine either, but I gave it a solid effort—I left with about a third of it on the plate.

The Quality:

If you’re into down-home, country-style meals, this is your place. The food has that comforting, grandma’s cooking vibe. I was really impressed with both the food and the service. And if you’ve got any room left, the small slice of cheesecake at the end is the perfect finish.

Summary:

Great food, a fun atmosphere, and reasonable prices earn this place a solid four out of five gold forks from me. If you’re ever in the Springfield or Branson, MO area, be sure to check it out. Or, you can visit one of their other two locations listed on their website at throwedrolls.com.

I’m still stuffed six hours later, so I think it’s time for another nap. Got a long day ahead tomorrow.

Image Credits: BaedonWebZine