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Shootout Weekend Eats: 11 Waterfront Restaurants To Hit By Boat

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Dog Days Aerial
LakeExpo

The Lake of the Ozarks Shootout means a full day on the water for many boaters. Seasoned attendees pack snacks and coolers, but at some point, someone is bound to ask: “where are we gonna eat?”

Keep in mind, a No-Wake (Idle) speed zone will be enforced around the race course, extending from the normal Glaize No-Wake Area to the 4 Mile Marker of the Grand Glaize Arm, around Party Cove. The No-Wake Zone will not extend into the Main Channel this year, making it a little quicker to venture out for a bite.

So here are 11 waterfront restaurants across the Lake to consider dining at this weekend.

Dog Days Bar & Grill

Shootout Headquarters at the 19 Mile Marker

As the hub for all things Shootout, the restaurant will likely be busy. But boy is the food worth it... especially if you haven't tried new stuff on the menu! This is the closest option for those leaving the flotilla. 

Downstream

18 MM - Bagnell Dam

If you're turning right after the Grand Glaize Bridge, here are five waterfront restaurants to try. 

1. Backwater Jack's at the 17.5 MM

Whether you go for the food or to continue the party, Backwater Jack's is one of the best places to be. And if you haven't tried the sushi yet... what are you doing?

2. 1932 Reserve at the 17.5 MM

Go here for an extraordinary and elevated evening. Previously a hotel, the restaurant now offers a menu that never stays stagnant. Editor Nathan Bechtold recommends the caramelized duck confit.

3. Franky & Louie’s Beachfront Bar & Grill at the 10 MM

Franky & Louie's is colorful and beachy, with a Key West inspired menu. This is a great spot to hang out and fuel up—both your belly and the boat!

4. The Blue Cat Lounge at the 8 MM

Tucked inside Alhonna Resort, the Blue Cat has a nostalgic charm and lots of fun drinks. Bonus, the restaurant is open from breakfast to dinner. You can start and finish your day here.

5. Neon Taco at the 0 MM

Feast on Mexican-inspired dishes, from signature bowls to street tacos and frozen cocktails. If you're not ready to get back on the boat, you can easily enjoy walking and shopping on the Bagnell Dam Strip.

Upstream

20 MM - 26 MM

If you're turning left after the Grand Glaize Bridge, here a five waterfront restaurants to try.

***You can find more dining spots further away on the Niangua Arm and Main Channel.

6. Shorty Pants at the 21 MM

Shorty Pants is the King of Cajun and Creole food. This is the place to go for seafood dishes bursting with flavor. Of course, you need to order som beignets too.

7. Redhead Lakeside Grill at the 21 MM

With steaks, hamburgers, brick oven pizza, and more, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Redhead's! This signature series is from 2024... but it gives you an idea of what to expect.

8. Paradise Restaurant & Bar at the 24 MM

This restaurant has one of the best panoramic views of the Lake, and the experience only gets better with their food and drinks. There's some new menu items if you haven't been here yet!

9. LandShark Bar & Grill at the 26 MM

Located in Margaritaville Lake Resort, there's lots to do beyond a bite to eat. LandShark is open seasonally, so this is a great time to hit up the restaurant, and if you stay late enough, you can get happy hour specials. 

10. Papa Chubby’s Food & Booze at the 26 MM

While this signature series is from 2024, the family-friendly atmosphere, sand bar, and delicious grub are still the same! Visit for a variety of food, from hand-helds to pizzas, with weekly specials. 

Grand Glaize Arm

If you go down this arm of the Lake, you won't find any restaurants. But it is a great place to cove out (if you haven't had enough), show off your water sport skills, or enjoy the beauty of the state park. 

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