Take a drive down the historic Bagnell Dam Strip, and you will likely find yourself drawn to the two-story, industrial-style restaurant Tucker’s Shuckers. Stop in and you’ll find brilliant, interesting food and artisanal drinks and cocktails to punctuate any day at Lake of the Ozarks.
The casual and welcoming atmosphere makes Tucker’s a great place for family and friends to gather over a meal. Although the restaurant is known — and named — for oysters, the menu boasts a variety of delicious options to choose from.
Manager Hannah Taylor loves working at Tucker’s Shuckers, and her favorite aspect of the job is how excellent the food is. “I couldn’t work somewhere if I didn’t like the food. I’m a bad liar,” she said. Taylor added owner George Tucker is the kind of boss folks want to work for, and that makes Tucker’s Shuckers a popular place for customers and employees alike.
Whether you’re searching for some ocean fare or draught beer, here are a few items you should consider on your next visit:
(Ready to go? Visit Tucker’s Shuckers on the Bagnell Dam Strip at 1339 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Lake Ozark, MO 65049. View their menu online.)
To Eat
Tuck N’ Roll
Filled with crab, cream cheese, green onion, carrot, and cucumber, then wrapped in nori and sticky rice. This sushi appetizer is battered, deep fried, then topped with wasabi aioli and teriyaki. The little rolls burst with flavor, while the carrot adds some crunch. Don’t worry, the aioli isn’t hot! Ginger and soy sauce are plated with the sushi for extra spice and saltiness.
Lobster Bisque
This creamy soup is brimming with flavor and chunks of lobster. The texture is smooth and buttery, and this bisque is a perfect starter choice if you’re looking for something savory with an undertone of sweetness.
Bacon Jam Burger
A half-pound of Tucker’s signature beef chargrilled, then topped with house-made pimento cheese and bacon jam. The thick patty is seasoned well, paired with sweet crumbly bacon, but the creamy and tangy cheese is what makes this burger. A side of fries finishes this elevated classic, or you can choose chips or coleslaw.
To Drink
Blueberry Lemonade
With muddled blueberries and a lemon garnish, this colorful drink is sugary to the taste. The cocktail is made of Western Son’s Blueberry Vodka, sweet and sour, citrus soda and lemonade - but you can also get the mocktail version! For candy lovers, this will remind you of a Jolly Rancher in liquid form.
Espresso Martini
End the day the same way it began: coffee. This strong espresso cocktail is garnished with espresso beans and makes for a great dessert drink. Created with Three Olives Vanilla Vodka, Kamora Coffee Liqueur, Brady’s Irish Créme, and house-made cold brew. Delicious!
Nectar of the Gods
A frozen gift for your tastebuds. Mango puree, rum, peach schnapps, and a drizzle of strawberry result in the perfect fruity drink, which hails from Paradise Tropical Restaurant and Bar. Add a floater to the smooth cocktail for some extra booze!
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Tucker’s Shuckers provides a scrumptious menu and 28 beers on tap. You can also get mocktails, and check out the gluten-free and vegan options. If you visit the second floor, you’ll see a framed picture of Jason Bateman, star of the Netflix series Ozark, and his signature on the wall. Whatever you decide, you’re sure to have a good time!
Visit Tucker’s Shuckers on the Bagnell Dam Strip at 1339 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Lake Ozark, MO 65049.
