Missouri boasts some top-tier barbeque, and Big Daddy’s is a solid local choice. Founders Lloyd and Fontella Henry have years of experience smoking tender meats, at Big Daddy’s and at a downtown restaurant called Lloyd’s Barbecue before that. The menu covers a number of classic barbecue items, but try the brisket sandwich or baby back ribs, and don’t miss the zingy, ketchup-based house sauce. The family-owned business now has two locations, on Garth Avenue and Paris Road, along with a food truck that helps the restaurant cater events across town. Big Daddy’s has consistently grown over the years, mostly thanks to word of mouth, a good sign of the quality.

As a year-round event, Columbia’s market brings fresh produce, breakfasts, natural candles, and more to the MU Health Care Pavilion once a week (twice a week in the summer). Locals come for a taste of their favorites, like Gina’s Vegan A Go Go, a food truck serving tacos, BLTs, and biscuits and gravy, all without any animal products. Mr. Murphy’s is where to get your stuffed-potato fix, be sure to grab coffee from Fretboard, and you’ll find baked goods throughout the market.

One of many local breweries in Columbia, Logboat supplies beer to bars and restaurants across town, but the brand’s own location on Fay Street is the place to bring some food and relax with a crew of friends and family. The most popular drink is the Snapper IPA, but the menu is filled with unique brews in funky cans, seasonal offerings, and bottles of experimental mixed-culture fermentations.

Brunch is the most popular meal in any college town, and Cafe Berlin is on a mission to make it even better, utilizing as many local ingredients as possible and delivering dishes in a uniquely homey space. Using meat from Patchwork Family Farms, eggs from Stanton Brothers, and produce from Three Creeks and Stem to Table, the restaurant serves breakfast burritos, pancakes, tacos, a Compost Pile of biscuits and veggies, and so much more. It’s one of the most vegetarian- and vegan-friendly options around, too.

If you’re looking to visit Ernie’s for breakfast, you’d better go early; there’s a line out the door by midmorning. While the tight space makes it difficult to get a table on weekends, the experience is more than worth the wait. The inexpensive, classic American breakfast food serves college students well, while a fun, vintage interior makes it a favorite for young families and regulars. If the big menu feels daunting, try out the quintessential plate of hash, sausage, and eggs, or go for the hotcakes if you wake up with a sweet tooth.

Located downtown on Broadway, Teller’s is a cozy, warm spot with tons of local art on the walls and a diverse menu that features sandwiches, wraps, entrees, and pastas. Poultry dishes, like the sesame chicken and Jamaican jerked chicken breast, are highlights. Be sure to wash any order down with one of the restaurant’s famous martinis.

There’s no shortage of sushi spots in Columbia, but head for Geisha, where boat-shaped platters of specialty rolls and nigiri fly by tables spewing dry ice smoke. The moody, elegant interior makes for a transportive experience. The restaurant doesn’t skimp on portions either, providing some of the biggest rolls on the market.

Ever since it gained notoriety for a cicada ice cream flavor during a wave of insects in the summer of 2011, Sparky’s has established itself as a classic for Columbians. Walk in and find an eclectic mix of wall-to-wall decorations; the owner likes to buy paintings at art sales and off websites, so there’s no shortage of inexplicable art to admire as you enjoy your cone. The shop often rotates its unique flavors, but a few favorites do stick around. Look out for the Oreo Speedwagon.

Glenn’s has students and locals covered when it comes to Creole comfort food. Located on the ground floor of the Tiger Hotel, a historic hotel in downtown Columbia, the restaurant features a classy, well-decorated interior, an ideal environment for some oysters and Champagne (the latter is complimentary with every meal). The menu covers a range of New Orleans-inspired dishes, including seafood gumbo, bronzed pork, and jambalaya. Finish with some mint julep ice cream.

With cash-only service and simple burgers served on wax paper, this throwback establishment topped Sports Illustrated’s 2019 list of best college town eateries. Founded in 1884, Booches is Columbia’s oldest pool hall. The vibe is reminiscent of a classic Cheers-style bar, with dark brown wood, low lighting, and framed photos littering the walls. A crowd of old-time regulars gathers at the pool tables in the back, while a steady stream of locals grab food at the bar up front. You won’t find much more here than a traditional, crispy burger, but it’s a classic that’s worth a quick trip to the ATM.

This bagel shop is a newer addition to town, but it has quickly become a favorite of students and locals. A short walk from campus, it’s a good option for a bagel or breakfast sandwich, but get there before the supply runs out. Sandwich options are derived from Jewish appetizing classics and newer spins, served along with baked treats like babka buns and tahini chocolate chip cookies. The team often offers free nourishment to those who can’t afford a meal through a donation system, and they have immersed themselves in the town’s community.

The Berg has been around since 1963, even surviving a complete rebuild when a fire destroyed the building in 2003. This spot is the classic hangout for college students, whether they’re recovering from a late night, satisfying a craving for toasted ravioli (one of Columbia’s favorite dishes), or sharing a round of drinks. Summer nights on the roof are memorable, with the occasional concert livening things up.

For traditional Cantonese food, Columbians will tell you to go to Peking Restaurant. The family behind the operation has been cooking for decades, but the modern version of the restaurant opened in 2005, with an enormous menu packed with all sorts of choices. Come with a group to share plates of cashew chicken, empress chicken, lo mein, and egg rolls. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner with a break in between, and the menu of lunch specials offers consistent crowd favorites.