In the southwest corner of Missouri, nestled among the trees on a bend in Little Sugar Creek, there sits Haven 55, the casual fine-dining experience with a spectacular view. Ask any of their satisfied repeat customers what makes this place special and they're bound to have the same answer: the food and the atmosphere. Resting above a peaceful nature scene, their deck is the place to relax and slow it down. You'll want to come early and grab a drink from the Tavern while you wait for your reservation.
When asked what sets them apart from the competition, Pam Bone, front-of-house manager and mother of owner/head chef Alan Bone, says, "Everything that comes out of this kitchen is prepared to order. Sauces are sautéed while your chicken is cooking and everything is timed perfectly. It might take a little longer, but all his dishes are prepared fresh."
Chef Bone has a seasoned culinary career. He started cooking since he was a teenager, and graduated with top honors from Le Cordon Bleu chef school in Orlando. He worked and studied under several local chefs before ultimately opening his own restaurant in his hometown of Pineville.
With their close-knit management team of family that takes customers' opinion to heart, it's no surprise that the experience improves with every visit. "We've been here for six and a half years," says Pam, "and it's taken a lot of trial and error to get it right."
That trial and error has led to a different kind of dining experience than most are used to. A comfortable pace that's conducive to culinary magic allows you to slow down yourself and savor the sights and sounds and company surrounding you.
From creative chicken and pork dishes with unique and complimentary rubs and sauces to a wild variety of fresh seafood offerings, several delicious sandwich creations and certified Angus burgers and steaks. Haven 55 offers non-traditional American fare that is approximately ten miles above average. "The New York Strip with blue cheese sauce is our best seller, and we have a big following for Prime Rib night," says Pam, "But my personal favorite is the 8oz sirloin prepared the way Alan does it."
During the months of January and February Haven 55 will only be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and Prime Rib will be served on Thursdays, which means you'll need your reservations in by the end of the day on Wednesday. They will still be open for lunch and dinner, and either is a good chance to try their fascinating fried green beans appetizer served with a creamy horseradish dip.
The Tavern is open on Friday and Saturday nights and serves house crafted pizzas and other tavern fare. It stays open later than the restaurant to extend your night out, and they have regular live performances by local artists, as well as karaoke every Saturday night. Visit haven55.com and keep an eye on the Haven 55 Facebook page for changing specials, a more detailed schedule of upcoming events, or to view their menu.
A meal at this hidden gem is more than just lunch or dinner; it's a whole new dining experience.
Haven 55
408 Havenhurst Drive
Pineville, Mo.
(417) 223-2055
Haven55.com
Tuesday thru Saturday:
Lunch: 11am -- 2pm
Dinner: 5pm -- 9pm
Tavern Hours:
Friday and Saturday
5pm to 1:30am
NAN Dining Guide Spotlight on 03/31/2019