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 on Friday or Saturday -- and trust me, you'll want to make that 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 sauteed 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 had a seasoned culinary career: starting early, cooking as a teenager; then graduating 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 each customer's opinion to heart, it's no surprise that the experience improves with every visit. "We've been here for seven 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 people 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 complementary rubs and sauces to a wide variety of fresh seafood offerings, several delicious sandwich creations and certified Angus burgers and steaks; Haven 55 offers non-traditional American fare that is 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 8-ounce sirloin prepared the way Alan does it."
The Tuesday night special at Haven 55 is Fried Catfish, while Wednesday night is Prime Rib night (you must have reservations in by noon on Tuesday), and Friday is Chef's Choice: Fresh Catch.
Haven 55 is open for lunch and dinner, and either one is a great chance to try their fantastic fried green bean 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 fine dining in its natural state.
Haven 55
408 Havenhurst Drive
Pineville, Mo.
(417) 223-2055
Haven55.com
For the months of January and February the restaurant is only open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Regular hours for lunch and dinner. The Prime Rib is served on Thursday evenings.
Restaurant Hours:
Tuesday-Saturday: Lunch 11am-2pm, Dinner 5pm-9pm
Closed Sundays and Mondays
Tavern Hours:
Friday and Saturday
5pm to 1:30am
NAN Dining Guide Spotlight on 01/19/2020