Grumbling tummies, rejoice! New and old favorites are ready to serve you

Branson Café to reopen soon

One of Branson's most popular eateries has been closed down for remodel, but is counting down the days until they reopen.

Branson Cafe, that closed down just after the first of the year, is gearing up for a February 2 reopening.

"We did a major floor remodel throughout the whole restaurant, updated the restroom, and did a deep clean," said Brandi Beebe, one of the Branson Cafe owners. "We closed January 1 to start this project."

Branson Cafe, located at 120 West Main Street in Historic Downtown Branson, is open seven days a week, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily.  

"We appreciate the community's patience while we do this much-needed update. We know you'll love it," said Brandi. "When we reopen, we have a few tricks up our sleeve for our early risers. Watch our Facebook for more details soon."

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Branson restaurant will have new owners

The new year brings a new chapter in the life of Branson Alderman Marshall Howden and his wife, Kendra. The couple will become the new owners of Branson's A&W restaurant. Although it may seem like a complete change of direction for Marshall and Kendra, it is actually a venue with which they are very familiar.

"The restaurant has been part of our family for many years, having been owned and operated by my father-in-law," Marshall explained. "My wife and I are excited to step into ownership later this year and continue that legacy. A&W is a phenomenal and nostalgic brand that fits the Branson aesthetic perfectly. All of our food is made with real ingredients, including 100 percent USDA beef and all-beef hot dogs. Our iconic root beer floats are still made with root beer prepared in house."

A&W, established in 1919 as a roadside root beer stand in California, was a pioneer in the fast food industry. Today, with franchises internationally, the restaurant—known for its namesake root beer, burgers, chicken and more— remains a popular option for those searching for a tasty and quick meal.

A&W is located at the Tanger Outlets, 300 Tanger Boulevard, in the far right corner of the complex, when entering from the main drive off of 76 Country Boulevard. Currently, the restaurant is operating on winter hours, which remain flexible. Beginning in March, the restaurant will be open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

"While we plan to keep much of what people love exactly the same, we are also looking ahead to expanding with merchandising and special events that connect with our advocacy for Branson’s music heritage," said Howden. "Our goal is to honor a family tradition, preserve a beloved brand, and continue serving Branson with the same sense of hospitality, nostalgia and community pride that people have come to expect."

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Branson West home to new restaurant

A new restaurant in Branson West features a unique menu to satisfy the tastes of all.

Yummm Sizzle and Scoop, opened in their current location in December of 2025, is veteran owned and operated.  Robert Smith is the restaurant's head baker and his wife, Norma, manages the facility's front of house operations.

"We are a full-service restaurant, with breakfast all day," explained Robert. "Our specialties include fresh made donuts, specialty coffee, burgers, hot wings, Nathan hot dogs, 16 flavors of ice cream and Boba Tea."

Yummm Sizzle and Scoop offers a wide variety of breakfast items and delicious lunch and dinner selections, all served daily, with a huge serving of Ozarks' hospitality. Items such as omelets, pancakes, waffles, pork tenderloin, BLT and chicken sandwiches are all favorites.

Of their backgrounds, Robert said, "I was an IT professional and my wife was a support manager at the Walmart home office."

The couple moved to the Branson West area in 2015 to manage a local hotel.  The decision to open the restaurant was more recent. 

"We wanted to work closely and interact with people," Robert explained.  

You can find more information on Yummm Sizzle and Scoop on Facebook, or on their website, www.yummm.menu. Located at 10770 East State Highway 76 in Branson West, Yummm Sizzle and Scoop is open seven days a week, currently from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m.

"When the pink lights are on, donuts are for sale," said Robert, of one of Yummm's most popular items. "We look forward to expanding our offerings in the bakery, based on the suggestions from our customers."