The waters of Table Rock Lake reflect the emerald sky all day and shimmer in the moonlight all night, providing a backdrop for one of Branson's finest dining experiences. Be prepared to spare no expense at this restaurant, where wood paneling and marble veneer mix to create an opulent environment. Chef Doug Knopp has been called a master by writers and reviewers, and for good reason. His sorghum-glazed salmon, caper-whipped potatoes, and beets glazed in lemon butter and honey have received national attention. Dinner entrees are pricey, ranging from $20-38, but this is a four-diamond hotel and restaurant. Knopp's desserts are also nationally acclaimed. The local favorite is the Southern Pecan tort ($9.50).

The Welk Resort of Branson is the setting for this German/American restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Lennon Brothers warm up here during breakfast before their show in the Welk Theater. The restaurant is built to resemble the World War II Canteens that fed hungry GIs in Europe. Memorabilia adorns the walls, most of which came from the collections of local heroes and veterans. Since the restaurant is part of the Welk Resort complex, what else would you expect to find on the menu but German food? The bratwurst and sauerkraut sandwich (USD6.95) is a taste of Bavarian heaven. If you are wondering what the guy next to you has that smells so wonderful, it is probably the smoked pork chops, which go for USD11.45.

Among all the shows in Branson, this has to be one of the best. A sushi chef prepares your dinner among flying knives, flipping spatulas and a little comedy added in for spice. The menu includes entrees such as Hibachi Scallops, Sukiyuki Steak, Hibachi Chicken & Shrimp and Hibachi Filet Mignon & Shrimp. Your meal is served with soup, salad, two-piece shrimp appetizer, steamed or fried rice, and vegetable. Domestic and imported wines are available, and beer is on the menu as well.

Since this center caters only to bus and tour groups, it has acquired the ability to feed and entertain large groups in style. You will be tempted to wear straw hats and bandannas and sing silly hillbilly songs as you are served succulent pit-barbecued pork, or to relive your childhood as you get a chance to meet Santa Claus during an unforgettable Christmas dinner. The staff offers a variety of group meals, the most popular of which is the pig roast. Pit- barbecued pork is served with barbecue sauce, coleslaw, scalloped potatoes, baked beans, rolls and fruit cobbler. You might also want to try the fish fry, which consists of deep-fried catfish filets, coleslaw, green beans, new potatoes, hush puppies and cobbler.

Docker's is built to resemble a stern-wheeled steamboat. Owners Don and Noela Kirkland pride themselves on providing a great dining experience that is tasty, yet quick, allowing you ample time to enjoy the sights and sounds of Branson. Breakfast consists of scrambled eggs, pancakes, French toast, waffles, biscuits and gravy, and an assortment of meats. The dinner buffet is the real extravaganza. The venue is open daily from 7 a.m.

In the heart of Branson, this 95-acre district includes a diverse array of entertainment, lodging, and eating options. The one and a half mile boardwalk along the Taneycomo Lake is a charming highlight and the hourly water show at the fountains (starting at noon) promises to be a visual spectacle. 

When it is time to pull out all the stops and get away from the buffets and the frantic pace of the Strip, this is the place to go. Dark cherry-wood paneling divides the large dining room into romantic and private dining settings. A patio overlooks Lake Taneycomo and, at night, the lights of Branson, which shimmer in the summer heat. The chef specializes in French cuisine, but he must carry a minor degree in Creole cooking. Many of his creations offer more than a hint of Cajun seasoning. The menu is one of those "if you have to ask, you can not afford it" affairs, but the prices are well worth it for the great food, setting and service you receive. The grilled rack of lamb ($28) comes with an apple-mint chutney and is wading in cassis juice.

Established in 1910, this cafe has endured the test of time, including the Great Depression and the two world wars. There is a reason for this, too. The cafe serves up hot, delicious food, consistently good coffee, and incredible desserts. The downtown building, with its rough-cut wood paneling and checkered tablecloths, is tended to by a cheerful, energetic staff. It is no wonder the place is usually teeming with hungry clients. The biscuits and gravy will certainly remind you of home, if you want to feel a little more homesick, try the pork tenderloin sandwiches.

This classic Italian restaurant is proof that looks can be deceiving. Although it is located in a mammoth roadhouse (it was once a feed store), the interior is anything but hillbilly. The dining room is a virtual art gallery and you can almost here the Mediterranean mandolins in the distance. Spaghetti and meatballs anchor the menu, but other non-Italian dishes are also available, some of which have been given a bit of old country flavor. Even the chicken noodle soup has hints of basil, oregano and garlic. The raviolis here are worth a try, especially if you get them smothered in Alfredo-wine sauce.

Take in the atmosphere of the Australian Outback while enjoying mouth-watering entrees and high-quality service. Serving dinner only, Outback Steakhouse offers an extensive menu featuring appetizers, chicken, ribs, steak, seafood, pasta, salads and desserts for moderate prices. Family-friendly, the casual restaurant has something for everyone at its numerous locations in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Outback Steakhouse also offers call-ahead seating and curbside take-away. Check website for locations and menu selections.