Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Haven 55: regional rustic fare in an inspired setting
In the southwest corner of Missouri, nestled among the trees on a bend in Little Sugar Creek, there’s a dining treasure: Haven 55. Ask any of their satisfied repeat customers what makes this place special and they’re bound to have the same answer: amazing food, spectacular views and relaxing atmosphere. Resting above the banks of Little Sugar Creek, their deck is the place to unwind 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.
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 family management team that takes each customer’s opinion to heart, it’s no surprise that the experience improves with every visit. “We’ve been here for eight 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 and savor the sights, sounds and company surrounding you. That includes gorgeous views of nature from the tables in the dining room.
And the food is its own kind of gorgeous. There are creative chicken and pork dishes with complementary rubs and sauces, a wide variety of fresh seafood offerings, unique and 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.”
Get your reservations in by noon on Tuesday to partake in Haven 55’s Wednesday Prime Rib night—a mid-week tradition worth planning ahead for. 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. Seating is limited right now, so be sure to call ahead for reservations.