Cave Restaurant and Resort; Richland, Missouri
About 100 feet above the Gasconade River in Richland, Missouri, the Cave Restaurant caters to avid foodies and spelunkers alike. Carved into a limestone bluff located on an old camping resort, this cavernous wonder was first envisioned as a restaurant by former owner Dave Hughes in 1989. Hughes, his wife and a few workers hammered and blasted over 2,000 tons of rock to create a space that seats 225 people. While chowing down on traditional American grub like steak, chicken and fish, patrons can enjoy a beautiful view of the river through the panoramic window Hughes cut out of the stone. Adding to the business's unique ambience are taxidermied animals and small man-made water falls and fountains in the dining area. The restaurant's new owner, Gary Dyer, seems pretty impressed with the place. Not convinced? You might cave in after you sample the tasty seafood platter.