Lambert's Cafe: Home of the Throwed Rolls in Ozark, MO

Lambert's is one of the attractions that is a 'must see' when traveling through this part of the Ozarks.

Founded in 1942 in Sikeston, MO it became known as the "Home of the Throwed Rolls". Over the years, they expanded to Ozark, MO and Foley, AL. Located near Gulf Shores, Lambert's III was able to reopen just one week after Hurricane Katrina hit.

We visit the Lambert's in Ozark. One of the things we love is their ability to accommodate large groups. My husband graduated with his Master's degree at the large church across the street. By hurrying, we were able to be one of the first groups there, with about 20 in our party. Many other parties that day were larger than we were.

Everyone is offered the 'pass arounds'. In a style somewhat reminiscent of a ballpark hawker, some employees roam the dining area offering an appetizer. These include fried okra, macaroni and tomatoes, fried potatoes, blackeyed peas, sorghum and honey. For some you need to have a plate already, but others are served on a paper towel from the roll on your table - these also double as your napkins.

All of the entrée's are all-you-can-eat. And believe me, one serving is more than most people can eat [except when I'm pregnant, then I can eat more]. The XXL Center Cut ham is bigger than most normal dinner plates at other restaurants. The roast beef is a large serving of shredded pot roast - easily enough for two meals for many people. Splitting an entrée and then asking for a 'refill' is frowned upon, but you can refill your own entrée as many times as you'd like and can share multiple entrees as well. Many entrees are served with your choice of two vegetables, as well as the 'pass arounds'.

All of the drinks come in a 32oz mug, with refills - even on milk. You eat free on your birthday, but otherwise, expect to spend about $30 for two people. The birthday meal also includes a 'hubcap' - one of the biggest cinnamon rolls you'll ever see.

A few years ago, my best friend visited from out of state. I told her about the place where they throw your food at you and she enthusiastically agreed to go. We waited for about an hour - at any 'busy time', expect to wait, busses of tourists make this a regular stop - and began to enjoy our meal. Within a few minutes, a 'hawker' came out with fresh, hot rolls. I told her to raise her hand and he threw a strike right at her. She literally jumped. "I didn't think you were serious when you said they THREW the rolls at you!" I laughed and began to enjoy my own roll. These guys are good. They don't often miss, though occasionally someone will take a roll to the back of the head when the 'catcher' isn't quite up to par. It's all taken in good fun. State and military flags get brushed by the rolls from time to time and they cater each throw to the person - kids get much softer throws than athletic looking 20-somethings. It rarely takes more than a few minutes to empty a full cart of rolls.

Lambert's is one of those great down home, country cookin' places that you just have to visit. The staff wears red suspenders and often 'play up' the 'hillbilly' image. It's the one place we really try to take out of towners because it's an experience you just can't get anywhere else. Lambert's II is located at 1800 W. State Highway J, Ozark, MO, 65721. It is just east of Highway 65 at CC. They can be reached at 417-581-7655.