From the Smith Family to Our Customers
Welcome to the home of the giant pork tenderloin sandwich and a local favorite. Serving the community for more than 40 years, Smith’s Restaurant continues to offer home-cooked, made-to-order, fresh foods daily. What once started as a small family-owned restaurant has grown into a favorite stop at multiple locations for many travelers on Highway 13.
The iconic turtle and strawberry logo is an eye catcher and a question most people have…what does this logo represent? For the locals it is a given, but for those traveling, the connection is puzzling. CA and Peggy Smith opened the original Smith’s Restaurant in Collins, MO, while at the same time managing a strawberry patch near their home. People traveled for miles to pick their own strawberries and then stop by the restaurant before traveling home. A special artist created the logo for the Smith family and ever since the famous turtle surrounded by strawberries has been the center of discussion. If you haven’t tried the fresh homemade strawberry pie, be sure and watch for it during season…you won’t regret it!
In May of 2004, Mark and Angie Smith proudly opened Smith’s Restaurant on the outskirts of Bolivar. Mark thoroughly enjoyed his childhood in the service industry and was excited to open this second location in honor of his mom and dad. The Bolivar restaurant welcomes groups of any size with large private party rooms, seating up to 300 people, catering and open every day except for Christmas.
Mark and Angie also chose to use the restaurant to display their love of antiques and to share their story of God’s unconditional love. Antique lovers enjoy the restaurant’s casual Americana décor that complements the family-friendly food. With this comfortable country home setting, you will also find a memorial wall that shares their journey paved with joy, incredible heartache, courage and faith. Mark and Angie were blessed with five children during their marriage, but their daughter, Cali, and son, Canyun, were only with them a short time. They chose to use a portrait wall designed in the entry of the restaurant as a memorial and a celebration to their children.
Just recently, Mark Smith went home to be with his Lord and Savior. Just as she did for their children, Angie has used a wall in the main dining area to memorialize her husband and share the love he poured into his family, customers, employees and community. With the help of their dedicated staff, Angie and their children will continue Mark’s legacy and love for this family restaurant as they serve good, homemade country food while at the same time providing a testimony of faith and love.