Lambert's Cafe
Famous as the 'Home of Throwed Rolls,' this bustling Southern-style diner is known for servers who literally toss hot, fresh yeast rolls across the dining room to hungry guests. Beyond the airborne bread, it serves massive portions of classic comfort food and unlimited pass-around sides. It is a beloved, high-energy road trip tradition.
- Admission
- Free admission, menu prices vary
- Hours
- 10:30 AM - 9:00 PM daily
- Duration
- 1-2 hours
- Parking
- Ample free on-site parking, including spaces for RVs and buses
- Access
- Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms
Read more
Established in 1942 by Earl and Agnes Lambert, Lambert's Cafe in Sikeston, Missouri, has earned legendary status as the "Home of Throwed Rolls." What began as a modest post-depression eatery evolved into a massive roadside phenomenon famous for tossing fresh, hot yeast rolls directly to hungry diners across the dining room.
Beyond the airborne bread, visitors are treated to generous portions of classic Southern comfort food served in a bustling, nostalgic atmosphere filled with historic photos and eclectic memorabilia. Servers walk the floor continuously, offering "pass-arounds"—unlimited portions of side dishes like fried okra, black-eyed peas, and macaroni and tomatoes that are included with every meal.
Ratings
restaurantVisitor Tips
- ◆ Arrive early or during off-peak hours, as wait times can easily exceed an hour, especially on weekends and holidays.
- ◆ Come with a big appetite, as the entrees are massive and the complimentary pass-around sides are highly filling.
- ◆ Be prepared to catch your rolls with both hands, or hold up a clean napkin to help secure your warm bread.
- ◆ Make sure to stop by the gift shop to purchase their famous apple butter, which pairs perfectly with the hot rolls.
Heads Up
- ◆ Lambert's Cafe is cash or check only, though ATMs are available on-site; credit cards are not accepted.
- ◆ Keep your head on a swivel inside the dining room to avoid getting hit by a stray roll thrown to another table.
- ◆ The restaurant does not accept reservations, and your entire party must be present before you can be seated.
Common questions
Do they really throw the rolls at Lambert's Cafe?
Yes, servers at Lambert's Cafe throw hot, freshly baked yeast rolls across the dining room to diners who raise their hands.
Can you make reservations at Lambert's Cafe in Sikeston?
No, Lambert's Cafe does not accept reservations and seating is entirely on a first-come, first-served basis. Wait times can be long, especially on weekends and holidays.
How do the pass-arounds work at Lambert's Cafe?
Pass-arounds are complimentary, unlimited side dishes like fried okra, black-eyed peas, and apple butter that servers bring around to diners who have ordered an entree.
Does Lambert's Cafe accept credit cards?
Yes, Lambert's Cafe accepts major credit cards, personal checks, and cash.