Ambush Family Restaurant
About This Spot
Stepping into the Ambush Family Restaurant feels like entering a warm, familiar pause from the outside world—a cozy, unpretentious haven where time slows just enough for genuine connection and comfort. Nestled in Florence, Missouri, this small American eatery carries the kind of easygoing rhythm that invites both longtime regulars and newcomers alike to settle in without fuss or hurry.
The mood here is quietly lively, shaped by the friendly chatter of locals and visitors sharing stories over hearty meals. Walls decked with rustic, country-inspired decorations create an intimate atmosphere that’s equal parts homey and welcoming. It’s one of those places where you can genuinely enjoy the simple pleasure of a meal made with care, and where neighbors gather around tables that know their names—or at least will by the time you leave.
The kitchen serves up classic, soulful American fare that feels thoughtfully familiar without being predictable. Imagine a plate brimming with crispy, golden-fried catfish alongside tender sides that complement rather than overwhelm. From the tempting all-you-can-eat fish options to the satisfying Sunday fried chicken, every offering holds an approachable heartiness that encourages sharing stories and savoring moments. And there’s a sweetness on the horizon too—the kind of pie that encourages lingering conversations and perhaps a second slice.
Service here reflects the pace of the place: unhurried but sincere. It’s clear that good food takes a little time, and the warmth from the staff makes every minute feel worthwhile. Ambush Family Restaurant doesn’t rush the experience—it invites you to be present, to enjoy your company, and to appreciate the kind of simple, honest flavors that don’t seek applause, only contented smiles.
What’s Available Here
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Fast service
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Great dessert
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Serves local specialty
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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All you can eat
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Coffee
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Comfort food
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Healthy options
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Quick bite
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Small plates
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Counter service
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Toilet
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Casual
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Cosy
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Historic
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Family friendly
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Groups
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Tourists
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Accepts reservations
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Cheques
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Debit cards
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NFC mobile payments
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Good for kids
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
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Free of charge street parking
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Free parking lot
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Parking
Location & Hours
| Monday | Closed | |
| Tuesday | Closed | |
| Wednesday | Closed | |
| Thursday | Closed | |
| Friday | 05:00 PM - 08:30 PM | |
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| Saturday | 05:00 PM - 08:30 PM | |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM - 02:00 PM |
Jenny Stegner 20 Dec 2025
Great place to eat! We drive over an hour to eat there and it's worth it!
Lael Rudisill 14 Dec 2025
Finally got a chance to eat here after hearing it about it a lot from a friend on a fishing forum. The grilled catfish was Delicious and went well with the tater tots and beans. Also enjoyed the coconut cream pie. The decor on/along the walls was very cool and fitting for the country restaurant atmosphere. Ended talking with Dale for around 45 mins and he sure is a hoot! Will def eat here again. - visited again today and had the patty melt. The onions and cheese meshed well with the patty and the tater tots are quite good! Dale and his staff are a hoot.
Shelby 11 Dec 2025
CASH ONLY! Absolutely delicious Catfish! Great very friendly service, and the pie was to die for, we will most definitely be returning.
Jeff Jenkins 02 Dec 2025
Had the excellent all you can eat catfish on Friday. Fries were great too. Wife really liked her chicken strips. Nice little place that's worth the drive.
Kenny Meloy 10 Nov 2025
Very small place with a large following !!! Highly recommend. It's worth the drive. Don't be in a hurry. Good food takes time.
Holly Templemire 25 Oct 2025
I hadn't been here for a while but the food and service is excellent. They are going to close the restaurant at the end of the year. They need someone to buy or take over the Ambush that way it doesn't have to close. Florence Mo needs this Restaurant to keep going as long as it can. I am really disappointed to see this happen. I hope that someone that could keep it going and afford to run it comes along.There is a lot of people that would agree I'm sure.
Chris 13 Oct 2025
Don't judge this book by its cover. An unassuming restaurant from the outside, the food and service contained within are simply wonderful. We haven't had a bad meal yet, and we eat here a lot. Burgers, chicken, and pork tenderloin for starters. Catfish is on the list too. And the desserts? Absolutely amazing. We haven't had a better coconut cream pie anywhere else! Oh, and on Thursdays? Pizza Night and we always buy three of them. The service is great and the owner generally stops by your table to make sure everything was to your liking. If you like eggs, be sure to buy some on the way out. $4 for eighteen farm-fresh eggs if I remember right. They're awesome!
Clarence Mcclure 30 Sep 2025
Excellent food and owners highly recommended home cooking