Lake hideaway packs a lot of bite

Lake Sun
newsroom@lakesunonline.com

Located on the Big Niangua Arm, Gator's Bar and Grill knows how to draw in a crowd to the quieter part of the lake.
With weekly food and drink specials, live music and an expanded menu, the new Gator’s owners Becky and Darin Vaughan are quickly developing a fan-base with folks in the area and tourists.
Before the couple took over July 1, they worked as career professionals. Darin, who worked as a cardiac nurse, has always enjoyed cooking and wanted to have his own restaurant, Becky said.
Becky, who worked in real estate, said she was drawn to the idea of owning a waterfront place.
Now, they both work as a team, with Darin working in the kitchen, and Becky managing the front house.
So far, Becky said, it's been good, thanks to support from locals and people they know in the community.
After taking over, the new owners added menu items such as fajitas, Ahi tuna, BLT pizzas and Irish potato nachos, which have quickly become customer favorites.
There is also a children’s menu for “lil gators” ages 12 and younger.
On the weekends, they also have live music and usually bring bands that play rock and country tunes. Even though the inside dining area can hold about 120 inside, Becky said it gets so busy on weekends that a lot of people are standing.
Customers may also choose to dine outside, if they prefer.
The restaurant also serves up specials throughout the week, including a $1 taco night on Thursdays.
Gators is located north of Camdenton at 1022 Nautica Rd.
For more information, call 573-873-5115 or visit the restaurant’s Web site, gatorsatozarks.com

About Gator’s

Get there
By boat 3.5 MM Big Niangua Arm
By car Highway 5 north to Highway 7 to Route EE
Hours Monday - Sunday 11 a.m.-close
Menu price range
$6-$22
Specials
Food Monday-Thursday; Happy hour Monday - Thursday, 5-6 p.m.
Online
http://gatorsatozarks.com