Lake hot spots: Casablanca’s

Stop by Casablanca’s on the Bagnell Dam Strip for a drink and you may find yourself staying all day.
The locals know Casablanca’s as the neighborhood bar where friends and conversation is always in good supply. And happy hour specials every weekday keep them coming back for more.
Evan Alden, Casablanca’s unofficial treasurer, stops by at least once a day, without fail, to count the tip jar and make sure other patrons are doing their part.
The restaurant/bar is named after one of the greatest movies created; and true to its namesake, the restaurant is decorated in movie posters and other movie memorabilia.
On special holidays, the decorations are switched out for linen tablecloths and a sitdown menu.
On the weekends, live singers and piano players entertain the crowd.
The building has been a fixture on the Bagnell Dam Strip for years. It once housed the Lake Ozark Post Office and became a watering hole in the early 1950s.
Years after the original Casablanca first opened, it became known as Slick’s Bar, a popular gathering place for pool tournaments.
In 2004, new owners decided to revert back to the old name but overhaul the building. After extensive renovations, the bar opened to a Memorial Day crowd.
Favorite food: The locals top choice on the menu is a toss up between the sliders, pork tenderloin sandwich or KC strip entree.
Favorite drink: It’s your typical local bar. Staff say Scotch and beer are served most often.
Dress code: Casual.
Reservations: Not required.
Prices: Sandwiches run about $6; entrees about $10.
Hours: 11 a.m.-close, seven days a week.
Where: 1312 Bagnell Dam Strip.
Contact this reporter at deannaw@lakesunleader.com