Booches Billiard Hall
110 S 9th St, Columbia, MO, 65201
Booches Billiard Hall Menu
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.
Visit below restaurant in Columbia for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Columbia for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Columbia for healthy meals suggestion.
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
-
Address :
110 S 9th St
Columbia, MO, 65201 - Phone (573) 874-9519
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
Sorry, Store hours have not been updated. If you are the owner of this restaurants. Please update the store hours.
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : No
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Divey
Noise Level : Average
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : No
Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Drive-Thru : No
Caters : No
Categories
Burgers
Burger or Hamburger is savored as the most desired fast food meal in the United States. A hamburger is basically a sandwich prepared by stuffing ground meat patty, generally beef, between two slices of a bun cut in half. Hamburger is also famous for its seasoning. Most popular condiments used in hamburgers in the United States are mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup. Besides ground meat patty, hamburgers are also stuffed with lettuce, onions, tomato slices, pickles, and cheese.
Hamburgers are also categorized into two types in the United States. Fast food hamburger and individual hamburgers served at restaurants are two basic types of burgers served in the United States. The individual hamburgers served at restaurants are prepared using everything including lettuce, onion, tomato, and sliced pickles as well as melted cheese on the patty or crumbled on top. American restaurants also serve veggie burgers for those who don't relish meat. Cheeseburgers are also hot favorite in the United States.
McDonalds is the most popular fast food burger restaurant serving different types of burgers in the United States. On the other hand, there are several restaurants such as Burger King are famous for serving the best hamburgers in the United States. Most burger restaurants in the United States often serve hamburgers with French fries and other condiments. If you have a liking for burgers in the United States, then you won't be disappointed. You can easily find the best burger restaurants in your city on our Restaurants Listings directory. Check the reviews and ratings of the top burger restaurants and savor yourself with the best hamburger in the city.
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
Madeline K.
heaven.
(5)stacy b.
The burgers are amazing. We ordered one and immediately had to order a second. Two people drank beer, played pool and ate for two hours for $35 bucks. Service was great. Loved it!!
(5)B.j. M.
Been to this place over 20 times and not very often did I eat a burger that was less than very good. They're so simple but yet very good. I always had to order at least 2 because they aren't very big. My first experience with this place was in 2006, before the Italian restaurant opened next door. It was a billiards hall that was serving up some good looking food. My group of friends told me not to order it and then they took me to Booches. I originally ordered 1 burger but was talked into getting 2. Thank goodness because I ate both of them. I recall one of the bar tenders offering me a free drink for waiting so patiently. Of course I took the beer, watched the Bulls upset the Celtics in game 1 of the 2009 playoffs and waited for my food to get done. Remember folks: Cash only, no mayo, and if you're doing take out, call ahead of time.
(4)Christina L.
We came here after dinner...Yes, AFTER. We couldn't get in for dinner so we returned once the crowd died down. We heard that this place has delicious burgers and we all got the same burger with onions! The burger was presented to us on a small little napkin. I have no clue why, but I guess it's a tradition there. Personally, I love big plates for my burgers with my side of fries. A huge disappointment for me was the fact that they don't serve fries! WHAT?! No fries?! I was heartbroken. However, they do offer potato chips, but really that does not satisfy me. On to the burger, it was juicy and delectable. The cheese was perfectly melted onto the meat and the onions were an excellent touch. I also liked how the burger patty wasn't thick! So overall, the burger deserves an A.
(3)Christopher C.
Simple food that tastes great. You can't beat a couple sliders and a bag of Backers Red Hot chips. I love the atmosphere and appreciate the nostalgia of the place.
(4)Lenny G.
Burgers are smaller than a regular burger, and a little bigger than a traditional slider, cooked to order right behind the bar. Awesome bits of juicy goodness!! Will be back whenever we come to town.
(4)John K.
Unquestionably the best cheeseburger in the world. I'm willing to put this baby up against any challenger. This is a no frills place where if you are any good at pool or drinking beer, you may never leave. I would love to give you a detailed description of the burger, but I don't want you to drool and short circuit your electronic device. Don't bother asking for a credit card machine or french fries. They don't have time for that as they are busy grilling a burger that would be more than welcome in the Sistine Chapel. I also highly recommend the chili on a cold day and the butterflied hot dogs served on the same hamburger buns. For a place that originated in 1884, it has more than stood the test of time. This place is iconic for anyone who has ever enrolled at The University of Missouri. 130 years and still going strong. Respect your elders when it comes to where you eat. Booches has earned that reverence.
(5)Terry N.
This isn't a White Castle slider, not by a long shot, and that's a good thing. Booches' sliders are made from real beef, not whatever White Castle uses. There is absolutely nothing pretentious about Booches. You go there for the burgers and, if you want, to shoot pool or grab a beer.
(4)Carol C.
I like this place. Noisy, cluttered, and run down looking but they know how to make those lil cheeseburgers. Their burgers are simple...1/4 lb of beef, white onions, mustard, ketchup, and cheese...but it is delicious! I noticed their hamburger buns are from Hy-Vee (chain grocery store equivalent to Schnuck's, Ralph's, Albertson's). I don't care if it's from a grocery store or if they bake their own buns...It sure tastes good!
(4)Matt W.
This cheeseburger here?? It's the flamin'est burger in Columbia, and one of the best anywhere hands down. Simple, perfect. Get two. Get an egg on it. Get a beer. Love your life. Booches is Love, Booches is Life. These cheeseburgers are essential for space travel.
(5)Eve C.
Dirt cheap and delicious, Booches is a Columbia institution. Located in the center of town, just steps from campus, don't expect anything more than burgers (hot dogs are available too), cheap beer, and some pool tables. They also serve up a delicious and damn strong bloody mary. Don't be fooled - it's not a "burger joint." There are no fries or fancy drinks to go along with your burger - served on a square of wax paper, and stacked on a tray (if you order multiple). Service isn't stellar, but it doesn't need to be. If you pop in before a football game, either get there early or be prepared for a bit of a wait - it's a popular spot! There's a reason Booches has been around for over 100 years. Don't miss catching a slice of Columbia tradition!
(5)Angela N.
OMG!!! Don't expect fancy, but do expect incredibly delicious food! The chili was hands down the best I have ever had.
(5)Kevin K.
I graduated from Mizzou and every time I go back to Columbia, Booche's is one of my first stops. Yes, it's a dive pool hall, but the burgers are great. They're small little burgers served on tiny pieces of wax paper, but they are oh so good. My wife didn't go to school here and was skeptical, but agrees the burgers are great (Although, she constantly reminds me how disappointed she is that they don't serve french fries - only bags of chips). I went there this week and was shocked to see they had a local craft beer on tap (Logboat Brewing), because the taps usually consist of Coors and Boulevard (and sometimes Schlafly). Although I'm a craft beer guy, I had to re-live college days, and got a bottle of Stag and a bottle of Busch to enjoy with my 3 cheeseburgers. Although I've been there a ton of times, I always seem to forget they don't take credit cards, so make sure you've got cash.
(5)Josh B.
I ate one of the tiny burgers and I heard the Angels sing. The food is incredible. The environment is fun. A little divey and a little classy all rolled into one. Just go. Totally worth it.
(5)Liam H.
Get the burger. better yet, get two. They are about the size of your fist so not exactly sliders but not exactly full size burgers. After finishing the first burger you'll thank me for telling you to get two. Also, try the chili. Awesome combo on a cold winter day.
(5)Harry C.
I travel from 75 miles east to enjoy a cheeseburger at Booches. I've sent folks from California and Rhode Island to experience this place. You WILL NOT go wrong here - unless you arrive at the height of lunchtime! Seating is limited unless you're willing to sit with strangers. Even then it can be tough between 11 and 1300 hours. The burgers are fresh and come on a piece of wax paper. Their chili is famous, but I don't care for chili so try it yourself. They're closed on Sunday. ENJOY!!
(5)Darryl W.
Since 1880s. You can't get better ambiance or burgers. Anywhere. Sit at the bar while the owner cooks you a burger. Dive in!
(5)Terra S.
In town for a conference and my friend insisted we go here. Long time establishment. Small menu; burgers and dogs. Burgers are between the size of a slider and a normal burger. I don't normally do gluten but made an exception. Got two cheeseburgers. I really was impressed by these burgers. Cheese was white, not sure what kind. Meat was pretty thick and topped with onion and yellow mustard. You could also get ketchup and pickles. I do think people like these because they're pretty greasy and the meat is nicely seasoned. They don't have fries but those aren't necessary. Chips are available.
(4)David S.
I like the food here lot! They only take cash and I've heard stories that they can be very ride to people, but they've always be nice to me... If they ever are rude, I will probably change this review, but I've been many times and never had an issue. The burgers are greasy and delicious.
(5)Madison C.
Old billiard hall with amazing burgers! I love taking my parents there when they come to town they love the atmosphere! Yes you definitely want two burgers but they are delicious!!
(5)Mike C.
I live on the west coast now but was in Columbia from 85-91 flying the helicopter at University Hospital. Recently I had a work contact from Columbia and was thinking back to those days... and Booches was one of the first recollections. Many great after work sessions there and their burger is the best I have ever eaten. If/when I get back to Columbia Booches will be one of my first stops.
(5)Sam W.
Only cash and they close early and turn away paying customers! Get a new business model!
(1)Jeff J.
Booches (aka Club La Booche) is the same as it was 30 years ago - and that's a good thing. The burgers are just as I recall - close to perfect. Order two or three - they're small.
(5)Bryan M.
Downtown institution. Tiny burgers, but actually pink in the middle. Gotta' order two. CASH only! Side of chips. About $9 for two cheeseburgers, a cup of soda, and a bag of chips PLUS tip. Went for lunch today. Busy! (But, then this place is always busy.) Sadly, no time to play billiards ( ... okay, and who am I kidding ... also had a shortage of skill). Sidenote. I kid you not. I was looking up the address on my GPS (for giggles and to get a rough ETA), and someone somewhere had some fun with the name. My Garmin's database has this place listed as Club La Booche. Funny stuff.
(4)Rob R.
Okay this is a joint. Best burgers in Columbia but only expect the burger. No fries. No milk shake. The service is always good if you expect joint type service.
(5)Craig M.
Amazing burgers. Good cold beer. Chips are chips. As a chef and beer drinker I give it thumbs up. Thanks. As with everyone else don't expect plates or anything else fancy. My kind of bar.
(5)Chelsea B.
Booches is a laid-back place with good, juicy burgers. Don't expect too much when you go in here: it's a dive type place with a limited menu and minimalistic service. Don't expect fries or a plate, for that matter, but believe me you won't miss it. They do what they do well with no frills, and to me these are usually the best places. When you walk in go ahead and grab an open table, they'll serve you accordingly. The burgers are sliders (a cheeseburger is $2.75) so I can usually eat two and split a pitcher of beer with a friend. The burgers are juicy (and seem like hand-packed patties, am I right?), the buns are fresh, and the overall taste is perfection. Sometimes I get chips, but it's not necessary. The burgers can take some time depending on how full they are because it's basically one guy frying them up behind the bar, so reserve a little time to eat there. Make sure to bring cash and don't expect to grab a Booches burger on Sunday--they're closed, and they'll "see you in church." To me, burgers, beer, and a table by the window at Booches is the start to a great day in Columbia.
(4)Alan H.
Wow!!! They said it was great and it exceeded all my expectations. Great Burgers! Can't wait to go back. .
(5)Darin C.
Too bad I didn't start coming here sooner. Wonderful burgers and some of the best chili I've had in a long time. Even have some more chili in my cooler to eat later tomorrow (or early next week).
(5)Dotty R.
This was a great place to go have beers and wings after a game. It was crowded, loud at times, but cool. The food is good and I didn't have an issue with the noice. What do you expect in a college town? Nevertheless, I've been twice (thanks to my sweetie) and I'm sure that when we are back in Columbia, we'll be eating here again. Beers and all...
(4)Mike B.
The food at Booche's certainly isn't revolutionary or cutting edge, however it is excellent, inexpensive American fare- great hamburgers and hotdogs. Booche's is cash only, but is very reasonable.
(4)B Jackson S.
Normally I would give Booches 5 stars without a second thought, but after a recent visit to Columbia I was rather disappointed. Could be that my expectations were unreasonable, and I romanticized the burgers because I associate them with fond memories and a different, more carefree time in my life. But on this recent trip to Columbia in August 2013, those burgers were just not as juicy, not as succulent, not as bangin as I remember them. I still enjoyed my meal, but I had been expecting excellence and what I got was merely great.
(4)Julia W.
You can't call yourself a Columbian or a Mizzou Tiger until you've eaten a Booches burger. Booches is wonderfully dingy and the burgers are quite greasy, but in my opinion, it all adds to the appeal. The burgers are basically sliders, so I usually eat at least two. They also allow you to order it however you want, so feel free to pile on the cheese, ketchup, mayonnaise, grilled onions, etc., or just have it plain. What I love most about Booches is that it's just a cool place to hang out. With a great selection of beers and pool table rentals for $8/hour. There's no frills with the decor (it is mainly just old pictures and funny signs) and it just has that small, local, dive-y, burger joint vibe, including a cash only policy. However, there are two reasons I can't give Booches 5 stars. First, they don't serve fries. This is because they don't have a deep fryer, which I can respect, but it just feels wrong to me to have a burger without fries. And second is that they aren't open on Sundays. Booches is known for their sign on their door that reads "Closed on Sunday, see you in church," but I would appreciate a burger from them 7 days a week!
(4)Joe B.
I know this place is legendary among the locals, but I'm an outsider, so enjoy this completely unbiased review: Good sliders, good prices, good service. The place is kind of dingy, and although that's part of the Booches experience, the restaurant earned these two violations during their last health code inspection on 12/23/09: (1) SODA GUN HOLDER & DRAIN LINE MOLDY, SLIMY, (2) INSIDE ICE MAKING MACHINE HAS MOLD ON SURFACES. Although these problems were likely cured immediately, a restaurant should never let its "billiard hall flavor" affect (or infect) the healthy operation of a modern restaurant. While I was there, one of the male customers got a firm, but unwelcome, grasp on the hindquarters of one of the female servers. Although she was visibly and audibly upset, the authority-on-duty declined to take any action against the customer because he is apparently a Booches regular. In all, while Booches has good food, it does tend to play fast and loose with a variety of rules.
(3)Clayton R.
I think it is time to update this review!! I have been here several times since leaving Columbia. I have to say, that the ownership has really started to grind on me. There have been a couple of occasions where I've been treated like a stain on the floor, and I'm not sure why. The owner has always been a prick, but I think the fact that he operates in a small town with a lot of college kids that leave after a few years prevent him from learning from his mistakes. That being said, the burgers are still very delicious. I just don't feel compelled to come here like I used to, and that is a shame because it used to be one of my favorite places.
(3)Ryan W.
I spent a great deal of time in Columbia and whenever I find my way back to this great town, I ALWAYS go back to Booche's. It is my number 1 priority for any Columbia trip. Their burgers are some of the best I have ever had and their chili is not to be looked down upon as well. It has a great "old school" atmosphere that stands out among the college bars and clubs of downtown COMO. The people that work there may not be the friendliest people alive (I have to laugh sometimes at the lack of people skills) but it does not deter my mission for filling my body with these tiny burgers from heaven. At least order two burgers when going here, three if you really like to party.
(4)Devon P.
The first time I went here I was not prepared.. and therefore my experience suffered. I didn't know it was cash only, so I did not have any cash on me. I also did not realize that they did not have french fries.. which made me sad. The second time we were more prepared, and had a much better time. The burgers are great. Pork loin wasn't all that good.
(4)Sage I.
When my friends and I talk about going out to get a burger Booches inevitably comes up. Their sliders are great tasting and served on wax paper (which is just kinda cool) but they are a little steep in price and I'm not really a fan of eating a burger in a place that smells like urine. Price and smell are the reason for the loss of two stars from me, but they are tasty little burgers.... oh yeah, and it's cash only which is kind of a hassle.
(3)Kaylee N.
Probably the best burger I've ever had, even better than one of my favorite spots, 5 Guys. It's a little bar, not a ton of ambiance. I went there for lunch and it was pretty packed, not a lot of seating. It's cash only, but you won't need a lot of cash since it's so cheap. The burgers are served on a napkin and are closer to slider size than regular, so you may want to get more than one. They do not have a big menu, so don't try to find sides, though they do have small bags of chips. It's not a service oriented business, so don't expect your waitress to be especially attentive, but the burgers are worth it.
(5)Wiz W.
Epic burger! Seriously, it's the best burger I had. Juicy, tender, very appropriate seasoned. Maybe people can complain the environment, but I think absolutely nothing on food itself. One time, i even found a short, curly hair on the plate, which is highly doubtful on which part it from. But that still did not stop me finishing three burgers and go back here to give 5 stars. Well, taste is in first place, it kills. Others? they won't kill you.
(5)Jelena Z.
Booches makes me want to pack my bags and move back to Columbia. Overnight, refuge-style. Almost... I swear. I hadn't been here for almost a decade so allowed myself the guilty pleasure of ordering not the recommended two, but THREE sliders. Greasedribblingdownyourchin good! Nothing fancy about this spot, just little burgers served on waxed paper and only the most basic of condiments. No fries, no microbrews, no credit cards. Please meet me at Booches so we can rave about their burgers for the next decade.
(5)Michael S.
If you are into cool bars, then you can not get better than Booches! Great burgers, great prices, incredible atmosphere. This is exactly what a 100+ year old pool hall should be. Definitely worth the ride to Columbia! If you are looking for a fancy, clean restaurant, with lots of sever attention, go somewhere else, but if you like what I do, top 10 in my book!
(5)Tashia N.
Best. Burgers. Ever. The service is a little slow, but the food is so good that I've rarely noticed.
(4)LT H.
I was told that Booches had the best burgers in Columbia, MO. So of course I made it one of my first stops. The burgers are slider stye, so you'll want to order more than one. Be warned, there are no fries at Booches. No room for a fryer! They do have a variety of chips available. At first I was a little upset, but half way through my bag of Fritos I was like, "hey, I forgot how much I liked Fritos!" The other downside for me was NO MAYO. I love a little mayo on my burger. Was it the best burger ever?? No. But it was damn good. Hit the spot. I will definitely go back for more burgers and Fritos before I depart this cute little town. **Update** I just went back for my second helping. I really do love this place. Great people. Had a really good (giant) margarita tonight. And this time, I didn't miss the fries or the mayo. I just enjoyed my delicious burger. BOOCHES RULES!
(5)Ryan G.
Excellent burgers. Fun atmosphere in a great location. Would go again and again.
(4)Daniel F.
Great atmosphere and burgers. They are a little bigger than the typical slider, and they encourage you to get 2 or 3. If you get, say 3 cheesburgers, chips, and drink (no fryer there) we're looking at $15+. It can add up. But, the atmosphere and the quality of the burgers was worth it. Don't miss this if in the Columbia area. Make sure you have cash...no cards taken!
(4)Tanner T.
Absolutely amazing food, yet terrible service. As other reviewers have said, hunting down a waiter is part of the Booche's experience. The burgers are small, so make sure to order at least two. They are greasy, too. Almost perfectly greasy. Booche's is one of those places where you aren't really sure why you like it, but you do...so much that it's hard to stay away. Remember...they are closed on Sunday.
(3)Melissa A.
If I could only eat one burger in Columbia, Booches burger would be it. So classic and perfect in its simplicity. 2 burgers no cheese, bag of red hots and a pitcher of Boulevard pretty much optimizes a my perfect meal. Service isn't amazing, but having to track down an employee to take your order is part of Booches' charm.
(5)Christopher S.
Food: 3 stars Service: 1 star I wish I had read all of the Yelp reviews before eating here. I really had high hopes for Booches, but the owner and staff just ruined it for me. I rolled in at around 3 o'clock on a Saturday afternoon. I sat down at the bar and placed my order: two cheeseburgers and a Coke. The coke was served in a paper cup like you get at the fairgrounds. Cool. So far, so good. This being a Yelp-induced review, I reached into my backpack and pulled out my DSLR to shoot some food photos. When I aimed it at the soda cup, you would have thought that I'd just pulled out a 9mm handgun and waved it around. The staff flipped. You can't take photos in here. Not even photos of your food. Especially not photos of the grill. The owner doesn't allow it. The staff indicated that the owner was sitting at a table behind me and if he saw my camera, he would go ballistic and attempt to take it from me. "We're just trying to save you from the embarrassment, man," said my waiter. Are you f*@#ng kidding me? Get over yourself, guy. Your restaurant isn't that magical. Your food isn't that magical. Your burgers are ground beef on Wonder Bread standard hamburger buns, topped with sliced white onions, american cheese slices, foodservice ketchup and mustard. They are tasty, but this restaurant isn't the damned recipe for Coke. Please stop acting like it is. It's a shame that what could be a great little dive is ruined by the flaming asshole that runs it.
(2)Rob P.
Days later, I am craving another Booches burger, and Las Vegas just doesn't have it. I was warned our wait would be long but it would be worth it. To our surprise, service was fast and we got our burgers super quick. It was delicious. I wish I had more than just one.
(4)Grant R.
Pretty good burgers like your mom used to make at home. Served on a square of wax paper for $3.50. It's a Columbia staple and probably hasn't changed a lick since it opened.
(4)Anchalee M.
I live in Boston now. Despite the great seafood here, I've never found a hamburger out here that tasted quite as good as Booches. ~ $3.00 seems like a lot to spend for such a small hamburger, but worth every penny. My husband and I (both mizzou alums) often wish teleporting to CoMo were possible so we could grab a burger from Booches!
(4)Emily D.
My boyfriend is a University of Missouri graduate and would probably end the relationship if I didn't give Booches a 5 star review. Not fancy Not healthy Not expensive... on the contrary dirty college bar greasy ass mini burgers cheap as ever I had a diet coke and a bite of a burger and loved it. My boyfriend ate 2 burgers and a beer and regreted not having more once we left Columbia.
(5)Kip F.
Two tiny burgers, Backer's Red Hots, and a coke please. Grilled onions and cheese, ketchup and mustard. Simplistic, and pure bliss. This place has been the corner stone for my burger cravings whenever I come back in to town. Yes you may have to wait a bit during the lunch rush, and if you have a limited lunch break, don't go. The wood work really sets the tone of the place and the pool hall is great to invite some friends too, but I'm mostly there for the burgers. Its a bit gritty but it's always been a pleasant visit. Order at least two, and a bag of Red Hots is required. And sit back and enjoy probably one of the juiciest mini burgers you'll ever get you'r hands on.
(5)Cat L.
these lil burgers are to die for! its always packed but its always worth the wait
(4)Justin M.
Booches. Burgers. Billiards. Boom! Seriously awesome burgers served by an amazing staff... you know the place is either really awful, or really good when they've had the same workers for years. Well... this is the latter. They're not fast, they don't take cash, and they don't have a sprawling menu, but they're worth the wait, you can go to an ATM down the street, and you may be surprised at their soups and other sandwiches... But let's be honest. You're there because you've heard about their burgers... and they are well worth the trip. No fries, but the chips are kettle cooked and delicious.
(4)Scott P.
Great sliders. I mean it. They're really freakin good.
(4)Luke M.
I know it's a sin to say this, but I don't know what's so great about this place. Maybe dirty, college, billiard bar with greasy, not that flavorful burgers just isn't my thing. I would probably give it 2 stars if this was an anonymous review.
(3)Mike S.
Best little greasy burgers in Columbia! Not gourmet by any means. The trick is cheap meat (greasy is tasty), the bun is your typical enriched bleached flour bun from the economy sack. Their flat-top grill is what makes these greasy burgs delicious... That being said, the burgers are overpriced for their size (a Booches burger is no more than a small snack) and the employees often act like they're doing you a favor. I've been around downtown CoMo for a number of years and I've done a lot of service work and I don't act this way and I know it's a habit for their workers because I've gotten the same treatment many times and so have lots of other friends. I think you might have to eat here at least 50 times a year before they 'warm up' to you. But guess what, that's not how service industry works - a thank you and a smile and maybe I'll drop a couple bucks for you to pick up that used wax paper. The old decor fits the place well and they also have quality pool and snooker tables. Really these burgers are worth two bucks and these people just think they are TOO awesome because of one write up in USA Today over ten years ago.. Times have changed folks and I've had awesome burgers elsewhere. Therefore, you get docked two stars.
(3)Jen S.
Top of the list for best burgers in Columbia. Great little sliders.
(5)William H.
Booches is known for one thing really and they do it better than any place of it's kind that I've ever been in. I knew I was in for a real treat when I first saw the stacks of hand pattied sliders stacked and seperated by thin pieces of wax paper. They don't give you plates but slide the burgers down to you on little pieces of wax paper. They're amazing just to look at with the melted cheese and the juices from the meat trickling down the side. They're even more amazing to taste. If you're in the mood for a good slider you'll be proclaiming this place heaven on Earth once you've finished those meaty little morsels.
(5)Sarah H.
This is my favorite bar in town. I never come to just sit down and eat, usually a couple games of a pool, pitcher of beer, and a couple of burgers. I've never really had an issue with the service because I'm never sitting and waiting on someone so I can't judge the same as others on that. Originally was annoyed they didn't take cards but it just took some adjusting too.
(5)Justin F.
Friendly staff, burgers were good, but not spectacular like they were hyped to be. I would definitely check this place out if you are in Columbia, beats any other burger place in town. Slightly pricey. Not too original on their burgers though, would be better with some creative toppings.
(3)Corey M.
Cool spot and good burgers. Don't be looking for sides--they don't have any!!
(4)Chad C.
Wonderful burgers and intriguing signs, but pretty ordinary otherwise. I'm sure that, if I lived in Columbia, this review would become 5-stars because it's simply where folks go. That certainly adds to its cachet for townies looking for a good bar at which to hang out and play pool. But until that day I do live here, I'll be saying it's A-OK.
(3)Merce'de S.
Good food, but a little bit pricey for the portions and service. The burgers are delicious, but since it's more of a billiard hall, and thus no fridge to keep things cold (like tomatoes for burgers) and no fryer for french fries, options are fairly limited. Also, space is limited so get there early to grab a seat. Otherwise you'll be waiting for a while.
(4)Kia D.
Tried it at last! To be honest, I had heard a lot of things about this "institution" and how you have not experienced Columbia without going there. Having gone there, I can safely say, there is no need. Get a better, cleaner, and safer burger somewhere else and rest assured you haven't missed much. I had a lot of fun the night I went there (mostly due the great company I was with). And the burgers were alright taste-wise. But would I go back? probably not.
(2)Sara O.
I have come to the conclusion that we need one of these in Chicago. I have searched high and low for a place that sells mini-burgers as good as these, but no one has made the cut as of yet (though Sidebar Grille is probably the closest that I have tasted). These burgers are juicy, greasy, tender, delicious. This joint is small and can get pretty crowded around the lunch hour. I've shared a table with a stranger or two during several visits--but that doesn't bother me! I don't go there for the atmosphere (even though going to dive bars is kind of my thing), I go there for the food. There's actually another thing that doesn't bother me about this place and that's the service. The service is slow, due to the size of the grill, which probably fits a max of 10 burgers at a time. And the wait staff is definitely lacking a friendly smile. But who cares? Like I said, I'm here for the burgers. I NEED A BOOCHES BURGER. I'd pay big bucks for them to pack up there things and move to Chicago...
(5)Curt O.
The ambiance isn't much to speak of. It is the oldest bar (est 1884) in Columbia. They have a little fry grill in the window behind the bar. No room for a deep fryer, so no French Fries. The Best that you could say about the bathrooms are that they are small. Service was fine. 3 of us on a Saturday afternoon. We were able to find a table (seat yourself). CASH ONLY. No Credit Cards, no Checks. Selection of beers on tap was OK. Had a Blvd wheat followed by pale ale. Two cheese burgers with a bag of Backers chips. They were good, no question of that. Nothing fancy - these are not your $6.00 burgers. More like $3.00. If you search for it, you will find that Booches' burgers have been selected as some of the top burgers in the country. Not sure how those things get rated, but the place is certainly worth checking out if you are in Columbia and in the mood for a burger at a little different kind of joint.
(4)Dennis C.
Great burgers friendly staff. My friend and I go there to play pool and have a few beers. Best pool hall I've been to yet.
(5)Chris B.
Went again this weekend and as always, the burgers were great. I really love these greasy little bites of goodness. Would get a 5th star if they took credit cards because I hate having to go get cash.
(4)Robert J.
Be careful with the burgers. I ate there recently and the burger was ready 6-8 minutes after I ordered it, which is very fast for cooking a burger at this place. The inside was raw, but I ate it anyway. Wrong!!! Cramped up 12 hours later, went to the doc and tested positive for e-Coli. Sick for 4 days...severe abdominal pain, bloody stool, you get the picture. Been eating there for 37 years, but don't plan to go back after what happened. Cook quality has been sporadic since changing ownership a few years back.
(3)Cindi S.
For a delicious, juicy burger, there is nowhere better than Booches. Nothing fancy, but good burgers and friendly service...for LOTSA years!
(5)Brad W.
Booches is a very well known establishment to the residents of Columbia. If you're eating at Booches, you're ordering one thing... Burgers! Their delectable little burgers are worth traveling across the country for. While I'm no longer a resident of Columbia, this is THE place I stop to eat for lunch every time I go back for a Tiger football game. When ordering here, you have to order at least 2 burgers, but maybe 3 or 4 for the very hungry man. They also have great soups, and their chips are a standard precursor while waiting on your sandwiches. So WHY did I rate only 4 stars with such an awesome review? Simple... the service is pretty bad. The wait staff doesn't exactly spit on your food... but they certainly don't care about the customers. Just don't expect a smile along with your food. Oh, and these guys LOVE the Cardinals. Don't you dare wear a Chicago Cubs hat in this place. Also... BRING CASH. No Credit Cards accepted. Although there is an ATM across the street. And yes, there are pool tables here. Decent tables. But that is not why people come here.
(4)Michael S.
Accidentally went into Billiards and asked for a Booches Burger. They didn't think my mistake was funny at all. I don't even know why I identified the burger by the establishment. I guess Booches is soo good I can't even order a burger somewhere else without thinking about it.
(5)Annee T.
It's a local institution and not overrated. The tiny burgers served on wax paper are as good as it gets. With a nice beer it's perfection! I also love the wooden benches and pool tables in the back.
(5)Tender B.
This place is a Columbia local favorite. The burgers at Booche's are delicious and deserve 5 stars. The interior is a little dirty and dim. Service is okay.
(3)A D.
Many bars serve food and many lay claim to fabulous burgers, beers, or whatnot. In towns across the US, especially college towns, these places become institutions. But Booches, while certainly an institution, is something more...it is a legend. The burgers are simple but succulent and unrivaled in their taste. Add to that the dark wood bar, the antique pool, snooker, and billiard tables, the crowd, the mythical figures who've come and gone, you have the makings of an institution. But Booches is more than the sum of it's parts. Ask anyone who has ever--and I mean ever- spent any time inside this bar, and they will rave. Ask anyone who has resided in Columbia for any length of time, and they will affirm what I've just written. My god, but Booches, many years ago, even had it's own literary review! This is a place where grad student TA's have even held office hours! All this...and they only have Bud Light on tap...and I hate Bud Light (they do have other beer in bottles, though). Do yourself a favor, and check this place out. Like one of the other reviewers, I left Columbia over ten years ago. But whenever I'm in town, I make Booches and their burgers a mission. Do yourself another favor and do the same.
(5)erin s.
It's true that this place is a local legend. I encourage everyone living in Columbia or visiting to eat here. The cook stands in the window and the food is brought to you on pieces of wax paper (unless something has changed since I've been there). It's a dark, dank place with cold beer and great food and it's in a great location with plenty of parking.
(5)Justin W.
I never liked it as much as everyone else, but its status at an Icon in Columbia cannot be denied. The burgers are good and the staff is always nice.
(4)Micah P.
If you haven't been here yet, leave now and make sure you order at LEAST two burgers. They is really tiny! But, oooweeee! they are definitely the best burgers in Columbia, and possibly the best little burgers i've ever had. Nothing fancy here...just meat and cheese and onions and mustard and ketchup. They don't have mayonnaise there...but fear not, there's a subway across the street you can stop by and snipe some mayo packets from on your way to experiencing a fantastic burger at one of the coolest dive-style restaurants in Columbia.
(5)Patrick C.
I went to this place for my birthday, and it was great! I have two cheeseburger's and coke. It was worth every little penny. The burgers seem to have great mix of salt and grease! The atmosphere is pretty cool to, makes me wonder what this play would have been like when you still smoked indoors. Anyway, you give this place a try. It is worth the wait!
(5)little red c.
booches rules. i've yet to find a better burger in this town.
(5)Aly F.
If you live in Columbia, MO and haven't been to Booches, you've committed a serious crime! With chili out of this world and the best "baby burgers" I've ever tasted this place is a legend in CoMO! While it tends to get quite crowded around lunch time, it's defintiely worth the wait. As a college student, I find it quite affordable and you leave full for the money. Remember that they only take cash/local checks, no credit/debit for this place! It's also pretty helpful that prices include tax. A friend and I took his family there on a Friday for lunch and they wanted to go back again on Saturday. I would reccomend Booches to anyone who wants a great burger-- you won't find a better one in Columbia!
(5)Miriam W.
Want to end your night right? Get a burger at Booches. Don't expect frills here, or even a plate. Burgers are served on waxed paper, and big eaters will likely need to order at least two.
(4)Mariana P.
Yum yum yum, excuse me if I have nothing else to say as my mouth is full with the world's best burger. I'm not joking. It's like an orgasm of the mouth. Seriously. Eat one. Do it. FYI- cash only.
(5)V. J.
i left columbia 10 years ago (has it been that long???). booches alone could bring me back (if it wasn't for those summers, oh, and those winters). this is STILL my favorite bar of all time (sorry san francisco). and when i show up randomly, 9 years later, rick remembers me. i love booches!! i miss those days of burgers, stag and doing crosswords at the window table. someday maybe i'll come home....
(5)Richard T.
Awesome burgers, bad service. It took upwards of an hour to get served the last time I was there, and there might have been no more than 8 people in the entire place. Hell, I think another party that was twice as large and arrived later got served before we did. I've been to burger places that take 45 minutes to fry the burger, but those places a) warn you beforehand it will take 45 minutes, and b) cook a burger so thick you could hide a shot of bourbon inside them. Sadly, Booches qualifies for neither excuse.
(3)Ian S.
Best. Burgers. Ever. Served up on a square of waxed paper, their burgers are small, simple, and so good.
(5)Sara L.
If you haven't had Booche's you haven't had burgers. I grew up here and being 1500 miles away still hasn't killed my cravings. A truly amazing burger and a laid-back, seasoned atmosphere. If you're anywhere near Columbia, MO Booche's is worth the trip.
(5)