About Us

Ernie’s Cafe and Steakhouse was founded in 1934 by owner Ernie Lewis. At the time, Ernie’s was one of the more popular places that couples went out to eat for dinner and Ernie’s featured a “Date Steak” option on the menu. Over the years, Ernie’s Cafe and Steakhouse has changed ownership several times and has evolved into Columbia’s favorite option for breakfast and lunch. If you’re looking for a great steak for breakfast or lunch, you can’t beat Ernie’s. Voted “Best of Columbia” for breakfast by readers of Inside Columbia magazine for every year since the award began in 2008, Ernie’s is a great value for your dining dollar. 
 
Our outdoor patio is open during the Spring, Summer and Fall as weather permits and our inside dining room has that classic diner feel.
 
The original artwork hanging in the diner was done by Chester Gould, creator of Dick Tracy. Chester’s daughter attended Stephens College in the 1940’s, and he would always come into Ernie’s when visiting his daughter. He enjoyed our Chopped Cow so much, that he made this original drawing for our restaurant.

OPEN 7 Days a Week!

6:30am – 2pm

(573) 874-7804

1005 E Walnut St, Columbia, MO 65201