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Welcome to First Ward House

Welcome to First Ward House, a charming New American eatery nestled in Saint Joseph, MO. With a casual yet vibrant atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for families and friends alike. Our menu features tantalizing sandwiches like the Clyde and Bonnie Tenderloin, crafted from fresh, seasoned beef and served on a soft kaiser bun. Complement your meal with our delightful appetizers or refreshing salads. The venue buzzes with live music, lends itself to good conversations, and offers outdoor seating for a relaxed dining experience. At First Ward House, every meal is a celebration of flavor and community, inviting you to savor the moment.

First Ward House: Reviews & Ratings

Johan J.
Johan J.

Came from out of town got the smoked wings, they were very good, the server was very nice & prices are fairly cheap

Stephanie A.
Stephanie A.

St Joseph's oldest bar is also home of the best pork tenderloin sandwich we have ever tasted and has an extensive selection of Boulevard beers on tap. If that's not enough, they specialize in wings and smoke their own meats. Many menu items are named after Jesse James The original brick wall still stands, as does the original bar. This space has survived multiple fires and continues on with an open heart, cheery staff and a persistent soul. A must-visit for history, for the yummy tastes, and the ambiance when in St Joseph

Robert L.
Robert L.

Barbecue sandwiches were good. Wings were good, but odd that the Memphis Wings were heavily sauced. Fries were undercooked, limp and lifeless. The server was very good and food came out quickly.

Melissa I.
Melissa I.

Great place. Stopped in on a Monday afternoon. Carryouts were steady the entire time we were there. Service was great, pinball was fun, and food was amazing. I had the wings with Zombie sauce. Very moist and lots of meat. Highly recommended. My husband had the pork tenderloin. Not too thin and not too thick and batter was crispy. Fried mushrooms for appetizer were hand battered .

Bobby E.
Bobby E.

Best wings I've ever eaten And the beer was cold. My service was top notch. The whole experience was positive.

Missy M.
Missy M.

We stopped here after Chiefs training camp with family. Definitely a pub. We picked this place for their BBQ but sadly they did not have any. My husband was looking forward to brisket. We ordered the sampler appetizer to share, fried pickle spears, fried green bean and spicy corn nuggets. They were all good but I think the green beans were the best. I ordered the tenderloin and fries. The fries were super yummy, good seasoning. Tenderloin was okay, barely as big as the bun. My husband ordered the spicy burger and sweet potato fries. The fries were very good. The burger had good flavor and crust but wasn't spicy at all. Just needed a kick to it. Others in our party had nitro wings and the tenderloin. The wings were said to be on point. Waitstaff were super nice and helpful on suggesting what to order.

Mike K.
Mike K.

Great dive bar! Service was great! Friendly and fast. Five starts for a dive bar? Well, yes, because they do it well - great service and great dive bar food. Had their house burger with a bacon add- $10 for the McWard burger and fries and $0.75 for bacon. Who has these prices anymore? Now, it is a dive bar- (did I mention that?) so it isn't the cleanest place. Windows dirty, menus not wiped down. Let's just say it isn't a place for a germaphobe. Huge deck on the back. Might have to put up with cigarette smoke- but hey, this is a dive bar. Decent music. I think they may have bands on some nights. Fries seemed fresh cut- not the typical fries you get. Definitely decent. The burger though- I don't know what they season it with, but it will bring me back. Tasty!!! A burger and fries, add bacon and a couple draft beers and I got out for just under $20 before tip. Wow. In 2022? I'll definitely return because I want to try the tenderloin.

Angela B.
Angela B.

Delicious local place in St. Joseph, Missouri! I had the Jesse Jane which was a mix of BBQ and coleslaw for a low carb/keto option. Hands down some of the best food I've had in St. Joe!

Location

Welcome to the culinary charm of First Ward House, a delightful New American restaurant nestled in the heart of St. Joseph, MO. Here, the essence of classic diner fare meets modern flair, making it a must-visit for locals and travelers alike. This unclaimed gem is known for its vibrant atmosphere, full bar, and inviting outdoor seating that elevates your dining experience.

Location: 2101 Saint Joseph Ave, St. Joseph, MO 64505 Phone: (816) 248-0585

First Ward House is perfect for both casual outings and special gatherings. Whether you are looking for a place to unwind with friends or enjoy a family dinner, the restaurant is equipped with great amenities like

  • Delivery and Takeout
  • Reservations
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Live Music
  • TV for Sports Lovers

What sets First Ward House apart is its focus on mouthwatering sandwiches and hearty appetizers. The Clyde Tenderloin Sandwich and Bonnie Tenderloin Sandwich are standout dishes, boasting a generous half-pound of fresh tenderloin, deep-fried to perfection and seasoned with the restaurant's secret blend. Each sandwich is served on a kaiser bun and can be personalized with your choice of fixings, enhancing the experience for every palate.

If you're in the mood for something lighter, the Buffalo Chicken Salad—crispy chicken strips drenched in zesty buffalo sauce atop a bed of fresh greens—offers the right kick alongside refreshing flavors. Meanwhile, the Ward House Salad complements lighter appetites with its blend of greens and delicious toppings.

Don’t overlook the delightful appetizers either! The Cheese Babies and Mozzarella Sticks are fantastic options that tantalize your taste buds and set the tone for a fulfilling meal.

As you immerse yourself in the ambiance of casual but lively decor, the moderate noise level, and the thrill of live music, you can truly appreciate why First Ward House has become a local favorite. It’s a space that embraces good food, hearty laughter, and quality conversations—a place where memories are made over shared meals.

Whether you're stopping by for dinner or planning a night out with friends, First Ward House invites you to indulge in its savory delights and friendly service. Come hungry and leave happy!