Finn’s
One Sunday last fall, my husband Travis and I found ourselves with some free time (what?) and without kids (thanks, Grandma), so we decided to celebrate by eating out.
“There’s a place I’ve been following on Facebook called Finn’s that looks intriguing,” I said. “Let’s try that.”
Always eager for a new experience (and also really, really hungry), we hopped into the car and followed the directions on the GPS, which led us to what appeared to be a former supermarket. We paused in front of the building, seeing signs for Precision Pilates and The Emerson, but not Finn’s. “The GPS says it’s supposed to be here,” I insisted, seemingly forgetting the multiple times that Google Maps had previously led me astray.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-building.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=262b1e75d78cf5e45b23a5c2157fd83d 312w)
“Let’s check out what’s on the side of the building,” suggested Travis.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-front-entrance.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=290bd6592480504a0d1d9c84039d3b98 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-front-entrance.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=24d85f20f537be4ca1aa70934345bc63 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-front-entrance.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=5f9f50fd5e783d59baa1ff7608a84b17 580w)
We rounded the corner, and there it was: the entrance to Finn’s.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-emersons-room.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=ddbfb2882932ad10034f84e0a702d1fe 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-emersons-room.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=8e962a25d8fe0cec50d1faf88082635c 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-emersons-room.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=de3cd5f63dc7da41648a32643db0a41e 600w)
Inside, there was a spacious dining room with crystal chandeliers to our left (which we learned is part of The Emerson Event Center), and a small room which operates as a restaurant and bar to our right (which is Finn’s).
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-doorway.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=6cdc2434a44006f31677793da7bead4b 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-doorway.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=98a44b77254edb51c376e7f4932beb60 447w)
With its stone fireplace, paneled walls, and substantial chairs made from rich wood and leather, the room feels like a library in a traditional English manor, and reminds me of an atmosphere often found in upscale restaurants in big cities.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-dining-room-2.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=f9a32a012d3e9476b14ca912619b4e60 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-dining-room-2.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=019b13f071aa24219c8a1209d79c8db9 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-dining-room-2.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=34f3f8c0eca29640d94d766439f20d01 600w)
Brunch
The crackling fire felt cozy and inviting on that chilly day, and we were glad that there was a table available right next to it so that we could enjoy its warmth. I’d been craving Eggs Benedict, so that’s what I ordered, crossing my fingers that Finn’s would deliver a satisfying version of my favorite brunch dish.
And they did.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/girls-outdoor-weekend-finns-eggs-benedict.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=39ee8fbd0fc5bc2996f49cbf5e3ab92a 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/girls-outdoor-weekend-finns-eggs-benedict.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=aebafae98700b2d2b75b01417ac44d25 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/girls-outdoor-weekend-finns-eggs-benedict.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=7654d7009ea05309a4e4415e97efcd03 600w)
Served on a hearty split English muffin, the savory bourbon-glazed ham complimented the delicate poached egg and creamy Hollandaise sauce, and made my mouth so happy. The seasoned home fries that were served with the dish were addicting – and filling. I reached a point where I could eat no more, and took the remainder of my meal home to feast on later.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-burger.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=16cea745c92a6b21c844d30da777a8f2 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-burger.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=e466fbdc5a077dcd86452eb84ef1b1d4 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-burger.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=45784ddbd0ed6092797b5060e157e6c3 600w)
Since we were eating around one o’clock, Travis was more in the mood for lunch, so he ordered the inventive Hangover Burger, a smash burger topped with pepper jack cheese, chorizo, a fried egg, and avocado. It delivered a mouthful of smoky, spicy flavors.
Other intriguing brunch menu items at Finn’s include Honey Chicken and Biscuits, Raspberry Cream Stuffed French Toast, and Clark’s Cheesecake Omelet. There are also a variety of salads, sandwiches, and tacos to satisfy any palate. And you can sip on a mimosa or a Bloody Mary to make your leisurely brunch experience complete.
Dinner
Once we discovered Finn’s, we couldn’t get enough of it. Within the next few weeks, we returned to Finn’s for brunch and lunch with friends and family, and then for dinner on our date night when we, once again, sat next to the crackling fire (so romantic!).
We started with drinks and appetizers. Travis ordered The Emerson, which is a Moscow Mule served with basil and cucumber.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-emerson-drink.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=34d83553e6ff44ad2dbe8feb5c170031 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-emerson-drink.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=a0a0bbfea833db816ec33157830e335a 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-emerson-drink.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=ee11b5af77ecb00905149e75724ab794 570w)
I ordered The 32nd Street, which was made with bourbon, simple syrup, fresh blackberries, and mint.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-32nd-street-drink.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=1add498b8e5e66b5cc63c786c0e91e57 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-32nd-street-drink.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=7513d7110a48159486b7457354896731 500w)
I like how the drinks are named after people and places connected with the restaurant and Joplin. It’s a nice touch.
Travis ordered the shrimp cocktail, which came with a generous number of plump shrimp.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-shrimp-cocktail.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=e792e4c67aa8ea1404d6b15ca1cbd3fe 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-shrimp-cocktail.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=13efcc2c7dfa65a01c3441cdc9f96fe8 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-shrimp-cocktail.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=109f9db0b1dda1475ae57aa8b3b5fefd 600w)
I ordered bruschetta, which is a popular appetizer here, according to our server.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-bruschetta.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=8e5ba97423ddf124ebf3720e120582cc 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-bruschetta.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=61e6d0ef1c16bb35f93b09c00093c5c4 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-bruschetta.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=11471eb8ff355f70da480f653f0b4189 548w)
A departure from traditional tomato-topped appetizer served on French or Italian bread, Finn’s version features toasted flatbread triangles drizzled with a balsamic glaze and served with delicious herbed cream cheese.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-bar-people-2.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=e6a1e520671fd67be264cf7ddee2728b 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-bar-people-2.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=3dabb79a753a882c44c1f7a4393f5e63 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-bar-people-2.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=59f4bda0918a29a19d549934a67371f5 581w)
While we were eating our appetizers, the seats at the bar filled up, and I overheard a man say that Finn’s was his favorite place in town to get drinks. I can understand why. Not only does it offer a relaxing place to enjoy cocktails, you can do so for half price during Happy Hour, which runs Monday through Thursday, 4 pm to 7 pm, and includes beer, house wine, well drinks, and appetizers.
Travis and I each ordered a glass of wine with dinner, and we joked about the circus-sized glasses that the wine was served in.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-chris-wine.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=28efc507e953bd9359031c9309da8131 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-chris-wine.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=715ce69523019759d68e156b0ffe6c98 450w)
However, we certainly didn’t mind the substantial amount of liquid those glasses could hold.
For his dinner entrée, Travis ordered the special of the day, which was a version Finn’s hand-cut tenderloin; it was truly fork tender.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-beef.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=43a662f522006a6bc02ae767c8e12ebe 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-beef.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=da2bf8ae2fc312ad05506afad7eed58f 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-beef.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=e5930fbbecb2bb2628b6aa855ecde0ee 600w)
I took our server’s advice and ordered Clark’s Chop, an apple-brined French pork chop topped with a sweet and smoky bourbon glaze, and served with mashed potatoes and bacon bourbon green beans.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-pork.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=3d7a6fefad21cd53185438bc69d89635 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-pork.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=2652ffa65625f48576cca7dd141e0789 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-pork.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=a1fc0b062c576fea6d5eeff4d534f331 600w)
I can’t remember when I’d last eaten a pork chop, as it isn’t typically a cut of meat that I prefer. But tasting Finn’s flavorful and tender (there’s that word again) chop has quite possibly converted me.
Finn’s also offers a variety of other menu options, including seafood dishes, salads (like caprese avocado – yum!), and soup (like house-made gumbo).
After that hearty meal, I needed to stand up and stretch (dining is such a challenging sport), so I got up and wandered around. I decided to check out the restrooms. You can tell a lot about a restaurant from its restrooms, and the ladies’ restroom at Finn’s is simply stunning.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-bathrooms.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=b18a7fa787d9125ec9bd52f8ec732542 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-bathrooms.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=1edceb88477f62f6737e94cbfbf290af 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-bathrooms.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=23c9e22c2eeba6cfa470f08735157eac 600w)
Its elegance is fitting, since it is utilized not only by diners at Finn’s, but also by guests who attend special events (like wedding receptions) at The Emerson.
I returned to the table to discover a piece of chocolate cake waiting for me, and groaned.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-chocolate-cake.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=240&q=80&w=320&s=e0a584ac4640a60f1626215ec9a44457 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-chocolate-cake.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=405&q=80&w=540&s=7adbf67ab1249ce722399b9e68602ed2 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-chocolate-cake.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=576&q=80&w=768&s=053221c3c3b5b12e746837fe7efd13c2 600w)
“I can’t take another bite,” I said, as I picked up my fork and took yet another bite. I mean, I had to at least try a bite of that scrumptiousness, right?
Just then, the restaurant owner Chef Mickel Clark, came to our table to see how we were enjoying our meal. It was nice to see him engaging with, and getting feedback from, his customers. He told us about some exciting things that he and his partner Chef Red Morris (the barbeque master) had been working on, such as expanding the hours at Finn’s to seven days a week, and introducing Clark’s Cuisine on the Scene, a traveling food truck that features a limited menu.
How do they do all of that plus operate Clark’s Cuisine, the catering business for The Emerson (as well as for off-site events)? These men have found many creative ways to showcase their culinary talent, and the Joplin community is lucky to benefit from their efforts.
A Few Things To Note
Featuring a combination of steakhouse items, comfort food, and Southern flair, Finn’s offers a unique, elevated dining experience in Joplin. Here are some things to know before you go:
Finn’s is located at 2707 E. 32nd Street. It sits back from the street, so you may drive past it the first time, but definitely turn back! It’s so worth the trip.
Finn’s is open daily; dinner only on Saturday, brunch only on Sunday, and both lunch and dinner served the rest of the week. Click here for reservations.
Finn’s offers outdoor dining! Enjoy your food on the patio in nice weather.
Follow Finn’s on Facebook for information on special events and live music (like Saxophone Saturday).
For information on booking The Emerson or for off-site catering, click here.
![](https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-dog.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=26ae422d4550c486d9af5b9f8c0fba5e 320w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-dog.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=eb00188a0fb8a2fa66fd46612dcfd067 540w, https://visit-joplin.imgix.net/images/finns-dog.png?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=bf17da285ceed90773d2c0bd45a08314 574w)
To read more about my adventures in the area, visit JoplinMOLife.com.