JQ’s on High serves up good eats with a side of classic cars and rock ‘n’ roll.

Located in a small brick storefront on High Street, JQ’s on High offers an experience that marries the nostalgia of classic music and classic cars with a modern twist on sandwiches, burgers, and tacos. This tiny gem has quickly become a must-visit destination.

JQ’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. With its unique blend of classic car culture, classic music memorabilia, and exceptional food, this establishment has carved out a niche for itself in the Jefferson City dining scene. The interior features a music tour ambiance, including memorabilia of BB King, KISS, and Jerry Garcia, alongside a classic Chevy truck tailgate table, vintage license plates, hubcaps, and traffic signs. Quenten Rice, the Q in JQ’s, is often by the front door to give customers a warm welcome. Whether a Jefferson City local or just passing through, JQ’s promises a dining experience that is as memorable as it is delicious.

One standout dish is the Sweet Caroline sandwich, featuring a mustard-based barbeque sauce that brings a touch of the Carolinas to Jefferson City. Paired with house-made pickles, this sandwich is a delightful combination of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.

But sandwiches aren’t the only signature dishes at JQ’s. Owners Quenten Rice and John Johnson know how to make great tacos, from fish tacos to grilled shrimp tacos to smoked pork belly tacos. Served on a bed of fresh greens and wrapped in flour tortillas (with a gluten-free option available), these tacos are accompanied by house-made pico de gallo and tortilla chips. The Wango Tango Phish Tacos with grilled Icelandic Cod comes with a house-made tartar sauce. For those who prefer something a little more tropical, the grilled shrimp taco, drizzled with Baja sauce and seasoned to perfection, is a great choice.

Vegetarians will also be thrilled to discover that most items can be made vegetarian and/or gluten free. It’s a testament to JQ’s commitment to catering to all palates without compromising on flavor. A favorite from the vegetarian menu is the vegetarian Philly, made with portobello mushrooms, caramelized onions, fresh sautéed peppers, and melted Swiss American cheese.

To really elevate these dishes, try some of JQ’s sauces. The Triple J sauce, a smoky mayonnaise, perfectly complements their Fat Boys Burger and savory pork. For those who like sweet heat, the D.A.T. sauce provides a tantalizing balance of sweet and spicy notes. Additionally, the Baja Sauce, with crushed red pepper and subtle tang, adds a layer of texture and mild heat, enhanced by red onion.

For sides, the cucumber salad, with its sweet and tangy dressing made with onions, bell peppers, and vinegar, is super refreshing. John’s broccoli salad, a customer favorite, is always something to watch for when it comes around.

When craving something sweet, the brownie and brookie (a brownie cookie), which are both gluten-free, nut-free, and dairy-free, are the perfect sweet ending.

What many customers may not know about is JQ’s secret menu. There are several items that are on this menu; if you know, you know. One item is The Motown Philly Nachos, essentially the Pulled Pork Philly but in the form of nachos. Substitute their tortilla chips for freshly fried house potato chips or even fries as a base for the nachos.

Whether customers are drawn in by their cool and classic atmosphere, the inventive menu, or even their outdoor seating during warmer months, JQ’s on High delivers an experience that hits all the right notes.

JQ’s on High
911 E. High St., JCMO
Tuesday & Wednesday: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Thursday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.