Greetings, devoted food devotees! I’m incredibly excited to whisk you away on another mouth-watering journey. Today, we’ll be exploring the culinary delights of the “Queen City of the Ozarks,” Springfield, Missouri. A city that effortlessly interweaves the homespun charm of the Midwest with a veritable smorgasbord of food experiences that tantalize the palate.
Springfield is more than just a pit-stop on Route 66. It has blossomed into a vivacious, culinary spectacle that’ll make your taste buds do a delightful dance. From the down-home cuisine that the Midwest is renowned for to international flavors that whisk your senses to far-off places, this city has a dish for every craving. Prepare to embark on a taste-tour you won’t soon forget.
As known for its rich history, and the sizzling grill of the iconic Cashew Chicken invention inside its borders, Springfield’s food scene offers a fascinating blend of old and new. This Queen City not only brims with traditional flavours but also has a knack for bringing innovative dishes to the table. The medley of vibrant food trucks, quaint coffee shops, hearty barbeque joints, and elegant fine dining establishments is all set to impress you.
So, fasten your seatbelts, foodies! Join me in my gastronomical expedition through the food paradise that Springfield, Missouri, undoubtedly is. Get ready to wipe the drool from your chin as we dive fork-first into Springfield’s most exquisite eats!
Most Popular Restaurants in Springfield
Let’s start our food journey with a real gem, the Metropolitan Grill, located at 2931 E Battlefield St Springfield. Offering a wide variety of mouth-watering dishes, Metropolitan Grill has widely appealed to a crowd who appreciate a seriously good steak. Their Roasted Prime Ribeye or the Metropolitan Mixed Grill are must-try items on their menu. Their wine list is impressive, perfectly complementing your chosen dish. The decor is classy and cosy, making it an ideal space for a romantic dinner or an upscale business meeting.
Embark on a fascinating culinary journey at the Thai Peppers, situated at 1411 E Sunshine St, Springfield. This place offers the best of Thai cuisine in Missouri. The Pad Thai, Red Curry and Fresh Rolls are loved by patrons and are a real culinary revelation. The food is full of authentic flavours and the colorful presentation is always a delight. The homely atmosphere, coupled with the warm service, makes dining at Thai Peppers a very enjoyable experience.
If you’re a fan of authentic Mexican food, you’re in for a treat at El Tomatillo. Located at 3166 S Campbell Ave, Springfield, this place has quickly gained popularity for its mouth-watering tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, washed down with an amazing margarita. The quirky decor adds to the lively atmosphere and the staff always serve with a smile. Their menu is expansive, offering a wide selection of delectable Mexican dishes, all prepared using fresh, local ingredients.
The Dairy Maid Drive-In at 4319 S National Ave, Springfield, is a hit with locals and tourists alike for its nostalgic charm and legendary burgers. The menu is filled with American classics: burgers, fries, shakes, and more. Serving Springfield since 1952, this place will take you down memory lane with its retro ambience, and it’s a great place to have a casual meal or grab a quick bite to go.
If you are a pizza lover, then your hunt ends at The Great Pizza Company located at 2925 W Republic Rd, Springfield. Known for their crispy crust, gooey cheese, and abundant toppings, their pizzas are a treat for the palate. The laid-back setting of the place, combined with friendly service, creates a fun dining atmosphere. A variety of beer and wine options are available to complement your pizza.
Each of these restaurants brings something unique and delicious to the table. Whether you are craving steak, Thai food, Mexican, burgers, or pizza, these popular hangouts in Springfield, Missouri, have got you covered!
Most Unique Restaurants in Springfield
If you’re looking for culinary adventures, Springfield, Missouri is the place to be. With its mix of classic American diners, unique and exotic cuisines, and homegrown favorites, there are plenty of options for food enthusiasts seeking something out of the ordinary.
Let’s delve into some of the most unique dining establishments that this charming Midwest city has to offer.
Located at 2144 E Republic Rd, Springfield, MO 65804, Progress is a restaurant that’s all about presenting food in an unexpected way. Think dinner as a theatrical experience, with the kitchen as the stage. The restaurant follows a pop-up model where the menu changes every week, keeping diners on their toes with an unpredictable array of dishes. They also have cocktail servings that are as innovative as the food. A meal here is not just about satiating your hunger, but about exploring the very art of food.
Chef’s Table Tour at Touch Restaurant & Oyster Bar
For a dining experience that combines food with a touch of education and excitement, head to 1620 E Republic Rd, Springfield, MO 65804, and join a Chef’s Table Tour at Touch. It’s an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the restaurant’s operations, where you get to interact with the head chef, learn about the special dishes, and savor an exclusive menu. Get ready to immerse yourself in this culinary journey that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Located at 338 E Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803, That Lebanese Place is a hidden gem offering authentic Middle Eastern fare. From fattoush and falafel to hummus and kabobs, the homestyle dishes here are as unique as they are delicious. The cozy, welcoming ambiance adds to the restaurant’s charm and makes for a memorable dining experience.
If you’re in the mood for a tropical escape, head to 137 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806, and step into the Golden Girl Rum Club. Their menu boasts a fascinating variety of rums from around the world paired with inventive island-inspired dishes. The vibrant, colorful decor, complete with flamingo wallpaper and tropical plants, makes you feel like you’re dining in a beachside shack somewhere in the Caribbean.
These unique restaurants in Springfield, Missouri offer not just meals, but memorable experiences that are sure to satisfy your inner foodie. Whether you’re a local looking for new spots to explore or a visitor wanting to experience the city’s culinary scene, these restaurants are must-visit destinations.
Best Casual Restaurants in Springfield
First on our list is The Springfield Diner. Situated at 1730 E Republic Rd Ste U, Springfield, MO 65804, this little gem offers a cozy atmosphere with warm and welcoming staff. If you’re craving comfort food, this is the place to go. The Springfield Diner’s menu boasts classic breakfast dishes, hearty sandwiches, and savory soups. Their fluffy pancakes and mouthwatering omelettes are known to keep customers coming back for more.
Next, we have Bambu Modern Asian Restaurant. Located at 1338 E Battlefield St, Springfield, MO 65804, Bambu presents a modern take on traditional Asian cuisine. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes from sushi to stir fry and even offers options for the health-conscious with their light and nutritious steamed dishes. The vibrant colors and flavors matched with a chic ambiance make Bambu a must-visit.
Following that is White River Brewing Company. Nestled at 505 W Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803, this brewery is known not only for its excellent craft beers but also for its delicious pub grub. This place is perfect for gatherings with friends, where you can enjoy a relaxed evening filled with laughter, delicious food, and fantastic beer. Their BBQ wings and pork sliders are truly exceptional!
Another local favorite is Antonios Pizzeria. Located at 210 W Sunshine St, Springfield, MO 65807, this is no ordinary pizza place. Antonios Pizzeria creates an authentic Italian experience right in the heart of Springfield. Hand-tossed dough, fresh toppings, and a secret sauce recipe make their pizzas truly unique. Additionally, the menu also includes classic Italian pasta dishes and heavenly desserts.
Last but certainly not least is Early Bird Breakfast Pub. You can find this establishment at 1717 E Cherokee St, Springfield, MO 65804. As the name suggests, Early Bird Breakfast Pub specializes in breakfast and brunch dishes that will make you a morning person. Their menu consists of creative plays on classic breakfast dishes such as their infamous Crabby Patty – a dish you simply have to try.
Springfield, Missouri has an amazing variety of casual restaurants that are sure to satisfy all your cravings. Each place offers something unique and delicious, making them well worth a visit. Whether you want homestyle cooking, Asian fusion, Italian classics, pub fare, or innovative breakfast dishes, you’ll find it in Springfield!
Best Family Restaurants in Springfield
Let’s dive into the culinary offerings of Springfield, Missouri, and discover some of the best family-friendly restaurants to dine at.
First on our list is Farmer’s Gastropub. Located at 2620 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, this charming spot boasts a farm-to-table menu that’s varied and delicious in equal measures. The child-friendly menu includes kid favorites like mac n’ cheese and burgers, while adults can enjoy British classics like the Bangers and Mash, or a delightful Farmhouse Salad. Their Sunday roasts are a big draw too. It’s a perfect place to unwind with your family amidst a friendly setting and delightful food.
Next up, is Hemingway’s Blue Water Cafe at 1935 S Campbell Ave, Springfield. This one-of-a-kind dining experience transports families to a tropical and enchanting dining setting, replete with a massive aquarium at the center. Hemingway’s showcases a menu with a wide variety of seafood options, like the popular Hemingway’s Famous Coconut Shrimp. But don’t worry if you have picky little eaters, they have a specialized kids menu that includes traditional kid-friendly favorites like chicken strips or popcorn shrimp.
Then there’s Black Market Smokehouse at 603 S Kimbrough Ave, Springfield. If your family loves barbecue, this is the place to be! They take their smoking seriously, producing flavorful and tender meats that are sure to please any palate. Kids will love their pulled pork sandwich and adults can savor their signature burnt ends. The casual, laid-back atmosphere is just right for families looking for a hearty meal.
Located at 2446 N O’Reilly Ave, Springfield is Bambu Vietnamese Cuisine. This restaurant takes you on a food journey to Vietnam, offering traditional dishes that are bursting with flavor. They have a variety of child-friendly options like the classic Pho and the delicious Bambu Fried Rice. It’s a great opportunity to introduce your kids to different cultures’ cuisine while enjoying a wholesome family dinner.
If your family is in the mood for pizza, check out PaPPo’s Pizzeria at 221 E Walnut St, Springfield. Their hand-tossed, stone-baked pizzas are crafted with a love for quality and flavor. Kids will love creating their own pizza, and adults can indulge in gourmet options like the Greek pizza or Artisan BLT. It’s a cozy, happy place where everyone in the family gets exactly what they want.
Best Takeout Food in Springfield
If you are a food lover exploring Springfield, Missouri, you’ll be surprised by the culinary landscape of this city. It’s rich in both traditional American cuisine and exotic international dishes. Here are some of the top spots for takeout food that you should consider.
Let’s begin our culinary journey with City Butcher and Barbecue. Located at 3650 S Campbell Ave, Springfield, MO 65807, this restaurant has earned a reputation for serving some of the finest Texas-style barbecue. From their melt-in-your-mouth brisket to their savory pulled pork, you’re guaranteed a mouthwatering meal. The charm of this place lies in not just the impeccable food, but also the simplicity of ordering. You can easily get your sumptuous dinner packed and ready to devour at home.
Next, we venture east to Bambu Vietnamese Cuisine at 1338 E Battlefield St, Springfield, MO 65804. This family-owned restaurant presents a harmonious blend of traditional Vietnamese flavors, tweaked to suit the American palate. Their Pho and Vermicelli bowls are excellent choices for takeout. Bambu also offers online ordering, making it a convenient option for those busy weekdays when you’re craving a hearty meal.
Moving towards downtown Springfield, we find ourselves at That Lebanese Place, located at 338 E Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803. As the name suggests, this eatery offers an authentic taste of the Middle East. The Falafel wrap and Shawarma plates, coupled with their renowned garlic sauce, make for an irresistible takeout meal. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat-lover, That Lebanese Place caters to a wide range of palates.
Finally, who could forget dessert? For those with a sweet tooth, Hurts Donut is a must-visit. Situated at 320 Park Central E, Springfield, MO 65806, Hurts Donuts offers flavors and combinations you didn’t know you needed. From the classic glazed donut to their extravagant cereal-topped creations, every option is a delight. Plus, they’re open 24/7, making it perfect for late-night dessert runs.
Springfield, MO offers a wide palette of flavors, making its takeout scene truly dynamic. These are just a few of the diverse offerings in this vibrant city. Each restaurant brings a unique culinary perspective, promising a delectable adventure for food lovers.
What Foods is Springfield Known For?
When you’re talking about food in Springfield, Missouri, it’s impossible not to mention the iconic Cashew Chicken. Yes, you heard it right, Springfield has its own unique variation of this Chinese-American staple. But what sets it apart? Well, it all started at Leong’s Asian Diner, located at 1540 W. Republic Road where the proprietor, David Leong, created this local delicacy.
Springfield-style cashew chicken is unlike the classic Chinese dish you might be familiar with. Leong’s masterpiece is a delicious fusion of deep-fried chicken bites topped with a mouthwatering, thick brown sauce, cashews, and chopped green onions. The history of the dish goes back to the 1960s when Leong was trying to create a dish that would appeal to midwestern tastes. The result was an instant success and has since become a staple in Chinese restaurants across the city.
Another uniquely Springfield experience is the Grad School, located at 434 S Jefferson Ave. This local favorite has earned a reputation for serving the best “study” burgers in town. The burgers are juicy, generously sized, and come fully loaded with options for customization. Their “Full Ride” burger is a must-try, complete with chipotle aioli, jalapeno bacon, and cream cheese to complement the beef patty.
But Springfield’s food scene isn’t just all about indulgent, comfort food. The city is also home to some notable healthy food spots. Farmer’s Gastropub, at 2620 S. Glenstone Ave., is a fantastic locale for those who are looking for farm-to-table offerings. Their locally-sourced menu changes with the seasons, ensuring each dish is fresh, flavorful, and sustainable. The Gastropub’s lamb burger and fish and chips are local legends, but their vegetarian and vegan options like the falafel burger and the vegetable curry are also equally impressive.
For those with a sweet tooth, a trip to Askinosie Chocolate located at 514 E. Commercial St. is a must. Askinosie isn’t your average chocolate factory. They are known for their bean-to-bar chocolates, meaning they oversee every step from sourcing the beans to producing the bar. Their selection includes an array of dark chocolate bars, cocoa powder, and even chocolate hazelnut spread. But if you’re visiting, don’t miss their single-origin dark chocolate bars which are a pure celebration of the cocoa bean’s flavor profile.
So, whether you’re into unique local cuisines, hearty burgers, farm-to-table dishes, or artisan chocolates, Springfield, Missouri has something to surprise every palate. It’s a culinary journey that’s worth taking and one that will surely leave you craving for more.
Eating Your Way Around Springfield: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Day 1:Begin your culinary adventure in Springfield at Flame Steakhouse. They serve delicious, tender steaks in a sophisticated setting. Try their signature Filet Mignon or the Bone-in Ribeye, paired with a glass of your favorite wine from their extensive wine list. This upscale dining experience is located at 314 W Walnut St, Springfield, MO 65806.
Day 2:Stop by Tea Bar & Bites located at 621 S Pickwick Ave, Springfield, MO 65804 for a light and healthy breakfast. Enjoy their fresh pastries and refreshing tea varieties to start your day. Don’t miss out on their Local Farm Fresh Egg Sandwich.
For lunch, head over to Black Market Smokehouse located at 603 S Kimbrough Ave, Springfield, MO 65806. Their slow-smoked meats and homemade barbecue sauce will surely tickle your taste buds. The Pulled Pork Plate and BBQ Nachos are crowd favorites.
Day 3:The breakfast at Early Bird Breakfast Pub is something you wouldn’t want to miss. This quirky eatery at 1717 E Cherokee St, Springfield, MO 65804 serves creative dishes such as the Pecker Wrecker and Sunrise Burger.
For dinner, try some flavorful Middle Eastern food at That Lebanese Place. The ambiance transports you to Lebanon and the dishes like Shawarma and Falafel truly represent the flavors of the Middle East. Pay a visit to this place located at 338 E Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803.
Day 4:Experience Springfield’s fine Italian cuisine at Nicola’s Ristorante. Enjoy plates of fresh pasta, seafood, and more in their warm and welcoming atmosphere. You’ll find this authentic Italian restaurant at 3631 E Sunshine St, Springfield, MO 65809.
Day 5:On your last day in Springfield, visit Hemingway’s Blue Water Cafe for breakfast. Enjoy a wonderful buffet in a relaxed setting at 1935 S Campbell Ave, Springfield, MO 65807.
End your food journey at Cafe Cusco for dinner. Located at 234 E Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803, you can enjoy a unique Peruvian experience with dishes like Lomo Saltado and their freshly made ceviche.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are the top places to eat in Springfield, Missouri?
A1: Springfield is a paradise for food lovers and has a wide range of dining options. For some good old fashioned comfort food, try the Black Sheep Restaurant. Nicola’s Ristorante is an excellent choice for Italian cuisine. For sushi lovers, Haruno Sushi Bar & Grill is a must-visit, while Bambinos Café on Delmar is praised for its homestyle Italian pasta dishes. For gourmet burgers, check out Grad School, and for fantastic farm-to-table options, try Farmer’s Gastropub.
Q2: Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Springfield, Missouri?
A2: Yes, Springfield offers many vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants. Grad School and Bambinos Café on Delmar offer tasty vegan and vegetarian options. The Grotto is another great option with a diverse range of vegan burgers. The Wheelhouse has an extensive menu of vegan street food. For something a little more relaxed, try Mama Jean’s Natural Foods Market & Deli, which serves up mouthwatering vegan sandwiches and salads.
Q3: Which restaurants in Springfield offer international cuisine?
A3: Springfield is home to a diverse range of international cuisine. Nicola’s Ristorante is known for its authentic Italian cuisine, while Haruno Sushi Bar & Grill offers an exceptional Japanese dining experience. For those with a taste for Middle Eastern food, That Lebanese Place is a must-visit. If you’re craving Mexican, try Tortilleria Perches. For a taste of Greece in the heart of Missouri, visit Greek Belly.
Q4: Are there family-friendly restaurants in Springfield?
A4: Yes, there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants in Springfield. The Incredible Pizza Company is a popular choice with its buffet-style dining and indoor games. Springfield Brewing Company is another great option with a varied menu that caters to all tastes. Bair’s All-American Sports Grill is a family-friendly sports bar with an inviting environment. For a fun and interactive dining experience, The Magic House offers a “Pancakes at Home” kit that kids can cook.
Q5: What about fine dining options in Springfield, Missouri?
A5: Springfield has several fine dining options as well. Touch Restaurant & Oyster House and Flame Steakhouse are known for their exquisite steak and seafood options. Metropolitan Grill offers a unique blend of good food, specialty cocktails, and great ambiance.
Q6: Are there unique dining experiences in Springfield?
A6: Absolutely! The Order located inside Hotel Vandivort offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience. For a blend of music and dining, the Rock and Brews restaurant is a perfect choice. If you enjoy craft beer with your food, Springfield Brewing Company offers an array of locally brewed beers.
Q7: I’m craving for some desserts. Any recommendations?
A7: For dessert lovers, The Urban Cup offers a wide assortment of cupcakes. Andy’s Frozen Custard is another must-try for its delicious range of custard-based desserts. For something truly unique, visit Elle’s Patisserie for lavender and other specialty flavored macarons.
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