Springfield’s culinary delights await you with the city’s diverse flavors that cater to every palate. If you are drawn to charming local eateries or prefer upscale dining establishments, Springfield, MO’s culinary landscape promises some of the best dining experiences in the region!

To help you navigate the city’s vibrant and interesting food scene, here’s the compilation of must-try restaurants in South Springfield, MO, for unique and unforgettable gastronomic adventures!

1. Farm-to-Table Delights at Metropolitan Grill

Metropolitan Grill in South Springfield is a must-try dining experience for those seeking a modern twist on American cuisine.

Known for its lively urban atmosphere, this New American restaurant and bar offers an innovative menu featuring everything from creative cocktails to expertly prepared pasta and steaks.

Metropolitan Grill works closely with local growers and global markets to source the finest ingredients.

Over the years, they have crafted 52 unique menus, constantly introducing fresh and exciting options to keep guests returning.

Metropolitan Grill also offers outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying your meal in a relaxed setting. For those looking to host special events, the restaurant provides private banquet rooms that can be tailored to your needs.

It is also a perfect spot for parents with students because it is near South Springfield schools!

Must-Try:

Flash-Fried Spinach – This delicacy is a light and crispy dish full of flavor. The spinach leaves are fried quickly, making them crunchy but not heavy.
Thompson Tenderloin – A 7-oz beef tenderloin grilled with sea salt and black pepper is served with a tasty Malbec Demi sauce and creamy smoked Gouda mashed potatoes.
Crab Cake – Juicy grilled beef tenderloin topped with a delicious crab cake covered in creamy Béarnaise sauce. The dish has a spicy garlic flavor that adds a little heat.

Reviews:

“I recently dined at Metropolitan Grill in Springfield, MO, and had an exceptional experience. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was relaxing and inviting, making it the perfect spot for an enjoyable evening.
The bread was simply amazing—fresh, warm, and the perfect start to our meal. Our salmon was cooked to perfection, maintaining a delicate balance of flavor and texture. The wine we chose was super deliciously sweet, complementing our meal beautifully.
Our server was very professional and provided excellent service throughout our visit. They were attentive and knowledgeable, enhancing our dining experience.
Overall, Metropolitan Grill exceeded our expectations, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great dining experience in Springfield. It’s also an excellent choice for a date night, offering a romantic and comfortable ambiance that’s sure to impress. ”
– ColoradoCondor

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2. Authentic Italian Flavors at Nicola's Ristorante

Nicola’s Ristorante is a must-try restaurant in South Springfield, MO, for those craving authentic Italian cuisine. Known for its inviting atmosphere, this bar and eatery offers family-style meals, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

This kid-friendly restaurant welcomes families, ensuring that even the youngest guests are catered to. Prime seating is available on the charming patio, where each guest can enjoy their meals in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Nicola’s Ristorante has earned a reputation for delivering top-quality, highly-rated Italian dishes. Highlights include freshly brewed coffee and delectable desserts, which provide the perfect ending to a memorable meal.

Nicola’s Ristorante offers an impressive selection of beverages, including beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and wine to complement the food.

Must-Try:

Chicken Parmesan – Chicken Parmesan is a classic dish made with tender chicken breasts. The chicken is pounded flat, covered in breadcrumbs, and fried until golden.
Pork Shank – The Pork Shank is made tender in a rich port wine sauce. It comes with fresh spinach that has been lightly cooked, tasty mushrooms, and potatoes.
Seafood Pasta – Nicola’s Ristorante’s seafood pasta is made with linguine noodles, shrimp, scallops, calamari, and mussels, creating a dish that is sure to impress with its fresh and flavorful taste.

Reviews:

“ Not an expansive menu, but what they do have on there they do very well. Nicola’s Ristorante in Springfield, Missouri, stole my heart with its delightful blend of culinary flair and warm ambiance!
The menu: Nicola’s is a symphony of Italian flavors, from melt-in-your-mouth pastas like the Penne Alla Vodka to heartier delights like the duck and pork shank. Every dish is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the portions are generous enough to share (or not, I won’t judge!).
The service: The staff at Nicola’s is as warm and inviting as the atmosphere itself. They’re attentive without being intrusive, and their passion for the food shines through in every recommendation. I felt like a valued guest, not just a customer.
The atmosphere: Nicola’s has a certain je ne sais quoi that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a charming trattoria in Tuscany. The soft lighting, the comfy booths, and the gentle hum of conversation create a space that’s perfect for a romantic evening or a lively gathering with friends. ✨
Nicola’s Ristorante has earned a top spot on my list of Springfield favorites. It’s where good food and company come together to create an unforgettable dining experience.
P.S. Don’t forget to save room for the homemade tiramisu – it’s pure heaven! ”
– Will E

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3. Savoring B.B.Q. Bliss at City Butcher and Barbecue

Located near the sprawling Lake Springfield Park, City Butcher and Barbecue is another must-try restaurant in South Springfield MO, for barbecue lovers. This laid-back spot combines a chill atmosphere with an industrial vibe, making it an inviting place to enjoy Texas-style smoked meats.

What started as a beloved local farmer’s market stand quickly became a full-fledged restaurant, gaining a strong following. Since opening in 2014, City Butcher has consistently served some of the area’s mouthwatering sandwiches, flavorful cuts of meat, and classic barbecue sides.

Their philosophy centers around selecting premium cuts of meat, seasoning them with just salt and pepper, and letting the smoking process do the rest.

By keeping the menu straightforward, City Butcher ensures that every bite showcases the authentic flavors of expertly smoked barbecue.

Must-Try:

Burnt Ends – Small pieces of beef that are crunchy on the outside but soft and juicy on the inside.
Pork Belly – Their pork belly dish features thick-cut smoked bacon that is tender and flavorful. The meat melts in your mouth and is lightly seasoned, letting the natural taste stand out.
Smoked Turkey – Made of smoked turkey breast, it is firm, juicy, and flavorful. The meat is moist and delicious.

Reviews:

“I was looking to try a new BBQ restaurant as I usually go to The Whole Hog & Gettin Basted. After doing some recon and looking at many reviews I decided to try City Butcher & Barbecue. Well, I’m very happy that I did!
I ordered the last of their burnt ends which were peppered liberally and mouthwatering delicious. I also ordered the baked beans and those were nice and smoky with lots of scrumptious pieces of brisket. I had some of their jalapeño corn and that was flavorful as can be.
The service was good, the food was great and the decor/ ambiance was fitting and modern. I give my ratings on those three components, giving the most weight of the rating to the food followed by service and lastly the ambiance/decor. ”
– Sterling H

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4. A Taste of the Mediterranean at Greek Belly

Greek Belly is a must-visit restaurant in South Springfield. Its cozy and inviting atmosphere transports diners straight to the heart of Greece. This charming eatery specializes in classic Greek dishes, from flavorful pita wraps to hearty gyro platters, all prepared with authentic recipes and fresh ingredients.

The restaurant’s snug setting adds to its charm, making it a perfect spot for a casual yet memorable meal. In addition to its delicious food, Greek Belly offers a variety of service options.

It serves happy hour food, thoughtfully crafted dishes for vegans, and Wi-Fi for guests looking to stay connected while enjoying their meal.

Must-Try:

Baklava – This sweet dessert is made with thin, rolled, baked dough. Inside, there are almonds, walnuts, and pistachios. After baking, it is covered with a special syrup made of honey, cinnamon, and citrus.
Falafel Pita – Falafel Pita is a tasty wrap with fried chickpea balls (falafel), fresh tomato, cucumber, and a creamy Tzatziki sauce, all inside soft pita bread.
Atlantis Pita – The Atlantis Pita is a special dish filled with tasty ingredients. It has slow-roasted pork gyro, fresh falafel, and spicy Tirokafteri dip.

Reviews:

“Greek Belly in Springfield, Missouri is a hidden treasure! Stepping inside feels like being whisked away to Greece with its captivating atmosphere. The food? Absolutely fantastic! Every dish bursts with authentic flavors, from the juicy gyros to the heavenly baklava.
The service is top-notch, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a perfect dining experience. I highly recommend Greek Belly to anyone in the area. Don’t miss out on this culinary delight—I’m already planning my next visit and spreading the word to all my friends!”
– Grant Lanphier

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5. Asian Fusion Excellence at Kai After Dark

Are you looking for Japanese restaurants in Springfield MO? Kai After Dark of Springfield got your back! Kai After Dark offers an exceptional dining experience that blends Asian fusion cuisine with its chic atmosphere.

Known for its inventive sushi rolls and creative cocktails, Kai After Dark creates a memorable setting with its bi-level venue and mood lighting that adds to the upscale yet welcoming ambiance.

The decor features sleek modern design elements, providing a stylish yet comfortable environment where guests can unwind and enjoy their meal.

Must-Try:

Lobster Spring Roll – Made with lobster and fresh vegetables wrapped in crispy, crunchy wonton skins. It comes with a sweet, tangy balsamic teriyaki sauce and spicy sweet chili sauce. It is served with a mix of fresh, organic greens.
Tonkatsu Ramen – Tonkatsu ramen is a flavorful noodle soup with a rich, creamy white broth made from pork bones. The soup is topped with a soft-boiled egg, slices of Chashu (a type of braised pork), and fresh green onions.
Chirashi – Chirashi is a traditional Japanese dish served with Miso Soup. It features a mix of sushi-grade fish placed on top of sushi rice.

Reviews:

“Kai after Dark was incredible. They have some pretty impressive food options and culinary expertise. The plating of the food was also something someone has obviously made sure to pay attention over. There are a few things on the menu that they put more effort into and make in-house, so I went ahead and got everything that the menu stated as made in house , or made from scratch… I was not disappointed from this. Wish their wine list reflected the wines they have sitting on the shelf near the bar, but no big deal. Their drinks are also very well balanced and have interesting ingredients that I didn’t think would work together.”
– Pascual Lopez

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6. Family-Friendly Dining At Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes

Black Sheep Burgers & Shake is renowned for its trendy atmosphere and delectable menu. This vibrant eatery, with its distinctive brick-walled decor, specializes in gourmet burgers, inventive side dishes, and indulgent adult shakes.

Not only does Black Sheep excel in crafting exceptional burgers and fries, but it has also earned accolades as the best in Missouri. The restaurant’s reputation for great cocktails adds to its appeal, and it’s a perfect spot for watching sports.

Their Happy Hour is a highlight, running all day from Sunday through Thursday, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy delicious food and drinks at a great value.

Must-Try:

Don’t Go Bacon My Heart – This dish has a juicy 4-ounce beef patty topped with applewood smoked bacon. It also includes sharp black diamond cheddar cheese, fresh butter lettuce, tomato slices, house-made pickles, and onion.
Born in the U.S.A Burger – This burger features two 4-ounce beef patties cooked to perfection. It includes American cheese, crispy chopped smoked bacon and sweet peppadews.
Truffle n’ Parmesan Fries – Crispy fries mixed with parsley, garlic, and truffle oil. They are topped with parmesan cheese and served with smoky garlic mayo on the side.

Reviews:

“Always a must stop when coming to the area. The place is super busy if you are not here when it opens. We put our server to the test when 18 of us hungry guys showed up and she did great! Their portions of fries are super big, two people can share. If you are getting their delish burgers, make sure you have plenty of napkins. The place has enough tables but it gets overcrowded with small space to walk through at certain spots. Bring a flashlight as the ramp to their restrooms is kinda dark in comparison with the rest of the dining area”
– Nasko Lazarov

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7. A Fine Dining Experience at Flame Steakhouse

Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar stands out as a premier dining destination in Springfield. It is known for its elegant atmosphere and exceptional culinary offerings.

This upscale establishment features a stylish bi-level layout, creating a sophisticated setting for both dining and socializing.

At Flame, guests can try various expertly prepared steak cuts, including in-house dry-aged options, alongside a selection of fresh seafood and delectable sides. The restaurant’s extensive wine list complements the menu, offering a range of choices to enhance your meal.

The ambiance at Flame is refined, with a beautiful private room available for special events and a Red Room lounge that provides a perfect spot for enjoying cocktails or a leisurely dinner.

Must-Try:

Fillet Medallion – This dish is made of two 3-ounce tender and juicy fillet medallions. These medallions are aged for 28 days to enhance their flavor.
Dry-Aged Ribeye – Their ribeye steak is aged for 25 days in wet conditions and then for 21 days in dry conditions. It is very tender and juicy, with a strong, rich taste that melts in your mouth.
Seafood Platter – This dish is a feast for seafood lovers! It includes a dozen East Coast oysters, known for their fresh and salty flavor.

Reviews:

“First time here, we had a wonderful experience. Service was excellent, and the food was delicious. I ordered the T-bone steak cooked perfectly, and the side was the Lyonnaise potato (Highly Recommend). I ordered the Peachy Keen for my cocktail, which was very good. It reminded me of a peach ring candy with a little tang. Oh and don’t forget the bread, by far the best bread I’ve had at any restaurant. It was light, airy reminded me of a croissant.”
– April S

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8. Exploring Local Ingredients at The Order

The Order is a popular dining spot in South Springfield, situated within the Hotel Vandivort. This rustic-industrial restaurant stands out for its inviting atmosphere and modern approach to local American cuisine. At The Order, guests are treated to a menu celebrating the freshest flavors from the Ozarks.

Each plate is crafted using locally sourced ingredients, and the bar serves a range of creative craft cocktails.

For families, The Order features a kids’ menu, ensuring that younger diners can also enjoy their meals. Additionally, the restaurant provides various vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Must-Try:

Wagyu Smash Burger – The Wagyu Smash Burger is made of juicy Wagyu beef, sweet caramelized onions, and rich smoked tomato jam. Fresh butter lettuce and creamy white cheddar cheese add extra flavor.
Heirloom Tomato – This dish features fresh tomatoes with a tangy vinaigrette and oregano oil. It is served with arugula, creamy whipped feta, and caperberries.
Providence Farm Duck Breast – This tender duck breast with a smooth kohlrabi puree, fresh zucchini, and a flavorful charred scallion sauce is a must when visiting The Ordered!

Reviews:

“This restaurant has some deliciousness hidden behind its small seating availability. Sitting down, I was not sure what all we would be getting ourselves into with eating in the hotel restaurant, but my goodness, they pump out some serious food. The selection they have for spirits are out of this world and are fairly priced. Some of their wine has some large overhead for pricing, but that is fine and understandable. The food and cocktails are worth the visit, and I suggest you try this place out if in town. They are hyper-local, which is always great to find a place that supports their community.”
– Pascual Lopez

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9. Casual Comfort at Jimm's Steakhouse & Pub

Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub offers a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. This refined yet relaxed venue is renowned for its classic steakhouse dishes, complemented by live piano music on weekends, which creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Guests can enjoy a delightful happy hour, making it an excellent spot for casual gatherings and special occasions. The restaurant boasts a private dining room, ideal for intimate events or business meetings.

In addition to its renowned steakhouse fare, Jimm’s serves a variety of great cocktails and offers a selection of vegetarian dishes, catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences.

Recognized as one of 417 Magazine’s finest restaurants, Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub promises a memorable dining experience that combines excellent food, a welcoming ambiance, and outstanding service.

Must-Try:

Lobster Tails – Enjoy the delicious Lobster Tails, each weighing 7oz. This dish is cooked with rich butter and baked to perfection. It is served with fresh asparagus on the side.
Smothered Chicken – It features juicy grilled chicken topped with sautéed mushrooms, melted Colby cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s served on a bed of creamy redskin mashed potatoes with a side of fresh green beans.
Pork Tenderloin – Grilled to perfection and seasoned just right, you will feel above the clouds with its flavorful taste! The pork tenderloin is served with creamy redskin mashed potatoes and fresh green beans.

Reviews:

“I don’t give many 5-star ratings but I can’t think of anything I would do differently than Jimm’s does.
They easily have the best steak in town. Yes, it’s a bit expensive, but you get a meal 10 times better for a few dollars more than at the competitors. The salad bar is top-notch, the staff is professional and knowledgeable, and the place is always clean. We had the prime rib, the sirloin and, I had the KC strip w/ the burgundy mushrooms and grilled onions. The KC Strip is the best I’ve ever had! They still take reservations (you will probably need one for dinner) Jimm’s is a special treat, I highly recommend it and hope to go again soon.”
– Jason Sargent

Restaurant Information:

10. Hidden Gem: Avanzare Italian Dining

Avanzare Italian Dining is an intimate and refined dining restaurant in Springfield. Wherever you are in South Springfield, you may want to visit Avanzare Italian Dining.

It is located near parks, schools, malls, and Springfield’s renowned country club, Twin Oaks Country Club.

This chef-owned establishment, led by five-star chef Tony Garcia, specializes in Northern Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. It features a carefully curated selection of sophisticated Italian dishes, each prepared creatively.

The restaurant boasts a modest yet thoughtfully chosen wine list that complements its culinary offerings.

Must-Try:

Filetto Ai Porcini – This delicious Filet Mignon is cooked to perfection and crusted with rich gorgonzola cheese. It’s topped with savory porcini and mixed mushrooms, drizzled with a garlic white wine butter sauce.
Linguini alla Avanzare – A delicious pasta dish with big, juicy shrimp and scallops mixed with tasty mushrooms.
Calamari Fritti – A lightly breaded and quickly fried calamari to a perfect crisp. Served with a zesty, spicy tomato sauce, this fresh and non-oily appetizer is not only delicious but also a delightful way to start your meal at Avanzare Italian Dining.

Reviews:

“This place was amazing! The bruschetta was so tasty that even my Dad ate it, and he is extremely picky about tomatoes. The server was very attentive but gave time between appetizer and dinner so we didn’t have it all come at the same time (that is a pet peeve of mine.) He was very knowledgeable about the menu. He even brought out a taste of the goat cheese for my Mom to try as she was deciding which dish she wanted. The food came out hot and perfect. All of the ingredients were so fresh, including the pasta. The lobster was spot on and not rubbery.
The desserts were delicious! The whole atmosphere and experience made for a wonderful birthday celebration! My husband and parents all enjoyed their meals and felt like the flavors of their dishes were worth the cost. We cannot wait to go again and will definitely budget to go here more often in the future. The atmosphere is clean, elegant, and the staff seem to both enjoy their job and take pride in it.
Highly recommend!!”
– Megan Petersen

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Final Thoughts

South Springfield’s dining scene truly offers a rich and diverse range of culinary experiences- from American dishes, authentic Italian fare, or something new to try, like Mediterranean and Asian fusion.

From the upscale charm of Metropolitan Grill and the homey feel of Nicola’s Ristorante to the smoky flavors at City Butcher and the vibrant atmosphere at Kai After Dark, your dining adventure in South Springfield will surely be one for the books.

Planning to visit South Springfield and would like to learn which restaurants to go to? Don’t hesitate to connect with our team by calling 417-241-6565 or sending a message via office@gatewaymo.com. We will gladly guide you in planning your dining adventure at South Springfield, MO!

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