Springfield’s culinary delights await at every corner for you! The city showcases diverse flavors that cater to every palate. From charming local Springfield restaurants to upscale dining establishments, the city’s culinary landscape will surely provide the best dining in Springfield, MO.
Let’s have a tour of some of the must-visit restaurants in Springfield, MO!
Springfield’s Culinary Delights
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Flavorful BBQ Joints
Many of the best restaurants in Springfield, MO, are a must-try, especially if their menus boast flavorful and spicy BBQs that will leave you craving for more! Here are some of the restaurants you should check out for flavorful BBQ Joints
A trendy BBQ joint in Springfield that exudes an urban atmosphere with industrial vibes and serves authentic Texas-style meats, sandwiches, and traditional sides.
The establishment goes out of its way to find high-quality meats to ensure the utmost satisfaction of its customers. But what they’re all about is perfecting the art of smoking these premium cuts until they reach absolute perfection.
Must-Try:
- Pork Belly – A mouth-watering and juicy pork belly with a great balance of meat to fat that’s minimally seasoned and lets the meat speak for itself. It comes with mustard mixed with spicy BBQ sauce.
- Burnt Ends – A sought-after menu where bites are crunchy on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside that melts in your mouth. It is meticulously seasoned with the perfect blend of salt, pepper, and smoke.
Reviews:
“I just happened to see this place while visiting the area for work. I got the brisket and pork belly sandwich, a hot link, and a jalapeño cheddar sausage. I’m a bit snobbish about my BBQ, and I have to say this place knocked it out of the park. The bark on the brisket was crusty, thick, and just perfect in every way. All three sauces were excellent too. Friendly guy behind the counter prepping the food as well. Highly recommend! I will be back to try the burnt ends and ribs if I’m ever back in the area.” – Daniel P
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 3650 S. Campbell Springfield, MO 65807
- Contact Information: (417) 720-1113
- Open Hours: 11 am - 7 pm
- Price Range: $2 - $32
- Click here to check out their menu!
Whole Hog Cafe is an award-winning BBQ restaurant in Springfield that offers classic barbeque dishes in a relaxing atmosphere. They offer various menus, from savory BBQs, salads, sandwiches, and side dishes to fried catfish and wings.
The establishment has won top honors in the 2000, 2002, and 2008 Memphis-in-May World Barbecue Championships.
Must-Try:
- Pulled Pork– A flavorful chunk of shredded pork with six choices of sauces to allow you to combine according to your liking. The meats are meticulously dry-rubbed with a blend of secret spices and smoked for 15 hours over pecan wood, creating a tender and moist piece with the rich essence of the smoking process.
- Potato Salad – A side dish where each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures that’s downright delectable. It uses a sour cream base to blend tanginess and richness. It is praised for its uniqueness, creamy consistency, and the delightful twist that the sour cream adds to the classic potato salad experience.
Reviews:
“This barbecue is famous for a reason. They have a variety of barbecue sauces on each table, six to be exact, that include sweet, mild molasses, traditional tomato, spicy traditional tomato, traditional southern vinegar, sweet, heavy molasses, and rich mustard and vinegar. It’s great to try them all.
Also, the potato salad is probably the best potato salad I have ever had! It has a very unique and creamy texture that I would highly recommend to anyone dining here if potato salad is your thing. Seriously try it! We will definitely come back as we drive through again in the future.” – Austyn Bailiff
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 224 W. Sunshine St. (In Wedgewood Shopping Center) Springfield, MO 65807 and 2731 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, MO 65803
- Contact Information: (417) 720-1113
- Price Range: $3 - $28
- Click here to check out their menu!
A top-notch BBQ restaurant in Springfield is famous for hanging out with families or friends. This barbeque joint serves succulent, juicy, smoked meats that are perfectly spiced!
Must-Try:
- Fresh Smoked Salmon – A delectable dish that uses authentic wood-fired BBQ straight from their hickory and oak-fired pit, giving that rich, smoky flavor that ignites taste buds and makes you come for more. Diners love the generous portion and perfect blend of sweet and smoky taste. It is served with the establishment’s signature homestyle sides.
- Smoked Cordon Bleu – A flavor-packed menu where smoked chicken breast, savory pit ham, crispy smoked bacon, and gooey Provolone cheese harmonize perfectly. This dish is served with freshly cooked portions of golden Fries, making it a feast for your taste buds. For an extra kick, it offers an optional horseradish sauce.
Reviews:
“Stopped in after visiting Bass Pro Shops as it is across the street from the main entrance. The look from the outside screams good barbecue with piles of wood stacked high and a smoker with smoke flying through the air. While in line a little girl told her mom, “Mom, this place smells good!” The prices are very reasonable I ordered a jumbo brisket sandwich with 2 sides for just over $10. I was disappointed however that they were out of cheesy corn and no longer sell fried pickles. The guy recommended the mac and cheese, it was ok the sweet potato fries were tasty. The brisket sandwich was piled high and delicious. Excellent place to stop and eat.” – Kaleb Huffman
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 2002 South Campbell Ave, Springfield, MO 65807, USA
- Contact Information: (417) 886-9979
- Price Range: $1 - $30
- Click here to check out their menu!
Gourmet Dining
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Are you looking for a feast in an exquisite and refined setting? Several restaurants in Springfield, MO offer gourmet dining with fine cuisines and impressive pairing of wines.
One of the best Italian restaurants in Springfield. With a long tradition of crafting authentic Italian cuisines and featuring the highest-quality local ingredients, Gilardi’s has become a mainstay of the Springfield dining scene for more than 15 years.
It offers lavish and delectable dishes and entrees. Its burgundy walls and dark-toned woodwork ooze a classic vibe. This restaurant is also one of the few that offers a farm-to-table dining experience.
Must-Try:
- Seafood Pasta – A combination of stewed shrimp, scallops, crab, calamari, Pollock, and Clams bathed in a delightful white wine, lemon, and butter sauce. This seafood is served on a bed of linguini, crowned with four succulent U10 prawns. Furthermore, there’s nothing worse than leaving a restaurant still hungry, but worry not—you won’t experience that here with the dish’s exceptional proportion size.
- Tiramisu – A timeless menu that brings a sweet conclusion to a fantastic meal. It has layers of delicate ladyfingers dipped in rich espresso, harmoniously nestled between clouds of whipped Mascarpone cheese.
Reviews:
“What can I even begin to say about this establishment? My 1st word would probably be outstanding. Every single detail about our whole time there was just perfect. If you ever want to experience a one of a kind dinner, then this is the place of your dreams . Hats off to the chef for personally checking on us & our meal. Stunning plating, mouth-watering food & a desert that was over the top lovely. Will 100% be back every time I go back home to visit.” – Ivory Lybrand
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 820 E Walnut St, Springfield, MO 65806
- Contact Information: 417-862-4400
- Price Range: $20 - $100
- Click here to check out their menu!
It is the only ice bar in Springfield that offers an array of menus from seafood and steaks to entrees, appetizers, salads, and sandwiches. They feature an open kitchen where you can watch the flames from grilling and see the chefs preparing the dishes while enjoying your chilled drink on a bed of ice.
Must-Try:
- Boneless Chicken Wings – Tender and boneless chicken wings that are perfectly seasoned and coated in your choice of flavorful sauces. Whether you want a mild kick, a fiery hot sensation of Caribbean jerk, or a sweet and smoky allure of BBQ, teriyaki, or bourbon glaze, this dish has your cravings covered. It is served with creamy ranch dressing, offering a satisfying combination of textures and tastes.
- Pad Thai – A chicken, beef, or shrimp with rice noodles, crisp snow peas, vibrant carrots, and the perfect blend of red bell peppers and green onions. It is generously coated in a zesty fusion of spicy peanut and tamarind sauce. To make the dish more flavorful, a perfectly cooked egg topped it.
Reviews:
“Food and ambiance was great! For a high end restaurant it really didn’t break the bank. The quality of flavors are just as good as the eye test. Looks good and tastes like it looks. Reservations were easy to make and change online. An actual table number was reserved and had our name on it(Not literally). It just felt like we belonged and you can’t replace that feeling. Overall great restaurant that filled all of the boxes!” – Cory Jarvis
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 546 North Glenstone Springfield, Missouri 65803 (Located inside the Oasis Hotel)
- Contact Information: (417) 522-7711
- Price Range: $7 - $400
- Click here to check out their menu!
Looking for another farm-to-table restaurant? Go to the Farmers Gastropub! It is a traditional English pub that offers the finest and freshest cuisine. They change their menu depending on the seasons to ensure they use the freshest ingredients available at the market.
They also whip up their sauces and house pickles from scratch. They slice the chips, smoke the trout, and grow their own peppers, herbs, radishes, and other fresh goodies at the pub. The restaurant has a refined ambiance, ideal for beer and wine drinkers.
Must-Try:
- Pan Seared Cod – A delightful combination of champ mashed potatoes, sautéed cabbage, and crispy bacon, all complemented by a rich caper butter sauce. The fish boast great taste and are never too undercooked or overcooked.
- Cream of Mushroom & Sage Soup – A hearty and savory delight topped with crispy garlic croutons with a hint of tanginess. The mushrooms are perfectly blended for a seamless, flavorful experience.
- Scotch Egg – A tasteful appetizer that contains savory ground pork and a soft-boiled egg with a nice bit of runny yolk. When you bite, it gives a crispy sausage outside while perfectly cooked on the inside. It is topped off with piccalilli and whole-grain mustard.
Reviews:
“My husband and I have been regular customers for years and always have a great experience. The service is top-notch every time. The rotating food specials never disappoint, but the set menu is also delicious. The beer selection and cocktail mixology are the best of the best in Springfield.” – Sukie Kaniowski
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 2620 S Glenstone Springfield, MO 65804
- Contact Information: 417-864-6994
- Price Range: $5 - $24
- Click here to check out their menu!
Pizzerias Galore
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With crispy crusts, overflowing cheese, and a medley of irresistible toppings, Springfield’s pizzerias indeed have a lot to offer when providing a tasteful slice for every pizza enthusiast.
A pie shop that creates pizzas with an array of flavorful combinations. It has a vintage vibe, ideal for lunch or if you are looking for a relaxing place. They specialize in hand-rolled thin-crust pizzas crafted in-house and use delectable and fresh toppings.
Each pizza is prepared using their traditional oven at a high temperature, ensuring a fresh and delectable dining experience.
Must-Try:
- Deluxe Pizza – A thin and crispy pizza with a good amount of toppings of your choice, from ham, sausage, pepperoni, onion, green peppers, mushrooms, and black olives.
- Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza – Thin and crispy pizza rich with cheese, pepperoni, and sausage toppings.
Reviews:
“Really awesome pizza if you like thin and crispy. They’ve been in business for decades. Very nice, nostalgic kinda of place. The servers are very nice and friendly. Decently fast service. Great place to get a bite if you’re on “C” street and doing shopping” – James Latham
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 312 E Commercial St, Springfield, MO 65803, United States
- Contact Information: (417) 881-4073
- Price Range: $4 - $20
- Click here to check out their menu!
A counter-serve Springfield pizzeria that offers individual slices and made-to-order New York-style pizzas. This cozy establishment is one of the top destinations for indulging in stuffed-style pizzas.
Not only that, The Big Slice also offers sandwiches, desserts, customizable salad options, and beverages.
Must-Try:
- Classic Cheese – A New York-style pizza with rich red sauce and perfectly melted cheese. It is not too greasy, with the cheese intact and a generous scattering of delicious meat.
- Creamy Spinach – A mouth-watering stuffed pizza with a rich blend of ricotta cheese, spinach, and tomato.
- Jamaican Me Spicy – A flavor-packed pizza with spiced andouille sausage, crispy bacon, vibrant green peppers, and savory onions that will transport your taste buds to a world of bold and zesty flavors.
Reviews:
“My new favorite pizza place. Pizza by the slice pizzerias are a dying breed but this place is fantastic. Fair prices, fantastic crust and some of the best boneless wings I’ve had in Missouri. Fountain drinks have a nice selection. Pretty quick service even on a Saturday.” – Lee Reeves
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 1454 E Sunshine St Springfield, MO 65804 and 4126 S Kansas Expressway Suite 112 Springfield, MO 65807
- Contact Information: (417) 720 1928 and (417) 720 4108
- Price Range: $2 - $40
- Click here to check out their menu!
International Flavors
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From small local eateries to the best restaurants in Springfield, MO, you will get to experience diverse cuisines with International flavors, from the spicy and exotic to the savory and comforting dishes of Asia to Europe.
Leong’s Asian Diner is a Chinese establishment with a full bar. Their menu features authentic Asian cuisines and classic American comfort food catering to every taste bud. They also provide an extensive bar menu, from bourbon to beer to wine.
Must-Try:
- Crab Rangoon – A deep-fried wonton wrap filled with surimi crab, velvety cream cheese, and a hint of scallions. The light and crispy texture complements each bite.
- Springfield Cashew Chicken – An original creation of David Leong of Leong’s Asian Diner, now copied by several restaurants across the country and Asian countries! It features small, perfectly chicken bites, fried to perfection, coated with sauce, and garnished with finely chopped green onions and toasted cashews. The chicken’s coating is crispy, the meat is tender, and the sauce steals the spotlight with its exceptional flavor.
Reviews:
“Forgive the partially eaten cashew chicken! It was good. For the strictly Asian palette, please be aware that this is a westernized Asian dinner. They’ve been serving their local community for decades and the clientele is amazing.
You definitely have to try their cashew chicken. The savoriness is not overcome with the typical sweetness you’ll experience from Chinese takeout places, in fact it is pleasantly salty with a slight nuttiness.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, which makes for a great divine experience. They have a kids’ menu with a coloring activity, and crayons to boot!” – Andrew Lee
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 1540 West Republic Road, Springfield, MO 65807-5707
- Contact Information: (417) 887-7500
- Price Range: $2 - $40
- Click here to check out their menu!
It is an eat-all-you-can Italian dining establishment where you can eat with all your heart as much as you would like. They offer extensive Italian favorites, from savory meats to pasta.
Additionally, The Hill Italian Restaurant will entice your taste buds with an incredible lineup of drinks and cocktails that complement their fresh, cheesy, saucy, and delightful dishes.
Must-Try:
- Fettuccine Alfredo – A classic favorite made with pasta bathed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Toasted Jalapeno Ravioli – Toasted ravioli filled with a spicy jalapeño-infused blend, delivering an irresistible fusion of flavors.
- Butternut Squash Casserole -A cozy casserole dish with perfectly cooked butternut squash and cheesy flavor.
Reviews:
“I don’t know why I waited so long to come here. What can I say but all you can eat Italian!!! The atmosphere was relaxing even when it was busy and the food was really fresh. There are a lot of things I went back for like the jalapeno stuffed ravioli!!! Smack!!! Cute little ice cream section as well definitely added carbs today but it was so good. Vegan options available also which makes even nicer. Quaint for a date night will definitely come back.” – Matthew Mitchell
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 600 E Battlefield Rd, Springfield, MO 65807
- Contact Information: (417) 920-8850
- Price Range: $10 - $30
- Click here to check out their menu!
Dining Tips and Recommendations
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Reservations
Some of the best restaurants in Springfield, MO can get very crowded, especially during weekends and peak hours. It will be helpful to book reservations in advance, especially if you have a specific restaurant in mind to secure a spot and make the most out of your dining.
Call as early as possible before the date you want to book a reservation, especially during holidays or peak hours when booking is complex. A few weeks before the reservation, confirm it again by calling them to ensure no problem.
You can visit the restaurant website that is on your mind to get their contact information for reservation. Some restaurants also use online reservation forms. Take advantage of these tools to secure your table without hassle.
Special Diets
Restaurants in Springfield, MO, are aware of different dietary preferences. Whether you’re vegan, kosher, gluten-free, or have other dietary restrictions, many establishments offer specialized menus or are willing to accommodate your needs.
You can explore the city’s farm-to-table restaurants, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients are used. These establishments often provide diverse menu options suitable for various dietary preferences.
You can also communicate your diet to the staff, who may offer suggestions to suit your dietary requirements and ensure your dining experience is delicious.
Takeout and Delivery
Springfield’s restaurants often provide convenient takeout and delivery options. You can visit the restaurant’s website to book your order online.
Before placing your order, explore online menus and reviews to ensure you choose the perfect meal. Many restaurants have user-friendly websites or partner with food delivery apps, so it will be easy to browse their menus, customize your order, and have a delightful dining experience wherever you prefer.
Explore Beyond the City
There are many restaurants in Springfield, MO, that have been local favorites. However, while Springfield boasts an impressive food scene, feel free to explore the culinary scene in the surrounding areas.
Several hidden gems out there are just waiting to be discovered! From quaint cafes to rustic diners, go on an adventure to find the diverse flavors the state of Missouri offers.
Keep an eye on food festivals and culinary events in and around Springfield! This is an opportunity to experience the best local food scene, taste various dishes, meet local chefs, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant food culture.
Wrap Up
There are many of the best restaurants in Springfield, MO, to choose from; whether you are looking for fine dining, flavorful BBQ or pizza, farm-to-table dishes, or craving international cuisines, Springfield has a table for you while ensuring you have a delightful journey filled with diverse flavors and unique dining experiences.
Dining isn’t only about having a meal; it is a journey of tasting the flavors Springfield has to offer. And to make the most out of it, remember the tips and recommendations we provided.
If you have questions or are interested in learning more about Springfield, MO, please do not hesitate to contact our team by calling us at 417-241-6565 or sending us a message via office@gatewaymo.com. To be updated with events or news at Springfield, you can follow our social channels below:
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Springfield, MO?
Of course! Springfield has several vegetarian-friendly restaurants, such as Cafe Cusco, Civil Kitchen, and more. These establishments have dedicated vegetarian menus and are often willing to customize dishes to suit dietary preferences.
2. What is the best time to visit Springfield’s restaurants?
The best time to visit a restaurant in Springfield depends on several factors, such as your preference, type of restaurant, and budget. Often, the ideal time to dine in is during happy hour (8 am to 10 am and 2 pm to 5 pm), as it is off-peak, and some restaurants offer discounts.
Lunchtime also often has the least crowd when eating at a restaurant, which is perfect for relaxing dining. Furthermore, if you want to unwind and avoid crows, it is also ideal to visit during weeknights rather than weekends.
3. Can I find restaurants that cater to dietary restrictions?
Definitely! Most restaurants in Springfield are aware of dietary restrictions, offering gluten-free, vegan, and other specialized menu options. You can try dining at farm-to-table restaurants for freshly prepared food, where menus suit those on a diet.
4. Are reservations necessary at Springfield’s top restaurants?
Not always, but it is recommended for top restaurants in Springfields because sometimes it is hard to secure a seat. It would be better to book a reservation, especially during peak hours and weekends.
You can make reservations through their online forms or by contacting the restaurant directly.
5. What is the signature dish of Springfield, MO?
Springfield is renowned for their Springfield-Style Cashew Chicken. It is the city’s signature dish since over 50 years ago and a must-try.
6. Do restaurants in Springfield offer outdoor seating?
Yes. Some restaurants in Springfield have outdoor settings, whether patio, sidewalk seating, or garden setting. Some restaurants you can try are Tea Bar & Bites, Char Steakhouse & Oyster Bar, Vantage Rooftop Lounge & Conservatory, and Wire Road Brewing Company.
