Springfield, Missouri is known for its diverse dining scene, with restaurants catering to every palette, mood and budget.
From fine dining restaurants to humble, family run local institutions, there are plenty of options in this lively city to satisfy your hunger cravings.
Some of the most popular cuisines include Italian, Greek and classic American.
Here are the 19 best restaurants in Springfield, Missouri that should feature on your itinerary.
1. Metropolitan Grill
The Metropolitan Grill is one the best restaurants in Springfield, Missouri if you’re looking for somewhere that has a fine dining atmosphere and delicious, high quality food to match.
Featuring a selection of steaks, seafood and an extensive wine list, this makes for a great choice for special occasions.
Some of the most highly rated menu items include the sea bass, the Mikey steak and the flash fried spinach.
If you have a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to an upscale dining experience while visiting Springfield, Missouri, you should definitely book a table at the Metropolitan Grill.
2. Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes
This is one of the top places in Springfield, Missouri for gourmet burgers, filling sandwiches and indulgent milkshakes.
Whilst the menu changes frequently with new and innovative creations, you can also find the classics year round.
Some of the most popular menu items include the Springphilly and Don’t go Bacon my Heart.
You can customize the toppings to include your favorite additions, from grilled onions to a variety of sauces.
Other top rated menu items are the crispy parmesan fries and the peanut butter milkshake.
You won’t be leaving hungry from this place.
3. The Flame Steakhouse and Wine Bar
One of the best-rated restaurants in Springfield, Missouri is the Flame Steakhouse and Wine Bar.
With its upscale menu, stylish decor and lively ambience, you’ll quickly see how it lives up to the hype.
The focus here is on a range of cuts, alongside fresh seafood and an extensive wine list.
In addition to high quality cuisine, the service is known to be impeccable with friendly and courteous staff being on hand to cater to their discerning guests.
If you want an unpretentious but special dining experience, this is a highly recommended option to consider when visiting Springfield, Missouri.
4. Casper’s Diner
If you’re wondering where to eat in Springfield, Missouri when you want a classic American diner experience.
The quirky and cozy decor provides a fun ambience to settle into some delicious comfort food.
Some of the menu highlights here include the chili and classic cheeseburgers.
There are also healthier options including salads, sandwiches and other light bites.
If you have a sweet tooth, you might also be tempted by their upside down cake which remains much loved by the locals.
5. Dublin’s Pass Irish Pub & Restaurant
This Irish pub serves up traditional Irish fare, as well as some popular American dishes in a lively and relaxed setting.
If you’re looking for somewhere with live music, great beer and a varied menu, this place should be at the top of your list.
Some of the menu item favorites here include fish and chips and fried chicken.
Make sure to keep an eye out for the quirky decor of beer bottles hanging from the ceiling, and the friendly hospitality of the long serving staff.
6. Springfield Brewing Company
Conveniently located in downtown Springfield, this multi-purpose microbrewery and restaurant offers a variety of craft beers brewed on-site, along with a classic American pub menu.
To accompany your choice of beer, you can also order pizzas, fried chicken and buffalo wings.
The pub itself is over two storeys and has rustic wooden paneling to create a warm and cozy vibe.
The Springfield Brewing Company has been around since 1997 and is a firm favorite amongst locals and visitors.
7. Mexican Villa
For Mexican cuisine, Mexican Villa has some of the best food in Springfield, Missouri.
This family owned restaurant serves hungry diners its specialties of classic Tex-Mex dishes, from tacos, nachos, burritos and enchiladas.
There are a few locations of this restaurant, however the one closest to downtown Springfield is located on S. National Avenue, and is amongst the most popular and highest rated.
The cocktails are also strong here, so it’s a great option when you’re feeling celebratory.
8. Jose Locos
Another popular Mexican restaurant in Springfield, Missouri is the long-running Jose Locos.
This restaurant serves traditional style Mexican food along with its popular jumbo size Margaritas in a fun and colorful setting.
Some of the most popular menu items here include tacos served with chips and fresh salsa, bean enchiladas and Mexican fried rice.
They also have a children’s menu in case you are traveling with kids and are in need of some not-too-spicy and child-friendly options.
9. Cafe Cusco
One of the top Springfield, Missouri restaurants is Cafe Cusco.
Offering both traditional and inventive Peruvian cuisine, Cafe Cusco is a great place to go if you’re looking for something a bit different to standard American fare.
At Cafe Cusco you’ll find steak, stir frys and seafood, alongside an extensive cocktail list and traditional Peruvian desserts, such as flan.
The interiors are colorful and quirky and create a lively ambience to enjoy a fun dinner.
The staff are also warm and happy to help with menu recommendations to make sure you have a thoroughly enjoyable experience when dining at Cafe Cusco.
10. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is one of the more popular restaurants in Springfield, Missouri for traditional American cuisine.
The focus here is on filling, comfort meals with a Texas twist.
Whilst the ambience is casual, it makes for a reliable and family-friendly choice of venue.
Some of the most popular menu items here include the Buffalo chicken wraps, the ribs and pot pie.
Occasionally they also serve up a classic Texas T Bone steak that receives rave reviews and is a popular choice amongst locals.
The servings are very generous here, so make sure you either come hungry or with a friend.
11. Alli’s Family Restaurant
Although located on the edge of Springfield, Missouri, Alli’s Family Restaurant is well worth making the trip for a taste of vintage American diner food.
This family-run restaurant serves up classic breakfast items and comfort food from 6 in the morning.
The portions are generous here so make sure you come with an empty stomach, and you’ll be rewarded for high quality home style cooking.
A few of the most popular items on the menu include pancakes, biscuit and gravy and classic cheeseburgers.
Some of the staff have been working at this diner for over twenty years, making it an iconic Springfield, Missouri institution.
12. Amigos Mexican Restaurant
If you’re in the mood for a Mexican fiesta, the locally loved Amigos Mexican Restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Springfield, Missouri for authentic Mexican food.
The extensive menu offers both classic dishes along with fusion options, including tacos, fajitas and enchiladas.
The house specialties include the Amigos Special which comes with chicken chimichangas with cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, rice and beans.
There are also vegetarian options available for those who prefer a meat-free diet.
The venue itself is small but decorated with festive flair, and the cozy space creates a lively ambience for a fun night out.
13. Greek Belly
One of the most popular places in Springfield, Missouri is the cozy and charming Greek Belly.
With a focus on feeding fresh and authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine to hungry diners, this restaurant serves fillings pitas, flavorful wraps and hearty gyros.
As the seating is limited, most diners tend to stop in for a quick and filling bite before continuing on with their day.
You can also get takeaway if you’re in a hurry, with a fast moving queue and efficient but friendly staff.
The owners do use the space to run events and celebrations regularly, so call ahead to check if they’ll be closed for a private function.
14. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
The Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is a restaurant and general store combined into one large and busy space.
Serving an all day menu from breakfast through to dinner, here you can tuck into their famous pancakes, scones and sandwiches.
Once you’ve had your meal, make sure to spend a few minutes wandering around the general store.
They sell a large variety of goodies, from snacks and pre-prepared meals to homewares and souvenirs.
The staff are known for their classic Southern hospitality and can help you find the perfect treat to take away.
15. Avanzare Italian Dining
If you’re looking for a restaurant to celebrate a special occasion or just want to enjoy a fine dining experience whilst you’re in Springfield, Missouri, you should consider Avanzare Italian Dining.
This restaurant has a more upscale atmosphere, and serves refined Northern Italian cuisine with accompanying wines.
Whilst the prices are above average compared to more casual eateries, you will be treated to fresh seafood, superbly prepared pasta based dishes along with delicious desserts.
If you’re not sure what to order, the serving staff can make recommendations to suit your individual palette.
16. PaPPo’s Pizzeria and Pub Downtown
When you just want a casual and easygoing pub atmosphere that serves both great beer and delicious pizzas, PaPPo’s Pizzeria and Pub Downtown is the place to go.
This laid back eatery is known for its thin style crunchy pizza bases that come with a range of toppings and flavors.
The menu includes unusual options such as eggplant parmigiana to classics such as margherita and pepperoni.
If you’re not in the mood for pizza, they also have a range of appetizers from salads, meatballs and fried ravioli.
For those with dietary restrictions, the staff can also accommodate requests and prepare a gluten free crust.
This place can be very busy, particularly on college football nights, so make sure you either come early or reserve a table in advance.
17. Culver’s
Although Culver’s is a chain restaurant, its specialty is serving its signature burgers made with Midwest beef and dairy.
So if you’re looking for local flavors in a laid back atmosphere, Culver’s is a great option for a hearty and filling burger meal.
The menu includes classic American dishes such as cheeseburgers, chips and hand battered fish.
The real draw card here though is the frozen custard and thickshakes.
You can choose your flavor of frozen custard along with all the add ons you want, to create your own ideal dessert.
Or if you’re overwhelmed by the choice, you can also choose one of the premade options, with the Chocolate Concrete topped with chocolate cake and pieces of brownie being a much loved favorite.
18. Tong’s Thai Restaurant
When you are craving some spicy Oriental cuisine, Tong’s Thai Restaurant in the heart of Springfield, Missouri is always a reliable option.
Here you can find both authentic Thai and Chinese dishes, from curries, noodles, rice and seafood.
Some of the most popular items are the Crab Rangoon and the wok fried Veg noodles.
If the spice levels are a bit higher than what you prefer, make sure to ask for the famous Tong’s Thai Tea to help cool your palette.
The friendly owner, Tong, is also known to serve guests himself so keep an eye out for his warm and generous hospitality
19. That Lebanese Place
A great option in Springfield, Missouri when you’re in the mood for fresh and healthy Middle Eastern flavors is That Lebanese Place.
With consistent five star reviews and returning customers, this place focuses on high quality, fresh ingredients, generous portions and warm service.
Some of the most frequently ordered items include the lamb and chicken kebabs, falafel platters and varieties of dips with flatbread.
Even if you’re not hungry enough for a whole meal, you should stop in for their famous Turkish coffee and desserts.
The restaurant is family run and you will often find several generations of the family in the kitchen or helping guests with recommendations in the main dining area.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
