When you think of Springfield, Missouri, the first thing that might come to mind is its rich history, the legacy of Route 66, or perhaps the bustling nature of downtown. The blend of Midwestern comfort food, southern influence, and fresh, local ingredients makes Springfield an underrated gastronomic destination.
In this article, I’ll take you on a personal journey through Springfield’s must-try local foods.
1. Springfield-Style Cashew Chicken
Where to Try It: Leong’s Asian Diner
Address: 3022 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, MO
Springfield is famously home to Springfield-style cashew chicken, a local variation of a Chinese-American classic. This dish was created in the 1960s by Chinese immigrant Leong H. Hark, who made a unique twist by using a batter-fried chicken breast topped with a savory brown sauce and cashews. It’s a perfect example of Springfield’s ability to take something traditional and make it their own.
Must-Try Dish:
- Springfield Cashew Chicken: The crispy chicken is cooked to perfection, while the sauce is rich, slightly sweet, and umami-packed, with just the right amount of crunch from the cashews. This dish is a must-order at Leong’s Asian Diner, and they’ve mastered the perfect balance of flavors.
Pricing:
A typical meal here will cost you between $10 to $15 per entrée, depending on whether you opt for a small or large portion. You can expect generous servings, so it’s great value for your money.
Booking Tip:
Leong’s is a popular local spot, especially during dinner hours. While walk-ins are usually welcome, I recommend calling ahead or booking a table via platforms like OpenTable to secure a spot, especially on weekends when it gets busy.
2. Ribeye Steak at The Rib Room
Where to Try It: The Rib Room
Address: 1544 E. Republic Rd, Springfield, MO
For those who enjoy a hearty, perfectly grilled steak, Springfield’s The Rib Room is a must-visit. Known for its legendary steaks, The Rib Room serves up some of the finest cuts of beef in the area. If you’re a steak enthusiast, you can’t leave Springfield without trying their ribeye steak, which is one of their signature dishes.
Must-Try Dish:
- Ribeye Steak: Charbroiled to your desired temperature, the Ribeye at The Rib Room is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Paired with mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables, it’s an ideal dish to satisfy any carnivore’s craving.
Pricing:
Expect to pay around $20-$40 for a ribeye steak, depending on the size and any accompanying sides. It’s a bit pricier than some other local spots, but it’s well worth it for the quality and flavor.
Booking Tip:
The Rib Room can fill up quickly, so I suggest using a booking platform like Resy to secure your reservation ahead of time, especially if you’re planning to dine on a Friday or Saturday evening.
3. Fried Catfish at The Ozark Mountain Smokehouse
Where to Try It: The Ozark Mountain Smokehouse
Address: 2760 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, MO
Springfield, like much of Missouri, is no stranger to fried catfish. The Ozark Mountain Smokehouse offers an authentic taste of southern-style fried catfish, served with homemade sides like coleslaw and hushpuppies. The fish is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and seasoned just right.
Must-Try Dish:
- Fried Catfish Fillets: The catfish here is freshly prepared and perfectly fried, with just the right amount of seasoning to enhance its natural flavor. Don’t forget to dip it in the tangy homemade tartar sauce!
Pricing:
You can enjoy a hearty portion of fried catfish for around $15-$18, which comes with a choice of two sides. The servings are generous, making it a great value.
Booking Tip:
This local favorite is usually pretty casual, but it’s still a good idea to check their website or call ahead if you’re visiting during peak hours.
4. The Springfield-Style Burger at Patton Alley Pub
Where to Try It: Patton Alley Pub
Address: 314 Patton Ave., Springfield, MO
When it comes to burgers, Springfield has its own take, which you can find at Patton Alley Pub. The local Springfield-style burger is made with fresh, high-quality beef and loaded with local toppings. At Patton Alley Pub, their take on the Springfield-style burger is one of the best I’ve had.
Must-Try Dish:
- Patton Alley Burger: A juicy beef patty, topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and local greens, all sandwiched between a freshly toasted bun. It’s the perfect burger for a casual lunch or dinner.
Pricing:
The burger will run you around $12-$15, depending on any add-ons or sides you choose.
Booking Tip:
Patton Alley Pub is a popular hangout, especially on weekends, so booking a table via Yelp Reservations or just calling ahead is a good idea if you’re coming during busy hours.
5. Taco Salad at El Patio Mexican Restaurant
Where to Try It: El Patio Mexican Restaurant
Address: 2060 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, MO
For those who crave bold, spicy flavors, El Patio Mexican Restaurant offers a fantastic taco salad. This dish combines crispy tortilla shells with seasoned beef, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, guacamole, and cheese, all tossed together in a vibrant dressing. It’s the perfect dish for a light yet satisfying meal.
Must-Try Dish:
- Taco Salad: The combination of flavors is incredibly fresh and satisfying. The taco shell is perfectly crispy, and the generous portions of beef and toppings will leave you craving more.
Pricing:
The taco salad costs around $10 to $12, making it an affordable option for those looking to enjoy a tasty meal without breaking the bank.
Booking Tip:
Although El Patio is usually casual, it can get crowded, especially during the lunch rush. Consider calling ahead or using OpenTable to reserve a spot if you’re going with a group.
6. Missouri-Style BBQ Ribs at Big Whiskey’s American Bar & Grill
Where to Try It: Big Whiskey’s American Bar & Grill
Address: 2931 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, MO
If there’s one thing Missouri is known for, it’s BBQ—and Big Whiskey’s American Bar & Grill knows how to do it right. Their Missouri-style BBQ ribs are tender, juicy, and slathered in a smoky, tangy sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Must-Try Dish:
- BBQ Ribs: The ribs here are slow-cooked to perfection, falling off the bone and packed with flavor. Pair them with a side of crispy fries and some coleslaw, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable meal.
Pricing:
Ribs are priced around $20 for a half rack and $30 for a full rack. It’s definitely worth the price for the quality and taste.
Booking Tip:
Big Whiskey’s has a lively atmosphere, so reservations for larger parties can be made through Resy to avoid long wait times.
7. Apple Dumplings at the Amish Country Store
Where to Try It: Amish Country Store
Address: 1935 W. Republic Rd., Springfield, MO
For a taste of something sweet and comforting, head over to the Amish Country Store for their famous apple dumplings. These warm, cinnamon-infused treats are served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making them the perfect dessert after a filling meal.
Must-Try Dish:
- Apple Dumplings: The apples are perfectly baked inside a flaky pastry crust, and the cinnamon-sugar topping gives it an irresistible sweetness. This dish is a local favorite and a must-try for dessert lovers.
Pricing:
You can expect to pay around $5 to $7 for an order of apple dumplings, which includes a generous portion of two dumplings. If you’re looking for a simple but decadent dessert, this is a great value.
Booking Tip:
While the Amish Country Store is a charming and quaint spot, it doesn’t typically require reservations. However, weekends can get crowded, so I recommend arriving early or using Yelp to check the wait times before heading out.
8. Fried Green Tomatoes at The Gillioz Theatre Cafe
Where to Try It: The Gillioz Theatre Cafe
Address: 325 N. Main Ave., Springfield, MO
There’s something about fried green tomatoes that screams Southern comfort, and Springfield doesn’t shy away from this crispy delicacy. Served as an appetizer or a side, The Gillioz Theatre Cafe serves up some of the best fried green tomatoes in the area. The café, located in the heart of downtown near the historic Gillioz Theatre, provides a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying this Southern classic.
Must-Try Dish:
- Fried Green Tomatoes: The tomatoes are thickly sliced and coated in a cornmeal batter, fried to golden perfection. Served with a side of remoulade sauce, this appetizer is tangy, crispy, and utterly satisfying.
Pricing:
Fried green tomatoes are priced around $8 for a small appetizer portion, which is perfect for sharing. It’s a great starter if you’re planning on diving into other local specialties afterward.
Booking Tip:
The Gillioz Theatre Cafe is connected to a theater, so it’s usually busier on nights when shows are playing. To avoid long waits, consider booking a table ahead of time via OpenTable or calling directly if you’re visiting during peak hours.
9. Turtle Soup at The Urban Cup
Where to Try It: The Urban Cup
Address: 223 E. Walnut St., Springfield, MO
A unique dish you may not find just anywhere is turtle soup, and The Urban Cup serves it up with style. The Urban Cup is an upscale café and bar that takes pride in using locally sourced ingredients to craft sophisticated comfort food. Turtle soup here is a true local delicacy, prepared with a blend of spices, a rich broth, and tender turtle meat that offers a unique and memorable experience.
Must-Try Dish:
- Turtle Soup: The rich, hearty broth is infused with a variety of herbs and spices, giving the soup a warm, earthy flavor that’s deeply satisfying. It’s an adventurous dish that’s definitely worth trying if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary.
Pricing:
Expect to pay around $12 for a bowl of turtle soup, which is quite a reasonable price for such a unique dish.
Booking Tip:
The Urban Cup can be quite popular, especially for brunch or dinner. I recommend reserving your table through Yelp Reservations or OpenTable to ensure you don’t miss out on this culinary experience.
10. Handmade Pie at Hurts Donut Co.
Where to Try It: Hurts Donut Co.
Address: 522 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, MO
For the ultimate sweet-tooth experience, no trip to Springfield would be complete without trying a handmade pie from Hurts Donut Co. While Hurts is primarily known for its wildly creative donuts, their handmade pies have developed quite a following. Freshly baked, these pies come in a variety of seasonal flavors that are nothing short of indulgent.
Must-Try Dish:
- Homemade Pie: The pies at Hurts are made with love and packed with flavor. Whether you go for a classic apple pie or something a little more adventurous like key lime or chocolate cream pie, you can’t go wrong. The flaky crust and the perfectly balanced fillings make this a top-tier dessert.
Pricing:
Pies are priced around $15 for a whole pie, and individual slices can be had for around $4 to $5. It’s a great option to share with friends or take home as a souvenir of your culinary journey through Springfield.
Booking Tip:
Hurts Donut Co. doesn’t require reservations, but it’s often packed, especially on weekends. Arriving early or ordering ahead through their website will help you avoid any long waits.
Best Platforms for Booking Your Culinary Journey in Springfield
While Springfield offers plenty of delicious food, you want your travel experience to be seamless as well. Below are a few platforms that can help you book everything from your hotel to your restaurant reservations.
1. OpenTable
OpenTable is perfect for booking reservations at the top restaurants in Springfield. Many of the best spots in town, including Leong’s Asian Diner, The Rib Room, and The Urban Cup, allow you to make reservations directly through OpenTable. It’s a great way to secure your spot in advance and avoid long waits during peak hours.
2. Resy
Resy is another excellent reservation platform, especially for high-demand restaurants. If you’re hoping to dine at popular spots like The Rib Room or Patton Alley Pub, Resy helps you lock down your reservation without the hassle of calling multiple times.
3. Expedia
When it comes to booking your accommodation, Expedia is one of the most reliable platforms to find a range of options, from luxurious boutique hotels like The Mansion on Walnut Street to budget-friendly motels. It also offers deals on flights, so you can plan your entire trip in one place. Keep an eye out for special promotions and discounts, especially if you’re booking in advance.
4. Yelp Reservations
Yelp Reservations is a great tool for booking tables at local favorites. Many Springfield restaurants, including El Patio Mexican Restaurant and Hurts Donut Co., use this platform to manage bookings. It’s especially helpful for walk-in-friendly spots that tend to get busy during peak times.
5. Booking.com
Booking.com is a great resource for securing affordable and comfortable accommodations during your stay in Springfield. Whether you’re looking for a charming bed and breakfast or a luxury hotel, you can find options with reviews, photos, and competitive pricing.
If you’re planning your trip, make sure to use platforms like OpenTable, Resy, and Expedia to secure the best deals and book your dining experiences and accommodations with ease. Don’t forget to try everything from the fried catfish at Ozark Mountain Smokehouse to the apple dumplings at the Amish Country Store—you won’t regret a single bite.
No matter how you decide to explore Springfield’s food scene, one thing’s for sure: it’s an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with memories of unforgettable meals.