Springfield is home to a vibrant, diverse culinary scene that is known for its award-winning dining. Located on Route 66, Springfield is home to travelers from all around the world, who made the city their home, and have brought the very best cuisine from all around the world to the city.
If you find yourself in Springfield, know that supporting local businesses is key to discovering the hidden gems in the city.
In this article, we will discuss some of the culinary highlights you can explore in the city, for a memorable dinner experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot, a place for the kids, or anything in between, you’ll find it here.
Let's get into it!
Image Source: Café Cusco
Café Cusco is one of the highest-rated dinner restaurants in Springfield. The Peruvian-inspired restaurant is located in a beautiful historic building, built in 1883. The incorporation of charming decor in this historic building creates a romantic and authentic ambiance.
In terms of what you’ll find on the menu, you can expect to find an extensive choice of light meals such as chili mango shrimp salad, Latin rice dishes and fajitas, for example. Café Cusco also offers its very own vegan menu, and can male most of their meals gluten-free.
Image Source: Metropolitan Grill
Metropolitan Grill is one of the highest-rated dinner restaurants in Springfield. The upscale, modern restaurant is known for its beloved steaks and extensive wine menu. To date, they are the only restaurant in Springfield to win the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence.
The ambiance of the restaurants is lively, yet upscale, and is a popular spot for late night diners.
The menu changes every few months, based on what organic, high quality ingredients can be sourced by the chef. However, some staples include high quality cuts of meat such as smoked lamb, wood fired pizzas and refreshing salads made from local ingredients.
Image Source: Fire & Ice Restaurant
Springfield’s Fire and Ice restaurant and bar is not only the only ice bar in Springfield, but is also home to one of the most beloved American style dinner restaurants. The lively restaurant is open-plan, allowing you to watch the chefs at work, with impressive flames often roaring out of the kitchen.
The imaginative menu is based around classic steak fishes, as well as seafood, with contemporary twists. Some of the most popular options on the menu include the sesame-crusted tuna, the hand cut Fire and Ice filet, and the dry-aged rib-eye. For those looking for lighter meals, the restaurant also services a number of pizzas, burgers and salads.
Image Source: PaPPo's Pizzeria South Springfield
PaPPo pizzeria is a favorite for family dinner nights. The restaurant specializes in Italian food such as calzones, pizza and fresh pasta.
On the menu you’ll find an impressive selection of stone hearth pizzas, made with fresh ingredients. Currently, there are 32 craft pizzas on the menu to choose from. There are also options to build your own pizza, making it a great choice for picky kids, or creative adults.
Their famous brown butter chocolate chip cookies are also a moreish dessert, after indulging in some fresh Italian meals.
Image Source: Black Sheep
Black Sheep burger and shakes is one of, if not the, best burger place in town. Don’t just take our word for it. The joint is the proud winner of the Traveler’s Choice by TripAdvisor in 2023 along with the best burgers in Missouri.
Their burgers are made with top quality ingredients, such as locally farmed wagyu and Angus beef. For those craving some loaded fries, their signature smoked fries are rated some of the best in the state. The You Are Smoke’ fries are one of the most popular on the menu, and come with apple n’ hickory smoked fries, which are loaded with sautéed jalapeños, organic baba, cheese sauce as well as homemade pulled pork & chipotle BBQ.
The casual atmosphere is perfect for families, casual dates and catch-ups with friends.
Adults can also indulge in the naughty-but-nice boozy shakes.
Image Source: Jimm's Steakhouse & Pub
Jimm’s Steakhouse is a great fine dining establishment, which is known for its great flame grilled steaks. The decadent meals have pleased even the harshest of critics.
A popular amongst meat lovers, the menu boasts a selection of flamed grilled cuts, seafood and its very own pub menu. One of their most popular menu items includes the Jimm’s select prime rib, which is carved to order and rubbed with onion and garlic, before being slow roasted.
The establishment is a popular spot for date nights, and get-togethers with friends, rather than family dinners.
Image Source: Bruno's Italian Restaurant
Stepping into Bruno’s 1902 historic building is like stepping into a portal, transporting you to the heart of Italy. With Sicilian-inspired salads, brick oven cooked pizzas and authentic Italian entrées, the restaurant promises to deliver the most authentic Italian dining you’ll find in the city.
On the menu you’ll find the likes of truffle-infused AHI Tuna, creamy lobster bisque and pomodoro pasta, along with their stretchy homemade pizzas, of course.
When it comes to the drinks menu, you'll find classic Italian cocktails, hand-picked wines and barista made coffee.
Dining in Springfield is an exciting experience, with numerous award-winning options. Whether you’re after an authentic Italian experience, homely pub meals or looking to satisfy a burger craving, you’ll find it all here.
Exploring the city’s diverse culinary scene allows you to explore the city for all its gems and nourishes your understanding of the city’s culture.
