Springfield is a vibrant hub of culinary treasures. Fine dining restaurants have developed alongside local farmers and wineries from across the world to bring you some beloved fine dining spots known for their commitment to excellence.
If you’re looking to experience Springfield’s fine dining culture, whether that be to experience the pleasures of the finger things in life or to celebrate a special occasion, you'll find it in our beloved city.
In this article we will be showcasing the top fine dining restaurants in Springfield, highlighting some of the must-try locations.
Let's get into it!
Image Source: Char Steakhouse and Oyster Bar
The owners of Char Steakhouse and Oyster Bar are easily the most devoted steak enthusiasts you’ll ever meet. The popular restaurant is the sister of Flame Steakhouse and Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes, both known for their commitment to delicious burgers and steaks.
The Char Steakhouse and Oyster Bar is a modern take on the traditional steakhouse. They serve hand-cut steaks that are wet-aged for a minimum of 25 days. This comes as no surprise as you’ll be greeted with a wide range of cuts in the dry aging room as you enter the restaurant. Some of the cuts you’ll see on the menu include the 45 oz Prime grade long bone Tomahawk and Snake River Farms wagyu strip.
Asides from their carefully curated steak menu, they also offer other fine dining classics such as Prince Edward Island mussels. These make for excellent entrées, and pairs perfectly with their thoughtfully selected wine menu.
There is no need to know what to pair your meals with, as the charming waiters are knowledgeable on perfect wine and food pairings, and are happy to provide you with advice to create a memorable dining experience.
After your meals, you can enjoy a drink in the lounge. The lounge is open well into the night, and is a great spot for couples that come to dine together. Couples can often be seen savoring a glass of wine, or a cocktail after their meal, enjoying each other's company in the candle lit lounge.
If you’re looking for a more intimate dining experience or are celebrating a special occasion with a group, the private room is available for hire. This allows you to enjoy the pleasures of fine dining, along with some privacy to celebrate intimate moments with friends and family.
Image Source: Metropolitan Grill
Metropolitan Grill is one of the highest-rated fine dining restaurants in Springfield. The restaurant was established in 2005 by Chef Pat and has since earned a strong reputation for its culinary excellence.
The upscale 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 chef prides himself on sourcing fresh ingredients, both locally and across the state, to create modern and innovative meals. The menu is updated 3–4 times a year to reflect the seasonal availability of fresh produce and evolving culinary trends.
Some of their staple meals include wood fire pizza, cooked to perfection with a crunchy base and fresh ingredients, along with wood smoked meats and their popular surf ‘n’ surf.
If you’re a wine enthusiast, make sure to ask your server about the perfect wine pairings to your meals. Their extensive menu offers the perfect accompaniment to any of their meals if you know what to look for.
Image Source: Finley Farms
Located in the beautiful historic Park Mill, the Garrison is a small yet charming and elegant restaurant. The restaurant was initially opened by the legendary Howard Garrison as the owner of the famed Riverside Inn Restaurant. Although quite a character, Mr Garrison had a passion for the restaurant like no other, and often could be found harvesting wild flowers as decorations for his tables.
The restaurant has survived Prohibition, the Great Depression, and the many challenges since then. It has now become one of the finest fine dining establishments in the Ozarks.
On the menu you’ll find beautiful dishes such as quail, bouillabaisse, scallops and duck fat potatoes, for example.
The restaurant is intimate and lined with classic decor, wooden floors and is gently candle-lit, creating the perfect ambiance. The cozy patio space also gives unmatched views of the river, mill pond dam, and Riverside Bridge. This is the perfect place to enjoy a drink after an intimate dinner.
Because of the popularity, and small size of the restaurant, bookings are in high demand. Bookings open 30 days prior to the date, at 10am, and are competitive. If you’re looking for the very best fine dining, in a historic setting, make sure to keep an eye out on the bookings.
Image Source: Ariake Sushi & Robata
Ariake Sushi and Robata is a creative and innovative sushi restaurant that blends traditional Japanese style cooking with modern approaches to gastronomy, to create pieces of art. Executive Sushi Chef/Owner John Jung and his wife Young Jung pride themselves in creating dishes that are innovative and push the boundaries of what it means to be a fine dining restaurant.
The restaurant is designed with modern architectural decorations, creating a futuristic space that stands out from other fine dining establishments. Whilst hanging lanterns reminds you of the beautiful culture that Japanese people, including the chefs, take great pride in.
On the menu, you'll find a range of fine dining classics, such as oysters, along with innovative and artistic pieces. It is difficult to enjoy your meal without capturing them in a photo, purely for the meal’s exquisite presentation.
Some of the menu highlights include dishes such as white Usuzukuri thinly sliced flounder, with yuzu, pear, black lava salt, candied quinoa, and topped up with smooth chili oil. Other decadent meals include their famous wagyu beef steak, lobster dishes, and Chilean sea bass.
We recommend trying their extensive list of Sake with your meals. The servers are well versed in suggesting the perfect Sake pairing with your meal, adding to the depth of experience.
Image Source: Avanzare Italian Dining
Owned and operated by five-star chef Tony Garcia, Avanzare Italian Dining brings you the very best of North Italian cuisine. You can see his genius at work, through the open kitchen, as he proudly showcases his skill and passion for fine dining.
Their menu boasts a range of elegant meals, including a range of antipasti, pasta, and salads. Some of their most popular dishes include the Melanzane alla parmigiana featuring eggplant that is lightly breaded and pan-fried, topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, and served with spaghetti marinara.
The lively atmosphere is created with Italian music, charming wait staff and the general popularity of the restaurant. Whilst booking is recommended, you can sometimes get away with walk-ins.
When dining here, we recommend booking a taxi home and enjoying the wine offered on their extensive and carefully curated wine menu.
Springfield’s fine dining restaurants offer a diverse range of excellent gastronomic experiences. From modern Japanese to classic Italian and upmarket steak houses, you’ll find something for everyone’s palate.
Fine dining is one of the best ways to experience the culinary joys offered by the region. These restaurants source local ingredients, and highlight the diversity offered by the vibrant city.
If you’re looking for the next best thing, have someone special to impress, or are celebrating a special occasion, give these restaurants a try.
Because of their popularity, it is often best to call ahead and book. Checking when bookings open and calling in advance will make sure you don't miss out on these gems.
