Springfield, Missouri, has a dining scene that’s anything but ordinary. With hundreds of restaurants ranging from local classics and international cuisine to modern American dining, there’s always something new to discover. Springfield is also home to its own culinary tradition, including the famous Springfield-style cashew chicken. If you’re searching for the best restaurants in Springfield MO, you won’t be disappointed.
Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a memorable dinner, a great cocktail, or a unique local experience, these 10 restaurants are the best restaurants in Springfield MO worth adding to your dining list.
Note: This list is a curated local guide based on reputation, customer reviews, dining experience, and what makes each restaurant stand out. Rankings can change over time.
Make sure to explore the best restaurants in Springfield MO for a taste of what the city has to offer.
1. Scratch & Co.
Scratch-made food. Thoughtful preparation. Genuine hospitality.
Located at Plaza Towers on East Sunshine Street, Scratch & Co. brings a fresh take on everyday dining in Springfield. The restaurant focuses on elevated comfort classics made with quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
From house-made sauces and slow-cooked proteins to seasonal produce, handcrafted sandwiches, fresh salads, and hearty entrées, the menu is designed to feel familiar while still offering something a little different.
The experience doesn’t stop at the dining room. Scratch & Co. also features a rooftop bar and patio, crafted cocktails, private dining rooms, group dining, and convenient takeout.
Why visit: Scratch-made comfort food, rooftop dining, craft cocktails, private dining, and an inviting atmosphere.
Best for: Lunch meetings, casual dinners, date nights, groups, cocktails, and special occasions.
Order Online From Scratch & Co. →
2. Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes
Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes is a popular Springfield destination for creative burgers, shakes, and casual American dining. With more than 4,600 Google reviews and a 4.7 rating in the current business data, it has built a substantial local following.
Why visit: Creative burgers, indulgent shakes, and a lively casual atmosphere.
3. Café Cusco
Café Cusco brings Peruvian cuisine to Springfield with a menu inspired by the flavors and traditions of Peru. It’s a great choice for diners looking for something beyond traditional American fare.
Why visit: Peruvian cuisine, distinctive flavors, and a unique dining experience.
4. FD’s Grillhouse
FD’s Grillhouse is a well-established Springfield favorite offering approachable American grill fare. Its strong review volume—more than 4,000 Google reviews in the current data—makes it one of the city’s prominent dining destinations.
Why visit: Classic American dishes, generous portions, and a comfortable atmosphere.
5. Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar offers a more upscale dining experience centered around steaks, wine, and polished service.
Why visit: Steakhouse dining, wine, and special-occasion meals.
6. Char Steakhouse & Oyster Bar
Char Steakhouse and Oyster Bar combines classic steakhouse dining with a seafood-focused selection. It’s an appealing choice when you’re looking for an elevated dinner experience in Springfield.
Why visit: Steaks, oysters, seafood, and upscale dining.
7. Palm & Paddle Grille
Palm & Paddle Grille brings a different flavor to Springfield’s restaurant scene with a menu that blends American and Caribbean influences.
Why visit: Island-inspired flavors and a relaxed dining experience.
8. Mama G’s Kitchen
Mama G’s Kitchen Downtown is a Springfield spot known for soul food and a welcoming, casual atmosphere.
Why visit: Comforting soul food and generous, flavorful dishes.
9. The Table
The Table Restaurant offers a neighborhood-style American dining experience with a focus on approachable food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Why visit: Casual dining and familiar American favorites.
10. La Roux Bistro
La Roux Bistro rounds out the list with a bistro-style experience on Commercial Street, giving diners another option for a more intimate and distinctive meal.
Why visit: Bistro dining and a more intimate atmosphere.
What Makes Springfield’s Food Scene Special?
Discovering the Best Restaurants in Springfield MO
When exploring Springfield’s culinary landscape, it’s essential to discover the best restaurants in Springfield MO that offer a mix of local flavors and unique dining experiences.
One of the best things about dining in Springfield is the variety. The city has more than 800 restaurants, with cuisines ranging from Asian and Peruvian to Lebanese, Cuban, Jamaican, Italian, Mexican, barbecue, steak, and more.
And then there’s Springfield-style cashew chicken, a local specialty created in Springfield and now served at restaurants throughout the city.
That variety makes Springfield an exciting place to eat—and gives locals and visitors plenty of reasons to keep exploring.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re craving a great burger, a perfectly prepared steak, international flavors, comfort food, or a cocktail with a view, Springfield has a restaurant for the occasion.
And if you’re looking for a place that combines scratch-made food, elevated comfort classics, craft cocktails, rooftop dining, and genuine hospitality, make Scratch & Co. part of your Springfield dining list.
