11 Must-Try Restaurants in Downtown Springfield, Missouri

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Welcome foodies and culinary enthusiasts to the best Restaurants in Downtown Springfield! A place where the aroma of fresh-baked bread, sizzling steaks, and exotic spices fills the air, and every bite is a journey to flavor town. Yes, we’re talking about the best restaurants in downtown Springfield, MO!

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds because this town is packed with some of the most delectable dining experiences you’ll ever have. 

From quaint cafes serving up the best coffee and pastries to fancy eateries whipping up mouthwatering creations, there’s something for everyone here. 

And we’re not just talking about any old run-of-the-mill restaurants; these are the crème de la crème, the top of the top, the elite of the elite!

Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy, romantic dinner for two or a wild night out with friends, these restaurants have you covered. 

From elegant ambiance to the most delicious dishes, each establishment has its own unique personality and style, ensuring that every dining experience is truly unforgettable.

So put on your stretchy pants, grab your forks and knives, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other. 

The best restaurants in downtown Springfield, MO, are waiting for you, and they’re serving up more than just a meal – they’re serving up memories!

My Top Three Picks of the Best Italian Restaurants In Downtown Springfield MO

Restaurant	Top Pick	Our Rating
The Order Food & Drink	Filet Mignon	5/5
Greek Belly	Gyro	4.5/5
Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar	Ribeye Steak	4.5/5

The 11 Best Restaurants in Downtown Springfield, MO

Civil Kitchen

107 Park Central Square, Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14175018456

This downtown Springfield restaurant has a prime spot and is the perfect stop for someplace casual with friends or family. In the spring and summer, you can even relax on the patio with a beautiful view of the Square.

You won’t find the usual “bar menu” on this menu. An urban twist gives it an unusual and healthy edge. This is not an ordinary burger place! 

Sandwiches, salads, and some unique entrées like Pork Belly Báhn Mi Tacos and Chicken & Waffles are available to eat.

In addition to traditional sides like French fries, you can get bourbon-glazed carrots, sweet potato Brulee, or flash-fried greens.

I ordered the Rangoon grilled cheese sandwich with roasted vegetables as a side. And the veggie burger was delicious, according to my friend’s reactions.

We also ordered various items and sampled a wide range of sides. It was breathtaking. The prices are low, and there is a large variety to please everyone.

This is a standout in an area overloaded with burger and fries joints! Give Civil Kitchen a try if you’re searching for an upscale casual dining experience in downtown Springfield.

Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes

209 E. Walnut St., Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14173195905

Black Sheep Burgers & Shakes is a well-known burger restaurant in downtown Springfield.

This burger shop’s compact area and industrial design generate a refined atmosphere that makes it feel more than just another burger joint.

If you’re looking for a place to dine in Springfield that serves great burgers (with a few twists), this is one of the most popular options.

When you come through the door and are greeted with a cheerful “hello” by the bartender, you know you’re in for a good time.

The interior is perfect for this downtown Springfield burger business. The exposed brick walls and open ceiling with reclaimed wood planks holding the warm lights make a comfortable setting for lunch or dinner.

To add to the joyful atmosphere, there is also live music and an extensive beer variety, including numerous craft beers.

They are famous for their 100% natural beef burgers made with custom-blended ingredients.

Everything is “a la carte,” so if you want fries, you must order them separately from your burger. 

We ordered the Parmesan truffle fries, which were beautiful. I experimented with many sauces. The fries are definitely worth sharing.

I then had the You’re Bacon My Heart burger, which was excellent. Because the burgers are so tall, you’ll need a huge mouth or squeeze it down to fit.

My friend decided to have dessert. We expected a conventional dessert, but it was a shake, which was fine and made perfect sense (given the place’s name). It was better than an Oreo snowstorm.

Our waiter was polite and provided some fantastic recommendations. She also checked in on us regularly, which improved our experience.

If you’re in the mood for a burger or a shake, I highly recommend you try this place!

Job Public House

319 E. Walnut St., Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14178311158

What I thought was a hole in the wall turned out to be one of my favorite places ever! The Job Public House has the most extensive whiskey collection in the area, 400+, if I’m not incorrect.

The most costly one they had was $400 per shot or something (based on what the barwoman said). Otherwise, it’s not an expensive spot for everyday beverages.

They offer bar food with a limited menu, but it was delicious. We ordered the pizza balls, loaded fries, and three varieties of Cubicles.

The pizza balls were massive deep-fried deliciousness bits, and the loaded fries were also delicious. The Cubicles come with two decent-sized sliders and fries.

We also ordered the American cheeseburger, the Club, and the Perfect Steak Sandwich. It was wonderful that the toppings were all served together, roughly chopped. It was a delicious steak!

The cheeseburger was delicious, albeit a little too salty, and the club was also excellent! The brown sugar sprinkle was a welcome surprise with the amazing fries!

It wasn’t too packed, and the personnel was extremely helpful and friendly! I didn’t know anyone because I wasn’t from here, but the regulars and employees were welcoming!

I had a terrific time and would suggest this place to everyone! And If you want to sit outside, there is also a spacious, comfortable outdoor area! If you’re in the area, this is a must-try!

The Order Food & Drink

305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14178515299

If you want to indulge in a great meal out, go to The Order, which is housed inside Hotel Vandivort.

This sophisticated but unpretentious restaurant serves an upmarket dinner menu and weekend brunch in downtown Springfield.

As you pass through the large “V” doors, The Order, a truly hidden gem, is located immediately to your left. The room is bright, and the mood is laid-back.

This restaurant has some deliciousness hidden behind its limited seating options. I wasn’t sure what we were getting ourselves into when we sat down to dine in the hotel restaurant, but they put out some serious food.

They have an incredible range of spirits that are reasonably priced. Some of their wines have high pricing overhead, which is good and understandable.

{image} filet mignon {image}

The cashew chicken skewers and duck croquettes were our first courses. We enjoyed the skewers and would order them again. The croquettes were good but not outstanding. 

Our first course was filet mignon with new potatoes, asparagus, and bearnaise sauce. A steak with pommes frites and white truffle mayo was the second course.

The steaks were perfectly cooked in both cases, and the pomme frites stood out above the new potatoes.

We ordered the lemon tartlet and the campfire Brulee for dessert. Both were flawless.

It’s not a big place, but it’s cozy. We arrived at five o’clock, and it began to fill up at six. The bar has a large selection, and the upper shelves are reached via a library ladder. It has a very relaxed environment.

We wore jeans, but we noticed many individuals dressed up or down. When you make a reservation, you will receive free valet parking.

This place offers exquisite dining with culinary innovation that you won’t find anywhere else in Springfield. I wholeheartedly recommend The Order!

Best of Luck Beer Hall

313-B S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14175229009

Best of Luck Beer Hall is a hidden gem behind an Indian buffet restaurant, which I had difficulty finding in the first place.

But once is found it, I was astonished by how unique their layout is, with arcade games, cornhole, long tables, and a projector.

It felt really different from the other bars nearby. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent.

It’s a uniquely American twist on a Scandinavian-style beer hall, with large communal tables and forty beers on tap.

Their beer menu is extensive, ranging from a $3 glass of Shiner Bock to a $12 IPA.

Additionally, board games are available for play with friends, and the turf field is available for reservation, where you may enjoy a game of corn hole/washers/bocce.

I chose from their Two Outta Three menu, which includes a tomato soup with fennel, a ham and provolone melt with rosemary, and a chicken Cobb salad.

As far as grilled cheese meals go, this one was pretty tasty. The tomato soup was hearty and subtly seasoned and had a pleasing orange color.

The sandwich wasn’t fancy, but the ham on it was grilled individually, giving the inside of the sandwich a satisfying crunch.

To go with them, I chose Punch #4, a bitter lemony concoction with grated fresh nutmeg on top. My lunch was delicious!

Overall, it’s a welcoming setting with beer priced to appeal to people of all ages! Not to add, you may order your beer in a 1-liter boot or mug! Definitely worth a visit to the downtown Springfield restaurant.

Greek Belly

320 E. Walnut St., Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14175973382

If you’re in the mood for some beautiful Greek food, you should stop by Greek Belly. They serve all of your favorite classic Greek foods, and they’re all delicious.

This downtown Springfield Greek restaurant draws influence from previous generations to create something unique and authentic. And it’s one of the coolest of Springfield’s restaurants.

The décor is inspired by the founders’ hometown, the Greek village Valtoner, and the menus include all of the Greek staples, making it one of Missouri’s most unusual restaurants.

You can expect foods like feta, tzatziki, hummus, and olives. The menu also has various delectable alternatives, such as the Artemis Feast, Falafel Platter, and Lamb Souvlaki Pita.

The Gyro is a definite must-order; it’s loaded with juicy meats and veggies and tastes divine.

Both my friend and I ordered pitas with tzatziki sauce. He got the shaved chicken meat from the chicken gyro. I ordered the souvlaki meat, which was grilled chunks of pork. The pitas were filled with fries, which added a wonderful crunch.

Their Moussaka is also delicious, and the Baklava is a delicious way to close your meal.

The atmosphere is really charming, with umbrellas dangling from the ceiling. If you enjoy Greek cuisine, you will enjoy it here. This is one of the top restaurants in Springfield, Missouri.

Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar

314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14178624444

Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar in Springfield, MO, is a true culinary adventure! This place is like stepping into a cozy, sophisticated steakhouse with a playful twist.

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with dim lighting, plush seating, and a roaring fireplace. The ambiance set the tone for what was sure to be an unforgettable meal.

When it comes to the menu, you’re in for a treat! Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar offers a diverse selection of dishes, from mouth-watering steaks to seafood and everything in between. 

But trust me, the steaks are where it’s at! They’re juicy, tender, and cooked to perfection, guaranteed to make your taste buds dance with joy.

I started with a glass of red wine from their extensive wine list; let me tell you, it was like liquid gold. 

It was the perfect pairing for my appetizer, the smoked salmon steak tartare, a delightful mixture of garlic aioli, horseradish mustard, Spanish caper sauce, and a pan-fried egg. It was a delicious start to an amazing meal.

For my entrée, I decided to go big and ordered the 14 oz. Ribeye steak, cooked to perfection and served with baked potatoes and sautéed vegetables. 

The steak was so juicy and flavorful that I practically melted in my seat with every bite. 

The baked potatoes were the perfect side, soft and packed with flavor, while the sautéed vegetables provided a fresh crunch.

Our server brought us a special treat at the end of our meal, a flourless chocolate cake with a berry sauce that rounded off a wonderful evening!

The service was excellent throughout the lunch. My server was pleasant, attentive, and well-versed in the food and wine list. They even provided a few excellent ideas that enhanced my overall meal experience.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for exceptional dining in one of the best Restaurants in Downtown Springfield, I highly recommend Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar. From the atmosphere to the food and service, everything was just amazing. I can’t wait to go back!

Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe

220 E. Walnut St., Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14178665500

This diner has a large following in the Springfield area due to its historical past as a fountain drugstore. It is located downtown, directly across from the Hotel Vandivort. It is a local breakfast favorite.

Dinner can sometimes consist of bacon, eggs, and bread. And sometimes, it’s better to eat at a mom-and-pop diner than at a fine dining establishment. If you wish to try both options, consider Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe.

Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe opened in 1942 and has been serving breakfast in Springfield at all hours of the day since then.

Several breakfast options include omelets, home cook skillet meals, pancakes, waffles, and signature favorites. The sweet potato hash browns are a local favorite.

My eye was caught by a healthy option, so I chose avocado toast. The avocado was spread on marbled rye bread and topped with tomato and feta cheese. It comes with two eggs, cooked to your liking.

You can also enjoy a traditional biscuit and gravy breakfast right before bed, allowing you to sleep well with a full tummy. 

The owners occasionally add a twist to the menu to spice up the breakfast meal, serving diners breakfast-style Mac ‘N’ Cheese.

My friend, who prefers breakfast foods, had the usual fare of bacon, eggs, potatoes, and bread.

It’s a fun little corner eatery where you can watch downtown Springfield wake up in the mornings while eating and drinking coffee!

Bruno’s Italian Restaurant

416 South Ave., Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14178660007

This place is incredible, serving some of the best spaghetti I’ve had since visiting Italy. Bruno’s food is well-known for being excellent, and the menu did not disappoint.

I started with the bruschetta, a delightful dish served on toasted bread with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic. I relished every bite since the flavors were so vibrant and fresh.

The waitress suggested we add cheese to our Pane All’Agio, an olive oil-based pizza we shared. We did, and it was stunning. I especially appreciated the added olives.

My friend ordered Gnocchi di Ricotta. That’s his go-to dish at an Italian restaurant, and he swears it’s the best he’s ever had. I agreed after giving it a shot. The spinach is incorporated into the gnocchi rather than added to the sauce. Marvelous!

I had the Seafood Ravioli with Lobster Bisque, which was excellent. Top-notch. Every dish was topped with a fresh spring of sage, parsley, rosemary, and basil, making them top with flavor.

I couldn’t leave Bruno’s without trying their legendary cannolis, and I’m very glad I did. The crunchy, flaky shells held a creamy, sweet ricotta filling, and the chocolate chips and powdered sugar were the finishing touches.

Our waiter was another highlight contributing to this wonderful dining experience.

He was attentive and helpful, and his personal touch made us feel like we were the only ones. He was a great waiter because of his expertise and skill.

In addition, the restaurant is housed in a historic building in the town’s older section and is a very charming, lovely setting. I highly recommend trying true Italian food at this place.

PaPPo’s Pizzeria & Pub Downtown Springfield

221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14178661111

PaPPo’s has a terrific beer variety and wonderful meals. Excellent pizza with both thin and thick crusts to split, and fairly priced for family enjoyment. The staff was attentive, the setting was nice, and the overall experience was amazing.

Try their famous housemade garlic bread with olive oil glazing, fresh minced garlic, and freshly shredded mozzarella cheese, topped with PaPPo’s seasonings and served with warm marinara sauce as an appetizer. It’s wonderful.

They also have breaded eggplant, freshly tossed salads, ravioli pillows with beef, mozzarella and tomato crostini, and various other creative appetizers.

They have delicious fresh oven-baked sandwiches. My personal favorite is the sandwich with Joan’s famous homemade Italian meatballs, marinara sauce, melted provolone, and Parmesan cheese.

Last but not least, there’s the pizza! The Pappo’s distinctive five-cheese housemade red sauce, a blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, fontina, Romano, and asiago cheeses, stands apart from the typical four-cheese pizza.

Both the chicken Caesar pizza and the Sicilian pizza are worth a try. You may even create your own pizza by selecting your favorite sauce and toppings!

A must-visit place if you want to experience the amazing Italian Restaurants in Downtown Springfield!

Druff’s

331 Park Central E. #101, Springfield, MO 65806, United States // +14177191719

Druff’s is a wild and whimsical dining adventure! This place is like walking into a funky, eclectic diner with a playful twist.

When you walk in, you’ll be met with brilliant colors, quirky decor, and a dynamic atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. The atmosphere is cheerful and playful, with a hint of vintage charm.

When it comes to the menu, you’re in for a treat! Druff’s offers a unique and diverse selection of dishes, from classic diner fare to innovative and unexpected flavors. 

But don’t let the playful atmosphere fool you; the food is seriously delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, a stack of pancakes, or a hearty breakfast skillet, they’ve got you covered.

But the real magic of Druff’s is in the details. Every feature of this restaurant, from the humorous menu items to the eccentric atmosphere, is intended to make you smile.

Despite having a menu based on bread and cheese, Druff’s does not provide your typical grilled cheese sandwich. Instead, you’ll find sandwiches with inventive ingredients that contrast beautifully.

Uncle Tatey, for example, is piled high with goat’s cheese, mildly spicy pulled pork, fresh strawberries, and a strawberry balsamic sauce spread on wheat bread.

The menu includes options like the quinoa salad with zesty lime, green onions, black beans, tomatoes, and olive oil that are suitable for people who are intolerant to gluten and dairy.

Last but not least, Druff’s service is excellent. The waitstaff was attentive and friendly. They will ensure that your eating experience is genuinely unforgettable.

So, if you’re looking for a playful and whimsical dining experience, Druff’s is the place to be!

FAQ: Restaurants in Downtown Springfield

What kind of restaurants can I find in downtown Springfield, MO?

You can find many restaurants in downtown Springfield, MO, including American, Italian, Mexican, Asian, and more. There are also many cafes, coffee shops, and fine dining establishments.

Can I find restaurants that are open late in downtown Springfield MO?

Yes, several restaurants in downtown Springfield are open late, and some even offer 24-hour dining options.

Are there any food festivals or events in Springfield, MO?

Yes, Springfield, MO, hosts several food festivals and events throughout the year, offering an opportunity to sample various delicious dishes and enjoy live entertainment.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at restaurants in downtown Springfield?

Yes, many restaurants in downtown Springfield offer vegetarian and vegan options. Whether you are looking for plant-based entrees, sides, or appetizers, there is something for everyone.

Conclusion: Restaurants in Downtown Springfield

And there you have it, folks! A culinary journey through the top eleven best restaurants in downtown Springfield, MO, an array of flavors, aromas, and experiences that are sure to leave you feeling satisfied in your belly and soul.

From sizzling steaks to exotic spices, these restaurants have it all and are eager to share their culinary creations with you. 

Take some time for yourself, and enjoy a night out with friends or a fun lunch with family. No matter what you choose, you’ll be in for a feast of flavors, sights, and memories you’ll never forget.

Remember, food is not just sustenance, it’s an experience, and these eleven restaurants are ready to offer you the experience of a lifetime. So gather your squad, put on your best outfits, and get ready to dig in!

These eleven best restaurants in downtown Springfield, MO, are waiting for you, and they’re bringing their A-game with delicious dishes and delightful experiences that are sure to make your taste buds dance and your heart sing. 

So go ahead, indulge, and live life to the fullest, because you only live once, and you might as well do it with a full belly and a smile on your face.

So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring these amazing restaurants and all they have to offer! Bon appétit, foodies!

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