This is part two of eating my way down Historic Commercial Street in Springfield, Missouri. If you haven't read part 1, you can do so here. So, without further ado, let’s dig in!
Café Cusco
Serving various Peruvian dishes, I have broadened my taste buds’ horizons by eating my way through Cafe Cusco’s dishes! There is no better way to start your visit than with the Leche de Tigre. A shot glass of ceviche juice and hot sauce, with a chilled shrimp. Then, move your way into the always-perfect Chicharron plate with seasoned pork, black beans, and garlic rice. They also offer a full vegan menu, with jackfruit nachos, sweet potato noodle stir fry, and even a spicy rocoto pasta. Whatever dish you decide on, you know it will be delicious!
Address: 234 E. Commercial St., Springfield
Big Momma’s Coffee & Espresso Bar
Indulge in the delights of Big Momma’s—a C-Street favorite boasting an extensive menu brimming with tempting treats. While renowned for its delectable coffee, there’s so much more to savor! The options are endless, from hearty soups to mouthwatering sandwiches and sensational salads. And don’t miss out on their breakfast menu, featuring a variety of muffins, scones, burritos, and oatmeal. Treat yourself to the signature Momma’s Monster, loaded with turkey, ham, roast beef, and veggies, paired perfectly with an Old 66. Make your way to Big Momma’s and relish in the culinary bliss!
Address: 217 E. Commercial St., Springfield
Pizza House
Pizza House has been serving those thin-crust pizza since 1958, and there are no signs of stopping. Each of those square bites of pizza, covered in cheese and marinara and littered with the toppings of your choice, has the perfect crisp bit! Add the deluxe salad and you have yourself a lunch worth writing about. From the friendly staff to the cozy dining room, with decorations that could tell a story, Pizza House continues to reign supreme for pizza on C-Street.
Address: 312 E. Commercial St., Springfield
Basilico Italian Cafe
Every historic stretch of roads must have a staple Italian restaurant on it. Basilico is your one-stop shop for all your salad, soup, sandwiches, and pasta! Start your visit with fried beef ravioli or the antipasto salad while enjoying a bread basket with olive oil and parmesan cheese. Don’t get too full just yet because their main courses are divine! Baked Mostaccioli, Spinach lasagna, cheese ravioli, and even shrimp scampi are all dishes that must try. Plus, they also offer gluten-free spaghetti if you have an intolerance to gluten.
Address: 306 E. Commercial St., Springfield
Ms. Gilmore’s
Indulge in a diverse selection of teas at Gilmore’s Tea Room. Here, hospitality reigns supreme, ensuring your experience is nothing short of delightful. Kickstart your visit with the High Tea for Two, featuring a lovely array of treats, including chicken salad, chive cream cheese, and cucumber on a mini croissant, complemented by a freshly baked muffin, decadent dessert, fresh fruit, and a pot of hot tea for two. Don’t miss out on Gilmore’s renowned Kentwood Arms Strawberry soup—a refreshing blend of strawberries and cream, perfect for the approaching warmer days. Pair it with any delectable sandwich and choose from their extensive tea collection that boasts 13 distinct varieties.
Address: 211 E. Commercial St., Springfield
La Habana Vieja
If you like your cuisine to be bold, rich, and flavorful, then La Habana Vieja is where you need to be. Commercial Street’s only Cuban restaurant serves dishes that pack a punch in the flavor department and look good. From the always delicious Cuban sandwich, filled with tender pork, then sliced pickles and mustard, to the crispy fried pork smothered in a Sorrel gastrique, known as the Masas De Cerdo, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Order the house-cut fries with a side of their homemade ketchup.
Address: 220 E. Commercial St., Springfield
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