Pasta, pizza, and more—Springfield and the surrounding area boast an impressive array of Italian restaurants. From fresh, homemade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, let’s explore some amazing local spots where you can enjoy a true taste of Italy right here in the Springfield area.
Avanzare Italian Dining
Looking for the perfect date night dinner? Avanzare is your spot! From the moment you step in, the atmosphere takes your breath away, and the delicious aromas will leave you hungry for more. Start with the Mussel Al Forno—baked mussels in a garlic wine sauce with marinara. For the main course, indulge in the Short Rib Ravioli, topped with a rich mushroom marsala sauce and a touch of cream. Savory, satisfying, and a must-try when you're in town!
Address: 3240 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield
Nonna’s Italian Café
When the owner of a top Italian restaurant in downtown Springfield spends a lot of time in Italy, you know you're in for something special! Nonna’s menu perfectly blends American Italian and authentic Italian flavors. Start with the Rigatoni Arrabbiata, made with imported rigatoni and topped with a slightly spicy sauce of Italian tomatoes. Next, dive into the American Italian side with Deep-Fried Lasagna—crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb-coated lasagna filled with ricotta, mozzarella, meat sauce, and fresh herbs, served with marinara and Alfredo sauces. Every bite is crispy, cheesy, and full of rich meat flavor.
Address: 306 South Ave., Springfield
Bambinos Café
I’ve been a fan of Bambino’s for more years than I can count, from their spot on Delmar to the café on Battlefield Road, both known for their amazing Italian dishes. My go-to starter is always the bruschetta—chunky tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and garlic, served with perfectly toasted garlic bread. They’re also famous for their house salad, which is widely regarded as the best in the area. The perfect mix of greens, house dressing, Parmesan, onions, red peppers, and sliced cucumber. Pair any of these with The Bambino—Cavatelli with meat sauce and Provel cheese—for the perfect meal!
Address: 2810 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield & 405 W. Walnut St., Springfield
Bruno’s Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar
Who doesn’t love stepping into their favorite Italian spot and seeing a crackling wood-fired oven? At Bruno’s, the staff hand-stretch their pizza dough and cook it in the oven to perfection, creating amazing Italian pizza. Try the Prosciutto & Arugula pizza, topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, fresh arugula, prosciutto, and creamy burrata. The salty prosciutto and fresh arugula pair beautifully with the rich, creamy burrata in the center. And don’t miss the Bolognese—a savory, rich blend of beef and pork Bolognese with penne and Parmesan Reggiano.
Address: 416 S. Ave., Springfield
Gilardi’s Ristorante
Gilaridi’s is a Springfield favorite, known for its fresh, authentic Italian cuisine. With on-site gardens growing seasonal vegetables and herbs, they incorporate these ingredients into the beloved dishes that locals adore. From tortellini to seafood pasta, their menu offers a variety of options, plus daily specials like the fish of the day or the soup of the day—perfect for trying something new with every visit. And don’t forget to save room for dessert—the tiramisu is a must-try!
Address: 820 E. Walnut St., Springfield
Nearly Famous Deli & Pasta House
Looking for a place that makes you feel like family the moment you step in? Nearly Famous Deli is the spot! Owner Nancy Miller has created a cozy atmosphere while serving up some fantastic food. The menu offers a little bit of everything, from spinach lasagna and spaghetti with meatballs to the Very Famous Salad. This signature salad features fresh-cut romaine and green leaf lettuce, tossed in their Nearly Famous dressing, and topped with artichokes, pimientos, and sliced red onion. Simple, fresh, and absolutely delicious!
Address: 2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield
Nicola’s Ristorante
Nicola Gilardi has built quite a reputation in the Springfield-area, from creating Gilardi’s in downtown Springfield to now running Ristorante Nicola’s and MASO Pizza Bar! Nicola’s offers a fantastic selection, including Four Cheese Tortellini, Penne Alla Vodka, and even roasted duck. Be sure to kick off your meal with a delicious appetizer, like shrimp cocktail, meatballs, or bruschetta. Whether it’s for a special occasion, a date night, or just treating yourself, Nicola’s is the perfect place for a memorable meal!
Address: 3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield
Piccolo Contemporary Italian
If you find yourself south of Springfield in Nixa, make sure to stop by Piccolo Contemporary Italian! Founded by Steve and Cassie D’Arpino as a spinoff of Steve’s parents’ D’Arpino’s Italian Café, Piccolo offers a menu full of your Italian favorites, plus a fantastic dessert selection. The Chicken Parm is a top pick—an enormous piece of fried chicken topped with their famous marinara and melted mozzarella, easily enough for two meals! And don’t miss the Italian Nachos—wonton chips loaded with Alfredo sauce, grilled chicken, tomatoes, basil, pepperoncini, and a balsamic reduction drizzle!
Address: 107 West Aldersgate Dr., Nixa
Salvatore’s Fresh Ristorante Italiano
Step into Salvatore’s and you’ll immediately notice their fresh, house-made pasta! The welcoming atmosphere and open kitchen let you watch the chefs craft your meal right before your eyes. One of my favorites is the chicken piccata, with its vibrant lemon flavor and tangy capers. The pan-fried chicken is topped with a lemon piccata sauce and capers, served on a bed of angel hair pasta. Plus, they offer gluten-free pasta and zucchini noodles for any of their pasta dishes!
Address: 1932 W. Retail Ln., Ozark
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