When in Springfield, eating out is more than a way to fuel the body; it’s an event. That’s especially true at some of the city’s unique dining establishments where charm, character, history and great food are the ingredients that make up a recipe for fun family memories.
Casper's Diner
Once you’ve tried out the newest, one that’s not so new should be on your must-see list. With a beginning in 1909, Casper’s is purported to be the oldest restaurant in Springfield and is definitely one of the city’s funkiest. The walls are covered with posters, album covers and artwork that will have you gawking while you chow down on hamburgers, secret-recipe chili and other items ordered from a handwritten menu on the wall.
The place is tiny, which adds to its ambiance. When it’s crowded - and it usually is - strangers share their tables with strangers, making new friends while they enjoy their overflowing bowls of chili.
Address: 937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield
Leong's Asian Diner
While Casper’s is a Springfield tradition, the next dining spot on the list is where you’ll find Springfield’s signature dish. Springfield-Style Cashew Chicken is available at restaurants throughout the city but if you want the authentic recipe, check out Leong’s Asian Diner, owned by the family that came up with the recipe of fried chicken chunks covered in oyster sauce, cashews and green onions.
The recipe got its start at Leong’s Tea House in 1963 when the late David Leong was trying to find a dish he could serve at his Chinese restaurant that would be accepted by the Springfield crowd. Little did he know that nearly 60 years later, his recipe would be a Springfield icon and versions of it would be served on menus across the country.
Leong’s Asian Diner closed in 1997 but the dish remained popular. In 2010, David Leong and his sons opened Leong’s Asian Diner to continue the family tradition.
Address: 1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield
Pineapple Whip
During the summer, locals head to the three designated Pineapple Whip shops across Springfield to get their taste of a summertime favorite treat. With flavors such as classic pineapple, strawberry-kiwi, banana-pomegranate, mango-peach, grape and orange, you won't have a hard time deciding what's for dessert.
Address: Multiple Locations
Lambert's Cafe
Another popular dining experience is found just south of Springfield at Lambert’s Cafe. Known as the “home of throwed rolls,” Lambert’s serves a full menu of country cookin’ and each table gets “pass-arounds” that are served tableside, such as fried taters and onions, black-eyed peas and fried okra.
Best of all, though, are the dinner rolls. Besides tasting like the rolls grandma used to make, the bread is tossed to diners eager to try their hand at catching the buttery, fluffy rolls before devouring them with the rest of their meal.
Address: 1800 W. State Hwy J., Ozark
Askinosie Chocolate
If you smell chocolate wafting through the air, most likely you’re getting a whiff of Springfield’s famous small batch bean-to-bar chocolate manufacturer, Askinosie Chocolate. Tour the inside to see how dark chocolate bars are made from cocoa beans sourced directly from farmers around the world. It’ll be hard to resist taking home one of their dozens of chocolate bar flavors.
Address: 514 E. Commercial St., Springfield
Black Sheep Burgers
Black Sheep Burgers is a must-visit for burger lovers galore. Step inside for burgers piled high with an array of toppings such as onion rings, panko-crusted portabella mushrooms, truffle mayo, short ribs slow-cooked in Dr Pepper and other savory toppings. Fry lovers are also in for a treat, as Black Sheep is known for a delicious selection of fries and dipping sauces to go with them. After your meal, consider ending it with one of many boozy milkshakes on the menu.
Address: Multiple Locations
Springfield Brewing Company
For locally brewed beer, Springfield Brewing Company is the bar and grill that reminds you of home. Not only will you get to try some delicious craft beer, but you'll also find the menu topped with some of the best mac and cheese you'll ever have in your life. On Friday nights, your ears will be in for a treat with different musicians gracing the stage with live music.
Address: 305 S. Market Ave., Springfield
Aviary By Lavender Falls
The common debate eating at Aviary is whether to go for sweet or savory. Aviary by Lavender Falls features an assortment of crepes such as the Funky Monkey, a sweet crepe made with your choice of blueberries, strawberries and bananas bundled with whipped cream and Nutella. A popular savory option includes The Farmer made with scrambled eggs and cheddar jack served with your choice of ham, applewood smoked bacon or sausage. Many of the crepes come with the option of a side, and you’re doing brunch wrong if you don’t order a side of Pomme Frites with house garlic aioli. Aviary also boasts an elaborate cocktail and wine menu, and no brunch is ever complete without mimosas.
Address: 2144 E. Republic Road, Springfield
Andy's Frozen Custard
Andy’s Frozen Custard is a true Springfield icon, serving up sweet traditions since 1986. Known for its rich, creamy custard and endless mix-ins, Andy’s has become the go-to spot for late-night treats, seasonal favorites, and classic concretes. For locals and visitors alike, no trip to Springfield is complete without a stop at Andy’s—it’s more than dessert, it’s an Ozarks tradition.
Address: Multiple Locations
Pizza House
Pizza House has been a Springfield staple since 1958, making it one of the city’s most iconic dining spots. Known for its ultra-thin, crispy crust and old-school charm, this family-owned pizzeria has been serving up pies that locals and visitors crave for generations. It’s the kind of place where tradition meets flavor, and every slice comes with a side of nostalgia.
Address: 312 E. Commercial St., Springfield
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