Springfield, Missouri may be known for its vibrant food scene and Midwest hospitality, but tucked among its bustling eateries are hidden gems that bring the whimsical world of cottagecore to life. From quaint cafés with vintage china to farm-to-table spots, this guide explores the most enchanting places in Springfield where you can dine like you're living in a storybook.
Sleepy Opossum
This plant-based cafe serves up comfort foods using fresh ingredients from local farms and known best for their expansive breakfast menu and daily cake specials.
Why it’s cottagecore: Sleepy Opossum is perfect for any animal lovers with their whimsical dishes and eclectic decor. Nestled on the corner of Cherry and Pickwick street and filled with sunny windows, local art, and hanging greenery, this cafe will brighten your mood and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Address: 1423 E. Cherry St. Suite 101, Springfield
Farmers Gastropub
This British-American gastropub has a wide selection of sandwiches, seafood, and brunch fare as well as craft beer on tap.
Why it’s cottagecore: The indoor vibe of this restaurant is perfect for a chilly day, with warm-toned lighting and a crackling fireplace. Their food is flavorful, creative, and served up fresh every day.
Address: 2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield
Tea Bar & Bites
This tea room specializes in light cafe fare like soup and sandwiches and a large menu of hot teas.
Why it’s cottagecore: Tea Bar and Bites combines delicious bites with their charming sunny setting, including an open courtyard area and intimate inside seating.
Address: 621 S Pickwick Ave, Springfield
The Ozark Mill Restaurant
This riverfront farm-forward restaurant offers lunch and dinner with Southern-inspired dishes presented with a modern twist.
Why it’s cottagecore: Along with the beautiful view of the river and warm rustic interior, the Ozark Mill’s menu highlights pasta and fire-baked grain mill pizzas, with many ingredients sourced directly from the Finley Farm gardens. This is the perfect gathering spot for groups or a peaceful getaway.
Address: 802 Finley Farms Ln, Ozark, MO
The Aviary
This restaurant serves up French-inspired fare like crepes, steaks, seafood, and appetizers and cocktails, all made from scratch and locally-sourced ingredients.
Why it’s cottagecore: You’ll love the warm and vintage accents in this European atmosphere. Nestled right in the upscale and rustic Farmer’s Park, this spot will transport you to the French countryside without having to leave the city.
Address: 2144 E Republic Rd, Springfield
Cherry Picker Package X Fare
This laid-back cafe offers coffee, beer, and wine, as well as bite-sized eats like breakfast bowls and small appetizer plates.
Why it’s cottagecore: Cherry Picker’s cozy indoor seating and outside red-bricked patio, strung with fairy lights and decorated with foliage, makes for the perfect nook to unwind or catch up with friends and grab a quick snack.
Address: 601 S Pickwick Ave, Springfield
Dogwood Canyon’s Mill Canyon Grill
This casual eatery offers an Ozarks-inspired menu with dishes like bison burgers, fried catfish, elk sausage soup, and Dogwood Canyon chili.
Why it’s cottagecore: This spot offers a spectacular view of the cascading Indian Cliff waterfalls, along with a wooden rustic interior and large wood-burning fireplace.
Address: 2038 State Hwy 86, Lampe, MO
Bonus: Neighbor’s Mill
This made-from-scratch bakery brings a large variety of hand-crafted bread, pastries, and desserts in a delicious menu featuring sandwiches, soups, and salads.
Why it’s cottagecore: Nature’s Mill stays true to its name by milling their wheat on-site, giving you the freshest baked goods possible. Their picturesque dishes are perfect for a cozy lunch or take-home wholesome goodness.
Address: 1435 E. Independence St. 110, Springfield
