Where to Eat Along Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri

2026 marks the Centennial of Route 66, so let’s put the pedal to the metal and check out a handful of spots to eat along Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri!

Druff’s Diner

If you are on the hunt for a classic bar-top, open-kitchen spot to grab some crispy, toasted sandwiches, look no further than Druff’s Diner in downtown Springfield, Missouri! The moment you walk through the doors, you are greeted by the staff as they man the flat-top grill or make waffles at the waffle iron.

The menu features an assortment of delicious grilled cheese sandwiches. If you are craving breakfast, they know exactly what you need! The Backwoods sandwich features cream cheese, pepper jack, sweet jalapeño jam, eggs, and chicken, all on toasted sourdough.

Maybe you're in the mood for lunch instead, then they have you covered there, too! The Vegan Melt uses locally made Jake’s Vegan burgers, topped with sweet onions and house-made vegan Thousand Island dressing on perfectly grilled sourdough. They also serve creamy tomato soup, crisp salads, and savory biscuits and gravy.

Address: 331 Park Central E., Springfield

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The European

Say you’re cruising Route 66 and craving sweet pastries, savory salads, hot lattes, and a cozy, relaxing vibe. The European is where you want to be. Let’s start with breakfast, because the moment you walk in, you are face-to-face with a glass case filled with wonderful croissants, lemon tarts, and more sweets that look like works of art!

They have some of your favorites, like eggs Benedict, bacon, egg and cheese sandwiches, and a cacio e pepe scramble bowl that is life-changing! If you are feeling a little on the lighter side, the kale Caesar salad is filled with romaine and kale, then topped with cheese, avocado, and croutons. Don’t forget to grab a cappuccino or cortado to pair with all your goodies!

Address: 105 Park Central Square, Springfield

Civil Kitchen

The weather is getting nicer, and that means patio season! There is no better spot to grab a chair, enjoy some tasty food, and take in the sights and sounds of downtown Springfield than Civil Kitchen.

Starting with appetizers, the Seafood Beignets are a local favorite. Crispy beignets are filled with a mixture of cream cheese, shrimp, white fish, and red onion. They are hand-battered, fried until golden brown, and served with honey habanero and blueberry ketchup!

They also have the classic Chicken and Waffles, which can be drizzled with not just one syrup, but four different syrups! You can smother those crispy chicken tenders and buttery waffles in maple-bourbon syrup, honey-habanero syrup, or even cinnamon-vanilla syrup!

Address: 107 Park Central Square, Springfield

Related Post: 10 Things to Do in Downtown Springfield, MO

College Street Café

It wouldn’t be a perfect drive down Route 66 without stopping at College Street Café for a homestyle breakfast or lunch! I am talking about classic breakfast dishes like pancakes, omelets, and, of course, biscuits and gravy. If you are really hungry, order the golden-brown country-fried steak and hash browns!

They also have early-bird specials available from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. for under $10. If lunch is calling your name, order a juicy burger, some fried okra, or even meatloaf and open-faced roast beef. Grab a seat at the counter, order some tasty grub, and enjoy the nostalgia of College Street Café!

Address: 1622 W. College St., Springfield

Joe’s Route 66 Diner

Let’s step outside the city limits of Springfield, Missouri, and head over to the neighboring town of Strafford. Strafford has a hidden gem right on Route 66 that deserves your full attention. I'm talking about Joe’s Route 66 Diner!

Joe’s has been smashing patties, battering onion rings, and mixing milkshakes since 1972, and they show no signs of stopping anytime soon! They have double cheeseburgers stacked with fresh veggies, crispy pork tenderloin sandwiches, and famous thin-sliced, hand-battered onion rings.

Save room for dessert, because they have shakes and malts in flavors like butterscotch, pineapple, hot fudge, and strawberry that you absolutely must try!

Address: 201 E. Chestnut St., Strafford