Springfield is a wonderland of different cuisines that will woo your heart.
They offer every craving you might have thanks to their wide range of dishes, famous around the beautiful city of Illinois.
But have you ever wondered what good restaurants to choose from?
As a long-time traveler, writer, and certified foodie parent, I’ve visited several restos in the area.
I even researched each establishment before my visit.
All this is just to provide you with an authentic list of the best restaurants in Springfield.
In this article, you’ll have access to first-hand details, comparisons, and tips you can use for your Springfield visit.
So make sure to read until the end and take some notes.
Best Restaurants in Springfield, IL Compared
Springfield got you covered whether you’re looking for a quick snack, fine dining, or exotic meal.
Editor’s Choice
Mariah’s Steakhouse and Pasta
Mariah’s Steakhouse and Pasta is one of the few local restaurants featuring a log-cabin style.
- Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
- Service: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
#2nd Best Choice
Café Moxo
Café Moxo, established in 2007, has been the go-to breakfast place for locals and tourists in Springfield.
- Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
- Service: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: 4.5/5
- Affordability: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 4.5/5
#3rd Best Choice
Charlie Parker’s Diner
Charlie Parker’s Diner has been part of the Springfield culinary scene for about three decades since its opening in the 1990s.
- Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
- Service: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: 5/5
- Affordability: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
Here are the top 15 Springfield restaurants open right now.
1. Mariah’s Steakhouse and Pasta (Editor’s Choice)
3317 Robbins Rd
Springfield, IL 62704
(217) 793-1900
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Mariah’s Steakhouse and Pasta is one of the few local restaurants featuring a log-cabin style.
It opened in 2003 in an area about half a mile away from the Southwest Plaza shopping mall.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
- Service: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
Pros
- Mouthwatering dishes with a wide range of options
- Superior customer service
Cons
- They’re a bit pricey compared to others
Why It Made The List
With a two-decade experience, this place has emerged as one of the best-rated restaurants in Springfield.
Its specialty in turning Black Angus steaks into a delicious dish has impressed a lot of people so you must not miss the chance to taste it for yourself, too.
What’s more, this eatery is also among the best birthday restaurants in Springfield that can take in up to 200 guests.
Mariah’s staff can also customize your experience based on your demands.
Popular Dishes to Try
Tantalize your taste buds with the fan-favorite fried zucchini sticks stuffed with parmesan cheese.
Seafood lovers would like to start with drunken mussels with white wine, too.
Order Mariah’s Trio pasta that has chicken parmesan, manicotti, and fettuccine alfredo.
It’s best eaten with the 14 oz ribeye or New York steak to taste some of the best offerings in this restaurant.
Check out the available drinks in the bar to complete your dinner.
2. Café Moxo
411 E Adams
Springfield, IL 62701
(217) 788-8084
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Café Moxo, established in 2007, has been the go-to breakfast place for locals and tourists in Springfield.
It’s a local dining place built within a few blocks away from the Old State Capitol.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
- Service: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: 4.5/5
- Affordability: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 4.5/5
Pros
- Delectable and varying deli sandwiches
- They offer healthy, vegan options
Cons
- Their menu is limited
Why It Made The List
Do you want to start your historical tour early?
Café Moxo is one of the restaurants near you where you can eat before checking out top attractions like the Lincoln Home and the Elijah Iles House.
Both are accessible through a 10-minute walk.
What you’ll love the most about this place is that it offers very affordable food options for you.
Popular Dishes to Try
Try the ever-famous Moxo baked eggs that come with a hash brown casserole and bacon cheddar biscuit.
You’ll also like the meaty burrito and sandwich offered in this amazing local diner.
Pair it with a hearty bowl of Turkey Cranberry Waldorf soup that’s great for those who need gluten-free food.
Never skip the popular homemade pot pies you’ll definitely like.
Order an additional chocolate chip cookie, rice crispy, bagel, and blueberry muffin from the bakery so that you can munch on something while walking around the city.
3. Charlie Parker’s Diner
700 North St
Springfield, IL 62704
(217) 241-2104
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Charlie Parker’s Diner has been part of the Springfield culinary scene for about three decades since its opening in the 1990s.
It was featured in a television show hosted by Guy Fieri in 2008.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
- Service: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: 5/5
- Affordability: 4.5/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
Pros
- Delicious classic American food
- Nostalgic design and ambiance
Cons
- Small establishment’s space
Why It Made The List
Without a doubt, this diner counts as one of the top Springfield restaurants due to its numerous awards over the past years.
Aside from the food, you’ll love the interior design of this place if you’re a retro fan.
Its fast-casual style also makes it very inviting for many.
It serves the best food in Springfield—the horseshoe sandwich—that’s always been their top seller.
Popular Dishes to Try
Savor Charlie’s Famous Horseshoes to tick off one of your food adventure goals in Springfield.
Choose your favorite meat from ham, bacon, turkey, chicken, pork, and many others for a fulfilling brunch.
Make sure to try the famous giant 16″ pancake as well.
Those coming for lunch must not skip the favorite chicken sandwich that patrons frequently order.
It’s best paired with their cold iced tea.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Springfield IL
Also See:
Best Restaurants in Schaumburg
Peoria Restaurants
Best Restaurants in Pontiac
4. Engrained Brewery and Restaurant
1120 W Lincolnshire Blvd
Springfield, IL 62711
(217) 546-3054
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Opened in 2013, Engrained Brewery and Restaurant stands as one of the premier taverns in Springfield.
It has an on-site microbrewery that explains the freshness of its craft beers.
Why It Made The List
Its delicious and varied food makes Engrained Brewery and Restaurant an excellent alternative for Café Moxo and Charlie Parker’s Diner.
Engrained counts as one of the most popular restaurants to try for guests looking for a place to hang out with friends.
It’s perfect if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the downtown area which is about five miles away.
In addition, this casual contemporary restaurant features farm-to-table offerings that are great for health-conscious individuals.
Such a system also helps local food producers in the area.
Popular Dishes to Try
Start your meal with loaded potato cakes oozing with pepper jack cheese sauce and sweet chili barbecue.
Add a seasonal harvest salad to savor fresh greens and fruits.
Taste the restaurant’s unique take on the famous horseshoe to discover the formulations of this iconic sandwich.
Of course, you’d also love the Engrained Comfort Bowl that features a pork barbecue shoulder, chipotle-fried potatoes, sweet corn, scallions, and fresh sauce.
Pair your meal with Brombier Blackberry Lager that’s appealing especially if you love blackberry puree.
Check out the new beers on tap, too!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites, Springfield SW
5. D’Arcy’s Pint
661 W Stanford Ave
Springfield, IL 62704
(217) 492-8800
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An Irish pub, D’Arcy’s Pint boasts a diverse menu that features various dishes from Ireland and American cuisine.
It has been serving great food in the Springfield area since 1998.
Why It Made The List
D’Arcy’s Pint has been renowned as one of the good restaurants in Springfield for more than two decades.
It’s where locals typically stay when they need to wind down after a long day.
Plus, you’ll also be impressed by the impeccable service they provide in this brewpub.
It would make you feel very comfortable even when it is your first time stepping foot into the city.
Popular Dishes to Try
Order the Irish cheesesteak horseshoe to taste tender sirloin with onions, mushroom, peppers, and melted cheese.
Another fan-favorite is the Grilled Chicken Caprese Club that features mozzarella, lettuce, tomato, bacon, and basil mayo on top of a ciabatta bun.
Sip the classic beers or special cocktails like the strawberry orange mimosa for a refreshing drink.
Trust me, this will surely take away your exhaustion from the day.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Springfield, IL
Also See:
Places to Eat in Sheridan
Restaurants in Sycamore
Best Restaurants in Wheeling
6. Maldaner’s Restaurant
222 S 6th St
Springfield, IL 62701
(217) 522-4313
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Maldaner’s Restaurant and Catering, established in 1884, stands out as the first dining business founded at the heart of Springfield.
It occupies a location on Route 66 for more than a century.
Why It Made The List
Aside from being a classic, Maldaner’s Restaurant can help you discover how awesome fine dining in Springfield can be.
It also uses local and regional ingredients to help you appreciate the Midwest cuisine even more.
All food items are artistically laid out to please your eyes.
With its historical mark, this place also sets itself as one of the best restaurants downtown you shouldn’t miss.
Popular Dishes to Try
Have a French onion soup and warm goat cheese salad to prepare your appetite for the hearty main course.
Order the Beef Wellington, the restaurant’s special offering, that comes with mashed potatoes and vegetables on the side.
It might become one of your favorites.
Those who opt for a lighter meal can avail themselves of the penne noodles that have thick meat sauce.
End your meal with a homemade French vanilla ice cream for a sweet taste.
With all these, you’ll surely enjoy your stay in one of the best dinner places in Springfield.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Carpenter Street Hotel
7. Obed and Isaac’s Microbrewery and Eatery
500 S 6th St
Springfield, IL 62701
(217) 670-0627
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Set on an Italian mansion, Obed and Isaac’s is one of the most famous eateries in the downtown area.
It is located directly across the historic home of former US President Abraham Lincoln.
Why It Made The List
Springfield eats became popular not only for their sumptuous food offerings but also for their impressive look.
Obed and Isaac’s, in particular, mesmerize the people for their swanky interiors.
It also has a spacious patio where you can also hang out with your friends.
So, if you’re still looking for answers on where to eat in Springfield, consider visiting Obed and Isaac’s.
You can expect nothing less than the best lunch in Springfield when you come here.
Popular Dishes to Try
Try the beer and whiskey burger to discover a unique spin away from the typical flavors.
Angus beef lovers can order the pub burger instead to stick to the classic favorites.
Pair it with the beer cheese soup to maximize the one-of-a-kind offerings in this restaurant.
Order Obed’s Pride Amber Ale, which has a 5.2% ABV, if you like the taste of light caramel and toffee.
American Wheat is another must-try for those who want a lighter drink.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: President Abraham Lincoln – A Doubletree by Hilton Hotel
8. Chesapeake Seafood House
3045 Clearlake Ave
Springfield, IL 62702
(217) 522-5220
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Since 1983, the Chesapeake Seafood House has been serving fresh seafood from all over the world.
It is set on the John McGredy Mansion located near the Bergen Golf Course.
Why It Made The List
Classic restaurants like the Chesapeake Seafood House are hard to surpass in ranking the best places to eat in Springfield.
It has been an icon for almost four decades so you must try it out.
Many guests also appreciate the generous serving provided in this restaurant that makes the food worthy of its price.
Popular Dishes to Try
Avail yourself of the slightly marinated salmon broiled in lemon butter for a sumptuous taste.
Add a Captain’s Platter to get lobster tail, shrimps, clams, fish fillet, and onion rings for an all-in seafood dining experience.
Aside from seafood, this restaurant is also known for its savory steak so it would be great to try the applewood bacon-wrapped filet mignon.
Order a Robert Mondavi Woodbridge – Cabernet Sauvignon to complete a classy experience.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ramada by Wyndham Springfield North
9. Saputo’s
801 E Monroe St
Springfield, IL 62701
(217) 544-2523
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Saputo serves the most outstanding homemade Italian cuisine and catering services in Springfield.
Why It Made The List
It made the list thanks to its delicious and original recipes that melt in one’s mouth.
Their Italian cuisine will allow you to feel the culture and beauty of Europe’s culinary scene.
One bite, and you’ll know that you’ve found a hidden food gem in Springfield.
Not only that, but their rich and deep-rooted history will give moms like me the assurance we need for our kids’ safety.
That said, I highly recommend visiting Saputo’s.
Popular Dishes to Try
Their most popular dish is their Baked Lasagna which gives a zesty flavor.
You’ll find yourself smiling like I did while eating their dishes.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Clearlake Plaza
10. Cozy Dog Drive In
2935 S 6th St
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 525-1992
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Cozy Dog Drive In is another classic bungalow-type diner built on Route 66 in 1949.
It helped popularize the concept of “cozy dogs” launched by the Lake Springfield Beach House in 1946.
Why It Made The List
Kids can be picky eaters but they will surely love the offerings in this fast-casual eatery.
As a family-owned property, Cozy Dog Drive caters to the needs of every member of the family no matter the age.
Both the young and the young-at-heart will find their favorites here.
Plus, this is one of the casual spots to eat that can be an attraction in itself due to its long history.
Popular Dishes to Try
Order the cozy basket to share four cozy dogs and one large fries with your whole family.
Aside from that, there’s also a hamburger basket and a cheeseburger basket that you can have as an alternative.
Chilli flavors are available solo.
Pair it with a Route 66 root beer, too.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drury Inn & Suites Springfield
11. Gabatoni’s Restaurant
300 E Laurel St
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 528-9629
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Gabatoni’s Restaurant is an Italian restaurant offering various dishes, especially pizzas.
Why It Made The List
Their food tastes so delicious from the first bite down to the last one.
Each of their offered dishes will give a unique and authentic flavor you won’t find anywhere else in Springfield.
And once you get a taste of their food, you’ll surely want to have more.
Moreover, they have an eclectic menu, meaning you’ll have more options.
You’ll get all the satisfaction you need here at Gabatoni’s Restaurant.
Popular Dishes to Try
Their most popular dish is their perfectly cooked Toasted Ravioli.
It packs a delectable flavor that punches.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites near Route 66
Related: Best Things to Do in Springfield
12. Smokey Bones Springfield
2660 S Dirksen Pkwy
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 528-6410
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Smokey Bones Springfield focuses on providing good food, good drinks, and good times in the Springfield area.
Why It Made The List
This beauty of a bar and fire grill resto will satisfy your appetite in many ways.
Their varying food options are infused with rich and flavorful recipes worldwide.
Thus, creating an invigorating taste for their dishes that you’ll definitely love.
Add up their cozy and warm dining atmosphere, and you’ll see how great of a place they are.
For every occasion, it is highly recommendable to visit Smokey Bones Springfield.
Popular Dishes to Try
Their most popular dish is Baby Back Ribs.
This dish has a refreshing and wonderful flavor you won’t taste elsewhere.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites, Springfield SW
13. Old Luxemburg Inn
1900 S 15th St
Springfield, IL 62703
(217) 528-0503
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A local favorite, the Old Luxemburg Inn serves fresh seafood and scrumptious steaks in Springfield.
It stands less than a mile away from Bunn Park.
Why It Made The List
More popularly known as the Old Lux, this eight-decade restaurant has earned praises due to its old-school spirit. Its location in the neighborhood also made it appealing to many tourists.
If you want to delve deep into the Springfield community, then this is certainly the place to be.
What’s more, you’ll also fall in love with this awesome local diner since they provide lots of food at very affordable prices.
Popular Dishes to Try
Begin your sumptuous dinner with a combo basket that contains mushrooms, onion rings, and mozzarella sticks.
If you’re a health-conscious foodie, you can try the chef’s salad instead.
Try the ribeye sandwich, one of the classic favorites in this resto, that comes with French fries.
If you love this, then there’s no reason not to taste the grilled ribeye as well.
It’s served with salad and potato.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Springfield I-55
Related: Things to Do in Springfield, IL with Kids
14. Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant
2501 Wabash Ave
Springfield, IL 62704
(217) 321-9100
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Founded in 2005, Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant boasts flavorful wines across its four dozen locations in the US.
Most of its properties are located in Illinois, including one based in Springfield.
Why It Made The List
Wine connoisseurs won’t go wrong in choosing this modern casual restaurant because it offers everything you need for a complete dining fare.
Taking inspiration from Napa Valley, this upscale diner will surely deliver the experience you’ve been dreaming about.
Level up your wine experience by checking out the tasting room to smell, taste, and savor the newest addition to their list.
Popular Dishes to Try
Have three-cheese and Italian sausage arancini for an appetizing start to your sophisticated lunch.
Try the Sartori parmesan chicken for the entrée that has tomato-braised kale, fingerlings, and white wine tomato broth.
Make sure to get blackberry apple cobbler pie for dessert.
Sip the Grateful White Blend that the chef also greatly recommends alongside your meal.
Check out the chef’s suggestion every season to taste the best they have to offer
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Northfield Inn Suites and Conference Center
15. La Piazza Cucina Italiana
218 S 6th St
Springfield, IL 62701
(217) 572-1442
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La Piazza draws heavy inspiration from Italian cuisine to serve the tastiest brick-oven pizza in the city.
It’s also within walking distance from the historical attractions downtown.
Why It Made The List
Italian cuisine is so popular that you’d most likely see it everywhere you go around the world.
If you’re craving Italian food, then La Piazza would be a great option for you in the Springfield area.
Its cozy style would surely be lovely especially for the young ones.
In addition, this pizza place uses classic Italian brick ovens to achieve the perfect product you would like.
No doubt then why it’s considered among the best restaurants in Springfield.
Popular Dishes to Try
Order the Vesuvio pizza if you’re looking for spicy flavors that also have mozzarella cheese, sausage, pepperoni, and peppers.
You can also stick to the classics with Margherita pizza.
It’s also possible to customize your pizza with your choice of meat, vegetables, and cheese.
Complete your Italian dining by having the restaurant’s classic spaghetti with meatballs and mozzarella.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: State House Inn
Dining Guide
Comparing Restaurants: Which One Is Right For You?
When comparing Springfield restaurants, consider the overall dining experience you’ll have.
Mariah’s Steakhouse and Pasta is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a semi-fine dining experience through prime steaks.
Café Moxo, on the other hand, is the place to go for a good breakfast and a quick grab of food you need occasionally.
This is my go-to spot for breakfast in Springfield, and I really love their blueberry muffin and baked eggs.
While Charlie Parker’s Diner is a nostalgic establishment serving the best American cuisine classics.
All these three resto offer healthy and vegan options, but they each possess unique traits.
This is why it is essential to choose a restaurant that will match all the preferences you have.
How I Picked The Restaurants
As a long-time food and travel enthusiast who loves to write blogs, I thoroughly studied Springfield’s culinary scene and culture.
And to ensure that my writing is genuine, I dined and indulged myself with each restaurant on this list.
On top of that, I did deep research on each restaurant I visited to fully grasp the idea of their food and service.
Even Tripadvisor and Yelp share the same suggestions and insights as myself.
Our Restaurant Rating Method
I rate these restaurants based on the following criteria.
- Taste & Variety: I use this to evaluate the variety and food quality served at every restaurant. Does the restaurant serve tasty dishes with unique flavors? Does the restaurant’s menu cater to different dietary preferences, like vegetarian and gluten-free? I ask myself these questions to evaluate the taste and variety criterion.
- Service: This is used to evaluate the quality of service provided by the restaurant’s staff. Are their servers knowledgeable about their food? Are they friendly, prompt, and courteous? These are important questions I ask myself whenever I rate the service of every restaurant.
- Atmosphere: This evaluates the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Is the restaurant comfortable and inviting? Does the restaurant’s atmosphere match the type of cuisine they serve? I consider these factors when evaluating the restaurant’s atmosphere.
- Affordability: I use this to assess the value of money provided by the restaurant. Are the food portions ideal for the price? Are the guests going to be satisfied with what they pay for? I ask myself these questions in order to rate the restaurant’s affordability.
- Accessibility: This measures how accessible the place is for the guests. Is the restaurant in a convenient location that is easy to get to? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have enough parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? I use these questions to assess the accessibility of every restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Food Is Springfield, Illinois Famous For?
The food Springfield, Illinois, is famous for are sandwiches, steaks, and chili.
Is Springfield Illinois A Good Place To Live?
Springfield, Illinois can be a good place to live for those who enjoy a slower pace of life and appreciate a rich historical and political heritage, but individual preferences may vary.
Conclusion
The best restaurants in Springfield that I listed here are establishments that will provide every culinary desire you need.
These establishments aren’t perfect and have some drawbacks.
Charlie Parker’s Diner and Cafe Moxo are pretty pricey compared to other competitors out there.
This is why I recommend Engrained Brewery and Restaurant as a great alternative that won’t fall short in the competition.
On the bright side, these two restaurants are starting to see their downside and are implementing strategies to serve more guests better.
As for my top pick, you can’t go wrong with Mariah’s Steakhouse and Pasta.
It’s an excellent choice for its delicious food, eclectic menu, and quality service.
And did we mention that it has excellent wines?
Editor’s Choice
Mariah’s Steakhouse and Pasta
Mariah’s Steakhouse and Pasta is one of the few local restaurants featuring a log-cabin style.
- Taste & Variety: 4.5/5
- Service: 4.5/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 5/5
