Springfield is one of those cities that surprises people. Sitting in the heart of the Ozarks, it has a food scene that’s far more diverse and creative than most outsiders expect.
From authentic Nigerian cuisine to Dutch specialties to Mexican-Italian fusion, Springfield’s restaurants reflect a community that’s open to new flavors and fiercely loyal to the people who bring them.
The best spots here tend to be the passion projects: restaurants opened by people who had a specific vision and refused to water it down. Here are five that embody that spirit…