Step beyond the famed mineral waters and historic architecture, and you’ll uncover a delightful surprise: Excelsior Springs boasts a vibrant culinary scene that’s ready to tantalize your taste buds. This charming Missouri town, known for its healing waters and timeless appeal, offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from upscale restaurants serving refined dishes to cozy cafes dishing out comforting classics. Whether you’re a serious foodie, a casual traveler, or simply looking for a great place to eat, Excelsior Springs has something to satisfy every palate and budget. Get ready to discover the best food in Excelsior Springs, as we guide you through the can’t-miss restaurants, hidden gems, and local flavors that make this town a culinary destination.
Elevated Experiences and Fine Dining
For a truly special occasion or a sophisticated evening out, Excelsior Springs offers several restaurants that elevate the dining experience. These establishments focus on fresh ingredients, impeccable service, and creative menus that showcase the chef’s talent and vision.
One such gem is The Elms Hotel & Spa. While primarily known for its luxurious accommodations and rejuvenating spa treatments, The Elms Hotel & Spa also houses a fantastic restaurant. The ambiance is undeniably elegant, featuring soft lighting, comfortable seating, and attentive service. The menu features American cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. A popular dish is the pan-seared scallops, served with a delicate risotto and a lemon butter sauce. The restaurant’s wine list is equally impressive, offering a selection of both domestic and international wines to complement your meal. Expect to spend a bit more for this upscale experience, but the exceptional quality and memorable atmosphere make it well worth the splurge.
Another excellent option for fine dining is The Saratoga Supper Club. This restaurant has built a solid reputation for its high-quality steaks and seafood, all served in an inviting setting. The atmosphere here is a touch more relaxed than The Elms, but still retains a sophisticated charm. Their ribeye steak, cooked to perfection and served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and asparagus, is a perennial favorite. The service is attentive and personalized, ensuring that every guest feels welcome and well cared for. Again, this is a pricier option, but the quality of the food and service are top-notch.
These establishments offer a special, elevated experience because of their commitment to quality. From carefully sourcing ingredients to training attentive staff, these restaurants go the extra mile to create a memorable dining experience for their guests. Expect dishes crafted with precision, flavors that are both familiar and exciting, and service that is professional and warm. These are the places to go when you want to celebrate a special occasion, impress a client, or simply treat yourself to something exceptional. They are the epitome of “restaurants in Excelsior Springs, MO” for those who seek a refined experience.
Casual Dining and Local Favorites
Sometimes, you just want a relaxed meal in a friendly atmosphere. Fortunately, Excelsior Springs has plenty of casual dining options that are popular with locals and visitors alike. These restaurants offer delicious food at reasonable prices, making them perfect for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a casual gathering with friends.
Ray’s Lunch is a true Excelsior Springs institution. This cozy diner has been serving up classic American comfort food for decades. Known for its friendly service and consistently good food, Ray’s is a favorite among locals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their cheeseburger is a must-try – a juicy patty topped with melted cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and your choice of condiments, all served on a toasted bun. Be sure to order a side of their crispy fries or onion rings. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick and satisfying meal. It is also a must stop for all who seek the heart of Excelsior Springs dining.
For a taste of Mexican cuisine, head to Ventanas Mexican Restaurant. This family-owned restaurant serves up authentic dishes made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Their menu is extensive, offering everything from tacos and enchiladas to fajitas and burritos. A popular choice is the carne asada, a flavorful grilled steak served with rice, beans, and tortillas. The margaritas are also a big hit, especially during happy hour. The atmosphere is lively and festive, making it a great place to celebrate with friends and family.
And for a hidden gem, venture off the beaten path to Broadway Bar and Grill. While unassuming from the outside, this cozy spot is beloved by locals for its delicious burgers and sandwiches. Their “Broadway Burger,” piled high with toppings, is a local legend. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, making it a great place to unwind after a long day. Don’t be surprised if you strike up a conversation with one of the regulars – the sense of community here is strong.
Coffee, Bakeries, and Sweet Treats
Need a caffeine fix or a sweet treat? Excelsior Springs has you covered. From cozy coffee shops to tempting bakeries, there are plenty of places to satisfy your cravings.
Java Brew is a popular coffee shop in the heart of downtown Excelsior Springs. This cozy cafe serves up a variety of specialty coffees, teas, and other beverages. They also offer a selection of pastries, sandwiches, and salads. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great place to relax with a book or catch up with friends. Their caramel latte is a customer favorite, and their homemade cookies are simply irresistible. It’s a great place to kick start your day or take a midday break.
For something sweet, head to Olde Tyme Candy Shoppe. This charming candy store is filled with a wide variety of treats, from classic candies to homemade fudge. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. They offer a wide variety of fudge, chocolates, and candies. This shop is nostalgic and offers a great experience for people of all ages.
Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries
Excelsior Springs has a rich history of brewing and distilling, and that tradition continues today. The town is home to several breweries, wineries, and distilleries, each offering a unique taste of the local flavor.
Fence Stile Vineyards & Winery offers a truly immersive experience. This picturesque winery is located just outside of town and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. They produce a variety of award-winning wines, from crisp whites to bold reds. The tasting room is open daily, and visitors can enjoy a flight of wines while taking in the beautiful scenery. They also offer guided tours of the vineyard and winemaking facilities. Be sure to check their schedule for special events, such as live music and food pairings.
For those who prefer beer, Dubious Claims Brewing Co. is a must-visit. This local brewery crafts a variety of creative and flavorful beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. The taproom is a fun and lively place to sample their brews and socialize with friends. They often have food trucks on site, offering a variety of delicious eats to pair with their beers. Their flagship IPA is a crowd-pleaser, and they are always experimenting with new and innovative recipes.
These establishments offer a unique glimpse into the local craft beverage scene. From the scenic vineyards to the lively taprooms, these are the places to go to experience the true flavor of Excelsior Springs. These unique beverages are some of the best drinks in Excelsior Springs.
Special Events and Seasonal Food
Excelsior Springs hosts a variety of special events throughout the year that celebrate the local food scene. Keep an eye out for farmers markets, food festivals, and other culinary events that showcase the best of the area.
The Excelsior Springs Farmers Market is a weekly event held during the summer months. This vibrant market is a great place to find fresh produce, homemade goods, and other local products. It’s also a great opportunity to meet the farmers and vendors who are passionate about bringing quality food to the community. You can purchase fresh vegetables, fruits, and other goods.
Many of the local restaurants also offer seasonal dishes that highlight the best ingredients of the moment. In the fall, look for dishes featuring pumpkin, apples, and other autumnal flavors. In the spring, expect to see dishes made with asparagus, strawberries, and other fresh produce. Eating seasonally is a great way to experience the true taste of Excelsior Springs.
Conclusion
From upscale dining to casual eateries, Excelsior Springs offers a diverse and delicious range of culinary experiences. Whether you’re craving a juicy steak, a plate of authentic tacos, or a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite in this charming Missouri town. Remember, this guide is just a starting point – there are countless other hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Excelsior Springs.
So, whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a delicious meal, Excelsior Springs has something to satisfy your cravings. Plan your visit today and discover the culinary treasures of this charming Missouri town! The food scene of Excelsior Springs contributes to the town’s charm and makes it a great destination for everyone.
