Missouri is the crossroads of the American heartland, where the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers converge and eastern woodlands give way to western plains. From the gleaming Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the Ozark Mountains' ancient caves and the world-class barbecue pits of Kansas City, Missouri packs an extraordinary range of landscapes, history, and culture into a single state.
Missouri divides neatly into two great food cities and a scattering of regional specialties. Kansas City defines itself through pit-smoked barbecue — a distinct style using slow-smoked brisket, burnt ends, and a tomato-based sauce with molasses depth, complemented by sides like hickory pit beans and coleslaw. St. Louis counters with a uniquely local pizza tradition (ultrathin cracker crust, Provel cheese, party-cut squares), toasted ravioli (fried breaded pasta pockets, a St. Louis Italian-American invention), and a vibrant farm-to-table restaurant scene anchored in neighborhoods like The Hill, Soulard, and the Central West End. Springfield holds its own with cashew chicken — a dish created locally in 1963 that combines fried chicken pieces with a brown oyster sauce and cashews. The Ozarks region is known for simple American comfort food — fried catfish, hand-pattied burgers, and homemade pies.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
American
Bakery
Food tours & tastings in Missouri
Eat your way through Missouri with a guide.
Browse food experiences in MissouriWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Greek Festival
Find it at: Assumption Greek Orthodox Church, 1755 Des Peres Rd, St. Louis
Food Trucks at Fountain on Locust
Find it at: 3037 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63103
Crossroads KC Food Truck Park
Find it at: Main St & 19th St, Kansas City, MO 64108
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Soulard Market
Hours: Wed–Sat
City Farmers Market
Hours: Saturdays 8am–1pm (May–October)
Crown Center Farmers Market
Hours: Saturdays 8am–1pm (May–October)
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
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Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |