Springfield is the third largest city in Missouri, and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors will enjoy the activities available at Lake of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake, which are a short drive away from the city center. The city is also home to several universities, such as Missouri State University and Cox College of Nursing. Springfield is known for having a wide variety dining options, and a visit would not be complete without a stop at one of its many Chinese food restaurants.
Springfield is the official home of a unique recipe for Cashew Chicken. Unlike the cashew chicken recipes used in most Chinese restaurants in the United States, cashew chicken prepared “Springfield style” consists of deep fried chunks of chicken in a brown gravy made from oyster sauce, soy sauce, and chicken stock, and covered with chopped green onions and cashews. According to an article in the March 11, 2009 edition of “The New York Times”, more than 70 restaurants in Springfield offer cashew chicken. Chinese restaurants in other parts of the state often advertise the availability of “Springfield Cashew Chicken” to attract diners familiar with the famous dish. One well known outlet for cashew chicken and other Chinese food in Springfield is Lucy’s Chinese Food. Lucy’s is described as quiet, casual restaurant with affordable prices and quick service. Lucy’s Chinese Food has three locations in Springfield.
Lucy’s Chinese Food
3330 South Campbell Avenue
Springfield, MO 65807
(417) 882-5383?
Lucy’s Chinese Food
518 East Central Street
Springfield, MO 65807
(417) 831-6401
Lucy’s Chinese Food
2456 East Sunshine Street
Springfield, MO 65807
(417) 882-9964
For visitors craving Chinese food, the concierge desk at the Springfield Doubletree Hotel recommends Hong Kong Inn describing it as being, “always packed.” This perhaps confirms why a local magazine rated Hong Kong Inn as offering the best cashew chicken in the area. The daily lunch specials at Hong Kong Inn make it an attractive option for diners on a tight budget. The restaurant-chain has three locations in Springfield.
Hong Kong Inn Restaurant
1520 W. Battlefield St.
Springfield, MO 65807
(417) 881-8008
hkirestaurant.com
Hong Kong Inn Restaurant
1632 E. Sunshine
Springfield, MO
(417) 881-1113
hkirestaurant.com
Hong Kong Inn Restaurant
1645 N. Glenstone
Springfield, MO
(417) 866-3382
hkirestaurant.com
Diners looking for a more formal experience will enjoy the ambiance and Chinese food offered at Mr. Yen’s. The lavish dining room includes traditional decor and large round tables, each with a \"lazy Susan\" to pass plates easily around the table and promote a family dining experience. The menu at Mr. Yen’s includes a long list of traditional Chinese appetizers and dishes, from beef with broccoli to Peking duck. Add in a creative bar and dessert menu, and you will understand why Mr. Yen’s is one of Springfield’s top rated Chinese food restaurants.
Mr. Yen’s
4117 South National Avenue
Springfield, MO 65807-5356
(417) 881-1061