Introduction
Excelsior Springs, Missouri, often conjures images of historic bathhouses and rejuvenating mineral springs. While its therapeutic waters put it on the map, this charming town near Kansas City boasts another hidden treasure: a surprisingly vibrant and delicious food scene. Far beyond just a wellness retreat, Excelsior Springs offers a diverse culinary landscape waiting to be explored. From quaint cafes serving up homemade breakfast delights to elegant restaurants showcasing locally-sourced ingredients, the town caters to every palate and culinary desire. This guide will navigate you through the best dining experiences Excelsior Springs has to offer, ensuring your visit is a feast for both your senses and your soul.
Let’s explore the options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as the places that serve up the sweetest treats.
Starting the Day: Breakfast and Brunch Delights
A great day always begins with a great meal, and the breakfast and brunch spots in Excelsior Springs are no exception. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, the perfect way to kickstart your morning. You’ll find a variety of options here, from a quick bite to fuel your adventures to a leisurely brunch.
Ray’s Cafe
One standout is Ray’s Cafe, a local favorite known for its hearty portions and friendly service. Located on Thompson Avenue, Ray’s exudes a classic diner charm, with comfortable booths and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. Be sure to try their signature biscuits and gravy, a comforting classic that will leave you feeling satisfied. For a truly special experience, opt for their homemade cinnamon rolls, a sweet treat that is perfect for sharing (or not!). What sets Ray’s apart is their dedication to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, supporting local farmers and ensuring the freshest possible flavors. Ray’s is one of the great places in Excelsior Springs to get food.
Toast
For a more contemporary brunch experience, head to Toast. This café, with its vibrant décor and innovative menu, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. Located on Broadway Street, Toast offers a menu that blends traditional breakfast fare with creative twists. Their avocado toast, topped with everything bagel seasoning and a perfectly poached egg, is a crowd-pleaser. Toast also boasts an impressive selection of specialty coffees and teas, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely morning. They pride themselves on using organic and ethically sourced ingredients, ensuring that every bite is both delicious and sustainable.
Main Street Coffee
Finally, for a quick and easy breakfast on the go, Main Street Coffee is a must-visit. Located on Main Street, this cozy coffee shop offers a variety of pastries, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches, along with a wide selection of coffee drinks. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite before heading out to explore the mineral springs or simply looking for a caffeine fix, Main Street Coffee has you covered. Their friendly baristas and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect spot to start your day.
Lunch and Casual Eateries: A Midday Refuel
When midday hunger strikes, Excelsior Springs offers a range of casual eateries perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch. From classic American fare to international flavors, there’s something for everyone.
Ventana Gourmet Grill
Ventana Gourmet Grill is a popular choice for those seeking a fresh and flavorful lunch. Located on Kansas City Avenue, Ventana specializes in gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups. Their menu features a variety of creative combinations, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Try their grilled chicken panini with pesto and mozzarella or their signature Cobb salad, loaded with fresh vegetables and grilled chicken. Ventana is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch, and their friendly staff will make you feel right at home. The food in Excelsior Springs is exceptional, and Ventana is a gem.
El Maguey Mexican Restaurant
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, head to El Maguey Mexican Restaurant. This vibrant restaurant, located on South Street, offers a wide selection of authentic Mexican dishes. From flavorful tacos and enchiladas to hearty burritos and fajitas, El Maguey has something for everyone. Their portions are generous, their prices are reasonable, and their atmosphere is lively and festive. Don’t forget to try their famous margaritas, the perfect accompaniment to any meal. El Maguey is a great place to enjoy a casual lunch with friends and family. It is a solid choice for those wanting food in Excelsior Springs.
The Mug
For a classic American lunch experience, The Mug is the place to be. Located on Broadway Street, The Mug has been serving up delicious burgers, sandwiches, and fries for generations. Their menu is simple and straightforward, but their food is consistently good. Try their signature burger, topped with bacon, cheese, and all the fixings, or their classic Reuben sandwich. The Mug is a local institution, and its retro atmosphere will transport you back to a simpler time.
Dinner and Fine Dining: Elevated Culinary Experiences
As the sun sets, Excelsior Springs transforms, offering a selection of fine dining establishments perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration. These restaurants showcase the best of local ingredients and culinary talent, providing an unforgettable dining experience.
Willow Spring Mercantile
Willow Spring Mercantile is a standout choice for a sophisticated dinner. Located on Willow Street, this restaurant features a menu of contemporary American cuisine, with an emphasis on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Their menu changes regularly, reflecting the freshest produce available. Try their grilled steak with roasted vegetables or their pan-seared salmon with quinoa and asparagus. Willow Spring Mercantile boasts an elegant and inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for a special occasion. Their extensive wine list and attentive service will enhance your dining experience. The food in Excelsior Springs does not get much better than this.
Dubious Claims Brewing Co.
For a taste of Italy, visit Dubious Claims Brewing Co., also know for their Italian inspired cuisine. This restaurant, located on Isley Blvd, offers a menu of classic Italian dishes, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From pasta to pizza, to grilled meats there is a wide array of Italian food choices. Try their spaghetti carbonara or their osso bucco, their pasta is made in house. The restaurant also boasts a selection of Italian wines, carefully curated to complement their menu. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, Dubious Claims Brewing Co. is perfect for a romantic dinner or a family gathering.
Sweet Treats and Desserts: Indulging Your Sweet Tooth
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in something sweet, and Excelsior Springs has plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. From homemade ice cream to decadent pastries, there’s a treat for every craving.
Classic Cakes and Confections
Classic Cakes and Confections is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Located on Broadway Street, this charming bakery offers a wide selection of cakes, cookies, pastries, and candies, all made from scratch with the finest ingredients. Their signature cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser, with flavors ranging from classic vanilla to decadent chocolate. Classic Cakes and Confections also offers custom cakes for special occasions, making it the perfect place to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or any other milestone.
The Scoop
For a refreshing treat on a hot day, head to The Scoop. This local ice cream parlor, located on Thompson Avenue, offers a variety of homemade ice cream flavors, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From classic vanilla and chocolate to unique combinations, such as strawberry cheesecake and mint chocolate chip, The Scoop has something for everyone. Their ice cream is rich, creamy, and delicious, and their friendly staff will make you feel right at home.
Exploring Unique Food Experiences
Beyond the traditional restaurant scene, Excelsior Springs offers some unique food experiences that are worth exploring.
Excelsior Springs Farmers Market
The Excelsior Springs Farmers Market, held during the spring and summer months, is a great place to sample local produce and support local farmers. Here, you’ll find a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses, as well as homemade jams, jellies, and baked goods. The farmers market is a great place to meet local farmers, learn about their products, and sample some of the best food that Excelsior Springs has to offer.
The Tipsy Daisy Brew Co.
The Tipsy Daisy Brew Co. is another location to visit if you are searching for exceptional food in Excelsior Springs. Located on Tracy Avenue it offers delicious treats such as pretzels, and amazing pizza. They are also brewing a wonderful selection of beers.
Visiting Excelsior Springs: Practical Tips
Planning your culinary adventure in Excelsior Springs? Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:
The best time to visit Excelsior Springs is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months can be hot and humid, while the winter months can be cold and snowy.
Getting around Excelsior Springs is relatively easy. The town is small and walkable, but a car is recommended for exploring the surrounding areas. Parking is generally easy to find and free.
It’s always a good idea to call ahead and make reservations, especially if you’re planning to dine at a popular restaurant during peak season. This will ensure that you get a table and avoid any unnecessary wait times.
For more information about Excelsior Springs and its attractions, visit the Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce website. You can also find helpful information on the city’s official website. Following local community pages on social media is also a good way to learn about what’s going on and to keep up to date on any special events.
A Culinary Conclusion
Excelsior Springs, Missouri, offers a delightful blend of history, charm, and culinary excellence. From cozy cafes serving up homemade breakfast delights to elegant restaurants showcasing locally sourced ingredients, the town caters to every palate and culinary desire. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a leisurely brunch, or a romantic dinner, Excelsior Springs has something to offer. So, pack your bags and your appetite, and discover the delicious side of Excelsior Springs! You won’t be disappointed. Come, explore the food in Excelsior Springs, and create memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
