Best Restaurants in Cape Girardeau
Cape Girardeau, a charming city nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River, is a culinary gem waiting to be discovered. This city, known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene, is also home to an array of restaurants that cater to a variety of palates. From cozy cafes to upscale dining establishments, Cape Girardeau offers a diverse food scene that is sure to satisfy food lovers of all types. Whether you're craving authentic Southern barbecue, fresh seafood, or international cuisine, you'll find it all in this city. In this article, we will guide you through some of the best restaurants in Cape Girardeau, ensuring your dining experience in this city is nothing short of exceptional.
Katy o'ferrell's publick house
4.5
(865)
Convivial hangout offering hearty, Irish-inspired eats, whiskey & tap brews in a warm setting.
Reviews:
Unique and amazing food. The atmosphere is suitable for all walks of life. The price is a little higher than average, but the quality is higher than the prices. I would recommend this place to anyone and will definitely be a return customer.
Bryan Gohn
We decided to try our luck at this great Irish eatery. The entire locale is very nostalgic which is located in the heart of Cape around the old original buildings and homes. The inside of the place was like going back in time and visiting an authentic 1800's Irish pub. The entrance has an old tunnel feel and when you enter the bar/pub is immediately what you find yourself in. They have a number of Red Ale's which I personally loved and a fine selection of whiskeys. The place has a quite a few weekly price specials and the food was fantastic. We went with the stuffed mushrooms which had corned beef, kraut, and cream cheese. Next we went with the corned beef sandwich. It was fantastic. My favorite Ale was Katy's Red Ale. Had the perfect taste for me as far as an ale goes, but if you like Red without the little Ale kick; I'd recommend the Harp Irish Lager. It was smooth. Overall dining experience was excellent. The atmosphere is light, engaging and relaxing all at the same time. I love the brick archways and the feel of a pub/tavern. The food was modestly priced considering this day and age. It is truly Irish in nature. The drinks are many and if I lived in Cape, no doubt I'd be making a weekly visit. I gave a five-star rating based on price, experience, and selection.
josh banks
We ate here for Father's Day and my father-in-law's birthday and it was amazing. Our server Chloe kept drinks filled and got food to the table quickly. Drinks: I had a Dublin Mule and an Irish Wake. The Dublin Mule is (as you would expect) lime, ginger beer and whiskey. Delicious. The Irish Wake was considerably stronger and is made from rum and OJ (with a three drink max). Also Delicious. They also have various craft beers on tap including a house brew. Food: I had the Pick Two (1/2 Sandwich and Soup). The half Reuben was really good. Not the best ice ever had, but a well made with the perfect blend of sauerkraut and corned beef. The Potato Soup was a different story (in a good way). A pot sealed with a layer of melty cheese concealed a thick semi liquid treasure filled with chunks of potato and bacon. I've rarely had a potato soup so close to what I make myself in terms of consistency and flavor. My wife had to try a bite after me praising it so much and she loved it as well. My daughter had the kids grilled cheese with house made chips. She loved it. My wife had a cheeseburger. She said it was good. It came with "planks" which are somewhat like battered French fries. They had an excellent flavor. My father-in-law had the shepherd's pie. It looked delicious. In the same way my potato soup was sealed with cheese, his shepherd's pie was sealed with mashed potatoes. We also tried two appetizers. The Guiness White Cheese Dip was devilishly creamy and went with the baguette it was served with as well as the Bavarian Pretzels we ordered as our second appetizer. All said and done (including a 20% tip) this meal cost us around $30 per person for 5 meals, 2 appetizers, 4 drinks and a lovely dining experience.
Curtis Carter
Nice selection of beers & cocktails. Chicken pot pie & shepherds pie were good. The carrots that came with them were very yummy. Cool & fun atmosphere.
Cheryl S
This is the second time I've traveled 2 and a half hours to go here. The first time it was wonderful, this time it needed more seasoning. That being said the staff is wonderful and the bangers and mash is a delight.
Preston Rogers (Nerdy Ronin)
300 Broadway St, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701, USA
Bistro saffron
4.5
(289)
Reviews:
My wife and I visited Saffron for the first time over the weekend as part of celebrating our anniversary. I had reached out to them via Facebook to ask about menu items and reservations, as someone on a vegan diet this is something I do often, and the manager that I spoke with was by far one of the most helpful people I've encountered via a random Facebook message conversation. I can't say enough great things about our experience. They reserved a table in the corner for us with plenty of space and a great view of the sunset over the trees (and even a few deer out and about) and they even put out a nice card wishing us a happy anniversary. I think almost every front of the house team member was kind enough to stop and also wish a happy anniversary, including the manager. Our waiter was extremely polite and professional, and knowledgeable of the menu and made great recommendations. He was also very helpful in providing us suggestions regarding local events over the weekend as well as after dinner options for us to enjoy a drink in a comfortable environment. Our food was all very fresh and delicious, and we were even provided with a wonderful complimentary dessert. I don't believe I've ever had a dining experience on par with how great Bistro Saffron was this weekend. My wife and I will definitely be visiting each time we're in Cape Girardeau from now on.
Chadrick Parson
Middle aged server angry that I don’t leave a tip. I’m a single person having a meal alone. I don’t think a tip is warranted for you to place my plate on the table bring me water and my check. As I’m sitting in my car writing this review another employee comes to my window a male this time. Asking me if my service was bad and why I didn’t leave a tip. Apparently the only reason they work here is for tips. The state minimum wage for servers is apparently 5$ per hour plus tips. I’m not from this state but all I can say is fight for your right to a living wage. A customer shouldn’t supplement what the job you have isn’t providing. Overall food was great unfortunately I won’t be back after this.
Michael Rader
All I have to say is the service was wonderful. The young waiter who has been their for a while is very nice and helpful and competent. Veggie rolls were good, pan fried dumplings tasted like they were frozen and dropped in hot oil, not freshly made. Very disappointed in our cashew chicken. Dropped over $70.00 with tip just to be disappointed.
Eric Goines
I passed through the area and the vegan meal I sampled was filling but not quite as flavorful as I would have enjoyed. It was a tasty entree none the less but I’m not sure it was worth the cost. The staff was very friendly and accommodating and the atmosphere was similar to small town “fine dining.”
Love Notes for TLC
Absolute perfection. We expected standard, Thai (maybe Americanized) fare but a gifted and friendly chef from Thailand, an attentive and personable server, very tasteful surroundings and the most authentic, delicious family recipes were what we found. And all at a reasonable price. We will be back, again and again. We have been in Cape several months, checking out the cuisine, and this was a delight in every way.
Kai Brooks
1610 N Kingshighway St #101, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701, USA
Ciao
4.6
(149)
Reviews:
The waitstaff was so attentive! Our waiter for the evening was great. He was present without being intrusive. I believe his name was Dustin. The menu offered a variety of options that are different from a lot of other restaurants in the area. Everything we had was wonderful! Perfect portions of delicious dishes. I had the sea bass, as recommended by our waiter, and my husband had the eggplant parm. The atmosphere was lovely and intimate. The dining area is clean and decorated nicely. The music played was perfectly suited for the type of vibe they're trying to achieve. Overall, Ciao is a beautiful Italian restaurant perfect for date night. We can't wait to go back!
Jule Mosley
The Great and Not So Great. . . The food was very tasty and the wine as well. The service was exceptional! The not so great . . . The atmosphere was very relaxing, except for the classic rock music, and I like Beatles and Stones. Just weird in a fine Italian Ristorante. The food and drinks clearly overpriced, with two modest entrees around $20, two glasses of wine each, and tip topping a hundred bucks. The most disappointing thing was that they refused to honor a gift card that was issued by the previous owner (under the same restaurant name). This was a bit embarrassing. I may go back simply because of the food and the service.
Don Francis
My wife and I came in for a date night and the experience was perfect. The food was outstanding. The staff and owners are friendly and provided top notch service. I recommend to anyone looking for a great meal and night out.
Benjamin Schremp
Ciao is perfect for a romantic dinner or if you just want perfect gourmet food! They are inviting and 150% professional while still treating you like family. We really enjoyed having Scott as our waiter, he's funny and super helpful! If you want a perfect dining experience, go to Ciao!
Dan Strong
Ciao was an excellent evening experience! The food and decor worked together very well to create a beautiful upscale secret in Cape. I definitely recommend.
Tommy Bakersmith
1650 North Kingshighway #102, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701, USA
Gabriel's food + wine
4.7
(248)
Reviews:
Great experience here. Came with a friend to try this place out and it was worth the 2 hour drive from St. Louis. I got the duck fettuccine and it was very rich and flavorful. Our waitress was very helpful with our wine selection and overall it was a very good experience being able to dine here. I would highly recommend people to stop by and check this place out if they are ever in the mood for Italian food.
N C.
The polenta fries were a lovely start to our meal. The server recommended the mushroom and squash lasagna and it was HEAVENLY. We definitely would make the hour+ drive to dine there again.
Ashley Wilson
Quaint spot with good apps and extensive wine list. Bruschetta is amazing! We saw pasta being handmade, wish we had time to stay for it! Will definitely stop again
jennifer jones
Amazing food! Everything was spot on. Didn’t have to season anything, will definitely return to enjoy again.
Mr Zwave
Not only is Gabriel's a great place to dine, but also a great place to shop for imported Italian food and drink. The atmosphere is warm and inviting; the food is excellent. I love buying imported olives and Italian wine from Gabriel's. Update March 2022. You must try the Pear and Walnut Ravioli. Unbelievable. Very nostalgic to me for some reason. There were hints of chocolate and the combination is something you would not expect. I would also recommend the meatballs for an appetizer. Great service.
Joni Barwick
127 Main St, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701, USA
Top of the marq
4.5
(191)
Reviews:
My favorite restaurant when I’m in Cape Girardeau. Italian salad is the best In my opinion. It’s fresh, flavorful, the green olives is something you don’t see on salads all the time adds a nice flavor. The roasted carrots are very flavorful and you get a pretty large portion tonight I tried the blacken shrimp, it’s exactly what I expected good size portion, and very well seasoned. Their menu has changed so unfortunately I cannot get the jerk chicken skewers but that is forced me to try different things. The establishment is very clean nice seating, and great outdoor views if the weather permits. The service has been great. I have nothing but great things to say. Whether sitting at a table or sitting at the bar, you can’t go wrong.
C Traveling
This is a very cool restaurant with exquisite ambience but the food did not meet the mark. Excuse the pun, I couldn’t resist. I would say the only thing worth the money was the pork chop. Everything else was not good for the price. But I love the views of the river and the city as well as the interior architecture. Yes you were concerned about wasting but still want to see the restaurant just go for a drink.
Lilith
Exquisite food and ambience! Their blackened shrimp is my all time favorite, with their French dip coming in second. The Salmon is good as well if you prefer a slightly burnt taste. If you’re looking for an upscaled restaurant, please choose this over any others in the area since they have more items and reasonably priced! 11/10 would recommend!
Swapnil Moon
The tapas here were amazing! The view, the vibe, the service, the food. Everything was *chefs kiss*. Our server Lucy was amazing and gracious and patient! We had such a good time.
Sierra Young
I have great experiences every time I visit Top of the Marq. The cocktails are unique and tasty. The menu rotates seasonally so the food is always fresh. In the many times I’ve visited Top of the Marq, I’ve always been pleased with the food and drinks. One of my favorite parts of the roof top bar is the view of downtown Cape. The aesthetics of the entire building is immaculate. Edit: The truffle fries are hands down some of the best French fries ever. You must try them!
Hayley Hutson
338 Broadway St 7th floor, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701, USA
Olive garden italian restaurant
4.4
(2100)
Lively, family-friendly chain featuring Italian standards such as pastas & salads.
Reviews:
We went to Olive Garden to celebrate a birthday tonight and had a FABULOUS experience! Our waiter, Luke, did an amazing job with getting our food in and correct. He was so personable which unfortunately you don't see enough anymore and went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of (even with a 20 top behind us)!! My husband got the sirloin and said it may be the best steak he has ever had! Seasoning and tenderness was on point and the steak was perfectly cooked! Great job to the entire staff tonight!
CHAD JOHNSTON
Tonight my boyfriend and I arrived around 9. They close at 10. Employees were still super friendly.. Joy was our server. One of the best I I've had. I've always had great service at Olive Garden . The eggplant parmasama was the best I'd ever had. Best chef on 4/30/2023. I'll be back. I had stopped coming so often, but tonight the restaurant outdid themselves. I'll be back.
Rhonda Summers
Waiter was very friendly, food was hot & delicious. Chicken gnocchi was my favorite soup. Highly recommended this restaurant
Marcella Counts
It was good as usual it can be loud sometimes if the place is busy my daughter loves it but can not handle loud places So we try to go when it is not busy
Ben Allen
My dish was amazing and it was indeed served warm. The service was great and on point in making sure we were happy.
Robert Russell
3259 William St, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703, USA
Texas roadhouse
4.3
(2591)
Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.
Reviews:
The steak being extremely salty is the biggest reason as to why I put food to 4 stars, the atmosphere and service were absolutely amazing and I will definitely be coming back here soon! Besides the steak though, the blooming onion was amazing! A very popular place, so if you want to be seated straight away, make sure to call in advance, otherwise you might have to wait outside a bit on busy evenings!
Jill
Traveling home from vacatuon and had horrible experience at a Texas Roadhouse. 1st had to ask for rolls and plates. Ordered 2- 8oz filets. 1 medium rare that was undercooked and 1 medium well which they butterflied and way overcooked. The waitress was very apologetic and stated they had a bunch of steaks not cooked right. She said she would get manager. The "manager" came over and asked my husband if we wanted her to put it back on grill, he stated no. She then tried to say mine was maybe a little overdone which I had to show her definately not a little over done. She was like we weren't too angry, I'm not sure how you are supposed to act but she did a good job pissing me off. The waitress also profusely apologized for the manager trainee coming over as she was pretty useless. Waitress got her tip but I would never go back to this roadhouse or recommend it to anyone. My husband makes better steaks at home.
Robyn Littleton
I eat at Texas Roadhouse often when I'm traveling and craving steak. This location was conveniently located next to my hotel. I usually love Texas Roadhouse, but this one was disappointing. They were out of Miller lite. I had to ask for a water 3 times. My meal took 30 minutes to come out and the steak was well done, I ordered it medium rare. They offered to replace it, then ran out of boneless ribeye steaks. They brought me a bone in, that didn't have a bone. It was rare and very tough. It had no outside trim, like a ribeye. Just very disappointing. Plus, the rolls were over cooked and not soft. I left feeling unfulfilled.
Katie “Katie” B
Well, usually, texas Roadhouse is very good, but this location does not seem to know how to cook steaks. Ordered medium and 2x got well done. Waitress was very apologetic but of course not her fault
Ed Heim
the bread and butter, as well as my blooming onion appetizer was really good. then I got to the main course, the ribeye, which I ordered medium, it was well done. as well as super salty. I've heard so many good things about this restaurant but this did not live up to it's name. I'm very disappointed.
Scarlett Gillette
13 Doctors Park Dr, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703, USA