Savoring Missouri: A Culinary Tour of Barbecue, Toasted Ravioli, and Gooey Butter Cake

Missouri’s cuisine is a flavorful blend of Midwestern comfort food, Southern influences, and unique local specialties. From the smoky, rich barbecue of Kansas City to the crispy, golden-toasted ravioli of St. Louis, Missouri’s food scene offers a delicious mix of traditional dishes and innovative culinary creations. Whether you’re indulging in a slice of gooey butter cake, tasting the state’s award-winning wines, or diving into a bowl of hearty chili, Missouri’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its culture and history. Let’s explore the iconic foods and flavors that make Missouri a must-visit destination for food lovers.

1. Kansas City Barbecue: A Smoky, Sweet Tradition

Kansas City is renowned for its barbecue, a style known for slow-smoked meats like ribs, brisket, and burnt ends, served with a thick, tangy-sweet tomato-based sauce. The city is home to legendary barbecue joints that have been serving locals and visitors for decades.

For a classic Kansas City barbecue experience, visit Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, famous for its Z-Man Sandwich and perfectly smoked meats.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Another iconic spot is Arthur Bryant’s Barbecue, a historic eatery often credited with putting Kansas City on the barbecue map.
Arthur Bryant’s Barbecue

2. St. Louis-Style Pizza: A Thin-Crust Classic

Positive Things in Missouri

St. Louis-style pizza is a regional specialty featuring an ultra-thin, cracker-like crust, Provel cheese (a creamy blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone), and square-cut slices. This unique pizza style is beloved by locals and a must-try for visitors.

For an authentic taste, head to Imo’s Pizza, often referred to as “the square beyond compare.”
Imo’s Pizza

3. Toasted Ravioli: A St. Louis Favorite

Toasted ravioli, affectionately called “T-ravs,” are breaded and deep-fried ravioli, often stuffed with beef or cheese and served with marinara sauce. This dish is said to have originated in St. Louis and has become a signature appetizer in the city.

Try the original toasted ravioli at Charlie Gitto’s, a St. Louis institution.
Charlie Gitto’s

4. Springfield-Style Cashew Chicken

Springfield, Missouri, is known for its unique take on cashew chicken, a dish that combines deep-fried chicken with a savory oyster sauce, cashews, and green onions. This fusion of Chinese and American flavors was created by chef David Leong in the 1960s and remains a local favorite.

For authentic Springfield-style cashew chicken, visit Leong’s Asian Diner, the birthplace of this iconic dish.
Leong’s Asian Diner

5. Gooey Butter Cake: Missouri’s Sweet Treat

Gooey butter cake is a rich, dense dessert that originated in St. Louis. Made with a cake base and a creamy, sugary topping, this indulgent treat is a staple at bakeries across the state.

To sample the original gooey butter cake, stop by Park Avenue Coffee, which offers over 70 flavors of this beloved dessert.
Park Avenue Coffee

6. Chili and Cinnamon Rolls: A Unique Pairing

This unexpected yet delightful combination is a Missouri comfort food classic, especially popular in school cafeterias and small-town diners. The savory chili and sweet cinnamon rolls make for a hearty and satisfying meal.

For a taste of this local tradition, visit Clay’s Café in Jefferson City.

7. Missouri Wines and Craft Beers

Missouri Wines and Wineries

Missouri is home to a thriving wine industry, with the Hermann and Augusta wine regions producing award-winning varietals like Norton and Chambourcin. Craft beer enthusiasts will also find a wide selection of breweries across the state offering everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts.

Explore the Missouri wine country by visiting Stone Hill Winery in Hermann, one of the oldest wineries in the country.
Stone Hill Winery

For craft beer, check out Boulevard Brewing Company in Kansas City, a pioneer of the state’s craft beer scene.
Boulevard Brewing Company

A Culinary Itinerary Through Missouri: Barbecue, Butter Cake, and Beyond

Experience the best of Missouri’s food scene with this three-day itinerary that takes you from the smoky barbecue of Kansas City to the sweet delights of St. Louis. Enjoy regional classics like toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake, and Springfield-style cashew chicken while exploring the state’s vibrant culinary heritage.

Day 1: Kansas City – The BBQ Capital

Breakfast: Biscuits and Gravy at The Corner Restaurant
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Corner Restaurant, a Kansas City favorite offering comfort food classics like biscuits and gravy, along with locally roasted coffee.
The Corner Restaurant

Mid-Morning: Tour the National WWI Museum and Memorial
Before diving into barbecue, explore Kansas City’s history at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, which offers incredible exhibits and panoramic views of the city.
National WWI Museum and Memorial

Lunch: Barbecue at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Head to Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, a legendary spot for slow-smoked meats. Try their famous Z-Man Sandwich, a mouthwatering combination of brisket, smoked provolone, and onion rings on a Kaiser roll.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Afternoon: Visit Boulevard Brewing Company
Spend your afternoon touring Boulevard Brewing Company, where you can sample craft beers like their popular Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale.
Boulevard Brewing Company

Dinner: Fine Dining at Rye KC
End your day with dinner at Rye KC, a restaurant that elevates Midwestern cuisine with dishes like fried chicken and seasonal pies.
Rye KC

Day 2: St. Louis – Toasted Ravioli and Gooey Butter Cake

Missouri Weddings

Breakfast: St. Louis Slinger at Courtesy Diner
Start your day with a Slinger, a St. Louis breakfast classic featuring hash browns, eggs, and chili topped with cheese, at Courtesy Diner.
Courtesy Diner

Mid-Morning: Visit the Gateway Arch
Explore the iconic Gateway Arch and its museum, offering stunning views of the city and insights into Missouri’s history.
Gateway Arch

Lunch: Toasted Ravioli at Charlie Gitto’s
Stop by Charlie Gitto’s for toasted ravioli, a St. Louis specialty. Pair it with a fresh salad and marinara sauce for a perfect midday meal.
Charlie Gitto’s

Afternoon: Explore Forest Park and the Saint Louis Art Museum
Spend your afternoon strolling through Forest Park, home to the Saint Louis Art Museum, where you can enjoy free admission and impressive exhibits.
Saint Louis Art Museum

Dinner: St. Louis-Style Pizza at Imo’s Pizza
For dinner, try St. Louis-style pizza at Imo’s Pizza, known for its thin crust, Provel cheese, and square slices.
Imo’s Pizza

Dessert: Gooey Butter Cake at Park Avenue Coffee
Cap off your day with a slice of gooey butter cake from Park Avenue Coffee, which offers over 70 flavors of this iconic dessert.
Park Avenue Coffee

Day 3: Springfield and Hermann – Cashew Chicken and Missouri Wine

Breakfast: Classic Breakfast at Gailey’s Breakfast Café
Start your day at Gailey’s in Springfield, a cozy diner serving hearty breakfast plates like pancakes and omelets.
Gailey’s Breakfast Café

Mid-Morning: Visit Fantastic Caverns
Explore Fantastic Caverns, a beautiful ride-through cave experience located just outside Springfield.
Fantastic Caverns

Lunch: Springfield-Style Cashew Chicken at Leong’s Asian Diner
Try Springfield’s famous cashew chicken at Leong’s Asian Diner, where the dish was originally created.
Leong’s Asian Diner

Afternoon: Drive to Hermann and Visit Stone Hill Winery
Head to Hermann, Missouri’s wine country, and stop by Stone Hill Winery for a tour and tasting of their award-winning wines, including the state’s signature Norton varietal.
Stone Hill Winery

Dinner: German Fare at Hermann Wurst Haus
End your culinary journey with a hearty dinner at Hermann Wurst Haus, known for its bratwurst and smoked meats, paired with local beer.
Hermann Wurst Haus

Missouri Beer & Breweries

This three-day culinary tour of Missouri offers a taste of the state’s most iconic foods, from Kansas City’s smoky barbecue to St. Louis’ gooey butter cake and Springfield’s cashew chicken. Whether you’re savoring toasted ravioli or sipping wine in Hermann, Missouri’s food scene is sure to leave you with a full stomach and unforgettable memories. Enjoy the flavors of the Show-Me State!

Missouri hosts a variety of food festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich culinary heritage and local produce. Here are some notable events:

1. Missouri State Fair

Location: Sedalia
When: Annually in August
Highlights: A showcase of Missouri’s agriculture, featuring food competitions, local vendors, and classic fair treats.
Website: Missouri State Fair

2. Festival of Nations

Location: St. Louis
When: Annually in August
Highlights: A multicultural event celebrating global cuisines, with over 40 ethnic food booths, dance, music, and crafts.
Website: Festival of Nations

3. Sugar Creek Slavic Festival

Location: Sugar Creek
When: Annually in June
Highlights: Celebrates Slavic heritage with traditional foods like sarma (cabbage rolls), kielbasa, and pastries, along with music and dance performances.
Website: Sugar Creek Slavic Festival

4. Berries, Bluegrass & BBQ Festival

Location: Anderson
When: Annually in May
Highlights: Celebrates strawberry season with berry-themed dishes, barbecue, and live bluegrass music.
Website: Berries, Bluegrass & BBQ Festival

5. Missouri Food Truck Fest

Location: Springfield
When: Annually in September
Highlights: One of Missouri’s largest food truck gatherings, featuring a diverse array of cuisines, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Website: Missouri Food Truck Fest

6. Roots N Blues Festival

Location: Columbia
When: Annually in May
Highlights: A premier music festival featuring blues, folk, and Americana artists, complemented by local barbecue and craft beer.
Website: Roots N Blues Festival

7. St. Louis Street Food Festival

Location: St. Louis
When: Annually in August
Highlights: Features the area’s best food trucks and restaurants, with all food items priced at $5 or less, along with live music and entertainment.
Website: St. Louis Street Food Festival

8. Missouri Garlic Festival

Location: Hermann
When: Annually in September
Highlights: Celebrates all things garlic with cooking demonstrations, garlic-inspired foods, and local garlic growers.
Website: Missouri Garlic Festival

9. Taste of St. Louis

Location: St. Louis
When: Annually in September
Highlights: Showcases the city’s culinary scene with restaurant tastings, cooking competitions, and live entertainment.
Website: Taste of St. Louis

10. Apple Butter Makin’ Days

Location: Mount Vernon
When: Annually in October
Highlights: A fall festival celebrating apple butter with live demonstrations, crafts, and a variety of food vendors.
Website: Apple Butter Makin’ Days

These festivals offer a taste of Missouri’s diverse culinary landscape, from traditional dishes to innovative food creations.

Foods Of Missouri-St. Louis arch on the river

Missouri’s food culture is a celebration of its history, diversity, and culinary creativity. From the smoky barbecue pits of Kansas City to the sweet indulgence of gooey butter cake in St. Louis, every bite tells a story of the state’s rich heritage and evolving food traditions. Whether you’re exploring the vineyards of Hermann, savoring toasted ravioli in St. Louis, or enjoying a bowl of chili with cinnamon rolls in a small-town diner, Missouri’s flavors will leave you craving more. Plan your visit and discover the delicious delights that make the Show-Me State a food lover’s paradise!

Here are Facebook hashtags to accompany your Missouri food festivals article:

#MissouriFoodFestivals
#TasteOfMissouri
#MissouriEats
#ShowMeStateFood
#KansasCityBBQ
#StLouisEats
#FestivalOfNations
#MissouriFoodie
#GarlicFestivalMO
#RootsNBlues
#TasteStLouis
#AppleButterFestival
#BluegrassAndBBQ
#FoodTruckFestMO
#StLouisStreetFood
#MissouriStateFair
#SpringfieldFoodFest
#LocalFlavorMO
#SweetMissouri
#SlavicFestival
#BerriesAndBBQ
#HermannWines
#MOAppleDays
#CulinaryMissouri
#MissouriFoodLovers

These hashtags will help enhance engagement on Facebook posts, reaching users interested in Missouri’s culinary events and food culture.

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