Top Restaurants In Cape Girardeau, Missouri

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A fine-dining restaurant, 36 Restaurant and Bar is a newer culinary gem on Cape Girardeau’s restaurant scene. Owned and operated by local residents, John Eric and Vanessa Klein, this venue specializes in New American cuisine imbued with European influences. Within a lovely, elegant yet comfortable interior space, complete with partially exposed brick walls and wooden floors, discerning diners can sample many exquisite dishes, like the pan-roasted grouper on a bed of charred cauliflower purée, Swiss chard, and broccoli. Open for dinner Monday through to Saturday, 36 also offers a host of alcoholic beverages along with desserts, including the favored crème brûlée bread pudding.

Located in the heart of downtown, Bella Italia delights customers with its delectable Italian delicacies. A family-owned establishment, the warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a great spot for any occasion from a night with friends and family to a romantic rendezvous. Highlights of the menu include the lasagna and the angel hair Neapolitan with mushrooms, spinach, roasted garlic, pine nuts, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Established in 1996, Bistro Saffron is a delightful establishment featuring Pan-Asian cuisine. Focusing on traditional Asian recipes with a modern spin, the artfully plated dishes are sure to be a hit with visitors. Delicious items on offer include the vegetarian egg rolls served with a sweet citrus sauce, the panang catfish, and the veggie Thai made with seasonal vegetables and served with jasmine rice and choice of protein. Saffron is open everyday except for Sunday for both lunch and dinner.

Another historic downtown culinary gem, Broussard’s Cajun Cuisine is a lively venue serving zesty Cajun cuisine and classic American dishes. Established over 25 years ago, this restaurant continues to attract diners not only with its zesty cuisine, which is made with top quality ingredients, but also its laid-back environment. Within a colorful interior space, complete with vibrant murals, guests can feast upon flavorful home-style options such as fried catfish served with hushpuppies, the étouffée dinner made with either gator, crawfish, shrimp, or chicken in a creamy white sauce with sautéed onions, green peppers, celery, and spices served over rice.

Founded in 1997 by James and Pat Allen, Celebrations is a fine-dining treat tucked inside a historic house. Featuring an elegant yet relaxing space adorned with art, the restaurant also offers guests the option of enjoying their meal al fresco on a charming, enclosed courtyard. From local purveyors to those outside the region, the culinary team seeks out the freshest, seasonal ingredients for their delectable fare, which changes often. An award-winning wine list plus luscious desserts are also available.

Minglewood Brewery opened in 2014 providing guests with a selection of craft brews along with tasty fare. Located downtown, this brewery features exposed brick walls and wooden floors creating a warm and inviting space where friends can gather to unwind after a long day. Open every day except for Sunday, guests will find great brews such as Minglewood American Stout — their first brewed beer — and Minglewood Tropical Pale Ale with notes of mango and citrus alongside a variety of food. The chicken garlic alfredo pizza topped with chicken, portabella mushrooms, caramelized onions, alfredo sauce, cheese, and buttermilk ranch is one tempting choice. Live entertainment is also featured, which adds to the fun environment.

A family-owned operation, Muy Bueno serves Mexican delights to hungry lunch and dinner patrons Monday through to Saturday. Within a friendly and casual atmosphere, guests can savor a host of items from appetizers to tacos to tamales. Must-try dishes include the al pastor taco with grilled adobo marinated pork, white onion-cilantro garnish and lime, the carne asada burrito stuffed with grilled marinated steak, beans, mayo, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and Mexican cheese and sizzling shrimp fajitas. An assortment of Mexican soft drinks plus other refreshing beverages are on the menu as well.

Established in 1974, Port Cape Girardeau is a downtown restaurant specializing in mouthwatering barbecue. Nestled inside a building steeped in history — it was once an office of General Ulysses S. Grant — this venue features a comfortable space in which to feast upon an array of recipes. The great ambiance is enhanced by exciting entertainment that often includes live music.