Fun fact for the day! Borrowing the local love of fried chicken, Springfield, MO is home to the deep-fried version of an Asian-inspired dish. This nutty, saucy and unbelievably satisfying dish, Springfield-style cashew chicken, is the most well-known dish to come out of Springfield, Missouri.

Yep, nestled in the heartland of America lies Springfield, Missouri, a city not just known for being the home to Bass Pro Shops and Route 66, but also for a culinary sensation that has captured hearts and taste buds worldwide- Cashew Chicken. In honor of this beloved dish and being the home to it, The Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (SCVB) is excited to announce the launch of the one-of-a-kind Springfield Cashew Chicken Trail. This trail is a culinary adventure that celebrates the different ways restauranteurs serve Springfield-style cashew chicken.

Hosted by the SCVB and sponsored by Gold Crown Food Company, the Springfield Cashew Chicken Trail is not only a culinary adventure but also a celebration of the rich history and culture of Springfield. Springfield-style cashew chicken was created by David Leong, a Chinese American chef and innovator. The tasty dish with an Asian twist has reigned in Springfield since 1963 when Leong's Tea House opened its doors and they struggled to gain acceptance for the foods of their homeland in China. Thus came the result of fried chicken chunks covered with Chinese oyster sauce, cashews and chopped green onions. It was an immediate hit with the local crowd. Soon, versions of “Springfield-Style Cashew Chicken” appeared on menus coast to coast and even around the world.

Though Leong's Tea House closed in 1997, Springfield-Style Cashew Chicken's legacy remains a unique part of Springfield's past and present. Today, Springfield is recognized as the birthplace of Springfield-style cashew chicken, and the trail pays homage to its culinary heritage.

The Springfield Cashew Chicken Trail is a self-guided tour that takes food enthusiasts to some of the Springfield restaurants that offer their unique twist on the iconic dish. Participants will have the opportunity to try various cashew chicken recipes, ranging from traditional to innovative interpretations. Whether it is from the dish's origin restaurant, Leong's Asian Diner, cashew chicken and a movie at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, the “Springfield” Sandwich at Chicago Cheesesteak Company, or even cashew chicken from Pa Chan's Asian Kitchen food truck, there is something for everyone. Participants will have the chance to explore the different neighborhoods of Springfield while enjoying this iconic dish.

To participate in the Cashew Chicken Trail, food enthusiasts can sign up for the mobile passport at springfieldmo.org/cashew, check in at each participating location using their phone's GPS, and earn points to redeem for prizes.

Whether you are a local foodie or a visitor seeking an authentic Springfield experience, grab a fork, or chopsticks and enjoy a delicious journey through the city's culinary landscape. Don't miss the opportunity to savor this iconic dish and discover the diverse flavors of Springfield, Missouri. https://www.springfieldmo.org/blog/post/the-ultimate-cashew-chicken-trail-in-springfield-missouri/