More of a bar than a restaurant.
In fact there is a large bar in the center of the otherwise small facility with tables scattered around it. This creates two problems, noise and their failure to enforce a stated no-smoking policy creates an environment where it's hard to appreciate the dining experience of a place that is making some attempt at fine dining.

It's really too bad, because if they were to get away from the "bar" atmosphere they would be on a path to creating something.    [18 Apr 2005 15:38:40]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Mushroom Soup

     ­Anonymous   marcperkel at yahoo dot com

Upscale Bistro dining at Gallery Bistro, Springfield, MO.
This Bistro combines an upscale casual fine dining experience together with a fun atmosphere at the sophisticated bar. The ambiance is warm and intimate. If you prefer a less intimate evening or you are dining alone, the bar is the perfect place to enjoy your fine dining, socialize, and watch and observe the Chef in action!!! However, if a quiet intimate dinner is preferred, you can sit at a table and enjoy the wonderful, unobtrusive service. This is a one of kind restaurant. The menu offers a fine and varied selection of American, Italian, and Asian style foods. Can't wait to return!!!    [01 Jun 2006 23:39:51]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Lamb and fish.

     ­Paddy Cooper, Oakville, Ontario, Canada   paddycooper at cogeco dot ca

More of a Restaurant Than a Bar
I have lived in Springfield for three years and have frequented many of the restaurants that the city has to offer. The Gallery Bistro stands head and shoulders above the rest.

From the first experience I had, to the most recent, the consistency of fabulous meals, fantastic presentation, and knowledgeable, courteous staff has never faltered. The wine list is extensive and the ambiance is intimate and refined. From the succulent steaks to the flakiest of fish, the combination of flavors, textures and eye pleasing presentation make this restaurant my personal favorite. 5 stars across the board!    [13 Jul 2007 01:32:13]

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Recommended Dishes: Tiger Tenderloin; Rosemary Chicken; Mushroom Soup

     ­Tina Pierson, Springfield, MO   

Not sure why it won awards...
It's a quaint little restaurant in the heart of downtown. It has big windows so you can look out into the city. The interior is eclectic with odd pieces of wall art, flowers and vases. But that's about where it ends for me. The wine list has about 20 wines on it. That's not extensive. Especially, when you can visit 10 or so other restaurants in the same area and see triple that. I've never had a bad server there, but they definitely aren't the most knowledgable. (We've had to help ours pronounce specials and open wine before). Which brings me to the food... they sure do love their demi-glace. Nearly every menu item is covered in some kind of demi-glace. Despite this, all four times I've eaten there the food is virtually flavorless. The vegetables were all overcooked, especially the asparagus. Like I said, I've only been there four times. I believe in restaurants having an off night. It's not horrible, but I really don't know why I'd go back.    [21 Aug 2007 02:40:36]

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Recommended Dishes: Their calamari app was pretty good.

     ­Anonymous