Southwest Missouri’s wooded trails, rural roads and charming bike paths take cyclists of all skill levels through some of the best scenery the Ozarks has to o er.
72
Learn about the faces behind 16 woman-owned businesses spread across the Brentwood Center.
Get inspired to plan your own sunset bike ride by reading our feature starting on p.60.
ON THE COVER: This issue’s cover was photographed by Josh Beecher at Trail of Honor in Springfield.
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE POLLOCK ESTES editor@417mag.com
MANAGING EDITOR & BUSINESS EDITOR DORI GRINDER dori@417mag.com
RESEARCH EDITOR JO JOLLIFF jo@417mag.com
CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS EDITOR & STAFF WRITER JORDAN BLOMQUIST jblomquist@417mag.com
EDITORIAL INTERN NADIA FLETCHER
CREATIVE DIRECTOR SARAH PATTON sarah@417mag.com
ART DIRECTOR JORDAN DYKSTRA jordan@417mag.com
SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER BRANDON ALMS brandon@417mag.com
EDITORIAL DESIGNER GRACE CHIPLEY-THOMPSON grace@417mag.com
PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER KATY ST. CLAIR kstclair@417mag.com
EDITORIAL DESIGN INTERN ALEX GODDARD
PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN TORI SWEM
DIGITAL EDITOR JAMIE THOMAS jthomas@417mag.com
DIGITAL MANAGER ELIZABETH VANFOSSON evanfosson@417mag.com
CONTRIBUTORS JOSHUA BEECHER, JORDAN BRITTLEY, TESSA COOPER, CAITLIN CUSTER, TIFFANY ENOWSKI, JJ HEATHERINGTON, SONY HOCKLANDER, JOSH KINGHAM, HEATHER KANE KOHLER, TARYN SHORR-MCKEE, JENNIFER SWENSON, KRISTY TAYLOR, CHUCK TRAVERS, DAN WILLIAMS
PUBLISHER LOGAN AGUIRRE logan@417mag.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AND CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS MEGAN JOHNSONmjohnson@417mag.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JAMI WIGHTMAN jami@417mag.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JANELLE HAIK janelle@417mag.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE KAYLIN HOMAN kaylin@417mag.com
ACCOUNTING MANAGER CARRIE POWELL accounting@417mag.com
AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT INTERN LAUREN LEE marketing@417mag.com
OFFICE MANAGER BERNADETTE PRY bernadette@417mag.com
OPERATIONS MANAGER ERIN KINGHAM ekingham@417mag.com
ACCOUNT SERVICES MANAGER KATHY GRIEVE kathy@417mag.com
ACCOUNT COORDINATOR NICKI SHERWOOD nicki@417mag.com
ADVERTISING DESIGNER KATIE BATLINER kbatliner@417mag.com
ADVERTISING & BRAND DESIGNER MCKENZIE KEY mckenzie@417mag.com
ADVERTISING & BRAND DESIGN INTERN ELLIE MALLETT
GARY WHITAKER gary@417mag.com JOAN WHITAKER joan@417mag.com
417 MAGAZINE 2111 S. EASTGATE AVE., SPRINGFIELD, MO 65809 417-883-7417 • FAX 417-889-7417
GO BEYOND THE PAGES
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo
417MAG.COM
Tasty food, vibrant (and equally tasty) drinks and celebrations are all a part of Cinco de Mayo—and you can nd them all right here in 417-land! We can’t resist a celebration lled with margaritas and guac (who can?) so we created a collection of ways to enjoy the day including festive dishes and drinks from local restaurants, food and drink recipes you can make at home, and local events. Check it out online at 417mag.com/cinco.
417MAG.COM
Mother’s Day is almost here! To help you get ready for Sunday, May 11, we’ve got a list of the best things to do and where to grab brunch with mom. From where to pick up owers and the best places to go for a lazy stroll, to brand new experiences, we’ve got you covered for this year’s Mother’s Day weekend. You’re welcome for the reminder, too. Head over to 417mag.com/mothersday to start planning.
417MAG.COM
Mother’s Day isn’t the only holiday weekend to prep for in May. Memorial Day weekend is coming up at the end of the month, to help you kick o your summer. Spend the long weekend touring some of the Ozarks’ most beautiful waterfalls, plan a perfect Saturday, take a trip to the lake or a dip in a swimming hole, or enjoy one of the many other options we’ve put together to help you unwind. Go to 417mag.com/ memorialday to read more.
417MAG.COM
Speaking of summery activities, when was the last time you visited a u-pick farm? Strawberries hit their peak in May, so now’s the time to head to a local u-pick strawberry farm and stock up! Head over to 417mag.com/strawberry for where to go and some strawberry-centric recipes to make the most of your haul.
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This issue’s feature on p. 60 is all about cycling in the Ozarks. But if you’re a little too wobbly on two wheels and would rather just stay on your two feet when you’re outdoors, we’ve got a roundup for you too. There’s something that just feels right about leaving the indoors or the city behind and setting out into the wild—and southwest Missouri and northern Arkansas are a wonderland of walking and hiking trails, both hidden and super-accessible. We’ve got a list of hiking trials, plus details about how easy or challenging they are along with more tips and tidbits, at 417mag.com/trails.
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Enter to win a bundle of just-say-yes activities for the chance to enjoy your own real-life Ferris Bueller’s Day O . Head to 417mag.com/win for the chance to win prizes from Oasis Hotel & Convention Center, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena and more in 417 Magazine’s Yes Day giveaway.
DON’T MISS A THING
Visit 417mag.com/ newsletters to sign up for the best local newsletters. Table Talk brings you don’tmiss food news every Tuesday, Datebook o ers the top weekend events every Thursday, and House of 417 is your monthly passport to inspired living.
It’s that time of year again! The July issue of 417 Magazine shares our 2025 peer-nominated Top Doctors list. Read it by subscribing now at 417mag.com/ subscribe.
We are a proud member of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the Ozark Chamber of Commerce, the Branson Chamber and Convention & Visitors Bureau, the City and Regional Magazine Association, the Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce, the Home Builders Association of Springfield and the Republic Area Chamber of Commerce.
One of the reasons I love writing about the Ozarks (and editing other people’s writing about the Ozarks) is the relentless pursuit of connection we all share. Almost every story we write has a touch of connection. You might relate to Katrina Hagan, who owns Sensitively Sweet, the bakery o ering treats for just about every food sensitivity and allergy. (Read her story on p. 19.) You might be moved to donate when you read about nonpro t organization Grateful Vase, which brings a little light and joy to nursing homes by repurposing special event owers into colorful bouquets for them. (Read about it on p. 22.) Or you might just be looking for a way to connect with and celebrate your mom this Mother’s Day through local activities and special brunches. (We’ve sprinkled that kind of stu into the calendar on p. 25 and the Taste This department starting on p. 89.)
Our cover story, “Bike the Ozarks,” o ers connection too. All kinds of it. Writer Sony Hocklander knows the trails and outdoor gems of 417-land like the back of her hand.
And although she told me she’s really more of a hiker than a biker, she’s also a great reporter. Her trail knowledge combined with details she dug up while researching this story led to a feature lled with trail suggestions for every skill level and personal stories from Ozarkers who are passionate about cycling.
So how does all that equate to connection? Well, as Elizabeth Barrett Browning said, “Let me count the ways.”
1. When you need to load up on quality time with your family or friends, our “Bike the Ozarks” trail roundups could o er some new places and new ways to do just that. My husband and daughter, Eli and Eloise, have made the Galloway Creek Greenway their own personal father-daughter connection spot. They frequently ride from our home to the trail, where they stop at Kingdom Co ee for a smoothie before continuing on to Sequiota Park to climb rocks and meet some geese before heading back again. They both come home so happy every time they make this journey.
2. These trails quite literally connect different parts of the Ozarks. Take the Frisco Highline Trail, for example. If you travel all of its 35 miles, you’ll see the cities of Spring eld, Willard and Bolivar—and lots of scenic places in between.
3. Reading this feature will connect you with southwest Missourians you might not know about—ones with a passion for BMX racing, one who cycles across the globe and another who aims to bring the joy of cycling to our region’s women.
4. And let us not forget self-care, that elusive but oh-so-important part of a healthy life. Cycling our region’s trails is more than just good exercise. A solo ride can be a meditative experience—a little connection with yourself.
On April 17, we celebrated our favorite holiday of the year: 417 Day! Our team hand-delivered presents and flowers to some of our friends around the Ozarks. And if you happened to look up in Springfield around midday, you might have seen our other big celebratory bit of fun: A cute little red airplane towing a sign that wished a happy 417 Day to folks below. Thanks to CoxHealth, who sponsored the plane and sign, we were able to spread the love to everyone close enough to spot the plane! Here are some of the notes we got throughout the day from folks who saw our message.—Editor
Both of our kids just told us they each saw the 417 airplane flying over their schools today! Beckett said all the Academy of Exploration kids were telling each other “Happy 417 Day!” Love this impact you’re making on the entire community, even the youngest members!
KRISTIN CARTER
Happy 417 Day! Thanks for sending a plane over carline to remind me.
KATIE DAVIS
One spot we visted on 417 Day was Bryan Properties, where we happened to run into Ron Davis. He was the original editor of 417 Magazine, and we were so excited to chat with him. When he messaged us a erward, it was a day-maker for sure.—Editor
You made this cynic’s heart melt and warm. Thank you for all you do to keep 417 a vibrant voice for the Ozarks. I was lucky to be there in 1997. I’m lucky you’re there now. Happy 417 Day!
RON DAVIS
To send us feedback or story ideas, email editor@417mag.com.
ON APRIL 30 MY HUSBAND, DAVE, and I celebrated 20 years of marriage! Although we lived in St. Louis at the time, we chose to get married here in Spring eld where my family lived. We had our ceremony at University Heights Baptist Church, took photos at the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden and threw one heck of a party at The Tower Club. At the time we didn’t know we would eventually live here and drive past that church almost daily when our daughter was involved at Springeld Little Theatre, stroll through Gardens Aglow with our kids on the same paths we walked in our wedding day nest or go to events at The Tower Club two decades later to nd
it looks… exactly the same. Those two fresh faced 20-somethings encountered our share of twists and turns, black holes and blue skies, and just as we promised, we faced it all together. Do I think we’ll make it another 20? I do.
PUBLISHER LOGAN@417MAG.COM
Ready for a sweet blast from the past? Logan and Dave Aguirre’s wedding photo was featured in a 2005 issue of 417 Bride
3, 2, 1, Launch!
Senior Photographer Brandon Alms (along with Editorial Designer Grace Chipley-Thompson and Photographer Katy St. Clair) headed to Springfield Skate Park to photograph local father-and-son BMX duo, Corey and Owen Bradley. “We let Corey and Owen lead and asked them what they could do to help us capture some good action shots,” says ChipleyThompson. “The next thing you know they were flying through the air or grinding down a bar or doing some crazy wheelie thing. Corey told us that when Owen first started, it was so scary to watch him do all these crazy tricks.” As for us, we were just impressed! Read more about Corey and Owen on p. 69.
Free of allergens and full of tasty goodness. That’s Sensitively Sweet, a 417-land bakery that is rede ning treats and fostering community—one scrumptious bite at a time.
BY JENNIFER SWENSON
IN 2022, FRESH OUT OF COLLEGE and working as a designer at Grooms O ce Environments, Katrina Hagan was adjusting to life with a recent lupus diagnosis. A food sensitivity test con rmed that certain ingredients—gluten, rice and corn—were aggravating her symptoms. Determined to recreate familiar avors, Hagan took to her kitchen. She used chickpea our to bake chocolate chip cookies. “I looked up a random recipe and substituted as my heart felt to do,” she says. Her rst attempt was “the most delicious ever”— soft, sweet, and just as satisfying as the cookies she had always enjoyed.
Encouraged, she attempted the cookies a second, third and fourth time. “God knew I needed to get it right on the rst try,” she says, “because those subsequent attempts were failures.” By summer 2022, she had perfected her recipe, and to make a little extra money, she o ered them for sale in a local gluten-free Facebook group.
The response was immediate and positive. As Hagan added gluten-free cinnamon rolls, her side hustle quickly gained momentum. Every Friday, after she wrapped up her workday at Grooms, she met customers picking up orders. Two months after her initial post in the local group, Hagan launched Sensitively Sweet on Facebook.
In November 2022, Farmers Market of the Ozarks invited Sensitively Sweet to join its Thanksgiving event. With only two weeks to prepare, Hagan took the leap. She had no expectations. On the day of the event, a line stretched the length of the pavilion, and within the rst 45 minutes, everything was sold out. Hagan’s husband Alec turned to her and said, “You might be on to something.”
When Alec developed Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS), which causes severe allergic reactions to mammal-derived products, Sensitively Sweet committed to ensuring their products were completely safe. “Up to this point, we’d taken baby steps—free of gluten, egg, dairy and nuts. Now, we were going to do the bakery right or not do it at all,” Hagan says. Sensitively Sweet became Alpha-Gal safe, celiac-safe, vegan, and free from the top 11 food allergens. “Above all, I couldn’t sacri ce taste. There’s a misconception that gluten-free food is dry and cardboard-like, so we worked hard to make sure everything tasted delicious.”
Business boomed, and Hagan left Grooms to focus full-time on the bakery. Throughout 2024, she was a vendor at Farmers Market of the Ozarks, and in November, she opened a storefront in Nixa. During the grand opening weekend, Hagan welcomed over 500 customers. “We were pulling items out of the oven and selling them before we could blink,” she says.
Supported by six employees, Sensitively Sweet o ers a wide variety of allergy-friendly treats, including brownies, pop tarts, sourdough and cinnamon sugar breads. The bakery provides take-and-bake meals, such as chicken pot pies made with vegetarian-fed chicken and a rustic cottage pie, similar to shepherd’s pie. Additionally, Hagan sells baking mixes at Mama Jean’s, Hy-Vee and Brown Derby. Someday, she hopes to open an allergen-free café.
Sensitively Sweet’s treats are undeniably delicious, but for Hagan, the real achievement is the community that has grown around them. “Our society revolves around socialization with food. There’s an entire community that is excluded. People walk through the doors and say, ‘I wanted a brownie, and I was just diagnosed with Alpha-Gal.’ Almost every conversation is about our experiences.” Time and again, Hagan has watched parents come to the bakery and tell their children dealing with allergies or chronic illness, “You can have anything here.” After being unable to enjoy so many foods, the children’s eyes light up in wonder.
Today, Hagan still makes those original chocolate chip cookies, only now she has a 30-quart commercial mixer that can manage 42 pounds of dough. “I am still surprised every day,” she says. “I’m not Houdini. I was just in the right place, at the right time, with the right idea.”
For Lindsey Curry and Grateful Vase, owers represent connection and dignity, a way to ensure that no one—whether seniors, caregivers or hardworking sta —is forgotten.
BY TARYN SHORR-MCKEE
WHEN LINDSEY CURRY and her mother walked into an Arkansas nursing home with a careful of owers in December 2023, they had no idea they were planting the seeds for something bigger. The owers, left over from a styled bridal shoot hosted by Fayetteville’s Tesori Bridal, co-owned by Curry’s sister, were destined for the trash. Instead, they became a literal bouquet of unexpected joy for the facility’s residents and sta . That moment was a turning point. Curry began researching how to start a nonpro t the moment she got home. Grateful Vase launched six months later,
on June 10, 2024—her late grandparents’ wedding anniversary. Inspired by the care they received in long-term care facilities, Grateful Vase, a 501(c)(3) nonpro t, repurposes event orals and decor. They nd new life in senior living homes, hospice centers and memory care facilities across Spring eld and northwest Arkansas.
Spreading the Love, One Bouquet at a Time Hosts who like the idea of their event decor having a second life can request pickup through Grateful Vase’s website or social media. Volunteers retrieve the items after the event, refresh them, and deliver them to a nearby care facility, all within 24 hours.
“We try to give back to the same community they were donated in,” Curry explains. The process is seamless, free—the organization is 100% volunteer-led—and even taxdeductible for donors.
“It’s a very isolated, forgotten-about environment,” Curry says of long-term care centers. “Until you have a family member in one, you just don’t really get it.”
But the impact is immediate. Residents brighten at the sight of fresh owers, and sta , often stretched thin, also appreciate the morale boost. Curry shares, “It’s really ful lling to live and give with purpose, especially in places like these.”
What started as a grassroots e ort has grown rapidly. Solely through word-of-mouth and social media, in early March, Grateful Vase had over 35 con rmed pickups for 2025, with bookings extending into 2026.
Beyond oral deliveries, Grateful Vase is launching new initiatives to engage seniors. In April, in partnership with Spring eld’s He Loves Me Flowers, the organization introduced low-cost oral workshops at care facilities. The one-hour sessions guide seniors in creating their own arrangements, simultaneously fostering socialization and ne motor skills.
A local orist shop in northwest Arkansas will soon host Grateful Vase’s rst workshop there for Alzheimer’s patients and their caregivers, speci cally folks who can’t a ord livein care. It’s a deeply personal endeavor, as Curry’s grandfather battled Alzheimer’s and she witnessed the toll it took on him and her grandmother. “I want our reach to go beyond long-term care facilities and also support caregivers and sta .”
In December, Grateful Vase took its rst steps in that direction, delivering appreciation bags to facility sta working on Christmas Day. Curry hopes to expand this initiative, ensuring those who dedicate their lives to caring for others feel seen and valued.
With a small but dedicated team of volunteers, plus roughly 20 applications in queue, Grateful Vase is eager to grow. Curry actively seeks partnerships with orists, event planners and venues who can encourage their clients to donate. She’s also working on securing a brick-and-mortar space where volunteers can assemble arrangements more e ciently together.
Her ve-year plan? “To have delivered to every single facility in this area and northwest Arkansas, with at least weekly oral events for seniors.”
That vision includes fundraising, applying for grants and expanding the volunteer base across the community. To sign up or donate, head to the Grateful Vase website’s “Support” section. (gratefulvase.com)
“At HM Dent Works, the team treats customers like family, ensuring that each one is taken care of with honesty and fairness.”
At HM DENT WORKS, the team prioritizes customers’ right to choose Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) as the primary option for vehicle repairs, which is often the best choice. As the largest PDR shop in 417-land, they excel at swiftly addressing minor collision damage, door dings and hail damage on vehicles, all with a speed that outpaces traditional body shops. Their method involves restoring dents by reshaping the metal to its original form without the need for part replacements, llers or paint. This not only preserves factory paint but also helps maintain the value of the vehicle.
Their global experience includes traveling the world to tackle hailstorms, but there’s no place quite like the Ozarks, their beloved home. They are dedicated to nurturing the skilled trade workforce of the future through their one-of-a-kind trade school, HM Dent Works Academy, along with their local HM Dent Works repair shop.
At HM Dent Works, the team treats customers like family, ensuring that each one is taken care of with honesty and fairness. They understand that there’s always a unique story behind each hailstorm or dent, and they’re eager to hear it. Contact them today to share your story and discover how quick and straightforward it is to have a vehicle expertly repaired with PDR.
Alabama visits
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena on May 25, p. 33.
The agenda this month: nonstop fun. Fill your days with spring’s best local events.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
Through May 11
See Ariel, Sebastian and Flounder up on stage as you hear your favorite songs from The Little Mermaid (like “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World”) at this Spring eld Little Theatre mainstage performance perfect for families with kids of all ages wanting a night of entertainment.
$17–40; showtimes vary by date; The Landers Theatre, 311 E. Walnut St., Spring eld; spring eldlittletheatre.org
Through May 12
There’s so much new stu to explore at Silver Dollar City’s Spring Exposition festival. The park is debuting its Plaza expansion, a colorful two-story-high Parasol Sky installment over Valley Road, live music at the new Fest House in Red Gold Heritage Hall, a clogging jamboree, ragtime piano music and more. $82 kids, $92 adults; Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy., Branson; silverdollarcity.com
TACO DE SOMO
May 1
This event features tacos made by local restaurants, home cooks and food trucks— plus margaritas, live music and a variety of vendors. While certi ed World Food Judges are judging most contest categories, guests get to vote on the People’s Choice Award. Fun little bonus at this family-friendly event: The chihuahua contest!
$35–45; 6–9 p.m.; Farmers Park, 2144 E. Republic Road, Spring eld; tacodesomo.com
May 1–4
Need to stock up on some great reads to take on your summer vacations? You can nd loads of them at the Friends of the Library Book Sale. Proceeds from this annual spring book sale bene t 10 local library branches and the mobile library. Admission is free, and book prices vary. Saturday is half-price books day, and Sunday is $1 and $5 bag day, where you can ll a sack for super-low prices.
10 a.m.–8 p.m. Thursday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; 1–5 p.m. Sunday; E*Plex at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant St., Spring eld; ozarkempirefair.com
May 1–4
See Spring eld Contemporary Theatre’s performance of this hilarious show that features a Commander-in-Chief caught on a hot mic, and the events that ensue afterward after a team of women work to keep him out of trouble. This comedic and non-partisan Broadway show is described as “an episode of Veep on steroids.”
$27–32; showtimes vary by date; Historic Fox Theatre, 157 Park Central Square, Spring eld; spring eldcontemporary theatre.org
May 2
See art by local and regional artists (and maybe nd a piece to purchase) as you stroll through Downtown Spring eld galleries and shops, like Missouri State University’s Brick City Gallery, the Creamery Arts Center, Fresh Gallery, Obelisk Home and lots more. Free; 6–10 p.m.; Downtown Spring eld; spring eldarts.org
May 2
If Christian music is your jam, then this is your show. Jeremy Camp has won numerous awards, like Billboard’s #2 best Christian artist, ASCAP Songwriter of the Year and more. Spring for the VIP tickets for options like early entry, access to a Q&A with Jeremy Camp, a meet-and-greet photo op and more.
$25–149.75; 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld; gillioztheatre.com
THE RUNAWAY: A MIXTAPE MUSICAL
May 2–4, 8–11
This satirical live musical is a fan ction parody and retelling of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. It tells the story of the
Strawberry season is short but sweet in 417-land. Make sure you find time this month to visit one of 417-land’s you-pick strawberry farms.
Brown’s Berry Farm
Where: Miller
More info: facebook.com/brownsberryfarmmillermo
Crafty Farms
Where: Pierce City
More info: facebook.com/cra yfarmsupick
Gardener’s Orchard
Where: Brighton
More info: gardenersorchardandbakery.com
Bonus: Gardener’s Orchard is hosting several strawberry-centric events this month, including the Strawberry Shortcake Festival on May 3, Mother’s Day Festival May 10, Strawberry Donut Festival May 17 and the Strawberry Festival May 24
High’s Berry Farm
Where: Ozark
More info: facebook.com/highsberryfarm
Missouri Berries
Where: Republic
More info: missouriberries.com
Swiss Berry Patch
Where: Republic
More info: facebook.com/SwissBerryPatch
Tasty Acres
Where: Springfield
More info: facebook.com/AAtastyacres
Stormtrooper FN2187 (aka Finn), who “must decide whether to run from his past or embrace the calling set before him.” This show is a production of Rebels Guild Theatre. Free; 7 p.m. Thursdays–Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays; Creamery Arts Center, 411 Sherman Pkwy., Spring eld; spring eldarts.org
May 3
Fair food fans, this one’s for you! You can sample more than 40 fair food vendors, including all your over-the-top favorites like deep fried Oreos and fried peanut butter and jelly. Local favorite Pineapple Whip will be there too! In addition to the food samples they can purchase, every guest also gets a voucher for two drinks and a corn dog. This Ozark Empire Fair preview event includes the announcement of the 2025 grandstand concert lineup.
6 p.m.; Central Buildings Event Center at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant St., Spring eld; ozarkempirefair.com
May 3
Head to Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters to sip some daiquiris and eat some tasty hot dogs while you listen to great music and peruse the pop-up shops that’ll be on-site. The event’s special guest is Mover & Shaker.
1–8 p.m.; Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters, 1424 E. Cherry St., Spring eld; goodspiritsandco.com/events
May 3
Add a little sweet fun to your run at these unique half-marathon, 10K, 5K and 1-mile races on the Frisco Highline Trail. There’s even a “kids’ dash” untimed race for ages 10 and younger. It’s donut-themed! Runners get a bib, a T-shirt, some fun swag, free photos, a nisher’s medal and a donut at the end of the race.
$20–56 adults, $15 kids; 6:30 a.m. packet pickup, 8 a.m. race start; starts and ends at Willard High School, 515 E. Jackson St., Willard; runsignup.com
May 3
Take your four-legged friend for a day out on the town, as Park Central Square becomes a dog-centric event. There are dog-friendly activities, tasty pup treats, vendor booths from local pet businesses and more.
Free; 10 a.m.–2 pm.; Park Central Square, Spring eld; downtowndogday.com
‘S WONDERFUL
May 3
The nal concert of the Spring eld Symphony Orchestra’s 90th season features a collaboration with the Saint Louis Ballet. It features music by Broadway composers, such as George Gershwin and Richard Rodgers. Works include “Interplay” by Morton Gould, “Carousel” by Richard Rodgers and both “American in Paris” and “Who Cares?” by George Gershwin.
$53–77; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, Spring eld; spring eldmosymphony.org
ARTSFEST
May 3–4
This outdoor juried art exhibition hosted by Spring eld Regional Arts Council features booths lining Historic Walnut Street, showcasing art from more than 100 artists from across the region and the country. Also at the event are kids activities, tasty food vendors, live entertainment from local performers and more.
$5; 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; located along Historic Walnut Street in Downtown Spring eld; spring eldarts.org
BUFFALO RIVER GUIDED PADDLE & LOST VALLEY HIKE
May 4
Join the experienced guides with 37 North Expeditions on a day of exploring some of the best sites in northwest Arkansas. They drive you down to Arkansas for a paddling trip down the Bu alo National River. After that, they drive you to Lost Valley Trail to explore on foot. The Bu alo National River is known for its scenic
bends and towering blu s, while Lost Valley Trail is a 2.3-mile easy to moderate trail that ends with a view of Eden Falls.
8 a.m.–8 p.m.; $198; trip departs from Farmers’ Park, 2144 E. Republic Road, Spring eld, 37northexpeditions.com
May 4–5
May 8
Take Mom out to do something special this Mother’s Day: create a unique fragrance that’s perfect for her. Guests can munch on snacks and co ee while learning all about fragrance families and how to blend di erent scents to create a custom perfume. Register in advance.
Get into the gardening spirit at this annual event that o ers greenhouse and garden tours, food and product vendors, live entertainment and more. The event includes talks from guest speakers covering topics related to gardening, farming and heirloom seeds.
Free to attend, $15 per vehicle to park; 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company, 2278 Baker Creek Road, Mans eld; rareseeds.com
May 6
Blues artist Kenny Wanye Shepherd is the recipient of ve Grammy nominations and two Billboard Music Awards. You won’t want to miss special guest Bobby Rush. He’s won three Grammy awards, 14 Blues Music Awards and is a Blues Hall of Fame inductee.
$49.50–152.50; 6:30 doors, 7:30 show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld; gillioztheatre.com
May 8
Concerts in the Wild is a new series at Dickerson Park Zoo. Each concert features a di erent musician, and proceeds bene t Friends of the Zoo and its work to support zoo projects and operations— including the conservation education department. This month’s concert features Spring eld-based vocalist Bryan Copeland. Tickets include entry into the zoo and the concert.
$5–20; 6 p.m.; Dickerson Park Zoo, 1401 W. Norton Road, Spring eld; nd more info at dickersonparkzoo.org
$45; 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m. or 7 p.m.; Cassidy Station at Estes Farms; 5176 N. Fremont Road, Nixa; cassidystation.com
May 8–17
Kids who have read The Giver (and those who haven’t too!) will love this Spring eld Little Theatre performance of the play based on that novel by Lois Lowry. This show is part of Spring eld Little Theatre’s Youth Entertainment Series.
$15; 7 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays; The Reynolds Auditorium at The Judith Enyeart Reynolds School of the Performing Arts, 237 S. Florence Ave., Spring eld; springeldlittletheatre.org
May 9
Comedian and actor Denae Hayes brings hilarious southern characters to the stage and is known for her parody country music songs. If you opt for the VIP tickets, you get priority seating, and access to a Q&A. This show is for ages 12 and older.
$30.50–100.50; 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld; gillioztheatre.com
May 10
For those curious about gardening, this all-day event o ers a chance to meet with the folks who maintain the gardens at Spring eld Botanical Center, to learn about plant diversity and more.
Free; 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Spring eld Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene/ Close Memorial Park, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Spring eld; friendsofthegarden.org
May 10
Hairball is an arena rock tribute band that plays the music (and adopts the look!) of stars like KISS, Queen, Journey, Van Halen, Aerosmith, Motley Crue and more. VIP tickets also include express entry and parking, free dinner and more.
$29–80; 5:30 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show; Black Oak Amphitheater, 1728 State Highway H, Lampe; blackoakamp.com
May 12–26
It’s all about the music at this annual Silver Dollar City festival, where bluegrass greats take the stage. Performers include The Kody Norris Show, Nothin’ Fancy, Rhonda Vincent and more. And what goes better with good music than good food?
Barbecue is highlighted as well.
$82 kids, $92 adults; Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy., Branson; silverdollarcity.com
May 16
Grab your cowboy boots and your favorite person, and head to Sycamore Creek Family Ranch for their monthly Barn Dance. Guests can participate in two-stepping and line dances, and the event is fun for all ages.
$9–16; 7 p.m.; Sycamore Creek Family Ranch, 2657 Sunset Inn Road, Branson; sycamorecreekfamilyranch.com
May 16
See country singer and songwriter Lee Brice perform some of his best hits at this concert. Some of his Billboard Country Airplay No. 1 tunes include “Hard to Love,” “I Don’t Dance” and “A Woman Like You.” VIP tickets also include express entry and parking, free dinner and more.
$45–149; 5:30 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show; Black Oak Amphitheater, 1728 State Highway H, Lampe; blackoakamp.com
May 16
The band Silver Springs brings the spirit of Fleetwood Mac to the stage in a tribute that any Fleetwood Mac fan would love. The event is filled with familiar tunes and both the look and feel of a Fleetwood Mac concert.
$29–69; 6:30 doors, 7:30 show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; gillioztheatre.com
May 16–18
Take your whole crew to see Springfield Ballet’s talented dancers take on two beloved works in this year’s spring production. The Springfield Ballet will be performing Swan Lake Act II, with the addition of Peter & The Wolf . This family-friendly show is for all ages.
$25–35; 7:30 p.m. Friday, noon and 5:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday; Landers Theatre, 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield; springfieldlittletheatre.org
May 16–18
Take your littlest theater fans to see their favorite honey-loving bear on a Hundred Acre Wood stage. Of course, Piglet, Tigger, Owl, Rabbit and more will be there too, as they head out on a mission to rescue Christopher Robin. This show is part of Springfield Little Theatre’s Education Series.
$6–10; 7 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday; The Studio Theatre at The Judith Enyeart Reynolds School of the Performing Arts, 237 S. Florence Ave., Springfield; springfieldlittletheatre.org
May 17
Get a little glitzy for this evening supporting the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. There is music, dancing, great food and more. The theme this year is “The Music Vault” to celebrate the organization’s 90th anniversary, and the
Bu alo National River in northwest Arkansas is a true treasure— and one you need to oat early in the season while water levels are still ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Visit this month to see the river’s famously beautiful blu s. Here are two ways to do it.
Go with a Guide
If you’d like a guide alongside you for your trek down the river, 37 North Expeditions has you covered. They offer fun combo trips that include a guided paddle on Buffalo National River followed by a hike at nearby Lost Valley, with transportation included. The event is great for beginners and experi -
enced paddlers alike (including families, as long as the kiddos are 7 or older) and is offered on May 4, 26 and 31. Visit 37northexpeditions.com for info and registration.
Go Solo
If you don’t want to visit with a guide, then a good kayak and canoe outfitter is all you need. Buffalo Outdoor
event features live music by Diamond Empire Band. Don’t miss the live and silent auctions. Proceeds support artistic programming, educational concerts, free concerts and more.
$175; 6 p.m.; University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center, 333 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield; springfieldmosymphony.org
May 23
See Christone “Kingfish” Ingram and Samantha Fish take the stage at the Gillioz as part of their Gone Fishin’ Tour—along with special guest Matthias Lattin. These contemporary blues artists have played at Eric Clapton’s 2023 Crossroads Festival and joined Slash’s
Center in Ponca, Arkansas, is a good option. They offer transportation to a few different put-in and take-out points along the Upper Buffalo, and they even have several nearby cabins if you need to book overnight lodging too. Visit buffaloriver.com for more information and to reserve a canoe or kayak.
2024 S.E.R.P.E.N.T. blues festival. If you love blues guitar, this is the show for you.
$49.50–99.50; 6:30 doors, 7:30 show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; ozarkslyricopera.com
May 24
Ozarks Lyric Opera and the Missouri Jazz Orchestra join forces for this unique performance that blends jazz and opera. The opera arias and duets have been “reorchestrated and revised for the full jazz big band experience.” It’s a must-see for music lovers who appreciate the art of genre-blending.
$30–50; 6:30 doors, 7:30 show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; ozarkslyricopera.com
BY JEFF ROSE
Find Her Signature Scent
May 8
Cassidy Station at Estes Farms is hosting a Mother’s Day Workshop where guests get a chance to blend their own custom perfume scent with help from the folks from Aroma Design Perfume Bar. Bonus: There will be some tasty treats on hand too, like Do you have a crafty mom who loves a handson workshop? Treat her to something special this month with one of these fun and creative local activities, all taking place on or around Mother’s Day.
co ee and homemade cookies. Find more info at cassidystation.com.
May 11
Finley Farms is teaming up with flower artist Hannah Klein for a Pressed Flower Frames Workshop. You’ll learn how to press dried flower petals to design a
ALABAMA
May 25
See this beloved country band take the stage at Thunder Ridge Arena, where guests get to enjoy a Table Rock Lake view while they watch the show. Alabama has been making music since 1969 and saw especially great success in the 1980s with hits like “Tennessee River,” “Mountain Music” and more. The band is joined by special guest Pat Green.
7 p.m.; 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com
SUNDAY SUPPER CLUB
May 25
Every month, Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters offers a multi-course Sunday Supper Club event with dishes prepared by local chefs, often using local ingredients. Seating is limited to 24 at this intimate event.
$60; 4–8 p.m.; Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters, 1424 E. Cherry St., Springfield; goodspiritsandco.com/events
OZARKS FOOD TRUCK RALLY
May 31
There will be more than 25 food trucks in attendance at this delicious event, where you have the chance to taste a
piece of framed art, and Klein will share some handy floral design tips. Visit finleyfarmsmo.com for info and to register.
Craft a Candle
Ongoing
Head to Loomi Candle Bar & Gi s in downtown Springfield to hand-pour your own custom-made candle. There are loads of fragrances to choose from, which you can mix and match to your heart’s desire. The spot has plenty of vessels for your candle too, so you can find one to match your style. Find details and make a reservation at loomicandlebar.com.
variety of delicious eats from around the region—from barbecue and desserts to tacos, burgers and more. There is also live music from four bands throughout the day. This event is free to attend, and guests can purchase food and drink from the vendors.
11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Central Buildings Event Center at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant St., Springfield; ozarkempirefair.com
OZARKS LUNKERS
May 31
The Ozarks Lunkers 2025 Arena League season—their second ever!—is underway. It kicks off this month with a game against the Kansas City Goats. Other home games this summer include June 8 against the Hot Springs Wiseguys, July 5 against the Duluth Harbor Monster and July 12 against the Iowa Woo.
$15–50 individual games, $50–180 season tickets; 7:05 p.m.; Wilson Logistics Arena at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant St., Springfield; ozarkslunkers.com
you ever been there for a Springfield Cardinals race? This race starts and ends at the stadium, and the event is packed with Cardinals fans! Runners can sign up for 9K, 5K or 1-mile runs, and there’s also a kids fun run for the youngest athletes. All runners get some swag, like a T-shirt, finisher’s medal, bib, photos and a free ticket to that day’s Springfield Cardinals game.
$30–55 adults, $10 kids; 6:45 a.m. packet pickup, 7:30 a.m. races start; Hammons Field, 955 E. Trafficway St., Springfield; runsignup.com
Through June 1
This special temporary exhibition at History Museum on the Square shares the history of Springfield’s Jewish community from the 1860s through today, including their contributions to the city. $10 kids, $26 adults museum admission; open Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Sun. 1–5 p.m.; History Museum on the Square, 154 Park Central Square, Springfield, historymuseumonthesquare.org
Ongoing
Cruises on the Lady Liberty yacht run March through September. They include a scenic cruise on Table Rock Lake and live entertainment, plus food and drink. Dates vary as the season progresses.
$120 adults, $70 kids; Long Creek Marina, 1368 Long Creek Road, Ridgedale; bigcedar.com
Ongoing
REDBIRD RUN
May 31
You’ve been to Hammons Field for a Springfield Cardinals game, but have
It’s the perfect time to enjoy America’s pasttime. This month, your Springfield Cardinals’ home games at Hammons Field have them facing off against the Northwest Arkansas Naturals on May 1–4, the Amarillo Sod Poodles on May 13–18 and then the Northwest Arkansas Naturals once again on May 27–31. Game times and ticket prices vary; Hammons Field, 955 E. Trafficway St., Springfield; springfieldcardinals.com
Life is good. As we move through life’s seasons, there will be changes. But there are local professionals to help guide us through those changes so that we can thrive. Stay comfortable. Stay active. Stay surrounded with love and friends and family and health. We’ll help guide the way for aging well.
417-869-1118
TLCPROPERTIES.COM
TLC SHUTTLE PROPERTIES: THE ABBEY, MONARCH, VERANDA VISTAS AND CORYELL COMMONS
Friendships blossom within TLC Properties’ network of 55+ communities. TLC’s enriching shuttle bus program gives residents the opportunity to not only form relationships with their next-door neighbors, but also to be among a larger, citywide community of other TLC Properties 55+ residents. In total, the shuttle bus serves four properties: The Abbey, Monarch, Veranda Vistas and Coryell Commons.
The buss-ling schedule features multiple weekly outings, taking residents to local venues, such as the Spring eld Symphony Orchestra and Cardinals games at Hammons Field, as well as farther destinations like Downstream Casino Resort in Joplin and The Landing in Branson. From lunches to late-night lounging, there are an assortment of activities for nearly every interest.
The shuttle’s attendance has ourished with TLC’s commitment to a resident- rst approach. This program prioritizes providing residents with engaging social interactions within the local community as both friends and neighbors. You’ll also often see their co-founder, Dr. Sam E. Coryell, joining residents for events. His attendance points to the connectedness and attention to feedback from residents that TLC strives to incorporate at the heart of all of their programs.
417-289-8424
SEROTONINCENTERS.COM
1344 E. BATTLEFIELD RD., SPRINGFIELD
Serotonin Centers Spring eld is a destination for health, wellness and anti-aging solutions. Offering a holistic approach, Serotonin provides an extensive range of services, including medical weight loss, hormone optimization, red light therapy, body sculpting with EMSCULPT neo, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, IV infusions, Botox, dermal llers, Hydrafacials, microneedling with PRP or exosomes and medical-grade skincare.
Members bene t from biweekly health coaching sessions; monthly InBody scans to track visceral fat, skeletal muscle mass and body fat percentage; and 24/7 access to their health coach through a user-friendly app. Serotonin Centers conducts a comprehensive blood panel and sits down with clients to discuss both their lab results and how they are feeling to develop the best plan of action for them.
The experienced team includes a general manager/nurse injector with 11 years of nursing expertise and a nurse practitioner with seven years of practice along with a medical director with 40-plus years of experience in medicine. They emphasize steady, personalized care, building relationships that inspire con dence and loyalty.
Simmons Private Wealth is a premier provider of trust, investment management and duciary services. The team provides a comprehensive approach to wealth management, which includes structuring client portfolios to meet nancial goals, personalized nancial plans and estate planning and administration.
One of the keys to success is focusing on building strong, long-term client relationships. Taking the time to understand the values of each client, goals and concerns is crucial as it fosters trust for the advice and services that clients receive. The team helps bring peace of mind to protect the wealth clients have built and optimize strategies to ensure it lasts beyond their lifetimes while serving as a trustee.
Each team member’s expertise is leveraged to provide clients with the best possible advice and solutions. This includes bringing together tax professionals and estate planning attorneys, among other professionals, to ensure all aspects of a client’s nancial life are properly coordinated. The team also provides investment solutions to foundations and endowments. Simmons Private Wealth is backed by Simmons Bank, which holds $26.9 billion in assets across six states in the Mid-South. The private wealth division custodies over $6 billion, with approximately $1.5 billion of client assets managed from the Spring eld of ce.
417-582-7141 | RESTOREFAMILYCHIRO.COM 5240 N. TOWN CENTRE DR. STE 102B, OZARK
Restore Family Chiropractic provides personalized corrective care chiropractic services, including decompression therapy, exercise education and in-house digital X-rays. Dr. Zach, with nearly a decade of experience and training under some of the best doctors in the country, is committed to achieving exceptional results. The practice combines multiple techniques to ensure each patient receives specialized care tailored to their needs. With a warm and welcoming environment, Restore Family Chiropractic focuses on creating a positive experience where patients feel at home. Dedicated to helping people live pain-free, the team emphasizes education and proactive care, ensuring every patient reaches their full health potential.
us July 23–24, 2025 at the Branson Convention Center for our largest annual women's leadership event yet.
sponsored by
IF YOU THINK LEARNING AN OUTDOOR SPORT IS JUST FOR KIDS, THINK AGAIN. IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO TRY SOMETHING NEW.
DOES SWINGING A CLUB or a paddle sound fun? Learn how to play golf or pickleball at a Park Board location. If you like water sports, local instructors can teach you to sail over the surface of a lake or dive beneath it. Do something fun for yourself this summer by taking lessons in recreation through one of these local organizations.
A cross between ping-pong and tennis, pickleball is the hot trending sport of the decade. Pickleball courts have multiplied across our city (and many others), and people of all ages are playing. To join the fun, take lessons! The Spring eld-Greene County Park Board o ers two-hour Pickleball Beginner Clinics on May 10, July 19, Sept. 13 and Nov. 8 at the Dan Kinney Family Center, 2701 S. Blackman Road, $20
Learn a new skill indoors or outdoors this summer with local golf, sailing, scuba diving and pickleball experts who offer classes throughout the season.
“Do you feel le out when golfing friends head
for
the nearest course? It’s never too late to learn how to putt, chip and drive. ”
for Family Center members and $35 for non-members. The instructor-led class for teens and adults teaches fundamentals, terminology, serving and returning, proper court rotation, rules of the game and how to keep score. The beginner class is best for newbies and those who have only played a few months. The Park Board also o ers intermediate clinics. Pre-registration for classes is required.
Learn more and register for clinics at parkboard.org/pickleball; call the Park Board at 417-891-1500.
There’s a certain romance paired with adventure when sailing across a breezy lake, and you’re in luck if that appeals to you. That’s because Spring eld has a sailing club with members who conduct lessons on Fellows Lake. The club o ers three basic programs from spring through early fall. Club members recommend signing up for First Sail if you’ve never sailed before. This “try it” program includes two hours on the water with an instructor ($120 total for up to three people). The next step is taking an Intro to Sailing class, a four-hour lesson for beginners ($200). Last, lessons for any level are $50/hour for two hours minimum. Once you’re pro cient, rent a sailboat from the Fellows Lake Marina.
To contact the club about lessons, email spring eldsailingclub@gmail.com or send a message through the club’s Facebook page. Learn more or join the club at spring eldsailingclub.com.
Do you feel left out when gol ng friends head for the nearest course? It’s never too late to learn how to putt, chip and drive. That’s because the Rick Grayson Golf School isn’t just for kids. Award-winning PGA teacher Rick Grayson o ers a two-day golf school each month March through October for adults and teens. Participants learn to putt, chip and drive on a Saturday, then combine those skills for play on Sunday. The school ($350) includes group instruction and individual attention. In addition, Grayson o ers 45-minute to one-hour lessons for individuals ($80) or a pair ($60 each), tailored to a budding golfer’s needs. The school also o ers camps for kids, individual lessons for improvement and more.
Call 417-823-7888 to sign up for golf school or individual lessons. Learn more at rickgraysongolf.com.
Whether you’re keen to explore beneath the surface of Table Rock Lake or in tropical waters, learn how to scuba dive through Diventures, a local business that also hosts swimming lessons. If you want to dive down to 60 feet, take the SSI Open Water Diver certi cation course with skilled instructors and a variety of diving equipment. Evening and weekend classes include eight to 10 hours of digital learning at home; classroom and pool sessions with instructors; and nally, four open water training dives, which can occur in local waters or on a certi cation trip with Diventures. Not quite ready to commit or wondering if it’s for you? Start with a twohour “Try Scuba” lesson where you can try equipment and learn to breathe underwater. Try Scuba lessons ($100) are o ered May 4, 11, 18 and 25, and continue in June and beyond.
Register for scuba lessons and nd more information at diventures.com; or call 417883-5151.
Madison County is home to the Castor River shut-ins, a scenic mustsee while there.
SPEND A WEEKEND IN MADISON COUNTY, WHERE RIVERS WIND THROUGH WOODED CONSERVATION AREAS AND THE POSSIBILITIES FOR EXPLORATION ARE VAST.
BY NADIA FLETCHER
WHEN YOU WANT TO EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS BUT DON’T want toventure too far from home, head to some of the farther-away corners of the Ozarks. Two conservation areas tucked within Madison County (about four hours east of Springfield) contain beautiful clear-water rivers coupled with forests teeming with wildlife. For those with wanderlust and a desire for a getaway, the Silver Mines Recreational Area and the Amidon Memorial Conservation Area provide hiking, swimming and fishing experiences. Both areas will satiate the desire to travel while remaining close to home.
The Silver Mines Recreation Area, home of the St. Francis River, provides a variety of campground options, excellent access to hiking beside the river and a vast range of land to explore. Cody Norris, Public Affairs Officer for Mark Twain National Forest, has firsthand experience camping in the recreation area. In addition to the camping opportunities, visitors are welcome to fish or kayak.
With a canopy of trees surrounding you as you explore, you might encounter deer, turkey, squirrels, coyotes and eagles. If you intend to fish, flathead, channel catfish, bluegill, crappie and species of black bass live within the river.
If you are taking a day trip, about an hour away from the Silver Mines Recreation Area is the Amidon Conservation Area, also known as Pink Rock to the Fredericktown locals, which houses the Castor River shut-ins and has similar amenities to Silver Mines. Clayton Lewis, a conservation agent for the Missouri Department of Conservation, has patrolled and visited the shut-ins multiple times. He finds the entire area beautiful and enjoys hiking up the pink granite boulders to find the perfect fishing spot. “The Castor River shut-ins are a unique spot in southeast Missouri.” he says.
Travelers are drawn to the clear water to cool off in the summer heat. Lawn chairs are great to bring for sitting in the shallow end of the water. The varied tiny waterfalls never fail to capture visitors with their beauty and serene sound of rushing water. “If you like to see wild places and not have to drive out west or somewhere else, [the shut-ins] are here in local Missouri. It’s great. You feel like you’re in the mountains and it’s southeast Missouri,” Lewis says.
Both conservation areas will surprise you with their serene beauty that is witnessed through the clear-water rivers, mountainous landscape, and the fishing, hiking and swimming opportunities. You can’t go wrong with a memorable Ozarks getaway at these unique destinations.
Take the Scenic Route
Wind back to Fredericktown before heading home, and you can pop into the Azalea Festival (May 1–4). This annual event celebrates azalea season and has all the hallmarks of a quirky small-town festival, including a pet show, diaper derby and parade with loads of homemade floats. This year’s theme is Dusty Trails & Tall Tales of the Wild West.
BY SONY HOCKLANDER
Cue the Music
Any warm-season visit to Mountain View can’t help but include a lot of toe-tapping with ddles, banjos, guitars, washboards, vocals and more. Music is the heartbeat of this small Ozarks town known as the “folk music capital of the world,” where impromptu performances break out on A RICH TRADITION OF MUSIC, QUAINT SHOPS AND EASY ACCESS TO OUTDOOR RECREATION MAKE HISTORIC MOUNTAIN VIEW THE PERFECT GETAWAY.
porches, in front of the Mountain View Music Store and under gazebos in what’s known as Pickin’ Park at the town square.
Like to plan ahead? Look for scheduled live music on the square’s main stage at the courthouse and in venues like the Club Possum Event Center near Main Street and the Jimmy Driftwood Music Barn on Arkansas 5. Check the town’s calendar (mountainviewarkansas.com) for festivals, too.
The Mountain View Iris Festival, May 2-3 on the square, features iris sales, street dancing and music. Mountains, Music & Motorcycles, Aug. 15-17, is a rally with music, vendors, stunt shows and classic cars.
Shopping, Dining & More
Learn more about the community’s cultural heritage at the Ozark Folk Center State Park. The center features an artisan craft village, a gift shop, a theater, Heritage Herb Garden and the Skillet Restaurant. Shop
Main Street boutique and antique stores, plus the Arkansas Craft Guild & Gallery for ne arts and crafts. At Mellon’s Country Store on Arkansas 5, nd artsy fashion, toys and old-fashioned candy.
Hungry? Main Street dining includes Tommy’s Famous A Pizzaria, serving Mountain View since 1991. Or try PJ’s
Rainbow Cafe for Southern cooking with daily specials and cat sh dinners. Start your morning at The Rusty Cup Ozarks, a co ee shop and cafe that serves breakfast, lunch and baked goods.
O Main Street, stop by the Mountain View Donut Factory on Sylamore Avenue for old-fashioned hand-made goodness.
Fly shing for rainbow trout on the White River and Sylamore Creek lures people to Mountain View to sh on their own or hire a guide from local resorts.
The scenic Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, 13 miles northwest of Mountain View, is a must-visit. Start with a short path to see the pretty springs spill from a cave, then add an easy hike on the .9-mile Mirror Lake Trail for a picturesque view of the three-acre lake (a good place to sh!) and its dam waterfall. Continue on a rugged trail to the base of the falls and old mill ruins.
A GREAT TRAIL, GORGEOUS BLUFFS AND A SWIMMING HOLE MAKE THIS BUFFALO NATIONAL RIVER DESTINATION AN IDEAL OUTING.
BY SONY HOCKLANDER
THE BUFFALO NATIONAL River, located about 1 hour 40 minutes away from Springfield in northern Arkansas, offers a variety of hikes. One favorite is the Indian Rockhouse Trail, which starts at Buffalo Point located near Yellville, Arkansas.
The moderate 3.5-mile trail features a sinkhole, a waterfall, rock formations and beautiful, sculpted bedrock cascades along Panther Creek.
The trail’s centerpiece is the massive bluff shelter, which has been visited since 7000 BC according to the National Park Service.
There’s more to Buffalo Point than one great trail. Once a state park developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, the river destination includes additional trails, a ranger station, bathrooms, basic and RV camping, cabins and access to the Buffalo River near the huge Painted Bluff. Buffalo Point is also the only section of the national river park to include a seasonal restaurant, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and on weekends from late April and May. (The same concessionaire manages the cabins as well.)
After hiking the Indian Rockhouse Trail, take advantage of lengthening days by adding the easy 1.3-mile looping Overlook Trail to enjoy sweeping views of the river. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy along the riverside beach where the Painted Bluff makes a perfect backdrop.
Don’t forget your bathing suit! Buffalo Point is a popular summer swimming hole. Or you can arrange with an outfitter to go tube floating. But if you’re keen to paddle the river here, you’ll have to launch upstream and take out downstream. While a concrete path provides easy downhill access for walking to the riverbank, there is no boat launch.
Like ghost towns? Take an interesting side trip 15 minutes from Bu alo Point. The Rush Historic District near Rush Landing was once a thriving zinc mining community a er the mineral was discovered in the late 1800s. That resulted in a boom of mining companies including the largest, Morning Star, which operated until 1931. Today you’ll find interpretive exhibits, trails and deteriorating buildings that date back to 1899 in the abandoned town that’s protected as part of the Bu alo National River.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
AS FULL-TIME professionals and busy parents of two young boys, Jared and Ti any Taylor designed their new home’s oor plan and interior with comfort and functionality in mind. With the help of Lisa Crowder, owner of Crowder & Co. Design, they created a warm, e cient and inviting space on the south side of Bolivar, minutes from the city. “It was a joy to translate their aspirations into a cohesive design, balancing aesthetics with functionality,” Crowder says. “We focused on soft textures, layered lighting
and a neutral yet rich color palette to create a space that truly feels like home.”
Jared and Ti any have been married for nearly 17 years, and they have a 12-year-old son named Henry and an 8-year-old son named John. Jared is a loan o cer at Oak Star Bank, and Ti any works for Acrisure— an insurance company. “Both Jared and I have grown up in the Ozarks our entire lives,” Ti any says. “All of our extended family is around here, so we have some deep roots.”
In March 2023, they completed their dream home, a process that was both exciting and entirely new to them. Neither Jared nor Ti any had been through the process
The Taylor family enjoys their cozy home with family game nights together.
of building or designing a home before— they both grew up in the same houses their parents still live in now. With Crowder’s guidance, they created a space that feels both sleek and cozy. “I told her that we spend a lot of time in our house—it’s our home base,” Ti any says. “It’s where we recharge. I want it to feel very, very cozy, but I also want it to feel clean. I told her that I didn’t want a lot of white… She did an amazing job of making it feel warm, but also feeling very, very fresh.”
The hues throughout the house remain peacefully neutral, with balanced pops of color here and there. Modern elements are complemented by touches of natural wood.
“A cozy home isn’t just about aesthetics— it’s about livability.”
—Lisa Crowder
When it came to the oorplan, the Taylors wanted an open concept in the main part of the house, perfect for entertaining guests. Crowder picked out a large sectional for the living room—big enough for all four of them to gather and enjoy movie nights together. They also prioritized a spacious kitchen island with no sink or stovetop impeding the space. “It’s a great place to put all the appetizers and set up a drink station, and everybody can hang around the island but still have access to the dining room and the living room,” Ti any says. “We can all see each other and be together.” That space has also become the perfect spot for weekly family game nights.
One of the most used spaces in their home is a serene screened-in deck. With each lot spanning about three acres, their neighborhood o ers a feeling of country living while still being just minutes from the heart of Bolivar—near grocery stores, shops and restaurants. They spend a lot of time out on the deck in the spring and summertime, enjoying family meals and soaking in the Midwest weather. Sliding doors leading to the deck allow the outdoor space to feel like an extension of their home. Crowder also helped them select outdoor furniture that perfectly complements the space.
Every area of the home was designed with e ciency in mind. As a family constantly on the go—juggling sports, work and busy schedules—the Taylors wanted their home to o er a sanctuary where they could easily relax and unwind. “A cozy home isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about livability,” Crowder says. “We carefully designed these spaces to be as functional as they are beautiful. From a welcoming kitchen to a serene bedroom retreat, every space was tailored for both comfort and practicality, ensuring the home feels warm and livable for years to come.”
BRING FRESH AND COLORFUL INGREDIENTS INTO YOUR KITCHEN BY FORAGING FOR SPRING’S MOST EDIBLE WILDFLOWER, THE VIOLET.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO IGNORE THE MISSOURI WILD VIOLETS sneaking into the cracks of your sidewalks, yard and garden edges this spring. This vibrant ower, whether in small bunches or in sweeping clusters, brings a beautiful display of violet color, but their beauty isn’t the only useful thing weed-like owers bring to the season. These tiny little gems can be recognized by their rich color and unique ower with two petals pointing up and three pointing down. Most violets do not have a true stem—the leaves grow directly from the ground, just like dandelions. Along with adding to spring’s emerging color palette, wild violets play an important role with pollinators, acting as a host to a speci c species of butter ies called fritillaries, known for their chessboard pattern and likeness to monarchs. The larvae of these butter ies need to feed on spring violets to survive the season.
Violets have been used for hundreds of years, medicinally and as food. Most violets are edible, including the white, purple, blue and multicolored varieties. Yellow violets are harder to nd in the area and may not be as tasty as their purple and blue counterparts. One should note that African violets are not edible and are part of a di erent plant family. Violets are among the most fragrant wild owers found in the Ozarks, making them excellent sources for teas and perfumes.
When foraging for wild violets, you should know the area well enough to know if it’s been treated with chemicals, and of course always leave enough owers for wildlife and pollinators. Picking violets after a spring rain can be a wonderful experience, and the owers are usually very happy after a good rain. The petals are delicate, so be careful when plucking them from the grass. The calyx of a violet is the cup-like base of the ower that’s made up of ve green sepals. You want to pick beneath that. The whole ower (including the calyx) can be used to toss into spring salads, or you can make sugared violets to add to cakes. Author and expert forager Rachel West adds them to quiche and freshly baked cookies, by simply adding them toward the end of their baking time.
One of the most popular ways to enjoy the sweet oral avor of wild violets throughout the season and beyond is making violet syrup. Local conservationist Siw Shauni Hauger loves foraging for violets each spring and making her own syrups. “The most important part of making violet syrup is to remove all green bits, as they will make the avor grassy rather than fruity oral,” says Hauger. “So the whole calyx has to be removed.” Hauger uses her syrups to make cake glazes and beautifully colored frosting. “It’s also great in cocktails or mocktails,” she says.
Ingredients:
1 cup of violet petals, gently packed, stems and calyxes removed
1 cup of water
1 cup of sugar
In a glass bowl, add your petals and pour one cup of boiling distilled water over them. Stir well with a wooden spoon. Pour one cup of sugar into the bowl and gently stir the sugar until it dissolves completely. Place it on a hot pad to cool. Strain the violet-infused water into a clean jar using a fine-mesh strainer. This beautiful syrup will keep refrigerated for six months.
PEEK INSIDE
AUTUMN DAWN SHARES THE DETAILS OF HER DIY, MOODY BATHROOM REMODEL.
BY JO JOLLIFF PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS
SINCE MOVING INTO HER 1920S HOME, AUTUMN DAWN and her husband have worked to slowly tackle remodeling. “I moved in in 2018 and I knew that I had to renovate it,” she says. “I’ve touched every single surface in this house.”
Her Instagram @earthlyautumn has captured her DIY journey, with projects from a replace redo to an o ce update complete with beautiful built-ins. Dawn takes her followers along with her through each project, showcasing how to tackle overwhelming projects by taking it step by step with empowering encouragement for women to try it for themselves.
Her latest project encompassed a moody bathroom remodel. While the structure was true to the original 1920s space, the furnishings had last been remodeled in the ‘80s. “It was a pretty drastic remodel,” Dawn says. “The layout wasn’t functioning correctly. There was a closet that took up a lot of space in the bathroom that was just a linen closet, and the plumbing was older.”
Dawn’s vision for the space was to create a spa-like environment with an ode to the original space. “I wanted to update it while leaving some of the 100-year-old character charm and then getting rid of the things that were done in the ‘80s like the tan tile and wallpaper,” she says.
She began the remodel with a complete gut down to the studs. “The demo work of it is actually not as intimidating as people think,” she says. “You kind of just jump in and start tearing things down. You know what’s inside of a wall so you can just kind of start tearing into it. For this project I had to take out all of the plaster, so it was extremely dusty; that was probably the worst part.”
While not having any formal work experience with large-scale remodeling projects such as this, Dawn drew from her knowledge of past DIY projects and the help of her father and brother, who are both local contractors.
“My experience comes from living in this house,” she says. “This bathroom is actually the last room that hasn’t already been renovated. So I’ve really just learned through experience. Luckily, I come from a long line of contractors so I have some great resources.”
After the demo, her brother helped her in building the walls, running new plumbing and electric and laying the tile. She used the empty space to determine what made the most sense for the layout, making space for the most important things on her checklist: a walk-in shower, clawfoot tub, oating toilet and spacious custom vanity.
As for the style, Dawn went into the project with a clear idea in mind. “I knew I wanted to do something really bold in this bathroom,” she says. “So I worked with
“The demo work of it is actually not as intimidating as people think. You kind of just jump in and start tearing things down.”
Sharon Taylor. She’s an interior designer, who is also a neighbor and close friend.”
After reaching out to Taylor for advice on how to approach the bathroom to give it a fresh, bold look she suggested a metallic tile series from Missouri Tile. “I found this dark blue tile that I fell in love with,” Dawn says. “It’s very metallic, so it’s dark, but not too dark because it re ects in the light. It’s a smaller space so I didn’t want to do anything that would make it look smaller, so it’s still bold but brings in light.”
Dawn also purchased the marble hexagon tile and marble baseboard from Missouri Tile. “I really think those added to the luxurious feel,” she says.
To stay true to the original space, Dawn kept the original built-in between the two windows, the original door and the crystal doorknobs. Then to further home in on the style of those features, she added antique decor from Etsy like the chandelier and toggle dimmer light switches, and opted for unlacquered brass handmade faucets.
One of her favorite personal touches is the custom vanity made by Justin Stewart. For ease of access, Dawn requested that Stewart include plug-ins for her hair tools inside the drawers.
Each detail of the project came together to transform the space into the bathroom of Dawn’s dreams.
“Everyone who has walked into the space has had such a physical reaction to it because it just makes such an impact,” Dawn says. “It feels like such an experience being in there, even just when simply taking a shower; the way the tiles light up, it’s just like you’re constantly looking at art.”
FROM RIDING RURAL ROADS AND WOODED TRAILS TO ROLLING by urban public art and charming local businesses, it’s hard to beat exploring the Ozarks from the seat of a bike. Faster and more exhilarating than pedestrian adventures, cycling helps people discover scenic spaces that may be hard to reach by foot or by car.
Pedaling mountain and road bikes around the Ozarks isn’t new, but Spring eld and other local bergs are ramping up ways to make communities more bicycle-friendly. That includes creating additional on-street shared routes, bike lanes and paved multi-use trails like Ozark Greenways and public/private e orts to build more mountain bike trails to meet the needs of the accelerating o -road trend.
The Greenways network reaches scenic areas throughout Spring eld, from the southwest Wilson’s Creek Greenway between Tal’s Trailhead and Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park to the northeast Fulbright Spring Greenway between Ritter Springs and Lost Hill parks.
Riding long-distance is more accessible than ever with the rapidly growing e-bike market. Don’t have one in your stable? You can rent one at Bike Branson near Table Rock State Park or at several locations in Bentonville.
Mountain biking in Spring eld has been served for nearly three decades by the Sac River Trails, the city’s OG hand-built network for hikers and o -road riders. Southwest Missouri is rapidly expanding o -road destinations and today, riders can nd more than 75 miles of trails within an hour of the city. Trail networks include Two Rivers Mountain Bike Park south of Nixa, the thrilling downhill trails of Howler Bike Park near Branson and the fun, owy network of Dirt 66 trails at Fellows Lake. Learn about all those and more in our robust roundup.
Many more trail networks are just a couple of hours away in northwest Arkansas. Making a city bike-friendly is good for tourism, as nearby Bentonville has shown with its growing reputation as a mountain biking hub. It’s close enough for a fun day trip or for an extended weekend of cycling. No matter what kind of two-wheeled adventure you prefer, you’ll nd bountiful ideas in this feature. As spring rolls into summer, It’s a great time for Queen City cyclers to “get on your bikes and ride!”
WRITTEN BY SONY
HOCKLANDER
The Frisco Highline Trail’s mostly flat terrain is a great option for families.
Try one of these easy trails if you’re a beginner or are in search of a
FRISCO HIGHLINE TRAIL
Between North Spring eld and Bolivar Trail type: Paved & gravel
Payo : Scenic rail-trail, historic stops
Choose your favorite section or ride the entire 35-mile trail between Spring eld and Bolivar for a scenic rural experience along the old Frisco Highline railroad. Ride roughly eight paved miles between Kearney Street and Willard trailheads for the easiest outing. The new Willard outpost, Mile 6 Taproom, makes a fun, thirst-quenching trailside stop with indoor and outdoor seating.
DOGWOOD CANYON NATURE PARK
O Missouri 86 in Lampe
Trail type: Paved
Payo : Waterfalls, scenic stops, other activities
Bring your bike or rent one to ride the six-mile out-and-back trail at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. The 10,000-acre manicured park with an entry fee ($12.50-$20 single day) makes a great day trip with breathtaking waterfalls, dining, a museum and other activities including trout shing, guided tours and more.
GALLOWAY CREEK GREENWAY
Along Lone Pine Avenue near Sequiota Park
Trail type: Paved
Payo : Galloway Village shops, dining, breweries
This popular north-south trail between Pershing Middle School and the James River Greenway runs along Galloway Village, packed with reasons to stop along the way. Sequiota Park on Lone Pine Avenue—with a lake, cave, picnic areas and more—is a great place to start or pause your ride. End your outing with a meal at Galloway Grill or a craft beer at 4 By 4 Brewing Company.
SOUTH CREEK GREENWAY
Between McDaniel Park and Tal’s Trailhead at Kaufman Road
Trail type: Paved
Payo : Spring eld Botanical Gardens, Drummond Lake, Horton Smith Golf Course
Much of this trail is level but expect a few hills. Plan to start your ride at the Spring eld Botanical Gardens in Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park to include visits at the Roston Native Butter y House, Drummond Lake, Gray/Campbell Farmstead and Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden. Ride from McDaniel Park to cross the bridge on Campbell Avenue.
Northeast Spring eld near Missouri 13
Trail type: Paved
Payo : Scenic rural parks, creek views, historic structures
This beautiful seven-mile trail connects two rural, scenic parks—Ritter Springs and Lost Hill—and ends at Truman Elementary School. One good spot to start is the David C. Murray Trailhead near the South Dry Sac River. Ride west toward Ritter Springs or east along the newest trail section toward Lost Hill, a lovely place to stop and explore.
Table Rock State Park, Branson
Trail type: Paved
Payo : Lake views, marina, Dewey Short Visitor Center
This family-friendly two-mile path hugs Table Rock Lake between the state park’s marina and the Dewey Short Visitor Center. You might even see the Showboat Branson Belle sail by. There are several spots along the trail to park and go. Don’t miss the visitor center to learn more about the lake through interactive nature and history exhibits.
Whether riding on pavement or dirt, local cyclist Cari Harrison helps women connect on two wheels.
CARI HARRISON IS PLUGGED into Spring eld’s bike scene in more ways than one.
Not only was she active through a bike shop she owned, Harrison has been a longtime leader with Missouri O -Road Cyclists (MORC), ending two years as president last December.
She’s also a founding member of Cycle Connect 417, a riding organization for women established in 2023. Harrison is the board secretary for CC417 in 2025.
Harrison is excited for Cycle Connect’s third season, which launched in April with the return of monthly rst-Saturday rides divided into three skill-level groups. Rides include social time afterward.
Cycle Connect encourages women to get out on a bike no matter their experience, Harrison says. “It’s such a safe
spot to go and be yourself and enjoy the sport and other women,” she says. “We’re about encouragement and positivity and inclusiveness.” Harrison, a former runner, says she turned to riding after an injury. She started with a road bike but missed running in the woods so purchased a mountain bike, too. “I spent six months on Sac River Bike Trails just getting lost and crashing and falling over, trying to learn how to (ride) until I nally emerged a mountain biker,” she says.
She made many friends through Frisco Bicycle Rental Sales and Service, the small shop she and husband Matt established in 2018 in Willard. While the shop was successful, they closed it in 2022 because it took too much time from her daughters, Harrison says. Today Harrison works as an independent contractor for the Bass Pro Shops Fitness Series.
As much as she loves road riding, encouraging women to try mountain biking is important to Harrison too. Last summer through MORC (partnering with Ozark Greenways, TrailSpring and City Utilities), she helped plan a run/cycle event for women called She Du: A Woman’s O -Road Duathlon, which took place at Fellows Lake. “Almost all the CC417 women showed up in support,” she says. Harrison hopes to facilitate a beginner mountain bike ride through CC417 this summer. “When I started mountain biking, I didn’t know any women in town with a mountain bike, so it was a very solo adventure for many, many months,” Harrison says. “Ladies need a place to meet other ladies with mountain bikes, so I would like to bring back that culture of women only—and very beginner-friendly, so that nobody feels intimidated.”
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just getting started, ride with a local cycling group for connection and camaraderie.
From: Italy
Why join: Find camaraderie and community with local women cyclists of all skill levels through planned monthly no-drop rides and other events. Enjoy social time before and after rides at a local establishment. (Sorry guys, this social group is just for gals.)
How to connect: Learn more at cycleconnect417.com. Watch for information about monthly rides and other activities on the Cycle Connect 417 Facebook page. No membership fees are required.
Cycle Connect 417 riders head out together on a local trail.
Why join: Find a club experience with a newsletter, sponsored rides, learning opportunities, discounts and other bene ts. The club’s primary mission is to promote safe cycling.
How to connect: Learn more and become a member at springbike.org (annual fees are $20/$30 for a family). Watch for club meetings, rides, events and announcements at facebook.com/ SpringbikeBicycleClub or on Instagram at @Springbike417.
Why join: More like a social group organized through Facebook than a club, riding to see a sunrise is the primary goal for participants. Co ee afterward is a bonus for those not heading to work.
How to connect: Join Spring eld Sunrise Co ee & Bicycle Club’s public Facebook group to participate. You’ll nd posted rides and lots of sunrise photos.
Why join: This sponsored cycling club organizes a variety of group rides from easy social outings—that may include food and brews afterward—to faster-paced rides for more advanced skill levels. Many, but not all, rides start on the south side of town.
How to connect: Follow the club at facebook.com/ride417cycling to nd posted rides and events. The club also has a Strava page.
Why join: SYCC’s mission is to get more kids on bikes, build condence on trails, train for competitions and learn skills for all experience levels. Kids in grades 6-12 can join an introductory ride to meet the team and see what it’s about. No prior experience is needed, all skill levels welcome.
How to connect: Learn more and sign up at missourimtb.org and follow Spring eld Youth Cycling Club on Facebook for events. The Missouri League runs July 1 to the end of October. Contact Dustin Davenport (Team Director) or Mike Gordon (Head Coach) at syccbikes@gmail.com.
MISSOURI OFF-ROAD CYCLISTS (MORC)
Why join: Connect with other mountain bikers, whether you already ride or want to learn. The Spring eld chapter of the International Mountain Bicycling Association, MORC promotes responsible riding and facilitates events and activities for a wide variety of skill levels.
How to connect: Visit missourio roadcyclists.com for information about local trails or to join the International Mountain Bicycling Association. Follow Missouri O -Road Cyclists atfacebook.com/ missourio roadcyclists. There you’ll nd posted rides, nearby volunteer opportunities and other activities. The club also has a private Facebook group.
Ride your fat tires o -road in southwest Missouri, where you’ll find more than 75 miles of excellent trail networks.
South of Spring eld o U.S. 65, Walnut Shade
Trail type: Single-track/downhill
Payo : Adventure cycling, dining/amenities, shuttles
This single and multi-day fee-based downhill trail park has a great base camp with retail, dining, co ee, mechanical support, repit, shuttles and more. The family-owned park features seven miles of professionally built downhill trails with ow, jumps, drops, tabletops, berms and more that cater to intermediate and advanced riders, although there is a beginner-friendly descent for a slight thrill.
Southwest of Nixa near Highlandville
Trail type: Single-track
Payo : River views, scenic forests, trail variety
This purpose-built park 30 minutes south of Spring eld near the con uence of the James and Finley Rivers o ers something for every skill level. With roughly 14 miles of trails designated green, blue or black, riders enjoy low-elevation rides with fun stunt amenities and downhill intermediate or advanced trails with thrilling climbs, drops and rocky features.
North of Spring eld o U.S. 65
Trail type: Single-track
Payo : Fast and owy, lake views, hardwood forest
More than 25 miles of machine-built interconnecting trails on 800 acres feature consistent ow for most skill levels including novice riders. Riders will nd plenty of berms, rollers and jumps for exhilarating rides that feel like a swooping roller-coaster in spots. With several parking areas around the lake, riders can try all the trails.
Northwest Spring eld o Missouri 13
Trail type: Single-track
Payo : Old-school ride, Little Sac River, rural scenery
Spring eld’s OG mountain bike trail system is a favorite for many. Its 14 miles of
interconnecting moderately rugged trails on 300 remote acres were built in 1996 by volunteers. Interesting features include the Little Sac River, small stream crossings and an abandoned silo. With little elevation, there are no tough climbs but there are plenty of challenges for advanced riders.
Table Rock State Park, Branson
Trail type: Single-track
Payo : Hardwood forest, lake views, scenic areas, other activities
This network of looping trails with diverse natural scenery including small waterfalls and some lake views will please intermediate and advanced riders. While a few sections are novice-friendly, most feature moderate climbs, descents and tight turns. The Red Trail features a couple of technically challenging lines with obstacles, tight switchbacks and steep descents.
O U.S. 65 in Highlandville
Trail type: Single-track/double-track
Payo : Steep and challenging, rugged scenery, rock gardens
For advanced riders who like a challenging, rocky-rooty ride with elevation and rock gardens, try Busiek State Forest. While most trails are used for hiking and some include old roads, mountain biking is allowed on some. These are not ow trails; expect to encounter hikers or horseback riders.
The Purple, Blue and Red Little Loop are three popular trail options for those wanting to mountain bike.
Stockton Lake State Park, Stockton Trail type: Single-track
Payo : Lake views, hardwood forest, other activities
Two mountain bike trails at Stockton Lake State Park are hidden gems. Easy to nd, the trailhead isn’t far from the main parking lot. Following the lakeshore, the handcut trails provide about 10 miles of riding entertainment with a mix of terrain and obstacles. While the trails have little elevation change, riders will enjoy their fast, owy design with a natural feel.
JJ Hetherington heads out on Independence Pass, starting on Highway 82 between Leadville and Aspen, Colorado.
Custom home designer and avid cyclist JJ Hetherington enjoys on-road and o -road pedaling in the Ozarks and around the world.
WHEN JJ HETHERINGTON isn’t designing custom homes and buildings, the owner of Hetherington Design Build Inc. enjoys riding one of his many bicycles on local and regional trails, and once or twice a year, on a cycling-centered vacation.
Hetherington says mountain biking— something he grew up doing in Idaho—is a favorite pastime. He enjoys local trails, especially the Dirt 66 network at Fellows
The Katy Trail is a must-ride trail for cyclists who love adventure, scenic rural views, historic sites and delicious stops for food and drink. Here are two ways to tackle the trail.
If you haven’t cycled a section of the Katy Trail, put it on your short list. The state park trail runs along the former MissouriKansas-Texas Railroad with 26 trailheads between Clinton and Machens. At 240 miles, the crushed limestone trail is the longest of its kind in the United States.
Cyclists on the Katy pedal by charming small towns, rural historic sites, Missouri River views, scenic vistas, quirky trail art
and four restored historic railroad depots. Rolling near dozens of restaurants, wineries, cra breweries and lodging makes the Katy a flexible experience.
Whether planning a single- or multi-day adventure, choose which towns to include and plot your route from there. (Tip: bikekatytrail.com is a helpful tool.) One
Lake. In Arkansas, he’s drawn to Bella Vista’s Back 40 system and the epic Syllamo Mountain Bike Trails near Mountain View. Road cycling came later, inspired more than a dozen years ago by a client who was taking cycling tours in Europe, the Rockies and around the world. Hetherington decided to try road cycling too. He and his wife Becky bought bikes, trained for six months and traveled with his client and friends to ride through the French Alps. Since then, Hetherington has cycled through Michigan, Oregon, California and many other places.
He says viewing natural scenery from the seat of a bike is 100 times better than seeing it through the windshield of a car. “Because you’re wide open to nature and you can see all around you and you’re going seven or eight miles an hour. I also like to stop and take a moment, to have lunch on the side of a mountain lake.”
That’s why he rides regional areas too, especially in Arkansas, near the Mulberry River area, doing the Razorback Greenway, or riding around Ponca and Jasper.
Around Spring eld, he and Becky enjoy riding back roads around Fellows and McDaniel lakes, riding east of U.S. 65 toward Stra ord, or riding down Old Wire Road. Since he designs or builds houses around Greene County, it’s easy to map new routes to try later on his bike, he says.
Hetherington says Spring eld has exploded into a cycling town compared to 10 or 15 years ago. “I think there’s been a whole lot more people interested,” he says. “And I love it.”
trail section from Boonville to Rocheport (13.5 miles) makes a nice family day out with rail-themed amenities including the Rivers, Rails & Trails Museum and Visitors Center and the historic Katy Depot. Plan to spend time in Rocheport’s quaint shops and have a meal at Meriwether Café and Bike Shop.
Ride 25.6 miles between Rocheport and Hartsburg for scenic blu s, Missouri River views and quirky stops like BoatHenge—six fiberglass boats standing vertically from the ground. Take a refreshing riverside break with friends at Cooper’s Landing or reward yourself
A Springfield father and son duo shares a passion for BMX trick riding.
COREY BRADLEY AND HIS 16-year-old son Owen share an adventurous passion: BMX riding. At 47, Corey says he’s among the last riders his age still doing tricks at the Springeld Skate Park, which also caters to BMX bikes. Owen holds a part-time job there while maintaining A’s at Parkview High School.
Recently, Owen has earned attention through online interviews on FATBMX, the BMX Network (fatbmx.com), and has become a young rider to watch. Not only is Owen winning competitions, he and his father are sponsored by Reds BMX, a Spring eld shop that actively supports the local BMX community.
It’s no surprise that Owen excels at BMX riding. Corey has jumped curbs and executed freestyle tricks since he was a kid and never grew out of it.
Owen’s passion for freestyle ignited after a friend of his father’s from Kansas came for a visit. Owen was playing video games when the friend invited him to join them at the nearby skate park.
It was the rst time Owen learned to drop in on ramps. He was hooked and he’s been riding and practicing tricks ever since. Last November, father and son competed in Wisconsin—Corey in the 35+ class and Owen at the intermediate level. Owen won rst place.
While the Bradleys share a passion, they ride two di erent ways. Corey rides a Standard bike with front and back brakes. Owen rides a red brakeless Cult brand bike. Owen says his favorite tricks are bar
spins. “So when you’re riding your bike, you’re holding onto the grips—the bars— and that’s when I take both of my hands o and I spin it in the air. Both wheels are o the ground.” Corey says he likes doing front brake tricks, which are “kind of a lost art.”
Corey says he rides BMX in his 40s as a release: “Whenever you start riding when you’re young, you do it for fun, you know? And now it’s just to get your mind o of real life, like a little bit of an escape.”
in Hartsburg at The Hitching Post. The 35.5-mile trail section between McKittrick and Augusta—including a three-mile spur to Hermann—makes a full day out or a great weekend away. This is Missouri wine country—although you’ll find plenty of breweries too. River views, blu s, Peers in Marthasville (a restored historic general store) and the Augusta Winery are a few fun stops along this popular section of the Katy.
BIG BAM ON THE KATY
For a festive experience with other cyclists June 1-7, register for Big BAM on the Katy.
The supported ride by Bike Across Missouri covers 226 miles that stretch between Clinton and St. Charles.
Registration fees include SAG support, water, snacks, co ee, libations and more. Hang out with friends and other riders nightly while listening to live music.
If you can’t do all six days, choose any three or join the fun on the last day (“Li’l Bam”). Fees range from $75 to $450; participants can also purchase pre- and post-ride shuttles between St. Charles and Clinton.
For overnights, book hotels along the way. Or arrange with BAM for tent service (additional fee), which includes luggage
delivery to designated camping areas, e-bike charging stations and access to a shower truck with clean towels, shampoo and soap. Another option: Rent a PHAT Room—an air-conditioned space with up to four bunks in a trailer that travels to each site.
SAG will monitor the road route and trailheads along the Katy between 6 a.m. and 5 p.m. Riders can call for help or catch a shuttle to nightly destinations if needed. Water filling stations will be at every trailhead. And while riders are responsible for their meals, BAM will share recommended restaurants and arrange food trucks or catering where options are limited.
Bentonville
Trail type: Single-track
Payo : Flowy trails, progressive features, Crystal Bridges art
Backing up to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art near the Razorback Regional Greenway, the 40+ miles of Slaughter Pen trails include something for every rider level from beginner to advanced, with connector trails helping riders get to various hubs. Find clean ow, drops, jumps, bermed turns, major downhills, technical elements and more.
Bella Vista
Trail type: Single-track
Payo : Waterfalls, springs, long runs
Haul your bike to Arkansas for easy and epic mountain bike trails that lure
The growing network of trails in Bella Vista provides 100 miles of variety. The 6-mile Blowing Springs loop skirts waterfalls, springs and blu s. The Back 40 system weaves up and down through ridges and valleys for grinding climbs and thrilling descents. The newest section, Little Sugar (named for the creek), features big berms, narrow tracks, drops and jumps.
Eureka Springs
Trail type: Single-track / downhill
Payo : Lake views, shuttles, other activities
Lake Leatherwood will satisfy riders whether they love the adrenaline of Gravity Trail Project downhill runs or prefer 25 miles of challenging cross-country trails around the lake. For downhill runs, a shuttle (with fee) takes riders to a launch site. Beginner trails are smooth and owy, intermediate trials are technical and rocky and expert slopes include massive jumps.
Lake Atalanta, Rogers
Trail type: Single-track / hard surfaces
Payo : Scenic, lake views, bike park
This scenic trail, a regional favorite, loops around Lake Atalanta. Several spurs feature swooping bridges, short steep climbs and gravity cavities. The trail, which connects to downtown Rogers, also includes
the Railyard Bike Park, a hard and natural surface pump track-style playground for skill building, with jumps, drop-o s and more for all skill levels.
COLER MOUNTAIN BIKE PRESERVE
Bentonville
Trail type: Single-track / downhill
Payo : Stunning scenery, camping, classes
This award-winning destination trail system showcases great rides on more than 17 miles of trails. The park also o ers classes, guided rides, camping, walking trails and a scenic outdoor environment with amenities like an onsite cafe. World-class mountain bike trails include owy jump lines, gap jumps and thrilling downhills.
Devil’s Den State Park south of Fayetteville
Trail type: Single-track
Payo : Park amenities, historic trails, blu s and waterfalls
With beginner options like the 3-mile Outlaw Loop, Racers Hill for a workout and Devil’s Racetrack, one of the region’s most epic trails, it’s worth visiting Devil’s Den State Park for mountain biking alone. The Devil’s Racetrack leads behind a waterfall and around enormous rock formations.
HOBBS MONUMENT TRAILS
Hobbs State Park, Rogers
Trail type: Single-track / downhill
Payo : Downhill dirt tracks, lake activities
At this part of the 40-mile Monument Trail system, nd several interconnecting trails owing downhill to Beaver Lake. Access the trails by heading east on the Tunnel Connector from Hobbs’ visitor center. Trails drop riders through karst outcroppings on their way to the lake.
HORSESHOE CANYON RANCH
O Arkansas 74 near Jasper, Arkansas
Trail type: Single-track / downhill
Payo : Mountain views, other adventures
Bring your own bike or rent at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch. The fee-entry natural park in the heart of northwest Arkansas o ers day-use and overnight stays. Its growing mountain bike trail system winds through boulder elds, streams and the ranch.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST PHOTOGRAPHED BY KATY ST. CLAIR
At 417, we love highlighting all the amazing businesses in the Ozarks. These 16 female-owned businesses, all based in the Brentwood Center, are making their marks. Meet the ambitious women behind them.
BONNIE NOLEN HAS BEEN IN THE CANDY BUSINESS since 2001 and has cherished the chance to create a unique experience for every customer who walks through their doors. “Whether it’s designing a custom box of chocolates, putting together a mix of Swedish gummies or crafting a corporate logo in chocolate, each interaction is an opportunity to bring a smile to someone’s face,” she says.
Bon Bon’s Candy House has been part of the Spring eld community since 2002, originally located in the Parkcrest Shopping Center. In 2019, it relocated to Brentwood, where Nolen says customers genuinely embrace shopping locally and appreciate the special touches of a locally owned business. “There’s something inspiring about being surrounded by other female-owned businesses, all radiating a positive energy that re ects our shared dedication,” she says. “We each put our hearts into our work, which shines through in every detail of our stores. Together, we create a magical shopping experience that makes Brentwood Center a truly special destination for our community.”
WHEN CHARITY FENT’S SON REQUESTED AN ARMY tank truck cake for his 14th birthday, she was determined to make it happen—and she decided to try baking it herself. That experience sparked a newfound passion for baking, and soon after, she launched a home bakery, where she operated her business for the rst 10 years. “It was just too much with the volume I was doing, so I decided I needed to nd a space to open a storefront,” Fent says. “My heart was always set on looking in Brentwood.”
Today, Charity Fent Cake Design is best known for its custom cakes, but its popularity has also grown thanks to cake cups and more than 10 avors of ooey gooey bars. Fent loves working in Spring eld, appreciating its small-town charm. “I am able to make those personal relationships with my customers and get to know them and their families,” she says.
NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE IS WELLknown for its Deli Tomato Soup and egg salad sandwiches, but it’s best known for its owner, Nancy Miller. Nineteen years ago, after losing her job in the stainless-steel manufacturing industry, Miller bought the restaurant from its original owners. Since then, she has created a warm atmosphere where both customers and sta feel like family. “I love to see my customers enjoying what they nourish their bodies with,” Miller says. “Food builds relationships and getting to be part of that just makes you happy.”
As a business owner, Miller aims to lead by example. “Be kind and appreciate what your sta does for you and your customers,” she says. “My sta knows that I will help with any task, from busing a table to washing dishes, xing plumbing to mending chairs. But we also have fun!”
You can read our full story on Miller at 417mag.com.
WHEN THEY PURCHASED BLACKWELLS IN 2022, the store’s location in the Brentwood Center was a top factor for owners Lindsay Seifried and her husband, Je . Blackwells is known for upscale men’s clothing, o ering custom suiting and carrying an array of casual clothes. “Lots of people love to shop when they travel,” Lindsay says. “With Blackwells, you can nd unique styles you’d normally have to travel for, right here in the Brentwood Center.”
Lindsay is dedicated to staying on top of what’s next in fashion, o ering customers the newest and best products. “Our customer needs to look and be ready for the board room, the conference stage and the clubhouse,” she says. “We want to be meeting their style needs with new brands that bring performance, style and comfort together in one.”
JENNY BAKER HAS ALWAYS LOVED fashion and the idea of curating e ortless, a ordable everyday styles. In 2017, she turned that passion into Clothe Boutique. “Brentwood was ideal because it’s across from the mall with great visibility,” Baker says. “I’ve loved seeing it grow over the last few years with so many new small businesses.”
Clothe is known for its wide variety of styles at accessible prices, with new arrivals each week that keep customers coming back. A few years ago, Baker expanded Clothe with a second location in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and she’s now planning to open a third location within the next year. “The ever-changing trends and styles are what keep me passionate and motivated,” Baker says. “I love to see what’s going to be big each season.”
WHEN MISTY HAMPSHIRE AND HER husband, Andy, heard the previous owners of Farmers Gastropub were looking to sell the restaurant and retire, they jumped at the opportunity. “With Andy being British, a British-themed pub seems like the perfect t for us,” Misty says. “They were already located in the Brentwood Center, so we embraced that and have developed the equivalent of your ‘local’ pub in England.”
Misty handles the business side of things, while Andy runs the day-to-day operations. “We both approach leadership with the idea of treating people the way we would want to be treated,” she says. She says her passion for food keeps her motivated each day, and in 2023, they opened their second restaurant, JW’s Kitchen.
GRACIE’S BRIDAL HAS BEEN OPEN FOR 18 years, and Kamryn Hesington and her husband, Jacob, bought the business in 2021 after she had been working there for several years. “I absolutely fell in love with the bridal business and knew there was nothing else I ever wanted to do with my life,” she says.
In February, she expanded her vision by launching Something Blue & Co., Gracie’s Bridal’s sister brand, which carries all kinds of fun bridal accessories. Through both businesses, Kamryn leads with an encouraging and uplifting style, and she is grateful for the opportunity to empower and uplift women in the community. “I have a heart for brides and for the 417 community,” she says. “It drives me daily to come up with new and innovative ways to serve them.”
WITH A BACKGROUND IN EDUCATION, TESS PENNANEN never imagined she’d be a business owner, but that changed in October 2024 when she and her husband acquired National Home Products—a store in the Brentwood Center best known for interior home nishings. The business has been around since 1978, and the Pennanens plan to expand and broaden the store’s product o erings in the near future.
As Pennanen develops her leadership style, she aims to lead with kindness and appreciation for all her employees. “We love owning a business in Spring eld because of the kind, friendly and collaborative people, from our builders to our residential customers,” she says. “This community is especially meaningful to me, as I grew up in southwest Missouri.”
GROWING UP IN A RETAIL ENVIRONMENT, Lauren Haik always knew she wanted to own a store. Her father worked as a department store buyer before opening his own showroom as a manufacturer for houseware merchandise, immersing her in the retail world from a young age. Eighteen years ago, Haik purchased The Market from its previous owner and has since transformed it into a go-to destination for gifts, home décor and apparel. “The one thing that motivates me is finding a line or product that I love that I know is good and know other people will love,” Haik says. “I’m constantly always looking for new products or new ideas that are coming out to the market. It’s always that desire to find the next big thing.”
LORI HILL, VIVO’S ORIGINAL OWNER, OPENED the rst location in 2006 alongside Jana Myers and Jen Liles. Their goal was to create a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable—surrounded by friends who uplift and inspire them. Myers and Liles say they bring di erent sets of skills and lessons learned that allow them to mesh perfectly. “We push each other constantly while maintaining that high level of respect for the other’s viewpoints and ways of working,” Liles says.
In 2016, Myers and Liles relocated ViVo to the Brentwood Center for a more convenient commute for 417-land clients and increased daily foot tra c. They both love being business owners in Spring eld because it gives them a sense of pride.
“Our ViVo community isn’t just a roster of clients,” Myers says. “They are longtime friends whose stories and experiences have become a part of our daily lives at ViVo.”
MEGHAN CHAMBERS IS STAXX AND JELLYBEANS’ fearless leader! For over 20 years, Chambers has driven Staxx’s success in being on-trend and a popular spot for any woman looking for something for a date night out, vacation, conference or day at the lake. Her leadership style is collaborative, empowering her team to share their ideas and take ownership of their roles within the business.
Leading the team at Jellybeans has been a full-circle moment for Chambers—she worked there as an employee in high school! She purchased the business in 2010 and has been catering to infants up to tweens ever since.
You can read our full story on Chambers at 417mag.com.
UPTOWN BOUTIQUE HAS BEEN OPEN since 2011, but it made its move to the Brentwood Center in 2024. Owner Sarah Schaeffer purchased the business during her senior year of college. “I love owning a business in Springfield because it’s still kind of that small-town feel,” Schaeffer says. “Eighty percent of the people that come through my door, I know their name and a little bit about them.”
Schaeffer has built a solid online store and digital presence, but ultimately, she keeps her doors open to interact with customers and build friendships. She encourages her employees to be passionate about their work at Uptown Boutique and steps in only when necessary, allowing them to learn on their own.
SANDY PARK AND HER HUSBAND, JOHN, were both working as nail technicians in Monett and commuting two hours daily—this went on for 15 years. “We knew we had always wanted to eventually have a business in Springfield but the thought of it was daunting since we had built such a long-term clientele in Monett,” Sandy says. “After having my daughter and with my son about to start school, we decided it was time to be a part of the community and started our business.”
In the past six years, Sandy and John have built a business in Gloss known for their staff’s friendliness, cleanliness and punctuality. Sandy says she teaches her team lessons she wished she had known when first entering the business world.
MONICA ROSENTHAL AND CASSIE Cribbs own and operate Honey + Hive Salon, where both also work as stylists. When they first considered opening the salon, it was Cribbs’ dream, and Rosenthal was happily along for the ride—they knew they couldn’t do it alone. Cribbs is a quick problem-solver, while Rosenthal leads by example. Together, they make quite the team, tackling the challenges of the business world with style and grace. Reflecting on what they wish they had known before opening Honey + Hive 11 years ago; “Don’t sweat the small stuff,” Rosenthal says. “It’s going to be harder and better than you ever imagined,” Cribbs adds.
IN 2008, STEPHANIE LEWIS AND NIKKI LOVE were creating a business plan to open a yoga studio in Spring eld. However, with Sumits Hot Yoga opening at that time, they recognized that the timing wasn’t right and decided to simply enjoy the new studio in town. In 2010, when the opportunity to buy Sumits arose, they jumped at the chance. Once the lease at the original location was up, they moved to the Brentwood Center. “We were and are fortunate enough to need a lot of parking, which our original location didn’t o er,” Love says. “We love it here!”
At Sumits, they o er heated yoga, barre and sculpt classes, and each class is thought out and intentional, with a warm, welcoming environment.
“We have always wanted our students to feel like they’re coming home when they step into the studio,” Lewis says. “Our studio truly is a community that is inclusive, and we hope that everyone feels that way when they walk in the front doors.”
PLAZA SHOE STORE WAS FOUNDED IN 1951 BY Cathy Swearengin’s parents, Robert and Barbra Lee, along with her grandparents, Oscar and Norene Lee. “I am somewhat unique because I never left the family business,” Swearengin says. “I chose Brentwood Shopping Center because of other local independent retailers. I believe we do better together.”
Swearengin’s leadership style is collaborative, as she works with Mallory Garon to deliver the best outcomes for their customers. “I stay passionate about the shoe store because of the people I work with and the positive response we get from our customers,” she says.
Women’s health goes beyond check-ups—it’s about overall wellness at every stage of life. From hormones to mental well-being, nutrition to tness, this section empowers women with expert advice, medical insights and simple lifestyle changes. When women thrive, so does the world.
C.O.R.A.MED HRT & Regeneration Center, led by Laura Clark, offers services including orthopedic and spine injections, regenerative medicine, spinal decompression, physical therapy, hormone replacement therapy, vitamin optimization, medical weight loss, IV infusions and aesthetics like neurotoxins, llers, microneedling and a full med spa. With more than 23 years of experience, Clark’s expertise in orthopedics and spine treatments sets her practice apart. She views her work as a ministry—caring for people and helping them live life to the fullest. She provides patients with an alternative to traditional medicine, taking a holistic, natural approach. Clark’s goal is to restore quality of life without surgery, opioids or numerous prescription medications.
C.O.R.A.MED stands out for its family-owned, integrated approach, combining physical therapy and medical treatments in a collaborative setting. Unlike larger clinics where patients often face long waits, C.O.R.A.MED prioritizes timely appointments and personalized care, building genuine relationships with each patient. The center caters to a diverse clientele from all walks of life, united by a common focus on health and wellness. At C.O.R.A.MED, every patient is treated like family, ensuring a unique and transformative health care experience tailored to individual needs.
SPRINGFIELD-GREENE COUNTY
417-874-1220
FAMILYCONNECTS417.COM
660 S. SCENIC AVE., SPRINGFIELD
Family Connects Spring eld-Greene County offers vital support to families with newborns through free, in-home nurse visits. Serving all families in Greene County with a new baby, Family Connects provides clinical care, guidance and referrals to community resources during the crucial early postpartum period.
Bilingual staff are available to assist Spanish-speaking families, and all visits are tailored to each family’s unique needs. Home visits include health checks for parents and babies, along with information on childcare, health care coverage, infant soothing, safety and parent-child bonding. Every nurse on staff is a registered nurse, and many are also Certi ed Lactation Counselors (CLCs), allowing them to offer specialized breastfeeding support. Nurses also help connect families to additional community resources.
The program de nes “family” broadly, serving birth parents, adoptive or foster parents, grandparents and those who have experienced pregnancy loss. Nurses often become a trusted source of reassurance and support, helping parents feel con dent in their new role.
Many of the nurses bring decades of maternal-child health experience and are passionate about helping families thrive. Research shows that families who participate in Family Connects experience fewer ER visits, reduced postpartum anxiety and improved parenting outcomes, contributing to healthier, safer homes across the community.
Nettie J’s Medical Parlor is one of 417-land’s most elite medical spas, offering an exceptional blend of non-invasive medical services and holistic healing. Designed to nurture both body and soul, Nettie J’s is the ultimate destination for those seeking beauty enhancements and restorative care.
Their distinguished team consists of Cosmetic Nurse Injectors, Medical Aestheticians, Holistic Estheticians, Cosmetologists and Reiki Masters. Each expert brings specialized knowledge and a passion for helping clients achieve their self-love goals. Whether enhancing natural beauty with expertly administered Botox and dermal llers or rejuvenating skin through personalized facials, the professionals at Nettie J’s ensure every treatment is tailored to individual needs.
Beyond aesthetics, the spa embraces a holistic approach to overall wellness. Reiki energy healing sessions promote relaxation and balance, while skincare consultations address both inner and outer beauty. This commitment to comprehensive care has earned Nettie J’s a reputation for excellence, attracting those who seek results without compromising on self-care.
Nettie J’s Medical Parlor continues to set the standard in beauty and wellness, combining science and soul to help clients achieve radiant condence. Recognized as one of Spring eld’s elite glam squads, their team remains dedicated to providing a personalized and transformative selfcare experience for all.
Skin Bar Medical Studio is rede ning women’s health with innovative treatments like Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy. Specializing in the care of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women between the ages of 30 and 70, their team combines knowledge, compassion and expertise to help women navigate hormonal changes with con dence.
Many women experience symptoms of hormonal imbalance but Skin Bar wants them to know they don’t have to suffer in silence. At Skin Bar Medical Studio, patients nd a welcoming, judgment-free space where their concerns are heard and their health is prioritized. Their of ce has been described as having an “immaculate vibe,” with a team that feels like a cheerleading section, ready to support each woman on her journey to feeling her best.
Inspired by a passion for helping people live con dently, Skin Bar Medical Studio goes beyond hormone therapy. Whether it’s developing a personalized skincare routine or customizing a treatment plan, they take a tailored approach to wellness. They recognize that every person is different, which is why each patient receives a plan designed speci cally for their unique needs. Through expert guidance and a supportive environment, they empower women to embrace every stage of life with energy, balance and con dence.
417-812-5135 | THETA.LIFE 1339 E. MONTCLAIR ST., SPRINGFIELD
Theta Wellness Center is a leading destination for women seeking balance, performance enhancement and relaxation. As the rst in Spring eld to offer otation therapy, Theta also provides private Finnish sauna and cold plunge rooms with in-room showers, along with many other services. With a focus on scienti cally backed therapies, the center supports those looking to enhance their performance as they advance in their careers or those prioritizing overall well-being. Clients praise its cleanliness, attentiveness and relaxing atmosphere. The team at Theta Wellness Center understands that when women invest in self-care, it bene ts families and communities, making their services essential for both mental and physical health.
Get ready to say “yes” to an unforgettable bundle of 417-land experiences valued at more than $2,500! From thrilling concerts and cozy stays to cupcakes, roller coasters and family fun, you could win it all with the Yes Day Bundle.
To enter, scan the QR code or visit 417mag.com/win
TURN THE PAGE TO FIND PIPING HOT DINING NEWS AND SOME EXTRADELICIOUS OZARKS EATS.
ARE YOU READY TO DIG INTO THE YUMMIEST STUFF AROUND? LET’S EAT!
DIG IN!
We sampled the avorful fare at Crave Mediterranean Cafe, including our surprise favorite, the kunafa dessert (pictured here). Turn the page to read more.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS
AFTER 43 YEARS ON the planet (and after writing about food for almost 20 of them), sometimes I feel like I’ve tasted everything there is to taste. Sure, new restaurants pop up all the time, combining familiar or exotic flavors in new and creative ways, keeping things fresh and exciting. But it’s not very often that I try something that feels wholly unfamiliar to my palate. That happened recently, though, during the very final moments of my first meal at Crave Mediterranean Cafe in Springfield.
I visited the Springfield spot with my husband, Eli, and our kids, Oliver and Eloise. We enjoyed a delicious array of appetizers and entrees (I’ll get to those in a minute), but it was dessert that surprised me most. We ordered the kunafa. It’s popular in the Middle East, but my Midwestern family and I had never tried it. What came to the table was a very hot little pan with shredded filo pastry that’s filled with cheese, soaked in a honey syrup and topped with chopped pistachios. It was piping hot, creamy, crunchy, sweet and savory all at once—and the cheese pull was 10 out of 10. It wasn’t a bright, bold flavor that made me love this. It was the comforting warmth and the fun combination of textures. The flavor was quite mild, in fact. Yet it was addicting. I kept saying I was finished then reaching for “one more bite.” And for something
that’s mostly cheese, it felt surprisingly light for a dessert when we all shared it. In other words: a delightful meal ender.
As for the rest of our meal, it was a mood lifter too. We started with hummus, because how can you not? It was perfectly creamy and topped with a drizzle of olive oil, a bit of (not at all spicy) chili oil and a sprinkling of bright sumac. We ate this little by little, savoring it throughout our entire meal and dipping everything in it.
1111 E. Republic Road, Suite 164, Springfield, 417-306-9749, cravemediterraneancafe.com $$
We also shared an order of manakeesh, Mediterranean round, flatbread pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven with a topping of your choice. That was haloumi cheese for us. It was hot, stretchy, chewy and salty perfection.
For my entree, I opted for a combination plate with rice, grilled veggies, Greek salad, kofta kebab and sirloin
steak tikka kebab. The steak tikka kebab was my favorite. The tender steak was delightfully seasoned and cooked just the way I asked: medium rare. The crunchy and sweet charred bell peppers that shared the kebab stick with the steak were an excellent complement.
And while my meal featured beef (twice), Crave Mediterranean Cafe is also a great stop if you don’t eat meat. There are numerous vegetarian-friendly options, like the dolmades (grape leaves stuffed with a seasoned rice filling) or the falafel served with grilled vegetables.
People will put anything in a wa e iron these days, and we’re not mad about it! Take, for example, the cro e. It’s one of the signature treats at MOKape Brews & Bites (located at Battle eld Mall, 2825 S. Glenstone Ave, Suite V01A,
Spring eld). To create a cro e, MOKape presses a croissant in a wa e iron to create an extra-crispy texture before covering it in toppings. The Berries Cro e is a good option if you like a fruity treat. It comes with a whipped
cream topping, fresh strawberries, fresh blueberries and powdered sugar. Or if you’re like me and love when tea is used to make desserts, you can try the Matcha Cro e with matcha creme and matcha powder sprinkled on top. But no matter which you pick, be sure to order some co ee to go with it.
Tortilleria Perches is serving bright and tasty taco ights at their Spring eld restaurant.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
FLIGHTS AREN’T JUST for craft beers anymore. If it’s small (or can be made into a mini-size serving), then it can become a ight. Tortilleria Perches (Spring eld) is doing just that
with their tacos. When you order a ight, you get four di erent taco avors, each with its own special dipping sauce. The result is a colorful plate and the option to tickle your tastebuds with a di erent avor in just about every
bite. And hey, if you’re going to order a ight of tacos, why not order a ight of margaritas to go with it. The two together is a surere day-maker—and an excellent option for your next happy hour with friends.
FOODIE FUN
We rounded up some Ozarks spots that are perfect for a special Mother’s Day brunch to celebrate your favorite gal.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
When Mom Wants a Lake View
Osage Restaurant located at Top of the Rock, Ridgedale
Almost every seat at this restaurant o ers at least a peek of the Table Rock Lake view that Top of the Rock is known for.
When Mom Wants a Cozy Locale
Harvest Restaurant located at Sunshine Valley Farm, Rogersville
There’s just something so sweet about dining out on the wraparound porch at Harvest Restaurant, with fresh air dri ing and a scenic backdrop of the Sunshine Valley Farms apple orchard.
When Mom Wants Brunch + Spa
The Worman House Bistro located at Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale
If the theme of the day is Let’s Treat Mom, then what better way to follow up a stunning multicourse brunch than with a spa treatment? Book a massage that she can get a er the meal at Cedar Creek Spa.
End your meal with the Mount Olympus, a creamy baklava delight from Greek Belly.
We all have our favorite local avors—but it’s not just the entrees that deserve a high- ve. This roundup celebrates the extra little sparkles we have found and fallen in love with in the Ozarks.
Greek Belly
You go for the: crazy good pita sandwiches
But you’ll be surprised and delighted by the: Mount Olympus dessert (baklava, vanilla ice cream, honey-citrus-cinnamon sauce)
Dru s
You go for the: grilled cheese
But you’ll be surprised and delighted by the: homemade pickles
Cafe Cusco
You go for the: lomo saltado
But you’ll be surprised and delighted by the: bright, bold flavor of the leche de tigre shot
Caracas House
You go for the: arepas
But you’ll be surprised and delighted by the: homemade and super-spicy hot sauce
The European
You go for the: fresh pastries
But you’ll be surprised and delighted by the: best homemade raspberry jam you’ve had in your life (order it with sourdough toast)
Retro Metro
You go for the: beloved flash-fried spinach
But you’ll be surprised and delighted by the: excellent seasoned bread service
Taj Mahal
You go for the: huge variety of curries
But you’ll be surprised and delighted by the: best naan in town
Sakura
You go for the: bento boxes
But you’ll be surprised and delighted by the: comforting miso soup that just hits di erent
OUR DINING GUIDE FEATURES A SELECT LIST OF RESTAURANTS IN THE
Ozarks. The magazine’s editors recommend all these restaurants, and we don’t accept freebies in exchange for reviews or listings. Entries are updated often and appear based on space availability. Specially featured restaurants are chosen by editors in service to readers.
$ = less than $10, $$ = mostly $10–20, $$$ = $20 or more
B, L, D = Serves Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner d= Outdoor seating
14 MILL MARKET
203 E. Mount Vernon St., Nixa, 14millmarket.com
Food hall. There are 10 restaurant concepts, the full-service Wisner Bar and a fun outdoor entertainment area. Stop by for Korean barbecue bowls at The Gochu, sweets at Liege Love Wa e Co., tacos at No’cho Ordinary Taco, desserts at Keikeu, burgers at MO Slider Company, British pasties at London Calling, shaved ice at Sno Biz, poke bowls at Fresh Poke, barbecue at Uptown Hog, pizza at Classic Pizza Co., and more. $–$$ L D d
1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8831234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631
American fare. The restaurant at Andy B’s Entertainment Center offers lane-side food service and a menu full of burgers, pizzas, pasta and more. The hot pretzel is one of our faves. Bonus: There’s a full-service bar here, too. $ L D
AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS
2144 E. Republic, Suite E120, Springfield, 417881-9736; aviarycafe.com Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes—which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there’s so much more besides crepes. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French flair.
$–$$ B L D d
BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL
Locations in Springfield, Republic and Nixa; bairsburgers.com Burgers. There are 22 appetizers and 50 burgers on the menu at Bair’s, plus plenty of non-burger sandwiches, great chicken wings and salads. We love the burger that is topped with ranch dressing and fried pickles. So indulgent and delicious! You can get other sammies too, like fried pork tenderloin, Philly cheesesteaks or triple-decker clubs stacked tall. The corn nuggets are excellent. $ L D d
Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com American. Springfield’s go-to for bu alo chicken dip, burgers and the staple pub foods has locations spreading throughout the Midwest. Fans rave about the spin dip too—a cheesy concoction with spinach and a little bit of heat. Don’t miss the ever-popular burgers, including the pretzel burger with horseradish aioli, bacon and cheddar. $$ BL D d
3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040 Cajun. The jambalaya is fantastic, and we like to order it extra-spicy. The oyster po’boys are customer favorites, and the boudin (Cajun sausage balls) are not to be missed. Try mix-and-match dishes to create a meal full of your favorite Cajun flavors (you can order a side of red beans and rice with a po’boy, for example). Or you could just keep it simple and dig into the peeland-eat shrimp. $ L D dK
1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-4273040, bigshotsgolf.com American. Come for the golf but stay for the good eats. There are great burgers (like the double smash burger with Hatch green chilis), pizza, wings and lots of shareable apps like the crispy red chili cauliflower. Don’t miss the fun cocktails. We loved the Bee Sting, made with tequila, agave, grapefruit, lime juice and jalapeño. So good! Be sure to stop by for brunch on the weekends. $$ BL D d
234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688088, cafecusco.com
Four Springfield locations; blaaacksheep.com Burgers. This swanky but comfortable burger joint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield Village and on East Sunshine Street. Chow down on the Good Yogi; two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and baaad sauce—house-made Thousand Island dressing. The shakes are great here too, with both kid-friendly options and grown-up versions with alcohol. $ L D
206 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-701-1130
Farm-to-table. They do some creative things with pastry, from tender galettes filled with lemon curd to savory sausage rolls served with pickles and whole-grain mustard, and the almond croissant is oh-so-dreamy. Be sure to grab a cup of joe while you’re there; the co ee and espresso menu is excellent. $ BL
If you have a foodie story idea, news about a local restaurant, or a correction to one of our Dining Guide listings, email our editorial team at yum@417mag.com.
Peruvian. This menu is packed with fun and unexpected dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the Andes Mountains. A few standouts: the black bean quinoa burger with avocado spread, the Lomo Saltado, and a host of delicious entrees. Anything that includes the ceviche is a sure-bet. You can get it as an appetizer, or as a taco filling. You can even order the Leche de Tigre—a shot of ceviche juice with hot sauce and a chilled shrimp chaser. $$ L D d
at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org American. Located on the grounds of Dogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon Grill Restaurant has a menu inspired by its surroundings. Try the bison burger made with bacon and caramelized onion topped with fire-roasted poblano peppers and pepper-jack cheese. Other great options include the trout cakes appetizer, the roasted asparagus salad and the short rib and grits entree. $–$$ L D d
15058 Business Highway 13, Branson West, cellar417.com
Bistro fare. With a great wine list and a huge deck overlooking the gorgeous Ozarks hills, this is a great spot to sip and eat with friends. A lot of the dishes have an Italian flare. Start with the hummus and whipped feta shareable to munch on with your friends, or order one of the entrees like confit chicken. $$–$$$ L D d
2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-3681739, cellarandplate.wine
Wine bar. At Cellar+Plate you can get exceptional wine and tasty food in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Customers love the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. Don’t miss the Cellar Board with meats, cheeses and fruits. And as you can probably guess from the name, Cellar+Plate has a great wine menu. $$ D d
415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-243-1777, chateauonthelake.com
Contemporary American. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Chateau Grille o ers gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake. And you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. The restaurant focuses on upscale, seasonal cuisine, flying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award-winning menu. Open daily during the regular season; open during weekends only during the o -season. $$$ BL D d
601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800
Contemporary American. What do you get when you combine a co ee shop, bar, cafe and liquor store?
Cherry Picker Package + Fare. A small selection of sandwiches, soups and salads is served daily. We’re big fans of the To Brie or Not to Brie—an Artisan Oven baguette topped with salted butter spread, thinly sliced ham, apricot preserves and a slice of brie. A er your meal, order an adult beverage at the bar or pick up a bottle of wine to enjoy at home. In the mornings, the co ee drinks are always well done. $ BL D d
107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-501-8456, civilkitchenandtap.com
American. With 28 beers on tap and chicken and wa es on the menu, it is easy to see the appeal of this rustic-but-comfortable restaurant and bar. Specializing in upscale comfort food, Civil Kitchen and Tap draws inspo from Southern and Midwestern staples. Some favorite dishes include salmon with fruit pico de gallo, crispy charred Brussels sprouts, huge salads and indulgent and gigantic battered onion rings. $ BL D d
609 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-6090, club609.com
American. The menu is large at this Joplin mainstay, and it o ers everything from sandwiches to delicious steaks. Don’t miss the pecan-encrusted chicken or grilled ahi tuna entrees—and be sure to order them with a side of flash-fried spinach. There is a variety of entree salads (you have to try the Cobb), and soups are made fresh every day. $$ L D
DERBY DELI
2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066
Bistro fare. Located inside Brown Derby International Wine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus board and more. We love the Martin’s salad, topped with oven-roasted chicken, or the Local Goat salad topped with a scoop of chicken salad. Don’t miss the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham, President’s butter and Gruyere on a baguette. It’s the best ham sandwich you’ve ever had. Don’t miss the tasty espresso drinks and sweet treats available at the co ee counter. $ L D
at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-335-2777, bigcedar.com
American. Here you can enjoy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. For an appetizer, the smoked trout is fantastic, and so is the cornbread topped with cracked pepper maple butter and smoked bacon. The entrees change with the season and are always a blend of rustic and upscale. $$–$$$ BL D d
1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu
American. The smoked tomato soup is knock-yoursocks-o delicious. College of the Ozarks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farm-to-table quality. There’s a fried green tomato caprese appetizer that uses pickled tomatoes and a house-made mozzarella cheese. For something hearty, try the pork belly shrimp and grits—it packs a bit of spice! Try the hickory smoked prime rib Thursday through Saturday. $$ BL D d
24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse.com
American. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour House is the brainchild of the folks who own Gettin’ Basted. But there’s a lot more than just barbecue here. Must-try dishes include the giant Bavarian pretzel appetizer, the queso-smothered tamales and the blackened mahi mahi entree. Don’t miss the wagyu burgers. $–$$ L D
2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8646994, farmersgastropub.com
Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and changes regularly. The entrees are well priced and satisfying, like the Scotch eggs and the chicken chop salad (arugula, kale, cabbage, blue cheese, boiled egg, pumpkin seeds, buttermilk dressing). There’s also a great selection of beer, and the burgers and fish and chips are always delicious. $$ BL D d
2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8665253, oasisfireandice.com
Global cuisine. This spot (located inside Oasis Hotel & Convention Center) specializes in dry-aged steaks and certified Angus beef and has a delicious menu that changes with the seasons. Be sure to try the Fire & Ice Whiskey Burger with a Maker’s Mark whiskey glaze and crispy fried onions. Other tasty options include seared Japanese tuna loin, adobo-rubbed steak, curry lamb chops, and more. $$ L D d
GARRISON at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com
Shareable fine dining. Located beneath the Ozark Mill at Finley Farms, The Garrison features a dark and moody speakeasy vibe, a fine dining menu and a beautiful riverside patio. Try the mini pot roast, the forest panzanella salad or the delightful rosemary pound cake. Be sure to order one of the delicious cocktails. $$$ D d
301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-886-9600 gogrotto.com
West Coast–style
American. The menu is accessible to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. The super-indulgent warm blue cheese chips are a favorite appetizer. Customers like the burgers (especially the burger topped with lots of tangy blue cheese). One of our favorite things to order is the grilled salmon sandwich with a side of the sweet-and-yummy sweet potato fries. The steak-gorgonzola salad is delish, too. Also try the black bean burger with sweet potato fries. $ L D d
520 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-625-1333, hacketthotwings.com
American. Sometimes the only thing that will satisfy your cravings is a big plate of some seriously good chicken wings. The wings at Hackett Hot Wings are fantastic and we’ve heard rave reviews from readers and sta ers alike. There are 13 hot wing flavors (ranging from tame barbecue sauce to super-fiery hot sauces that pack a huge punch). But we’re partial to the delicious hot and honey sauce and the tasty house dry rub. Try the sweet potato pu s. $ L D
8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville, 417-8303656, harvestmo.com Farm-to-table. Dining at Harvest Restaurant is an experience like none other in 417-land. Owners, Craig and Tamara Von Foerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper-seasonal, local cuisine. The menu is always in flux depending on what is in-season.
Our tip: Order whatever seafood option is currently on the menu. It’s always delicious and expertly prepared. $$$ D d
HOULIHAN’S
2431 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8627777; houlihans.com
American. The fish tacos and burgers are fantastic, and we love the nachos appetizer along with the salad selection. The one with banana chips and tuna is a fave. $–$$ L D d
HY-VEE
1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8818224; 2150 E. Sunshine St., Springfield
American and more. It’s a great place to find something for every member of your family: hibachi grill,
JW’S KITCHEN
2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997
British and American Southern. This spot features excellently prepared brunch options, like biscuits with chocolate gravy or a full English breakfast and everything in between. For dinner, find comforting fare like fried chicken or roasted Scottish salmon. $$ BLD
LA HABANA VIEJA
220 E. Commercial Street, Springfield, 417-771-5723, la-habana-vieja.com Cuban. Find great mojitos
vieja, Cuba’s national dish of beef brisket, rice and veggies. You can also get an appetizer of yucca fries. $$–$$$ L D
MAMA G’S KITCHEN
2463 W. Sunshine St., Ste. 124; 210 S. Market, Ste. 124; Springfield; mamagkitchen.com
Southern. Mama G’s Kitchen started out with a spot at Metro Eats (the Sunshine Street location). Now, they’ve added a second outpost (the Market St. location). Come here for comforting dishes like fried pork chops, catfish, meatloaf and more. Sides are
METROPOLITAN GRILL
2931 E. Battlefield, Springfield, 417-889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com Eclectic fine dining. Known for its delectable flash-fried spinach, this restaurant specializes in steaks and seafood. The salads are always fresh and delicious. And we love that the menu is always changing, giving us something new to be excited about—served in a familiar space. $$$ D d
MUNDOS LATIN KITCHEN & BAR
pop up. Keikeu is the new kid on the block at the food hall, and our mouths are watering just looking at their socials. Owner Leo Kim, who also brings us The Gochu, is behind this new co ee, tea and dessert business. It focuses largely on desserts—many of them trendy items like maritozzi cream-stu ed brioche buns, pretty little cream cakes in many avors (like pineapple-coconut, matcha and Nutella), crispy at croissants dipped in chocolate, Basque burnt cheesecake and crispy honey-butter toast that’s super-popular in Japan. And they are all beautiful. On the drinks side of things, there will be an espresso bar, several types of tea and brown sugar milk tea with boba.—Tessa Cooper
pumpernickel rye bread. They have two soups of the day, one of which is vegetarian. For a lighter option, order one of the fruit and yogurt parfaits with house-made granola and fresh blueberries, raspberries and strawberries. Don’t forget to grab a loaf of bread while you’re there; the Neighbor’s Best loaf makes truly top-notch avocado toast. $ BL D
5493 N. 17th St., Ozark, 417-485-2160, mundoslatinkitchen.com
Latin. The menu here features dishes from many Latin cuisines, including Mofongo (mashed plantains with chicarron), lomo saltado, tostones, street tacos and tons more. We love the jicama taco with coconut shrimp. $$ L D
NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE
2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8833403, nearlyfamous.net
Deli and Italian. Regulars love the weekly specials: egg salad on Fridays, pear sandwiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastic, and it goes well with just about any sandwich at this friendly spot. It’s hopping at lunchtime, and the dinner hours o er a menu filled with tasty pasta dishes. $$ BL D
NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY
1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417-720-4162; neighborsmill.com
Deli and bakery. This full time bakery o ers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches, soups and salads. Don’t miss the honey pecan chicken salad, which comes on Bronze honey wheat bread, or the Reuben, which comes on
at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8321515, theordersgf.com New American. Step inside the Vandivort Hotel and turn le for a downtown-Springfield dining experience not to be missed. The atmosphere is trendy but relaxed while the food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from-scratch kitchen. Try Executive Chef Calvin Davis’s spin on cashew chicken or the market fish specials that change daily. Brunch is excellent here too. $$–$$$ D
OSAGE RESTAURANT at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-2256343, topo herock.com American fine dining. Take in beautiful views from the dining room at Osage Restaurant, located at Top of the Rock, and enjoy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The fried chicken is stellar, and the cocktails menu always o ers created and delicious options. $$$ B D
THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com Farm-to-table. Inside the beautifully restored Ozark Mill, you can order upscale farm-to-table meals that are made with ingredients grown right at
Finley Farms or produced in their on-site apiary. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters appetizer made with artichoke, sausage, mozzarella and served over a pickled pepper aioli. We also love the Chicken & Dumplins made with cornbread gnocchi and the delicious gem lettuce salad. $$–$$$ L D d
2515 S. Campbell Ave., Ste. 400, Springfield, 417-605-7500, palmandpaddlegrille.com
Caribbean. Everything has an island flair here. The coconut shrimp is a must-try, and so is the mango-habanero chicken. Their tasty jerk chicken is a filling option fro the tiki tacos, along with jerk shrimp and carne asada. Bonus: If you’re perusing the entrees and can’t decide what you want, you can go for an Island Combination and order two. $$–$$$ L D d
344 Nautical Circle, Kimberling City, 417-5271580, pier28pizzagrill.com
American. Come for lakeside views and a menu filled with pizza, burgers, tacos and more. If you love fried pickles, get an order of the spicy pickle chips to share. And if you’re looking for something on the lighter side, the menu o ers several tasty salad options. Check website for seasonal hours. $$ L D
1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-3798614, facebook.com/ QueenCitySoulKitchen Soul food. The menu changes from week to week here, but the o erings are always delicious. Find comforting fare like meatloaf, fried chicken wings, smothered pork chops and more. Leave room for peach cobbler or bread pudding. $–$$ L D
2902 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-5974569, rebar-taproom.com. American. This spot features elevated takes on taproom fare. A few menu highlights include charbroiled oysters, duck bacon wontons, pizza, wings and more. There are several burgers, like the Hoglager BBQ Burger topped with bacon, onion strings, cheese and Yuenglinginfused barbecue sauce. $$ B L D
2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7201708, eatretrometro.com
Contemporary American This throw-back concept brings back decades of old Metropolitan Grill favorites and quite a few brand-new flavors too from owner Chef Tiny. The aptly named Retro Metro serves some of Metropolitan’s greatest hits, including flash-fried spinach and chicken spiedini. But there are original items on the menu as well, from Chef Tiny. $$$ D
1410 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715357, showmechuy.com Italian-Mexican fusion. This fusion spot o ers Italian options like pasta carbonara, Mexican options like bright-and-fresh shrimp aguachile and combos of the both cuisines. For example, the penne poblano features rigatoni pasts in a poblano sauce with Mexican cheese. Brunch is served on Sundays. $ B L D
3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7557155, splitspringfield.com
American. Come for creative and beautifully prepared shareables and hearty entrees, all served a teeny restaurant space that packs a lot of good
vibes. We love the amazing macaroni and cheese (get fried chicken with it as your optional protein). The menu changes with the seasons, but recently we’ve loved the Ooo Mami Tacos filled with seared sashimi-grade tuna. $$ L D
301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315
American. The burgers are top-notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken breast are a favorite (try the one with spicy Cajun chicken—yum!). Come hungry enough to order dessert because the cakes are stellar. Our favorite is the dreamy banana cake (nothing can beat it!) but the blueberry-lemon is a very close second. If you need to feed a crowd, their Italian catering options are huge, a ordable and never disappoint. $–$$ L D
621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417883-2462, teabarandbites.com. Bistro fare. Everything we’ve tasted at Tea Bar & Bites has been fantastic. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, flaky crust. We love any of the menu items that have a Mediterranean flair. The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. There are tasty baked goods too, like giant caramel rolls or the sweet coconut cream cupcakes. $ B L D d
334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie.com Indo-Dutch. Dutch pancakes, chicken witlof and other Indo-Dutch and Dutch-inspired cuisine populate the menu at this Commercial Street hotspot from Joe Gidman of Cafe Cusco. We love the
pancakes—especially the Farm Near Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. For something packed with veggies, the Liza’s Stamppot entree is perfect. For something sweet, try andy of the dessert pancakes that come with berries. $$ BL D
1198 State Highway NN, Ozark, 816-838-1664, volleyballbeachozark.com
American. You probably already know you can play sand volleyball year-round at Volleyball Beach Ozark. But did you know you can grab dinner and drinks too? They o er chicken wings with several sauce options (including some fun ones like apple-habanero barbecue or Korean barbecue), a few types of pizza, burgers and more.
$–$$ D
OCEAN ZEN PACIFIC RIM RESTAURANT
4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8899596, eatoceanzen.com Asian fusion fine dining. Try Chilean sea bass or the macadamia nut chicken. We particularly love ordering the Hawaii Five-O sushi roll; with seared rare tuna and a pineapple salsa, it’s a tasty combination of savory, sweet, spicy and refreshing. Don’t miss the top-notch steaks. $$–$$$ L D d
1845 East Sunshine Street, Springfield, 417-430-0400, wheelhousefood.com. Thai-Mexican fusion. The pineapple fried rice is a fan favorite at this ThaiMexican fusion spot, but you really can’t go wrong
with anything on the menu. We always go for the kimchi-falafel tacos. $ BL D
BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ
2002 South Campbell Avenue, Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com
Diners love the ribs and the burnt ends at this classic barbecue eatery. We can’t get enough of the killer smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. Don’t miss the jalapeño bottle caps. $ L D d
CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE
3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7201113, citybutchersgf.com
Come early because this Texas-style barbecue spot, where the meat is smoked in small batches for opti-
mal freshness, is known to sell out. Killer brisket, pulled pork and other favorites are sold first-come, first-served with a few simple but delicious side dish options. If you’re in a sandwich mood, try the City Smokestack, piled high with brisket, pulled pork, pork belly and sausage. $–$$ L D d
CROSSTOWN BBQ
1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646
Try the ribs or the brisket. The Big Pappa Dinner is a signature dish, and it features tons of meat including ribs, brisket and hot links. We loved the smoked chicken salad for something that feels healthy and indulgent at the same time. And as for sides, you have to go with the crispy fried okra. Another customer favorite (even though it’s not barbecue) is the always-tasty and oh-so-crispy fried catfish. $–$$ L D
2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com
find unexpected dishes with a barbecue spin: nachos, salads, a burrito. The sandwiches are all packed with ingredients, liked the Hogwallop that has pull pork, hot link, pickled jalapeños, pepper-jack cheese, sautéed onions and sauce. $–$$ L D
943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744
Be sure not to miss the pork spare ribs with Pappy’s barbecue sauce or the barbecue nachos at this long-running Springfield institution. (Extra perk: We’ve heard people say that Pappy’s sells the very coldest beer in town.) The restaurant’s daily specials are delicious, too. $ L D
BILLY GAIL’S CAFE
5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com
Whether it was from Elle’s Patisserie, Culture Counter or Box Turtle Creamery (RIP, all three), we’ve always enjoyed a good walk in Rountree accompanied with made-from-scratch ice cream. Now, Buttermilk is the newest business to once again o er this sweet little luxury in the neighborhood at 1458 E. Cherry St. We attended the grand opening last month and arrived with high expectations that owner Kyle Davis far exceeded. Davis was formerly the pastry chef at Progress and The Order, and we’ve been attending his Buttermilk pop-ups throughout the past year. There were so many good options to choose from, but we landed on the blood orange sorbet, which had us dreaming of summer on the 80-degree day.—Tessa Cooper
Come here for award-winning barbecue in all your favorite varieties: brisket, ribs, pulled pork and more. The seven wagyu burgers on the menu are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong with homemade pimento cheese, barbecue nachos and more. We can’t get enough of the pork tacos appetizer, featuring pulled pork tacos on grilled tortillas with slaw and pineapple. The house salad topped with chicharrones is a hit too. $–$$ L D
573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq.com
This spot specializes in Kansas City–style barbecue. Among stellar ribs, brisket and more perfectly prepared meats, you can
Billy Gail’s in Branson has been a beloved breakfast hotspot for ages, and it’s still going strong. The Ozark spot and has become just as popular. Come for massive pancakes and other breakfast fare. The Ozark location serves dinner on the weekends. $ BL D
THE BRUNCHEONETTE
424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net
We love the creative takes on eggs Benedict that we’ve found at The Bruncheonette, whose menu changes weekly but is always interesting. Don’t miss your chance to order a plate of poutine, handcut fries topped with gravy, shredded cheese and a poached egg. The carrot fries are wonderful too. This restaurant is small but mighty. $ BL
BY ALLY JEPPSEN
1717 E. Cherokee St., Springfield, 417-885-8088
This spot serves up creative breakfast fare and has a full-service bar churning out breakfast margaritas and the ilk. Bonus: Those breakfast margs are made with orange marmalade for a nod to the day’s first meal. Don’t miss the tacos, burritos, traditional breakfast fare, sandwiches and more. There’s even a chicken and wa es sandwich, and we love that you can get sweet potato tots as a side here. $ BL d
2946 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8890601; 3103 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-6337094; firstwatch.com
Go traditional with a plate piled with crispy bacon, eggs and toast. Or order something more creative. At First Watch you can find breakfast power bowls (like the one filled with quinoa, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, kale and eggs), lemon-ricotta pancakes, avocado toast, a superfood bowl with chia pudding and fruit and lots more. There are a few di erent eggs Benedicts. $ BL
220 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-5500
The sweet potato hash browns are super-delish here, and we highly recommend ordering them in place of the traditional hash browns. We also love The Bear Hug: biscuits and gravy, choice of meat, two eggs and either hash browns or sweet browns. Gailey’s is known for breakfast, but the restaurant also has a tasty lunch menu. Breakfast and lunch are served all day, and the weekly dish and cocktail specials are always a fun change of pace. $ BL
105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-986-4646, theeuropean417.com
The pastries are picture-perfect and taste just as good as they look. The cardamom buns are luxurious comfort food. And the breakfast and lunch dishes are inventive and superbly executed. We love the mousse cakes and strawberry pancakes—or the shakshuka when for something savory. $ BL d
1423 E. Cherry St., Springfield, Ste. 101, 913-730-6224, sleepyopossumcafe.com
This darling spot serves creative, classic and always delicious breakfast fare. We are obsessed with their hashbrown quiches, and the homemade biscuits topped with everything seasoning are to die for. Any baked sweet is a dream here too, especially the creative cakes. $ BLD
BAO BAO CHINESE BISTRO
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite A104, Springfield, 417-877-7505
Chinese food fans, this is a must-try spot for you. This little spot in Chesterfield
Village has a chef who used to own a restaurant in Shanghai, so there are several authentic items on the menu. Try the salt-andpepper pork. $ L D
CHINESE CHEF
3029 South Campbell Avenue, Springfield, 417-883-4770; 1731
S. Enterprise Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2433
Classic Springfield-style Chinese food is on the vast and very a ordable menu at Chinese Chef. Owner Joe Fong has been serving Springfield for over
The wait is nally over! Show Me Chuy is o cially open (and reservations strongly encouraged). Nothing warms our foodnews-loving hearts quite like getting an invite to a friends and family soft opening, so we were thrilled to get a sneak peek of the Italian-Mexican fusion o erings prior to the grand opening. The cuisine re ects the skills Chef Chuy García honed as the chef at Avanzare with the avors from his home state of Jalisco, Mexico. Judging by the food they served that evening, it looks like the menu is going to lean a bit more towards Italian with a light coastal Mexican air. For example, Chuy’s Pork Chop is a pan-seared pork with a side of garlic oil and herb pasta, but it gets a dose of a fresh, tropical avor with mango pico de gallo. The rest of the dishes we sampled were primarily pasta, like penne with shrimp and cheese and cream ravioli (our favorite). On the drink side of things, we got to try the Mezcalita with tamarind, which is another o ering that leans into García’s hometown avors. —Tessa Cooper
40 years, and some of his customers’ favorite dishes include Kung Pao chicken, made-from-scratch cashew chicken, crab rangoon and egg rolls. The Campbell location o ers a Sunday bu et, and both locations o er a drive-thru daily. $ L D
1730 E. Republic Road, Ste. A, Springfield, 417-771-5666, corner21sgf.com
This restaurant’s menu o ers a large variety of authentic Chinese dishes, including several Szechuan-style meals. You’ll even find dishes that aren’t common on local Chinese restaurant menus, such as braised pork belly with rice noodles, ribeye and enoki mushrooms in a curry broth, fried pumpkin, spicy Szechuan fish and so much more. $ L D d
LEONG’S ASIAN DINER
1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-887-7500
The Leong family serves its original cashew chicken at this tasty eatery, among
food, to boot. The breakfast burritos are stellar and so filling. We love the seasonal drinks that change every so o en, especially when they o er some version of a refreshing espresso tonic. So good! Don’t skip the sandwiches or salads for lunch (served all night). Battlefield Road location is drive-thru only. $ BLD
217 East Commercial Street, Springfield, 417-865-9911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-868-4157; bigmommasco ee.com
lots of other yummy stu . The crab Rangoon are especially delicious here, and we like to dip them in the bold and spicy mustard sauce. The made-fromscratch egg rolls are a classic. $–$$ L D
1710 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-832-8889
While you can find Springfield Chinese favorites like cashew chicken on the menu at Triple Eights, you can also dig into more traditional Chinese fare. The mapo tofu is a must try, with its rich and spicy sauce. The Sichuan Maocai stew is worth a taste too. $ L D
ARCHITECT COFFEE
1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715030; 1300 E. Battlefield; architectco eeco.com
This Instagram-chic coffee shop on Springfield’s south side o ers a bright and cozy atmosphere with warm drinks and hearty
This spot o ers co ee, espresso and blended frappes. But there is more on the menu than just drinks. Be sure to try the super-delicious sandwiches that are served here, too. The Juliette is one of our favorite sandwiches from Big Momma’s (with apples, provolone and creamy spreads), and we also adore the sweets selection. $ BL D d
545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook. com/theblacklabllc
This casually canine-inspired co ee stop is Republic’s place to be for a piping hot Labbuccino, and their second location in Springfield serves all the same pup-inspired menu items. Try the Black Lab, which includes to ee nut and chocolate, or the Goldendoodle, a signature combination of caramel and brown sugar. $ BL
CAFE CUBANO
3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8877777, facebook.com/ countrygirlsespresso
Aside from all of the delicious co ee drinks, the real must-try item here is the authentic Cuban sandwich, served pressed on Cuban bread. Cafe
Cubano’s’ signature is its Cafe Con Leche with scalded milk. We also love the guava pastry, a treat that costs less than $2 and is filled with tropical sweetness. For breakfast, the bacon and cheddar burritos are a favorite thanks to thick-cut bacon. $ BL D
1900 West Sunset Street, Springfield, 417-881-7625, classicrockco ee.com
This co ee shop o ers espresso drinks with rock ‘n’ roll–inspired names. Try the Sweet Emotion latte (with chocolate and caramel) and a ham and cheese pu pastry breakfast pocket to start your day. Another perennial favorite drink: The Dirty White Boy. $ BL D d
THE COFFEE ETHIC
124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-8666645, theco eeethic.com
Try the single-origin coffee, brewed one cup at a time, or any of the creative and delicious seasonal drinks. The cappuccino is fantastic (truly one of the best we’ve ever had), and the shop also serves wine, cra beers on dra and a small selection of quality liquors. The food game here is strong too, with loaded oatmeal, freshly baked mu ns and more. $ d
1945 South Glenstone Avenue, Springfield, 417-883-5114, dancingmuleco ee.com
The mochas are great here—chocolatey but not too sweet. Dancing Mule also does a really good authentic cappuccino that’s made just right. Try the Peanut Butter Fandango Frappe if you’re in the mood for something a little more funky, and if you’re on the run, swing through the drive-thru. $ B
2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-3742739, echelonco ee.com
This sunny co ee shop (with a drive-thru!) has excellent espresso drinks, drip co ee, pour-over and more. We love The Formation (espresso with vanilla, cinnamon and honey) prepared as a frappe. Don’t miss the breakfast and lunch fare too, like smoothie bowls, burritos and salads. $ BL D d
EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE
445 E. Commercial St., 417-720-1949, culturecstreet.com
This co ee roaster with a mission also serves some tasty fare in its Culture Cafe. In addition to carefully cra ed cups of co ee, there are excellent lunch items. Recently we’ve enjoyed the chicken tikka naan’wich and the smoky chili. We love the miso caramel latte too. $ BL D d
KINGDOM COFFEE
211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-3501234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Avenue, Springfield; kingdomsgf.com
The co ee menu features classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos, mochas and more. We love the classic cortado the most, and the not-toosweet and super-creamy iced matcha latte is truly delicious. The seasonal drinks are always a treat here, too. If you can get your hands on it, be sure to order a cheddar and chive scone (and ask them to warm it up!). $ BL D d
323 South Ave., Springfield, 417-832-1720, mudhouseco ee.com
The co ee is always fantastic here, at Springfield’s OG downtown co ee shop. Plus, Mudhouse also o ers a wide variety of loose-leaf teas. The muf-
fins here are huge and delicious (make sure you try the one with berries—it’s our favorite). $ BLD
2710 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-771-5950 Asian fusion. This wholefoods cafe o ers organic dishes with ingredients from local market vendors. Juices are organic and cold-pressed. The real draw here is the MexicanKorean fusion menu, featuring gogi nachos, kimchi fried rice and street tacos. The gogi quesadilla with kimchi is our favorite; we like to order it with tofu and extra goji sauce on the side for dipping every single crispy bite of our quesadilla. $ BL D d
1645 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8776889, facebook.com/ rootsco eebar
Grab a cup of joe on the go or stay awhile and order a breakfast sandwich at this versatile co ee shop. Be sure not to miss the Smash Brown: a fried egg, cheese and hash brown sandwich topped with sausage, house-made brisket or pecan smoked shoulder bacon and served on a potato bun. Other popular menu items include breakfast burritos and the BLT. $ BL D d
COFFEE & PLANT LAB
5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, urbangrounds417.com
This spot specializes in drinks made with locally roasted co ee. Try classics like lattes and cappuccinos, or opt for a flavored options (like salted caramel to ee) or a botanical latte made with things like beetroot, turmeric and more. When you’re hungry, munch on one of the loaded toasts, a grazing tray, a smoothie bowl and more. This co ee shop
doubles as a plant store and boutique, selling gi s, home decor and more. In the plant lab, you can buy a plant and a pot and then put them together while you sip a co ee. $ BL
840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com
The Workshop is a co ee shop and gathering space. The menu includes classic co ee and tea o erings plus super-sized suped-up toasts (the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious). Don’t miss the delicious creamy chicken salad; it’s excellent. As for drinks, we love The Workshop Shake, a shaken iced latte with vanilla bean syrup, cinnamon and honey. Their take on a London Fog, featuring pH lavender syrup, is delicious too. You can also sign up for handson workshops. $ BL d
208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-422-0912
The sandwiches are excellent, with options like The Mighty Burg (smash patties, garlic-bacon mayo, white American cheese), The Hamela Anderson (ham, Swiss cheese, candied jalapeños), vegetarian options and more. Bonus: This spot has a walk-up window. $ LD d
1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8871148, queencitydeli.com
This spot serves up pasta, soups, salads and some super-delicious sandwiches. Don’t miss The Burnes (beef tenderloin on garlic bread) or the Italian beef sandwiches (order them wet to get plenty of luscious jus). You can’t go
wrong with the pastrami sandwich that’s incredibly meaty—piled high just like they do it in New York City delis. $ L D
113 E. Main St., Branson, mythicalwich.com
This sandwich shop comes from the owners of another Branson favorite: Gettin’ Basted. It o ers a large selection of bold lunch and breakfast sandwiches, like the Holy Hand Grenade topped with pastrami hash and a fried egg. There are also soups, salads and desserts—like the banana pudding that we’re dying to try. $ BLD
1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-8873804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318077
The Fighter Pilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, banana peppers, lettuce and sub sauce. Be sure to try the sandwich specials (also known as the secret sandwiches); they are always creative and delish. Hit an ATM on the way there, because The Sub Shop is cash only. $ L d
Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com Frozen treats. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings (our sta ers love the key lime pie and blackberry in the summer, and the apple pie and pumpkin pie in the fall). Try the Ozarks Turtle sundae, a classic concoction with caramel, hot fudge and toasty pecans. Try a root beer float or an Italian ice pops. Or you can order your own creation. We like to get a sundae with raspberries, pecans and marshmallow flu . $ d
BUTTERMILK
1458 E. Cherry St., Springfield, instagram. com/buttermilkrules
Ice cream. Pastry chef Kyle Davis has brought made-from-scratch ice to the Rountree neighborhood. You might have tried Davis’s work at Progress (RIP); now you can taste it at the walk-up window at this adorable ice creamery. Fun flavors include options like espresso ice cream with chocolate crumble, blood orange sorbet, buttermilk ice cream with shortbread and more. $ d
1231 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-3680279; 1580 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-5983474; wannahurts.com Donuts. Outside-the-box toppings cover these super-delicious doughnuts, available 24 hours a day. A customer favorite is the maple-bacon bar, a huge, salty-sweet concoction that is oh-so-delish. But it’s not just donuts. You can also get shakes, freshly baked cookies and more. $
LUCKY CAT BOBA TEA & TAIYAKI
3424 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-351-3136
Boba tea. There is a he y menu of bubble tea options (we like the passionfruit mojito bubble tea that comes with fresh lime and mint leaves) plus sweet snacks like mitarashi dongo skewers, red bean–filled mochi, and darling slices of cake. The taiyaki are fish-shaped wa e-like cakes with tasty fillings that come in flavors like red bean, Nutella, vanilla custard and more. $
110 E. Main St., Branson, 417-973-5002, mainstreetpopsbranson.com Ice pops. This sweet and creative little ice pop shop in downtown Barnson let’s you customize your sweet
treat. You pick the pop flavor you like most, then you choose which dips and toppings you want to add to fancy it up. Or if you’re indecisive, you can pick one of “signature” pops, like the Almond Joy that features a coconut ice pop topped with chocolate dip, almonds and toasted coconut. There are dairy-free options too. $ L D
1109 E. Battlefield Road, Ste. A, Springfield, parlordoughnuts.com
Donuts. This spot is known for their “layered donuts,” which have a unique textures, are super-indulgent and come in a dozens of toppings-laden flavors. Our very favorite is teh coconut cream filled donut. You can also get keto-friendly donuts, vegan and gluten-free donuts, great espresso drinks, and savory breakfast items (like tacos). They even have a Doggie Doughnut. $ B L D
621 South Pickwick Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com
Pie and cookies. Prairie Pie makes stellar all-buttercrust pies in flavors that range from classic to inventive. The caramel apple pie is an elevated take on a classic and is quite popular. Any of owner Eleanor Taylor’s pies made with rhubarb are superb. You can get savory pot pies and quiche too. Prairie Pie is located inside Taylor’s other business storefront, Tea Bar & Bites. $–$$
1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7204094, facebook.com/ societea.
Boba tea. Bubble tea is the name of the game at this authentic spot where the matcha milk tea and the matcha roll cake are both must-try o erings. Whether you’re a bubble
Hours: Tues–Sat Lunch: 11:00am–1:30pm Dinner: 5:00pm–9:00pm
Savor the soul of Cuba at La Habana Vieja! Relish authentic dishes and dance the night away at our electrifying Latin Dance Nights every last Saturday of the month!
220 E. Commerical St., Springfield 417-771-5723 | la-habana-vieja.com
Habanero’s Mexican Restaurant + Cantina has become a local favorite, expanding to multiple locations across the Ozarks. Experience vibrant flavors, festive ambiance, and authentic Mexican cuisine!
Cart age, Springfield, ep lic, Coming Soon to oplin a anero me icancantina.com
tea veteran or looking to try something new, this is your place. We love that you can customize the sweetness level of your drinks and top them with options we don’t see o en at other boba tea spots (like big pieces of co ee jelly, or creamy cheese foam). Our favorite is the fresh strawberry milk tea with crystal boba. $
ST. GEORGE’S DONUTS
3628 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8817515; 3012 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417882-1718; 1415 W. State Highway J, Ozark, 417425-7885; stgeorgesdonuts.net
Donuts. Lots of luscious doughnuts are made fresh daily here. We love the glazed blueberry and the oh-so-fresh chocolate cake donuts. $ d
XURROS CAFE
431 S. Je erson Ave., Suite 172, Springfield, 417-737-9144, Churros. The Spanishstyle churros here are just as pretty as they are delish, with fun toppings like cinnamon-sugar, dulce de leche glaze, chocolate and almonds, rainbow sprinkles and more. You can also order co ee and espresso drinks, plus a few savory food items like breakfast burritos, burgers served on churro buns (omg!) and avocado toast. $
BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND
1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291
Burgers. Billy Bob’s is an institution that has long served delicious sweets and tasty American food on the strip in Branson. There are 24 flavors of fried pies here, cheeseburgers (pro tip: top them with grilled onions), footlong hot dogs with chili and cheese and more. $ L D
CASPER’S
937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-2277377, caspersdiner.com
Chili. This local favorite is getting settled into a new location on Glenstone Avenue that’s filled with bright colors and a kitschy vibe that’s both Casper’sfamiliar and also brand new. The spot serves overflowing bowls of great chili and a few other yummy diner options (like burgers and hot dogs). Don’t forget to order some luscious chili cheese fries while you’re there. $ BL D
DRUFF’S
331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-7191719, yumdru s.com
Grilled cheese. Dru ’s brings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses, soups and creative sides. For a little heat, try the Good Doctor, made with cheddar, cream cheese, bacon and jalapeño, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a Nutella and strawberry grilled sando—it’s nuts. Dru ’s also o ers a robust brunch and breakfast menu. We love the breakfast bowls. $ L D
IGGY’S DINER
2400 Grand Ave., Carthage, 417-237-0212, facebook.com/IggysDiner Diner fare. This retro spot has so many nostalgic vibes and is a popular stop along Route 66. Come for hearty fare like stackedhigh burgers with fries, creatively topped French toast, diner breakfast faves (i.e. eggs, hashbrowns, all the good stu ), tall milkshakes and more. $ L D
RED’S GIANT
HAMBURG
2301 W. Sunshine St., Springfield
Burgers. A revival of the Route 66 staple (the original Red’s is rumored to be the country’s first drive-through restaurant),
this diner serves up as much nostalgia as it does classic burgers. Opt for the stacked high griddle burgers served with fries or onion rings, slurp on a malt or milkshake, or try out some of the newer gluten-free options. Check out the breakfast menu if you’re up early. $ BL D
2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill.com
Come to this yummy little spot on the Branson strip to indulge in some tasty Indian fare. We loved the karahi lamb (tender lamb, bell peppers and onion in a spicy sauce) and the mushroom aloo matar (mushrooms, potatoes and peas swimming in a creamy sauce). $$ L D
1908 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-771-5270
The huge menu here o ers Indian favorites and fun flavors you may not have tried. We love the pani puri appetizer, the samosa chaat and the lamb rogan josh. Be sure to pop in for lunch on the weekends, when they o er a stacked bu et. $$ L D
3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050
Find all your favorite classic Indian dishes here (the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are both excellent) along with some others you might not have seen around town before. For example, the gol gappay is a crispy fried ball filled with chickpeas, potato, onion and spices. We love the ras malai dessert: cheese in a cardamom-infused sauce. $$ L D
TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT
1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573
You can find all your Indian favorites here. There is a variety of naan bread (and it’s so, so so and perfect), many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts like rice pudding and gulab jamun (donuts soaked in syrup). We are obsessed with the lamb rogan josh and the chicken jalfrezi, and the bhindi masala (an okra dish) is a favorite too. Try their lunch combos. $$ L D d
ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE
311 S. Je erson Ave., Springfield, 417-3514400, zaykaspringfield. com
There’s a lot to love about this downtown Springfield Indian restaurant. The vegetable korma, chicken tikka masala and malai ko a are just a few of our favorite dishes. If you’re new to Indian food, try the pre-set combo meals that feature a lot of di erent flavors. For dessert, you can’t beat a bowl of warm gulab jamun sweet pastry balls. The lunch bu et is also killer when it’s open. $–$$ L D d
AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING
3240 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-567-3463,avanzareitaliandining.com
Pasta is always a hit at Avanzare, a longtime Springfield favorite. Veal dishes are top-notch at this Italian eatery, but you’ll have to pick the right night, as they’re only served once or twice a week. Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak and the pasta with seafood in a spicy tomato sauce. Indulge in the luscious chocolate torte for dessert. $$$ L D d
BAMBINO’S CAFÉ
1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8814442; bambinoscafe.com
This little Italian eatery serves hearty helpings of tasty Italian fare that won’t break the bank. The Poppa is a popular pasta dish: It comes with penne pasta, Italian sausage, mushrooms and a spicy tomato-cream sauce. Another fave: the portobello mushroom ravioli with a to-diefor sauce. The Delmar location is currently being remodeled. $ L D d
416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007
The bucatini with panchetta, chili oil and basil is a must-try pasta dish. Get it with the arugula salad with pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. Also on the menu is pizza, wagyu steak and lots of excellent entree options. The ever-changing specials always sound extra-tasty, like the recent o ering of shellfish arancini. $$$ D
GILARDI’S
820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-6400, gilardisonwalnut.com
Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little Italian restaurant that makes a wonderful date-night spot. Don’t miss the amazing meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce that are served over a bed of creamy goat cheese polenta. $$$ D d
3631 East Sunshine Street, Springfield, 417-886-3700, nicolasspringfield.com This restaurant serves a delicious sea bass. Try the lumache: fresh snails
Welp folks, TikTok has done it again, and now there’s a new viral dessert we need to try. It all started when the rest of the world discovered Dubai chocolate. These chocolate bars have a pistachio and knafeh (shredded pastry dough with a sweet, creamy cheese) lling. But now, a new creative use of these bars is what’s dominating social feeds. Dubai strawberry cups feature chopped strawberries drizzled with the deconstructed ingredients of a Dubai chocolate bar. Here’s where you can nd them around the Ozarks. —Tessa Cooper
• MacCheesy’s (Spring eld location)
• MOKapè Brews and Bites (Spring eld)
• Edible Art (Spring eld)
sauteed in garlic butter and baked with Parmesan cheese. Gluten-free pasta and pizza are available. The chicken parmigiano is a highlight definitely worth ordering. $$–$$$ D d
306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-8311222, nonnascafe.net.
Italian
The seafood lasagna is a must-try dish, and the spicy arrabbiata lasagna is crazy-good. And then there’s that drool-worthy deep-fried lasagna. Basically, if the dish has “lasagna” in its name, you know it’ll be good at Nonna’s. The Tuscan pappardelle ragu is excellent, and the pesto linguine is a delight. For dessert, we love the chocolate torte and the tiramisu. $$ L D
• Sweetly Dipped by Brooke (Republic)
• Planet Gumball (Marsh eld)
• Chamba Pan (Monett)
• Covéll (Lebanon)
107 West Aldersgate Drive, Nixa, 417-3747291, eatpiccolo.com
When you’re craving indulgent Italian fare, Piccolo delivers with a range of piled-high pastas, pizzas, steak and chicken entrees. Start things o with the Italian Nachos (fried wonton chips, homemade Alfredo sauce and toppings), or the Balboa balls, juicy meatballs stu ed with mozzarella and finished with goat cheese and marinara. You won’t want to miss the incredible cannolis. $–$$ L D d
1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com
The menu here is packed with handmade pastas. If
wagyu beef. For dessert, the matcha crème brûlée is our favorite. Be sure to order from the excellent sake menu. Order a sushi roll alongside some sake. $$–$$$ L D d
CRAFT SUSHI
251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417-319-5887, facebook. com/cra sushi
At Cra Sushi, you’re in control of your meal as you customize your own sushi and poke bowls. And the best part: It won’t break the bank. Try a salad bowl topped with marinated tofu, asparagus, mushrooms, jalapenos, edamame and spicy wasabi sauce. It’s our favorite! Anything with the raw salmon or the spicy pork is always a hit as well, and there are a ton of toppings and veggies. $$ L D
HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR
3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com
KAI
306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8320077, kaia erdark.com
This lounge-like restaurant in downtown Springfield has fantastic sushi. It has the same owners as Haruno, which is famous for their incredible rolls—so you know it’ll be delicious! Don’t miss the restaurant’s black cod or sea bass entrees with delicious wasabi risotto. They are just as impressive as the sushi rolls! There are some great cocktail and appetizer options here as well. $$–$$$ L D
KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL 640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225
you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them making the fresh pasta—you can see it from the dining room. The menu also boasts everything from a fried artichokes appetizer to a Tuscan T-bone steak entree. Plus there are burgers, pizzas and sandwiches too. $–$$ L D d
ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA
1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd
This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai o ers excellent nigiri and sashimi, as well as small plates and tapas. You have to try the delicious tuna cigars or the hot rock dish that uses
The Oh My God roll and the Sex and the City roll are trademarks here. If simple nigiri is your style, you’ll love the tuna sampler. Be sure to venture o the sushi menu and try some of the delectable entrees as well. Don’t miss the bibimbap or the fresh mango-jalapeño ahi tuna entree. If you love a spicy bite, make sure you try the seafood soup. Pair it with a little bit of nigiri or one of the spot’s tasty maki rolls. $$– $$$ L D
HINODE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE
4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777
Come to see the show at the hibachi grills. Hinode is known for wonderful hibachi meals with perfectly cooked proteins and all the extras: rice, stir fry noodles, veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. And don’t forget to try some sushi too. $$ L D
With Karai, owner Young Jun, of Haruno, Kai and Koriya, takes ramen seriously, and it shows in her food. The Karai Ramen with a flavorful and spicy house-made broth is incredible, and we like to get it with pork and a seasoned so -boiled egg added. For something lighter, the naked ramen with sesame noodles, spinach, wood ear mushrooms, bean sprouts, seaweed and sprinkled with lime is a highlight. Don’t miss the tasty hand rolls or the steamed buns filled with shredded pork, spring onions and teriyaki sauce. The Tonkatsu is a house special, a pork cutlet with Japanese mustard barbecue sauce, cabbage and miso soup. $ L D
MITSU NEKO FUSION CUISINE AND SUSHI BAR
1819 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson 417-336-1819, mitsunekosushi.com
Mitsu Neko has a wide menu variety, but it specializes in two things: sushi rolls and salmon. The seared salmon is a customer favorite. Try the takoyaki octopus pu s appetizer, or the braised
pork belly entree. If you like to sample a little bit of a lot of things, order a bento box that comes with your protein of choice, salad, sushi roll, rice and gyoza. $$ L D
2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8817171, nakato.com
Performance-style hibachi dining is what Nakato is known for. And they are super-good at it! A little entertainment plus a great meal. All of the sushi is top-notch here as well. Don’t miss the Jenny Roll, a favorite. For an appetizer, try the bacon-wrapped scallops. $$ L D
3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417-851-1707
In addition to a large variety of sushi rolls (we love the Cherry Blossom Roll and the Spicy Yummy Roll), this menu also boasts rainbow-bright cocktails and seven types of ramen soups. Come with friends so you can share and sample lots of rolls. For dessert, try the flu y Japanese cheesecake. $$ L D
2215 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield
The ramen and udon soups are some of the tastiest items on the menu here, and they come with lots of fun toppings. We like to order it with spicy broth and either chasu pork or chicken katsu for the protein. There are also sushi rolls, bento boxes, takoyaki and fun desserts like dango. $$ L D
3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000
There’s a solid sushi menu (the Sam’s Roll never disappoints if you like a roll with a lot going on), and you can order a sushi
donburi box to really get some bang for your buck if you prefer to keep your sushi meals simple and refreshing. The bento boxes are great too, packed with your choice of entree, California roll, rice, salad, miso soup, fruit, spring rolls, veggie tempura and ice cream. We recommend getting teriyaki salmon in your bento box; it’s always delish. $$ L D
SUSHI VILLAGE
1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8901016, facebook.com/ springfieldsushivillage
This cozy sushi spot has a warm date-night atmosphere with cherry blossoms and plants around every corner. All the sushi is fresh and flavorful, but some custom creations pack fun ingredient combos. $$ L D
BAWI KOREAN BBQ
4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8862777, bawikbbq.com
Bawi Korean BBQ brings an authentic Korean dining experience to Springfield, where you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 for an all-you-caneat meal. You cook the meat yourself on tabletop grills. Be sure to try their to-go lunch options too, including bowls filled with rice, noodles, veggies and the protein and sauce of your choice. $$ D
GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT
1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093
This spot serves up delicious and authentic Korean food. The beef bulgogi and dolsot bibimbap are best sellers here. If you’re in the mood for something really comforting on a cold day, opt for the kimchi chigae. You also get a variety of Korean sides with your meal. $ L D
KORIYA
4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077
This spot serves createyour-own bibimbap dishes, and you can choose between chicken, beef bulgogi, tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the japchae, made with slippery and sweet stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies—it’s fun to eat and so satisfying. Don’t miss the zaru soba if you’re in the mood for something lighter. You can also find ramen, stir fried noodles, beef bulgogi dishes and much more. $ L D d
3165 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-901-1803
Get the Korean ramen shop experience here, where you can choose from a variety of instant ramen and make it yourself using special self-serve machines. You can add several toppings, grab a tasty drink or dessert, order a side of dumplings or a steambed bun, and more. $ L D
French fries on a so pita. Our favorite, though, is the loukaniko wrap. It’s an orange-spiced pork sausage served in a pita with spicy feta dip, fresh veggies and French fries. For dessert, don’t miss the truly to-diefor ice cream topped with baklava and honey-cinnamon-citrus syrup. $ L D
338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677
The kibbeh is fantastic if you like herbaceous and satisfying eats, and any of the delicious and meaty kebabs is a great choice. We love the stu ed grape leaves appetizer, served with a delicious tahini dipping sauce. The falafel mushakal sandwich is great too, with falafel, baba ghanouj, French fries, fresh veggies, pickled turnips and tahini. There are plenty of options for diners with vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. For dessert, don’t miss the baklava. $–$$ L D
900 E. Battlefield, Suite 120, Springfield, 417-306-9087
CRAVE
MEDITERRANEAN CAFE
1111 E. Republic Road, Ste. 164, Springfield, 417-306-9749, cravemediterraneancafe.com
There’s so much good stu on the menu here; shareable dips like hummus and baba ganoush, shawarma, kabob, gyros, falafel and more. Don’t miss the flaming cheese appetizer or the manakeesh flat bread with toppings like sumac chicken. $$–$$$ L D
GREEK BELLY
320 E. Walnut St., 417597-3382, greekbelly.com
We love everything we’ve tasted here! Try a tasty pork or chicken gyro topped with creamy tzatziki, tomatoes, onions and
per delicious and satisfying meal and tastes amazing with tahini. $ L D
3637 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-2213490, cabosbonitos.com
Come to this east Springfield spot for all your Mexican favorites plus some fun and unique dishes like the fried avocado appetizer. It has beer-battered avocado halves filled with your choice of meat and topped with sour cream and chipotle ranch sauce. $$ L D
1001 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-3346052, cantinalaredo.com
You can find tender and delicious steak and chicken kebabs (or chicken or beef shawarma), served with flavorful rice, fresh baladi salad and so pita. Vegetarians can opt for a similar combo, but with falafel instead of meat. You can even get all those proteins served up as a wrap. As for sides, try lentil soup or hummus. $$ L D
VASKEN’S DELI
3200 Gretna Road, Suite D, Branson, 417-3349182, vaskensdeli.com
The gyros are fantastic here. Make sure you get them with traditional gyro meat, and don’t skip the tzatziki sauce! Everything’s better with tzatziki sauce, right? We are nuts for the beef shawarma too, though. It makes for a su-
Cantina Laredo is a great option if you’re exploring Branson and have a hankering for Mexican food. Located on Branson Landing, it has a great view of the choreographed fountain and of Lake Taneycomo and the blu s across the water. The menu varies, and we love the salsas. $$ L D
4610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7715031; 300 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417885-9097
The menu is huge at Casa Bella, which has two Springfield locations. Try the tasty ceviche, any of the street tacos, or the spicy camarones a la diabla. The Battlefield restaurant location is huge too, so there’s plenty of room to bring your whole crew for some Mexican eats. $$ L D
2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-881-8252 Indulge in authentic Mexican food at incredibly reasonable prices. We
love the birria taco, which is filled with succulent shredded beef. Don’t miss the Salvadorian pupusas stu ed with beans and cheese; they are delightful. The carnitas torta is also excellent. It’s huge and is stu ed with savory carnitas, topped with melted cheese, tomatoes, lettuce and mayo and then sandwiched between a pillowy bun. $ L D
610 W. College St., Springfield, 417-7715641; 305 E. Chestnut St., Stra ord, 417-736-0019; elparaisokitchen.com
This Stra ord-based Mexican restaurant now has an outpost in Downtown Springfield too. They are known for a great lineup of margaritas and all your favorite Mexican dishes. For an app, try the flaming cheese or the ceviche. For an entree, try the piña a la parrilla—a fresh pineapple bowl filled with grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, scallops, veggies and more. $$ L D
Locations in Springfield, Republic, Carthage and Joplin; habanerosmexicancantina.com
Orginally in Carthage, this popular Mexican restaurant has expanded to three other Ozarks cities. Don’t miss the tender quesabirria tacos with rich consomme for dipping. The nachos, enchiladas and guacamole are hits too. While you’re there, try one of the hand-cra ed margaritas. $$ L D
IGUANA ROJA
107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO-13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net
There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery located on the square in
Ozark. Don’t miss the one made with jalapeños; it has a kick that’s so much fun to drink. The chips are excellent here, with a yummy seasoning sprinkled on top of every one. $–$$ L D
LA PALOMA
3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7194484, dienlapaloma.com; 1425 W. Battlefield St., Springfield, 417-8892985, thelapaloma.com
This spot o ers a huge range of Mexican dishes including fish tacos, which are excellent. Battered and fried fish is topped with fresh pic de gallo, cabbage and a creamy chipotle sauce and then served with Mexican white rice.
$–$$ L D d
LUNA MODERN
MEXICAN
2925 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-3501006, dineluna.com
This spot serves delicious Mexican options like guacamole made tableside, fried plantains, quesabirria tacos, spicy Yucatan shrimp (our fave!) and lots more—including plenty of classic faves like enchiladas, quesadillas and more.
$$ L D d
MEXICAN VILLA
Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net
This spot is a favorite among longtime Springfield locals, and it is known for its sweet sauce served with tortilla chips. Also popular is the Sancho Enchilada Style—a huge burrito that is completely swimming in red enchilada sauce. Kids love the chicken fingers, and you can even purchase the sweet salsa in a jar to go.
$ L D d
OXO BAR & GRILL
2550 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3069808, oxospringfield.com
Try modern takes on Mexican street food, like
pork belly street tacos, chorizo burritos, chilaquiles, aquachile, elote and more. Come on Saturday for Latin Night for Latin dancing. Brunch available on Sundays with items like morning tostadas. $$ B L D d
3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8901212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com
Diners love the pollo abovado, an 8-ounce chicken breast that’s grilled and topped with homemade chorizo, white queso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos: three so corn tortillas filled with steak, cilantro and onions and served with rice, beans and avocado. $–$$ L D
1700 S. Campbell Ave., Suite A, Springfield, 417-863-6688
We love the street-style tacos. The pastor taco with onions and cilantro is great. And the fish tacos are some of our favorite fish tacos anywhere.
A dinner favorite is the carne asada burrito. For something a little di erent and a lot indulgent, try the super-cheesy chili relleno burrito. $ BL D
MEXICAN BAR & GRILL
3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-240-2120
This tiny restaurant packs big flavors, with a menu that features traditional Mexican soups, handmade-to-order flour tortillas, quesabirria tacos, massive quesadillas, fajita baked potatoes and more. The tacos especiales are a favorite, filled with carne asada, cilantro, onions, queso fresco and avocado. If you like pozole, come on the weekends when they serve both that and
Monday–Saturday: 4:30–11 p.m. Sunday: Closed
menudo. Don’t miss the huge margaritas menu, featuring fun options like their mangonada margarita and a great selection of tequilas. $–$$ L D
1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf.com
Let the little ruby-red building near Pickwick Avenue and Cherry Street be your guiding beacon to flavor-packed tacos, nachos and rice bowls. This tiny cafe serves major flavors in its taco menu. We’re fans of the Globetrotter pork belly taco. $ L D d
308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318007, tingatacossgf.com
This downtown taco shop is open late slinging shells of its wildly creative combinations. We are partial to the Fu Yu made with super-flavorful marinated tofu or the Fruity Piggles with juicy pork and fig jam for a saltysweet combination. $ L D
1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8648195
This tiny little authentic Mexican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a Mexican soda, a traditional Mexican soup or a tamale when you visit. Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays and Tamale Thursdays, where the dishes are only a dollar. $ BL D
sure to order the Athena (a pizza made with feta, pepperoni, olives, mushrooms and green peppers) if you want to try one that bursts with flavor. The bruschetta is a great appetizer. $–$$ L D
1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7201928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com
New York–style. You can get big New York–style brick oven pizza by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer, but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pizza. We love the creamy spinach pizza too, when we’re in the mood for a white pie. The gigantic pepperonis are a wonderful topping too. They are the same ones used in the pepperoni pinwheels. $–$$ L D
524 South Joplin Avenue, Joplin, 417-691-8523, carmineswoodfiredpizza. com
New York–style. You can find truly excellent New York–style, Neapolitanstyle and Detroit-style pizza at Carmine’s. We love Neapolitan the best, and the La Rughetta topping combo (mozzarella, prosciutto, grape tomatoes, shaved Parmesan and arugula) is our favorite. Don’t miss the calzones, pasta dishes, and gelato while you are there. $$ L D
CHERI’S HAPPY
thing like a mix between New York–style and Neapolitan-style. Try the Hotter Than Jacquez pizza with smoke mozzarella, bacon, pepperoni and fresh jalapeños. So, so good! There are occasional bingo night events here, and we’ve heard they are a blast and fill up quickly. $$ D
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-8839010, garbospizzeria. com
St. Louis–style. If you love a loaded St. Louis–style pizza, try the toppings-packed Grandiose. Or try the Bavarian pizza for something a little di erent; it is topped with Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. Customers are big fans of the Garbo’s house salad and its tasty homemade dressing. It’s honestly so hard to resist.
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IMO’S PIZZA
600 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-8621222; 636 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417886-4667; imospizza. com
few door down from his other restaurant, Nicola’s Ristorante. And just like at Nicola’s, everything on the menu is delish. We can’t wait to try options like the Nic Rise and Shine, Italian Stallion and vegetarian-friendly Monica Healthy pies. The menu also spans salads, panini, pasta, soups and more. $$ D d
MCSALTY’S
1550 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8834324
Hand-tossed. A mainstay in Springfield, McSalty’s serves delicious pizza and has been part of the Springfield landscape forever. The Bear Pie is a tasty supreme that’s loaded up with lots of toppings. $ L D
MR. G’S CHICAGO PIZZA
202 N. Commercial St., Branson, 417-335-8156, mrgschicagopizza.com
PAPPO’S PIZZERIA
221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8661111; 900 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417306-9091; pappospizzeria.com
Stonebaked. Try the spicy chicken Cholula pie topped with a mixture of red sauce and olive oil, grilled chicken marinated in Cholula sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, red onions, cilantro. Also, be sure you try the meatballs. We really like the salads here as well. $–$$ L D
THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB
2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-3680277
ARRIS’ PIZZA
1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8817260
Greek-influenced. Thincrust pizzas have a Greek flair at Arris’ Pizza. Be
located at Metropolitan Grill, 2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com
Wood-fired. It’s all about perfect pizza paired with champagne at this spot. Cooked in a wood-fired oven, this pizza is some-
St. Louis–style. A true St. Louis–style original, Imo’s serves pizza on cracker-thin crust with lots of provel cheese. We like the tasty Deluxe pizza. But our favorite is the simple combo of mushrooms and Italian sausage. Or pineapple and jalapenos (and don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!). The cheesy bread is ridiculously indulgent and covered in a thick layer of melted provel cheese.
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MASO PIZZA BAR
3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7201047
Wood-fired. Maso Pizza Bar is owned by Nicola Gilardi and located just a
Chicago-style. There’s a lot to like about this Branson pizza joint: a family-friendly atmosphere, hearty Italian food and excellent Chicagostyle pizza. They make all of the pizza dough from scratch. For a hearty taste, dig in to the supreme pizza, with homemade sausage, pepperoni and veggies. $$ L D
ONE 2 FIVE TAPROOM
1846 Highway 125, Rogersville, facebook. com/One2FiveTaproom
Wood-fired. This taproom and micro-distillery is the first outpost of Springfield Brewing Company, and its menu specializes in wood-fired pizza cooked in a brick oven. The Bourbon BBQ pizza is topped with fire-roasted chicken, smoked mozarella, bourbon barbecue sauce and pickled onions and jalapeños made inhouse. $$ L D d
Hand-tossed. With a menu full of pizza, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pub fare and a killer beer selection, there’s something to please everyone. We love to build our own pizza with Alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. Be sure to order the Brussels sprouts appetizer; they are flash fried and crispy, served with crispy potatoes, lardons, goat cheese and a balsamic reduction. $$ L D
PIZANO’S PIZZA
106 E. Jackson St., Willard, 417-742-5115, pizanoandsauce.com
New York–style. You can get a little bit of New York up in Willard at this pizzeria. This spot serves New York–style pizza in addition to calzones, sub sandwiches and pasta. $–$$ L D
PIZZA HOUSE
312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8814073
Thin-crust. This restaurant has been a tradition in Springfield for more than 50 years, and the pizza they serve is super-thin and cut into super-tiny pieces. It’s a
classic that’s not to be missed and is a favorite of lifelong locals. Our favorite thing there: any pizza that includes bacon. $ L D
& SUBS
Multiple 417-land locations; roccospizzaandsubs.com New York–style. This Italian eatery specializes in New York–style pizza that has anybody who’s been to the east coast swooning. It’s legit. Also on the menu are hot subs, like meatball or eggplant Parmesan, plus salads, calzones and a handful of pasta entrees. $–$$ L D
PIZZA + PUB
2210 W. Chesterfield St., Ste. 8683, Springfield, 417-885-0060, schultzpub.com
Neopolitan. The pizzas here are made using cold-fermented dough, a sauce of San Marzano tomatoes and a special pizza oven. Try the Blanco Formaggio white pizza made with garlic oil and five cheeses. Also on the menu: smash burgers, hot sandwiches, chicken wings and more. Try the fried goat cheese balls appetizer too. $$ L D
BOX PIZZA & WINGS
2932 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-8863333
Brick oven. There are a bunch of creative pizzas on the menu here, with sourdough crust that’s the perfect ratio of chewy to crunchy. We like the Arma Segreta, topped with caramelized and charred pepperoni, mushrooms, ricotta, basil and more. Wings are tasty here too; try the ones with lemon-pepper dry rub. There a few salads here too, for the super-fresh side we always crave with pizza. $$ L D d
ANDY B’S TIKI
433 Promenade Way, Branson, 417-213-8631, bransontikibar.com
Big news for lovers of island-style bevs and casual hangout spots: Andy B’s Tiki Bar has opened on Branson Landing, and it’s an extension of Springfield’s Andy B’s Bowl Social. Andy B’s Tiki Bar has a view of Lake Taneycomo, where guests can order tiki drinks, beer and other drinks. We’re eying the “Pin Killer,” a take on a painkiller. $
2940 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, beforeandaerbrewhouse
There are excellent beers, espresso drinks and cocktails on the menu here, along with zero-proof cocktails. As for what to eat, the snacks are stellar here. The loaded hot pretzel is an indulgence, and they serve tasty boards (with all the accouterments) that feature highend tinned fish as the centerpiece. $$ L D
313-B South Je erson Avenue, Springfield; 417-522-9009; bestofluckbeerhall.com
This downtown beer hall combines backyard charm with killer food and more beers than you can count. If suds aren’t your thing, try a seasonal cocktail or a dra punch. The extensive food menu includes flavor spins on cookout favorites, like juicy cheddarwurst brats, salty shoestring fries with dipping sauces, and kimchi-spiked fried chicken sandwiches. The beer hall also has a faux-turf lawn for rent for games of bocce, bags and more. $$ BL D d
1521 E. Broadway St., Joplin, 417-553-0665
Damien Tiregol of Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill now has another Joplin eatery. Blackstone Gastropub features hand-cra ed cocktails and 16 beers on tap alongside some great-looking eats like the crispy fried chicken, grilled salmon on a bed of gnocchi. Keep an eye out for Blackstone’s super-creative daily specials. Recently, we’ve seen a Seattle Roll with smoked burnt-end sausage and a ton of toppings, and smash-burger grilled tacos. $ $ L D
2040 E. Independence St., 417-887-0100
This brewpub has its own beer plus local beer that can be hard to find elsewhere. Here the menu is vast and the food is tasty. We enjoyed the burgers, and the apps menu included some super tasty options. This spot is also known for its cauliflower pizza crust. $$ L D
At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433
Just across the street from Branson Landing at the Hilton Branson Convention Center is Clear Lounge, a great place to grab a cocktail with friends. This spot is home to tasty food, good music and drinks. D d
COYOTE’S ADOBE CAFÉ & BAR
1742 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8897120; 807 N. Main St., Nixa, 417-725-6803, coyotes4wings.com
This spot is known for its 40 flavors of chicken wings, from common
(bu alo) to unexpected (tandoori spice). There are also tons of apps, sammies and entrees. $ BL D d
ERNIE BIGG’S DUELING PIANO BAR
505 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-2393670, erniebiggs.com
This piano bar serves more than great tunes.
The Branson Landing location has a small but yummy menu of gourmet pub grub filled with apps, sammies and pizza. D d
GEORGIA MAC’S
1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3195770, georgiamacs.com
The food is hearty and comforting with a southern flare at this south Springfield eatery. You can find loaded burgers, fried catfish, country fried steak, loaded fries with tons of toppings, and lots more. The chicken fingers are some of the best we’ve ever had, and the Georgia Hot Chicken sandwich packs a big flavor with mild heat. $ $ L D
HARRY’S COCKTAIL LOUNGE & BAR
at Big Cedar Lodge, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-3395200, bigcedar.com
This chic cocktail spot is located downstairs at the Worman House on the Big Cedar Lodge property. It’s a great place to stop by for a drink (they have excellent cocktails and a great wine and whiskey selection), and they also o er a menu of small plates and appetizers. We loved the short rib sliders and the strawberry Paper Plane. $–$$ L D d
THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB
137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-4255162, thegoldengirl.com
This rum bar on the southwest corner of Park
Central Square (with a great people-watching patio space) serves up handcra ed cocktails and a made-from-scratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. Try the Thai sticky wings for an unusual twist on a bar staple. Be sure to try the tacos, ramen and artisan pizzas. The pizza specials always come topped with creative ingredients for a seriously delicious and shareable pie. As for drinks, everything on the menu is reliable well-done. $ L D d
1424 E. Cherry St., Suite A, Springfield, goodspiritsandco.com
The owners of Good Spirits & Co. are behind some great local food and drink concepts (like The Golden Girl Rum Club, Sweet Boy’s Neighborhood Bar, Cherry Picker Package & Fare and Best of Luck Beer Hall), and their chic headquarters on Cherry Street is home to fun food-anddrink events. Check their website fro things like Supper Club dinners and cocktail events. $$–$$$
319 E. Walnut St., Springfield, job417.com
This spot is known for its excellent bourbon selection and elevated bar food. Longtime favorites include the Full Ride burger, the Codi Brah falafel sandwich, and the pepperoni pizza balls. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the O ce Crush, made with Rittenhouse Rye, housemade peach and black tea syrup, lemon juice and peach puree. $$ L D
318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688900, lindbergsbar.com
Forget about basic bar food. This storied wa-
tering hole goes above and beyond with creative takes on hearty comfort food classics. The burgers are delicious, but honestly everything we’ve tried has been impressive. The specials are always beautifully creative. $ L D d
1924 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-7003, outbackbranson.com
This Australian–inspired spot located along the strip in Branson boasts two bars, an outdoor party deck and extensive beer list. There is live music most evenings. What should you order to eat?
Try the cornmeal-breaded catfish. $ L D d
1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, 417-3513029, theroyalmusichall. com
This tiny and beautiful spot serves well-cra ed cocktails, bottled cocktails and finger foods like warm olives or rosemary and bitters glazed nuts. Be sure to visit when there is live music; the intimate setting makes for a great experience. $ L D
305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-8328277, springfieldbrewingco.com
Try the fish and chips paired with the beers that are brewed on-site. Also delicious are the burgers and the mac and cheese. This spot has a great pizza oven, so you know the homemade pizzas are a sure be too! And brunch is great too. Come for live music. $$BL D d
BOY’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR
310 South Ave., Springfield, 417-7194224, sweetboysbar.com
Come for pinball, a laidback atmosphere and a
small but very well done cocktail list. For something more like dessert, try the HellBoy, a frozen Irish co ee with a Fat Boy’s ice cream sandwich. $
2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7731985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-773-1985, vcellars.com
Small plates, snacks and tapas make up the menu at this spot. $ L D
W.F. CODY’S
3138 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8878083
The cheeseburgers are a specialty at this restaurant, and they are enormous. Don’t miss the ham and cheese sandwiches, another customer fave.
$ L D
CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL
815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com
This Joplin hot-spot serves some fantastic seafood, and we’ve enjoyed everything we’ve tried there. The Chilean sea bass is a specialty. Try some of the small plates, like portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. There are also some great entree salads.
$$–$$$ L D
ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT
4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com
This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that specializes in all things trout. The super-fresh fish dishes are made with trout that are caught on the property. We love the trio
appetizer, which comes with trout salad, smoked trout and a trout dip that is so craveable! Try the blackened trout. $ BL D
260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8511768; roo opvantage. com
This roo op bar at Hotel Vandivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and even o ers dining igloos in the winter so you can enjoy the scene all year long. The cocktails are refreshingly creative and classically well-done, and the menu of shareables and snacks bring the concept of bar food up several notches with items like the pork rillette tartine. Make sure you try something from the super-fresh raw bar. $$ d
5 Bass Pro Drive, Branson, 417-243-5100, whiteriverfishhouse.com
The freshwater fish is great, especially the almond-crusted trout or cornmeal-fried catfish. Try the salt and pepper calamari for an appetizer, or dig into the seasonal smoked fish dip. You can also find non-fish dishes like burgers, fried chicken an barbecue ribs on the menu too. $$ L D d
CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR
1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8238383
The former Touch Restaurant & Oyster Bar retains some standby dishes like bacon-wrapped dates and chicken Bijan in its new iteration as Char Steakhouse & Oyster
Bar (owned by the same people), but o erings of Waygu steaks, lamb shank and fish dishes up the ante. Indulgent lobster potato puree and crispy flash-fried Brussels sprouts round out the side dishes, and raw oysters, ceviche and bone marrow pique the appetite. $$$ D d
FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
314 West Walnut Street, Springfield, 417-862-4444, flamesteakhouse.com
The restaurant specializes in dry-aged steaks that are truly delicious. Don’t miss the lobster macaroni and cheese (we’re serious; you have to try this stu ). The desserts are always divine, and we can’t get enough of the appetizer menu. Head to Red Room downstairs for killer happy hour food and drink specials. $$$ D
JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB
1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8865466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com
We love the tasty steaks here. They are always prepared perfectly. The stu ed Peppadew peppers are a must-try appetizer; trust us, you need to taste those things! The peppers are stu ed with cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. And if you love a good salad bar, Jimm’s has one of the best. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the o -menu smothered ribeye for a little decadence.
$$–$$$ L D
2058 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8696947, facebook.com/ KobeClubSteakhouse
The menu here features wagyu and Japanese A5 steaks, along with a
variety of seafood dishes inspired by New Orleans and South Texas. The Gulf Flounder Opelousas features blackened flounder and Creole cream sauce with shrimp, crab and oysters. $$$ LD
The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433, level2steakhouse.com
This Branson restaurant specializes in steaks, but its gooey butter cake dessert is gaining a following. Try the Kansas City strip steak and the egg noodles with cheese. If you like to start your meal with greens, the Caesar salad is a must-try; it comes topped with fried anchovies. Also, don’t miss the fresh Hawaiian ahi tuna served on a Himalayan salt block. $$$ B D
1914 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-6306, outbackbranson.com
There are plenty of standout dishes at this Australian-themed steakhouse and oyster bar. Outback serves handcut, aged steaks using Certified Hereford Beef raised locally. $$ L D d
Downstream Casino Resort, 69300 E. Nee Road, Quapaw, Oklahoma, downstreamcasino.com
Dry-aged prime steaks are served in this restaurant’s fine-dining atmosphere. The sides are delicious too, with options like garlic potato puree and tru e creamed corn. Be sure to try the charcuterie board with all the usual goodies plus some house-made jam. A er your steakhouse dinner, hop over to the casino for some gaming fun. $$ D
RERICO BRAZILIAN GRILL
3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-8818882, rericogrill.com
Are you a huge fan of all things meaty? Try 18 kinds of meat for dinner, all sliced tableside. Dinner comes with beef soup, so rolls and unlimited trips to the cold bar with things like fresh cheese, pasta salads and more. $ L D d
WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE
1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com
Come to Joplin’s Wilder’s Steakhouse to find steaks in all sizes and varieties, all of which are certified black Angus beef and free of hormones and antibiotics. The restaurant’s menu also has a variety of other items like seafood and chicken. Check out the Route 66–era neon sign on the roof! $$$ D
BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM
1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417866-5533, bethsbakeshoppe.com
Try a chicken salad sandwich—served on cinnamon raisin bread. And we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette, and the couscous salad with fresh veggies and feta. $ L
MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM AND VINTAGE SUITCASE
211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8867000, robinsvintagesuitcase.com
The daily specials and desserts are the star of this tearoom and pastry shop on Commercial Street. There is always a quiche and soup of the day, plus desserts. $ L
107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331
The homemade desserts are to die for. Be sure to order them quickly before they run out—like you might want to order them before you order entrees! Don’t miss the veggie sandwich, the classic strawberry soup or the chicken salad. $ L
220 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7700147, myeverydaythai. com
This spot serves consistently delicious Thai dishes. Some of our favorites are the tom kha gai soup, the comforting yellow curry with chicken and the mango sticky rice dessert. $–$$ L D
1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8653204
This restaurant, located inside a charming old house on Historic Walnut Street, features a menu full of delicious Thai tastes in a cozy atmosphere with a shady patio out back. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig into the entrees with an order of delicious curry noodles or a spicy curry option. $–$$ L D d
SIMPLY THAI
2808 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8650101, simplythai.com
From the owner of Thai Express, Simply Thai o ers a similar menu of Thai restaurant favorites—and some Springfield-style cashew chicken too. The Thai basil stir fry with tofu is our favorite dish, and the magic noodles never disappoint. $ L D
TAI KITCHEN
114 E. Main St., Branson, 417-544-0581, taikitchenbranson.com
This family-owned spot serves fresh flavors in dishes like the Tai Beef Salad, Thai fish cake appetizer, and several types of Thai soups. Don’t miss the great curries they have here too! $–$$ L D
THAI THAI CUISINE
1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com
Thai Thai Cuisine o ers really great Thai food and a sweet sta . The panang curry is delicious, and it’s served on a little bed of fresh spinach. $–$$ L D
THAI EXPRESS
2113 West Republic Road, Springfield, 417-865-0101, 417thaiexpress.com
When you visit this friendly spot, don’t miss the Magic Noodle, mango curry chicken and volcano shrimp dishes. They are all tasty. The green curry is delicious, with a sauce so divine you might just want to drink it. $ L D
THAI GARDEN
3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8895280, thaigardenspringfield.com
There are so many great Thai options here, like nam tok beef, shareable bowls of noodle soup, stir fry and curry options and lots more. Get the fried bananas or Thai custard for dessert. Fun little extra: They bottle their Thai iced tea and Thai iced co ee. $ L D
THAI PALACE
3250 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7715640
The menu here is a mix of Thai food along with some Chinese and Japanese dishes. Try the green curry, fresh spring rolls, or tom kha khai
soup. And you have to pair it with a sweet Thai iced tea. $–$$ L D
THAI
307 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-7715300, facebook.com/ Thaisquare307
From the folks who owner Rama Thai (and located just around the corner from it), Thai Square offers an excellent menu of Thai food favorites. Our favorite dish is the salmon choo chee, but the spicy papaya salad and the traditional pad Thai are both tied for a close second. $$ L D
THAILAND STATION
1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3501001, thailandstation.net
Find all your favorites (a variety of curries, stir fried noodle dishes and soups) plus some surprises like crispy duck and stir-fried pork belly. We’re super-excited about the salad options, like the som tum (papaya salad) and the laab (ground chicken salad). $ L D
en pho is pretty good too! Really, anything with noodles is worth a try, and the menu has several clear noodle soups and egg noodle soups in addition to the pho selection. Get some fresh spring rolls while you’re there; they are delish. $ L D d
PHO
3433-C South Campbell Avenue, Springfield, 417-883-9999, phokimspringfield.com
Here you can fill up on Vietnamese staples like pho, spring rolls, a variety of bahn mi sandwiches and more. The chicken fried rice is extra crispy, and the chicken pho is just as tasty as the classic beef variety here. We love the fresh spring rolls too. If you aren’t afraid of heat, try the spicy beef noodle soup. Our favorite meal: fresh spring rolls, a lemongrass beef banh mi and Thai tea. $ L D
PHO SAIGON
2640 E. 32nd St., Joplin, 417-627-9966
BAMBU
1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8819881
The pho is a specialty here. You can add spice, herbs, jalapeños and sprouts to customize it. (Our favorite: Use all of the herbs, a couple of jalapeños and a squirt of sriracha.) Don’t miss the refreshing bun bowls too! The one made with lemongrass beef is a flavor bomb. $ L D d
2926 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3513915, facebook.com/ hongyenrestaurant. Come to Hong Yen when you’re in search of excellent beef pho. The chick-
Come to this spot to indulge in fresh spring rolls, vermicelli noodles, and big helpings of pho with lots of fresh veggies on the side. You can also order boba tea in several flavors with toppings like tapioca pearls, co ee jelly, egg pudding, popping boba and more. $ L D
SKULLY’S
1427 E. Cherry St., Springfeild, 417-3680949, facebook.com/ skullys417
This spot specializes in non-traditional takes on Vietnamese banh mi sandwishes. Try the one made with oyster mushrooms, or the marinated lemongrass beef option. Also on the menu: ramen, chicken wings, wok bowls, miso-butter noodles for the kiddos, lots of vegetarian-friendly dishes and more. $$ L D
HEY, WE HAVE A FEW MORE OZARKS MOMENTS TO SHARE WITH YOU BEFORE YOU GO.
Local businesses from across the Ozarks celebrated being a part of 417 Magazine’s Faces of 417-Land.
Continued on p. 112 >>
Name-worthy businesses from across the Ozarks celebrated being a part of 417 Magazine’s Faces of 417-Land over appetizers and cocktails.
Date: January 16
Hosted By: 417 Magazine
Location: Swann Dermatology Partners
Sponsors: Swann Dermatology Partners
1. Crystal Spriggs, Erica Hendrix, Riley Strickland, Kacey Spurlock
2. Tammy Shipp, Keylee Tesar, Lauren Burwell Uhl, Erika Crabtree, Joe Uhl
3. Andrea and Doug Windsor
4. Andrea Mueller
5. Burnis and Cindy Gibson
6. Jessica Harmison-Olson, Mark Harrington
7. Kurt and Christina Bravata
Springfield Catholic Schools’ 31st Annual Emerald Evening at Oasis Hotel & Convention Center was a “Night of Illusion” with dinner and a silent auction for guests supporting local Springfield Catholic Schools.
Date: March 29 Benefiting Organization: Springfield Catholic Schools
Location: Oasis Hotel & Convention Center
Sponsors: 417 Magazine, Brookline Doorworks, Garage Experts and more
1.
Giving back to the community is a top priority for 417 Magazine. Each month, we support local nonprofits that help 417-land thrive. We proudly support events by charities and organizations that create Good Times for a Great Cause.
Giving back to the community is a top priority for 417 Magazine. Each month, we support local nonprofits that help 417-land thrive. We proudly support events by charities and organizations that create Good Times for a Great Cause.
Bring
1. Costa Rica Belinda Baldus, Charlie and Sonya Daniels, Vickey and Don Vance, Kay and Reece Lancaster brought their copy of the “Live
Well” issue on their trip to Costa
2. Daytona Beach, Florida Therese and Bart Gold took their copy of the “Must Try Noodles!” issue with them to the Daytona 500.
3. Watson Lake, Canada Ted and Cathryn Gearing traveled with their copy of the “Summer on the Farm” issue to the Signpost Forest.
4. Cozumel Kimber, JJ, James and Janelle Haik took their copy of the “Must Try Noodles!” issue with them on their cruise.
5. Lookout Cay, Bahamas Elizabeth VanFosson brought her copy of the “Best of 417” issue with her on her trip to the Bahamas.
6. Nuuk, Greenland Eleanore Wall and Harland Thompson took their copy of the “Our Wild Places” issue on their cruise in the Panama Canal.
7. Brandon, Florida
Mark Smith and Alice Fast took their copy of the “Live Well” issue with them on their trip to Florida.
Linda Passeri has been an artist for 15 years, and this will be her sixth year at ArtsFest showcasing her paintings. See her work at ArtsFest on May 3–4.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
“WHEN I MAKE A PAINTING, I FEEL SOMETHING WHEN I PAINT IT, AND I HOPE TO TRANSFER THAT FEELING TO THE PERSON VIEWING IT.”
What medium do you work with most?
I create paintings and sculptures, and I have shown both, but this year I will be just showing paintings—just 2D.
You’ve been part of ArtsFest for several years—what keeps you coming back, and what makes this event special for you?
The event is special because it’s a fundraiser, for one. It raises funds for the arts council, which I think is very important in our region. The reason I like to do the show is because I get a direct connection with people viewing my work. I think when they come into my space, I get to see their reaction to my work, and we get to have a conversation about it. When they take a piece of my work home, then they have that experience to go along with that work.
How has your work evolved over the years, and what can visitors expect to see from you at this year’s ArtsFest?
My work has evolved into more of an art nouveau style that I couple with ’60s poster art—that’s my style. I like to show them the original paintings so they can actually see the brushstrokes and color in person, and then also I o er prints, which are a more a ordable option—I can do prints on paper or on canvas.
Visit 417mag.com to read our extended interview with Linda Passeri.
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