How music has shaped the Ozarks—and where to see live shows throughout the region
Connor Barnes, MD*; Lynn Frydrych, MD; Carl Price, MD*; Robert Shaw, MD*
78 features Sounds of the Ozarks
We dig into the deeply rooted history of music in the Ozarks—and tell you where to go to be wowed by musical talent at shows across the region and beyond.
92
Spring in the Desert
Hop on a direct flight out of Springfield to three major Southwestern cities that promise sunshine and adventure.
For this moody pic, we photographed
on stage at the Gillioz Theater.
Mark Brueggemann and Drew Axley
Laura French performs at Tie & Timber Beer Co. in Spring eld.
March departments
From The Field
The Long Way
At Home
Find handmade pottery pieces and more at Nighthawk Galley in Neosho. Read more on p. 25.
EDITORIAL
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
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 ABIGAIL DERRICK PHOTOGRAPHY, MICHAEL BAILEY-GATES, JOSHBEECHER, STEVEN BRIDGES, MARY ELLEN CHILES, RYAN CLEMENS, TESSA COOPER, SONY HOCKLANDER, HEATHER KANE KOHLER, MAT LOVELAND, MARK N. PHOTOGRAPHY, JIM MAYFIELD, RHIANON BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY, JEFF ROSE, MICHAEL SCHARPF, JESSE SCHEVE, KRISTIN SHARP, TARYN SHORR-MCKEE, ELLA TATTERSHALL, DAN WILLIAMS
BUSINESS
PUBLISHER LOGAN AGUIRRE logan@417mag.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AND CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS MEGAN JOHNSONmjohnson@417mag.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF STRATEGY AND SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE AMMIE SCOTTMOTES ascott@417mag.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JAMI WIGHTMAN jami@417mag.com
GARY WHITAKER gary@417mag.com JOAN WHITAKER joan@417mag.com
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JOIN IN Going Green
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St. Patrick’s Day, the one day of the year when beer being green is totally ne and not the symptom of a deeply strange problem with the keg, is just around the corner. Dress up in your nest (preferably also green) parade out t and join fellow 417-landers at the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. That’s not the only thing going on for St. Patrick’s Day weekend though—check out 417mag.com/ stpatricksday to see our roundup of events.
There’s Always Music in the Air
INSTAGRAM
This month’s feature on p. 78 is all about the music scene in the Ozarks. If you’re a regular at a local gig, or if you’re heading out of your comfort zone to catch a live act after reading about it in the feature, share it with us @417mag. Don’t forget to take a copy of 417 Magazine with you to submit a snap for Where’s 417.
GET OUT
Time To Hit the Road
417MAG.COM
Longing for a spring break trip but didn’t plan far enough ahead? Check out our roundup of the best destinations perfect for a quick, last minute trip out of town this break on 417mag.com/ weekendgetaways.
Patio Party!
417MAG.COM
About now we’re all feeling in need of a patio party. The Ozarks o ers patios aplenty, and we’ve collected them all together in a list at 417mag.com/patios, covering everything from local breweries to eateries.
ATTEND
Think Summit is Almost Here
BIZ417.COM/THINKSUMMIT
Biz 417’s Think Summit, presented by JMARK, is next month! Think Summit is the one-day, can’t-miss event for business professionals in the Ozarks. Don’t
miss this opportunity to network with our local business community and hear speakers like Silver Dollar City’s Brad Thomas, Nixa High School’s Head Football Coach John Perry and many more. Head to biz417.com/thinksummit for info.
Ladies Who Launch
BIZ417.COM/LWL
Tickets are also still available for the newly expanded, twoday Ladies Who Launch at the Branson Convention Center. Register now for the July 23–24 event that brings together the Ozarks’ businesswomen at biz417.com/lwl.
Save the Date
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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.
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Editor’s Note
the legendary Ozark Mountain Daredevils, plus one-of-a-kind musicians making their marks in real time like Chappell Roan and Jake Wesley Rogers.
LOUD AND PROUD
If you knew how many times we reached out to Chappell Roan’s PR team to ask if we could interview her for this issue, you might be a little embarrassed for us. We asked and asked, but no dice.
We get it, though. I guess when you’ve spent the past year absolutely taking over the music world, you might be just a little bit busy.
But can you blame us for trying so hard? There’s big, big hometown pride for this Willard-native musician who just a few weeks ago won a Grammy for Best New Artist. And let’s just say she had a pretty prominent place on my personal Spotify Wrapped in December too. It’s been so much fun to watch her soar.
And while she’s making waves worldwide, she’s also part of the Ozarks’ musical history—a history that reaches far, far back into the hills and hollers to produce everything from the Ozarks Jubilee to
For this issue’s cover story (p. 78), Custom Publications Editor and Staff Writer Jordan Blomquist explored all the nooks and crannies of the Ozarks’ musical timeline, including details on local places to see live music and some of the talented folks you can watch perform around the area. She started by attending an Ozarks Jubilee tribute event, hosted by Jeff Houghton and benefiting History Museum on the Square. It was a moment that brought the history of Ozarks music face-to-face with the talent of today’s local musicians, and it was the perfect experience to kick off Jordan’s reporting. You can use the resulting feature story as Part 1 of your guidebook next time you’re planning a night out. Part 2 can be the entire Taste This department (starting on p. 99), where we have filled the pages with tasty inspiration that will surely give you some ideas for where to dine out before your big music-filled evening in the Ozarks.
EDITORIAL
TALK TO US
The Best Speak Out
We are truly honored to be named Best Grab & Go Lunch by 417 Magazine’s esteemed Editors’ Picks.
MAMA JEAN’S NATURAL MARKET
We are Number 1 at being Number 2 once again! This is a spot we cherish very proudly! Thank you to 417 Magazine and all those that voted for us.
EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST PUB
It’s an honor to be your favorite Italian restaurant in the neighborhood! Thank you for your incredible support of Piccolo. Congratulations to all the Best of 417 winners! We’re in great company.
PICCOLO
We can’t contain our excitement about the amazing recognition from 417 Magazine! We are thrilled to be named one of your 5 Best Places for Lunch! Thank you for the incredible local love!
CITY BUTCHER AND BARBECUE
We love seeing the excitement brewing as local restaurants learn about their Best of 417 wins! And as for Early Bird Breakfast Pub’s comment on their runner-up status, well, let’s just say you’re a big, big winner in our hearts. We cheers you with an orange marmalade margarita!—Editor
To send us feedback or story ideas, email editor@417mag.com.
In the February 2025 edition of 417, we featured two super-tasty date-night cocktail recipes created by Camry Cowan of Miss Boston’s Cocktail Lounge. Unfortunately, we listed incorrect quantities for some of the ingredients in the Roses are Red, Violets are Blue cocktail. To see the full, correct recipe, search “Roses are Red” at 417mag.com. We regret the errors.
Microneedling
Contributors
You Belong
A FRIEND RECENTLY CHALLENGED
my thinking on what it means to feel like you belong. His argument is that instead of waiting to be included, you first contribute something. By contributing, you are seen as someone who cares and is invested. Because of this, you are sought out and, as a result, feel a sense of belonging. It’s the simple concept of reciprocity: the practice of exchanging things for mutual benefit. You’ll get out what you put into something, like we always tell our kids. Creating a sense of belonging is key to our mission here at Four One Seven. And your contribution
is acting on the ways in which we point you to living life to the fullest here in the Ozarks. This month, we hope you’re inspired to contribute to the amazing music culture here in our region by catching a live performance. From symphony to opera and jazz to bluegrass, in venues large or small, there’s a place for you to belong.
PUBLISHER LOGAN@417MAG.COM
Play That Funky Music
With so many talented musicians and genres featured in this issue’s cover story, the creative team had their work cut out for them. Instead of focusing on one person or genre, we instead tried to capture the feeling of listening to and making music for this edition’s cover image. The rest of the world disappears into the fog when the melody hits just right. We were honored to photograph two local legends, Mark Brueggemann and Drew Axley, on stage at the Gillioz— with a little help from a fog machine and stage lighting.
PHOTOS
KATY ST. CLAIR, BRANDON ALMS
BEHIND THE SCENES
Start Your Engines
Local racing prodigy Corbin Collins starts his professional racing career in the 2025 International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) season at just 16 years old.
BY JO JOLLIFF
From e Field
WHILE MANY OTHERS IN HIS SOPHOMORE class at Greenwood Laboratory School are just now getting their drivers licenses, being behind the wheel is no new feat for Corbin Collins.
Collins started racing at age 10. “It’s a funny story,” he says. “My dad and I were driving down the road and saw a kart in a Bu alo Wild Wings parking lot, and I was honestly captivated. So we dove into some research, learned about the world of kart racing and after lots of ‘please, can I race, Dads’ and convincing my mom, my rst season of go-karting was in 2019, and it all took o from there.”
His career rst started in racing at the Gateway Kartplex in St. Louis, and while he’s raced on many tracks since, the memory of his rst race stays with him today. “That rst race, honestly, I don’t think my heart has ever beat that fast for that long before,” he says. “But really, it was just a blast. I was running with di erent people, battling and ghting for a position. It was like being in a completely di erent state of mind than I’d ever been in before: exhilarating, fun, scary and just lled with adrenaline the whole time.”
Now on his seventh season of racing, Collins has seen a lot of success in his career, from winning National Auto Sport Association’s Rookie of the Year to holding track records and standing on many winner’s podiums over the years. But he considers his growth to be
his biggest accomplishment.
“I’ve grown immensely in my maturity level between my decision-making and ability to learn from my own mistakes and to take in coaching,” he says. “I think I have that to thank for my on-track success.”
As Collins’ passion for racing has grown, his family and team have transitioned from a variety of di erent types of sanctioned races, but one thing has remained true throughout.
“Everywhere we’ve gone it’s just lled with people who, more than anything, love racing and want to see people succeed in racing,” Collins says. “I think since I’m so young, a lot of people really kind of take me under their wing, which has been immensely helpful.”
With the help of his many mentors, he’s also been able to control his nerves behind the wheel. “I’ve learned to hone the nerves and turn that into a hyper-focus on the track, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have worries or doubts before I go out,” he says. “I de nitely do get nervous when I’m sitting waiting to go out.”
The biggest help for his time behind the wheel has been support from his friends and family. “We’ve had di erent live broadcasting systems in the car and they always love to watch, which really means a lot,” Collins says.
While many teenagers don’t have to worry about maintaining a work-life balance, Collins has learned how to properly juggle professional racing, school and time with friends and family. “My teachers are all really understanding,” he says. “I think
Corbin Collins is one of the youngest drivers in IMSA professional racing.
they all understand the weight of what I’m carrying here and what I’m trying to accomplish. But an open line of communication with them is really important when I have to miss the occasional Friday for a race. Obviously, it’s harder to spend family time because we’re gone on the weekends, but we still make it work. More than anything, it’s family and school. All of that comes before racing.”
For his 2025 International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) season, Collins will travel across the United States from Florida to California and to the Le Mans Invitational in France, in June. “First and foremost, my biggest goal would be results in this season,” he says. “But on top of that, I’d just like to learn and develop as a driver and make connections with people that are going to last a lifetime.”
In order to accomplish these goals, Collins plans to push through any barriers and continue to invest time in honing his skills. “My age plays a really big role in accomplishing my dreams because I’ve been hindered by it before with not being able to compete in certain series,” he says. “But I think having that in front of me and not letting it a ect me and continuing to put in the hours has really helped. On top of that, I’ve learned from every mistake I’ve made and can implement that on the track.
Accomplishing dreams is really a time commitment and a passion commitment, but if the passion and grit are there you can do it.”
“That first race, honestly, I don’t think my heart has ever beat that fast for that long before.”
The Upside of Life
Upside Down Mercantile, a retail development project of Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks, o ers a distinct lineup of products along with an inspirational message.
BY JO JOLLIFF
LOCATED AMONG THE OTHER ECCENTRIC BOUTIQUES AND restaurants on Historic C-Street, the Upside Down Mercantile (shopupsidedown.com) o ers handmade products and goods you won’t nd in any other shop, with more than 16 collections developed and dreamed up by local individuals with Down syndrome.
The Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks (DSGO) rst started the program in October of 2023 after seeing a need for supporting families and individuals with Down syndrome. “DSGO historically has been really good on the front end of life,” says Executive Director Scott Kirby. “We’re there at the hospital with gift baskets and care for new parents
PHOTOS BY KATY ST. CLAIR
MIDWEST NICE
Scott Kirby (left) is executive director of DSGO, the group behind Upside Down Mercantile.
that have a baby with Down syndrome. We celebrate this precious new life with them and give them resources, then walk them through all the next steps like special education services, but we started looking at life after school and job opportunities and there just wasn’t a strong presence.”
Beyond providing a space to showcase skills and talents, the DSGO team also felt the Upside Down Mercantile was the perfect opportunity to raise awareness for the community. “With Upside Down Mercantile the whole premise is that society has had a view of individuals with Down syndrome that focuses on everything they can’t do, whereas for everyone else they’re not subject to that and are instead de ned by what they can do and things they’re good at,” he says. “Unfortunately, many times individuals with Down syndrome don’t have that luxury, so we wanted to ip the whole narrative upside down—thus the premise for the name—so we can highlight what they can do and what they’re good at.”
Kirby recognizes that just like anyone else, not all individuals with Down syndrome are called to an entrepreneurial role, but he hopes that the store opens the door for other opportunities in other sectors across the community. For businesses open to hiring individuals with disabilities, Kirby worries over the potential for miscommunication surrounding what that should look like. “Families just want their loved ones to have the ability to be included in society and
“Unfortunately, many times individuals with Down syndrome don’t have that luxury, so we wanted to flip the whole narrative upside down—thus the premise for the name—so we can highlight what they can do and what they’re good at.”
I always say true inclusion is not a handout,” Kirby says. “It’s not hiring an individual with Down syndrome so that they can do some menial task over in the corner. Inclusion is giving them a chance to show what they can do and letting them go if they can’t do that work just like you would with any other employee.”
This standard is why Upside Down Mercantile only accepts products that are entirely dreamed up and developed from start to nish by individuals with Down syndrome and not simply done by a family member with their face on it. Throughout the process, DSGO provides support where needed, whether it’s with brand development or logo creation. “The idea is that they are very capable and so it has to be a product that they are engaged with and love being involved with; we just walk alongside them with what the product line needs may be,” he says.
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Make Financial Decisions with Confidence
JAMES FINANCIAL PARTNERS is a team of experienced nancial advisors committed to helping clients navigate complex nancial decisions with con dence. Located in Spring eld, Missouri, they proudly serve the local community and extend their expertise to clients throughout Missouri, including Ozark, Nixa, Rogersville, Willard, Branson and Hollister. Guided by their slogan, “Partner with us in con dence,” James Financial Partners empowers clients with the knowledge and strategies they need to reach their nancial goals and build a secure future.
As independent duciaries, James Financial Partners prioritizes each client’s speci c needs, offering personalized recommendations in estate planning, insurance, investments, lifestyle management, money management, retirement planning and tax strategies. Their independence means they can team up with top industry professionals to create customized nancial roadmaps tailored to each individual.
James Financial Partners is committed to exceeding expectations with remarkable client service that sets them apart from the typical Financial Planning and Wealth Management rm.
Transparency and respect are at the heart of their approach, helping clients clarify and pursue their nancial goals with clear communication and thorough education about their unique nancial situation. James Financial Partners’ associates are more than just advisors—they strive to be trusted partners who guide clients every step of the way toward securing their futures.
PHOTO BY KATY ST. CLAIR
Front row: Stacey James, Tyler James, Abigail James-O’Quinn; Back row: Annette Imel, Nicole Lindeman, Mike Nangle
From e Field
Approachable Artistry
BY MAURA CURRAN
NESTLED IN THE HEART of the Neosho Square is Nighthawk Gallery & Studio, a gathering place where visitors can both view and purchase locally made ne art—and a place for its owner, Cathleen Denise Bailey, to continue creating art of her own.
But before Bailey ever took the leap to start Nighthawk Gallery, she cut her teeth at another nearby spot called The Clay Cup, a business that’s part co ee shop and part art shop. Bailey started as an intern at The Clay Cup under the guidance of its owner, Je Jones. She spent her days helping out in the shop’s studio and teaching classes in exchange for access to the studio.
The Clay Cup would prove to be a crucial stepping stone in her art career, as Jones later o ered her a permanent place in his studio and served as her mentor.
Nearly six years after she started at The Clay Cup, a retail space became available in the Neosho Square, and Bailey knew that this was the perfect opportunity to make her newfound dream of running her own ne art retail gallery come to life. The doors of Nighthawk Gallery opened in June 2023, and Bailey says the location is everything she could ask for. The community seems to agree. “I don’t even know how many times I hear people come by and say, ‘I’m
so glad this is here in Neosho. I’m so glad you’re here on the Square,’” says Bailey.
Among a strip of other shops and businesses, Nighthawk Gallery ts right into the Neosho community. It’s homey and intimate with comfortable seating. Bailey doesn’t want it to feel cold or intimidating. She says she wants to make ne art approachable. “You know, we have $2,000 to $3,000 paintings, but then we also have things like handmade cards that are $4 to $5,” she says.
The space serves as a retail gallery in the front and Bailey’s personal pottery studio in the back. The gallery features some of her own work, plus anywhere from 16 to 20 other regional artists at a time, primarily from southwest Missouri. Many mediums are represented: paintings, sculptures, pottery and other small, hand-made items. To Bailey, it’s about more than just selling other artists’ work and her own. “It’s like my community service you could say, being able to bring this art to the community,” Bailey says.
NIGHTHAWK GALLERY & STUDIO OFFERS FINE ART FOR ALL IN A RETAIL GALLERY ON THE SQUARE IN NEOSHO.
In addition to owning Nighthawk Gallery & Studio, Cathleen Denise Bailey is also the pottery manager at The Clay Cup.
HIDDEN GEM
From e Field
Horseback riding and wine at Bear Creek Winery on p. 30.
March Calendar
The best local events happening this month.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
JOE GATTO: LET’S GET INTO IT
March 1
Fans of shows Impractical Jokers and The Misery Index will enjoy seeing Joe Gatto on stage in Springfield. The comedian has toured and sold out theaters across the country for his two-year “Joe Gatto’s Night of Comedy” solo tour. Those interested can purchase a separate ticket to the post-show meet-and-greet.
$25–84.75; 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; gillioztheatre.com
SEUSS SCIENCE DAY
March 1
Ozarks Public Television is hosting their 14th annual kid-centric science event at the Pat Jones YMCA, Seuss Science Day to celebrate Dr. Seuss. The event includes something for kids of all ages with story time, a Dr. Seuss birthday party, goodie bags for the kiddos, a chance to see big rigs up close, fun hands-on STEM activity kits and visits from the Cat in the Hat. Free; 9 a.m.–1 p.m.; Pat Jones YMCA, 1901 E. Republic, Springfield; optv.org
SHIITAKE SOCIAL
March 1
If you can’t get enough of mushrooms (in your home cooking or when dining out), then you might want to learn how to grow them at home. This workshop shows you how to prepare the logs shiitake mushrooms grow on, how to inoculate them with spawn and how to harvest the mushrooms.
$25; noon or 3 p.m.; The Workshop at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark; finleyfarmsmo.com
From e Field Calendar
STORMY WEATHER
March 1
This classical concert is the Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s March event. It features a performance of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony—a work that was chosen to commemorate the symphony’s 90th year. Fun fact: They played the same symphony by Beethoven at their inaugural Springfield concert in 1935. Guests also get to hear Overture for Orchestra by Grazyna Bacewicz and Violin Concerto by Sibelius.
$51–70; 7:30 p.m.; Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield; spring fieldmosymphony.org
TWELFTH NIGHT
March 1
See the Drury University theatre students perform William Shakespeare’s comedy, Twelfth Night . It tells the story of a shipwreck, separated siblings and a love triangle that is complicated by a disguised identity.
$14; 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Wilhoit Theatre, Drury University, at the corner of Drury Lane and Central Street, Springfield; drury.edu/theatre
GAZILLION BUBBLES
GENTLE FLOW YOGA
March 5
This gentle yoga class takes place at the scenic Ozark Mill and is great for all skill levels. Participants learn about mindful movement, breathwork and grounding techniques. The class ends with a mindfulness exercise and includes a free tea or coffee drink from The Workshop.
Basketball fans, mark your calendars. The regular season is about to come to a close, with just a few more games this month. Read on to nd out when you can see the Missouri State Lady Bears and the Drury Panthers play at home.
Missouri State Lady Bears vs. Illinois State Redbirds
March 6
6:30 p.m. at Great Southern Bank Arena vs. Bradley University Braves
March 8
1 p.m. at Great Southern Bank Arena
Drury Panthers Men’s Basketball vs. Missouri S&T Miners
March 1
3 p.m. at O’Reilly Family Event Center
Drury Panthers Women’s Basketball vs. Missouri S&T Miners
March 1
1 p.m. at O’Reilly Family Event Center
Put away the backyard bubble want, and level up in this one-of-a-kind show. See the beautiful bubble artistry of Deni Yang and Melody Yang, and learn all about the science behind these soapy wonders. You can also purchase VIPlevel tickets to get access to a fan meetand-greet.
$20–50; 1 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Sunday; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 514 Nicholas Road, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS
Through March 2
This musical comedy tells the story of a Texas brothel, the town around it and a do-gooder who tries to bring it down. This popular show’s original Broadway run won two Tony Awards.
$35; showtimes vary by date; The Historic Fox Theatre, 157 Park Central Square, Springfield; springfieldcontemporarytheatre.org
LET’S SING TAYLOR
March 2
Taylor Swift fans, this one’s for you. You can sing along to all your favorite songs from Swift’s super-expansive catalog, with a live band on stage to bring the music to life. Feel free to dress in your favorite era to really get into the part, and bring those friendship bracelets.
$29.50–49.50; 3 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; gillioztheatre.com
Take a long, late lunch and get a break from the workweek to see one of Gillioz Theatre’s Midweek Matinee showings of classic, beloved films. This month, you can see Annie Hall on March 5.
Free–$10; 2 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; gillioztheatre.com
BARN DANCE
March 7
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
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
March 7
See art by local and regional artists as you stroll through Downtown Springfield galleries and shops, like Missouri State University’s Brick City Gallery, the Creamery Arts Center, Fresh Gallery, Obelisk Home and lots more.
Sequiota Cave is usually closed to the public. So when the rare chance to hop on one of the guided tours pops up, you have to take it! You’ll learn about the biology of the cave and get a chance to
see a local spot that’s typically off-limits. Kayaks, life jackets and paddles are included. Kayaking experience is recommended. Call 417-833-8647 to register.
$10–12; 4 p.m.; Sequiota Park, 3500 S. Lone Pine, Springfield; parkboard.org
PINK MARTINI
March 9
This band performs songs in 25 languages and has been traveling the world with their multilingual show. Now, you can see them on stage right here in Springfield. Fun fact: Their independent record label Heinz is named after a band member’s dog. Charming!
$47.50–77.50; 7:30 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; gillioztheatre.com
TUKS CAMERATA IN CONCERT
March 13
One of South Africa’s best choral ensembles is joined on the stage by singers from Missouri State Chorale, Nixa High School student choir and Republic High School student choir as they perform South African music.
$24–35; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield; hammonshall.com
SPRING BREAK AT SILVER DOLLAR CITY
March 13–31
Silver Dollar City reopens for the season this month, and its first 2025 festival is Spring Break. Take the kids to see The Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience and to take part in the all the theme park fun, like thrilling roller coasters, fun shows, tasty food and inspiring craftspeople.
$92 adults, $82 kids; 9:30 am.–7 p.m.; Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway, Branson; silverdollarcity.com
CELEBRATION OF SERVICE
March 14
The Celebration of Service Bourbon Dinner at Big Cedar Lodge’s Worman House Bistro is an upscale four-course meal that pays homage to the U.S. Army
From e Field Calendar
Green Berets who fought on horseback in Afghanistan. They were known as Horse Soldiers, and Horse Soldier Bourbon Whiskey was named for them. The meal features this whiskey.
$198; 6 p.m.; Worman House Bistro, Big Cedar Lodge, 190 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale; bigcedar.com
EXIT LAUGHING
March 14–23
This on-stage comedy is performed by Springfield Little Theatre and tells the story of a bridge club, the death of one of its members, and a wild night of fun for the remaining friends who go adventuring with their lost pal’s ashes.
After meeting at Farmers Park in Springfield, hop on a bus with 37 North Expedition guides to Bear Creek Stables for a day of scenic, guided horseback riding. Afterward, guests head to nearby Bear Creek Winery to taste some locally made wines.
$129; starts at 10:30 a.m.; Farmers Park, 2144 E. Republic Road, Springfield; 37northexpeditions.com
ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE
March 15
It’s the 42nd year for Springfield to go green for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The route begins on Commercial Street before heading down Boonville to Park Central Square.
Free; 2 p.m.; C-Street and Downtown Springfield; itsalldowntown.com/stpatricksparade
BONNIE RAITT LIVE 2025
March 18
American singer Bonnie Raitt has made her mark on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and brings her unique blend of folk and blues music to Springfield this month. Her career spans more than 50
years and features hits like “I Can’t Make You Love Me.”
$83.50–128; 7:30 pm.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield; hammonshall.com
MIDWEEK MATINEE
March 19
Take a long, late lunch and get a break from the workweek to see one of Gillioz Theatre’s Midweek Matinee showings of classic, beloved films. This month, you can see The Wild Bunch on March 19.
Free–$10; 2 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; gillioztheatre.com
Fish Fry Time
Lent starts on March 5 this year, and that means the next six Fridays are for sh dinners. Here are some great places for fried sh.
Fish Fry
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
Springfield
This fish-centric event happens every Friday of Lent starting at 5:30 p.m. Check other local Catholic churches as well for additional fish fry events.
Catfish
Flat Creek Restaurant
Cape Fair, Republic, Bolivar and Webb City
The catfish here is some of the most perfectly fried we’ve ever tried. Make sure you douse it with some of Flat Creek’s homemade garlic hot sauce.
Fish & Chips
Farmers Gastropub
Springfield
Although the menu changes frequently at Farmers Gastropub, classic fish and chips are always an option. And there’s a good reason why: They are incredibly delish.
OZARK EMPIRE PRCA PRO RODEO
March 21–22
Come to this year’s rodeo to see horses, cowboys, cowgirls and excellent entertainment. There’s even a Mutton Busting event with fluffy sheep and cute kids.
$15–50; Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 301 N. Grant Ave., Springfield; ozarkempirefair.com
OPERA ROCKS!
March 22
This Ozarks Lyric Opera performance features rock and pop tunes from the 1960s through the 1980s. The vocals are all opera, but the instruments feature drums, guitars, horns and more. For $50 more, you can also get a ticket to the Red Curtain Affair pre-show event featuring drinks, appetizers and a talk with Ozarks Lyric Opera’s Michael Spyres.
$30–100; 7:30 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; ozarkslyricopera.com
SGF SPRITZ SOCIETY
March 22
Get in a springtime mood by having an Amalfi Coast–inspired spritz to drink. It’s the perfectly bright sip you need as you wind down after wandering around the nearby Pickwick and Cherry district for some shopping and fun.
2–10 p.m.; Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters, 1424 E. Cherry St., Suite A, Springfield; goodspiritsandco.com/ events
WOMEN’S MAKERS MARKET
March 22
Find something special for your home, for a gift or for yourself as you support local women at the Women’s Makers Market at MaMa Jean’s Natural Market. The store’s Sunshine Street location will be a one-day home to homemade products and fun crafts, and all vendor fees from the event benefit Springfield-based Safe to Sleep Women’s Shelter.
11 a.m.–3 p.m.; MaMa Jean’s Natural Market, 228 W. Sunshine St., Springfield
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From e Field Calendar
SWAN LAKE
March 23
The beloved Swan Lake ballet by Pyotr Tchaikovsky is more than 100 years old, and it tells the story of a princess who is turned into a swan by a sorcerer. The event is performed this month at Gillioz Theatre by talented members of Grand Kyiv Ballet, which travels to Springfield all the way from Ukraine.
$39–120; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; gillioztheatre.com
HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS
March 25
This beloved touring basketball team is known for its wildly impressive ball handling, entertaining humor and fun-filled audience interaction.
$42–351; 7 p.m.; Great Southern Bank Arena, 685 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway., Springfield; greatsouthernbankarena.com
BOB
DYLAN: ROUGH AND ROWDY WAYS TOUR
March 28
With more than 50 years of songwriting and performing under his belt, the icon that is Bob Dylan is still going strong. See him on stage this month in Springfield as part of his Rough and Rowdy Ways Tour.
$62.50–159.50; 8 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield; hammonshall.com
DO NOT DISTURB: DISCO AT HQ
March 28
Leave your phone in the car for this distraction-free dance party at the Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters. Just like the good old days! There will be a DJ there for excellent music, plus appetizers and drinks. And don’t worry: You can still document all the fun even without your phone; film cameras are allowed.
$40; 9 p.m.; Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters, 1424 E. Cherry Street, Suite A, Springfield; goodspiritsandco. com/events
Branson’s Back, Baby!
Branson’s winter break is over, and things are about to start picking up steam—just in time for Spring Break. Here are three things to do there with the kids during their break from school that we’ve been missing all winter long.
For Thrills
Silver Dollar City reopens for the season this month, so if your kids have been missing their favorite coasters, now’s the time to take them for their first ride of 2025. Our recommendation for a perfect day: Start at Fire in the Hole to ease your way in, then increase the thrills a little at a time by hitting the Giant Barn
SKY TOUR
March 28
Swing, Powder Keg, Outlaw Run and finally Time Traveler.
For Chills
Well, fake ones anyway. Visit the yearround Snowflex Park for some faster-thanyou-expect downhill tubing. The 400-footlong faux-snow slope is nestled in the center of Wolfe Mountain, which also features four speedy ziplines.
Stargazers, gather at Finley Farms to learn all about the night sky. David Jarkins of the Springfield Astronomical Society will be on-hand with a telescope and lots of professional expertise about constellations, double stars, star clusters, nebulae, planets and more. You’ll even learn how Finley Farms is working to preserve our view of the night sky.
This guided adventure through 37 North Expeditions includes a fly fishing lesson at Roaring River State Park, followed by
For a Little Friendly Competition
If your pint-size spring breaker has a competitive streak, head to one of Branson’s mini-golf spots. Pirate’s Cove Mini Golf is a fun one, with its swashbuckling theme that spans two 18-hole courses. Because what kid wouldn’t want to play putt-putt on a massive pirate ship?
wine tasting at Railway Winery. All fishing equipment is provided.
$75; starts at 10:30 a.m.; Roaring River State Park, 12716 Farm Road 2239, Cassville; 37northexpeditions.com
SEVENDUST “IN DUST WE TRUST” TOUR
March 29
Hard rock fans out there will be quite excited to see this band’s unique take on the genre. Sevendust has a Grammy nomination under its belt and has been making music for more than 30 years, performing at well-known festivals, including Woodstock.
$35–69.50; 7 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; gillioztheatre.com
BY
PHOTO
STEVEN BRIDGES
WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY?
March 29
The hilarious team behind the Emmynominated show Whose Line Is It Anyway? is bringing their live version of the audience-interactive improvisational comedy on the road. You’ll see Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis and Joel Murray create big laughs on-thespot using audience prompts.
$61–71; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield; hammonshall.com
SUNDAY SUPPER CLUB
March 30
Head to the Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters for its monthly multicourse Supper Club event. The meal featuring four inventive seasonal dishes and an intimate atmosphere; there’s only room for 22 guests. Be sure to add on some cocktails while you’re there. The cocktail game at Good Spirits is strong. $60; 4 p.m. happy hour, 5 p.m. dinner; Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters, 1424 E. Cherry St., Suite A, Springfield; goodspiritsandco.com/events
LADY LIBERTY DINNER CRUISE
Ongoing
Cruises on the Lady Liberty yacht start back up this month and run through September. They include a scenic cruise on Table Rock Lake and live entertainment, plus food and drink. Dates vary, so check online for specifics.
$120 adults, $70 kids; Long Creek Marina, 1368 Long Creek Road, Ridgedale; bigcedar.com
STAND-UP COMEDY
Ongoing
This month at Blue Room Comedy Club, you can see acts like Johnny W. on March 10, Joe Dombrowski on March 12–13, The Magic of Eric Eaton on March 27, Jeremy Piven on March 28–29 and more.
Prices and showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield; blueroomcomedyclub.com
BRANSON GUIDE
SPRING PROFILES
When you think “spring break,” picture Branson. Whether you’re into thrilling adventures, attractions or shows, Branson has something special for you. This guide will help you discover all the magic Branson has to o er during the spring months.
BIRCH & WILLOW SPA
417-544-0247
BIRCHANDWILLOWSPA.COM
4524 GRETNA RD., BRANSON
Escape to Birch & Willow Spa: Branson’s luxury boutique retreat where you will discover the ultimate sanctuary. Immerse yourself in a curated selection of luxurious spa and salon services, designed to relax and rejuvenate mind, body and spirit.
WHAT TO TRY
Birch & Willow Spa offers soothing massages, revitalizing facial, indulgent body treatments and premium salon services featuring the finest natural products, including Plant Therapy oils and Farmhouse Fresh’s farm-to-spa ingredients for a truly organic experience. Signature packages, like our “All Done Up,” include a classic manicure, pedicure and blow-dry styling for a sophisticated finish. Our mini spa package—a 90-minute retreat—combines a 30- minute massage, express facial and classic manicure, perfect for those seeking a quick yet indulgent escape.
After a leisurely stroll along the scenic 1.5-mile Lake Taneycomo, unwind and indulge at one of the 17 inviting restaurants at the Branson Landing.
TIP
Enhance your visit with access to our amenities, including a locker room with robes and slippers, showers, a sauna and a cozy lounge. Whether you’re here for a day of relaxation or a quick refresh, Birch & Willow Spa provides everything you need under one roof.
Come relax, refresh and renew with us at Birch & Willow Spa—Branson’s ultimate destination for total relaxation and beauty.
BRANSON LANDING
417-239-3002
BRANSONLANDING.COM
100 BRANSON LANDING BLVD. BRANSON
WHEN TO GO
Visit during the spring and summer and you can find live music from talented street performers as you stroll down the promenade shopping. Watch for some weekend concerts in our amphitheater in front of our amazing fountains with the beautiful Lake Taneycomo as the
background. Don’t miss the iconic fountain shows with 120-foot water geysers, fire cannons and synchronized lights and music.
WHAT TO SEE
Explore Branson Landing’s highlights, from anchor stores like Bass Pro Shops and Belk to 17 restaurants and over 80 shops and attractions. Plus, take a scenic stroll along the 1.5-mile Taneycomo lakefront boardwalk. Visit bransonlanding. com for upcoming events.
TIP
Swing into spring at Branson Hills Golf Club and book your tee time at branson-hillsgolfclub.com. Don’t forget to stop by Magnolia Grille before or after your round.
DON’T MISS
Head to Level 2 Steakhouse at the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel to indulge in their new spring menu and seasonal cocktails. Be sure to try their irresistible signature buttercake. Don’t miss Easter and Mother’s Day brunch. See details at level2steakhouse.com.
DOLLY PARTON’S STAMPEDE
417-336-3000
DPSTAMPEDE.COM 1525 W. 76 COUNTRY BLVD., BRANSON
Branson’s most fun place to eat, Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a restaurant and show like no other. Watch as 32 magnicent horses and a cast of top-notch riders thrill you with daring feats of trick riding and friendly competition.
WHAT’S NEW
New this year is a breathtaking segment called Butter y Dreams. Enter a magical world of winged horses; brilliant, blooming owers; and vibrant, colorful butter ies. Butter y Dreams showcases a stunning aerialist display that combines equestrian stars and incredible aerial acrobatics. The show culminates with an emotional musical conclusion set to a patriotic salute of red, white and blue—featuring “Color Me America,” written and recorded by Dolly Parton herself.
WHAT TO TRY
As the action begins, you’re served a four-course feast meant to satisfy those delicious home-cooked, country-style cravings. The menu includes Stampede’s Original Creamy Vegetable Soup and hot buttery biscuit, as well as a mouth-watering, tender and whole rotisserie chicken, delicious hickory-smoked pulled pork, hot-buttered corn on the cob, tasty homestyle mashed potatoes, a specialty dessert and unlimited Coca-Cola®, tea or co ee.
TIP
Get there early and enjoy a leisurely stroll alongside the open-air stables to sneak a peek at the horses. It’s your chance to meet the equine stars of the show up close and discover their awless beauty.
MYER HOSPITALITY
877-386-7829
MYERHOSPITALITY.COM
FOUR BRANSON HOTEL LOCATIONS
The Best Western Center Pointe Inn, Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills, Comfort Inn & Suites Branson Meadows, and Holiday Inn Express Green Mtn. Drive provide top-quality service tailored to every guest’s needs. No matter where visitors stay in Branson, they can count on a welcoming atmosphere, relaxing indoor pools and soothing hot tubs.
WHAT’S NEW
Comfort Inn & Suites Branson Meadows, owned by Myer Hospitality, is the most decorated Comfort Inn in the brand’s history, ranking in the top 1% nationwide. Additionally, travelers can explore the newly renovated rooms at Best Western Center Pointe Inn in buildings A & B.
WHAT TO TRY
Myer Hospitality’s hotels offer a variety of room options to suit every traveler. Families can enjoy accommodations that sleep up to six, while couples can unwind in spacious suites designed for a romantic getaway.
TIP
Vacation planning can be hassle-free with Myer Hospitality’s complimentary vacation planning and ticketing services, helping guests save time and money with no service fees. Additionally, local dining guides are available at all hotels, providing extra savings and recommendations.
Indoor pool at the Best Western Center Pointe Inn, located in the heart of Branson’s entertainment district.
SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS
417-334-4191
THESHEPHERDOFTHEHILLS.COM
5585 W. 76 COUNTRY BLVD. BRANSON
Whether you’re a local seeking a new adventure or family-friendly activities, Shepherd’s Adventure Park is the perfect destination for your spring getaway.
WHAT TO SEE
At the park, your family will nd activities for all ages. Explore the Ozark canopies and rustic scenery with the Zipline Canopy Tours. Inside the gated area, enjoy the Treetop Sky Trail bridges, slides, mini golf, history center, playgrounds, barnyard animals, family games and photo opportunities. For the more adventurous, head next door to Inspiration Tower and “ y” from the highest point in Missouri on the Vigilante Extreme Ziprider.
DON’T MISS
There is something for everyone at Shepherd of the Hills.
The Copperhead Mountain Coaster, Branson’s fastest and most scenic mountain coaster, o ers 4,800 feet of thrilling loops, drops and curves set against the breathtaking Ozark Mountains. It’s sure to be a family favorite.
From exciting rides to scenic views, Shepherd’s Adventure Park o ers everything you need for an unforgettable spring getaway.
SIGHT & SOUND THEATRE
800-377-1277
SIGHT-SOUND.COM
1001 SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS EXPY. BRANSON
WHAT’S NEW
Making its Branson debut, DAVID is a state-of-the-art theatrical experience the whole family will enjoy. From still waters to shadowed valleys, David’s legendary ascent to the throne is lled with tower-
ing giants, wild animals and Philistine soldiers. After unprecedented victories lead to devastating failures, this passionate warrior faces the biggest battle of all: the one within himself. Don’t miss your chance to come alongside this young shepherd on his journey to become a man after God’s own heart.
WHEN TO GO
Performances of DAVID run March 8, 2025, through January 3, 2026, at Sight & Sound Theatres Branson.
WHAT TO SEE
Come to Sight & Sound Theatres and see DAVID, the state-of-the-art theatrical experience the whole family will enjoy.
DAVID features state-of-the-art special e ects, including Sight & Sound’s largest and most complex animatronic to date: Goliath. Towering at 14 feet tall and weighing in at 800 pounds, this set piece is truly a giant! DAVID also includes the use of Sight & Sound’s famous LED screen. Currently the largest of its kind in theatrical use, the LED screen is three stories tall and over 110 feet wide that’s equivalent to the wing span of a 737 jetliner. Like all Sight & Sound productions, animals play
BRANSON GUIDE SPRING PROFILES
a key role in the cast of DAVID. Audience members can expect to see sheep, camels, horses, goats, birds and donkeys! The music of DAVID is equally impressive, featuring original compositions inspired by the Psalms and moments of David playing the harp live on stage.
TIP
If you’re visiting Sight & Sound Theatres, don’t miss their signature glazed almonds. Grab an almond cone to enjoy during the show, then take the experience home with a one-pound bag of cinnamon-sugar goodness, perfectly packaged for sharing or snacking.
SILVER DOLLAR CITY
417-336-7100
SILVERDOLLARCITY.COM
399 SILVER DOLLAR CITY PKWY. BRANSON
Silver Dollar City is gearing up for an exciting 65th season! From a brand-new spring festival to a dazzling drone show and plaza expansion, the fun and surprises will keep coming all season long.
WHAT TO SEE
A new festival at Silver Dollar City brings fresh ex-
periences for guests to explore. Master gardeners demonstrate raised bed techniques while the Kinfolk Bluegrass Band sets the stage for an old-fashioned hoedown on an oversized dance oor. The vibrant Parasol Sky decorates Valley Road with pops of color two stories overhead, and the Ragtime Piano Showman entertains at the Gazebo. At the Opera House, the famed All That percussion dancers from America’s Got Talent perform as part of the new Down-Home Clogging Jamboree. Red Gold Heritage Hall’s new Fest House features traditional Cajun, Dixieland and polka music. Guests can also savor
There’s always excitement at Silver Dollar City! Come and experience the fun for yourself this season.
spring avors like jambalaya pasta, shrimp po’boys, fried cheese curds, cornbread salad and an Ozarks sh fry.
DON’T MISS
Summertime entertainment! Night Sky, a new drone and reworks spectacular, features more than 100 drones lighting up the sky in a choreographed show with dramatic reworks bursts. The Wild West Comedy Stunt Show in Red Gold Heritage Hall delivers laugh-out-loud slapstick stunts. At the Opera House, the Silver Dollar Circus showcases world-class acrobats performing highying feats, Cyr wheel spins, hand balancing and chair stacking.
WHAT’S NEW
The Plaza, a new hub of fun and entertainment, will double the size of The Grand Exposition in 2025. The redesigned space features permanent shade structures, seating, a new entertainment stage and food booths. The Plaza is the spot for dance parties, the new drone show and the new Christmas experience later this year.
THE KEETER CENTER
417-239-1900
KEETERCENTER.EDU 1 OPPORTUNITY AVE. POINT LOOKOUT
Experience the enchantment of spring at The Keeter Center.
DON’T MISS
The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks
warmly invites you to plan a spring visit, o ering a perfect blend of unique shopping, ne dining and exceptional accommodations at its renowned, award-winning lodge. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the scenic campus from the private balconies of The Keeter Center’s well-appointed guest suites. In the dining room, indulge in ne cuisine while admiring beautiful vistas of lush green pastures and the iconic chapel steeple.
WHAT’S NEW
This season, The Keeter Center unveils an inspired spring menu that celebrates the vibrant avors of the season. Featuring farm-fresh ingredients and locally sourced produce, the menu showcases an artful mix of classic favorites and innovative creations. The talented culinary team has carefully crafted each dish to provide a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
WHAT TO SEE
Take in the fresh spring air as you explore the picturesque campus of College of the Ozarks. Discover treasures like Edwards Mill and General Store, a historically accurate working gristmill; the Stained Glass and Candle Shop, home to handcrafted candles and stunning art-glass creations; and the Ralph Foster Museum, featuring fascinating collections from bygone eras. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the campus and pause to feed the graceful swans gliding across Lake Honor, located at the heart of this idyllic setting.
LEARN MORE
For those planning a visit, gift cards are available. For more information, visit keetercenter.edu or call 417-239-1900. Experience spring at The Keeter Center— where every moment is a celebration of beauty, avor and tradition.
TITANIC MUSEUM ATTRACTION
417-334-9500
TITANICATTRACTION.COM
3235 W. 76 COUNTRY BLVD. BRANSON
WHAT TO SEE
Journey back in time at the Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson. Walk the grand staircase, touch a real iceberg and hear the powerful stories of passengers and crew who sailed aboard the legendary ship. With over 400 artifacts on display, every visit is a moving tribute to the Titanic’s legacy.
DON’T MISS
The Titanic Museum Attraction in Branson, Missouri, is honored to display the largest collection of Titanic life jackets. This rare and historic exhibit features the very vests worn by the passengers on the night of the Titanic tragedy, offering a powerful connection to the past. Of the 14 known life jackets left in existence, five are now reunited at the museum—together again after 113 years. Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to see these artifacts up close, as we honor the resilience, courage and hope of those aboard the RMS Titanic.
LEARN MORE
Reserve your tickets now and witness history like never before! Visit TitanicAttraction.com for details.
TheLongWay
CURRENTS
THESE FIVE PRETTY WATERFALLS DON’T REQUIRE A HIKE, MAKING THEM PERFECT DESTINATIONS FOR A QUICK, LOW-IMPACT WEEKEND TRIP.
BY SONY HOCKLANDER
PHOTO BY JEFF ROSE
e Long Way
EARLY SPRING USHERSIN WATERFALLSEASON, a favorite time of year for many outdoor enthusiasts. While we love a good hike to see fast-moving water spill into deep turquoise pools, waterfalls aren’t just for hikers. Luckily, the Ozarks is home to several scenic waterfall spots that are easy to reach within yards of parking a car. Here are ve to try.
Grand Falls
1 hour west of Spring eld in Joplin
This 12-foot-tall continually running waterfall in nearby Joplin lives up to its name. The wide, impressive falls ow over chert rock on Shoal Creek, attracting locals and visitors to its shores. The waterfall at 5685 Riverside Drive is easy to reach, especially from a small parking lot within view, although you may need to park along the road on busy weekends. An easy path leads to the shore, or make your way over the rocky bank.
Pinion Creek Falls
1.75 hours southwest of Spring eld in Bella Vista, Arkansas
This fairytale-like waterfall in Bella Vista can be reached via Bella Vista’s Back 40 mountain bike trail system. But you can skip the ride or hike and go straight to the falls by parking on a side road—Pinion Drive, o Bella Vista Way—just west of the Lake Ann spillway. The waterfall on Pinion Creek is a delightful surprise just steps from parking. Flowing over a series of stairstep rocky shelves, the waterfall drops about 15 feet under a pretty footbridge.
Falling Water Falls
2.6 hours south of Spring eld near Ben Hur, Arkansas
One of the loveliest waterfalls to easily see, Falling Water Falls makes a photogenic stop while on an Arkansas road trip. Falling Water Creek in the Richland Creek area is known for several waterfalls, but Falling Water Falls is a must-see. It’s so popular, a larger parking area was established nearby on Upper Falling Water Road. If you park next to the falls, you can see it from your car. Dropping into a pretty pool from a 10-foot-tall shelf, this waterfall is a gem.
Rocky Falls
2.3 hours east of Springfield near Eminence, Missouri
Early spring is a great time to enjoy the natural beauty of Rocky Falls, which becomes a crowded popular swimming hole in the summer. This 40-foot-high shut-ins waterfall flows over reddish rhyolite rocks that formed more than a billion years ago. Flowing into a deep pool with a gravel shore, it’s easy to view after walking a short path from a wide parking lot. Find Rocky Falls about 20 minutes southeast of Eminence off Route H to Route NN.
Devil’s Den Dam Falls
2.5 hours southwest of Springfield in Devil’s Den State Park, Arkansas
The dam waterfall at Devil’s Den State Park is another “park and see” waterfall that’s both pretty and easily viewed. The waterfall emerges from Lake Devil and spills down a rocky wall into Lee Creek. A parking lot nearby makes it easy to reach. Depending on the flow, you can walk out to the top of the dam falls. Catch another nice view from a suspension bridge over Lee Creek downstream from the dam.
cozy fireplaces, private jacuzzis and a warm breakfast at Walnut Street Inn, the perfect retreat for city romance and relaxation.
Grand Falls (top left), Falling Water Falls (top right) and Pinion Creek Falls (bottom left) are easily accessible, scenic stops.
“Overlooking the scenic Branson Hills, this new location marks an exciting step forward for the team.”
Expand Vision, Shape Futures
SWANN DERMATOLOGY PARTNERS is thrilled to announce the opening of a state-of-the-art facility at 111 Pinehurst Drive in Branson Hills, set to welcome patients in fall 2025. Overlooking the scenic Branson Hills, this new location marks an exciting step forward for the team, which currently serves the Hollister community.
The expanded facility allows Swann Dermatology to bring its expertise closer to the heart of Branson, o ering care for all ages. From pediatric to adult dermatology, the team provides services addressing a wide range of skin concerns. Their o erings include advanced treatments such as Mohs surgery, performed by fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon Dr. Neill.
Patients will also bene t from the expertise of a highly skilled team that includes Hannah Lee, PA-C; Patricia Duggan, PA-C; Lori Miller, PA-C; and Brooklyn Fort, NP. Together, they are focused on delivering exceptional care while creating long-term relationships with their patients.
The Swann Dermatology Partners team looks forward to continuing its mission of providing the community with top-level care. They are eager to welcome new and returning patients to the Branson Hills location this fall.
AS WE BEGIN TO COME outof hibernation, Mother Nature is following closely behind. There are lots of local spots around 417-land where you can view the owering trees and early bloomers of spring’s personal garden.
West Springfield
Your rst stop (and maybe also your second, third and fourth) should be Spring eld Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park. The botanical gardens o er a huge variety of plants throughout The Master Gardener Demonstration Garden, Four Season Gar-
den, White Garden and other scenic spots peppered around the sprawling Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park. Crocuses are visible starting in late February, while da odils and forsythia can be seen in midMarch. Da odils by the thousands are especially visible near the Anne Drummond statue, near the ornamental grass garden and throughout numerous owerbeds. Visit again a little later in the season to see hyacinth and lily and star magnolias in mid-March; tulips and bluebells in early April; lilacs and hostas in mid-April; irises, peonies and violets in mid-May; and Annabelle hydrangeas and St. John’s Wort in late May. And if owering trees are more your speed, visit in March and April to see the redbud garden. It has a sweet gazebo in the center, where you can sit surrounded by vibrant purple blooming trees.
Near Downtown Springfield
Other Spring eld-area parks explode with color this time of year too. You can nd several in and around downtown. Jordan Valley Park o ers blooms such as da odils, witch hazel, spice viburnum and lilac bushes all throughout the park. Tulips, redbud trees and da odils can be viewed in WaterWise Garden, located in Phelps Grove Park at the corner of National Avenue and Linwood Street. And on Historic Walnut Street, Dominion Gardens & Arboretum gives visitors an opportunity to view prime spring blooms a little later in the season, with white and pink dogwood trees that bloom in April.
North Springfield
On the north side of Spring eld, the yard surrounding Valley Water Mill Equestrian Center’s main o ce has mix of crocus, daffodils and tulips. Even Dickerson Park Zoo has something to o er; a long row of forsythia bushes can be seen between the zoo parking entrance, along Norton Road.
GREEN SPACES / BY MAURA CURRAN
Keep an eye out for forsythia (left) and other seasonal blooms that explode with color in early spring.
SCENIC ROUTE
A Hidden Ozarks Gem
Crane Creek trail is a charming place for a quick spring hike, and a side trip to the nearby town of Crane o ers options for making it a full day.
SONY HOCKLANDER
THE FIRST TIME WE HIKED CRANE CREEK we were instantly charmed. Not only does this small creek harbor surprising residents—Blue Ribbon rainbow trout— but its wooded fairy-like setting is worth a side trip from nearby destinations, especially in the spring. You won’t stumble onto this hidden gem by accident: Its obscurity about 40 minutes from Springeld adds to its charm, as does its shing heritage.
PHOTO BY SONY HOCKLANDER
More than three miles of Crane Creek and nearly four miles of trails are part of the 1,002-acre Wire Road Conservation Area in and around the small town of Crane. The conservation area— named for a pre-Civil War road that followed the telegraph line—consists of several tracts of land with historic ties to the Cherokee Trail of Tears and the Butter eld Stage route. Today, the conservation area features multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and shing access. Several trails are marked to allow horses and bikes. (Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.) We like the 2-mile out-and-back trail along the creek for hikers only. To access the trail, park in a conservation area lot o Old Wire Road northeast of Roundhouse Road. From here, follow the trail west into the woods until you reach the creek and the trail curves. Once leaves return, treetops provide a protected canopy while wild owers add pops of color to the spring green under-
story. The narrow trail meanders with the creek for the most part, which makes it easy to explore along its gravel bank. If you like to sh and hike, you’ll love this trail also for the ease of taking your shing gear. It’s a marvel that this creek— neither very wide nor very deep—is home to wild rainbow trout. Trout are not native
DISCOVER THE
SkinBar
DIFFER E NCE
to Missouri, and in the late 1800s, the creek was originally stocked with trout brought from the McCloud River in California. Stocking continued until 1967, but since then, the trout have naturally reproduced, sustaining their population. A snorkel survey last September revealed roughly 850 trout per mile in the conservation area—the most since surveys began in the 1990s, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation. Trout aside, this trail provides a peaceful, photogenic hike for an escape from the ordinary.
As long as you’re visiting Crane Creek at the Wire Road Conservation Area, stop by a few quaint shops in downtown Crane, including Peddler’s Junction Flea Market. Then, to extend your day out, head south about 20 minutes to dine at the quirky original lakeside Flat Creek Restaurant at Cape Fair on Table Rock Lake. Whether you make it a side trip or a day trip destination, hiking along Crane Creek makes a lovely spring outing.
At
Head to Crane for some wild rainbow trout fishing and a catfish meal at Flat Creek Restaurant.
At Home
THE HOSMER FAMILY HOME IS FULL OF OLD CHARM AND EUROPEAN FLAIR.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
cINDY HORNER-HOSMER HAS HAD A LOVE for older homes for much of her life. Perhaps it was her father, John Horner’s in uence, someone who has and continues to cherish older homes in the Rountree area.
“It’s the charm, the character that I love, “ says Cindy. “These homes were built with quality products you can’t nd anymore.” Along with enjoying her 1939 home on Catalpa Street, she’s also made it her mission to educate others on the importance of older homes through the Rountree Council for Preservation. “There are several members now, but our goal is to mainly educate,” says Cindy. “ We want people to be proud of their homes, and we really care about the neighborhood.” The council encourages people to take the time to do their renovations with historic preservation in mind with speakers, home tours and neighborhood walks. Cindy believes that it’s absolutely worth the extra time and money in the end. Plus, with older homes, the walls can be lled with as much intrigue as history; you can knock down a wall and nd something interesting, she says.
It’s been 13 years since the Hosmer family moved into their home on Catalpa Street. It had previously been purchased by
enjoying a meal near the replace. The green table isn’t the only unique pop in the home, which lacks neither color nor personality. “My sister and I went to Europe recently; it was something we’ve always wanted to do together because we both love older homes,” says Cindy. “We were in France mainly, but we loved all the colorful interiors.”
Horner, who wanted the house (which had once been his great aunt’s) to stay in the family. The Hosmers soon purchased it from Horner and began a few renovations. Keeping to the home’s colonial style, they focused their e orts on the kitchen, the bathroom and a sunroom on the east side of the home. The Hosmers’ kitchen is a beautiful and inviting space that opens up to a dining and sitting area. The kitchen’s creamy mushroom cabinetry and marble tile is simple and feels very European. “I really like traditional English designs,” says Cindy. “The Europeans know how to keep beauty in their life, but it doesn’t always come easy.” Cindy is inspired by a slower way of doing things that doesn’t sacri ce beauty for convenience.
The kitchen looks out to a skinny green table that stretches the whole length of the dining room. You can’t help but imagine their large family all seated together
From ditsy wallpaper and oral furniture and an eclectic mix of antiques, Cindy’s home is very reminiscent of an older European home. It took her time to develop her style and really know what she loved. She began collecting things that she would end up having forever. “You get to a point where you love everything in your home,” says Cindy. “You know what your style is and it’s really refreshing.”
HOT TICKET
See historic homes like this one in the Rountree Homes Tour, May 9–10
This time of year, Cindy enjoys gardening in her side gardens. The backyard has a lot of trees and shade, so she’s learned to be resourceful and mix her owers and tomatoes together on each side of her home. “I actually really love how the mix looks,” says Cindy. She enjoys bringing spring owers into her home and is always in the kitchen cooking or baking. “I bake all my own bread,” says Cindy. “I’m constantly baking.” The Hosmer home has quite the storybook aesthetic. Guests are welcomed by the smell of fresh baked bread and pops of green from all the beautiful plants inside, including a lemon tree in the sunroom. The whole home is enchanting; it’s no wonder Cindy loves everything in it.
Cindy HornerHosmer (far left) has created a home filled with old European vibes, like colorful accents paired with quaint ditsy-patterned wallpaper.
BROOKLINE DOORWORKS knows the garage door is one of the most powerful tools for transforming a home’s exterior. Yet too often, it’s treated as an afterthought. Take, for example, a home in a quiet Spring eld neighborhood with tidy landscaping and classic stone details— but a plain white garage door that faded into the driveway. It didn’t match the care the homeowners had put into their property. Brookline Doorworks replaced it with a rich, wood-toned design that added warmth and character. This simple upgrade completely revitalized the home’s exterior, making it a standout in the neighborhood.
In another project, a spacious brick home had garage doors that blended into the facade, leaving the house feeling at and uninspired. Brookline reimagined the space with sleek, modern doors featuring clean lines and large, upper-panel windows. The new design brought lightness, contrast, and a contemporary edge to the home, perfectly complementing its brick exterior.
Brookline Doorworks believes every home deserves a garage door that stands out. By focusing on design, detail, and purpose, they turn overlooked spaces into unforgettable features. With every project, Brookline helps homeowners reimagine their homes, creating spaces that are as unique and inviting as the people who live there.
At Home
IN THE GARDEN
Celebrate Spring with a Dogwood Tree
Decorate your home’s landscape with Missouri’s most iconic blossoming tree, the owering dogwood.
A sure sign of spring in the Ozarks is the abundant display of flowering dogwood, the Missouri State Tree. Showy white and pink flower-like bracts, which are actually leaves, can be spotted in many of Missouri’s neighborhoods and parks. The flowering dogwood (or the Cornus florida) is a favorite for its year-round beauty. The trees are usually their best in the month of April. And although spring may be when these flowering trees really wow, the bright red and orange foliage in the fall is a welcomed sight as well. Winter brings
bright red fruit for a final splash of color and a tasty snack for many critters like chipmunks, foxes, squirrels, deer, rabbits and skunks. Birds also forage for their fruit, and insects feed o the dogwood’s sap.
If you’re looking to add a tree to your landscaping, the flowering dogwood is an excellent choice, and not only for its looks. It’s easy to care for and easy to find at your local nursery, and they are great contributors to many ecosystems. A bareroot or a nursery leafed-out tree can be planted in the spring—just make sure you accommo-
date enough space for the root ball. If planting a leafed-out tree, you’ll want to dig the hole two to three times the width of the root ball. Make sure you pick a shady spot with morning sun in an area with well draining and fertile soil. It’s a good idea to remove any dead or damaged roots before planting, and soak the roots in water for about four hours while you prepare the hole. Ask your local nursery for tips on fertilizing. The only major decision you’ll need to make is whether you want pink or white blooms on this Missouri favorite.
/ BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
At Home
LIFE IS TOO SHORT FOR BORING WHITE WALLS. PEEK INSIDE THE HOME OF JEREMY RABE, WHO INCORPORATES COLOR AND ARTFUL TOUCHES IN EVERY ROOM.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
ARTFUL SPACES
Jeremy Rabe (pictured in the primary bedroom) uses bold wallpaper in his home.
HE HOME OF LIFESTYLE
Thost and producer Jeremy Rabe is a playground of color and pattern, full of boldly wallpapered walls, fun furniture pieces and vibrant lighting. Rabe is no stranger to DIY projects, and he took it upon himself to do many of his own renovations. His creativity and love for bold design helped him envision the home in a completely new way. “I would describe my style as bold, colorful, eclectic, contemporary and meaningful,” says Rabe. “I like to make a statement.”
Rabe’s house was built in 1975 and sits on 6 acres of land. It was rustic when he purchased it. During a three-year remodel, Rabe focused on creating a more modern look, while still maintaining some of the rustic wood elements.
The dining room was one space he felt like he could really go “over the top.” He chose to darken the space, creating an inviting and cozy mood. “I have been in love with dark, haunting colors, like navy blue, for a while now,” says Rabe. “I know many would think that painting a smaller dining room this dark color would make it feel smaller, but with the addition of wainscoting, and large-scale art and decor, it feels much larger.” The wallpaper in the space was inspired by a blown glass chandelier that sparked memories of Rabe’s time working in cruise ships. He would visit ports of call in the Caribbean, where he saw sculptures by Dale Chihuly. “I found a beautiful, oral, largeprint wallpaper mural that not only contained the perfect colors, it also added to the moody ambiance I was hoping to create.”
Originally, the primary bedroom space was a sitting room that later Rabe converted it into a large bedroom, but when it came to the design of the space, Rabe was unsure about the direction he wanted to go. “I was kind of at a standstill,” says Rabe. “Then, I was watching And Just Like That on HBO and saw the most amazing wallpaper in the apartment of Carrie Bradshaw, aka Sarah Jessica Parker.” At the time the paper wasn’t
NI SE KAY WRIGHT
Photo by Starboard & Port
At Home
available, but after a year Sarah Jessica Parker launched her wallpaper line and Rabe was able to purchase it. Once he had the wallpaper in-hand, it inspired the rest of the bedroom’s design, including a large carnation print in the perfect shades of blue.
Another bold space that stands out in Rabe’s home is the powder room. “I love an over the top powder room,” says Rabe. “A room that guests will use and that will also be a conversation starter.” When the wallpaper search began for that space, Rabe found a Fornasetti-style print that reminded him of some Fornasetti plates he fell in love with while traveling through Europe. The paper had the same feel as the plates, black and white with the face of a woman, who happened to be Hollywood icon and fashion goddess Audrey Hepburn. “I thought it was a great way to incorporate my experiences and travels in Italy with a quirky and unique take on a famous print for a small powder room,” says Rabe. “I like to call it quirky, contemporary chic!”
Rabe loves to embrace his love of bold style in the form of many DIY projects in and around his home. He says he loves when a home tells a story, and many of the colors, wallpapers, tile, art and decor in his house have personal meaning. They are inspired by his life and his travels. When he looks at things in his house, he says, they remind him of a story. Almost everything in his home has a story to it, and chances are, he did the work himself too. “There is no better feeling than doing a project in your home, taking a step back, looking at the nished project, and saying, ‘ Yeah, I did that,’” says Rabe.
Bold artwork adds personality to the living space (above), while the bathroom features striking wallpaper.
At Home
A Fairytale
Manor
A LOCAL DREAM TEAM USES TIMBER WORK, NATURAL STONE AND COPPER DETAILS TO EVOKE ROMANTIC, OLD WORLD EUROPE.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS
MANY OLD HOMES HAVE SECRETS—HIDDEN DOORS, concealed rooms or tucked-away pantries that surprise visitors. But the home of Mike and Fran Strange has an even bigger secret: it’s that it’s actually not old at all. The homeowners wanted their new construction in east Springfield to look and feel like an old French manor that had been remodeled. A large part of the home’s storybook appearance, designed by Ron Hill of Euro World Design, is the exterior. “We really wanted a 100% stone exterior,”
PEEK INSIDE
Fran and Mike Strange and their dog Rambo relax in their elegant dining room.
“Fran and Mike wanted to create a modern and vintage vibe throughout their home. They wanted some sass with class and the unexpected around the corner.”
— Denise Wright, DKW Designs
says Mike. “The stone changes colors. It’s white but when it’s humid you see blues and greens, and when it’s dryer it’s more yellow.” The team stayed true to what you would see in Europe, which is what they do best. Mike is a builder, owning M.W.S. Construction and building a lot of homes in Brazil. Ron Hill designs homes overseas as well. “The complicated roof structure, the dormers and shutters, the copper, the exterior is just beautiful,” says Hill. “The timber work is by Ozark Timber Frame, and they did a wonderful job.”
With Mike taking the lead on the exterior, Fran took the lead on the interior.
“We both really wanted the same style,” says Mike. “I had overall say on the outside and she had overall say on the inside.” The couple wanted an open floor plan and lots of windows for natural light. The timber frame inside the home is a beautiful contrast to the more elegant columns that break up the spaces. The black and white checkered flooring creates the same elegant contrast with the natural white oak flooring throughout the home.
At Home
In the primary bedroom, a timber frame truss system vaults up, creating a spacious and grand feeling, and the high windows allow for beautiful views of the woods. “It’s like a greenhouse,” says Fran. “We love to look outside and see all the wildlife.”
When furnishing the home, Fran worked with Interior Designer Denise Wright of DKW Designs. “Fran and Mike wanted to create a modern and vintage vibe throughout their home,” says Wright. “They wanted some sass with class and the unexpected around the corner.” The design duo gravitated to warm beiges and black walnut in the kitchen, along with bold patterns and crystal throughout the home. “The chandelier in the foyer was bought before we even broke ground,” says Fran. “I love the roughness of the timber mixed with more refined pieces.” Mike and Fran love everything about the home, especially how useful each room is. “We really use each space,” says Fran. “Like the dining room, we use it for breakfast, lunch and dinner.” No space goes unused and every inch of the home was meticulously designed, built and styled to be a home that whisks you away to France, even though it’s right here in the Ozarks.
The warm kitchen (top left) and stone exterior evoke the feeling of Old World France (bottom left). The foyer (right) is home to a grand chandelier.
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OZARKS
Music is a hidden gem in the Ozarks’ culture. Major artists have gotten their start here, and there are places all around town to hear some of the best melodies in the world. In this feature, we explore music through all avenues. We spoke with creators, historians, leaders and orchestrators. But it all begins with a speci c moment in time: e Ozark Jubilee.
WRITTEN BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
Instruments line the stage,
from banjos to ddles to cellos, each hinting at what’s to come. Je Houghton, host of The Mystery Hour, introduces himself to the audience and provides some background of the Ozark Jubilee. “The music history in this town is crazy,” he said at the event. The Ozark Jubilee was a live, nationally broadcast television show that rst aired in 1955, and it drew 25 million viewers. At the time, it put Spring eld on par with New York City and Los Angeles in terms of entertainment. It was a place where many country stars made their television debut. Legends like Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline and Red Foley graced the stage back in the day. Today, local performers like The Guinevere Goodwin Band, Abbey Waterworth and The Grass Pickers pay homage to the Ozark Jubilee and connect a new generation to Springeld’s musical heritage.
As people pile into the historic Fox Theatre, shifting across the funky-patterned carpet with the rest of the crowd, a man says, “Where’s the mosh pit?” followed by a whirl of laughs from the people in his vicinity. Folk music is playing over the speakers, and the theater is glowing with amber lighting and the joy of a chatty crowd. The audience skews older with a few token twenty-somethings who might say they’re here because they just like the music—or maybe their parents begged them to come along, hoping to share a glimpse of their youth. That’s really what tonight is about: The baby boomers are wide-eyed and eager to be taken back in time, swarmed by memories tied to melodies. While the younger crowd is hoping to learn something and get a peek into a life they’ve only heard about. They are together, bridging generations through music.
ABOVE LEFT
The poster for the Ozark Jubilee Tribute concert in November 2024
ABOVE RIGHT
The original Ozark Jubilee took place at at the Jewell Theatre.
RIGHT
The Grass Pickers band performs at the Ozark Jubilee Tribute concert at the Historic Fox Theatre.
For many, music is more than a way to pass the time, it’s the background noise of life and an emotional outlet. For performers, it’s a way to express themselves and communicate beyond words. And culturally, music can preserve history and pass songs, hymns and anthems through generations. People attend concerts together, discuss genres together, sing along in the car together and connect through lyrics together. This unity is made clear through events like the Ozark Jubilee Tribute concert. “I was a kid when the Ozark Jubilee was on in the early ’50s and ’60s,” says author and former radio show host Wayne Glenn. “I was proud of the fact that the show was being done locally.” That sense of pride sparked a lifelong passion for music. Glenn, who hosted various radio shows from 1975 to 2021, became both a history and music expert along the way. “The Ozarks can be identi ed as a separate area as opposed to the Appalachians or Western music,” Glenn says. “The Ozarks geographically is a separate area and was pretty isolated in early history—say, pre-World War II. There was a lot of isolationism that forced the people to be content with the music they were exposed to when they came here to the Ozarks as pioneer settlers in the 1850s and on up.” Those settlers carried music with them from other countries, creating a melting pot of genres that shaped the Ozarks’ musical identity into what it is today. “If you go to places like Ava or even Branson, you’ll nd younger people playing instruments that connect to older country music, folk music, bluegrass music—guitars, ddles, banjos and things like that—I think that’s encouraging,” Glenn says.
e Live Entertainment Capital of the World
BRANSON IS KNOWN FOR SILVER DOLLAR CITY, OUTDOORRECREATION, the live entertainment and restaurants on the Branson Strip and, more recently, as the o cial vacation destination for the Kansas City Chiefs. But above all, Branson is famous for its numerous shows and concerts that create rich music history. Dubbed the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World,” the city is home to dozens of theaters. The Baldknobbers are credited as Branson’s rst country show. In 1959, the Mabe Brothers began performing two times a week in a converted building on the Lake Taneycomo waterfront. The Presley family joins The Baldknobbers as one of the iconic music groups that have been performing in the Ozarks since the beginning—literally, since people were packing into caves to hear their family performances. Even before the Presleys, caves were a venue for a fun night out. In the late ’50s, the Presleys started a music show at the Underground Theatre—now known as Talking Rocks Cavern—near Kimberling City, featuring special guests from Ozark Jubilee like the legendary Red Foley. They later took the stage in Branson’s rst music theater on Highway 76 in 1967, and they’ve been there ever since, bringing a mix of country, gospel, bluegrass and comedy to the Ozarks. More and more theaters began popping up around them—including The Baldknobbers’ theater in 1968—turning Branson into a country music locus. The Haygoods are another iconic Branson band, following in the footsteps of The Baldknobbers and The Presleys but in a more modern way. The Haygoods have been performing in Branson since 1993, representing a younger generation of entertainers who keep the family music group tradition alive in Branson (read more about The Haygoods on p. 89).
TOP
The Presleys’ Country Jubilee is based in Branson, Missouri. BOTTOM Michael Haygood preforms at the Haygoods show in Branson.
e Next Generation
WHEN IT COMES TO REMINISCING ON PAST SHOWS, such as the aforementioned Ozark Jubilee, organizations like Ozark Mountain Music are key to keeping those musical traditions alive, providing a space for youth to practice and perform traditional dance and bluegrass music. “Old-time music was meant for dance and to bring the community together,” Executive Director Wendy Wright says. “Bluegrass was meant for performance.” Ozark Mountain Music hosts camps to teach youth how to play and collaborate as a band. Bluegrass Camp focuses on bluegrass performance, while the Old-Time Camp explores old-time music with square dancing and classic ddle tunes passed down through generations. Programs like these are keeping the spirit of traditional music alive in 417-land.
It’s not just classic bluegrass and country music— pop music has a home in the Ozarks, too. Spring eld native Les Garland has been a prominent gure in shaping the entire music industry into what it is today. A renowned music executive, he is best known for co-founding MTV in the ’80s, alongside Robert Pittman, WarnerMedia, Tom Freston and John Sykes. MTV was the rst 24-hour music channel and went on to launch many big artists’ music careers, setting the stage for the future of music worldwide. Speaking of the next generation, it’s impossible not to mention the incredibly talented Chappell Roan. With a sound uniquely her own, the Willard native is making waves in the music scene worldwide. Artists like Roan and rising pop musician and songwriter Jake Wesley Rogers remind us that it’s
not uncommon for people from 417-land to reach the biggest stages. “I started writing songs when I was 13, and Spring eld was my rst place I shared it,” Rogers says. “It kind of all began there.” The Ozarks have become a backdrop and launchpad for many people, o ering comfort as they experiment with their sound and share it with the world.
Roan and Rogers are the most recent artists from the Ozarks to make it big, but they aren’t the rst. Their rise coincides with the same time The Ozark Mountain Daredevils—who are arguably the most well-known musicians from the region—prepare to launch their nal tour. The Ozark Mountain Daredevils o cially formed as a band in Spring eld in 1971. Initially, they were called Emergency Band, then Burlap Socks, and later Family Tree before signing their recording contract with A&M Records. Eventually, they pivoted to The Ozark Mountain Daredevils after a “name the band” party, where the idea of becoming “Cosmic Corncob and His Amazing Ozark Mountain Daredevils” was proposed. Since no one in the band wanted to be Cosmic Corncob (for obvious reasons), it was shortened to The Ozark Mountain Daredevils. The band traveled the world including London, England, where they recorded their debut self-titled album in 1973. Read more about The Ozark Mountain Daredevils on p. 87.
The Ozarks provide many opportunities to experience local musical talent each week. From Hold Fast Brewing and Millsap Farms to Tie & Timber and local music venues like The Ri and Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, we encourage you to dive into the local music scene and experience the diverse sounds of the Ozarks.
The Ozark Mountain Daredevils perform in the Ozark Mountain Folkfair in 1973.
THE MIDWEST PRINCESS
Not only is she one of the biggest artists to emerge from the Ozarks, but she’s currently one of the most prominent voices in American music.
Chappell Roan is everywhere right now.She opened for pop star Olivia Rodrigo on her sold-out world tour, performed on Saturday Night Live, played a set at Coachella—one of America’s biggest music festivals—and headlined her own tour, suitably titled The Midwest Princess Tour. For every performance, she teases her curly hair, dons a dramatic eye look and steps out in a truly unpredictable outfit. But between the shimmer and stage makeup is someone who is genuinely her own. Chappell Roan is a stage name—her real name is Kayleigh Rose Amstutz. “Chappell” honors her late grandfather, Dennis K.
Chappell, and “Roan” comes from his favorite old Western song, “Strawberry Roan.” Thus far, Roan has stayed within the synth-pop genre, and much of her music is inspired by 1980s pop and artists like Kate Bush, Stevie Nicks and Karen Carpenter. Her sound is uniquely her own, though, with major hits like “Pink Pony Club,” “HOT TO GO!” and “Good Luck, Babe!” She has an energetic aura, and her music reflects that with an o en upbeat, moody and fun vibe. Oh, and did I mention she’s from right here in the Ozarks—Willard, to be exact?
Chappell Roan shot the music video for her hit song
“HOT TO GO!” in Springfield, showcasing iconic local spots like the Gillioz Theatre, Andy’s Frozen Custard, Route 66, the Giant Fork, Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, Alamo Dra house and Getaway Golf. The video features Roan performing her signature H-O-T-T-O-G-O dance at these locations, with a special cameo from her grandparents learning the dance. In November, Roan was seen filming again at Andy’s East Sunshine location. That same day, she made a generous donation of $27,484 to The GLO Center, a Springfield nonprofit supporting the Ozarks’ LGBTQIA+ community. In 2023, Roan released her
debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, which won her Best New Artist at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards and six 2025 Grammy Award nominations. She was up for Best Pop Solo Performance, Record of the Year, Song of the Year—all for “Good Luck, Babe!”—Best Pop Vocal Album, Best New Artist and the biggest award of the evening, Album of the Year. A er an on-stage performance of “Pink Pony Club,” she took home her first Grammy Award, winning Best New Artist.
The Ozarks were just the beginning for Roan, and we couldn’t be more excited to watch what she will do next.
BY RYAN CLEMENS
PHOTO
CHAPPELL ROAN
JAKE WESLEY ROGERS
THE NEXT ERA OF AN ICONIC MUSIC CAREER
This Spring eld native is releasing his rst full-length album, In The Key of Love, on May 9.
Twenty-eight-year-old singer-songwriter JakeWesley Rogers fell in love with performing before he fell in love with being an artist. Vogue coined him “Gen Z’s Elton John,” and he earned Elton John’s personal seal of approval, with the music legend noting that Rogers reminds him of himself at the start of his iconic career. Brené Brown called Rogers “pure light and love.” Through it all, Rogers credits his passion for the stage to his beginnings at Springfield Little Theatre. “Where I really fell in love with performing,” he says. “That place is so special—that that exists in Missouri—and in a lot of ways, it saved my life. That really began it all for me.” The Springfield native started writing songs at 13 and practicing them at local events like Cider Days and ArtsFest, o en using downtown street corners as stages during First Friday Art Walks. “My friends and I would try to make enough money to get something from MudHouse,” he says. “And we usually did—we usually got $40, and I felt really rich.”
At 18 years old, he moved to Nashville to attend Belmont University, study songwriting and truly enter the music industry. National tours with Ben Platt and Panic! At the Disco, appearances on The Late Late Show with James Corden and Late Night with Seth Meyers, multiple EP releases and a decade later, Rogers is finally ready to release his first full-length album, In The Key of Love, on May 9. “It’s the deepest I’ve ever gone on a project,” he says. “I wrote it over a two-and-a-halfyear span in the midst of a lot going on in
my life.” Creating this album was therapy for Rogers. It explores topics of love, spirituality and an experience that is transparently human.
The album is meant to be experienced in its entirety—from start to finish—because the order is very intentional. “It kind of goes back to my theatrical roots,” Rogers says. “There’s a lot of theater in it, and I think a lot of heart. It’s really a story of trying to be myself, which is the hardest thing to do.” The song “Kitchen Table” is the cornerstone of the album. It’s about a real conversation between Rogers and his parents, revisiting moments from his childhood that required deep processing—all centered around a brand-new kitchen table. “Which I just love as a metaphor because a kitchen table is where so many things happen in a family—everything really kind of centers around that,” Rogers says. “That song is about coming back home and coming back to that dynamic as a whole-hearted person who doesn’t want to live in the past anymore but also doesn’t want to repress it either.”
That awareness and connection also extends to Rogers’ relationships in the music industry, including fellow Ozarks-native pop star Chappell Roan. “She’s amazing, and I’ve known her since I was 16,” Rogers says. They o en cross paths through the music industry and find themselves reminiscing and giggling about life in Missouri. “When people are around us when we talk, it’s kind of funny because they have no idea what we’re talking about,” he says. “It’s just beautiful. I think she is absolutely so incredible and so inspiring to me and always has been.”
The theme of meaningful interactions and shared human experiences shapes Rogers’ music. In The Key of Love is a collection of melodies, stories and strong, steady vocals, and Rogers is eager to share it with the world. One of Rogers’ best friends and bandmates recently told him, “The audience doesn’t come to see you, they come to see themselves.”
“I really like that,” Rogers says. “I don’t want people to listen to hear me. I hope people listen to hear themselves.” For the next few years, Rogers hopes to be on the road, touring the country and playing many, many shows. “I can’t wait to play a show again in Springfield, it’s been too long,” Rogers says. “I love coming home.”
JOHN DILLON WITH THE OZARK MOUNTAIN DAREDEVILS
A TURNING POINT
After 53 years, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils are wrapping up their touring era. So, what’s next for John Dillon?
“We were all hippies,” is how John Dillon introduces the early days of The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, a rock band formed in 1971 in Springfield. “There was lots of freedom, incredible amounts of fun, huge amounts of spiritual creative energy and no money.”
Since the ’70s, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils have toured the globe, released numerous albums and had many musical eras. Today, the band features founding members Dillon and Michael “Supe” Granda, along with Ruell Chappell, Ron Gremp, Dave Painter, Kelly Brown, Nick Sibley and Molly Healey. The original lineup also included Steve Cash, Larry Lee, Randy Chowning and Buddy Brayfield. Bill Jones, Elizabeth Anderson and Rick Campanelli were contributors in the early days of the band. They recorded their very first album in London, England, at Olympic Studios with legendary producer Glyn Johns, who worked with many other iconic artists such as the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, The Who, Led Zeppelin and the Eagles. “A couple of guys had never even been on an airplane,” Dillon says. “Next thing you know, you go to London and you record a record.” He describes the experience of recording their first album as scary, magical and intimidating. “We were in territory that was unknown to us,” he says. “It’s hard to describe something like that. It just overtakes you, and you’re thrust into a business or a world that you had no idea even existed.”
That world led them to a life of adventure, thrills and countless unpredictable moments. The Ozark Mountain Daredevils went on to have many well-known and number-one hits like “Jackie Blue” and “If You Wanna Get to Heaven.” They
recorded six albums plus the packages Greatest Hits and Best Of with A&M Records—the world’s largest independent recording label at the time, prior to its merging into Universal Music Group. They also later released a self-titled album with Columbia Records. They met legendary artists most only dream of seeing live on stage. Paul McCartney is famously photographed wearing an Ozark Mountain Daredevils T-shirt a er trading shirts with Supe.
The band’s identity is deeply rooted in the Ozarks—a connection they’ve never strayed from. “Our songs come from a shared sense of place,” Dillon says, “and that place is this place. Whether it’s rock and roll or country or bluegrass or gospel or whatever it is we’re doing, there’s something about living here—being here, going to school here, having friends here—that has always led to that creative spirit that brings those songs to the surface.” It’s why Dillon remains in the Ozarks. You might see him rocking out at Juanita K Hammons Center for the Performing Arts one night and run into him at the post o ce the next morning. He is someone who follows his instincts and stays true to himself.
Reflecting on unforgettable moments with the band, Dillon holds tight to the memories but chooses to focus on the future. “I think reliving moments is dicult,” Dillon says. “What I look forward to is the next moment, hoping that I want to relive it.”
On the Horizon
A er 53 years on the road touring, The Ozark Mountain Daredevils are ready to close this chapter. “We would like to end the touring phase of our lives with a little
dignity and grace,” Dillon says. “We’re landing the plane, but we’re not leaving the terminal.” The end of 2025 will mark the conclusion of the band’s touring career. The final tour, which began in January at Kansas State University, will wrap up in November with three consecutive performances at the Juanita K. Hammons Center for the Performing Arts on the Missouri State University campus. On November 13, the Daredevils will perform with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. On November 14, they’ll host a “generations” show: the first half will feature local artists and bands performing a mix of original music and deep cuts from the Daredevils’ history. The second half will be a Daredevils set with special guest appearances. The grand finale on November 15 will feature over two hours of performances from The Ozark Mountain Daredevils.
While Dillon and the band might play one-o shows here and there and even record new music in the future, they’re looking forward to focusing their energy on other interests beyond touring. One of those is Ozark Dry Gin, which won a silver medal at the 2024 San Francisco Spirits Competition and a gold medal from the Beverage Testing Institute in 2023. They’re also excited about their collaboration with Brown Derby on the Maker’s Mark Private Selection bourbon, first released around Christmas, with plans for a re-release later this year.
As for Dillon, “The great thing about having no idea, is the excitement of having no idea,” he says. “I know that there’s gonna be creativity. I’ve been called to do this for so many years, so there’ll be something hopefully in the creative world. And I’ll just keep rocking.”
A PASSION FOR OPERA
For more than four decades, this local group has provided a setting for people to experience beautiful opera performances.
For over 45 years, Ozarks Lyric Opera has captivated audiences through opera, perfectly blending music and drama. The historic Gillioz Theatre is home to the Opera, and the Spyres family runs the nonprofit. “We were in our first production 28 years ago, and at least one Spyres has been involved in over 40 productions since then,” Sean Spyres says. “It was a springboard for helping to launch Michael and Erica’s [Spyres] career on stages all over the world.”
Ozarks Lyric Opera utilizes elements of film and animation in its productions to create a visually pleasing experience coupled with live performers in the pit and on stage. While opera houses across the country are closing, Sean says Ozarks Lyric Opera continues to thrive because of their passion for opera, their family-oriented environment—not just among the Spyres family but also among board members and performers—and the unmatched beauty of their performances. “We are committed to creating community through the OLO,” Erica Spyres says. “For us, there is no community without art and no art without community.”
CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF JOHN LENNON AND THE BEATLES
It’s one of the longest-running annual concerts in town, dating back to 1985.
Over the years, Imagine has beenheld at several locations, including the Springfield Art Museum and Central High School, and it is now hosted at the historic Gillioz Theatre. Ron Butler and Jimmy Franks founded the concert, drawing inspiration from John Lennon’s music and his lasting impact on the entire music community. “Imagine is an opportunity to see regional artists interpret these classic pieces of 20th century songbook in their own style,” says Geo Steele, executive director of the Gillioz Theatre.
The concert takes place on the first Saturday in December, with a lineup that changes each year. It typically showcases a mix of well-known and emerging local
and regional artists. Proceeds from ticket sales and sponsorships help support the operating expenses of the Gillioz Theatre, a nonprofit organization. “Imagine is incredibly important to me for the future and sustainability of the Gillioz,” Steele says.
The Gillioz Theatre is the perfect host for Imagine thanks to its unique atmosphere.
“There’s a phrase we use internally that says, ‘It’s more than who you see, it’s where you see them,’” Steele says.
“There is something about the uniqueness and exotic nature of the architecture, but there’s also an intimacy. When you’re in the theatre, it doesn’t feel like you’re with 1,000 people. It really does become community.”
THE OZARKS LYRIC OPERA
IMAGINE
HAYGOODS
BRANSON
SHOW A FAMILY AFFAIR
They perform in Branson and continue to be one of the city’s most popular shows.
The Haygoods’ story began in 1993 when their family first started performing together in Branson at Silver Dollar City. Since then, they’ve grown not only as performers but as creators. “From humble beginnings, we’ve built a show that blends music, dance and cutting-edge technology, keeping it fresh and exciting for audiences year a er year,” Timothy Haygood says. “We’ve stayed true to our family roots while evolving our production with modern e ects, choreography and music that appeals to all generations.”
At a Haygoods performance, audiences can expect a high-energy show featuring music from all genres, 20 instruments, dynamic choreography, lasers and pyrotechnics. “There’s something for everyone, from the youngest kids to grandparents, and we guarantee you’ll leave feeling inspired and entertained,” says Timothy. The Haygoods produce and design every show themselves, from the music and choreography to the light show and e ects—every detail is created in-house.
A er more than 30 years performing in Branson, the heart of each show remains the same: family, hard work and the joy of music blending together. “We hope people leave with a smile on their face, feeling happy and connected,” Timothy says. “If we can inspire someone to follow their dreams or bring families closer together, then we’ve done our job.”
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: LOCAL LEGENDS
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
The Spring eld Symphony Orchestra is one of the oldest musical institutions in town.
The Springfield Symphony Orchestra brings elegant and harmonious music to the Ozarks. Southwest Missouri’s largest regional, professional orchestra celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2024. Each season features nine subscription concerts—six classical and three pops/premium—plus three free community performances and a variety of education and outreach programs throughout the year.
In November, conductor Kyle Wiley Pickett conducted his 100th subscription concert with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. “It means a whole lot to me to have reached that milestone,” he says. “For one thing, it shows the incredible support I’ve received from all of the arms of the SSO… It also means that I’ve been able to leave my artistic mark on our community, bringing the
music that I believe in to our population.” As a conductor, Pickett aims to keep each performance innovative, fresh, interesting and entertaining for audiences. The Springfield Symphony Orchestra already does more than most orchestras in communities of Springfield’s size, and Pickett sees room for further growth.
Pickett jokes that an orchestra is a complicated, gigantic creature. It takes more than 100 people to bring the Springfield Symphony Orchestra to the stage, including musicians, a full-time sta and a board of directors filled with community leaders. “I get to be the face of the organization and the artistic leader, but this has never been a one-man show,” Pickett says. “I’m so very grateful for the people I have worked with over this past decade.”
SPRINGFIELD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: MUSIC AROUND TOWN
BLENDING JAZZ AND CLASSICAL MUSIC
She performs classical and jazz music across the Ozarks, both solo and with the Brueggemann Gouge Jazz Band.
Laura French discovered her love for performing at age 9 when her dad encouraged her to audition for a Springfield Little Theatre production. In high school and college, she focused on classical training and has only recently begun exploring jazz.
“It’s been a challenging and humbling journey, but also rewarding and so much fun,”
French says. As a kid, she adored the music of Julie Andrews, Barbara Cook and Shirley Jones, and she credits Frank Sinatra for her introduction to the world of jazz. Today, she studies legends like Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Mel Tormé and Chet Baker.
The 417 community has supported French throughout her musical journey. She regularly plays at jazz nights at Hold
Sights and Sounds
Fast Brewing (“always a party,” she says) and frequently at Galloway Station. “Our community is bursting at the seams with talent, and I love all the friendships I’ve made in the 417 music scene,” she says. “I’m especially grateful to mentors Mark Brueggemann and Je Gouge who have given me the space—and grace—to grow with their group, the Brueggemann Gouge Jazz Band. I first started performing with them a couple of years ago, and my jazz journey really catapulted from there.”
These events o er a variety of musical experiences in di erent settings around town.
Candlelight Concerts
Candlelight Concerts, held around the world, are hosted at Stone Chapel at Drury University when they visit our town. The lights stay o , with just the glow of hundreds of candles illuminating the space. Each performance has a theme or is centered around one artist.
Gigs in the Garden
This free concert takes place Sundays at 2 p.m. in May and October at the Peace Through People Pavilion in the Springfield Botanical Gardens. These shows spotlight local musicians from all kinds of genres. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and soak up the music in a beautiful garden setting.
Sofar Sounds
An international platform in over 400 cities, Sofar Sounds concerts feature three artists per show in secret, unique settings such as hair salons, art galleries and co ee shops. Highlighting regional talent, these events aim to introduce audiences to new artists.
BY
PHOTO
MICHAEL SCHARPF
LAURA FRENCH
SHAUN MUNDAY
THE MELODIES OF THE OZARKS
Shaun Munday is a favorite among crowds at events and festivals around town.
Shaun Munday’s voice intertwined with his bass guitar is the background noise of life for many in the Ozarks. His rich, warm tone wraps around each word, filling every corner of the space he occupies. While he frequently performs at Vino Cellars and events in Springfield, as well as VOO Lounge in Kansas City, his music has also taken him to stages around the world. He has performed with many artists, including Lalah Hathaway, Corinne Bailey Rae, Andra Day, Mary Wilson of The Supremes, blues legend Robert Cray, Aston Barrett and The Wailers (Bob Marley’s band), country music star Collin Raye, Devon Allman, Yonrico Scott of the Royal Southern Brotherhood and the band Kansas.
Concerts by the Riverside
Throughout the year, Finley Farms hosts peaceful riverside concerts that blend classical and secular music. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy dinner at The Ozark Mill, followed by an evening of live music— and you can cap it o with a drink at The Garrison.
MOJO (MISSOURI JAZZ ORCHESTRA)
KEEPING JAZZ ALIVE IN THE OZARKS
Bringing jazz music around town and displaying the importance of music and connection.
The Missouri Jazz Orchestra (MOJO) is enriching, educating and growing the Ozarks jazz community through performance and advocacy. Since 2009, MOJO has been bringing the jazz vibe to locations across the Ozarks every first and third Tuesday of the month. They focus mainly on the music of the big band era including Count Basie, Woody Herman, Stan Kenton, Buddy Rich and Sammy Nestico and the more modern jazz ensembles of Bob Mintzer, Bob Brookmeyer, Maria Schneider and the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. They also perform original compositions and arrangements from members of MOJO. “Music is the universal language,” says Randall Hamm, executive director of MOJO. “Our audience, seeing a large jazz ensemble with the quality and power of the Missouri Jazz Orchestra, and the orchestra members regularly performing for a live audience, have developed a deep connection.”
Hamm is passionate about showing how music shapes and enriches daily life. “Music and music education are paramount,” he says. “A er 33 years as Professor of Music and Director of Jazz Studies at Missouri State University, I have witnessed the power of music education and music in the daily lives of our citizens.”
KSMU Studio Live
KSMU Studio Live airs on our local NPR a liate, followed by a live show in town. Listeners can tune in to SoundCheck on Tuesdays at 7:45 a.m. and 4:44 p.m. for musician interviews, and then catch them live at Studio Live Social Hour at Mother’s Brewing Co.
KDRU
While KDRU isn’t a physical event you can go to, it is a student-led station at Drury University that o en holds in-depth talks with local musicians. You can listen online at kdruradio.com/listen or live locally on 98.1 FM.
SPRING INTO THE
SOUTHWEST
Direct, wallet-friendly ights from Spring eld to three major Southwestern hubs promise sunshine, natural beauty and an anythingbut-ordinary adventure.
Ditch the crowds this spring breakand head southwest for a sun-soaked Great American Road Trip. Allegiant Airlines makes it easy with direct flights from 417-land to Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Mesa, Arizona. From there, you’re just a scenic drive from stunning national parks, epic hiking trails, hidden hot springs, quirky desert towns and beaches that look like they belong in Europe.
BY TARYN SHORR-MCKEE
A view of Death Valley National Park, as seen from Zabriskie Point at dusk
Las Vegas, Nevada
MANY PEOPLE COME TO LAS Vegas for gambling, nightlife, over-the-top dining and sprawling resort pools. But this desert city o ers a different type of departure from reality and is close to several incredible outdoor adventures. Considering Sin City’s reputation—it’s literally in the name—Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is surprisingly easy to navigate. Allegiant ies between SGF and LAS year-round, o ering an additional weekly ight during peak times like spring break.
Emerald Cave: Bucketlist–Worthy Day Trip
Just an hour from the city’s glitz, aptly named Emerald Cave sits on the Arizona side of the Colorado River. You can only reach this Instagram-worthy spot by paddling, but local outfitters make it simple. Book a guided tour with Blazin’ Paddles or Evolution Expeditions, or go DIY and rent kayaks. Allow 3-4 hours for the round trip from Willow Beach, plus travel time to and from Las Vegas. Most outfitters offer shuttles from The Strip, so you can ex -
perience Emerald Cave even without a vehicle.
BONUS
You can reach Arizona Hot Springs, aka Ringbolt Hot Springs, via a rugged 6-mile hiking trail nearby off US Route 93.
Zion
National Park: Jaw-Dropping Landscapes
Less than three hours from Vegas, iconic Zion o ers epic hiking and scenery—especially in spring, when you’re just as likely to see wild owers as snow. Start with the park’s
scenic drives, Zion Canyon and Zion-Mount Carmel Highway/Highway 9 through the famous tunnel. The canyon closes to private vehicles from mid-March through November, but you can take free, rst-come rst-served shuttles. For hiking, Canyon Overlook and Emerald Pools are musts for all experience levels, and purists can check The Narrows and Angels Landing o their bucket lists.
WHERE TO STAY
The park’s bustling gateway town, Springdale, has hotels,
The Narrows in Zion National Park
vacation rentals, restaurants and shops. Tiny towns like Kanab and Orderville on the (much) quieter east side o er dreamy glamping resorts and mom-and-pop cafes.
Death Valley: (Way) O the Beaten Path
With superlatives like hottest, driest and lowest, Death Valley is anything but inviting. Yet its extreme, otherworldly landscapes draw its fair share of visitors, and Las Vegas is the best jumping-o point, just over two hours from the Furnace Creek Visitor Center.
The remote 3.4-million acre national park has extremely limited services, so have a solid itinerary (plus water, snacks and fuel) beforehand. With one full day or weekend, you can hit highlights including the lowest point in the US, Devil’s Golf Course, Mesquite Sand Dunes and Artist’s Palette.
WHERE TO STAY
With two hotels in Furnace Creek, The Ranch at Death Valley and The Inn at Death Valley, spring break reservations go fast. Consider day-tripping from Las Vegas.
Los Angeles, California
LIKE LAS VEGAS, LA SERVES as a gateway to natural playgrounds and unexpected destinations beyond the tra c and big city grind.
Allegiant ies to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Wednesday and Saturday from March through May, then moves to three days per week through summer.
Catalina Island: Island Time, Two Ways
A scenic hour-long ferry ride
from the mainland, Catalina Island feels worlds away. Avalon, the island’s “main” town, is reminiscent of the Mediterranean coast, with pastel cottages and dozens of oceanfront restaurants overlooking sailboats in Avalon Bay. Catch a show at the historic Catalina Casino and soak up French Riviera vibes at upscale Descanso Beach Club.
On the other end of the island, tiny Two Harbors o ers unplugged immersion into nature, with over a dozen hiking trails and the Two Harbors Dive and Recreation Center.
Rent SCUBA or snorkeling gear, kayaks or stand-up paddleboards, mountain bikes or e-bikes. Catalina Adventure Tours and Catalina Tours o er excursions to the island’s interior, where you may spot the resident bison herd.
INSIDER TIP
Private vehicles aren’t allowed on Catalina Island, but you can rent golf carts.
Joshua Tree & Palm Springs: Boho Meets Mid-Century Cool Neighboring but strikingly di erent desert towns Palm Springs and Joshua Tree are an easy three-hour drive east of LA.
Dreamy Joshua Tree National Park’s namesake succulents (that’s right, despite looking like huge cactus-tree hybrids, Joshua trees are technically neither), giant boulders and ultra-dark skies create a surreal landscape. Drive Park Boulevard to spot highlights like Skull Rock, then see “jumping” cactus in Cholla Cactus Garden up close—but not too close—or squeeze through slot canyons in Hall of
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at Death Valley National Park (top) and Joshua Tree National Park (bottom)
Horrors. In town, see why people swear Joshua Tree has the best thrift shops. Palm Springs delivers a can’t-quiteexplain-it combination of sleek retro charm, all-out luxury and tongue-incheek whimsy. Lounge poolside or indulge in a spa treatment at a posh mid-century modern hotel, explore the city’s famous architecture and get a new perspective of the desert by riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to 8,516 feet elevation.
WHERE
TO STAY
Palm Springs has a boutique hotel for every preference and budget, but my favorite is Parker, home to the ironically named Palm Springs Yacht Club Spa. Into camping? Joshua Tree National Park has some of the best sites in the country.
Solvang: A Taste of Europe Without the Passport
With bakeries brimming with aebleskiver (pancake balls) and several windmills, storybook-perfect “Little Denmark” delivers authentic Danish charm three hours north of LA. Stroll the ower-lined streets or visit the Elverhoj Museum of History & Art to learn about Solvang’s heritage. Two major bonuses: oenophiles can explore nearby Santa Ynez Valley vineyards, and the drive from LAX takes you on a stretch of the legendary Paci c Coast Highway.
WHERE TO STAY
The Landsby seamlessly marries Scandinavian hygge and the warmth of California wine country, while putting you steps away from everything in town.
Mesa, Arizona
PART OF THE ENORMOUS GREATER PHOENIX area, or Valley of the Sun, Mesa lies 30 miles east of Phoenix proper. The small Mesa Gateway Airport serves just Allegiant and Sun Country Airlines, o ering a breath-of-fresh-air alternative to busy Sky Harbor.
Allegiant runs at least two weekly ights year-round, but increases to near-daily service—except Wednesday— from March through mid-August.
Tucson: Foodie Mecca
Head south to Arizona’s oldest city, one of two UNESCO Cities of Gastronomy in the US (the other one is San Antonio, Texas). The Old Pueblo’s food scene has deep roots in the Sonoran Desert, with a complexity that shines in simple signature dishes like carne seca, sun-dried marinated beef, and Sonoran hot dogs, bacon-wrapped beef dogs topped with tomatoes, onions, beans and chilies. While the city has countless iterations of both, try carne seca at El Charro Café, the country’s oldest family-run Mexican restaurant, and grab a Sonoran dog at the original El Guero Canelo in South Tucson. Walk o the calories in Saguaro National Park, one of the only places on Earth where saguaro cacti grow.
WHERE TO STAY
Fully embrace the Wild West with a stay at the White Stallion dude ranch (bonus: it’s right next to Saguaro National Park’s West unit). Or, stay at the historic Arizona Inn in bustling Midtown.
Superstition Mountains: Legendary Hiking
Twenty minutes from the airport, the rugged Superstitions are a dream for hikers, photographers and history bu s alike. Mystery and lore shroud the range, with tales of gold mining, the underworld
and, yes, ancient superstitions. Whatever “it” is, the entire area has an almost palpable energy. The 2.3-mile Treasure Loop Trail in Lost Dutchman State Park, known for wild owers and in-yourface views, is an approachable starting point. Go at sunset! On the backside of the mountain, nd two of my favorite trails near one another. The Wave Cave, a unique rock formation, and Hieroglyphic Trail, with ancient petroglyphs and seasonal rock pools, are spectacular easy-to-moderate three-mile hikes. Fun fact: My husband proposed on the Hieroglyphic Trail!
Verde Valley: A Bit of Everything
Can’t decide between jaw-dropping scenery, history, wine, outdoor recreation or a bit of pampering? The Verde Valley has it all. About 2.5 hours north of Mesa, this region includes Sedona’s famous red rocks and restorative energy, Jerome’s ghostly charms, the little-known wine country of Cottonwood and Clarkdale’s railroad history. In Jerome, wander through abandoned mineshafts and decide for yourself if the town is actually haunted. Board the Verde Canyon Railroad for a scenic ride through the valley’s dramatic canyons. Float the meandering Verde River with Clarkdale Kayak Company, and sample the surprising variety of wines this climate grows exceptionally well. My favorite? Alcantara Vineyards, known for its phenomenal cab franc and outdoor adventures like kayaking, biking and hiking.
WHERE TO STAY
Book a historic vacation home in Clarkdale or Cottonwood—far more a ordable and less crowded than Sedona but just 20-30 minutes away.
“Mystery and lore shroud the range, with tales of gold mining, the underworld and yes, ancient superstitions. Whatever ‘it’ is, the entire area has an almost palpable energy.”
Three must-visit Arizona stops are Superstition Mountains in Lost Dutchman State Park (top) Saguaro National Park (above) and Red Rock State Park in Sedona (right).
TURN THE PAGE TO FIND PIPING HOT DINING NEWS AND SOME EXTRADELICIOUS OZARKS EATS.
Taste is
ARE YOU READY TO DIG INTO THE YUMMIEST STUFF AROUND? LET’S EAT!
IN!
Tasty Thai Switch-Up
Thai Garden has moved into the restaurant space formerly occupied by Tong’s Thai Cuisine, bringing with it a menu lled with brand new avor-packed dishes.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS
Try the spicy glass noodle salad for a refreshing bite.
Taste is
ITRIED THAI FOOD FOR the rst time (that I can remember) at a little place in Ballwin, Missouri, called Manee Thai. It was near my parents’ house and quickly became their neighborhood go-to for Thai avors. My favorite dish there was nam tok beef, a plate of wildly avorful grilled beef bursting with the taste of chilis, lime and cilantro and served with a refreshing wedge of cabbage.
Since then, I’ve tried to nd a duplicate of that nam tok beef at other Thai restaurants. Most spots I tried didn’t serve it, and the ones that did couldn’t quite spark the nostalgic avor memory I was looking for.
My husband, Eli, is a huge nam tok beef fan too, so when we saw it on the menu at Thai Garden, we knew we had to try it.
Thai Garden is owned by Jenny Khokunthod, and its interior might look familiar to longtime Thai food fans. Until last fall, it was home to another beloved favorite, Tong’s Thai Cuisine—which had closed when its owner, Tong Trithara, moved to Thailand. And although the type of cuisine in that restaurant space remains the same, the menu is quite di erent. Khokunthod has incorporated a variety of dishes that were new and exciting to us— and our beloved favorite nam tok beef too.
The dish had all the avors Eli and I were looking for, from the pop of the chilis to the bright zip of the lime. But it wasn’t the only thing we tried. We also ordered the larb appetizer (a dish with similar a-
Try panang curry with tofu (above) or sticky mango rice (right).
vors to nam tok beef, but featuring ground chicken), the panang curry, Thai iced tea and our favorite dessert: mango sticky rice.
You can choose which protein to add to your curry, and we opted for tofu. Packed with plenty of veggies and big, avorful pieces of fresh Thai basil, the panang was a comforting dish that warmed us from the inside out and felt so nourishing. We ordered it at a medium heat level and felt like it wasn’t quite spicy enough for us. We’ll probably ask for it spicier next time.
Our kids love mango but had never tried mango sticky rice before, so we were excited to introduce them to this practically perfect and deceptively simple dessert. Fat slices of delightfully ripe mango (some of the best I’ve had in a long time, actually) are served over a bed of warm sticky rice that has been mixed with a sweet coconut cream sauce. The result is something that’s
not too sweet and honestly a bit addictive. The kids loved it as much as Eli and I did, and we all ended the meal wishing for just one more bite.
Although we didn’t try it, we were intrigued by an item on the dessert menu that we’ve never had before: a traditional Thai custard. It sounds so creamy and delicious, and it might just be our meal ender on our next visit. That is, if we can resist ordering our forever favorite sweet treat, mango sticky rice.
FLAVOR BOMB
Khachapuri
This Georgian cheese bread from Charcoal Grill House is exactly the kind of comfort food we’re craving this winter.
BY TESSA COOPER
CHEESE AND BREAD IS such a universally loved pairing. We always jump at the chance to try this combination in a new-tous international dish. We visited the recently opened Charcoal Grill House, which serves dishes from Armenia and nearby areas, and knew we had to order the Khachapuri. Let’s just say there are a few solid reasons that it stakes the claim as the national dish of the country of Georgia.
The Bread
The oh-so- u y leavened bread holds this dish together in a stunning boat shape. The application of an egg wash makes the exposed edges glisten.
The Cheese
The owners of Charcoal Grill House are pretty secretive about what makes the cheesy lling so delicious, but they tell us it’s a combination of two types of cheeses. It tastes a bit like mozzarella and pours into the edges of the bread to make every bite a pure delight.
The Protein
It comes topped with a sunny-side-up egg plus your choice of meat. We highly recommend the lamb to bring a bit of a gamey avor to the mix.
The Khachapuri makes a great shareable dish, as do a majority of the other o erings. Pair it with a tomato salad, a few shish kebabs and some baklava for dessert.
Try the Khachapuri, served on leavened bread with an egg and cheese.
TheTouchFinishing
BY TESSA COOPER
WHEN IT COMES TO PREPARING A greatdish at home, the secret is often in the sauce. Weeknights rarely allow for recipes that call for madefrom-scratch sauces, but pre-made ones often contain additives and llers. That’s why Heather Mincer, founder of Yes, Honey, decided to create her own line of sauces that she calls “drizzlers.” There are seven avors you can stock up on, some sweet, some savory. We tried a little sampling of all seven, and the Raspberry Jalapeño avor really stood out to us. This one features freeze-dried raspberries and jalapeños mixed into honey cultivated from Mincer’s hives. There are so many ways you can use this avor, but she recommends putting it on meat like chicken or sh or on top of crackers and cream cheese. Yes, Honey also carries a line of canned zzy soda alternatives sweetened with honey in avors like Strawberry, Sweet Apple, and Watermelon. You can nd both product lines at each HyVee location, the Eastgate Harter House and the Farmers Market of the Ozarks.
Homemade With Love
Thanks to the ever-expanding Missouri Cottage Law, homebased bakeries have been popping up everywhere in 417-land.
Sweet Kravings instagram.com/yoursweetkravings Kayleigh Gilbert from Sweet Kravings specializes in vintage-inspired cakes. Her knack for piping is unmatched, and the cake tastes as wonderful as it looks. She also o ers chocolate-dipped treats like strawberries, pretzels and tru es. How to Order: Direct message on Instagram or Facebook.
Form Bakery instagram.com/formbakery
Baking without dairy is a true art form, which is why Form Bakery is fittingly named. Alex Kirkpatrick whips up vegan cakes, cookies, cinnamon rolls and bagels sans milk, butter or eggs.
How to Order: Pre-order a treat from the weekly drop menu or via direct message on social media.
TRENDING NOW | BY TESSA COOPER
Good Things
One list. Zero themes. Just seven dishes that we have recently tried and can’t stop recommending.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
1
One sta er nearly passed away (her words) from delight when she tried the Caitlin Bisque from Retro Metro (southwest Spring eld). This lobster bisque features a creamy, complex soup peppered with big chunks of lobster meat.
2
A new spot recently opened that’s been getting a bit of buzz. Ritorno Café (Rogersville) o ers a variety of espresso drinks and Latin-inspired eats, but the Nutella croissant is a must-try with its decadent, creamy lling.
3
The Smokey Chili from Eurasia Coffee Co. (Commercial Street, Springeld) is a fresh take on a classic comfort food. It features beef, sweet potatoes, black beans and the yummiest blend of spices. There’s even just a little bit of Askinosie chocolate in there.
4
If you have kiddos on spring break this month, consider taking a little day trip to visit Creator Delights (Bolivar). This sweet candy store and soda shop also o ers co ee drinks. Try a Strawberry Italian Cream Soda.
5 There’s just something about the pineapple chicken at Corner 21 Chinese Cuisine (two Spring eld locations) that we nd irresistible. The sauce has more nuanced notes than typical sweet-and-sour chicken dishes, and the meat is fried to absolute perfection.
6 For those Branson Landing shopping days, head to White River Fish House (Branson) and try the smoked sh dip appetizer. It’s shareable and addictive.
7 Sometimes the simplest things are the most delightful. Take for example the toast and jam from The European (downtown Spring eld). Thick slices of toasted homemade sourdough bread are served with whipped butter and the best homemade raspberry jam we’ve ever tried.
The Three Snack-eteers
Three Ozarkers with backgrounds in food marketing and local retail have come together to create super-easy at-home pickle mixes.
BY TESSA COOPER
WHAT DO YOU GET when you put the minds of a creative director, recipe developer, and experienced entrepreneur together? Apparently, the answer is Father Fritz Snickle Gourmet Pickle Mix. Dan Stewart, Travis Jenkins and Michael Doss are the visionaries behind Snickle Snack Co. This locally founded company currently produces three types of DIY pickle mixes, and they even have plans for more types of snack o erings currently in the works.
Stewart and Jenkins collaborate on food projects at their day jobs at Bon Aperture
Productions, where Stewart oversees the creative process of culinary content creation as the creative director, and Jenkins is a content creative and lead food stylist who also assists with recipe development. Doss owns American Heritage Brands with his wife, Aisha. The couple wholesales their signature products like re starters, candles, perfume, clothing, blankets and more in about 2,500 stores globally.
A mutual friend initially introduced Doss to Stewart, and the two entrepreneurs instantly hit it o and added each other on social media. Doss came across an old branding prototype that Stewart made
for the at-the-time- ctitous Fritz Snickle Gourmet Pickles. It wasn’t long after that the idea became a reality, thanks to the trio’s unique skill sets and follow-through.
Although the business is still less than a year old, the pickle mixes are available in ten stores all across America. You can order them online at snicklesnacks.com or purchase them locally at American Heritage Brands, 5 Pound Apparel and Spring eld Mercantile Co.
Father Fritz Snickle Gourmet Pickle Mix comes in three avors. While cucumbers are a go-to for any of the mixes, the Snickle Snack Co. crew says you can try them out on any-
thing from okra to strawberries. Jenkins, who developed the recipes, broke down the avor pro les in each for us.
Divine Dill
This classic avor features all the avors you’d expect out of a dill pickle, including garlic and dill, but with a little twist. Cinnamon, believe it or not, is the secret ingredient that gives the mix its true depth.
Purgatory
This one gives your pickles just the right amount of spice with a mix of chili peppers, peppercorns and bay leaf.
“The goal with this one was to have some heat that builds but doesn’t melt your face o ,” Jenkins says.
Sweet Sereni-Tea
Jenkins calls this one the wild card. It’s a sweet tea pickling kit with demerara sugar, lemon citrus and black tea. It’s well-rounded with sweet and bitter notes.
ORIGIN STORY
Father Fritz Snickle Gourmet Pickle Mix comes in three distinct avor pro les.
A Real Catch
BY TESSA COOPER
WHEN GLORIA
Hairston opened her first location of Ma -
ma G’s Kitchen ( Springfield ), she knew fried catfish had to be on the menu. Growing up here in the Ozarks, she has the most fond memories of fishing with her family and cleaning their catches on the dock. Although she’s put her own spin on the catfish, she used her family’s recipes as a foundation for this
offering. Hairston doesn’t hold back on the seasonings with this dish, and she even makes her own signature blends for it. She adds seasonings not only to the corn meal breading but also to the catfish itself. And, of course, no visit to either the newly opened downtown location or the original Sunshine hub is complete without ordering some sides. Hairston recommends pairing the fried catfish with the spaghetti (a Southern specialty, she says) and the collard greens.
The fried cat sh from Mama G’s Kitchen is a dish with a sweet backstory and a savory mix of seasonings.
FRIED & TRUE
Head to Mama G’s Kitchen for fried catfish with a signature blend of seasonings.
Dining Guide
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
203 E. Mount Vernon St., Nixa, 14millmarket.com Food hall. There are 10 restaurant concepts, 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, baked goods and light lunch at Lindsay’s Kitchen & Bistro, 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. $–$$ L D d
ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8831234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs.com American fare. This is a great spot for a full night of fun plus food all in one building with hearty fare like burgers, pizzas, pasta and more. If you have any pint-size bowlers, get the hot pretzel. $ L D
AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS
2144 E. Republic, Ste. E120, Springfield, 417881-9736; aviarycafe.com Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes—which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there’s so much more besides crepes. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French flair.
$–$$ B L D d
BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL
3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3685919; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-7325077; 701 N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-7253777; 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. For an appetizer, dig into a plate of fried green beans or spicy cheese curds. $ L D d
BIG WHISKEY’S
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. $$ BL D d
BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES
CAFE CUSCO
234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688088, cafecusco.com
Peruvian. This menu is packed with fun and unexpected dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the Andes Mountains. A few standouts: the black bean quinoa burger with avocado spread, the Lomo Saltado, and a host of delicious entrees. $$ L D d
CANYON GRILL RESTAURANT
BIG EASY
GRILL
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
BIGSHOTS GOLF
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. $$ BL D d
Four Springfield locations; blaaacksheep.com Burgers. This swanky but comfortable burger joint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield Village and on East Sunshine Street. Chow down on the Good Yogi; two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and baaad sauce— house-made Thousand Island dressing. For the adults, we recommend trying the Purple Haze shake with blackberry moonshine in it. $ L D
BLUE HERON FARM & BAKERY
206 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-701-1130 Farm-to-table. All of the freshly baked pastries and breads are amazing here. They do some creative things with pastry, from tender galettes filled with loads of luscious lemon curd to flaky pot pies filled with savory meats and veggies. Many of the ingredients are from Blue Heron Farm and other local and regional producers. We love the sausage roll served with pickles and whole-grain mustard, and the almond croissant is oh-so-dreamy. Be sure to grab a cup of joe while you’re there; the co ee and espresso menu is excellent. $ BL
at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org
American. Located on the grounds of Dogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon Grill Restaurant has a menu inspired by its surroundings. Try the bison burger made with bacon and caramelized onion topped with fire-roasted poblano peppers and pepper-jack cheese. $–$$ L D d
CELLAR 417
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 cacio e pepe. $$–$$$ L D d
CELLAR+PLATE
2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-3681739, cellarandplate.wine Wine bar. At Cellar+Plate you can get exceptional wine and tasty food, like the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. Don’t miss the Cellar Board with meats, cheeses and fruits. $$ D d
CHATEAU GRILLE
415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-243-1777, chateauonthelake.com
Contemporary American. Chateau Grille o ers gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake. And you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. The restaurant focuses on upscale, seasonal cuisine, flying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award-winning menu. $$$ BL D d
CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE
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 sandwich. $ BL D d
CIVIL KITCHEN & TAP
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. $ BL D d
CLUB 609
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 wide variety of entree salads. $$ L D
If you have a foodie story idea, news about a local restaurant, or a correction to one of our Dining Guide listings, email our editorial team at yum@417mag.com.
DERBY DELI
2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066
Bistro fare. Located inside Brown Derby International Wine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus board and more. We love the Martin’s salad, topped with oven-roasted chicken, or the Local Goat salad topped with a scoop of chicken salad. Don’t miss the tasty espresso drinks and sweet treats available at the co ee counter. $ L D
DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT
at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-335-2777, bigcedar.com
American. Here you can enjoy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. For an appetizer, the smoked trout is fantastic, and so is the cornbread topped with cracked pepper maple butter and smoked bacon. The entrees change with the season and are the perfect blend of rustic and upscale. Brunch on Sundays. $$–$$$ BL D d
DOBYNS DINING ROOM
1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu
American. College of the Ozarks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farm-to-table quality. For something hearty, try the pork belly shrimp and grits. The Keeter Center also has a creamery that o ers up some delightful homemade ice creams and sorbets. The extensive brunch bu et on Sundays is excellent. $$ BL D d
American. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour House is the brainchild of the award-winning barbecue slingers 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. $–$$ L D
FARMERS GASTROPUB
2620 S. Glenstone Avenue, Springfield, 417-864-6994, farmersgastropub.com
Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and changes regularly. The entrees are well priced and satisfying, like the Scotch eggs and the chicken chop salad (arugula, kale, cabbage, blue cheese, boiled egg, pumpkin seeds, buttermilk dressing). There’s also a great selection of beer, and the burgers and fish and chips are always delicious. On a nice day, sit outside on the patio. $$ BL D d
FIRE & ICE
2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8665253, oasisfireandice.com
Finest Experience the
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 flat iron steak and more. $$ L D d
THE GARRISON at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com
Shareable fine dining. Located beneath the Ozark Mill at Finley Farms, The Garrison features a dark and moody speakeasy vibe, a fine dining menu and a beautiful riverside patio. Try the mini pot roast, the forest panzanella salad or the delightful rosemary pound cake. Be sure to order one of the delicious cocktails—especially the refreshing Mill Pond that tastes great with everything. $$$ D d
THE GROTTO
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. The kids menu cheeseburger is always a hit too. $ L D d
HARVEST RESTAURANT
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 expertly prepared. $$$ D d
American and more. It’s all about variety when it comes to the freshly prepared food at Hy-Vee, so it’s a great place to find something for every member of your family—even the picky ones! You have a hibachi grill, a pizzeria, hearty comfort food, sushi, Chinese dishes and Wahlburgers burgers. $–$$ B L D
LA HABANA VIEJA
220 E. Commercial Street, Springfield, 417-771-5723, la-habana-vieja.com
Cuban. Find great mojitos and a menu full of Cuban fare at this Commercial Street eatery. Try the ropa vieja, Cuba’s national dish of beef brisket, rice and veggies. You can also get an appetizer of yucca fries, or ceviche that’s served with plantain chips.
$$–$$$ L D
METROPOLITAN
GRILL
2931 E. Battlefield Road, 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. The cocktails are delicious, the wine menu is wonderful and the service is top-notch. $$$ D d
MUNDOS LATIN KITCHEN & BAR
5493 N. 17th St., Ozark, 417-485-2160, mundoslatinkitchen.com
Latin. The menu here features dishes from many Latin cuisines, including
Mofongo (mashed plantains with chicarron), lomo saltado, tostones, tacos and tons more. $$ 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. $$ BL D
NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY
1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417-720-4162; neighborsmill.com
Deli and bakery. This full time bakery o ers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches, soups and salads. Don’t miss the honey pecan chicken salad, which comes on Bronze honey wheat bread, or the Reuben, which comes on pumpernickel rye bread. They have two soups of the day, one of which is vegetarian. For a lighter option, order one of the yogurt parfaits. $ BL D
THE ORDER
at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-832-1515, theordersgf.com
New American. Step inside the Vandivort Hotel and turn le for a downtown-Springfield dining experience not to be missed. The atmosphere is trendy but relaxed while the food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from-scratch kitchen. Try Executive Chef Calvin Davis’s spin on cashew chicken or the market fish specials that change daily. $$–$$$ D
OSAGE RESTAURANT
at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-2256343, topo herock.com American fine dining. Take in beautiful views from the dining room at Osage Restaurant, located at Top of the Rock, and enjoy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The fried chicken is stellar, and the cocktails menu always o ers created and delicious options. Downstairs is the End of the Trail wine cellar with a wine tasting bar and whiskey room. Reservations are recommended. Collared shirts are recommended a er 5 p.m. $$$ 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
PALM & PADDLE GRILLE
2515 S. Campbell Ave., Ste. 400, Springfield, 417605-7500, 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 one filling option that’s served in tiki tacos. Bonus: If you can’t decide what you want, you can go for an Island Combination and order two. $$–$$$ L D d
PIER 28 PIZZA & GRILL
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. $$ L D
QUEEN CITY SOUL KITCHEN
1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-3798614, facebook.com/ QueenCitySoulKitchen Soul food. The menu changes from week to week here, but the o erings are always delicious. Find comforting fare like meatloaf, fried chicken wings, smothered pork chops and more. Make sure you leave room for peach cobbler or bread pudding. $–$$ L D
REBAR KITCHEN & TAP ROOM
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. $$ BL D
RED ONION CAFÉ
204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe.com
American and Italian The Tuxedo Chicken is a customer favorite. Diners also love the bacon-wrapped shrimp, the blackened tuna sandwich or Dave’s fried chicken salad. Try the BLT&A. There’s even a section of the menu with keto-friendly options that are low-carb and gluten-free. $$ L D
RETRO METRO
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. $$$ D
SPLIT SOCIAL KITCHEN
3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7557155, splitspringfield.com American. Come for creative and beautifully prepared shareables and hearty entrees, all served a teeny restaurant space that packs a lot of good vibes. We love the amazing macaroni and cheese (get fried chicken with it as your optional protein). The menu changes with the seasons. $$ L D
ST. MICHAEL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE
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. $–$$ L D
TEA BAR & BITES
621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417866-7500, teabarandbites.com. Bistro fare. Everything we’ve tasted at Tea Bar & Bites has been fantastic. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, flaky crust. We love any of the menu items that have a Mediterranean flair. $ B L D d
VAN GOGH’S EETERIE
334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie.com
Indo-Dutch. Dutch pancakes, chicken witlof and other Indo-Dutch and Dutch-inspired cuisine populate the menu at this Commercial Street hotspot from Joe Gidman of Cafe Cusco. We love the Farm Near Auvers pancake topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. $$ B L D
VOLLEYBALL BEACH OZARK
1198 State Highway NN, Ozark, 816-838-1664, volleyballbeachozark.com
American. In addition to sand volleyball, this spot o ers 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. $–$$ D
BARBECUE
BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ
2002 South Campbell Avenue, Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com
Diners love the ribs and the burnt ends at this classic barbecue eatery. We can’t get enough of the killer smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. $ L D d
CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE
3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7201113, citybutchersgf.com
Come early because this Texas-style barbecue spot is known to sell out. Killer brisket, pulled pork and other favorites are sold first-come, first-served with a few simple but delicious side dish options. If you’re in a sandwich mood, try the City Smokestack or the smoked chocolate chip cookies. $–$$ L D d
Discover the Beef Ramen Bowl and other e i ts at eon s sian iner, prin e s c inar em En o a t entic flavors, friendly service and a legacy of delicious Asian cuisine.
0 . ep lic d., Springfield 417-887-7500 | leongsasiandiner.com Hours: Sun: 11:00am–5:00pm Mon–Fri: 11am–8:30pm Sat: 11:00am–9:30pm
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
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. $–$$ L D
GETTIN’ BASTED
2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com
Come here for award-winning barbecue in all your favorite varieties: brisket, ribs, pulled pork and more. The wagyu burgers are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong. The house salad topped with chicharrones is a hit too. $–$$ L D
BREAKFAST
BILLY GAIL’S CAFE
5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com
Billy Gail’s in Branson has been a beloved breakfast hotspot for ages, and it’s still going strong. The Ozark location serves dinner on the weekends. $ BL D
EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST PUB
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. Don’t miss the tacos, burritos, traditional breakfast fare, sandwiches and more. $ BL d
FIRST WATCH
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 like the superfood bowl with chia pudding. $ BL
GAILEY’S BREAKFAST CAFÉ
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. This spot is known for it’s breakfast fare, but you should give it a try for lunch too. The cocktails specials are also always a hit. $ BL
ON THE HORIZON
A Sammie Slinger is on the Move
The Sub Marina, a lakeside sandwich shop based in Shell Knob that o ers to-go orders for pickup by boat, is getting ready to open a second location. This one will be in Republic, with an opening date coming very soon— they’ve said it’ll happen sometime in Spring 2025. We’ve heard that sandwich-loving lake-goers are pretty excited that the spot will soon be slinging sammies in Republic, and we can’t wait to try it. Peeping the menu right before lunch break, the Shell Knobber (a bu alo chicken sandwich) is looking extra delish right-about now.—Katie Pollock Estes
JW’S KITCHEN
2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997
From the owners of Farmers Gastropub, Andy and Misty Hampshire, this spot features favorites and surprises. You can get biscuits with chocolate gravy (a southern American favorite) or a full English breakfast (black sausage included) and everything in between. $$ BL
THE EUROPEAN
105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-986-4646, theeuropean417.com
The pastries are picture-perfect and taste as good as they look. The cardamom buns are luxurious. And the dishes are inventive and superbly executed. We love the mousse cakes and the shakshuka. $ BL d
SLEEPY OPOSSUM CAFE
1423 E. Cherry St., Springfield, Ste. 101, 913730-6224, 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. $ BLD
CHINESE
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. We just keep hearing rave reviews about Bao Bao Chinese Bistro. 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 saltand-pepper pork, a su-
per-tender duck entree, the veggie-filled wonton soup, or the jiaozi dumplings. Or bring your appetite and tuck into a hot pot filled with seafood, tofu and more. $ L D
CORNER 21
1730 E. Republic Road, Ste. A, Springfield, 417771-5666, 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, crispy fried pumpkin, spicy Szechuan fish and so much more. Our favorite dish is the pork buns. $ 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 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 egg rolls are a classic, made from scratch with a peanut butter flair. The General Tso’s chicken has a rich and spicy sauce and lots of veggies. Another favorite is the Hunan beef. They change up their menu a couple times a year. $–$$ L D
TRIPLE EIGHTS
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
COFFEE SHOP FARE
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 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! Battlefield Road location is drive-thru only. $ BLD
BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR
217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8659911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-868-4157; bigmommasco ee.com
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 a favorite sandwiche from Big Momma’s (with apples, provolone and creamy spread). $ BL D d
THE
BLACK LAB COFFEE CO.
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 combination of caramel and brown sugar. Sips aren’t the only draw here, either. The shop serves full lunch and breakfast menus too. $ 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. For breakfast, the bacon and cheddar burritos are a favorite thanks to thick-cut bacon. $ BL D
CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE
1900 W. Sunset St., Springfield, 417-8817625, 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. $ d
CUFFLINK COFFEE
215 S. Grant Ave., Springfield
This ca einated o shoot of Mother’s Brewing Co., serves a variety of co ee, espresso and tea drinks. You can also find some sweet treats there as well, like blueberry mu ns and croissants. $ d
Brew Co’s Upgrades Just Keep Coming
The second of Spring eld Brewing Company’s taproom outposts opened early this year in Willard. Mile 6 Taproom is located near (you guessed it!) mile 6 of the Frisco Highline Trail. It features a 5,420-foot taproom, re pits, a beer garden, indoor games, visiting food trucks and more. The menu features local craft beer, along with cocktails made with spirits from Brew Co.’s sister company, Ty Iechyd Da Distillery. Spring eld Brewing Company’s rst expansion, One 2 Five Taproom, opened last year in Rogersville. But even the company’s OG brew pub has been upgrading. The spot recently closed for a few days for some renovations. When they reopened, we learned they had made room for a lovely wood- red pizza oven—a black-and-red mosaic beauty with a place of honor right by the big front windows! And with that oven will come a brand-new pizza menu, soon to be released. Sounds the perfect kind of thing to eat with a cold local brew, if you ask us.
—Katie Pollock Estes
DANCING MULE
COFFEE COMPANY
1945 S. 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
ECHELON COFFEE
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 when we’re feeling indulgent. Don’t miss the delish breakfast and lunch fare too. The smoothie bowl is stellar. $ BL D d
MUDHOUSE COFFEE
323 South Avenue, Suite B, 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 variety of looseleaf teas. The cheesecake is so good. $ BL D
THE PRESS COFFEE & JUICE BAR
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. A big draw here is the Mexican-Korean fusion menu, featuring things like kimchi fried rice and street tacos. The gogi quesadilla with kimchi is our fave. $ 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 tasty naan’wich and the smoky chili. We love ordering the miso caramel latte too. $ BL D d
KINGDOM COFFEE
211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-3501234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., 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. 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
URBAN GROUNDS
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. $ BL
The Workshop is a co ee shop and gathering space. The menu includes classic co ee and tea o erings plus super-sized supedup toasts. We love The Workshop Shake, a shaken iced latte with vanilla bean syrup, cinnamon and honey. $ BL d
DELIS
J. PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI
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. $ L D
MYTHICAL ‘WICH
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
THE SUB SHOP
1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-8873804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8077
The Fighter Pilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, banana peppers, lettuce and sub sauce. Hit an ATM on the way there; The Sub Shop is cash only. $ L d
DESSERTS
ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD
Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com Frozen treats. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings (our sta ers love the key lime pie in the summer, and the pumpkin pie in the fall). Try the Ozarks Turtle sundae, a classic concoction. $ d
HURTS DONUT
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. $
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 like sweet red bean, Nutella, vanilla custard and more. $
PRAIRIE PIE
307 S. Je erson 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. Stop by the storefront for other o erings as well, such as savory pot pies. $–$$
SOCIETEA
1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7204094, facebook.com/ societea.
Boba tea. The matcha milk tea and the matcha roll cake are both musttry o erings. We love the customizable sweetness levels and homemade toppings. Our favorite is the fresh strawberry milk tea with crystal boba. $
Donuts. Lots of luscious doughnuts are made fresh daily here. We love the glazed blueberry and the oh-so-fresh chocolate cake donuts. $ d
DINERS
BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND
1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291
Burgers. Billy Bob’s is a greasy-spoon institution. There are 24 flavors of fried pies here, cheeseburgers, foot-long 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 chili and other yummy diner options. $ BL D
DRUFF’S
331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-7191719, yumdru s.com
Grilled cheese. Dru ’s o ers 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. Dru ’s also o ers a robust brunch and breakfast menu. $ L D
HAMBURG
Sunshine St., Springfield
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. $ BL D
ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE
311 South Je erson Avenue, Springfield, 417-351-4400, 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. $–$$ L D d
ITALIAN
AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING
3240 South Fremont Avenue, Springfield, 417-567-3463, avanzareitaliandining.com
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 and the mushroom aloo matar $$ L D
NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR
3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050
Find all your favorite classic Indian dishes here along with some others you might not have seen around town before. For example, the gol gappay is a crispy little hollow fried ball filled with chickpeas, potato, onion and spices. $$ L D
TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT
1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573
The naan is the best around. We are obsessed with the lamb rogan josh and the chicken jalfrezi, and the bhindi masala (a vegetarian okra dish) is a favorite too. The paneer wrap is a filling and delightful lunch option. $$ L D d
Pasta is always a hit at Avanzare, a longtime Springfield favorite. Veal dishes are top-notch at this Italian eatery, but you’ll have to pick the right night, as they’re only served once or twice a week. Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak and the pasta with seafood in a spicy tomato-based sauce. Indulge in the chocolate torte for dessert. $$$ L D d
BAMBINO’S CAFÉ
2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-4442; bambinoscafe.com
This little Italian eatery serves hearty helpings of tasty Italian fare that won’t break the bank, available at two 417-land locations. 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-die-for sauce. The side salads here are so fresh, with excellent homemade dressings (especially the ranch). The Delmar location is temporarily closed for remodeling. $ L D d
INDIAN
INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL
BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
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. This Springfield spot is a walkable date-night stop if you’re seeing a show downtown. $$$ D
GILARDI’S
820 East Walnut Street, Springfield, 417-862-6400, gilardisonwalnut.com
Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little Italian restaurant that makes a wonderful date-night spot. Don’t miss the amazing meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce that are served over a bed of creamy goat cheese polenta. And be sure to dine in the outdoor seating area when the weather allows. Open Mon.–Sat., 5–10 p.m. $$$ D d
NICOLA’S
RISTORANTE
3631 East Sunshine Street, Springfield, 417-886-3700, nicolasspringfield.com This restaurant serves a delicious sea bass. Try the lumache: fresh snails 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. The Nicola’s pizza here is also super tasty, and the dessert menu is impressive. Enjoy the spacious outdoor patio when the weather permits, or belly up to the bar for happy hour with friends. $$–$$$ D d
NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ
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 particularly love the delectable chocolate torte and the rich and delicious tiramisu. Plus, the homemade cheesecakes are always top-notch. $$ L D
PICCOLO
107 West Aldersgate Drive, Suites 1 and 2, Nixa, 417-374-7291, eatpiccolo.com
When you’re craving indulgent Italian fare, Piccolo delivers with a range of piled-high pastas, pizzas, steak and chicken entrees. Start things o with the Italian Nachos (fried wonton chips, homemade Alfredo sauce and toppings), or the Balboa balls, juicy meatballs stu ed with mozzarella and finished with goat cheese and marinara. Leave room for dessert because you won’t want to miss the cannolis. $–$$ L D d
SALVATORES FRESH RISTORANTE ITALIANO
1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com
The menu here is packed with handmade pastas. If 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. $–$$ L D d
JAPANESE
ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA
1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd
This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai o ers excellent nigiri and sashimi, as well as small plates and tapas. You have to try the delicious tuna cigars or the hot rock dish that uses wagyu beef. For dessert, the matcha crème brûlée is our favorite. Be sure to order from the excellent sake menu. Order a sushi roll alongside some sake. $$–$$$ L D d
CRAFT SUSHI
251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417319-5887, facebook.com/ cra sushi
At Cra Sushi, you’re in control of your meal as you customize your own sushi and poke bowls. And the best part: It won’t break the bank. Try a salad bowl topped with marinated tofu, asparagus, mushrooms, jalapenos, edamame and spicy wasabi sauce. It’s our favorite! Anything with the raw salmon or the spicy pork is always a hit as well, and there are a ton of topping options. $$ L D
HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR
3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com
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 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. $$ L D
KAI
306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8320077, kaia erdark.com
This lounge-like restaurant in downtown Springfield has fantastic sushi. It has the same owners as Haruno, which is famous for their incredible rolls—so you know it’ll be delicious! Don’t miss the restaurant’s black cod or sea bass entrees with delicious wasabi risotto. They are just as impressive as the sushi rolls! There are some great cocktail and appetizer options here as well. $$–$$$ L D
KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL 640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225
With Karai, owner Young Jun, of Haruno, Kai and Koriya, takes ramen seriously, and it shows in her food. The Karai Ramen with a flavorful and spicy house-made broth is incredible, and we like to get it with pork and a seasoned so -boiled egg added. For something lighter, the naked ramen with sesame noodles, spinach, wood ear mushrooms, bean sprouts, seaweed and sprinkled with lime is a highlight. Don’t miss the tasty hand rolls or the steamed buns filled with shredded pork, spring onions and teriyaki sauce. The Tonkatsu is a house special, a pork cutlet with Japanese mustard barbecue sauce, cabbage and miso soup. $ L D
NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE
2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8817171, nakato.com
Performance-style hibachi dining is what Nakato is known for. And they are super-good at it! A little entertainment plus a great meal. All of the sushi is top-notch here as well. Don’t miss the Jenny Roll, a favorite. For an appetizer, try the bacon-wrapped scallops, the agedashi tofu or the seafood tempura. $$ L D
NIJI SUSHI
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. $$ L D
OMO JAPANESE SOUL FOOD
2215 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield
The ramen and udon soups are some of the tastiest items on the menu here, and they come with lots of fun toppings. We like to order it with spicy broth and either chasu pork or chicken katsu for the protein. There are also sushi rolls, bento boxes, takoyaki and desserts like mitrurashi dango. $$ L D
SAKURA
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 box-
es 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
KOREAN
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. Keep an eye out for Korean-style fried chicken, which is sometimes o ered on special.
$$ D
GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT
1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093
This spot serves up delicious and authentic Korean food. The beef bulgogi and dolsot bibimbap are best sellers here. We also love the fried dumplings and kimbop. Try the tasty kimchi fried rice or spicy octopus stir fry. If you’re in the mood for something really comforting on a cold day, opt
for the kimchi chigae. You also get a variety of Korean side dishes alongside your meal, which adds a lot of fun and flavor to the meal.
$ L D
KORIYA
4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077
This spot serves createyour-own bibimbap dishes, and you can choose between chicken, beef bulgogi, tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the japchae, made with slippery and sweet stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies—it’s fun to eat and so satisfying. Don’t miss the zaru soba if you’re in the mood for something lighter. You can also find ramen, stir fried noodles, beef bulgogi dishes, wonderful steamed dumplings (with the best sauce!) and much more. $ L D d
MEDITERRANEAN
CRAVE
MEDITERRANEAN CAFE
1111 E. Republic Road, Ste. 164, Springfield, 417306-9749, cravemediterraneancafe.com
There’s so much good stu on the menu here; shareable dips like hummus and baba ganoush, shawarma, kabob, gyros, falafel and more. Don’t miss the flaming cheese appetizer or the manakeesh flat bread with toppings like sumac chicken. $$–$$$ L D
GREEK BELLY
320 E. Walnut St., 417597-3382, greekbelly.com
We love everything we’ve tasted here! Try a tasty pork or chicken gyro topped with creamy tzatziki, tomatoes, onions and French fries on a so pita. Our favorite, though, is the loukaniko wrap. It’s an orange-spiced pork sausage served in a pita with spicy feta dip, fresh veggies and French fries. For dessert,
don’t miss the truly to-diefor ice cream topped with baklava and honey-cinnamon-citrus syrup. $ L D
THAT LEBANESE PLACE
338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677
The kibbeh is fantastic if you like herbaceous and satisfying eats, and any of the delicious and meaty kebabs is a great choice. We love the stu ed grape leaves appetizer, served with a delicious tahini dipping sauce. The falafel mushakal sandwich is great too, with falafel, baba ghanouj, French fries, fresh veggies, pickled turnips and tahini. There are plenty of options for diners with vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. For a super-delicious dessert, don’t miss the baklava. $–$$ L D
THE KEBAB SHACK
900 E. Battlefield, Suite 120, Springfield, 417-3069087
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, the lentil soup and the hummus are both great options. For dessert, get a fully loaded crepe.
$$ L D
VASKEN’S DELI
3200 Gretna Road, Suite D, Branson, 417-3349182, vaskensdeli.com
The gyros are fantastic here. Make sure you get them with traditional gyro meat, and don’t skip the tzatziki sauce! Everything’s better with tzatziki sauce, right? We are nuts for the beef shawarma too, though. It makes for a super delicious and satisfying meal and tastes amazing with tahini. $ L D
MEXICAN
CABOS
BONITOS GRILL & CANTINA
3637 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-2213490, cabosbonitos.com
Come to this east Springfield spot for all your Mexican favorites plus some fun and unique dishes like the fried avocado appetizer. It has beer-battered avocado halves filled with your choice of meat and topped with sour cream and chipotle ranch sauce. $$ L D
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 is varies, and we especially love the salsas. $$ L D
CASA BELLA MEXICAN CUISINE
4610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7715031; 300 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417885-9097
The menu is huge at Casa Bella, which has two Springfield locations. Try the tasty ceviche, any of the street tacos, or the spicy camarones a la diabla. The Battlefield restaurant location is huge too, so there’s plenty of room to bring your whole crew for some Mexican eats. $$ L D
CESAR’S OLD MEXICO
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
TRY IT NOW
Try a Little Bit of Everything
India Palace Restaurant & Bar (the Indian restaurant located in the former Avanzare restaurant space, and owned by the same folks as Taj Mahal Indian Cuisine) is now serving a lunch bu et on the weekends. Recent bu et days o ered loads of great dishes (with several vegetarian options in the mix) for $15.95 per person. The best part: The menu has been a little di erent every day. On a recent Friday, there were items like hakka noodles, tandori chicken, navratan korma and butter chicken and lots more. The next day, on Saturday, diners got a taste of kadhi pakora, burnt garlic fried rice and aloo vindaloo. And on Sunday, some new dishes showed up, like chicken lababdar, paneer makhani and carrot halwa for dessert.—Katie Pollock Estes
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
EL PARAISO MEXICAN KITCHEN
610 W. College St., Springfield, 417-7715641; 305 E. Chestnut St., Suite C, Stra ord, 417736-0019; 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 steak, shrimp, veggies and more. $$ L D
HABANERO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT + CANTINA
Locations in Springfield, Republic, Carthage and Joplin; habanerosmexicancantina.com
Orginally in Carthage, this popular Mexican restaurant has expanded to three other Ozarks cities. Don’t miss the tender quesabirria tacos with rich consomme for dipping. The nachos, enchiladas and guacamole are hits too. Try one of the hand-cra ed margaritas. $$ 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. $–$$ L D
PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8901212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com
Diners love the pollo abovado, an 8-ounce chicken breast that’s grilled and topped with homemade chorizo, white queso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos: three so corn tortillas filled with steak, cilantro and onions and served with rice, beans and avocado. $–$$ L D
SEÑOR JULIAN
MEXICAN BAR & GRILL
3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-240-2120
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 some tasty modern takes on Mexican street food, like street tacos filled with pork belly, chorizo burritos, must-try chilaquiles, aquachile, elote and more. Be sure to come on Saturday for Latin Night for Latin dancing. Brunch available on Sundays with items like morning tostadas. $$ BL D d
This tiny restaurant packs big flavors, with a menu that features traditional Mexican soups, handmade-to-order flour tortillas, quesabirria tacos, massive quesadillas, fajita baked potatoes and more. The tacos especiales are a favorite, filled with carne asada, cilantro, onions, queso fresco and avocado. If you like pozole, come on the weekends when they serve both that and menudo. Don’t miss the huge margaritas menu, featuring fun options like their mangonada margarita. $–$$ L D
TEAM TACO
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, and we always have to taste test the Ringer, the shop’s rotating special taco. We also love the tequila- and mezcal-based cocktails that pair so well with all those tasty tacos. $ L D d
TINGA TACOS
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 salty-sweet combination. $ L D
TORTILLERIA PERCHES
1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-864-8195
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
ASIAN FUSION
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 delicious top-notch steaks that are on the menu here, too. $$–$$$ L D d
THE WHEELHOUSE
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. They pack some spicy heat thanks to homemade kimchi. $ BL D
PIZZA
ARRIS’ PIZZA
1332 East Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-7260, arrispizzaonline.com
Greek-influenced. Thincrust pizzas have a Greek flair at Arris’ Pizza. Be 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, and it’s unlike bruschetta we’ve had other places. $–$$ L D
THE BIG SLICE
1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7201928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com
New York–style. You can get big New York–style brick oven pizza by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer, but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pizza. We love the creamy spinach pizza too, when we’re in the mood for a white pie. The gigantic pepperonis are a wonderful topping too. They are the same ones used in the pepperoni pinwheels. $–$$ L D
CHERI’S HAPPY PLACE
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 something like a mix between New York–style and Neapolitanstyle. 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. $$ D
GARBO’S PIZZERIA
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-8839010, garbospizzeria.com St. Louis–style. If you love a loaded St. Louis–style pizza, try the toppings-packed Grandiose. Or try the Bavarian pizza for something a little different; it is topped with Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. Customers are big fans of the Garbo’s house salad and its tasty homemade dressing. It’s honestly so hard to resist. $–$$ L D d
MASO PIZZA BAR
3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1047 Wood-fired. Maso Pizza Bar is owned by Nicola Gilardi and located just a 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. $$ D d
ONE 2 FIVE TAPROOM
1846 Highway 125, Rogersville, facebook. com/One2FiveTaproom Wood-fired. This taproom and micro-distillery is the first outpost of Springfield Brewing Company, and its menu specializes in wood-fired pizza cooked in a brick oven. The Bourbon BBQ pizza is topped with fire-roasted chicken, smoked mozarella, homemade bourbon barbecue sauce and both pickled onions and pickled jalapeños made in-house. Head there on a nice day to take advantage of all the backyard games. $$ L D d
PAPPO’S PIZZERIA
221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8661111; 900 East Battlefield Road, Springfield,
417-306-9091; 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. $–$$ L D
THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB
2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-368-0277
Hand-tossed. With a menu full of pizza, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pub fare and a killer beer selection, there’s something to please everyone. We love to build our own pizza with Alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. Be sure to order the Brussels sprouts appetizer; they are flash fried and crispy, served with crispy potatoes, lardons, goat cheese and a balsamic reduction drizzle.
$$ L D
PIZZA HOUSE
312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-881-4073
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
ROCCO’S PIZZA & SUBS
Multiple locations around 47-land; 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. $–$$ L D
SCHULTZ PIZZA + PUB
2210 W. Chesterfield St., Ste. 8683, Springfield, 417-885-0060, schultzpub.com
Neopolitan. The pizzas here are made using cold-fermented dough, a sauce of San Marzano tomatoes and a special pizza oven. Try the Blanco Formaggio white pizza made with garlic oil and five cheeses. Also on the menu: smash burgers, hot sandwiches, chicken wings and more. Try the fried goat cheese balls appetizer too. $$ L D
SLAP BOX PIZZA & WINGS
2932 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-886-3333 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, and so are the salads. Gluten-free crust is available. $$ L D d
PUBS & BARS
ANDY B’S TIKI BAR 433 Promenade Way, Branson, 417-213-8631, bransontikibar.com
Big news for lovers of island-style bevs and casual hangout spots: Andy B’s Tiki Bar has opened on Branson Landing, and it’s an extension of Springfield’s Andy B’s Bowl Social. Andy B’s Tiki Bar has a view of Lake Taneycomo, where guests can order tiki drinks, beer and other drinks. $
BEFORE & AFTER BREWING
2940 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, beforeandaerbrewhouse
There are excellent beers, espresso drinks and cocktails on the menu here,
along with zero-proof cocktails. As for what to eat, the snacks are stellar here. The loaded hot pretzel is an indulgence, and they serve tasty boards (with all the accouterments) that feature high-end tinned fish as the centerpiece. $$ L D
BEST OF LUCK BEER HALL
313-B South Je erson Ave., 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 one of the dra alcoholic punches. 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. $$ B L D d
BLACKSTONE GASTROPUB
1521 E. Broadway St., Joplin, 417-553-0665
Damien Tiregol of Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill now has another Joplin eatery. Blackstone Gastropub features hand-cra ed cocktails and 16 beers on tap alongside some great-looking eats like the crispy fried chicken, grilled salmon on a bed of gnocchi. Keep an eye out for Blackstone’s super-creative daily specials. Recently, we’ve seen a Seattle Roll with smoked burnt-end sausage and a ton of toppings, and smash-burger grilled tacos with jalapeño-ranch slaw. $ $ L D
BRICKTOWN BREWERY
2040 E. Independence St., 417-887-0100
This brewpub has its own beer plus local beer that can be hard to find elsewhere. Here the menu is vast and the food is tasty. We enjoyed the burgers,
and the apps menu included some super tasty options. This spot is also known for its cauliflower pizza crust. $$ L D
CLEAR LOUNGE
At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417243-3433
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 (buffalo) to unexpected (tandoori spice). There are also tons of apps, sammies and entrees. $ B L 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 (like the one topped with jalapeño bottle caps), 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, 417-339-5200, bigcedar.com/dining
This chic cocktail spot is located downstairs at the Worman House on the Big Cedar Lodge property. It’s
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
203 E. Mt. Vernon St., Nixa 417-763-6500 | 14millmarket.com Hours: Sun: 11am–8pm Mon: Closed Tues–Thurs: 8am–9pm (some kitchens close at 8pm) Fri: 8am–11pm (some kitchens close at 10pm) Sat: 9am–11pm (some kitchens close at 10pm)
Discover a vibrant marketplace offering ten distinct restaurant concepts. Fish and Chips from London Calling: Wild Caught Pollock, freshly battered to order and served with beer battered fries, house-made dill tartar sauce and fresh lemon.
Photo by Karen Knuth Photography
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 rotating menu of small plates and appetizers. We loved the short rib sliders and the strawberry-infused Paper Plane cocktail. $–$$ L D d
THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB
137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-4255162, thegoldengirl.com
This rum bar on the southwest corner of Park Central Square (with a great people-watching patio space) serves handcra ed cocktails and a made-fromscratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. Try the Thai sticky wings for an unusual twist on a bar staple. The pizza specials always come topped with creative ingredients for a seriously delicious and shareable pie. As for drinks, everything on the menu is reliable well-done. Our favorite: Mr Guava Lava, which is both fruity and spicy. $ L D d
GOOD SPIRITS & CO.
1424 E. Cherry St., Suite A, Springfield, goodspiritsandco.com
The owners of Good Spirits & Co. are behind some great local food and drink concepts (like The Golden Girl Rum Club, Sweet Boy’s Neighborhood Bar, Cherry Picker Package & Fare and Best of Luck Beer Hall), and their chic headquarters on Cherry Street is home to fun foodand-drink events. Check their website fro things like monthly Supper Club dinners, seasonal cocktail events and more. $$–$$$
J.O.B. PUBLIC HOUSE
319 E. Walnut St., Springfield, job417.com
This spot is known for its excellent bourbon selection and elevated bar food. Longtime favorites include
the Full Ride burger, the Codi Brah falafel sandwich, and the pepperoni pizza balls. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the O ce Crush, made with Rittenhouse Rye, housemade peach and black tea syrup, lemon juice and peach puree. $$ L D
LINDBERG’S TAVERN
318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688900, lindbergsbar.com
Forget about basic bar food. This storied watering 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
THE ROYAL
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. The Royal is also open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday with a lovely French-inspired menu. $ L D
SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY
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. Live music. $$ BL D d
SWEET BOY’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR
310 South Ave., Springfield, 417-7194224, sweetboysbar.com Come for pinball, a laid-
back atmosphere and a small but very well done cocktail list. For something more like dessert, try the HellBoy, a frozen Irish co ee with a Fat Boy’s ice cream sandwich. $
VINO CELLARS WINE SHOP & LOUNGE
2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7731985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-773-1985, vcellars.com
Small plates, snacks and tapas make up the menu at this comfortable spot.
$ L D
W.F. CODY’S
3138 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-8083
The cheeseburgers are a specialty at this restaurant, and they are enormous. Don’t miss the ham and cheese sandwiches, another customer favorite.
$ L D
SEAFOOD & FISH
CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL
815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com
This Joplin hot-spot serves some fantastic seafood, and we’ve enjoyed everything we’ve tried there. The Chilean sea bass is a specialty. Try some of the small plates, like portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. $$–$$$ L D
ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT
Call for directions to the ranch in Rockbridge; 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com
This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that specializes in all things trout. The super-fresh fish dishes are made with trout that are caught on the property. We love the trio appetizer, which comes with trout
salad, smoked trout and a trout dip that is so craveable! For an entree, try the blackened trout dish. $
BL D
VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY
260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8511768; roo opvantage.com
This roo op bar at Hotel Vandivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and even o ers dining igloos in the winter so you can enjoy the scene all year long. The cocktails are refreshingly creative and classically well-done, and the menu of shareables and snacks bring the concept of bar food up several notches with items like the pork rillette tartine. Make sure you try something from the super-fresh, beautifully prepared raw bar. The pickled shrimp and scallop ceviche are two of our faves. $$ d
STEAK
CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR
1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-823-8383 O erings of Waygu steaks, lamb shank and fish dishes are the highlights here. Indulgent lobster potato puree and crispy flashfried Brussels sprouts round out the side dishes, and raw oysters, ceviche and bone marrow pique the appetite as starters. Sample Char’s cocktails, or something o the extensive wine list. $$$ D d
FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
314 West Walnut Street, Springfield, 417-862-4444, flamesteakhouse.com
The restaurant specializes in dry-aged steaks that are truly delicious. Don’t miss the lobster macaroni and cheese (we’re serious; you have to try this stu ). The
desserts are always divine, and we can’t get enough of the appetizer menu. Head to Red Room downstairs for killer happy hour food and drink specials. (Don’t miss the burgers at happy hour! They are delicious and a bargain.) $$$ 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. $$–$$$ L D
LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE
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 delicious fried anchovies. Also, don’t miss the fresh Hawaiian ahi tuna served on a Himalayan salt block: delightful! Don’t sleep on the prime rib dip sandwich, either. $$$ B D
Dry-aged prime steaks are served in this restaurant’s fine-dining atmosphere. The sides are delicious too, with options like garlic
potato puree and tru e creamed corn. Be sure to try the charcuterie board with all the usual goodies plus some house-made jam. $$ 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. $$$ D
TEA ROOMS
BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM
1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-866-5533, bethsbakeshoppe.com
Try a chicken salad sandwich—served on cinnamon raisin bread. And we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette, and the gigantic couscous salad loaded with fresh veggies and Feta. $ L
MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM AND VINTAGE SUITCASE
211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8867000, robinsvintagesuitcase.com
The daily specials and desserts are the star of this tearoom and pastry shop on Commercial Street. There is always a quiche and soup of the day, plus desserts. $ L
SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM
107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331
The homemade desserts are to die for. Be sure to order them quickly before they run out—like you might want to order them
before you order entrees! Don’t miss the veggie sandwich, the strawberry soup or the chicken salad.
$ L
THAI
EVERYDAY THAI
220 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7700147, myeverydaythai. com
This spot serves consistently delicious Thai dishes. Some of our favorites are the tom kha gai soup, the comforting yellow curry with chicken and the mango sticky rice dessert. $–$$ L D
RAMA THAI CAFÉ
1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-3204
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
Something’s Brewing at Derby Deli
The new co ee counter is open Monday through Saturday at Derby Deli (Brown Derby International Wine Center, 2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Spring eld). We checked it out recently, and we must say it’s a beautiful addition to the Brown Derby International Wine Center. It shows o gorgeous shelving, a shiny La Marzocco espresso machine and a well-stocked pastry case. On the co ee side of things, they source their beans from Foxen Co ee, a family-owned roastery based in Monett, and their syrups from pink House alchemy in Northwest Arkansas. Also, you should de nitely come with a sweet tooth because they serve pastries by Buttermilk in addition to their typical cakes by St. Michael’s Restaurant and Catering, plus their baked-in house cookies and croissants. Or, simply end your meal at the Derby Deli with a shot of espresso. Owners Jennifer and Brad Feuerbacher were inspired to add co ee to the Derby Deli based on their trips to the south of France, where markets also house cafés. “We wanted to provide Spring eld with bits of the French lifestyle,” Jennifer says.—Tessa Cooper
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 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8650101, 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
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. The pineapple chicken stir fry entree is another customer favorite. $ L D d
HONG YEN
2926 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3513915, facebook.com/ hongyenrestaurant. Come to Hong Yen when you’re in search of excellent beef pho. The chicken 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. $ L D d
PHO KIM
3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8839999, phokimspringfield. com
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. $ 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). When it’s in season, order the mango sticky rice dessert. $ L D
VIETNAMESE
BAMBU
1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-9881
The pho is a specialty here. You can add spice, herbs, jalapeños and sprouts to customize it. (Our favorite:
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.
$ 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
Midwest Goodbye the
HEY, WE HAVE A FEW MORE OZARKS MOMENTS TO SHARE WITH YOU BEFORE YOU GO.
Glamping for Camping
Celebrating 30 years of their ministry, Camp Barnabas’s 2024 Glamping for Camping raised funds for their mission to help campers and students with disabilities.
Continued on page 122 >>
From le to right: Harlan Hodge and Pamela Westbrooks-Hodge
People Pics e MidwestGoodbye
Glamping for Camping
Camp Barnabas’s 2024 Glamping for Camping presented by Peter and Jan Herschend celebrated 30 years of their ministry for campers and students. The event raised an money to build a brand new cabin at camp.
Date: October 5
Benefiting Organization: Camp Barnabas
Location: Big Cedar Lodge Grandview Conference Center
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PHOTOS BY MARY ELLEN CHILES
1. Ashley and Cameron Casad
2. Janet and Andy Schuch
3. Rick and Tammy Melson
4. Wade and Cindy Moses
5. Kelli Oplotnik and Casey Weathermon
6. Alania and Brock Shonkwiler
7. Joe and Carol Greene, Andrea Dodge
Date: October 21
Benefiting Organization: Ozarks Public Television
Location: White River Conference Center
Sponsors: 417 Magazine, Alpha-Lit, Bill & Karen Krittenbrink, Brown Derby Wine Center, Easter Law Firm, DeSales Catholic Bookstore, Great Southern Bank, iHeart Radio, KY3, Linda, Brendon & Liz Bourg, TCS Printing & Graphics and more
1. Matt and Terri Perchal, Andrea and Jay Mostyn
2. Donnetta and Todd Ghys
3. Jakob and Kami Bayley, Will and Kay Medlin
4.
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6.
7. John
Wine & Food Celebration
An evening of wine from around the world, tastes from the area’s best restaurants, live entertainment and more benefited PBS KIDS programming on Ozarks Public Television and their mission to bring education media content to kids in the Ozarks.
Robi and Julie Finley
Matt Richardson and Lisa Reynolds
Claire Gidman and Mike Brown
Fahey, Jason Ray, Gabe Jackson
For her commitment to inclusion and the positive impact she has made for people with developmental disabilities, we are honored to celebrate
AILEEN DRESSLER
Friday, April 4th, 2025
3909 E. Cherry Street | Springfield, Missouri at this special event
HICKORY HILLS COUNTRY CLUB
Scan the QR code for sponsorship opportunities, tickets or donations.
PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT
Friends of Abilities First is a non-profit organization 501(c)(3) that assists with the needs and expenses of people with developmental disabilities in Greene County, when there are no other funding sources available. Friends of Abilities First also provides opportunities for inclusion where people live, learn, work, and play.
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.
e Midwest Goodbye WHERE’S417?
Bring 417 Magazine on your next adventure—whether you’re traveling or exploring close to home.
and
Julie Pinegar, Lisa Street,
brought their copy of the “Pickleball Is Life” issue to a pickleball game of their own.
copy of the “Take Me to the River” issue with them to Wisconsin.
1. Springfield, Missouri Ruth Fels, Karen Wickersham, Cathy Green, Susan Yaktine, Carol TerHark,
Cherise White
Tina Ne
2. Pine Lake, Wisconsin Jim Karr, Jon, Margaret and Mark Blume took their
3. Roatán, Honduras Logan, Dave, Cruz, Lucy and Lisa Aguirre brought their copy of the “Pickleball Is Life” issue with them to Honduras.
4. Wiltshire, England Christi Miglicco, Katy St. Clair and Xander St. Clair brought their copy of the “Co ee Culture” issue on their trip to Stonehenge.
5. Indonesia Kathy Wingo, Jennifer Hogan, Mendy Medlam and Melanie Morgan took their copy of the “Where to Eat Now” issue with them to Indonesia.
6. Coco Cay, Bahamas Debbie Nelson and Jim Smith brought their copy of the “Our Wild Places” issue to the Bahamas.
7. Riviera Maya, Mexico Mile and Betty Noennig, Cheryl and Richard Ormsby, and Lori and Je Fuge took their copy of the “Guide to Mexican Food” issue with them on their trip to Mexico.
Oh,OneMore Thing e Midwest Goodbye
Cindy Lear is a sign language interpreter and co-founder of Associates in Sign Language, a business that provides professional sign language services.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
“LEARNING THE LANGUAGE IS REALLY HARD, AND YOU HAVE TO REALLY COMMIT IF YOU WANT TO BE FLUENT IN IT.”
QHow did your business start, and what inspired you to create a business around sign language?
I moved from Kansas City where I was a state director for mental health services for deaf people in the state of Kansas. I moved down here and could not recreate my former position. When I moved to Spring eld, I discovered the services provided were probably 10 years behind what they were in other urban areas. I met Rebecca Blitch, who moved here from Vermont and discovered the same thing… We said, “Wouldn’t it be great if we could start a company here in Spring eld that would be a one-stop scheduling coordinating service for interpreting?”
What kind of events do you typically provide sign language interpreters for?
We have contracts with the state, and we provide social services, court and hospital interpreting. All of our interpreters are certi ed and licensed to provide the highest quality of interpreting available. One of the biggest needs we ll are for area schools… We have done interpreting for area employers who have deaf employees—like Silver Dollar City—or for deaf students attending area colleges. For fun work, you may nd us interpreting shows at Hammons Hall or at Branson shows.
Visit 417mag.com to read our extended interview with Cindy Lear.
