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November ★

VOLUME 29 | ISSUE 11, 2026

★

feature

70 10 True Ozarks Adventures

P H O TO B Y J O S H U A B E E C H E R

Turns out adventure is right in our backyard. We’ve compiled a list of 10 jam-packed itineraries for anyone who could use a bit of an escape. Keep this edition handy because we have recommendations for all seasons.

on the cover: Photographer Brandon Alms captured this fall moment at Whitaker Point in northwest Arkansas.

This issue planted 97 trees through PrintReleaf.

Get cozy at Finley Farms’ Stargazing & S’mores event.

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November From The Field 25 HIDDEN GEM 28 WE TRIED IT 30 MIDWEST NICE 32 CALENDAR

departments

The Chrestman family home blends Texas Hill Country style with modern Spanish design and a mix of masculine and feminine elements. Read more on p. 64.

The Long Way 49 WHERE TO WANDER 52 EN ROUTE 54 DETOUR

At Home

Taste This 83 DIG IN! 85 THE SWEET SPOT 86 BITE-SIZE REVIEW 87 IN THE KITCHEN 88 FRIED & TRUE

The Midwest Goodbye 105 PEOPLE PICS 110 WHERE’S 417? 112 OH, ONE MORE THING

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: 12 issues, $21. Visit 417mag.com/subscribe. Allow 4–6 weeks for processing orders, payment and changes of address. SINGLE ISSUE, NEWSSTAND: $5.95; back issues, $7 plus $8 shipping and handling, if available. No back issue orders or subscriptions outside the United States. ADDRESS CHANGES: Include both new address and mailing label with old address. 417 Magazine (ISSN 15389189) is published monthly by Whitaker Publishing, LLC, 2111 S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO 65809–2146. © Whitaker Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Periodical postage paid in Springfield, Missouri and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to 417 Magazine, 2111 S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO 65809–2146. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or cartoons. The Volume and Issue numbers appear on the front cover of the magazine. Printed in the United States of America.

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P H O TO BY STA R B O A R D & P O R T, I L L U S T R AT I O N BY G R A C E C H I P L E Y - T H O M P S O N

63 FEELS LIKE HOME 68 ARTFUL SPACES 69 IN THE GARDEN

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE POLLOCK ESTES editor@417mag.com MANAGING EDITOR & BUSINESS EDITOR DORI GRINDER dori@417mag.com SENIOR EDITOR JORDAN BLOMQUIST jblomquist@417mag.com CONTENT WRITER ALYSSA RONEY aroney@417mag.com EDITORIAL INTERN CAROLINE TROTMAN CREATIVE DIRECTOR SARAH PATTON sarah@417mag.com ART DIRECTOR JORDAN DYKSTRA jordan@417mag.com CREATIVE PRODUCTION MANAGER & PHOTOGRAPHER KATY ST. CLAIR kstclair@417mag.com SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER BRANDON ALMS brandon@417mag.com DESIGNER SYDNEY ARLT sarlt@417mag.com JUNIOR DESIGNER ALEX TINKER atinker@417mag.com PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN INTERN CAMERON GRAHAM photographer@417mag.com CONTRIBUTORS JOSH BEECHER, TESSA COOPER, MANDI FRITZ, JULIANA GOODWIN, HEATHER KOHLER, JEFF ROSE, KRISTIN SHARP, MACY SCOTT, TARYN SHORR-MCKEE, STARBOARD & PORT, BRAD ZWEERINK

BUSINESS PUBLISHER LOGAN AGUIRRE logan@417mag.com VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AND CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS MEGAN JOHNSON mjohnson@417mag.com SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE VALERIE PISTER valerie@417mag.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE OLIVIA SMITH olivia@417mag.com SALES COORDINATOR ALLISON CLEMENTS allison@417mag.com OPERATIONS DIRECTOR CARRIE POWELL carrie@417mag.com STUDIO & STRATEGIC ACCOUNTS MANAGER JENNA ANGEL jenna@417mag.com MARKETING DIRECTOR BETHANY BELL bbell@417mag.com EVENT & PROGRAMMING MANAGER ERIK KISER erik@417mag.com BRAND CONTENT PRODUCER ARIELLE DONAHUE arielle@417mag.com OPERATIONS MANAGER ERIN KINGHAM ekingham@417mag.com OPERATIONS COORDINATOR HALLIE SCHULZ hallie@417mag.com CLIENT SUCCESS MANAGER KATHY GRIEVE kathy@417mag.com SENIOR DESIGNER MIKAYLA BROWN mbrown@417mag.com ADVERTISING & BRAND DESIGNER MCKENZIE KEY mckenzie@417mag.com

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Social Life

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Follow Us for the Good Stuff Find @417mag Instagram, where we share even more Ozarks moments than what you’ll find on these pages. Here’s a preview of what’s coming up:

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We are a proud member of Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, LORE: Leaders for Ozarks Region Evolvement, Ozark Chamber of Commerce, Branson Chamber and Convention & Visitors Bureau, City and Regional Magazine Association, Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce, Home Builders Association of Springfield and Republic Area Chamber of Commerce.

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We’ve announced the date and location for Biz 417’s annual Think Summit event: May 7, 2027 at the Convoy of Hope Global Headquarters. Trust us, this is one you’ll definitely want to snag tickets for. It’s a full day packed with inspirational speakers who bring big ideas to the stage. The topics are thought-provoking, the talks are electric and the takeaways are always solid. By the time the day is through, your brain will be buzzing in the very best way.

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Visit us online for exclusive content you can only find there, tailor made for 417-landers. This month, you’ll find a roundup of local tea rooms (you can think of it as a thematic parter to Jordan Blomquist’s story about a sweet afternoon tea event in Branson on p. 25) that are perfect for the lunch with the girlfriends. Plus, Alyssa Roney has put together a guide to local antique and thrift stores, including each one’s niche and what kinds of treasures you can find there.

Family Fun

Perfect Fall Stroll History buffs and nature lovers, come along with us to explore Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield. We promise the Reel will make you want to plan your own crisp fall day wandering this historic site. Get in the Spirit Christmas and holiday pop-up bar season is about to begin! Check in with us on Instagram, as Food Editor Tessa Cooper checks out some of the ones that are happening this year. With over-the-top festive decor and special cocktails, they are always a good time. OOO The FourOneSeven crew is taking a little time off Thanksgiving. Follow us on Instagram to find out how we’re celebrating.

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If you’re not already subscribed to Little Locals, our family-focused newsletter featuring great kid-friendly activities, you’ll want to do it now! Winter season is surprisingly packed with fun stuff—plus links to exclusive digital content, like this month’s story about where to take your kids ice skating.

Speaking of Turkey Day... If you’re hosting Thanksgiving this year and need some cocktail inspo to impress your guests, watch our Reel with Mandi Fritz from 417 Cocktails. We’re thirsty just thinking about it.

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NOVEMBER 2026

➽

Editor’s Note

TALK TO US Feel Good Note

One of the most common city magazine feature topics is to outline the activities and sites you just have to take advantage of if you want to truly call yourself a local. The headline is often “50 Things You Must Do To Be a True St. Louisan” or something along those lines. Are you really a Coloradoan if you haven’t explored Rocky Mountain National Park? Are you a true Chicagoan if you haven’t snarfed down a toppings-laden hot dog from a street vendor? It’s not meant to be taken too literally, of course. Nobody is going to take away your local badges of honor if you haven’t yet done one of the items on the list. Rather, it’s a way to look at a city or region and say, “What makes this place different than everywhere else?” Why exactly do we choose to live here, and are we really and truly taking full advantage of those things? Where are the places we’d take visitors if we wanted to show them what gives our region its own unique flavor? 20

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE@417MAG.COM

TANJA LAMBERT

We’re glad it brought you a little joy, Tanja! The pop-up events at the Whisper Mill Speakeasy at 14 Mill Market (i.e. what Tanja is referring to in her note, after we wrote about it) brings the Ozarks a bit of joy too!—Editor Making Waves

We have received so much positive feedback and even a few volunteer apps from your story! I so appreciate you guys for doing this for Safe to Sleep. JESSICA LURAAS

In our October edition, we wrote about Safe to Sleep, the overnight shelter that’s doing things a little differently for unhoused women in the Ozarks. Jessica Luraas is the organization’s director, and you can read all about what they do at 417mag.com.—Editor Eagle Eyes

In your Winery Weekends magazine, page 75, please check the spelling of Adam “Putcha” Winery. The correct spelling is Puchta. Am enjoying the 417 Magazine! JOAN PATA

Dang it. There’s nothing we hate more than a typo. Thank you for catching this for us. In our feature about Missouri’s wine country in the October edition of 417 Magazine, we misspelled Adam Puchta Winery, and we regret the error. This has been corrected at 417mag.com.—Editor To send us feedback or story ideas, email editor@417mag.com.

I L L U S T R AT I O N BY D A N W I L L I A M S

ARE YOU A LOCAL YET?

And if you happen to have done them all... well... you kind of do deserve a medal for that, in my opinion. I mean, we’re all busy, right? If you can check off everything on a “50 Things You Must Do” type of list, then you’re winning at life. In this issue, we’re tackling that city magazine topic in our own, Ozarks way. Our “10 True Ozarks Adventures” offers fleshed out itineraries that you can follow if you want to hit all the very best, must-do, truly southwest Missourian activities. These are the things that make us, us. It includes everything from coving out on the lake and floating down a springfed river to exploring Route 66 and seeking all the funkiest roadside oddities in the Springfield area. I enjoyed writing this story—nearly all of it colored by my own personal experience of getting to know this region over the nearly 21 years I’ve been here. But I especially enjoyed the little patches our art team (Creative Director Sarah Patton and Designer Sydney Arlt, in this case) added to the layout. If you have completed a particular itinerary (or something similar that’s in the spirit of that activity), consider yourself an official patch-holder! You earned it. Now turn to p. 70 to see how many honors you get to add to your very unofficial Ozarks Scouts sash.

Thank you so much for the amazing article! After an incredibly challenging week, it came at the exact perfect moment... a reminder of all the great work our team is doing. I can’t thank you enough for the including us and please send gratitude to your team for making the time to take the trips out to Nixa. Have a great weekend!

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NOVEMBER 2026

Contributors

D E S IG N E R

A Soggy Lesson Learned we call ourselves the a team, a nod to our last name, Aguirre. But during a Mother’s Day float on the Buffalo River, our son Cruz offered a correction: “We’re the A Team, but we brought our Z game.” He wasn’t wrong. Floating the Buffalo in May was on our Ozarks bucket list. We rented canoes and arrived wildly unprepared. No dry bag. A stronger current than expected. A few flips later, everything was soaked. The kids and I had packed dry clothes. My husband hadn’t seen the need until he faced a long, wet drive home. Thankfully he was able to purchase an entire new Buffalo River–

NOVEMBER 2026

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themed outfit on our way out of town. When he busts out those sweatpants, we can’t help but laugh. Now it’s your turn. Pick an itinerary from this month’s “10 True Ozark Adventures” feature, set aside a day, and go explore. Because if we don’t have a good story to tell, did we even have a good time? I would still recommend you grab that dry bag.

PUBLISHER LOGAN@417MAG.COM @LOGAN_IN_417LAND

I’ve always thought it would be fun to play tourist in the city I live in. I mean, can you really call yourself an Ozarker if you haven’t done all the things? For our November “10 True Ozarks Adventures” feature, I wanted the visuals to capture the spirit of exploration that makes this place so memorable. Drawing on the nostalgia of scouting, I designed a set of 10 merit-style badges, one for each adventure. Each badge began in Adobe Illustrator, where I built the graphic elements. I then brought them into Photoshop to give them the look and feel of real embroidered patches, complete with textured thread and detailed stitching. The goal was to make them feel tangible, as if you could pull one off the page and stick it onto a backpack. These badges turn the feature into a scavenger hunt. Just as scouts earn a badge for every skill they master, you can “earn” a badge for each adventure you complete. Finish all 10, and you’ve collected a full set: a souvenir of your adventures in the Ozarks. It’s a playful way to invite you to explore the place you live, try something new and keep a little memento of the experience. How many badges will you collect?

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HIDDEN GEM

Tea for Two At Crème De La Crème Teas, antique dishware, oversized hats and tiers of sweet and savory treats turn a late afternoon in Branson into a proper tea party. B Y JOR D A N B L OM Q U IS T PHOT OG R A PHE D B Y K A R E N K N U T H

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From The Field

y first real afternoon tea experience was in London at 17 years old. I remember the macarons being pillowy, the sandwiches being cute and tiny, the dishware being more beautiful than any I’d ever seen and the tea being endless. I was with my whole family—my parents, my older brother and my two little sisters—and we all couldn’t stop laughing at my brother’s instinct to put his pinky up every time he sipped from his small teacup. Since then, I’ve experienced afternoon tea at a few other places across Europe, so I feel qualified to say that the Crème De La Crème Teas pop-up at Sugar Leaf Bakery, Cafe & Espresso (2800 W. 76 Country Blvd. Suite 211, Branson) by Canyon’s Edge Farm can hold its own. MaryBeth Hood, owner of Canyon’s Edge Farm, hosts the afternoon teas one to two times a month on weekends. Each tea is $42 per person, with special event teas, such as Mother’s Day, featuring an expanded menu and a slightly different price. The teas also support a larger mission, with 20% of profits donated to organizations fighting human trafficking. The table was beautifully set with antique dishware, fresh rose petals and place cards with our names hand-scripted on them. We could immediately tell every detail was thoughtfully created. “My heart is to bless the guests with beauty, excellent food, a wonderful experience and connection,” Hood says. “Tea time is a departure from our crazy, fastpaced world.” Once everyone was seated (each event has 35–55 attendees), Hood gave a brief history of afternoon tea.

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It dates back to 1840, when Anna Maria Russell, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, found herself hungry during the long stretch between lunch and her household’s 8 p.m. dinner. Relatable. She began having tea and a small snack brought to her in the afternoon, eventually turning the solo ritual into a social occasion by inviting friends to join her. After the introduction, Hood pointed us toward the tea table. Before choosing our tea, my mom and I picked out large hats that matched our dresses to wear during the tea party. Then, we chose our teacups from a collection of some of the most stunning cups I’d ever seen.

Hood told us the collection began with gifts from important women in her life, including her mother, grandmothers, mother-in-law and mentors. When she lived in Pennsylvania, she also hosted afternoon teas at nursing homes, using tea time as a way to pour into the lives of others. Now, Hood dreams of one day having a cute Victorian house where she can host these teas more often and have more room to store and use her antique dishware. Maybe she’d rent out the upstairs or turn it into an Airbnb. Back at our table, tiered serving stands filled with treats were being placed alongside two teapots, one with hot wa-

ter and one with a house South African anyone can make me pavlova, my email rooibos tea. is jblomquist@417mag.com. Thank you Hood let us know that traditionally, in advance. you start with the items on the bottom tiFor tea, I went with mango pineaper and work your way up. On the bottom ple tea, while my mom chose raspberry were barbecue chicken skewers, cucumpomegranate, which ended up being our ber sandwiches and pesto crostini. In the favorite of the two. middle were warm mixed berry cobbler The evening gave my mom and me and blueberry lemon scones. Next to the time to catch up one-on-one, something scones were mini jars of the most deliwe don’t often get the chance to do, along cious mixed berry jam I’d ever tasted. with lots of “mmmm” and “wow.” Hood instructed us to add a bit of jam There was plenty of hot tea, plenty of and a dollop of clotted cream before each delicious sweets and, most importantly, bite of the scone. “Dollop means whatplenty of time to connect. That’s exactly ever you want it to mean,” what Hood hopes to creHood said with a wink. ate for people through The top tier had choceach special tea party Clockwise from olate-covered strawberexperience. I sure hope above left: mixed ries—perfectly fudgy, not she gets her Victorian berry cobbler, Jordan Blomquist (orange flaky—and berry pavlova. house someday. After all, hat) chooses the I’d never tried pavlova if anyone deserves a little perfect teacup, and before, but I’m officially Victorian tea room of her MaryBeth Hood checks on guests. making up for lost time. If own, it’s her. 417MAG.COM

NOVEMBER 2026

WE TRIED IT

Creating Space

Maker spaces at the Midtown Carnegie Branch Library and the new Republic Branch Library provide places for people to try new technology and create projects of their own. BY ALYSSA RON E Y

n 2020, alice barber and other District. Both new maker spaces were assisted by librarians at Springfield’s Midtown a $30,000 grant from the Schneider Foundation Carnegie Branch Library began earlier this year. Greene County residents and nontraining for the library’s latest instalGreene County residents alike can enjoy access to lation: a maker space. the maker spaces. Aspirations for the space started when the library’s previous executive director attended a conMaking an Impression ference that featured maker spaces. “They showed Of course, I had to get in on the action myself. I how it’s been helpful for businesses, for arts and started by booking a one-on-one appointment at crafts, kids programming,” says Barber, a reference the Midtown Carnegie Branch maker space one associate. “She wanted to see us have that here.” week in advance. As someone with no experience In a short time, the maker space would live in a using most of the space’s offerings, I knew I’d need conference room, relatively limited in its offerings. more help than what is afforded at the Wednesday It had one 3D printer, a VHS digitizer, a heat press afternoon/midday Saturday open studios. and a large vinyl printer for patrons to use. What surprised me the most was how approachSince then, the space has expanded to include a able the maker space was. Barber, my instructor, Glowforge Pro HD, an additional 3D printer, a but- has a thorough knowledge of the machinery and ton maker, Cricuts, sewing machines and more, all made me feel at ease, no matter my selection. while moving into a designated space As far as creative projects go, makon the lowest floor in 2023. er spaces are very accessible. Aside This move occurred just three from the cost of materials, using the Get creative with maker spaces at years before the Republic Branch space is free. the Midtown CarLibrary building’s grand opening, I immediately knew that I wanted negie (above) and starting another maker space in the to take advantage of my 3D printer Republic library branches. Springfield-Greene County Library access. For beginners, Barber recom28

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mends quick and simple prints like the one I selected, Fred the Frog. Getting started was as simple as picking out the filament color (I did a metallic pink-blue) and having Barber select the pre-programmed frog on the 3D printer, a Prusa i3 MK3S+. The print bed and nozzle were then both heated up to properly melt the filament and give structure to the creation, with a honeycomb-patterned interior and a thinly striped exterior. Because of how hot the machine can get (419 degrees Fahrenheit, in my case), only trained maker space employees may operate the 3D printers themselves. The 30-minute print gave me time to browse the rest of the maker space’s offerings and look at other patrons’ creations, including Dungeons & Dragons paraphernalia, T-shirts, a laser-engraved disc golf set and fidget toys. I ended up stopping by a Cricut machine to print a few groovy stickers to add to my collection. While some patrons come in with designs of their own, it is easy to print from preexisting online projects. 3D print models and sticker designs may be accessed using the on-site computers, so finding designs to your liking is super-simple. Before I knew it, Fred the Frog and my sheet of stickers were ready to go, both completed within my hour-long session.

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From The Field

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NOVEMBER 2026

From The Field

Left to right: Tyler Crowe, Josh Sullivan and Bryan Elliott showcase their award-winning skate decks. MIDWEST NICE

Scary-Good Skate Decks Josh Sullivan, owner and executive creative director of Fried Design Company, has loved skating since he was a kid. Now, he’s helping the next generation of skateboarders achieve their dreams by giving away his company’s awardwinning Ozarks cryptid–themed skate decks in collaboration with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board.

hen josh sullivan was a teenager, he had a favorite Springfield spot to kill time at: the Springfield Skate Park. At the time, the park was privately owned, and it offered a place for Sullivan to sharpen his skills. Now Sullivan is the owner and executive creative director of Fried Design Company. After leaving and returning to Springfield, he made it a mission to provide not-for-profit work through his graphic design company as a way of giving back to Springfield. “The big thing for us is we don’t want to just give money,” Sullivan says. “If we can do some-

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thing cool where we can give our art, that’s so much more interesting for us.” Sullivan’s work came full circle when Fried Design Company partnered with the Springfield Skate Park by sponsoring skate camps. Over the years, they have produced T-shirts, stickers and skate decks (the flat part of a board) for the kids. For Sullivan, this means kids can come home with a keepsake that they might not have been able to purchase. Creative Cryptids Fried Design Company’s latest project for the skate park earned them recognition in

not only the local sphere, but the national as well. Earlier in 2026, Fried Design Company took home a gold ADDY Award, a recognition given through the American Advertising Awards, for their work on skate decks for Springfield skate camps. This was followed by a gold award at the superregional level. The project in question was a limited-edition skate deck series, with each deck featuring a different creature from Ozarks folklore. These include the Ozark Howler, a bear-sized shaggy beast with glowing red eyes and horns; Gowrow, a tusked, cave-dwelling reptile; and Momo,

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B Y A LY S S A RON E Y

“The awards are one thing, but being able to see how psyched the kids are to get this is even better.” —Josh Sullivan

a Bigfoot-esque furry humanoid. The skate decks were the brainchild of Fried Design Company’s senior designer and illustrator, Tyler Crowe. Crowe, along with Sullivan and Bryan Elliott, associate creative director, treated the pro bono skate decks with care, setting aside nearly 45 hours total for each deck. The character designs draw from the cultural well of skateboarding, something Sullivan is all too familiar with. He says that he enjoyed being pushed to experiment with illustration style and typography while working in an interesting canvas layout, with the intention of making the characters truly “rock ’n’ roll.” After the team finishes their work, art files are sent to the Springfield Skate Park, which prints and sells them to raise money for seasonal skate camps and gives them away to young skateboarders. Rolling Forward Sullivan says he is excited to continue making an impact on kids through his company’s partnership with the Springfield-Greene County Park Board. With another ADDY Award under Sullivan’s belt, the park board can be assured that Fried Design Company’s work is of the highest caliber. “Whenever you see something that you’ve invested so much time and money in, and you’re able to share that win with them and give them a reaffirmation that they made a good decision in going with us, even though it was free, it was just a nice thing to have,” Sullivan says. “The awards are one thing, but being able to see how psyched the kids are to get this is even better.” 417MAG.COM

NOVEMBER 2026

From The Field

Springfield Symphony Orchestra

November Calendar

This month is packed with can’t-miss theatre, excellent comedy and more. Find these and other great local events at calendar.417mag.com.

HOCUS POCUS DRAG BRUNCH November 1

SHEPHERD’S WINTERFEST November 2–January 2

SALTY MOM COMEDY TOUR November 3

The Widow Von’Du (who you might recognize from RuPaul’s Drag Race) hosts this “wickedly fabulous” drag brunch. The event ties a nice, spooky bow on Halloween weekend. Costumes are encouraged, particularly ones that are witch-themed. $29–36.50; 2 p.m. (doors at 1 p.m.); Springfield Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield

Shepherd of the Hills gets into the holiday spirit in wholly traditional ways with WinterFest. Expect horse-drawn carriage rides, several Christmas dinner shows, the walk-through North Pole Adventure and the property’s long-running drive-through Trail of Lights. $35–60; days and showtimes vary; Shepherd of the Hills, 5585 W. 76 Country Boulevard., Branson

Headliner comedians Holly Ballantine and Amy Brown present this special show, a “filter-free night out for women who survive on dry shampoo and controlled chaos.” Men are welcome, too, but the straight-to-the-point jokes revolve largely around motherhood and marriage from a woman’s perspective. $26–36.50; 7 p.m. (doors at 6 p.m.); Springfield Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield

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NOW OPEN! LIMITED TIME HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE! WONDERSOFWILDLIFE.ORG/SEASONS

Uncover the Ancient History of the Ozarks Explore over 35,000 square feet of galleries showcasing the American West, the Civil War and astounding collections of Native American artifacts at the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum at Top of the Rock. The Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum is proudly part of the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation.

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MOVIE MATINEE: THE OUTLAW JOSEY WALES November 4

Break up the week and cozy up indoors with a mid-day showing of Clint Eastwood’s 1976 film The Outlaw Josey Wales. In the classic, Eastwood plays a Confederate Army soldier out for revenge. Tickets are just $5, but $10 combo tickets are also available, which include a snack and non-alcoholic drink from concessions. $5–10; 2 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E., Springfield FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK November 6

Downtown becomes one giant gallery during First Fridays, with venues displaying art in various mediums. In addition to more traditional art, enjoy live music, fashion and food across 20+ businesses including the Gillioz Theatre, MSU’s Brick City Gallery, the Creamery Arts Center and others. Free; 4:30–10 p.m.; downtown Springfield

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NURSE BLAKE: BUT DID YOU DIE? COMEDY TOUR November 6

A former surgical ICU nurse, Nurse Blake has endless tales to tell. He has an amazingly relatable storytelling style, loved just as much by healthcare workers as average citizens. VIP upgrade available, which includes a postshow selfie opportunity and limited edition Nurse Blake swag. $41.92–145.93; 7 p.m. (doors at 6); Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E., Springfield DUNCAN TRUSSELL November 6–7

Famously discovered and given his big break by Joe Rogan, Duncan Trussell is a well-rounded comedian who’s performed all over North America. Today, he hosts a wildly successful podcast called The Duncan Trussell Family Hour and an animated Netflix series, The Midnight Gospel. $30.29–41.29; 7 and 9:45 p.m. Friday, 6

Branson Is Open for Christmas The holiday season comes out in full force in Branson as early as November. Here are just a few of the ways you can enjoy the season all around town. BY K AT IE P OL L OC K E S T E S

An Old Time Christmas When: November 7 through January 2 Where: Silver Dollar City. There’s just something so magical about wandering Silver Dollar City after dark, while it’s illuminated by more than 6.5 million lights that practically coat the Midtown area buildings. Also on the agenda: evening parades every night, productions of A Dickens Christmas Carol, and great seasonal snacks. (You can’t go wrong with a warm cup of wassail.) Christmas Tree Lighting When: November 7, 7:30–8:30 p.m. The tree typically stays lit through New Year’s Eve

Where: Branson Landing. Every year, the giant tree in Branson Landing’s Town Square comes to life with choreographed light shows, adding some festive glow to your holiday shopping experience. Expect live music and other fun happenings. The Polar Express When: November 12 through January 2 Where: Branson Scenic Railway. The Polar Express departs for its first trip to the North Pole this month, and it’s such a fun way to bring the magic of the holiday season to your kiddos. As the train chugs down

and 8:45 p.m. Saturday ; Springfield Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield RADIUM GIRLS November 6–8

Springfield Little Theatre Education Department’s Youth Entertainment Series presents this show based on true events. Set in the 1920s, the historical drama explores mature themes including long-term effects of radiation poisoning, illness and death, corporate

the track, kids hear a retelling of the Polar Express story while they sip whipped-cream-laden hot chocolate, munch on cookies and meet Santa. Hot tip: Wear you PJs for maximum coziness. America’s Christmas Tree City Tour When: All season long Where: Businesses and sites throughout Branson In 2016, the city started the Branson Christmas Tree Tour to celebrate their title as America’s Christmas Tree City. Now, 10 years later, guests can see more than 100 creatively decorated Christmas trees in just about every nook of the town via a self-guided tour.

negligence and standing up for what’s right. $23; 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. matinee Saturday and Sunday; The Studio Theatre at The Judith Enyeart Reynolds School of the Performing Arts, 237 S. Florence Ave., Springfield WINGAPALOOZA November 7

Billing itself as “America’s original buffalo wing festival,” Wingapalooza has been run417MAG.COM

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From The Field ning for over 24 years. Sample wings and wing sauces from over 65 restaurants and chefs, plus enjoy an allday lineup of local music. All wing samples included with admission. $20–30; 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; Springfield Expo Center, 635 E. Saint Louis St., Springfield MERCYME November 7

It’s Date Night Give the gift of a great date! Enter the Great Dates Giveaway for a chance to win romantic dinners, weekend getaways and adventures for two from 417-land favorites. With more than $2,000 in prizes, it's a gift you'll both love! Enter October 28–November 15.

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Contemporary Christian artists MercyMe, Jeremy Camp, Tim Timmons and Sam Wesley join for an incredible night of music in 417-land. Doors open at 6 p.m. $30–209; 7 p.m.; Great Southern Bank Arena, 685 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield

Calendar Christmas runs through January 2, 2027. Single-day tickets start at $65; Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy., Branson

and recently released a new album of his own, Another Year Older. $44‒68; 8 p.m. (doors at 7); Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E., Springfield

RANDY TRAVIS November 8

AKAASH SINGH November 12–14

Country music legend and Hall of Famer Randy Travis makes an extra-special appearance at Clay Cooper Theatre, joining his original band as they take the stage for one night only. This is the first time the singer has hit the road touring since before his stroke in 2013. $25–65; 8 p.m.; Clay Cooper Theatre; 3216 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson

Singh’s comedy specials have racked up about two billion views on YouTube alone, so it’s safe to say audiences love him. He’s been everywhere, from TV to podcasts in addition to the stage. $36.50–53.50; 6:30 p.m. Thursday, 6:30 and 9:15 p.m. Friday and Saturday; Springfield Comedy Club, 420 W. College Street, Springfield

GATHER: A CINEMATIC DINING EXPERIENCE November 8

POLAR EXPRESS November 12–January 2

GATHER (Growing and Aspiring Talent in Hospitality through Education and Readiness) is the signature annual event of Missouri State University Hospitality Leadership, put on entirely by students in the Special Event Planning course. The evening includes a five-course menu, with each course inspired by a movie genre. $125; 6–9 p.m.; Bond Learning Center at Darr Agricultural Center, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield

All aboard for a holiday train ride inspired by—and just as magical as—the classic children’s book and movie. The journey to the North Pole via Branson Scenic Railway includes a reading of The Polar Express, hot chocolate and cookies, Christmas carols, a visit from Santa himself and a keepsake silver sleigh bell for every passenger. $39–94; dates and departure times vary; Branson train depot, 206 E. Main St., Branson

AN OLD TIME CHRISTMAS AT SILVER DOLLAR CITY November 7–January 2

LARRY FLEET November 12

The holiday season isn’t officially here until you go to SDC for An Old Time Christmas. Wander through over 6.5 million lights, enjoy nightly parades and Broadway-style shows, shop handcrafted gifts and eat holiday treats. An Old Time

With support from Dasher The Band, platinum singer-songwriter Larry Fleet graces the stage with his distinctive deep, soulful voice. Fleet co-wrote Morgan Wallen and Eric Church’s number-one single, “Man Made A Bar,”

NUTCRACKER! MAGICAL CHRISTMAS BALLET November 13

LIVERPOOL LEGENDS: THE COMPLETE BEATLES EXPERIENCE! November 7

The late Louise Harrison, sister of Beatle George Harrison, personally curated the four musicians comprising Liverpool Legends. This one-of-a-kind show includes musical performances, acting and Louise’s narration. $61‒96; 7:30 p.m. (doors at 6:30); Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E., Springfield

Kick off the season with a longtime holiday tradition. Tchaikovsky’s famous score sets the stage for a night of world-class dancing, gravity-defying acrobatics, spectacular costumes and towering puppets, all telling

the beloved Nutcracker story. $35–192; 7 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E, Springfield ANNUAL STARGAZING & S’MORES EVENT November 13

Bring the whole family to Finley Farms for a complimentary night of wood-fired pizza, live music, socializing by the fire pits and the beautiful night sky. Members of The Springfield Astronomical Society will be on hand with telescopes, allowing guests to look and answering their questions. 6–10 p.m.; 802 Finley Farms Ln., Ozark SPRINGFIELD SYMPHONY: ROUTE 66 – AN AMERICAN ROAD TRIP November 14

Springfield Symphony Orchestra presents a special Route 66-themed show, taking the audience on an immersive great American road trip. The night’s music illustrates our country’s most iconic landmarks, from national parks to the Mississippi River and beyond. Special guest Xavier Foley will join the orchestra, adding a jazzy flair. Tickets start at $54; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q Hammons Pkwy., Springfield MATT MATHEWS: NOT WHAT I ORDERED WORLD TOUR November 20

Hammons Hall transforms into a comedy stage as funny man Matt Mathews regales the audience with tales of farm life, family chaos and other reminders that life is rarely what we expected. Mathews’ style is described as “unfiltered” and “brutally honest.” $54.25–$87.75; 7 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q Hammons Pkwy., Springfield FIRE SAFETY STORYTIME November 20

In this special monthly storytime, a partnership between the Discovery Center, Springfield Fire Department and Great Southern Bank, families learn about fire safety. Firefighters tell stories, perform demonstrations and give children free books. Free with museum admission; 10:30 a.m.; Discovery Center, 438 E. St. Louis St., Springfield 417MAG.COM

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From The Field

Calendar

WINE & JAZZ SERIES: PRESENTED BY THE MELODY ROOM November 20

Head to the Melody Room, inside The Gallery at the Gillioz, for an evening of wine and jazz by vocalist Laura French. When you arrive, pour a glass, pick a seat and settle in. 21+; $40; 8 p.m. (doors at 7); Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E, Springfield MAYOR’S CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING November 21

Join your fellow Springfieldians for a long-standing city tradition that ushers in the holiday season. Before the tree lighting at the culmination of the night, enjoy live performances (including Mayor Jeff Schrag reading a holiday story), free cookies and cocoa, a holiday market, free horse-drawn carriage rides and more. Free; 6–8:30 p.m.; Park Central Square, downtown Springfield

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SPRINGFIELD CHRISTMAS PARADE November 21

CHAD DANIELS November 21

For the first time ever, the city’s Christmas parade will be held the same day as the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting events. The parade starts in downtown Springfield at South Avenue and Elm Street and moves north, ultimately ending at the Springfield Expo Center. Come early to snag a good viewing spot along the sidewalk! Free; 3 p.m. start; downtown Springfield

Chad Daniels has one impressive claim to fame: He’s one of the most listened to comedians of all time, with nearly one billion streams of his six comedy albums. The comedian has toured for 20-plus years and is one of just 13 comics featured on The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien. $31–42; 6 and 8:45 p.m.; Springfield Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield

ROB SCHNEIDER November 21

61ST ANNUAL OZARK CHAMBER CHRISTMAS PARADE November 21

The legendary Rob Schneider brings his standup to the Gillioz for one night. He’s perhaps most recognizable from his SNL days or dozens of Adam Sandler movies, but Schneider is also an accomplished screenwriter, director and of course, comedian. 18+; Tickets start at $58; 7:30 p.m. (doors at 6:30); Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E, Springfield

This annual parade winds through downtown Ozark the Saturday before Thanksgiving. This year’s theme is Patriotic Christmas: Stars, Stripes & Christmas Lights, and festivities kick off with Santa Village on the Square, shopping, food trucks and activities. Festivities start at 2 p.m., parade at 7:30; historic downtown Ozark

LEANNE MORGAN: THE TIME OF OUR LIVES TOUR November 22

FALL CLASSICS: NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION November 27

Leanne Morgan is making just 32 stops across the country on her tour, so don’t miss your chance to see her. She’s been called “a major force in standup,” telling stories about relatable adult- and womanhood topics. Tickets start at $52.75; 7 p.m.; Great Southern Bank Arena, 685 S. John Q Hammons Pkwy., Springfield

Wrap up your Black Friday with a screening of this holiday classic. Bonus: Come dressed as your favorite Christmas Vacation character for a chance to win prizes. General admission seating. $12–15; 8 p.m. (doors at 7); Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield

32ND ANNUAL TURKEY TROT November 26

Get your crew together and get moving at the largest Thanksgiving race in Missouri. The race takes place rain or shine, and walking and leashed dogs are welcome (please register in the Dog category). Bring seven non-perishable food items to benefit Ozarks Food Harvest. $40–45, 8 a.m.; corner of E. St. Louis St. & S. John Q Hammons Pkwy., Springfield

KATHERINE BLANFORD November 27–28

Audiences have dubbed Blanford a “Golden Retriever” on stage, endearing and relatable while telling jokes about growing up in Kentucky and her awkward adolescent years. She’s appeared on numerous latenight TV shows and released her debut special, Catholic Cowgirl, in late 2024. $28–36.50; 7 and 9:45 p.m. Friday, 6 and 8:45 p.m. Saturday; Springfield Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER November 27–December 13

Enjoy a holiday tradition beloved by many generations. Based on the eponymously named animated TV special and adapted from the Robert L. May story, this Christmastime classic needs no introduction. The G-rated production runs about 90 minutes and is great for kids of all ages. $28–57; various showtimes; The Landers Theatre, 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield BRANSON CHRISTKINDLMARKT November 27–December 23 (weekends)

Step into an Old World-style holiday market filled with festive vendor stalls, European food and drinks such as Hungarian chimney cakes, one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts and a distinct festive ambiance. Admission is free! Thursday–Sunday except Thanksgiving Day; times vary by the day; 4562 Gretna Rd., Branson

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P H O TO C O U R T E SY E X P L O R E B R A N S O N

WINTER PROFILES

When you think “Winter Vacation,” picture Branson! Whether you’re into festive shows, thrilling adventures or cozy attractions, Branson has something special to offer. This guide will help you discover the magic of Branson during the winter months!

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BEHOLD THE GREATEST GIFT: MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS Travel back in time this holiday season to witness one of the most beloved Bible stories ever told live on stage. MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS is an original stage production by Sight & Sound Theatres® that follows Mary and Joseph, and their faithful journey to Bethlehem. From the angels sharing the good news with the lowly shepherds, to the wise men following a star to see the Messiah—you too will want to make the journey to Sight & Sound Theatres for this ultimate celebration.

with a relatable message of hope for every guest, regardless of background or familiarity with the Bible. This miraculous story is a shared reminder of the greatest gift given to us all. Celebrate Ozark Mount ain Christma s w ith Sight & Sound Theatres in Branson, MO, and reserve your seat for this unforgettable show November 3rd–December 31st!

Experience this timeless story as it unfolds all around you. With a 300-foot wraparound stage, a cast of 50 performers, and dozens of live animals, every moment is brought to life in an unforgettable way. From your seat, you will feel like a fellow traveler alongside Mary and Joseph as camels, donkeys, horses, and sheep make their way down the aisles. Don’t miss your chance to gather the family together to experience the wonder of the season. MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS is a spectacular production

BOOK EARLY. BOOK DIRECT. SIGHT-SOUND.COM

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Experience the splendor of the season at Sight & Sound Theatres.

SIGHT & SOUND

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800-377-1277 SIGHT-SOUND.COM 1001 SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS EXPY., BRANSON

Behold the Greatest Gift: MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS. WHAT TO SEE

Travel back in time this holiday season to witness one of the most beloved Bible stories ever told live on stage. MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS is an original stage production by Sight & Sound Theatres®

that follows Mary and Joseph and their faithful journey to Bethlehem. From the angels sharing the good news with the lowly shepherds to the wise men following a star to see the Messiah. You, too, will want to make the journey to Sight & Sound Theatres for this ultimate celebration. DON’T MISS

Mary and Joseph as camels, donkeys, horses and sheep make their way down the aisles. Don’t miss your chance to gather the family together to experience the wonder of the season. MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS is a spectacular production with a relatable message of hope for every guest, regardless of background or familiarity with the Bible. This miraculous story is a shared reminder of the greatest gift given to us all. Celebrate Ozark Mountain Christmas with Sight & Sound Theatres® in Branson, MO, and reserve your seat for this unforgettable show from November 3 through December 31! 417MAG.COM

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SILVER DOLLAR CITY 417-336-7100 SILVERDOLLARCITY.COM 399 SILVER DOLLAR CITY PKWY., BRANSON

Ready, Set, Glow! Have Yourself an Old Time Christmas WHEN TO GO

Jingle all the way to Silver Dollar City for An Old Time Christmas®, eight-time winner of USA TODAY’s “Best Theme Park Holiday Event,” running November 7 through January 2.

WHAT TO SEE

The City shines brighter than ever with more than 6.5 million lights, Broadway-style shows, and the brand-new Stars, Lights & Christmas Nights Parade™, featuring Rudolph and friends. The holiday journey begins with Joy On Town Square, an eight-story Christmas tree light-and-sound spectacular that’s merry enough to brighten spirits. Then stroll through Christmas in Midtown®, where 145 miles of brilliant bulbs glitter, glow and illuminate nearly every building in sight. DON’T MISS

Broadway-style productions bring beloved

holiday stories to life including A Dickens’ Christmas Carol, a festive take on the Charles Dickens classic, featuring elaborate sets and special effects. High-kicking fun takes center stage at the Silver Dollar Saloon with Frontier Fa-La-La Follies. Marvel at Tinker Junior’s Toy Shop, featuring a 12-foot talking tree, or immerse yourself in the miracle of Christmas at the Living Nativity. Hop aboard the Frisco SingAlong Steam Train, or catch up with Santa for a photo and a holiday experience you’ll never forget. Warm up with wassail, hot chocolate and apple cider and a wide array of holiday treats.

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Christmas lights bring Fireman’s Landing to life at Silver Dollar City, filling the park with holiday cheer.

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Guests can also sample seasonal favorites throughout The City with a Christmas Tasting Ticket. Find the full calendar and more information at silverdollarcity.com or on the Silver Dollar City app.

THE KEETER CENTER 417-239-1900 KEETERCENTER.EDU 1 OPPORTUNITY AVE. POINT LOOKOUT

The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks offers visitors the perfect destination to celebrate the season. From fine dining and handcrafted desserts to cozy overnight stays with campus exploration, there’s plenty to discover during your visit. Every detail reflects the College’s tradition of student-made excellence, making The Keeter Center a memorable stop for experiencing the best of the Ozarks this fall.

WHAT’S NEW

From campus-raised meats and garden-fresh produce to Student-Made jellies and cornmeal, The Keeter Center’s new fall menu showcases the flavors, traditions and craftsmanship of the College of the Ozarks and its Hard Work U. legacy. Among the highlights from the Butcher Block is the campus-raised bone-in pork chop, served over miso mashed sweet potatoes, accompanied by apple butter brussels sprouts, and finished with warm sage butter. Also gracing the table is their Pan-Fried Walleye, coated in a delicate cornmeal crust and paired with Boursin mashed potatoes, fresh asparagus and a drizzle of lemon aioli. To conclude the experience, indulge in the gluten-free Carrot Cake, decadently layered with orange gelée and silky carrot crémeux, creating a memorable finish to an unforgettable meal. DON’T MISS

Before you leave The Keeter Center, treat yourself to a sweet indulgence from our Bakery and College Creamery. Enjoy an

assortment of freshly baked pastries, handcrafted spritzers and gourmet coffees. The Creamery features house-churned gelatos, rich custards made with milk from the College’s own dairy herd, and refreshing seasonal sorbets. With 12 distinctive flavors to choose from, many guests choose to enjoy their favorite flavor in a warm, homemade waffle cone, whose irresistible aroma welcomes guests the moment they step through the doors. WHAT TO SEE

During your visit to The Keeter Center, take time to explore Hard Work U. Pick up a Visitor’s Guide and discover the many places across campus that make College of the Ozarks so unique. From the Ralph Foster Museum and the Stained Glass & Candle Shop to Patriots Park and beyond, each stop tells a story of student craftsmanship, Ozarks heritage and purposeful education. Spend an afternoon exploring the 1,000-acre campus and discover what makes this place so special. Then, end your journey with

P H O TO C O U R T E SY T H E K E E T E R C E N T E R

The Keeter Center serves up a decadent Chocolate Truffle Tart for a sweet finish to any meal.

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a visit to The Keeter Center Gift Shop, where you can take home a piece of the College’s mission through the collection of StudentMade Products.

show. As Branson’s longest-running and favorite drive-through Christmas lights attraction, it transforming the Shepherd of the Hills into a sparkling holiday wonderland.

SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS 417-334-4191 THESHEPHERDOFTHEHILLS.COM 5585 W 76 COUNTRY BLVD., BRANSON

WHEN TO GO

DON’T MISS

Make the holiday season a little more magical at Shepherd of the Hills with the North Pole Adventure, the newest addition to the Christmas lineup. Families can also take a hayride through the Trail of Lights, creating a festive experience for all ages.

TIP

Turn your visit into a new family tradition by pairing the Trail of Lights with a holiday dinner show. It’s the perfect way to make a night of your Christmas outing and experience more of what Branson does best: great entertainment, good food and holiday fun.

WHAT TO SEE

The Trail of Lights is the star of the

Where the wonder of Christmas becomes a family tradition OVER 30+ FESTIVE ACTIVITIES INCLUDING: Lighted Hayrides

Santa’s Workshop

Treetop Sky Trail

Treehouses

Snow Tube Slides

Mini Golf

Inspiration Tower

Lil Pete’s Net-Venture

ALSO INCLUDES! The Amazing Kids Show - Saturdays & Sundays at 10:00am

BUY TICKETS AT www.SHEPHERD.fun 46

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AND MORE!

Festive Christmas lights illuminate Santa’s Workshop at Shepherd of the Hills, spreading holiday cheer.

P H OTO C O U R T E SY S H E P H E R D O F T H E H I L L S

Plan a visit on a weekend in November or December to experience Shepherd of the Hills at its most festive. The holiday season brings lights, activities and plenty of opportunities to make memories with the whole family.

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Silver Dollar City’s towering Christmas tree dazzles visitors with a spectacular display of lights against the night sky.

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TheLongWay WHERE TO WANDER

U.S. History Meets Ozarks Landscapes At Wilson’s Creek, the site of southwest Missouri’s only National Park, you can explore a historic Civil War battlefield and find scenic greenways that are perfect for a fall walk.

P H O TO C O U R T E SY V I S I T S P R I N G F I E L D M I S S O U R I

BY ALYSSA RONEY

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The Long Way

ilson’s creek is a visitor highlight for southwest Missouri, but it is sometimes overlooked by those of us who call the area home. The site of a greenway trail and a Civil War battlefield, Wilson’s Creek provides both a harrowing look into history and an idyllic escape from city life. Whether you’re bringing your family along for a bike ride and picnic or wish to soak in the knowledge of the Tour Road, Wilson’s Creek is the perfect way to spend a day in nature before things get too chilly.

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Step Into History The Battle of Wilson’s Creek occurred on August 10, 1861, shortly after the First Battle of Bull Run on July 21. It began in the early morning with an offensive Union strategy by Gen. Nathaniel Lyon and Col. Franz Sigel, in which their forces attacked Confederate forces who had been encamped at Wilson’s Creek. Confederate troops later attacked Lyon’s positions on Bloody Hill, failing to break the line, but mortally wounding Lyon in the process. After Confederate troops overran Sigel, heavy casualties and low ammunition

forced Union forces to retreat. The nearby civilian farmhouse of John Ray was commissioned by Confederate forces and turned into a makeshift field hospital, wherein the body of Lyon would lie. The Ray House, like other important battle locations, is accessible from Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield’s Tour Road, a 4.9-mile paved loop. Here, you can walk where soldiers once marched and even visit, by foot, a natural sinkhole used as a temporary gravesite. As the site of the second major Civil War battle, Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield is

P H O TO S C O U R T E SY V I S I T S P R I N G F I E L D M I S S O U R I

Wildlife abounds along the trails, while visitors can explore the historic battlefield (right).

Visitor center displays (left) and battle reenactments bring Wilson’s Creek’s history to life (below).

the only National Park Service site in southwest Missouri. This means Wilson’s Creek receives upkeep from the U.S. federal government, which recognizes its significance. The Battle of Wilson’s Creek, though a Southern tactical victory, shed light on Missouri’s important and often overlooked strategic role in the Trans-Mississippi Theater of the Civil War. It was, after all, a border state with critical agricultural products and natural resources like lead and iron ore. Also Check Out After seeing the battlefield for yourself with the Tour Road, step inside the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Visitor Center to see its museum collection and watch the film The Struggle for Missouri Begins, which features reenactors at the actual battlefield site. Kids can join the Junior Ranger program by completing a booklet at Wilson’s Creek

National Battlefield, which they can cash in at the visitor center for a badge. Go For a Brisk (But Not Brisk) Walk Although Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield has its own trail, you’ll want to follow the creek northward in your vehicle to Tal’s Trailhead/Wilson’s Creek Greenway Trail if you’re up for a peaceful fall hike. The 11.8-mile out-and-back trail will take you from the trailhead all the way to Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park. The trail is home to oak trees, ensuring your walking or biking experience is infused with plenty of fall colors, along with sycamores and cottonwoods, creekside views, open meadows and native prairie grasses. You may be lucky and see some whitetail deer! For information about parking and points of interest, visit the Ozark Greenways website. 417MAG.COM

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EN ROUTE

Make a Day of Your Drive to Columbia Though the final destination may hold the energy of a Mizzou football game, the drive to Columbia can be just as exciting. B Y J U LI ANA G O O DW I N

here’s a saying about travel: It’s not the destination but the journey that counts. Well, if you’re headed to Columbia this fall, don’t just drive straight through; explore attractions on the way. Here are some of our

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suggestions, from quick pit stops to places Cookie lovers must pull over for Ozark worth lingering over. This route starts on Cookie Company in Camdenton (58 E. U.S. I-44 to Lebanon and then through U.S. 54 Highway 54). Owner Allison Bass, a mom and U.S. 63. and professional baker, is known for her For your first sugar fix, Redmon’s Candy gourmet cookies. The best sellers are caramel Factory (330 Pine St.) is right off I-44 in butter pecan and lemon crumb cake. Phillipsburg and houses hundreds of varietAlso in Camdenton, but a little bit of a deies of candy. There are bins of nostalgic treats tour, is Bridal Cave & Thunder Mountain and a case full of house-made chocolates and Park (526 Bridal Cave Road), a beautiful fudge. I used to stop there when I was a kid! cave that has hosted thousands of wedWarning: If too many choices cause you anxdings. It has sweeping curtains of stalactites iety, you might want to skip it. throughout the cave system and crystal-clear Inside the Lebanon-Laclede County blue waters at spots. Admission is $30 (for Library is the free Lebanon Route 66 Muages 12 and up). After the tour, there’s a short seum (915 S Jefferson Ave.) It’s a quick stop hiking trail to explore or take in views of with a self-guided tour of local Lake of the Ozarks. history, including replicas of a Once you hit Osage Beach, gas station and jukebox, a diner you’re roughly halfway there. Clockwise from top and local photos. It only takes left: Visit the state This is a great time to grab capitol, sip local 15 minutes, and it’s a nice way lunch. For the best views of the wine, explore the to stretch your legs or expose lake, you can eat at JB Hooks or Route 66 Museum, the kiddos to history. and tour a cave. Baxter’s Lakeside Grille. At JB

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Hooks (2260 Bagnell Dam Blvd.), stand-out lunch options include their creamy salmon bisque and a chicken salad sandwich. The patio is often available on Sundays and has gorgeous lake views and a more casual vibe. Baxter’s Lakeside Grille (2124 Bagnell Dam Blvd.) has a selection of lunch salads if you want something light, and the seared ahi salad is delicious. Larger entrees include Cajun shrimp pasta or cedar plank salmon. Get there when they open at 11:30 a.m. or make reservations since it’s a popular spot. Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City (115 Lafayette St.) is definitely worth a stop, and it’s located right by the Highway 63 split. It was fully operational from 1836 to 2004 and now offers tours. You’ll learn about former prisoners such as gang members, train robbers and even the man who assassinated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. They have history tours, as well as ghosts and paranormal tours for people 14 and older. History tours are for ages 6 and older. Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City (330 Commerce Drive) is great for kids. They have trails, an aquarium and a nature viewing area. Kiddos can see turtles and amphibians and have a break on the last stretch of your journey. There’s also a 60-foot fire tower that you can climb for panoramic views. The Missouri State Capitol (201 W Capitol Ave.) is also worth a stop. It’s beautiful inside and includes a large mural by Missouri native Thomas Hart Benton. Built on a bluff overlooking the Missouri River, it includes a ground floor museum with rotating exhibits. There are 45-minute free guided tours on the weekend. From the Capitol, it’s an easy walk to the Governor’s Mansion (100 Madison St.), which has stunning grounds. The last stop is a detour, but it’s worth it. Go 15 minutes out of your way to visit Rocheport, a charming city with antique shops and wineries. The Rocheport Winery at Mount Nebo Inn (801 1st St.) produces sparkling wines and carries a large variety of wines from around the world. They received an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator Magazine in 2024. There’s also a restaurant on site. Then, Les Bourgeois Vineyard (12847 W. Highway Bb) is well known for its wine and scenery. Overlooking the Missouri River, they have a Winegarden, tasting room and food options.

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DETOUR

Bottoms Up Bella Patina is just the beginning of a treasure-filled day exploring the vintage shops, food trucks and curiosities of Kansas City’s West Bottoms. B Y J O R D AN BLOM QUIST

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n august, i visited the granddaddy of all antique stores. A collector’s dream. The Super Bowl of treasure hunting. The holy grail of vintage stores. I went to Bella Patina in Kansas City! Bella Patina is a three-story antique store in the West Bottoms of KC, open only on first Friday weekends. They have everything there—and I mean everything. It can be overwhelming for someone not used to

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The Long Way

P H O TO S C O U R T E SY B E L L A PAT I N A

scanning through antiques. stores like Serendipity, The You can come in looking for Robin’s Nest, Martin’s MemFind a little bit of history one particular thing and leave ories, Treasures on 13th among the vinwondering how you suddenand The Mystery Box. Food tage treasures at ly acquired a vintage lamp, trucks and stands line the Bella Patina in Kansas City. three history books and a streets on busy weekends, ceramic rooster. with tacos, Middle Eastern Antique hunting in K.C. is cuisine and K.C. barbecue. a little different compared to shopping I had one of the most refreshing tropical for vintage finds in the Ozarks in that lemonades while I strolled. the prices are a little higher, but you By the time I left the West Bottoms, I could come across items you might not had seen more vintage treasures than I find here, like more Chiefs gear from the could possibly remember, eaten some’70s or Midwest advertising memorabilthing delicious and found plenty of things ia. Some pieces are beautiful, some are I definitely didn’t need (but that I’ll be quirky and some just make you wonder thinking about for the foreseeable fuwhat their story might be. ture). The best part is that no two shops With Bella Patina being open only one feel quite the same, and you never know weekend a month, you better bring your what might be waiting around the next wallets and your patience, because the corner. Sounds like a pretty good Saturplace will be packed with other shoppers day to me. who also waited all month to visit the DETOUR antique mecca. The West Bottoms Bella Patina itself is well worth the day trip, but it’s really the area surrounding the vintage monster that seals the deal. Good JuJu is another store with treasures open only the first Friday and Saturday of each month. They’ve also been voted Kansas City’s Best Antique and Vintage Store three times. It is easy to lose an hour here without realizing it, especially when every booth seems to provide another reason to stop and look. In the same area are more antique

Take the Scenic Route On the way home from Kansas City, take a little detour to YaYa’s Alpaca Farm. Tour the farm, meet the alpacas and spend some time petting and feeding these fluffy residents. After a busy day of treasure hunting in the West Bottoms, a little alpaca time might be exactly the reset you need. I bet you never thought you’d hear that. 417MAG.COM

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PROMOTION

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COSMETIC PROFILES

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Dr. Connor Barnes, Dr. Lynn M. Frydrych, Dr. Robert Shaw

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he Center for Plastic Surgery at CoxHealth was founded on the belief that aging is a treatable condition, not a foregone conclusion. Their approach to slowing, preventing and even reversing the signs of aging involves early detection and appropriate intervention, combining state-of-the-art plastic surgery with scientifically proven anti-aging therapeutics and products. The Center for Plastic Surgery is dedicated to providing patients with individualized and effective plans. While ensuring the highest quality results, they strive to make your experience comfortable, convenient and effective. They offer a range of services including body sculpting, facial prosthetic procedures and breast surgery for reshaping, resizing and reconstruction. The doctors at The Center for Plastic Surgery have more than 50 years of combined experience. Dr. Shaw is an international expert on facial aging and cosmetic surgery; Dr. Barnes has trained with world-renowned plastic surgeons and

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Center for Plastic Surgery is proud to welcome Dr. Bossert

takes a primary care approach; and Dr. Frydrych has completed the nation’s most prestigious body contouring fellowship. We welcome Dr. Bossert to the practice, bringing extensive training and expertise in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Ronald P. Bossert is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, specializing in general reconstructive plastic surgery as well as aesthetic plastic surgery of the body and face, with a particular expertise in plastic surgery following weight loss. After graduating cum laude from Haverford College with a biology degree, Dr. Bossert earned his medical degree from the University of Rochester and was among fewer than 100 graduates nationwide selected for integrated plastic surgery training. After residency, he completed a fellowship in post-weight-loss

body contouring at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He spent eight years at the University of Rochester as a plastic surgeon, directing the Life After Weight Loss Program and training future surgeons as residency program director. After entering private practice in Charleston, South Carolina, in 2020, he was recruited to join the group of talented plastic surgeons at CoxHealth in Springfield in 2026. With his background in both aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, he is well-equipped to offer a wide range of plastic surgery services to the community. He is joined by his wife and two children, all of whom are excited to call Springfield home. The Center for Plastic Surgery is excited to welcome its newest partner, Dr. Ronald P. Bossert.

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SHAH PLASTIC SURGERY Dr. Bharat Shah

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r. Bharat Shah is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of surgical experience. At his Springfield practice, Shah offers facial and body rejuvenation in a private, boutique setting. At the forefront of his facial rejuvenation practice is the VERA Lift Premium Facelift Experience—an individualized approach that brings together advanced facelift concepts and techniques developed by leading surgeons around the world. Rather than relying on a single operation, the VERA philosophy allows Dr. Shah to tailor treatment to each patient’s anatomy, degree of aging and aesthetic goals. Advanced options include deep-plane facelift techniques, deep-plane neck lifting, endoscopic brow and midface lifting, facial fat grafting and complementary nonsurgical technologies. These techniques are designed to address the face and neck comprehensively while emphasizing natural contours, balanced rejuvenation and results that remain authentic to the individual. The Premium Facelift Experience extends beyond the procedure itself, combining personalized surgical planning with concierge-level care, thoughtfully selected postoperative treatments and an ongoing approach to maintaining results. Dr. Shah’s commitment to innovation and patient satisfaction continues to define Shah Plastic Surgery as a destination for patients seeking sophisticated facial rejuvenation and an elevated surgical experience.

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SHAH PLASTIC SURGERY

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417-887-3223 VOS-BEAUTY.COM 1965 S. FREMONT, SUITE 120, SPRINGFIELD

xperience matters—but so do you. “Vos” is Latin for “you,” which is a reflection of their commitment to understanding your unique story and tailoring care to your features, goals and sense of self. Dr. Kienstra and the team at Vos bring specialized training and years of experience in facial aesthetics to every patient’s care. From rhinoplasty, facelifts, eyelid surgery, brow lifts and otoplasty to laser resurfacing and photo rejuvenation, we offer personalized options to help you feel confident in your own skin. Whether you’re addressing signs of aging, refining a feature or seeking more luminous skin your journey begins with a conversation. Call Vos to discover natural beauty that’s uniquely you.

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At Home

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Made for Family Blending the rugged beauty of Texas Hill Country with the clean lines of Spanish modern design, this new home was created as a welcoming retreat for family, connection and laid-back living. B Y HE AT HE R KOHL E R PHOT OG R A PHE D B Y S TA R B O A R D & P ORT

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At Home

hen david and Adeana Chrestman met with Jason Bekebrede, owner of Homes by Monticello (211 S. Union Ave. #H, Springfield; 417-416-4497), they had a lot of ideas of what they were looking for in their dream home. The couple knew they wanted Texas Hill Country style along with Spanish-modern influences. David, who is from New Mexico originally, was drawn to Spanish architecture and finishes that reminded him of home. And because he had spent time in Texas when

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Large windows welcome guests (left) in this house with a luxurious, but not formal kitchen (right), and with moody spaces (below).

he was stationed there in the army, he was influenced by the Texas Hill Country style as well. Soon into the planning phase of their home, the team decided to bring in Erica Lea Design Studios (380 E. State Hwy. CC, Ste D105, Nixa; 417-731-4086), with Crystal Spriggs acting as lead designer on the project, to help pull their vision together. Statement moments were designed for the home, bringing that big Texas feeling into the plan with large windows and a front door that welcomes you in. The exterior got a special treatment along with stucco to give it the texture the homeowners were looking for. “We did it a little different,” Bekebrede

says. “We used rock wool behind the stucco. It allows things to still drain, but it also adds insulation and has a lot of other benefits.” The architectural details inside the home are also Spanish influenced. Corbels and archways add just the right amount of interest. Tall ceilings and dark beams draw your eye up, and a large fireplace creates a beautiful focal point when you first walk into the space. “One of my favorite features of the home is the beams in living room,” Bekebrede says. The main living areas are open concept, allowing for ultimate family time watching football together with the couple’s two

teenage boys, 17-year-old Trevin Brewer and 15-year-old Tate Brewer. “We’re a very busy family,” says Adeana, who is a volleyball coach in Ozark and is a sports lover herself. “We want to cherish our family time.” David’s favorite feature of the home is a 16-foot sliding glass door that connects the living room to the back patio, where they spend a lot of time watching TV, listening to music and having a glass of wine on the weekends. In the boys’ wing on one side of the home, each has his own space to hang out with friends, play video games or focus on schoolwork. On the other side of the house is where David and Adeana get to unwind 417MAG.COM

NOVEMBER 2026

At Home

and relax. “My husband is really into wine and whiskey, so we have a wine room,” Adeana says. Small areas of the home make great places to retreat, and moody colors create an earthy vibe that’s true to Texas Hill Country style. The primary bedroom has beautiful views of the trees outside and mimics serene Ozarks landscapes with 66

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its beautiful toile bedding and draperies. Perhaps Adeana’s favorite room in the house is the primary bathroom. A mural makes the space feel cozy, and brass fixtures bring everything together. “It just feels like a spa,” she says. “It has a clean feel that I love.” Spriggs, along with the rest of the team, helped bring a lot of the couple’s wish list

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Cozy primary bedroom retreat (left) and David and Adeana Chrestman (below left).

“We really tried to balance the feminine and masculine.” —Crystal Spriggs

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to fruition. “The Chrestmans said yes to a lot of the things we presented to them, which helped make the project successful,” Spriggs says. “We repeated materials throughout the home and kept the color palette consistent to make everything feel cohesive.” Terracotta, dark wood, natural elements and earth tones are carried throughout the home, with their earthy palette woven into textiles, patterns and wallpaper. Adeana says she would never have thought to incorporate wallpaper, yet it helped elevate the spaces. Smaller rooms were made darker, creating moody moments, and even the laundry room was treated as a space that should feel elevated but still carefree. “We really tried to balance the feminine and masculine,” Spriggs says. “Especially in the primary bedroom, we wanted things to feel light and bright.” Making the home feel serene was the easy part; with beautiful views, the outside really feels like part of the inside. Striking a balance between creating beautiful spaces and also making things feel comfortable was important to the family. “It all feels luxurious, but it’s not formal,” Adeana says. “I think the project was so successful because, honestly, it was a great team,” Bekebrede says. “With Erica’s team and the homeowners and us, everyone worked really well together, and it made the process easy for everybody.” Just like the Chrestmans wished for, their new home captures all the elements of Texas Hill Country style: a harmonious blend of rustic warmth, understated luxury and a welcoming atmosphere, all while being rooted in nature.

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ARTFUL SPACES

The Buzz About Beeswax Natural beeswax food wraps offer a reusable alternative to plastic wrap, whether you make your own or opt for a ready-made set. BY HE ATHER KOHLER

here are a lot of reasons beeswax wraps have grown in popularity over the years. They’re reusable and biodegradable, and many are made with all natural materials—no microplastics here! They make wonderful gifts (pair them with a fresh loaf of sourdough), and they’re just so much prettier than plastic wrap or stained Tupperware. Beeswax wraps can be made at home. You just need the right materials and a little patience. Tara Wolf, owner of The Wild Ozarks (linktr.ee/thewildozarks) started making them in her home kitchen and now sells her food wraps and bread bags (along with her small-batch soaps) at the Nixa Farmers Market (113 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa) and other festivals in the area. Wolf spent a lot of time in hospitals after her older daughter was born with special 68

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needs. Soon, she began to gravitate to natural and organic products and started to connect back to nature on the 20 acres she calls home just outside Nixa. “I was looking for products that would last for more than just a few uses,” Wolf says. “Not a lot of things are made to last. We have too much trash.” Wolf did a lot of research to find the right materials, and she strongly encourages seeking out the best quality beeswax that you can find “The beeswax I use is local,” Wolf says. White or yellow waxes both work—just know the yellow can add color to the fabric. In addition to local beeswax, Wolf uses 100% organic pine resin to add cling and tackiness. As for the cloth, she sources fabric scraps from her mother—always opting for 100% cotton. After you’ve sourced materials, it’s time to get started.

1. Start by cutting fabric squares using pinking shears. It’s up to you what sizes you choose to make. Smaller wraps make great jar covers, and larger ones can cover whole bowls or loaves of bread. 2. Then in a slow cooker or a double boiler, melt ½ cup of beeswax before mixing in ½ cup of pine resin and 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil. Be sure to use an old spoon that you’re not too attached to—it will get sticky! This much mixture should be enough to make six to eight medium-size wraps. 3. Lay your fabric in a single layer on a cookie sheet lined with parchment, then brush the wax mixture over the fabric, covering it completely. Place cookie sheets in a 300°F oven for 3-4 minutes, then flip the fabric and brush additional wax on areas that aren’t saturated. Put back in the oven for another 3 minutes and then hang to dry with small clips. Wolf recommends setting aside a full day to really practice and make a mess without any distractions. “The stuff splatters, so they can be quite messy,” Wolf says. “I do it all in my home kitchen. My husband isn’t too happy about it!” Wolf sells bundles of three food wraps and her bread bags for $20 each and feels grateful for the opportunity to help create items that contribute to a more environmentally friendly lifestyle. Wolf ’s food and bread bags also come with recharging pucks to help get the most longevity from your wraps. “Over time you may find a spot that’s a little worn down,” Wolf says. “You just rub the recharge on the spot.” When using your wraps, be sure to let your food cool completely, as anything too warm can melt the wax. Wash your wraps in cold water as well. “I wash them in cold soapy water, rinse and then air dry,” Wolf says. Be sure to follow The Wild Ozarks on Facebook for updates on new product drops and new market appearances this season.

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Tara Wolf makes beeswax wraps in her home kitchen and shares how to do it.

RECIPE

Bo Brown’s Acorn Persimmon or Pawpaw Thumbprint Cookies IN THE GARDEN / BY HE ATHE R KOHL E R

From Park Trail to Pantry Acorns aren’t just food for squirrels. With a little foraging know-how and preparation, these abundant Ozarks nuts can become a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.

n many cultures the acorn is considered a symbol of luck, and it’s even believed that if you keep an acorn on your windowsill it will protect your home. It’s not hard to believe in the mighty power of a tiny acorn, the seed or fruit of great oaks, which are plentiful in the rolling hills of the Ozarks. It’s wild to think that some oak trees like the white oak can live more than 600 years. Just let that sink in. Oh, the stories these trees could tell, and the secrets they hold. Speaking of secrets, perhaps one of their best kept secrets is that their tiny acorns may just be one of the most underutilized sources of food that grow in the Ozarks without having to be farmed. A simple stroll through the park or your yard could yield tasty acorns that could be used in a variety of ways. Everyone knows what an acorn looks like, but few realize the opportunities this little nut holds. Many local foragers like Bo Brown, a wilderness survival instructor and author of Foraging the Ozarks, collect acorns after their big fall (usually in October) and then prep, dry and crack the acorns to turn into acorn flour. There are two types of acorns. One belongs to the red oak, the other to the white oak. White acorns have round edges, while red have sharp points, says local forager and author Rachael West. “White are sweeter as they’re on the tree less time,” she adds. Both types are edible and nutritious. “Acorns contain 18 different amino acids, including all

nine required to sustain life,” Brown says. “They store well, and they are free for the taking.” You can easily gather acorns by hand, ensuring you’re only collecting the healthy ones. Discard any acorn with dark spots or holes, or ones that are small with their caps still attached. There are grubs that love acorns, and you can usually tell if a grub is in the acorn because it feels lighter and floats in water. But don’t let that deter you from collecting acorns! To prepare acorns for cooking, the process is pretty in-depth; however, you don’t need any fancy tools. Brown insists that the long processing time is offset by their easy collection, high protein and fat content, and long storage life. The process involves drying and cracking nuts, removing shells, removing the brown skin (testa) and then removing the bitterness from the nuts, also known as leaching tannins. There are several methods for leaching tannins, but all of them reveal the nut’s sweet flavor. The taste should resemble something like a nutty maple syrup. From there, homesteaders and foragers usually make acorn flour that can be used in breads, pancakes and even cookies. Want to learn more about harvesting and processing acorns? Check out Bo Brown’s second edition of Foraging the Ozarks, set to be released next year. Or check his calendar on bobrownforaging.com for his acorn and persimmon processing programs at Finley Farms (802 Finley Farms Ln., Ozark; 417-210-6644).

Ingredients ½ cup persimmon or pawpaw pulp, plus extra for the finished cookie ½ cup oil or unsalted butter, melted ⅓ cup pure maple syrup 1 egg 1 cup cold-leached acorn flour, sifted ¼ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar ¼ teaspoon pink or sea salt ¼ teaspoon ground spicebush berries or cinnamon To Prepare 1. Heat oven to 325°F. 2. Mix pulp, melted butter, maple syrup, and egg for about 1 minute with an electric mixer. 3. Combine dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Slowly add dry to wet ingredients and mix on medium until fully combined. Place cookie dough in fridge for 2 hours or overnight until completely chilled. 4. Remove chilled dough from the fridge and roll into a log about 3 inches thick, then cut into ½” thick cookies. Place evenly spaced on a foil/parchment-covered cookie sheet and make an indentation in each with a rounded handle or your thumb. 5. Bake for 14–20 minutes or until desired texture is achieved; use the lower end for a soft, chewy cookie. Fill the indentation with paw/persimmon pulp or jelly. 417MAG.COM

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TRUE OZARKS ADVENTURES

What does it take to know a place well enough to call yourself a native—to be a true 417-lander? We put together 10 adventurous itineraries that will give you a glimpse into all the best of the Ozarks. Do them all, and we’d say you’re a tried-and-true Ozarker. Best part: We did the planning for you, so you can just get out there and have fun! WRIT T E N B Y K AT IE P OL L OC K E S T E S ILLUS T R AT ION S B Y S Y D N E Y A R LT

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THE GREAT OZARKS FLOAT TRIP Who it’s for: River rats and outdoor adventurers Time commitment: Two and a half days Must pack: Dry bag, sunscreen, river snacks

dle into!), Rainbow Spring and The Falls. The Falls are a famous little bundle of rock ledges that form mini rapids right in front of River of Life Farm. (That means when you see the resort coming up on your right side, get ready to face The Falls.) They look deceptively tame—but many a floater has flipped a canoe when they approached them at just the wrong angle. Crossing The Falls is a rite of passage.

Day 1: 10 a.m.: Float Hammond Mill to Sunburst Ranch Your outfitter for the day is Sunburst Ranch (sunburstranchcanoe.com). Along this stretch of the North Fork, you’ll pass by Blue Spring (which you can pad-

1 p.m.: Stop for Lunch Keep your eye open for a gravel bar where you can pull your kayak or canoe over and break for a midday meal. You’ll want to pack this in yourself—there’s nowhere to dine along this 7-mile float.

5 p.m.: Rest Your Head After finishing the second half of your float, head to River of Life Farm. It’s located directly on the water (remember The Falls?) and is home to treehouse cabins with river and forest views. Day 2: 8 a.m.: Cast a Line Before you leave River of Life Farm, head down to the water for some fly fishing. Parts of the North Fork are known as a Blue Ribbon Trout Area, so you’re sure to make a catch.

On the North Fork of White River, choose to canoe your way down the river (left) or cool down in Althea Spring (above).

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Noon: You’re Floating Again, Folks! The North Fork is so nice, we’re suggesting it twice. But there’s a good reason for that. Today you’ll be floating a shorter leg of the stream, from Blair Bridge to Dawt Mill, with Dawt Mill Resort (dawtmill.com) as your outfitter for the day. This part of the river is home to Althea Spring, which you can easily access via a short trail on the left side of the river immediately after you pass Patrick Bridge. Enjoy the view, or brave the cold water and jump in. 5 p.m.: Enjoy the Mill Because this float ends at Dawt Mill, your dinner plans are a no-brainer. Grab a bite from the Beach Bar to eat beside the river before you check in to a cozy cabin for the night to rest after your day on the water.

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pring-fed waterways and crystal-clear streams crisscross the Ozarks, and you’re missing out if you haven’t hopped in a kayak to explore them. Let’s change that! We’ll start with the North Fork of the White River, a waterway known for trout fishing, cold springs and memorable scenic views.

If you book a guided cruise on State Park Marina’s Spirit of America catamaran, you get access to fun inflatables too.

THE ULTIMATE TABLE ROCK LAKE WEEKEND Who it’s for: Lake loungers and yacht rockers Time commitment: Two days Must pack: Swimsuit, sunscreen, your floaty of choice

T P H O TO C O U R T E SY S TAT E PA R K M A R I N A

he ozarks is home to numerous lakes—bull Shoals with its scenic bluffs, Taneycomo with its chilly water and Stockton with its sailboats, to name a few. But the big mama, the must-visit, the one everyone recognizes as The Lake is Table Rock. With shores protected by the U.S. Corps of Engineers, it remains a little wild and ferociously beautiful. Yet there is still so much to do there. Whether you enjoy it for a single day or are lucky enough to have a cottage of your own, you know you’re in for a good time when Table Rock Lake is on the agenda. Here is one way (of many ways!) to spend a weekend on the lake. Day 1: 8 a.m.: Start With Breakfast Pop into Ma’s Place in Kimberling City to start your day with comfort food, like chicken fried steak or a crisp Belgian waffle. 9 a.m.: Boat All Day Rent your leisure vessel of choice from Port of Kimberling Marina, and start exploring on the water. This is your chance to cove out, find some adventure (try The Swings near Shell Knob for a little bluff jumping) or simply bob in the water with a cold drink.

Noon: Boat-In for Lunch If you happened to find your way to The Swings near lunchtime, make a stop at the Shell Knob Pizza Hut. You can park the boat at their dock and enjoy a retro experience—the decor is true old-school Pizza Hut.

10 a.m.: Hike With a View Continue down Missouri Route 265 to Table Rock Lake State Park, and hike the Table Rock Lake Shore Trail. At over 4 miles, it’s not short, but it is an easy one that should only take a couple of hours. The payoff: lake views along the way.

6 p.m.: Eat and Rest After boating the afternoon away, check in to Still Waters Resort on Indian Point. Bonus here: In addition to condos with lake views, Still Waters has a shady outdoor area with food trucks, so your dinner plans are sorted.

1 p.m.: Splash and Play After you hike and find lunch, head to State Park Marina for a two-hour guided catamaran cruise on the Spirit of America. It comes with lake toys for the perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping fun.

Day 2: 8 a.m.: Rise and Dine Head down Highway 265 to Steamy Joe Cafe for coffee and stuffed French toast topped with delightful berry compote.

4 p.m.: End at Big Cedar Check in to Big Cedar Lodge for your last night. This is where you’ll get dinner too— on the water of course! Book seats for a dinner cruise aboard the Lady Liberty yacht, then hop the resort shuttle to Long Creek Marina where you’ll set sail for a meal with the best side dish: a view.

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THE MOTHER ROAD RAMBLE Who it’s for: History buffs and road warriors Time commitment: One day, one night Must pack: Sunglasses, snacks, playlist

oute 66 just feels outside of time. While your smartphone communicates with your car to blast the perfect road trip tunes via streaming app, you can glance out the window to spot 1930s-era service stations, preserved motor courts and glowing original neon signs. The Mother Road is long (2,448 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica), so this mini-trek gives you one day on the leg between Springfield and Carthage.

10 a.m.: Grab a Late Breakfast Next up is breakfast at College Street Cafe in Springfield. With its red-and-white checker board paint job and flowering window boxes, this place is stinking cute. 12 p.m.: Fuel Up on Nostalgia Continue west on Route 66 until you get to Gary’s Gay Parita in Ash Grove. The Sinclair station was built in 1934, and it has been preserved over the years into a kitsch-packed roadside stop. 1 p.m.: Time for Lunch If you visit on a Friday, head to Carthage’s Central Park for Food Truck Friday, when 20-plus food trucks convene during warm months. There’s often live music too. 3 p.m.: Stroll a Ghost Town Kill some time and stretch your legs at Red Oak II, just outside Carthage. Late artist Lowell Davis grew up in the original

Red Oak, Missouri. When he returned as an adult, it was a ghost town. So he began to purchase the buildings, move them to his Red Oak II site and restore them. Now you can walk through this empty (yet maintained!) town from another time. 5 p.m.: Dinner + Neon If you want to feel like you’re smack-dab in the 1950s, head to Iggy’s Diner, with its metallic exterior and neon sign. Although it was built in the late 1990s, it embodies the Route 66 diner vibe perfectly. 8 p.m.: Movie Under the Stars End your night at the 66 Drive-In Theatre for the ultimate nostalgic experience. You can drive home after, or spend the night in the lovingly restored Boots Court Motel, which originally opened in 1939. (This classic motor court is a must-see, even if you only drive by and don’t spend the night.) As you trek down Route 66 in the Ozarks, make a stop at Gary’s Gay Parita for lots of nostalgic memorabilia.

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9:30 a.m.: Get in the Mood Head west on St. Louis Street toward Park Central Square, so you can pass the Queen’s Gate 66 sculpture and Birthplace Plaza (home to the Ghost of the Colonial Hotel sculpture and the six-story Hitch-

hikers mural). They all commemorate Springfield’s role in the formation of Route 66.

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Explore the subterranean at Bluff Dwellers Cave (left), Lost Canyon Cave (right) and other underground hotspots.

THE JOURNEY TO THE UNDERWORLD Who it’s for: Geology nerds and brave explorers Time commitment: Three days and two nights Must pack: Back-up shoes, camera, curiosity

P H O TO S BY B R A N D O N A L M S, C O U R T E SY B I G C E D A R L O D G E

hey don’t call this place The Cave State for nothing. There are truly interesting geological reasons for our abundance of caves, but we won’t get into that now. What you want to know is how to spend a long weekend exploring them all, right? Get ready to duck down into the deep!

white stalagmites. Spooky! For the kids: There’s mini golf and a trail lined with dinosaur sculptures here too.

Day 1: Springfield/Ozark Area You can visit about two of these caves in one day, with a break for lunch in between. Pick what sounds fun to you.

Day 2: Branson Area Just like with the Springfield area caves, we think you can fit about two of these into a day without overloading your schedule. (Or maybe just one if you opt for Marvel Cave and then stick around at Silver Dollar City.)

Option 1: Fantastic Caverns Ride a Jeep-drawn tram through this true wonder. We won’t spoil it for you, but we think you’ll love the story about how the cave was first discovered. (Hint: A dog is involved.) Option 2: Crystal Cave Don’t miss the striking Ghost Room full of stark

Option 3: Smallin Civil War Cave In addition to this cave’s interesting history, you’ll be taken aback by its extra-wide and tall cave entrance. It makes for a charming forest view when you glance out from inside the dark space.

Option 1: Talking Rocks Cavern There’s a lot to do here in addition to the cave tours, like climbing to the top of a tall lookout point, playing mini golf and tackling the speleobox crawling mazes.

Option 2: Marvel Cave Tucked below Silver Dollar City, this cave tour takes you 300 feet deep into the vast expanse of a huge Cathedral Room. Option 3: Lost Canyon Cave Located at Top of the Rock, this unique experience includes a self-guided golf cart tour along the property’s scenic trail before finally arriving in the Lost Canyon Cave—which just happens to be home to The Bat Bar, where you can order a drink. Day 3: Make It a Road Trip Morning: Bluff Dwellers Cave If you trek southwest of Springfield, you can find your way to Noel, Missouri— home of the stunning Bluff Dwellers Cave. The one-hour guided tour alone is 100% worth the drive, but extra-adventurous visitors can opt for the longer Wild Cave Tour that brings you farther into the undeveloped areas of the cave—lit by headlamp alone. Afternoon: Riverside Dining On the way home, make a quick detour over to Pineville and stop for a meal at Haven 55, a little eatery on the bank of the Elk River, with comforting eats and dam waterfall views. 417MAG.COM

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The Cloud House (left) and The World’s Largest Fork (below) are both roadside musts in the Springfield area.

Who it’s for: Shenanigan seekers Time commitment: One day Must pack: Camera, car snacks, besties

re you in need of some selfie fodder? A little something to add a bit of whimsy to your day? There are a handful of public art moments and even funky roadside oddities throughout the Ozarks that are worth a visit if you happen to be passing by. With the right fun-loving friends in tow, they’d make great photo op material for your social feed too. The Cloud House Designed by artist Matthew Mazzotta, this is a work of art you can interact 76

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with. Step inside the house-like structure topped with a fiberglass cloud, sit on one of the chairs and start to rock. When you do, water will begin to pour from the cloud onto the metal roof of the structure, creating the soothing sound of rain. (Just make sure you don’t visit during a period of drought, or there might not be any collected rainwater in the underground tank that supplies the droplets.) The rain effect is delightful, and you can find it at Farmers Park in Springfield. The World’s Largest Fork This huge metal fork that skewers the ground below it has been a Springfield fixture for years. It was first designed by the ad agency Noble & Associates and located on Glenstone Avenue. Today, you can find it in Chesterfield Village. Walk to the area behind Kinetic Design + Development

and OMO Japanese Soul Food, and you’ll see it poking up out of the ground and stretching 35 feet into the air. (If you’re wondering in what way it’s the largest fork: It’s by mass, clocking in at 11 tons.) The Huge Macaroni Noodle At the Kraft Heinz plant in Springfield, there’s a swooping smile-like macaroni sculpture. Seeing it might just make you want a box of Kraft mac and cheese! You can’t get too close thanks to a tall security fence, but the noodle still makes an entertaining drive-by. The Oversized Chair We recommend a trip to Joplin Empire Market— with or without the enormous bright yellow chair that’s located outside. But the chair… it’s a fun addition. Hop on up, feel itty-bitty on its big seat, and let your travel buddy snap a pic.

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WEIRD & WONDERFUL PHOTO OPS

Noon: Grab a Burger Billy Bob’s Dairy Land has been a Branson fixture since the 1960s. Trust us, you’ll want to ask for grilled onions on your burger—and don’t forget to order a milkshake or homemade fried pie for dessert.

THE PRETENDYOU’RE-A-TOURIST TRIP IN BRANSON

P H O TO S BY B R A N D O N A L M S, C O U R T E SY S I LV E R D O L L A R C I T Y

Who it’s for: Staycationers and families Time commitment: Two days Must pack: Walking shoes, fanny pack, selfie stick

or this jaunt in Branson, we’ve put together an itinerary that takes you from east to west, starting downtown and ending with a day at Silver Dollar City. Get into the tourist mindset, because you’ll be doing all the classic activities.

9:30 a.m.: Hit the Tracks After breakfast, you’ll be taking in the scenery. Head across the street to Branson Scenic Railway, where you can board the Scenic Excursion Train. It takes riders through Ozarks landscapes and into Arkansas before circling back to downtown Branson. Get a dome seat to enjoy even better views.

Day 1: 8 a.m.: Enjoy a Mythical Meal Mythic ‘Wich might be best known for its sandwiches, but we think it makes a great morning stop too. Fuel up with a Chupacabra breakfast burrito.

11 a.m.: Shop for It All Just down the road from the railway station is Dick’s 5 & 10, an old-school corner-style shop with everything from candy and toys to pop-culture collectibles and craft supplies.

1 p.m.: Attraction Hop Pick a couple of destinations on Branson’s strip that strike your fancy. Find kid-friendly sites like the Titanic Museum Attraction, Aquarium at the Boardwalk and WonderWorks Branson. Or opt for something funky like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and the Hollywood Wax Museum. 6 p.m.: Fuel Up With Dinner Veer off the strip and go to The Social Birdy for dinner. There you can combine food and fun with a hearty menu, pickleball courts, mini-golf and golf simulators. We recommend the loaded nachos with pulled pork.

7 p.m.: End With a Show You can’t visit Branson without seeing a stage performance. There’s no way we could list them all here, but a few good options include Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Legends in Concert and The Haygoods. Day 2: 9 a.m.: Dine at a Classic It’s not a trip to Branson if you don’t get a meal at Billy Gail’s. This beloved restaurant’s OG location offers kitschy decor and pancakes as big as a plate. 10 a.m.: Get Your Thrills Spend the rest of the day exploring one of two “lots to do” sites in Branson: Silver Dollar City or Shepherd of the Hills. At SDC, you’ll be riding all the roller coasters, stocking up on saltwater taffy and seeing a show or two while you’re there. At Shepherd of the Hills, you can admire the view at Inspiration Tower, soar across a zipline, ride the Copperhead Mountain Coaster and lots more.

Pretend to be a tourist in Branson with a trip to Silver Dollar City (above left) and Billy Gail’s (below).

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THE NORTHWEST ARKANSAS TRAIL HOP Who it’s for: Hill climbers and vista lovers Time commitment: Three days and two nights Must pack: Energy bars, walking stick, water bottle

here are few places with views as magical as those on northwest Arkansas’ trails. Spend a long weekend exploring the Bentonville and Jasper areas for the perfect mix of small town charm and rugged Ozarks beauty.

2 p.m.: Easy (or Hard!) Afternoon Trails Spend all afternoon exploring Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. There, you can cycle or walk the wide, paved Applegate Trail all the way to Airship Coffee. If you’re up for legit mountain biking too, you can venture farther into the preserve’s extensive, interconnected trail system.

Day 1: 9 a.m.: Start with Art Begin in Bentonville with a morning trip to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Explore the site’s scenic walking trails before dipping into the indoor galleries.

2 p.m.: Get Some Rest Spend the night at Bentonville’s 21c Museum Hotel for luxe rooms, tasty dining and onsite art galleries.

Noon: Lunch in Town For tried and true Latin flavors stay in Bentonville and try Table Mesa Bistro.

Day 2: 7 a.m.: Explore Whitaker Point Leave bright and early to drive to the Jasper area, where hiking options abound. Start

with a short trail that has a must-see payoff: Whitaker Point (also known as Hawksbill Crag) features a stunning rock outcropping that overlooks a deep valley. Noon: Lunch in Town After your morning walk, get lunch in Jasper at Ozark Cafe. The diner’s menu is huge, but leave room for dessert. A milkshake with chocolate, peanut butter and banana is the perfect post-hike treat. 2 p.m.: Choose Your View Here are two options for an afternoon hike. For a sweeping view of Arkansas Grand Canyon, opt for the 3.5-mile Round Top Trail. For a rewarding waterfall payoff at the end of the route, opt for 2.5-mile Lost Valley Trail.

Day 3: 8 a.m.: Big Bluff Goat Trail If you aren’t too tired and you want to add a challenging Day 3 hike, Big Bluff Goat Trail is a must-see. You’ll need at least half the day for this strenuous 6-mile loop, but it’s worth every aching muscle to see aerial views of the stunning, winding Buffalo National River.

Walk the trails at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art (above), and brave Big Bluff Goat Trail for killer views (left).

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P H O TO S BY J E F F R O S E , C O U R T E SY V I S I T B E N TO N V I L L E

6 p.m.: Fill Your Belly Dinner is back in Jasper, at Jasper Pizza Company. Then head to a cabin for the night. Buffalo Outdoor Center in nearby Ponca offers great lodging with beautiful views.

THE ADRENALINE JUNKIE’S BUCKET LIST Who it’s for: Adventure-seekers and risk-takers Time commitment: Three days Must pack: mountain bike, protein bars, your nerves

n a region full of beautiful hills and deep valleys, you can bet there are plenty of options for folks who like to get their hearts pumping outside. We’re not just talking about scenic walks here. We’re talking about activities that could land on any extreme daredevil’s bucket list. Are you ready? Come on, we dare you.

Option 3: Dirt 66 In the area around Fellows Lake, Dirt 66 features more than 25 miles of connected mountain biking trails (with more to be developed later), so Springfieldians can ride close to home. Bonus: lake views. Option 4: Southern Missouri Off Road Ranch If you prefer to ride on four wheels instead of two, consider at trip to Seymour. There you can hop on an ATV to explore trails at Southern Missouri Off Road Ranch. Bring your own vehicle, or reserve one from Seymour Off-Road Rentals.

Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain This is perfect for anyone who wants to feel like they are flying—but isn’t quite ready to jump out of a plane. Tours at Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain offer seven ziplines and 10 sky bridges. Day 3: Climb High Horseshoe Canyon Ranch Even beginner rock climbers can head to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in Jasper, Arkansas. They offer day passes that give you access to the area, plus they offer guided experiences. Bonus: There is mountain biking and ziplining at this adventure mecca too.

Don’t look down! Just kidding. The ziplining view at Wolfe Mountain is a winner.

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Day 1: Explore on Wheels Option 1: Howler Bike Park Howler Bike Park in Walnut Shade is a great place to start if you’re curious about mountain biking but don’t yet have the skills. That’s because they offer Shred School, where you can learn the ropes. Experienced mountain bikers will find challenges here too.

Option 2: Two Rivers Mountain Bike Park In Highlandville, Two Rivers Bike Park features almost 15 miles’ worth of multiuse trails, and many of them have features built in to add a little extra adventure, like drops, skills areas and more.

Day 2: Soar Through the Air Ozarks Skydive Center In Miller, Missouri, you can embark on a tandem skydive that has you leaping from a plane at 10,000 feet in the air. Afterward, hop over to Hangar Kafe where you can grab a bite and watch planes take off and land at the airport.

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THE ARTS + EATS CIRCUIT Who it’s for: Culture cats and local foodies Time commitment: One night Must pack: Opera glasses, a phone set to silent, an appetite

Walnut Street Dinner: The Order Head into Hotel Vandivort to dine on dishes created by 2019 James Beard Award–nominated chef Calvin Davis. The menu changes with the seasons, always featuring refined takes on seasonal Ozarks flavors.

Afternoon Art Stroll Next, take yourself on a self-guided tour of Sculpture Walk Springfield. You can find an interactive map at sculpturewalkspringfield.org that points you to dozens of original works peppered throughout downtown Springfield. It’s the perfect art-filled stroll. Show: Gillioz Theatre This lovingly restored theatre (originally built in 1926) brings in stand-up comedians and touring musicians while also hosting local organizations’ performances—like Ozarks Lyric Opera’s shows featuring world-renowned artist Michael Spyres. You can find recurring favorites at The Gillioz, like the annual Imagine concert, featuring John Lennon and The Beatles covers by local bands.

Show: Landers Theatre We aren’t sure how many steps it takes to get from Hotel Vandivort to Landers Theatre, but it might as well be zero. (They are neighbors!) At the Landers, you can see a Springfield Little Theatre production (like the upcoming Little Women musical in January) or a Springfield Ballet performance (like next month’s The Nutcracker). Park Central Square Late Lunch: The European The presentation is as lovely as the flavor at The European, where you can find beautiful pastries alongside meals like loaded salads, a chicken pesto panini and lots more. The handcrafted coffee drinks are great too, and perfect to fuel you up.

Head to Gilardi’s for dinner (above right) before seeing Springfield Symphony Orchestra perform at Hammons Hall (right).

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Missouri State Campus Dinner: Gilardi’s It’s not on campus, but it’s just a hop away on Walnut Street. Gilardi’s Ristorante serves decadent

Italian eats, often using ingredients grown in the restaurant’s on-site garden. Any of the pasta dishes are a must-try! Show: Hammons Hall Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts hosts Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s monthly concerts. But it’s also home to an annual Broadway series, featuring touring stage shows that have gained acclaim on Broadway. The next one on the calendar is next month’s The Lion King. Keep an eye on the calendar because, like The Gillioz, Hammons Hall has a packed scheduled filled with comedians, musicians and more.

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great way to take in a bit of culture is to combine it with a great meal. And in three areas of downtown Springfield, you can do just that—and only have to park your car once! Lucky for us, Springfield is packed with arts organizations that make it easy to fill your agenda with some truly excellent shows.

Concerts at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena (left) and stargazing at Echo Bluff State Park (below) offer perfect Ozarks nights.

Performances Under the Night Sky Option 1: Thunder Ridge Nature Arena During the summer season, big name concerts make their way to the Ozarks via Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. This outdoor venue offers fresh air, huge shows and views of Table Rock Lake. Option 2: Tent Theatre Also in the summer, theatre fans flock to Missouri State University’s John Goodman Amphitheatre for a beloved tradition: Tent Theatre. Students perform al fresco on hot Ozarks nights, and we love it year after year.

THE AFTER-DARK MUST-LIST

P H O TO S C O U R T E SY T H U N D E R R I D G E N AT U R E A R E N A , S H U T T E R S TO C K

Who it’s for: Stargazers and night owls Time commitment: One night at a time Must pack: Sweater, astronomy app, sense of wonder

ther story themes in our “10 True Ozarks Adventures” list focus on filling your day to the brim with activities. This one is for the stargazers who like to sleep in. Get a late start on your day, so you have plenty of energy saved up for nighttime fun. Instead of an itinerary, we give you a list of options. When the night feels right, pick the one that sparks your imagination. Your New Favorite Hobby: Stargazing Option 1: Find a Dark Sky If you want to see a sky filled with a wild number of stars (and maybe even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way), you need truly dark skies with little to no light pollution. Lucky for all of us, the Ozarks is home to state parks that offer just that on a clear

night. Head east to Echo Bluff State Park or Montauk State Park, and turn those eyes up to the sky.

Late Night Eats When you get hungry during your night out under the stars, there are late-night eats that can fuel you. For a quintessential Ozarks bite, get the OG Springfield-style cashew chicken from Leong’s Asian Diner for dinner before your night out. After you’re done stargazing and concertgoing, grab a bite at Andy’s Frozen Custard for a local favorite sweet treat that’s open well into the night. For something more savory, Tinga Tacos in downtown Springfield is open late too—and the nachos are crave-worthy, for sure.

Option 2: Attend an Event If you prefer to have a knowledgeable guide on your side, opt for a stargazing event. Once a year (November 13 this year), Finley Farms offers Stargazing & S’mores, where a seasoned astronomer brings out high-powered telescopes and helps you understand what celestial bodies you’re spotting. Option 3: Wish on a Shooting Star Every year around mid-August, the Perseid Meteor Shower fills the sky. To take advantage of this stunning natural event, find a dark sky, lay out a blanket and keep your eyes peeled for shooting stars soaring across the Ozarks sky. 417MAG.COM

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Celebrate with Us! FINLEY FARMS | OZARK, MO | FINLEYFARMSMO.COM | @FINLEYFARMSMO

TURN THE PAGE TO FIND PIPING HOT DINING NEWS AND SOME EXTRADELICIOUS OZARKS EATS.

Taste This

ARE YOU READY TO DIG INTO THE YUMMIEST STUFF AROUND? LET’S EAT!

DIG IN!

An Authentic Taste of Arabia Middle Beast Cafe & Market is bringing manakeesh, shawarma wraps and other dynamic flavors from across the globe to downtown Springfield. B Y T E S S A C OOPE R PHOT OG R A PHE D B Y B R A N D ON A L M S

Wood-fired pizza is among many food offerings at Middle Beast Cafe & Market.

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hen sultan alqahtani first arrived in Springfield back in 2014, he couldn’t have ever imagined that one day he would open Middle Beast Cafe & Market. Originally from Saudi Arabia, he came here to study at Missouri State University and later went on to start his own company, SSJ Construction LLC. So what inspired such a big career pivot? As it turns out, it was a craving for the flavors from his home country. Since he couldn’t find a place that serves what he considers authentic Middle Eastern fare in Springfield, he decided to open one. When I headed to Middle Beast for this review, the restaurant was bustling during the lunch rush. I wasn’t surprised, since word had spread quickly about this new downtown business. But something that no one seemed to be talking about at the time was their utterly charming back patio. I was the only diner to request a seat outside, so I had the entire patio to myself. It features a series of beautiful wooden gazebos with lovely red cushions and nice landscaping. But now onto the food. My lunch date for the day was my 1-year-old daughter, Florence. Bringing your toddler out to eat is always a bit of a gamble, but when my server graciously brought out a complimentary plate of fresh fruit for Florence, I knew the odds were in my favor for a great experience. It’s little touches like this that make a huge difference.

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For my main, I decided to go with the crispy falafel wrap with fresh veggies and paired it with an order of fries. Both came with a tahini dip, but I decided to try them on their own first. I was pretty pleased, but I must say this tangy-fresh dip is what completely won me over. I could have eaten it by the spoonful. I also decided to be a little adventurous and get the cucumber-and-mint laban with a hint of garlic. This refreshing, fermented milk drink reminded me a bit

of kefir. So if you’re a fan of that, you’ll be a fan of this. Okay, now it’s time for my regrets. I should have spent more time exploring the market side of things, and I wish I had ordered one of their pizzas or manakeesh. When you first walk in, you can catch a glimpse of the beautiful woodfired oven they cook these dishes in, and the subtle smoky smell will immediately make your mouth water. On my next visit, I plan on ordering the classic za’atar manakeesh with a pot of the Adeni Karak tea. The tea comes highly recommended by 417 Magazine editorial director Katie Pollock Estes, and she says it’s perfectly strong, not too sweet and full of warm spices. But here’s something I definitely didn’t regret. As a little reward for Florence being such a good lunch date, I decided to order us some dessert. I went with the Khaliat al Nahl, which translates to hon-

eycomb in Arabic. This trio of soft buns comes with sweet dates or warm Nutella. I probably would have chosen the date version, but ended up going with the latter for Florence’s sake. It came to our table topped with mini M&Ms, and Florence squealed with delight at her first bite. “My thoughts exactly,” I told her.

THE SWEET SPOT

Sweet & Salty B Y T E S S A C OOPE R

P H O TO BY C A M E R O N G R A H A M

T RY I T

Middle Beast Cafe & Market 715 W. College St., Springfield, 417-306-9185, Tues.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. and 4 p.m.–10 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. and 4 p.m.–11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $$

don’t fall for impulse and the unique flavor combination in purchases very often. this candy bar certainly has his name But anytime I see a stack all over it. It’s a bit like a Snickers of Dan’s Miso Candy meets Crunch bar, but much more Bars next complex. The dark chocolate to the cash register at The brings depth and sweetness, Dan’s Miso Candy Bar Royal, I tell them to add one and the miso gives it a delibrings the to my tab. They’re made by cious umami flavor. If you’re perfect sweetDaniel Ernce, chef and fora fan of salted caramel, you’ll and-savory bite. mer co-owner of Progress, be a fan of this candy bar. 417MAG.COM

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TasteThis

BITE-SIZE REVIEW

Expand Your Palate BY T E S S A COOPER

hen you think of indian food, you probably think of heavy meals like creamy curries served over rice, naan bread and palak paneer. But what you’re really thinking of here is Northern Indian cuisine. If you want to get a taste of cuisine from the country’s lower region, head to Nastha South Indian Foods tucked inside Bombay Bazaar. According to Nirav Patel, owner of Bombay Bazaar, Northern-style Indian cuisine is heavier than Southern-style to accommodate their farming lifestyle and cold winters. Southern Indian cuisine is a bit lighter and reflects a more tropical

climate. I recently enjoyed a meal there, and all of the spice-forward dishes were an absolute delight to my taste buds. When I arrived, they greeted me with a cup of chai made with fresh ginger and spices, and it perfectly prepped my palate for a round of dosas. This popular Southern Indian

street food is a bit like a savory crêpe, and it’s made with a fermented rice and lentil batter. My favorite one was the Masala dosa, which was filled with potatoes doused in spices. I left with a new appreciation for this type of food and feeling like I got a little social studies and geography lesson.

DRINK OF THE MONTH | BY TESSA COOPER

I firmly believe the recipe for ket, and I was enamored with all a perfect Saturday starts with the attention to detail from the sipping coffee somewhere moment I walked in the door. I beautiful, and following it up highly recommend ordering the with antique hunting. So, I La Flame Latte, which I believe suppose you could say I absowas practically made for chilly lutely fall into Lumière Coffee November days. It features & Café’s target demographic. cardamom and cayenne, which This gorgeous gem in offer such an unexBranson is attached pected but delightful The La to 417 Vintage Marlittle kick. Flame Latte brings cardamom, cayenne and cozy vibes. 86

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Spice & Everything Nice

FORGET PUNCH Fritz’s family lovingly calls this cocktail “Forget Punch.” It’s a make-ahead welcome drink that lets Thanksgiving guests serve themselves (so you can focus on wrapping up dinner). It has tasting notes of pear, rosemary and ginger, so it's practically fall in a glass. This recipe calls for cardamom bitters, and Fritz recommends the one by Doc Paun’s Craft Bitters (available at 417 Cocktails). Makes 12–15 servings.

SAVE ROOM SOUR “Because pie deserves a drinking buddy,” Fritz says. This drink is rich and warming, and offers just a hint of toasted marshmallow. You can buy Surrup’s Toasted Marshmallow simple syrup at 417 Cocktails or try your hand at making your own version (see recipe). For the coffee bitters, she recommends Bitter Queens Coffee Cardamom Bitters, which she also carries at the shop. Makes one cocktail. Ingredients

Ingredients

1.5 oz bourbon of choice

12 oz London dry gin (such as

0.5 oz aged rum

Tanqueray)

0.5 oz fresh-squeezed lemon juice

24 oz pear nectar

0.5 oz toasted marshmallow

12 dashes cardamom bitters

syrup*

6 oz ginger liqueur (such as

2 dashes coffee bitters

Domaine de Canton) 3.5 oz rosemary syrup*

To Prepare

6 oz fresh-squeezed lemon juice

Add all ingredients and a couple of handfuls of ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake until well chilled (about 10–15 seconds). Strain into a rocks glass over a large cube of ice or a handful of ice from your freezer. No fancy ice required.

1 bottle of dry sparkling wine or champagne To Prepare

IN THE KITCHEN

P H O TO B Y T E S S A C O O P E R

A Toast to Thanksgiving Nothing can complement an already incredible Thanksgiving meal quite like quality drink pairings. We tapped Mandi Fritz, owner of 417 Cocktails in downtown Springfield, and asked her to share two of her favorite drink recipes to serve alongside a fall feast. B Y MAND I FR I T Z

Add all ingredients to your punch bowl and gently stir. Garnish with a few rosemary stems if desired. *To make rosemary syrup, combine ¼ cup white sugar and ¼ cup water in a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Add two to three rosemary sprigs and heat on low for 20–30 minutes. Strain and allow to rest until syrup is at room temperature. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator until you are ready to make the punch.

*To make your own toasted marshmallow syrup, combine ½ cup white sugar with ½ cup water in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add eight to 10 toasted marshmallows (toast with a kitchen torch or under the broiler) and whisk gently until incorporated. Remove from heat and stir in ½ tsp vanilla extract and a tiny pinch of salt. Allow to cool and refrigerate until needed.

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FRIED & TRUE

Flavor-Forward Fries Consider this your sign to order the fries. Civil Kitchen’s Truffle Shuffle Straws are loaded with all the good stuff.

f you’re faced with the decision to either risk ruining your appetite or skip a starter of Civil Kitchen’s Truffle Shuffle Straws, the

NOVEMBER 2026

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choice is clear: You should indulge in the fries. After all, scenarios like this are exactly why doggy bags exist. But these aren’t your average fries. They come topped with the most decadent white

truffle oil that will immediately wake up your taste buds, plus tangy bleu cheese that perfectly cuts through the fat in the bacon. They finish it all off with a nice sprinkle of chives.

P H O TO BY B R A N D O N A L M S

B Y T E S S A C OOPE R

Good Things One list. Zero themes. Just seven dishes that we have recently tried and can’t stop recommending. BY T E S S A COOPER

better than cookie dough ice 1 What’s cream? Cookie dough ice cream that

also has brownie batter in it. That’s exactly what the Brownie Batter Cookie Dough from Sips & Scoops delivers. This delicious combination needs no further explanation.

Deli has a new(ish) arugula 2 Derby and avocado salad on the menu

that’s delicious on its own. But when you add some seared tuna, it suddenly becomes a heartier meal.

raves about the bagels 3 Everyone from Big Baby Bagel (as they

should). But their amazing cream cheese flavors are worth a shout-out. They recently added a chili crisp version to the menu, which tastes extra great on a chilly morning.

Not one, but two friends recently raved to me about the quiche from The Coffee Ethic. No matter the rotating flavor, it literally melts in your mouth. Plus the potato crust is so craveable.

bread service at The Order is 5 The always second to none. We love that

LOCALLY OWNED. REGIONAL REACH. Oﬃce Cleaning | Floor Care Sports Facilities | Medical Facilities

they slice it tableside, and the butter always comes in the most unique flavors.

$8 Martini from The Royal is 6 The one of the best deals in town right

now. It’s balanced and classic thanks to a simple ingredient list of London dry gin, dry vermouth and orange bitters.

sweet potato fries from Geor7 The gia Mac’s are delicious in their own

417.833.4250 | myqualityclean.com

right, but it’s the addition of the hot honey that makes this dish a repeat order for us. 417MAG.COM

NOVEMBER 2026

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. KEY

$ = less than $10, $$ = mostly $10–20, $$$ = $20 or more B, L, D = Serves Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner d= Outdoor seating

14 MILL MARKET 203 E. Mount Vernon St., Nixa, 14millmarket.com Food hall. There are 10 restaurants, the full-service Wisner Bar and a fun outdoor entertainment area. Stop by for Korean barbecue bowls at The Gochu, sweets at Liege Love Waffle Co., tacos at No’cho Ordinary Taco, pretty desserts and boba tea at Keikeu, burgers at MO Slider Company, British pasties at London Calling, shaved ice at Sno Biz, poke bowls at Fresh Poke, barbecue at Uptown Hog, pizza at Classic Pizza Co., and more. $–$$ L  d

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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. $   dK

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 with ranch dressing and fried pickles. You can get other sammies too, like fried pork tenderloin or Philly cheesesteaks. $   d

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. $$    d

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BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES Four Springfield locations; blaaacksheep.com Burgers. This swanky but comfortable burger joint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield Village and on East Sunshine Street. Chow down on the Good Yogi; two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and baaad sauce—house-made Thousand Island dressing. The shakes are great here too, with both kid-friendly options and grown-up versions with alcohol. $   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, like tender galettes filled with loads of luscious lemon curd. 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. $  

➽

ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER 1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8831234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs.com. American fare. Andy B’s offers lane-side food service and a menu full of hearty, tasty fare like burgers, pizzas, pasta and more. If you have any pintsize bowlers, get the hot pretzel. It’s a kid-pleaser. Bonus: There’s a full-service bar here, too. $  

AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS 2144 E. Republic, Suite E120, Springfield, 417881-9736; aviarycafe.com Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes—which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there’s so much more besides crepes. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French flair. $–$$ B   d

BIG WHISKEY’S Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com American. Springfield’s go-to for buffalo 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. $$    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.

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. $$   d CANYON GRILL RESTAURANT at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org American. Located on the grounds of Dogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon Grill Restaurant has a menu inspired by its surroundings. Try the bison burger made with bacon and caramelized onion topped with fire-roasted poblano peppers and pepper-jack cheese. $–$$   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. Try one of the entrees like cacio e pepe or confit chicken. $$–$$$   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 in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Customers love the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. Don’t miss the Cellar Board with meats, cheeses and fruits. Bonus: A great wine menu. $$  d

CHATEAU GRILLE 415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-243-1777, chateauonthelake.com Contemporary American. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Chateau Grille offers 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. $$$   d CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE 601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800 Contemporary American. What do you get when you combine a coffee shop, bar, cafe and liquor store? Cherry Picker Package + Fare. A small selection of sandwiches, soups and salads is served daily. We’re big fans of the To Brie or Not to Brie—an Artisan Oven baguette topped with salted butter spread, thinly sliced ham, apricot preserves and a slice of brie. After your meal, order an adult beverage at the bar or pick up a bottle of wine to enjoy at home. The coffee drinks are delish. $    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 waffles on the menu, it is easy to see the appeal of this rustic-but-comfortable restaurant and bar. Specializing in upscale comfort food, Civil Kitchen and Tap draws inspo from Southern and Midwestern staples. Some favorite dishes include salmon with fruit pico de gallo, crispy charred Brussels sprouts, huge salads and truly indulgent and gigantic battered onion rings. $  d

CLUB 609 609 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-6090, club609. com American. The menu is large at this Joplin mainstay, and it offers 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 (you have to try the Cobb), and soups are made fresh every day. They also have a killer happy hour. $$   DERBY DELI Temporary address at the Frisco Building: 3253 E. Chestnut Expy., Springfield, 417-823-3551 Bistro fare. This eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus board and more. We love the Martin’s salad, topped with oven-roasted chicken, or the Local Goat salad topped with a scoop of chicken salad. Don’t miss the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham, President’s butter and Gruyere on a baguette. If you’re thinking, “But it’s just a ham sandwich,” you’ll be in for a pleasant surprise. It’s the best ham sandwich you’ve ever had. $    DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417335-2777, bigcedar.com American. Here you can enjoy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. For an appetizer, the smoked trout is fantastic, and so is the cornbread topped with cracked pepper maple butter and smoked bacon. The entrees change with the season and are always the perfect blend of rustic and upscale eats. Brunch is served on Sundays. $$–$$$    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 farmto-table quality. There’s a fried green tomato caprese appetizer that uses pickled tomatoes and a housemade mozzarella cheese. $$   d DOWNING STREET POUR HOUSE 24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse.com American. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour House offers must-try dishes that include the giant Bavarian pretzel appetizer, the queso-smothered tamales and the blackened mahi mahi entree. Don’t miss the wagyu burgers. $–$$   FARMERS GASTROPUB 2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8646994, farmersgastropub. com Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and changes regularly. The entrees are well priced and satisfying, like the Scotch eggs and the chicken chop salad (arugula, kale, cabbage, blue cheese, boiled egg, pumpkin seeds, buttermilk dressing). $$    d FIRE & ICE 2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8665253, oasisfireandice.com Global cuisine. This spot (located inside Oasis Hotel & Convention Center) specializes in dry-aged steaks and certified Angus beef and has a delicious menu that changes with the seasons. Be sure to try the Fire & Ice Whiskey Burger. $$   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 rosemary pound cake. $$$  d THE GROTTO 301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-886-9600 gogrotto.com West Coast–style American. The menu is accessible to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. The super-indulgent warm blue cheese chips are a favorite appetizer. Customers like the burgers (especially the burger topped with lots of tangy blue cheese). One of our favorite things is the grilled salmon with a side of the sweet-and-sweet potato fries. $   d HARVEST RESTAURANT 8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville, 417-8303656, harvestmo.com Farm-to-table. Dining at Harvest Restaurant is an experience like none other in 417-land. Owners, Craig and Tamara Von Foerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper-seasonal, local cuisine. The menu is always in flux depending on the season. $$$  d HY-VEE 1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8818224; 2150 E. Sunshine, Springfield; hy-vee.com American and more. It’s all about variety when it comes to the freshly prepared food at Hy-Vee. You have a hibachi grill, a pizzeria, hearty comfort food like fried chicken with macaroni and cheees, sushi, Chinese dishes and burgers. $–$$ B  

JW’S KITCHEN 2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997 British and American Southern. This tasty spot comes from the owners of Farmers Gastropub, Andy and Misty Hampshire. It features excellently prepared brunch options, like biscuits with chocolate gravy (a southern American favorite) or a full English breakfast (black sausage included) and everything in between. For dinner, find comforting fare like fried chicken or roasted Scottish salmon. Don’t miss the fried pickles appetizer with homemade ranch for dipping. $$   D LA ROUX BISTRO 300 E. Commercial St., Springfield, larouxbistro.com Cajun/French/Ozarks cuisine. The menu at this unique spot is a fusion of flavors from Louisiana with a French inflence and southwest Missouri roots—all in a restored 1885 building brimming with character. Don’t miss the blue crab beignets, the green tomato po’ boy or the shrimp and grits. Reserve a seat in the beautiful Phenix Vault room. $$– $$$  D MAMA G’S KITCHEN 2463 W. Sunshine St., Ste. 124; 210 S. Market, Ste. 124; Springfield; mamagkitchen.com Southern. This is your goto for comforting soul food. Mama G’s Kitchen started out with a spot at Metro Eats (the Sunshine Street location). Now, the restaurant has added a second outpost (the Market St. location in downtown Springfield). Come here for comforting dishes like hearty fried pork chops, crispy catfish, meatloaf and lots more. Sides are great too, with options like collard greens, hush puppies and cheesy potatoes. $$ L 

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Dining Guide

METROPOLITAN GRILL 2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8894951, metropolitan-grill. com Eclectic fine dining. Metropolitan Grill is known for its delectable flashfried spinach, but this restaurant also specializes in excellent steaks and seafood. The salads are always fresh and delicious. And we love that the sucreative 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

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, street tacos and tons more. We love the jicama taco, which we like to order filled with the super-crunchy coconut shrimp. Another favorite is the tostones appetizer: mashed and fried plantains topped with refried beans, sour cream and pico de gallo. Get them with cilantro sauce. $$  

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. (Especially that egg salad!) Nearly Famous is always hopping at lunchtime, and the dinner hours offer a menu filled with tasty pasta dishes. They’re a good stop for a weekend brunch as well. $$   

NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY 1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417-720-4162; neighborsmill.com Deli and bakery. This full time bakery offers 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 a fruit and yogurt parfait. Don’t forget to grab a loaf of bread; the Neighbor’s Best loaf makes truly top-notch avocado toast. $    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. $$–$$$   d

ON THE HORIZON

Golden Girl’s Big Move If you missed the news on our socials last month, allow us to catch you up. After more than a decade in downtown Springfield, Golden Girl Rum Club’s parent company, Good Spirits & Co. (GS&Co.), plans to relocate Golden Girl Rum Club to 1426 E. Elm St. in Springfield’s Rountree neighborhood. “Golden Girl will get a bit of a facelift,” co-owner Joshua Widner says. “While remaining true to our rum-focused and tropical roots, this location will also emphasize classic cocktails and feature a less-tropical atmosphere. Rum will continue to be the heart of the program, and our kitchen will expand its offerings in hopes of adjusting our menu and operating hours to better fit the neighborhood, including lunch and longer happy hours.” Golden Girl will remain open and unchanged at its current location at 137 Park Central Square during construction. Widner hasn’t released a projected timeline for the project completion just yet. However, he did share that we can expect to see several exterior changes, including fresh paint, a new roof, fencing, landscaping and parking lot restriping.—Tessa Cooper

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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 left for a downtown-Springfield dining experience not to be missed. The atmosphere is trendy but relaxed while the food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from-scratch kitchen. Try Executive Chef Calvin Davis’s spin on cashew chicken or the market fish specials that change daily. Brunch is excellent here too. $$–$$$ B 

OSAGE RESTAURANT at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-2256343, topoftherock.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 offers 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 after 5 p.m. $$$   THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417210-6644, finleyfarmsmo. com Farm-to-table. Inside the beautifully restored Ozark Mill, you can order upscale farm-to-table meals that are made with ingredients grown right at Finley Farms or produced in their onsite apiary. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters appetizer made with artichoke, sausage, mozzarella and served over a pickled pepper aioli. The seasonal market snacking board is a shareable favorite. $$–$$$   d PALM & PADDLE GRILLE 2515 S. Campbell Ave., Ste. 400, Springfield, 417605-7500, palmandpaddlegrille.com Caribbean. Everything has an island flair here. The coconut shrimp is a must-try, and so is the mango-habanero chicken. Their tasty jerk chicken is a filling option for the tiki tacos, along with jerk shrimp and carne asada. Bonus: If you’re perusing the entrees and can’t decide what you want, you can go for an Island Combination and order two. $$–$$$   d

P H O TO B Y T E S S A C O O P E R

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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 offers several tasty salad options. Check website for seasonal hours. $$  

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. $$$ 

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 topped with bacon, onion strings, cheese and Yuenglinginfused barbecue sauce. $$   

SHOW ME CHUY 1410 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715357, showmechuy.com Italian-Mexican fusion. This fusion spot offers Italian options like pasta carbonara, Mexican options like bright-and-fresh shrimp aguachile and combos of the both cuisines. For example, the penne poblano features rigatoni pasts in a poblano sauce with Mexican cheese. Brunch is served on Sundays. $   

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. (The A stands for avocado... yum!) There’s even a section of the menu with keto-friendly options that are low-carb and gluten-free. $$   ROSIE JO’S CAFE 1711 S. 15th St., Ozark, 417-581-6047 American. This place is a popular hangout at breakfast with great daily specials, and it also has great homemade pies, including surprising ones like gooseberry. The fried chicken is delicious at this eatery. $   

SPLIT SOCIAL KITCHEN 3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7557155, splitspringfield.com American. Come for creative and beautifully prepared shareables and hearty entrees. The menu changes with the seasons, but recently we’ve loved the Ooo Mami Tacos filled with seared sashimi-grade tuna. $$   ST. MICHAEL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE 301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315 American. The burgers are top-notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken breast are a favorite (try the one with spicy Cajun chicken—yum!). Come hungry enough to order dessert because the cakes are stellar. Our favorite is the banana cake, but blueberry-lemon is a very close second. $–$$  

THE TABLE 610 Prospect Ave., Springfield, thetable. restaurant Bistro fare. This beautiful eatery features lovely decor, a nice patio area and great eats all day. For breakfast, try the Figgy Toast. Later in the day, don’t miss the street corn dip appetizer or the brown sugar cured salmon entree. $–$ $    d

Experience the

Finest

TEA BAR & BITES 621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417883-2462, teabarandbites.com. Bistro fare. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, flaky crust. The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. There are tasty baked goods too, like giant caramel rolls. $    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 pancakes—especially the Farm Near Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. $$   

BARBECUE BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ 2002 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8869979, 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. If you’re extra hungry, get the baked potato that’s covered with just about everything. $   d

Hours Monday–Saturday: 4:30–11 p.m. Sunday: Closed

Lunch Hours

Monday–Friday: 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

417-501-1675 1110 E. Battlefield Rd., Springfield

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NOVEMBER 2026

Dining Guide

CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE 3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7201113, citybutchersgf.com Come early because this Texas-style barbecue spot, where the meat is smoked in small batches for optimal freshness, is known to sell out. Killer brisket, pulled pork and other favorites are sold first-come, first-served with a few simple but delicious side dish options. The smoked chocolate chip cookies are super-fun. $–$$   d CROSSTOWN BBQ 1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646 Try the ribs or the brisket. We loved the smoked chicken salad for something that feels healthy and indulgent at the same time. For a side, get the crispy fried okra. $–$$  

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 seven wagyu burgers on the menu are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong. We can’t get enough of the pork tacos appetizer. $–$$  

BILLY GAIL’S CAFE multiple Ozarks locations, billygailsrestaurant.com Billy Gail’s in Branson has been a beloved breakfast hotspot for ages, and it’s still going strong. Come for massive pancakes and other breakfast fare. The Ozark location serves dinner on the weekends. $

HEADY BAR-B-QUE CO. 573 E. Elm, Republic, 417732-4227, headybbq.com This spot specializes in Kansas City–style barbecue. Among stellar ribs, brisket and more perfectly prepared meats, you can find unexpected dishes with a barbecue spin: nachos, salads, a burrito. The sandwiches are excellent options too. $–$$  

THE BRUNCHEONETTE 424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net We love the creative takes on eggs Benedict that we’ve found at The Bruncheonette, whose menu changes weekly but is always interesting. Don’t miss your chance to order a plate of poutine or a side of carrot fries. $  

BREAKFAST

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 lemon-ricotta pancakes, chia pudding, a few types of eggs Benedict and lots more. Don’t miss the lunch menu. $   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, choice of meat, two eggs and either hash browns or sweet browns. Gailey’s is known for breakfast, but the restaurant also has a tasty lunch menu. $   THE EUROPEAN 105 Park Central Sq., Springfield, theeuropean417.com The pastries are picture-perfect and taste just as good as they look. The cardamom buns are luxurious comfort food. We love the mousse cakes, the macarons and the strawberry pancakes—or the shakshuka for something savory. $   d

FRESH NEW E ATS

Uncle Bently’s is Now Serving Food This past month was a big one for Uncle Bently’s Pub and Lounge. For the first time since the business first opened in 1978, it’s now serving food. I got to attend the soft launch of the menu, and I can confidently say it’s delicious. In fact, I’m going to have to write this quickly, because just thinking about it is making me hungry again. I’ll say it was definitely not your basic bar fare; the lineup had more classic steakhouse vibes. One interesting thing I noticed was that almost everyone who attended opted for the salad bar add-on, and I was so glad I fell into the peer pressure and did the same. I tried the brisket burger, which was topped with smoked gouda, crispy onions and some of the best barbecue aioli I’ve ever tasted. My husband Chandler opted for the chicken parmesan pasta, and it was such a craveable dish. The chicken was stuffed with pepperoni, salami and cream cheese, and the portions were so generous that he had leftovers.—Tessa Cooper

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SLEEPY OPOSSUM CAFE 1423 E. Cherry St., Springfield, Ste. 101, 913730-6224, sleepyopossumcafe.com This darling spot serves creative breakfast fare. We are obsessed with their hashbrown quiches, and the homemade biscuits topped with everything seasoning are to die for. Any baked sweet is a dream here too, especially the creative cakes. $  

CHINESE CHINESE CHEF 3029 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8834770, facebook.com/ chinesechefcampbell; 1731 S. Enterprise Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2433 Classic Springfield-style Chinese food is on the vast and very affordable menu at Chinese Chef. Owner Joe Fong has been serving Springfield for over 40 years, and some of his customers’ favorite dishes include Kung Pao chicken, made-from-scratch cashew chicken, crab rangoon and egg rolls. $   CORNER 21 1730 E. Republic Road, Ste. A, Springfield, 417771-5666, corner21sgf. com This restaurant’s menu offers 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. We loved everything we tried on a recent visit, especially the pork buns. For a meat-free option, the Mix Vegetable with Special Sauce for something bright and light or the spicy tofu for something with a punch of heat. $   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 stuff. 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.

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The General Tso’s chicken has a rich and spicy sauce and lots of veggies. Another favorite is the Hunan beef. The signature dishes are great, but be sure to keep an eye out for new items, as they change up their menu a couple times a year. $–$$   LUCY’S CHINESE FOOD Multiple locations, lucyschinesefood.com Don’t miss the cashew chicken combo special that gets you an entree, a side and fried rice for an incredible price. We like the sweet and sour chicken here. But if you’d rather eat something mega-spicy than something fried, order the hot chicken. It’ll have you reaching for your water glass with every bite. We love the kids meals here, too. They are the perfect little portion of tiny diners, plus they come with a spring roll, a crab rangoon and a drink. $   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. $  

COFFEE SHOP FARE ARCHITECT COFFEE 1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715030; 1300 E. Battlefield; architectcoffeeco.com This Instagram-chic coffee shop on Springfield’s south side offers 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 often, especially when

they offer some version of a refreshing espresso tonic. So good! Don’t skip the sandwiches or salads for lunch (served all night). We also love this spot because it’s hopping, and we always run into a friend when we visit. Battlefield Road location is drive-thru only. $   D

Branson, Meet Flamin’ Hen House It looks like there’s a new fried chicken place to check out in 417-land. Flamin’ Hen House opened at 3250 Falls Parkway in Branson, and they’re whipping up fried chicken at five different spice levels. Their menu is also full of all the classic accouterments, like mac and cheese (also available in a loaded version) and Texas toast. We can’t wait to check it out next time we are down there!—Tessa Cooper

BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR 217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8659911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-8684157; bigmommascoffee. com This spot offers coffee, espresso and blended frappes. But there is more on the menu than just drinks. Be sure to try the super-delicious sandwiches that are served here, too. The Juliette is one of our favorite sandwiches from Big Momma’s (with apples, provolone and creamy spreads), and we also adore the sweets selection. $    d

is the authentic Cuban sandwich, served pressed on Cuban bread. Cafe Cubano’s’ signature is its Cafe Con Leche with scalded milk. We also love the guava pastry, a treat that costs less than $2 and is filled with tropical sweetness. For breakfast, the bacon and cheddar burritos are a favorite thanks to crisp, thick-cut bacon. Order it with an iced Americano for a hearty breakfast. Come by Tuesday, when you can Cuban tacos. $   

THE BLACK LAB COFFEE CO. 545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook. com/theblacklabllc This casually canine-inspired coffee stop is Republic’s place to be for a piping hot Labbuccino. Try the Black Lab, which includes toffee nut and chocolate, or the Goldendoodle, a signature combination of caramel and brown sugar. Sips aren’t the only draw here, either. The shop serves full lunch and breakfast menus too. Indulge in a Nutella toast with strawberries along with your brew. $  

CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE 1900 W. Sunset St., Springfield, 417-8817625, classicrockcoffee. com This coffee shop offers espresso drinks with rock ‘n’ roll–inspired names. Try the Sweet Emotion latte (with chocolate and caramel) and a ham and cheese puff pastry breakfast pocket to start your day. Another perennial favorite drink: The Dirty White Boy. Don’t miss the gigantic and so delightful chocolate muffin—and order it warmed up for an extra-tasty treat. $   d

CAFE CUBANO 3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8877777, facebook.com/ countrygirlsespresso Aside from all of the delicious coffee drinks, the real must-try item here

THE COFFEE ETHIC 124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-8666645, thecoffeeethic.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, craft beers on draft and a small selection of quality liquors. The food game here is strong too, with loaded oatmeal, freshly baked muffins and more. We love the bottled lattes too. $ d DANCING MULE COFFEE COMPANY 1945 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8835114, dancingmulecoffee. 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. $  ECHELON COFFEE 2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-3742739; 2510 S. State Highway MM, Republic, 417-494-2739; echeloncoffee.com This sunny coffee shop (with a drive-thru!) has excellent espresso drinks, drip coffee, pour-over and more. The cortado is always well done. And 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. There are excellent biscuits and gravy on the weekends only, and options like smoothie bowls, sandwiches and salads every day of the week. You can’t go wrong with one of the breakfast burritos. We like the one made with goat cheese. $    d EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE 445 E. Commercial St., 417-720-1949, culturecstreet.com This coffee roaster with a mission also serves some tasty fare in its Culture Cafe. In addition to carefully crafted cups of coffee, there are excellent lunch items. Recently we’ve enjoyed the chicken tikka naan’wich and the smoky chili. We love ordering the miso caramel latte too. $ d KINGDOM COFFEE 211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-3501234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf.com The coffee menu features classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos, mochas and more. We love the classic cortado the most, and the not-toosweet and super-creamy iced matcha latte is truly delicious. The seasonal drinks are always a treat here, too. For your sweet tooth, order a slice of cake made by Kyle Davis of Buttermilk. $    d MAPLE LEAF COFFEEHOUSE 800 W. Central Ave., Carthage, 417-237-9075; 2206 S. Maple St., Ste. C2, Carthage, 417-237-9137; mapleleafcoffeehouse. com There are great coffeeshop classics here, as well as some really fun seasonal options. Past seasonals have featured flavored cold foams, like pumpkin

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spice or lavender. In addition to coffee, stop in for savory crepes, creative toasts, affogatos, matcha lattes, salads, smoothie bowls and more. There are two locations: The one on Central Avenue is Maple Leaf Coffeehouse & Creperie, and the one on Maple Street is Maple Leaf Coffeehouse & Smootherie. They use coffee from Battlefield-based Copper Canyon Coffee Roasters. $   MUDHOUSE COFFEE 323 South Ave. Suite B, Springfield; 5401 N. 22nd St., Ozark; mudhousecoffee.com The coffee is always fantastic here, at Springfield’s OG downtown coffee shop. Plus, Mudhouse also offers a wide variety of loose-leaf teas. The cheesecake here is a musttry—so decadent! $    THE PRESS COFFEE & JUICE BAR 2710 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-771-5950 Asian fusion. This wholefoods cafe offers organic dishes with ingredients from local market vendors. Juices are organic and cold-pressed. The real draw here is the MexicanKorean fusion menu, featuring gogi nachos, kimchi fried rice and street tacos. The gogi quesadilla with kimchi is our favorite; we like to order it with tofu and extra goji sauce on the side for dipping every single crispy bite of our quesadilla. $    d ROOTS COFFEE BAR 1645 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8776889, facebook.com/ rootscoffeebar Grab a cup of joe on the go or stay awhile and order a breakfast sandwich at this versatile coffee shop. Be sure not to miss the Smash Brown: a fried egg, cheese and hash brown sandwich topped with sau96

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Dining Guide

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sage, house-made brisket or pecan smoked shoulder bacon and served on a potato bun. Other popular menu items include breakfast burritos and the BLT. $ d URBAN GROUNDS COFFEE & PLANT LAB 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, urbangrounds417.com This spot specializes in drinks made with locally roasted coffee. Try classics like lattes and cappuccinos, or opt for a flavored options (like salted caramel toffee) 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 coffee shop doubles as a plant store and boutique, selling gifts, home decor and more. In the plant lab, you can buy a plant and a pot and then put them together while you sip a coffee. $   THE WORKSHOP AT FINLEY FARMS 840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com The Workshop is a coffee shop and gathering space. The menu includes classic coffee and tea offerings plus super-sized suped-up toasts (the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious). Don’t miss the delicious creamy chicken salad; it’s excellent. As for drinks, we love The Workshop Shake, a shaken iced latte with vanilla bean syrup, cinnamon and honey. $   d

DELIS THE ALMIGHTY SANDO SHOP 208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-422-0912 The sandwiches on the menu here are excellent, with options like The Mighty Burg (smash pat-

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ties, garlic-bacon mayo, white American cheese), The Hamela Anderson (ham, Swiss cheese, candied jalapeños), several vegetarian options and more. Bonus: This spot has a walk-up window. $ Dd 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 that’s incredibly meaty—piled high just like they do it in New York City delis. $   MYTHICAL ‘WICH 113 E. Main St., Branson, mythicalwich.com This sandwich shop comes from the owners of another Branson favorite: Gettin’ Basted. It offers 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 luscious banana pudding that we’re dying to try. $D THE SUB SHOP 1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-8873804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318077 The Fighter Pilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, banana peppers, lettuce and sub sauce. Be sure to try the sandwich specials (also known as the secret sandwiches); they are always creative and delish. Hit an ATM on the way there, because The Sub Shop is cash only. $  d

Chocolate with a Kick Askinosie Chocolate has released a new collaboration bar with popular chili-crisp brand Fly by Jing. The bar is named Slow Burn and features organic brown rice, Trinitario cocoa beans from the Philippines, and Sichuan oil. —Tessa Cooper

DESSERTS

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 (and gigantic) doughnuts, available 24 hours a day. A customer favorite is the maple-bacon bar, a huge, salty-sweet concoction that is oh-sodelish. Kids love the Cookie Monster with its bright blue icing, and the Nutella donut is a sure hit. But it’s not just donuts. You can also get shakes, freshly baked cookies, enormous apple fritters, and more. $

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com Frozen treats. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings (our staffers love the key lime pie and blackberry in the summer, and the apple pie and pumpkin pie in the fall). Try the Ozarks Turtle sundae, a classic concoction with caramel, hot fudge and toasty pecans. There are several sundae and concrete options, plus root beer floats and Italian ice pops. Or you can order your own creation. We like to get a sundae with raspberries, pecans and marshmallow fluff. $ d

LUCKY CAT BOBA TEA & TAIYAKI 3424 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-351-3136 Boba tea. There is a hefty 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 waffle-like cakes with tasty fillings that come in a variety of flavors like sweet red bean, Nutella, vanilla custard and more. If you want something savory, try the porkfilled steamed buns. $

BUTTERMILK 1458 E. Cherry St., Springfield, instagram. com/buttermilkrules Ice cream. Pastry chef Kyle Davis has brought made-from-scratch ice cream to the Rountree neighborhood. Hop over to the walk-up window at this adorable ice creamery to find flavors like espresso ice cream with chocolate crumble, blood orange sorbet, buttermilk ice cream with short bread and more. We love the ice cream sandwiches and the delightful fill choux buns too. You can’t miss. $ d

PARLOR DOUGHNUTS 1109 E. Battlefield Road, Ste. A, Springfield; 82 Branson Landing Blvd., Suite 105, Branson; parlordoughnuts.com Donuts. This spot is known for their “layered donuts,” which have a unique textures, are super-indulgent and come in a dozens of toppings-laden flavors. Our very favorite is teh coconut cream filled donut. You can also get keto-friendly donuts, vegan and gluten-free donuts, great espresso drinks, and savory breakfast items (like tacos). $ B  

PRAIRIE PIE 621 South Pickwick Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com Pie and cookies. Prairie Pie makes all-butter-crust pies in flavors that range from classic to inventive. The caramel apple pie is an elevated take on a classic and is quite popular. Any of owner Eleanor Taylor’s pies made with rhubarb are superb. You can get savory pot pies and slices of quiche too. Prairie Pie is located inside Taylor’s other business storefront, Tea Bar & Bites. $–$$ SOCIETEA 1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7204094, facebook.com/ societea. Boba tea. The matcha milk tea and the matcha roll cake are both must-try offerings. We love that you can customize the sweetness level of your drinks and top them with options we don’t see often at other boba tea spots (like big pieces of coffee jelly, or creamy cheese foam). Our favorite is the fresh strawberry milk tea with crystal boba. $ ST. GEORGE’S DONUTS 3628 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8817515; 3012 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417882-1718; 1415 W. State Highway J, Ozark, 417425-7885; stgeorgesdonuts.net Donuts. Lots of luscious doughnuts are made fresh daily here. We love the glazed blueberry and the oh-so-fresh chocolate cake donuts. $ d

DINERS BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND 1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291 Burgers. Billy Bob’s is a greasy-spoon institution that has long served de-

licious sweets and tasty American food on the strip in Branson. There are 24 flavors of fried pies here, cheeseburgers (pro tip: top them with grilled onions), foot-long hot dogs with chili and cheese and more. $ CASPER’S 937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-2277377, caspersdiner.com Chili. This local favorite is filled with bright colors and a kitschy vibe. The spot serves overflowing bowls of great chili and a few other yummy diner options (like burgers and hot dogs). Don’t forget to order some luscious chili cheese fries while you’re there. Another yummy favorite: ham and beans with cornbread when you can get it on special. $    DRUFF’S 331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-7191719, yumdruffs.com Grilled cheese. Druff’s brings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses, soups and creative sides. For a little heat, try the Good Doctor, made with cheddar, cream cheese, bacon and jalapeño, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a Nutella and strawberry grilled sando—it’s nuts. Druff’s also offers a robust brunch and breakfast menu. We love the breakfast bowls, especially the Swipe Right with eggs, hash browns, jalapenos, avocado, bacon and cheddar. $   IGGY’S DINER 2400 Grand Ave., Carthage, 417-237-0212, facebook.com/IggysDiner Diner fare. This retro spot has so many nostalgic vibes and is a popular stop along Route 66. Come for hearty fare like stackedhigh burgers with fries, creatively topped French toast, diner breakfast faves

(i.e. eggs, hashbrowns, all the good stuff), tall milkshakes and more. $  

INDIAN INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL 2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill.com Come to this yummy little spot on the Branson strip to indulge in some tasty Indian fare. We loved the karahi lamb (tender lamb, bell peppers and onion in a spicy sauce) and the mushroom aloo matar (mushrooms, potatoes and peas swimming in a creamy sauce). Stop by for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays to take advantage of the tasty buffet. $$  

You Bring the Party. We’ll Bring the Food. YOUR NEW OLD FAVORITE, NOW SERVING DINNER.

INDIA PALACE 1908 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-771-5270 The huge menu here offers Indian favorites and fun flavors you may not have tried. We love the pani puri appetizer, the samosa chaat and the lamb rogan josh. The mushroom masala is another fave that we order every time. Be sure to pop in for lunch on the weekends, when they offer a stacked buffet. $$   NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR 3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050 Find all your favorite classic Indian dishes here (the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are both excellent) along with some others you might not have seen around town before. For example, the gol gappay is a crispy little hollow fried ball filled with chickpeas, potato, onion and spices. We love the ras malai dessert: homemade cheese in a sweet, milky, cardamom-infused sauce. $$  

417-881-2389 4 1 2 3 S . NAT I O NAL AVE . S P R I N G F I ELD, MO .

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TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT 1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573 You can find all your Indian favorites here. There is a variety of naan bread (and it’s so, so soft and perfect), many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts like rice pudding and gulab jamun (donuts soaked in syrup). We are obsessed with the lamb rogan josh and the chicken jalfrezi, and the bhindi masala (an okra dish) is a favorite too. Be sure to try their lunch combos, which are a steal and always taste so good. $$   d ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE 311 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, 417-3514400, zaykaspringfield. com There’s a lot to love about this downtown Springfield Indian restaurant. The vegetable korma, chicken tikka masala and malai kofta are just a few of our favorite dishes. If you’re new to Indian food, try the pre-set combo meals that feature a lot of different flavors. For dessert, you can’t beat a bowl of gulab jamun sweet pastry balls. $–$$   d

ITALIAN AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING 3240 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-567-3463,avanzareitaliandining.com Pasta is always a hit at Avanzare, a longtime Springfield favorite. Veal dishes are top-notch at this Italian eatery, but you’ll have to pick the right night, as they’re only served once or twice a week. Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak and the pasta with seafood in a spicy tomato-based sauce. Indulge in the luscious chocolate torte for dessert. $$$  d 98

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BAMBINO’S CAFÉ 1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8814442; bambinoscafe.com This little Italian eatery serves hearty helpings of tasty Italian fare that won’t break the bank, available at two 417-land locations. We love The Ziti with its tomato cream sauce and tender braised beef. 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. $   d 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 offering of shellfish arancini. $$$  GILARDI’S 820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8626400, gilardisonwalnut. com Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little Italian restaurant that makes a wonderful date-night spot. Don’t miss the amazing meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce that are served over a bed of creamy goat cheese polenta. And be sure to dine in the outdoor seating area when the weather allows. Open Mon.–Sat., 5–10 p.m. $$$  d

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NICOLA’S RISTORANTE 3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8863700, 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

ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA 1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai offers 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. $$–$$$   d

NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ 306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-8311222, nonnascafe.net. The seafood lasagna is a musttry dish, and the spicy arrabbiata lasagna is crazy-good. And then there’s that drool-worthy deepfried 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 a top-notch dessert option. $$  

CRAFT SUSHI 251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417319-5887, facebook.com/ craftsushi At Craft 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 and veggie options. There’s a menu of some pre-designed poke bowls and sushi rolls too. $$  

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. $–$$   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 off 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

JAPANESE

seafood soup. Pair it with a little bit of nigiri or one of the spot’s tasty maki rolls. $$– $$$   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 while you’re there. $$   KAI 306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8320077, kaiafterdark.com This lounge-like restaurant in downtown Springfield has fantastic sushi. It has the same owners as Haruno, which is famous for their incredible rolls—so you know it’ll be delicious! Don’t miss the restaurant’s black cod or sea bass entrees with delicious wasabi risotto. They are just as impressive as the sushi rolls! There are some great cocktail and appetizer options here as well. $$–$$$   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 soft-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. $   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 tempura. $$   NIJI SUSHI 3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417-851-1707 In addition to a large variety of sushi rolls (we love the Cherry Blossom Roll and the Spicy Yummy Roll), this menu also boasts rainbow-bright cocktails and seven types of ramen soups. Come with friends so you can share and sample lots of rolls. For dessert, try the fluffy Japanese cheesecake. $$   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 appetizers and fun desserts like mitrurashi dango. $$   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 boxes are great too, packed with your choice of entree, California roll, rice, salad, miso soup, fruit, spring rolls, veggie tempura and ice cream. We recommend getting teriyaki salmon in your bento box; it’s always delish. $$   SUSHI VILLAGE 1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8901016, facebook.com/ springfieldsushivillage This cozy sushi spot has a warm date-night atmosphere with cherry blossoms and plants around every corner. All the sushi is fresh and flavorful, but some custom creations pack fun ingredient combos. $$  

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 offered on special at Bawi. $$  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. $ 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. $   d KUICK NOODLES 3165 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-901-1803 Get the Korean ramen shop experience here, where you can choose from a variety of instant ramen and make it yourself using special self-serve machines. You can add several toppings, grab a tasty drink, order a side of dumplings or a steambed bun, and more. The frozen dessert selection is a lot of fun; you’ll see some trending treats in the freezer case every time! $  

MEDITERRANEAN CRAVE MEDITERRANEAN CAFE 1111 E. Republic, Springfield, cravemediterraneancafe.com There’s so much good stuff on the menu here; share-

able 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. $$–$$$   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 soft 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. $   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 stuffed 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 made with Lebanese rose water. $–$$   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. $  

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. $$   CANTINA LAREDO 1001 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-3346052, cantinalaredo.com Cantina Laredo is a great option if you’re exploring Branson and have a hankering for Mexican food. Located on Branson Landing, it has a great view of the choreographed fountain and of Lake Taneycomo. We especially love the salsas. $$   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. $$   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

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is filled with succulent shredded beef. Don’t miss the Salvadorian pupusas stuffed with beans and cheese; they are delightful. The carnitas torta is also excellent. It’s huge and is stuffed with savory carnitas, topped with melted cheese, tomatoes, lettuce and mayo and then sandwiched between a pillowy bun. Need we say more? $ EL PARAISO MEXICAN KITCHEN 610 W. College St., Springfield, 417-7715641; 305 E. Chestnut St., Suite C, Strafford, 417736-0019; elparaisokitchen.com This Strafford-based Mexican restaurant now has an outpost in Downtown Springfield too. They are known for a great lineup of margaritas and all your favorite Mexican dishes. For an app, try the flaming cheese or the ceviche. For an entree, try the piña a la parrilla—a fresh pineapple bowl filled with grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, scallops, veggies and more. $$   HABANERO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT + CANTINA Locations in Springfield, Republic, Carthage and Joplin; habanerosmexicancantina.com Orginally in Carthage, this popular Mexican restaurant has expanded to three other Ozarks cities. Don’t miss the tender quesabirria tacos with rich consomme for dipping. The nachos, enchiladas and guacamole are hits too. While you’re there, try one of the hand-crafted margaritas. $$   LA PALOMA 3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7194484, dienlapaloma.com; 1425 W. Battlefield St., Springfield, 417-8892985, thelapaloma.com 100

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This spot offers a huge range of Mexican dishes including fish tacos, which are excellent. Battered and fried fish is topped with fresh pic de gallo, cabbage and a creamy chipotle sauce and then served with Mexican white rice. $–$$   d LUNA MODERN MEXICAN 2925 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-3501006, dineluna.com This spot serves delicious Mexican options like guacamole made tableside, fried plantains, quesabirria tacos, spicy Yucatan shrimp (our fave!) and lots more—including plenty of classic faves like enchiladas, quesadillas and more. $$   d MEXICAN VILLA Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net This spot is a favorite among longtime Springfield locals, and it is known for its sweet sauce served with tortilla chips. Also popular is the Sancho Enchilada Style—a huge burrito that is completely swimming in red enchilada sauce. Kids love the chicken fingers, and you can even purchase the sweet salsa in a jar to go. $d OXO BAR & GRILL 2550 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3069808, oxospringfield.com Try modern takes on Mexican street food, like pork belly street tacos, chorizo burritos, chilaquiles, aquachile, elote and more. Come on Saturday for Latin Night for Latin dancing. Brunch available on Sundays with items like morning tostadas. $$  d PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8901212; 5557 N. 21st St., 417MAG.COM

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 soft corn tortillas filled with steak, cilantro and onions and served with rice, beans and avocado. $–$$   PURPLE BURRITO 1700 S. Campbell Ave., Suite A, Springfield, 417863-6688 We love the street-style tacos. The pastor taco with onions and cilantro is great. And the fish tacos are some of our favorite fish tacos anywhere. A dinner favorite is the carne asada burrito. For something a little different and a lot indulgent, try the super-cheesy chili relleno burrito. It’ll fill you up, and it’s so delish. $    SEÑOR JULIAN MEXICAN BAR & GRILL 3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-240-2120 This tiny restaurant packs big flavors, with a menu that features traditional Mexican soups, handmade-to-order flour tortillas, quesabirria tacos, massive quesadillas, fajita baked potatoes and more. The tacos especiales are a favorite, filled with carne asada, cilantro, onions, queso fresco and avocado. If you like pozole, come on the weekends when they serve both that and menudo. Don’t miss the huge margaritas menu, featuring fun options like their mangonada margarita and a great selection of tequilas. $–$$   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 with their big flavors. $   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. $   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. $   

PIZZA ARRIS’ PIZZA 1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8817260, 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. $–$$  

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. $–$$   CARMINE’S WOODFIRED PIZZA 524 South Joplin Avenue, Joplin, 417-691-8523, carmineswoodfiredpizza. com New York–style. You can find truly excellent New York–style, Neapolitanstyle and Detroit-style pizza at Carmine’s. We love Neapolitan the best, and the La Rughetta topping combo (mozzarella, prosciutto, grape tomatoes, shaved Parmesan and arugula) is our favorite. Don’t miss the calzones, pasta dishes, and gelato while you are there. $$   CHERI’S HAPPY PLACE located at Metropolitan Grill, 2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417889-4951, 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. $$ 

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. $–$$   d IMO’S PIZZA 600 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-8621222; 636 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417886-4667; imospizza.com St. Louis–style. A true St. Louis–style original, Imo’s serves pizza on cracker-thin crust with lots of provel cheese. We like the tasty Deluxe pizza. But our favorite is the simple combo of mushrooms and Italian sausage. Or pineapple and jalapenos (and don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!). The cheesy bread is ridiculously indulgent and covered in a thick layer of melted provel cheese. $–$$   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 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. $$   d PAPPO’S PIZZERIA 221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8661111; 900 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417306-9091; pappospizzeria.com Stonebaked. Try the spicy chicken Cholula pie topped with a mixture of red sauce and olive oil, grilled chicken marinated in Cholula sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, red onions, cilantro. Also, be sure you try the meatballs. We really like the salads here as well. $–$$   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. $   ROCCO’S PIZZA & SUBS Multiple 417-land locations; roccospizzaandsubs. com New York–style. This Italian eatery specializes in New York–style pizza that has anybody who’s been to the east coast swooning. It’s legit. Also on the menu are hot subs, like meatball or eggplant Parmesan,

plus salads, calzones and a handful of pasta entrees. $–$$   SCHULTZ PIZZA + PUB 2210 W. Chesterfield St., Ste. 8683, Springfield, 417-885-0060, schultzpub.com Neopolitan. The pizzas here are made using cold-fermented dough, a sauce of San Marzano tomatoes and a special pizza oven. Try the Blanco Formaggio white pizza made with garlic oil and five cheeses. Also on the menu: smash burgers, hot sandwiches, chicken wings and more. Try the fried goat cheese balls appetizer too. $$  

PUBS & BARS BEFORE & AFTER BREWING 2940 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, beforeandafterbrewhouse 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. $$   BEST OF LUCK BEER HALL 313-B S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield; 417-5229009; bestofluckbeerhall. com This downtown beer hall combines backyard charm with killer food and more beers than you can count. If suds aren’t your thing, try a seasonal cocktail or one of the draft alcoholic punches. The extensive food menu includes flavor spins on cookout favorites, like juicy cheddarwurst brats, salty shoestring fries with dipping sauces, and kimchi-spiked fried chicken sandwiches. $$    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-crafted 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. $ $   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. $    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. $ $   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 a great place to stop by for a drink (they have excellent cocktails and a great wine and whiskey selection), and they also offer a rotating menu of small plates and appetizers. We loved the short rib sliders and the strawberry-infused Paper Plane cocktail. $–$$ d THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB 137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-4255162, thegoldengirl.com This rum bar on the southwest corner of Park Central Square (with a great people-watching patio space) serves handcrafted cocktails and a madefrom-scratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. The pizza specials always come topped with creative ingredients for a seriously delicious and shareable pie. As for drinks, everything on the menu is reliably well-done. Our favorite: Mr Guava Lava, which is both fruity and spicy. $   d GOOD SPIRITS & CO. 1424 E. Cherry St., Suite A, Springfield, goodspiritsandco.com The owners of Good Spirits & Co. are behind some great local food and drink concepts (like The Golden Girl Rum Club, Sweet Boy’s Neighborhood Bar, Cherry Picker Package & Fare and Best of Luck Beer Hall), and their chic headquarters on Cherry Street is home to fun foodand-drink events. Check their website fro things like monthly Supper Club dinners, seasonal cocktail events and more. $$–$$$ 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

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Codi Brah falafel sandwich, and the pepperoni pizza balls. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the Office Crush, made with Rittenhouse Rye, housemade peach and black tea syrup, lemon juice and peach puree. $$   LINDBERG’S TAVERN 318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688900, lindbergsbar.com Forget about basic bar food. This storied watering hole offers creative takes on hearty comfort food classics. The burgers are delicious, the specials are always creative, and the Sunday brunch reliably delish. $   d THE ROYAL 1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, theroyalmusichall.com This tiny and beautiful spot serves well-crafted cocktails, bottled cocktails and finger foods like warm olives or rosemary and bitters glazed nuts. Be sure to visit when there is live music; the intimate setting makes for a great experience. $  SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY 305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-8328277, springfieldbrewingco.com Try the fish and chips paired with the beers that are brewed on-site. Also delicious are the burgers and the mac and cheese. Live music. $$    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 102

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some of the small plates, like portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. $$–$$$   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. $    VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY 260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8511768; rooftopvantage. com This rooftop bar at Hotel Vandivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and even offers 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, 417-8238383 The former Touch Restaurant & Oyster 417MAG.COM

Bar retains some standby dishes like bacon-wrapped dates and chicken Bijan in its new iteration as Char Steakhouse & Oyster Bar (owned by the same people), but offerings of Waygu steaks, lamb shank and fish dishes up the ante. 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. Be sure to sample Char’s cocktails, or something off the extensive wine list. $$$  d FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR 314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8624444, flamesteakhouse. com The restaurant specializes in dry-aged steaks that are truly delicious. Don’t miss the lobster macaroni and cheese (we’re serious; you have to try this stuff). The desserts are always divine, and we can’t get enough of the appetizer menu. $$$  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 stuffed Peppadew peppers are a must-try appetizer; trust us, you need to taste those things! The peppers are stuffed with cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. And if you love a good salad bar, Jimm’s has one of the best. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the offmenu smothered rib-eye for a little decadence. Desserts are always a treat here as well. $$–$$$ 

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. $$$   RED OAK STEAKHOUSE Downstream Casino Resort, 69300 E. Nee Road, Quapaw, Oklahoma, 1-888-3967876, downstreamcasino. com Dry-aged prime steaks are served in this restaurant’s fine-dining atmosphere. The sides are delicious too, with options like garlic potato puree and truffle creamed corn. Be sure to try the charcuterie board with all the usual goodies plus some house-made jam. After your steakhouse dinner, hop over to the casino for some gaming fun. $$  SALTGRASS STEAKHOUSE 801 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-3340325, saltgrass.com This spot serves classic steakhouse fare, but with a bit of a Southwest cowboy twist. Try the center-cut filet topped with sautéed mushrooms, or the loaded cheese fries appetizer. If you’re in the mood for southern comfort food, they also have country fried steak. It’s on Branson Landing, so you can walk off your dinner by shopping. $$–$$$  

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. $$$  WILL’S CHOP HOUSE 2058 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8696947, willschophouse. com The menu here features wagyu and Japanese A5 steaks, along with a variety of seafood dishes inspired by New Orleans and South Texas. The Gulf Flounder Opelousas features blackened flounder and Creole cream sauce with shrimp, crab and oysters. $$$  D

TEA ROOMS BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM 1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417866-5533, bethsbakeshoppe.com Try a chicken salad sandwich—served on cinnamon raisin bread. And we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette, and the gigantic couscous salad loaded with veggies and Feta. $  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. $ 

SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM 107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331 The homemade desserts are to die for. Be sure to order one of these beloved treats quickly before they run out—like you might want to order them before you order entrees! Don’t miss the veggie sandwich, strawberry soup or chicken salad. $ 

THAI EVERYDAY THAI 220 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-770-0147, 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. For an appetizer, we love sharing the chicken satay or ordering a few crispy spring rolls. $–$$   RAMA THAI CAFÉ 2808 S. Campbell Ave.; 1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8653204 This restaurant, located inside a charming old house on Historic Walnut Street, features a menu full of delicious Thai tastes in a cozy atmosphere with a shady patio out back. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig into the entrees with an order of delicious curry noodles or a spicy curry option. $–$$   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! $–$$  

THAI THAI CUISINE 1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com If you’re looking for soem great Thai food during a trip to Branson, stop here. Thai Thai Cuisine offers really great Thai food and a sweet staff. The panang curry is delicious, and it’s served on a little bed of fresh spinach. $–$$   THAI GARDEN 3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8895280, thaigardenspringfield.com There are so many great Thai options here, like the lime-forward and so-tender nam tok beef, big and shareable bowls of noodle soup, classic stir fry and curry options and lots more. Get the fried bananas or Thai custard for dessert. If it’s in season, the mango sticky rice is a must-try. $   THAI SQUARE 307 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-7715300, facebook.com/ Thaisquare307 From the folks who owner Rama Thai (and located just around the corner from it), Thai Square offers an excellent menu of Thai food favorites. Our favorite dish is the salmon choo chee, but the spicy papaya salad and the traditional pad Thai are both tied for a close second. $$   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. $  

VIETNAMESE BÁHN MÌ & ME 3405 E Battlefield Road, Suite 124, Springfield, 417-590-8500 This tasty spot is owned by a mother-and-daughter duo from Vietnam. Their banh mi sandwiches (in both classic and unexpected varieties) are the star of the show, but we love all the coffee drinks just as much. They are made using a Vietnamese phin, and the one with ube cold foam is to-diefor. Don’t miss the noodle bowls or the fresh spring rolls. $– $ $ B   HONG YEN 301 W. Battlefield., Springfield, 417-3513915, facebook.com/ hongyenrestaurant. Come to Hong Yen when you’re in search of excellent beef pho. 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. $   d PHO KIM 3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, phokimspringfield.com Here you can fill up on Vietnamese staples like pho, spring rolls, a variety of bahn mi sandwiches and more. The chicken fried rice is extra crispy, and the chicken pho is just as tasty as the classic beef variety here. We love the fresh spring rolls. $   PHO SAIGON 2640 E. 32nd St., Joplin, 417-627-9966 Come to this spot to indulge in fresh spring rolls, vermicelli noodles, and big helpings of pho with lots of fresh veggies on the side. You can also order boba tea with toppings like tapioca pearls, coffee jelly, egg pudding, popping boba and more. $  

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Ladies Who Launch More than 800 women spent an inspiring day together at Biz 417’s Ladies Who Launch regional women’s leadership conference. Pictured: Mallory Barnes, Elizabeth Van Ness Continued on p. 107 >>

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The Doula Foundation Night of Caring The Night of Caring banquet raises funds and awareness to provide free programs for families in need through pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood.

Date: September 18 Benefiting Organization: The Doula Foundation Location: Highland Springs Country Club 5

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Ladies Who Launch

Date: August 13–14, 2026

Biz 417 hosted Ladies Who Launch, a two-day leadership event that brought together more than 800 women for inspiration and motivation. The event wrapped with the reveal of its new brand, Pretty Brilliant, a new event name and platform designed to inspire and engage women in our community.

Location: Branson Convention Center Sponsors: Biz 417, Central Bank/Central Trust, Mercy, Forvis Mazars, Husch Blackwell and Reliable Lexus

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GIVE A LITTLE LOCAL LOVE. Ozarks pride, wrapped up and ready to gift. New hats, tees and everyday staples for the fans on your list—or the fan in you.

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Bring 417 Magazine on your next adventure—whether you’re traveling or exploring close to home.

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Charlie Smith and Nathan Inman 3. Fairbanks, Alaska Dan Scott and Brooke Scott 4. Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium,

Columbia, Missouri Gary Whitaker and Joan Whitaker 5. Roosevelt Arch, Gardiner, Montana Terron Toler, Charleigh Toler, and Keith Toler

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Oh, One More Thing

Many of you may know Katie Kring as a chef, baker and culinary instructor at Pickwick & Cherry. But this true Renaissance woman is also a talented choral singer and professional composer who has written several operas and musicals. B Y T E S S A C OOPE R

“WHEN I HIRE OTHER PEOPLE TO TEACH CLASSES, I HIRE PERFORMERS.” —KATIE KRING

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We’ve heard you get to travel quite a bit thanks to your composing work. How does experiencing new cultures impact your work as a musician and a baker? Being an interested person in the world is constantly influencing my writing. Whether it’s meeting people, singing music, listening to music, or just going to things, everything goes into the wood chipper. You never know what will come out the other end, and then what you will build with the resulting particle board… On the food end, it’s the same thing. Travel is how you put new mulch in the grinder, or whatever other terrible analogy you want to use.

P H O TO C O U R T E SY K AT I E K R I N G

If you had to make a Venn diagram of the qualities required for your work at Pickwick & Cherry and your work with music, what would be some of the ones that would overlap? Having endless curiosity and a willingness to go down rabbit holes… I will freely tell you I am not the best chef in Springfield by a long shot. But I have a very specific skill set that allows me to be entertaining for three hours. I can be educational, be funny, and also get dinner done with a bunch of people who have maybe had a couple of beers. When I hire other people to teach classes, I hire performers. It is a performance gig.

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