Your guide to pumpkin patches, small-town festivals, vivid autumn color and more
This is your guide to experiencing the best 417-land has to offer this season—from pumpkin patches and football games to fall festivals and vivid autumn color. on the cover: Trick or treaters line up in Springfield’s festive Rountree neighborhood.
This issue planted 109 trees through PrintReleaf
Read why we love the YungSung Hero from Ariake on p.94.
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE POLLOCK ESTES editor@417mag.com
MANAGING EDITOR & BUSINESS EDITOR DORI GRINDER dori@417mag.com
RESEARCH EDITOR JO JOLLIFF jo@417mag.com
CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS EDITOR & STAFF WRITER JORDAN BLOMQUIST jblomquist@417mag.com
EDITORIAL INTERNS MOLLY HAYNES, EMMA ZAWACKI
CREATIVE DIRECTOR SARAH PATTON sarah@417mag.com
ART DIRECTOR JORDAN DYKSTRA jordan@417mag.com
SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER BRANDON ALMS brandon@417mag.com
PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER KATY ST. CLAIR kstclair@417mag.com
DESIGN INTERN ALEX GODDARD
PHOTOGRAPHY & SOCIAL MEDIA INTERN TAYLOR COLLINS
DIGITAL EDITOR JAMIE THOMAS jthomas@417mag.com
DIGITAL MANAGER ELIZABETH VANFOSSON evanfosson@417mag.com
CONTRIBUTORS ABOUT FACES PHOTOGRAPHY, JOSHUA BEECHER, GRACE CHIPLEYTHOMPSON, TESSA COOPER, JOSH KINGHAM, HEATHER KOHLER, RYAN KOWALSKI, MORGAN LEA PHOTOGRAPHY, BEN NICKELSON, AMY RAY-HESS, KRISTIN SHARP, TARYN SHORR-MCKEE, ELLA TATTERSHALL, CHUCK TRAVERS, DAN WILLIAMS, BRAD ZWEERINK
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For some of us at the office, fall is our favorite season. Temperatures are (usually) just right, and fall festivals are underway. To help you organize your ‘ber months, we’ve got a list of the best fall festivals kicking off across 417-land. Head to 417mag. com/fallfests to see what’s happening where and when.
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On p. 32 you can read about our experience inviting the Midwest Ghosthunters into the FourOneSeven office to conduct a paranormal investigation. That’s right, our office (at least according to some on our team) might be haunted, we actually invited a team to investigate and you can read all about what happened. Not only that, but there’s more content online if you want some extra details, including a Q&A with members of the
Midwest Ghosthunters team and maybe even a way to listen to some of the low-key creepy audio that was recorded on the night. Find the whole story online at 417mag. com/ghosthunt.
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The most macabre season of the year is here, which means it’s almost time to suit up in your best (or worst, depending on what you’re going for) costume to take the kids, grandkids, nephews or nieces on a trick or treating trip. Every year we list the best neighborhoods to visit, which you can find at 417mag.com/ trickortreat.
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Worried about how your garden or outdoor space is going to fare when things get frosty? Want to keep your garden growing year-round? We’ve got a guide to which plants to plant, and when, to keep your home blooming all year
that we’ve recently updated for fall. Head to 417mag.com/ whattoplant for all the details.
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Celebrate the best of 417-land’s business community at Biz 417 ’s annual Biz 100 Party on November 12, 2025, at BMW of Springfield. Raise a glass to the people leading the Ozarks into the future and hear from Biz 417 ’s 2025 Person of the Year! Get tickets at biz417.com/rsvp.
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Feeling stressed about perimenopause, menopause and all things hot flashes, mood swings and more? You’re not alone. Perimenopause and menopause can cause a lot of frustrations. And we get it. That’s why we’ve created Hot Flash Happy Hour! Join 417 Magazine for an evening of education, comedy, cocktails at more on October 23. Find details at 417mag.com/hotflash.
Visit 417mag.com/ newsletters to sign up for the best local newsletters. Table Talk brings you don’tmiss food news every Tuesday, Datebook offers the top weekend events every Thursday, and House of 417 is your monthly passport to inspired living.
The December issue of 417 Magazine is all about everybody’s favorite family members: pets! Be the first to get your paws on it by subscribing at 417mag. com/subscribe.
We are a proud member of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the Ozark Chamber of Commerce, the Branson Chamber and Convention & Visitors Bureau, the City and Regional Magazine Association, the Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce, the Home Builders Association of Springfield and the Republic Area Chamber of Commerce.
As my kids get older and start to try their hands at different clubs and activities, our family calendar gets more and more chaotic. Last fall, I had a head full of local seasonal activities I wanted to do with my husband and kids, but very few of those things made it out of my mind and onto our schedules.
I was determined not to let that happen this year.
As soon as the school year started in August and my kids decided on extra-curriculars, I busted out an old-fashioned desktop-size paper calendar and started filling it in. My husband, Eli, and I decided to load it up with every community event and outdoor activity we were even mildly interested in. Then, when the weekends rolled around, we could decide what to do. We’d have options. Decision fatigue: banished. Fun police: fired. Boredom: I don’t know her.
I’m sure we’ll have weekends here and there when we opt out of all our preplanned possibilities and choose to plant tulip bulbs, or clean the gutters, or wear jammies all day while we bake and read
books. Those homebody moments are perfectly fine every now and then. But the goal with that big ol’ paper calendar was to strike the phrase, “Is there anything happening this weekend?” from our vocabularies, at least for a season, and make it super-easy to just pick up and go.
If you need a little inspiration to help you do the same, turn to the October calendar on p. 38 and then the “Live Your Best Fall Life” cover story that starts on p. 78.
I promise you’ll find plenty of options there. Even more can be delivered directly to your inbox every Thursday too, if you sign up for our weekly Datebook e-newsletter. I scour local events each week to find the best stuff to do—so you can banish “Is there anything happening this weekend?” from your vocabulary too.
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE@417MAG.COM
Yes, Chef!
Thank you, 417 Magazine, for the wonderful feature on Ariake restaurant’s omakase. Your explanation was clear, and the photos were beautifully captured. As an omakase chef, I feel truly proud and grateful for the recognition.
JOHN JUNG, CO-OWNER OF ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA
We have been subscribers to 417 Magazine since the magazine was first published, and we would like to thank you all for your consideration in publishing one of our attached photos in your Where’s 417? section. We also appreciate the assistance of your staff in allowing us to borrow a copy of the April 2023 issue “Our Favorite State Parks” that we used in our photos. My father was Missouri State Senator Emory Melton... He was honored following his service as State Senator by the naming of at that time the new hotel/restaurant/conference center lodge facility in Roaring River State Park, the Emory Melton Inn and Conference Center.
STAN MELTON
We were more than happy to lend Stan Melton a copy of the “Our Favorite State Parks” and loved hearing about his family’s local connections. You can see the photo he took at Roaring River State Park with his wife, Cindy Melton, on p. 119.—Editor
To send us feedback or story ideas, email editor@417mag.com.
Oof. We can’t believe we have to say this, but we got the date of our own Hot Flash Happy Hour (a new event all about the humor and real talk surrounding perimenopause and menopause) wrong in the September 2025 issue. The correct date is October 23. We regret the error.
hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, brain fog… these are the topics my friends and I are constantly talking about—or at least sending funny memes about. I hadn’t even heard the term perimenopause until a year or two ago. Around the time I found myself buying one of those supersized AM/PM pill cases, it seemed like the topics of menopause, hormones and all the side effects were everywhere.
For all the talk and questions, there are often few answers. When I started digging into why I felt this way—and what I could do about it—I realized we had really good experts in this field right here in 417-land. In fact, I learned about many of them through their advertising partnerships with us.
Then I thought: We should have an event about this! One where we can ask questions, get some answers, laugh a lot and leave feeling energized. Basically, the best kind of girls’ night. I hope you’ll join me for Hot Flash Happy Hour on Thursday, October 23 at Hickory Hills Country Club, where I’ll lead a panel discussion with experts from Skin Bar, Serotonin Center and DermaHealth, and we’ll end the night with a hilarious comedian. Pack your fan and join us!
PUBLISHER LOGAN@417MAG.COM
Armed with as much bravery as we could muster, Digital Editor Jamie Thomas, Photographer Katy St. Clair and Design Intern Alex Goddard spent a Saturday evening ghost hunting at the FourOneSeven office. A team from Midwest Ghosthunters set up a motion-detecting laser grid, 12 microphones, and several cameras to capture evidence of our alleged office ghost, who the staff has lovingly named Mildred. Several hours and a few jump scares later, we left with data, questions and for some of us, the remaining shreds of our dignity.
AT THE BOOK BURROW IN DOWNTOWN LEBANON, BEST FRIENDS TURNED BUSINESS PARTNERS SERVE UP MOODY DECOR AND INDIE BOOKS.
BY TARYN SHORR-MCKEE
What began as a longtime dream between two book-loving best friends has become one of Lebanon’s most charmingly offbeat local businesses. Courtney Gann and Krystal Stewart opened The Book Burrow in January 2025 with the intention of making it equal parts indie bookstore and cozy hangout. Think Gilmore Girls meets dark academia—all heart, with a witchy soul and rapidly growing fan base.
The duo met in hair school over 20 years ago, but weren’t exactly fond of one another at first. Everything changed when they discovered a mutual Harry Potter obsession. The shop’s name, a nod to the Weasley family home in the series, pays tribute to that moment—and the shared literary love that sparked a friendship, a decade-plus of doing hair side by side, the aptly named Scissor Sisters podcast and now, a bookstore. “It’s always been books,” Gann says.
Gann and Stewart didn’t set out to create a side hustle. The two still work at Tribe Sa-
lon, which Gann opened in 2017 and now anchors the back half of the building, and they’d long fantasized about a bookstore of their own. An October 2024 trip to Salem, Massachusetts, sealed the deal: They returned home and transformed the front of the salon into their dream bookshop. The pair pitched the concept to their skeptical husbands and remodeled, painting and knocking down walls. “We just did it,” Gann laughs. “No one should take business advice from us, honestly—we had a ‘we’ll just figure it out’ attitude. And we did.”
The Book Burrow opened with around 800 books. Within four hours, more than 500 sold, bringing in over $9,000. Two days later, the store was nearly cleaned out. Today, it greets visitors with black walls, a once-hidden fireplace and shelves packed with hard-to-find indie authors spanning everything from dark romance and fantasy to true crime and literary fiction. Local makers supply most of the shop’s merch and gifts, including herbal tinctures, custom journals and fan-favorite T-shirts featuring quotes from rare one-star reviews. One top seller: “Waste of space and creepy decor.” Stewart puts a positive spin on it and calls the review “the perfect tagline.”
The store’s success is partly thanks to Gann and Stewart’s podcast, which always opens with a book review, and partly thanks to their shared passion and chemistry. “We’re yin and yang,” Stewart says. “She’s the risk-taker, I’m the realist.”
Gann adds, “We’re like the perfect human together.”
It helps that their friendship goes far beyond work—or, perhaps, why their friendship goes far beyond work. Their families vacation together in Anna Maria Island, Florida, every year. They take an annual girls’ trip to Universal Studios to “nerd out” in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. And they have been in the same book club for 15 years.
Another piece of The Book Burrow’s magic? More than a bookstore, it’s a place to linger, to cozy into. With fall and spooky season officially upon us—what Stewart says “perfectly fits our vibe” and Gann calls the shop’s “time to shine”—the pair is busy hosting The Book Burrow’s new book club and themed events like a Twilight 20th anniversary midnight release party, book bedazzling nights and community collabs with their downtown neighbors. And they’re just getting started. “We want to be one of those destination bookstores people travel to,” Gann says. “And we’ll still be here, little old ladies slingin’ books.”
Stewart agrees: “We didn’t want to be just a place that sells books. We don’t consider this work…it’s our dream job.”
THROUGH HOPE FOUNDATION, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR KANDICE WHITE SUPPORTS FAMILIES AND PARENTS FINANCIALLY AND EMOTIONALLY WHEN THEIR CHILDREN FACE SERIOUS ILLNESS.
BY EMMA ZAWACKI
Jessica keeton and her husband Kasey never planned to temporarily move to Memphis to treat their 2-year-old daughter Ellie’s stage three brain cancer at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. But Springfield-based HOPE Foundation did.
The HOPE Foundation helps families with expenses they categorize as “everyday bills” like rent, utilities and gas, among other things. Kandice White, founder and executive director, and Kasey know from first hand experience how things like mortgage payments are put on the back burner when your kid is sick. Their daughter was diagnosed with stage four cancer in 2007. “We discovered that there was a gap in the resource system for families like ours,” White
says. “We just decided to fill that gap [and] bridge that gap between other organizations and insurance. Where they fall short, we help fill in to help these families get through these financial situations.”
Sometimes filling in looks like lending a listening ear to the parents and sometimes it looks like giving families a lifeline so they can afford to be with their kid.
Throughout the first months of Ellie’s chemo and radiation treatments, Keeton and Kasey were able to stay with Ellie in Memphis. The HOPE Foundation helped them cover their bills during this time. “Her treatment was so intense, it took both of us to be there,” Keeton says.
For families and mothers
like Keeton, it’s more than just a helping hand. “It is like a weight lifted off your shoulders knowing that you have something to fall back onto,” Keeton says.
The beauty of this foundation lies in the broadness of what it can help with. Unlike insurance and other organizations that can pay for portions of treatments or help with lodging, the HOPE Foundation keeps their wording broad and their impact large.
When starting the foundation, it was important to White and her husband that the bylaws were vague to ensure their board would have the opportunity to decide what was categorized as a “pediatric emergency” in order to help as many people as possible.
“We cover those hardwood floors for a kiddo that was in an accident and permanently in a wheelchair,” White says. “Those aren’t things that you think about and there’s no organization that I’m aware of out there that covers those kinds of things. He can’t roll around on carpet, so we covered to have all new hardwood flooring put in.”
On top of providing financial support so families can focus on helping their children, the HOPE Foundation also provides something invaluable: understanding. “They know what you’re going through because they’ve done it,” Keeton says. “They know the feeling, they know the loneliness.”
White and her husband know the unknown because they’ve lived it. When their daughter was going through treatment in Memphis, White was without a job for almost a year. Being a mother became her fulltime role as she focused on her daughter’s health. This memory fuels White and her dedication to helping families dealing with similar situations.
Every year, the HOPE Foundation supports anywhere from 30 to 50 families, giving them a sliver of peace of mind while they navigate unimaginable hardships. Around 85% of the families they assist are on Medicaid and are living paycheck to paycheck. “We are not nationwide; we are not statewide,” White says. “When you donate dollars, it goes right to your community.”
Kevin and Natalie Ballard
GOLDEN HOUR JEWELERS is redefining what retail can be. Inside their thoughtfully designed space, clients discover much more than fine jewelry. The boutique offers Parisian handbags, William Henry knives, custom design services and professional appraisals.
With more than 30 years of combined experience, the team brings global expertise and an eye for investmentquality, one-of-a-kind pieces. Their clientele is diverse— a young couple searching for the perfect engagement ring, a seasoned collector seeking something rare or a partner looking for a meaningful anniversary gift. What connects them is the desire for a private, luxury experience where the focus is entirely on them.
Golden Hour’s philosophy is simple: Treat every guest the way they would want to be treated. That principle shapes
every detail, from the curated displays to the warm, personalized service. While the jewelry itself is extraordinary, what sets Golden Hour apart is the way clients feel during their visit—valued, understood and inspired.
Whether the client is selecting a timeless piece or simply exploring, each visit is designed to be memorable. At Golden Hour Jewelers, the shopping experience is reimagined as something more intimate, more personal and ultimately unforgettable.
GRASSROOTS
GARDENER’S ORCHARD HAS THE SWEETEST HISTORY. THIS FUN-FILLED FAMILY EXPERIENCE IS THE PERFECT WAY TO SPEND A FALL DAY SURROUNDED BY THOSE YOU LOVE.
BY MOLLY HAYNES
Located in the town of Brighton, Gardener’s Orchard is a pickyour-own-produce farm that focuses on creating a little escape from life. Gardener’s was founded on the principle of a steadfast commitment to the community and pursuing a long-held dream.
The story of the Gradinariu family coming to own the orchard begins long before they set foot there. Verginia Gradinariu and her husband immigrated to the United States from Romania in 1990 and stumbled upon the orchard. Now Verginia and her adult children Ana and Andre op-
erate the orchard together. In addition to Ana and Andre, the other Gradinariu siblings help with the day-to-day operations of the orchard. Their sister, Aurora, works as the food director and as a pastry chef.
“The original orchard was planted by Cliff and Sue Plaster back in 1980,” Andre says. “In the fall of 2013, we purchased the farm from Cliff. In 2014 we were just selling fruit in the fall and peaches, then we realized there weren’t many fruit farms or orchards in the area, so we thought we could capitalize on planting more.”
When their father passed away in 2021, the Gradinariu siblings and Verginia were trying to find ways to keep the farm going for years to come. They wanted to honor
BY
the memory of their father and wanted to keep the dream their parents brought with them to America alive.
After talking with the other farmers in the area, the family put their heads together and brainstormed different ways for customers to become more involved in the orchard during their visits. “We added fun activities for the kids and different food items,” Ana says.
Since opening the you-pick orchard, the family has created jump pads, a mega slide, apple blasters, a train for kids called “The Orchard Express” and a quirky ride called The Piggly Wiggly. The family also decided to add a now extremely popular bakery along with the lively activities on the property. The bakery is run by Aurora, and she produces yummy treats year-round for Gardener’s. With seasonal goodies, like strawberry lava cups in the spring and apple cider doughnuts in the fall, the bakery is popular among visitors, and her baking Instagram page alone has gained over 300,000 followers.
“She spoils us with treats,” Ana says.
With fall upon us, the Gradinariu family is already in the thick of their autumn festive endeavors for the farm. Throughout the month of October the farm hosts its annual Pumpkin Festival on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from noon–7 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at gardenersorchardandbakery.com.
“We plant pumpkins at the end of June, so all the pumpkins are ready to harvest in October,” Ana says. “Waiting for them to grow and seeing them is satisfying.”
Looking to the future, the family reflects on what they hope to see for Gardener’s Orchard and what it means to them that the farm has come this far.
“I would love to see the next generation take over the farm,” Ana says. “I want to leave a legacy and create passion for the younger generations.”
WE TAGGED ALONG WITH A LOCAL GHOST-HUNTING GROUP ON A PARANORMAL INVESTIGATION IN OUR OWN (POSSIBLY) HAUNTED OFFICE.
BY JAMIE THOMAS
Do you believe in ghosts? some are true believers, others are skeptics: I class myself as a want-to-be-believer. I don’t really believe, but I’d love to be proven wrong. So when the opportunity to write a story about ghost hunting arose, I wasn’t going to say no. I reached out to Springfield-based Midwest Ghosthunters, a team of investigators who have explored multiple locations and
host a regular podcast recorded at Pythian Castle, to see if I could join them on an investigation. Because a lot of their investigations take place at residential properties, they can be complicated to arrange. After a few failed attempts to coordinate, I had an idea. What about our ghost? That’s right, the FourOneSeven office has its own ghost. Or, at least it seems that way to several people on our team. A bit of background first.
Since starting at FourOneSeven in 2019, I’ve heard multiple stories about spooky encounters with a ghost affectionately named Mildred. More often than not, these encounters amount to someone hearing shuffling when no one else is around, faucets in the bathrooms mysteriously being turned on, the feeling of not being alone and,
strangely, phantom typing. Who or what Mildred is, or if there’s anything really going on, none of us know. Maybe inviting paranormal investigators to the office was the way to find out.
Co-founder Chris Johnson and investigator John Kimmons were the first at the office, soon followed by co-founder Dustin Johnson and investigator Hunter Essary. After a quick tour of the office and some background on where noises were heard and sensations were sensed, the team began the lengthy process of setting up their equipment. A lot of equipment. Sections of the office were soon decorated with spools of cables running from one chunky, button-and-dial-festooned device to another. Audio recorders were placed on surfaces from one end of the building to another, and standing microphones were propped up to capture sounds from throughout the space. The team used electromagnetic field (EMF) readers to measure fluctuations in the environmental electromagnetic field. Perhaps the most impressive was a laser grid to detect movement set up in the corner of the office most associated with various sounds and sensations. A corner of the office that, funnily enough, is where I sit.
One thing that struck me about the Midwest Ghosthunters team was their consistent skepticism. There were no Ouija Boards or bundles of sage, no charms or trinkets, none of the more mystical totems associated with hunting evidence of the paranormal. Chris Johnson and Kimmons explained that their priority is to rule out any other possibility before landing on the paranormal.
With that out of the way, on to what happened. The lights were turned off and blinds were closed, plunging the office into darkness. A thick quiet settled on things as the team’s work began. The primary focus was on gathering audio with devices set up to capture video footage just in case, too. From around 7 p.m. the waiting began. An element of the more grounded paranormal investigations is that they’re often boring. Sitting, waiting, asking questions into the
“ What about our ghost? That’s right, I bet you didn’t know the FourOneSeven office has its own ghost. Or, at least it seems that way to several people on our team.”
void and listening intently requires a lot of patience. So we sat (or stood, or occasionally paced) patiently (or nervously, depending on who you ask) waiting for signs of the afterlife. The office took on a new character in the quiet dark. Shadowed, empty cubicles; yawning, darkened doorways; gloom-shrouded hallways lit by the ominous red glow of the back door exit sign; the dimming light of the waning evening slanting in through closed blinds and fading as we waited. The usually lively and productive space turned into a liminal abstraction of something familiar.
There were also the sounds.
If you’ve never spent an extended period being quiet in a mostly empty building, you might be surprised at how noisy a building is. The HVAC periodically thrumming to life, fridges popping and rattling as motors groan on and off, doors making quiet creaks as the air outside cools. They are all things that could easily be misheard as footsteps or movements when no one is around. Perhaps those of us in the office who put the spooky stories down to everyday explanations had been right the whole time.
But that wouldn’t explain what the recorders picked up. At the time of writing, the team is currently going through the hours of raw audio they recorded to try and clean up or explain away things their equipment caught, so you’ll have to check out the updated version of this story online for those. I can, however, tell you what we heard.
Staff Photographer Katy St. Clair, Intern Alex Goddard and I were standing in the
doorway of Creative Director Sarah Patton’s office when there was the distinctive creak of someone sitting in the hard plastic chair directly behind the three of us.
Katy reacted the way a cat reacts to a popping balloon, immediately leaping from the doorway and into a nearby cubicle wall, while I poked my head into the office. All I saw was a chair.
Chris took the opportunity to conduct a quick recording in Sarah’s office. With the recorder active, he asked if there was anyone in there with him. And it seemed like he got a response. Chris played the recording back for us after listening to it himself. We all agreed that it certainly sounded like a man quietly whispering “yeah” in reply.
The investigation wrapped up after roughly three-and-a-half hours. The team members reported some of the other things they had seen or heard that stood out to them throughout the investigation: shadows, the sounds of footsteps from the ceiling and a few more quiet whispers and murmurs on the audio equipment. And there was a sound that Katy has reported in the past: the distinctive sound of rapid typing on a keyboard.
I had expected the investigation to be thoroughly uneventful. Instead, it was a surprisingly strange experience that will probably only feed the spooky stories of the FourOneSeven office entity. On a personal note, although Katy St. Clair certainly won’t agree with me, I think that’s a good thing. Life’s more fun when it’s a little strange.
Head to 417mag.com/ghosthunt to read more details about the evening, plus a Q&A with the Midwest Ghosthunters. You can also hear me talk about the investigation on the Midwest Ghosthunters’ Dark Matter podcast (be ready for some colorful language, the team doesn’t hold back) along with the audio they recorded at our office at mwghosthunters.com.
If you want to hear stories of the supernatural occurrences at FourOneSeven’s office directly from our team, check us out on Instagram @417mag.
Read about the 2025 Springfield Public Schools Hall of Fame list-makers who got their start in the Ozarks and have gone on to make a difference in the world.
Each year, springfield public schools recognizes graduates who exemplify excellence, service, innovation and integrity.
The 2025 Hall of Fame inductees share a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Whether through groundbreak-
ing achievements, public service or creative contributions, they have each used their talents to enrich their communities and uplift those around them.
SPS graduates Nancy Allen, Ken McClure and Warren Robinett will be inducted into the Hall of Fame during a luncheon Thursday, October 16, at
White River Conference Center. Their accomplishments reflect the many pathways to success that began in SPS classrooms and now serve as inspiration to a new generation of young students.
Ken McClure
Parkview High School, Class of 1968
For more than 50 years, Ken McClure has been a steady and guiding presence in public service, devoted to building a better future for his community and state. As Springfield’s four-term mayor, McClure led with a focus on public safety, economic growth and quality of life. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he united leaders across health care, education, business and faith-based organizations to coordinate a response that supported and protected local residents.
His leadership helped secure the city’s purchase of Hammons Field, ensuring the Springfield Cardinals would remain a treasured part of the community. Earlier in his career, as Chief of Staff to Missouri Governor Matt Blunt, McClure helped lead the 2005 campaign to rename Southwest Missouri State University—negotiating through an all-night Missouri State Senate filibuster to secure the change to Missouri State University.
“Service to my community and state has always been important to me,” he says. “I have always believed that the best leader is one who seeks to serve others, and that is what I strive to do.”
Music has also played a meaningful role in his life. McClure played the trombone as a student and had the honor of performing as a representative of Parkview High School at the 1965 New York World’s Fair and Montreal’s Expo 67.
More than the performances, though, he remembers the lessons learned from longtime band and orchestra director Dan Palen, who mentored him from sixth grade through college. “He taught me to work hard and to do my best,” McClure says. “He instilled in me the confidence that I can do whatever is needed to accomplish the task at hand.”
Although he stepped down as mayor in 2025, McClure’s service continues. Just
Ken McClure throws the first pitch for the Springfield Cardinals (below). Nancy Allen (right) shows off some of her numerous novels. Warren Robinett works on electronics (bottom right).
months later, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe appointed him to the Missouri Ethics Commission, where he now helps uphold transparency in government.
“Ken is one of the most capable, intelligent, knowledgeable, caring, loyal people I have ever worked with and he has the highest integrity,” says Clif Smart, a friend and colleague of McClure and former president of Missouri State University.
Throughout his career, McClure has prioritized dedication, humility and unwavering service. “I have been blessed to have a professional career that I could never have anticipated. Each position I have been honored to hold has built up-
on my experiences and lessons learned throughout a lifetime,” he says. “The foundation was laid in my life by the Springfield Public Schools and I am eternally grateful.”
Warren Robinett
Glendale High School, Class of 1970
His name and face may not be immediately recognizable, but Warren Robinett’s legacy is well known to gaming and virtual reality enthusiasts for his role in shaping the future of computer-based games and virtual learning programs.
In the late 1970s, as a young programmer at Atari, Robinett created Adventure,
a groundbreaking game that immersed players in a world of castles, dragons and mazes. Not only was it one of the first graphics-based action-adventure games, it was the first to contain what is now known as an “Easter egg,” a hidden element intentionally placed for players to discover.
At the time, Atari wouldn’t share credit or royalties with game designers, which frustrated Robinett. To mark his game, he included a secret icon that unlocked a room containing a hidden message: “Created by Warren Robinett.”
“They had the power to keep my name off the box,” Robinett says, “but I had the power to put my name on the screen.” That Easter egg launched a cultural phenomenon still copied today.
Robinett’s innovative spirit didn’t stop there. In 1980, he co-founded The Learning Company, which became an influential publisher of educational software. His game Rocky’s Boots earned three Software of the Year awards in 1983 for teaching logic and math through interactive play.
“I think the standout accomplishment in his life was creating The Learning Company,” says Robinett’s longtime friend Bob Murney. “It was a huge accomplishment for someone his age to start a company around a game specifically to teach kids math.”
Robinett’s passion for blending math, technology and learning began early. At Glendale High School, he was known as a math genius who won multiple math and science contests.
For one competition, he built a robot called “Max the Electric Squirrel” using parts from an Erector Set, electric motors, light-sensing photo-cells and circuit boards. The goal was to program Max to hunt “nuts,” represented by lights.
“Warren pointed to a red light and said, ‘Max, get the nut,’ and Max maneuvered toward it,” Murney recalls. “I was stunned. I don’t know how he did it but I don’t think that people were shocked at that point that one of his creations would take him where it did.” As his career, and technology, advanced, Robinett utilized his ingenuity and virtual reality software
“I appeared before the school board, presented the petition bearing 2,216 signatures and made an oral argument in support of a girls’ sports program. It was my first experience with real-world advocacy.”
—Nancy Allen
to invent groundbreaking solutions for NASA, University of North Carolina and HP Labs.
Whether teaching children or working on a pioneering project for NASA, Robinett’s career has been defined by his endless curiosity about the world around him.
“I think Warren operates by a rule of interest. If something interests him he dives into it full force,” Murney explains. “He has an intellectual curiosity that never seems to end, and right now that includes taking violin lessons and learning how to play ping pong. He just never stops. There are always new things he wants to explore.”
Nancy Allen
Glendale High School, Class of 1974
Long before her name appeared on The New York Times Best Sellers list, Nancy Allen was already using her skill with words to advocate for others.
At just 16, she led a grassroots effort to compel decision-makers to offer competitive sports for female students at Glendale High School.
“I appeared before the school board, presented the petition bearing 2,216 signatures and made an oral argument in support of a girls’ sports program,” Allen recalls. “It was my first experience with real-world advocacy.” And it worked. Just a few months later, the school board announced that girls could look forward to participating in sports beginning with the 1973-1974 school year.
After earning her law degree from the University of Missouri, Allen returned to Springfield and became one of the region’s first female criminal prosecutors. During her 15 years as an Assistant Missouri At torney General and Assistant Prosecutor, she tried more than 30 jury cases.
Eventually she traded the courtroom for the classroom, joining the faculty at Missouri State University, where she taught law classes for 15 years. It was during this time that Allen wrote and published her first legal mystery, of the Hills, which is one of four books included in her “Ozarks Mystery” series.
Her talent caught the eye of legendary and prolific author James Patterson, who invited her to collaborate. Together they have co-authored three bestselling legal thrillers: Juror #3, The Jailhouse Lawyer and The #1 Lawyer Juror #3 No. 1 on The New York Times list in 2018. “I have been working closely with my friend Nancy Allen for a glorious eight years,” Patterson says. “Not only is Nancy a talented, highly principled law yer, she’s one of the best novelists writing today. I’ve done No. 1 bestsellers with others—Dolly Parton, President Clinton, Viola Davis—but Nancy is my favorite. Don’t tell Dolly! And it all started here in Springfield.”
Now a nationally recognized author and speaker, Allen travels the country sharing her journey from prosecutor to novelist with aspiring writers and devoted readers. Her achievements as an author, educa tor and lawyer have earned her numerous recognitions during her career, including a U.S. Congressional Statement of Honor and the 2025 Missouri State University Outstanding Alumna Award. The MSU English Department also created the Nancy Allen Research Writing Awards as a tribute to her influence.
In court, at the podium or on the page, Allen has made a career of amplifying voices, confronting injustice and striving to inspire others.
She and her husband, Randy, who just celebrated their 40th wedding anniversa ry, are the proud parents of two children, Ben and Martha.
On the agenda this month? Fall festivals, local love and the start of a new theater season.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
October 3
See art by local and regional artists as you stroll through Downtown Springfield galleries and shops, like Missouri State University’s Brick City Gallery, the Creamery Arts Center, Fresh Gallery, Obelisk Home and lots more.
Free; 6–10 p.m.; Downtown Springfield; springfieldarts.org
THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS
October 4
Hear the Springfield Symphony Orchestra perform iconic tunes from Hollywood composer John Williams, who wrote the scores for Star Wars, Harry Potter, Indiana Jones and more. 7:30 p.m.; Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield; springfieldmosymphony.org
October 4
Head to Fordland to wander one of the most charming little markets around, where you can stroll through shady paths visiting vendors selling antiques, gifts, home décor items, crafts and more. There are food trucks on hand as well.
9 a.m.–3 p.m.; Schofield & Gray, 327 E. Main St., Fordland; schofieldgray.com
October 3–5
This annual arts and crafts fair has been happening in Ozark for more than 50 years, and it features over 350 local crafters and makers selling their wares in booths and tents around Finley River Park. There are also food vendors on hand for when you’ve worn yourself out from all of the shopping and browsing!
9 a.m.–6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday; Finley River Park, 961 N. Riverside Road, Ozark; ozarkcraftfair.com
October 4, 11, 18, 25
Celebrate fall at Big Cedar Lodge with their lineup of seasonal activities. Every Saturday, they offer tram rides, a pumpkin patch, pumpkin decorating activities, inflatables, bonfires and lots more. Also on the calendar: chuckwagon tours and lake cruises you can book separately.
11:30 a.m.–5 p.m.; Big Cedar Lodge, 190 Top of the Rock Road; bigcedar.com
October 4–November 2
Explore all the fall fun to be had at Sycamore Creek Family Ranch, where the scenic grounds are filled with fun. There are bonfires, hayrides, a corn maze, lawn games, pickleball, a huge slide and more. Open Saturdays and Sundays.
2:30–8:30 p.m.; Sycamore Creek Family Ranch, 2657 Sunset Inn Road, Branson; sycamorecreekfamilyranch.com
October 4–5, 11–12, 18–19 & 25–26
Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park gets dressed up in its autumn best every year for Harvest Fest, when visitors can come for a pumpkin patch, a corn maze, hayrides, inflatables, horse rides and more. Don’t miss the tasty fall concessions. As always, the farm is home to lots of animals too.
11 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturdays, noon–6 p.m. Sundays; Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park, 3825 W. Farm Road 146, Springfield
October 5, 12, 19, 26
Enjoy cooling fall weather and a scenic park setting as you watch live concerts outdoors in the fresh air. Concerts include Johnnie Angelia King & the Blues Connection on October 5, Queen City Chorale on October 12, The Henderson Kids with Brandon Moore on October 19 and Isaac Walker on October 26. Beer and wine concessions are available. Bring a lawn chair or blanket.
Peace Through People Pavilion, Springfield Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield; peacethroughpeople.org/gigs
NAPOLEON DYNAMITE LIVE!
October 8
See a screening of the cult classic movie Napoleon Dynamite and see a live show featuring the movie’s stars Jon Heder (Napoloeon Dynamite), Efren Ramirez (Pedro) and Jon Gries (Uncle Rico). The three will blend Q&A, improv, game show and audience participation for some family-friendly fun. The movie is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. 6 p.m.; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 510 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
DISENCHANTED!
October 9
This musical comedy features familiar fairytale heroines (Snow White, Cinderella and more) in a whole new
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light. The show features adult language and content; these princesses are all grown up after all.
7 p.m.; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 510 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
October 10
Grab your cowboy boots and your favorite dancing partner, and head to Sycamore Creek Family Ranch for their monthly Barn Dance. Guests can participate in two-stepping and line dances, and the event is a fun Sycamore Creek tradition for all ages.
$9–16; 7 p.m.; Sycamore Creek Family Ranch, 2657 Sunset Inn Road, Branson; sycamorecreekfamilyranch.com
October 10–25
See High Tide Theatrical’s stage performance of the cult favorite musical The Rocky Horror Picture Show . There’s science fiction, lots of humor and a bit of light horror as Brad and Janet find shelter from a storm inside Dr. FrankN-Furter’s mansion. This performance is rated R. Showtimes vary, including a few midnight shows; see website for details.
The Lightroom Lounge at Martha’s Vineyard, 219 W. Olive St., Springfield; hightidesgf.org
October 11
Celebrate the diversity in Springfield and cultures from across the globe at this family-friendly street fest filled with live music, dance performances, cultural showcases, over 60 food trucks and more—all filling the sidewalks up and down Commercial Street.
10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Historic Commercial Street neighborhood, Springfield; sgfculturefest.com
October 11
Head to Dickerson Park Zoo for a day filled with Harry Potter–inspired activities and interesting animal enrichment. While you’re there, be sure to see all the
After taking a hiatus, one of the season’s most fun fests has returned to Sycamore Creek Family Ranch.
Nobody likes it when one of their favorite annual traditions disappears, and fans were certainly bummed when Sycamore Creek Family Ranch discontinued their Fall Roundup.
But everybody likes a comeback, and that’s why 2025 is a great year for Sycamore Creek. The Fall Roundup is back, baby! This laid-back event is set on a backdrop of rolling Ozarks hills, and there are loads of fall-centric activities happening around the farm.
The corn maze is 6 acres of paths worth getting lost in, and there’s even a lookout where you can take a peek from above to help you find your way out. There are hayrides, apple cider slushes, freshly baked brick oven pizzas, hot cocoa, lawn games, a pumpkin launcher, disc golf, tractor races and more outdoor activities that let kiddos run off their boundless energy.
Animal-loving kiddos can wander down to visit with friendly farm animals like alpacas and a mini Scottish Highland cow, and families can cozy up to the bonfires to get warm on cool fall nights. There’s even a pickleball court, for a little friendly compe tition.
Sycamore Creek Family Ranch, 2657 Sunset Inn Road
Open Saturdays and Sundays, October 4–November 2, from 2:30–8:30 p.m. sycamorecreek familyranch.com
zoo animals, hop over to the petting zoo to say hey to the goats and wander over to feed the giraffes.
9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Dickerson Park Zoo, 1401 W. Norton Road, Springfield; dickersonparkzoo.org
SWING FOR THE SYMPHONY
October 14
Join in on this annual golf tournament and play for a good cause. The event is a fundraiser for Springfield Symphony Orchestra, to support the symphony’s operations, artistic programming, free educational performances and more.
11:30 a.m. lunch and check-in, 1 p.m. shotgun start; Millwood Golf & Racquet Club, 3700 E. Millwood Dr., Ozark; springfieldsymphony.org
NOISES OFF
October 17–26
It’s all chaos and comedy on stage with this Springfield Little Theatre performance of Noises Off, a story about a troupe of actors who can’t seem to pull off their show without missed lines, problems with props and lots more.
7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays; Landers Theatre, 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield; springfieldlittletheatre.org
WALKING WITH GHOSTS: AN EVENING OF TRUE CRIME HAUNTINGS
October 18
Amy Bruni takes the stage to talk about all things spooky. Bruni is a paranormal investigator and podcaster who stars in Kindred Spirits and Ghost Hunters , and she shares how she connects with spirits and ghosts.
7 p.m.; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 510 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
MRS. DOUBTFIRE: THE NEW MUSICAL COMEDY
October 21–23
If you grew up watching Robin Williams as the zany Scottish Mrs. Doubtfire, then the stage performance of Mrs. Doubtfire is sure to be a nostalgic crowd-pleaser.
This show is recommended for children ages 8 and older.
7:30 p.m.; Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield; hammonshall.com
October 23
Is it hot in here? If perimenopause, menopause and midlife shifts are all you and your friends can talk about, then join 417 Magazine for a night filled with real talk and lots of laughs. The event features an expert panel on hormones and menopause, a candid Q&A with Publisher Logan Aguirre, a set by nationally touring comic Missy Hall, heavy apps and drinks. Get tickets at 417mag.com/ hotflash.
5 p.m.; Hickory Hills Country Club, 3909 E. Cherry St., Springfield; 417mag. com/hotflash
HALLOWEEN FEST
October 25
Show up in your Halloween costume for all sorts of Halloween-themed and kid-friendly fun, like a family scavenger hunt, games, crafts and more.
To celebrate, we will be giving away door prizes every 35 minutes.
11 a.m.–1 p.m.; Gray/Campbell Farmstead at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield; parkboard.org/events
October 25
Dress up in your Halloween costume, and head to the Railroad History Museum to trick-or-treat (on the train!) with museum volunteers. This event marks the final day of the museum’s season, so it’s your last chance to visit before next year.
2–4 p.m.; Railroad History Museum, Grant Beach Park, 1401 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
Through October 26
Silver Dollar City comes alive with thousands of glowing pumpkins at this fallthemed festival. Don’t miss the dance
parties in The Plaza, great fall seasonal eats all around the park, live entertainment and—of course—your favorite roller coaster rides.
$92 adults, $82 kids, free for ages 3 and younger; Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway, Branson; silverdollarcity.com
CANDLELIGHT: HALLOWEEN CLASSICS
October 26
Hear a talented string quartet perform in an intimate setting surrounded by glowing candlelight. At this Halloweenthemed event, you can hear iconic spooky songs like “Time Warp” from The Rocky Horror Picture Show and “Danse Macabre” plus tunes from spooky films like Psycho and The Nightmare Before Christmas and lots more.
6:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.; Stone Chapel at Drury University, 900 N. Benton Ave., Springfield; feverup.com
AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER IN CONCERT
October 28
This show is a combination of live orchestra music to the tune of the Avatar: The Last Airbender series soundtrack, plus an immersive projection celebrating the show’s beloved three-season run.
7 p.m.; Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy.; hammonshall.com
SPOOKY SYMPHONY
October 30
As part of their free family series, the Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s kid-friendly concert features spooky tunes to get them in the delightfully macabre Halloween spirit. Kids are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes to the event.
Time is TBA; Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Springfield; springfieldsymphony.org
HAUNTED HISTORY TOURS
Through November 1
Tour downtown Springfield as your History Museum on the Square guide
tells spooky tales of alleged hauntings and creepy Springfield folklore. Walking tours run every Friday and Saturday through November 1. Bus tours are offered October 24 and 25.
History Museum on the Square, tours begin at The Calaboose Springfield Police Museum, 409 W. McDaniel St.; historymuseumonthesquare.org
Ongoing
Watch the Missouri State Bears play in Conference USA for the first time—in a newly upgraded stadium. This month, see them play the Florida International University Panthers on October 29. Next month, they play the University of Texas at El Paso Miners on November 15 and the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs on November 29.
Game times vary; find more information at missouristatebears.com.
Ongoing
Visit Millsap Farm on Thursday nights through October for a chance to enjoy four types of homemade pizza, cooked fresh in wood-fired ovens using locally grown and produced ingredients. Guests can enjoy the pizza in a sweet little clearing surrounded by trees while listening to live music. Visit Millsap’s self-serve farmstand shop while you’re there. $18 adults, $7 kids; 6–8 p.m.; Millsap Farms, 6593 Emu Lane, Springfield; millsapfarms.com/pizza-club
Ongoing
There are some great comedians on the lineup at Blue Room Comedy Club. Get tickets to Erica Rhodes October 3–4, Liza Treyger October 10–11, Luis J. Gomez October 17–18, Heather Shaw October 24–25 and Chris Munch October 25.
Prices and showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield; blueroomcomedyclub.com
When do you feel your best? Chances are, it’s when you feel healthy and clear minded. Vibrant. Pain free. Smooth skin. Polished teeth. Styled hair. Relaxed muscles. Consider this your guide to confidence, to feeling your best and to finding the experts who can get you there.
417-875-3246
417PLASTICSURGERY.COM
3555 S. NATIONAL AVE., SUITE 501 SPRINGFIELD
From all types of cosmetic procedures to full reconstructive surgeries after a difficult cancer diagnosis, countless patients have trusted the Center for Plastic Surgery at CoxHealth for over 30 years. When it comes to plastic surgery, one of the most important things is to find a team with that kind of experience and accreditation to back it up. The Center for Plastic Surgery’s practice has the most highly trained and nationally recognized providers in the entire region.
The Center for Plastic Surgery 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 is through early detection and appropriate intervention, combining state-of-the-art plastic surgery with scientifically proven anti-aging therapeutics and products.
Why did you choose to go into your current profession?
Plastic surgery is a broad and complex field that demands precision, careful planning and attention to detail. What makes it especially rewarding are the patient interactions—bringing us joy as we help individuals achieve their personal goals.
If you are looking for an individualized game plan and excellent results, call the experts at the Center for Plastic Surgery at 417-875-3246.
BY
Cheryl Briggs
417-447-7777
MYDERMAHEALTH.COM
1850 S. STEWART AVE., SPRINGFIELD
At DermaHealth, clients discover a place where confidence, health and beauty come together. Celebrating being in business for 20 years with more than 100 years of combined expertise, the skilled team offers a wide range of aesthetic and medical services designed to help people feel and look their best at every stage of life.
From laser treatments and aesthetic procedures to liposuction, weight loss programs and bioidentical hormone replacement, DermaHealth creates customized plans tailored to each client’s goals. The staff is passionate about education, guiding clients with expert knowledge and personal care. They work hard to do the best for every client by offering education, guidance and confidence along the way.
For the team at DermaHealth, being your “best self” doesn’t mean turning back the clock—it means embracing health and vitality while aging with strength and grace. They strive to provide the highest quality procedures to deliver results you can see and confidence you’ll notice, all while maintaining a natural look.
With a compassionate, highly skilled medical-based staff and a commitment to helping clients soften the aging process, DermaHealth is dedicated to supporting every person’s journey toward feeling healthy, confident and authentically themselves.
At Nettie J’s Medical Parlor, beauty and wellness meet in a space built on connection, collaboration and care. The team offers a wide range of treatments, including skin rejuvenation, skin tightening, microneedling, dermal fillers, Botox, results-driven facials, relaxation massage, buccal massage, Reiki, Reiki-infused facials and sessions in the Himalayan salt sauna. With more than 30 years of combined experience, the medical team brings a high level of expertise, precision and passion to every treatment.
What do you do personally to be your “best self”?
What sets Nettie J’s apart is their belief in collaboration over competition. They partner with like-minded professionals and businesses to offer safe, ethical and comprehensive care to the community. The founder of Nettie J’s loves to soak up knowledge and spend an ample amount of time training nurses to become aesthetic injectors through their in-house academy.
Connection is at the heart of their mission—connection with clients, with one another and with their community. By staying committed to continuing education and adopting the most advanced techniques, Nettie J’s ensures optimal results for every client. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or transformation, the team at Nettie J’s is dedicated to helping you feel like your best self—inside and out.
BY
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What sets your business apart from your competitors?
We believe that expert care begins with trust. Our focus is to take the time to build meaningful relationships with our clients, ensuring each treatment is tailored to genuine care and expertise with long-term results in mind.
At Skin Bar Medical Studio, inclusivity is at the core of everything they do. They proudly serve a diverse clientele. Whether clients are seeking weight loss support, hormone therapy or rejuvenating injectables, the team at Skin Bar builds lasting relationships with each person, ensuring that every treatment plan is not only personalized but also focused on achieving sustainable, long-term results.
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1338 E. KINGSLEY ST., SUITE A, SPRINGFIELD
Dr. Lisa Castleman and her team make root canal procedures a pain-free and comfortable experience. Advanced Endodontics of Greater Springfield excels at providing superior customer service, clear communication and excellent chairside manner. Dr. Castleman is the only authorized provider in southwest Missouri of the GentleWave procedure, a specialized cleaning system with enhanced disinfection and cyclonic cleaning capabilities that preserve more integral natural tooth structure to promote faster healing and symptom reduction after treatment. 3D imaging and state-of-the-art microsurgical equipment are utilized in every appointment, while patients are pampered with warm blankets and a movie of their choice. Dr. Castleman’s office creates a caring and professional environment that will exceed expectations.
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Theta Wellness offers a thoughtfully curated range of therapies designed to support physical, mental and emotional well-being. Guests can experience flotation therapy, red-light therapy, Finnish sauna and cold plunge and massage treatments from highly experienced therapists skilled in diverse healing modalities. The center was created with a passion for health and a mission to build a supportive community where people inspire one another to become their best selves. The Theta Wellness team takes pride in those transformative “a-ha” moments when clients discover the life-changing benefits of intentional self-care and begin weaving these restorative services into their everyday routines for lasting wellness.
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HOT FLASH HAPPY HOUR
Join 417 Magazine for an unforgettable night of real talk, honest answers and big laughs about perimenopause, menopause, hormones and midlife shifts—with expert voices, delicious apps, cocktails and killer comedy.
WE’RE IN.
THURSDAY, OCT. 23, 5–8 P.M.
HICKORY HILLS COUNTRY CLUB
VENTURE TO CALEDONIA, ABOUT THREE HOURS FROM SPRINGFIELD, FOR HISTORIC SITES AND DELIGHTFUL SHOPS AND FOOD.
BY MOLLY HAYNES
Located just three hours northeast of springfield, the teeny town of Caledonia is a hidden gem that’s worth the drive for a long day trip or a weekend getaway. While Caledonia has all the allure of a small town with charming and quaint shops and eateries, it is also located within a short distance from great outdoors adventures. Less than 10 miles in either direction are treasures like Elephant Rocks State Park and Hughes Mountain Natural Area, both offering beautiful rock formations. Make the trip this month to attend their annual Pumpkin Fest that includes a parade, hayrides and a pie-eating contest.
“Entertainment can be found anywhere you go; you can stop to watch the bull riding or the annual pie-eating contest.”
Open since 1909, The Old Village Mercantile candy and handcrafted ice cream shop has all kinds of sweets and treats. This historically registered mercantile has everything from antiques on the second floor to award-winning artisan ice cream on the first. The recently added coffee bar is a must for a pick-me-up. The store has more than 600 kinds of candy and fudge spread out across the main floor. Once you’re done at the mercantile, Caledonia Vintage and Gifts is a shop that has treasures for all ages. They have a collection of cute clothes and seasonal items for every occasion that will give you something to remember your village getaway. Whether you love shopping or Caledonia as a whole, this will become your day-trip haven. In addition to Caledonia Vintage and Gifts, A Boy’s Dream Hobby Shop is every card collector’s paradise.
Play Outside
About 7 miles south of Caledonia is Elephant Rocks State Park. This area is home to massive pink granite boulders that inspired the park’s name. There is a paved Braille Trail, specially designed for visitors with physical and visual disabilities, so everyone can have the opportunity to travel the path and learn about the history and landscape of the area. You can travel the trail to hidden gems, like the ruins of an old depot building or the water-filled site of the original quarry. But the main attraction is climbing around and over the famous rocks or gazing out over the gorgeous view from the top of the trail.
If you travel the other direction from Caledonia (about 7 miles north), you’ll find another geological wonder: Devil’s Honeycomb Trail at Hughes Mountain Natural Area. The trail takes you through a wooded area in the St. Francois Mountains and ends at an expansive lookout where the view is vast and the ground is covered in honeycomb-shaped rhyolite rock formations.
Want to stay in town instead? No problem! Every second Saturday in October the village of Caledonia hosts its Pumpkin Fest. The event begins with a parade in the morning and hosts other activities throughout the rest of the day until the late afternoon. Partake in family activities such as pumpkin bowling and hayrides to a pumpkin patch. Entertainment can be found anywhere you go; you can stop to watch the bull riding or the annual pie-eating contest.
If you’re feeling peckish on your trip to Caledonia stop by Old Tyme Diner. It combines good homemade food with a hometown feel. Try the Old Tyme Cinnamon Rolls made from scratch if you’re in the mood for something sweet. A great dish for a savory morning is the Old Tyme Diner Breakfast that allows you to have your pick of two eggs, two pancakes, a meat choice and toast. In addition to their breakfast food, the diner is open for lunch and has even won an award from America’s Best Restaurants for their “Awesome Club.” When you’ve had your fun exploring Caledonia and need a place to sleep, the Old Caledonia Bed and Breakfast is the ideal place to stay when visiting the village. This adorable home offers organic meals for your breakfast such as locally sourced eggs and fresh produce. Relish the wellness and spa area where you can choose to wind down in the sauna and hot tub or practice yoga in the converted studio on the top floor. Celebrating a special occasion? Book the tea room 48 hours in advance to savor snacks and your selection of tea for the afternoon. With so many ways to relax at the Old Caledonia Bed and Breakfast, you will leave your trip feeling refreshed.
GREEN SPACES
October.
EXPLORE MORE THAN JUST THE CHANGING LEAVES THIS FALL, FROM PRAIRIES TO PARKS, CHECK OUT THE SUMACS, NATIVE LOTUS AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN.
BY EMMA ZAWACKI
The ozarks’ prairies and parks are overflowing with fall flora, and these flowers and plants give the changing leaves a run for their money. According to Katie Keith, Botanical Center Coordinator at the Springfield Botanical Gardens, the best time to visit fall flora is before the first frost, which tends to happen mid-October.
Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area
While hiking the trails at Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area, you can expect to see the shifting fall colors and also sumac, persimmon trees with ripening fruit and giant cane. For hiking fanatics, there are approximately 18 miles worth of trails to explore. If hiking isn’t for you, there are also biking and horseback trails available on the property. The 2,700-acre park offers the chance
to spot wildlife too. Also, the Woods Fork of Bull Creek runs through the property, adding to the ambiance. The park is located just 20 minutes south of Springfield on Highway 65.
Coyne Prairie
Greet fall like an old friend at Coyne Prairie (Co Rd 199, Lockwood) as you explore the expansive land. Currently owned by the Missouri Prairie Foundation, this is the perfect place to view sumacs and sunflowers in early October and goldenrod and asters at the end of the month. Located in Dade County on Highway E, there is parking available along the gravel road.
The prairie supports about 218 plant species that are native to the area. It also is home to many birds, like the northern bobwhite year round and Laplund longspurs in the winter months.
Penn-Sylvania Prairie
Visit Penn-Sylvania Prairie in Dade County for the chance to see fall flowers. This 160-acre environment is the perfect place to see sumacs, sunflowers, goldenrods, asters and prairie grasses. Additionally, it is a good place to chance a monarch sighting as they migrate south for the winter.
There are several endangered species that call the Penn-Sylvania Prairie home. The regal fritillary butterfly, prairie mole cricket, northern crawfish frog and grassland birds, including the northern bobwhite, Henslow’s sparrow, upland sandpiper and Smith longspur, can be seen on the site.
Lake Springfield Park and Boathouse
Soak up fall flora lakeside at Lake Springfield Park and Boathouse (5324 S. Kissick Ave., Springfield). This park offers a chance to view cardinal flowers, marsh mallows and native lotus plants. Enjoy the coveted warm fall days here by exploring the pavilions, walking the surrounding trails and fishing during the park’s hours. Make sure to check the website before heading out as their hours change in October.
If you’re lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of wildlife like deer, waterfowl and turkey while exploring the 158 acres. Hike trails, explore the woods and trek the bluffs that span the park.
“Practical
needs are always a priority, but MWS Homes believes there is room for beauty in every structure—where intricate details and bold statements come together to create spaces that are remarkable.”
MWS HOMES specializes in high-end custom home construction, bringing bold architectural ideas to life with precision and artistry. Led by Mike Strange with years of experience and driven by his passion for art and architecture, MWS Homes excels at creativity and collaboration, transforming drawings on paper into one-of-a-kind homes. Every project begins with a vision, and Mike is dedicated to finding the artisans, craftsmen and innovative solutions needed to make that vision a reality.
MWS Homes thrives on challenges that go beyond the norms of standard construction. Each design may call for a dramatic architectural element or a unique feature that pushes the boundaries of traditional homebuilding. For MWS Homes, the ideal client is someone willing to dream big and imagine a home that is both highly functional and deeply personal.
Practical needs are always a priority, but for Mike, he believes there is room for beauty in every structure. Intricate details and bold statements come together to create spaces that are not only livable but also remarkable. Every project is fueled by a passion for architecture and the joy of watching a design evolve into a place where people feel proud, secure and at home.
For MWS Homes, building is a craft and a calling.
925-260-2054
BY
FULFILL YOUR COWBOY DREAMS ON A DUDE RANCH THIS FALL. DUDE RANCHES CHECK ALL THE TOP TRAVEL TRENDS’ PROVERBIAL BOXES: COWBOY CORE, SLOW TRAVEL, REMOTE ESCAPES AND ADVENTURE.
BY TARYN SHORR-MCKEE
Call it cowboy core, frontier travel or just a breath of fresh air—whatever the term, traditional dude ranches are having a major moment. Fueled largely by pop culture’s renewed fascination with the American West (thank you, Yellowstone and Land Man ), and travelers’ ever-growing desire to slow down, actually unplug and
spread out, dude ranch vacations are more popular and relevant than ever. And in 2025, these aren’t just retreats centered around horseback riding. They’re immersive, leisurely getaways designed to help you reconnect with nature, yourself and your inner wrangler—the antidote to our hyper-connected, over-scheduled lives.
Find a closeto-home dude ranch in the Ozarks or plan a trip across the country.
Without trying to be anything other than what they are, dude ranches offer a refreshing break from the noise, digital and otherwise. Whether you’re trading Slack notifications for time in the saddle or roasting s’mores instead of doom-scrolling, these getaways deliver something increasingly rare: presence. On the ranch, you’ll find the kind of
simplicity that’s extraordinarily difficult to find in modern daily life.
And if your idea of a dude ranch involves dusty bunkhouses and all-day trail rides? Well, it’s time to reframe your thinking. Today’s best ranches deliver all those aforementioned unplugged perks, as well as blend rustic charm with highend entertainment and comfort: archery ranges and climbing walls, yoga decks with mountain views, kids’ camps, spa treatments, even chef-led tasting menus. Lodging might mean a private cabin with a soaking tub and stone fireplace or a stylish glamping tent. It’s a reimagined Western experience—adventure, yes, but with plenty of creature comforts.
Who should take a dude ranch vacation?
This kind of retreat appeals to anyone looking to unplug and reconnect. Families especially, and perhaps multi-generational families even more so, are a natural fit, but ranch stays also appeal to couples, solo travelers, wellness seekers, foodies and anyone craving fresh air, wide-open spaces and good old-fashioned adventure. For parents—heck, for everyone—a dude ranch presents an opportunity to give kids a wholly free-range, screen-free experience, one they won’t think is totally lame. A chance to do more with less, prioritizing connection and clarity.
Along those lines, ranch stays also tap into a growing interest in “rural upskilling,” learning practical, hands-on skills. Guests can try their hands at roping, archery, woodworking or outdoor survival skills, gaining not just new experiences but confidence.
It’s part of a larger shift toward intentional travel. According to Tripaneer, interest in U.S.-based ranch stays jumped 42% in the past year, with trail-riding a staggering 94%. As travelers grow more wary of overcrowded destinations, ranches—often tucked into remote, scenic corners of the country—offer something quieter, restorative and sustainable.
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Best for a Close-to-Home Taste of Ranch Life
Mountain Creek Ranch
Aurora, Missouri; mountaincreekranchmo.com
You don’t have to head west to channel your inner cowboy. Mountain Creek Ranch in Aurora offers the chance to dip your boots into ranch life right here in
417-land. The family-owned property isn’t traditional in the classic Western dude ranch sense, but it’s packed with rustic charm and activities including horseback rides, chuckwagon dinners and cattle drives. Whether you visit for a day or stay overnight in one of the cozy cabins, it’s an easy, approachable way to get your cowboy fix.
C Lazy U Ranch
Granby, Colorado; clazyu.co
85 miles from Denver but far more remote feeling, this high-altitude hideaway marries “Colorado fancy” and legacy on 8,500 acres. The nearly century-old working ranch offers Rocky Mountain views and upscale Western accommodations, from cozy cabins to spacious homes. Ride alongside 200 horses, participate in cattle pushing or horsemanship clinics, or simply watch the daily “Jingle,” when wranglers round up the horses at dawn and dusk. Year-round activities span fly-fishing, hiking and wagon rides in summer to winter snowshoeing, sleigh rides and ice hockey. Families are especially well served, thanks to robust kids’ programming, while adults can unwind with wine pairing dinners or spa treatments.
Best for a Warm Weather Getaway
White Stallion Ranch
Tucson, Arizona; whitestallion.com
A “true” family affair since 1965, White Stallion Ranch sits just outside Tucson and adjacent to Saguaro National Park West, where several members of the True family run the operation. It comes as no surprise several old Westerns chose White Stallion as a filming location—guest rooms are chic Santa Fe-style casitas scattered among towering Saguaro cacti. Explore the Sonoran Desert on horseback or via a guided off-road or e-bike tour, soak up the famous Arizona sunshine by the pool and catch the beloved ranch rodeo every Wednesday.
Best for an Authentic Wild West Experience
Circle Bar Ranch
Hobson Montana; circlebarranch.com
For a taste of untamed Big Sky Country, Circle Bar delivers in spades. Nestled at the foot of the Little Belt Mountains in remote central Montana’s Judith River Valley, this ranch is like stepping into a Western film. Fitting, since it’s part of the True Ranch Collection, the same owners behind White Stallion Ranch (though the vibe here is wilder). Days revolve around classic ranch pursuits: trail rides across open plains, guided hikes into Lewis and Clark territory and fly-fishing the creek that runs through the property. There’s no spa or curated tasting menu, just genuine Western hospitality and pure Montana magic.
Splurge-Worthy Ranch
Brush Creek Ranch
Saratoga, Wyoming; brushcreekranch.com
Western heritage meets five-star indulgence in rural southern Wyoming. Set on 30,000 acres flanked by the Sierra Madre Mountains and spectacular Medicine Bow National Forest, this luxe all-inclusive retreat delivers rustic elegance in every detail. In between riding and learning to barrel race, sign up for
cooking classes, forest bathing, goat yoga or a High Mountain Moisture Drench Therapy spa treatment. Stay in a Western lodge room or one of 25 private cabins, and if you have kiddos in tow, don’t miss the Li’l Wranglers program for kids 4 to 9.
Plan well in advance. Most, if not all, dude ranches have minimum stay requirements ranging from four days to a full week. It’s also common for guests to return year after year, reserving next year’s dates before checkout. This is not a last-minute getaway.
Dress the part. Jeans, boots (break them in before you pack!), pearl snap shirts and a cowboy hat serve you far better than heels or anything designer. Feel free to pack a nice shirt or jewelry for dinner, but leave the nice formal wear at home.
Understand what you’re signing up for. Dude ranches are not theme parks or five-star resorts (in most cases, anyway)—and that’s their precise charm. You’ll find fresh air, open space, beautiful scenery and hearty meals, but probably also a little dust and some critters. Come with an open mind and embrace ranch life.
Expect a mix of downtime and group activities. Days typically follow a flexible routine, with horseback rides, meals and scheduled outings with other guests. For many, this social aspect is a highlight, but if you’re craving total seclusion, it might not be the right fit.
Check the fine print. Many ranches build everything into their rates, while others offer à la carte pricing or themed activity packages for an extra fee. Be sure you understand exactly what’s included before committing.
CHANNELING BRITISH STYLE, ONE LOCAL DESIGNER UPGRADES A ROUNTREE NEIGHBORHOOD BUNGALOW.
BY HEATHER KOHLER
PHOTOGRAPHED BY TESSA COOPER
When the homeowners of a 1920s bungalow in Rountree neighborhood decided to remodel their house, they looked to interior designer Sharon Taylor Gullett of Pickwick House to help them reimagine the space and bring back its old school charm.
The kitchen was one of the most dramatic transformations. “The kitchen was very small,” says Gullett. “We opened it up, added double French doors and created lots more natural light.”
The overall design was inspired by deVOL Kitchens, a British company known for its bespoke kitchens.
The homeowners opted for a double-wide refrigerator creating a wall of black cabinets designed to look like a large cupboard. Period-appropriate lighting was chosen instead of can lighting. “We found these antique lights that were salvaged from the Joplin Railroad Station Depot,” says Gullett. “The look is so timeless.” Details like the black and white flooring from Missouri Tile (2418 W Battlefield Rd, Springfield) and the original beadboard used on the ceiling add character and texture, and the marble apron-front sink elevates the space while staying true to the British look and feel that Gullett and the homeowners were trying to achieve.
The homeowners wanted one space in the house to be really fun and unique, so Gullett focused on the bathroom. “We
chose a wallpaper and tile with two different greens,” says Gullett. “I wanted to do something more interesting, and I think the look is very British.”
Another milk glass light salvaged from the Joplin Railroad Station Depot was used on the painted ceiling. The subway tile was sourced from Missouri Tile, and tile used for the floor was from Obelisk Home (214 W Phelps St #101, Springfield).
The green chinoiserie wallpaper from Seminole Decor (1815 E Seminole St, Springfield) is bold but not overwhelming due to its scale. “They really wanted a conversation starter bathroom,” says Gullett. “Even the cute little original linen closet got a pop of color.”
A timeless pedestal sink from Harry Cooper Supply (605 N Sherman Pkwy, Springfield) finished the space nicely.
CRONKHITE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT provides full-service property management across southwest Missouri with a culture rooted in integrity, community and fun. The team brings more than 30 years of combined experience and offers a wide range of services, including in-house maintenance and leasing, bookkeeping and accounting, preventative maintenance, real estate investment coaching, portfolio strategy and rental development consulting. With licensed brokers and realtors on staff, Cronkhite Property Management ensures every detail is handled with professionalism and care.
The company was founded to meet a clear need in the community: safe, clean and reasonably priced rental housing. Building on years in the residential construction industry, owner Mike Cronkhite has developed more than 350 new single-family homes throughout the region, expanding reliable housing options for local residents.
Today, Cronkhite Property Management continues that mission by working with both single-property owners and investors with larger portfolios.
What sets Cronkhite apart is its strong culture and commitment to doing what’s right. Tenants are welcomed on a first-come, first-approved basis, and investors benefit from quick vacancy fill rates and high tenant retention.
With consistently happy tenants and fully occupied properties, Cronkhite Property Management is helping investors expand their returns while strengthening communities across southwest Missouri.
CRONKHITE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 417-920-7634
CRONKHITEPM.COM 1526 S. ENTERPRISE, SPRINGFIELD
IN THE GARDEN
LEARN TO DRY YOUR OWN GOURDS THIS FALL TO MAKE BEAUTIFUL BIRDHOUSES THIS SPRING.
BY HEATHER KOHLER
ourd vines make beautiful additions to any garden, and like other vines they grow rapidly on trellises and fences, making striking displays. Gourd vines make fragrant large blooms and, of course, uniquely shaped fruits that can be used in fall displays and later can be preserved to use for crafts. One popular gourd, Lagenaria sicerana, is often referred to as a birdhouse gourd. They look like they have been squeezed in the middle, creating a funky shape that’s perfect for making a birdhouse.
Make the most of your gourds this fall by turning them into a DIY birdhouse.
Many people like to sow their seeds in late summer, and they let their gourds dry on the vine until after the first frost. However, television host and garden designer P. Allen Smith believes harvesting time depends on if the gourds are fully ripened. Gourds are ready to be harvested when their stems dry and turn brown and the fruit has hardened. An unripened gourd will just rot after harvesting or after a frost. When cutting your ripe gourd off a vine, make sure to leave at least 2 inches of the stem so water can evaporate and the gourd will dry properly.
You certainly don’t have to grow your own gourds. A fall visit to your local pumpkin patch is the perfect time to find gourds for crafts. You’ll want to look for gourds that weren’t harvested too early, with long dry stems and tough skin that’s difficult to pierce with your thumbnail. Smith recommends gently cleaning your gourds to remove dirt and wiping them down with a diluted bleach solution (2 tablespoons bleach to 1 gallon of water). This removes bacteria and helps to prevent any rotting.
To begin the drying process, lay your gourds on a mat or piece of cardboard and put them in a place that has good air circulation, like a garage, shed or barn. Make sure they are spread out and not touching each other. After that, leave your gourds alone. You can rotate them occasionally. You may lose a few to rot, so you’ll want to toss those out. Large gourds can take up to six months to dry, but if you start the process in late fall you’ll have beautifully dried gourds by springtime to make birdhouses.
Once your gourds have dried, you can gently sand any mold spots off, but you may leave small scratches by doing this. Using a utility knife or a drill, cut a hole in the lower front of your gourd and empty out the seeds. Now, for the fun part. You can paint or decorate your gourd however you like. Some people enjoy the rustic look of gourds and prefer to use a stain or gloss to preserve the organic tones and colors. Others create decorative folk designs using acrylic paints. Either way, make sure to seal your birdhouse if you plan on using it outdoors and not just decoratively.
TOUR THE PATTERSON FAMILY’S HISTORIC CABIN IN CHADWICK, MISSOURI AND JUSTIN PATTERSON’S NEW SHOP IN DOWNTOWN SPARTA, BLACK STAG MERCANTILE.
BY HEATHER KOHLER
Down a curvy gravel road sits the Patterson family home, a rustic 1879 cabin full of charm and antiques. The large wrap-around porch is host to family grill-outs and beautiful views of the rolling Ozarks hills, while a chippy-window greenhouse serves as a place for the Patterson girls (5-year-old Millie and 2-year-old Ada) to dig in the dirt on a rainy day. The rock details along and around the home draw you down a garden path by an outdoor fireplace and around the well house, all part of
the architecture of the home that made Justin Patterson and his wife, Jess, want to buy the cabin when the opportunity arose. Their family had been looking for the right place to raise their children when they moved back to the Ozarks after living in Germany for four years while Jess was in the Air Force.
Europe is where the two began collecting antiques from Austria, France and Germany. “We would find stuff on the side of the road,” says Justin. “Everything you could think of and then we got to ship everything home for free.”
Being in Europe opened up new opportunities for hunting for unique antiques, something that Justin had grown up doing. He was raised by a single mom, and the two would spend Saturday mornings going to antique stores. Back then Justin didn’t appreciate old things like he does now. “I would have liked to have found toys, but it was always just old people stuff,” he says. His mother passed away when he was just 17, and after that his interest led to a move to Nashville. Justin’s music later took him to California and then Arkansas, where he met Jess.
Back in the states and back in Sparta, Justin connected with Clive Gray, owner of Schofield & Gray, and they became fast friends. “He sparked my love for antiques even more,” says Justin.
As time went on, Justin and Jess repaired the cabin and worked to make it function
for their family, especially for their young children. Old cupboards hide away tiny rain boots in the entryway and toddler-friendly snacks in the kitchen. Justin painted the kitchen a chocolate brown and used every inch of the space by hanging old paintings, copper spoons, skillets, pots and taxidermy trout on the walls. Open shelves hold the family’s dinnerware, along with old jugs, books and rolling pins. Baskets hang from the ceiling—perfect for collecting raspberries from the garden.
The family room is where everyone spends time together, and it’s full of display cabinets holding unique memorabilia and vintage dish collections. One of Justin’s favorite antique paintings from the 1800s hangs on one of the walls. “It’s an old oil painting of a stag on a hill,” says Justin.
The space is also home to the family’s large collection of taxidermy. There’s a fox, a bear, fish, fowl and several stag mounts. “I really like taxidermy,” says Justin. “I’m also a fan of anything Ralph Lauren, so it’s like a European cabin meets that Polo feel with lots of old English art.” Old targets serve as artwork above French doors in the family room. They are relics of shooting competitions, where whoever was the closest to the target would get to keep it as a prize.
Every room feels cozy and collected in the Patterson family cabin, and both inside and out feel rich with history. During the fall
months the Pattersons can be found hanging around the outdoor stone fireplace that once was an original fireplace inside the home. Creating new traditions, enjoying nature and celebrating the history of their home together is something that’s close to their hearts. “We plan on being here forever and raising our kids here,” says Justin. “I hope our kids can build their homes here one day.” The couple just welcomed a new member to the family, a son they named Ollie. They also adopted their beloved dog Annie, who is happy to have all the space to run and young children to play with.
Justin loves collecting antiques so much that he opened an antique and gift shop just down the road in downtown Sparta called Black Stag Mercantile (7449 State Hwy 14 East, Sparta). “I want to put back into our community here,” says Justin. “When a building became available, I knew I had to jump on the opportunity.” Along with his business partner Clayton Grigsby, Justin fixed up the old building, adding a huge antique counter and building a large cabinet at the front of the store with a massive stag in the center of it all. “Clayton is a great builder,” says Justin. “We wanted it to look like an old bar.” A 1930s Old Town canoe hangs from the ceiling, and a millinery cabinet stocked with unique finds sits at the back of the store. Along with antiques, the mercantile also sells vintage clothing and jewelry and small gift items like soaps, candles, bath bombs and room sprays. Having his own shop had always been a dream, and today it’s come to fruition, but it’s not without the help of many important people in his life. “Clayton has encouraged me to do my own thing for years,” says Justin. “We love to go picking together. We just have a lot of fun.” Justin hopes Black Stag Mercantile becomes a destination spot for people who love old things as much as he does, and a stop where locals can grab a small gift or two. There are even old jars full of free candy for children who come strolling through. Whatever your reason for stopping in, there are plenty of vintage treasures to discover, all perfectly curated in the most thoughtful ways.
When everything is on the line, you’d go anywhere for the care you need. But the benefits of being close to home are invaluable. These local providers offer specialized treatments and compassionate care right here in 417-land.
CoxHealth delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care across southwest Missouri with expertise spanning medical oncology, gynecological oncology, radiation oncology and surgical oncology, as well as colorectal surgery, breast surgery, urology, pulmonology, ENT, neurosurgery, neuro-oncology and thoracic surgery. All physicians are board-certified, reflecting their commitment to clinical excellence. The program is accredited by the Commision on Cancer and the Amercian Society for Radiation Oncology, ensuring the highest national standards of care.
CoxHealth is also the region’s only provider of adaptive radiotherapy, a leading-edge technology that precisely adjusts treatments to target tumors while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue. Additionally, it is the only oncology center within 200 miles to offer prostate seed implant therapy for prostate cancer, giving patients a minimally invasive option with excellent outcomes.
Through collaborations with Washington University and the University of Missouri, CoxHealth remains at the forefront of cancer research and treatment innovation. The center actively participates in Cancer Research of the Ozarks, offering patients access to National Cancer Institute and industry-sponsored clinical trials, including advances in immunotherapy and chemotherapy.
Patients of all ages and backgrounds find expert, compassionate care close to home at CoxHealth, where prevention, early detection and advanced treatment come together to create the best possible outcomes.
BY
417-820-9341
MERCY.NET
1229 E. SEMINOLE ST. SUITE 310, SPRINGFIELD
s a fellowship-trained breast surgical oncologist at Mercy, Dr. Mackenzie Lesh knows every patient she treats is different, even if their diagnosis is similar. Dr. Lesh’s role is to help her patients navigate that journey. She’s there to answer their questions, ease their fears and choose a treatment path that best fits their needs and lifestyle.
Dr. Lesh joined Mercy in September 2024 as the team’s only female breast surgical oncologist. During her medical residency, Dr. Lesh trained at Mercy and was drawn to the way Mercy looks at each patient’s overall health instead of simply treating individual symptoms. “I really appreciated the environment at Mercy when I was a resident,” she says. “I could tell that the people of Springfield were special, and that is definitely reflected in my patients now.”
Dr. Lesh is often one of the first people patients see when they begin treatment for breast cancer, and thanks to her role, she becomes an integral part in their treatment and recovery. “Breast surgery, especially breast cancer surgery, is unique in that I have the opportunity to develop long-lasting relationships with my patients,” she says. “That is something truly special.”
As new technologies and treatments continue to evolve, Dr. Lesh is excited to bring the latest surgical innovations to her patients across this region.
At Swann Dermatology Partners, skin cancer care is both personal and precise. Swann’s fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons provide the highest level of expertise in removing skin cancers while preserving healthy tissue and achieving excellent cosmetic outcomes.
3850 S. NATIONAL AVE. STE 705, SPRINGFIELD
1240 E. INDEPENDENCE ST., SPRINGFIELD
590 BIRCH ST., STE 2C, HOLLISTER
331 HOSPITAL DR., STE C, LEBANON
2200 E. CLEVELAND AVE., MONETT
But what truly sets the team apart is the culture of care patients experience. From the moment they walk in, they’re welcomed like family. Their team believes that exceptional medicine begins with compassion— taking the time to listen, explain and guide each patient through every step of their journey.
With expertise spanning both adult and pediatric dermatology, the team cares for patients of all ages in a warm, supportive environment. From early detection to advanced treatment, they are dedicated not only to healing skin but also to lifting spirits and building trust.
At Swann Dermatology Partners, cancer care isn’t just about treatment—it’s about walking alongside patients with heart, hope and healing.
BY
417-882-4880 | OHACLINIC.COM
3850 S. NATIONAL, SUITE 600, SPRINGFIELD
802 EAST HIGHWAY 60, MONETT
1216 DEADRA DRIVE, LEBANON
Oncology Hematology Associates (OHA) has delivered community-based cancer care since 1979. With three locations—Springfield, Lebanon, and Monett—OHA keeps patients close to home, family and support networks throughout treatment, which for some can span many years. New patients are seen within a week, and self-referrals and second opinions are welcome. OHA provides specialized care including chemotherapy, hormonal therapies, immunotherapies, targeted therapies, access to clinical trials, and supportive services like DigniCap. Patients also benefit from onsite financial counselors. With expert physicians and compassionate care, OHA eases the burden of treatment and offers every patient a trusted path forward.
417-875-3381 | COXHEALTH.COM
1001 E. PRIMROSE ST., SPRINGFIELD
Dr. David Anderson is a board-certified urologist at CoxHealth, where he has been serving patients with expertise and compassion since 2005. A graduate of the University of Iowa College of Medicine, he completed his residency in Urology at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Dr. Anderson specializes in prostate cancer treatment and robotic surgery, offering advanced, patient-centered care with a focus on achieving optimal health outcomes. Named one of America’s Best Prostate Cancer Surgeons by Newsweek in 2024, Dr. Anderson is known for his thoughtful approach and dedication to his field as he helps patients navigate complex health decisions with confidence.
At CoxHealth’s Infusion Center, patients are cared for like family. Its new space was designed with them in mind—brighter rooms, their own TVs, space for a loved one and even a healing garden to enjoy fresh air. With more room and more nurses, visits are smoother and quicker, so their time is respected. Whether it’s chemo, fluids or lab work, patients find a calm, welcoming environment where the team is there to ease worries and walk beside them every step of the way. Because at CoxHealth, this isn’t just treatment; it’s care close to home.
Results revealed in our February issue. Voting ends October 10.
This is your guide to pumpkin patches, small-town festivals, vivid autumn color and more. It’s the best time of year in the Ozarks. We rounded up your weekend plans, now all you have to do is go out and enjoy the fun!
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
YOUR GUIDE TO FOOTBALL FANDOM TWO WAYS: FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS AND UPGRADED LOCAL COLLEGE ATHLETICS
There’s just something so nostalgic about Friday Night Lights, when high school football players bring their best before cheering crowds of fans showing all the local love. It’s where decades-long rivalries play out on the field, cheerleaders bring the energy and everybody shows off their best school spirit. Between the lights, the sounds and the love of the game, nothing feels like fall more than a little Friday Night Lights
Some of the most well-known Ozarks-area high school rivalries include Glendale High School and Kickapoo High School (both Springfield-based adversaries) or Ozark High School and Nixa High School (neighboring towns with plenty of friendly competition between them). But if you can’t catch a classic rivalry game, any of these energy-packed events will be a fun way to cheer on local athletes. See the sidebar on p. 81 for a few of the games on the horizon this month.
This fall marks a big change for fall sports in the Ozarks. Missouri State University has made the move to Conference USA with new membership in the NCAA’s Football Bowl Subdivision, and this change is having big impacts—not just on MSU fans and the school’s student athletes, but on the community as a whole. In fact, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Patrick Ransdell and Head Football Coach Ryan Beard said at Biz 417’s Think Summit that the change means a whole lot more than just some new opponents on the schedule. It’s an opportunity for local businesses to gain widespread exposure thanks to the games’ planned national broadcasts on ESPN. The improved player experience will be an attractor when it comes to athlete recruitment, and the improved fan experience will be a big driver in Missouri State’s overall enrollment growth goals. As both speakers and moderator Callie Caroll-Swafford put it at Think Summit: This change is good for growth. The bigger and better MSU gets, the bigger and better the region gets. They grow together.
But what does that mean for you, as a local football fan? Well, along with an NCAA Division 1 conference upgrade (and the bigger potential audience that comes along with it), Missouri State spent much of the year upgrading Robert W. Plaster Stadium. The space now has all new high-performing Pivot Performance Turf 1.5, new high-tech LED stadium lights for impressive light shows, an expanded student tailgating space, more concessions than ever and a better infrastructure for those national ESPN broadcasts. The expanded concessions include a new Rivalry Grill, tasty Bear Bratwurst and upgraded beverage options. And of course, fans can watch from home on ESPN too.
So, What’s On the Schedule?
October 29
Missouri State Bears vs. Florida International University Panthers
November 15
Homecoming
Missouri State Bears vs. University of Texas at El Paso Miners
November 29
Missouri State Bears vs. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
BY JOSHUA BEECHER
Republic High School faced off against Ozark High School last fall for some Friday Night Lights fun.
Games You Won’t Want to Miss
October 3
Kickapoo High School vs. Nixa High School
October 10
Glendale High School vs. Ozark High School
October 10
Neosho High School vs. Joplin High School
October 17
Ozark High School vs. Nixa High School
October 17
Willard High School vs. Joplin High School
October 23
Republic High School vs. Willard High School
October 24
Joplin High School vs. Webb City High School
October 24
Nixa High School vs. Glendale High School
October 24
Ozark High School vs. Kickapoo High School
The Ozarks’ fall festivals are some of the quirkiest and most charming events happening during the quirkiest and most charming season. Here are a few you won’t want to miss.
Pumpkin Daze Republic
Date: October 3–4
Theme: pumpkins
Quirky reason to go: The giant pumpkin competition, where the orange gourds can weigh in at thousands of pounds!
Ozark Art & Crafts Fair Ozark
Date: October 3–5
Theme: local art
Quirky reason to go: The crafter booths seem to go on forever (more than 350 of them!) in Finley River Park.
Apple Butter Makin’ Days
Mount Vernon
Date: October 10–12
Theme: apple butter
Quirky reason to go: Apple butter is made in copper kettles, and there are so many funky contests: bubble gum blowing, wiener dog racing, a mustache competition and more.
Maple Leaf Festival
Carthage
Date: October 10–18
Theme: all things fall
Quirky reason to go: This fest claims to have the biggest parade in the region, along with funky fun like a chicken pageant and a marching band competition.
Grape & Fall Festival
Hollister
Date: October 11
Theme: grape harvest Quirky reason to go: There’s a grape-stomping competition. Enough said!
THE SMELLS AND TASTES OF THE SEASON ARE PERFECT TO GET YOU IN THAT AUTUMN STATE OF MIND. HERE ARE A FEW TO TICKLE YOUR TASTE BUDS.
Fall Seasonal Treats
Andy’s Frozen Custard (several locations)
Andy’s never disappoints when it comes to seasonal flavors, but fall is for sure our favorite. You have pumpkin pie concretes, apple pie sundaes, s’mores jackhammers and the gigantic, hand-dipped, super-sticky, totally addictive caramel apples.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
The European (Springfield)
Everything seems to come in a pumpkin spice variety this time of year, but the pumpkin spice latte from The European is truly an elevated version. It features a homemade syrup that’s made with roasted pumpkin and ginger. This drink is the ultimate hug in a mug.
Apple Cider Slushies
Murphy Orchard (Marionville)
When you stop by the farmstand at Murphy Orchard to stock up on freshly picked apples and other fall harvest goodies, you have to order an apple cider slushie too. It’s crisp, sweet, cold and refreshing, and it just tastes like the perfect fall sip.
Apple Cider Donuts
Gardener’s Orchard (Brighton)
The soft and fluffy apple cider donuts at Gardener’s Orchard are the perfect snack attack satisfier, but here’s a hot tip for anybody with a big-time sweet tooth: You can get them dunked into an apple cider ice cream float too. Whoa!
Mr. Pumpkin
Mother’s Brewing Co. (Springfield)
This beloved pumpkin ale is brewed locally in Springfield and is much anticipated by its rabid fans year after year. It’s made with pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and mace.
Smoked Maple Latte
The Workshop at Finley Farms (Ozark)
This double-shot espresso latte evokes cozy bonfires on cool fall nights. It’s made with smoked maple syrup that’s made in-house and is topped with just a bit of smoked Maldon sea salt.
Up your decor game by creating a ceramic jack-olantern all your own. At Artistree Pottery (Springfield), you can choose a word to display, and they’ll carve it into the jack-o’-lantern’s mouth. Will you go the spooky route, or the cozy route?
Is it even fall if you don’t decorate your porch? At Wickman’s Garden Village you can get your hands on colorful mums and dried items like corn stalks and hay bales. (Which make great chairs for plastic skeletons, if spooky is your thing.)
Once a month, Backroad Relics in Bolivar opens for one weekend with a curated collection of vintage and home decor items. Fall is one of the best times to go, when seasonal flair hits the shelves. This month, the market is open October 9–11.
FALL IS AS MUCH A FEELING AS IT IS A SEASON, AND WE ROUNDED UP OUR FAVORITE WAYS TO FIND THOSE UNBEATABLE VIBES IN THE OZARKS.
have you ever caught a whiff of crisp leaves crunching underfoot and felt, miraculously, like a kid again? There’s just something about the sensory infusions that come with autumn that transports you.
Christmas can kind of do it. The first warm and sunny days of spring can kind of do it. But nothing compares to the exquisite vibes of a perfect fall day.
To celebrate this incomparable feeling, we’ve curated a collection of our favorite places and moments around the Ozarks that make this season the very best of all.
Everybody knows the landscape changes this time of year, but we recommend you keep an eye out for wonders beyond just changing leaf colors. Look to the ground and search for some Osage orange, those lime green and alien-looking fruits that fall from trees around the area. It’s not the only native fruit that emerges in fall. Edible goodies like pawpaws, persimmons and black walnuts are all ready to eat this time of year as well—and they all grow wild around the Ozarks.
You can find fall markets here and there around the Ozarks, but one of the best for immersive fall vibes is Schofield + Gray (Fordland), where pumpkins grace the winding pathways that take you from vendor to ven-
dor while witches’ hats strung from the trees above add a bit of whimsy and magic. As you walk through this shady outdoor market, you can shop for decor for your house, antiques, crafts and lots more while you take in the season.
From the road, this little urban farm might not look like much, but once you start to explore you’ll find that Fassnight Creek Farm (Springfield) is home to some of the best funky pumpkins in the area. There are pumpkins in every color (the sage green ones are our favorite) and every texture (we’ll take a warty gourd any day) and every size from itty bitty baby ones to massive monsters. And don’t even get us started on the mum selection. It’s the best place to infuse big fall vibes onto your front porch.
You can certainly get lost in The Maize (Aurora) at any time of day, since the expansive maze covers 5 acres of super-tall corn. But we recommend leaning into the spooky parts of the season and visiting after dark. That’s when the maze becomes more than just a genuinely confusing series of pathways—it also becomes a “haunted” Field of Screams. Yep, the creeps come out at night as actors in costume flood the maze, and the lack of light adds a whole new element to this bit of fall fun.
Overnight Camping
Camping just hits different this time of year. Summer camping means waking up inside a tentturned-oven covered in mosquito bites and sweating like crazy. Fall camping means cool nights cozied up around a bonfire with s’mores (then snuggled up in sleeping bags), and we love it. You can camp so many places around the Ozarks, but Mill Creek Campground (Lampe) on the shores of Table Rock Lake offers unbeatable scenic views.
What’s your ideal carving pumpkin shape? Tall and thin or short and squat? Or maybe you prefer to visit a pumpkin patch and let the pumpkin choose you. A great local patch that’s always worth a visit is the Pickin’ Patch Farm (Marionville), where you can pluck a carving pumpkin from the field or shop the market for more aesthetically pleasing pumpkin varieties for your home decor. Either way, you’ll love the shady area with cozy rocking chairs, a cute little pumpkin checker board hanging from a tree, vintage decor and mums everywhere.
Although one beloved apple-picking spot is no more as of this season (RIP to the orchard at Sunshine Valley Farm), there are a few other places where you can enjoy some fresh air while you pluck apples from the trees. A new favorite is Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery (Brighton). They grow 13 varieties, such as Fuji, Jonathan, Cameo and lots more. The farm is also home to tasty concessions, a pumpkin patch, fall flower picking, a giant slide, a petting zoo and more. Visit on a cool day to really feel the fall love.
Meet Barry Brown, the master pumpkin carver at Silver Dollar City whose creative approach to carving is what gives Harvest Festival its supremely festive vibe.
although barry brown spends most of the year at his home in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, visitors to Silver Dollar City can spot him throughout the fall at the park’s Harvest Festival, where he shows off his craft as the Master Pumpkin Carver. He does daily carving demonstrations and takes commissions from guests—and his hands are responsible for carving 500 of the more than 1,300 carved foam pumpkins that decorate every street of Silver Dollar City (alongside 20,000 fresh pumpkins).
It’s a gig he’s had since before the park’s Harvest Festival began, when the Silver Dollar City team brought him in to visit the park. He was charmed by the forest setting, the focus on craftsmanship and the company’s values. Brown said he thought he could carve 100 pumpkins that summer in preparation for the first Harvest Festival. Silver Dollar’s crew countered: Could he do 500?
“Five hundred!” Brown says. “I was cookin’, man.” They arrived at his Colorado home on pallets, and he got every single one carved just in time for the festival debut.
When Brown approaches a new pumpkin, he doesn’t necessarily have a design in mind. He lets the pumpkin guide him, observing the shape, the curve of the stem, the personality.
“The very first pumpkin I carved was at about 10 with my mom’s paring knife,” he says. “I made paper decorations for it. I looked at it, contemplated it and thought, ‘What are you? What do you want to say?’ I ended up carving a half-moon with a face on it.” Sometimes, he asks guests what designs they have in mind. Once, that led to him carving “Will you marry me?” on a pumpkin that became the centerpiece of a proposal.
Brown loves to talk about the light that shines from inside a jack-o’-lantern. When you’re carving, he says, you have to hold your judgment until the light comes on, even if (or especially if!) you think your carving skills aren’t quite up to snuff. “The light changes so much,” he says. “It’s a great metaphor for the light inside of us. When the light shines out of us through kindness, gentleness, care and helpfulness, it changes things. It changes us. It’s transformative.”
Spooky season is upon us, and these spots don’t disappoint.
Ultimate Trick-or-Treating
There’s movie trick-or-treating, where the whole town is out and about, roaming the streets, crunching over fallen leaves and scaring the heck out of each other for fun. And then there’s real-life trick-or-treating, which is sometimes a lonelier affair, depending on where you live. Well, Halloween in the Rountree neighborhood (Springfield) embodies that quintessential Halloween movie essence in real life. Every house is decorated. Spooky music is playing. The parade is poppin’ and the streets are full. We love it!
Pumpkins Everywhere
Speaking of houses that are decorated for spooky season, there’s one that blows our minds year after year. The Pumpkin Haunt (Nixa) is a cute little unassuming house most of the year, but at Halloween, it glows orange, surrounded by more jack-o’-lanterns than you can count, creepy coffins and 12-foot skeletons that lord over their macabre domain. It’s worth a drive to Nixa to check it out. Just don’t drive by too quickly. Take a second to check out all the quirky little details, like the black buntings hanging from the roof line.
A Little Haunted History
History Museum on the Square is bringing back its Haunted History Walking Tours (Springfield) again this year. You can join a museum guide on a trek through three sites in downtown Springfield, where they tell stories of alleged hauntings, delve into some creepy true crime events and talk about some interesting folklore. It’s a great chance to learn a little (and get a little bitty bit scared too). Walking tours are offered Fridays and Saturdays through November 1, and bus tours are offered October 24–25.
Witch, Please!
Yes, yes, yes, we’re hyping Rountree for the second time in this list. We can’t help it, though. This neighborhood just knows how to do Halloween right! Their newest spooky tradition: Witches Weekend (October 17–18), an event in the Pickwick Avenue and Cherry Street area that’s packed with aura photography, tarot readings, tea leaf readings, crafts and lots more. Friday night is more of an adult-centric event, while Saturday is family-friendly (so you can bring your lil’ witches along too).
BY
CRISP AIR, CRUNCHY LEAVES AND YOUR FAVORITE HIKING BOOTS ARE ALL YOU NEED FOR THE PERFECT OUTDOORS WEEKEND.
Bluff Trail
Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area, 1 hour south of Springfield
Just down the road in Branson, this not-so-remote park offers surprisingly scenic paths. It’s a gem, hidden in plain sight. Several trails lead to an old homestead, a wet-weather waterfall and Lake Taneycomo views.
Devil’s Honeycomb Trail
Hughes Mountain Natural Area, 3 hours east of Springfield
It’s a bit of a trek from Springfield, but the payoff is worth it. Devil’s Honeycomb Trail leads to a wide mountaintop overlook covered in honeycomb-shaped rhyolite rock formations jutting out of the ground.
Greater Ozarks Audubon Trail
Lake Springfield Park, southeast Springfield
If you only visit Lake Springfield for the kayak rentals, then you need to head there in fall to hike a bit. This trail follows scenic bluffs and leads to spots that overlook the James River and Lake Springfield.
are
Goat Trail to Big Bluff
Centerpoint Trailhead, 1 hour 45 minutes south of Springfield
This is a more strenuous northwest Arkansas trail, perfect for daring hikers unafraid of heights. The sprawling bluff-top view of rolling hills and the Buffalo National River is unbeatable during peak fall color.
IF YOU WANT FALL VIEWS WITHOUT THE HASSLE OF A HIKE, SCENIC DRIVES, EASY RIDES AND ZIPLINES ARE FOR YOU.
Did you know you can board the Ozark Zephyr in downtown Branson, climb into a seat on the glass-domed viewing car and eat a plated meal while you watch the fall-colored Ozarks hills roll by? Yep, believe it or not, Branson Scenic Railway offers more than just those wildly popular Polar Express tours in the winter. Oh, and if you want the views without the dinner, you can book a simple fall color excursion too—no meal included.
Another great option if you don’t want to have to lift a finger is the Lady Liberty yacht, which you can book for a variety of cruises through Big Cedar Lodge. They take you around Table Rock Lake, so you can view the fall color from the water—a magical experience. Cruise themes include brunch cruises, wine dinner cruises, seafood cruises and more.
There are a handful of different tours you can take around the Branson area via Pink Jeep Tours (including ones focused around lakes and landmarks, downtown Branson destinations and more). We recommend the Ozark Mountain Crawl option for a fall excursion. This guided Jeep Wrangler tour takes you to see wide vistas around the Branson area that offer the most fall-color bang for your buck.
Now, if you really want to get high above the trees, opt for a helicopter tour that takes off from Branson. It’s a view of the Ozarks hills like no other. Chopper Charter offers a handful of cleverly named tours (The Preview, The Matinee), but if you spring for the biggest one (The Encore) you’ll get to see even more of the wooded hills and Table Rock Lake views that make the region so gorgeous.
Branson Zipline
Or maybe instead of soaring above the trees, you want to sail straight through the canopy. We got you: What you need for that is a zipline. Branson Zip Line has 10 sky bridges and seven ziplines peppered around Wolfe Mountain, and you can glide from one to the other as you explore. It puts you right in the middle of all that fall color— and offers a bit of a thrill too.
Fall Drives
And finally, the easiest way to see fall color is to hop in your car and hit the road. In the Ava area, Glade Top Trail National Forest Scenic Byway offers 23 miles of quiet wooded wonders with a few scenic overlooks. Near Cassville, Sugar Camp Scenic Byway offers a great drive to cap off a day at Roaring River State Park. Then down in northwest Arkansas you can hit the Pig Trail Scenic Byway, the Arkansas Scenic 7 Byway or Mount Magazine Scenic Byway.
FIND THE PERFECT FALL COLOR EXCURSION FOR YOU
Do you want to take the wheel?
Nope. I thought this was supposed to be easy?
Always.
Are you scared of heights?
Kinda.
Heck no.
Do you want to be in the foliage or above it?
The higher the better! I want to feel like Tarzan.
Do you want dinner with your views?
Yum! Yes, please.
Nah, I’m not hungry.
Do you want Table Rock Lake to be part of the equation?
I’ll stick to the land.
The answer to that is always yes.
BY
TURN THE PAGE TO FIND PIPING HOT DINING NEWS AND SOME EXTRADELICIOUS OZARKS EATS.
Brothers Lijah and Logan Sparlin purchased Wheelhouse in 2023. They’ve put together a culinary dream team of old and new team members from Kansas City to Manhattan.
BY TESSA COOPER
PHOTOGRAPHED
BY
BRANDON ALMS
ARE YOU READY TO DIG INTO THE YUMMIEST STUFF AROUND? LET’S EAT!
Confession: before
I visited the reimagined Wheelhouse, I was a skeptic. I don’t love change, and I had already heard they quit serving my beloved peanut chicken nachos. But despite it all, they completely won me over.
I was feeling adventurous, so I ordered the Toad and Thistle for my cocktail. It features a shiitake butter-washed London Dry gin as the key ingredient, paired with rye whiskey and artichoke amaro, all rounded out with a touch of maple, chocolate and orange bitters. For all the flavors layered in this drink, it was surprisingly smooth and even a bit nutty.
My husband, Chandler, is a big fan of Negronis, so he decided to go with the Rice & Spice, a riff on this classic drink. The addition of rice starch and sake paired with an unexpected layer of nori on the ice cube was a nice nod to the other Japanese flavors present throughout the menu.
Confession number two: These drinks were so good we ordered a second round, and the Dr. Tango ended up being our favorite. It features Dr. Pepper, plus many other delicious additions that bring notes of cherry and lime. But it was the salted cherry blossom boba garnish that really made this a memorable drink.
Tracy Johanna, beverage director, is a Springfield native who moved back home after working in the New York beverage industry for two decades. I love that she’s not afraid to push the envelope with daring flavor combinations.
We ordered the banchan fries as a starter, and I was taken aback by how the strong flavors in the hot mustard and kimchi worked perfectly in unison to make a great topping.
TRY IT
$$-$$$ Wheelhouse
I chose the coconut salmon as my main, and it was a solid decision. One of my favorite aspects of this dish was the duqqa topping, which added an earthy flair and just the right amount of crunch. The plating was stunning, and the way they tightly rolled the bok choy made for easy consumption. Chandler ordered the carne asada, which he described as having the perfect sear. He particularly loved the jeow som sauce, which had a spicy, umami flavor.
to get more culinary experience, and both coincidentally got to work under James Beardnominated chefs during their time away.
307 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, 417-848-3888, wheelhousefood.com, Mon–Sat: 5 p.m.–12 a.m.
This was one of those meals where I wanted to be a cliché and send my compliments to the chef, which in this case is Trevor Dean and Daniel Love. They are two of the first Wheelhouse employees, dating back to when it was a food truck. The two temporarily left
If you’re looking for more of a casual experience, turn your attention to the family-style meals. But better yet, don’t go in expecting the same casual experience of old Wheelhouse days. I learned that as my palate has matured over the years, Wheelhouse has matured with it.
These three indulgent and extra-large dishes will reveal whether your eyes really are bigger than your stomach.
BY TESSA COOPER
The Giant Mozzy Sticks from Bada Bing Wing Company are a local social media sensation, particularly because they make for the ultimate cheese pull. One order comes with two 6-inch mozzarella sticks plus plenty of marinara sauce and ranch for dipping.
Before & After Brewing’s Brahaus pretzel with cheese is impressively large in its own right. But if you’re really ready to take on a challenge, order it loaded. It comes topped with practically too many delights to fit in print. Think pulled pork, pickled red onions and shredded cheddar cheese.
The stuffed bacon cheddar tots from BigShots Golf are, for lack of a better word, big. The gochujang ranch dipping sauce offers extra flavor for these extra-large tots.
There’s nothing like a leisurely stroll around Farmers Market of the Ozarks (FMO) on a Saturday when you have nowhere to be. And if you take the time to chat with the vendors, you’re guaranteed to learn something new. On one recent visit, I stumbled upon Old Country Chimney Cake’s booth and left knowing more about Hungary’s oldest pastry, the chimney cake. Ildiko Pearson owns the business with her daughter, Anita Kiss, and the recipe for their chimney cake is one rooted in over a century of their Hungarian heritage. Pearson made a few small, thoughtful chang-
Old Country Chimney Cake makes Hungary’s traditional pastry with new updates.
es to this family recipe to elevate its flavor while honoring its rich history. They use high-quality non-GMO unbleached flour and organic ingredients to produce these hollow pastries that make the perfect vessel for all sorts of fillings. The cinnamon, walnut and almond ones taste delicious with Nutella or ice cream topped with fruit, and the savory cheese with Italian herbs makes for a great sandwich. You can find them at FMO on Republic Road year-round, the downtown FMO through the rest of this month and a few other markets scattered throughout the Ozarks.
COCKTAIL HOUR
Ariake’s Jung-Sung Hero cocktail is a complex burst of flavor.
BY TESSA COOPER
When a restaurant’s menu has a drink on it named after the owners, you know it’s going to be good. The Jung-Sung Hero cocktail from Ariake is no exception. This cocktail contains contrasting flavors that play well together. The pisco and passionfruit give it a tart kick that’s perfectly balanced by just a dash of simple syrup. The addition of green tea grounds it all with an earthy element, but the cacao is the surprise hit that makes this cocktail an overall aromatic experience.
Tapa is a short word for a small dish that packs a ton of flavor. Vantage’s menu is full of small plates, but it’s the spicy Spanish-inspired chorizo chicken that we consider a true tapa. Chef Calvin Davis seasons the chicken with dried
Discover spicy Spanish-inspired chorizo chicken from Vantage.
chorizo and cooks it sous vide to ensure maximum tenderness. But here’s the real kicker: He finishes it all off with some time in the oven to crisp the skin. It also comes with a side of patatas bravas, crispy potatoes paired with garlic aioli.
Bruno’s Italian Restaurant’s updated menu features a list of hearty Italian sandwiches.
BY TESSA COOPER
runo’s italian Restaurant has been operating under new ownership since the beginning of the year. Aubrey Kennedy is now at the helm and has been serving up some tasty changes, including the reintroduction of lunch service. The lunch menu shows off many of the dinner
offerings, but you’ll also find a hefty list of hearty sandwiches with a little something for everyone. The meatball sub is certainly a standout, featuring housemade meatballs doused in marinara sauce, topped with mozzarella, pecorino, and fresh basil, all on a toasted baguette. And once lunch service ends at 2 p.m., bar service begins upstairs at The Kennedy. It’s 5 o’clock somewhere, so why not?
We caught up with Kaycee Vandelicht and Travis Barry, the faces behind Ingredient, to learn the story behind their passion for bringing good food to Springfield through Sunday Supper Club at Good Spirits & Company HQ and other private events.
BY TESSA COOOPER
Kaycee vandelicht and Travis Barry share a love for each other and for nourishing food made with simple, wholesome ingredients. The two met in high school and later spent three summers traveling across America, Canada and Europe together, exposing their taste buds to incredible flavors along the way. “We started to learn about the world,” Vandelicht says. “I feel like traveling when you’re younger opens up your eyes and food palate.”
The couple’s first culinary project together was VanDeli, a farm-to-deli counter in the original MaMa Jean’s Natural Market, Jean’s Healthway Natural Foods, in Ava. While they’ve since moved on to other projects, opening VanDeli was their master course in cooking from scratch using locally grown ingredients.
Vandelicht is now the special events director at Good Spirits & Company, and Barry manages his brother’s farm in Ava, splitting his time between there and Springfield. Ingredient is their newest joint project, and you can taste their culinary creations at Good Spirits & Company HQ’s Sunday Supper Club and other fun pop-ups.
The two utilize ordinary but seasonal produce (often grown by Barry) to whip up extraordinary dishes. Take one of their recent Sunday Supper Club dishes as an example. The couple dressed up Japanese Hokkaido Scallops in apricot chutney, pink peppercorn, thyme and pine nuts. They served it all on a bed of Parmesan polenta, but not just any polenta. It was polenta made with Ozark corn that they ground by hand. And if you’re ever at Good Spirits & Company HQ when the Basque cheesecake is on the menu, you best order it.
“Food is way more than just what you put into your body,” Vandelicht says. “It literally affects your physical, your mental and your emotional health, and your soul. You can’t be the best version of yourself unless you’re feeding yourself well. Teaching people that is one of our biggest missions.”
KAYCEE’S BASQUE CHEESECAKE
Makes one whole cheesecake, serves 8.
Ingredients
2 pounds of room temperature organic cream cheese
250 grams of fine-ground organic coconut sugar
6 large, local pasture-raised eggs, room temperature
2 cups of grass-fed heavy cream
40 grams of organic cassava flour
1 teaspoon vanilla or 1 vanilla bean
1 teaspoon salt
Preparation
Heat oven to 420° F. Bring cream cheese to room temperature (tip: soak it in a warm water bath). Wipe down a 10-inch deep pot or springform pan with butter and line the pot with parchment. Set aside. Prepare your coconut sugar by fine grinding it in a spice blender. Beat cream cheese and coconut sugar together in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Add eggs one at a time. Beat until fully incorporated and creamy. Add heavy cream, vanilla and salt. Mix until smooth. Sift the cassava flour into your batter and mix until incorporated. Pour your batter into your parchment-lined pot (or springform pan). Bake for 45 minutes to an hour, until the top is medium golden and the batter jiggles slightly. Chill in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
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.
$ = under $10, $$ = mostly $10-20, $$$ = $20 or more
B, L, = Serves Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner d= Outdoor seating
14 MILL MARKET
203 E. Mount Vernon St., Nixa, 14millmarket.com Food hall. There are 10 restaurant concepts, the full-service Wisner Bar and a fun outdoor entertainment area. Stop by for Korean barbecue bowls at The Gochu, sweets at Liege Love Waffle Co., tacos at No’cho Ordinary Taco, pretty desserts and boba tea at Keikeu, burgers at MO Slider Company and more. $–$$ L d
ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8831234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs.com. American fare. This is a great spot for a full night of fun plus food all in one building. The restaurant at Andy B’s Entertainment Center offers lane-side food service and a menu full of hearty, tasty fare like burgers, pizzas, pasta and more. If you have any pint-size bowlers, get the hot pretzel. It’s a kid-pleaser. Bonus: There’s a full-service bar here, too. $ L
AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS
2144 E. Republic Road, Suite E120, Springfield, 417-881-9736; aviarycafe. com
Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes—which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there’s so much more besides crepes. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French flair. Be sure to try dishes infused with Lavender Falls flavors, like the lavender honey and goat cheese app served with crostini and fresh berries. $–$$ B L d
BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL
3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3685919; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-7325077; 701 N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-7253777; bairsburgers.com Burgers. There are 22 appetizers and 50 burgers on the menu at Bair’s, plus plenty of non-burger sandwiches, great chicken wings and salads. $ L d
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, including the pretzel burger with horseradish aioli, bacon and cheddar. There are also chicken wings, a handful of salads (we like the Strawberry Hill), hand-cut steaks and more. $$ B L d
3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040 Cajun. The jambalaya is fantastic, and we like to order it extra-spicy. The oyster po’boys are customer favorites, and the boudin (Cajun sausage balls) are not to be missed. Try mix-and-match dishes to create a meal full of your favorite Cajun flavors (you can order a side of red beans and rice with a po’boy, for example). Or you could just keep it simple and dig into the peeland-eat shrimp. $ L dK
1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-4273040, bigshotsgolf.com American. Come for the golf but stay for the good eats. There are great burgers (like the double smash burger with Hatch green chilis), pizza, wings and lots of shareable apps like the crispy red chili cauliflower. Don’t miss the fun cocktails. We loved the Bee Sting, made with tequila, agave, grapefruit, lime juice and jalapeño. So good! Be sure to stop by for brunch on the weekends. $$ B L d
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. Anything that includes the ceviche is a sure-bet. You can even order the Leche de Tigre appetizer to get your ceviche fix—it is a shot of ceviche juice with hot sauce and a chilled shrimp chaser. $$ L d
Four Springfield locations; blaaacksheep.com Burgers. This swanky but comfortable burger joint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield Village and on East Sunshine Street. Chow down on the Good Yogi; two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and baaad sauce— house-made Thousand Island dressing. For the adults, we recommend trying the Purple Haze shake with blackberry moonshine in it. $ L
206 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-701-1130 Farm-to-table. All of the freshly baked pastries and breads are amazing here. They do some creative things with pastry, from tender galettes filled with loads of luscious lemon curd to flaky pot pies filled with savory meats and veggies. Many of the ingredients are from Blue Heron Farm and other local and regional producers. We love the sausage roll served with pickles and whole-grain mustard, and the almond croissant is oh-so-dreamy. $ B L
at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org
American. Located on the grounds of Dogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon Grill Restaurant has a menu inspired by its surroundings. Try the bison burger made with bacon and caramelized onion topped with fire-roasted poblano peppers and pepper-jack cheese. Other great options include the trout cakes appetizer, the roasted asparagus salad and the short rib and grits entree. $–$$ L d
15058 Business Highway 13, Branson West, cellar417.com
Bistro fare. With a great wine list and a huge deck overlooking the Ozarks hills, this is a great spot to sip and eat with friends. A lot of the dishes have an Italian flare. Start with the hummus and whipped feta shareable to munch on with your friends, or order one of the entrees like cacio e pepe or confit chicken. $$–$$$ L d
2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-3681739, cellarandplate.wine Wine bar. At Cellar+Plate you can get exceptional wine and tasty food in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Customers love the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. Don’t miss the Cellar Board with meats, cheeses and fruits. And as you can probably guess from the name, Cellar+Plate has a great wine menu. $$ d
CHATEAU GRILLE
415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-243-1777, chateauonthelake.com
Contemporary American. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Chateau Grille offers gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake. And you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. The restaurant focuses on upscale, seasonal cuisine, flying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award-winning menu. Open daily during the regular season; open during weekends only during the off-season. $$$ B L d
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. In the mornings, the coffee drinks are always well done. $ B L d
If you have a foodie story idea, news about a local restaurant, or a correction to one of our Dining Guide listings, email our editorial team at yum@417mag.com.
107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417501-8456, 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. Favorite dishes include salmon with fruit pico de gallo or the gigantic onion rings. $ B L 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 daily. $$ L
DERBY DELI
2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066
Bistro fare. Located inside Brown Derby International Wine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus board and more. We love the Martin’s salad, topped with a scoop of chicken salad. Don’t miss the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham, President’s butter and Gruyere on a baguette. Don’t miss the espresso drinks at the coffee counter or the weekend brunch. $ B L
at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, 417-335-2777, bigcedar.com
American. Here you can enjoy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. For an appetizer, the smoked trout is fantastic, and so is the cornbread topped with cracked pepper maple butter and smoked bacon. The entrees change with the season and are always the perfect blend of rustic and upscale. Brunch Sundays. $$–$$$ B L d
1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu
American. College of the Ozarks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farmto-table quality. There’s a fried green tomato caprese appetizer that uses pickled tomatoes and a housemade mozzarella cheese. The Keeter Center also has a creamery servingl homemade ice creams and sorbets. $$ L d
24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse.com
American. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour House offers some musttry dishes like the giant Bavarian pretzel appetizer, the queso-smothered tamales and the blackened mahi mahi entree. Don’t miss the wagyu burgers. $–$$ L
2620 S. Glenstone Avenue, Springfield, 417-864-6994, farmersgastropub.com
Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and changes regularly. The entrees are well priced and satisfying, like the Scotch eggs and the chicken chop salad (arugula, kale, cabbage, blue cheese, boiled egg, pumpkin seeds, buttermilk dressing). There’s also a great selection of beer, and the burgers and fish and chips are always delicious. On a nice day, sit outside on the patio. $$ B L d
2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8665253, oasisfireandice.com
Global cuisine. This spot (located inside Oasis Hotel & Convention Center) specializes in dry-aged steaks and certified Angus beef and has a menu that changes with the seasons. Be sure to try the Fire & Ice Whiskey Burger. Other tasty options include seared Japanese tuna loin, adobo-rubbed flat iron steak, red curry lamb chops, and more. Sit at the bar for a unique experience: You can watch cooks in the open kitchen while resting your drink on the ice bar. $$ L d
GARRISON at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com
Shareable fine dining. Located beneath the Ozark Mill at Finley Farms, The Garrison features a dark and moody speakeasy vibe, a fine dining menu and a beautiful riverside patio. Try the mini pot roast, the forest panzanella salad or the rosemary pound cake. $$$ 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, grilled salmon, salads and sweet potato fries. $ L d
HACKETT HOT WINGS
520 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-625-1333, hacketthotwings.com
American. The wings at Hackett Hot Wings are fantastic and come in 13 flavors (ranging from tame barbecue sauce to super-fiery hot sauces that pack a huge punch). We’re partial to the hot and honey sauce. Try the sweet potato puffs or breaded cheese curds too. $ L
Nearly Famous Deli and Pasta House has been in business for almost 50 years, and Nancy Miller has owned the restaurant for a little over 19 of those. Recently, she announced that she has sold the business to Tiffany and Dan Brown. Here’s the best part: They don’t plan on changing a thing. We call this a good thing. Not because we’re afraid of change, but when a business has been successful for nearly half a century in this industry, it’s one of those situations where you don’t fix what isn’t broken. Here’s to another 50 years of this Springfield institution. Now, all this talk of Nearly Famous has us craving a good turkey club.—Tessa Cooper
8011 E. State Highway
AD, Rogersville, 417-8303656, harvestmo.com
Farm-to-table. Dining at Harvest Restaurant is an experience like none other in 417-land. Owners, Craig and Tamara Von Foerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper-seasonal, local cuisine. The menu is always in flux depending on what is in-season. Our tip: Order whatever seafood option is currently on the menu. $$$ d
2431 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8627777; houlihans.com
American. The fish tacos and burgers are fantastic, and we love the enormous nachos appetizer along with the vast salad selection. The salad that features banana chips and seared tuna is a fave. Grab some friends and share a few small plates. When the weather is nice, get a table on the patio, where you can gather around a fire pit while you enjoy your meal. $–$$ L d
HUEY MAGOO’S CHICKEN TENDERS
3352 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8128020, hueymagoos.com
Chicken tenders. This spot offers chicken tenders (both fried or grilled) in platters, sandwiches, salads and wraps. $–$$ L
1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield; 2150 E. Sunshine St., Springfield; hy-vee.com
American and more. It’s all about variety when it comes to the food at HyVee, so it’s a great place to find something for every member of your family— even the picky ones! You have a hibachi grill, a pizzeria, hearty comfort food, sushi, Chinese dishes and burgers. $–$$ B L
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. $$ B L
MAMA G’S KITCHEN
2463 W. Sunshine St., Ste. 124; 210 S. Market, Ste. 124; Springfield; mamagkitchen.com
Southern. Mama G’s Kitchen started out with a spot at Metro Eats (the Sunshine Street location). Now, they’ve added a second outpost (the Market St. location). Come here for comforting dishes like fried pork chops, catfish, meatloaf and more. Sides are great too. $$ L
METROPOLITAN GRILL
2931 E. Battlefield, Springfield, 417-889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com
Eclectic fine dining. Known for its delectable flash-fried spinach, this restaurant specializes in steaks and seafood. The salads are always fresh and delicious. And we love that the menu is always changing, giving us something new to be excited about—in a familiar space. The cocktails are delicious and the wine menu is great. $$$ d
MUNDOS LATIN
KITCHEN & BAR
5493 N. 17th St., Ozark, 417-485-2160, mundoslatinkitchen.com Latin. The menu here features dishes from many Latin cuisines, including Mofongo (mashed plantains with chicarron), lomo saltado, tostones, tacos and tons more. We love the jicama taco. $$ L
2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8833403, nearlyfamous.net
eli and Italian. Regulars love the weekly specials: egg salad on Fridays, pear sandwiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastic, and it goes well with just about any sandwich at this friendly spot. It’s hopping at lunchtime. $$ B L
1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, neighborsmill.com
eli and bakery. This full time bakery offers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches, soups and salads. Don’t miss the honey pecan chicken salad, which comes on Bronze honey wheat bread, or the Reuben, which comes on pumpernickel rye bread. They have two soups of the day, one of which is vegetarian. $ B L
4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8899596, eatoceanzen.com Asian fusion fine dining. Try Chilean sea bass or the macadamia nut chicken. We particularly love ordering the Hawaii Five-O sushi roll; with seared rare tuna and a pineapple salsa, it’s a tasty combination of savory, sweet, spicy and refreshing. Don’t miss the steaks. $$–$$$ L d
THE ORDER
at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, theordersgf.com
New American. The food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from-scratch kitchen. Try Executive Chef Calvin Davis’s spin on cashew chicken or the market fish specials that change daily. Try the brunch. $$–$$$
OSAGE RESTAURANT at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-2256343, topoftherock.com American fine dining. Take in beautiful views from the dining room at Osage Restaurant, located at Top of the Rock, and enjoy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The fried chicken is stellar, and the cocktails menu always offers created and delicious options. Reservations are recommended. $$$ B
THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT
at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com
Farm-to-table. Inside the beautifully restored Ozark Mill, you can order upscale farm-to-table meals that are made with ingredients grown right at Finley Farms or produced in their onsite apiary. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters appetizer made with artichoke, sausage, mozzarella and served over a pickled pepper aioli. We also love the Chicken & Dumplins made with cornbread gnocchi and the simple but so delicious gem lettuce salad. $$–$$$ L 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. lt’s the perfect way to customize your meal. $$–$$$ L d
PIER 28 PIZZA & GRILL
344 Nautical Circle, Kimberling City, 417-5271580, pier28pizzagrill.com
American. Come for lakeside views and a menu filled with pizza, burgers, tacos and more. If you love fried pickles, get an order of the spicy pickle chips to share. And if you’re looking for something on the lighter side, the menu offers several tasty salad options. Check website for seasonal hours. $$ L
1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-3798614, facebook.com/ QueenCitySoulKitchen Soul food. The menu changes from week to week here, but the offerings are always delicious. Find comforting fare like meatloaf, fried chicken wings, smothered pork chops and more. Make sure you leave room for peach cobbler or bread pudding. $–$$ L
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. $$ B L
RED ONION CAFÉ
204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, redonioncafe.com
American and Italian
Diners love the bacon-wrapped shrimp, the blackened tuna sandwich or Dave’s fried chicken salad. Try the BLT&A. (The A stands for avocado... yum!) There’s even a section of the menu with keto-friendly options that are low-carb and gluten-free. $$ L
We’re super-excited about a tasty-looking place that officially opened in Branson recently. Don Vrgas Mariscos & Grill serves a pretty classic Mexican menu with a coastal influence, and therefore lots of seafood. Think ceviche and shrimp fajitas. But here’s one extra unique offering that actually makes sense given that latter fact: They also have a fried sushi boat offering. Sushi alongside some tableside guac? We honestly think they are onto something and hope they lean more into this Asian-Mexican fusion as they get their footing.—Tessa Cooper
2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7201708, eatretrometro.com
Contemporary American
The aptly named Retro Metro serves some of Metropolitan’s greatest hits, including flash-fried spinach and chicken spiedini. But there are original items on the menu as well, from Chef Tiny himself. During happy hour, come in for waygu or crab cake sliders and more. $$$
1410 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715357, showmechuy.com
Italian-Mexican fusion. This fusion spot offers Italian options like pasta carbonara, Mexican options like bright-and-fresh shrimp aguachile and combos of the both cuisines. Brunch is served on Sundays. $ B L
3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7557155, splitspringfield.com American. Come for creative and beautifully prepared shareables and hearty entrees, all served a teeny restaurant space that packs a lot of good vibes. We love the macaroni and cheese. The menu always changes with the seasons, but recently we’ve loved the Ooo Mami Tacos filled with delicious seared sashimi-grade tuna. $$ L
1198 State Highway NN, Ozark, 816-838-1664, volleyballbeachozark.com
American. You probably already know you can play sand volleyball year-round at Volleyball Beach Ozark. But did you know you can grab dinner and drinks too? They offer chicken wings with several sauce options, a few types of pizza, burgers and more.
$–$$
301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315
American. The burgers are top-notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken breast are a favorite (try the one with spicy Cajun chicken—yum!). Come hungry enough to order dessert because the cakes are stellar. Our favorite is the dreamy banana cake. $–$$ L
621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417-883-2462, teabarandbites.com. Bistro fare. Everything we’ve tasted at Tea Bar & Bites has been fantastic. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, flaky crust. We love any of the menu items that have a Mediterranean flair. The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. There are tasty baked goods too. $ B L d
VAN GOGH’S EETERIE
334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie.com Indo-utch. Dutch pancakes, chicken witlof and other Indo-Dutch and Dutch-inspired cuisine populate the menu here. We love the pancakes— especially the Farm Near Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. $$ B L
CROSSTOWN BBQ
1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646
Try the ribs or the brisket. The Big Pappa Dinner is a signature dish, and it features tons of meat including ribs, brisket and hot links. We loved the smoked chicken salad for something that feels healthy and indulgent at the same time. And as for sides, you have to go with the crispy fried okra. $–$$ L
GETTIN’ BASTED
307 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, wheelhousefood.com. Asian fusion. The pad Thai and drunken noodle are longtime favorites, but the restaurant’s new location and menu also have some new dishes. The Banchan Fries topped with homemade kimchi are a musttry! $ L
BBQ
2002 South Campbell Avenue, Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com
Diners love the ribs and the burnt ends at this classic barbecue eatery. We can’t get enough of the killer smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. Don’t miss the jalapeño bottle caps. . $ L d
CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE
3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7201113, citybutchersgf.com
At this Texas-style barbecue spot, the meat is smoked in small batches for optimal freshness. Killer brisket, pulled pork and other favorites are sold first-come, first-served with a few simple but delicious side dishes. The smoked chocolate chip cookies are super-fun. $–$$ L d
5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com
2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com
Come here for award-winning barbecue in all your favorite varieties: brisket, ribs, pulled pork and more. The seven wagyu burgers on the menu are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong with homemade pimento cheese, barbecue nachos and more. We can’t get enough of the pork tacos appetizer, featuring pulled pork tacos on grilled tortillas with slaw and pineapple. $–$$ L
HEADY BAR-B-QUE CO.
573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq. com
This spot specializes in Kansas City–style barbecue. Among stellar ribs, brisket and more perfectly prepared meats, you can find unexpected dishes with a barbecue spin: nachos, salads, a burrito. The sandwiches are all packed with ingredients, liked the Hogwallop. $–$$ L
PAPPY’S PLACE
943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744
Be sure not to miss the pork spare ribs with Pappy’s barbecue sauce or the barbecue nachos at this long-running Springfield institution. (Perk: We’ve heard that Pappy’s sells the very coldest beer in town.) $ L
Billy Gail’s in Branson has been a beloved breakfast hotspot for ages, and it’s still going strong. The Ozark spot and has become just as popular. Come for massive pancakes and other breakfast fare. The Ozark location serves dinner on the weekends. $ B L
424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net
We love the creative takes on eggs Benedict that we’ve found at The Bruncheonette, whose menu changes weekly but is always interesting. Don’t miss your chance to order a plate of poutine, handcut fries topped with gravy, shredded cheese and a poached egg. $ B L
2946 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8890601; 3103 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-6337094; firstwatch.com
At First Watch you can find breakfast power bowls (like the one filled with quinoa, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, kale and eggs), lemon-ricotta pancakes, avocado toast, a superfood bowl with chia pudding and fruit and more. $ B L
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 with a side of sausage. $ B L
THE EUROPEAN
105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-986-4646, theeuropean417.com
The pastries are picture-perfect and taste just as good as they look. The cardamom buns are luxurious comfort food. And the breakfast and lunch dishes are inventive and superbly executed. We love the mousse cakes, the macarons and the strawberry pancakes. $ B L d
SLEEPY OPOSSUM CAFE
1423 E. Cherry St., Springfield, Ste. 101, 913730-6224, sleepyopossumcafe.com
This darling spot serves creative and always delicious breakfast fare. We are obsessed with their hashbrown quiches, and the homemade biscuits topped with everything seasoning are to die for. Any baked sweet is a dream here too. $ B L
BAO BAO CHINESE BISTRO
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite A104, Springfield, 417-877-7505 Chinese food fans, this is a must-try spot for you. We just keep hearing rave reviews about Bao Bao Chinese Bistro. This little spot in Chesterfield Village has a chef who used to own a restaurant in Shanghai, so there are authentic items. $ L
CHINESE CHEF
3029 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8834770; 1731 S. Enterprise Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2433
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. $ L
CORNER 21
1730 E. Republic Road, Ste. A, Springfield, 417-771-5666, corner21sgf.com
This restaurant’s menu offers a large variety of authentic Chinese dishes, including several Szechuanstyle meals. You’ll find braised pork belly with rice noodles, ribeye and enoki mushrooms in a curry broth, crispy fried pumpkin, spicy Szechuan fish and so much more. $ L d
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. Keep an eye out for new items, as they change up their menu a couple times a year. $–$$ L
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. $ L
1710 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-832-8889
While you can find Springfield Chinese favorites like cashew chicken on the menu at Triple Eights, you can also dig into more traditional Chinese fare. The mapo tofu is a must try, with its rich and spicy sauce. The Sichuan Maocai stew is worth a taste too. $ L
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, especially when they offer some version of a refreshing espresso tonic. So good! Battlefield Road location is drive-thru only. $ B L
217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8659911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417868-4157; 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. $ B L d
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, and their second location in Springfield serves all the same pup-inspired menu items. Try the Black Lab, which includes toffee nut and chocolate, or the Goldendoodle, a combination of caramel and brown sugar. The shop serves full lunch and breakfast menus too. $ B L
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 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. $ B L
CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE
1900 West Sunset Street., Springfield, 417-881-7625, 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. $ B L d
THE COFFEE ETHIC
124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-8666645, thecoffeeethic.com
Try the single-origin coffee or any of the creative and delicious seasonal drinks. The cappuccino is fantastic. The food game here is strong too, with loaded oatmeal, freshly baked muffins and more. We love the bottled lattes too. $ d
1945 S. Glenstone Avenue, Springfield, 417-883-5114, dancingmulecoffee.com
The mochas are great here—chocolatey but not too sweet. Dancing Mule also does a really good cappuccino that’s made just right. We also love the cheese and sausage scones or any of the other baked goods. If you’re on the run, swing through the drive-thru. $ B
ECHELON COFFEE
2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-3742739, 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. $ B L d
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. $ B L d
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. $ B L d
MUDHOUSE COFFEE
323 South Ave., Springfield, 417-832-1720, 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 slices are rich and delicious. $ B L
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.
$ B L
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. $ B L
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. Their take on a London Fog, featuring pH lavender syrup, is delicious too. You can also sign up for handson workshops. $ B L d
208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-422-0912
The sandwiches on the menu here are excellent, with options like The Mighty Burg (smash patties, garlic-bacon mayo, white American cheese), The Hamela Anderson (ham, Swiss, candied jalapeños), several vegetarian options and more. Bonus: This spot has a walk-up window. $ L d
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. $ L
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. $ B L
1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield
The Fighter Pilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, banana peppers, lettuce and sub sauce. Be sure to try the sandwich specials; they are always delish. Don’t forget: The Sub Shop is cash only. $ L d
Hours: Sun.–Thurs: 11:00am–9:30pm Fri.–Sat: 11:00am–10:00pm
Habanero’s Mexican Restaurant + Cantina has become a local favorite, expanding to multiple locations across the Ozarks. Experience vibrant flavors, festive ambiance and authentic Mexican cuisine!
Carthage, Springfield, Republic, Coming Soon to Joplin habanerosmexicancantina.com
Hours: Sun: 11:00am–5:00pm Mon–Fri: 11:00am–8:30pm Sat: 11:00am–9:30pm
Discover this Dessert Trio and other delights at Leong’s Asian Diner, Springfield’s culinary gem. Enjoy authentic flavors, friendly service and a legacy of delicious Asian cuisine.
1540 W. Republic Rd., Springfield 417-887-7500 | leongsasiandiner.com
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). There are root beer floats and Italian ice pops too. $ d
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. Head to the walk-up window for fun flavors include options like espresso ice cream with chocolate crumble, blood orange sorbet, buttermilk ice cream with short bread and more. $ d
1231 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-3680279; 1580 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-5983474; wannahurts.com
onuts. Outside-the-box toppings cover these super-delicious doughnuts, available 24 hours a day. A customer favorite is the maple-bacon bar. $
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. If you want something savory, try the pork-filled steamed buns. $
1109 E. Battlefield Road, Ste. A, Springfield, parlordoughnuts.com
onuts. 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. You can get keto-friendly donuts, vegan and gluten-free donuts, espresso, and savory breakfast items.
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621 South Pickwick Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com
Pie and cookies. Prairie Pie makes stellar all-buttercrust pies in flavors that range from classic to inventive. The caramel apple pie is an elevated take on a classic and is quite popular. Any of owner Eleanor Taylor’s pies made with rhubarb are superb. $–$$
1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7204094, facebook.com/ societea.
Boba tea. Bubble tea is the name of the game at this authentic spot where the matcha milk tea and the matcha roll cake are both must-try offerings. We love that you can customize the sweetness level of your drinks and top them with options like big pieces of coffee jelly, or creamy cheese foam. We love the strawberry milk tea with fresh berries$
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
onuts. We love the glazed blueberry and the oh-sofresh chocolate cake donuts. The cinnamon twist is a fave $ d
431 S. Jefferson Ave., Suite 172, Springfield, 417-737-9144, Churros. The Spanishstyle churros here are just as pretty as they are delish, with fun toppings like cinnamon-sugar, dulce de leche glaze, chocolate and almonds, rainbow sprinkles and more. You can also order coffee and espresso drinks, plus a few savory food items like breakfast burritos, burgers served on churro buns (omg!) and avocado toast. $
1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291 Burgers. Billy Bob’s is a greasy-spoon institution that has long served delicious sweets and tasty American food on the strip in Branson. Are you in the mood for some baked desserts too? 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. $ L
937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-2277377, caspersdiner.com Chili. This local favorite has a location on Glenstone Avenue that’s filled with bright colors and a kitschy vibe. The spot serves overflowing bowls of super-meaty chili and a few other yummy, indulgent diner options (like burgers and hot dogs, which can also both be topped with Casper’s famous chili). Don’t forget to order some chili cheese fries while you’re there. Another yummy favorite: ham and beans with cornbread when you can get it on special. It’s a nice break from chili but just as comforting. $ B L
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. $ L
2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill.com
Come to this yummy little spot on the Branson strip to indulge in some tasty Indian fare. We loved the karahi lamb (tender lamb, bell peppers and onion in a spicy sauce) and the mushroom aloo matar (mushrooms, potatoes and peas swimming in a creamy sauce). $$ L
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. Be sure to pop in for lunch on the weekends, when they offer a stacked buffet. $$ L
3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050
Find all your favorite classic Indian dishes here (the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are
both excellent) along with some others you might not have seen around town before. For example, the gol gappay is a crispy little hollow fried ball filled with chickpeas, potato, onion and spices. We love the ras malai dessert. $$ L
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. $$ L d
311 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, 417-3514400, zaykaspringfield. com
There’s a lot to love about this downtown Springfield Indian restaurant. The vegetable korma, chicken tikka masala and malai kofta are just a few of our favorite dishes. If you’re new to Indian food, try the pre-set combo meals that feature a lot of different flavors. For dessert, you can’t beat a bowl of warm gulab jamun sweet pastry balls. The lunch buffet is also killer when it’s open. $–$$ L d
3240 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-567-3463,avanzareitaliandining.com
Pasta is always a hit at Avanzare, a longtime
Springfield favorite. Veal dishes are top-notch at this Italian eatery, but you’ll have to pick the right night, as they’re only served once or twice a week. Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak and the pasta with seafood in a spicy tomato sauce. $$$ L d
BAMBINO’S
1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8814442; bambinoscafe.com
This little Italian eatery serves hearty helpings of tasty Italian fare that won’t break the bank, available at two 417-land locations. The Poppa is a popular pasta dish: It comes with penne pasta, Italian sausage, mushrooms and a spicy tomato-cream sauce. Another fave: the portobello mushroom ravioli with a to-die-for sauce. The side salads here are so fresh, with excellent homemade dressings. The Delmar location is great for a meal alfresco. $ L d
BRUNO’S
416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007
The bucatini with panchetta, chili oil and basil is a must-try pasta dish. Get it with the arugula salad with pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. Also on the menu is pizza, wagyu steak and lots of excellent entree options. The ever-changing specials always sound extra-tasty, like the recent offering of shellfish arancini. $$$
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. $$$ d
NICOLA’S RISTORANTE
3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-886-3700, nicolasspringfield.com
This restaurant serves a delicious sea bass. Try the lumache: fresh snails sauteed in garlic butter and baked with Parmesan cheese. Gluten-free pasta and pizza are available. The chicken parmigiano is a highlight definitely worth ordering. The Nicola’s pizza here is also super tasty, and the dessert menu is impressive. Enjoy the spacious outdoor patio when the weather permits.
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NONNA’S
306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-8311222, nonnascafe.net. The seafood lasagna is a musttry dish, and the spicy arrabbiata lasagna is crazy-good. And then there’s that drool-worthy deepfried lasagna. Basically, if the dish has “lasagna” in its name, you know it’ll be good at Nonna’s. The Tuscan pappardelle ragu is excellent, and the pesto linguine is a delight. For dessert, we particularly love the delectable chocolate torte and the rich and delicious tiramisu. Plus, the homemade cheesecakes are always top-notch. Nonna’s also does a Sunday brunch. $$ L
PICCOLO
107 West Aldersgate Drive, Suites 1 and 2, Nixa, 417-374-7291, eatpiccolo. com
When you’re craving indulgent Italian fare, Piccolo
After teasing an upcoming new menu item last month, Mundos Latin Kitchen & Bar released some brand new midday eats. You can head there between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to check it out for yourself. One of the new offerings is the Latin Benedict, which has a delicious base of a griddled arepa. Housemade chorizo, poached eggs and creamy queso sauce all team up to overwhelm your taste buds (in the best way), while the queso fresco and chipotle aioli further round it all out. If you were the least bit hungry before you read that, we bet you’re officially starving now.—Tessa Cooper
delivers with a range of piled-high pastas, pizzas, steak and chicken entrees. Start things off with the Italian Nachos (fried wonton chips, homemade Alfredo sauce and toppings), or the Balboa balls, juicy meatballs stuffed with mozzarella and finished with goat cheese and marinara. Do yourself a favor and leave room for dessert because you won’t want to miss the incredible cannolis. $–$$ L d
1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com
The menu here is packed with handmade pastas. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them making the fresh pasta—you can see it from the dining room. The menu also boasts everything from a fried artichokes appetizer to a Tuscan T-bone steak entree. Plus there are burgers, pizzas and sandwiches too. $–$$ L d
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
try some of the delectable entrees as well. Don’t miss the bibimbap or the fresh mango-jalapeño ahi tuna entree. If you love a spicy bite, make sure you try the seafood soup. Pair it with a little bit of nigiri or one of the spot’s tasty maki rolls. $$– $$$ L
HINODE JAPANESE
4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777
well as small plates and tapas. You have to try the delicious tuna cigars or the hot rock dish that uses wagyu beef. For dessert, the matcha crème brûlée is our favorite. Be sure to order from the excellent sake menu. Order a sushi roll alongside some sake. $$–$$$ L d
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. $$ L
HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR
3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com
The Oh My God roll and the Sex and the City roll are trademarks here. If simple nigiri is your style, you’ll love the tuna sampler. Be sure to venture off the sushi menu and
Come to see the show at the hibachi grills. Hinode is known for wonderful hibachi meals with perfectly cooked proteins and all the extras: rice, stir fry noodles, veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. And don’t forget to try something from the sushi menu. $$ L
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. $$–$$$ L
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, spin-
ach, wood ear mushrooms, bean sprouts, seaweed and sprinkled with lime is a highlight. Don’t miss the hand rolls or the steamed buns filled with shredded pork, spring onions and teriyaki sauce. $ L
2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8817171, nakato.com
Performance-style hibachi dining is what Nakato is known for. And they are super-good at it! A little entertainment plus a great meal. All of the sushi is top-notch here as well. Don’t miss the Jenny Roll, a favorite. For an appetizer, try the bacon-wrapped scallops. $$ L
NIJI
3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417-851-1707
In addition to a large variety of sushi rolls (we love the Cherry Blossom Roll and the Spicy Yummy Roll), this menu also boasts rainbow-bright cocktails and seven types of ramen soups. Come with friends so you can share and sample lots of rolls. For dessert, try the fluffy Japanese cheesecake. $$ L
2215 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield
The ramen and udon soups are some of the tastiest items on the menu here, and they come with lots of fun toppings. We like to order it with spicy broth and either chasu pork or chicken katsu for the protein. There are also sushi rolls, bento boxes, takoyaki and fun desserts like the not-too-sweet mitrurashi dango. $$ L
SAKURA
3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000
There’s a solid sushi menu (the Sam’s Roll never
disappoints if you like a roll with a lot going on), and you can order a sushi donburi box to really get some bang for your buck if you prefer to keep your sushi meals simple and refreshing. The bento boxes are great too, packed with your choice of entree, California roll, rice, salad, miso soup, fruit, spring rolls, veggie tempura and ice cream. We recommend getting teriyaki salmon in your bento box; it’s always delish. $$ L
SUSHI
1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8901016, facebook.com/ springfieldsushivillage
This cozy sushi spot has a warm date-night atmosphere with cherry blossoms and plants around every corner. All the sushi is fresh and flavorful, but some custom creations pack fun ingredient combos. $$ L
BAWI KOREAN BBQ
4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8862777, bawikbbq.com
Bawi Korean BBQ brings an authentic Korean dining experience to Springfield, where you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 for an all-you-caneat meal. You cook the meat yourself on tabletop grills. Be sure to try their to-go lunch options too, including bowls filled with rice, noodles, veggies and the protein and sauce of your choice. Keep an eye out for Korean-style fried chicken, which is sometimes offered on special. $$
GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT
1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093
This spot serves up delicious and authentic Korean food. The beef bulgogi and dolsot bibimbap are
best sellers here. We also love the fried dumplings and kimbop. Try the tasty kimchi fried rice or spicy octopus stir fry. If you’re in the mood for something really comforting on a cold day, opt for the kimchi chigae. You also get a variety of Korean side dishes alongside your meal, which adds a lot of fun and flavor to the meal. $ L
4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077
This spot serves createyour-own bibimbap dishes, and you can choose between chicken, beef bulgogi, tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the japchae, made with slippery and sweet stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies—it’s fun to eat and so satisfying. Don’t miss the zaru soba if you’re in the mood for something lighter. You can also find ramen, stir fried noodles, beef bulgogi dishes, wonderful steamed dumplings (with the best sauce!) and much more. $ L d
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 or dessert, order a side of dumplings or a steambed bun, and more. $ L
MEDITERRANEAN CAFE
1111 E. Republic Road, Ste. 164, Springfield, 417306-9749, cravemediterraneancafe.com
There’s so much good stuff on the menu here; shareable dips like hummus and
baba ganoush, shawarma, kabob, gyros, falafel and more. Don’t miss the flaming cheese appetizer or the manakeesh flat bread with toppings like sumac chicken. $$–$$$ L
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. $ L
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. $–$$ L
VASKEN’S DELI
3200 Gretna Road, Suite D, Branson, 417-3349182, vaskensdeli.com
The gyros are fantastic here. Make sure you get them with traditional gyro meat, and don’t skip the tzatziki sauce! Everything’s better with tzatziki sauce, right? We are nuts for the beef shawarma too, though. It makes for a su-
per delicious and satisfying meal and tastes amazing with tahini. $ L
3637 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-2213490, cabosbonitos.com
Come to this east Springfield spot for all your Mexican favorites plus some fun and unique dishes like the fried avocado appetizer. It has beer-battered avocado halves filled with your choice of meat and topped with sour cream and chipotle ranch sauce. $$
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 and the bluffs across the water. The menu is varies, and we especially love the salsas. $$ L
4610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7715031; 300 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417885-9097
The menu is huge at Casa Bella, which has two Springfield locations. Try the tasty ceviche, any of the street tacos, or the spicy camarones a la diabla. The Battlefield restaurant location is huge too, so there’s plenty of room to bring your whole crew for some Mexican eats. $$ L
2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-881-8252
Indulge in authentic Mexican food at incredibly
reasonable prices. We love the birria taco, which is filled with succulent shredded beef. Don’t miss the Salvadorian pupusas 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? $ L
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. $$ L
IGUANA ROJA
107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO-13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net
There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery located on the square in Ozark. Don’t miss the one made with jalapeños; it has a kick that’s so much fun to drink. The chips are excellent here, with a yummy seasoning sprinkled on top of every one. $–$$ L
LA PALOMA
3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7194484, dienlapaloma.com; 1425 W. Battlefield St., Springfield, 417-8892985, thelapaloma.com
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.
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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.
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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.
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OXO BAR & GRILL
2550 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3069808, oxospringfield.com
Try modern takes on Mexican street food, like pork belly street tacos, chorizo burritos, chilaquiles, aquachile, elote and more. Come on Saturday for Latin Night for Latin dancing. Brunch available on Sundays with items like morning tostadas. $$ B L d
PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8901212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com
Diners love the pollo abovado, an 8-ounce chicken breast that’s grilled and topped with
homemade chorizo, white queso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos: three soft corn tortillas filled with steak, cilantro and onions and served with rice, beans and avocado. $–$$ L
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. $–$$ L
1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf. com
Let the little ruby-red building near Pickwick Avenue and Cherry Street be your guiding beacon to flavor-packed tacos, nachos and rice bowls. This tiny cafe serves major flavors in its taco menu. We’re fans of the Globetrotter pork belly taco, and we always have to taste test the Ringer, the shop’s rotating special taco. We also love the tequila- and mezcal-based cocktails that pair so well with all those tasty tacos with their big flavors. $ L d
308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318007, tingatacossgf.com
This downtown taco shop is open late slinging shells of its wildly creative combinations. We are partial
4:30–11 p.m.
to the Fu Yu made with super-flavorful marinated tofu or the Fruity Piggles with juicy pork and fig jam for a salty-sweet combination. $ L
TORTILLERIA PERCHES
1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-864-8195
This tiny little authentic Mexican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a Mexican soda, a traditional Mexican soup or a tamale when you visit. Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays and Tamale Thursdays, where the dishes are only a dollar. $ B L
CHERI’S
located at Metropolitan Grill, 2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com Wood-fired. It’s all about perfect pizza paired with champagne at this spot. Cooked in a wood-fired oven, this pizza is something like a mix between New York–style and Neapolitanstyle. Try the Hotter Than Jacquez pizza with smoke mozzarella, bacon, pepperoni and fresh jalapeños. So, so good! There are occasional bingo night events here. $$
GARBO’S PIZZERIA
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. $–$$ L
THE BIG SLICE
1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7201928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com
New York–style. You can get big New York–style brick oven pizza by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer, but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pizza. We love the creamy spinach pizza too, when we’re in the mood for a white pie. The gigantic pepperonis are a wonderful topping too. They are the same ones used in the pepperoni pinwheels. $–$$ L
and micro-distillery is the first outpost of Springfield Brewing Company, and its menu specializes in wood-fired pizza cooked in a brick oven. The Bourbon BBQ pizza is topped with fire-roasted chicken, smoked mozarella, homemade bourbon barbecue sauce and both pickled onions and pickled jalapeños made in-house. Head there on a nice day to take advantage of all the backyard games. $$ L d
PAPPO’S
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-883-9010, garbospizzeria.com
St. Louis–style. If you love a loaded St. Louis–style pizza, try the toppings-packed Grandiose. Or try the Bavarian pizza for something a little different; it is topped with Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. Customers are big fans of the Garbo’s house salad and its tasty homemade dressing. It’s honestly so hard to resist. $–$$ L d
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. $$ d
ONE 2 FIVE TAPROOM
1846 Highway 125, Rogersville, facebook.com/ One2FiveTaproom Wood-fired. This taproom
pieces. It’s a classic that’s not to be missed and is a favorite of lifelong locals. Our favorite thing there: any pizza that includes bacon. $ L
ROCCO’S PIZZA & SUBS
Multiple 417-land locations; roccospizzaandsubs. com
ANDY B’S TIKI BAR
433 Promenade Way, Branson, 417-213-8631, bransontikibar.com
221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8661111; 900 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417306-9091; pappospizzeria.com
Stonebaked. Try the spicy chicken Cholula pie topped with a mixture of red sauce and olive oil, grilled chicken marinated in Cholula sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, red onions, cilantro. Also, be sure you try the meatballs. We really like the salads here as well. $–$$ L
THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB
2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-368-0277
Hand-tossed. With a menu full of pizza, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pub fare and a killer beer selection, there’s something to please everyone. We love to build our own pizza with Alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. Be sure to order the Brussels sprouts appetizer; they are flash fried and crispy, served with crispy potatoes, lardons, goat cheese and a balsamic reduction drizzle. Try the carrot cake for dessert. $$ L
PIZZA HOUSE
312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-881-4073
Thin-crust. This restaurant has been a tradition in Springfield for more than 50 years, and the pizza they serve is super-thin and cut into super-tiny
New York–style. This Italian eatery specializes in New York–style pizza that has anybody who’s been to the east coast swooning. It’s legit. Also on the menu are hot subs, like meatball or eggplant Parmesan, plus salads, calzones and a handful of pasta entrees.
$–$$ L
SCHULTZ PIZZA + PUB
2210 W. Chesterfield St., Ste. 8683, Springfield, 417-885-0060, schultzpub.com
Neopolitan. The pizzas here are made using cold-fermented dough, a sauce of San Marzano tomatoes and a special pizza oven. Try the Blanco Formaggio white pizza made with garlic oil and five cheeses. Also on the menu: smash burgers, hot sandwiches, chicken wings and more. Try the fried goat cheese balls appetizer too. $$ L
SLAP BOX PIZZA & WINGS
2932 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-886-3333
Brick oven. There are a bunch of creative pizzas on the menu here, with sourdough crust that’s the perfect ratio of chewy to crunchy. We like the Arma Segreta, topped with caramelized and charred pepperoni, mushrooms, ricotta, basil and more. Wings are tasty here too; try the ones with lemon-pepper dry rub. There a few salads here too, for the super-fresh side we always crave with pizza. Gluten-free crust is available. $$ L d
Big news for lovers of island-style bevs and casual hangout spots: Andy B’s Tiki Bar has opened on Branson Landing, and it’s an extension of Springfield’s Andy B’s Bowl Social. Andy B’s Tiki Bar has a view of Lake Taneycomo, where guests can order tiki drinks, beer and other drinks. We’re eying the “Pin Killer,” the bar’s take on a painkiller. $
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. $$ L
313-B S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield; 417-5229009; bestofluckbeerhall. com
This downtown beer hall combines backyard charm with killer food and more beers than you can count. If suds aren’t your thing, try a seasonal cocktail or one of the draft alcoholic punches. The extensive food menu includes flavor spins on cookout favorites, like juicy cheddarwurst brats, salty shoestring fries with dipping sauces, and kimchi-spiked fried chicken sandwiches. The beer hall also has a faux turf lawn available for rent for games of bocce, bags and more. $$ B L d
1521 E. Broadway St., Joplin, 417-553-0665
Damien Tiregol of Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill now has another Joplin eatery. Blackstone Gastropub features hand-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, and smash-burger grilled tacos with jalapeño-ranch slaw.
$ $ L
At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417243-3433
Just across the street from Branson Landing at the Hilton Branson Convention Center is Clear Lounge, a great place to grab a cocktail with friends. This spot is home to tasty food, good music and drinks. d
GEORGIA MAC’S
1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3195770, georgiamacs.com
The food is hearty and comforting with a southern flare at this south Springfield eatery. You can find loaded burgers (like the one topped with jalapeño bottle caps), fried catfish, country fried steak, loaded fries with tons of toppings, and lots more. The chicken fingers are some of the best we’ve ever had, and the Georgia Hot Chicken sandwich packs a big flavor with mild heat. $ $ L
& 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. It was a fun new way to experience Worman House. $–$$ L
137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-4255162, thegoldengirl.com
This rum bar on the southwest corner of Park Central Square (with a great people-watching patio space) serves up handcrafted cocktails and a made-fromscratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. Try the Thai sticky wings for an unusual twist on a bar staple. Be sure to try the tacos, ramen and artisan pizzas. The pizza specials always come topped with creative ingredients for a seriously delicious and shareable pie. As for drinks, everything on the menu is reliable well-done. Our favorite: Mr Guava Lava, which is both fruity and spicy. $ L d
GOOD SPIRITS & CO.
1424 E. Cherry St., Suite A, Springfield, goodspiritsandco.com
The owners of Good Spirits & Co. are behind some great local food and drink concepts (like The Golden Girl Rum Club, Sweet Boy’s Neighborhood Bar, Cherry Picker Package & Fare and Best of Luck Beer Hall), and their chic headquarters on Cherry Street is home to fun foodand-drink events. Check their website fro things like monthly Supper Club dinners, seasonal cocktail events and more. $$–$$$
Recently, Ozark welcomed its newest restaurant. Raku Hibachi Sushi & Ramen opened at 1487 W. South Street and began doling out sushi rolls with flavorful toppings, ramen made with 12-hour slow-simmer broth and hibachi (prepared in the back). I got to attend the soft opening, and I was impressed from the moment I walked in the front door. You can tell owners Kukuh Bayu Han Prakoso, Billy Yuzar and Raven Al Rasya put their all into creating an atmosphere and dishes that transport you to Japan. The entire space is a vibe with touches like colorful Anime wallpaper, paper lanterns and creative yet surprisingly comfortable seating made from repurposed materials like milk crates. I tried the mango tango roll, and it’s the perfect option for when you’re craving something fresh, yet flavorful. The desserts are the really fun part, in my opinion. I got to try my first Japanese sando, and I honestly haven’t stopped thinking about it since. They also carry that viral Propitious Mango ice cream, which was just as delicious and creamy as I hoped it would be. Before you leave, be sure to check out the small section of Japanese candy and snacks. They even have ongiri that they make fresh daily with toppings like soft-boiled egg and chicken katsu with hot honey.—Tessa Cooper
J.O.B. PUBLIC HOUSE
319 E. Walnut St., Springfield, job417.com
This spot is known for its excellent bourbon selection and elevated bar food. As far as eats go, longtime customer favorites include the indulgent Full Ride burger, the vegetarian-friendly Codi Brah falafel sandwich, and the fun and shareable pepperoni pizza balls. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the Office Crush, made with Rittenhouse Rye, house-made peach and black tea syrup, lemon juice and peach puree. $$ L
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. $ L d
1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, 417-3513029, 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. $
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. $$ B L d
310 South Ave., Springfield, 417-7194224, sweetboysbar.com
Come for pinball, a laidback atmosphere and a small but very well done cocktail list. For something more like dessert, try the HellBoy, a frozen Irish coffee with a Fat Boy’s ice cream sandwich. $
& LOUNGE
2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7731985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-773-1985, vcellars.com
Small plates, snacks and tapas make up the menu at this comfortable spot. $
3138 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-8083
The cheeseburgers are a specialty at this restaurant, and they are enormous. Don’t miss the ham and cheese sandwiches, another customer favorite. $ L
CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL
815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com
This Joplin hot-spot serves some fantastic seafood, and we’ve enjoyed everything we’ve tried there. The Chilean sea bass is a specialty. Try some of the small plates, like portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. $$–$$$ L
Call for directions to the ranch in Rockbridge; 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo. com
This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that spe-
cializes in all things trout. The super-fresh fish dishes are made with trout that are caught on the property. We love the trio appetizer, which comes with trout salad, smoked trout and a trout dip that is so craveable! For an entree, try the blackened trout dish. There’s also an on-site bar, The Grist Mill located in a historic former riverside mill. $ B L
260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8511768; rooftopvantage.com
This rooftop bar at Hotel Vandivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and even offers dining igloos in the winter so you can enjoy the scene all year long. The cocktails are refreshingly creative and classically well-done, and the menu of shareables and snacks bring the concept of bar food up several notches with items like the pork rillette tartine. Make sure you try something from the super-fresh, beautifully prepared raw bar. The pickled shrimp and scallop ceviche are two of our faves. $$ d
CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR
1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-823-8383
The former Touch Restaurant & Oyster Bar retains some standby dishes like bacon-wrapped dates and chicken Bijan in its new iteration as Char Steakhouse & Oyster Bar (owned by the same people), but offerings of Waygu steaks, lamb shank and fish dishes up the ante. Indulgent lobster potato puree and crispy flash-fried Brussels sprouts round out the side dishes, and raw oysters, ceviche and bone marrow pique the appetite
as starters. Be sure to sample Char’s cocktails, or something off the extensive wine list. $$$ d
FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8624444, flamesteakhouse. com
The restaurant specializes in dry-aged steaks that are truly delicious. Don’t miss the lobster macaroni and cheese (we’re serious; you have to try this stuff). The desserts are always divine, and we can’t get enough of the appetizer menu. Head to Red Room downstairs for killer happy hour food and drink specials. (Don’t miss the burgers at happy hour! They are oh-so delicious and such a bargain.)
$$$
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 off-menu smothered rib-eye for a little decadence. Desserts are always a treat here as well. $$–$$$ L
KOBE CLUB
2058 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8696947, facebook.com/ KobeClubSteakhouse
The menu here features wagyu and Japanese A5 steaks, along with a variety of seafood dishes inspired by New Orleans and South Texas. The Gulf Flounder Opelousas features black-
ened flounder and Creole cream sauce with shrimp, crab and oysters. $$$ L
The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433, level2steakhouse.com
This Branson restaurant specializes in steaks, but its gooey butter cake dessert is gaining a following. Try the Kansas City strip steak and the egg noodles with cheese. If you like to start your meal with greens, the Caesar salad is a must-try; it comes topped with delicious fried anchovies. Also, don’t miss the fresh Hawaiian ahi tuna served on a Himalayan salt block: delightful! Don’t sleep on the prime rib dip sandwich, either. $$$ B
RED OAK STEAKHOUSE
Downstream Casino Resort, 69300 E. Nee Road, Quapaw, Oklahoma, 1-888-396-7876, 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. $$
WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE
1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com
Come to Joplin’s Wilder’s Steakhouse to find steaks in all sizes and varieties, all of which are certified black Angus beef and free of hormones and antibiotics. The restaurant’s menu also has a variety of other items like seafood and chicken. Don’t miss the vintage, authentic Route 66 neon signs on top of the building. $$$
BETH’S
1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8665533, bethsbakeshoppe. com
Try a chicken salad sandwich—served on cinnamon raisin bread. And we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette, and the gigantic couscous salad loaded with fresh veggies and Feta. $ L
211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8867000, robinsvintagesuitcase.com
The daily specials and desserts are the star of this tearoom and pastry shop on Commercial Street. There is always a quiche and soup of the day, plus desserts. $ L
107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331
The homemade desserts are to die for. Be sure to order them quickly before they run out—like you might want to order them before you order entrees! Don’t miss the strawberry soup. $ L THAI EVERYDAY
220 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7700147, myeverydaythai. com
This spot serves consistently delicious Thai dish-
es. Some of our favorites are the tom kha gai soup, the comforting yellow curry with chicken and the mango sticky rice dessert.
$–$$ L
RAMA THAI CAFÉ
1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-3204
This restaurant, located inside a charming old house on Historic Walnut Street, features a menu full of delicious Thai tastes in a cozy atmosphere with a shady patio out back. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig into the entrees with an order of delicious curry noodles.
$–$$ L d
TAI KITCHEN
114 E. Main St., Branson, 417-544-0581, taikitchenbranson.com
This family-owned spot serves fresh flavors in dishes like the Tai Beef Salad, Thai fish cake appetizer, and several types of Thai soups. Don’t miss the great curries they have here too!
$–$$ L
THAI THAI CUISINE
1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com
Thai Thai Cuisine offers really great Thai food and a sweet staff. The panang curry is delicious, and it’s served on a little bed of fresh spinach. $–$$ L
THAI EXPRESS
2113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8650101, 417thaiexpress.com
When you visit this friendly spot, don’t miss the Magic Noodle, mango curry chicken and volcano shrimp dishes. They are all tasty. The green curry is delicious. $ L
THAI GARDEN
3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8895280, thaigardenspringfield.com
There are so many great Thai options here, like
nam tok beef, shareable bowls of noodle soup, stir fry and curry options and lots more. Get the fried bananas or Thai custard for dessert. Fun little extra: They bottle their Thai iced tea and Thai iced coffee. $ L
THAI PALACE
3250 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7715640, thaifoodpalace.com
The menu here is a mix of Thai food along with some Chinese and Japanese dishes. Try the green curry, fresh spring rolls, or tom kha khai soup. And you have to pair it with a sweet Thai iced tea. $–$$ L
THAI SQUARE
307 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-7715300, facebook.com/ Thaisquare307
From the folks who owner Rama Thai (and located just around the corner from it), Thai Square offers an excellent menu of Thai food favorites. Our favorite dish is the salmon choo chee, but the spicy papaya salad and the traditional pad Thai are both tied for a close second. $$ L
THAILAND STATION
1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3501001, thailandstation.net
Find all your favorites (a variety of curries, stir fried noodle dishes and soups) plus some surprises like crispy duck and stir-fried pork belly. We’re super-excited about the salad options, like the som tum (papaya salad) and the laab (ground chicken salad). When it’s in season, order the mango sticky rice dessert. $ L
BAMBU
1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-9881
The pho is a specialty here. You can add spice, herbs,
jalapeños and sprouts to customize it. (Our favorite: Use all of the herbs, a couple of jalapeños and a squirt of sriracha.) Don’t miss the refreshing bun bowls too! The one made with lemongrass beef is a flavor bomb. The pineapple chicken stir fry entree is another customer favorite. $ L d
2926 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3513915, facebook.com/ hongyenrestaurant. Come to Hong Yen when you’re in search of excellent beef pho. The chicken pho is pretty good too! Really, anything with noodles is worth a try, and the menu has several clear noodle soups and egg noodle soups in addition to the pho selection. We adore the Vietnamese bun bowl made with barbecue pork and egg roll. $ L d
3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-883-9999, phokimspringfield.com
Here you can fill up on Vietnamese staples like pho, spring rolls, a variety of bahn mi sandwiches and more. The chicken fried rice is extra crispy, and the chicken pho is just as tasty as the classic beef variety here. We love the fresh spring rolls too. If you aren’t afraid of heat, try the spicy beef noodle soup. $ L
1427 E. Cherry St., Springfeild, 417-368-0949, facebook.com/skullys417
This spot specializes in non-traditional takes on Vietnamese banh mi sandwishes. Try the one made with oyster mushrooms, or the marinated lemongrass beef option. Also on the menu: ramen, chicken wings, wok bowls, miso-butter noodles for the kiddos, lots of vegetarian-friendly dishes and more. $$ L
It’s the core belief that guides every aspect of our IT service. From our on-site client onboarding visits to our partnerships with local non-profits like The Warrior‘s Journey, our mission has always been to invest in our community and uplift our fellow local businesses. We care about people, over technology. That’s why we’re privately-owned, and why we’ll continue to call 417 Land our home. Discover more benefits of partnering with local IT:
Dillard’s rolled out the red carpet Friday, July 25, from 5:30 to 9 p.m., inviting the community to an exclusive VIP Premiere Night inside its brand new location at the Battlefield Mall.
Date: July 25
Location: Battlefield Mall
Date: June 2 Benefiting: Cancer reseach
Location: Millwood Golf and Racquet Club
Sponsors: 417 Magazine , CORA Med, Next Level Solutions
United Way Ozarks Region Day of Caring is the largest one-day volunteer event in Southwest Missouri. Local businesses and organizations coordinate teams of employees to spend the day completing service projects at area nonprofit agencies.
Date: June 26, 2025
Benefiting Organization: United Way Ozarks Region and area nonprofits
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4 By 4 Brewing Company 2811 E. Galloway St., Suite A Springfield, MO
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Jennifer Murvin is an Associate Professor at Missouri State University and author of the newly released Real California Living.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
“I DON’T THINK I WOULD EVEN BE WRITING IF IT WEREN’T FOR MY TEACHING LIFE. I SEE THEM AS VERY ESSENTIALLY INTEGRATED.”
QWhat inspired Real California Living?
This collection has been in the making for a really long time. It’s a collection of stories that is inspired by my growing up in Southern California and also living here in Missouri and just thinking about negotiating a place. A lot of the stories are about motherhood and coming of age.
What drew you to short fiction?
I love how messy short stories are. They’re like a little gut punch, and then the author runs away. There’s something really complicated and challenging about the short form. They sort of haunt you and follow you around. I’ve always loved teaching short stories in my classes, and it’s really conducive to teach short stories in a class because you can read the story together, you can talk about it.
How has working with emerging writers shaped your own voice?
It has absolutely shaped my voice entirely. There’s something really powerful about spending a lot of hours of my day, and then many hours in my head, engaging with student work, with books that I love and get to share with them and talk about with them. And they teach me. It’s been absolutely formative. I don’t think I would even be writing if it weren’t for my teaching life. I see them as very essentially integrated.
Visit 417mag.com to read our extended interview with Jennifer Murvin.
From the moment you’re diagnosed with cancer, our job is to mobilize every available resource to help you. Our skilled oncology team is your biggest ally.
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Branson Radiation Oncology 417-348-8032 Springfield Radiation Oncology 417-269-6115