417 Magazine | BBQ | August 2022 by 417 Magazine

417 MAGAZINE

COASTAL VIBES

LAZY RIVERS

Four super-easy

AUGUST 2022 SWEET SUMMER SIP • BEST BARBECUE • LAST CHANCE FOR SUMMER ;FUN

+ the smokiest meats +

+ a peek inside a local bbq influencer’s grill +

+ top-notch butcher shops +

AUGUST 2022 $5.95

417mag.com Volume 24 Issue 8

PROMOTION

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[ BUSINESS ] LOGAN AGUIRRE Publisher logan@417mag.com

[ EDITORIAL ] KATIE POLLOCK ESTES Editorial Director editor@417mag.com JAMIE THOMAS Digital Editor jthomas@417mag.com COLIN SHEA DENNISTON Engagement & Style Editor colin@417mag.com JO JOLLIFF Research Editor jo@417mag.com LUCIE AMBERG Biz 417 Editor lucie@417mag.com EDITORIAL INTERNS Michelle Lewis, Mariah Hunter SARAH PATTON Art Director sarah@417mag.com BRANDON ALMS Senior Photographer & Designer brandon@417mag.com LEAH STIEFERMANN Photographer & Designer lstiefermann@417mag.com GRACE CHIPLEY Editorial Designer grace@417mag.com ART & STYLE INTERNS Grace Mason, Kali McCroskey CONTRIBUTORS

Joshua Beecher, Grace Chipley, Kelsey Conner,

Juliana Goodwin, Jennifer Gri s, Sarah Gugliotta, Sony Hocklander, Hook Creative, Ryan Kowalski, Thomas Leonard, Cortney Little-Ash, Kali McCroskey, Sarah Williams

MEGAN JOHNSON Vice President of Operations and Custom Publications mjohnson@417mag.com AMMIE SCOTT MOTES Vice President of Strategy and Senior Account Executive ascott@417mag.com LANDRA BUNGE Finance Director accounting@417mag.com MICHELLE MARTENS Finance Assistant mmartens@417mag.com BERNADETTE PRY Administrative Assistant bernadette@417mag.com JAMI WIGHTMAN Senior Account Executive jami@417mag.com JANELLE HAIK Account Executive janelle@417mag.com ELISABETH ANDERSON Account Services Director elisabeth@417mag.com KATHY GRIEVE Account Coordinator kathy@417mag.com NICKI HODGES Account Coordinator nicki@417mag.com KATIE BATLINER Advertising Designer kbatliner@417mag.com MOLLY DAVIS Advertising Designer molly@417mag.com RIN COLWELL Advertising Design Assistant advertising@417mag.com

[ AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT ]

[ FOUNDERS ]

JENNIFER MASSEY-BROWN Event Manager jmasseybrown@417mag.com

GARY WHITAKER Founder gary@417mag.com

HANNAH BROWN Brand Designer hbrown@417mag.com

JOAN WHITAKER Founder joan@417mag.com

MARIYA SERYKH Marketing Coordinator mariya@417mag.com AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT INTERN Ali Runge

417 Magazine | 417mag.com S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO Fa 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

AUGUST 2022

[

FEATURES

]

on the cover

Bubba’s signature sandwich is the Cowboy which features brisket, onion pedals and pink lightning sauce, a house made sweet sauce with horseradish and garlic.

The meaty feast pictured on this edition’s cover is from City Butcher & Barbecue, a spot that serves up so much smoky goodness.

THE BBQ ISSUE

SUBSCR BE NOW The arrival of fall comes with a full calendar. Escape from the busyness of the season with our October issue featuring Cabin Hideaways. See the list of cabins before anyone by subscribing now. To get it delivered to your mailbo , head online to 417mag.com/subscribe.

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Photo by Leah Stiefermann, Cover photo by Brandon Alms

417-land has a growing list of barbecue in the area, each restaurant with their own unique take and avor. We bring all of the different styles to one spot to help you navigate the world of O arks barbecue. WR TTEN BY JUL ANA OODW N

AUGUST 2022

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24 OZARKS-CENTRAL

Your kids can’t return back to school without doing these five quintessential land activities.

28 CHASING WATERFALLS

gnore the popular TLC song, and spend your weekend chasing waterfalls at Blanchard Springs.

30 PASSION FOR FASHION

This glimpse into the newly e panded and remodeled Fashion House will help you revamp your wardrobe.

32 COME OUT OF YOUR SHELL

These curated coastal fashion and decor pieces will transport you to the beach and are shore to impress.

34 STAND THE TEST OF TIME

Find out how Tina Keith renovated her s farmhouse and found sweet treasures from the past along the way.

36 SUMMER BUMMER

t’s sad to see summer in the O arks coming to an end. Make the most of the sun with these August events.

]

OUTSIDE

51 QUITE THE OAR DEAL

et your kayak ready for these rela ing land scenic river oats.

52 SPRING TO RITTER SPRINGS Soak up the last rays of summer at Ritter Springs, hiking and e ploring.

53 DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH

Heigh ho, it’s off to work we go to mine at Crater of Diamonds State Park.

TASTE

90 TAKE A PIZZA MY HEART

Discover the culinary e perience created at Carmine’s, where the pi a is delicious no matter how you slice it.

92 SUBS WITH NO SUBSTITUTE

This round up of Cuban sandwiches in town proves that the best sandwiches are not born, they are bread.

95 TACO ‘BOUT AWESOME

Love Tacos Taqueria food truck is opening a brick and mortar location for all of the land taco lovers who ust can’t get enough of their menu.

95 51

SUBSCR PT ON RATES issues, . Visit mag.com subscribe. Allow weeks for processing orders, payment and changes of address. S N LE SSUE, NEWSSTAND . back issues, plus shipping and handling, if available. No back issue orders or subscriptions outside the United States. ADDRESS CHAN ES nclude both new address and mailing label with old address. Maga ine SSN is published monthly by Whitaker Publishing, LLC, S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO . Whitaker Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Periodical postage paid in Springfield, Missouri and additional mailing o ces. POSTMASTER Send address changes to Maga ine, S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO . The maga ine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or cartoons. The Volume and ssue numbers appear on the front cover of the maga ine. Printed in the United States of America.

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Photos by Leah Stiefermann, Joshua Beecher, courtesy Shutterstock

LIFE

DEPARTMENTS

PROMOTION

extras

SPECIALADVERTISINGSECTIONS

Shop Local

Get your hands on these home and gift items from local shops.

THE VICHY GOLD

EXPERIENCE

Branson Guide

Grab the family for a Branson getaway filled with top-notch entertainment, dining and more.

Residential Pros to Know From home remodelers to Realtors, these pros have all of your residential needs covered.

The Plate Check out these tasty, one-of-akind dishes.

COMING SOON Fall Travel Guide

September 2022 For information on advertising, call Logan Aguirre at 417-883-7417

1522 E. Sunshine St., Springfield 417-881-8887 | grovespa.com 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

[

UNLIMITED

[

]

INSIDER

INFO

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On the Blog Find these stories and find out on what’s happening throughout land at 417mag.com/blog.

PLAN YOUR LABOR DAY WEEKEND Another holiday weekend is approaching f you need some help making plans check our roundup of Labor Day weekend events at 417mag.com/laborday.

LIMITLESS POTENTIAL We’re inviting you and your daughter to our first ever Limitless A Mother Daughter E perience. This half day event on October is designed to open up conversations, strengthen bonds and help inspire your daughter to be all she can be in a positive,

welcoming, high energy environment. With engaging keynote speakers, workshops and a marketplace of local resources and retail, it’s time to show your daughter ust how limitless she is et all the info and tickets at 417mag.com/limitless.

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INSTAGRAM

LOVE

WHAT A SCOOP! We caught up with the owners of Swirly’s ce Cream & Wa es to find out what makes this new cool spot unique. Read more at 417mag.com/swirlys.

]

Show us how you’re living your best life in 417-land! Tag @417mag to be featured.

1. Jennifer ri s

ginettegri s captured these two kiddos hard at work berry picking at Burton Farms.

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2. Kelsey Conner

kenanandkels took a break from Taste of Somo to visit a nearby Sculpture Walk Springfield e hibit.

3. Sarah ugliotta sarahinthe snapped a mid bike ride pic while cruising the alloway Trail over James River.

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, Sarah ugliotta, Kelsey Conner, Jennifer ri s

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417 MAGAZINE

PUBL SHER’S NOTE

The C-Street Farmers Market is a charming place to find fresh, summer produce and local goods.

Summer Harvest Publisher Logan Aguirre shares her favorite way to eat fresh and local in the summertime.

417 MAGAZINE

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peat until he tried one, he caved. After one bite, he admitted that the freshly plucked peach tasted better than what they serve at school. It’s not hard to compete with canned peaches, but I had the same experience with fresh arugula. Wait, that’s what arugula is supposed to taste like? More, please. The most unexpected joy was volunteering at the farm. My family complained the whole way there asking why we had to do this. But when we started working and saw the progress we had made on pulling out weeds around the rows of potatoes, and when my son got to feed those weeds to the hogs, all was well. Hey, those potatoes might just end up on our front porch next week! They’ll be covered in dirt and need a good washing.

Logan Aguirre Publisher | logan@417mag.com

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

his is our third summer participating in the Millsap Farms CSA Farm Share, and I can’t recommend it enough. Every two weeks a box of homegrown veggies, fruit and beautiful wildflowers surprises me on my doorstep. The first time my kids saw a little bug crawling on a leaf of lettuce, they panicked. I had to explain that this stuff got picked out of the garden hours before it arrived. That’s why we wash them! I originally signed up for it because I love the idea of feasting on locally grown foods, but I know my limits, and growing them myself isn’t going to happen. And while the idea of going to the farmer’s market on a Saturday is dreamy and quaint, it often loses out to the pull of a lake day or a stacked line up of practices, classes and games. What I didn’t anticipate was how fun it would be to try new veggies, or roast my own beets, or look up “how to cook oyster mushrooms.” My son swore he hated peaches, and we promised him he’d never actually had a real-tasting peach before. So after asking Alexa to play “Peaches” (by the Presidents of the United State of America) on re-

WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO

[ EDITOR’S NOTE ]

TRUE ’CUE I

neighbor Tim Shelburn’s house. He has the best backyard cooking set-up I’ve ever seen, with grills, smokers, pizza ovens and more where he creates some seriously delicious stuff. The neighbor bonus for me is that every so often I get to try some of it. You can read about Shelburn and how he became a social media influencer in the barbecue world on p. 82. That story about Shelburn is part of our Best Barbecue cover story, in which we share some of the most delicious and perfectly prepared meats in 417-land. And we’re not talking about saucy pork steaks here… we’re talking about the real stuff that’s smoked for dozens of hours until it becomes tender perfection. Hungry yet? I am!

Katie Pollock Estes Editorial Director | editor@417mag.com

My Favorite Page, 21 2694 S. Glenstone Ave | 417.368.3438 rugfashionstore.com

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When you think of the quintessential fair scene, does something like this come to mind? I just love this adorable picture. The fair usually makes me think of... sweating in the Ozarks heat. But this little sample of sweetness has me itching to take my kiddos to the fair this year.

Photo by Brandon Alms

’m from St. Louis, so any event that included whipping out the grill featured the following staples: pork steaks smothered in sauce, bratwurst or salsiccia depending on your mood, and (for reasons I don’t really understand) a pot of mostaccioli. Those summertime potluck dishes are peak nostalgia for me, and I still love every one of them. Especially those snappy links of salsiccia, which I haven’t actually eaten in ages. But it wasn’t until adulthood, I’m ashamed to admit, that I realized sauce-soaked pork steaks weren’t “real” barbecue. They aren’t even a real cut of meat, if we’re honest. Real barbecue, with real pit masters, offers that slow-smoked perfection that you can’t get on your Weber filled with charcoal. (That Weber is perfect for deliciously over-charring a hot dog, but that’s a whole other thing…) Personally, I’m intimidated by real barbecue and impressed by people who can pull it off perfectly. In recent years, my dad has obtained and learned to skillfully use a true-blue smoker, and now the whole family is treated to brisket, pulled pork, ribs and the best wings ever when I go home for barbecues. (RIP pork steaks.) So I’ve grown to appreciate that slowcooked goodness. In fact, I live on a quiet little cul-de-sac that is sometimes filled with the aroma of barbecue and other goodies that wafts out from my

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feedback

To send us feedback or story ideas, email editor@417mag.com

This green goodness is a cucumber fi cocktail made with Songbird oldfinch Gin from Ty Iechyd Da Distillery

WE LOVE TO GIVE BACK

SUMMER SIP This new crafted cucumber fi cocktail, made with our beloved Songbird oldfinch in, fea tured in 417 Magazine’s July’s Top Docs issue is the cocktail of the summer! Thank you to 417 Magazine for showing lo cal 417 love to our distillery and having a drink with us! Ty Iechyd Da Distillery via Facebook It was so fun to use an excellent locally made gin to create the perfect warm-weather cocktail! If you missed the recipe in the July issue, just visit 417mag.com and search cucumber fizz to find it online.—Editor

YOU’RE QUITE WELCOME Thank you for your support of the Springfield Symphony’s 12th Annual Gala. By being a part of this wonderful event, you ensure that symphon ic music lives on in our lives and community and enriches lives. We are grateful and hope to see you in the 22/23 season! The SSO Gala Committee

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, by Cortney Little Ash

HAVE MERCY! The results are in! 417 Magazine’s Top Doctors contest winners have been announced, and Mercy Joplin had 19 physicians named top docs! Thank you to all of the winners for taking excellent care of your patients, and to the community for recog ni ing them Mercy Joplin via Facebook

So proud of our community! Today we celebrate the 30th United Way Day of Caring. I visited with groups hard at work all over our community. Thanks to 417 Magazine, Forvis, American Na tional, LeadSGF Alumni Member Group, CU and MedPay. Vickie Hicks, Resource Development Director at United Way via Facebook Thanks to volunteers from 417 Magazine, the common areas of Franciscan Villa are receiving a fresh coat of paint! United Way of the O arks via Facebook Helping out with Day of Caring every year is one of our favorite ways to give back to the community and work together outside the o ce to do something good. This year we spent the day painting at Franciscan Villa, and it felt great!—Editor

WE LOVE 417-LAND 417 Magazine is 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 and the Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce.

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where’s

417?

Bring 417 Magazine along for the ride on your next adventure— whether you’re traveling or exploring close to home. Take a snapshot with the magazine, and send us a high-resolution copy with caption information about where the photo was taken and who is in the photo to art@417mag.com. Don’t forget to share your travels on social media with #wheres417.

2 3

1. EPHRAIM, WISCONSIN

2. WINTER PARK, COLORADO

3. EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

Laurie and Ed Keady visited Ephraim, Wisconsin with the “Welcome to land” issue.

The Simon and Aguirre families visited Winter Park, Colorado with the “ olf Paradise” ssue.

Vicki and Bill Trivitt took their copy of the “Farm to Kitchen” issue to Edinburgh, Scotland.

Local, Family Owned, Luxury Travel Experience, No Fees

Voted Missouri’s Best 3 Years in a row! 5335 S Campbell Ave, Springfield 417-633-7890 | 417travel.com

4 3

1. KYTHIRA, GREECE

2. DORA CANAL, FLORIDA

3. LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY

4. DISNEY WORLD

Ally and Derek Sherman brought their copy of the “Best Fall Fests” issue with them to Kythira reece.

Joan and ary Whitaker brought their copy of “The Heroes ssue” with them to the Dora Canal in Florida.

Judy & Stuart Heddon, Diane & Hob Divine, Jeanie & Ricky Brotherton traveled with the “Best Burgers” issue.

Jessica Martin and Naomi Ang and Naomi’s children visited Disney with their copy of “Outdoor Adventures.”

where’s

417?

2 3

1. BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

2. TABLE ROCK LAKE

3. COTTONWOOD, ARIZONA

Bob and Nina Lee, Alan Hailey, Lynn Behling, Lynne Hailey, and Dick Behling visited Boston with their copy of the “ uide to the Best Pi a” issue.

Christina Stack and Cole Dobson brought “ uide to the Best Pi a” issue with them to Pier at Table Rock Lake.

Don and Andi Bowen brought their copy of “The Heroes ssue” with them to Verde River in Cottonwood, Ari ona.

4 3

1. ALBUQUERQUE

2. KEY WEST, FLORIDA

3. BRANSON, MISSOURI

4. CANNES, FRANCE

Theresa and Todd Boness traveled to Albuquerque, New Me ico with their issue of “Best Fall Fests.”

Steve and Peggy Martin took their copy of the “Best of ” issue to Key West, Florida.

Kathy rieve and Sandy Tarpley went y fishing at Lake Taneycomo with their copy of the “Scenic Drives” issue.

Jayden, Cheree, Naya and Andy Whaley in Cannes, France with their copy of the “O arks Spring Hopping” issue.

SHORE TO IMPRESS, 32 TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL, 33 SUMMER SCHEDULE, 36

sweet

SUMMER

Photos by Kali McCroskey, courtesy Missouri State Fair

It’s fair season! Local and state events offer sweet treats and activities for the entire family. Read more on p. 36.

417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

CURRENTS

[ BEHIND THE SCENES ]

UNTIL WE MEAT AGAIN

The art team at one of many stops along their barbecue road trip of photoshoots. It was by far their new favorite (and most tasty) shot list!

417 MAGAZINE • 417MAG.COM

SARAH PATTON Art Director

KATIE POLLOCK ESTES Editorial Director

AMI WIGHTMAN Senior Account Executive

“My two long-time favorites are City Butcher and Skinner’s. Although I have to admit, my favorite barbecue of all time is outside the 417 area code and not for sale—my father-inlaw makes the best ribs!”

“I’m a sides girl, and the super-loaded potato salad from Whole Hog Cafe is (cue Karate Kid soundtrack here) the best around.”

“It’s hard to beat City Butcher brisket, but Gettin’ Basted has the whole package—their burnt ends coupled with the Poblano Cream Corn Brûlée is the perfect pairing!”

LANDRA BUNGE Finance Director

MOLLY DAVIS Advertising Designer

ENNIFER MASSEY-BROWN Event Manager

“Some of my favorite barbecue foods in 417-land are barbecue nachos and burnt ends from Buckingham’s and the smoked brisket from Hard Knox. ”

“Hard Knox BBQ takes the french-fry game to a whole new level with their thin, crispy, perfectly seasoned fries that make every bite feel like a little piece of heaven.”

“The sides are where it’s at, and you can’t beat the potato salad at Crosstown Barbecue! I also love that they offer favorites such as fried okra and cheese fries.”

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, Brandon Alms

staff poll

WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO GET BARBECUE FROM N LAND

MD AESTHETICS Aesthetic Treatments by Doctor

what we

Great Results Superb Service Best Rates

LEARNED D

“I

. Shout out to Carmine’s Woodfired Pi a in Joplin for making me a convert. got to try their take on the pie for this month’s restaurant review, and let me tell you, that crispy cheese fringe was a life changer.”—Editorial Director Katie Pollock Estes (read “Secret Sauce” on p. 90)

Specials for ﬁrst visit of new clients: Botox: $9 per unit Dysport: $8 per 2.5 units Fillers (most): $450 per syringe Sculptra: $500 per vial Kybella: $500 per vial

“Did you know the only open-to-the-public diamond mine in the United States is close to land Y C

D S P M A .”—Editorial Intern Michelle Lewis (read “Mining for Diamonds” on p. 53) “Through my interview with Fashion House owner Anette Tuxen, I B .”—Engagement and Style Editor Colin Shea Denniston (read “Savvy Shopper” on p. 30) “I loved seeing the local shop’s cute coastal items! Colin always does such a great job with Trend Report, and I’

Conveniently located near Battleﬁeld Mall 2740 S. Glenstone Ave. Suite 101 MDAESTHETICSLLC.COM For appointments, TEXT (417) 848-6959, 8 am–10 pm, 7 days a week

Help them ﬁnd their light again.

. will definitely be taking a shopping trip before my trip to New England.”—Research Editor Jo Jolliff (read “Trend Report” on p. 32)

EGGS WE CAN’T STOP TALKING ABOUT

It may be August but we’re still talking about Easter at 417 due to the eggs we continue to find around our o ce. Our Easter Bunny may have been a little too good at hiding eggs for our o ce Easter egg hunt this year, but we’re thankful for the surprise treats all year long!

Providing hope and transforming lives for children 6-17 in crisis. Help is here 24/7/365 417-799-7474 | perimeterhealthcare.com 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

quintessential 417-land

SUMMER ACTIVITIES

Summer is nearing its end. Soak up the last rays of sunshine and give your kids something to brag about upon their return to school with these activities, perfect for summer in the Ozarks.

Vacation in your own town at Table Rock Lake where you can enjoy the last warm days of the season.

417 MAGAZINE • 417MAG.COM

Photo courtesy Branson CVB

BY JO JOLLIFF

i on y

d e s e r v e

WATCH THE SUNSET

Summer can be unbearably hot during the day, but once the sun starts to go down so do your excuses for not being outside. The temperature reaches the perfect point and the cool summer bree e becomes your best friend. There’s a scenic along Top of the Rock Road (Top of the Rock Rd., Ridgedale) where you can set up shop and watch the sunset over Table Rock Lake. Pack a cooler, chairs and a frisbee for the kids to chase around on the extensive piece of land. Don’t forget to snap a picture of the family in front of the beautiful view!

GET ON THE WATER

Can you even claim to be a resident of 417land if you don’t take a trip to Table Rock Lake at some point over the summer We think not. There is something about anchoring in a cove and spending the day oating that makes summer truly feel like summer. Whether you have a boat or not, add Table Rock Lake to the top of your bucket list by renting a boat. S P M (380 State Park Marina Rd, Branson) has everything you need to create the perfect lake day, from jet skis to anchors. The second you pull out to the main body of water, pull up your favorite summer playlist and feel the wind in your hair as the boat cruises along the waves — you’ll thank us.

piercevision.com | 417.887.7151 3626 South Ave.

DINE OUTDOORS

Sitting on a patio at any local 417-land restaurant is a decision you won’t regret and is something you can only take advantage of in the warm weather. Enjoy a peaceful setting at The O M R F F (802 Finley Farms Ln., Ozark) or go to Cantina Laredo (1001 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson) for dinner with a show of the Branson landing fountain on the hour.

CATCH A MOVIE IN THE PARK

While movies play at F P each Friday and Saturday throughout the summer, you’ll have another chance to catch a film outdoors this summer at M C P (701 N. Taylor Way, Nixa). The movie for this month is Encanto, the perfect family sing-along movie. You can enjoy snacks from the concessions and spend the night under the stars.

BE A TOURIST

n the O arks, we get to e perience summer on a whole other level without even leaving the state. Take advantage of the tourist activities in town, from Silver Dollar City and W W to the B F W and an endless amount of caves to explore. You can’t go wrong. These are the perfect way to wrap up the summer and soak up what life in land has to offer. 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

HEALTH

an amendment Just before we sent this magazine to the printer, we discovered some omissions in the Top Doctors list that was printed in the July 2022 edition. Due to an error made when the list was formatted, a few specialty categories were accidentally left off. 417 Magazine regrets the error and has corrected it online and in our digital edition. The following physicians are the ones who should have, but did not, appear in the printed July 2022 edition of 417 Magazine. (A note on methodology: Conducted by Data Joe, Top Doctors is an annual nomination-based project in which we ask physicians in the southwest Missouri area to vote for doctors in various specialties. To read the full methodology and see all contest winners, visit 417mag.com/topdoctors.)

BOLIVAR H

Winner LEONID SHUNYAKOV Carrie J Babb Cancer Center 417-326-7200

JOPLIN H

Winner SAMIR MUKUNDRAY DALIA Mercy Clinic Oncology and Hematology, 417-782-7722 Runners-Up DAVID W. CROY Mercy Clinic Oncology and Hematology, 417-782-7722 IRVING E. LAFRANCIS Mercy Clinic Oncology and Hematology, 417-782-7722 PAMELA LANDON Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute, 417-347-4000 MATTHEW MILLER Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute, 417-347-4000 ATMAN SHAH Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute, 417-347-4000

Runners Up AMANDA HARRELL Freeman Southwest Internal Medicine, 417-347-8318 CLINT DUNKLE Freeman Southwest Internal Medicine, 417-347-8318 BRANDON GIBSON Freeman Southwest Internal Medicine, 417-347-8711 V

JESSICA NICOLE SNIDER Mercy Clinic Cancer and Hematology, 417-820-8099

V S Winner . RANDOLPH MULLINS Wheeler Heart and Vascular Center 417-875-2626

LAVANYA TIRIVEEDHI Mercy Clinic Cancer and Hematology, 417-820-8099

Winner RAYMOND VETSCH Freeman Heart & Vascular Institute 417-347-5001

KARIM WELAYA Hulston Cancer Center, 417-875-2607

SPRINGFIELD

Internal Medicine

Winner LAURA BETH DEN OUDEN Ferrell-Duncan Clinic, 417-875-2740

Winner ROGER HOLDEN Oncology Hematology Associates 417-882-4880 Runners-Up JIANTAO DING Oncology Hematology Associates 417-882-4880 ROBERT OHN ELLIS Hulston Cancer Center 417-882-4880 BROOKE GILLETT Oncology Hematology Associates 417-882-4880

Winner BERNARD BETTASSO Freeman Southwest Internal Medicine, 417-347-8318

RA ESH R. NAIR Mercy Clinic Cancer and Hematology, 417-820-8099

417 MAGAZINE • 417MAG.COM

TERESA A. OLSEN Mercy Clinic Internal Medicine 417-888-5658

DUSHYANT VERMA Hulston Cancer Center 417-882-4880

Internal Medicine

SRIKANT NANNAPANENI Hulston Cancer Center, 417-875-2607

Runners-Up RA AMANIKKAM ANANDARA AH Mercy Clinic Internal Medicine 417-820-3500 MIRA LEE CHOE Ferrell-Duncan Clinic, 417-875-2750 STEPHEN LEE HOLMES Ferrell-Duncan Clinic, 417-875-3030

Runners-Up ON A. REESE Mercy Clinic Vascular Specialists 417-820-3912 GRANT ROBERT SCOTT Wheeler Heart and Vascular Center 417-875-2632 ZACHARY CHARLES SCHMITTLING Wheeler Heart and Vascular Center 417-875-2626 ROBERT W. VORHIES Wheeler Heart and Vascular Center 417-875-2627

WEST PLAINS H

Winner CHARLES H. MORGAN O arks Healthcare Cancer Treatment Center, 417-257-5900 Internal Medicine

DOMINIC M. MELDI Mercy Clinic Internal Medicine 417-888-5658 WILLIAM COLLINS MOORE Ferrell-Duncan Clinic, 417-875-3270

Winner CHRISTOPHER D. COCHRAN O arks Healthcare nternal Medicine 417-257-5989

SHOP LOCAL

PROMOTION

We did the browsing for you. Check out these goodies from local spots.

Kazak Rug

Sumatra Occasional Chair

Tacori Crescent Petite Diamond Necklaces

$1,670 AT RUG FASHION 2694 S. GLENSTONE AVE. | SPRINGFIELD 417-368-3438

$810 AT OBELISK HOME 214 W. PHELPS ST. SUITE 101 | SPRINGFIELD 417-616-6488 | OBELISKHOME.COM

ROSE AND WHITE GOLD FOR $790 EACH AT MITCHUM JEWELERS 2431 W. JACKSON ST. | OZARK | 417-581-2415 MITCHUMJEWELERS.COM

ReSound Key 4 Rechargeable Hearing Aids

Apple Butter

$1990 AT SPRINGFIELD HEARING CENTER 3250 E. BATTLEFIELD ROAD SUITE N | SPRINGFIELD 417-351-4100 | SPRINGFIELDHEARINGCENTER.COM

THE KEETER CENTER 1 OPPORTUNITY AVE. | POINT LOOKOUT 417-239-1900 | STORE.COFO.EDU

Your subscription to the good life. Find your new favorite restaurants, home inspirations, relaxing weekend getaways and so much more in 417 Magazine and 417 Home.

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HIT THE ROAD

escape to

BLANCHARD SPRINGS BY JO JOLLIFF

BLANCHARD SPRINGS

Blanchard Springs Recreation Area (Ark. 14 W. Fifty-Six; 888-757-2246 offers a rich, un forgettable experience in the outdoors. With waterfalls and water to wade around in and guided tours, you won’t run out of things to do. The paved walkways make it easy to bring along the entire family, including any pets.

From short stacks to morning giggles, the most memorable moments happen in the home. As a local community bank, we work closely with our customers to understand their priorities and help them reach financial goals, like home ownership. Get pre-qualified for the home sweet home that fits your budget and lifestyle at BANKOFMISSOURI.COM.

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MIRROR LAKE WATERFALL 

Mirror Lake Waterfall (333 Buckeye Ln, Norfork) makes you feel like you’re in a fantasy land, just hours from home. You’ll have to see it to believe how truly unbelievable this spot is, with cool waters owing from Blanchard Springs Caverns over a beautiful stone and concrete dam.

Photo by Joshua Beecher

Take a trip to Blanchard Springs and Mountain View, Arkansas, for a weekend experiencing the sheer beauty this small town has to offer.

HIT THE ROAD

TRIP INFO

REASON TO GO

Photos courtesy Mellon’s Country Store, Shutterstock

Order a tasty southern meal from The Skillet Restaurant (above) then make a stop at Mellon’s Country Store (right) to feel like you’ve traveled back in time.

Waterfall views WHO TO BRING

The entire family TRAVEL TIME

2 hours 50 minutes each way

THE SKILLET RESTAURANT 

Nestled on a hill at the Folk Center State Park, The Skillet Restaurant (1032 Park Ave, Mountain View; 870-269-3139) has natural cedar framing big, oor to ceiling windows to give guests a view of the surrounding wildlife. With a butter y garden and feeding stations, the woods make for a show while you dine on a tasty Southern meal.

IMMY DRIFTWOOD MUSIC BARN

Mountain View is known for their love of folk music and a trip to the town wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Jimmy Driftwood Music Barn (19775 AR-5, Mountain View; 870269-8042) for an evening of folk, gospel, mountain, country and bluegrass music performed by the best local musicians around.

HIGH STANDARDS. HIGH EXPECTATIONS.

MELLON’S COUNTRY STORE

Mellon’s Country Store (19735 AR-5, Mountain View; 870-269-3354) exuberates oldtime ambiance in their 1940s style country store complete with antique gas pumps and rocking chairs on the porch out front. You can shop for unique gifts and collectibles as well as old fashioned toys and candy.

FUEL UP FOR BACK TO SCHOOL.

Scan for Savings!

hy-vee.com | 417.881.1950 | 1720 W. Battlefield Road | 2150 E. Sunshine Street 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

Anette Tuxen says her newly renovated store caters to a wide range, from travelers to locals.

[ SAVVY SHOPPER ]

a new house

FOR FASHION Away from the country shows and novelty shops on the 76 strip, Fashion House brings upscale clothing and top-of-the-line customer experience to a different kind of Branson shopper.

ashion House in Branson—a stylish boutique conveniently located less than a mile away from the Branson Landing on Veterans Boulevard—is the anthesis of the “two days before your event—single click, add to cart—fast and furious online shopping” that so many of us have become accustomed to over the past few years. Rather, it’s about creating a tailored, one-of-a-kind customer experience. “We like to really pamper these ladies when they come in here,” says Anette Tuxen, owner of Fashion House. “We just want them to feel perfectly happy when they leave. We take good care of the customers and give them that shopping experience that you don’t get a lot of places.” Originally opened in 2000 as a small, mostly gift and accessory boutique near Big Cedar

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Lodge, the evolution of the store has grown along with its customer base. Tuxen recently completed a large-scale renovation and expansion to Fashion House’s brick-and-mortar location, including doubling the store’s size to around 4,000 square feet, and a complete aesthetic redesign featuring a bright, open-concept layout with clean lines, wide plank flooring and minimalist architectural details. “I’m from Denmark originally,” says Tuxen. “I like Scandinavian design—like real sleek, contemporary, modern designs.” The original north side of the store features Tuxen’s more casual item—jeans, jean-friendly tops and lake-style fashions—while on the newly expanded south side, shoppers can find dressier, more upscale items with higher price points— brands like French Kande and Joseph Ribkoff.

Photo by Brandon Alms

BY COLIN SHEA DENNISTON

An elegant venue for your next event.

The expanded south side of the building features more upscale items including the French Kande jewelry line.

“Our customers come from everywhere,” says Tuxen. They’re not the typical Branson tourists that go downtown to Dick’s Five and Dime and get souvenirs,” she adds. Tuxen’s loyal customer base consists partly of those living in and around the Southwest Missouri region, while many are out-of-town travelers who visit Branson once or twice a year. While their husbands are off golfing or fishing, the ladies are ready to shop. “They come in here every time,” Tuxen says. “And they usually go out of here with a whole new wardrobe.”

4700 square feet at Eaton Hall | Lakeside Pavilion Outdoor Event Area | Commercial Kitchen 180” Projection Screen | Bar Service | And More!

NOW OFFERING

224 Bass Bend Trail | Cape Fair | 417-772-4273

CUSTOM AIRBRUSH

SPRAY TANS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Photos by Brandon Alms; Rendering by Hook Creative

 The rendering of the new exterior of Fashion House, which is set to be in place this fall.

TREND I LOVE

“Dresses for some reason have been huge this year. I think because people were not going to any events and stuff for the last couple years,” says Tuxen. “And of course, it’s summer so it’s light and comfortable. For fall, bla ers are going to be huge more like the men’s bla er look.” —Anette Tuxen, Owner

FASHION HOUSE 109 N. Veterans Blvd., Branson Facebook.com/bransonfashionhouse Instagram: @fashionhousebranson

BOOK NOW! Call 417-553-9590

6 LOCALLY-OWNED LOCATIONS

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Your Vacation needs Branson in the fall.

"You know me for my work in the summer, but I’m a hit in the fall too." - Vacation Sure, you give your Vacation its outdoor time in the summer. But when fall rolls around you forget all about it. You should know a healthy vacation lives an active lifestyle all year. Your Vacation needs cool weather surrounded by changing leaves and lakes full of fish. Your Vacation needs Branson in the fall. Find out more at ExploreBranson.com.

TREND REPORT Capri Blue Volcano candle, $22 at The Market

Woven whitewash placemat, $15 at House Counsel

Common Ground Martha Stewart Fruit Desserts cookbook, $28.99 at Brown Derby Wine Center

kennebunkport

OR BUST My forever favorite summertime style is an effortlessly elegant, weekend with the Kennedys, New England–inspired coastal aesthetic. It’s crisp, clean and always looks ultra-chic. And while I may never own a shingled home in Nantucket, my style can still say otherwise, right? —Colin Shea Denniston, Style Editor

’Lysse button down top, $118 at Harem & Co.; Zadig & Voltaire viscose scarf, $178 at Harem & Co.

Winc Sumer Water rosé, $15.99 at Brown Derby Wine Center

Mud Pie tray and dip set, $35.49 at Brown Derby Wine Center

Republic of Tea black currant rosemary iced tea, $9.99 at Brown Derby Wine Center; Republic of Tea Sonoma rosé iced tea, $10.99 at Brown Derby Wine Center

L’Agence Margot jeans, $275 at Harem & Co.

Summer House lumbar pillow, $33 at House Counsel

Bloomingville stemless wine glasses, $6.89 each at Brown Derby Wine Center

Nicolas Vahe white tru e olive oil, $21.99 at Brown Derby Wine Center; Nicolas Vahe mango coconut chutney, $12.99 at Brown Derby Wine Center

Coastal Grandmother vibes. Picture your Hamptons hideaway, where linen trumps leather and Nancy Meyers always reigns supreme.” —Colin Shea Denniston

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Photos by Kali McCroskey

“Slip on the boat shoes, tie a cashmere sweater around your shoulders and lean fully into those

ESSAY

back to

SCHOOL

Despite the excitement that comes with the back-to-school season, Sarah Williams avoids getting swept up in the details and instead focuses on what really matters now and throughout the school year.

If I have the pe rfect chalkboa rd sign and cu have not love, test back to sc I am just anot hool pictures, her crafty mom but . If I pack a ben to box full of ve ge es, but do not have love, I am tables and artisanally craf ted sandwichjust a mom wit hands. h a little too m uch time on m y If I buy all of the right cloth es and the shoe middle schoole s to match, an r to explore al d if I allow my l of the terrible am just a mom trends, but do who wonders h not have love, ow in the world I Crocs are still a thing. If I give all of the best advice and teach my not have love, ki I am like Char lie Brown’s teac ds all the right things, but do her, “Wah, wah , wah, wah…” Love is patien t. Love is kind . It does not d blame teacher emand perfect s, it grades, it doe learning challe is not prouder of the valed s not ictorian than nges. It does n the child with ot dishonor pe does not live ou ers with difficu t unfulfilled d lt home lives, reams through ahead, it does it a child, it doe not compare to s not cheat to others. Love d failures but re ge t oes not deligh joices with thei t in other kids’ r successes. It always prot ects will live with in the vulnerable, always trus ts your gut, al tegrity, alway ways hopes kid s perseveres th s rough difficult y. Love never fail s. Where there are Friday nig touchdown. W ht here there are band competiti lights, they will throw a fin beat. Where th al ons, they will ere are report drum their last cards, they wil there is calcul ln us, they will n ever use it agai ever really matter. Where n. For we do our best and hope for gr thrown, it will all mostly disap eatness, but when the grad uation cap is pear. Love will alway s remain.

Photo by Brandon Alms; Illustrated by Grace Chipley

BY SARAH WILLIAMS

harpened pencils. New backpacks. Fresh markers. It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Shopping for school supplies is a favorite pastime of mine. As a kid, I loved it mostly because my mom splurged for the crayon box with the sharpener. As an adult, it’s a new beginning. A fresh start. It’s taken all summer, but I’ve finally forgotten how much my kids complain about math. The start of a school year is special. The frustrations of last year are in the past. My kids seem a foot taller. The dog days of summer have me craving structure. There is so much anticipation of what will be. How will my children change? What friends will they make?

What new skills will be learned? I love the idea of school more than I actually like school. The prep work is much more fun than the mundane days of spelling tests and biology quizzes. It’s easy for me to lose perspective when the days blur into each other. I wrote a poem of sorts to remind me of what truly matters during the school year. Academics are a small piece of the people my children are becoming. Above all, I want to love them well and keep a proper outlook on my role in their lives. There is no telling what all will happen this school year. Choose to love your children well. And trust the rest will fall into place.

Getting ready for school is fun both as a child picking out new school supplies and as the adult paying for them. Sarah Williams provides a glimpse into both perspectives and offers advice for all the days that follow after the first, to focus on love. 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

SPACE

history that

NEVER GROWS OLD

Renovations to Tina Keith’s historic farmhouse made for many surprises along the way and a beautiful finished product. BY JO JOLLIFF

hen the opportunity arose to return to their hometown, Tina Keith and her husband, Ron, jumped at the chance and purchased an 1800s farmhouse. They were excited to give it some TLC. “We knew that it needed quite a bit of updating and since buying it, pretty much everything in the house has been touched, everything torn back to its original layers,” Keith says. In the process of peeling back the many layers of the house, there were some

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disappointments, like that the original pine floors were too far gone to be salvaged, but they also uncovered many surprises like beautiful exposed brick in the master bedroom and a fireplace in the living room. “The most exciting part of the renovation was discovering a fireplace that was walled up,” Keith says. “It was so rustic and raw. I was like, okay, this is going to be the centerpiece of this room for sure, and discovering it kind of helped to drive my inspiration for the rest of the house.”

While renovating upstairs, they discovered a closet that had been sealed off and walled up with treasures hidden inside, locked up like their very own time capsule, with the original wallpaper, old spools and a bonnet sitting inside. After the renovations were complete, the Keiths invited back the home’s previous owners, excited for them to see their findings and uncover more about the history of the home. From the previous owners, they learned that the farmhouse was built sometime in the 1800s and was used as a field hospital during the Civil War. “It was cool to see their reaction to what we’ve done and to hear their stories,” she says. The Keiths worked hard to stay true to the history of the home, salvaging all that they could and keeping a style that balances rustic elegance. They continue to use the house for its original purpose, as a farmhouse, raising beef cattle on the land and growing flowers around the home so friends can come make fresh bouquets, keeping the home a place filled with life and friendship.

Photo by Brandon Alms

The previous owner said he thought there used to e a replace in the living room. fter nding evidence of a hearth, the eiths immediately started hammering and discovered what is now their favorite feature of the historic home.

SPACE

Photos by Brandon Alms

or their sunroom, eith laid ric pavers in a herring one pattern with heavy mud to match the anti ue style.

Tina Keith (pictured here with Daisy) and her husband, Ron, spent more than a year taking on major renovations. Keith kept track of the renovations in a notebook with pictures of other homes that inspired her style.

Keith updated her Instagram followers throughout the remodel with beautiful photos of her decor and designs @delightedwiththedetails

here were three edrooms upstairs, and the eiths turned one of them into a athroom attached to the main edroom.

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CALENDAR

the

MUST LIST From live music to outdoor events, you won’t want to miss these events happening at some of your favorite spots in 417-land.

OZARK EMPIRE FAIR

THROUGH AUGUST 6 The fair is back with games, rides, food, live performances and more. Don’t miss the carnival midway, extreme freestyle bull riding, and more. Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield. Visit ozarkempirefair.com.

MISSOURI STATE FAIR

AUGUST 11–21

Road trip to Sedalia this month for rides, games, motorsports and a rodeo—plus performances from ZZ Top and KC & the Sunshine Band. 2503 W. 16th St., Sedalia. Visit mostatefair.com.

CAL RIPKEN MAJOR/70 WORLD SERIES

AUGUST 4 THROUGH AUGUST 13

It’s big-time baseball this month! More than 1,000 12U teams compete for the right to be one of the 20 US teams and 10 International teams that play in Branson each August. These teams all start in their local league and advance through District, State and Regional tournaments before qualifying for the CRWS in Branson. 5 10 daily admission, 35 75 week pass; Ballparks of America, 1000 Pat Nash Drive, Branson. For tickets and more information, visit major70worldseries.org.

Photo courtesy Branson Convention and Visitor’s Bureau

BY ZACHARY RAINES

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CALENDAR

SEUSSICAL JR.

AUGUST 5 AND 6

Photos by Brandon Alms, courtesy Shutterstock

The Springfield Little Theatre Education Depart ment presents Seussical Jr., a musical extravaganza. Transporting audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus, the Cat in the Hat narrates the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must also guard an abandoned egg that’s been left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. 11 16; 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.; Springfield Little Theatre, 311 East Walnut Street, Springfield. For tickets, visit springfieldlittletheatre. org or call 417-869-1334.

GUIDED BISON SAUNTER AUGUST 6

Take a stroll among the tallgrass prairie and watch the bison graze the land. Visitors should be prepared for at least a 2-mile saunter over uneven terrain. Since the location of the bison will be unknown until the morning of the event, bringing water and snacks and wearing sturdy footwear is recommended. Please prepare for the weather. Registration for this event is required, and there is a limit of 25 participants. 10 a.m.; Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center, 134 NW 150th Ln, Liberal. Call 417-843-6711 to register.

ROUTE 66 CAR SHOW AUGUST 12 AND 13

A parade on Friday evening and car show on Saturday featuring music, vendors, a Women’s World Expo, Gypsy Poker and more. The festival activities are free, including the car/motorcycle show and all music performances. But bring some cash for the variety of food, beverages and merchandise being sold by vendors. If you are an old-car enthusiast you will want to enter the Mother Roadster Foundation’s ra e to win a Ford Coupe. Every raf e ticket purchased contributes to raise money for the Shriners Children’s Hospital. Free; noon to 11 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday; Around the Route 66 Visitor’s Center, 815 E St Louis St., Springfield. For ra e tickets, go to motherroadsterfoundation.com/online-store. For more information, visit route66festivalsgf.com. 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

CALENDAR

HANSON – RED GREEN BLUE 2022 TOUR

AUGUST 16

The pop-rock trio Hanson is on their Red Green Blue World Tour. n uenced by soul and rock’n’roll, this band of brothers is celebrating 30 years performing together. The new Red Green Blue album brings together Taylor, Issac and Zac like never before with a third of the album written and produced by each brother. Find out more about them at hanson.net. 39 ; 8 p.m.; The Historic Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E, Springfield. For tickets, visit gillioztheatre.com or call 417-863-9491.

KIDS FREE FISHING DAY

AUGUST 20

Depending on the local health department guidelines, there will be nature activities, bluegrass music and lunch at Roaring River State Park. Youth 15 and younger will be able to get tags from the park store for free the day of the event. One section of the river, from the first low water crossing up toward the hatchery, will be specially designated for youth to fish in all day long. Volunteers will be present to help in any way possible. Free; 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Roaring River State Park, 12716 Farm Road 2239, Cassville. For more information, visit mostateparks.com/event/92661/kidsfree-fishing-day or call 417-847-2539.

CATTLE BARON’S BALL OF SOUTHWEST MISSOURI

Put on your rhinestone cowboy and cowgirl clothes and enjoy live entertainment, games and other fun activities, all while supporting the fight against cancer. Since 2009, the Cattle Baron’s Ball of Southwest Missouri has raised over $5.7 million for the fight against cancer. Over guests will be treated to various stations featuring western-themed foods prepared by the area’s top chefs, complimentary adult beverages and soft drinks, and a variety of delicious desserts. 200 1,500; 6 p.m.; Ozark Empire Fairgrounds EPlex, 3001 N Grant Ave, Springfield. For tickets, visit cattlebaronsballswmo.org or call 417-447-1483 for more information.

“WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC AUGUST 30

“Weird Al” Yankovic is stopping by Springfield on his 2022 The Ridiculously Self-Indulgent, Ill-Advised Vanity Tour. He is forgoing his usual theatrics and instead performing his original, non-parody songs. A VIP meet-and-greet experience is optional, featuring Weird Al Jeopardy!, pre-show hangout with fellow fans, autographed merchandise and a photo opportunity after the show. 55 / 329 VIP; 8 p.m.; The Historic Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E, Springfield. For tickets, visit gillioztheatre.com or call 417-863-9491. 38

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Photos courtesy the Historic Gillioz Theatre, Shutterstock

AUGUST 27

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PROMOTION

Photo courtesy Branson CVB

BRANSON

GUIDE

When you think “Fall Vacation,” think Branson! It’s the perfect time to check out all of the attractions, shows, adventures and fun Branson has to offer. See everything that’s going on in this guide.

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BRANSON GUIDE

PROMOTION

ATTRACTIONS BRANSON CVB Make your fall season one to remember with a trip to the best destination in the Midwest. Branson has something everyone will love! Kids will love: Riding roller coasters at Silver Dollar City and who wouldn’t want to explore the Aquarium on the Boardwalk, Titanic Museum, Hollywood Wax Museum, and more! Adults will love: Enjoying time on the water at Lake Taneycomo, Table Rock Lake or Bull Shoals Lake with boat rentals and fishing! Must see: Finish your days in Branson by watching one of our many live shows that the whole family will love! Start planning at ExploreBranson.com.

Experience Learn Support

THE KEETER CENTER The Keeter Center® sitting on the picturesque campus of College of the Ozarks® invites you for a visit this fall season. Experience special accommodations, unique shopping and culinary features at this award-winning, multi-functional lodging, dining, and event center just three miles from world-class entertainment and shopping in Branson, Missouri. For inquiries or more information, visit keetercenter.edu. Must book: A variety of well-appointed meeting rooms, private dining rooms, and an auditorium with custom furnishings, state-of-the-art audio-visual services, and flexible event arrangements set in a rustic and elegant atmosphere.

Come for the thrill. Leave with a heart to help. nationaltigersanctuary.org #nationaltigersanctuary 518 State Highway BB, Saddlebrook | 417-587-3633 42

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Must see: Browse a wide selection of student-made products by visiting the gift shop, located in The Keeter Center Lobby.

BRANSON GUIDE

PROMOTION

Must eat: After a day of choosing the perfect gifts, enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at Dobyns Dining Room, The Keeter Center’s award-winning restaurant. Kids will love: When you stay overnight in one of the suites at the Mabee Lodge, the bell staff delivers freshly baked cookies and milk to your room during the renowned turn-down service. The next morning, stop by the creamery for a scoop of homemade ice cream, hand-crafted with cream from the campus dairy. Grown-ups will love: Waking up refreshed while enjoying your inroom breakfast or a cup of coffee from the bakery and admiring the scenic views of the campus from your own private balcony. Gift cards available: Visit keetercenter.edu or call 417-239-1900.

NATIONAL TIGER SANCTUARY

Know before you go: The rescue offers both walking and tram tours that give visitors the opportunity to learn about and take pictures with their 40 big cats, lemurs and other assorted wildlife. Most memorable moment: Seeing the big cats up close on the feeding tour, in which visitors can further participate by feeding the felines themselves. You’ll love: Each ticket goes to a good cause. As a nonprofit organization, the National Tiger Sanctuary ensures each dollar goes toward the health of its big cats and maintenance of their facilities. Everyone’s talking about: A behind-the-scenes tour is a combination walking-riding tour and features an indepth look at how the sanctuary is run. This includes stops at the big cat retirement center and inside knowledge from the animal care staff themselves.

SILVER DOLLAR CITY Fall in love with the sights at Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival. With a major expansion announced for 2022, “Pumpkins in The City” is a must-see! Harvest Festival | September 21 – October 29: This season, pumpkins are aglow all the way to Wilson’s Farm, growing past the Giant Barn Swing and into Outlaw Run. At sunset, tens of thousands of pumpkins – carved, sculpted, life-size and themed – illuminate the night sky, accentuated with a lively, blacklight dance party every night in Pumpkin Plaza. A daytime dimension includes hundreds of demonstrating crafters like artist Barry Brown, featured on Good Morning America, carving pumpkins with intricate designs unlike any you’ve seen before, along with music throughout the streets and stages. Must see: Watch the artists from Rock On Ice sculpt pumpkins into unbelievable creations. Located just beyond Wilson’s Farm, Mr. Wilson’s Giant Pumpkin Patch is home to hulking half-ton homegrown pumpkins that you have to see to believe! With fun names like Mighty Mabel and Brutus The Vast, each of these horticultural wonders was grown right here in the USA by master gardeners. Culinary experts create specialty seasonal foods with sweet and savory pumpkin flavors and hearty soups the whole family will enjoy.

Photo courtesy Silver Dollar City

Don’t forget to download the Silver Dollar City Mobile App before your visit. It’s your perfect park companion with a GPS-enabled map, show schedules, ride wait times and more! (Insider Tip: The Tasting Passport is a great way to try the many sweet and savory pumpkin-infused foods created for this festival.)

Check out the spooky sculptures set up at Silver Dollar City during their Harvest Festival! 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

BRANSON GUIDE

PROMOTION

ENTERTAINMENT

THE MANSION THEATRE The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts located in Branson Missouri, is defining theatrical excellence without compromise. From world-class concert events, to award winning Broadway productions and cultural theatre experiences, The Mansion Theatre is now the premier performing arts center in the Midwest. Legendary Musicians and Shows: This season, experience the legendary Oak Ridge Boys, Jimmy Fortune, Gene Watson, The Bellamy Brothers, The Gatlin Brothers and The Gatlin Brothers Country & Christmas show.

Ballet in Branson: Sit back and enjoy the amazing story of Wahzhazhe, An Osage Ballet. Their story is one of tradition, tragedy, triumph, survival and the enduring spirit of the Osage people. The audience experience is immersive and every feature of The Osage Ballet has been thoughtfully designed with painstaking care. Broadway in Branson: Just in time for the holidays, Broadway takes the stage in December with Disney Princess: The Concert. For generations, Disney’s Princesses have enchanted us with their courage and kindness. Their music has been the soundtrack to our lives. Now, for the first time in forever, that beloved music will be celebrated in Disney Princess – The Concert! Be our guest as an allstar quartet of Broadway and animated film icons celebrates all the Disney Princesses in an unforgettable evening of songs, animation and stories alongside their magical Music Director and enchanting Prince.

THE TRACK FAMILY FUN PARKS

Know before you go: The Track Family Fun Parks is your Branson destination for fall fun! Make plans now to gather your family to experience everything NEW dropping this season! You’ll love: In addition to the favorite high rise go-kart tracks, bumper rides and mini golf, there are now two new rides included in the Unlimited Park Passes — the Spinning Coaster at Track 3 and Thunder Struck at Track 4. Best photo op: Snap a pic from 150’ in the air on the Branson Ferris Wheel. With 40 gondolas holding 240 passengers, this ride illuminates nightly with 16,000 LED lights! Everyone’s talking about: New food options! At Track 4, fuel up at Fuel Fresh American Grill, which has incredible outdoor deck seating. Track 3 features a new Food Truck Plaza rest area where The Taco Company food truck is serving tacos and more!

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PROMOTION

BRANSON GUIDE

ACCOMMODATIONS

HCW MANAGEMENT From an award winning golf club to waterfront shopping and unbeatable restaurants, HCW has it all. Shop, dine and play at Branson Landing, where a beautiful open-air, waterfront setting is home to over 100 shops, attractions, restaurants, two Hilton hotels and a $7.5 million water and fire spectacular synchronized to light, fire and music. Modern Lakefront Dining: Homemade pastas, artisan style pizzas, fresh fish flown in twice weekly, and mouth-watering Italian fare including Ramata’s signature meatballs. Do we have your attention yet? Ramata Italian is Branson, MO’s Premiere Lakeside Modern Italian Restaurant located in Branson Landing. Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, handcrafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients and an extensive wine list in the contemporary dining room and bar or on the outside patio with breathtaking views of Lake Taneycomo. Kansas City 28 day aged Certified Hereford Beef and the Midwest’s freshest seafood from around the world can be found at Level 2 Steakhouse in the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel. Their beef is prepared in a 1600 degree radiant oven, sealing in the juices, and creating the perfect steak. Legendary Golf Club: Branson Hills Golf Club is a masterful design carved through the Ozark Mountains with natural rock outcroppings, waterfalls, creeks and an abundance of wildlife. Enjoy lunch at Magnolia Grille, which is open to the public. Branson Hills Golf Club has been named Golf Channel’s 2021 Golf Advisor Golfer’s Choice #1 Best Golf Course to play in Missouri & 36th Best Course in the Nation #1 Course In Missouri by Golfweek 2012-2018!

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the ozarks tap & pour is Back New locations to visit and more goodies to collect! Sign-up is free, and all you have to do is check-in after purchase at each establishment on the tour! Experience the Ozarks through the growing craft beverage scene. So whether it’s enjoying a refreshing beverage at one of the many local craft breweries, chowing down at one of our foodie-approved restaurants or cruising a scenic water trail on a kayak, we love our city and know the best places to eat, drink and play. SEE YOU IN SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI!

explore springfield at SpringfieldMO.org/TapAndPour

SOAK UP THE SUN, 52 DIG FOR SPARKLES, 53

outside lazy

RIVER

Photo by Josh Beecher

Spend the warm summer days of August on the river, relaxing and cooling off at these 417-land rivers, perfect for beginners and families. Read more about navigating these waters on p. 51.

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[EXPLORE]

float

There’s nothing like floating cool Missouri waters on a hot summer day. Happily for 417-landers, several nearby rivers are close enough for a day trip and easy enough for families and beginners. Try these four easy options less than two hours from Springfield. BY SONY HOCKLANDER

JAMES RIVER AT HOOTENTOWN Hootentown Canoe Rental and Store, 1254 Hootentown Road, hootontowncanoe.org, 417-369-2266 One reason we love living in the Ozarks is the easy access to outdoor adventures. Floating is no exception, and it doesn’t get much quicker than driving 30 minutes to paddle the James River from Shelvin Rock to Hootentown access points, a mile oat ust south of Springfield via US . Compared to some Missouri rivers, the James is a relatively slow, mild oat when it’s at optimal water levels. Given its ease and accessibility, it’s a great place for families and newbie paddlers to hone river skills (although parents should expect more fun-seeking adult groups on Saturdays). Not only that, the James is part of our heritage, with a century long culture of oating and fishing between Springfield and Branson.

Photo by Josh Beecher

JAMES RIVER AT GALENA James River Outfitters, 110 -Bridge Blvd, jamesriveroutfitters.com, 417-357-6443; Bridge Canoe, 309 Elm St., ybridgecanoe.com, 417-297-9690 Head a little farther south to alena via US and Missouri for a no hassle short oat you can do in half a day. A popular 5-mile stretch takes paddlers from the H.L Kerr Access to the Ralph Cox Memorial Access in Galena—a great option if you have your own vessel. Or rent a kayak, canoe and more from two local outfitters, the Y Bridge Canoe Rental and James River Outfitters JRO . The JRO offers a mile oat and a mile adventure a great way for new oaters to practice river skills without a long stretch of water. With JRO, paddlers are shuttled to private access points.

Big Piney River leads floaters to Piney River Brewing Company, where you can stop for pints and sample trays in their taproom.

NIANGUA RIVER

BIG PINEY RIVER

Niangua River Oasis, 171 Nro Rd, Lebanon, nrocanoe.com, 417-532-6333 or 417-588-3797; Mountain Creek Family Resort, 11564 Kinfolk Rd, Eldridge, mountaincreekcanoes.com, 417-426-5641 There’s a reason the Niangua River near Lebanon attracts newbie and e perienced oaters t’s close, it’s scenic and it’s easy for beginners. ts cool spring-fed waters are particularly refreshing in the summertime and you’ll find plenty of gravel bars to stop for a picnic. Families, nature-lovers and anglers should know one thing up front Unless you want a Mardi-Gras experience with beer-toting party crowds, avoid going on Saturday. Other than its weekend party rep, the Niangua is perfect for people new to oating or families seeking a gentle ow. One short mile stretch goes from Bennett Spring to the NRO canoe rental and campground. Or oat the . mile stretch from Barclay Conservation Area to Mountain Creek Family Resort.

Wilderness Ridge Resort, 33850 Windsor Lane, wildernessridgeresort.com, 573-435-6767; Peck’s Last Resort, 33401 Windsor Lane, peckslastresort.com, 573-435-6669; Boiling Spring Campground, 18700 Cliff Road, bscoutdoors.com, 573-759-7294 f you’re looking for a slow pace to improve your new river skills, or to introduce kids to oating, consider the Big Piney River. Under two hours from Springfield northeast on toward Fort Leonard Wood, the upper and middle sections are noted for scenic pine topped limestone bluffs. Two outfitters, Wilderness Ridge Resort and Peck’s Last Resort, offer a mile oat from the Si Crossings access and another outfitter, the Boiling Spring Campground, has oats on both the Big Piney and Gasconade rivers. Some groups may enjoy quenching their postoat thirst at the aptly named craft brewery, Piney River Brewing Company. 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

PARK T

A RITTER SUMMER

Ritter Springs is the perfect place to bask in the sun and explore nature. BY MARIAH HUNTER

RITTER SPRINGS PARK W Farm Rd Springfield parkboard.org/rittersprings

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reene County Park Board

Photo courtesy Springfield

OZARKSHEALTHCARE.COM

ummer is the perfect time of the year to get outdoors and cool off by the water. Ritter Springs is a great place to do so and is just northwest of the city limits. This park offers outdoor entertainment such as hiking, canoeing, floating and cave excursions where the community can educate themselves in nature through tagging along with an expert on a guided hike. Ritter Springs itself is located by Fulbright Spring Greenway. This is the trail that connects to Ritter Springs and is 7 miles long. Hikers can also choose a shorter venture by fallowing the loop that goes around the lake. An enjoyable way to spend the summer at Ritter Springs park is to dip your toes in the cool water and enjoy the sunshine or a picnic with a loved one. The 245-acre park offers ample places to spend some time kayaking and breathing in the fresh smell of summer sunscreen. Something you may not know about Ritter Springs is that it has 45 years of history tied to the Springfield community. A great way to explore this park is to sign up for guided nature walks, hikes and excursions through the park board’s website. Ritter Springs assists in helping the Springfield community get outdoors and enjoy nature whether it be sunbathing in the sunshine or reading under a shady tree.

DAY TR P

A First-Class Time... EVERY TIME.

Mining for Diamonds Spend a day outside at Crater of Diamonds State Park to dig through an ancient volcano and find a bit of treasure.

Photo courtesy Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage & Tourism

Gaston’s. America’s #1 trout fishing resort is legendary, luring anglers from coast to coast

BY MICHELLE LEWIS

etting your hands dirty is not the reason most people visit state parks, but Crater of Diamonds (209 State Park Rd., Murfreesboro, Arkansas; 870-285-3113) holds an outdoor experience unlike any other. Here, visitors can search for real diamonds throughout a plowed 37.5-acre field on the surface of a formerly volcanic crater. Hidden in the soil are white, brown and yellow diamonds. Alongside these diamonds, you can also find a wide variety of other minerals such as amethyst, jasper and agate. Visitors have the option to rent equipment from the park or can choose to bring non-battery or non-motor operated equipment to assist in their search. You, of course, can also choose to search through the land with just your eyes and hands. The diamond searching area is occasionally plowed to soften the soil and allow diamonds to be found more easily both with and without tools. Anything that is found at Crater of Diamonds is yours to take home, no matter the size or type of diamond or mineral. Since Crater of Diamonds became a state park, over 33,000 diamonds have been found. This includes the Uncle Sam, the largest diamond that has ever been found in the United States. The experts who work at the park offer free identification and certification to all visitors who locate any minerals. The outdoor adventure at Crater of Diamonds doesn’t end at the diamond searching area.

There’s one name in trout fishing, and it is

for the ultimate White River experience.

The state park holds a handful of walking trails that wind through the woods and allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of Arkansas. While traveling the trails you can witness a firsthand view of the unique land features like rock outcroppings that are uncommon for this area of the state. Along one of the peaceful hiking trails, you can also cast a line on the Little Missouri River. Another trail gives you the chance to explore the wildlife that calls Crater of Diamonds home and encourages hikers to use their senses to be immersed in nature. The park has something for every visitor that wants to experience the attraction of Arkansas scenery, even a trail that is the longest wheelchair-accessible trail in Southwest Arkansas. To top off the experience the park also offers picnic sites, campsites and even a seasonal water park to its visitors.

Come fish in style and comfort as part of the Gaston’s family. • FIRST-CL ASS GUIDE SERVICE • LODGING • ONE OF THE SOUTH’S FINEST RESTAURANTS • PRIVATE CLUB • TENNIS COURTS • SWIMMING POOL • NATURE TRAILS • CONFERENCE LODGE • L ANDING STRIP FOR FLY-IN GUESTS

Discover the Legacy

GETTING THERE Head south on Highway to Murfreesboro, Arkansas. At five hours, the drive can be a bit of a trek. Break up your trip by stopping in Jasper on the way for a meal or to take one of the many gorgeous hikes in the area. Or make it an overnight trip by jogging east to Hot Springs for the evening.

1777 River Road, Lakeview, AR 72642 870-431-5202 • Email gastons@gastons.com Lat 36° 20’ 55” N Long 92° 33’ 25” W

Gastons.com

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BLINDS ETC

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Laura Hoff, Dee Conn, Dana Smith

indow treatments are a necessary part of every home. But they provide so much more than privacy! With the help of the professionals at Blinds Etc, they can showcase the interior of your home by adding color, pattern, texture and light control. There are many options to consider, and Blinds Etc is here to help. They offer free in-home consultations; just call to set up your appointment! Dee Conn, Dana Smith and Laura Hoff are experts in the field of window treatments and would love to assist in selecting design ideas for your home or office. Their experience spans more than 30 years, and they will offer you the best plantation shutters, blinds, roman shades, draperies and more to suit your needs. Because of their decades

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of expertise, they can recommend the products that would work the best with the architecture of your windows, the style of your rooms and, most importantly, your budget. Their guidance doesn’t end there. If you’re looking for motorization solutions for your windows, inside or out, they can guide you through the process on any window treatment you choose. From consultation to installation, the Blinds Etc team is there throughout the process to ensure customer satisfaction.

417-883-4499 | blindsetc-spfd.com 1446 E. Republic Road | Springﬁeld

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BROOKLINE DOORWORKS

n a world where lead times on materials are delayed for months and skilled installation crews with immediate availability are hard to come by, Brookline Doorworks takes pride in doing their best to get all your needs met and ready for service by the next day whenever possible. Brookline Doorworks has been a staple in the Ozarks for the last 30 years and counting. If you are looking for someone you can trust to install or service residential and commercial garage doors, you will want to learn more about this family owned and operated business. Brookline Doorworks is IDEA certified and owned by local residents Kevin and Christine Howell. Need a technician to fix your current overhead door? They are available 24/7 for your emergencies and offer same day service most days.

Brookline Doorworks offers a wide variety of overhead door products from the industry’s leading manufacturers. Visit their showroom in Springfield, MO where you can see your new garage door imposed over a photo of your own home or even take home samples if you would like to see them in your location’s lighting!

417-883-3667 | brooklinedoorworks.com 308 W. Lakewood St. | Springﬁeld

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CABINET CONCEPTS BY DESIGN

att and Shelley Wehner opened Cabinet Concepts by Design 14 years ago. They’re a remarkable company, because there’s literally nothing cookie cutter about what they do. When they create custom cabinets, closets and moldings for homes in 417-land, they utilize the top trends and best construction practices. Of course it helps that their entire design team is trained on spatial planning, so they truly understand how to make the best use of a home’s space. Clients agree that Cabinet Concepts by Design is easy to work with, with a friendly and talented team, and that they provide a quality product with wonderful service. They’re members of the HBA, SDA, CMA (Cabinet Makers Association) and the NKAB (National Kitchen and Bath). They’re also never afraid to think outside the box and try new things.

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Matt & Shelley Wehner

When cabinets are designed correctly, homeowners should be able to maximize function and storage in a way that fits their lifestyle. Cabinet Concepts by Design can bring a concept to creation through beautiful 3D renderings prior to production. This way, everyone involved with the project has the opportunity to visualize the final execution, understand how it will function for the homeowners and sign off on the plan with excitement!

417-725-3400 cabinetconceptsbydesign.com 4123 N. State Highway H | Springﬁeld

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THE CARPET SHOPPE

hen The Carpet Shoppe opened its doors in 1970, Dale Pearce promised customers service beyond their expectations. They’re still delivering on that promise today, over 50 years later, under the leadership of Kent Schnurbusch. The Carpet Shoppe is proud to be Springfield’s most trusted local flooring store offering high-quality products. From their iconic red and white striped awnings to their 30,000-squarefoot showroom facility, their local presence and dedication to exceptional customer service are impossible to miss. They are a one stop shop for designing and installing all of your flooring and tile needs. When you visit The Carpet Shoppe, you are introduced to a large variety of products including carpet, hardwood, waterproof flooring, laminate, tile and area rugs.

Front row: Rebecca Flynn, Autumn Reese, Nicole Tobin, Tina King, Karen Ruwwe; Back row: David Boreliz, Burton Mullins

Whether you know exactly how you want your space to look or need the help of a designer, they can guide you through the process. They have an experienced design team to help you create the change that you are looking for in your home, office or facility. Free estimates are part of their quality service, as well as an experienced installation team that makes the installation process worry free. Your project deserves exceptional service, attention to detail and the timeless quality you’ve grown to count on for more than 50 years from The Carpet Shoppe.

417-883-6455 | thecarpetshoppe.com 1827 E. Seminole St. | Springﬁeld

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CLEAR CREEK GOLF CAR & UTILITY VEHICLES

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Justin Fraker, Ann Mezo, Brian Cheever

in the Midwest. For 40 years and counting, they’ve been

Powersports to the family, located in the former Youngblood Powersports location at US 65 and CC in Ozark. Clear Creek Powersports offers Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki motorcycles,

known for their after-sale service and customer-first focus. You

dirt bikes, ATVs, and side-by-sides, plus service, parts,

can be confident that your purchase with Clear Creek is backed

accessories and apparel as well as the same upfront pricing and

by the friendliest and most experienced service and support team. From high-end luxury options with all the bells and whistles to low-cost options for any budget, find the golf car or utility vehicle to fit your needs, both on and off the course. You can shop online to browse their inventory or even build your own at clearcreekgolfcar. com. You can also visit any of their six conveniently located dealerships across Missouri and Arkansas. Clear Creek Golf Car offers sales, service, parts, accessories and rentals at each of their locations. They also make things simple by offering both pick-up and delivery. Continuing to grow, they recently added Clear Creek

no hidden fees. If you’re looking for the best golf car, utility vehicle or powersport around, the choice is clear: Clear Creek Golf Car.

lear Creek Golf Car & Utility Vehicles offers the largest selection of new and used golf cars and utility vehicles

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EDGE SUPPLY

dge Supply is in the business of transformation. Whether it’s a custom home or simply a new sink faucet, Edge Supply has the parts and professionalism to bring transformation to how you live. After all, they’re your go-to plumbing store! Experience is what makes the difference. This familyowned company has been in business since 1946 serving both contractors and homeowners throughout Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. Staff at both the East Trafficway and South Campbell locations are serious about serving customers and meeting their needs. In fact, they have more than 100 combined years of experience! They’ll bridge the gap between homeowners and plumbing contractors, and even offer installation advice to do-it-yourselfers.

Find the latest styles at Edge Supply. Whatever your project style or budget may be, they have countless options to make your dream bath or kitchen a reality. Their products range everywhere from essential to astounding! Edge Supply’s showrooms spark the imagination, and their warehouses are stocked deep and high with even the hardest-to-find products—the kind of items that most places have to special order. Edge Supply is all about making customers happy and building lasting relationships. After all, at Edge Supply, it’s all about how you live.

417-862-7082 | edgesupply.com 1920 E. Trafﬁcway | 5665 S. Campbell Springﬁeld

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ELLECOR DESIGN & GIFTS

f you’ve been meaning to get over to the very trendy South Pickwick Avenue and make a day of visiting its hyper-local shops, restaurants and bars—be sure to pen a date on the calendar and include Ellecor in your itinerary. Walking into their location is like walking into the home you’ve always promised yourself you were not only capable of pulling together but also deserving to live in. They describe themselves as “cozy, crisp and eclectic,” and that’s precisely right. The vibe reflects their amazing options, which can be completely customized to your tastes, whether you’re building a new home or upgrading your current space. They take care of all the details! Haden and Brady Long established Ellecor to provide interior design, furniture and home decor with a focus on livable, comfortable design that caters to families and everyday life. They

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Robbie Moncrief, Gabe Jackson, Haden Long

describe themselves as “regular people” who are able to make spaces usable and beautiful, but their extreme level of talent disqualifies them from the category of “regular.” They’re friendly, relatable and fabulous to work with! Both of their designers are graduates with degrees in interior design, and their portfolio is filled with example after example of transformations of dream spaces for everyday living. Visit today!

417-720-2602 | ellecordesign.com 623 S. Pickwick Ave. | Springﬁeld

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MONTICELLO CUSTOM HOMES & REMODELING Riley Strickland, Jason Bekebrede

uild with confidence when you choose Monticello Custom Homes and Remodeling. Owner Jason Bekebrede has a track record of excellence as a past president and current member of the Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield, a Certified Building Professional and Certified Green Professional. He has spent the past 18 years perfecting his smooth process of building a custom home or remodeling your existing one. He works very closely with the best trades and vendors in the area and is constantly gaining education in an ever-changing industry. Monticello stands out from the competition by their systematic approach to each project. From foundation to finished product, all details are well thought out. Each decision that goes into a project is planned for in advance, which leads to a smoother building process, better results and happier homeowners. Monticello’s work can be seen on social media and garners raves from fans and other building professionals from around the globe.

The Team at Monticello Custom Homes and Remodeling knows that you have a choice when it comes to who you allow to come into your home, and your budget, for a project, and that is not a trust they take lightly. Some projects take months to a year or more to complete, so a strong relationship with good communication and transparency is key. The mission of Monticello Custom Homes & Remodeling is to be good stewards of the buyers’ resources and the environment, but at the same time to push the limit on ideas, design and functionality. Call 417-416-4497 to start the conversation.

417-416-4497 homesbymonticello.com

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OBELISK HOME

PROMOTION

Colby Kern, Nicole Fuller, Skylar Sieger, Nathan Taylor, Maddie Sprenger, Toni Echols and Landon Enlow

esigning your home to fit your standards of perfection can be stressful, so let Obelisk Home tackle the stress for you. Obelisk Home provides professional design services from initial concept planning, budgeting and construction consultation to executing all phases of the interior design process. Whether a personally tailored residence or an inspired commercial space, the common thread through their work is the artful, sensitive approach they take to the tenets of unique design. With over 20 years of design expertise, Principal Designer Nathan Taylor and his team are known for giving architecturally traditional homes a youthful energy and sophistication by mixing periods, styles and moods, bringing an eclectic mix to their projects. As an incubator for the designer’s genius and a showcase for style, trend and what’s new and next, Obelisk Home has become

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a favored community gathering spot for both retail shopping and design projects—large and small. Their dedication to the home furnishing industry is never stagnant but increasingly difficult to contain. So, they continually evolve in order to support and facilitate the way people design, plan and purchase for their homes today. Obelisk Home knows they are at their best when helping their discerning clientele do the same. They invite you to join them, if not in person, then at ObeliskHome.com.

417-616-6488 | obeliskhome.com 214 W Phelps Suite 101 | Springﬁeld

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TITAN TITLE & CLOSING OF MISSOURI LLC Left to right: David Climer, Dawn Petersen, Natalie Castaneda, Erin Davis, Melissa Tate, Melinda Heard, Christina “Sam” Baird, Tyler Johnson, Laura Thomason, Sabrina Weldon, Ashley Gerleve, Nick Baird, Ana Ortez, Anna Standnikov

s a full-service escrow company in Missouri, Titan Title & Closing of Missouri, LLC merges experience, a dedicated team and innovative technology solutions to offer clients peace of mind with their escrow transactions. Titan Title offers full-service escrow services to 417-land. Their agents possess a wealth of technical experience and knowledge of how to assure a smooth closing each and every time. Whether a client is searching for a residential escrow agent, buying a new home, looking for a commercial escrow agent or considering refinancing, Titan Title has the experience to set their mind at ease. They have been operating for 14 years and are known in the community for listening to each client and responding to their needs. They believe that it’s vitally important for every customer to know what is on their property to prevent issues that can

potentially delay or prevent a transaction from being completed. Titan Title is committed to offering their clients the most comprehensive suite of escrow services available, including: Residential Resale; New Home Sales; Manufactured Homes; Commercial/Industrial Real Estate; Investment Properties/1031 Exchange; Business Opportunities; Refinances; Relocations and Real Estate Owned (REO).

417-882-2100 | titantitlemo.com 1901 S. Ventura Ave. Suite C | Springﬁeld

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TLC PROPERTIES

PROMOTION

Ime Usukumah

or 34 years, TLC Properties has made a name for itself in I truly enjoy the synthesis of art and the technical aspects of 417-land. The property management company, which is construction,” Usukumah says. “That combination, along with the a part of Coryell Collaborative Group (CCG), is known for company’s core values, is why I joined this team.” Usukumah’s current project, Heritage, is CCG’s most its upscale apartment communities throughout the Ozarks. CCG strives for excellence not only with its projects, but also its innovative property to date. The Heritage project is currently under people. Core values of excellence, integrity, biblical principles, construction at the corner of Fremont and Battlefield in Springfield. With 25 years of experience, Usukumah knows every project unbridled service, generosity and stewardship guide CCG daily. In 2022, seasoned architect Ime Usukumah joined the group’s comes with its own complexities and Heritage isn’t any different. construction division, Team C Construction, LLC, as an architect/ “The biggest challenge right now is the economic volatility due owner’s representative. In this role, Usukumah works with owner(s) to inflation and supply chain delays,” Usukumah says. “Both and consultants in the development of properties to ensure that contribute to higher costs and availability of construction materials.” the projects meet design and construction expectations and However, Usukumah is confident in handling these challenges with the support of the team and depth of his experience. standards. “I’ve always been interested in the design of buildings, but 417-869-1118 | tlcproperties.com 3811 S. Weller Ave. Suite A-101 | Springﬁeld

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UNIQUE TILE

ince 1988, Unique Tile has been a locally owned wholesale distributor of designer-oriented tile and stone. They strive to set the standards for style and design to meet the demands of their clients, both residential and commercial. Their expert staff travel the globe in order to personally select each tile series, which enables them to present the latest that the tile industry has to offer. Unique Tile’s evolving showroom is open to the trade and features a vast array of products, with over 480 stock tile SKUs and all of the tools and installation products that are needed for installation. The Stone Gallery at Unique Tile is the only local full granite fabrication facility in the area that is accredited by the Natural Stone Institute. Unique Tile’s established team members have

decades of experience in the stone industry and are poised to fabricate any project. Quality products, attention to detail and exceptional customer service are all traits that have helped Unique Tile gain the loyalty of their clients over the past 32 years. Get to know them online by browsing their website at uniquetile.com and order through a professional near you.

417-725-5515 | uniquetile.com 1364 Kelly Ave. | Nixa

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AMERICAN GLASS American Glass is your one-stop source for high quality fabricated glass. American Glass was founded in 1978 in Springfield. They specialize in the fabrication and distribution of monolithic and insulated glass, custom heavy glass fabrication and fabricated and stock sheet mirror, along with hardware and metal for both commercial and residential applications. Their fabrication plant is equipped with state of the art machinery, equipment and software. This allows them to control the timeliness and quality of each client’s project requirements and continue following their mission of providing the highest quality fabricated glass and service in the industry.

417-866-8361 | americanglassinc.com 2801 N. Le Compte Rd. | Springﬁeld

BUDGET BLINDS Looking to revitalize your living space without raiding your savings? Budget Blinds of SW Missouri can help. With over 30 years of experience in providing personalized customer service, unique design and expert installation—plus a noquestions-asked warranty—Budget Blinds offers the best quality products and styles to suit any budget. Budget Blinds of SW Missouri has a design team with an eye for personal style, plus access to the best in blinds, shades, shutters and more to complement any kind of interior decor. Stop by the Budget Blinds of SW Missouri design centers in Nixa and Branson, call 417-633-7922 or visit budgetblinds.com/ swmissouri today.

Charles & Diana Doan, Owners >

417-633-7922 | budgetblinds.com/swmissouri

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CONCRETE ENHANCEMENTS Concrete doesn’t have to be gray anymore! There are so many possibilities to consider with Concrete Enhancements. They can help you elevate your concrete’s appearance with coloring, stamping, staining and sealing. They can even create borders and designs to make your project unique. Set the foundation for your perfect patio’s fire pit, hot tub, outdoor kitchen and entertaining area. In business since 1991, Concrete Enhancements is licensed, is a proud member of the Home Builders Association and has an A+ rating with the BBB. They put a strong emphasis on quality, workmanship and customer satisfaction. They invite you to view their recently completed projects online.

417-830-2060 | concreteenhance.com Springﬁeld

CONSTRUCT Construct’s approach to residential and commercial construction is simple: They listen to you. Construct approaches every general contracting project as if it were their own. Founder and President Rex Winslow enjoys mixing great designs with great construction and bringing them to life. Simply stated, Construct follows through and gets the job done. Their main focus is in contracting commercial buildings, land development and constructing large custom homes. Their benchmarks are communication, attention to detail and staying on schedule within budget. It is always Construct’s priority to build lasting relationships with clients and to act as their advocate during the building process. Construct would like to listen to your ideas, goals and expectations for your future project—contact them today!

construct-com.com | 417-582-4290

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ETHEL CURBOW It’s hard to outshine Ethel Curbow’s reputation for excellence in 417-land real estate. Along with her AMAX team, she’s made a name for herself in the industry, listing and selling residential and land properties over the past 30 years. She brings plenty of experience to the table, and customers are floored that she always answers her phone. Ethel keeps clients informed, markets their properties in every kind of media and has a great track record of success—that leads to many satisfied past clients. The Curbow team is knowledgeable, experienced, hard-working and ready to help you with your real estate needs!

Kristi Williams, Ethel Curbow, Nick Jackson, Ashley Morrison, Sue Burkemper >

417-447-4968 | ecurbow@aol.com ethelcurbow.com

FIVE STAR PAINTING Five Star Painting’s local owners, Doug and Andrea Windsor, understand the importance of paint and the impact color has on your home's exterior and interior. They believe in providing the highest quality work and professionalism to every homeowner, which includes showing respect for your home. They have an eye for detail, only use premium products and guarantee their work with a two-year warranty. Five Star is happy to provide a detailed project estimate, complimentary with no obligation. These are typically provided on-site… they’ll come to you at your convenience—evenings and weekends included! A fresh application of superb paint with Five Star can make all the difference! Doug and Andrea Windsor >

417-720-2376 | ﬁvestarpainting.com

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GREAT SOUTHERN BANK Buying a home is one of the most significant purchases you will make and choosing a mortgage professional you trust is a critical part of the home buying experience. It’s essential to work with professionals you can count on to deliver awardwinning customer service. With the Great Southern Bank Residential Lending team, you’ll have great experience, fresh ideas and reliable guidance on your side. Great Southern Bank offers an expansive banking network and online applications – allowing you to apply for a home loan when and how you prefer. Find their entire team at greatsouthernbank.com/mortgage-lenders.

< (Left to Right) Stephanie Sweet, Chet Blackburn, Patti Bloxom, Bob Worthy, Lorrie Kleier 417-888-4370 greatsouthernbank.com/mortgage-lenders

LORENZ PLUMBING HEATING AND AIR Since 1978, Lorenz Plumbing Heating and Air has proven that they know what it takes to succeed in an industry where customer satisfaction is everything. Their goal is to provide excellent workmanship, consistent service and fair prices every day. Lorenz’s experienced technicians can help prepare your home for the upcoming season with a tune-up of your heating and cooling system and perform all the cleanings and calibrations it takes to keep your HVAC systems running reliably. Just a few of the reasons why we’re your friends at Lorenz. Call 417-863-1122 to enroll in their spring and fall maintenance plan!

< Lorenz Plumbing Heating and Air team

417-863-1122 | lorenzphac.com

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NIANGUA FURNITURE Discover the unique handcrafted dining tables, chairs, bedrooms and more of Niangua Furniture. Take a scenic drive in fresh country air to a place where they still believe in making furniture using only solid hardwoods with time tested craftsmanship. Heirloom quality Niangua Furniture is made from carefully kiln-dried native hardwoods and then crafted into beautiful, functional and sustainable furniture. In their 4,000-squarefoot showroom, you can choose from their design options, both rustic and classic, or have them create unique custom furniture just for you. Niangua Furniture is something different, something better.

417-993-1625 | nianguafurniture.com 344 State Road E | Tunas

ROCK SOLID RENOVATIONS Your home is your refuge, and it should reflect the things that are most important to you. This is the philosophy that has served Rock Solid Renovations for more than a quarter of a century. Their pride and passion manifest themselves in reimagining and discovering the unseen possibilities in their clients’ homes. Utilizing their team of in-house interior designers and craftsmen, they bring possibilities to life, making sure each home renovation is a unique echoing of the person who lives there. Rock Solid Renovations believes that updating your home should be an exciting process with results that speak for themselves.

Jana Lee, Shannon Lee, Jeremiah Lee >

417-581-8096 | buildrocksolid.com 4166 N. 20th St. | Ozark

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SIGNATURE INTERIOR EXPRESSIONS Have you seen the modern, clean looks from Signature Interior Expressions? They do so much more than countertops. Signature Interior Expressions is a family-owned business, well-known for being the local expert in granite and quartz countertops. They also specialize in flooring, sinks and faucets, and have much more available! You can see it all at their new facility in Neosho, where they’ve expanded to be triple in size, going from 25,000 square feet to 75,000! Signature Interior Expressions can help you design your signature style with updated looks, turning your dream home into your real home. Call today, and put your signature on it!

< Krista Lake

417-451-0535 | signaturexp.com 12650 Hammer Road | Neosho

SPRINGFIELD DESIGN ASSOCIATION Hiring a professional interior designer is the best way to ensure you get value for your investment. They know the sources for materials and trends that give your space the “wow factor” and are trained to help you make the right decisions. Discover what SDA can do for you and your space. The focus on superior quality and precision is matched by their commitment to delivering projects on schedule and budget. Projects range from minor interior updates to new residential construction, and they strive to provide the same standard of quality and care for every project, no matter the size or scope, through communication, organization and craftsmanship.

springﬁelddesignassociation.org

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Residential Pros TO KNOW

PROMOTION

SPRING-GREEN LAWN CARE AND TRIMWORKS LAWNCARE & IRRIGATION Spring-Green Lawn Care and partner Trimworks Lawncare & Irrigation, both locally owned by Jonathan Thurman, take care of your lawn the way that you would… if only you had the time! They are your neighborhood lawn care professionals, providing healthy, weed-free lawns, landscapes and irrigation services since 1997. Caring for lawns in 417-land requires skill, knowledge and experience, as well as reliable, regular attention. They provide a personalized service plan that is unique to each customer, so that your individual lawn goals can be met. Forget the hassle during the hottest parts of the year. For a lush and healthy lawn, contact them today! Jonathan Thurman > 417-368-0591 | 417-886-5740 spring-green.com | trimworkslawncare.com 3328 E. Linwood St. | Springﬁeld

SS&B HEATING & COOLING When working with SS&B Heating & Cooling, you can expect professional service and a no-pressure sales approach. Since every home is unique, they custom fit a system to address your home’s needs, rather than taking a “one size fits all” approach. Service calls are performed at a flat rate, meaning you know how much the repair will cost before it’s done. They even offer a lifetime guarantee on workmanship. If they make a mistake, they will fix it for free—period. It’s all part of SS&B’s exceptional customer service. For your home’s heating and cooling needs, choose the business with the most trusted reputation in 417-land: SS&B Heating & Cooling.

Owner Jeremy Grisham and his sons >

417-866-0990 | SSBHC.com 2607 W. Bennett St. | Springﬁeld

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Cue the ’cue 76

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photographed by LEAH STIEFERMANN

written by Juliana Goodwin

Read about John Winkert on p. 84

From Texas-style brisket and Memphis ribs to our own mouthwatering Ozarks-style barbecue, we’ve got it all. Our region’s barbecue personality is growing, so we created a guide to help you navigate the meaty world of 417-land ’cue. 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

“He calls his style a crash between Memphis and Kansas City.”

CROSSTOWN BARBECUE

SMOKIN’ BOBS

1331 E. ivision St., Springﬁeld, 417-862-4646, rosstownb rbe ue. o This Kansas City style barbecue oint has been a staple in Springfield since 1970. It was started by Jesse Williams, who did not have a background in this style of grub but did have a knack for it. Jesse Williams was an excavator in Kansas City. He was looking for a new business opportunity and someone was selling a “turn the key operation,” says his son Steve Williams. Jesse bought it, learned how to smoke meat and commuted between Springfield and Kansas City for a couple of years sleeping on a cot in the restaurant before finally moving to the Queen City. Steve started working at the restaurant in 1981, while he was attending Drury University. He took over the business in 1984 and has been running it ever since, carrying on the family legacy. That legacy includes juicy, perfect meats smoked over green hickory using a combination of direct heat and indirect heat. Trying the baby back and spare ribs are a must, and the brisket and pulled pork are also best sellers among Crosstown customers. Still growing after all these years, they opened a food truck last September at 3850 S. Campbell Ave.

3309 E. Sunshine St., Ste. E., 417-720-4925; 2100 W. Republic Road Suite 100, 417-771-5200, smokinbobsbbq.com Bob Craver had been passionate about barbecue for two decades. He’d smoke meat in his backyard and invite friends and family over to savor the smoky goodness. Then, in 2013, he left the insurance industry to start a food truck and his meats, especially his juicy brisket and burnt ends, sold out daily. That was the impetus to open a brick and mortar on Sunshine Street in 2015. Four years later, a location on Republic Road followed. He wanted more smoker space so he could expand his catering business, and it worked. Craver makes his own rubs, sauces and sides. He calls his style a crash between Memphis and Kansas City, but really he just created his own style. The brisket and pork are smoked 16 to 20 hours. Then the burnt ends are seasoned again and smoked another two hours. Since day one, Craver has kept the menu simple because the meat is the star—and he’s passionate about quality. Whatever you buy is fresh that day.

The Extras: The barbecue sauces are made in house and are for sale. Choose from regular or spicy.

The Extras: Makes four homemade sauces: sweet, spicy, original and mustard.

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BIG D’S BBQ “Dana Peterson doesn’t follow one style of barbecue but has a peppering of favorites.”

1550 Missouri 248, Branson, 417-337-5100, bigdsbbqbranson.com Dana Peterson is driven by passion, smoke and creativity. He’d been competing on the barbecue circuit and decided to dive into his passion in 2017 when he left his career in the financial industry to open a food truck. A year later, he had a location inside the Starlite Theatre in Branson. The following year, he opened a brick and mortar, which has become a destination restaurant. What makes this place different is Dana doesn’t follow one style of barbecue but has a peppering of favorites—and he and his wife, Linda, travel the world to find ideas that they incorporate into their menu. The ribs are Memphis-style, slow cooked over cherry wood. His brisket is Texas-style smoked over pecan wood with a dry rub. And the pork is Carolina style. He’s won the Best of Branson award in the barbecue category four years in a row every year they’ve been in business. They offer si fun specials each week, such as brisket gumbo or their BeefyChanga, a chimichanga made with brisket and smoked mac ‘n’ cheese, topped with smoked queso and pit beans. Still have room for dessert after all that? Linda is known for her signature smoked bacon-bourbon pecan pie. The Extras: You can buy regular rub, brisket rub and sweet or bold barbecue sauces. Or buy a box with a combo of sauces and rub. MA .COM

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PAPPY’S PLACE 943 . in Ave., Springﬁeld, 417-368, facebook.com/pappysplacecafe This neighborhood gem is one of the oldest restaurants in Springfield. While the location has been a business since 1903, starting as a grocery store, it became a cafe in 1926. The barbecue has been going strong since 1971. Over the years, Pappy’s has had several owners, including the latest, Wayne and Susan Raider, who bought it in . The new owners have expanded the patio and transformed it into a popular live music venue on Friday nights. Regulars don’t ust come for tunes, though. They come for the juicy pulled pork and the ribs that are smoked over hickory. The St. Louis–style ribs are smoked for seven hours. “The meat ust falls off them,” says Wayne. The pulled pork sandwich is a hit, but so are the nachos topped with the shredded meat. They don’t follow a specific barbecue style, they just do what their hungry Ozarks fans have been loving for decades. The Extras: Barbecue sauces, traditional or southern style, for sale by the quart or pint. Rubs are for sale. Live music every Friday.

“Regulars come for the juicy pulled pork and the ribs that are smoked over hickory.”

GETTIN’ BASTED multiple locations in 417-land, gettinbasted.com Forget what you think you know about barbecue because low and slow does not apply here. Here, it’s fast and hot. Brad Leighninger has made a living revolutionizing the industry and a heck of a name for himself in the barbecue arena. Leighninger has taken home 50 grand championships including all the coveted crowns: World Champion at Memphis in May; twice named Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) Team of the Year; first place in Jack Daniels World Championship nvitational BBQ in pork and Reserve rand Champion at American Royal. As he brought home big wins, Leighninger and three friends started a food truck, then a restaurant, and ust kept growing. There are now locations in Branson, Ni a and Springfield, and they sell franchise opportunities. Here’s how this cooking method is different Leighninger cooks with high heat over 55-gallon drums using Missouri hardwood coals. The method has become known as Ozarks barbecue, with brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork and St. Louis–style ribs as standouts. The Extras: They have amazing sides including Poblano Cream Corn Brûlée. 80

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GREAT GRILLIN’ If you want to be the master of your grill, it starts with quality meat. Luckily, you can find succulent cuts and creations at one of the local butcher shops and area farmers markets.

Hörrmann Meats 1 37 W. ttleﬁeld o d, Springﬁeld, 417-886- 6328, horr nn e t. o Hörrmann Meats carries meat from local producers processed at their plant. This is the place to score a plethora (about 30) of hand-made sausages and bratwurst including unusual options like chicken andouille, gyro brat or Thai sausage. Schuchmann Meat Company 44 6 S. C pbell Ave., Ste. 1 ., 417-771- 339, 184 E. urner St., 417-4 9-3 36, s hu h nn e t. o Come here to shop for Wagyu beef, tomahawk steaks, veal chops and a selection of homemade burgers and brats, including black and blue burgers. They also sell seasonings, sauces and gourmet products.

BUBBA’S BBQ 4 . West yp ss, Springﬁeld, 417-368- 39, bubb so r bb . o n , friends Mike Egger and Brandon rame teamed up to open this Bubba’s BBQ. But for years before that, Grame and his grandfather had been involved with competitive barbecue. Today, the cooking style at Bubba’s BBQ is a blend of Te as and Kansas City because rame is originally from Kansas City. To achieve their signature avor, the two use hickory wood and smoke in small batches throughout the day and night. “It takes longer and is a headache, but it’s better,” says Egger. As pitmasters, Egger and rame work well together, speciali ing in baby back ribs and burnt ends. Egger also recommends trying their pulled chicken, which is moist and offers something different than your typical red meat favorites. The spot offers sandwiches too, and their signature offering is the Cowboy, featuring brisket, fried onion petals and pink lightning sauce. That’s a sweet house made sauce avored with a little horseradish and garlic. The Extras: Mild, spicy and gold sauces are bottled and for sale at Hy-Vee and Price Cutter. Meat available by the pound. Sides available by pint or quart to go.

Worden’s Meat Co. lo tions in Springﬁeld, oplin, Webb City, epubli nd r, wordens e t. o This is the spot to stock up for a big party or buy in bulk. There are great deals on ground beef, hamburgers, meat bundles and awesome weekly specials. Check Facebook for the latest deals and bundles. local farmers markets Markets like Farmers Market of the O arks, reater Springfield Farmers Market, Ozark Farmers Market and C-Street Market (plus many more!) offer locally raise meat from land producers, so you can support small while you grill big.

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“Tim Shelburn competed on the barbecue circuit and twice landed an invite to World Food Championships, the biggest gig of his career.”

FROM NOVICE TO INFLUENCER When Tim Shelburn started posting his dinners on Instagram, he didn’t know it would one

day lead him to the World Food Championships or to become a barbecue influencer. It started innocently enough when he got his first Big Green Egg in 2014. Like many owners, he was obsessed and started sharing the mouth-watering meats that came off the perfect cooker on social media.“I’ve always loved food and photography,” he says. A stint at Noble & Associates early in his career allowed him to watch food photoshoots. Soon, other guys who loved their Big Green Eggs started following him on social media, and they formed a friendship. One of those men lived in Atlanta and invited the group to get together at Big Green Egg Eggtoberfest. There, Shelburn mingled with competitive cooks, influencers and companies. He met Matt Pittman, who was on a barbecue show called BBQ Pitmasters, and Shelburn started promoting Pittman’s brand Meat Church. 82

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Shelburn competed on the barbecue circuit and twice landed an invite to World Food Championships, the biggest gig of his career. Soon he got a call from Kamado Joe, which is Big Green Egg’s biggest competitor. They offered him a free Kamado Joe, and before he knew it he had landed a sponsorship. Now Kamado Joe, Recteq and FOGO Charcoal are staples in his sponsorship network. As an influencer, Shelburn has a variety of jobs and receives payment in different ways. Payment can mean a shiny new grill or smoker—he has 14—or an array of free accessories, shipments of charcoal or good old-fashioned money. Shelburn may create a recipe for a brand, be involved in a social media takeover for their company or promote their product to his nearly 55,000 Instagram followers. He is currently not on a barbecue team, but fills in when a team asks. Shelburn recently attended Memphis in May to blow up social media for the event.“I try to attend as many events as I can,” Shelburn says.

follow him @tshelburn Keep up with Tim Shelburn on Instagram, where he’s always cooking up something delicious. Just don’t scroll on an empty stomach.

SKINNER’S RIBS & BBQ

HARD KNOX BBQ

US 60 and Farm Road 241, Rogersville, 417-753-2845, facebook.com/Skinnersbbq You might say Skinner’s was a pioneer in the food truck industry. n , Jeff Felton opened his food truck in a converted camper trailer, parked on land that’s been in the family for decades. Felton had always loved to smoke meat. Eventually enough people convinced him it would sell, and it did. He had one meat on the menu at first pulled pork. “And it evolved from there,” says his niece Deidre Dean, who bought the restaurant five years ago. Dean started working at Skinner’s when she was . She eventually went to culi nary school and worked in fine dining at Harvest and Touch, but she left to buy the family business. When she took over, Dean bought a new food truck and upgraded the smokers. She doesn’t follow any specific barbecue styles, ust does what she likes. Everything is smoked over oak, and she still uses her uncle’s rub recipe. The pulled pork is country style, so the butt is sliced into strips, which makes it a little dif ferent because the smoke avor can better permeate the meat. But Dean’s personal favorite is the brisket, although she sells a lot of baby back ribs. “ t was important for me to carry on the family legacy,” Dean says.

2931 E. ttleﬁeld o d, 417-72 -4811, h rd noxbb . o n , friends Tyler Thompson and Pat Duran went from compet itive barbecue team members to restaurant partners. Duran has a long history in the restaurant industry, fell in love with competition barbecue and decided to sell the smoked meats. They teamed up with Jeremy Smith, one of the founders of City Butcher, and Hard Kno BBQ was born. “We like to say we are doing O arks style barbecue,” says pit master Ale DeArmon. “O arks is a barbecue alley, so we take in uences from everybody and make it our own.” At Hard Kno , they use pecan and charcoal, which imparts a more delicate avor, so the meat still shines. The burnt ends, pulled pork and smoked chicken thighs are favorites. DeArmon says the key to their success is the consistency of working with a small team. They take a lot of pride in homemade sides too, like pit beans and street corn.

The Extras: All sides are homemade, and The potato salad and macaroni and cheese are favorites.

The Extras: Barbecue sauces and rubs for sale at the restaurant or Pits N Grills on East Sunshine.

MA .COM

417 MAGAZINE

FAT DADDY’S FAMILY BAR-B-QUE “I got hooked on it. I like meat, and I like to eat.” — John Winkert

16 2 S wy 16 , orsyth, 417- 46-46 4 John Winkert was a firefighter in Peculiar, Missouri, when he started taking part in barbecue competitions. “I got hooked on it,” he says. “I like meat, and I like to eat.” He competed several times in the former Rock N Ribs barbecue festival in Springfield, placing in the top . n , Winkert left his ob with the fire department to venture into the restaurant world. He is still a volunteer fireman in Forsyth, but he’s also the person behind Forsyth’s Fat Daddy’s Family Bar-b-que, where the barbecue staples are burnt ends and Texas-style brisket. Those are “to die for,” he says. They use fresh, never-frozen meat and they smoke with hickory wood. They even smoke prime rib, one of their most popular dishes served only on Friday nights. The restaurant is more than barbecue, though. It’s home cooking. Every side except the potato salad is homemade. The shoestring onion rings are customer favorites. Winkert developed his pit bean recipe in 1982 and has been using it ever since because it’s a hit. The restaurant serves breakfast too, featuring Winkert’s house-smoked bacon and sausage. They use that same bacon on the smoked bacon topped brownies. Even after 17 years in the business, Winkert still watches barbecue shows and gets excited about smoking meats. He has a partnership with a satellite food truck at Indian Point, the Uptown Hog at 2601 Indian Point Road, which sells his brisket and ribs. The Extras: Winkert makes his own rubs. The three barbecue sauces to choose from include sweet, mild and hot.

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FIND YOUR SAUCE Some local barbecue spots offer their homemade sauces in bottles. How do you know which special sauce you want to buy and bring home? Don’t worry. We can help. start here

CAN YOU HANDLE SOME SPICY HEAT? NEVER!

HECK YES! ARE YOU SURE?

DID I STUTTER?

DO YOU HAVE A SWEET TOOTH?

OKAY, MAYBE JUST A TINY BIT.

YOU BET I DO.

I HAVE A MUSTARD TOOTH.

DO YOU LIKE THE TANG OF VINEGAR?

spicy sauce ro rd nox Traditional sauce that brings the heat.

NOT MUCH.

signature sauce ro Gettin sted A classic with the perfect sweetness level.

IT’S MY FAVE.

2 original big & bold ro ig s Big ﬂavor with a hint of a spicy zip.

5 gold bbq sauce ro ubb s That mustardy North Carolina vibe.

sauce #4 ro Whole og C e A bit of southern spice and a vinegar tang.

CITY BUTCHER AND BARBECUE 36 S. C pbell Ave., 417-72 -1113 294 E. Sunshine St., 417-3 -1 19, Springﬁeld, itybut hersg . o Since 2014, City Butcher and Barbecue has been known for its Te as style barbecue, specifically the brisket, burnt ends and homemade smoked sausage. Customers can choose from Austin Andouille, Texas Hot Link, Jalapeño Cheddar and a seasonal sausage. Founders Cody Smith and Jeremy Smith worked in fine dining before opening this oint. Then the Sonnemaker family came in as silent partners to help with the business side and eventually bought the restaurant. But they still honor the original recipes and tradition. Meat is smoked in small batches and when it’s gone, it’s gone. For something different, try the mouth watering smoked turkey. They smoke over hickory and oak, and everything is homemade from the meats to the sauces. The barbecue sauce is the original recipe but it became tedious to make it in-house, so they gave the recipe to Ott’s to produce.

“Meat is smoked in small batches, and when it’s gone, it’s gone.”

The Extras: Buy their smoked meat by the pound to go. All sides are available to go in 8-ounce, 16-ounce, 32-ounce or larger catering sizes up to full pan. Try the jalapeño cheesy corn, beans or potato salad (all homemade).

2 2 S. C pbell Ave., Springﬁeld, 417-886-9979, bu ingh bb . o David Campbell, owner and pit master, had humble beginnings. In 1995, Campbell needed a job and was passionate about barbecue, so he rented a trailer and set it up to sell smoked meats. He called it BBQ o and quickly built a booming business. In 1996, a location on Campbell became available; he snagged it and has been there ever since. The restaurant has won the Best Barbecue category in various newspaper and magazine awards. But his coolest claim to fame is competing on a barbecue cookoff for the Travel Channel and taking home the $10,000 prize! “It was quite an experience,” he says. Ribs, burnt ends, beef brisket and pulled pork have kept people coming back from more than 25 years, and he smokes them using a blend of hickory for avor and oak for heat). And the horseradish slaw is legendary. Campbell credits an old friend for the recipe. The friend drove tour buses and was driving singer Barry White when they stopped at a restaurant in the South. The friend paid the cook $50 for the horseradish slaw recipe and shared it with Campbell. Campbell says it should be called the Barry White slaw. The Extras: Buckingham’s sauces are for sale at Hy-Vee. all Harter House locations and Price Cutter in Ozark sell their pit beans. 86

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Photo by Brandon Alms

BUCKINGHAM’S BBQ

HEADY BAR-B-QUE CO. 573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq.com Kevin Heady and his wife used to travel around to concerts selling their barbecue to hungry partygoers. It was a successful but exhausting gig. “We got tired of tearing down the tent,” he says. So, they decided to open a spot in Republic, and they’ve been in business since . The first venture was so popular, they had to expand to a larger location. Kevin runs the kitchen, and his wife runs the front of the house. Their style is a cross between Texas and Kansas City. Most of their meats are not sauced. The best-selling items are the brisket and pulled pork, both smoked 13 hours overnight. The meats are dressed in a homemade rub and he uses a combination of hickory and cherry to smoke the meats. There’s a nice selection of homemade sides including options you don’t see every day, like pea salad. They also have playful menu items like a brisket burrito and pulled pork quesadilla. The menu is extensive, and they’re even known for their deepfried pies in cherry, apple, lemon, pecan or chocolate. The Extras: Buy Heady’s barbecue sauce by pint or quart.

THE BEST OF THE REST Dig into the meaty goodness at one of these other super-tasty 417-land barbecue joints. Woody’s Smokehouse 25124 DeMott Dr., Joplin, 417-781-9800, woodysmo.com Don’t miss the: Texas-style brisket, which is dry rubbed and then smoked over oak. Big R’s BBQ & Pies 1220 E. 15th St., Joplin, 417-781-5959, bigrsbbq.com Don’t miss the: Ribs. The baby back ribs are massaged with homemade rub, smoked over hickory and served unsauced. Oscar’s Famous Ribs 302 Veterans Boulevard, Branson, 417-2947197, oscarsfamousribs.com Don’t miss the: Baby back ribs with a dry rub, smoked over hickory and oak. Ol’ Hickory Artisan Butchery & Premium Smokehouse 640 East 32nd Street, Joplin, 417-952-2117 facebook.com/olhickorymeats Don’t miss the: Brisket burnt ends that are smoked for 20 hours.

Pickin Porch Grill Branson Craft Mall, 694 Missouri Hwy. 165, Branson, 417-334-1223, facebook.com/pickinporchgrill Don’t miss the: Smoked pork tacos. Three corn tortillas are stuffed with uicy smoked pork topped with coleslaw, then drizzled in house made chipotle lime aioli and barbecue sauce. Brickstreet BBQ & Subs 206 N. 1st St., Ozark, 427 511-4113, facebook. com/brickstreetozark Don’t miss the: Ozark Cuban, all the classic elements of a Cuban: ham, smoked pork, pickles, cheese and spicy mustard served on a buttery, toasted hoagie. Boone’s BBQ Barn 5260 S. Scenic Ave., Bolivar, 417-326-7008, facebook.com/BoonesBBQBarn Don’t miss the: Pulled pork plate, which comes with two sides (hashbrown casserole is a must). The pork is smoked for 18 hours over hickory. Missouri Mikes BBQ and More 2833 W. Chestnut Expwy, Springﬁeld, 417-7715018, missourimikes.com/BBQandMore Don’t miss the: Burnt Ends, AKA Meat Candy. They use the point of the brisket because it has more marbling. It’s dry seasoned and slowly smoked.

Star Bar Grill 100 Fall Creek Dr., Branson, 417-320-5015, starbargrillbranson.com Don’t miss the: Taneycomo Trio: ¼ pound pulled pork; ¼ pound brisket; 3 St. Louis style ribs and two sides. Top with one of their seven sauces. Bourbon & Beale 2639 S. Glenstone Ave., Springﬁeld, bourbonandbeale.com Don’t miss the: Three meat combo: your choice of pulled pork (yes, please!), brisket (a must), barbecue chicken, smoked sausage, bone rib, fried shrimp, chicken tenders or fried fish. Danna’s Bar-B-Que & Burger Shop 963 Missouri Hwy 165, Branson, 417-337-5527, 15 Hope Way, Branson West, 417-272-1945, dannasbbq.com Don’t miss the: BBQ nachos with your choice of smoked meat (the pulled pork is awesome) served over crispy tortilla chips, with melted cheese, barbecue beans, alapenos and sour cream. Red Hot & Blue 2601 Rangeline Road, Joplin, 417-782-7427, redhotandblue.com/joplin-mo Don’t miss the: Tennessee Triple: 1/3 slab of ribs with your choice of two meats: pulled pork, pulled chicken, turkey, ¼ smoked chicken or sausage link.

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DEEP DISH DREAMS, 90 DEJA BREW, 92 BLACK AND BLEU, 95

holy

CANNOLI

Photos by Brandon Alms

You’ll want to save room for dessert at Carmine’s to devour the cannolis and tiramisu, the perfect end to the perfect Italian meal. Flip the page to read about more of their dishes.

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[ REVIEW ] TK

SECRET SAUCE

A little Italian restaurant in Joplin is serving some seriously good pizzas, pasta and more. BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES | PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS

The Caprese salad, Joe Pesto Pizza (New York Style), Formaggio pizza (Neapolitan Style), La’ Rughetta (Detroit-style pizza), baked ziti, cannolis and tiramisu are just a few of the dishes on the menu.

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REVIEW One of the many things Carmine’s is known for is their freshly scooped gelato.

The Formaggio (Neapolitan style) pizza is baked till perfection, with a crisp crunch on the outside of the crust and with a chewy, airy inside topped with fresh mozzarella, spinach and lemon.

hen a New York native tells us we really, really need to do a full review of Carmine’s Wood Fired Pizza in Joplin, we listen. Former staffer Danielle Giarratano knows New York flavors, and she said Carmine’s serves the best pizza she’s eaten in the Midwest. Pretty high praise! I was more than happy to dive in for a review, since half my family is made of pizza fanatics (my husband, Eli, and our son, Oliver) and the other half has a capital-P Pasta Problem (me and our daughter, Eloise). Carmine’s is unique in the sheer variety of pizza styles they offer. You can order Neapolitan pies, massive 16-inch New York–style pizzas and rectangle-shaped Detroit-style pizzas. There was no way we were going to visit without trying all three. But first, we started with a caprese salad. It was nothing fancy, but it was so fresh and satisfying with simple ingredients that just worked. Maybe I got lucky because I visited at the height of summer—or maybe it’s always this way—but the tomatoes were oh-so-sweet and delicious. For our Neapolitan pizza, we ordered the Formaggio, topped with rounds of fresh mozzarella, spinach and lemon. The crust was beautiful, chewy on the inside and slightly charred and crisp on the outside with a few airy little bubbles. I loved the simplicity of the toppings; I never in a million years would have thought to put lemon on my pizza, but holy moly it works. Every bite tasted bright and fresh. Next up was a New York–style pizza, with slices as huge, thin and foldable as you would want

a perfect pie to be. We ordered the Joe Pesto toppings: pesto sauce, mozzarella cheese, crumbled Italian sausage and fresh grape tomatoes. This one was a little bit on the greasy side for me, but the flavors were fantastic, and the acidity of those fresh tomatoes really helped too. I generally don’t enjoy pizzas with a thick crust, but I was excited to try the Detroit-style (thick, rectangular, super-bready) nonetheless because the menu describes its defining characteristic as “caramelized cheese that edges the pizza.” Can a person ever say no to caramelized cheese? Peeling off the crunchy cheese frill from around the pizza was so satisfying and so delicious. We ordered it with the La Rughetta toppings: mozzarella cheese, prosciutto, fresh tomatoes, olive oil, shaved Parmesan cheese and fresh arugula. Because of how thick and airy the crust was and the elevated toppings, I felt like I was eating dressed up focaccia rather than pizza. It was a totally different experience, and I really enjoyed it. Of the three types of pizza we tried, the Neapolitan was far and away my favorite—but that’s to be expected. It’s always my favorite. The other two styles didn’t disappoint, though. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed every single bready bite of that fat Detroit-style pie, and the New York–style was spot-on and tasted just like the slices I would grab when I lived in Manhattan. Speaking of New York nostalgia, we also ordered the baked ziti with sausage. It reminded me so much of dishes I ate and loved from quick little neighborhood takeaway spots. The tomato sauce was so bright and vibrant, and

M REVIE ORE W 417m S AT ag.co m

there was the perfect amount of creamy ricotta cheese alongside flavorful Italian sausage. Pasta is my Kryptonite, so I could not stop digging into this comforting dish. Carmine’s is also known for their calzones and stromboli—and freshly scooped gelato too, but we were way too full for dessert. We left feeling like the good food and super-casual atmosphere make Carmine’s a place for feasts— for a table full of a little of everything, to share with friends and family whose Pizza Predicaments and Pasta Problems are as big as yours.

The fresh ingredients in the caprese salad work together for a fresh and satisfying avor.

CARMINE’S WOOD FIRED PIZZA 524 S. Joplin Ave., Joplin 417-691-8523 carmineswoodfiredpi a.com

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TRY THIS

[ YUM OF THE MONTH ]

TRUFFLE SASHIMI

from Kai, 306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, kaiafterdark.com

THE FISH

A colorful mix of tuna, Hamachi and salmon

THE POP

Tobiko for that perfect little burst of texture

THE SAUCE

Big avors with black tru es, chili oil and ponzu sauce

[ FLAVOR FRIENDS ]

taste of

[ EASY EATS ]

CUBA

JOE ON THE GO

Cuban sandwiches—filled will mojo pork, pickles, mustard and more on pressed Cuban bread—are having a moment again, popping up on great menus around town. Here are a few of the ones that deserve some love.

C R

Tacos El Champu Find a Mexican torta here for a unique take on traditional Cuban sammy toppings. 92

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T C E thecoffeeethic.com Remedy Cold Brew Blend

Country Girls Espresso It’s massive, and it’s perfectly pressed with all the good stuff roasted pork, ham, Swiss, pickles and mustard. La Habana Vieja This Cubano features both gouda and raclette for an extra-cheesy experience, plus housemade pickles.

D M R melancholyroasting.com Treehouse Blend medium roast

K C kingdomsgf.com Brazil Sitio Dois Irmãos single-origin

 The Sandwich Scene

Their Tampa Cubano is packed with mojo pork, ham and salami (so meaty!). D’Vine Delicatessen Smoked ham and mojo pork join pickles, Swiss and mustard for a classic take.

N C C nocoastcoffee.com Sumatra Aged Aceh

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, Brandon Alms, courtesy Shutterstock

Want locally brewed coffee at home? These local shops offer delivery.

Revel in

the details

1933 Auburn 12 Cylinder

Check out over 80 classics/sports cars and visit our gift shop 7 days a week!

1634 W. College, just west of Kansas Expressway in Springfield 66carmuseum.com 417-861-8004

Join our award-winning choreographers and professional dance instructors in pursuing the love of dance in a positive, nurturing environment!

Now enrolling Summer Workshops ages 3 –18 VIP Competitive Dance Team ages 3 –18 Fall Classes ages 18 months and up

417.818.2339 (call or text) | studio3danceacademy@gmail.com 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

TRY THIS [ NEWS BITE ]

[ DRINK OF THE MONTH ]

summer

NIGHTS

n my old age, with two kids at home, and with a social life that leans more “board games with friends” than “wild parties,” I’ve become a lightweight. I occasionally enjoy a stout cocktail as much as the next person, but I find myself preferring drinks that fall more in the refreshing category. That’s why I am so deeply in love with the supremely sippable Daredevil Quilted Lemonade from Harvest Restaurant (8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville, harvestmo.com). It’s only a tiny bit sweet, made with Ozark Mountain Daredevils Ozark Dry Gin, fresh thyme, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, club soda and a slice of gin-soaked lemon. It was the perfect sip during an anniversary dinner with my husband, Eli, as we enjoyed a cool night breeze blowing in off the Sunshine Valley Farm apple orchard as we dined on the restaurant’s screened-in porch. (Screened in means all the Ozarks charm, none of the Ozarks mosquitoes.) And we’ll be back for more. —Katie Pollock Estes

Hawaiana torta and camaron taco (shrimp) with a grapefruit soda.

TACOS ALL THE TIME One of Springfield’s favorite food trucks, I Love Tacos Taqueria, now has a brick-and-mortar shop so you can enjoy those perfect bites indoors too. BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

[ WORTH IT ]

Every. Single. Bite.

Photos by Leah Stiefermann

his month, revisit a classic with me. The bleu cheese chips from The Grotto (301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, gogrotto. com) have been one of my favorite appetizers for years, but I hate to admit that I sort of forgot about them for a sec. But on a recent visit to The Grotto with my family, my husband and I ordered those amazing chips “for the table” (even though we knew the kids wouldn’t touch them, and they’d be all ours). And they’re just as indulgent and delicious as ever. The super-crunchy chips are topped with both bleu cheese crumbles and bleu cheese dressing, and The Grotto is not stingy. Every single chip, every single bite, every single morsel is absolutely coated with the good stuff. It’s a cheese-lover’s dream, and one I won’t be forgetting again.—Katie Pollock Estes

Love Tacos Taqueria has quickly grown into a local favorite, with trucks slinging tacos at both 430 Broadview Place and 2930 E. Kearney St. Now they’ve opened up a permanent store at 2724 E. Chestnut Expy.—perfect for those of us who prefer to take our taco lunch with a side of air conditioning. We recommend making a surf-andturf themed meal by ordering both a camaron taco (with shrimp and a homemade chipotle sauce) and an asada taco (filled with juicy steak). One thing we love about this taco shop is that they don’t stop at tacos. There are a handful of other delish items on the menu that have us drooling, like the birria sope (we’re suckers for both birria and any kind of sope), tender pork tamales and a handful of Mexican sandwiches, like the Hawaiana torta filled with ham, cheese, pineapple and grilled onions. So when you’re giving this taco joint a try, order a bottle of Jarritos to sip, and dig in! 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

PROMOTION

The

Plate Signature dishes from local Culinary Pros

Shrimp & Grits

Aviary by Lavender Falls Cafe 2144 E. Republic Road | Springfield 417-881-9736 | aviarycafe.com

Frisco Heights Melt Ebbets Field Sports Bar & Patio 1027 E Walnut St. Springfield | 417-865-5050 ebbetssgf.com

417 MAGAZINE • 417MAG.COM

PROMOTION

Jhon’s Sashimi Platter Kai 306 S. Campbell Ave. Springfield | 417-832-0077 kaiafterdark.com

Salmone Ramata Italian 1201 Branson Landing Boulevard | Branson 417-231-9559 | ramataitalian.com

Pan Seared Ahi Tuna

Dimsum platter

Level 2 Steakhouse 200 E. Main St. | Branson 417-243-3433 | level2steakhouse.com

Leong’s Asian Diner 1540 W. Republic Road | Springfield 417-887-7500 | leongsasiandiner.com

417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

PROMOTION

Rib and Smoked Chicken Plate Gettin’ Basted 606 W. Mt. Vernon St., Nixa | 417-374-7394 2845 76 Country Boulevard, Branson | 417-320-6357 3242 S Stewart Ave., Springfield | 417-427-4181 gettinbasted.com

Mayflower Sushi Boat

Sushi Village 1440 W. Republic Road, Suite 120 Springfield | 417-890-1016

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S.S. Wafflebird Morning Day Cafe 105 S. Main St. Nixa | 417-494-5055 morningdaycafe.com

BBQ Nachos Fuel Fresh American Grill 3405 76 Country Boulevard Branson | 417-337-1786 fuelbranson.com

417

DINING

GUIDE Restaurant Listings, 100 7 Good Things, 103

[ LISTINGS KEY ] $=Under $$ Mostly $$$ and up B serves breakfast L serves lunch D serves dinner outdoor seating V live music

M meeting space

serves alcohol

smoke free ☎ = reservations

recommended wheelchair

accessible

WIFI

free wifi K offers kids menu

The 417 Magazine Dining uide is a select list of restaurants in southwest Missouri. mplicitly, the maga ine’s editors recommend all these restaurants. The Dining uide is not related to advertising, and 417 Magazine doesn’t accept freebies in e change for reviews or listings. Listings are updated often they appear based on space availability. Restaurants that are written about in Dining uide items such as restaurant reviews, restaurant update sto ries and “ ood Things” are chosen by edi tors as a service to readers.

Restaurant owners: If you have news about your restaurant or a correction to our listing about your restaurant, we’re all ears. Send an e-mail to Food Editor Jorge Cespedes at yum@417mag.com.

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DINING GUIDE FINE DINING

AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING 1908 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-567-3463, avanzareitaliandining.com. Northern Italian. Pasta is always a hit at Avan are, a longtime Springfield favorite. Veal dishes are top notch at this talian eatery, but you’ll have to pick the right night, as they’re only served once or twice a week. Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak and the pasta with seafood in a spicy tomato based sauce. ndulge in the luscious chocolate torte for dessert. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. Sun., p.m. $$$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007. Sicilian. The bucatini with panchetta, chili oil and basil is a must try pasta dish. et it with the arugula salad. Also on the menu is pi a, wagyu steak and more. Open Tues. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. $$$ D M ☎ WIFI

CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR 1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8238383. Steak and seafood. The former Touch Restaurant & Oyster Bar retains some standby dishes like bacon wrapped dates and chicken Bi an 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. ndulgent lobster potato puree and crispy ash 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 e tensive wine list. Open Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. midnight Sun., p.m. $$$ D WIFI M☎

CHATEAU GRILLE 415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-2431777, chateauonthelake.com. Contemporary American. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Chateau rille 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, ying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award win ning menu. Open daily during the regular season weekends only during the off season. $$$ B L D M ☎ WIFI K

CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AN GRILL 815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com. Contemporary American. This Joplin hot spot serves some fantastic seafood, and we’ve en oyed everything we’ve tried there. The Chilean sea bass is a specialty. Try some of the small plates, like portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. There are also some great entree salad options on the menu to choose from. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

THE FINLEY 206 E. Elm St., Ozark, 417-582-1912, facebook. com/thefinleyozark. Contemporary American. The Finley is housed inside a renovated church ust off the O ark town square, and the avors here are a religious e perience. Known for its steak and seafood offerings, The Finley also has a speakeasy bar in its basement. The brunch is super delish too, especially if you can take it out on the patio that’s sunny, spacious and oh so charming to boot. Lunch Weds. Fri. a.m. p.m. Dinner Weds. Sat. p.m. Brunch Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$$ L D WIFI M K ☎

FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR 314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-4444, flamesteakhouse.com. American steakhouse. The restaurant speciali es 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 appeti er menu. Head to Red Room downstairs for killer happy hour food and drink specials. Don’t miss the burgers at happy hour They are so delicious and such a bargain. Open for dinner Mon. Thu., p.m., Fri. Sat., p.m. Red Room open p.m. to bar hours. $$$ D WIFI KM☎

GILARDI’S 820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-6400, gilardisonwalnut.com. Northern Italian. Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little talian restaurant that makes a wonderful date night spot. Don’t miss the ama ing meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce served over goat cheese polenta. And be sure to dine in the outdoor seating area that was e panded last year. Open Mon. Sat., p.m. $$$ D WIFI M☎

HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR 3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com. Japanese. The Oh My od roll and the Se and the City roll are trademarks here. f simple nigiri is your style, you’ll love the tuna sampler. Be sure to ven ture off the sushi menu and try some of the delectable entrees as well. Don’t miss the bibimbap or the fresh mango alape o ahi tuna entree. f 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. Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m., p.m. midnight Sat., a.m. p.m., p.m. midnight Sun., a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M

K ☎V

HARVEST RESTAURANT 8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville. Contemporary American. 417-830-3656. Dining at Harvest Restaurant is an e peri ence like none other in land. The owners, Craig and Tamara Von Foerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper seasonal, local cuisine. Although the menu is constantly in

DINING GUIDE u , Craig is known for his mushroom risotto and scal lop trio. f either of these dishes is on the menu when you visit Harvest, order them immediately. Open Thu. Sat., p.m. Open Sunday for brunch, a.m. p.m. $$$ D M ☎

The cocktails are delicious, the wine menu is wonder ful and the service is always top notch. Open Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri., p.m. Sat., p.m. $$$ D M ☎ WIFI K

JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB

3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-886-3700, nicolasspringfield.com. Italian. This restaurant serves a delicious sea bass. Try the lumache fresh snails sau teed in garlic butter and baked with Parmesan cheese. luten free pasta and pi a are available. The chicken parmigiano is a highlight definitely worth ordering. The Nicola’s pi a here is also super tasty, and the des sert menu is impressive. En oy the spacious outdoor patio when the weather permits, or belly up to the bar for happy hour with friends. Open Mon. Sat., p.m. close. $$–$$$ D WIFI M ☎

1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-886-5466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com. American steakhouse. We love the tasty steaks here. They are always pre pared perfectly. The stuffed Peppadew peppers are a must try appeti er trust us, you need to taste those things The peppers are stuffed with cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and dri led with a balsamic gla e. And if you love a good salad bar, Jimm’s has one of the best. f you’re feeling adventurous, try the off menu smothered rib eye for a little decadence. Desserts are always a treat here as well. Open Sunday, a.m. p.m. Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

KAI 306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-832-0077, kaiafterdark.com. Contemporary Japanese and Korean. This lounge like restaurant in downtown Springfield has fantastic sushi. t 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 ust as impressive as the sushi rolls There are some great cocktail and appeti er options here as well. Lunch Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Dinner Mon. Thu., p.m. midnight Fri. Sat., p.m. a.m. $$–$$$ L D M ☎

LA GALETTE BERRICHONNE 143 E. Main St., Fordland, 417-738-2112, rolandparny. com. Find fine French cuisine ust minutes from Springfield in Fordland at La alette Berrichonne, known for multi course dinners events. Be sure to check for upcoming meals and make a reservation before you go. The food is stellar And so are the pas tries. Stop by the ad oining and quaint bakery and cafe. The desserts alone are worth the trip, including the cream puffs. Reservations recommended for din ner. Open Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sat., open for dinner. $–$$ B L D ☎

LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3443, level2steakhouse. com. Steakhouse. This Branson restaurant speciali es in steaks, but its gooey butter cake dessert is gaining a following. Try the Kansas City strip steak and the egg noodles with cheese. f 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. Open daily, a.m. p.m., p.m. $$$ B L D WIFI M K

METROPOLITAN GRILL 2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com. Eclectic fine dining. Known for its delectable ash fried spinach, this restaurant spe ciali es in steaks and seafood. The salads are always fresh and delicious. And we love that the menu is always changing, giving us something new and deli cious to be e cited about served in a familiar space.

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE

eat your heart out

OCEAN ZEN PACIFIC RIM RESTAURANT 4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-889-9596, eatoceanzen.com. Asian fusion. 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 combina tion of savory, sweet, spicy and refreshing. Don’t miss the delicious top notch steaks that are on the menu here, too. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. bar closes at p.m. happy hour p.m. and last two hours of operation. $$–$$$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

THE ORDER at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-832-1515, theordersgf.com. New American. Step inside the Vandivort Hotel and turn left for a down town Springfield dining e perience not to be missed. The atmosphere is trendy but rela ed while the food is an elevated take on locally inspired dishes. Try the Springfield style cashew chicken bites, the Hurts Donut bread pudding or any of the e cellent entrees. For brunch, try one of the creative takes on eggs Benedict. Open for dinner Mon. Sat. p.m., Sun. p.m. brunch Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m. bar open dai ly p.m. close. $$–$$$ D M V ☎ K WIFI

BEEF RAMEN

OSAGE RESTAURANT at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-225-6343, topoftherock.com. American. Take in beautiful views from the dining room at Osage Restaurant, located at Top of the Rock, and en oy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The fried chicken is stellar, and the cocktails menu always offers created and delicious options. Downstairs is the End of the Trail wine cellar with a wine tasting bar and whiskey room. Reservations are recommended. Collared shirts are recommended after p.m. Open Tue. Sat., p.m. Wine cellar and Buffalo Bar open later. Brunch served Sun., a.m. p.m. $$$ BD KM☎

THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-2106644, finleyfarmsmo.com. Farm-to-table. nside the beautifully restored O ark Mill, you can order upscale farm to table meals that are made with ingredients grown right at Finley Farms or produced in their on site apiary. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters ap peti er made with artichoke, sausage, mo arella and served over a pickled pepper aioli. Open Weds. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M K

1540 W. REPUBLIC ROAD · 417-887-7500 ORDER ONLINE: LEONGSASIANDINER.COM

MA .COM

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PROGRESS 2144 E. Republic Road, B101, 417-799-9388, springfieldprogress.com. New American. Roasted cauli ower, beautifully prepared seafood, dry aged steaks and lots of delicious and veggie forward dishes lead the way at Progress where they encourage you to come as you are. Don’t miss out on a tasty brunch every week end, too. The menu changes with the seasons, and it always includes a new carrot dish that creates avors you never knew you could e perience with that hum ble orange vegetable. Progress also has a lovely patio if outdoor dining is your thing, and the ever changing cocktail is menu is known for its variety of well bal anced drinks that pair perfectly with your meal. Lunch Tues. Fri. a.m. p.m. to go only , dinner Tues. Sat. p.m., brunch Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m.$–$$ L D WIFI M

RETRO METRO 2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-720-1708. This throw back concept brings back decades of old Metropolitan rill favorites. The aptly named Retro Metro serves some of Metropolitan’s greatest hits, including ash fried spinach, Coco Pasta and Metro Steak. For those who choose to dine in, the space is decked out in old Metropolitan rill decor designed to make you feel like you’re stepping back in time. The throw back dishes are available via drive thru, too. Open Tues. Sat. p.m. $$$ D WIFI

CASUAL D N N

ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER 1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-1234; 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. The restaurant at Andy B’s Entertainment Center offers lane side food service and a menu full of hearty, tasty fare like burgers, pi as, pasta and more. Bonus There’s a full service bar here, too. f you’re planning a big event, you can even rent out the whole place and get in house catering. Yum Springfield open Sun. Thu., a.m. midnight Fri. Sat., a.m. Branson open Mon. Thu., noon p.m. Fri., noon p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D M K

AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS 2144 E. Republic Road, Suite E120, Springfield, 417881-9736; aviarycafe.com. Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there’s so much more besides crepes. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French air. Be sure to try dishes infused with Lavender Falls avors, like the lavender honey and goat cheese appeti er that is served with crisp crostini and fresh berries. You can also buy some Lavender Falls products, like lavender simple syrup, at the restaurant. Open Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m. and p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. and p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ B L D ☎ K

BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL 3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-368-5919; 631 S. Kimbrough Ave., Springfield, 417-866-2700; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-732-5077; 701 102

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N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-725-3777; bairsburgers.com. American. There are appeti ers and burgers on the menu at Bair’s, plus plenty of non burger sandwiches, great chicken wings and salads. We love the burger that is topped with ranch dressing and fried pickles. For an appeti er, dig into a plate of fried green beans or spicy cheese curds. Hours vary by location. $ L D K

BEST OF LUCK BEER HALL 313-B S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield; 417-522-9009; bestofluckbeerhall.com. American. This downtown beer hall combines backyard charm with killer food and more beers than you can count. f suds aren’t your thing, try a seasonal cocktail or one of the draft alco holic punches. The e tensive food menu includes a vor spins on cookout favorites, like uicy cheddarwurst brats, salty shoestring fries with dipping sauces, and kimchi spiked fried chicken sandwiches. Open Tue. Thu., a.m. midnight Fri. Sat., a.m. a.m. Brunch Sat. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ B L D

BIGSHOTS GOLF 1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-427-3040, 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 , pi a, wings and lots of shareable apps like the crispy red chili cau li ower. Don’t miss the fun cocktails. We loved the Bee Sting, made with tequila, agave, grapefruit, lime uice and alape o. So good Be sure to stop by for brunch on the weekends. Open Mon. Thu. a.m p.m., Fri. a.m. midnight, Sat. a.m. midnight, Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ B L D

BIG WHISKEY’S Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com. American. Springfield’s go to for buffalo chicken dip, burgers and the staple pub foods has locations spreading through out 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 pret el burger with horseradish aioli, bacon and ched dar. Hours vary by location. Ask about brunch service. $$ B L D

BISTRO 58 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-7731985, vcellars.com. Bistro fare. This restaurant is off the beaten path and offers a stellar selection of wine, a tasty lunch menu and a seasonal monthly dinner menu. Yummy sandwiches fill the lunch menu, like the super tasty Steph sandwich. t features a ciabatta roll that is topped with roasted chicken, orgon ola cheese, fig am and bacon for a wonderful salty and sweet avor profile. Also be sure to check out the Friday night dinners. Open Tue. Sat., a.m p.m. Fri., p.m. $ L D WIFI

BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES 209 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-319-5905; 2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, 417-368-0227; 2420 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-351-3595; blaaacksheep. com. Burgers. This swanky but comfortable burger oint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield Village and on East Sunshine Street. Chow down on the ood Yogi two grass fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pick le and baaad sauce house made Thousand sland dressing. Vegetarian Black Sheep has you covered

with its Hippy Jen. The shakes are great here too, with both kid friendly options and grown up versions with alcohol. For the adults, we recommend trying the Purple Ha e shake with blackberry moonshine in it. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. midnight Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D M

BLACKSTONE GASTROPUB 1521 E. Broadway St., Joplin, 417-553-0665. Gastropub. Damien Tiregol of Crabby’s Seafood Bar & rill now has another Joplin eatery. Blackstone astropub features hand crafted cocktails and beers on tap alongside some great looking eats like the crispy fried chicken, grilled salmon on a bed of gnocchi. Open Weds. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. Mon. a.m. p.m. $ $ L D

CAFE CUSCO 234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-868-8088, cafecusco.com. Peruvian. This menu is packed with fun and une pected dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the Andes Mountains. A few standouts the black bean quinoa burger with avocado spread, the Lomo Saltado, and a host of delicious entrees. Anything that includes the ceviche is a sure bet. You can get it as an appeti er, or as a taco filling. You can even order the Leche de Tigre appeti er to get your ceviche fi it is a shot of ceviche uice with hot sauce and a chilled shrimp chaser. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ L D M WIFI

CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE 601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800. Cafe fare. 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 sal ads 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 en oy at home. n the mornings, the coffee drinks are always well done, and for dessert you can grab a slice of Prairie Pie. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. mid night. $ B L D

CIVIL KITCHEN & TAP 107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-5018456, civilkitchenandtap.com. Bar fare. With beers on tap and chicken and wa es on the menu, it is easy to see the appeal of this rustic but comfortable restaurant and bar. Speciali ing in upscale comfort food, Civil Kitchen and Tap draws inspo from Southern and Midwestern staples. Open Tue. Sat., a.m. a.m. Sun., a.m. midnight $ B L D M ☎

CLUB 609 609 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-6090. Casual fine dining. The menu is large at this Joplin mainstay, and it offers everything from sandwiches to delicious steaks. There is a wide variety of entree salads, and soups are made fresh every day. They also have a killer happy hour. The kitchen is open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. bar is open till close. $$ L D K☎

DERBY DELI 2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066. Cafe fare. Located inside Brown Derby nternational

Back to school?

Back to kai The BBQ Chicken Biscuit from Farmers Gastropub is served on a buttermilk biscuit for the ultimate barbecue experience.

These seven dishes or drinks have passed our taste buds this month and made us rave. They are ranked by level of yumminess.

 To fit this issue’s barbecue theme, we’re loving the BBQ Chicken Biscuit from Farmers Gastropub (2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield; 417-864-6994 . t has shredded barbecued Peace Valley Poultry, pickles and aioli.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

The meatball calzone from Rocco’s Pizza (multiple locations, roccospizzaspringfield.com) is a carb wrapped dream come true. So much cheese is packed inside that perfect crust, and the meatballs are tender, uicy and avorful. t’s perfect for dunking in marinara.

The fresh spring rolls from Bambu (1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield) are some of the best around, filled with fresh veggies, tender shrimp and perfect pork. Don’t forget to dip it in the peanut sauce

We can’t get enough of the apple butter gooey cake from Uncle Buck’s at Big Cedar Lodge (bigcedar.com . A sweet apple butter cake is topped with whipped cream, bourbon caramel sauce and candied pecans. Oh, and ice cream

Catrina’s Mexican Kitchen & Cantina (2925 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 105, Springfield, dinecatrinas.com) has one of our favorite desserts around a sopapilla cheesecake made with rich New York style cheesecake and tons of cinna mon sweetness.

A favorite app is the pretzel board from Derby Deli (2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, derbydeli.com). The pret els are su per soft, and you get not one, not two, but three dipping sauces.

f you need to feed a crowd, you can’t go wrong with the surprisingly delicious bag of burgers from Braum’s (braums.com). At less than per burger, it’s a cheap and indulgent treat.

7 Good Things is chosen by the editors of 417 Magazine as a service to readers. We’ve tried everything on this list, and we like it. To send us your suggestions, click Contact Us on 417mag.com and then submit a letter to the editor. –The Editors

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DINING GUIDE Wine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, sal ads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus board and more. We love the Martin’s salad, topped with oven roasted chicken, or the Local oat 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. Open Tue. Fri., a.m. p.m. for lunch, Tue. Fri., a.m. p.m. for small plates Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417335-2777, bigcedar.com. American. Here you can en oy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. For an appeti er, 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. For brunch, try the ohnny cakes with fried green tomatoes for something with a southern air, or the acai and chia smoothie bowl for something a little trendier. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily for breakfast, a.m. lunch, a.m. p.m. dinner, p.m. $$–$$$ B L D WIFI K M ☎ high season

DOBYNS DINING ROOM 1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu. American. he smoked tomato soup is knock your socks off delicious. College of the O arks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farm to table qual ity. Try the hickory smoked prime rib Thursday through

Saturday. Don’t miss the chocolate cobbler for dessert. The Keeter Center also has a creamery that offers up some delightful homemade ice creams and sorbets. Brunch on Sundays. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ B L D WIFI K M ☎

DOGWOOD CANYON RESTAURANT 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org. American. Located on the grounds of the sprawling, spectacular Dogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon rill Restaurant oo es rustic ele gance and boasts a menu inspired by its earthy sur roundings. Try the BLT made with delicate seared trout cakes and plenty of thick cut bacon. We also loved the margarita made with tequila infused with spicy pep pers. Open daily, a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M

DOWNING STREET POUR HOUSE 24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse. com. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour House is the brainchild of the award winning barbecue slingers who own ettin’ Basted. Open in Hollister Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. Open in Springfield Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $– $ $ L D WIFI K

EBBETS FIELD 1027 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-5050, ebbetssgf.com. American. Under new management, this classic Springfield spot open since has gotten a facelift and menu update. Try the Bird on a Bat bat tered and fried chicken onions and pickles served on

HAND CRAFTED CUBAN FOOD 220 E. Commercial Street | Springfield 417.771.5723 | la-habana-vieja.com 104

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a stick with dipping sauce. The burgers are incredible too You can build your own or try one of the four menu burgers. We’re partial to the St. Louis Black & Blues burger with Ca un style bacon, bleu cheese, pepper ack cheese and veggies. Open Tues. Sun. a.m. bar close. $–$$ L D K

FARMERS GASTROPUB 2620 S. Glenstone Ave., 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. Brunch Saturdays and Sundays. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri., a.m. p.m. Breakfast served Mon. Fri., a.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ B L D M ☎ WIFI K

FIRE & ICE 2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-866-5253, oasisfireandice.com. Global cuisine. This spot located inside Ramada Oasis Hotel & Convention Center spe ciali es in dry aged steaks and certified Angus beef and has a delicious menu that changes with the sea sons. Sit at the bar for a unique e perience You can watch cooks in the open kitchen while resting your drink on the ice bar. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

DINING GUIDE

FUEL–FRESH AMERICAN GRILL 3405 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-1786, facebook.com/FuelFreshAmericanGrill. American. After you work up an appetite at Tracks Family Fun Park, head to Fuel to fuel up. They serve hearty fare like barbe cue nachoes, poutine, a couple loaded burgers, entree salads and more. Open Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

HACKETT HOT WINGS 520 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-625-1333, hacketthotwings. com. American. Sometimes the only thing that will sat isfy your cravings is a big plate of some seriously good chicken wings. The wings at Hackett Hot Wings are fantastic and we’ve heard rave reviews from readers and staffers alike. There are hot wing avors, but we’re partial to the delicious hot and honey sauce and the tasty house dry rub. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D K

HICKORY GROVE CAFE 206 Main St., Crane, 417-723-0213. Homestyle American. This little spot located in Crane speciali es in homestyle cooking, fresh homemade desserts and daily specials. Don’t miss the bacon ranch burger, a tall and luscious burger topped with a fat fried onion ring. Open Mon., a.m. p.m. Tue. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L D

HOT CLUCKERS 1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield; 417-882-5825, facebook.com/hotcluckers. Southern. For kickin chicken that’ll make your nose run and your brow sweat, head

to Hot Cluckers. Serving Nashville style hot chicken, this counter service oint brings avors of Tennessee to Springfield. Cheeky spice levels allow you to cus tomi e your mouth burning e perience we’re partial to Hot Motherclucker. Open daily a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD K

HOULIHAN’S 2431 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-862-7777; 2110 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-883-3434; houlihans.com. American. The fish tacos and burgers are fantastic, and we love the enormous nachos appe ti er along with the vast salad selection. rab some friends and share a few of the small plates. When the weather is nice, be sure to grab a table on the patio. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. midnight Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M WIFI K

HY-VEE MARKET GRILLE 1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-8224, marketgrille.hy-vee.com. American. Don’t sleep on this restaurant serving American fare ad acent to the gro cery store of the same name. They run constant spe cials, from half price sushi and wine on Wednesdays to off bar drinks and appeti ers on Mondays. For the kiddos, meals are free every week on Tuesday, too. Open daily, a.m. p.m., bar opens at a.m. $–$$ B L D M WIFI K

LA HABANA VIEJA 220 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-771-5723, la-habana-vieja.com. Cuban. Find great mo itos and

a menu full of Cuban fare at this Commercial Street eatery. Try the ropa vie a, Cuba’s national dish of beef brisket, rice and veggies. Open Mon. Sat. a.m. p.m. and p.m. $$–$$$ L D

NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE 2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-3403, nearlyfamous.net. Deli and Italian. Regulars love the weekly specials egg salad on Fridays, pear sandwiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastic, and it goes well with ust about any sandwich at this friendly spot. t’s hopping at lunchtime, and the dinner hours offer a menu filled with tasty pasta dishes. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $$ B L D K M

RED ONION CAFÉ 204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe. com. American/Italian. The Tu edo Chicken is a cus tomer favorite. Diners also love the bacon wrapped shrimp, the blackened tuna sandwich or Dave’s fried chicken salad. Try the BLT&A. The A stands for avo cado... yum Live entertainment every third Thursday. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $$ L D WIFI K

ROSIE JO’S CAFE 1711 S. 15th St., Ozark, 417-581-6047. American. This place is a popular hangout at breakfast time with great daily specials, and it also has great homemade pies, including surprising ones like gooseberry. The fried chicken is delicious at this eatery, and so are the fried dill pickles and the onion rings. f it’s fried at Rosie Jo’s, you know it’s going to be delicious. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D K

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SPLIT SOCIAL KITCHEN 3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-755-7155, splitspringfield.com. American. Come for creative and beautifully prepared shareables, like burrata with tru e pesto, that are served a teeny restaurant space that packs a lot of good vibes. We love the ama ing macaroni and cheese get fried chicken with it as your optional protein . And the Chiliville hot chicken sand wich is seriously spicy. Come on the weekend to try the tasty brunch menu. Open Tues. Fri. a.m. p.m., Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ B LD

ST. MICHAEL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE 301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315. American. The burgers are top notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken breast are a favorite try the one with spicy Ca un chicken yum . Come hungry enough to order dessert because the cakes are stellar. Our favorite is the dreamy banana cake nothing can beat it . Open Mon. Wed., a.m. p.m. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D K ☎

THAT LEBANESE PLACE 338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677. Lebanese. The kibbeh is fantastic if you like herba ceous eats, and any of the delicious and meaty kebabs is a great choice. We love the stuffed grape leaves appeti er, served with a delicious tahini dipping sauce. The falafel mushakal sandwich is great too, with falafel, baba ghanou , French fries, fresh veggies, pickled tur nips and tahini. There are plenty of options for din ers with vegetarian, vegan or gluten free diets. For a super delicious dessert, don’t miss the baklava made with Lebanese rose water. Open Tue. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ $$ L D

VAN GOGH’S EETERIE 334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie. com. Indo-Dutch. Dutch pancakes, chicken witlof and other ndo Dutch and Dutch inspired cuisine popu late the menu at this Commercial Street hotspot from Joe idman of Cafe Cusco. We love the pancakes especially the Farm Near Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. For some thing packed with veggies, the Li a’s Stamppot entree is perfect. For something sweet, our favorite is the Starry Night dessert pancake topped with blueberry compote, lemon ginger sauce and ice cream. Open Tue. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ B L D ☎

BARBECUE

BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ 2002 S. Campbell Ave., 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. And don’t miss the alape o bot tle caps. f you’re e tra hungry, get the baked potato that’s covered with ust about everything.Open daily, a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI K

CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE 3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-720-1113, citybutchersgf.com. Come early because this Te as style 106

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barbecue spot, where the meat is smoked in small batches for optimal freshness, is known to sell out. Killer brisket, pulled pork and other favorites are sold first come, first served with a few simple but delicious side dish options. Open daily a.m. until sold out. $–$$ L D M

eatery we like the spicy ones, but the mustard base is delicious, too , and we love the e tra indulgent potato salad it is among the best we’ve ever tried . Don’t miss the barbecue nachos or super uicy chicken. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D M ☎ WIFI K

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. Another customer favorite even though it’s not barbecue is the always tasty and oh so crispy fried catfishOpen Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D ☎ K

GETTIN’ BASTED 3242 S. Stewart Ave., Springfield; 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. Open Sun. Thurs. a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m.. $–$$ L D K

HARD KNOX BBQ 2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-720-4811, hardknoxbbq.com. Crispy pork belly, fiery alape o sau sage, burnt ends and addicting potato salad are some of the menu highlights at Hard Kno BBQ. The eatery was opened by Pat Duran, owner of Metropolitan rill, and he turned his champion barbecue team into a brick and mortar restaurant. Open Tue. Sat., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

HEADY BAR-B-QUE CO. 573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq.com. This spot speciali es in Kansas City style barbecue. Among stellar ribs, brisket and more perfectly pre pared meats, you can find une pected dishes with a barbecue spin nachos, salads, a burrito. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M K

MISSOURI MIKE’S BBQ & MORE 2833 W. Chestnut Expy., Springfield, 417-771-5018, momikesbbq.com. n additional to very well done clas sic barbecue options brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork , you can also get a handful of great sandwiches. The Lyndsey is a smashburger with pulled pork, brisket, barbecue sauce and cole slaw. Try the tri tip sandwich on brioche with a side of pit beans. Open Mon. Sat. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D K

PAPPY’S PLACE

BREAKFAST

BILLY GAIL’S CAFE 5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com. Billy ail’s in Branson has been a beloved breakfast hotspot for ages. The O ark spot and has become ust as popular. Come for massive pancakes and other breakfast fare. The O ark location serves dinner on the weekends. Branson open daily a.m. p.m. O ark open daily a.m. p.m. and Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ B L D

THE BRUNCHEONETTE 424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net. We love the creative takes on eggs Benedict that we’ve found at The Bruncheonette, whose menu changes weekly but is always interesting. Don’t miss your chance to order a plate of poutine, hand cut fries topped with gravy, shredded cheese and a poached egg. The carrot fries are wonderful too. This restaurant is small but mighty, and it’s worth the wait for a table. Open Wed. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun., a.m. until supplies run out. $ B L

EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST PUB 1717 E. Cherokee St., Springfield, 417-885-8088. This spot serves up creative breakfast fare and has a full service bar churning out breakfast margaritas and the ilk. Bonus Those breakfast margs are made with orange marmalade for a nod to the day’s first meal. Don’t miss the tacos, burritos, traditional breakfast fare, sandwiches and more. There’s even a chicken and wa es sandwich. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L

EUROPEAN CAFÉ 207 Park Central East, Springfield, 417-569-6702, 417europeancafe.com. Along with coffee drinks, this little bakery serves up lovely croissants, beautiful des serts, perfect pastries and more. Their macarons are to die for, and the pretty little mousse cakes are almost too lovely to eat. We love the quiche here as well. Open Mon. Thurs., a.m. p.m. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ WIFI

FIRST WATCH

WHOLE HOG CAFÉ

2946 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-889-0601; 3103 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-633-7094; firstwatch.com. o traditional with a plate piled with crispy bacon, eggs and toast. Or order something more creative. At First Watch you can find breakfast power bowls like the one filled with quinoa, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, kale and eggs , lemon ricotta pancakes, avocado toast, a superfood bowl with chia pudding and fruit and lots more. Don’t miss the lunch treats, too. Open daily, a.m. p.m. $ B L K

224 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-868-0042; 2731 N. Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-720-4759 wholehogsgf.com. Customers love the pulled pork sandwich. There’s a delicious sauce for every taste bud at this

220 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-5500. The sweet potato hash browns are super delish here, and

943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744. Be sure not to miss the pork spare ribs with Pappy’s barbe cue sauce or the barbecue nachos at this long run ning Springfield institution. E tra perk We’ve heard people say that Pappy’s sells the very coldest beer in town. The restaurant’s daily specials are delicious, too. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

GAILEY’S BREAKFAST CAFÉ

DINING GUIDE we highly recommend ordering them in place of the traditional hash browns. We also love The Bear Hug biscuits and gravy, choice of meat, two eggs and either hash browns or sweet browns. f you’re feeling a little British, try The Full Monty. ailey’s is known for breakfast, but the restaurant also has a tasty lunch menu. Breakfast and lunch are served all day. Open Sun. Tues., a.m. p.m., Wed. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L WIFI K

MORNING DAY CAFE 101 S. Main St., Nixa; 417-494-5055. facebook.com/ MDCNixa. Downtown Ni a gets its morning olt thanks to Morning Day Cafe, a co y, eclectic space right on the main drag. There’s plenty to love on the e ten sive menu. For the sweet tooth, try the mu n platter with a tender, sweet mu n trio. Classic breakfast fare fills the menu, but fun surprises include dishes the Bacon, with an insanely addictive carmeli ed ouda potato cake and a hashtag of bacon. Open a.m. p.m. daily. $$ B L WIFI K

RISE 105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-691-6088, 417rise.com. This spot is the brainchild of the same people who own European Cafe. The large and varied menu is inventive and superbly e ecuted, with clever dishes like pavlova inspired French toast, baklava in spired Belgian wa ees, both sweet and savory rice pudding meals, nourishing grain bowls, breakfast sandwiches from classic to creative and so much more. Treat yourself to a breakfast cocktail and a plate of creamed eggs topped with smoked salmon. t’s an awesome way to brunch. Open Mon.. Fri. a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m.. $ B L WIFI

VILLAGE INN FAMILY RESTAURANT Multiple 417-land locations, villageinn.com. Try the breakfast skillets, eggs Benedict and, of course, the super tasty pies. We love the crepes and other sweet breakfast offerings, too. At breakfast, you can build your own meal by picking four items from a long list of classic breakfast favorites. We like pairing eggs with bacon, fruit and half of a sweet Belgian wa e . And of course, don’t miss grabbing a slice of pie while you’re there. Hours vary by location. $ B L D WIFI K ☎

CAFES & B STROS

THE GROTTO 301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-886-9600 gogrotto.com. The menu is accessible to meat eat ers and vegetarians alike. The super indulgent warm blue cheese chips are a favorite appeti er. Customers like the pi as and the burgers especially the burger topped with lots of tangy blue cheese . One of our favorites is the grilled salmon sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries. Also try the black bean burger with sweet potato fries. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D K

TEA BAR & BITES 621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417-866-7500, teabarandbites. com. Everything we’ve tasted at Tea Bar & Bites has been fantastic. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, aky crust. We love any of the menu items that have a Mediterranean air. The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options. There are tasty baked goods too, like giant caramel rolls or sweet coconut cream cupcakes. Occasional theme dinners. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L D M ☎ V

CAJUN

BIG EASY GRILL 3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040. The ambalaya is fantastic, and we like to order it e tra spicy. The oyster po’boys are customer favorites, and the boudin Ca un sausage balls are not to be missed. Try mi and match dishes to create a meal full of your favorite Ca un avors you can order a side of red beans and rice with a po’boy, for e ample . Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D K

BOURBON & BEALE 2639 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-268-7266. Cajun, Creole and Memphis barbecue. Meals are hearty and comforting at this casual spot that serves a mi of Ca un and Creole favorites like crawfish etouffee and Memphis barbecue like brisket along with typi cal American fare that has a Ca un twist. Try the Ca un Pasta Jambalaya with shrimp, chicken, andouille and Creole spiced Alfredo sauce over penne pasta. Open daily a.m. p.m. $$ L D WIFI

IMP

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CH NESE

5 SPICE CHINA GRILL 2058 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-799-0215. A modern take on Chinese food. Diners love the eneral chicken, the sweet and crunchy crab Rangoon and the mango chicken. We really love the alapeno basil dishes too. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ $$ L D K M ☎

BAO BAO CHINESE BISTRO 2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite A104, Springfield, 417877-7505. Chinese food fans, this is a must try spot for you. We ust keep hearing rave reviews about Bao Bao Chinese Bistro. This little spot in Chesterfield Village has a chef who used to own a restaurant in Shanghai, so there are several authentic items on the menu. Try the salt and pepper pork or the iao i dumplings. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY

CORNER 21

1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417720-4162; 1301 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8862535; neighborsmill.com. This full time bakery offers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches, soups and sal ads. Don’t miss the honey pecan chicken salad, which comes on Bron e honey wheat bread, or the Reuben, which comes on pumpernickel rye bread. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L D K

1369 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-766-6630, corner21us.com. Here you’ll find dishes that aren’t com mon on local Chinese menus, such as braised pork belly with rice noodles, ribeye and enoki mushrooms in a curry broth, crispy fried pumpkin, spicy Sichuan fish and more. We loved everything we tried on a re cent visit. Open Tues. Thurs. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $ L D

CALL 417.890.1016 TO ORDER VIEW MENU ON OR GRUBHUB 1440 W. REPUBLIC ROAD, SUITE 120

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LEONG’S ASIAN DINER 1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-887-7500. The Leong family serves its original cashew chicken at this tasty eatery, among lots of other yummy stuff. The crab Rangoon are especially delicious here, and we like to dip them in the bold and spicy mustard sauce. The egg rolls are a classic, made from scratch with a peanut butter air. The eneral Tso’s chicken has a rich and spicy sauce and lots of veggies. The sig nature dishes are great, but be sure to keep an eye out for new items, as they change up their menu a couple times a year. Open Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D WIFI K

LUCY’S CHINESE FOOD Several 417-land locations, lucyschinesefood.com. Don’t miss the cashew chicken combo special that gets you an entree, a side and fried rice for an incred ible 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. t’ll have you reaching for your water glass with every bite. We love the kids meals here, too. They are the perfect little por tion of tiny diners, plus they come with a spring roll, a crab rangoon and a drink. Hours vary by location and season. $ L D

the oldendoodle, a signature combination of cara mel and brown sugar. Sips aren’t the only draw here, either. The shop serves full lunch and breakfast menus too. ndulge in a Nutella toast with strawberries along with your morning brew. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L V WIFI

matcha latte is truly delicious. For a more substantial bite, try the Union Biscuit smoked bacon, two eggs, sharp cheddar cheese and herb preserves on a but termilk biscuit. Open daily, a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI

CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE

323 South Ave. Suite B, Springfield, 417-832-1720, mudhousecoffee.com. The coffee is always fantas tic here, and Mudhouse also offers a wide variety of loose leaf teas. The mu ns here are huge and deli cious make sure you try the one with berries it’s our favorite . You can also order daily fresh soups and cre ate your own sandwiches, or you could opt for some thing healthier in the gluten free Buddha bowls filled with so much healthful goodness.. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI

1900 W. Sunset St., Springfield, 417-881-7625, classicrockcoffee.com; 535 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-771-5143, classicrockcoffeedowntown.com. This coffee shop offers espresso drinks with rock n’ roll inspired names. Try the Sweet Emotion latte with chocolate and caramel and a hamd and cheese puff pastry breakfast pocket to start your day. Open Mon. Wed., a.m. p.m. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri., a.m. midnight Sat., a.m. midnight. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D V M WIFI

THE COFFEE ETHIC 124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-866-6645, thecoffeeethic.com. Try the single origin coffee, brewed one cup at a time, or any of the creative and delicious seasonal drinks. The cappuccino is fantastic truly one of the best we’ve ever had , and the shop also serves wine, craft beers on draft and a small selection of quality liquors. We love the bottled lattes too. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ WIFI

COUNTRY GIRLS ESPRESSO COFFEE SHOP FARE

ARCHITECT COFFEE 1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-771-5030, architectcoffeeco.com. This nstagram chic coffee shop on Springfield’s south side offers a bright and co y at mosphere with warm drinks and hearty food, to boot. The breakfast burritos are stellar and so filling. We love the seasonal drinks that change every so often, espe cially when they offer some version of a refreshing espresso tonic. So good Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L M WIFI

B2 CAFE 2804 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-5748, go2b2.com. This spot serves up delicious coffee drinks along with fresh smoothies and uices plus a small menu of healthy fare. n the morning, try homemade granola. For lunch, choose from quiche, soups, salads and more. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L WIFI

BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR

3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-7777, 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. Country irls’ signature is its Cafe Con Leche with scalded milk. For breakfast, the pressed bacon and cheddar burritos are a favorite thanks to crisp, thick cut bacon. Order it with an iced Americano for a hearty brekafast. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K

MUDHOUSE COFFEE

THE PRESS COFFEE & JUICE BAR 2710 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-771-5950.. This whole foods cafe offers organic dishes with ingredi ents from local market vendors. Juices are organic and cold pressed. The real draw here is the Me ican Korean fusion menu, featuring gogi nachos, kimchi fried rice and street tacos. The gogi quesadilla with kimchi is our favorite we like to order it with tofu and e tra go i sauce on the side for dipping every single crispy bite of our quesadilla. Don’t miss the seasonal drinks they don’t disappoint. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI

THE WORKSHOP AT FINLEY FARMS 840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6690, finleyfarmsmo.com. The Workshop is a coffee shop and gathering space. The menu includes classic coffee and tea offerings plus super si ed suped up toasts the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious . Look for hand crafted cocktails, beer and wine as well, and come to the space for hands on workshop classes. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L WIFI

DANCING MULE COFFEE COMPANY 1945 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-5114, dancingmulecoffee.com. The mochas are great here chocolatey but not too sweet. Dancing Mule also does a really good authentic cappuccino that’s made ust right. Try the Peanut Butter Fandango Frappe if you’re in the mood for something a little more funky, and if you’re on the run, swing through the drive thru. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B WIFI

EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE

DEL S & SANDW CH SHOPS

J. PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI 1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-1148, 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 talian beef sandwiches order them wet to get plenty of luscious us . You can’t go wrong with the pastrami sandwich that’s incredibly meaty piled high ust like they do it in New York City delis. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

THE BLACK LAB COFFEE CO.

445 E. Commercial St., 417-720-1949, culturecstreet. com. This coffee roaster with a mission also serves some tasty fare in its Culture Cafe. n addition to carefully crafted cups of coffee and Turkish coffee , there’s a Veggie Naan’wich made with chickpea mash, carrots and pickled onions. it’s one of our favorite lunches. We love orderig a latte and adding rosewa ter and honey. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D M WIFI

545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook.com/ theblacklabllc 300 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417942-7881, facebook.com/BlackLabDowntown; 3541 S. Lone Pine Ave, Springfield. 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

KINGDOM COFFEE

208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-685-9682, thesandwichscene.com. This walk up spot slings some seriously good sammies. Don’t miss the Eurbano, made with mo o pork, house made terrine, ham, swiss and spicy giardiniera. Keep an eye out for get them while you can specials that are always creative and delish. $ L D

211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-3501234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf. com. The coffee menu here features all your favorite classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos, mochas and more. We love the classic cortado the most, and the not too sweet and super creamy iced

1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-887-3804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8077. The Fighter Pilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, banana peppers, lettuce and

217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-865-9911; bigmommascoffee.com. This spot offers coffee, espresso and blended frappes. But there is more on the menu than ust drinks. Be sure to try the super delicious sandwiches that are served here, too. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D M WIFI

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THE SANDWICH SCENE

THE SUB SHOP

DINING GUIDE sub sauce. Be sure to try the sandwich specials also known as the secret sandwiches they are always cre ative and delish. Hit an ATM on the way there, because The Sub Shop is cash only. Seminole Street location open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. West McDaniel Street location open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. $ L

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFÉ 3811 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-887-6600; 3645 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-719-4486; 1971 E. Independence St., Springfield, 417-350-1273; tropicalsmoothiecafe.com. Lunches are light and pretty guilt free. rab a turkey bacon ranch sandwich or a wrap. Sides incldue a tasty street corn and some sweet yet healthful maple roasted sweet potatoes. And of course, don’t miss those tasty smoothies. They come in ust about every avor you can think of, but we’re partial to the one with berries and oats. Kids eat free on weekends. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K

SOCIETEA

NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR

1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-4094, facebook.com/societea. 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. Whether you’re a bubble tea veteran or looking to try something new, this is your place. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ WIFI

3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050. Find all your favorite classic ndian dishes here the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are both e cellent along with some others you might not have seen around town before. For e ample, the gol gap pay is a crispy little hollow fried ball filled with chick peas, potato, onion and spices. We love the ras malai dessert homemade cheese in a sweet, milky, carda mom infused sauce. Open Weds. Mon. a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat. p.m. Sun., Mon., Weds. p.m. $$ L

ST. GEORGE’S DONUTS 3628 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-881-7515; 3012 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-1718; 1415 W. State Highway J, Ozark, 417-425-7885; stgeorgesdonuts.net. Lots of luscious doughnuts are made fresh daily here. We love the gla ed blueberry and the oh so fresh chocolate cake donuts. Open daily, a.m. p.m. National Avenue location closed Sunday O ark location closed Monday. $ B

D NERS & REASY SPOONS

DESSERTS & SWEETS

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings our staffers love the key lime pie and blackberry in the summer, and the apple pie and pumpkin pie in the fall . Try the O arks Turtle sundae a classic concoction with caramel, hot fudge and toasty pecans . Or order your own creation. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. midnight. $

HURTS DONUT 320 Park Central West, Springfield, 417-719-4119; 1111 E. Republic Road, Suite 164, Springfield, 417-7557574; wannahurts.com. Outside the bo toppings cover these super delicious doughnuts, and they are available hours a day in downtown Springfield. A customer favorite is the maple bacon bar, a huge, salty sweet concoction that is oh so delish. Open hours. $ B L D WIFI

LA BOBA CAFE 1601 W. Sunshine St., Suite D, Springfield, 417-7201328 facebook.com/labobacafe. Here you can get boba tea in a huge variety of avors and formats, from regular tea to milk tea and smoothies. Toppings include black boba, crystal boba and several avors of elly and popping boba. Our favorite Tiger milk tea a combination of Thai tea and asmine tea with ly chee ellies and crystal boba. You can also get rolled ice cream sundaes here. Open Mon. Weds. a.m. p.m., Thurs. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. noon p.m. $ B L WIFI

PRAIRIE PIE 307 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com. Prairie Pie makes stellar all butter crust pies in avors 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 some with cherry, some with strawberry are superb. Stop by the storefront for other offerings as well, such as savory pot pies, cookies and cra y good mashed potatoes. Open Thurs. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L WIFI

TAJ GRILL 4538 Highway 43, Joplin, 417-659-8876, facebook. com/tajgrilljoplin. This Joplin spot serves your favorite classic ndian dishes, like karahi chicken, malai kofta and more. For dessert, try the ras malai. Come for breakfast as well, when you can get dishes like masa la omelets and stuffed aloo pratha atbread. Look for the barbecue specials too seasoned, grilled chicken leg quarters. Open Tues. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ B LD

BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND

TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT

1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291. illy Bob’s is a greasy spoon institution that serves deli cious sweets and tasty American food. There are avors of fried pies here. Cheeseburgers pro tip top them with grilled onions and foot long hot dogs with chili and cheese are popular. Open daily, a.m. p.m. $ L D

1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573. You can find all your ndian favorites here on the large menu. There is a variety of naan bread and it’s so, so good , many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts like rice pudding and gulab amun donuts soaked in syrup . We are obsessed with the lamb ro gan osh and the chicken alfre i, and the bhindi mas ala an okra dish is a favorite too. Open for lunch and dinner daily. $$ L D

DRUFF’S 331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-719-1719, yumdruffs.com. Druff’s brings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses, soups and creative sides. For a little heat, try the ood Doctor, made with cheddar, cream cheese, bacon and alape o, 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. Open Tue. Wed., a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D

RED’S GIANT HAMBURG 2301 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. A revival of the Route staple the original Red’s is rumored to be the country’s first drive through restaurant , this diner serves up as much nostalgia as it does classic burgers. Opt for the stacked high griddle burgers served with fries or onion rings, slurp on a malt or milkshake, or try out some of the newer gluten free options. Check out the breakfast menu if you’re up early. Open daily, a.m. p.m. $ B L D K

INDIAN

ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE 311 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, 417-351-4400, zaykaspringfield.com. There’s a lot to love about this downtown Springfield ndian restaurant. The vege table korma, chicken tikka masala and malai kofta are ust a few of our favorite dishes. f you’re new to ndian food, try the pre set combo meals that feature a lot of different avors. Open for lunch Tue. Sun., a.m. p.m. open for dinner Tue. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. Sun., p.m. $ $$ L D M

TAL AN

ARCHIE’S ITALIAN EATERY 1410 E. Republic Rd., Springfield, 417-720-1763, archiesitalian.com. There are different types of fet tuchini on the menu plus a build your own option , along with classic talian dishes. Don’t miss the home made cheesey toasted ravioli. Come at lunchtime to get freshly baked pi a. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $$ L D K

AVANZARE, please see listing p. 100

INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL

BAMBINO’S CAFÉ

2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill.com. ome to this yummy little spot on the Branson strip to indulge in some tasty ndian fare. We loved the karahi lamb ten der lamb, bell peppers and onion in a spicy sauce and the mushroom aloo matar mushrooms, potatoes and peas swimming in a creamy sauce . Stop by for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays to take advantage of the tasty buffet. Open daily, a.m. p.m., p.m. $$ L D

1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417-862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-4442; bambinoscafe.com. This little talian eatery serves hearty helpings of tasty talian fare that won’t break the bank, available at two land locations. The Poppa is a popular pasta dish t comes with penne pasta, talian sausage, mushrooms and a spicy tomato cream sauce. The Delmar location is great for a meal alfresco. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., noon p.m. $ L D WIFI K MA .COM

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DINING GUIDE

BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT, please see p. 100

DIGIACINTO ITALIAN RESTAURANT 2259 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-882-5166. Regulars say you have to try the chicken Alfredo and the spaghetti and meatballs, both signature dishes. Also try the beef canneloni. All pasta dishes come with salad and fresh baked bread, and the Philly chees esteak sandwiches are incredible here too. Open Tue. Sat., p.m. $$ D K ☎

SALVATORES FRESH RISTORANTE ITALIANO

favorite. Open Mon. Fri., Sun., a.m. p.m.,

1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com. The menu here is packed with handmade pastas that are freshly crafted every day. f you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them making the fresh pasta. The menu also boasts everything from fried artichokes to a Tuscan T bone, plus burgers, pi a and sandwiches. Open Tue. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

KM☎

JAPANESE

CRAFT SUSHI

600 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-920-8850, thehilldining.com. Come hungry to The Hill, chef Angel Kim’s all you can eat destination offering a wide vari ety of talian fare in a fine dining atmosphere. Fill up on plenty of pastas, brick oven pi as, soups, salads, crepes and specialty desserts at stations dedicated to those and other mouthwatering items. Open for lunch Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Open for dinner Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri., p.m. Sat., p.m. Sun., p.m. Brunch served Sat. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ $$ L D M WIFI ☎ for groups of or more .

251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417-3195887, facebook.com/craftsushi. At Craft Sushi, you’re in control of your meal as you customi e your own sushi and poke bowls. And the best part t won’t break the bank. Try a salad bowl topped with marinated tofu, asparagus, mushrooms, alapenos, edamame and spicy wasabi sauce. t’s our favorite Customer’s love the spicy pork as well. There is also a menu of some pre designed poke bowls and sushi rolls. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $$ L D

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE, please see listing p. 101

HARUNO, please see listing p. 100 HINODE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ 306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-831-1222, nonnascafe. net. Italian. The seafood lasagna is a must try dish, and the spicy arrabbiata lasagna is cra y good. Anything with talian sausage is a sure bet. We particularly love the delectable chocolate torte and the rich and deli cious tiramisu. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m p.m. $$ L D K M ☎

PASTA EXPRESS Multiple 417-land locations, pastaexpress.com.The baked mostaccioli is a favorite, and it’s smothered in gooey melted cheese. The house salad is also delish here make sure you ask for it with cheese and toma toes. Don’t miss the tasty and indulgent hot Pasta E press sandwich topped with lots of salami and some of the tasty salad. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI K M

PICCOLO 107 West Aldersgate Drive, Suites 1 and 2, Nixa, 417374-7291, eatpiccolo.com. When you’re craving indul gent talian fare, Piccolo delivers with a range of piled high pastas, pi as, steak and chicken entrees. Start things off with the talian Nachos fried wonton chips, homemade alfredo sauce and toppings , or the Balboa balls, uicy meatballs stuffed with mo arella and fin ished with goat cheese and marinara. Open Tue. Thu., p.m. Fri., p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D WIFI ☎ M

RAMATA ITALIAN 1201 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-231-9559, ramataitalian.com. Located along Lake Taneycomo at Branson Landing, Ramata talian offers talian cuisine in a contemporary atmosphere with scenic lake views from the patio. The menu includes homemade pas ta, gourmet pi a and more. nside you can sit at the chef’s table to get a view of the kitchen, and outside you can co y up to the firepit. L D

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NIJI SUSHI 3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417851-1707. n addition to a large variety of sushi rolls, 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. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $$ L D

SAKURA

GILARDI’S, please see listing p. 100 THE HILL

p.m. Sat., p.m. p.m. $$ L D

4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777. Come to see the show at the hibachi grills. Hinode is known for wonderful hibachi meals with perfectly cooked proteins and all the e tras rice, stir fry noodles, veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. And don’t forget to try something from the sushi menu. Open daily, a.m. p.m. Sun. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. $$ L D K M ☎

KAI, please see listing p. 101 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 naked ramen with seseame noodle spinach, wood ear mushrooms, bean sprout, seaweed and sprinkled with lime is a highlight. The Tonkatsu is a house special, a pork cutlet with Japanese mustard barbeque sauce, shredded cabbage and miso soup. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Mon. Thu., p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. $ L D MIJURI SUSHI & GRILL 2710 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-889-9593. All of the sushi is top notch, and the prices are always reasonable. The variety includes something for every sushi tastebud. Customers love the spicy Dynamite roll. One of our favorites is the simiply delicious yel lowtail roll. For an appeti er, order some of the shumai dumplings to share they are delicious Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. $$ L D M ☎

NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-881-7171, nakato.com. Performance style hibachi dining is what Nakato is known for. And they are super good at it A little entertainment a great meal. All of the sushi is top notch here as well. Don’t miss the Jenny Roll, a

3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000. There’s a solid sushi menu, and you can order a sushi donburi bo to really get some bang for your buck. The bento bo es are packed with your choice of entree, California roll, rice, salad, miso soup, fruit, spring rolls, veggie tempura and ice cream. Open Tue. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ L D WIFI M ☎

SUSHI VILLAGE 1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-890-1016, facebook.com/springfieldsushivillage. This co y sushi spot has a warm date night atmosphere with cherry blossoms and plants around every corner. All the sushi is fresh and avorful, but some custom creations pack fun ingredient combos. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m., p.m. Fri., a.m. p.m., p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $$ L D WIFI

KOREAN

BAWI KOREAN BBQ 4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-886-2777, bawikbbq.com. Bawi Korean BBQ brings an authentic Korean dining e perience to Springfield, where you’ll pay a at fee of for an all you can eat 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 offerend on special. Open Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat, p.m. Sun., p.m. $$ D

GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT 1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093. This spot serves up delicious and authentic Korean food. The beef bulgogi and dolsot bibimbap are best sellers here. We also love the fried dumplings and kimbop. Try the tasty kimchi fried rice or spicy octopus stir fry. f you’re in the mood for something really comforting on a cold day, opt for the kimchi chigae. Open Wed. Mon., a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI ☎

KORIYA 4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077. This spot serves create your own bibimbap dishes, and you can choose between chicken, beef bulgogi, tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the apchae, made with slippery stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies. Don’t miss the aru 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. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

DINING GUIDE MED TERRANEAN

GREEK BELLY 320 E. Walnut St., 417-597-3382, greekbelly.com. We love everything we’ve tasted here Try a tasty pork or chicken gyro topped with creamy t at iki, tomatoes, onions and French fries on a soft pita. Our favorite, though, is the loukaniko. t’s an orange spiced pork sausage served with spicy feta dip. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Brunch served the second Sunday of each month, a.m. p.m. $ L D ☎ WIFI K

is the Hawaiian taco with chicken, feta cheese, grilled pineapple, hominy salsa, cilantro sour cream and chili sauce in a crunchy blue corn tortilla. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

IGUANA ROJA 107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net. There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery don’t miss the one made with alape os it has a kick that’s so much fun to drink . Open Tue. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D K

RIAD’S BURGERS AND GYROS

LA PALOMA

400 South Ave., Springfield, 417-720-1018. The menu features some long lost Mediterranean favorites from Riad Matar’s previous restaurants, like the ama ing baba ghanoush. Also look for fun tastes, like the Riad Signature Chicken Pasta. Plus, you ust can’t go wrong if you order a gyro. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat, a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-719-4484, dienlapaloma.com; 1425 W. Battlefield St., Springfield, 417-889-2985, thelapaloma.com. This spot offers a huge range of Me ican dishes including fish tacos, which are e cellent. Battered and fried fish is topped with fresh pic de gallo, cabbage and a creamy chipo tle sauce and then served with Me ican white rice. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

VASKEN’S DELI 3200 Gretna Road, Suite D, Branson, 417-334-9182, vaskensdeli.com. The gyros are fantastic here. Make sure you get them with traditional gyro meat, and don’t skip the t at iki sauce We are nuts for the beef shawerma too, though. t makes for a super delicious and satisfying meal and tastes ama ing with tahini. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. E tended summer hours. $ L D WIFI K

ME CAN

CANTINA LAREDO 1001 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-334-6052, cantinalaredo.com. Cantina Laredo is a great option if you’re e ploring Branson and have a hankering for Me ican food. Located on Branson Landing, it has a great view of the fountain and Lake Taneycomo. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $$ LD

CATRINA’S MEXICAN KITCHEN & CANTINA 2925 Battlefield Road, Suite 105, Springfield, 417-3501006, catrinascantina.com. Serving authentic share able dishes and full entrees. Look for hand crushed guacamole that can be loaded up with chicharron. The grilled plaintains are a treat Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m., Sun., noon p.m. $$ L D

CESAR’S OLD MEXICO 2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 17-881-8252. ndulge in authentic Me ican food at incredibly rea sonable prices. We love the birria taco, which is filled with succulent shredded beef. The carnitas torta is also e cellent. t’s huge and is stuffed with savory car nitas, topped with melted cheese, tomatoes, lettuce and mayo and then sandwiched between a pillowy bun. Need we say more Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

GREAT AMERICAN TACO COMPANY 2915 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-315-8745; 2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-720-1708, greatamericantaco.com. This spot offers outside the bo tacos in a huge range of combinations. A must try

LOS CABOS MEXICAN GRILL & CANTINA 4109 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-823-9114, facebook.com/loscabosspringfield. The fried avocados and Me ico City tacos pico de gallo, onions, sour cream, pepper ack cheese and your meat of choice are crowd favorites. We also love the veggie fa itas and the mango chicken salad. The salsa here is stellar. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ $$ L D K V

MARIA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 406 South Ave., Springfield, 417-831-9339; mariasmexican.restaurant. Don’t miss the fried tacos. Try the queso de cabra, which is a goat cheese sauce topped with chori o. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., noon p.m. $$ L D WIFI K

MEXICAN VILLA Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net. This spot is a favorite among longtime Springfield locals, and it is known for its sweet sauce served with tortilla chips. Also popular is the Sancho Enchilada Style a huge burrito that is completely swimming in red enchilada sauce. Kids love the chicken fingers. Hours vary by location. $ L D K

PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, 417-823-7180; 3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-890-1212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com. Diners love the pollo abovado, an ounce chicken breast that’s grilled and topped with home made chori o, 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. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D WIFI KM☎

PURPLE BURRITO 1700 S. Campbell Ave., Suite A, Springfield, 417-8636688. We love the street style tacos. The pastor taco with onions and cilantro is great. And the fish tacos are some of our favorite fish tacos anywhere. A dinner fa vorite is the carne asada burrito. For something a little

different and a lot indulgent, try the super cheesy chili relleno burrito. Open Mon. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K M

TEAM TACO 1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf.com. Let the ruby red building be your guiding beacon to a vor packed tacos, nachos and rice bowls. This tiny cafe serves ma or avors in its set taco menu and tequi la focused cocktails. We’re fans of the lobetrotter pork belly taco, and we always have to taste test the Ringer, the shop’s weekly special taco. We also love the tequila and me cal based cocktails that pair so well with those tasty tacos. Open Mon. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D

TINGA TACOS 308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8007, tingatacossgf.com. This downtown taco shop is open late slinging shells of its wildly creative combinations. We are partial to the Fu Yu made with super avorful mar inated tofu or the Fruity Piggles with uicy pork and fig am for a salty sweet combination. Sides are great too, with options like cheesy corn, alapeno corn and great queso. Open Tue. Wed., a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat., a.m. a.m. $ L D

TORTILLERIA PERCHES 1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-864-8195. This tiny little authentic Me ican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a Me ican soda, a traditional Me ican soup or a tamale when you visit. Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays and Tamale Thursdays, where the dishes are only a dollar. Open Tue. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B LD

PAN AS AN

OCEAN ZEN, please see listing on p. 101 TASIA 4728 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-890-6789. Pan-Asian. Four Asian cuisines are represented on this restaurant’s menu Japanese, Thai, Korean and Chinese. The fresh spring rolls are great here, espe cially with peanut sauce. The curry dishes are always a good bet. Open daily a.m. p.m. Mon. Sat., p.m. $ L D K

PIZZA

ARRIS’ PIZZA 1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-7260, arrispizzaonline.com. Thin crust pi as have a reek air at Arris’ Pi a. Be sure to order the Athena a pi a made with feta, pepperoni, olives, mushrooms and green peppers if you want to try one that bursts with avor. The bruschetta is a great appeti er, and it’s unlike bruschetta we’ve had other places. Open Tue. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m., p.m. $–$$ L D M

THE BIG SLICE 1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-720-4108; thebigslicMA .COM

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DINING GUIDE espringfield.com. You can get big New York style brick oven pi a by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer, but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pi a. Open daily, a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

CARMINE’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA 524 South Joplin Avenue, Joplin, 417-691-8523, carmineswoodfiredpizza.com. You can find truly e cel lent New York style, Neapolitan style and Detroit style pi a at Carmine’s. We love Neapolitan the best, and the La Rughetta topping combo mo arella, prosciutto, grape tomatoes, shaved Parmesan and arugula is our favorite. Don’t miss the tasty cal ones, pasta dishes, and gelato while you are there. Open Tues. Thu. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ LD

GARBO’S PIZZERIA 2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417883-9010, garbospizzeria.com. f you love a loaded St. Louis style pi a, try the randiose. Or try the Bavarian pi a for something a little different it is topped with Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M

MASO PIZZA BAR 3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1047. Maso Pi a Bar is owned by Nicola ilardi and located ust a few door down from his other restaurant, Nicola’s Ristorante. And ust like at Nicola’s, everything on the menu is delish. We can’t wait to try options like the Nic Rise and Shine, talian Stallion and vegetarian friendly Monica Healthy pies. Open Mon. Sat., p.m. close. $$ D WIFI

MCSALTY’S PIZZA CAFÉ 1550 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-4324. A mainstay in Springfield, McSalty’s serves delicious pi a and has been part of the Springfield landscape forever. The Bear Pie is a tasty supreme that’s loaded up with lots of toppings. There are also sub sand wiches. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI M ☎

PAPPO’S PIZZERIA 221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-1111; 900 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-306-9091; pappospizzeria.com. Try the spicy chicken Cholula pie topped with a mi ture of red sauce and olive oil, grilled chicken marinated in Cholula sauce, garlic, mo a rella cheese, red onions, cilantro. Open Mon. Wed., a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat., a.m. a.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

ROCCO’S PIZZA & SUBS Multiple 417-land locations; roccospizzaandsubs.com. This talian eatery speciali es in New York style pi a that has anybody who’s been to the east coast swoon ing. t’s legit. Also on the menu are hot subs, like meat ball or eggplant Parmesan, plus salads, cal ones and a handful of pasta entrees. $–$$ L D

PUBS, LOUN ES & BARS

ANDY B’S TIKI BAR 433 Promenade Way, Branson, 417-213-8631, bransontikibar.com. Big news for lovers of island style bevs and casual hangout spots Andy B’s Tiki Bar has opened on Branson Landing, and it’s an e tension of Springfield’s Andy B’s Bowl Social. Andy B’s Tiki Bar has a view of Lake Taneycomo, where guests can or der tiki drinks, beer and other drinks. Open Mon. Sat. noon p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $

THE CELLAR 507 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-351-2824, thecellar. springfieldbrewingco.com. Created by the team behind Springfield Brewing Company and located ust around the corner from it , The Cellar is a casual set ting for small bites and creative cocktails. Munch on popcorn garnished with fresh Parmesan and house made portobello erky while you sip on a craft cocktail and en oy a rotation of live music. Open Weds. Sun. p.m. $ D

CELLAR + PLATE 2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-894-2003, cellarandplate.com. Start your meal with the Romesco ouda Dip tomatoes, garlic, red peppers, paprika, almonds and smoked ouda. Or try the Spanish meat balls. And as you might guess from the name, the wine selection is wonderful. Open Tue. Thu., p.m. Fri., p.m. Sat., noon p.m. $ L D WIFI M V

At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433. Just across the street from Branson Landing at the Hilton Branson Convention Center is Clear Lounge, a great place to grab a cock tail with friends. This spot is home to tasty food, good music and fun drinks. Hours vary open p.m. at press time. D

GALLOWAY STATION

PIZANO’S PIZZA 106 E. Jackson St., Willard, 417-742-5115, pizanoandsauce.com. You can get a little bit of New York up in Willard at this pi eria. This spot serves New York style pi a in addition to cal ones, sub sandwiches 417 MAGAZINE

PIZZA HOUSE 312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-881-4073. This restaurant has been a tradition in Springfield for more than years, and the pi a they serve is super thin and cut into super tiny pieces. t’s a classic that’s not to be missed and is a favorite of lifelong locals. Our fa vorite thing there any pi a that includes bacon. Open Tue. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI

CLEAR LOUNGE

THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB 2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-368-0277. With a menu full of pi a, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pub fare and a killer beer selection, there’s something to please everyone. We love to build our own pi a with alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. Restaurant open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. pub open later. $ $ L D M WIFI K

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and pasta. Dough is made fresh daily, and there’s even a gluten free option. Tue. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., p.m. $–$$ L D

MA .COM

1281 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-9730. We love the Ra un Ca un burger it’s big, hearty and always delicious. Plus, we can’t get enough of the fries and freshly made potato chip. Order them with a side

of the spicy ranch dressing for dipping. The chicken wraps are another longtime customer favorite at alloway Station, and there’s a reason for it. t’s a clas sic. Kitchen open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m $ L D K

THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB 137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-425-5162, thegoldengirl.com. This tiki bar located right on the southwest corner of Park Central Square with a great people watching patio space serves up handcrafted cocktails and a made from scratch, eclectic, interna tionally inspired menu. Try the Thai sticky wings for an unusual twist on a bar staple. As for drinks, every thing on the menu is reliable well done. Our favorite Mr uava Lava, which is both fruity and spicy. Open Tue. Sat., p.m. a.m. $ L D WIFI

J.O.B. PUBLIC HOUSE 319 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-831-1158. Currently at J.O.B., you can find a small menu filled with favorites from both the rad School and J.O.B. menus. The two spots have the same owner and combined in the J.O.B. space during the pandemic. What does that mean for the menu Well, you can look for items like the famously craveable pi a balls and the uicy Full Ride burger. En oy them on the patio. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. a.m. Sat., noon a.m. $ L D

LINDBERG’S TAVERN 318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-868-8900, lindbergsbar.com. Forget about basic bar food. This storied watering hole goes above and beyond with creative takes on hearty comfort food classics. The burgers are delicious, but honestly everything we’ve tried has been impressive. The specials are always beautifully creative, and the Sunday brunch is one of the best around. Open Tue. Sat., a.m. a.m. Sun., p.m. midnight. $ L D M WIFI V

THE ROYAL 1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, 417-351-3029, theroyalmusichall.com. This tiny and downright beauti ful spot serves bottled cocktails and finger foods like warm olives or rosemary and bitters gla ed nuts. Later on when COV D restrictions lift, e pect to see tons of live music too. Open Tues. Thurs. p.m. Fri. Sat. p.m. midnight. $

SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY 305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-832-8277, 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. Tue. Sun. kitchen open Sun., a.m. p.m Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. bar close daily at p.m. $$ B L D WIFI K M V

SWEET BOY’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR 310 South Ave., Springfield, 417-719-4224, sweetboysbar.com. Come for pinball, a laid back atmosphere and a small but very well done cocktail list. For something more like dessert, try the HellBoy, a fro en rish coffee with a Fat Boy’s ice cream sandwich. Open Weds. Sat. p.m. close Sun. noon close. $

VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY 260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-851-1768; rooftopvantage.com. This rooftop bar at Hotel Vandivort

DINING GUIDE has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and even offers dining igloos in the winter so you can en oy the scene all year long. The cocktails are refresh ingly creative and classically well done, and the menu of shareables and snacks bring the concept of bar food up several notches with items like duck confit atbread and ahi tuna poke. Open Tues. Weds. p.m. midnight, Thurs. Sat. p.m. a.m. $$

VINO CELLARS WINE SHOP & LOUNGE 2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-773-1985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417773-1985, vcellars.com. Small plates, snacks and tapas make up the menu at this comfortable spot. Springfield open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. or later Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. or later Branson West open Tue. Thu., a.m. p.m. or later Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. or later $ L D WIFI

SEAFOOD & F SH

CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL, please see listing p. 100

ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT Call for directions to the ranch in Rockbridge; 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com. This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that speciali es in all things trout. The super fresh fish dishes are made with trout that are caught on the property. We love the trio appeti er, which comes with trout salad, smoked trout and a trout dip that is so craveable For an entree, try the blackened trout dish. Open daily a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K M ☎

fine dining atmosphere. The sides are delicious too. After your steakhouse dinner, hop over to the casino for some gaming fun. Open Sun. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. $$ D ☎

RERICO BRAZILIAN GRILL 3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-881-8882, rericogrill.com. Are you a huge fan of all things meaty Try kinds of meat for dinner, all sliced tableside. Dinner comes with beef soup, soft rolls and unlim ited trips to the cold bar with things like fresh cheese, pasta salads and more. Open daily at a.m. Closing time varies seasonally $ L D WIFI K M ☎

SALTGRASS STEAKHOUSE 801 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-334-0325, saltgrass.com. This spot serves classic steakhouse fare, but with a bit of a Southwest cowboy twist. Try the center cut filet topped with saut ed mushrooms, or the loaded cheese fries appeti er. f you’re in the mood for southern comfort food, they also have coun try fried steak. Open Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D ☎

WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE 1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com. Come to Joplin’s Wilder’s Steakhouse to find steaks in all si es 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. Open Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. $$$ D ☎

TEA ROOMS

cious Thai tastes in a co y atmosphere with a shady patio out back. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig into the entrees with an order of delicious curry noodles or a spicy curry option. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m., p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m., p.m. Sun., noon p.m., p.m. $–$$ L D K

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. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m., p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m., p.m. $–$$ L D K

THAI EXPRESS 2113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-865-0101, 417thaiexpress.com .When you visit this friendly spot, don’t miss the Magic Noodle, mango curry chicken and volcano shrimp dishes. The green curry is delicious, with a sauce so divine you might ust want to drink it. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

TONG’S THAI RESTAURANT 3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-889-5280. This spot serves up a menu packed with tasty Thai avors, and the Esarn lettuce wraps are a longtime customer favorite. The fried basa with your choice of one of Tong’s yummy sauces is another fan fave. Full bar. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Mon. Sat., p.m. $–$$ L D WIFI ☎

THE WHEELHOUSE 1845 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-430-0400, wheelhousefood.com. The pineapple fried rice is a fan favorite at this Thai Me ican fusion spot, but you re ally can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun, a.m. p.m. $ B L D V

WHITE RIVER FISH HOUSE

BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM

5 Bass Pro Drive, Branson, 417-243-5100, whiteriverfishhouse.com. The freshwater fish is great, especially the almond crusted trout or cornmeal fried catfish. Try the salt and pepper calamari for an appeti er, or dig into the smoked fish dip. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ L D K M

1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-866-5533, bethsbakeshoppe.com. Try a chicken salad sandwich served on cinnamon raisin bread. And we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette, and the gigantic couscous salad loaded with fresh veggies and feta. Tea room is open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. bakery open a.m. p.m. $ L K M

STEAK

MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM

BAMBU

JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 101

211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-886-7000, 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 great desserts. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Bakery is open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L WIFI M

1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-9881. The pho is a specialty here. You can add spice, herbs, alape os and sprouts to customi e it. Our favorite Use all of the herbs, a couple of alape os and a squirt of Sriracha. Don’t miss the bun bowls too Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI K ☎

LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 101

SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM

3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-883-9999, phokimspringfield.com. Here you can fill up on Vietnamese staples like pho, spring rolls, bahn mi sandwiches and more at Pho Kim. We love the fresh spring rolls too. Open Mon. and Wed. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI

CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR, please see listing p. 100

FLAME STEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 100

OUTBACK STEAK & OYSTER BAR 1914 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-6306, outbackbranson.com. There are plenty of standout dishes at this Australian themed steakhouse and oyster bar. Outback serves hand cut, aged steaks using Certified Hereford Beef raised locally. Open daily at a.m. Closing time varies seasonally. $$ L D WIFI K

107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331. The homemade desserts are to die for. Be sure to order them quickly before they run out like you might want to order them before you order entrees Don’t miss the veggie sandwich, the strawberry soup or the chicken salad. Open Tue. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L K

THA

RED OAK STEAKHOUSE

RAMA THAI CAFÉ

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

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 deli

V ETNAMESE

PHO KIM

PHO SAIGON 2640 E. 32nd St., Joplin, 417-627-9966. Come to this spot to indulge in fresh spring rolls, vermicelli noodle bowls, and big helpings of pho with lots of fresh veg gies on the side. You can also order boba tea with top pings like tapioca boba, coffee elly and more. Open Mon. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI MA .COM

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PROMOTION

Giving back to the community is one of 417 Magazine’s highest priorities, and each month we support local non-profit organizations that keep 417-land thriving. These organizations and events contribute to the betterment of 417-land. 417 Magazine is proud to support these events hosted by charities and organizations that create Good TIMES for a Great cause.

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ood Gcause. reat GTimes. PROMOTION

Join us for the premier fall event! Spend a memorable evening with friends enjoying dinner, live music, and inspirational stories as we raise funds to develop and support local at-risk youth through I Pour Life’s LifeStrengths program.

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ood Gcause. reat GTimes. PROMOTION

6th Annual

CASAblanca

at the Glendalough Center

Friday, September 9 at 5:30 p.m.

RSVP at

casaswmo.org or call 417.864.6202

Get your tickets before they’re gone! “I think it’s the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”

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417 MAGAZINE • 417MAG.COM

ood Gcause. reat GTimes. PROMOTION

presents

The Longest Table September 11, 2022

at Metropolitan Grill

2931 E. Battlefield | Springfield

Join us in helping families transitioning into Sponsored By

Presented By

the evening of

Saturday, September 24, 2022 Least Of These, Inc. Food Pantry ∙ 1720 James River Road, Ozark

self-sufficiency through our food and wine fundraiser! The Longest Table features the culinary talents and imagination of Pat Duran and his Metropolitan Grill staff. Since 1981, the mission of Help Give Hope is to help needy families have a brighter future. For more information, visit helpgivehope.org/longesttable.

Sponsored by Evening Sponsor Bobby Allison

Main Course

Benjamin F. Edwards/ Tim & Kim Reese David O’Reilly Mike Ingram Rosalie Wooten

Appetizers

Mary Beth & Charlie O'Reilly John Wyrsch Regent Bank Mercy

Cocktails

Loomer Rentals Gorman-Scharph Funeral Home Great Southern Bank Magers Management 417 Magazine 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

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[ PEOPLE PICS ]

ARTSFEST One of the biggest outdoor art festivals in Southwest Missouri, Artsfest celebrated local artists’ work in this two day festival with live entertainment, delicious food and art from all over the country.

Aaron & Mari Shank

Anita Detherow & Alex Detherow

Brenna Hancock, Crystal Johnson & Megan Kemna

Steven Kuenz & Kathy Smith

Debby Uhlis Parsons & Jadra Parsons

Nancy Longo & Anne Schleisman

Laurel Gouldie & Matt Kenney

Meredeth Baker & David Bigelow

Date May 7-8 Host Organization Springfield Regional Arts Council Location Downtown Springfield

Sponsors Great Southern Bank, Mercy, MidWest Family Marketing, 417 Magazine, Thompson, Russell Cellular, Brokate Janitorial, DeLong Plumbing Heating & Air, Heart of America Beverage Company, Ozarks Bottling Company, Andy B’s, Ridewell Suspensions, The Center for Plastic Surgery, Connell Insurance, Inc., Pitt Technology Group, Sun Solar, Complete Electrical Solutions, Quantum Fiber, Renewal by Andersen, Wickman’s Garden Village, Springfield Art Museum, Kay E. Knipschild Family Dentistry, Kum & Go, SS&B Heating and Cooling

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Photos by Ryan Kowalski

Attire Casual

[ PEOPLE PICS ]

SYMPHONY NIGHT FEVER Christine & Mark Sample

Denice & Justin Rankin

Springfield Symphony’s 12th Annual Gala, Symphony Night Fever, included a night of music, live and silent auctions, food and dancing. All proceeds of the event went toward funds for artistic programming, performances and educational concerts. Date May 14 Host Organization Springfield Symphony

Janet Ellison, Mitzi Hodge & Debbie Wessel

Jeff McConville, Regina Williams & Ned Reynolds

Location Oasis Hotel and Convention Center

Photos by Ryan Kowalski

Attire Semi-formal

Jenna Shore, Cori & Zach Fincher

Judy & Scott Foley

Leslie Tucker & Roman Tripp

Michael & Andrea Nesbitt 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

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YOUR BEST SHOT

Through the Mist PHOTO BY THOMAS LEONARD | @LEONARDPHOTO Photojournalist with KY3 News and hobbyist photographer Thomas Leonard captured this foggy photo near the Joe Creighton access point of the James River, in southeast Springfield. “As a photographer, mornings are my favorite time of the day because you never quite know what you’re going to get,” Leonard says. “On this day, it was a cool, foggy morning, and I just happened to be driving in the area.” 120

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FREE PICKUP & DELIVERY You’re busy. Trust Rick’s Automotive to handle the bumps in the road.

PROVIDING SERVICE

YOU CAN TRUST

SINCE 1980

Book online: ricksautomotive.com 417-887-2225 2121 S. Campbell Avenue One block south of Bass Pro Shops