417 Magazine | 417mag.com 111 S. astgate Ave., Springfield, O 417 7417 a 417 7417
The pastor tacos from Little Hacienda feature adobo pork topped with pineapple and guacamole salsa.
76 iscover the dishes and families ehind some of 417 land s most eloved e ican restaurants like Se or ulian e ican ar rill, l uet al estaurant akery and Cesar s Old e ico.
TT T SSA COO
LAKESHORE LODGE
92
ead a out atie and Andy arnes and their lakehouse in Shell no , nicknamed Lakeshore Lodge, that dou les as an Air n . TT AT A O L
Our Octo er issue s cover story is all a out Our ild laces. e highlight the people and organiations working to conserve and preserve the eautiful, natural places in the O arks. ou can get the issue delivered to your mail o y heading to 417mag.com/subscribe on the cover e photographed this issue s colorful cover at l scondite. The food looks delish, ut we re in love with that pu erfish cup too
LIFE
24 SPLISH SPLASH
Cool o at our roundup of the est fountains and water ones for splashing around.
30 GETAWAY TO SEDALIA
Take a trip to Sedalia for the issouri State air and sample a gu er urger.
32 CLIMBING THE LADDER
vans ood Company provides products for ig name companies like isney orld from Springfield.
33 HELPING HANDS
Least of These ood antry prepares for the ack to school rush and upcoming holiday season.
35 TRUE COLORS
righten up your look with a personali ed color analysis from aus of Chroma.
37 SUMMER FUN
ill your August calendar with concerts, outdoor events and festivals to cele rate the last of summer.
OUTSIDE
65 ROCK THE BOAT
Our favorite ways to spend the day on local lakes.
66 GRAND SLAM
iscover rand ulf State ark, home to natural ridges and eautiful stretches of land.
67 HAPPY HARVEST
eap a eautiful harvest throughout the year y planting veggies that thrive in fall s cooler temps.
TASTE
102 COMEBACK KID
.O. . u lic ouse is ack and etter than ever with familiar eloved dishes and a new whisky cocktail menu.
104 HOLY GUACAMOLE ind out what makes the Avocado Toast from The orkshop at inley arms one of our new favorite dishes.
105 SHOP TILL YOU DROP
o o the eaten path to our roundup of in 1 caf s and outi ues.
106 IN A PICKLE
ake a atch of super easy uick pickles with summertime s harvest.
Our Family Serving Yours Since 1977
Make your home uniquely you with our complimentary in-home design services!
With our wide selection of furniture styles and hundreds of fabric and leather options, your perfect look for your home will be fun to create. We’re here to help and can’t wait to meet you!
417-582-0909 MissouriFurniture.com
Located just South of Spring eld off Highway 65 at 1881 W. James River Rd., Ozark
LONG WEEKEND AHEAD
417 land is filled with adventures, whether you re looking for adventures outdoors or something more la y and laid ack. et a head start on your plans for the ne t long weekend y visiting 417mag. com/laborday to take a look at the out and
indoor adventures waiting for you this La or ay weekend. rom lakeside getaways at Ta le ock and swimming holes in the wilds of the O arks, to foodie favorites old and new and plenty more things to do, you ll find more than enough to fill your itinerary.
[ INSIDER INFO ]
On the Web
ind these stories and get the scoop on what s happening in 417 land at 417mag.com
FALL FEST SEASON
t s almost time for en oying cooler weather, fair food, pumpkin carving, tractor pulls and more at 417 land s many fall festivals. Check out our guide to what s coming up at 417mag.com/fallfests
CELEBRATE THE BEST IN THE BIZ oin Biz 417 at the Oasis otel Convention Center to cele rate the 4 est laces to ork on Septem er 1 . ind the details at biz417.com/ bestplaces
Turning a New Page
This copy of 417 Magazine that you hold in your hand is pretty special—and not just because you’re going to be craving Mexican food as soon as you put it down. It’s special because over the past year we have been working on a redesign of the magazine and a rebrand for our logo. Why? Well, after 26 years in business, it felt like time for a glow up! When you receive your copy of 417 Magazine in Septemer, you ll notice a few key di erences
UPDATED LOGO
Our new logo and the entire magazine’s look both feel more current.
EVERYTHING OZARKS
There’s even more local love for what makes our region great.
MORE HOME CONTENT
We’re debuting an “At Home” section in each issue to expand our home and design content.
READING EXPERIENCE
A fresh new design, typeface and layout changes enhance your reading experience.
You can still expect us to
• Celebrate and spotlight the culture, people and places unique to our area
• Be part of the conversation, ingrained in current goings-on
• Show unapologetic love for the Ozarks and optimism for our future
Here’s what’s important for you to know
We’re not changing who we are. Our mission and vision are the same. With this redesign, we’re elevating the reader experience, creating a deeper sense of place and leaning even more into our role as the cheerleader of 417-land. I hope you enjoy lingering over this beautiful August edition of 417, and I look forward to sharing all of our updates with you next time!
Logan Aguirre Publisher | logan@417mag.com
by Katy
Photo
St. Clair
[ EDITOR’S NOTE ]
LABORS OF LOVE
No matter where you are in 417-land, you don’t have to go far to nd craveable Mexican food. There are two excellent Mexican restaurants within walking distance of my house alone—which is great when you want to spend a few minutes walking o all those chips you dunked into homemade salsa during your feast.
It’s a good thing our region has so many spots to o er for fajitas and more because there are so many moments in life that just beg for a trip to your favorite Mexican restaurant: happy hour with friends (margaritas, please!), birthday dinners (end with a sopapilla; the birthday boy/girl deserves it!) or even just Tough Tuesdays (that’s when you have a long, hard day that can only be xed by turning it into a Taco Tuesday).
Both times I was pregnant, Mexican food was a frequently requested meal. Where else do they give you the salty-carby-goodness of a bowl of hot chips the moment you sit down? Find me a pregnant woman who won’t swoon at that gesture.
The best part about our local Mexican food scene is that every restaurant or food truck has its own personality, and every customer has a favorite that feels like “their” spot. One of the restaurants near my house is a sure bet for a happy and welcoming hello from the sta that makes me feel at
home the second I walk in. That one is the one that feels like “my” spot.
If you love Mexican cuisine as much as I do and want to learn about the families pouring all their skill and love into the meals they make, turn to our feature on p. 76.
Oh, and speaking of love: 417 Magazine has been working on our own labor of love for almost a year now, and we are dying to show it to you. Make sure you get your hands on the September edition next month to see the rst issue featuring the magazine’s redesign. We love it so much and hope you will too!
My Favorite Page, 63
This image is giving me boat day dreams. August is my favorite month to boat around on Table Rock Lake. Why, you ask ell, after a usy and e citing summer filled with camps and vacations, a boat day feels like the perfect, leisurely cherry on top of a season spent on the water.
by Brandon Alms
Photo
To send us feedback or story ideas, email editor@417mag.com
IT WAS A GREAT SHOT!
May was such a great month, but the highlight was having my feature published in 417 Magazine and making it on the cover. There were a couple of things that I dreamed of happening when I became a photographer, and this was one of them.
Morgan Lea Smith
Morgan’s dreamy shot of the barn at Sycamore Creek Family Ranch graced the cover of our May 2024 edition. Find the feature (and see more of Morgan’s photography) online at 417mag.com.—Editor
THEY’RE SO PUNNY
This was really fun! Special thanks to the 417 Magazine team for putting up with our ridiculous jokes. Nice to know there is one time a year dad jokes are tolerated.
Dakota Crow
Dakota Crow (husband of Marketing Director Annah Crow) was one of three 417 Magazine dads who starred in our Reel about dad jokes. —Editor
CORRECTION
In the July 2024 edition, Dr. Matthew Earl Simpson’s name was mistakenly left off the Top Doctors list. Dr. Simpson should have been listed as winner in General Surgery in Springfield and as runner up in Bariatric Surgery, Laparoscopic Surgery and Trauma Surgery in Springfield. He now practices at Mercy Lebanon. 417 Magazine regrets the errors.
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, the Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce, the Home Builders Association of Springfield and the Republic Area Chamber of Commerce.
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.
Don
Gary
1. BRYCE CANYON, UTAH
and LaVeda Berry brought their copy of the 2024 “Best of 417” issue with them to Bryce Canyon, Utah.
2. HALLSTATT, AUSTRIA
and Nadine Moss and Nancy and Dick Bartow brought their copy of the “Where to Live Now” issue to Austria.
3. UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA
Gary and Joan Whitaker traveled to see the Taj Mahal at sunset with their copy of the “Where to Eat Now” issue.
1. TULUM, MEXICO
The 417 Travel team brought their copy of the “Where to Live Now” issue to Neek Tulum Beach Club.
2. BAVARIA, GERMANY
Tammy and David Sawyers took their copy of the “Ozark Caves” issue with them to Edelweiss Military Resort.
4. BARCELONA, SPAIN
Chip and Teresa McGeehan took their copy of the “Where to Live Now” issue to the Mediterranean Sea.
3. KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA
Len Ahrnsbrak and Fran Fortin brought their copy of the “Where to Live Now” issue with them to Florida.
where’s 417?
1.
Gail Ralya took her copy of the “Pickleball Is Life” issue with her to the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix.
2. BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
Elizabeth VanFosson took her copy of the “Summer on the Farm” issue to DUMBO, Brooklyn.
3. ZÜRICH, SWITZERLAND
Bob and Della Hosutt took their copy of the “Best of 417” issue with them on their trip to Switzerland.
PHOENIX, ARIZONA
1. ATHENS, GREECE
Carl Singer and Reggie Oberttook brought their copy of the “Giving Back” issue with them to the Parthenon in Athens.
2. DEATH VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
Joyce White, Terry Turkington, Gary Amstutz and Debbie Carroll took their copy of the “Where to Live Now” issue to Death Valley National Park.
3. O’AHU,
HAWAII
Holly and Dayton Loven traveled to Hawaii for Holly’s birthday with their copy of the “Summer on the Farm” issue.
ON POINT, 27
GEARING UP, 33
FLYING COLORS, 35
horsing AROUND
Head to Sedalia for the Missouri State Fair for motorsports, live music, rodeo and bull riding. Read more on p. 30.
best SPLASH ZONES
Bring your kids (or your inner child) to these ve fountains and water zones for a refreshing afternoon of splish-splashing fun.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
by Brandon
Ozark Stream & Fountain at Jordan Valley Park is the perfect spot to cool down this summer.
Photo
Alms
1
OZARK STREAM & FOUNTAIN
Where to Find It: Jordan Valley Park
Who to Bring: The wild child
Why They’ll Love It: Not only is there wet and splashy fun at this location, there’s also an expansive lawn of green grass. Kids can race around the green space and work up a sweat, then dash into the fountain to get caught in the circle of cool geysers at the bottom of a streamlike fountain that cascades down the hill.
2
JUMPING FOUNTAINS
Where to Find It: Farmers Market of the Ozarks
Locations in Springfield, Ozark and Nixa suntancity.com
Who to Bring: The antsy kid who hates to shop Why They’ll Love It: While you pick out the perfect tomato and fill your market asket with the freshest bell peppers, you can remind your grumbling kiddos that they’ll get to hop around the splash pad—if they can just stick it out until you’re done shopping!
3
COCONUT COVE
Where to Find It: White Water
Who to Bring: The littlest kids in your crew Why They’ll Love It: Grownups and big kids get to explore so many thrills at White Water, but the toddler-size crew can have a fun day in the sun too if they head straight to Coconut Cove. This area is reserved for kids 48 inches or shorter and features a few mini waterslides, fountains, tipping buckets and more.
4
JUMPING JEWELS
Where to Find It: Dickerson Park Zoo Who to Bring: The animal lover Why They’ll Love It: To get to the Jumping Jewels splash pad, kiddos have to trek through Dickerson Park Zoo and spy some of the world’s coolest animals along the way. Once at the splash pad, they can leap through spouting geysers and small tipping buckets to cool down before heading back out to explore the zoo.
5 FIREHOUSE SPLASH YARD
Where to Find It: Silver Dollar City Who to Bring: The miniature thrill-seeker Why They’ll Love It: The FireHouse Splash Yard is located inside the Fire District area at Silver ollar City, so it s themed to fit the area and is outfitted with s uirting fire hoses and other fun water features. And its location in the Fire District also means that it’s not very far from the new-this-year revamped Fire in the Hole. Kids can get their splash on and then check out the other rides.
agenda
Make this month count! School is starting soon, and it’s your last chance to make the most of summer’s easygoing days with your kiddos.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
SAY YES TO A YES DAY
Treat your kids to a whole day where the answer is never, ever “no.”
Have you heard of Yes Days yet? A Yes Day is all about spontaneity and letting kids spend a day feeling like they’re the ones in charge. It starts with you setting up a few simple ground rules—like placing limits on the amount of money you’ll spend or making sure everyone is crystal clear on the fact that you will not be acquiring any new live pets. After that, you let the kids take the lead, and you say “yes” to anything they ask to do. A few of my friends have indulged in Yes Days with their kids, but I still haven’t taken the plunge. To see how it might go, I asked my 11-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter what they’d choose if they could plan a Yes Day. Here’s what they picked—and, honestly, it sounds do-able! I think I see a Yes Day in our future.
First Up: Playing in the stream at Busiek State Forest & Wildlife Area. My kids love this place. It’s simple (and free!) but still feels like a relaxing
break. They love to nd a good spot on the gravel bar and entertain themselves skipping rocks, looking for impressive stones to take home, hunting for crawdads and kicking around in the water.
Second: Lunch at Dru ’s. My son will always, always request a jalapeño-laden Good Doctor grilled cheese from Dru ’s if he has the chance. My daughter likes the strawberry wa e. But me? My favorite part is that there are giant Julie Blackmon prints on the walls.
Next: Game time at Village Meeple. This board game cafe is so much fun, no matter how old your kids are. Mine love it. And it’s just as much fun for adults and everybody in between. They have hundreds of board games you can play, so there’s always something new to try.
And Finally: Treats from Lucky Cat Boba & Taiyaki. What’s not to love about build-your-own boba tea drinks and adorable little sh-shaped wa es with sweet llings? It’s the ultimate indulgence, as far as my kids are concerned—and a great way to end a day of fun.
friendly COMPETITION
Take your kids on a mini golf tour through Spring eld and Branson for some nal fun in the sun moments.
In our opinion, one of the best places to burn o some energy, let your inner competitive spirit fly and soak up some itamin is at a mini golf course. These three spots o er something for ust about any personality.
A Modern Mini Golf Stop GETAWAY GOLF
3833 E. State Highway D, Springfield, facebook. com/getawaygolf
Themed to feel like a mini trip around the globe, Getaway Golf features obstacles modeled after monuments and sites from cities the world over. There are also some tasty concessions (churros for the kids, beer and hard seltzer for the grown-ups). There’s even live music on Tuesday nights until the end of summer.
A Trip Down Memory Lane FUN ACRE
214 W. Glenwood St., Springfield, funacre.net un Acre is tucked away ust o Camp ell Avenue, and what it lacks in bells and whistles it makes up for in pure, unadulterated nostalgia. It’s the kind of super-simple, no-frills fun that makes summertime so sweet. And the price is pretty old-school too; it’s only $2.50 for kids and $3.00 for adults to play. Bonus for the sportier kids in your crew: There are batting cages on-site too.
A Swashbuckling Theme
PIRATES COVE ADVENTURE GOLF
2901 Green Mountain Dr., Branson, piratescove.net
There are two 18-hole courses tucked into the hillside at Pirate’s Cove, and every hole is built for buccaneers. They’ll get to cross a giant ship, duck into a cave under a waterfall and lots more. Even the adjoining building is pirate-themed, with faux pirates scaling the walls.
During lunch rush, Staff Photographer and Designer
Katy St. Clair snaps a shot for the the cover story at Cesar’s Old Mexico.
FRONT AND CENTER
staff poll
JAMI WIGHTMAN Senior Account Executive
“You can’t go wrong with Mexican in 417-land! There are so many to love!
I’m going to go with Brother’s Tacos in Nixa. It’s a little hole in the wall type of place, so if you’re going for atmosphere this wouldn’t be it. However, their birria tacos are the very best!” [ BEHIND THE SCENES ]
JO JOLLIFF Research Editor
“You can’t beat Iguana Roja in downtown Ozark. The cozy ambiance and a big bowl of their Queso Fundido Loco (a baked dish with caramelized onion and chorizo) are incomparable. Plus, their chips are ‘fairy-dusted’ with their uni ue take on a chili powder seasoning that makes them addictive.”
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEXICAN STA A T 417 LA
KATHY GRIEVE
Account Services Manager
“I love going to Team Taco on Cherry Street. What is there not to love? They have a delightful atmosphere and scrumptious food. I love their Groundskeeper Taco with roasted carrots and zucchini in verde sauce— absolutely the best!”
KATY ST CLAIR
Staff
Photographer & Designer
“I could eat Mexican food all day, every day and be happy! If I’m in the mood for a uick and tasty ite, El Puente on Republic Road is my go-to spot. When I’m looking for a little something extra, though, I go to Cesar’s Old Mexico for their shrimp diablo and a giant margarita!”
ALEX OSREDKER
Brand Manager
“I lived in Texas for four years, so I’m pretty picky about Mexican Food—but Señor Julian gets two thumbs up from me. They have a great drink menu, and I have yet to try a dish that wasn’t delicious. My go-to is a strawberry margarita on the rocks.”
KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
Editorial Director
“I can’t pick one! Señor Julian for a sweet family-owned vibe and the best homemade flour tortillas. Or Catrina s for the shrimp stu ed po lano that dreams are made of. Or I Love Tacos for literally any of their tacos, but especially their shrimp tacos with chipotle sauce.”
Photos by Brandon Alms, Grace Chipley-Thompson
what we LEARNED
“I learned that I need to go thrifting more often. The lake house featured on p. 92 is packed with charming vintage finds, and m so impressed y how well those uirky items are used to decorate the home. t s inspiring me to search vintage shops for my own home.”—Editorial Director Katie Pollock Estes (read “Meet Lakeshore Lodge” on p. 92)
hile shooting the uide to e ican feature this month, I learned that we have some incredible Mexican and Latin food in our region! We sampled and photographed dishes from ranson to Carthage, and each one was a unique and delicious experience!”—Staff Photographer & Designer Katy St. Clair (read “Guide to Mexican Food” on p. 76)
“I found so many traditional Mexican dishes to try! love me some classic tacos or uesadillas, ut it s nice having an arsenal of authentic dishes to pull out when want something new —Editorial Designer Grace Chipley (read Guide to Mexican Food on p. 76)
learned to pace myself on yummy chips and salsa so that can save room for the sweet treats on p. 91. —Managing Editor Dori Grinder (read “Guide to Mexican Food” on p. 92)
had no idea so many local products, including my all time favorite ansas City s ack Stack sauce, is manufactured here in Springfield y vans ood Company. I loved learning more about their origin story.”—Research Editor Jo Jolliff (read Taking Local Products National” on p. 32) DESIGN WE CAN’T STOP TALKING ABOUT
dedicated to keeping your family's smiles healthy and bright. From kids to adults, our friendly team o ers expert care for all ages. Whether it's a check-up or a procedure, trust us to provide gentle, comprehensive dentistry you can count on.
t s out with the old and in with the new at 417! This is the last issue you ll see from us with this look. Over a year in the making, our rand new design will e featured in the Septem er issue. With a fresh look and new story types, we are excited for it to make its de ut.
Sedalia BOUND
In a city about two hours north of Spring eld, thousands of visitors make a pilgrimage every summer to celebrate the Missouri State Fair.
While many already know about Sedalia’s fair offerings, there are still plenty of hidden gems to discover throughout the city.
BY ALLIE FREE
1
GO TO THE MISSOURI STATE FAIR
See everything Missouri front and center at the Missouri State Fair (mostatefair.com) held this year from Aug. 8 to 18 at the Missouri State Fairgrounds (2503 W. 16th St., Sedalia). With livestock shows, thrilling rides, live music, rodeo, bull riding, races and more, you’ll have plenty to explore from the Show-Me State during your visit. Ticket costs range from $4–$15 depending on entrant age.
2
ORDER A FAMOUS GUBERBURGER
Sedalia is known for its guberburger (a hamburger topped with mayo, lettuce, tomato and peanut butter). Kehde’s BBQ (1915 S. Limit Ave., Sedalia) serves up guberburgers fresh daily in the vintage rail car that houses the restaurant. Goody’s Steakburgers (901 S. Limit Ave., Sedalia) can’t be missed either—the bright blue exterior of the building, 1960s decor and neon lights define this local classic.
Photo courtesy Missouri State Fair
TRIP INFO
REASON TO GO Missouri State Fair
TRIP LENGTH
One day—no need to pack a bag!
TRAVEL TIME 2 hours
3
EXPLORE THE KATY TRAIL
Boasting the title of the longest developed rail-trail in the country, the Katy Trail clocks in at just under 240 miles; thankfully, you don’t have to walk the whole thing to enjoy it. The trail cuts directly through Sedalia and is easily accessible to walk, bike or even ride a horse through. While there, visit The Katy Depot (600 E. Third St., Sedalia), a preserved train depot that is now a trailhead to the park and museum.
4 VISIT DAUM MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
At the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art (3201 W. 16th Street, Sedalia), you can discover new artistic inspirations, movements and pieces that might make you look at things a little di erently. The Daum displays up to 15 exhibitions annually, has a substantial permanent collection and three exhibition cycles annually. Notable pieces include glazed porcelain triptychs stoneware.
5
SHOP AT THE FARMERS MARKET
Already in town for some exploring? Stop into the Sedalia Area Farmers’ Market (1814 S. Limit Ave., Sedalia) held twice weekly. Pick up some local produce from Beulah Valley Farm and pair it with locally raised meats from MidMo eefalo. Other vendor o erings might also catch your eye: one-of-a-kind metal and crystal jewelry from TdBinks, watercolor paints from Artistic Isle and tacos from Street Treats Food Truck.
Now Enro ing
Hit the Katy Trail (above) then visit the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art (right) during your day of fun in Sedalia.
Grove Salsa Company is one of the first companies Evans Food Company acquired.
Taking Local National
You’ve probably tried Grove Salsa, the locally made condiment that you can nd on local grocery story shelves. But you might not know the guy behind the salsa. Chris Evans, CEO of Evans Food Company, shares his journey starting a foodbased manufacturing and bottling company in Spring eld.
BY JO JOLLIFF
Serving big name clients like Disney World, Springfield’s Mexican Villa and Kansas City’s Jack Stack BBQ was not something Chris Evans, CEO of Evans Food Company, could have foreseen when he first started his company in 2020. “I overcame a lot of struggles and there was a point where my wife and I had to have a garage sale just to buy milk and diapers for our kids,” Evans says. “We had nothing to start off with and now have grown the business to over $2.5 million.”
Evans started off in the food industry working as manager of several chain restaurants locally including Red Lobster, Panda Express and TGI Fridays. The demands of the industry kept him from spending quality time with his family so in 2018, he made his start in the man -
ufacturing world by purchasing MBDR, which produced Hopsing products, famous for their Springfield-style cashew chicken sauce.
He continued to expand the business, purchasing other local companies like Grove Salsa Company, getting it into over 300 Walmarts, 85 Hy-Vees and 80 Schnucks stores.
“It’s cool that we’re able to be promoting our own brands as well as other Missouri-made brands with such a wide reach right here in Springfield,” he says.
While Evans Food Company services dozens of local companies like Tortilleria Perches, Million Dollar Pickles and Mexican Villa, they also service companies with a farther reach like St. Louis-based Taste of the Hill and Kansas Citybased Jack Stack BBQ. One of their most recent
purchases was Greek Island Spice, which they provide to Disney World and Universal Studios. To those currently chasing after their own dreams, Evans gives encouragement to keep working toward their goals. “Live with your highest passion and go after that at all costs, never giving up even if you don’t see the results right away,” he says. “If it’s still exciting and you still have passion for it then go for it with your whole heart.”
Photos by Tessa Cooper
Explore world-class golf, located right here in the Missouri Ozark Mountains! Big Cedar Lodge is home to five Audubon-International certified golf courses showcasing designs for various skill levels. Specifically created for the entire family to enjoy, each of these courses beautifully embrace the natural landscape with exposed rock croppings, waterfalls, and stunning views of the Ozarks.
Local rates available. Don’t see the tee time you want? Scan the code to sign-up for our new tee time waitlist and be notified of openings based on your course preferences.
FEEDING THE COMMUNITY
Least of These Food Pantry is gearing up for the back-to-school season and the holidays. Here’s what you should know.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
Food changes everything,” says Kristy Carter, executive director of Least of These Christian County Food Pantry, which serves 1,400 families a month. At Least of These, people can nd security in knowing they have food, allowing them to direct their nances elsewhere.
Least of These is a choice pantry, which allows people to select the groceries they receive each month from an available menu of items. During their food pickup appointment, individuals receive next month’s food sheet, cross o unwanted items, and the sheet is stored in their le.
Striving for nutritional balance, families receive a variety of meat, fresh produce, canned vegetables, dairy products, eggs and more. The team at Least
of These creates recipe sheets featuring three recipes each month for cooking the food they provide. “We’re trying to help them stretch not only their budget but the foods we give them,” Carter says.
Food Pantry vs. Food Bank
A food pantry di ers from a food bank in that the pantry receives assistance from the bank and directly serves individuals and families. Least of These is a member agency of Ozarks Food Harvest, a food bank serving southwest Missouri. The food bank has the connections and resources to supply the pantries with necessary items, allowing the pantry to purchase foods at a discounted cost based on their needs. The food pantry also receives some donated
items from the food bank. “We couldn’t do what we do without them and many other partners,” Carter says. “We get one to two semi-trucks full of food from them a week, along with truckload donations from Convoy of Hope and others.”
It costs the food pantry just $64 to provide a family with ve to seven days’ worth of food. “If you’ve been to the grocery store lately, you know you can’t buy much for $64,” Carter says. “Being able to leverage and utilize our buying power and relationships is super important for us.”
How to Help
As the back-to-school season approaches, the team at Least of These is busy crafting recipes and menus with items ideal for child-friendly lunches and quick after-school meals. This is also the perfect time to host a drive for Least of These, focusing on items like cereal, canned goods or hygiene products.
Donating money is the most signi cant way to help Least of These, as 68% of their 2023 income came from individual donations, followed by 15% from businesses. Lastly, spread the word! “Word of mouth is the best communication we can give,” Carter says, “and it works the best. We are always in need of donors, volunteers and advocates.”
FEEDING FAMILIES FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Least of These is already sourcing and purchasing food for the holidays, and you can help by purchasing a holiday meal for a family. They anticipate feeding about 1,600 families per month during the holidays. In addition to their regular groceries at a cost of $64 per cart for a family, the Thanksgiving and Christmas meals will cost Least of These an additional $25 per meal per family.
The food pantry is striving to help families achieve nutritional meals by providing recipes with food.
COLOR ANALYSIS
I tried color analysis at Haus of Chroma to help freshen my look and equip me with the tools I need to be a smarter shopper.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
I’m known by friends and family for using bold color and unique color combinations. So, when I saw that color analysis was a trending topic on social media, my interest was of course piqued. While scrolling away online I was greeted with face after face with colorful fabrics draped in front of them to help determine their personal color palette.
With my strong interest in color and a need to freshen up my wardrobe and beauty routine, I sought out someone that could do a color analysis. Mason Gold, owner and stylist of Haus of Chroma
(404-A W. Walnut; 417-501-9272), came highly recommended, and I couldn’t wait to get on his books for my rst ever color analysis experience. After I spoke with Gold brie y on the phone, he encouraged me to bring a friend along for a more fun experience. So, I called one of my fashion-loving girlfriends, Cacey Ball, and got us booked together.
When we arrived for our appointment we were seated near the front window of the salon in front of a lighted oor mirror. There were colorful fabrics draped behind us and other visual aids sitting nearby. I went rst. I sat in front of the mirror as Gold started explaining the process and why he’s so passionate about color analysis. Gold received certication for color analysis from a rigorous program in Germany. Gold says this process is not meant to be overwhelming or to make you go throw away your clothes. It’s simply meant to help you make better choices as a consumer, and to eventually (over several years) create a wardrobe that atters you in the best ways. The rst step was to discover what temperature I look best in. As he began draping colors with cool undertones on me, I couldn’t help but notice how tired I looked and how gray my complexion seemed. When colors with warmer undertones were draped, I could see the pink in my lips come out and my eyes began to sparkle.
We continued to work through the colored fabrics in the Autumn palettes, trying to determine what value and chroma was right for me. Value
is how light, dark or deep a color is and chroma is how soft/muted or clear/bright a color is. After a lot of draping and double checking we determined that I am what they call a Dark Autumn. I learned I look best in dark, muted colors with warm undertones. What I found interesting was that the colors I decorate my home with are part of my palette but have not been part of my wardrobe. For me, black and white are not part of my palette, but creams, mushrooms, navy and brown are. I’m learning to rethink the neutrals in my wardrobe and embrace deep navy as a staple.
Another thing I found interesting is that your palette is your palette for life. It won’t change with hair color, or with or without a tan. He did say that using self-tanner can make color analysis more difcult, so if you’re thinking of doing it, you’ll want to avoid using tanner beforehand.
Seeing how di erent Cacey’s palette was to mine helped the ideas resonate with me more, and it was interesting to experience the other palettes. Cacey looked beautiful in intense and punchy colors with cool undertones.
We left our appointments equipped with more knowledge than we ever expected and with the tools to help us make better beauty and fashion choices. We each got a digital packet with all our colors. Included in the packet were wardrobe colors, hair colors, makeup colors and even metal ideas for jewelry and accessories. All in all, the experience was fun and very enlightening.
Color analysis uses a variety of tools to tell which colors complement the undertones of your skin the best.
AUGUST CALENDAR
This month is packed with live performances, outdoor events and interactive activities for the whole family to soak up the last bits of summer together.
BY ALEX OSREDKER
CALENDAR
OZARK EMPIRE FAIR
THROUGH AUGUST 3
Bring the whole family and enjoy the 88th year of this annual fair, which includes tasty food, a parade, rides, live music, arts, crafts and more.
Ozark Empire Fairgrounds & Event Center, 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield. For more information, visit ozarkempirefair.com.
SUMMER NIGHTS AT SILVER DOLLAR CITY
THROUGH AUGUST 4
Enjoy the long summer evenings at Silver Dollar City with nightly concerts at the Echo Hollow Amphitheatre, dance parties on Main Street and late-night rides on your favorite roller coasters and water rides.
Ticket prices vary; Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy., Branson. Visit silverdollarcity.com for more information and ticket options.
SCOOBY-DOO AND THE LIBRARY CAPER
AUGUST 1, 6–8 P.M.
The Library Center is hosting an interactive mystery quest for teens and tweens, where they’ll help Mystery, Inc. uncover clues, solve puzzles and unravel the mystery of the library.
The Library Center, 4653 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield. For more information, visit programs. thelibrary.org.
NATURALLY LEAVENED BREADS BAKING CLASS
AUGUST 1, 6:30–8:45 P.M.
Learn all the secrets to making the perfect, tasty sourdough loaf during this two-hour class. Attendees will learn about fermentation, shaping, baking and more, and will try their hand at making all-natural sourdough, asiago & onion sourdough, and South African mosbolletjies.
64; Pickwick & Cherry Kitchen, 607 S. Pickwick, Springfield. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit pickwickandcherry.com/events.
Photo by Kyle Davis
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When disaster strikes, rest assured that we are here to support you. Don't worry; give us a call, and we will guide you through the best steps to repair your car.
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Crafting excellence in paintless dent repair while putting you, our valued customer, at the heart of every minor collision, door ding and hail damage story.
WOW SEARENITY YOGA
AUGUST 1, 7:30–8:30 P.M.
Enjoy a one-hour, restorative yoga class while taking in the Open Ocean exhibit at Wonders of ildlife. This rela ing class, led y a certified yoga instructor, is great for all skill levels.
16; Wonders of Wildlife, 500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. To purchase tickets, visit wondersofwildlife.org/event/searenity-yoga.
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
AUGUST 2, 5 P.M.
Immerse yourself in the 417-land art scene and stroll through downtown, exploring local art, music and more on this free, self-guided tour. Free; Downtown Springfield. Visit springfieldarts. org for more information.
THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL: YOUTH EDITION
AUGUST 2 AND 3, TIMES VARY
The Springfield Little Theatre s Summer nstitute presents The SpongeBob Musical: Youth Edition. This musical puts a twist on the television show as SpongeBob and his friends race against the clock to save their homes from a volcano that will soon erupt.
10-15; The Reynolds Auditorium, 237 S. Florence Ave., Springfield. To purchase tickets, visit springfieldlittletheatre.org.
TUSCAN SUMMER BRUNCH
AUGUST 3, 10 A.M.–12:30 P.M.
If you’re a brunch fan and want to learn how to take your cooking skills to the next level, grab your friends and sign up for Pickwick & Cherry’s Tuscan Summer Brunch experience. You’ll learn how to make a mouth watering uiche florentine with spinach and gruyere; farro salad with tomato, basil and olives; cheese and charcuterie mats; arborio rice pudding and more. If you want to spice up the cooking session, bring your favorite oo e they ll have co ee, tea, loody mary mi and orange juice on hand.
69; Pickwick & Cherry Kitchen, 607 S. Pickwick, Springfield. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit pickwickandcherry.com/events.
AARON LEWIS: THE AMERICAN PATRIOT TOUR
AUGUST 3, 6–10 P.M.
Aaron Lewis continues his American Patriot Tour at Black Oak Amphitheater. Put on your western hats and cowboy boots, and enjoy a night of soulful, energetic country music. Lewis has been nominated for multiple awards from both the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association.
39.50–165; Black Oak Amphitheater, 1728 State Highway H, Lampe. To purchase tickets, visit blackoakamp.com/event.
BRANSON LANDING CONCERT SERIES
AUGUST 3 & 31, 7:30 P.M.
All summer long, Branson Landing hosts a concert series with various artists and genres. Bring your crew, set up some lawn chairs and blankets, and enjoy singing songs under the stars. In August, there will be two bands—The Mixtapes, which is a 90s cover band, and Bad Mojo, which mixes southern rock with outlaw country. Free; Branson Landing, 100 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson. For more information, visit explorebranson.com.
GILLIOZ THEATRE HISTORIC TOUR
AUGUST 4, 1:45 P.M.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Gillioz Theatre as you take a tour of the theatre and learn about its history. Plus, if you’re a Producer Level 26 Club Member, you can attend for free. 0–10; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield. To buy tickets, visit gillioztheatre.com.
BIRTHPLACE OF ROUTE 66 FESTIVAL
AUGUST 8–10
Route 66 festival is back for their 88th year. Festivities include a car show, featuring various makes and models, a parade, live music, giveaways, Route 66 exhibits and more. For more car fun, check out the Route 66 Car Museum as well. Free; Route 66 Springfield Visitor Center, 815 E. St. Louis St., Springfield. For more information, visit route66festivalsgf.com.
WHEEL THROWING WITH STEPHANIE ROY
AUGUST 10, 1–4 P.M.
Embrace your creative side with an afternoon of wheel throwing at SPIVA: Center for the Arts. Students will learn the art of making their own clay creations and will be able to take them home at a later date, after the pro ects have een kiln fired. 60; George A. Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. 7th St., Joplin. To purchase tickets and for more information visit spivaarts.org/event/wheel-throwing-with-stephanie-roy.
FINLEY RIVER MOVIE NIGHT: KUNG FU PANDA IV
AUGUST 10, 6:30 P.M.
Enjoy a night with the family at Finley River Park watching Kung Fu Panda IV. Pack a blanket, some snacks and a few drinks, or bring your appetite and snag something from one of the food trucks.
Free; concessions open 6:30 p.m.; movie begins 8:30 p.m.; Finley River Park, 891 N. Riverside Rd., Ozark. For more information, visit ozarkmissouri. com/333/Finley-River-Park.
BARAK HILL LIVE
AUGUST 17, 6:30–8:30 P.M.
Springfield native arak ill is performing a mi of original songs and covers at Turkey Creek Brewery. Having won the American Songwriters Magazine’s 2021 Santa Cruz Guitar Song Contest, Hill stands out as a musical storyteller. His songs have notes of heartbreak and hope.
Free; Turkey Creek Brewery, 1865 S. State Highway 65, Hollister. For more information, visit barakhill.com.
BEN FOLDS: PAPER AIRPLANE REQUEST TOUR
AUGUST 17, 8 P.M.
Enjoy a night of music that spans genres at the Gillioz Theatre. Attendees will hear songs from Emmy-nominated singer, songwriter and composer Ben Folds and actress, singer and composer Lindsey Kraft. Folds is known for his work with the band Ben Folds Five, as well as his solo career that came after. Some songs you might recognize include “Still Fighting It,” “The Luckiest” and many more.
42.50–122.50; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield. To buy tickets, visit gillioztheatre.com.
TRAVEL THE WORLD THROUGH WINE
AUGUST 22
Take “wine & dine” to the next level as you drink your way across the globe. Enjoy favorites from Spain, Eastern Europe, South America, South Africa and more as you and your fellow wine enthusiasts enjoy carefully selected samples that are paired with yummy small bites.
35; MaMa Jean’s Natural Market, 3530 E. Sunshine St., Springfield. To purchase tickets and for more info, visit mamajeansmarket.com/events.
WOW SIP & SEA
AUGUST 23
Enjoy an after-hours walk through the Wonders of Wildlife aquarium while sipping on drinks from local breweries—if you’re 21, of course! In addition to a chance to stop some incredible undersea wildlife, this event also includes live music, ra es and more.
60; Wonders of Wildlife, 500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. To purchase tickets, visit wondersofwildlife.org/sip-and-sea.
Photos by Chris Akins, courtesy Shutterstock
HORSEBACK RIDING & WINERY
AUGUST 24, 9 A.M.–2:30 P.M.
Saddle up for a day of horseback riding while taking in the beauty of the Ozarks. 37 North’s experienced guide will lead this hour-long ride through fields, woods and creeks. Afterwards, the group will head to Bear Creek Winery for a complimentary wine tasting while enjoying pizza, smoked meats, cheese and more.
119; Farmers Park—Springfield, 2144 E. Republic Rd., Springfield. To register and for more information on the event, what’s included and recommended gear, visit 37northexpeditions.com/ all-adventures.
GOT MUD? RUN
AUGUST 24
Republic Parks and Recreation is hosting their annual mud run, which includes a variety of obstacles, like the rolling hills, mud mountain, tire tower and more. There are runs for every age group—youth races range from ages 6–15, and the adult race is ages 16 and up. The event also includes dog tag medals at the finish line, temporary tattoos, wristbands and food.
Pricing varies based on ticket level; Republic Parks and Recreation, 711 E. Miller Rd, Republic. For more information, visit republicmudrun.com.
ARTSY ALLEY
AUGUST
31
Head to the Farmers Market of the Ozarks on the last Saturday of the month to peruse local artisans’ booths for beautiful, hand-made items. It’s a great way to add a little art and inspiration to your usual farmers market haul of fresh local veggies, fruit, flowers and more that are o ered every week. You can come hungry too; there are always food vendors on hand o ering delicious, freshly made food and drinks.
Free; Farmers Market of the Ozarks, 2144 E. Republic Rd., Springfield. For more information, visit loveyourfarmer.com.
BLUE ROOM COMEDY CLUB ONGOING
Blue Room Comedy Club has a stacked August lineup with lots of hilarious stand-up comedians coming to entertain. This month’s shows include stand-up by Nick Swardson on August 1–3, David Lucas on August 2–3, Derrick Stroup on August 16–17 Ms. Pat on August 24–25 and Dean Delray on August 30–31. Head over to the club to enjoy drinks, tasty snacks and big laughs.
Ticket prices and show times vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com.
SPRINGFIELD CARDINALS ONGOING
There are a lot of opportunities to get your baseall fi this month. ra a cold drink, en oy some allpark food and watch the Springfield Cardinals go head-to-head against the San Antonio Missions on August 6–11 and the Tulsa Drillers on August 20–25. There are lots of fun promotions happening this month as well, like Springfield Cashew Chickens Night on August 8 and 22, a St. Louis Cardinals Stanley Musial Tumbler giveaway on August 10, a John Goodman bobblehead giveaway on August 24 and lots more.
Ticket prices and game times vary; Hammons Field, 955 E. Tra cway St., Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit milb.com/springfield.
WATERCOLOR USA THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1
The Springfield Art useum presents the rd ehibition of Watercolor USA, which recognizes contemporary American watermedia painting. This event features art from across the United States and is judged for a variety of prizes and potential purchase y the Springfield Art useum.
Free; Springfield Art Museum, 1111 E. Brookside Drive, Springfield. For more information, visit sgfmuseum.org.
Before you entrust your home to just anyone, you have research to do. Who is the most experienced? Who will be reliable to work with? A big investment requires a big amount of trust. No worries—we’ll guide you to the professionals. Here are your Residential Pros to Know.
rom humble beginnings in the mid-1990s, 888-Log-Guys has grown to an expansive team of log home and wood craftsmen professionals serving hundreds of 417-land clients on their residential and commercial projects each year. With careful attention to detail, the experts on their team have grown this niche trade over the past few decades. As they have grown, so has their following of loyal customers across Mid-America. Their service offerings have also expanded from exclusively restoring log homes to now offering a variety of services for all types of homes with decks, privacy fences and log or wood accents.
ften their customers think that they will need to find another vendor to refinish their decks, paint their windows or may e even refinish wood doors. The good news is that 888-Log-Guys can do those tasks, usually at the same time that they are refinishing your home.
888-Log-Guys has been in the business of log home restoration for more than 20 years, with team members who have decades of handson experience. Restoring log homes is their business, and when it comes to dependable services and quality workmanship, nobody does it like 888-Log-Guys. Contact them today for a hassle-free bid.
Photo courtesy
888-Log-Guys
Front: Nicole Carr, Jordan White | Back: Dustin White, Sheilah Shortt, Stephanie Chapman, Jeff Parks
At Assemblies of God Credit Union (AGCU), members’ dreams come first. Since its founding in Springfield in , C has grown to serve mem ers in all states and missionaries in countries.
Today, AGCU stands as the largest credit union in the 417, one of Missouri’s fastest-growing credit unions and among the country’s leading faith-based financial institutions. C proudly serves people and organizations associated with the Assemblies of God, AG church adherents, and extended family mem ers with full-service anking options. em ership enefits e tend nationwide, providing access to over 10,000 credit unions and 30,000 ATMs without service fees.
Photo by Nathan Reighard
Banking with AGCU means more than just industry-leading options for checking, savings, loans, CDs and money markets. It means contributing to life-changing initiatives worldwide—what AGCU calls Banking With A Purpose. To discover more a out one of Springfield s longest- est-kept secrets, visit a branch, enjoy complimentary coffee and treats for kids, contact the Member Care Team, explore online services or try video banking. AGCU looks forward to making your dreams a possibility!
417-831-4398 | agcu.org 1776 E. Independence St., Springfield
Matthew Myers, Mitchell Swanson, Jason Lister
Edge Supply is in the usiness of transformation. hether it s a custom home or simply a new sink faucet, dge Supply has the parts and professionalism to bring transformation to how you live. After all, they’re your go-to plumbing store!
Edge Supply
417-862-7082 | edgesupply.com 1920 E. Tra cway | 5665 S. Campbell Springfield
Experience is what makes the difference. This family-owned company has been in business since 1946 serving both contractors and homeowners throughout issouri and orthwest rkansas. Staff at oth the ast Trafficway and South Camp ell locations are serious a out 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.
ind the latest styles at dge Supply. hatever your pro ect style or udget 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. dge Supply is all a out making customers happy and uilding lasting relationships. fter all, at dge Supply, it s all a out how you live.
Photo courtesy Edge Supply
Five Star Painting’s local owners, Doug and Andrea Windsor, understand that a home is more than just a house; rather, it’s a place to unwind, to gather, and to re ect a homeowner s style and personality. t s also one of your iggest assets. ood home maintenance can have a positive effect on your home s value.
The e perienced professionals at ive Star ainting ring e cellence to every pro ect. They are a full service company that transforms residential and commercial properties, oth inside and out. rom walls, trim, ceilings and ca inets to e teriors, garage doors and more, no detail is too small for ive Star ainting s attention. nd ecause of their reputation for transparent pricing and outstanding customer service, ive Star ainting is the recipient of a Torch ward for thics. icensed and insured, they are active mem ers of the ome uilders ssociation of reater Springfield and the Springfield rea Cham er of Commerce.
Countless homeowners have trusted ive Star ainting s e pertise to elevate their property and protect their investment. ive Star ainting is proud to deliver eautiful results in a timely, professional manner.
Doug and Andrea Windsor
Dreaming of warm weather and the sound of water lapping at your feet? Bring that dream to fruition with Imber Pool & Outdoor. With more than 100 years of combined experience, their team is more than knowledgeable about anything outdoors, including pool builds and repair, pergola builds, outdoor fireplaces, ponds, fences, waterfalls and even outdoor kitchens. Your backyard can become an oasis with Imber’s unparalleled customer service, newest products and technology and highest quality materials. Imber Pool & Outdoor specializes in creating one-of-a-kind living spaces that make your home usable, comfortable and fun. Imagine what you can do in your backyard. If you can imagine it, Imber Pool & Outdoor can design and build it!
If you are ready for the outside living space of your dreams, call Imber to schedule your free in-home estimate at 417-7717552. Ask about their convenient financing plans available to help build your backyard oasis sooner.
by
Brandon Hermans, Joshua Hermans, Andrew Hermans, Kimberly Phillips, Kole Raby, Michelle Hermans, Tyler Loftis, Chuck Hermans, Samuel Burks, Logan Elsey, Phil Jordan, Rik Woods
Photo
Katy St. Clair
Langston Group began with humble beginnings and made waves in real estate after securing an impressive top 10 position in 2023 for the small team category in issouri. y , ealTrends Verified ranked them th among medium-sized teams, a nota le achievement as their eight agents compete with teams from cities like ansas City and St. ouis.
The team consists of successful agents: Dustin Langston, Kurt Killingsworth, avid ac uez, atie Taylor, yan enslee, ary o illiams, aco erry and ade ovelady. Their multi-award-winning service and e pertise re ect their dedication to clients and adaptability in a dynamic market.
Serving from reater Springfield to the ake of the zarks, angston Group handles farm, residential, investment and commercial properties. They assist first-time home uyers and seasoned investors alike, focusing on lasting relationships. Their local market mastery ensures smooth transactions and client satisfaction.
Operating within Murney Associates, southwest Missouri’s leading brokerage, Langston Group also provides weekly market updates on their radio show, Real Estate Radio, on 92.3 KICK FM every Thursday at 4 p.m. Langston Group demonstrates commitment to client success and industry excellence.
Langston Group
417-879-7979 | betterlifespringfield.com 1628 E. Republic Rd., Springfield
Jacob Perry, Jade Lovelady, David Jacquez, Katie Taylor, Dustin Langston, Mary Jo Williams, Kurt Killingsworth, Ryan Henslee
Photo by Katy St. Clair
Better furniture at the best prices. This is the promise of Missouri urniture. or nearly years, family-owned issouri urniture has helped 417-landers transform their houses into homes by offering a comprehensive selection of furniture, mattresses, appliances and hot tubs.
Missouri Furniture
573-346-7400 | missourifurniture.com 1881 James River Rd, Ozark
Led by a knowledgeable team who is committed to outstanding customer service, Missouri Furniture’s staff delivers a stress-free experience. Every customer receives e pert guidance and personalized recommendations. Missouri Furniture has an array of furniture styles and an inventory of thousands of designer fabrics and top-grain leathers. If you’re looking for that special handcrafted heirloom piece, made in Missouri, they’ve got you covered. And if you don’t know where to start, Missouri Furniture’s professional design team is there to help. Whether customers need assistance with kitchen suites, outdoor furniture or hot tu specifications and installations, the company goes the e tra mile to simplify the entire process.
With eight showrooms across the state, Missouri Furniture has been voted the est in issouri for five years in a row. on t miss their special seasonal offers. Missouri Furniture is a one-stop shopping solution for all your home furnishing needs.
Dave & Karen Faiferlick and their sons Grant and Connor
Photos courtesy Missouri Furniture
Munnik Real Estate Group (RE/MAX), owned by Amber Munnik, stands out for its steadfast dedication to elevating the client experience in every real estate transaction. With a focus on luxury service, Munnik Real Estate Group combines cutting-edge technology and a top-tier, in-house marketing team to ensure clients achieve their goals effectively. They cater to a diverse clientele, including first-time homebuyers, seasoned investors and individuals seeking luxurious second homes near the lake.
What distinguishes Munnik Real Estate Group is its commitment to accessi ility and personalized service. They prioritize client satisfaction a ove all else, striving to create a one-of-a-kind e perience characterized by attentive customer care and securing the best deals possible. Clients consistently commend the team for their prompt communication, meticulous attention to detail—from distinctive yard signs to beautifully curated open houses—and the genuine care that makes them feel like the main focus. Beyond fostering strong business relationships, Amber Munnik and her team aim to forge lasting relationships through their exemplary service and respect for each client s specific needs. or anyone navigating the real estate market in 417-land, Munnik Real Estate Group offers not only expertise but also a commitment to making every transaction a seamless and rewarding experience.
Amber Munnik, Lexus Kesslar
Designing your home to fit your standards of perfection can e 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 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 ut 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.
Top Row: Sam Evans, Chris Hodge, Jesus Arizaga | Middle Row: Toni Echols, Maddie Sprenger, Angela Houska, Nathan Taylor, Nicole Fuller, Penny Scroggs | Bottom Row: Landon Enlow, Colby Kern
Photo courtesy Obelisk Home
At zark eck and Tim er, their distinction lies in several key areas, including craftsmanship, customization, e perience and client satisfaction. Specializing in tim er framing, pergolas, porches and custom decks, they tailor each project to the unique desires and requirements of their clients, creating outdoor living spaces that re ect individual styles and udgets. ith years of com ined industry e perience, the team at zark eck and Tim er rings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for superior construction to every project, ensuring exceptional results.
Customer satisfaction is at the core of their mission. The team at zark eck and Tim er emphasizes transparent communication, addressing client needs and concerns to exceed expectations. Their meticulous approach has earned them a reputation for personalized service, cleanliness, respect for the client’s home and attention to detail.
s a proud mem er of the Springfield ome uilders ssociation, they are committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and service. Their dedication to excellence is evident in the positive feedback they receive, solidifying their status as a trusted name in the industry.
Cody & Doug Tapken
Jessi Whitten’s ascent from a seasonal leasing agent in April 2011 to present-day Chief perating fficer at T C roperties e emplifies a remarkable blend of dedication and visionary leadership. Her career with TLC was kickstarted with a promotion to Property Manager at Orchard ark in ugust , followed y her role as ro ect anager in une . y June 2016, Whitten stepped up as the Director of Property Management and, in arch , ecame the C and the first female Chief on staff.
Under Whitten’s leadership, alongside the empowering guidance and vision of Sam . Coryell, resident of T C roperties, the company has thrived. Sam encourages our team to think differently and run with our ideas, continually finding new ways to support and care for our residents and the T C roperties team,” Whitten says.
Her commitment to TLC Properties is deeply rooted in the company’s mission and values. e really do elieve in giving our residents a top-tier living e perience, hitten says. have seen first-hand the lengths to which our leadership will go to ensure this standard, establishing a higher standard for multi-family living at large.” TLC Properties has unparalleled generosity towards its communities and employees, a quality deeply cherished by Whitten. Jessi believes that a vibrant and inclusive company culture starts at the top, so regarding the daily task of nurturing creativity and innovation at TLC, Whitten says, Challenge accepted.
Jessi Whitten
Photo courtsey
TLC Properties
Since 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 travels the globe in order to personally select each tile series, which enables them to present the latest 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 stock tile S s and all of the tools and installation products that are needed for installation.
The Stone allery at ni ue Tile is the only local full granite fa rication facility in the area that is accredited y the atural Stone nstitute. ni ue 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
Top Row: Stephanie Karlsons, Kevin Alba, Meagan Kolotyuk, Tara Guydos, Nick Falls Bottom Row: Melissa Turpin & Paul Mudd
When it comes to choosing a builder, the checklist is clear: honesty, open communication, dependability and quality craftsmanship. Wise Built not only ticks all these boxes but goes beyond to redefine your dream home.
Wise Built Homes crafts residences that stand out and endure the test of time. They seamlessly blend yesterday’s values with tomorrow’s innovation, creating homes that transcend eeting trends. ise uilt home isn t ust aesthetically sharp; it’s a testament to enduring design that evolves with the changing needs of its owners.
Functionality is key, adapting intelligently to the abilities of the occupants. fficiency is woven into the very fa ric of ise uilt homes, ensuring thermal comfort throughout the seasons. The fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern building practices makes these homes not just sturdy but intelligent.
Austin Miller and Brandon Ward
Photo courtesy Wise Built
Arvest Bank
Buying a house is one of the largest purchases most people will ever make, so it’s important for homebuyers to have the right mortgage team guiding them through the process to make sure they secure the est loan for their specific situation.
The experienced team of mortgage lending pros at Arvest Bank is ready to help. Not only will they make the process convenient with local lenders and the highly rated Home4MeTM app, but they also service 99% of their loans after closing so homebuyers receive continued local service. Get started today at arvest.com or call - - .
417-885-7256 | arvest.com
Arvest is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. Loans subject to credit approval
Brookline Doorworks
rookline oorworks has een a staple in the zarks 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 usiness. rookline oorworks is certified and owned by local residents Kevin and Christine Howell.
Brookline Doorworks offers a wide variety of overhead door products from the industry’s leading manufacturers.
Visit their showroom in Springfield, issouri, 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
Alex, Chris, Jamie, Christine, Joe, David
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 pro ect uni ue. Set the foundation for your perfect patio s fire pit, hot tu , 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
Garage Experts
Transform a plain or stained concrete garage oor into a beautiful extension of the home with epoxy coating systems from arage perts. Their direct to concrete epo y product forms a strong ond, guaranteed not to peel or ake. ith over custom ake options and dura le top coats, clients can e pect a right and easy-to-clean finish tailored to their uni ue style. Garage Experts also offers custom storage cabinets and organizing systems to match the new oor, enhancing oth beauty and functionality. Owners Christine and Kevin Howell are passionate about turning any unattractive or cluttered garage, basement, or patio into a showplace. Enjoy a 10-year warranty and the peace of mind that the garage will look great for years to come.
417-429-2166 | garageexperts.com 1274 Kinder St. Unit A, Nixa
Tanna, Kevin, Jake
Photo Katy St. Clair, courtsey Concrete Enhancements
JAG’s Lawn & Landscape
It’s that time of year when we all start looking to revamp our outside areas. JAG’s Lawn & Landscape is a local business that specializes in landscape installation and maintenance. Their staff has over 40 years of combined experience creating and bringing beautiful and functional landscaping projects to life in -land. ith ornamental and turf certifications and as authorized elgard contractors, they have the knowledge to stand behind their work. They do it all: lawn mowing, landscape design and build, lawn chemical applications, tree and shru treatments, ack ow and irrigation service, insect control, mole removal, leaf cleanup and snow removal. JAG’s strives to be the one-stop service for all your outdoor needs.
417-844-7644 | jagslawn.com 2733 E. Battlefield #339, Springfield
The Grill Guys
The rill uys, owned y Skyler Spartan and Charlie allace, specializes in outdoor kitchens, grills, smokers, accessories, seasonings and fuels, catering to customers at every stage of their culinary journey. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and deep expertise, they provide a tailored experience to meet individual culinary needs. Voted the Best utdoor iving store in Southwest issouri, they offer the largest selection and expert guidance to enhance outdoor spaces. The rill uys are Certified evel ggsperts and are dedicated to helping customers create memorable moments with loved ones through the joy of outdoor cooking.
Spring- reen awn Care and partner Trimworks awncare & Irrigation, both locally owned by Jonathan Thurman, can take care of your lawn the way that you would… if only you had the time!
They are the 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 uni ue 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!
Spend the day enjoying our local lakes with our roundup of lake-centric activities from cliff-jumping to hiking. Read more on p. 65.
Photo by Sheri Holloway
Choose Your Cruise
Four fun ways to spend a day at four nearby lakes. WRITTEN BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
THE CLASSIC ONE
Table Rock Lake
It’s our go-to, our ride-or-die, our bestie for the restie. For a whole lot of people in the Ozarks, Table ock Lake is the lake. And it o ers the perfect blend of recreational opportunities and moments of pure relaxation. It was formed by damming the White River and has a shoreline owned by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. That means it will never be overdeveloped and will always maintain its natural beauty. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do. On the contrary, Ta le ock Lake o ers a wealth of activities from boat rentals and parasailing to fishing e cursions and lakeside dining.
Must Do: Rent a boat for the day from a local spot like State Park Marina, Port of Kimberling or Long Creek Marina
THE WILD ONE
Bull Shoals Lake
When we say “wild,” we aren’t talking about party coves and main channel tra c ams. e re talking about the wilderness. Bull Shoals Lake doesn’t have a shoreline packed with resorts and attractions, and we love that about it. Instead, it has clean water, a peaceful vibe, e cellent fishing opportunities and gorgeous lu s utting out into the water. It’s one of four local lakes created by damming the White River (like Table Rock Lake), and it features a United States Army Corps of ngineers u er along the shoreline (also like Table Rock Lake). But unlike TRL, it’s even less developed—and that means you will never fight a crowd.
Must Do: Cli umping from the scenic lu s ( ut e sure to check water levels first
THE WINDY ONE
Stockton Lake
If you think sailing is just an activity for folks living on the coast with easy access to the ocean, think again. There’s a vibrant sailing culture at Stockton Lake, where the annual Governor’s Cup Regatta is held each September, and where the Lake Stockton Yacht Club hosts sailing races for all skill levels. So why do sailing and Stockton go hand-in-hand? Well, the wind is almost always blowing on this scenic lake, making the sailing conditions ideal—even in this land-locked state. Maybe it’s time for you to pick up sailing as your new favorite lake hobby. But if sailing’s not your thing, this lake features marinas for boat rentals, great places to camp and trails to hike.
Must Do: Follow Lakeview Trail for great views over the water
THE EASYGOING ONE
Lake
Pomme De Terre ust an hour from Springfield, this unassuming little lake at Pomme de Terre State Park is a chill and relaxing spot to spend the day. From the shore you can enjoy two scenic swimming beaches where you and your crew can enjoy the sunshine and the water. For fun on the water, head to Marina at Pomme for easy boat rentals that will take you right out onto the water. The marina o ers hot comfort food and cold ice cream at the restaurant to fuel you up when you get back from your adventures. Plus, there are two hiking trails and lots of campsites at Pomme de Terre State Park, so you can easily make a weekend of it and spend a couple of days exploring. Must Do: Start with a boat rental at the marina, then end with an ice cream cone
BREATHTAKING BEAUTY
The Grand Gulf State Park is home to beautiful stretches of land and natural bridges.
BY EMILY FUGE
Known as the “Little Grand Canyon” of Missouri, Grand Gulf State Park is home to one of the most amazing collapsed cave systems in the Ozarks. Located a little over 2 hours southeast of Spring eld, its breathtaking beauty is encompassed by the titular “Grand Gulf” stretches for more than a mile between walls that measure 130-feet high. There are a lot of ways visitors can view the gulf: They have access to trails from both the top of the gulf and the ground below it, the latter of which includes a natural bridge they can walk under. This bridge spans across 250-feet.
Visitors can enjoy 28-miles’ worth of trails at Grand Gulf State Park spanned across two different trails, the rst being the Interpretive Loop Trail. This trail provides visitors with four overlooks to view the sights of Grand Gulf. It also al-
lows visitors to view the bottom of the gulf and take in its waterfall. Natural Bridge Trail takes hikers over the natural bridge and provides them with a glimpse into the Grand Gulf from the trail’s path along the edge. While it o ers satisfying views in the summertime, the best time to walk this trail is in the late fall and winter months due to fallen leaves on the trees providing clearer views. Be sure to be on the lookout for wildlife here too; this trail has been known to see its fair share of deer and turkeys every now and then. In addition to hiking, the park o ers three picnic spots with gorgeous, Instagrammable views along the outer rim. Interested in learning more about the park’s history and geological factors? Interpretive Programs, which are given to interpret history and nature in Missouri’s State Parks, are available upon request.
by
Photo
Joshua Beecher
Harvest All Year Long
When your backyard garden’s summer harvest is well past its peak, churn up that soil and plant some veggies that’ll feed you all through the fall. All of these plants thrive in fall’s cooler temperatures and can be planted right now.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
WHAT’S UP DOC?
Carrots, those versatile little roots that taste good in every soup and salad and have the most satisfying crunch when eaten raw, do best when grown in cooler temps. They won’t make it in a summer garden, but if you plant them in August you’ll yield a November or December harvest. Plus, they store well in the fridge, so they’ll keep you in fresh veggies all winter long.
BEET IT
Beets are a dream in fall and winter recipes. Roast them and serve with goat cheese and herbs for a simple but impressive side dish. If you pop them into the ground in early August, you should have fresh beets to eat by November—just in time to add some color to your Thanksgiving dinner menu. Like carrots, they can be stored for a long time so you can take advantage of your harvest for months.
IT’S EASY BEING GREEN
Spinach is an excellent contender for fall and winter harvests because it won’t just survive cooler weather—it will thrive. But it isn’t the only salad-friendly green that you can plant right now. Lettuce is another great option. Leaf lettuce is incredibly easy to grow, and you can get multiple harvests from one plant if you simply snip the leaves instead of pulling up the plant.
Ultimate Girls’ Day Giveaway
From spa treatments and overnight accommodations to dinner at your favorite restaurants and tickets to events, kick your next girls' day up a level by entering to win 417 Magazine's giveaway valued at more than $2,300!
GUIDE
Experience the Ultimate Fall Getaway in Branson! Discover an array of attractions, shows, adventures and endless fun awaiting you. Explore everything happening in this guide.
BRANSON GUIDE
BRANSON, MISSOURI
Experience the fall getaway of your dreams in Branson! Discover exciting new attractions like the Social Birdy, featuring pickleball courts, a putting course, golf simulators and a full bar. Be mesmerized by the latest shows including MJ the Illusion and Dustin Tavella, promising unforgettable performances. No matter your preference, from The Haygoods and Hughes Brothers to Reza Live and Legends in Concert, there is something for everyone on a Branson stage.
Don’t miss
Celebrate with crafts, music, food and more at one of Branson’s fall festivals. Visit Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival and Pumpkins in the City where you can see artisans at work and thousands of glowing pumpkins! Check out Shepherd’s PumpkinFest to enjoy fall activities such as a petting zoo, hayrides, bounce houses and more!
Satisfy your adventurous spirit by soaring through the fall foliage on one of Branson’s
many ziplines, the Snow ex Tubing Park or the Runaway Mountain Coaster. Get a bird’s-eye view of surrounding leaves on the Skycoaster or Skyscraper thrill ride at Track Family Fun Parks.
Savor a delicious breakfast at Steamy Joe’s Cafe with a beautiful overlook of fall foliage. Experience homestyle cooking at Local Flavor in the heart of Branson. Dine at the Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks, known for its exquisite menu and student-made goodies. Grab a sweet treat at The Pie Safe, known for homemade pies bursting with autumn avors.
What to see
Take advantage of the cooler weather and enjoy Branson’s hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. Explore one of our three pristine lakes for endless fall scenery, with rental boats at State Park Marina and Indian Point Marina.
When to go
Whether you’re seeking outdoor excitement, world-class entertainment or simply a place to unwind surrounded by breathtaking fall scenery, Branson has everything you need for an unforgettable autumn escape. Plan your visit now at www.explorebranson.com/seasons/fall.
BIRCH & WILLOW
Birch & Willow Spa, Branson’s premier luxury day spa, invites you to sit back and relax. The mother-daughter owner duo, Jodi Lilly and Jami Kysar, have a combined 34 years of licensed massage therapy expertise.
What to try
Perfect for girls’ weekends, family getaways, bachelorette parties and more, Birch & Willow offers a spa rental package that allows groups to rent out the entire spa. Guests can choose between a four-hour package with ve 60-minute services or an eight-hour package with ten 60-minute services. During
Photo courtesy Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau u
Celebrate the fall season at Silver Dollar City's Harvest Festival and Pumpkins in the City event.
their stay, groups can enjoy private access to the locker room, lounge and treatment rooms. Clients can select any facial, massage or body treatment for their personalized service. While salon services are not included in the package, they are available at a discounted rate. Interested parties should call for pricing and to book their private spa day.
Don’t miss
Birch and Willow partners with local businesses to help you customize your day. Enjoy individual charcuterie boxes or share a board at the spa. Add a bouquet of owers for that special someone.
Tip
“Come early and stay late,” Kysar encourages. Guests can arrive before their appointment to enjoy the sauna and lounge, unwinding in robes and slippers before and after their service
CHRISTOPHER & BANKS
Christopher & Banks has been out tting women in comfort and style since 1956. The brand strives to create high-quality and affordable clothing designed in the United States and brought to customers by a team with over 150 years of combined experience.
Don’t miss
Exclusive prints and patterns, a consistent and accurate t in sizes 4-24 and great quality at a competitive price are what keep customers returning.
What to try
Customers have to try Christopher & Banks’ Signature Slimming Pant Collection. Available in a variety of fabrics and styles, all are designed with a exible tummy-smoothing panel for a sleek silhouette and great t. Customers love the denim so much they call them “magic jeans.”
What’s new
From colored denim and sweaters in pointelle and cable stitches to quilted jackets and vests, Christopher & Banks will be the destination for great t and function this fall.
Tip
Visit their location in the Tanger Outlets Branson, or shop anytime online at www.christopherandbanks.com.
BRANSON GUIDE
BRANSON LANDING & MORE
What’s new
Branson Landing welcomes four new establishments: Flaming Margarita American Kitchen, Crepes N’ Cream, Southern Living Store and Elysium—a toy and gaming store.
Swing into summer at Branson Hills Golf Club. The club introduces its new Club Car Fleet, featuring plush seats and GPS navigation. Tee times can be booked at bransonhillsgolfclub.com. Don’t forget to check out Magnolia Grille before or after gol ng.
Don’t miss
The fountain shows at the Branson Landing. Guests will be amazed by the dazzling interplay of water fountains shooting 120foot geysers and re cannons blasting, all choreographed to light and music.
Also, Level 2 Bar, located just outside Level 2 Steakhouse, offers an exceptional selection of drinks along with the full menu from the steakhouse.
What to see
Everything at the Branson Landing— anchor stores like Bass Pro to Belk, complemented by 17 restaurants and over 80 retail shops and attractions. Plus, don’t miss the scenic boarwalk stretching along the 1.5-mile Taneycomo Lakefront. Visit bransonlanding.com for events.
THE MANSION THEATRE
The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts is Branson, Missouri’s destination for worldclass concerts, award-winning Broadway productions and cultural theatre experiences. It is also the premier performing arts center for the Midwest United States. Since its opening in 1993, The Mansion Theatre has showcased talent from all over the world, including Hall of Fame artists like Johnny Cash, Dennis Quaid, Michael Bolton and more.
What’s new
The Mansion Theatre continues to offer an exciting line up of legendary favorites. This year, they’ve added Tracy Byrd, Lee Greenwood and Lorrie Morgan. Don’t worry, favorites like Jimmy Fortune, Gene Watson, The Bellamy Brothers, Daniel
O’Donnell and The Gatlin Brothers are still on the schedule as well.
When to go
October through early December is The Mansion Theatre’s prime concert season.
What to see
This year, Tracy Byrd will be the exciting new addition to the lineup. With years of entertainment experience, he brings beloved songs like “Watermelon Crawl” to the stage.
Tip Shows ll up fast, so it is best to reserve tickets in advance. The Mansion Theatre offers insurance on tickets, allowing patrons to receive a refund if plans change and they are unable to attend. Visit themansiontheatre. com for tickets.
Don’t miss
Praisefest is a must-attend Gospel Festival showcasing multiple Dove Awardwinning artists over three days. This year’s Fall Praisefest will be held from October 28-30.
MYER HOSPITALITY
Myer Hospitality’s four Branson hotels— Best Western Center Pointe Inn, Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills, Comfort Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express Green Mtn. Drive—promise quality service tailored to their guests’ needs, regardless of their chosen accommodation in town. All hotels offer relaxing indoor pools and hot tubs.
What’s new
The Comfort Inn & Suites owned by Myer Hospitality stands as the most decorated Comfort Inn in the brand’s history, ranking among the top 1% nationwide. Additionally, renovations are underway at the Best Western Center Pointe Inn, with plans to introduce new features in their A building.
What to try
Myer Hospitality’s hotels offers a variety of room types based on each person’s and family’s needs. All hotels have rooms that can sleep up to six people, as well as suites for a romantic getaway.
Tip
Myer Hospitality offers vacation planning and ticket services without service fees, making vacations easier and more economical. Guests can also access dining publications at all their hotels for added convenience.
PIER 28 PIZZA AND GRILL
Pier 28 Pizza & Grill is Table Rock Lake’s most fun and tastiest boat-up restaurant! This friendly, laid-back restaurant combines old favorites with new lake-loving menu items including Pier 28’s award-winning homemade pizza, featuring their proprietary dough and sauce recipes, with only premium ingredients. Pier 28 also features top-notch lake grill items such as appetizers, salads, burgers, sandwiches, pasta and gourmet dessert.
Know before you go
Located at Port of Kimberling Marina & Resort, Pier 28 Pizza & Grill is in the same cove as What’s Up Dock, near the Kimberling City Bridge. For customers who want to maximize their time on the water, to-go ordering is available on the website.
Tip
With 30 courtesy boat slips at the same dock as the restaurant, no one needs to take a shuttle or climb a hill. There’s ample car parking, too! By car, access Pier 28 Pizza & Grill through the Port of Kimberling Resort.
Don’t miss
Come on in and enjoy live music most evenings! Visit pier28pizzagrill.com for the updated schedule.
Photo by
If you find yourself at Table Rock Lake, be sure to visit Pier 28 Pizza and Grill to satisfy your hunger.
SILVER DOLLAR CITY
See Ya This Fall, Pumpkin! Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival Gets Glowing Sept. 13.
When to go
It’s glow time! Silver Dollar City gives folks “pumpkin to talk about” as one of its brightest festivals of the year gets ready to shine! The gourd times get going at Harvest Festival from September 13 through October 26.
What to see
Thousands of pumpkins are aglow throughout The City by night with no-scare family fun around every corner of the 1880s theme park, including an all-ages dance party and character meet and greet in the Pumpkin Plaza. There’s a pumpkinperfect picture opportunity everywhere
you look, starting with a stroll beneath the two-story, lantern- lled Canopy Sky or a walk through Foggy Hollow. Before the nighttime fun, The City features a Harvest Festival all day with visiting craftsmen who demonstrate pioneer leatherworks, cooper art, jewelry, artistic pumpkin carving, hand-painted décor and so much more!
Don’t miss
Meanwhile, cowboys return to the park’s Carousel Barn at the Cowboy Emporium, featuring Western-inspired crafts and Yellowstone and Gunsmoke star Buck Taylor, showcasing his acclaimed artwork. Across the street, cookies demonstrate their cowboy recipes each day of the festival, with a chuck wagon cook-off to end each afternoon!
What’s new
The autumn food offerings pumpkin spice things up! From pumpkin funnel cakes and lattes to warm apple dumplings with cinnamon ice cream, there’s a fall avor for every festival foodie! A Tasting Passport offers ve samples of those special autumnal avors for only $35 plus tax.
Tip
Sounds of the season ll The City’s streets. Get your hands clappin’ and feet tappin’ with folk, country and bluegrass performances by Arbour Season, Horsecreek, Eastern Heights, Spoken 4 and many other acts throughout the park’s indoor and outdoor venues.
For hours, dates and more information on Harvest Festival, visit www.silverdollarcity. com or call 417- 336-7100.
Celebrate any special occasion in luxury when you rent the Spa. Enjoy private access to the locker room, soothing far infrared
Photo courtesy TK photographer Photos by Katy St. Clair
We go to our local Mexican restaurants TO GATHER WITH frien , TO NOURISH WITH A GREAT MEAL AND TO TRY
new AND
But the story starts well before that delicious food lands on the table in front of you.
READ ABOUT THE fami es BEHIND SOME OF 417-LAND’S MOST beloved Mexican restaurants to see how ey bring eir recipes to PLUS, WE SHARE MUST-TRY DISHES FROM RESTAURANTS across the region.
Photo courtesy TK photographer Photos by Katy St. Clair
Ceviche from El Escondite
Rise & Shine EL CAFECITO + EL ESCONDITE
It was the local Mexican restaurant scene that brought together Shanie and Cristhian Valdez, owners of El Cafecito and El Escondite (both in Spring eld). The couple met when they were working at separate Mexican restaurants. On his days o , Cristhian would frequent the restaurant where Shanie worked as a server, and the two quickly forged a friendship and later started dating.
Shanie is from Bolivar, while Cristhian's hometown is Guadalajara, Mexico. “When we got together, his English wasn't uent, and my Spanish wasn't uent,” Shanie says. “So we helped each other a lot.”
Cristhian rst got his start in the industry as a dishwasher and eventually became a server. During his meal breaks, he'd often go o -menu and ex his culinary skills in the kitchen to whip up his own creations inspired by his mother. Even though she still lives in Mexico, distance hasn't kept her from teaching him new things. “They talk to each other on FaceTime all the time, and he’ll get new salsa ideas from her and learn everything from new ways of cooking certain things all the way down to how to best chop ingredients,” Shanie says.
The two took the leap to open their rst concept, El Cafecito, in early 2023. El Cafecito means the little co ee shop in Spanish, and it instantly lled a gap in the Spring eld co ee scene. Here, they serve traditional Latin American co ee beverages like café de olla with unre ned sugar imported from
Mexico and a blend of spices, as well as decadent signature drinks. For example, the sopapilla cheesecake latte shows o ingredients you don't nd often in a co ee beverage, like cream cheese chips.
El Cafecito is rst and foremost a co ee shop. However, its food menu de nitely holds its own. Aside from breakfast burritos, you can expect lling lunch dishes that turn up the heat like tortas, tacos and tostadas plus Mexican pastries like soft and sweet conchas.
Shanie and Cristhian opened El Escondite right around the corner from the co ee shop in May 2024. El Escondite, which translates as the hideout, is a family-friendly neighborhood bar that serves refreshing Mexican drinks and snacks. Between the cocktails and the small plates, you’ll be sure to receive a vibrant order. For example, the Margarita Coco Azul gets its name from its stunning blue hue, while the fresh fruit cup shows o colorful fruit like watermelon, mango and prickly pear cactus seasoned with tajín. You’ll also nd plenty of fresh seafood on the lineup, including oysters topped with pico de gallo. So whether you start your day at El Cafecito or end it at El Escondite, you'll have a chance to try avors and ingredient combinations novel to 417-land.
REGION: The southwest coast of Mexico and Guadalajara
THE MUST-TRY DISHES: Don't sleep on the Chichaloco burrito, which is chock full of chorizo,
beans, potatoes, eggs and bacon, all doused in queso fresco and house-made chimichurri sauce. El Escondite's ceviches have quickly become a crowd favorite; it’s a marinated shrimp dish that's full of refreshing flavors like lime, cucumber and cilantro.
THE MUST-TRY DRINKS: At El Cafecito, the horchata latte takes the creamy, cinnamon-forward Latin American beverage and kicks it up a notch with two shots of espresso. If you're looking for more of a beverage to unwind, head to El Escondite and order the Guadalajaran. This bright, citrus-forward cocktail features Jalisco Tequila Blanco, Mezcal and freshly squeezed grapefruit and orange juice all served in a traditional Mexican clay bowl.
Burritos, tacos, chilaquiles! So many options for your morning meal.
1
If you can’t start the day without a plate of eggs, the Machaca y Huevo a la Mexicana from Tortilleria Perches (Springfield, pictured above) is a great place to start. Eggs are scrambled with pico de gallo and and tender shredded beef, then served with rice, beans and tortillas.
2
If you haven’t tried chilaquiles yet, run to Tacos el Gordo (Springfield . This breakfast casserole is pure indulgence. You can get it with red or green sauce, and it’s topped with sour cream, red onion, two eggs and an additional protein of your choice.
3
At El Cafecito (Springfield , you can build your own breakfast tostada. It starts with a flat, crispy tortilla shell, and then you pick what they put on top. We recommend egg, potatoes, lettuce and the brightly delicious chimichurri sauce.
4
If a taco is more your style, opt for the chorizo and potato breakfast tacos from El Quetzal (Carthage). They are only $1.59 each (for real!) and are topped with jalapeño, onion, tomato and cheese.
5
You didn’t think we’d forget breakfast burritos, did you? One option is the egg and chorizo mini-burrito from Taqueria Cachanilla Estilo Mexicali (Springfield , which is a mix of comfort and indulgence.
Shanie and Cristhian Valdez
by
Photos
Katy St. Clair
Carnitas torta from Cesar’s Old Mexico
CESAR'S OLD MEXICO
Dining at Cesar’s Old Mexico in Spring eld is an immersive experience. The moment you step into the bustling restaurant, you're surrounded by vibrant colors and lively music as the scent of chorizo, deep-fried tortillas and fajitas wafts in from the kitchen.
César and Sandra Ortiz own the restaurant, where they fused the avors of their home countries into one menu. Sandra grew up in El Salvador, and César is from the central coast of Mexico.
One dish in particular that highlights the merging of the culinary cultures is the So-Pusas, which are sopes meets pupusas topped with your choice of chicken, asada or campechana.
He loves mixing things up with specials, some of which are inspired by his mother’s recipes. For example, the Dos Chiles makes an occasional appearance, which is a grilled steak dish dressed up with green tomatillos sauce and serrano jalapeños.
The tradition of Mexican cooking runs deep in César’s family. He originally settled in Santa Ana, California, but moved to Spring eld to help his brother run his family business, Cielito
Lindo, in 1996. He branched o to start Cesar’s Old Mexico in 2015, while his sister opened Jose Locos in 2013.
During his time at Cielito Lindo, he met Sandra, who was a regular and worked at a bank at the time. With his culinary talent and her admin experience, the two had just the right skill set to run a successful restaurant. Even though they have a full kitchen sta , César is still very much involved in the cooking process. He comes in every morning to oversee and help with prep while Sandra handles the behind-thescenes operations like paperwork. From the start, César was excited to explore his culinary creativity at his new venture. “I wanted to make food that was innovative and more authentic than ground beef and chicken,” he says. “I like to make my dishes di erent and play with food.”
REGION: Between the Border of Michoacan and Jalisco, Mexico and El Salvador
THE MUST-TRY DISH: The carnitas torta, a traditional hot Mexican sandwich featuring a soft un filled with raised pork, cheese, lettuce and onion.
Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
If you’re in the all-tacos-all-the-time camp, branch out of your usual routine! Mix up your order with one of these traditional, creative or new-to-you dishes you may not have tasted yet.
1 Ready to try cactus? This tender side dish is delish, and you can get it with the slow-cooked pollo adobado from Tuka Tacos (Springfield, pictured a ove .
2 Ceviche is always a 10/10 when it comes to vi rant flavors. If you like that, try the spicier aguachili next time. The version at Brothers Tacos (Nixa and Ozark) features ceviche with spicy shrimp in a green or red sauce.
3 If you see seven mares soup on a menu, order it for the tasty variety of seafood inside. Taqueria Cachanilla Estilo Mexicali (Springfield is one spot that serves it up.
4 If you’re a fan of crunch but you’re not feeling super-adventurous yet, go for some taquitos. The fried and rolled Chicos Tacos from Tortilleria Perches (Springfield are an excellent place to start.
5 Step up your queso game and order the ueso flameado from Prima’s Mexican Kitchen (Springfield and O ark . t features house-made chorizo atop melty queso. Add the poblano peppers!
6 For an impressive presentation and a shareable dish, get the molcajete del mar from El Paraiso Mexican Kitchen (Stra ord and Springfield . A hot rock owl is filled with homemade oa a ue a sauce and a variety of seafood— including crab legs!
7 Lamb chops at a Mexican spot? You bet! The Borrego Asado from La Paloma (Springfield serves them with charro beans and a mole-poblano sauce.
8 Start your meal with seafood nachos from Mundos Latin Kitchen (Ozark), topped with mahi mahi, shrimp and chipotle sauce.
9 You may have tried cheesy chili rellano, but the version at Iguana Roja (Ozark) takes it up a notch with the addition of quinoa, almonds, mixed veggies and red pepper coulis.
10 Plantains have a delightful flavor, and you can get them as an app at Catrina’s Modern Mexican (Springfield .
11 Salvadoran pupusas are delish ean and cheese filled masa cakes. Get them at Cesar’s Old Mexico (Springfield .
12 For a next-level burrito, get the poblano burrito from Casa Bella Mexican Cuisine (Springfield with spinach cream sauce.
13 If you’re hungry for avocados, and try the deep-fried avocado app with chipotle sauce from Cabos Bonitos (Springfield .
14 Feeling adventurous now? Order the mojarra frita from Papi’s Cocina & Cantina (Republic). It features a deep-fried whole tilapia!
Sandra and César Ortiz
SEÑOR JU AN MEXICAN BAR & GRI
Señor Julian Mexican Bar & Grill in Spring eld is a restaurant forged from a strong family bond. Siblings Nelson, Brenda and Edson Villela opened the business in 2023 as a way to give back to their mother, Guille, and their father and restaurant’s namesake, Julian, who immigrated to Missouri from Tampico, Tamaulipas, when their children were in grade school.
“The main reason we opened a restaurant was to take care of our mom and dad,” Nelson says.
“They’re getting a little older, so we want to make sure to provide for them like they provided for us.”
Both Guille and Julian love being involved in what their children have built for them, but now they get to work less and by choice.
“Our main goal was for them to retire and just be home and enjoy their life now, because they have worked so hard,” Brenda says.
“They used to work six days a week to support us when we were going through school.”
Each member of the Villela family plays a crucial role in the restaurant’s success. The three siblings handle the day-to-day management, including customer service and employee scheduling. And now, their parents get to focus on their favorite aspects of running a restaurant.
Julian spent 20 years working in the kitchen of a Mexican restaurant in Southeast Missouri, and he’s the mastermind behind the recipes. He also oversees the quality of the dishes and inventory, while Guille ensures things run smoothly in the front of the house.
On the menu side of things, you’ll nd a balance of all the classics like enchiladas, quesadillas and tacos, but also some more unique items. For example, the fajita baked potato comes with your choice of
protein, bacon, sour cream and a generous helping of queso, and it is one signature dish that you won't nd anywhere else in town.
“Most Spring eld Mexican restaurants have menus that re ect the central part of Mexico or from the southwest part of Mexico, so they have a lot of similar dishes on their menus,” Brenda says. “But with us being from a di erent part of the country, our menu has a lot
of di erent dishes that people have not been exposed to.”
REGION: The Gulf Coast and northeast region of Mexico
THE MUST-TRY DISH: The Asado de Peurco, which is a traditional Mexican dish commonly served at weddings and quinceañeras. This pork stew’s star ingredient is its delicious guajillo sauce made from red chilis.
Birria Gone Wild
Restaurants are doing some super-creative things with birria, slowly stewed beef (in 417-land) or goat (traditionally) prepared in a wildly avorful broth.
1. The birria quesadilla from I Love Tacos Taqueria (Springfield, pictured left might look like a typical quesadilla, but it doesn’t taste like one. The tender birria inside makes this quesadilla absolutely urst with flavor. And it s so uicy it s a feat to eat it without hogging all the napkins.
2. At the Whatever You Want food truck (Springfield , you get a steaming owl of birria ramen. That’s ramen noodles served in birria broth with a hefty serving of tender birria on top.
3. Birria gets the pizza treatment at Tuka Tacos (Springfield with the orge s i a irria, featuring a tortilla, cheese, birria, cilantro, onions and salsa for a (very messy flavor om .
4. Quesabirria is the most common way to see this tender meat on local menus. At Señor Julian (Springfield , the dish features street style tacos filled with irria and cheese, then served with a little bowl of birria consomme for dipping.
Photos by Katy St. Clair
Brenda, Nelson and Edson Villela
Asada Puerco from Señor Julian
Tacos all day
They’re classic. They’re handheld. They’re reliably delicious and oh-so-satisfying. You can’t go wrong with a taco! Here are a few of our favorites around.
1. CAMARON TACO FROM I LOVE TACOS TAQUERIA
Is it the tender grilled shrimp or the chipotle sauce that makes us swoon over this taco? It’s both, and they are accented with crispy slaw, fresh pico and avocado for the perfect bite. Find it in: Springfield (food truck and restaurant locations)
2. FU YU TACO FROM TINGA TACOS
This one’s for the vegetarians. Expertly seasoned mini-cubes of tofu are the star, topped with mango-habanero salsa, pickled carrots and more. Find it in: Springfield (food truck and restaurant locations)
3. SLAMMIN SALMON TACO FROM NOT’CHO ORDINARY TACO TRUCK
This is a funky one! It has balsamic-glazed salmon, strawberry-jalapeño salsa, feta cheese, sliced almonds and more for a flavorful ite.
Find it in: 14 Mill Market in Nixa
4. TACOS ARANDAS FROM BROTHERS TACOS
These steak tacos are packed with tender meat, then simply (yet indulgently!) topped with grilled onions and melty cheese dip. Find it in: Ozark and Nixa
5. BARBACOA MINI QUESADILLAS FROM CHUBBY CACTUS
Okay, okay. These mini quesadillas aren’t technically tacos. But they are small like a taco, and they are folded like a taco, and we love them like tacos. They are fried, dipped in spicy chili oil and served with avocado sauce. Find it in: Branson West
6. B.A. BARACUS FROM TEAM TACO
The raised eef risket that fills this little street-style taco is oh-so tender and juicy. It’s served in a corn tortilla. On top, you ll find coti a cheese, cilantro and chopped onions.
Find it in: Springfield
7. MAHI MAHI BAJA TACOS FROM PRIMA’S MEXICAN KITCHEN
These tacos are so satisfying. Flaky white fish is readed and fried so every bite has a perfect crunch. On top is a tasty red pepper sauce, cheese, tomato and lettuce.
Find it in: Springfield and O ark
8. TACOS DE SALMÓN FROM EL PARAISO MEXICAN KITCHEN
Speaking of fish tacos, we love l Paraiso’s take, which features tender grilled salmon. It’s topped with the sweet taste of mango salsa and served on a flour tortilla.
Find it in: Stra ord and Springfield
9. FAMOSOS TACOS AL PASTOR FROM LA PALOMA
If you love a sweet-and-savory combination, you need to try pastor tacos. The ones here are great, topped with flavorful marinated pork, sweet pineapple and fresh onion. Find it in: Springfield
10. TRADITIONAL TACOS FROM FLAMING MARGARITAS
With these simple-but-tasty tacos, you pick your choice of meat. (Chorizo is a good choice!) It’s topped with onion, cilantro, avocado salsa, queso fresco, radish slices and lime. You get rice and charro beans on the side.
Find it in: Branson
11. AL PASTOR TACOS FROM TACOS EL CHAMPU
These pastor tacos are so colorful and bright! They come with big chunks of fresh pineapple plus a bright orange (and pretty spicy!) sauce on top of the well-seasoned pork.
Find it in: Springfield
12. JICAMA TACOS FROM MUNDOS LATIN KITCHEN
Crispy rounds of jicama form the shell on these uni ue tacos, which are filled with your choice of coconut shrimp or coconut chicken. (We like the shrimp!) On top is a tasty and creamy chipotle sauce that is the perfect complement to the sweet shrimp.
Find it in: Ozark
13. AUTHENTICO TACO FROM CESAR’S OLD MEXICO
These tiny, street-style tacos are such a treat. You pick the protein (we recommend Cesar’s pork), and then they are topped simply with onion, guacamole and cilantro. Find it in: Springfield
14. TEXAS TACOS FROM DON PEDRO GRILL
These tacos start with one of our favorite things hand made flour tortillas. (So good Then they are stu ed with shredded beef and topped with onions and cilantro. You get ranchero beans on the side to round out your meal. Find it in: Republic
15. PORK CARNITAS STREET TACOS FROM CATRINAS MODERN MEXICAN
We like the street tacos option at Catrinas because they’re served in soft corn tortillas and then topped with the simple good stu we love onions and cilantro. You pick the protein, and the carnitas are an excellent choice. Find it in: Springfield
16. CHICKEN TACOS FROM MEXICAN VILLA
Lovers of Mexican Villa know there’s one thing this spot has that nobody else has: their signature sweet sauce. The tacos are topped with it, along with lettuce, cheese and tomato. Find it in: Springfield (several locations) and Ozark
17. TACOS ESPECIALES FROM SÉNOR JULIAN
The carne asada inside these tacos is to die for flavorful, tender, well seasoned. It’s served on corn tortillas and cilantro, grilled onions, a sprinkle of queso fresco and a slice of fresh avocado. Every bite is divine. Find it in: Springfield
18. BIRRIA TACOS FROM PAPI’S COCINA & CANTINA
What is it about birria that is so dang mouthwatering? The beef is supremely tender, and the flavorful consomme on the side is the perfect dipping sauce. The version at Papi’s Cocina & Cantina is served with a bit of fresh cilantro, slices of crispy radish and lime wedges for squeezing.
Find it in: Republic
19. GULF SHRIMP TACOS FROM IGUANA ROJA
At Iguana Roja, you get to pick your taco style (street or American) and your shell (soft or crunchy corn, or soft flour . e recommend picking gulf shrimp for your protein and springing for the slight upcharge to also add bacon. It’s a delightful combo. And there’s a bonus: If you also get chips and salsa, you’ll be served the tastiest seasoned chips around.
Find it in: Ozark
by
Photo
Brandon Alms
Team Taco
CHOOSE YOUR OWN
COCKTAIL ADVENTURE
DO YOU WANT TO GO A LITTLE WILD OR STAY TRADITIONAL?
VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE. CAN YOU HANDLE A LITTLE HEAT?
IS THIS A CHALLENGE? I ACCEPT.
SOMETHING SPICY
Cucumber-jalapeño margarita from Papi’s Cocina & Cantina in Republic (fresh jalapeño slices, Tajin, fresh cucumber)
ARE YOU FEELING BRIGHT AND SWEET OR MOODY AND MYSTERIOUS? JUST LOOK AT ME: SUNSHINE AND RAINBOWS!
SOMETHING FROSTY
Frozen margaritas from Flaming Margaritas in Branson. They have dozens of fruity flavors, served on fire with pretty toppings.
I LIVE FOR DRAMA.
KEEP IT CLASSIC.
CLASSIC-CLASSIC? OR TRENDY-CLASSIC?
I WILL BE SHARING THIS ON SOCIALS, SO…
Ranch Water from El Escondite in Springfield (Topo Chico, te uila, lime ABSOLUTELY NOT.
SOMETHING SMOKY
Tití me Pregunto from Catrina’s Modern Mexican in Springfield (me cal, ginger, agave, lime, mint, Topo Chico)
I WANT TO FEEL LIKE I’M IN MEXICO.
SOMETHING TRADITIONAL
Julian’s Cantarito from Señor Julian in Springfield (te uila, grapefruit soda, citrus juice, Tajin-rimmed clay cup)
SOMETHING TRENDY
Photo by Katy St. Clair
Flaming Margaritas
by
Photos
Katy St. Clair
Pastor tacos from Little Hacienda
TT HACIENDA
In the late 1990s, Fidel Gómez was working as a dishwasher at a taco shop in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where he eventually worked his way up to general manager. One November, he found himself with a few extra days o for Thanksgiving, so he decided to head to Branson to make the most of it.
After shopping up an appetite, he was craving some Mexican food. Closed sign after closed sign greeted him, but he only saw an opportunity.
“If you know anything about the Branson area, you know that a lot of businesses close earlier or don’t open at all around holidays,” says Fidel’s son, Brandon Gómez. “So my dad said, ‘You know what? I’m going to
open a Mexican restaurant here, and we’re going to stay open during the holidays to feed people.’”
And that’s exactly what he did. He opened the rst location of Little Hacienda in Branson in 1999. The restaurant has relocated a few times across the city throughout the years, but Brandon notes that their current location on Little Pete Road is now their permanent home.
Brandon runs operations at the Branson restaurant, while his uncle manages the Hollister location that the family opened in 2006.
As for Fidel, he’s still got an entrepreneurial spirit that he puts to good use. In May 2024, he opened T’ÄHÄ, a high-end Mexican kitchen
located on the Plaza in Kansas City. Here, you can get a chance to try food that's more authentic to Gómez’s home state of Hidalgo in Central Mexico. “We’re pushing the envelope over there with what kind of menu we’re putting out,” Brandon says. “We took some recipes from my grandma’s cookbook and re ned and turned them up a little bit. We’re doing things that we’re really proud of.”
But as for the menu at Little Hacienda, you’ll nd all of those Americanized versions of Mexican comfort dishes like enchiladas and burritos, which Brandon is a big fan of himself. “With all our businesses, we just try to make sure it's good
food that reminds you of home,” he says. “When I was in college and I was gone, the only thing I ever wanted was a crispy taco from my dad’s restaurant. So even though my parents didn’t grow up with that type of food, I de nitely did, and so did a lot of other people.”
REGION: Hidalgo and the northern region of Mexico
THE MUST-TRY DISH: The Pastor tacos, which feature tender pork seasoned in adobe thats equal parts spicy and smoky. It’s topped with fresh ingredients that pack a flavorful punch including pineapple, cilantro, onion and fresh guacamole salsa.
Brandon and Fidel Gómez
CATRINAS MODERN MEXICAN
It was a late-night scroll through available commercial properties that led Alejandro and Catherine Hernandez to nd the current Spring eld location of Catrinas Modern Mexican. The couple had just started a family and had relocated from North Carolina to Columbia, Missouri. However, they found themselves in Spring eld nearly every weekend visiting Alejandro’s family, who owns El Maguey and immigrated to the States from Jalisco. Alejan-
dro and Catherine had moved to Columbia during a harsh winter, and being away from family was starting to wear on them. “We nally got to the point where we decided we either needed to move to Spring eld or go back to North Carolina,” Catherine says.
Alejandro grew up helping in his parents’ restaurant, and he had actually opened a slew of modern Mexican restaurants in North Carolina as a member of a hospitality group. He was well-versed in the
Photos by Katy St. Clair, Brandon Alms
Churrasco steak from Catrinas Modern Mexican
Esquites from Catrinas Modern Mexican
ins and outs of the industry, so when the prime location opened up in Spring eld, the couple decided to seize the opportunity to open Catrinas.
“[Alejandro] always said that if he opened another restaurant, it would be modern,” Catherine says. “So when we opened Catrinas, we were really sure on what style it was going to be. We said that we would be persistent and consistent with it, and we knew it might take a while to catch on.”
And catch on it did. Catrinas introduced Spring eld to traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist through dishes like its shrimpstu ed poblano, which marries fresh veggies like mushroom and zucchini with Monterey cheese and spicy guajillo crema.
There are also several dishes on the menu in uenced by family recipes. Catherine’s family is from Oaxaca, and the mole poblano is inspired by a labor-intensive Oaxacan dish that her mother used to make on weekends. Her mother always makes sure to keep the restaurant stocked with mole paste she brings back from Mexico.
As for drinks, you’ll nd cocktails bursting with avor from fresh ingredients and spirits from small-batch producers based in Mexico.
Catherine encourages Catrinas rst-timers to come ready to try something new. “We have a great clientele now, and we love all of our clients,” she says. “We know that there’s still a big amount of Spring eld that doesn't know about us or maybe isn’t really ready for us yet, but we de nitely want to welcome everyone to allow us to give them a new experience.”
REGION: Across Mexico, with an Emphasis on alisco and Oa aca
THE MUST-TRY DISH: The Churrasco steak, a 12-ounce hanger steak served with sweet plantains and chimichurri pesto.
THE MUST-TRY DISH: The te uila old fashioned, which swaps the whiskey for Añejo Te uila and the simple syrup for agave. t comes garnished with a fresh orange slice.
An Ode to Mexican Villa
Mexican Villa has stood the test of time in the Ozarks. For me, the family-owned restaurant is a nostalgic place. It reminds me of dinner with my own family at my parents’ house after a long day, chatting about anything and everything while fighting over the ueso.
Mexican Villa has stayed true to its roots over the years, maintaining its classic flavors and menu items. hen it comes to food, e ican illa is one of the only places I know that piles their crunchy tacos with grated white cheese, and
I love them for that. I also like my hot sauce hot, and e ican illa s fits the ill. Mix it with their taco sweet sauce, and it’s the perfect pour-over consistency. Plus, did you know Mexican Villa has margaritas for $6? They call it the Villa-Rita. Honestly, what’s not to love?
ith si locations in Springfield and one in O ark (my home restaurant , Mexican Villa is a staple in the community. In fact, I’m going to order the three taco basket now, extra sauce, please!—Jordan Blomquist
Catherine and Alejandro Hernandez
It was their love of baked goods from home that inspired the opening. “We first started with the bakery only,” Mildred says. “Around here, there were no Guatemalan bakeries.”
But there was one big hurdle they had to overcome before setting up shop. Neither Mildred nor Jose knew the first thing about baking Guatemalan bread, and the internet at the time was devoid of any recipes. “[Jose] even went to Guatemala to try to learn how to make bread, but no one there wanted to teach him,”
Midred recalls. Determined, Jose made up his mind to teach him self the art. After several failed loaves, he nailed his very own perfect recipe.
The bakery was a hit in the community, and its popularity and offerings continued to expand. Now, it serves a full menu of baked goods and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The pupusas are a fan favorite, and Mildred says they sling out hundreds on the weekends. This savory dish includes fillings like pork rind and cheese and gets cooked to perfection on the grill. Tacos, tostadas, empanadas and sopes also dominate the menu, so there’s a good variety of all things spicy and fried.
EL QUETZAL RESTAURANT & BAKERY
Mildred and Jose Guzman both grew up in Coatepeque Quetzaltenago in Guatemala. But as fate would have it, the two wouldn’t meet until they each moved more than 2,300 miles away from home.
Both of their families settled in Carthage in the late ‘90s, which was a time and place where it was hard to meet a stranger. The two became instant friends, and fast forward to 2004, they opened El Quetzal Restaurant & Bakery together.
After you finish your meal, be sure to shop the pantry goods on the shelves. You’ll find grocery items from Guatemala, Mexico and El Salvador, allowing you to take home a taste of Latin America to play with in the kitchen.
REGION: Southern Guatemala
THE MUST-TRY DISH : The Desayuno Chapin (pictured), which is a classic Guatemalan breakfast. It comes with three eggs served your way, tortillas, black beans and fried plantains with a perfectly crisp exterior and soft interior. Central American cream and queso fresco round it all out.
Mildred and Jose Guzman
End on a Sweet Note
Next time you're going out for Mexican food, pace yourself with the chips and salsa so you have room for one of these delicious sweet treats.
1
SOPAPILLAS FROM PRIMAS MEXICAN KITCHEN primasmexicankitchen.com, Springfield and Ozark
These fried leavened dough pastries are soft and flu y, similar to an American donut. However, it's the spices and toppings that really set this craveable dessert apart. Each sopapilla comes with a light coating of cinnamon, granulated sugar and powdered sugar. The dri le of honey is the perfect finishing touch.
2
MEXICAN FRIED ICE CREAM FROM EL SOMBRERO springfieldmexican.com, Springfield
If you've never tasted this classic Mexican dessert, you'll be in for a treat. The vanilla ice cream with crusted cornflake crum coating is the real hero of the dish, while the golden fried flour tortilla owl is like an elevated version of a wa e owl. t comes topped with all the fi ings, chocolate syrup and whipped cream included.
3
FLAN FROM TORTILLERIA PERCHES tortilleriaperches.com
This sweet and creamy custard topped with a thick caramel sauce has a decadent taste and a smooth mouthfeel. It's made with simple, straightforward ingredients that really come alive together—think sweetened condensed milk and sugar.
4
TRES LECHES CAKE FROM LESLIE'S MEXICAN SUPERMARKET instagram.com/lesliesmexicansupermarket, Springfield Each bite of this sponge cake with whipped frosting is a flu y delight. ou can put in an order for a custom cake with colorful fruit toppings like strawberries and kiwi. Oh, and don't forget to request a chocolate drizzle.
5
MANGONADA FROM LA TROPICAL SNACKS find them on Facebook, Springfield
If your sweet craving leans more fruity than chocolaty, try a Mangonada. This dessert will overwhelm your tastebuds, but in the best way, because it's sweet, spicy and tart all at once. It comes with your choice of housemade mango or pineapple sherbet topped with Tajin Chamoy and served with a candy straw.
Desayuno chapin from El Quetzal
Conchas from El Quetzal
MEET LAKESHORE LODGE
This Lakeside Cabin, which doubles as an AirBnB, is chock full of vintage charm and loads of nostalgic summer fun.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER Photographed
When Katie and Andy Barnes (and kids 14-year-old Squire and 12-year-old Harper) make the ve-hour car ride from their home in northern Missouri to their lake house in Shell Knob, they look forward to the same things many lake goers look forward to:
outdoor water adventures, shing, camp res and barbecues. What makes the Barneses’ lake house (they’ve deemed Lakeshore Lodge with the help of friends) stand out from the rest is its cheerful red exterior and all the unique vintage decor. The Barneses were purposeful when restoring
by Katy St. Clair
and remodeling the Lakeshore Lodge they now know and love. “It provides us and others an opportunity to step back in time to a simpler pace of life,” says Katie. “Simpler by taking away the many distractions we have in our lives along with providing many opportunities to just really connect with those we love.”
The Barnes family are no strangers to remodeling. They own a construction company in their hometown of Rea, Missouri. They purchased the property in September of 2019 and nished it just in time for Christmas. “We have dreamed of owning a lake house for years and loved the nature of Table Rock,” says Katie. “It does not feel overpopulated like other lakes in Missouri.”
The lodge was in pristine condition but was very ’70s. Everything was given a facelift, with the original exterior red color being preserved. “We gave it a fresh coat of paint, but just had the red color matched,” says Katie. “We put down hardwood oors and painted them as well.”
It wasn’t an easy remodel. With the long drive and all the work to be done, the Barnes family really put a labor of love into Lakeshore Lodge. “When we rst purchased the property and continued on for the rst year, our kids would whine and say, ‘No, we don’t want to go to the lake house!’” Finally, the work lessened and there was more time for fun. “They now are excited and can’t wait to go to the lake,” says Katie. “We are so thankful for this lesson that the lake house has provided to our children. We have witnessed our kids go through this process of dreaming, planning, working, replanning, enjoying and upkeeping our family’s property.”
The view from the Lakeshore Lodge’s dining room is one of the
Barneses’ favorite things when they bought the house. To further add to the charm of the home, the Barneses’ furnished it with their own personal touch. Both Katie and Andy have a love for vintage and antiques, which the lodge is brimming with. “We both grew up surrounded by items with a past,” says Katie. As soon as they closed on the property, Katie began collecting vintage items for the lodge. She searched thrift and antique stores in the area and hit up lots of garage and estate sales to nd the pieces.
One of Andy’s favorite nds was a porcupine lampshade. “I have never seen anything like it before,” says Andy. “It is so interesting. We found it at The Vintage Peddler in Spring eld.” Katie’s favorite nd was the large collection of vintage jelly drinking glasses. “I love the bright colors and bold designs,” says Katie. “We also nd we always know whose drink is whose. How fun would it be to go to the grocery store and get to select not only the avor of jam or jelly, but also a glass design?” If you love vintage style as much as the Barneses do, they have some great tips for decorating with vintage. “When you are out hunting for your vintage nds, don’t go looking for something super-speci c,” says Katie. “You will be disappointed. This is hard and I often fail. Our best items are often found on the whim.” They also recommend enlisting family and friends for help as well. “Our dear family friends in Ash Grove, originally Northwest Missouri, collected many items for us,” says Katie. “They also are responsible for the hand-lettered sign in our lodge as well as helping us name our property.”
The lodge is always brimming with extended family and friends. They
The Barneses’ kids, 14-year-
Squire and 12-year-old Harper, were involved through each phase of the remodel from dreaming and coming up with plans for the space to working on making those come to life. Katie says she is thankful for the lessons they learned during this time, and even more thankful for how much the kids now enjoy spending time at the house.
old
make a big breakfast to share in the mornings. The dads usually get up early to get some shing in sans kiddos. “We try to maximize our time on the water in the summer months,” says Katie. “The kids are into wakeboarding and tubing, but we love just oating around near the lodge too. We also love grabbing the kayaks and canoes and oating from Arkansas back into Missouri.”
The Barneses are big fans of food. “We love the whole process: meal planning, preparing, serving, lingering over the table with good conversation and drinks,” says Katie. “We even enjoy cleaning up together while listening to some good vintage tunes.” Some of their favorite meals to create are shrimp boils. “We love all the yummy add-ins: sausage, corn, potatoes, onion, garlic, and good seasonings, tossed out on the center of a row of picnic tables either on the deck or out in the orchard,” says Katie. They love spending evenings playing fun yard games like corn hole and ladder ball and ending the day with a camp re. Andy plays the banjo and guitar, and his brother plays the mandolin and guitar as they sit around the re. “The camp re time is just so special,” says Katie. “The sky comes alive.”
Katie’s Hit List
Shop Katie Barnes’s favorite places to find vintage lake decor.
The Vintage Peddler 14 . Tra cway St., Springfield 417-864-9808
Cookies Antique World
8180 US-160, Highlandville 417-443-5000
Ozark Antiques
200 N. 20th St., Ozark 417-581-5233
Keen Eye Antiques 2070 W. Evangel St., Ozark 417-485-3072
The Barneses’ love using their lake house to host friends and extended family. They often spend the day together enjoying the lake and are able to return to the house for shrimp boils in the evening. Their gatherings at Lakeshore Lodge are complete with corn hole and ladder ball and playing a myriad of instruments around the campfire.
SUMMER SIPPER, 104
TOUGH COOKIE, 104
KIND OF A BIG DILL, 106
bun in a MILLION
The Full Ride burger from J.O.B. Public House is served with bacon and super soft sharp white cheddar cheese spread. Find more on p. 102.
Photos
RETURN a welcome
After more than a year of closure, J.O.B. Public House is back open, serving the same familiar foods from Grad School and a new whiskey cocktail menu.
BY TESSA COOPER
PHOTOGRAPHED BY KATY ST. CLAIR
With two decades of business under its belt, it’s safe to say J.O.B. Public House holds countless memories within its four walls. When former owner Danny Schlink passed away in December 2022, there was suddenly a gaping hole in the downtown Springfield food and beverage scene. Schlink was known for his jovial and kind spirit and always made his patrons instantly feel at home.
As a Grad School and J.O.B. patron myself, I completely understand why the re-opening was a major cause for celebration. Now, Chris and Nicole Brown, owners of The MudLounge, and Clayton and Anne Baker, who own a slew of other downtown spots, including Finnegan’s Wake, Civil Kitchen and Tinga Tacos, have taken over the reins.
The bar officially reopened this past April, and you can tell the new crew was very careful not to shake things up too much. When I walked in for the first time after the closure, I was met with instant nostalgia. All the same interior details, including the artwork and beautiful wood bar, remained.
But first glance at the menu, I noticed one change. The beverage menu now includes
several whiskey-based cocktails. Schlink was known for his impressive collection of rare whisky, so I thought that was a nice nod to him. My husband Chandler ordered The Second Interview, which he said is a great choice if you’re a fan of Manhattans.
J.O.B. just released an expansive mocktail menu designed by Sophie Liffick, who previously worked the bar at the now-shuttered Progress. On our visit, the mocktail menu wasn’t quite ready yet, but I was still eager to try one of her concoctions. I told her to surprise me, and she brought out a refreshing citrus and ginger sipper. I was so impressed with what she whipped up on the spot, so I can’t wait to try one of her finalized creations.
With an opening hour of 11 a.m., it’s obvious that J.O.B. is much more than a bar. It also serves a hefty food menu fit for lunch or dinner. Schlink formerly owned Grad School, and when it closed in 2020, he started serving some of its greatest hits at the pub. The new team brought back several of the trusty dishes, and we kicked off our meal with a familiar appetizer: a round of cheese pizza balls with marinara. I was super impressed with how the cheese was perfectly melted and not too chewy.
For our main dishes, Chandler went the classic route and ordered The Full Ride. After years of enjoying this burger, we think we finally cracked the code on what makes it so crave -
able, and it’s the super soft sharp white cheddar cheese spread on the burger. I went with the Codi Brah, which is a veggie burger made with falafel. Each bite left me wanting more, as did the hand-cut fries. It all just goes to show that sometimes things really are as good as you remember them.
J.O.B. PUBLIC HOUSE
The cheese pi a alls are topped with armesan and served with marinara.
J.O.B. Public House makes patrons feel at home with all of the same interior details.
The ar at .O. . u lic ouse includes a new everage menu with several whiskey ased cocktails and an e pansive mocktail menu designed y Sophie Li ck.
Try a ull ide urger, served with a soft sharp white cheddar cheese spread and loaded with a con or opt the Codi rah veggie urger with falafel.
[ YUM OF THE MONTH ]
THE SWEET TASTE OF GIVING BACK
Lizzie Rasmussen’s sugar cookies are little bites of pure joy. No two custom orders look the same; she can do classic circles, hearts or butterflies decked out in whatever color icing and sprinkles your heart desires. The cookies themselves are delectably soft and sweet with a hint of almond extract, and she makes each batch with love using a family recipe that she’s been perfecting since childhood. In honor of her mom, who taught her how to bake her first batch of cookies, she’s named them Carol’s Cookies . Rasmussen is the director of Camp House, a nonprofit that specializes in fundraising through concerts and shows where all artists receive fair compensation. The proceeds from the cookies go directly to Camp House, and you can place an order by giving her a call or text at 417-894-6996 .
—Tessa Cooper
THE AVOCADO TOAST
from The Workshop At Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Ln., Ozark
THE BASE t all comes topped on a slice of sourdough toasted just right.
THE GREEN GOODNESS ashed avocado seasoned to perfection with aldon salt and cracked pepper, plus arugula ru ed in olive oil for e tra fi er.
[ DRINK OF THE MONTH ]
FROSÉ ALL DAY
Picture it: You’re making the most of these lingering humid days and relaxing poolside at Ozarker Lodge (995 Historic Highway 165, Branson). The only thing that could make this scenario even better is the perfect drink to match, and that’s de nitely the Frosé, which you can grab at the pool bar on Fridays and Saturdays from 1 to 9 p.m. This beverage is a crisp glass of rosé but in frozen form with the consistency of a slushie. But what makes it a stand-out summer sipper is the fact that it’s made with Good Clean Wine’s signature rosé, Synchronized Swimming. As with any wine by the locally founded company, it contains no added sugar, sul tes, preservatives, dye or arti cial avoring. As you sip it, you might pick up notes of berries and cream or even melon depending on your palate. You’ll only wish you discovered it sooner this summer.—Tessa Cooper
Photos by Tessa Cooper, Myers Photo Co
THE TOMATOES
It’s tomato season, and this dish wears heirloom ones well.
THINGS the ner
D’Vine Delicatessen & Wine recently relocated from its stall at 14 Mill Market in Nixa to Mill Street in Rogersville (432 S. Mill St., Rogersville). With more square footage to work with, the deli now houses so many of the ner things in life under one roof. On a recent sunny day, I headed there for an extended lunch break with my husband, Chandler. The drive out to Rogersville is always an easy and scenic one, but it’s just long enough to feel like a bit of an escape. When we walked in, owner Doug
Gruenberg was working the counter and giving customers a warm welcome. It was actually my rst time visiting the deli, even though their previous two locations were huge hits. Between the expansive menu and deli case stocked with cheese and o erings like caprese and tortellini pasta salad, I was overwhelmed in the best way. They serve pizza, hot and cold sandwiches, and charcuterie boards, which are pretty much all my main food groups. Since I was there for lunch, I opted for the BLT, and it was even more delicious than I expected. Rather than your basic bacon strips, this sandwich shows o pecan-smoked shoulder bacon, which tastes a bit similar to honey-baked ham. I got major food envy when I tried some of Chandler’s Cubano. The combo of slow-roasted mojo marinated pulled pork and sweet ham with the made-in-house pickles was perfection. D’Vine Delicatessen & Wine also has a serve-yourself wine station, so it’s also the perfect place to unwind after work with friends.—Tessa Cooper
shop up an APPETITE
If you’re in the mood for a little end-of-summer day date, we know just the spots. Take a mini road trip off the beaten path to one of these 2-in-1 cafés and boutiques. You’ll get to treat your tastebuds and get a little retail therapy.
BY TESSA COOPER
SKYLARK CAFÉ
401 High Street, Leslie, AR
Must-try dish: The Cu ano, which comes piled with smoked pork, grilled pit ham, provolone, mustard and house made pickles on pressed rench read.
The shopping: ead ne t door to the caf s ou ti ue, The Little ill Shop. nside the adora le pe tite pink uilding, you ll find candles, accessories like scarves and woven purses and plants.
LILLIEHOBBS MERCANTILE
5581 Center Loop, Omaha, AR
Must-try dish: The tomato is ue served with gi ant Te as toast dippers, and don t leave without a slice of cake.
The shopping: They stock local and Ameri can made gifts and decor. Think ewelry, leather goods, soaps and lotions.
SUGAR LILY BAKERY & FLORAL
210 Jan Howard Expy, West Plains
Must-try dish: The editerranean salad with a lamata olives, red onion, feta, grape tomato, pep peroncini, diced chicken and homemade croutons.
The shopping: art caf , part flower shop, you ll find plants and home decor. f you re in the mood for more shopping afterward, head over to the newly opened Amy lace, which carries trendy gifts like dried flower rings and dish towels.
Change up the flavor of your pickles y ad usting the spices with more red pepper flakes and alape o slices.
it’s quickle
SEASON
One of our favorite ways to take advantage of summertime’s bounty is to snag some fresh cucumbers and make a batch of super-easy quick pickles.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
ve always een afraid of real canning. There seem to e a lot of rules a out food safety that don t feel ualified to properly e ecute. ut uick pickles are a di erent animal. They come together in a flash, don t re uire a single ounce of special skill, are highly customi a le and have a fresh and summery crispness that a classic pickle could only dream of. This is a simple and asic recipe that have made many times with my daughter, ut you can make ad ustments to make it your own Change up the spices (try add ing red pepper flakes , add even more heat with fresh alape o slices (with the seeds , sweeten it up with some sugar (which you ll add during Step , or throw in other veggies to pickle alongside your cucum ers. ou can t mess it up, promise
SUMMERTIME QUICKLES
Ingredients
cups thin skinned summer fresh cucum ers,
cleaned and sliced
cup fresh dill
cloves garlic, smashed
teaspoon whole peppercorns
teaspoon coriander seed
teaspoon dill seed
teaspoon whole mustard seed
teaspoon whole allspice
1 bay leaf
1 cup water
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon kosher salt
Instructions
Place cucum ers, dill, spices and garlic in a large glass ar, and set aside. Boil water. Add vinegar and salt, and stir until salt is dissolved. Pour the hot water vinegar mi ture over the cucum ers until they are covered. Screw on the lid. Place the ar in the refrigerator overnight efore serving. ickles will keep in the fridge for a few weeks.
by
Photo
Katy St. Clair
DINING GUIDE 417
Restaurant Listings, 107
Good Things, 109
[ LISTINGS KEY ]
$= nder 1
$$ ostly 1
$$$ and up
B serves reakfast
L serves lunch
D serves dinner outdoor seating
V live music
M meeting space serves alcohol smoke free ☎ reservations recommended wheelchair accessi le
WIFI free wifi K o ers kids menu
The 417 Magazine ining uide is a select list of restaurants in southwest issouri. mplicitly, the maga ine s editors recommend all these restaurants. The ining uide is not related to advertising, and 417 Magazine doesn t accept free ies in e change for reviews or listings. Listings are updated often they appear ased on space availa ility. estaurants that are written a out in ining uide items such as restaurant reviews, restaurant update stories and 7 ood Things are chosen y editors as a service to readers.
If you have a foodie story idea, news about a local restaurant, or a correction to one of our Dining Guide listings, we’re all ears. Please send an email to our editorial team at yum@417mag.com.
FINE DINING
ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA
1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd. Japanese. This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai o ers e cellent nigiri and sashimi, as well as small plates and tapas. ou have to try the delicious tuna cigars or the hot rock dish that uses wagyu eef. or dessert, the matcha creme rulee is our favorite. Try the e cellent sake menu. Open on. ri. 11 a.m. p.m. on. ed. 1 p.m. Thu. Sat. 4 11 p.m. $$–$$$ D ☎
AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING
3240 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-567-3463,avanzareitaliandining.com Northern Italian. asta is always a hit at Avan are, a longtime Springfield favorite. Customers love the istecca osemarino steak and the pasta with seafood in a spicy tomato ased sauce. Open on. ri., 11 a.m. p.m. on. Thu., 1 p.m. ri. Sat., 11 p.m. Sun., p.m. $$$ LD M ☎ WIFI K
BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007. Sicilian. The ucatini with panchetta, chili oil and asil is a must try pasta dish. et it with the arugula salad with pine nuts and armesan cheese. Also on the menu is pia, wagyu steak and lots of e cellent entree options. The ever changing specials always sound tasty. Open Tues. Thu., 4 p.m. ri. Sat., 4 1 p.m. $$$ D M ☎ WIFI
CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR
1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8238383. Steak and seafood. O erings of aygu steaks, lam shank and fish dishes are favorites here. Lo ster potato puree and crispy flash fried russels sprouts round out the side dishes, and raw oysters, ceviche and one marrow pi ue the appetite as starters. e sure to try the e tensive wine list. Open on. Thu., 4 11 p.m. ri. Sat., 4 p.m. midnight Sun., 4 p.m. $$$ D WIFI M ☎
CHATEAU GRILLE
415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-2431777, chateauonthelake.com.Contemporary American. ere you get gorgeous views of Ta le ock Lake. And you really can t go wrong with anything on the menu. The restaurant focuses on upscale, seasonal cuisine, flying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award winning menu. Open daily during the regular season open during weekends only during the o season. $$$ BLD M ☎ WIFI K
CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL
815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com. Contemporary American This oplin hot spot serves some fantastic seafood, and we ve en oyed everything we ve tried there. The Chilean sea ass is a
specialty. Try some of the small plates, like porto ello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie oard. There are also some great entree salad options. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $$–$$$ LD M ☎ WIFI K
FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8624444, flamesteakhouse.com. American steakhouse. The restaurant speciali es in dry aged steaks that are truly delicious. on t miss the lo ster macaroni and cheese (we re serious you have to try this stu . The desserts are always divine, and we can t get enough of the appeti er menu. Open for dinner on. Thu., 1 p.m., ri. Sat., 11 p.m. ed oom open 4 p.m. to ar hours. $$$ D WIFI K M ☎
THE GARRISON
at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com Upscale shareable plates. Located eneath the O ark ill at inley arms, The arrison features a dark and moody speakeasy vi e, a fine dining menu and a eautiful riverside patio. Try the mini pot roast, the forest pan anella salad or the delightful rosemary pound cake. e sure to order one of the delicious cocktails like the refreshing ill ond. Open eds. Sat. 1 p.m. $$$ D M ☎
GILARDI’S
820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8626400, gilardisonwalnut.com Northern Italian Owner ames artin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little talian restaurant that makes a wonderful date night spot. on t miss the ama ing meat alls in red wine rosemary cream sauce that are served over a ed of creamy goat cheese polenta. Open on. Sat., 1 p.m. $$$ D WIFI M ☎
HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR
3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com.Japanese. The Oh y od roll and the Se and the City roll are trademarks here. f simple nigiri is your style, you ll love the tuna sampler. e sure to venture o the sushi menu and try some of the delecta le entrees. on. ri., 11 a.m. p.m., 4 p.m. midnight Sat., 11 a.m. p.m., 4 p.m. midnight Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ LD M K ☎ V
HARVEST RESTAURANT
8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville. Contemporary American. 417-830-3656. Owners, Craig and Tamara on oerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper seasonal, local cuisine. The menu is always in flu depending on what is in season. Our tip Order whatever seafood option is currently on the menu. t s always delicious and epertly prepared. Open Thu. Sat., p.m. Open Sunday for runch, 11 a.m. p.m. $$$ D M ☎
JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB
1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-886-5466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com.American steakhouse. e love the tasty steaks here. They are always prepared perfectly. The stu ed eppadew peppers are a must try appeti er trust us, you need to taste those things The peppers are stu ed with cream cheese, wrapped in acon and dri led with a alsamic gla e. Open Sunday, 11 a.m. p.m. on. Thu., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. ri. Sat. 11 a.m. 11 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 aruno, which is famous for their incredi le rolls so you know it ll e delicious on t miss the restaurant s lack cod or sea ass entrees with delicious wasa i risotto. Lunch on. ri., 11 a.m. p.m. inner on. Thu., p.m. midnight ri. Sat., p.m. 1 a.m. $$–$$$ LD M ☎
LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE
The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3443, level2steakhouse. com. Steakhouse. This ranson restaurant speciali es in steaks, ut its gooey utter cake dessert is gaining a following. Try the ansas City strip steak and the egg noodles with cheese. The Caesar salad is a must try it comes topped with delicious fried anchovies. Open daily, a.m. p.m., 1 p.m. $$$ B LD WIFI M K
METROPOLITAN GRILL
2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com.Eclectic fine dining. Known for its delecta le flash fried spinach, this restaurant speciali es in steaks and seafood. The salads are always fresh and delicious. And we love that the menu is always changing, giving us something new and delicious to e e cited a out served in a familiar space. The cocktails are delicious, the wine menu is wonderful and the service is always top notch. Open on. Thu., 1 p.m. ri., 11 p.m. Sat., 4 11 p.m. $$$ D M ☎ WIFI K
NICOLA’S RISTORANTE
3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-886-3700, nicolasspringfield.com. Italian. This restaurant serves a delicious sea ass. Try the lumache fresh snails sauteed in garlic utter and aked with armesan cheese. luten free pasta and pi a are availa le. The chicken parmigiano is a highlight definitely worth ordering. The icola s pi a here is also super tasty, and the dessert menu is impressive. Open on. Sat., 4 p.m. close. $$–$$$ D WIFI M ☎
OCEAN ZEN PACIFIC RIM RESTAURANT
4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-889-9596, eatoceanzen.com. Asian fusion. Try Chilean sea ass or macadamia nut chicken. e love ordering the awaii ive O sushi roll with seared rare tuna and a pineapple salsa, it s a tasty com ination of savory, sweet, spicy and refreshing. Open Sun. Thu., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 11 p.m. ar closes at 11 p.m. happy hour p.m. and last two hours of operation. $$–$$$ LD M ☎ WIFI K
THE ORDER
at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-832-1515, theordersgf.com. New American. Step inside the andivort otel and turn left for a downtown Springfield dining e perience not to e missed. The atmosphere is trendy ut rela ed while the food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from scratch kitchen. Try the market fish specials that change daily. runch is e cellent here too. Open for dinner on. Sat. 1 p.m., Sun. p.m. runch Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m. ar open daily p.m. close. $$–$$$ D M V ☎ K WIFI
OSAGE RESTAURANT
at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-225-6343, topoftherock.com. American. Take in eautiful views from the dining room at Osage estaurant, located at Top of the ock, and en oy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The cocktails menu always o ers created and delicious options. ownstairs is the nd of the Trail wine cellar with a wine tasting ar and whiskey room. eservations are recommended. Open Tue. Sat., p.m. ine cellar and u alo ar open later. runch served Sun., a.m. p.m. $$$ B D K M ☎
RETRO METRO
2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-720-1708, eatretrometro.com. This throw ack concept rings ack decades of old etropolitan rill favorites and uite a few rand new flavors too from owner Chef Tiny. The aptly named etro etro serves some of etropolitan s greatest hits, including flash fried spinach and chicken spiedini. ut there are original items on the menu as well, from Chef Tiny himself. ishes are availa le via drive thru, too. Open Tues. Sat. 1 p.m. $$$ D WIFI
65 TAPAS
3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-827-2777, tapas65.com. Spanish. Try a variety of small plates to share with your friends at this Spanish style spot. ishes include things like urrata topped with sauteed mushrooms and marinated tomatoes, char grilled oysters, charcuterie and lots more. There are larger entrees too, like paella, sea ass and tikka masala salmon. eservations re uired on weekends. This restaurant is located inside the same uilding as e ico ra ilian rill. Open Tues. Sat. p.m. $$–$$$ D
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.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 all in one uilding. The restaurant at o ers lane side food service and a menu of tasty fare like urgers, pi as, pasta and more. Springfield open Sun. Thu., 1 a.m. midnight ri. Sat., 1 1 a.m. ranson open on. Thu., noon p.m. ri., noon 1 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m.
AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS
2144 E. Republic Road, Suite E120, Springfield, 417881-9736; aviarycafe.com. Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long een known for eing one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes which you can find there in oth savory and sweet varieties. ut there are also eautiful salads and delicifous entrees that have a little it of rench flair. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. and p.m., ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. and p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m.$–$$ B LD ☎ K
BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL
3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-368-5919; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-732-5077; 701 N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-725-3777; bairsburgers.com.American. There are appeti ers and urgers on the menu at air s, plus plenty of non urger sandwiches, great chicken wings and salads. e love the urger that is topped with ranch dressing and fried pickles. So indulgent and delicious ou can get other sammies too, like fried pork tenderloin or a hilly cheesesteak. ours vary y location. $ LD K
BEST OF LUCK BEER HALL
313-B S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield; 417-522-9009; bestofluckbeerhall.com. American. This downtown eer hall com ines ackyard charm with killer food and more eers than you can count. f suds aren t your thing, try a seasonal cocktail or one of the draft alcoholic punches. The e tensive food menu includes things like uicy cheddarwurst rats and kimchi spiked fried chicken sandwiches. Open Tue. Thu., 11 a.m. midnight ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 a.m. runch Sat. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ B L D
BIG EASY GRILL
3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040. Cajun. The am alaya is fantastic, and we like to order it e tra spicy. The oyster po oys are customer favorites, and the oudin (Ca un sausage alls are not to e missed. Try mi and match dishes to create a meal full of your favorite Ca un flavors (you can order a side of red eans and rice with a po oy, for e ample . Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $ L D K
BIGSHOTS
GOLF
1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-427-3040, bigshotsgolf.com. American. Come for the golf ut stay for the good eats. There are great urgers (like the dou le smash urger with atch green chilis , pia, wings and lots of sharea le apps like the crispy red chili cauliflower. on t miss the fun cocktails. e loved the ee Sting, made with te uila, agave, grapefruit, lime uice and alape o. Open on. Thu. 1 a.m 11 p.m., ri. 1 a.m. midnight, Sat. a.m. midnight, Sun. a.m. 11 p.m. $$ B L D
BIG WHISKEY’S
Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com. American. Springfield s go to for u alo chicken dip, urgers and the staple pu foods has locations spreading throughout the idwest. on t miss the ever popular urgers, including the pret el urger with horseradish aioli, acon and cheddar. There are also meaty chicken wings, a handful of salads, hand cut steaks and more. ours vary y location. Ask a out runch service. $$ B L D
CAS AL
These seven dishes or drinks have passed our taste buds this month and made us rave. They are ranked by level of yumminess.
1
The Kimchi Rueben from The Golden Girl Rum Club (137 Park Central Square, Springfield, thegoldengirl.com is one of the est sandwiches we ve had. t s served on read from La ere akery, and it s a summer special. So get it while you can
2
Our new summer sipping addiction is the refreshing and flavorful homemade ginger and black pepper soda from Rise (105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417rise.com). t is very heavy on the ginger flavor, with ust enough sweetness. The hint of lack pepper rings a it of sophistication. This drink tastes good with everything.
3
The Bradford French Toast from Steamy Joe Café in ranson (at The Bradford Inn, 3590 State Highway 265, Branson, steamyjoe.com) is an morning meal winner. Two pieces of tender rench toast are stu ed with cream cheese and topped with a mi ed erry compote ursting with right flavor. Oh, and it comes with a hefty dollop of whipped cream too.
4
hen we are feeling under the weather, the chicken pho from Pho Kim (3433 S. Campbell
Ave., Suite C, Springfield) checks all the o es. t s comforting and warm. The roth is rich and flavorful. The fresh her s and a lime wedges are right and delightful.
5
e usually go to Karai Ramen & Hand Roll (640 W. Republic Road, Springfield, karairamen.com) for the e cellent ramen, ut the sushi has won us over lately too. The Tuna Belly Roll is a simple ut wonderful option that features uttery toro (aka fatty tuna elly and fresh green onion, and we love it.
6
or something cheesy and car loaded ut also am packed with veggies, we like to order the Italian Torte from Café Basilico (306 E. Commercial St., Springfield, facebook.com/CafeBasilicoSpringfield). t has flakey crust, spinach, tomatoes and so much melted cheese. hat s not to love
7 This is divisive, ut we think the grape a or ranks o. 1 at Pineapple Whip (multiple 417land locations, pineapplewhip.com), and we re rounding out our summer eating it every chance we get.
7 Good Things is chosen by the editors of 417 aga ine 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
The Kimchi Rueben from The Golden Girl Rum Club is a summer special served on La Mere Bakery bread.
BISTRO 58
15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417773-1985, vcellars.com. Bistro fare. This restaurant is o the eaten path and o ers a stellar selection of wine, a tasty lunch menu and a seasonal monthly dinner menu. ummy sandwiches fill the lunch menu, like the super tasty Steph sandwich. t features a cia atta roll that is topped with roasted chicken, orgon ola cheese, fig am and acon for a salty and sweet flavor profile. Open Tue. Sat., 11 a.m p.m. ri., 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 urger oint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield illage and on ast Sunshine Street. Chow down on the ood ogi two grass fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and aaad sauce. egetarian lack Sheep has you covered with its ippy en. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. midnight Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $ L D M
BLACKSTONE GASTROPUB
1521 E. Broadway St., Joplin, 417-553-0665
Gastropub. amien Tiregol of Cra y s Seafood ar rill now has another oplin eatery. lackstone astropu features hand crafted cocktails and 1 eers on tap alongside some great looking eats like the crispy fried chicken, grilled salmon on a ed of gnocchi. eep an eye out for lackstone s super creative daily specials. Open eds. Sat. 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m. p.m. on. 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $ $ L D
BLUE HERON FARM & BAKERY
206 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-701-1130
Farm-to-table. All of the freshly aked pastries and reads are ama ing here. They do some creative things with pastry, from tender galettes filled with loads of lucious lemon curd to flaky pot pies filled with savory meats and veggies. any of the ingredients are from lue eron arm and other local and regional producers. e love the sausage roll and the dreamy almond croissant. Open eds. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. 1 a.m. p.m. $ B L
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 y the cuisine of eru and the Andes ountains. A few standouts the lack ean uinoa urger with avocado spread, the Lomo Saltado, and a host of delicious entrees. The ceviche is a sure et. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ LD M WIFI
CANYON GRILL RESTAURANT
at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org. American. Located at ogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon rill estaurant o ers a menu of dishes like the ison urger made with acon and carameli ed onion topped with fire roasted po lano peppers and pepper ack cheese. Open daily, 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M
CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE
601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800. Cafe fare. hat do you get when you com ine a coffee shop, ar, cafe and li uor store Cherry icker ackage are. A small selection of sandwiches, soups and salads is served daily. e re ig fans of the To rie or ot to rie an Artisan Oven aguette topped with salted utter spread, thinly sliced ham, apricot preserves and a slice of rie. Open on. Thu., 7 a.m. 1 p.m. ri. Sat., 7 a.m. midnight. $ B LD
CIVIL KITCHEN & TAP
107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417501-8456, civilkitchenandtap.com. Bar fare. Civil itchen and Tap draws inspo from Southern and idwestern staples. Some favorites include salmon with fruit pico, crispy charred russels sprouts, huge salads and truly indulgent and gigantic attered onion rings. Open Tue. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 a.m. Sun., a.m. midnight $ B L D M ☎
CLUB 609
609 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-6090, club609.com. Casual fine dining. The menu is large at this oplin mainstay, and it o ers everything from sandwiches to delicious steaks. on t miss the pecan encrusted chicken or grilled ahi tuna entrees and e sure to order them with a side of flash fried spinach. There is a wide variety of entree salads (you have to try the Co , and soups are made fresh every day. They also have a killer happy hour. The kitchen is open Sun. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. ar is open till close. $$ L D K ☎
DERBY DELI
2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066. Cafe fare. Located inside rown er y nternational ine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus oard and more. e love the artin s salad, topped with roasted chicken, or the Local oat salad with a scoop of chicken salad. on t miss the arisian sandwich with rosemary ham, resident s utter and gruyere on a aguette. Open Tue. ri., 11 a.m. p.m. for lunch, Tue. ri., 11 a.m. 7 p.m. for small plates Sat., 11 a.m. 7 p.m. $ LD
DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT
at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417335-2777, bigcedar.com. American. ere you can en oy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Ta le ock Lake. or an appeti er, the smoked trout is fantastic, and so is the corn read topped with cracked pepper maple utter and smoked acon. The entrees change with the season and are always the perfect lend of rustic and upscale. Open daily for reakfast, 7 11 a.m. lunch, 11 a.m. p.m. dinner, p.m. $$–$$$ BLD WIFI K M ☎ (high season
DOBYNS DINING
ROOM
1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu.American. College of the O arks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farm to tale uality. or something hearty, try the pork elly shrimp and grits on t miss the chocolate co ler for dessert. Open on. Sat., 1 a.m. p.m. Sun., 1 a.m. p.m. $$ BLD WIFI K M ☎
DOWNING STREET POUR HOUSE
24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse.com. Serving elevated ar food and creative, hearty entrees, owning Street our ouse is the rainchild of the award winning ar ecue slingers who own ettin asted. ut there s a lot more than ust ar ecue here. ust try dishes include the giant avarian pret el appeti er, the ueso smothered tamales and the lackened mahi mahi entree. on t miss the wagyu urgers. Open in ollister on. Thu. 11 a.m. p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. 1 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. p.m. Open in Springfield Sun. Thu. 11 a.m. 1 p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. 11 p.m. $– $ $ L D WIFI K
FARMERS GASTROPUB
2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-864-6994, farmersgastropub.com. Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients and changes regularly. Try the Scotch eggs and delicious creamy mushroom soup. There s a great selection of eer, and the urgers and fish and chips are delicious. Open Tues. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m. $$ B LD M ☎ WIFI K
FIRE & ICE
2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-866-5253, oasisfireandice.com. Global cuisine. This spot (located inside amada Oasis otel Convention Center speciali es in dry aged steaks and certified Angus eef and has a delicious menu that changes with the seasons. e sure to try the ire ce hiskey urger with a aker s ark whiskey gla e and crispy fried onions. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ LD M ☎ WIFI K
GEORGIA MAC’S
1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-319-5770, georgiamacs.com. Southern sports bar. The food is hearty with a southern flare at this south Springfield eatery. ou can find loaded urgers (like the one topped with alape o ottle caps , fried catfish, country fried steak, loaded fries with tons of toppings, and more. Open on. Sat. 11 a.m. 1 1 a.m., Sun. 11 a.m. midnight. $ $ LD
THE GROTTO
301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-886-9600 gogrotto.com. West Coast–style American. The menu is accessi le to meat eaters and vegetarians alike. The super indulgent warm lue cheese chips are a favorite appeti er. Customers like the urgers (especially the urger topped with lots of tangy lue cheese . One of our favorite things is the grilled salmon sandwich with a side of the sweet and yummy sweet potato fries. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD K
HACKETT HOT WINGS
520 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-625-1333, hacketthotwings.com.American. The wings at ackett ot ings are fantastic. There are 1 flavors (ranging from tame ar ecue sauce to super fiery hot sauces that pack a huge punch . ut we re partial to the hot and honey sauce and the tasty house dry ru . ni addition to wings, you can find tasty treats like sweet potato pu s, readed cheese curds, freid dill pickles and more. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sun., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $ LD K
DINING GUIDE
HOULIHAN’S
2431 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-862-7777; houlihans.com. American. The fish tacos and urgers are fantastic, and we love the enormous nachos appeti er along with the vast salad selection. ra some friends and share a few of the small plates. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. 11 p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. midnight Sun., 1 a.m. 1 p.m. $–$$ LD M WIFI K
HUEY MAGOO’S CHICKEN TENDERS
3352 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-812-8020, hueymagoos.com. Chicken tenders. The region s first uey agoo s Chicken Tenders is located in Springfield near Sunshine Street and ighway . This spot o ers chicken tenders ( oth fried or grilled in platters, sandwiches, salads and wraps. f you get tenders, dip them in the Spicy agoo s homemade sauce. $–$$ LD K
HY EE
1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-8224; 2150 E. Sunshine St., Springfield; hy-vee.com. t s all a out variety when it comes to the freshly prepared food at y ee, so it s a great place to find something for every mem er of your family even the picky ones ou have a hi achi grill, a pi eria, hearty comfort food, sushi, Chinese dishes and ahl urgers urgers. $–$$ BLD WIFI
THE KEBAB SHACK
900 E. Battlefield, Suite 120, Springfield, 417-3069087. Mediterranean. ou can find tender and delicious steak and chicken ke a s (or chicken or eef shawarma , served with flavorful rice, fresh aladi salad and soft pita. egetarians can opt for a similar com o, ut with falafel instead of meat. ou can even get all those proteins served up as a wrap. Open daily 11 a.m. p.m. $$ LD
LA HABANA VIEJA
220 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-771-5723, la-habana-vieja.com. Cuban. ind great mo itos and a menu full of Cu an fare at this Commercial Street eatery. Try the ropa vie a, Cu a s national dish of eef risket, rice and veggies. ou can also get an appeti er of yucca fries, or ceviche that s served with plantain chips. Open on. Sat. 11 a.m. 1 p.m. and p.m. $$–$$$ LD
MACCHEESY’S
1920 E. Independence St., Springfield, 417-3513084; 2202 S. Range Line Road, Joplin, 417-6918256; maccheesys.com. There are 1 varieties of loaded macaroni and cheese and 1 types of grilled cheese sandwiches on the menu here, along with soups, salads and some over the top shakes that are piled high with tons of wild toppings. Open daily 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD K
NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE
2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-3403, nearlyfamous.net. Deli and Italian. egulars love the weekly specials egg salad on ridays, pear sandwiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastic, and it goes well with ust a out any sandwich at this friendly spot. t s hopping at lunchtime, and the dinner hours o er a menu filled with tasty pasta dishes. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ B LD K M
NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY
1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417-720-4162; neighborsmill.com. This full time akery o ers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches, soups and salads. on t miss the honey pecan chicken salad, which comes on ron e honey wheat read, or the eu en, which comes on pumpernickel rye read. Open on. Sat., 7 a.m. p.m. $ B L D K
THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT
at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com. nside the eautifully restored O ark ill, you can order upscale farm to ta le meals that are made with ingredients grown right at inley arms or produced in their on site apiary. on t miss the incredi le risotto fritters appeti er made with artichoke, sausage, mo arella and served over a pickled pepper aioli. Open daily 11 a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M K
PIER 28 PIZZA & GRILL
344 Nautical Circle, Kimberling City, 417-527-1580, pier28pizzagrill.com. American. Come for lakeside views and a menu filled with pi a, urgers, tacos and more. f you love fried pickles, get an order of the spicy pickle chips to share. The menu also offers salad options. eep an eye on their we site for updated seasonal hours. $$ LD K
QUEEN CITY SOUL KITCHEN
1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-379-8614, facebook.com/QueenCitySoulKitchen. Soul food. The menu changes from week to week here, ut the o erings are always delicious. ind comforting fare like meatloaf, fried chicken wings, smothered pork chops and more. ake sure you leave room for dessert ecause there are always classics like peach co ler or read pudding with rum sauce up for gra s. Open Thursday Sunday 11 a.m. 7 p.m.. $–$$ LD
REBAR KITCHEN & TAP ROOM
2902 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-597-4569, rebar-taproom.com. American. This spot features elevated takes on taproom fare. A few menu highlights include char roiled oysters, duck acon wontons, pi a, wings and more. There are several urgers, like the oglager urger topped with acon, onion strings, cheese and ar ecue sauce. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. and for runch Sat. Sun. 1 a.m. p.m. $$ BLD
RED ONION CAFÉ
204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe.com. American/Italian. The Tu edo Chicken is a customer favorite. iners also love the acon wrapped shrimp, the lackened tuna sandwich or ave s fried chicken salad. Try the LT A. (The A stands for avocado... yum Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ LD WIFI K
ROSIE JO’S CAFE
1711 S. 15th St., Ozark, 417-581-6047. American. This place is a popular hangout at reakfast with great daily specials, and it also has great homemade pies. The fried chicken is delicious at this eatery, and so are the fried dill pickles and the onion rings. Open on. Sat., 7 a.m. p.m. Sun., 7 a.m. p.m. $ BLD K
3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-755-7155, splitspringfield.com. American. Come for creative and eautifully prepared sharea les, like urrata with tru e pesto, that are served a teeny restaurant space that packs a lot of good vi es. e love the ama ing macaroni and cheese (get fried chicken with it as your optional protein . Open Tues. ri. 11 a.m. 1 p.m., Sat. 1 a.m. 1 p.m., Sun. 1 a.m. p.m. $$ BLD
ST. MICHAEL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE
301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315.American
The urgers are top notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken reast are a favorite (try the one with spicy Ca un chicken yum . Come hungry enough to order dessert ecause the cakes are stellar. Our favorite is the dreamy anana cake (nothing can eat it ut the lue erry lemon is a very close second. Open on. ed., 11 a.m. 4 p.m. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 11 p.m. $–$$ LD K ☎
TEA BAR & BITES
621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417-866-7500, teabarandbites. com. verything we ve tasted at Tea ar ites has een fantastic. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy uiche with eautiful, flaky crust. e love any of the menu items that have a editerranean flair. The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options. Open on. Thu., a.m. p.m. ri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. 4 p.m. $ BL D M ☎ V
VAN GOGH’S EETERIE
334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie.com. Indo-Dutch. utch pancakes, chicken witlof and other ndo utch and utch inspired cuisine populate the menu. e love the pancakes especially the arm ear Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. Open Tue. Thu., 1 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ BL D ☎
A C
BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ
2002 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com. iners love the ri s and the urnt ends at this classic ar ecue eatery. e can t get enough of the killer smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. And don t miss the alape o ottle caps. f you re e tra hungry, get the aked potato that s covered with ust a out everything. Open daily, 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD WIFI K
CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE
3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-720-1113, citybutchersgf.com. Come early ecause this Te as style ar ecue spot, where the meat is smoked in small atches for optimal freshness, is known to sell out. iller risket, pulled pork and other favorites are sold first come, first served with a few simple ut delicious side dish options. The smokehouse eans sidedish is super meaty and always delish, and the smoked chocolate chip cookies are super fun to try. Open daily 11 a.m. until sold out. $–$$ LD M
CROSSTOWN BBQ
1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646. Try the ri s or the risket. The ig appa inner is a signature dish, and it features ri s, risket and hot links. e loved the smoked chicken salad for something that feels healthy and indulgent at the same time. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD ☎ K
GETTIN’ BASTED
3242 S. Stewart Ave., Springfield; 2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com. Come here for award winning ar ecue in all your favorite varieties risket, ri s, pulled pork and more. The seven wagyu urgers on the menu are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong with homemade pimento cheese, ar ecue nachos and more. Open Sun. Thurs. 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. 11 a.m. 1 p.m.. $–$$ LD K
HEADY BAR B UE O
573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq. com. This spot speciali es in ansas City style arecue. Among stellar ri s, risket and more perfectly prepared meats, you can find une pected dishes with a ar ecue spin nachos, salads, a urrito. The sandwiches are all packed with ingredients, liked the ogwallop that has pull pork, hot link, pickled alape os, pepperd ack, pepper ack chese, sauteed onions and a special sauce. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. Sun., 1 a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD M K
PAPPY’S PLACE
943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744. e sure not to miss the pork spare ri s with appy s ar ecue sauce or the ar ecue nachos at this long running Springfield institution. ( tra perk e ve heard people say that appy s sells the very coldest eer in town. The restaurant s daily specials are delicious, too. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD
A AST
BILLY GAIL’S CAFE
5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com. illy ail s in ranson has een a eloved reakfast hotspot for ages. The O ark spot and has ecome ust as popular. Come for massive pancakes and other reakfast fare. The O ark location serves dinner on weekends. ranson open daily 7 a.m. p.m. O ark open daily 7 a.m. p.m. and ri. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m. $ BL D
THE BRUNCHEONETTE
424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net. e love the creative takes on eggs enedict that we ve found at The runcheonette, whose menu changes weekly ut is always interesting. on 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 ut mighty, and it s worth the wait for a ta le. Open ed. ri., a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun., a.m. until supplies run out. $ BL
EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST PUB
1717 E. Cherokee St., Springfield, 417-885-8088. This spot serves up creative reakfast fare and has a full service ar churning out reakfast margaritas and the ilk. onus Those reakfast margs are made with orange marmalade for a nod to the day s first meal. on t miss the tacos, urritos, traditional reakfast fare, sandwiches and more. Open on. ri., 7 a.m. p.m. Sat., 7 a.m. 4 p.m. Sun., a.m. 4 p.m. $ BL
FIRST WATCH
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 acon, eggs and toast. Or order something more creative. At irst atch you can find reakfast power owls (like the one filled with uinoa, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, kale and eggs , lemon ricotta pancakes, avocado toast, a superfood owl with chia pudding and fruit and lots more. Open daily, 7 a.m. p.m. $ BL K
GAILEY’S BREAKFAST CAFÉ
220 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-5500. The sweet potato hash rowns are super delish here, and we highly recommend ordering them in place of the traditional hash rowns. e also love The ear ug iscuits and gravy, choice of meat, two eggs and either hash rowns or sweet rowns. ailey s is known for reakfast, ut the restaurant also has a tasty lunch menu. Open Sun. Tues., 7 a.m. p.m., ed. Sat., 7 a.m. p.m. $ BL WIFI K
JW’S KITCHEN
2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997. This runch spot comes from the owners of armers astropu , Andy and isty ampshire. t features e cellently prepared favorites and some fun surprises. ou can get iscuits with chocolate gravy (a southern American favorite or a full nglish reakfast ( lack sausage included and everything in etween. Open eds. on. 7 a.m. p.m. $$ B L WIFI
RISE
105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-691-6088, 417rise.com. This spot is the rainchild of the same people who own uropean Cafe. The large and varied menu is inventive and super ly e ecuted, with clever dishes like pavlova inspired rench toast, aklava inspired elgian wa ees, oth sweet and savory rice pudding meals, nourishing grain owls, reakfast sandwiches from classic to creative and so much more. Treat yourself to a reakfast cocktail. Open on.. ri. 7 a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun. a.m. 4 p.m.. $ BL WIFI
SLEEPY OPOSSUM CAFE
1427 E. Cherry St., Springfield, 417-379-9401, danisflourpotbakery.com. Located inside The oyal, this darling spot serves creative, classic and always delicious reakfast fare. e are o sessed with their hash rown uiches, and the homemade iscuits topped with everything seasoning are to die for. Any aked sweet is a dream here too, especially the filled donuts and any of the creative cakes. e sure to order a cup of co ee. Open Tues. ri. 7 a.m. 1 p.m. Sat. a.m. 1 p.m., runch the first Sunday of the month a.m. noon. $ BL WIFI
C S
BAO BAO CHINESE BISTRO
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite A104, Springfield, 417-877-7505. Chinese food fans, this is a must try spot for you.This little spot in Chesterfield illage 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, a super tender duck entree, the veggie filled wonton soup, or the iao i dumplings. Open Sun. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD
CORNER 21
1369 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-766-6630, corner21us.com. This restaurant s menu o ers a large variety of authentic Chinese dishes, including several Sichuan style meals. Look for raised pork elly with rice noodles, ri eye and enoki mushrooms in a curry roth, crispy fried pumpkin, Sichuan fish and more. Open Tues. Thurs. 11 a.m. p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD
LEONG’S ASIAN DINER
1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-887-7500. The Leong family serves its original cashew chicken at this tasty eatery, among lots of other yummy stu . The cra angoon are especially delicious here, and we like to dip them in the old and spicy mustard sauce. The egg rolls are a classic, made from scratch with a peanut utter flair. The eneral Tso s chicken has a rich and spicy sauce and lots of veggies. Open on. Thu. 11 a.m. p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. 1 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD WIFI K
CO S O A
ARCHITECT COFFEE
1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-771-5030, architectcoffeeco.com. This nstagram chic co ee shop on Springfield s south side o ers a right and co y atmosphere with warm drinks and hearty food, to oot. The reakfast urritos are stellar and so filling. e love the seasonal drinks that change every so often, especially when they o er some version of a refreshing espresso tonic. Open on. ri., 7 a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ BL M WIFI
BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR
217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-865-9911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-868-4157; bigmommascoffee.com. This spot o ers co ee, espresso and lended frappes. ut there is more on the menu than ust drinks. e sure to try the super delicious sandwiches that are served here, too. The uliette is one of our favorite sandwiches from ig omma s. Open on. ri., 7 a.m. 1 p.m. Sat. Sun., a.m. 1 p.m. $ BL D M WIFI
THE BLACK LAB COFFEE CO.
545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook. com/theblacklabllc 300 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-942-7881, facebook.com/BlackLabDowntown; 3541 S. Lone Pine Ave, Springfield. This casually canine inspired co ee stop o ers drinks like the lack La , which includes to ee nut and chocolate. The aked goods are e cellent. Open on. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ BL V WIFI
GOOD FOOD ALWAYSWINS
CAFE CUBANO
3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-7777, facebook.com/countrygirlsespresso. Aside from all of the delicious co ee drinks, the real must try item here is the authentic Cu an sandwich, served pressed on Cu an read. Cafe Cu ano s signature is its Cafe Con Leche with scalded milk. Open on. Sat., a.m. 7 p.m. $ BL D WIFI K
CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE
1900 W. Sunset St., Springfield, 417-881-7625, classicrockcoffee.com; 535 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-771-5143, classicrockcoffeedowntown.com. This co ee shop o ers espresso drinks with rock n roll inspired names. Try the Sweet motion latte (with chocolate and caramel and a ham and cheese pu pastry reakfast pocket to start your day. Open on. ed., a.m. p.m. Thu., a.m. 1 p.m. ri., a.m. midnight Sat., 7 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 co ee, rewed one cup at a time, or any of the creative and delicious seasonal drinks. The cappuccino is fantastic (truly one of the est we ve ever had , and the shop also serves wine, craft eers on draft and a small selection of uality li uors. The food game here is strong too, with loaded oatmeal, freshly aked mu ns and more. e love the ottled lattes too.Open on. Sat., 7 a.m. p.m. $ WIFI
DANCING MULE COFFEE COMPANY
1945 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-5114, dancingmulecoffee.com. The mochas are great here chocolatey ut not too sweet. ancing ule also does a really good authentic cappuccino that s made ust right. Try the eanut utter andango rappe 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 on. ri., a.m. 7 p.m. Sat., 7 a.m. p.m. Sun., 7 a.m. 4 p.m. $ B WIFI
ECHELON COFFEE
2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-374-2739, echeloncoffee.com. This sunny co ee shop (with a drive thru has e cellent espresso drinks, drip coffee, pour over and more. The cortado is always well done. And we love The ormation (espresso with vanilla, cinnamon and honey prepared as a frappe when we re feeling indulgent. on t miss the delish reakfast and lunch fare too. Open on. ri. a.m. p.m., Sat. 7 a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m.. B L D WIFI
EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE
445 E. Commercial St., 417-720-1949, culturecstreet. com. This co ee roaster with a mission also serves some tasty fare in its Culture Cafe. n addition to carefully crafted cups of co ee, there are e cellent lunch items. ecently we ve en oyed the chicken tikka naan wich and the smoky chili. e love ordering the miso caramel latte too. Open on. Sat., 7 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D M WIFI
Hours 11am–1:15am: Mon.–Sat. 11am–12am: Sun.
Celebrate community at Georgia Mac’s, your go-to sports pub & grill. Enjoy homemade southern comfort foods and specialty drinks, creating the perfect backdrop for memorable moments. Visit georgiamacs.com.
1440 E. Republic Road 417-319-5770 | georgiamacs.com
KINGDOM COFFEE
211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-3501234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf.com. The co ee menu features classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos, mochas and more. e love the classic cortado the most, and the not too sweet and super creamy iced matcha latte is truly delicious. f you can get your hands on it, e sure to order a cheddar and chive scone (and ask them to warm it up . Open daily, 7 a.m. 7 p.m. $ B L D WIFI
MUDHOUSE COFFEE
323 South Ave. Suite B, Springfield, 417-832-1720, mudhousecoffee.com. The co ee is always fantastic here, at Springfield s O downtown co ee shop. lus, udhouse also o ers a wide variety of loose leaf teas. The mu ns here are huge and delicious (make sure you try the one with erries it s our favorite . Open on. Sat., 7 a.m. 11 p.m. Sun., a.m. 11 p.m. $ BL D WIFI
THE
PRESS COFFEE & JUICE BAR
2710 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-771-5950. This whole foods cafe o ers organic dishes with ingredients from local market vendors. uices are organic and cold pressed. The real draw here is the e ican orean fusion menu, featuring gogi nachos, kimchi fried rice and street tacos. The gogi uesadilla with kimchi is our favorite we like to order it with tofu and e tra go i sauce on the side for dipping every crispy ite of our uesadilla. Open on. Sat., a.m. 7 p.m. $ BL D WIFI
Hours: Sun: 11am–8pm Mon: Closed Tues-Thurs: 8am–9pm (some kitchens close at 8pm) Fri: 8am–11pm (some kitchens close at 10pm) Sat: 9am–11pm (some kitchens close at 10pm)
A diverse marketplace with ten unique restaurant concepts. Try Fresh Poke’s “Dynamite Bowl” with spicy Dynamite sauce, jalapenos, cucumber, avocado, sweet onion, Sriracha, seaweed salad, seeds and Nori.
203 E. Mt Vernon St., Nixa 417-763-6500 | 14millmarket.com
URBAN GROUNDS COFFEE & PLANT LAB
5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, urbangrounds417.com. This spot speciali es in drinks made with locally roasted co ee. Try classics like lattes and cappuccinos, or opt for a flavored options (like salted caramel to ee or a otanical latte made with things like eetroot, turmeric and more. hen you re hungry, munch on one of the loaded toasts, a gra ing tray, a smoothie owl and more. Open on. ri. a.m. p.m., Sat. Sun. a.m. 4 p.m. $ B L
THE WORKSHOP AT FINLEY FARMS
840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com. The orkshop is a co ee shop and gathering space. The menu includes classic co ee and tea o erings plus super si ed suped up toasts (the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious . on t miss the delicious creamy chicken salad. Open on. Sat., 7 a.m. p.m. $ B L WIFI
L S SA C S O S
J. PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI
1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-1148, queencitydeli.com. This spot serves pasta, soups, salads and sandwiches. on t miss The urnes ( eef tenderloin on garlic read or the talian eef sandwiches. ou can t go wrong with the pastrami sandwich that s incredi ly meaty piled high ust like they do it in ew ork City delis. Open on. Sat., 1 a.m. p.m. $ L D
DINING GUIDE
MYTHICAL ‘WICH
113 E. Main St., Branson, mythicalwich.com. This sandwich shop comes from the owners of another ranson favorite ettin asted. t o ers a large selection of old lunch and reakfast sandwiches, like the oly and renade topped with pastrami hash and a fried egg. There are also soups, salads and desserts like the anana pudding that we re dying to try. Open daily a.m. p.m.. $ B L D
THE SANDWICH SCENE
208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-685-9682, thesandwichscene.com. This little spot started out inside Sweet oy s eigh orhood ar and has now found a home of its own on c aniel Street. This spot slings some seriously good sammies. on t miss the ur ano, made with mo o pork, house made terrine, ham, swiss and spicy giardiniera. Open 1 a.m. 4 p.m. onday Saturday. $ L D
THE SUB SHOP
1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-887-3804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8077. The ighter ilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, anana peppers, lettuce and su sauce. e sure to try the sandwich specials (also known as the secret sandwiches they are always creative and delish. it an AT on the way there, ecause The Su Shop is cash only. Seminole Street location open on. ri., 1 a.m. p.m. est c aniel Street location open on. ri., 1 a.m. 4 p.m. $ L
Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned Thai food enthusiast, Everyday Thai invites you to discover Thailand’s diverse culinary heritage. Open six days a week, they are honored to provide the best Thai food in Southwest Missouri. 220 W. B ttlefield d., Spr n field 1 0 01 m ever d th . m
SS TS S TS
ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD
Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com. on t miss the rotating seasonal toppings (our sta ers love the key lime pie 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 pecans. Open Sun. Thu., 11 a.m. 11 p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. midnight. $
BOX TURTLE CREAMERY
1458 E. Cherry St., Springfield. This cute little creamery in the ountree neigh orhood serves handmade scoops in flavors ranging from familiar to adventurous. e loved the lemon cran erry and the anana honeycom ice creams the most so far. ou can get a si scoop ice cream flight. un onus t has a walk up window. Open 4 p.m. $
EUROPEAN CAFÉ
207 Park Central East, Springfield, 417-569-6702, 417europeancafe.com. Along with co ee drinks, this little akery serves lovely croissants, eautiful desserts, perfect pastries and more. Their macarons are to die for, and the pretty little mousse cakes are almost too lovely to eat. e love the uiche here as well. t pairs perfectly with the ever changing seasonal co ee and tea drinks, which are always delicious and full of lovely ingredients. Open on. Thurs., 7 a.m. p.m. ri., 7 a.m. 11 p.m. Sat., a.m. 11 p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ WIFI
HURTS DONUT
320 Park Central West, Springfield, 417-719-4119; 1111 E. Republic Road, Suite 164, Springfield, 417755-7574; wannahurts.com. Outside the o toppings cover these super delicious doughnuts, and they are availa le 4 hours a day in downtown Springfield. A customer favorite is the maple acon ar, a huge, salty sweet concoction that is oh so delish. Open 4 hours. $ BL D WIFI
LUCKY
CAT
BOBA TEA & TAIYAKI
3424 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-351-3136. There is a hefty menu of u le tea options (we like the passionfruit mo ito u le tea that comes with fresh lime and mint leaves plus sweet snacks like mitarashi dongo skewers, red ean filled mochi, and darling slices of cake. The taiyaki are fish shaped wa es cakes with tasty fillings that come in a variety of flavors like. f you want something savory, try the pork steamed uns. Open Sun. Thu. 11 a.m. p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m. $ WIFI
PRAIRIE PIE
307 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com. rairie ie makes stellar all utter crust pies in flavors that range from classic to inventive. The caramel apple pie is an elevated take on a classic and is uite popular. Any of owner leanor Taylor s pies made with rhu ar (some with cherry, some with straw erry are super . Stop y the storefront for other o erings as well, such as savory pot pies, cookies and cra y good mashed potatoes. Open Thurs. Sun. 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ L WIFI
SOCIETEA
1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-4094, facebook.com/societea. u le tea is the name of the game here. hether you re a u le tea veteran or looking to try something new, this is your place. e love that you can customi e the sweetness level of your drinks and top them with options we don t see often at other o a tea spots (like ig pieces of co ee elly, or creamy cheese foam . Open on. Thu., 1 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 1 a.m. p.m. Sun., 1 a.m. p.m. $ WIFI
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. e love the gla ed lueerry and the chocolate cake donuts. Open daily, a.m. p.m. ational Avenue location closed Sunday O ark location closed onday. $ B
BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND
1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291. illy o s is an institution that serves sweets and American food on the strip in ranson. There are 4 flavors of fried pies, cheese urgers (pro tip top them with grilled onions , foot long hot dogs and more. Open daily, 1 a.m. p.m. $ L D
CASPER’S
937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield. This local favorite is filled with right colors and a kitschy vi e. The spot serves overflowing owls of chili and a few other yummy diner options (like urgers and hot dogs . Another yummy favorite ham and eans with corn read when you can get it on special. Open on. ri., 1 a.m. p.m. Sat., 1 a.m. p.m. $ B L D K
DRUFF’S
331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-719-1719, yumdruffs.com. ru s rings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses, soups and creative sides. or a little heat, try the ood octor, made with cheddar, cream cheese, acon and alape o, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a nutella and straw erry grilled sando it s nuts. ru s also offers a ro ust runch and filling reakfast menu. e love the reakfast owls. Open Tue. ed., 7 a.m. 4 p.m. Thu. Sat., 7 a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. 4 p.m. $ L D
RED’S GIANT HAMBURG
2301 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. A revival of the oute staple (the original ed s is rumored to e the country s first drive through restaurant , this diner serves up as much nostalgia as it does classic urgers. Opt for the stacked high griddle urgers 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 reakfast menu if you re up early. Open daily, a.m. 1 p.m. $ B L D K
Hours 11am–9:30pm
Authentic Chinese cuisine restaurant, offering great prices, a friendly staff and fresh food. Dine in, use the convenient drive through or enjoy outside dining on the lovely patio.
1710 S. Kansas Expy., SGF | 417-832-8889 555 E. Elm St., Republic | 417-732-9888
Never-ending summer vibes with beachy dishes, and elevated bar bites at a local bar and grill. Warning: the cocktails & atmosphere will be hard to leave!
W State Hwy NN, Ozark, MO 65721 417-771-9330 | volleyballbeachozark.com
S AS S OO S
THE SQUEEZE INN
404 RB Road, Stockton, 417-276-6302. Order the S uee e with Cheese, a pound griddle cooked urger that s smothered in so much shredded cheddar cheese that it overflows the patty and creates a cheese skirt of crunchy cheddar. t s huge and so delicious Cash or checks only. Open Tues. 11 a.m. p.m., eds. 11 a.m. p.m., Thu. 11 a.m. p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m. $ L D
INDIAN
INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL
2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill.com.
Come to this yummy little spot on the ranson strip to indulge in some tasty ndian fare. e loved the karahi lam (tender lam , ell peppers and onion in a spicy sauce and the mushroom aloo matar (mushrooms, potatoes and peas in a creamy sauce . Open daily, 11 a.m. p.m., 1 p.m. $$ L D
NAWAB’S
INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR
3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050. ind all your favorite ndian dishes here (the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are e cellent along with others you might not have seen efore. or e ample, the gol gappay is a crispy little hollow fried all filled with chickpeas, potato, onion and spices. Open eds. on. 11 a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat. 1 p.m. Sun., on., eds. p.m. $$ L D
DINING GUIDE
TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT
1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573. ou can find all your ndian favorites here on the large menu. There is a variety of naan read (and it s so, so soft and perfect , many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts like rice pudding and gula amun (donuts soaked in syrup . e are o sessed with the lam rogan osh and the chicken alfre i. Open for lunch and dinner daily. $$ L D
ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE
311 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, 417-351-4400, zaykaspringfield.com. There s a lot to love a out this downtown Springfield spot. The vegeta le korma, chicken tikka masala and malai kofta are ust a few of our favorite dishes. Open Tue. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. open for dinner Tue. Thu., p.m. ri. Sat., 1 p.m. Sun., p.m. $ $$ L D M
ITALIAN
AVANZARE, please see listing p. 107
BAMBINO’S CAFÉ
2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8814442; bambinoscafe.com. The oppa is a popular pasta dish here t comes with penne pasta, talian sausage, mushrooms and a spicy tomato cream sauce. The elmar location is great for a meal alfresco. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., noon p.m. $ L D WIFI K
Visit Garbo’s Pizzeria where St. Louis style meets Springfield tradition! The handcrafted pizzas, pastas, appetizers and award-winning salads are sure to make this spot, nestled in Chesterfield Village, a favorite local hangout.
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., C101 417-883-9010 | garbospizzeria.com
BASILICO ITALIAN CAFE
306 Commercial St., Springfield, 417-873-9224, basilicoitaliancafe.com. on t miss the delicious tortellini car onara here, or the penne pesto cream with chicken (a dreamy com o of alfredo and pesto sauces . The lo ster and shrimp ravioli in spinach mushroom sauce is another delight. Open p.m. eds., 11 a.m. p.m. Thurs. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. Sun. $$ L D WIFI K
BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT, see p. 107
FLORENTINA’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO
2690 Green Mountain Drive, Branson, 417-3379882, florentinasristoranteitaliano.com. hen you re hungry for talian fare during your vacation in ranson, this talian eatery is the place to go. t serves delicious rick oven pi as and pastas on a ig menu that has a little something for everyone. Open Sun. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. tended summer hours. $$ LD K M ☎
GILARDI’S, please see listing p. 107
THE HILL
600 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-920-8850, thehilldining.com. The ill is an all you can eat spot o ering talian fare. ill up on pastas, rick oven pi as, soups, salads and more. Open on. ri., 11 a.m. p.m. on. Thu., 4 p.m. ri., 4 p.m. Sat., p.m. Sun., p.m. runch served Sat. Sun., 1 a.m. p.m. $ $$ LD M
east on the freshest avors in the Ozarks at The Order. The seasonal menu features a modern take on issouri cuisine showcasing locally sourced ingredients and crafted cocktails. e sure to plan ahead for complimentary valet with dinner reservations.
0 . W lnut St., Spr n field 1 8 1 2 the rders . m
NICOLA’S RISTORANTE, see listing p. 108
NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ
306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-831-1222, nonnascafe.net. Italian. The seafood lasagna is a must try dish, and the spicy arra iata lasagna is cra y good. The Tuscan pappardelle ragu is e cellent, and the pesto linguini is a delight. onna s also does a Sunday runch with regular menu items from 11 a.m.– p.m. Open Sun. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m 1 p.m. $$ LD K M ☎
PICCOLO
107 West Aldersgate Drive, Suites 1 and 2, Nixa, 417374-7291, eatpiccolo.com. iccolo serves piled high pastas, pi as, steak and chicken entrees. Start things o with the talian achos, or the al oa alls, uicy meat alls stu ed with mo arella and finished with goat cheese and marinara. Open Tue. Thu., 4 p.m. ri., 4 1 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD WIFI ☎ M
SALVATORES
FRESH RISTORANTE ITALIANO
1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com. The menu here is packed with handmade pastas that are freshly crafted every day. ou can also find other talian options, like a fried artichokes appeti er to a Tuscan T one steak entree. lus there are urgers, pi as and sandwiches too. Open Tue. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD
A A S
ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA please see p. 107
CRAFT SUSHI
251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417-3195887, facebook.com/craftsushi. ra a customi ed sushi or poke owl here. Anything with the raw salmon or the spicy pork is always a hit as well, and there are a ton of topping and veggie options. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ LD
HARUNO, please see listing p. 107
HINODE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE
4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777. inode is known for hi achi meals with perfectly cooked proteins and all the e tras rice, stir fry noodles, veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. Open daily, 11 a.m. p.m. Sun. Thu., 4 p.m. ri. Sat., 4 1 p.m. $$ LD K M ☎
KAI, please see listing p. 108
KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL 640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225. The arai amen with a flavorful and spicy house made roth is incredi le, and we like to get it with a seasoned soft oiled egg. on t miss the tasty hand rolls or the steamed uns filled with shredded pork, spring onions and teriyaki sauce. Open on. ri., 11 a.m. p.m. on. Thu., 4 1 p.m. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 4 11 p.m. $ LD
NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE
2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-881-7171, nakato.com. erformance style hi achi dining is what akato is known for. And they are super good at it A little entertainment plus a great meal. All of the sushi is top notch here as well. on t miss the enny oll, a favorite. Open on. ri., 4 1 p.m. Sat., 4 1 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m., 4 p.m. $$ LD K M ☎
NIJI SUSHI
3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417851-1707. n addition to a large variety of sushi rolls (we love the Cherry lossom oll and the Spicy ummy oll , this menu also oasts rain ow right cocktails and seven types of ramen soups. Come with friends so you can share and sample lots of rolls. or dessert, try the flu y apanese cheesecake. Open Sun. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ LD
SAKURA
3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000. There s a solid sushi menu (the Sam s oll never disappoints if you like a roll with a lot going on , and you can order a sushi don uri o to really get some ang for your uck if you prefer to keep your sushi meals simple and refreshing. The ento o es are great too, packed with your choice of entree, rice, salad, miso soup, fruit, spring rolls and more. e recommend getting teriyaki salmon in your ento o it s always delish. Open Tue. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ LD WIFI M ☎
SUSHI VILLAGE
1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-890-1016, facebook.com/springfieldsushivillage. This co y sushi spot has a warm date night atmosphere with cherry lossoms and plants around every corner and tons of sushi to choose from. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m., 4 p.m. ri., 11 a.m. p.m., 4 1 p.m. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $$ LD WIFI
O A
BAWI KOREAN BBQ
4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-886-2777, bawikbbq.com. awi orean rings an authentic orean dining e perience to Springfield, where you ll pay a flat fee of for an all you can eat meal. ou cook the meat yourself on ta letop grills. Open on. Thu., 4 p.m. ri. Sat, 4 1 p.m. Sun., 4 p.m. $$ D
GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT
1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093
This spot serves up delicious and authentic orean food. The eef ulgogi and dolsot i im ap are est sellers here. e also love the fried dumplings and kim op.Try the tasty kimchi fried rice or spicy octopus stir fry. f you re in the mood for something really comforting on a cold day, opt for the kimchi chigae. ou also get a variety of orean side dishes alongside your meal. Open ed. on., 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD WIFI ☎
KORIYA
DINING GUIDE
4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077. This spot serves create your own i im ap dishes, and you can choose etween chicken, eef ulgogi, tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the apchae, made with stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD
T A A
GREEK BELLY
320 E. Walnut St., 417-597-3382, greekbelly.com. e love everything we ve tasted here Try a tasty pork or chicken gyro topped with creamy t at iki, tomatoes, onions and rench fries on a soft pita. Our favorite, though, is the loukaniko wrap. t s an orange spiced pork sausage served in a pita with spicy feta dip, fresh veggies and rench fries. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. runch served the second Sunday of each month, 1 a.m. p.m. $ L D ☎ WIFI K
THAT LEBANESE PLACE
338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677. The ki eh is fantastic if you like her aceous and satisfying eats, and any of the delicious and meaty ke a s is a great choice. e love the stu ed grape leaves appeti er, served with a tahini dipping sauce. The falafel mushakal sandwich is great too. Open Tue. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $ $$ LD
VASKEN’S DELI
3200 Gretna Road, Suite D, Branson, 417-334-9182, vaskensdeli.com. The gyros are fantastic here. ake sure you get them with traditional gyro meat, and don t skip the t at iki sauce verything s etter with t at iki sauce, right e are nuts for the eef shawerma too, though. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. 4 p.m. tended summer hours. $ L D WIFI K
CA
CABOS BONITOS GRILL & CANTINA
406 South Ave., Springfield, 417-221-3490. Come to this downtown Springfield spot for all your e ican favorites plus some fun and uni ue dishes like the fried avocado appeti er. t has eer attered avocado halves filled with your choice of meat and topped with sour cream and chipotle ranch sauce. Open Sun. 11 a.m. p.m., on. Thu. 11 a.m. p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. 11 p.m. $$ LD
CANTINA LAREDO
1001 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-3346052, cantinalaredo.com. Located on ranson Landing, it has a great view of the choreographed fountain and of Lake Taneycomo and the lu s across the water. The menu is large and varied with something for everyone, and we especially love the salsas. Open Sun. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $$ LD
This month, celebrate and honor Chef David Leong's legacy during his birth month by indulging in his legendary Cashew Chicken, a dish that transformed culinary traditions!
CASA BELLA MEXICAN CUISINE
4610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-771-5031; 300 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-885-9097. The menu is huge at Casa ella, which has two Springfield locations. Try the tasty ceviche, any of the street tacos, or the spicy camarones a la dia la. Open Sun. 11 a.m. p.m., on. Thu. 11 a.m. p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $$ LD
CATRINA’S MODERN MEXICAN
2925 Battlefield Road, Suite 105, Springfield, 417350-1006, catrinascantina.com. This spot serves authentic sharea le dishes and full entrees. Look for hand crushed guacamole that can e loaded up with chicharron. The grilled plaintains are a treat Some of our favorite entrees are the sopes topped with shredded eef, the spicy ucatan shrimp and the Catrina uesadilla. The cocktail menu is e cellent here too.Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m., Sun., noon p.m. $$ LD
CESAR’S OLD
MEXICO
2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-881-8252. ndulge in authentic e ican food at incredi ly reasona le prices. e love the irria taco, which is filled with succulent shredded eef. on t miss the Salvadorian pupusas stu ed with eans and cheese they are delightful. The carnitas torta is also e cellent. t s huge and is stu ed with savory carnitas, topped with melted cheese, tomatoes, lettuce and mayo and then sandwiched etween a pillowy un. eed we say more Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $ LD
EL PARAISO MEXICAN KITCHEN
610 W. College St., Springfield, 417-771-5641; 305 E. Chestnut St., Suite C, Strafford, 417-736-0019; elparaisokitchen.com. This Stra ord ased e ican restaurant now has an outpost in owntown Springfield too. They are known for a great lineup of margaritas and all your favorite e ican dishes. or an app, try the flaming cheese or the ceviche. or an entree, try the pi a a la parrilla a fresh pineapple owl filled with grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, scallops, veggies and more. Springfield open on. Thu. 11 a.m. p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. midnight, Sun. 11 a.m. p.m. Stra ord open on. Thu. 1 a.m. p.m., ri. Sat. 1 a.m. 1 p.m., Sun. 1 a.m. p.m. $$ LD
IGUANA ROJA
107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO-13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net. There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery located on the s uare in O ark. on t miss the one made with alape os it has a kick that s so much fun to drink. The chips are e cellent here, with a yummy seasoning sprinkled on top of every one. Open Tue. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $–$$ L D K
LA PALOMA
3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7194484, dienlapaloma.com; 1425 W. Battlefield St., Springfield, 417-889-2985, thelapaloma.com. This spot o ers a huge range of e ican dishes including fish tacos, which are e cellent. attered and fried fish is topped with fresh pic de gallo, ca age and a creamy chipotle sauce and then
served with e ican white rice. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D
MEXICAN VILLA
Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net. This spot is a favorite among longtime Springfield locals, and it is known for its sweet sauce served with tortilla chips. Also popular is the Sancho nchilada Style a huge urrito that is completely swimming in red enchilada sauce. ids love the chicken fingers, and you can even purchase the sweet salsa in a ar to go. ours vary y location. $ L D K
PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-890-1212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com. iners love the pollo a ovado, an ounce chicken reast that s grilled and topped with homemade chori o, white ueso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos three soft corn tortillas filled with steak, cilantro and onions and served with rice, eans and avocado. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D WIFI K
PURPLE BURRITO
1700 S. Campbell Ave., Suite A, Springfield, 417-8636688. e love the street style tacos. The pastor taco with onions and cilantro is great. And the fish tacos are some of our favorite fish tacos anywhere. A dinner favorite is the carne asada urrito. or something a little di erent and a lot indulgent, try the super cheesy chili relleno urrito. Open on. Sat. 1 a.m. 1 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K M
SEÑOR JULIAN MEXICAN BAR & GRILL
3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417240-2120. This tiny restaurant packs ig flavors, with a menu that features traditional e ican soups, handmade to order flour tortillas, uesa irria tacos, massive uesadillas, fa ita aked potatoes and more. The tacos especiales are a favorite, filled with carne asada, cilantro, onions, ueso fresco and avocado. f you like po ole, come on the weekends when they serve oth that and menudo. on t miss the huge margaritas menu, featuring fun options like their mangonada margarita and a great selection of te uilas. Open on. 11 am. p.m., eds. Thu. 11 a.m. p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. 1 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D K
TEAM TACO
1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf.com. Let the little ru y red uilding near ickwick Avenue and Cherry Street e your guiding eacon to flavor packed tacos, nachos and rice owls. This tiny cafe serves ma or flavors in its taco menu. e re fans of the lo etrotter pork elly taco, and we always have to taste test the inger, the shop s rotating special taco. e also love the te uila and me cal ased cocktails that pair so well with all those tasty tacos with their ig flavors. Open on. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $ L D
TINGA TACOS
308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8007, tingatacossgf.com. This downtown taco shop is open late slinging shells of its wildly creative com-
inations. e are partial to the u u made with super flavorful marinated tofu or the ruity iggles with uicy pork and fig am for a salty sweet comination. Open Tue. ed., 11 a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat., 11 a.m. a.m. $ L D
TORTILLERIA PERCHES
1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-864-8195. This tiny little authentic e ican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a e ican soda, a traditional e ican soup or a tamale when you visit. on t miss Taco Tuesdays and Tamale Thursdays, where the dishes are only a dollar. Open Tue. ri., 1 a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. 4 p.m. Sun., a.m. 4 p.m. $ BL D
A AS A
OCEANZEN, please see listing on p. 108
NOODLE 21
2001 State Highway 248, Suites 1 & 2, Branson. Here you ll find dishes from orean, apanese, Chinese and Thai cuisines, including a menu of freshly made sushi rolls. Try the hot stone i im ap, pho and ramen soups, or the teriyaki owls. op into essert 1 ne t door for co ee drinks and ingsu desserts chipped ice topped with a variety of sweets like fruit, rownies, mochi, sweet red ean and more. Open daily 11 a.m. p.m., 4 p.m. $–$$ L D
ARRIS’ PIZZA
1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-7260, arrispizzaonline.com. Thin crust pi as have a reek flair at Arris i a. e sure to order the Athena (a pi a made with feta, pepperoni, olives, mushrooms and green peppers if you want to try one that ursts with flavor. The ruschetta is a great appeti er, and it s unlike ruschetta we ve had other places. Open Tue. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m., p.m. $–$$ L D M
THE BIG SLICE
1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com. ou can get ig ew ork style rick oven pi a y the slice here. Or uy a whole pie if you prefer, ut either way make sure to try to the chicken acon ranch pi a. e love the creamy spinach pi a too. Open daily, 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $–$$ L D
ARM NE S WOOD F RED P A
524 South Joplin Avenue, Joplin, 417-691-8523, carmineswoodfiredpizza.com. ou can find truly e cellent ew ork style, eapolitan style and etroit style pi a at Carmine s. e love eapolitan the est, and the La ughetta topping com o (mo arella, prosciutto, grape tomatoes, shaved armesan and arugula is our favorite. on t miss the cal ones, pasta dishes, and gelato. Open Tues. Thu. p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m. $$ L D
PIZZA
GARBO’S PIZZERIA
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-883-9010, garbospizzeria.com. f you love a loaded St. Louis style pi a, try the toppings packed randiose. Or try the avarian pi a for something a little di erent it is topped with Canadian acon and sauerkraut. Customers are ig fans of the ar o s house salad and its tasty homemade dressing. Open ed., Thu., Sun. 11 am. p.m. ri. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M
GODFATHER’S PIZZA
1026 W. Main St., Branson, 417-332-1001, godfatherspizza.com. This locally owned outpost serves an un eata le pi a ar, salad ar, dessert ar and chicken ar serving the hard to find roasted chicken chicken which is pressure fried to uicy perfection served with all the classic sides. Of course, if pi a is on the mind, this spot has every flavor and topping imagina le. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $ L D M K
HOOK & LADDER PIZZA CO.
26 Downing St., Hollister, 417-336-4665, hookandladderpizza.com. f you find yourself in ollister and craving some pi a, stop at ook Ladder i a Co. This spot serves all your pi eria favorites, from toasted ravioli to su sandwiches. The specialty pi as look great, like the alfredo or the chicken acon ranch. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ L D ☎
IMO’S PIZZA
600 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-862-1222; 636 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-886-4667; imospizza.com. A true St. Louis style original, mo s serves pi a on cracker thin crust with lots of provel cheese. e like the tasty elu e pi a. ut our favorite is the simple com o of mushrooms and talian sausage. The cheesy read is ridiculously indulgent and covered in a thick layer of melted provel cheese. oth locations open daily, 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D
MASO PIZZA BAR
3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1047 aso i a ar is owned y icola ilardi and located ust a few door down from his other restaurant, icola s istorante. And ust like at icola s, everything on the menu is delish. e can t wait to try options like the ic ise and Shine, talian Stallion and vegetarian friendly onica ealthy pies. The menu also spans salads, panini, pasta, soups and more. Open on. Sat., p.m. close. $$ D WIFI
MCSALTY’S PIZZA CAFÉ
1550 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-4324. A mainstay in Springfield, cSalty s serves delicious pi a and has een part of the Springfield landscape forever. The ear ie is a tasty supreme that s loaded up with lots of toppings. There are also su sandwiches. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $ L D WIFI M ☎
MR. G’S CHICAGO PIZZA
202 N. Commercial St., Branson, 417-335-8156, mrgschicagopizza.com. There s a lot to like a out this ranson pi a oint a family friendly atmosphere, hearty talian food and e cellent Chicago style pi a. They make all of the pi a dough from
DINING
GUIDE
scratch. or a hearty taste, dig in to the supreme pi a, with homemade sausage, pepperoni and lots of veggies. Open on. Thurs., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ L D WIFI
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 arella cheese, red onions, cilantro. Also, e sure you try the meat alls. e really like the salads here as well. Open on. ed., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Thu. Sat., 11 a.m. a.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D
THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB
2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-368-0277. ith a menu full of pi a, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pu fare and a killer eer selection, there s something to please everyone. e love to uild our own pi a with alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. e sure to order the russels sprouts appeti er they are flash fried and crispy, served with crispy potatoes, lardons, goat cheese and a alsamic reduction dri le. Try the carrot cake for dessert. estaurant open on. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. pu open later. $ $ L D M WIFI K
PIZANO’S PIZZA
106 E. Jackson St., Willard, 417-742-5115, pizanoandsauce.com. ou can get a little it of ew ork up in illard at this pi eria. This spot serves ew ork style pi a in addition to cal ones, su sandwiches and pasta. ough is made fresh daily, and there s even a gluten free option. Tue. ri., 11 a.m. p.m. Sat., 4 p.m. $–$$ L D
PIZZA HOUSE
312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-881-4073
This restaurant has een 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 e missed and is a favorite of lifelong locals. Our favorite thing there any pi a that includes acon. Open Tue. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $ L D WIFI
ROCCO’S PIZZA & SUBS
Multiple 417-land locations; roccospizzaandsubs. com. This talian eatery speciali es in ew ork style pi a that has any ody who s een to the east coast swooning. t s legit. Also on the menu are hot su s, like meat all or eggplant armesan, plus salads, cal ones and a handful of pasta entrees. $–$$ L D
S, LO S A S
ANDY B’S TIKI BAR
433 Promenade Way, Branson, 417-213-8631, bransontikibar.com. ig news for lovers of island style evs and casual hangout spots Andy s Tiki ar has opened on ranson Landing, and it s an e tension of Springfield s Andy s owl Social. Andy s Tiki ar has a view of Lake Taneycomo, where guests
can order tiki drinks, eer and other drinks. e re eying the in iller, the ar s take on a painkiller. Open on. Sat. noon p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. p.m. $
BEFORE & AFTER BREWING
2940 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, beforeandafterbrewhouse. There are e cellent eers, espresso drinks and cocktails on the menu here, along with ero proof cocktails. As for what to eat, the snacks are stellar here. The loaded hot pret el is an indulgence, and they serve tasty oards (with all the accouterments that feature high end tinned fish as the centerpiece. Open eds. Thurs. p.m., ri. Sat. 1 a.m. p.m. $$ L D
BRICKTOWN BREWERY
2040 E. Independence St., 417-887-0100. This rewpu has its own eer plus local eer that can e hard to find elsewhere. ere the menu is vast and the food is tasty. e en oyed the urgers, and the apps menu included some super tasty options. This spot is also known for its cauliflower pi a crust that is super delish and perfect for any ody trying to avoid wheat f you want to watch a game, there are tons of T s. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. 11 p.m. ri., 11 a.m. midnight Sun., 11 a.m. 11 p.m. $$ WIFI L D
THE CELLAR
507 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-351-2824, thecellar.springfieldbrewingco.com. Created y the team ehind Springfield rewing Company (and located ust around the corner from it , The Cellar is a casual setting for small ites and creative cocktails. unch on popcorn garnished with fresh armesan and house made porto ello erky while you sip on a craft cocktail and en oy a rotation of live music. Open eds. Sun. 4 11 p.m. $ D
CELLAR+PLATE
2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-368-1739, cellarandplate.wine. At Cellar late you can get e ceptional wine and tasty food in a comforta le and inviting atmosphere. Customers love the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. on t miss the Cellar oard with meats, cheeses and fruits. And as you can pro a ly guess from the name, Cellar late has a great wine menu. Open Tues. eds. 4 p.m., Thurs. Sat. 4 1 p.m. $$ D
CLEAR LOUNGE
At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433. ust across the street from ranson Landing at the ilton ranson Convention Center is Clear Lounge, a great place to gra a cocktail with friends. This spot is home to tasty food, good music and fun drinks. ours vary open 1 p.m. at press time.D
COYOTE’S ADOBE CAFÉ & BAR
1742 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-889-7120; 807 N. Main St., Nixa, 417-725-6803, coyotes4wings. com. This spot has 4 flavors of chicken wings, from common ( u alo to une pected (tandoori spice . There are also apps, sammies and entrees. Open on. Thu., 1 a.m. midnight, kitchen until 11 p.m. ri., 11 a.m. 1 a.m., kitchen until 11 p.m. Sat., a.m. 1 a.m., kitchen until 11 p.m. Sun., a.m. 1 p.m., kitchen until p.m. $ BL D WIFI K
ERNIE BIGG’S DUELING PIANO BAR
505 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-239-3670, erniebiggs.com This piano ar serves up more than great tunes. The ranson Landing location has a small ut yummy menu of gourmet pu gru filled with apps, sandwiches and pi a. i as are thin crust and popular. Open on. Sat., p.m. 1 a.m. Sun., p.m. midnight. D WIFI M
GALLOWAY STATION
1281 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-9730. e love the a un Ca un urger it s ig, hearty and always delicious. lus, 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 classic. itchen open on. Thu., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 11 p.m $ L D K
HARRY’S COCKTAIL LOUNGE & BAR
at Big Cedar Lodge, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-339-5200, bigcedar.com/dining. This chic cocktail spot is located downstairs at the orman ouse on the ig Cedar Lodge property. t s a great place to stop y for a drink (they have e cellent cocktails and a great wine and whiskey selection , and they also o er a rotating menu of small plates and appeti ers. e loved the short ri sliders and the straw erry infused aper lane cocktail. Tuesday Thursday 1 p.m., riday and Saturday 11 p.m. $–$$ L D K
THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB
137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-425-5162, thegoldengirl.com. This rum ar on the southwest corner of ark Central S uare (with a great people watching patio space serves up handcrafted cocktails and a made from scratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. Try the Thai sticky wings for an unusual twist on a ar staple. e sure to try the tacos, ramen and artisan pi as. The pi a specials always come topped with creative ingredients for a serioulsy delicious and sharea le pie. As for drinks, everything on the menu is relia le well done. Our favorite r uava Lava. Open Tue. Sat., p.m. 1 a.m. $ L D WIFI
J.O.B. PUBLIC HOUSE
319 E. Walnut St., Springfield, job417.com. This spot is known for its e cellent our on selection and elevated ar food. Longtime favorites include the ull ide urger, the Codi rah falafel sandwich, and the pepperoni pi a alls. f you re in the mood for a cocktail, try the O ce Crush, made with ittenhouse ye, house made peach and lack tea syrup, lemon uice and peach puree. Open eds. Sun. 11 a.m. ar close. $$ LD
LINDBERG’S
TAVERN
318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-868-8900, lindbergsbar.com. orget a out asic ar food. This storied watering hole goes a ove and eyond with creative takes on hearty comfort food classics. The urgers are delicious, ut honestly everything we ve tried has een impressive. The specials are always eautifully creative and delish, and the Sunday runch is one of the est around. Open Tue. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 a.m. Sun., 1 p.m. midnight. $ L D M WIFI V
OUTBACK PUB
1924 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-7003, outbackbranson.com. This Australian inspired spot located along the strip in ranson oasts two ars, an outdoor party deck and e tensive eer list. There is live music most evenings. hat should you order to eat e recommend you try the cornmeal readed catfish. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 a.m. Sun., 11 a.m. midnight $ L D WIFI V
THE ROYAL
1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, 417-3513029, theroyalmusichall.com. This tiny and eautiful spot serves well crafted cocktails, ottled cocktails and finger foods like warm olives or rosemary and itters gla ed nuts. e sure to visit when there is live music the intimate setting makes for a great e perience. Open Tues. Thurs. 4 11 p.m. ri. Sat. 4 p.m. midnight. $
SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY
305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-832-8277, springfieldbrewingco.com. Try the fish and chips paired with the eers that are rewed on site. Also delicious are the urgers and the mac and cheese. Live music. Tue. Sun. kitchen open Sun., a.m. 1 p.m on. ri., 1 a.m. 1 p.m. Sat., a.m. 1 p.m. ar close daily at 11 p.m. $$ B L D WIFI K M V
SWEET BOY’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR
310 South Ave., Springfield, 417-719-4224, sweetboysbar.com. Come for pin all, a laid ack atmosphere and a small ut very well done cocktail list. or something more like dessert, try the ell oy, a fro en rish co ee with a at oy s ice cream sandwich. Open eds. Sat. 4 p.m. close Sun. noon close. $
VINO CELLARS WINE SHOP & LOUNGE
2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-773-1985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417773-1985, vcellars.com. Small plates, snacks and tapas make up the menu at this comforta le spot. Springfield open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. or later ri. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. or later ranson est open Tue. Thu., 1 a.m. 7 p.m. or later ri. Sat., 1 a.m. p.m. or later $ L D WIFI
W.F. CODY’S
3138 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-8083. The cheese urgers are a specialty at this restaurant, and they are enormous. on t miss the ham and cheese sandwiches, another customer favorite. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 a.m. Sun., 11 a.m. midnight kitchen open on. Thu., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 11 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. $ L D WIFI
speciali es in all things trout. The super fresh fish dishes are made with trout that are caught on the property. e love the trio appeti er, which comes with trout salad, smoked trout and a trout dip that is so cravea le Open daily a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K M ☎
VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY
260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-851-1768; rooftopvantage.com. This rooftop ar at otel andivort has a reathtaking view of downtown Springfield. The cocktails are refreshingly creative, and the menu of sharea les and snacks ring the concept of ar food up several notches. ake sure you try something from the super fresh, eautifully prepared raw ar. Open Tues. eds. 4 p.m. midnight, Thurs. Sat. 4 p.m. 1 a.m. $$
WHITE RIVER FISH HOUSE
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 seasonal smoked fish dip. ou can also find non fish dishes like urgers, fried chicken an ar ecue ri s on the menu too. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $$ L D K M
ST A
CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR, please see listing p. 107
FLAMESTEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 107
JIMM’SSTEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 108
LEVEL2STEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 108
OUTBACK STEAK & OYSTER BAR
1914 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-6306, outbackbranson.com. There are plenty of standout dishes at this Australian themed steakhouse and oyster ar. Out ack serves hand cut, aged steaks using Certified ereford eef raised locally. Open daily at 11 a.m. Closing time varies seasonally. $$ L D WIFI K
RED OAK STEAKHOUSE
Downstream Casino Resort, 69300 E. Nee Road, Quapaw, Oklahoma, 1-888-396-7876, downstreamcasino.com. ry aged prime steaks are served here. The sides are delicious too, with options like garlic potato puree and tru e creamed corn. e sure to try the charcuterie oard with all the usual goodies plus some house made am. Open Sun. Thu., p.m. ri. Sat., 1 p.m. $$ D ☎
RERICO BRAZILIAN GRILL
CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL, please see listing p. 107
ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT
Call for directions to the ranch in Rockbridge; 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com. This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that
3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-881-8882, rericogrill.com. Are you a fan of all things meaty Try 1 kinds of meat for dinner, all sliced ta leside. inner comes with eef soup and unlimited trips to the cold ar with things like fresh cheese, pasta salads and more. Open daily at 11 a.m. Closing time varies seasonally $ L D WIFI K M ☎
SALTGRASS STEAKHOUSE
801 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-3340325, saltgrass.com. This spot serves classic steakhouse fare, ut with a it of a Southwest cow oy twist. Try the center cut filet topped with saut ed mushrooms, or the loaded cheese fries appeti er. f you re in the mood for southern comfort food, they also have country fried steak. t s on ranson Landing, so you can walk o your dinner y shopping. Open Sun. Thu. 11 a.m. 1 p.m., ri. Sat. 11 a.m. 11 p.m. $$–$$$ LD ☎
WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE
1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com. Come to oplin s ilder s Steakhouse to find steaks in all si es and varieties, all of which are certified lack Angus eef and free of hormones and anti iotics. The restaurant s menu also has a variety of other items like seafood and chicken entrees. There are some great apps too, like the three onion soup a delightful take on rench onion soup. Open on. Thu., p.m. ri. Sat., 1 p.m. $$$ D ☎
T A OO S
BETH’S
BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM
1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8665533, bethsbakeshoppe.com. Try a chicken salad sandwich served on cinnamon raisin read. And we love the spinach salad served with warm acon vinaigrette, and the gigantic couscous salad loaded with fresh veggies and eta. Tea room is open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. akery open 1 a.m. p.m. $ L K M
MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM AND VINTAGE SUITCASE
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 uiche and soup of the day, plus great desserts. Open on. ri., 11 a.m. p.m. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. akery is open on. ri., 1 a.m. 4 p.m. Sat., 1 a.m. p.m. $ L WIFI M
SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM
107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331. The homemade desserts are to die for. e sure to order them uickly efore they run out like you might want to order them efore you order entrees on t miss the veggie sandwich, the straw erry soup or the chicken salad. Open Tue. Sat., 1 a.m. p.m. $ L K
THAI
EVERYDAY THAI
220 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-770-0147, myeverydaythai.com. This spot serves consistently delicious Thai dishes. Some of our favorites are the tom kha gai soup, the comforting yellow curry with chicken and the mango sticky rice dessert. Open Tues. ri. 11 a.m. p.m. and p.m. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m. Sun. 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD
RAMA THAI CAFÉ
1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-3204. This restaurant, located inside a charming old house on istoric alnut Street, features a menu full of delicious Thai tastes in a co y atmosphere with a shady patio out ack. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig into the entrees with an order of delicious curry noodles or a spicy curry option. Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m., 4 p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m., 4 p.m. Sun., noon p.m., 4 p.m. $–$$ LD K
SIMPLY THAI
2808 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-865-0101, simplythai.com. From the owner of Thai Express, Simply Thai offers a similar menu of Thai restaurant favorites—and some Springfield-style cashew chicken too. The Thai basil stir fry with tofu is our favorite dish, and the magic noodles never disappoint. Open daily 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m. $ LD
THAI THAI CUISINE
1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com. Thai Thai Cuisine o ers really great Thai food and a sweet sta . The panang curry is delicious, and it s served on a little ed of fresh spinach. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m., 4 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m. p.m., 4 p.m. $–$$ L D K
THAI EXPRESS
2113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-865-0101, 417thaiexpress.com. hen you visit this friendly spot, don t miss the agic oodle, mango curry chicken and volcano shrimp dishes. They are all tasty. The green curry is delicious, with a sauce so divine you might want to drink it. ( e admit e ve een tempted Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri., 11 a.m. p.m. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD
THAI PALACE
3250 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-771-5640, thaifoodpalace.com. The menu here is a mi of Thai food along with some Chinese and apanese dishes. Try the green curry, the fresh spring rolls, or the tom kha khai soup. Oh, and of course you have to pair it with a sweet Thai iced tea. Open on. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD
THAI SQUARE
307 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-771-5300, facebook.com/Thaisquare307. rom the folks who own ama Thai (and located ust around the corner from it , Thai S uare o ers an e cellent menu of Thai food favorites. Our favorite dish is the salmon choo chee, ut the spicy papaya salad and the traditional pad Thai are oth tied for a close second. Open daily 11 a.m. p.m. and 4 p.m. $$ LD
THAILAND
STATION
1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-350-1001, thailandstation.net. ind all your favorites (a variety of curries, stir fried noodle dishes and soups plus some surprises like crispy duck and stir fried pork elly. e re super e cited a out the salad options, like the som tum (papaya salad and the laa (ground chicken salad . hen it s in season, order the mango sticky rice dessert. Open on. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD
TONG’S THAI
RESTAURANT
3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-889-5280. This spot serves a menu packed with tasty Thai flavors, and the sarn lettuce wraps are a longtime customer favorite. The fried asa with your choice of one of Tong s yummy sauces is another fan fave we like to order it topped with asil sauce. on t forget a out the Thai rito, a dish that s uni ue to Tong s and features incredi le Thai flavors all wrapped up in a massive tortilla and topped with coconut chili sauce. ull ar. Open on. ri., 11 a.m. p.m. on. Sat., 1 p.m. $–$$ LD WIFI ☎
THE WHEELHOUSE
1845 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-430-0400, wheelhousefood.com. The pineapple fried rice is a fan favorite at this Thai e ican fusion spot, ut you really can t go wrong with anything on the menu. e always go for the kimchi falafel tacos. They are ursting with great tastes and pack some seriously spicy heat thanks to the homemade kimchi. Add the Thai chili sauce to whatever you order to up the spice. t s seriously hot and so delicious Open on. Thu., a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., a.m. 1 p.m. Sun, a.m. p.m. $ B LD V
T A S
BAMBU
1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-9881. The pho is a specialty here. ou can add spice, her s, alape os and sprouts to customi e it. (Our favorite se all of the her s, a couple of alape os and a s uirt of Sriracha. on t miss the refreshing un owls too The one made with lemongrass eef is a flavor om . Open on. Thu., 11 a.m. p.m. ri. Sat., 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD WIFI K ☎
HONG YEN
2926 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-351-3915, facebook.com/hongyenrestaurant. Come to ong en when you re in search of e cellent eef pho. The chicken pho is pretty good too eally, anything with noodles is worth a try, and the menu has several clear noodle soups and egg noodle soups in addition to the pho selection. Open Thu. Tues. 11 a.m. p.m. $ LD WIFI K ☎
PHO KIM
3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-883-9999, phokimspringfield.com. ere you can fill up on ietnamese staples like pho, spring rolls, a variety of ahn mi sandwiches and more. The chicken fried rice is e tra crispy, and the chicken pho is ust as tasty as the classic eef variety here. e love the spring rolls too. f you like heat, try the spicy eef noodle soup. Open on. and ed. Sat., 11 a.m. p.m. Sun., 11 a.m. 7 p.m. $ L D WIFI
PHO SAIGON
2640 E. 32nd St., Joplin, 417-627-9966. Come to this spot to indulge in fresh spring rolls, vermacelli noodles, and ig helpings of pho with lots of fresh veggies on the side. ou can also order o a tea in several flavors with toppings like tapioca pearls, co ee elly, egg pudding, popping o a and more. Open on. Sat. 11 a.m. p.m.. $ L D WIFI
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 TIMES for a CAUSE.
99X IS THE FINAL NIGHT OF OUTLANDISH EXCITEMENT AND REVELRY BEFORE THE MUSEUM CLOSES FOR RENOVATIONS!
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 28, 2024
5:30 PM - VIP TICKET HOLDERS' LOUNGE, FASHION SHOW AND TABLEAUX PREVIEW 7:00 PM - COCKTAIL TICKET PARTY AND TABLEAUX EXPERIENCE
VIP TICKETS: $250 EACH | COCKTAIL TICKETS: $100 EACH ALL TICKETS INCLUDE COMPLIMENTARY FOOD AND DRINK + DONATION TO THE MUSEUM.
PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS TODAY BEFORE 99X SELLS OUT! SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE - CONTACT KATE FRANCIS, MUSEUM AFFAIRS OFFICER AT 417-874-2865 OR KATE.FRANCIS@SPRINGFIELDMO.GOV
CURTAINS AND CORKS
This theatrical wine-tasting event presented by Great Southern Bank and 417 Magazine provided guests with tasting stations showcasing a variety of wines and cuisine.
Date April 23
Benefiting Organization Springfield Little Theatre
Location Lander’s Theatre
Attire Semi-formal
Sponsors
417 Magazine, 417 Cocktails, Aflac Katie Tonarely, Bruno’s Italian Restaurant, Cantin Mynarich, Great Southern Bank, Merch by Micha, Nixon Lindstrom Insurance, The Quilted Cow, Volt Credit Union
by Kristin Sharp
Tabitha Aleshire, Savannah Patterson
Trevor & Kim Crist
Ben Hernandez, Beth Domann
Claure Caubre, Paula Caubre, Connor Sanders
Dustin & Amanda Bartlett, Krissi Kilburn
Christine Temple, Madeline Liles
Rendy Smith, Kelly Rapp
Olive Cave, Evan Miller
Photos
SILVER STRANDS CELEBRATION
This year’s Silver Strands Celebration honored Dr. Kyle John in recognition of his passion for the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities.
Date April 12
Benefiting Organization Abilities First
Location Hickory Hills
Attire
Semi-formal
Sponsors
417 Magazine, Arc of the Ozarks, Associated Electric Cooperative, Brandon Rollwagen, Higginbotham, Kendra Scott, Michael & Nancy White, Parkcrest Dental Group, Rooney McBride & Smith LLC, SETWorks, Sho-Me Technologies, SWI Industrial Solutions, Valerie Gustin
Nicolette Marr, Chris Upton
Anne Tucker, Chip Wolf
Jesse & Brooke Rathbun
Laura Curtis, Julie Jones, Michele Fields
Mary Snelson, Maggie Rollwagen, Laura Curtis Kyler & Paige Bybee
Rosario Hedgpeth, Becky Pellham, Rachel Simons
Rachel Vaughan, Alissa Venable Photos by
Busy
PHOTO BY ANDREW MANN | @DAYFOURPHOTOGRAPHY
Photographer Andrew Mann specializes in astrophotography, along with nature and landscapes. Every year, he grows sunflowers in his front yard. One summer, he challenged himself to take photos every day with his macro lens (which helps capture tiny subjects, like the bee above). “I knew the picture I wanted to get,” he says. “Unfortunately you can’t train bees, and it took multiple days waiting for that right moment.”
