The Ozarks' top restaurants, dishes, drinks and food experiences... ... as chosen by our readers and editors
ON THE COVER: This lovely stack of sweets is from St. George’s Donuts. Read about the restaurant’s Best of 417 win on p. 89.
To the Coast
Discover our insider tips for a getaway to beautiful Monterey Bay, California.
Best of 41
Check out our read er-selected list of the best local eateries in the Ozarks.
PHOTO BY ARDEN DICKSON
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EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE POLLOCK ESTES editor@417mag.com
MANAGING EDITOR & BUSINESS EDITOR DORI GRINDER dori@417mag.com
RESEARCH EDITOR JO JOLLIFF jo@417mag.com
CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS EDITOR & STAFF WRITER JORDAN BLOMQUIST jblomquist@417mag.com
PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER KATY ST. CLAIR kstclair@417mag.com
EDITORIAL DESIGN INTERN HALLE JOHNSON
PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN ARDEN DICKSON
DIGITAL EDITOR JAMIE THOMAS jthomas@417mag.com
DIGITAL MANAGER ELIZABETH VANFOSSON evanfosson@417mag.com
CONTRIBUTORS JOSHUA BEECHER, TESSA COOPER, CHELSEA EULISS, SONY HOCKLANDER, HEATHER KANE KOHLER, MORGAN LEA PHOTOGRAPHY, NATHAN REIGHARD, KRISTIN SHARP, SUSAN ATTEBERRY SMITH, LEAH STIEFERMANN, DAN WILLIAMS
BUSINESS
PUBLISHER LOGAN AGUIRRE logan@417mag.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AND CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS MEGAN JOHNSONmjohnson@417mag.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF STRATEGY AND SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE AMMIE SCOTTMOTES ascott@417mag.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JAMI WIGHTMAN jami@417mag.com
GARY WHITAKER gary@417mag.com JOAN WHITAKER joan@417mag.com
417 MAGAZINE 2111 S. EASTGATE AVE., SPRINGFIELD, MO 65809 417-883-7417 • FAX 417-889-7417
Social Life
WIN BIG
Best of 417 Dining Bundle
417MAG.COM
Calling all foodies! Now that Best of 417 is here, you have the chance to enter to win prizes from the best food and drink spots in 417-land. For the chance to win bites and beverages from your favorites, or maybe some new favorites you’ve yet to discover, head to 417mag.com/win and enter before February 13.
CELEBRATE
Date Night Idea Roundup
INSTAGRAM + 417MAG.COM
It’s time to start preparing your plans for Valentine’s Day. If you’d wanted less stress,
it probably would have been better to start planning a little earlier, but if you are still seeking a spot for a romantic evening or a getaway with gal pals we can help. We’ve got a roundup of date night ideas from around 417-land over at 417mag.com/datenight. If you try one of the things we’ve got listed there, don’t forget to share your date night with us on social media at @417mag.
Super Bowl Watch Parties
417MAG.COM
The Super Bowl is on February 9. Whether you’re looking for local watching parties where you can view the big game or are hosting a get-together and need recipes, tips and ideas for where to grab dishes to serve
home, nd it all at 417mag. com/superbowl.
St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations
INSTAGRAM + 417MAG.COM
From parades to pet contests, pub crawls to cocktail classes, there’s plenty to do around the Ozarks. Check out 417mag. com/stpatricksday, and share your St. Patrick’s Day fun with us at @417mag.
SUPPORT
CSA Sign-Up Season
417MAG.COM
This is the season to sign up for a local CSA subscription— and to reap the bene ts of farm-grown goodness. Take a look at our quick guide at 417mag.com/CSA.
DON’T MISS A THING
Visit 417mag.com/ newsletters to sign up for the best local newsletters. Table Talk brings you don’tmiss food news every Tuesday, Datebook o ers the top weekend events every Thursday, and House of 417 is your monthly passport to inspired living.
SUBSCRIBE NOW
Our April edition features delicious dishes from around the world—all available at Ozarks restaurants. To get it delivered to your mailbox, head online to 417mag. com/subscribe.
WE LOVE 417-LAND
We are a proud member of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the Ozark Chamber of Commerce, the Branson Chamber and Convention & Visitors Bureau, the City and Regional Magazine Association, the Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce, the Home Builders Association of Springfield and the Republic Area Chamber of Commerce.
Editor’s Note
NO RELATION
I can’t tell you how many times my husband, Eli, and I have been asked, “Are you related to the Estes family in Nixa?”
Buying a car at a local car dealership: “So, do you guys know Kyle Estes?”
Getting our mortgage refinanced at a local bank: “Are you related to the Estes family? You know who I’m talking about, the ones in Christian County?”
Eli is from Poplar Bluff, and I’m from St. Louis. So for many years, we in fact did not know who the banker and the car salesman were talking about. We just didn’t know the history yet. We would always answer, “No, that’s not our family. We’re from out of town.”
It wasn’t until Cassidy Station at Estes Farms opened in December 2022 that I realized all these people over the years were asking us if we knew that family. And it turns out, their family history goes way, way back in the Ozarks. You can read a bit about Cassidy Station, its on-site mercantile, and its new shop in Springfield on p. 21.
What I love about Cassidy Station is that it has a uniquely Ozarks feel, with deep local roots and open doors that invite others to come in an experience something special. Those uniquely Ozarks vibes are exactly the kinds of things we’re looking for as we find stories to fill the pages of 417 . That’s true for our annual Best of 417 Awards too (which you can read about on p. 74). Our readers vote for the super-local restaurants they love the most, and our editorial team chooses Editors’ Picks for other local food moments and uniquely Ozarks dining experiences, dishes and people that we think deserve a shout-out.
Choosing them is such a fun process every year. The editorial team, the art team and our publisher get together (usually way too close to lunchtime) and talk about the things we’ve eaten in recent months that have made us swoon. By the end, we’re always so, so hungry. And so excited to share all the fun and tasty tidbits with you.
TALK TO US
Music to Our Ears
Thank you 417 Magazine and Jordan Blomquist for this inclusion. It is truly a dream that I didn’t even have, come true. Aware of and grateful for these Lawley Studio students and families.
MARK LAWLEY
Custom Publications Editor and Sta Writer Jordan Blomquist interviewed Mark Lawley for a story in the January 2025 edition of 417. He has a long history as a beloved music educator in the Ozarks. —Editor
Interns are the Best
I just want to say thank you so much for the amazing opportunity this semester. 417 was everything imagined it to be and more. It’s such an amazing work environment with so many amazing and talented people, and I am so lucky to have been a part of it. Thank you for being such an amazing mentor to me every step of the way.
HALLE JOHNSON
Halle Johnson was one of our super-talented interns, working in the Art Department with Creative Director Sarah Patton. If you know any college students in need of writing, reporting, digital, design or marketing internships, direct them to 417mag.com/apply for information.—Editor
To send us feedback or story ideas, email editor@417mag.com.
In the January 2025 edition of 417, we featured A Night at the Pantry in our People Pics section. It was a fundraiser for Least of These, Inc., a food pantry located in Ozark that serves Christian County. In the layout, we printed the wrong list of sponsors who supported this local event, and we misspelled the name of one of the table sponsors. We regret the errors.
Contributors
Be Mine
FEBRUARY IS SUCH A FITTING MONTH for our Best of 417 issue. February gray days are boosted a bit by Valentine’s Day smack dab in the middle of the month. Consider the Best of 417 a giant Valentine handpicked and created by us. The object of our a ection: you, our reader. And the gift we want you to experience again and again? Exploring the best in food, drink and culture throughout our region by those who know best. It’s a tag-team e ort where we survey you, our readers, to get your votes in multiple categories. And then our editorial team comes along and sprinkles in some fun categories
and insights that we just can’t keep to ourselves. We did the math, and if you tried every spot we highlighted in the Best of 417, you’d have plans for date nights, happy hours, friend meet-ups or lovely simple moments to yourself for 102 days of this year. From us to you, Happy Valentine’s Day, 417-land.
XOXO,
PUBLISHER LOGAN@417MAG.COM
If You Build It, They Will Eat It
Our cover shoot for this edition of 417 involved about two and half dozen donuts, a dowell rod and lots of sticky fingers. Stacking donuts to such great heights was no easy feat for the creative team, and it took several attempts to get it just right. The donuts came from an Ozarks favorite, St. George’s Donuts. It was the Editors’ Pick for the Best Way to Win Friends & Influence People. Read about them on p. 89. A er the photo shoot, the 417 sta cleaned up—and ate all the le overs.
PHOTOS BY TESSA COOPER, SARAH PATTON
BEHIND THE SCENES
A Warm Welcome
Cassidy Station combines family history, hospitality and a cozy atmosphere. Next month, a second location brings the same vibe to Spring eld.
BY SUSAN ATTEBERRY SMITH, WITH ADDITIONAL REPORTING
BY MAURA CURRAN
HIDDEN GEM
From e Field
AFTER SCHOOL WAS OUT FOR THE SUMMER when he was a boy, Kyle Estes couldn’t wait to visit his grandparents at their farm between Ozark and Nixa. Country life was familiar to him, growing up on his own family’s farm in Mt. Vernon, yet those summer days with Gene and Doris Estes were special. Kyle looked forward to helping with chores like taking care of the cattle and dogs raised on the acreage, rst homesteaded by the Estes family in 1872. “We worked stock dogs, border collie dogs were what [my grandfather] had, and did that together all the time,” he says.
Now, a few years after celebrating the farm’s 150th anniversary, this Ozark commercial real estate developer and his wife, local insurance agent Hollie Estes, have restored ve original buildings and opened about 20 acres of the Missouri Century Farm so visitors can make their own treasured memories there.
Cassidy Station at Estes Farms has a name harking back to the early Christian County town along the old Chadwick Flyer railway line. It opened in December 2022 with the Cassidy Mercantile Store, located in a carefully preserved 100-year-old house that was once his grandparents’ home. “We took this house down to the studs to make sure it was going to be here another 150 years,” Estes says.
Cassidy Station, owned by Kyle and Hollie Estes, is packed with genuine charm.
Inside the Mercantile, the shelves are lled with curated goods. They o er everything from fresh meat sourced from their own cattle to the Diva laundry detergent line from the Tyler Candle Company, one of their most popular items. Near the front door of the mercantile, there is a fully functioning kitchen where they display goods for sale, such as sauces, honey, tea and candied nuts. Also featured in the kitchen: Kyle and Hollie brew fresh co ee for their customers every day (a special Cassidy Station blend), and they like to partner with local bakeries to set out free desserts for the Mercantile’s visiting customers.
The success of the Mercantile has led Kyle and Hollie to make plans for a new Springeld shop that is soon to arrive. On March 1, Kyle and Hollie will have the grand opening for Galloway Mercantile, nestled in the Galloway neighborhood. This sister store allows them to expand Cassidy Station’s “warm welcome” to the Spring eld community. It will o er products similar to the Mercantile’s and is housed in a building with history for Kyle’s family. It was originally his great-great-grandfather’s general store.
grass- and grain-fed Angus Herefords that Kyle raises for the beef sold at the farm.
“My generation and generations before, lots of people grew up going to their grandparents’ farm, and that was so many good memories for lots of people,” Estes says. “As time goes on, that’s further and further removed because nobody’s grandparents have farms anymore. So this is a way for people to experience that and get those same kind of memories.”
“I sat out here in my farm truck, feeding cows, and dreamed this up.”
Inside the restored buildings, visitors nd family heirlooms and artifacts. A 19th-century ri e his family once brought from Kentucky hangs above a store doorway, historic photos of Estes’ ancestors hang on tin walls salvaged from the barn and railroad tracks repurposed as drying racks and chandelier beams trim ceilings.
“We’ve got a bunch of antiques that have been stuck around here for years, and I’ve just pulled them out to make them come back to life,” he says. Estes says they were fortunate that his family kept so much over the years.
Back on the Nixa-area farm, there is even more for visitors to see than the Mercantile. Cassidy Station has a full-service ower shop that is operated out of the back of the house in what used to be Estes’s grandfather’s workshop—and the workshop of his father before him.
In the years since opening Cassidy Station, Kyle and Hollie have also hosted regular events on the farm, like seasonal markets, rst farm-to-table dinners, yoga classes, crafting and oral workshops, Christmas ice skating and more. There’s even an event space in the old barn and a bride and groom venue. The black and white Belted Galloway cattle graze in the elds along with the
“Everything from the sales counters to our display tables, we’ve built out of either the old doors from the house or workshop tables,” he says. “Even the shelves on the wall were built out of reclaimed wood from the farm. We used hayloft oor for a lot of the accent walls We’ve used some of the original siding from the house.”
His family members who live close by often stop to see how everything is coming along at Cassidy Station. “I think everybody’s been kind of excited,” says Estes. “Everybody just likes to come see the project, cheer us on.”
And best of all, it’s just what Estes envisioned only a few years ago. “I sat out here in my farm truck, feeding cows, and dreamed this up,” he says.
Brewing a Business
OWNERS OF SPRING BRANCH KOMBUCHA CHRIS AND JESSICA OLLIS SHARE HOW THEY MADE THEIR START IN 417.
BY JO JOLLIFF
CHRIS OLLIS’S SUCCESS AS AN ENTREPRENEUR certainlyhad a nontraditional beginning: It started in his basement. “I was brewing beer at home in the basement, and it was fun to make and put into kegs,” Ollis says. “But I mean, that’s a lot of beer, especially for home usage, and I was kind of thinking it wasn’t the best health option for me.” Around that time, he came across a book about how to brew kombucha. It turned out that there were a lot of similarities in equipment. So Ollis brewed his rst batch of kombucha, and it turned out that he really liked the product. He says it was fun to make, and he didn’t have to feel guilty about drinking it.
Interested in the health bene ts of kombucha, Ollis continued to pursue learning more about how to make it himself, and he started dispensing it out of kegs. However, Ollis says that his wife, Jessica, was still a little dubious about the product at that point. The two bottled some of their new kombucha up, and she took it to her friends to try. “They o ered to start buying it from her immediately,”
“We got a really great start because there was a pent-up need and really solid interest in southwest Missouri having a non-alcoholic beverage producer, so that’s the genesis for how we got started.”
says Ollis. “So that was like, ‘Maybe we’ve got something here that people might be interested in.’ And so we started down the rabbit hole relatively quickly.”
After learning more about Missouri’s laws for commercial soft drink brewing operations, Ollis moved the operation out of the basement, buying and remodeling a building in 2017. A reporter saw the building permits and took interest in covering their product. Soon after, the Ollises got a phone call from Wil Fischer Distributing. “It was crazy because it’s almost unheard of for a small business to be able to work with a distributor of the caliber of Wil Fischer at any stage of their business, much less before they actually have doors on the building,” Ollis says.
They also quickly began receiving interest from distributors like MaMa Jean’s Natural Market. “We got a really great start because there was a pent-up need and really solid interest in southwest Missouri having a non-alcoholic beverage producer, so that’s the genesis for how we got started,” he says. “The plan was: Let’s build this thing, and we’ll experiment a little bit. But we started having interest before we were even done with the building. So we quickly got a plan in place and started developing di erent avors.”
All throughout the creation of the business, Ollis continued working full-time as an investment manager for US Bank until 2022. “We’ve always had a purposeful intent for our business,” he says. “It started o as more of a side business initially but the idea was to scale it into something bigger.”
Spring Branch Kombucha products can be purchased online at springbranchkombucha.com or at a local partner, whether it’s a grocer like Nature’s Wonder, a co ee shop like Echelon Co ee or a brewery like Tie & Timber Beer Co. or 4 by 4 Brewing Company.
These community partnerships helped see them through the more di cult parts of their journey, like navigating the supply problems of COVID-19 and uctuation in prices and products in the aftermath. “We saw a very large amount of change in a short period of time,” Ollis says. “The number one thing I would say to anyone out there is if you’re coming up against headwinds, there are de nitely still ways to pivot.”
PHOTO
SHOW ME
Chris and Jessica Ollis launched their kombucha business from their basement.
From e Field
HOT TICKET / BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
Listen Up
417-land has no shortage of local talent, including many people making their voices heard through podcasting. Here are six local podcasts we’re loving right now.
For the Leader
Never Stop Getting Better
John Perry, host of Never Stop Getting Better and head football coach at Nixa High School, is a true leader both on and o the eld. His podcast explores themes of personal growth, resilience and the pursuit of excellence, featuring tips, stories and advice from locals on how to keep progressing.
“Having a voice through the Never Stop Getting Better podcast is an incredible privilege,” Perry says. “It’s a platform where I can connect with remarkable people and share stories of growth, leadership and perseverance in an attempt to add value to others in our great community.”
For the Entrepreneur
Simply Authentic Podcast
Hosts Angie Mullings and Tonya Mur n, real estate brokers/owners in Spring eld, aim to empower business leaders both personally and professionally through Simply
Authentic Podcast. In each episode, they dive into personal success stories, discuss challenging topics and o er inspiration to help listeners pursue their passions, often with local guests.
For the DIYer
A Beautiful Mess Podcast
Hosted by sisters Elsie Larson and Emma Chapman, A Beautiful Mess Podcast explores DIY projects, family life, business ownership and everyday sisterly banter. Each episode is paired with show notes and a transcript on their blog, abeautifulmess.com, which the sisters have transformed into a widely popular platform.
For the Young Professional
Our Non-Toxic Podcast
Hannah McClelland Ruder, host of Our Non-Toxic Pod-
cast, is like a big sister to her listeners. She shares personal experiences, invites guests to share their stories and brings a joyful, fun spirit to her podcast, which focuses on lifestyle, mental health, entrepreneurship and the overall human experience. Ruder recently celebrated 100 episodes and two years of the podcast, re ecting on its impact. “Personally, podcasting has helped me become more open and try not to su er in silence—there’s strength in showing vulnerability,” she says.
For the True Crime Junkie
Ozarks True Crime
Writer Anne Roderique-Jones grew up in Spring eld and moved to New York City in 2007. As a freelance writer and true crime fan, she decided to start her a podcast based on stories near her hometown. The rst season of Ozarks True Crime covered the story of the Spring eld Three. “It was so compelling and heartbreaking,” Roderique-Jones says. “I thought a podcast might be a good way for a new audience to hear the story of the Spring eld Three. A podcast would reach a younger generation and certainly a wider audience.” The second season focused on the Feeney family murders, and the most recent season explored the Sandra Hemme story. When she launched the podcast, Roderique-Jones had a goal of 100 downloads. “I think right now we’re at just under 4 million,” she says. “We have listeners from all over the world.”
For the 20-Something
Love Letters from Lakyn
OTHER LOCAL PODCASTS
Delete This History with Brea Brown and Cara Burch
Something Sinister with Alexa Orth
Keeping Up with Kash with Morgan Pagel
Savor the Ozarks with Joy Robertson
Lakyn Olmsted conveys a ray of sunshine through her podcast, Love Letters from Lakyn. While she covers a variety of refreshing topics, the focus is generally centered around being a woman in her 20s— growing up while still doing things that make her feel young. She touches on navigating life, books, gaming, pop music and mental health awareness. “I kind of imagine my followers and I at a giant sleepover just chatting about life while crafting or sipping tea,” she says.
Bill Graves researched his options before choosing Innovative Dental Implant Center for his smile transformation. He and his wife, SueAnn, were both unhappy with their smiles, but the problems went even further. Bill was struggling to sleep due to pain in his mouth and other parts of his body. He couldn’t enjoy the foods he loved. After reading the 5-star reviews praising Innovative Dental Implant Center’s state-of-the-art facility and worldclass team, he decided to change his life forever. His wife, SueAnn, was struggling with her denture and decided she was ready to smile again. They are both thrilled with their decision. Bill is sleeping and eating better, and they are both smiling bigger than ever!
Innovative Implant Smiles are helping patients all over the country regain con dence and live the life of their dreams. Dr. Grant Olson’s innovative approach to full mouth implant dentistry changed Bill’s and SueAnn’s lives, and they are excited to share their story with others in the hopes it will help someone else looking to smile again.
The next Sunday Supper Club at Good Spirits is February 23. Read more on p. 33.
February Calendar
The best local events happening this month.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
MATT MATHEWS: BOUJEE ON A BUDGET TOUR
February 1
Matt Mathews has become a stand-up rising star after gaining notoriety on social media for his hilarious posts and 4.8 million TikTok followers. This is his second tour, and the rst sold out 100 days at venues across the country.
8 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld; gillioztheatre.com
LAKE LIFE EXPO
Through February 2
It’s never too early to start planning all your on-the-lake fun for next summer. The annual Lake Life Expo lets you browse boats, lake toys, outdoor living items, real estate and lake house décor vendors for inspiration for your summer. Times vary by day; Spring eld Expo Center, 635 E. Saint Louis St., Spring eld; lakelifeexpo.com
TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE JUDY
February 4
Spring eld Little Theatre holds a handful of trivia night events each year, all of them bene ting the Spring eld Little Theatre Education Department.
$20 individual, $120 team of eight; 6:30 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. trivia; The Judith Enyeart Reynolds School of the Performing Arts, 237 Florence Avenue, Spring eld; spring eldlittletheatre.org
From e Field Calendar
PARENTAL GUIDANCE SUGGESTED
February 6–9
This play by Kelle Long is part of Spring eld Little Theatre’s New Works Series that shares original work by local playwrights. It’s directed by Beth Domann and tells the story of parents whose job is to watch movies and choose their ratings.
$15; showtimes vary by date; The Studio Theatre, The Judith Enyeart Reynolds School of the Performing Arts, Spring eld; spring eldlittletheatre.org
BRANSON HOME SHOW
February 7–9
Browse the booths of local vendors, each o ering home-improvement services and products. It’s the perfect place to nd inspo
Craft It
and professionals for everything on your honey-do list.
$9; Fri. 2–7 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.–3 p.m.; Chateau on the Lake, Branson; bransonhomeshow.com
AND THE ANGELS SING
February 8
This classical performance by Spring eld Symphony Orchestra features Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony. Drury University, Missouri State University and Evangel University choir groups join the symphony.
$51–70; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Spring eld; springeldmosymphony.org
INVINCIBLE: A GLORIOUS TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON
February 14
Michael Jackson fans, this one’s for you. See examples of Jackson’s career highlights and top hits, with dance choreographed by Jackson collaborator Lavelle Smith Jr.
$25–35; 7 p.m.; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS
February 14–March 2
This musical comedy tells the story of a Texas brothel, the town around it and a do-gooder who tries to bring it down.
$35; showtimes vary by date; The Historic Fox Theatre, Spring eld; spring eldcontemporarytheatre.org
BEER WINE CHEESE AND CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL
HORSEBACK RIDING + WINERY
When the February doldrums hit hard, stimulate your mind by taking up a new crafty hobby. There are plenty of local art and craft classes where you can get started.
To add some warmth to your home, make something you can snuggle up into. Most months (including on February 2), AR Workshop offers chunky knit blanket workshops where you learn to use super-fat yarn to make something super-cozy. Find details at arworkshop.com/ springfield.
If you’d rather express yourself by picking up a paintbrush, check out the workshops offered at Splatter Art Studio. On February 6, there’s a Loose Abstract Painting workshop with artist Ursula Wollenberg. Find details at splatterartstudio.com.
And for something you can do with your besties, Creava Studio is hosting a Galentine’s Day Pottery workshop on February 15. There you’ll learn to create ceramic jewelry, making three pieces that you can take home with you after the studio fires and glazes them. Find details at creavastudio.com.
February 8
It’s all about tasting, shopping and learning at this event for ages 21 and older. There are educational seminars, plus a chance to vote for the People’s Choice Awards. You can also purchase a ticket that includes the VIP Pairings Dinner the night before (February 7) for a four-course meal. $30–75; noon–4 p.m.; Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant Ave., Spring eld; ozarkempirefair.com
GALENTINE’S DAY EVENT
February 8
Make hand-made candy bars, learn to put together a charcuterie board, and create a unique charcuterie board through wood-burning.
$75; 6–9 p.m.; Big Cedar Lodge, 190 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale; bigcedar.com
BARN DANCE
February 14
Shake a leg with your sweetie at Sycamore Creek Family Ranch’s monthly Barn Dance event. The event includes two-stepping, line dancing and more—and it’s perfect for seasoned dancers and beginners alike. $16 adults, $9 kids; 7 p.m.; Sycamore Creek Family Ranch, 2657 Sunset Inn Road, Branson; sycamorecreekfamilyranch.com
February 15
Join the 37 North crew on a scenic guided trail ride. After the ride, guests visit Bear Creek Winery to sample wine.
$119; 10:30 a.m.–3:15 p.m.; tours leave from Farmers Park, 2144 E. Republic Road, Spring eld; 37northexpeditions.com
WAITRESS
Through February 16
This production by Spring eld Little Theatre features music by Sara Bareilles and is based on the movie of the same name. It tells the story of a pie-maker with big dreams. Spring eld Little Theatre describes the show as “the perfect recipe of love, resilience and delicious music.”
$17–40; showtimes vary by date; Landers Theater, 311 E. Walnut St., Spring eld; spring eldlittletheatre.org
GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA
February 18
This famous 17-member big band has been touring since 1956 and brings swing music to the Gillioz Theatre. You’ll get to hear classic big band hits like “Chattanooga Choo Choo” and more.
$49.50–69.50; 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld; gillioztheatre.com
VINTAGE & VIRTUOSO
February 20
It’s all about South America at this delicious event supporting the Spring eld Symphony Orchestra Endowment. You’ll taste food from Peru, Brazil, Argentina and Chile during a multi-course meal that’s paired with South American wines. This event is for ages 21 and older.
$250; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Spring eld; spring eldmosymphony.org
CELEBRATION OF TASTES
February 20–23
It’s the 31st year for this delicious winter food-and-wine celebration at Big Cedar Lodge. There are numerous events you can sign up for, like wine receptions, wine-centric events featuring live music, multicourse wine pairing dinners, wine-pairing lessons and more. You can even get active with the yoga and wine event.
Prices, times and locations at Big Cedar Lodge vary by event; see all events online at bigcedar.com/events/celebration-of-tastes.
LAWN & GARDEN SHOW
February 21–23
At this event, nd vendors, shop for supplies, and watch educational presentations. More than 100 vendors are exhibiting at the event, and you can shop for things like seeds, plants, equipment and more.
$5, free for 6 and younger; 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant Ave., Spring eld; ozarkempirefair.com
RENT
February 21–March 2
Missouri State University’s theatre students perform Broadway favorite, Rent. The play (which has won several Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama) follows young struggling artists in New York City navigating life’s struggles.
$25; showtimes vary by date; Craig Hall Balcony Theatre, Missouri State University, 1147 Grand St., Spring eld; theatreanddance.missouristate.edu
VIP Membership
Along with our top selection of spray tanning and tanning bed options, we offer a wide variety of Wellness Spa services, including Red Light Therapy and Hydromassage. Combine your tanning with any or all of our services to maximize your glow-getting journey with us.
Six Locally Owned Locations in Springfield, Ozark and Nixa suntancity.com
From e Field Calendar
Brittany Perry
HOT WINTER FUN BIG SHOW
February 22
Several Branson acts come together every winter for one big production in the middle of Branson’s o -season.
3 p.m.; Hughes Brothers Theatre, 3425 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson; hughesentertainmentinc.com
JERRY SEINFELD LIVE
February 22
Comedian Jerry Seinfeld has been making audiences laugh since his stand-up debut in 1976. Since then he’s become known not just for stand-up but also for his long-running 1990s series Seinfeld.
$65 and up; 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Spring eld; hammonshall.com
PAUL CAUTHEN BLACK ON BLACK TOUR
February 22
See this East Texas singer-songwriter hit the stage this month. He started out as part of an indie folk group called Sons of Fathers before going solo.
$30–69.50; 7 p.m. doors, 8 p.m. show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld; gillioztheatre.com
Run It O
If you have bored kids who need to work o some energy this month, head to one of these indoor locations where they can get the wiggles out without having to face the cold February temperatures.
Perfect for: Kids who have been using your living room furniture for parkour practice
What you’ll find: An indoor obstacle course with fun elements like a warped wall and a huge amount of things to climb on. Kids can sign up for recurring classes, join the competitive team or just pop in for open gym time.
Fritz’s Adventure fritzsadventure.com
Perfect for: Kids who just want to explore
What you’ll find: This Branson spot features a ropes course, a city-themed rock climbing wall, a 45-foot zipline and quirky stu all over that kids can explore (like an airplane suspended from the ceiling, a water tower, shipping containers, a maze of tunnels under the floor and more).
Zenith Climbing zenithclimbing.com
SERTOMA CHILI COOKOFF
February 22
This annual fundraiser is a day packed with live music and tons of samples of homemade chili. Guests get to vote for their favorites. There’s even a Texas Hold’em tournament. Proceeds support the Boys and Girls Clubs of Spring eld. $20 in advance, $25 at the door; 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; Spring eld Exposition Center, 635 E. Saint Louis St., Spring eld; sertomachilicooko .com
LOVE AND THEFT
February 23
See country music duo Stephen Barker Liles and Eric Gunderson perform favorites like their hit single “Runaway.” You can also purchase VIP-level tickets to get access to a fan meet-and-greet.
Perfect for: Kids with no fear of heights—or a desire to overcome one! What you’ll find: Beginners can start with the auto-belay ropes at this indoor rock climbing gym in Springfield. Or you can take a quick belaying lesson and help them out on the other walls. There are day passes available and even kids’ climbing classes and teams they can join.
Jump Mania
jumpmaniaspringfield.com
Perfect for: The younger kids in your crew who need a so place to land What you’ll find: This Springfield spot is filled with huge inflatables that kids can climb on, jump on and explore— which is great if your kids aren’t quite old enough to let loose in the spots mentioned above. There are bounce houses, tall slides and more.
$25–50; 7 p.m.; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 514 Nicholas Road, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
SUNDAY SUPPER CLUB
February 23
This monthly event at the Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters always features a multicourse meal using seasonal ingredients, excellent cocktails and an atmosphere that’s an absolute vibe.
$60; 4 p.m. cocktail hour, 5 p.m. dinner; Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters, 1424 E. Cherry St., Suite A; Spring eld; goodspirits andco.com/events
TWELFTH NIGHT
February 26–March 4
See the Drury University theatre students perform William Shakespeare’s comedy Twelfth Night, featuring a shipwreck, separated siblings and a love triangle.
$14; showtimes vary by date; Wilhoit Theatre, Drury University, at the corner of Drury Lane and Central Street, Spring eld; drury.edu/theatre
REED TIMMER
February 28
If you’re fascinated by weather, you’ll love this event featuring extreme meteorologist and tornado chaser Reed Timmer. You can also purchase VIP-level tickets to get access to a fan meet-and-greet.
$20–50; 7 p.m.; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 514 Nicholas Road, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
DISNEY’S FROZEN JR.
February 28–March 9
Take the kiddos to see their favorite characters (Anna, Elsa and the whole crew) singing those familiar songs on stage. This junior production of Frozen is based o the Broadway musical and is part of Spring eld Little Theatre’s Youth Entertainment Series.
$15; showtimes vary by date; The Reynolds Auditorium, The Judith Enyeart Reynolds School of the Performing Arts, Spring eld; spring eldlittletheatre.org
ENCORE
PROFILES
Life is good. As we move through life’s seasons, there will be changes. But there are local professionals to help guide us through those changes so that we can thrive. Stay comfortable. Stay active. Stay surrounded with love and friends and family and health. We’ll help guide the way for aging well.
Deciding on senior care for yourself or a loved one can feel overwhelming. Citizens Memorial offers a quick 4-5 minute survey to help you explore your options and nd the best t for your care needs. Take the survey at https://cmhbolivar.info/SeniorLiving.
Citizens Memorial provides care at every stage of life. From independent living to residential care to skilled nursing facilities, they offer a full range of services to meet diverse needs. Their specialized memory care units* are designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, ensuring safety and comfort.
For those needing rehabilitation, their inpatient services include physical, occupational, and speech therapies to support recovery and well-being. With personalized attention and a commitment to quality care, Citizens Memorial supports families every step of the way.
Take the survey today, and call to schedule a guided tour of one of their facilities located in Ash Grove, Bolivar, Buffalo, El Dorado Springs and Stockton, Missouri. Citizens Memorial is here to help you navigate the journey with compassion and expertise.
NEXTGEN STORAGE BY TLC PROPERTIES
Storage is about more than stuff. Storage is about preserving memories, mementos and family heirlooms that pass from generation to generation. From day one, NextGen has reinvented how people think about storage. Located in Spring eld and Joplin, Missouri, the new venture by TLC Properties combines innovative technology with customer-focused design, rede ning the storage experience to make it the smartest, safest and most convenient storage option in southwest Missouri.
NextGen Storage understands the importance of safeguarding history and being good stewards of your possessions and valuables. “NextGen Storage is an organic evolution of TLC Properties,” says owner Dan Coryell. “In the same way TLC Properties values customer service and resident care, NextGen will extend that commitment to safeguarding existing and new customers’ possessions. It’s more than storage—it’s peace of mind.”
How does NextGen Storage provide peace of mind and set itself apart from the rest? NextGen’s comprehensive approach will show the community that you can have security, convenience, temperature control and on-demand access all in one place. Setting a new benchmark for storage encourages the public to reimagine the possibilities for caring for their valuables. Welcome to the next generation of storage.
Serotonin Centers Spring eld is a destination for health, wellness and anti-aging solutions. Offering a holistic approach, Serotonin provides an extensive range of services, including medical weight loss, hormone optimization, red light therapy, body sculpting with EMSCULPT neo, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, IV infusions, Botox, dermal llers, Hydrafacials, microneedling with PRP or exosomes and medical-grade skincare.
Members bene t from biweekly health coaching sessions; monthly InBody scans to track visceral fat, skeletal muscle mass and body fat percentage; and 24/7 access to their health coach through a user-friendly app. Serotonin Centers conducts a comprehensive blood panel and sits down with clients to discuss both their lab results and how they are feeling to develop the best plan of action for them.
The experienced team includes a general manager/nurse injector with 11 years of nursing expertise, a nurse practitioner with seven years of practice and a four-time Ms. Olympia-winning health coach along with a medical director with 40-plus years of experience in medicine. They emphasize steady, personalized care, building relationships that inspire con dence and loyalty.
PHOTOS BY KATY ST. CLAIR
HUB HEARING
417-397-3200 | HUBHEARING.COM 2731 E. BATTLEFIELD RD., SPRINGFIELD
Hub Hearing provides comprehensive hearing health services, including diagnostic testing, aural rehabilitation, hearing aid programming and tting, hearing conservation education, tinnitus treatment and individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s needs. With nearly a decade of experience, their team prioritizes education, clinical excellence and transparent communication. They are dedicated to helping individuals stay connected with their friends, family and community by addressing hearing loss early, fostering long-term patient relationships and offering conciergestyle service. Hub Hearing offers free diagnostic services and aims to empower its patients with clearer conversations and more ful lling daily experiences.
Dr. Beth Gidman, AuD, CCC-A, FAAA
TheLongWay
CURRENTS
Icy Waters, Big Fish
HEAD TO THE OZARKS’ RIVERS AND LAKES TO FISH FOR TROUT AND BASS, WHETHER YOU’RE A SEASONED PRO OR NEED A LITTLE GUIDANCE.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
e Long Way
ALTHOUGH YOU might think of 417-land’s waterways as strictly summertime destinations, some of our local rivers can be ideal places for anglers to spend a brisk and chilly winter’s day outside. That’s because shing is an all-year activity, and there are some good reasons to make sure you give wintertime shing a try.
First, many of our rivers are spring-fed, which means water levels are going to be good year-round. Near the springs and below dams are both great places to try your luck.
Hot tips: Be sure to check the shing season guidelines before you go out (for example, until next month, trout shing is catch-and-release, so you can’t take the sh home to cook). And make sure you get a shing license too, which you can get at places that sell shing equipment,
like Bass Pro Shops. Also, make sure you have all your gear in order, including waterproof shoes, waders and anything else you need to ensure you stay warm and dry.
If you are longing to catch a sh but aren’t already a shing hobbyist, you might want to spend a day with a shing guide who can show you the ropes and take you to locations where you’re sure to snag something. Big Cedar Lodge (bigcedar.com) o ers professional shing guide outings to search for bass on Table Rock Lake or trout on Lake Taneycomo. They provide the guide, boat, bait and equipment, so all you have to do is show up. Guided trips leave from both Bent Hook Marina and Long Creek Marina.
Big Cedar Lodge isn’t the only nearby resort where shing is king, though. Rockbridge Rainbow Trout and Game Ranch (rockbridgemo.com) has a hatchery that’s known for keeping Spring
Creek stocked with trout for y shing— and the option to hire a guide means you can learn about casting, knot tying and more while you’re there. You can easily spend the whole weekend there, eating at the on-site restaurant (which serves trout in myriad ways) and grabbing drinks at the Grist Mill bar.
BY JOSHUA
Head to Bennett Spring for catch-andrelease trout fishing.
Farther south and just over the Missouri-Arkansas border, Gaston’s White River Resort (gastons.com) is another option. It o ers half- and full-day guided shing trips, as well as a one-day Fly Fishing School that includes both classroom time and on-the-water experiences. For a little extra, you can add a shore lunch to your guided shing trip, and your guide will cook you a meal on the gravel bar. There’s a restaurant on-site here too, and this unique spot even has an airstrip where private jets can zoom in carrying anglers for a weekend of shing.
Ozarks best local shing spots
We rounded up a few suggestions for places to go when you get the itch to drop a line (or y sh!) this month.
Table Rock Lake
For: smallmouth bass
Roaring River State Park
For: brown trout and rainbow trout
North Fork of the White River
For: brown trout
Eleven Point River
For: rainbow trout
Bennett Spring State Park
For: rainbow trout
Lake Taneycomo
For: brown trout and rainbow trout
Rockbridge Trout and Game Ranch
For: rainbow trout and guided fishing trips
Gaston’s White River Resort
For: brown trout, rainbow trout and guided fishing trips
Big Cedar Lodge
For: rainbow trout, bass and guided fishing trips
sense of community go such a long way towards improving mental health.”
Throughout Spring eld, there are several venues that promote recreational sports leagues for adults. With no experience required, the only thing that is required is good sportsmanship. With winter upon us, this could be the perfect hobby to build a new sense of friendship and healthy competition during the grayest time of the year.
A Little Friendly Competition
CHECK OUT SPRINGFIELD’S LOCAL ADULT INDOOR SPORTS OPTIONS; THE PERFECT WAY TO SPEND THE WINTER SEASON.
EBY MAURA CURRAN GAME TIME
VER THINK BACK TO THE good old days of being on a sports team? Adrenaline pumping as you went for the winning goal, or nailed the volleyball right in that sweet spot where there’s no chance of return. Maybe you were on a streak of knocking it out of the ball park, or got this much closer to a hole-in-one. Or maybe you watched from the sidelines, losing your voice from bellowing out to your teammates, rooting them on like your life depends on it. Whatever your role was on the eld, the court or the sidelines, there’s always one important thing to gain from sports leagues: camara-
derie. So, don’t hang up your uniform just yet. You’re never too old to enjoy a little friendly competition.
Chris Martin, general manager of Betty and Bobby Allison Sports Town, has seen how bene cial adult sports leagues can be. He notes just a small aspect of it: the health bene ts. Martin says that adult sports not only provide a good opportunity for exercise, but they also promote exibility and mobility, and o er a good alternative for staying active during winter. Martin also highlights the role that adult sports play in mental health. “They can relieve stress, and improve mood and outlook,” he says. “The social bene ts and
Volleyball Beach Ozark has a full tournament calendar for February and March. They o er open play every Friday from 5–10 p.m., and on Sundays from 1–6 p.m. They also have 4v4 leagues from 6–8 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, along with 6v6 leagues from 6–8 p.m. on Wednesdays. See volleyballbeachozark.com for league availability and for registration details if you’re interested.
Additionally, Betty and Bobby Allison Sports Town o ers open gyms year-round for basketball, soccer and volleyball. They are open to both youth and adults every Friday from noon–4 p.m. More details can be found at allisonsportstown.com.
If you’re looking for some more options, Spring eld-Greene County Park Board has other sports leagues going on, such as archery, pickleball, volleyball and softball. They o er their Adult Archery Club sessions year-round on Tuesdays from 3–7 p.m., ages 21 years and up. An annual USA Archery adult or family membership is required for $30, along with an $8 fee per session. Their adult volleyball league runs February 24 to April 14; see parkboard. org/volleyball for more information and to register. Additionally, one of their most popular leagues right now is pickleball. They provide open play pickleball at several locations year-round. See parkboard. org/pickleball to view times, dates and pricing for each of the four venues: Chester eld Family Center, Dan Kinney Family Center, Doling Family Center and O’Reilly-Te t Gymnasium.
Documentary Day Trip
Less than three hours north of Spring eld, the True/False Film Festival brings the best in new documentary lmmaking to Columbia, Missouri. And it all starts this month.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
EVERY YEAR IN COLUMBIA, FILMMAKERS and lm lovers come together for a weekend-long non ction lm festival that has gained quite a reputation since its inception in 2004. It has become a must-attend event for lm bu s, who travel from near and far to see stellar new works of documentary lmmak-
EN ROUTE
ing. But you don’t have to be a documentary fanatic to enjoy this event. Even if you only dabble, there’s probably a lm or two that will spark your interest at this vibrant festival.
Plan a getaway to Columbia for the True/False Film Festival and hit up these local spots.
This year’s True/False Film Festival takes places February 27 to March 2. The nal list of lms wasn’t available yet at press time, but you can check their site (truefalse.org) before you visit to see what’s playing. Past years’ schedules have included dozens of lms covering a wide array of topics (from heartwarming to heart-wrenching, and always thought-provoking)— including “happiness agents” in Bhutan who go door-todoor to assess the community’s happiness, a lmmaker’s search for his own family story using his photographer mother’s archives, a Danish island community of 27 people ghting for normalcy amid climate change and so much more.
Alongside the lm screenings is a full schedule of related festival events, like par-
ties, art installations, concerts, lmmaker Q&As and more.
Where To Stay
If you want to be close to all the action, stay in downtown Columbia. The Tiger Hotel is a classic, and anybody who went to college at Mizzou will recognize the
giant neon “Tiger” sign on the roof of this boutique hotel (thetigerhotel.com)—it’s a local landmark. A newer option is The Broadway (thebroadwaycolumbia.com), a Doubletree hotel with easy access to downtown sites.
Where To Eat
No trip to Columbia is complete without visiting one of the been-there-forever classics, like getting a pie at Shakespeare’s Pizza (shakespeares.com), treating yourself to a scoop at Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream (@sparkyshomemade on socials), or indulging in a delightfully greasy burger at Booches Billiard Hall (booches1884.com). For a light but satisfying lunch, we recommend Nourish Café + Market (nourishcafemarket.com), where you can get bowls and salads packed with seasonal organic vegetables. The Broadway Bowl is especially yummy. All of the spots mentioned here are located downtown near True/False festivities.
At Home
What happens when a love for the East Coast Stolle couple it’s a match made in heaven. mixes with a love of the Ozark Mountains? For the
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS
FEELS LIKE HOME
At Home
IN LIFE, YOU EITHER have style or you don’t. And when building a house, you either have a vision or you get lost along the way. Luckily, high school sweethearts Debbie and Bruce Stolle have enough style and vision to last them several lifetimes, and this fact is obvious when you set foot on their property in Saddlebrooke. “We had a long checklist of things we wanted in this home,” says Debbie. “Like a screened-in porch, all the trim work and the rotunda. We really designed the whole inside and tried to incorporate all our favorite things.” The Stolles especially love how the rotunda turned out. They worked with Brett Godfrey of Built by Brett Custom Homes on the space that features elegant curves and a swirling staircase. Driving up on their Hamptons-style exterior is like a breath of fresh air. The
Stolles have a deep love for the ocean and the coast, but they were used to the log homes and French country styles of the Midwest. “We just thought, why not a Cape Cod–style home in the Ozarks?” says Debbie. “I want to live like I’m on vacation every day.”
With three grown children and seven grandchildren, the Stolles are used to having a housefull. “All summer we are fully booked!” Debbie says. Saying Debbie is the “hostess with the mostest” is an understatement. She has meticulously planned spaces for guests to feel at home and cozy, yet she wanted her home to still feel casual and not too fussy.
“I want people to feel like they can come and curl up on the sofa,” she says. The main living area of the home is open but still feels intimate. It features two kitchen islands, so the Stolles and their guests can all cook together—a big kitchen that doubles as a gathering space.
In many of the home’s gathering spaces, the Stolles opted for a color palette of bright whites and cool grays, but in other spaces you can see Debbie’s love for color at play. She says she likes a happy house, and there are certain areas where you can play and have fun with it and people won’t bat an eye. Debbie loves cheerful patterns and wallpaper, and she says her inspiration in life is Lilly Pulitzer. “I think it’s so important to know who you are and just make yourself happy in your home,” she says. The Stolles’ pink laundry room with the Dutch door and their colorful green and pink butler pantry are playful examples of Debbie’s love of color. The study is another color-drenched space with a moodier undertone. It was the rst space where they
experimented with painting everything, including the ceiling, and they love the result.
Upstairs, upon entering the primary bedroom you rst pass through a sitting area with a curved balcony. The views from that space are gorgeous. A cozy replace in the primary bedroom can be found burning on most evenings in the winter. “We had a replace in our very rst home, and I remember I thought it was so romantic,” says Debbie. The other bedrooms upstairs include a room for the grandkids with bunks and their own bathroom.
The lower level has a di erent feel than the rest of the house, with tropical tile in one of the baths and bright coral painted shelves. “We were going for a bit of a British West Indies look downstairs,” says Debbie.
That colorful lower level is set up perfectly for family and guests with two more guest rooms, a living area, a co ee station and a show-stopping bar area with a builtin saltwater sh tank. When Bruce graduated with his undergraduate degree, Debbie
““We just thought, why not a Cape Cod-style home in the Ozarks? I want to live like I’m on vacation every day.”
A bright and spacious kitchen features two islands (far left). Debbie and Bruce Stolle’s pups lounge in the living room (bottom left). The rotunda’s centerpiece is a curved staircase (left).
gifted him a sh tank. Since then, he’s always wanted to have a built-in sh tank. Debbie designed the space but the sh tank was all Bruce. “That’s his baby,” she says. Debbie’s contributions include a unique refrigerator that they both agreed was perfect for the bar. Debbie thinks it looks like an old icebox, but guests tell her it reminds them of a vault.
It’s not surprising that the Stolles are a fun couple with a love for entertaining. In the summer, they host big breakfasts for their guests beside the in nity pool, sitting for hours and enjoying the view. Last year the couple invited Saddlebrooke neighbors over for a Kentucky Derby party. “We did non-alcoholic mint juleps, Kentucky browns, races and prizes,” says Debbie. “We served Kentucky fried chicken, which people thought was a riot. It was just so fun!”
Debbie has more than just an eye for design and a knack for hosting. As a decorator by trade and with a large following on YouTube, “Your Home Your Happy Place,” which focuses on decorating and entertaining, you could and should call her a pro. She even hangs all her own wallpaper, which is no easy feat. Debbie’s message is clear in her home and to her YouTube channel. “Do what makes you happy.”
At Home
Record your garden’s successes and failures in a journal to grow your skills.
Plan Your Perfect Garden
DBY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
ON’T LET YOUR GARDEN observations become foggy memories of the past. Create a garden journal to plan and track your garden’s progress. “If you keep a detailed garden journal, you will have a resource to develop and improve your gardening skills year after year,” says Greene County Master Gardener George Deatz.
Set Up Journal Sections
Deatz recommends creating sections in your garden journal. One for garden layout, where you sketch or describe your garden layout to
keep track of when and where everything is planted. The next section can be about plant pro les. “You’ll want to document each type of plant with full name, variety, planting date and care instructions from the packets,” says Deatz. “Seasonal tasks and tips can be the next section where you create your own calendar with a task list for weekly, monthly, and seasonal gardening activities for your future use.”
Include Key Information
Deatz suggests keeping track of key information like dates
for planting, germination, owering, problems and harvest dates. This information makes it easy to generate musthave seed and plant lists for next year. Weather is another thing Deatz recommends you keep track of. “Record your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone and track local weather conditions, including spring and fall frost dates, rainfall, and temperature changes,” says Deatz. Understanding your area’s weather patterns can be very helpful when trying to decide whether to cover your tomatoes against a forecasted frost. Plan your soil tasks in your journal as well. “Keep track of soil types, soil test dates with results, pH levels, plus any added amendments with dates,” says Deatz.
Track the Progress and Make a Plan
George Deatz’s favorite journal is Seed to Harvest and Beyond: Garden Journal and Calendar at extension.missouri.edu. GET YOUR OWN
Recording the progress of your garden can be an exciting and rewarding process. Deatz suggests taking regular photos to visually document growth, changes and problems in your garden. “Also make sure to note details of any diseases, pests or unusual plant behaviors,” says Deatz. “At the end of each season, review your notes to identify what worked well and what didn’t.” You can use your new insights to start planning for the next garden. Deatz recommends doing this sooner rather than later, while the information is fresh in your mind.
IN THE GARDEN
Forever Home
ONE BUSY COUPLE FINDS SOLACE AND COMFORT IN A TUCKED-AWAY WOODED PROPERTY IN SOUTHWEST SPRINGFIELD.
AT THE END OF A CURVY TREE-LINED ROAD SITS THE Craftsman style cottage of Paula Adams, president of Penmac, and her fiancé, Keith Morris, the VP of Buffalo Wild Wings. Their newly remodeled home
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
PHOTOGRAPHED BY KATY ST. CLAIR
PEEK INSIDE
on the southwest side of Springfield is a culmination of things they both love. It’s a secluded woodland setting, and its proximity to the city is one of the home’s biggest draws for the couple. “We wanted to be closer to family,” says Adams. “The acreage, the setting, this is close to where I grew up.” When the couple first happened upon the home that was built in the 1980s, Adams thought she could immediately move in, but after some daydreaming and a little Pinterest browsing the couple decided to make some changes to make their new home together suit their lifestyles and tastes.
“We really wanted it to be more of a Craftsman style home, with modern features,” says Morris. Adams wanted a lighter feel to the home. The kitchen was opened up (and expanded, thanks to the removal of a laundry room and butler’s pantry), creating a large entertainer’s kitchen with expansive island. The drop ceilings were removed to reveal 12-foot ceilings. Other changes included converting one of the bedrooms into a closet, and sprucing up the outdoor space with new landscaping, new decking and an upgraded pool. The home’s three fireplaces also got rustic cottage-style makeovers. The remodel took about a year and a half, and there are still some small projects on the horizon, like adding a pool ca -
Paula Adams keeps her remodeled 1980s cottage decorated with warm evergreen vibes throughout the entire winter season. (left)
At Home
“It just feels good. Its openness and warmness. I’ll never leave this place.”
bana and covering part of the deck. “It’s our forever place, and we’re just making it our own,” Adams says.
This busy couple spends a lot of time away from their home, so coming back to a cozy and tranquil setting is very important to them. Morris spends a lot of time in the kitchen cooking for their families when they come to visit. “He’s the chef,” Adams says. Morris can often be found cooking chili and grilled cheese on their state-of-the-art Wolf range. He says he likes doing burgers and taco bars on the flattop too. Entertaining is something Adams has always enjoyed, and their new home is set up to entertain perfectly. They’ve hosted family and had baby and wedding showers there, and the couple is particularly excited about summertime. “The outside has been a work in progress, so this summer we will really get to enjoy the pool,” Adams says. “I can’t wait to have the grands out.”
For now the couple will settle for warm fires in their beautiful gas fireplaces, and lots of hot bowls of Morris’ chili. “This home is perfect for us,” says Adams. “It’s the perfect size, and I love all the extra storage.” Adams’ last home didn’t have a ton of storage so she had to rent spaces to store all her holiday decor. She decorates for every holiday, with the help of her daughter Nicole Miller. Being together and spending time with the people they love is at the heart of the home.
“It just feels good,” she says. “Its openness and warmness. I’ll never leave this place.”
Not up for making a DIY edible birdhouse? You can purchase one from The Nest.
A Gift for the Birds
This DIY edible birdhouse is the perfect snow day activity for the whole family.
One of my family’s favorite winter activities is watching the wild birds. This year we decided to try and create some edible birdseed houses. All you need to begin are some wooden bird houses, which you can easily pick up at your local cra store. You’ll want to twist in some eyelet hooks and add some string so you can easily hang it. Then gather up your materials to decorate. You’ll want a variety of natural elements so you can
create designs and attract a variety of birds. Start with lots of wild birdseeds, and a variety of nuts and fruit like peanuts, almonds, dried cranberries, dried apricots and oats. The birds at our house love black sunflower seeds, so I make sure to have plenty of them for this project. I also like to grab some sprigs of greenery o some of my evergreens for a little added winter decoration. Now it’s time to make our edible glue. You’ll need
3/4 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of hot water, 1 packet of unflavored gelatin and 3 tablespoons of corn syrup. Pour hot water into a glass bowl, then mix in your gelatin packet until dissolved. Then stir in flour and corn syrup. Spread the glue mixture onto your birdhouse with a brush and then get to decorating with your seeds, nuts and fruit. You’ll want to work in small sections so the glue doesn’t dry. Wait at least 30 minutes before hanging it up.
OUTDOOR LIVING / BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
RESIDENTIAL PROS TO KNOW PROFILES
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. Rest assured—we’ll guide you to the professionals. Here are your Residential Pros to Know.
888-564-4897
888LOGGUYS.COM 6701 SELMORE RD., OZARK
From 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.
Often their customers think that they will need to nd another vendor to re nish their decks, paint their windows or maybe even re nish wood doors. The good news is that 888-Log-Guys can do those tasks, usually at the same time that they are re nishing your home.
888-Log-Guys has been in the business of log home restoration for more than 25 years, with team members who have decades of hands-on 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.
BY
PHOTO
KATY ST. CLAIR
Stephanie Chapman, Dustin White, Nicole Carr, Jeff Parks, Jordan White, Jason Douglas
ASSEMBLIES OF GOD CREDIT UNION
417-831-4398
AGCU.ORG
1776 E. INDEPENDENCE ST., SPRINGFIELD
At Assemblies of God Credit Union (AGCU), members’ dreams come rst. Since its founding in Spring eld in 1951, AGCU has grown to serve members in all 50 states and missionaries in 190 countries. Today, AGCU stands as the largest credit union in the area, one of Missouri’s fastest-growing credit unions and among the country’s leading faith-based nancial institutions. AGCU proudly serves people and organizations associated with the Assemblies of God, AG church adherents, and extended family members with full-service banking options. Membership bene ts extend nationwide, providing access to over 10,000 credit unions and 30,000 ATMs without service fees.
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 about one of Spring eld’s longest-best-kept secrets, visit a branch and 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!
Matthew Myers, Mitchell Swanson, Jason Lister
BluCurrent Credit Union offers a range of mortgage options, including conventional xed-rate mortgages, government loans (FHA, VA, USDA) and home equity lines of credit. Known for its competitive rates, personalized service and low fees, BluCurrent has earned a reputation for putting member satisfaction rst. They serve homeowners and investors across Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois and Colorado.
Whether members are buying their rst home or adding to their investment portfolio, BluCurrent works with them to nd the right mortgage. Their team is known for responding quickly to questions, walking members through their options and providing guidance to help them make informed nancial decisions. They take a personal approach to each member, ensuring that their mortgage ts their speci c needs.
The BluCurrent team—with a combined 17 years of experience—holds licenses with the National Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) and is actively involved with the Greater Spring eld Board of Realtors. BluCurrent is committed to supporting its community, fostering strong relationships with members and staying updated with the latest industry trends through ongoing education and professional development. Their dedication to service and expertise makes them a standout choice for anyone looking to navigate the mortgage process with con dence.
PHOTO
Hannah McCaig, DeAnna Downs, Courtney Pruente
CONCEPTS BY DESIGN
417-725-3400 CABINETCONCEPTSBYDESIGN.COM 4123 N. STATE HWY H, SPRINGFIELD
Meet Matt and Shelley Wehner, the dynamic duo behind Concepts by Design. For the past 17 years, they’ve been transforming homes in 417-land with custom cabinets, closets and moldings. When it comes to staying on top of trends and using the best construction practices, Concepts by Design is always ahead of the curve. Their design team is like a squad of spatial planning wizards, ensuring every inch of a home is used to its fullest potential. With a friendly and talented team, they deliver top-notch quality and service every time. Plus, they’re proud members of the HBA, SDA, CMA (Cabinet Makers Association) and NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association).
What sets them apart is their fearless approach to thinking outside the box. They’re ready to try new things and push the boundaries of design. When cabinets are designed by Concepts by Design, clients can expect to maximize function and storage in a way that ts their lifestyle. The best part? They bring each vision to life with stunning 3D renderings before production even begins. This means everyone involved can see the nal plan, understand how it will work and get excited about the project. For anyone looking to transform their home with custom designs that are anything but ordinary, Concepts by Design is the team.
Matt Wehner and Shelley Wehner
Edge Supply is in the business of transformation. Whether it’s a custom home or simply a new sink faucet, Edge Supply has the parts and professionalism to bring transformation to how you live. After all, they’re your go-to plumbing store!
Experience is what makes the difference. This family-owned company has been in business since 1946 serving both contractors and homeowners throughout Missouri and northwest Arkansas. Staff at both the East Traf cway and South Campbell locations are serious about serving customers and meeting their needs. In fact, they have more than 100 combined years of experience. They’ll bridge the gap between homeowners and plumbing contractors, and even offer installation advice to do-it-yourselfers.
Find the latest styles at Edge Supply. Whatever your project style or budget may be, they have countless options to make your dream bath or kitchen a reality. Their products range everywhere from essential to astounding. Edge Supply’s showrooms spark the imagination, and their warehouses are stocked deep and high with even the hardest-to- nd products—the kind of items that most places have to special order. Edge Supply is all about making customers happy and building lasting relationships. After all, at Edge Supply, it’s all about how you live.
BY
PHOTO
KATY ST. CLAIR
LANGSTON GROUP
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 Missouri. By 2024, RealTrends Veri ed ranked them 6th among medium-sized teams, a notable achievement as their eight agents compete with teams from cities like Kansas City and St. Louis.
The team consists of successful Realtors, Dustin Langston, Kurt Killingsworth, David Jacquez, Katie Taylor, Ryan Henslee, Mary Jo Williams, Jacob Perry and Jade Lovelady. Their multi-award-winning service and expertise re ect their dedication to clients and adaptability in a dynamic market.
Serving from Greater Spring eld to the Lake of the Ozarks, Langston Group handles farm, residential, investment and commercial properties. They assist rst-time homebuyers 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.
Jacob Perry, Jade Lovelady, David Jacquez, Katie Taylor, Dustin Langston, Mary Jo Williams, Kurt Killingsworth, Ryan Henslee
Build with con dence with Monticello Custom Homes and Remodeling. Owner Jason Bekebrede has a record of excellence as past president and current member of the Home Builders Association of Greater Spring eld, a Certi ed Building Professional and a Certi ed Green Professional. He has spent 20 years perfecting his process of building a custom home or remodeling an existing one. He works with the best trades and vendors in the area and is constantly gaining education in an ever-changing industry.
Monticello stands out with their systematic approach to each project. From foundation to nished product, each decision is planned for in advance, which leads to a smoother process, better results and happier homeowners. Monticello’s work, seen on social media, garners raves from fans and building professionals worldwide.
Monticello’s team takes seriously the trust placed in them, to come into your home and to work within your budget. Some projects take months to over a year to complete, so a strong relationship with good communication and transparency is key.
The mission of Monticello Custom Homes & Remodeling is to be good stewards of the buyers’ resources and the environment, while also pushing the limit on ideas, design and functionality. Call 417-416-4497 to start the conversation.
PHOTO BY KATY ST. CLAIR
Riley Strickland, Jason Bekebrede, Trevor Pugh
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 rst-time homebuyers, seasoned investors and individuals seeking luxurious second homes near the lake.
What distinguishes Munnik Real Estate Group is its commitment to accessibility and personalized service. They prioritize client satisfaction above all else, striving to create a one-of-a-kind experience 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 clients feel like the main focus.
Beyond fostering strong business relationships, Amber Munnik and her team aim to forge lasting personal relationships through their exemplary service and respect for each client’s speci c needs. For 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
At Ozark Deck and Timber, their distinction lies in several key areas, including craftsmanship, customization, experience and client satisfaction. Specializing in timber 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 budgets. With 30 years of combined industry experience, the team at Ozark Deck and Timber brings 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 Ozark Deck and Timber 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.
As a proud member of the Spring eld Home Builders Association, 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.
BY
PHOTO
KATY ST. CLAIR
Cody and Doug Tapken
UNIQUE TILE
Since 1988, Unique Tile has been a locally owned wholesale distributor of designer-oriented tile and stone. They set standards for style and design to meet the demands of their clients, both residential and commercial nationwide. Their expert staff travels the globe to personally select stocked tile series, presenting 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 hundreds of stock tiles, thousands of special-order tiles and all the tools and products needed for installation. The Stone Gallery at Unique Tile is one of only two granite fabrication facilities in Missouri accredited by the Natural Stone Institute. The standards for accreditation have been veri ed through a multistep process, including a thorough document review, written exam and extensive on-site inspection. With decades of experience in the stone industry, Unique Tile’s team brings expertise and precision to every project. Quality products, attention to detail and exceptional customer service have helped Unique Tile gain the loyalty of their clients over the past 36 years. Get to know them online by browsing their website at uniquetile.com and ordering through a professional near you.
Front Row: Paul Mudd, Melissa Turpin; Back Row: Kevin Alba, Regina Salvador, Stephanie Karlsons, Tara Guydos
ARVEST BANK
417-885-7256 | ARVEST.COM
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 best loan for their speci c 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 Home4Me® 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 417-885-7240.
BROOKLINE DOORWORKS
417-883-3667 | BROOKLINEDOORWORKS.COM 308 W. LAKEWOOD ST., SPRINGFIELD
Brookline Doorworks has been a staple in the Ozarks for the last 30 years and counting. If you are looking for someone you can trust to install or service residential and commercial garage doors, you will want to learn more about this family-owned and-operated business. Brookline Doorworks is IDEA certi ed 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 Spring eld, Missouri, 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!
PHOTOS
KATY ST. CLAIR
Alex, Chris, Jamie, Christine, Joe, David
Arvest is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. Loans subject to credit approval
CLEAN GREEN RESTORATION
417-300-5062 | CGRMO.COM 143 E. STATE HWY CC, NIXA
Clean Green Restoration, a family-owned business, specializes in re, water and mold damage restoration. Led by industry expert Miles, with over 20 years of experience, the team provides seamless solutions, including mold removal, water cleanup, re restoration and odor removal. IICRC-certi ed and EPA Lead-Safe Certi ed, they offer honest, transparent service without upselling unnecessary work. The team at Clean Green Restoration are experts in navigating insurance claims, offering free inspections and fair pricing to keep things simple and stress-free. They are a trusted choice for restoring safe, healthy homes with care and professionalism, treating each home as if it were their own.
ETHEL CURBOW
417-447-4968 | ETHELCURBOW.COM 1324 E. KINGSLEY ST., SPRINGFIELD
It’s hard to outshine Ethel Curbow’s reputation for excellence in 417-land real estate. Along with her AMAX team, she’s made a name for herself in the industry, listing and selling residential and land properties over the past 30 years. She brings plenty of experience to the table, and customers are oored that she always answers her phone. Ethel keeps clients informed, markets their properties in every kind of media and has a great track record of success—that leads to many satis ed past clients. The Curbow team is knowledgeable, experienced, hard-working and ready to help you with your real estate needs!
David Braeckel, Ethel Curbow, Kristi Williams, Nick Jackson
Miles and Tarah McNeill
GARAGE EXPERTS
417-429-2166 | GARAGEEXPERTS.COM 1274 KINDER ST. UNIT A, NIXA
Transform a plain or stained concrete garage oor into a beautiful extension of the home with epoxy coating systems from Garage Experts. Their “direct to concrete epoxy” product forms a strong bond, guaranteed not to peel or ake. With over 100 custom ake options and durable top coats, clients can expect a bright and easyto-clean nish tailored to their unique style. Garage Experts also offers custom storage cabinets and organizing systems to match the new oor, enhancing both 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.
Lorenz began in 1978 and has proven they know what it takes to succeed in an industry where customer satisfaction is everything. Their goal is to provide excellent workmanship, consistent service and fair prices. Lorenz’s technicians can handle all of your HVAC repair needs regardless of the brand, including complete replacement of your system with quality Trane or Mitsubishi equipment if needed. From traditional systems to ductless and mini-split systems, they will help you nd what would be best to keep your home warm this winter. Locally owned and operated. Just another reason why they’re your friends at Lorenz and your Trane comfort specialists.
PHOTOS BY KATY ST. CLAIR
Kevin and Jake
Don Gardner, Andy Carr, Mike Lorenz Polino Andrew Wagner, Dylan Ballard
SPRING-GREEN LAWN CARE AND TRIMWORKS LAWNCARE & IRRIGATION
417-368-0591 | 417-886-5740
SPRING-GREEN.COM | TRIMWORKSLAWNCARE.COM
3328 E. LINWOOD ST., SPRINGFIELD
Spring-Green Lawn Care and partner Trimworks Lawncare & 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 unique to each customer, so that your individual lawn goals can be met. Forget the hassle during the hottest parts of the year. For a lush and healthy lawn, contact them today!
The Grill Guys, owned by Skyler Spartan and Charlie Wallace, 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 Outdoor Living store in southwest Missouri, they offer the largest selection and expert guidance to enhance outdoor spaces. The Grill Guys are Certi ed Level II Eggsperts and are dedicated to helping customers create memorable moments with loved ones through the joy of outdoor cooking.
Skyler Spartan and Charlie Wallace
Jonathan Thurman
WEST COAST
GETAWAY
Plan a spring or summer trip to Monterey Bay, California, where coastal grandeur meets quaint beach town charm.
FOR A CALIFORNIA COASTAL VACATION that o ers more than sand and sun, it’s hard to beat exploring Monterey. Here you’ll discover a quaint beach town vibe with a side of history and gorgeous rocky coastlines.
Just south of San Francisco in central California, the sprawling city of Monterey and its charming neigh-
bor Paci c Grove are located along California’s famous Paci c Coast Highway 1 in Monterey Bay. While Monterey makes a nice one- or twoday stop on a Paci c Highway road trip, there’s more than enough to see and do for a vacation destination.
If you like coastal beauty, fresh seafood, photographing nature,
walking trails, active pursuits and marine life preservation, and prefer vintage beach town charm to party beach carousing, you might like Monterey too. It o ers a balanced blend of relaxation and adventure.
Consider these highlights from our August visit to help you plan your own trip.
PACIFIC GROVE COAST
IN A WAY, MONTEREY and Paci c Grove are two parts of a whole that blend almost seamlessly. Paci c Grove is a small, historic community on the tip of Monterey Peninsula with an easy-toexplore coastline that’s rich in tidepools, rocky outcrops and sea life. Known for its charming narrow streets lined with 19th- and early 20th-century homes, Paci c Grove’s smalltown beach vibe feels easygoing, even when it attracts more visitors in summertime.
We rented a historic cottage here, a few blocks from Lovers Point Park and Beach. The scenic 4.4-acre Lovers Point features sandy beaches, climbable rock formations and a lawn area with picnic tables. It’s a hub of activity with beach volleyball, a children’s pool, the Lovers Point Beach Cafe and the popular Beach House Restaurant and Bar with an amazing dinner view. You can also rent kayaks, bikes and surreys for more active exploration.
The Coastal Recreation Trail along Ocean View Boulevard connects with Lovers Point, continuing north around the peninsula and south beyond Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey. It follows the old Southern Paci c railroad tracks that once serviced the bay’s historic sardine canning era featured in author John Steinbeck’s 1945 novel, Cannery Row. It’s easy
to access sections of the trail via scenic pull-o s along Ocean View. Many cottage rentals and boutique hotels are close enough to walk or cycle to the trail, which we enjoyed nearly every day.
The trail passes amazing coastal scenery including tide pools teeming with sea life. We also walked the Asilomar Dunes Preserve boardwalk and the Asilomar Coast Trail, which picks up where the Recreation Trail ends, for even more amazing views.
The Asilomar Coast Trail leads to Asilomar State Beach, passing by the Great Tide Pool. Described in Cannery Row, it’s one of several spots recalled in literature by Steinbeck, whose family had a Paci c Grove summer home when he was a boy.
17-MILE DRIVE
ONE OF THE MOST popular attractions in Monterey County is the 17-Mile Drive, a scenic road with an entry fee that runs along the rugged coast.
Pack snacks, take your time and plan to linger at 17 picturesque stops on this drive through Pebble Beach and the Del Monte Forest. Its most iconic views include Spanish Bay, Bird Rock, the Ghost Trees of Pescadero Point and the famous 250-year-old Lone Cypress.
We started our drive at the Paci c Grove gate, which leads rst to the beach at Spanish Bay (stop No. 3) where we
saw dozens of cairns built with an abundance of smooth beach rocks. Stop No. 7, Bird Rock, is one of the most fascinating stops. And loudest. From a distance, Bird Rock appears covered in brown foliage. Zoom in with your camera or look through binoculars to reveal a mass of sea lions and seals that claimed the rock that was once primarily a seabird perch.
The drive continues through groves of some of the oldest known Monterey Cypress trees, leading to the Lone Cypress (stop No. 12), one of this drive’s most popular viewpoints. Another fascinating stop (No. 13) showcases bare, sun-bleached, ghostlike Cypress trees overlooking the ocean. The scenic day trip ends near
WHEN TO VISIT
Early spring brings rain but May is one of the warmest months.
Summer is busiest and temperatures are moderate, but coastal fog can be persistent.
Locals call autumn their “summer” because days are warm and sunny though nights are cool. It’s also when monarch butter ies start migrating.
Winter is cool but brings huge waves, the migration of humpback whales and overwintering monarchs.
the 18th hole of Pebble Beach Golf Links, where you can get a meal at the nearby lodge.
MONTEREY BAY ATTRACTIONS
JUST NORTH OF PACIFIC Grove along the fascinating National Marine Sanctuary in Monterey, the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium is worth a visit. Each room tells the story of marine life that’s just outside its windows. (Part of the aquarium includes ocean-view decks!) Exhibits include a kelp forest, aviary, rocky shore, Monterey Bay habitats and much more. We enjoyed catching a diver feeding show in the kelp forest tank.
The aquarium is located on the bustling Cannery Row. Named for the once-thriving sardine canning industry and Steinbeck’s novel, it’s one of the area’s most visited attractions where old cannery buildings were refurbished into restaurants, shops and galleries. You’ll also nd cozy accommodations, along with bike and kayak rentals.
A statue monument on Steinbeck Plaza pays tribute to the author, gures in his books and Cannery Row history.
A mile and a half north of Cannery Row, the old Fisherman’s Wharf is another tourist hub. Once an active commercial shing wharf, it features charming shops, a variety of restaurants and whale-watching tours.
CARMEL AND BIG SUR VACATIONING
IN Monterey wouldn’t be complete without a day trip into Big Sur by way of Carmel-by-the-Sea. The scenic drive and wilderness area—a visual feast—starts just south of Carmel, a charming artist community with pretty shops and galleries. Leave early to stop for breakfast in Carmel before your drive, or stop for dinner at the end of your day.
Carmel, minutes from Paci c Grove, makes a nice day out on its own, too. That way you’ll have time to shop downtown, tour the historic Carmel Mission Basilica and visit the Carmel River State Beach.
Big Sur—neither a park nor a single destination—is a 90-mile stretch of rugged terrain between Carmel and San Simeon along Paci c Highway 1. It features dramatic coastal overlooks, rivers and waterfalls, mountains and trails, a few sandy beaches and several state parks. Lodging and restaurants are available in limited sections.
From Monterey, it’s roughly 40 miles (or 90 minutes without stopping) to McWay Falls in Julia Pfei er Burns State Park, the farthest spot you can reach because of landslide repair on the highway. (Check bigsurcalifornia.org.)
Depending on your time and interests, choose one or more of these Big Sur stops along your scenic drive.
Garrapata State Park
If you like to hike, state parks within Big Sur offer plenty of options, including the long coastal stretch of Garrapata State Park. We strolled a portion of the Soberanes Point trail to an amazing ocean view. Farther south, we stopped at Garrapata State Beach, a gorgeous sandy shore with sparkling turquoise water, and walked another pretty trail.
Bixby Bridge
This famous open-spandrel arch bridge over Bixby Creek is an Instagram star. There’s a pull-o for taking pictures.
Big Sur Lodge / Pfei er Big Sur State Park
Stop for a meal or a break at the lodge in Pfei er Big Sur State Park on the western slope of the Santa Lucia Mountains. Explore tall redwood trees and the picturesque Big Sur River behind the lodge. Or hike a trail into the mountainous forest.
(Tip: There are more restaurants and lodging options nearby.)
Pfei er Beach
Known for its patches of purple sand, rocky outcrops and the Keyhole Rock, Pfei er Beach is a Big Sur favorite. To reach it, turn right at the “Narrow Road” sign at the obscure Sycamore Canyon Road, half a mile south of Pfei er Big Sur. Travel two miles to limited parking ($15), which lls up fast.
(Tip: Arrive before 10 a.m. on weekends.)
McWay Falls at Julia Pfei er Burns State Park
About 11 miles south of Pfei er Big Sur State Park, this picture-post-
HEAD ONLINE
Visit 417mag.com to see additional photos and fun tips for planning your own trip to Monterey Bay.
card beach scene with an 80-foot waterfall looks like it could be in Hawaii. Park in the state park and walk a short, level path under the highway to the must-see waterfall overlook.
Whether you plan to explore Big Sur trails and stop for activities or simply enjoy a relaxing scenic drive, you’ll be wowed by the grandeur of central California’s coastline.
Beach rocks
Lone Cypress tree on 17-Mile Drive
Big Sur Lodge
McWay Falls
Of417 Best
You, our readers, have spoken. We’ve compiled the best places to eat, dishes to try and more in southwest Missouri, as voted by you.
READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS EDITED BY JO JOLLIFF
EDITORS’ PICKS BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES, WITH ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY KATY ST. CLAIR
PHOTOS BY BRANDON ALMS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW DOES 417 MAGAZINE PICK WINNERS?
Throughout the year, our team has kept up with what’s new, hot, in style, delicious, making waves, going viral, selling out and making a big impression in 417-land. Then our editors combined them into a slate of nominations for 417land to vote on. There were killer contestants to vote on for each category, plus voters had the option to write in anyone we le o the list. (Ugh, why didn’t we think of them?!) A er the voting period ended, we compiled your votes, and the winners are published right here.
HOW DO I TELL YOU ABOUT MY BUSINESS?
If you think your business deserves to be on next year’s ballot, we want to know about it! Send a note to our editorial sta at editor@417mag.com. We take calls, letters, emails and skywriting from our readers about what to check out. We’re sure you’re awesome, so tell us why. Don’t be surprised if some of our staers come around to check out what you have to o er. In fact, exploring new, fun local stu is our favorite part of our jobs! We are always looking to share the best with our audience.
DO ADVERTISERS AUTOMATICALLY WIN?
Nope! Let’s put this rumor to rest. Still skeptical? Ask one of our advertisers who didn’t win. We take serious measures to keep our integrity intact and maintain boundaries between our sales and editorial departments. In fact, we’re required to in order to uphold our good standing with the City and Regional Magazine Association (CRMA). You can’t buy a Best of 417 nomination or win with money. You can only earn a spot on the list by being the best, getting the word out and raking in the votes!
Readers’ Choice Awards
5 BEST
SPRINGFIELD FINE DINING RESTAURANTS
(in alphabetical order)
Avanzare Italian Dining
Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub
Metropolitan Grill
The Ozark Mill Restaurant
5 BEST
PLACES FOR LUNCH
(in alphabetical order)
Bambino’s Cafe
City Butcher and Barbecue
Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub
Nearly Famous Deli & Pasta House
Neighbor’s Mill Bakery & Cafe
BEST NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT
Winner: Piccolo | Nixa
Second Place: Galloway Grill | Galloway
Third Place: Cafè Cusco | Commercial Street
BEST BRANSON AREA RESTAURANT
Winner: The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks
Second Place: Osage Restaurant at Top of the Rock
Third Place: Level 2 Steakhouse
BEST JOPLIN RESTAURANT
Winner: Red Onion Cafe
Second Place: Blackstone Gastropub
Third Place: Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill
BEST SWEET-AND-COZY MORNING STOPS
Winner: The Workshop at Finley Farms
Second Place: Sleepy Opossum Cafe
Third Place: Urban Grounds Co ee +
Plant Lab
BEST RESTAURANT SERVICE
Winner: Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub
Second Place: The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks
Third Place: The Ozark Mill Restaurant
BEST PLACE FOR BREAKFAST
Winner: Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe
Second Place: Early Bird Breakfast Pub
Third Place: Billy Gail’s Restaurant
BEST PLACE FOR BRUNCH
Winner: The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks
Second Place: Aviary Cafe
Third Place: JW’s Kitchen
BEST COFFEE SHOP
Winner: Mudhouse Co ee
Second Place: Architect Co ee Co.
Third Place: Dancing Mule Co ee Company
Readers’ Choice Awards
BEST STEAKS
Winner: Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub
Second Place: Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Third Place: Avanzare Italian Dining
BEST BURGERS
Winner: Black Sheep Burgers + Shakes
Second Place: Lindberg’s Tavern
Third Place: Bair’s Sports Grill
BEST SALADS
Winner: Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub
Second Place: Bambino’s Cafe
Third Place: Garbo’s Pizzeria
BEST SANDWICHES
Winner: The Sub Shop
Second Place: Derby Deli
Third Place: J. Parrino’s Queen City Deli
Read about the crazygood cookies from Pappo’s Pizzeria on p. 90.
BEST PIZZA
Winner: Pappo’s Pizzeria
Second Place: Pizza House
Third Place: Arris’ Pizza
BEST CHICKEN WINGS
Winner: Coyote’s Adobe Cafe
Second Place: Big Whiskey’s American Restaurant & Bar
Third Place: Springfield Brewing Company
BEST BARBECUE
Winner: City Butcher and Barbecue
Second Place: Gettin’ Basted
Third Place: Crosstown Barbecue
BEST ITALIAN FOOD
Winner: Avanzare Italian Dining
Second Place: Bambino’s Cafe
Third Place: Piccolo Contemporary Italian
BEST MEXICAN FOOD
Winner: Cesar’s Old Mexico
Second Place: Señor Julian Mexican
Bar & Grill
Third Place: La Paloma Mexican Grill
BEST TACOS
Winner: Cesar’s Old Mexico
Second Place: Tinga Tacos
Third Place: Tacos El Champu
BEST FOOD TRUCK
Winner: London Calling Pasty Company
Second Place: I Love Tacos Taqueria
Third Place: Not’cho Ordinary Taco
Brisket and pulled pork from City Butcher and Barbecue
Dumplings from Corner 21 Chinese Cuisine
Readers’ Choice Awards
BEST THAI FOOD
Winner: Everyday Thai
Second Place: Rama Thai Café
Third Place: Thai Express
BEST CHINESE FOOD
Winner: Corner 21 Chinese Cuisine
Second Place: Leong’s Asian Diner
Third Place: Lucy’s Chinese Food
BEST SUSHI
Winner: Haruno Japanese Sushi Bar & Grill
Second Place: Nakato Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar
Third Place: Kai A er Dark
BEST BEER MENU
Winner: 417 Taphouse
Second Place: The Backlot at Alamo
Dra house
Third Place: Farmers Gastropub
BEST COCKTAIL MENU
Winner: The Golden Girl Rum Club
Second Place: The Ozark Mill Restaurant
Third Place: Miss Boston’s Cocktail Lounge
BEST LOCAL BREWERY EXPERIENCE
Winner: Wire Road Brewing Company
Second Place: 4 by 4 Brewing Company
Third Place: Springfield Brewing Company
BEST WINE MENU
Winner: Cellar + Plate
Second Place: The Vineyard Market
Third Place: Avanzare Italian Dining
BEST SWEET TREATS
Winner: Andy’s Frozen Custard
Second Place: The Keeter Center
College Creamery
Third Place: Pineapple Whip
Readers’ Choice Awards
BEST CATERER
Winner: Simply Delicious Catering
Second Place: Char Steakhouse & Oyster Bar
Third Place: Traveling Chef
BEST VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY OPTIONS
BEST GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS
Winner: Cafe Cusco
Second Place: Black Sheep Burgers + Shakes
Third Place: Van Gogh’s Eeterie
BEST PATIO
Winner: Wire Road Brewing Company
Second Place: 4 by 4 Brewing Company -
BEST PATIOS WITH A VIEW
Winner: The Ozark Mill Restaurant
Second Place: Bu alo Bar at Top of the Rock
Third Place: Vantage Roo op Lounge & Conservatory
BEST PLACE TO RUN INTO
The Up Down, Plum Silly and Smokey the Pear Mocktails by So Curious from The Royal
Editors’ Picks
BEST CAFFEINE CULTURE MASH-UP
El Cafecito
This is a little restaurant that packs some big flavor. The menu features authentic food and great co ee that bring an all-things-Mexican vibe. Our recommendation for a morning meal: a plate of chilaquiles, a hot cup of cafe de olla and a Mexican pastry.
BEST GRAB-AND-GO LUNCH
MaMa Jean’s Natural Market
It’s not just MaMa Jeans’s Natural Market’s proximity to our o ces that we love. The salad bar is top-notch, with unique ingredients. (Roasted sweet potatoes? Yes!) The Drunken Bean Dip (made with Mother’s Lil’ Helper IPA) plus a bag of chips always hits the spot too.
BEST TASTE OF THE ISLANDS
Palm & Paddle Grille
The coconut shrimp and the jerk chicken both make us swoon at this Caribbean inspired eatery, and the coconut martini pairs perfectly with both. Plus you can get an order of salted caramel plantains for dessert… I mean!
BEST CREATIVE FOODIE MOMENTS
Good Spirits & Co. Headquarters
You won’t find an imperfect cocktail here, but that’s not the only draw. There are luxe pop-ups, multi-course Sunday Supper Club events, and lots of seasonal events that always surprise and delight. Good Spirits & Co. owners are also the minds behind other local hotspots, like The Golden Girl Rum Club and Cherry Picker Package & Fare, so their reputation precedes them.
BEST WAY TO WIN FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE
St. George’s Donuts
Need to earn some goodwill points at the o ce? Bring in a dozen donuts. Need a quick breakfast treat for your out-of-town guests? Pick up a dozen donuts. The possible scenarios in which you might gain social capital by being the bearer of a box of donuts are endless, and all of them lead you straight to ol’ reliable: St. George’s. You can’t go wrong with a combo of classic flavors, but we suggest adding in a few special donuts when you really want to impress—like our all-time favorite cinnamon twist or the delightful maple long john.
BEST MOCKTAILS
The Royal Cocktails at The Royal, sipped in an intimate setting with a live band nearby, are always a winner. The mocktails, which are created by So Curious Co. and don’t skip on sophistication, are just as good. They incorporate Seedlip non-alcoholic spirits and flavorful additions like the plum and peppercorn shrub, Earl Grey tea and orange bitters in the Plum Silly mocktail.
BEST VEGETARIAN BREAKFAST
Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe
The best breakfasts tend to go one of two ways: a plate of eggs plus an array of salty meats, or a plate of some sweet dessert disguised as a morning meal. We adore both of those things. But vegetarians who don’t have a sweet tooth are o en out of luck. Not so at Gailey’s Breakfast Cafe, though. There you can get locally made (and very tasty) Jake’s Vegan sausage inside your breakfast burrito.
BEST LAKE DAY PICK-ME-UP
The Funky Twig
A er a long day on the water, soaking up the sun and swimming your heart out on Table Rock Lake, you need a treat. We love The Funky Twig in Kimberling City for these moments. Get a scoop of maple-bourbon-bacon ice cream on a bubble wa e.
BEST MENU CHANGE-UP
Skully’s
Skully’s surprised us all when it added a sizeable banh mi sandwich section to the menu—and we are here for it! These Vietnamese-inspired sammies are absolute flavor bombs, and we love that there are multiple vegetarian options.
FOUR BEST GLOW UPS
Avanzare Italian Dining Corner 21
Omo Japanese Soul Food
Sleepy Opossum Cafe
It’s been quite a year for local restaurants getting major upgrades. Avanzare Italian Dining moved out of its longtime (super-tiny) strip center storefront into a massive freestanding building. Corner 21 added a second location, this one much bigger and decorated with a fun and modern vibe. Omo Japanese Soul Food moved out of its spot in Chesterfield to another location in the same neighborhood, decorated with a cherry blossom theme. And finally, the Sleepy Opossum Cafe team outgrew sharing a space with The Royal and moved into an open storefront just down the block, to a space all their own. We’ve been thrilled to see these local favorites (some newer, some around for ages) evolve and grow— and keep serving up the good stu !
BEST LAGNIAPPE
Retro Metro
In my home state of Louisiana, we have a word for those unexpected, but o en welcome bonuses in life: lagniappe. Those warm cookies you get at a certain hotel’s check-in? That’s lagniappe. A complimentary amuse-bouche at your favorite restaurant? Lagniappe. Free samples at Costco? Also, lagniappe. A recent visit to Retro Metro surprised my husband and me with a trio of lagniappe that had me asking how soon is too soon to go back? Our drinks were accompanied by a complimentary mini charcuterie with the perfect combination of salty cheeses, savory meats and briny olives. My soup course arrived in time with impossibly flu y, lightly salted rolls, perfect for soaking up the final bits of creamy broth. Our final and favorite lagniappe was the plate of oven-fresh chocolate chip cookies served with the bill that made paying for dinner perfectly sweet. Cheers to more meals with lagniappe!—Katy St. Clair
BEST EATS FOR WHEN YOU
CAN’T AGREE
14 Mill Market
“What do you want for dinner?” “Whatever you want.” “Pizza?” “But we got that last week.” Gah, stop! You’ve been there. We’ve been there. This conversation is the worst. 14 Mill Market is a good solution here because the food hall is home to about 10 unique locally owned restaurants, each serving something di erent. There is Korean food, poke bowls, burgers, pizza and several more options, so everybody in your crew can find something they like.
BEST BEANS
The Co ee Ethic
The folks at The Co ee Ethic are serious about their co ee beans, and it shows. Their perfectly roasted blends are practically life-giving—whether you’re there for a simple cup of co ee or one of the always-inventive seasonal drinks.
BEST BREAKFAST WITH A VIEW
Steamy Joe Cafe
This absolutely bustling diner at the Bradford Inn overlooks a sweeping view of the Branson hills—so we recommend sitting by the back windows or out on the deck. And while you’re there, you have to try the Bradford French Toast, stu ed with cream cheese and topped with a homemade mixed berry compote and whipped cream.
BEST COOKIES. FULL STOP.
Pappo’s Pizzeria
When a dessert item has special instructions to order it before your meal, you know it’s about to be freshly baked—and you better order it. Take, for example, the Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies at Pappo’s. The browned butter and sea salt flakes elevate these classic treats, which are literally stu ed with a Ghiradelli chocolate center and baked in the restaurant’s pizza oven. They come to the table ooey-gooey and piping hot.
BEST COSMOPOLITAN EXPERIENCE
Ariake Sushi & Robata
It would be impossible to mention all the things that make a trip to Ariake feel like you’ve been transported to a big city. A few of our favorites: the vibe is tres chic, food is presented like a work of art, and you can get a true omakase meal that will knock your socks o .
BEST BOUNCE BACK
J.O.B. Public House
When J.O.B. Public House closed its doors a er the death of its beloved owner, Danny Schlink, so many mourned the loss of a uniquely Springfield place and person. We love the bounce-back J.O.B. had this past winter with its J. Ho Ho B. Christmas pop-up events, which felt like an explosion of holiday spirit and fun. The event drew crowds throughout the month of December, and we were so glad to see it!
BEST CLASSIC DINER FOOD Cafe B29
This little restaurant located just o Highway 65 in Ozark might look unassuming, but their diner fare is no joke. All of it is filling, indulgent and delish. The nostalgic eats like a Sloppy Joe or a grilled bologna sandwich are fun to order for a change of pace, and the burgers are reliably a sure bet. Try the brat burger, which is exactly what it sounds like: a bratwurst, sans casing and grilled up as a patty.
FOUR BEST REBRANDS AND EXPANSIONS
The European Mile 6 Taproom
One2Five Taproom
Schultz Pizza & Pub
For years, the owners of Rise and European Cafe operated the two restaurants in side-by-side storefronts in downtown Springfield. Late last year, they streamlined things. They closed European Cafe, moved all of its bakery items and co ee drinks into the Rise space next door, shortened the Rise menu, and renamed the whole thing The European. We love this for them and for us: They have one location to manage instead of two, and we can still get pretty little passionfruit cheesecakes anytime we want. As for Mile 6 Taproom (Willard) and One2Five Taproom (Rogersville), those are both new Springfield Brewing Company and Ty Iechyd Da Distillery outposts. The OG Springfield brewery has expanded into nearby cities with casual gathering places that combine both outdoor and indoor spaces. In fact, Mile 6 Taproom is located right by the Frisco Highline Trail for easy access to even more outdoor fun. And in the world of pizza, Schultz Pizza & Pub is the newly rebranded version of Schultz & Dooley’s, which changed its name, changed its branding look and revamped its menu. It’s been fun to see these brands we love find new ways to share their tasty fare with 417-land. High fives all around!
Best Restaurant at Feels Like Home
Nearly Famous Deli & Pasta House has a certain “everybody knows your name” vibe, and that’s thanks to owner Nancy Miller and the welcoming environment she has created in her Brentwood Shopping Center restaurant.
NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE IS A BUSTLING hotspot at lunch, when diners gather for the egg salad sandwich specials or the Reuben sandwich that owner Nancy Miller says she can never take o the menu. There might be a revolt. But the enduring popularity of this spot is about more than just the food. It’s about feeling at home when you visit.
Miller bought Nearly Famous Deli & Pasta House 19 years ago in February 2006. At the time, she was stepping into ownership of a dining institution that already been in business a full 30
years. It originally opened in 1976 in a location near Plaza Tower.
Just three and a half months later, a re caused the restaurant to close down, and three and a half months after that Miller re-opened it in its current location in the Brentwood Shopping Center. While the re was devastating, the restaurant’s newer location has a certain charm that makes diners feel at home. That’s partly due to warm brick walls, the original structural brick of the building, that lend a sense of history to the comfy, cozy space.
Since those early days, Miller has cultivated a Cheers-like atmosphere where guests feel welcomed and seen, and multiple generations of families have become regulars. Miller has gotten to know those regulars over the years and has been there with them to celebrate life’s big moments and its tragedies. She says she has catered beloved customers’ weddings and baby showers, and comforted others through the loss of a signi cant other. “I’ve had customers that have come in with their husband or wife, then they’ve lost them and they can’t come back in because it’s too hard,” Miller says. “Or they do come back in because this is their happy place and this brings back a great memory for them. It’s pretty amazing to feel that and be part of it.”
That support stretches out into the community too. Miller participates in a program that allows her to display pieces by local artists, and Miller chooses not to keep any commission from the sale of their work.
Miller’s restaurant is also packed with longtime employees. Donna Hawkins is a server who’s been there 35 years. Joe Slaughter has been on sta for 21 years. And Dan Brown is comparatively a newbie with his eight years at Nearly Famous; he makes the quiches that the restaurant sells out of every day.
Winning Category
Third Place Best Salads
Years Honored 2003, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2013, 2023, 2024, 2025
More Than Just a Place To Eat
For 35 years, GARBO’S PIZZERIA has been Spring eld’s go-to spot for delicious St. Louis-style pizza, award-winning salads and indulgent cakes. A family-owned business since its founding by Pam, Garbo’s is now proudly led by her daughter, Laine, who continues the tradition of serving the community with warmth and love.
Garbo’s is more than just a place to eat—it’s a place to gather. With its casual dining atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for family dinners, a night out with friends or a quick carry-out meal. Whether you’re enjoying the St. Louis style, crispy, thin-crust pizza or savoring a fresh, local salad (recently voted in the top three in Spring eld!), Garbo’s has something for everyone.
As a neighborhood staple, Garbo’s Pizzeria takes pride in giving back to the community that supported it from the very beginning. From fundraising events to local sponsorships, Garbo’s is dedicated to helping make Spring eld a better place for all.
Join us as we celebrate 35 Years of Local Love! With a full bar and a menu that’s sure to please every palate, Garbo’s Pizzeria continues to be a beloved Spring eld tradition. Come see why Garbo’s is so much more than a pizzeria—it’s family.
THE KEETER CENTER’S staff and students are honored to be recognized by the 417 community for their dedication and commitment to providing excellence in hospitality. “I am so proud of our students and staff for their commitment to providing world-class experiences for our guests,” says Kathyrn Williams, executive director of The Keeter Center.
The Keeter Center is situated on the scenic campus of College of the Ozarks and serves as a learning laboratory for students to study the art of hospitality. Students work 15 hours each week, plus one 40-hour work week within each semester, supporting the goal for each student to graduate debt-free.
Guests of The Keeter Center enjoy creations that infuse elements of products produced on campus, such as the cornmeal from the working grist mill utilized in the madefrom-scratch dinner rolls served with delicious whipped butter and student-made apple butter. Additionally, many culinary selections include fruit spreads and pepper jelly
made by College of the Ozarks students. Be sure to reserve your spot for dinner, served after 4 p.m. Guests are welcome on a walk-in basis for lunch service on Monday–Saturday, 10:30 am–4:00 pm, and dinner reservations are accepted after 4:00 pm, Monday–Saturday.
TURN THE PAGE TO FIND PIPING HOT DINING NEWS AND SOME EXTRADELICIOUS OZARKS EATS.
Taste is
ARE YOU READY TO DIG INTO THE YUMMIEST STUFF AROUND? LET’S EAT!
DIG IN!
A Cozy Corner Cafe
Recently, Sleepy Opossum Cafe ended its era of sharing a space with The Royal and moved into its own home just two doors down. We went to check out the restaurant’s expanded digs.
BY TESSA COOPER PHOTOGRAPHED
BY
BRANDON ALMS
Try Sleepy Opossum Cafe’s miso velvet cake topped with salted caramel and almond Swiss meringue buttercream.
Taste is
IF YOU GO TO SLEEPY Opossum Cafe’s new location on a Saturday morning, you’ll notice a lively energy. Due to its great food, charming atmosphere and prime location near the intersection of Cherry Street and Pickwick Avenue, it’s a popular brunch spot. Sunlight cascades in, diners are well ca einated and therefore extra chatty, and you’ll most likely have to wait a bit for your table and food.
In addition to the breakfast and lunch o erings, Sleepy Opossum recently experimented with dinner service that allowed us to experience the eatery in an entirely different way. The lighting was dimmer, there was a calm vibe and it was a bit easier to snag a spot.
One thing to note: Owner Danielle Hunnell has since changed her menu and is no longer o ering the dinner dishes we ate when we visited for this review. But if you visit for breakfast or lunch, you’ll nd unique dishes with the same creative spirit, like the luxe toasts and miso-infused cake that were photographed for this story.
For this review, my husband, Chandler, and I headed to Sleepy Opossum for an early dinner. The menu emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, and each dish is heavy on the vegetables. I was craving comfort food that evening, so I went with an order of chicken and dumplings. I absolutely loved the dumplings and actually ran out of them about midway through my meal. I was sad I didn’t pace myself, but the tender
local chicken and delectable and peppery cornmeal gravy still kept me satis ed with every bite. I was also impressed that the roasted carrots had a soft consistency. It came with some arugula and spinach, and the dressing was light and a tad sweet to cut through the bitterness.
1423 E. Cherry St., Ste. 101 913-730-6224
sleepyopossumcafe.com
instagram.com/sleepyopossumcafe $$
Chandler went with a Smothered & Buttered sandwich, and the real star of the show was the polenta rosemary sourdough it came on by La Mère Bakery. There are so many unexpected avors in this dish. The smoky apple jam lends some sweetness, the rosemary butter smear gives it an herbal avor, and the smashed white beans and charred pickled onions contrast well. However, the very best thing I tasted that evening was certainly the cake. It was a cornmeal apple butter with meringue cream frosting, and it was not too sweet. I’ve been a fan of Sleepy Opossum’s break-
fast o erings since back when they shared a space with The Royal. Since The Royal has such a beautiful atmosphere, I was happy to see that Hunnell put so much care into curating an equally adorable space of her own. There are many details to look at, and you can tell she poured many hours into picking paint colors, wallpaper and kitschy knick-knacks to display.
Overall, it’s evident that Sleepy Opossum is one big labor of love, and I’ll gladly keep coming back.
Sleepy Opossum Cafe’s dinner menu includes items like Apple Spice, The Spicy Gal, Not the Gumdrop Buttons Latte and Miso Velvet Cake.
BITESIZE REVIEW
Join the Club
On the last Sunday of every month, Good Spirits and Co. hosts Supper Club at its headquarters. We went to try out the deliciously delightful experience, and we can’t wait to go back.
BY TESSA COOPER
SPRINGFIELD IS RIPE WITH culinary talent. If I ever come across anyone who doubts that, I’ll send them straight to Good Spirits and Co.’s monthly Supper Club. This casual, intimate dinner highlights dishes made with love by pastry chef Kyle Davis, local tastemaker Angela Houska, mixologist Rogan Howitt and culinary renaissance woman Kayce Vandelicht.
I managed to snag tickets for the rst edition of Supper Club, and the dining series went o without a hitch. The evening began with a cocktail hour, and while they had a set cocktail menu for the night, I’ve found that no request is ever too bold to throw o the
Good Spirits crew. Since I was seven months pregnant, I asked Vandelicht to surprise me with a mocktail with bitter notes, and she brought me a refreshing creation.
Davis kicked the meal o with bread service and ended it with the most refreshing London fog ice cream with tangy-sweet lemon gelee. Howitt’s sweet tomato and corn slab pie was my favorite savory course, and it was still warm and steaming when it arrived at our table. The wild-caught salmon by Vandelicht was cooked to perfection, and Houska’s blistered shishito peppers went perfectly with the lemon aioli and Argentinian shrimp skewers. I only wish I could relive the exact meal again, but the eeting avors are half of what makes Supper Club so special.
Good Spirits and Co.’s monthly Supper Club includes a cocktail hour.
Love Potion No. 9
Go the extra mile this Valentine’s Day and prepare an extra-special cocktail for the extra-special person in your life.
BY TESSA COOPER
BY
PHOTO
KATY ST. CLAIR
IN THE KITCHEN
FOR SOME VALENTINE’S day cocktail inspiration, we spoke to Camry Cowan, who owns Miss Boston’s Cocktail Lounge along with his wife, Mesha. Both Camry and Mesha grew up in Republic, and
Be Mine
they wanted to create a venue in their hometown that offered craft cocktails and tasty food. With a chic atmosphere, Miss Boston’s has gained a reputation as a great spot for a date night, so Camry was the perfect person to tap for some at-home cocktail-making inspiration.
RECIPES TRENDING NOW
“Inspired by the iconic chocolate strawberry, the Be Mine combines the holiday’s most popular flavors,” says Cowan. “With some planning ahead, you can skip the box of chocolates and impress your Valentine with this clarified cocktail.”
Ingredients
1.5 ounce Cruzan Single Barrel Rum
1.5 ounce Tempus Fugit Crème de Cacao
0.75 ounce fresh lime juice
0.75 ounce Reàl strawberry puree syrup
3 dashes Angostura cocoa bitters
5 drops saline solution
0.75 ounce heavy cream
Instructions
1. To make the saline solution, combine 1 part salt with 4 parts water. Stir the mixture until the salt is completely dissolved.
2. The night before, pour the heavy cream into a clear container. In a separate container, combine and stir the rest of the ingredients. Pour the stirred mixture over the heavy cream. The lime juice will cause the cream to curdle, imbuing the rest of the drink with its flavor and texture. Let the curdled solution sit at room temperature at least 1 hour.
3. Line a fine mesh strainer with two paper filters, place the strainer over a clear bowl, and pour the curdled solution into the strainer. Watch the cocktail as it strains, and wait
until the drops begin to look clear. Then, move the strainer to a second bowl, and pour the liquid from the first bowl back into the strainer. Now, let the solution fully strain. The straining process may take some time, even a few hours.
4. Store the now-clarified cocktail in the fridge. To serve, pour it into a rocks glass and add ice. Garnish with fresh strawberries.
Roses are Red, Violets are Blue
“Everyone knows you are supposed to give your Valentine flowers, and this cocktail is the perfect companion for the bouquet you give this year,” says Cowan.
Ingredients
1 ounce Roku gin
0.75 ounce Creme de Violette
0.5 ounce Cointreau
1 ounce citric acid solution
0.25 teaspoon Fee Brothers rose water
1 dash Peychaud’s aromatic bitters
Instructions
1. To make the citric acid solution, combine 5 grams of citric acid with 95 grams of water, and stir until the acid is fully dissolved.
2. Combine all the cocktail’s ingredients in a mixing glass. Fill the glass 2/3 full of ice, and stir 30 to 50 times until chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass. Garnish with rose and violet petals.
Beautiful Bonbons
The phrase “sitting around eating bonbons” always sounded like a good time to us. Here’s where to get some of our tried-and-true favorites.
BY TESSA COOPER
The European
These bonbons get an A+ from us in the visuals and taste departments. Each heart- and lip-shaped bonbon is a work of art with splashes of color, and they are all sealed with a ribbon. Pre-order yours from theeuropean417.com.
Christopher Elbow Chocolates from Brown Derby Wine Center These bonbons hail from Kansas City, but you can find them locally at Brown Derby Wine Center. They stock these colorful bitesized delights in novel flavors like Aztec Spice.
Buttermilk
Head to The Royal and order the milk jam bonbons by pastry chef Kyle Davis of Buttermilk. These delicious desserts feature an Askinosie Chocolate exterior and a dreamy caramel filling.
Bacon Bison Burger
Dining Guide
OUR DINING GUIDE FEATURES A SELECT LIST OF RESTAURANTS IN THE Ozarks. The magazine’s editors recommend all these restaurants, and we don’t accept freebies in exchange for reviews or listings. Entries are updated often and appear based on space availability. Specially featured restaurants are chosen by editors in service to readers.
$ = less than $10, $$ = mostly $10–20, $$$ = $20 or more
Food hall. There are 10 restaurant concepts, plus the full-service Wisner Bar. Stop by for Korean barbecue bowls at The Gochu, sweets at Liege Love Wa e Co., tacos at No’cho Ordinary Taco, British pasties at London Calling and more. $–$$ L D d
650TAPAS
3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-8272777, tapas65.com
Spanish. Try small plates to share at this Spanishstyle spot. Dishes include things like burrata topped with mushrooms and marinated tomatoes, chargrilled oysters, charcuterie and lots more. $–$$$ D
ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Locations in Springfield and Branson bowlandybs. com. American fare. This is a great spot for a full night of fun plus food all in one building. The restaurant offers lane-side food service and a menu full of hearty fare like burgers, pizzas and more. $ L D
AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS
2144 E. Republic, Suite E120, Springfield, 417881-9736; aviarycafe.com Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes—which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there’s so much more besides crepes. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French flair.
$–$$ B L D d
BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL
3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3685919; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-7325077; 701 N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-7253777; bairsburgers.com Burgers. There are 22 appetizers and 50 burgers on the menu at Bair’s, plus plenty of non-burger sandwiches, great chicken wings and salads. We love the burger that is topped with ranch dressing and fried pickles. So indulgent and delicious! The sweet corn nuggets are also excellent. $ L D d
American. Visit this tasty, casual spot while you’re spending the day shopping and strolling around at Branson Landing. On the menu here are classically pleasing flavors, like the bacon cheeseburger (topped with a fried egg and served on a brioche bun) and meatloaf. We also love the seared ahi tuna salad. $$ L D d
BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES
Four Springfield locations; blaaacksheep.com
CAFE CUSCO
234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688088, cafecusco.com
Peruvian. This menu is packed with fun and unexpected dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the Andes Mountains. A few standouts: the black bean quinoa burger with avocado spread, the Lomo Saltado, and a host of delicious entrees. $$ L D d
CANYON GRILL RESTAURANT
BIG EASY
GRILL
3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040 Cajun. The jambalaya is fantastic, and we like to order it extra-spicy. The oyster po’boys are customer favorites, and the boudin (Cajun sausage) is not to be missed. $ L D dK
BIGSHOTS GOLF
1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-4273040, bigshotsgolf.com American. Come for the golf but stay for the good eats. There are great burgers (like the double smash burger with Hatch green chilis), pizza, wings and lots of apps.$$ BL D d
BIG WHISKEY’S
Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com American. Springfield’s go-to for bu alo chicken dip, burgers and the staple pub foods has locations spreading throughout the Midwest. Fans rave about the spin dip too—a cheesy concoction with spinach and a little bit of heat. Don’t miss the ever-popular burgers, including the pretzel burger with horseradish aioli, bacon and cheddar. $$ BL D d
Burgers. This swanky but comfortable burger joint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield Village and on East Sunshine Street. Chow down on the Good Yogi; two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and baaad sauce—house-made Thousand Island dressing. Vegetarian? Black Sheep has you covered with its Hippy Jen. $ L D
BLUE HERON FARM & BAKERY
206 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-701-1130
Farm-to-table. All of the freshly baked pastries and breads are amazing here. Try the galettes filled with loads of luscious lemon curd. On the savory side of things, we love the sausage roll served with pickles and whole-grain mustard and pickles. Many of the ingredients are from Blue Heron Farm and other local and regional producers. $ BL
If you have a foodie story idea, news about a local restaurant, or a correction to one of our Dining Guide listings, email our editorial team at yum@417mag.com.
at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org
American. Located on the grounds of Dogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon Grill Restaurant has a menu inspired by its surroundings. Try the bison burger made with bacon and caramelized onion. $–$$ L D d
CELLAR 417
15058 Business Highway 13, Branson West, cellar417.com
Bistro fare. With a great wine list and a huge deck overlooking the gorgeous Ozarks hills, this is a great spot to sip and eat with friends. A lot of the dishes have an Italian flare. Start with the hummus and whipped feta shareable to munch on with your friends, or order one of the entrees like cacio e pepe. $$–$$$ L D d
CELLAR+PLATE
2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-3681739, cellarandplate.wine Wine bar. At Cellar+Plate you can get exceptional wine and tasty food in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Customers love the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. And as you can probably guess from the name, Cellar+Plate has a great wine menu. $$ D d
CHATEAU GRILLE
415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-243-1777, chateauonthelake.com
Contemporary American. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Chateau Grille o ers gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake. The restaurant focuses on upscale, seasonal cuisine, flying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award-winning menu. $$$ BL D d
CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE
601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800
Contemporary American. What do you get when you combine a co ee shop, bar, cafe and liquor store?
Cherry Picker Package + Fare. There’s a small selection of sandwiches, soups and salads. We’re big fans of the To Brie or Not to Brie. $ BL D d
CIVIL KITCHEN & TAP
107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-501-8456, civilkitchenandtap.com
American. Specializing in upscale comfort food, Civil Kitchen and Tap draws inspo from Southern and Midwestern staples. Some favorite dishes are salmon with fruit pico de gallo, tasty salads and gigantic onion rings. $ BL D d
DERBY DELI
2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066
Bistro fare. Located inside Brown Derby International Wine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus board and more. We love the Martin’s salad, topped with oven-roasted chicken. The tarragon chicken salad is a forever favorite. And don’t miss the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham, President’s butter and Gruyere on a baguette. $ L D
DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT
at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-335-2777, bigcedar.com
American. Here you can enjoy a tasty meal with a view of Table Rock Lake. The entrees and apps change with the season and are always the perfect blend of rustic and upscale. Brunch on Sundays. $$–$$$ BL D d
DOBYNS DINING ROOM
1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu
American. College of the Ozarks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farmto-table quality. The Keeter Center also has a creamery that o ers delightful homemade ice creams and sorbets. The extensive brunch bu et on Sundays is excellent. $$ BL D d
American. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour House’s musttry dishes include the giant Bavarian pretzel appetizer, the queso-smothered tamales and the blackened mahi mahi entree. Don’t miss the wagyu burgers. $–$$ L D
FARMERS GASTROPUB
2620 South Glenstone Avenue, Springfield, 417-864-6994, farmersgastropub.com
Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and changes regularly. Perennial faves include the Scotch eggs, the burgers and the fish and chips, which are always delicious. On a nice day, sit outside on the patio. $$ BL D d
FIRE & ICE
2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8665253, oasisfireandice.com Global cuisine. This spot (located inside Oasis Hotel & Convention Center) specializes in dry-aged steaks and certified Angus beef and has a delicious menu that changes with the seasons. Be sure to try the Fire & Ice Whiskey Burger with a Maker’s Mark whiskey glaze and crispy fried onions. Sit at the bar for a unique experience: You can watch cooks in the open kitchen while resting your drink on the ice bar.
$$ L D d
FUEL FRESH
AMERICAN GRILL
3405 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-3371786, facebook.com/ FuelFreshAmericanGrill American. A er you work up an appetite racing go-carts at Tracks Family Fun Park, head to Fuel to fuel up. They serve hearty fare like barbecue nachos, poutine, a couple of loaded burgers, entree salads and more. Don’t miss the smoked whole chicken wings with Black Rifle co ee rub, and try the cinnamon-sugar pretzel with chocolate dipping sauce.
$–$$ L D d
THE GARRISON
at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com
Shareable fine dining. Located beneath the Ozark Mill at Finley Farms, The Garrison features a dark and moody speakeasy vibe, a fine dining menu and a beautiful riverside patio. Try the mini pot roast, the forest panzanella salad or the delightful rosemary pound cake. Be sure to order one of the delicious cocktails—especially the refreshing Mill Pond that goes great alongside all the dishes we tried. $$$ D d
THE GROTTO
301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-886-9600 gogrotto.com
West Coast–style
American. The menu is accessible to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. The super-indulgent warm blue cheese chips are a favorite appetizer. Customers like the burgers (especially the burger topped with lots of tangy blue cheese). One of our favorite is the grilled salmon sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries. Also try the black bean burger. $ L D d
HACKETT HOT WINGS
520 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-625-1333, hacketthotwings.com
American. The wings at Hackett Hot Wings are fantastic. There are 13 hot wing flavors (ranging from tame barbecue sauce to super-fiery hot sauces that pack a huge punch). But we’re partial to the hot and honey sauce. $ L D
HARVEST RESTAURANT
8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville, 417-8303656, harvestmo.com
Farm-to-table. Dining at Harvest Restaurant is an experience like none other in 417-land. Owners, Craig and Tamara Von Foerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper-seasonal, local cuisine. The menu is always in flux depending on what is in-season. Our tip: Order whatever seafood option is currently on the menu. $$$ D d
HOULIHAN’S
2431 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8627777; houlihans.com
American. The fish tacos and burgers are fantastic, and we love the enormous nachos appetizer along with the vast salad selection. When the weather is nice, get a table on the patio, where you can gather around a fire pit during your meal. $–$$ L D d
HY-VEE
Two Springfield locations, hy-vee.com
American and more. HyVee is a great place to find something for every member of your family—even the picky ones! You have a hibachi grill, a pizzeria, hearty comfort food, sushi, Chinese dishes and Wahlburgers burgers.
$–$$ B L D
LA HABANA VIEJA
220 East Commercial Street, Springfield, 417-771-5723, la-habana-vieja.com
Cuban. Find great mojitos and a menu full of Cuban fare. Try the ropa vieja, Cuba’s national dish of beef brisket, rice and veggies. You can also get an appetizer of yucca fries. $$–$$$ L D
MAMA G’S KITCHEN
2463 W. Sunshine St., Ste. 124; 210 S. Market, Ste. 124; Springfield; mamagkitchen.com
Southern. Mama G’s Kitchen started out with a spot at Metro Eats (the Sunshine Street location). Now, they’ve added a second outpost (the Market St. location). Come here for comforting dishes like fried pork chops, catfish, meatloaf and more. Sides are great too, with options like collard greens and cheesy potatoes. $$ L D
METROPOLITAN GRILL
2931 East Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com
Eclectic fine dining. Known for its delectable flash-fried spinach, this restaurant specializes in steaks and seafood. The salads are fresh and delicious. And we love that the menu is always changing, giving us something new to be excited about. The cocktails are delicious, the wine menu is wonderful and the service is topnotch. $$$ D d
MUNDOS LATIN KITCHEN & BAR
5493 N. 17th St., Ozark, 417-485-2160, mundoslatinkitchen.com
Latin. The menu here features dishes from many Latin cuisines, including Mofongo (mashed plantains with chicarron), lomo saltado, tostones, street tacos and more. We love the jicama taco filled with coconut shrimp. $$ L D
NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE
2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8833403, nearlyfamous.net Deli and Italian. Regulars love the weekly specials: egg salad on Fridays, pear sandwiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastict. It’s hopping at lunchtime, and the dinner hours o er a menu filled with tasty pasta dishes. $$ BL D
NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY
1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417-720-4162; neighborsmill.com Deli and bakery. This full time bakery o ers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches, soups and salads. Don’t miss the honey pecan chicken salad, which comes on Bronze honey wheat bread, or the Reuben, which comes on pumpernickel rye bread.
$ BL D
THE ORDER
at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-832-1515, theordersgf.com
New American. The atmosphere is trendy but relaxed while the food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from-scratch kitchen. Try Executive Chef Calvin Davis’s spin on cashew chicken or the market fish specials that change daily. Brunch is excellent here too. $$–$$$ D
OSAGE RESTAURANT
at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-2256343, topo herock.com
American fine dining. Take in beautiful views from the dining room at Osage Restaurant, located at Top of the Rock, and enjoy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The fried chicken is stellar, and the cocktails menu always o ers created and delicious options. Downstairs is the End of the Trail wine cellar with a wine tasting bar and whiskey room. Reservations are recommended. Collared shirts are recommended a er 5 p.m. $$$ B D
Farm-to-table. Inside the beautifully restored Ozark Mill, you can order upscale farm-to-table meals that are made with ingredients grown right at Finley Farms or produced in their onsite apiary. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters appetizer made with artichoke, sausage, mozzarella and served over a pickled pepper aioli. We also love the Chicken & Dumplins made with cornbread gnocchi and the gem lettuce salad. $$–$$$ L D d
PALM & PADDLE GRILLE
2515 S. Campbell Ave., Ste. 400, Springfield, 417605-7500, palmandpaddlegrille.com
Caribbean. Everything has an island flair here. The coconut shrimp is a must-try, and so is the mango-habanero chicken. Their tasty jerk chicken is a filling option fro the tiki tacos, along with jerk shrimp and carne asada. Bonus: If you can’t decide what you want, you can go for an Island Combination. $$–$$$ L D d
PIER 28 PIZZA & GRILL
344 Nautical Circle, Kimberling City, 417-5271580, pier28pizzagrill.com
American. Come for lakeside views and a menu filled with pizza, burgers, tacos and more. If you love fried pickles, get an order of the spicy pickle chips to share. Check website for seasonal hours. $$ L D
QUEEN CITY SOUL KITCHEN
1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-3798614, facebook.com/ QueenCitySoulKitchen Soul food. The menu changes from week to week here, but the o erings are always delicious. Find comforting fare like meatloaf, fried chicken wings, smothered pork chops and more. Make sure you leave room for peach cobbler or bread pudding. $–$$ L D
REBAR KITCHEN & TAP ROOM
2902 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-5974569, rebar-taproom.com.
American. This spot features elevated takes on taproom fare. A few menu highlights include charbroiled oysters, duck bacon wontons, pizza, wings and more. There are several burgers, like the Hoglager BBQ Burger topped with bacon, onion strings, cheese and Yuenglinginfused barbecue sauce. $$ BL D
RED ONION CAFÉ
204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe.com
American and Italian The Tuxedo Chicken is a customer favorite. Diners also love the bacon-wrapped shrimp, the blackened tuna sandwich or Dave’s fried chicken salad. Try the BLT&A. (The A stands for avocado… yum!) There’s even a section of the menu with keto-friendly options. $$ L D
RETRO METRO
2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7201708, eatretrometro.com
Contemporary American
This throw-back concept brings back decades of old Metropolitan Grill favorites and quite a few brand-new flavors too from owner Chef Tiny. The aptly named Retro Metro serves some of Metropolitan’s greatest hits, including flash-fried spinach and chicken spiedini. But there are original items on the menu as well, from Chef Tiny himself. During happy hour, come in fro wagyu sliders, crab cake sliders and more. Dishes are available via drive-thru, too. $$$ D
SPLIT SOCIAL KITCHEN
3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7557155, splitspringfield.com American. Come for creative and beautifully prepared shareables and hearty entrees, all served a teeny restaurant space that packs a lot of good vibes. We love the amazing macaroni and cheese (get fried chicken with it as your optional protein). The menu changes with the seasons, but recently we’ve loved the Ooo Mami Tacos filled with seared sashimi-grade tuna. $$ L D
ST. MICHAEL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE
301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315 American. The burgers are top-notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken breast are a favorite (try the one with spicy Cajun chicken—yum!). Come hungry enough to order dessert because the cakes are stellar. Our favorite is the dreamy banana cake (nothing can beat it!) but the blueberry-lemon is a very close second. If you need to feed a crowd, their Italian catering options are huge, a ordable and never disappoint. $–$$ L D
TEA BAR & BITES
621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417-866-7500, teabarandbites.com.
Bistro fare. Everything we’ve tasted at Tea Bar & Bites has been fantastic. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, flaky crust. We love any dishes that have a Mediterranean flair. The menu features plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options. $ BL D d
VAN GOGH’S EETERIE
334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie.com
Indo-Dutch. Dutch pancakes, chicken witlof and other Indo-Dutch and Dutch-inspired cuisine populate the menu at this Commercial Street hotspot from Joe Gidman of Cafe Cusco. We love the pancakes—especially the Farm Near Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme.
$$ BL D
VOLLEYBALL BEACH OZARK
1198 State Highway NN, Ozark, 816-838-1664, volleyballbeachozark.com
American. But did you know you can play volleyball and grab dinner and drinks too? They o er chicken wings with several sauce options, a few types of pizza, burgers and more. $–$$ D
BARBECUE
BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ
2002 South Campbell Avenue, Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com
Diners love the ribs and the burnt ends at this classic barbecue eatery. We can’t get enough of the killer smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. And don’t miss the fried jalapeño bottle caps. $ L D d
Coffee in a Flash
Next time you’re out and about on the southside and need a little extra pep in your step, there’s a new way to curb your ca eine craving real quick. Architect Co ee Co.’s new drive-thru location (1300 E. Battle eld Rd.) is o cially up, running and slinging espresso from 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. As far as the menu goes, they’re serving all the same beverages as their Republic Road location. However, the food menu is a bit slimmer, primarily with bagels and egg bites up for grabs. On the topic of getting Architect Co ee in a ji y, you can also order ahead of time for pickup at the Republic Road location through the shop’s app.
CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE
3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7201113, citybutchersgf.com
At this Texas-style barbecue spot, the meat is smoked in small batches for optimal freshness. Killer brisket, pulled pork and other favorites are o ered with a few simple but delicious side dish options. The smokehouse beans are delish, and the smoked chocolate chip cookies are super-fun. $–$$ L D d
CROSSTOWN BBQ
1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646
Try the ribs or the brisket. The Big Pappa Dinner is a signature dish, and it features tons of meat including ribs, brisket and hot links. We loved the smoked chicken salad for something that feels healthy and indulgent at the same time. $–$$ L D
GETTIN’ BASTED
2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com
Come here for award-winning barbecue in all your favorite varieties: brisket, ribs, pulled pork and more. The seven wagyu burgers on the menu are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong with homemade pimento cheese. $–$$ L D
THE BRUNCHEONETTE
424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net
We love the creative takes on eggs Benedict that we’ve found at The Bruncheonette, whose menu changes weekly but is always interesting. Don’t miss your chance to order a plate of poutine, handcut fries topped with gravy, shredded cheese and a poached egg. $ BL
EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST PUB
1717 E. Cherokee St., Springfield, 417-885-8088
HEADY BAR-B-QUE CO.
573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq.com
This spot specializes in Kansas City–style barbecue. Among stellar ribs, brisket and more perfectly prepared meats, you can find unexpected dishes with a barbecue spin: nachos, salads, a burrito. $–$$ L D
PAPPY’S PLACE
943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744
Be sure not to miss the pork spare ribs with Pappy’s barbecue sauce or the barbecue nachos at this Springfield institution. We’ve heard Pappy’s sells the very coldest beer in town. $ L D
BREAKFAST
BILLY GAIL’S CAFE
5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com
Billy Gail’s in Branson has been a beloved breakfast hotspot for ages, and it’s still going strong. The Ozark spot and has become just as popular. Come for massive pancakes and other breakfast fare. The Ozark location serves dinner on the weekends. $ BL D
This spot serves up creative breakfast fare and has a full-service bar churning out breakfast margaritas and the ilk. Bonus: Those breakfast margs are made with orange marmalade. Don’t miss the tacos. $ BL d
FIRST WATCH
2946 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8890601; 3103 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-6337094; firstwatch.com
Go traditional with a plate piled with crispy bacon, eggs and toast. Or order something more creative. At First Watch you can find breakfast power bowls (like the one filled with quinoa, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, kale and eggs), lemon-ricotta pancakes, avocado toast, a superfood bowl with chia pudding and lots more. $ BL
GAILEY’S BREAKFAST CAFÉ
220 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-5500
The sweet potato hash browns are super-delish here We also love The Bear Hug: biscuits and gravy, choice of meat, two eggs and either hash browns or sweet browns. Gailey’s is known for its breakfast, but the restaurant also has a tasty lunch menu worth trying when you visit a little later in the day. $ BL
Hours: Tues–Sat
Lunch: 11:00am–1:30pm
Dinner: 5:00pm–9:00pm
Savor the soul of Cuba at La Habana Vieja! Relish authentic dishes and dance the night away at our electrifying Latin Dance Nights every last Saturday of the month!
0 . Commerical St., Springfield 417-771-5723 | la-habana-vieja.com
JW’S KITCHEN
2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997
This brunch spot comes from the owners of Farmers Gastropub, Andy and Misty Hampshire. It features excellently prepared favorites and some fun surprises. You can get biscuits with chocolate gravy (a southern American favorite), a full English breakfast (black sausage included) and lots more. $$ BL
THE EUROPEAN
105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-986-4646, theeuropean417.com
The pastries are picture-perfect and taste just as good as they look. The cardamom buns are luxurious comfort food. And the breakfast and lunch dishes are inventive and superbly executed. We love the mousse cakes and the shakshuka. $ BL d
SLEEPY
OPOSSUM CAFE
1423 E. Cherry St., Springfield, Ste. 101, 913-730-6224, sleepyopossumcafe.com
This darling spot serves creative, classic and always delicious breakfast fare. We are obsessed with their hashbrown quiches, and the homemade biscuits topped with everything seasoning are to die for. Any baked sweet is a dream here too, especially the creative cakes. $ BLD
CHINESE
BAO BAO CHINESE BISTRO
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite A104, Springfield, 417-877-7505
Try the salt-and-pepper pork, the veggie-filled wonton soup, or the jiaozi dumplings. Or bring your appetite and tuck into a hot pot filled with seafood, tofu and more. $ L D
CHINESE CHEF
3029 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8834770, facebook.com/ chinesechefcampbell; 1731 S. Enterprise Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2433
Your favorite Chinese dishes are on the menu, like Kung Pao chicken, madefrom-scratch cashew chicken, crab rangoon and egg rolls. Both locations o er a drive-thru. $ L D
CORNER 21
1730 E. Republic Road, Ste. A, Springfield, 417-771-5666, corner21sgf.com
This restaurant’s menu o ers a large variety of authentic Chinese dishes, including several Szechuan-style meals. You’ll even find dishes that aren’t common on local Chinese restaurant menus, such as braised pork belly with rice noodles, ribeye and enoki mushrooms in a curry broth, crispy fried pumpkin, spicy Szechuan fish and so much more. We loved everything we tried, especially the pork buns. $ L D d
LEONG’S ASIAN DINER
1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-887-7500
The Leong family serves its original cashew chicken at this tasty eatery, among lots of other yummy stu . The crab Rangoon are delicious here, and we like to dip them in the spicy mustard sauce. The egg rolls are a classic, made from scratch with a peanut butter flair. $–$$ L D
TRIPLE EIGHTS
1710 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-832-8889
While you can find Springfield Chinese favorites like cashew chicken on the menu at Triple Eights, you can also dig into more traditional Chinese fare. The mapo tofu is a must try. The Sichuan Maocai stew is worth a taste too. $ L D
COFFEE SHOP FARE
ARCHITECT COFFEE
1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715030; 1300 E. Battlefield; architectco eeco.com
This co ee shop on Springfield’s south side o ers a bright and cozy atmosphere with warm drinks and hearty food, to boot. The breakfast burritos are stellar and so filling. We love the seasonal drinks. Battlefield Road location is drive-thru only.
$ B L D
BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR
217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8659911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-868-4157; bigmommasco ee.com
This spot o ers co ee, espresso and blended frappes. But there is more on the menu than just drinks. Be sure to try the super-delicious sandwiches that are served here, too. $ B L D d
THE BLACK LAB COFFEE CO.
545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook. com/theblacklabllc
This casually canine-inspired co ee stop is Republic’s place to be for a piping hot Labbuccino. The shop serves full lunch and breakfast menus too. Indulge in a Nutella toast with strawberries along with your brew. $ B L
CAFE CUBANO
3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8877777, facebook.com/ countrygirlsespresso
Aside from all of the delicious co ee drinks, the real must-try item here is the authentic Cuban sandwich, served pressed on Cuban bread. Cafe Cubano’s’ signature is its Cafe Con Leche with scalded milk. $ B L D
CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE
1900 West Sunset Street, Springfield, 417-881-7625, classicrockco ee.com
This co ee shop o ers espresso drinks with rock ‘n’ roll–inspired names. Try the Sweet Emotion latte (with chocolate and caramel) and a ham and cheese pu pastry breakfast pocket to start your day. $ B L D d
THE COFFEE ETHIC
124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-8666645, theco eeethic.com
Try the single-origin co ee or any of the creative and delicious seasonal drinks. The food game here is strong too, with loaded oatmeal, freshly baked mu ns and more. We love the bottled lattes too. $ d
DANCING MULE
COFFEE COMPANY
1945 South Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-5114, dancingmuleco ee.com
The mochas are great here—chocolatey but not too sweet. Dancing Mule also does a really good authentic cappuccino that’s made just right. Try the Peanut Butter Fandango Frappe if you’re in the mood for something a little more funky, and if you’re on the run, swing through the drive-thru. $ B
ECHELON COFFEE
2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-3742739, echelonco ee.com
This sunny co ee shop (with a drive-thru!) has excellent espresso drinks, drip co ee, pour-over and more. The cortado is always well done. And we love The Formation (espresso with vanilla, cinnamon and honey) prepared as a frappe when we’re feeling indulgent. Don’t miss the delish breakfast and lunch fare too. $ B L D d
Habanero’s Mexican Restaurant + Cantina has become a local favorite, expanding to multiple locations across the Ozarks. pe ience ib ant a o s, festi e a biance, and authentic Mexican cuisine!
Carthage, Springfield, Republic, Coming Soon to Joplin habanerosmexicancantina.com
EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE
445 E. Commercial St., 417-720-1949, culturecstreet.com
This co ee roaster with a mission also serves some tasty fare in its Culture Cafe. In addition to carefully cra ed cups of co ee, there are excellent lunch items. We love the miso caramel latte. $ BL D d
KINGDOM COFFEE
211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-3501234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf.com
The menu features classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos and more. We love the classic cortado the most, and the not-too-sweet and super-creamy iced matcha latte. $ BL D d
MUDHOUSE COFFEE
323 South Avenue, Suite B, Springfield, 417-832-1720, mudhouseco ee.com
The co ee is always fantastic here, at Springfield’s OG downtown co ee shop. Plus, Mudhouse also o ers a wide variety of loose-leaf teas. The baked goods are delish. $ BL D
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. Juices are cold-pressed, and we love the veggie-packed bowls. The real draw here is the Mexican-Korean fusion menu, featuring gogi nachos, kimchi fried rice and street tacos. $ BL D d
URBAN GROUNDS COFFEE & PLANT LAB
5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, urbangrounds417.com
Try classics like lattes or a botanical latte. When you’re hungry, munch on one of the loaded toasts. In the plant lab, you can buy a plant and a pot and then put them together while you sip a co ee. $ BL
The menu includes classic co ee and tea o erings plus super-sized suped-up toasts (the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious). We love The Workshop Shake, a shaken iced latte with vanilla bean syrup, cinnamon and honey. $ BL d
FRESH NEW EATS
New Eats in Ozark
Downtown Ozark is such a picturesque place to be during the holidays, and it recently became even more charming. Lolli’s O the Square (206 N. 1st St, Ozark) is the newest addition to the area, and this eatery looks like the perfect lunch stop for soup, salads, sandwiches and barbecue. Lolli’s is a sister business to Pop’s Smoke Shack in Branson West, and both businesses are named after what the owners’ grandkids call them (how cute!). If you’re a Pop’s fan, you’ll be happy to know that Lolli’s serves brisket and pulled pork sandwiches. We’re personally excited to try the build-your-own sandwich option or one of the daily o -menu specials.
DELIS
J. PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI
1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8871148, queencitydeli.com
This spot serves up pasta, soups, salads and some super-delicious sandwiches. Don’t miss The Burnes (beef tenderloin on garlic bread) or the Italian beef sandwiches (order them wet to get plenty of luscious jus). You can’t go wrong with the pastrami sandwich. $ L D
MYTHICAL ‘WICH
113 E. Main St., Branson, mythicalwich.com
This sandwich shop comes from the owners of another Branson favorite: Gettin’ Basted. It o ers a selection of bold lunch and breakfast sandwiches, like the Holy Hand Grenade topped with pastrami hash and a fried egg. $ BLD
THE SUB SHOP
1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-8873804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318077
The Fighter Pilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, banana peppers, lettuce and sub sauce. Be sure to try the sandwich specials (also known as the secret sandwiches); they are always delish. $ L d
DESSERTS
ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD
Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com
Frozen treats. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings. There are several sundae and concrete options, plus root beer floats and more. Or you can order your own creation. We like a sundae with raspberries, pecans and marshmallow flu . $ d
HURTS DONUT
1231 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-3680279; 1580 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-5983474; wannahurts.com Donuts. Outside-the-box toppings cover these super-delicious doughnuts, available 24 hours a day. A customer favorite is the maple-bacon bar, a huge, salty-sweet concoction that is oh-so-delish. $
LUCKY CAT BOBA TEA & TAIYAKI
3424 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-351-3136 Boba tea. There is a he y menu of bubble tea options plus sweet snacks like mitarashi dongo skewers, red bean–filled mochi, and darling slices of cake. The taiyaki are fish-shaped wa e-like cakes with tasty fillings that come in a variety of flavors like sweet red bean. If you want something savory, try the porkfilled steamed buns. $
MAIN STREET POPS
110 E. Main St., Branson, 417-973-5002, mainstreetpopsbranson.com Ice pops. This sweet and creative little ice pop shop in downtown Barnson let’s you customize your sweet treat. You pick the pop flavor you like most, then you choose which dips and toppings you want to add to fancy it up. Or if you’re indecisive, you can pick one of “signature” pops, like the Almond Joy. $ L D
PRAIRIE PIE
307 S. Je erson Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com Pie and cookies. Prairie Pie makes all-butter-crust pies in flavors that range from classic to inventive. Any of owner Eleanor Taylor’s pies made with rhubarb are superb. The caramel apple pie is an elevated take on a classic. Stop by the storefront for other o erings as well, such as savory pot pies and delish mashed potatoes. $–$$
SOCIETEA
1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7204094, facebook.com/ societea.
Boba tea. Bubble tea is the name of the game at this spot where the matcha milk tea is a must-try. We love that you can customize the sweetness level of your drinks and top them with options we don’t see o en at other boba tea spots (like big pieces of co ee jelly, or creamy cheese foam). $
ST.
GEORGE’S DONUTS
Multiple locations in Springfield and Ozark, stgeorgesdonuts.net
Donuts. Lots of luscious doughnuts are made fresh daily here. We love the glazed blueberry and the oh-so-fresh chocolate cake donuts. The cinnamon twist is the perfect companion to a hot cup of co ee. $ d
DINERS
BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND
1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291
Burgers. Billy Bob’s is an institution serving delicious sweets and tasty American food on the strip in Branson. There are 24 flavors of fried pies here, cheeseburgers (pro tip: top them with grilled onions), foot-long hot dogs and more. $ L D
CASPER’S
937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-2277377, caspersdiner.com
Chili. This local favorite is filled with bright colors and a kitschy vibe that’s both Casper’s-familiar and also brand new. The spot serves overflowing bowls of great chili and a few other yummy diner options (like burgers). $ BL D
DRUFF’S
331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-7191719, yumdru s.com
Grilled cheese. Dru ’s brings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses, soups and creative sides. For a little heat, try the Good Doctor, made with cheddar, cream cheese, bacon and jalapeño. Dru ’s also o ers a robust brunch and breakfast menu. $ L D
RED’S GIANT HAMBURG
2301 W. Sunshine St., Springfield Burgers. A revival of the Route 66 staple (the original Red’s is rumored to be the country’s first drivethrough restaurant), this diner serves stacked high griddle burgers served with fries or onion rings. Order them with a malt or milkshake, or come for breakfast. $ BL 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 Branson strip to indulge in some tasty Indian fare. We loved the karahi lamb (lamb, bell peppers and onion in a spicy sauce) and the vegetarian mushroom aloo matar $$ L D
NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR
3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050
Find all your favorite classic Indian dishes. Try the gol gappay. We love the ras malai dessert: homemade cheese in a sweet, milky, cardamom-infused sauce.
$$ L D
TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT
1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573
There is a variety of naan bread (and it’s so, so so and perfect), many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts like rice pudding and gulab jamun (donuts soaked in syrup). We are obsessed with the lamb rogan josh and the chicken jalfrezi. $$ L D d
ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE
311 South Je erson Avenue, Springfield, 417-351-4400, zaykaspringfield.com
The vegetable korma, chicken tikka masala and malai ko a are just a few of our favorite dishes. For dessert, you can’t beat a bowl of warm gulab jamun, sweet pastry balls in a yummy syrup. The lunch bu et is also tasty on the days when it’s o ered.
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Taste is Dining Guide
ITALIAN
AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING
3240 South Fremont Avenue, Springfield, 417-567-3463, avanzareitaliandining.com
Pasta is always a hit at Avanzare, a longtime Springfield favorite. Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak or the frutti de mar pasta. $$$ L D d
BAMBINO’S CAFÉ
1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417862-9999; 2810-D
E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8814442; bambinoscafe.com
This little Italian eatery serves hearty helpings of tasty Italian fare that won’t break the bank. One fave: the portobello mushroom ravioli with a to-die-for sauce. The side salads here are so fresh. The Delmar location is currently being remodeled. $ L D d
BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007
The bucatini with panchetta, chili oil and basil is a must-try pasta dish. Get it with the arugula salad with pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. Also on the menu is pizza, wagyu steak and lots of excellent entree options. $$$ D
GILARDI’S
820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-6400, gilardisonwalnut.com
Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little Italian restaurant that makes a wonderful date-night spot. Don’t miss the meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce that are served over a bed of creamy goat cheese polenta. $$$ D d
NICOLA’S RISTORANTE
3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-886-3700, nicolasspringfield.com
This restaurant serves a delicious sea bass. Try the lumache: fresh snails sauteed in garlic butter and baked with Parmesan cheese. Gluten-free pasta and pizza are available. The chicken parmigiano is a highlight definitely worth ordering. The Nicola’s pizza here is also super tasty, and the dessert menu is impressive. $$–$$$ D d
NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ
306 South Avenue, Springfield, 417-831-1222, nonnascafe.net. The seafood lasagna is a must-try dish, and the spicy arrabbiata lasagna is crazy-good. The Tuscan pappardelle ragu is excellent, and the pesto linguine is a delight. Plus, the homemade cheesecakes are top-notch. $$ L D
PICCOLO
107 West Aldersgate Drive, Suites 1 and 2, Nixa, 417-374-7291, eatpiccolo.com
When you’re craving indulgent Italian fare, Piccolo delivers with a range of piled-high pastas, pizzas, steak and chicken entrees. Start things o with the Italian Nachos (fried wonton chips, homemade Alfredo sauce and toppings). $–$$ L D d
SALVATORES FRESH RISTORANTE ITALIANO
1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them making the fresh pasta—you can see it from the dining room. The menu also boasts everything from a fried artichokes appetizer to a Tuscan T-bone steak entree, plus pizzas and more. $–$$ L D d
JAPANESE
ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA
1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd
This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai o ers excellent nigiri and sashimi, as well as small plates and tapas. You have to try the delicious tuna cigars. For dessert, the matcha crème brûlée is our favorite. Be sure to order from the excellent sake menu.
$$–$$$ L D d
CRAFT SUSHI
251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417319-5887, facebook.com/ cra sushi
At Cra Sushi, you’re in control of your meal as you customize your own sushi and poke bowls. And the best part: It won’t break the bank. Try a salad bowl topped with marinated tofu, asparagus, mushrooms, jalapenos, edamame and spicy wasabi sauce. It’s our favorite! Anything with the raw salmon or the spicy pork is always a hit. $$ L D
HARUNO JAPANESE
SUSHI BAR
3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com
The Oh My God roll and the Sex and the City roll are trademarks here. If simple nigiri is your style, you’ll love the tuna sampler. Be sure to venture o the sushi menu and try some of the delectable entrees as well. $$–$$$ L D d
HINODE JAPANESE
STEAKHOUSE
4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777
Hinode is known for hibachi meals with perfectly cooked proteins and all the extras: rice, stir fry noodles, veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. And don’t miss the sushi. $$ L D
KAI
306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8320077, kaia erdark.com
This lounge-like restaurant in downtown Springfield has fantastic sushi. Don’t miss the restaurant’s black cod or sea bass entrees with delicious wasabi risotto. They are just as impressive as the sushi rolls! $$–$$$ L D
KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL 640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225
The Karai Ramen with a flavorful and spicy housemade broth is incredible, and we like to get it with pork and a seasoned so -boiled egg added. For something lighter, the naked ramen with sesame noodles, spinach, wood ear mushrooms, bean sprouts, seaweed and lime is a highlight. $ L D
NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE
2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8817171, nakato.com
Performance-style hibachi dining is what Nakato is known for. And they are super-good at it! A little entertainment plus a great meal. All of the sushi is top-notch here as well. Don’t miss the Jenny Roll, a favorite. For an appetizer, try the bacon-wrapped scallops, the agedashi tofu or the seafood tempura. $$ L D
NIJI SUSHI
3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417-851-1707
In addition to a large variety of sushi rolls (we love the Cherry Blossom Roll and the Spicy Yummy Roll), this menu also boasts rainbow-bright cocktails and seven types of ramen soups. Come with friends so you can share and sample lots of rolls. For dessert, try the flu y Japanese cheesecake. $$ L D
OMO JAPANESE SOUL FOOD
2215 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield
The ramen and udon soups are some of the tastiest items on the menu here, and they come with lots of fun toppings. We like to order it with spicy broth and either chasu pork or chicken katsu for the protein. There are also sushi rolls, bento boxes, takoyaki and more. $$ L D
SAKURA
3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000
There’s a solid sushi menu (the Sam’s Roll never disappoints if you like a roll with a lot going on), and you can order a sushi donburi box to really get some bang for your buck if you prefer to keep your sushi meals simple and refreshing. The bento boxes are great too, packed with an entree, California roll, rice, salad, miso soup, fruit, spring rolls, veggie tempura and ice cream. $$ L D
SUSHI VILLAGE
1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8901016, facebook.com/ springfieldsushivillage
This cozy sushi spot has a warm date-night atmosphere with cherry blossoms and plants around every corner. All the sushi is flavorful. $$ L D
KOREAN
BAWI KOREAN BBQ
4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8862777, bawikbbq.com
Bawi Korean BBQ brings an authentic Korean dining experience to Springfield, where you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 for an all-you-caneat meal. You cook the meat yourself on tabletop grills, and you get fun sides too. Keep an eye out for Korean-style fried chicken, which is sometimes offered on special. $$ D
GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT
1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093
This spot serves up delicious and authentic Korean food. The beef bulgogi and dolsot bibimbap are best sellers here. We also love the fried dumplings and kimbop. Try the tasty kimchi fried rice. If you’re in the mood for something really comforting on a cold day, opt for the kimchi chigae. $ L D
KORIYA
4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077
This spot serves createyour-own bibimbap dishes, and you can choose between chicken, beef bulgogi, tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the japchae, made with slippery and sweet stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies—it’s fun to eat and so satisfying. $ L D d
MEDITERRANEAN
CRAVE MEDITERRANEAN CAFE
1111 E. Republic Road, Ste. 164, Springfield, 417306-9749, cravemediterraneancafe.com
There’s so much good stu on the menu here; shareable dips like hummus and baba ganoush, shawarma, kabob, gyros, falafel and more. Don’t miss the flaming cheese appetizer. $$–$$$ L D
GREEK BELLY
320 E. Walnut St., 417597-3382, greekbelly.com
We love everything we’ve tasted here! Our favorite is the loukaniko wrap. It’s an orange-spiced pork sausage served in a pita with spicy feta dip, fresh veggies and French fries. For dessert, don’t miss the truly to-die-for ice cream topped with baklava and honey-cinnamon-citrus syrup. $ L D
THAT LEBANESE PLACE
338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677
The kibbeh is fantastic if you like herbaceous and satisfying eats, and any of the delicious and meaty kebabs is a great choice. We love the stu ed grape leaves appetizer. There are plenty of options for diners with vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. $–$$ L D
THE KEBAB SHACK
900 E. Battlefield, Suite 120, Springfield, 417-3069087
You can find tender and delicious steak and chicken kebabs (or chicken or beef shawarma), served with flavorful rice, fresh baladi salad and so pita. Vegetarians can opt for a similar combo, but with falafel instead of meat. You can even get all those proteins as a wrap. $$ L D
MEXICAN
CABOS BONITOS GRILL & CANTINA
3637 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-2213490, cabosbonitos.com
Come to this east Springfield spot for all your Mexican favorites plus some fun and unique dishes like the fried avocado appetizer. It has beer-battered avocado halves filled with your choice of meat and topped with sour cream and chipotle ranch sauce. $$ L D
Cantina Laredo is a great option if you’re exploring Branson and have a hankering for Mexican food. Located on Branson Landing, it has a great view of the choreographed fountain and of Lake Taneycomo and the blu s across the water. The menu is varied, and we love the salsas. $$ L D
CASA BELLA MEXICAN CUISINE
4610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7715031; 300 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417885-9097
The menu is huge at Casa Bella, which has two Springfield locations. Try the tasty ceviche, any of the street tacos, or the spicy camarones a la diabla. The Battlefield location is huge too. $$ L D
CATRINA’S MODERN MEXICAN
2925 Battlefield Road, Suite 105, Springfield, 417-350-1006, catrinascantina.com
Look for hand-crushed guacamole that can be loaded up with chicharron. The grilled plantains are a treat! Some of our favorite entrees are the sopes topped with shredded beef, the spicy Yucatan shrimp and the Catrina quesadilla. $$ L D d
CESAR’S OLD MEXICO
2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-881-8252
Indulge in authentic Mexican food at incredibly reasonable prices. We love the birria taco, which is filled with succulent shredded beef. Don’t miss the Salvadorian pupusas stu ed with beans and cheese. $ L D
EL PARAISO MEXICAN KITCHEN
Locations in Springfield and Stra ord, elparaisokitchen.com
This Stra ord-based Mexican restaurant now has an outpost in Downtown Springfield too. They are known for a great lineup of margaritas and all your favorite Mexican dishes. For an app, try the flaming cheese or the ceviche. For an entree, try the piña a la parrilla—a fresh pineapple bowl filled with grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, scallops, veggies and more. $$ L D
Crab Rangoon
HABANERO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT + CANTINA
Locations in Springfield, Republic, Carthage and Joplin; habanerosmexicancantina.com
Orginally in Carthage, this popular Mexican restaurant has expanded to three other Ozarks cities. Don’t miss the tender quesabirria tacos with rich consomme for dipping. The nachos, enchiladas and guacamole are hits too. $$ L D
IGUANA ROJA
107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO-13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net
There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery located on the square in Ozark. Don’t miss the one made with jalapeños; it has a kick that’s so much fun to drink. The chips are excellent here, with a yummy seasoning sprinkled on top of every one.
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LA PALOMA
3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7194484, dienlapaloma.com; 1425 W. Battlefield St., Springfield, 417-8892985, thelapaloma.com
This spot o ers a huge range of Mexican dishes including fish tacos, which are excellent. Battered and fried fish is topped with fresh pic de gallo, cabbage and a creamy chipotle sauce.
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MEXICAN VILLA
Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net
This spot is a favorite among longtime Springfield locals, and it is known for its sweet sauce served with tortilla chips. Also popular is the Sancho Enchilada Style—a huge burrito that is completely swimming in red enchilada sauce. $ L D d
OXO BAR & GRILL
2550 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3069808, oxospringfield.com
Try modern takes on Mexican street food, like pork belly street tacos, chorizo burritos, chilaquiles, aquachile, elote and more. Come on Saturday for Latin Night for Latin dancing. Live music is a regular occurance here, so the atmosphere is always a blast. Brunch available on Sundays with items like morning tostadas. $$BL D d
PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8901212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com
Diners love the pollo abovado, an 8-ounce chicken breast that’s grilled and topped with homemade chorizo, white queso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos: three so corn tortillas filled with steak, cilantro and onions and served with rice, beans and avocado. $–$$ L D
SEÑOR JULIAN
MEXICAN BAR & GRILL
3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-240-2120
This tiny restaurant packs big flavors, with a menu that features traditional Mexican soups, handmade-to-order flour tortillas, quesabirria tacos, massive quesadillas, fajita baked potatoes and more. The tacos especiales are a favorite, filled with carne asada, cilantro, onions, queso fresco and avocado. If you like pozole, come on the weekends when they serve both that and menudo. Don’t miss the huge margaritas menu, featuring fun options like their mangonada margarita and a great selection of tequilas. $–$$ L D
TEAM TACO
1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf. com
Let the little ruby-red building near Pickwick Avenue and Cherry Street be your guiding beacon to flavor-packed tacos, nachos and rice bowls. This tiny cafe serves major flavors in its taco menu. We’re fans of the Globetrotter pork belly taco, and we always have to taste test the Ringer, the shop’s rotating special taco. $ L D d
TINGA TACOS
308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318007, tingatacossgf.com Tacos are so creative here. We are partial to the Fu Yu made with super-flavorful marinated tofu or the Fruity Piggles with juicy pork and fig jam. $ L D
TORTILLERIA PERCHES
1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8648195
This tiny little authentic Mexican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a Mexican soda, a traditional Mexican soup or a tamale when you visit. $ BL D
ASIAN FUSION
OCEAN ZEN PACIFIC RIM RESTAURANT
4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8899596, eatoceanzen.com Asian fusion fine dining. Try Chilean sea bass or the macadamia nut chicken. We particularly love ordering the Hawaii Five-O sushi roll; with seared rare tuna and a pineapple salsa, it’s a tasty combination of savory, sweet, spicy and refreshing. Don’t miss the top-notch steaks. $$–$$$ L D d
THE WHEELHOUSE
1845 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-4300400, wheelhousefood. com
Thai-Mexican fusion. The pineapple fried rice is a fan favorite at this ThaiMexican fusion spot, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. We always go for the kimchi-falafel tacos. They are bursting with great tastes and pack some seriously spicy heat thanks to the homemade kimchi. $ BL D
PIZZA
ARRIS’ PIZZA
1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8817260, arrispizzaonline. com Greek-influenced. Thincrust pizzas have a Greek flair at Arris’ Pizza. Be sure to order the Athena (a pizza made with feta, pepperoni, olives, mushrooms and green peppers) if you want to try one that bursts with flavor. The bruschetta is a great appetizer, and it’s unlike bruschetta we’ve had other places. $–$$ L D
THE BIG SLICE
1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7201928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com New York–style. You can get big New York–style brick oven pizza by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer, but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pizza. We love the creamy spinach pizza too, when we’re in the mood for a white pie. The gigantic pepperonis are a wonderful topping too. They are the same ones used in the pepperoni pinwheels. The white pizzas are delish too. $–$$ L D
CHERI’S HAPPY PLACE
located at Metropolitan Grill, 2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com
Wood-fired. It’s all about perfect pizza paired with champagne at this spot. Cooked in a wood-fired oven, this pizza is something like a mix between New York–style and Neapolitan-style. Try the Hotter Than Jacquez pizza with smoke mozzarella, bacon, pepperoni and fresh jalapeños. So, so good! There are occasional bingo night events here, and we’ve heard they are a blast and fill up quickly. $$ D
GARBO’S PIZZERIA
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-8839010, garbospizzeria. com
St. Louis–style. If you love a loaded St. Louis–style pizza, try the toppings-packed Grandiose. Or try the Bavarian pizza for something a little di erent; it is topped with Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. Customers are big fans of the Garbo’s house salad and its tasty homemade dressing. It’s honestly so hard to resist. $–$$ L D d
MASO PIZZA BAR
3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7201047
Wood-fired. Maso Pizza Bar is owned by Nicola Gilardi and located just a few door down from his other restaurant, Nicola’s Ristorante. And just like at Nicola’s, everything on the menu is delish. We can’t wait to try options like the Nic Rise and Shine, Italian Stallion and vegetarian-friendly Monica Healthy pies. The menu also spans salads, panini, pasta, soups and more. There’s patio seating available. $$ D d
Wood-fired. This taproom and micro-distillery is the first outpost of Springfield Brewing Company, and its menu specializes in wood-fired pizza cooked in a brick oven. The Bourbon BBQ pizza is topped with fire-roasted chicken, smoked mozarella, homemade bourbon barbecue sauce and both pickled onions and pickled jalapeños made in-house. Head there on a nice day to take advantage of all the backyard games. $$ L D d
PAPPO’S PIZZERIA
221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8661111; 900 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417306-9091; pappospizzeria.com
Stonebaked. Try the spicy chicken Cholula pie topped with a mixture of red sauce and olive oil, grilled chicken marinated in Cholula sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, red onions, cilantro. Also, be sure you try the meatballs. We really like the salads here as well. $–$$ L D
THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB
2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-3680277
Hand-tossed. With a menu full of pizza, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pub fare and a killer beer selection, there’s something to please everyone. We love to build our own pizza with Alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. Be sure to order the Brussels sprouts appetizer; they are flash fried and crispy, served with crispy potatoes, lardons, goat cheese and a balsamic reduction drizzle. Try the carrot cake for dessert. $$ L D
PIZZA HOUSE
312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8814073
Thin-crust. This restaurant has been a tradition in Springfield for more than 50 years, and the pizza they serve is super-thin and cut into super-tiny pieces. It’s a classic that’s not to be missed and is a favorite of lifelong locals. $ L D
New York–style. This Italian eatery specializes in New York–style pizza that has anybody who’s been to the east coast swooning. Also on the menu are hot subs, like meatball or eggplant Parmesan, plus salads, calzones and a handful of pasta entrees. $–$$ L D
SCHULTZ PIZZA + PUB
2210 W. Chesterfield St., Ste. 8683, Springfield, 417-885-0060, schultzpub.com
Neopolitan. The pizzas here are made using cold-fermented dough, a sauce of San Marzano tomatoes and a special pizza oven. Try the Blanco Formaggio white pizza made with garlic oil and five cheeses. Also on the menu: smash burgers, hot sandwiches, chicken wings and more. $$ L D
SLAP BOX PIZZA & WINGS
2932 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-8863333
Brick oven. There are a bunch of creative pizzas on the menu here, with sourdough crust that’s the perfect ratio of chewy to crunchy. We like the Arma Segreta, topped with caramelized and charred pepperoni, mushrooms, ricotta, basil and more. $$ L D d
Hours: Tues–Sat: 12pm-9pm
Enjoy freshly made seasonal favorites, in shareable portions, with a wide assortment of wines, beers and a full bar + patios and lake views! From charcuterie and roasted vegetables, to house-made pastas, and chicken, fish and beef specials to decadent desserts. Come try your new favorites!
15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West 865-223-5527 | Cellar417.com
Hours: 11am–9:30pm
Authentic Chinese cuisine restaurant, offering great prices, a friendly staff and freshly prepared dishes, such as the Buddha’s Feast meal displayed above. Dine in, use the convenient drive-thru or enjoy outside dining on the lovely patio.
1710 S. Kansas Expy., SGF | 417-832-8889 557 E. Elm St., Republic | 417-732-9888
PUBS & BARS
BEFORE & AFTER BREWING
2940 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, beforeandaerbrewhouse
There are excellent beers, espresso drinks and cocktails on the menu here, along with zero-proof cocktails. As for what to eat, the snacks are stellar here. The loaded hot pretzel is an indulgence, and they serve tasty boards (with all the accouterments) that feature highend tinned fish as the centerpiece. $$ L D
BEST OF LUCK BEER HALL
313-B S. Je erson Ave., Springfield; 417-5229009; bestofluckbeerhall. com
This downtown beer hall combines backyard charm with killer food
and more beers than you can count. If suds aren’t your thing, try a seasonal cocktail or one of the dra alcoholic punches. The extensive food menu includes flavor spins on cookout favorites, like juicy cheddarwurst brats, salty shoestring fries with dipping sauces, and kimchi-spiked fried chicken sandwiches. $$ BL D d
BLACKSTONE GASTROPUB
1521 E. Broadway St., Joplin, 417-553-0665
Blackstone Gastropub features hand-cra ed cocktails and 16 beers on tap alongside some great-looking eats like the crispy fried chicken, grilled salmon on a bed of gnocchi. Keep an eye out for Blackstone’s super-creative daily specials. Recently, we’ve seen a Seattle Roll with smoked burnt-end sau-
sage and a ton of toppings, and smash-burger grilled tacos with jalapeño-ranch slaw. $ $ L D
CLEAR LOUNGE
At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433
Just across the street from Branson Landing at the Hilton Branson Convention Center is Clear Lounge, a great place to grab a cocktail with friends. This spot is home to tasty food, good music and drinks. D d
COYOTE’S ADOBE CAFÉ & BAR
1742 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8897120; 807 N. Main St., Nixa, 417-725-6803, coyotes4wings.com
This spot is known for its 40 flavors of chicken wings, from common (bu alo) to unexpected (tandoori spice). There are also tons of apps, sammies, entrees, and breakfast options. $ BL D d
GALLOWAY STATION
1281 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8819730
We love the Rajun Cajun burger; it’s big, hearty and always delicious. Plus, we can’t get enough of the fries and freshly made potato chip. Order them with a side of the spicy ranch dressing for dipping. The chicken wraps are another longtime customer favorite at Galloway Station, and there’s a reason for it.
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GEORGIA MAC’S
1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3195770, georgiamacs.com
The food is hearty and comforting with a southern flare at this south Springfield eatery. You can find loaded burgers (like the one topped with jalapeño bottle caps), fried catfish, country fried steak, loaded fries with tons of toppings, and lots more. The chicken fingers are some of the best we’ve ever had, and the Georgia Hot Chicken sandwich packs a big flavor with mild heat. $ $ L D
HARRY’S COCKTAIL LOUNGE & BAR
at Big Cedar Lodge, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-3395200, bigcedar.com/ dining
This chic cocktail spot is located downstairs at the Worman House on the
Big Cedar Lodge property. It’s a great place to stop by for a drink (they have excellent cocktails and a great wine and whiskey selection), and they also o er a rotating menu of small plates and appetizers. We loved the short rib sliders and the strawberry-infused Paper Plane cocktail. $–$$ L D d
THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB
137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-4255162, thegoldengirl.com
This rum bar on the southwest corner of Park Central Square (with a great people-watching patio space) serves up handcra ed cocktails and a made-from-scratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. Try the Thai sticky wings for an unusual twist on a bar staple. Be sure to try the tacos, ramen and artisan
pizzas. The pizza specials always come topped with creative ingredients for a seriously delicious and shareable pie. As for drinks, everything on the menu is reliable well-done. Our favorite: Mr Guava Lava, which is both fruity and spicy. $ L D d
GOOD SPIRITS & CO.
1424 E. Cherry St., Suite A, Springfield, goodspiritsandco.com
The owners of Good Spirits & Co. are behind some great local food and drink concepts (like The Golden Girl Rum Club, Sweet Boy’s Neighborhood Bar, Cherry Picker Package & Fare and Best of Luck Beer Hall), and their chic headquarters on Cherry Street is home to fun foodand-drink events. Check their website for things like monthly dinners and events. $$–$$$
J.O.B. PUBLIC HOUSE
319 E. Walnut St., Springfield, job417.com
This spot is known for its excellent bourbon selection and elevated bar food. Longtime favorites include the Full Ride burger, the Codi Brah falafel sandwich, and the pepperoni pizza balls. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the O ce Crush, made with Rittenhouse Rye, housemade peach and black tea syrup, lemon juice and peach puree. $$ L D
LINDBERG’S TAVERN
318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688900, lindbergsbar.com
Forget about basic bar food. This storied watering hole goes above and beyond with creative takes on hearty comfort food classics. The burgers are delicious, but honestly everything we’ve tried
has been impressive. The specials are always beautifully creative, and the Sunday brunch is one of the best around. $ L D d
THE ROYAL
1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, 417-3513029, theroyalmusichall. com
This tiny and beautiful spot serves well-cra ed cocktails, bottled cocktails and finger foods like warm olives or rosemary and bitters glazed nuts. Be sure to visit when there is live music; the intimate setting makes for a great experience. The Royal is also open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday with a lovely French-inspired menu.
$ L D
SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY
305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-832-
8277, springfieldbrewingco.com
Try the fish and chips paired with the beers that are brewed on-site. Also delicious are the burgers and the mac and cheese. Live music. $$BL D d
VINO CELLARS WINE SHOP
& LOUNGE
2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7731985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-773-1985, vcellars.com
Small plates, snacks and tapas make up the menu at this comfortable spot. $ L D
SEAFOOD & FISH
CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL
815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com This Joplin hot-spot
serves some fantastic seafood, and we’ve enjoyed everything we’ve tried there. The Chilean sea bass is a specialty. Try some of the small plates, like portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. There are also great entree salad options. $$–$$$ L D
VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY
260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8511768; roo opvantage. com
This roo op bar at Hotel Vandivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and even o ers dining igloos in the winter so you can enjoy the scene all year long. The cocktails are
refreshingly creative and classically well-done, and the menu of shareables and snacks bring the concept of bar food up several notches with items like the pork rillette tartine. Make sure you try something from the super-fresh, beautifully prepared raw bar. The pickled shrimp and scallop ceviche are two of our faves. $$ d
STEAK
CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR
1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8238383
The former Touch Restaurant & Oyster Bar retains some standby dishes like bacon-wrapped dates
and chicken Bijan in its new iteration as Char Steakhouse & Oyster Bar (owned by the same people), but o erings of Waygu steaks, lamb shank and fish dishes up the ante. Indulgent lobster potato puree and crispy flash-fried Brussels sprouts round out the side dishes, and raw oysters, ceviche and bone marrow pique the appetite as starters. Be sure to sample Char’s cocktails, or something o the extensive wine list.
$$$ D d
FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8624444, flamesteakhouse. com
The restaurant specializes in dry-aged steaks that
TRY IT NOW
What’s Brewing at Battlefield Mall
MOKapè Brews and Bites at Battle eld Mall is now open and dishing out co ee, smoothies, soda blends and cro es. What are cro es, you may ask? They are a delightful cross between a croissant and a wa e, and they come in avors like matcha, mango, Nutella and tiramisu. As far as co ee goes, this new shop in the former Starbucks location doesn’t disappoint. They serve espresso beverages made with beans by St. Louis-based roaster Goshen Co ee Roasters. Now, onto those soda blends, which are called “Dirty Sodas” on the menu. Remember when you were a kid and used to combine di erent avors of sodas at the fountain drink machine? These are like that, but de nitely more curated. Your child (or inner child) will love the Just Soda, which is a combo of club soda, Coke, Coke Zero, Dr. Pepper, Fanta, Mello Yellow and Sprite. If you want something a bit closer to an Italian soda, you’ll want to try the Midwest Hello, which is a combination of Mellow Yellow, Raspberry, Pineapple, Mango and half and half. Looks like the entire family can get their ca eine x once again at the mall.
are truly delicious. Don’t miss the lobster macaroni and cheese (we’re serious; you have to try this stu ). The desserts are always divine, and we can’t get enough of the appetizer menu. Head to Red Room downstairs for killer happy hour food and drink specials. (Don’t miss the burgers at happy hour! They are so delicious.) $$$ D
JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB
1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8865466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com
We love the tasty steaks here. They are always prepared perfectly. The stu ed Peppadew peppers are a must-try appetizer; trust us, you need to taste those things! The peppers are stu ed with cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. And if you love a good salad bar, Jimm’s has one of the best. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the o -menu smothered rib-eye for a little decadence. Desserts are always a treat here as well. $$–$$$ L D
LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE
The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433, level2steakhouse.com
This Branson restaurant specializes in steaks, but its gooey butter cake dessert is gaining a following. Try the Kansas City strip steak and the egg noodles with cheese. If you like to start your meal with greens, the Caesar salad is a musttry; it comes topped with delicious fried anchovies. Also, don’t miss the fresh Hawaiian ahi tuna served on a Himalayan salt block: delightful! Don’t sleep on the prime rib dip sandwich, either. $$$ B D
Dry-aged prime steaks are served in this restaurant’s fine-dining atmosphere. The sides are delicious too, with options like garlic potato puree and tru e creamed corn. Be sure to try the charcuterie board with all the usual goodies plus some house-made jam. A er your steakhouse dinner, hop over to the casino for some gaming fun. $$ D
RERICO BRAZILIAN GRILL
3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-8818882, rericogrill.com
Are you a huge fan of all things meaty? Try 18 kinds of meat for dinner, all sliced tableside. Dinner comes with beef soup, so rolls and unlimited trips to the cold bar with things like fresh cheese, pasta salads and more. $ L D d
WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE
1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com
Come to Joplin’s Wilder’s Steakhouse to find steaks in all sizes and varieties, all of which are certified black Angus beef and free of hormones and antibiotics. The restaurant’s menu also has a variety of other items like seafood and chicken. $$$ D
TEA ROOMS
BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM
1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417866-5533, bethsbakeshoppe.com
Try a chicken salad sandwich—served on cinna-
mon raisin bread. And we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette, and the gigantic couscous salad loaded with fresh veggies and Feta. $ L
MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM AND VINTAGE SUITCASE
211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8867000, robinsvintagesuitcase.com
The daily specials and desserts are the star of this tearoom and pastry shop on Commercial Street. There is always a quiche and soup of the day, plus desserts. $ L
SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM
107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331
The homemade desserts are to die for. Be sure to order them quickly before they run out—like you might want to order them before you order entrees! Don’t miss the veggie sandwich, the strawberry soup or the chicken salad. $ L
THAI
EVERYDAY THAI
220 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7700147, myeverydaythai. com
This spot serves consistently delicious Thai dishes. Some of our favorites are the tom kha gai soup, the comforting yellow curry with chicken and the mango sticky rice dessert. $–$$ L D
RAMA THAI CAFÉ
1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8653204
This restaurant, located inside a charming old house on Historic Walnut Street, features a menu full of delicious Thai tastes in a cozy atmosphere with a shady patio
out back. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig into the entrees with an order of delicious curry noodles or a spicy curry option. $–$$ L D d
SIMPLY THAI
2808 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8650101, simplythai.com
From the owner of Thai Express, Simply Thai o ers a similar menu of Thai restaurant favorites—and some Springfield-style cashew chicken too. The Thai basil stir fry with tofu is our favorite dish, and the magic noodles never disappoint. $ L D
TAI KITCHEN
114 E. Main St., Branson, 417-544-0581, taikitchenbranson.com
This family-owned spot serves fresh flavors in dishes like the Tai Beef Salad, Thai fish cake appetizer, and several types of Thai soups. Don’t miss the great curries they have here too! $–$$ L D
THAI THAI CUISINE
1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com
Thai Thai Cuisine o ers really great Thai food and a sweet sta . The panang curry is delicious, and it’s served on a little bed of fresh spinach. $–$$ L D
THAI EXPRESS
2113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8650101, 417thaiexpress. com
When you visit this friendly spot, don’t miss the Magic Noodle, mango curry chicken and volcano shrimp dishes. They are all tasty. The green curry is delicious, with a sauce so divine you might just want to drink it. The Thai iced teas (both red and green versions) are great additions to a dinner here. $ L D
Goodbye to a Stellar Sammie Slinger
Downtown Spring eld’s beloved walk-up sandwich joint, The Sandwich Scene, closed its doors at the end of 2024. In a post on Facebook, owner Mack Musgrave shared that he closed up shop to focus on ongoing health issues. He said the shop will make appearances in the future with fun pop-up events featuring “sandwiches we’ve dreamed up but couldn’t launch.” While we are so sad we’ll no longer be able to visit this spot (and all of its delicious, creative, oneof-a-kind sandwiches), we wish Mack the very best. “This has been a tough decision,” Mack said in his post. “Over the years, this little shop has grown into something bigger than I ever imagined—a place for fun, silly sandwiches, shared laughs, and a sense of community I will always cherish. Together, we’ve created something truly special, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.”
THAI GARDEN
3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8895280, thaigardenspringfield.com
There are so many great Thai options here, like nam tok beef, shareable bowls of noodle soup, stir fry and curry options and lots more. Get the fried bananas or Thai custard for dessert. Fun little extra: They bottle their Thai iced tea and Thai iced co ee. $ L D
THAI PALACE
3250 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7715640, thaifoodpalace. com
The menu here is a mix of Thai food along with some Chinese and Japanese dishes. Try the green curry, fresh spring rolls, or tom kha khai soup. And you have to pair it with a sweet Thai iced tea. $–$$ L D
THAI SQUARE
307 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-7715300, facebook.com/ Thaisquare307
From the folks who owner Rama Thai (and located
(Our favorite: Use all of the herbs, a couple of jalapeños and a squirt of sriracha.) Don’t miss the refreshing bun bowls too! The one made with lemongrass beef is a flavor bomb. The pineapple chicken stir fry entree is another customer favorite. $ L D d
HONG YEN
2926 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3513915, facebook.com/ hongyenrestaurant.
just around the corner from it), Thai Square offers an excellent menu of Thai food favorites. Our favorite dish is the salmon choo chee, but the spicy papaya salad and the traditional pad Thai are both tied for a close second. $$ L D
THAILAND STATION
1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3501001, thailandstation.net
Find all your favorites (a variety of curries, stir fried noodle dishes and soups) plus some surprises like crispy duck and stirfried pork belly. We’re super-excited about the salad options, like the som tum (papaya salad) and the laab (ground chicken salad). When it’s in season, order the mango sticky rice. $ L D
Come to Hong Yen when you’re in search of excellent beef pho. The chicken pho is pretty good too! Really, anything with noodles is worth a try, and the menu has several clear noodle soups and egg noodle soups in addition to the pho selection. $ L D d
PHO KIM
3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8839999, phokimspringfield. com
Here you can fill up on Vietnamese staples like pho, spring rolls, a variety of bahn mi sandwiches and more. The chicken fried rice is extra crispy, and the chicken pho is just as tasty as the classic beef variety here. We love the fresh spring rolls too. If you aren’t afraid of heat, try the spicy beef noodle soup. $ L D
SKULLY’S
1427 E. Cherry St., Springfeild, 417-3680949, facebook.com/ skullys417
1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8819881
The pho is a specialty here. You can add spice, herbs, jalapeños and sprouts to customize it.
This spot specializes in non-traditional takes on Vietnamese banh mi sandwishes. Try the one made with oyster mushrooms, or the marinated lemongrass beef option. Also on the menu: ramen, chicken wings, wok bowls, miso-butter noodles for the kiddos, lots of vegetarian-friendly dishes and more. $$ L D
VIETNAMESE
BAMBU
Midwest Goodbye the
HEY, WE HAVE A FEW MORE OZARKS MOMENTS TO SHARE WITH YOU BEFORE YOU GO.
Night of Caring
The Doula Foundation raised funds to support local moms, babies and families in need at their annual fundraiser, Night of Caring. The evening included prize drawings, specialty drinks, live music and inspiring stories from families impacted by The Doula Foundation’s mission to provide support for every family in need.
From le to right: Cheyann & Bryan Horton
Continued on page 120 >>
People Pics e MidwestGoodbye
Night of Caring
The Doula Foundation of Mid-America’s annual fundraiser Night of Caring was a night filled with inspiring stories, delicious food, specialty drinks, live music and prize drawings. Funds for the evening supported local moms, babies and families in need.
Date: September 27
Benefiting Organization: Doula Foundation of Mid-America
Location: Judy Thompson Executive Ballroom
Sponsors: 417 Magazine, Mercy, Forvis Mazars, Scooter’s Co ee, Success Naturally— Loa Freeman, Weston and Caitlin Kissee, Cox Health—Dr. Patricia Dix, Bass Pro Shops, Great Southern Bank, Associated Electric Cooperative
1. Brandon & Cindy Beck, Ashleigh & Adam Goris
2. Lucas Lawrence, Sarah Storer, Tammy, & Michael Storer
3. Jenny Wynn, Kimberly Costello, Andrea Ehrhardt
4. Barry & Hannah Hartman
5. Greg & Katherine Gold, Jess & Lee Flood
6. Brett & Barb Houser
7. Amanda Semro, Jennifer Fish, Raylena Walker
Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation’s Soiree
Presented by SGC Foodservice at the farm of Tim and Nancy Erickson in Bolivar, the Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation’s Soirée included a fine dining experience by Chef Curtis Adams, sunset carriage rides, live music and silent and live auctions.
Date: September 21
Benefiting Organization: Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation
Location: Erickson Farm
Sponsors: 417 Magazine, SGC Foodservice and more
1. Regina Jennings, Trina Banner
2. Emme Hall, Bladen Hancock
3. Curtis Adams, Kelli Rush
4. Dr. Katherine & Logan Davis, Dr. Ron & Suzie Evans
5. Tasha &Scott Crouch
6. Leah Lehman, Craig & Lisa Lehman, Taylor Hillemburg
7. Melissa & Najee Agnew, Dr. Mark & April Walterskirchen
People Pics e MidwestGoodbye
SPS Hall of Fame
Springfield Public Schools inducted the 2024 Hall of Fame honorees Billy Gene Cooper and L. Denise Fredrick with an a ernoon celebrating their distinguished accomplishments that serve as inspirational examples for current SPS students.
Date: October 4
Benefiting Organization: Springfield Public Schools
Location: White River Conference Center
Sponsors: 417 Magazine, AdSmith Marketing & Advertising, Community Foundation of the Ozarks, Foundation for Springfield Public Schools, KY3, Mattax Neu Prater Eye Center, Ozarks Coca Cola Dr Pepper Bottling Company
PHOTOS BY KRISTIN SHARP
1. Crystal Sharp
2. Charlotte Hardin, Sidney Needem, Elaine Graham Estes
3. Josh Groves, Sheila Wynn, Bill Powers
4. Carol Cummings, Billy Gene Cooper
5. Jeremy Brown, Dr. Kenneth Davis
6. Bridget Dierks, Judy Brunner, Dr. Nicole Holt
7. Dr. L. Denise & Gail Fredrick, Susan Provance
Date: October 4
Benefiting Organization: Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks
Location: Oasis Hotel & Convention Center
Sponsors: 417 Magazine, Brent & Barbie Davis, Burgess Aircra Management, The Charlie & Mary Beth O’Reilly Family Foundation, Murney Associates Realtors, Oncology Hematology Associates, and more
1. Kelly & Ken Palermo 2. Brandi Smith, Emily Laurie
3. Vanessa Howe, Todd Strickland
4. Drs. David & Annie Hayes, Drs. Jami &. Mark Skrade
5. Kati Zembsch, Dawn Kee, Dr. Wade Kubat, Fonda Underwood, Brandi Smith
6. Virginia Jones, Donna Powers
7. Brian Biggers, Ashley Carter
Hooked on Dance
Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks’ premier fundraising event Hooked on Dance, presented by Murnery Associates Realtors, raised funds for providing help and hope for families facing breast cancer in the Ozarks. The evening included great food, a silent and live auction and silent disco.
WHERE’S417?
Bring 417 Magazine on your next adventure—whether you’re traveling or exploring close to home.
1. Vatican City, Rome Katherine and Bill Marler brought their copy of the “Must-Try Noodles” issue with them to St. Peter’s Basilica.
2. South Island, New Zealand Astry Rivera took her copy of the “Our Wild Places” issue with her to The Sheepdog Memorial at Lake Tekapo.
3. Weem, Scotland Chris, Lauren and Milo Edwards and Julia Holmes took their copy of the “Summer on the Farm” issue to Scotland.
4. Santorini, Greece
Jerry and Jean Harmison brought their copy of the “52 Perfect Saturdays” issue with them to Greece.
5. Bran, Romania
Gratziana and Craig Jones brought their copy of the “52 Perfect Saturdays” issue with them to Dracula’s castle in Romania.
6. Palm Springs, California
Tim and Charlotte Karr brought their copy of 417 Bride with them to Palm Springs.
7. Liberty, Maine Danicka, Courtney, Matt, Brandt, Emerson Beckley, Charla Locke, Shirley and Tom Beckley brought their copy of the “Top Docs” issue with them to Pratt Island.
Oh,OneMore Thing e Midwest Goodbye
Tom Masterson, Executive Director of Schools—Elementary for Spring eld Public Schools,
is
the Kansas City Chiefs’ Fan of the Year.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
“It’s been awesome. Every Chiefs game they put my picture up, and that’s kind of crazy. I can always know that I’ll get some texts from people at the game.”
QHow were you named the Kansas City Chiefs’ fan of the year?
“The Chiefs do a nomination process over the year prior where you can be nominated for either the Fan of the Year speci cally or—what I was initially nominated for— the Lamar Hunt Legacy Honoree. They take all of those nominations, and they have their own internal review process narrowing down candidates, and then their sta votes on who will be Fan of the Year, and I was selected.”
What was your reaction?
“It was and continues to be pretty unbelievable. I went to the home opener in September, and [there], what I had been told was that I was going to be the Lamar Hunt Legacy Honoree. You get two seats in the lower bowl and some eld passes. About a week before, they said, ‘Hey, we’re going to shoot some special content. Would you be able to bring your tailgating crew up to the World’s Largest Tailgate?’
We went up there and a series of events unfolded where I got to meet the stars of the Hallmark movie that just came out. I got to meet the president of the Chiefs, Mark Donovan. As I was sitting there and talking with them, the president of the Chiefs said, ‘Hey! We have another thing,’ and out came Clark Hunt—the owner. He said, ‘You’re going to be the Fan of the Year.’ I got a custom jersey, and then he said, ‘There’s one more thing.’ He handed me two Super Bowl tickets.”
