417 Magazine | 25 Ways to Celebrate 417-land | January 2023

REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

Restore your health. Improve your quality of life.

We pioneer non-invasive and non-pharmacological solutions to orthopedic medical issues

WE TREAT

Hair loss, pain in knees, shoulders, elbows, wrists, ankles, lower backs, hips, joints, fingers/toes, feet/hands, tendons, ligaments and muscles

[ EDITORIAL ]

KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

Editorial Director editor@417mag.com

LUCIE AMBERG Biz 417 Editor lucie@417mag.com

JAMIE THOMAS Digital Editor jthomas@417mag.com

COLIN SHEA DENNISTON Engagement & Style Editor colin@417mag.com

JO JOLLIFF Research Editor jo@417mag.com

EDITORIAL INTERN Michelle Lewis SARAH PATTON Creative Director sarah@417mag.com

BRANDON ALMS Senior Photographer & Designer brandon@417mag.com

LEAH STIEFERMANN Photographer & Designer lstiefermann@417mag.com

GRACE CHIPLEY Editorial Designer grace@417mag.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Chris Akins, Colin Shea Denniston, Mariah Hunter, Kristin Knapton, Brian Lera, Jesse Scheve, Sheri Holloway Photography, Zach Shermer, Jessica Kennon Spencer, TGC Photography, Chuck Travers, Kylie Wright, Brad Zweerink

[

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT

MARIYA SERYKH Marketing Coordinator mariya@417mag.com

ASHLEY WARREN Audience Development Manager awarren@417mag.com

]

[ BUSINESS ]

LOGAN AGUIRRE Publisher logan@417mag.com

MEGAN JOHNSON

Vice President of Operations and Custom Publications mjohnson@417mag.com

AMMIE SCOTT MOTES

Vice President of Strategy and Senior Account Executive ascott@417mag.com

MICHELLE MARTENS Finance Assistant mmartens@417mag.com

BERNADETTE PRY Administrative Assistant bernadette@417mag.com

MAEGEN HUYCK Operations Coordinator mae@417mag.com

JAMI WIGHTMAN

Senior Account Executive jami@417mag.com

JANELLE HAIK

Senior Account Executive janelle@417mag.com

KATHY GRIEVE

Account Services Manager kathy@417mag.com

NICKI HODGES

Account Coordinator nicki@417mag.com

KATIE BATLINER

Advertising Design Coordinator kbatliner@417mag.com

ELIZABETH VANFOSSON Digital Coodinator evanfosson@417mag.com

RIN COLWELL Advertising Designer rin@417mag.com

ANNAH CROW

Advertising Design Copywriter annah@417mag.com

Call 417.221.4779 or visit qckinetix.com to schedule your free consultation!

[ FOUNDERS ]

GARY WHITAKER Founder gary@417mag.com

417 Magazine | 417mag.com S. Eastgate ve. Springfield O a

A ride on the Branson Ferris Wheel is the perfect way to see the lay of the land from up high. Read more on p. 97.

on the cover

f that colorful and shiny feel like a celebration that s because they are e turn years old this year and are in the mood to party.

25 WAYS TO FALL IN LOVE WITH 417-LAND

88

This year marks 417 Magazine s th anniversary. To celebrate we ve compiled a list of why we re incredibly grateful to call land our home. rom tasty food to beautiful views this list is sure to make you fall in love with all over again.

R TTE BY T E POLLO ESTES

n our arch edition we re uncovering the holes in the wall and hidden gems of land. et the scoop before anyone else by subscribing now. To get 417 Magazine delivered to your mailbo each month head online to 417mag.com/subscribe

SUBS R BE O

Photo by Brandon lms

LIFE

40 NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

Pay a visit to these land museums to catch our favorite e hibits happening this month.

45 INSIDE OUT

f you re going stir cra y hiding out from the cold weather get creative with these local indoor activities.

55

BACK TO THE FUTURE

uturist Seth Harrell gives insight about his field of study and what the future could hold for land.

61 WARM HEART

Learn how to help unhoused neighbors stay warm during the frigid months of winter.

OUTSIDE

77 ICE, ICE BABY land s waterfalls aren t ust beautiful in the warmth of spring e plore these local trails to catch a glimpse of beautiful fro en waterfalls.

78 GO WITH THE SNOW

Bring a little e citement to your snow days at these land sledding spots. hether you re looking for a slight hill for younger kiddos or steep slopes for adrenaline unkies we ve got you covered.

79 NATURE’S CALL

Escape the city with a trip to the Springfield onservation ature enter where you can e plore a variety of ecosystems and winter wildlife.

YOU A WHOLE BRUNCH

MY EYES OFF OF YOU

Photos by Leah Stiefermann courtesy Shutterstock

COMING SOON

[ START FRESH ]

IT’S SUSTAINABILITY SEASON

There are two kinds of post-Christmas people: Those who are ready to take the tree down on ecember and those who will find any excuse to keep it up a couple more weeks.

hichever category you fit into disposing of a real Christmas tree is a much bigger challenge than packing the fake one up and putting it back in the basement. Fortunately for you, we have written a handy roundup of local places you can go to dispose of, donate or recycle your real Christmas tree. Find the details online at 417mag.com/recycletrees when you’re finally ready to take down the decor.

[ INSIDER INFO ]

On the Web

Find these stories and more at 417mag.com

417 AT THE MOVIES

How many classics have you seen on the big screen? Check out our new blog for regular picks of old school icks play ing at theaters across all of 417-land at 417mag.com/movies

IS YOUR WORKPLACE ONE OF THE BEST IN THE REGION?

Since 2020, Biz 417 has held the Best Places to Work contest to recognize the best employers in 417-land. To enter your workplace in this year’s competition, start the application process online at biz417.com/bestplaces

Photos courtesy Shutterstock, Kelsey Conner, Katie Ann Ensminger

1. atie nn Ensminger katieannensminger and Emma Jo Ensminger attended Disney’s Aladdin at Juanita K. Hammons Hall.

In this issue of 417 Magazine, we introduce you to the people behind more than 50 of our area’s best local businesses. We are proud to connect you with these business owners, community leaders and neighbors who love this place we all call home. They are the Faces of 417-land.

Photography by Brandon Alms & Leah Stiefermann Designed by Katie Batliner Written by Annah Crow

Photo by Brandon Alms

ing opportuniti es available, our doctors have positi oned themselves as leaders in the fi eld of denti stry and established our practi ce as a premier center for comprehensive care— from dental implants and porcelain veneers to Invisalign, traditi onal orthodonti cs and preventati ve services for the enti re family. We’re the only VIP: Diamond Invisalign Provider in the area and embrace the latest technology, techniques and training. We use advanced 3D digital scanners to capture digital impressions of your teeth, which improve the fi t and accuracy of your Invisalign aligners.

We’re grateful to provide bett er, brighter smiles and top-of-the-line service to our many pati ents’ smiles across 417-land! And if you haven’t already, look for our newest locati on near Highway 65 and Evans Road. It includes the modern, high-tech atmosphere you expect from Innovati ve, plus a bundle of

extras and new services!

Of course, every one of our Invisalign pati ents gets the full package, which at Innovati ve Dental includes professional teeth whitening and cosmeti c bonding as well as a fi nal retainer to keep your new smile beaming.

We love sharing our passion and experience with everyone who is considering orthodonti c treatment, and because the least painful, most affordable and best results will be achieved now and not later, we work hard to provide opti ons for pati ents to afford the care that they need now. This saves you money, saves you from pain and ulti mately gives you an Innovati ve Smile! It’s our honor that locals trust us daily to bring a smile to their faces with our Innovati ve approach. Call today to schedule a consultati on!

Dr. Seth Gray, Dr. Taylor Jordan, Dr. Megan Westrich, Dr. Grant Olson – General Dentists

At Martin Law, we love being able to help people fight for the most important things in their lives—their families and children. If you are preparing for family court, let our experienced team of five help you through the process. Whether it is a divorce and custody case, adoption, order of protection, juvenile case, minor guardianship or name change, we are here to help you navigate the situation and will be in your corner through the litigation.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

tions and concerns and never have to wait days for an answer. With something as personal as family, we know the importance of being there when you need us most.

While we handle all aspects of family court litigation, we especially love assisting families who are planning to adopt. Successful adoptions bring an abundance of joy to both the parents and the child as they are able to build a family through the process. If you are

planning an adoption, we would love to meet you and make your family complete.

Martin Law is located on the historic downtown square in Ozark and we are committed to serving our current and potential clients in Christian, Taney, Greene, Douglas and Stone counties. From the first time you walk through our doors, you can rely on Martin Law to guide you through your legal issues with grace and ease.

PJC, founded over 50 years ago, is an independent insurance agency with a very long history of serving the insurance needs of businesses and families in the Springfield and Southwest Missouri area.

Our Transportation Department, being one of the largest in the Midwest, provides transportation coverages and services in seventeen states. We offer a comprehensive range of products specifically designed to

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

petitive pricing to our clients. We proudly offer a broad spectrum of risk management and insurance products that support our business lines of commercial insurance, transportation coverages and services, personal insurance and surety bonding. We offer specialized insurance products for our clients thru over 100 carriers with A ratings or above.

We’re very proud of our partnership with Auto

Owners Insurance Company and offer their products in all of our departments, Commercial, Transportation, Personal Lines, and Life. As a subsidiary of the Sunstar Insurance Group, we are part of the 36th largest independently owned insurance broker in the country. We continue our unrelenting strategic focus on serving our client needs and positioning the agency to be the employer of choice in our industry.

FACE OF THE ULTIMATE FACIAL Acacia Spa

As the premier day spa in Springfield, we couldn’t have the reputation we do without providing the ultimate facial in town.

We believe that you deserve to be pampered with personalized facial care, bringing out the best in you and rounding out your complete Acacia Spa experience. You’ll receive a clinical facial treatment in a relaxing spa se ng... the best of both worlds! During your visit, we will focus on correcting specific skin concerns with this results-driven, highly customized facial.

Our advanced facial treatments integrate the use of aesthetic equipment and include skin analysis, steam, deep cleansing

and exfoliation, extractions, face and neck massage, Rx infusion and masques. Find options on our website that include couples’ facials, treatments for teens, quick on-the-go options, dermaplaning and lots of add-ons.

The Acacia experience is a unique blend of day spa, med spa, and integrative health, designed to help you achieve total well-being. Each service has been though ully created with exactly that intention, so every time you walk through our doors, you can breathe a little easier. Our experienced staff at Acacia Spa in Galloway will help you put your best face forward! face forward!

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

FACE OF BOTOX

Acacia Spa

That’s right... we’re more than a day spa. Our med spa is also 417-land’s Face of Botox®

Do you feel as though you look tired or older than you should for your age? BOTOX® Cosmetic is the only FDA-approved treatment that temporarily improves the appearance of both moderate to severe frown lines between the brows and crow’s feet in adults.

With real, noticeable results, no surgery and no recovery time, there are many reasons why Botox® at Acacia Spa is so popular. Plus we offer discounts on every unit to returning clients.

We base everything we do on our expertise and commitment

to using the most advanced technology and products available, at the hands of the industry’s best and brightest. No matter how big or small your goal, our staff is prepared to meet your unique needs with personalized treatments and products from facials unlike any other to medical spa treatments.

You can experience head-to-toe transformation at Acacia Spa. Relax and take in all that Acacia has to offer. Our world-class amenities and spa se ng are included with every service. Men’s and women’s amenities are separate and include locker rooms, relaxation lounge, infrared sauna, eucalyptus steam shower, arctic room and outdoor courtyard with firepit.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Shining a Light for 25 Years

What an honor it is to lead the legacy of 417 Magazine into the next quarter of a century. hen re ect on that thought

I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for all of the people who have been a part of our story.

First, we have to look back and thank a local radio group called Radio 2000 for starting 417 Magazine in 1998, and the original editor Ron Davis and art director Mike Wingo who gave it life. In 2001, through a series of twists and turns, my parents Gary and Joan Whitaker had the opportunity to purchase 417. My mom said maybe not. My dad said why not and together they took the leap. Thank goodness they did.

We have a community of people to thank for those early days including The Missouri School of ournalism and r. on Ranly for o ering guidance and wisdom on how a magazine like this could be successful, and the City & Regional Magazine Association, a network of magazines like ours all over the country that share best practices and have become like family.

Speaking of family we ve benefited from several family members on our team throughout the years including my brother Dylan Whitaker, Anna Whitaker (who started as an intern and became family!), Josh Sullivan, JuliRose Sullivan, Cyndi Sullivan and eventually me, who joined the business in 2006 after stints in New York and St. Louis. My husband, Dave Aguirre, has jumped in to help recently, and my kids have been known to help stu gift bags or co-emcee an event with me.

Along the way we have had incredible talent grace our doors. Some have gone on to do big things in our market and across the country and others are still here making us better each day. Every single one of our current teammates pours their heart into showing you the best of 417-land each month. I’d be remiss if I didn’t shout out our longest-tenured employee Katie Pollock Estes, our editor who celebrates 17 years with us this year.

Which brings me to you, our audience. We are only a re ection of all the good in our com munity. Thanks to you, we have a bottomless supply of good stories to share, and when you subscribe to 417 Magazine you are supporting real people and real businesses that make this place what it is. Those real businesses are seen throughout the pages of this magazine, for without them we wouldn’t be able to connect our audience to our community and deliver it to your home each month.

At 417, our mission is to shine a light on our community to inspire a life full of experiences, passion, purpose and pride in 417-land. If you’re reading this you ve helped us fulfill that mission for 25 years, and we look forward to you joining us for the next (at least!) 25.

Logan Aguirre Publisher

Photo by Sarah Patton

Jonova before actual patient

party

This year, 417 Magazine celebrates our 25th anniversary, and to say we’re excited is an understatement. In fact, we have little bits of anniversary fun planned for the whole year. First up is this month’s cover story, “25 Ways to Fall in Love with 417-Land.” It’s our way of honoring this place we love—this place that we write about month after month.

As for me, I’ve been working here for 17 years. It’s crazy to me because honestly this time has own. I have grown up here, meeting my husband, starting my family, loving my job and learning so much. I sometimes still feel like I’m new to 417-land since I didn’t live here until I was 23 years old. At the same time, it feels like home through and through. But when I look back on the earliest issues of 417 that I worked on, I can see how much we’ve grown and changed. I can see how we have honed our voice and our mission for how we can serve our community.

The very rst story I ever wrote, for the March 2006 edition, was a short pro le of a stuntman who lived locally but had worked in Hollywood—and he honest-to-God set himself on re during our interview-slash-photoshoot. This month, we’re still highlighting interesting people in our community, like futurist Seth Harrell (see p. 55). Did you know futurist was a job title you could have? Neither did I!

In that same March 2006 issue, I also pro led a nature photographer who spent his days capturing the quiet beauty of the Ozarks wilderness. I remember trudging through underbrush and a river cane grove with him during his photoshoot, as he led us to a gem of a spot where he likes to shoot. This month, we’re still nding perfect little spots in the Ozarks for you to enjoy, like trails that could lead you to frozen waterfalls (see p. 77) or the peaceful beauty of the paths at the Springeld Conservation Nature Center (see p. 79).

So all in all, a lot has changed since 417 was born 25 years ago, but a lot has stayed the same. The Ozarks, its beauty, its people—those are still and always will be the things we focus on, and we’re still loving every minute of it.

My Favorite Page, 90

How many days is it until lake season? I love the cozy chill of winter, maybe more than most people. But this picture makes me want to race to Table Rock Lake with my husband and kids and leap into the water. I’m counting down the days!

Photo by Brandon Alms

Katie Pollock Estes

Editorial Director | editor@417mag.com

The November “Made in 417-Land” issue featured some of our favorite locally made decor, art and furniture.

CORRECTION

In the November 2022 “Made in 417-Land” feature, we printed an outdated website URL for blown glass artist Terry Bloodworth. You can fi nd Bloodworth s work locally at averly House Gifts & Gallery. We regret the error.

LOVING IT

We are beyond thrilled to be featured—alongside some other amazing Ozarks craftsmen— in 417 Magazine ’s November issue highlighting #MadeInTheOzarks items! A big thank you to the 417 Magazine crew. They are a dream to work with.

The Simply Inspired Shop

We featured Simply Inspired’s decorative vent covers in our “Made in 417-Land” feature. If you didn’t get a chance to see the print edition, you can read all about these great local craftspeople at 417mag.com.—Editor

SUPPORTING THE ARTS

This season of thankfulness and gratitude, we want to recognize a few of the sponsors that have made this season happen. Thank you to 417 Magazine for being an 88th season concert sponsor!

Springfi eld Symphony Orchestra

WE LOVE 417-LAND

417 Magazine is a proud member of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the Ozark Chamber of Commerce, the Branson Chamber and Convention & Visitors Bureau, the City and Regional Magazine Association, the Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce, the Republic Area Chamber of Commerce and the Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield.

Terry Bloodworth makes blown glass ornaments with all colors and designs for your home.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

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

1. BARCELONA, SPAIN

2. KING SALMON, ALASKA

Beverly Ramsey, Jeni Hopkins, Nancy Bareford, Coyeatta Ewing and Jon Ewing brought their copy of the “Best Burgers” issue to Park Guell.

Sandy Tarpley, Pam Dobson and Randy Galbraith brought the “Top Doctors” issue with them on their trip to Katmai National Park.

3. ICELAND Richard and Sandra Gey traveled to Iceland with their copy of the “Medical Miracles” issue.

1. TEMPE, ARIZONA

Becky

2. CARTAGENA, COLOMBIA

3. ST. MAARTEN

Jon

4. SEATTLE

Lang and Anne Brown brought their copy of the “Luxe Escapes” issue to the Gammage Auditorium.

Joel Winston traveled with his copy of the “Tacos” issue to see the front of The Clock Tower in Cartagena.

Joan and Gary Whitaker traveled to Pike Place Market in Seattle with their copy of the “Fall Bucket List” issue.

Gold, Connie Gold, Amanda Wolfe and Chris Coble brought “Luxe Escapes” to the Flamingo Beach Resort.

Let’s talk about ti le. From custom showers and niches to backsplashes to wall and fl ooring coordinati on; ti le can completely transform a space. Welcome to 417-land’s premier place to visit for all things ti le! Visit our showroom to fi nd ti le inspirati on, ti le design ideas, in-stock ti le products and underlayment (purchased & taken home the same day!), ti led shower systems, heated ti le fl oor underlayment and thousands of special ordered ti le products. Our broad selecti on of ti le products ensures your perfect combo can be found; matching your vision, your lifestyle, and your budget.

From ti le inspirati on & selecti on to installati on;

Mouery’s Flooring is the perfect place for all your ti le needs. Follow our social media for announcements regarding special ti le workshops featuring upcoming ti le design trends, ti le shower systems, ti le installati on and more!

At Mouery’s Flooring, we have a team aspect and we focus on meeti ng our customer’s needs. We work hard to create an environment that simplifi es the fl oor buying experience. Our no-pressure, commission-free showroom is staffed by knowledgeable, salaried team members. Let us help you fi nd the perfect ti le for your next project. Come visit our showroom and experience the difference.

Photo by Brandon Alms

Hardwood Floors; they can increase the value of your home, provide resiliency and warmth to your home and even work to clean the air in your home! Mouery’s Flooring is THE place in 417-land to visit for ALL things hardwood flooring, from design inspiration to product selection and all the way to installation. At Mouery’s Flooring, we offer a wide range of hardwood floors in-stock (can be purchased & taken home the same day!) as well as thousands of special-order hardwood flooring options.

Our showroom was designed for hardwood flooring inspiration. Check out our website for hundreds of photos of hardwood flooring projects, completed

right here in 417-land. Bring us your Pinterest or inspo photos —and let our knowledgeable, commission-free staff help you find the perfect hardwood floors for your vision, your lifestyle, and your budget.

At Mouery’s Flooring, we have a team aspect, and we focus on meeting our customer’s needs. We are certified by the National Wood Flooring Association. We work hard to create an environment that simplifies the floor buying experience. Let us help you find the perfect hardwood floors for your next project. Come visit our showroom and experience the difference.

Photo by Brandon Alms

Center for Plastic Surgery

World-class plastic surgeons are right here in 417-land to assist you with your options for a breast augmentation. It is normal for breast contour and volume to change due to aging, weight fluctuations, hormonal factors, gravity and pregnancy. Breast Augmentation gives you the freedom to wear clothes you may not have felt comfortable wearing before your surgery and can increase self-image and confidence.

At The Center for Plastic Surgery at CoxHealth, we believe that experience and training matter! Our physicians have pioneered the creation of endoscopic breast augmentation and provide the most advanced breast reconstruction techniques. In fact, we’re frequently

invited faculty of national conferences and featured on CNN, MSNBC, NPS, Allure and Self. The Center for Plastic Surgery was founded on the belief that aging is a treatable condition, not a foregone conclusion. Our approach to slowing, preventing and even reversing the signs of aging is through early detection and appropriate intervention, combining state-of-the-art plastic surgery with scientifically proven anti-aging therapeutics and products.

Book a consultation with us to discuss your options for enhancing your confidence and self-image. We’ll listen to your individual goals and guide the way to what’s best for your unique situation.

Photo by Brandi Keltner

1901 S. GLENSTONE AVE., SUITE C | SPRINGFIELD

It’s more than just getti ng your hair done. It’s 14 years of building relati onships in the community. It’s making sure every guest every ti me gets a personalized consultati on to fi t your needs. It’s explaining what products are the best choices to protect and enhance your investment. If your hair is the crown you never take off, we want to help you shine bright. At Inviktus Salons we take pride in our dedicated approach to fi nding what works best for you. If you dream it, we can create it—vibrant transformati ons,

FACE OF CREDIT UNIONS

BluCurrent Credit Union

BluCurrent has been the face of credit unions, building bett er lives together right here in the Ozarks, since 1929. Our credit union is part of 417-landers’ families. That starts with members’ very fi rst Kids Club savings accounts and fi rst checking accounts, and advances through life alongside them with the purchase of their fi rst car, fi rst home and even their business accounts.

Choosing a credit union has big benefi ts. We offer the banking services and support you need without the big bank bureaucracy. BluCurrent Credit Union is Springfi eld’s largest credit union with over 22,000 members, four branch locati ons and over $260 million

in assets. We provide access to more than 5,000 shared branches through our unique CU Service Center affi liati on, and nearly 30,000 free nati onwide ATMs through our CO-OP Network membership.

When you choose to bank at BluCurrent, you choose to support your community. Our credit union’s dollars stay in the community and help our membership thrive. Not only are we local, but we are a not-for-profi t organizati on. Our profi ts go to community investment, higher interest on deposit products, lower loan rates and improvements to products and services.

Choose to bank local. Bank with BluCurrent.

Photo by Brandi Keltner

FACE OF FINE JEWELRY

Maxon Fine Jewelry

Here at Maxon Fine Jewelry, we are fortunate to be in the business of celebrations. No matter what you are celebrating, we are ready to help. It’s truly an honor to help our customers create, share and commemorate special moments and milestones in 417-land. Not only do we get to witness our customers’ joy, but we feel so lucky to play a small role behind the scenes. Whether it’s finding the perfect ring with which to ask one of life’s most important questions, recognizing a milestone birthday, joining a graduation celebration or simply complementing one of life’s many significant events, Maxon Fine

Jewelry takes great pride in celebrating each and every moment, big and small. We understand you celebrate moments and milestones in a lot of different ways. You might find what you need among our selection of exclusive brands, or you might turn to our in-house designers, who are always ready to bring to life images that live in your imagination. Perhaps you have an important piece of jewelry or family heirloom you wish to revitalize and share again. Whatever you’re celebrating, we are sure that you will find your happily ever after at Maxon Fine Jewelry.

Photo by ADsmith Marketing & Advertising

HM Dent Works is the largest Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) shop in 417-land and fixes minor collision damage, door dings and hail damage on vehicles much faster than a traditional body shop. We remove dents from vehicles by manipulating metal back to its original form without part replacement or filler and paint; this saves your factory paint and helps maintain the value of your car.

We have traveled the world to work hailstorms and there is nowhere better than the Ozarks. Being born

and raised here, we want to help expand the next generation of the skilled trade workforce. HM Dent Works Academy is a one-of-a-kind training program for those who are interested in learning the PDR trade.

At HM Dent Works our customers are like family and we put them at ease, taking care of each one honestly and fairly. There is always a story behind the hailstorm or the dent, and we want to hear it. Call us today to tell us about it and learn how easy and quick it is to fix your vehicle with PDR.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Thank you for 60 years in business, Springfi eld!

Springfield-style cashew chicken comes with a well-documented story. Area natives love the regional favorite, and newcomers ultimately come to adopt it as their own. Residents in 417-land have long recognized Mr. David Leong as the originator of Springfield-style cashew chicken, and have kept coming back to enjoy this classic dish for 60 years. And while we definitely recommend trying the cashew chicken, keep an eye out for new items, as we change up our menu a couple times a year.

Nothing brings people together more than legendary scratch-made food served in a place where everyone is

treated like family. We strive to build off the legacy our founder, David Leong, created by providing customers with experiences they will remember long aft er leaving our restaurant.

Not only was Leong known for making the original Springfi eld-style cashew chicken a 417-land staple, but he also fostered community in everything he did. It is an honor for us to be a part of traditi ons and special moments in the community we call home.

We are proud to be the face of Springfi eld-style cashew chicken. Bring the family and meet ours over a delicious meal even the pickiest of eaters will love.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

TheSmileYou AlwaysWanted

Before

THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE, 45

MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS, 56

SALT OF THE EARTH, 61

plenty of FISH IN THE SEA

Take a trip to Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium where sh from all over the world’s oceans and rivers are on display. Find more local museums on p. 40.

Photos courtesy Shutterstock, Wonders of Wildlife

Check out the Humanities, Vol. 2 collection at the Springfield Art Museum.

best museums to VISIT IN 417-LAND

Take in something new this winter by learning about the culture and history of the Ozarks at these local museums.

BY MICHELLE LEWIS

Photo by Andie Bottrell

SPRINGFIELD

ART MUSEUM

1111 E. Brookside Drive, Springfield; 417-837-5700

The Springfield rt useum has a permanent collection featuring works from artists around the world. Rotating and traveling e hibitions are always moving in and out of the museum which means there s always something new to view when you visit.

Must-See Exhibit This Month: Humanities ol.

2

HISTORY MUSEUM ON THE SQUARE

154 Park Central Square, Springfield; 417-831-1976

Take a ourney through time at the History useum on the Square. See the story of Springfield unfold as you walk through galleries featuring the history of the land and the people who made the city what it is today.

Must-See Exhibit This Month: Wild Bill Hickok & The merican est

3

WONDERS OF WILDLIFE NATIONAL MUSEUM & AQUARIUM

500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield; 888-222-6060

Travel around the world and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature during any season at on ders of ildlife ational useum quarium. alk through e hibits and galleries full of elab orate diorama style wildlife habitats and see live creatures on display from the world s oceans and rivers. nd don t miss a chance to feed the sting rays while you re there.

Must-See Exhibit This Month: ature s Best Pho tography E hibit

4

ANCIENT OZARKS NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale; 417-339-5306

See the huge mastodon and short toothed bear skeletons to see some of the creatures that used to roam these lands. nd through the numerous halls of ative merican artifacts you can get to know the tribes who lived throughout issouri.

Must-See Exhibit This Month: braham Lincoln s hair preserved within a locket

5 MISSOURI INSTITUTE OF NATURAL SCIENCE

2327 W. Farm Road 190, Springfield; 417-883-0594

iscover prehistoric wonders when you visit the issouri nstitute of atural Science. onstructed after the accidental discovery of a perfectly pre served cave from the ice age this museum holds hundreds of artifacts and specimens. lthough the cave is closed to the public the institute s grounds hold an area that allows visitors to e perience searching for fossils firsthand.

Must-See Exhibit This Month: The Triceratops

URRE TS

BEH THE S E ES

LET’S

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Our team strives to provide a variety of services and a one-stop-shop experience that will boost your selfconfidence and leave you feeling your best. Before After bellamedici.com | 417.551.4541 2209 Petrus Circle | Ozark

42 417 MAGAZINE • 417MAG.COM

LOGAN AGUIRRE

Publisher

VP of Operations was a high school freshman ly High lendale alcons and doing all the firsts of a high school e perience.

KATHY GRIEVE

Editorial Director t nearly years old was in St. Louis slinging eans at merican Eagle cheering for the St. Louis Blues and learning to drive in a hevy stro van.

Account Services Manager was living in Bentonville and was very busy helping run real estate and property manage ment companies while also running a catering business.

was married and pregnant with my one and only. Listen ing to music from bands like The oo oo olls astball and Smashmouth.

Creative

was living my best year old life. was a regular tomboy and loved getting outside. y favorite hobby at the time was catching tadpoles in our pond.

Photos by Leah Stiefermann Brandon lms

MEGAN JOHNSON

SARAH PATTON

Director

AMMIE SCOTT MOTES VP Strategy Senior Account Executive

KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

was a i ou freshman freshly initiated as an lpha elta Pi and making all the life choices that result in the freshman .

T S S TH ERS RY H T

staff poll

“I learned there are so many amazing things in 417 to do! After living here for seven years, I thought I knew about most of the exciting things 417-land has to o er but working on the feature story told me otherwise.”—Editorial Designer Grace Chipley (read “25 Ways to Fall in Love with 417” on p. 88)

“Writing for this issue I found the perfect hidden sledding spots I can’t wait to try.”—Research Editor Jo Jolliff (read All Downhill From Here on p. 78)

“I learned that futurist Seth Harrell has performed as one of the Liverpool Legends in the past. Somehow, I’ve never seen this Beatles tribute band perform, but when they return to Branson, I plan on making it happen!” Biz 417 Editor Lucie Amberg (read Thinking Ahead on p. 55)

“In reporting on this month’s Giving Back story, I learned about an impressive network of organizations that are helping to keep our unhoused neighbors safe and warm during the coldest months of the year.” Engagement Editor Colin Shea Denniston (read A Network for Need on . 61)

“I learned that you don’t need pie crust to make a killer quiche—hashbrowns do the trick too.”—Editorial Director Katie Pollock Estes (read Wakey-Wakey on p. 112)

“I learned that the awesome workshops and classes. ”—Photographer Leah Stiefermann (read “Plant One On Me” on . 45)

The 417 Magazine sta has been reminiscing about old issues that have inspired many giggles. Needless to say, design, style and photography have changed a lot over the last 25 years. Regardless of our updated look, our mission of sharing the best parts of 417-land will always remain the same.

the buzz

A little vocab lesson straight from 1998.

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

As we started making plans for 417 Magazine’s 25th anniversary in 2023, we thought it’d be fun to take a look at our very rst issue (January 1998) to see what we were up to back then. The stories were a bit more hard-hitting—we opened with a cover feature about prescribing antide-

pressants to kids—but our favorite item was a list of the “Top 10 Buzzwords for 1998.” It was an unexpected read and a bit of a time capsule. So we thought we’d play a little game of “Did it age well?” and share a few of our lighthearted suggestions for 2023 buzzwords. Meet us right back here in 2048 to do this again?

19982023

1. Clanning pparently this means hanging out with your friends. e have never heard this term and are pretty glad it didn t catch on.

2. The Greenhouse

The description for this one reads Bob oble s south side eatery isn t even a year old already it s consid ered a city fi ture. Oof. fi ture for how long

3. Bleeding-edge

This describes a h computer processor as ear bleedingly fast. Today it s mind numbingly slow.

4. Zyban

t s a smoking cessation drug that was originally marketed as the antidepressant ellbutrin.

5. Issues

These are issues as in problems. inally a term we still use

6. Four-twenty aybe is when this term for the perfect time to smoke mari uana really took o .

7. WWJD

Remember the wristbands So many wristbands.

8. Rain events

This term references Brandon Beck so it still applies

9. Channel 851 pparently the rise of digital cable how quaint also brought the adult channel Spice to Springfield. The e planation reads E pect a lot of surreptitious references among the otherwise straightlaced set.

1. Stanning on t ask us about the etymology of this word because we are too old to know. But we do stan— particularly Harry Styles.

2. Greenhouse e can all agree that anything called a green house in would win favor among en plant moms. aybe Bob oble was onto something

3. iPhone 14 Pro e see your little processor and we raise you four en tire cameras on our hand held everything machines.

4.

Fresh Air

The Springfield Smokefree ir ct has been going strong fro more than years. hhhh... we love it.

5. Issues

Speaking of issues this edition is our th issue of 417 Magazine

6. 4:20 e ll ust update the style but keep the spirit—it s legal in issouri now after all.

7. WWDPD hat would olly Parton do e re counting on this beloved national treasure to guide us.

8. Droughts mean we don t like it but it s not inaccurate.

9. HBO Max

Or Hulu or et i or whichever streaming ser vice is showing whichever series we all can t stop talking about. Our money s on pple T as soon as the second season of Severance comes out.

A roundup of the best indoor activities to keep you busy (and warm) this winter.

BY THE EDITORS

YOU GLOW GIRL

Make your home extra warm and cozy this winter by making a custom candle at Heirloom Candle Bar.

agenda seize

et a group of your closest friends together to take a trip to Heirloom Candle Bar (1423 E. Cherry St., Suite 101, Springfield; 417-590-7111, heirloomcandlebar.com) where you can partake in a candle making class. hoose to make a candle unique for your own home or as a homemade gift start by selecting your container depending on your style and then place your wick. You ll then choose your favorite scents to blend. hether you re looking for a warm and co y scent or for more of a clean and crisp vibe their collection will help you find what you re looking for. You ll then pour your can dle and finish the process and be able to go home with a special homemade candle to en oy.

THE CLAY

Keep your kids (and yourself) from going stir crazy by getting out of the house with a trip to a local pottery shop to paint to your heart’s content.

JUMP AROUND

If you’re stuck at home with rambunctious little ones, help them get their energy out at Urban Air Adventure Park S. lenstone ve. Springfield urbanair.com Here you can let them loose to jump, climb, race and everything else you don’t want happening inside your home. This indoor adventure park caters to all levels of adventurers from tiny tots looking to explore jungle gyms to mini adrenaline junkies looking to zipline and walk across ropes courses.

ARTISTREE

1423 E. Cherry St., Suite 103, Springfield; 417-368-0004; artistreepottery.com

FIREHOUSE POTTERY 4150 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; 417881-8381; firehousepottery.com

Plant One on Me

The Plant Room in Spring eld is offering a wide variety of classes you can partake in to get in touch with your crafting side and indulge your inner green thumb at the same time.

hether you re a bona fide plant mom or are looking to improve your skills The Plant Room (1349 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield; 417-893-0054; shoptheplantroom.com) has a calendar full of activities for the month of anuary. oin them on anuary for a Soil Bar orkshop where you ll learn everything you need to keep your indoor plants happy and healthy. They will also host a okedama orkshop where you can make your own planted okedama ball. Then on anuary there are oss Pole and ounting orkshops. On the th they re o ering a Terrarium Building orkshop and on the th a acrame Plant Hanger orkshop. or prices and more information go to shoptheplantroom.com.

VILLAGE POTTERY CAFE

127 S. Walnut Ave., Republic; 417-7327272; villagepotterycafe.com

CREAVA STUDIO

1637 E. St. Louis St., Springfield; 417880-3531; creavastudio.com

ART ZONE

107 Aldersgate Drive 6, Nixa; 417224-9816; artzonenixa.com

Since 1905, six generati ons of our family have provided premium funeral and cremati on services to the residents of 417-land. Families come to us for many reasons, but most of all, because they know our professional staff will provide the comfort and guidance they need during a diffi cult ti me.

We take the ti me to get to know every family we serve so we can create a meaningful service that pays tribute to their loved one and all that matt ered to them. A lot has changed since we fi rst opened our doors over a century ago, but our commitment to our community and the families we serve remains the same.

As the largest funeral home in the area and an integral part of the community, Greenlawn Funeral Home offers traditi onal funerals, cremati on opti ons, fl owers, monuments, vaults and more. With more than 850 years of combined funeral service experience, our team has a reputati on for exceeding expectati ons through personalizati on and att enti on to detail. Whether we’re handling the intricacies of planning a fi nal farewell, the opti ons of a fi nal resti ng place or the technical aspects of a cremati on, you can trust our expert staff to serve with dignifi ed professionalism.

alongside you and your family

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

When my DJ/Event Host journey began 15+ years ago, I never could have imagined I’d have the opportunity to grow with a talented team of award-winning performers. We all believe in creating one-of-a-kind, extraordinary experiences throughout 417-land. The way we see it, every moment is an opportunity to create meaningful memories through music, laughter and dancing. And we bring more than phenomenal music to the party. We’re entertainers, dream-builders, party enthusiasts, movers and shakers. We craft custom experiences that are uniquely personal, never cookie-cutter and always extraordinary with DJ/Event

Host services, professional musicians, modern Selfie Mirrors, and eye-catching enhancements.

We are known for high-energy, world-class events that make a difference in people’s lives. Your guests will leave dreaming about your next event or wishing the night would never end. Simply put, we aim to make your event the single-most impactf ul night of your life, and we pour ourselves into creati ng an experience that makes your vision a reality. From cool and classy to high energy and electric, we’re ready to make your event dreams come true. Let’s create the best event of your life!

Photo by Brandon Alms

Photo by Leah Siefermann

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

FACE OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Ascend Dental Design

Our team at Ascend Dental Design trains continuously at the highest level to offer 417-land the most advanced techniques available in dentistry ranging from general to cosmetic and regenerative services. Patients’ needs are put front and center in a customized planning process. Our doctors and staff take the time to listen to your goals or concerns first, then treat second. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, we offer patients an array of options to choose from.

When you’re at Ascend Dental Design, you won’t feel judged or ignored, especially if you struggle with anxious feelings. We offer plenty of options to get ahead of your

dental anxiety, from laughing gas to soft, warm blankets and encouragement. You will receive patience and compassion when you walk through our doors and you can feel confident that you have found your lifelong dental family.

Dr. Dorman, Dr. Magers and our entire team believe patients deserve the very best and utilize the latest technology to deliver personalized and natural results. We care about providing an in-the-chair experience that puts your needs and comfort at the center of your oral health.

If you appreciate quality, attention to detail and worldclass customer service, look no further than Ascend Dental Design.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Nu Essence Spa

Health and wellness are often grounded by a relaxed mind and body. Nu Essence Spa recently celebrated 15 years of offering premium spa experiences in 417-land, and I am proud of our growth over the years to having a highly skilled staff of over 40 professionals.

Our expansive spa offers all of the most luxurious services to help you glow and feel rejuvenated. You will be immersed in tranquility with plush robes, a quiet room with coffee and snacks and an eight-room locker room to

spread out. With our extensive staff, we are easily able to accommodate groups and private events, couples, birthdays, retreats or bridal parties. Grab the girls and experience why we have been named “Best of 417” 10 times.

Springfield is my home and where I grew up. I love to invest in the community that has invested so much in me and Nu Essence is a way for me to do this. I love my team and my staff works hard to provide quality services to every client who walks through our doors every day.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

FACE OF WINDOW COVERINGS

Bloomin’ Blinds

If your blinds aren’t becoming to you, they should be coming to us! Your windows set the tone for your entire home. What message do yours send? At Bloomin’ Blinds, all of our custom window blinds, shades and shutters are made by top manufacturers to guarantee you get a beautiful final product. Each type of window treatment has its own unique features to enhance the look and comfort of your space. Our Window Visualizer, Free Estimates and In-Home Blinds Consultation make buying your window treatments a great experience. By choosing us, you’ll have access to the best new blinds, shades, and shutters on the market. Whether your window coverings are

in need of repair or total replacement, Bloomin’ Blinds has you covered!

As a family owned small business based right out of Ozark we understand family values and the importance of integrity, honesty and courtesy in what we provide for our customers throughout the entire Springfield/Branson area. Our blinds, shades and shutters are chosen to include a blend of the best price and quality. Whether you need blinds installed or repaired, Bloomin’ Blinds can help! Providing quality, mobile blind service that you can trust.

Call us at 417-581-1999 to schedule an on-site visit today!

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Ready to make a big-impact upgrade to a part of your home you might not have thought about? Transform your plain or stained garage fl oor into an instant showcase area with an epoxy coati ng system professionally installed by the Garage Experts. Our high quality, “direct to concrete epoxy” product wicks deep into the concrete, forming an extremely strong bond that is guaranteed with a 10-year warranty not to peel or fl ake. Plus, our high quality top coats leave a bright fi nish that is extremely durable and easy to clean and maintain.

Now that you’re out there dreaming of what

your garage fl oor could be, are you noti cing a need to fi nd a soluti on for the clutt er? We also offer our own line of custom storage cabinets and organizing systems designed to match your new fl oor, making one of the highest traffi c areas of your home both beauti ful and functi onal.

We are passionate about revitalizing any unattracti ve or clutt ered garage, basement or pati o in 417-land. With over 100 different custom fl akes to choose from, we can create a variety of color combinati ons that fi t perfectly with your needs and personal style in a cost-effecti ve way.

Photo by Josh Beecher

If you are feeling like the road to achieving ideal weight loss and overall health is a never-ending uphill climb, you are not alone. Sometimes, no matter how hard you work, the scale doesn’t reflect your latest diet or exercise regimen. But it doesn’t have to be that way anymore. Matthew Simpson, MD and Timothy Woods, MD have won top doctor awards multiple years and offer foregut surgery, bariatric surgery and weight loss management at CoxHealth.

Their facility was one of the first in the country to send patients home the same day as surgery and offer multiple options, often using laparoscopic techniques, including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, duodenal switch and modified duodenal switch. The dedicated physicians and nursing staff walk you through your weight loss journey to optimize your experience and longevity of results. Their support for their patients extends beyond surgery, offering support groups for before and after surgery as well as nutritional and psychological counseling to best serve patients.

The best piece of advice they can give to those struggling with weight loss is, do not wait. Time and time again they hear patients say, “I wish I had not waited 5 or 10 years to do this surgery.”

Join those who have experienced excess weight loss greater than 90 percent, and have had resolution or significant improvement of Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea.

The time is now to start your new life!

Timothy Woods, MD, Matthew Simpson, MD

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Photo by Brandon Alms

THINKING AHEAD

Last year, 417-lander Seth Harrell was selected as an emerging fellow by the Association of Professional Futurists and attended the rst-ever Dubai Future Forum. We sat down to learn about his eld and his experiences— and the future of 417-land.

BY LUCIE AMBERG

417 Magazine: “Futurist” may be an unfamiliar term for some people. How do you describe what you do?

Seth Harrell: The easiest way to describe it is to note that the uncertainty of the future is increas-

ing. My job is to decrease the amount of uncertainty. My role is not to predict anything; we try to stay away from that. Most businesses focus on a three to five year strategic plan. t s easier to make a five year plan if you re looking years out. But how do you do that when things are so uncertain? Once you get to the five year mark data isn t quite as useful because uncertainty becomes so great at that point. That s where people like me ump in. Things will still be uncertain but we know the un derlying drivers in the world creating change.

417: H SH: grew up in Springfield. remember the ision Pro ect that resulted in downtown being re developed and great things like ordan alley Park. was young at the time and it opened my eyes that people were focusing on the long-term. Even in high school remember sitting in history class and wondering why we didn t also have a class about the future. That seemed just as important as a history class to me since as a teenage student was going to be living in that future. nd then when was an undergrad at issouri State

was a geography ma or which introduced me to systems thinking.

417: Last fall, you attended the Dubai Future Forum at the new Museum of the Future in Dubai. Was there a top insight that you came home with?

SH: Every panel wound up talking about borders. What are borders going to mean in the future? Digital technologies are allowing organizations to e ist in non traditional ways. e re used to think ing: “On this side of the border is one thing; on the other side of the border is another thing.

417: How can we think about ourselves as being S

SH: One of the guiding quotes we live by is The future lives on the edges of things. hat that means is that any time you find the edges— whether it s two groups of people or two technolo gies that are butting up against each other—that s where interesting stu starts to happen. That can then filter out to the rest of the world and create the future. f you want to find the future now— where things will be in years—find the edges of things. Springfield is a transportation hub. e re centrally located in a circle that includes St. Louis ansas ity Tulsa Little Rock and emphis and because of that we get a lot of tra c and eco nomic activity coming from outside. Springfield has a history of being innovative in transportation. Everyone knows about the history of Route and the innovations of diverging diamonds and things like that. f we want to evaluate Springfield in the future would say here in Springfield is there an interesting interplay of business technology and culture? Where are we on the edge of two cultures technologies or types of business

isit 417mag.com to read our full conversation with Seth Harrell. MORE

IMAGINE

f you ve en oyed Liverpool Legends the live Beatles tribute show you may have seen Seth Harrell perform. few years ago he met Louise Harrison the sister of eorge Harrison and the founder of Liverpool Legends at Biz 417 s Think Summit. The two had a point of connection: When Harrell sings he ust happens to sound like ohn Lennon. ithin a month of that meeting was performing in Branson and doing cruises and that kind of thing Harrell says. t s funny because was playing Lennon who s famous for writing magine and in my professional career that s literally what m asking people to do—to imagine things about the future.

Futurist Seth Harrell puts his focus ahead by helping businesses focus on making strategic plans.

while away the winter in ST. LOUIS

Everyone wants to stay warm with indoor fun when it’s chilly out, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay in town. This year, take a short trip to St. Louis to nd unforgettable indoor experiences.

BY MICHELLE LEWIS

1

ARMORY

3660 Market Street, St. Louis, 314-282-2720, armorystl.com illing square feet in a historic building the rmory is unlike any other entertainment venue. The space features a two story slide one of the largest video screens in the city that plays sports and other entertainment and a variety of games including table tennis Snookball and horseshoes.

2 CITY MUSEUM 

750 N. 16th St., St. Louis, 314-231-2489, citymuseum.org

The fun that the ity useum o ers is not ust for kids. The entire building is an evolving art installation that holds features that double as a playground. ith a total of over slides any one of any age can find a slide for them. isit the th century cabin on the first oor that holds a full bar.

Springfield's Best has been supporting local businesses since 1994. Our membership includes a variety of the most well respected and established businesses in southwest Missouri that are known for their community involvement and trustworthiness.

Springfield's Best encourages the consumer public to conduct business with these reputable, locally owned or managed companies that operate with honesty, integrity and ethical behavior, and to support the Springfield community by keeping their dollars in the Springfield economy.

Learn more about these local reputable businesses at springfieldsbest.com/directory.htm

Photo courtesy City Museum

3 WESTPORT SOCIAL 

910 W. Port Plaza Drive, St. Louis, 314-548-2876, westportsocial-stl.com

hether you want to watch a game or hang out estport Social provides a fun and friendly at mosphere for any meal. Westport Social is more than ust the menu though the lounge provides friendly competition with a variety of indoor games including bocce ball and hoops. But note after p.m. the restaurant becomes .

4 UP-DOWN 

405 N. Euclid St., St. Louis, 314-449-1742, updownarcadebar.com/st-louis

End your day of fun slinging pinball machines and throwing skee balls at St. Louis rcade Bar. Up own features more than arcade games from the s and s intendo gaming and life si e enga. hen you end up wanting a late snack the bar serves house made pi a with unique toppings.

WINE AND SPIRITS

5 THE EDGE

701 S. Bell West, Belleville, Illinois, 618-236-2101, edge618.com

hile not technically in St. Louis we think The Edge s status of holding the largest laser tag arena in the world makes it worth the visit while you are in the St. Louis area. t square feet Laser Rock is unlike any other laser tag ad venture you ve ever e perienced. eel like a kid again as you race through swirling fog.

From high end bourbons to local brews, we’re aiming to make your life better.

treat YOURSELF

With the holidays over and the new year excitement fading, it’s easy to fall into a winter slump. And as much as I’d like to think spring is just around the corner, we’ve still got a few more months of ghting these cold weather blues. In need of a little pick-me-up?

The booming wellness industry is here and ready to take you from drab to fab. Whether it’s stocking up on skincare or splurging on that luxury pajama set, it’s time to snuggle up with some self-care.

—Colin Shea Denniston, Style Editor

“Having live plants in your house can help boost your mood during the dreary winter months. Just remember to keep them (and yourself) hydrated.”

Denniston

Photos by Brandon Alms

immortalize YOUR PET

Several local artists offer handmade pet portraits perfect for any home.

BY MICHELLE LEWIS

Custom pet portraits have grown increasingly popular, allowing families and friends to honor their pets in lasting ways. These portraits can be given as meaningful gifts to those with animals who have passed or to that friend who has everything. Delaney Willard (facebook.com/delaneywillardart) is a local artist who creates custom watercolor pet portraits. Willard’s pet portraits

are hand painted in a simple style and neutral tones to complement any decor. If you are aiming for a more playful and modern look, Hannah Bunch (hannahlannaebunch.com) creates boldly colorful and stylized acrylic portraits. For those with more rustic homes, Kirristen Shore with Kirri Lynn Designs (kirrilynndesigns. com) creates custom wood burned and painted portraits of pets.

Pet portraits are the perfect way to capture the personality of your fourlegged besties.

Hannah Bunch s pet portraits are full of rich vibrant colors.

elaney illard works with digital watercolor brushes that make the strokes look and act like paint.

ood burning adds te ture to irristen Shore s work.

breathe in BREATHE OUT

Salt rooms are a trendy self-care experience perfect for a mid-winter indulgence. We found three local spots that offer this therapeutic experience.

BY MARIAH HUNTER

Treat yourself right and relax in a salt room, a spa treatment that’s said to holistically and naturally heal your body inside and out—from your lungs to your skin. Salt room fans point to many benefits to the experience, such as relieving everyday respiratory symptoms, and easing effects of eczema and other skin conditions.

In a salt room, a halogenerator dispenses and grinds 99.97% pure grade sodium chloride (salt) into the tiniest particles that are dispensed into a room.

During your visit, the halogenerator does all the work, and your job is to just sit, relax and breath in the seaside-esque air.

Owner Hannah Harris at the Salt Water Well (916 N Main St. Ste 8, Nixa, 417-422-3033, saltwaterwellstudio.com) described the particles as finer than strands of hair. Harris says the first salt rooms were started in Florida, but now the trend has made its way to Missouri, and now there are a handful of salt rooms here in 417-land.

There are many reasons 417-landers are gravitating toward the spa experience of a salt room. Not only do users talk about the

health and skin benefits they enjoy, they also point to the overall relaxing atmosphere and spa-like experience of spending time in a warm salt room.

The Salt Water Well isn’t the only spot in 417-land where you can try a salt room. A couple other local spas and businesses offer the service as well.

In addition to its Halo Therapy Salt Room, Acacia Spa (4058 S Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-823-8318, acaciaspa.com) also offers a full menu of spa services, infrared saunas and a couple’s retreat steam shower unique from the other places in 417-land.

Another salt room location in 417-land, Breathe Health Spa ( 1730 E Republic Rd, Suite R, Springfield, 417-881-7258, breathehealthspa. com ), offers zero gravity chairs and a comforting experience in a friendly and peaceful environment.

This winter is the perfect time to delve into the southern Florida vibe and reap the ample benefits of a salt room. Whether it’s to combat some symptoms of winter allergies or to take some time for yourself and slow down, salt rooms are the place to be.

A Network for Need

BY COLIN SHEA DENNISTON

With coordination through the Community Partnership of the Ozarks, the Ozarks Alliance to End Homelessness has created a network of crisis cold weather shelters, bringing together local faith-based and not-for-pro t organizations to provide shelter to vulnerable members of the 417-land community.

According to Adam Bodendieck, Director of Homeless Services for the Community Partnership of the Ozarks, the shelters can see up to 200 individuals on the coldest nights of the year. The CPO and Ozarks Alliance to End Homelessness partnership has helped to streamline certain overarching issues like volunteer recruitment, conducting trainings and coordinating pick-up and transportation.

“We work with city utilities transit and then our own shuttle to provide transportation to and from the shelters [and] coordinate with various meal site providers to make sure that folks are getting dinner as part of the process,” says Bodendieck.

HOW TO HELP

nterested in learning more about volunteer opportunities or for ways you can support the unsheltered population in land Bodendieck suggests starting with a visit to the ommunity Partnership of the O arks crisis cold weather shelter website cpo arks org programs ccws. t s a good way to get plugged in because there s no shortage of opportunities Bodendieck says.

A coalition of local organizations provides shelter for our unhoused neighbors during the coldest months.

ELL ESS

JANUARY CALENDAR

MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY MEN’S BASKETBALL

JANUARY 1, 4, 15, 21, 24

Sit in the stands in the newly named reat Southern Bank rena to cheer on the Bears this month as they take the court.

$10–45; Times vary; Great Southern Bank Arena, 685 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield. For tickets and more information visit missouristatebears.com.

METROPOLITAN WEDDING EXPO

JANUARY 8

isit the largest wedding event in Southwest issouri and talk with local professionals and vendors who can help you prepare for your big day. A fashion show featuring the best bridal shops in land will kick o the day.

7 in advance, 10 at the door; Fashion show at 10 a.m., Wedding expo 11 a.m.–3 p.m.; Springfield Expo Center, 635 Saint Louis Street, Springfield. For registration visit metropolitanweddings.com.

Photos courtesy etropolitan edding

issouri State University

TOOTSIE

JANUARY 10–12

Full of comedy and tributes to the world of musical theatre Tootsie tells the story of a talent ed actor who struggles to land jobs because of his history of being unpredictable. One final act of desperation lands Michael Dorsey a role that just might change his entire career.

$30–99; Times vary; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield. For tickets and more information visit springfieldmosymphony.org.

BASS PRO TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS

JANUARY 12–14

s the nation s most attended high school bas ketball tournament the Tournament of hampi ons features the best local and national ranked teams in a weekend long competition unlike any other.

$10–36; Great Southern Bank Arena, 685 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield. For more information visit tofc.weebly.com.

SAM JAY

JANUARY 12–14

Emmy nominated writer for Saturday ight Live Sam ay can currently be seen on HBO s Pause with Sam ay a weekly late night series. She is known for observational comedy about real conversations and relationships.

20–30; Times vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield. For tickets and more information visit blueroomcomedyclub.com.

THE GREAT LOVER

JANUARY 14

Witness the world premiere of Daijana Wallace s Rhapsody for cello and orchestra fea

turing Springfield s own principal cellist aniel etter. Sibelius s Second Symphony a sympho ny full of moving and profound confessions of the soul will be paired with the Rhapsody.

Single tickets $25–50; Show starts 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield. For tickets and more information visit springfieldmosymphony.org.

DAVID KOECHNER

JANUARY 20 & 21

ost known for his role as Todd Packer on The O ce avid oechner is a native of issouri. ith the long list of films and shows oechner has been in you are sure to en oy his show as he visits the Blue Room omedy lub in Spring field. or fans of The O ce the comedy club is hosting special trivia events with oechner during the afternoon before his specials.

$30–35; Trivia event 3 p.m., Koechner’s shows 6 30 p.m. and 9 15 p.m.; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield. For tickets and more information visit blueroomcomedyclub.com.

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG

JANUARY 27–FEBRUARY 12

Building a car that could y was not what ar actacus Potts expected when he set out to restore an old race car with his children. When word gets out that such a car e ists evil Baron Bomburst and his henchmen set out to take the car and its magical properties for themselves. Follow Potts and his family as they create the otherworldly invention and work to outwit the forces of evil.

17–37; Springfield Little Theatre, 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield. For tickets and more information visit springfieldlittletheatre.com.

LAKE LIFE EXPO

JANUARY 27–29

reaming of warm weather and summer lake days hile you re waiting on the tempera tures to rise find everything you ll need to make it the summer of your dreams at the Lake Life Expo.

Free admission; Springfield Expo Center, 635 E. St. Louis St., Springfield. For more information visit lakelifeexpo.com.

CHAPEL HART: GLORY DAYS TOUR

JANUARY 28

Sisters anica and evynn Hart and their cous in Trea Swindle bring their country music stylings to the illio this month along with spe cial guests Lucas Hoge and Rosevelt. f you opt for P tickets you ll get a seat in one of the front rows a soundcheck sneak peek and ac cess to a pre-show meet-and-greet Q&A.

29–59; 8 p.m., Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E., Springfield, 417-863-9491, gillioztheatre.com

Photos courtesy Shutterstock illio Theatre

CPI Technologies is the Ozarks’ leading supplier of office technology solutions and has been family-owned and operated since 1963.

Your office’s efficiency largely relies upon the systems that comprise your business. Make sure your office is up to speed and has access to the latest advances in technology with CPI Technologies. For example, with today’s increase in employees working remotely, VoIP phones and managed network offerings have been extremely popular products keeping our clients connected. We have also seen an influx in mailing equipment along with interactive boards, and our team is dominating in office printing equipment.

At CPI we believe that an open, honest partnership with our clients is the best approach to serving their needs. Our Mission is to continually strive toward developing trust and loyalty in our customers by providing top quality technology, superior technical support, professionalism and customer service long after the sale. Our highly trained staff can provide a broad-spectrum analysis at no charge to determine where we can help our clients save time and money.

Increasing productivity and reducing costs for our business partners is our highest priority. CPI is proud to be the Face of Office Technology Solutions in 417-land.

Photo by Brandon Alms

Donco 3 Construction, LLC, a state-certified Women’s Business Enterprise, opened in 2010 as a family owned and operated subcontractor for large concrete projects. Our team is our greatest and most valuable resource, so our commitment to our team is to provide a safe and thriving work environment for each team member to grow and advance in skill and leadership in the concrete industry.

Our use of cutting-edge concrete technology and access to expert workmanship allow us to excavate, form, pour, place and finish structural concrete. Our services result in paving, sidewalks, curbs, walls and the environ-

mentally friendly integration of pervious concrete. We also offer pump truck and laser screed services flat or 3D.

Over the last few years, there has been a steady decline in the local concrete workforce. In an effort to try and re-energize the talent pool of skilled workers in our trade, we used our expertise to partner with Ozarks Technical Community College and another local concrete subcontractor to create a concrete worker apprenticeship program that launched in the fall of 2022 at OTC. Through this apprenticeship program we hope to leave a legacy by giving back to an industry that has given so much to us.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

6-17

provide a safe place and

for children to stabilize and return to their communities. Our hospital strives to use progressive approaches and interventions that are patient centered. We promote healing and crisis stabilization in our patients’ daily lives. This falls in line with the mission and integrity of Perimeter Healthcare for those we serve. At Perimeter, we assess, evaluate and review the

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

On behalf of the entire team at Wampler & Passanise, we are proud to provide unmatched experience in defense of juveniles and adults facing serious criminal allegations at the federal, state, and municipal court levels. Our experienced team of legal professionals provides clients with winning defense strategies for the most serious criminal charges, including homicide, drugs and weapons offenses, fraud, embezzlement, white-collar crime, felony DUI/DWI, and crimes involving domestic violence and burglary. A key point of difference is our team approach to cases and experience litigating in the courtroom.

Our firm is led by Managing Partner Joseph S. Passanise, a Fellow of the American Board of Criminal

Lawyers. Passanise was recognized by Best Lawyers® 2023 Edition for Criminal Defense General Practice, White-Collar, and DUI/DWI. He serves on the Missouri Board of Tourism.

Associate Attorney Taylon M. Sumners has been recognized by Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch for Criminal Defense and in the Up-and-Coming category by Missouri Lawyers in 2022.

Collectively, our firm was also recognized in U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers® Best Law Firms for 2023 and recognized among the region’s best criminal defense firms by Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers, AVVO, the National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Lorenz began in 1978 and has grown into a thriving business with over 60 employees. We know what it takes to succeed in an industry where customer satisfaction is everything. Our goal is to provide excellent workmanship, consistent service and fair prices.

Mike Lorenz Polino, owner of Lorenz Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, is a Springfield native and began working in the plumbing industry when he was 15 years old. He was fortunate to work alongside family, which led him to where he is today. Over that time, we have worked extensively in new construction including custom homes, apartment

Photo courtesy Lorenz Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning

Community lives at the heart of OMB. It informs every decision we make, from business and agri-business loans to home mortgages and the best in digital banking services. While we believe in old-fashioned customer support, we welcome new technologies that streamline our customers’ day-to-day transactions and make your banking more convenient.

It’s a steadfast commitment to excellent service and strong relationships for nearly 25 years, where customers are people and not simply account numbers. Community means a lot to us at OMB, so we’re proud to say that decisions are made right here locally,

in our bank and in the communities we serve. With teams that work closely togther right here in the Ozarks, we’re able to serve all of our personal, commercial, mortgage and digital customers faster and more efficiently.

At OMB, we’re loyally dedicated to providing the best banking experience for everyone and to helping build bright futures for the people and businesses we serve. It’s what we mean by community banking made better. We invest in our community because we live here, too. We’re proud to remain your trusted, locally owned community bank.

Jordan

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Participating in a PS Missouri clinical research study can mean a lot of different things to a lot of different people. One thing it means for all of us is the improved safety of investigational drugs and products being tested. That’s the PS Effect.

Since opening our doors to the Springfield community in 1994, PS Missouri has conducted over 2,000 FDA-regulated clinical research studies and have paid out more than $50 Million to our participants. Our local campus is a flagship site made up of four clinics, five fully functional labs, a State-of-the-Art Negative Pressure Room and a newly opened Screening and Recruitment Center.

Our mission is to accelerate drug development worldwide by creating breakthroughs in pharmaceutical innovation. We have an experienced staff dedicated to investigating new and exciting medicines while treating our participants with the care and respect they deserve.

As a leader in the industry, and one of the largest clinical research sites in the United States, we are always ready to take on any challenges that are brought to us by our clients, here or abroad.

Visit 417studies.com to learn more about clinical research studies at PS Missouri and become part of The PS Effect.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

FACE OF SURGICAL CANCER CARE

Charles E. Woodall, III, MD

From the moment you’re diagnosed with cancer, our job is to mobilize every available resource to help you win the fight. At CoxHealth, that includes innovative research, prevention and screening programs, education and support—all in a healing environment.

Pancreatic cancer is currently the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., but it is my goal to bring hope to the pancreatic cancer community here in 417-land at CoxHealth.

The difference between suffering from and surviving pancreatic cancer can be made with the right team.

With my help, local patients are treating pancreatic cancer earlier and with more success. I have over 13 years of surgical oncology experience, which can give my patients the assurance and peace of mind they need in an already worrisome time.

The importance of receiving specialized treatment from a physician with experience can’t be stressed enough. I can provide patients the expertise of being the only fellowship-trained surgical oncologist to treat the disease locally with the added convenience of being close to home.

Photo by Brandon Alms

falling IN LOVE

The beauty of 417-land waterfalls is only enhanced with the colder temps. Check out our roundup of the best hikes to catch a glimpse of these icy displays on p. 77.

cold AS ICE

Hiking can still be your favorite activity during the winter with these recommendations from local outdoors specialist Dan Nash of the best places to see frozen waterfalls this season.

BY MICHELLE LEWIS

GLORY HOLE FALLS

Not many waterfalls allow you to look up into their source, but the Glory Hole waterfall is created by a stream that ows through the ceiling of an overhanging cave and allows visitors to look through the water spilling into the cave. uring the winter this unique waterfall becomes even more special when the stream of water builds on itself as it free es creating almost a chandelier of ice. Serving more as a hidden gem the trailhead for this waterfall can be more di cult to find than others. n the O ark ational orest you can find the parking area for the trail along the highway between allsville and Edwards unction south of Bo ley Valley. The hike can be considered moderate to strenuous, and hikers should use caution when near the waterfall as the ground is slick.

EDEN FALLS

Eden alls showers over rocks and blu s for feet before spilling into a pool of water. n the winter the waterfall creates a path of ice that you ll have to see to believe. The beginning of Lost alley Trail provides an easy to moderate hike that is friendly for kids and beginner hikers. Before arriving to the breathtaking Eden alls hikers can see an foot waterfall pouring out of the blu s that is stunning on its own. Beginner hikers are encouraged to continue toward Eden alls but those who are more e perienced can use caution to wind their way up steep and slick steps to enter Eden alls cave and see the source of the waterfall.

LONG CREEK FALLS

The Hercules Glade Wilderness Area hosts some of the most scenic country in the idwest. Located miles northeast of Branson the area hosts solitude within the rocky hillsides and open grasslands. long Long reek hikers can find waterfalls that spill over large boulders. uring the warmer

months large pools can be seen beneath the falls. n the winter the area becomes a distinctive ice sculpture worth seeing. To go straight to the Long reek alls start at the Blair Ridge Trailhead. bout miles each way the trail provides a moderate hike through the wilderness of issouri and leads right to the area s waterfalls.

HEMMED-IN HO OW FA S

At 200 feet, Hemmed-In Hollow Falls is the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and ppalachians. ascading over O ark blu s there is no doubt this picturesque waterfall is beautiful during any season. However the temperatures that occur in

When hiking in cold weather, preparation is extremely important. Always dress in layers and pack supplies.

winter bring beauty to the falls unlike any other time of the year. As water pours into the hollow, sprays and splashes spread throughout the area. n the winter this results in a striking masterpiece of blu s and rocks painted with the cool colors of icicles. Hiking to Hemmed n Hollow is not a task for the beginner hiker. fter starting at the ompton Trailhead, hikers must hike into the hollow on steep declines and hike the same steep path out of the hollow facing almost feet in elevation gain. hile the alls are especially impressive during the winter the area s e tremely strenuous trail conditions require high levels of skill and high levels of preparation.

All Downhill from Here

If you want to go sledding this winter but don’t know where to begin, our roundup of the best local sledding spots is for you.

BY JO JOLLIFF

Pat Jones YMCA

31901 E. Republic Rd., Springfield

The Pat ones Y on East Republic has a long stretch of hill that circles around the soccer basin and gently slopes down. This wide stretch of land leaves plenty of room for all sledders no matter how busy it is, and the short-but-steep hills make for a quick rush of adrenaline without a long walk back up.

Doling Park

301 E. Talmage St., Springfield, oling Park is made up of slopes of all si es making this the perfect stop for families with thrill seekers and those looking to play it safe. t is also well-populated with trees so whether you’re an adrenaline junkie on a steep black diamond hill or a first time sledder on the bunny trail, be sure to choose a clear path.

Jordan Valley Park

635 E. Tra cway St., Springfield

ordan alley Park is a prime location for those seeking a chilly thrill. This park features a variety of hills perfect for all family members, both big and small with a steep slope near the intersection of S. ohn Hammons Parkway and East Tra cway Street and smaller hills throughout the park.

Ozark Community Branch Library

1005 N. 4th Ave., Ozark

The gentle slopes near the O ark ommunity Branch Library are perfect for smaller kiddos looking for a bit of independence to go down on their own. We also recommend popping inside beforehand to grab a few books to cozy up with when you’re done in the snow.

THE WILDERNESS NEARBY

Feel like you’re getting away from the city—even though you’re not—and plan a trip to the Spring eld Conservation Nature Center.

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

Sometimes all you need to refresh and feel renewed is to take in a zen moment in the middle of nature. But if you’re in need of that zen moment because of your busy life, then chances are you don’t have time to travel far to nd that perfect spot in the woods to reset. That’s why Spring eld Conservation Nature Center is one of our favorite local parks. It’s within city limits— located near the junction of Highway 65 and James River Freeway in southeast Spring eld—but once you enter the park you feel like you’re deep in the woods and far from the hustle and bustle.

Located on 80 wooded acres, the nature center has 3 miles of walking trails that take you through a variety of ecosystems, including prairies, glades and even a wooden boardwalk over a creek. It’s not uncommon to spot wildlife during your stroll. But our favorite isn’t the critters we can see; it’s the ones we can hear. Open your ears and you might hear birds chirping, squirrels chittering, a turtle splashing into the water or maybe even a fox racing through the

underbrush nearby. There are more than 170 species of wildlife in the area, so you’re sure to spot lots of local wildlife.

The nature center is open year-round, and the on-site nature center building is a great place to duck in from the cold during the winter months (or the blistering heat in the summer!) and learn a little something about our local ecosystems. Inside there are kid-friendly interactive exhibits, a bird-viewing window, a live snapping turtle and more—plus spaces used for hosting workshops or meeting up with sta for a guided hike.

So, are you ready for your moment of zen?

The Springfield Conservation Nature Center is open year-round, with plenty of winter wildlife to explore.

Plastic surgery is always evolving, and we take pride in keeping up with the latest procedures and technologies available.

Your neck is constantly in motion and the delicate skin on your neck is often the first place that age begins to reveal itself. Now you can restore a youthful jawline and neck with our newest procedure the Renuvion Necklift. Renuvion tightens loose skin by delivering energy to collagen fibers, without facelift incisions, and can be performed under local anesthesia.

Our PA, Kara Walker, can help optimize the results of your facial rejuvenation procedures with volume restoration, skin tightening with Pixel8-RF

Microneedling, NeoGen Plasma skin resurfacing and growth factor treatments. Patients across 417-land are seeing remarkable results from these innovative procedures. No more saggy skin, vertical bands, double chin fat or saggy jawline. Youthful, sculpted definition will be restored and will look natural.

Twenty-five years of experience has brought our team many awards ranging from 417 Magazine Best Plastic Surgeon and 417 Magazine Top Doctor to the Missourian Award and the Salute to Health Care Award. We strive to provide beautiful, natural results and a rewarding patient experience.

Call today to experience excellence and a more youthful appearance at Shah Plastic Surgery.

Photo by Brandon Alms

Is your Realtor recommended by business and real estate moguls like Barbara Corcoran from Shark Tank or Sean Hannity? Cantrell Real Estate right here in Springfield is!

When making a decision on who will be by your side throughout the entirety of your real estate transaction, it is crucial that you have someone who works for you that you trust.

For the last 30 years myself and my team have worked to become the top team and your local experts in 417-land. Our team includes over 40 highly trained professionals who sell homes faster and for more money. Our large national network and presence is unmatched.

Cantrell Real Estate represents the area’s finest properties with exceptional skill using the most innovative technologies and national marketing available. We offer ultimate privacy and security, speed and efficiency. Our years of experience have given us a clear understanding of the mindset of home buyers and sellers and a thorough understanding of local and National real estate.

Myself and the Realtors at Cantrell Real Estate care about our communities where we serve and live.

“We are your neighbors and would love to help your next transition be as smooth as possible.”

Learn more at www.cantrellre.com.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Someti mes a change of color can be all the space needs to give it the refresh you have been hoping for. Go bold with elaborate colors or stay professional with neutral shades; whatever your style, we can help you fi nd the perfect shade for your space.

We provide both interior and exterior painti ng services, and our clients have seen fi rsthand how a fresh coat of premium paint can revitalize a space.

When you work with us, you will quickly know that we’re proud to be your neighbors. As members of 417-land ourselves, we’re dedicated to always treati ng you and your property with the respect

you both deserve. Not only do we always arrive on ti me and provide top-quality results, we make sure that you’re always informed of our prices beforehand, so there’s no need to worry about last-minute fees or surprises once our job is complete. We take every step of the painti ng process seriously, from our preparati on process to the fi nal quality check. Your sati sfacti on truly is our number one goal. Call the professionals at Five Star Painti ng to start enjoying your freshly painted home sooner rather than later.

Photo by Brandon Alms

JMARK manages IT for our clients to protect their business and help them grow. We have clients in 43 states and are ranked as one of the Top 100 Security Providers in the world by MSSP Alert. We provide cybersecurity, network and server management, telecommunications, collaboration systems, help desk services, strategic technology planning and other essential technology solutions.

During our 35 years in business, we have developed partnerships with the most respected companies in technology, ensuring that we are uniquely positioned to help organizations who want to leverage technology to become more productive and profitable.

Everything we do reflects our “People First, Technology Second” approach. Our mission is to empower people to do work that facilitates growth, spurs innovation, increases opportunity and creates lasting success.

We create unrivaled technology outcomes that reduce risk, increase business velocity and let our clients focus on what matters. In fact, a third-party research study showed that JMARK clients enjoy 30 more hours of discretionary time each week.

We are honored to be recognized alongside the best of 417-land. We have called this area our home since 1988 and are proud to see it grow into a leading business and technology hub.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

At Kare Health & Wellness, we take a personalized approach to healthcare. We believe being healthy is not just being free of disease but rather living a life full of vitality. We value your story and experiences and provide hope for healing. We walk with you on your health journey offering personalized treatment options, education and support so that you are empowered in regaining your health.

We are proud to be one of the largest and most innovative Functional Medicine clinics in the United States. Keri Sutton, our Founder, has spent the last decade learning from the top minds in Functional Medicine. Her relentless dedication has brought innovations in integrative medi-

cine to 417-land from across the United States, Mexico, Germany and Malaysia.

We offer treatment of complex chronic diseases that few others treat such as Lyme Disease and cancer and also provide integrative treatment options for those with acute illnesses. It is rewarding to be a part of something bigger than any one person and to see our patients’ lives transformed. Finding ways to help every patient keeps us seeking innovative, alternative treatments we can offer right here in our community. We are proud to be the true face of Functional Medicine and the heartbeat of hope

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Did you know that Rick and Karen Hughlett founded Rick’s Automoti ve, Inc. in 1980, and what has become a multi -operati onal enterprise initi ally began with just two employees? Aft er decades of success, a new generati on of family members are now running the operati on—Rick and Karen’s daughter Kala and her husband Travis. Kala grew up watching her parents and has worked here for 16 years. Travis has worked his way up over the last 1 years to VP.

We started by working with local families on their personal vehicles and quickly grew to maintain ambulances for both local hospitals and fl eet vehicles for 150 local companies. Rick’s is also the Professional

No matt er how large

Our technicians are dedicated and make it a priority to stay up-to-date on the

Many have been on our team for 20 years and some even 0! We have worked hard to earn and keep the trust of our community, and we hope to do so for decades to come.

Photo by Brandon Alms

Greater Springfield Endodontics, specializing in root canal treatment, has been serving the community for 18 years.

Root canal (endodontic) treatment is a highly successful option for saving a tooth otherwise needing extraction. Drs. Massey and Mulherin utilize the most advanced technology, technique, and dental materials to achieve the best possible results.

The doctors’ shared vision is one of service—striving to provide a comfortable and relaxed experience for all patient appointments. Root canal treatment is typically completed in one, or on occasion two, appointments with a meticulous

Photo by Brandon Alms

Founded in 1966, KPM CPAs & Advisors is a top Midwestern firm, a top 300 firm in the U.S. and one of the largest locally owned CPA and advisory firms in southwest Missouri. With nearly 100 professionals, we have the depth of resources to provide a broad base of technical expertise, while also delivering the individualized attention our clients deserve.

ple. Through our community giving program, KPM CARES, we encourage team members to pursue community involvement through volunteer opportunities, charitable giving, civic engagement and professional memberships.

At KPM, we believe in providing client-centered solutions; staying apprised of industry trends, evolving tax laws and accounting regulations; and enriching the lives of our clients, communities and professionals.

ways to fall in love with 417-land

This year, 417 Magazine celebrates our 25th anniversary. That’s 25 years of writing about the best stuff in 417-land and sharing it with you. We knew the only way to honor this big birthday is to honor the whole entire reason we exist in the rst place: We seriously love 417-land. And you probably do too. But just in case you need a reminder of why this region is so wonderful, we put together a list of 25 ways to fall head over heels for this place we call home.

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

onders of ildlife 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE 89

att Turer Springfi eld ardinals Big edar Lodge

1relax on TABLE ROCK LAKE

There’s just something about this lake. It’s hard to describe it in words because, honestly, it’s mostly a feeling. Table Rock Lake feels like friends and family, like a lazy day in the Ozarks, like the best kind of summer fun. It’s popular enough to provide loads of marinas and places to rent boats and fun toys like wakeboards. But it’s quiet enough that you can enjoy those water sports or relax with a cove swim without sweating the boat tra c. The scenery at Table Rock Lake is unbeatable and those sparkling waters and surrounding Ozarks hills are gorgeous when viewed from the deck of a boat. The sprawling green-and-blue vistas still take our breath away after all these years. We love bringing out-of-town visitors to Table Rock Lake for the day because, without a doubt, it’s the quickest way for them to fall in love with this place too.

Photo by Sheri Holloway Photography

take in the sunset at TOP OF THE ROCK

Top of the Rock is like an Ozarks beauty gateway drug. You might not think you’re all that into the Ozarks mountains or the outdoors, but then you find yourself at Top of the Rock and are immediately wowed. It’s like all of the region’s natural quirks, all in one place: There’s a cave (with a bar inside, might we add), a sinkhole (hello, karst topography), a scenic golf course and the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum featuring Native American artifacts from the region. But the icing on the cake is the sunset view. Grab a seat on the Bu alo Bar patio or near the tall windows at Osage Restaurant, and watch the sun go down over Table Rock Lake. It’s a heart-swelling scene of natural beauty that we can’t get enough of.

float down a SPRING-FED STREAM

We don’t want to say this too loudly because it’s better for us all if the rest of the Midwest isn’t in on the secret: But we have the best rivers here in the Ozarks. Spring-fed streams wind around the hills and valleys past thick forest rocky blu s and plenty of beautiful ora and fauna. s you kayak along you re almost certain to spot a blue heron stopping to catch a fish or some turtles sunning themselves on a log. nd hopping o your kayak or canoe to plunge into the cold crystal clear water is like a baptism on a hot summer day. You’ll feel brand new. One of our favorites is the North Fork of the White River, with its quiet little rapids and its abundance of naturally breeding rainbow trout. For a setting that feels wild and remote, we recommend the Eleven Point River. And for something super-easy to access from Springfield the ames River is always a sure bet. But those are ust three of our favorite options. There are truly so many streams to explore.

have dinner with your neighbors at MILLSAP PIZZA NIGHT

When people explain why they love living in Springfield they often say it s because of the small-town feel with big-city amenities. nd we think illsap arm s Pi a ight fits the bill. It’s just a short few minutes north of the city bustle of Springfield but it feels like you’re in a quieter place from another time. A sweet little clearing in the trees features string lights and a stage for live music, and guests can relax with a plate of freshly made wood fired pi a as the night gets dark and the fire ies start to come out. t feels like community and country, all at once. Our recommendation: Bring a bottle of wine and your favorite friends, and let yourself slow down a little while you’re there. If you bring the kids, there’s even an area where they can run and play while you sip your malbec and listen to some tunes in the fresh air. Does it get any better than that?

ways

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, Chuck Travers, courtesy Shutterstock

5 party in THE STREET

It feels so good to experience Springfield with the community all around which is why we love all of the annual events that are essentially great big parties in the street. Every year on the first weekend in May, ArtsFest brings together booth after booth of juried artists’ work along Historic Walnut Street, along with live performances from local talent and some tasty street food. In September, a similar juried art exhibition takes place in the same spot, but Cider Days has a distinct fall vibe, tons of pumpkins and opportunities to indulge in the event’s namesake drink. Summertime brings Taste of SO O to Springfield s Park Central Square, featuring food samples from local restaurants, a biergarten and live music. The annual Birthplace of Route 66 Festival in August is an outdoor blast from the past, with tons of classic cars on display and an overall vibe that pays homage to the Mother Road s connection to Springfield.

6stroll through the art at SPRINGFIELD ART MUSEUM

Springfield mainstay that s getting better every year Springfield rt useum is a true treasure. Open since 1928 with a focus on art appreciation, education and preservation, the museum features a permanent collection of more than works of fine art plus temporary and traveling e hibitions. nd it s a true fi ture in the community o ering kids summer camps adult education chic events like the annual 99X fundraiser and more. Right now, the museum is in the middle of a long improvements campaign that has already resulted in the naturalization of Fassnight Creek and will continue with extensive building renovations and expansions in the next few years.

7 plan a

DAY O’FUN with your kids

If you’re a parent, you probably already know that the abundance of kid-friendly attractions in 417-land makes this an awesome place to live for anybody with kiddos. We love to combine a few kid-friendly favorites into one big day o fun. Start the day o at ickerson Park Zoo (dickersonparkzoo.org), where you can feed a gira e pet a few goats and see wildlife from all across the globe, all hanging out right here in Springfield. Then take the kid party downtown to visit Discovery Center of Springfield (discoverycenter.org), where they can get their science on by interacting with hands-on educational exhibits about everything from dinosaur bones to the hair-raising experience of touching a Tesla coil. Then, head to another nearby animal-centric spot: National Tiger Sanctuary (nationaltigersanctuary.org). There you can take a tour where kids will learn about a variety of great big cats and what their lives are like at the sanctuary.

Photo by hris kins courtesy Springfield rt useum ational Tiger Sanctuary

How awesome is it to watch art come to life, up on stage and right in front of you? Snagging a ticket to one of the many performing arts shows in Springfield will awaken a new appreciation of our city s cultural gusto. You can see a Broadway Series show like this season s Hamilton run at uanita . Hammons Hall for the Performing rts see talented actors in live plays from both Springfield Little Theatre and Springfield ontemporary Theatre listen to beautiful music from Springfield Symphony Orchestra marvel at the leaping dancers from Springfield Ballet see issouri State theatre students perform at the ohn oodman mphitheatre hear incredible voices through Ozarks Lyric Opera, watch national touring comedians at the Blue Room Comedy Club and so much more.

ways to fall in love with 417-land

Photo courtesy Blue Room Comedy Club

9

munch on steadfast LOCAL FLAVORS

If you’ve made southwest Missouri your home but didn’t grow up here: You know you’ve become a true 417-lander when Springfield style cashew chicken evolves from “What the heck?” to a go-to comfort food in your mind. We opt for the original for this dish: Leong’s Asian Diner, run by Wing Yee Leong, who is the son of Springfield style cashew chicken inventor, David Leong. But that’s not the only unique to here avor that 417-landers love. There’s the massive and saucy Sancho Enchilada Style and the sweet chip dipping sauce from Mexican Villa. There’s the summery sweetness of a bowl of Pineapple Whip (especially the grape-pineapple swirl). There’s the perennial joy of dipping your spoon into an Ozarks Turtle from Andy’s Frozen Custard and fishing out the perfect pecan-loaded bite. And there’s the warm and sloppy-in-the-best-way comfort of a bowl of chili from Casper’s.

Attending any sporting event is an exercise in community spirit. When you hear the crack of the bat right before a crowd of thousands all leaps up to cheer at the same moment, it really doesn’t get much better than that. We especially

Photos by ylie right courte sy att Turer Springfield ardinals

love e periencing that sporting feeling at a Springfield ardinals game (springfieldcardinals.com) Hammons ield is big enough to make you feel like you re part of something significant when you go there for a game, but small enough that you can explore without feeling overwhelmed. A great family friendly activity Springfield ardinals games feature fun on field games fun promotions ids Corner activities, visits from Louie, interesting eats (and people get pretty serious about those $1 brat nights and some seriously good post game fireworks during weekend games in the summer.

11 stop to smell the roses at NATHANAEL GREENE PARK

We’re lucky in 417-land: We have a pretty long growing season, and a whole lot of gorgeous plants thrive here. And one spot in Springfield is the aspiring gardener or ower admirer s dream athanael reene Close Memorial Park. Start at the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, where winding foot paths, water features, manicured gardens and darling structures combine for a truly serene experience. Then, make your way along the sidewalk that takes you all the way around the rest of the 113-acre park. You’ll walk past dozens of themed gardens, like a little grove of redbud trees that is absolutely on fire in the spring the Roston Butter y House the ornamental grasses garden (which feels a little otherworldly in the best way if you venture deep inside), the pretty little dwarf conifer garden with its curved wood footbridge, and (our favorite) the shady and expansive hosta garden located right beside Lake rummond. f owers are your thing there are gardens filled with roses, irises, peonies and more. And those are just a few of the pretty little spots where you can take in the sights and smells of these lovely gardens.

Photo by Colin Shea Dennisto n

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: There’s no place like 417-land. Hiking, mountain biking and walking trails weave through the region’s varying vistas. There are gently rolling hills, deciduous forests and rocky dolomite glades. Alongside our sparkling rivers, rushing springs and sprawling lakes you can spot limestone blu s and other interesting rocky features. Thanks to karst topography issouri is speckled with more than caves both big and small, and here in 417-land you can visit several of them for tours that let you get an up-close look at how these natural wonders were formed over millions of years. So whether you’re casually strolling one of the Ozark Greenway trails, touring Fantastic Caverns or exploring trails through the more remote reaches of the Ozarks, you’ll never run out of reasons to keep your eyes wide open so you don’t miss a single beautiful scene.

admire our unique landscape WITH AWE

Photo by Zach Shermer

laze away the afternoon at a LOCAL BREWERY

The brewery scene in 417-land has exploded in recent years—and it’s still growing, with at least two big brewery expansions already underway. We love this trend. What’s better than gathering a few favorite friends to relax outside at one of these spots with a locally brewed beer and some live music. Each brewery shares an easygoing community vibe, but each location has its own personality too. At Tie & Timber, it’s all about the spacious tiered patio that’s a little oasis in the city. At Wire Road Brewing, it’s the sloping treefilled gathering space with tons of room to spread out. At Mother’s Brewing Company, it’s the wide grassy lawn where community events take place throughout the year. At Piney River, it’s the big red barn where you can have a beer or a fresh pizza. The list goes on and on, but one thing’s for sure across the board: These are exceptional places to gather for that 417 feeling.

watch the VISUAL ARTS SCENE grow

spy the view from the

BRANSON

FERRIS WHEEL

Like so many 417-landers, the Branson Ferris Wheel wasn’t born here. It is a native Chicagoan, spending 20 years at the city’s Navy Pier and lifting tourists high above Lake Michigan for that perfect view. Now, this historic Ferris wheel is a Bransonite through-and-through. Its new home is on the Highway 76 strip at The Track Family Fun Parks’ Track 4. Instead of lifting those 40 gondolas over Lake Michigan it now lifts them over Branson o ering views of the city s funky attractions and the surrounding wooded Ozarks hillsides. It’s the perfect way to get the lay of the land.

Spotting fine art out in the wild is a pretty awesome experience. And in recent years, it’s been easier than ever to do that here. From the in u of building side murals scattered around Springfield to ongoing events like Springfield Sculpture alk and the annual Overlay Festival, it’s practically an art explosion around here! The murals, like the “Do Good” mural on Commercial Street or the Springfield mural on the side of the is covery Center building, provide little photo ops and colorful bursts of local pride. The sculptures, some of which are permanent and some of which change each year, give you the perfect excuse to head out on a walk through the city to admire the sometimes super-funky freestanding artwork that adds interest to busy street corners. And Overlay Festival (which you might have attended last fall when it was called MidXMdwst) brings art to life with large-scale installations and live mural painting along with musical performances and other events. So what does all of this mean to the average 417-lander? It means that there are people here working to make our region more beautiful, colorful and quirky every day.

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, Brandon Alms, Colin Shea Denniston

16 follow the path of a GREAT BIG FISH

At Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (wondersofwildlife.org), the under-the-sea exhibits and natural wildlife dioramas are expansive and immersive, so there are loads of opportunities to see something spectacular and learn something new. Our absolute favorite following the path of fish both big and small as they oat through the water in the Open Ocean area. The circular tank is like a sea creature highway with the coolest critters swimming past as you watch. nd we aren t the only ones who think this magical attraction is something to be proud of. Wonders of Wildlife earned an accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and has won numerous awards including merica s Best quarium and merica s Best ew ttraction both courtesy of US Today readers .

surround yourself with MILLIONS OF TWINKLING LIGHTS

Silver ollar ity is a blast for both tourists and locals at any time of year but you can t help falling in love with it during hristmas. The park s n Old Time hristmas (silverdollarcity.com) festival includes the biggest holiday lights display we ve ever seen with a whopping . million lights covering practically every building and even strung across walkways to make sparkly overhead displays. There are festive holiday shows and plenty of seasonal treats to eat too. The hristmas celebration is so popular it has won US Today s readers poll for Best Theme Park Holiday Event five times s if the sensory e perience of taking in all those lights weren t enough the rides are open too of course. So you can spin yourself right back to reality on the wild Time Traveler or blast yourself into roller coaster heaven on Powder eg while you are there too.

Photography

practice your swing at world-class GOLF COURSES

When Johnny Morris teamed up with Tiger Woods to design the uniquely beautiful Payne’s Valley Golf Course (bigcedar.com/golf), we knew we’d hit the big time when it comes to golf. It solidified something that had been evolving for a long time land s rolling O ark ountains are a prime spot for top-notch destination golf. While the sport brings plenty of tourists to the area to play at numerous award-winning and super-scenic courses (like Payne’s Valley, Top of the Rock Bu alo Ridge and more it s a boon for locals as well. We can reserve a tee time and take in those incredible views too, right?

dine in a PRESERVED HISTORIC MILL

Finley Farms (finleyfarmsmo.com) in Ozark has succeeded in taking something old and creating something new while still preserving the local history that is so important to the folks who live nearby. nd right along the inley River at inley arms you ll find the best e ample of that The Ozark Mill Restaurant. This upscale farm-to-table spot is housed inside the preserved mill, which still features original hardwood ooring and millworks alongside comfy seating and huge windows overlooking the river. Your whole family can munch on tasty meals prepared using ingredients grown at Finley Farms—adding to the modern-meets-traditional vibe.

FISH AND HUNT in the Ozarks wilderness

When deer season opens in 417-land, it’s practically a holiday for a lot of families who gather up their gear to spend the weekend chilling in hunting blinds and hanging out in cozy cabins. Fishing is a family favorite here too, with local waterways that are rife with a variety of fish. There s rainbow trout and brown trout in Lake Taneycomo and in many local rivers, muskie in places like Fellows Lake and more. These outdoor sports result in the thrill of conquest and the practical benefit of stocking your free er with venison or trout—but they are also great ways to enjoy the outdoors in southwest Missouri as you patiently wait for that perfect buck or a little bite.

Photos courtesy Big Cedar Lodge, Finley Farms, by Jessica Kennon Spencer

Sometimes the best way to experience and fall in love with your hometown is to step outside your day-to-day grind and try being a tourist for a bit instead. Lucky for us, there are some stellar lodging options if staycationing in the region is on your to-do list. Hotel Vandivort (hotelvandivort.com) has a super-chic mid-century modern vibe, great dining options and a rooftop bar atop V2 just across the alley. It’s the perfect home base for getting out and exploring the city. If you want more of a stay-in-one-spot staycation, then Big Cedar Lodge (bigcedar. com) is a great upscale option that has a vibe best described as rustic cabin in the woods meets luxe getaway. There you’ll find walking trails lake access a bowling alley, a clay shooting school, golf courses fishing lessons dining activity schedules and a bunch more.

dine your way AROUND THE WORLD

There is an array of cuisines available at great restaurants all throughout 417-land, but Springfield s ommercial Street houses a curious combination of worldly avors we can t find anywhere else. There are Lebanese o erings at That Lebanese Place, Peruvian eats at Café Cusco, Indo-Dutch options at Van Gogh’s Eeterie , a variety of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine touches at Eurasia o ee— and even good old American food with the killer burgers at Lindberg’s Tavern. We love that this one street has become its own friendly little hub of international cuisines in Springfield.

few of Springfield s residential neighborhoods make great places to take a walk with your family because each one has its own unique vibe. In Rountree, the houses range from adorable bungalows to sprawling colonials, stately tudors and everything in between on streets that are lined with tall trees and deep front yards. It’s known for its Halloween parade and block after block of spookily decorated houses that bring trick or treaters so much glee. In Phelps Grove, you can walk past charming architecture before ending at Phelps Grove Park. Lovers of mid-century modern homes will enjoy trekking through Southern Hills, but they aren’t kidding about the hills! This spot connects to the Galloway Creek Greenway, so you can extend your walk all the way to Sequiota Park and beyond. In Midtown, the streets are lined with beautiful Victorian and other historic home styles, many of which have been or are being lovingly restored by neighbors who can’t get enough of that old-house charm. No matter which spot you pick, you’re in for a walk with plenty to see.

Photos by Brandon Alms, Leah Stiefermann

celebrate the changing seasons at FALL FESTIVALS

full calendar of fall festivals is one of the best benefits of Springfield s location among southwest Missouri’s many smaller towns. In fact, there is so much quirky fall fun in southwest Missouri, there’s no way you could do it all in one season The best part is that each festival has a di erent theme and personality. Hollister celebrates with the Grape & Fall Festival. In Mount Vernon, Apple Butter akin ays festival steaming copper pots filled with the makings of some delicious apple butter. Up in Stockton, the annual Black Walnut Festival celebrates that earthy-funky nut that’s native to our state (and adds a perfect bitter-ish bite to a super-sweet chocolate chip cookie). Over in Republic, the art of growing massive gourds is at the forefront of Pumpkin Daze, where the biggest pumpkin takes home the glory. And of course, fall’s favorite fruit has several local events dedicated to it each year, including Seymour s pple estival where the corn dogs are long and the baking contests are fierce.

make a day of it at CHERRY& PICKWICK

This beloved intersection is one of Springfield s favorite hangouts and it s the perfect example of an area that seamlessly blends both residential and commercial buildings. There’s the Spanish revival vibe of the Tea Bar & Bites courtyard, which also connects to great vintage home goods shopping at Goldenrod. Down the block a little is Culture Counter for locally grown groceries and fresh ice cream, Cherry Picker Package are for wine and co ee plus a small menu of great eats, and Pickwick & Cherry bakery for breads that can’t be beat. Also at that intersection you ll find a brewery Tie & Timber), a taco joint (Team Taco), a ramen slinger (Skully’s) and a sweet little spot that houses a breakfast café in the morning and a bar at night (Dani’s Flour Pot Bakery and The Royal, respectively). Visitors can hop into Artistree to paint pottery or Heritage to pour their own candle. Hey, now that I think of it… maybe we need to make it a weekend, not just a day.

Photos by Brad Zeewrink, courtesy Culture Counter

FACE OF UROLOGY

Citizens Memorial Hospital

Concerned about prostate, bladder and other urinary problems? You are not alone and help is possible. Mark Walterskirchen, M.D., FACS and Jessie Larbey, PA-C with CMH Urology Surgical Clinic provide a wide range of urologic care.

Dr. Walterskirchen is an expert surgical urologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of urological health needs of men and women.

Well known in southwest Missouri, Dr. Walterskirchen is one of the few surgical urologists in the region to offer specialized procedures such as InterStim and Botox bladder therapy for female incontinence and voiding issues, Xiaflex injections and penile plica-

tion for Peyronie’s disease, prostate cryoablation for prostate cancer, UroLift for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), treatment for erectile dysfunction including injection therapy and penile prosthesis, and complex robotic procedures for kidney, prostate and bladder diseases.

CMH Urology Surgical clinic now offers patients Pro-Nox™ Nitrous Oxide Delivery System for in-office urologic procedures including Botox bladder therapy, vasectomies or any procedure with pain and anxiety.

You don’t have to “live with” urology concerns—call us. We look forward to providing exceptional care at our clinic.

Photo by Josh Beecher

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

FACE OF CLOSET DESIGN Concepts by Design

Spending hours digging for your favorite shoes or sorting through piles of shirts was so 2022.

Our design team will make sure your items have a proper place through a stylish refresh to your wardrobe. From economical closet system organization to stunning boutique-style displays, we take great pride in helping our fellow 417-landers get organized.

Our team strives to create beautiful living spaces using handcrafted custom-made cabinetry from the most desirable raw materials available, including beautiful woods, exotic veneers and laminates. Closet already in good shape? We create solutions for any room of your home,

from bedrooms to hallways and more.

If you’re not sure which option suits your needs, we are happy to walk you through them in our extensive facility’s showroom. We also manufacture with top-ofthe-line equipment right here in Springfield, enabling us to use our creativity to serve a variety of customers who bring us exciting challenges. You bring your imagination to the table—we’ll bring our diverse, experienced design team and world-class craftsmen to give your ideas life. Experience the peace and calm your space deserves

Photo by Brandon Alms

Our surgeons are the Face of Abdominoplasty in 417land. We understand that a flat stomach is important to a physically fit appearance and many people’s self-confidence. But sometimes, a healthy diet and regular abdominal workouts aren’t enough to achieve your goals.

When it comes to your tummy tuck, we are dedicated to providing an individualized plan to ensure the highest quality result, and to make your experience comfortable, convenient and effective. Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin and, in most cases, restores weakened or separated muscles, creating an abdominal pro-

file that is smoother and firmer. Within a week or two, you should be standing tall and confident in your new slimmer profile.

The Center for Plastic Surgery was founded on the belief that aging is a treatable condition, not a foregone conclusion. Our approach to slowing, preventing and even reversing the signs of aging is through early detection and appropriate intervention, combining state-of-the-art plastic surgery with scientifically proven anti-aging therapeutics and products. You want to look and feel your best. You can expect the best from the world-class plastic surgeons at The Center for Plastic Surgery at CoxHealth.

Photo by Brandi Keltner

We’ve moved into our new facility and are so excited to show you around! We understand that visiting the dentist is more than just receiving excellent dental care or an office in a beautiful new building. From the moment patients enter our office, we help each person feel comfortable and appreciated by listening to their concerns. We offer special touches to ease any dental anxieties such as dental chairs with gentle air massages, nitrous oxide, blankets, TVs on the ceiling and headphones. But it’s the relationships formed that make our office

“At

den-

Photo by Brandon Alms

Photo by Brandon Alms

FACE OF RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGES

PrimeLending

Dreaming big just got easier. At PrimeLending we work to simplify the home buying process. Whether you are looking to buy, build, renovate or refinance, we have literally hundreds of financing options available and will work diligently to find the best option for you.

We offer the hands-on personal service of a small local operation, but with the resources and cutting-edge technology of a national lender. Our 96 percent customer satisfaction rating and 20,000 five star reviews show that we take pride in exceeding expectations locally and nationwide.

At PrimeLending, we are dedicated to helping you secure affordable financing options for the purchase of

your dream home. Pre-qualification can act as a great tool when it comes to putting in offers on your future home and help you best evaluate potential mortgage limits. Sellers appreciate this documentation and will be more likely to take your offers seriously. In fact, most sellers won’t even consider offers that are made without at least a pre-qualification.

After you purchase your home, we can also help you manage the equity in your home to successfully increase your rate of return and tax deductions while safely making your finances more liquid.

For more information about a mortgage loan, call Andrew or Becky today!

Photo by Brad Zweerink

We have always loved animals. When we learned of the plight of tigers in the wild, and the problems captive tigers face, we knew we needed to do something to help. That need soon became our mission. We not only felt moved to rescue tigers in need, but also felt the best way to help solve some of the problems they face was educating others. Our hope is to give these magnificent animals a safe, healthy and loving forever home. If we can increase awareness about big cats and the problems they face, and our own impact on the world around us, we will all enjoy a better life.

While we are a not-for-profit rescue organization that provides a home and specialized care for exotic animals in need, we also provide a unique educational experience to guests, teaching about the animals, their environment and the struggles that they face. Our guests love the personal, up-close experience they get to have with our animals!

We know that you’ll not only have an incredible time visiting our sanctuary but also leave with your hearts full, with a desire to support these amazing animals here at National Tiger Sanctuary! We are proud to be your face of Preservation Through Education.

Photo by Brandon Alms

BUILDING FOUNDATIONS OF TRUST

roll WITH IT

Dani’s Flour Pot Bakery is the perfect spot for your breakfast cravings, whether you’ve got a sweet tooth looking for a warm cinnamon roll or want a savory quiche. Flip the page for more of these delicious dishes.

Photos by Brandon Alms

Dig in to the quiche; bacon, egg and cheese sandwich; brûléed grapefruit; and biscuit with sausage gravy.

WAKEY-WAKEY

You can fuel up for the day with unique takes on classic breakfast fare at Dani’s Flour Pot Bakery, the sweet little eatery with an upcoming name change to Sleepy Opossum Cafe.

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES | PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS

The bacon egg and cheese breakfast sandwich is served on a homemade biscuit.

 That classic morning fruit—pink grapefruit—gets an upgrade. t s br l ed for a sweet touch and an oh so-satisfying crunch.

What makes a hole-in-the-wall restaurant feel like such a treat? Maybe it’s the quaint charm, or the super-chill atmosphere, or the fact that it feels a little bit like a well-kept secret. Dani’s Flour Pot Bakery has all those elements—and great breakfast fare to boot.

The sweet little shop, which will soon change its name to Sleepy Opossum Cafe, is located inside The Royal at Rountree’s hopping Pickwick and Cherry intersection. In the morning, Dani’s Flour Pot Bakery uses the space to serve breakfast and lunch, and in the evening The Royal slings cocktails and snacks.

On a recent and frigid winter morning, I popped in to give owner Dani Hunnell’s breakfast fare a try, and it felt like such a relief from the chill to walk into the warm, sunny and charmingly decorated space that delivers strong Wes Anderson vibes.

The menu is a mix of breakfast fare that looks pretty traditional at rst glance but actually holds some creative surprises. Instead of pie crust, the quiche is surrounded by a layer of hash browns. The breakfast tacos feature a spicy-sweet sriracha syrup. Even the hot cocoa is outside the expected; it’s a Mexican hot chocolate.

I knew I had to try one of the quiches. They are lled with seasonal ingredients, often from local farms, so the options change. On my visit, they were o ering one that was made with caramelized pumpkin and gorgonzola cheese.

I found a cozy table with sofa seating and a view out the window. When the quiche arrived (along with an excellent mug of co ee from the popular Bentonville co ee shop Onyx), I was immediately charmed. Everything was served on mismatched plates and cups, all with a sweet vintage vibe.

Not only did the quiche have a hashbrown crust, but it was packed with hashbrowns on the inside as well. The slice arrived piping hot and really big. It was so delicious—the de nition of comfort food with all that potato and cheese and egg. But it was just as surprising as it was comforting. The pumpkin wasn’t too sweet; instead it complemented the more savory avors beautifully. Every nibble that had a bit of gorgonzola in it was my favorite—just such a tasty combo of ingredients.

It was too big to nish on my own, so I had to stop myself from lling up so I could save a little room for the brûléed grapefruit. It’s a delightful breakfast side. A fresh grapefruit half is topped with sugar that’s then brûléed into a caramelized, crisp, crackable treat on top. I love a grapefruit, even at its most bitter, but adding that caramelized sugar is just the icing on the cake.

I also ordered a bacon, egg and cheese breakfast sandwich to bring home to my husband, and of course I stole a couple bites. (For science!) The homemade biscuits are sprinkled with everything bagel seasoning and lled with thick-cut bacon and a scrambled egg. There’s a little dollop of jam inside too. I loved every element except the jam; it was too sweet for me. But if you’re in the jam-plus-breakfast-meats camp, you’ll love it.

Although I have never tried them, I’ve spent a lot of time admiring the beautiful cakes from Dani’s Flour Pot Bakery. They are served in seasonal avors and are topped with colorful accents like u y buttercream, colorful owers and bright compotes. You can order these online, and at press time they were o ering one of my all-time favorite dessert avors: Earl grey.

We did get to try one of the other sweet treats, though. I ordered a cinnamon roll to go and brought it home to share with my kids. Cinnamon rolls are always a hit with my family (I mean, who doesn’t love a cinnamon roll?), and this one didn’t disappoint. The outside was beautifully golden with sticky-sweet icing, but it was that very middle layer that we tussled over. So soft, sweet and perfectly spiced! It was the ideal complement to the extra cup of co ee that I took to-go.



The quiche is heavy on hash browns and so delish.

DANI’S FLOUR POT BAKERY

E. herry St. Suite B Springfield danis ourpotbakery.com

Open Tuesday–Friday 7 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Saturday a.m. p.m. and the first Sunday of the month 9 a.m.–noon $

THE SWEET STUFF

We test out the take-and-make chocolate chip pancake mix from Lindsay’s Kitchen.

Iam a big fan of convenience in the kitchen, and local baker Lindsay’s Kitchen is offering take-and-make treats that make things oh-so-simple for lazy bakers like me—like brownie mixes, pancake mixes and pans of pre-prepped cinnamon rolls. One Monday morning, I decided to give the chocolate-chip pancakes a try. I had pre-ordered the mix online (lindsayskitchensgf.com) and picked it up at Farmers Market of the Ozarks. With its just-add-water instructions, the mix came together in minutes. Then I just fried them up in a buttery pan. Easy-peasy. Plus, they smelled incredible! I cooked them at the office, and I got a whole lot of “What are you making in

CRAB CAKES

SECRET WEAPON

there?” questions from teammates across the office who had caught a whiff. I especially liked that the pancake mix itself wasn’t too sugary. The little mini chocolate chips inside added creamy bursts of sweetness, but the overall effect wasn’t overwhelming. I enjoyed these little disks of happiness even without the syrup. But who am I kidding? That ooey-gooey indulgence is vital to a plate of perfect pancakes, right? —Katie Pollock Estes

f you ve shopped at Tantara Farms (4121 S. Fremont Ave., Suite 116, Springfield, 417-889-0027) then you know they stock avorful loose leaf teas and lots of seasonings. But lately we ve been extra-interested in one of their other specialties: infused olive oils and vinegars. ith avors like roasted garlic e tra virgin olive oil, harissa extra virgin olive oil and fig dark balsamic vinegar they can add a boost of avor to your home cooking or hu h up your homemade salad dressings. Best part, though: You can taste them before you buy them to make sure that avor hits all the right notes for your cooking masterpiece.

Katie Pollock Estes

Photos by Leah Stiefermann

go on, treat YOURSELF

If you’re like me and your idea of the ideal cup of joe starts with a couple shots of espresso and ends with a teensy splash of cream, then you probably don’t order a lot of lattes. Too milky, too sweet. But there’s something about a shaken latte that I can’t resist. I think it’s the way the avors meld so nicely together, and the shake-shake-shake adds a bit of frothy fun. So I was pretty excited when I saw The Workshop Shake on the menu at The Workshop at Finley Farms (802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, nleyfarmsmo.com). It features espresso accented with vanilla bean syrup, cinnamon and honey for a truly comforting, cozy taste. And then, of course, they shake it all up. The result is a tasty excuse to treat yourself to a not-your-usual morning pick-me-up.—Katie Pollock Estes

[ EAT THIS NOW ]

FOLDED FLAVORS

Calzones are having a moment, and there are a handful of local restaurants that serve delicious takes on these handheld Italian treats.

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

Build-Your-Own from PaPPo’s Pizzeria & Pub, Springfield Inside: Try mushrooms, spinach, sausage.

Palermo from Rocco’s Pizza in Spring eld, Nixa and Republic Inside: fat meatballs, jalapenos, ricotta

Pepperoni from Carmine’s Woodfired Pizza, Joplin Inside: pepperoni, mozzarella, marinara

Build-Your-Own from The Big Slice, Springfield Inside: Try andouille sausage, jalapeño.

Spinach-Artichoke from Garbo’s Pizzeria, Springfield Inside: spinach, artichokes, add chicken

Greek Vegetable from Reeds Spring Pizza, Reeds Spring

Inside: spinach, mushroom, peppers, onion, kalamata olives, ricotta, mozzarella

The Skinny Linny from Fat Cat Pizza Co., Strafford Inside: alfredo sauce, pesto, feta, spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, basil and more

Photos by Brandon lms courtesy Pappo

FANCY A DATE?

Dates add the perfect amount of warm, caramel-like sweetness and texture to your dishes for entertaining this winter. Colleen Sundlie, founder and CEO of Date Lady (900 W. CommercialSt.,Spring eld,417414-2282,ilovedatelady.com) takes a creative approach to broaden the rich depth of this natural sweetener.

WRITTEN BY JO JOLLIFF

STICKY TOFFEE DATE CAKES

Cake Ingredients

1½ cups dates, pitted 2 eggs

1½ cups water

1 teaspoon vanilla extract teaspoon baking soda cup cassava our ½ cup butter, room temp teaspoons baking powder ½ cup date sugar

1 teaspoon sea salt

½ cup date syrup

Glaze Ingredients

½ cup tahini

2 tablespoons cocoa powder 6 tablespoons date syrup 5 tablespoons

To prepare

Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease small bundt (or cupcake pans and set aside. n a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add water and dates. Boil for 5 minutes. Stir baking soda into the date miture. In a separate bowl, mix butter and date sugar until light and u y. Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture. Add vanilla and mix well. In a separate bowl combine our baking powder and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Stir in date mixture and date syrup until it is evenly distributed in the cake batter. Pour batter until it is halfway up to the top of each bundt pan. Bake for 15–20 min. Pour all gla e ingredients into a bowl and stir to combine thoroughly. Pour over cooled cakes.

GOLDEN MILK Ingredients

3 tablespoons turmeric

1½ tablespoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon allspice teaspoon clove dash of pepper

1 tablespoon date syrup cup of hot milk can be nut milk or regular milk

To prepare

Combine dry ingredients to make your mi . Add a little less than teaspoon of mi to hot milk of choice. Add date syrup, and emulsify Optional Add whipped cream for extra sweetness.

hether you re feeling naughty sticky to ee date cakes or nice golden milk these recipes put a sweet spin on your holiday menu.

Photos by Leah Stiefermann

Nabholz

Founded as a small construction company in 1949, Nabholz has grown into a full range of construction contractors including industrial, excavation and environmental services across 13 locations in seven states.

Nabholz takes a 360 approach to caring for customers and employees and building our communities. Our groundbreaking wellness program has been featured in the HBO documentary series Weight of the Nation and numerous national events as a model for other organizations. We emphasize preventative care, which has helped Nabholz’s insurance premiums stay below the national average and helped employees detect early signs of treatable health issues, such as rising blood sugar numbers.

We are committed to growing our employees by creating careers in construction, not just jobs. To give employees the tools they need to develop trade and leadership skills, we established Nabholz University in 1973. Nabholz University now encompasses over 10 different programs that provide development opportunities for all employees.

The ability to give back and serve our communities comes from a culture of servant leadership that permeates our company. In fiscal year 2021, our charitable foundation made $156,000 in one-time donations and pledged $470,000 to 13 different organizations, and our operations contributed $495,000 in sponsorships and donations to 205 organizations.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

FACE OF FAMILY EYE CARE

Pierce Vision Specialists

Our family vision care goes beyond prescribing glasses and contacts. Through our experienced doctors and therapists, 417-land patients of all ages receive personalized attention in all aspects of their eye care.

Something that truly sets us apart is providing exam services for patients with special needs, including children on the autism spectrum. We have expert knowledge in treating patients with brain injuries and strokes, and also have expanded our treatment of dry eye.

We know that not one size fits all, so we carry expansive optical options in our showroom with sizes small enough for infants and all shapes and sizes. Our opti-

cians have a vast knowledge of frame and lens options and technology to ensure our patients’ vision needs are fully addressed.

We strive to help patients in our community better understand the world they see. Whether it is offering examinations to identify an eye health condition, using visual perception and processing strategies to help a child enhance their learning, or making exciting developments with our dry eye treatments, our services go beyond measuring “20/20” on an eye chart.

Visit our office in Springfield to learn about how our family can take care of yours.

Photo by Josh Beecher

Established in 2003, Quality Clean is homegrown here in Southwest Missouri and family operated. Our mission is to be our customers’ best vendor, and we strive for that daily. We want our clients to trust that Quality Clean only hires individuals who we would allow in our own workplaces. The quality of our service speaks for itself.

is taken care of. Quality Clean understands that you entrust the security and cleanliness of your space to us, and we take that very seriously. For 19 years, Quality Clean has been growing and will continue to do so as we establish long and trustworthy relationships with our customers. Because of this trust, you will not have to sign a lengthy contract and can cancel at any time. We can promise you exceptional results, because it isn’t clean until it’s Quality Cleaned. PROMOTION 122 417 MAGAZINE • 417MAG.COM

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Photo by Brandi Keltner

Our dynamic team of sports medicine physicians, S. Craig Morris, M.D. and Juris Simanis, M.D., provides world-class care for area athletes and acti ve adults.

Dr. Morris is a fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist. He’s worked with elite athletes of professional sports teams including the Los Angeles Rams, Angels, Dodgers and Galaxy, and Anaheim Ducks, as well as community college and high school athletes. He is now providing the same level of care to local high school, college

and student athletes and acti ve adults.

Dr. Simanis is a board certi fi ed physician with extended fellowship training in sports medicine and musculoskeletal ultrasound. He has more than a decade of experience using the latest, most advanced treatments and protocols for his pati ents in the treatment of concussions and physical injuries. We offer a full spectrum of sports medicine care to help

pati ents get back to normal acti viti es as fast as possible.

Photo by Josh Beecher

FACE OF HOSPITALITY

Oasis Hotel & Convention Center

Through the waterfall-lined gates, the vibrant colors and lush greenery of Springfield’s only resort-inspired hotel and convention center will be calling your name.

Looking for a unique location for your next company retreat or convention? The Oasis is equipped with stateof-the-art audio visual, theatrical lighting and a dedicated staff and culinary team. Our event venue adds a relaxation vibe to help you ease into your work without feeling the stress of the office. Break away from the boring, standard meeting room and work in our tropical-themed space. Our 11 private meeting rooms can accommodate groups from 10 to 1,500 guests. Corporate rates are

available and with our relaxing atmosphere, your staff may not even realize they are working.

We invite you to mix business with pleasure while exploring our resort-style amenities like our lush atrium and The Palms Massage Therapy. Our onsite restaurant and bar, Fire & Ice, offers a wide range of cuisine and is home to Springfield’s only ice bar, ensuring your drink is always cold. Fire & Ice is a social hot spot, popular with visitors and locals alike.

Whether you’re diving into a day of meetings or into one of our pools, your experience at the Oasis will be unforgettable, every time.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

There is nothing more satisfying than being able to help a small business owner achieve their goals and live out their dreams. At Regent Bank, we are entrepreneurs helping entrepreneurs, and we love what we do!

We’ve helped finance the American dream for 121 years as an SBA preferred lender. We are proud to differentiate from the rest, being owned and operated by small business owners. We have close personal relationships with our clients and we add value beyond traditional banking services.

SBA loans are a part of a powerful economic development program that offers small businesses another avenue for business

financing, while promoting business growth and job creation.

In May of 2018, Regent Bank took advantage of an opportunity to hire six of the best in banking in Springfield, Missouri, and opened a branch in this dynamic community. In a few short months, the bank grew to almost $70 million in assets.

Regent Bank’s slogan is “Passion to Serve” because we are passionate about our clients, communities and shareholders. Banking is not just a job for us, it’s personal because we have been in our clients’ shoes as entrepreneurs. We are emotionally invested in the success of those we serve and the community we all serve together.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Real estate is known for being a competi ti ve industry. That is even truer with retail, offi ce and industrial properti es. With over 28 years of experience in Springfi eld as a nati onally recognized SVN commercial realtor, I do more than just negoti ate the buying and selling of space—I match people with properti es that solve their specifi c business soluti on and investment needs. I get the opportunity daily to provide commercial real estate knowledge and experti se that transcends typical brokerage services.

My goal is to transform the commercial real estate

industry into a more functi onal, effi cient ecosystem that benefi ts everyone, including buyers and sellers.

I am inti mately familiar with the region as the former chairman of the Springfi eld Area Chamber of Commerce, and my connecti ons are a welcome resource for each of my clients, from startups to health care and banking enterprises. My investment in 417-land is rooted in more than property; it’s the success of the community that made me. To me, good enough isn’t good enough. I strive for excellence because our clients deserve nothing less.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

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

If you have a foodie story idea, news about a local restaurant, or a correction to one of our Dining Guide listenings, we’re all ears. Please send an email to our editorial team at yum@417mag.com.

FINE DINING

AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING

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

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

CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR 1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8238383. Steak and seafood. The former Touch Restaurant Oyster Bar retains some standby dishes like bacon wrapped dates and chicken Bi an in its new iteration as har Steakhouse Oyster Bar owned by the same people but o erings of aygu steaks lamb shank and fish dishes up the ante. ndulgent lobster potato puree and crispy ash fried Brussels sprouts round out the side dishes and raw oysters ceviche and bone marrow pique the appetite as starters. Be sure to sample har s cocktails or something o the e tensive wine list. Open on. Thu. p.m. ri. Sat. p.m. midnight Sun. p.m. $$$ D WIFI M ☎

CHATEAU GRILLE 415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-2431777, chateauonthelake.com.Contemporary American. hateau on the Lake Resort Spa onvention enter hateau rille o ers gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake. nd you really can t go wrong with anything on the menu here. The restaurant focuses on upscale seasonal cuisine ying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award win ning menu. Open daily during the regular season weekends only during the o season. $$$ BLD M ☎ WIFI K

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

THE FINLEY

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

FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR

314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-4444, flamesteakhouse.com. American steakhouse

The restaurant speciali es in dry aged steaks that are truly delicious. on 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 appeti er menu. Head to Red Room downstairs for killer happy hour food and drink specials. on t miss the burgers at happy hour They are so delicious and such a bargain. Open for dinner on. Thu. p.m. ri. Sat. p.m. Red Room open p.m. to bar hours. $$$ D WIFI K M ☎

THE GARRISON

at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com Upscale shareable plates. Located beneath the O ark ill at inley arms The arrison features a dark and moody speakeasy vibe a fine dining menu and a beautiful riverside patio. Try the mini pot roast forest pan anella salad and de lightful rosemary pound cake. Be sure to order one of the delicious cocktails—especially the refreshing ill Pond. Open eds. Sat. p.m. $$$ D M ☎

GILARDI’S

820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-6400, gilardisonwalnut.com Northern Italian. Owner ames artin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little talian restaurant that makes a wonderful date night spot. on t miss the ama ing meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce served over goat cheese polenta. nd be sure to dine in the outdoor seating area that was e panded last year. Open on. Sat. p.m. $$$ D WIFI M ☎

HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI

BAR 3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com. Japanese. The Oh y od roll and the Se and the ity roll are trade marks here. f 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. on t miss the bibimbap or the mango alape o ahi tuna. on. ri. a.m. p.m. p.m. midnight Sat. a.m. p.m. p.m. midnight Sun. a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ LD M K ☎ V

HARVEST RESTAURANT

8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville. Contemporary American. 417-830-3656. ining at Harvest Restaurant is an e perience like none other in land. The owners raig and Tamara on oerster have created a restaurant focused on hyper seasonal local cuisine. lthough the menu is constantly in u raig is known for his beautiful fish dishes. Open Thu. Sat. p.m. Open Sunday for brunch a.m. p.m. $$$ D M ☎

JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB

1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-886-5466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com.American steakhouse. e love the tasty steaks here. They are always pre pared perfectly. The stu ed Peppadew peppers are a must try appeti er trust us you need to taste those things The peppers are stu ed with cream cheese wrapped in bacon and dri led with a balsamic gla e. nd if you love a good salad bar imm s has one of the best. esserts are always a treat here. Open Sunday a.m. p.m. on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

KAI

306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-832-0077, kaiafterdark.com. Contemporary Japanese and Korean. This lounge like restaurant in downtown Springfield has fantastic sushi. t has the same owners as Haruno which is famous for their incredible rolls—so you know it ll be delicious on t miss the restaurant s black cod or sea bass entrees with delicious wasabi risotto. They are ust as impressive as the sushi rolls There are some great cocktail and appeti er options here as well. Lunch on. ri. a.m. p.m. inner on. Thu. p.m. midnight ri. Sat. p.m. a.m. $$–$$$ LD M ☎

LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE

The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3443, level2steakhouse. com. Steakhouse. This Branson restaurant speciali es in steaks but its gooey butter cake dessert is gaining a following. Try the ansas ity strip steak and the egg noodles with cheese. f you like to start your meal with greens the aesar salad is a must try it comes topped with delicious fried anchovies. lso don t miss the ahi tuna served on a Himalayan salt block. Open daily a.m. p.m. p.m. $$$ B L D WIFI M K

METROPOLITAN GRILL

2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com.Eclectic fine dining. nown for its delectable ash fried spinach this restaurant spe ciali es in steaks and seafood. The salads are always fresh and delicious. nd we love that the menu is always changing giving us something new and deli cious to be e cited about—served in a familiar space. The cocktails are delicious and the service is always top notch. Open on. Thu. p.m. ri. p.m. Sat. p.m. $$$ D M ☎ WIFI K

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE

3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-886-3700, nicolasspringfield.com. Italian. This restaurant serves a delicious sea bass. Try the lumache fresh snails sau teed in garlic butter and baked with Parmesan cheese. luten free pasta and pi a are available. The chicken parmigiano is a highlight definitely worth ordering.

The icola s pi a here is also super tasty and the des sert menu is impressive. En oy the spacious outdoor patio when the weather permits or belly up to the bar for happy hour with friends. Open on. Sat. p.m. close. $$–$$$ D WIFI M ☎

OCEAN ZEN PACIFIC RIM RESTAURANT 4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-889-9596, eatoceanzen.com. Asian fusion. Try hilean sea bass or the macadamia nut chicken. e particularly love ordering the Hawaii ive O sushi roll with seared rare tuna and a pineapple salsa it s a tasty combination of savory sweet spicy and refreshing. on t miss the delicious steaks. Open Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. bar closes at p.m. happy hour p.m. and last two hours of operation. $$–$$$ LD M ☎ WIFI K

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

OSAGE RESTAURANT at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-225-6343, topoftherock.com.American. Take in beautiful views from the dining room at Osage Restaurant located at Top of the Rock and en oy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The fried chicken is stellar and the cocktails menu always o ers created and delicious options. ownstairs is the End of the Trail wine cellar with a wine tasting bar and whiskey room. Reservations are recommended. Open Tue. Sat. p.m. ine cellar and Bu alo Bar open later. Brunch served Sun. a.m. p.m. $$$ B D K M ☎

PROGRESS

2144 E. Republic Road, B101, 417-799-9388, springfieldprogress.com. New American. Roasted cauli ower beautifully prepared seafood dry aged steaks and lots of delicious and veggie forward dishes lead the way at Progress where they encourage you to come as you are. on t miss out on a tasty brunch every week end too. The menu changes with the seasons and it always includes a new carrot dish that creates avors you never knew you could e perience with that hum ble orange vegetable. Progress also has a lovely patio and an ever changing cocktail menu that s always e cellent. Lunch Tues. ri. a.m. p.m. to go only dinner Tues. Sat. p.m. brunch Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m.$–$$ L D WIFI M

RETRO METRO

2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-720-1708. This throw back concept brings back decades of old etropolitan rill favorites. The aptly named Retro etro serves some of etropolitan s greatest hits including ash fried spinach and chicken spiedini as well as new avors from hef Tiny. ishes are avail able via drive thru too. Open Tues. Sat. p.m. $$$ D WIFI

ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-1234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs.com. American fare. The restaurant at ndy B s Entertainment enter o ers lane side food service and a menu full of hearty tasty fare like burgers pi as pasta and more. Springfield open Sun. Thu. a.m. midnight ri. Sat. a.m. Branson open on. Thu. noon p.m. ri. noon p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ L D M K

AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS

2144 E. Republic Road, Suite E120, Springfield, 417881-9736; aviarycafe.com. Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes— which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have rench air. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. and p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. and p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ B L D ☎ K

BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL

3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-368-5919; 631 S. Kimbrough Ave., Springfield, 417-866-2700; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-732-5077; 701 N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-725-3777; bairsburgers.com.American. There are appeti ers and burgers on the menu at Bair s plus plenty of non burger sandwiches great chicken wings and salads. e love the burger topped with ranch and fried pick les. So indulgent and delicious or an appeti er dig into a plate of fried green beans or spicy cheese curds. Hours vary by location. $ L D K

BEST OF LUCK BEER HALL

313-B S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield; 417-522-9009; bestofluckbeerhall.com. American. This downtown beer hall has more beers than you can count seasonal cocktails and draft punches. The food menu includes spins on cookout favorites like uicy cheddarwurst brats salty shoestring fries with dipping sauces and kimchi spiked fried chicken sandwiches. Open Tue. Thu. a.m. midnight ri. Sat. a.m. a.m. Brunch Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ B L D

BIGSHOTS GOLF

1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-427-3040, bigshotsgolf.com. American. ome for the golf but stay for the good eats. There are great burgers like the double smash burger with Hatch green chilis pi a wings and lots of shareable apps like the crispy red chili cau li ower. on t miss the fun cocktails. e loved the Bee Sting made with tequila agave grapefruit lime uice and alape o. So good Be sure to stop by for brunch on the weekends. Open on. Thu. a.m p.m. ri. a.m. midnight Sat. a.m. midnight Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ B L D

BIG WHISKEY’S

Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com. American. Springfield s go to for bu alo chicken dip burgers and staple pub foods has locations spreading throughout the idwest. ans rave about the spin dip too—a cheesy concoction with spinach and a little bit of spice. Hours vary by location. sk about brunch service. $$ B L D

BISTRO 58

15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-7731985, vcellars.com. Bistro fare. This restaurant is o the beaten path and o ers a stellar selection of wine a tasty lunch menu and a seasonal monthly dinner menu. Yummy sandwiches fill the lunch menu like the super tasty Steph sandwich. lso be sure to check out the riday night dinners. Open Tue. Sat. a.m p.m. ri. p.m. $ L D WIFI

BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES

209 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-319-5905; 2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, 417-368-0227; 2420 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-351-3595; blaaacksheep. com Burgers. how down on the ood Yogi two grass fed patties are topped with white cheddar lettuce on ion pickle and baaad sauce—house made Thousand sland dressing. egetarian Black Sheep has you cov ered with its Hippy en. Shakes are great here too with both kid friendly options and grown up versions with alcohol. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. midnight Sun. a.m. p.m. $ L D M

BLACKSTONE GASTROPUB

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

BOSKY’S VEGAN GRILL

405 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-507-1050, boskysvegangrill.com Vegan. ith a meat free kitch en Bosky s egan rill serves a small but mighty menu of hearty filling fare. You can find two di erent burger options one made with Beyond meat and one made with Springfield based ake s egan Burgers. You can also get a deep fried bratwurst chicken sandwich fish sliders and chicken nuggets—all in meat free vegan versions. rab a salad chips potato salad fries and more too. Open on. and Thu. Sat. a.m. p.m. Tues. eds. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

CAFE CUSCO

234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-868-8088, cafecusco.com. Peruvian. This menu is packed with fun and une pected dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the ndes ountains. few standouts the black bean quinoa burger with avocado spread the Lomo Saltado and a host of delicious entrees. nything that includes the ceviche is a sure bet. You can get it as an appeti er or as a taco filling. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ L D M WIFI

CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE

601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800. Cafe fare. hat do you get when you combine a co ee shop bar cafe and liquor store herry Picker Package are. small selection of sandwiches soups and sal ads is served daily. e re big fans of the To Brie or ot to Brie—a baguette topped with salted butter spread ham apricot preserves and brie. fter your meal order an adult beverage at the bar or pick up a bottle of wine to en oy at home. n the mornings the co ee drinks are always well done. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. midnight. $ BL D

CIVIL

KITCHEN & TAP

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

CLUB 609

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

DERBY DELI

2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066. Cafe fare. Located inside Brown erby nternational ine enter this eatery features sandwiches sal ads a variety of cheese plates and salami plates a hummus board and more. e love the artin s salad topped with oven roasted chicken or the Local oat salad topped with a scoop of chicken salad. on t miss the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham President s butter and gruyere on a baguette. Open Tue. ri. a.m. p.m. for lunch Tue. ri. a.m. p.m. for small plates Sat. a.m. p.m. $ L D

DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT

at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417335-2777, bigcedar.com. American. Here you can en oy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. or an appeti er the smoked trout is fantastic and so is the cornbread topped with cracked pepper maple butter and smoked bacon. The entrees change with the season and are always the perfect blend of rustic and upscale. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily for breakfast a.m. lunch a.m. p.m. dinner p.m. $$–$$$ BL D WIFI K M ☎ high season

DOBYNS DINING ROOM

1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu.American. he smoked tomato soup is knock your socks o delicious. ollege of the O arks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant so the menu has a very farm to table qual ity. Try the hickory smoked prime rib Thursday through Saturday. on t miss the chocolate cobbler for dessert. Brunch on Sundays. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ BLD WIFI K M ☎

DOGWOOD CANYON RESTAURANT

2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org. American. Located on the grounds of the sprawling spectacular ogwood anyon nature preserve the anyon rill Restaurant oo es rustic elegance and boasts a menu inspired by its earthy surroundings. Try the BLT made with delicate seared trout cakes and plenty of thick cut bacon. Open daily a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M

DOWNING STREET POUR HOUSE

24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse. com. Serving elevated bar food and creative hearty

entrees owning Street Pour House is the brain child of the award winning barbecue slingers who own ettin Basted. on t miss the burgers. Open in Hollister on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. Open in Springfield Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $– $ $ LD WIFI K

EBBETS FIELD

1027 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-5050, ebbetssgf.com. American. Under new management this classic Springfield spot open since has gotten a facelift and menu update. Try the Bird on a Bat bat tered and fried chicken onions and pickles served on a stick with dipping sauce. The burgers are incredible too You can build your own or try one of the four menu burgers. e re partial to the St. Louis Black Blues burger with a un style bacon bleu cheese pepper ack cheese and veggies. Open Tues. Sun. a.m. bar close. $–$$ LD K

FARMERS GASTROPUB

2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-864-6994, farmersgastropub.com. Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and changes regularly. The entrees are well priced and satisfying like the Scotch eggs and the chicken chop salad arugula kale cabbage blue cheese boiled egg pumpkin seeds buttermilk dressing . There s also a great selection of beer and the burgers and fish and chips are always delicious. Brunch Saturdays and Sundays. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. a.m. p.m. Breakfast served on. ri. a.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ B L D M ☎ WIFI K

FIRE & ICE

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

FUEL–FRESH AMERICAN GRILL

3405 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-1786, facebook.com/FuelFreshAmericanGrill. American. fter you work up an appetite at Tracks amily un Park head to uel to fuel up. They serve hearty fare like barbe cue nachoes poutine a couple loaded burgers entree salads and more. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L 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 appeti er. ustomers like the pi as and the burgers especially the burger topped with lots of tangy blue cheese . One of our favorites is the grilled salmon sandwich with a side of the sweet and yummy sweet potato fries. The steak salad is delish too. lso try the black bean burger with sweet potato fries. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ LD

1 e re nuts for the smokehouse nachos from Springfield Brewing Co. (305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, springfieldbrewingco.com) House fried tortilla chips topped with pulled pork that s smoked in house fried onions pickled alapenos sour cream queso and a homemade barbecue sauce.

olate chips to make it a treat but not so many that it tastes too sweet.

5

arm and comforting the shrimp and grits from Aviary Café (2144 E. Republic Road, Springfield, aviarycafe.com) is always a favor ite. t s layered with creamy grits well sea soned and tender shrimp fresh veggies and a perfectly cooked egg.

2

hen we are craving veg and red meat at the same time we love to order the steakwrapped asparagus spears from Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub (1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com). They are wrapped not only in steak but also in ba con with a citrus balsamic reduction sauce.

6

The creamy tomato-basil bisque from Level 2 Steakhouse (200 E. Main St., Branson, level2steakhouse.com) is like a hug in a bowl. The nostalgic avor of tomato soup is elevated and topped with a beautiful crispy pu pastry.

3

or a summery avor any time of the year we ve been ordering the strawberry slush from SocieTea (1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, societeaus.com) . t is packed with real strawberries—not a powdered avoring—for that super fresh taste. Plus you can ad ust the sweetness level. e like to get it with chewy black boba.

4

favorite morning indulgence is the chocolate chip banana muffin from Kingdom Coffee (211 S. Market St., Suite 100 and 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., kingdomsgf.com) . It has a per fectly crispy mu n top with ust enough choc

7

t s hard not to order sushi at Haruno Sushi Bar & Grill (3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, harunosushi.com) . But when we do branch out we like to order the teriyaki salmon lunch special . t s so satisfying and the salmon is al ways cooked perfectly.

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

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

The smokehouse nachos from Springfield Brew ing o. are served with pulled pork and fried onions.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

HACKETT HOT WINGS

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

HOT CLUCKERS

1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield; 417-882-5825, facebook.com/hotcluckers. Southern. For kickin chicken that ll make your nose run and your brow sweat head to Hot luckers. Serving ashville style hot chicken this counter service oint brings avors of Tennessee to Springfield. heeky spice levels allow you to cus tomize your mouth-burning experience—we’re partial to Hot otherclucker. Open daily a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D K

HOULIHAN’S

2431 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-862-7777; 2110 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-883-3434; houlihans.com. American. The fish tacos and burgers are fantastic and we love the enormous nachos appe tizer along with the vast salad selection. Grab some friends and share a few of the small plates. Be sure to grab a table on the patio. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. midnight Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M WIFI K

HY-VEE

1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-8224; 2150 E. Sunshine St., Springfield; hy-vee.com. It’s all about variety when it comes to the freshly prepared food at Hy ee. You have a hibachi grill a pi e ria hearty comfort food sushi hinese dishes and Wahlburgers burgers. $–$$ BL D WIFI

A HABANA VIE A

220 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-771-5723, la-habana-vieja.com. Cuban. Find great mojitos and a menu full of Cuban fare at this Commercial Street eatery. Try the ropa vie a uba s national dish of beef brisket rice and veggies. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. and p.m. $$–$$$ L D

MISSOURI MIKE’S

1724 E. Battlefield, Springfield, 417-771-5829, momikesbbq.com. This spot o ers barbecue and a vari ety of casual dining options. They also serve a great weekend breakfast with plenty of boozy morning drinks and everything from the classics (biscuit sammies please to creative fare like rench toast made with bananas anc caramelized rum sauce. Open for breakfast Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m. Open for lunch and dinner Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $–$$ BLD K

NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE 2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-3403, nearlyfamous.net. Deli and Italian. Regulars love the weekly specials egg salad on ridays pear sand

wiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastic and it goes well with ust about any sand wich at this friendly spot. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ B L D K M

NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY

1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417720-4162; neighborsmill.com. This full time bakery o ers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches soups and salads. on t miss the honey pecan chicken salad which comes on Bron e honey wheat bread or the Reuben which comes on pumpernickel rye bread. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ B L D K

THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT

at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-2106644, finleyfarmsmo.com. Inside the beautifully restored O ark ill you can order upscale farm to table meals that are made with ingredients grown at Finley Farms or produced in their apiary. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters appeti er made with artichoke sausage mo arella and pickled pepper aioli. Open eds. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M K

RED ONION CAFÉ

204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe. com. American/Italian. The Tuxedo Chicken is a customer favorite. Diners also love the bacon-wrapped shrimp the blackened tuna sandwich or ave s fried chicken salad. Try the BLT&A. (The A stands for avocado... yum Live entertainment every third Thursday. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ L D WIFI K

ROSIE JO’S CAFE

1711 S. 15th St., Ozark, 417-581-6047. American. This place is a very popular hangout at breakfast time with great daily specials and it also has great homemade pies. The fried chicken is delicious and so are the fried dill pickles and the onion rings. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ BL D K

SPLIT SOCIAL KITCHEN

3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-755-7155, splitspringfield.com. American. ome for creative and beautifully prepared shareables like burrata with truf e pesto. e love the ama ing macaroni and cheese get fried chicken with it as your optional protein . ome on the weekend to try the brunch menu. Open Tues. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ BL 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 a un chicken—yum . ome hungry enough to order dessert the cakes are stellar. Open on. ed. a.m. p.m. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D K ☎

TEA BAR & BITES

621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417-866-7500, teabarandbites. com. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful aky crust. e love any of the menu items that have a editerranean air. The menu fea

tures plenty of vegan vegetarian and gluten free options. Occasional theme dinners. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ B L D M ☎ V

VAN GOGH’S EETERIE

334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie. com. Indo-Dutch. utch pancakes chicken witlof and other ndo utch and utch inspired cuisine populate the menu at this ommercial Street hotspot from oe idman of afe usco. e love the pancakes—espe cially the arm ear uvers topped with goat cheese apples honey arugula and thyme. Open Tue. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ B L D ☎

batches for optimal freshness is known to sell out. iller brisket pulled pork and other favorites are sold first come first served with a few simple but delicious side dish options. Open daily a.m. until sold out. $–$$ L D M

CROSSTOWN BBQ

1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646. Try the ribs or the brisket. The Big Pappa inner is a signature dish and it features tons of meat including ribs brisket and hot links. nother customer favorite even though it s not barbecue is the always tasty and oh so crispy fried catfishOpen on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D ☎ K

GETTIN’ BASTED

B RBE UE

BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ

2002 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com. iners love the ribs and the burnt ends at this classic barbecue eatery. e can t get enough of the killer smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. nd don t miss the alape o bottle caps. Open daily a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI K

CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE

3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-720-1113, citybutchersgf.com. ome early because this Te as style barbecue spot where the meat is smoked in small

3242 S. Stewart Ave., Springfield; 2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted. com. ome 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.Open Sun. Thurs. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m.. $–$$ LD K

HEADY BAR-B-QUE CO.

573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq.com. This spot speciali es in ansas ity style barbecue. mong stellar ribs brisket and more perfectly pre pared meats you can find une pected dishes with a barbecue spin nachos salads a burrito. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD M K

USS MISSOURI SUSHI BOAT

BBQ SHORTRIB

MISSOURI MIKE’S BBQ & MORE

2833 W. Chestnut Expy., Springfield, 417-771-5018, momikesbbq.com. n additional to very well done clas sic barbecue options brisket burnt ends pulled pork you can also get a handful of great sandwiches. The Lyndsey is a smashburger with pulled pork brisket barbecue sauce and cole slaw. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD K

PAPPY’S PLACE

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

WHOLE HOG CAFÉ

224 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-868-0042; 2731 N. Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-720-4759 wholehogsgf.com. ustomers love the pulled pork sandwich. There s a delicious sauce for every taste bud at this eatery we like the spicy ones but the mustard base is delicious too and we love the e tra indulgent potato salad. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ L D M ☎ WIFI K

GAILEY’S BREAKFAST CAFÉ

220 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-5500. The sweet potato hash browns are super delish here and we highly recommend ordering them in place of the traditional hash browns. e also love The Bear Hug biscuits and gravy choice of meat two eggs and either hash browns or sweet browns. f you re feeling a little British try The ull onty. ailey s is known for break fast but the restaurant also has a tasty lunch menu. Open Sun. Tues. a.m. p.m. ed. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ B L WIFI K

MORNING DAY CAFE

101 S. Main St., Nixa; 417-494-5055. facebook.com/ MDCNixa. There s plenty to love on the e tensive menu. or the sweet tooth try the mu n platter with a tender sweet mu n trio. lassic breakfast fare fills the menu but fun surprises include dishes the Bacon with an insanely addictive carmeli ed ouda potato cake and a hashtag of bacon. Open a.m. p.m. daily.

$$ B L WIFI K

RISE

BRE ST

BILLY GAIL’S CAFE

5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com. Billy ail s in Branson has been a be loved breakfast hotspot for ages. ome for massive pancakes and other breakfast fare. The O ark location serves dinner on the weekends. Branson open daily a.m. p.m. O ark open daily a.m. p.m. and ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ B L D

THE BRUNCHEONETTE

424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net. e love the creative takes on eggs Benedict that we ve found at The Bruncheonette whose menu changes weekly but is always interesting. on t miss your chance to order a plate of poutine hand cut fries topped with gravy shredded cheese and a poached egg. Open ed. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun. a.m. until supplies run out. $ B L

EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST PUB

1717 E. Cherokee St., Springfield, 417-885-8088. This spot serves up creative breakfast fare and has a full service bar churning out breakfast margaritas and the ilk. Bonus Those breakfast margs are made with orange marmalade for a nod to the day s first meal. Open on. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ B L

FIRST WATCH

2946 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-889-0601; 3103 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-633-7094; firstwatch.com. o traditional with a plate of bacon eggs and toast. Or order something more creative like a breakfast power bowl lemon ricotta pancakes avo cado toast a superfood bowl with chia pudding and fruit and lots more. on t miss the lunch treats too. Open daily a.m. p.m. $ BL K

105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-691-6088, 417rise.com. The large and varied menu is inventive and superbly e ecuted with clever dishes like pav lova inspired rench toast baklava inspired Belgian wa ees nourishing grain bowls breakfast sand wiches from classic to creative and so much more. Treat yourself to a breakfast cocktail and an order of shakshuka. Open on.. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m.. $ BL WIFI

BIG EASY GRILL

U

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

BOURBON & BEALE 2639 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-268-7266. Cajun, Creole and Memphis barbecue. eals are hearty and comforting at this casual spot that serves a mi of a un and reole favorites like crawfish etou ee and emphis barbecue like some seriously good brisket along with typical merican fare that has a a un twist. Try the a un Pasta ambalaya with shrimp chicken andouille and reole spiced lfredo sauce over penne pasta. Open daily a.m. p.m. $$ L D WIFI

H ESE

5 SPICE CHINA GRILL

2058 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-799-0215. A modern take on hinese food. iners love the eneral chicken the sweet and crunchy crab Rangoon and the mango chicken. e really love the alapeno basil dish too—a great option if you don t want fried chicken. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ $$ LD K M ☎

BAO BAO CHINESE

BISTRO

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

CORNER 21

1369 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-766-6630, corner21us.com. This restaurant o ers a large variety of authentic hinese dishes including several Sichuan style meals. You ll even find dishes that aren t com mon on local hinese restaurant menus such as braised pork belly with rice noodles ribeye and eno ki mushrooms in a curry broth crispy fried pumpkin spicy Sichuan fish and so much more. e loved every thing we tried on a recent visit especially the Sichuan shrimp. Open Tues. Thurs. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ L 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 especially delicious here and we like to dip them in the bold and spicy mustard sauce. The eneral Tso s chicken has a rich and spicy sauce and lots of veggies. The signature dishes are great but be sure to keep an eye out for new items. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D WIFI K

LUCY’S CHINESE FOOD

Several 417-land locations, lucyschinesefood.com. on t miss the cashew chicken combo special that gets you an entree a side and fried rice for an incredi ble price. e like the sweet and sour chicken here. But if you d rather eat something mega spicy than some thing fried order the hot chicken. Hours vary by loca tion and season. $ L D

ARCHITECT COFFEE

1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-771-5030, architectcoffeeco.com. This co ee shop on Springfield s south side o ers a bright and co y atmosphere with warm drinks and hearty food. The breakfast burritos are stellar and so filling. e love the seasonal drinks especially when they o er some version of a refresh ing espresso tonic. Open on. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ B L M WIFI

BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR

217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-865-9911; bigmommascoffee.com. This spot o ers co ee espresso and blended frappes. But there is more on the menu than ust drinks. Be sure to try the super delicious sandwiches that are served here too. The uliette is one of our favorite sandwiches from Big omma s with apples provolone and creamy spreads and we also adore the sweets selection. Open on. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ B L D M WIFI

O EE SHOP RE

THE BLACK LAB COFFEE CO.

545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook.com/ theblacklabllc 300 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417942-7881, facebook.com/BlackLabDowntown; 3541 S. Lone Pine Ave, Springfield. This casually canine inspired co ee stop is Republic s place to be for a piping hot labbuccino and their second location in Springfield serves all the same pup inspired menu items. Try the Black Lab which includes to ee nut and chocolate or the oldendoodle a signature combination of cara mel and brown sugar. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ B L V WIFI

CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE

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

THE COFFEE ETHIC

124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-866-6645, thecoffeeethic.com. Try the single origin co ee brewed one cup at a time or any of the creative and delicious seasonal drinks. The cappuccino is fantastic truly one of the best we ve ever had and the shop also serves wine craft beers on draft and a small selection of quality liquors. e love the bottled lattes too. The food game here is strong too with loaded oatmeal freshly baked mu ns and other drool worthy fare. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ WIFI

COLLECTIVE COFFEE SHOP

2353 State Highway 248, Branson, 417-676-0803, facebook.com/collectivecoffeeshop. ollective o ee Shop is the second location of intage Paris o ee shop. This outpost o ers specialty lattes loose leaf teas and unique co ee drinks. lthough ollective o ee Shop is located within a church it is open to the public opposite of church hours. Open on. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ WIFI

COUNTRY GIRLS ESPRESSO

3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-7777, facebook.com/countrygirlsespresso. side from all of the delicious co ee drinks the real must try item here is the authentic uban sandwich served pressed on uban bread. ountry irls signature is its afe on Leche with scalded milk. e also love the guava pas try a huge treat that costs less than and is filled with delectable tropical sweetness. or breakfast the pressed bacon and cheddar burritos are a favorite thanks to crisp thick cut bacon. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K

DANCING MULE COFFEE COMPANY

1945 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-5114, dancingmulecoffee.com. The mochas are great here— chocolatey but not too sweet. ancing ule also does a really good authentic cappuccino that s made ust right. Try the Peanut Butter andango rappe if you re in the mood for something a little more funky and if you re on the run swing through the drive thru. Open on. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ B WIFI

EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE

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

KINGDOM COFFEE

211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-3501234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf. com. The co ee menu here features all your favorite classic espresso drinks like cappuccinos macchiattos mochas and more. e love the classic cortado the most and the not too sweet and super creamy iced matcha latte is delicious. or a more substantial bite try the Union Biscuit smoked bacon two eggs sharp cheddar cheese and herb preserves on a buttermilk biscuit. Open daily a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI

MUDHOUSE COFFEE

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

THE PRESS COFFEE & JUICE BAR 2710 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-771-5950.. This whole foods cafe o ers organic dishes with ingredi ents from local market vendors. uices are organic and cold pressed. The real draw here is the e ican orean fusion menu featuring gogi nachos kimchi fried rice and street tacos. The gogi quesadilla with kimchi is our favorite we like to order it with tofu and e tra go i sauce on the side for dipping every single crispy bite of our quesadilla. on t miss the seasonal drinks they don t disappoint. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI

THE WORKSHOP AT FINLEY FARMS

840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com. The orkshop is a co ee shop and gathering space. The menu includes classic co ee and tea o erings plus super si ed suped up toasts the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious . You can also sign up for hands on workshops and classes. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ B L WIFI

EL S S H SHOPS

J.

PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI

1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-1148, queencitydeli.com. This spot serves pasta soups sal ads and some delicious sandwiches. on t miss The Burnes beef tenderloin on garlic bread or the talian beef sandwiches order them wet to get plenty of lus cious us . You can t go wrong with the pastrami sand wich—piled high ust like they do it in ew York ity delis. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ L D

THE SANDWICH SCENE

208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-685-9682, thesandwichscene.com. This little spot started out inside Sweet Boy s eighborhood Bar and has now found a home of its own on c aniel Street. This spot slings some seriously good sammies. on t miss the Eurbano made with mo o pork house made terrine ham swiss and spicy giardiniera. The eatball sub is cra y good too and you should keep an eye out for get them while you can specials that are always creative and delish. $ L D

THE SUB SHOP

1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-887-3804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8077. The ighter 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 cre ative and delish. Hit an T on the way there because The Sub Shop is cash only. Seminole Street location open on. ri. a.m. p.m. est c aniel Street location open on. ri. a.m. p.m. $ L

ESSERTS S EETS

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD

Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com. on t miss the rotating seasonal toppings our sta ers love the key lime pie and blackberry in the summer and the apple pie and pumpkin pie in the fall . Try the O arks Turtle sundae a classic concoction with caramel hot fudge and toasty pecans . Or order your own creation. Open Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. midnight. $

EUROPEAN CAFÉ

207 Park Central East, Springfield, 417-569-6702, 417europeancafe.com. long with co ee drinks this little bakery serves up lovely croissants beautiful desserts perfect pastries and more. You can even find some savory pastries like the bacon egg and goat cheese tart. Their macarons are to die for and the pretty little mousse cakes are almost too lovely to eat. Open on. Thurs. a.m. p.m. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ WIFI

HURTS DONUT

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

PRAIRIE PIE

307 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com. Prairie Pie makes stellar all butter crust pies in avors that range from classic to inventive. The caramel apple pie is an elevated take on a classic and is quite popular. ny of owner Eleanor Taylor s pies made with rhubarb some with cherry some with strawberry are superb. Stop by the storefront for other o erings as well such as savory pot pies cookies and cra y good mashed potatoes. Open Thurs. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L WIFI

SOCIETEA

1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-4094, facebook.com/societea. Bubble tea is the name of the game at this authentic spot where the matcha milk tea and the matcha roll cake are both must try o erings. hether you re a bubble tea veteran or looking to try something new this is your place. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ WIFI

ST. GEORGE’S DONUTS

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

seen around town before. or e ample the gol gap pay is a crispy little hollow fried ball filled with chick peas potato onion and spices. e love the ras malai dessert homemade cheese in a sweet milky carda mom infused sauce. Open eds. on. a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat. p.m. Sun. on. eds. p.m. $$ L D

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

L D

BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND

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

DRUFF’S

331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-719-1719, yumdruffs.com. ru s has a menu of grilled cheeses soups and creative sides. or a little heat try the ood octor made with cheddar cream cheese bacon and alape o. ru s also o ers a robust brunch and breakfast menu. Open Tue. ed. a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ L D

RED’S GIANT HAMBURG

2301 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. revival of the Route staple this diner serves as much nostalgia as it does classic burgers. Opt for the stacked high griddle burgers served with fries or onion rings and slurp on a malt. Open daily a.m. p.m. $ B L D K

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

ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE

311 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, 417-351-4400, zaykaspringfield.com. There s a lot to love about this downtown Springfield ndian restaurant. The vegeta ble korma chicken tikka masala and malai kofta are ust a few of our favorite dishes. f you re new to ndian food try the pre set combo meals that feature a lot of di erent avors. or dessert you can t beat a bowl of warm gulab amun sweet pastry balls. The lunch bu et is also killer when it s open. Open for lunch Tue. Sun. a.m. p.m. open for dinner Tue. Thu. p.m. ri. Sat. p.m. Sun. p.m. $ $$ L D M

T L

ARCHIE’S ITALIAN EATERY

lini carbonara here or the penne pesto cream with chicken a dreamy combo of alfredo and pesto sauces . The lobster and shrimp ravioli in spinach mushroom sauce is a nother delight get it with the freshly made bread. Open p.m. eds. a.m. p.m. Thurs. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. $$ L D WIFI K

BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT, please see p. 128

FLORENTINA’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

2690 Green Mountain Drive, Branson, 417-337-9882, florentinasristoranteitaliano.com. hen you re hungry for talian fare during your vacation in Branson this talian eatery is the place to go. t serves delicious brick oven pi as and pastas on a big menu that has a little something for everyone. ustomers en oy the rigatoni lorentina and lobster mac. Open Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. E tended summer hours. $$ LD K M ☎

GILARDI’S, please see listing p. 128

THE HILL

600 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-920-8850, thehilldining.com. ome hungry to The Hill chef ngel im s all you can eat destination o ering a wide vari ety of talian fare in a fine dining atmosphere. ill up on plenty of pastas brick oven pi as soups salads crepes and specialty desserts. Open for lunch on. ri. a.m. p.m. Open for dinner on. Thu. p.m. ri. p.m. Sat. p.m. Sun. p.m. Brunch served Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ $$ L D M WIFI ☎ for groups of or more .

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE, please see listing p. 129

NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ

INDIAN

INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL

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

NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR 3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050. ind all your favorite classic ndian dishes here the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are both e cellent along with some others you might not have

1410 E. Republic Rd., Springfield, 417-720-1763, archiesitalian.com. There are di erent types of fet tuchini on the menu plus a build your own option along with classic talian dishes. on t miss the home made cheesey toasted ravioli. ome at lunchtime to get freshly baked pi a. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ L D K

AVANZARE, please see listing p. 128

BAMBINO’S CAFÉ

1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417-862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-4442; bambinoscafe.com. This little talian eatery serves hearty helpings of tasty talian fare that won t break the bank available at two land locations. The Poppa is a popular pasta dish t comes with penne pasta talian sausage mushrooms and a spicy tomato cream sauce. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. noon p.m. $ L D WIFI K

BASILICO ITALIAN CAFE

306 Commercial St., Springfield, 417-873-9224, basilicoitaliancafe.com. on t miss the delicious tortel

306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-831-1222, nonnascafe. net. Italian. The seafood lasagna is a must try dish and the spicy arrabbiata lasagna is cra y good. nything with talian sausage is a sure bet. e particularly love the delectable chocolate torte and the rich and deli cious tiramisu. Plus the homemade cheesecakes are always top notch. onna s also does a Sunday brunch with regular menu items from a.m.– p.m. Open Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m p.m. $$ L D K M ☎

PICCOLO

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

RAMATA ITALIAN

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

ERS RE SY SPOO S

SALVATORES FRESH RISTORANTE ITALIANO

1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com. The menu here is packed with handmade pastas that are freshly crafted every day. f you re lucky you might even catch a glimpse of them making the fresh pasta. The menu also boasts everything from fried artichokes to a Tuscan T bone plus burgers pi a and sandwiches. Open Tue. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

bento bo es are packed with your choice of entree alifornia roll rice salad miso soup fruit spring rolls veggie tempura and ice cream. Open Tue. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ L D WIFI M ☎

SUSHI VILLAGE

P ESE

CRAFT SUSHI

251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417-3195887, facebook.com/craftsushi. t raft Sushi you re in control of your meal as you customi e your own sushi and poke bowls. Try a salad bowl topped with marinat ed tofu asparagus mushrooms alapenos edamame and spicy wasabi sauce. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ L D

HARUNO, please see listing p. 128

HINODE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777. ome to see the show at the hibachi grills. Hinode is known for wonderful hibachi meals with perfectly cooked proteins and all the e tras rice stir fry noodles veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. nd don t forget to try something from the sushi menu. Open daily a.m. p.m. Sun. Thu. p.m. ri. Sat. p.m. $$ L D K M ☎

KAI please see listing p. 129

KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL 640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225. ith arai owner Young un of Haruno ai and oriya takes ramen seriously and it shows in her food. The naked ramen with seseame noodle spinach mush rooms bean sprout seaweed and lime is a highlight. The Tonkatsu is a house special a pork cutlet with apanese mustard barbeque sauce. Open on. ri. a.m. p.m. on. Thu. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. p.m. $ L D

NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-881-7171, nakato.com. Performance style hibachi dining is what akato is known for. little entertainment a great meal. ll of the sushi is top notch here as well. on t miss the enny Roll a favorite. Open on. ri. p.m. Sat. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. p.m. $$ L D K M ☎

NIJI SUSHI

3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417851-1707. n addition to a large variety of sushi rolls this menu also boasts rainbow bright cocktails and seven types of ramen soups. ome with friends so you can share and sample lots of rolls. Open Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ L D

SAKURA

3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000. There s a solid sushi menu and you can order a sushi donburi bo to really get some bang for your buck. The

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

ORE

BAWI KOREAN BBQ 4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-886-2777, bawikbbq.com. Bawi orean BB brings an authentic orean dining e perience to Springfield where you ll pay a at fee of for an all you can eat meal. You choose your proteins then you cook the meat yourself on tabletop grills. Open on. Thu. p.m. ri. Sat p.m. Sun. p.m. $$ D

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

KORIYA

4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077. This spot serves create your own bibimbap dishes and you can choose between chicken beef bulgogi tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the apchae made with slippery stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies. on t miss the aru soba if you re in the mood for something lighter. You can also find ramen stir fried noodles beef bul gogi dishes wonderful steamed dumplings and more. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ LD

delicious tahini dipping sauce. The falafel mushakal sandwich is great too with falafel baba ghanou rench fries fresh veggies pickled turnips and tahini. There are plenty of options for diners with vegetarian vegan or gluten free diets. or a super delicious des sert don t miss the baklava made with Lebanese rose water. Open Tue. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ $$ L D

VASKEN’S DELI

3200 Gretna Road, Suite D, Branson, 417-334-9182, vaskensdeli.com. The gyros are fantastic here. ake sure you get them with traditional gyro meat and don t skip the t at iki sauce e are nuts for the beef shawerma too though. t makes for a super delicious and satisfying meal and tastes ama ing with tahini. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. E tended summer hours. $ L D WIFI K

E

CANTINA LAREDO

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

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

CESAR’S OLD MEXICO

2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield 17-881-8252. ndulge in authentic e ican food at incredibly rea sonable prices. e love the birria taco which is filled with succulent shredded beef. The carnitas torta is also e cellent. t s huge and is stu ed with savory car nitas topped with melted cheese tomatoes lettuce and mayo and then sandwiched between a pillowy bun. eed we say more Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ LD

IGUANA ROJA

E TERR E

GREEK BELLY

320 E. Walnut St., 417-597-3382, greekbelly.com. e love everything we ve tasted here Try a tasty pork or chicken gyro topped with creamy t at iki tomatoes onions and rench fries on a soft pita. Our favorite though is the loukaniko. t s an orange spiced pork sausage served with spicy feta dip. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Brunch served the second Sunday of each month a.m. p.m. $ L D ☎ WIFI K

THAT LEBANESE PLACE

338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677. The kibbeh is fantastic if you like herbaceous eats and any of the delicious and meaty kebabs is a great choice. e love the stu ed grape leaves appeti er served with a

107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net. There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery don t miss the one made with alape os it has a kick that s so much fun to drink . Open Tue. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD K

LA PALOMA

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

MEXICAN VILLA

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

PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, 417-823-7180; 3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-890-1212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com. iners love the pollo abovado an ounce chicken breast that s grilled and topped with home made chori o white queso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos three soft corn tortillas filled with steak cilantro and onions and served with rice beans and avocado. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D WIFI K M ☎

PURPLE BURRITO

1700 S. Campbell Ave., Suite A, Springfield, 417-8636688. e love the street style tacos. The pastor taco with onions and cilantro is great. nd the fish tacos are some of our favorite fish tacos anywhere. dinner fa vorite is the carne asada burrito. or something a little di erent and a lot indulgent try the super cheesy chili relleno burrito. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K M

SEÑOR JULIAN MEXICAN BAR & GRILL

3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417240-2120. This tiny restaurant packs big avors with a menu that features traditional e ican soups hand made to order our tortillas quesabirria tacos mas sive quesadillas fa ita baked potatoes and more. on t miss the huge margaritas menu featuring fun options like their mangonada margarita. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D K

TACO HABITAT

3325 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-582-8226. Taco Habitat is housed in a cute little building with an inviting second oor patio space for dining outside. The restaurant serves breakfast lunch and dinner in the form of tacos burritos tortas and more every day of the week. You can dine in or pick up a meal through the drive through. There s also a pretty spacious out door seating area. Open daily a.m. p.m. $ B L D

TEAM TACO

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

TINGA TACOS

308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8007, tingatacossgf.com. This downtown taco shop is open late slinging shells of its wildly creative combinations. e

are partial to the u Yu made with super avorful mar inated tofu or the ruity Piggles with uicy pork and fig am for a salty sweet combination. Sides are great too with options like cheesy corn alapeno corn and great queso. Open Tue. ed. a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat. a.m. a.m. $ L D

TORTILLERIA PERCHES

1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-864-8195. This tiny little authentic e ican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a e ican soda a traditional e ican soup or a tamale when you visit. on t miss Taco Tuesdays and Tamale Thursdays. Open Tue. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ B L D

P S

OCEANZEN, please see listing on p. 129

TASIA

4728 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-890-6789 Pan-Asian. our sian cuisines are represented on this restaurant s menu apanese Thai orean and hinese. The fresh spring rolls are great here espe cially with peanut sauce. The curry dishes are always a good bet. Open daily a.m. p.m. on. Sat. p.m. $ L D K

topped with anadian bacon and sauerkraut. Open ed. Thu. Sun. am. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M

IMO’S PIZZA

600 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-862-1222; 636 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-886-4667; imospizza.com. true St. Louis style original mo s serves pi a on cracker thin crust with lots of provel cheese. e like the tasty elu e pi a. But our favorite is the simple combo of mushrooms and talian sausage. The cheesy bread is ridiculously indulgent and covered in a thick layer of melted provel cheese. Both locations open daily a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

MASO PIZZA BAR

3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1047. aso Pi a Bar is owned by icola ilardi and located ust a few door down from his other restaurant icola s Ristorante. nd ust like at icola s everything on the menu is delish. e can t wait to try options like the ic Rise and Shine talian Stallion and vegetarian friend ly onica Healthy pies. The menu also spans salads panini pasta soups and more. Open on. Sat. p.m. close. $$ D WIFI

MCSALTY’S PIZZA CAFÉ

PIZZA

ARRIS’ PIZZA

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

THE BIG SLICE

1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com. You can get big ew York style brick oven pi a by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pi a. The gigantic pepperonis are won derful. Open daily a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

CARMINE’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA

524 South Joplin Avenue, Joplin, 417-691-8523, carmineswoodfiredpizza.com. You can find truly e cel lent ew York style eapolitan style and etroit style pi a at armine s. e love eapolitan the best and the La Rughetta topping combo mo arella prosciutto grape tomatoes shaved Parmesan and arugula is our favorite. Open Tues. Thu. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ L D

GARBO’S PIZZERIA

2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417883-9010, garbospizzeria.com. f you love a loaded St. Louis style pi a try the randiose. Or try the Bavarian pi a for something a little di erent it is

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

MR. G’S CHICAGO PIZZA

202 N. Commercial St., Branson, 417-335-8156, mrgschicagopizza.com. There s a lot to like about this Branson pi a oint a family friendly atmosphere hearty talian food and e cellent hicago style pi a. They make all of the pi a dough from scratch. or a hearty taste dig in to the supreme pi a with home made sausage pepperoni and lots of veggies. Open on. Thurs. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ L D WIFI

PAPPO’S PIZZERIA

221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-1111; 900 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-306-9091; pappospizzeria.com. Try the spicy chicken holula pie topped with a mi ture of red sauce and olive oil grilled chicken marinated in holula sauce garlic mo arella cheese red onions cilantro. lso be sure you try the meatballs. e really like the salads here as well. Open on. ed. a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat. a.m. a.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB

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

PIZANO’S PIZZA

106 E. Jackson St., Willard, 417-742-5115, pizanoandsauce.com. You can get a little bit of ew York up in illard at this pi eria. This spot serves ew York

style pi a in addition to cal ones sub sandwiches and pasta. ough is made fresh daily and there s even a gluten free option. Tue. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. p.m. $–$$ L D

PIZZA HOUSE

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

ROCCO’S PIZZA & SUBS

Multiple 417-land locations; roccospizzaandsubs.com. This talian eatery speciali es in ew York style pi a that has anybody who s been to the east coast swoon ing. t s legit. lso on the menu are hot subs like meat ball or eggplant Parmesan plus salads cal ones and a handful of pasta entrees. $–$$ L D

PUBS LOU ES B RS

ANDY B’S TIKI BAR

433 Promenade Way, Branson, 417-213-8631, bransontikibar.com. t this e tension of Springfield s ndy B s Bowl Social there s a view of Lake Taneycomo and guests can order tiki drinks beer and other drinks. e re eying the Pin iller the bar s take on a pain killer. Open on. Sat. noon p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $

BRICKTOWN BREWERY

2040 E. Independence St., 417-887-0100. This brew pub has its own beer plus local beer that can be hard to find elsewhere. Here the menu is vast and the food is tasty. e en oyed the burgers and the apps menu included some super tasty options. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. a.m. midnight Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ WIFI L D

THE CELLAR

507 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-351-2824, thecellar. springfieldbrewingco.com. reated by the team behind Springfield Brewing ompany and located ust around the corner from it The ellar is a casual setting for small bites and creative cocktails. unch on popcorn garnished with fresh Parmesan and house made por tobello erky. Open eds. Sun. p.m. $ D

CELLAR + PLATE

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

CLEAR LOUNGE

At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433. ust across the street from Branson Landing at the Hilton Branson onvention enter is lear Lounge this spot is home to tasty food good music and fun drinks. Hours vary open p.m. at press time. D

COYOTE’S ADOBE CAFÉ & BAR

1742 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-889-7120; 807 N. Main St., Nixa, 417-725-6803, coyotes4wings.com. This spot is known for its avors of chicken wings from common bu alo to une pected tandoori spice . There are also tons of apps sammies and entrees. Open on. Thu. a.m. midnight kitchen until p.m. ri. a.m. a.m. kitchen until p.m. Sat. a.m. a.m. kitchen until p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. kitchen until p.m. $ B L D WIFI K

ERNIE BIGG’S DUELING PIANO BAR

505 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-239-3670, erniebiggs.com This piano bar serves up more than great tunes. The Branson Landing location has a small but yummy menu of gourmet pub grub filled with apps sandwiches and pi a. Pi as are thin crust and popular. Open on. Sat. p.m. a.m. Sun. p.m. midnight. D WIFI M

GALLOWAY STATION

1281 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-9730. e love the Ra un a un burger it s big hearty and always delicious. Plus we can t get enough of the fries and freshly made potato chip. Order them with a side of the spicy ranch dressing for dipping. The chicken wraps are another longtime customer favorite at alloway Station and there s a reason for it. t s a clas sic. itchen open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m $ L D K

THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB

137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-425-5162, thegoldengirl.com. Try the handcrafted 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 and artisan pi as. s for drinks everything on the menu is reliable well done. Our favorite r uava Lava which is both fruity and spicy. Open Tue. Sat. p.m. a.m. $ L D WIFI

HARBELL’S GRILL & SPORTS BAR

315 Park Central West, Springfield, 417-862-0477. Lots of items on the menu here have a barbecue twist and feature sweet and smoky barbecue sauce. on t miss the super smoky chicken wings it s what they are known for or one of the great burgers. Open Tue. Sun. a.m. midnight kitchen open until p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. a.m. kitchen open until p.m. Sun. a.m. midnight kitchen open until p.m. $ L D

J.O.B. PUBLIC HOUSE

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

LINDBERG’S TAVERN

318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-868-8900, lindbergsbar.com. orget about basic bar food. This storied watering hole goes above and beyond with creative takes on hearty comfort food classics. The burgers are delicious but honestly everything we ve

tried has been impressive. The specials are always beautifully creative and the Sunday brunch is one of the best around. Open Tue. Sat. a.m. a.m. Sun. p.m. midnight. $ L D M WIFI V

OUTBACK PUB

1924 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-7003, outbackbranson.com. This ustralian inspired spot lo cated along the strip in Branson boasts two bars an outdoor party deck and e tensive beer list. There is live music most evenings. hat should you order to eat e recommend you try the cornmeal breaded catfish. Open on. Sat. a.m. a.m. Sun. a.m. midnight $ L D WIFI V

THE ROYAL

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

SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY

305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-832-8277, springfieldbrewingco.com. Try the fish and chips paired with the beers that are brewed on site. lso delicious are the burgers and the mac and cheese. Live music. Tue. Sun. kitchen open Sun. a.m. p.m on. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. bar close daily at p.m. $$ B L D WIFI K M V

SWEET BOY’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

310 South Ave., Springfield, 417-719-4224, sweetboysbar.com. ome for pinball a laid back atmosphere and a small but very well done cocktail list. or something more like dessert try the HellBoy a fro en rish co ee with a at Boy s ice cream sandwich. Open eds. Sat. p.m. close Sun. noon close. $

VINO CELLARS WINE SHOP & LOUNGE

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

W.F. CODY’S

3138 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-8083. The cheeseburgers are a specialty at this restaurant and they are enormous. on t miss the ham and cheese sandwiches another customer favorite. Open on. Sat. a.m. a.m. Sun. a.m. midnight kitchen open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI K M

CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL, please see listing p. 128

ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT

Call for directions to the ranch in Rockbridge; 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com. This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that speciali es in all things trout. The super fresh fish dishes are

SE OO SH

made with trout that are caught on the property. e love the trio appeti er which comes with trout salad smoked trout and a trout dip that is so craveable or an entree try the blackened trout dish. There s also an on site bar The rist ill located in a historic former riverside mill. Open daily a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K M ☎

VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY

260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-851-1768; rooftopvantage.com. This rooftop bar at Hotel andivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and o ers dining igloos in the winter. The cocktails are re freshingly creative and classically well done and the menu of shareables and snacks bring the concept of bar food up several notches with items like duck confit atbread. ake sure you try the super fresh beauti fully prepared raw bar. The pickled shrimp and scallop ceviche are our faves. Open Tues. eds. p.m. mid night Thurs. Sat. p.m. a.m. $$

WHITE RIVER FISH HOUSE

5 Bass Pro Drive, Branson, 417-243-5100, whiteriverfishhouse.com. The freshwater fish is great especially the almond crusted trout or cornmeal fried catfish. Try the salt and pepper calamari for an appeti er or dig into the seasonal smoked fish dip. You can also find non fish dishes like burgers fried chicken an barbe cue ribs on the menu too. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ L D K M

STE

CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR, please see listing p. 128

FLAMESTEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 128

JIMM’SSTEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 129

LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 129

OUTBACK STEAK & OYSTER BAR

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

RED OAK STEAKHOUSE

Downstream Casino Resort, 69300 E. Nee Road, Quapaw, Oklahoma, 1-888-396-7876, downstreamcasino.com. ry aged prime steaks are served in this restaurant s fine dining atmosphere. The sides are delicious too. fter your steakhouse dinner hop over to the casino for some gaming fun. Open Sun. Thu. p.m. ri. Sat. p.m. $$ D ☎

RERICO BRAZILIAN GRILL

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

SALTGRASS STEAKHOUSE

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

WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE

1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com. ome to oplin s ilder s Steakhouse to find steaks in all si es and varieties all of which are certified black ngus beef and free of hormones and antibiotics. The restaurant s menu also has a variety of other items like seafood and chicken. Open on. Thu. p.m. ri. Sat. p.m. $$$ D ☎

on. Sat. a.m. p.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. p.m. $–$$ LD K

THAI EXPRESS

92113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-865-0101, 417thaiexpress.com. hen you visit this friendly spot don t miss the agic oodle mango curry chicken and volcano shrimp dishes. They are all tasty. The green curry is delicious with a sauce so divine you might ust want to drink it. e admit e ve been tempted Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ L D

THAILAND STATION

TE ROO S

BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM 1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-866-5533, bethsbakeshoppe.com. Try a chicken salad sandwich— served on cinnamon raisin bread. nd we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette and the gigantic couscous salad loaded with fresh veggies and eta. Tea room is open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. bakery open a.m. p.m. $ L K M

MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM AND VINTAGE SUITCASE 211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-886-7000, robinsvintagesuitcase.com. The specials and desserts are the stars of this tearoom and pastry shop. There is always a quiche and soup of the day plus great des serts. Open on. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Bakery is open on. ri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ L WIFI M

SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM 107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331. The homemade desserts are to die for. Be sure to order them quickly before they run out—like you might want to order them before you order entrees on t miss the veggie sandwich the strawberry soup or the chicken salad. This place is hopping at lunchtime. . Open Tue. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ L K

TH

1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-350-1001, thailandstation.net. ind all your favorites a variety of curries stir fried noodle dishes and soups plus some surprises like crispy duck and stir fried pork belly. e re super e cited about the salad options like the som tum papaya salad and the laab ground chicken salad . hen it s in season order the mango sticky rice dessert. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ L D

TONG’S THAI RESTAURANT 3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-889-5280. This spot serves up a menu packed with tasty Thai avors and the Esarn lettuce wraps are a longtime customer favorite. The fried basa with your choice of one of Tong s yummy sauces is another fan fave. on t for get about the Thairito a dish that s unique to Tong s. ull bar. Open on. ri. a.m. p.m. on. Sat. p.m. $–$$ LD WIFI ☎

THE WHEELHOUSE

1845 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-430-0400, wheelhousefood.com. The pineapple fried rice is a fan favorite at this Thai e ican fusion spot but you re ally can t go wrong with anything on the menu. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun a.m. p.m. $ B L D V

ET ESE

BAMBU

1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-9881. The pho is a specialty here. You can add spice herbs alape os and sprouts to customi e it. Our favorite Use all of the herbs a couple of alape os and a squirt of Sriracha. on t miss the bun bowls too Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ LD WIFI K ☎

RAMA THAI CAFÉ

1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-3204. This restaurant located inside a charming old house on Historic alnut Street features a menu full of deli cious Thai tastes in a co y atmosphere with a shady patio out back. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig into the entrees with an order of delicious curry noodles or a spicy curry option. Open on. Thu. a.m. p.m. p.m. ri. Sat. a.m. p.m. p.m. Sun. noon p.m. p.m. $–$$ LD K

THAI THAI CUISINE

1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com. Thai Thai uisine 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. Open

PHO KIM

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

PHO SAIGON

2640 E. 32nd St., Joplin, 417-627-9966. ome to this spot to indulge in fresh spring rolls vermicelli noodle bowls and big helpings of pho with lots of fresh veg gies on the side. You can also order boba tea in several avors with toppings like tapioca boba co ee elly egg pudding popping boba and more. Open on. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI

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

THE LONGEST TABLE

The Longest Table was a night of enjoying local cuisine and raising funds for Help Give Hope to assist families in need. Help Give Hope is one of Southwest Missouri’s largest children’s charities, helping families with utilities, rent, gas and education. Date September 11

Jennifer Murray, Erika Warner

Jim & Lisa Hallam

Anna Ferguson, Carlee Brown, Nancy Neal Benton Fielder, Kiersten Meyer, Samantha Harper, Trace Thompson

Christy Bevel, Phyllis Palmer

Debbie Padgett, Kathy Loomer

Seth Swa ord allie arroll

Jana Roberts, JC Compton

Photos by Kristin Knapton

DINNER FOR LIFE

An evening of dinner and entertainment, Dinner for Life: Light the Night featured an auction, raf es and music by Geezer the Band. Attendees also got to hear inspirational stories from LifeHouse moms. Date September 16

Brianna Stangeland, Greg & Mayela Hilton

Derek Moore, David Bell, Byron Faulkner, Victoria Faulkner

Duane Lewis, Mary Ann & Rusty Swift, Jana Henderson Edward Rice, Tom Ferguson

Jane Bennett, Stephanie Bedinghaus

Tom & Sharon Ferguson, KC Wright

Jessica Sharp, Sara Haynes, Holly Wilson

Joann & Keith Daugherty

Photos by Jesse Scheve

Lori Squires, Linda Marshall

Brian & Leslie Cox

Cole Ketchum, Kristy Little

Hayley McVay, Susie McVay, Morgan Lock

Aubrey Wanamaker, Joe Young

Chad & Daphne Bryson

Dustin & Logan Hargus

James Montero, Alec Craine, Lindsey Craine, Kyle Wilson

Photos by Jesse Scheve

SPRINGFIELD

Alex Miller, Debbie Jones

Tyler Gray, Fue Hang, Stephanie Conrad

my e Banks

Jett Jones, Acelie Jones, Courtnie & Brett Jones, Nelly

Alicia Bush, Veronica Anderson

Jania Whittaker & Smokey the Bear

Betsy & Rick Strobel

Carly Smith, Rod & Leah Torgerson

Photos by Kristin Knapton

Welcome to a revolutionary concept in primary care— one without hassles, long waits and the insurance middleman. It’s primary care you control.

With us, you simply pay a flat monthly fee for 24-hour access to medical care. When you call (or text), you’ll get a real person who knows you and your health history and an appointment the same or next day. Your wait won’t be longer than ten minutes and if you need prescriptions, you’ll get them at wholesale prices.

The current climate has made it difficult for doctors to focus on their patients or to see them at all. We

are free from typical insurance constraints, allowing us to help you make decisions that are right for you and your health goals, not what insurance is willing to pay for. The majority of the time we are able to negotiate prices that will be lower than through your insurance.

On behalf of Dr. Luke Van Kirk, DO, and our team in Springfield—Dr. John Lilly, DO; Samantha Goodall, NP-C; Wm. Brock Frazier, PA; Natalie Mayfield, LPN; and Justin Nowlin, MD—and from our Branson location Dr. Charlie Rasmussen, DO, we believe that not only the health of our patients but the way they are treated should be top of mind.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

We are a locally owned company that has served 417land for the last 52 years. Dale Pearce promised customers service beyond their expectations when he opened the store in 1970. We are proud to be the area’s most trusted flooring store offering high quality products and services.

While we’ve been known by generations of customers for our red & white striped awnings and the catchy jingle that accompanies our commercials, it is time for The Carpet Shoppe to undergo a face lift. We can’t wait to show you in the near future!

it

comes

From fully designing an interior space all the way to the final installation of furniture, we are committed to walking alongside our partners. Our team specializes in commercial furniture and interior design here in 417-land, and we love helping local businesses succeed!

Being the only commercial furniture company in our area that employs our own service and installation team allows us to care for our clients without handing the project off to someone else. At the end of the day, we want to take full ownership of a design from initial concept to the fully installed and completed project, and we

take pride in knowing that our customers are taken care of from start to finish.

We know that designing and overseeing an office update or reconfiguration can be extremely overwhelming. We work alongside you to make the process as easy as possible so you can focus on your regular day-to-day tasks.

At the end of the day, we get to do business with people who share the same love for our community that we do. As these local businesses thrive, the entire community thrives, and we are happy to be a part of that.

Photo by Brandon Alms

Photo by Brandi Keltner

FACE OF HONEST CONVERSATIONS

Burrell Behavioral Health

For 46 years, Burrell Behavioral Health has cared for the mental wellness of Springfield and surrounding communities. And of those 46 years, nothing comes close to matching the challenges we have faced together over the last few. At Burrell and at mental health centers across the nation, more people are seeking care than ever before. Wait lists are the norm. Those who need immediate care often don’t know where to turn. Medical and addiction issues continue to affect our most vulnerable populations. With all this, there is hope. It can get better.

Enter Brightli. In partnership with Preferred

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Since 2010, our team at Erica Lea Design Studios has worked with a host of clients both locally and nationally. Our Nixa-based interior design firm partners with artistic and detailed professionals who represent all different trades, helping them make high-end concepts a reality.

Our customer-focused design company uses a white glove, service-oriented approach. According to owner and founder Erica Hendrix, each project is unique because it “reflects the people who reside there.” We believe that creating a positive sense of place and home helps facilitate a family’s sense of belonging and

enriches the community as a whole. We are passionate about enhancing the lives of our clients by designing luxurious, timeless, and above all, functional spaces. Our goal is to reflect your personal taste with designs that highlight the architecture of your home and improve your lifestyle. It’s about more than changing your home; it’s about gaining a whole new perspective.

Whether we are working on a house or out in the community, our team at Erica Lea Design Studios hopes to “enhance and elevate” the lives of the people who make 417-land home.

Photo by Brandon Alms

Lovely 417-land

PHOTO BY BRIAN LERA | @LERASPHOTOGRAPHS

Springfield photographer Brian Lera focuses on the depth and meaning of his photographs. This unique perspective is shown in this shot taken at Schaible Lake Park—an image of blooming cherry blossom trees that makes the viewer feel like they are right there at the park.

YOUR BEST SHOT