417 Magazine | Take Me to the River | June 2024

417 MAGAZINE

GAME TIME

RIVER VIEWS

The Ozarks Lunkers football season starts now

Julie Blackmon turns her camera to the water

JUNE 2024 SUNFLOWER SEASON BEGINS • TAKE ME TO THE RIVER • LIGHTS! CAMERA! ACTION!

The crystal-clear

waterways that shape the Ozarks + HOW TO E N J OY T H E M

417mag.com JUNE 2024 | Vol. 27 Issue 6 | $5.95 |

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[ EDITORIAL ] KATIE POLLOCK ESTES Editorial Director editor@417mag.com DORI GRINDER Managing Editor & Business Editor dori@417mag.com JAMIE THOMAS Digital Editor jthomas@417mag.com JO JOLLIFF Research Editor jo@417mag.com JORDAN BLOMQUIST Custom Publications Editor & Staff Writer jblomquist@417mag.com EDITORIAL INTERNS Em Blackstone, Lauren Flynn SARAH PATTON Creative Director sarah@417mag.com JORDAN DYKSTRA Art Director jordan@417mag.com BRANDON ALMS Senior Photographer & Designer brandon@417mag.com GRACE CHIPLEY-THOMPSON Editorial Designer grace@417mag.com KATY ST. CLAIR Photographer & Designer kstclair@417mag.com EDITORIAL DESIGN INTERN Anna Pfaff EDITORIAL & ART CONTRIBUTORS

Joshua Beecher, Julie Blackmon, Tessa Cooper, Emily J. Davis, Sony Hocklander, Sheri Holloway, Kristin Knapton, Heather Kohler, Ryan Kowalski, Kristin Sharp Photography, Amy Ray-Hess, Joy Robertson, Leah Stiefermann, Chuck Travers, Vivian Wheeler

[ AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT ] ANNAH CROW Marketing Director annah@417mag.com MARIYA SERYKH Marketing Coordinator mariya@417mag.com ALEX OSREDKER Brand Manager aosredker@417mag.com

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[ 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 JAMI WIGHTMAN Senior Account Executive jami@417mag.com JANELLE HAIK Senior Account Executive janelle@417mag.com KAITLYN MESSINA Account Executive kaitlyn@417mag.com BERNADETTE PRY O ce Manager bernadette@417mag.com ERIN PAYNE Operations Coordinator epayne@417mag.com J.J. MASSEY Finance Director accounting@417mag.com KATHY GRIEVE Account Services Manager kathy@417mag.com

THIS SUMMER AND LET ME HANDLE YOUR

NICKI SHERWOOD Account Coordinator nicki@417mag.com KATIE BATLINER Advertising Designer kbatliner@417mag.com MCKENZIE ROBINSON Advertising Designer mckenzie@417mag.com

NEEDS!

ELIZABETH VANFOSSON Digital Coordinator evanfosson@417mag.com ACCOUNT SERVICES CONTRIBUTORS Morgan Lea Photography

[ FOUNDERS ]

417-300-1513 EthelCurbow.com

GARY WHITAKER Founder gary@417mag.com JOAN WHITAKER Founder joan@417mag.com

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

13

417 MAGAZI

JUNE 2024

GAME TIME

The Ozarks Lunkers

NE

RIVER VIEWS

football season starts now

JUNE 2024

Julie Blackmon turns her camera to the water

SUNFLOWER SEASON BEGINS • TAKE ME TO THE RIVER • LIGHTS! CAMERA!

The crystalclear waterways that shape the Ozarks + HOW TO

ENJOY

TH EM

ACTION! 417mag.com

[

FEATURES

]

JUNE 2024 |

Vol. 27 Issue

6 | $5.95 |

on the cover

Spot a variety of wild ora and fauna on the hite River.

Read more on p. .

This aerial shot gives a stunning view of the wild and wonderful Eleven Point River—one of the waterways featured in Take Me to the River.

TAKE ME TO THE RIVER 64

Local rivers and waterways create the perfect natural playground for the Ozarks. Discover our favorite tips to en oy oating on -land’s rivers this summer.

WRITTEN BY SONY HOCKLANDER

THE RIVER SERIES

76

SUBSCRIBE NOW t’s time to spice things up with our August issue featuring a guide to Me ican food. e share some of our favorite local Me ican restaurants and the charming people behind them. Read it before anyone else by subscribing now. To get it delivered to your mailbo , head online to 417mag.com/subscribe.

14

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Photo by Joshua Beecher, Cover photo by Joshua Beecher

orld-renowned and Springfield-based photographer Julie Blackmon shares behind-the-scenes details about her captivating collection that artfully showcases Ozarks waterways.

PHOTOS BY JULIE BLACKMON STORY BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST

JUNE 2024

[

LIFE

54 SPRING INTO ACTION

33 STAYCATION

57 HERE COMES THE SUN

Discover our roundup of the five best local spots for wading in the water.

Our favorite tips for being a tourist in your own town, complete with three quirky Airbnbs.

36 ROLL THE FILM

Rebecca Holopter gears up to film her debut directorial feature in the Ozarks.

]

54

OUTSIDE

30 SPLISH SPLASH

DEPARTMENTS

Soak up summer with a visit to Missouri’s stunning Blue Spring.

Plant your sun ower seeds now to en oy a perfect crop of bright blooms in August and September.

58 PACK A PICNIC

Create a stylish picnic in your own backyard with these helpful tips.

38 KICKING OFF

Cam Bruffett, the head coach of the new Ozarks Lunkers Arena Football team, shares his plans for the team.

41 A SIGHT TO BEHOLD

57

History Museum on the Square uses aviLens to create an inclusive e perience for the visually impaired.

42 NOT IN KANSAS ANYMORE

Get away to Kansas City for a summerpacked weekend cheering for the Royals and en oying a street-fest.

96

TASTE

92 BREAKING BREAD

Try Branson’s newest sub shop, Mythical ich, for a whimsical and imaginative take on classic sandwiches.

95 UNBERRYABLE

Strawberry lovers will adore The Order’s latest strawberry-centric dessert.

Discover the surprising ingredient that gives rban Grounds Coffee Plant Lab’s Purple Haze Latte its bright hue.

101 WHAT’S POPPING?

Discover Tru e-Herb Parmesan Popcorn from Alamo Drafthouse.

S BSCR PT O RATES issues, . isit mag.com subscribe. Allow weeks for processing orders, payment and changes of address. S GLE SS E, E SSTA D . back issues, plus shipping and handling, if available. o back issue orders or subscriptions outside the nited States. ADDRESS CHA GES nclude both new address and mailing label with old address.

Magazine SS is published monthly by hitaker Publishing, LLC, S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO . hitaker Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in any manner, in whole or in part, without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Periodical postage paid in Springfield, Missouri and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER Send address changes to Magazine, S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO . The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or cartoons. The olume and ssue numbers appear on the front cover of the magazine. Printed in the nited States of America.

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Photos by Chuck Travers, Katy St. Clair

96 PURPLE RAIN

PROMOTION

extras

SPECIALADVERTISINGSECTIONS

85

Photo courtesy HCW Management Company

Branson Guide

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

COMING SOON Branson Guide and Residential Pros to Know

August 2024 For information on advertising, call Logan Aguirre at 417-883-7417

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17

[

SUMMER

TIME

]

FIND YOURSELF IN

P Radise Largest dining facility floating on the water Fast, fresh meals 30 courtesy slips & unlimited parking

AND THE LIVIN’ IS EASY Summer is here and after one of the wilder winter-to-spring seasons we’ve seen in a while, the sunny weather and warmer evenings couldn’t get here soon enough. e’ve got a wealth of options available here in -land for you to make the most of the sunniest

[

INSIDER

season trails for hiking and biking, patios for sitting and sipping, kicking back with some star-gazing or treating yourself to something sweet and much more. Head over to 417mag. com/summer for our list of things to do when the sun is shining.

INFO

]

On the Web

11 a.m.– 8 p.m.

344 Nautical Circle Kimberling City pier28pizzagrill.com 18

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GET ON THE WATER E perience Table Rock Lake like you never have before with a yoga session on the top deck of the Showboat Branson Belle with E perience . Get tickets at 417mag.com/experience417.

KEEP IN TOUCH Sign up at 417mag.com/newsletters to receive our Datebook, Table Talk and House of e-newsletters to keep up with all the best events, food news and home inspo in the Ozarks.

Photo by Sheri Holloway

Find these stories and get the scoop on what’s happening in -land at 417mag.com.

[

INSTAGRAM

LOVE

]

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1. e got a sneak peek at El Escondite before they opened their super-cute Me ican cocktails and snacks shop in Springfield. Don’t watch this Reel unless you want to feel super-hungry 2. hat’s better than fresh owers, charcuterie and quality time with fun folks ot much e hosted a dreamy Party Planting event for our readers at the home of Katie Hoesch, and it was the loveliest.

417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

19

[ PUBLISHER’S NOTE ]

On the Water

I

f I had to choose between identifying as a lake person or a river person, I’d choose lake person all the way. Besides swimming at the community pool, I didn’t do a lot of water recreation growing up. Our first family float trip happened when we moved to Missouri and my mom wanted us to experience how fun it could be. Well, it must have been a drought type year because the water was so low that we spent most of the time pulling our canoes across rocks. I recall a lot of complaining and asking why people thought this was fun.

Since that time I’ve done my fair share of float trips. The crazy ones where you miss the bus because you took too long and have to cry and beg someone to take you back to your car. And the super idyllic ones on the bluest rivers. This past summer, our whole family went whitewater rafting in Colorado which we all gave a 10/10.

While we choose to spend most of our free days in the summer playing at Table Rock Lake, we do love a good river float. There are so many great rivers to explore in our region with one of the best being the Buffalo River. In my nearly 18 years as a 417-lander I am ashamed to admit I had never floated the Buffalo. When it’s flowing the best in springtime is when we tend to be the busiest. This year, as I looked ahead at our calendar to find a day that would work, I found that Mothers’ Day

was our only weekend day in the month of May without firm plans. My husband booked us tandem kayaks, and we packed a picnic and made a day of it.

We were lucky to catch the Buffalo on a perfect day. It had recently rained enough that the water was flowing, but not too scary fast. It was sunny but not too blazing hot. And we successfully found the trail to hike to the Hemmed-In-Hollow waterfall from the river. I felt like I was living out the perfect day that we so often encourage our audience to do in these pages of the magazine. I hope as you read all about our rivers that you are inspired to book your own perfect day this summer.

Logan Aguirre Publisher | logan@417mag.com

M E M B E R

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Photo courtesy Logan Aguirre

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

[ EDITOR’S NOTE ]

HIGH STANDARDS. HIGH EXPECTATIONS.

LAZY RIVER D

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hy-vee.com 1720 W. Battlefield Road 417.881.1950 2150 E. Sunshine Street 417.444.6860 22

417 MAGAZINE • 417MAG.COM

worn out. But when I sat next to the spring and dunked my hand into the water, something magical happened. The weight of the day just washed away. I could feel the ground below me, the water rippling through my fingers and the sun on my shoulders—and I felt better.

Some version of that feeling happens every time I wade into one of the rivers near 417-land. These waterways that cut through the Ozarks provide us with recreation and helped shaped our communities—and those are big, quantifiable things. But they also bring us out of the funk of the everyday and into something clear, bright and beautiful.

If you haven’t spent much time on the river, take this issue as your sign to get out there and find the spot that feeds your soul. There are an awful lot of waterways here; we’re sure you’ll find a favorite.

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

My Favorite Page, 78 I’m absolutely obsessed with the work of photographer Julie Blackmon. The pieces I love the most, like this one titled Riverside, are compositional masterpieces with so many elements to explore. I just can’t stop looking at this image!

Photo by Brandon Alms

SIZZLING SUMMER SAVINGS

id you know being a river rat is hereditary?

Well, sort of.

In this issue’s cover story all about the Ozarks’ gorgeous waterways, Sony Hocklander writes that people who love spending time on rivers tend to be people whose parents loved it too—whose parents took them to the river from a young age.

This tracks. I grew up exploring Black River and Johnson Shut-Ins in Southeast Missouri with my parents, so I suppose the river rat in me was cultivated long ago. Today, my stomping grounds are farther west, but I still prefer the clear and cold water of a spring-fed river over any lake or beach.

Almost seven years ago, my husband, my kids and I drove to Ironton, Missouri (not far from Johnson Shut-ins and Black River) for my grandpa Jack Pollock’s funeral. When I think of my grandpa, I think of the land surrounding his little house, the fields full of cows and the wooded hillside that led down to a tiny rippling creek. I couldn’t tell you how many hours I spent at that creek when I was a kid. It was a lot. After Grandpa’s funeral, everyone hung out at his house, reminiscing and saying goodbye. It was an emotional day.

On the way home, we stopped at Meramec Spring Park—a spot we have visited many times with our kids. It’s quiet and peaceful—and, of course, there’s water. I was still in the dress I had worn to his funeral, and we were all tired and

[ CONTRIBUTORS ]

In This Issue Meet some of the talented photographers and writers who contributed to this edition of 417.

Joshua Beecher is an adventurer, photographer, and videographer based in Springfield who is fueled by a profound passion for the great outdoors. His photography beautifully captures the essence of nature, re ecting his deep connection with the wilderness.

Turn to p. 64 to see some of his work.

Photos by Brandon Alms, courtesy Joshua Beecher, Julie Blackmon, Sony Hocklander, Joy Roberson

Julie Blackmon is a native of Springfield whose photographs are inspired by growing up the oldest of nine children. Her captivating work appears in many permanent collections, including the ational Gallery of Art, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, and many more. See some of her work starting on p. .

Sony Hocklander is a journalist, photographer, editor and video producer with a -year history of storytelling in the Ozarks and a passion for the outdoors.

She focuses on outdoor travel writing and photography and on printed outdoor photo art. She wrote “Take Me to the River” starting on p. 64.

Heather Kohler has worked as an interior and fashion stylist for over years and studied color, textiles and art in Paris, France. She has worked with 417 for over years, specializing in local home content. She resides in i a with her husband and two young sons. Read her stories on p. .

After years in the Ozarks, Joy Roberson knows a thing or two about the local food scene. The former news anchor and lifestyle television host and current Realtor is the host/producer of Midwest Family Broadcasting’s new Savor the Ozarks podcast. Read her review of Mythical ich on p. .

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417 MAGAZINE

23

1

where’s

417?

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

2 3

1. NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

2. ARLINGTON, TEXAS

3. BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA

Maxxe and Katie Heifner traveled to the Destrehan Plantation in Louisiana with their copy of the “Dining Day Trips” issue.

Debbie Nelson and Jim Smith brought their copy of the “Craveable Lunches” issue to the Cotton Bowl in Arlington, Texas.

Lura Faye traveled to the Polo Lounge at Beverly Hills Hotel in California with her copy of the 2023 “Best of 417” issue.

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2

4 3

1. LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA

2. BARCELONA, SPAIN

3. TULSA, OKLAHOMA

4. PARIS, FRANCE

Josh Kingham and Erin Payne with their copy of “Pickleball is Life” on the boardwalk in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Lynn and Janet Morris, Brian and Sally Garber, Theresa Gilmore, Ahmad Rassti, Jimm and Alfie Swafford brought their copy of “The Ultimate Guide to Arts and Culture”issue to Barcelona, Spain.

Randy and Lori Murawski traveled to the Mayo Hotel in Tulsa with their copy of the “Where to Eat Now” issue.

The Wotherspoon-Nelson family traveled to Paris with their copy of the 2022 “Top Doctors” issue.

New Sandals St. Vincent and the Grenadines

where’s

1

417?

1. DILLON, COLORADO Bekka Hansen, Isaac Renkoski, Kristian Hansen, Erik Hansen, Evan Baehr, Lydia Hansen, Lincoln Amstutz and Philip Hansen traveled to the Loveland Ski Area with their copy of the “Where to Eat Now” issue.

2. ISLA TORTUGA, COSTA RICA Sheree Sharpe, Haley Noel, Jane Nixon, Deanna Beckenholdt and Kate Nixon traveled to Costa Rica with their copy of the “Giving Back” issue.

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2

1

2

3

1. PARIS, FRANCE

2. COLUMBIA, MISSOURI

3. COCOCAY, BAHAMAS

Ellis and Brecklyn Thomas, Savanna Gier, Jim and Sheri Quade, Nicole Gier, Jamie and Dixie Thomas brought their copy of the “Giving Back” issue with them to Paris.

Nathan Inman and Erin Hillis brought their copy of the “Craveable Lunches” issue to the Gans Creek Cross Country Course in Columbia.

Charlie Smith, Amanda Smith, Nathan Inman and Derrick Smith traveled to the Daredevil’s Peak Waterslide with their copy of the “Ten Glamping Getaways” issue.

417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

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 I SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM, 33  ON FILM, 36

Photos by Joshua Beecher, courtesy Andy’s Frozen Custard

 GO FOR THE GOLD, 38

huddle

UP

Cam Bruffett and Springfield’s new arena football team, the Ozarks Lunkers, are gearing up for the 2024 season. Read more about the team on p. 38.

417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

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best

PLACES TO SPLASH AROUND Cool off this summer at an easy-to-access local spot wading spot.

Splash around at Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area, perfect for wading due to its shallow water levels.

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417 MAGAZINE • 417MAG.COM

Photo by Chuck Travers

BY LAUREN FLYNN

The

1

BUSIEK STATE FOREST AND WILDLIFE AREA

Highlandville Woods Fork—a stream located at Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area—is a great place for wading because of its calm, shallow water. From the Busiek parking lot, there is only a short walk to the stream. There you splash around a bit, skip rocks, spy crawdads and enjoy the scenery. And remember: The waterway can get pretty shallow during dry seasons.

2

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GRAND FALLS

5685 Riverside Dr, Joplin Spend a peaceful day at Grand Falls in Joplin, a -foot-wide continuously owing waterfall located on Shoal Creek. Plenty of places are available to sit on the gravel banks and wade in the water. The waterfall provides a relaxing soundscape, and the at chert areas beside the river are excellent spots for kids to play around outside the owing water.

3

CRIGHTON BEACH

3100 S Farm Rd 193, Springfield Go to the Crighton Beach access along the James River in Springfield for a beautiful view and a serene experience soaking up the sun.

Sitting in a shady area or wading in the water is the perfect way to spend a hot summer day.

Pack a picnic too; there are a few tables nearby where you can break for a snack.

4

BULL CREEK

203 Ashland Dr, Branson If you’re in the Branson area but don’t want to commit to a day on the lake, there’s an option there for you. A great spot for kids and families, Bull Creek offers shallow, clear water that is good for wading or peeping the critters in the river like crawdads and small fish. ou can also enjoy some beautiful scenery while you’re there.

5

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LOWER FLAT CREEK ACCESS

25100-25166 SSR-EE, Cape Fair This spot provides a peaceful view of Flat Creek with many surrounding trees. Multiple banks are available where you can sit and enoy the water. ou can rela and maybe bring a good book while you listen to the sounds of nature all around you.

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O T A D ABO T

agenda This month, plan a staycation in 417-land and spend a week living like a tourist at home.

BY THE EDITORS

FOR A GIRLFRIENDS STAYCATION Listing name: The Wild Rose 417 This fun house near Commercial Street features brightly decorated rooms that are all meant to be Instagrammable. Just about every space is a photo op. So grab your girlfriends and a few bottles of wine, and make this spot your home for a weekend while you go out and enjoy the town together.

sweet A-frame with sprawling two-story windows that look out onto the woods. Inside there are also some charming features, like a spiral staircase and interesting woodwork. Outside, there’s a firepit, a hot tub and woodsy views. It’s a good place to go as a couple or with grown-up friends who just want to unplug and relax.

FOR A FAMILY STAYCATION 

WHERE TO STAY Three quirky Airbnbs give you a chance to feel like you’re on vacation—even if you’re only a few miles from home.

Listing name: Pickwick District Lots of Charm There’s loads of Rountree charm in this five-bedroom house that is walkable to lots of charming shops and eateries at the intersection of Cherry Street and Pickwick Avenue. There’s room for the whole family in the house, so plan to head down the road to paint pottery at Artistree, grab lunch at Tea Bar & Bites, shop at Culture Flock, then spend the afternoon at Tie & Timber Brewery—all without moving your car.

FOR A QUIET RETREAT STAYCATION Listing name: Treehouse in the Ozarks Between i a and Highlandville, you can find a

Photos courtesy Orth Investment Group, Roza Homes, Kylie Wright

STEP 1: WEAR THE GEAR ould you visit C without getting your hands on an Heart ew ork shirt to take home ope. So do the same when you’re a tourist at home. Dress the part by buying some -land or Springfield swag from Five Pound Apparel (5poundapparel.com). We’re partial to the “Hike MO, Bike MO and Float MO tees that give off big local love and vintage ational Park poster vibes to capture your Springfield pride.

STEP 2: GET SUMMER’S HOT TICKET

five easy steps

FOR BECOMING A SUMMERTIME TOURIST AT HOME

Spend at least one day of your summer vacay at home attending either a Springfield Cardinals baseball game (springfieldcardinals.com) or an Ozarks Lunkers arena football game (ozarkslunkers.com). The Cardinals are always a fun time, and the Lunkers are new this summer!

STEP 3: SWEETEN THE DEAL Take a break from sightseeing to get some of summer’s sweetest local treats. Go with a classic, like Pineapple Whip (pineapplewhip.com) or Andy’s Frozen Custard (eatandys.com). Or, you could

opt for something a little newer to the scene and visit Box Turtle Creamery (instagram.com/boxturtle_creamery for a si -scoop ight of creatively avored homemade ice cream.

STEP 4: HIT THE LAKE And when we say the lake of course we mean Table Rock Lake. Rent a boat, find a quiet cove, and swim the day away. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for Crisco the Mountain Goat. If you spot him, it’s good luck. (Okay, Crisco is real, but that good luck thing isn’t. But if we print it, maybe it’ll become a thing.)

STEP 5: HOP ON A THRILL RIDE The ultimate tourist attraction for thrill seekers staycationing at home is Silver Dollar City. f you haven’t visited in a few years, make this summer the one that brings you back. The beloved original Fire in the Hole is gone, but the new version is open this season and is worth checking out. It’s bigger and better, yet it still has entirely the same quirky vibe.

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33

C RRE TS

BEH D THE SCE ES

LIFE’S A PICNIC Joshua Widner and Angela Houska behind spread out a blanket for our pretty picnic photoshoot. See the full story on p. 58.

BRANDON ALMS Senior Designer & Photographer “There is no better way to enjoy a hot summer day than a oat trip with a cooler filled with drinks on the Jack’s Fork spring-fed river.

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JORDAN BLOMQUIST Custom Publications Editor & Staff Writer

A TO E JO

NICKI SHERWOOD Account Coordinator

“I love a picnic by the water! In the summer, I enjoy packing a picnic blanket and my current read, picking up snacks from MaMa Jean’s and heading down to the river.

“Here’s my pro tip: Before you put in at Swan Creek, stop into Kay’s Country Store in Chadwick for the thickest deli sandwiches to pack in your cooler. They make them fresh to order, and they ust hit the spot.

MCKENZIE ROBINSON Advertising Designer

KAITLIN MESSINA Account Executive

JO JOLLIFF Research Editor

“I grew up on the Current River in Van Buren and as a kid, and I loved to hop on an inner tube and oat the river. Sometimes I would ditch the tube and just swim, and it was such a fun e perience

“My favorite way to enjoy 417-land rivers is getting a group of friends together and going on a oat trip ou truly never know what memories might be made on the river, but they sure do last forever

“While I enjoy kayaking at James River, my family’s favorite summer tradition is grabbing ice cream cones from Andy’s and driving along the river with the windows down.

Photos by Katy St. Clair, Brandon Alms

staff poll

HAT S O R FA OR TE THE O ARKS’ R ERS

what we

LEARNED

THE ELEMENT

by Westin

“I’ve been really into picnicking lately, and with a park within walking distance of my home it’s quickly becoming a habit. I absolutely loved the picnic checklist on p. 59! It gave me so many new ideas to try out for my next picnic.”—Art Director Sarah Patton (read “From Basket to Blanket” on p. 58) “While talking to Julie Blackmon, who artistically photographs around the Ozarks, and Rebecca Holopter, who is using the Ozarks as a backdrop for her first feature film, I gained an appreciation for the picturesque beauty of 417-land.”—Custom Publications Editor and Staff Writer Jordan Blomquist read The River Series” on p. 74) “I grew up in 417-land and enjoy our local waterways thoroughly. However, Sony Hocklander’s feature “Take Me to the River,” showcased several oats an springs that I haven’t visited yet, so I’m excited to add those to my list!

Plus, I love learning about the historical significance of our local rivers, and why they still matter today.”—Biz 417 Editor and Managing Editor Dori Grinder read Take Me to the River on p. 64

Photo by Chuck Travers

“My husband is a football fanatic and doesn’t know what to do with himself once the Kansas City Chiefs season comes to an end. I was so excited to learn about the new arena football team, the Ozark Lunkers. I know he’ll be pumped to check out a game, and I’ll be equally excited to enjoy concession snacks!” Research Editor Jo Jolliff read Legends in the Making” on p. 38)

MONEY WE CAN’T STOP TALKING ABOUT

The staff at ust finished up a Personal Financial Literacy course taught by our Finance Manager, JJ Massey, from the Great Game of Business Personal Finance Basics and Strategies workbook.

We’re now ready to get debt free with the best credit scores!

COMING SOON FROM BRYAN PROPERTIES A new way to stay. Our new Marriott hotel, the Element

by Westin in Branson.

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PROFILE

BRINGING MYSTICISM TO THE OZARKS Actor and Springfield native Rebecca Holopter is gearing up to film her debut directorial feature in the Ozarks.

BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST

E

verybody has that one place they go to for peace—to decompress and just get away from it all. That’s the setting for Rebecca Holopter’s first feature film, Big Mike’s Cabin. It’s a story about two friends who have a dream of owning a flower shop.

However, when that dream implodes and one of them moves away, they decide to reunite at a cabin in the Ozarks to navigate through their grief. “There’s definitely some mysticism going on,” Holopter teases. The film draws inspiration from her own experience with her co-writer and best friend, Verity Butler, following the collapse of a project they poured their hearts

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into. “It was our baby for 10 years and it meant a lot to us,” Holopter says. “It hit us hard, and there was a lot of grief over it.”

The cast for Big Mike’s Cabin is already stacked. Jane Flowers is the casting director, and Christian Camargo (Dexter, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn—Part 1 and 2) is playing the lead male role. “He usually plays bad guys, but in this, he’s playing a spiritual, enigmatic weirdo,” Holopter says. “I think he’s going to be really great.” The movie is slated to start filming this year, and Holopter is hoping to secure screenings at major film festivals early next year.

Local Ties The actor, writer, director and producer is from Springfield, went to grade school in Rogersville and graduated from Missouri State University in 2006 with a degree in theater performance. In 2007, Holopter moved to Los Angeles, California, to join the entertainment industry. Over the years, she has appeared in numerous commercials for brands such as Blue Bunny, Ring Alarm and Morgan & Morgan.

She has showcased her talent as a producer by staging plays in L.A., including Crimes of the Heart, which sold out every night. She and Butler also created a short film called Finding Keanu about two best friends traveling through the desert looking for actor Keanu Reeves, which was featured in several film festivals.

Showcasing her love for the Midwest through Big Mike’s Cabin, Holopter wants to emphasize all the Ozarks has to offer. “I really wanted to show the warmth of the people there—the craftsmanship there,” she says. “It’s just so charming and so magical.” She plans to film around Springfield at locations like McSalty’s Pizza—where she worked throughout college—and her grandma’s basement near Lake Springfield, as well as around Table Rock Lake.

“This is my first feature directing, and having it being filmed in Missouri feels like the sweetest most supportive thing on the planet,” Holopter says. “I’m so grateful and appreciative that it’s happening this way. It’s a scary thing to do, and I feel so supported by my home.”

Photos courtesy Rebecca Holopter

Rebecca Holopter co-directing for Soiled Doves, a short film the she also starred in.

ON VIEW NOW

ELDREDGE GALLERY

FREE admission

Rebecca Holopter as a child with her dad at Table Rock Lake.

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Rebecca Holopter (right) on the Finding Keanu short film shoot in .

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BEAUTIFULLY STRAIGHT SMILES

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OLIVIA COLMAN She played Queen Anne in The Favourite, Hannah in Tyrannosaur and Leda in The Lost Daughter.

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GRETA GERWIG She wrote and directed screenplays for Barbie, Little Women and Lady Bird.

Set up your free orthodontic consultation today, with board certified orthodontist Dr. Steven Harrison.

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SPORTS

LEGENDS IN THE MAKING Cam Bruffett and the brand new Ozarks Lunkers Arena League football team are ready tackle their first season in 417-land.

BY KALI SALAZAR

A

good football team is only as strong as their coach, and Cam Bruffett plans to pour everything he has into his new position as head coach of Springfield’s new Arena League football team, the Ozarks Lunkers.

Born and raised in 417-land, Bruffett’s football ca38

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reer began at Fair Grove High School. After graduation, he continued his career at Evangel University for four years as a defensive back and received all-conference recognition each year he played. He joined the coaching staff at Evangel in 2015, but decided he wasn’t quite done playing and contin-

ued to pursue a career with The Pittsburgh Power Arena Football League. At the end of their season, he signed with the Cleveland Gladiators and played for about a year and a half before leaving the AFL due to a hamstring injury.

In 2016, he accepted a position that aligned more with his passion for coaching and became the offensive coordinator at Logan Rogersville High School. In 2023, Bruffett got the opportunity to become the head coach at Parkview High School, where he currently still coaches. “I plan to be here for a long time, and it’s a special place to me,” says Bruffett. “I get to continue coaching at Parkview at the same time as I coach the Lunkers.”

As Bruffett gears up for the Arena League’s inaugural 2024 season, he is excited for fans to experience all the arena has to offer and to share his

Photos by Joshua Beecher

Cam Bruffett and the new Ozarks Lunkers Arena Football team members are gearing up for the 2024 arena league season.

Interior Design By

D E N I S E KAY W R I G H T

Ozarks Lunkers coach Cam Bruffett right signed on some of the team’s players. In addition to the Lunkers, Bruffett coaches at Parkview High School.

passion for football with those who attend a Lunkers game. He’s also happy to say that the environment in the arena will be 100% family-friendly. “All the shows will have family-friendly entertainment with exciting football, dance teams, face painting for kids, concessions and more,” says Bruffett.

When talking about his vision for the Ozarks Lunkers, he says they’re planning to go all in and work hard to develop a championship caliber team. “We’re going to give local talent and stars the opportunity to play professional football,” says Bruffet. He is proud to say most of the 17 players they’ve selected for the team are 417-land natives.

Bruffett encourages fans to follow the Lunkers’ social media to learn about this brand-new team and build excitement while the Ozarks Lunkers prepare to make their big splash out on the field.

MAKE YOUR PLANS! The Ozarks Lunkers Kickoff Game is scheduled for June 1 at the Wilson Logistics Arena. ou can also catch the Lunkers at their other home games on June 15, July 6 and July 13. If you’re up for a road trip, check out their schedule online and join them for a few away games during their season.

TICKETS Get tickets online at ozarkslunkers.com.

Kids tickets are always off, so grab your whole family for a fun day of football with the Ozarks Lunkers.

DKW Designs Design Awards Best Dining Space 2022 Design Awards Best Bathroom Winner 2020 Design Awards Best Bedroom Winner 2020 Homes of the Year Winner 2019 dkw.design • 417-350-4520

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EXTEND AND ENHANCE YOUR LIVING SPACE...

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DO GOOD

NaviLens provides an inclusive experience for the visually impaired by allowing guests to scan QR codes for information.

seeing through

HISTORY

History Museum on the Square incorporates NaviLens for an improved and inclusive visitor experience.

BY LAUREN FLYNN

Photos by Katy St. Clair

I

n recent months, History Museum on the Square (154 Park Central Square, Springfield; 417-831-1976; historymuseumonthesquare.org) has been using a new program that will enhance the guest experience and provide more accessibility to the museum’s exhibits.

The museum has an interactive, engaging environment where people can learn about Springfield and its history. Even though it contains many exhibits and extensive information, staff members realized that these features were not easily reachable for everyone. “Our goal is to be more accessible so that everybody can learn our stories,” says the museum’s business manager, Charlotte McCoy. They decided to make improvements by adding NaviLens as a new feature.

NaviLens is an app that is designed to help those who are visually impaired and those who do not have English as their first language. Without it, some people struggle to see the panels and read the information they display. Through the app, people can scan a series of QR codes on the museum’s first floor that will tell them about various exhibits and provide wayfinding guides. It gives the option to

read the marker’s information out loud and has 33 different language settings including sign language.

Only nine markers are currently available, but the museum is planning to expand NaviLens access. “We’ve got mostly safety ones, such as the exit, staircase, restrooms and elevator, but then we have the marker in front of the Native American gallery, which talks about that actual gallery,” says McCoy. She also plans to have signage on the glass window located in front of the museum, so people using NaviLens can scan it and learn about the museum.

McCoy says that they decided to incorporate NaviLens after the Missouri Federation of the Blind—Springfield Chapter came for a tour. McCoy says that she is a visual learner and would rather watch videos and experience the interactives than read each panel. “This might not be as easy for a visually impaired person. Therefore, the museum is excited to implement a tool that will help,” she says.

They were able to learn more about the wayfinding NaviLens app from a museum staff member who took a trip to Europe and used the app in English.

History Museum on the Square’s facts and features provide amazing opportunities for people to learn more about Springfield. With NaviLens, the history will be able to reach more people. “We want to make sure that we’re sharing the stories with everyone,” McCoy says.

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HIT THE ROAD

getaway to

KANSAS CITY

Discover vibrant Kansas City in a summer weekend filled with opportunities like the Boulevardia urban festival, Kansas City Royals sporting events, new dining experiences, craft breweries and expansive shopping destinations.

BY EM BLACKSTONE

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1

START WITH A STREET FEST

Mark your calendars for June 14th and 15th and experience the ultimate two-day urban street festival taking over Crown Center and Washington Square Park. Boulevardia will have everything you need from events to entertainment, and plenty of food and drinks in between.

It is one of the largest showcases of music and culture with almost 70 musicians, a makers market and other special experiences.

2

CHEER FOR THE ROYALS

Calling all baseball fans! Join thousands of fans cheering on the two-time World Series champions in their upcoming season. Experience the thrill of the game while soaking in the warm summer heat at Kauffman Stadium. ndulge your taste buds with all the stadium classics like steaming pizza, crispy nachos, peanuts and hot dogs. Secure your spot in the stands by getting your tickets at mlb.com.

HIT THE ROAD

TRIP INFO

REASON TO GO

Photos by Emily J. Davis for Kura Sushi, courtesy KC Bier Co.

Summertime activities Sample sushi from Kura Revolving Sushi Bar (above) where you’ll select your dish on a interactive touchpad and be served via a gliding conveyor belt. Then pay a visit to KC Bier Company (right) for live music and a variety of beers.

3

EXPERIENCE NEW KC EATS

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar (200 W 47th St , Kansas City, kurasushi.com) is an innovative food service restaurant that has recently launched in Kansas City. Customers can watch their food arrive on a conveyor belt. Green Dirt on Oak (1601 Oak St, Kansas City, greendirtfarm.com/oak) is the place to go for farm-to-table excellence. Enjoy farm fresh food that comes straight from their Green Dirt Farm and other local farms.

TRIP LENGTH

Weekend TRAVEL TIME

2 hours 40 minutes each way

4

TOUR THE BREWERIES

Boulevard Brewery (2501 Southwest Boulevard Kansas City, boulevard.com has fun-filled events like trivia nights, bingo nights and other events. Or opt to tour a smaller spot, like KC Bier Company (310 W. 79th St, Kansas City, kcbier. com), perfect for when you have a taste for the rich avors of authentic German-style bier, or are craving something new. Come for events like Friday night film night and live music nights.

5

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP

The Country Club Plaza (4706 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, countryclubplaza.com) is an iconic Kansas City destination that spans 15 blocks and is home to a blend of over 70 stores, more than 45 of which are locally owned. Or head to The City Market (20 E 5th St #201, Kansas City, thecitymarketkc.org), home to a farmers market composed of indoor and outdoor stands full of local produce, baked goods and crafts.

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Transform your backyard into a place of relaxation and entertainment.

TIMBER FRAMING PERGOLAS PORCHES CUSTOM DECKS Local owners with 30+ years of experience, Doug and Cody Tapken are committed to delivering exceptional results and exceeding expectations.

417-262-6404 OzarkDeckAndTimber.com

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JOIN US FOR A SUMMER OF FUN

Exploring the Pauline Letters Galatians, Ephesians and Philippians

BEST SUMMER EVER Friday Movie Nights

VBS

Weller & McGregor

Outdoor movies with popcorn and ice cream for all!

July 17-21: 5–5:45pm community dinner and VBS 6–8:20pm

August 17: A Day of Giving

May 31: Finding Nemo

Sunday, 10:30am followed with a block party

June 14: Finding Dory

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Interior and Exterior Painting Residential and Commercial Locally Owned and Operated Independently owned and operated franchise. ©2022 Five Star Painting SPV LLC. All rights reserved.

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417-720-2376 | FiveStarPainting.com

Doug & Andrea Windsor, Owners

CALENDAR

JUNE CALENDAR This month is packed with everything from live performances and interactive activities to outdoor events and festivals for the whole family to enjoy the summer season together.

BY KALI SALAZAR

ROUNTREE HISTORICAL WALK AND TALK SERIES 

Photos by Brandon Alms, courtesy Shutterstock

JUNE 1

Head to the Rountree eighborhood the first Saturday from June to September for Historical Walks and Talks. These events will feature myriad experts including historians, craftsmen, designers, architects and Rountree Do-It-Yourselfers. Light bites and drinks will be provided for participants.

Free; 7 p.m.; Rountree Neighborhood, 1010 South National Avenue, Springfield. Visit eventbrite.com for more details.

KAM PATTERSON

THROUGH JUNE 1 Kam Patterson went from a humble beginning to a rising comedy star after appearing on the Kill Tony show. His quick wit and comedic timing have thrown this rising star into the spotlight and he’s not leaving Springfield before making sure you laugh out loud. $25–30; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/events.

SPRING RIVER PIONEER DAYS THROUGH JUNE 2

Head to erona for the first annual Spring River Pioneer Days! The festivities will include a street dance, stagecoach rides, re-enactments, a staged bank robbery, a campfire and s’mores and more There will also be vendors with products and gifts available for purchase.

Free; all day, The Square in Verona. For more information, call 417-850-0337.

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CALENDAR

ELEVATE YOUR GRILLING GAME

Pitts & Spitts Charcoal Flat Top Grill

THE OPTIONS ARE ENDLESS Choose from top products in the grilling game and start the outdoor kitchen of your dreams.

GUYS AND DOLLS

THROUGH JUNE 16 Get ready for a crowd pleaser and one of the best musical comedies of all time, Guys and Dolls.

Infused with drama from a tense engagement, a gambling plan, and a strait-laced missionary, Guys and Dolls takes you from Havana to the sewers of New York City and beyond. $22–42; showtimes vary; Landers Theatre, 311 East Walnut Street, Springfield. For tickets, visit springfieldlittletheatre.org or call 417-869-1334.

OZARKS LUNKERS GAMES

JUNE 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

SOMETHING’S SMOKING

Explore exciting new opportunities in catering and BBQ classes with The Grill Guys!

417-647-5002

GrillGuys417.com 932 US Highway 60 E, Republic, MO 65738 46

417 MAGAZINE • 417MAG.COM

The all-new Arena League is set to kick off its first season on June and Springfield is home to one of the league’s very first teams, the Ozarks Lunkers Cheer on the local Ozarks Lunkers as they battle it out on the indoor field at the new ilson Logistics Arena at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. In addition to football, enjoy live entertainment, giveaways, food, drinks and more. $15–180; times vary; Wilson Logistics Arena, 3001 North Grant Avenue, Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit ozarkslunkers.com.

FROM ASHES TO NEW: BLACKOUT TOUR PT. 2 POINT NORTH, EKOH, PHIX AND ELIJAH JUNE 3

From Ashes To New boasts an anthemic hybrid of hard rock, electronic, hip-hop and alternative music that gets you to dream again. This inspirational band seeks to get you up on your feet and

to change your life to be what you want it to be.

Don’t miss their show as they make their way to the Gillioz stage. $35; 6 p.m., Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E, Springfield. To purchase tickets, visit gillioztheatre. com and navigate to the events tab.

BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

JUNE 6–8, 10–15

Follow along as 16-year-old Carole King pitches her song in 1958 and transforms from an aspiring teenage songwriter to one of the most in uential and honored artists of a generation. The performance follows her musical career while telling her inspirational story along the way.

Prices vary per show; times vary; John Goodman Amphitheatre, 901 S National Ave, Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit tenttheatre. missouristate.edu.

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK

JUNE 7

Experience incredible works of art from local artists, e plore downtown Springfield art galleries and more at the monthly First Friday Art Walk event. This free and self-guided tour is available to all art lovers looking for inspiration or to enjoy local pieces in -land. t’s a great place to find that perfect piece of art for your wall at home.

Free; 5-10 p.m.; various venues, downtown Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit springfieldarts.org/first-friday-art-walk or call 417862-ARTS.

CALENDAR

CHAD DANIELS: THE EMPTY NEST TOUR

JUNE 7–8

With six albums and almost one billion streams, Chad Daniels has become one of the most listened-to comedians of all time. Originally from Minnesota, Chad has now been touring the country for more than 20 years and is ready to take the stage in Springfield. $30–35; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/events.

Your guide to summer fun!

2024 SOUTHWEST MISSOURI HEART WALK

calendar.417mag.com

JUNE 8

The Heart Walk is a great way to get moving and socialize with friends, family and co-workers all while supporting a good cause. The focus of the Heart Walk is to boost your heart health and mental health while helping millions of others at the same time.

9 a.m., Jordan Valley Park, 635 E Tra cway St, Springfield. For more information, visit www2.heart. org and search for the walk in your city.

2024 MAKING MEMORIES DAY CARNIVAL

Photo by Katy St. Clair

JUNE 8

Join On Angel’s Wings for an for their annual Making Memories Day carnival. The event consists of carnival game booths from local businesses, a live DJ with karaoke, bounce houses, carnival snacks and special appearances from your favorites princesses and superheroes.

1 30-4 p.m.; Shrine Mosque, 601 East Saint Louis Street, Springfield. For more information, visit theshrinemosquespringfield.com and navigate to the events tab.

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CALENDAR

ANNUAL MAKING MEMORIES DAY: AFTER DARK - 80S THROWBACK GALA!

JUNE 8

Join On Angel’s Wings for an 80s throwback gala supporting medically fragile children and their families. Enjoy dancing, neon, pop hits, food, drinks and more at this 80s extravaganza. Don’t forget to dress in your best 80s garb for the chance to win the costume contest.

6:30 p.m.; Shrine Mosque, 601 East Saint Louis Street, Springfield. For more information, visit theshrinemosquespringfield.com

2024 OZARKS FOOD TRUCK RALLY  JUNE 8

It’s almost time for the 2024 Ozarks Food Truck Rally! Enjoy gourmet food trucks featuring burgers, pizza, BBQ, tacos, hot dogs, sandwiches, desserts and so much more. There will also be local vendors and live music for you to enjoy while you treat your tastebuds.

Free; 11 a.m.; Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 North Grant Avenue, Springfield. For more information, visit ozarkempirefair.com and navigate to the event calendar.

JUNE 8

Fill your afternoon with great music, food vendors, cold drinks and more while you help support a great cause. Stomp the blues out of homelessness while enjoying music from Tab Benoit, Damon Fowler, Heather Gillis, WolfTwin and Mr. Larry McCray. $35; 1 p.m.; Community Blood Center of the Ozarks, 220 West Farm Road 182, Springfield.

Visit stompthebluesoutofhomelessness.com for more information.

SPRINGFIELD CARDINALS GAMES

JUNE 11–16, 25–30

See the Springfield Cardinals take on the orthwest Arkansas Naturals and the Arkansas Travelers this month at the Cardinals home games.

Enjoy some pretty cool promos like Purina Woof ednesday, Friday night fireworks and more throughout the month!

Prices vary per game; times vary; Hammons Field, 955 East Tra cway Street, Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit milb.com/ springfield/ballpark or call 417-863-0395.

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EMMA WILLMAN

JUNE 14–15

Actress, podcaster and comedian Emma Willman has become a fast-rising star on every stage.

With experience performing at clubs, colleges and festivals all over the world, her comedic tricks and skills are sure to keep you entertained as she wows you with her vibrant presence and hilarious honesty. $20–25; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/events.

THE NEW WAVES LIVE! JUNE 15

Join The New Waves Live at Wilson Logistics Arena! Enjoy their fun music as they combine the synthesizer and sax to bring back the 80s new wave sound. They’ve got it all and they’re making their way to Springfield stages Ticket Price TBA; 5 p.m.; Wilson Logistics Arena, 3001 North Grant Avenue, Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit allevents.in/springfield and search for the event.

Photos by Brandon Alms courtesy Matt Turner, Springfield Cardinals

13TH ANNUAL STOMP THE BLUES FESTIVAL

CALENDAR

CRIMES OF THE HEART

JAY MOHR

Join the Magrath sisters as they’re reunited for the first time in years. Follow along as old resentments simmer and passions bubble up to the point of exploding. In order to escape the past and move forward in their family, each sister must face their own “Crimes of the Heart.”

Prices vary per show; times vary; John Goodman Amphitheatre, 901 S National Ave, Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit tenttheatre.missouristate.edu.

With more than 30 years of comedic experience, Jay Mohr is a skilled performer with many tricks up his sleeve. Bold, hilarious and unapologetically honest, Jay is a comedic force to be reckoned with. In addition to his comedic experience, he is an accomplished actor and will not fail to amaze you with his amazing performance. $35–40; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/events.

FARMERS MARKET OF THE OZARKS’ SUMMER KICKOFF

NAMASTE ON DECK: A MORNING YOGA CRUISE

JUNE 21–22, 24–29

JUNE 27–29

JUNE 22

JUNE 29

Celebrate the official start of the summer season at Farmers Market of the Ozarks’ summer kickoff event. Shop fresh produce, handmade goods and more. There will also be activities for kiddos, so bring your whole family to celebrate!

9 a.m.; Farmer’s Park, 2144 E Republic Rd, Springfield. For more information, visit the Farmers Market of the Ozarks’ Facebook page.

Join us for our latest exclusive, boutique Experience 417 event a peaceful morning yoga session on the top deck of the Showboat Branson Belle.

Enjoy a tranquil yoga session while setting sail on Table Rock Lake. Use coupon code Yoga417 for off purchases of two or more tickets. $45; 7:30–9:30 a.m.; Showboat Branson Belle, 4800 Historic Highway 165, Branson. For tickets visit 417mag.com/experience417.

FRISCO RAIL FEST

JUNE 15

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, courtesy Shutterstock

Head to Commercial Street to celebrate the inaugural Frico Rail Fest highlighting the importance of the railroad in orth Springfield. Browse exhibits, watch the trains, participate in development conversations and more.

Free; 8 a.m.; C-Street City Market, 321 East Commercial Street, Springfield. For more information, visit allevents.in/springfield and search for the event.

WATERSHED SUMMER GALA

JUNE 21

Celebrate 40 years of Watershed’s Clean Water Community at the annual Summer Gala. Enjoy live music, craft beer, a silent auction, a whiskey pull and more. Don’t miss this chance to have a memorable evening while supporting a good cause. $75; 6 p.m.; Wire Road Brewing Company, 4453 S Timbercreek Ave, Battlefield. For tickets and more information, visit watershedcommittee. org.

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A summer vacation to remember.

"I’m two weeks out of the year. Make me worth it!"

- Vacation Your Vacation is asking for thrills, and we’re answering the call. Branson is jam-packed with coasters, water rides, ziplines, ice cream, and everything else that makes your Vacation scream for joy. Find out more at ExploreBranson.com.

 ROCK THE BOAT, 53  SUNNY SEASON, 57

outside life’s a

PICNIC

Photo by Katy St. Clair

Pack an idyllic, picture-perfect picnic with the perfect menu.

Find our tips on p. 58.

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PROMOTION

B E YO N D B US I N ESS

Jeramey & Julia Henson, Owners

HM DENT WORKS Paintless Dent Repair

2647 W. Bennett St. | Springfield

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417-840-8525

Hmdentworks.com

Photo by Morgan Lea Photography

A

alterations to the original parts or paint. In some t HM Dent Works, the company is dedicated cases, utilizing car insurance for payment may not to ensuring individuals are aware of their even e necessary.

Dent Works rights concerning car repairs. emphasizes individuals’ rights to select The company aims for everyone to feel their preferred repair service, despite confident and ell informed a out “We want insurance recommendations. their decisions. Specializing in the art Based in the Ozarks, HM Dent Works form known as Paintless Dent Repair, people to know takes pride in its origins and treats HM Dent Works performs like magic, they have the each customer as a friend rather than restoring cars to their original condition right to pick merely a customer. heir o ective ithout the need for fillers or paint, where they get extends eyond fixing cars they also even after experiencing dents, minor their car fixed.” endeavor to educate customers a out collisions or hail damage. availa le options, ena ling them to When faced ith dents caused y make informed decisions regarding hail, door dings or minor crashes, their car repairs. For HM Dent Works, Paintless Dent Repair emerges as the choosing aintless Dent Repair should e the optimal solution. It facilitates swift repairs while primary option for car repair needs. preserving the car’s original appearance, without

EXPLORE

Whatever Floats Your Boat Summer is the season for float trips.

Take to the waterways for these unique float trip experiences.

BY JO JOLLIFF

FOR A GLOWING NIGHT River Ranch Resort riverranchresort.com Float the beautiful and expansive Elk River under the stars at River Ranch Resort’s weekly Glow Floats. These -mile oats take place every Friday night throughout the summer and allow participants to oat on glowed-up tubes with all sorts of glow-in-the-dark necklaces, bracelets and other accessories.

FOR AN GUIDED TRIP 37 North Expeditions 37northexpeditions.com Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a relaxing riverside day, 37 North Expeditions’ adventures are a good place to start. Join them for a kayak trip along James River on June 30.

They’ll travel at a leisurely pace with stops on gravel bars and time to explore swimming holes along the way. If you’re seeking a bit more adventure, try one of their Buffalo River Guided Paddle & Hike events.

Photo by Chuck Travers

FOR A FUTURISTIC EXPERIENCE Hovercraft River Adventure Tour at Camp Tomahawk floatcamptomahawk.com New this year, Camp Tomahawk on the James River is offering tours on a Hovbug hovercraft, a land-and-water vehicle that hovers over an -inch cushion of air. t can seat up to five people, so you can bring a few friends or the whole family to oat over the water as you travel down the James.

Float James River for a close-to-home river experience.

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DAY TRIP

Springboard into Outdoor Fun Kick off your summer with a tour de springs getaway, starting with a visit to Missouri’s stunning Blue Spring.

B

lue Spring’s moniker doesn’t sound very original—in fact, Missouri has two Blue Springs. But this hidden gem at the Current River earns its name and then some. About 20 miles east of Eminence, the 17-acre Blue Spring Natural Area makes an ideal outdoor destination for any skill level, including families with kids.

The spring water, framed by bluffs and lush foliage, is so beautifully sky blue it almost looks like dye. In fact, lore has it that Osage American Indians called it “spring of the summer sky.” Visitors will find a 54

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wooden overlook walkway and several other spots to relax with a picnic while enjoying the views.

The pool’s color isn’t the only thing that sets Missouri’s sixth largest spring apart. Its output of 90 million gallons of water a day bubbles up from depths so deep, at 300 feet it could hold the Statue of Liberty.

And the pretty spring branch that flows from the spring to the Current River is home to wildflowers, colorful warblers, kingfishers, red-shouldered hawks and more.

There are two ways to see Blue Spring on foot: Walk a quarter of

a mile from the Blue Spring Trail parking area, or hike the 1.5-mile river trail from Powder Mill Campground, five miles away on Missouri 106. To reach the short trail, travel two and a half miles down a gravel road off Missouri 106 that’s steep in some places. Park in a small gravel lot that includes a picnic table and facilities. A trail leads toward the Current River and turns left leading to the spring.

For a longer hike, start at the Powder Mill Campground. Park near the boat ramp and look for the Powder Mill/Blue Spring trail. Fol-

low the trail south along the Current River about a mile and a half, then continue along the Blue Spring Trail for another quarter mile. You can paddle the Current River from Powder Mill to the Blue Spring Trail.

Blue Spring is only one natural wonder in the area and certainly not the only spring. Alley Mill and Spring is 35 minutes west of Blue Spring on Missouri 106. Add a visit to the red iconic mill and take a short hike around the turquoise spring pool— another Missouri beauty.

On your way to Alley Mill, plan also to stop at Rocky Falls and

Photo by Joshua Beecher

BY SONY HOCKLANDER

Klepzig Mill, less than 30 minutes southwest of Blue Spring off Route HH. If you’re in the mood for more hiking, take a 6-mile out-and-back trail between Rocky Falls and the mill.

Continuing your tour, just 25 minutes from Alley Mill is Round Spring—another deep blue easy-to-see beauty near the Current River. Stay overnight at Echo Bluff State Park, in an Eminence area rental or at a nearby campground.

For more river time—and yet another spring— book a float from the Pulltite Spring Campground to Round Spring. Stop along the way where a short trail leads to the spring and a nearby cabin. Your spring adventure is a cool way to make warm summer memories.

REASON TO GO Explore a hidden gem

Photo by Joshua Beecher

DISTANCE FROM SPRINGFIELD 148 miles GENERAL DIRECTIONS Drive from Springfield to Eminence to pick up Missouri 106 east toward Ellington. In about 13 miles, watch for Blue Spring signage before a righthand turn onto CR 106-535.

From here, follow a 2.5-mile gravel road to the Blue Spring parking area.

For an alternative route to hike from Powder Mill Campground, turn right off Missouri 106 onto CR 106-531.

MORE INFORMATION mdc.org

Custom homes by Austin Miller Austin Miller, Owner/Operator | President, Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield Brandon Ward, Project Manager

Wise-Built.com | 417.689.4224

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IN THE GARDEN

grow sunny

SUNFLOWERS

Plant your sunflower seeds now to enjoy a perfect crop of grown-at-home blooms in late August and September.

BY HEATHER KOHLER

Photo by Katy St. Clair

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ugust and September are the perfect time to enjoy sunflower blooms, and lucky for us, sunflowers can be easily sewn right into the ground. Now’s the time to make some room in your garden or outdoor space, because nothing says summertime like these happy flowers. “I love sunflowers because they are easy to grow, dramatic, and they add so much character to a garden,” says homesteader Amy Taylor.

You can plant your seeds in garden beds, or plant them in containers. “I always plant more seeds than I actually need, that way if critters get a few or if some don’t germinate, you still have plenty of blooms,” says Taylor.

If you want to enjoy sunflowers that have fall color in them, try varieties like chocolate cherry, or red sun sunflower seeds from Baker Creek (92278 Baker Creek Road, Mansfield, rareseeds.com).

If you’re looking for towering sunflowers, the Mongolian giant can grow up to 14 feet tall. “I

like to plant them in groupings. They will be so dramatic and they will all lean on each other for support as they grow tall,” says Taylor. You can also plant them along a wall or fence for builtin support. Just make sure you plant your seeds somewhere that gets plenty of sun, because sunflowers need six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day.

Sunflowers are great as cut flowers. Bringing a hand-picked bouquet from your garden into your home can be quite magical, and since these flowers are so easy to grow, anyone can enjoy growing them, even if you don’t think you have a green thumb. Leaving some blooms out in your garden will attract wildlife as well. “At the end of the season when the flowers are dried up, leave them standing tall. You’ll have beautiful songbirds and finches visiting you every day enjoying the seeds,” says Taylor. “This is one of my favorite things about the end of the season.”

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PARK IT

Angela Houska enjoys picnicking with her husband in their backyard.

From Basket to Blanket Create a care free and stylish picnic in your own backyard with these helpful tips.

BY HEATHER KOHLER

SET THE SCENE Choose a blanket that provides some cushion between you and the ground, but also has a bit of whimsy to it. Floral chintz quilts make great picnic blankets, as do blankets with gingham, paisley pat58

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terns or cabana stripes. Bundling atware is another organization tip that adds a pop of pattern or color to your setting. Simply wrap a vintage handkerchief around forks and knives and secure them with a knot. Don’t forget to bring along some entertainment. always bring an activity to do traveling watercolor, no or checkers, says Houska.

Find more of Houska’s ideas at @hello.haveaseat.

PICK THE PERFECT SPOT Look for a shady picnic spot under a tree and make sure it’s a bit scenic. e recommend finding a cozy corner of your own backyard, but our local parks are packed full of lovely picnic spots waiting to be enjoyed too. The Kissinger family— Jeff, his wife, Jamie, and their five children are big fans of a picnic. have a soft spot for Jordan Valley Park—especially when the fountains are on, says Jeff. athanael Greene is another favorite picnic spot for many 417-landers. Set up under the large oak trees at the east end of the park or find a shady spot ust outside the Hosta Garden. love athanael Greene, says Houska. ’m always sure to visit the Butter y House before or after my picnic. f you want a view of water, Liz Logan,

owner of Private Picnic Co., recommends a lake as a backdrop to your ne t picnic. Lake Springfield is a standout choice, offering stunning sunset views over the water, says Logan.

PLAN THE PERFECT MENU Prepare foods that you can keep fresh. When the weather is hot you have about an hour before perishables need to be refrigerated. Choose foods that are easy to transport and eat outdoors, says Logan. Consider items that can be made ahead of time and served at room temperature. Fresh fruit, nuts and heirloom tomatoes are easy foods to bring along and pasta salads make easy makeahead sides. e are sandwich people, says Kissinger. They’re portable, completely customizable and zero waste. Fancy up your spread with a homemade cheese ball and serve with crackers.

CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF Don’t forget to bring a few trash bags along with you so you can leave your picnic area as clean as you found it. Using biodegradable plates and cups and bringing fabric napkins and tea towels from home will make your picnic an earth-friendly affair.

Photo by Katy St. Clair

PACK RIGHT Everyone loves a cute wicker basket for picnicking, but try using an insulated tote with compartments for food instead. You’ll have padding to cushion glasses and jars of food and can use your wicker basket for other items like your blanket and dinnerware. Pack salads and sides in mason jars so you’ll have cute serving containers that won’t spill and are easily transportable. love upcycling empty, tiny Bon Maman am ars and filling them with salt and pepper for picnics, says foodie Angela Houska. The standard ones work great to hold a pre-made cocktail, wine or any beverage of choice. Bringing along a small cutting board is a great way to slice up things like whole fruits or blocks of cheese. Keeping away insects is another thing to think about when packing for a meal outdoors. like to bring bug repellent incense sticks to place nearby to keep the bugs away, she says.

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OUTDOOR LIVING

The Simons decided if they were going to spend money on an extension to their house, they wanted something they’d love.

THE COTTAGE PORCH The Simon family has created a peaceful outdoor escape with their screened-in back porch.

BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST | PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS

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uke and Krystal Simon have created a sweet escape within the city by adding a beautiful screened-in back porch to their home. “The screened-in porch has really turned into one of our most favorite spaces in the house,” Krystal says. “We use it all the time.”

They completed the addition in August 2023, and have since enjoyed having peaceful dinners with family and friends, hosting parties and just relaxing in the space with their three children.

Krystal often kickstarts her quiet mornings on the screened-in porch with a cup of coffee and 60

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her devotions. “It’s everything,” she beams.

“We’ll have the fireplace going, you can hear the birds chirping, it’s just a great oasis.”

They decided to add the space to their home after spending much of their time at the lake and wanting to bring that serene atmosphere to their home in the off-season. “We always viewed the lake as a place where you can get away, and that was our desire,” Krystal says. “We love this outdoor rustic feel that is secluded and intimate, but at the same time it’s part of our house.” (continued p. 62)

OUTDOOR LIVING

The porch is an extension of the house. The Simons worked to match the stone and style inside the house.

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(from p. 60) In addition to the changes on the screened in porch, Krystal also updated their front porch to give it a sense of home with lush greenery and vintage lanterns. “I love the feel,” she says. The rocking chairs complement other farm-style features and mirror Krystal’s interior design style, creating a cohesive and cozy ambiance that also matches the inside of the home.

Beyond the aesthetics, what truly makes these porch spaces special are the memories they create with friends and family. “It’s a privilege to have this space, so we want to do good with it,” Krystal says. “For us, that means opening up our home to others.”

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Top Rusty MacLachlan custom-built the Simons’ home.

They are the second family to live in it.

Right They added pops of color with blue decor throughout the porch space.

Far Right Krystal filled a lovely window box with shade-loving plants on the front porch.

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Local rivers and their related lakes play a crucial role in the wild and wonderful playground we call the Ozarks.

BY SONY HOCKLANDER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOSHUA BEECHER

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If you live in 417-land, you

live near a river. And that’s something to celebrate.

Ozarks waterways shaped the land where we live, work and play, and our way of life would look very different without them. That’s especially true for people who enjoy spending time outdoors, and for those whose livelihoods are linked with outdoor tourism.

Rivers have always been crucial to life in the Ozarks, says Mike Kromrey, executive director of the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks located at Valley Water Mill Park. Indigenous people, early settlers and explorers like Henry Rowe Schoolcraft were drawn to Ozarks streams for access to drinking, growing crops, running grist mills and transportation. And while public use leans more recreational now, “economically speaking, they’re still tremendously important,” he says.

Not only do rivers and lakes provide natural places to swim, fish, boat and float, the outdoor tourism dollars they generate are an economic boon. For instance, the Missouri Department of Conservation estimates trout fishing and related activities contribute $382 million to our state each year. Roaring River, Bennett Spring and Montauk state parks—three spring-dependent trout parks in the Ozarks—saw nearly 3 million visitors in 2023. That doesn’t include anglers casting for trout and other fish in nearby rivers and lakes.

In addition to their economic and recreational benefits, a river is a place to find peace and balance: “Rivers have healing and grounding power,” says Kromrey, an outdoor enthusiast and longtime advocate for clean water, healthy rivers and conservation practices. “I haven’t met a single person who doesn’t love the river.”

For all those reasons and more, spending time at a river is an Ozarks tradition. For one thing, people who live in urban areas yearn for green space, fresh air and natural resources, says Dena Matteson, Chief of Interpretation, Planning and Partnerships for the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

And it becomes a generational thing.

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‹ WH I TE RI V E R Of all the rivers in 417-land, the White River reigns for its impact on the Ozarks in Missouri and Arkansas. The damming of this river and its watershed tributaries literally shaped the land and lakes we enjoy today, especially Table Rock, Taneycomo and Bull Shoals near Branson, and Beaver Lake in Arkansas. That also includes Norfork Lake (formed by damming the White River’s North Fork in Arkansas. Most are border lakes straddling Missouri and Arkansas, and all are great spots, along with the White River itself, to boat, swim, fish, camp and hike.

Wake up: Boating on Table Rock—whether pleasure-cruising, waterskiing or bass fishing is a lake life summer staple. f you don’t own a boat rent The lake is lined with small resorts that offer rentals, as does Table Rock’s State Park Marina (stateparkmarina.com), where you’ll find ski boats, bass boats, pontoons and aveRunners, plus tubes and skis.

Or book a guided Catamaran Cruise. Find similar amenities at the other hite River atershed lakes.

Anglers choice: hether fishing on the hite River or one of its lakes, anglers have options Fly- and spin-cast on the river near any of its dams, or at Lake Taneycomo, to land cold-water trout. Or fish for bass, crappie, walleye and catfish in warmer river and lake waters.

Camp out: Summer is the best time for lakeside camping and there are endless locations. But you better book early Popular Corp of Engineers campgrounds at Table Rock that fill up fast include Mill Creek, Old Highway , Cricket Creek, ndian Point and Ba ter (recreation.gov), as does Table Rock State Park (mostateparks.com).

Best of both: One of the most versatile parks to camp, fish, boat and paddle is the Bull Shoals- hite River State Park in Arkansas (arkansasstateparks.com), which straddles the lake and river. Find a great overlook of the dam at the visitors center and visit Big Spring in the hite River campground where y fishing is the sport of choice.

were a child, it’s probably because your parents came with their parents,” Matteson says. Year after year, “we see families that have close personal ties and feel that this is their river, no matter where they come from.”

LIFEBLOOD OF THE OZARKS

Small boats motor up and down along the White River near Mountain Home, Arkansas, occasionally passing a kayak or an angler on the bank. The river is wider here than its floatable tributaries, and swift as it rushes past picturesque wooded bluffs, small pools and shoals, remote homes and small river communities. It’s truly a trout-fishing paradise.

Altogether, the White River snakes 720 miles through Arkansas and into southern Missouri, its flow disrupted by eight primary dams and their resulting lakes including the border-straddling Bull Shoals and Table Rock, plus Lake Taneycomo in 417-land.

No body of water has had as much impact on the Ozarks as the White River, says Ozarks historian Dr. Brooks Blevins, a professor at Missouri State University who hails from Arkansas. It’s the biggest river that originates in the Ozarks and it flows through its heart, he says.

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› OZARK NATIONAL SCENIC RIVERWAYS

The Jacks Fork (a tributary of the Current) and the Current River are free-flowing protected rivers that are popular destinations for floating and fishing. They are known as the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

Spring e ri er oats Three stretches of the upper Current River make beautiful oat trips, and two outfitters Jadwin Canoe Rental (jadwincanoe.com and Carr’s Canoe Rental (carrscanoerental. com) can get you to them. Outfitters for the Jacks Fork River can be found near Eminence.

All three sections of the Current feature springs to visit. Between Cedar Grove and Akers Ferry, elch Spring ows from a cave into a small deep blue pool that ows rapidly into the river. The stop also includes the ruins of elch Hospital. Between Akers Ferry and Pulltite Campground, paddle into Cave Spring, a large cavernous opening large enough for canoes where a spring rises directly into the river. And between Pulltite and Round Spring campgrounds, pull off to walk a short trail to see Pulltite Spring and an old cabin.

Photo by ivian

heeler

ild horses are a common sighting near the Jack’s Fork and Current Rivers. Snap a pic, but don’t try to interact with them.

“I’ve always considered the White River the lifeblood of the Ozarks,” he says. “From an economic standpoint, from a settlement standpoint, from a cultural history standpoint. The importance of Branson tourism and the kind of central role the river and its tributaries like the James River play.

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Today, your most visited lakes—outside Lake of the Ozarks which is a completely different animal—are in the White River Watershed.”

DAMS AND RECREATION

For more than 100 years, Ozarkers have tried to tame the White River. Because of frequent

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‹ E L E V E N POI NT NATI O NAL WI LD & S CE N I C RIVER If you prefer a more remote river getaway in southeast Missouri, the federally protected Eleven Point River—with historic mills, a gorgeous spring tributary and six upper river access points—is for you.

Mills at Eleven: The remnants of two historic mills with springs along the Eleven Point make fascinating stops on your oat. ou can’t miss the only remnant left from Turner’s Mill. The towering -foot wheel at Turner’s Mill orth Access is about nine miles east of Missouri on the river’s northeast side. A trail leads from a picnic area to the wheel and cave spring, making a nice addition to your oat. Tip Turner’s Mill also has a South Access. Or launch at one of several oat camps upstream from Riverton to pass Boze Mill. Pull off to see a pretty spring, an s turbine and a historic rock wall.

Spring branch side trip: f you’re staying in the area, don’t miss hiking to Greer Spring and its fairy-like spring branch.

Missouri’s second largest spring, its cold clear water ows over . miles to the Eleven Point, transforming the river into a trout angler’s playground. The trailhead for the . -mile out-and-back trek to Greer Spring is about a mile from the Eleven Point River off Missouri . After visiting the spring, follow a new trail to the historic Greer Mill.

flooding and the need for electric power, the river’s first dam—Powersite in Forsyth—was built and operational by 1913.

Wrangling the river and its North Fork tributary with hydroelectric dams continued through the 1960s, producing Table Rock, Bull Shoals, Beaver, Norfork and

other lakes. That ushered in entertainment, especially around Branson.

The Bull Shoals Dam certainly changed the landscape and how the waterway was used in Arkansas, says Jackie Rupp, an interpreter with the Division of Arkansas State Parks at the Bull Shoals-White River

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› JAM E S R IVE R What’s better than floating an Ozarks river?

Floating nearby! You can get on the James near Springfield for a paddle, tubing or an afternoon of river-sittin’ and still be home by supper.

Family day out: For a day trip your family will love, try Camp Tomahawk near Galena floatcamptomahawk.com . Rent tubes for a two-mile shuttled mini- oat your kids can do over and over. Bring a cooler for a picnic lunch on a gravel bar and don’t miss the rope swing For a unique adventure, book a ride on Tomahawk’s new HovBug, a hovercraft that ies over water up and down the river.

Float trips: Book a canoe or kayak oat trip near Galena through James River Outfitters for two or five miles jamesriveroutfitters. com), or James River Canoe Rental for five or miles (jamesrivercanoerental.com). earer to Springfield, Hootentown Canoe Rental hootentown.com offers four-, seven- and -mile oats.

Stay close: Paddle the James River ater Trail at Lake Springfield where you can launch your own vessel or rent from the boathouse (parkboard.org). Or cool off at the Joe Crighton Access east of town, a great place to swim and fish.

Let a guide do the work: orth E peditions offers James River adventures that include a kid-friendly outing with ice cream sundaes on a gravel bar.

State Park two hours south of Springfield. “This was a great area to fish for small mouth bass,” Rupp says, “but when they built the dam—because it pulls the water for generation from the bottom of the lake—it’s super cold water. Bass cannot live there. So the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission started stocking trout, which is a big sport fish. Folks come to fish for trout here at the park and all along the White River.”

Waterway recreation didn’t originate with dams and lakes, Blevins says. “The real recreation industry on Ozarks rivers starts in the late 1800s. And the White River would have been the premier destination for that, and its tributaries. What I’m talking about is, really, the early version of what we call a float trip,” he says.

Today’s floats are typically paddle adventures in kayaks and canoes. But in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a float trip meant

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a multi-day fishing excursion in a flat-bottomed Ozark johnboat with a guide, typically employed by affluent or upper- middle-class men from urban areas including Springfield, St. Louis and Kansas City.

By the early 1900s, johnboat tourism had become Branson’s “calling card,” Blevins says.

Johnboat floats ended when the White River near Branson was swallowed up by dam-formed lakes, but Branson’s reputation for tourism endured.

PRESERVING WILD RIVERS

Similar johnboat floats were happening on tributaries of the White, Blevins says, evolving into the float and fishing trips we enjoy today on the watershed’s federally protected wild rivers, so designated as a result of the national environmental movement of the 1960s.

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‹ NIANGUA RIVER The Niangua is the only river on this list that flows north. It’s one of the easiest, recreation-packed rivers to access locally.

Fun in the sun: To oat the iangua on a weekend is akin to joining a oating party.

Music on the river Coolers full of beer Festive oating friend groups Check, check and check. f you like to commune with nature in unspoiled wilderness, this is not your river. But for olly summer weekends with friends, it doesn’t get any easier than to book a cabin or campsite and add a oat through one of many river outfitters.

Angling for trout: For many, the iangua and Bennett Spring State Park (mostateparks.com) are synonymous when it comes to fishing. Each day, Bennett Spring sends more than million gallons of water down a pretty stream branch to the iangua, making the river oatable nearly year-round and luring anglers of all kinds to fish the park’s troutstocked waters.

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Recreation at wild rivers ticked up after August 24, 1964, when 134 miles of the free-flowing spring-fed Current River and its tributary, the Jacks Fork, became the first federally protected river system known as the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The movement also led to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968—extended to the nearby Eleven Point River, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service—and the designation in 1972 of the Buffalo River as America’s first national river. All four wild streams are part of the White River Watershed.

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If not for federal management of the Current and Jacks Fork, says Matteson with the National Park Service, you might be floating by man-made “intrusions,” such as public and private homes and buildings instead of wilderness and woods. Or like the White River, the Current and the Jacks may have been dammed. The Buffalo National River was

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‹ F I N LEY R IVER Sometimes all you need is good food and a pretty river walk. That’s where the Finley shines.

A tributary of the James River, the river through Ozark is long known for its community recreation and scenic bridges. Today it sets the scene for riverside dining and outdoor play.

Enjoy shore-side scenery: Dine with a view of the Finley at Ozark Mill Restaurant. The last commercially operating watermill in the state of Missouri was renovated for the restaurant and a general store, now part of the historic Finley Farms finleyfarmsmo.com). After your meal, stroll the landscaped grounds to admire the Riverside Bridge built in . Cross the bridge for more great views up and down the river.

tapped for such a fate before it was saved. “Of course reservoirs have their place and they’re wonderful recreation areas, and provide different things to our lives,” Matteson says. But preserving these rivers in their natural state, unmarked by damming, also preserves their cultural and historic significance to the southern part of Missouri, she says.

NPS management of land around the Scenic Riverways—with the exception of two-mile gaps before and after the towns of Eminence and Van Buren—also ensures conservation practices protect intricate cave and spring systems. “This is a world-class spring system, unequaled anywhere

else in North America. And it’s one of the highest densities of caves in any natural park in the country. The springs feed these rivers. That they’re available for the public to enjoy today is a wonderful benefit of having these two rivers preserved.”

Fishing Ozarks streams evolved, too.

Not native to the Ozarks, trout were introduced to local waters in the late 1800s,

Play at the park: Finley River Park in Ozark is the site of festivals, craft fairs, holiday light tours and summer movie night events all by the river. n summertime, families can wade in some spots or en oy riverside picnics. Bring your kayak for an afternoon getaway of fishing and paddling about a mile upstream and back.

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and angling for trout has since become a strong outdoor industry.

Over time, trout have propagated in wild streams too, with the best sections designated as Blue Ribbon Trout Areas.

LOCAL STEWARDSHIP

Federal designation isn’t the only way to protect Ozarks rivers. It’s important we all do our part to help keep them clean and healthy.

Our actions make a difference, especially for the nearby James and Little Sac rivers. “We get a lot of our drinking water from the James and a lot more of it from the Little Sac River, which is captured at Fellows Lake and McDaniel Lake, and then brought back from Stockton Lake—all part of the Little Sac system,” Kromrey says.

Whether you prefer to cast a line, dip a paddle, or simply gaze at our rivers, their health should matter to all of us. That’s why the Watershed Committee and other area nonprofits focus on education, civic action and measuring river quality. “There are over 40 species of fish that are indigenous or that live in Ozarks streams,” Kromrey says. “And they’re supported by a whole community of macro-invertebrates—aquatic insects and crayfish. We can use an assessment of what’s living in the stream to gauge how healthy the stream is.”

That health improves when communities care. That’s why it’s important to advocate for our waterways and encourage community members to feel ownership and stewardship. Add native plants to your garden. Reduce erosion. Support greenways. Dispose of chemicals responsibly.

“It’s less about what you do when you’re on the river,” Kromrey says, “and more about knowing that the river truly starts right in all of our backyards.”

› N ORT H FO R K O F T H E W H I T E R IVE R If you love to paddle and fish, head with friends or family to the North Fork of the White River in Southeast Missouri.

Cast about for trout: A Blue Ribbon Trout Area from Rainbow Spring to Patrick Bridge, the orth Fork lures anglers from all around the Ozarks. hether fishing from the bank, wading the stream or casting from a kayak, you’ll find lots of trout thriving in this river’s cold water.

Let a guide lead: ot sure where to find the best trout spot Book a guide through River of Life Farm riveroflifefarm.com , located along the banks of the Blue Ribbon area. our guide will take you out on the river, provide equipment, teach you how to use it and even cook you lunch.

Spring forth: The orth Fork especially popular with paddlers along its lower section is fed by nine ma or springs, some of which can be accessed while oating. That includes Blue Spring, which emits seven million gallons of water daily. Paddle to the spring ust downstream from Hammond Camp or reach it by hiking a short trail from the orth Fork Campground. Another spring, Althea, can be accessed via a short path from Patrick Bridge.

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Photos courtesy TK photographers

To capture the aerial perspective in River, Blackmon sought help from a neighbor, who got her into a bucket lift 50 feet above the river.

THE RIVER SERIES Photos courtesy TK photographers

The Ozarks are the backdrop for Springfield photographer, Julie Blackmon, whose work is celebrated and displayed around the world.

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The destination in the photo Riverside is where Blackmon keeps her wooden raft docked, and her family has spent countless hours right there. “The retaining wall and the stairs have probably been there for 75 years or more, and I’ve always thought it looked so European,” Blackmon says. “Like Lake Como or something, where you can descend these ancient concrete steps to the greenish-blue water below.”

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t age 19, Springfield native Julie Blackmon wore her first camera everywhere, its long strap casually slung over her shoulder. “I was kind of into it from the very beginning,” she says of her interest in photography. That Canon AE-1 was a catalyst for what is now a successful and fulfilling career in photography. Her work has graced the covers of TIME magazine, the halls of museums around the world, the pages of the New York Times and the homes of celebrities like Reese Witherspoon and Elton John.

Blackmon began to consider photography as a career in 2005—taking photos of her children, then the neighbor’s children. Soon she started taking classes. “It went on to be about way more than just my immediate surroundings,” Blackmon says. She transformed her images into profound statements on social constructs and captured everyday moments in a charming, whimsical way.

Blackmon started as a photographer but evolved into an artist using photography as a medium. She is influenced by not only photography and its rich history but also paintings and illustrations. There is not merely a single thing that keeps Blackmon motivated to keep creating, because “I feel like it’s within me,” she says. “I can’t imagine stopping. There’s something cathartic about each piece I start.” (continued p. 82)

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To create Night Swim, Blackmon and her crew ventured to the river at 7 p.m., emblematic of her and her family’s own experience of going for evening dips. “Luckily, we didn’t see any snakes,” Blackmon says. She used a seven-foot-tall umbrella light, and the strobe of the light actually made the photo appear darker.

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Capturing Finley River started as an e ploration to see how figures looked layered in the water. t was kind of the life we were living that day, Blackmon says. Some photos are more fictionalized by me and some of them are, ‘Well this is what’s happening so let’s get it.’”

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This image, entitled Flatboat, was just acquired by the National Gallery of Art and will be shown alongside George Caleb Bingham’s famous painting The Jolly Flatboatmen in a 2026 exhibit. “I’m super excited about that,” Blackmon says.

(from p.79) Specific to the river series, Blackmon was inspired by Missouri painter George Caleb Bingham—specifically his paintings titled The Jolly Flatboatmen and Fur Traders Descending the Missouri. The former inspired her photograph titled Flatboat, which is an updated take on the painting and mixes age, race and gender. “It is interesting to me how famous pieces of art— seeing them—allows you to see your own life, or my own life, in a different way,” Blackmon says. Flatboat was just acquired by the National Gallery of Art and will be shown alongside Bingham’s The Jolly Flatboatmen in an exhibit in 2026.

Blackmon has referred to her photographs as “a fantastical look at everyday life,” and she has no plans of abandoning that vision anytime soon.

“You only see yourself as good as your next new piece,” Blackmon says.

“The joy really comes from just doing the work itself.”

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PROMOTION

Photo courtesy The Keeter Center

BRANSON

GUIDE Experience the Ultimate Summer Getaway in Branson! Discover an array of attractions, shows, adventures and endless fun awaiting you.

Explore everything happening in this guide.

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PROMOTION

What to see A highlight for visitors is the renowned Silver Dollar City. This 1880s-themed amusement park combines thrilling rides with nostalgic experiences, offering an unforgettable journey back in time. Be sure to visit the brand new $30 million FIRE IN THE HOLE indoor family roller coaster, the largest in the Heartland.

When to go Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore this summer. Table Rock Lake is home to 14 public marinas and 24 public boat launches, making it easy to rent a boat or bring your own. Golf aficionados can tee off at championship courses like Branson Hills Golf Club and Top of the Rock Golf Course. Hiking and biking trails in the Henning Conservation Area and the White River Valley Trail System offer scenic exploration. Thrill-seekers can indulge in off-road adventures with Pink Jeep Adventure Tours.

Whether it’s on the water, the fairways or the trails, Branson promises unforgettable outdoor experiences for all.

What’s new The Immersive Disney Animation attraction is also new to Branson and a must-visit. This cutting-edge experience transports guests into the magical world of Disney through state-of-the-art technology and storytelling.

Tip To make the most of your trip, be sure to utilize ExploreBranson.com. This invaluable resource provides insider tips, comprehensive guides and itineraries to help plan the perfect getaway.

Don’t miss From beloved stage shows to celebrated comedians, from musicians to magicians, there are plenty of shows to choose from. Known for its incredible live music shows, Branson has more than 100 performances that span all genres and interests, such as The Hughes Brothers, Clay Cooper’s Country Express, Dustin Tavella and Sight & Sound Theatres.

Birch & Willow Spa is Branson’s newest premier luxury day spa. They invite you to join them to find bliss, inner peace and a holistic range of services right in the heart of Branson. The mother/daughter owners, Jodi Lilly and Jami Kysar, have a combined 34 years of licensed massage therapy expertise.

BIRCH & WILLOW SPA

Exploring Branson and embarking on a scenic boat ride across the tranquil waters of Table Rock Lake offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and leisurely adventure.

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Photo courtesy Branson CVB

BRANSON, MISSOURI Your vacation needs adventures of a lifetime in Branson, Missouri. As nature awakens and temperatures rise, this picturesque city nestled in the Ozark Mountains offers a plethora of attractions and activities to captivate visitors of all ages.

BRANSON GUIDE

PROMOTION

What’s new Birch & Willow Spa is introducing a new Personalized Facial Package. For $350, clients will enjoy a 30-minute customized facial coupled with a 30-minute consultation to include product knowledge and an at-home regimen. Additionally, clients will receive three customized facials spread across three months.

Don’t miss Amenities include a lounge, locker room complete with robes and slippers, infrared dry sauna and showers stocked with shampoo, conditioner and body wash. The spa also provides a variety of services, such as massages, facials, body treatments, nails, hair, waxing, spray tans and more.

What to try Try the Radiant Glow Package, which includes a 60-minute exfoliating body wrap, a 60-minute relaxing massage and a 60-minute Anti-Wrinkle or Calming Recovery facial.

Tip Come early and stay late. Warm up and unwind in the sauna and relax in the lounge.

Shower off before you head out and enjoy the rest of your day.

CHRISTOPHER & BANKS

C U R A T E D

A D V E N T U R E

Christopher & Banks has been outfitting women in comfort and style since 1956.

They design for women who are in search of wardrobes that reflect their lifestyle. The brand strives to create high-quality, original and affordable clothing designed in the United States and brought to customers by a team with over 150 years of combined experience with the brand.

What’s new This season is all about comfort and style!

From capris and skimmers to novelty tops in assorted prints, Christopher & Banks will be the destination for great fit and function this summer.

N A M A S T E O N D E C K | A M O R N I N G YO G A C R U I S E JUNE 29

Don’t miss Exclusive prints and patterns, a consistent and accurate fit in sizes 4-24 and great quality at a value price are what keep cherished customers returning to shop with Christopher & Banks.

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BRANSON GUIDE What to try Customers have to try Christopher & Banks’ Signature Slimming pant collection.

Available in a variety of fabrics and styles, all are designed with a flexible tummy-smoothing panel for a sleek silhouette and great fit. Customers love the denim so much they call them “magic jeans.” Also popular is the Relaxed.RESTYLED collection—where activewear and leisurewear connect—combining comfort and ease with sophistication and style.

Tip Visit their location in the Tanger Outlets Branson, or shop anytime online at christopherandbanks.com.

BRANSON LANDING AND MORE

What’s new Branson Landing welcomes four new establishments: Flaming Margarita American

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Kitchen, Crepes N’ Cream, Southern Living Store and Elysium—a toy and gaming store.

Swing into summer at Branson Hills Golf Club. The club introduces its new Club Car Fleet, featuring plush seats and GPS navigation. Tee times can be booked at bransonhillsgolfclub.com. Don’t forget to check out Magnolia Grille before or after golfing.

What to see Everything at the Branson Landing—from anchor stores like Bass Pro to Belk, complemented by 17 restaurants and over 80 retail shops and attractions. Plus, don’t miss the scenic boardwalk stretching along the 1.5-mile Taneycomo Lakefront.

MYER HOSPITALITY

Don’t miss The fountain shows at the Branson Landing.

Guests will be amazed by the dazzling interplay of water fountains shooting 120foot geysers and fire cannons blasting, all choreographed to light and music.

Myer Hospitality’s four Branson hotels: Best Western Center Pointe Inn, Comfort Inn at Thousand Hills, Comfort Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express Green Mtn. Drive promise quality service tailored to their guests’ needs, regardless of their chosen accommodation in town. All hotels offer relaxing indoor pool and hot tubs.

Also, Level 2 Bar, located just outside Level 2 Steakhouse, offers an exceptional selection of drinks along with the full menu from the steakhouse.

What’s new The Comfort Inn & Suites owned by Myer Hospitality stands as the most decorated Comfort Inn in the brand’s history,

PROMOTION

BRANSON GUIDE

ranking among the top 1% nationwide.

Additionally, renovations are underway at the Best Western Center Pointe Inn, with plans to introduce new features in their A building.

Photo courtesy HCW Management Company

What to try Myer Hospitality’s hotels offers a variety of room types based on each person and family’s needs. All hotels have rooms that can sleep up to six people, as well as suites for a romantic getaway.

Tip Myer Hospitality offers vacation planning and ticket services without service fees, making vacations easier and more economical. Guests can also access dining publications at all their hotels for added convenience.

Branson Landing, nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Taneycomo, offers a vibrant blend of shopping, dining and entertainment, making it a bustling destination for visitors seeking a lively experience in the heart of Branson, Missouri.

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SILVER DOLLAR CITY Silver Dollar City’s Ozark Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Arvest is a party in the streets. Find old-fashioned fun in every fold of the 1880s theme park from June 8 to August 4 with visiting performers, legendary folklore and nostalgic food.

Don’t miss Family entertainment during the dog days of summer includes the return of The Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience. These high-flying pups will raise the “woof” and wow the crowd with cool canine tricks.

Meet up in Rivertown to beat the heat and see if the Professor can make it rain or if he’s just selling flimflam during The Rainmaker street performance. Also in Rivertown, get your toes tappin’ with the jazzy sounds of the Rivertown Ramblers who offer up a delightful dose of Dixieland. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of high-energy music and worship as the Grammy award-winning Christian rock band Newsboys takes the stage at Echo Hollow® Amphitheatre on June 15.

THE KEETER CENTER The City’s carefree fun goes well into the moonlight from July 13 to August 4 with Summer Nights. Guests of all ages will bust out their best moves at the Summer Nights Dance Party on Town Square each evening from 7:30-10 p.m. Enjoy extended ride hours and a fireworks finale during Summer Nights.

What to try Guests will have plenty of food options, too, with The City’s “Summer Tasting Passport” featuring some new favorites such as grilled pineapple skewers with piña colada dipping sauce, strawberry crunch funnel cakes, chicken cobb shaker salad and more.

What’s new The entertainment and festival fare provides a beautiful backdrop for The City’s 40 rides and attractions, including the new Fire In The Hole, which is sure to be a new family favorite. For more info, visit www.silverdollarcity.com or download the free Silver Dollar City app.

Experience the essence of summer at The Keeter Center’s College Creamery!

As temperatures soar, there’s no better way to savor the season than with a scoop of premium ice cream from The Keeter Center’s College Creamery. Renowned for its unparalleled flavors and top-tier quality, this is where summer dreams come true.

The day begins before dawn, with dedicated agriculture students from College of the Ozarks® tending to Holstein, Jersey, and Guernsey cows at the award-winning W. Alton Jones Campus Dairy. Fresh milk is lovingly collected, expertly pasteurized and bottled by these same students. Then, with skill and devotion, another group of hardworking students transforms this liquid gold into Nettie Marie’s Homemade Ice Cream, a tribute to a beloved figure in the College’s history. It’s a tradition rooted in heritage, where students earn their education through hands-on experience.

What to try Let’s talk flavors. From the rich, creamy indulgence of espresso custard to the fruity delight of strawberry ice cream, there’s something to please every palate. Dive into classics like Oreo mint and vanilla custard, or venture into more adventurous territory with raspberry mascarpone and coconut almond fudge. And keep an eye out for seasonal sorbets and flavors that capture the essence of summer.

Photo courtesy Silver Dollar City

Tip For the ultimate treat, enjoy your ice cream in a homemade waffle cone or take home a batch of student-made waffle chips, sprinkled with cinnamon sugar and drizzled with white chocolate. It’s a taste sensation you won’t soon forget.

Don’t miss Ready to embark on a culinary journey? Treat yourself or a loved one with a gift card, available online at keetercenter.edu. Experience the magic of the College Creamery, where every scoop tells a story of passion, tradition, and hard work.

Make your way to Silver Dollar City for an exhilarating ride on the brand-new Fire In The Hole, guaranteed to delight the entire family.

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 THE SUB HUB, 92  BIG TUNA, 95  LAVENDER HAZE, 96

heavenly

HOAGIES

Photos by Katy St. Clair, Brandon Alms

The Legendary Status Sandwich from Mythical ‘Wich comes loaded with deli meat, sweet-hot peppers and vinaigrette. Discover more mouthwatering meals on p. 92.

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[ REVIEW ]

the stuff

OF LEGENDS We try the sandwiches from Mythical ‘Wich—a personality-packed spot in Branson owned by the crew behind Gettin’ Basted.

BY JOY ROBERTSON PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS

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Mythical ‘Wich’s dining room features bigfoot tracks leading your way through the shop.

ou never know what legendary creatures you’ll fine at Mythical meal in their bright, colorful atmosphere.

G

ive yourself plenty of time to discover the extensive menu at downtown Branson’s newest sandwich shop, Mythical ‘Wich.

The folks who brought us Gettin’ Basted and Downing Street Pour House have done it again, this time with a funky sandwich joint along Main Street, just steps from the Branson Landing. The menu is whimsical and imaginative, living up to their name.

My oldest daughter and I went to check out Mythical ‘Wich and opted for an array of items to get a feel for the place.

Ellen chose the Legendary Status, which featured ham, turkey, salami, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, sweet hot peppers and vinaigrette.

I took the clerk’s suggestion of the Wake & Steak with shaved ribeye grilled with garlic butter, onions and pickled peppers covered with provel cheese topped with two fried eggs.

I couldn’t resist adding a sandwich with a name like Recession Special to our order, which is a pile of thin sliced, grilled bologna with provel, mustard and traditional veggies topped with smashed up Zapp’s Voodoo kettle chips on sliced jalapeno cornbread.

Dude, you had me at jalapeno cornbread.

When the food arrived we knew we had our work cut out for us. Three baskets were chock full of sandwiches big enough for the heartiest appetite, all with a knife and fork at the ready. The Legendary Status was the most pick-up-and-eat style sandwich

The Legendary Status Sandwich, Wake and Steak Sandwich, Recession Special Sandwich, Pot O’ Gold Street Corn and the Nanna Puddin’ are a few of our favorite dishes from Mythical ‘Wich.

ich, but you’re sure to en oy your

of the three, chock full of meats, veggies and sliced provel on a soft-as-a-cloud sandwich roll. If you like a more traditional deli sandwich, you’ll like this.

My Wake & Steak was another matter altogether, easily filling the basket with the same sandwich roll, this time garlic-buttered with steak, peppers and melted provel peeking out from behind two fried eggs. A knife and fork is almost mandatory here. This breakfast-anytime sandwich was fluffy and savory, just the thing for a chilly day or a morning-after remedy.

The Recession Special drew me in immediately due to the grilled bologna. Those thin, crispy edges were making eyes at me, along with the smashedup kettle chips.

The toasty jalapeno cornbread was shaped like typical slices of bread but with a buttery kick that was straight-up delicious. I was told the soups were house-made, so I tried the Tomato Bisque. It was thick and delicious, more tomato-y than creamy, and came with a handful of parmesan crisps and a dash of Italian herbs thrown in, which was an unexpected bonus.

Next trip I’ll surely try the Pot O’ Gold, which is their take on elote made with roasted corn, cotija cheese, jalapeno and a lime/Cholula dressing. On this trip we did manage to leave just enough room for the Nana Puddin’, a creamy-dreamy concoction topped with fresh whipped cream, fresh banana slices and crushed Nilla Wafers.

The décor is colorful fun, filled with images of mythical characters from the front window to the back self-service drink area. Each table had a salt and pepper grinder, which I appreciated; not that the food needed seasoning necessarily, but I’m a sucker

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

for both the taste and texture of fresh ground seasonings. If I wished for anything, it was a real knife and fork with which to attack those monster sandwiches. By the way, they serve breakfast all day.

So whether you’re in the mood for a massive breakfast sandwich, biscuits and sausage gravy with fried egg and hot sauce (The White Walker) or French Toast with nut butter, jam and hot honey (the OK, Beth), you can experience these self-proclaimed ‘lore-worthy sandwiches’ any time of day.

The Nanna Puddin’ is the perfect sweet treat to end your meal.

MYTHICAL ‘WICH

113 E. Main St., Branson 417-544-0245, mythicalwich.com Open daily 9 a.m.–7 p.m.

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TRY THIS

[ YUM OF THE MONTH ]

THE AHI AVOCADO SALAD from Rock Food & Friends 4018 S Lone Pine Ave, Springfield

THE MOUTHFEEL

THE PROTEIN

Crispy wontons and a medley of fibrous vegetables, including cucumber, carrots and red bell peppers, offer a nice crunch against the greens.

Sashimi-grade ahi tuna paired with avocado slices keep it fresh and filling.

THE FLAVOR

Scallions, cilantro, pickled ginger and a wasabi vinaigrette make this salad a little spicy, tangy and peppery.

Photos by Brandon Alms, Tessa Cooper, Amy Ray-Hess

[ WORTH IT ]

Berry Delicious

P

astry chef Kyle Davis’ desserts are often a bit imaginative and playful, but make no mistake—he takes their creation very seriously.

The current entremet on the menu at The Order (305 E. Walnut St., Springfield) is a prime example.

This sweet treat features a corn cake with strawberry mousse shaped just like a petite strawberry, a fluffy layer of whipped cream and just the right amount of pickled strawberries. So it’s sweet but also a bit tangy.

An entremet is a layered, French-inspired dessert featuring mousse, and Davis first started experimenting with these confections during his time at the now-shuttered Progress.—Tessa Cooper

[ BITE SIZE REVIEW ]

fuel for

THE TRAIL At Howler Bike Park (3410 US-65, Walnut Shade , riders come for the trails but stay for the food. Visitors who’ve worked up an appetite love rewarding themselves with a filling meal at Growl Grill, the park’s on-site food truck. Dustin Fox runs the show in the kitchen, and he is one of those rare chefs who can take seemingly lowbrow types of food and make them highbrow. Take the Howler Burger, for example. This delicious concoction features two smash patties and bacon plus American and cheddar cheese on top of potato buns from Neighbor’s Mill Bakery & Caf . The grilled onion, alape o, shredded lettuce and pickles are the perfect topping combination, but it’s the Howler sauce that really makes the burger so addictive. Fox whips up this riff off fry sauce with chipotle adobos that offer a nice smokey spice. The menu changes seasonally, but this burger is a staple. Each entree comes with chips, but you won’t want to miss out on the fries. We suggest either upgrading your side or splitting the loaded cheese fries with your riding partner. Again, the toppings are 10/10 here, but it’s the toum, which is Lebanese garlic sauce, that makes it a stand-out dish. While it’s impressive what Fox manages to whip up in the pint-sized food truck kitchen, there are plans for a full-service restaurant in the works.

Between the food, on-site coffee shop, overnight accommodations and nearly a dozen trails to choose from, Howler Bike Park is certainly a destination.—Tessa Cooper 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

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TRY THIS

[ DRINK OF THE MONTH ]

PURPLE & PRETTY

T

here’s nary a drop of artificial coloring in the Purple Haze Latte from Urban Grounds Coffee + Plant Lab (5557 N. 21st St., Ozark). This drink actually gets its vibrant violet hue from something natural and a bit unexpected, which is housemade ube (pronounced ooh-bay) syrup. And for the inquiring minds out there, that’s purple yams. This unique addition isn’t just for show, but even if it was, we wouldn’t be mad because it’s practically a work of art. The ube-based syrup has a buttery vanilla flavor that’s also a little earthy, and the drink includes two shots of espresso and your milk of choice. We suggest ordering it iced because ‘tis the season.

—Tessa Cooper

3 QUESTIONS

with Sarah Kraber of Pino & Tinks

BY TESSA COOPER C atering requires a unique culinary skillset, and Sarah Kraber of Pino & Tinks has perfected the art. Her dishes add to the experience of a celebration; they are plated so beautifully that they are practically festive party decor themselves. Kraber uses fresh ingredients and a range of preparation techniques to create meals and appetizers that taste ust as amazing as they look. We sat down with her to chat about her favorite ingredients, popular dishes and where she loves going out to eat.

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417: What is the single dish that you’re most known for?

S.K.: My chicken parm. I use my spicy tomato oil on it, and it’s so wonderful because it has so many different uses. also sell a lot of bread, and when my close friends come over, they always want my Braciole.

417: When you’re too tired to cook, where do you like going out to eat?

S.K.: When [my family and I] lived in Springfield, we would go have wings at least once a week at Coyote’s Adobe Cafe. And we still absolutely love that and go about once a month. hen we’re home at the lake, we en oy going to El Lago Branson West. They have fabulous margaritas and the food is solid and consistent.

You can book an event with Pino & Tinks by sending her an email (pinoandtinks@gmail. com) or direct message on Instagram (@ pinoandtinks).

Photos by Katy St. Clair, Tessa Cooper

[ Q&A ]

417 Magazine: What are a few ingredients you always keep in your fridge and why?

Sarah Kraber: Chilis, fish sauce, eggs and fresh herbs. ou can ust do so much with chili oil.

You can add it to some pasta with a fresh herb, and you’ve got dinner. Fresh herbs add so much avor to a dish and look beautiful as a garnish Fish sauce ust adds a really nice umami and une pectedly nice salty punch And as for eggs, if you’ve got those, you have a whole meal.

Pride in Lawn Care Reliable, regular attention for a healthy lawn, all year long.

417-368-0591 spring-green.com

Locally owned and operated

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417

DINING

GUIDE  Restaurant Listings, 100  7 Good Things, 103

[ LISTINGS KEY ] $= nder $$ Mostly $$$ and up

M meeting space

serves alcohol

smoke free ☎ reservations

B serves breakfast L serves lunch D serves dinner

recommended wheelchair accessible

outdoor seating

WIFI free wifi K offers kids menu

V live music

The 417 Magazine Dining Guide is a select list of restaurants in southwest Missouri. mplicitly, the magazine’s editors recommend all these restaurants. The Dining Guide is not related to advertising, and 417 Magazine doesn’t accept freebies in e change for reviews or listings.

Listings are updated often they appear based on space availability. Restaurants that are written about in Dining Guide items such as restaurant reviews, restaurant update stories and Good Things are chosen by editors as a service to readers.

If you have a foodie story idea, news about a local restaurant, or a correction to one of our Dining Guide listings, we’re all ears.

Please send an email to our editorial team at yum@417mag.com.

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FINE DINING

ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA 1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd. Japanese. This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai offers e cellent nigiri and sashimi, as well as small plates and tapas. ou have to try the delicious tuna cigars or the hot rock dish that uses wagyu beef. For dessert, the matcha creme brulee is our favorite. Be sure to order from the sake menu. Order a sushi roll alongside some sake. $$–$$$ D ☎

AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING 3240 South Fremont Avenue, Springfield, 417-567-3463, avanzareitaliandining.com.

Northern Italian. Pasta is always a hit at Avanzare. eal dishes are top-notch, but you’ll have to pick the right night, as they’re only served once or twice a week. Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak and the pasta with seafood in a spicy tomato-based sauce. ndulge in the luscious chocolate torte for dessert. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. Sun., p.m. $$$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007.

Sicilian. The bucatini with panchetta, chili oil and basil is a must-try pasta dish. Get it with the arugula salad with pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. Also on the menu is pizza, wagyu steak and lots of e cellent entree options. The ever-changing specials always sound e tra-tasty, like the recent offering of shellfish arancini. Open Tues. Thu., p.m.

Fri. Sat., p.m. $$$ D M ☎ WIFI

CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR 1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8238383. Steak and seafood. The former Touch Restaurant & Oyster Bar retains some standby dishes like bacon-wrapped dates and chicken Bi an in its new iteration as Char Steakhouse & Oyster Bar owned by the same people , but offerings of 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. Open Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. midnight Sun., p.m. $$$ D WIFI M ☎

CHATEAU GRILLE 415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-2431777, chateauonthelake.com. Contemporary American. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Chateau Grille offers gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake. And you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. The restaurant focuses on upscale, seasonal cuisine, ying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award-winning menu. Open daily during the regular season open during weekends only during the off-season. $$$ B L D M ☎ WIFI K

CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL 815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com. Contemporary American.

This Joplin hot-spot serves some fantastic seafood, and we’ve en oyed everything we’ve tried there. The Chilean sea bass is a specialty.

Try some of the small plates, like portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. There are also some great entree salad options. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR 314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-4444, flamesteakhouse.com. American steakhouse.

The restaurant specializes in dry-aged steaks that are truly delicious. Don’t miss the lobster macaroni and cheese we’re serious you have to try this stuff . The desserts are always divine, and we can’t get enough of the appetizer menu. Head to Red Room downstairs for killer happy hour food and drink specials.

Don’t miss the burgers at happy hour Open for dinner Mon. Thu., p.m., Fri. 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 Ozark Mill at Finley Farms, The Garrison features a dark and moody speakeasy vibe, a fine dining menu and a beautiful riverside patio. Try the mini pot roast, the forest panzanella salad or the delightful rosemary pound cake. Be sure to order one of the delicious cocktails especially the refreshing Mill Pond that goes great alongside all the dishes we tried. Open eds.

Sat. p.m. $$$ D M ☎

GILARDI’S 820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-6400, gilardisonwalnut.com. Northern Italian. Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little talian restaurant that makes a wonderful date-night spot. Don’t miss the amazing meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce that are served over a bed of creamy goat cheese polenta.

And be sure to dine in the outdoor seating area when the weather allows. Open Mon. Sat., p.m. $$$ D WIFI M ☎

HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR 3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com. Japanese. The Oh My God roll and the Se and the City roll are trademarks here. f simple nigiri is your style, you’ll love the tuna sampler. Be sure to venture off the sushi menu and try some of the delectable entrees as well. Don’t miss the bibimbap or the fresh mango- alape o ahi tuna entree. f you love a spicy bite, make sure you try the seafood soup. Pair it with nigiri or one of the spot’s tasty maki rolls. Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m., p.m. midnight Sat., a.m. p.m., p.m. midnight Sun., a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M K ☎ V

DINING GUIDE

HARVEST RESTAURANT

OCEAN ZEN PACIFIC RIM RESTAURANT

8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville. Contemporary American. 417-830-3656. Dining at Harvest Restaurant is an e perience like none other in land. The owners, Craig and Tamara on Foerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper-seasonal, local cuisine. Although the menu is constantly in u , Craig is known for his mushroom risotto and scallop trio. Open Thu. Sat., p.m. Open Sunday for brunch, a.m. p.m. $$$ D M ☎

4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-889-9596, eatoceanzen.com. Asian fusion. Try Chilean sea bass or the macadamia nut chicken. e particularly love ordering the Hawaii Five-O sushi roll with seared rare tuna and a pineapple salsa, it’s a tasty combination of savory, sweet, spicy and refreshing. Don’t miss the delicious top-notch steaks that are on the menu here, too. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. bar closes at p.m. happy hour p.m. and last two hours of operation. $$–$$$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB 1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-886-5466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com. American steakhouse. e love the tasty steaks here. They are always prepared perfectly. The stuffed Peppadew peppers are a must-try appetizer trust us, you need to taste those things The peppers are stuffed with cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and drizzled with a balsamic glaze.

Open Sun., a.m. p.m. Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m.

Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M ☎ K

KAI 306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-832-0077, kaiafterdark.com. Contemporary Japanese and Korean.

This lounge-like restaurant in downtown Springfield has fantastic sushi. t has the same owners as Haruno, which is famous for their incredible rolls so you know it’ll be delicious Don’t miss the restaurant’s black cod or sea bass entrees with delicious wasabi risotto. There are some great cocktail and appetizer options here as well. Lunch Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m.

Dinner Mon. Thu., p.m. midnight Fri. Sat., p.m. a.m. $$–$$$ L D M ☎

LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3443, level2steakhouse. com. Steakhouse. This Branson restaurant specializes in steaks, but its gooey butter cake dessert is gaining a following. Try the Kansas City strip steak and the egg noodles with cheese. f you like to start your meal with greens, the Caesar salad is a must-try it comes topped with delicious fried anchovies. Open daily, a.m. p.m., p.m. $$$ B L D WIFI M K

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

Open Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri., p.m. Sat., p.m. $$$ D M ☎ WIFI K

THE ORDER at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-832-1515, theordersgf.com. New American. Step inside the andivort Hotel and turn left for a downtown-Springfield dining e perience not to be missed.

The atmosphere is trendy but rela ed while the food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from-scratch kitchen. Try E ecutive Chef Calvin Davis’s spin on cashew chicken or the market fish specials that change daily. Brunch is e cellent here too. Open for dinner Mon. 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 offers created and delicious options. Downstairs is the End of the Trail wine cellar with a wine tasting bar and whiskey room. Reservations are recommended.

Collared shirts are recommended after p.m. Open Tue. Sat., p.m. ine cellar and Buffalo Bar open later. Brunch served Sun., a.m. p.m. $$$ BD KM☎

BLACK DRAGON ROLL

RETRO METRO 2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-720-1708, eatretrometro.com. This throw-back concept brings back decades of old Metropolitan Grill favorites and quite a few brand-new avors too from owner Chef Tiny. The aptly named Retro Metro serves some of Metropolitan’s greatest hits, including ash-fried spinach and chicken spiedini. But there are original items on the menu as well, from Chef Tiny himself. During happy hour, come in fro wagyu sliders, crab cake sliders and more. Dishes are available via drive-thru, too.

Open Tues. Sat. p.m. $$$ D WIFI

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 sauteed in garlic butter and baked with Parmesan cheese.

Gluten-free pasta and pizza are available. The chicken parmigiano is a highlight definitely worth ordering.

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

RAINBOW ROLL

CAS AL D

G

NOW OFFERING KOREAN CUISINE!

HOURS: MONDAY–FRIDAY 10:30 A.M.–2 P.M., 4 –9 P.M. SATURDAY 10:30 A.M.–9 P.M.

65 TAPAS 3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-827-2777, tapas65.com. Spanish. Try a variety of small plates to share with your friends at this Spanish-style spot.

Dishes include things like burrata topped with sauteed mushrooms and marinated tomatoes, chargrilled oysters, charcuterie and lots more. There are larger entrees too, like paella, sea bass and tikka masala salmon. Reservations required on weekends. Open Tues. Sat. p.m. $$–$$$ D

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

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DINING GUIDE

ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER 1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-1234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs.com. American fare. 1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-1234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs. com. American fare. This is a great spot for a night of fun plus food in one building. The restaurant at Andy B’s Entertainment Center offers lane-side food service and a menu full of hearty, tasty fare like burgers, pizzas, pasta and more. Springfield open Sun. Thu., a.m. midnight Fri. Sat., a.m. Branson open Mon. Thu., noon p.m. Fri., noon p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m.$ L D M K

AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS 2144 E. Republic Road, Suite E120, Springfield, 417881-9736; aviarycafe.com. Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there’s so much more besides crepes.

There are also beautiful salads and delicifous entrees that have a little bit of French air. Be sure to try dishes infused with Lavender Falls avors, like the lavender honey and goat cheese appetizer that is served with crisp crostini and fresh berries. Open Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m. and p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. and p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m.$–$$ B L D ☎ K

BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL 3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-368-5919; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-732-5077; 701 N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-725-3777; bairsburgers.com. American. There are appetizers and burgers on the menu at Bair’s, plus plenty of non-burger sandwiches, great chicken wings and salads. e love the burger that is topped with ranch dressing and fried pickles. So indulgent ou can get other sammies too, like fried pork tenderloin, Philly cheesesteaks or triple-decker clubs stacked tall. For an appetizer, get fried green beans or spicy cheese curds. Hours vary by location. $ L D K

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

BIG EASY GRILL 3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040. Cajun.

The ambalaya is fantastic, and we like to order it e tra-spicy. The oyster po’boys are customer favorites, and the boudin Ca un sausage balls are not to be missed. Try mi -and-match dishes to create a meal full of your favorite Ca un avors you can order a side of red beans and rice with a po’boy, for e ample . Or you could ust keep it simple and dig into the peeland-eat shrimp. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D K

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BIGSHOTS GOLF

CAFE CUSCO

1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-427-3040, bigshotsgolf.com. American. Come for the golf but stay for the good eats. There are great burgers like the double smash burger with Hatch green chilis , pizza, wings and lots of shareable apps like the crispy red chili cauli ower. Be sure to stop by for brunch on the weekends. Open Mon. Thu. a.m p.m., Fri. a.m. midnight, Sat. a.m. midnight, Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ B L D

234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-868-8088, cafecusco.com. Peruvian. This menu is packed with fun and une pected dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the Andes Mountains. A few standouts the black bean quinoa burger with avocado spread, the Lomo Saltado, and a host of delicious entrees. Anything that includes the ceviche is a sure-bet. ou can get it as an appetizer, or as a taco filling. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m.

Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ L D M WIFI

BIG WHISKEY’S Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com. American.

Springfield’s go-to for buffalo chicken dip, burgers and the staple pub foods has locations spreading throughout the Midwest. Fans rave about the spin dip too a cheesy concoction with spinach and a little bit of heat. Don’t miss the ever-popular burgers, including the pretzel burger with horseradish aioli, bacon and cheddar. Hours vary by location. Ask about brunch service. $$ B L D

BISTRO 58 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-7731985, vcellars.com. Bistro fare. This restaurant is off the beaten path and offers a stellar selection of wine, a tasty lunch menu and a seasonal monthly dinner menu. ummy sandwiches fill the lunch menu, like the super-tasty Steph sandwich. Also be sure to check out the Friday night dinners. Open Tue. Sat., a.m p.m. Fri., p.m. $ L D WIFI

BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES 209 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-319-5905; 2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, 417-368-0227; 2420 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-351-3595; blaaacksheep. com. Burgers. This swanky but comfortable burger oint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield illage and on East Sunshine Street.

Chow down on the Good ogi two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and baaad sauce house-made Thousand sland dressing. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. midnight Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D M

BLACKSTONE GASTROPUB 1521 E. Broadway St., Joplin, 417-553-0665. Gastropub.

Damien Tiregol of Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill now has another Joplin eatery. Blackstone Gastropub 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. Keep an eye out for Blackstone’s super-creative daily specials.

Open eds. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m.

Mon. a.m. p.m. $ $ L D

BLUE HERON FARM & BAKERY 206 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-701-1130.

Farm-to-table. All of the freshly baked pastries and breads are amazing here. They do some creative things with pastry, from tender galettes filled with loads of lucious lemon curd to aky pot pies filled with savory meats and veggies. Many of the ingredients are from Blue Heron Farm and other local and regional producers. e love the sausage roll served with pickles and whole-grain mustard, and the almond croissant is oh-so-dreamy. This spot offers occasional baking classes, in case you want to learn the tricks of the trade. Open eds. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $ B L

CANYON GRILL RESTAURANT at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon. org. American. Located on the grounds of the sprawling, spectacular Dogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon Grill Restaurant oozes rustic elegance and boasts a menu inspired by its earthy surroundings. Try the bison burger made with bacon and caramelized onion topped with fire-roasted poblano peppers and pepper-ack cheese. Open daily, a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD M

CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE 601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800. Cafe fare. hat do you get when you combine a coffee shop, bar, cafe and liquor store Cherry Picker Package Fare. A small selection of sandwiches, soups and salads is served daily. e’re big fans of the To Brie or ot to Brie an Artisan Oven baguette topped with salted butter spread, thinly sliced ham, apricot preserves and a slice of brie. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m.

Fri. Sat., a.m. midnight. $ B L 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. Specializing in upscale comfort food, Civil Kitchen and Tap draws inspo from Southern and Midwestern staples. Some favorite dishes include salmon with fruit pico de gallo, crispy charred brussels sprouts, huge salads and truly indulgent and gigantic battered onion rings. 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, club609.com.

Casual fine dining. The menu is large at this Joplin mainstay, and it offers everything from sandwiches to delicious steaks. Don’t miss the pecan-encrusted chicken or grilled ahi tuna entrees and be sure to order them with a side of ash-fried spinach. They also have a killer happy hour. The kitchen is open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. bar is open till close. $$ L D K ☎

DERBY DELI 2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066.

Cafe fare. Located inside Brown Derby nternational ine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, salads, cheese plates and salami plates, and more. e love the Martin’s salad, topped with oven-roasted chicken, or the Local Goat salad. Don’t miss the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham, President’s butter and gruyere on a baguette. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. for lunch, Tue. Fri., a.m. p.m. for small plates Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

Experience the

Finest

Tru e-Herb Parmesan Popcorn from Alamo Drafthouse is a delicious twist on a classic, must-have movie snack.

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

1

e love the seasonal updates that show up on the menu at The Ozark Mill Restaurant at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark , and a recent favorite was the strawberry cobbler. t’s served in a cast iron skillet and is made with fresh strawberries and topped with house-made lemon-buttermilk ice cream.

2

e’re suckers for anything with a mountain of toppings, and the loaded fries from Georgia Mac’s 1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield don’t disappoint. They are topped with homemade cheese sauce, bacon, green onions and sour cream. Hot tip ou can sub the fries for tater tots.

3 Photo by Brandon Alms

Movie night calls for popcorn, and we’re big fans of the upgraded version at Alamo Drafthouse 4005 South Ave., Springfield . The Trufe Her Par esan Popcorn has plenty of butter and is topped with a Parmesan cheese, black tru e and herb seasoning.

4

ho said burgers and breakfast don’t go together ot Aviary Café 2144 E. Repub-

lic Road, Springfield , where they serve a super-tasty Breakfast Smash Burger. t’s topped with white cheddar, an egg, bacon and avocado with sriracha mayo.

5

Lately, Fusion Eatz 2825 Glenstone Ave., Springfield has been satisfying our cravings for ndian avors with quick-service speed.

Our favorite is the Paneer Curry Bowl, which features seasoned paneer cheese, curry sauce with a spicy kick, rice, masala onions and fresh paratha.

6

For a sweet treat after a long lake day, we like to order the Funky Sundae from The Funky Twig 13272 Highway 13, Kimberling City . t starts with a fresh bubble wa e and is topped with ice cream, powdered sugar, chocolate and caramel sauces and whipped cream.

7

And because you can’t have too many sweet treats, we are also crazy about the pistac io n from Urban Grounds 557 N. 21st St., Ozark . t’s nutty and not too sweet the stuff dreams are made of.

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

Hours Monday–Saturday: 4:30–11 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

417-501-1675 1110 E. Battlefield Rd., Springfield

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DINING GUIDE

DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT

FARMERS GASTROPUB

GEORGIA MAC’S

at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-3352777, bigcedar.com. American. Here you can en oy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. For an app, 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. $$–$$$ B L D WIFI K M ☎

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 . Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m.

Fri., a.m. p.m. Breakfast served Mon. Fri., a.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ B L D M ☎ WIFI K

1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-319-5770, georgiamacs.com. Southern sports bar. The food is comforting with a southern are at this south Springfield eatery. ou can find loaded burgers like the one topped with alape o bottle caps , fried catfish, country fried steak, loaded fries with tons of toppings, and lots more. The Georgia Hot Chicken sandwich packs a big avor with mild heat. Open Mon. Sat. a.m. a.m., Sun. a.m. midnight. $ $ L D

DOBYNS DINING ROOM 1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu. American. The smoked tomato soup is knock-your-socks-off delicious. College of the Ozarks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farm-to-table quality. There’s a fried green tomato caprese appetizer that uses pickled tomatoes and a house-made mozzarella cheese. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ B L D WIFI K M ☎

FIRE & ICE 2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-866-5253, oasisfireandice.com. Global cuisine. This spot located inside Ramada Oasis Hotel & Convention Center specializes in dry-aged steaks and certified Angus beef and has a delicious menu that changes with the seasons. Try the Fire & ce hiskey Burger. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

THE GROTTO 301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-886-9600 gogrotto.com. West Coast–style American. The menu is accessible to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. The super-indulgent warm blue cheese chips are a favorite appetizer. Customers like the burgers especially the burger topped with lots of tangy blue cheese . One of our favorite things to order is the grilled salmon sandwich with a side of the sweet-and-yummy sweet potato fries. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D K

DOWNING STREET POUR HOUSE

FUEL FRESH AMERICAN GRILL

HACKETT HOT WINGS

24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse. com. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour offers e cellent burgers. Must-try dishes include a giant Bavarian pretzel, queso-smothered tamales and blackened mahi mahi.

Don’t miss the wagyu burgers. Open in Hollister Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. Open in Springfield Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $– $ $ L D WIFI K

3405 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-1786, facebook.com/FuelFreshAmericanGrill. American. After you work up an appetite racing go-carts at Tracks Family Fun Park, head to Fuel to fuel up. They serve hearty fare like barbecue nachos, poutine, a couple of loaded burgers, entree salads and more. Don’t miss the smoked whole chicken wings with Black Ri e coffee rub. Open Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

520 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-625-1333, hacketthotwings.com. American. The wings at Hackett Hot ings are fantastic. There are hot wing avors ranging from tame barbecue sauce to super-fiery hot sauces that pack a huge punch . But we’re partial to the delicious hot and honey sauce and the tasty house dry rub.Try the sweet potato puffs, breaded cheese curds, fried dill pickles and more. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D K

Hours 5–9pm: Tues.–Thurs.

5–10pm: Friday Hours vary: Saturday 3–7pm: Sunday Closed: Mon. Happy hours every day!

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Never-ending summer vibes with beachy dishes, and elevated bar bites at a local bar and grill. Warning: The cocktails and atmosphere will be hard to leave!

1198 W St. Hwy NN, Ozark, MO 65721 417-771-9330 | volleyballbeachozark.com

MAG.COM

ours Monda : losed Tuesda –Frida : 11am–2:30pm 5pm–9pm Saturda : 11am–9pm Sunda : 11am– pm

Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned Thai food enthusiast, Everyday Thai invites you to discover Thailand’s diverse culinary heritage. Open six days a week, they are honored to provide the best Thai food in Southwest Missouri.

220 . attlefield d., Springfield 417-770-0147 | m ever da thai.com

DINING GUIDE

HOULIHAN’S

LA HABANA VIEJA

NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY

2431 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-862-7777; houlihans.com. American. The fish tacos and burgers are fantastic, and we love the enormous nachos appetizer along with the vast salad selection. Grab some friends and share a few of the small plates. hen the weather is nice, be sure to grab a table on the patio, where you can gather around a fire pit while you en oy your meal. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m.

Fri. Sat., a.m. midnight Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M WIFI K

220 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-771-5723, la-habana-vieja.com. Cuban. Find great mo itos and a menu full of Cuban fare at this Commercial Street eatery. Try the ropa vie a, Cuba’s national dish of beef brisket, rice and veggies. ou can also get an appetizer of yucca fries, or ceviche that’s served with plantain chips. For dessert, be sure to grab some of the tres leches cake. Open Mon. Sat. a.m. p.m. and p.m. $$–$$$ L D

1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417720-4162; neighborsmill.com. This full time bakery offers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches, soups and salads. Don’t miss the honey pecan chicken salad, which comes on Bronze honey wheat bread, or the Reuben, which comes on pumpernickel rye bread.

Grab a loaf of bread while you’re there the eighbor’s Best loaf makes truly top-notch avocado toastOpen Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L D K

HUEY MAGOO’S CHICKEN TENDERS

MACCHEESY’S

THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT

1920 E. Independence St., Springfield, 417-351-3084; 2202 S. Range Line Road, Joplin, 417-691-8256; maccheesys.com. There are varieties of loaded macaroni and cheese and types of grilled cheese sandwiches on the menu here, along with soups, salads and some over-the-top shakes that are piled high with tons of wild toppings. ou can also build your own mac and cheese creation, or order a side of soft and steamy hot garlic knots. Open daily a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D K

at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-2106644, finleyfarmsmo.com. nside the beautifully restored Ozark Mill, you can order upscale farm-to-table meals that are made with ingredients grown right at Finley Farms or produced in their on-site apiary. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters appetizer made with artichoke, sausage, mozzarella and served over a pickled pepper aioli. e also love the Chicken & Dumplins made with cornbread gnocchi and the simply delicious gem lettuce salad. Open daily a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D M K

3352 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-812-8020, hueymagoos.com. Chicken tenders. The region’s first Huey Magoo’s Chicken Tenders is located in Springfield near Sunshine Street and Highway . This spot offers chicken tenders both fried or grilled in platters, sandwiches, salads and wraps. f you get tenders, dip them in the Spicy Magoo’s homemade sauce. e like the Magoo’s Favorite Salad with greens, cranberries, walnuts, tomatoes and a not-too-sweet raspberry-walnut vinaigrette dressing. $–$$ L D K

HY EE 1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-8224; 2150 E. Sunshine St., Springfield; hy-vee.com. t’s all about variety when it comes to the freshly prepared food at Hy- ee, so it’s a great place to find something for every member of your family even the picky ones ou have a hibachi grill, a pizzeria, hearty comfort food, sushi, Chinese dishes and ahlburgers burgers. $–$$ B L D WIFI

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

PIER 28 PIZZA & GRILL 344 Nautical Circle, Kimberling City, 417-527-1580, pier28pizzagrill.com. American. Come for lakeside views and a menu filled with pizza, burgers, tacos and more. f you love fried pickles, get an order of the spicy pickle chips to share. And if you’re looking for something on the lighter side, the menu offers several tasty salad options. Keep an eye on their website for updated seasonal hours. $$ L D K

DINE IN — CARRY OUT — DRIVE THRU

Come see us at Garbo’s Pizzeria where St. ouis style meets Springfield tradition! ur handcrafted pi as, pastas, appeti ers and a ard inning salads are sure to make this spot, nestled in hesterfield illage, your favorite local hangout.

Hours 11am–9pm: Fri.–Sat. 11am– pm: ed.–Thurs., Sun.

2101 . hesterfield lvd., 101 417-883-9010 | garbospizzeria.com

CHINESE SPICY CHICKEN Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Triple Eight’s Chinese spicy chicken, harmonizing fiery peppers and jalapeños with a zesty citrus twist.

417-832-8889 | 1710 S. Kansas Expy, Springfield 417-732-9888 | 557 E. Elm St., Republic

OPEN 11am—9:30pm MAG.COM

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QUEEN CITY SOUL KITCHEN

ST. MICHAEL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE

1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-379-8614, facebook.com/QueenCitySoulKitchen. Soul food. The menu changes from week to week here, but the offerings are always delicious. Find comforting fare like meatloaf, fried chicken wings, smothered pork chops and more. Make sure you leave room for dessert because there are always classics like peach cobbler or bread pudding with rum sauce up for grabs. Open Thursday Sunday a.m. p.m.. $–$$ L D

301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315. American.

The burgers are top-notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken breast are a favorite try the one with spicy Ca un chicken yum .

Come hungry enough to order dessert because the cakes are stellar. Our favorite is the dreamy banana cake. Open Mon. ed., a.m. p.m. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D K ☎

RED ONION CAFÉ

621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417-866-7500, teabarandbites. com. Everything we’ve tasted at Tea Bar & Bites has been fantastic. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, aky crust. e love any of the menu items that have a Mediterranean air.

The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Occasional theme dinners.Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L D M ☎ V

204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe. com. American/Italian. The Tu edo Chicken is a customer favorite. Diners also love the bacon-wrapped shrimp, the blackened tuna sandwich or Dave’s fried chicken salad. Try the BLT&A. The A stands for avocado... yum There’s even a section of the menu with kteo-friendly options that are low-carb and gluten-free. Live entertainment every third Thursday.

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

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

runch Sat–Sun: 9am–2pm inner Mon–Sat: 5pm–10pm Sunday: 5pm–9pm rea ast Mon–Fri: 7am–10am

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VAN GOGH’S EETERIE 334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie. com. Indo-Dutch. Dutch pancakes, chicken witlof and other ndo-Dutch and Dutch-inspired cuisine populate the menu at this Commercial Street spot. e love the pancakes especially the Farm ear Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. For something packed with veggies, the Liza’s Stamppot entree is perfect. For something sweet, our favorite is the Starry ight pancake. Open Tue. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ B L D ☎

Feast on the freshest avors in the Ozarks at The Order. Our seasonal menu features a modern take on issouri cuisine sho casing locally sourced ingredients and crafted cocktails.

Be sure to plan ahead for complimentary valet ith dinner reservations.

305 . alnut St., Springfield 417- 51-5299 | theordersg .com MAG.COM

BARBEC E

BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ 2002 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com. Diners love the ribs and the burnt ends at this classic barbecue eatery. e can’t get enough of the killer smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. And don’t miss the alape o bottle caps. f you’re e tra hungry, get the baked potato that’s covered with ust about everything.Open daily, a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI K

CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE 3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-720-1113, citybutchersgf.com. Come early because this Te as-style barbecue spot, where the meat is smoked in small batches for optimal freshness, is known to sell out.

Killer brisket, pulled pork and other favorites are sold first-come, first-served with a few simple but delicious side dish options. f you’re in a sandwich mood, try the City Smokestack, piled high with brisket, pulled pork, pork belly and your choice of sausage. 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 Dinner is a signature dish, and it features tons of meat including ribs, brisket and hot links. e loved the smoked chicken salad for something that feels healthy and indulgent at the same time. And as for sides, you have to go with the crispy fried okra. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D ☎ K

Celebrate community at Georgia Mac’s, your go-to sports pub & grill. Enjoy homemade southern comfort foods and specialty drinks, creating the perfect backdrop for memorable moments. Visit georgiamacs.com.

Hours 11am–1:15am: Mon.–Sat. 11am–12am: Sun.

1440 E. Republic Road 417-319-5770 | georgiamacs.com

DINING GUIDE

GETTIN’ BASTED

WHOLE HOG CAFÉ

EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST PUB

3242 S. Stewart Ave., Springfield; 2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted. com. Come here for award-winning barbecue in all your favorite varieties brisket, ribs, pulled pork and more. The seven wagyu burgers on the menu are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong with homemade pimento cheese, barbecue nachos and more. e can’t get enough of the pork tacos appetizer. Open Sun. Thurs. a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m.. $–$$

224 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-868-0042; 2731 N. Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-720-4759 wholehogsgf.com. Customers love the pulled pork sandwich.

There’s a delicious sauce for every taste bud at this eatery we like the spicy ones, but the mustard base is delicious, too , and we love the e tra-indulgent potato salad it is among the best we’ve ever tried . Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D M ☎ WIFI K

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

Don’t miss the tacos, burritos, traditional breakfast fare and more. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L

LD K

HEA Y BAR B

UE O.

573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq. com. This spot specializes in Kansas City style barbecue. Among stellar ribs, brisket and more perfectly prepared meats, you can find une pected dishes with a barbecue spin nachos, salads, a burrito. The sandwiches are all packed with ingredients, liked the Hogwallop that has pull pork, hot link, pickled alape os, pepperd back, pepper- ack chese, sauteed onions and a special sauce. hew That’s a lot Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m.

Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M K

BREAKFAST

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

PAPPY’S PLACE

THE BRUNCHEONETTE

943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744. Be sure not to miss the pork spare ribs with Pappy’s barbecue sauce or the barbecue nachos at this long-running Springfield institution. 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 Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

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. Try the poutine, hand-cut fries topped with gravy, cheese and a poached egg. Open ed. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun., a.m. until supplies run out. $ B L

Hours Mon–Thurs: 11am–9:30pm Fri and Sat: 11am–10pm Sun: 11am–9pm

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

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. Gailey’s is known for breakfast, but the restaurant also has a tasty lunch menu that’s a tasty change of pace from the breakfast fare. Open Sun. Tues., a.m. p.m., ed. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L WIFI K

Beef Ramen Noodle Bowl

Discover Springfield’s only Ice Bar at Fire & Ice Restaurant. Indulge in seafood, Angus steaks, and more.

Witness culinary mastery in our open kitchen. Experience cool cuisine in a hot atmosphere!

1540 W. REPUBLIC ROAD 417-887-7500

2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield 417-522-7711 | oasisfireandice.com

ORDER ONLINE: LEONGSASIANDINER.COM

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JW’S KITCHEN

LEONG’S ASIAN DINER

CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE

2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997.

This brunch spot comes from the owners of Farmers Gastropub, Andy and Misty Hampshire. t features e cellently prepared favorites and some fun surprises. ou can get biscuits with chocolate gravy a southern American favorite or a full English breakfast black sausage included and everything in between. Open eds. Mon. a.m. p.m. $ $ B L WIFI

1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-887-7500.

The Leong family serves its original cashew chicken at this tasty eatery, among lots of other yummy stuff. The crab Rangoon are especially delicious here, and we like to dip them in the bold and spicy mustard sauce.

The egg rolls are a classic, made from scratch with a peanut butter air. The signature dishes are great, but be sure to keep an eye out for new items, as they change up their menu a couple times a year. Open Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D WIFI K

1900 W. Sunset St., Springfield, 417-881-7625, classicrockcoffee.com; 535 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-771-5143, classicrockcoffeedowntown.com. This coffee shop offers espresso drinks with rock n’ roll inspired names. Try the Sweet Emotion latte with chocolate and caramel and a ham and cheese puff pastry breakfast pocket to start your day. Open Mon. ed., a.m. p.m. Thu., a.m. p.m.

Fri., a.m. midnight Sat., a.m. midnight. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D V M WIFI

LUCY’S CHINESE FOOD

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

RISE 105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-691-6088, 417rise.com. This spot is the brainchild of the same people who own European Cafe. The large and varied menu is inventive and superbly e ecuted, with clever dishes like pavlova-inspired French toast, baklava-inspired Belgian wa ees, both sweet and savory rice pudding meals, nourishing grain bowls, breakfast sandwiches from classic to creative and so much more.

Open Mon.. Fri. a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m.. $ B L WIFI

SLEEPY OPOSSUM CAFE 1427 E. Cherry St., Springfield, 417-379-9401, danisflourpotbakery.com. Located inside The Royal, this darling spot serves creative, classic and always delicious breakfast fare. e are obsessed with their hashbrown quiches, and the homemade biscuits topped with everything seasoning are to die for. Open Tues. Fri. a.m. p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m., brunch the first Sunday of the month a.m. noon. $ B L WIFI

CH ESE

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

CHINESE CHEF 3029 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4770, facebook.com/chinesechefcampbell; 1731 S. Enterprise Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2433. Classic Springfieldstyle Chinese food is on the vast and very affordable menu at Chinese Chef. Owner Joe Fong has been serving Springfield for over years, and some of his customers’ favorite dishes include Kung Pao chicken, made-from-scratch cashew chicken, crab rangoon and egg rolls. The Campbell location offers a Sunday buffet, and both locations offer a drive-thru daily. Hours vary by location. $ L D WIFI K

Several 417-land locations, lucyschinesefood.com.

Don’t miss the cashew chicken combo special that gets you an entree, a side and fried rice for an incredible price. e like the sweet and sour chicken here.

But if you’d rather eat something mega-spicy than something fried, order the hot chicken. t’ll have you reaching for your water glass with every bite. e love the kids meals here, too. Hours vary by location and season. $ L D

DANCING MULE COFFEE COMPANY COFFEE SHOP FARE

ARCHITECT COFFEE 1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-771-5030, architectcoffeeco.com. This nstagram-chic coffee shop on Springfield’s south side offers a bright and cozy atmosphere with warm drinks and hearty food, to boot.

The breakfast burritos are stellar and so filling. e love the seasonal drinks that change every so often, especially when they offer some version of a refreshing espresso tonic. So good Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L M WIFI

BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR 217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-865-9911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-868-4157; bigmommascoffee.com. This spot offers coffee, espresso and blended frappes. But there is more on the menu than ust drinks. Be sure to try the super-delicious sandwiches that are served here, too. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D M WIFI

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 coffee stop is Republic’s place to be for a piping hot labbuccino, and their second location in Springfield serves all the same pup-inspired menu items. Try the Black Lab. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m.

Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L V WIFI

CORNER 21

CAFE CUBANO

1369 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-766-6630, corner21us.com. This restaurant might look tiny from the outside, but its menu offers a large variety of authentic Chinese dishes. ou’ll even find dishes that aren’t common on local Chinese menus, such as braised pork belly, ribeye and enoki mushrooms in a curry broth, crispy fried pumpkin, spicy Sichuan fish and so much more. Open Tues. Thurs. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $ L D

3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-7777, facebook.com/countrygirlsespresso. Aside from all of the delicious coffee drinks, the real must-try item here is the authentic Cuban sandwich, served pressed on Cuban bread. Cafe Cubano’s’ signature is its Cafe Con Leche with scalded milk. For breakfast, the pressed bacon and cheddar burritos are a favorite with their e tra-thick bacon. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K

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

ECHELON COFFEE 2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-374-2739, echeloncoffee.com. This sunny coffee shop with a drive-thru has e cellent espresso drinks, drip coffee, pour-over and more. The cortado is always well done.

And we love The Formation espresso with vanilla, cinnamon and honey . Don’t miss the breakfast and lunch fare too. There are e cellent biscuits and gravy on the weekends only, and options like smoothie bowls, breakfast burritos, sandwiches and salads every day of the week. Open Mon. Fri. a.m. p.m., Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m.. B L D WIFI

EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE 445 E. Commercial St., 417-720-1949, culturecstreet. com. This coffee roaster with a mission also serves some tasty fare in its Culture Cafe. n addition to carefully crafted cups of coffee, there are e cellent lunch items. Recently we’ve en oyed the chicken tikka naan’wich and the smoky chili. e love ordering the miso caramel latte too. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D M WIFI

GREENHOUSE COFFEE & AFFOGATO BAR 431 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, 417-763-8032. This bright and sunny spot has all your favorite classic espresso drinks, great seasonal options and one of the yummiest treats a variety of affogatos. sually an affogato is ust espresso and vanilla ice cream, but here you can get other avors too. On a recent seasonal menu, they were offering vanlla ice cream, sipping white chocolate, house-made lemon curd sauce and pie crust crumbles. ou choose the drink and ice cream avor, and they combine it for you. Open Tues.

Fri. a.m. p.m., Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ B L D

DINING GUIDE

KINGDOM COFFEE

THE SANDWICH SCENE

LUCKY CAT BOBA TEA & TAIYAKI

211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-3501234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf. com. The coffee menu features classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos, mochas and more. e love the classic cortado the most, and the not-toosweet and super-creamy iced matcha latte is truly delicious. Open daily, a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI

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 McDaniel Street. This spot slings some seriously good sammies. The Meatball sub is crazy good too, and you should keep an eye out for any of the get-them-while-you-can specials that are always creative and delish. Open a.m. p.m.

Monday Saturday. $ L D

3424 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-351-3136.

There is a hefty menu of bubble tea options we like the passionfruit mo ito bubble tea that comes with fresh lime and mint leaves plus sweet snacks like mitarashi dongo skewers, red bean filled mochi, and darling slices of cake. The taiyaki are fish-shaped wafe-like cakes with tasty fillings that come in a variety of avors like sweet red bean, utella, vanilla custard and more. Open Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ WIFI

MUDHOUSE COFFEE 323 South Ave. Suite B, Springfield, 417-832-1720, mudhousecoffee.com. The coffee is always fantastic here, at Springfield’s OG downtown coffee shop. Plus, Mudhouse also offers a wide variety of loose-leaf teas.

The muffins here are delicious make sure you try the one with berries it’s our favorite . Open Mon. 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 offers organic dishes with ingredients from local market vendors. Juices are organic and cold-pressed. The real draw here is the Me ican-Korean fusion menu, featuring gogi nachos, kimchi fried rice and street tacos. The gogi quesadilla with kimchi is our favorite. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI

URBAN GROUNDS COFFEE & PLANT LAB 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, urbangrounds417.com. This spot specializes in drinks made with locally roasted coffee. Try classics like lattes and cappuccinos, or opt for a avored options like salted caramel toffee or a botanical latte made with things like beetroot, turmeric and more. hen you’re hungry, munch on one of the loaded toasts, a grazing tray, a smoothie bowl and more. Open Mon. Fri. a.m. p.m., Sat. Sun. a.m. p.m. $ B L

THE WORKSHOP AT FINLEY FARMS 840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com. The menu includes classic coffee and tea offerings plus super-sized suped-up toasts the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious .

Don’t miss the delicious creamy chicken salad it’s e cellent. As for drinks, we love The orkshop Shake, a shaken iced latte with vanilla syrup, cinnamon and honey. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L WIFI

DEL S & SA D

CH SHOPS

J. PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI 1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-1148, queencitydeli.com. This spot serves up pasta, soups, salads and some super-delicious sandwiches. ou can’t go wrong with the pastrami sandwich that’s incredibly meaty piled high ust like they do it in ew ork City delis. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $LD

MYTHICAL ‘WICH 113 E. Main St., Branson, mythicalwich.com. This sandwich shop offers a large selection of bold lunch and breakfast sandwiches, like the Holy Hand Grenade topped with pastrami hash and a fried egg. There are also soups, salads and desserts like the banana pudding that we’re dying to try. Open daily a.m. p.m.. $BLD

THE SUB SHOP 1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-887-3804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8077. The Fighter Pilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, banana peppers, lettuce and sub sauce. Be sure to try the specials also known as the secret sandwiches they are always creative and delish. Hit an ATM on the way there, because The Sub Shop is cash only. Seminole Street location open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. est McDaniel Street location open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. $ L

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

SOCIETEA DESSERTS & S EETS

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings our staffers love the key lime pie and blackberry in the summer, and the apple pie and pumpkin pie in the fall . Try the Ozarks Turtle sundae, a classic concoction with caramel, hot fudge and toasty pecans. There are several sundae and concrete options, plus root beer oats and talian ice pops. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. midnight. $

BOX TURTLE CREAMERY 1458 E. Cherry St., Springfield. From Dani Hunnell, the owner of Sleepy Opossum Cafe, this cute little creamery in the Rountree neighborhood serves handmade scoops in avors ranging from familiar to adventurous. e loved the lemon-cranberry and the banana-honeycomb ice creams the most so far. ou can even get a si -scoop ice cream ight to try them all. Fun bonus t has a walk-up window. Open p.m. $

EUROPEAN CAFÉ 207 Park Central East, Springfield, 417-569-6702, 417europeancafe.com. Along with coffee drinks, this little bakery serves up lovely croissants, beautiful desserts, perfect pastries and more. Their macarons are to die for, and the pretty little mousse cakes are almost too lovely to eat. e love the quiche here as well. t pairs perfectly with the ever-changing seasonal coffee and tea drinks, which are always delicious and full of lovely ingredients. Open Mon. Thurs., a.m. p.m. Fri., 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 donuts, and they are available hours a day in downtown Springfield. A customer favorite is the super-delish maple-bacon bar, a huge, salty-sweet concoction that is oh-so-delish. Open hours. $ B L D WIFI

1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-4094, facebook.com/societea. Bubble tea is the name of the game at this authentic spot where the matcha milk tea and the matcha roll cake are both must-try offerings. hether you’re a bubble tea veteran or looking to try something new, this is your place. e love that you can customize the sweetness level of your drinks.

Our favorite is the fresh strawberry milk tea with crystal boba. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. 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 glazed blueberry and the oh-so-fresh chocolate cake donuts. Open daily, a.m. p.m. ational Avenue location closed Sunday Ozark location closed Monday. $ B

D ERS & GREAS SPOO S

BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND 1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291.

Billy Bob’s is a greasy-spoon institution that has long served delicious sweets and tasty American food on the strip in Branson. There are avors of fried pies here, cheeseburgers pro tip top them with grilled onions , foot-long hot dogs with chili and cheese and more. Open daily, a.m. p.m. $ L D

CASPER’S 937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield. This local favorite is getting settled into a new location on Glenstone Avenue that’s filled with bright colors and a kitschy vibe that’s both Casper’s-familiar and also brand new.

The spot serves over owing bowls of great chili and a few other yummy diner options like burgers and hot dogs . Don’t forget to order some luscious chili cheese fries while you’re there. Another yummy favorite ham and beans with cornbread when you can get it on special. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ B L D K MAG.COM

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DRUFF’S

RED’S GIANT HAMBURG 2301 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. A revival of the Route staple, this diner serves up as much nostalgia as it does classic burgers. Opt for the stacked high griddle burgers served with fries or onion rings. Check out the breakfast menu if you’re up early. Open daily, a.m. p.m. $ B L D K

THE SQUEEZE INN 404 RB Road, Stockton, 417-276-6302. Order the Squeeze with Cheese, a -pound griddle-cooked burger that’s smothered in so much shredded cheddar cheese that it over ows the patty and creates a cheese skirt of crunchy cheddar. t’s huge and so delicious Cash or checks only. Open Tues. a.m. p.m., eds. a.m. p.m., Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $ L D

INDIAN

INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL 2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill.com. Come to this yummy little spot on the Branson strip to indulge in some tasty ndian fare. e loved the karahi lamb and the mushroom aloo matar. Open daily, a.m. p.m., p.m. $$ L D

NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR 3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050.

Find all your favorite classic ndian dishes here the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are both e cellent along with some others you might not have seen around town before. Open eds. Mon. a.m. p.m. Thu. Sat. p.m. Sun., Mon., eds. p.m. $$ L D

TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT 1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573. ou can find all your ndian favorites here on the large menu. There is a variety of naan bread and it’s so, so soft and perfect , many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts. e are obsessed with the lamb rogan osh and the chicken alfrezi. 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 vegetable korma, chicken tikka masala and malai kofta are ust a few of our favorite dishes. f you’re new to ndian food, try the pre-set combo meals that feature a lot of different avors. Open Tue. Sun., a.m. p.m. open for dinner Tue. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. Sun., p.m. $ $$ L D M 110

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TAL A

331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-719-1719, yumdruffs.com. Druff’s brings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses, soups and creative sides. For a little heat, try the Good Doctor, made with cheddar, cream cheese, bacon and alape o, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a nutella and strawberry grilled sando it’s nuts. Druff’s also offers a brunch and breakfast menu. Open Tue. ed., a.m. p.m.

Thu. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D

MAG.COM

AVANZARE, please see listing p. 100

ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA, please see p. 100

BAMBINO’S CAFÉ

CRAFT SUSHI

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. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m.

Sun., noon p.m. $ L D WIFI K

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

BASILICO ITALIAN CAFE 306 Commercial St., Springfield, 417-873-9224, basilicoitaliancafe.com. Don’t miss the delicious tortellini 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, see p. 100 GILARDI’S, please see listing p. 100 THE HILL 600 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-920-8850, thehilldining.com. Come hungry to The Hill, an all-youcan-eat destination offering a wide variety of talian fare. Open for lunch Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Open for dinner Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri., p.m.

Sat., p.m. Sun., p.m. Brunch served Sat. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ $$ L D M WIFI ☎

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE, see listing p. 101 NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ 306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-831-1222, nonnascafe. net. Italian. The seafood lasagna is a must-try dish, and the spicy arrabbiata lasagna is crazy-good. Basically, if the dish has lasagna in its name, you know it’ll be good at onna’s. The Tuscan pappardelle ragu is e cellent, and the pesto linguini is a delight. onna’s also does a Sunday brunch with regular menu items from a.m.– p.m. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m.

Fri. Sat., a.m p.m. $$ L D K M ☎

PICCOLO 107 West Aldersgate Drive, Suites 1 and 2, Nixa, 417374-7291, eatpiccolo.com. Piccolo offers a range of piled-high pastas, pizzas, steak and chicken entrees.

Start things off with the talian achos fried wonton chips, homemade alfredo sauce and toppings . Do yourself a favor and leave room for dessert because you won’t want to miss the incredible cannolis. Open Tue. Thu., p.m. Fri., p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D WIFI ☎ M

SALVATORES FRESH RISTORANTE ITALIANO 1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com. The menu here is packed with handmade pastas that are freshly crafted every day. f you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them making the fresh pasta you can see it from the dining room. The menu also boasts everything from a fried artichokes appetizer to a Tuscan T-bone steak entree.

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

HARUNO, please see listing p. 100 HINODE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777.

Come to see the show at the hibachi grills. Hinode is known for wonderful hibachi meals with perfectly cooked proteins and all the e tras rice, stir fry noodles, veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. And don’t forget to try something from the sushi menu.

Open daily, a.m. p.m. Sun. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. $$ L D K M ☎

KAI, please see listing p. 101 KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL 640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225. The Karai Ramen with a avorful and spicy house-made broth is incredible, and we like to get it with pork and a seasoned soft-boiled egg added. For something lighter, the naked ramen with sesame noodles, spinach, wood ear mushrooms, bean sprouts, seaweed and sprinkled with lime is a highlight. Don’t miss the steamed buns filled with shredded pork. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Mon. Thu., p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. $ L D MITSU NEKO FUSION CUISINE AND SUSHI BAR 1819 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson 417-336-1819, mitsunekosushi.com. Mitsu eko has a wide menu variety, but it specializes in two things sushi rolls and salmon. The seared salmon is a customer favorite. Try the takoyaki octopus puffs appetizer, or the braised pork belly entree. Lunch Tue. Thu., a.m. p.m.

Dinner Tue. Sat., p.m. $$ L D WIFI M ☎

NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE 2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-881-7171, nakato.com. Performance-style hibachi dining is what akato is known for. And they are super-good at it A little entertainment plus a great meal. All of the sushi is top-notch here as well. For an appetizer, try the bacon-wrapped scallops, the agedashi tofu or the seafood tempura. Open Mon. Fri., p.m. Sat., p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m., p.m. $$ LD KM☎

NIJI SUSHI 3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417851-1707. n addition to a large variety of sushi rolls we love the Cherry Blossom Roll and the Spicy ummy Roll , this menu also boasts rainbow-bright cocktails and seven types of ramen. For dessert, try the uffy Japanese cheesecake. Open Sun. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $$ L D

DINING GUIDE

SAKURA

THAT LEBANESE PLACE

EL PARAISO MEXICAN KITCHEN

3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000.

There’s a solid sushi menu the Sam’s Roll never disappoints if you like a roll with a lot going on , and you can order a sushi donburi bo to really get some bang for your buck if you prefer to keep your sushi meals simple and refreshing. Open Tue. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ L D WIFI M ☎

338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677. The kibbeh is fantastic if you like herbaceous and satisfying eats, and any of the delicious and meaty kebabs is a great choice. e love the stuffed grape leaves appetizer, served with a delicious tahini dipping sauce.

There are plenty of options for diners with vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. Open Tue. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ $$ L D

610 W. College St., Springfield, 417-771-5641; 305 E. Chestnut St., Suite C, Strafford, 417-736-0019; elparaisokitchen.com. This spot is known for a great lineup of margaritas and all your favorite Me ican dishes. For an app, try the aming cheese or the ceviche. For an entree, try the pi a a la parrilla. Springfield open Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. midnight, Sun. a.m. p.m. Strafford open Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $$ L D

SUSHI VILLAGE

VASKEN’S DELI

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

3200 Gretna Road, Suite D, Branson, 417-334-9182, vaskensdeli.com. The gyros are fantastic here. Make sure you get them with traditional gyro meat, and don’t skip the tzatziki Everything’s better with tzatziki sauce, right e are nuts for the beef shawerma too.

Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m.

E tended summer hours. $ L D WIFI K

KOREA

ME CA

BAWI KOREAN BBQ

CABOS BONITOS GRILL & CANTINA

4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-886-2777, bawikbbq.com. Bawi Korean BB brings an authentic Korean dining e perience to Springfield, where you’ll pay a at fee of for an all-you-can-eat meal. ou cook the meat yourself on tabletop grills. Be sure to try their to-go lunch options too, including bowls filled with rice, noodles, veggies and the protein and sauce of your choice. Keep an eye out for Korean-style fried chicken, which is sometimes offered on special.

Open Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat, p.m. Sun., p.m. $$ D

406 South Ave., Springfield, 417-221-3490. Come to this downtown Springfield spot for all your Me ican favorites plus some fun and unique dishes like the fried avocado appetizer. t has beer-battered avocado halves filled with your choice of meat. Open Sun. a.m. p.m., Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ L D

GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT 1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093. This spot serves up delicious and authentic Korean food.

The beef bulgogi and dolsot bibimbap are best sellers here. e also love the fried dumplings and kimbop.

Try the tasty kimchi fried rice or spicy octopus stir fry. ou also get a variety of Korean side dishes alongside your meal.Open ed. Mon., a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI

☎

KORIYA 4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077.

This spot serves create-your-own bibimbap dishes, and you can choose between chicken, beef bulgogi, tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the apchae, made with slippery and sweet stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies it’s fun to eat and so satisfying. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

MED TERRA EA

GREEK BELLY 320 E. Walnut St., 417-597-3382, greekbelly.com. Try a tasty pork or chicken gyro topped with creamy tzatziki, tomatoes, onions and French fries on a soft pita. Our favorite, though, is the loukaniko wrap. t’s an orange-spiced pork sausage served in a pita with spicy feta dip, fresh veggies and French fries. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m.

Brunch served the second Sunday of each month, a.m. p.m. $ L D ☎ WIFI K

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

CASA BELLA MEXICAN CUISINE 4610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-771-5031; 300 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-885-9097. The menu is huge at Casa Bella, which has two Springfield locations. Try the tasty ceviche, any of the street tacos, or the spicy camarones a la diabla. Open Sun. a.m. p.m., Mon. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ L D

CATRINA’S MODERN MEXICAN 2925 Battlefield Road, Suite 105, Springfield, 417350-1006, catrinascantina.com. This spot serves authentic shareable dishes and full entrees. Look for hand-crushed guacamole that can be loaded up with chicharron. The grilled plaintains are a treat Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m., Sun., noon p.m. $$ L D

CESAR’S OLD MEXICO 2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 17-881-8252. ndulge in authentic Me ican food at incredibly reasonable prices. e love the birria taco, which is filled with shredded beef. Don’t miss the Salvadorian pupusas stuffed with beans and cheese they are delightful. The carnitas torta is also e cellent. t’s huge and is stuffed with savory carnitas, topped with melted cheese, tomatoes, lettuce and mayo and then sandwiched between a pillowy bun. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

IGUANA ROJA 107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net. There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery located on the square in Ozark. Don’t miss the one made with alape os it has a kick that’s so much fun to drink. The chips are e cellent here, with a yummy seasoning sprinkled on top of every one. Open Tue. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D 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 offers a huge range of Me ican dishes including fish tacos, which are e cellent. Battered and fried fish is topped with fresh pic de gallo, cabbage and a creamy chipotle sauce and then served with Me ican white rice.

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

MEXICAN VILLA Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net. This spot is a favorite among longtime Springfield locals, and it is known for its sweet sauce served with tortilla chips.

Also popular is the Sancho Enchilada Style a huge burrito that is completely swimming in red enchilada sauce. Kids love the chicken fingers, and you can even purchase the sweet salsa in a ar to go. Hours vary by location. $ L D K

PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-890-1212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com. Diners love the pollo abovado, an -ounce chicken breast that’s grilled and topped with homemade chorizo, white queso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ 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 Me ican soups, handmade-to-order our tortillas, quesabirria tacos, massive quesadillas, fa ita baked potatoes and more. e love the tacos especiales. Open Mon. am. p.m., eds. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D K

TEAM TACO 1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf.com. Come for avor-packed tacos, nachos and rice bowls. e’re fans of the Globetrotter pork belly taco and the tequila- and mezcal-based cocktails that pair so well with all those tasty tacos with their big avors. Open Mon. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D MAG.COM

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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 Fu u made with super- avorful marinated tofu or the Fruity Piggles with uicy pork and fig am for a salty-sweet combination. 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 Me ican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a Me ican soda, a traditional Me ican soup or a tamale when you visit. Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays and Tamale Thursdays, where the dishes are only a dollar. Open Tue. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ B L D

lent ew ork style, eapolitan-style and Detroitstyle pizza at Carmine’s. e love eapolitan the best, and the La Rughetta topping combo mozzarella, prosciutto, grape tomatoes, shaved Parmesan and arugula is our favorite. Don’t miss the calzones, pasta dishes, and gelato while you are there. Open Tues. Thu. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$ L D

GARBO’S PIZZERIA 2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-883-9010, garbospizzeria.com. f you love a loaded St. Louis style pizza, try the toppings-packed Grandiose. Or try the Bavarian pizza for something a little different it is topped with Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. Customers are big fans of the Garbo’s house salad and its tasty homemade dressing. Open ed., Thu., Sun. am. p.m.

Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D M

GODFATHER’S PIZZA PA

AS A

OCEAN ZEN, please see listing on p. 101 NOODLE 21 2001 State Highway 248, Suites 1 & 2, Branson. Here you’ll find dishes from Korean, Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisines, including a menu of freshly made sushi rolls. Try the hot stone bibimbap, pho and ramen soups, or the teriyaki bowls. Pop into Dessert ne t door for coffee drinks and bingsu desserts chipped ice topped with a variety of sweets like fruit, brownies, mochi, sweet red bean and more.

Open daily a.m. p.m., p.m. $–$$ L D

PIZZA

ARRIS’ PIZZA

THE BIG SLICE 1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com. ou can get big ew ork style brick oven pizza by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer, but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pizza. e love the creamy spinach pizza too, when we’re in the mood for a white pie. The gigantic pepperonis are a wonderful topping too. They are the same pepperonis used in the addictively good pepperoni pinwheels.

Open daily, a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

IRE PI

A

524 South Joplin Avenue, Joplin, 417-691-8523, carmineswoodfiredpizza.com. ou can find truly e cel112

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HOOK & LADDER PIZZA CO. 26 Downing St., Hollister, 417-336-4665, hookandladderpizza.com. f you find yourself in Hollister and craving some pizza, stop at Hook & Ladder Pizza Co. This spot serves all your pizzeria favorites, from toasted ravioli to sub sandwiches. The specialty pizzas look great, like the alfredo or the chicken bacon ranch. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ L D ☎

IMO’S PIZZA

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

ARMINE S WOO

1026 W. Main St., Branson, 417-332-1001, godfatherspizza.com. This locally owned outpost serves an unbeatable pizza bar, salad bar, dessert bar and chicken bar serving the hard-to-find Broasted chicken chicken which is pressure-fried to uicy perfection served with all the classic sides. Of course, if pizza is on the mind, this spot has every avor and topping imaginable. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D M K

MAG.COM

600 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-862-1222; 636 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-886-4667; imospizza.com. A true St. Louis style original, mo’s serves pizza on cracker-thin crust with lots of provel cheese. e like the tasty Delu e pizza. 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.

Maso Pizza Bar is owned by icola Gilardi and located ust a few door down from his other restaurant, icola’s Ristorante. And 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-friendly Monica Healthy pies. The menu also spans salads, panini, pasta, soups and more.

Open Mon. Sat., p.m. close. $$ D WIFI

MCSALTY’S PIZZA CAFÉ 1550 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-4324.

A mainstay in Springfield, McSalty’s serves delicious pizza 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 sandwiches. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. 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 pizza oint a family-friendly atmosphere, hearty talian food and e cellent Chicagostyle pizza. They make all of the pizza dough from scratch. For a hearty taste, dig in to the supreme pizza, with homemade sausage, pepperoni and lots of veggies. Open Mon. Thurs., a.m. p.m. Fri. 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 Cholula pie topped with a mi ture of red sauce and olive oil, grilled chicken marinated in Cholula sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, red onions, cilantro. Also, be sure you try the meatballs. e really like the salads here as well. Open Mon. ed., a.m. p.m.

Thu. Sat., a.m. a.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $–$$ LD

THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB 2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-368-0277. ith a menu full of pizza, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pub fare and a killer beer selection, there’s something to please everyone. e love to build our own pizza with alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. Be sure to order the brussels sprouts appetizer they are ash fried and crispy, served with crispy potatoes, lardons, goat cheese and a balsamic reduction drizzle. Try the carrot cake for dessert. Restaurant open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. pub open later. $ $ L D M WIFI K

PIZZA HOUSE 312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-881-4073.

This restaurant has been a tradition in Springfield for more than years, and the pizza 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 favorite thing there any pizza that includes bacon. Open Tue. Thu., a.m. p.m.

Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI

ROCCO’S PIZZA & SUBS Multiple 417-land locations; roccospizzaandsubs. com. This talian eatery specializes in ew ork style pizza that has anybody who’s been to the east coast swooning. t’s legit. Also on the menu are hot subs, like meatball or eggplant Parmesan, plus salads, calzones and a handful of pasta entrees. $–$$ LD

P BS, LO

GES & BARS

ANDY B’S TIKI BAR 433 Promenade Way, Branson, 417-213-8631, bransontikibar.com. Big news for lovers of island-style bevs and casual hangout spots Andy B’s Tiki Bar has opened on Branson Landing, and it’s an e tension of Springfield’s Andy B’s Bowl Social. Andy B’s Tiki Bar has a view of Lake Taneycomo, where guests

DINING GUIDE can order tiki drinks, beer and other drinks. e’re eying the Pin Killer, the bar’s take on a painkiller.

Open Mon. Sat. noon p.m., Sun. a.m. p.m. $

BRICKTOWN BREWERY 2040 E. Independence St., 417-887-0100. This brewpub 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. This spot is also known for its cauli ower pizza crust that is super-delish and perfect for anybody trying to avoid wheat f you want to watch a game, there are tons of T s. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m.

Fri., a.m. midnight Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ WIFI LD

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

CELLAR+PLATE 2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-368-1739, cellarandplate.wine. At Cellar Plate you can get e ceptional wine and tasty food in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Customers love the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. Don’t miss the Cellar Board with meats, cheeses and fruits. And as you can probably guess from the name, Cellar Plate has a great wine menu. Open Tues. eds. p.m., Thurs. Sat. p.m. $$ D

CLEAR LOUNGE At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433. Just across the street from Branson Landing at the Hilton Branson Convention Center is Clear Lounge, a great place to grab a cocktail with friends. This spot is home to tasty food, good music and 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 buffalo to une pected tandoori spice . There are also tons of apps, sammies and entrees. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. midnight, kitchen until p.m. Fri., 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 pizza. Pizzas are thin crust and popular. Open Mon. 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 Ca un burger it’s big, hearty and always delicious. Plus, we can’t get enough of the fries and freshly made potato chip. Order them with a side of the spicy ranch dressing for dipping.

The chicken wraps are another longtime customer favorite at Galloway Station, and there’s a reason for it. t’s a classic. Kitchen open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m $ L D K

HARRY’S COCKTAIL LOUNGE & BAR at Big Cedar Lodge, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-339-5200, bigcedar.com/dining. This chic cocktail spot is located downstairs at the orman House on the Big Cedar Lodge property. t’s a great place to stop by for a drink they have e cellent cocktails and a great wine and whiskey selection , and they also offer a rotating menu of small plates and appetizers. e loved the short rib sliders and the strawberry-infused Paper Plane cocktail. Tuesday Thursday p.m., Friday and Saturday p.m. $–$$ L D K

THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB 137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-425-5162, thegoldengirl.com. This rum bar on the southwest corner of Park Central Square with a great people-watching patio space serves up handcrafted cocktails and a made-from-scratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. Try the Thai sticky wings for an unusual twist on a bar staple. Be sure to try the tacos, ramen and artisan pizzas. The pizza specials always come topped with creative ingredients for a serioulsy delicious and shareable pie. As for drinks, everything on the menu is reliable well-done. Our favorite Mr Guava Lava, which is both fruity and spicy. Open Tue. Sat., p.m. a.m. $ L D WIFI

p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. bar close daily at p.m. $$ B L D WIFI K M V

SWEET BOY’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR 310 South Ave., Springfield, 417-719-4224, sweetboysbar.com. Come for pinball, a laid-back atmosphere and a small but very well done cocktail list.

For something more like dessert, try the HellBoy, a frozen rish coffee with a Fat 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 Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. or later Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. or later Branson est open Tue. Thu., a.m. p.m. or later Fri. 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. Don’t miss the ham and cheese sandwiches, another customer favorite. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. a.m. Sun., a.m. midnight kitchen open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI

KM

SEAFOOD & F SH

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

ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT

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

Call for directions to the ranch in Rockbridge; 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com.

This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that specializes in all things trout. The super-fresh fish dishes are made with trout that are caught on the property. e love the trio appetizer, which comes with trout salad, smoked trout and a trout dip that is so craveable For an entree, try the blackened trout dish. There’s also an on-site bar, The Grist Mill located in a historic former riverside mill.Open daily a.m. p.m. $ B L D WIFI K M ☎

THE ROYAL

VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY

LINDBERG’S TAVERN

V

1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, 417-3513029, theroyalmusichall.com. This tiny and beautiful spot serves well-crafted cocktails, bottled cocktails and finger foods like warm olives or rosemary and bitters glazed nuts. Be sure to visit when there is live music the intimate setting makes for a great e perience with some good food and snacks to enoy while you listen. Open Tues. Thurs. p.m.

Fri. Sat. p.m. midnight. $

SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY 305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-832-8277, springfieldbrewingco.com. Try the fish and chips paired with the tasty local beers that are brewed on-site. Also delicious are the burgers and the mac and cheese. Live music. Tue. Sun. kitchen open Sun., a.m. p.m Mon. Fri., a.m.

260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-851-1768; rooftopvantage.com. This rooftop bar at Hotel andivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and even offers dining igloos in the winter so you can en oy the scene all year long. The cocktails are refreshingly creative and classically well-done, and the menu of shareables and snacks bring the concept of bar food up several notches with items like the pork rillette tartine. Make sure you try something from the super-fresh, beautifully prepared raw bar. The pickled shrimp and scallop ceviche are two of our faves. Open Tues. eds. p.m. midnight, Thurs. Sat. p.m. a.m. $$

WHITE RIVER FISH HOUSE 5 Bass Pro Drive, Branson, 417-243-5100, whiterivMAG.COM

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DINING GUIDE erfishhouse.com. The freshwater fish is great, especially the almond-crusted trout or cornmeal-fried catfish. Try the salt and pepper calamari for an appetizer, or dig into the seasonal smoked fish dip. ou can also find non-fish dishes like burgers, fried chicken an barbecue ribs on the menu too. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $$ LD KM

STEAK

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

FLAME STEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 100 JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 101 LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 101 OUTBACK STEAK & OYSTER BAR 1914 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-6306, outbackbranson.com. There are plenty of standout dishes at this Australian-themed steakhouse and oyster bar. Outback serves hand-cut, aged steaks using Certified Hereford Beef raised locally. Open daily at a.m. Closing time varies seasonally. $$ L D WIFI K

TEA ROOMS

BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM 1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8665533, bethsbakeshoppe.com. Try a chicken salad sandwich served on cinnamon raisin bread. And we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette, and the gigantic couscous salad loaded with fresh veggies and Feta. Tea room is open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m. bakery open a.m. p.m. $ L KM

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

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

RED OAK STEAKHOUSE Downstream Casino Resort, 69300 E. Nee Road, Quapaw, Oklahoma, 1-888-396-7876, downstreamcasino.com. Dry-aged prime steaks are served in this restaurant’s fine-dining atmosphere. The sides are delicious too, with options like garlic potato puree and tru e creamed corn. Be sure to try the charcuterie board. Open Sun. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. $$ D ☎

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

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. f you’re in the mood for southern comfort food, they also have country fried steak. Open Sun. Thu. a.m. p.m., Fri. Sat. a.m. p.m. $$–$$$ L D ☎

WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE 1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com. Come to Joplin’s ilder’s Steakhouse to find steaks in all sizes and varieties, all of which are certified black Angus beef and free of hormones and antibiotics. The restaurant’s menu also has a variety of other items like seafood and chicken.

Open Mon. Thu., p.m. Fri. Sat., p.m. $$$ D ☎ 114

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THAI

EVERYDAY THAI 220 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-770-0147, myeverydaythai.com. This spot serves consistently delicious Thai dishes. Some of our favorites are the tom kha gai soup, the comforting yellow curry with chicken and the mango sticky rice dessert. Open Tues. Fri. a.m. p.m. and p.m. Sat. a.m. p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m. $–$$ L D

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 delicious Thai tastes in a cozy atmosphere with a shady patio out back. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig into the entrees with an order of delicious curry noodles or a spicy curry option.

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

THAI THAI CUISINE 1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com. Thai Thai Cuisine offers really great Thai food and a sweet staff. The panang curry is delicious, and it’s served on a little bed of fresh spinach. Open Mon. Sat., a.m. p.m., p.m. Sun. a.m. p.m., p.m. $–$$ L D K

THAI EXPRESS 2113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-865-0101, 417thaiexpress.com. hen you visit this friendly spot, don’t miss the Magic oodle, mango curry 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 Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri., a.m. p.m. Sat., a.m. p.m. $ L D

THAILAND STATION 1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-350-1001, thailandstation.net. Find all your favorites a variety of curries, stir fried noodle dishes and soups plus some surprises like crispy duck and stir-fried pork belly. 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 Mon. 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 basil sauce is another fan fave. Don’t forget about the Thairito, a dish that’s unique to Tong’s. Full bar. Open Mon. Fri., a.m. p.m. Mon. Sat., p.m. $–$$ L D WIFI ☎

THE WHEELHOUSE 1845 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-430-0400, wheelhousefood.com. The pineapple fried rice is a fan favorite at this Thai-Me ican fusion spot, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. e always go for the kimchi-falafel tacos.

They are bursting with great tastes and pack some seriously spicy heat thanks to the homemade kimchi. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun, a.m. p.m. $ B L D V

ET AMESE

BAMBU 1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-9881.

The pho is a specialty here. ou can add spice, herbs, alape os and sprouts to customize it. Our favorite se all of the herbs, a couple of alape os and a squirt of Sriracha. Don’t miss the refreshing bun bowls too The one made with lemongrass beef is a avor bomb. The pineapple chicken stir fry entree is another customer favorite. Open Mon. Thu., a.m. p.m. Fri. Sat., a.m. p.m. Sun., a.m. p.m. $ L D WIFI K ☎

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, a variety of bahn mi sandwiches and more. The chicken fried rice is e tra crispy, and the chicken pho is ust as tasty as the classic beef variety here. e love the fresh spring rolls too. Try the spicy beef noodle soup. Open Mon. 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. Come to this spot to indulge in fresh spring rolls, vermacelli noodles, and big helpings of pho with lots of fresh veggies on the side. ou can also order boba tea in several avors with toppings like tapioca pearls, coffee elly, egg pudding, popping boba and more.

Open Mon. Sat. a.m. p.m.. $ L D WIFI

PROMOTION

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

y a D y a W d e t i n U

SEE YOU ON JUNE 13, 2024 In 2024, more than 40 nonprofit agencies are welcoming teams of willing workers to build, clean, landscape, paint and pack.

That’s more than 1,000 people coming together for useful fun!

The largest one-day volunteer event in Southwest Missouri is back for its 32nd year. Thanks to everyone helping build a brighter future together!

417.863.7700

uwozarks.org/day-of-caring 320 N. Jefferson Ave. | Springfield 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

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[ PEOPLE PICS ]

A NIGHT WITH THE STARS The annual Night with the Stars event celebrated the patients, survivors and caregivers of the colorectal cancer community.

Fight CRC board members shared inspiring stories of what the home office in Springfield has accomplished in the area.

Andrew Wortmann, Tammy Inman, JJ Singleton

Anjee Davis, Alison McQueary

Kellee Schmitt, Heather Lueck

Desiree Ruiters, Traci Bryan, Kim Hart

Ryan Popp, Jessie Gilmore

Eva Oshita, Lily Quiko & Dr. Ed

Paula Black, Michell Baker, Eric Hausmann

Rachel & Greg Lee

Date October 27 Benefiting Organization Fight Colorectal Cancer Location The Hammons Tower

Sponsors 417 Magazine, Atrium Hospitality, JMARK, KPM CPA’s & Advisors, Rob & Stacey Expect More Real Estate, Taiho Oncology

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Photos by Ryan Kowalski

Attire Disco-Wear

[ PEOPLE PICS ]

MAKING STRIDES Alyea Bryner, Jody Williams, Dale Williams, Robby Williams

Hailey Bluto, Gemma Bluto

Kailee Craig, Samantha Gardner

Jay Scott, Emilee Goddard, River Bowman, Jodi Bowman

This family-friendly, noncompetitive 5K walk is the nation’s largest network of breast cancer walk events.

The 2024 Making Strides of Southwest Missouri Walk had 400 people attend with 90 breast cancer survivors in attendance and raised over $130,000 for research and patient services.

Date October 28 Benefiting Organization American Cancer Society Location Hammons Field

Photos by Krisitin Knapton

Attire PInk casual

Nancy Johnson, Leigh Stewardson, Pamela Hailey, Adrianna Moore

Madison Rear, Jenna Carter

Tammy Dixon, Tara Benson

Robin Hill, Pat Schaffitzel, Jennifer Beuerlein, Jennifer Cantrell

Sponsors 417 Magazine, Branson IMAX, CHASE, CoxHealth, Freedom Bank, Greenlawn Funeral, Mercy, Penmac, Price Cutter, Royal Barbell, State Farm, Urban Grounds

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[ PEOPLE PICS ]

EMERALD EVENING The 30th Annual Emerald Evening Tuxes and Tiaras presented by Thompson Sales Company raised funds for Springfield Catholic Schools.

Chris & Cynthia Means

Colin & Linda McAllister, Mary & Chris Bozarth

Karen Braun, Nia Howard, Lauren Joslyn

Sarah & John Walraven

Robert & Ronnie Bell, Lyn & Tony Foster

Rachel & Tony Hurt

Melody & Dan Darnold

Tim & Paula Dougherty, Jennifer & Eric Lankford

Date February 24 Benefiting Organization Springfield Catholic Schools Location Oasis Hotel & Convention Center Attire Formal

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Photos by Kristin Knapton

Sponsors 417 Magazine, Achieve Private Wealth, Beshore Family, Brookline Doorworks, Danastasio Family, Dougherty Family & Friends, Erlen Group, Great Southern Bank, Griesemer Family, Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, Hagale Family, Hopper Family, Jeff Layman, The Larson Group, McLean Family, Mercy, O’Reilly Auto Parts, O’Reilly Family, O’Sullivan Family, Prime Inc., Rapid Roberts, Scholz Family, Strange Family, Thompson Sales

[ PEOPLE PICS ]

4C SERTOMA 417 WHISKEY FESTIVAL Bill O’Dell, Amanda Reed, Missy Prinkman, Jeff Dennis

Melinda Baker, Marc Backes

4C Sertoma hosted hundreds of whiskey enthusiasts as they talked one-on-one with master distillers on March 2. Finley Farms set the scene for this year’s event benefiting 4C Sertoma.

Date March 2 Benefiting Organization 4C Sertoma Location Finley Farms

Nicolas & Angela Franklin

Chad Oyer, Ken Doolittle, Hannah Arnette

Attire Semi-formal

Photos by Joshua Beecher

Sponsors 417 Magazine, Big Whiskey’s, Bigpxl, Innovative Sound, M&G Signs, Mid-Missouri Bank, Whiskey Tangos

Josiah Duda, Perla Mohler, Jason Mohler

Rick Craine, Erlyn Lucas

Tosha Hannon, Teresa Gale

Drew Owen, Mikayla Angeli, Katy Rawling, Rick Monsovillo 417MAG.COM • 417 MAGAZINE

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YOUR BEST SHOT

Just Wing It PHOTO BY KRISTIN SHARP PHOTOGRAPHY | @MRS.KRISTINSHARP Springfield photographer Kristin Sharp captured this image of a yellow-crowned night heron along a Springfield bike trail. These birds like to perch quietly on stumps and tree branches, often over water. Although also active in the daytime, night herons get their name from their habit of foraging primarily in the evening.

WANT TO SEE YOUR IMAGE HERE? Submit your best shot online at 417mag.com/submit-your-photo

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Family,

Same

Trust.

Providing Service You Can Trust Since 1980.

Book online at ricksautomotive.com 417-887-2225 | 2121 S. Campbell Ave. One block south of Bass Pro Shops