417 Magazine | Dining Day Trips | May 2023

ROOFTOP VIBES

We try the worldly fine dining at Traza

CITY HIGHLIGHT

18 reasons to fall in love with Nixa

4 SMALL- TOWN RESTAURANTS THAT ARE WORTH THE DRIVE

FOR THE SUCCESS OF YOUR

FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE REGION.

KATIE POLLOCK ESTES Editorial Director editor@417mag.com

LUCIE AMBERG Biz 417 Editor lucie@417mag.com

JAMIE THOMAS Digital Editor jthomas@417mag.com

JO JOLLIFF Research Editor jo@417mag.com

EDITORIAL INTERNS Michelle Lewis, Adesyn Shelton, Courtney Skornia

SARAH PATTON Creative Director sarah@417mag.com

JORDAN DYKSTRA Art Director jordan@417mag.com

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

LEAH STIEFERMANN Photographer & Designer lstiefermann@417mag.com

GRACE CHIPLEY Editorial Designer grace@417mag.com

EDITORIAL DESIGN INTERN Acacia Boerboom

CONTRIBUTORS

Josh Beecher, Mary Ellen Chiles, Tessa Cooper, Fox Run Art | Eve Nagode, Insight Design Architects LLC, Ricky Hernandez, Kristin Knapton, Mike Kootz, Todd Reynolds, Joy Robertson, Jeff Rose, Chuck Travers, Kate Whitney

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

BERNADETTE PRY Administrative Assistant bernadette@417mag.com

J.J. MASSEY Finance Manager accounting@417mag.com

KAITLYN MESSINA Finance Assistant kaitlyn@417mag.com

JAMI WIGHTMAN Senior Account Executive jami@417mag.com

JANELLE HAIK Senior Account Executive janelle@417mag.com

MARIYA SERYKH Marketing Coordinator mariya@417mag.com

KATHY GRIEVE Account Services Manager kathy@417mag.com

NICKI HODGES Account Coordinator nicki@417mag.com

KATIE BATLINER Advertising Design Coordinator kbatliner@417mag.com

ELIZABETH VANFOSSON Digital Coordinator evanfosson@417mag.com

GARY WHITAKER Founder gary@417mag.com

JOAN WHITAKER Founder joan@417mag.com

RIN COLWELL Advertising Designer rin@417mag.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Josh Beecher, Annah Crow, Molly Davis, Jennifer Swenson

417 Magazine | 417mag.com 2111 S. Eastgate Ave., Springfield, MO 65809 417-883-7417 • Fax 417-889-7417

on the cover

We took the 417 Jeep on the road for this month’s cover shoot. The dishes featured are from Conifer, a restaurant in Bentonville, Arkansas.

DINING DAY TRIPS

66 Hit the road for these restaurant destinations that are more than worth the miles. They pack the punch on flavor, atmosphere and menu items you won’t find anywhere else.

WRITTEN BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES, JOY ROBERTSON & TESSA COOPER

THE MOUNTAINS ARE CALLING

76 Editorial Director Katie Pollock Estes shares her insight for planning an RV road trip for a picture perfect family vacation.

WRITTEN BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

The annual Top Doctors issue hits newsstands in July. Our list represents the best in medical and surgical care as chosen by their peers. See who tops the list before anyone else by subscribing now. To get it delivered to your mailbox, head online to 417mag.com/subscribe

The Jumbo Pork Chop from Gobbler’s Roost is true to its name, massive in size and wrapped in bacon.

Photo by Brandon Alms, Cover photo by Brandon Alms

LIFE

28 MOM’S BIG DAY

Our roundup of the best activities to treat your mom this Mother’s Day to a little quality time together.

32 INSPIRING REVITALIZATION

Habitat for Humanity of Springfield helps local families create a home that is truly theirs to love.

34 ABSTRACT PERSPECTIVE

Self-taught painter Jorge Ortiz shares about his love of art and how he’s made his mark on the art scene.

36 TAKE A TRIP TO LABADIE

Discover what the charming unincorporated community of Labadie has to offer for dining, shops and sips.

38 SHOP TILL YOU DROP

Our top 5 takeaways from Fashion House are the perfect insights for planning your next shopping spree.

41 SPRING FLINGS

Fill your calendar for May with these live performances, outdoor events and interactive activities.

OUTSIDE

61 IN-TENT ON CAMPING

Enjoy cool nights around the campfire at our favorite campgrounds for the spring season.

62 GLORY OF GARDENING

Discover Dominion Gardens & Arboretum, a stroll garden nestled into the center of Springfield.

65 GARDEN PARTY

Baker Creek’s Spring Planting Festival features vendors, live music, demonstrations and all things heirloom seeds and gardening.

TASTE

92 A NEW TAKE

Our review of Traza provides a look at their menu full of delicious finds.

94 SAY CHEESE

The garden grilled cheese from Morning Day Cafe is one of our new favorite 417-land menu items.

95 TRUCK YEAH

Food truck Fridays in Carthage offer the perfect selection of food and live music.

96 YOU’RE MY BUTTER HALF

Make your own butter board with these locally sourced ingredients.

Photos by Brandon Alms, Leah Stiefermann, courtesy Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds

There’s one name in trout fishing, and it is Gaston’s. America’s #1 trout fishing resort is legendary, luring anglers from coast to coast for the ultimate White River experience.

Come fish in style and comfort as part of the Gaston’s family.

• FIRST-CLASS GUIDE SERVICE

• LODGING

• ONE OF THE SOUTH’S FINEST RESTAURANTS

• PRIVATE CLUB

• TENNIS COURTS

• SWIMMING POOL

• NATURE TRAILS

• CONFERENCE LODGE

• LANDING STRIP FOR FLY-IN GUESTS

MOTHER’S DAY MENUS & MORE

Here’s your reminder that Sunday, May 14, is Mother’s Day. If you’re still trying to figure out how to treat Mom to something special this year, we’ve got you covered. Whether you want to take her out for an indulgent brunch at The Order, grab

a gift basket from a 417-land favorite or head to one (or all) of the Mother’s Brewing Company Mother’s Day Festival celebrations, you can find our roundup of Mother’s Day activities, gifts and mustdo’s at 417mag.com/mothersday

1777 River Road, Lakeview, AR 72642

870-431-5202 • Email gastons@gastons.com

Lat 36° 20’ 55” N Long 92° 33’ 25” W Gastons.com

MEMORIAL DAY GETAWAY (OR STAY)

Plan ahead for Memorial Day Weekend, from barbecues and splashing around under the Ozarks sun, to local celebrations and hikes. Head to 417mag.com/ memorialday

READY FOR LAUNCH

Ladies Who Launch 2023 is set for Thursday, July 20. Grab your tickets at ladieswholaunch.biz417.com for an inspirational, half-day leadership conference.

stay RIGHT HERE

Last May, we had a family trip get canceled 48-hours before takeoff due to a family illness. This trip to Cozumel had been planned for a year and included my family, my brother’s family and my parents. After we got our initial disappointment out of the way (no cousin time, beach time or other people cooking and bringing me margaritas time) we looked at the opportunity in front of us. An entire week with a wide open calendar and no agenda. The only thing we knew for certain: We were staying right here in 417-land.

I admit it; when I skipped “Good Morning, Springfield!” but made it to my favorite yoga class, I felt a little like a teenager sneaking out of the house. But it was liberating to give myself permission to say “no” to the usual demands on my time. Each day we made different spontaneous decisions. We went to a movie in the middle of the day! We played in our backyard and walked our dog on a greenway trail.

One day we did our own little dining day trip to the Hangar Kafe in Miller, Missouri. It’s a place

we’ve written about often and I’ve had on my list to check out, but I hadn’t made it a priority. My family was a little skeptical until we got there, and then they decided it was the coolest thing ever. If you aren’t familiar, the Hangar Kafe is a little restaurant on the Kingsley Air Field about 30 minutes west of Springfield where you’ll want to look up. While you are munching on breakfast or lunch you can sit on the outdoor patio and watch little planes land and take off or skydivers stick the landing.

So this summer, I encourage you to block your calendar as if you are going out of the country, stay close to home and make a day out of eating your way through a charming, out-of-the-way place. You’ll come home full, refreshed and with a lot less laundry to do!

Logan Aguirre Publisher | logan@417mag.com

Photo courtesy Logan Aguirre

travel for TASTE

My favorite part of planning a family vacation is coming up with a game plan for the food. I love researching the local food scene of whatever destination we’re traveling to, scouring menus, poring over pics of the food on social media and checking online reviews. Finding unique local eats and avoiding chains is one of the most delightful parts of any trip.

During my family’s RV trip to Colorado last summer (which you can read about on p. 76), I collected a wish list of restaurants in a big spread sheet for every spot we were visiting. But one of our favorite meals of the entire trip was a spot we came upon by accident. We’d been exploring Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, a site known for its enormous and gorgeous rock formations that make you feel like you’re on another planet. It was a dreary and chilly day with a sky full of gray clouds, and we’d worn ourselves out trekking through as much of the park as we could. When we were ready to go and get food, we were all a little hangry. We decided to head to one of my pre-researched dining destinations just down the road. It was a Mediterranean restaurant, and it sounded excellent. But when we got to the parking lot, we noticed a Mexican restaurant right next door. It had a disco ball hung over the bar that was throwing light all around the dining room, and my then-5-year-old daughter Eloise pointed at it and said, “Is that a party in there?”

It made me chuckle. “Not a party,” I told her. “Just a disco ball.” But the kids were intrigued. What was this disco ball not-a-party party place that was hurling fun energy at our tired, hungry, cold little family? My son wanted to know, although he didn’t use those words. “It’s a Mexican restaurant,” I told them. “Tacos and stuff.”

Eloise needed to get to that disco ball. Oliver needed a taco. Eli and I admitted we needed a margarita. So we bypassed the Mediterranean spot to warm up and fill up at the taco joint. It was delicious. The perfect ending to our day, and a total unplanned accident.

If you want to find a food-centric road trip for your next adventure, read our Dining Day Trips cover story starting on p. 66, and be prepared to get hungry.

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

My Favorite Page, 79

I love this page because it has a picture of one of my favorite humans (my daughter Eloise) in one of my favorite places (the beautiful campsite where we spent several nights near Estes Park, Colorado). I dream about waking up to that mountain view again one of these days.

Photo by Brandon Alms

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

BEST OF 417 FEEDBACK

It’s outta the bag again. We have been granted the highest local special award by the people who mean the most to us. Thank you all for participating in being from the 417 area, supporting small businesses and appreciating all the hard work we all put into making it worth living here. We are proud to have been voted best bar every year since we opened in 2016. We promise to continue to give you a unique cocktail and eating experience for the rest of our existence. Much love. See you soon. Oh, and btw, we are a rum bar, not a tiki bar.

Golden Girl Rum Club

Thank @417mag! What an honor to be listed among so many greats of 417-land. I’m gushing, blushing, and crying a little. What amazingly kind words. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

417 Cocktails

These are just two of our awesome Best of 417 winners that were featured in the February 2023 issue. Golden Girl Rum Club won a Readers’ Choice Award for Best Cocktail Menu, and 417 Cocktails won an Editors’ Pick for Best Place to Find Unique Cocktail Supplies. To see the rest of the winners, visit 417mag.com and click on Best of 417.—Editor

CORRECTION

In the March 2023 “Hidden Gems” cover story, an error during layout and editing led to the wrong description being printed for Cottage Consignments. The description has been corrected at 417mag.com, and we regret the error.

WE LOVE 417-LAND

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

where’s 417?

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

1. PORT ARANSAS, TEXAS

Russell and Sue Ann Gaddie traveled to Port Aransas, Texas, to eat at Virginia’s on the Bay with their copy of the “Cabin Hideaways” issue.

2. GIZA, EGYPT Gary and Joan Whitaker traveled to the Great Pyramid of Giza with their copy of the “25 Ways to Fall in Love with 417” issue.

3. GOLDEN, COLORADO

Aimee, Hayden and Andi Ball and Bernadette Pry visited Golden, Colorado, with their copy of the “Made in 417-Land” issue.

1. BALI, INDONESIA

Laura Knox traveled to Bali, Indonesia, with her copy of the “Made in 417Land” issue.

2. TOKYO, JAPAN

Kim, Mark and Yuka Paulson and family visited in Hino City with their copy of the “Made in 417-Land” issue.

4. SANTIAGO, CHILE

The Williamsons and Johanna Moya, Lisa LeGrand and Rick Derington visited Santiago, Chile, with the “Cabin Hideaways” issue.

3. GRAND CAYMAN, MEXICO

Jessica Martin and Katherine Bowden traveled to Grand Cayman with their copy of the “Ciao Down” issue.

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.

1. ARUBA Todd and Theresa Boness traveled to Aruba with their copy of the “Made in 417-Land” issue.

2. TULUM, MEXICO Dewayne, Tavo, Brian and Gus Vega visited the Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico, with their copy of the “Lightning” issue.

3. KALIHIWAI, HAWAII Fred Browning visited the Kilauea Point Wildlife Refuge with his copy of the “Ciao Down” issue.

1. MAUI, HAWAII Mark and Lynn Sims traveled to Maui with their copy of the “Best of 417” issue.

2. PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO Martha and Daniela Broughton traveled to Puerto Vallarta with their copy of the “Ciao Down” issue.

Vintage fishing lure, $125; Lake Life throw pillow, $8.50; vintage thermos, $12; decorative paddle, $25; Lake Life wooden sign, $7.95; set of four ducks, $30; sailboat flag, $25; brass anchor, $20

best SWEET THINGS TO DO WITH MOM

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

SHOP THE MOTHER’S DAY MARKET

May 13 at Schofield + Gray, 353 E. Main St., Fordland, schofieldgray.com

Schofield + Gray’s seasonal markets are always a treat, and this month’s event would make a great day date with your mom. The Mother’s Day Market features vintage, antique, garden and home décor items from tons of local vendors. Food trucks are on hand offering eats and sweets to keep you going as you shop all through the day.

POUR YOUR OWN CANDLE

at Heirloom Candle Bar, 400 W. Walnut St., Springfield, heirloomcandlebar.com

Candles make a great Mother’s Day gift. But you know Mom will love it even more if she gets to pick the scent and spend an afternoon hanging out with you while she’s at it. Take her to Heirloom Candle Bar, where you can each choose a pretty little vessel, create or find the perfect scent and then pour the candle by hand.

3

PAINT A VASE THEN FILL IT WITH FLOWERS

at Artistree Pottery and Fleur Floral Studio, both located at 1423 E. Cherry St., Springfield, artistreepottery.com, fleurfloralstudio.com

Take Mom for a relaxing pottery painting sesh at Artistree Pottery, where she can choose from tons of beautiful objects to paint. We recommend painting a vase. Then, when you head back a week a later to pick it up post-firing, you can go next door to Fleur Floral Studio and fill it up with beautiful blooms.

4

DIG INTO A LAZY BRUNCH

at one of several 417-land locations

What kind of food and atmosphere does Mom love? We bet you can find an indulgent brunch to match it. Just a few examples: The Worman House Bistro at Big Cedar Lodge has upscale vibes and French flair. The Ozark Mill Restaurant at Finley Farms offers pretty riverside views and a modern-meets-historical vibe. And The Keeter Center at College of the Ozarks has that homegrown, farm-to-table feel since so much of the restaurant’s products are grown or raised at the college.

5

WHILE THE DAY AWAY ON A BREWERY LAWN

4 by 4 Brewing Co. Fremont Hills, 9003 Sawgrass Ave., Nixa, 4by4brewingcompany.com

With its second location open now in Fremont Hills, 4 by 4 Brewing Co. has even more ways to spend a leisurely day of brewery fun—perfect for the mom who loves sunshine, tasty sips and the company of her favorite people. When the new spot opened in March, they were still working on their outdoor spaces and all the lawn game style fun that goes along with it. But even if those parts still aren’t ready when you visit, the massive outdoor dining area and two tap rooms are reason enough to visit.

CURRENTS

Shari Lockhart

[

BEHIND THE SCENES ]

TOP DOWN

Getting the top off the 417 Jeep for our cover shoot nearly did in our Editorial Designer Grace Chipley.

staff poll

GRACE CHIPLEY

Editorial Designer

I’d road trip up to Chicago to go to Spinning J! We found it on vacation and it’s the cutest bakery, complete with the best cinnamon rolls I’ve ever had, which is saying a lot because I don’t like cinnamon rolls.

WHAT RESTAURANT ARE YOU WILLING TO TAKE A ROAD TRIP FOR?

MICHELLE LEWIS

Editorial Intern

Every time I find myself in Kansas City I make sure to stop at Meshuggah Bagels, a locally owned bakery that brings the taste of bagels from New York. My go-to is a plain bagel with the Oreo Cheesecake Schmear.

KATIE BATLINER

Advertising Designer

Lion’s Choice in St. Louis (or on your way in Sullivan). Arby’s does not do it for me.

KAITLYN MESSINA

Finance Assistant

I would always miss going to the Aviary when I lived out of state for college, so we would be sure to make a stop in on the weekends that I came home to visit—definitely one of the highlights of home!

COURTNEY SKORNIA

Editorial Intern

My go-to favorite is a meat lover’s pizza from Imo’s Pizza in St. Louis! Even though we have Imo’s Pizza in Springfield, there is just something about the St. Louis locations that are worth the trip.

JO JOLLIFF

Research Editor

I would make the drive to Shell Knob for a trip to the salad bar at Steak Inn any day of the week. It’s such a cozy atmosphere with twinkle lights and big wooden booths paired with the best food.

Photos by Sarah Patton, Brandon Alms

what we LEARNED

“I learned about a great little hidden gem, the Dominion Gardens on Walnut Street, that we talk about in Park It on page 62. I’ve driven and walked by there so many times but never realized it was open to the public. It’s such a peaceful and serene place in the middle of town, and part of me doesn’t want anyone else to know about it It’s a real life secret garden!”

—Creative Director Sarah Patton (read “Dominion Gardens and Arboretum” on p. 62)

“For this month’s story highlighting Habitat for Humanity of Springfield’s 35-year anniversary, I was able to learn the inspiring story of Keri Durban She’s local mother whose life has been completely changed by this organization.” —Editorial Intern Michelle Lewis (read “One Home at a Time” on p. 32)

“I learned so much about the town of Nixa, like the city being known for having one of the largest solar farms in Southwest Missouri! I might even stop by the Sucker Days Festival too!”—Editorial Intern Courtney Skornia (read “Nixa Community Spotlight” on p. 83)

“While writing the calendar for May, I was amazed at how many events and activities are open to the public! Although Springfield is small, there are so many things to do if you search for them.”—Editorial Intern Adesyn Shelton (read “Stuff to Do” on p. 41)

“I learned people are willing to drive pretty far for good food. But it makes sense cause these are next level meals.”—Research Editor Jo Jolliff (read “Dining Trips” on p. 66)

WEATHER WE CAN’T STOP TALKING ABOUT

This year our office beat the weather curse for Biz 417’s Think Summit event. In past years, we’ve fought off many snow storms but since making the decision to move the event to April, we were able to celebrate with a full auditorium.

Photo by Brandon Alms

One Home at a Time

Habitat for Humanity of Springfield began operations 35 years ago as a response to a widespread local need. Today, the organization operates with the same mission: to create a world where everyone has a place to live.

BY MICHELLE LEWIS

As a single mother of two toddlers, Keri Durban struggled with finding home loans that would work around her needs. The few loans Durban did qualify for weren’t enough funding for a home for both her and her children and she knew it would be impossible for her to save the extra money and afford the high interest rates of traditional loans. After hearing about Habitat for Humanity of Springfield Durban applied for HFHS’s Home Buying Program, completely unsure of what would happen. She received her approval on June 10, 2022, a day that would forever change her life.

“I grew up in an unstable environment and for so long I was worried I wouldn’t be able to provide stability for my children,” says Durban. “After working with Habitat, I feel more confident about providing my children a safe place to raise them.”

Durban hit the ground running to complete the 250 hours of classes and volunteering required by HFHS all while beginning to save money to help her

knock down some of the debt she’s acquired in the past. After the long journey, Durban will move into her home with her two sons later this year.

WHAT THEY DO

One of HFHS’s largest areas of focus is providing assistance to local families that may struggle to qualify for a traditional loan and guiding them through the process of buying a home. Many of the individuals who receive assistance from HFHS have never owned a home and are often stuck in the constant cycle of moving from rental to rental. HFHS’s Home Buying Program gives these community members the opportunity to purchase a new home with a loan that holds 0% interest. Loans are paid back to the organization over time where the money is used to impact more community members.

Future homeowners go through a variety of educational classes that help them learn firsthand how to care for their future home and how to budget their finances. “These classes coach our homeown-

ers to be some of the most responsible homeowners in our area,” says Christopher Tuckness, executive director of HFHS. Between classes, working with volunteers to build their homes and volunteering, future homeowners put in anywhere from 250-350 hours of work towards their new homes.

HFHS doesn’t just put people in homes. Alongside HFHS’s Home Buying Program, the organization also works to preserve and revitalize homes and neighborhoods throughout the community. HFHS partners with local homeowners to complete vital repairs that can prevent community members from being forced to uproot from their homes.

THE IMPACT

Over the past 35 years HFHS has served over 1,200 households through home buying, home repairs and neighborhood revitalization. While inspiring, this number only begins to show the true impact.

There are those who have gone through Habitat’s process that choose to get pets, something that many non-homeowners can’t achieve. Even more special, though, is the opportunity to create a home that is truly theirs. Durban, like many others who have gone through HFHS’s Home Buying Program, already has plans for how she is going to decorate her son’s room.

Amber Mueller, director of development and partnerships at HFHS, says the little things like this are exactly why HFHS does what it does. “There are so many things we take for granted,” says Mueller. “Understanding what these homes mean to people is humbling and inspiring.”

HOW TO HELP

There are three main ways to get involved with HFHS: shopping, volunteering and donating. Make your way to HFHS’s ReStore, a nonprofit home improvement store; all funds from the store go straight toward HFHS’s mission. With only 33 employees, HFHS relies heavily on the efforts of local volunteers. Sign up to volunteer in the construction of new habitat homes or volunteer in the ReStore. Make a financial donation online or donate new and gently used building materials, furniture and appliances to the ReStore.

BY THE NUMBERS

Households served since 1988: 1,200

Volunteer hours logged in 2022: 15,393

In a survey of HFHS homeowners, 90% said they have an improved overall outlook on life.

Keri Durban and her two toddlers worked with Habitat for Humanity to build the home of their dreams.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

"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 jampacked with coasters, water rides, ziplines, ice cream, and everything else that makes your Vacation scream for joy. Find out more at ExploreBranson.com.

Can’t-miss events, pop culture hits and our favorite odds and ends from this month’s issue.

BY THE EDITORS

CELEBRATE ARTSFEST

It’s our favorite time of the year again, Artsfest! A time for celebrating artists’ work from all over the country while enjoying live entertainment, delicious food and a variety of vendors for a weekend of fun.

 Everybody knows, the first weekend in May is a big one on Historic Walnut Street. It’s when artists gather to set up booths and show off their best work in one of Springfield’s most beloved juried art shows—and Springfieldians gather in throngs to pack the street and check it all out.

There’s everything from wood working and clay to photography and jewelry, and you’ll be inspired by a variety of work from over 100 featured artists. Catch live music and performances on one of the event’s outdoor stages, and munch on food from a variety of local food trucks and vendors.

Sculpture Walk

The new collection of sculptures debuted April 29 with unique new sculptures to enjoy throughout Springfield. Grab a map for when and where to find each sculpture included in the eighth annual collection.

 Sculpture walk serves the Springfield community as a museum without walls with pieces like “Hubcaps on Route 66” created by Joe and Terry Malesky of New Adventure Sculptures. This, and other quality sculptures, are displayed annually on a rotating schedule. You can find printable maps to locate all the sculptures online at scultpturewalkspringfield.org and more information on their Instagram @sculpturewalkspringfield. If you don’t have time to find them all, you can also find

the HOT LIST

seven things we can’t stop talking about this month

1.

Hot Well-Seasoned New Bite

Ready to join in on the fun? Plan your day at Artsfest now.

When: May 6–7

Where: Historic Walnut Street Tickets: $5 tickets at the gate Go to springfieldarts.org/artsfest for tickets and more information.

3rabiana, the new Arabian food truck in Springfield that’s slinging shawarma pitas

2.

Hot Saturday Morning Hotspot

The Kona snow cone truck at Sequiota Park, where greenway runners and cyclists land for a mid-trek pick-me-up

3.

Hot Pocket

Homemade brown sugar and cinnamon toaster pastries from Architect Coffee

4. Hot Ticket

Chicago on May 6 at Hammons Hall for a taste of Broadway, baby!

5. Hot Swirls and Twirls Springfield Ballet’s Performance of The Wizard of Oz, May 5–7

6. Hot Lifesaver for Frazzled Moms

Pools open around Memorial Day—just in time to entertain all those bored, sweaty kids who just got out of school for the summer

maps. For a less overwhelming task, each map is a curated selection of a few of the sculptures included in this year’s display, to check out a few pieces in your free time.

7. Hot Shot

Practicing your drive at Horton Smith Golf Course with a $9 bucket of balls

Photos by Kate Whitney, Todd Reynolds

shortened route

COLORFUL TASTE

Stepping out of the family restaurant business and into the world of visual art, self-taught painter Jorge Ortiz is putting his stamp on the 417land art scene—one colorful mural at a time.

BY COLIN SHEA DENNISTON

Spend any considerable amount of time in 417-land, and chances are you’ll eat at at least one restaurant owned by a relative of Jose Ortiz. Ortiz’s siblings run some of Springfield’s most popular Mexican eateries, including Cielito Lindo, Jose Locos and the always crowded Cesar’s Old Mexico. “They were like, ‘When are you going to have your restaurant?’ Ortiz says of his family. “I don’t think I’m going to have a restaurant,” he recalls with a grin. “I’m going to go a different way.”

The seventh of nine siblings, Ortiz came to Springfield from Guadalajara, Mexico, in 2003 to visit his brother, and as he says, “I decided

to stay.” Without any formal training, Ortiz began painting once he arrived in 417-land, and it wasn’t long before his new hobby became a successful career.

While still in Mexico, Ortiz began studying for a career in architecture. “I feel like they’re brothers,” he says of architecture and painting. But while architecture focuses heavily on structure and balance, painting leans more into feelings. “I like expressing my ideas with colors,” Ortiz says. And while bold colors can be seen in a majority of Ortiz’s work, he’s the first to point out that his aesthetic is ever-evolving. “I don’t like to stay in one style. I [have painted]

portraits, people, animals, landscape and now I do this,” Ortiz says, gesturing to the colorful abstract prints lining the wall of his gallery on Republic Road.

Ortiz mostly works with acrylic on canvas— admitting that he is too impatient to wait for oil-based paints to dry—but his subject matter changes regularly. “Sometimes I feel like I just want to paint flowers for the whole month,” Ortiz says. “And the next [month] change my mind and do abstract paintings.”

Additionally, Ortiz’s large-scale murals are some his most recognizable local works, including the festive scene inside Cellar + Plate and the “Tom Hanks” mural outside Systematic Savings Bank on South Street.

Most recently, Ortiz created the artwork for Señor Julian Mexican Bar & Grill, a new Mexican restaurant—owned by friends of Ortiz— near Battlefield and Highway 65. Inside the restaurant, Ortiz created a series of alebrije prints—traditional, spirit animal artwork that Ortiz describes as “a lot of color and kind of cartoon-y but really classic in Mexico.”

Any while Ortiz’s style may be hard to pin down, there is one subject he returns to time

Artist Jorge Ortiz displays his artwork at his Springfield studio.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

and time again: Frida Kahlo. “I have an obsession with Frida,” Ortiz says. “I have three Fridas hanging on the walls in my house. I like to bring Fridas to my galleries because I can show people I can do more than abstract paintings.”

FIND IT

In addition to his Republic Road gallery (1267 E. Republic Road, Springfield, MO 65804), Ortiz’s work can be found in—and on—a variety of businesses throughout 417-land including Cellar + Plate, Maschino’s, BelowZero Cryo Spa, Jose Locos, Systematic Savings Bank, Señior Julian Mexican Bar & Grill, Meridian Title Company and more.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

getaway to LABADIE

Augusta gets a lot of glory, but not far away is the charming unincorporated community of Labadie, Missouri. With a population of 2,449, you wouldn’t expect a distillery, brewery, stellar restaurant and two sites on the National Register of Historic Places—but Labadie offers all of it. Bethel Church, a Methodist church built in 1868, and the two-story James North House, circa 1819, are both worth a quick peek if you’re a history buff. Otherwise, get ready to eat, drink and be merry.

BY JULIANA GOODWIN

GRAB A BITE

The Hawthorne Inn, established 1994, attracts tourists from afar (thehawthorneinn.net)

The steak, pasta and fish are stars of the show, but the menu is eclectic so you should find something to please everyone. There’s house-made lasagna, pizza and fresh salmon filet charbroiled, drizzled in a honey thyme sauce and served with a Cajun roasted red pepper and caramelized shallot cream sauce, topped with onions straws.

2

DISCOVER UNIQUE ART

Labadie Station is an emporium of art, antiques and curiosities, where you’ll be able to find unique pieces like Jack Daniels earrings and funny home décor, homemade candy, housewares and much more. Cat lovers will appreciate the owner because in winter, she makes cat shelters and leaves them outside her business for people to pick up for free to shelter stray cats in bad weather.

Photo courtesy the Hawthorne Inn

3

REASON TO GO

To sip an IPA at Point Labaddie Brewery

TRIP LENGTH

One day—no need to pack a bag!

TRAVEL TIME

2 hours 45 minutes each way

SAY CHEERS 

Samuel Berton Distilling (sbdistilling.net/ home ) opened its doors in December 2018, and was started by a retired engineer who named it for his grandfather. Christina Svetz took over in January 2023 and is now the head distiller and owner. There are nine spirits on the menu, but the best sellers are oatmeal spiced whiskey, rye whiskey and gin. Stop in for a tasting to sample her lineup of spirits and a keepsake shot glass.

4

RAISE A GLASS

At Point Labaddie Brewery (pointlabaddiebrewery.com), a charming brewery that focuses on Belgian style beers and IPAs. There are eight beers on the board or one or two ciders, brewed in house. But this is more than a place to grab a brew, it’s a gathering place. There’s a farmer’s market every Thursday evening and live bluegrass music every Sunday, and they regularly host open music events on Friday nights.

5 BOOK A CABIN

Labadie doesn’t have much to offer in the lodging department, but in nearby towns, there are several cute rentals listed on VRBO and Airbnb. The Lake Haven is listed on VRBO, and is a mid-century three-bedroom, two-bathroom cabin with a large porch and view of a 20-acre lake. Although the 1940s cabin has been renovated and restored, it has original knotty pine walls. It’s about 9 miles from Labadie.

Sample the delicious menu at Hawthorne Inn (left), grab a drink from Samuel Berton Distilling (top) and enjoy quaint small -town views (right).

Photos courtesy Samuel Berton Distilling, Friends of Old Bethel

READY, SET, SHOP

Here are my top takeaways for why you should consider a visit to Fashion House for your next shopping spree for high-quality women’s fashion in a Scandinavian-style designed store.

BY COLIN SHEA DENNISTON

FOR THE FEED

It may not be the reason you visit, but the large-scale mural on Fashion House’s exterior (part of a recent expansion, remodel and re-branding) is the perfect spot to capture a quick pic with your shopping crew.

THIS IS EXCLUSIVE

ANTIQUE UPDATED

Expertly organized and carefully curated, Lake Life Antiques is the Table Rock Lake area’s newest hidden gem.

BY COLIN SHEA DENNISTON

The term “antique store” often comes with a set of preconceived—and less than desirable—connotations: dingy, dusty and full of rejected items that didn’t make the cut during last year’s spring cleaning. But at Lake Life Antiques, a new-on-the-scene antique shop in Kimberling City, they’re flipping that narrative on its head, delivering a freshened-up, crisp and clean antique shopping experience for Table Rock Lake residents and visitors alike.

Located on Missouri 13 and in the same shopping center as the popular LakeTime Bistro and The Funky Twig Ice Cream Shop, Lake Life Antiques offers a curated mix of art, collectibles and of course,

antiques. Upon entering the lively shop, visitors are greeted by high ceilings, expertly organized displays and the distinctive smell of fresh wood.

The shop includes 39 booths—a mix of owner-sourced antiques plus many outside vendors— with a collection ranging from vintage prints and kitchenware to taxidermy and tackle. While a lot of the products lean toward the “lake life” aesthetic, it isn’t just for those lucky enough to have a place on the water. Whether you’re looking to furnish a second home or pool house, or simply trying to add a bit of vintage charm to an already decorated space, a visit to Lake Life Antiques is the perfect shopping adventure for your next weekend by the water.

In addition to carrying numerous US and Canada based lines, Fashion House has a wide range of offerings from designers outside of the US. And what’s more, Fashion House is the only store in the region to carry a number of these labels like Kozan by designer Melissa Kozan (Turkey), Alembika (Israel), Masai and Noen (Denmark).

SUPERB SELECTION

With new shipments of clothing arriving almost every day, owner Anette Tuxen makes a point of keeping the store stocked with a large selection of items in a variety of styles and sizes. To maintain her ever-changing selection of clothing and accessories, Tuxen follows style trends and makes trips to clothing markets around the country.

BEYOND THE CLOTHES

Scattered among the wide selection of clothing items, Fashion House carries a surprisingly large number of accessories, predominantly jewelry, purses and other bags.

RELAX, BRO

While they may not carry any men’s items, they haven’t forgotten about the guys. As part of the expansion and remodel, Tuxen created a comfortable sitting area so the gentlemen can take a load off.

Photos by Brandon Alms, Leah Stiefermann

[ SHOP TALK ]

MAY CALENDAR

This month is packed with live performances, artful events and super-fun activities for the whole family to enjoy together.

BY ADESYN SHELTON

 SPRINGFIELD CARDINALS GAMES

MAY 2 –7, 23 –28

Are you ready to root, root, root for the home team? This month, be sure to take your family out to the ball game and cheer on the Springfield Cardinals! This month, the Cardinals take on the Arkansas Travelers on May 2–7 and the Wichita Wind Surge on May 23–28.

Ticket prices and game times vary. Visit springfieldcardinals.com for more information. Hammons Field, 955 East Trafficway St., Springfield.

WAKA FLOCKA FLAME

MAY 3

See globally renowned rapper Waka Flocka Flame, known for hits like “No Hands,” perform on stage here in Springfield.

$20 adults, $10 MSU students; 8 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield. For tickets, visit hammonshall.com or call 417-836-7678

SPRING DANCE CONCERT: “ART IN MOTION”

MAY 4 – 7

Watch canvas come to life in this unique display of art as dance. Performers transform into artists, expressing emotions and thought through movement.

$12–14; Thursday–Saturday 7:30–9:15 p.m., Sunday 2:30–4:15 p.m.; Craig Hall Room Coger Theatre, 1147 E Grand St., Springfield. For tickets, visit missouristatetix.com or call 417-836-7678.

BLUEGRASS & BBQ FESTIVAL

MAY 4 – 29

Head over to Silver Dollar City and celebrate the American way! Indulge in your favorite smoked meats while listening to some of the best Bluegrass around.

Prices vary; Times vary; Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Parkway, Branson.

For information, visit silverdollarcity.com or call 417-336-7100.

BLUE HOUSE PROJECT PORCH PARTY

MAY 5

This tribute to Drew Lewis and his legacy celebrates 10 years of growth for the Drew Lewis Foundation. The Blue House Project purchases nuisance properties in Grant Beach, renovates them, and sells them back to Drew Lewis Foundation RISE families at cost—thus gifting them the equity in the property. Guests at the event get to nibble on refreshments while touring some of the remodeled homes.

5–7 p.m.; The Fairbanks, 1126 N. Broadway Ave., Springfield. Learn more at drewlewis.org.

EVERY BRILLIANT THING

MAY 5–7, 11–14, 18–21

Cry, laugh and gasp during this production full of inspiration. This inspirational story of life, depression and joy will lead you through all the emotions in just one show.

$10–29; 7:30 p.m., Sundays 2 p.m.; Springfield Contemporary Theatre, 2025 East Chestnut Expressway, Suite D, Springfield. For tickets, visit springfieldcontemporarytheatre.org.

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK

MAY 5

Get creative with your Friday night by strolling through downtown Springfield’s shops and galleries to see live performances and local artists’ work on display.

Free; 6–10 p.m., downtown Springfield, ffaw.org.

THE WIZARD OF OZ

MAY 5–7

Don’t miss out on this graceful ballet production by Springfield Ballet of your favorite classic. Watch as Dorothy tries to find her way home and makes friends on the way.

Tickets start at $18; Friday 7:30 p.m., Saturday 12 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m.; Landers Theatre, 311 E Walnut St., Springfield. For tickets, visit springfieldballet.org or call 417-862-1343.

CHICAGO

MAY 6

Grab your girls and pop in to Hammons Hall for its 25th production of CHICAGO! Prepare to be wow’d by amazing dancing, vocals, and a little razzle dazzle.

$25-90; 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield.

For tickets, visit hammonshall.com or call 417836-7678.

ARTSFEST

MAY 6–7

A beloved annual tradition, Artsfest brings more than 100 artists from around the country to Historic Walnut Street. There’s also live entertainment and plenty of food vendors at this outdoor street fair that’s the perfect outing for the whole family—and especially for art lovers.

$5 at the gate, free for ages 5 and younger; Historic Walnut Street in Downtown Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit springfieldarts. org/artsfest.

MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY MFA SHOWCASE

MAY 6–28

This exhibition includes works from Master of Fine Arts candidates in Missouri State University’s MFA Visual Studies program.

Free admission; Sundays 1–5, Wednesday–Fridays 12-8 p.m., Saturdays 10–6 p.m.; Springfield Art Museum, 1111 East Brookside Dr., Springfield. For more information, visit sgfmuseum.org or call 417-837-5700.

GIGS IN THE GARDEN

MAY 7, 14 & 21

What’s better than live music? Live music in the fresh air. During three Sundays in May, Gigs in the Garden brings live music to the Peace Through People Pavilian at Springfield Botanical Gardens. Goat Milk Honey plays on May 7, Mojo Lite with guest Johnnie Angelia King plays on May 14, and The Paper Moons play on May 21. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. Beer and wine are available for purchase.

Free admission, $10 suggested donation; 2 p.m.; Springfield Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield;

CURTAINS & CORKS

MAY 9

Support the Springfield Little Theatre at this “theatrical wine tasting event” that features entertainment, delicious food from local restaurants, fun games and prizes and plenty of wine. Spring for a VIP ticket to get early entry into the event, access to the VIP Sangria Lounge with 417 Cocktails, and a wine tumbler.

$60 VIP, $40 general admission; 6 p.m VIP, 6:30 p.m. general admission; The Landers Theatre, 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield, springfieldlittletheatre.org

ZACH WILLIAMS

MAY 9

His A Hundred Highways Tour brings Zach Williams to Springfield. He’s a multi-Grammy and GMA Dove Award winning musician and songwriter who brings a 10-piece band along to back him up. VIP tickets include access to an Eat & Greet dinner, a meeting with Williams, and more.

$29.50–220.50; 7 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield.

For tickets, visit hammonshall.com or call 417836-7678.

CORNDOG KICKOFF 2023

MAY 13

If the fun food booths are your favorite part of the Ozark Empire Fair, then come to the corndog kickoff to taste samples of all that super-good, super-indulgent fair food. General admission tickets get you access to the samples. VIP tick-

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

CALENDAR

ets include access to a special VIP lounge where food samples are delivered to guests, and there’s a complimentary VIP bar. Proceeds benefit the Ozark Empire Fair Foundation.

$15 kids, $20 adults, $45 VIP in advance; parking 5 p.m., event 6 p.m.; Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant, Springfield, ozarkempirefair.com

POWER BALLADS

MAY 13

Witness a night of unforgettable arias, duets, and ensembles from international opera superstar Michael Spyres and his family Tara Stafford-Spyres, Sean Spyres and Erica Spyres at this Springfield Symphony Orchestra performance. Tickets start at $25; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy, Springfield. For tickets, visit springfieldmosymphony.org or call 417-864-6683.

 MOTHER’S DAY MARKET

MAY 13

Celebrate motherhood at this adorable pop-up market with home decor, antique, garden, and gift vendors. Stay until you’re hungry and grab food or dessert!

Free; 9–3 p.m.; Schofield + Gray, 353 E Main St., Fordland.

For information, visit schofieldgray.com.

SILHOUETTES

MAY 13

See the shadow dance company that was first runner up on America’s Got Talent in 2011 and Golden Buzzer winner on America’s Got Talent The Champions in 2020. The show is a dance story all about love, and it’s family-friendly.

$50–55; 6 p.m. doors, 7 p.m. show; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 514 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa; nixapublicschools.net/aetos

Needing a wardrobe refresh?

Weʼre ready to style you in everything “fresh”!

Photo courtesy Schofield & Gray

SPRING PLANTING FESTIVAL

MAY 14–15

Head to Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company’s pioneer village for their biggest annual event, where you can find presentations about homesteading, plants and seeds for sale, and much more. Admission is free, but you must purchase a parking pass in advance since parking is limited.

$15 parking pass; 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company, 2278 Baker Creek Road, Mansfield, rareseeds.com

MY FAIR LADY

MAY 16–18

Listen to classics such as “I Could Have Danced All Night” and “The Rain in Spain” at the production of the classic Broadway favorite, My Fair Lady.

Tickets start at $37; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield. For tickets, visit hammonshall.com or call 417-836-7678.

BARN DANCE AT HEARTWOOD BARN

MAY 19

Grab your partner and head to Sycamore Creek for a Barn Dance experience. All ages can enjoy this country-dancing event where your whole family will have an evening full of fun. Concessions and Cruse Dog Park merch will be available, and proceeds benefit Cruse Dog Park.

$7–13; 7–10 p.m.; 2657 Sunset Inn Rd., Branson. For tickets, visit sycamorecreekfamilyranch.com or call 417-278-6675.

BARK IN THE PARK

MAY 20

Bring your favorite pup to this low-key day of fun, featuring live music, interactive crafts, fun activi-

Photo courtesy Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds/rareseeds.com

ties and lots of local businesses to visit at the Canine Vendor Village.

Free; 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; Phelps Grove Park, 950 E. Bennett St., Springfield

BOOKS & BREWS BREWERY BOOK CLUB

MAY 24

Join any or every book club meeting at Hold Fast Brewing on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Check out the Facebook group Books & Brews Brewery Book Club to stay up to date on the latest book, brew and discussion.

Free; 6:00 p.m.; Hold Fast Brewing, 235 North Kimbrough Avenue, Springfield.

SPRINGFIELD TOURS

MAY 26 & 27

Join the History Museum on the Square for enlightening and entertaining walking tours of both Downtown Springfield and Commercial Street, where you’ll learn interesting historical facts and visit significant spots in both neighborhoods. Commercial Street tours meet at Jefferson Avenue Footbridge, and Downtown Springfield tours meet at History Museum on the Square at 154 Park Central Square.

$15 for members, $20 for nonmembers; 5:30 p.m. on May 26 (Downtown Springfield), 10:30 a.m. on May 27 (Commercial Street). Find more details at historymuseumonthesquare.org.

LEANNE MORGAN: JUST GETTING STARTED

JUNE 2

Comedian Leanne Morgan comes to Hammons Hall bringing southern charm and all the relatable humor of a stay-at-home mom of three.

$32–103; 7 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Springfield. For tickets, visit hammonshall.com or call 417-836-7678

Photos courtesy History Museum on the Square

SERTOMA GRIN IRON CLASSIC

JUNE 2

This is the 22nd year for this annual all-star football game featuring almost 90 graduated seniors from local high schools going head to head to benefit the Tooth Truck mobile dental clinic.

$10, 7:30 p.m., JFK Stadium, Parkview High School, 1333 S. Grant Ave., Springfield, rmhcozarks.org/events

ART IN MOTION

THROUGH JULY 9

This collection, pulled from the Springfield Art Museum’s permanent collection, shows ways that artists portray motion in their work. There are sculptures, paintings, drawings and more from numerous artists on display.

Free; regular museum hours, Springfield Art Museum, 1111 E. Brookside Dr., Springfield, sgfmuseum.org

HOLDING SPACE

THROUGH JULY 30: HOLDING SPACE

The Holding Space: Contemporary Enamel Vessels exhibition at Springfield Art Museum features work by local artist Sarah Perkins, as well as work from several other enameling artists on loan from other museums. The pieces on display highlight the wide variety of approaches to the art and techniques.

Free; regular museum hours, Springfield Art Museum, 1111 E. Brookside Dr., Springfield, sgfmuseum.org

STAND-UP COMEDY  ONGOING

When you’re in the mood to laugh, check out the lineup of stellar stand-up comedians at Blue Room Comedy Club. The next few weeks, you can find Isiah J. Kelly on May 4–5, Dusty Slay on May 6–7, Dan Soder on May 11–13, Ben Bailey on May 14, Lavell Crawford on May 19–21, Sam Jay on May 25–26 and Steve Treviño on June 2–3.

Prices and show times vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield, blueroomcomedyclub.com

 MIDWEEK MATINEE ONGOING

Head to the Gillioz every other Wednesday to see a classic film on the big screen in a historic setting. This month, you can watch Grease on May 3 and The Rock on May 17. Next month, look for The Blues Brothers on June 7 and Tombstone on June 21. The $10 ticket price includes a general admission seat in the theatre and a voucher for a free non-alcoholic drink and a popcorn.

$10; 1 p.m. doors, 2 p.m. show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield, gillioztheatre.org

THE MASTERS OF SILENT FILM

JUNE 4

This event presented by Peacherine Ragtime Society Orchestra features silent film on the big screen accompanied by live music and period-appropriate special effects. You’ll get to see works of Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Laurel & Hardy.

$10.50–17.50; 1 p.m. doors, 2 p.m. show; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield, gillioztheatre.org

Photos courtesy Blue Room Comedy Club, the Gillioz

When do you feel your best? Chances are, it’s when you feel healthy and clear minded. Vibrant. Pain free. Smooth skin. Polished teeth. Styled hair. Relaxed muscles. Consider this your guide to confidence, to feeling your best and to finding the experts who can get you there!

Q&A

with Burrell Behavioral Helath

What do your customers typically think of when they’re trying to achieve their “best self”?

Our clients all seek one thing – to feel better. Finding what “better” looks like for them is how they are achieving their best selves. We provide the care and support needed to help them achieve “better” one step at a time.

What do you recommend to clients to be their best?

It starts with a first step. This could be a step into services, having a tough conversation or simply telling a loved one, “I am not okay.” To know what that first step might look like for you, start by checking in with yourself. If you or anyone needs some extra support, we’re here to help.

How do you deliver your personal best to clients?

To be our best selves, we have to check in with our own mental health too. This means regularly asking ourselves how we are doing, seeking support when we need it and being willing to have honest conversations about mental health with loved ones. To truly care for our clients, we need to be taking care of our own brain health.

417-761-5000

burrellcenter.com

Kids and teens are struggling. According to the CDC, one in six youth experiences a mental health disorder every year, but only 20 percent receive the care they need. Not getting this care means kids are suffering in silence, and for some, making plans to end their lives. Nearly one in five teens seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including 30 percent of teen girls. In fact, suicide is the second leading cause of death for youth ages 10-14. Local kids need us to step up and intervene in this y outh mental health crisis.

Helping the local community be their “best selves” means caring for a

child’s whole health, including their brain health. Knowing where to start and having conversations about mental health can feel challenging. But Burrell Behavioral Health can help. Whether it’s in the community, in a school setting or at a clinic, Burrell’s team is here to journey with families when situations feel hopeless and the world feels difficult to understand or manage. Burrell offers therapy, psychiatry, eating disorder services, autism services, community- and school-based services and more. Learn more about how Burrell c an partner with your family by visiting burrellcenter.com/report.

Helping the local community be their “best selves” means caring for a child’s whole health, including their brain health.

Left to Right: Joe Uhl, Director, Youth Community Services; Crystal Beckham, PsyD, Director, Outpatient Services; Stephanie Robbins, Program Coordinator, RecoverED Eating Disorder Services; Brooke Allen, Director, Applied Behavior Analysis Services; Mitra Pedram, Director, Behavioral Crisis Center and Youth Residential Services; Amanda Mays, System Director, Recovery Services; Seth Allen, EdD, Director, Autism

Q&A

What do you love most about your business?

We love being able to help patients navigate the reconstructive process as they navigate a difficult cancer diagnosis. We are able to help people reach their reconstructive and cosmetic surgery goals in an individualized and expert setting.

How do you deliver your personal best to clients? With nearly 80 years of combined experience, we try to deliver excellent outcomes and help people reach their goals every day.

Why did you choose to go into your current profession?

Plastic Surgery is a broad and challenging field and one that requires attention to detail and meticulous planning. The patient interactions bring us so much joy as we are able to help them achieve their goals.

From all types of cosmetic procedures to full reconstructive surgeries after a difficult cancer diagnosis, countless patients have trusted the Center for Plastic Surgery at CoxHealth for over 30 years. Their five surgeons have a combined 80 years of experience and their nursing and front office staff have decades of experience.

When it comes to plastic surgery, one of the most important things is to find a team with that kind of experience and accreditation to back it up. The Center for Plastic Surgery’s practice has some of the most highly trained and nationally recognized providers in the entire region. They are all board certified by the American Board

of Plastic Surgery, the only AMA and ABMA recognized board for the field.

The Center for Plastic Surgery was founded on the belief that aging is a treatable condition, not a foregone conclusion. Their approach to slowing, preventing and even reversing the signs of aging is through early detection and appropriate intervention, combining state-of-the-art plastic surgery with scientifically proven anti-aging therapeutics and products.

If you are looking for an individualized game plan and excellent results, call the experts at the Center for Plastic Surgery at 417-875-3246.

417-875-3246

417plasticsurgery.com

3555 S. National Ave., Suite 501 Springfield

Dr. Robert Shaw, Dr. Connor Barnes and Dr. Carl Price

...aging is a treatable condition, not a foregone conclusion.

with Dr. Robert Shaw, Dr. Connor Barnes and Dr. Carl Price

Q&A

with Dr. Abigail Fincel

What do you recommend to patients to be their best?

Come see us every six months! Also, it’s important for patients to be involved in the treatment process and just as dedicated to their dental care as we are. It’s a team effort.

How do you deliver your personal best to clients?

I strive every day to deliver the care to people that I would want for my family or myself. I love engaging my patients and educating them about what is going on while explaining things in terms that everyone can understand.

Why did you choose to go into your current profession?

I chose dentistry because of the combination of interaction with people and modern science. My job is really just about spending time with people and using this unique skill to care for others and help people with their oral health.

Most of iTooth’s patients are striving to be their best selves by enhancing their esthetics, maintaining or improving function and preventing long-term problems.

Dr. Lance Robbins and Dr. Abigail Fincel understand that teeth have many different purposes that are all important; the appearance of a smile can mean just as much as the function.

iTooth combines the latest technology with a welcoming environment and amazing team members. From the moment guests walk into iTooth until the

time they walk out, they’re treated like family. iTooth is not just about comfort and pampering. Their desire is to put a great smile on every guest’s face and make sure they have the best oral health possible.

Dr. Robbins and Dr. Fincel encourage everyone to get the smile and oral health they need and deserve by having regular visits. From routine checkups and implants to full mouth restoration and the latest in cosmetic dentistry, the team at iTooth’s desire is to put a smile on every face.

Dr. Abigail Fincel

iTooth’s desire is to put a great smile on every guest’s face and make sure they have the best oral health possible.

with Dr. Louis Mire

What’s the most important thing for readers to know about your business?

Our goal is to utilize regenerative medicine to improve the quality of life of as many people as possible without the use of drugs or surgery.

Your best self starts from within. Are you tired of the constant chronic pain, weary from the impact of limited mobility and tired of addictive pain medication? Attack your pain from a new angle at QC Kinetix where board-certified providers like Dr. Louis Mire and Candace Boyle, RPA-C, utilize regenerative medicine to improve quality of life without the use of drugs or surgery for their patients. The team at QC Kinetix has years of experience across the world that ultimately led them to practicing alternative methods of treating injuries.

QC Kinetix is proud to offer effective and fast-acting regenerative medical solutions in Springfield and Branson, MO. Their tar-

What do you recommend to patients to be their best?

Stay active, daily walking, eat and hydrate well, supplements to maintain well-being, pull back on activities that cause strain or pain, and get adequate rest.

geted treatments are relatively pain-free and non-invasive and are ideal for people suffering from aches and pains. These treatments result in fast healing without the risk of infection or extensive blood loss and adverse reactions that typically accompany surgery. Our natural treatments are ideal for people suffering from: knee, shoulder and elbow pain, pain due to sports injuries, wrist, ankle and hip pain, joint pain due to arthritis, lower back, foot/hand, finger/ toe, tendon, ligament and muscle pain. The best part about not having surgery to help your body relieve pain naturally? There is no significant recovery or downtime after the treatments themselves and pain gradually subsides in the coming months.

Why did you choose to go into your current profession?

It’s exciting to be part of something that has so much potential, which is natural and complements and promotes the body’s natural healing process well.

417-213-4261

qckinetixmo.com

5571 Gretna Rd., Suite B | Branson

4955 National Ave., Unit B | Springfield

Dr. Candace Boyle, PA

Dr. Louis Mire, MD

With regular maintenance, you can expect long-lasting reduced pain and inflammation.

417-551-4541

bellamedici.com

2209 Petrus Circle | Ozark

N}o one should ever let insecurities hold them back from being their best self! The professionals at Bella Medici Medical Spa help their clients find their confidence every day.

Physician-owned and operated, their team of highly trained medical professionals combines advances in technology with years of expertise to give clients their dream physique. Services include facial injectables, non-surgical facelifts, bioidentical hormone replacement, enhancements, medical weight loss, laser treatments and more.

Bella Medici Medical Spa is a one-stop-shop that is sure to help you become your best self. Call to schedule a free consultation!

417-890-7378

nuessencespa.com

1319 E. Republic Road Springfield

{This Mother’s Day, Nu Essence Spa invites you to treat yourself —or the special mother in your life—to a spa day. Spring is for growth, renewal and beauty—and who deserves it more than the women who care for their families, their businesses and their communities?

Nu Essence Spa offers a wide range of services, from manicures and lashes to facials and massage. With a staff of over 40 professionals, it is easy to get multiple services done during one visit to this locally owned retreat! Head on over, put on that plush robe and sink into relaxation with Nu Essence Spa in Springfield.

Misty Denevan, NP; Christine Gosch, M.D.

{417-882-4432

Suntancity.com

6 locations across Springfield, Nixa & Ozark

Summer is almost here and you can get a jumpstart on a natural looking glow at Sun Tan City. Sun Tan City is a locally owned and operated company that is part of a leading brand in the Indoor Tanning Industry. They take pride in training their team to offer customized recommendations in a clean and inviting atmosphere with an array of services such as UV Tanning, Red Light + UV Combo Tanning, Custom Airbrush Spray Tans, Onsite Private Events and Teeth Whitening. Feeling your best can start with feeling confident in your own skin. At Sun Tan City you can be confident and let yourself shine!

Front

{417-885-1370

vanessa-holt.square.site

1722 S. Glenstone Ave., Suite GG

Springfield

What do wax, thread and IPL have in common? All are options for hair removal at The Smooth Edge in Springfield! They also utilize Cryoskin 4.0 treatments for body contouring and fat cell destruction. Looking for a solution for acne, discoloration, fine lines or wrinkles? The Smooth Edge is one of only 50 locations in the US to offer Plason, a treatment using an advanced plasma technology to remove bacteria and aid in transdermal absorption within the skin. Not only does it stimulate skin regeneration, but it also boosts collagen for clearer, healthier and firmer skin. Call 417-885-1370 today to start feeling and looking your best!

Vanessa Holt

Back Row: Joycie Martinez, Skylar Priest, Jen Stewart

Row: Kristin Bargas, Maddie Tucker, Barkley, Stephanie Brewer, Shaely Smith

417-660-2856

vitalitycounseling.online

5240 N. Town Centre Dr. #102A | Ozark

{Experience a different kind of therapy. In visiting Vitality Counseling and Wellness, clients experience change during their sessions utilizing interventions developed through extensive clinical research. The key? Their methods are experiential in nature. You don’t just receive information, you learn to navigate, process and use your emotional experience to live with more depth as a person and in your relationships. When speaking to the most important thing to know about them, owner Christa Rupar said, “We want to be a safe place for our clients, both individuals and couples. We are competent and we can help with whatever you might be struggling with or needing to make sense of.”

Christa Rupar, LPC; Joe McKinney, LCSW

outside

still as a STATUE

Dominion Gardens & Arboretum is the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll. Read more about this hidden oasis on p. 62.

Photo by Brandon Alms

Happy Camper

Warm days of spring provide the ideal weather to soak up the sunshine and enjoy cool nights around the campfire. These 417-land campsites are perfect for springtime camping.

BY JO JOLLIFF

BLISS SPRING CAMPGROUND

Located about 2 hours 45 minutes east from Springfield

Located in the Irish Wilderness, you can see the full beauty of the Ozark Mountains coming back to life with the warm weather in lush forests with crisp, fresh air. The Ozark National Scenic River and backroads in Fremont are the perfect pit stops in your camping stay. Incredibly picturesque and a popular go-to camping spot.

MERAMEC CAVERNS LAJOLLA NATURAL CAMPGROUNDS

Located about 2 hours 30 minutes northeast from Springfield Surrounded by vivid trees and flora along the Meramec River, this bustling campsite offers restrooms, picnic areas and a playground for kids to let your family camp with ease. Take in the beauty of this site on a riverboat ride and enjoy activities like touring the cave and taking a trip to the candy store.

DEVIL’S BACKBONE WILDERNESS CAMPGROUND

Located about 1 hour 40 minutes north from Springfield

Located within Mark Twain National Forest, Devil’s Backbone

Wilderness Campground is the perfect spot for taking in the beauty of spring. With creeks, rivers, natural springs and miles of trails to explore you won’t run out of beautiful views of the Ozarks springing back to life.

HAWN STATE PARK CAMPGROUNDS

Located about 4 hours northeast from Springfield

Here campers can take in the beauty of spring from above on sandstone canyons and cliffs and still enjoy the comfort of electrical outlets, hot showers and picnic areas. Located west of Ste. Genevieve, this is the perfect location for hiking along graceful streams alongside lush forests and wildlife.

Photo by Jeff Rose

Dominion Gardens & Arboretum

Pat and John Horner’s stroll garden on Historic Walnut Street is a labor of love that they share with the public.

BY TESSA COOPER

Acentury-old home with a double lot near the center of Springfield is a rarity, but Pat and John Horner are the fortunate owners of one. When the couple purchased their home and its adjoining parcel of land in 2016, they had several choices on what to make of their lot. They could have kept this precious piece of real estate to themselves or built another home to turn a profit. Instead, they transformed it into Dominion Gardens, a 1.25-acre park that is open to the public to enjoy.

Pat and John got the idea to create this strolling garden within their neighborhood after visiting Seattle, where small public parks nestled in neighborhoods are a common sight. “We

thought that to just keep it to ourselves and try to keep people out would be kind of selfish,” says John. “If you get something like this, why not let other people enjoy it?”

An iron gate with ornate scrollwork and a sign that says “Visitors Welcome” are some of the first visions that greet guests as they enter from historic Walnut Street. Beyond the gate, a paved strolling path that spans ⅛ of a mile wraps around a patinaed bronze fountain (pictured opposite) imported from Europe, and 85 trees, 35 shrubs and 125 perennials are there for your viewing pleasure.

Aside from just seven of the 85 trees, none of these touches of beauty were there prior to Pat and John’s ownership of the lot. They had

Guests from all around the 417 region use Dominion Gardens for dog walking, picnicking, reading and small gatherings.

Photo by Brandon Alms

The bronze fountain at the center of Dominion Gardens is a major focal point of the property. The European-made fountain has a time-worn patina and incredible detail. The Horners found the fountain through an online listing from a merchant in Florida.

room to work with after doing some necessary clearing, so they asked Tulsa-based landscapers at R.L. Shears Company, P.C. to prepare the initial conceptual landscape plan. The couple hired local landscapers to plant many of the trees and shrubs, but they have added several with their own two hands as well.

John’s brother owns Ozark Custom Engravers, so John commissioned him to make signage throughout the garden. Some of the signs are educational, and some contain inspiring scripture verses and quotes. One of the signs displays a Robert Breault quote: “I sit in my garden, gazing upon a beauty that cannot gaze upon itself. And I find sufficient purpose for my day.” Pat and John placed benches throughout the park for that very reason. “People will come out here and sit around that fountain and just ponder,” John says.

Photo by Brandon Alms

a gardener’s MUST-DO

Don’t miss the small town of Mansfield’s big festival! Enjoy live music and local food and everything gardening at Baker Creek’s Spring Planting Festival.

BY ADESYN SHELTON

Get your garden growing and visit the Spring Planting Festival at Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds in Mansfield (rareseeds.com). Though tucked away in an old-fashioned pioneer village, this festival brings in thousands of gardeners, farmers and craftspeople annually. The two-day celebration features unique vendors, live music, national speakers and of course, heirloom seeds.

Baker Creek is North America’s largest heirloom seed company, and their colorful stock is updated every year. Go on a garden and greenhouse tour for a behind-the-scenes peek and learn what heirloom gardening is all about. Whether you are planning out your backyard garden for the first time or twentieth time, the gardens and vendors have new ideas, plants and accessories for everyone.

From the garden to the table, enjoy your share of locally grown food as well. Gourmet

chefs offer a delicious spin on your most classic go-to dishes. Like what you taste? Grab yourself some seeds or starters from vendors and create your own backyard pantry! Learn the ropes from the festival speakers, or talk to the food activists and organic growers vendors. If you still have some time left, you can even watch historic demonstrations and western reenactments.

SPRING PLANTING FESTIVAL

Sunday and Monday, May 14–15; 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds

2278 Baker Creek Road, Mansfield Free admission, $15 parking Visit rareseeds.com for parking passes.

Baker Creek’s Spring Planting Festival is the perfect time to purchase heirloom plants.

Break out of your dinnertime rut, and hit the road to try something brand new in nearby towns. The journey is as worthwhile as the destination for these four food-centric road trips. We share the scoop on what to order when you visit these worth-the-drive restaurants—and some snack stops and side trips to hit while you’re on the road so you can turn a meal into a road trip.

WRITTEN BY TESSA COOPER, KATIE POLLOCK ESTES AND JOY ROBERTSON WITH ADDITIONAL REPORTING BY GRACE CHIPLEY AND LEAH STIEFERMANN

FOR A SMALL-TOWN Surprise

SKYLARK CAFÉ

401 High Street, Leslie, Arkansas

870-447-2345, skylarkforever.com

SNACK STOP

MISTY’S CONOCO

6542 Highway 65, Leslie, Arkansas

If you don’t know, now you know: Fresh, homemade fried pies at a little roadside gas station are a thing in Arkansas, and you get bonus points if you run across a chocolate roll because Misty’s Conoco is often sold out of them by the afternoon. We did, however, run into master baker Rachael, who gave us her number and promised if we called ahead she’d put some back for us next trip.

Well, if this isn’t the cutest little place you ever did see. Just a couple hours south of Springfield, in Leslie, Arkansas, a modest little house sits just a jog off Hwy 65. Whimsical turquoise and pink colors capture your attention right away, as does the message on the sign: Skylark Café, A Place for Food and Friends.

Owners Joy and Denver Ellis have clearly poured their heart and soul into the historic house Joy purchased in 2009 at age 20. She and her sister initially envisioned a bookstore here, but sometimes visions change, and we’re glad they did. Joy and Denver met while waiting tables in Austin, Texas, in 2008 where she was interning at a not-for-profit and he was studying at Le Cordon Bleu. Joy returned to the Skylark while Denver sharpened his culinary skills everywhere from a restaurant in Vail, Colorado, to a food truck in Oklahoma City. They stayed in touch, and their passion for food and each other eventually brought them back together. After eloping on a Florida beach, they returned to Austin for a brief stint soaking up the food scene (fun fact: Joy worked for Sandra Bullock at her now-closed Bess Bistro) before deciding to make their home in Arkansas.

A Tex-Mex influence is on full display here. Denver smokes the meats in the smokehouse out back, so we owed it to ourselves to try the Green Chili Pork Nachos, loaded with pulled pork, green chili sauce, cheesy spinach dip, fresh pico and avocado. Our waitress was quick to fill us in on the daily specials, and when she mentioned Joy’s homemade Broccoli Cheese Soup wasn’t quite ready, we ordered a cup due to the sheer freshness of it. Good move. The chunks of broccoli had a slight char, which added to the richness of the flavor.

We opted to share the Cubano, piled with smoked pork, grilled pit ham, provolone, mustard and house-made pickles on pressed French bread. We paired it with the Marinated Tomato and Cucumber Salad. We also tried the Chopped Brisket Taco drizzled with house BBQ sauce, chipotle slaw, avocado and cilantro on grilled flour tortilla.

Choosing dessert was the toughest assignment. Joy is the pie chef, and she was pulling them hot from the oven when we arrived.

Two caught our eye: Blueberry Buttermilk and Chocolate Espresso. The waitress said the espresso had a kick and she wasn’t kidding. Next visit I intend to call ahead and order a whole one of each.

The Skylark is a happy place. The food is divine, and the space feels like a family home filled with art, heirlooms and love. Time your trip through Leslie for a lunch or dinner stop at Skylark you can thank us later.—Joy

Robertson

SIDE TRIP

THE LITTLE HILL SHOP

408 Walnut St., Leslie, Arkansas

Joy and Denver’s other passion is thoughtful giving. The Little Hill Shop has a stylish curated collection of local art, jewelry, accessories, teas, books, toys, candles, soaps and more. Joy and Denver began cultivating the 3-acre flower farm on their Skylark property in 2022. They sold bouquets at the restaurant last summer and one day hope for a pick-your-own operation. This year they plan to add a greenhouse and flower counter to The Little Hill Shop.

SNACK STOP

SERENITY FARM BREAD BRICK OVEN BAKERY & PASTRY SHOP

805 Highway 65 South, Leslie, serenityfarmbread.com

An incredible variety of organic and nonGMO sourdough breads, focaccia, cookies, cakes and pastries come straight from the oven, and have for 30 years. There’s a store on Main Street, but don’t miss the pastry shop ½ mile south of Leslie housed in a Sears, Roebuck & Co. kit house.

Photos by Josh Beecher

FOR A Chic Meal

CONIFER

321 Southeast Second St., Suite 100, Bentonville, Arkansas, 479-203-5999, coniferbentonville.com

It’s no secret that Bentonville, that ever-charming Arkansas town just two hours southwest of Springfield, is a dining hotspot. There is a huge variety of truly delicious places to eat, and you can’t go wrong rolling into this town hungry.

For this particular trip, your must-try dining destination is Conifer. With Chef Matthew Cooper at the helm, the crew at Conifer serves a 100% gluten-free menu of stylishly plated and creative dishes that focus on sustainability and include ingredients from lots of local producers.

If you’re a Bentonville dining aficionado, you may recognize Cooper’s name. This Arkansas native studied in the Pacific Northwest at Le Cordon Bleu and is the founder of another popular restaurant in town: The Preacher’s Son, an eatery located inside an old church.

Cooper himself has Celiac disease, so guests who do too can rest assured the kitchen takes gluten-free dining seriously. The result of Cooper’s gluten-free focus and his professional training is a

restaurant that serves seasonally changing dishes that are packed with creative flavor and look downright beautiful on the plate.

At press time, Conifer had just recently released their spring menu, and it featured so many bright springtime ingredients. Take the whitefish entree for example. It’s prepared and served with lime ricotta cheese, sesame, peas, cucumber, basil and mint for lots of super-green goodness.

The cast-iron cornbread small plate is a recurring item on the frequently changing menu, and it’s simply served with honey butter and salt. A risotto offering changes with the seasons too, this time featuring smoked carrot, crispy speck (that’s a lightly smoked cured Italian ham), egg yolk and goat cheese for a combination that’s as indulgent as it is fresh.

Conifer has a strong cocktail menu game as well. The Friendship is Magic cocktail is a rum-centric sip with both cinnamon rum and pineapple rum as centerpieces, fassionola syrup and the fresh burst of lime juice.

The dining experience is uniquely focused on small groups of two to four guests for both a meal and an atmosphere that feel intimate. (But don’t fret if you have a bigger crew. You can book the private dining room for that.)

—Katie Pollock Estes

SIDE TRIP BRIGHTWATER

801 Southeast Eighth St., Bentonville, 479-631-8600, brightwater.org

Located in 8th Street Market (a community-focused food hub), Brightwater is the culinary leg of NorthWest Arkansas Community College. But you don’t have to be a student to visit. There are Community Outreach Recreational Education classes for home chefs who want to learn the fundamentals from a pro. The next event is a Chinese Dim Sum class on June 2.

SIDE TRIP

CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART

600 Museum Way, Bentonville, 479-418-5700, crystalbridges.org

Next up is a stroll through Crystal Bridges. Bonus if you visit during the month of May: The exhibition Listening Forest by Rafael Lozano-Hemmer is on display in the North Forest. It features interactive, immersive installations of light, sound and projections that respond to your movements.

Photos by Brandon Alms, courtesy Conifer, Brightwater

SNACK STOP

YEYO’S multiple locations, yeyosnwa.com

Yeyo’s is a family-owned Mexican food spot that has gained a reputation for their stellar eats. You can get the experience at brick-and-mortar restaurants in both Bentonville and Rogers, but we recommend stopping for a snack at their little yellow food truck in Bentonville. Split an order of mix-and-match tacos with your dining buddy, and consider it an appetizer.

SNACK STOP

MARKHAM & FITZ

801 Southeast 8th St., Bentonville, 479-234-4658, markhamandfitz.com

Located in sweet little 8th Street Market like Brightwater, this is a true gem of a chocolate shop. They create experimental chocolate bar flavors with unexpected flavors, classic bars with familiar flavors, a fun chocolate-tasting kit with a rating sheet and four bars, pretty little truffles, boozy chocolate cocktails and more.

Photo by Brandon Alms, courtesy Shutterstock

FOR International Flavor

BAKER CREEK RESTAURANT

2278

Baker Creek Rd., Mansfield, rareseeds.com/our-restaurant

From the outside, Baker Creek Restaurant looks quintessentially Ozarkian, but on the inside, its decor and menu manifest a rustic Asian flair.

The farm-to-table vegan eatery is one of the main attractions at Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co.’s pioneer village and farm in Mansfield. The seed supplier stakes the claim as America’s largest heirloom seed company, and a visit to the restaurant will show you the flavorful possibilities of what you can make with what you sow.

In the kitchen, Chef Kenneth Walker and Restaurant Manager Martine Walker serve up plant-based dishes. The majority of the menu draws inspiration from Asian cuisine, and they grow about 90% of the produce onsite.

After seeing a small help-wanted ad in the Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co. catalog, the couple relocated to Seymour, Missouri, from Colorado Springs to take on these roles in 2022. They brought with them an extensive background in the food and beverage industry and work with founder Jere Gettle on each refined rotating menu.

On our visit, Martine greeted my husband and me and asked us to sit wherever we liked. She also offered us something to drink, which was our choice between canned

Spring Branch Kombucha or hand-crafted soda. The soda-of-the-day featured Japanese sumo oranges grown in one of their greenhouses. Forget any notions you have about typical artificial soda before your first sip because this drink tastes fresh and not too sweet. One key ingredient Kenneth adds is made-from-scratch Oleo Saccharum, a syrup made by letting orange peels sit in sugar. This process extracts the flavorful oils through osmosis.

He plates the entrees on handmade pottery, and a small side salad accompanies the meal. On the day we visited, the salad featured a miso-ginger dressing and black sesame seeds.

For our entrees, I went with the Taiwanese stir-fry with made-in-house noodles, which had an umami-forward flavor. My husband opted for the Indian curry vegetables, which is a drier, less soupy traditional Indian-style version.

We swapped bites of both and had to double-check that they really didn’t contain any chicken because the plant-based alternative is so convincing. While the featured veggies change with the seasons, green onion, chickpeas, sweet potatoes and bok choy were certainly the stars of our dishes.

Before you leave, stroll through the quaint pioneer village. Stop in Baker’s Flour Mill for a made-from-scratch cinnamon roll, which will be hard to resist as soon as the fragrance hits your nose. You can also peruse the vast selection of their signature heirloom seeds at the Baker Creek Seed Store.—Tessa Cooper

SIDE TRIP CEDAR GAP CONSERVATION AREA

Mansfield

If you’re heading to Baker Creek from the Springfield area and want to work up an appetite before your meal, hang a right on your way to lunch and stop at the Cedar Gap Conservation Area in Mansfield. Take a hike on a gravel path while the day is still young through the rolling verdant hills of the Cedar Gap Plateau, the second-highest point in Missouri.

SNACK STOP OLD DEPOT COFFEE CO.

100 N Commercial St., Seymour, 417719-5418, olddepotcoffee.com

Procure the energy for the day ahead with a pit stop at Old Depot Coffee Co. You can order your cup just the way you like it via a cappuccino, americano or flavored latte, all made with roasted- in-house beans. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, try the Wilma Bread made with shop owner Andrew Peters’ family recipe.

SIDE TRIP

LAURA INGALLS WILDER

HOME & MUSEUM

3060 Highway A, Mansfield, lauraingallswilderhome.com

About a 10-minute drive from Baker Creek Restaurant is writer Laura Ingalls Wilder’s last residence, which she dubbed Rocky Ridge Farm. Here, you can tour her home frozen in time, as she left it when she passed away in 1957. Take a chronological journey through her life and gaze at artifacts referenced in her books, like her Pa’s fiddle in the site’s museum

Photos by Brandon Alms, courtesy of Cedar Gap Conservation, Old Depot Coffee, Shutterstock

FOR BIG STEAKS On The Farm

GOBBLER’S ROOST

24327 E. Old Town Road, Nevada, 417-448-4853, gobblersroostrest.com

When we heard that a farm (which is also an event venue, a rentable cabin and a restaurant) offered a reservation-only five-course dinner that is popular enough with the locals to regularly sell out, we knew we had to check it out.

The spot is called Gobbler’s Roost, and if you’re a steak person—or anyone who likes comforting food in a homey atmosphere—you might want to check it out too. Recently 417 designer Grace Chipley and photographer Leah Stiefermann visited, and they both came home stuffed and happy.

The menu here leans heavily on steaks made from cattle raised on the farm—in fact, you can spy the cattle as you drive up on the dusty dirt road and gravel drive that lead to Gobbler’s Roost. But there are seasonal perks too. If you visit in the spring, you can see the restaurant surrounded by blooming flowers. And when morel mushroom season is in full swing, they serve a morel soup that regulars race in to get a taste of.

The menu when Grace and Leah visited featured an appetizer of alfalfa sprout, pickled carrot and candied bacon; broccoli-cheddar soup a simple tossed salad; an entree protein of your choice with green beans and a twice-baked potato; tiramisu for

dessert; and freshly baked bread. The soup was Leah’s favorite. It managed to be super-creamy without feeling heavy. She was a big fan of the candied bacon from the appetizer course as well. Not a steak-eater, she opted for the salmon entree. It was tasty, but you can tell steak is the owners’ passion. In fact, Grace raved about the KC strip steak, which came as an over-the-top huge portion (hello, leftovers!) but featured a delicious charred crust and a perfectly medium-rare preparation. It was the star of the meal for sure.

Leah and Grace agreed the homemade tiramisu was to-die-for, with an incredible flavor but not too much sweetness. They said it was the perfect ending to a big meal.

Inside, the dining room has a cabin vibe with decor that leans more homey than stylish. The space features little quirks like drinks menus presented on the sides of wine bottles (that include a decent wine selection plus cocktails and moonshine lemonade). And more than any other spot on our list, a meal at Gobbler’s Roost feels like dinner at an old friend’s house. Leah adored owners Kent and Kathy Abele and their super-sweet personalities that made her feel at home. And the farm setting made Grace feel like she was an old-timey ranch hand coming in from a long day’s work to a big home-cooked meal.—Katie Pollock Estes, Grace Chipley and Leah Stiefermann

SNACK STOP CREATOR DELIGHTS

1303 E. Broadway St., Bolivar, 417-326-8337, creatordelights.com

If you head to Gobbler’s Roost via Bolivar, make a stop for homemade sweet and fizzy sodas, Italian cream sodas, coffee drinks and more at this sweet little candy and drink shop. It’s the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth, and you know the kids will love it too.

Photos by Brandon Alms, courtesy of Creator Delights

SIDE TRIP

LAKEVIEW TRAIL

at Stockton Lake State Park, 19100 S. Highway 215, Dadeville

Walk off those sweet sips and work up an appetite for your huge steak dinner by taking a stroll around beautiful Stockton Lake. The Lakeview Trail offers peaceful and scenic views of the sprawling waterway. You might even spy a sailboat out on the water.

SIDE TRIP

DUNNEGAN MEMORIAL PARK

601 W. Forest, Bolivar

After you order your treat from Creator Delights, drive over to Dunnegan Memorial Park for a peaceful place to sip and enjoy it. The park is known for its small, scenic lake that lends lovely views. Dunnegan Memorial Park is also home to wildlife like geese, swans and even brightly colored peacocks.

Photos by Brandon Alms, Chuck Travers, Mike Kootz

Are Caling

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

ne early June day last summer, my family and I awoke on a mountainside just outside Estes Park, Colorado. We were greeted by cool morning air and a view of the Rockies from the edge of our off-the-grid campsite. Soon after, we were peeling off our layers under the hot sun while we watched a mama moose and her baby make their way through a pine-laden hillside inside Rocky Mountain National Park. An hour after that, we were bundled in coats and hats, grabbing frosty fistfuls from a waist-deep snow bank while the treeless Alpine tundra stretched out all around us. We had barely warmed back up before we found ourselves running full-speed alongside the Colorado River on a trail that wove through the Kawuneeche Valley, trying to get back to our car before an oncoming rainstorm soaked us. Once in the car, we drove across the park again, climbing back up in elevation and nervously eying the drop-offs on the edge of the mountain road while the rain turned to ice and then snow. When we got back to the other side of the park, the hot sun was beating down hard again as we sat outside and dug into some snacks.

A year later, my family still loves to talk about that wild day, when one drive across Rocky Mountain National Park and back let us experience vastly different ecosystems and weather events. We always joke about how the weather can change on a dime in Missouri, but it’s nothing compared to that day.

When my husband, Eli, and I started planning our summer 2022 vacation, we didn’t expect experiences like that. At first, we were only considering our usual go-to: a lovely, lazy beach week in Florida. I started thinking about my kids, Oliver and Eloise, and I realized I wanted to show them something grander—I wanted to show them more of the world’s beautiful places. And repeating that beach trip (even though we truly love it) wasn’t going to get us there. At 5 and 9 years old, Eloise and Oliver were rambunctious, wild, curious and adventurous. I wanted to plan a trip that would match that energy, give them lots of room to run free, and show them something brand new. And more than anything else, I wanted to spend time (good technology-free time) with them. Even though Eli and I had never embarked on an RV trip, we knew it checked all the boxes for the adventure we craved. So we blocked off our calendars and went for it.

That’s how we found ourselves crammed like sardines into a 20-foot travel trailer, making our way out west and loving every moment of it.

HOME BASE: COLORADO SPRINGS

It took us three days to drive to our first destination, Colorado Springs. We decided to keep our daily travel to 350 miles or less since we weren’t yet adept at setting up and tearing down our travel trailer, and we didn’t want to feel rushed for time. Along the way we marveled at the things out our windows, like the towering windmills and changing landscapes—even the forever flatness of Kansas charmed us.

We stopped for nights at KOA campsites in Topeka, Kansas, and Goodland, Kansas, before letting the third leg of the trip deliver us the rest of the way to Colorado.

Once in Colorado Springs, we set up camp and started to adventure. First thing on the agenda was a guided van ride to the summit of Pikes Peak. This 14,115-foot mountain that inspired the lyric “purple mountains majesty” was much too high for our crew to attempt to climb—and it was just the view we were after anyway. Our Rocky Mountain Ride tour guide warned us to dress for sudden weather changes and much colder temps atop the mountain. He wasn’t kidding. An incoming snowstorm brought our trip to a stop at about 12,000 feet, where we spent some time shivering and kick-

FIND YOUR HOME ON WHEELS

You don’t have to own an RV to get the RV trip experience. We rented ours from a super-nice guy in Republic using the website Outdoorsy.com. It’s like Airbnb, but for recreational vehicles.

At first we looked for a large, drivable RV, and there were plenty of options available to rent in that category. But in the end, we decided smaller was better for us and our first ever RV excursion. So we opted for a towable 20-foot travel trailer with a queen bed and a set of bunk beds—plus teeny tiny areas for bathroom, kitchen and seating. Some days, it felt a little tight for our rambunctious crew. But we committed to spending most of our time outside, and we made it work!

Pikes Peak isn’t only about making it to the top. There is adventure to be found the entire journey up, with pit stops along the way perfect for picnics, exploring and scenic family photos.

ing around in the snow waiting to see if the road would open. It did not. But the trip wasn’t a bust. We learned a lot from our excellent guide, enjoyed some time at the visitor’s center, watched hikers and skiers trudge around looking as tiny as ants way above us, and got a little bonus tour at the end because our guide wanted to get us to a spot where we could take in the mountain from a distance since we didn’t get to explore the summit.

Also from our base in Colorado Springs, we took a 50-minute road trip to Cañon City to visit Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, where we walked a footbridge all the way across a massive gorge (I am

not ashamed to say that this terrified me). Then we spent a day hiking around and climbing on the massive rock formations at Garden of the Gods, a place that feels otherworldly and truly awe-inspiring. We all felt like we were on another planet as we explored those red rocks. My kids loved to stand on top of the ones that were small enough for them to conquer, put their hands on their hips, stare out toward the horizon and beg us to take a picture of their serious explorer-esque poses.

In fact, they struck this pose at pretty much every place we visited in Colorado, on pretty much every boulder they found. Who knew the rocks would be what made the trip such a hit with these two?

ONWARD TO ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK

After several days in Colorado Springs, we packed our RV up again and headed north toward Estes Park, the oh-so-charming little town just outside Rocky Mountain National Park. We made camp at a spot called Hermit’s Hollow Campground, and my kids loved pretending that Estes Park was our city.

“We’re the famous Esteses,” was the lie they told through giggles to numerous kind strangers who graciously pretended to believe it.

Rocky Mountain National Park was a dream, with trails for every skill level (we stuck to short ones for our kiddos), four distinct ecosystems to experience as you climb in elevation, and picture-perfect spots like the wildly popular Bear Lake. It was crazy to walk Coyote Valley Trail and think about how the little, bitty Colorado River that flows through the Kawuneeche Valley is the same waterway that ultimately carved out the Grand Canyon some 650 miles to the southwest. Wild, right?

Although the weather at the lower elevations was delightful in early June (sunny skies, warm air, no need for anything more than short sleeves), our very favorite part of Rocky Mountain National Park was the more inhospitable Alpine tundra areas at the very highest elevations. It’s incredible to drive Trail Ridge Road, which crosses the entire width of the park from the towns of Estes Park to Grand Lake, and emerge out of dense evergreen forests and into the treeless expanse of the tundra. You feel like you’re on top of the world. Our visit was early in the summer, so there was still quite a bit of snow at those high elevations—plus bitter wind and

The trails weaving through Garden of the Gods are surrounded by awe-inspiring rock formations, some perfect for tiny explorers to conquer.

Hermit’s Hollow Campground (opposite) served as the home base during a stay near Estes Park.

Photos courtesy Shutterstock, by Katie Pollock Estes, Fox Run Art | Eve Nagode

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

If you are RVing to any National Park and want to camp inside the park borders, make sure you plan ahead. Reservations for most campgrounds open six months in advance, and at certain times of year they fill up fast. We chose to stay outside park limits, which opened up some options for us. The right campground for you depends on what you want: Are you looking for convenience, full hookups (electric, water and sewer), and perks like swimming pools and onsite restaurants? Or are you hoping to get away from it all to the wilderness where you might dry camp or boondock without the amenities?

We did a bit of both. On the road on the way to and from Colorado, we opted for full-hookup KOA sites because they are absolutely everywhere and easy to reserve. We could roll in, spend a night and roll out.

For a longer four-night stay in Colorado Springs, we got a spot at the full-service Mountaindale Cabins & RV Resort. It was just outside of town, far enough that it actually felt like camping (in fact, we encountered some black bear cubs while we were there and woke up one morning to see a little family of elk munching on some grass right outside our windows) but close enough that we could easily get to some fun sites.

During the second part of our trip, when we explored Rocky Mountain National Park, we stayed four nights at Hermit’s Hollow Campground 10 minutes from Estes Park. Hermit’s Hollow had zero hookups and was very remote and rustic, tucked up on the mountainside. The site we chose was enormous, with tons of room for the kids to run around, a rocky area where they could climb and our own personal sprawling vista that looked out over the mountaintops.

After that we stayed at Jellystone Park. It had the most amenities of all (full hookups, laundry, showers, swimming pool and more). But after the idyllic beauty of our spot at Hermit’s Hollow, Jellystone Park just didn’t feel very fun.

Trip Tip: Go Solar

Our travel trailer had solar panels, which made it possible for us to stay at off-the-grid places like Hermit’s Hollow while still maintaining some comfortable RV perks like air conditioning, running water (using our tanks), and fully functioning appliances.

The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park in Cañon City, Colorado, features a kind-of-scary footbridge across the gorge.

Photos by Katie Pollock Estes

biting cold. We tried to walk the Tundra Communities Trail to the very top, but we couldn’t handle the wind even though we were bundled. We took in what we could before driving to the Alpine Visitors Center to warm up with cocoa, hot tea and muffins. The cold might sound a little intense, but we truly couldn’t get over how interesting the tundra was, and to this day it’s the part of our trip that Eli, Oliver and I talk about the most. (Eloise, on the other hand, only has eyes for Garden of the Gods.)

The next day, we almost skipped the Alluvial Fan. At only about a ¼-mile, the paved path didn’t feel exciting enough to spend our time on. We knew it ended at a cascading waterfall that flows though a boulder field formed by a 1982 landslide—but we were feeling kind of meh about it. We were in the area, though, so we visited. It wound up being one of our top favorite spots in the park. The path was easy to navigate, meaning we didn’t expend all our energy on the walk. So the kids had plenty of oomph left in them to climb around on and slide down the sides of boulders of all shapes and sizes. We spent the whole morning there, taking in the mountains rising up around us on all sides and enjoying the sound of the water rushing beside us.

JUST TAKE THE TRIP

This all sounds so magical, right? Like everything went perfectly?

Well, no. We had some hiccups. We weren’t able to ride the gondolas across Royal Gorge because of extreme wind. I got a bit of altitude sickness. The solar pooped out on the RV when we were boondocking at Hermit’s Hollow Campground, and we spent one very cold electricity-free night surrounded by condensation-soaked windows. But it was one night. The next day, we were due to switch to

a campground with full hookups anyway. We made the most of it all, and everything worked out. I only remember one day when the close quarters in the RV got the best of us (and by “us” I mean “me” because I was 100% the grumpy one), and the kids had surprisingly few bickering battles.

I think it all worked out so well because we just decided to go with it. We knew before we left

Estes Park, Colorado, is full of shops and eateries to discover with a beautiful mountain backdrop.

that we had no idea what we were doing, that we’d be crammed into a small space in that RV, and that we’d be learning as we went. We told ourselves we’d need to roll with the punches, and for some inexplicable reason, just saying it seemed to make it happen. We rolled with the punches, and we had so much fun. More fun, truly, that we’d ever had on vacation before.

This trip required us to be easy going. It required us to unplug from work and the hustle of life. It required us to be physically close all day, every single day. And we embraced

the heck out of it. The result was two weeks packed with new sites, new memories and a new appreciation for unplugging. I’ll never forgot when Oliver told me, “Mom, if we can be happy in that little RV, maybe we don’t need our big house.” (We do, though. We do need our house and won’t be adopting an RV-allthe-time lifestyle change anytime soon.) But I really appreciated the sentiment. We left most of what we owned behind us to seek out gorgeous vistas together. Who needs all the stuff that clutters up life when you have that?

PACK IT UP

There are a few ways you could do this, and I went with the most intense option: I entered every single storage space in the RV in a spreadsheet and then listed out exactly what to pack in each one to maximize the space we had to work with. Or you could be a little saner and just wing it. Either way, my biggest tip is this: Don’t over-pack. For our two-week trip, we only packed about three outfits for each person and utilized campground laundromats. And aside from a few books and playing cards for lazy evenings and a stuffy or three for our daughter’s bed, everything else we packed was totally utilitarian. Don’t over-pack your food either! You can always restock at the grocery store.

Trip Tip: Create a Car Kit

Fill a little plastic tub with daily necessities for your away-from-camp adventures. With unpredictable weather and drastic temp changes throughout each day, we found it useful to pack coats, hats, gloves, sunscreen, bug spray, snack bars and extra water.

Bear Lake serves as a popular year-round destination in Rocky Mountain National Park. The Bear Lake Loop is perfect for hikers of all abilities, with a beautiful view of the Continental Divide and Hallett Peak—and their reflections on the water.

A simple, trusty travel trailer (above) carried the Estes family from 417-land across Colorado. Oliver and Eloise Estes (right) loved that they shared a name with Estes Park.

Photos by Katie Pollock Estes

Proudly Supporting Nixa

randy Bewley is passionate about her hometown of Nixa. her husband, Dusty, own multiple businesses, including Custom Homes, Bewley Construction and First Class rental ties. She is also a Keller Williams real estate agent and a mother For Bewley, each of these roles allows her to serve the Nixa community a variety of ways, showing her every day why Nixa is such place to live, work and raise a family.

As a business owner, Bewley is an ambassador with the Nixa Commerce. And as the mother of four sons in Nixa’s award-winning system, Bewley is committed to the well-being of each child. teers with the 4C Sertoma Club, a Christian County children’s club,” says Bewley, “is full of servants’ hearts.”

Bewley believes in taking care of 417-land’s local heroes— responders! She serves on the board of the Christian County 100 is chairman of the Nixa Vision 2040 PAC, which is dedicated to local police officers. She has also worked with local political campaigns, including serving as campaign manager for Nixa’s mayor, Jarad

“Nixa is a town full of wonderful people who step up for one another,” Bewley. With her commitment to Nixa’s growth and vitality, Brandy is proud to call Nixa home.

fall in love with NIXA

This month, we’re shining a light on Nixa. It’s located only 12 miles from Springfield and has a population of over 24,000. The town was incorporated in 1902 and is now known for its burgeoning restaurant scene, upcoming 14 Mill Market food hall and brand new Aetos Center For The Performing Arts. But those aren’t the only reasons to set aside some time to explore Nixa. Keep reading to find plenty of fodder to plan your day of fun.

NIXA, ALL YEAR LONG

NIXA SUCKER DAYS FESTIVAL

MAY 19–21

Enjoy a variety of delicious foods from more than 15 different food trucks while listening to the tunes from seven musical artists. Take your little ones to the carnival, visit the petting zoo or see the K9 show. The festival dates back to 1957 and has been a tradition for the Nixa community ever since!

All events are free. $10 wristband needed for rides; Friday 2–10 p.m, Parade 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.–10 p.m., Sunday, noon–6 p.m.; Downtown Nixa

MOVIES IN THE PARK ONGOING

You can watch movies at McCauley Park! You can watch Finding Dory on June 3, Elf on July 15, Shrek on August 12, Top Gun on September 19 and Trolls on October 7.

Free; all movies begin at dusk; McCauley Park, 701 N. Taylor Way, Nixa. For more information, visit nixa.com

SKY HIGH CELEBRATION

JUNE 24

Get excited about Independence Day a little early, and enjoy the entertainment, fun games and of course the fireworks show from Nixa High School’s football stadium. It’s hot summertime fun that’s not to be missed.

Free; Gates open at 6 p.m., Show at 9:30 p.m.; Nixa High School, 514 S. Nicholas Rd., Nixa. For more information, visit nixachamber.com or download the Experience Nixa App for updates.

CREEPIN’ AT THE CROSSROADS

OCTOBER 21

Bring your little ones to the Creepin’ at the Crossroads fall festival for some Halloween trick or treating, scrumptious food, fun games, live music and more!

Free; Times TBD; Downtown Nixa. For more information, visit downtownnixa.com.

food hall COMING SOON

The big buzz in Nixa is 14 Mill Market, a food hall slated to open this month if all goes according to plan. And we can’t wait to try it out!

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

One thing we’ve loved when visiting other cities is the food halls and culinary markets that bring a world of flavors to one spot. Now, 417-land is about to have a food hall of its own in the form of the brand new 14 Mill Market.

Developed by Rich and Leah Callahan, 14 Mill Market has been in the works since early 2021, and it has plans to open its doors this month if everything pans out as planned. It will be home to 10 interesting restaurant concepts, a variety of desserts, a full bar and even

outdoor spaces for entertainment and dining under the sky.

So what restaurants will be in those coveted spots? At press time, the list included outposts of Springfield-based spots Queen City Soul Kitchen, D’Vine Delicatessen & Wine, and Traveller’s House Coffee & Tea. You might also recognize Abby’s Acai Co., Not’Cho Ordinary Taco Co., Sno Biz, and Lindsay’s Kitchen Take & Make baked goods.

But there are brand new concepts as well. We’re super-excited to try Liege Love Waffle

Co, which will serve build-your-own sweet and savory liege waffles made with pearl-sugar dough and a variety of fun toppings.

And there’s MO Slider Co., which is offering (you guessed it!) tasty sliders and waffle fries. And Cody Davis from Ocean Zen is opening Fresh Poke, with a menu full of Hawaiian-style poke bowls and regularly changing special entrees as well.

To learn more about 14 Mill Market and the eateries that will be serving customers there, visit 14millmarket.com.

The building that houses 14 Mill Market features art by Samantha Cox.

THE PERFECT DAY IN NIXA hometown

Gather up the kids or a few good friends, and spend the day exploring some of the fun activities available in Nixa. There’s more to do in this fun town than you might realize, so dive in!

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

8:00 A.M.: EAT UP

Morning Day Cafe, 105 S. Main St., Nixa, 417494-5055, morningdaycafe.com

You’ve got to start the day with breakfast, so you can fuel up for your day of fun. Read more about this super-delish morning spot on p. 88.

10;00 A.M.: SHOP TIL YOU DROP

Sugar Cube Lane, 109 S Main St, Nixa, sugarcubelane.com

Luk Boutique, 111 S Main St, Nixa, lukboutique.com

Red Poppy Boutique, 103 S Delaware St, Nixa, redpoppyboutique.com

For your first two shopping stops, you don’t even need to get in the car. Both Sugar Cube Lane and Luk Boutique are on the same block as Morning Day Cafe. At Sugar Cube Lane, you can shop for darling baby, toddler and tween clothing in the sweetest styles. It’s great for birthday shopping too, since they have a selection

of toys on hand. A little farther down the block, Luk Boutique is home to women’s fashion in a variety of styles, as well as shoes, accessories and beauty products. Long-time favorite Red Poppy Boutique is just a super-quick 1/3-mile away. There, you can find great women’s fashion as well, plus jewelry from Kendra Scott for that perfect outfit finisher.

1:00 P.M.: TAKE A DIP  Nixa Aquatic Center, 701 N Taylor Way, Nixa

Nixa is home to an excellent aquatic center, and you’ll want to stop there for a swim if you have kids in tow. It features plenty of room to splash around, a zero-entry area great for smaller kids, and two twisting water slides for the more daring bigger kids.

BREWERY ON Co. Fremont Hills, Sawgrass Ave., Nixa, 4by4brewingcompany.com

away the afternoon local brew in hand your pals around you you enjoy the outdoor spaces at the new Fremont Hills location of Springfield-favor-

ite 4 by 4 Brewing Company. The spot has two huge indoor tap rooms, a massive outdoor seating area and plans for tons of outdoor activities at their spacious location.

6:00 P.M.: GATHER FOR DINNER

Piccolo, 107 West Aldersgate Dr, Nixa, 417374-7291, eatpiccolo.com

One of Nixa’s hottest dining spots is the super-popular Piccolo. Read more about their Italian flavors on p. 88.

7:00 P.M.: SEE A LIVE PERFORMANCE

Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 514 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa, nixapublicschools.net/aetos

End your perfect day in Nixa by taking in a national touring show at the new Aetos Center for the Performing Arts. The next two shows on the calendar are Silhouettes on May 13 (a shadow-dance company) and kid-favorite Madagascar The Musical on June 18.

small town

GREAT EATS

Nixa’s food scene is on fire these days, with old favorites and new flavors all serving delicious eats to hungry locals. Every one of these spots is worth a trip to Nixa to try.

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

its sweet decor to its bright and happy branding, this place oozes joy. And the menu is stellar. We love the Brekky Nachos, the (Kiss My) Quiche with spinach and roasted onions, and the #Bacon (a caramelized gouda potato cake topped with poached eggs, bacon and chives).

BROTHERS TACOS

562 W Mt Vernon St, Nixa, 417-725-6662, facebook.com/BrothersTacosSGF

The tacos here are, honestly, just too good. Like they’re in the “you will probably eat too many of these” level of good. But you need to try out the specials too. They come and go, and include tasty options like enchiladas suizas topped with tomatillo salsa, or enormously stuffed burritos smothered in green chili sauce.

GETTIN BASTED

606 W Mt Vernon St, Nixa, 417-374-7394, gettinbasted.com/nixa

PICCOLO

107 West Aldersgate Dr, Nixa, 417-374-7291, eatpiccolo.com

This Italian restaurant is reliably delicious, with dishes that lean toward the delightfully indulgent. We especially love the cheese tortellini pasta and the mozzarella-stuffed Balboa meatballs appetizer. Don’t skip dessert here; their cannoli are truly to-die-for.

BISTRO 160

1897 N Hwy CC, Nixa, 417-374-7171, nixabistro.com

From the owners of Prima’s Mexican, this breakfast and lunch cafe offers a variety of eats, from fluffy-crisp waffles to green chili omelets. Don’t miss the corned beef hash, or the super-delish huevos rancheros for a bit of Mexican flair.

ROCCO’S PIZZA

112 E Mt Vernon St, Nixa, 417-725-3000, roccospizzaofnixa.com

You really can’t go wrong with the New York–style pizza pies from Rocco’s Pizza. It’s always delicious and perfectly prepared. But one of our favorite things to get there is the Palermo calzone. It is stuffed with both mozzarella cheese and ricotta cheese, along with fat and juicy meatballs and spicy jalapeno.

MORNING DAY CAFE

105 S Main St, Nixa, 417-494-5055, morningdaycafe.com

We’re not sure it’s even possible to have a brighter start to your day than by grabbing your besties and getting breakfast at Morning Day Cafe. From

This Branson-based barbecue joint has outposts in a few other cities, Nixa included. We are nuts for just about everything here, but especially the barbecue-topped nachos and the pulled pork tacos that are both on the appetizer menu. If you’re a barbecue purist, though, opt for a wagyu brisket plate with classic barbecue sides.

HINODE

129 N Massey Blvd, Nixa, 417-374-7807, eathinode.com

The hibachi meals are the star at this Japanese eatery, and you can get them with a variety of protein choices from steak and chicken to calamari and salmon—or a combo of a couple options. The sushi is a hit too, especially the Lucky Finjo Roll.

Photos by Leah Stiefermann

 RE-IMAGINED CUISINE, 92

 STICK IT, 94

 A PIECE OF CAKE, 95

we meat AGAIN

The Wild Meat Burger is the perfect combination of elk, bison and wagyu beef served with red wine onions and American cheese. Find more dishes from Traza on p. 92.

Photos by Brandon Alms

ROOFTOP BITES

With a top-floor location and a chef from Tulum, Mexico, Traza Contemporary serves a chic menu packed with wordly flavors.

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES | PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS

A few dishes from Traza’s updated menu include colorful dishes like Duck in Black Garlic, Pistachio-Crusted Salmon, Guacamole Tulum and Three Moles Quail.

On the top floor of Farmers Park, Traza

Contemporary brings a chic dining experience to southeast Springfield. The dimly lit and well-decorated dining room has an upscale, moody, sexy vibe—and the menu is honestly pretty sexy too.

Traza is owned by Alejandro and Catherine Hernandez, who also own another popular south Springfield eatery: Catrina’s Modern Mexican. Executive Chef Eddy Saavedra is at the helm at Traza, and he comes to Springfield via Tulum, Mexico, bringing worldly flavors with him. The menu reflects that, and dishes come to the table beautifully presented, colorful and creative.

I dined at Traza shortly after they opened, along with my husband, Eli. Since then, the menu has undergone a big revamp, and most of what we ate is no longer available. You can read about the dishes and drinks we tried here in this story, and check out some of the new menu offerings in the photos to get a feel for what you can try if you visit now.

We started our meal with the scallop fumet appetizer featuring clam-coconut sauce, fresh herbs and salmon roe. The scallops were absolutely delicious—big, tender and perfectly seared. I could have eaten an entree’s worth of those beauties, which were served on scallop shells for a lovely presentation.

Eli was in the mood for something light and bright, so he ordered the burrata salad for his entree. It was a fresh and colorful meal that brought together a variety of textures and flavors in the form of fresh herbs, creamy avo-

cado, tender arugula, juicy tomatoes, crunchy cashews and pepitos and more. There were also indulgent little nibbles of sliced Spanish sausage. He enjoyed the flavors and felt like satisfied but not stuffed when he was finished.

I was in the mood for seafood, though, so I ordered the crispy sea bass entree. The fish was seared with crust of thinly sliced golden potatoes, and it was cooked perfectly: tender and delicately flaky. It came with a cauliflower puree that I loved almost as much as the fish. Delightfully seasoned and oh-so-smooth, this creamy side was irresistible.

We loved the cocktails we tried, and our favorite was by far the Mai Taime. This take on a classic mai tai was beautifully balanced and supremely sippable (I had two, in fact), made with Diplomatico rum, lime, orgeat and aperol. The Pink in Paradise was a fun fruity option too, with Casamigos Blanco, yuzu, grenadine, agave and grapefruit soda.

To cap off our meal, we ordered the restaurant’s blueberry cheesecake dessert. The cheesecake was swirled with blueberry, topped with fresh blueberries and blackberries, and served with a side of vanilla ice cream. It was a little on the sweet side for us—but hey, it’s dessert, right? The ice cream on the side was a fun touch.

A couple of dishes survived the menu update and are still available, like the beautiful-yet-comforting beef wellington and the impressive Traza Tomahawk (a 40-ounce beast of a steak served with red pepper sauce and chimichurri). Those were both dishes I was ey-

ing on my first visit but didn’t get a chance to try. Maybe I’ll taste them on my next visit. But honestly, the new Tiradito Scallops appetizer with clever ingredients like pop rocks and pineapple chips has sparked my curiosity the most. Either way, I’m sure my next visit will feature as many flavorful surprises as my first, and I am truly looking forward to it.

TRAZA CONTEMPORARY

2144 E. Republic Road, Suite B-401, Springfield, 417-530-2006, dinetraza.com

Tuesday–Thursday, 4–9 p.m.

Friday–Saturday 4–10 p.m.

$$$

 Two super-pretty cocktails from Traza’s new menu update are the Lychee Bluze and the Botanical Basil Fizz.

 The Guacamole Tulum is a appetizer that’s as beautiful as it is tempting.

 Traza’s new menu features a variety of textures and flavors in the Tiradito Scallops, made with herbed scallops, coconut and mint sauce, jicama, dill, pop rocks and pineapple chips.

GARDEN GRILLED CHEESE

So much gouda is caramelized into a crispy cheese skirt

pièce de résistance

The indulgence is brightened up with tomato, spinach and avocado.

Get Lucky

Fun treats and sips fill the menu at Lucky Cat Boba Tea & Taiyaki.

Boba tea is right there in the name at Lucky Cat Boba Tea & Taiyaki (3424 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield), but this spot is more than just colorful drinks. It offers a whole bunch of fun snacks too that you can’t find very many places in 417-land. My kids love to order the taiyaki when we visit. These waffle-like fish-shaped cakes are filled with all kinds of sweet things, like red bean, vanilla cream, Nutella and more—and they are always served warm and steamy. I love the taiyaki too, but the dongo are my personal favorite. These little skewers come with three little balls of multi-colored mochi, and they are delightfully chewy and just a little bit sweet. Paired with the passion-

fruit mojito boba tea with fresh mint and lime slices (I order it at 50% sweetness for a more tart than sweet experience), it’s a refreshing, delightful texture adventure and a perfect out-of-thebox snack.

—Katie Pollock Estes

Sensational Salsa

If you’ve ever eaten at Tortilleria Perches you’ve likely indulged in the restaurant’s signature salsa and dreamed about the delicious blend of tangy and savory flavors between visits. Dream no more; after high demand from the community, this Springfield staple has officially begun jarring its famous salsas. Jars contain the same iconic recipe created by none other than Maria Perches and include fresh ingredients full of flavor. Purchase it at a variety of local grocery stores including Harter House, Price Cutter, and Hyvee. Choose from 16 ounce bottles of Tortilleria Perches’ mild and hot salsas or a five ounce bottle of Tortilleria Perches’ hot sauce, and keep your eyes peeled for the restaurants iconic green sauce on shelves in the future.—Michelle

Lewis

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, Brandon Alms

THE VEG

THE CHEESE

THE SAUCE House-made pesto is the

[WORTH IT ]

a true love

TREAT

The passionfruit cheesecake from European Café has our whole heart.

It doesn’t matter how many times I find new and exciting desserts on new and exciting menus around town. It doesn’t matter how delicious they are or how much I love them. There is one pint-size sweet treat that I go back to again and again and again. The passionfruit cheesecake from European Café (207 Park Central East, Springfield) has my heart, and it’s the one I always crave. A lovely shortbread-ish crust is topped with cheesecake that has a delicate texture, a creamy tang and the tropical burst of my favorite dessert flavor: passionfruit. And not only is the flavor incredible, but this treat is downright beautiful. I’m not exaggerating when I say I’m in love with it. What can I say; we were meant to be.—Katie Pollock Estes

A SUMMER STAPLE

Located in Central Park in Carthage, Food Truck Friday offers a smorgasbord of local food trucks and vendors on the second Friday of the month. Relax after a long work week as you enjoy live music and try a dish from some of the unforgettable food trucks. Here are three of our favorites.

BY MICHELLE LEWIS

LAE’S AUTHENTIC EGGROLLS

facebook.com/LaesAuthenticEggRolls

Although Lae’s Authentic Eggrolls may have a small menu, their signature handrolled eggrolls pack a flavorful punch. We recommend the Chicken Eggrolls for a classic.

GHETTO TACOS

ghettotacos.com

Serving authentic street tacos, Ghetto Tacos creates the perfect blend of flavors. After ordering your choice of meat, be sure to pair your tacos with the signature Mexican Street Corn.

HAILE YEAH BBQ

facebook.com/haileyeahbbq

Haile Yeah BBQ has perfected the art of BBQ and serves up some mean recipes. Try the pulled pork nachos, crispy tortilla chips piled high with pulled pork, queso and of course BBQ sauce.

Photo by Brandon Alms, courtesy Ghetto Tacos

all BUTTERED UP

Butter boards, a unique take on charcuterie boards, are sweeping social media due to the satisfying process of building them. While popular videos may make this seem like an art form, these delicious boards are actually quite easy to make and our locally sourced ingredients make it a 417-land-centric treat.

BY JO JOLLIFF

Though it may sound obvious, to create your butter board you start with butter. To keep it local, we use locally produced butter from Pleasant Valley Farm at The Little Farm Store (417929-1338; littlefarmstore.com) Use a rounded butter knife to spread the butter on a decorative charcuterie board of your choice. The easiest (and most aesthetically pleasing) method is by starting in one corner and spreading the butter down in even strokes, to create a fish scale effect across the board. Then evenly drizzle honey over the butter. We recommend wildflower honey from Soozeebeez (200 E. Commercial St., Springfield; 417-860-7773; soozeezbeez.square.site) and habanero honey from Bee-Transformed Honey (307 W. Glenwood, Springfield; 417-869-

0233; bee-transformed.com) The great thing about butter boards is that if you’re serving a wide range of guests, with some who prefer a mild flavor and others looking for the habanero punch, you can section it off and add raw honey to one side with habanero on the other.

Next, add your herbs and spices, and the same rules apply here; feel free to only add particular seasonings to particular spots. Generously sprinkle on a variety of your favorite flavors from Chabom Tea & Spices (209 E. Commercial St., Springfield; 417-719-4311; chabomteaspice.com) We recommend a base of red pepper flakes, coriander, cardamom or fresh herbs like cilantro. For a little extra pizazz add edible flowers from Maypop Flower Farm (maypopflowerfarm.com) or Schaffitzel’s

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Your next Pizza Night is calling.

Like a snowflake, each butter board is its own one-of-a-kind creation. Take all of the guidelines as suggestions—your guests will enjoy it more when you put your own personal spin on it.

Greenhouse (schaffitzelsflowers.com) to amp up the butter with beautiful colors and a unique, fresh flavor.

Finally, pick your favorite bread. If you want to stay local, try a loaf of dark rye or rosemary bread from Ava Bread (avabread.com), which is sold at MaMa Jean’s Natural Market. Cut your bread into bite-size pieces and set it beside your butter board so guests can grab a piece and swipe it along the butter for the perfect piece of buttered bread.

Dinner at home doesn't have to be boring. Find avorful pizzas, local chef staples and more in just a few clicks.

DINING GUIDE 417

 Restaurant Listings, 98

 7 Good Things, 101

$=Under $10

$$=Mostly $10–20

$$$=$20 and up

 =serves breakfast

 =serves lunch

 =serves dinner

• =outdoor seating

V =live music

 =meeting space

• =serves alcohol

• =smoke free

☎ = reservations recommended

• =wheelchair accessible

WIFI =free wifi

K=offers kids menu

The 417 Magazine Dining Guide is a select list of restaurants in southwest Missouri. Implicitly, the magazine’s editors recommend all these restaurants. The Dining Guide is not related to advertising, and 417 Magazine doesn’t accept freebies in exchange 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 “7 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.

FINE DINING

AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING

1908 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-567-3463, avanzareitaliandining. com Northern Italian Pasta is always a hit at Avanzare, a longtime Springfield favorite. Veal dishes are top-notch at this Italian eatery, but you’ll have to pick the right night, as they’re only served once or twice a week. Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak and the pasta with seafood in a spicy tomato-based sauce. Indulge in the luscious chocolate torte for dessert. Open Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m.–3 p.m.; Mon.–Thu., 5–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 5–11 p.m.; Sun., 5–9 p.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. Also on the menu is pizza, wagyu steak and more. Open Tues.–Thu., 4–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 4–10 p.m. $$$

CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR

1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417823-8383. Steak and seafood. The former Touch Restaurant & Oyster Bar retains some standby dishes like bacon-wrapped dates and chicken Bijan in its new iteration as Char Steakhouse & Oyster Bar (owned by the same people), but offerings of Waygu steaks, lamb shank and fish dishes up the ante. Indulgent lobster potato puree and crispy flash-fried Brussels sprouts round out the side dishes, and raw oysters, ceviche and bone marrow pique the appetite as starters. Be sure to sample Char’s cocktails, or something off the extensive wine list. Open Mon.–Thu., 4–11 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 4 p.m.–midnight; Sun., 4–9 p.m. $$$ 

CHATEAU GRILLE

415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-243-1777, chateauonthelake.com.

Contemporary American . Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Chateau Grille 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, flying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award-winning menu. Open daily during the regular season; weekends only during the off-season. $$$

CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AN GRILL

815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com. Contemporary American This Joplin hot-spot serves some fantastic seafood, and we’ve enjoyed everything we’ve tried there. The Chilean sea bass is a specialty. Try some of the small plates, like

portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. There are also some great entree salad options on the menu to choose from. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $$–$$$ 

FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR

314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8624444, 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! They are so delicious and such a bargain.) Open for dinner Mon.–Thu., 5–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat., 5–11 p.m. Red Room open 4 p.m. to bar hours. $$$  WIFI • • • K  ☎

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, forest panzanella salad and delightful rosemary pound cake. Be sure to order one of the delicious cocktails—especially the refreshing Mill Pond. Open Weds.–Sat. 5–10 p.m. $$$  • • •  ☎ •

GILARDI’S

820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8626400, gilardisonwalnut.com Northern Italian . Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little Italian restaurant that makes a wonderful date-night spot. Don’t miss the amazing meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce served over goat cheese polenta. And be sure to dine in the outdoor seating area that was expanded last year. Open Mon.–Sat., 5–10 p.m. $$$  WIFI • • •  ☎ •

HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR

3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417887-0077, harunosushi.com. Japanese . The Oh My God roll and the Sex and the City roll are trademarks here. If simple nigiri is your style, you’ll love the tuna sampler. Be sure to venture off the sushi menu and try some of the delectable entrees as well. Don’t miss the bibimbap or the fresh mango-jalapeño ahi tuna entree. If you love a spicy bite, make sure you try the seafood soup. Pair it with a little bit of nigiri or one of the spot’s tasty maki rolls. Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m.–2 p.m., 4:30 p.m.–midnight; Sat., 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m.–midnight; Sun., 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m. $$–$$$

HARVEST RESTAURANT

8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville. Contemporary American. 417-830-3656. Dining at Harvest Restaurant is an experience like none other in 417-land. The owners, Craig and Tamara Von Foerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper-seasonal, local cuisine. Although the menu is constantly in flux, Craig is known for his mushroom risotto and scallop trio. If either of these dishes is on the menu when you visit Harvest, order them immediately. Open Thu.–Sat., 5:30–9:30 p.m.; Open Sunday for brunch, 11 a.m.–

2 p.m. $$$

JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB

1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-886-5466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com. American steakhouse. We 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. And if you love a good salad bar, Jimm’s has one of the best. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the off-menu smothered rib-eye for a little decadence. Desserts are always a treat here as well. Open Sunday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat.

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. It has the same owners as Haruno, which is famous for their incredible rolls—so you know it’ll be delicious! Don’t miss the restaurant’s black cod or sea bass entrees with delicious wasabi risotto. They are just as impressive as the sushi rolls! There are some great cocktail and appetizer options here as well. Lunch Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m.–2 p.m.; Dinner Mon.–Thu., 5 p.m.–midnight; Fri.–Sat., 5 p.m.–1:30 a.m. $$–$$$

LA GALETTE BERRICHONNE

143 E. Main St., Fordland, 417-738-2112, rolandparny.com. Find fine French cuisine just 20 minutes from Springfield in Fordland at La Galette Berrichonne, known for multi-course dinners events. Be sure to check for upcoming meals and make a reservation before you go. The food is stellar! And so are the pastries. Stop by the adjoining (and quaint) bakery and cafe. The desserts alone are worth the trip, including the cream puffs. Reservations recommended for dinner. Open Fri.–Sat., 9 a.m.–3 p.m.; Sat., open for dinner. $–$$

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. If you like to start your meal with greens, the Caesar salad is a must-try; it comes topped with delicious fried anchovies. Also, don’t miss the fresh

Hawaiian ahi tuna served on a Himalayan salt block: delightful! Don’t sleep on the prime rib dip sandwich, either. Open daily, 6:30 a.m.–2 p.m., 5–10 p.m. $$$

METROPOLITAN GRILL

2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8894951, metropolitan-grill.com. Eclectic fine dining

Known for its delectable flash-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 excited about—served in a familiar space. The cocktails are delicious, the wine menu is wonderful and the service is always top-notch. Open Mon.–Thu., 3–10 p.m.; Fri., 3–11 p.m.; Sat., 4–11 p.m. $$$  •  • • ☎ • WIFI K

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE

3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-886-3700, nicolasspringfield.com. Italian. This restaurant serves a delicious sea bass. Try the lumache: fresh snails sauteed in garlic butter and baked with Parmesan cheese. Gluten-free pasta and pizza are available. The chicken parmigiano is a highlight definitely worth ordering. The Nicola’s pizza here is also super tasty, and the dessert menu is impressive. Enjoy the spacious outdoor patio when the weather permits, or belly up to the bar for happy hour with friends. Open Mon.–Sat., 4:30 p.m.–close. $$–$$$  WIFI • •

OCEAN ZEN PACIFIC RIM RESTAURANT

4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-889-9596, eatoceanzen.com. Asian fusion. Try Chilean sea bass or the macadamia nut chicken. We particularly love ordering the Hawaii Five-O sushi roll; with seared rare tuna and a pineapple salsa, it’s a tasty 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., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; bar closes at 11 p.m.; happy hour 3–6 p.m. and last two hours of operation. $$–$$$   •

THE ORDER

at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-832-1515, theordersgf.com. New American. Step inside the Vandivort Hotel and turn left for a downtown-Springfield dining experience not to be missed. The atmosphere is trendy but relaxed while the food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from-scratch kitchen. Try Executive Chef Calvin Davis’s spin on cashew chicken or the market fish specials that change daily. Brunch is excellent here too. Open for dinner Mon.–Sat. 5–10 p.m., Sun. 5–9 p.m.; brunch Sat.–Sun. 9 a.m.– 2p.m.; bar open daily 5 p.m.–close. $$–$$$   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 enjoy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The fried chicken

Crab Rangoon

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 5 p.m. Open Tue.–Sat., 5–9:30 p.m. Wine cellar and Buffalo Bar open later. Brunch served Sun., 9:30 a.m.–2 p.m. $$$

PROGRESS

2144 E. Republic Road, B101, 417-799-9388, springfieldprogress.com. New American. Roasted cauliflower, beautifully prepared seafood, dryaged steaks and lots of delicious and veggie-forward dishes lead the way at Progress where they encourage you to come as you are. Don’t miss out on a tasty brunch every weekend, too. The menu changes with the seasons, and it always includes a new carrot dish that creates flavors you never knew you could experience with that humble orange vegetable. Progress also has a lovely patio if outdoor dining is your thing, and the ever-changing cocktail is menu is known for its variety of well-balanced drinks that pair perfectly with your meal. Lunch Tues.–Fri. 11 a.m.–2 p.m. (to-go only), dinner Tues.–Sat. 5–10 p.m., brunch Sat.–Sun. 9 a.m.–2 p.m. $–$$

RETRO METRO

2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-720-1708. This throw-back concept brings back decades of old Metropolitan Grill favorites. The aptly named Retro Metro serves some of Metropolitan’s greatest hits, including flash-fried spinach and chicken spiedini, as well as new flavors from Chef Tiny. Dishes are available via drive-thru, too. Open Tues.–Sat. 3–10 p.m. $$$  WIFI • • •

CASUAL DINING

ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8831234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417213-8631; bowlandybs.com. American fare. This is a great spot for a full night of fun plus food all 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. Bonus: There’s a full-service bar here, too. If you’re planning a big event, you can even rent out the whole place and get in-house catering. Yum! Springfield open Sun.–Thu., 10 a.m.–midnight; Fri.–Sat., 10–1:30 a.m. Branson open Mon.–Thu., noon–8 p.m.; Fri., noon–10 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS

2144 E. Republic Road, Suite E120, Springfield, 417-881-9736; aviarycafe.com. Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes—which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there’s so much more besides crepes. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French flair. Be sure to try dishes infused with Lavender Falls flavors, like the lavender honey

and goat cheese appetizer that is served with crisp crostini and fresh berries. You can also buy some Lavender Falls products, like lavender simple syrup, at the restaurant. Open Mon.–Thu. 8 a.m. –3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 8 a.m.–3 p.m. and 5–9 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $–$$

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 22 appetizers and 50 burgers on the menu at Bair’s, plus plenty of non-burger sandwiches, great chicken wings and salads. We love the burger that is topped with ranch dressing and fried pickles. So indulgent and delicious! For an appetizer, dig into a plate of fried green beans or spicy cheese curds. Hours vary by location. $

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. If suds aren’t your thing, try a seasonal cocktail or one of the draft alcoholic punches. The extensive food menu includes flavor spins on cookout favorites, like juicy cheddarwurst brats, salty shoestring fries with dipping sauces, and kimchi-spiked fried chicken sandwiches. The beer hall also has a faux turf lawn available for rent for games of bocce, bags and more. Open Tue.–Thu., 11 a.m.–midnight; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–1:30 a.m.; Brunch Sat.–Sun., 11 a.m.–3 p.m. $$

BIGSHOTS GOLF

1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-427-3040, bigshotsgolf.com. American. Come for the golf but stay for the good eats. There are great burgers (like the double smash burger with Hatch green chilis), pizza, wings and lots of shareable apps like the crispy red chili cauliflower. Don’t miss the fun cocktails. We loved the Bee Sting, made with tequila, agave, grapefruit, lime juice and jalapeño. So good! Be sure to stop by for brunch on the weekends. Open Mon.–Thu. 10 a.m–11 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.–midnight, Sat. 9 a.m.–midnight, Sun. 9 a.m.–11 p.m. $$    • • •

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.

$$

BISTRO 58

15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417773-1985, vcellars.com. Bistro fare. This restaurant is off the beaten path and offers a stellar selection of wine, a tasty lunch menu and a seasonal monthly dinner menu. Yummy sandwiches fill the lunch menu, like the super-tasty Steph sand-

wich. It features a ciabatta roll that is topped with roasted chicken, Gorgonzola cheese, fig jam and bacon for a wonderful salty-and-sweet flavor profile. Also be sure to check out the Friday night dinners. Open Tue.–Sat., 11 a.m–2 p.m.; Fri., 5–8 p.m. $

BLACK OAK GRILL

601 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-2390063, blackoakgrill.com. American Visit this tasty, casual spot while you’re spending the day shopping and strolling around at Branson Landing. On the menu here are classically pleasing flavors, like the bacon cheeseburger (topped with a fried egg and served on a brioche bun) and meatloaf. We also love the seared ahi tuna salad. Open Sun.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $$

BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES

209 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-319-5905; 2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, 417-3680227; 2420 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-3513595; blaaacksheep.com Burgers . This swanky but comfortable burger joint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield Village and on East Sunshine Street. Chow down on the Good Yogi; two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and baaad sauce—house-made Thousand Island dressing. Vegetarian? Black Sheep has you covered with its Hippy Jen. The shakes are great here too, with both kid-friendly options and grown-up versions with alcohol. For the adults, we recommend trying the Purple Haze shake with blackberry moonshine in it. Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–midnight; Sun., 11 a.m.–9 p.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 16 beers on tap alongside some great-looking eats like the crispy fried chicken, grilled salmon on a bed of gnocchi. Open Weds.–Sat. 11 a.m.– 10 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Mon. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $ $

• • •

BOSKY’S VEGAN GRILL

405 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-507-1050, boskysvegangrill.com Vegan . With a 100% meatfree kitchen, Bosky’s Vegan Grill serves a small but mighty menu of hearty, filling fare. You can find burgers, a deep fried bratwurst, a chicken sandwich, and chicken tenders—all in meat-free vegan versions. Grab a salad, potato salad, fries and more too. Open Mon.–Wed. 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; Thu.–Fri. 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. $–$$

CAFE CUSCO

234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-868-8088, cafecusco.com. Peruvian. This menu is packed with fun and unexpected dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the Andes Mountains. A few standouts: the black bean quinoa burger with avocado spread, the Lomo Saltado, and a host of delicious entrees. Anything that includes the cev-

We

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

 The chai at Nawab’s Indian Cuisine (3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield) is our favorite ever. We love that it comes to the table piping hot but without sugar, so we can sweeten it as much or as little as we like. One packet is perfect for us, and that spiced flavor is such a delight.

2

On the more indulgent side of things, we have been loving the peanut butter chunk cookie from Insomnia Cookies (401 S. Kimbrough Ave., Suite 108, Springfield). One staffer’s apt review is simply, “Oh, dear Lord.”

3

Lately when we need a quick lunch but want something healthful, we keep reaching for the Ginger Sesame House Salad from Koriya (4121 S. Fremont Ave., Suite 128, Springfield). Spring greens and spinach are topped with kale, egg, carrots, radish, zucchini, green onions, sesame seeds and a delicious sesame-ginger dressing. Hot tip: Add tofu and shiitake mushrooms.

4

As a topper for our steak or as an appetizer on its own, we are obsessed with the sauteed burgundy mushrooms from Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub (1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield). They are sauteed in burgundy wine and served in a cast iron skillet, and they are absolutely addictive.

5

A longtime favorite that we still adore is the Shahsome from Metropolitan Grill (2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield). Its tasty combo of brie and goat cheeses, onion, roasted garlic and apple butter inside puff pastry with Parmesan chips and apples on the side is a sweet-and-savory wonder.

6

For something inexpensive and nostalgic, one staffer loves the vegetable beef soup from George’s Family Restaurant (339 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield). “It’s just like Mom used to make, and you get a big bowl with a warm roll for $5.99.”

7 Staffers’ kids have been raving about the over-the-top shakes from MacCheesy’s (two 417-land locations, maccheesys.com). The s’mores shake with a giant marshmallow rim was the winner on a recent visit.

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

are obsessed with the chai from Nawab’s Indian Cuisine. It’s always so perfectly spiced.

iche is a sure-bet. You can get it as an appetizer, or as a taco filling. You can even order the Leche de Tigre appetizer to get your ceviche fix—it is a shot of ceviche juice with hot sauce and a chilled shrimp chaser. Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $$

CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE

601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800. Cafe fare . What do you get when you combine a coffee shop, bar, cafe and liquor store? Cherry Picker Package + Fare. A small selection of sandwiches, soups and salads is served daily. We’re big fans of the To Brie or Not to Brie—an Artisan Oven baguette topped with salted butter spread, thinly sliced ham, apricot preserves and a slice of brie. After your meal, order an adult beverage at the bar or pick up a bottle of wine to enjoy at home. In the mornings, the coffee drinks are always well done, and for dessert you can grab a slice of Prairie Pie. Open Mon.–Thu., 7 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 7 a.m.–midnight. $

CIVIL KITCHEN & TAP

107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-501-8456, civilkitchenandtap.com. Bar fare. With 28 beers on tap and chicken and waffles 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. Bonus: It’s located right on a corner on Park Central Square, so you can walk from there to other downtown Springfield destinations—or just people-watch from the patio. Open Tue.–Sat., 11 a.m.–1:30 a.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.–midnight $

CLUB 609

609 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-6090. Casual fine dining. The menu is large at this Joplin mainstay, and it offers everything from sandwiches to delicious steaks. There is a wide variety of entree salads, and soups are made fresh every day. They also have a killer happy hour. The kitchen is open Sun.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; bar is open till close. $$   • • K ☎

THE COLLECTIVE

1528 N. Main St., Nixa, 417-494-4078, thecollective417.com. American. Aside from a big menu and plans for live music, The Collective also features themed decor in each room. For example, the outdoor bar is called The Silo and features a silo brought down from northwest Missouri and seating made from water troughs. The menu features hearty, rib-sticking options like loaded French fries, fried chicken sandwiches, Philly cheesesteaks, pulled pork and a whole fried catfish to name a just a few. Open Weds.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–8 p.m.. $

DERBY DELI

2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8834066. Cafe fare. Located inside Brown Derby International Wine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates

and salami plates, a hummus board and more. We love the Martin’s salad, topped with oven-roasted chicken, or the Local Goat salad topped with a scoop of chicken salad. Don’t miss the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham, President’s butter and gruyere on a baguette. Open Tue.–Fri., 11 a.m.–3 p.m. for lunch, Tue.–Fri., 11 a.m.–7 p.m. for small plates; Sat., 11 a.m.–7 p.m. $   • • •

DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT

at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417335-2777, bigcedar.com. American. Here you can enjoy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. For an appetizer, the smoked trout is fantastic, and so is the cornbread topped with cracked pepper maple butter and smoked bacon. The entrees change with the season and are always the perfect blend of rustic and upscale. For brunch, try the johnny cakes with fried green tomatoes for something with a southern flair, or the acai and chia smoothie bowl for something a little trendier. Brunch on Sundays. Open daily for breakfast, 7–11 a.m.; lunch, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.; dinner, 5–9:30 p.m. $$–$$$

(high season) •

DOBYNS DINING ROOM

1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146 , keetercenter.edu. American he smoked tomato soup is knock-your-socks-off delicious. College of the Ozarks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farm-to-table quality. Try the hickory smoked prime rib Thursday through Saturday. Don’t miss the chocolate cobbler for dessert. The Keeter Center also has a creamery that offers up some delightful homemade ice creams and sorbets. Brunch on Sundays. Open Mon.–Sat., 10:30 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.–2 p.m. $$

DOGWOOD CANYON RESTAURANT

2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-2256343, 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 BLT made with delicate seared trout cakes and plenty of thick-cut bacon. We also loved the margarita made with tequila infused with spicy peppers. Be sure to check out their occasional wine dinners for an extra-special experience. Open daily, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

DOWNING STREET POUR HOUSE

24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse.com. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour House is the brainchild of the award-winning barbecue slingers who own Gettin’ Basted. Don’t miss the burgers, which are excellent. Bonus: Downing Street Pour House is located on a charming street in Hollister, which adds a little coziness to your visit. Open in Hollister Mon.–Thu. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Open in Springfield Sun.–Thu. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat.

EBBETS FIELD

1027 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-5050, ebbetssgf.com. American. Under new management, this classic Springfield spot (open since 1981) has gotten a facelift and menu update. Try the Bird on a Bat: battered and fried chicken onions and pickles served on a stick with dipping sauce. The burgers are incredible too! You can build your own or try one of the four menu burgers. We’re partial to the St. Louis Black & Blues burger with Cajunstyle bacon, bleu cheese, pepperjack cheese and veggies. Open Tues.–Sun. 11 a.m.–bar close. $–$$

FARMERS GASTROPUB

2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-864-6994, farmersgastropub.com. Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and changes regularly. The entrees are well priced and satisfying, like the Scotch eggs and the chicken chop salad (arugula, kale, cabbage, blue cheese, boiled egg, pumpkin seeds, buttermilk dressing). There’s also a great selection of beer, and the burgers and fish and chips are always delicious. On a nice day, sit outside on the patio. Brunch Saturdays and Sundays. Open Mon.–Thu., 7 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri., 7 a.m.–10 p.m.; Breakfast served Mon.–Fri., 7–11 a.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.–3 p.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. Sit at the bar for a unique experience: You can watch cooks in the open kitchen while resting your drink on the ice bar. Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $$ 

FRANK ’N’ STEINS

105 Sherman Way, Nixa, eatfns.com. American. Hot dog lovers, rejoice! This gourmet hot dog joint in Nixa has a lively atmosphere and delicious all-beef or chicken dogs and brats. Devour The Big Grubowski, a concoction made of an all-beef hot dog smothered in chili, cheddar cheese, onions and jalapeños. And don’t miss the Mac Macs, which are several varieties of mac and cheese with all sorts of wild ingredients, like the pretzel mac (white cheddar, beer cheese and pretzel bits) or pizza mac (white cheddar, marinara, pizza brat bits). Open daily, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $   • V • • •

GEORGIA MAC’S

1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-319-5770, georgiamacs.com. Southern sports bar. The food is hearty and comforting with a southern flare at this south Springfield eatery. You can find loaded burgers (like the one topped with jalapeño bottle caps), fried catfish, country fried steak, loaded fries with tons of toppings, and lots more. Open Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–1:15 a.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–midnight. $ $   • • •

Farm Fresh Salad

Bufallo Sandwich

Magoo’s Wrap

FUEL – FRESH AMERICAN GRILL

3405 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-1786, facebook.com/FuelFreshAmericanGrill. American.

After you and your family work up a serious appetite racing each other in go carts at Tracks Family Fun Park, head to Fuel to fuel up. They serve hearty fare like barbecue nachoes, poutine, a couple loaded burgers, entree salads and more. Open Mon.–Thu. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sun., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $–$$   • • •

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 pizzas and the burgers (especially the burger topped with lots of tangy blue cheese). One of our favorites is the grilled salmon sandwich with a side of the sweet-and-yummy sweet potato fries. The steak salad is delish, too. Also try the black bean burger with sweet potato fries. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $

GUY FIERI’S BRANSON KITCHEN & BAR

100 Branson Landing Blvd., Suite 1111, Branson, guysbranson.com. American. Come to eat over-thetop dishes created by the “Mayor of Flavortown.”

All the dishes have a little touch of something unexpected—like burgers topped with macaroni and cheese, the nachos made with pulled pork and barbecue sauce, or the cake topped with whiskey caramel. If you’re in the mood for a filling sandwich, try the Old Skool Steak Sandwich toppped with New York strip steak, caramelized onions, onion straws and more. Open Sun.–Thu. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $$  

HACKETT HOT WINGS

520 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-625-1333, hacketthotwings.com. American Sometimes the only thing that will satisfy your cravings is a big plate of some seriously good chicken wings. The wings at Hackett Hot Wings are fantastic and we’ve heard rave reviews from readers and staffers alike. There are 13 hot wing flavors at this long-time Joplin favorite, but we’re partial to the delicious hot and honey sauce and the tasty house dry rub. Don’t miss the delish sweet potato tots for a supertasty side dish. Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sun., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $   • K •

HOULIHAN’S

2431 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8627777; 2110 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417883-3434; 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. When the weather is nice, be sure to grab a table on the patio, where you can gather around a fire pit while you enjoy your meal. Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–midnight; Sun., 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m. $–$$

HUEY MAGOO’S CHICKEN TENDERS

3352 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-812-8020, hueymagoos.com. Chicken tenders. The region’s first Huey Magoo’s Chicken Tenders is slated to open this spring near Sunshine Street and Highway 65. This spot offers chicken tendes (both fried or grilled) in platters, sandwiches, salads and wraps. Hours TBA. $–$$

HY-VEE

1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-8224; 2150 E. Sunshine St., Springfield; hy-vee.com. It’s all about variety when it comes to the freshly prepared food at Hy-Vee. You have a hibachi grill, a pizzeria, hearty comfort food, sushi, Chinese dishes and even Wahlburgers burgers and fries. It’s a great place to go when you and the family can’t decide on one thing that everybody is hungry for. Bonus if you snag a seat by the fireplace. $–$$ 

• • WIFI

LA HABANA VIEJA

220 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-771-5723, la-habana-vieja.com. Cuban . Find great mojitos and a menu full of Cuban fare at this Commercial Street eatery. Try the ropa vieja, Cuba’s national dish of beef brisket, rice and veggies. Don’t miss the mango-lime ceviche appetizer made with shrimp, scallops and ahi tuna. Or go for the Cuban-style flan fro dessert. Open Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and 5–9 p.m. $$–$$$

MISSOURI MIKE’S

1724 E. Battlefield, Springfield, 417-771-5829, momikesbbq.com. This spot offers some great barbecue fare like at its sister location, Missouri Mike’s BBQ & More, plus a variety of casual dining options as well. But they also serve a great weekend breakfast with plenty of boozy morning drinks and everything from the classics (biscuit sammies, please!) to creative fare like French toast made with bananas anc caramelized rum sauce. Open for breakfast Sat.–Sun. 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Open for lunch and dinner Sun.–Thu. 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $–$$ 

MACCHEESY’S

1920 E. Independence St., Springfield, 417-3513084; 2202 S. Range Line Road, Joplin, 417-6918256; maccheesys.com. There are 18 varieties of loaded macaroni and cheese and 10 types of grilled cheese sandwiches on the menu here, along with soups, salads and some over-the-top shakes with tons of wild toppings. You can also build your own mac and cheese creation, or order a side of garlic knots. Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

$–$$   • • K

NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE

2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-3403, nearlyfamous.net. Deli and Italian Regulars love the weekly specials: egg salad on Fridays, pear sandwiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastic, and it goes well with just about any sandwich at this friendly spot. It’s hopping at lunchtime, and the dinner hours offer a menu filled with tasty pasta dishes. They’re a good stop

for a weekend brunch as well. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $$

NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY

1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417-720-4162; 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. They have two soups of the day, one of which is vegetarian. While you’re there, pick up a loaf of their Neighbor’s Best bread to bring home. Take it from us: It makes the most excellent toast we’ve ever had. Open Mon.–Sat., 7 a.m.–8 p.m. $

THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT

at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com. Inside the beautifully restored Ozark Mill at Finley Farms, 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. There’s a core menu, plus a an ever-changign seasonal menu. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters appetizer made with artichoke, sausage, mozzarella and served over a pickled pepper aioli. Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $$–$$$

PAULA DEEN’S FAMILY KITCHEN

545 Branson Landing, Branson, 417-320-5127, pauladeensfamilykitchen.com. Southern. Meals are served family-style at this spot, where you pick a package named for a southern city (like The Savannah) and construct a shareable meal from rib-sticking entree options like pot roast, chicken and dumplings and fried catfish. Get the banana pudding for dessert! Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $$

QUEEN CITY SOUL KITCHEN

1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-379-8614, facebook.com/QueenCitySoulKitchen. Soul food. The menu changes from week to week here, but the offerings are always delicious and hearty. Find comforting fare like meatloaf, fried chicken wings, smothered pork chops and more. If you have room for dessert, don’t miss the delicious peach cobbler. Open Thursday–Sunday 11 a.m.–7

RED ONION CAFÉ

204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe.com. American/Italian. The Tuxedo Chicken is a customer favorite at this long-time Joplin restaurant. 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!) Live entertainment every third Thursday. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $$

ROSIE JO’S CAFE

1711 S. 15th St., Ozark, 417-581-6047. American. This place is a very popular hangout at breakfast time with great daily specials, and it also has great homemade pies, including surprising ones like gooseberry. The fried chicken is delicious at

this eatery, and so are the fried dill pickles and the onion rings. Basically, if it’s fried at Rosie Jo’s, you know it’s going to be delicious. Open Mon.–Sat., 7 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sun., 7 a.m.–2:30 p.m. $

SPLIT SOCIAL KITCHEN

3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-755-7155, splitspringfield.com. American. Come for creative and beautifully prepared shareables, like burrata with truffle pesto, that are served a teeny restaurant space that packs a lot of good vibes. We love the amazing macaroni and cheese (get fried chicken with it as your optional protein). And the Chiliville hot chicken sandwich is seriously spicy. Their frequently changing daily specials are always a hit too. Come on the weekend to try the tasty brunch menu. Open Tues.–Fri. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $$    • •

ST. MICHAEL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE

301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315. American . The burgers are top-notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken breast are a favorite (try the one with spicy Cajun chicken—yum!). We love that you can get a salad topped with their tasty crab cakes too. So delish. Come hungry enough to order dessert because the cakes are stellar. Our favorite is the dreamy banana cake (nothing can beat it!). Open Mon.–Wed., 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–11 p.m.

TEA BAR & BITES

621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417-866-7500, teabarandbites.com. Everything we’ve tasted at Tea Bar & Bites has been fantastic. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, flaky crust. We love any of the menu items that have a Mediterranean flair. The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. There are tasty baked goods too, like giant caramel rolls or sweet coconut cream cupcakes. Occasional theme dinners. Open Mon.–Thu., 8:30 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri., 8:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat., 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

UNDERCLIFF GRILL & BAR

6375 Old Highway 71, Tipton Ford, 417-629-2869, theundercliffgrill.com. American. In the mood for an eatery in an usual location? This restaurant is built into a cave. Come for hearty sandwiches and entrees, like the Miner’s Burger or the always satisfying Boomtown Fried Chicken. Open Wed.–Fri. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $

VAN GOGH’S EETERIE

334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie.com. Indo-Dutch. Dutch pancakes, chicken witlof and other Indo-Dutch and Dutch-inspired cuisine populate the menu at this Commercial Street hotspot from Joe Gidman of Cafe Cusco. We love the pancakes—especially the Farm Near Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. For something packed with veggies, the Liza’s Stamppot entree is perfect. For something sweet, our favorite is the Starry Night

dessert pancake topped with blueberry compote, lemon-ginger sauce and ice cream. Open Tue.–Thu., 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 8 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.–2 p.m. $$

BARBECUE

BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ

2002 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com. Diners love the ribs and the burnt ends at this classic barbecue eatery. We can’t get enough of the killer smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. And don’t miss the jalapeño bottle caps. If you’re extra hungry, get the baked potato that’s covered with just about everything.Open daily, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $

CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE

3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7201113, citybutchersgf.com. Come early because this Texas-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. Their pickles are an excellent addition to an ymeal as well. Open daily 11 a.m. until sold out. $–$$ 

CROSSTOWN BBQ

1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646. Try the ribs or the brisket. The Big Pappa Dinner is a signature dish, and it features tons of meat including ribs, brisket and hot links. Another customer favorite (even though it’s not barbecue) is the always-tasty and oh-so-crispy fried catfishOpen Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $–$$   • ☎ • K •

DANNA’S BBQ AND BURGER SHOP

963 Missouri 165, Branson, 417-337-5527; 15 Hope Way, Branson West, 417-272-1945; 7930 E. Highway 76, Kirbyville, 417-334-9541; dannasbbq. com. If you want to share a meal with a friend, the Smoked Pit Plate comes with plenty of food for two people and features tender pulled beef, half a chicken, pulled pork, sausage and ribs. Hours vary by season and location. $   • • K •

GETTIN’ BASTED

3242 S. Stewart Ave., Springfield; 2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com. Come here for award-winning barbecue in all your favorite varieties: brisket, ribs, pulled pork and more. The seven wagyu burgers on the menu are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong with homemade pimento cheese, barbecue nachos and more. We especially love the pulled pork tacos appetizer. It’s to-die-for. Open Sun.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.– 10 p.m.. $–$$   • • K

HEADY BAR-B-QUE CO.

573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq. com. This spot specializes in Kansas City–style barbecue. Among stellar ribs, brisket and more

perfectly prepared meats, you can find unexpected dishes with a barbecue spin: nachos, salads, a burrito. Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun., 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

$–$$ 

MISSOURI MIKE’S BBQ & MORE

2833 W. Chestnut Expy., Springfield, 417-7715018, momikesbbq.com. In additional to very well done classic barbecue options (brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork), you can also get a handful of great sandwiches. The Lyndsey is a smashburger with pulled pork, brisket, barbecue sauce and cole slaw. Try the tri-tip sandwich on brioche with a side of pit beans. Open Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

$–$$ 

• • • K

PAPPY’S PLACE

943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744. Be sure not to miss the pork spare ribs with Pappy’s barbecue sauce or the barbecue nachos at this long-running Springfield institution. (Extra perk: We’ve heard people say that Pappy’s sells the very coldest beer in town.) The restaurant’s daily specials are delicious, too. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m. $

WHOLE HOG CAFÉ

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 extra-indulgent potato salad (it is among the best we’ve ever tried). Don’t miss the barbecue nachos or super-juicy chicken. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

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. The Ozark spot and has become just as popular. Come for massive pancakes and other breakfast fare. The Ozark location serves dinner on the weekends. Branson open daily 7 a.m.–3 p.m.; Ozark open daily 7 a.m.–3 p.m. and Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

THE BRUNCHEONETTE

424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net. We love the creative takes on eggs Benedict that we’ve found at The Bruncheonette, whose menu changes weekly but is always interesting. Don’t miss your chance to order a plate of poutine, hand-cut fries topped with gravy, shredded cheese and a poached egg. The carrot fries are wonderful too. This restaurant is small but mighty, and it’s worth the wait for a table. Open Wed.–Fri., 6:30 a.m.–2 p.m.; Sat.–Sun., 9 a.m. until supplies run out.

EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST PUB

1717 E. Cherokee St., Springfield, 417-885-8088. This spot serves up creative breakfast fare and has a full-service bar churning out breakfast margaritas and the ilk. Bonus: Those breakfast margs are made with orange marmalade for a nod to the day’s first meal. Don’t miss the tacos, burritos, traditional breakfast fare, sandwiches and more. There’s even a chicken and waffles sandwich. Open Mon.–Fri., 7 a.m.–3 p.m.; Sat., 7 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $

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 Watch you can find breakfast power bowls (like the one filled with quinoa, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, kale and eggs), lemon-ricotta pancakes, avocado toast, a superfood bowl with chia pudding and fruit and lots more. They even have an appetizer that’s just a plate of that incredible bacon. Simple and delish. Don’t miss the lunch treats, too. Open daily, 7 a.m.–2:30 p.m. $

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. We also love The Bear Hug: biscuits and gravy, choice of meat, two eggs and either hash browns or sweet browns. If you’re feeling a little British, try The Full Monty. Gailey’s is known for breakfast, but the restaurant also has a tasty lunch menu. Breakfast and lunch are served all day. Open Sun.–Tues., 7 a.m.–3 p.m., Wed.–Sat., 7 a.m.–10 p.m. $ 

WIFI • • K

MORNING DAY CAFE

101 S. Main St., Nixa; 417-494-5055. facebook. com/MDCNixa. Downtown Nixa gets its morning jolt thanks to Morning Day Cafe, a cozy, eclectic space right on the main drag. There’s plenty to love on the extensive menu. For the sweet tooth, try the muffin platter with a tender, sweet muffin trio. Classic breakfast fare fills the menu, but fun surprises include dishes the #Bacon, with an insanely addictive carmelized Gouda potato cake and a hashtag of bacon. If breakfast fare isn’t your jam, check out the lunch entrees. They are just as tasty. Open 7 a.m.–4 p.m. daily. $$   WIFI • • • K

RISE

105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-6916088, 417rise.com. This spot is the brainchild of the same people who own European Cafe. The large and varied menu is inventive and superbly executed, with clever dishes like pavlova-inspired French toast, baklava-inspired Belgian wafflees, both sweet and savory rice pudding meals, nourishing grain bowls, breakfast sandwiches from classic to creative and so much more. Treat yourself to a breakfast cocktail and a plate of creamed eggs topped with smoked salmon. It’s an awesome way to brunch. Open Mon..–Fri. 7 a.m.–3 p.m.;

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. We are obsessed with their hashbrown quiches, and the homemade biscuits topped with everything seasoning are to die for. We love that you can even get a breakfast salad, topped with a perfect egg. Any baked sweet is a dream here too, especially the filled donuts and any of the creative cakes. Open Tues.–Fri. 7 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.–1 p.m., brunch the first Sunday of the month 9 a.m.–noon. $

VILLAGE INN FAMILY RESTAURANT

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

CAJUN

BIG EASY GRILL

3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040. The jambalaya is fantastic, and we like to order it extra-spicy. The oyster po’boys are customer favorites, and the boudin (Cajun sausage balls) are not to be missed. Try mix-and-match dishes to create a meal full of your favorite Cajun flavors (you can order a side of red beans and rice with a po’boy, for example). Or you could just keep it simple and dig into the peel-and-eat shrimp. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $   • • • K

CHINESE

5 SPICE CHINA GRILL

2058 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-799-0215.

A modern take on Chinese food. Diners love the General chicken, the sweet-and-crunchy crab Rangoon and the mango chicken. They have a very tasty take on orange chicken that comes with mandarine oranges for an unexpected touch. We really love the jalapeno basil dishes too. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $ – $$   • • • K  ☎

BAO BAO CHINESE BISTRO

2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite A104, Springfield, 417-877-7505. Chinese food fans, this is a musttry spot for you and it has a devoted following. We just keep hearing rave reviews about Bao Bao Chinese Bistro. This little spot in Chesterfield Village has a chef who used to own a restaurant in Shanghai, so there are several authentic items on the menu. Try the salt-and-pepper pork or the jiaozi dumplings. Open Sun.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. $   • •

CHINESE CHEF

3029 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8834770, facebook.com/chinesechefcampbell; 1731 S. Enterprise Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2433. Classic Springfield-style Chinese food is on the vast and very affordable menu at Chinese Chef. Owner Joe Fong has been serving Springfield for over 40 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.

CORNER 21

1369 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-766-6630, corner21us.com. This restaurant offers a large variety of authentic Chinese dishes, including several Sichuan-style meals. You’ll even find dishes that aren’t common on local Chinese restaurant menus, such as braised pork belly with rice noodles, ribeye and enoki mushrooms in a curry broth, crispy fried pumpkin, spicy Sichuan fish and so much more. We loved everything we tried on a recent visit, especially the lamb cumin and the Sichuan shrimp. Open Tues.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $

HONG KONG INN RESTAURANT

1632 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-881-1113; 1645 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8663382; 1520 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417881-8008; 761 N. 17th St., Ozark, 417-581-2539. This spot serves typical Chinese favorites and tasty egg rolls. The Szechuan chicken is a favorite and packs quite a spicy punch. The cashew chicken is a longtime customer favorite. Hours vary by store; lunch and dinner daily at all locations.

LEONG’S ASIAN DINER

1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8877500. 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 flair. The General Tso’s chicken has a rich and spicy sauce and lots of veggies. Be sure to keep an eye out for new items, as they change up their menu a couple times a year. Open Mon.–Thu. 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $–$$ 

LUCY’S CHINESE FOOD

Several 417-land locations, lucyschinesefood.com. Don’t miss the cashew chicken combo special that gets you an entree, a side and fried rice for an incredible price. We like the sweet and sour chicken here. But if you’d rather eat something mega-spicy than something fried, order the hot chicken. It’ll have you reaching for your water glass with every bite. We love the kids meals here, too. They are the perfect little portion of tiny diners, plus they come with a spring roll, a crab rangoon and a drink. Hours vary by location and season. $  

COFFEE SHOP FARE

ARCHITECT COFFEE

1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-771-5030, architectcoffeeco.com. This Instagram-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. We love the seasonal drinks that change every so often, especially when they offer some version of a refreshing espresso tonic. So good! Don’t skip the sandwiches or salads for lunch (served all night). We also love this spot because it’s hopping, and we always run into a friend when we visit. Open Mon.–Fri., 7 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.–8 p.m.

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 just drinks. Be sure to try the super-delicious sandwiches that are served here, too. The Juliette is one of our favorite sandwiches from Big Momma’s (with apples, provolone and creamy spreads), and we also adore the sweets selection. Open Mon.–Fri., 7 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sat.–Sun., 8 a.m.–10 p.m.

THE BLACK LAB COFFEE CO.

545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook.com/theblacklabllc ; 300 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-942-7881, facebook.com/ BlackLabDowntown; 3541 S. Lone Pine Ave, Springfield. This casually canine-inspired coffee stop is Republic’s place to be for a piping hot labbuccino, and their second location in Springfield serves all the same pup-inspired menu items. Try the Black Lab, which includes toffee nut and chocolate, or the Goldendoodle, a signature combination of caramel and brown sugar. Sips aren’t the only draw here, either. The shop serves full lunch and breakfast menus too. Indulge in a Nutella toast with strawberries along with your morning brew. Open Mon.–Sat., 6 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.–2 p.m. $   V • • WIFI •

CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE

1900 W. Sunset St., Springfield, 417-8817625, classicrockcoffee.com; 535 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-771-5143, classicrockcoffeedowntown.com. This coffee shop offers espresso drinks with rock ‘n’ roll–inspired names. Try the Sweet Emotion latte (with chocolate and caramel) and a hamd and cheese puff pastry breakfast pocket to start your day. Open Mon.–Wed., 6 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Thu., 6 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri., 6 a.m.–midnight; Sat., 7 a.m.–midnight.; Sun., 8

THE COFFEE ETHIC

124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-8666645, thecoffeeethic.com. Try the single-origin coffee, brewed one cup at a time, or any of the creative and delicious seasonal drinks. The cappuccino is fantastic (truly one of the best we’ve ever had), and the shop also serves wine, craft beers on draft and a small selection of quality

liquors. We love the bottled lattes too. The food game here is strong too, with loaded oatmeal, freshly baked muffins and other drool-worthy fare. The front windows are a great spot to sit in the early morning when downtown Springfield is waking up. The people-watching is top-notch. Open Mon.–Sat., 7 a.m.–3 p.m. $ • • • • WIFI

COLLECTIVE COFFEE SHOP

2353 State Highway 248, Branson, 417-676-0803, facebook.com/collectivecoffeeshop. Collective Coffee Shop is the second location of Vintage Paris Coffee shop. This outpost offers specialty lattes, loose leaf teas and unique coffee drinks. Although Collective Coffee Shop is located within a church, it is open to the public opposite of church hours. Open Mon.–Fri., 7 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sat.–Sun., 8 a.m.–8 p.m. $ • • WIFI

COUNTRY GIRLS ESPRESSO

3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-7777, facebook.com/countrygirlsespresso. Aside from all of the delicious coffee drinks, the real musttry item here is the authentic Cuban sandwich, served pressed on Cuban bread. Country Girls’ signature is its Cafe Con Leche with scalded milk. We also love the guava pastry, a huge treat that costs less than $2 and is filled with delectable, tropical sweetness. For breakfast, the pressed bacon and cheddar burritos are a favorite thanks to crisp, thick-cut bacon. Order it with an iced Americano for a hearty brekafast. Open Mon.–Sat., 6 a.m.–7 p.m. $

DANCING MULE COFFEE COMPANY

1945 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-5114 , dancingmulecoffee.com The mochas are great here—chocolatey but not too sweet. Dancing Mule also does a really good authentic cappuccino that’s made just right. Try the Peanut Butter Fandango Frappe if you’re in the mood for something a little more funky, and if you’re on the run, swing through the drive-thru. Open Mon.–Fri., 6 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sat., 7 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun., 7 a.m.–4 p.m. $  • • WIFI

DARK STONE COFFEE

1826 E. Turner St., Springfield, 417-450-9648, darkstonecoffee.com . This drive-thru-only coffee trailer has a menu of classic coffee and espresso drinks alongside fun flavored lattes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Sugar & Spice made with the heat of a little bit of ghost pepper. You can also buy bags of ground coffee to take home, to save yourself a trip to the grocery while you get you morning drive-thru cup of joe. Open Mon.–Fri. 6 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m. $

ECHELON COFFEE

2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-3742739, echeloncoffee.com . This sunny coffee shop (with a drive-thru!) has excellent 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) prepared as a frappe when we’re feeling indulgent. Don’t miss the delish breakfast and lunch fare too. Open Mon.–Fri. 6 a.m.–8 p.m., Sat. 7 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.–3 p.m.. $    • • • 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. In addition to carefully crafted cups of coffee (and Turkish coffee!), there’s a Veggie Naan’wich made with chickpea mash, carrots and pickled onions. it’s one of our favorite lunches. We love orderig a latte and adding rosewater and honey. Open Mon.–Sat., 7 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.–8 p.m. $    • 

KINGDOM COFFEE

211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417350-1234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf.com. The coffee menu here features all your favorite classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos, mochas and more. We love the classic cortado the most, and the nottoo-sweet and super-creamy iced matcha latte is truly delicious. For a more substantial bite, try the Union Biscuit: bacon, two eggs, sharp cheddar cheese and herb preserves on a buttermilk biscuit. Open daily, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. $ 

MUDHOUSE COFFEE

323 South Ave. Suite B, Springfield, 417-832-1720, mudhousecoffee.com. The coffee is always fantastic here, and Mudhouse also offers a wide variety of loose-leaf teas. The muffins here are huge and delicious (make sure you try the one with berries—it’s our favorite). You can also order daily fresh soups and create-your-own sandwiches, or you could opt for something healthier in the gluten-free Buddha bowls filled with so much healthful goodness.. Open Mon.–Sat., 7 a.m.–11 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.–11 p.m. $

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 Mexican-Korean fusion menu, featuring gogi nachos, kimchi fried rice and street tacos. The gogi quesadilla with kimchi is our favorite; we like to order it with tofu and extra goji sauce on the side for dipping every single crispy bite of our quesadilla. Don’t miss the seasonal drinks; they don’t disappoint. Open Mon.–Sat., 8 a.m.–7 p.m. $

ROOTS COFFEE BAR

1645 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8776889, facebook.com/rootscoffeebar. Grab a cup of joe on the go or stay awhile and order a breakfast sandwich at this versatile coffee shop. Be sure not to miss the Smash Brown: a fried egg, cheese and hash brown sandwich topped with sausage, house-made brisket or pecan smoked shoulder bacon and served on a potato bun. Other popular menu items include breakfast burritos and the BLT. Open Tue.–Fri., 7 a.m.–3 p.m.; Sat.–Sun., 8 a.m.–3 p.m. $

THE WORKSHOP AT FINLEY FARMS

840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com. The Workshop is a coffee shop and gathering space. The menu includes classic

coffee and tea offerings plus super-sized suped up toasts (the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious). You can also sign up for hands-on workshops and classes. Open Mon.–Sat., 7 a.m.–3 p.m. $ 

WIFI • •

DELIS & SANDWICH SHOPS

J. PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI

1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-1148, queencitydeli.com. This spot serves up pasta, soups, salads and some super-delicious sandwiches. Don’t miss The Burnes (beef tenderloin on garlic bread) or the Italian beef sandwiches (order them wet to get plenty of luscious jus). You can’t go wrong with the pastrami sandwich that’s so meaty—piled high like in New York City delis. Open Mon.–Sat., 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m. $   • • •

THE SANDWICH SCENE

208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-685-9682, thesandwichscene.com. This little spot started out inside Sweet Boy’s Neighborhood Bar and has now found a home of its own on McDaniel Street. This spot slings some seriously good sammies. Don’t miss the Eurbano, made with mojo pork, house-made terrine, ham, swiss and spicy giardiniera. The Meatball sub is crazy good too, and you should keep an eye out for get-them-whileyou-can specials. Open 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday–Saturday. $   • •

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 sandwich 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., 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; West McDaniel Street location open Mon.–Fri., 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $  •

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFÉ

3811 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-887-6600; 3645 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-719-4486; 1971 E. Independence St., Springfield, 417-3501273; tropicalsmoothiecafe.com. Lunches are light and pretty guilt-free. Grab a turkey-bacon-ranch sandwich or a wrap. And of course, don’t miss those tasty smoothies. They come in just about every flavor you can think of, but we’re partial to the one with berries and oats. Kids eat free on weekends. Open Mon.–Fri., 7 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat.–Sun., 9 a.m.–6 p.m. $    WIFI • • K •

the fall). Try the Ozarks Turtle sundae (a classic concoction with caramel, hot fudge and toasty pecans). Or order your own creation. Open Sun.–Thu., 11 a.m.–11:30 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–midnight. $ • • •

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. You can even find some savory pastries, like the bacon, egg and goat cheese tart. Their macarons are to die for, and the pretty little mousse cakes are almost too lovely to eat. We love the quiche here as well. It pairs perfectly with the ever-changing seasonal coffee and tea drinks, which are always delicious and full of lovely ingredients. Open Mon.–Thurs., 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri., 7 a.m.–11 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.–11 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.–9 p.m. $ WIFI • •

HURTS DONUT

320 Park Central West, Springfield, 417-719-4119; 1111 E. Republic Road, Suite 164, Springfield, 417755-7574; wannahurts.com . Outside-the-box toppings cover these super-delicious doughnuts, and they are available 24 hours a day in downtown Springfield. A customer favorite is the maple-bacon bar, a huge, salty-sweet concoction that is oh-so-delish. Open 24 hours. $

LA BOBA CAFE

1601 W. Sunshine St., Suite D, Springfield, 417720-1328 facebook.com/labobacafe. Here you can get boba tea in a huge variety of flavors and formats, from regular tea to milk tea and smoothies. Toppings include black boba, crystal boba and several flavors of jelly and popping boba. Our favorite: Tiger milk tea (a combination of Thai tea and jasmine tea) with lychee jellies and crystal boba. You can also get rolled ice cream sundaes here. Open Mon.–Weds. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Thurs.–Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. noon–8 p.m. $   WIFI • •

LUCKY CAT BOBA TEA & TAYAKI

3424 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-351-3136. We love this spot for fun drinks and snacks. There is a hefty menu of bubble tea options (we like the passionfruit mojito bubble tea that comes with fresh lime and mint leaves) plus sweet snacks like mochi ball skewers and darling slices of cake. The tayaki are fish-shaped waffle-like cakes with tasty fillings that come in a variety of flavors like sweet red bean, Nutella, vanilla custard and more. Open Sun.–Thu. 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $ WIFI • •

PRAIRIE PIE

DESSERTS & SWEETS

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD

Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings (our staffers love the key lime pie and blackberry in the summer, and the apple pie and pumpkin pie in

307 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com. Prairie Pie makes stellar all-butter-crust pies in flavors that range from classic to inventive. The caramel apple pie is an elevated take on a classic and is quite popular. Any of owner Eleanor Taylor’s pies made with rhubarb (some with cherry, some with strawberry) are superb. Stop by the storefront for other offerings as well, such as savory pot pies, cookies and crazy-good mashed potatoes. Open Thurs.–Sun. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $–$$

SOCIETEA

1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-4094, facebook.com/societea. Bubble tea is the name of the game at this authentic spot where the matcha milk tea and the matcha roll cake are both musttry offerings. Don’t miss their new yogurt line, with a delicious passionfruit-yogurt drink that’s so good with that chewy boba. Whether you’re a bubble tea veteran or looking to try something new, this is your place. Open Mon.–Thu., 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.–8 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. We love the glazed blueberry and the oh-so-fresh chocolate cake donuts. Open daily, 3 a.m.–2 p.m.; National Avenue location closed Sunday; Ozark location closed Monday. $

DINERS & GREASY SPOONS

BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND

1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291. illy Bob’s is a greasy-spoon institution that serves delicious sweets and tasty American food. There are 24 flavors of fried pies here. Cheeseburgers (pro tip: top them with grilled onions) and footlong hot dogs with chili and cheese are popular. Open daily, 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m. $   • •

CASPER’S

601 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-9750. This local favorite serves overflowing 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, beans and cornbread when you can get it on special. Open Mon.–Thu., 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 10:30 a.m.–8 p.m. $

DRUFF’S

331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-719-1719, yumdruffs.com. Druff’s brings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses, soups and creative sides. For a little heat, try the Good Doctor, made with cheddar, cream cheese, bacon and jalapeño, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a nutella and strawberry grilled sando—it’s nuts. Druff’s also offers a robust brunch and breakfast menu. We love the breakfast bowls, especially the Swipe Right with eggs, hash browns, jalapenos, avocado, bacon and cheddar. Open Tue.–Wed., 7 a.m.–4 p.m.; Thu.–Sat., 7 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

RED’S GIANT HAMBURG

2301 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. A revival of the Route 66 staple (the original Red’s is rumored to be the country’s first drive-through restaurant), this diner serves up as much nostalgia as it does classic burgers. Opt for the stacked high griddle

burgers served with fries or onion rings, slurp on a malt or milkshake, or try out some of the newer gluten-free options. Check out the breakfast menu if you’re up early. Open daily, 6 a.m.–10 p.m. $

THE SQUEEZE INN

404 RB Road, Stockton, 417-276-6302. Head up to Stockton to try one of the yummiest and most unusual burgers in 417-land. Order the Squeeze with Cheese, a ⅓-pound griddle-cooked burger that’s smothered in so much shredded cheddar cheese that it overflows the patty and creates a “cheese skirt” of crunchy cheddar. It’s huge and so delicious! We really like the French fries here, too. Cash or checks only. Open Tues. 11 a.m.–6:30 p.m., Weds. 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Thu. 11 a.m.–6:30 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

INDIAN

INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL

2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill. com. ome to this yummy little spot on the Branson strip to indulge in some tasty Indian fare. We loved the karahi lamb (tender lamb, bell peppers and onion in a spicy sauce) and the mushroom aloo matar (mushrooms, potatoes and peas swimming in a creamy sauce). Stop by for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays to take advantage of the tasty buffet. Open daily, 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 5–10 p.m. $$

NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR

3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050. Find all your favorite classic Indian dishes here (the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are both excellent) along with some others you might not have seen around town before. For example, the gol gappay is a crispy little hollow fried ball filled with chickpeas, potato, onion and spices. We love the ras malai dessert: homemade cheese in a sweet, milky, cardamom-infused sauce. Open Weds.–Mon. 11 a.m.–3 p.m.; Thu.–Sat. 5–10 p.m.; Sun., Mon., Weds. 5–9 p.m. $$   • •

TAJ GRILL

4538 Highway 43, Joplin, 417-659-8876, facebook.com/tajgrilljoplin. This Joplin spot serves your favorite classic Indian dishes, like karahi chicken, malai kofta and more. For dessert, try the ras malai. Come for breakfast as well, when you can get dishes like masala omelets and stuffed aloo pratha flatbread. Open Tues.–Sun. 8 a.m.–10 p.m. $–$$

TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT

1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573. You can find all your Indian favorites here on the large menu. There is a variety of naan bread (and it’s so, so good), many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts like rice pudding and gulab jamun (donuts soaked in syrup). We are obsessed with the lamb rogan josh, the chicken jalfrezi, and the bhindi masala (an okra dish). Open for lunch and dinner daily. $$

ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE

311 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, 417-351-4400, zaykaspringfield.com. There’s a lot to love about this downtown Springfield Indian restaurant. The vegetable korma, chicken tikka masala and malai kofta are just a few of our favorite dishes. If you’re new to Indian food, try the pre-set combo meals that feature a lot of different flavors. For dessert, you can’t beat a bowl of warm gulab jamun sweet pastry balls. The lunch buffet is also killer when it’s open. Open for lunch Tue.–Sun., 11 a.m.–2 p.m.; open for dinner Tue.–Thu., 5–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 5–10 p.m.; Sun., 5–9 p.m. $ – $$   •  • • •

ITALIAN

ARCHIE’S ITALIAN EATERY

1410 E. Republic Rd., Springfield, 417-720-1763, archiesitalian.com. There are 10 different types of fettuchini on the menu (plus a build-your-own option), along with classic Italian dishes. Don’t miss the homemade cheesey toasted ravioli. Come at lunchtime to get freshly baked pizza— they are known for their super-fat deep-dish pizzas here. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $$   • • • K

AVANZARE , please see listing p. 98

BAMBINO’S CAFÉ

1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417-862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8814442; bambinoscafe.com. This little Italian eatery serves hearty helpings of tasty Italian fare that won’t break the bank, available at two 417-land locations. The Poppa is a popular pasta dish: It comes with penne pasta, Italian sausage, mushrooms and a spicy tomato-cream sauce. The Delmar location is great for a meal alfresco. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., noon–9 p.m. $   WIFI • • K •

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 3–9 p.m. Weds., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Thurs.–Sat., 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Sun. $$   WIFI • • K •

BELLACINO’S PIZZA & GRINDERS

4560 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-720-4414, bellacinos.com. Bellacino’s is known for its grinders––Yankee speak for sub sandwiches––but pizza, pastas and salads also make an appearance on the menu. We can’t wait to try the house special, which is the Italian grinder: They bake bread and pizza dough from scratch every day. Our favorite pasta is the mushroom ravioli. Open Mon.–Tues., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Wed.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $   • • • K

BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT , please see p. 98

FLORENTINA’S RISTORANTE ITALIANO

2690 Green Mountain Drive, Branson, 417-3379882, florentinasristoranteitaliano.com. When you’re hungry for Italian fare during your vacation in Branson, this Italian eatery is the place to go. It serves delicious brick-oven pizzas and pastas on a big menu that has a little something for everyone. Customers enjoy the rigatoni Florentina and lobster mac. Open Sun.–Thu., 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Extended summer hours. $$

GILARDI’S , please see listing p. 98

THE HILL

PICCOLO

107 West Aldersgate Drive, Suites 1 and 2, Nixa, 417-374-7291, eatpiccolo.com. When you’re craving indulgent Italian fare, Piccolo delivers with a range of piled-high pastas, pizzas, steak and chicken entrees. Start things off with the Italian Nachos (fried wonton chips, homemade alfredo sauce and toppings), or the Balboa balls, juicy meatballs stuffed with mozzarella and finished with goat cheese and marinara. Open Tue.–Thu., 4–9 p.m.; Fri., 4–10 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $–$$

SALVATORES FRESH RISTORANTE ITALIANO

MITSU NEKO FUSION CUISINE AND SUSHI BAR

1819 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson 417-336-1819. Mitsu Neko has a wide menu variety, but it specializes in two things: sushi rolls and salmon. The seared salmon is a customer favorite. . Lunch Tue.–Thu., 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Dinner Tue.–Sat., 4:30–9 p.m.; $$   • • WIFI

NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

600 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-920-8850, thehilldining.com. Come hungry to The Hill, chef Angel Kim’s all-you-can-eat destination offering a wide variety of Italian fare in a fine-dining atmosphere. Fill up on plenty of pastas, brick-oven pizzas, soups, salads, crepes and specialty desserts at stations dedicated to those and other mouthwatering items. Open for lunch Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Open for dinner Mon.–Thu., 4:30–9 p.m.; Fri., 4:30–9:30 p.m.; Sat., 2–9:30 p.m.; Sun., 2–8 p.m. Brunch served Sat.–Sun., 10 a.m.–2 p.m. $ – $$  

1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com. The menu here is packed with handmade pastas that are freshly crafted every day. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them making the fresh pasta. The menu also boasts everything from fried artichokes to a Tuscan T-bone, plus burgers, pizza and sandwiches. Open Tue.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $–$$

2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-881-7171, nakato.com. Performance-style hibachi dining is what Nakato is known for. And they are supergood at it! A little entertainment + a great meal. All of the sushi is top-notch here as well. Don’t miss the Jenny Roll, a favorite. Open Mon.–Fri., 4:30–10 p.m.; Sat., 4–10 p.m.; Sun., 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 4:30–9 p.m. $$   • • •

NIJI SUSHI

• •  WIFI ☎ (for groups of 7 or more).

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE , please see listing p. 99

NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ

306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-831-1222, nonnascafe.net. Italian. The seafood lasagna is a musttry dish, and the spicy arrabbiata lasagna is crazy-good. Anything with Italian sausage is a sure bet. We particularly love the delectable chocolate torte and the rich and delicious tiramisu. Plus, the homemade cheesecakes are always top-notch. Nonna’s also does a Sunday brunch with regular menu items from 11 a.m. –2 p.m. Open Sun.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m–10 p.m. $$   • • • K  ☎

PASGHETTI’S

3129 W. 76th Country Blvd., Branson, 417-3350690, bransonsbestrestaurant.com. Head to Pasgehtti’s in Branson for a family-friendly atmosphere and all your favorite classic ItalianAmerican staples. We’ve also heard the alfredo sauce is divine. Try the lemony chicken piccata for dinner, and follow it up with a plate of sweetand-fluffy tiramisu for dessert. Customer favorites include the Pasghetti and Meatball, the sausage rigatoni and the chicken parmesan. This place is huge and boasts two trolley cars, a game room and even a working ferris wheel. Open daily, 11 a.m.–9 p . m. $

$$

PASTA EXPRESS

Multiple 417-land locations , pastaexpress.com .The baked mostaccioli is a favorite, and it’s smothered in gooey melted cheese. The house salad is also delish here; make sure you ask for it with cheese and tomatoes. Don’t miss the tasty and indulgent hot Pasta Express sandwich topped with lots of salami and some of the tasty salad. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $ 

CRAFT SUSHI

JAPANESE

251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417319-5887, 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: It won’t break the bank. Try a salad bowl topped with marinated tofu, asparagus, mushrooms, jalapenos, edamame and spicy wasabi sauce. It’s our favorite! Customer’s love the spicy pork as well. There is also a menu of some pre-designed poke bowls and sushi rolls. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $$   • •

HARUNO , please see listing p. 98

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 extras: rice, stir fry noodles, veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. And don’t forget to try something from the sushi menu. Open daily, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.; Sun.–Thu., 4:30–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 4:30–10 p.m. $$   • • • K  ☎

KAI , please see listing p. 99

KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL 640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225. With Karai, owner Young Jun, of Haruno, Kai and Koriya, takes ramen seriously, and it shows in her food. The naked ramen with seseame noodle spinach, wood ear mushrooms, bean sprout, seaweed and sprinkled with lime is a highlight. The Tonkatsu is a house special, a pork cutlet with Japanese mustard barbeque sauce, shredded cabbage and miso soup. Open Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m.–2 p.m.; Mon.–Thu.,

3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417-851-1707. In addition to a large variety of sushi rolls, this menu also boasts rainbow-bright cocktails and seven types of ramen soups. Come with friends so you can share and sample lots of rolls. Open Sun.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. $$   • • •

SAKURA

3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000. There’s a solid sushi menu, and you can order a sushi donburi box to really get some bang for your buck. The bento boxes are packed with your choice of entree, California roll, rice, salad, miso soup, fruit, spring rolls, veggie tempura and ice cream. Open Tue.–Sun., 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. $$ 

WIFI • • •  ☎

SUSHI VILLAGE

1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8901016, facebook.com/springfieldsushivillage. This cozy sushi spot has a warm date-night atmosphere with cherry blossoms and plants around every corner. All the sushi is fresh and flavorful, but some custom creations pack fun ingredient combos. Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 4–9 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 4–10 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $$   WIFI • • •

KOREAN

BAWI KOREAN BBQ

4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-886-2777, bawikbbq.com. Bawi Korean BBQ brings an authentic Korean dining experience to Springfield, where you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 for an all-you-can-eat meal. You cook the meat yourself on tabletop grills. Be sure to try their to-go lunch options too, including bowls filled with rice, noodles, veggies and the protein and sauce of your choice. Open Mon.–Thu., 4–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat, 4–10 p.m.; Sun., 4–9 p.m. $$  • • •

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 bibim-

bap are best sellers here. We also love the fried dumplings and kimbop. Try the tasty kimchi fried rice or spicy octopus stir fry. If you’re in the mood for something really comforting on a cold day, opt for the kimchi chigae. Open Wed.–Mon., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $   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 japchae, made with slippery stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies. Don’t miss the zaru soba if you’re in the mood for something lighter. You can also find ramen, stir fried noodles, beef bulgogi dishes, wonderful steamed dumplings and much more. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

MEDITERRANEAN

GREEK BELLY

320 E. Walnut St., 417-597-3382, greekbelly.com. We love everything we’ve tasted here! Try a tasty pork or chicken gyro topped with creamy tzatziki, tomatoes, onions and French fries on a soft pita. Our favorite, though, is the loukaniko wrap. It’s an orange-spiced pork sausage served with spicy feta dip. Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

THAT LEBANESE PLACE

338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677. The kibbeh is fantastic if you like herbaceous eats, and any of the delicious and meaty kebabs is a great choice. We love the stuffed grape leaves appetizer, served with a delicious tahini dipping sauce. The falafel mushakal sandwich is great too, with falafel, baba ghanouj, French fries, fresh veggies, pickled turnips and tahini. There are plenty of options for diners with vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. For a delicious dessert, don’t miss the baklava made with Lebanese rose water. Open Tue.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $ – $$   • • •

VASKEN’S DELI

3200 Gretna Road, Suite D, Branson, 417-3349182, vaskensdeli.com. The gyros are fantastic here. Make sure you get them with traditional gyro meat, and don’t skip the tzatziki sauce! We are nuts for the beef shawerma too, though. It makes for a super delicious and satisfying meal and tastes amazing with tahini. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Extended summer hours. $   WIFI • • K

dishes like the fried avocado appetizer. It has beer-battered avocado halves filled with your choice of meat and topped with sour cream and chipotle ranch sauce. Open Sun. 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Mon.–Thu. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. $$   • • •

CANTINA LAREDO

1001 Branson Landing Blvd. , Branson, 417-3346052, cantinalaredo.com. Cantina Laredo is a great option if you’re exploring Branson and have a hankering for Mexican food. Located on Branson Landing, it has a great view of the fountain and Lake Taneycomo. Open Sun.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $$   • • •

CATRINA’S MEXICAN KITCHEN & CANTINA

2925 Battlefield Road, Suite 105, Springfield, 417350-1006, catrinascantina.com. Serving 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., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun., noon–9 p.m. $$

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. 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m., Mon.–Thu. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $$

CESAR’S OLD MEXICO

2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield , 4 17-881-8252. Indulge in authentic Mexican food at incredibly reasonable prices. We love the birria taco, which is filled with succulent shredded beef. The carnitas torta is also excellent. It’s huge and is stuffed with savory carnitas, topped with melted cheese, tomatoes, lettuce and mayo and then sandwiched between a pillowy bun. Need we say more? Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $   • • •

IGUANA ROJA

107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585, iguanaroja.net. There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery located on the square in Ozark. Our favorite is the margarita made with jalapeños; it has a kick that’s so much fun to drink. Tacos are super-tasty here, and the tortilla chips are sprinkled with a tasty seasoning blend. Open Tue.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. $–$$

LA PALOMA

MEXICAN VILLA

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

PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, 417-8237180; 3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417890-1212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com. Diners love the pollo abovado, an 8-ounce chicken breast that’s grilled and topped with homemade chorizo, white queso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos: three soft corn tortillas filled with steak, cilantro and onions and served with rice, beans and avocado. Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $–$$

PURPLE BURRITO

1700 S. Campbell Ave., Suite A, Springfield, 417863-6688. We love the street-style tacos. The pastor taco with onions and cilantro is great. And the fish tacos are some of our favorite fish tacos anywhere. A dinner favorite is the carne asada burrito. For something a little different and a lot indulgent, try the super-cheesy chili relleno burrito. Open Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $

SEÑOR JULIAN MEXICAN BAR & GRILL

3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-240-2120. This tiny restaurant packs big flavors, with a menu that features traditional Mexican soups, handmade-to-order flour tortillas, quesabirria tacos, massive quesadillas, fajita baked potatoes and more. Don’t miss the huge margaritas menu, featuring fun options like their mangonada margarita. Open Mon. 11 am.–9 p.m., Weds.–Thu. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $–$$

TEAM TACO

1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf.com. Let the ruby-red building be your guiding beacon to flavor-packed tacos, nachos and rice bowls. This tiny cafe serves major flavors in its set taco menu and tequila-focused cocktails. We’re fans of the Globetrotter pork belly taco, and we always have to taste test the Ringer, the shop’s weekly special taco. We also love the tequila- and mezcal-based cocktails that pair so well with those tasty tacos. Open Mon.–Sun., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $   • • • •

TINGA TACOS

MEXICAN

CABOS BONITOS GRILL & CANTINA

406 South Ave., Springfield, 417-221-3490. Come to this downtown Springfield spot for all your Mexican favorites plus some fun and unique

3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7194484, dienlapaloma.com; 1425 W. Battlefield St., Springfield, 417-889-2985, thelapaloma. com. This spot offers a huge range of Mexican dishes including fish tacos, which are excellent. Battered and fried fish is topped with fresh pic de gallo, cabbage and a creamy chipotle sauce and then served with Mexican white rice. Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.

308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8007, tingatacossgf.com. This downtown taco shop is open late slinging shells of its wildly creative combinations. We are partial to the Fu Yu made with super-flavorful marinated tofu or the Fruity Piggles with juicy pork and fig jam for a saltysweet combination. Sides are great too, with options like cheesy corn, jalapeno corn and great queso. Open Tue.–Wed., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Thu.–Sat., 11 a.m.–2 a.m. $   • • •

TORTILLERIA PERCHES

1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-864-8195. This tiny little authentic Mexican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a Mexican soda, a traditional Mexican soup or a tamale when you visit. Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays and Tamale Thursdays, where the dishes are only a dollar. This spot also sells jars of their supertasty salsa. Open Tue.–Fri., 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.–4 p.m. $    • •

PAN-ASIAN

OCEAN ZEN , please see listing on p. 99

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 21 next 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 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 4–8:30 p.m. $–$$

PIZZA

ARRIS’ PIZZA

1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-7260, arrispizzaonline.com. Thin-crust pizzas have a Greek flair at Arris’ Pizza. Be sure to order the Athena (a pizza made with feta, pepperoni, olives, mushrooms and green peppers) if you want to try one that bursts with flavor. The bruschetta is a great appetizer, and it’s unlike bruschetta we’ve had other places. Open Tue.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–2 p.m., 5–9 p.m. $–$$

THE BIG SLICE

1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com. You can get big New York–style brick oven pizza by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer, but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pizza. OWe love the creamy spinach pizza too, when we’re in the mood for a white pie. The gigantic pepperonis are a wonderful topping too. Open daily, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $–$$

CARMINE’S WOOD-FIRED PIZZA

524 South Joplin Avenue, Joplin, 417-691-8523, carmineswoodfiredpizza.com . You can find truly excellent New York–style, Neapolitan-style and Detroit-style pizza at Carmine’s. We love Neapolitan the best, and the La Rughetta topping combo (mozzarella, prosciutto, grape tomatoes, shaved Parmesan and arugula) is our favorite. Don’t miss the tasty calzones, pasta dishes, and gelato while you are there. Open Tues.–Thu. 3–8:30 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m. $$

GARBO’S PIZZERIA

2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-883-9010, garbospizzeria.com If you love a loaded St. Louis–style pizza, try the Grandiose. Or try the Bavarian pizza for something a little different; it is topped with Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. Open Wed., Thu., Sun. 11 am.–8 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $–$$

GODFATHER’S PIZZA

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 juicy perfection served with all the classic sides. Of course, if pizza is on the mind, this spot has every flavor and topping imaginable. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.

HOOK & LADDER PIZZA CO.

26 Downing St., Hollister, 417-336-4665, hookandladderpizza.com. If 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., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $$

IMO’S PIZZA

600 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-862-1222; 636 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-886-4667; imospizza.com. A true St. Louis–style original, Imo’s serves pizza on cracker-thin crust with lots of provel cheese. We like the tasty Deluxe pizza. But our favorite is the simple combo of mushrooms and Italian sausage. The cheesy bread is ridiculously indulgent and covered in a thick layer of melted provel cheese. Both locations open daily, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $–$$

MASO PIZZA BAR

3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1047

Maso Pizza Bar is owned by Nicola Gilardi and located just a few door down from his other restaurant, Nicola’s Ristorante. And just like at Nicola’s, everything on the menu is delish. We can’t wait to try options like the Nic Rise and Shine, Italian Stallion and vegetarian-friendly Monica Healthy pies. The menu also spans salads, panini, pasta, soups and more. Open Mon.–Sat., 3 p.m.–close. $$

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MCSALTY’S PIZZA CAFÉ

1550 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8834324. 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., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.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 joint: a family-friendly atmosphere, hearty Italian food and excellent Chicago-

style 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., 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $$ 

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 mixture of red sauce and olive oil, grilled chicken marinated in Cholula sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, red onions, cilantro. Also, be sure you try the meatballs. We really like the salads here as well. Open Mon.–Wed., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Thu.–Sat., 11 a.m.–2 a.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $–$$   • • •

THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB

2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-368-0277. With a menu full of pizza, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pub fare and a killer beer selection, there’s something to please everyone. We love to build our own pizza with alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. Be sure to order the brussels sprouts appetizer, which comes out super-crispy with sprouts, potatoes, lardons, goat cheese and a balsamic drizzle. Restaurant open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; pub open later. $

PIZANO’S PIZZA

106 E. Jackson St., Willard, 417-742-5115, pizanoandsauce.com. You can get a little bit of New York up in Willard at this pizzeria. This spot serves New York–style pizza in addition to calzones, sub sandwiches and pasta. Dough is made fresh daily, and there’s even a gluten-free option. Tue.–Fri., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat., 4–9 p.m. $–$$   • •

PIZZA HOUSE

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

This restaurant has been a tradition in Springfield for more than 50 years, and the pizza they serve is super-thin and cut into super-tiny pieces. It’s a classic that’s not to be missed and is a favorite of lifelong locals. Our favorite thing there: any pizza that includes bacon. Open Tue.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $   WIFI • •

ROCCO’S PIZZA & SUBS

Multiple 417-land locations; roccospizzaandsubs. com. This Italian eatery specializes in New York–style pizza that has anybody who’s been to the east coast swooning. It’s legit. Also on the menu are hot subs, like meatball or eggplant Parmesan, plus salads, calzones and a handful of pasta entrees. $–$$   • •

PUBS, LOUNGES & 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 extension of Springfield’s Andy B’s Bowl Social.

Andy B’s Tiki Bar has a view of Lake Taneycomo, where guests can order tiki drinks, beer and other drinks. We’re eying the “Pin Killer,” the bar’s take on a painkiller. Open Mon.–Sat. noon–8 p.m., Sun. 11:30 a.m.–8 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. We enjoyed the burgers, and the apps menu included some super tasty options. This spot is also known for its cauliflower pizza crust that is super-delish and perfect for anybody trying to avoid wheat Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.–midnight; Sun., 11 a.m.–11 p.m. $$ WIFI   • • •

THE CELLAR

507 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-351-2824, thecellar.springfieldbrewingco.com Created by the team behind Springfield Brewing Company (and located just 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 jerky while you sip on a craft cocktail and enjoy a rotation of live music. Open Weds.–Sun. 4–11 p.m. $  • • •

CELLAR + PLATE

2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-8942003, cellarandplate.com. Start your meal with the Romesco Gouda Dip: tomatoes, garlic, red peppers, paprika, almonds and smoked Gouda. Or try the Spanish meatballs. And as you might guess from the name, the wine selection is wonderful. Open Tue.–Thu., 4–8 p.m.; Fri., 4–11

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 6–10 p.m. at press time.  • • •

COYOTE’S ADOBE CAFÉ & BAR

1742 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8897120; 807 N. Main St., Nixa, 417-725-6803, coyotes4wings.com. This spot is known for its 40 flavors of chicken wings, from common (buffalo) to unexpected (tandoori spice). There are also tons of apps, sammies and entrees. Open Mon.–Thu., 10 a.m.–midnight, kitchen until 11 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.–1 a.m., kitchen until 11 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.–1 a.m., kitchen until 11 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.–10 p.m., kitchen until 9 p.m. $    WIFI • • • K •

ERNIE BIGG’S DUELING PIANO BAR

505 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-2393670, 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., 6 p.m.–12:30 a.m.; Sun., 6 p.m.–midnight.  WIFI

GALLOWAY STATION

1281 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-9730. We love the Rajun Cajun burger; it’s big, hearty and always delicious. Plus, we can’t get enough of the fries and freshly made potato chip. Order them with a side of the spicy ranch dressing for dipping. The chicken wraps are another longtime customer favorite at Galloway Station, and there’s a reason for it. It’s a classic. Kitchen open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–11 p.m $

THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB

137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-4255162, thegoldengirl.com. This tiki bar located right on the southwest corner of Park Central Square (with a great people-watching patio space) serves up handcrafted cocktails and a made-fromscratch, 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., 5 p.m.–1 a.m. $   WIFI • • • •

LINDBERG’S TAVERN

318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-868-8900, lindbergsbar.com. Forget about basic bar food. This storied watering hole goes above and beyond with creative takes on hearty comfort food classics. The burgers are delicious, but honestly everything we’ve tried has been impressive. The specials are always beautifully creative, and the Sunday brunch is one of the best around. Open Tue.–Sat., 11 a.m.–1:30 a.m.; Sun., 12 p.m.–midnight. $    WIFI • • • • V

OUTBACK PUB

1924 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-7003, outbackbranson.com. This Australian–inspired spot located along the strip in Branson boasts two bars, an outdoor party deck and extensive beer list. There is live music most evenings. What should you order to eat? We recommend you try the cornmeal-breaded catfish. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–1 a.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–midnight $   WIFI •

THE ROYAL

1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, 417-3513029, theroyalmusichall.com. This tiny and downright beautiful spot serves well-crafted cocktails, bottled cocktails and finger foods like warm olives or rosemary and bitters glazed nuts. The menu changes seasonally, so there is always something new to try. Be sure to visit when there is live music; the intimate setting makes for a great experience. Open Tues.–Thurs. 4–11 p.m.; Fri.–Sat. 4 p.m.–midnight. $ • • •

SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY

305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-832-8277, springfieldbrewingco.com. Try the fish and chips paired with the beers that are brewed on-site. Also delicious are the burgers and the mac and

cheese. Many dishes and desserts are made with Brew Co’s own beers, and sometimes you can buy canned cocktails made with Ty Iechyd Da spirits. Live music. Tue.–Sun.; kitchen open Sun., 9 a.m.–10:30 p.m; Mon.–Fri., 10 a.m.–10:30 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.–10:30 p.m.; bar close daily at 11:30 p.m. $$

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 Irish coffee with a Fat Boy’s ice cream sandwich. Open Weds.–Sat. 4 p.m.–close; Sun. noon–close. $ • • •

VINO

CELLARS WINE SHOP & LOUNGE

2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7731985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-773-1985, vcellars.com. Small plates, snacks and tapas make up the menu at this comfortable spot. Springfield open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. or later; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. or later; Branson West open Tue.–Thu., 10 a.m.–7 p.m. or later; Fri.–Sat., 10 a.m.–8 p.m. or later $ 

• 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., 11 a.m.–1:30 a.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–midnight; kitchen open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $

SEAFOOD & FISH

CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL , please see listing p. 98

ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT

Call for directions to the ranch in Rockbridge; 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com. This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that specializes in all things trout. The super-fresh fish dishes are made with trout that are caught on the property. We 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 8 a.m.–8 p.m. $

VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY

260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-851-1768; rooftopvantage.com. This rooftop bar at Hotel Vandivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and offers dining igloos in the winter. The cocktails are refreshingly creative, 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.–Weds. 4 p.m.–midnight, Thurs.–Sat. 4 p.m.–1 a.m. $$

WHITE RIVER FISH HOUSE

5 Bass Pro Drive, Branson, 417-243-5100, whiteriverfishhouse.com. The freshwater fish is great, especially the almond-crusted trout or cornmeal-fried catfish. Try the salt and pepper calamari for an appetizer, or dig into the seasonal smoked fish dip. You can also find non-fish dishes like burgers, fried chicken an barbecue ribs on the menu too. For dessert, order a slice of freshly baked homemade cobbler. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $$

STEAK

CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR , please see listing p. 98

FLAME STEAKHOUSE , please see listing p. 98

JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE , please see listing p. 99

LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE , please see listing p. 99

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 11 a.m. Closing time varies seasonally. $$

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. After your steakhouse dinner, hop over to the casino for some gaming fun. Open Sun.–Thu., 5–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 5–10 p.m. $$

RERICO BRAZILIAN GRILL

3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-881-8882, rericogrill.com. Are you a huge fan of all things meaty? Try 18 kinds of meat for dinner, all sliced tableside. Dinner comes with beef soup, soft rolls and unlimited trips to the cold bar with things like fresh cheese, pasta salads and more. Open daily at 11 a.m. Closing time varies seasonally $   WIFI •

SALTGRASS STEAKHOUSE

801 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-3340325, saltgrass.com This spot serves classic steakhouse fare, but with a bit of a Southwest cowboy twist. Try the center-cut filet topped with sautéed mushrooms, or the loaded cheese fries appetizer. If you’re in the mood for southern comfort food, they also have country fried steak. Open Sun.–Thu. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. $$–$$$

WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE

1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com . Come to Joplin’s Wilder’s Steakhouse to find steaks in all sizes and variet-

ies, 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., 5–9:30 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 5–10 p.m. $$$  •

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., 11 a.m.–2 p.m.; bakery open 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $  •

MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM AND VINTAGE SUITCASE

211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-886-7000, robinsvintagesuitcase.com. The daily specials and desserts are the star of this tearoom and pastry shop on Commercial Street. There is always a quiche and soup of the day, plus great desserts. Open Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m.–2 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Bakery is open Mon.–Fri., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $

WIFI •

SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM

107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331. The homemade desserts are to die for. Be sure to order them quickly before they run out—like you might want to order them before you order entrees! Don’t miss the veggie sandwich, the strawberry soup or the chicken salad. This place is hopping at lunchtime. . Open Tue.–Sat., 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m. $  • • K

THAI

RAMA THAI CAFÉ

1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-3204. This restaurant, located inside a charming old house on Historic Walnut Street, features a menu full of 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., 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 4–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m., 4–9:30 p.m.; Sun., noon–2:30 p.m., 4–9 p.m. $–$$

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., 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 4:30–9 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., 4:30–8:30 p.m. $–$$

THAI EXPRESS

92113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8650101, 417thaiexpress.com. When you visit this

friendly spot, don’t miss the Magic Noodle, mango curry chicken and volcano shrimp dishes. They are all tasty. The green curry is delicious, with a sauce so divine you might just want to drink it. (We admit: We’ve been tempted!) Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $   • •

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. We’re super-excited about the salad options, like the som tum (papaya salad) and the laab (ground chicken salad).When it’s in season, order the mango sticky rice dessert. Open Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. $

TONG’S THAI RESTAURANT

3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-889-5280. This spot serves up a menu packed with tasty Thai flavors, and the Esarn lettuce wraps are a longtime customer favorite. The fried basa with your choice of one of Tong’s yummy sauces is another fan fave. Don’t forget about the Thairito, a dish that’s unique to Tong’s. Full bar. Open Mon.–Fri., 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Mon.–Sat., 5–10 p.m. $–$$

WIFI • • • ☎

THE WHEELHOUSE

1845 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-430-0400, wheelhousefood.com. The pineapple fried rice is a fan favorite at this Thai-Mexican fusion spot, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Open Mon.–Thu., 6 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 6 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun, 6 a.m.–9 p.m. $

VIETNAMESE

BAMBU

1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8819881. The pho is a specialty here. You can add spice, herbs, jalapeños and sprouts to customize it. (Our favorite: Use all of the herbs, a couple of jalapeños and a squirt of Sriracha.) Don’t miss the bun bowls too! Open Mon.–Thu., 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–6 p.m. $

PHO KIM

3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8839999, phokimspringfield.com. Here you can fill up on Vietnamese staples like pho, spring rolls, bahn mi sandwiches and more at Pho Kim. We love the fresh spring rolls too. Open Mon. and Wed.–Sat., 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.–7:30 p.m. $

PHO SAIGON

2640 E. 32nd St., Joplin, 417-627-9966. Come to this spot to indulge in fresh spring rolls, vermicelli noodle bowls, and big helpings of pho. You can also order boba tea in several flavors with toppings like tapioca boba, coffee jelly, egg pudding, popping boba and more. Open Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m. $

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

RED SHOE GALA

Supporters of Ronald McDonald House Charities donned their best red shoes for an evening of dinner, dancing and fun. With live music by Jake Simpson, a selfie mirror photo booth and a red shoe contest, the event raised more than $200,000 to help children and families through Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks.

Date October 14

Host Organization

Ronald McDonald House Charities

Location

White River Conference Center

Attire Red shoes and formal wear

Sponsors

417 Magazine, A Special Guardian Angel, American National, Arvest, Central Bank of the Ozarks, CoxHealth, Dana & Gino Barbo, Hotel Vandivort, Howliday Inn Pet Resort, Mercy, McDonald’s of the Ozarks, The Eddie Marmouget Family, Tyson Foods, Youngblood Auto Group.

Michael & Brittany Evans

Rachel & Daniel Kopsas

Becca Lutz, Rhiannon Giddens, Kasey Giddens, Heather Pullen

Bill & Dawn Hennessey

Brandon & Hillary West

Noah & Alyea Alldredge

Linda & Mickey Moore

Martha & Scott Crise

Photos by Mary Ellen Chiles

SPS HALL OF FAME LUNCH

Springfield Public Schools Hall of Fame gathered to honor John C. Holstein and Anthony Tolliver, whose education in the Springfield Public Schools worked as a cornerstone of their outstanding success. Inductees were honored as inspirational examples for current SPS students to achieve success and strive to give back to their community.

Date October 20

Host Organization

Springfield Public Schools

Location White River Conference Center

Attire Semi-formal

Sponsors

417 Magazine, ADSmith, Community Foundation of the Ozarks, Drury University, Foundation for Springfield Public Schools, KY3, Mattax Neu Prater Eye Center, Ozarks Cocoa-Cola/Dr Pepper Bottling Co., Parkview High School Class of 1996, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce

Josh Groves, Bret Range Daellin Cook, Anthony Tolliver, Ethan Walker

Akarius Staten-Ballance, Dr. Rob Kroll Jeff Johnson, Jill Wiggins

Ben Hackenwerth, Tammi Harrington

Dr. Joann Hite, Shyam Rama

Natalie Murdock, Dr. Nicole Holt, Crystal Sharp Josh Scott, Scot Phillips

Photos by Kristin Knapton

Peak of Light

PHOTO BY RICKY HERNANDEZ | @RICK_LUIS_HERNANDEZ

Ricky Hernandez spent the weekend at the Pedestal Rocks trail in Pelsor, Arkansas, with his wife and close friend’s to explore and photograph the natural beauty of the trails. While hiking under the bluff overlooking the Pedestal Rocks he captured his friend’s silhouette. “I was drawn to this scene because of how the rock formations just framed my friend walking by and the fall scenery in the background,” Hernandez says.