417 Magazine | Summer on the Farm | May 2024

BIGGER, BETTER

Tony Garcia on Avanzare Italian Dining’s big expansion

TREAT YOUR MOM

Five fun ways to celebrate this Mother’s Day

24 places to embrace the simple pleasures of farm life in 417-land

Let us make your home uniquely you with our complimentary in-home design services and staging! With our wide selection of furniture styles and hundreds of fabric and leather options, your perfect look for your home will be fun to create. We’re here to help, and can’t wait to meet you!

LOGAN AGUIRRE Publisher logan@417mag.com

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

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

JAMI WIGHTMAN Senior Account Executive jami@417mag.com

JANELLE HAIK Senior Account Executive janelle@417mag.com

KAITLYN MESSINA Account Executive kaitlyn@417mag.com

BERNADETTE PRY O ce Manager bernadette@417mag.com

ERIN PAYNE Operations Coordinator epayne@417mag.com

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

KATHY GRIEVE Account Services Manager kathy@417mag.com

NICKI SHERWOOD Account Coordinator nicki@417mag.com

KATIE BATLINER Advertising Designer kbatliner@417mag.com

MCKENZIE ROBINSON Advertising Designer mckenzie@417mag.com

ELIZABETH VANFOSSON Digital Coordinator evanfosson@417mag.com

ACCOUNT SERVICES CONTRIBUTORS

Brandy Keltner, Christina Mullen, Jennifer Swenson, Leah Stiefermann, Morgan Lea Photography

[ FOUNDERS

GARY WHITAKER Founder gary@417mag.com

JOAN WHITAKER Founder joan@417mag.com

You can pick a bouquet of loo s at Stone ill lo er Farm. Read about this and other ays to ha e f n on the farm, starting on p. 66.

on the cover

The scenic barn perched on the hilltop at Sycamore Creek Family an h as the perfe t o er odel for this edition.

SUMMER ON THE FARM

66 There’s just something about the farm life in 417-land. Experience everything fro far fresh dinners and o er pi ing to arn dan es and s eet animal snuggles in our guide to spending summer on the farm.

WRITTEN BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

SEA AND SUN IN SAN DIEGO

80 Plan yo r geta ay fro 417-land to San Diego ith o r insider s ta e on hat to see and do in this sun-soaked coastal vacation hot spot.

WRITTEN BY SONY

HOCKLANDER

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Our annual Top Doctors issue hits ne sstands in ly, and feat res inning physi ians in edi al and surgical specialties througho t so th est isso ri, sele ted y their peers See ho tops the list before anyone else by subs ri ing no o get it deli ered to your mailbox, head online to 417mag.com/subscribe

LIFE

28 MOTHER OF ALL SURPRISES reat yo r o this other s ay ith these o tside the o a ti ities

32 SHELL YEAH

earn a o t the sea t rtle res e progra at onders of ildlife

33 MAKING MOVES ony ar ia, o ner of an are talian ining, shares hat is on the hori on for the resta rant s ne lo ation

36 SPRING INTO ACTION

et a ay to a oth Spring in r ansas to dis o er their gorgeo s state par trail and fish hat hery

39 SCHOOL’S OUT, LETS SHOUT eep yo r ids entertained this s er ith o r ro nd p of the est lo al a ti ities

41 DEVIL MAY CARE ill yo r ay alendar ith o r fa orite e ents and festi als happening aro nd land this onth

OUTSIDE

61 ALONG FOR THE RIDE

it the trails ith friends at o r ro nd p of the est lo al i e a ti ities for so ial rides

62 HOLD YOUR HORSES

ead to orseshoe anyon an h in north est r ansas for a day of o tdoor ad ent res

64 PORCH PERFECTION

a e a pee at ennifer ni s front por h, o plete ith oral pops of olor and soft ne trals

MAKE IT MEMORABLE

 Memorial Day Weekend is just around the corner, and there’s always plenty to do around 417-land when it comes to weekend activities. How about a lazy lakeside weekend? Or are you looking for a weekend getaway? Maybe you can get your steps in on a local trail. Or not

bother with the steps at all and just sit on a patio enjoying some sunshine and sips. Whatever yo re loo ing for to i o the s er, head to 417mag.com/memorialday for all your long weekend planning from restaurants to activities and events.

On the Blog

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

MOTHER’S DAY PLANS

Memorial Day Weekend isn’t the only important weekend to remember this month. Make sure you’re prepared for Mother’s Day by visiting 417mag.com/mothersday.

READY FOR LAUNCH

Hear from the women leading the business community into the future at Ladies Who Launch on July 18. Get your tickets at ladieswholaunch.biz417.com.

Photo by Sheri Holloway Photography

1. e lo ed getting to eet the fa ilies fro o r here to i e o iss e last onth ro goat feeding to playing foot all, e e een on so e f n ad ent res to apt re the essen e of the ar s

2. i e a holler for o r first perien e ad ent re t as f n to e plore s eni aterfalls ith yo and hi e thro gh the ea ty of land e re gearing p for o r ne t ad ent re in ne re yo ready

The Good Old Days

Snappin’ beans, riding horses and playing in the creek. These are some of my best summer memories of spending time on my grandma and grandpa Sullivan’s farm. For my brother it looked more like hauling hay, mending fences and anything else that involved working outside in the hot sun. As the granddaughter, I got out of most manual labor chores—and trust me, I played that card all day long. My brother still teases me about it.

He and I can both agree on one thing: Summers at their farm were the absolute best. We convinced my grandpa to let us treat his gas-powered mowers as four-wheelers and raced each other, albeit pretty slowly. Grandpa taught us how to drive by mowing a driving course for us in the pasture and letting us get behind the wheel of his big ol’ truck. We learned how to saddle and load up horses for trail rides. Grandma cooked every meal from scratch. I can still taste her per-

fect cornbread. These summers were simple. Simply the best.

The farm has long been sold. And my kids have summers that are amazing in di erent ways. They make awesome grandparent memories visiting grandparents in Florida or year-round with my parents here in town or at the lake. But thankfully we can give them a glimpse of the fun parts of farm life right here in 417-land. There’s no fence mending or hay hauling required but I sure do wish I could replicate that cornbread.

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

[ PUBLISHER’S NOTE

ELEVATE YOUR GRILLING GAME

SLOW DOWN

Last summer, my daughter Eloise and the two kiddos in her neighborhood girl gang found a nest of baby bunnies in our backyard. Or, more accurately, our labradoodle Piper found it. Piper found it, she loved it, and she immediately ate two of the baby bunnies. That alone would have been traumatizing for my animal-loving daughter, but she breezed past the horror to focus all her 7-year-old attention on the two bunnies left in the nest.

With the help of my dad, who was visiting, they fashioned a guard to place over the nest to keep the dog out while the bunnies could come and go as they pleased. Then, for a few days, Eloise and her friends obsessed over the little critters. They named them Carrot and Jumper, and they kept their eyes on them whenever possible. Then one day, the baby bunnies were gone. The girls decided the bunny mom had moved her nest. The adults quietly concluded that it was probably the work of a predator, but we didn’t say a word. I couldn’t break Eloise’s heart like that. We live in town, so the harsher realities of animal life don’t often show up in our backyard.

If we lived on a farm, that might be di erent. She might be more aware of—and less a ected by—the circle of life. As it stands, though, her experience with farm life features nothing but the good stu . And that includes baby animal play dates at Gooseberry Bridge Farm, where she and her friends can cuddle all the fuzzy little bunnies

they want—along with piglets, lambs and baby goats. It’s her favorite activity, and one our family has done three times, with more to come I’m sure. There she experiences the joy of animal life in a sweet farm setting, with Gooseberry’s family owners always nearby to answer questions. We’ve also taken in tiny moments of farm life at Millsap Farms, where we’ve thrown down a blanket in a little clearing to listen to live music and munch on freshly baked pizzas made with freshly picked produce. Did we have to put in the work to grow those veggies? No, but we sure are grateful that the Millsaps did, and that they invite 417-landers to their farm to enjoy them. Those are just two examples of local farms that open their gates and let visitors in to slow down a little and experience a few hours of sweet farm life. To learn about them and many more, read our “Summer on the Farm” feature, starting on p. 66.

My Favorite Page, 97

I will never, ever turn down a pizza topped with jalapeños, and this one from Cheri’s Happy Place at Metropolitan Grill was a stunner. My family loves going out for pizza on Friday nights after a long and exhausting week, and we’ve recently added this spot to our rotation.

Photo by Brandon Alms

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

WE’RE BLUSHING

I have such respect for everything 417 does. Your organi ation e e plifies the lifestyle etter than any other form of media, any chamber, any group. You took the torch that cast a beautiful light on our region, and you made the torch burn even brighter!

Brad Thomas, Silver Dollar City

Oh wow Thanks for this, Brad. We love 417-land, and we love sharing it with our audience. This little bit of feedback is major motivation to keep that love going month after month!—Editor

EXTRA EXCITING

Congratulations! I just read that 417 Magazine is a finalist for the Springfield rea ha er of omerce’s Small Business of the Year Award! What a great recognition of all the great work you and yo r tea do that a es a real di eren e in the community and region.

Brian Hammons, Hammons Black Walnuts

It is such an honor to be a finalist, and we can’t wait to find out early this month who the big winner is. Crossing our fingers Editor

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. HONOLULU, HAWAII

Dustin and Dr. Melissa Gaines traveled to Pearl Harbor in Hawaii with their copy of the “Ten Glamping Getaways” issue.

2. ZUGSPITZE, GERMANY

Tammy and David Sawyers traveled to Zugspitze Peak with their copy of the “Cool Down in Ozarks Caves” issue.

3. DUBLIN, IRELAND

Molly, Nick and Piper Hill traveled to the Guinness Brewery in Dublin, Ireland, with their copy of the “Insider’s Guide to Table Rock Lake” issue.

1. COCONUT BAY, ST. LUCIA

Matthew and Heidi Alger traveled to Coconut Bay with their copy of the “Where to Eat Now” issue.

2. PHANG NGA BAY, THAILAND

Denise Gibbs and Mike Hoag brought their copy of “The Ultimate Arts & Culture Guide” to Phang Nga Bay.

3. ANNA MARIA ISLAND, FLORIDA

llison, arter, er and e S hat brought their copy of the “Insider’s Guide to Table Rock Lake” issue to Florida.

4. MT. EVEREST, HIMALAYAS

Rikki Barton, Danielle Kincaid and Amy Baremore traveled to Mt. Everest with their copy of “The Ultimate Arts & Culture Guide” issue.

where’s 417?

1. LUCEA, JAMAICA

Richard, Elgin and Brenda James traveled to the Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton with their copy of the “Cool Down in Ozarks Caves” issue.

2. MÜRREN, SWITZERLAND

Jordan , Tobin and Scott Dunn traveled to Mürren, Switzerland, with a copy of the “Dining Day Trip” issue.

1. LAKE TANEYCOMO, MISSOURI

arla o an and Pa o son ent aya ing on Lake Taneycomo with their copy of the “Insider’s Guide to Table Rock Lake” issue.

2. SONOMA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA

Alexandria and Joseph Blackburn traveled to Sonoma County, California, with a copy of the “Where to Eat Now” issue.

3. ARUBA

Drew Pennington, Keaton Amstutz, Carson Amstutz, Shane Amstutz, Deb Carroll and Gary Amstutz traveled to Aruba with the “Where to Eat Now” issue.

 HEADS UP, 30

 TURTLEY AWESOME, 32

 ON THE MOVE, 33

go FETCH

Grab your four-legged friend and head to Bark in the Park for a day full of music, crafts and activities at Phelps Grove Park. Find more of this month’s events on p. 41.

best WAYS TO TREAT YOUR MOM

This year, do something extra special for your mom and book an activity that you can do together. We threw in some owers for mom too, because it is Mother’s Day after all.

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

Big Cedar Lodge offers brunch and dinner cruises on the Lady Liberty perfect for treating your mom to a special day.

Photo courtesy Big Cedar Lodge

1

LET HER PICK OUT A TREASURE

S hofield ray is hosting their other s ay nti e ift Bo ti e on ay n y li e ray on the ordland property that as his grand other s for er ho e, this seasonal aret is har ing to the a o ll find endors selling ho e d or, art, anti es and ore t s a great pla e to ander together and treas re h nt ind ore info at s hofieldgray o

2 BOOK A COOKING CLASS

earning a ne s ill is e en ore f n hen yo do it ith a ddy y yo r side talian it hen o ers hands on talian oo ing lasses, and re ent topi s ha e in l ded a ing fo a ia, a e gno hi, rafting talian readsti s and ore fter the lass, yo and o an ta e yo r s ills a to the rest of the fa ily and prepare a feast together ind ore info at fa e oo o italian it hen S

3 GO ANTIQUING TOGETHER

Ba oad eli s in Boli ar is only open three days ea h onth, t it s orth the ait his onth, it happens st in ti e for other s ay on ay a e yo r o to e plore the rated olle tion of anti es and other ho e d or ite s and let her pi o t the other s ay gift that spea s to her et a little so ething for yo rself, too, hile yo re there ind ore info at fa e oo o a roadreli s

4 SOAK UP THE SUN

f yo r o s a s n lo er and a la e lo er, oo her a little it of oth Big edar odge offers r n h and dinner r ises on the ady ierty, a l ry ya ht that departs fro a p ong ree for a pea ef l ride aro nd a le o a e o and yo r o an rela together ith the ater, the s n and so e good food to eep yo o pany on this pea ef l r ise ind ore info at ig edar o

5

DON’T FORGET THE FLOWERS

ay, this one s not an a ti ity, t it is the gift that eeps on gi ing i e yo r o a S er S o et s s ription fro Stone ill ar , so she an ha e fresh o ers all season long hen yo p r hase the S , yo s pport this lo al o er far , and in ret rn yo get ee ly o ets of the freshest o ers n the s er, the o ets in l de e erything fro dahlias and innias to her s ind ore info at stonehill o erfar o sa

agenda

This month’s theme is art in the outdoors, and 417-land has plenty to offer to get you out and into the sunshine.

BY THE EDITORS

nd art

ALONG THE TRAILS

There are a handful of trails in and near 417-land where you can spy art out in the wild while you’re getting your steps in.

Galloway Creek Greenway

Par yo r ar at the trailhead a ross the road fro Pershing iddle S hool, and start yo r tre so th to ard Se iota Par long the ay, yo ll see a o ple o tdoor s lpt res he first is a etal i y le lo ated here the green ay trail passes St a es pis opal h r h, st efore it rosses So thern ills Bo le ard he se ond is a larger than life s lpt re of a heel hair st so th of here the trail rosses o ington en e

Frisco Highline Trail  he art along this trail is part of ar reenays S lpt re r ise op on yo r i e to find se eral per anent or s of art, in l ding a gro p of fi e riders on olorf l i es that loo li e they are getting ready to oin yo along the trail

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art f yo re p for a road trip, head do n to Bentonille, r ansas, and isit rystal Bridges hese is s rro nded y iles of nat re trails, all peppered ith i pressi e or s of art he s per easy ile rt rail is a great one to start ith if yo ant to i ly spot se eral s lpt res

The

Photo o rtesy ar reen ays

Frisco Highline Trail is part of Ozark Greenways’ Sculpture Cruise and features the sculpture Whaley’s Ride.

ARTSY HOT SPOTS

Get a lot of art- lled bang for your buck in these three Spring eld areas where you can see a lot of art all in one place.

 Springfie Art se

o s the ti e to isit Springfield rt se e a se this elo ed lo al instit tion ill lose to the p li in Septe er in preparation for the enor o s fa ility pgrades that are part of the se s i pro e ent plan Before that

Dhappens, ta e in the art oth inside and o tside the se tside yo an see the fa o s ren h fries a a S n arget y ohn enry and se eral other ea tif l pie es

Farmers Park

hen yo head to ar ers Par to sto p at ar ers ar et of the ar s, don t forget to let yo r eyes ander past the endor ooths to ad ire the art aro nd yo here are se eral nat re inspired rals on the alls of the ar ers Par ildings, and a short stroll st so th

Commercial Street

eep yo r eyes peeled for olorf l rals on the sides of ildings as yo al or dri e thro gh the o er ial Street area here are so e f n ones e lo e the pretty p rple one o erral, and the inspiring o ood ral

The OG Collection

Is Sculpture Walk Spring eld the obvious choice for viewing outdoor art? Sure. And that’s because it offers a whole lot to love in downtown Spring eld—including some new installations you may not have seen yet.

o you ever wonder who’s behind all the incredible sculptures located in and around downtown Spring eld? Sculpture Walk Spring eld is a local organization that works to bring in incredible works from a variety of artists (some permanent, some part of annual installation updates). Through September, be sure to make time to visit the alley behind Hotel Vandivort to view Alleyscapes during Art Walk. The project is in partnership with the Hatch Foundation and features video art pieces projected onto that space from sunset to midnight, adding art to your nights out. This month’s Art Walk is on May 3.

The Johnny Morris Sea Turtle Center helps save stranded sea turtles.

From Stranded to Saved

Not all heroes wear capes. The heroes at The Johnny Morris Sea Turtle Center answer the call to rescue stranded sea turtles and nurse them back to health.

BY KALI SALAZAR

Greeted with salty air and a warm breeze, it feels as if you’ve stepped right onto the beach when entering the Johnny Morris Sea Turtle Center at Wonders of Wildlife. The mission of this center is to help stranded sea turtles ride the waves to healing through rescue, rehabilitation and nally, release. The rescue center began operating in 2020 after being contacted by NOAA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which acts as the coordinating body for connecting sea turtles stranded on the east coast to rehabilitation facilities around the country. Due to a record-breaking stranding event that year on the east coast, the New England Aquarium didn’t have enough room or resources to house and care for all the sea turtles that needed to be nurtured back to health. The team at Wonders of Wildlife wanted to help, so they jumped in and agreed to

accept the turtles. The turtles were then own to Spring eld by Turtles Fly Too, a nonpro t network of pilots who donate their time and resources to move turtles to rehabilitation facilities, and the program o cially began helping stranded sea turtles.

According to Mike Daniel, Director of Animal Care at Wonders of Wildlife, a sea turtle can become stranded due to cold weather changes that a ect the temperature of the ocean. “When the temperature drops below the 50s, their bodies will literally slow down and they have problems swimming,” says Daniel. “They will oat and are more likely to be hit by a boat, lose their ability to navigate and swim and wash up on the beach.” These turtles are also more susceptible to certain diseases, specifically pneumonia.

When the turtles rst arrive in aquatic holding at Wonders of Wildlife, they are quarantined to

ensure that no parasites or diseases spread to other turtles in the facility. After that, Daniel explains that the turtles are put into divided tanks based on their species. The three species of sea turtles brought to the facility consist of loggerheads, greens and Kemp's ridleys. After this placement, the rehabilitation journey begins. One part of this process involves giving each turtle a subdermal microchip or a “pit tag” so they can be monitored after release to prevent future stranding. In addition to the microchips, the turtles are given high quality food to help them regain their strength. Once a turtle begins eating aggressively and can successfully capture and eat live prey put into the tank, the veterinarians assess if they are ready for release.

The amount of time a turtle is in the rescue center can vary, but most are ready for release between three and four months in Daniel’s experience. NOAA facilitates where the turtles will be released after rehabilitation based on the turtle’s size, age and species. They also consider environmental factors such as the condition of the beach, water temperature and weather. In the last four years of operation, the Johnny Morris Sea Turtle Center has rescued, rehabilitated and released 46 sea turtles back into the wild and currently has 16 turtles in their care.

While the turtles cannot be viewed by the public due to their critical condition, Daniel says that they can “become ambassadors for their species” by helping to raise awareness about the importance of protecting sea turtles and their environments in any way we can. Looking ahead, Emily Little, Marketing Communications Coordinator for Conservation Attractions, says Wonders of Wildlife is excited for the opportunity to continue to help sea turtles and other endangered species so that future generations can enjoy these amazing animals.

How You Can Help

hile yo an t ol nteer to help the t rtles dire tly at the Sea rtle enter, there are still any ays to gi e a to this progra

Shopping Support

Be a se the Sea rtle enter is f nded y the Bass Pro and a ela s tdoor nd, yo an ro nd p yo r total on Bass Pro p r hases to raise f nds for onser ation

Mindful Living

nother ay to s pport the t rtles is to e indf l of the nat ral reso r es yo se, the inds of prod ts yo p rhase and ho yo dispose of har f l prod ts

Photo o rtesy onders of ildlife

To Push Forward

Tony Garcia, owner of Avanzare Italian Dining, is currently hard at work getting ready for the restaurant’s new location set to open later this month. We caught up with him between prepping pasta and taking meetings to re ect on the restaurant’s past and future.

BY TESSA COOPER

In Italian, Avanzare means “to push forward.”

The restaurant industry is notoriously challenging, and we often see quality establishments close too soon. Judging by the fact that Avanzare Italian Dining has been in business for 22 years and is expanding to meet its increasingly popular demand, we say it lives up to the name. The restaurant’s current 320-square-foot location at 1908 South Glenstone Avenue seats 100 guests max, and the new 1,200-square-foot location that’s on track to open later this month will accommodate more than 250 guests.

Tony Garcia owns Avanzare, but he’s quick to credit much of the restaurant’s success to his family. He initially opened it with his brothers, Jesus “Chuy” and Mauricio Garcia.

Mauricio was formerly the restaurant’s pastry chef but has since moved, while Chuy is now the executive chef. Tony’s wife, Carmen, oversees behind-the-scenes business operations such as payroll and tip-outs, while his parents, Marta Padilla and Gregorio Garcia, help with bread and pasta noodle preparation.

While Tony originally planned on keeping the current location and selling the concept when he retired, that plan changed when his kids started showing interest in the family business. This new expansion will help the next generation of the Garcia family guide Avanzare through another 20-plus years. Two of Tony and Carmen’s children, Yahairia (25) and Antonio (19), already hold manager positions at the restaurant.

Tony relocated from Chicago to Spring eld in 1998 to accept a position at Ristorante Teatro. “I like my 20-minute city,” Garcia says. “Spring eld is a good place for [raising] family, and that’s one of the main reasons I stayed here.”

He admits that sourcing quality ingredients can be a bit challenging in Missouri. “I have to import a lot of my ingredients, like the olive oil, prosciutto, salami and cheese,” he notes. “It can become really expensive, but the good quality is totally worth it. My food is pretty simple. I don’t really complicate it too much, but I use the highest quality ingredients I can nd for my customers.” He began honing his cooking skills while working at Tuscany

he ar ia fa ily has in ested their ti e and reso r es for an are into the Springfield onity at oth their old and ne lo ation

Restaurant in Chicago’s Little Italy neighborhood. Later, when he started working at Chicago’s popular ne dining restaurant, Coco Pazzo, he got the chance to train under a chef from Tuscany.

It’s no surprise that the menu at Avanzare has a North Tuscan in uence. You won’t nd heavy, cheese-laden pasta there. Instead, you get to choose from fresh dishes with brighter avors. For example, the pan-seared chicken breast comes with myriad whole food ingredients, including artichokes hearts, mushrooms and kalamata olives, and it all rests on a bed of pesto mashed potatoes with roasted vegetables. Fruits of the sea, like shrimp, mussels, salmon and lobster, also dominate the menu. “North-Tuscan style is a lot more Mediterranean style,” he says. “They use more olives, capers, fresh vegetables and fresh herbs like basil. They also cook with a lot of seafood, which is what we do [at Avanzare].”

While the location is changing, Tony wants to assure his customers that their favorite dishes won’t be going anywhere and the main oor’s menu will stay primarily the same. However, the expanded space will allow Avanzare to provide new dining experiences to its customers. For starters, they plan on o ering frequent wine-pairing dinners in the wine cellar. At the bar, you’ll be able to order from a new tapas menu. Additionally, the restaurant will be open seven days a week and will operate under expanded hours on Sundays with lunch specials.

The Garcias are excited to o er more to the Spring eld community. “Our customers have become our friends and also our family,” Tony says. “That’s what is so unique about this place. I have so many customers who I can just call up.”

e spent ti e horsing aro nd ith o r ne est friend at assidy Station See ore photos of far f n starting on p

what we LEARNED

learned that I can get one step closer to my dream of owning chickens with funny haircuts y isiting oose erry Bridge ar an t ait to go sn ggle all of the —Editorial Designer Grace Chipley (read “Summer on the Farm” on p. 66)

“I learned how many cool spots there are for kids to visit during summer. ish had all these options gro ing p, t etter late than ne er definitely p t ini golfing on y st do list —Editorial Intern Em Blackstone (read “Schools Out. What Now?” on p. 41)

a a longti e fan of the food at an are espeially the to die for fr tti di are , t I had no idea so many of Owner Tony Garcia’s family members contribute to making the restaurant so dang good t s ite the fa ily a air really loo ing for ard to isiting again hen the ne lo ation opens this onth —Editorial Director Katie Pollock Estes (read “To Push Forward” on p. 37)

“I a e cite to earn a o t so an i erent ar s that are thriving in 417-land. a so pleased to see these far s help s stay onne ted to o r agri lt re heritage —Biz 417 Editor & Managing Editor Dori Grinder (read “Summer on the Farm” on p. 66)

espite eing iles fro the shore, ho ne e o ld help save the sea turtles right here in 417-land? lo ed learning a o t he ohnny orris Sea rtle enter —Research Editor Jo Jolliff (read “From Stranded to Saved” on p. 38)

417 DAY

WE CAN’T STOP TALKING ABOUT

r tea st finished p ele rations for ay his year e ele rated y r nning aro nd to n to share our gratit de ith lients and o nity partners and ended the day as a tea at olley all Bea h ar for drin s and a fe opetiti e ga es

Photo

Mammoth Spring Awaits

Just across the Missouri-Arkansas border is the charming town of Mammoth Spring. It’s home to a natural marvel: the largest spring in Arkansas and one of the top 10 in the world. Mammoth Spring State Park has a variety of attractions including Arkansas’ oldest railroad depot. Trout shing on Spring River, which meanders through the city, is renowned. This little community makes a perfect quick trip for families, sherman or outdoor enthusiasts.

BY JULIANA GOODWIN

1 SEE THE SPRING 

Mammoth Spring (17 Highway 63, Mammoth Spring, Arkansas) o s at an a a ing rate of illion gallons per ho r o an t see the spring e a se it e erges feet elo ater le el t the par entran e, the roar of as ading ater o es fro re ains of a ill, da and hydroele tri plant he ridge a o e the da is a great pla e to pa se a idst the par s e panse, hi h in l des a playgro nd, a pi ni area, s eni aling trails, a annon and histori al ar ers

2

VISIT THE HATCHERY

a oth Spring ational ish at hery and ati onser ation enter (302 Fish Hatchery Lane, Mammoth Spring, Arkansas) is al ing distan e fro the par sta lished in , the federal hat hery is one of the oldest in the nation t prod es rain o tro t, striped ass, la e st rgeon, alleye and s all o th ass for restoration sto ing a e a self g ided to r aro nd the isitor enter, hi h oasts a ariety of a ari s tside, stroll aro nd the hat hery pods

Find C f t in Our

3 CAST A LINE AT THE RIVER 

pop lar spot for tro t and alleye fishing, Spring i er is the perfe t spot to oat too ording to the r ansas epart ent of Par s and o ris , the spring a es this one of the state s est year ro nd oating destinations e a se ater le els don t drop as h as other ri ers, than s to the spring s onsistent ater o tp t he ater is ool year ro nd, hi h is great for tro t and an s pport a healthy tro t pop lation for iles do nstrea

4 EXPLORE A DEPOT 

ris o epot se is another attra tion at the par n , the ansas ity, ort S ott e phis ailroad started ser i e thro gh this to n, stopping at the red i torian era depot no a se t o ers a fas inating loo into the past here are lifeli e fig res that depi t train re and s enes fro a ygone era rtifa ts inl de a hinery, a andatory olor lindness test for railroad e ployees, a telegraph a hine, l ggage arts, s it ases and ore

TRIP LENGTH

ne night

DIRECTIONS

ho rs and in tes fro Springfield ia S and S S

DON’T FORGET TO PACK

S ns reen to e plore the par and ri er

5 GRAB A BITE TO EAT

ood s i er end esta rant (80 Main St., Mammoth Spring, Arkansas) is a as al eatery ith do n ho e food and a fa lo s ie Per hed a o e the Spring i er, the de is a onderf l spot to en oy l n h he en is f ll of diet sters li e fried atfish, roast eef and ashed potatoes, hi en fried stea ith hite gra y, o on t rea pie, ar e e, s eet tea and ore ro a ed eans to h shp ppies and orn read, there are plenty of options for daily spe ials

Swann Dermatology Partners offers the Emsella treatment at our Independence location here in Springfield! This unique technology revolutionizes pelvic floor muscular strength, improving urinary & sexual function. Those suffering from incontinence after pregnancy or with age now have a completely non-invasive option which has the support of several urological studies and high customer satisfaction.

6 Quick Treatments

Painless & Non-Invasive FDA Cleared Treatment

Emsella is a first of its kind technology; it is able to painlessly contract and fasciculate pelvic floor muscles 11,200 times in a 28-minute session. For more information or to find out if Emsella would be a good choice for you, see contact information below!

JAG,s Lawn & Landscape

Wil Shrable, one of the owners of JAG’s Lawn and Landscape, and his team recently spearheaded an impressive home transformation project. Tasked with creating a functional and inviting space for entertaining, the JAG’s team crafted a paver patio adorned with a wood replace, an outdoor island and a retaining wall with steps. Over the course of three weeks, they worked to bring the client’s vision to life.

The result is a dramatic departure from the previous landscape, which featured uninspiring rock steps. Now, the homeowners have a peaceful outdoor retreat where they can entertain guests or simply unwind in the evenings.

Key elements of the transformation include Anchor block by Belgard for the walls and columns, a Bristol Series replace by Belgard complete with hearth and wood boxes and Origins 12 pavers, also by Belgard. Concrete caps from Rite Way Concrete and FX Luminaire light xtures add the perfect nishing touches.

JAG’s Lawn and Landscape specializes in hardscape, landscape, and irrigation installation. In this project, JAG’s turned what was once an undesirable space into the homeowners’ favorite destination—a cozy spot for relaxation by a crackling re and joyful gatherings with loved ones.

School’s Out. Now What?

Craft a memorable summer for your children and explore this list of educational and entertaining spots around Spring eld. From hands-on learning activities to skill-building experiences, ll the season with lasting memories your kids won't forget.

BY EM BLACKSTONE

EXPLORE LOCAL MUSEUMS

SPRINGFIELD ART MUSEUM

(1111 E. Brookside Drive, Springfield; 417-8375700; sgfmuseum.org)

Admire the vast collection of art, or participate in classes and workshops for pre-k, school-aged children and teens ho are interested in all things art

HISTORY SE ON THE S ARE 

(154 Park Central Square, Springfield; 417-8311976; historymuseumonthesquare.org)

Explore eight interactive galleries that unravel the history of Springfield and the region he their calendar for special summer events.

IS O ERY ENTER

(438 E. St Louis St., Springfield; 417-862-9910; discoverycenter.org)

Come and gain hands-on learning experiences with science, technology, engineering and mathematics activities for kids of all ages.

GET IN TOUCH WITH YOUR ARTSY SIDE

ARTISTREE POTTERY

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

Craft your pottery piece while enjoying delicious food o their o th atering en

IREHO SE POTTERY

(4150 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; 417-881-8381; firehousepottery.com)

Keep pottery easy and fun for any age. Enjoy a stress-free time with simple tips that elevate your art to a professional level. Dive into the wide variety of special event packages.

ART ZONE

(840 Guin Road., Nixa; 417-224-9816; artzonenixa.com)

Enjoy easy walk-in pottery painting, enticing party packages and an abundance of art camps for kids of all ages to unleash their inner artist.

CATCH A ROUND OF MINI GOLF

GETA AY GOL

(3833 E. State Hwy D, Springfield; 417-881-4653; getawaygolf.com)

Enjoy two 18-hole courses with an array of yard games and snacks. Don’t miss Wednesdays, where ids golf half o

BIG SHOTS GOLF

(1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield; 417-427-3040; bigshotsgolf.com)

Play in one of 56 tee boxes for people of all ages and skill levels. After your game, enjoy a variety of yard ga es and sna s and o y p y the fire pits

SHOOT FOR THE STARS MINI GOLF

(3110 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson; 417-337-8700; shootforthestarsminigolf.com)

Walk the path of fame by touring Hollywood's most iconic landmarks while this entertaining 18hole o rse g ides yo r along

INTRODUCING VIP ALL ACCESS

UPGRADE YOUR

Enhance your wellness with our VIP All Access Membership at Sun Tan City. Enjoy exclusive benefits and access to all our services including UV tanning, sunless tanning, red light therapy and luxurious SPA equipment, with no commitment or annual fees.

Join today and indulge in VIP treatment!

Six Locally Owned Locations in Springfield, Ozark and Nixa suntancity.com

MAY CALENDAR

From live music to festivals, you won’t want to miss these events.

BY KALI SALIZAR

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK

MAY 3

Experience art from local artists, galleries and more at the monthly art walk downtown. This free and self-guided tour is available to all art lovers looking for inspiration or to enjoy local pieces in 417-land.

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

GOLDEN GIRLS: THE LAUGHS CONTINUE

MAY 3

The Golden Girls are making their way to Springfield ia i s sassiest seniors ill eep yo entertained and laughing all night long with their stories, comedic genius and so much more. Relive the good ole’ days with the four girls who have been your friends all along the way.

45–80; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall, 525 South John Q Hammons Parkway, Springfield. To purchase tickets, visit hammonshall.com and navigate to the show.

BRYCE STANLEY

MAY 3–4

As one of the Midwest’s fastest rising comics, Bryce Stanley is sure to keep you entertained with his unpredictable yet laid back comedy style. Stanley is also the co-founder of the Midwest’s premier rural comedy tour, Dirt Road Comedy. Attend this e ent and e a part of a li e re ording of the sho

20–25; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/events.

SPRINGFIELD BALLET’S ALICE IN WONDERLAND

MAY 3–5

nspired y e is arroll s no el, Springfield Ballet presents Alice in Wonderland. Revamped and even more eccentric, this is a show you won’t want to iss he e eptionally talented dan ers ring yo an unforgettable ballet experience.

28–38; 7:30 p.m.; Landers Theatre, 311 East Walnut Street, Springfield. For tickets, visit springfieldballet.org/Alice-In-Wonderland or call 417862-1343.

Don't miss this month's Springfield ardinals games at Hammons Field. Find more info on p. 47.

MORGAN WADE– CROSSING STATE LINES

MAY 4

Experience raw, talented and beautiful vocals from one of Nashville’s fastest-rising young stars, Morgan Wade, at Gillioz Theatre. With a little bit of twang and a whole lot of talent, Wade has quickly made her mark on the country music scene. Don’t miss her passionate and vulnerable show as she a es her ay to Springfield

35–65; 8 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E, Springfield. To purchase tickets, visit gillioztheatre. com and navigate to the events tab.

SPRINGFIELD CRAFT BEER BASH 2024

MAY 4

t s ti e for the Springfield raft Beer Bash

Sample over 100 craft beers, enjoy live brewing demonstrations, watch live entertainment and more. There will also be food trucks, ax throwing, a cigar bar and custom burned hats.

25–50; 6 p.m.; The Barley House at Moon Town Crossing, 3060 North Kentwood Avenue, Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit eventbrite. com and search for the event.

30 courtesy slips & unlimited parking FIND

Largest dining facility oating on the water

Fast, fresh meals

11 a.m.–8 p.m.

344 Nautical Circle

Kimberling City

pier28pizzagrill.com

CINCO DE MAYO PUB CRAWL

MAY 4

Spice up your Cinco De Mayo with a Pub Crawl fro P pioneers a e yo r ay to the est ars aro nd Springfield for food and drin spe ials yo on t find any here else ra your amigos and get ready for the best Cinco De Mayo yet.

5–10; 5 p.m.; various bars around Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit eventbrite.com and search for the event.

 ARTSFEST

MAY 4–5

rts est is a again for another great year n oy products and art from over 100 artists, live entertainment, delicious food and drinks, local makers and so much more. Grab your friends and head to aln t Street for a day f ll of f n and all things art

5; all day; East Walnut Street, Springfield. Visit springfieldarts.org/artsfest for more information on vendors and performances.

TAYLOR MASON

MAY 5

Blending observational humor, musicianship, exceptional ventriloquism and magic, Taylor Mason has taken his show from Carnegie Hall all the way to The Sydney Opera House. Mason’s original act is sure to keep you entertained all evening with his hilarious and unforgettable spin on ventriloquism.

25–30; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield.

For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/ events.

417 SALSA FEST!

MAY 5

t s al ost ti e for Salsa est ead to eli s to sample salsa from the area’s best restaurants and private cooks, and enjoy delicious Hispanic treats, shopping and salsa music. This is an event yo r taste ds an t a ord to iss

5; 1 p.m.; Relics Antique Mall, 2015 West Battlefield Road, Springfield. For more information, call 417-300-1985.

Photo by Miles Boyer Photography

WE DO ALL THE LIFTING

Lift certified OR suite

Lift procedures can address the after e ects of weight loss medications. Learn about the newest HD Lipo 360 techniques to enhance your results

Experience Excellence.

Surgery is performed in our private, Schedule your consultation today.

GIGS IN THE GARDEN 

MAY 5

Sit back and relax as you listen to local and regional musicians amongst the beauty of nature at Gigs in the Garden. There will also be beer and wine available for purchase to enjoy while listening to the music.

Free; 2 p.m.; Springfield Botanical Garden. For more information, visit parkboard.org/calendar.

JEFF ALLEN

MAY 9

fter al ost fi e de ades as a o edian, e Allen is no stranger to the comedy scene. Appearing on many shows across multiple strea ing platfor s, e s h or a o t e eryday life, the ups and downs of marriage, the challenges of raising kids and so much more brings laughter to audiences of all ages.

35–45; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/events.

LEGACY REUNION EARTH WIND & FIRE ALUMNI

MAY 10

Listen to monster grooves, high-energy tunes and dance-worthy hits during The Legacy Reunion Earth, Wind & Fire Alumni concert. Enjoy music from some of the greatest musicians on the scene performing jazz, disco, R&B, soul and pop.

46–195; 8 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E, Springfield. To purchase tickets, visit gillioztheatre.com and navigate to the events tab on their website.

GINGER BILLY

MAY 10–11

At home in his life in rural Upstate South Carolina, he’s known as Adam Perkins, but online, he’s more widely known as Ginger Billy. Tattooed and shirtless in most of his videos, Ginger Billy gives viewers a humorous look into his life. With several viral videos, his humor is sure to keep you laughing all evening long.

35–50; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/events.

ROUNTREE HISTORICAL HOUSE TOUR

MAY 10–11

o r fi e histori ho es and gardens d ring the o ntree istori al o se o r is o er diverse forms of architecture, design, restoration and preservation. Take the walking tour at your own pace as you dive into these historic homes in 417-land.

15; 6 p.m.; Rountree Neighborhood, 1010 South National Avenue, Springfield. Visit eventbrite. com and search for the event for more details.

SPRINGFIELD SYMPHONY: #THESLEEPINGBEAUTY

MAY 11

ro the Springfield Sy phony r hestra and Saint Louis Ballet comes The Sleeping Beauty concert. Full of enchantment, this concert takes you through the tale of the princess and her kingdom as they wait a century for a magical kiss.

35–74; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall, 525 South John Q Hammons Parkway, Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit springfieldsymphony.org/tickets.

MOTHER’S DAY AT THE ZOO

MAY 12

Grab your mom and head to Dickerson Park Zoo this Mother’s Day weekend with free admission for all moms. Spend the day with wild animals, grab a tasty treat and more, all while celebrating the special moms out there.

Free; all day; Dickerson Park oo, 1401 West Norton Road, Springfield. For more information, visit dickersonparkzoo.org.

Photos o rtesy Springfield Sister sso iation, y ol y oore Photography

SPRINGFIELD CARDINALS GAMES

MAY 14–19, 21–26

See the Springfield ardinals ta e on the idland RockHounds and Tulsa Drillers this month at the Cardinals home games. Enjoy some pretty cool promos like Purina Woof Wednesday, Friday night fire or s and ore thro gho t the onth as ell

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

JOSH GATES LIVE! AN EVENING OF LEGENDS, MYSTERIES, AND TALES OF ADVENTURE

MAY 16

Join talk show host, author and explorer Josh Gates from Discovery Channel for an evening of adventure. You will visit locations all over the world as Gates tells you stories from far away places. Enjoy a unique evening of legends, mysteries and tales of adventure.

40–160; 8 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall, 525 South John Q Hammons Parkway, Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit springfieldsymphony.org/tickets.

SHANE TORRES

MAY 16–18

As a writer, podcaster, actor and standup comedian, Shane Torres has quite the resume to pull from for his hilarious comedic performances. Coming all the way from Brooklyn, he’s ready to entertain you with the same skills and experience that got him onto shows like Last Comic Standing, Half Hour Special with Comedy Central and more.

20; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/events.

WESTERN SWING DANCE

MAY 16–18

Head to Shrine Mosque for a Western Swing an e yo on t forget ra yo r dan e partner for a day of music, grooving and moving your body to the beat of western swing dance music.

10 a.m.; The Shrine Mosque, 601 East Saint Louis Street, Springfield. For more information, visit theshrinemosquespringfield.com/events.

MOTHER’S DAY FESTIVAL 

MAY 18

Grab your mom and head to Mother’s Day Festial y other s Bre ing o pany n oy li e a s, great food, community and lots of beer while you celebrate the special women in your life.

Prices vary; 1 p.m.; Mother’s Brewing Company, 215 South Grant Avenue, Springfield. For more information, visit Mother’s Brewing Company on Facebook.

SWIFT: A TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT

MAY 18

Enjoy Taylor Swift like never before with the dyna i tri te and S ift erse yo rself in deep ts, a night filled ith top hits, si al talent and so much more. Enjoy stunning video wall production that makes the music come alive. Don’t iss it

35–40; 7 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E, Springfield. To purchase tickets, visit gillioztheatre. com and navigate to the events tab.

JITTER JAM

MAY 18

It’s almost time for the Farmers Market of the ar s itter a esti al Sa ple o ee, tea, breakfast and more at this fan favorite. Receive an e l si e o ee g pon registration and get ready to sa or the a ors

18–28; 9 a.m.; Farmers Market of the Ozarks, 2144 East Republic Road, Ste. B103, Springfield. For more information, visit loveyourfarmer.com and navigate to the events tab.

 BARK IN THE PARK

MAY 18

Grab your four-legged friend and head to Bark in the Park for a day full of music, crafts and activities at the Canine Vendor Village. There will be Cruse Dog Park t-shirts and tasty goodies for purchase. Proceeds will go to Cruse Dog Park.

Free; 10 a.m.; Phelps Grove Park, 950 East Bennett Street, Springfield. For more information, visit parkboard.org/calendar.

Providing hope and transforming lives for children 6-17 in crisis.

Help is here 24/7/365

CHICAGO THE BAND LIVE IN CONCERT 

MAY 20

s the first eri an ro and to hart op albums in six consecutive decades, Chicago is hailed as one of the most legendary bands in music history. This rock and roll band with horns is sure to lift your spirits as you rock out and sing along to all your favorite songs.

94–722; 7:00 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall, 525 South John Q Hammons Parkway, Springfield. For tickets and more information, visit hammonshall.com.

JAY CHANDRASEKHAR

MAY 23–25

With experience as a director, writer, actor and comedian, Jay Chandrasekhar has appeared on many riti ally a lai ed tele ision progra s and fil s throughout the entirety of his career and now travels the U.S. as a standup comedian. Coming all the way from Los Angeles, Chandrasekhar is ready to make you belly laugh at Blue Room Comedy Club this month.

20–30; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/events.

URIAH HEEP & SAXON: HELL, FIRE, AND CHAOS TOUR

MAY 24

Headlining many major rock festivals all over the world, URIAH HEEP and SAXON are now making their way to 417-land. Touring to showcase their new studio album, SAXON continues to gro and pro ises to ro yo r so s o ith URIAH HEEP as they play all the classics.

35–45; 7:30 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central E, Springfield. To purchase tickets, visit gillioztheatre.com and navigate to the events tab.

 41ST ANNUAL NSRA MID-AMERICA STREET ROD NATIONALS

MAY 24–26

Head to the Ozark Empire Fair for the 41st Ann al S id eri a Street od ationals Enjoy commercial exhibitors, a swap meet, Autocross, Streets of Rods, contests and so much more.

6–45; 8 a.m.; Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 North Grant Avenue, Springfield. For more information, visit nsra-usa.com.

Photo courtesy Juanita K. Hammons Hall

KAM PATTERSON

MAY 31–JUNE 1

Kam Patterson went from a humble beginning to a rising comedy star after appearing on the Kill Tony show. His quick wit and comedic timing have thrown this rising star into the spotlight and he’s sure to make you laugh out loud.

25–30; showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W College St, Springfield. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com/events.

SPRING RIVER PIONEER DAYS

MAY 31–JUNE 2

ead to erona for the first ann al Spring ier Pioneer ays he festi ities ill in l de a street dance, stagecoach rides, re-enactments, a staged an ro ery, a a pfire and s ores and ore here ill also e endors ith products and gifts available for purchase.

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

GUYS AND DOLLS

MAY 31–JUNE 16

Get ready for a crowd pleaser and one of the best musical comedies of all time, Guys and Dolls. Infused with drama from a tense engagement, a gambling plan and a strait-laced missionary, Guys and Dolls takes you from Havana to the sewers of New York City and beyond.

22–42; showtimes vary; Landers Theatre, 311 East Walnut Street, Springfield. For tickets, visit springfieldlittletheatre.org or call 417-869-1334.

Nestled in the heart of Springfield, Missouri, the Gillioz Theatre shines as a symbol of cultural vibrancy and historical preservation. As it approaches its monumental 100th anniversary in 2026, the Gillioz goes beyond its role as a venue, proving to be a well-loved institution dedicated to fostering artistic expression and a sense of community.

The nonprofit theater is committed to the preservation of its storied building, ensuring that it remains a focal point for generations to come. Beyond entertainment, the Gillioz serves as a hub for art advocacy, welcoming intergenerational audiences to experience the power of live performance.

“Welcoming intergenerational audiences to experience the power of live performance.”

Since its inception in 1926, the Gillioz has curated an eclectic array of events, from acclaimed films to uproarious comedy and soul-stirring music. Every show is a cherished memory waiting to be made, a sentiment shared by its dedicated staff, who aim to create unforgettable experiences for the community.

Drawing visitors from far beyond the region, the Gillioz Theatre’s diverse programming caters to all tastes, ensuring that there is something for everyone within its intimate setting. With a national reputation for excellence, the Gillioz Theatre stands as a testament to the enduring power of the arts.

Photo courtesy Gillioz Theatre

Join us at The Garrison in the heart of Ozark, Missouri, for an upscale culinary experience featuring shareable plates and high-brow cocktails. Situated right on the banks of the Finley River, the candlelit hideaway highlights the best of the Ozarks while celebrating its folklore, traditions and quirks. Indulge in ne foods including seafood, steaks and curiosities such as bison tartare while sipping signature drinks inspired by The Ozark Mill's intricate history.

THE GUIDE TO BEING YOUR

Best Self

en do ou feel our best C ances are, it’s w en ou feel ealt and clear minded. Vibrant. Pain free. Smooth skin. Polished teeth. Styled hair. ela ed muscles. Consider t is our guide to con dence, to feeling our best and to nding t e e perts w o can get ou t ere!

Burrell Behavioral Health

417-761-5000

burrellcenter.com

1300 E. Bradford Parkway, BLDG B | Springfield Q & A

with Stephanie Robbins, Sara Dee & Alaina Steele

Stephanie Robbins’ mission to provide eating disorder services in Southwest Missouri stems from a decades–long struggle with an eating disorder of her own. After seeking treatment at the nearest location offering it–three hours away from her Spring eld home–Robbins decided to become a therapist and help others access care in Southwest Missouri.

Through Burrell Behavioral Health’s RecoverED Eating Disorder Services, Robbins and

What is your advice for someone struggling with an eating disorder?

Stephanie Robbins, Program Director: Surround yourself with support to help you take the steps you need, even when those steps are scary. Find your purpose and passion in life and be receptive to those who can offer you help along your journey. And don’t ever let anything stop you from pursuing your dreams!

her team of therapists, dieticians, psychiatrists and community support specialists offer intensive outpatient treatment, both in-person and virtually, to clients young and old, regardless of income. Roughly half of RecoverED’s clients are either on Medicare/Medicaid or uninsured. RecoverED Eating Disorder Services recently earned the Missouri Eating Disorders Council’s Center of Excellence designation. Learn more about what RecoverED offers at burrellcenter.com/our-services/recovered/.

What inspires you to help people with eating disorders?

Sara Dee, Clinical Provider: I want to see the stigma that you have to look a certain way to have an eating disorder disappear. I want clients of all shapes and sizes to know that if they have an eating disorder, they deserve to be treated for an eating disorder.

What does being your best self mean to you and your clients?

Alaina Steele, Clinical Provider: For us at RecoverED, being our “best self” is embracing our authenticity, including those imperfections and quirky qualities that make us unique. We highly encourage each individual to find their personal power in whatever form that may look like. “Best self” looks like the pursuit of joy, personal grace and intentional empowerment!

Back row: Kelly Huisenga, N.D., LPC; Kayla Pham, MSW, LCSW; Alaina Steele, LCSW; Payton Phillips, BS Front row: Sherrie Lambert, LCSW; Kayley Myers, MS, RD, LD; Stephanie Robbins, MS, LPC, adii; Sara Dee, LPC

Photo by Katy St. Clair

Center For Plastic Surgery

417-875-3246

417plasticsurgery.com

3555 S. National Ave., Suite 501, Springfield Q & A

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

From all types of cosmetic procedures to full reconstructive surgeries after a dif cult cancer diagnosis, countless patients have trusted the Center for Plastic Surgery at CoxHealth for over 30 years. Their ve surgeons have a combined 80 years of experience and their nursing and front of ce staff have decades of experience. When it comes to plastic surgery, one of the most important things is to nd 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

How do you deliver your personal best to clients?

With nearly 80 years of combined exprience, we try to deliver excellent outcomes and help people reach their goals every day.

all board certi ed by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the only AMA and ABMA recognized board for the eld.

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 scienti cally proven antiaging 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.

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.

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.

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

Photo by Brandy Keltner

Cereset

417-616-7802

cereset.com

2039 S. Brentwood Blvd Springfield

The brain is at the center of everything you do—from succeeding in your career, to caring for your loved ones, to healing from injury or trauma, and much more. When the brain is out of balance, it’s impossible to function at your true potential.

At Cereset® Spring eld, Dr. Diana Eul and her team are passionate about balancing the brain, alleviating the effects of stress and trauma, and helping people achieve their highest level of well-being. Other brain-based therapies work from the outside in, requiring physical and emotional effort that may be out of a client’s reach, but Cereset® technology works from the inside out. Cereset® is the

only proven technology that is non-invasive and highly effective to help your brain relax and reset.

Cereset® Spring eld works with anyone who desires more energy and joy in their life. Dr. Eul and her staff assist rst responders, health care professionals, trauma survivors, athletes, parents, adults and children with ADHD and aging clients who want to maintain mental acuity. Clients attest to myriad bene ts, including improved sleep, enhanced cognitive function and a greater sense of purpose and joy in life.

Take the rst step toward building a life you love. Call Cereset® Spring eld today.

Q & A with Dr. Diana Eul

What do you recommend to clients to be their best self?

We advocate living a healthy lifestyle that promotes brain development. This includes adequate hydration, positive sleep hygiene habits, a balanced protein-rich diet, limiting screen time and regular exercise. These habits are crucial for enhancing overall cognitive function.

Why did you choose to go into your current profession?

I learned the benefits of Cereset® during a trauma certification program through the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals.

I immediately knew I needed to bring this technology to the Springfield community and help people achieve their best self.

What sets your business apart from your competitors?

Other brain-based therapies work from the outside in, requiring emotional and physical effort. Cereset® works from the inside out, asking the client to relax. We use EEG technology to record brain activity, convert it to sound and let the client hear their brain, sense imbalance and naturally come back into balance.

Erin Owens, Jess Lowery, Dr. Diana Eul, Cassie Sickman

Photo by Leah Stiefermann

Excel Dental

It’s no coincidence that Excel Dental’s tagline is “smile healthy.” If individuals have been around their of ce in the last few years, they most likely have heard about how a healthy smile helps to keep their overall body healthier. But the clinic is just beginning its quest for healthier smiles and healthier patients. New research, new technology and a new passion for health are why their of ce is pushing forward with increased health focus. Of course, they love beautiful smiles, but there’s so much they can do to help individuals improve their

health. Imagine a world where saliva can be analyzed for bacteria, yeast and viruses. That world is today! But it’s not just testing for it; it’s knowing what to do, when to do it and how to follow up when individuals get the results. The community will be hearing a whole lot more about this from the clinic in the coming years as they constantly improve their of ce for the bene t of their patients’ health. Guests are encouraged to come in to check them out and see how they can start making improvements in their health to be their BEST SELF!

What do you recommend to patients to be their best?

It’s important that we carefully listen to the patient’s desires. Of course, all treatment plans are always individualized to what each patient is seeking.

What does being your best self mean to you?

In our office, being your “best self” means a healthy smile that is functioning well and helps you to feel good about yourself.

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

It depends on where they are individually. If they’re in pain, it means taking care of any infection that might be present. If there are dental issues present, it may mean restoring their smile back to health and function. If they are self-conscious about their smile appearance, it may mean a total smile makeover!

Dr. Robin Talley, Dr. Tracy Davis, Dr. Janis Scott

Photo by Christina Mullen

BelowZero Cryo Spa

417-360-1044

belo erocryospa.com

1374 E. Republic Rd., Springfield

Vanessa Howe, owner of BelowZero Cryo Spa, embarked on her wellness venture after a transformative experience with cryotherapy. Motivated by her son’s encouragement and her own journey in pain management, she established the wellness and recovery spa in Spring eld, offering full body cryotherapy, infrared and red light sauna, cryo facials and sculpting, cold plunge, contour red light bed and compression therapy. Howe’s passion lies in enhancing lives through pain relief and overall wellness. From young athletes to seniors seeking relief, clients nd solace in the spa’s various services. With a dedicated team and a welcoming, positive environment, BelowZero Cryo Spa fosters a sense of community and well-being, leaving clients rejuvenated and uplifted.

Vanessa Howe, owner

Chesterfield Family & Cosmetic Dental Centers

417-888-0771

chesterfieldfamilydental.com

2104 W. Chesterfield Blvd, Springfield

1334 E. Kingsley, Springfield

Dr. Brock Buzbee and Dr. Roger Buzbee of Chester eld Family and Cosmetic Dental Centers prioritize comprehensive care and patient satisfaction in a warm environment. They specialize in cosmetics, implant restoration, endodontics, preventive health, Botox and more, understanding the link between oral health and overall well-being. Dr. Roger, a Las Vegas Institute for Cosmetic Studies graduate, excels in cosmetic dentistry and full mouth rehabilitation. Dr. Brock, a UMKC School of Dentistry graduate, previously graduated summa cum laude from UMKC. Af liated with the MDA, ADA, AAFE and Spring eld Dental Society, their passion lies in fostering lasting relationships, connecting with patients and crafting con dent smiles.

Dr. Brock Buzbee, Dr. Roger Buzbee

Photos by Katy St. Clair

Nu Essence Spa

417-890-7378

nuessencespa.com

1319 E. Republic Rd., Springfield

Nu Essence Spa is inviting you to treat yourself to a spa day. Spring is for growth, renewal and beauty. Sometimes investing in yourself can be the catalyst that propels you into living your best life, from self-care to dreams and desires.

Nu Essence Spa offers a wide range of services from manicures and lashes to facials and massage. With a staff of over 35 professionals, it is easy to get multiple services done during one visit to this locally owned retreat! Come on over, put on that plush robe and sink into relaxation with Nu Essence Spa in Spring eld.

The Crafted Clinic

417-221-5700

TheCraftedClinic.com

205 E. Madison St., Marshfield

Ready to step into your most radiant self?

Discover the ultimate transformation with The Crafted Clinic tailored Best Self services. Whether you’re gearing up for your big day or simply embracing your inner glow, they have the solution.

From Wrinkle Relaxer Injections to Dermal Fillers, Weight Loss and Hormone Replacement Therapy, their comprehensive offerings ensure you shine with con dence. But it doesn’t end there. Their expertise extends to skincare and weight loss, ensuring you’re not just bridal-ready but empowered to be your best self.

Experience luxury with a personal touch. Their team delivers high-end treatments in a welcoming atmosphere, earning praise for their professionalism and customized approach. Join them on the journey to radiance.

Paige Bybee , Amanda Hyde, Hailey Brown

Photo courtesy Shutterstock, by Leah Stiefermann

 WHEELS UP, 61



THE RANCH, 62

tastes on THE TRAILS

Work up a hunger on your bike ride, then stop for some grub. Find out how on p. 61.

Photo by Brandon Alms

BEYOND BUSINESS

HM DENT WORKS

At HM Dent Works, the company prioritizes the customers’ right to choose Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) as their primary option for vehicle repairs, recognizing it is often the best choice. As the largest PDR shop in 417-land, they excel at swiftly addressing minor collision damage, door dings and hail damage on vehicles, all with a speed that outpaces traditional body shops. Their method involves restoring dents by reshaping the metal to its original form without the need for part replacements, fillers or paint. This not only preserves the factory paint but also helps maintain the value of the vehicle. Their global experience includes traveling the world to tackle hailstorms, but there’s

“Customers are treated like family, ensuring that each one is taken care of with honesty and fairness.”

no place quite like the Ozarks, their beloved home. The company is dedicated to nurturing the skilled trade workforce of the future through their one-of-a-kind trade school called HM Dent Works Academy along with the local HM Dent Works repair shop.

At HM Dent Works, customers are treated like family, ensuring that each one is taken care of with honesty and fairness. The company understands that there’s always a unique story behind each hailstorm or dent, and they’re eager to hear it. Customers are encouraged to contact them today to share their story and discover how quick and straightforward it is to have their vehicle expertly repaired with PDR.

Jeramey & Julia Henson, Owners

Photo by Morgan Lea Photography

Bikes + Bites

Grab a few friends and make your next bike ride a social affair. We rounded up three not-too-hard bike treks that end with an activity that’s social and fun. So pop on that helmet, and hit the trail!

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

NEIGHBORHOOD RIDE

The Trek: Rountree

The Extra Fun: Tie & Timber Beer Co.

If you love quiet streets, tall trees, deep front lawns and lovely historic homes, then a bike ride through the sweet and scenic Rountree neighborhood is a no-brainer. There are plenty of unique places at Pickwick and Cherry where you can end your ride with a bite or a sip. But to keep with the outdoors i e, e re o end finding a ta le at ie iber Beer Co. Their beer garden is spacious, and their beer menu has a wide selection with something for everybody.

OZARK DAYTRIP

The Trek: Chadwick Flyer Trail

The Extra Fun: The Workshop at Finley Farms

Eventually, Chadwick Flyer Trail will run from the ar o nity enter to Springfield s S nshine Street, connecting the two cities. And although the trail is still in development, there are some spots already completed. We recommend hopping on to explore the trail near the community center in Ozark, then riding down the road to Finley Farms. There you can take a break at The Workshop and indulge in some avocado toast or an excellent espresso drink.

FRIENDLY COMPETITION

The Trek: South Creek Greenway

The Extra Fun: Classic’s Yard

South Creek Greenway starts at McDaniel Park at the corner of Sunset Street and National Avenue. Park your car there, and then hop on the trail that ea es est ard thro gh Springfield o an keep going for quite a while—in fact the trail goes all the way to Nathanael Greene Park and the Wilson’s Creek Greenway. We recommend taking a brief detour at Sunset Street and Kansas Expressway for a side trip to Classic’s Yard at Classic Rock o ee to play pi le all and get a sna

Finish the Rountree neighborhood bike ride with drinks at Tie & Timber Beer Co.

Photo by Brandon Alms

Try Horseshoe

adventure.

adventures abound in HORSESHOE CANYON RANCH

If it’s been a while since you’ve been to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in northwest Arkansas, now’s a good time to revisit the ruggedly scenic 720-acre adventure park. With a recent change in ownership, you’ll nd mountain bikes instead of horses and more a la carte single day adventure opportunities than ever before.

BY SONY HOCKLANDER

Rock climbing

For many, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is synonymous with rock climbing. That’s because the well-known destination offers more than 500 bolted routes—with more family-friendly options than ever. Plus there are bouldering and scrambling opportunities. Bolted routes are open to experienced climbers, and less experienced or new climbers can book an adventure through HCR with certified guides and provided equipment. Some equipment is available for rent and for sale at the trading post, where every visitor should check in.

Via ferrata routes

For an adventure that’s something between scrambling and climbing, try HCR’s two via ferrata routes. Roughly translated, the Italian via ferrata means “iron path,” and that’s what it is: a planned mountain blu route that traverses rocky, steep terrains using xed metal rungs with bridges and cables for safety. Long established in Europe, it’s growing in popularity across the United States and HCR was among the rst destinations to create one. No rock-climbing experience? No problem. Just bring an adventurous spirit for this guided adventure.

Mountain bikes and hikes

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch won’t be renamed eBike Canyon Ranch, but instead of horses, you’ll nd a eet of rentable electric mountain bikes in 2024. That goes hand-in-hand with new mountain bike trails—expanding into summer. While the ranch has long had gravel roads for riding, the new trails will meet all skill levels, from green loop beginner trails to advanced cycling. (You can bring your own bike, too.) Hikers will nd plenty of paths that spider around the ranch, plus gravel roads and open spaces to explore.

Longest continuous zip line

Whether you go for the day or while staying over, you can y through the canyon valley on the Iron Horse, the highest and longest continuous zip line in Arkansas at nearly half a mile. This is not canopy zip lining—you’ll soar in one swoop for incredible bird’s eye views of the canyon valley. Not quite ready for Iron Horse? Try the 700-footlong Pony Express zip experience. Both are available for day use or overnight guests. While it’s best to reserve ahead, walk-ins are welcome too.

Overnights and day exploration

Horseshoe Canyon is no longer a dude ranch but adventure is the focus. However, overnight visitors will nd it easier to book cabins for a la carte stays, and rst-come- rst-serve camping continues. The ranch is open for day use whether experienced climbing, bike riding, hiking, photography or simply exploring (a small fee and check-in is required at the Trading Post). But a few weeks each year are designated for all-inclusive stays with lodging, meals, in-park adventures and more. (horseshoecanyon.com; 800-480-9635)

TRIP INFO

Location Horseshoe

Reason to go

Canyon Ranch’s via ferrata routes for a new

Photo courtesy Horseshoe Canyon Ranch

Perfect Porch: A FARMHOUSE DREAM

The Munizes’ front porch is perfectly balanced with soft neutrals and oral pops of color.

BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST | PHOTOGRAPHED BY LEAH STIEFERMANN

As one of the first houses located on their street, the Muniz family always has a perfectly dressed front porch. “I really love and enjoy decorating my front porch,” Jennifer Muniz says. “It gives me great joy to go out and decorate it and share that with the neighborhood.” The house is a beautiful white farmhouse with dark wood and brick accents. The Muniz family—Jennifer, her husband Jeremy and their kids Averi, 22, and Zach, 19—are the first to live in the house, which was built about five years ago by Ogden Homes LLC.

Jeremy and Jennifer use their porch most to unwind in the evenings. “Our neighborhood has a lot of people that walk—families that walk, couples that walk—so we get to visit with our neighbors,” Jennifer says. Hydrangea bushes line the front of the porch, complemented by brick-based pillars at the entrance. “The brickwork is unique,” she says. “I don’t think they make that size brick anymore.”

The spring porch is decorated with neutral hues, checkered- and bumblebee-patterned pillows and pops of colors through fresh flowers. “That is my design inspo for the spring,” Jenni -

fer says. The flowers on the porch are all from @theflowersisters3 on Instagram—three sisters who grow flowers, then cut and sell them to raise money for mission projects.

Jennifer also has her own Instagram account, @downshirefarm, dedicated to showcasing her home decorating skills. She derives most of her porch decorating inspiration from Pinterest, incorporating items like rain boots and bushel baskets to infuse character. “My porch is a reflection of my indoor decor,” she says. “I use a mix of vintage and antique pieces along with new in order to create a unique look.”

Large wooden pillars greet you on the walk up to the Munizes’ porch.

Photos courtesy TK photographers

Anyone lucky enough to own a chunk of land will tell you that the rolling hills and peaceful hollows of 417-land are some of the region’s most beautiful scenes. Lucky for the rest of us, several Ozarks farms set on these idyllic plots open their gates to guests all summer long. For ower picking, farm dinners and more—we tell you how to plug into this sweet summertime fun.

WRITTEN BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES

Mom can pick owers and the kids can cuddle bunnies at this family-run farm in Rogersville.

When you visit Gooseberry Bridge Farm on the outskirts of Rogersville, you’ll definitely meet some goats, bunnies and pigs. And we bet you’ll meet a member of the Hill family too.

Owners Jeremy and Staci Hill are often out and about on the property with their six kids in tow, interacting with visitors and answering questions along with other family members. Walking around at Gooseberry Bridge Farm feels a lot like visiting some friendly neighbors excited to tell you all about the peaceful little world they’ve created on their farm.

Our favorite way to visit Gooseberry Bridge Farm: Head to the farm’s website and sign up for a Baby Animal Playdate. They sell tickets for timed appointments to ensure the animal’ spaces aren’t overcrowded with too many visitors, but once you are there, you can take your time and enjoy the snuggles. There are baby bunnies (in baskets!), baby goats, fluffy lambs and little rolly polly spotted piglets that you are welcome to pick up, cuddle and interact with. If you look outside those baby animal pens, you might also catch a glimpse of some chickens, a fluffy white farm dog and other critters that live around the property.

After getting all the dopamine infusions you can handle from those sweet little animals, head over to the flower fields to pick a bouquet to purchase and bring home with you. Summer flower picking begins in mid-June.

There’s also a small farm store where you can purchase products made by the Hill family, like goat milk soap and other body products, honey, eggs and chicken.

Gooseberry Bridge Farm

177 Elm Grove Road, Rogersville gooseberrybridge.com

Photos by Morgan Lea Photography

A family with deep Ozarks roots has opened up their Century Farm for everyone to enjoy.

You know a farm is special if it’s been a part of a single family’s legacy for more than 150 years. Lucky for us, the family behind Cassidy Station at Estes Farms has made the decision to develop it into a community gathering place all of 417-land can enjoy.

The farm is currently owned by Kyle Estes and Hollie Estes. Kyle’s great-greatgreat grandparents Pleasant Green Estes and Sarah Estes were the rst of their family to live on the land after moving there in 1872. Since purchasing the land, Kyle and Hollie have been lovingly restoring the property to create a space open to all.

What does that mean for visitors?

Well, this scenic farm is now home to Cassidy Mercantile, Cassidy Flower Co., a private event space and a growing list of community events. Recently, Cassidy Station hosted a spring farm-to-table dinner (with food prepared by Metropolitan Grill’s Pat Duran), as well as a seed-starting workshop. Last September, their Fall Market Days event brought in food trucks, live

musicians, vendors and more. Keep an eye on their calendar for more good stu .

The mercantile is located inside the farm’s 150-year-old farmhouse, and it sells a variety of curated products like hand soaps, shampoo bars, candles, home decor and lots of other handcrafted goods—all with a bit of a chic farmhouse vibe. There’s even a little co ee shop on-site o ering the farm’s own co ee blend.

Our favorite part, though, is Cassidy Flower Co. It’s a place where you can get creative, putting together a bouquet from the ower bar or joining a oral design class—in addition to simply ordering a bouquet to gift to a loved one.

Whether you come to admire the restoration, shop or learn—make sure you take a moment to take in the view, say hi to the horses and bask in the history.

Cassidy Station at Estes Farms 5176 N. Fremont Ave., Nixa cassidystation.com

Photos by Leah Stiefermann

Animal Buddies

If furry friends are your favorite friends, these three farms let you mingle with the animals.

Mala Koza Farm

Located in Fordland, goatsandyoga.com

Here you don’t just get to pet the animals. You get to work out with them. Sign up for a Goat Yoga class featuring Nigerian Dwarf goats. You can also book a 30-minute goat gram, during which the Mala Koza farm team will bring baby goats right to you for some easy-access cuddling.

Gooseberry

Bridge Farm

Located in Rogersville, gooseberrybridge.com

Turn back to p. 69 to read more about this family farm, where you can book a session to hang out with several types of oh-so-adora le a y far ani als he y nnies are our very favorite, but the playful goats are a close second.)

Sycamore Creek

Located in Branson, sycamorecreekfamilyranch.com

There’s a lot of fun to be had at Sycamore Creek Family Ranch (see p. 73), and some low-key quality time meeting goats, llamas, chickens and more is just one part. Come to the farm for one of their events, but make sure you venture to the animal area too.

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, Morgan Lea Photogrpahy, courtesy Sycamore Creek, Ste phanie Wubbena,

It’s a little bit country and a whole lot of fun at this sprawling farm situated above a vista of rolling hills.

The setting is everything here, no matter which community events you’re attending. Although the 272-acre Sycamore Creek Family Ranch’s location isn’t far from downtown Branson, it feels like it’s a journey away from the hustle and bustle.

Sycamore Creek hosts weddings and other private events, but the family-friendly commu-

nity events are what will draw you in on any given summer night. Barn dances are popular, regularly selling out and o ering guests chance to line dance in a spacious barn—and to catch a glimpse of the 360-degree view sunsets

In the past, the farm has also hosted pizza nights, painting classes and an activity-packed fall fest that’s a must-do after summer winds down. Keep an eye on their site to see what’s coming up.

A more recent addition to the property is the circle of Conestoga glamping wagons that surround a cozy re pit. You can do your best Oregon Trail recreation (minus the dysentery, of course) and spend the night surrounded by

the outdoors and the comforts of home. The wagons have full bathrooms, heating and air conditioning, and other amenities.

Our recommendation: Book a night in a wagon, take in the hilltop view as you play some lawn games outside the barn, and then spend your evening a little outside your comfort zone at one of the ranch’s barn dances. You’ll get the best of everything at the farm and maybe learn new dance moves along the way.

Sycamore Creek Family Ranch

2567 Sunset Inn Road, Branson sycamorecreekfamilyranch.com

Photos by Morgan Lea Photography

3

Willow Spring Farm Co.

932 Keithley Road, Walnut Shade, facebook.com/WillowSpringFarmCo

Don’t Miss This Flower: Tulips Pi yo r season to isit n the ser, it s all a o t yo pi o ers n the fall, yo an pi apples too And keep this info for next spring, so yo an isit d ring t lip season in pril hey ha e the in e ery olor

gardener’s Orchard

4455 W. Farm Road 2, Brighton, gardenersorchardandbakery.com

Don’t Miss This Flower: zinnia ardener s gets a lot of lo e for its fall e ents, t don t sleep on their o er fields n late s er, yo ll start to see innias and s n o ers Come back in the spring for tulips and other early season o ers

Stone Hill Flower Farm

1049 W. Stonehill Raod, Ozark, stonehillflowerfarm.com

Don’t Miss This Flower: dahlia Stone Hill’s you-pick experiences start in the month of July. There’s also an honor-system farmstand on property that is stocked with fresh o ers, eggies gro n on site and homemade pastries.

UpComingRoses

Eight places to hand-pick fresh owers in 417-land.

The Hilltop Farm

4038 Bear Creek Road, Reeds Spring, thehilltopfarm.com

Don’t Miss This Flower: scabiosa Located at a hilltop (hence the name) log cabin in Reeds Spring, this small farm has just six rows of o er eds, t they are rsting ith olor o an fill a ase ith blooms for $20.

Golden Grove Farms

4950 E. State Highway KK, Fair Grove, goldengrovefarms.com

Don’t Miss This Flower: S n o er Depending on the weather, s n o ers ight e at their pea in July or August. So check back throughout the season, then head o er to pi ste s in a ild ariety of ig, ea tif l s n o er types

Pa’s Posey Patch

21501 Farm Road 1120, Cassville, facebook.com/pasposeypatch

Don’t Miss This Flower: poppies This low-key you-pick destination gro s a ariety of o ers thro gh the season, from early-season da odils to fiery red poppies at the end of this onth and s n o ers as the season winds down later on.

4

Gooseberry Bridge Farm

177 Elm Grove Road, Rogersville gooseberrybridge.com

Don’t Miss This Flower: zinnia lip and da odil season ends in pril, and s er o er pi ing starts in id ne o an find a lot of o er types here, t the innias in e ery olor in s o er e ery single ti e So pretty

Black & Blue Berry Farm

5313 S. Farm Road 241, Rogersville, blackandblueberryfarm.info

Don’t Miss This Flower: la ender o ight ha e isited this spot to pick berries. But did you know you an pi la ender here too he fragrant blooms are great for popping into a bouquet to display at home, or using in cooking and projects.

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, Morgan Lea Photography, courtesy Pa’s Posey Patch

Pa’s Posey Patch

Stone Hill Flower Farm

Gooseberry Bridge Farm

Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery

When to Pick:

• May for strawberries

• June for blueberries and blackberries

• July for peaches

Know Before You Go: After you work up an appetite picking berries or peaches, make sure you head over to the farm’s bakery and on ession area to fill p on sna s, rgers and baked goods that often utilize those tasty, fresh berries from the farm.

Find It: 4455 W. Farm Road 2, Brighton, gardenersorchardandbakery.com

Missouri Berries

When to Pick:

• May for strawberries

• June for blueberries

Know Before You Go: Missouri Berries

o ers yo pi fr it of o rse B t they also make some excellent homemade donuts— fresh every day! During strawberry season, grab a strawberry lemonade slushie or strawberry lemonade to quench your thirst after a morning of picking.

Find It: 2097 State Hwy PP, Republic, missouriberries.com

The Sweet Stuff

Seven 417-land farms offering pick-your-own berries and fruit.

Sunshine Valley Farm

When to Pick:

• June for blueberries

• July for blackberries

• September–October for apples

Know Before You Go: In addition to excellent fruit picking and a small farmstand, Sunshine Valley Farm is also home to Harvest Restaurant. So you can end your day of pi ing ith a little fine dining if yo ti e things just right.

Find It: 8125 E. Highway AD, Rogersville, sunshinevalleyfarm.com

Black & Blue Berry Farm

When to Pick:

• June–July for blueberries and blackberries

Know Before You Go: In addition to picking fresh berries, you can also pick lavender at this s eet little far he spot also o ers lots of family-friendly farm games, lavender plant starts, a shop selling lavender products and live music. Bonus for animal-lovers: Kids can feed the chickens too.

Find It: 5313 S Farm Rd 241, Rogersville, blackandblueberryfarm.info

Persimmon Hill Farm

When to Pick:

• June–July for blueberries and blackberries

Know Before You Go: The baked goods are second-to-none here. The enormous Thunder ns are the goodie, espe ially when ordered with ice cream and blueberry sauce as the Cumulobluebus. But the blueberry scones are our newest obsession. Dare we say we like them even more than the h nder ns

Find It: 367 Persimmon Hill Lane, Lampe, persimmonhill.com

Boz’s Berry Farm

When to Pick:

• May for strawberries

• August for pears

Know Before You Go: We love that this spot o ers a fr it e don t often see a aila le for you-pick: pears. Come early in the season to stock up on fresh strawberries, then shift your attention to pears in August as the summer winds down.

Find It: 13920 State Hwy TT, Republic, facebook.com/BozsBerryFarm

Photos by Brandon Alms, Leah Stiefermann, courtesy Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery

Strawberry Crumble Float, Gardener’s Orchard

Cumulobluebus, Persimmon Hill Farm

Apple picking, Sunshine Valley Farm

Gardener’s Orchard

Truly a year-round farm destination, Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery offers a lot to love.

Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery was originally owned by Cornelius Gradinariu, an immigrant from Romania who settled on land that’s now home to the 43-acre Gardener’s Orchard. Although Cornelius passed away in 2021, the business is still very much a family affair, as relatives continue to carry the torch, creating funfilled farm experiences for all their guests.

And the experience you have at Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery depends a lot on when you visit. It’s most well-known for its Fall on the Farm events, but summer is an

equally fun time to be there. You’ll swap out pumpkins for fresh berries and gorgeous flowers—but you’ll still get to enjoy all the other perks of the farm.

Those perks include the on-site bakery slinging fresh pies, donuts and other treats. There’s a small concessions menu of hearty fare like burgers and kettle corn. And there’s a sunny field full of kid-friendly activities like a jump pad, a barrel train, a bubble station, an enormous slide and lots more.

So now that you know you’ll be visiting in the summer, how do you pick exactly when to show up? We think that depends on what you’re hungry for.

If it’s berries, come in May and June. That’s when the farm rolls out a rainbow of the sweet stuff, with strawberries that

are followed by blackberries and blueberries. You can even get a fresh strawberry float, which is dreamy and refreshing on a hot summer day.

If you’re in the mood to bite into a fresh, juicy, southwest Missouri-grown peach, you’ll want to plan your visit for July. And if you’d rather add a little beauty to your home than pick fruit to stock your pantry, then hold off until late summer for zinnia and sunflower picking—or come back next spring for the late-March tulip festival.

No matter when you show up, you can expect the same sunny scene and big fun.

Gardener’s Orchard

4455 W. Farm Road 2, Brighton

gardenersorchardandbakery.com

Photos by Marianna Limon Photography

Stock Up

Farmers markets are a great place to discover new producers from around the region. Browse the booths and nd farm-fresh groceries to inspire your meals at home.

Farmers Market of the Ozarks Thursdays and Saturdays loveyourfarmer.com

Greater Springfield Farmers Market Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays springfieldfarmersmarket.com

Ozark Farmers Market Thursdays ozarkfarmersmarket.com

C-Street City Market Thursdays and Saturdays cstreetcitymarket.com

Greater Fair Grove Farmers Market Wednesdays fairgrovemarket.com

Joplin Empire Market Saturdays joplinempiremarket.com

Photos by Marianna Limon Photography, Leah Stiefermann, courtesy Gardener’s Orchard & Bakery

Heritage meets ne dining and a strong tie to the land at Finley Farms in Ozark.

Finley Farms is one of those spots that gets better every year, and it absolutely lives up to the legacy and lore of the land it sits on. If you’re from Ozark or anywhere nearby, then you know how beloved the Finley River is—along with the historical sites that have lived near its banks.

One of those sites is the Ozark Mill, which was built in 1833 but stood unused from 1992 until Megan Stack and Johnny Morris began to develop the property into a collection of community spaces that honor the past while also bringing visitors something completely new.

The first part of the property to open in was The Workshop (in 2019). It’s an airy space that was once an industrial garage and now serves as a coffee shop and gathering place. It butts up to an expansive covered Market Shed where Ozark Farmers Market relocated five years ago.

More and more spaces opened up at Finley Farms over the years, and today it’s a hub on the Finley River that offers community events and grows loads of fruits and vegetables that are often used in the food prepared on-site at The Ozark Mill Restaurant and its downstairs dining neighbor, The Garrison.

Those crops are overseen by resident gardeners Liesel McCleary and Brendan Sinclair, who often give farm tours and host plant sales at Finley Farms.

Even the restaurants lean into local history. The Ozark Mill Restaurant features flooring from the original mill that was refinished and replaced inside the building—and you can even view the original millworks. Flood gates and a repositioning of the building itself both aim to keep damaging water at bay throughout the meticulously restored mill.

The Garrison is named for Howard Garrison, who was the original owner of the longlived local favorite Riverside Inn. Riverside Inn was known for its fried chicken, and The Garrison’s menu features an homage to that beloved dish.

Finley Farms

802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark finleyfar s o o

Photo courtesy Finley Farms

Dine Al Fresco on e Farm

Three beautiful places to enjoy a farmto-table meal in a scenic setting.

Millsap Farms

6593 N. Emu Lane, Springfield, millsapfarms.com/pizza-club

Come for The: Brick-oven pizza

Stay for The: Twilight magic

The Pizza Club at Millsap Farms is a big, communal joy bomb that makes us happy every summer. Seating is limited at picnic tables tucked into a little clearing surrounded by trees, but you can bring camp chairs or a picnic blanket. And honestly, we think the picnic blanket is the most charming option. Pizzas are prepared by the fa ily and tea at illsap ar s, and it s an all yo an eat a air It’s super-tasty, but the magic is truly in the atmosphere. Twinkle lights dangle above the picnic tables. Live music plays as the sun gets low. Kids run wild in the Millsap family’s open spaces, playing with lawn toys and enjoying the fresh air. Our tip: Bring a bottle of wine, take it slow, and enjoy every second.

Lavender Falls Farm

3016 State Highway M, Clever, lavenderfallsfarm.com

Come for The: Outdoor bistro fare

Stay for The: Live music

When you arrive at Lavender Falls Farm, you’re greeted with the purple waves of lavender plants and their oh-so-sweet scent. The seating at this quaint and tiny farm is outdoors, much of it on decks that overlook kids playing on the steep hillside and near the babbling stream below. The menu has everything from lavender-infused shareable apps to steaks—and you can eat it while you listen to live music. Make your reservations early because dinners always sell out. If you can’t make it out this year, keep an eye out next winter; reservations usually open as early as February for this in-demand spot.

FINLEY FARMS

802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, finleyfarmsmo.com

Come for The: Farm-to-Bridge Dinner

Stay for The: General Store

The farm itself is reason enough to visit (see p. 78), but the Finley River and the bridge that spans it is another excellent asset to this beautiful community spot. To make the most of it, Finley Farms has hosted several Farm-to-Bridge Dinner events, where long tables are beautifully set up for family-style dining, al fresco with the waters of the Finley running by underfoot. It’s a twinkly, magical e ent and it s o ered just infrequently enough that it always feels special but never inaccessible.

Photos by Leah Stiefermann, courtesy Finley Farms

sea and sun in

For a laid-back sun-soaked coastal vacation, you can’t go wrong with a trip to San Diego. Here’s one insider’s take on what to see and do —and how to plan your getaway from 417-land.

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY SONY HOCKLANDER

With a sparkling blue sea, amazing sunsets, historic parks, dozens of attractions and a vibrant beach culture, San Diego is a great place to visit for a west coast vacation.

Admittedly, I’m biased. While I’m a proud Ozarker and Midwesterner, I lived in San Diego until age 12 and my brother has lived there his entire adult life. That’s why my family returns there often. Over the years we’ve developed a vacation playlist of favorite things to see and do at our three favorite beach areas, plus more fun activities we’ve enjoyed. Perhaps you’ll enjoy them too.

PACIFIC-MISSION BEACH

The best place to experience Southern California beach culture is the Paci c-Mission beach neighborhoods that include Mission Bay. It’s the rst place I lived when my father was stationed in San Diego and it's where my brother lived for years. We brought our kids here on vacations when they were young and it’s where we stay now.

Why? We simply enjoy the beach town vibe. The Mission-Paci c beaches and Mission Bay attract myriad people of all ages and backgrounds. This beach area o ers plenty of nightlife for those who want that but you can easily avoid it if you don’t. Here’s what we like to do best:

Hang out on the beach

It goes without saying you’ll spend time on the wide sandy beach, but which one? It’s hard to tell where Mission Beach ends and Paci c Beach begins. Both have periodic lifeguard stations and you may nd a beach volleyball game or two going. Once you’re settled, enjoy the waves, building sandcastles and walking the shoreline. (Tip: sections of beach closest to parking will be most crowded.)

Stroll the oceanside boardwalk

The centerpiece three-mile multi-use concrete boardwalk attracts dog-walkers, families, skaters, bike-riders, runners, locals and vacationers. It stretches between the southern Mission Beach Jetty and ends north of Crystal Pier in Paci c Beach (“PB” to locals). In between, you’ll pass lots of beach homes, rentals and occasional cafes, bars and beach shops, especially near Belmont Park and Crystal Pier. We love early morning walks to Woody’s (woodyssd.com), an open-air co ee and breakfast spot to sip, nosh, people-watch and enjoy the great sea view (they serve lunch and dinner too). We recently discovered the Olive Baking

Pacific-Mission Beach features wide sandy beaches and endless shorelines to walk along.

Bike along the boardwalk at Mission Bay for picturesque views.

Company (olivebakingcompany.com), a charming bakery just o of the boardwalk that serves incredible cinnamon rolls. For a great ocean view at a nice casual restaurant, plan lunch or dinner at World Famous in PB (worldfamouspb.com)

Rent a bike

Riding the entire length of the boardwalk and around Mission Bay is a must-do every trip.

Visit Crystal Pier

You can actually stay in cottages on the Paci c Beach pier, which is also a hotel (crystalpier.com) And a walk to the pier’s end o ers a scenic view of the shore and local surfers. Nearby, dining, bars and shops attract visitors day and night. Looking for a casual lunch? Taco Surf Taco Shop (tacosurftacoshop.com) touts the city’s best tacos (we agree) and sports historic area photos on its walls.

where to stay

We typically stay in a rental house or condo near ission and Pa ifi ea hes, or aro nd Mission Bay. If you prefer a quieter environent, rent nearest ission Bay or se eral blocks away from concentrated restaurant ar areas o ghly fi e iles north of Pa ifi Bea h, a olla a es another good al eit pri ier area to stay

f yo prefer a hotel, a fe to try near ea h or bay areas include:

Pacific Beac

o er Bo ti e otel, t hotel o he Bea h ottages, ea h ottages o apri y the Sea, allseasonsresortlodging o ean Par nn, o eanpar inn o

ission Ba

he ana, thedana o ata aran esort otel, ata aranresort o Bahia esort otel, ahiahotel o

La Jolla

nn y the Sea, inn ytheseaatla olla o a olla Shores otel, l shoreshotel o a olla o e otel, la olla o e o

Photos by Sony Hocklander; illustration courtesy Shutterstock

P a at Be ont Par

sea lions & harbor seals: what’s the di erence?

a olla is ho e to a plethora of har or seals and sea lions lounging on beaches and rocks along the rugged coast. Seals tend to favor hauling out on beach areas while sea lions favor rocks. Sea lions are larger, ha e isi le ear aps and are more social than seals. Sea lions tend to hang o t near a olla o e hile seals ha e adopted the Children’s Pool beach.

The nearly 100-year-old amusement park on the boardwalk is packed with rides, arcades, shops and food. The centerpiece of Belmont Park is the Giant Dipper Rollercoaster.

En o ission Ba

We love to stroll or ride around Mission Bay, just east of Mission Boulevard. It’s also where we catch a sunrise or watch summer reworks from nearby Sea World. Mission Bay, bordered by pretty homes and several hotels, has picturesque views, calm bayshore beaches and playgrounds. You can also rent kayaks and more.

La Jolla

Ah, La Jolla—known as the jewel of San Diego.

We always spend at least one full day in this beautiful coastal village that stretches seven miles. With tall sandstone blu s, secluded beaches and rocky outcroppings, it’s home to seals, sea lions, birds, colorful marine life and lots of things to do. While La Jolla is an upscale area to shop, dine and stay, we most love exploring its coastal beauty.

Snorkel, dive or swim at La Jolla Cove

This small protected crescent beach is at the base of a blu on the north end of Coast Boulevard.

With a protected marine population, it’s a great place to snorkel and swim, or depending on the

tide, explore its small cave and tide pools. (Snorkel gear can be rented nearby.)

Picnic in E en Bro ning Scripps Par

The gorgeous grassy park along Coast Boulevard starts at the top of La Jolla Cove and is one of the most scenic overlook spots in San Diego. From the park’s north end, watch sea lions frolic on Point La Jolla and Boomer Beach.

Stroll the scenic coast

The best way to see La Jolla’s rugged coastline and visit pocket beaches and tide pools is to walk the paved path from La Jolla Cove / Scripps Park to the Children’s Pool. If you have time, continue to the Tide Pools south of Cuvier Park.

Visit the Children’s Pool

This unique protected beach with a narrow sea wall built in the 1930s was originally planned for families. But eventually San Diego harbor seals took over. Now it’s best known for watching seals, which are protected at the beach between December and mid-May during pupping season. After that, humans are allowed to share the beach but are cautioned against swimming in the area.

Visit Sunny Jim’s Cave and the Cave Store

La Jolla is known for seven sea caves, six of which are accessible only by water. But Sunny Jim’s—a cave that resembles a pro led face—can be reached via 145 steps and a $10 fee through an

Photos y Sony o lander, o rtesy Sh ttersto

The La Jolla Coast stretches seven miles and is home to sandstone bluffs and secluded beaches.

old bootlegger’s tunnel from the 1905 Cave Store (cavestore.com) near La Jolla Cove. On our last visit we were serenaded by a friendly sea lion, a common cave visitor.

Hike the Coastal Trail

This .6-mile (one-way) historic trail established in 1860 starts just behind The Cave Store (friendsofcoastwalk.org). It features panoramic cli top vistas, an observation platform at Gold sh Point and more opportunities to view marine life.

beach beyond the

San Diego offers plenty of things to to do for families, couples and friend groups. Some of our personal favorites:

Old Town San Diego

Old Town (oldtownsandiegoguide.com) is the site of alifornia s first ropean settle ent e lo e to visit for Mexican fare and shopping at the Old o n ar et yes, a little to risty er the years we’ve visited historic buildings including the site of the first ission, the first s hoolho se and the Whaley House (supposedly the most haunted ho se in the nited States

Ba oa Par se s an San iego oo o ated in Bal oa Par (balboapark.org), the San Diego Zoo (sandiegozoowildlifealliance.org) is onsidered one of o r nation s est n addition, the historic park is home to more than a dozen se s, perfor ing arts, al ing trails and gardens, dining and the s er season aro sel

Hotel Del Coronado

Coronado is an island beach community we usually visit for half a day or longer. It has a distinct island feel and there’s a historic vibe with little shops and dining establishments. But we center our visits around the historic red-roofed Hotel Del Coronado (hoteldel.com). The hotel and resort built in 1888 once hosted Hollywood royalty and as the s ene for se eral old fil s e e ne er stayed there but the hotel welcomes visitors and yo ll find lots of histori displays Pl s yo an dine and drink at resort restaurants and bars or spend time on the nearby world class beach.

Sea World

A marine-themed amusement park in Mission Bay, Sea orld (seaworld.com/san-diego) features rides, sho s and arine life displays

Gas a p istrict

he heart of do nto n San iego, the asla p District (gaslamp.org) is bursting with places to stay, dine and shop ith a al a le footprint

Maritime Museum of San Diego eet of histori ships in the San iego har or make up the Maritime Museum of San Diego (sdmaritime.org) ts enterpie e is the Star of ndia, the world’s oldest sailing ship.

USS Midway Museum

If you’ve wondered what an aircraft carrier looks li e, fro sleeping arters to the ight de , this museum (midway.org) is a must-see.

Seaport i age

This festive harbor view collection of shops and dining (seaportvillage.com) includes the Seaport illage istori aro sel ry the dge ater Bar & Grill for dining with a view (edgewatergrill.com)

S nset i s Nat ra Par

a re nat ral par on the Point o a Penins la, S nset li s (sandiego.gov) features a natural surface trail with crowd-pleasing sunsets.

Cabrillo National Monument and Tide Pools

The national monument (nps.gov/cabr) features a s all se and loo o t, a t o ile ayside trail, a lightho se and tide pools near y

Swim at La Jolla Shores

We’ve spread blankets at this one-mile crescent beach for decades. The beautiful stretch of sandy shoreline includes lifeguards and a grassy palm tree-shaded park.

Kayak to sea caves

Book a guided kayak tour to paddle from La Jolla Shores to the protected marine reserve and along the seven sea caves near La Jolla Cove (lajollaseacavekayaks.com)

S op an ine

La Jolla o ers plenty of upscale retail shops and boutiques and you won’t go hungry with its many

area restaurants. We’ve enjoyed lunch with a sea view at Brockton Villa (brocktonvilla.com)

Torrey Pines

North of La Jolla, Torrey Pines State Beach is another go-to spot on our vaca playlist. Pack a picnic and stay the day at this state preserve beach and park. What makes it unique: Much of the beach is backdropped by tall sandstone cli s. (This beach is not deep so plan your visit when it’s not high tide.) There are two primary paid parking lots, north and south. The south lot (our go-to) also provides access to the cli top visitors center and trails (parks.ca.gov) Once you arrive, consider these activities:

Enjoy the beach

While the state park beach is 4.5 miles long between Del Mar and the sandstone cli s at Torrey Pines Mesa, we like the area just south of the parking where the cli s start.

a so t to at roc

The picturesque wide at rock is separated from sandstone cli s by a sea-worn slot. When the tide is out, visitors can also pass the rock to a tide pool area beyond.

Hike Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve trails

Near the visitors center at the top of the cli s, six trails lead hikers through the reserve (parks.ca.gov)

The Beach Trail descends 300 feet to the shore, with steps at the end. (Tip: At high tide, this section of beach is impassable.) On our last trip, we hiked up the Beach Trail about halfway for views, then returned to the beach and back to our blanket.

WHEN TO VISIT

San Diego weather is moderate year round with an average temperature of 72 degrees. he ar est onths are ne thro gh oe er ne thro gh to er has the est beach temps. We like to visit between late ly and Septe er a oiding ly isitors and the potential for “Gray May” and ne loo hen it s ar t lo dier

GET THERE

here are no dire t ights fro Springfield to San iego t yo o ld y llegiant to os ngeles and rent a ar fro there three ho r dri e r oo a dire t ight on Southwest Airlines out of the Kansas City or St o is airport

BEA H PAR ING

S ers in San iego are hea enly eept for ea h par ing, yo r iggest hallenge, espe ially on ee ends and holidays or a day at the ea h, go early, par , and walk somewhere to get breakfast if you’re not quite ready to lay out a blanket.

Torrey Pines State Beach is a must-see spot backdropped by tall sandstone cliffs and perfect beaches.

 he S nny i Sea a e is one of se en sea a es near a olla o e

Torrey Pines State Beach stretches 4.5 miles between Del Mar and Torrey Pines Mesa.

Photos by Sony Hocklander

Encore

Life is good. As we move through life’s seasons, there will be changes. But there are local professionals to help guide us through those changes so that we can thrive. Stay comfortable. Stay active. Stay surrounded with love and friends and family and health. We’ll help guide the way for aging well.

Americare Senior Living Services

Bradford Court

• Assisted Living

Lakewood

• Assisted Living

• Memory Care

NorthPark Village

• Independent Living

• Assisted Living

Ravenwood

• Assisted Living

• Memory Care

Spring Ridge

• Assisted Living

Neighborhoods at Quail Creek

• Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

At Americare, they have a saying: Find Yourself in a Happier Place.® That’s not just a slogan. It’s their mission. Their person-centered approach makes a real difference in the lives of their residents, residents’ families and their employees. Each day, they strive to create a caring, vibrant community where everyone is treated with genuine affection and respect.

For nearly 40 years, Americare has remained privately owned and family run. Those family values are woven into everything they do. The food they’re proud to serve. Their gracious amenities. And high-quality professional nursing care for those who need it. They call it Hometown Hospitality.®

Does it have an impact? You bet it does. In a national survey, the folks who live at Americare were 12% more satisfied than residents of other senior living communities. No wonder U.S. News gave Americare its award for Best Assisted Living. It’s also why Americare continues to be recognized as a Best Place to Work.

Experience it for yourself when you visit one of their six Springfield-area senior living communities. They’re eager to show you how their vast experience, resources and compassion can help you Find Yourself in a Happier Place.

Citizens Memorial Healthcare Services

Whether individuals are considering senior care for themselves or a loved one, the choices can be overwhelming. That’s why Citizens Memorial has a quick 4-5 minute survey to assist in learning more about options and deciding the best t for care needs. Go to cmhbolivar.info/LTC2024 to take the survey.

Citizens Memorial provides care at every stage of life. From independent living to residential care and skilled nursing facilities, they o er a comprehensive range of services to meet diverse needs. Additionally, their specialized memory care units* are designed to support individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, ensuring safety and comfort. For those in need of rehabilitation, their inpatient services o er physical, occupational, and speech therapies to promote recovery and well-being.

•24-hour Nursing Care

•24-hour Security System

•Beauty and Barber Services

• Daily Planned Activities

•Hospice Services and Palliative Care

•Laundry Services

•Memory Care Units or Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care*

•Pharmacy consultant services & Medication Management

With a focus on personalized attention and a commitment to quality care, Citizens Memorial is there to support families every step of the way. Interested individuals are invited to take the survey or call 417-328-6731 to schedule a guided tour of one of their facilities located in Ash Grove, Bolivar, Bu alo, El Dorado Springs, and Stockton, Missouri. Citizens Memorial is there to help navigate the journey with compassion and expertise. 1500

• Physician Visits

•Psychiatric Services

•Social Services

•Sub-Acute/Transitional Care

•Therapy services (PT, OT, Speech)

•Wound Care

Mission Ridge Amenities

•Salon

•Courtyard

• Massage Therapy Room

•Bistro and Wine Bar

• In-Unit Washer/Dryer

• Fitness Area

•24-Hour Staf ng

•Resident Call System

•Transportation Options

•Anytime Dining

•On-Site Maintenance

•Weekly Housekeeping

•Wellness Program

• Pets Welcome

•Linen Service

4349 S. Kansas Ave., Springfield

417-520-7016

missionridgeliving.com

Discover quality senior living at Mission Ridge, nestled in South Spring eld at Quail Creek. This vibrant community o ers independent, assisted and memory care options, ensuring an enriching lifestyle for every resident. At Mission Ridge, individuals will nd more than just a place to live—they’ll nd a home where every moment is lled with opportunities for joy and ful llment. Residents can enjoy the freedom to pursue their passions, whether it’s through engaging activities, wellness programs or simply relaxing in beautifully landscaped grounds.

The compassionate team at Mission Ridge is dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times. From assistance with daily tasks to medication management, they are there to support residents every step of the way. Experience the luxury of worry-free living with a range of amenities, including chef-prepared meals, housekeeping services, transportation and more. With a variety of spacious oor plans to choose from, residents can nd the perfect home that suits their lifestyle.

Come home to Mission Ridge and discover the next chapter of life— lled with laughter, friendship and endless possibilities. Schedule a tour today and see why Mission Ridge is the premier choice for senior living in Spring eld.

Photos courtesy Mission Ridge

FLEX Services

by TLC Properties Amenities

For over 35 years, TLC Properties has prioritized the resident experience at each of its 30 properties spanning across four states. TLC Properties already o ers quality, amenity-rich communities to call home with prime locations, and now they are caring for their residents in a new way. The FLEX Services program o ers lifestyle concierge services from a team residents already know and can count on. It is available to o er that extra helping hand residents need to make their lives easier. Making time for life’s daily tasks can be a challenge, but the FLEX Services lifestyle concierge team can assist with pets, cleaning, errands and everything in between. The goal of Flex Services is to carry out TLC Properties’ commitment to unbridled service in a new way for the resident that allows them to get back to doing more of what they love without the stress of daily tasks. Get your time back and start reclaiming your golden years— FLEX Services by TLC Properties will take care of the rest.

FLEX Services includes pet pampering, pet walking/sitting, dry cleaning, weekly cleaning, deep cleaning, holiday decoration removal, and errand running.

•On-Site Management

•On-Site Maintenance

•24/7 Emergency Maintenance

•Security Patrol

•Pet-Friendly

•Fitness Center

•Heated Swimming Pool

•Community Spaces

•Elevators*

•Interior Courtyards*

•Covered Parking/Garages*

•Lawn Care/Snow Removal*

BirchPointe Health & Rehabilitation

BirchPointe Health & Rehabilitation is a skilled nursing facility offering short-term rehab, long-term care, dementia care and hospice/respite services. The facility houses dedicated communities to help serve the specific needs of their guests in a comfortable and home-like environment. Each community has specific care and specialized programming for their guests’ needs.

Amenities

• State-of-the-Art therapy gym

• Private & semi-private suites

• Individual dining spaces

• Outdoor courtyards

• Bistro with drinks and fresh baked pastries

3705 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield 417-889-0773 | birchpointehealth.com

James River Nursing & Rehabilitation

James River Nursing and Rehabilitation is a skilled nursing facility providing short-term rehabilitation and long-term care services. Nurses and therapists in short-term transitional care help individuals recover from hospitalizations and return home quickly and safely with physical, speech and occupational therapies. Individuals that can no longer live safely independently live proudly in the long-term nursing care facility. Residents have a warm home-like environment featuring appetizing menus by a registered dietician, diverse activities and social services.

Amenities

• Private & semi-private suites

• Two spacious dining rooms

• Therapy gym

• Comfortable day spaces & visiting areas

3550 E. Battlefield Rd., Springfield 417-889-9500 | jamesrivernursingandrehabilitation.com

Rahela Petian- Director of Community Relations and Admissions, John Milner, LNHA- Administrator

Residents putting together a puzzle.

Photos by Katy St. Clair

Magnolia Square Nursing & Rehab

Magnolia Square Nursing and Rehab is a skilled nursing facility that o ers both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care services. They also have a secure memory care neighborhood with sta specially trained to care for individuals with memory related conditions. Their short-term rehabilitation program helps guests recover quickly and safely from a hospitalization and return home, through skilled nursing services and physical, speech and occupational therapies.

Feel at home in their long-term care nursing facility with appetizing menus designed by a registered dietician, diverse activities and social services.

Amenities

• Outdoor courtyards

• Therapy gym

• Beauty salon

• Spacious private & semi-private suites

• Comfortable day spaces

1502 W. Edgewood St., Springfield 417-877-7545 | magnoliasquarenursingandrehab.com

The Maples Health & Rehabilitation

Whether you are in need of long-term care, hospice/respite services or short-term rehabilitation, The Maples Health & Rehabilitation offers it all in a warm, home-like environment. Their short-term rehabilitation program offers the highest level of comfort and convenience for individuals recovering from a hospitalization and assistance with transitioning back home.

Long-term care here focuses on making each resident feel at home with appetizing menus designed by a registered dietician, a diverse activity schedule, social services and nursing care.

Amenities

• State-of-the-Art therapy gym

• Private & semi-private suites

• Appetizing meals in a spacious dining room

610 W. Sunset St., Springfield 417-891-1700 | themapleshealthandrehabilitation.com

Residents baking cookies in memory care neighborhood.

A physical therapist working with a resident.

Photos by Katy St. Clair

Ozarks Elder Law

In the heart of the Ozarks, Lori Rook leads a mission at Ozarks Elder Law to safeguard Southwest Missouri’s aging population. With unwavering compassion as their cornerstone, the esteemed “Ladies in White” understand the nuances of planning ahead. Blending legal prowess with empathy, they guide clients through the complexities of estate planning, Medicaid, probate and nursing home planning.

With nine offices across Southwest Missouri, Ozarks Elder Law offers free consultations, offering guidance and peace of mind for all. Serving as a steadfast ally, they help shape legacies reflecting values, ensuring smooth execution while skillfully navigating families through future planning intricacies.

• Estate planning

• Long term care planning

• Elder abuse and neglect

• Powers of attorney

• Veterans benefits

• Wills & trusts

• Guardianship & conservatorship

• Nursing home Medicaid Services

• Special needs trust

• Probate

2832 South Ingram Mill Rd., Suite 100, Springfield 417-868-8200 | ozarkselderlaw.com

Craft your legacy.

Application window closes May 15. Apply today. 2024–2025 class meets monthly September–March.

Choosing a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertising.

Presented by Hosted by THE

Today is the best day to cultivate the next generation of leaders in your organization. The Legacy Network, brought to you by Biz 417, is perfect for those in manager, director or C-suite roles who have recently been promoted or are poised for growth.

Jack Stack Lori Robertson

Don Harkey

Karen Shannon David Cameron Brett Baker

Back row: Mel Myears, Lisa Dewoody-Clark, Katherine Douglas-Johnson

Front row: Tessa O’Donnell, Elyse Hartley, Lori Rook

Photos courtesy Ozark Elder Law

the

IS RIGHT

Hotter Than Jacquez Pizza from Cheri’s Happy Place is served with roasted red sauce, bacon, pepperoni, jalapeños and hot honey. Turn the page for more.

Photos by Brandon Alms

PIE PERFECTION

In a space adjoining Metropolitan Grill, Cheri’s Happy Place Pizza & Champagne Lounge serves wood- red pies for every taste bud.

BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES | PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS

 heri s appy Pla e o ers a o forta le at osphere for gathering ith friends and e lo e that the all art pro lai s heers in di erent lang ages on t iss the oral photo a drop

Longtime fans of Metropolitan Grill, are used to owner Pat Duran doing two things: Serving up consistently delicious eats at Metro Grill, and throwing out dining surprises every now and then that always delight. The most recent: Cheri’s Happy Place Pizza & Champagne Lounge, which opened last fall in a space adjoining Metropolitan Grill.

With its colorful and highly Instagrammable oral backdrop that just begs you to share your good time, Cheri’s Happy Place is the perfect chic-yet-casual spot to meet up with friends for a little bubbly and a little pizza—two of life’s greatest joys, if you ask us.

My husband, Eli, and I recently tasted some of the items from the menu at Cheri’s Happy Place, and they did not disappoint.

We started with a salad, the restaurant’s Cheri Caesar salad, with its crisp baby romaine lettuce, nutty Parmesan cheese and (my favorite part) super-crisp roasted garlic crouton rounds. The dressing was a non-traditional sweet basil pesto Caesar, which was so thick and avorful it could easily double as a veggie dip. It was a tasty starter, but we were most excited to try the pizza.

We ordered the Hotter than Jacquez and the Trease Me! pies. Like all the pizzas here, it’s 11 inches—big enough to split with a friend, especially if you’re also having a salad, drinks and apps. But if you have a big appetite, you might

ro top right he heri aesar Salad, the otter than a e pi a, the art an Sliders and a sto ild yo r o n pi a

be able to polish it o yourself. Eli and I ordered two pizzas, and we had a lot of leftovers! You can get a wheat crust or a gluten-free crust, but we opted for the house-made crust on both pizzas, which uses Italian Caputo our. The crust was the perfect balance of crunchy and chewy with that wood- red char that just sends a pizza over the edge in terms of avor. They use a wood- red oven that combines a traditional stone hearth and pecan-wood burning with more modern natural gas technology. I don’t know much about pizza oven technology, but I do know this: That crust is a delight.

Okay, back to the pizzas we ordered. The Hotter than Jacquez was my favorite. It came topped with roasted red sauce, house cheese blend, Parmesan cheese, sliced sausage and pepperoni— plus my two favorite components: jalapeños and hot honey. I simply cannot resist a pizza topped with some spicy jalapeños. And even though I usually don’t like sweet pizza toppings, that hot honey complements the savory meats and balances everything perfectly. This pizza checked all the boxes for me, and I will de nitely be ordering it again.

The Trease Me! pizza was excellent too. Like the other pizza, it had the house cheese blend. But it also had goat cheese (another one of my pizza weaknesses), romanesco red sauce, portobello mushrooms, caramelized onions and sausage. While the Hotter Than Jacquez’s jalapeños brought a fresh and spicy brightness to that pie, the Trease Me’s toppings went the opposite direction. The goat cheese and caramelized onions gave this pie a more earthy, creamy, warm avor.

o tails are ade ith ly at heri s appy Pla e, li e this tasty ha pagne argarita

It was delicious, and a nice avor partner to the other pizza when they were ordered together.

In addition to the regular pizza menu, Cheri’s lets you build your own pie (with excellent toppings beyond the expected ones, like fresh arugula or pulled pork). There are champagne-inspired cocktails too, plus you can order from the Metro Grill menu to get fun apps like sliders, desserts and kids menu meals. We ended our meal with a slice of moscato cake, which was light and u y with a not-too-sweet frosting that was the cherry on top of an excellent meal.

 he art an Sliders o e ith ho se ade potato hips on the side

CHERI’S HAPPY PLACE

Battlefield oad, Springfield 417-889-4951

etropolitan grill o it hen open onday h rsday p , riday Sat rday p $$

THE MEDITERRANEAN PLATTER

THE CONTRAST he s ooth h s alan es ell ith the salt and rine in the oli e tapenade, hile the tangy i fro the feta heese ro nds e erything o t

THE GREENS t all o es ith a petite signat re salad, hi h feat res a orf l toppings li e red onion, ran erries and Par esan heese all tossed in a alsa i inaigrette

B S

A Flavorful Fusion

I’m always on the hunt for food that’s delicious, nourishing, lling and fast. After trying The Gochu for the rst time, I can de nitely say it meets all four criteria. My husband Chandler and I decided to try out the new addition to 14 Mill Market (203 E. Mt. Vernon St., Nixa) on a cloudy Saturday evening. When we arrived, the food hall was lively and bustling, but we were still able to snag a table with ease. As far as our tab went, we ordered the hibachi yaki noodles with tofu and the Korean fried chicken with sweet chili sauce. I’m a sucker for a beautiful beverage, so I knew we had to try the purple yuzu lemon drink and an iced Thai tea as well. I’ve yet to meet an iced Thai tea I didn’t like, but this one was extra delicious thanks to the layer of cloud-like foam on top. The purple yuzu lemonade is also a layered drink, with hibiscus and butter y pea tea on top and lemonade sweetened with Korean honey on the bottom. The tea portion had a light fruity

from Tea Bar Bites (621 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield)

avor, while the lemon de nitely came forward the most. Chandler’s Korean chicken looked delicious and a bit like a more nutrient-dense version of Spring eld-style sweet-and-sour chicken, thanks to the addition of fresh greens. My hibachi yaki noodles were full of cooked veggies like mushrooms, cabbage, broccoli, onion

and carrots. However, my favorite part of this dish, surprisingly, wasn’t the noodles or the delicious Japanese mayo drizzle. It was actually the pickled ginger on top, which o ered a woody yet acidic avor to the dish. I left feeling full but not too heavy, and also a bit sad that the iced Thai tea was already all gone.—Tessa Cooper

SIP AND SNACK

Some bars go so hard on the drink menu that they aren’t left with much to give on the food menu. If you’re in the mood to go out for drinks but you’re also feeling a bit peckish, here’s where the chow isn’t just an afterthought.

BY TESSA COOPER

CELLAR + PLATE

cellarandplate.wine, 2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield

his ine ar lo ated right on the edge of alloay illage goes a little a o e and eyond in the ay of food o erings o o ld easily end p ordering a fo r o rse eal here, and they oneniently print ine pairing s ggestions right on the en

Must-Try Dish: he rea y talian rrata ser ed ith asil pesto, pros i tto, to atoes and rostini

THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB thegoldengirl.com, 137 Park Central Square, Springfield

erings li e pi a, ta os and na hos so nd li e pretty asi ar food B t a e no ista e, these dishes are far fro that, than s to the addition of ingredients li e i hi and hai pean t sa e

Must-Try Dish: he o se a en is ser ed ith raised por , fried egg, por elly and seasonal pi led eggies

THE ROYAL

theroyalmusichall.com, 427 E. Cherry, Ste. B, Springfield

he oyal is or ing ith a pint si ed it hen, t that doesn t stop the re fro p tting together finger foods ith tho ght o t ingredients or ea ple, the ho se ade he i is ased on the original re ipe

Must-Try Dish: he sal on rillettes, hi h is a dip ade ith s o ed Sal on, hipped rea heese, her s and spi es

VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE AND CONSERVATORY

rooftopvantage.com, 260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield

antage s en feat res nine di erent s all plates to hoose fro , pl s a ra ar o plete ith oysters, shri p and s allops

Must-Try Dish: he al ondigas, hi h are Spanish style eat alls ade ith ar ona al onds and fresh her s

S’more, Please!

The process of making a s’more on an open ame is so idyllic. But when you have a hankering for one but it’s not a bon re kind of day, track down Smore-ish Killer Desserts (instagram.com/smoreish.killerdesserts) The food truck makes frequent appearances all across 417-land, serving up s’mores bowls in novel avors like white chocolate raspberry and cookies ‘n cream. The strawberry Nutella one is de nitely a fan favorite. Like all the other bowls, it has a base of graham crackers broken into bite-sized pieces. On the inside, marshmallow creme, strawberry preserves and Nutella combine to create the most creamy, irresistible lling. However, the real pièce de résistance of the confection is the layer of toasted marshmallows on top.—Tessa Cooper

once in a BLUE MOON

While the blue mango smoothie from 417 Simply Better (2463 W. Sunshine Street at Metro Eats) is enticing yearround, something about it just hits di erently when you’re sipping it outside on a warm spring day. This is especially true when the sky matches this drink’s lovely hue, which comes from blue spirulina. Blue spirulina is a type of algae that contains all the good stu like antioxidants, protein, vitamin B and copper. Now let’s move on to the best part: the chocolaty, fruity avor. The ripe mango and bananas are already sweet in their own right, but the addition of dates, cacao and organic chocolate protein really makes this drink nutritious while still feeling a bit indulgent. Editor’s tip: Ask for a couple of toppings as a little extra treat, such as a few banana slices, dark chocolate chunks and a dusting of cinnamon.— Tessa

Cooper

DINING GUIDE 417

 Restaurant Listings, 102

 7 Good Things, 105

$= nder $$ ostly

$$$ and p

B ser es rea fast

L ser es l n h

D ser es dinner o tdoor seating

V li e si

M eeting spa e ser es al ohol s o e free ☎ reser ations re o ended heel hair a essi le WIFI free ifi

K o ers ids en

The 417 Magazine ining ide is a sele t list of resta rants in so th est isso ri pli itly, the aga ine s editors re o end all these resta rants he ining ide is not related to ad ertising, and 417 Magazine doesn t a ept free ies in e hange for re ie s or listings istings are pdated often they appear ased on spa e a aila ility esta rants that are ritten a o t in ining ide ite s s h as resta rant re ie s, resta rant pdate sto ries and ood hings are hosen y edi tors as a ser i e to readers

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

FINE DINING

ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA

1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd. Japanese. This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai o ers e ellent nigiri and sashi i, as ell as s all plates and tapas o ha e to try the deli io s t na igars or the hot ro dish that ses agy eef or dessert, the at ha re e r lee is o r fa orite Be s re to order fro the sa e en $$–$$$ D ☎

AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING

1908 S. Glenstone Ave., (new address later this month: 3240 S. Fremont Ave.), Springfield, 417-567-3463,avanzareitaliandining.com Northern Italian Pasta is al ays a hit at an are, a longti e Springfield fa orite eal dishes are top not h at this talian eatery, t yo ll ha e to pi the right night, as they re only ser ed on e or t i e a ee sto ers lo e the Biste a ose arino stea and the pasta ith seafood in a spi y to ato ased sa e nd lge in the l s io s ho olate torte for dessert pen on ri , a p on h , p ri Sat , p S n , p $$$ LD M ☎ WIFI K

BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT

416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007. Sicilian. he atini ith pan hetta, hili oil and asil is a st try pasta dish et it ith the ar g la salad ith pine n ts and Par esan heese lso on the en is pi a, agy stea and lots of e ellent entree options he e er hanging spe ials al ays so nd e tra tasty, li e the re ent o ering of shellfish aran ini pen es h , p ri Sat , p $$$ D M ☎ WIFI

CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR

1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8238383. Steak and seafood. he for er o h esta rant yster Bar retains so e stand y dishes li e a on rapped dates and hi en Bi an in its ne iteration as har Stea ho se yster Bar o ned y the sa e people , t o erings of ayg stea s, la shan and fish p the ante o ster potato p ree and rispy ash fried Br ssels spro ts ro nd o t the side dishes, and ra oysters, e i he and ore pi e the appetite as starters pen on h , p ri Sat , p id night S n , p $$$ D WIFI M ☎

CHATEAU GRILLE

415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-2431777, chateauonthelake.com.Contemporary American hatea on the a e esort Spa on ention enter, hatea rille o ers gorgeo s ie s of a le o a e nd yo really an t go rong ith anything on the en here he resta rant fo ses on ps ale, seasonal isine, ying in fresh seafood and so r ing lo al ingredients for the a ard in ning en pen daily d ring the reg lar sea son open d ring ee ends only d ring the o season $$$ BLD M ☎ WIFI K

CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL

815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com. Contemporary American his oplin hot spot ser es so e fantasti seafood, and e e en oyed e erything e e tried there he hilean sea ass is a spe ialty ry so e of the s all plates, li e porto ello shroo fries, stea ed ssels or a lo ely har terie oard here are also so e great entree salad options pen on Sat , a p $$–$$$ LD M ☎ WIFI K

FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR

314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-4444, flamesteakhouse.com. American steakhouse he resta rant spe iali es in dry aged stea s that are tr ly deli io s on t iss the lo ster a aroni and heese e re serio s yo ha e to try this st he desserts are al ays di ine, and e an t get eno gh of the appeti er en ead to ed oo do nstairs for iller happy ho r food and drin spe ials pen for dinner on h , p , ri Sat , p ed oo open p to ar ho rs $$$ D WIFI K M ☎

THE GARRISON at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com Upscale shareable plates o ated eneath the ar ill at inley ar s, he arrison feat res a dar and oody spea easy i e, a fine dining en and a ea tif l ri erside patio ry the ini pot roast, the forest pan anella salad or the delightf l rose ary po nd a e Be s re to order one of the deli io s o tails espe ially the refreshing ill Pond that goes great alongside all the dishes e tried pen eds Sat p $$$ D M ☎

GILARDI’S

820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-862-6400, gilardisonwalnut.com Northern Italian. Owner a es artin fo ses on hand ade pasta and fresh ingredients at this har ing little talian resta rant that a es a onderf l date night spot on t iss the a a ing eat alls in red ine rose ary rea sa e that are ser ed o er a ed of rea y goat heese polenta nd e s re to dine in the o tdoor seating area hen the eather allo s pen on Sat , p $$$ D WIFI M ☎

HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR

3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com.Japanese he h y od roll and the Se and the ity roll are trade ar s here f si ple nigiri is yo r style, yo ll lo e the t na sa pler Be s re to ent re o the s shi en and try so e of the dele ta le entrees as ell on t iss the i i ap or the fresh ango alape o ahi t na entree f yo lo e a spi y ite, a e s re yo try the seafood so p Pair it ith a little it of nigiri or one of the resta rant s tasty a i rolls ll of the are desli io s on ri , a p , p idnight Sat , a p , p idnight S n , a p $$–$$$ LD M K ☎ V

HARVEST RESTAURANT

8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville. Contemporary American. 417-830-3656. ining at ar est esta rant is an e perien e li e none other in land he o ners, raig and a ara on oerster, ha e reated a resta rant fo sed on hyper seasonal, lo al isine ltho gh the en is onstantly in , raig is no n for his shroo risotto and s allop trio f either of these dishes is on the en hen yo is it ar est, order the i ediately pen h Sat , p pen S nday for r n h, a p $$$ D M ☎

JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB

1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-886-5466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com.American steakhouse. e lo e the tasty stea s here hey are al ays pre pared perfe tly he st ed Peppade peppers are a st try appeti er tr st s, yo need to taste those things he peppers are st ed ith rea heese, rapped in a on and dri led ith a alsa i gla e nd if yo lo e a good salad ar, i s has one of the est f yo re feeling ad ent ro s, try the o en s othered ri eye for a little de aden e esserts are al ays a treat here as ell pen S nday, a p on h , a p ri Sat a p $$–$$$ L D M ☎ WIFI K

KAI

306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-832-0077, kaiafterdark.com. Contemporary Japanese and Korean. his lo nge li e resta rant in do nto n Springfield has fantasti s shi t has the sa e o ners as ar no, hi h is fa o s for their in redi le rolls so yo no it ll e deli io s on t iss the resta rant s la od or sea ass entrees ith deli io s asa i risotto hey are st as i pressi e as the s shi rolls here are so e great o tail and appeti er options here as ell n h on ri , a p inner on h , p idnight ri Sat , p a $$–$$$ LD M ☎

LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE

The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3443, level2steakhouse. com. Steakhouse. his Branson resta rant spe iali es in stea s, t its gooey tter a e dessert is gaining a follo ing ry the ansas ity strip stea and the egg noodles ith heese f yo li e to start yo r eal ith greens, the aesar salad is a st try it o es topped ith deli io s fried an ho ies lso, don t iss the fresh a aiian ahi t na ser ed on a i alayan salt lo delightf l on t sleep on the pri e ri dip sand i h, either pen daily, a p , p $$$ B L D WIFI M K

METROPOLITAN GRILL

2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com.Eclectic fine dining. Known for its dele ta le ash fried spina h, this resta rant spe iali es in stea s and seafood he salads are al ays fresh and deli io s nd e lo e that the en is al ays hanging, gi ing s so ething ne and deli io s to e e ited a o t ser ed in a fa iliar spa e he o tails are deli io s, the ine en is onder f l and the ser i e is al ays top not h pen on h , p ri , p Sat , p $$$ D M ☎ WIFI K

Immerse yourself in culinary mastery with our Italian chef Alessandro De Luca’s cooking classes, Monday–Thursday. You can explore the depths of Italian cuisine, mastering techniques and savoring tradition all at once. Then, on Friday, indulge in the authenticity of an Italian trattoria, where each dish captures the essence of Italy's diverse regions.

Indulge in culinary delights, epic game-day vibes, and crafted cocktails. Elevate your experience with every bite, game, and sip.

Hours:

Mon.–Thurs. 11a.m. –11p.m.

Fri. & Sat. 11–1a.m.

The Happiest Hour: Mon.–Fri. 2–6p.m.

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE

3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-886-3700, nicolasspringfield.com. Italian. his resta rant ser es a deli io s sea ass ry the l a he fresh snails sa teed in garli tter and a ed ith Par esan heese l ten free pasta and pi a are a aila le he hi en par igiano is a highlight definitely orth ordering he i ola s pi a here is also s per tasty, and the dessert en is i pressi e pen on Sat , p lose $$–$$$ D WIFI M ☎

OCEAN ZEN PACIFIC RIM RESTAURANT

4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-889-9596, eatoceanzen.com. Asian fusion. ry hilean sea ass or the a ada ia n t hi en e parti larly lo e ordering the a aii i e s shi roll ith seared rare t na and a pineapple salsa, it s a tasty o ination of sa ory, s eet, spi y and refreshing pen S n h , a p ri Sat , a p ar loses at p happy ho r p and last t o ho rs of operation

$$–$$$ LD M ☎ WIFI K

THE ORDER

at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-832-1515, theordersgf.com. New American. Step inside the andi ort otel and t rn left for a do n to n Springfield dining e perien e not to e issed he at osphere is trendy t rela ed hile the food is an ele ated ta e on eri an isine prepared in a fro s rat h it hen Br n h is e ellent here too pen for dinner on Sat p , S n p r n h Sat S n a p ar open daily p lose $$–$$$ D M V ☎ K WIFI

OSAGE RESTAURANT

at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-225-6343, topoftherock.com.American a e in ea tif l ie s fro the dining roo at sage esta rant, lo ated at op of the o , and en oy fine dining that in l des stea s and roasted hi en he fried hi en is stellar, and the o tails en al ays o ers reated and deli io s options eser ations are re o ended ollared shirts are re o ended af ter p pen e Sat , p ine ellar and B alo Bar open later Br n h ser ed S n , a p $$$ B D K M ☎

RETRO METRO

2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-720-1708, eatretrometro.com. his thro a on ept rings a de ades of old etropolitan rill fa orites and ite a fe rand ne a ors too fro o ner hef iny he aptly na ed etro etro ser es so e of etropolitan s greatest hits, in l ding ash fried spina h and hi en spiedini B t there are original ite s on the en as ell, fro hef iny hi self pen es Sat p $$$ D WIFI

S

65 TAPAS

3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-827-2777, tapas65.com. Spanish. S all plates ith friends at this Spanish style spot ishes in l de rrata, har grilled oysters, and ore here are a ariety of larger entrees a aila le too, li e paella eser ations re ired on ee ends pen es Sat p $$–$$$ D

ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-1234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs.com. American fare.1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-1234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs.com. American fare. he resta rant at ndy B s ntertain ent enter o ers lane side food ser i e and a en f ll of hearty, tasty fare li e rgers, pi as, pasta and ore Bon s here s a f ll ser i e ar here, too Springfield open S n h , a id night ri Sat , a Branson open on h , noon p ri , noon p Sat , a p S n , a p $ L D M K

AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS

2144 E. Republic Road, Suite E120, Springfield, 417881-9736; aviarycafe.com. Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long een no n for eing one of the fe pla es in the area to get freshly prepared repes hi h yo an find there in oth sa ory and s eet arieties B t there s so h ore esides repes here are also ea tif l salads and deli ifo s entrees that ha e a little it of ren h air Be s re to try dishes inf sed ith a ender alls a ors, li e the la ender honey and goat heese appeti er that is ser ed ith risp rostini and fresh erries pen on h a p and p , ri Sat a p and p S n a p $–$$ B L D ☎ K

BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL

3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-368-5919; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-732-5077; 701 N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-725-3777; bairsburgers.com.American here are appeti ers and rgers on the en at Bair s, pl s plenty of non rger sand i hes, great hi en ings and salads e lo e the rger that is topped ith ran h dress ing and fried pi les So ind lgent and deli io s o an get other sa ies too, li e fried por tenderloin, Philly heesestea s or triple de er l s sta ed tall or an appeti er, dig into a plate of fried green eans o rs ary y lo ation $ L D K

BEST OF LUCK BEER HALL

313-B S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield; 417-522-9009; bestofluckbeerhall.com. American. This downtown eer hall o ines a yard har ith iller food and ore eers than yo an o nt f s ds aren t yo r thing, try a seasonal o tail or one of the draft al oholi p n hes he e tensi e food en in l des a or spins on oo o t fa orites, li e i y heddar rst rats, salty shoestring fries ith dipping sa es, and i hi spi ed fried hi en sand i hes he eer hall also has a fa t rf la n a aila le for rent for ga es of o e, ags and ore pen e h , a idnight ri Sat , a a Br n h Sat S n , a p $$ B L D

BIG EASY GRILL

3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040. Cajun. he a alaya is fantasti , and e li e to order it e tra spi y he oyster po oys are sto er fa or ites, and the o din a n sa sage alls are not to e issed ry i and at h dishes to reate a eal f ll of yo r fa orite a n a ors yo an order a side of red eans and ri e ith a po oy, for e a ple r yo o ld st eep it si ple and dig into the peel and eat shri p pen on Sat , a p $ L D K

BIGSHOTS GOLF

1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-427-3040, bigshotsgolf.com. American. o e for the golf t stay for the good eats here are great rgers li e the do le s ash rger ith at h green hilis , pi a, ings and lots of sharea le apps li e the rispy red hili a li o er on t iss the f n o tails e lo ed the Bee Sting, ade ith te ila, aga e, grapefr it, li e i e and alape o So good Be s re to stop y for r n h on the ee ends pen on h a p , ri a idnight, Sat a idnight, S n a p $$ B L D

BIG WHISKEY’S

Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com. American. Springfield s go to for alo hi en dip, rgers and the staple p foods has lo ations spreading thro gho t the id est ans ra e a o t the spin dip too a heesy on o tion ith spina h and a little it of heat on t iss the e er pop lar rgers, in l d ing the pret el rger ith horseradish aioli, a on and heddar here are also eaty hi en ings, a handf l of salads e li e the Stra erry ill , hand t stea s and ore o rs ary y lo ation s a o t r n h ser i e $$ B L D

BISTRO 58

15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-7731985, vcellars.com. Bistro fare. his resta rant is o the eaten path and o ers a stellar sele tion of ine, a tasty l n h en and a seasonal onthly dinner en y sand i hes fill the l n h en , li e the s per tasty Steph sand i h t feat res a ia atta roll that is topped ith roasted hi en, orgon ola heese, fig a and a on for a onderf l salty and s eet a or profile lso e s re to he o t the riday night dinners pen e Sat , a p ri , p $ L D WIFI

BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES

209 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-319-5905; 2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, 417-368-0227; 2420 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-351-3595; blaaacksheep. com Burgers his s an y t o forta le rger oint is lo ated in do nto n Springfield, ith o t posts in hesterfield illage and on ast S nshine Street ho do n on the ood ogi t o grass fed patties are topped ith hite heddar, lett e, on ion, pi le and aaad sa e ho se ade ho sand sland dressing egetarian Bla Sheep has yo o ered ith its ippy en he sha es are great here too, ith oth id friendly options and gro n p ersions ith al ohol or the ad lts, e re o end trying the P rple a e sha e ith la erry oonshine in it pen on h , a p ri Sat , a idnight S n , a p $ L D M

BLACKSTONE GASTROPUB

1521 E. Broadway St., Joplin, 417-553-0665 Gastropub a ien iregol of ra y s Seafood Bar

rill no has another oplin eatery Bla stone astrop feat res hand rafted o tails and eers on tap alongside so e great loo ing eats li e the rispy fried hi en, grilled sal on on a ed of gn o hi eep an eye o t for Bla stone s s per reati e daily spe ials e ently, e e seen a Seattle oll ith s o ed rnt end sa sage and a ton of toppings, and s ash rger grilled ta os ith alape o ran h sla pen eds Sat a p S n a p on a p $ $ L D

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

1

 Ec e on o ee (2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, echeloncoffee.com) has added a few ne ite s to their en , and e re espe ially e ited a o t The Commuter t s a sand i h ade ith ris et fro ity B t her and their ris et slaps piled onto a rio he n and topped ith ho e ade honey serrano rea heese and a fried egg

2 n a shopping trip to Joplin Empire Market (931 E. Fourth St., Joplin, JoplinEmpireMarket. com), e p r hased an e ellent l n h of homemade dumplings and fresh spring rolls from the little on site afe Bon s hey e en o er free sa l n hes for ids

3

hen e ra e a lassi , ind lgent rea fast, e go to Billy Gail’s Restaurant (three 417land locations, billygailsrestaurant.com) and order the assi e pancakes that are the si e of a dinner plate Bigger e en they hang o the edge

4

hen it o es to sharea les for the ta le, toasted ravioli is a ong o r fa orites he ones at Piccolo (107 W. Aldersgate Dr., Nixa, eat-

piccolo.com) are hand readed, st ed ith eef and perfe tly rispy, so they definitely satisfy o r ra ing for their St o is original

5 e lo e hen a rger oint has tr ly good veggie burger options, and Black Sheep (multiple Springfield locations, blaaacksheep.com) fits the ill heir eggie y eart rger in l des a ho e ade eggie patty that s topped ith all the lassi rispy rger eg, pl s garli ayo and hite heddar heese

6 hat s etter than a ig B ig B ade ith s o ed a on The Big KC Style from Galloway Grill (4211 Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, gallowaygrill.com) has tons of it, pl s lett e, to atoes, ayo, onions, heese and toast he t s a doo y

7 all s oring, t e an t get eno gh of the classic lemon a or hen e go to Rita’s Italian Ice (2100 W. Republic Road, Suite 112, Springfield, ritasice.com) t s s eet, tart and refreshing Blend it ith anilla stard for so ething that tastes li e a le on free er pie

7 Good Things is chosen by the editors of aga ine as a service to readers. We’ve tried

this list, and we like it. To send us your suggestions, click Contact Us on

letter to the editor. –The Editors

BLUE HERON FARM & BAKERY

206 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-701-1130 Farm-to-table ll of the freshly a ed pastries and reads are a a ing here hey do so e reati e things ith pastry, fro tender galettes filled ith loads of l io s le on rd to a y pot pies filled ith sa ory eats and eggies any of the ingredi ents are fro Bl e eron ar and other lo al and regional prod ers e lo e the sa sage roll ser ed ith pi les and hole grain stard pen eds Sat a p , S n a p $ B L

CAFE CUSCO

234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-868-8088, cafecusco.com. Peruvian. his en is pa ed ith f n and ne pe ted dishes that are inspired y the isine of Per and the ndes o ntains fe stando ts the la ean inoa rger ith a o a do spread, the o o Saltado, and a host of deli io s entrees nything that in l des the e i he is a s re et o an e en order the e he de igre appeti er to get yo r e i he fi it is a shot of e i he i e ith hot sa e and a hilled shri p haser pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p S n , a p $$

L D M WIFI

CANYON GRILL RESTAURANT at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon. org. American. o ated on the gro nds of the spra l ing, spe ta lar og ood anyon nat re preser e, the anyon rill esta rant oo es r sti elegan e and oasts a en inspired y its earthy s rro ndings ry the ison rger ade ith a on and ara eli ed onion topped ith fire roasted po lano peppers and pepper a heese pen daily, a p $–$$ L D M

CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE

601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800. Cafe fare hat do yo get hen yo o ine a o ee shop, ar, afe and li or store herry Pi er Pa age are s all sele tion of sand i hes, so ps and sal ads is ser ed daily e re ig fans of the o Brie or ot to Brie an rtisan en ag ette topped ith salted tter spread, thinly sli ed ha , apri ot preser es and a sli e of rie pen on h , a p ri Sat , a idnight $ BL D

CIVIL KITCHEN & TAP

107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-5018456, civilkitchenandtap.com. Bar fare. ith eers on tap and hi en and a es on the en , it is easy to see the appeal of this r sti t o forta le resta rant and ar Spe iali ing in ps ale o fort food, i il it hen and ap dra s inspo fro So thern and id estern staples pen e Sat , a a S n , a idnight $ B L D M ☎

CLUB 609

609 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-6090, club609.com. Casual fine dining. he en o ers e erything fro sand i hes to stea s on t iss the pe an en r st ed hi en or grilled ahi t na entrees and e s re to order the ith a side of ash fried spina h here is a ide ariety of entree salads yo ha e to try the o , and so ps are ade fresh e ery day hey also ha e a iller happy ho r he it hen is open S n h , a p ri Sat , a p ar is open till lose $$ L D K ☎

DERBY DELI

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

Cafe fare. o ated inside Bro n er y nternational ine enter, this eatery feat res sand i hes, sal ads, a ariety of heese plates and sala i plates, a h s oard and ore e lo e the artin s salad, topped ith o en roasted hi en, or the o al oat salad topped ith a s oop of hi en salad on t iss the Parisian sand i h ith rose ary ha , President s tter and gr yere on a ag ette pen on ri , a p for l n h, e ri , a p for s all plates Sat , a p $ L D

DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT

at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417335-2777, bigcedar.com. American. ere yo an en oy a tasty eal hile at hing a gorgeo s ie of a le o a e or an appeti er, the s o ed tro t is fantasti , and so is the orn read topped ith ra ed pepper aple tter and s o ed a on he entrees hange ith the season and are al ays the perfe t lend of r sti and ps ale Br n h on S ndays pen daily for rea fast, a l n h, a p dinner, p $$–$$$ BL D WIFI K M ☎ high season

DOBYNS DINING ROOM

1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu.American he s o ed to ato so p is no yo r so s o deli io s ollege of the ar s st dents gro prod e and raise eat to se in the resta rant, so the en has a ery far to ta le ality here s a fried green to ato aprese appe ti er that ses pi led to atoes and a ho se ade o arella heese or so ething hearty, try the por elly shri p and grits it pa s a it of spi e ry the hi ory s o ed pri e ri h rsday thro gh Sat rday on t iss the ho olate o ler for dessert he e tensi e r n h et on S ndays is e ellent pen on Sat , a p S n , a p $$ BLD WIFI K M ☎

DOWNING STREET POUR HOUSE

24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse. com. Ser ing ele ated ar food and reati e, hearty entrees, o ning Street Po r o se is the rain hild of the a ard inning ar e e slingers ho o n ettin Basted B t there s a lot ore than st ar e e here st try dishes in l de the giant Ba arian pret el appeti er, the eso s othered ta ales and the la ened ahi ahi entree on t iss the agy rgers pen in ollister on h a p , ri Sat a p , S n a p pen in Springfield S n h a p , ri Sat a p $– $ $ LD WIFI K

FARMERS GASTROPUB

2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-864-6994, farmersgastropub.com. Contemporary British and American. he en here feat res lo ally so r ed ingredients here er possi le and hanges reg larly he entrees are ell pri ed and satisfying, li e the S ot h eggs and the hi en hop salad ar g la, ale, a age, l e heese, oiled egg, p p in seeds, tter il dressing here s also a great sele tion of eer, and the rgers and fish and hips are al ays deli io s Br n h Sat rdays and S ndays pen on h , a p ri , a p Brea fast ser ed on ri , a Sat , a p S n , a p $$ B L D M

☎ WIFI K

FIRE & ICE

2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-866-5253, oasisfireandice.com. Global cuisine. his spot lo at ed inside a ada asis otel on ention enter spe iali es in dry aged stea s and ertified ng s eef and has a deli io s en that hanges ith the seasons Be s re to try the ire e his ey B rger ith a a er s ar his ey gla e and rispy fried on ions pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p S n , a p $$ L D M

☎ WIFI K

GEORGIA MAC’S

1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-319-5770, georgiamacs.com. Southern sports bar. The food is hearty and o forting ith a so thern are at this so th Springfield eatery o an find loaded rgers li e the one topped ith alape o ottle aps , fried atfish, o ntry fried stea , loaded fries ith tons of toppings, and lots ore he hi en fingers are so e of the est e e e er had get the ith s eet po tato fries , and the eorgia ot hi en sand i h pa s a ig a or ith ild heat pen on Sat a a , S n a idnight $ $ LD

THE GROTTO

301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-886-9600 gogrotto.com. West Coast–style American. The menu is a essi le to eat eaters and egetarians ali e he s per ind lgent ar l e heese hips are a fa orite appeti er sto ers li e the rgers espe ially the rger topped ith lots of tangy l e heese ne of o r fa orite things to order is the grilled sal on sand i h ith a side of the s eet and y y s eet potato fries pen on Sat , a p S n , a p $ LD K

HOULIHAN’S

2431 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-862-7777; houlihans.com. American he fish ta os and rgers are fantasti , and e lo e the enor o s na hos appe ti er along ith the ast salad sele tion ra so e friends and share a fe of the s all plates hen the eather is ni e, e s re to gra a ta le on the patio, here yo an gather aro nd a fire pit hile yo en oy yo r eal pen on h , a p ri Sat , a idnight S n , a p $–$$ L D M WIFI K

HUEY MAGOO’S CHICKEN TENDERS

3352 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-812-8020, hueymagoos.com. Chicken tenders. he region s first ey agoo s hi en enders is lo ated in Springfield near S nshine Street and igh ay his spot o ers hi en tenders oth fried or grilled in platters, sand i hes, salads and raps f yo get tenders, dip the in the Spi y agoo s ho e ade sa e e li e the agoo s a orite Salad ith greens, ran erries, al n ts, to atoes and a not too s eet rasp erry al n t inaigrette dressing e li e to get it ith grilled hi en $–$$ L D K

HY EE

1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-8224; 2150 E. Sunshine St., Springfield; hy-vee.com. This is al ays a great pla e to find so ething for e ery e er of yo r fa ily e en the pi y ones o ha e a hi a hi grill, a pi eria, hearty o fort food, s shi, hinese dishes and ahl rgers rgers $–$$ BL

D WIFI

LA HABANA VIEJA

220 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-771-5723, la-habana-vieja.com. Cuban ind great o itos and a en f ll of an fare at this o er ial Street eatery ry the ropa ie a, a s national dish of eef ris et, ri e and eggies o an also get an appe ti er of y a fries, or e i he that s ser ed ith plan tain hips pen on Sat a p and p $$–$$$ L D

MACCHEESY’S

1920 E. Independence St., Springfield, 417-351-3084; 2202 S. Range Line Road, Joplin, 417-691-8256; maccheesys.com. here are arieties of loaded a aroni and heese and types of grilled heese sand i hes on the en here, along ith so ps, sal ads and so e o er the top sha es that are piled high ith tons of ild toppings pen daily a p $–$$ LD K

NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE

2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-3403, nearlyfamous.net. Deli and Italian eg lars lo e the ee ly spe ials egg salad on ridays, pear sand i hes on h rsdays and ore he to ato so p is fantasti , and it goes ell ith st a o t any sand i h at this friendly spot t s hopping at l n hti e, and the dinner ho rs o er a en filled ith tasty pasta dishes pen on Sat , a p $$ B L D K M

NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY

1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417720-4162; neighborsmill.com. on t iss the honey pe an hi en salad, hi h o es on Bron e honey heat read, or the e en, hi h o es on p perni el rye read hey ha e t o so ps of the day, one of hi h is egetarian pen on Sat , a p $ B L D K

THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT

at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com. nside the ea tif lly restored ar ill, yo an order ps ale far to ta le eals that are ade ith ingredients gro n right at inley ar s or prod ed in their on site api ary on t iss the in redi le risotto fritters appeti er ade ith arti ho e, sa sage, o arella and ser ed o er a pi led pepper aioli pen daily a p $$–$$$ L D M K

QUEEN CITY SOUL KITCHEN

1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-379-8614, facebook.com/QueenCitySoulKitchen. Soul food. The en hanges fro ee to ee here, t the of ferings are al ays deli io s ind o forting fare li e eatloaf, fried hi en ings, s othered por hops and ore ea e roo for dessert pen h rsday S nday a p $–$$ L D

RED ONION CAFÉ

204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe. com. American/Italian. he edo hi en is a s to er fa orite iners also lo e the a on rapped shri p, the la ened t na sand i h or a e s fried hi en salad ry the B he stands for a o ado y here s e en a se tion of the en ith teo friendly options that are lo ar and gl ten free i e entertain ent e ery third h rsday pen on Sat , a p $$ L D WIFI K

ROSIE JO’S CAFE

1711 S. 15th St., Ozark, 417-581-6047. American. This pla e is a ery pop lar hango t at rea fast ti e ith great daily spe ials, and it also has great ho e ade pies, in l ding s rprising ones li e goose erry he fried hi en is deli io s at this eatery, and so are the fried dill pi les and the onion rings pen on Sat , a p S n , a p $ BL D K

SPLIT SOCIAL KITCHEN

3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-755-7155, splitspringfield.com. American. o e for reati e and ea tif lly prepared sharea les, li e rrata ith tr e pesto, that are ser ed in a teeny resta rant spa e that pa s a lot of good i es e lo e the a a ing a aroni and heese o e on the ee end to try the tasty r n h en pen es ri a p , Sat a p , S n a p $$ BL D

ST. MICHAEL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE

301South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315.American he rgers are top not h, and the h ge salads topped ith deli io sly seasoned grilled hi en reast are a fa orite try the one ith spi y a n hi en y o e h ngry eno gh to order des sert e a se the a es are stellar r fa orite is the drea y anana a e f yo need to feed a ro d, their talian atering options ne er disappoint pen on ed , a p h , a p ri Sat , a p $–$$ L D K ☎

TEA BAR & BITES

621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417-866-7500, teabarandbites. com. erything e e tasted at ea Bar Bites has een fantasti ry the rry hi en salad or the y y i he ith ea tif l, a y r st e lo e any of the en ite s that ha e a editerranean air he en feat res plenty of egan, egetarian and gl ten free options here are a ed goods too, li e giant ara el rolls or s eet o on t rea p a es pen on h , a p ri , a p Sat , a p $ B L D M ☎ V

VAN GOGH’S EETERIE

334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie.com. Indo-Dutch. t h pan a es, hi en itlof and other ndo t h and t h inspired isine pop late the en at this o er ial Street hotspot fro oe id an of afe s o e lo e the pan a es espe ially the ar ear ers topped ith goat heese, apples, honey, ar g la and thy e or so ething pa ed ith eggies, the i a s Sta ppot entree is perfe t pen e h , a p ri Sat , a p S n , a p $$ B L D ☎

B B

BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ

2002 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com. iners lo e the ri s and the rnt ends at this lassi ar e e eatery e an t get eno gh of the iller s o ed sal on topped ith horseradish sa e nd don t iss the alape o ot tle aps f yo re e tra h ngry, get the a ed potato that s o ered ith st a o t e erything pen daily, a p $ L D WIFI K

Cashew Chicken

Crab Rangoon

CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE

3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-720-1113, citybutchersgf.com. o e early e a se this e as style ar e e spot, here the eat is s o ed in s all at hes for opti al freshness, is no n to sell o t iller ris et, p lled por and other fa orites are sold first o e, first ser ed ith a fe si ple t deli io s side dish options pen daily a ntil sold o t $–$$ L D M

CROSSTOWN BBQ

1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646. ry the ri s or the ris et he Big Pappa inner is a signat re dish, and it feat res tons of eat in l ding ri s, ris et and hot lin s e lo ed the s o ed hi en salad for so ething that feels healthy and ind lgent at the sa e ti e pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p $–$$ L D ☎ K

GETTIN’ BASTED

2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com. o e here for a ard in ning ar e e in all yo r fa orite arieties ris et, ri s, p lled por and ore he se en agy rgers on the en are f lly loaded, and the apps ga e is strong ith ho e ade pi ento heese, ar e e na hos and ore e an t get eno gh of the por ta os appeti er pen S n h rs a p ri Sat a p $–$$ LD K

HEA Y BAR B E O

573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq.com. his spot spe iali es in ansas ity style ar e e ong stellar ri s, ris et and ore perfe tly pre pared eats, yo an find ne pe ted dishes ith a ar e e spin na hos, salads, a rrito pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p S n , a p $–$$ LD M K

MISSOURI MIKE’S BBQ & MORE

2833 W. Chestnut Expy., Springfield, 417-771-5018, momikesbbq.com. n additional to ery ell done las si ar e e options ris et, rnt ends, p lled por , yo an also get a handf l of great sand i hes he yndsey is a s ash rger ith p lled por , ris et, ar e e sa e and ole sla pen on Sat a p $–$$ LD K

PAPPY’S PLACE

943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744. Be s re not to iss the por spare ri s ith Pappy s ar e e sa e or the ar e e na hos at this long r nning Springfield instit tion he resta rant s daily spe ials are deli io s, too pen on Sat , a p $ L D

B S

BILLY GAIL’S CAFE

5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com. Billy ail s in Branson has een a elo ed rea fast hotspot for ages he ar spot and has e o e st as pop lar o e for assi e pan a es and other rea fast fare he ar lo ation ser es dinner on the ee ends Branson open daily a p ar open daily a p and ri Sat a p $ B L D

THE BRUNCHEONETTE

424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net. e lo e the reati e ta es on eggs Benedi t that e e fo nd at he Br n heonette, hose en hanges ee ly t is al ays interesting on t iss yo r han e to order a plate of po tine, hand t fries topped ith gra y, shredded heese and a poa hed egg pen ed ri , a p Sat S n , a ntil s pplies r n o t $ B L

EARLY BIRD BREAKFAST PUB

1717 E. Cherokee St., Springfield, 417-885-8088. This spot ser es p reati e rea fast fare and has a f ll ser i e ar h rning o t rea fast argaritas and the il on t iss the ta os, rritos, traditional rea fast fare, sand i hes and ore pen on ri , a p Sat , a p S n , a p $ B L

FIRST WATCH

2946 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-889-0601; 3103 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-633-7094; firstwatch.com. o traditional ith a plate piled ith rispy a on, eggs and toast r order so ething ore reati e t irst at h yo an find rea fast po er o ls li e the one filled ith inoa, sa sage, shroo s, to atoes, ale and eggs , le on ri otta pan a es, a o ado toast, a s perfood o l ith hia p dding and fr it and lots ore on t iss the l n h treats, too pen daily, a p $ BL K

GAILEY’S BREAKFAST CAFÉ

220 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-5500. The s eet potato hash ro ns are s per delish here, and e highly re o end ordering the in pla e of the traditional hash ro ns f yo re feeling a little British, try he ll onty pen S n es , a p , ed Sat , a p $ B L WIFI K

JW’S KITCHEN

2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997. his r n h spot o es fro the o ners of ar ers astrop , ndy and isty a pshire t feat res e ellently prepared fa orites and so e f n s rprises o an get is its ith ho olate gra y a so thern eri an fa orite or a f ll nglish rea fast la sa sage in l ded and e erything in et een pen eds on a p $ $ BL WIFI

RISE

105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-691-6088, 417rise.com. he large and aried en is in enti e and s per ly e e ted, ith le er dishes li e pa lo a inspired ren h toast, a la a inspired Belgian a ees, oth s eet and sa ory ri e p dding eals, no rishing grain o ls, rea fast sand i hes fro lassi to reati e and so h ore pen on ri a p Sat S n a p $ BL WIFI

SLEEPY OPOSSUM CAFE

1427 E. Cherry St., Springfield, 417-379-9401, danisflourpotbakery.com. o ated inside he oyal, this dar ling spot ser es reati e, lassi and al ays deli io s rea fast fare e are o sessed ith their hash ro n i hes, and the ho e ade is its topped ith e erything seasoning are to die for ny a ed s eet is a drea here too, espe ially the filled don ts and any of the reati e a es pen es ri a p Sat a p , r n h the first S nday of the onth a noon $ BL WIFI

VILLAGE INN FAMILY RESTAURANT

Multiple 417-land locations, villageinn.com. ry the rea fast s illets, eggs Benedi t and, of o rse, the s per tasty pies e lo e the repes and other s eet rea fast o erings, too t rea fast, yo an ild yo r o n eal y pi ing fo r ite s fro a long list of lassi rea fast fa orites o rs ary y lo ation $ BL D WIFI K ☎

S

BAO BAO CHINESE BISTRO

2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite A104, Springfield, 417877-7505. hinese food fans, this is a st try spot for yo e st eep hearing ra e re ie s a o t Bao Bao hinese Bistro his little spot in hesterfield illage has a hef ho sed to o n a resta rant in Shanghai, so there are se eral a thenti ite s on the en pen S n h , a p Sat , a p $ L D

CORNER 21

1369 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-766-6630, corner21us.com. he en o ers a large ariety of a thenti hinese dishes o ll e en find dishes that aren t o on on lo al hinese resta rant en s, s h as raised por elly ith ri e noodles, ri eye and eno i shroo s in a rry roth, rispy fried p p in, spi y Si h an fish and so h ore pen es h rs a p , ri Sat a p , S n a p $ L D

LEONG’S ASIAN DINER

1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-887-7500. he eong fa ily ser es its original ashe hi en at this tasty eatery, a ong lots of other y y st he egg rolls are a lassi , ade fro s rat h ith a pean t tter air nother fa orite is the nan eef pen on h a p , ri Sat a p , S n a p $–$$ L D WIFI K

LUCY’S CHINESE FOOD

Several 417-land locations, lucyschinesefood.com. on t iss the ashe hi en o o spe ial that gets yo an entree, a side and fried ri e for an in red i le pri e e li e the s eet and so r hi en here B t if yo d rather eat so ething ega spi y than so ething fried, order the hot hi en t ll ha e yo rea hing for yo r ater glass ith e ery ite o rs ary y lo ation and season $ L D

S P

ARCHITECT COFFEE

1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-771-5030, architectcoffeeco.com. his nstagra hi o ee shop on Springfield s so th side o ers a right and o y at osphere ith ar drin s and hearty food, to oot he rea fast rritos are stellar and so filling e lo e the seasonal drin s that hange e ery so often, espe ially hen they o er so e ersion of a refresh ing espresso toni So good on t s ip the sand i h es or salads for l n h ser ed all night e also lo e this spot e a se it s hopping, and e al ays r n into a friend hen e isit pen on ri , a p Sat , a p $ B L M WIFI

BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR

217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-865-9911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-868-4157; bigmommascoffee.com his spot o ers o ee, espresso and lended frappes B t there is ore on the en than st drin s Be s re to try the s per deli io s sand i hes that are ser ed here, too pen on ri , a p Sat S n , a p $ B L D M WIFI

THE BLACK LAB COFFEE CO.

545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook. com/theblacklabllc 300 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-942-7881, facebook.com/BlackLabDowntown; 3541 S. Lone Pine Ave, Springfield. his as ally anine inspired o ee stop is ep li s pla e to e for a piping hot la ino, and their se ond lo ation in Springfield ser es all the sa e p p inspired en ite s pen on Sat , a p S n , a p $ B L V WIFI

CAFE CUBANO

3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-7777, facebook.com/countrygirlsespresso. side fro all of the deli io s o ee drin s, the real st try ite here is the a thenti an sand i h, ser ed pressed on an read afe ano s signat re is its afe on e he ith s alded il e also lo e the g a a pas try, a h ge treat that osts less than and is filled ith dele ta le, tropi al s eetness pen on Sat , a p $ B L D WIFI K

CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE

1900 W. Sunset St., Springfield, 417-881-7625, classicrockcoffee.com; 535 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-771-5143, classicrockcoffeedowntown.com. his o ee shop o ers espresso drin s ith ro n roll inspired na es ry the S eet otion latte ith ho olate and ara el and a ha and heese p pastry rea fast po et to start yo r day pen on ed , a p h , a p ri , a idnight Sat , a idnight S n , a p $ B L D V M WIFI

THE COFFEE ETHIC

124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-866-6645, thecoffeeethic.com. ry the single origin o ee, re ed one p at a ti e, or any of the reati e and deli io s seasonal drin s he app ino is fantasti , and the shop also ser es ine, raft eers on draft, ottled lattes, and a s all sele tion of li ors pen on Sat , a p $ WIFI

DANCING MULE COFFEE COMPANY

1945 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-5114, dancingmulecoffee.com he o has are great here ho olatey t not too s eet an ing le also does a really good a thenti app ino that s ade st right ry the Pean t B tter andango rappe pen on ri , a p Sat , a p S n , a p $ B WIFI

ECHELON COFFEE

2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-374-2739, echeloncoffee.com. his s nny o ee shop ith a dri e thr has e ellent espresso drin s, drip o ee, po r o er and ore on t iss the delish rea fast and l n h fare too he s oothie o ls are o r fa e pen on ri a p , Sat a p , S n a p B L D WIFI

EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE

445 E. Commercial St., 417-720-1949, culturecstreet. com his o ee roaster ith a ission also ser es so e tasty fare in its lt re afe n addition to aref lly rafted ps of o ee and r ish o ee , there s a eggie aan i h ade ith hi pea ash, arrots and pi led onions it s one of o r fa orite l n hes pen on Sat , a p S n , a p $ B L D M WIFI

GREENHOUSE COFFEE & AFFOGATO BAR

431 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, 417-763-8032. This right and s nny spot has all yo r fa orite lassi espresso drin s, great seasonal options and one of the y iest treats a ariety of a ogatos s ally an a ogato is st espresso and anilla i e rea , t here yo an get other a ors too pen es ri a p , Sat S n a p $ B L D

KINGDOM COFFEE

211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-3501234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf.com. he o ee en feat res lassi espresso drin s and ore e lo e the lassi ortado the ost, and the not too s eet and s per rea y i ed at ha latte is tr ly deli io s f yo an get yo r hands on it, e s re to order a heddar and hi e s one and as the to ar it p pen daily, a p $ B L D WIFI

MUDHOUSE COFFEE

323 South Ave. Suite B, Springfield, 417-832-1720, mudhousecoffee.com. he o ee is al ays fantasti here, at Springfield s do nto n o ee shop Pl s, dho se also o ers a ide ariety of loose leaf teas he ns here are h ge and deli io s a e s re yo try the one ith erries it s o r fa orite pen on Sat , a p S n , a p $ B L D WIFI

THE PRESS COFFEE & JUICE BAR

2710 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-771-5950. his hole foods afe o ers organi dishes ith ingredients fro lo al ar et endors i es are organi and old pressed he real dra here is the e i an orean f sion en , feat ring gogi na hos, i hi fried ri e and street ta os pen on Sat , a p $ B L D WIFI

URBAN GROUNDS COFFEE & PLANT LAB

5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, urbangrounds417.com. This spot spe iali es in drin s ade ith lo ally roasted o ee ry lassi s li e lattes and app inos, or opt for a a ored options li e salted ara el to ee or a otani al latte ade ith things li e eetroot, t r eri and ore hen yo re h ngry, n h on one of the loaded toasts, a gra ing tray, a s oothie o l and ore his o ee shop do les as a plant store and o ti e pen on ri a p , Sat S n a p $ B L

THE WORKSHOP AT FINLEY FARMS

840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com. he en in l des lassi o ee and tea o erings pl s s per si ed s ped p toasts the a o ado toast is f lly loaded and f lly deli io s heir ta e on a ondon og, feat ring p la en der syr p, is deli io s too o an also sign p for hands on or shops and lasses pen on Sat , a p $ B L WIFI

J. PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI

1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-1148, queencitydeli.com. his spot ser es p pasta, so ps, salads and so e s per deli io s sand i hes o an t go rong ith the pastra i sand i h that s in redi ly eaty piled high st li e they do it in e or ity delis pen on Sat , a p $ L D

MYTHICAL ‘WICH

113 E. Main St., Branson, mythicalwich.com. This sand i h shop o es fro the o ners of another Branson fa orite ettin Basted t o ers a large sele tion of old l n h and rea fast sand i hes, li e the oly and renade topped ith pastra i hash and a fried egg pen daily a p $ B L D

THE SANDWICH SCENE

208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-685-9682, thesandwichscene.com. his little spot started o t inside S eet Boy s eigh orhood Bar and has no fo nd a ho e of its o n on aniel Street his spot slings so e serio sly good sa ies pen a p onday Sat rday $ L D

THE SUB SHOP

1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-887-3804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8077. The ighter Pilot sand i h o es f lly loaded ith sala i, pepperoni, heese, anana peppers, lett e and s sa e it an on the ay there, e a se he S Shop is ash only Se inole Street lo ation open on ri , a p est aniel Street lo ation open on ri , a p $ L

SS S S S

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD

Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com. on t iss the rotating seasonal toppings o r sta ers lo e the ey li e pie and la erry in the s er, and the apple pie and p p in pie in the fall ry the ar s rtle s ndae, a lassi on o tion ith ara el, hot f dge and toasty pe ans pen S n h , a p ri Sat , a idnight $

BOX TURTLE CREAMERY

1458 E. Cherry St., Springfield. ro ani nnell, the o ner of Sleepy poss afe, this te little rea ery in the o ntree neigh orhood ser es hand ade s oops in a ors ranging fro fa iliar to ad ent ro s e lo ed the le on ran erry and the anana hon ey o i e rea s the ost so far n on s t has a al p indo pen p $

EUROPEAN CAFÉ

207 Park Central East, Springfield, 417-569-6702, 417europeancafe.com. long ith o ee drin s, this little a ery ser es p lo ely roissants, ea tif l desserts, perfe t pastries and ore o an e en find so e sa ory pastries, li e the a on, egg and goat heese tart heir a arons are to die for, and the pretty little o sse a es are al ost too lo ely to eat e lo e the i he here as ell pen on h rs , a p ri , a p Sat , a p S n , a p $ WIFI

HURTS DONUT

Several locations; see wannahurts.com tside the o toppings o er these s per deli io s do ghn ts, and they are a aila le ho rs a day in do nto n Springfield sto er fa orite is the aple a on ar, a salty s eet on o tion that is delish B t it s not st don ts pen ho rs $ B L D WIFI

PRAIRIE PIE

307 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com. Prairie Pie a es stellar all tter r st pies in a ors that range fro lassi to in enti e ny of o ner leanor aylor s pies ade ith rh ar so e ith herry, so e ith stra erry are s per Stop y the store front for other o erings as ell, s h as sa ory pot pies pen h rs S n a p $–$$ L 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. ots of l s io s do ghn ts are ade fresh daily here e lo e the gla ed l e erry and the oh so fresh ho olate a e don ts pen daily, a p ational en e lo ation losed S nday ar lo ation losed onday $ B

S S SP S

BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND

1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291. Billy Bo s is a greasy spoon instit tion that has long ser ed deli io s s eets and tasty eri an food on the strip in Branson here are a ors of fried pies here, heese rgers pro tip top the ith grilled onions , foot long hot dogs ith hili and heese and ore pen daily, a p $ L D

CASPER’S

937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield. his lo al fa orite is getting settled into a ne lo ation on lenstone en e that s filled ith right olors and a its hy i e that s oth asper s fa iliar and also rand ne he spot ser es o er o ing o ls of great hili and a fe other y y diner options li e rgers and hot dogs on t forget to order so e l s io s hili heese fries hile yo re there pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p $ B L D K

DRUFF’S

331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-719-1719, yumdruffs.com. r s o ers a en of grilled hees es, so ps and reati e sides or a little heat, try the ood o tor, ade ith heddar, rea heese, a on and alape o, or satisfy yo r s eet tooth ith a n tella and stra erry grilled sando it s n ts r s also o ers a ro st r n h and rea fast en pen e ed , a p h Sat , a p S n , a p $ L D

RED’S GIANT HAMBURG

2301 W. Sunshine St., Springfield. his diner ser es p as h nostalgia as it does lassi rgers pt for the sta ed high griddle rgers ser ed ith fries or onion rings, sl rp on a alt or il sha e, or try o t so e of the ne er gl ten free options he o t the rea fast en if yo re p early pen daily, a p $ B L D K

INDIAN

INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL

2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill.com. Come to this y y little spot on the Branson strip to ind lge in so e tasty ndian fare e lo ed the arahi la tender la , ell peppers and onion in a spi y sa e and the shroo aloo atar shroo s, potatoes and peas s i ing in a rea y sa e Stop y for l n h on ridays and Sat rdays to ta e ad antage of the tasty et pen daily, a p , p $$ L D

NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR

3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050. ind all yo r fa orite lassi ndian dishes here the tandoori hi en and the a hni paneer are oth e ellent along ith so e others yo ight not ha e seen aro nd to n efore or e a ple, the gol gappay is a rispy little hollo fried all filled ith hi peas, potato, onion and spi es e lo e the ras alai des sert ho e ade heese in a s eet arda o inf sed sa e pen eds on a p h Sat p S n , on , eds p $$ L D

TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT

1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573. o an find all yo r ndian fa orites here on the large en here is a ariety of naan read and it s so, so soft and perfe t , any types of rry and ri e dishes and f n desserts li e ri e p dding and g la a n don ts soa ed in syr p e are o sessed ith the la rogan osh and the hi en alfre i, and the hin di asala an o ra dish is a fa orite too Be s re to try their l n h o os, hi h are a steal and al ays taste so good pen for l n h and dinner daily $$ L D

ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE

311 S. Jefferson Ave., Springfield, 417-351-4400, zaykaspringfield.com. here s a lot to lo e a o t this do nto n Springfield ndian resta rant he ege ta le or a, hi en ti a asala and alai ofta are st a fe of o r fa orite dishes f yo re ne to ndian food, try the pre set o o eals that feat re a lot of di erent a ors or dessert, yo an t eat a o l of ar g la a n s eet pastry alls he l n h et is also iller hen it s open pen e S n , a p open for dinner e h , p ri Sat , p S n , p $ $$ L D

M AVANZARE, please see listing p.102

BAMBINO’S CAFÉ

1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417-862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-4442; bambinoscafe.com. his little talian eatery ser es hearty helpings of tasty talian fare that on t rea the an , a aila le at t o land lo ations he Poppa is a pop lar pasta dish t o es ith penne pasta, talian sa sage, shroo s and a spi y to ato rea sa e he el ar lo ation is great for a eal alfres o pen on Sat , a p S n , noon p $ L D

BASILICO ITALIAN CAFE

306 Commercial St., Springfield, 417-873-9224, basilicoitaliancafe.com. on t iss the deli io s tor tellini ar onara here, or the penne pesto rea ith hi en a drea y o o of alfredo and pesto sa es he lo ster and shri p ra ioli in spin a h shroo sa e is a nother delight get it ith the freshly ade read he talian rea a e is a great option for dessert, and so is the arrot a e n fa t, e e heard it s so e of the est arrot a e aro nd pen p eds , a p h rs Sat , a p S n $$ L D WIFI K

BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT, see p. 102

GILARDI’S, please see listing p. 103

THE HILL

600 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-920-8850, thehilldining.com. o e h ngry to he ill, hef ngel i s all yo an eat destination o ering a ide ariety of talian fare in a fine dining at o sphere ill p on plenty of pastas, ri o en pi as, so ps, salads, repes and spe ialty desserts at sta tions dedi ated to those and other o th atering ite s pen for l n h on ri , a p pen for dinner on h , p ri , p Sat , p S n , p Br n h ser ed Sat S n , a p $ $$ LD M WIFI ☎

NICOLA’S RISTORANTE, see listing p. 104

NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ

306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-831-1222, nonnascafe.net. Italian. he seafood lasagna is a st try dish, and the spi y arra iata lasagna is ra y good nd then there s that drool orthy deep fried lasa gna Basi ally, if the dish has lasagna in its na e, yo no it ll e good at onna s he s an pap pardelle rag is e ellent, and the pesto ling ini is a delight or dessert, e parti larly lo e the dele ta le ho olate torte and the ri h and deli io s tira is Pl s, the ho e ade heese a es are al ays top not h onna s also does a S nday r n h fro 11 a.m.– p pen S n h , a p ri Sat , a p $$ L D K M ☎

PICCOLO

107 West Aldersgate Drive, Suites 1 and 2, Nixa, 417374-7291, eatpiccolo.com. hen yo re ra ing in d lgent talian fare, Pi olo deli ers ith a range of piled high pastas, pi as, stea and hi en entrees Start things o ith the talian a hos fried onton hips, ho e ade alfredo sa e and toppings , or the Bal oa alls, i y eat alls st ed ith o arella and finished ith goat heese and arinara pen e h , p ri , p Sat , a p S n , a p $–$$ L D WIFI ☎ M

SALVATORES FRESH RISTORANTE ITALIANO

1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com. he en here is pa ed ith hand ade pastas that are freshly rafted e ery day f yo re l y, yo ight e en at h a gli pse of the a ing the fresh pasta yo an see it fro the dining roo he en also oasts e erything fro a fried arti ho es appeti er to a s an one stea entree Pl s there are rgers, pi as and sand i hes too pen e Sat , a p S n , a p $–$$ L D

P S

ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA, please see p. 102

CRAFT SUSHI

251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417-3195887, facebook.com/craftsushi. t raft S shi, yo re in ontrol of yo r eal as yo sto i e yo r o n s shi and po e o ls nd the est part t on t rea the an ry a salad o l topped ith arinat ed tof , asparag s, shroo s, alapenos, eda a e and spi y asa i sa e t s o r fa orite nything ith the ra sal on or the spi y por is al ays a hit as ell, and there are a ton of topping and eggie options here s a en of so e pre designed po e o ls and s shi rolls too pen on Sat , a p $$ L D

HARUNO, please see listing p. 102

HINODE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777. o e to see the sho at the hi a hi grills inode is no n for onderf l hi a hi eals ith perfe tly oo ed proteins and all the e tras ri e, stir fry noo dles, eggies and that l s io s seafood sa e nd don t forget to try so ething fro the s shi en pen daily, a p S n h , p ri Sat , p $$ L D K M ☎

KAI, please see listing p. 103

KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL 640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225. ith arai, o ner o ng n, of ar no, ai and oriya, ta es ra en serio sly, and it sho s in her food he arai a en ith a a orf l and spi y ho se ade roth is in redi le, and e li e to get it ith por and a seasoned soft oiled egg added or so e thing lighter, the na ed ra en ith sesa e noodles, spina h, ood ear shroo s, ean spro ts, sea eed and sprin led ith li e is a highlight on t iss the tasty hand rolls or the stea ed ns filled ith shredded por , spring onions and teriya i sa e pen on ri , a p on h , p Sat a p ri Sat , p $ L D

NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE

2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-881-7171, nakato.com. Perfor an e style hi a hi dining is hat a ato is no n for nd they are s per good at it little entertain ent pl s a great eal ll of the s shi is top not h here as ell on t iss the enny oll, a fa orite or an appeti er, try the a on rapped s allops, the agedashi tof or the deli io s seafood te p ra pen on ri , p Sat , p S n , a p , p $$ LD K M ☎

NIJI SUSHI

3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417851-1707. n addition to a large ariety of s shi rolls e lo e the herry Blosso oll and the Spi y y oll , this en also oasts rain o right o tails and se en types of ra en so ps o e ith friends so yo an share and sa ple lots of rolls or dessert, try the y apanese heese a e pen S n h , a p ri Sat , a p

$$ L D

SAKURA

3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000. here s a solid s shi en the Sa s oll ne er disappoints if yo li e a roll ith a lot going on , and yo an order a s shi don ri o to really get so e ang for yo r if yo prefer to eep yo r s shi eals si ple and refreshing he ento o es are great too pen e S n , a p $$ LD WIFI M ☎

SUSHI VILLAGE

1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-890-1016, facebook.com/springfieldsushivillage. his o y s shi spot has a ar date night at osphere ith herry losso s and plants aro nd e ery orner pen on h , a p , p ri , a p , p Sat , a p $$ LD WIFI

GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT

1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093 he eef lgogi and dolsot i i ap are est sellers here e also lo e the fried d plings and i op o also get a ariety of orean side dishes alongside yo r eal, hi h adds a lot of f n and a or to the eal pen ed on , a p $ LD WIFI ☎

KORIYA

4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077. his spot ser es reate yo r o n i i ap dishes ne of o r fa orite dishes is the ap hae, ade ith slippery and s eet stir fried potato star h noodles and lots of eggies it s f n to eat and so satisfying pen on Sat , a p $ LD

THAT LEBANESE PLACE

338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677. he i eh is fantasti if yo li e her a eo s and satisfying eats, and any of the deli io s and eaty e a s is a great hoi e e lo e the st ed grape lea es appeti er, ser ed ith a deli io s tahini dip ping sa e he falafel sha al sand i h is great too, ith falafel, a a ghano , ren h fries, fresh eggies, pi led t rnips and tahini here are plenty of options for diners ith egetarian, egan or gl ten free diets pen e Sat , a p $ $$ LD

VASKEN’S DELI

BAWI KOREAN BBQ

4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-886-2777, bawikbbq.com. Ba i orean BB rings an a then ti orean dining e perien e to Springfield, here yo ll pay a at fee of for an all yo an eat eal o oo the eat yo rself on ta letop grills eep an eye o t for orean style fried hi en, so eti es o ered on spe ial pen on h , p ri Sat, p S n , p $$ D

GREEK BELLY

320 E. Walnut St., 417-597-3382, greekbelly.com. e lo e e erything e e tasted here ry a tasty por or hi en gyro topped ith rea y t at i i, to atoes, onions and ren h fries on a soft pita r fa orite, tho gh, is the lo ani o rap t s an orange spi ed por sa sage ser ed in a pita ith spi y feta dip, fresh eggies and ren h fries pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p Br n h ser ed the se ond S nday of ea h onth, a p $ L D ☎ WIFI K

3200 Gretna Road, Suite D, Branson, 417-334-9182, vaskensdeli.com. he gyros are fantasti here a e s re yo get the ith traditional gyro eat, and don t s ip the t at i i sa e erything s etter ith t at i i sa e, right e are n ts for the eef sha er a too, tho gh pen on Sat , a p S n , a p tended s er ho rs $ L D WIFI K

MEXICAN

CABOS BONITOS GRILL & CANTINA

406 South Ave., Springfield, 417-221-3490. Come to this do nto n Springfield spot for all yo r e i an fa orites pl s so e f n and ni e dishes li e the fried a o ado appeti er t has eer attered a

It’s time to dive into summer fun! Enter to win over $2,400 in prizes including spa treatments, overnight accommodations, attractions tickets and more!

o ado hal es filled ith yo r hoi e of eat and topped ith so r rea and hipotle ran h sa e pen S n a p , on h a p , ri Sat a p $$ LD

CANTINA LAREDO

1001 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson,417-3346052, cantinalaredo.com. antina aredo is a great option if yo re e ploring Branson and ha e a han ering for e i an food o ated on Branson anding, it has a great ie of the horeographed fo ntain and of a e aney o o and the l s a ross the ater he en is aries, and e espe ially lo e the salsas pen S n h , a p ri Sat , a p $$ LD

CASA BELLA MEXICAN CUISINE

4610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-771-5031; 300 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-885-9097. he en is h ge at asa Bella, hi h has t o Springfield lo ations ry the tasty e i he, any of the street ta os, or the spi y a arones a la dia la he Battlefield resta rant lo ation is h ge too, so there s plenty of roo to ring yo r hole re for so e e i an eats pen S n a p , on h a p , ri Sat a p $$ LD

CATRINA’S MODERN MEXICAN

2925 Battlefield Road, Suite 105, Springfield, 417350-1006, catrinascantina.com. his spot ser es a thenti sharea le dishes and f ll entrees oo

for hand r shed g a a ole that an e loaded p ith hi harron he grilled plaintains are a treat So e of o r fa orite entrees are the sopes topped ith shredded eef, the spi y atan shri p and the atrina esadilla he o tail en is e el lent here too pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p , S n , noon p $$ LD

CESAR’S OLD MEXICO

2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-881-8252. nd lge in a thenti e i an food at in redi ly reasona le pri es e lo e the irria ta o, hi h is filled ith s lent shredded eef on t iss the Sal adorian p p sas st ed ith eans and heese they are delightf l he arnitas torta is also e ellent t s h ge and is st ed ith sa ory arni tas, topped ith elted heese, to atoes, lett e and ayo and then sand i hed et een a pillo y n eed e say ore pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p $ LD

EL PARAISO MEXICAN KITCHEN

610 W. College St., Springfield, 417-771-5641; 305 E. Chestnut St., Suite C, Strafford, 417-736-0019; elparaisokitchen.com. his Stra ord ased e i an resta rant no has an o tpost in o nto n Springfield too hey are no n for a great line p of argaritas and all yo r fa orite e i an dishes or an app, try the a ing heese or the e i he or an entree, try the pi a a la parrilla a fresh pineapple o l filled ith grilled hi en, stea , shri p, s al

Brunch Sat and Sun: 9am–2pm

Dinner Mon–Sat: 5pm–10pm Sunday: 5pm–9pm

Breakfast Mon–Fri: 7am–10am

Feast on the freshest flavors in the Ozarks at The Order. Our seasonal menu features a modern take on Missouri cuisine showcasing locally sourced ingredients and crafted cocktails. Be sure to plan ahead for complimentary valet with dinner reservations.

305 E. Walnut St., Springfield 417-851-5299 | theordersgf.com

lops, eggies and ore Springfield open on h a p , ri Sat a idnight, S n a p Stra ord open on h a p , ri Sat a p , S n a p $$ LD

IGUANA ROJA

107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO-13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net. There are deli io s argaritas at this little eatery lo ated on the s are in ar on t iss the one ade ith alape os it has a i that s so h f n to drin he hips are e ellent here, ith a y y season ing sprin led on top of e ery one pen e h , a p ri Sat , a p $–$$ L D K

LA PALOMA

3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7194484, dienlapaloma.com; 1425 W. Battlefield St., Springfield, 417-889-2985, thelapaloma.com. This spot o ers a h ge range of e i an dishes in l ding fish ta os, hi h are e ellent Battered and fried fish is topped ith fresh pi de gallo, a age and a rea y hipotle sa e and then ser ed ith e i an hite ri e pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p S n , a p $–$$ L D

MEXICAN VILLA

Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net. This spot is a fa orite a ong longti e Springfield lo als,

Hours 5–9pm: Tuesday–Thursday 5–10pm: Friday

Hours vary: Saturday 3–7pm: Sunday Closed: Monday Happy hours every day!

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

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

and it is no n for its s eet sa e ser ed ith tor tilla hips lso pop lar is the San ho n hilada Style a h ge rrito that is o pletely s i ing in red en hilada sa e ids lo e the hi en fin gers, and yo an e en p r hase the s eet salsa in a ar to go o rs ary y lo ation $ L D K

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. iners lo e the pollo a o ado, an o n e hi en reast that s grilled and topped ith ho e ade hori o, hite eso and to atoes ry the asada ta os three soft orn tortillas filled ith stea , ilantro and onions and ser ed ith ri e, eans and a o ado pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p S n , a p $–$$ L D WIFI K M ☎

PURPLE BURRITO

1700 S. Campbell Ave., Suite A, Springfield, 417-8636688. e lo e the street style ta os he pastor ta o ith onions and ilantro is great nd the fish ta os are so e of o r fa orite fish ta os any here dinner fa orite is the arne asada rrito or so ething a little di erent and a lot ind lgent, try the s per heesy hili relleno rrito pen on Sat a p , S n a p $ B L D

WIFI K M

SEÑOR JULIAN MEXICAN BAR & GRILL

3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417240-2120. his tiny resta rant pa s ig a ors, ith a en that feat res traditional e i an so ps, hand ade to order o r tortillas, esa ir ria ta os, assi e esadillas, fa ita a ed potatoes and ore he ta os espe iales are a fa orite, filled ith arne asada, ilantro, onions, eso fres o and a o ado f yo li e po ole, o e on the ee ends hen they ser e that and en do pen on a p , eds h a p , ri Sat a p , S n a p $–$$ L D K

TEAM TACO

1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf.com. et the little r y red ilding near Pi i en e and herry Street e yo r g iding ea on to a or pa ed ta os, na hos and ri e o ls his tiny afe ser es a or a ors in its ta o en e re fans of the lo etrotter por elly ta o, and e al ays ha e to taste test the inger, the shop s rotating spe ial ta o e also lo e the te ila and e al ased o tails that pair so ell ith all those tasty ta os ith their ig a ors pen on S n , a p $ L D

TINGA TACOS

308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-831-8007, tingatacossgf.com. his do nto n ta o shop is open late slinging shells of its ildly reati e o inations e are partial to the ade ith s per a orf l arinated tof or the r ity Piggles ith i y por and fig a for a salty s eet o ination pen e ed , a p h Sat , a a $ L D

TORTILLERIA PERCHES

1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-864-8195. his tiny little a thenti e i an resta rant a es

its o n tortillas and hips fresh e ery day ry a e i an soda, a traditional e i an so p or a ta ale hen yo isit on t iss a o esdays and a ale h rsdays, here the dishes are only a dollar pen e ri , a p Sat , a p S n , a p $ BL D

PIZZA

ARRIS’ PIZZA

1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-7260, arrispizzaonline.com. hin r st pi as ha e a ree air at rris Pi a Be s re to order the thena a pi a ade ith feta, pepperoni, oli es, sh roo s and green peppers if yo ant to try one that rsts ith a or he r s hetta is a great appeti er, and it s nli e r s hetta e e had other pla es pen e h , a p ri Sat , a p S n , a p , p $–$$ L D M

THE BIG SLICE

1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com. o an get ig e or style ri o en pi a y the sli e here r y a hole pie if yo prefer, t either ay a e s re to try to the hi en a on ran h pi a e lo e the rea y spina h pi a too, hen e re in the ood for a hite pie he giganti pepperonis are a on derf l topping too hey are the sa e pepperonis sed in the addi ti ely good pepperoni pin heels pen daily, a p $–$$ L D

GARBO’S PIZZERIA

2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-883-9010, garbospizzeria.com f yo lo e a loaded St o is style pi a, try the top pings pa ed randiose r try the Ba arian pi a for so ething a little di erent it is topped ith anadian a on and sa er ra t sto ers are ig fans of the ar o s ho se salad and its tasty ho e ade dressing pen ed , h , S n a p ri Sat a p $–$$ L D M

MASO PIZZA BAR

3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1047 aso Pi a Bar is o ned y i ola ilardi and lo at ed st a fe door do n fro his other resta rant, i ola s istorante nd st li e at i ola s, e ery thing on the en is delish e an t ait to try op tions li e the i ise and Shine, talian Stallion and egetarian friendly oni a ealthy pies he en also spans salads, panini, pasta, so ps and ore pen on Sat , p lose $$ D WIFI

MCSALTY’S PIZZA CAFÉ

1550 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-4324. ainstay in Springfield, Salty s ser es deli io s pi a and has een part of the Springfield lands ape fore er he Bear Pie is a tasty s pre e that s loaded p ith lots of toppings here are also s sand i hes pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p $ L D WIFI M ☎

MR. G’S CHICAGO PIZZA

202 N. Commercial St., Branson, 417-335-8156, mrgschicagopizza.com. here s a lot to li e a o t

this Branson pi a oint a fa ily friendly at o sphere, hearty talian food and e ellent hi ago style pi a hey a e all of the pi a do gh fro s rat h or a hearty taste, dig in to the s pre e pi a, ith ho e ade sa sage, pepperoni and lots of eggies pen on h rs , a p ri Sat , a p $$ L D WIFI

PAPPO’S PIZZERIA

221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-1111; 900 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-306-9091; pappospizzeria.com. ry the spi y hi en hol la pie topped ith a i t re of red sa e and oli e oil, grilled hi en arinated in hol la sa e, garli , o arella heese, red onions, ilantro lso, e s re yo try the eat alls e really li e the sal ads here as ell pen on ed , a p h Sat , a a S n , a p $–$$

L D

THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB

2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-368-0277. ith a en f ll of pi a, pastas, salads, sand i hes and p fare and a iller eer sele tion, there s so ething to please e eryone e lo e to ild o r o n pi a ith alfredo sa e and a ton of shroo s Be s re to order the r ssels spro ts appeti er they are ash fried and rispy, ser ed ith rispy potatoes, lardons, goat heese and a alsa i red tion dri le ry the arrot a e for dessert esta rant open on Sat , a p S n , a p p open later $ $ L D

M WIFI K

PIZANO’S PIZZA

106 E. Jackson St., Willard, 417-742-5115, pizanoandsauce.com. o an get a little it of e or p in illard at this pi eria his spot ser es e or style pi a in addition to al ones, s sand i hes and pasta o gh is ade fresh daily, and there s e en a gl ten free option e ri , a p Sat , p $–$$ L D

PIZZA HOUSE

312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-881-4073 his resta rant has een a tradition in Springfield for ore than years, and the pi a they ser e is s per thin and t into s per tiny pie es t s a lassi that s not to e issed and is a fa orite of lifelong lo als r fa orite thing there any pi a that in l des a on pen e h , a p ri Sat , a p $ L D WIFI

ROCCO’S PIZZA & SUBS

Multiple 417-land locations; roccospizzaandsubs. com. his talian eatery spe iali es in e or style pi a that has any ody ho s een to the east oast s ooning t s legit lso on the en are hot s s, li e eat all or eggplant Par esan, pl s sal ads, al ones and a handf l of pasta entrees $–$$

L D

P BS, S B S

ANDY B’S TIKI BAR

433 Promenade Way, Branson, 417-213-8631, bransontikibar.com. Big ne s for lo ers of island style e s and as al hango t spots ndy B s i i Bar

has opened on Branson anding, and it s an e ten sion of Springfield s ndy B s Bo l So ial ndy B s i i Bar has a ie of a e aney o o, here g ests an order ti i drin s, eer and other drin s e re eying the Pin iller, the ar s ta e on a pain iller pen on Sat noon p , S n a p $

THE CELLAR

507 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-351-2824, thecellar.springfieldbrewingco.com reated y the tea ehind Springfield Bre ing o pany and lo ated st aro nd the orner fro it , he ellar is a as al setting for s all ites and reati e o tails n h on pop orn garnished ith fresh Par esan and ho se ade porto ello er y hile yo sip on a raft o tail and en oy a rotation of li e si pen eds S n p $ D

CELLAR+PLATE

2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-368-1739, cellarandplate.wine. t ellar Plate yo an get e eptional ine and tasty food in a o forta le and in iting at osphere sto ers lo e the stea edallions and the seafood ra ioli on t iss the ellar Board ith eats, heeses and fr its nd as yo an pro a ly g ess fro the na e, ellar Plate has a great ine en pen es eds p , h rs Sat p $$ D

CLEAR LOUNGE

At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433. st a ross the street fro Branson anding at the ilton Branson on ention enter is lear o nge, a great pla e to gra a o tail ith friends his spot is ho e to tasty food, good si and f n drin s o rs ary open p at press ti e D

COYOTE’S ADOBE CAFÉ & BAR

1742 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-889-7120; 807 N. Main St., Nixa, 417-725-6803, coyotes4wings. com. his spot is no n for its a ors of hi en ings, fro o on alo to ne pe ted tan doori spi e here are also tons of apps, sa ies and entrees pen on h , a idnight, it hen ntil p ri , a a , it hen ntil p Sat , a a , it hen ntil p S n , a p , it hen ntil p $ B L D WIFI K

ERNIE BIGG’S DUELING PIANO BAR

505 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-239-3670, erniebiggs.com his piano ar ser es p ore than great t nes he Branson anding lo ation has a s all t y y en of go r et p gr filled ith apps, sand i hes and pi a Pi as are thin r st and pop lar pen on Sat , p a S n , p idnight D WIFI M

GALLOWAY STATION

1281 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-9730. e lo e the a n a n rger it s ig, hearty and al ays deli io s Pl s, e an t get eno gh of the fries and freshly ade potato hip rder the ith a side of the spi y ran h dressing for dipping he hi en raps are another longti e sto er fa orite at allo ay Station, and there s a reason for it t s a lassi it hen open on h , a p ri Sat , a p $ L D K

HARRY’S COCKTAIL LOUNGE & BAR

at Big Cedar Lodge, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-339-5200, bigcedar.com/dining. his hi o tail spot is lo ated do nstairs at the or an o se on the Big edar odge property t s a great pla e to stop y for a drin they ha e e ellent o tails and a great ine and his ey sele tion , and they also o er a rotating en of s all plates and appeti ers e lo ed the short ri sliders and the stra erry inf sed Paper Plane o tail esday h rsday p , riday and Sat rday p $–$$ L D K

THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB

137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-425-5162, thegoldengirl.com. his r ar on the so th est orner of Par entral S are ith a great peo ple at hing patio spa e ser es p hand rafted o tails and a ade fro s rat h, e le ti , inter nationally inspired en ry the hai sti y ings for an n s al t ist on a ar staple Be s re to try the ta os, ra en and artisan pi as he pi a spe ials al ays o e topped ith reati e ingredients for a serio lsy deli io s and sharea le pie s for drin s, e erything on the en is relia le ell do ne r fa orite r a a a a, hi h is oth fr ity and spi y pen e Sat , p a $ L D WIFI

LINDBERG’S TAVERN

318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-868-8900, lindbergsbar.com. orget a o t asi ar food his storied atering hole goes a o e and eyond ith reati e ta es on hearty o fort food lassi s he rgers are deli io s, t honestly e erything e e tried has een i pressi e he spe ials are al ays ea tif lly reati e, and the S nday r n h is one of the est aro nd pen e Sat , a a S n , p idnight $ L D M WIFI

OUTBACK PUB

1924 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-7003, outbackbranson.com. his stralian inspired spot lo ated along the strip in Branson oasts t o ars, an o tdoor party de and e tensi e eer list here is li e si ost e enings hat sho ld yo order to eat e re o end yo try the orn eal read ed atfish pen on Sat , a a S n , a idnight $ L D WIFI V

THE ROYAL

1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, 417-3513029, theroyalmusichall.com. his tiny and ea tif l spot ser es ell rafted o tails, ottled o tails and finger foods li e ar oli es or rose ary and itters gla ed n ts Be s re to isit hen there is li e si the inti ate setting a es for a great e perien e pen es h rs p ri Sat p idnight $

SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY

305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-832-8277, springfieldbrewingco.com. ry the fish and hips paired ith the eers that are re ed on site lso deli io s are the rgers and the a and heese i e si e S n it hen open S n , a p on ri , a p Sat , a p ar lose daily at p $$ B

L D WIFI

K M V

SWEET BOY’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

310 South Ave., Springfield, 417-719-4224, sweetboysbar.com. o e for pin all, a laid a at o sphere and a s all t ery ell done o tail list or so ething ore li e dessert, try the ellBoy, a fro en rish o ee ith a at Boy s i e rea sand i h pen eds Sat p lose S n noon lose $

VINO CELLARS WINE SHOP & LOUNGE

2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-773-1985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417773-1985, vcellars.com. S all plates, sna s and tapas a e p the en at this o forta le spot Springfield open on h , a p or later ri Sat , a p or later Branson est open e h , a p or later ri Sat , a p or later $ L D WIFI

W.F. CODY’S

3138 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-8083. The heese rgers are a spe ialty at this resta rant, and they are enor o s on t iss the ha and heese sand i hes, another sto er fa orite pen on Sat , a a S n , a idnight it hen open on h , a p ri Sat , a p S n , a p $ L D WIFI

K M S S

CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL, please see listing p. 102

ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT

Call for directions to the ranch in Rockbridge; 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com. his fishing lodge is ho e to a resta rant that spe iali es in all things tro t he s per fresh fish dishes are ade ith tro t that are a ght on the property e lo e the trio appeti er, hi h o es ith tro t salad, s o ed tro t and a tro t dip that is so ra ea le or an entree, try the la ened tro t dish here s also an on site ar, he rist ill lo ated in a histori for er ri erside ill pen daily a p $ BL D WIFI K M ☎

VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY

260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-851-1768; rooftopvantage.com. his rooftop ar at otel andi ort has a reathta ing ie of do nto n Springfield and e en o ers dining igloos in the inter so yo an en oy the s ene all year long he o tails are refreshingly reati e and lassi ally ell done, and the en of sharea les and sna s ring the on ept of ar food p se eral not hes ith ite s li e the por rillette tartine a e s re yo try so e thing fro the s per fresh, ea tif lly prepared ra ar he pi led shri p and s allop e i he are t o of o r fa es pen es eds p id night, h rs Sat p a $$

WHITE RIVER FISH HOUSE

5 Bass Pro Drive, Branson, 417-243-5100, whiteriverfishhouse.com. he fresh ater fish is great, espe ially the al ond r sted tro t or orn eal fried atfish ry the salt and pepper ala ari for an

appeti er, or dig into the seasonal s o ed fish dip o an also find non fish dishes li e rgers, fried hi en an ar e e ri s on the en too pen on Sat , a p S n , a p $$

L D K M

S

CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR, please see listing p. 136

FLAMESTEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 102

JIMM’SSTEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 103

LEVEL2STEAKHOUSE, please see listing p. 103

OUTBACK STEAK & OYSTER BAR

1914 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-6306, outbackbranson.com. here are plenty of stando t dishes at this stralian the ed stea ho se and oyster ar t a ser es hand t, aged stea s sing ertified ereford Beef raised lo ally pen daily at a losing ti e aries seasonally $$

L D WIFI K

RED OAK STEAKHOUSE

Downstream Casino Resort, 69300 E. Nee Road, Quapaw, Oklahoma, 1-888-396-7876, downstreamcasino.com. ry aged pri e stea s are ser ed in this resta rant s fine dining at osphere he sides are deli io s too, ith options li e garli potato p ree and tr e rea ed orn Be s re to try the har terie oard ith all the s al goodies pl s so e ho se ade a fter yo r stea ho se din ner, hop o er to the asino for so e ga ing f n pen S n h , p ri Sat , p $$ D ☎

RERICO BRAZILIAN GRILL

3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-881-8882, rericogrill.com. re yo a h ge fan of all things eaty ry inds of eat for dinner, all sli ed ta leside inner o es ith eef so p, soft rolls and nli ited trips to the old ar ith things li e fresh heese, pasta salads and ore pen daily at a losing ti e aries seasonally $ L D WIFI K M ☎

SALTGRASS STEAKHOUSE

801 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-3340325, saltgrass.com his spot ser es lassi stea ho se fare, t ith a it of a So th est o oy t ist ry the enter t filet topped ith sa t ed shroo s, or the loaded heese fries appeti er f yo re in the ood for so thern o fort food, they also ha e o ntry fried stea t s on Branson anding, so yo an al o yo r dinner y shop ping pen S n h a p , ri Sat a p $$–$$$ LD ☎

WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE

1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com o e to oplin s ilder s Stea ho se to find stea s in all si es and arieties, all of hi h are ertified la ng s eef and free of hor ones

and anti ioti s he resta rant s en also has a ariety of other ite s li e seafood and hi en pen on h , p ri Sat , p $$$ D ☎ S

BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM

1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8665533, bethsbakeshoppe.com. ry a hi en salad sand i h ser ed on inna on raisin read nd e lo e the spina h salad ser ed ith ar a on inaigrette, and the giganti o s o s salad loaded ith fresh eggies and eta ea roo is open on Sat , a p a ery open a p $ L K M

MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM AND VINTAGE SUITCASE

211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-886-7000, robinsvintagesuitcase.com. he daily spe ials and desserts are the star of this tearoo and pastry shop on o er ial Street here is al ays a i he and so p of the day, pl s great desserts pen on ri , a p Sat , a p Ba ery is open on ri , a p Sat , a p $ L WIFI M

SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM

107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331. The home ade desserts are to die for Be s re to order the i ly efore they r n o t li e yo ight ant to order the efore yo order entrees on t iss the eggie sand i h, the stra erry so p or the hi en salad pen e Sat , a p $ L K

THAI

RAMA THAI CAFÉ

1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-3204. This resta rant, lo ated inside a har ing old ho se on istori aln t Street, feat res a en f ll of deli io s hai tastes in a o y at osphere ith a shady patio o t a Start yo r eal ith the a o ado spring rolls pen on h , a p , p ri Sat , a p , p S n , noon p , p $–$$ LD K

THAI THAI CUISINE

1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com. hai hai isine o ers really great hai food and a s eet sta he panang r ry is deli io s, and it s ser ed on a ed of spina h pen on Sat , a p , p S n a p , p $–$$ LD K

THAI EXPRESS

2113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-865-0101, 417thaiexpress.com. hen yo isit this friendly spot, don t iss the agi oodle, ango rry hi en and ol ano shri p dishes hey are all tasty he green rry is deli io s pen on h , a p ri , a p Sat , a p $ LD

THAILAND STATION

1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-350-1001, thailandstation.net. ind all yo r fa orites a ari ety of rries, stir fried noodle dishes and so ps pl s so e s rprises li e rispy d and stir fried por elly e re s per e ited a o t the salad op tions, li e the so t papaya salad and the laa gro nd hi en salad hen it s in season, order the ango sti y ri e dessert pen on Sat , a p $ LD

TONG’S THAI RESTAURANT

3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-889-5280. his spot ser es p a en pa ed ith tasty hai a ors, and the sarn lett e raps are a longti e sto er fa orite he fried asa ith yo r hoi e of one of ong s y y sa es is another fan fa e e li e to order it topped ith asil sa e on t forget a o t the hairito, a dish that s ni e to ong s ll ar pen on ri , a p on Sat , p $–$$ LD WIFI ☎

THE WHEELHOUSE

1845 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-430-0400, wheelhousefood.com. he pineapple fried ri e is a fan fa orite at this hai e i an f sion spot, t yo really an t go rong ith anything on the en e al ays go for the i hi falafel ta os hey are rsting ith great tastes and pa so e serio sly spi y heat than s to the ho e ade i hi pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p S n, a p $ B LD V S

BAMBU

1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-9881. he pho is a spe ialty here o an add spi e, her s, alape os and spro ts to sto i e it r fa or ite se all of the her s, a o ple of alape os and a s irt of Srira ha on t iss the refreshing n o ls too he one ade ith le ongrass eef is a a or o he pineapple hi en stir fry entree is another sto er fa orite pen on h , a p ri Sat , a p S n , a p $ LD WIFI K ☎

PHO KIM

3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-883-9999, phokimspringfield.com. ere yo an fill p on ietna ese staples li e pho, spring rolls, a ariety of ahn i sand i hes and ore he hi en fried ri e is e tra rispy, and the hi en pho is st as tasty as the lassi eef ariety here e lo e the fresh spring rolls too and an t resist starting a eal ith a o ple of the f yo aren t afraid of heat, try the spi y eef noodle so p pen on and ed Sat , a p S n , a p $ L D WIFI

PHO SAIGON

2640 E. 32nd St., Joplin, 417-627-9966. Come to this spot to ind lge in fresh spring rolls, er a elli noodles, and ig helpings of pho ith lots of fresh eggies on the side o an also order o a tea in se eral a ors ith toppings li e tapio a pearls, o ee elly, egg p dding, popping o a and ore pen on Sat a p $ L D WIFI

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

The best curated calendar in 417-land just got better!

FESTIVAL OF TREES GALA

The annual Festival of Trees Gala celebrated the holiday season with a night of food, drinks and live entertainment.

Proceeds from the event helped support the Discovery Center’s mission to provide high-quality education for children in the community.

417 Magazine, Bass Pro Shops, Big Bear Shredding, Billiards of Springfield, BJS Trophy, Brightli, Burrell Behavioral Health, The Carpet Shoppe, Computer Recycling Center, FORVIS, Justice Jewelers, Mattax Neu Prater Eye Center, Mercy, Mid-Missouri Bank, The Moving Company, Nesbitt Construction, Positronic, Preferred Family Healthcare, Rich & Cartmill, RosAmungThorns, Shakers Mobile Bartending, Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits, Toth & Associates Consulting Engineers

Gabe Medina, Tammy Schipp

Kim Lucas & Tim Boysel

Molly & Jordan Summer

Kelly & Michael Papparella

Crystal & Kyle Monahan

Robert McBee, Amber Price

Ryan Sharp, Jim Ashley, Amanda Ashley

Dana & Scott Gold

Photos by Mary Ellen Chiles

THE NUTCRACKER SWEETS & TREATS

This fun, festive event bene ted Spring eld Ballet’s outreach and educational initiatives with an evening of sweet treats, a holiday story reading, boutique vendors, raf e baskets and performances of The Nutcracker. Date November 19

Benefiting

Sponsors

417 Magazine, MacaroniKid, Miles Boyer Photography, Springfield Ballet Guild, SumnerOne

Abigail Lind, Alexa Olson

Davina Easter, Elise Easter, Nova Easter

Kelly Magruder, Iris Cochrun, Cassy Cochrun

Teilia Greer, Gabby Greer

Vicki MacDonald, McKenzie MacDonald

Illana Goldberg, Hanna Golgberg, Bethany Reinbold, Hannah Reinbold

Peggy Reynolds, Lenora Sappington, Davina Sappington

Ellie Norris, Erin Norris

Photos by Ryan Kowalski

Make a Splash

PHOTO BY JEANIE EATON | JEANIE EATON PHOTOGRAPHY

Photographer Jeanie Eaton captured NASA’s SpaceX Dragon returning with NASA’s Crew-7 at 4:30 a.m. in March. The entry path passed over several Midwest states on the way to Florida. “It was quite the sight to see, as I managed to get one image taken before they disappeared over the horizon,” Eaton says.