Learn who is protecting the Ozarks, how you can get involved, and where to explore this fall
There’s nothing quite like the beauty of the Ozarks. This issue takes a look at those working to protect and preserve 417-land’s resources and landscapes—and how you can enjoy all the natural places in the Ozarks.
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We share our favorite dishes and drinks in our review of Palm & Paddle, a Caribbean-inspired restaurant on South Campbell Avenue.
Find the best live jazz shows in the Ozarks with 417 Jazz, who promote everything from trios to large ensembles.
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Every season in Missouri has its highlights, but fall is a particular favorite for many—and there are some very good reasons. Days are still just long enough for plenty of vitamin D, but not so hot that you’re slick with sunscreen. But perhaps best of all, this is the time of year when all the quirkiness of small-town Ozarks really comes out in the form of tons of local fall festival. From chicken pageants (not even kidding about that!) and bed races to apple-peeling contests and festival queen competitions, there is no shortage of funky fun to be had in towns all across 417-land. Enjoy all the autumn vibes outside, crunching into fresh apples, spotting enormous pumpkins and digging into all the fall fair food you can possibly handle at one of the festivals you can nd at 417mag.com/fallfests.
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There are plenty of ways to celebrate the spooky season around the Ozarks, but for anyone with their own kids, nieces, nephews or even young siblings, trick-ortreating is always going to be the highlight. Get the kids dressed up as their favorite characters and, once they’ve explained to you who the character is (because you have no idea), hit the best neighborhoods around Spring eld for some goodies. Visit 417mag.com/ trickortreat.
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Dressing up on Halloween isn’t just for kids, and we don’t care who says otherwise. If you’ve been a reader for a while, you know that it’s almost time for the 417 Magazine team’s Halloween Costume Contest! Keep an eye on all of our social media @417mag and on our website to see this year’s out ts and to vote.
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Don’t forget that now is the time to vote for your local favorites— from dishes to drinks to patios— in the annual Best of 417. Voting is only open for two weeks, from September 25–October 9, so make sure to enter yours now. Visit 417mag.com/bestof.
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It’s time to dust o the jersey and head out for game day! Whether you’re headed to Arrowhead Stadium or keeping things local, we’ve got some tips to make sure you’re game-day ready, from where to watch, what to wear and what to do if you’re only watching for Taylor. Visit 417mag.com/ gameday now.
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Visit 417mag.com/ newsletters to sign up for the best local newsletters. Table Talk brings you don’tmiss food news every Tuesday, Datebook o ers the top weekend events every Thursday, and House of 417 is your monthly passport to inspired living.
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Our December issue dives deep into co ee culture in the Ozarks! Let us be your guide for where to load up on ca eine in 417-land. Read it before anyone else by subscribing now. 417mag.com/subscribe.
We are a proud member of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the Ozark Chamber of Commerce, the Branson Chamber and Convention & Visitors Bureau, the City and Regional Magazine Association, the Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce, the Home Builders Association of Springfield and the Republic Area Chamber of Commerce.
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE POLLOCK ESTES editor@417mag.com
MANAGING EDITOR & BUSINESS EDITOR DORI GRINDER dori@417mag.com
RESEARCH EDITOR JO JOLLIFF jo@417mag.com
CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS EDITOR & STAFF WRITER JORDAN BLOMQUIST jblomquist@417mag.com
EDITORIAL INTERN MAURA CURRAN
CREATIVE DIRECTOR SARAH PATTON sarah@417mag.com
ART DIRECTOR JORDAN DYKSTRA jordan@417mag.com
SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER BRANDON ALMS brandon@417mag.com
EDITORIAL DESIGNER GRACE CHIPLEY-THOMPSON grace@417mag.com
PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER KATY ST. CLAIR kstclair@417mag.com
EDITORIAL DESIGN INTERN HALLE JOHNSON
PHOTOGRAPHY INTERN ARDEN DICKSON
DIGITAL EDITOR JAMIE THOMAS jthomas@417mag.com
DIGITAL COORDINATOR ELIZABETH VANFOSSON evanfosson@417mag.com
CONTRIBUTORS AD SMITH MARKETING AND ADVERTISING, JOSHUA BEECHER, TERESA BLEDSOE, MARY ELLEN CHILES, TESSA COOPER, JULIANA GOODWIN, SONY HOCKLANDER, ROBBIE HOLMES, IGNITE CREATIVE, KAREN KNUTH PHOTOGRAPHY, HEATHER KANE KOHLER, RYAN KOWALSKI, MORGAN LEA PHOTOGRAPHY, STEVEN ROSS FOR MO CVB, MARIYA SERYKH, JESSICA KENNON SPENCER, LEAH STIEFERMANN, VIVIAN WHEELER, DAN WILLIAMS, BRAD ZWEERINK
PUBLISHER LOGAN AGUIRRE logan@417mag.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AND CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS MEGAN JOHNSONmjohnson@417mag.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF STRATEGY AND SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE AMMIE SCOTTMOTES ascott@417mag.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JAMI WIGHTMAN jami@417mag.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JANELLE HAIK janelle@417mag.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE KAITLYN MESSINA kaitlyn@417mag.com
OFFICE MANAGER BERNADETTE PRY bernadette@417mag.com
OPERATIONS COORDINATOR ERIN PAYNE epayne@417mag.com
MARKETING DIRECTOR ANNAH CROW annah@417mag.com
STRATEGIC MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER ALEX OSREDKER aosredker@417mag.com
ACCOUNT SERVICES MANAGER KATHY GRIEVE kathy@417mag.com
ACCOUNT COORDINATOR NICKI SHERWOOD nicki@417mag.com
ADVERTISING DESIGNER KATIE BATLINER kbatliner@417mag.com
ADVERTISING DESIGNER MCKENZIE ROBINSON mckenzie@417mag.com
GARY WHITAKER gary@417mag.com JOAN WHITAKER joan@417mag.com
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Outdoors content has become one of the backbone topics that we cover in 417 Magazine. How can it not be, with these gorgeous Ozarks all around us and even more natural beauty to explore just outside our region?
Normally, our outdoors content is focused on what to do to enjoy the outdoors: places to go, activities to engage in, scenic vistas to seek out and explore. This month, we’re taking a di erent approach. We’re highlighting why these parts of the beautiful Ozarks are worth protecting (for us and future generations too), and some of the people and organizations devoted to doing just that. They are folks lled with passion for our region’s natural spaces and wildlife.
So next time you oat down the James River, you’ll understand who is responsible for keeping that waterway clean and beautiful for you. Next time you see a prairie restoration sign on a patch of land, you’ll understand why the health of those grassy spots is so important to the
critters that live there. And next time you nd yourself grumbling (and what lake house owner hasn’t?) about U.S. Corps of Engineers regulations around the edge of Table Rock Lake, you’ll understand how those regulations help ensure the lake remains the gorgeous spot it is for all of us to enjoy.
Often, the work of the people protecting our wild spaces goes a little bit unseen. It is their life’s passion and work. But the average person ying down a freshly made single-track mountain biking trail or shing in a spring-fed river may never think twice about the fact that someone is out there making sure these spaces remain wild, scenic and beautiful.
And don’t worry: If lists of beautiful trails, oatable rivers and more are what you’re seeking, you can nd that on these pages too—plus mountains more online at 417mag.com. (And in future issues of 417 as we ll The Long Way department with new adventures for you to embark upon.)
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE@417MAG.COM
Can we just take a second to say thanks to every single one of the people writing us letters and texts and pinging us online to tell us how much they love our redesign and the Publisher’s Preview Party we threw to launch our rebrand?
EDITOR
It’s incredible to see everything roll out today, knowing the work and planning you have put in over several months. Looking through the magazine last night, I kept telling Nate: “This is gorgeous! They did it!” You’ve delivered on the reader experience—it feels fresh and new but also so authentic.
I’m proud and grateful that I got to help tell the 417 story. Cheers to all the years to come!
SARAH JENKINS, COPY WRITER
What an accomplishment to roll out a new brand that is so authentic and true to who you have always been. And you all do it in such an elevated way, showing everyone the potential of our region if we just step out, work hard and boldly celebrate where we live and the people who make it happen.
MEGAN BUCHBINDER, SPRINGFIELD CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Congrats on the 417 refresh! I am absolutely loving it all: the fresh format, the logo revision, the new look, and on and on and on. But this especially strikes me: You have approached the re-launch with focus. 417, nor Silver Dollar City, nor any business in the world can be all things to all people. Focus matters. Focus increases the chances to thrive. I am so super proud of you and thankful that your fingerprints are on all of 417land. I’ve lived in 417 since I was 9 years old. I’m proud of this place, love this place, and love when others can protect, convey and strategize the future of this special place.
BRAD THOMAS, SILVER DOLLAR CITY
THAT’S THE WORD THAT KEPT COMING to my mind as we worked this past year on the intentional rebrand and redesign of 417 which launched last month with our September issue. So, why the word rooted?
• In a world that is rapidly fragmented, curated, ltered, manipulated… don’t we all want to feel rooted to something?
• When we nd a place we love, don’t we want to work to grow roots there?
• To be our best, isn’t it encouraging to know someone is always rooting for us?
Sony Hocklander is a seasoned journalist, photographer, editor and video producer with a 25-year history of storytelling in the Ozarks and a passion for the outdoors. She focuses on outdoor travel writing and photography and on printed outdoor photo art. Sony’s explorations on the trails, parks and other natural spaces throughout the Ozarks make her the perfect writer to share outdoors stories—like the one on p. 38 all about her first time finding elusive frost flowers on a Springfield-area trail.
This helped guide us to our renewed brand promise. At 417, why do we do what we do each day? This answer is simple: We do it all for you. We do it for the Ozarks. Because we are rooted here, and always rooting for 417-land. This month we are proud to introduce you to the people and places that are, quite literally, protecting our Ozark roots. I hope you enjoy this look at our wild places and then feel inspired to go out and experience them this fall.
PUBLISHER LOGAN@417MAG.COM
Tessa Cooper is a writer and photographer specializing in food, interior design and lifestyle content. She interned at 417 Magazine in 2015 and started freelancing for the publication in 2017. In addition to working as 417’s food writer, she contributes online stories to Better Homes & Gardens, House Beautiful, The Spruce and Apartment Therapy. In this issue of 417, Tessa wrote about a clarified cocktail (p. 89), her favorite sushi roll (p. 90) and more. She also writes the weekly Table Talk e-newsletter.
Heather Kane Kohler has worked as an interior and fashion stylist for more than 14 years and studied color, textiles and art in Paris, France. She has worked with 417 for more than 10 years, specializing in local home content. This month, she wrote stories highlighting beautiful moments at home, like the tale of a thoughtful remodel on p. 50 and the story about finding inspiration in the garden on p. 48. Heather resides in Nixa with her husband and two sons, where she collects persimmons. Read her persimmon recipes p. 92.
Brandon Alms is an awardwinning photographer whose passion drives him to capture a diverse range of subjects. Over his decade-long tenure at 417 Magazine, he has photographed more than 100 magazine covers—including the cover of this issue featuring a blue heron. With a keen eye for detail and an appreciation for the natural world, Brandon’s work vividly showcases the intricate beauty and vast diversity of our planet. Keep an eye out for more of his work in future issues of 417 Magazine
HIDDEN GEMS
A BELOVED OLD BUILDING ON BOLIVAR’S SQUARE BECOMES THE NEW BACKDROP FOR BACK ROAD RELICS’ MARKETS.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
WHEN CRYSTAL CONLEY, OWNER OF BACK ROAD RELICS (BOLIVAR) first toured the old “Stephen’s building” on Bolivar’s square, it was love at first sight. “This building had a soul,” Conley says. The space that now houses Conley’s occasional vintage and antique home goods market (originally located about four miles south on the outskirts of Bolivar) was built in the early 1900s. Conley says it has been a part of the Bolivar square for as long as anyone can remember.
Conley enlisted lots of family members to help her restore the space to its former glory. The building had previously been used as a photography studio and had choppy spaces. Conley
brings new life to
with
seasonal markets that draw in crowds from all over looking at her collection of home goods and unique vintage nds.
“It’s a small town, and people saw what we were doing. There was an outpouring of support from the community; people were excited to see the space take on a new life.”
Creating a new backdrop for Conley’s vintage treasures and modern finds was the goal. She wanted to focus on the right aesthetic. “It’s all about the feeling when you walk into the space,” says Conley. “One person said it feels like a big hug when you walk in. I loved that.”
Back Road Relics is only open once a month, and Conley works hard to set up beautifully layered vignettes, creating a new experience for shoppers each month. There’s always something new to discover. The new space has a quaint little backyard area as well—the perfect place for Conley to decompress after a busy market weekend.
began by stripping out as much as she could, and during the process she uncovered brick walls, old wallpaper and plaster, which she left as-is. “Old is my passion,” says Conley. “I was thrilled.”
As they peeled away more and more, the beauty of the building began to come to life. One of the first tasks was removing all the carpet to see what was underneath. Turns out, under layers and layers of carpet, linoleum and particle board were hardwood floors. “It was blood, sweat and tears getting it all up,” says Conley. “But it was so worth it.”
As her family worked away on the building, locals buzzed about what she was up to. “It’s a small town, and people saw what we were doing,” says Conley. “There was an outpouring of support from the community; people were excited to see the space take on a new life.” Conley removed the drop ceiling to expose a gorgeous original tin ceiling, and she removed old dressing rooms, cabinets and many other elements that were not original to the building, exposing the raw bones of the space.
Fall is a great time to visit the market. Conley brings out cozy fall items like porch quilts, wool blankets and rustic benches, as well as decorative items like heirloom pumpkins. “Our fall market is also when we release our Christmas collection,” says Coney. “It’s the perfect time to kick off holiday shopping.”
No matter what you’re looking for, you can expect to enjoy a magical experience at Back Road Relics, and the new location is a great example of Conley’s passion for old and her creativity for creating unique experiences that have come together to save a treasured landmark in downtown Bolivar.
October 10–12
November 7–9 (Christmas Open House)
November 30
December 12–14
“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.”
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.
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 sta 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.
417-864-9491
GILLIOZ.ORG
325 PARK CENTRAL EAST SPRINGFIELD
WRITER JORDAN BLOMQUIST TRIES THE POPULAR SELF-CARE TREND THAT’S ALL OVER SOCIAL MEDIA RIGHT NOW: THE HEAD SPA.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
HEAD SPAS HAVE LONG been popular in countries like Korea and Japan, and they have nally made their way to 417-land. A head spa is like a facial for your scalp. Massage therapists use serums, conditioners, massage tools and oils to deep clean your scalp and provide a relaxing experience. In the name of research, I had to try the treatment myself.
“It’s a great way to indulge in some selfcare that gives you results and feels great
at the same time,” says Angelique Penick, owner of BeSpoke Head Spa (Springeld). “Having a scalp massage is as great as a full body massage, and it promotes healthy hair growth.”
There are many spas in the Ozarks offering deep scalp treatments now, but I went to BeSpoke where the 60-minute private head spa costs $95. They also o er a detox version of the same service, designed to clarify your hair and give you
a squeaky-clean start. If you’re looking to sample the service, they have a 30-minute head spa option for $75. BeSpoke provides several other spa experiences, such as a zero-gravity oat, a double infrared sauna, teeth whitening and estethician services and facials.
We tried BeSpoke Head Spa’s private 60-minute head spa treatment.
As I cozied up in the private head spa room, the lights dimmed and soothing spa music began to play throughout the room. The massage therapist placed a quartz mask over my
eyes, signaling the start of the service. During my treatment at BeSpoke, I did the 60-minute private head spa. The therapist started with an Amika pink charcoal scalp cleansing oil, followed by a tingle shampoo, a scalp cleansing gel, a lavender mint conditioner and nally, a deep conditioning mask. The hour-long treatment is like the best ve minutes of a haircut— when the stylist massages your head while washing your hair. I was so relaxed that I nearly fell asleep.
Between each wash, the therapist gives a deep scalp massage, using various tools to comb the products through the hair and thoroughly cleanse the scalp. My favorite tool was a round water circulation rack that sat over my head like a halo. When it was turned on, it felt like a warm waterfall cascading over my hair. As my hair sat in the deep conditioning mask toward the end of the service, the therapist massaged my shoulders, neck and arms. Customers have the option to have a sheet mask applied to their face at this time. After the treatment, I relaxed in a salon chair for a blowout, slowly easing back into the real world.
As I was leaving the salon, I told Penick that I was now on a mission to get my mom and sisters to try the head spa. That’s how good it was—I want everyone I know to try the service. It’s de nitely one I’ll do again, and as soon as possible.
If I could do this service every week, I would. It was not only a relaxing, peaceful escape from daily tasks but also felt like a wonderful way to practice self-care.
While blow-drying, Penick kept telling me my hair felt like silk, and she was right! My scalp was incredibly clean, and my hair felt as so as ever.
FOR SOME, JAZZ MUSIC gives life to a nostalgic feeling. For others, it’s a soothing melody or their favorite dance track. Regardless of what draws you to jazz, 417 Jazz is dedicated to ensuring everyone in town can enjoy the genre. 417 Jazz was launched nearly two years ago to keep the community up to date on where to watch live jazz in Spring eld. “None of our fans ever really knew where we were playing, so it was kind of out of necessity for our small but mighty group of followers,” says Todd Brueggemann, 417 Jazz creator.
417 Jazz began two years ago to share where to watch jazz in Springfield.
Since then, 417 Jazz has been highlighting the jazz community in every way they can. Musicians inform 417 Jazz of their upcoming gigs, and the organization starts spreading the word. Musicians can reach out to them about upcoming jazz events by emailing hello@417jazz.com.
Jazz is an art that transcends generations. “We have ve-year-olds dancing next to couples in their sixties,” Brueggemann says. No two gigs are ever the same, with 417 Jazz promoting everything from trios to large ensembles like the 16-piece Mojo orchestra. Holdfast Brewing Company has been hosting jazz artists every Tuesday evening for ve years, and it has become a popular hotspot for jazz listeners in town, drawing upwards of 100–200 people each night. “The great jazz at Holdfast has become a big part of our lives,” says Paula Pollard, a local jazz fan. “To be able to enjoy that level of talent locally is something very special.” Many other spots in town are adding jazz artists to their live music lineup, such as the Gillioz Theatre, Galloway Station, Blue Room Comedy Club, Tie & Timber, Where House Bar, Wire Road Brewing, Retro Metro, The Dugout and more.
A SUNNY STREET CORNER IN DOWNTOWN SPRINGFIELD IS HOME TO A MINI GREEN SPACE THE WHOLE COMMUNITY CAN ENJOY.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
THIS ISSUE’S COVER story is all about the Ozarks’ wildest natural places and the people who keep them pristine. But communing with nature doesn’t have to happen two hours outside of town. Moments of sunshine, green grass, fragrant owers and fresh air can happen on your lunch break, if you know where to look.
Take, for example, a special spot in the heart of downtown Spring eld. Pocket Park SGF is located at the intersection of McDaniel Street and South Avenue—right next to Nonna’s Italian Cafe. Amid a sea of buildings and bustling business, this little spot is an oasis of green grass, tall sun owers, a colorfully painted border and shaded tables where visitors can sit a while. It’s
situated on a corner leased for $1 to the Downtown Spring eld Community Improvement District by the lot’s owners Anne and Clayton Baker, a pair that also also owns Tinga Tacos, Finnegan’s Wake and Civil Kitchen—all downtown dining establishments. The CID keeps the park in tip-top shape and is currently one year into its two-year lease of the downtown lot.
And although you can certainly enjoy the space during the day to soak up the sun, you can also pop in after dark. On Friday and Saturday nights, an adjoining gravel lot houses a rotating roster of local food trucks where you can grab a bite while you’re out on the town. Recent weekends have featured Ghiotto Eatery, The Hibachi Experience, Good Pizza, Bedda Matri, Arabiana and other locally owned food trucks.
“By listening to each patient’s life goals, they offer tailored options to enhance quality of life, helping patients thrive while on dialysis.”
THE KIDNEY SPECIALISTS invite patients to experience the exceptional care at their physician-owned dialysis facilities. With board-certi ed physicians and nurse practitioners who visit each dialysis unit weekly, they provide the personalized care that dialysis patients need. By listening to each patient’s life goals, they o er tailored options to enhance quality of life, helping patients thrive while on dialysis.
Visitors from across the country often express amazement at the compassionate, expert care delivered by their team of nurses, technicians, dietitians and social workers. The warm and welcoming environment frequently draws praise from patients and their families, with many returning year after year.
The facility o ers a full range of dialysis therapies, including in-center hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, home hemodialysis, and transplant referrals and follow-ups. They are deeply committed to improving patients’ lives through both professional care and emotional support.
Located on the Cox Hospital campus in Branson, with additional units in Branson West and Harrison, Arkansas, the practice also provides an outstanding kidney disease education program. This program has been highly e ective in slowing kidney disease progression, keeping patients active and engaged. Patients can receive all the necessary therapies close to home, eliminating the need to travel.
On the agenda this month: nonstop fun. Fill your days with the season’s best local events.
BY ALEX OSREDKER
October 1
Bring your kiddos to see their favorite (and probably also your favorite) TV pups, the Heelers, live and on stage at Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. The stage adaptation of the beloved, Emmy award-winning show Bluey brings the loveable and heartwarming characters to life as huge and elaborate puppets. Get the VIP Package Ticket to gain exclusive access.
$27–82; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Hall Pkwy., Spring eld, hammonshall.com
October 2
Grab your popcorn and get ready for some 1980s nostalgia at this screening of The Breakfast Club at the Gillioz Center for Arts & Entertainment. See babyfaced Anthony Michael Hall, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson, Emilio Estevez and more as they represent a group of oh-so-di erent students in detention together. It’s a classicly quotable silver screen reason to take a middday break.
$8; Gillioz Center for Arts & Entertainment, 325 Park Central E., Spring eld, gillioztheatre.com/events
October 3 and 10
Peruse fresh veggies, baked goods, plants, pottery and more at C-Street City Market’s last two events until April 2025.
C-Street City Market, 321 E. Commercial St., Spring eld
October 3 and 17
Enjoy a restorative yoga class (led by a certi ed instructor) while taking in the sites at Wonders of Wildlife.
$16; Wonders of Wildlife, 500 W. Sunshine St., Spring eld, wondersofwildlife.org
October 3
Make a day trip to Branson and visit the Branson Farmers Market, where you’ll nd local products like soap and honey, handmade items goods like pottery from artists and local vegetables and produce. This farmers market is at the Branson Landing’s south parking lot, so make sure to visit some of the other shops while you’re there, too.
Free; Branson Landing South Parking Lot, 100 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, explorebranson.com
FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK
October 4
Immerse yourself in the 417-land art scene and stroll through downtown Spring eld, exploring local art, music and more on this free, self-guided tour.
Free; Downtown Spring eld, springeldarts.org
SCOTTY MCCREERY
October 4
Recording artist Scotty McCreery’s Fall of Summer tour to the Aetos Center for Performing Arts. Fans will hear hits like “Cab in a Solo” and “Five More Minutes.”
McCreery was just invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry by Garth Brooks and inducted in April by Josh Turner and Randy Travis.
$49–69, Aetos Center for Performing Arts, 514 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa, aetoscenter.net
October 5
Support Equine Collective Rescue Sanctuary at their second annual Fall Fest. Attendees will be able to meet the horses, decorate pumpkins, participate in a costume contest and peruse goodies from local vendors.
$5; 5555 South State Highway NN, Rogersville
BARAK HILL LIVE
October 5
Spring eld native Barak Hill will be performing a mix of original songs and covers at Turkey Creek Brewery. Having won the American Songwriters Magazine’s 2021 Santa Cruz Guitar Song Contest, Hill stands out as a musical storyteller. His songs are intimate and personal, with notes of heartbreak and hope.
Free; Turkey Creek Brewery, 1865 S. State Highway 65, Hollister
I GOT RHYTHM CONCERT
October 5
Enjoy the new concerto by Thailand’s composer, Narong Prangcharoen, called Sound, Echo and Silence. Plus, you’ll also hear musical stylings from Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony in this Spring eld Symphony Orchestra performance with Nuengsaran Prukthaisong, Phin and Patchaya Nantachai, Khaen.
Ticket prices vary; 7:30 p.m.; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Spring eld, spring eldmosymphony.org
ZZ TOP CONCERT
October 6
Jam along to music from ZZ Top at Black Oak Amphitheatre. Attendees will get to hear hits like “Sharp Dressed Man” and “Gimme All Your Loving.”
NOW OR NEVER
Help a local nonpro t celebrate its 30th anniversary by giving back at their annual fundraiser.
Camp is the quintessential summertime activity for kids. It’s a childhood moment filled with exploration, independence and growth. And since 1994, Camp Barnabas has made sure that kids with special needs and chronic illnesses have the opportunity to experience the freedom and fun of summer camp too.
This year, the organization is celebrating its 30th anniversary, and the milestones just keep coming: They opened a brand new dining hall this year as well. You can help them celebrate 30 years and raise funds for many more to come by attending Camp Barnabas’s annual Glamping for Camping event on October 5 at Grandveiw Conference Center at Big Cedar Lodge. There’s live music, a live auction and a three-course meal— along with some very camp-centric fun in the form of s’mores and lawn games. Visit campbarnabas.org/events for information and tickets.
VIP packages are available, so make sure to check out their website for details on behind-the-scenes access and meet and greets with the band..
Ticket prices vary; Black Oak Amphitheater, 1728 State Highway H, Lampe, blackoakamp.com
THE COALMINERS PRESENT ALWAYS LORETTA
October 7
The Coalminers present Always Loretta in honor of Loretta Lynn, the most awarded woman in country music history with more than 60 years of recording and touring. Experience an evening of songs and stories from those who knew her best.
$25–35, Aetos Center for Performing Arts, 514 S. Nicholas, Nixa, aetoscenter.net
DEAR EVAN HANSEN
October 8–10
Hear your favorite songs from the beloved Broadway musical Dear Evan Hansen, like “You Will Be Found,” “For Forever” and “Waving Through a Window.” The show tackles the interconnectedness of our social media lled lives and is part of the Hammons Hall Broadway series.
$56–104; Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway, Spring eld, hammonshall.com
October 10
The Let It Begin tour with Big Daddy Weave is coming to Nixa for a night of inspiration and joy featuring their latest hits like “Heaven Changes Everything” and “God Is In This Story.” Attendees will also hear music from Hannah Kerr, producer of radio hits like “Split the Sea” and “Same God” and The Young Escape band from Riverside, California who will perform “Good Life” and “Love Me Like You.”
$30–60, Aetos Center for Performing Arts, 514 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa, aetoscenter.net
BRANSON FARMERS MARKET
October 10
Make a day trip to Branson and visit the Branson Farmers Market, where you’ll nd handmade products like soap and
honey in addition to local vegetables and produce. This farmers market is located at the Branson Landing’s south parking lot. Make sure to visit some of the other Branson Landing shops and restaurants while you’re there.
Free; Branson Landing South Parking Lot, 100 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, explorebranson.com
FINLEY FARMS WELLNESS RETREAT
October 11 –13
This retreat o ers a harmonious blend of mindfulness practices, yoga sessions and holistic workshops aimed at fostering inner peace and balance. Guests can indulge in nourishing farm-to-table meals, connect with like-minded individuals and immerse in nature’s tranquility at the scenic Finley Farms.
$795; Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark; finleyfarmsmo.com
JEEPIN’ FOR A CURE
October 12
Jeep lovers, listen up! Raise money and awareness for women fighting against breast cancer at this fundraising event, which includes a silent auction, food trucks, vendors and music.
$40; 6151 North 21st Street, Ozark, jeepinforacure.com
October 16
Sing along to popular hit songs like “Son of a Sinner” and “Save Me” during Jelly Roll’s concert at Great Southern Bank Arena on the Missouri State Univeristy campus.
Ticket prices vary; Great Southern Bank Arena, 685 South John Q Hammons Parkway, Springfield, greatsouthernbankarena.com
Reliable, regular attention for a healthy lawn, all year long.
October 17
Celebrate 22 years of Mama Jean’s with delicious food, great drinks, dancing and more at their anniversary celebration. Free; MaMa Jean’s Natural Market, 3530 E. Sunshine St., Springfield. To purchase tickets and for more information, visit mamajeansmarket.com/events.
October 17
Celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Developmental Center of the Ozarks, an organization committed to serving individuals with disabilities.
$150; Highland Springs Country Club, 5499 South Highland Springs Boulevard, Springfield. For more information, visit dcoonline.com/calendar/70th-anniversary-platinum-party.
October 18
Put on your (red) dancing shoes for the 10th annual Red Shoe Gala, which includes an evening of dinner and dancing, all for Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks.
Ticket prices vary; White River Conference Center, 600 West Sunshine, Spring eld. For more information, visit rmhcozarks.org/ events/red-shoe-gala.
October 18–27
Enjoy a thrilling evening full of mystery with Spring eld Little Theatre’s production of Murder on the Orient Express—it’s bound to keep you on the edge of your seat in suspense..
Ticket prices vary, The Landers Theatre, 311 East Walnut Street, Spring eld, spring eldlittletheatre.org
Don your best scarf and cross your ngers for sweater weather as you explore fall fests at sweet local farms.
Pickin’ Patch
Find it in: Marionville
Come for: hay rides, corn maze, mini-pumpkin checkers board, kids activities, a huge pumpkin and mum selection and more.
Gardener’s Orchard
Find it in: Brighton
Come for: zinnia picking, pig-ride races, corn pit, a huge slide, roll races, jumping pad, barrel train, pumpkin patch, apple cider donuts, corn maze and more.
October 19
Celebrate fall with the whole family at the 4th annual Farm & Harvest Festival! Festivities include vendors, food trucks,
Fieth Family Farm
Find it in: Bolivar
Come for: a hay bale maze, corn maze, rope swings, a giant treehouse play place, barrel train, bonfires, farm animals and more.
Rutledge Wilson Farm Park
Find it in: Springfield
Come for: a pumpkin patch, horse rides, tasty concessions, bounce houses, kettle corn and more.
live entertainment, painting and games for all ages to enjoy. For extended information, nd the event listing online on Facebook.
Free; 102 East Front Street, Rogersville.
October 19
Dress yourself, your kids and your fourlegged friends in their Halloween best for the Pets and Pumpkins Family Festival. That’s right: You can bring the whole family (pups included) to this event, which o ers tasty treats, drinks, games and a costume contest. For more information, search for the event listing on Facebook.
Park Central Square, 138 Park Central Square, Spring eld
October 20
Join Finley Farms for an enriching discussion on herbs for wellness support with their resident farmer and herbalist, Liesel McCleary. The class focuses on autumnal herbs, introducing you to herbal energetics and nourishing, immune-supportive herbs, roots and mushrooms. Attendees will learn about herbal preparations, actions, and applications and take home recipes and resources.
$25; Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark; nleyfarmsmo.com
PAINTING WITH A SPLASH—BAT
October 22
Whether you’re an avid painter or a novice, all skill levels are welcome at Wonders of Wildlife’s Painting with a Splash event. Participants can follow along with an instructor as they create their own painting—all while enjoying drinks and snacks.
$35; Wonders of Wildlife, 500 W. Sunshine St., Spring eld, wondersofwildlife.org
October 23
Get ready to set the holiday season up perfectly with an array of your favorite gluten-free recipes. This interactive class o ers new insights into gluten-free cooking and lets you savor the delicious dishes you create right in class. Think aromatic stu ng, turkey gravy, and butternut pie.
$25; Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark; nleyfarmsmo.com
October 23
The Gillioz Theatre presents And That’s Why We Drink: The Pour Decisions Tour, o ering a night of chilling thrills and intoxicating laughter. If you’re a fan of the hilarious true crime and paranormal podcast And That’s Why We Drink podcast, you’ll probably love this event too.
$25–65; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld. To buy tickets, visit gillioztheatre.com.
BREWS WITH MOOS 2.0
October 26
Pet adorable miniature cows while enjoying a refreshing beer at this event put together by Perfect Picture Pony and 4 by 4 Brewing Company. Find event information on Facebook.
$5; 4 by 4 Brewing Company, 9003 Sawgrass Avenue, Nixa
ARTSY ALLEY
October 26
Peruse local artisans booths for beautiful, hand-made items in addition to the local veggies, produce, owers and more they o er every week.
Free; Farmers Market of the Ozarks, 2144 E. Republic Rd., Spring eld. For more information, visit loveyourfarmer.com.
BEASTS
October 26
The Gillioz Theatre is hosting several movie night matinees throughout the month.
Bring your kiddos to the Dickerson Park Zoo for their Wizards and Fantastic Beasts Day, which includes in atables, face painting and craft stations.
Dickerson Park Zoo, 1401 W. Norton Rd., Spring eld; dickersonparkzoo.org/events.
CANDLELIGHT: A HAUNTED EVENING OF HALLOWEEN
October 31
Live music and a magical candlelit atmosphere combine at Drury University’s beautiful Stone Chapel. The Liseso String Quartet plays spooky Halloweeninspired tunes while awash in the glow of twinkling candles. The event includes music from favorites like Halloween, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, The
Three of the region’s best corn mazes also feature some creepy frights perfect for lovers of spooky season.
If You Really Want to Get Lost Aurura Maize in Aurora
The truly gigantic corn maze is the main event at this spot full of fall activities. It’s large enough to be challenging no matter what time of day you visit, and you might actually get a little turned around in there. A er dark, the crank it up a notch and it’s haunted by roving spooky actors.
If You Have Nerves of Steel Monster Corn Maze in Cabool
Everything is super-spooky here, not just the corn maze (which is open only a er dark and features scary characters roaming the corn field). There’s also a haunted village where those same creepy creeps lurk waiting for a good scare.
If You Can’t Get Enough Terror
Exeter Corn Maze in Exeter
The corn maze is haunted. The barn? Haunted. The farmhouse? Also haunted, and it’s illumined only by the lanterns you carry through. The bunker? Yes, there’s a bunker, and yes it’s haunted too. Anyone who’s not so sure they want to be terrified can hop on the more lightweight Halloween-themed wagon ride.
Addams Family, Psycho, Ghostbusters and Stranger Things, as well as “Thriller” by Michael Jackson, “Danse Macabre” by Camille Saint-Saëns, “Funeral March of a Marionette” and lots more.
Stone Chapel at Drury University, 900 N. Benton Ave., Spring eld, feverup.com
Through October 26
Bring together the whole family and enjoy Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival! Festivities include tasty treats, great music, Halloween fun and more.
Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy., Branson. Visit silverdollarcity.com for more information and ticket options.
Christmas magic you can’t find under the tree.
Through October 26
This annual Branson festival is the perfect family adventure with hayrides, picking out and painting pumpkins, making your own scarecrow and more. Enjoy breathtaking views of Branson in the fall as you stroll through the lively fall festival and take part in entertaining activities. There are a couple di erent ticket options, so make sure to check out their website to nd the best t for you and your crew.
Ticket prices vary; Shepherd of the Hills, 5586 West 76 Country Boulevard, Branson. To purchase tickets, visit theshepherdofthehills.com/shepherds-pumpkinfest.
Through October 27
Fall festivities are in full swing at Sycamore Creek Family Ranch with hayrides, a kids corn maze, pickeball, woodred pizza and more.
Ticket prices vary; Sycamore Creek Family Ranch, 2657 Sunset Inn Road, Branson. For more information, visit www.sycamore creekfamilyranch.com/fall-roundup.
Through October 29
Join the Harvest Fest party on weekends with hayrides, cow train, in atables, pony rides, kettle corn and more. Meander through the corn maze and check out their newest feature, Barnyard Races, and human-power hamster wheels.
Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park, 3825 W. Farm Rd. 146, Spring eld; parkboard.org
Ongoing
Blue Room Comedy Club has a stacked October lineup with shows from Chris Porter, Je Leeson, Kyle Kinane, Trae Crowder and more. Head over to the club to enjoy food, drinks and a night full of laughs with your favorite comedians.
Ticket prices and show times vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Spring eld. For tickets, visit blueroomcomedyclub.com.
Every Tuesday in October Walnut Grove’s Farmers Market runs from May through October, featuring an assortment of artisan crafts, baked goods, beautiful plants, and farm-fresh produce. In addition, there are local musicians and
food trucks at each event, making it a great place to bring a blanket and relax after shopping for some local goodies.Find additional information in the Facebook event listing.
Free; Walnut Grove City Park, 212 E. College St., Walnut Grove
BY JULIANA GOODWIN
THIS FALL, CARTHAGE IS calling your name. Every October, the city welcomes 70,000 visitors for its nine-day Maple Leaf Festival, a celebration of autumn that began in 1967 in honor of the city’s 125th anniversary. The autumn extravaganza begins with an Oktoberfest, has various events throughout the week, and culminates with the Maple Leaf Festival parade where festivities last into the night. There are many opportunities for family fun.
That Festival Feeling
Oktoberfest is held October 12 and kicks o week-long activities held daily. It starts at 11 a.m. in Carthage Central Park with a baby show, followed by a chicken pageant, music, games and Carthage Rotary brats in the park. The following Saturday, the Maple Leaf Festival parade (carthagechamber.com) starts at 9 a.m. and is the largest parade in southwest
Missouri. It stretches nearly two miles and begins around the historic square, then down Grant Street to Grand, turns on Centennial and ends at the Carthage Junior High at Centennial and River Street. About 30,000 people are expected to line the streets, so get there early. Parade day also includes a carnival, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, games, live music, a car show, tractor pull and a Saturday night concert from local musicians on the square.
Shop a Little, Eat a Little
Cherry’s Art Emporium on the Square is a charming spot where you’ll nd local paintings, co ee mugs, pipes, pottery, custom framing, unique art, wine and a great burger at The Woodshed Steak and Burger House (facebook.com/thewoodshed311). Cherry’s is eclectic, and the burgers are juicy and delicious at The Woodshed. It is a perfect place to eat and shop for gifts.
“Every
October, the city welcomes 70,000 visitors for its nine-day Maple Leaf Festival, a celebration of autumn that began in 1967.”
Located on the square, Garde Manger (carthagegardemanger.com) is a must visit for any foodie. They opened two years ago and sell wine from around the world, including two Missouri varieties. This gourmet shop has Amish cheese and an array of other cheeses, sausages, specialty mustards and sauces, artisan crackers and everything you need to build the ultimate charcuterie board or stock your pantry for those holiday parties.
Maple Leaf Co eehouse (mapleleafco eehouse.com) is a cute family-run business o ering co ee, breakfast and lunch. They serve Copper Canyon Co ee Roasters out of Battle eld, and the menu features salads, paninis, acai or smoothie bowls, breakfast burritos, crepes and more. Try the signature Maple Leaf Latte with espresso, steamed milk, maple spice, cinnamon and praline syrup. Order one to-go to sip during the parade.
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Did you know Carthage was home to the rst major Civil War battle? The Battle of Carthage took place on July 5, 1861, just 11 days before the Battle of Bull Run. Learn more about it at Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum (carthagemo. gov), which has artifacts, a diorama and a 7-x-15-foot mural painted by local artist Andy Thomas.
A SPECIAL KIND OF “WILDFLOWER” ONLY EMERGES IN OCTOBER— AND ONLY FOR ABOUT A DAY.
BY SONY HOCKLANDER
I’VE LIVED IN THE OZARKS for 25 years, but until last fall, I’d never seen an elusive frost ower. I’ve been envious of photos posted by lucky early morning hikers showing ethereal white ribbons of ice curling around the stem of a native wildower on trails.
At last, I saw some for myself early one cold morning a year ago at Wilson’s Creek National Battle eld. The timing, location and weather conditions—a perfect frost ower storm if you will—had nally aligned in my favor.
While we call them “frost owers” around the Ozarks, the eeting delicate icy sculptures are not the same as frost and only sometimes look like owers. Just as often, they look like swirls of white cotton candy,
or like very thin white ribbon candy. Sometimes they are heart-shaped, or circular.
Bob Kipfer, a member of the Spring eld Plateau chapter of the Missouri Master Naturalists, thinks they look more like ice ribbons. Also known in some parts of the country as ice owers, the phenomenon’s o cial name is crystallofolia, coined by Bob Harms, a professor from the University of Texas, Austin. Kipfer spoke to Harms about his own interest in frost owers because he and his wife get so many on their 400 acres near Bull Creek.
Frost owers often occur with the rst hard freeze in fall, when the air temperature drops below freezing at night but days are still mild temperatures, says Malissa Briggler, State Botanist with Missouri Department of Conservation.
As the temperature continues to drop, moisture in the stems of certain 417-land native wild owers begins to freeze and expand until it bursts through the stem in small vertical slits. “Moisture is still moving through that stem and the plant hasn’t completely shut down for the winter yet,” Briggler says. As moisture moves through the slits, she adds, “it’s continually pushing out this water and freezing.”
As the moisture freezes, it curls into fragile, thin swirls or “petals.” While they are eeting, it’s possible frost owers can happen more than once on the same plant, Kipfer says, if freezing nights and warmer days continue but the e ects will be reduced. It depends on how damaged the plant becomes, and how much moisture is retained. Once the ground has completely frozen—when it’s freezing night and day—frost owers are over for the season.
Frost owers only form on certain wild ower plants. They most often occur around the base of a stem but may reach higher on taller plants. The best frost ower plants are wild owers that mature late.
Portions of Kipfer’s property are lled with one of the most common contenders, white crownbeard (also known as frostweed), which can grow tall. “It’s a weedy natural plant, and it’s got owers spring and summer that are not particularly showy. But in winter, when (frost owers) hit, we will have them all over the eld,” Kipfer says.
Another plant in 417-land most likely to form frost owers is dittany. “You could easily walk past it and not see it because it’s so low to the ground,” Kipfer says.
Briggler says a few other Missouri plants that produce frost owers include yellow ironweed, goldenrod and boneset.
Frost owers are like snow akes: No two are alike. To discover them for yourself, wait for conditions when temperatures rst drop below freezing at night but remain above freezing during the day.
When that happens, plan to get up early. Frost owers occur overnight and they melt quite quickly when direct sunlight falls upon them.
From a distance, frost owers have been mistaken for cotton, discarded tissues or plastic grocery bags. The rst time Kipfer and his wife, Barb, saw them, they thought thick white spider webs had formed around their plants. When Briggler rst saw them, she thought styrofoam or paper had scattered on the roadside. “Upon closer inspection, I realized, no, those were actually frost owers everywhere,” Briggler says.
Frost owers may be found along creeks and rivers, in low-water areas along a woodland trail, on fencerows and in ditches. Any undisturbed place where white crownbeard is likely to grow is a good spot to check.
I saw them near a creek area while driving the tour road around Wilson’s Creek Battle eld. Kipfer has seen them at Lake Spring eld. He recommends driving along back country roads to nd some on the rst frosty morning.
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GET AWAY TO PRAIRIE STATE PARK TO EXPERIENCE THE VASTNESS OF THE PRAIRIE AND MAKE A STOP AT THE HANGAR KAFE.
BY JO JOLLIFF
TRAILS IN 417-LAND ARE PRETTY CONSISTENT IN THEIR OFFERINGS, with paths that twist and wind through wooded trails and lead through peaks and valleys of the Ozark Mountains. As someone born and raised in at-as-a-pancake Kansas, this certainly came as a lovely surprise. But while there is nothing like the views of the rolling hills and canopy of trees, there is something about the sprawling panoramic view of the prairies I’ve missed.
Perhaps it’s its proximity to the Kansas border in the southwest corner of Missouri, but Prairie State Park in Barton County gives me the perfect taste of home. Its trails lead you through vistas of swaying grass and wild owers that go on for miles. “The trails are pretty well-de ned,” says park naturalist Dana Hoisington. “We mow them so they’re about 5 feet wide going through the prairie and take you through some of the prettiest areas of the park. Plus there’s always the chance you might see some bison and deer running around.”
While the trails may not be lined with trees changing color this fall, Hoisington suggests they have their own beauty to o er. “There’s some beautiful fall colors on prairies
“I promise, it might just give the rest of the Ozarks a run for its money in the competition for best sunsets.”
that go underappreciated,” Hoisington says. “Some of the grasses turn a beautiful lemon yellow and others are a rusty red and bright golden and there’s still plenty of owers growing in October.”
Although the herd of bison is certainly the star attraction for guests, the vegetation attracts a diversity of wildlife from butter ies and cicadas to woodpeckers and owls, making the park the perfect spot for birders and botanists alike. “In the fall there’s a lot of migrating birds starting to head north and some that are coming from the north so we have quite the variety,” Hoisington explains.
My favorite part about growing up in Kansas, and the reason I encourage you to stay at Prairie State Park until sunset, is that as the sky lls with a multitude of colors you’ll be able to catch every moment in a 360-degree view without any obstructions. I promise, it might just give the rest of the Ozarks a run for its money in the competition for best sunsets.
On the way home (or on the way there if you plant to stay at Prairie until sunset!), make a detour to Miller to eat at Hangar Kafe. Family-owned, this sweet spot is the perfect place to fuel up for breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert. (I recommend the homemade pie!) But even better than the food, you’ll get to enjoy watching airplanes taking o , and on special days you might catch a glimpse of skydivers or the Kansas National Guard in CH-47 Chinook helicopters flying in for a bite to eat. If you want to jump in on the action yourself, they o er weather-permitting hot air balloon and plane rides.
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ROUTE
DAY TRIP TO BRANSON DURING PEAK FALL COLOR TO RIDE THREE ROLLER COASTERS THAT GIVE YOU EXCELLENT VIEWS OF THE COLORFUL, CHANGING LEAVES AS YOU ZIP THROUGH THE TREES.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
The Branson Coaster is one of the area’s Alpine-style mountain coasters. This type of ride sits low to the ground, and you can control the experience with the help of a hand brake. It puts you up right in the thick of the trees you’re traveling through, and in the fall that view is breathtaking.
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The Branson Coaster lets guests control the experience with the help of a hand brake.
Runaway Mountain Coaster is another Alpine-stylemountain coaster, and it’s located on the strip too. Thanks to the hilly up-and-down topography of the area, the coaster only needs a rider and gravity to do its thing. It puts you right in the middle of the trees as you coast through a wooded area.
WildFire roller coaster at Silver Dollar City is the next step up from a mountain coaster, and it’s been a favorite at the park since it debuted in 2001. It might not be as hightech as some newer coasters, but it has the best view in the entire park. At the top of the first hill, you are treated to a sweeping Table Rock Lake vista. Then the next thing you know, you’re flying down the hill and shrieking with joy.
Extra credit: Okay, this one’s not a coaster, but it’s definitely thrilling: Ride Zipline USA in the fall to soar through the trees and (our favorite!) high above a deep wooded valley. The views are second-to-none any time of year.
THE REED FAMILY UPS THEIR CAMPING GAME AND TURNS THEIR RV INTO A WARM AND COLORFUL HOME ON THE ROAD.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER PHOTOGRAPHED BY KATY ST. CLAIR
IWENT CAMPING QUITE a bit with my dad,” remembers Je Reed, recalling growing up in the Ozarks and camping as part of their shing trips to local lakes. The two would spend the day shing, camp overnight and then sh again the next day. That was years before Je would take his daughter, Cerise (15), and wife, Cynthia, along for their own family camping trips.
Things have changed quite a bit since then. Today, the Reeds hit the open road in a Jayco Jay ight RV and enjoy the com-
forts of modern day camping. “We wanted a comfortable place to hang out on those occasions when a rainstorm pops up,” says Cynthia. Their camper has a comfortable couch for moments like that, and it requires a lot less set-up than the pop-up camper they used to use. Now, they can pull up to their campsite and be ready to relax almost right away.
A bright, shiny new camper was a dream come true for the Reed family, but it lacked personalization and the coziness they craved for their home away from home. “Je and I love color, and we
have a very colorful house,” says Cynthia. “I wanted to add color that was fun, but also relaxing.” They ended up using pops of color inspired by Pendleton’s iconic Glacier National Park blanket. The couple had to be careful to not add things that would add too much weight, so they used lightweight rugs, blankets and pillows for added color and warmth.
They used tapestry signage as artwork so they could adhere it to the walls without nails, and they hung brightly colored hooks and cubbies where they could store fun books and display colorful and func-
“Everything needed to have form and function. With little space to work with, we have to be smart about what we display and how we display it.”
tional objects. “Everything needed to have form and function,” says Cynthia. “With little space to work with, we have to be smart about what we display and how we display it.” The teen’s bunks have fabric cubbies that are loaded with nature journals, art supplies, colorful ashlights, and thriller novels like In the Woods by Tana French. Throw pillows feature their favorite national parks, and the family charts their travels on a giant map on the wall with push pins.
For these veteran campers, food is a big part of the camper experience. Having a small kitchen at their disposal has really upped their food prep game, but they still love the simpler camp re meals. “We still enjoy doing foil packet meals on the re,” says Je . “One of our favorites is smoked sausage, onions, potatoes and peppers.” When it comes to dessert, the classic s’more is still a go-to, but sometimes they add an extra spin and make a big s’mores tray with unique toppings.
The Reeds hit up campsites and national parks all over Missouri and well beyond. “We recently went to Nashville and stayed at Seven Points Campground at Percy Priest Lake,” says Je . “It was an amazing campsite overlooking the lake, and we had so much fun hanging out in Nashville during the day and then returning to our beautiful view of the lake.”
With a new camper and lots of free weekends, this is just the beginning for the Reed family as they adventure on the open road. “We are looking forward to exploring the western states, especially Utah,” says Je . “Our daughter is excited about seeing the Grand Canyon and Mesa Verde soon.”
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
IT WAS IN 2017 WHEN Joyce Chalmers and her husband decided to come back to their Missouri roots and nd a home in the area. “My husband was from Spring eld and always wanted to return,” says Chalmers. He had missed the four seasons after so many years moving around and 30 years living in California. Joyce herself is also from Missouri, so she liked the idea of moving back. The patio of her charming home in Millwood was a feature they both really loved, and they had dreams of entertaining friends and family in the space.
The view from the porch is beautiful year-round, with boxwoods and arborvitae anchoring the space. During the fall months sun owers tower above the garden, creating pops of sunshine yellow. “This year, with the sun owers, there have been more yellow birds coming and eating the sun ower seeds,” says Chalmers. “They make great photos, but you have to be quick!” In the winter, it’s the pansies that Chalmers loves, especially when they survive a cold snap and peek out from under the snow. During the spring and summer months, Chalmers grows herbs. There’s plenty of wildlife to observe too. “What I really love is anticipating
and watching the life cycles of the monarchs on the milkweed,” says Chalmers. “From the tiny white specks of their eggs to the little white caterpillars they grow into, then to the large green caterpillars with voracious appetites devouring the leaves and owers of the milkweed.”
Chalmers especially enjoys early fall on her porch and is reminded of a eld of sunowers she saw on a trip once. “While driving through Italy years ago, we saw elds of sun owers where every ower turned its head to follow the warmth and light of the sun,” says Chalmers. “The sun ower is now my faith ower, reminding me to follow Jesus, the light and warmth of God’s love.” Decorating her porch and her home for fall is a must. Sun ower wreaths pop up on her doors, and plenty of pumpkins and mums gather around her porch and garden for added fall color and cozy charm. It’s easy to feel snug and warm on a cool fall day on Chalmer’s porch. “My favorite time on the porch is when it is raining,” says Chalmers.
Enjoy the amazing avors of garlic all year long by planting your own at-home crop right now.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
If you enjoy easy-to-grow, low-maintenance crops, then planting garlic in your garden is a must. Garlic cloves like to be planted in cooler weather. Plant yours in the fall, and you’ll be clipping tender garlic scapes by spring and harvesting loads of garlic by summer. If you’re on board with growing garlic, then now’s the time to start making a planting plan. Garlic requires six to eight weeks of cool weather, so you can plant your cloves from now until the end of November. “I plant my cloves with the butt down about 3 inches deep in a handful of compost, keeping them about 5 inches apart,” says Master Gardener Siw Shauni Hauger.
Make sure it’s a place that won’t be disturbed because garlic takes up to eight months to mature. “I usually plant two batches a year,” says Hauger.
When spring hits you’ll notice curly tendrils coming out of your garlic. These are known as garlic scapes, and harvesting the scape as it begins to curl under will help the plant put its energy into developing a larger bulb. Then watch your plants for clues on when to harvest. “I harvest my bulbs when the greens start wilting in late summer, “ says Hauger. You can leave your smaller cloves in the ground and wait for them to get bigger, and you can harvest some of your garlic just to plant again in the next season. The great thing about adding garlic to your garden is that it doesn’t take up that much space. It grows very vertically and close together. Try not to water right before your harvest because garlic doesn’t like to be soggy.
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ONE SAVVY COUPLE ROLLS UP THEIR SLEEVES AND TURNS A MAXIMALIST MID-CENTURY HOME INTO AN EARTHY FAMILY RETREAT.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
WHEN HUSBAND AND WIFE duo Brett Edwards and Dayle Duggins happened upon a 1964 mid-century modern home in Southern Hills, they knew they had to take a chance on it. “We had always wanted to live in Southern Hills, and we knew we wanted a ranch-style home,” says Duggins.” This was fall of 2022 and the beginning of what would soon lead to a long road of do-it-yourself renovations. “The timing was really terrible,” says Duggins. “I had just had hip surgery and we were about to have our first baby.” Luckily, Edwards is a construction
manager by trade and took the lead in rethinking the home—as well as a lot of the hard, laborious tasks.
There were so many features of the home that the couple loved. The living area had beautiful beams, brick floors and a large fireplace. “That was probably the room that sold us on the house,” says Duggins. “Plus, the house just had great bones.”
Other big draws were the grass cloth wallcoverings and a retro bathroom with the original yellow tile and some really fun wallpaper. “When we purchased the home, it was very maximalist,” says Edwards. “But we really liked the layout.” The home was designed by architect Joe Amsphacher, who also designed Glendale and Kickapoo High Schools.
The Renovation Process
The couple moved into Edwards’ parents’ house during the renovation. They worked tirelessly to make the house their home, all while both were working full-time jobs and Duggins was pregnant. “We did all the demo ourselves, and Brett did a lot of the framing work,” says Duggins. They also did the majority of the painting and laid a lot of the flooring. Edwards reworked the kitchen layout himself to add a large island in place of the peninsula. They also had new custom cabinets built in the kitchen and their laundry room. The wood beams were refinished by Edwards and took three weeks to complete. “I tried to hire someone to refinish them for us, but no one wanted to do it,” says Edwards. “That’s three weeks of my life I’ll never get back!”
The Style
When it came down to finding their own style for the home, Duggins and Edwards
“I wanted it to have a retro feel, but still be suitable for modern living.”
looked toward Pinterest for inspiration. “We wanted it to be a little Scandinavian-inspired,” says Duggins. “We looked for warm, earthy and natural-feeling finishes.” The couple steered away from anything too mainstream. They also pulled inspiration from their travels and from stylish hotels they had stayed in. “I wanted it to have a retro feel, but still be suitable for modern living,” says Edwards. Another big goal they had for their home was to create a cohesive feel throughout. They wanted to keep the brick flooring, so they needed to coordinate other finishes and flooring with that. Terrazzo flooring was chosen for the kitchen, along with lighter toned woods and creamy white finishes.
When the couple finally moved into the home a year later (September of 2023), it was no longer just the two of them. Their daughter, Campbell (now 11 months), had been born, so they moved in as a new family of three. “It was a mad dash to the end,” says Duggins. “All the cleaning and moving, it was crazy.” The couple has learned a lot through the whole renovation process. “We questioned ourselves a lot and have some regrets,” says Edwards. “But all in all we are very happy with how things have turned out.” The couple hopes to tackle some exterior projects in the future, like painting and landscaping. “It’s all a work in progress,” says Duggins.
WHEN LANEY VIVO MOVED toHollister, she didn’t know anyone in the small town, but she knew she wanted to open up a ower boutique where she could use her unique talents and share her passion for organic and garden-style oral arrangements. The Stemmery Flowers & Antiques opened to the public on November 17, 2022, and what has followed has been a dream come true for Vivo. “When I opened the ower shop, I didn’t realize how powerful the support of a community could be,” says Vivo. “It didn’t take long to feel welcomed into the community here.”
Today, The Stemmery is much more than just a ower shop, o ering customers curated houseplants, a selection of antiques, candles, garden accessories, journals, sweets and local art.
Vivo’s oral arrangements, however, remain at the core of her bustling business. “I curate a lot of my product through Missouri Flower Exchange and other local growers,” says Vivo. “My designs have a vibe of a vin-
tage garden.” When designing, her goal is to create something unique and one-ofa-kind each time. Fall is a favorite time of year for arrangements. “I use a lot of different types of grasses, pampas blooms and terracotta color orals during this time of year,” says Vivo.
The Stemmery also o ers events throughout the year. One of the most popular is their terrarium workshop. It gives guided instruction on the care of di erent types of plants and teaches how to create a space for them in a glass container. Workshops include a glass container, your choice of up to three plants, potting mix, moss, several decorative elements and care instructions. “The terrarium workshop is set up as a terrarium bar with all the items needed to be creative,” says Vivo. Guests can attend one of The Stemmery’s scheduled workshops, or guests can plan their own private event. Recently, The Stemmery created an outdoor private terrarium bar as part of a bridal shower. Guests snacked on locally made charcuterie boards and cookies while designing their own unique keepsakes.
For the Autumn Terrarium workshop, Vivo is hosting a group of women in her community. One of her passions is bringing women together. “I am a strong believer in strength in numbers,” says
Vivo. “I love being able to o er a peaceful boutique-like environment for women to gather and explore their creativity.” Vivo enjoys o ering a large lineup of creative workshops to the Hollister and Branson community, including oral design (luxury vase arrangement and luxury hand-tied bouquets), kokedama (moss ball plants), open and closed terrarium, semi-hydroponic planting, the art of ower pressing and oral painting. There are ladies’ night out events and open houses.
Soon The Stemmery and Vivo will get some extra help at the shop as Vivo’s daughter Emalee Louise joins the team. “My vision when opening The Stemmery was to eventually run the shop with her, not just as a mother/daughter business but also as a friend and business partner,” says Vivo. Now that Emalee Louise has moved here, Vivo can work and create alongside her—changing her business’s “I” to “we.”
For more information on how to sign up for one of The Stemmery’s workshops, follow them on social media (@ owersbythestemmery) and check out their website at owersbythestemmery.com.
When everything is on the line, you’d go anywhere for the care you need. But the bene ts of being close to home are invaluable. These local providers o er specialized treatments and compassionate care right here in 417-land.
The Spring eld Neurological and Spine Institute (SNSI) at CoxHealth is a leading medical facility specializing in the treatment of brain, spinal and peripheral nerve disorders. With a strong commitment to providing exceptional care, SNSI’s primary objective is to enhance the quality of life for their patients. The institute boasts a highly trained team, skilled in the most advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments for brain and spine disorders, including cancers. This unique combination of extensive experience, cutting-edge expertise and genuine compassion fosters a deep sense of trust and con dence among patients in the care they receive at SNSI. SNSI is housed within the Jared Neuroscience Center (JNC) at CoxHealth,
a state-of-the-art facility that embodies a multidisciplinary approach to patient care. The JNC is designed to offer the highest level of treatment, bringing together a team of boardcerti ed and fellowship-trained neurosurgeons, physiatrists and an interventional neuro-radiologist. This team collaborates closely with experts in neurology, neuropsychology and the JNC Imaging Center, all within a single facility. The integrated approach of these professionals ensures that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care tailored to their speci c needs.
With more than 240 years of combined experience, SNSI has established itself as one of the Midwest region’s premier neurosurgical practices. The institute’s dedication to improving the health of the communities it serves is evident in every aspect of their work. Whether addressing complex neurological conditions or providing routine care, the team at SNSI strives to make a positive impact on the lives of their patients.
To schedule an appointment, call 417-885-3888 or visit their website, spring eldneurologocal.com. “Where experience matters.”
ME. SEMINOLE, SUITE 310 SPRINGFIELD
ercy Clinic Breast Surgery serves those diagnosed or at high risk for breast cancer, as well as non-cancerous breast disease. As part of the Mercy Cancer Care team, they work closely with Mercy breast radiologists, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists in helping patients through diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. They offer the latest advanced technology, including wireless breast localization and breast MRI, and participate in clinical research to bring you the most advanced treatment available.
For those with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, Mercy Clinic Breast Surgery offers a High-Risk Breast Clinic to help patients learn earlier. Patients with risk may be eligible for additional high-risk screenings including a breast MRI and genetic testing, all offered onsite with the team. Women seeking second opinions for breast problems may also contact the medical experts at this clinic.
Mercy Clinic Breast Surgery offers a “one-stop” healing experience that treats the whole person—body, mind and spirit. From high-risk care to surgery to chemotherapy to radiation to patient navigation and spiritual care, their team is here for you—any way you need them.
Healthy Skin Begins at Swann Dermatology Partners. Founded by Dr. Michael Swann, Swann Dermatology Partners stands as the premier skin cancer center in 417-land, offering unparalleled expertise in both surgical and cosmetic dermatology. With state-of-the-art modalities and a commitment to excellence, the center is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive care, ensuring optimal cure rates and aesthetic outcomes. Dr. Swann, nationally recognized for his pro ciency in Mohs micrographic surgery and complex facial reconstruction, leads a team of exceptional specialists. His partners, Dr. Brett Neill and Dr. Michael Kremer, bring a wealth of knowledge and a meticulous approach to skin cancer treatment. Dr. Neill is among a select few Mohs surgeons in the country to have completed dual elite fellowships in Mohs surgery and dermatologic oncology. Dr. Kremer, a board-certi ed dermatologist, offers extensive expertise in treating skin cancer and other medical skin disorders, adding a holistic perspective to the team’s approach. The team at Swann Dermatology Partners includes highly skilled dermatology physician assistants, nurse practitioners, radiation therapists, histotechnicians and nurses, all committed to delivering cutting-edge skin cancer treatments in the Ozarks. These world-class professionals share a singular goal: to safeguard your skin with the highest standard of care.
CHARLES E. WOODALL, III, MD, MSC, FACS
417-875-3625 | FERRELLDUNCAN.COM
1001 E. PRIMROSE ST., SPRINGFIELD
Dr. Charles Woodall is a surgical oncologist and surgical endoscopist who has been a vital part of CoxHealth for 15 years. A native of southwest Missouri, Dr. Woodall recognized the need for his unique expertise in the region, being the only specialist between St. Louis and Little Rock trained in both surgical oncology and endoscopy. He treats a range of advanced cancers, including pancreatic cancer and melanoma, and aims to minimize patient visits by coordinating necessary scans and labs in one appointment.
Dr. Woodall is actively involved in his community, serving on the CoxHealth Foundation board and leading the CRAP Party fundraiser for colon cancer prevention.
417-882-4880 | OHACLINIC.COM
3850 S. NATIONAL, SUITE 600, SPRINGFIELD 802 HIGHWAY 60, MONETT 1228 DEADRA DR., LEBANON
Oncology Hematology Associates (OHA) has been a cornerstone of compassionate cancer care for over four decades. OHA’s Board-certi ed physicians are experts in providing their patients with advanced cancer treatments including specialized breast cancer treatment, hormonal-based therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and other targeted therapies.
Patients also bene t from a dedicated support team of dietitians and care coordinators, who support them every step of the way, and innovative solutions like the DigniCap Cooling System for hair loss prevention and access to the latest clinical trials.
OHA: Where advanced oncology meets personalized care. Discover a new level of hope.
Southwest Audio Visual Inc. is highly experienced at providing audio/visual services for all types of events, from providing A-V equipment that clients can set up themselves, such as projectors, projection screens, sound systems and event lighting, to completely staging events with sound, video, stage and lighting delivered and fully set-up, including operation of the A-V equipment by our skilled technicians. Our Skyvision mobile LED screens are perfect for outdoor events any time of day. New this year is our mobile stage trailer with fold out 24x20 stage and covered top.
Imagine a morning in the Ozarks: e sun rises over rolling hills, casting a golden glow across sparkling streams and lush forests. e air is fresh and crisp, and the beauty of our natural landscapes invites us to explore and enjoy them.
Preservation and conservation of these scenic places are not just lofty ideals. ey are essential to maintaining the health and beauty of the places we cherish. Our actions today ensure that future generations can experience the same clear waters, vibrant prairies and diverse wildlife that we enjoy today.
When others step up to conserve our environment, they are working to keep these landscapes pristine and accessible for everyone. Whether it’s through cleaning up rivers, protecting prairies or managing wildlife habitats, their e orts help preserve the very essence of what makes our region unique. Read on to learn about the work being done to preserve our natural landscapes and resources and how you can get involved. en plan your perfect day out exploring these wonders of the Ozarks.
BY VIVIAN WHEELER
HERE IN THE OZARKS, it can be easy to take water for granted. There are clear streams, cold springs and beautiful lakes all over the region. We’re lucky enough to have one of the most abundant groundwater supplies in the country, and our region’s unique geography means much of that water makes its way to the surface. Over thousands of years, the Spring eld aquifer has created cracks and crevices in the soft dolomite and limestone rocks, allowing pathways for water to ow topside, where we get to use and enjoy it.
Although the Ozarks has abundant and clean water, there’s a lot of work that goes into protecting it and ensuring it remains that way. According to Michael Kromrey, the executive director of the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks, the two macro issues facing our water systems are population growth and climate change.
To understand the real-world impact of these issues, let’s turn back the clock to the early 1990s. Back then, there was a series of algae blooms in Table Rock Lake. Speci cally, the
Spring-fed rivers bring beauty—and float trip opportunities—to every corner of the Ozarks.
Volunteer for a Cleanup
Participate in James River Basin Partnership’s major cleanup events like River Rescue and the Earth Day cleanup at Lake Spring eld. To see even more opportunities, sign up for the JRBP newsletter. They send out a list of ways to get involved every quarter. You can sign up on the website, jamesriverbasin.com.
Become a Sustainer
If you’re short on time, consider becoming a Watershed Sustainer and supporting clean water through automatic monthly or yearly donations. Join at watershedcommittee.org.
BY
James River arm of Table Rock Lake.
Algae blooms are detrimental to the health of water. “When you have an algae bloom, that algae will eventually die. And when it dies, the process of decomposition sucks all the oxygen out of the water,” says Brent Stock, executive director of the James River Basin Partnership (JRBP). These algae blooms are the reason the JRBP was formed in 1997. “Since then we’ve seen a pretty dramatic transformation in water quality in the James River,” says Stock. Stock credits those improvements mainly to increased regulation and improvements to point-source pollution—pollution from a speci c source, such as a feedlot or water treatment facility.
Today, the organization continues its mission of improving and protecting the water quality of the springs, streams, rivers and lakes in the James River watershed, which consists of almost a million acres of land. The JRBP does this through a variety of initiatives, including educational programs, river cleanups, septic system management and methods for riparian corridor protection.
Riparian corridors are vegetated borders along water sources, and they play a huge role in water quality in both our rivers and our lakes. Take for example Table Rock Lake. The lake was built as a reservoir by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1959. One of the biggest challenges the Corps faces
is balancing recreation with conservation. As as development increases, the need for riparian corridors becomes more important. This is why the Corps has building guidelines in place for Table Rock Lake. Often people want to cut down trees for a better view or clear cut their lawns all the way to the water’s edge. But these actions destroy the natural vegetation that helps secure the shoreline, lter pollutants and prevent erosion. “We have to make sure we’re going to give the region another 50 years of use, if not longer, at Table Rock Lake,” says Townsend.—Vivian Wheeler
Enjoy the crystal-clear rivers of the Ozarks with these three essential fall oat trips.
Vistas Around Every Bend
Waterway: Bu alo National River
Float: Tyler Bend to South Maumee
Why You’ll Love It: Along this 17.5-mile float, the river’s trademark towering blu s line the waterway and are accented by gorgeous fall color.
Spring-fed Scenery
Waterway: Current River
Float: Akers Ferry to Pulltite
Why You’ll Love It: The water is clear and floatable year-round hanks to numerous freshwater springs that feed into the Current River—which is part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. You can even float your canoe right up to the opening of Cave Spring!
Waterway: Niangua River
Float: Bennett Spring to Mountain Creek
Dave Woods is the senior scientist at Ozarks Underground Laboratory and the executive director of the Tumbling Creek Cave Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting the cave it’s named a er.
How did you become involved?
“I was working for the Missouri Department of Conservation. Each endangered species in the state gets assigned a state recovery lead. I was asked to be the state recovery lead for the Tumbling Creek cave snail. I really fell in love with the property in the cave. And so I worked down here as a state employee, doing snail surveys and conservation projects for about eight years.
Tom Aley (founder of Tumbling Creek Cave Foundation) o ered me a position in 2020.”
What makes this cave special?
“It’s the most biodiverse cave west of the Mississippi. We’ve documented about 118 species in the cave. It’s also the only place in the world where the endangered Tumbling Creek cave snail lives. A historical survey estimated the snail population to be about 15,000. By the late ’90s it was down to 150. Now it’s between 500 and 1,000.”
Tell us about the Foundation?
ONLINE
Visit 417mag.com to read about how Missouri’s vast cave system ts into the mix. Also online: Extended stories about water, prairies, wildlife and more.
Why You’ll Love It: In addition to being surrounded by fall color and lighter crowds than in the summer, you can also reel in a few fish during your day on the water. The Niangua is a great fishing destination, and the hatchery at nearby Bennett Spring State Park makes a great side trip.—Katie Pollock Estes
“There’s about a nine square mile area that if precipitation falls on that area, it could end up in our cave. There’s a lot of land management that’s required on those acres to protect the cave and also to protect the surface ecosystems.”—Vivian Wheeler
TAKING A LOOK AT MISSOURI TODAY, YOU WOULDN’T think that once upon a time, nearly a third of our state was covered in prairie. “There used to be 15,000,000 acres of prairie in our state,” says Carol Davit, the executive director of the Missouri Prairie Foundation. “Today we have fewer than 45,000 acres of unplowed prairie.” Davit has been working to protect Missouri’s remaining prairie since 1996, when she started as a volunteer for the organization, but her love of nature and passion for conservation began much earlier.
Davit grew up on the grounds of Shaw Nature Reserve, which is about 40 minutes southwest of St. Louis, where both of her parents worked. Davit’s father was a naturalist at the reserve. Part of his job included collecting seeds from prairie remnants, propagating them, and planting them to create new prairie. Her mother did a variety of jobs, including germinating and propagating rare plants. Considering her upbringing, it’s easy to see how Davit has become such a passionate advocate for Missouri prairie. “Prairies are so important to our economic—and therefore our cultural—history,” she says.
Prairie plants have incredibly deep root systems and every year a third of them die. Over thousands of years, those decaying roots created incredibly rich, nutrient-dense soil, which ultimately contributed to the demise of Missouri prairies. Due to the rich soil, much of our prairielands were converted to agricultural land, and with that came a loss of biodiversity.
Prairies contain incredible biodiversity. In 2020, botanist Brett Budach recorded 46 species within a 20-by-20 inch square at Penn-Sylvania Prairie, one of the prairies the foundation oversees. To Davit’s knowledge, this is a world record.
The Missouri Prairie Foundation works to preserve original, unplowed prairie while also establishing new planted prairies. Protecting prairies is not a passive task. “Prairie needs assertive stewardship,” says Davit. To help combat invasive species, the Foundation executes controlled burns over a third of their prairies each year. Additionally, the foundation promotes native species through its Grow Native! program. Grow Native! helps increase conservation awareness of native plants and their e ective use in urban, suburban and rural developed landscapes.
Protecting and preserving our prairies is no small task, but Davit chooses to see the glass as half-full. “We’ve lost so much, and it’s a staggering loss,” she says. “But we can also say ‘Isn’t it amazing that through all this human development in the past 200 years, these remnants exist?’ Let’s celebrate that they still exist and protect them.”—Vivian Wheeler
features vast tallgrass prairieland teeming with biodiversity.
Build a Butter y Garden Grow Native! has a free butter y garden design full of native plants on their website, grownative.org.
Whether you’re driving by to enjoy the view or trekking into the tall grasses, the protected and restored prairielands around southwest Missouri are home to abundant and varied wildlife and photo-worthy vistas.
Kickapoo Edge Prairie Garden
Nearest town: Spring eld
You can experience the work of the Missouri Prairie Foundation right here in 417-land at the Kickapoo Edge Prairie garden at the Springfield Botanical Garden. This small prairie garden contains more than 50 native species and is maintained using controlled burns.
La Petite Gem Prairie
Nearest town: Bolivar
You can view this Missouri-designated Natural Area as you walk or cycle along the Frisco Highline Trail. It’s located at Mile 32 of the trail and features 335 native plants that can explode with the colors of wildflowers during the spring and blow in the breeze all autumn long.
Prairie State Park
Nearest town: Mindenmines
There are vast swaths of tallgrasses and loads of native bird species here (plus designated walking paths that make it easy to explore). But the most majestic animals are in the resident bison herd. Visit the Regal Tallgrass Prairie Nature Center while you’re there. For more information about what to do at Prairie State Park, turn to p. 40.
Stony Point Prairie Conservation Area
Nearest town: Lockwood
In addition to 960 acres of prairie lands that are home to numerous types of native flora, this spot is also great for fishing at a handful of on-site ponds. Stony Point is part of an Audubon Society –designated “Important Bird Area.” Tons of birds live there, like the Greater Prairie Chicken, Eastern Meadowlark, short-eared owl and upland sandpiper.—Katie Pollock Estes
Josh Wisdom has a pretty darn cool job title. He’s a wildlife damage biologist. Essentially this means he tries to mitigate the friction between wild animals and humans, especially when it comes to bears. A er being nearly extirpated from the state in the 1900s, bears have seen a slow resurgence starting in the 1960s. We sat down with him to discuss the bear population in Missouri.
417 Magazine: What is the population of black bears in Missouri today?
JW: We have roughly 1,000 bears in Missouri, and we’re growing at a rate of 8% to 9% a year. Which means the bear population will essentially double every 10 years.
How can people prevent run-ins with bears?
JW: Bears are really just big raccoons. Whatever a raccoon would get into, is also what would attract a bear. So bird feeders, outdoor pet food, leaving a trash bag outside. All of these things could attract a bear to your house.
What should someone do if they encounter a bear?
JW: Make sure they know you’re there. If a bear stands up, it means they’re trying to figure out what you are and that’s a good time to wave your hands and yell. Give them plenty of space, but almost always if a bear knows you’re there, he’s going to be heading the other direction. Check out bearwise.org for more information.—Vivian Wheeler
WE SHARE THE OZARKS’ BEAUtiful spaceswith a lot of ora and fauna. The same places where we want to hike, boat and play are also home to unique animals. “If I were to sum it up in one sentence, the major issue facing our wildlife is folding human uses and needs into the landscape with wildlife uses and needs,” says Francis Skalicky, Missouri Department of Conservation’s southwest regional media specialist. We sat down with him to discuss our local wildlife, the issues impacting it, what’s being done to preserve it and how you can help.
Some of the local critters most in need of protection are native pollinators. Pollinators play a huge role in our economy. A 2010 Cornell University study found that the pollinating activities of insects contributed $29 billion each year to the U.S. agricultural economy.
So what’s the solution? We need to reduce the number of pesticides we use and increase the amount of native plants available to pollinators. Here’s where you come in. You can help lead the charge by incorporating native plants into your landscaping and gardens at home. “Whatever you plant in the way of native plants is more than these insects had before,” says Skalicky. “It’s that much more habitat. Your big elds of milkweed, we know those make a di erence, but your little ower gardens, the plants you have on the side of your driveway, they all make a di erence.”
Pollinators aren’t the only animals a ected by the lifestyles of the humans around them. Visit 417mag. com to read about other key issues a ecting local wildlife, like the Chronic Wasting Disease in deer, invasive aquatic hydrilla plants, and at-risk wild turkey habitats.—Vivian Wheeler
The Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation is based in Spring eld but has impact on the future of the whole region.
You’ve probably spent a day wandering Wonders of Wildlife, Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve or Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, but did you know that these spots are more than just local attractions? Preserving and protecting the natural beautify of these Ozarks hills and the world beyond is at the heart of the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation, which built and maintains these popular spots.
Of these three attractions, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park (Lampe) is the one that feels the most like an Ozarks
moment frozen in time. At 10,000 acres, it o ers plenty of space for the casual visitor to explore on foot or via bike, horseback or tram. Guests can sign up for guided fly fishing or wildlife tours or simply explore on their own, making a stop at the park’s Conservation and Education Center. But either way, this spot filled with sparkling streams, tumbling waterfalls and rocky blu s feels like a world apart—all of it protected and all of it pristine.
At Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve (Ridgedale), the sweeping views of Table Rock Lake and the hills beyond are irresistible—especially at sunset. The property’s cave and sinkhole give visitors a look at the e ect karst topography has on the region, while a sprawling golf course o ers a more manicured
view. Also on site is the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, an enormous private collection of Native American artifacts.
And finally, Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (Springfield) has been voted America’s Best Aquarium multiple times by USA Today readers. And although visitors can watch ocean creatures swim through the water in immersive displays at this 350,000-squarefoot museum, the aquarium is also grounded in the Ozarks with exhibits that bring to life the wildlife that live in our freshwater rivers and the sport of fishing. On the natural history side of the facility, beautifully produced 4-D dioramas show o wildlife from nearby and around the world using sensory e ects including sounds and smells.—Katie Pollock Estes
We can talk and write about trails all day—but experiencing them is a whole lot more fun! These Missouri and Northwest Arkansas trails come alive in the fall, with bursting color and beautiful views.
For a Trek on
Dirt 66 and Two Rivers Mountain Bike Park
One of the newest mountain biking trail systems in the Springfield area, Dirt 66 o ers 25 miles of natural-surface paths with views of the area all around Fellows Lake. Pick a loop, and go exploring! They range in length from 0.14 miles to 4.5 miles long. In nearby Highlandville, Two Rivers Mountain Bike Park features 14 miles of professionally designed trails that can be enjoyed by hikers as well as bikers.
The red trail at Busiek State Forest and Wildlife Area
If you live in Springfield, you can be on the red trail less than 30 minutes a er walking out your front door. The 3-mile loop passes the Carter Family Cemetery that’s more than 130 years old and at least one water crossing (wear waterproof boots). And every step of the way you’ll be engulfed in the changing colors of fall.
Pedestal Rocks Trail
At only 2.2 miles long, this hiking trail isn’t too strenuous—and the payo is excellent. You’ll get to gaze out over an expansive valley and see huge rock formations jutting up above the trees. It’s quite a sight any time of year, but it’s especially nice with a backdrop of orange leaves.—Katie Pollock Estes
ACROSS OUR REGION, THERE ARE hundreds of miles of trails. Gravel trails, dirt trails, concrete trails and asphalt trails criss-cross 417-land, and a lot of people assume that those trails are maintained by the city or county. Rather, they are funded, built and maintained by an ecosystem of stakeholders, made up of nonpro ts, governmental organizations and volunteers. For Alaina Grote, executive director of the nonpro t TrailSpring, the biggest obstacle her organization faces is a lack of education about how it all works. It takes a lot of di erent groups working together to maintain and grow our trail system here in the Ozarks. “Funding is de nitely a huge challenge, but if you don’t have collaboration, and if you don’t have coordination, then you can’t get anything done,” says John Montgomery, the interim director of Ozark Greenways.
Take for example the Dirt 66 project at Fellows Lake that was completed in the summer of 2022. The ultimate goal of Dirt 66, which is a TrailSpring initiative, is connecting 66-plus miles of multi-use trails around northern Spring eld, and the Fellows Lakes trails make up 26 miles of the project.
This project came to life thanks to a partnership between TrailSpring, City Utilities (CU) and Ozark Greenways. TrailSpring, which focuses on natural trails, handled the funding and oversaw the construction of the trails. Meanwhile, Ozark Greenways assisted with project management and is the trail coordinator. They also keep up with trail maintenance through a mix of sta and volunteers, funded by a combination of their annual budget and speci c grants. CU owns the trails, which are located on their property around Fellows Lake, a major source of drinking water for the community.
Each group brings something to the tablet. So, what’s on the horizon?
The Ozark Greenways is currently focused on the Chadwick Flyer Trail, which will connect Sunshine Street in Spring eld to the Ozark Community Center in Christian County. They are working with the City of Spring eld, who is working with BNSF Railway to obtain land from a former railroad. They hope for money from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to complete the project. If all goes to plan, the trail will be 12 miles long and will be completed in 2026.
The City of Spring eld is also spearheading exciting projects. They were recently awarded a $25 million RAISE grant that will fund an extension of the Wilson’s Creek Greenway, Jordan Creek Greenway and Trail of Tears Greenway.
For TrailSpring, they are continuing to work on their Dirt 66 project—as well as a pump track project. “A pump track is kind of like a small bike park,” says Grote. “Usually it’s in an urban space, which is what we’re going for. Not everybody has the resources to get a mountain bike or reliable transportation to get all the way out to Fellows Lake or Two Rivers. So we wanted to focus on bringing a little bit of the outdoors to a more main part of town.”—Vivian Wheeler
Adopt a Trail
Ozark Greenways has an Adopt-a-Trail program at Fellows Lake where people can get engaged on a long term basis on managing a speci c section of that trail and doing that annually. Find more info at ozarkgreenways.org.
Every year, Springfield Public Schools adds new graduates to its growing Hall of Fame list. This year’s honorees have dedicated their lives to nurturing others and elevating their community, both in their professions and in their volunteer work. The two were selected because they have distinguished themselves in ways that will inspire current and future SPS students.
BY TERESA BLEDSOE
Springfield Public Schools’ 15th annual Hall of Fame event is Friday, October 4. The SPS alumni being inducted are community leader and retired educator Dr. Denise Fredrick and community volunteer and mentor Billy Gene Cooper. For tickets or more information, visit sps.org/hallo ame.
STANDING ON the Hillcrest High School campus in August 2020, Denise Fredrick experienced a full-circle moment. As a member of the Spring eld Public Schools Board of Education, she was celebrating the beginning of a $25 million dollar renovation to her alma mater. She couldn’t help but think about being a student there in the 1970s and how her teachers inspired her to follow a path that led to this and many other high points in her life and career.
“Their positive in uence extended far into my future by inspiring my career choice to become an educator and in general, my overall outlook on life,” Fredrick says. “I attribute many of my achievements to the encouragement and guidance I received from great teachers.”
Fredrick joined SPS in 1984 as a science teacher at Kickapoo High School. She wanted to inspire her students to love learning and strive for their goals just like her teachers had done.
Along the way, she distinguished herself as an outstanding educator and received multiple honors including SPS Teacher of the Year, National Milken Educator award, Missouri State University Outstanding Young Alumni and Science Teachers of Missouri Presidential Citation.
These awards are meaningful to Fredrick, but she says relationships with students are her greatest reward. “My favorite aspect of teaching is when former students tell me I made a di erence in their life,” she says.
After serving as a classroom teacher for 16 years, Fredrick applied her skills and knowledge to positively impact students as a district leader in the
areas of curriculum, federal programs, accountability and quality improvement until she retired in 2008. Friends encouraged her to apply her wealth of experience in public education to serving on the school board. She was elected in 2011 and served for 12 years, including seven years as president or vice president. During this time, the passage of two bond proposals, which funded $388 million in improvements at schools district-wide, was one of the most signi cant achievements. In January 2023, Fredrick helped cut the ribbon to celebrate the completion of the Hillcrest renovation. Reconstruction of Reed Academy, where she also attended as a student, will be completed in 2026. “Seeing this investment in improving every school in the district, especially our northside schools, makes me proud of our school district and our community,” she says.
“I attribute many of my achievements to the encouragement and guidance I received from these great teachers.”
Her advocacy on behalf of children and her community doesn’t stop with SPS. Fredrick has led as a member of the 2024 United Way Campaign Cabinet and the advisory board for Missouri State University’s McQueary College of Human and Health Services. She volunteered with Spring eld’s Citizens Commission on Community Investment, Greene County Domestic Violence Board, Mayor’s Commission on Children and Missouri Success-Ready Student Work Group.
WHEN HE started picking cotton at the age of ve, Billy Gene Cooper knew that he would have to work harder than most people during his lifetime to overcome challenges. While he has faced poverty, discrimination, unemployment and health problems, Cooper has focused on nding ways to help others. At the age of 24, Cooper lost his job when he was diagnosed with epilepsy. He and his wife had just purchased a home and were expecting their rst child. He was discouraged and feared he wouldn’t be able to work in the future, but his wife encouraged him to participate in vocational rehabilitation. Through that process he met Anna McQuerter, who told him she could help him reach his goals. “For four years, she mentored me,” he says. “When I had a problem, I could just show up at her o ce and she would help. She was one of the rst people who said ‘yes’ to me, and I decided I wanted to be like her.”
After earning a bachelor’s degree, Cooper worked for 28 years as a workforce development specialist, guiding others in their journey to success. “I believe a person’s past doesn’t always determine who they are going to be in the future,” Cooper says. “I wanted to get to know each person and let them know they mattered.” His e orts earned him the honor of Missouri’s Workforce Development Professional of the Year.
In addition to a long professional career, Cooper has been a dedicated volunteer in the community. He and his wife, Dora, were named 2010 Volunteers of the Year by Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing
Arts. He has volunteered for 31 years welcoming patrons to shows at the theater.
He also volunteers at the Gillioz Theatre, a place that has special meaning to him because he met his wife there. They were both sophomores at Central High School and began dating right away. The relationship caused problems for Cooper at work and school because Dora was white. “We had a hard time,” Cooper says. “At that time, it was just not acceptable for people of di erent races to be together.”
The couple has been married for more than 50 years, and Cooper says he tries to maintain a positive attitude about the challenges he has faced. “People were just trying to maintain the status quo. I have no anger because I realized that no matter what happened in the past, we can move on and make the best of the present instead of being angry for the rest of our lives.”
Cooper does his part to be a positive force by focusing on others. Even though he is currently battling cancer, he cares for an elderly friend. He and his wife also raised their niece, who had signi cant medical needs, including brain surgery.
“I wanted to get to know each person and let them know they mattered.”
All the while, he made time to coach and mentor young athletes through the Boys and Girls Clubs for 40 years. “I love kids and I love sports. There is nothing like taking a group of kids who don’t know each other and may never have played a sport and teaching them to become a team,” Cooper explains.
Central High School, Class of 1968
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.
At Americare, there is a saying: “Find Yourself in a Happier Place® . ” This isn’t just a slogan—it’s the mission. Americare’s person-centered approach makes a real difference in the lives of residents, their families and employees. Each day, the team strives 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. Family values are woven into everything they do—from the food they proudly serve to the gracious amenities and high-quality professional nursing care provided to those in need. They call it Hometown Hospitality®
Does it have an impact? Absolutely. In a national survey, residents at Americare were 12% more satis ed than those in other senior living communities. It’s no wonder U.S. News awarded Americare the title of Best Assisted Living. It’s also why Americare continues to be recognized as a Best Place to Work.
Experience it for yourself by visiting one of their six Spring eld-area senior living communities. Americare is eager to show how their vast experience, resources and compassion can help you Find Yourself in a Happier Place.
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 offer a comprehensive range of services to meet diverse needs. Their specialized memory care units* are designed to support individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, ensuring safety and comfort. Those in need of rehabilitation, inpatient services offer physical, occupational and speech therapies to promote recovery and well-being.
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, Buffalo, El Dorado Springs, and Stockton, Missouri. Citizens Memorial is there to help navigate the journey with compassion and expertise.
At Excel Dental, they understand that a healthy smile and a youthful appearance are essential as we age. Their expert dental team provides comprehensive care that integrates advanced dental technology with innovative facial treatments to meet your unique needs.
Their cutting-edge salivary diagnostics represent a breakthrough in dental care. By analyzing your saliva, they can identify speci c bacteria, yeast and viruses that may be causing or contributing to health issues. This early detection allows them to address potential problems such as cavities and gum disease before they become signi cant concerns.
In addition to their advanced diagnostic tools, they now offer rejuvenating facial injectables, including Botox and dermal llers. These treatments help smooth wrinkles, restore lost volume and enhance your facial aesthetics, giving you a refreshed and con dent look that complements your vibrant smile.
Their state-of-the-art facility is designed with your comfort in mind, blending the latest dental technology with aesthetic enhancements. They create personalized care plans focused on prevention, restoration, and rejuvenation to ensure you look and feel your best.
You can schedule an appointment today to experience your best smile—including their innovative salivary diagnostics and revitalizing facial treatments. At Excel Dental, your health and beauty are their top priorities. Call now to book your visit and join their family of satis ed smiles!
For over 35 years, TLC Properties has prioritized the resident experience at each of its 30 properties spanning across four states. TLC Properties already offers 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 offers lifestyle concierge services from a team residents already know and can count on. It is available to offer 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. Everything you need to simplify your life! To learn more about FLEX Services, visit tlc ex.com.
For nearly 40 years, Mercer Advisors has helped families across the country amplify and simplify their nancial lives by integrating expertise in nancial planning, investment management, tax planning and preparation, estate planning, insurance solutions, trustee services and more, all managed by a single team.
What can you expect from Mercer Advisors?
• A uni ed in-house team of advisors, planners, investors, accountants and estate strategists that designs and executes your nancial plan.
• A hand-picked advisor who is focused on serving you, not on nding new clients.
• An institutional-grade portfolio tailored for each client and managed by a team of more than 100 investment professionals.
• An independent, national duciary legally obligated to always act in your best interest.
Whether you have $300,000 or $300,000,000, we have a comprehensive wealth management solution for you. Contact Mercer Advisors to learn why your nances work better when they work together.
Simmons Private Wealth is a premier provider of trust, investment management and duciary services. The team provides a comprehensive approach to wealth management, which includes structuring client portfolios to meet nancial goals, personalized nancial plans and estate planning and administration. One of the keys to success is focusing on building strong, long-term client relationships. Taking the time to understand the values of each client’s goals and concerns is crucial as it fosters trust in the advice and services that clients receive.
The team helps bring peace of mind to protect the wealth clients have built and optimize strategies to ensure it lasts beyond their lifetimes while serving as trustees. Each team member’s expertise is leveraged to provide clients with the best possible advice and solutions. This includes bringing together tax professionals and estate planning attorneys, among other professionals, to ensure all aspects of a client’s nancial life are properly coordinated. The team also provides investment solutions to foundations and endowments.
Simmons Private Wealth is backed by Simmons Bank, which holds $27 billion in assets across six states in the Midwest. The private wealth division manages roughly $6.5 billion, with approximately $1.7 billion of client assets managed from the Spring eld of ce.
BY
417-397-3200 | HUBHEARING.COM
2731 E. BATTLEFIELD RD., SPRINGFIELD
Hub Hearing provides comprehensive hearing health services, including diagnostic testing, aural rehabilitation, hearing aid programming and tting, hearing conservation education, tinnitus treatment and individualized care plans tailored to each patient’s needs. With nearly a decade of experience, their team prioritizes education, clinical excellence and transparent communication. They are dedicated to helping individuals stay connected with their friends, family and community by addressing hearing loss early, fostering long-term patient relationships and offering concierge-style service. Hub Hearing offers free diagnostic services and aims to empower its patients with clearer conversations and more ful lling daily experiences.
417-868-8200 | OZARKSELDERLAW.COM
2838 S. INGRAM MILL RD. SUITE 100, SPRINGFIELD
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 o ces across Southwest Missouri, Ozarks Elder Law o ers free consultations, o ering guidance and peace of mind for all. Serving as a steadfast ally, they help shape legacies re ecting values, ensuring smooth execution while skillfully navigating families through future planning intricacies.
TURN THE PAGE TO FIND PIPING HOT DINING NEWS AND SOME EXTRADELICIOUS OZARKS EATS.
ARE YOU READY TO DIG INTO THE YUMMIEST STUFF AROUND? LET’S EAT!
DIG IN!
You’ll feel like you’re on a tropical vacation at Palm & Paddle, a Caribbean-inspired restaurant on one of the busiest streets in town. BY JOY
ROBERTSON
THE WORDS PALM AND paddle alone tend to evoke thoughts of sand and surf, fruity drinks and tropical breezes. A laid-back, coastal escape isn’t something I’d expect to nd on south Campbell Avenue since this ultra-busy stretch of road is usually a place I try to escape from. But I had my heart set on some spicy Caribbean-style food, so my husband and I ventured over to Palm & Paddle Grille on a midweek evening to check it out.
The towering gray and white palm and paddle logo brings a boat dock feel to the two-story building with outdoor dining spaces on both levels. I love a good patio, so this was encouraging from the get-go. The interior continued the coastal theme with wrap around windows, ocean blue wainscoting and tables with woven rattan and bamboo-style chairs. Several tables were occupied both inside and out, including a group of 15 or so celebrating an occasion. The vibe was happy, and the sta was eager to describe menu items and fetch drinks.
I was torn on what to start with, but I ordered the Dominican Manhattan made with rum, orange curacao and a house made Caribbean falernum syrup that I now want to drizzle on literally everything. It’s a dreamy mix of lime, sugar and spices like cinnamon and cloves. Swirled with a large single cube of ice, an orange slice and a cherry, it made the Manhattan feel like a walk on a sunset beach. My husband sipped the Club Mango, a Cuban-style daiquiri on
2515 S. Campbell Ave., Suite 400, Springfield 417-605-7500, palmandpaddlegrille.com Open daily, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. $$
Try the ahi tuna bowl, coconut shrimp, grilled habanero chicken entree and club mango cocktail.
ice with house made mango puree. O to a good start for sure!
I can never pass up coconut shrimp and didn’t on this occasion either. Six butteried shrimp arrived light, crispy and just the right temperature with a sweet chili orange-lime sauce for dipping. I loved everything about this appetizer and resisted the temptation to order a second one.
The menu made it a challenge to decide on an entrée. I chose the Ahi Tuna Island Bowl with seared tuna slices on rice, surrounded by roasted corn, pickled onion, pineapple chunks, diced mango, cucumber and avocado with a drizzle of pepper sauce. The ahi was seared a bit much for my taste and needed some serious seasoning, but I enjoyed it nonetheless and couldn’t nish the whole bowl. My husband devoured the grilled mango-habanero chicken, which was a chicken breast topped with melted
jack cheese, bacon and green onion nished with a habanero sauce and a side of rice and seasoned black beans.
My biggest regret is that neither of us tried the jerk chicken. I watched as the blacken-seasoned bowls and tacos passed by us and was seriously tempted to order some to take home, but I would much rather enjoy it in-house, so I resisted. That’s something to look forward to on another visit, along with one of the many dessert o erings like the salted caramel plantains.
JAG’S LAWN AND LANDSCAPE provides a wide range of services, including fertilization and spraying, lawn and landscape maintenance and landscape transformations. JAG’s recently transformed a homeowner’s outdoor space, focusing on both functionality and aesthetics. The project aimed to simplify maintenance by removing outdated retaining walls and replacing them with fresh, green grass. Over a two-week period, the JAG’s team expertly dismantled the old timber retaining walls and lled the area with ll dirt to create a vibrant lawn.
The revitalization extended to the pool area, where they redesigned the landscaping to enhance the overall look and feel. A signi cant upgrade included the addition of irrigation to the existing system, ensuring the new grass would thrive. To complete the transformation, JAG’s installed outdoor lighting from FX Outdoor Lighting around the pool, creating a warm and inviting environment.
The homeowners were thrilled with the result and excited to enjoy their updated outdoor space. The project not only improved the property’s appearance but also made it more functional and easier to maintain, re ecting JAG’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Head to Catrina’s Mexican Kitchen & Cantina for a fresh new cocktail, the Clara Mezcalita.
BY TESSA COOPER
CLARIFIED COCKTAILS are taking the mixology world by storm right now, but the technique itself dates back to at least the 18th century. The process involves using a milk wash to remove certain particles in the alcohol, leaving it with a clear appearance and smooth taste. If you want to try one for yourself, look no further than the Clara Mezcalita from Ca-
trina’s Mexican Kitchen & Cantina (2925 E. Battle eld Rd., Ste. 105, Spring eld)
This cocktail starts with four simple in gredients: El de Bateo Mezcal, fresh lime, agave and salt. Next up, they add milk, which curdles and absorbs the naturally occurring molecules that give the drink a bitter taste. After it undergoes the milk clari cation for 24 hours, they then dou ble-strain it to remove the curds. It nally makes its way to your glass, garnished with Tajín and cucumber.
The Conroy, McQueary and Pinheiro families came together to form PorVino, the idea of which was birthed from a love for friendship, travel and nding good wine.
BY TESSA COOPER
Tom and Brenda Conroy, Fred and Terri McQueary, and Dan and Amanda Pinheiro all have two things in common: a love for travel and seeking out good wine. When creative friends split a bottle of wine ideas naturally flow, but it takes a special group to guide these ideas into fruition. In 2020, the Conroys, McQuearys and Pinherios put their talents together and formed PorVino. PorVino released its first blend, Ever Seeking, a er the couples tasted their way through the vineyards of Portugal in June 2023. “Portugal is a sleeping giant in the wine world, and it is one of the oldest wine-producing countries,” Fred says. Most Portuguese wines are field blends, made from multiple grape varietals grown side-by-side in the same vineyard. Ever Seeking is a balanced red blend that’s a bit fruity on the nose and palate with a medium to full body and mineral touch. Its notes of blackberry compote and baking spice make it a good pairing for a meat and cheese plate or tapas. Pick up a bottle at Brown Derby International Wine Center, Macadoodles or The Reserve. Or, try a glass at Char Steakhouse and Oyster Bar, Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Avanzare Italian Dining, Harvest or Metropolitan Grill.
FLAVOR BOMB
How do we love kimchi fried rice from The Press? Let us count the ways.
BY TESSA COOPER
THE PRESS COFFEE & JUICE BAR HAS long been one of our favorite local haunts, and there’s one dish in particular that we return to time and time again. The kimchi fried rice is lling and warming. Here’s a little ode to why we love this dish:
The Ancient Grains
The soft and u y quinoa gives the fried rice a bump of texture and a slightly nutty and earthy taste. It all comes in a sizzling hot stone bowl with a crispy outer edge.
The Namesake Ingredient
Thanks to the kimchi, this dish woos your taste buds with spicy, tangy, sour and umami avors all at once.
The Eggcellent Addition
It all comes topped with a fried egg cooked your way that o ers protein and a sunny pop of yellow. If you need something extra, add on chicken, tofu or bulgogi.
We’ve yet to meet a deep-fried sushi roll we didn’t like. It’s a true weakness. However, the Sam’s Roll from Sakura Japanese Sushi Bar and Grill (Springfield) is our gold standard for a good fried sushi roll. The smooth texture and fat in the avocado and cream cheese cut through the spice from the jalapeño, o ering balance to every bite. Of course, the
roll wouldn’t be complete without the assortment of fish and crab stu ed inside. But it is the crispy tempura coating covered in a melange of sauces that makes this dish a forever repeater for us. We could honestly eat the spicy mayo with a drizzle of eel sauce by the spoonful. Aside from the Sam’s Roll, Sakura serves three other deep-fried rolls.
Sam’s Roll from Sakura is served with avocado and a crispy tempura coating.
One list. Zero themes. Just seven dishes that we have recently tried and can’t stop recommending.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
1 We are crazy for the Country Girl sandwich at Café Cubano . It is served on Cuban bread and stuffed with turkey, cream cheese and guava paste before being pressed to warm, crispy, melty perfection.
2 It might seem simple, but it’s extra-refreshing classic. The iced tea at Kingdom Coffee is freshly brewed using Earl Grey tea for a bright and delightful flavor.
3 The nigiri fans on staff can’t stop ordering the Tuna Sampler from Haruno . It features five pieces of nigiri, each with a different type of tuna on top. Our faves are the ones that are ever-so-lightly seared.
4 Choose your own adventure by picking a spice level for the Thai basil chicken at The Wheelhouse . It’s fried to crispy perfection and doused in an extra-flavorful sauce.
5 We tried something new recently and loved the heck out of it. The cachapas from the Caracus House food truck is a sweet corn pancake that’s filled with traditional Venezuelan cheese and sour cream. It’s sweet, it’s savory, and it’s wildly delish when dipped in the extra-spicy hot sauce.
6 You can’t go wrong with the chopped salad from Big Momma’s Coffee & Espresso . It just hits the spot with romaine lettuce, turkey, mozzarella, red onion, black olives, sunflower seeds and a creamy vinaigrette.
7 We love to start the day with an avocado Benedict from JW’s Kitchen . The English muffin comes from Neighbor’s Mill Bakery, the poached egg comes from Buttonwood Farm, and the sauce is a to-die-for brown butter hollandaise.
The plump, orange fruits that drop from my wild persimmon trees have become the essence of my family’s favorite fall traditions—both outdoors and in the kitchen.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
JUST AS THE MAPLE trees turn their brilliant red on our 15-acre property, another special type of plant begins to show o as well: our fruitful persimmon trees. When we rst moved to our home during the summer of 2023, I couldn’t wait to learn all about persimmons and how to harvest and cook with them. Toward the end of September, our rst ripe persimmons began to fall, and the whole family was intrigued. Legend has it that when you cut into your rst persimmon of the season, the shape of the seeds—often compared to spoon, fork or knife outline—determines what kind of weather to expect that winter. The knife means cold weather, a spoon shape means lots of snow and a fork means a mild winter. Looking to see the persimmon’s weather forecast is a fun little tradition we’ve made with family and friends around. It’s not until October that the real persimmon season begins. That’s when the ripe fruits really begin to fall from the tree. Many visitors have told us we have the biggest persimmon trees they’ve seen in the Ozarks. Towering at around 50 or 60 feet high, our two trees are right next to each other. It often feels like one tree, with two trunks,
RECIPE
Elevate the avors of persimmon with our favorite recipes for this fall fruit.
PERSIMMON CRANBERRY
WALNUT BREAD
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon real vanilla extract
3 cups persimmon pulp
10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
and when the season hits, hundreds of ripe persimmons fall from the trees. To harvest persimmons, you gather them from the ground—so you have to be quick. Often wildlife and bees feast on the fallen fruit, and we let them have plenty because there’s enough fruit to go around. One good system we have is spreading tarps out on the grass underneath the trees for a day so we can easily spot the newly fallen fresh fruit for gathering. You know a persimmon is ripe if it’s a bit mushy and a little wrinkly. It may even have a touch of purple color to it. If the persimmon is too hard, it’s not ripe enough.
As we harvest, we store our persimmons in the refrigerator and wait a few days until we’ve gathered enough to yield a large amount of pulp. Most recipes call for persimmon pulp, which is basically the soft glop of fruit that’s been pressed through a strainer to remove the seeds and stringy bits. We use a food mill, which makes quick work of the process—and my 4-year-old loves working it because it’s so easy. Once you have your pulp you can use it in a variety of recipes, and it’s easy to freeze.
The avor of persimmons that grow in the Midwest (not to be confused with Asian persimmons) is sweet, warm and full of fall spice aromas. I love to mix it into cocktails.
2 teaspoons baking soda, si ed to make sure there aren’t lumps
1⁄4 teaspoon (generous pinch) of salt
2 teaspoons cinnamon
3 cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups walnut pieces, toasted
1 cup dried cranberries
Juice of half an orange
Directions
Preheat oven to 350˚F. Butter two loaf pans. Toast walnut pieces on a dry skillet until lightly golden. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, orange juice and vanilla. Then add persimmon pulp
Enjoy the warm flavors of fall with a Persimmon & Citrus Old Fashioned.
The tradition, the memories and our time spent together as a family harvesting from the trees and making the bright and avorful pulp have been something I absolutely treasure. They’re messy and sticky, and the bees swarm them, but we feel so fortunate to have these big, beautiful trees. I’ve also enjoyed cutting branches and making beautiful fall arrangements with them. The Ozarks wild persimmon is so unique and honestly kind of weird, which suits our family perfectly.
and the melted butter and mix well. Add baking soda, salt and cinnamon and whisk to combine. Whisk in flour until blended. Fold in dried cranberries and walnuts and divide the batter between buttered loaf pans. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a wooden toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool. Serve with honey butter!
PERSIMMON & CITRUS OLD FASHIONED
1 tablespoon persimmon pulp
Juice of 1⁄3 orange
1–2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
3 dashes citrus bitters
2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
Cinnamon stick and star anise for garnish, if desired
Directions
Add persimmon, orange juice, maple syrup and bitters to an old fashioned glass and gently muddle. Add whiskey and stir until syrup is dissolved. Add a large ice cube and stir. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and star anise.
OUR DINING GUIDE FEATURES A SELECT LIST OF RESTAURANTS IN THE Ozarks. The magazine’s editors recommend all these restaurants, and we don’t accept freebies in exchange for reviews or listings. Entries are updated often and appear based on space availability. Specially featured restaurants are chosen by editors in service to readers.
$ = under $10, $$ = mostly $10-20, $$$ = $20 or more B, L, D = Serves Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner d= Outdoor seating
65 0 TAPAS
3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-8272777, tapas65.com Spanish. Try a variety of small plates to share with your friends at this Spanish-style spot. Dishes include things like burrata topped with sautéed mushrooms and marinated tomatoes, char-grilled oysters, charcuterie and lots more. There are larger entrees too, like paella, sea bass and tikka masala salmon. Reservations required on weekends.
$$–$$$ D
1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8831234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs.com. American fare.
The restaurant at Andy B’s Entertainment Center offers lane-side food service and a menu full of hearty, tasty fare like burgers, pizzas, pasta and more. If you have any pint-size bowlers, get the hot pretzel. It’s a kid-pleaser. Bonus: There’s a full-service bar here, too. Yum! $ L D
AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS
2144 E. Republic Road, Suite E120, Springfield, 417-881-9736; aviarycafe. com
Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes—which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there’s so much more besides crepes. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French flair. Be sure to try dishes infused with Lavender Falls flavors, like the lavender honey and goat cheese appetizer that is served with crisp crostini and fresh berries. $–$$ BLD d
BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL
3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3685919; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-7325077; 701 N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-7253777; bairsburgers.com
Burgers. There are 22 appetizers and 50 burgers on the menu at Bair’s, plus plenty of non-burger sandwiches, great chicken
Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com American. Springfield’s go-to for bu alo chicken dip, burgers and the staple pub foods has locations spreading throughout the Midwest. Fans rave about the spin dip too—a cheesy concoction with spinach and a little bit of heat. Don’t miss the ever-popular burgers, including the pretzel burger with horseradish aioli, bacon and cheddar. There are also meaty chicken wings, a handful of salads (we like the Strawberry Hill), handcut steaks and more. $$ B L D d
wings and salads. We love the burger that is topped with ranch dressing and fried pickles. So indulgent and delicious! You can get other sammies too, like fried pork tenderloin, Philly cheesesteaks or triple-decker clubs stacked tall. $ L D d
BIG EASY GRILL
3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040 Cajun. The jambalaya is fantastic, and we like to order it extra-spicy. The oyster po’boys are customer favorites, and the boudin (Cajun sausage balls) are not to be missed. Try mix-and-match dishes to create a meal full of your favorite Cajun flavors. $ L D dK
1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-4273040, bigshotsgolf.com American. Come for the golf but stay for the good eats. There are great burgers (like the double smash burger with Hatch green chilis), pizza, wings and lots of shareable apps like the crispy red chili cauliflower. Brunch on the weekends. $$ B L D d
206 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-701-1130 Farm-to-table. All of the freshly baked pastries and breads are amazing here. They do some creative things with pastry, from tender galettes filled with loads of luscious lemon curd to flaky pot pies filled with savory meats and veggies. Many of the ingredients are from Blue Heron Farm and other local and regional producers. We love the sausage roll served with pickles and whole-grain mustard, and the almond croissant is oh-so-dreamy. $ B L
209 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417319-5905; 2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, 417-3680227; 2420 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-3513595; blaaacksheep.com Burgers. This swanky but comfortable burger joint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield Village and on East Sunshine Street. Chow down on the Good Yogi; two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and baaad sauce—house-made Thousand Island dressing. Vegetarian? Black Sheep has you covered with its Hippy Jen. The shakes are great here too, with both kid-friendly options and grown-up versions with alcohol. For the adults, we recommend trying the Purple Haze with blackberry moonshine. $ L D
If you have a foodie story idea, news about a local restaurant, or a correction to one of our Dining Guide listings, email our editorial team at yum@417mag.com.
234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688088, cafecusco.com
Peruvian. This menu is packed with fun and unexpected dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the Andes Mountains. A few standouts: the black bean quinoa burger with avocado spread, the Lomo Saltado, and a host of delicious entrees. Anything that includes the ceviche is a sure-bet. You can get it as an appetizer, or as a taco filling. $$ L D d
at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org
American. Located on the grounds of the sprawling, spectacular Dogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon Grill Restaurant oozes rustic elegance and boasts a menu inspired by its earthy surroundings. Try the bison burger made with bacon and caramelized onion topped with fire-roasted poblano peppers and pepper-jack cheese. For a sip, there’s a specialty cocktail menu. $–$$ L D d
CHATEAU GRILLE
415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-243-1777, chateauonthelake.com
Contemporary American. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Chateau Grille o ers gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake. And you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. The restaurant focuses on upscale, seasonal cuisine, flying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award-winning menu. Open daily during the regular season; open during weekends only during the o -season. $$$ B L D d
CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE
601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800
Contemporary American. What do you get when you combine a co ee shop, bar, cafe and liquor store? Cherry Picker Package + Fare. A small selection of sandwiches, soups and salads is served daily. We’re big fans of the To Brie or Not to Brie—an Artisan Oven baguette topped with salted butter spread, thinly sliced ham, apricot preserves and a slice of brie. A er your meal, order an adult beverage at the bar or pick up a bottle of wine to enjoy at home. $ B L D d
609 S. Main St., Joplin, club609.com
American. The menu is large at this Joplin mainstay, and it o ers everything from sandwiches to delicious steaks. Don’t miss the pecan-encrusted chicken or grilled ahi tuna entrees—and be sure to order them with a side of flash-fried spinach. There is a wide variety of entree salads (you have to try the Cobb), and soups are made fresh every day. They also have a killer happy hour. $$ L D
DERBY DELI
2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066
Bistro fare. Located inside Brown Derby International Wine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus board and more. We love the Martin’s salad, topped with oven-roasted chicken, or the Local Goat salad topped with a scoop of chicken salad. Don’t miss the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham, President’s butter and Gruyere on a baguette. If you’re thinking, “But it’s just a ham sandwich,” you’ll be in for a very pleasant surprise. $ L D
at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, bigcedar.com
American. Here you can enjoy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. For an appetizer, the smoked trout is fantastic, and so is the cornbread topped with cracked pepper maple butter and smoked bacon. The entrees change with the season and are always a blend of rustic and upscale. Brunch on Sundays. $$–$$$ B L D d
1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu
American. College of the Ozarks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farmto-table quality. There’s a fried green tomato caprese appetizer that uses pickled tomatoes and a house-made mozzarella cheese. The Keeter Center also has a creamery that o ers up some delightful homemade ice creams and sorbets. The extensive brunch bu et on Sundays is excellent. $$ B L D d
24 Downing St, Hollister, 417-320-6106; dspourhouse.com
American. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour House is the brainchild of the award-winning barbecue slingers who own Gettin’ Basted. But there’s a lot more than just barbecue here. Must-try dishes include the giant Bavarian pretzel appetizer, the queso-smothered tamales and the blackened mahi mahi entree. Don’t miss the wagyu burgers. $–$$ L D
2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8646994, farmersgastropub. com
Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and changes regularly. The entrees are well priced and satisfying, like the Scotch eggs and the chicken chop salad (arugula, kale, cabbage, blue cheese, boiled egg, pumpkin seeds, buttermilk dressing). There’s also a great selection of beer, and the burgers and fish and chips are always delicious. $$ B L D d
2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8665253, oasisfireandice.com Global cuisine. This spot (located inside Oasis Hotel & Convention Center) specializes in dry-aged steaks and certified Angus beef and has a delicious menu that changes with the seasons. Be sure to try the Fire & Ice Whiskey Burger with a Maker’s Mark whiskey glaze and crispy fried onions. At the bar, you can watch cooks in the open kitchen while resting your drink on the ice bar. $$ L D d
THE GARRISON
at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, finleyfarmsmo.com
Shareable fine dining. Located beneath the Ozark Mill at Finley Farms, The Garrison features a dark and moody speakeasy vibe, a fine dining menu and a beautiful riverside patio. Try the mini pot roast, the forest panzanella salad or the rosemary pound cake. $$$ D d
THE GROTTO
301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-886-9600 gogrotto.com West Coast–style American. The menu is accessible to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. The super-indulgent warm blue cheese chips are a favorite appetizer. Customers like the burgers (especially the burger topped with lots of tangy blue cheese). One of our favorite things is the grilled salmon. $ L D d
HACKETT HOT WINGS
520 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-625-1333, hacketthotwings.com
American. Sometimes the only thing that will satisfy your cravings is a big plate of some seriously good chicken wings. The wings at Hackett Hot Wings are fantastic and we’ve heard rave reviews from readers and sta ers alike. There are 13 wing flavors. $ L D
2431 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8627777; houlihans.com
American. The fish tacos and burgers are fantastic, and we love the enormous nachos appetizer along with the vast salad selection. Grab some friends and share a few of the small plates. When the weather is nice, be sure to grab a table on the patio, where you can sit around a fire pit . $–$$ L D d
HUEY MAGOO’S CHICKEN TENDERS
3352 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8128020, hueymagoos.com
Chicken tenders. The region’s first Huey Magoo’s Chicken Tenders is located in Springfield near Sunshine Street and Highway 65. This spot offers chicken tenders (both fried or grilled) in platters, sandwiches, salads and wraps. $–$$ L D
HY-VEE
1720 Battlefield Road, Springfield; 2150 E. Sunshine St., Springfield; hy-vee.com
2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8894951, metropolitan-grill. com
Eclectic fine dining. Known for its delectable flash-fried spinach, this restaurant specializes in steaks and seafood. The salads are always fresh and delicious. And we love that the menu is always changing, giving us something new and delicious to be excited about—served in a familiar space. The cocktails are delicious, the wine menu is wonderful and the service is always top-notch. $$$ D d
Monday–Saturday: 4:30–11 p.m. Sunday: Closed
Monday–Friday: 11 a.m–2 p.m
8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville Farm-to-table. 417-8303656. Dining at Harvest Restaurant is an experience like none other in 417-land. Owners, Craig and Tamara Von Foerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper-seasonal, local cuisine. The menu is always in flux depending on what is in-season. Our tip: Order whatever seafood option is currently on the menu. $$$ D d
American and more. It’s all about variety when it comes to the freshly prepared food at Hy-Vee, so it’s a great place to find something for every member of your family—even the picky ones! You have a hibachi grill, a pizzeria, hearty comfort food, sushi, Chinese dishes and Wahlburgers burgers. $–$$ B L D
LA HABANA VIEJA
220 E. Commercial St., Springfield, la-habanavieja.com
Cuban. Find great mojitos and a menu full of Cuban fare at this Commercial Street eatery. Try the ropa vieja, Cuba’s national dish of beef brisket, rice and veggies. You can also get an appetizer of yucca fries, or ceviche with plantain chips. $$–$$$ L D
2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8833403, nearlyfamous.net Deli and Italian. Regulars love the weekly specials: egg salad on Fridays, pear sandwiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastic, and it goes well with just about any sandwich at this friendly spot. It’s hopping at lunchtime, and the dinner hours o er a menu filled with tasty pasta dishes. $$ B L D
1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417-720-4162; neighborsmill.com
Deli and bakery. This full time bakery o ers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches, soups and salads. Don’t miss the honey pecan chicken salad, which comes on Bronze honey wheat bread, or the Reuben, which comes on pumpernickel rye bread. They have two soups of the day, one of which is vegetarian. Don’t forget to grab a loaf of bread while you’re there; the Neighbor’s Best loaf makes truly topnotch avocado toast. $ B L D
at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-832-1515, theordersgf.com
New American. Step inside the Vandivort Hotel and turn le for a downtown-Springfield dining experience not to be missed. The atmosphere is trendy but relaxed while the food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from-scratch kitchen. Try Executive Chef Calvin Davis’s spin on cashew chicken or the market fish specials that change daily. Brunch is excellent here too.
$$–$$$ D
at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-2256343, topo herock.com
American fine dining. Take in beautiful views from the dining room at Osage Restaurant, located at Top of the Rock, and enjoy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The fried chicken is stellar, and the cocktails menu always o ers created and delicious options. Downstairs is the End of the Trail wine cellar with a wine tasting bar and whiskey room.
$$$ B D
at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, finleyfarmsmo.com Farm-to-table. Inside the beautifully restored Ozark Mill, you can order upscale farm-to-table meals that are made with ingredients grown right at Finley Farms or produced in their on-site apiary. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters appetizer made with artichoke, sausage, mozzarella and served over a pickled pepper aioli. We also love the Chicken & Dumplins made with cornbread gnocchi and the simple gem lettuce salad. $$–$$$ L D d
PIER 28 PIZZA & GRILL
344 Nautical Circle, Kimberling City, 417-5271580, pier28pizzagrill.com
American. Come for lakeside views and a menu filled with pizza, burgers, tacos and more. If you love fried pickles, get an order of the spicy pickle chips to share. And if you’re looking for something on the lighter side, the menu o ers several salads. $$ L D
QUEEN CITY SOUL KITCHEN
1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-3798614, facebook.com/ QueenCitySoulKitchen
Soul food. The menu changes from week to week here, but the o erings are always delicious. Find comforting fare like meatloaf, fried chicken wings, smothered pork chops and more. Make sure you leave room for dessert because there are always classics like peach cobbler or bread pudding with rum sauce up for grabs. $–$$ L D
REBAR KITCHEN & TAP ROOM
2902 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-5974569, rebar-taproom.com.
American. This spot features elevated takes on taproom fare. A few menu highlights include charbroiled oysters, duck bacon wontons, pizza, wings and more. There are several burgers, like the Hoglager BBQ Burger. $$ B L D
RED ONION CAFÉ
204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe.com
American and Italian The Tuxedo Chicken is a customer favorite. Diners also love the bacon-wrapped shrimp, the blackened tuna sandwich or Dave’s fried chicken salad. Try the BLT&A. (The A stands for avocado… yum!) There’s even a section of the menu with keto options. $$ B L D
Hours: Tues–Thurs: 5–9pm Fri: 5–10pm Sat: Hours vary Sun: 3–7pm Mon: Closed 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
Hours: 11am–9:30pm
Chinese cuisine restaurant, offering great prices, a friendly staff and freshly prepared dishes, such as the Mandarin Combination meal displayed above. Dine in, use the convenient drive through or enjoy outside dining on the lovely patio.
1710 S. Kansas Expy., SGF | 417-832-8889 557 E. Elm St., Republic | 417-732-9888
2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7201708, eatretrometro.com
Contemporary American
This throw-back concept brings back decades of old Metropolitan Grill favorites and quite a few brand-new flavors too from owner Chef Tiny. The aptly named Retro Metro serves some of Metropolitan’s greatest hits, including flash-fried spinach and chicken spiedini. But there are original items on the menu as well, from Chef Tiny himself. During happy hour, come in fro wagyu sliders, crab cake sliders and more. Dishes are available via drive-thru, too. $$$ D
3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7557155, splitspringfield.com
American. Come for creative and beautifully prepared shareables, like burrata with tru e pesto, that are served a teeny restaurant space that packs a lot of good vibes. We love the amazing macaroni and cheese (get fried chicken with it as your optional protein). And the Chiliville hot chicken sandwich is spicy. $$ B L D
301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315
American. The burgers are top-notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken breast are a favorite (try the one with spicy Cajun chicken—yum!). Come hungry enough to order dessert because the cakes are stellar. Our favorite is the dreamy banana cake (nothing can beat it!) but the blueberry-lemon is a very close second. If you need to feed a crowd, their Italian catering options are huge, a ordable and never disappoint. $–$$ L D
621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417866-7500, teabarandbites.com.
Bistro fare. Everything we’ve tasted at Tea Bar & Bites has been fantastic. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, flaky crust. We love any of the menu items that have a Mediterranean flair. The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. There are tasty baked goods too, like giant caramel rolls or sweet coconut cream cupcakes. $ B L d
VAN GOGH’S
334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie.com
Indo-Dutch. Dutch pancakes, chicken witlof and other Indo-Dutch and Dutch-inspired cuisine populate the menu at this Commercial Street hotspot from Joe Gidman of Cafe Cusco. We love the pancakes—especially the Farm Near Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. For something packed with veggies, the Liza’s Stamppot entree is perfect. For something sweet, our favorite is the Starry Night dessert pancake topped with blueberry compote, lemon-ginger sauce and ice cream. $$ B L D
BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ
2002 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8869979, buckinghambbq. com
Diners love the ribs and the burnt ends at this classic barbecue eatery. We can’t get enough of the killer smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. Don’t miss the jalapeño bottle caps. If you’re extra hungry, get the baked potato covered with just about everything. $ L D d
3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7201113, citybutchersgf.com Come early because this Texas-style barbecue spot, where the meat is smoked in small batches for optimal freshness, is known to sell out. Killer brisket, pulled pork and other favorites are sold first-come, first-served with a few simple but delicious side dish options. If you’re in a sandwich mood, try the City Smokestack, piled high with brisket, pulled pork, pork belly and your choice of sausage (we recommend Texas hot links).
$–$$ L D d
1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646
Try the ribs or the brisket. The Big Pappa Dinner is a signature dish, and it features tons of meat including ribs, brisket and hot links. We loved the smoked chicken salad for something that feels healthy and indulgent at the same time. And as for sides, you have to go with the crispy fried okra. Another customer favorite is the always-tasty and oh-so-crispy fried catfish. $–$$ L D
3242 S. Stewart Ave., Springfield; 2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com
Come here for award-winning barbecue in all your favorite varieties: brisket, ribs, pulled pork and more. The seven wagyu burgers on the menu are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong with homemade pimento cheese, barbecue nachos and more. We can’t get enough of the pork tacos appetizer, featuring pulled pork tacos on grilled tortillas with slaw and pineapple. The house salad topped with chicharrones is a hit too. $–$$ L D
HEADY BAR-B-QUE
573 E. Elm St., Republic, headybbq.com
This spot specializes in Kansas City–style barbecue. Among stellar ribs, brisket and more perfectly prepared meats, you can find unexpected dishes with a barbecue spin: nachos, salads, a burrito. The sandwiches are all packed with ingredients, liked the Hogwallop that has pull pork, hot link, pickled jalapeños, pepper-jack cheese, onions and a special sauce. $–$$ L D
943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744
Be sure not to miss the pork spare ribs with Pappy’s barbecue sauce or the barbecue nachos at this long-running Springfield institution. (Extra perk: We’ve heard people say that Pappy’s sells the very coldest beer in town.) $ L D
BILLY GAIL’S CAFE
5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com
Billy Gail’s in Branson has been a beloved breakfast hotspot for ages. The Ozark spot and has become just as popular. Come for massive pancakes and other breakfast fare. $ B L D
424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net
We love the creative takes on eggs Benedict that we’ve found at The Bruncheonette, whose menu changes weekly but is always interesting. Don’t miss your chance to order a plate of poutine This restaurant is small but mighty. $ B L
1717 E. Cherokee St., Springfield, 417-885-8088
This spot serves up creative breakfast fare and has a full-service bar churning out breakfast margaritas and the ilk. Bonus: Those breakfast margs are made with orange marmalade for a nod to the day’s first meal. Don’t miss the tacos, burritos, traditional breakfast fare, sandwiches and more. Try the Bluebird Bird’s Nest, a pu pastry topped with cream cheese, blueberries, bananas, granola, honey and a hardboiled egg. $ B L d
2946 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8890601; 3103 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-6337094; firstwatch.com
At First Watch you can find breakfast power bowls (like the one filled with quinoa, sausage, mushrooms, tomatoes, kale and eggs), lemon-ricotta pancakes, avocado toast, a superfood bowl with chia pudding and fruit and lots more. There are a few di erent varieties of eggs Benedict (we love the one topped with bacon and avocado), and we love that many of the dishes come with a simple lemon-and-greens salad on the side to brighten it all up. $ B L
220 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-5500
The sweet potato hash browns are super-delish here, and we highly recommend ordering them in place of the traditional hash browns. We also love The Bear Hug: biscuits and gravy, choice of meat, two eggs and either hash browns or sweet browns. Gailey’s is known for breakfast, but the restaurant also has a tasty lunch menu. $ B L
2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997
This brunch spot comes from the owners of Farmers Gastropub, Andy and Misty Hampshire. It features excellently prepared favorites and some fun surprises. You can get biscuits with chocolate gravy (a southern American favorite) or a full English breakfast (black sausage included) and everything in between. $$ B L
105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-6916088, 417rise.com
This spot is the brainchild of the same people who own European Cafe. The large and varied menu is inventive and superbly executed, with clever dishes like pavlova-inspired French toast, baklava-inspired Belgian wa es, both sweet and savory rice pudding meals, nourishing grain bowls, breakfast sandwiches from classic to creative and so much more. Treat yourself to a breakfast cocktail and a plate of creamed eggs topped with smoked salmon. It’s an awesome way to brunch. $ B L
1427 E. Cherry St., Springfield, 417-3799401, danisflourpotbakery. com
Located inside The Royal, this darling spot serves creative, classic and always delicious breakfast fare. We are obsessed with their hashbrown quiches, and the homemade biscuits topped with everything seasoning are to die for. Any baked sweet is a dream here too, especially the filled donuts and any of the creative cakes. Be sure to order a cup of coffee; they use beans from Arkansas-based Onyx Co ee Lab. $ B L
Multiple 417-land locations, villageinn.com
Try the breakfast skillets, eggs Benedict and, of course, the super-tasty pies. We love the crepes and other sweet breakfast o erings, too. At breakfast, you can build your own meal by picking four items from a long list of classic breakfast favorites. (We like pairing eggs with bacon, fruit and half of a sweet Belgian wa e). And of course, don’t miss grabbing a slice of pie while you’re there. $ B L D
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite A104, Springfield, 417-877-7505
Chinese food fans, this is a must-try spot for you. We just keep hearing rave reviews about Bao Bao Chinese Bistro. This little spot in Chesterfield Village has a chef who used to own a restaurant in Shanghai, so there are several authentic items on the menu. Try the saltand-pepper pork, a super-tender duck entree, the veggie-filled wonton soup, or the jiaozi dumplings. Or bring your appetite and tuck into a hot pot filled with seafood, tofu and more. $ L D
CHINESE CHEF
3029 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8834770, facebook.com/ chinesechefcampbell; 1731 S. Enterprise Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2433
Classic Springfield-style Chinese food is on the vast and very a ordable menu at Chinese Chef.
Owner Joe Fong has been serving Springfield for over 40 years, and some of his customers’ favorite dishes include Kung Pao chicken, made-from-scratch
A little over a year ago, we reported on Spring eld Brewing Company and Ty Iechyd Da Distillery’s plans to expand into Rogersville, and it has now all come to fruition. One 2 Five Taproom (1846 MO-125, Rogersville) recently welcomed its rst guests. We’re, of course, very excited to try the drinks, but we’re also dreaming about our rst bite of delicious wood- red pizza there. You can also grab some spirits and brews to take home from the on-site package store at the family-friendly and dog-friendly joint. Spring eld Brewing Company and Ty lechyd Da Distillery are still hard at work on their location in Willard, so there’s even more tasty fun to come.—Tessa Cooper
cashew chicken, crab rangoon and egg rolls. The Campbell location o ers a Sunday bu et, and both locations o er a drive-thru daily. $ L D
1730 E. Republic Road, 1369 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7666630, corner21us.com
This restaurant might look tiny from the outside, but its menu o ers a large variety of authentic Chinese dishes, including several Szechuan-style meals. You’ll even find dishes that aren’t common on local Chinese restaurant menus, such as braised pork belly with rice noodles, ribeye and enoki mushrooms in a curry broth, crispy fried pumpkin, spicy Szechuan fish and so much more. We loved everything we tried on a recent visit,
especially the lamb cumin and the Szechuan shrimp. For a meat-free option, the Mix Vegetable with Special Sauce is a bright and delightful dish. $ L D
1632 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8811113; 1645 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8663382; 1520 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417881-8008; 761 N. 17th St., Ozark, 417-581-2539
This spot serves typical Chinese favorites and tasty egg rolls. The Szechuan chicken is a favorite and packs quite a spicy punch. The cashew chicken is a longtime customer favorite. Also worth a try: sesame chicken, kung pao chicken, and the hot and sour soup. All three have a bit of spice. $ L D
1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-887-7500
The Leong family serves its original cashew chicken at this tasty eatery, among lots of other yummy stu . The crab Rangoon are especially delicious here, and we like to dip them in the bold and spicy mustard sauce. The egg rolls are a classic, made from scratch with a peanut butter flair. The General Tso’s chicken has a rich and spicy sauce and lots of veggies. Another favorite is the Hunan beef. The signature dishes are great, but be sure to keep an eye out for new items, as they change up their menu a couple times a year. $–$$ L D
Several 417-land loca-
tions, lucyschinesefood. com
Don’t miss the cashew chicken combo special that gets you an entree, a side and fried rice for an incredible price. We like the sweet and sour chicken here. But if you’d rather eat something mega-spicy than something fried, order the hot chicken. It’ll have you reaching for your water glass with every bite. We love the kids meals here, too. They are the perfect little portion of tiny diners, plus they come with a spring roll, a crab rangoon and a drink. $ L D
our favorite sandwiches from Big Momma’s (with apples, provolone and creamy spreads), and we also adore the sweets selection. $ B L D d
545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook. com/theblacklabllc; 300 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-9427881, facebook.com/ BlackLabDowntown; 3541 S. Lone Pine Ave, Springfield
special featuring that same tasty pork that comes on the Cuban sandwiches. $ B L D
1900 W. Sunset St., Springfield, 417-8817625, classicrockco ee. com; 535 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-7715143, classicrockco eedowntown.com
1826 E. Turner St., Springfield, 417-4509648, darkstoneco ee. com
smoky chili. We love ordering the miso caramel latte too. $ B L D d
ARCHITECT COFFEE
1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715030, architectco eeco. com
This Instagram-chic coffee shop on Springfield’s south side o ers a bright and cozy atmosphere with warm drinks and hearty food, to boot. The breakfast burritos are stellar and so filling. We love the seasonal drinks that change every so o en, especially when they o er some version of a refreshing espresso tonic. So good! Don’t skip the sandwiches or salads for lunch (served all night). We also love this spot because it’s hopping, and we always run into a friend when we visit. $ B L
BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR
217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8659911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-8684157; bigmommasco ee. com
This spot o ers co ee, espresso and blended frappes. But there is more on the menu than just drinks. Be sure to try the super-delicious sandwiches that are served here, too. The Juliette is one of
This casually canine-inspired co ee stop is Republic’s place to be for a piping hot Labbuccino, and their second location in Springfield serves all the same pup-inspired menu items. Try the Black Lab, which includes to ee nut and chocolate, or the Goldendoodle, a signature combination of caramel and brown sugar. Sips aren’t the only draw here, either. The shop serves full lunch and breakfast menus too. Indulge in a Nutella toast with strawberries along with your morning brew. $ B L
3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8877777, facebook.com/ countrygirlsespresso
Aside from all of the delicious co ee drinks, the real must-try item here is the authentic Cuban sandwich, served pressed on Cuban bread. Cafe Cubano’s’ signature is its Cafe Con Leche with scalded milk. We also love the guava pastry, a huge treat that costs less than $2 and is filled with delectable, tropical sweetness. For breakfast, the pressed bacon and cheddar burritos are a favorite thanks to crisp, thick-cut bacon. Order it with an iced Americano for a hearty breakfast. Don’t forget to come by on Tuesday, when you can Cuban tacos on
This co ee shop o ers espresso drinks with rock ‘n’ roll–inspired names. Try the Sweet Emotion latte (with chocolate and caramel) and a ham and cheese pu pastry breakfast pocket to start your day. Another perennial favorite drink: The Dirty White Boy. $ B L D d
THE COFFEE ETHIC
124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-8666645, theco eeethic.com
Try the single-origin coffee, brewed one cup at a time, or any of the creative and delicious seasonal drinks. The cappuccino is fantastic (truly one of the best we’ve ever had), and the shop also serves wine, cra beers on dra and a small selection of quality liquors. The food game here is strong too, with loaded oatmeal, freshly baked mu ns and more. We love the bottled lattes too. $ d
1945 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8835114, dancingmuleco ee. com
The mochas are great here—chocolatey but not too sweet. Dancing Mule also does a really good authentic cappuccino that’s made just right. Try the Peanut Butter Fandango Frappe if you’re in the mood for something a little more funky, and if you’re on the run, swing through the drive-thru. Seasonal options are great. $ B
This drive-thru-only co ee trailer has a menu of classic co ee and espresso drinks alongside fun flavored lattes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Sugar & Spice made with the heat of a little bit of ghost pepper. We like to get the lattes blended, and we hear the French Silk flavor is absolutely to die for. It’s perfect for a quick on-the-go co ee run when you don’t have time to get out of the car. $ B L D
ECHELON COFFEE
2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-3742739, echelonco ee.com
This sunny co ee shop (with a drive-thru!) has excellent espresso drinks, drip co ee, pour-over and more. The cortado is always well done. And we love The Formation (espresso with vanilla, cinnamon and honey) prepared as a frappe when we’re feeling indulgent. Don’t miss the delish breakfast and lunch fare too. There are excellent biscuits and gravy on the weekends only, and options like smoothie bowls, breakfast burritos, sandwiches and salads every day of the week. $ B L D •
EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE
445 E. Commercial St., 417-720-1949, culturecstreet.com
This co ee roaster with a mission also serves some tasty fare in its Culture Cafe. In addition to carefully cra ed cups of co ee, there are excellent lunch items. Recently we’ve enjoyed the chicken tikka naan’wich and the
211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-350-1234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf. com
The co ee menu features classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos, mochas and more. We love the classic cortado the most, and the not-toosweet and super-creamy iced matcha latte is truly delicious. The seasonal drinks are always a treat here, too. If you can get your hands on it, be sure to order a cheddar and chive scone (and ask them to warm it up!). For an even more substantial bite, try the Union Biscuit: smoked bacon, two eggs, sharp cheddar cheese and herb preserves on a buttermilk biscuit. $ B L D d
323 South Ave. Suite B, Springfield, 417-8321720, mudhouseco ee. com
The co ee is always fantastic here, at Springfield’s OG downtown co ee shop. Plus, Mudhouse also o ers a wide variety of loose-leaf teas. The muffins here are huge and delicious (make sure you try the one with berries—it’s our favorite). $ BLD
2710 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-771-5950 Asian fusion. This wholefoods cafe o ers organic dishes with ingredients from local market vendors. Juices are organic and cold-pressed. The real draw here is the MexicanKorean fusion menu, featuring gogi nachos, kimchi fried rice and street tacos. The gogi quesadilla with
kimchi is our favorite; we like to order it with tofu and extra goji sauce on the side for dipping every single crispy bite of our quesadilla. $ B L D d
ROOTS COFFEE
1645 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8776889, facebook.com/ rootsco eebar
Grab a cup of joe on the go or stay awhile and order a breakfast sandwich at this versatile co ee shop. Be sure not to miss the Smash Brown: a fried egg, cheese and hash brown sandwich topped with sausage, house-made brisket or pecan smoked shoulder bacon and served on a potato bun. Other popular menu items include breakfast burritos and the BLT. $ B L D d
COFFEE & PLANT LAB
5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, urbangrounds417.com
This spot specializes in drinks made with locally roasted co ee. Try classics like lattes and cappuccinos, or opt for a flavored options (like salted caramel to ee) or a botanical latte made with things like beetroot, turmeric and more. When you’re hungry, munch on one of the loaded toasts, a grazing tray, a smoothie bowl and more. This co ee shop doubles as a plant store and boutique, selling gi s, home decor and more. In the plant lab, you can buy a plant and a pot and then put them together while you sip a co ee or a cocktail. Open Mon.–Fri. 6 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat.–Sun. 8 a.m.–4 p.m. $ B L
840 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com
The Workshop is a co ee shop and gathering space. The menu includes classic co ee and tea o erings
plus super-sized suped-up toasts (the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious). Don’t miss the delicious creamy chicken salad; it’s excellent. As for drinks, we love The Workshop Shake, a shaken iced latte with vanilla bean syrup, cinnamon and honey. Their take on a London Fog, featuring pH lavender syrup, is delicious too. You can also sign up for handson workshops and classes. Open Mon.–Sat., 7 a.m.–3
p.m. $ B L d
1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8871148, queencitydeli.com
This spot serves up pasta, soups, salads and some super-delicious sandwiches. Don’t miss The Burnes (beef tenderloin on garlic bread) or the Italian beef sandwiches (order them wet to get plenty of luscious jus). You can’t go wrong with the pastrami sandwich that’s incredibly meaty—piled high just like they do it in New York City delis. $ L D
113 E. Main St., Branson, mythicalwich.com
This sandwich shop comes from the owners of another Branson favorite: Gettin’ Basted. It o ers a large selection of bold lunch and breakfast sandwiches, like the Holy Hand Grenade topped with pastrami hash and a fried egg. There are also soups, salads and desserts—like the banana pudding that we’re dying to try. $ BLD
208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-6859682, thesandwichscene. com
This little spot started out inside Sweet Boy’s
Hours: Sun: 11am–8pm Mon: Closed Tues-Thurs: 8am–9pm
(some kitchens close at 8pm) Fri: 8am–11pm (some kitchens close at 10pm) Sat: 9am–11pm (some kitchens close at 10pm)
A diverse marketplace with ten unique restaurant concepts. Try “The Gochu Handcrafted Korean BBQ” featuring K-Fried Chicken, prepared by Chef Leo. Korean style crispy chicken tempura with sweet yuzu chili sauce served with organic spring mix salad on top of steamed rice.
203 E. Mt Vernon St., Nixa 417-763-6500 | 14millmarket.com
Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned Thai food enthusiast, Everyday Thai invites you to discover Thailand’s diverse culinary heritage. Open six days a week, they are honored to provide the best Thai food in Southwest Missouri.
0 W. lefield Rd., Springfield 41 0 014 e er d i.c
Neighborhood Bar and has now found a home of its own on McDaniel Street. This spot slings some seriously good sammies. Don’t miss the Eurbano, made with mojo pork, housemade terrine, ham, Swiss and spicy giardiniera. The Meatball sub is crazy good too, and you should keep an eye out for any of the get-them-while-you-can specials that are always creative and delish. $ L D
1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-8873804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318077
The Fighter Pilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, banana peppers, lettuce
and sub sauce. Be sure to try the sandwich specials (also known as the secret sandwiches); they are always creative and delish. Hit an ATM on the way there, because The Sub Shop is cash only. $ L d
3811 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417887-6600; 3645 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-719-4486; 1971 E. Independence St., Springfield, 417-3501273; tropicalsmoothiecafe.com
Lunches are light and pretty guilt-free. Grab a turkey-bacon-ranch sandwich or a wrap. Sides include a tasty street corn and some sweet-yet-healthful maple
roasted sweet potatoes. And of course, don’t miss those tasty smoothies. They come in just about every flavor you can think of, but we’re partial to the one with berries and oats. Kids eat free on weekends. $ B L D d
Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com Frozen treats. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings (our sta ers love the key lime pie and blackberry in the summer, and the apple pie and pumpkin pie in the fall). Try the Ozarks Turtle sundae, a classic concoction with caramel,
We’ll cut right to the chase with this exciting news. The highly anticipated second location of Corner 21 Chinese Cuisine is now open at 1730 E. Republic Road. We just chatted with co-owner Jiapeng Lu, and he told us to come expecting an expanded menu inspired by his hometown in northeast China. A few of the new o erings he listed include duck and cong you bing (Chinese pancakes). Lu posted a few sneak peeks of the seating area on social media. It looks spacious enough to meet the popular demand for its glass noodles and pineapple chicken. Oh, and never fear—the original location isn’t going anywhere.—Tessa Cooper
hot fudge and toasty pecans. There are several sundae and concrete options, plus root beer floats and Italian ice pops. Or you can order your own creation. We like to get a sundae with raspberries, pecans and marshmallow flu . $ d
1458 E. Cherry St., Springfield Frozen treats. From Dani Hunnell, the owner of Sleepy Opossum Cafe, this cute little creamery in the Rountree neighborhood serves handmade scoops in flavors ranging from familiar to adventurous. We loved the lemon-cranberry and the banana-honeycomb ice creams the most so far. You can even get a six-scoop ice cream flight to try them all. Fun bonus: It has a walk-up window. $
207 Park Central East, Springfield, 417europeancafe.com
European pastries. Along with co ee drinks, this little bakery serves up lovely croissants, beautiful desserts, perfect pastries and more. You can even find some savory pastries, like the bacon, egg and goat cheese tart. Their macarons are to die for, and the pretty little mousse cakes are almost too lovely to eat. We love the quiche here as well. It pairs perfectly with the ever-changing seasonal co ee and tea drinks, which are always delicious and full of lovely ingredients. $
320 Park Central West, Springfield, 417-7194119; 1111 E. Republic Road, Suite 164, Springfield, 417-7557574; wannahurts.com Donuts. Outside-the-box toppings cover these super-delicious doughnuts, and they are available 24
hours a day in downtown Springfield. A customer favorite is the maple-bacon bar, a huge, saltysweet concoction that is oh-so-delish. But it’s not just donuts. You can also get shakes, freshly baked cookies, enormous apple fritters, macaroons, savory kolaches and more. $
LA BOBA CAFE
1601 W. Sunshine St., Suite D, Springfield, 417720-1328 facebook.com/ labobacafe
Boba tea. Here you can get boba tea in a huge variety of flavors and formats, from regular tea to milk tea and smoothies. Toppings include black boba, crystal boba and several flavors of jelly and popping boba. Our favorite: Tiger milk tea (a combination of Thai tea and jasmine tea) with lychee jellies and crystal boba. You can also get rolled ice cream sundaes here. $
LUCKY CAT BOBA TEA & TAIYAKI
3424 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-351-3136 Boba tea. There is a he y menu of bubble tea options (we like the passionfruit mojito bubble tea that comes with fresh lime and mint leaves) plus sweet snacks like mitarashi dongo skewers, red bean–filled mochi, and darling slices of cake. The taiyaki are fish-shaped wa e-like cakes with tasty fillings that come in a variety of flavors like sweet red bean, Nutella, vanilla custard and more. If you want something savory, try the porkfilled steamed buns. $
PRAIRIE PIE
307 S. Je erson Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com Pie and cookies. Prairie Pie makes stellar all-buttercrust pies in flavors that range from classic to inventive. The caramel apple pie is an elevated take on a classic and is quite pop-
ular. Any of owner Eleanor Taylor’s pies made with rhubarb (some with cherry, some with strawberry) are superb. Stop by the storefront for other o erings as well, such as savory pot pies, cookies and crazy-good mashed potatoes. $–$$
1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7204094, facebook.com/ societea.
Boba tea. Bubble tea is the name of the game at this authentic spot where the matcha milk tea and the matcha roll cake are both must-try o erings. Whether you’re a bubble tea veteran or looking to try something new, this is your place. We love that you can customize the sweetness level of your drinks and top them with options we don’t see o en at other boba tea spots (like big pieces of co ee jelly, or creamy cheese foam). Our favorite is the fresh strawberry milk tea with crystal boba. $
3628 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8817515; 3012 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417882-1718; 1415 W. State Highway J, Ozark, 417425-7885; stgeorgesdonuts.net
Donuts. Lots of luscious doughnuts are made fresh daily here. We love the glazed blueberry and the oh-so-fresh chocolate cake donuts. $ d
1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291
Burgers. Billy Bob’s is a greasy-spoon institution that has long served delicious sweets and tasty American food on the strip in Branson. There are 24
flavors of fried pies here, cheeseburgers (pro tip: top them with grilled onions), foot-long hot dogs with chili and cheese and more. $ L D
937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield
Chili. This local favorite is getting settled into a new location on Glenstone Avenue that’s filled with bright colors and a kitschy vibe that’s both Casper’sfamiliar and also brand new. The spot serves overflowing bowls of great chili and a few other yummy diner options (like burgers and hot dogs). Don’t forget to order some luscious chili cheese fries while you’re there. Another yummy favorite: ham and beans with cornbread when you can get it on special. $ B L D
DRUFF’S
331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-7191719, yumdru s.com
Grilled cheese. Dru ’s brings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses, soups and creative sides. For a little heat, try the Good Doctor, made with cheddar, cream cheese, bacon and jalapeño, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a Nutella and strawberry grilled sando—it’s nuts. Dru ’s also o ers a robust brunch and breakfast menu. We love the breakfast bowls, especially the Swipe Right with eggs, hash browns, jalapenos, avocado, bacon and cheddar. $ L D
RED’S GIANT HAMBURG
2301 W. Sunshine St., Springfield
Burgers. A revival of the Route 66 staple (the original Red’s is rumored to be the country’s first drive-through restaurant), this diner serves up as much nostalgia as it does classic burgers. Opt for
Here’s some pretty exciting news for our readers located a little farther north. Big Whiskey’s American Restaurant & Bar has opened a new location at 2540 Granite Lane in Lebanon and is debuting a new concept there called The Whiskey’s Yard. This outdoor area will be fully stocked with yard games like cornhole, bocce ball and putt-putt, plus a cozy repit and full bar service. It sounds to us like the perfect place to unwind after a day trip to Ha Ha Tonka.—Tessa Cooper
the stacked high griddle burgers served with fries or onion rings, slurp on a malt or milkshake, or try out some of the newer gluten-free options. Check out the breakfast menu if you’re up early. $ B L D
404 RB Road, Stockton, 417-276-6302
Burgers. Head up to Stockton to try one of the yummiest and most unusual burgers in 417-land. Order the Squeeze with Cheese, a ⅓-pound griddle-cooked burger that’s smothered in so much shredded cheddar cheese that it overflows the patty and creates a “cheese skirt” of crunchy cheddar. It’s huge and so delicious! We really like the French fries here, too. This spot accepts cash or checks only. $ L D d
INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL
2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill.com
Come to this yummy little spot on the Branson strip to indulge in some tasty Indian fare. We loved the karahi lamb (tender lamb, bell peppers and onion in a spicy sauce) and the mushroom aloo matar (mushrooms, potatoes and peas swimming in a creamy sauce). $$ L D
NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR
3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050
TAJ GRILL
4538 Highway 43, Joplin, 417-659-8876, facebook. com/tajgrilljoplin
This Joplin spot serves your favorite classic Indian dishes, like karahi chicken, malai ko a and more. For dessert, try the ras malai. Come for breakfast as well, when you can get dishes like masala omelets and stu ed aloo paratha flatbread. Look for the barbecue specials too: sea-
Find all your favorite classic Indian dishes here (the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are both excellent) along with some others you might not have seen around town before. For example, the gol gappay is a crispy little hollow fried ball filled with chickpeas, potato, onion and spices. We love the ras malai dessert: homemade cheese in a sweet, milky, cardamom-infused sauce. $$ L D
soned, grilled chicken leg quarters. $–$$ B L D
TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT
1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573
You can find all your Indian favorites here on the large menu. There is a variety of naan bread (and it’s so, so so and perfect), many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts like rice pudding and gulab jamun (donuts soaked in syrup). We are obsessed with the lamb rogan josh and the chicken jalfrezi, and the bhindi masala (an okra dish) is a favorite too. Be sure to try their lunch combos, which are a steal and always taste so good.
$$ L D d
ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE
311 S. Je erson Ave., Springfield, 417-3514400, zaykaspringfield. com
week. Customers love the Bistecca Rosemarino steak and the pasta with seafood in a spicy tomato-based sauce. Indulge in the luscious chocolate torte for dessert. $$$ L D d
BAMBINO’S CAFÉ
1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8814442; bambinoscafe.com
This little Italian eatery serves hearty helpings of tasty Italian fare that won’t break the bank, available at two 417-land locations. The Poppa is a popular pasta dish: It comes with penne pasta, Italian sausage, mushrooms and a spicy tomato-cream sauce. The Delmar location is great for a meal alfresco. $ L D d
BASILICO ITALIAN CAFE
They bake bread and pizza dough from scratch every day. Our favorite pasta is the mushroom ravioli, which is so indulgent and so delish. $ L D
416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007
The bucatini with panchetta, chili oil and basil is a must-try pasta dish. Get it with the arugula salad with pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. Also on the menu is pizza, wagyu steak and lots of excellent entree options. The ever-changing specials always sound extra-tasty, like the recent o ering of shellfish arancini. $$$ D
2690 Green Mountain Drive, Branson, 417-3379882, florentinasristoranteitaliano.com
KOREAN CUISINE!
HOURS: MONDAY–FRIDAY: 10:30 A.M.–2 P.M., 4–9 P.M. SATURDAY 10:30 A.M.–9 P.M.
CALL 417.890.1016 TO ORDER VIEW MENU ON OR GRUBHUB 1440 W. REPUBLIC ROAD, SUITE 120
There’s a lot to love about this downtown Springfield Indian restaurant. The vegetable korma, chicken tikka masala and malai ko a are just a few of our favorite dishes. If you’re new to Indian food, try the pre-set combo meals that feature a lot of di erent flavors. For dessert, you can’t beat a bowl of warm gulab jamun sweet pastry balls. The lunch bu et is also killer when it’s open.
$–$$ LD d
AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING
3240 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-567-3463,avanzareitaliandining.com
Pasta is always a hit at Avanzare, a longtime Springfield favorite. Veal dishes are top-notch at this Italian eatery, but you’ll have to pick the right night, as they’re only served once or twice a
306 Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8739224, basilicoitaliancafe. com
Don’t miss the delicious tortellini carbonara here, or the penne pesto cream with chicken (a dreamy combo of Alfredo and pesto sauces). The lobster and shrimp ravioli in spinach-mushroom sauce is another delight; get it with the freshly made bread. The Italian cream cake is a great option for dessert, and so is the carrot cake. In fact, we’ve heard it’s some of the best carrot cake around. $$ L D d
4560 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7204414, bellacinos.com Bellacino’s is known for its grinders––Yankee speak for sub sandwiches––but pizza, pastas and salads also make an appearance on the menu. We can’t wait to try the house special, which is the Italian grinder:
When you’re hungry for Italian fare during your vacation in Branson, this Italian eatery is the place to go. It serves delicious brick-oven pizzas and pastas on a big menu that has a little something for everyone. Customers enjoy the rigatoni Florentina and lobster mac. $$ L D d
820 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8626400, gilardisonwalnut. com
Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little Italian restaurant that makes a wonderful date-night spot. Don’t miss the amazing meatballs in red wine rosemary cream sauce that are served over a bed of creamy goat cheese polenta. And be sure to dine in the outdoor seating area when the weather allows—it’s a peaceful experience. Open Mon.–Sat., 5–10 p.m. $$$ D d
600 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-9208850, thehilldining.com
Come hungry to The Hill, chef Angel Kim’s all-youcan-eat destination o ering a wide variety of Italian fare in a fine-dining atmosphere. Fill up on plenty of pastas, brick-oven pizzas, soups, salads, crepes and specialty desserts at stations dedicated to those and other mouthwatering items.
$–$$ L D
3631 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8863700, nicolasspringfield. com
This restaurant serves a delicious sea bass. Try the lumache: fresh snails sauteed in garlic butter and baked with Parmesan cheese. Gluten-free pasta and pizza are available. The chicken parmigiano is a highlight definitely worth ordering. The Nicola’s pizza here is also super tasty, and the dessert menu is impressive. Enjoy the spacious outdoor patio when the weather permits, or belly up to the bar for happy hour with friends. $$–$$$ D d
306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-8311222, nonnascafe.net. Italian
The seafood lasagna is a must-try dish, and the spicy arrabbiata lasagna is crazy-good. And then there’s that drool-worthy deep-fried lasagna. Basically, if the dish has “lasagna” in its name, you know it’ll be good at Nonna’s. The Tuscan pappardelle ragu is excellent, and the pesto linguine is a delight. For dessert, we particularly love the delectable chocolate torte and the rich and delicious tiramisu. Plus, the homemade cheesecakes are
always top-notch. Nonna’s also does a Sunday brunch with regular menu items from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. $$ L D
3129 W. 76th Country Blvd., Branson, 417335-0690, bransonsbestrestaurant.com
Head to Pasghetti’s in Branson for a family-friendly atmosphere and all your favorite classic Italian-American staples. We’ve also heard the Alfredo sauce is divine. Try the lemony chicken piccata for dinner, and follow it up with a plate of sweetand-flu y tiramisu for dessert. Customer favorites include the Pasghetti and Meatball, the sausage rigatoni and the chicken Parmesan. This place is huge and boasts some wild features, like a giant meatball that you walk through at the entrance, two trolley cars, a game room and even a working Ferris wheel. $–$$ L D
PASTA EXPRESS
Multiple 417-land locations, pastaexpress.com
When you’re in a hurry and only pasta will satisfy your appetite, this place is a good bet. The baked mostaccioli is a favorite, and it’s smothered in tons of ooey-gooey melted cheese for a comforting, nostalgic flavor. The house salad is also delish here; make sure you ask for it with cheese and tomatoes . Don’t miss the tasty and indulgent hot Pasta Express sandwich topped with lots of salami and some of the tasty salad. $ L D
PICCOLO
107 West Aldersgate Drive, Suites 1 and 2, Nixa, 417-374-7291, eatpiccolo. com
When you’re craving indulgent Italian fare, Piccolo delivers with a range of piled-high pastas, pizzas, steak and chicken entrees. Start things o with
Hours: Fri–Sat: 11am–9pm Wed ur , Sun 11 p
Come see us at Garbo’s Pizzeria where St. Louis style meets Springfield tradition estled in hesterfield illage, our handcra ted pi as, pastas, appeti ers and a ard inning salads are sure to ma e this spot your avorite local hangout.
101 W. e erfield l d., 101 417-883-9010 | garbospizzeria.com
Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am–1:15am Sun: 11am–12am
Celebrate community at Georgia Mac’s,your go-tosports pub& grill.Enjoy homemade southern comfort foods and specialty drinks, creating theperfect backdrop for memorable moments.Visit georgiamacs.com
1440 E. Republic Road 417-319-5770 | georgiamacs.com
the Italian Nachos (fried wonton chips, homemade Alfredo sauce and toppings), or the Balboa balls, juicy meatballs stu ed with mozzarella and finished with goat cheese and marinara. Do yourself a favor and leave room for dessert because you won’t want to miss the incredible cannolis. $–$$ L D d
FRESH RISTORANTE ITALIANO
1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com
The menu here is packed with handmade pastas that are freshly cra ed every day. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them making the fresh pasta—you can see it from the dining room. The menu also boasts everything from a fried artichokes appetizer to a Tuscan T-bone steak entree. Plus there are burgers, pizzas and sandwiches too. $–$$ L D d
ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA
1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd
This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai o ers excellent nigiri and sashimi, as well as small plates and tapas. You have to try the delicious tuna cigars or the hot rock dish that uses wagyu beef. For dessert, the matcha crème brûlée is our favorite. Be sure to order from the excellent sake menu. Order a sushi roll alongside some sake. $$–$$$ L D d
CRAFT SUSHI
251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417319-5887, facebook.com/ cra sushi
At Cra Sushi, you’re in control of your meal as you
customize your own sushi and poke bowls. And the best part: It won’t break the bank. Try a salad bowl topped with marinated tofu, asparagus, mushrooms, jalapenos, edamame and spicy wasabi sauce. It’s our favorite! Anything with the raw salmon or the spicy pork is always a hit as well, and there are a ton of topping and veggie options. If you don’t want to make up your own dish, there’s a menu of some pre-designed poke bowls and sushi rolls too. $$ L D
HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR
3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com
The Oh My God roll and the Sex and the City roll are trademarks here. If simple nigiri is your style, you’ll love the tuna sampler. Be sure to venture o the sushi menu and try some of the delectable entrees as well. Don’t miss the bibimbap or the fresh mango-jalapeño ahi tuna entree. If you love a spicy bite, make sure you try the seafood soup. Pair it with a little bit of nigiri or one of the spot’s tasty maki rolls. $$–$$$ LD
HINODE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE
4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777
Come to see the show at the hibachi grills. Hinode is known for wonderful hibachi meals with perfectly cooked proteins and all the extras: rice, stir fry noodles, veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. And don’t forget to try something from the sushi menu. $$
L D
KAI
306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8320077, kaia erdark.com
This lounge-like restaurant in downtown Springfield has fantastic sushi. It has the same owners
as Haruno, which is famous for their incredible rolls—so you know it’ll be delicious! Don’t miss the restaurant’s black cod or sea bass entrees with delicious wasabi risotto. They are just as impressive as the sushi rolls! There are some great cocktail and appetizer options here as well. $$–$$$ L D
KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL 640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225
With Karai, owner Young Jun, of Haruno, Kai and Koriya, takes ramen seriously, and it shows in her food. The Karai Ramen with a flavorful and spicy house-made broth is incredible, and we like to get it with pork and a seasoned so -boiled egg added. For something lighter, the naked ramen with sesame noodles, spinach, wood ear mushrooms, bean sprouts, seaweed and sprinkled with lime is a highlight. Don’t miss the tasty hand rolls or the steamed buns filled with shredded pork, spring onions and teriyaki sauce. The Tonkatsu is a house special, a pork cutlet with Japanese mustard barbecue sauce, shredded cabbage and miso soup. $ L D
MITSU NEKO FUSION CUISINE AND SUSHI BAR
1819 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson 417-336-1819, mitsunekosushi.com
Mitsu Neko has a wide menu variety, but it specializes in two things: sushi rolls and salmon. The seared salmon is a customer favorite. Try the takoyaki octopus pu s appetizer, or the braised pork belly entree. If you like to sample a little bit of a lot of things, order a bento box that comes with your protein of choice, salad, sushi roll, rice and gyoza. $$ L D
NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE
2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8817171, nakato.com
Performance-style hibachi dining is what Nakato is known for. And they are super-good at it! A little entertainment plus a great meal. All of the sushi is top-notch here as well. Don’t miss the Jenny Roll, a favorite. For an appetizer, try the bacon-wrapped scallops, the agedashi tofu or the seafood tempura.
$$ L D
NIJI SUSHI
3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417-851-1707
In addition to a large variety of sushi rolls (we love the Cherry Blossom Roll and the Spicy Yummy Roll), this menu also boasts rainbow-bright cocktails and seven types of ramen soups. Come with friends so you can share and sample lots of rolls. For dessert, try the flu y Japanese cheesecake. $$ L D
SAKURA
3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000
There’s a solid sushi menu (the Sam’s Roll never disappoints if you like a roll with a lot going on), and you can order a sushi donburi box to really get some bang for your buck if you prefer to keep your sushi meals simple and refreshing. The bento boxes are great too, packed with your choice of entree, California roll, rice, salad, miso soup, fruit, spring rolls, veggie tempura and ice cream. We recommend getting teriyaki salmon in your bento box; it’s always delish. $$ L D
SUSHI VILLAGE
1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8901016, facebook.com/ springfieldsushivillage
This cozy sushi spot has a warm date-night atmo-
sphere with cherry blossoms and plants around every corner. All the sushi is fresh and flavorful, but some custom creations pack fun ingredient combos. $$ L D
BAWI KOREAN BBQ
4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8862777, bawikbbq.com
Bawi Korean BBQ brings an authentic Korean dining experience to Springfield, where you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 for an all-you-caneat meal. You cook the meat yourself on tabletop grills. Be sure to try their to-go lunch options too, including bowls filled with rice, noodles, veggies and the protein and sauce of your choice. Keep an eye out for Korean-style fried chicken, sometimes offered on special. $$ D
GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT
1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093
This spot serves up delicious and authentic Korean food. The beef bulgogi and dolsot bibimbap are best sellers here. We also love the fried dumplings and kimbop. Try the tasty kimchi fried rice or spicy octopus stir fry. If you’re in the mood for something really comforting on a cold day, opt for the kimchi chigae. You also get a variety of Korean side dishes alongside your meal, which adds a lot of fun and flavor to the meal. $ L D
KORIYA
4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077
This spot serves createyour-own bibimbap dishes, and you can choose between chicken, beef bulgogi, tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the japchae, made with slippery
and sweet stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies—it’s fun to eat and so satisfying. Don’t miss the zaru soba if you’re in the mood for something lighter. You can also find ramen, stir fried noodles, beef bulgogi dishes, wonderful steamed dumplings (with the best sauce!) and much more. $ L D d
320 E. Walnut St., 417597-3382, greekbelly.com
We love everything we’ve tasted here! Try a tasty pork or chicken gyro topped with creamy tzatziki, tomatoes, onions and French fries on a so pita. Our favorite, though, is the loukaniko wrap. It’s an orange-spiced pork sausage served in a pita with spicy feta dip, fresh veggies and French fries. For dessert, don’t miss the truly to-diefor ice cream topped with baklava and honey-cinnamon-citrus syrup. $ L D
338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677
The kibbeh is fantastic if you like herbaceous and satisfying eats, and any of the delicious and meaty kebabs is a great choice. We love the stu ed grape leaves appetizer, served with a delicious tahini dipping sauce. The falafel mushakal sandwich is great too, with falafel, baba ghanouj, French fries, fresh veggies, pickled turnips and tahini. There are plenty of options for diners with vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. $–$$ L D
900 E. Battlefield, Suite 120, Springfield, 417-3069087
You can find tender and delicious steak and chicken kebabs (or chicken or beef shawarma), served
with flavorful rice, fresh baladi salad and so pita. Vegetarians can opt for a similar combo, but with falafel instead of meat. You can even get all those proteins served up as a wrap. As for sides, the lentil soup and the hummus are both great options. For dessert, get a fully loaded crepe. $$ L D
3200 Gretna Road, Suite D, Branson, 417-3349182, vaskensdeli.com
The gyros are fantastic here. Make sure you get them with traditional gyro meat, and don’t skip the tzatziki sauce! Everything’s better with tzatziki sauce, right? We are nuts for the beef shawarma too, though. It makes for a super delicious and satisfying meal and tastes amazing with tahini. $ L D
CABOS BONITOS
GRILL & CANTINA
406 South Ave., Springfield, 417-221-3490
Come to this downtown Springfield spot for all your Mexican favorites plus some fun and unique dishes like the fried avocado appetizer. It has beer-battered avocado halves filled with your choice of meat and topped with sour cream and chipotle ranch sauce. $$ L D
1001 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-3346052, cantinalaredo.com
Cantina Laredo is a great option if you’re exploring Branson and have a hankering for Mexican food. Located on Branson Landing, it has a great view of the choreographed fountain and of Lake Taneycomo and the blu s across the water. The menu is varies, and we especially love the salsas. $$ L D
Indulge in Vandivort-Style Cashew Chicken and savor the reshest flavors in the ar s at he rder. he seasonal menu o ers a modern t ist on Missouri cuisine, featuring locally sourced ingredients and e pertly cra ted coc tails. Don’t orget to plan ahead or complimentary valet service ith your dinner reservations.
05 . W lnu S ., Springfield 41 51 5 e rder g .c
Savor the soul of Cuba at La Habana Vieja! Relish authentic dishes and dance the night away at our electrifying Latin Dance Nights every last Saturday of the month!
0 . eric l S ., Springfield 417-771-5723 | la-habana-vieja.com
\CASA BELLA MEXICAN CUISINE
4610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7715031; 300 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417885-9097
The menu is huge at Casa Bella, which has two Springfield locations. Try the tasty ceviche, any of the street tacos, or the spicy camarones a la diabla. The Battlefield restaurant location is huge too, so there’s plenty of room to bring your whole crew for some Mexican eats. $$ L D
CATRINA’S MODERN MEXICAN
2925 Battlefield Road, Suite 105, Springfield, 417-350-1006, catrinascantina.com
This spot serves authentic shareable dishes and full entrees. Look for handcrushed guacamole that can be loaded up with chicharron. The grilled plantains are a treat! Some of our favorite entrees are the sopes topped with shredded beef, the spicy Yucatan shrimp and the Catrina quesadilla. The cocktail menu is excellent here too. $$ L D d
CESAR’S OLD
2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-881-8252
Indulge in authentic Mexican food at incredibly reasonable prices. We love the birria taco, which is filled with succulent shredded beef. Don’t miss the Salvadorian pupusas stu ed with beans and cheese; they are delightful. The carnitas torta is also excellent. It’s huge and is stu ed with savory carnitas, topped with melted cheese, tomatoes, lettuce and mayo and then sandwiched between a pillowy bun. Need we say more? $ L D
EL PARAISO MEXICAN KITCHEN
610 W. College St., Springfield, 417-771-
5641; 305 E. Chestnut St., Suite C, Stra ord, 417736-0019; elparaisokitchen.com
This Stra ord-based Mexican restaurant now has an outpost in Downtown Springfield too. They are known for a great lineup of margaritas and all your favorite Mexican dishes. For an app, try the flaming cheese or the ceviche. For an entree, try the piña a la parrilla—a fresh pineapple bowl filled with grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, scallops, veggies and more. $$ L D
IGUANA ROJA
107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO-13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net
There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery located on the square in Ozark. Don’t miss the one made with jalapeños; it has a kick that’s so much fun to drink. The chips are excellent here, with a yummy seasoning sprinkled on top of every one. $–$$ L D
LA PALOMA
3041 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7194484, dienlapaloma.com; 1425 W. Battlefield St., Springfield, 417-8892985, thelapaloma.com
This spot o ers a huge range of Mexican dishes including fish tacos, which are excellent. Battered and fried fish is topped with fresh pic de gallo, cabbage and a creamy chipotle sauce and then served with Mexican white rice. $–$$ L D d
MEXICAN VILLA
Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net
This spot is a favorite among longtime Springfield locals, and it is known for its sweet sauce served with tortilla chips. Also popular is the Sancho Enchilada Style—a huge burrito that is completely swimming in red enchi-
lada sauce. Kids love the chicken fingers, and you can even purchase the sweet salsa in a jar to go. $ L D d
PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8901212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com
Diners love the pollo abovado, an 8-ounce chicken breast that’s grilled and topped with homemade chorizo, white queso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos: three so corn tortillas filled with steak, cilantro and onions and served with rice, beans and avocado. $–$$ L D
PURPLE BURRITO
1700 S. Campbell Ave., Suite A, Springfield, 417863-6688
We love the street-style tacos. The pastor taco with onions and cilantro is great. And the fish tacos are some of our favorite fish tacos anywhere. A dinner favorite is the carne asada burrito. For something a little di erent and a lot indulgent, try the super-cheesy chili relleno burrito. $ B L D
SEÑOR JULIAN
MEXICAN BAR & GRILL
3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-240-2120
This tiny restaurant packs big flavors, with a menu that features traditional Mexican soups, handmade-to-order flour tortillas, quesabirria tacos, massive quesadillas, fajita baked potatoes and more. The tacos especiales are a favorite, filled with carne asada, cilantro, onions, queso fresco and avocado. If you like pozole, come on the weekends when they serve both that and menudo. Don’t miss the huge margaritas menu, featuring fun options like their man-
gonada margarita and a great selection of tequilas. $–$$ L D
1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf. com
Let the little ruby-red building near Pickwick Avenue and Cherry Street be your guiding beacon to flavor-packed tacos, nachos and rice bowls. This tiny cafe serves major flavors in its taco menu. We’re fans of the Globetrotter pork belly taco, and we always have to taste test the Ringer, the shop’s rotating special taco. We also love the tequila- and mezcal-based cocktails that pair so well with all those tasty tacos with their big flavors. $ L D d
TINGA TACOS
308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318007, tingatacossgf.com
This downtown taco shop is open late slinging shells of its wildly creative combinations. We are partial to the Fu Yu made with super-flavorful marinated tofu or the Fruity Piggles with juicy pork and fig jam for a salty-sweet combination. $ L D
1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-864-8195
This tiny little authentic Mexican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a Mexican soda, a traditional Mexican soup or a tamale when you visit. Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays and Tamale Thursdays, where the dishes are only a dollar. $ B L D
NOODLE 21
2001 State Highway 248, Suites 1 & 2, Branson Pan-Asian. Here you’ll find dishes from Korean, Japanese, Chinese and
Thai cuisines, including a menu of freshly made sushi rolls. Try the hot stone bibimbap, pho and ramen soups, or the teriyaki bowls. Pop into Dessert 21 next door for co ee drinks and bingsu desserts: chipped ice topped with a variety of sweets like fruit, brownies, mochi, sweet red bean and more. $–$$ L D
4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8899596, eatoceanzen.com Asian fusion fine dining. Try Chilean sea bass or the macadamia nut chicken. We particularly love ordering the Hawaii Five-O sushi roll; with seared rare tuna and a pineapple salsa, it’s a tasty combination of savory, sweet, spicy and refreshing. Don’t miss the delicious top-notch steaks that are on the menu here, too. $$–$$$ L D d
THE WHEELHOUSE
1845 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-4300400, wheelhousefood. com.
Thai-Mexican fusion. The pineapple fried rice is a fan favorite at this ThaiMexican fusion spot, but you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. We always go for the kimchi-falafel tacos. They are bursting with great tastes and pack some seriously spicy heat thanks to the homemade kimchi. $ B L D
ARRIS’ PIZZA
1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8817260, arrispizzaonline. com
Greek-influenced. Thincrust pizzas have a Greek flair at Arris’ Pizza. Be sure to order the Athena (a pizza made with feta, pepperoni, olives, mushrooms and green peppers) if you want to try one that bursts with
flavor. The bruschetta is a great appetizer, and it’s unlike bruschetta we’ve had other places. $–$$ L D
THE BIG SLICE
1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7201928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com
New York–style. You can get big New York–style brick oven pizza by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer, but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pizza. We love the creamy spinach pizza too, when we’re in the mood for a white pie. The gigantic pepperonis are a wonderful topping too. They are the same pepperonis used in the addictively good pepperoni pinwheels. $–$$ L D
CARMINE’S WOODFIRED PIZZA
524 South Joplin Avenue, Joplin, 417-691-8523, carmineswoodfiredpizza. com
New York–style. You can find truly excellent New York–style, Neapolitanstyle and Detroit-style pizza at Carmine’s. We love Neapolitan the best, and the La Rughetta topping combo (mozzarella, prosciutto, grape tomatoes, shaved Parmesan and arugula) is our favorite. Don’t miss the calzones, pasta dishes, and gelato while you are there. $$ L D
GARBO’S PIZZERIA
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-8839010, garbospizzeria.com
St. Louis–style. If you love a loaded St. Louis–style pizza, try the toppings-packed Grandiose. Or try the Bavarian pizza for something a little different; it is topped with Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. Customers are big fans of the Garbo’s house salad and its tasty home-
made dressing. $–$$ L D d
HOOK & LADDER
PIZZA CO.
26 Downing St., Hollister, 417-336-4665, hookandladderpizza.com
Hand-tossed. If you find yourself in Hollister and craving some pizza, stop at Hook & Ladder Pizza Co. This spot serves all your pizzeria favorites, from toasted ravioli to sub sandwiches. The specialty pizzas look great, like the Alfredo or the chicken bacon ranch. $$ L D
IMO’S PIZZA
600 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-8621222; 636 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417886-4667; imospizza.com
St. Louis–style. A true St. Louis–style original, Imo’s serves pizza on cracker-thin crust with lots of provel cheese. We like the tasty Deluxe pizza. But our favorite is the simple combo of mushrooms and Italian sausage. The cheesy bread is ridiculously indulgent and covered in a thick layer of melted provel cheese. $–$$ L D d
MASO PIZZA BAR
3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1047
Wood-fired. Maso Pizza Bar is owned by Nicola Gilardi and located just a few door down from his other restaurant, Nicola’s Ristorante. And just like at Nicola’s, everything on the menu is delish. We can’t wait to try options like the Nic Rise and Shine, Italian Stallion and vegetarian-friendly Monica Healthy pies. The menu also spans salads, panini, pasta, soups and more. $$ D d
MCSALTY’S PIZZA
CAFÉ
1550 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-883-4324
Hand-tossed. A mainstay in Springfield, McSalty’s
Hours: Sun: 11:00am–5:00pm Mon–Fri: 11am–8:30pm Sat: 11:00am–9:30pm
Discover the The Mandarin and other delights at Leong’s Asian Diner, Springfield’s culinary gem. Enjoy authentic flavors, friendly service and a legacy of delicious Asian cuisine.
1540 W. Republic Rd., Springfield 417-887-7500 | leongsasiandiner.com
Habanero’s Mexican Restaurant + Cantina has become a local favorite, expanding to multiple locations across the Ozarks. E perience vi rant flavors, estive am iance and authentic Mexican cuisine!
r ge, Springfield, Republic, ing S n plin b ner e ic nc n in .c
serves delicious pizza and has been part of the Springfield landscape forever. The Bear Pie is a tasty supreme that’s loaded up with lots of toppings. There are also sub sandwiches.
$ L D
202 N. Commercial St., Branson, 417-335-8156, mrgschicagopizza.com
Chicago-style. There’s a lot to like about this Branson pizza joint: a family-friendly atmosphere, hearty Italian food and excellent Chicago-style pizza. They make all of the pizza dough from scratch. For a hearty taste, dig in to the supreme pizza, with homemade sausage, pepperoni and lots of veggies.
$$ L D
PAPPO’S PIZZERIA
221 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8661111; 900 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417306-9091; pappospizzeria.com
Stonebaked. Try the spicy chicken Cholula pie topped with a mixture of red sauce and olive oil, grilled chicken marinated in Cholula sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, red onions, cilantro. Also, be sure you try the meatballs. We really like the salads here as well. $–$$ L D
PITCH PIZZA & PUB
2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-368-0277 Hand-tossed. With a menu full of pizza, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pub fare and a killer beer selection, there’s something to please everyone. We love to build our own pizza with Alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. Be sure to order the Brussels sprouts appetizer; they are flash fried and crispy, served with crispy potatoes, lardons, goat cheese and a balsamic reduction drizzle.
Try the carrot cake for dessert. $$ L D
PIZANO’S PIZZA
106 E. Jackson St., Willard, 417-742-5115, pizanoandsauce.com
New York–style. You can get a little bit of New York up in Willard at this pizzeria. This spot serves New York–style pizza in addition to calzones, sub sandwiches and pasta. Dough is made fresh daily, and there’s even a gluten-free option. $–$$ L D
PIZZA HOUSE
312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-881-4073
Thin-crust. This restaurant has been a tradition in Springfield for more than 50 years, and the pizza they serve is super-thin and cut into super-tiny pieces. It’s a classic that’s not to be missed and is a favorite of lifelong locals. Our favorite thing there: any pizza that includes bacon. $ L D
ROCCO’S PIZZA & SUBS
Multiple 417-land locations; roccospizzaandsubs. com
New York–style. This Italian eatery specializes in New York–style pizza that has anybody who’s been to the east coast swooning. It’s legit. Also on the menu are hot subs, like meatball or eggplant Parmesan, plus salads, calzones and a handful of pasta entrees.
$–$$ L D
ANDY B’S TIKI BAR
433 Promenade Way, Branson, 417-213-8631, bransontikibar.com
Big news for lovers of island-style bevs and casual hangout spots: Andy B’s Tiki Bar has opened on Branson Landing, and it’s an extension of Springfield’s Andy B’s Bowl Social. Andy B’s Tiki
Bar has a view of Lake Taneycomo, where guests can order tiki drinks, beer and other drinks. We’re eying the “Pin Killer,” the bar’s take on a painkiller. $
2940 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, beforeandaerbrewhouse
There are excellent beers, espresso drinks and cocktails on the menu here, along with zero-proof cocktails. As for what to eat, the snacks are stellar here. The loaded hot pretzel is an indulgence, and they serve tasty boards (with all the accouterments) that feature high-end tinned fish as the centerpiece. $$ L D
313-B S. Je erson Ave., Springfield; 417-5229009; bestofluckbeerhall. com
This downtown beer hall combines backyard charm with killer food and more beers than you can count. If suds aren’t your thing, try a seasonal cocktail or one of the dra alcoholic punches. The extensive food menu includes flavor spins on cookout favorites, like juicy cheddarwurst brats, salty shoestring fries with dipping sauces, and kimchi-spiked fried chicken sandwiches. The beer hall also has a faux turf lawn available for rent for games of bocce, bags and more.
$$ B L D d
1521 E. Broadway St., Joplin, 417-553-0665
Damien Tiregol of Crabby’s Seafood Bar & Grill now has another Joplin eatery. Blackstone Gastropub features hand-cra ed cocktails and 16 beers on tap alongside some great-looking eats like the crispy fried chicken, grilled salmon on a bed of gnocchi. Keep an eye out for Blackstone’s
super-creative daily specials. Recently, we’ve seen a Seattle Roll with smoked burnt-end sausage and a ton of toppings, and smash-burger grilled tacos with jalapeño-ranch slaw.
$ $ L D
2040 E. Independence St., 417-887-0100
This brewpub has its own beer plus local beer that can be hard to find elsewhere. Here the menu is vast and the food is tasty. We enjoyed the burgers, and the apps menu included some super tasty options. This spot is also known for its cauliflower pizza crust that is super-delish and perfect for anybody trying to avoid wheat If you want to watch a game, there are tons of TVs. $$ L D
507 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-3512824, thecellar.springfieldbrewingco.com
Created by the team behind Springfield Brewing Company (and located just around the corner from it), The Cellar is a casual setting for small bites and creative cocktails. Munch on popcorn garnished with fresh Parmesan and house-made portobello jerky while you sip on a cra cocktail and enjoy a rotation of live music. $ D
2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-3681739, cellarandplate.wine
At Cellar+Plate you can get exceptional wine and tasty food in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Customers love the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. Don’t miss the Cellar Board with meats, cheeses and fruits. And as you can probably guess from the name, Cellar+Plate has a great wine menu. $$ D d
CIVIL KITCHEN & TAP
107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-501-8456, civilkitchenandtap.com
With 28 beers on tap and chicken and wa es on the menu, it is easy to see the appeal of this rustic-but-comfortable restaurant and bar. Specializing in upscale comfort food, Civil Kitchen and Tap draws inspo from Southern and Midwestern staples. Some favorite dishes include salmon with fruit pico de gallo, crispy charred Brussels sprouts, huge salads and truly indulgent and gigantic battered onion rings. $ B L D d
At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417243-3433
Just across the street from Branson Landing at the Hilton Branson Convention Center is Clear Lounge, a great place to grab a cocktail with friends. This spot is home to tasty food, good music and fun drinks. Hours vary; open 6–10 p.m. at press time. D d
COYOTE’S ADOBE CAFÉ & BAR
1742 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8897120; 807 N. Main St., Nixa, 417-725-6803, coyotes4wings.com
This spot is known for its 40 flavors of chicken wings, from common (buffalo) to unexpected (tandoori spice). $ B L D •d
ERNIE BIGG’S DUELING PIANO BAR
505 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-2393670, erniebiggs.com
This piano bar serves up more than great tunes. The Branson Landing location has a small but yummy menu of gourmet pub grub filled with apps, sandwiches and pizza. Pizzas are thin crust. D d
GALLOWAY STATION
1281 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-9730
We love the Rajun Cajun burger; it’s big, hearty and always delicious. Plus, we can’t get enough of the fries and freshly made potato chip. Order them with a side of the spicy ranch dressing for dipping. The chicken wraps are another longtime customer favorite at Galloway Station, and there’s a reason for it. It’s a classic. $ L D d
GEORGIA MAC’S
1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3195770, georgiamacs.com
The food is hearty and comforting with a southern flare at this south Springfield eatery. You can find loaded burgers (like the one topped with jalapeño bottle caps), fried catfish, country fried steak, loaded fries with tons of toppings, and lots more. The chicken fingers are some of the best we’ve ever had (get them with sweet potato fries), and the Georgia Hot Chicken sandwich packs a big flavor with mild heat. $ $ L D
HARRY’S COCKTAIL LOUNGE & BAR
at Big Cedar Lodge, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-339-5200, bigcedar.com/dining
This chic cocktail spot is located downstairs at the Worman House on the Big Cedar Lodge property. It’s a great place to stop by for a drink (they have excellent cocktails and a great wine and whiskey selection), and they also o er a rotating menu of small plates and appetizers. We loved the short rib sliders. Tuesday–Thursday 5–10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 3–11 p.m. $–$$ L D d
THE GOLDEN
137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-4255162, thegoldengirl.com
This rum bar on the southwest corner of Park Central Square (with a great people-watching patio space) serves up handcra ed cocktails and a madefrom-scratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. Try the Thai sticky wings for an unusual twist on a bar staple. Be sure to try the tacos, ramen and artisan pizzas. The pizza specials always come topped with creative ingredients for a seriously delicious and shareable pie. As for drinks, everything on the menu is reliable well-done. Our favorite: Mr Guava Lava, which is both fruity and spicy. $ L D d
J.O.B.
319 E. Walnut St., Springfield, job417.com
This spot is known for its excellent bourbon selection and elevated bar food. Longtime favorites include the Full Ride burger, the Codi Brah falafel sandwich, and the pepperoni pizza balls. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the O ce Crush, made with Rittenhouse Rye, housemade peach and black tea syrup, lemon juice and peach puree. $$ L D
318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688900, lindbergsbar.com
Forget about basic bar food. This storied watering hole goes above and beyond with creative takes on hearty comfort food classics. The burgers are delicious, but honestly everything we’ve tried has been impressive. The specials are always beautifully creative, and the Sunday brunch is one of the best around. $ L D d
OUTBACK PUB
1924 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-7003, outbackbranson.com
This Australian–inspired spot located along the strip in Branson boasts
two bars, an outdoor party deck and extensive beer list. There is live music most evenings. What should you order to eat? We recommend you try the cornmeal-breaded catfish.
$ L D d
1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, theroyalmusichall.com
This tiny and beautiful spot serves well-cra ed cocktails, bottled cocktails and finger foods like warm olives or rosemary and bitters glazed nuts. Be sure to visit when there is live music. $
305 S. Market Ave., Springfield, 417-8328277, springfieldbrewingco.com
Try the fish and chips
paired with the beers that are brewed on-site. Also delicious are the burgers and the mac and cheese. Live music. $ $ B L D d
SWEET BOY’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR
310 South Ave., Springfield, 417-7194224, sweetboysbar.com
Come for pinball, a laidback atmosphere and a small but very well done cocktail list. For something more like dessert, try the HellBoy, a frozen Irish co ee with a Fat Boy’s ice cream sandwich. $
2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7731985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-773-1985, vcellars.com
ICYMI: Sleepy Opossum Cafe left the nest (aka The Royal) and moved two doors down to 1423 E. Cherry St., Ste. 101. It opened in late-September. When you visit, expect lots of exciting changes, including table service and an expanded latte and cocktail menu. The food menu is very vegetable-forward, with a focus on seasonal produce from local farms. They are serving freshly prepared hot food for breakfast and dinner and won’t be taking any call-ahead orders. However, their frozen TV dinners will be making a comeback if you need to head out in a ji y. We’re already counting down the days.—Tessa Cooper
Small plates, snacks and tapas make up the menu at this comfortable spot.
$ L D
W.F. CODY’S
3138 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-8083
The cheeseburgers are a specialty at this restaurant, and they are enormous. Don’t miss the ham and cheese sandwiches, another customer favorite.
$ L D
815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com
This Joplin hot-spot serves some fantastic seafood, and we’ve enjoyed everything we’ve tried there. The Chilean sea bass is a
specialty. Try some of the small plates, like portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. There are also some great entree salad options. $$–$$$ L D
Call for directions to the ranch in Rockbridge; 4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo. com
This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that specializes in all things trout. The super-fresh fish dishes are made with trout that are caught on the property. We love the trio appetizer, which comes with trout salad, smoked trout and a trout dip that is so craveable! For an entree, try the blackened trout dish. There’s also an on-site bar, The Grist Mill located in a historic former riverside mill. $ B L D
260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8511768; roo opvantage.com This roo op bar at Hotel Vandivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and even o ers dining igloos in the winter so you can enjoy the scene all year long. The cocktails are refreshingly creative and classically well-done, and the menu of shareables and snacks bring the concept of bar food up several notches with items like the pork rillette tartine. Make sure you try something from the super-fresh, beautifully prepared raw bar. The pickled shrimp and scallop ceviche are two of our faves. $$ d
5 Bass Pro Drive, Branson, 417-243-5100, whiteriverfishhouse.com
The freshwater fish is great, especially the al-
mond-crusted trout or cornmeal-fried catfish. Try the salt and pepper calamari for an appetizer, or dig into the seasonal smoked fish dip. You can also find non-fish dishes like burgers, fried chicken an barbecue ribs on the menu too. $$ L D d
CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR
1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-823-8383
The former Touch Restaurant & Oyster Bar retains some standby dishes like bacon-wrapped dates and chicken Bijan in its new iteration as Char Steakhouse & Oyster Bar (owned by the same people), but o erings of Waygu steaks, lamb shank and fish dishes up the ante. Indulgent lobster potato puree and crispy flashfried Brussels sprouts round out the side dishes, and raw oysters, ceviche and bone marrow pique the appetite as starters. Be sure to get something o the extensive wine list.
$$$ D d
FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
314 W. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8624444, flamesteakhouse. com
The restaurant specializes in dry-aged steaks that are truly delicious. Don’t miss the lobster macaroni and cheese (we’re serious; you have to try this stu ). The desserts are always divine, and we can’t get enough of the appetizer menu. Head to Red Room downstairs for killer happy hour food and drink specials. (Don’t miss the burgers at happy hour! They are delish and such a bargain.) $$$ D
1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-886-
5466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com
We love the tasty steaks here. They are always prepared perfectly. The stu ed Peppadew peppers are a must-try appetizer; trust us, you need to taste those things! The peppers are stu ed with cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. And if you love a good salad bar, Jimm’s has one of the best. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the o -menu smothered rib-eye for a little decadence. Desserts are always a treat here as well. $$–$$$ L D
The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3443, level2steakhouse.com
This Branson restaurant specializes in steaks, but its gooey butter cake dessert is gaining a following. Try the Kansas City strip steak and the egg noodles with cheese. If you like to start your meal with greens, the Caesar salad is a must-try; it comes topped with delicious fried anchovies. Also, don’t miss the fresh Hawaiian ahi tuna served on a Himalayan salt block: delightful! Don’t sleep on the prime rib dip sandwich, either. $$$ B L D
1914 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-6306, outbackbranson.com
There are plenty of standout dishes at this Australian-themed steakhouse and oyster bar. Outback serves hand-cut, aged steaks using Certified Hereford Beef raised locally. $$ L D d
Downstream Casino Resort, 69300 E. Nee Road, Quapaw, Oklahoma,
1-888-396-7876, downstreamcasino.com
Dry-aged prime steaks are served in this restaurant’s fine-dining atmosphere. The sides are delicious too, with options like garlic potato puree and tru e creamed corn. Be sure to try the charcuterie board with all the usual goodies plus some house-made jam. A er your steakhouse dinner, hop over to the casino for some gaming fun. $$ D
3371 E. Montclair St., Springfield, 417-8818882, rericogrill.com
Are you a huge fan of all things meaty? Try 18 kinds of meat for dinner, all sliced tableside. Dinner comes with beef soup, so rolls and unlimited trips to the cold bar with things like fresh cheese, pasta salads and more. $ L D d
801 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-3340325, saltgrass.com
This spot serves classic steakhouse fare, but with a bit of a Southwest cowboy twist. Try the center-cut filet topped with sautéed mushrooms, or the loaded cheese fries appetizer. If you’re in the mood for southern comfort food, they also have country fried steak. It’s on Branson Landing, so you can walk o your dinner by shopping. $$–$$$ L D
WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE
1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com
Come to Joplin’s Wilder’s Steakhouse to find steaks in all sizes and varieties, all of which are certified black Angus beef and free of hormones and antibiotics. The restaurant’s menu also has a variety of other items like seafood and chicken.
When you’re there, check out the restaurant’s authentic and vintage neon sign that is a Route 66 landmark. $$$ D
BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA
1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8665533, bethsbakeshoppe. com
Try a chicken salad sandwich—served on cinnamon raisin bread. And we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette, and the gigantic couscous salad loaded with fresh veggies and Feta. $ L
MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM AND VINTAGE SUITCASE
211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8867000, robinsvintagesuitcase.com
The daily specials and desserts are the star of this tearoom and pastry shop on Commercial Street. There is always a quiche and soup of the day, plus great desserts. $ L
SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM
107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331
The homemade desserts are to die for. Be sure to order them quickly before they run out—like you might want to order them before you order entrees! Don’t miss the veggie sandwich, strawberry soup or chicken salad. $ L
EVERYDAY THAI
220 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, myeverydaythai.com
This spot serves consistently delicious Thai dishes. Some of our favorites are the tom kha gai soup, the comforting yellow
curry with chicken and the mango sticky rice dessert. $–$$ L D
1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-3204
This restaurant, located inside a charming old house on Historic Walnut Street, features a menu full of delicious Thai tastes in a cozy atmosphere with a shady patio out back. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig into the entrees with an order of delicious curry noodles or a spicy curry option. $–$$ L D d
2808 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8650101, simplythai.com
From the owner of Thai Express, Simply Thai o ers a similar menu of Thai restaurant favorites—and some Springfield-style cashew chicken too. The Thai basil stir fry with tofu is our favorite dish, and the magic noodles never disappoint. $ L D
THAI THAI CUISINE
1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com
Thai Thai Cuisine o ers really great Thai food and a sweet sta . The panang curry is delicious, and it’s served on a little bed of fresh spinach. $–$$ L D
2113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8650101, 417thaiexpress.com
When you visit this friendly spot, don’t miss the Magic Noodle, mango curry chicken and volcano shrimp dishes. They are all tasty. The green curry is delicious, with a sauce so divine you might just want to drink it. $ L D
THAI PALACE
3250 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7715640, thaifoodpalace.com
The menu here is a mix of
Thai food along with some Chinese and Japanese dishes. Try the green curry, the fresh spring rolls, or the tom kha khai soup. Oh, and of course you have to pair it with a sweet Thai iced tea. $–$$ L D
THAI SQUARE
307 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-7715300, facebook.com/ Thaisquare307
From the folks who owner Rama Thai (and located just around the corner from it), Thai Square o ers an excellent menu of Thai food favorites. Our favorite dish is the salmon choo chee, but the spicy papaya salad and the traditional pad Thai are both tied for a close second. $$ L D
THAILAND STATION
1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3501001, thailandstation.net
Find all your favorites (a variety of curries, stir fried noodle dishes and soups) plus some surprises like crispy duck and stir-fried pork belly. We’re super-excited about the salad options, like the som tum (papaya salad) and the laab (ground chicken salad). $ L D
TONG’S THAI RESTAURANT
3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-889-5280
This spot serves up a menu packed with tasty Thai flavors, and the Esarn lettuce wraps are a longtime customer favorite. The fried basa with your choice of one of Tong’s yummy sauces is another fan fave; we like to order it topped with basil sauce. Don’t forget about the Thairito, a dish that’s unique to Tong’s. $–$$ L D
BAMBU
1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-9881
The pho is a specialty here. You can add spice, herbs, jalapeños and sprouts to customize it. (Our favorite: Use all of the herbs, a couple of jalapeños and a squirt of sriracha.) Don’t miss the refreshing bun bowls too! The one made with lemongrass beef is a flavor bomb. The pineapple chicken stir fry entree is another customer favorite. $ L D d
2926 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3513915, facebook.com/ hongyenrestaurant. Come to Hong Yen when you’re in search of excellent beef pho. The chicken pho is pretty good too! Really, anything with noodles is worth a try, and the menu has several clear noodle soups and egg noodle soups in addition to the pho selection. $ L D d
3433-C S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8839999, phokimspringfield. com
Here you can fill up on Vietnamese staples like pho, spring rolls, a variety of bahn mi sandwiches and more. The chicken fried rice is extra crispy, and the chicken pho is just as tasty as the classic beef variety here. We love the fresh spring rolls too. If you aren’t afraid of heat, try the spicy beef noodle soup. Treat yourself to a glass of Vietnamese iced co ee.
$ L D
2640 E. 32nd St., Joplin, 417-627-9966
Come to this spot to indulge in fresh spring rolls, vermicelli noodles, and big helpings of pho with lots of fresh veggies on the side. You can also order boba tea in several flavors with toppings like tapioca pearls, co ee jelly, egg pudding, popping boba and more. $ L D
HEY, WE HAVE A FEW MORE OZARKS MOMENTS TO SHARE WITH YOU BEFORE YOU GO.
Take a sneak peek at Artsfest, one of the biggest outdoor art festivals in southwest Missouri. Attendees stroll downtown Springfield for this event presented by Great Southern Bank and hosted by the Springfield Regional Arts Council. The festival featured over 100 artists from across the country, live entertainment and a variety of local food.
From le to right: Grace & Buddy Sullivan
Continued on p. 116 >>
One of the biggest outdoor art festivals in southwest Missouri, the annual Artsfest in downtown Springfield was presented by Great Southern Bank and hosted by the Springfield Regional Arts Council. The festival featured over 100 artists from across the country, live entertainment and a variety of local food.
Date: May 4–5
Host Organization: Springfield Regional Arts Council
Location: Downtown Springfield
Sponsors: 417 Magazine, Great Southern Bank, Mercy, Mid-West Family Marketing
1. Julie Wiko and Jo Gettle
2. Gracie Collins, Crispin and Hallie Casteel
3. Andrew Batcheller
4. Jennifer Farrar, Rae Snobl, Aaron Rahn
5. Shay and Derek Beuley
6. Josh Porter and Laura Caraway
7. Kenzie Newman and Spencer Larson
Date: May 16
Host Organization: Springfield Symphony Orchestra
Location: Oasis Hotel & Convention Center
Sponsors:
417 Magazine, Dr. Nancy O’Reilly, Nick and Jamie Altrup
1. Randy Mayes, Janice Wilson, Loretta Knutson
2. Krista and Dr. James Slotto
3. Ross and Libby Wiseman
4. Dr. Nancy O’Reilly, Rebecca Hogan, Raylene Appleby
5. Joe and Teri Harper
6. Isabel and Ray Lampert
7. Julia and Jacob McGuire
Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s 14th Annual Gala included dinner, a live and silent auction and dancing. Proceeds of the event went toward artistic programming, free performances and educational concerts provided by Springfield Symphony Orchestra throughout the year.
The Pregnancy Care Center’s Annual Banquet raised funds for their services for the community. The evening included dinner, an update from Lisa McIntire on the clinic and a keynote address from Roland Warren of Care Net.
Date: May 3
The 34th annual Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation Medical Excellence Golf Classic was presented by SGC Foodservice and held at Silo Ridge Golf and Country Club in Bolivar. Teams of four competed in the tournament to raise money for the CMH Medical Excellence Scholarship program.
Date: June 6
Host Organization: Citizens Memorial Hospital
Location: Silo Ridge Golf and Country Club
Sponsors: 417 Magazine, Allen’s Mechanical, Craig Lehman Shelter Insurance, Employee Benefit Design, JE Dunn Construction, SGC Foodservice
3.
7.
Giving back to the community is a top priority for 417 Magazine. Each month, we support local nonprofits that help 417-land thrive. We proudly support events by charities and organizations that create Good Times for a Great Cause.
Magical is Coming to the
Mountain Sports Complex
Glide around our magic forest ice skating trail, feel the rush of snow tubing on real snow and enjoy wandering with your friends and family through a dazzling holiday light maze! Indulge in festive tunes at Bah Humbug's Sing-A-Long Piano Bar or enjoy a cup of cheer at the Tipsy Tree Lodge. Find the perfect gift for that special someone amongst our local artists and handmade crafts. And no holiday celebration would be complete without a visit from Santa Claus!
Nov. 22 – Dec. 31
1. Riu Palace, Costa Rica Elgin, Brenda and Richard Ratchet James took their copy of the “Take Me to the River” issue with them to Costa Rica.
2. St. Joseph, Missouri Mike & Nina Mann and Jim & Sue Hartman took their copy of the “Guide to Mexican Food” issue with them to the Kansas City Chiefs Training Camp.
them
3. Colorado Springs, Colorado Gary and Joan Whitaker took their copy of the “Top Doctors”
4. Multnomah Falls, Oregon
Cindy Heatherly and Shamberly Guthrie took their copy of the “Arts and Culture” issue with them to Oregon.
5. Santorini, Greece
Joshua and Ashton Archer took their copy of the “Take Me to the River” issue with them to Greece.
6. Brussels, Belgium
Kim and Brian Hammons took their copy of the “Guide to Mexican Food” issue with them to see the “Flower carpet in the square” in front of the Grand Palace in Brussels.
7. Roatan, Honduras
Justin and Wendy Nelson took their copy of the “Summer on the Farm” issue with them to Honduras.
1. Sycamore Creek Family Ranch
Hudson, Jet, Norah, Ryder, Bella, Lyric, Andrea, Austin, Robert Hartley, Casey Gibbons, Judy Hartley, Jordan Gibbons, Scotty Gibbons, Candice Gibbons, Allison Gibbons, Bria
Gibbons, Angelina Gibbons, Kelly Gibbons took their copy of the “Summer on the Farm” issue to their 15th annual cousins camp.
2. Shell Island, Florida Wayland, Miranda, Kendall and Jacob Lipscomb took their copy of the “Top Doctors” issue with them to Shell Island.
3. Wapakoneta, Ohio Emily and Micah Cox, Loyal Maberry-Cox, Jacob Cox and Ruth Ann Kaltenbach took the “Take Me to the River” issue to the Armstrong Air and Space Museum.
4. Zimbabwe, Africa Patty Mayse Smith and Julie Nickelson took their copy of the “Guide to Mexican Food” issue with them to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
5. Santorini, Greece
Kim Nye and Marci Dowdy took their copy of the “Take Me to the River” issue with them to Greece.
6. Dunedin, New Zealand
Fred Browning brought his copy of the “Arts and Culture” issue with him to New Zealand.
7. Barcelona, Spain
Chip & Teresa McGeehan took their copy of the “Where to Live Now” issue with them to the Segrada Familia in Barcelona.
8. Liberty, Maine
Danicka, Courtney, Matt, Brandt, Emerson, Beckley and Charla Locke, Shirley and Tom Beckley took their copy of the “Top Doctors” issue with them to Pratt Island on St. George Lake.
9. Cape Town, South Africa
John and Kris Twitty, Gary and Joan Whitaker, and Ken and Teresa Schwab took the “Mexican Food” issue to the Cape of Good Hope.
Claire Herzog is a voice instructor, violinist and vocalist who performs across Spring eld. Now, she is creating an album with her best friend, Faith Zimmer.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
“WHIMSY WILLOW REFERS TO THE BALANCE OF LIFE BEING FUN AND LIGHT-HEARTED—BUT ALSO THE HARDSHIPS AND STORMS.”
QYou’re getting ready to release an album, Whimsy Willow, with Faith Zimmer. Tell us about that.
“We’ve done a lot of music-making and live events together, but this will be our rst recorded collaboration just the two of us. The idea for this album came from a road trip we took together to Colorado with our husbands. We were in the car for 12 hours there and 12 hours back, and Faith and I were in the backseat chatting about our music and songs we had written recently, and we realized there was a lot of overlap in content and themes. We thought, ‘We should record an album together because we love making music together, and that would be super fun to have that as best friends and get to share that with others.’”
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who want to explore multiple genres?
“Always aim for excellence. This is a quote from my choir director: ‘Everything you do is an audition for the next thing you do.’ I found that to be true of my life. Whenever I go for excellence in whatever I’m currently doing, it tends to lead to more opportunities. Also, always stay curious and humble. I try to approach all my performances with gratitude. I am so thankful people want beauty and music in their lives.”
Visit 417mag.com to read our extended interview with Claire Herzog.
