Holy Cow!
Commerce Bank celebrates the recipients of the 2025 William T. Kemper Fellowships for Teaching Excellence. Our 2025 honorees have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to teaching, and join the ranks of the more than 30 years of celebrated Kemper Fellows. Each professor will be awarded $15,000 to be used at his or her own discretion. Commerce Bank is proud to salute the 2025 Kemper Fellows for their efforts to improve the quality of higher education at Mizzou.
Dennis K. Miller
Pamela Brown
Amy Simons Professor of Journalism Missouri School of Journalism
Julie Passanante Elman
Tamara S. Hancock
United Care Transport
Your Connection to Better Health and Independence
Access to health care should never be a luxury — it’s a necessity. Yet, for many, transportation remains a critical barrier to receiving timely medical care. Whether it’s navigating mobility challenges or securing a ride for regular appointments, United Care Transport is here to provide safe, reliable and compassionate transportation — because everyone deserves access to healthcare.
Breaking Down Barriers to Medical Care
Life doesn’t pause for transportation struggles. Seniors, individuals with disabilities and those managing chronic conditions often face limited public transit options or don’t have personal vehicles. United Care Transport removes the roadblocks with door-to-door assistance, professional drivers and a fleet of ambulatory and wheel chair-accessible transportation. We serve the unique needs of our community — helping you get the care you need without unnecessary hurdles.
Health Outcomes Start with Access
Routine medical visits aren’t optional — they’re essential. But missed appointments can lead to deteriorating health and costly emergency interventions. That’s where we step in. Our trusted Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) services help patients stick to their treatment plans — reducing hospitalizations and ensuring continuous, proactive care.
Empowering Independence and Quality of Life
The ability to get where you need to go shouldn’t depend on the kindness of a neighbor or the availability of a family member. Independence matters, and having a reliable transportation solution fosters confidence and self sufficienc. United Care Transport is more than a service — we empower passengers by giving them control. No more relying on others or feeling stuck at home — our professional drivers make seamless medical transportation possible, every day.
Affordability That Works for You
Health care costs can be overwhelming, but transportation shouldn’t add to the burden.
That’s why United Care Transport offers cost-effective, transparent pricing that ensures patients can afford to get to their appointments without financial strain. Missed medical visits don’t just affect health — they also drive up emergency care costs. Our services cut unnecessary expenses while safeguarding your well-being. Our drivers are CPR and First Aid certified, trained to povide exceptional care. When unexpected circumstances arise, United Care Transport is ready to step up and serve.
Let Us Take You There
Your health, independence and peace of mind shouldn’t be compromised by transportation issues. United Care Transport is ready to be your partner in seamless medical mobility.
Zola Heck Editor | zcrowder@mailzimmer.com Inside Columbia magazine
from the Editor
Some people tune in to the Golden Globes, the Oscars, the Grammys or the Emmys, but here in Columbia, we await the Best of Columbia results. It’s the time to shine a light on the local businesses, people, events and more that make our community the absolute best. We know it has felt like a long-awaited outcome, logging in every day to nominate and cast your votes for all of your favorites, but the wait is over! Flip to pages 46-55 to see the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners in all 76 categories, from Best Coffee and Best Pizza to Best Spa and Best Realtor. Whether you have lived in Columbia your whole life or are new to the area, you may finda new favorite from browsing this year’s winners.
This issue has all the best of the best in Columbia, including an inside look at the Michelin-starred French chef who is turning up the heat on typical school lunches at a local elementary school on pages 56-59. I remember the school lunch days, and all I can say is I am jealous these kiddos have the opportunity to indulge in such delicious dishes. It has been a few years since I was in France, but I can tell you one thing that stood out the most was the food. I am a sucker for the basics: French bread and cheese, croissants, quiches — and one delicious soup in particular on page 42! I hope to return someday, but for now, I will live vicariously through the students at Atelier Primary and Elementary Schools.
Whether you are looking to browse the new Best of Columbia winners, learn about the new French chef in town, get the buzz on bees or learn how local moms are making dinner easier for time-pressed parents, this issue is the perfect summer read. We hope you can sit by the pool, lake or just relax on the couch and enjoy this issue of Inside Columbia
our team MEET
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Carla Leible carla@mailzimmer.com
FOUNDERS
Fred & Melody Parry fred@mailzimmer.com
EDITOR Zola Heck zcrowder@mailzimmer.com
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Jane Steinbrecher jsteinbrecher@mailzimmer.com
Bailey Rizzo brizzo@mailzimmer.com
ART DIRECTOR Tim Flanner tflanner@mailzimme.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Lilyann Hames lhames@mailzimmer.com
PHOTO EDITOR
L.G. Patterson lg@mailzimmer.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Brook Harlan, Ava Kitzi, Wally Pfeffer, Nancy Toalson, Kimber Dean, Sabrina Michael, Andrea Luque Káram, Terese Dishaw and Joelle Quoirin.
what's online
Show Me the Honey
Get a bee’s eye view of the pollinators that make our ecosystem go ’round on page 37. Scared of stingers? Watch bonus footage from the safety of your screen on our Instagram, @insidecolumbiamagazine.
Best of the Best
Over 200,000 votes later, we’re ready to announce our Bronze, Silver and Gold winners. Flip ahead to page 44 to see who Columbia crowned as the greatest in town! For a comprehensive list of all of our winners, along with records of our previous victors, head to insidecolumbia.net.
Inside Columbia Staff
ADVERTISING COORDINATOR
Kalie Kramel kkramel@mailzimmer.com
MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES
Cathy Atkins catkins@mailzimmer.com
Josh Arnold jarnold@mailzimmer.com
Tyler Morrison tmorrison@mailzimmer.com
Lauren Imler limler@mailzimmer.com
OFFICE MANAGER
Becky James rjames@mailzimmer.com
DISTRIBUTION ASSOCIATE
Steve Leible
INSIDE COLUMBIA MAGAZINE
Zimmer Strategic Communications 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201 InsideColumbia.net Office: 573-875-1099
Inside Columbia is published by Zimmer Strategic Communications, 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201, 573-875-1099.
Copyright Zimmer Communications, 2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any editorial or graphic content without the express written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Postage paid at Columbia, Mo. Not responsible for omissions or information, which has been misrepresented to the magazine.
Details
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Subscription rate is $15 for 1 year. Call 573-875-1099 to place an order or to inform us of a change of address, or subscribe at InsideColumbia.net.
For bulk subscription rates, contact Becky James at 573-875-1099.
ADVERTISING
Inside Columbia is the best way to reach Columbia’s upscale consumers. Information about advertising is available online at InsideColumbia.net or by calling 573-875-1099.
NEWS RELEASES & EVENT NOTICES
Contact editor at 573-875-1099, or email zcrowder@mailzimmer.com.
ON THE TOWN
Send your photos with the event description and subject names for captions to zcrowder@mailzimmer.com, or mail to 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201. Not all photos received will be published.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Send letters to 3215 Lemone Industrial Blvd., suite 200, Columbia, MO 65201 or email zcrowder@mailzimmer.com. Inside Columbia reserves the right to publish any letter to the editor.
CUSTOM PUBLISHING
Let us publish a specialty magazine exclusively for your company or organization. Call Zola Heck at 573-875-1099 or email zcrowder@mailzimmer.com
REPRINTS
Want to reproduce an article you’ve seen in Inside Columbia? We can provide reprints and customize them on glossy stock for your promotional needs. Minimum quantity is 500 copies. Call Zola Heck at 573-875-1099 or email zcrowder@mailzimmer.com .
Inside Columbia Advisory Board
Get to know our Inside Columbia Advisory Board members!
We are thrilled to have such a talented group of individuals from all different industries in the community joining us to help shape the future of our publication. Their expertise across several professions and unique perspectives in the Columbia community will be invaluable as we continue to provide the best content for you, our readers.
Andrea Lyn Seppo Andrea Lyn Events
Ashleigh Stundebeck Select Realty Group
Sue Schwinke State Farm Insurance
Jennifer Heidrich Bronze by Design
Jessica Caldera Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer
Jenny Dewar Pure Barre Columbia
Mackenzie Wells Mackenzie Wells Fitness
Jill Newton Volunteer
MJ Smith Department of Emergency Medicine, MU School of Medicine
Stephanie Witthar CenterPointe Hospital of Columbia
Amanda Alcamo Restoration Chiropractic
Erica Smithers RE/MAX Boone Realty
Cooking Mamas
LOCAL COOKBOOK AUTHORS CREATE EASY RECIPES FOR TIME-PRESSED PARENTS.
BY ZOLA HECK • PHOTO CONTRIBUTED BY ART & SOUL PHOTOGRAPHY
What started as a strong friendship and a passion for business and blogging has become a thriving business, sharing delicious freezer-prep meals for busy parents.
Polly Conner and Rachel Tiemeyer, co-founders and CEOs of Thriving Home, have created a haven for accessible, healthy recipes that not only taste good, but are quick and easy to prep, freeze and enjoy later. “Our mission is to create approachable, familyfriendly recipes that check three important boxes: they use wholesome, easy-to-fin ingredients," Tiemeyer says. "They appeal to all ages and can often be prepped ahead and frozen to save time and stress."
Every recipe is tested several times before Conner and Tiemeyer share it with their audience. “I hate the idea of a busy parent wasting their time and money on a flop,” Tiemeyer says. “Families can trust that when they try one of ours, it’ll turn out right the first time.
The duo started their blog in 2012, sharing organization advice, parenting tips and recipes. After gaining some momentum, Tiemeyer and Conner were approached by a publisher with the idea to release a cookbook. This led to a book proposal, multiple offers from publishers, and their debut book, "From Freezer to Table," which is a guide to freezer cooking with 75 of their best recipes to help busy
parents. “The cookbook helped propel our online business forward because when you publish a cookbook, it gives you credibility in the online world,” Conner says. “Even before we launched our firs cookbook, we secured a deal for our second one.”
Their second book, “From Freezer to Cooker,” was released in 2020 with a focus on slow-cooker and Instant Pot recipes. Since both books were released, the pair has sold nearly 50,000 copies and were featured on the Hallmark Channel, in People magazine and on various other national media outlets. Conner and Tiemeyer have since shifted focus from books to creating an ad-free app that will feature more than 600 family-friendly
recipes, a customizable weekly plan and grocery list, and a monthly freezer-prep plan.
“Our hope is that an app will make it even easier for busy families to save time, eat healthier and feel less stressed about dinner,” Tiemeyer says. “We are hoping to have it up and running by the beginning of next year,” Conner adds. The goal is to continue to help families gather at the table, whether that’s through their newsletters, free online recipes, cookbook or the app.
“Family mealtime is irreplaceable, so knowing that we help families gather around the table more is a huge motivating factor,” Conner says.
More Than a Carnival
THE BOONE COUNTY FAIR RETURNS IN JULY.
BY BAILEY RIZZO • PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY JESSIE KEMPF
The scents of funnel cakes dusted in powdered sugar, nachos covered in melty cheese, smoked turkey legs and buttery popcorn drift through the heavy summer air. The sun blazes on the gravel paths between vendor stands and livestock barns. It’s hot, it’s loud, it’s a little dusty — and it’s exactly what an evening at the Boone County Fair should be like.
Established in 1835, the Boone County Fair is a mustattend for mid-Missouri residents. From the food and attractions to the livestock auctions and contests, there’s something for everyone at the fair.
Jessie Kempf, the fair manager, says this is the family-friendly event of the season. “A big theme that we like to get across is that the fair is not just a carnival,” she says. “It’s become more of that family-friendly, all-around entertainment … more than just an ag show or a carnival. It’s super exciting to see this all-encompassing event where families can spend an entire
evening or even a couple days.”
Many attractions and activities will be offered daily, including Flying Cortes & Trapeze Spectacular, Johnny Rockett’s Cycle Circus Live, Shaun Jay Magic, live music from local artists, laser tag, bounce houses, face painting, balloon art and carnival games.
Other attractions, such as the pageant, demo derby, baby contest, livestock show and auction, and ham breakfast are divided among each day of the fair. “The number of opportunities and shows we provide have grown immensely over the years,” Kempf says. “People especially love the demo derby. It is a huge hit and attracts the most people.”
Kempf has been involved in the Boone County Fair since 2022, stepping into the role as manager in September. Her favorite part of the fair is seeing how the youth demographic participates. “They work so hard on their livestock and arts project. It's a culmination of their hard work over the year, so it’s
really cool to see that,” she says. “Plus, I love seeing all the babies in the baby contest. I mean, who doesn't love a baby contest?”
Attendees can expect traditional fair food — funnel cakes, corn dogs and fried Oreos — but the Boone County Fair will also feature a food truck row. The row will include options like El Oso, Just Jeff ’s, Smoke Shack BBQ, Dippin’ Dots and more.
In addition to providing a fun-filed event, the fair board prioritizes security and safety for all guests. “We have a plan in place with the city and emergency management, in conjunction with the fie department and police department,” Kempf says. “We are putting in several measures to make sure it’s a safe and fun event for everybody.”
Tickets to the Boone County Fair are $15 Tuesday through Friday, and $20 on Saturday at entry. Kids aged six and under get in free, as well as veterans with military ID. For more information, visit theboonecountyfair.com.
WHAT Boone County Fair WHERE 5212 Oakland Gravel Road WHEN July 15-19, 5-10 p.m. COST $15-$20
WEBSITE theboonecountyfair.com
Darby Orthothics & Prostethics
AUG
August 3
Coolin’ Down with the Blues
Douglass Park
This free R&B concert at Douglass Park promises jazzy live music from local and regional talents. Activities and games for kids will be provided while the older crowd can enjoy the performances. This concert commemorates the unofficial en of summer, so be sure to end your summer on the right note!
4 p.m., free, como.gov/parks-andrecreation
August 8
Beyond the Barrel
Cooper’s Ridge
Calling all bourbon lovers! Sample a brand new selection of handcrafted
August 23
Kaleidospoke
MKT Trail
Get geared up to glow on the MKT trail for the 11th annual Kaleidospoke. This nighttime bike route will take you from Flat Branch Park to Twin Lakes on an eight-mile ride on an illuminated trail. This family-friendly, noncompetitive event will offer s’mores and a bonfie at Twin Lakes, along with Kona Ice for sale.
7 p.m., $18, como.gov/parks-and-recreation
whiskeys and bourbons at this tasting event. Chef Craig Hindelang of Catering by Design will serve expertly paired dinner courses with each sip. Springfield atist Dallas Jones will provide the live music and Cooper’s Ridge will provide the atmosphere for an unforgettable night.
6:30 p.m., $106, coopersridge. ticketleap.com
August 16
Seed of Success Gala:
The Grand Masquerade
The Atrium on Tenth Head downtown for a black-tie gala honoring the achievements of minority and women-owned businesses in Columbia. With live music, an auction and a masquerade theme, this can’t-miss celebration will raise money for the Sharp End
Volunteer & Fundraising Opportunities
July 12
Litter Team
Bear Creek Trail
Entrepreneurial Development Grant to help local entrepreneurs.
6 p.m., $100-$190, jawedf.org
August 28
Mizzou Tigers vs. Central Arkansas Bears
Faurot Field
The 2025 Mizzou football season is kicking off with a home game against Central Arkansas. The Tigers are coming off the tail of wo shakeup seasons and with previous stars Luther Burden III and Brady Cook out of the program, the team is hoping to evolve.
6:30 p.m., mutigers.com
August 30
Beer & Bagel O -Road Run
Albert Oakland Park
This four-mile run in Albert Oakland Park is all about natural terrain and untamed trails. After the race, enjoy bagels and cold beer in a tailgate-esque setting with your fellow runners. All post-race treats are included in registration, so leave your wallet at home!
8 a.m., $40, beerandbagel.com
Keep Bear Creek Trail, one of our best parks, beautiful as ever by joining the litter team. Each month, the litter team takes on a different area of Columbia and dedicates the morning to cleaning it up. Gloves, aprons, bags and safety supplies are provided. Grab a few friends, get outside and give back to Bear Creek Trail. 9-11 a.m., como.gov/volunteer
Ongoing Youth in Action
Filling your childrens’ days during the summer without the routine of school can be difficult. Luckily, Volunteer Columbia’s Youth in Action Program gives kids aged 12-15 opportunities to give back to the community, learn valuable skills and make friends. Events for YIA include dinners at Ronald McDonald House, Movies in the Park, Show Me Games and more! como.gov/volunteer/youth-volunteers
Unchained Melodies Dog Rescue
Animal lovers won’t want to miss the opportunity to give back with local organization Unchained Melodies. Opportunities include fostering, nursery duties, events, outreach and their Couch Crasher program, which is essentially letting a pup stay in your home for a shorter period. Hopeful volunteers must submit an application online with two references. unchainedmelodies.org/volunteer
Knowingyou'repreparedforlife'sadventuresletsyoufocusonwhatmatters
Here are the products and services I offer:
Annuities
LifeInsurance
DisabilityIncomeInsurance
Long-TermCareInsurance
MedicareSupplementInsurance
CriticalIllnessInsurance
EmployeeBenefitPlans
IRAs
573-449-0359
walter.pfeffer@mutualofomaha.com
InsuranceproductsandservicesareofferedbyMutualofOmahaInsuranceCompanyoroneofitsaffiliates.Homeoffice:3300MutualofOmahaPlaza,Omaha,NE68175. MutualofOmahaInsuranceCompanyislicensednationwide.UnitedofOmahaLifeInsuranceCompanyislicensednationwide,exceptNewYork.UnitedWorldLifeInsurance CompanyislicensednationwideexceptConnecticut,NewYorkandtheVirginIslands.CompanionLifeInsuranceCompany,Hauppauge,NY11788-2934,islicensedinNewYork. OmahaInsuranceCompanyislicensedinallstatesexcept:AL,CA,CO,ID,IL,LA,NC,NH,NV,NY,PR,RI,VI,VTandWI.Productsnotavailableinallstates.Eachunderwriting companyissolelyresponsibleforitsowncontractualandfinancialobligations.IndividualmedicalcoverageavailablethroughMutualofOmahaMarketingCorporation,andis underwrittenbyvariousinsurers.RegisteredRepresentativesoffersecuritiesthroughMutualofOmahaInvestorServices,Inc.aRegisteredBroker/Dealer.MemberFINRA/SIPC. InvestmentadvisorrepresentativesofferadvisoryservicesthroughMutualofOmahaInvestorServices,Inc.,aSECRegisteredInvestmentAdvisoryFirm. MutualofOmahaAdvisorsisadivisionofMutualofOmahaInsuranceCompany. 456006
More Than a Buzz
BY SABRINA MICHAEL | PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON
Since I can remember, I’ve been fascinated by organisms that live and work together. While other kids were on the playground, I would lie belly-down in the dirt, captivated by trails of ants foraging for sugary treasures. It felt like watching a living puzzle, each ant a moving piece in something much bigger than itself. I was trying to figue out how they all knew what to do — and why it worked so well.
So, when I say honeybees are a dream organism for someone like me, I mean it.
WHY BEES?
These remarkable insects don’t just live together; they function as a superorganism, where everyone plays a specialized role. They construct a wax comb with mathematical precision, regulate the hive’s internal temperature and divide labor across tens of thousands of individuals — all without a central command.
At the heart of the hive is the queen. Her sole job is to lay eggs (up to 2,000 a day at her peak). Around her, nurse bees tend to larvae, foragers
fly miles to collect nectar and pollen, guards protect the hive entrance and undertaker bees remove the dead. Each bee knows what to do and when to do it.
It’s a society that runs on vibration, scent and instinct. Bees communicate and make group decisions, often more democratically than most human institutions. Watching bees work together is like watching a miracle unfold — one buzz, one wingbeat, one perfectly timed movement at a time.
I didn’t originally set out to become a beekeeper. That
changed during a summer course I was teaching for the Missouri Scholars Academy. My class focused on the sounds and vibrations that living organisms make but we often overlook. While walking to a pond on the University of Missouri's campus, we noticed a hive in a tree. My students and I wondered: what kinds of vibrations might be humming inside?
We suited up, placed recording devices in the hive, and waited. The soundscape was alive — layers of buzzing, tapping and movement that revealed a hidden world. My
students were fascinated … so was I.
Shortly after, I was invited to teach a seminar course through the Honors College at Mizzou: “What’s the Buzz About Bees?” From the first hive vist, I was hooked. The course covers everything from bee biology and communication to agriculture and sustainability. I get to teach students not just about how bees live, but why they matter so profoundly.
WHY DO BEES MATTER?
Bees are essential to life as we know it. Honeybees and native pollinators play an irreplaceable role in ecosystems and agriculture. About one-third of the food we eat relies on
pollination. But bees aren’t just agricultural workers; they’re ecological linchpins. Their pollination services help wild plants reproduce, which supports the food webs that countless insects, birds and mammals rely on.
It’s not only honeybees doing this work. North America is home to over 4,000 species of native bees. These species often have close relationships with local ecosystems and are essential to preserving biodiversity.
TROUBLE IN THE HIVE
In recent decades, both managed honeybee colonies and native bee species have experienced concerning declines. Loss of habitat and floral diversity from development and lawn-
dominated landscapes poses a threat. Systemic insecticides and herbicides, parasites and seasonal shifts can throw off the precise timing bees rely on to find ood when they need it most and threatens their survival. These pressures accumulate to an environment where bees are constantly working uphill just to stay alive.
This is why education matters. When people understand the biology of bees, the challenges they face and how human actions affect their world, they’re empowered to help.
BEE THE CHANGE
You don’t have to become a beekeeper to support pollinators — you just have to care. Small, intentional actions can create a surprisingly big impact. Start by planting native wildflowers that bloom across the seasons. Even a few pots on an apartment balcony can become a bee buffet. Skip the pesticides and let your yard be a little wild!
Creating a bee-friendly space doesn’t require acres of land — it just requires a willingness to share your space with them. Bees may be small, but their role in our world is monumental. Protecting them means protecting food security, biodiversity and the quiet, buzzing harmony of ecosystems that support us all.
FROM HIVE TO TABLE
Beekeeping is where science meets sweetness. It’s biology,
agriculture and ecology all wrapped into one—and the reward is something golden, fragrant and deeply local.
For me, sharing this with students is one of the greatest joys. Watching them during a hive visit or during honey extraction, where they “ooh and ahh” as liquid gold drips off the hot knife, reminds me how impactful these creatures can be. It’s not just about bees—it’s about teaching appreciation for the natural world, the beauty of interdependence and the responsibility to care for it.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Whether you're lying on the ground watching ants, suiting up to inspect a hive or simply planting flowers in a window box, there’s something deeply humbling about observing organisms that thrive through cooperation. Bees show us what it means to work together, to communicate without words, to build something bigger than any one individual could manage alone.
In a world that often feels rushed and disconnected, bees bring us back to the basics: community, resilience and purpose. They remind me to slow down and tune in. I’ve learned more from standing beside a busy beehive than from most textbooks. And I hope more people get the chance to listen — not just to the buzz, but to what it’s telling us.
PHOTO BY L.G. PATTERSON
Add to Queue
5 CAN’T-MISS FLICKS TO WATCH AT HOME.
Welcome to our Ultimate Lists! In each issue, you will find a cuated selection of things to listen to or watch, put together by influeners in the community, on-air talent from Zimmer Communications or a member of the Inside Columbia staff. For this issue, Andrea Luque Káram, the new executive director of Ragtag Film Society and True/False, shares her at-home watchlist. Scan the QR code on this page to get to the watchlist. Enjoy!
BY ANDREA LUQUE KÁRAM
For me, watching TV at home is an end-of-day treat. I love watching films and shws that keep me curious, but watching from the couch is not the same immersive experience that the cinema offers, so I always save time for the big screen!
“Roma” - Netlfli
As a Mexican, I couldn’t skip this one! “Roma” is paced beautifully and takes the viewer on a journey through 1970s Mexico City. The stereotypical ways in which foreign countries are portrayed are a challenge to break, but this film did an xcellent job of depicting socioeconomic and racial inequities in Mexican society in a meaningful way.
“The Next Three Days” - Amazon Prime
This film hits very mark of a good thriller. The acting was convincing and it was paced very well; you had enough information to make up your mind but were pushed to reconsider with every twist. Beyond the tension built throughout the film, I think I ot the ending I needed.
“Hidden Figures” - Amazon Prime
This is a bit of a kitchen sink story — in a good way! History, superb acting and a captivating true story are intertwined with a deep lesson about racial and gender inequity. This film eminded me that we are stepping on the shoulders of giants and as a woman of color, I felt inspired and grateful upon watching it.
“The Deepest Breath” - Netlfli
This documentary shows the life of Russian deep diver Natalia Molchanova. Viewers are engaged in a brilliant, personal way, regardless of their connection to the sport. Documentaries are doors into realities that otherwise remain obscured, stereotyped or ignored. Watching “The Deepest Breath” was a visceral experience, reminding me of the fragility and strength of human nature.
“Switched at Birth” - Hulu
This series portrays two teenagers who were switched at birth and grew up under different realities. It presents issues of identity related to nationality and social structures while maintaining a “feel-good” vibe. Additionally, a few characters are deaf, so several episodes are fully in American Sign Language, giving the viewer a different way of experiencing the world.
From Le Cordon Bleu to Holistic Nutrition
HOW CLASSIC FRENCH TECHNIQUES GUIDED MY HEALTH-FOCUSED CUISINE.
BY KIMBER DEAN • PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON
My fondest memories of culinary school in San Francisco are the rich diversity of cultural cuisine
and the rare, fresh ingredients I found at the local shops and farmers' markets. Going to culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu in San Francisco was a blessing because I was able
to get fresh ingredients from the large farmers markets daily and exotic ingredients from places like Little Italy or Chinatown. Little did I know how much farmers markets
and the healing properties of its products would hold for my future as a holistic chef.
When I chose to go to Le Cordon Bleu, I knew I wanted a rounded understanding of
cooking, baking, wine and the restaurant industry. I enrolled wanting a comprehensive culinary education, covering everything from knife skills and sauce making to wine and restaurant operations. I found myself deeply inspired by the classic French techniques and global knowledge I gained there. Mindful consumption, where ingredients matter, and choosing quality products is what creates overall well-being.
When I graduated in 2008, I wanted to eat to heal my body since I was recovering from drug addiction. I began studying health and nutrition for my own healing and creating meals that healed my body while I gained experience in all culinary forms. I worked for a year at Ledson Winery as a wine consultant to further my wine knowledge. I worked at 9 Islands Portuguese Bakery and Great Harvest Bread Company, learning about many baking items and techniques. I went back to the restaurant industry and I worked as the kitchen manager for the University of Missouri and as the sous chef for a fraternity before releasing my first cokbook, “Happy Food,” and opening Happy Food Catering. I took all the experience I gained while working in the food and restaurant industry, and started sharing the recipes I created for myself with others.
One of the first ecipes I learned at school was French
INGREDIENTS
6 tablespoons olive oil
3 pounds thinly sliced onions
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup port wine or dry sherry
2 cartons (or 64 ounces) beef broth
DIRECTIONS
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
24 slices baguette bread (1/2 inch thick)
2 large garlic cloves, peeled and halved
3/4 cup shredded Hemme aged cheddar
1. In a Dutch oven, heat three tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add onions, then cook and stir until softened for 10-13 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir occasionally until golden brown for 30 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for two minutes longer.
2. Stir in wine. Boil until liquid is reduced by half for about fie minutes. Add broth, pepper and salt, and return to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer covered, stirring occasionally, for one hour.
3. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush both sides with remaining three tablespoons of oil. Bake until toasted, three to fie minutes on each side. Rub toasts with halved garlic.
4. To serve, ladle soup into twelve eight-ounce broiler-safe bowls on baking sheets. Place two toasts in each and top with cheese. Broil four inches from heat until the cheese is melted, which should take one to two minutes.
onion soup. I want to show you how I make the classic favorite healthy and delicious with nutrient-rich ingredients.
This is a holistic version of the soup, made using Happy Food beef bone broth, local produce, dairy-free options like avocado oil and cashew ricotta, and gluten-free, vegan baguettes I make in-house. You can watch how I make them on
my YouTube channel. Alongside these ingredients, we’ll use all the French cooking techniques to make this meal with all of my healthy tweaks.
When I was asked to write for the issue featuring the new French chef, Adam Horton, I had no idea what I wanted to write about — that is rare for me, with food! After taking the time to write this, it has
brought back many joyful memories throughout my career. Reflecting on my time at culinary school has reminded me how deeply that training shaped my purpose today. From traditional French cooking to health-forward adaptations, I get to do what I love — helping others nourish their bodies and heal through food.
Meet Landon, the insurance expert who’s investing in your future.
Kickin’ Kitchens
BY
Now that summer is here to stay, patios and backyards have become a hub for hosting. Once the fans are circulating and the drinks are on ice, nothing beats a summer evening on the patio with loved ones.
If hosting is up your alley this summer, you might be thinking about how to level up your barbecues, pool parties or dinners with friends and family. You can turn your patio into the ultimate hangout with an outdoor kitchen, which have been skyrocketing in popularity among design trends. Whether it be adding a new grill, a stove or some sleek counters, an outdoor kitchen turns up the heat on summer hosting.
If you want to add an outdoor kitchen setup or boost the one you have, Ethan O’Keefe, the marketing manager for Grilla Grills and
MEAT!, says the first step i finding something that ts your style. “You want to make sure you can cover all the aspects of bringing your indoor cooking experiences to the outdoors,” he says.
This includes having enough counter space for preparation and serving food, storage for cooking utensils and trash, and making sure you have a grill that fits the kind of cooking you plan to do. “A lot of people like to entertain, so the drink cooler is a great addition,”
O’Keefe says. If you stick to those steps when thinking about your outdoor kitchen, you're guaranteed to get the setup of your dreams.
FITTING YOUR BUDGET
O’Keefe says outdoor kitchens are completely customizable, so you can get as little or as much as you desire. “You want to start small, with the pieces that will bring you the most value,” he says. “Since they
are completely modular, it’s really common for us to see customers start with a grill and a pair of cabinets. That gives you your counter space, storage and a grill.” Then, you can add more on you have a more expansive budget. “Since it’s super easy to add on, people end up loving it and they want to expand their kitchen, so they start buying more pieces and adding on to the kitchen.” It’s all about adding what you can, when you can, to bring the most joy to your outdoor living space.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
When updating your outdoor space, O’Keefe says the most important thing to remember is that you’re cultivating a space for memories. “That’s what it’s all about — creating that emotional connection and creating memories,” he says. “That’s what we do with the kitchens and the brand. It’s all about that emotional
tie to having cookouts and hanging out with family and we want to provide that opportunity for people.”
The outdoor kitchen of your dreams will help facilitate those memories, whether you add counter space, storage, a trash cabinet, smokers, a sink, a grill, a woodfie pizza oven or a cooler. The option to add as little or as much as you want is completely up to you.
FINAL STEPS
If you are looking to amp up the summer by updating your outdoor cooking space, take your time, do your own research, establish your budget and pick what will work best for you. Maybe even check out the grills and kitchens at the new Grilla Grills factory outlet store on Route Z. And once your outdoor kitchen is finished Gather the family, crack a drink open and get to cooking!
ZOLA HECK | PHOTO BY L.G. PATTERSON
BRING THE HEAT TO YOUR BACKYARD THIS SUMMER.
Best of Columbia
Photos by L.G. Patterson
The Best of Columbia 2025 results are in! You nominated and voted for your favorite people, places and things in Columbia — now it’s time to reveal the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners!
Thank you to the Columbia community for helping us reach more than 200,000 votes! All of the winners cannot thank you enough for your part in making this year’s competition the best yet. This contest would not be possible without our readers, who truly are the Best of Columbia.
Two of the Best in Columbia are popping bottles — or cans — at Logboat Brewing Co., Gold winner for Best Local Watering Hole. Cheers to Logboat’s own Mark Alexiou, the Best Bartender in town, alongside Rusty Drewing, owner of Rusty Drewing Automotive, the Best Place to Buy a Car.
Now, it’s time to meet the winners of BEST OF COLUMBIA 2025!
FOOD & DRINK
BEST BARBECUE
GOLD: Como Smoke & Fire
SILVER: D. Rowe’s Restaurant & Bar
BRONZE: Big Daddy's BBQ
BEST LOCAL WATERING HOLE
GOLD: Logboat Brewing Co.
SILVER: Flat Branch Pub & Brewing
BRONZE: Pierpont General Store
BEST PIZZA
GOLD: Shakespeare’s Pizza
SILVER: G&D Pizzaria
BRONZE: Pizza Tree
BEST BURGER
GOLD: Just Jeff ’s
SILVER: Booches Billiard Hall
BRONZE: Billiards on Broadway
BEST BREAKFAST
GOLD: Big Mama’s Cafe
SILVER: Ernie’s Cafe and Steakhouse
BRONZE: Cafe Berlin
BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT
GOLD: Las Margaritas
SILVER: Delia’s Mexican Grill
BRONZE: José Jalapeños
BEST LOCAL ICE CREAM/FROZEN CUSTARD
GOLD: Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream
SILVER: Andy’s Frozen Custard
BRONZE: Randy’s Frozen Custard
MOST BIZARRE MENU ITEM
FROG LEGS FROM MURRY’S
You might be thrown off when this unusual appetier hits your table at Murry’s. Fried to crispy perfection, dusted with parmesan and served alongside a tangy dipping sauce, the bullfrog legs are like a more tender, earthier-tasting chicken. Trust us on this one — order this app at least once before you croak.
BEST OUTDOOR DINING
GOLD: Flat Branch Pub & Brewing
SILVER: Las Margaritas
BRONZE: The Bistro at Les Bourgeois Vineyards
BEST COFFEE
GOLD: The Grind Coffee House
SILVER: Lakota Coffee Co.
BRONZE: Love Coffee
BEST FOOD TRUCK
GOLD: Ozark Mountain Biscuit Co.
SILVER: Mr. Murphy’s Stuffed Potatoes
BRONZE: Lilly’s Cantina
BEST DESSERT
GOLD: Peggy Jean’s Pies
SILVER: Batter Up Cupcakes
BRONZE: Tsokolate
BEST COCKTAIL MENU
GOLD: Flyover
SILVER: Barred Owl Butcher & Table
BRONZE: Dive Bar
BEST VEGAN/VEGETARIAN OPTIONS
GOLD: Beet Box
SILVER: Cafe Berlin
BRONZE: Nourish Café & Market
BEST STEAK
GOLD: CC’s City Broiler
SILVER: G&D Steakhouse
BRONZE: Murry’s
BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT
GOLD: Jina Yoo’s Asian Bistro
SILVER: House of Chow
BRONZE: Bangkok Gardens
BEST MARGARITA
GOLD: Las Margaritas
SILVER: Delia’s Mexican Grill
BRONZE: Irene’s
BEST NEW RESTAURANT
GOLD: Endwell Taverna
SILVER: The Kitchen Grill & Games
BRONZE: Los Comales Mexican Restaurant and Store
BEST DOWNTOWN HOTSPOT
GOLD: Tellers Gallery & Bar
SILVER: The Roof
BRONZE: Son of a Gun
PEOPLE
BEST CHEF
GOLD: Brian Brink - D. Rowe's Restaurant & Bar
SILVER: Kirk Morgan - Como Smoke & Fire
BRONZE: Jina Yoo - Jina Yoo's Asian Bistro
Are your eyes bigger than your stomach? This T-bone steak, seared to perfection at CC’s City Broiler, takes the Gold for Best Steak. Serving this meal is the Best Wait Staff in olumbia, CC’s team of dedicated experts who raise the steaks on fine dining.
Scotty Cox, the Gold winner for Best Radio Personality, is taking a break from the mic to get his last few hairs trimmed by the Best Hair Stylist, Jenna Sutton at The Clip Joint. He really does have the hair for radio.
BEST RADIO PERSONALITY
GOLD: Scotty - Clear 99
SILVER: Shags - 96.7 KCMQ
BRONZE: Cosmo - Y107
BEST LOCAL TV PERSONALITY
GOLD: Matt Beckwith - KOMU 8
SILVER: Meghan Drakas - ABC 17 News
BRONZE: Sharon Ray - KRCG 13
BEST BARTENDER
GOLD: Mark Alexiou - Logboat Brewing Co.
SILVER: Max Bennett - D&D Pub & Grub
BRONZE: Liz Lippelman - Son of a Gun
BEST CEO
GOLD: Steve Hotsenpiller - Steve's Pest Control
SILVER: Mun Choi - University of Missouri System
BRONZE: Nancy Yaeger - Fleet Feet
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
GOLD: Holly J Greenup Photography
SILVER: Casey Buckman Photography
BRONZE: Schaefer Photography
BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR/ PERSONAL TRAINER
GOLD: Rebecca Maier - ARC Activity & Recreation Center/Crunch Fitness
SILVER: Jen Loganbill - Jen’s Get Fit Group
BRONZE: Jenny Dewar - Pure Barre Columbia
BEST REALTOR
GOLD: Michelle Schnake WittenbornCentury 21 Community
SILVER: Dustin March - EXP Realty, LLC
BRONZE: Orie Hemme - Copper Creek Realty
BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR
GOLD: Stephanie Goans - Edward Jones
SILVER: James Henderson - Rock Bridge Financial Advisors
BRONZE: Graham Buresh - Wilkerson Advisory Group
BEST ATTORNEY
GOLD: Tyson Mutrux - Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers
SILVER: Bogdan A. Susan – Holder Susan Slusher, LLC
BRONZE: Jeffey L. Hilbrenner - Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer
GROOVIEST GLASSWARE IRENE’S
Everyone knows the glassware can make or break the cocktail. At Irene’s, their bold, eccentric takes on Southern flvors extends all the way to their glasses. Whether it be a made-to-order margarita or a fresh mojito, you’ll sip out of a colorful, funky glass each time. After all, everything tastes better in a fun cup.
BEST TATTOO ARTIST
GOLD: Cassandra Stokes - Stone Crow Studio
SILVER: Trent Tucker - Living Canvas
BRONZE: Moe Ricee - Iron Moe's
BEST INSURANCE AGENT
GOLD: Phyllis Nichols - State Farm Insurance
SILVER: Stephanie Wilmsmeyer - State Farm Insurance
BRONZE: Mandy Shanks - Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance
BEST LOCAL PERFORMING ARTIST
GOLD: C. Rock City
SILVER: The House Band
BRONZE: Pat Kay
BEST FLORIST
GOLD: Kent's Floral Gallery
SILVER: My Secret Garden
BRONZE: Blooms and Wishes Flowers
SERVICES
BEST TOWING COMPANY
GOLD: Doug Perry Towing
SILVER: Tiger Towing
BRONZE: I-70 Towing & Recovery
BEST LAWNSCAPING
GOLD: Taylor's Commercial Grounds Maintenance
SILVER: Rost Landscaping
BRONZE: Kretch’s Custom Exteriors
Justin Riley, the owner of Dryer's Shoe Store, the Best Place to Buy Shoes, is helping the Gold winner for Best CEO and Best Pest Control, Steve Hotsenpiller, the owner of Steve’s Pest Control, pick out a new pair of kicks
BEST LAWN CARE
GOLD: Taylor's Commercial
Grounds Maintenance
SILVER: Columbia Lawn Guys
BRONZE: Kretch’s Custom Exteriors
BEST AUTO REPAIR
GOLD: Mutrux Automotive
SILVER: Como Auto Repair
BRONZE: Lee's Tire Company
BEST CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
GOLD: Heartland Homes Remodeling & Roofing
SILVER: Hemme Construction
BRONZE: New Beginnings Construction & Remodeling
BEST PEST CONTROL
GOLD: Steve's Pest Control
SILVER: Wingate Pest and Lawn
BRONZE: Atkins, Inc.
BEST PET DAYCARE/BOARDING
GOLD: Creekside Pet Center
SILVER: Dog Daze Playcare
BRONZE: Peace Love Paws Pet Sitters, LLC
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE
GOLD: Fleet Feet
SILVER: Mutrux Automotive
BRONZE: ServiceMaster of Columbia
BEST HOME REMODELING
GOLD: Heartland Homes Remodeling & Roofing
SILVER: New Beginnings Construction & Remodeling
BRONZE: TrueSon Exteriors & Interiors
BEST WAIT STAFF
GOLD: CC's City Broiler
SILVER: G&D Steakhouse
BRONZE: D. Rowe's Restaurant & Bar
BEST PET SUPPLIES/GROOMER
GOLD: Lizzi & Rocco's Natural Pet Market
SILVER: Treats Unleashed
BRONZE: All Dogs-N-Cats Pet Salon
BEST HOME REPAIR
GOLD: ServiceMaster of Columbia
SILVER: New Beginnings Construction & Remodeling
BRONZE: Ridgeway Construction LLC
BEST CAR WASH
GOLD: Club Car Wash
SILVER: Gaines Car Detailing
BRONZE: COMO Detail Pros
BEST CATERER
GOLD: Sara Fougere Catering
SILVER: Bush's Catering
BRONZE: Just Love Coffee Cafe
BEST VETERINARY PRACTICE
GOLD: Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital
SILVER: Horton Animal Hospital
BRONZE: Noah's Ark Animal Hospital & Bird Clinic
BEST CLEANING SERVICE
GOLD: An Eye For Detail Cleaning Service
SILVER: RW Cleaning Services, LLC
BRONZE: The Cleanest, LLC
BEST PLUMBING COMPANY
GOLD: Brian Wear Plumbing
SILVER: Chapman Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing
BRONZE: Adam’s Plumbing
BEST UNOFFICIAL LANDMARK BOATHENGE
Down by the Missouri River, at the mouth of Little Bonne Femme, you might stumble upon six fibeglass boats upright in the grass. Locals discovered the boats standing tall after the 100-year floods in 1993 and 1995. If you visit in-person, you’ll notice an intriguing shadow being cast as the sun rises.
BEST HVAC COMPANY
GOLD: Chapman Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing
SILVER: Star Heating & Air Conditioning Co.
BRONZE: Air & Water Solutions
BEST GO-TO FOR DISASTER RESPONSE
GOLD: ServiceMaster of Columbia
SILVER: Ridgeway Construction, LLC
BRONZE: Heartland Homes Remodeling & Roofin
BEST REALTY COMPANY
GOLD: Iron Gate Real Estate
SILVER: House of Brokers Realty, Inc.
BRONZE: Weichert Realtors - First Tier
BEST HOTEL/BED AND BREAKFAST
GOLD: The Broadway Hotel
SILVER: School House Bed & Breakfast
BRONZE: The Tiger Hotel
MOST HIDDEN GEM CATACOMBS
It doesn’t get more hidden than being underground. Just beneath Artlandish Gallery is an age-old system of tunnels, transformed into gallery spaces where local artists present and sell their creations. With its rich history and expressive art, the Catacombs are a certified olumbia gem — right under our noses.
WELLNESS
BEST CHIROPRACTIC OFFICE
GOLD: Restoration Chiropractic
SILVER: Compass Chiropractic & Wellness
BRONZE: Advanced Physical Health
BEST HAIR
STYLIST
GOLD: Jenna Sutton - The Clip Joint
SILVER: Angela Mechlin - Hair Therapy Salon & Day Spa
BRONZE: Paige Robb - Riversong Spa and Salon
BEST MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCE
GOLD: Burrell Behavioral Health
SILVER: Counseling Associates
BRONZE: Anxiety & Depression Clinic of Columbia
BEST SPECIALTY HEALTH CARE
GOLD: Columbia Orthopaedic Group
SILVER: Liberty Family Medicine
BRONZE: Missouri Heart Center
BEST
PLACE TO GET EYE CARE
GOLD: Missouri Eye Consultants
SILVER: Becvar Optometry
BRONZE: Andrew Stone Optometry
BEST SPA
GOLD: Riversong Spa & Salon
SILVER: Hair Therapy Salon & Day Spa
BRONZE: Regeneration Salon & Spa
BEST DISPENSARY/CBD
GOLD: 3Fifteen Primo Cannabis
SILVER: Shangri-La Marijuana Dispensaries
BRONZE: Green Releaf Dispensary
BEST DENTAL PRACTICE
GOLD: Willett Dental Associates
SILVER: COMO Dental
BRONZE: Bear Creek Family Dental
BEST NUTRITION/SUPPLEMENT STORE
GOLD: Natural Grocers
SILVER: Supplement Superstores
BRONZE: Tiger Nutrition III
BEST
SALON
GOLD: The Clip Joint
SILVER: Hair Therapy Salon & Day Spa
BRONZE: Riversong Spa & Salon
LOCAL
BEST LOCAL
FAVORITES
RADIO SHOW
GOLD: Liz & Scotty in the Morning - Clear 99
SILVER: The Cosmo and Kat Show - Y107
BRONZE: The Morning Shag with Shags & Trevor96.7 KCMQ
BEST PLACE TO HEAR LIVE MUSIC
GOLD: Cooper’s Landing
SILVER: Pierpont General Store
BRONZE: The Blue Note
BEST LOCAL CLOTHING STORE
GOLD: Fringe Western Wear
SILVER: Fleet Feet
BRONZE: Alpine Shop
They may be Blended and Blessed, but their car is never a mess — Gold winners for Best Podcast Angie Phillips and Aric Bremer take a joyride through the Goldwinning Club Car Wash.
BEST PLACE TO BUY SHOES
GOLD: Dryer's Shoe Store
SILVER: Fleet Feet
BRONZE: American Shoe
BEST PLACE TO BUY
JEWELRY
GOLD: Buchroeders Jewelers
SILVER: Betz Jewelers
BRONZE: Poppy Made by Hand
BEST LOCAL PODCAST
GOLD: Blended, Blessed & Always A Mess
SILVER: The Cosmo + Kat Show "Fun Size" Podcast
BRONZE: With You in the Weeds
BEST PLACE TO BUY HOME GOODS & GIFTS
GOLD: Plume
SILVER: The Tin Roof Monogram & Gift
BRONZE: Hahn Custom Laser Engraving, LLC
BEST PLACE TO WORK
GOLD: University of Missouri
SILVER: Hair Therapy Salon & Day Spa
BRONZE: EquipmentShare
BEST
FAMILY-FRIENDLY
DESTINATION
GOLD: Midway Golf & Games
SILVER: The Kitchen Grill & Games
BRONZE: Level Up Entertainment
BEST PLACE TO BUY
A CAR
GOLD: Rusty Drewing Automotive
SILVER: Joe Machens Ford
BRONZE: Bob McCosh Chevrolet
BEST FESTIVAL OR ANNUAL EVENT
GOLD: Art in the Park
SILVER: True/False Film Fest
BRONZE: Fire in the Sky
BEST NONPROFIT
GOLD: Love Columbia
SILVER: Unchained Melodies Dog Rescue
BRONZE: Coyote Hill Foster Care Ministries
BEST WEDDING VENUE
GOLD: Cooper's Ridge Event Venue
SILVER: Columbia Country Club
BRONZE: The Atrium on Tenth
Michelin-Starred Chef Brings French Cooking to Elementary Students.
FINE DINES LUNCH LINES L trading for
ong gone are the days of cardboard pizza and sloppy green mush served on plastic trays for lunch … at least, that’s the case for Atelier Primary and Elementary Schools in Columbia.
In 2021, the private school brought on Chef Adam Horton, a world-renowned Michelin-starred chef who was looking for a change of pace. Now, students expect sauce with every meal — a distinctly French, fin-dining occurrence — and eat their meals on glass plates.
Horton attended Le Cordon Bleu’s California School of Culinary Arts in 2000. After graduating, he found work at renowned Los Angeles restaurant Saddle Peak Lodge, which became his onagain-off-again home for the next 20-odd years. Horton says that early on he struggled in the kitchen, but a year of learning sent him skyrocketing through the ranks of his peers. When Saddle Peak Lodge’s executive chef, Warren Schwartz (who Horton says is still his biggest mentor to this day) left, Horton followed, going on a world industry tour to hone his skills.
Over the course of 15 years, Horton staged in France, worked at Gordon Ramsay’s three-Michelin-star restaurant in London and was a part of the massive machine of Wolfgang Puck’s Spago in Las Vegas. Horton also went on to work in Thailand, where he got his fist practice at cooking for children at a monastery orphanage with over 1,000 residents.
“It was crazy,” Horton says of his many culinary encounters over the years. He remembers the week an executive chef brought in a Boeing executive to teach him the ins-and-outs of managing a big team. “It's just experiences you're not supposed to have happen.”
In the middle of his travels and growth as a chef, Horton came back to Saddle Peak Lodge as a sous chef. When the position of chef de cuisine opened up, he took the initiative to talk the owners into giving him a chance. When he took the reins, Horton led the restaurant to a Michelin Star. He stayed in this role for seven years before pivoting to manage the front-of-house operations.
Story and Photos by Ava Kitzi
COVID-19 hit the restaurant industry hard, as did the autoimmune disease that Horton was diagnosed with around the same time. He knew the restaurant lifestyle — which had him working nearly 100 hours a week and missing 18 family Thanksgivings — was no longer the right path for him.
“I knew I didn’t want to do restaurants again,” he says. “It’s too much on the body and the soul.”
This need for a change of pace coincided with Horton’s wife’s search for a medical school program. Columbia felt like a great fi for the pair.
After nearly 20 years of working almost exclusively in Michelinstarred restaurants, the very peak of dining service, Horton's peers warned him that he wouldn’t fit in small-town Missouri. here were no big opportunities or outlets for his creativity and skill level.
Then, he found Atelier.
The school combines the Montessori Method with other teaching philosophies for students aged two through seventh grade … and they happened to be hiring a chef. Horton says he emailed a twopage letter to the school’s founder, Kara Hook, asking her to give him a shot, despite his over-qualifications
“Five years ago, I wouldn’t have been able to imagine doing this,” he says. “Now I can't imagine not doing this.”
In the three years since Horton started working at Atelier, he has developed a trust with his students that flows both was. Horton trusts their opinions, feedback and taste buds; the students trust him to serve tasty food.
Horton works hard to ensure the food he serves to 200 students and faculty isn’t too “chef-y,” while still maintaining a level of diversity. Students can expect a wide array of worldwide flavos they aren’t likely to get at home. There are a few staples, like teriyaki chicken and bulgogi bowls, that parents say their children beg for at home, though nothing from the grocery store can replicate what they get at school. Continued on page 59.
TORCH passing the
Steve Tetzlaff was initially hesitant about cooking for children. Moving back to Columbia and joining the Atelier staff as Adam Horton’s apprentice was a brandnew venture for the highly experienced chef. Tetzlaff spends his mornings prepping food and cooking with Horton, and is responsible for transporting the meals to the various Atelier schools, doing prep work and facilitating balanced snacks for the students.
Horton says that having someone to inherit his skills and knowledge is an important part of his work process. “I’ve earned this skill set through blood, sweat and tears,” Horton says. “For it to just die with me seems crazy.”
Tetzlaff says that this job and the mentorship from Horton has given him the confidene and technique to know his career is promising. He remembers when he first made meatloaf with Horton, saying it was the first time he eally got to get his hands dirty and be involved in every step of the process. Tetzlaff says it was at this moment he realized, “I could do this on my own one day.”
CHEF -talk
ichelin Star
AllDay
The most prestigious award in the culinary world. As opposed to the ‘five-star ratings’ you may find adoning gourmet restaurants, Michelin Stars are awarded in increments of one, two or three. Any restaurant can be awarded stars — and can have them removed if the Michelin Guide decides their food has fallen below the mark.
The total number of orders for a dish the kitchen must fulfillat a certain time.
Corner/Behind
Directory interjections to announce when stepping around a corner of the restaurant or walking behind another chef to avoid spills and accidents in a bustling, active kitchen.
Staging
86
An unpaid fellowship where a chef works in another, often more experienced, chef ’s kitc hen. Here, they gain experience, learn techniques and build relationships within the industry. (It ’s pronounced stahj-ing.)
Shorthand signaling that the kitchen is out of a specifi ingredient or dish.
FrontofHous
The staff that work outside of the kitchen (servers, hosts, bartenders). They are responsible for maintaining the image and impression of the restaurant, and fielding ay issues that may arise with customers.
FamilyMeal
A meal provided for the staff before or after service each day. The meals are often creative and diverse, allowing the chef who prepares it to stretch their culinary skills and try new ideas for their peers.
An Atelier student enjoys one of Chef Horton's culinary creations for lunch.
Prominent on his to-do list is the optimization of daily nutrition to ensure the best possible learning environment and experience for the students. Horton has studied clinical nutrition and knows that getting the right ratio of protein and vitamins in his meals can have a huge effect on the students’ days.
Nevertheless, there are still some things that even a Michelin-starred chef can’t convince a kid to eat.
“I had a lot of dreams of getting (the students) to eat a million vegetables, and they only eat steamed vegetables to this day,” Horton says.
Meals are served to students in big pans, family style. School Director Holly Linneman says this is an integral part of the communityfist nature of the school, allowing students and staff to connect over food.
Horton has drawn ideas from the best restaurants in the world, but reflects on te
family meals he ate and prepared at Saddle Peak Lodge for inspiration. These meals were often eclectic and diverse, and Horton says that is exactly what he goes for at Atelier.
“This is how you should feed people,” Horton says.
THIS PEOPLE. should is how YOUFEED
Despite the obvious differences between cooking in world-renowned restaurants versus a school cafeteria, Horton says many of the same principles have carried over. Getting a meal out on time is just as important — if not more so — when serving a horde of hungry second graders as it is in an upscale restaurant.
The slower pace and fewer hours
associated with the job have allowed Horton to finally develop obbies and breathe in his personal life. He says he’s “able to live now,” as opposed to the survival-mode he was stuck in amid the stress of the fin-dining world. For example, he paints to continue his artistic expression now that his cooking is more streamlined. Horton says when he thinks about work on his time off, it’s because he wants to.
Regarding the effort he puts into the school, Horton says he works because he cares about the students and he knows he’s reaping the benefits, too. “Being ere is important to me,” he says.
Where his sleepless nights used to be filled with dead about high-stress management decisions, Horton can now think about his kitchen in a positive light, excited to discover the ways he can make the school a better place.
Chef Adam Horton plates lunch for the Atelier students.
Columbia, you voted and named the best of Columbia! From Bronze and Silver to Gold, all our nominees brought the best and continue to prove why our city is so unique. In this special section, get the inside scoop on some of our nominees and winners.
We want to extend our congratulations to each of our nominees and winners, and remind our readers to keep shopping, reading and eating local.
Lakota Coffee Company
Since 1992, Lakota Coffee Co. has been providing the Columbia community with delicious coffee and a wonderful ambiance for relaxation, studying or catching up. “Columbia is such a great community to live in; we have a very loyal small business following within the community, and that is wonderful to see,” says Andrew DuCharme, the general manager and part-owner of Lakota Coffee. But Lakota serves more than just coffee. They provide fresh beans roasted in-house for customers to enjoy. “That is something that we take extreme pride in,” DuCharme says. “We have been working with several coffee importers for many years to bring us the best coffee that money can buy. They employ experts who
make sure that we continue to get the very best of the best!”
Along with the fresh coffee, Lakota would not be a well-known coffee staple of our community without the dedicated work of its team. “We would not be able to keep Columbia c affeinated without our wonderful staff member,” DuCharme says. “They truly are amazing with their smiles and dedication.”
Winning Silver for Best Coffee in Best of Columbia 2025 is a huge honor for DuCharme and his team. “Keeping Columbia fueled is what we do,” he says. “We greatly appreciate everyone who voted for us, and we hope to see you again soon.”
ServiceMaster of Columbia
10620 N. Hwy VV • 573-443-8383 • servicemasterofcolumbia.com
When disaster strikes, you need a quick, skilled and informed response — you need ServiceMaster of Columbia. Since 1972, ServiceMaster has been swooping in to help members of our community rebuild and recover from any disaster. Whether it’s cleaning up after a flood or ebuilding a home after a fie, ServiceMaster is accessible 24/7, strives for excellence and says they’re honored to serve the community in any way needed.
ServiceMaster is taking home three awards: two Golds for Go-To For Disaster Response and Best Home Repair, and a Bronze for Best Customer Service. President Adam Kinser says the team is humbled by the wins and it’s all due to their incredible team and wonderful customers.
The Works Bowl from Main Squeeze.
“(The team’s) willingness to answer the call 24/7 to serve our customers in their times of need once again proves that they are the backbone of our company,” Kinser says. “We are very thankful for each and every one of them. Also our awesome customers: with their feedback and constructive criticism, we are
able to improve our services and grow stronger, which enables us to serve our customers better and better with each incoming project.”
Kinser also says the strongest attribute is ServiceMaster’s willingness to serve others from any and all walks of life — it’s in the name. ServiceMaster is also involved in various local nonprofits and outeach programs, because their love for the community goes beyond business.
“Our company was created to serve others,” Kinser says. “That is always the most important thing to us. It's not just about money. Our customers are always at the forefront of our minds. When disaster strikes, call the company who cares, ServiceMaster of Columbia.”
ServiceMaster maintains strong relationships with their customers by being upfront and honest. They go above and beyond with each service provided, making them a beacon of relief and aid when disaster strikes.
The Clip Joint 1608 Chapel Hill Road • 573-445-3176 • theclipjointsalon.com
For The Clip Joint Salon & Spa, being crowned the Gold winner for Best Salon in Best of Columbia 2025 is a massive accomplishment. “We strive to offer the best in hairstyling in Columbia and surrounding communities,” Stacey Woods, owner of The Clip Joint, says. The Clip Joint has won gold multiple times in both the Hair Salon and Hair Stylist categories, dating back to 2009. “The fact that our loyal clients have voted us number one really means a lot to us. It's a testament to the hard work each stylist puts in every day.”
That hard work radiates throughout the community, as customers continue to return for service and recommend The Clip Joint as a trusted provider of salon care. “Columbia has a tight-knit community, where word-of-mouth and local support go a long way,” she says. “Clients tend to be loyal to businesses that engage with the community, providing an opportunity for us to build strong, lasting relationships with customers.”
The Clip Joint has been providing top-notch service to Columbia for more than 50 years and continues to adapt to new trends and the changing needs of customers. “Over such a long period, the salon has built a loyal clientele, with some families returning for generations,” Woods says.
The Clip Joint Team prides itself on making sure each guest is more than satisfied with the sevice they receive. “Our number-one priority is to keep our guests happy and feeling their best. We believe in showing up every day and working hard to earn that trust,” she says. “We believe the foundation of strong salon-client relationships is trust, consistency and a personalized approach.”
Winning Gold for Best Salon in Columbia is just another push for The Clip Joint to keep providing outstanding salon care to the mid-Missouri area. “We just want to continue to serve Columbia to the best of our ability. We are honored to be a part of this community.”
Jenna Sutton
The Clip Joint
1608 Chapel Hill Road
573-445-3176
theclipjointsalon.com
When you sit in Jenna Sutton’s chair at The Clip Joint, you can be sure whichever style, cut or color you want will meet the gold standard. Sutton, Gold winner for Best Hairstylist, has been working at The Clip Joint, Gold winner for Best Salon, for ten years. On top of that, she has 19 years of styling experience.
Sutton has continued her education through various courses: completing the Aveda Mastery Series program, Aveda color and cutting classes and more. Continual improvement is one of the cornerstones of Sutton’s styling career; her dedication to this, alongside her dedication to her clients, has brought her well-deserved recognition in our community. Sutton has previously been awarded Gold for Best Hairstylist in 2023 and took home Silver in 2024.
“I'm really honored to have been a finalist or Best of Columbia and especially thankful to be awarded best hairstylist for 2025,” Sutton says. “I hope every person who sits in my chair feels the love and energy I put into making them feel their best, so to be awarded this title feels very special.”
Sutton says this award would not have been possible if not for her loyal client base. Her main focus is always the guest; Sutton ensures everyone feels heard and understood in order to achieve their goal look. She also credits her team at The Clip Joint for their consistent support and inspiring dedication to the salon.
“Without the people who sit in my chair on a daily basis and trust me to do their hair, I wouldn't be where I am now,” Sutton says. “I am so thankful to get to wake up everyday and go to a job I love, and hang out with the kindest, most supportive clients. I also want to thank my boss, Stacey, who has always supported me.”
Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital
3505 Buttonwood Dr. • 573-449-7387 • rollinghillsvethospital.com
Our pets are our family — and family deserves the best. For 50 years, Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital has been delivering the top-notch care that has earned them Gold for Best Veterinary Practice.
Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital specializes in feline and canine care, while also treating “pocket pets”(hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs and rats) at their Buttonwood location. Their highly educated team is also equipped to offer preventative care, nutritional advice and general care recommendations for exotic pets including non-venomous snakes, turtles, bearded dragons and more.
Rolling Hills strives to create a welcoming environment for each pet that seeks their care; their team is staffed with compassionate animal experts. As pet lovers themselves, the team understands the deep connection and love families feel for their pets. Dr. Candace Stormer, chief of staff or the past two and a half years, has two dogs and three cats of her own, leading the
example for compassionate care and treating each pet as if it were her own.
“We strive to develop a strong rapport with our clients by treating their beloved pets like our own and getting to know them on an individual basis,” Shawna Palmer, hospital manager, says. “We have a group of dedicated and hardworking individuals, making it easy to care for and love our patients.”
The field of eterinary medicine is constantly evolving, so Rolling Hills stays on top of new treatments and protocols. They execute surgical procedures, run diagnostics, provide emergency care, utilize laser therapy and more. They also offer boarding options, and their pharmacy is in-house to have your pet’s medicine ready quickly.
On winning Gold, Palmer, Stormer and the team at Rolling Hills want to thank their loyal customers who continue to trust them. Don’t trust just anyone with your beloved pets — give them the expert care at Rolling Hills Veterinary Hospital, where they meet the gold standard every time.
Las Margaritas 10 Southampton Drive · 573-442-7500 | 220 S. 8th St. • 573-442-4300 | 5614 E. St. Charles Road, suite E. • 573-228-6700 • lasmargaritascolumbia.com
With nearly 30 years of experience, Las Margaritas knows how to make authentic Mexican food and drinks. It’s the reason the business can now proudly state that they have won Gold for Best Mexican Restaurant for the 12th year in a row! “Our entire company is so incredibly honored to be awarded Best Mexican,” says owner Francisco Esquivel. Las Margaritas also won gold once again for Best Margarita. “None of this would have been possible without our amazing team members and our fabulous customers,” he continues. “Thank you all for voting for us and giving us your constant support. "We are beyond thankful!”
While Las Margaritas has only been in Columbia since 2012, Esquivel has been dishing up authentic — and delicious — Mexican favorites since opening the first as Margaritas in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, in 1997. In fact, there are still three locations in Poplar Bluff oday. Francisco, who co-owns the business with his wife
Yolanda, says the Las Margaritas employees are the best in the business. “Each and every day, they create an atmosphere that feeds our guests’ bodies and souls. That’s only possible when you work with people you love and love what you do.” Each of the Las Margaritas locations sets out to serve authentic, fresh Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites. A few of their popular menu items include tacos carne asada especiales, their arroz margaritas and their molcajete ranchero, a crowd favorite that includes steak and chicken marinated with pasilla peppers and served in authentic molcajete with tortillas.
And make sure not to miss out on those award-winning margaritas that come in a variety of flvors (and sizes), from mango to banana. It really is the perfect complement to a delicious Mexican meal.
MUTRUX FIRM INJURY
Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers
2415 Carter Lane, suite 102 573-722-2121 completeinjurylaw.com
For Tyson Mutrux, CEO of Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, being named Best Attorney in Columbia is utterly humbling. “It's a powerful affirtion of the trust our clients and community place in us every day,” he says. “Personal injury law is about standing with people during some of their toughest moments — winning this recognition tells us we're doing right by them.”
Not only does Mutrux focus on ensuring that all clients are met with genuine compassion, he also wants them to feel supported throughout the process. “We meticulously prepare every case for trial to ensure our clients receive maximum justice,” he says. “We're deeply connected to Columbia, committed to leading and giving back to the community that has trusted us with their toughest moments.”
But none of it would be possible without the hard work from the Mutrux Firm team. “Our team genuinely cares about our clients, each other and the community. They're relentless advocates who combine deep legal expertise with heartfelt compassion, treating every client like family,” Mutrux says. They are keen on helping clients navigate tragic and dreadful times. “Above all, it's their unwavering dedication to helping people through life's toughest moments that truly makes them special.”
For Mutrux, being crowned Gold for Best Attorney is all thanks to each guiding principle they live by, whether it’s showing compassion and respect for all clients or passionately supporting the dreams of clients and all team members. “This honor reminds us why we do what we do, and it motivates us to keep making a meaningful difference,” Mutrux says. “It's also a testament to our incredible team at Mutrux Firm, who figt relentlessly for justice and compassionately serve every client.”
Mutrux Automotive
2100 W. Rollins Road • 573-445-1070 • mutruxauto.com
Mutrux Automotive once again brings home the Gold for Best Auto Repair Shop. Despite over 25 years in business and several Best Of wins, the team at Mutrux is still humbled by the love from the community.
“We are overwhelmed with the nominations, love and care our ‘best customers’ — as we like to call them — put into this,” Part Owner Cindy Mutrux says. “It’s like a huge hug from each of our customers. We have much gratitude for the trust and faith they put into each of us.”
At Mutrux Automotive, they don’t define sucess by their wins. Mutrux says they owe their success to the hard work and service of their incredible staff and, of course, the customers that have kept them in business for 25 years.
“We live by the golden rule,” Mutrux says on the core principles of her business. “We treat others the way we would want to be treated: with honesty, respect and safety.”
The team at Mutrux lives out the golden rule by treating each vehicle as if it were their own. They are upfront and honest with each customer and take the diligence to give each customer affordable repairs that are still top-notch quality.
When you bring your vehicle to Mutrux, you’ll receive not only the best auto repair in town but services that are difficult to find these dys. “We offer a service many do not … full service at the pump and a full-service garage,” Mutrux says. “We are hands on. A real person even answers the phone.”
Ross and Cindy Mutrux are not only devoted to providing the best service to the city, but also to involve themselves in philanthropic efforts in the community. They say Boone County is the right spot for them because it is full of local businesses and the best, most loyal customers.
Buchroeders Jewelers
1021 E. Broadway • 573-443-1457 • brdiamonds.com
As a business that has served Columbia since 1896, Buchroeders Jewelers takes great pride in being a trusted name during some of life's most important moments.
Whether you’re buying an engagement ring, an anniversary gift or a justbecause piece for someone special, you can feel confidet in your purchase at Buchroeders Jewelers, two-time consecutive Gold winner for Best Place to Buy Jewelry. The team at Buchroeders values transparency, quality and meaningful connections — which guides their excellent, informed customer service.
“At the heart of it all, our principles are simple but powerful: do the right thing, do it with excellence and always keep improving,” Seth Lindenbusch, Buchroeder’s general manager, says. “That's the Buchroeders way.”
Their team is empowered, not just employed. Every member of the staff plays a vital role in delivering the exceptional experience they’re known for. Buchroeders competitively prices every diamond with help from their sister company, Diamond Banc, and builds value -added offers into the experience.
Programs like their free wedding band offer and in-house Assurance Plan are designed to give Columbia clients more than just a ring — because Buchroeders knows that trust is earned, and they’re here for the long haul.
Shopping for an engagement ring or fine jeelry doesn’t have to be intimidating. Buchroeders is anchored by three guiding principles: transparency, innovation and generosity. These values have led Buchroeders to 125 years in business, providing Columbia with top-of-the-line fine jeelry, diamonds and a client-driven, generous, unforgettable experience.
“Being recognized once again as Columbia's Best Place to Buy Jewelry is an incredible honor, and we don't take it lightly,” Lindenbusch says. “It inspires us to keep raising the bar and finding new ays to deliver value, clarity and care to every client who walks through our doors or connects with us online. We're grateful to be recognized as Columbia's Best Place to Buy Jewelry again — and we're excited to keep earning that title every single day.”
Back Row (left to right): Adam Bostick, Jesse Miller, Seth Lindenbusch Front Row (left to right): Claire Dinwiddie, Arika Smith, Angie Salzman
Operator Ryan Hilderman, serving since 2021
Doug
2803 N. Creasy Springs Road • 573-442-4616 • dptcomo.com
For Doug Perry Towing, winning Gold for Best Towing Company in Best of Columbia 2025 is a huge honor. “It signals that our business is not only meeting expectations but exceeding them — delivering quality, consistency and value that people genuinely recognize,” Owner Ashley Perry says. The quality and value delivered wouldn’t be possible without the amazing team at Doug Perry Towing. “What makes our employees so valuable is their unwavering commitment to service,” she says. “They work in all kinds of conditions — day or night, rain or shine — and always bring a calm, capable presence to every call.”
Being able to serve the Columbia community for 45 years comes from an unmatched dedication to customers, providing services during some of the most stressful times in a person’s life. “That kind of longevity doesn't happen by accident. It comes from consistently delivering reliable, professional service and
earning the trust of generations of customers,” Perry says.
No matter if they are helping a long-time customer in the community or someone new to town, Doug Perry Towing has the same motto for every client. “Treat people the way you'd want to be treated. That mindset drives every interaction we have — whether it's a first-time aller or someone we've helped for years,” Perry says.
For Doug Perry Towing, this is more than a medal; it’s a refletion of its dedication to the community and its team. “We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Columbia community for their trust and support over the years. We'd also like to thank our amazing team. They are the backbone of everything we do,” Perry says. “This recognition is not just about us — it's about the trust and support of this amazing community. It reflets the relationships we've built and the commitment we've made to providing reliable, honest service.”
Perry Towing
3Fifteen Primo Cannabis
4003 Ponderosa St. • 573-355-2866 • 3fiteenprimo.com
3Fifteen Primo Cannabis is committed to making cannabis accessible, affordable and easy to enjoy for all customers. Winning Gold for Best Dispensary/CBD is just one step in continuing that mission. “We combine top-tier service with unbeatable value, and that's why our community voted us Columbia's number one dispensary,” says Erika Jones, the general manager for 3Fifteen Primo.
This win not only reflets the quality of the product but also the incredible 3Fifteen Primo staff. “This recognition means that our customers see and appreciate the work we put in every day to create a welcoming, knowledgeable and trustworthy cannabis experience,” Jones says. Providing quality products and services in Columbia allows 3Fifteen Primo to work with people at all different stages of their wellness journey. “Columbia brings together people from all walks of life who are open to wellness, education and new experiences, all of which align perfectly with our mission,” Jones says. “The support we've received from locals, students and longtime residents has fueled our growth and kept us grounded.”
3Fifteen Primo is proud to work in the Columbia community and looks forward to continuing to be surrounded by a sense of connection, inclusivity and support. “Columbia is a place where small businesses are celebrated, neighbors lift each other up and progress is embraced,” Jones says. “Being part of this community motivates us to show up every day with purpose, to serve with integrity and to give back whenever we can.”
Winning Gold for Best Dispensary/CBD would not have been possible without the support of all customers. “We want to give a huge thank you to our amazing staff and our incedible customers — your support, loyalty and votes are the reason we're here,” Jones says. “Whether you're new to cannabis or a longtime customer, you'll always be welcomed like family. We're proud to be part of this city, and we're just getting started.”
f lavor
The Perfect Bite
LEARN TO PREP, ASSEMBLE AND PLATE HEARTY HUEVOS RANCHEROS.
BY BROOK HARLAN • PHOTOS BY L.G. PATTERSON
At school, we have morning practices for students registered in competitions. One of the most requested breakfasts is Huevos Rancheros. It is a crowd favorite and with a little prep, it can be assembled in a matter of minutes. If you can cook an egg, you have the skill to prep and plate this dish for two or twenty. The name roughly translates to cowboy eggs, referring to the rancheros or horsemen who would corral the cows in Mexico. It’s commonly served over a tostada with some type of salsa, sauteed vegetables, sometimes meat and some type of fried egg (typically sunny side up or over easy).
The Tostada
While not mandatory, a tostada adds a crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the cooked vegetables and soft egg. If you're making just one, fry the tortilla for about 30 seconds per side in roughly a half-inch of oil heated to 365 degrees (look for gentle sizzling, not vigorous bubbling). For larger batches, fry each for about 20 seconds and then place them on a tray to reheat in the oven before assembling.
The Body
While garlic, peppers, onions and tomatoes are the most common vegetables, you don’t have to stop there — raid the fridge! Start by sauteing your hardier vegetables like onions, bell peppers and jalapenos. Then add mushrooms, squash and corn. Finish with garlic for the best flvor. The final textue is up to you; most people cook the vegetables just enough to enhance their flvor without making them mushy. You can also add fresh elements — diced tomatoes, jalapenos or avocado — on top for contrast. Another popular addition is a layer of refried beans spread on the tostada.
The Egg
A non-stick pan and a rubber spatula are your best tools here. You can either cook the eggs to order or slightly undercook them, and transfer them to a lightly oiled sheet tray or casserole dish. Finish them in a 350-degree oven for three to five miutes. Alternatively, fry the eggs ahead of time and keep them at room temperature for up to an hour before reheating. They can also be prepared the day before and refrigerated, then reheated just before serving.
The Topping
Toppings are where you can get creative. Add hot sauce, sour cream, cheese, various salsas, fresh cilantro, green onion or other flvorful garnishes. You can either add these directly to each plate or set them up buffet-style so guests can build their own.
Ingredients Huevos Rancheros
4 corn tortillas
Oil as needed
4 eggs
½ white onion, diced
½ red onion, diced
1 ear of corn - kernels removed
1 small bell pepper, diced (feel free to use more or more than one color of pepper)
2-3 tomatoes, diced or sliced
Instructions
Prep all ingredients. Cook about half of the onions, pepper, corn and tomatoes in a small amount of oil over medium heat for three to four minutes then add a little salt and pepper. In about a half-inch of oil, fry the corn tortillas to make the tostadas; this will take about 20 to 30 seconds per side. Fry the eggs either sunny side up or over easy. Cook the sausage in a pan and set aside.
ASSEMBLE LATER
Once all of your prep is ready, you can put it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook (best done within 24 hours). When you are getting ready to feed your guests, you can place the items you need to reheat on a sheet tray, casserole dish or other oven-safe vessel. Heat the eggs, sausage, vegetable mixture and tortillas for three to five minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven. Remove, place the pan(s) on a trivet or towel and plate the tostada with some of the cooked vegetables and sausage, then top with the egg. Garnish the top with the other vegetables, avocado, cilantro and sour cream, then squeeze some lime juice over the top.
4
8-12 ounces chorizo or other sausage
1 avocado, sliced
1 jalapeno or serrano pepper
½ bunch of cilantro, minced
1 lime, to juice on top
3-4 ounces queso fresco
2-3 ounces sour cream (add some lime juice)
Salt and pepper as needed
ASSEMBLE NOW
If you are assembling right away, you can plate the tostada with some of the cooked vegetables and sausage, then top with the egg. Garnish the top with the other vegetables, avocado, cilantro and sour cream, then squeeze some lime juice over the top.
ummer Spice
UNIQUE DRINK COMBINES BRUNCH FLAVORS WITH BEER.
BY PAUL HUESGEN
PHOTO BY L.G. PATTERSON
This cocktail-beer fusion is unique to our brewery and has been a cult classic for more than 30 years. It is all nose and finish. The beers light spice and robust flvor come from 50 pounds of Anaheim peppers added during fermentation for its signature chili flvor. We also add three pounds of jalapenos and one and a half pounds of serrano peppers to give this brew a touch of heat.
PaulHuesgenisthegeneralmanagerof FlatBranchPub&Brewing.
Green Chili Beer Bloody Mary
Ingredients
House bloody mix (tomato juice, pepper, celery salt, worcestershire sauce, Tabasco)
Flatbranch’s Green Chili beer
Flatbranch’s house-made Cajun spice, which is also used in the Bayou pasta
Instructions
In a pub glass, start with a shake or two of Tabasco, another of worcestershire and a generous dash of celery salt and pepper. Then, throw in a big splash of Green Chili beer, fill the glass with ice and shake. Serve into a pint glass with a Cajun-spiced rim.
Sage Brunch, Coffee
Cafe Berlin Bakery, Cafe
Ocha Noodles and Ramen Ramen, Thai-fusion
Sycamore American, Farm-to-Table
Flat Branch Pub & Brewing American, Brewpub
Room 38 Small Plates, New American
Glenn’s Cafe Cajun, Upscale Southern
CoMo Smoke and Fire Smokehouse, Barbecue
Nourish Café & Market Bowls, Smoothies
D. Rowe’s Restaurant & Bar Grill, Sandwiches
FROM CLASSIC RESTAURANTS TO NEW EATERIES, Columbia boasts a range of dining options like no other. Whether you’re looking for a trending spot for date night, dinner with the family or brunch with friends, our city’s cuisine scene includes the best of the best. In each issue, Inside Columbia selects a handful of our favorite restaurants for a glimpse at what our town has to offer your tastebuds.
Park Restaurant & Bar American
Located off Discovery Parkway, Park offers a contemporary American dining experience with a focus on local flavors and seasonal ingredients. The menu features a variety of small plates and entrees, including popular dishes like bulgogi nachos, their poke bowl and coconut salmon. The restaurant boasts a cozy atmosphere with a fireplace, a bourbon display and an outdoor patio, making it an inviting spot for both casual meals and special occasions. The bar is known for its expertly crafted cocktails, such as the Park Old Fashioned and Manhattan, as well as a selection of local craft beers and wines. Plus, diners end the night with a complimentary shot glass of chocolate mousse.
Broadway Brewery Brewpub, Farm-to-Table
G&D Pizzaria Pizza
Jina Yoo's Asian Bistro Asian Fusion, Sushi
Bangkok Gardens Thai
Dive Bar American, Comfort
The Roof American, Tapas
Günter Hans European, Beer Garden
Sophia’s Italian, Mediterranean
Addison’s American, Casual Dining
Le Bao Asian Eatery Asian Fusion
CC’s City Broiler Steakhouse
Shortwave Coffee Cafe, Coffee
Broadway Diner American, Diner
Barred Owl Butcher & Table Farm-to-Table, Butcher Shop
11 Eleven Shareables, Contemporary
Irene’s
Mexican, Barbecue, Southwestern
Irene’s serves up something unique for Columbia residents, what they call “inauthentic barbecue” and a menu that blends Southwestern, Mexican and Caribbean flavors. Featuring smoked meats like carne asada, barbacoa and green chili pork, as well as inventive sides, Irene’s is sure to please. The atmosphere is casual and communal, with counter service, indoor and outdoor seating, and a full bar with a wide selection of craft beers, specialty cocktails and a curated list of artisan tequilas and mezcals. Plus, Irene’s offers fresh tortillas and bread for purchase. Whether you’re looking for a casual dinner or Saturday brunch, Irene’s is the place to be.
Flyover
American, Farm-to-Table
Known for its inventive menu that emphasizes local ingredients and bold flavors, Flyover is surely a local favorite. The restaurant features an open kitchen and wood-fired oven as the focal point, with a menu of eight always-offered dishes, such as soft pretzels, midwestern carnitas and their famous midwestern mac and cheese. The rest of the menu changes daily, put together at the creative whims of chef Adam Wells-Morgan. Flyover also offers a wide variety of drink options, including a Best of Columbia 2025 Goldwinning cocktail menu. Flyover gives an elevated dining experience that still feels approachable, and is a favorite among locals for date nights, special occasions or simply a great meal out.
Booches Billiard Hall American, Burgers
Murry’s American, Jazz Bar
Kampai Sushi Sushi, Japanese
Love Coffee Cafe, Bakery
Ellianna’s Donut Shop Donuts, Pastries
Beet Box Middle Eastern
Grand Cru French American, Wine Bar
44 Tavern American, Fusion
House of Chow Chinese
Delia's Mexican Grill Mexican, Tex-Mex
Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream Ice Cream, Sorbet
Pizza Tree Pizza
Cafe Poland Polish, European
The Heidelberg American, Pub
Belly Market & Rotisserie Deli
Main Squeeze Vegan, Juice Bar
Ozark Mountain Biscuit & Bar Southern Comfort
Big Mama's Cafe American Breakfast
Delysium Artisan Bakery Pastries, Coffee
views
Big Derby Party
The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri held its 10th annual Big Derby Party presented by EquipmentShare. Scores of patrons, decked in dazzling outfits, enjoyed ham biscuits, bundt cakes and bourbon as they celebrated the race and Sovereignty's victory. The real wins of the day, however, were the tens of thousands of dollars raised for the children of Columbia.
1. Lorraine and Gus Gustavis
2. Kimberly and Josh Moore
3. Red and Nema Glidewell
4. Ann Merrifield and ayla Inez
5. Larry and Pamela Flowers
6. Cecilia and Manuel Martinez
Date
May 3
Location Country Club of Missouri
Photos by Nancy Toalson and Wally Pfeffer, mizzouwally@compuserve.com
La Soirée Gourmande
1 2 3 5 4 6
An elegant evening of desserts, champagne and giving brought the community together for the 14th annual fundraiser to support the La Petite Ecole scholarship fund. Guests enjoyed decadent desserts judged by local celebrities Brian Lambiotte, Scotty Cox and Norm Ruebling. The evening was a celebration of culture, community and commitment to accessible education.
1. Rose Cummings, Fatima Atié, Kelli Johnson
2. Wes and Stephanie Warnhoff
3. Katie Harris, Katerina and Chris Papageorgio, Jeff Harri
4. Norm Ruebling, Scotty Cox, Brian Lambiotte
5. Dilbar Mehdi, Marissa Roll, Pam McAllister
6. Soo-Yeon Cho, Kelley and Jacob Rogers, Susan Currier, Pam McAllister, Susan Botkins
Date April 25
Location La Petite Ecole
Photos by Terese Dishaw and Joelle Quoirin joelleq@petiteecole.org
Do you ever wonder “Why am I even with this bank?”
It’s too easy to accept a mediocre experience when banking is just a part of life. Before, it seemed like I had to jump through every hoop for my bank. I wanted a bank that would actually work for me.
Look, switching banks is a big decision. I never made the e ort before, because I assumed I’d just get the same thing. After switching to The Bank of Missouri, I’ll never wonder if my bank can do more.
The bank of not settling. The Bank of Missouri.
Here are the
Annuities LifeInsurance
DisabilityIncomeInsurance
Long-TermCareInsurance
MedicareSupplementInsurance
CriticalIllnessInsurance
EmployeeBenefitPlans
IRAs
InsuranceproductsandservicesareofferedbyMutualofOmahaInsuranceCompanyoroneofitsaffiliates.Homeoffice:3300MutualofOmahaPlaza,Omaha,NE68175. MutualofOmahaInsuranceCompanyislicensednationwide.UnitedofOmahaLifeInsuranceCompanyislicensednationwide,exceptNewYork.UnitedWorldLifeInsurance CompanyislicensednationwideexceptConnecticut,NewYorkandtheVirginIslands.CompanionLifeInsuranceCompany,Hauppauge,NY11788-2934,islicensedinNewYork. OmahaInsuranceCompanyislicensedinallstatesexcept:AL,CA,CO,ID,IL,LA,NC,NH,NV,NY,PR,RI,VI,VTandWI.Productsnotavailableinallstates.Eachunderwriting companyissolelyresponsibleforitsowncontractualandfinancialobligations.IndividualmedicalcoverageavailablethroughMutualofOmahaMarketingCorporation,andis underwrittenbyvariousinsurers.RegisteredRepresentativesoffersecuritiesthroughMutualofOmahaInvestorServices,Inc.aRegisteredBroker/Dealer.MemberFINRA/SIPC. InvestmentadvisorrepresentativesofferadvisoryservicesthroughMutualofOmahaInvestorServices,Inc.,aSECRegisteredInvestmentAdvisoryFirm. MutualofOmahaAdvisorsisadivisionofMutualofOmahaInsuranceCompany. 456006
Inside Columbia Turns 20
CELEBRATING THIS MILESTONE WITH A MEANINGFUL REFLECTION.
Inside Columbia magazine is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and I couldn’t be more proud of what this publication has accomplished and represented over these last two decades. More than a magazine, Inside Columbia has served as a meaningful reflection of the very best that our city has to offer. From the landmarks that make us unique and historic to the unique personalities who give our city its color and flvor, we’ve made it our business to celebrate the many reasons you love Columbia.
I remember that day in the spring of 2005 when Mizzou legend Norm Stewart unveiled a gigantic version of our firs cover at our launch party. Of course, Coach Stewart appeared on that first cover dessed to the nines in a handsome tuxedo with a basketball in hand. We didn’t know at the time that Missouri’s true son and our beloved late Mayor Darwin Hindman would share the record for adorning the cover of our magazine more times than any other Columbian over these last 20 years. It makes perfect sense. This magazine has always been dedicated to showing off our tim-honored traditions juxtaposed against the quirky, unconventional attributes that make this town such a great place to live, work and have fun.
This edition is certainly no exception. For 18 years, our most recognizable franchise has been the Best of Columbia awards, where we draw attention to our favorite things about this city. Through the years, literally millions of votes have been cast by you, our readers, picking your favorite restaurants, media personalities and places to take visitors. While some of the winners inadvertently reign for years, there’s a new crop of discoveries every year that make the cut and we always feel richer for knowing about them.
Of course, our editorial endeavors have not always been about our best and brightest. Over the years, our editors have also tackled some subjects that reveal the more complex nature of Columbia’s collective personality. From deep dives into issues like drug use in our local schools, homelessness and the plight of a young man wrongly accused and prosecuted for a murder he did not commit, we haven’t shied away from the topics that occasionally dull our city’s shine. We may have ruffled a few feathers along the way, but as local journalism has followed a precipitous decline, it’s important for all of us to know where we’re vulnerable and, frankly, where we can do better.
Former Columbia Daily Tribune Publisher Hank
Waters once referred to me as “Columbia’s Fattest Cheerleader.” My feelings were bruised momentarily, but it wasn’t long before I embraced the moniker along with the responsibility to put Columbia’s best foot forward on the pages of this magazine. We’ve always wanted to give people a reason to exit off Iterstate 70, if only for a few hours, or to consider sending their kids to the University of Missouri one day. Columbia has always had a good story to tell. We may not be experiencing our finest hou as a community under current circumstances, but we know there are still great days ahead. As I think about the writers, editors, designers and marketing reps whose names have appeared in our bylines over the years, I realize these are the folks to whom the credit is largely due. Through various forms of sacrifice and selflessness, they always deliver exceptional work. Even if the pay was never very good, we still had a closet full of awards from the Missouri Association of Publications and the City and Regional Magazine Association. In 2011, the Great Plains Journalism Awards named us Magazine of the Year.
While my late wife, Melody, and I were employees No. 1 and No. 2, it’s only appropriate that I give a nod here to employee No. 3, my junior high locker
BY FRED PARRY
partner, L.G. Patterson. He has been an integral part of our team for a whopping 31 years. No single photographer has captured a more vast collection of the sights and happenings of our community than L.G. We are eternally appreciative for his talents … and we’ve even grown to tolerate his artistic idiosyncrasies over the decades. Finally, I’d be foolish to omit the fact that none of this would have been possible without the support of our readers, subscribers and advertisers. Your steadfast commitment to locally owned and produced journalism is how we’ve paid the bills, and the reason we get up and go to work every day. From the team at Zimmer Communications, please accept our heartfelt thanks and admiration for your loyalty. With your continued support, we’ll look forward to doing this for another 20 years.
