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Joplin Arts District
Where it’s ‘COOL’ to be YOU!
New year … lots of exciting new things going on in downtown Joplin! Keep reading for the best in local arts, entertainment, shopping and dining in the Joplin Arts District.
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JOPLIN ARTS DISTRICT NEWS - A snapshot of news, events and activities happening in January.
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub. Open Mic Standup Comedy. Every Sunday. 8:30 p.m. Free admission. 510 South Joplin Avenue. Chaos Brewing Company. Wednesday Trivia Night. Sign up starts at 5 pm, game starts at 7 pm. Free to play. 112 South Main Street. Plant Parenthood presents plants in a Boho atmosphere, along with art from eight local artists at 528 South Main Street. Featuring art from Marta Churchwell, Merlen White, Daria Claiborne, Connie Miller, Raelynn Willis, Lois Sayle and Brent Skinner. Urban Art Gallery. Presenting “Geisha,” a collection of paintings by Merlen White throughout January. 511 South Main Street. Local Color Art Gallery. Walk-in art classes all month long for different mediums and instructions. See their Facebook page to learn more. TuesdaySaturday. 1027 South Main Street. Spiva Center for the Arts presents three shows: “Holly Wilson: The Threat that Connects Us” in the Main Gallery; the State Historical Society of Missouri’s collection of 91 editioned lithographs of Thomas Hart Benton in the Four State Gallery; “The Third Grade Collaboration” in the Reserve Gallery, opening January 17. 212 West Seventh Street. Dream Theatre Co. She Kills Monsters. January 5-7, 7:30 pm. PG13. $15. RSVP 417.622.6470. 124 South Main Street. Pennington Station. Presenting “Youth D&D.” January 12 and 23, 6-8 pm. For information, call 417.719.1152. 518 South Virginia Avenue. The Cornell Complex. Connect2Culture presents two theatrical productions in January. The Call of the Wild: Illustrated Edition, January 21, 2 pm. Mad River Theatre Works presents “Freedom Flight” about the Underground Railroad. Both productions are for ages 8+. Tickets $10/$15. 20% off by single payment for a group of more. For groups, call 417.501.5550. 212 West Seventh Street. For more events and activities, please visit Connect2Culture.org, DowntownJoplin.com and @JoplinArtsDistrict on Facebook.
ART ON THE WALL: Where to view locally made artwork on display in January. Koral Martin, “Nature: Petals to Wings”
Photography Beast & Barrel 530 South Main Street
Merlen White, “January Nights”
Acrylic Paintings Joplin Avenue Coffee Company 506 South Joplin Avenue
Kathleen House, “Housewife & Handyman”
Pastels and Oil Paintings Club 609 609 South Main Street
Countryside in the City Florist • Event Planner Event Venue 422 S. Joplin Ave. 417.781.3719 www.countrysideflowers.biz

Countryside in the City is one of the leading florists in Joplin for fine, quality roses, flowers, plants and gifts for every occasion. Let our experienced designers and staff create a one-of-a-kind gift you will love. We also offer beautiful custom-designed wedding flower arrangements including wedding bouquets, centerpieces and boutonnieres. Open Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm and Saturday 9 am-1 pm. Convenient parking.
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub 510 S. Joplin Ave Joplin, MO 417.623.2485 Facebook: @ BlackthornPizza&Pub

Blackthorn Pizza & Pub is a welcoming and inclusive Irish pub in the heart of downtown Joplin. This hip spot is famous for its delicious food, huge beer selection on tap, the area’s best live music and unforgettable drag shows. Follow Blackthorn on Facebook for upcoming events. Open 7 days a week and now also open for lunch Thursday through Monday.
By Kristi Spencer Photos by Mandy Edmonson
Undercliff Grill and Bar
Nestled on the bank of Shoal Creek, Undercliff Bar and Grill is more than just your typical restaurant. The restaurant sits on land that was originally home to a general store and gas station—beloved by locals for its unique location at the base of a cliff wall. In the 1960s, it transformed into Frank & Bonnie’s Restaurant, famous for its delicious fried chicken. After burning down in the 1980s, this historic spot resurfaced with new life when rebuilt in 1995.
Today, the Undercliff is owned by Brad Ezell. Ezell undertook a 2.5year renovation of the building to bring customers an innovative dining experience. The decor celebrates Undercliff’s past. Historic photos juxtaposed with neon signs compliment the signature back cliff wall. As a child, Brad Ezell would sit at a table in the middle of the Undercliff enjoying meals alongside his beloved grandparents. A metal model airplane, lovingly handcrafted by Ezell’s grandfather, hangs from the ceiling and is an eyecatching centerpiece. The menu offers a host of mouth-watering menu options. Fresh-made fried pickles, onion rings and battered fish are favorites, along with their burgers, made to order. The fried chicken garners its fair share of attention—an ode to the Undercliff’s storied past. According to Ezell, the dishes served here are classic recipes with unique twists. Friday night prime rib specials are made with locally sourced beef from Hatfield’s Meats. OTT’S Salad Dressing, made up the road in Carthage, accompanies all salads. At The Undercliff, all the perfect accompaniments for your dining experience are available at the fully stocked bar. Treat yourself to a classic cocktail pairing or try a flavorful flight of margaritas featuring Italian, peach and melon flavors. If you are a Bloody Mary fan, make sure not to miss out on Undercliff’s version—the secret is in the mix! Every Thursday brings live music to the venue. When the weather allows, you can enjoy a meal on the covered porch or a drink at the outdoor bar, all while admiring nature and getting an unexpected thrill as a train occasionally roars by. Visiting the Undercliff Bar and Grill is a memorable experience. The Undercliff is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Friday. On weekends, you can also enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Undercliff Bar and Grill truly brings together the best of what the Four States has to offer.






Casa Montez
4224 S. Main St. • Joplin, MO 417.624.2272
Casa Montez is back in business and ready to serve you! The team at Casa Montez is serving up all of your favorite recipes as before as well as their famous cheese dip. If you’re looking for the perfect Mexican cuisine including delicious tacos, enchiladas, fajitas and so much more, you must visit Casa Montez at their new location. Call ahead for your to-go order and conveniently pick up at the walk-up window. $-$$ Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11 am-8 pm

Haven 55
408 Havenhurst Drive • Pineville, MO 417.223.2055 • www.haven55.com

Just a Taste
105 S. Main St. • Webb City, MO 417.673.9463 • www.justatastemo.com
Just A Taste Webb City has a plethora of incredible spaces for you to try out. Every time you come in, you can have a unique experience. Visit our tasting room, which features our own wine made in St. James, Missouri. Or, join us for dinner in our intimate restaurant or indoor courtyard, where we feature a farm-to-table menu. Or, stop in for a drink in our cozy cocktail bar featuring an inventive cocktail menu and hundreds of beer and spirits. $$-$$$. Check Facebook for hours.

Sam’s Cellar Bar & Oven
101 N. Wood • Neosho, MO 417.451.3330 • www.samscellar.com
Haven 55 is a cozy country restaurant with a magnificent view, delicious homestyle food and exceptional service. The culinary masterpieces from Owner and Executive Chef Alan Bone cannot be beat. You will love the New York strip steak with blue cheese cream sauce, the fried green beans, and you don’t want to miss Wednesday Night prime rib! Located on the site of the old Havenhurst Mill, built in 1868, this historical restaurant overlooks the dam on Little Sugar Creek. $-$$$ Sam’s Cellar offers a unique dining experience under the historic square in Neosho, MO. Enjoy gourmet wood-fired pizzas, burgers, wings, wraps, subs or a specialty salad. The full bar offers signature cocktails, draft beers and wine to wet your whistle. Come visit us at Sam’s Cellar for a dining experience you will never forget! $-$$ Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11 am-Close

Finn’s
2707 E. 32nd Street • Joplin, MO 417.624.3466 • www.finnsjoplin.com
Finn’s is a semi-fine dining restaurant that caters to all your dining desires. Enjoy our dog-friendly patio and warm, inviting fireplaces. From our uniquely crafted cocktails, farm-fresh ingredients and Joplin’s best in-house bakery paired with our elegant, intimate atmosphere for small gatherings or a night out. Finn’s chefs are experts in their craft, with just the right touch to make your restaurant experience special. $$-$$$ Hours: Monday -Saturday: 11 am-9 pm Sunday: CLOSED

Undercliff Grill & Bar
6835 Old Highway 71 • Joplin, MO 417.629.2869 • www.theundercliffgrill.com

Bailey’s Family Dining
1200 Briarbrook Dr. • Carl Junction, MO 417.781.2944 • Like us on Facebook!
Bailey’s restaurant offers a variety of home-cooked meals that are sure to satisfy. Enjoy one of our many delicious burgers with hand-breaded onion rings or try a pulled pork chimichanga. On the weekend, join us for breakfast where everything is made from scratch. From sweet to savory, we offer specialty pancakes, omelets and all your breakfast favorites. $-$$ Hours: Monday-Friday 11 am-10 pm; Saturday-Sunday 7 am-10 pm.

Shawanoe Restaurant
70220 East Hwy 60 • Wyandotte, OK 888.992 SKY1
Undercliff Grill & Bar is back in business! This historical restaurant has been brought back to life under new ownership, so come by to grab a bite to eat and see what’s new. Chow down on some good old-fashioned comfort food or grab a beer at the bar. Undercliff Grill & Bar is the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, a date or a night out with friends and family. Follow Undercliff Grill & Bar on Facebook to learn more! $-$$. Hours: Wednesday-Friday, 11 am-9 pm; Saturday, 9 am-9 pm; Sunday, 9 am-3 pm. Shawanoe Restaurant, located inside Indigo Sky Casino is serving delicious award-winning Chef creations daily. Bring your family and friends and enjoy delicious desserts, gourmet sandwiches, upscale salads, and a wonderful selection of pasta dishes. For the steak lover, mouth-watering steaks cooked to perfection. Featuring our 2.5 pound bone-in tomahawk ribeye with a variety of seafood and poultry. Everything to satisfy your appetite, plus your favorite beverage. Go to indigoskycasino.com for additional information. Located inside Indigo Sky Casino, Hwy 60 West of Seneca, MO. $-$$$

Crabby’s Seafood Bar and Grill
815 W. 7th St. • Joplin, MO • 417.206.3474 Catering • Private Parties • Chef at Home
Dine at Crabby’s for a beautiful meal in an elegant, yet approachable finedining experience. Choose from a wide variety of fresh seafood, steak and chops. Enjoy libations from our full bar, including the best Scotch selection in town. Serving the four states for 10 years! Make your reservations today! $$-$$$
Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm • Closed Sunday

Club 609
609 Main Street • Joplin, MO 417.623.6090
“Treat your appetite to a GOURMET DELIGHT served ‘Joplin style’.” Flavorful specialties for any occasion, featuring salads burgers and sandwiches. Delicious entrees – beef, chicken, pork, seafood and seven “pastabilities!” Offering appetizers, homemade desserts, soup du jour, beer, wine and mixed drinks. Kids menu available. $-$$$ Hours: Kitchen open Monday-Friday 11 am-10 pm Saturday 11 am-10:30 pm • Bar open later

TRACKSIDE
BURGERS & BBQ
Trackside Burgers & BBQ
1515 West 10th St. • Joplin, MO 417.717.1161

Taste of Italy
4321 S. Chapel Road • Carthage, MO 417.358.2000
Trackside Burgers & BBQ offers freshly made items to order. Chef Mike and his staff offer the old-fashioned hamburgers everyone loves and more! Homemade sauces and seasoned fries to perfectly prepared chicken sandwiches and onion rings, Chef Mike’s love for food and his heart to serve people. Call about catering for your next party or event! $-$$ “The trouble with eating Italian food is that five or six days later, you’re hungry again.” Taste of Italy serves up delectable, authentic Italian food with new specials almost daily. Owner and Head Chef Aleks Sula was born in Albania and raised in New York City, so he brings 20-plus years of experience in traditional Italian and Mediterranean cooking to his menu. You can expect made-from-scratch bread, sauces, pasta and more. $-$$ Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11 am-9 pm; Sunday, 11 am-3 pm

Hackett Hot Wings

Red Onion Café
203 E. 4th • Downtown Joplin, MO 417.623.1004 • www.redonioncafe.com
“The only wings better are on an angel.” Offering 13 flavors of wings, plus salads, catfish, chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, hamburgers, boneless wings and more! Call for catering and reservations. Now offering an additional dining area and sports room with 17 big-screen TVs and full bar featuring Coach Hackett’s Ultimate Bloody Mary. Check out the online store at hacketthotwings.com. (Smoke-free) $-$$
Hours: Mon-Thurs, 11 am-9 pm; Fri-Sun, 11 am-10 pm; Mon-Wed Lunch Specials, 11 am-2 pm; Mon-Wed Happy Hour, 3-6 pm.

Mis Arcos
1926 S. Garrison Ave. • Carthage, MO 417.237.0547
For the delicious authentic Mexican food you crave, there’s no place like Mis Arcos. We offer great choices from our mouthwatering quesadillas to sizzling fajitas to massive burritos, there’s a reason we were voted Best of the Four States for Mexican food! Did we mention our 2 for $5 margaritas? Mis Arcos is home of great food, fun times and lots of laughs! $-$$
Hours: Mon-Wed, 11 am-9 pm; Fri, 11 am-9:30 pm; Sat/Sun 11 am- 9 pm Casual urban dining in historic downtown Joplin since 1995. Famous for fresh salads, smoked chicken dip, burgers, pasta, grilled fish and steaks. The menu has a wide variety of gluten-free, low-carb and keto-friendly items. Extensive craft beer menu and wines by the glass. Full-service catering for groups large and small. Consistently voted “Best Restaurant” and “Best Menu” by 417 Magazine and The Joplin Globe. $-$$ Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-9 pm

Kascade Steakhouse
988 S. Country Club Rd • Carthage, MO 417.553.7357 • Like us on Facebook!
Kascade Steakhouse is Carthage’s newest spot for a delicious bite to eat. The chef is an expert in gourmet steaks, steakburgers, salmon and Italian food – his authentic alfredo is to die for. Come in on Fridays for the prime rib special. Under the same owners as Midway Café in Bartlesville, OK, where we are serving up the breakfast you have come to know and love. Dining room and lounge accommodates groups, events and weddings. $-$$ Open Tuesday-Saturday 4-9 pm.













By Amy Howe Photos by Mandy Edmonson The leaders featured in the following pages are some of the most influential people in our communities. They have a passion for what they do and seek to serve others in their communities. These individuals are proven leaders across a variety of industries, and we are sharing their stories so their positive reach can touch even more lives.
Show Me The Ozarks Magazine is excited to share the “Most Influential People” feature showcasing individuals who have stepped up as leaders, influenced positive change and made a difference in the community this past year. They are community leaders, our friends and our neighbors. We hope you enjoy reading about them and celebrating them with us as truly wonderful inspiring people in our community.

















