417 Magazine | The Ultimate Guide to Sushi | Septmeber 2025
Sailing in 417-Land
Learn about the vibrant sailing culture on Stockton and Fellows lakes, the annual sailing race that’s over 50 years old and the locals who have fallen in love with the sport.
Sushi State of Mind
Dive into our local sushi scene and discover the chefs behind some of the best sushi rolls in town.
ON THE COVER: Senior Photographer
Brandon Alms captured the prettiest soy sauce splash for this issue’s sushi-centric cover.
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE POLLOCK ESTES editor@417mag.com
MANAGING EDITOR & BUSINESS EDITOR DORI GRINDER dori@417mag.com
RESEARCH EDITOR JO JOLLIFF jo@417mag.com
CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS EDITOR & STAFF WRITER JORDAN BLOMQUIST jblomquist@417mag.com
PHOTOGRAPHER & DESIGNER KATY ST. CLAIR kstclair@417mag.com
DESIGN INTERN ALEX GODDARD
DIGITAL EDITOR JAMIE THOMAS jthomas@417mag.com
DIGITAL MANAGER ELIZABETH VANFOSSON evanfosson@417mag.com
CONTRIBUTORS JOSHUA BEECHER, TESSA COOPER, ESY WHITE CREATIVE, SONY HOCKLANDER, HEATHER KANE KOHLER, RYAN KOWALSKI, KRISTIN SHARP PHOTOGRAPHY, PAIGE LUTH, MORGAN LEA PHOTOGRAPH, JOHNNY PEREZ, DAN WILLIAMS
BUSINESS
PUBLISHER LOGAN AGUIRRE logan@417mag.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS AND CUSTOM PUBLICATIONS MEGAN JOHNSONmjohnson@417mag.com
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR LYNDSEY SLAGLE lslagle@417mag.com
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JAMI WIGHTMAN jami@417mag.com
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Social Life
GET OUT
Fall Festivals
INSTAGRAM + 417MAG.COM
After a blisteringly sticky summer, we’re looking forward to things cooling o a little, so we can make the most of the outdoors before things get chilly. Every year, we round up the best fall festivals happening throughout 417-land and the Ozarks to celebrate golden-brown leaves, cozy evenings and the annual return of pumpkin-spiced everything. From Apple Butter Makin’ Days in Mt. Vernon to Pumpkin Daze in Republic, we’ve got you covered for your fall festivities. Check out the list at 417mag. com/fallfestivals and don’t forget to tag us @417mag on social media when you’re out celebrating.
Patio Party
417MAG.COM
If you’re less about festivals and outdoor events and more into chilling on a patio with good company and a beautiful view, then check out our list of our favorite patios in and around 417-land. At 417mag.com/patios we list all of the best spots to sit in
the shade and enjoy good food, or soak up some sunshine with an icy drink as the days get cooler in the Ozarks.
VOTE
Best of 417 Voting Is Almost Here!
417MAG.COM
It’s that time of year again! Voting for the Best of 417 opens on September 24, and it’s your chance to tell us what you think are the best dishes, drinks, places to eat and more in 417-land. Head to 417mag.com/bestof starting Wednesday, September 24. Voting is open for two weeks, so make sure you don’t miss your chance to share your 417-land faves with us.
Get Social With Your Sushi
INSTAGRAM
Check out our social channels for more visuals captured while we were putting this issue’s sushi feature together. Share yours with @417mag on the usual channels. What are your favorite sushi spots and dishes? Let us know!
CELEBRATE
Start Planning Your Next Event
417MAG.COM
Hosting an event to remember means nding the best venue, entertainment, food, decor and potentially a lot more. We can help. We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to local resources and venues to help you plan your next event. Head to 417mag.com/eventplanning to learn more.
News Flash!
417MAG.COM
Feeling ushed, frustrated or stressed about perimenopause, menopause and all things hot ashes, mood swings and more? You’re not alone. Perimenopause and menopause can cause a lot of wildly di erent symptoms, problems and frustrations. And we get it. That’s why we’ve created our Hot Flash Happy Hour! Join 417 Magazine for an evening of education, comedy, cocktails at more on October 30. Find full details online at 417mag.com/hot ash.
DON’T MISS A THING
Visit 417mag.com/ newsletters to sign up for the best local newsletters. Table Talk brings you don’tmiss food news every Tuesday, Datebook o ers the top weekend events every Thursday, and House of 417 is your monthly passport to inspired living.
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Editor’s Note
PASS THE WASABI
Sushi is firmly planted in my top five favorite foods, and it is even No. 1 for a couple of night-out categories: best date night cuisine and best mother-daughter meal. Although, my sushi experience is di erent for each of those.
When it comes to date night, it’s all about experimentation. When it’s just me and my husband, Eli, sushi is an experience—and one that’s best shared with another person. He and I will likely toss a longtime favorite roll onto our order, but mostly we like to try avors we haven’t yet explored and order it all family-style so we both get to taste every single thing.
But when I’m spending a day with my daughter, Eloise, we approach sushi di erently. We each have our go-to order, and we never stray. Eloise is a curious combination of picky and adventurous when it comes to eating. She’ll try anything—but she rarely likes it. Sushi is a go-to, though, that never disappoints. Recently, she and I took a cute little axolotl painting class together and had time to grab lunch beforehand. I asked her what
she wanted, and she replied exactly as I expected: “Sushi!” She got her usual: a tuna roll, miso soup and edamame. I got my usual: salad and an array of di erent types of tuna nigiri. Eloise did her little sushi happy dance after her rst bite, so I know it was a hit.
I remember when I rst moved to Spring eld almost 20 years ago and tried local sushi for the rst time. I wasn’t so sure about it: Spring eld is really, really far from the ocean. Would the sh even be fresh? Early on in my career here at 417, we wrote a story about where, when and how local sushi restaurants get their sushi-grade sh, and I was pleased to see that some of my favorite eateries were ying the good stu in practically nonstop (or getting it from suppliers who do). The sh is, indeed, pretty darn fresh.
For this issue’s cover story, writer Tessa Cooper explored our local sushi scene and talked to the restaurateurs who pour themselves into making sushi that rivals that in any bigger city. She even got a chance to try the omakase at Ariake, a truly magical event that’s as much experience as it is a meal. Read more about it on p. 72, and then peruse our lists of excellent local sushi rolls so you can plan your next dinner out.
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR KATIE@417MAG.COM
TALK TO US
Stars in Our Eyes
The August edition’s cover story is all about tips for stargazing under the Ozarks’ darkest skies and stories about the locals working to protect our night skies. It came together thanks to writer and photographer Sony Hocklander and other talented folks like Brennen Du eld of Brennen Nicole Photography. If you missed the print edition, find the story at 417mag.com.—Editor
She Does it All
One of my favorite night sky images made the cover of 417 Magazine’s August issue. While my outdoor images have been published online and in print many times now—always so fun to see!—I was pretty excited the art department chose my Stockton Lake Milky Way for the front. When I was asked last year to write the cover feature about stargazing in the Ozarks, my answer was a fast yes because it’s a topic that personally interests me. It’s such a rich, layered package, there wasn’t room for all of it in print. Some (including a robust list of dark sky places recommended by people I interviewed and great tips by two amazing photographers) is only in the online story.
SONY HOCKLANDER, VIA FACEBOOK
The Dark Sky Advocate
Great article on Missouri Dark Skies. It was a pleasure to read. The Springfield Astronomical Society thanks you for this article.
LANE PIERCE
The Stargazing Photographer
Huge shout out to 417 Magazine and Sony Hocklander for the great interview and for using some of my images in the feature story “Stargazing in the Ozarks.” Thank you so much for the opportunity! BRENNEN DUFFIELD , BRENNEN NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY
To send us feedback or story ideas, email editor@417mag.com.
417-470-1633 —
Contributors
An Acquired Taste
I DIDN’T GROW UP EATING SUSHI. My childhood food memories revolve around my grandma’s homemade cornbread and freshly picked beans.
In fact, the rst time someone o ered me raw sh, I politely—but rmly—declined. Fast-forward to now, and my go-to celebration dinner is the classic Haruno roll with a lemon drop martini. Somewhere along the way, what once felt unfamiliar became a favorite.
This month’s cover story, “Sushi State of Mind” is your ultimate guide to sushi—a celebration of the chefs, restaurants and avors that’ve grown 417-land’s sushi scene from niche to must-try. And it got me thinking: How often do we resist what’s new, only to nd it becomes something we can’t imagine life without?
That applies far beyond food. Trying something new doesn’t mean you’ll love it right away. But it does mean you’re open. Maybe it’s trying a new hobby like sailing on Ozarks lakes (see p. 68), trying your hand at native plant gardening (see p. 66) or learning how to make your own soap (see p. 19).
As we settle into fall routines, I hope you’ll treat this season like a sampler platter. Try the thing. You might just surprise yourself and create a new fond memory.
PUBLISHER LOGAN@417MAG.COM
How to Make a Splash
Creating the soy sauce splash on this issue’s cover was a multi-person job. In our photo studio, Art Director Jordan Dykstra dropped a small pebble into a dish of soy sauce, while Creative Director Sarah Patton precariously held a piece of sushi just above the bowl. This created the e ect of the sushi being dunked into the soy sauce. The team utilized high-tech equipment including trash bag smocks to avoid getting splattered in soy sauce. They repeatedly dropped the pebble into the soy sauce from varying heights until Senior Photographer Brandon Alms caught the perfect splash. It was messy, but the reward was eating a lot of le over sushi.
PHOTOS BY KATY ST. CLAIR, CARRIE POWELL
BEHIND THE SCENES
Life on Canyon’s Edge
THE HOOD FAMILY FARM IS HOME TO THEIR BEAUTIFUL LOCAL SOAP COMPANY, GARDEN WORKSHOPS AND THE SWEETEST GOATS YOU’LL EVER MEET.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS
OZARKS VIBES
From e Field
IT’S JUST A QUICK WALK across the road from the Hood family’s home in Walnut Shade to their barn full of American Heritage Oberhasli goats and milking barn. MaryBeth Hood, along with her husband Paul Hood and their children, has created a home and property where they can spend their days raising their goats and chickens; growing a variety of vegetables, herbs and owers; tending to their small orchards; making artisan goat milk soap; and teach-
ing workshops, all while enjoying the most beautiful view of the Ozark mountains. The Hoods relocated to the Ozarks from Northern Pennsylvania, where they began a small family farm named Canyon’s Edge Farm. Attracted to the friendly mentality of the Midwest and the Ozarks’ lakes and rivers, the Hoods found the perfect place in Walnut Shade to move their farm.
Today, MaryBeth, Paul and their daughter Han-
Canyon’s Edge Farm Goat Milk Soaps
Find products online at canyonsedgefarm.com or at the Ozark Farmers Market at Finley Farms.
nah enjoy teaching gardening classes on their property, including herb gardening, seed starting and companion gardening. “The spark of curiosity is so fun to see,” says Paul. With 25 years of gardening experience, the Hoods have plenty of knowledge to share and provide classes for all ages, including young children.
In addition to their classes at Canyon’s Edge Farm, they teach soap-making
“There’s a creative and beautiful aspect to making our soaps.”
workshops at The Workshop at Finley Farms in Ozark.
It was MaryBeth who began making her own soaps using goat milk to resolve severe skin cracking that their daughter Sarah struggled with during the winter months in Pennsylvania. The family fell in love with the nourishing properties of the goats’ milk and so did their friends, so the Hoods’ soap business was born. Made with pure goat milk, essential oils and local ingredients, Canyon’s Edge Farm soaps are just as visually lovely as they are good for your skin. “There’s a creative and beautiful aspect to making our soaps,” says MaryBeth. In the lower level of the Hoods’ home is their soap studio, and it’s where their ingredients are kept as well. MaryBeth dries her own oranges, lemons and rose petals for many of their soaps and sources juniper berries from the property. Local honey is another main ingredient in many of the soaps, including their bestselling variety, Milk and Honey. The Hoods even grow their own loofahs that they use in their soaps.
Canyon’s Edge Farm soaps are not without purpose. Just as the Hoods’ classes and workshops help people to learn about gardening and soap-making, a percentage of soap sales is donated to nonpro t organizations that are close to the family’s heart. The Hoods have committed to giving 20% of their pro ts to organizations that are actively working to end human tra cking. “We believe everyone deserves an opportunity for a beautiful and healthy life,” says Hannah. “Our mission is to help women and children any way we can.”
MaryBeth and Paul Hood’s small family farm in Walnut Shade is home to their goats, chickens, gardens, orchards and artisan goat milk soap.
GRASSROOTS
Keeping College Station Theater Local
WITH MANY CHANGES OVER THE PAST 15 YEARS, PAUL
TILLMAN AND HIS DAD, SCOTT, HAVE DECIDED TO KEEP THE OWNERSHIP AND OPERATION OF COLLEGE STATION THEATER LOCAL.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
IMAGINE A PLACE WHERE THE warmth of a local business meets the nostalgia of the movie theater, creating a space that feels connected to every visitor—that’s the experience College Station Theater has designed. “My father built the theater over 15 years ago with the idea that, when he was a kid, we had the Fox Theater down there,” says Paul Tillman, real estate investment manager at Tillman Redevelopment. “He would go watch movies and spend some time downtown. By the time I was a kid, that wasn’t an option anymore, and it made
sense to him that a movie theater downtown would be a good indicator of a healthy downtown.”
The idea of adding a movie theater to the neighborhood was proposed and well accepted, and Paul and his dad, Scott Tillman, successfully secured Hollywood Theaters as a tenant. A few years later, Regal bought Hollywood Theaters, and eventually, Regal was bought out as well.
When Paul and Scott were exploring options for new regional-sized tenants, they were consistently worried that they were going to continue facing the issue of being bought out by larger companies. “Ultimately, what we kept coming back to is no
one’s going to love Spring eld as much as we do,” he says. “They’re not gonna care about Spring eld as much as we do, and they’re not gonna make the choices for this site the same way we would. And so we started exploring this idea of how hard can it be to run a movie theater? Turns out, it’s pretty challenging.”
Nonetheless, they hired great managers to help with dayto-day tasks, and the interior required minimal renovations. It is a truly locally owned and operated theater, a rarity in Springeld these days. One of the many bene ts of shifting operations locally is the pricing. “How is it that we can invest all this money and still charge less?,” Paul says. “We’re not really sure, but we’re doing it. So, from a community standpoint, we’re able to provide a superior experience for less money and hopefully get more people to the movies.”
Open now, College Station Theater has more than 800 reclining heated seats, 10 laser projectors and Dolby Atmos sound, and it is conveniently located next to one of downtown’s free parking garages. They have partnered with local businesses like Pineapple Whip, Co ee Ethic and Big Slice to o er their products at the theater for guests to enjoy while watching a lm. “The things that make Spring eld great are some of these unique businesses,” Paul says. They are also partnering with 1984 Arcade—another downtown Spring eld staple—to add some classic games to the theater as well. Over time, Paul hopes College Station Theater will bring more people downtown. “It’s a good, wonderful place to be,” Paul says.
Treat Your Pup
My Australian labradoodle, Piper, turns 6 next month. She is a sweet and cuddly little loaf of bread and is, for all intents and purposes, my third child.
Are we planning a birthday party for her? No. I haven’t gone that far down the dog obsession road just yet. But we are certainly planning to give her bonus scritches, a cheese tax hike, a super-long walk, a snazzy new collar and an extra-special treat.
If it were up to Piper, that extra-special treat would be a lifetime supply of freshly grilled salmon skin. But it’s not up to her, so we’re going to check out the goodies at Fetch Pet Supplies & Gifts instead (fetchpet417.com) . This shop on East Republic Road in Springfield carries loads of pet-care necessities—along with a cute little pastry-counterstyle display of dog-friendly cookies. They look like the charmingly decorated sugar cookies you’d find at any human bakery, but they are made with ingredients that are safe for your beloved four-legged family member. The darling designs change with the seasons, and we’ve seen every shape from animals and flowers to popsicles and hamburgers. KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
From e Field
September Calendar
September 2
What’s on the agenda this month? Cultural events, local love and the start of a new theater season.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
Let your dog take part in an end-of-summer tradition. No humans are allowed in the pool on this night—it’s just for the pups! As long as they have their required vaccinations, they can take a dip. Proceeds bene t Cruse Dog Park. $8 for a dog and their human, $3 each additional person; Fassnight Pool, 1305 S. Main Ave., Spring eld; parkboard.org/ dogswim
September 3
This country singer and songwriter has been nominated for a Best New Artist Grammy Award, a Male Artist of the Year ACM Award and an Outstanding New Artist NAACP Image Award. Here some of his hits, like “Best Shot” and “Make Me Want To.” $35–75; 7 p.m.; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 510 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
BY
PHOTO
PAIJE LUTH
DOG SWIM
JIMMIE ALLEN
Japanese Fall Festival, p. 25
EVERY BRILLIANT THING
September 4–6
High Tide Theatrical’s September performance of Every Brilliant Thing stars Sarah Jenkins. She plays a woman who has spent her life trying to help her mother through a battle with depression by cataloging all the beautiful things that make life worth living.
$20–100; 7:30 p.m. Thu.–Sat. and 2 p.m. Sat.; The Lightroom Lounge at Martha’s Vineyard, 215 W. Olive St., Spring eld; hightidesgf.org
THE DOOBIE BROTHERS
September 5
The Doobie Brothers (known since the 1970s for hits like “Listen to the Music” and “Takin’ It to the Streets”) are joined by The Coral Reefer Band at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. There are several seating options, from general admission lawn seats to premium experiences that include Table Rock Lake views and other cool perks.
Starts at $36; 7 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com
JAPANESE FALL FESTIVAL
September 5–7
This annual festival at the beautiful Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden celebrates Spring eld’s Sister Cities relationship with Isesaki, Japan, through entertainment like headliner Samurai Sword Soul, magician Yasu Ishida, large-scale Japanese calligraphy painting by Seiran Chiba, Japanese drumming by St. Louis Osuwa Taiko and lots more. Activities include a children’s area, a matcha tea café, workshops, wishing lanterns and more. Oh, and don’t forget to taste some of the great food too.
$9–14 adults, $4 kids; 5–10 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday; Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Spring eld; peacethroughpeople.org
DWIGHT YOAKUM
September 6
Dwight Yoakum is joined on stage by guests Ashley McBryde and Eli Young Band. Guests who purchase VIP tickets get access to special parking, bathrooms, bar and covered pavilion, as well as express entrance and a bu et dinner.
$67–207; 7 p.m.; Black Oak Amphitheater, 1728 State Highway H, Lampe; blackoakamp.com
KID’ATHLON
September 6
Get your kiddos’ hearts pumping at this annual triathlon designed just for them. They get to swim, cycle and run to the nish line. This event is for kids age 5 to 12.
8 a.m.; $35 rst child, $25 each additional child; Chester eld Park and Family Center, 2511 W. Republic Road, Spring eld; parkboard.org
BECAUSE YOU’RE MINE: THE MUSIC OF JUNE CARTER AND JOHNNY CASH
September 7
Singers Charles Evans Jr. and Caitie Grady Evans star as Johnny Cash and June Carter in this tribute that brings those legendary musicians to life on stage.
$35; 6 p.m.; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 510 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
A ROCKIN’ RIVERSIDE SYMPHONY
September 11
Enjoy live music in a beautiful setting as Monarch String Quartet performs classic rock tunes in Finley Farms open-air chapel located right beside the Finley River.
Concerts in the Wild is a new series at Dickerson Park Zoo. Each concert fea-
NOW OR NEVER
Cheers!
It might be called Oktoberfest, but it happens in September. Head out to these local beer-centric events at local breweries and town squares this month.
Oktoberfest
Where: Wire Road Brewing Co. (Battlefield)
When: September 27, 3–11 p.m.
Come For: German food, a costume contest, a stein-holding contest, lawn games, axe throwing and live music from The Dropouts.
Oktoberfest at 4 By 4
Where: 4 By 4 Brewing Co. (both Nixa and Springfield locations)
When: September 20, noon–10 p.m.
Come for: Tasty beer, German food, local cra and food vendors, games, contests and more.
Oktoberfest Beer Festival
Where: 14 Mill Market (Nixa)
When: September 27, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Come for: A Bavarian-style beer garden, German-inspired food, fall brews, live music, a stein-holding contest, a bratwurst-eating contest, keg-rolling races, feats of strength, a yodeling contest, a lederhosen fashion show and more.
Oktoberfest in the Ozarks
Where: Mother’s Brewing Co. (downtown Springfield)
When: September 20, 1–10 p.m.
Come For: Local beer on the Mother’s lawn, live music, tasty eats, and lots of lederhosen.
Sertoma Beerfest
Where: Ozark Square (Ozark)
When: September 13, noon–10 p.m.
Come for: Games, live music, great food and beer, cra ers’ booths and more.
tures a di erent musician, and proceeds bene t Friends of the Zoo and its work to support zoo projects and operations—including the conservation education department. This month’s concert features Spring eld-based jazz, classical and blue-
grass/folk performer Claire Herzog and her musical family. Tickets include entry into the zoo and the concert, including extended zoo hours for ticketholders.
$5–20; 6 p.m.; Dickerson Park Zoo; 1401 W. Norton Road, Spring eld; dickersonparkzoo.org
ANNIE
September 12–28
Spring eld Little Theatre’s 91st season starts this month with a performance of the beloved classic, Annie. Everyone’s favorite precocious, red-headed NYC orphan takes the stage with familiar songs like “It’s a Hard Knock Life.”
7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Landers Theater, 311 E. Walnut St., Spring eld; spring eldlittletheatre.org
THE FILHARMONIC
September 12
This ve-person group of FilipinoAmerican a capella singers performs hip hop, pop and R&B—and has some serious chops. They’ve been featured on The Sing-O and Pitch Perfect 2 and have performed with names like Shawn Mendes and John Legend.
$40; 7 p.m.; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 510 S. Nicholas, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
FOREIGNER
September 12
Foreigner is joined on stage by special guests Member’s Only. There are a few different VIP ticket options, some including perks like going backstage, seeing a Q&A with the artists.
$67–207; 7 p.m.; Black Oak Amphitheater, 1728 State Highway H, Lampe; blackoakamp.com
HARVEST FESTIVAL
September 12–October 26
Silver Dollar City comes alive with thousands of glowing pumpkins at this fall-
themed festival. Don’t miss the dance parties in The Plaza, great fall seasonal eats and live entertainment.
$82–92; Silver Dollar City, 399 Silver Dollar City Pkwy., Branson; silverdollarcity.com
LIGHT THE WAY CHRISTIAN MUSIC FESTIVAL
September 12–13
This festival features eight Christian music artists and groups over the course of two days and o ers an opening ceremony event on Friday afternoon. There are several seating options, from general admission lawn seats to premium experiences that include Table Rock Lake views and other cool perks.
Starts at $89; 4 p.m.; Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, 1901 State Highway 86, Ridgedale; thunderridgenaturearena.com
CATTLE BARON’S BALL
September 13
The them of this year’s local American Cancer Society fundraiser is Cowboy Disco. The event features live music by Jukebox Hero, Dallas Jones and The Zimmers, along with food from several local resaurants and lots of interactive activities like a mechanical bull and axe throwing. Guests can make a custom trucker hat before dancing the night away.
Ticket prices vary; 6–11 p.m.; Wilson Logistics Arena, Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant Ave., Spring eld; cattlebaronsballswmo.org
DON JUAN
September 13
Spring eld Symphony Orchestra opens its 2025–2026 season with a classical concert that features works that embody passion and romance. The group performs Richard Strauss’s “Don Juan,” Valery Coleman’s “Umoja: Anthem of Unity” and Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. 7:30 p.m.; Hammons Hall, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Spring eld; springeldmosymphony.org
DE NI SE KAY WRIGHT
Photo by Starboard & Port
From e Field Calendar
NEON NIGHT 5K
September 13
This evening race features an illuminated trail and tons of glowy neon. In fact, participants get glow gear along with a race tee, so they can help light up the night. Sign up for the timed 5K or the 1-mile fun run. This fundraising race bene ts NAMI Southwest Missouri.
$35 adults, $25 ages 5–12; Rutledge Wilson Farm Park, 3825 W. Farm Road 146, Spring eld; facebook.com/ NamiSwmo
MARK TWAIN TONIGHT!
September 17
This one-man show starring actor Richard Thomas features Mark Twain’s unique brand of humor and wit. Thomas is the only actor ever authorized to play Twain in this show besides its original writer and performer Hal Holbrook. 7 p.m.; Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Spring eld; hammonshall.com
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FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK SALE
September 17–21
Stock your bookshelf with fresh new-toyou reads at this huge, multi-day book sale. Saturday is half-price day, and Sunday is $1 and $5 bag day. Proceeds from the book sale bene t 10 Spring eld Greene County library branches.
10 a.m.–8 p.m. Wednesday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, 1–5 p.m. Sunday; E*Plex, Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant Ave., Spring eld
PRINCESS TEA PARTY
September 20
Kiddos at this event get to make a tiara, get their hair braided, listen to a princess story, get a manicure and more. There are tea party snacks on hand as well.
$20–35; 10 a.m.; Chester eld Park and Family Center; 2511 W. Republic Road, Spring eld; parkboard.org
RUNNING FROM SQUATCH
September 20
The theme of this even is, hilariously, running from Bigfoot—speci cally, from Brock the Sasquatch. Sasquatch-themed costumes are encouraged. The scenic and hilly course borders Fellows Lake for lovely views. event includes a half marathon, 10K, 5K, 1-mile fun run.
$30–85; 8 a.m.; Fellows Lake, 4200 E. Farm Road 66, Spring eld; register at runsignup.com
CHRIS D’ELIA STRAIGHT OUTTA THE MULTIVERSE TOUR
September 20
Come see comedian from Chris D’Elia, who is known for his stand-up comedy, his Congratulations podcast, his work on The Golden Hour and more.
$43.50–114; 7 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Spring eld; gillioztheatre.com
CHRIS FUNK: THE WONDERIST
September 21
Half magic show and half live music event, Chris Funk’s show features loads of illusions accompanied by violin, guitar and more instruments. He’s been featured on America’s Got Talent, Penn & Teller: Fool Us and more.
$30; 5 p.m; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 510 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
SPOOKY SPRINT
September 21
Enjoy a scenic race on the Frisco Highline Trail, all while dressed up in your favorite spooky Halloween duds. This race includes a 5K, a 10K, a half-marathon, a 1-mile fun run and a Kids Dash. There are even fun awards for the best Halloween costume. Even the DJ gets in on the fun playing spooky Halloween tunes.
$17–58; Frisco Highline Trail, 515 E. Jackson St., Willard; runsignup.com
We Love It!
Celebrate Spring eld is back this month with a theme Ozarks fans like us can really get behind.
For the past few years, the Hatch Foundation and many local partner businesses have used the Celebrate Springfield event to shine a light on local cultural events and activities that really drive home how great a place Springfield is to call home, and to help connect Springfield citizens with all the good stu . This year’s theme is Love Where You Live—a perfect fit for their mission!
It starts on September 7 with a free kick-o celebration at Hammons Field featuring food trucks and tons of fun activities for the whole family.
As the fall season goes on, Celebrate Springfield continues to connect folks with other excellent local events, like Japanese Fall Festival on September 6, Fellows Lake Fun Day on September 8, Culture Fest on October 11 and Ozark Cra Fair on October 4.
NIGHT OF CARING: SILVER SOIRÉE
September 26
It’s the 25th anniversary of The Doula Foundation’s annual Night of Caring fundraiser. This sparkling evening is packed with good food and drinks, live music and inspiring stories. All proceeds bene t local newborns, mothers and families in need through The Doula Foundation.
$100; 6:30–9 p.m.; Judy Thompson Executive Ballroom, Drury University, 900 N. Benton Ave., Spring eld; doulafoundation.org
RODNEY CARRINGTON: LIVE 2025
September 26
Both a comedian and a platinum recording artist, Rodney Carrington blends country music and stand-up comedy on stage at Hammons Hall.
7 p.m. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts, 525 S. John Q. Hammons Pkwy., Spring eld; hammonshall.com
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The 2025 Face of Paintless Dent Repair in 417 Magazine
From e Field Calendar
Check out Missouri State Univesity’s new and improved football stadium at a Bear’s home game this fall. See p. 33.
UPTOWN: A CELEBRATION OF MOTOWN & SOUL
September 26
This group of New York City natives features familiar R&B classics and more contemporary tunes—along with “Bruno Mars–caliber stage presence.” Come for great vocals and great choreography. $45; 7 p.m.; Aetos Center for the Performing Arts, 510 S. Nicholas Road, Nixa; aetoscenter.net
BÉLA FLECK, EDMAR
CASTAÑEDA, ANTONIO SANCHEZ TRIO
September 27
Béla Fleck has won 19 Grammy awards and is known for the bluegrass music he created with his band the Flecktones. Now he shares the stage with harpist Edmar Castañeda and drummer
Antonio Sanchez with a set of all new tunes.
$54–84; 7:30 p.m.; Gillioz Theatre, 325 Park Central East, Springfield; gillioztheatre.com
BREW
AT THE ZOO
September 27
This beer festival (among the wild animals!) features tasting mugs for sipping tasty brews, giraffe feed and petting zoo experiences, a local brews beer gardens and more. And if you just can’t bear to miss the game, the event includes TVs playing football this year.
$90 VIP, $50 general admission, $25 designated driver; 4 p.m. VIP hour, 5–8 p.m. general admission; Dickerson Park Zoo, 1401 W. Norton Road, Springfield; dickersonparkzoo.org
DOGFEST
September 27
Chesterfield Park fills with free activities for local dogs and their humans during this fun event. There are seminars and dog agility demonstrations, as well as a pup fashion show. Plus, you can shop vendors selling all sorts of dog-related goodies. Proceeds benefit Cruse Dog Park, Springfield’s local off-leash dog park.
9 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; Chesterfield Park, 2511 W. Republic Road, Springfield; parkboard.org
OZARKS BACON FEST
September 27
There are so many tasty beers, bourbons and bacon-centric foods made by local chefs. There’s even a bacon-eating content, if you’re feeling
brave (and hungry!). Also on the agenda: live music from Garrick Fausett. Guests must be 21 or older at this event.
$35–50; 11 a.m.–3 p.m. VIP, noon–3 p.m. general admission; E*Plex, Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, 3001 N. Grant Ave., Springfield
FALL MARKET
September 27
Stroll vendor booths to find loads of cool locally made products. Throughout the day, you can also enjoy food trucks, live music, kids activities and more.
$5 for adults, free for kids 12 and younger; 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Cassidy Station at Estes Farms; 5176 N. Fremont Road., Nixa; cassidystation. com
HOT FLASH HAPPY HOUR
October 30
Join 417 Magazine for an energizing evening where women gather to talk, laugh and learn about the change that changes everything—perimenopause, menopause and everything in between. Hear from a panel of local experts, see a real-talk Q&A and bring it all home with a hilarious female comedian. Tickets include drinks, heavy appetizers, swag and even some fun suprises.
$85; 5–8 p.m.; Hickory Hills Country Club, 3909 E. Cherry St., Springfield; 417mag.com/ hotflash
THE ROUTE 66 SERIES: 1926–2026
Through September History Museum on the Square is showcasing Route 66 and its upcoming 100th anniversary. This exhibit is ongoing through the month of September, so get there while you can! Plus, even if you happen to miss this exhibit, you can still have fun visiting the museum and learning about Springfield’s unique and storied history.
$10–16; museum hours
Wednesday–Saturday 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday 1 p.m.–5 p.m.; History Museum on the Square, 154 Park Central Square, Springfield; historymuseumonthesquare.org
MISSOURI STATE BEARS FOOTBALL
Ongoing
See the Missouri State Bears play at their newly improved stadium. This month’s home games have the Bears taking on the Southern Methodist
University Mustangs on September 13, the UT Martin Skyhawks on September 20 and the Western Kentucky University Hilltoppers on September 27. Find game times and ticket info at missouristatebears.com
Game times vary; Robert W. Plaster Stadium, Missouri State University, 1015 E. Grand St., Springfield; missouristatebears.com
SPRINGFIELD CARDINALS
Ongoing
This month, your Springfield Cardinals’ regular season home games at Hammons Field have them facing off against the San Antonio Missions on September 9–14. The Division Series Game 2 is in Springfield on September 18, plus an additional series game on September 19 if necessary. Get your tickets, so you can help the Springfield Cardinals round out their 2025 season.
Game times and ticket prices vary; Hammons Field, 955 E. Trafficway St., Springfield; springfieldcardinals.com
STAND-UP COMEDY
Ongoing
There are some great comedians on the lineup this month at Blue Room Comedy Club. Get tickets to see Katherine Blanford on September 5–6, Jourdain Fisher on September 7, Chris Redd on September 12–13, Joe Fenti on September 17 and Craig Conant on September 19–20.
Prices and showtimes vary; Blue Room Comedy Club, 420 W. College St., Springfield; blueroomcomedyclub.com
Festival Season Starts Now
September and October are jam packed with small town fall festivals, celebrating everything from bountiful apple harvests and local history. Here are a few happening in September.
Apple Festival
September 11–13, Seymour
Come for: a parade, apple-peeling contest, kids’ decorated bike contest, turtle races, and loads of apple-centric food and drink
Hootin’ and Hollarin’ Festival
September 18–20, Gainsville
Come for: the famous bed races and outhouse races, corn hole tournament, calling contests, terrapin races, square dancing and more
AppleFest
September 19–20, Marionville
Come for: apple dessert contest, a carnival, a parade, live music and more
Harvest Days
September 19–20, Marshfield
Come for: pumpkin chuckin’, food trucks, cra vendors, baking contest and more
Cider Days
September 20–21, Springfield
Come for: a street fest with apple cider, live music, artists’ booths and more.
Black Walnut Festival
September 25–27, Stockton
Come for: live music, carnival games, food, cra s, black walnut eats, a parade, a kids’ bike parade and more
Wilder Days
September 26–27, Mansfield
Come for: all things Laura Ingalls Wilder, including exploring the grounds of her family’s home and a tour of her “Little House”
Heritage Reunion
September 27–28, Fair Grove
Come for: live blacksmith and sawmill dmonstrations, the Wommack Mill, a parde, live music and more
TheLongWay
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
e Long Way
THE BEST GETAWAY IS an easy getaway. We’re talking about the kind that requires little planning and e ort but o ers maximum relaxation. Bentonville, that personality-packed Arkansas town just 2 hours south of Springeld, o ers a vacation vibe with a staycation level of ease—and fall is the perfect time to visit for special art exhibitions, excellent cycling weather and lots more.
Sparkle and Glow
Time Loop: A Forest Light Experience
It’s always a good idea to plan time to explore the grounds outside Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, where forest,
trails and art come together in the open air. Starting this month and running through early January, you have a bonus reason to go. The North Forest at Crystal Bridges becomes a glowing nighttime wonderland during the Time Loop by Klip Collective exhibition. As you wander the trails in the dark, you’ll get to view multiple installations that use “light, sound and state-ofthe-art projection mapping” to bring the landscape to glowy life. And of course, if you get to Crystal Bridges before nightfall, you can stroll the grounds during daylight and explore inside the museum. Be sure to plan ahead and book a tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright–designed house that is tucked away in the woods beside Crystal Bridges.
Eat Up
Conifer
Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico
When it’s time for a meal, head to one of the two Bentonville restaurants that had James Beard Award nods in 2025. Matthew Cooper of Conifer and Rafael Rios of Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico were both nalists in the Best Chef: South category.
At Conifer, you’ll nd a menu focused on entirely gluten-free farm-to-table cuisine, using ingredients from local farms presented beautifully for an upscale experience.
Yeyo’s El Alma de Mexico, on the other hand, o ers avors from numerous regions of Mexico and recipes that had been passed down from Rios’s mother and grandmother.
BY JOHNNY PEREZ
PHOTO
Hit the Trail
Slaughter Pen
You can’t visit Bentonville without exploring the city’s vast and interconnected trail systems. Whether you want to wheel around the city or zip downhill on a mountain bike, there is a trail for you. We recommend starting your adventure at Slaughter Pen. It’s popular for a reason: It’s located in town (no trekking needed), and there are trails for multiple skill levels, including mountain biking beginners.
Make It Easy
E-Bike Bentonville
OZ E-Bike Rentals & Tours
If you want to glide along with ease, consider renting an e-bike. E-Bike Bentonville o ers both street and mountain options, and they’ll deliver the bike to wherever you’re staying. OZ E-Bike Rentals & Tours o ers both types of bikes as well, and they o er guided tour options if you prefer to hit the trails with a pro.
“Bentonville
offers a vacation vibe with a staycation level of ease—and fall is the perfect time to visit the town for special art exhibitions and excellent cycling weather.”
Stop for Sips
Loveless Cocktail Club
Scotch & Soda
Callisto
For a fun 417-land connection, visit Loveless Cocktail Club, owned by the crew from Spring eld-based Good Spirits & Co. At Loveless Cocktail Club, the menu is a mix of sophisticated cocktails and funky hot
dogs (a banh mi hot dog? yes, please!), and you can even nd some zero-proof drinks that don’t skimp on creative ingredients. And Spring eldians might also enjoy a trip down memory lane to Good Spirits & Co’s Bentonville whiskey bar Scotch & Soda that used to have a location in the Queen City. After sampling the cocktails at Loveless, hop over to Callisto, a speakeasy-style spot that o ers super-chic tiki bar vibes and an impressive food menu.
Rest for the Night Motto
Just under a year old, Motto is still buzzy. Although it’s a Hilton property, it has the feeling of a boutique hotel, with stylishly designed spaces that evoke the artsy personality of Bentonville. As for food and drink, you can grab dinner at Junto Sushi or a drink at the beautiful Junto Bar. The hotel also o ers bike storage, so you have a place to keep your wheels when you aren’t exploring the trails.
While in Bentonville head to Loveless (far left), Crystal Bridges trails (left), Motto (top) and Scotch & Soda (bottom).
e Long Way
Last Call for the Lake
For a less crowded lake experience while warm weather lingers, plan a September weekend at Table Rock Lake’s Baxter Campground and nearby marina near Lampe. Not only will you nd enough day-trip things to do, but Baxter also makes a nice weekend getaway.
BY SONY HOCKLANDER
Go for a Day
Pack beach chairs, a picnic lunch, oaties and water toys for a warm September break from work or school. The drive from Spring eld to Baxter takes about an hour and 20 minutes, so leave early.
If your day is focused around beach play, plan your outing for the rst half of September before
the campground and day use areas close to cars September 15. (Day use costs $5 per vehicle.)
Tip: After September 15, you can park near the boat ramp and walk over to the beach.
two- or three-person
For swimming and relaxing, hang out at the gravel beach, which includes a roped-o section of the lake to keep oaters and swimmers from ven-
BY
PHOTO
SONY HOCKLANDER
GREEN SPACES
Rent
kayaks from Baxter Arena on Table Rock Lake.
turing too far. Covered picnic tables line the edge of the beach for snacks or lunch.
If you have kayaks, bring them too! We’ve launched from the beach to paddle the shoreline, which revealed interesting chunky blu s and rock formations along the water’s edge. Anglers might enjoy casting for crappie, cat sh, bluegill or bass.
Or rent two- to three-person kayaks for $65 per day from the full-service Baxter Marina, operating through mid-October.
For a more adventurous daytime lake outing, the marina also rents motorized vessels, ranging $545 to $745 for a full day with a pontoon or shing barge.
Need supplies? The marina store sells ice, snacks, soft drinks, beer, apparel and tackle.
Go for a Weekend
In addition to playing at the beach or renting a boat, Baxter makes a nice overnight basecamp for outings, too.
Reserve a Baxter campsite for tents or RVs at recreation.gov through September 14. Or for a group, book a nearby luxury rental including Tomahawk, Antelope and Deer Ridge lodges. Indian Creek Inn (indiancreekinn.com), a simple but well-located lakefront resort with a pool and onsite boat dock, o ers a more budget option nearby.
No matter where you stay, Baxter is well-located to plan one lake day and one day outing. A few entertaining locations to reach in less than an hour include:
• Roaring River State Park for hiking or shing (50 minutes)
• Eureka Springs, Arkansas, for dining, shopping and exploring (50 minutes)
• Branson Landing for dining and shopping (45 minutes)
• Silver Dollar City for rides and entertainment (35 minutes)
• Table Rock State Park, White River Valley Trails and Dewey Short Visitor Center for walking, hikes, biking and education (45 minutes)
No matter what you plan for September’s last lake hurrah, it will help usher in the crisp fall weather coming in October.
e Long Way
Northern Exposure
EXPLORE LAKESHORE, MOUNTAINS AND WATERFALLS ALONG MINNESOTA’S NORTH SHORE SCENIC BYWAY ON LAKE SUPERIOR. IT’S A DRIVEABLE TRIP THAT FEELS A WORLD AWAY.
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY SONY HOCKLANDER
RoCK-STREWN BEACHES, SOARING BLUFFS, QUAINT towns, historic lighthouses and scenic points of interest dot the coast of Lake Superior—all reason enough to explore Minnesota’s North Shore between Deluth and Canada.
Most enticing are streams and rivers that cascade toward the shore, creating 17 named waterfalls and many
more along the 151-mile North Shore Scenic Drive, also known as Scenic 61 Highway. Eight state parks around the most prominent streams make them easy to reach.
Last fall, we camped at Black Beach in the Silver Bay area and took day trips from there. It was a fantastic time to visit for waterfall chasing paired with leaf peeping. Perhaps these highlights will inspire your road trip to one of our new favorite regions.
Two Harbors, Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse
The town of Two Harbors, at Mile 26 of Scenic 61, is the gateway to some of North Shore’s most visited points of interest. It’s also home to the state’s oldest operating lighthouse, circa 1892. Nearby, walk the trail in Agate Bay and a long dock to the 1895 breakwater lighthouse. We found Castle Danger Brewery a refreshing stop for a craft beer and food truck fare. And no visit is complete without pastry from the famous Betty’s Pies.
About 13 miles northeast, Gooseberry Falls State Park (Mile 39.5) is most tourists’ go-to if you only have a day. Here, massive waterfalls tumbling over basalt rock formed by lava more than a billion years ago are reached via easy, connected trails to four main areas: Upper Falls, Middle Falls, Lower East and Lower West falls. From the Upper Falls, a more rugged trail goes upstream to Fifth Falls. Round out your visit with a stop at Agate Beach and Picnic Flow, a picnic area where the lava created a pockmarked landscape.
Four miles farther, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park makes a great introduction to the rocky Lake Superior shoreline. We followed several intersecting trails to small coves, Ellingsen Island, Conundrum Point and of course, views of the lighthouse perched on a high blu —one of the most photographed spots in Minnesota. It’s worth paying a fee to explore the lighthouse complex.
Tettegouche, Silver Bay and More
We only touched on things to do in the 9,300-acre Tettegouche State Park. In addition to its visitor center at Mile 57, Tettegouche includes six inland lakes, four sets of waterfalls and terrain of the Sawtooth Mountains. The park has notable overlooks including Shovel Point; we especially liked Palisade Head, soaring at 300 feet above the lake with a breathtaking vista.
For an easy adventure, walk from the visitor center to get a bridge-eye view of the Baptism River entering Lake Superior. Flooding had closed some park trails, but we hiked to the top of 63-foot High Falls for
Two Harbors is home to Betty’s Pies and Gooseberry Falls State Park.
e Long Way
a river overlook. Later, we drove up Highway 1 to hike a short trail to the 40-foot Illgen Falls, yet another gorgeous spot located on the Baptism.
Nearby at Mile 51, Beaver Falls is one of several waterfalls you can see right o the highway. Don’t miss Black Beach (Mile 54), a great picnic stop on Silver Bay for its unique charcoal-colored crushed rock shore. Black Beach has two main sections divided by rocky outcrops. The farthest attracts most tourists, but I liked the beach closest to our campground for views of the sunrise with my morning co ee.
Temperance River, Cascade River and Adventures Between
Plan at least two days for adventures in the North Shore’s middle section. One picturesque waterfall adventure to Caribou Falls (Mile 70) doesn’t take long. After half a mile hiking the easy trail, which includes pretty
views of cascades over pinkish rocks, walk down to the base of the 40-foot waterfall.
At Temperence River State Park (Mile 80), follow a short trail downstream from Scenic 61 to marvel as the river tumbles through a rocky gorge into a small lagoon and the lake. A couple of footbridges provide nice viewpoints.
Upstream, hikers can follow the rugged Temperence River Falls Loop Trail for nearly three miles up and back along the rocky river gorge.
We enjoyed half a day in the Sawtooth Mountains by riding the Summit Express Gondola (Mile 90.5), which soars 1,000 feet above Lake Superior for an amazing view from the Summit Chalet where we sipped brews in the warm afternoon sun.
Short hikes from the top revealed slopes exploding with fall color, including orange and red maples mixed with yellow-leafed birch and poplar trees closer to the lake.
A favorite experience was hiking a onemile trail at Cascade River State Park (Mile 99.8). The trail leads into the forest to the rst beautiful waterfall, then continues uphill with boardwalk steps, bridges and natural surfaces to reveal more cascades in a wooded setting. Returning, we saw dozens of brook trout near the river’s mouth—and anglers trying to catch them!
Grand Marais to Grand Portage
The most northeastern third of Scenic 61 starts around Mile 109 with Grand Marais, a charming village with local shops, restaurants and galleries amid scenic sights. We didn’t mind waiting for a table at the popular Angry Trout Cafe while relaxing outside with a cold drink and gorgeous harbor views. Don’t miss Artist’s Point, an inspiring rock peninsula near a cobblestone beach. From Artist’s Point, walk the breakwater trail to the lighthouse at its tip.
Black Beach has a unique charcoal-colored shore and is a great picnic stop.
It’s worth the drive to Grand Portage State Park (Mile 151), where High Falls plunges over a blu to the Pigeon River. At 120 feet, it’s the state’s tallest waterfall, although it straddles the border with Canada. To see it, follow a paved path to three nice viewing platforms. We also took a side trail to the Pigeon River where Canada was yards away.
The park’s Middle Falls roars over a 20-foot drop in the riverbed. It takes a 4.5-mile rugged hike to reach on the U.S. side but hardly a hike from Canada. So we crossed the border, turned left onto Highway 593 and stopped where a short path leads to a heartstopping view of the top.
From the base we could see hikers across the river.
Heading back, we stopped at Judge C.R. Magney State Park (Mile 124) for
a hike to Devil’s Kettle Falls, the North Shore’s most mysterious waterfall. The twomile out-and-back trail climbs up and down roughly 175 steps with a 400-foot elevation change along the Brule River. At the end, hikers are rewarded with two waterfalls.
Devil’s Kettle Falls splits around rocks to form a double stream, one of which vanishes into a rocky hole (the “kettle”). But where does it go from there? After puzzling visitors for years, the mystery was solved about seven years ago when scientists proved it simply rejoins the stream.
While we didn’t see everything we’d like to in a week, I know we’ll go back to the
Plan your trip
North Shore begins in Deluth, 750 miles north of Springfield (about 12 hours away by car).
Visitors need a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit ($7/day or $35/ year) to visit state parks.
Accommodations vary. There are numerous private or state park campgrounds. Resorts, cabins and hotels can be found around each community, or you can look for a rental property along the shore or up in the mountains. Learn more about the area at northshorevisitor.com.
North Shore: This vacation spot is too gorgeous to visit only once.
Brule River (above) and Split Rock State Park (left) are muststops on your trip.
EXPLORE
LET’S GO
Make a trek to see Crystal Spring, the natural spring located on the Crystal Bridges trails and grounds.
Find the perfect spot for a fun- lled day trip or a weekend getaway. It’s the perfect time of year to get out there and explore. From scenic views and outdoor thrills to captivating history and hometown charm, experience everything Missouri, Illinois, Tennessee and Arkansas have to o er.
BIG CYPRESS LODGE
800-223-3333
BIG-CYPRESS.COM
Tucked inside one of Memphis’ most iconic landmarks, Big Cypress Lodge o ers a one-of-a-kind getaway that blends outdoor adventure with rustic elegance. Nestled within the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, this unexpected retreat o ers more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience unlike any other in one of America’s most historic cities.
EXPERIENCE RUSTIC LUXURY INSIDE THE ICONIC MEMPHIS PYRAMID
Step inside and become immersed in a nature lover’s paradise. The towering cypress trees and a lively swamp with the gentle sounds of waterfalls will welcome you the moment you arrive. Above it all is Big Cypress Lodge, your place for exploration, relaxation and everything in between.
UNFORGETTABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family adventure or a solo escape, Big Cypress Lodge o ers an array of accommodations to suit your style. Choose from interior rooms with private balconies that overlook the cypress swamp and the hustle and bustle of the Bass Pro Shops below, giving you a front-row seat to one of the most unique views in the country.
The Treehouse Rooms o er elevated luxury, inspired by the childhood wonder of a tree fort, but upgraded with king beds, jetted tubs and handcrafted wood nishes. For those seeking the ultimate in space and sophistication, the Governor’s Suite delivers with vaulted ceilings, a replace and an expansive layout t for royalty.
Then there’s the Duck Cabin, a hidden gem within the Pyramid, reminiscent of a bygone era. With its rich wood details and cozy, lodge-style design, it feels like a hidden retreat with all the comforts of a luxury hotel.
Prefer to be close to the action outside? Exterior rooms with private patios overlook the Mississippi River and the sparkling lights of downtown Memphis, giving you the best of both worlds: urban energy and riverside calm.
ADVENTURE AWAITS AROUND EVERY CORNER
Staying at Big Cypress Lodge means you’re never far from your next adventure. Head down to The Fishbowl, an underwater-themed bowling alley unlike anything you’ve ever seen. With glowing lanes and ocean-inspired decor, it’s a fun, family-friendly activity that’s sure to make a splash.
Then there’s Sky High Ride, the country’s tallest freestanding elevator, soaring 28 stories through the heart of
the Pyramid. At the top, you’ll nd The Lookout, a stunning restaurant and bar with a glass observation deck o ering panoramic views of the Mississippi River, downtown Memphis and beyond. Time your visit with sunset and you’ll witness the city bathed in golden hues, with the Mighty Lights on the Hernando De Soto Bridge adding a little nighttime magic.
A PYRAMID WITH A PAST
Before it became home to Bass Pro Shops and Big Cypress Lodge, the Memphis Pyramid was known as a premier venue for sports and entertainment. It hosted basketball games, boxing matches and legendary concerts. That rich history lives on inside the Pyramid’s walls with the History of the Pyramid Museum, showcasing memorabilia from all the great performances.
Today, it’s a place where families come to make memories, couples come to reconnect, and travelers come to experience something truly original.
LET’S GO TO MEMPHIS
Whether you’re here for the view, the food, the fun or the feeling of being wrapped in rustic comfort, Big Cypress Lodge invites you to experience Memphis in a way you never imagined. It’s more than a hotel, it’s a destination all its own.
If you’ve ever said, “Let’s go to Memphis,” now’s the time. Plan your
Big Cypress Lodge blends outdoorsy charm with upscale comfort in the heart of Memphis.
next stay today at Big Cypress Lodge. Visit big-cypress.com to learn more!
BRANSON LANDING
417-239-3002
BRANSONLANDING.COM
Experience Branson this fall. Shop, dine and unwind at Branson Landing, home to anchor favorites like Bass Pro Shops and Belk, along with 17 restaurants and over 80 shops and attractions. Stroll the scenic 1.5mile boardwalk along Lake Taneycomo to enjoy crisp fall air and beautiful views. Visit bransonlanding.com for a full list of shops, events and seasonal happenings.
NEW THINGS TO TRY
Enjoy exciting new additions: Lindwedel Winery and Iris Galerie! Make your visit even more magical during Winter WonderLanding, where the holiday spirit shines with a dazzling 63-foot animated Christmas tree, festive lights and surprises around every corner. Don’t miss the unforgettable fountain shows, featuring 120-foot water geysers, re cannons, music and synchronized lights.
Enhance your visit by booking one of the holiday-themed rooms at the Hiltons of Branson, perfect for creating cherished seasonal memories.
FIND YOUR FAIRWAY
Just minutes away, Branson Hills Golf Club o ers breathtaking fall foliage and championship golf. Book your tee time at bransonhillsgolfclub.com, and enjoy a delicious meal at Magnolia Grille before or after your round.
SAVOR IT ALL
Indulge in seasonal avors at Level 2 Steakhouse, located at the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel. Their new fall menu and handcrafted cocktails are not to be missed—especially the signature pumpkin desserts!
COME SEE THE MAGIC
Celebrate the season with festive shopping, stunning views, delicious dining and magical holiday moments—experience Branson. Visit experience-branson.com.
BUFFALO RIVER OUTFITTERS BUFFALORIVEROUTFITTERS.COM
Autumn adventures await at Bu alo River Out tters. Looking for a fall escape that blends big adventure with cozy comforts? Head to Bu alo River Out tters, where crisp mornings, colorful foliage and peaceful cabin nights set the tone for an unforgettable Ozarks getaway.
UNWIND BENEATH THE OZARKS STARS
Located in the Tyler Bend area of the Bu alo National River, this trusted out tter makes it easy to enjoy the best of the season. Their log cabins come fully equipped with everything you need to relax after a day of exploring, like stone replaces, full kitchens, wide porches and soft beds. Evenings are for stargazing, grilling out and soaking in the quiet.
WANDER WHERE THE ELK ARE
During the day, step outside your door and explore miles of scenic trails, com-
plete with jaw-dropping views, vibrant fall colors and the chance to spot Arkansas’ only elk herd.
COME VISIT AND SEE
With more than 30 years of experience and a reputation for friendly, knowledgeable service, Bu alo River Out tters takes the guesswork out of planning and adds a whole lot of fun. This is fall in the Ozarks at its absolute best.
CITY OF HERMANN VISITHERMANN.COM
Hermann, Missouri, is cultivated for the curious traveler. Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, Hermann, o ers timeless charm, rich history and breathtaking scenery. Known as the heart of Missouri Wine Country, Hermann invites visitors to step into a world where rolling vineyards, historic architecture
and warm hospitality create an unforgettable experience.
EMBRACE THE HISTORY
Founded in 1837 by German settlers, Hermann has beautifully preserved its old-world roots. Stroll through the quaint downtown, where 19th-century brick buildings house boutique shops, antique stores and cozy guest accommodations. History lovers can explore the Deutschheim State Historic Site and Historic Hermann Museum, o ering a glimpse into the lives of early German immigrants.
FESTIVALS
Hermann is known for its lively festivals celebrating German heritage, wine culture and community spirit. Wurstfest kicks o spring and highlights the town’s love for sausage. Maifest includes a parade, street vendors, music and dancing, while Oktoberfest draws crowds for local wines and beers, German food and live entertainment. Christmas time in Historic
Hermann features festive markets, concerts, house tours and wine trails. Each event o ers a warm, welcoming and unforgettable experience.
OUTDOORS
For outdoor enthusiasts, Hermann o ers hiking trails, riverfront parks, RV & and tent camping and easy access to the Katy Trail, perfect for biking or leisurely walks. Foodies will delight in local dining spots serving hearty German-American fare, farm-to-table cuisine and handcrafted brews and spirits from local breweries and distilleries.
COME VISIT AND SEE
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a tasting experience or a downtown shopping day, Hermann o ers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Be it raising a glass on a sunlit patio or exploring the town’s storied past, it’s the ideal destination to unwind and savor life’s simple pleasures.
Plan your visit today and experience the heart and soul of Missouri Wine Country. Cheers to Hermann—where every moment is worth savoring!
CLAY COUNTY
816-407-3600
VISITCLAYMO.COM
Looking for the next hidden gem to explore? Clay County knows just the place! While their neighbors in KC have won the hearts and recognition of many across the nation, Clay County invites travelers to journey just a bit north. Its borders run from the north side of the Missouri River in Kansas City up to spectacular Smithville Lake and east through Holt, Lawson and Excelsior Springs. They o er everything from small-town charm in their beloved cities and townships to the thrills of Worlds of Fun or the winner’s circle at Harrah’s Casino.
A DAY OUT ON THE TOWN
Picture a day at Paradise Point Golf Course, enjoying breezy water’s edge views while hitting the links, followed by a one-of-a-kind meal at the famed Stroud’s restaurant. Then, cap o the night in North Kansas City at Chicken N Pickle or one of the many breweries within a short stroll of each other. Don’t miss The Rabbit hOle, the rst museum of its kind in the United States, featuring a three-story immersive experience that brings a century of American children’s literature to life.
Travelers can nd their way to Clay County, Missouri—their weekend getaway awaits! Paid for in partnership with Visit Missouri.
CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART
479-418-5700
CRYSTALBRIDGES.COM
600 MUSEUM WAY, BENTONVILLE
FIND CONNECTION HERE
Golden leaves, outdoor adventures, and colorful exhibitions: the vibrant fall season is an ideal time to make a trip with friends and family to Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Located just o I-49 in the Ozark Mountains, fall at Crystal Bridges brings widespread foliage, with peak bold colors arriving in early November. Earlier in the season, Time Loop by Klip Collective: A Forest Light Experience brings light, sound, and sensory wonder to your evening starting September 3.
Inside the museum, you won’t want to miss exploring the new Foundations of American Art Gallery, the rst fully reimagined gallery in our ongoing expansion. See how American art took shape in a newly reimagined gallery built for curiosity, discovery, and play.
After a halftime break at our restaurant Eleven, bring your team spirit to our latest exhibition, Get in the Game: Sports, Art, Culture, opening September 13. Experience how today’s artists and designers respond to the drive, passion, culture, and systems surrounding games—and who gets to play them. Whether you spend your time walking the trails, exploring interactive gallery displays, or playing in Get in the Game, you’re sure to make lasting memories here.
General admission is always free; plan your fall visit today.
EUREKA SPRINGS
479-253-7333
VISITEUREKASPRINGS.COM
The soul of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is rooted in something distinctly personal, which it o ers to every visitor without question or criteria: freedom. It is a unique destination with a warm, openarmed welcome to all walks of life. That warmth is exhibited everywhere, from drum circles at Basin Park to friendly
chatter over pours at a craft brewery to the characters met on a walk down the street. It poses the question that each traveler will come to answer for themselves: What are you free to be?
FIND WHAT MOVES YOU
The outdoor adventurer is free to hike to the hilltops to take in the breathtaking view, feel the adrenaline rush on a zipline ride or kayak the day away on the calm waters of the lakefront. The culture seeker is free to immerse themselves in street parades and colorful galleries, dine on fresh ingredients and local favorites or enjoy the live music that seems to pour through the brick-lined streets of Historic Downtown constantly. The bold who seek a unique getaway are free to explore options they won’t nd elsewhere, from antique train rides to the most spirited of haunted hotels and more. Nightlife often echoes the beat of the day with live performances that won’t be soon forgotten. The spiritual will be greeted by the steady gaze of the seven-story Christ of the Ozarks, and the collectors will nd shops full of treats and treasures to take home with them.
Fall at Crystal Bridges brings cool weather and vibrant colors, making it the perfect time for a stroll.
FIND YOUR NICHE HERE
In truth, the city rises to meet the individual visitor, a ording them every opportunity to indulge in their niche freely. From opera lovers to motorcycle enthusiasts to foodies and beyond, there is an open, winding street waiting for them. It’s a tailored experience unlike any other in a destination unlike any other. In Eureka Springs, you’re free to be.
GREAT RIVERS & ROUTES
RIVERSANDROUTES.COM
There’s only one place in America where the Mother Road of Route 66 meets the Great River Road, and that’s in the Great Rivers & Routes region of southwest Illinois.
ADVENTURE TALL AS THE TALES
This is a land full of outdoor adventures, including kayaking along the mighty
Mississippi River, ying down soaring limestone river blu s on Illinois’ only Alpine Coaster, hiking along the hundreds of miles of scenic hiking trails and uncovering the state’s largest park— Pere Marquette.
It’s a place where giants of all kinds live, including a massive pink berglass elephant, the world’s tallest man Robert Wadlow, jazz great Miles Davis and iconic mu er men statues towering over Route 66.
WHERE ROUTE 66 STILL SHINES
Explore the last 100 miles of Route 66 and its classic Post Card Mural Trail and mighty Monument Trail. See the new Neon Sign Park in Granite City—home to the ghost neons that once lit up the skies in this town located just outside St. Louis. Take in an outdoor movie at the Skyview Drive-In, make a pit stop at the revitalized West End Service Station and walk across the Mississippi River on the iconic Chain of Rocks Bridge.
Discover the Great Rivers & Routes region of southwest Illinois. Learn more at RiversandRoutes.com
JEFFERSON CITY
573-632-2820
VISITJEFFERSONCITY.COM
Je erson City has many gems to o er outdoor enthusiasts, history bu s and thrill-seekers in the heart of Missouri. For a breath of fresh air, break out the bike and pedal the Katy Trail, the longest developed rail trail in the country. If the former railroad is too much of a commitment, stroll the trails at Runge Nature Center or the Bicentennial Bridge to Adrian’s Island leading to the 32-acre riverfront Deborah Cooper Park.
TOUR THE CITY
Admire the pristine architecture of the Missouri State Capitol, the Governor’s
Mansion and the downtown skyline. Visitors can wander the historic halls of the Capitol or join a guide-led tour to learn about the stunning structure. At the Mansion, docents guide you through the rst level of one of few executive residences open to the public. Be sure to contact sta in advance as reservations are required for both tours.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN HISTORY
Afterward, immerse yourself in intriguing exhibits at the Missouri State Museum and the Museum of Missouri Military History. Book a history or ghost tour at the decommissioned Missouri State Penitentiary and visit the museum to learn of its 168 years of operation. The former prison has been featured on many television shows throughout the years, most recently including Destination Fear, Ghost Hunters, Mysteries of the Abandoned and Portals to Hell.
SATISFY YOUR HUNGER
Refuel at one of Je erson City’s original staple eateries like Prison Brews, The Grand Café or Sweet Smoke BBQ. To end your day in the capital city and satisfy your sweet tooth, indulge in Central Dairy ice cream. Make the drive and feel the history in Je erson City. Plan your trip at VisitJe ersonCity.com.
SIKESTON TOURISM
888-309-6591
SIKESTON.NET/TOURISM
Visit Sikeston, Missouri, and explore its historic downtown district with numerous shops, antiques, beautiful parks and restaurants. Sikeston is home to a worldclass rodeo, famous restaurants and oneof-a-kind attractions.
HOME OF ROLLS AND RODEO
When you visit, make sure to check out the renowned Lambert’s Café, home of the throwed rolls, and the newly established Sikeston Rodeo Museum.
SOMETHING FOR THE HOLIDAYS
No visit in the fall is complete without a trip to the Yule Log Cabin, featuring 185 decorated Christmas trees, and Beggs Family Farm—a kid’s pumpkin paradise, from cool farm machinery made into rides to live animals, a corn maze and wagon rides. Sikeston’s fall events include the Downtown Wine Festival, Cotton Carnival and the annual Oktoberfest featuring German foods and live music.
STAY FOR AWHILE
Sikeston has numerous hotel choices for a comfortable weekend getaway. Contact its tourism o ce at 888-309-6591 or go to sikeston.net/tourism to plan your trip.
ST. CHARLES
636-946-7776
DISCOVERSTCHARLES.COM
As the summer heat gives way to the cooling winds of autumn, St. Charles, Missouri, transforms into a haven of fall colors and holiday events. Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River, this charming historic city invites visitors to celebrate the season’s splendor with memorable experiences.
RIVERSIDE STROLLS & HISTORIC CHARM
What once was the nal stop for explorers to gather supplies before heading out west is now a brick-lined Main Street full of unique shops, boutiques and restaurants. Visitors are invited to “Hit the Bricks” to learn more about the legendary characters that made St. Charles what it is today.
OUTDOOR COLOR AND BITES
Discover all the colors that autumn has to offer as you explore Frontier Park. Sandwiched between the Missouri River and the Katy Trail, Frontier Park is a picturesque setting for family picnics or romantic dates. Enjoy the views from Main Street restaurants with patios that overlook the park, perfect for visitors to enjoy local eats and beautiful days.
INDOOR ADVENTURES
If you’re a truly adventurous spirit, head over to Climb So iLL to tie into the ropes or hop on some boulders; there’s a climbing terrain for every age and ability. If you’re interested in a more passive activity, stop by the Foundry Art Centre and explore their worldclass galleries or visit with a resident artist.
FESTIVALS AND FUN
St. Charles’ event calendar is full, but truly comes alive in the autumn and winter. Don’t miss signature festivals like Saint Charles Oktoberfest, the 10th anniversary of Legends & Lanterns® and Saint Charles Christmas Traditions®. These celebrations promise memorable experiences for kids of all ages.
SIP AND SAVOR
Indulge in Missouri wines with a trip out to Historic Missouri Wine Country. Visitors will delight their palates with award-winning wines while taking in the Instagram-worthy rolling hills of the Femme Osage Valley.
This is a perfect way to unwind and savor the avors of the season.
Autumn in St. Charles is the perfect time to discover the history, beauty and excitement that this charming city has to o er.
WARRENSBURG
660-262-4611
VISITWARRENSBURG.COM
A change of scenery can yield one memorable moment after another. Mother Nature does her part, adorning the landscape with a palette of breathtaking colors. Painting a masterpiece like this is hard work, so shouldn’t it be enjoyed? An overnight trip to Warrensburg, Missouri, can reintroduce visitors to nature’s splendor.
STREET FESTS TO FARM FRESH
Spend two days at Burg Fest from October 10–11. This annual community street fair features a remarkable lineup of family-friendly activities for all ages to enjoy crisp autumn days.
Then, savor the freshest avors or give any home a splash of color from Buckeye Acres Produce, a family-run farm providing seasonal produce in addition to the annual Harvest Festival, featuring a pumpkin patch, family-friendly activities and home décor. Sample favorites like their apple cider donuts and slushies from their on-farm market!
FOOTBALL SEASON IS HERE
Cheer on the University of Central Missouri football team, stroll through
the expansive Powell Gardens or play a round or two at the spectacular and challenging Mules National Golf Course. A new adventure is waiting to be experienced against the backdrop of nature’s bright canvas in Warrensburg.
COME VISIT AND SEE
See how a simple getaway can yield a cornucopia of memories hand-picked just for visitors in Warrensburg. Learn more about the remarkable experiences awaiting and plan a trip today.
Bright pumpkins, bold colors and sweet memories in Warrensburg.
A Home Floral
At Home Studio
Flowers, created a home oral studio that
is as pretty as it is functional.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATY ST. CLAIR
At Home
WHEN CHARITY
Bennitt’shusband asked her what she really wanted to do, she answered, “I want to focus on wedding oral design and I want to do it all out of my home.” That was 2011; the next year Bennitt did seven events right out of her home. Then three years later the couple moved into a larger home in Blue Bird Hills in Nixa, and Bennitt laid eyes on what would be her future home oral studio and o ce. “When we saw the o ce area it was an un nished basement with
open studs, concrete walls and a corky footprint,” says Bennitt. With help from Cabinet Concepts by Design (4123 N State Hwy H, Spring eld, 417-725-3400), the dark space was reimagined with a custom quartz-top desk and custom built-ins. Bennitt also added custom French doors and a glass window that looks out to what is now Bennitt’s home oral studio, which helps bring in natural light.
A few years later Bennitt took on remodeling her home oral studio. The space was dark, with a tiny sink. “The countertops were dark so I could not see supplies like oral pins on them,” says Bennitt. “I also
Charity Bennitt runs He Loves Me Flowers out of her beautiful home studio.
“I want to focus on wedding floral design and I want to do it all out of my home.”
wanted the studio to match what I did in my o ce.” Bennitt chose white cabinets that went to the ceiling for more storage space, white subway tile and a huge farmhouse sink. “Now I can put actual buckets in my sink,” says Bennitt.
Marble countertops were chosen, and because Bennitt doesn’t cook in the space, keeping them pristine was a safe bet.
“When I saw the marble I thought it was stunning,” she says. “The marble sparkles and shines. It makes me so happy.”
Bennitt’s home oral studio is now the backdrop for all her colorful oral creations and also works as a great photography backdrop. “White really works best when photographing owers,” she says. Since the remodel the couple also built a custom walk-in ower refrigerator, all in an e ort to make everything function better for her business. But it’s not all business all the time. Bennitt also likes to gather owers like hydrangeas and lavender from her yard and put them in one of her favorite vases. “I have a cabinet in the oral studio where I have all my vases on display,” says Bennitt. “Even if you’re just a hobby orist, creating a cute little shelf with your favorite vases and vessels is always nice.”
She also recommends creating an organizer with oral clippers, ower tape and other oral supplies to help encourage easy and enjoyable oral arranging at home.
“It’s such a simple way to bring joy to our everyday lives,” says Bennitt.
WEEK TANNING & WELLNESS SPA
SEPTEMBER 22–29
Along
At Home
Good for the Soul
AFTER LOSING HIS SISTER, LUKE ELFRINK EMBARKED ON A YEAR-LONG REMODEL TO HONOR HER, BEGIN TO HEAL AND CREATE HIS DREAM HOME.
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
LUKE ELFRINK WAS inColorado for work when he rst toured his 1960s midcentury home through Facetime. “I fell in love with it over the phone,” says Elfrink. The house was based on a Frank Lloyd Wright plan and sits behind the old Bell Restaurant and Hotel in Lebanon on Route 66.
Elfrink purchased the home last September and had big plans to update it—all while keeping the integrity of the 1960s, when the home was built. At the time, Efrink was also
dealing with profound grief from losing his older sister Micah in a tragic car accident.
“If it wasn’t for my sister I wouldn’t have been able to purchase this house,” says Elfrink. It was his sister, his biggest supporter, who left him the funds to be able to follow his dream of remodeling a home in the Lebanon area to be close to his family and friends. Elfrink knew he had to make his sister proud, so he embarked on a year-long renovation, tackling many of the projects himself.
“It was important to me to choose authentic colors, angles and materials so that everything I put back into the house honored the
Elfrink collects pieces that remind him of his sister, but also tries to include pieces that honor the home’s original design.
original vibe and character of the 1960s, something that felt true to a Frank Lloyd Wright design,” says Elfrink. He uncovered hardwood oors throughout the home and re nished them himself. He also did all the tile work and painting himself. Two of the biggest projects he did on the home were opening up the kitchen to the dining room and adding a bathroom to the primary bedroom. Elfrink also converted a sunroom into a potting studio, where he hopes to teach pottery classes in the future.
One of Elfrink’s goals was to keep the character of the home intact, but he also uncovered many exciting things about some of the features. Six massive Douglas r beams that are original to the home were found to be from Northwest Arkansas, and the stone from the replace and chimney were from Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Elfrink especially loved the angled asymmetrical midcentury roof and the massive front grid window when he rst saw the home. “The curb appeal was undeniable,” he says. “And when you step inside, the space is lled with organic elements, raw wood ceilings, Douglas r beams, hardwood oors and a stone replace. You couldn’t ask for better character.”
As Elfrink poured his heart into rehabbing the home, he embarked on furnishing his spaces with treasures from his sister and items he had thrifted and collected. “Some
thoughtfully collected without feeling cluttered.”
One of his favorite places to thrift for unique pieces is Bear Market in Camdenton, Missouri. It was there that he found two midcentury lounge chairs that were made the exact same year the house was built. “They’re both by Playcraft and in pristine condition,” says Elfrink. “After I posted about nding them for only $125 each, the chairs went viral and got millions of views.” A few of his other favorite collected pieces are a vintage welding table that serves as a heavy, rustic co ee table, an old enamel farmhouse sink from the 1950s and a steel workbench. “I want things to be Instagrammable,” says Elfrink. “I want you to want to take a picture.” Even though he wants everything to be beautiful, comfort is also a big priority for him. “I’m a very realistic person,” says Elfrink. “I’m also all about a comfortable home.”
of my favorite pieces from my sister include a midcentury leather couch that all of her friends and family pitched in to get her when she bought her rst house a few years ago,” says Elfrink. “She was so particular about caring for it—always oiling the leather and making sure any scu or scratch was quickly tended to.” Another piece that Elfrink cherishes is a European mount that his sister harvested. “Micah was an avid hunter, and I keep that mount in my studio,” says Elfrink. “She pursued excellence in everything she did, so it is a beautiful reminder for me in my creative space.”
Elfrink considers his style to be collected with a blend of modern folk and Scandinavian design. “I love rich tones paired with clean, timeless pieces,” says Elfrink. “I appreciate when every inch of a space serves a functional purpose, and when a home feels
Today, the home continues to be a work in progress, but Elfrink is able to now take time to entertain family and friends with many of the spaces being complete. Monday night is game night, and he’s also about to host a themed midcentury cocktail night.
Elfrink really enjoys spending time in the living and dining area. “This is where most of the life happens, from movie nights on the leather furniture to game nights around the refurbished concrete dining table,” says Elfrink. “I want people to feel at peace in my home, to be intrigued by what’s around them, and to leave feeling both inspired and uplifted.” Even though there’s more work to be done, Elfrink embraces the fact that it’s just part of being passionate about older homes and all the thought and creativity that goes into them.
“I feel like renovations will never be nal,” says Elfrink. “Homes need to feel alive and continue to grow and change with the person who lives there.”
Grow Native
BY HEATHER KANE KOHLER
WITH MORE PEOPLE in the Ozarks embracingthe movement known as “naturescaping,” there has been a renewed interest in native plants, shrubs and trees in residential yards.
Not only do native shrubs add beauty and year-round interest to landscaping with striking blooms, vibrant fall foliage and berries that attract a variety of wildlife, they are also well suited for the Ozarks’ climate, requiring little maintenance and little watering. When you plant native shrubs you cut down on mowing, reducing gas pollutants;
you use less water, conserving fresh water; and you eliminate the need for pesticides, as native shrubs are naturally more resistant to pests. If you like the idea of planting shrubs that are lower-maintenance and preserve the natural diversity of the Ozarks, then there are several species of native shrubs to choose from, and many are available as seedlings through the Missouri Department of Conservation, along with guidance on how to plant each speci c variety.
The Showy Ones
If it’s abundant spring blooms you’re after, try planting ninebark, a deciduous shrub
that grows to about 5 feet and produces clusters of small white owers in the spring. Once you know how to identify them, you can’t miss these owering bushes with dripping branches of white blooms in older neighborhoods around the Ozarks. Their blooms attract lots of insects and they produce yellowish, dry capsule fruits that turn reddish-brown in the fall. The fall foliage of ninebark is especially pretty with colors ranging from yellow-green to shades of pink and orange.
The Towering Ones
If you want a larger, taller shrub for privacy, arrowwood viburnum would be a great choice as it can grow up to 15 feet tall. Native Americans were known to use these shrubs’ straight stems for arrow shafts, hence the common name, “arrowwood.” These shrubs produce white spring owers and blueish black berries that attract wildlife like bees, birds and butter ies. They are also deer resistant, which is nice for rural areas. Arrowwood shrubs are considered an “area of concern” by the Missouri Department of Conservation, so planting this shrub could keep it from becoming extinct to the area and make it more common in the wild.
The Boldly Colorful Ones
Another native shrub that could make a great addition to landscaping is Ozark witch hazel, a shrub that has been growing in popularity, as it’s one of Missouri’s rst native plants to bloom each year. With many medicinal uses and unique red and yellow hues, this shrub can add a pop of vibrant color in the spring. Another native shrub that o ers deep red color to landscapes is fragrant sumac. It comes in shorter and taller varieties, both being drought resistant. Both types produce tight clusters of small, yellow owers and clusters of hairy, reddish berries that arrive in late summer, and their fall foliage is vibrant orange and scarlet.
Whether you have a small yard or sprawling acres, native shrubs not only help enhance our Ozarks landscape and provide for our wildlife, but they are easy to maintain and are environmentally friendly.
PLANT THESE NATIVE MISSOURI SHRUBS THIS FALL FOR THEIR YEAR-ROUND COLOR AND BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS.
Ninebark (top), arrowwood viburnum (middle) and Ozark witch hazel (bottom) bloom in the fall.
SAILING
IN 417-LAND
It’s been a well-kept secret for decades that two quiet, inland lakes are home to a shared community of sailing enthusiasts. Both Stockton Lake and Fellows Lake have rich and storied sailing histories, including an annual regatta that celebrates its 51st year this month. While sailing may seem like a pastime reserved for coastal regions, it is alive and well in our landlocked state thanks to the passionate people at the helm. Cue up the yacht rock—it’s time to set sail in the Ozarks.
WRITTEN BY KATY ST. CLAIR | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOSHUA BEECHER
We leave our shoes on the dock and climb aboard Barry Nelson’s 40-foot yacht. A bald eagle watches from its perch as we glide through the marina’s nowake zone. Nelson points the bow into the wind, and the sails snap to life. The lake is silent, save for the hush of the hull breaking the waves. It’s a beautiful day for sailing Stockton Lake.
Compared to other Missouri lakes, Stockton is quiet and unassuming—a clearwater reservoir with a non-development policy that keeps its tree-lined shores free of restaurants and homes. So how did it become home to the largest sailing race in the state? Its secret lies in the wind and the crew of characters keeping sailing culture alive in the Ozarks.
Setting Sail
When the Army Corps of Engineers established Stockton Lake in 1969, the goal was to establish an energy source and backup water supply for Spring eld. The Stockton Dam generates hydroelectric power for the city while the lake itself serves as ood control and provides supplemental water to City Utilities through a pipeline connected to Fellows Lake. Whether the Corps also intended for Stockton to become one of the top 10 inland sailing lakes in the country is unknown, but that’s exactly what happened.
According to the Army Corps of Engineers website, Stockton Lake sits at the natural divide between the Ozark Plateau and Missouri’s prairie lands. This unique positioning means the lake experiences a near-constant, energetic wind. On good days, the conditions are a sailor’s dream. On the more energetic days, the wind creates conditions more like ocean sailing with white caps and rolling waves. The sometimes-challenging
winds, combined with the lack of shoreline development, make Stockton a peaceful, uncrowded oasis for sailors.
Fellows Lake o ers similarly tranquil and sometimes-challenging conditions, thanks to its role as Spring eld’s drinking water supply. To protect the lake’s water quality, motorized boating is tightly regulated, and swimming is prohibited by the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks. Sailing, however, is an environmentally friendly alternative—the wind power, optional fuel usage, minimal wake and reduced noise pollution make sailing an ideal and long-standing tradition at both lakes.
The Governor’s Cup
While no one knows exactly who rst dropped a sailboat onto Stockton’s waters, the lake’s sailing history is nearly as old as the lake itself. Five years after opening its shores, Stockton hosted the rst annual Governor’s Cup Regatta. A regatta—for the landlubbers among us—is a sailing race. Over the years, the Governor’s Cup Regatta has seen it all: world-class sailors ying in from hundreds of miles away, ve-time champions like Mike Spurgeon, a ship full of pirates, tornadoes, and even a year with so little wind, the surface of the lake looked like glass.
Nelson competes in the annual Governor’s Cup Regatta, a world-class
As interest in sailing grows, so do e orts to make the regatta more accessible to spectators. Nelson, who also serves as Rear Commodore at Lake Stockton Yacht Club, established a regatta otilla where boaters can tie up and watch the action together. Looking ahead, he hopes to establish a livestream of the races to expand the viewership further.
Barry
sailing race that attracts sailors from all over to Lake Stockton.
Community at the Helm
Nelson is one of many sailing enthusiasts keeping the spirit of sailing alive and well in the Ozarks. A Minnesota native, Nelson began sailing in his twenties, crewing for a friend in a casual “beer can” race. He vividly remembers the exhilaration he felt the moment the sails rst snapped to life. Since then, his passion for harnessing the wind has taken him and his family across the globe, from the Caribbean Sea to Chesapeake Bay, from the Atlantic to the Paci c.
New York. This early start set the course for her life. No matter where she moved with her military family, she knew she needed access to sailing. “We moved around a lot,” Rasmussen says. “So I don’t have a place that’s really home. So the water is my home, and I always nd a way to get back home.” Now, Rasmussen, alongside Stephanie Cooper, leads the Women on the Water at Fellows Lake—a women’s only sailing group o ering monthly excursions, camaraderie and friendly competition.
Whether you were practically born on a boat like Rasmussen, initiated into sailing through a casual beer can race like Nelson, or discovered it later in life like Dr. Austin Frisbie, sailing is accessible to all. Frisbie—known online as Cap’n Doc—began sailing after being diagnosed with stage 3b colorectal cancer in 2021. Following that grim diagnosis, he turned to sailing as a positive distraction, immersing himself in videos and books during treatment. Now, cancer-free, he is a devoted sail-
ing enthusiast, often taking his “virtual shipmates” out for excursions on Stockton Lake. He encourages others to “ nd their sailboat” and uses his social media channels under the name Sailing Psych to advocate for early cancer detection, mental health and wellness.
No matter the circumstance, when you have a passion for something, you nd a way to make it happen. That mentality is a common thread between the sailing communities at both Stockton and Fellows. These landlocked sailors have found ways to pursue their passions, and they’re eager to share it with anyone who shows interest. As Nelson puts it, the more people who join, the more opportunity there is to learn. The goal is to build a thriving, active community and expand the knowledge base for everyone involved.
If you nd yourself curious, make your way to one of the local marinas. It won’t be hard to make a friend. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be the next one to catch the sailing bug.
Are you interested in trying out your sea legs? The area o ers numerous ways to get involved.
And yet, Nelson still calls Stockton one of the most beautiful and peaceful places he’s ever sailed. He and his family treat their boat moored on Stockton like a lakehouse and often bring family and friends out to sail. Jamie Rasmussen is a veteran’s lawyer by trade, the commodore of the Spring eld Sailing Club by choice, a sailing instructor at Fellows Lake, and an avid sailor since birth. At just two weeks old, her mother carried her in a sling during a sailing excursion out of West Point,
Springfield Sailing Club at Fellows Lake: evening group sails, sailing lessons, sailboat rentals, annual regattas and social events. watershedcommittee.org/fellows-lake/sailing-information
Women on the Water: women-only sailing club through Springfield Sailing Club, monthly group sailing excursions. springfieldsailingclub.com
51st Annual Governor’s Cup Regatta: September 20 & 21, 11 a.m. Orleans Trail Resort, 15828 S. 1525 Rd., Stockton stocktonyachtclub.com/governor-s-cup-regatta
Lake Stockton Yacht Club: sailing and racing community; low membership fee. stocktonyachtclub.com
Our local sushi scene is still fairly young—it barely dates back to Y2K. But what it lacks in years, it makes up for in quality, and many of our sushi restaurants have been in business for more than a decade. Despite the modest population sizes of the Springfield, Branson and Joplin metro areas, these economies sustain multiple sushi joints. Sushi lovers have a fierce loyalty to their go-tos, but there's still room for newcomers to succeed. Our local sushi chefs do a phenomenal job of meeting diners where they are while encouraging them to branch out. This looks like putting squid in a deep-fried roll or o ering dessert at the end of an omakase, even though it's rarely part of the tradition in other cities. We're living in the golden era for sushi in the Ozarks. Even though we're landlocked, we still have access to the same tuna, uni, sea bass and scallops you can find on the coasts or even in Japan. This is a delicious deep dive into the 417-land sushi scene—what makes it tick, here to find the best rolls, how to understand the menu and who is behind the counter.
WRITTEN BY TESSA COOPER, PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRANDON ALMS
Make-your-own roll from Craft Sushi (left), shucked scallops from Ariake’s omakase experience (below)
WE TRIED THE
Omakase at Ariake
Omakase means “I leave it up to you” in Japanese. This culinary experience gives you the opportunity to watch Ariake’s master sushi chef and co-owner, John Jung, prepare a series of nigiri, sashimi and various cooked offerings that he personally selects for your enjoyment. I took a seat at the sushi bar for this story and unpack it all here.
It’s hard to put the omakase at Ariake into words. On a cozy, rainy evening, my husband, Chandler, and I made our way there for the experience, and it wasn’t until we got to our car that we were really able to process all that Chef John Jung had bestowed upon our taste buds. Visions and avors of nigriri with skin that shimmered, Wagyu beef served in a cloud of smoke and adorned with edible gold and sake in hand-blown glass cups lled our minds the whole way home.
Omakase is a multicourse tasting menu. It’s a series of small, individual plates prepared right in front of you and served one at a time, and you’ll probably lose track somewhere between 10 and 15 dishes.
A Kusshi oyster, scallops, uni, sea bass, shrimp and Spanish bluen otoro (often considered the most expensive sh in the world) were among what we got to enjoy. Although each omakase experience is subject to change, come expecting miso soup, velvety smooth chawanmushi (a traditional savory egg custard), plenty of nigiri and sashimi, a couple of cooked o erings, a bowl of buckwheat noodles to aid digestion and a light dessert.
A manager is always there to walk you through the avors during the entire experience. On the night we went, our guide was Terri Martin, whom Ariake regulars know and love. She briefed us on each component, sharing details like where they sourced the catch and how to best consume it.
For example, she told us to eat the shucked scallops topped with lemon juice, chili oil, lava salt, toasted sesame seeds, strawberry
and pickle the way you would an oyster. It slid right o the shell, and we got to enjoy the salty, sweet, soft and crunchy components all at once. She also advised us to cleanse our palates with nibbles of shiso leaves between bites of the toro trio. Without this tip, we would have otherwise mistaken this leaf for just a garnish and missed out on its herbal avor pro le that tasted like a cross between mint and basil.
One avor was a constant throughout: umami. It’s an overused word, but there isn’t another term that perfectly describes that savory taste. A few cooked dishes, such as baked sea bass and shrimp tempura, o er an intermission for your taste buds between helpings of nigiri and sashimi, but you have to be a fan of raw sh to truly enjoy an omakase experience. Or, at least be open to the idea of becoming a fan. If anyone can make you a convert, it’s Chef John. I learned one helpful tip from Terri: Don’t feel obligated to nish every single course, but eat each one immediately. This may seem counterintuitive to everything you’ve been taught about manners and ne dining. However, this allows you to save room to try at least one bite of each o ering. The reason you should quickly enjoy each plate once the chef presents it to you is so you can savor it at its freshest. This is especially true for the nigiri, because the heat of the rice can actually alter the quality of the sh if you let it sit before consuming.
Getting a front-row seat to Chef John at work is like watching an artist in their studio. He shapes nigiri rice with graceful movements, applies soy sauce to the top with a small brush, and delicately places dots of freshly grated wasabi root using tweezers.
The bright orange salmon roe, pale yellow yuzu skin, light purple shiso owers and dusting of green matcha salt that adorn the sashimi and nigiri aren’t merely toppings or garnishes. Because he carefully selects each component with consideration for both presentation and taste, they are accompaniments that are a fusion of the two.
The small vessels on which he serves each component are also works of art. His wife and business partner, Young, has thoughtfully curated the omakase servingware collection, sourcing pieces from Korea and Japan that are a nod to historical references and hold meaningful cultural signi cance.
John is from Seoul, South Korea, and initially moved to Missouri to study at the University of Missouri. He later relocated to Spring eld to earn a degree in computer science from Missou-
ri State University. He and Young noticed a void in Japanese and Korean o erings at the time, so they seized the opportunity to bring these global avors to our city.
They opened Haruno Japanese Sushi Bar & Grill in 1999, Kai After Dark in 2007, Koriya in 2011, Karai Ramen + Handroll in 2018 and Ariake Sushi & Robata in 2023. Although Koriya and Kai are now under new ownership, the couple still acts as a sounding board for the businesses. They have successfully built a thriving restaurant empire and set the standard for quality sushi in our corner of the Ozarks.
“John is self-taught,” says Terri. “Every time I see him, he’s reading a book, and it’s usually about sushi.”
O ering omakase has been a longtime dream for the couple. Omakase isn’t a dinner,
it’s an educational experience. It’ll elevate every future visit you make to Ariake, because you’ll have a better understanding of which nigiri and sashimi best please your palate. You’ll know that you should dip your chopsticks in the soy sauce rather than the nigiri since it gets slippery. You’ll leave with an appreciation for the buttery texture of sea urchin from Hokkaido, sea bass that’s baked to perfection rather than fried in butter and the way sake cleanses and opens your palate between each bite.
Ariake o ers its omakase experience Monday through Thursday at 6 p.m. on a reservation-only basis. It costs $200 per person.
Chef John Jung (this page) shows off ingredients used for crafting dishes like the Kusshi oyster (opposite).
Hawaii Five-O Roll from Ocean Zen
Showstoppers
If you want to take your taste buds on a little joyride, here are the rolls to order.
I’M CRAVIN’ KOREAN ROLL
Craft Sushi, Spring eld, craft-sushi.com
It’s sweet, tangy, salty and spicy. It’s everything you never knew you wanted in a sushi roll.
Flavor Pro le: Korean-style beef, pickled slaw and apple, sweet soy, sriracha mayo
Must-Try Pairing: pickled Asian slaw
EYE OF THE TIGER ROLL
Momo Sushi & Grill, Spring eld and Branson, momosushispring eld.com, momobranson.com
You don’t often come across a sushi roll in 417-land featuring squid, but the other familiar ingredients in this roll make trying it for the rst time super approachable.
Flavor Pro le: squid, smoked salmon, cream cheese, deep-fried Must-Try Pairing: strawberry Japanese soda
SIGNATURE KARAI ROLL
Karai Ramen + Handroll, Spring eld, karairamen.com
The barbecued pork gives o a subtle smoky avor, the tamago (rolled omelet) provides a spongy texture and the hot rock sauce rounds it all out in one perfect, unique roll.
Flavor Pro le: barbecued pork, crab, cucumber, tamago, jalapeño, hot rock sauce
Must-Try Pairing: green tea crème brûlée
GEISHA ROLL
Umi Sushi Bar, Spring eld, facebook.com/umisushibarmo
This is Umi’s most-ordered roll, and for good reason. It features fresh blue n tuna, a highly sought-after catch.
Flavor Pro le: shrimp tempura, crab, fresh blue n tuna, cream cheese, tempura shavings, masago, Japanese mayo, eel sauce Must-Try Pairing: baby octopus seaweed
HAWAII FIVE-O ROLL
Ocean Zen, Spring eld, eatoceanzen.com
The menu at Ocean Zen draws inspiration from not only Japan but also other regions in the Paci c Rim, including Hawaii. This roll is the perfect example of that with its tangy pineapple salsa.
Flavor Pro le: peppercorn crusted seared rare ahi tuna, crab, avocado, cucumber, pineapple salsa Must-Try Pairing: blue crab and cream cheese stu ed wontons
BIG ISLAND ROLL
Tokyo Japanese Steak House, Joplin, tokyosteakhousemo.com
Both the llings and the toppings pack a punch in the avor department in the Big Island Roll, but it’s the bold duo of the Thai chili sauce and pineapple that will really make it all come alive.
Flavor Pro le: crab salad, avocado, cucumber, tuna tataki, Thai chili sauce, pineapple Must-Try Pairing: tiger cake
MANGO TANGO ROLL
Raku Hibachi Sushi & Ramen, Ozark, rakuozark.com
If you’re craving a light and fresh roll that still packs a punch in the avor department, this is it. The mango adds a touch of brightness.
Flavor Pro le: fried shrimp, crabmeat, seared tuna, mango salsa and wasabi aioli sauce
Must-Try Pairing: Strawberry Japanese Sando
SUKI SAKE
Ariake, Spring eld, ariakesushirobata.com
The Suki Sake o ers an explosion of avors: tangy lemon zest, umami from salmon and its roe, salty eel sauce, a touch of spicy sriracha, and the nuanced avor of tru e oil.
Flavor Pro le: crab, avocado, cucumber, salmon, salmon roe, lemon zest, tru e oil, eel sauce, sriracha, ash-fried Must-Try Pairing: Gekkeikan Traditional (house hot sake)
Sashimi sampler, chef’s choice sushi sampler, and Eye of the Tiger Roll from Momo Sushi & Grill
Aka Sake Roll from Hinode
Fresh & Simple
This roundup of sushi highlights high-quality raw and fresh catches. Fish is the star ingredient in all, and the minimal toppings complement rather than compete.
UNI
Ariake, Spring eld, ariakesushirobata.com
Uni (sea urchin) isn’t something you want to order just anywhere, because a bad batch can turn you o of it forever. But the uni at Ariake is as high-quality as it comes and is imported from Hokkaido in northern Japan. Its buttery mouthfeel, combined with its umami avor, creates a one-ofa-kind experience.
Flavor Pro le: briny and creamy
Must-Try Pairing: Otokoyama Junmai sake
SASHIMI APPETIZER
Kai, Spring eld, kaiafterdark.com
This six-piece appetizer is the perfect way to kick o a sushi feast. The sh selection is up to the chef, so allow yourself the opportunity to be surprised. Start with the leanest and work your way to the fattiest.
Flavor Pro le: fresh, raw, seasonal
Must-Try Pairing: dessert sushi roll
AKA SAKE ROLL
Hinode, Spring eld and Nixa, eathinode.com
If you love raw sushi with simple ingredients but still nd yourself craving sauce that
adds avor to your roll, this one is for you.
Flavor Pro le: crab, fresh salmon, avocado, cucumber, spicy mayo, sweet and spicy sauce, sesame seeds
Must-Try Pairing: edamame
TUNA TATAKI
Haruno, Spring eld, harunosushi.com
These slices of tuna are still raw and fresh, yet they show o a perfect sear. The ponzu sauce avor is equal parts zesty and garlicky.
Flavor Pro le: seared tuna, garlic ponzu sauce
Must-Try Pairing: ika sansei salad
VEGETARIAN
FUTOMAKI ROLL
Momo Sushi & Grill, Spring eld and Branson, momosushispring eld.com, momobranson.com
This roll o ers you the chance to enjoy vegetables with avor pro les that are hard to come by in 417-land, such as Japanese pickled burdock root and dried bottle gourd.
We chatted with Niji Sushi Bar & Grill’s head sushi chef, Cong Trieu, to learn how this family business won over the taste buds and loyalty of sushi lovers in Galloway Village.
When Michelle Huynh and Bryan Trieu moved to America from Vietnam, they became nail technicians. They’d spend their days turning rst-time customers into regulars by remembering their names and applying each coat of nail polish with precision. Through the care for their craft, they were building a successful nail salon, but all for someone else.
That’s why getting to open Rainbow Nails and Venus Nail Bar in Spring eld was a dream come true for the couple. After building a successful nail salon empire, they were ready to take on a di erent industry. They forayed into the local food and beverage scene by opening Niji Sushi Bar & Grill, followed by Teaology Boba Cafe.
Huynh knew just the people to help open Niji. Her brotherin-law, Cong Trieu, is married to her cousin, Thu Nguyen, and the two are a culinary power couple. Cong has 25 years of experience in the restaurant industry and originally moved to Spring eld in 2002 to help his brother open Little Tokyo, which is where he learned to make sushi.
He later honed his skills in the kitchen at Nakato Japanese Restaurant. Thu has always been
known as the family foodie, so she helped design the menu. On any given day, you’ll nd Cong leading the kitchen at Niji and Thu either serving or whipping up colorful cocktails and pouring Japanese whiskey behind the bar.
When you visit Niji, you can go knowing you’re eating high-quality sh. For example, they receive weekly overnight shipments of tuna straight from Hawaii. If you’re unsure of what to try on your rst visit, the Niji Signature Roll just so happens to be their most popular.
Niji means rainbow in Japanese, which is only tting since the business got its start during the tumultuous times of 2020 and emerged from the pandemic more successful than ever.
Cong and Thu helped Niji succeed the same way Michelle and Bryan succeeded at their nail salons—they made a commitment to being the best at their craft and prioritizing customer satisfaction above all else. “My favorite part of working at Niji is getting to make the customers happy,” Cong says. “[If anything] goes wrong, we always try to x it immediately. Because we’re a small business, we can take care of it right away.”
Chef Cong Trieu
Some Like It Hot
If you’re not one to shy away from spice or an open flame, these rolls are for you.
FIRE ROLL
Sakura Japanese Sushi Bar and Grill, Spring eld, sakuraspring eld.com
True to its name, this roll is served on re. The ames give the toppings of shrimp and avocado a subtle smoky avor.
Flavor Pro le: shrimp tempura, crab, cooked shrimp, avocado, sriracha mayo, eel sauce
Must-Try Pairing: mochi ice cream
HAN C4 ROLL
Han The Sushi Man, Joplin, facebook.com/hansushiman
There are some rolls that the menu describes as spicy, but this one is labeled as “very” spicy. It contains a few ery llings, but the mix of spicy sauce and sriracha drizzled on top really brings the heat.
Flavor Pro le: shrimp tempura, spicy crab salad, eel, jalapeño, eel sauce, spicy sauce, sriracha sauce
Must-Try Pairing: calamari salad
DRAGON FIRE ROLL
Mitsu Neko Sushi & Ramen, Branson, mitsunekobranson.com
This roll comes to you ablaze, but it’s the spicy mayo that gives it a lingering heat.
Flavor Pro le: shrimp tempura, crab, eel, cucumber, avocado, spicy mayo, eel sauce
Must-Try Pairing: Tonkatsu Ramen
FIRE TIGER ROLL
Sushi Village, Spring eld, sushivillagemo.com
Asparagus is an underrated sushi lling, especially when it’s covered in tempura, paired with spicy tuna and served on re.
Flavor Pro le: asparagus tem-
pura, spicy tuna, crab, avocado, shrimp, eel sauce, spicy mayo
Must-Try Pairing: clear mushroom soup
OH MY VEGGIE!
Haruno Sushi Bar & Grill, Spring eld, harunosushi.com
You don’t have to be a vegetarian to enjoy a roll lled with a medley of veggies. They serve it on re when you order it in-house, but it also tastes great cold if you need to take it to go.
Flavor Pro le: asparagus, yellow radish, shredded daikon radish, sweet gourd shavings, cucumber, avocado, sriracha, Japanese mayo, eel sauce
Must-Try Pairing: chocolate banana spring rolls
Tuna tataki, Oh My Veggie roll, crystal shrimp, seaweed salad and sashimi sampler from Haruno
FRYING HOT ROLL
Hibachi Steak & Sushi, Spring eld, facebook.com/ Hibachi-steak-sushi
If your idea of a good sushi roll is one that’s fried and topped with a ery sauce, look no further. And if you’re craving some more re action, just turn your attention to the hibachi grill located in the back of the restaurant.
Flavor Pro le: yellowtail, tuna, cream cheese, spicy sauce
Must-Try Pairing: calamari tempura
SPICY CALIFORNIA ROLL
Nakato Japanese Restaurant, Spring eld, nakatospring eld.com
We all love a classic California roll, but those with a palate for heat can agree that it tastes even better with some hot sauce, or in this case, two hot sauces.
Flavor Pro le: crab, avocado, mayo, masago, Nakato hot sauce, sriracha
Must-Try Pairing: bacon-wrapped scallops
Tastes Like Home
Move over, California and Philly rolls. These rolls are named after our very own 417-land and show off local pride with top-notch ingredients.
MSU FRIED ROLL
Niji Sushi Bar & Grill, Spring eld, nijisushigrill.com
It’s perfect as is, but comes with the option to add some spicy crab on top. Word to the wise: Do it.
Flavor Pro le: yellowtail, crab, cream cheese, spicy mayo
Must-Try Pairing: Purple Haze hot sake
417 FUSION ROLL
Ocean Zen, Spring eld, eatoceanzen.com
The small details are what make this roll. This is evident in the salmon’s standout prep method and the tasty nal embellishment of furikake.
Flavor Pro le: misoyaki-torched and wasabi-cured salmon, crispy shrimp tempura, cream cheese, avocado, furikake
Must-Try Pairing: Asian pear salad
SPRINGFIELD ROLL
Umi Sushi Bar, Spring eld, facebook.com/umisushibarmo
This one shows o turf instead of surf as its main meat, so it’s only tting that Umi chose to name this roll after our very own land-locked Queen City.
Flavor Pro le: grilled steak, carrots, avocado, cucumber, sweet eel sauce
Here’s another deep-fried roll that’s lled with ingredients featuring myriad of avors and textures. Your taste buds will be tantalized with the creamy, spicy and crispy elements. Flavor Pro le: shrimp tempura, cream cheese, avocado, baked spicy scallop, spicy crab, deep-fried Must-Try Pairing: mango and lime fresh fruit tea
CARDINALS ROLL
Hinode Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi, Spring eld and Nixa, eathinode.com
When the St. Louis Cardinals are on a roll, celebrate with this roll that layers on the sauces.
Flavor Pro le: spicy crab, avocado, cream cheese, mayo, sweet chili, eel sauce
Must-Try Pairing: squid salad
MISSOURI ROLL
Ohana Japanese Steakhouse, Spring eld, ohana417.com
You can’t go wrong with sushi that features both shrimp tempura and crab meat as its lling, but it’s the shredded crab stick layered on the outside that separates this roll from the crowd.
Flavor Pro le: shrimp tempura, crab meat, shredded crab stick, spicy mayo and eel sauce
Must-Try Pairing: Fu-Ki plum wine
OZARK ROLL
Maru Sushi & Grill, Ozark, marusushiandgrill.com
Named after its hometown, this sushi is an elevated take on a California roll. You’ll eat with your eyes rst because it’s topped with a layer of bright orange roe.
Wakyoto Japanese Restaurant, Branson, facebook.com/sushibranson
What makes this basic crab roll worthy of being named after Branson?
The fact that it’s deep-fried, of course.
Flavor Pro le: crab, avocado, cucumber, deep fried
Must-Try Pairing: Gyoza
FINANCIAL PROFILES
These local nancial advisors o er personalized guidance to help clients achieve nancial goals, secure their future and navigate economic uncertainties. This section highlights leaders dedicated to client success, prioritizing trust through transparent advice and comprehensive strategies.
For 30 years Achieve Private Wealth, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, has helped clients achieve their dreams for today, tomorrow, and well into the future. With the exclusive Con dent Retirement® approach, they break your nancial goals into doable steps, taking the uncertainty out of planning and helping you live the life you’ve earned.
They are led by Chief Executive Of cer of Achieve Private Wealth Paula Dougherty, MBA, CFP®, CKA®, BFA™, APMA™, CRPC™, ChFC®, CLU®, Private Wealth Advisor; J. Scott Taylor, CFP®, CRPC™, Financial Advisor; Chief Operating Of cer of Achieve Private Wealth Sam Ackerman, BFA™, CRPC®, APMA® Financial Advisor; Heather Ince, CRPC®, Financial Advisor; Associate Financial Advisor Dalton Cloyd; and Of ce Manager Taryn May.
Each advisor specializes in providing a comprehensive approach to nancial planning including wealth management, portfolio construction, rebalancing, and investment management strategies. Additionally, they specialize in the areas of retirement planning and risk management strategies, as well as assisting clients with choosing employee bene ts that t their needs.
Achieve Private Wealth helps 417-landers work to achieve their nancial goals based on what is truly important to them. They are here to help you adapt to any changes you face along the way and formulate plans for both the expected and unexpected. Call today and start working with an advisor. Your brilliant future starts here.
Standing: Dalton Cloyd, Associate Financial Advisor; J. Scott Taylor, Financial Advisor; Samuel Ackerman, Financial Advisor Sitting: Heather A. Ince, Financial Advisor; Paula J. Dougherty, Private Welath Advisor; Taryn M. May, Of ce Manager
Front Row: Eric Gerke, SVP Regional Lending Manager (NMLS# 499516); Barbra Wallace, SVP Commercial Loan Of cer (NMLS# 554849); Joselyn Baldner, President & CEO (NMLS# 2365769); Missy Montgomery, SVP Commercial Loan Of cer (NMLS# 412281); Middle Row: Stephanie Murphy, VP Commercial Loan Of cer (NMLS# 1313740); Blair Gann, VP Loan Of cer (NMLS# 2299464); Jamie Clark, SVP CCO (NMLS# 554855); Justin Loveday, VP Loan Of cer (NMLS# 914231); Crystal Sharp, SVP Regional Lending Manager (NMLS# 742920); Joe Land, Commercial Lender Trainee (NMLS# 2622695); Back Row: Tyler Phillips, VP, Commercial Loan Of cer (NMLS# 1706830); Kendal Dingus, VP Loan Of cer (NMLS# 1695099); Bryan Horton, VP Commercial Loan Of cer (NMLS# 2108011); Blake Will, SVP Director of Commercial Lending (NMLS# 2119348); Jeff Jones, VP Loan Of cer (NMLS# 1159752); Jared Reeves, AVP Commercial Loan Of cer (NMLS# 2622250); Michael Baldus, Commercial Loan Of cer (NMLS# 2432995)
CENTRAL BANK
417-881-3100 CENTRALBANK.COM 1800 S. GLENSTONE AVE., SPRINGFIELD
Member FDIC | NMLS #407985
Experience the Power of Local Banking. When it comes to business, nothing beats the value of local connections. Central Bank of the Ozarks’ team believes in doing business face-to-face because understanding each client’s unique needs starts with a conversation, not an email chain. Its team of commercial lenders lives and works right here in the Spring eld community, so they know the market and, more importantly, they get to know their clients.
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Skyler Whitworth, Jay McIntyre, Brandi Luna, Skylar Smith, McKenna Sweet
SIMMONS BANK
For more than 120 years, Simmons Bank - Private Wealth has been working with individual clients, businesses, family foundations, endowments and charitable organizations to provide fully coordinated planning and advisement to address their complex nancial needs. Locally, their team of over a dozen specialized professionals provides comprehensive wealth solutions to clients and manages roughly $1.5 billion in assets.
Investment management is not just about nding the best stock or bond. Each individual has speci c goals, risk tolerances and return objectives. Uniquely specialized investment managers take the time to understand those needs before the rst security is purchased. Once investment objectives are determined, the team builds out a sophisticated, disciplined and diversi ed investment portfolio that is designed to meet the client’s needs.
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Back row: Kirsten Morgan, Lauren Southern, Clayton Campbell, Molly Higdon, Matt Williams, Sumer Tripp, Andy Drennen, Jennifer Moore, Chris Schrag; front row: Jonathan Robertson, Tricia Yim, Stephen Smith
ARVEST BANK
When it comes to planning for the future, having a team of trusted nancial experts is crucial. Arvest Wealth Management’s advisors assist individuals, families, businesses, and institutions in building, managing, protecting, and transitioning their wealth. These advisors prioritize understanding each client’s nancial goals to provide customized advice and comprehensive solutions. Throughout any stage of life, Arvest Wealth Management works with clients to strategically plan for major life events. To meet with a client advisor or trust of cer in Spring eld or another location in southwest Missouri, call 417-885-7244 or schedule an appointment online at appointments.arvest.com.
Randy Lyons, Senior Client Advisor, SVP; Robin Cole, Registered Sales Assistant; Justin Giles, Client Advisor, VP; Ryan Rodgers, Client Advisor
TURN THE PAGE TO FIND PIPING HOT DINING NEWS AND SOME EXTRADELICIOUS OZARKS EATS.
Taste is
ARE YOU READY TO DIG INTO THE YUMMIEST STUFF AROUND? LET’S EAT!
Dinnertime Is Playtime
In Branson, The Social Birdy combines outdoor pickleball and mini golf fun with a menu lled with satisfying eats.
BY KATIE POLLOCK ESTES
Taste is
WHEN MICROBREWERIES
were rst experiencing a boom in the Ozarks, it wasn’t just their tasty local beers that caught everyone’s attention. It was the whole vibe: a low-key place to gather with friends in a outdoor space, while playing a few lawn games.
Clearly, our neighborhood breweries were onto something because the concept of foodplus-fun has absolutely exploded in 417-land. Enter The Social Birdy, one of the latest iterations of this oh-so-welcome trend that couples tasty eats with good, old-fashioned human connection.
Located in Branson, The Social Birdy offers dining, pickleball courts and a mini-golf course outside, plus dining and simulated golf inside. I stopped by with my family on our way to Silver Dollar City on a beautiful afternoon, so we sat outside on the patio. The space features plenty of shade for me and my fellow sun-hating vampires, plus several sunny tables for everybody else. There are a couple of cornhole sets, loads of space and a view that we weren’t expecting: wooded hills and big sky. If you peek o the sides of the patio, you can look down and watch the mini-golfers and pickleballers.
We came hungry, so we started our meal with an appetizer. We truly struggled with choosing an app; the chicken wings topped with gochujang sauce (omg!) and the margarita pizza both tempted our taste buds. Ultimately, we got an order of loaded nachos. I was a big fan of the pickled onions, fresh jalapeño slices and pico de gallo that came
Open Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
on top. They made every bite zippy and fresh and o set the heft of the heavier toppings: gooey cheese sauce and tender pulled pork. Our only complaint was that the pulled pork was a bit lacking in salt.
While my son and daughter ordered o the very a ordable kids menu (and added Oreo milkshakes, because why the heck not?), Eli and I decided to order two sandwiches and split them so we could both try them. He opted for the Texan burger (described on the menu as a “chimichurri burger” and topped with pepper-jack cheese, green chili aioli, fresh jalapeño slices and pico de gallo). For the side he upgraded to sweet potato fries, which were sprinkled with cinnamon and came with a side of marshmallow u for dipping. They were a treat!
Although we both enjoyed the burger, the highlight of the meal was de nitely the B-Town Hot Chicken Sandwich. It was a
thick and juicy chicken breast hand-breaded and cooked to crispy perfection. It was tossed in a bu alo-style hot sauce that didn’t pack a huge amount of heat but did add a pleasant tingle. On top were more of those pickled red onions that we loved on the nachos.
Although we had to race o after lunch to get to our next destination, we still found ourselves eyeing the mini golf course. The weather was perfect and the vibes were right, but alas, that will have to wait till next time.
PHOTOS
COCKTAIL HOUR / BY TESSA COOPER
Something a Bit Stronger
When your crew is in the mood for a cold pint at a brewery but you’re craving a cocktail, everyone wins at 4 By 4 Brewing Company. Their recent addition of draft cocktails has been extremely well-received at both locations. You’ll nd ve avors on tap that are always subject to change depend-
ing on the season or a bartender’s burst of creative energy. However, past greatest hits have included their takes on the classics. Whether you prefer something bold like an old fashioned or something a bit brighter like a paloma, there will be something a bit stronger than beer that hits the spot. Cheers!
Cool o with a fresh Watermelon Mojito (left), Blueberry Lavender Spritz (center) and Peach Squeeze (right).
Confection Perfection
Leo Kim, chef and owner of The Gochu Handcrafted Korean BBQ Bowl and Keikeu Co ee, Tea and Desserts makes an art out of his dishes.
BY TESSA COOPER
IN A SOCIETY WHERE PEOPLE often value fast food and convenience above quality, Leo Kim is part of the counterculture. Kim is the chef and owner of The Gochu
Handcrafted Korean BBQ Bowl and Keikeu Co ee, Tea and Desserts (both located at 14 Mill Market in Nixa), and isn’t one to settle for mediocrity.
His process for choosing the co ee for Keikeu is a prime example. After sipping countless cups, he made the well-ca einated decision to go with beans from Stereoscope Co ee in L.A.
Kim was born in Seoul, South Korea, but his family relocated to Argentina when he was 5. By age 8, he was already making his own snacks from scratch and watching cooking shows. When he turned 18 and moved to L.A., he became deeply immersed in the city’s diverse culinary scene. Kim attended the Sushi Chef Institute in Torrance, California. After completing the program and adding a few restaurants to his resume, his sushi sensei invited him to teach at the program. This opportunity allowed him to meet students from all over the world, and he later traveled across the U.S. to help some of them start their own businesses.
PHOTO
ORIGIN STORY
Upon visiting his friend in Spring eld, he unexpectedly fell in love with the Ozarks, speci cally Nixa. “I grew up in a small town in Argentina, and I wanted my kids to experience that same small-town vibe,” he says. When 14 Mill Market opened, he became a regular and couldn’t help but notice it was lacking Korean o erings. He approached the owners to suggest adding some, and the rest is history.
Must-Try Items From Keikeu
Leo Kim invited us to try a sampling of Keikeu’s madefrom-scratch desserts. Here are the ones we loved most.
Iced Strawberry Matcha
Kim considers the ceremonial-grade matcha they serve from Mizuba Tea Co. to be the “best quality you can get in the market right now.” The made-in-house strawberry purée adds sweetness, although the matcha is smooth enough to order plain.
Cream Cake
Keikeu’s cream cakes have a light, spongy texture and are decadent without being too sweet. Flavors change, but if they’ve got Dubai chocolate on the lineup, it’s your lucky day.
Maritozzi
Maritozzi is an iconic Roman pastry. In the 19th century, Italians would use it to hide a ring inside to propose. These brioche buns are stuffed with chantilly cream, and instead of a ring, you’ll find a gem of a different kind: a dollop of strawberry, blueberry or yuzu filling.
FLAVOR BOMB
A Culinary Collab
Try the Bawi Bowl from Bawi Korean BBQ and The Press Co ee & Juice Bar.
BY TESSA COOPER
GAWI BAWI BO HOSPITALITY
(GBBH) has wooed taste buds for years with Hinode Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi and Bawi Korean BBQ. Recently, the group took on a new project: The Press Co ee & Juice Bar. “We took over ownership in 2023 but kept changes to a minimum until we fully understood the brand and clientele,” says GBBH managing member Cosmo Kwon. One of these tasty changes is the Bawi Bowl, available at both Bawi and The Press. The collaboration between the two sister businesses is a warm rice bowl layered with savory protein, sautéed onions and tangy pickled radish. It’s all nished with a spicy, creamy house sauce for a avor that dominates without competing. Guests choose their own adventure with chicken teriyaki, beef bulgogi, spicy pork or tofu.
The Ultimate Fall Festival for Foodies
Gardener’s Orchard and Bakery’s fall festival isn’t a mere one-weekend a air. It’s a multi-weekend experience that runs from Labor Day to the end of October, and it’s an absolute dream for foodies of all ages. In September, the focus is on apples. Come for apple picking and enjoy this in-season fruit in its prime at the bakery in more deli-
Sip the apple cider slushy, made from apples from Gardener’s Orchard.
cious ways than one. Since you never know what to expect from fall weather, there’s hot apple cider or an apple crisp sundae to cool you down. Come October, it’s all about pumpkins. Sample a pumpkin donut or pumpkin pie sundae. You never know what new foods they’ll serve, but some past o erings include Gardener’s fresh pizza and smash burgers.
PHOTOS
TRY THIS NOW | BY TESSA COOPER
BITESIZE REVIEW
A Good Catch
Head to Seafood Express for hidden nds like live Maine lobster and blue crabs and fresh bison and Wagyu beef.
BY TESSA COOPER
To the general public, Seafood Express (2805 W. Chestnut Expy., Springfield) is a hidden gem. But to local food connoisseurs, it’s a frequent stop on grocery day. This market and deli stocks fresh and frozen fruits of the sea, as well as meat that’s hard to find anywhere else in 417-land. We’re talking live Maine lobster and blue crabs, fresh oysters, never-frozen trout, shrimp, Cajun sausage, whole alligators, bison and Wagyu beef. And we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that owner Chris Perkins personally makes weekly seafood runs to the Gulf Coast to buy products o the boats and will gladly steam anything for you upon request. Perusing the colorful shelves of dry goods is also a pure delight for any epicurean, with o erings such as tinned fish from Spain, products imported from New Orleans, baking shells, and seafood tools. While going grocery shopping while you’re hungry is never really a good idea, Seafood Express is the exception. There’s a deli located in the back that serves a rotating selection of sandwiches like mu alettas, shrimp and crawfish po’boys and lobster rolls. You’ll also find boiled peanuts, gumbo and soups like clam chowder and alligator chili. Enjoy your meal, stock up your fridge and pantry, and laissez les bons temps rouler
A5 Hot Rock
Dining Guide
OUR DINING GUIDE FEATURES A SELECT LIST OF RESTAURANTS IN THE Ozarks. The magazine’s editors recommend all these restaurants, and we don’t accept freebies in exchange for reviews or listings. Entries are updated often and appear based on space availability. Specially featured restaurants are chosen by editors in service to readers.
$ = under $10, $$ = mostly $10-20, $$$ = $20 or more
203 E. Mount Vernon St., Nixa, 14millmarket.com Food hall. There are 10 restaurant concepts, the full-service Wisner Bar and a fun outdoor entertainment area. Stop by for Korean barbecue bowls at The Gochu, sweets at Liege Love Wa e Co., tacos at No’cho Ordinary Taco, pretty desserts and boba tea at Keikeu, burgers at MO Slider Company, British pasties at London Calling, shaved ice at Sno Biz, poke bowls at Fresh Poke, barbecue at Uptown Hog, pizza at Classic Pizza Co., and more. $–$$ L D d
ANDY B’S ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
1127 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8831234; 405 Branson Landing Blvd., Branson, 417-213-8631; bowlandybs.com. American fare. The restaurant at Andy B’s Entertainment Center o ers lane-side food service and a menu full of hearty, tasty fare like burgers, pizzas, pasta and more. There’s a full-service bar here, too. $ L D
AVIARY BY LAVENDER FALLS
2144 E. Republic Road, Suite E120, Springfield, 417-881-9736; aviarycafe. com
Crepes and bistro fare. This spot has long been known for being one of the few places in the area to get freshly prepared crepes—which you can find there in both savory and sweet varieties. But there’s so much more besides crepes. There are also beautiful salads and delicious entrees that have a little bit of French flair.
$–$$ B L D d
BAIR’S SPORTS GRILL
3821 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3685919; 1644 Highway 60 East, Republic, 417-7325077; 701 N. McCroskey St., Suite 1, Nixa, 417-7253777; bairsburgers.com
Burgers. There are 22 appetizers and 50 burgers on the menu at Bair’s, plus plenty of non-burger sandwiches, great chicken wings and salads. We love the burger that is topped with ranch dressing and fried pickles. The sweet corn nuggets are also excellent. $ L D d
BIG WHISKEY’S
Several 417-land locations, bigwhiskeys.com American. Springfield’s go-to for bu alo chicken dip, burgers and the staple pub foods has locations spreading throughout the Midwest. Fans rave about the spin dip too—a cheesy concoction with spinach and a little bit of heat. Don’t miss the ever-popular burgers, including the pretzel burger with horseradish aioli, bacon and cheddar. There are also chicken wings, a handful of salads (we like the Strawberry Hill), hand-cut steaks and more. $$ BL D d
BLACK SHEEP BURGERS & SHAKES
BIG EASY GRILL
3641 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-0040 Cajun. The jambalaya is fantastic, and we like to order it extra-spicy. The oyster po’boys are customer favorites, and the boudin (Cajun sausage balls) are not to be missed. Try mix-and-match dishes to create a meal full of your favorite Cajun flavors (you can order a side of red beans and rice with a po’boy, for example). Or you could just keep it simple and dig into the peeland-eat shrimp. $ L D dK
BIGSHOTS GOLF
1930 E. Kearney St., Springfield, 417-4273040, bigshotsgolf.com American. Come for the golf but stay for the good eats. There are great burgers (like the double smash burger with Hatch green chilis), pizza, wings and lots of shareable apps like the crispy red chili cauliflower. Don’t miss the fun cocktails. We loved the Bee Sting, made with tequila, agave, grapefruit, lime juice and jalapeño. So good! Be sure to stop by for brunch on the weekends. $$ BL D d
CAFE CUSCO
234 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688088, cafecusco.com
Peruvian. This menu is packed with dishes that are inspired by the cuisine of Peru and the Andes Mountains. A few standouts: the black bean quinoa burger with avocado spread, the Lomo Saltado, and a host of delicious entrees. Anything that includes the ceviche is a sure-bet. You can even order the Leche de Tigre appetizer to get your ceviche fix—it is a shot of ceviche juice with hot sauce and a chilled shrimp chaser. $$ L D d
Four Springfield locations; blaaacksheep.com Burgers. This swanky but comfortable burger joint is located in downtown Springfield, with outposts in Chesterfield Village and on East Sunshine Street. Chow down on the Good Yogi; two grass-fed patties are topped with white cheddar, lettuce, onion, pickle and baaad sauce—house-made Thousand Island dressing. Vegetarian? Black Sheep has you covered with its Hippy Jen. The shakes are great here too, with both kid-friendly options and grown-up versions with alcohol. $ L D
BLUE HERON FARM & BAKERY
206 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-701-1130
Farm-to-table. All of the freshly baked pastries and breads are amazing here. They do some creative things with pastry, from tender galettes filled with loads of luscious lemon curd to flaky pot pies filled with savory meats and veggies. We love the sausage roll served with pickles and whole-grain mustard, and the almond croissant is oh-so-dreamy. $ BL
CANYON GRILL RESTAURANT
at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, 2038 W. State Highway 86, Lampe, 800-225-6343, dogwoodcanyon.org
American. Located on the grounds of Dogwood Canyon nature preserve, the Canyon Grill Restaurant has a menu inspired by its surroundings. Try the bison burger made with bacon and caramelized onion topped with fire-roasted poblano peppers and pepper-jack cheese. Other great options include the trout cakes appetizer, the roasted asparagus salad and the short rib and grits entree. $–$$ L D d
CELLAR
417
15058 Business Highway 13, Branson West, cellar417.com
Bistro fare. With a great wine list and a huge deck overlooking the gorgeous Ozarks hills, this is a great spot to sip and eat with friends. A lot of the dishes have an Italian flare. Start with the hummus and whipped feta shareable to munch on with your friends, or order one of the entrees like cacio e pepe or confit chicken. $$–$$$ L D d
CELLAR+PLATE
2916 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-3681739, cellarandplate.wine
Wine bar. At Cellar+Plate you can get exceptional wine and tasty food in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Customers love the steak medallions and the seafood ravioli. And as you can probably guess from the name, Cellar+Plate has a great wine menu. $$ D d
CHATEAU GRILLE
415 N. State Highway 265, Branson, 417-243-1777, chateauonthelake.com
Contemporary American. Chateau on the Lake Resort Spa & Convention Center, Chateau Grille o ers gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake. And you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here. The restaurant focuses on upscale, seasonal cuisine, flying in fresh seafood and sourcing local ingredients for the award-winning menu. $$$ BL D d
CHERRY PICKER PACKAGE + FARE
601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800
Contemporary American. What do you get when you combine a co ee shop, bar, cafe and liquor store?
Cherry Picker Package + Fare. We’re big fans of the To Brie or Not to Brie sandwich—an Artisan Oven baguette topped with salted butter spread, thinly sliced ham, apricot preserves and a slice of brie. $ BL D d
CIVIL KITCHEN & TAP
107 and 222 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-501-8456, civilkitchenandtap.com
American. Specializing in upscale comfort food, Civil Kitchen and Tap draws inspo from Southern and Midwestern staples. Some favorite dishes include salmon with fruit pico de gallo or the gigantic onion rings. $ BL D d
DERBY DELI
2023 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-4066
Bistro fare. Located inside Brown Derby International Wine Center, this eatery features sandwiches, salads, a variety of cheese plates and salami plates, a hummus board and more. Don’t miss the Parisian sandwich with rosemary ham, President’s butter and Gruyere on a baguette. If you’re thinking, “But it’s just a ham sandwich,” you’ll be in for a very pleasant surprise. Don’t miss the tasty espresso drinks and sweet treats available at the co ee counter. $ BL D
DEVIL’S POOL RESTAURANT at Big Cedar, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-335-2777, bigcedar.com
American. Here you can enjoy a tasty meal while watching a gorgeous view of Table Rock Lake. For an appetizer, the smoked trout is fantastic, and so is the cornbread topped with cracked pepper maple butter and smoked bacon. The entrees change with the season and are always the perfect blend of rustic and upscale. For brunch, try the johnny cakes with fried green tomatoes for something with a southern flair. $$–$$$ BL D d
DOBYNS DINING ROOM
1 Opportunity Ave., Point Lookout, 417-690-2146, keetercenter.edu
American. College of the Ozarks students grow produce and raise meat to use in the restaurant, so the menu has a very farmto-table quality. There’s a fried green tomato caprese appetizer that uses pickled tomatoes and a housemade mozzarella cheese. For something hearty, try the pork belly shrimp and grits—it packs a bit of spice! Visit the on-site ice creamery a er for a sweet treat. $$ BL D d
TRY IT NOW
La Roux Bistro Is Here
We’ve been eagerly awaiting this restaurant for quite some time! La Roux Bistro is open on Commercial Street and is the newest brainchild of Joseph Gidman, who also brought us Cafe Cusco, Van Gogh’s Eeterie and Chabom Teas + Spices. We got to attend one of the soft opening nights, and this new C-Street gem lives up to the hype. The menu is full of classic Cajun fare with some extra French air thrown in. We tried the shrimp and grits on our visit, and the creamy cheddar polenta really stole the show. On the drink side of things, we highly suggest the Garden District Punch, which is a perfect summer sipper with the addition of elder ower tonic and honeysuckle syrup. On your rst visit, be sure to catch a glimpse of the Phenix Vault, a hidden Civil War-era structure they discovered during the remodel. You’ll nd creations by local artists scattered throughout all three levels, including a massive Chappell Roan mural that immediately greets you when you walk in the door. La Roux is truly such a magical little corner of 417-land.—Tessa Cooper
American. Serving elevated bar food and creative, hearty entrees, Downing Street Pour House is the brainchild of the award-winning barbecue slingers who own Gettin’ Basted. But there’s a lot more than just barbecue here. Must-try dishes include the giant Bavarian pretzel appetizer, the queso-smothered tamales and the blackened mahi mahi entree. Don’t miss the wagyu burgers. Bonus: It’s located in a tudor-style building in Hollister that’s absolutely packed with charm. $–$$ L D
FARMERS GASTROPUB
2620 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-864-6994, farmersgastropub.com
Contemporary British and American. The menu here features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and changes regularly with the seasons. The entrees are well priced and satisfying, like the Scotch eggs, the pan-roasted Scottish salmon, the panseared Icelandic cod or the shrimp and grits with spicy andouille sausage. There’s also a great selection of beer, and the burgers and fish and chips are always delicious. Keep an eye out for the excellent daily specials. On a nice day, sit on the patio. $$ BL D d
FIRE & ICE
2546 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8665253, oasisfireandice.com
Global cuisine. This spot (located inside Oasis Hotel & Convention Center) specializes in dry-aged steaks and certified Angus beef and has a delicious menu that changes with the seasons. Be sure to try the Fire & Ice Whiskey Burger with a Maker’s Mark whiskey glaze and crispy fried onions. Other tasty options include seared Japanese tuna loin, adobo-rubbed flat iron steak, red curry lamb chops, and more. Sit at the bar for a unique experience: You can watch cooks in the open kitchen while resting your drink on the ice bar. $$ L D d
Taste is Dining Guide
THE GARRISON
at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com
Shareable fine dining. Located beneath the Ozark Mill at Finley Farms, The Garrison features a dark and moody speakeasy vibe, a fine dining menu and a beautiful riverside patio. Try the mini pot roast, the forest panzanella salad or the delightful rosemary pound cake. Be sure to order one of the delicious cocktails—especially the refreshing Mill Pond that goes great with all the dishes we tried. $$$ D d
THE GROTTO
301 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-886-9600 gogrotto.com
West Coast–style
American. The menu is accessible to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. The super-indulgent warm blue cheese chips are a favorite appetizer. Customers like the burgers (especially the burger topped with lots of tangy blue cheese). One of our favorite things to order is the grilled salmon sandwich with a side of the sweet potato fries. The steak-gorgonzola salad is delish. $ L D d
HACKETT HOT WINGS
520 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-625-1333, hacketthotwings.com
American. Sometimes the only thing that will satisfy your cravings is a big plate of some seriously good chicken wings. The wings at Hackett Hot Wings are fantastic and we’ve heard rave reviews from readers and sta ers alike. There are 13 hot wing flavors (ranging from tame barbecue sauce to super-fiery hot sauces that pack a huge punch). But we’re partial to the delicious hot and honey sauce and the tasty house dry rub. Also try the sweet potato pu s and fried dill pickles $ L D
HARVEST RESTAURANT
8011 E. State Highway AD, Rogersville, 417-8303656, harvestmo.com
Farm-to-table. Dining at Harvest Restaurant is an experience like none other in 417-land. Owners, Craig and Tamara Von Foerster, have created a restaurant focused on hyper-seasonal, local cuisine. The menu is always in flux depending on the season. $$$ D d
American and more. It’s all about variety when it comes to the food at HyVee, so it’s a great place to find something for every member of your family— even the picky ones! You have a hibachi grill, a pizzeria, hearty comfort food, sushi, Chinese dishes and burgers. $–$$ B L D
JW’S KITCHEN
2111 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-306-9997
British and American Southern. This tasty spot comes from the owners of Farmers Gastropub, Andy and Misty Hampshire. It features excellently prepared brunch options, like biscuits with chocolate gravy (a southern American favorite) or a full English breakfast (black sausage included) and everything in between. For dinner, find comforting fare like roasted Scottish salmon. $$ BLD
MAMA G’S KITCHEN
2463 W. Sunshine St.; 210 S. Market St.; Springfield; mamagkitchen.com Southern. Mama G’s Kitchen started out with a spot at Metro Eats (the Sunshine Street location). Now, they’ve added a second outpost (the Market St. location). Come here for comforting dishes like fried pork chops, catfish, meatloaf and more. Sides are great too. $$ L D
METROPOLITAN GRILL
2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com Eclectic fine dining. Known for its delectable flash-fried spinach, this restaurant specializes in steaks and seafood. The salads are always fresh and delicious. And we love that the menu is always changing, giving us something new to be excited about—served in a familiar space. $$$ D d
MUNDOS LATIN KITCHEN & BAR
5493 N. 17th St., Ozark, 417-485-2160, mundoslatinkitchen.com
Latin. The menu here features dishes from many Latin cuisines, including Mofongo (mashed plantains with chicarron), lomo saltado, tostones, street tacos and tons more. We love the jicama taco with coconut shrimp. $$ L D
NEARLY FAMOUS DELI & PASTA HOUSE
2708 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8833403, nearlyfamous.net Deli and Italian. Regulars love the weekly specials: egg salad on Fridays, pear sandwiches on Thursdays and more. The tomato soup is fantastic, and it goes well with just about any sandwich at this friendly spot. It’s hopping at lunchtime, and the dinner hours o er a menu filled with tasty pasta dishes. $$ BL D
NEIGHBOR’S MILL CAFÉ & BAKERY
1435 E. Independence St., Suite 110, Springfield, 417-720-4162; neighborsmill.com
Deli and bakery. This full time bakery o ers a hearty menu packed with sandwiches, soups and salads. Don’t miss the honey pecan chicken salad, which comes on Bronze honey wheat bread. $ BL D
NOODLE 21 2001 State Highway 248, Suites 1 & 2, Branson Pan-Asian. Here you’ll find dishes from Korean, Japanese, Chinese and Thai cuisines, including a menu of freshly made sushi rolls. Try the hot stone bibimbap, pho and ramen soups, or the teriyaki bowls. $–$$ L D
OCEAN ZEN PACIFIC RIM RESTAURANT
4117 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8899596, eatoceanzen.com Asian fusion fine dining. Try Chilean sea bass or the macadamia nut chicken. We particularly love ordering the Hawaii Five-O sushi roll; with seared rare tuna and a pineapple salsa, it’s a tasty combination of savory, sweet, spicy and refreshing. Don’t miss the delicious steaks that are on the menu here, too. $$–$$$ L D d
THE ORDER at the Hotel Vandivort, 305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-8321515, theordersgf.com New American. Step inside the Vandivort Hotel and turn le for a downtown-Springfield dining experience not to be missed. The atmosphere is trendy but relaxed while the food is an elevated take on American cuisine prepared in a from-scratch kitchen. Brunch is excellent. $$–$$$ D
OSAGE RESTAURANT at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale, 1-800-2256343, topo herock.com American fine dining. Take in beautiful views from the dining room at Osage Restaurant, located at Top of the Rock, and enjoy fine dining that includes steaks and roasted chicken. The fried chicken is stellar, and the cocktails menu always o ers created and delicious options. $$$ B D
THE OZARK MILL RESTAURANT at Finley Farms, 802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, 417-210-6644, finleyfarmsmo.com Farm-to-table. Inside the beautifully restored Ozark Mill, you can order upscale farm-to-table meals that are made with ingredients grown right at Finley Farms or produced in their on-site apiary. Don’t miss the incredible risotto fritters appetizer made with artichoke, sausage, mozzarella and served over a pickled pepper aioli. $$–$$$ L D d
PALM & PADDLE GRILLE
2515 S. Campbell Ave., Ste. 400, Springfield, 417-605-7500, palmandpaddlegrille.com Caribbean. Everything has an island flair here. The coconut shrimp is a must-try, and so is the mango-habanero chicken. Their tasty jerk chicken is a filling option for the tiki tacos, along with jerk shrimp and carne asada. $$–$$$ L D d
PIER
28 PIZZA & GRILL
344 Nautical Circle, Kimberling City, 417-5271580, pier28pizzagrill.com American. Come for lakeside views and a menu filled with pizza, burgers, tacos and more. If you love fried pickles, get an order of the spicy pickle chips to share. And if you’re looking for something on the lighter side, the menu o ers tasty salad options. $$ L D
QUEEN CITY SOUL KITCHEN
1626 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-3798614, facebook.com/ QueenCitySoulKitchen Soul food. The menu changes from week to week here, but the o erings are always delicious. Find comforting fare like meatloaf, fried chicken wings, pork chops and more. Leave room for peach cobbler. $–$$ L D
REBAR KITCHEN & TAP ROOM
2902 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-5974569, rebar-taproom.com.
American. This spot features elevated takes on taproom fare. A few menu highlights include charbroiled oysters, duck bacon wontons, pizza, wings and more. There are several burgers, like the Hoglager BBQ Burger with Yuengling-infused barbecue sauce. $$ BL D
RED ONION CAFÉ
204 E. Fourth St., Joplin, 417-623-1004, redonioncafe.com
American and Italian The Tuxedo Chicken is a customer favorite. Diners also love the bacon-wrapped shrimp, the blackened tuna sandwich or Dave’s fried chicken salad. Try the BLT&A. (The A stands for avocado… yum!) $$ L D
ROSIE JO’S CAFE
1711 S. 15th St., Ozark, 417-581-6047
American. This place is a very popular hangout at breakfast time with great daily specials, and it also has great homemade pies, including surprising ones like gooseberry. The fried chicken is delicious at this eatery, and so are the fried dill pickles and the onion rings. $ BL D
RETRO METRO
2150 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7201708, eatretrometro.com
Contemporary American
This throw-back concept brings back decades of Metropolitan Grill’s greatest hits, including flashfried spinach and chicken spiedini. But there are original items on the menu as well, created by owner Chef Tiny himself. Come for classics and originals. During happy hour, come in fro wagyu sliders, crab cake sliders and more. Dishes are available via drive-thru, too. $$$ D
SHOW ME CHUY
1410 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715357, showmechuy.com
Italian-Mexican fusion. This fusion spot o ers Italian options like pasta carbonara, Mexican options like bright-and-fresh shrimp aguachile and combos of the both cuisines. For example, the penne poblano features rigatoni pasts in a poblano sauce with Mexican cheese. Brunch is served on Sundays. $ BL D
SPLIT SOCIAL KITCHEN
3027 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7557155, splitspringfield.com
American. Come for creative and beautifully prepared shareables and hearty entrees, all served a teeny restaurant space that packs a lot of good vibes. We love the amazing macaroni and cheese (get fried chicken with it as your optional protein). The menu changes with the seasons. $$ L D
ST. MICHAEL’S SPORTS BAR & GRILLE
301 South Ave., Springfield, 417-865-2315
American. The burgers are top-notch, and the huge salads topped with deliciously seasoned grilled chicken breast are a favorite (try the one with spicy Cajun chicken—yum!). Come hungry enough to order dessert because the cakes are stellar. $–$$ L D
TEA BAR & BITES
621 S. Pickwick Ave., 417-883-2462, teabarandbites.com. Bistro fare. Try the curry chicken salad or the yummy quiche with beautiful, flaky crust. We love any of the menu items that have a Mediterranean flair. The menu features plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. There are tasty baked goods available here too—each one is a good pick. $ BL D d
Habanero’s Mexican Restaurant + Cantina has become a local favorite, expanding to multiple locations across the Ozarks. E perience vi rant flavors, festive am iance, and authentic Mexican cuisine!
Discover all the savory delights at Leong’s Asian Diner, Springfield’s culinary gem. Enjoy authentic flavors, friendly service and a legacy of delicious Asian cuisine.
1540 W. Republic Rd., Springfield 417-887-7500 | leongsasiandiner.com
Taste is Dining Guide
VAN GOGH’S EETERIE
334 E. Commercial St., 417-344-0085, vangoghseeterie.com
Indo-Dutch. Dutch pancakes, chicken witlof and other Indo-Dutch and Dutch-inspired cuisine populate the menu at this Commercial Street hotspot from Joe Gidman of Cafe Cusco. We love the pancakes—especially the Farm Near Auvers topped with goat cheese, apples, honey, arugula and thyme. $$ BL D
VOLLEYBALL BEACH OZARK
1198 State Highway NN, Ozark, 816-838-1664, volleyballbeachozark.com
American. You can play sand volleyball year-round and grab dinner and drinks too. They o er chicken wings a few types of pizza, burgers and more. $–$$ D
WHEELHOUSE
307 S. Je erson Ave., Springfield, wheelhousefood.com. Asian fusion. The pad Thai and drunken noodle are longtime favorites, but the restaurant’s new location and menu also have some new dishes. The Banchan Fries topped with homemade kimchi are a musttry! $ L D
BARBECUE
BUCKINGHAM’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ
2002 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-886-9979, buckinghambbq.com
Diners love the ribs and the burnt ends at this classic barbecue eatery. We can’t get enough of the smoked salmon topped with horseradish sauce. $ L D d
CITY BUTCHER & BARBECUE
3650 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7201113, citybutchersgf.com
]Killer brisket, pulled pork and other favorites are sold first-come, first-served with a few simple but delicious side dish options. The smokehouse beans are delish, and the smoked chocolate chip cookies are super-fun. $–$$ L D d
CROSSTOWN
BBQ
1331 E. Division St., Springfield, 417-862-4646
Try the ribs or the brisket. The Big Pappa Dinner is a signature dish, and it features tons of meat including ribs, brisket and hot links. We loved the smoked chicken salad for something that feels healthy and indulgent at the same time. Try the crispy fried okra. $–$$ L D
GETTIN’ BASTED
2845 W. Highway 76, Branson; 606 W. Mount Vernon St., Nixa; gettinbasted.com
Come here for award-winning barbecue in all your favorite varieties: brisket, ribs, pulled pork and more. The wagyu burgers on the menu are fully loaded, and the apps game is strong with homemade pimento cheese, barbecue nachos and more. $–$$ L D
HEADY BAR-B-QUE CO.
573 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-732-4227, headybbq.com
This spot o ers KC–style barbecue. Among stellar ribs, brisket and more perfectly prepared meats, you can find unexpected dishes with a barbecue spin: nachos, salads, a burrito. The sandwiches are musttry. $–$$ L D
PAPPY’S PLACE
943 N. Main Ave., Springfield, 417-866-8744
Be sure not to miss the pork spare ribs with Pappy’s barbecue sauce or the barbecue nachos at this long-running Springfield institution. (Extra perk: We’ve heard people say that Pappy’s sells the very coldest beer in town.) $ L D
WHOLE HOG CAFÉ
224 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8680042; 2731 N. Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-7204759 wholehogsgf.com
Customers love the pulled pork sandwich. There’s a delicious sauce for every taste bud at this eatery (we like the spicy ones, but the mustard base is delicious, too), and we love the extra-indulgent potato salad. $ L D d
BREAKFAST
BILLY GAIL’S CAFE
5291 State Highway 265, Branson, 417-338-8883; 1882 James River Road, Ozark, 417-582-2600; billygailsrestaurant.com
Billy Gail’s in Branson has been a beloved breakfast hotspot for ages. The Ozark location serves dinner on the weekends. Come for massive pancakes and other breakfast fare. $ BL D
THE BRUNCHEONETTE
424 N. Main St., Joplin, 417-781-3447, thebruncheonette.net
We love the creative takes on eggs Benedict that we’ve found at The Bruncheonette, whose menu changes weekly but is always interesting. Don’t miss the poutine or the carrot fries. $ BL
FIRST WATCH
2946 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8890601; 3103 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-6337094; firstwatch.com
Go traditional with a plate piled with crispy bacon, eggs and toast. Or order something more creative like the lemon-ricotta pancakes. $ BL
GAILEY’S BREAKFAST CAFÉ
220 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-866-5500
The sweet potato hash browns are super-delish here, and we highly recommend ordering them in place of the traditional hash browns. We also love The Bear Hug: biscuits and gravy, choice of meat, two eggs and hash browns or sweet browns. Gailey’s is known for breakfast, but the restaurant also has a tasty lunch menu. $ BL
THE EUROPEAN
105 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-986-4646, theeuropean417.com
The pastries are picture-perfect and taste just as good as they look. The cardamom buns are luxurious comfort food that taste incredible with a hot cup of co ee. And the breakfast and lunch dishes are inventive and superbly executed. We love the mousse cakes, the macarons and the strawberry pancakes— or the shakshuka when we want something savory. Don’t miss the homemade black pepper ginger ale. It’s such a delightful treat! $ BL d
SLEEPY OPOSSUM CAFE
1423 E. Cherry St., Springfield, Ste. 101, 913730-6224, sleepyopossumcafe.com
This darling spot serves creative, classic and always delicious breakfast fare. We are obsessed with their hashbrown quiches, and the homemade biscuits topped with everything seasoning are to die for. Any baked sweet is a dream here too, especially the creative cakes. $ BL
VILLAGE INN FAMILY RESTAURANT
Multiple 417-land locations, villageinn.com
Try the breakfast skillets, eggs Benedict and, of course, the super-tasty pies. We love the crepes and other sweet breakfast o erings, too. And of course, don’t miss grabbing a slice of pie. $ BL D
CHINESE
BAO BAO CHINESE BISTRO
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite A104, Springfield, 417-877-7505
This little spot in Chesterfield Village has a chef who used to own a restaurant in Shanghai, so there are several authentic items on the menu. Try the salt-and-pepper pork or the hot pot. $ L D
CHINESE CHEF
3029 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield; 1731 S. Enterprise Ave., Springfield, 417-889-2433
Owner Joe Fong has been serving Springfield for over 40 years, and some of his customers’ favorite dishes include Kung Pao chicken, made-from-scratch cashew chicken, crab rangoon and egg rolls. $ L D
Taste is Dining Guide
CORNER 21
1730 E. Republic Road, Ste. A, Springfield, 417-771-5666, corner21sgf.com
This restaurant’s menu o ers a large variety of authentic Chinese dishes, including several Szechuan-style meals. Try the braised pork belly with rice noodles, ribeye and enoki mushrooms in a curry broth or spicy Szechuan fish. $ L D d
LEONG’S ASIAN DINER
1540 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-887-7500
The Leong family serves its original cashew chicken at this tasty eatery, among lots of other yummy stu . The crab Rangoon are especially delicious here, and we like to dip them in the bold and spicy mustard sauce. The egg rolls are a classic, made from scratch with a peanut butter flair.
$–$$ L D
LUCY’S CHINESE FOOD
Multiple locations, lucyschinesefood.com
Don’t miss the cashew chicken combo. If you’d rather eat something mega-spicy than something fried, order the hot chicken. It’ll have you reaching for your water glass with every bite. We love the kids meals here, too. They are the perfect little portion of tiny diners, plus they come with a spring roll, a crab rangoon and a drink. $ L D
TRIPLE EIGHTS
1710 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417-832-8889
While you can find Springfield Chinese favorites like cashew chicken on the menu at Triple Eights, you can also dig into more traditional Chinese fare. The mapo tofu is a must try, with its rich and spicy sauce. The Sichuan Maocai stew is worth a taste too. $ L D
A GLOW-UP
Kingdom Just Got Bigger
Kingdom Co ee on Lone Pine just expanded! They’ve taken over the suite next door, and it’s now a sleek seating area. I checked it out this past weekend, and it’s got beautiful pops of green that mirror the great wooded view outside. Check it out and treat yourself to an iced lavender sage latte.—Tessa Cooper
COFFEE SHOP FARE
ARCHITECT COFFEE
1604 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7715030; 1300 E. Battlefield; architectco eeco.com
This Instagram-chic coffee shop on Springfield’s south side o ers a bright and cozy atmosphere with warm drinks and hearty food, to boot. The breakfast burritos are stellar and so filling. We love the seasonal drinks that change every so o en. $ BLD
BIG MOMMA’S COFFEE & ESPRESSO BAR
217 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8659911; 1010 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, 417-868-4157; bigmommasco ee.com
This spot o ers co ee, espresso and blended frappes. But there is more on the menu than just drinks. Be sure to try the super-delicious sandwiches that are served here, too. $ BL D d
THE BLACK LAB COFFEE CO.
545 E. Elm St., Republic, 417-647-5125, facebook. com/theblacklabllc
This casually canine-inspired co ee stop o ers drinks like the Labbuccino or the Black Lab, which includes to ee nut and chocolate, or the Goldendoodle, a signature combination of caramel and brown sugar. $ BL
CAFE CUBANO
3650 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8877777, facebook.com/ countrygirlsespresso
Aside from all of the co ee drinks, a must-try item here is the Cuban sandwich, served pressed on Cuban bread. Cafe Cubano’s’ signature is its Cafe Con Leche with scalded milk. We also love the guava pastry filled with tropical sweetness. $ BL D
CLASSIC ROCK COFFEE
1900 West Sunset Street, Springfield, 417-881-7625, classicrockco ee.com
This co ee shop o ers espresso drinks with rock ‘n’ roll–inspired names. Try the Sweet Emotion latte (with chocolate and caramel) and a ham and cheese pu pastry breakfast pocket to start your day. $ BL D d
THE COFFEE ETHIC
124 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-8666645, theco eeethic.com
Try the single-origin coffee, brewed one cup at a time, or any of the creative and delicious seasonal drinks. The cappuccino is fantastic (truly one of the best we’ve ever had), and the shop also serves wine, cra beers on dra and a small selection of quality liquors. The food game here is strong too. $ d
DANCING MULE COFFEE COMPANY
1945 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-883-5114, dancingmuleco ee.com
The mochas are great here—chocolatey but not too sweet. Dancing Mule also does a really good authentic cappuccino that’s made just right. Try the Peanut Butter Fandango Frappe. $ B
ECHELON COFFEE
2407 N. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-3742739, echelonco ee.com
This sunny co ee shop (with a drive-thru!) has excellent espresso drinks, fun seasonals, drip co ee, pour-over and more. Don’t miss the delish breakfast and lunch fare too. There are excellent biscuits and gravy on the weekends only, and options like smoothie bowls, breakfast burritos, sandwiches and salads every day of the week. $ BL D d
EURASIA COFFEE & TEA CULTURE CAFE
445 E. Commercial St., 417-720-1949, culturecstreet.com
This co ee roaster with a mission also serves some tasty fare in its Culture Cafe. In addition to carefully cra ed cups of co ee, there are excellent lunch items. We love ordering the miso caramel latte too. $ BL D d
KINGDOM COFFEE
211 S. Market Ave., Suite 100, Springfield, 417-3501234; 2896 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield; kingdomsgf.com
The co ee menu features classic espresso drinks, like cappuccinos, macchiattos, mochas and more. We love the classic cortado the most, and the not-toosweet and super-creamy iced matcha latte is truly delicious. The seasonal drinks are always a treat here, too. If you can get your hands on it, be sure to order a cheddar and chive scone (and ask them to warm it up!). $ BL D d
MUDHOUSE COFFEE
locations in Springfield and Ozark, mudhousecoffee.com
The co ee is always fantastic here, at Springfield’s OG downtown co ee shop. Plus, Mudhouse also o ers a wide variety of loose-leaf teas. The cheesecake is a must-try. $ BL D
THE PRESS COFFEE & JUICE BAR
2710 S Glenstone Ave, Springfield, 417-771-5950
This whole-foods cafe o ers co ee, fresh juice and organic dishes with ingredients from local market vendors. A big draw here is the Mexican-Korean fusion menu, featuring gogi nachos, kimchi fried rice and street tacos. The gogi quesadilla with kimchi is our favorite—we can’t get enough of it. $ BL D d
URBAN GROUNDS COFFEE & PLANT LAB
5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, urbangrounds417.com
This spot specializes in drinks made with locally roasted co ee. Try classics like lattes and cappuccinos, or opt for a flavored options (like salted caramel to ee) or a botanical latte made with things like beetroot, turmeric and more. When you’re hungry, munch on a loaded toast. This co ee shop doubles as a plant store. $ BL
The Workshop’s menu includes classic co ee and tea o erings plus super-sized suped-up toasts (the avocado toast is fully loaded and fully delicious). Don’t miss the delicious creamy chicken salad; it’s excellent. As for drinks, we love The Workshop Shake, a shaken iced latte with vanilla bean syrup, cinnamon and honey. $ BL d
DELIS
THE ALMIGHTY SANDO SHOP
208 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-422-0912
The sandwiches on the menu here are excellent, with options like The Mighty Burg (smash patties, garlic-bacon mayo, white American cheese). Bonus: This spot has a walk-up window. $ LD d
J. PARRINO’S QUEEN CITY DELI
1647 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-8871148, queencitydeli.com
This spot serves pasta, soups, salads and some super-delicious sandwiches. Don’t miss The Burnes (beef tenderloin on garlic bread) or the Italian beef sandwiches (order them wet). $ L D
MYTHICAL ‘WICH
113 E. Main St., Branson, mythicalwich.com
This sandwich shop comes from the owners of another Branson favorite: Gettin’ Basted. It o ers a large selection of bold lunch and breakfast sandwiches, like the Holy Hand Grenade topped with pastrami hash and a fried egg. There are also soups, salads and desserts. $ BLD
THE SUB SHOP
1721 E. Seminole St., Springfield, 417-8873804; 456 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318077
The Fighter Pilot sandwich comes fully loaded with salami, pepperoni, cheese, banana peppers, lettuce and sub sauce. Be sure to try the sandwich specials. Hit an ATM on the way there, because The Sub Shop is cash only. $ L d
DESSERTS
ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD
Multiple 417-land locations, eatandys.com
Frozen treats. Don’t miss the rotating seasonal toppings (our sta ers love the apple pie and pumpkin pie in the fall). Try the Ozarks Turtle sundae, a classic concoction with caramel, hot fudge and toasty pecans. There are several sundae and concrete options, plus root beer floats and Italian ice pops. $ d
BUTTERMILK
1458 E. Cherry St., Springfield, instagram. com/buttermilkrules
Ice cream. Pastry chef Kyle Davis has brought madefrom-scratch ice cream to the Rountree neighborhood—and there’s even a walk-up window. Fun flavors include options like blood orange sorbet, buttermilk ice cream with homemade short bread, and more. $ d
HURTS DONUT
1231 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-3680279; 1580 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-5983474; wannahurts.com
Donuts. Outside-the-box toppings cover these super-delicious doughnuts, available 24 hours a day. A customer favorite is the maple-bacon bar. $
LUCKY CAT BOBA TEA & TAIYAKI
3424 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-351-3136
Boba tea. There is a he y menu of bubble tea options (we like the passionfruit mojito bubble tea that comes with fresh lime and mint leaves) plus sweet snacks like mitarashi dongo skewers, red bean–filled mochi, and darling slices of cake. $
PARLOR DOUGHNUTS
1109 E. Battlefield Road, Ste. A, Springfield, parlordoughnuts.com
Donuts. This spot is known for their “layered donuts,” which have a unique textures, are super-indulgent and come in a dozens of toppings-laden flavors. Our very favorite is the coconut cream filled donut. You can also get keto-friendly, vegan and gluten-free donuts, great espresso drinks, and savory breakfast items. $
B L D
PRAIRIE PIE
621 South Pickwick Ave., Springfield, prairiepie.com
Pie and cookies. Prairie Pie makes stellar all-buttercrust pies in flavors that range from classic to inventive. The caramel apple pie is an elevated take on a classic and is quite popular. Any of owner Eleanor Taylor’s pies made with rhubarb are superb. You can get savory pot pies and slices of quiche too. Prairie Pie is located inside Taylor’s other business storefront, Tea Bar & Bites. $–$$
4:30–11 p.m.
Taste is Dining Guide
SOCIETEA
1653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7204094, facebook.com/ societea.
Boba tea. Bubble tea is the name of the game at this authentic spot where the matcha milk tea and the matcha roll cake are both must-try o erings. We love that you can customize the sweetness level of your drinks. $
ST. GEORGE’S DONUTS
Multiple 417-land locations; stgeorgesdonuts.net
Donuts. Lots of luscious doughnuts are made fresh daily here. We love the glazed blueberry and the oh-so-fresh chocolate cake donuts. $ d
XURROS CAFE
431 S. Je erson Ave., Suite 172, Springfield, 417-737-9144, Churros. The Spanishstyle churros here are just as pretty as they are delish, with fun toppings like cinnamon-sugar, dulce de leche glaze, chocolate and almonds, rainbow sprinkles and more. You can also order espresso drinks, plus a few savory food items like breakfast burritos. $
DINERS
BILLY BOB’S DAIRYLAND
1901 W. 76 Country Blvd., Branson, 417-337-9291
Burgers. There are 24 flavors of fried pies here, cheeseburgers (pro tip: add grilled onions), footlong hot dogs with chili and cheese and more. $ L D
CASPER’S
937 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-2277377, caspersdiner.com Chili. This local favorite serves overflowing bowls of chili and a few other diner options (like burgers and hot dogs). Try the chilicheese fries. $ BL D
DRUFF’S
331 Park Central East, Springfield; 417-7191719, yumdru s.com
Grilled cheese. Dru ’s brings glorious cheesiness to diner fare with a menu of grilled cheeses, soups and creative sides. For a little heat, try the Good Doctor, made with cheddar, cream cheese, bacon and jalapeño, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a Nutella and strawberry grilled sando— it’s nuts. $ L D
IGGY’S DINER
2400 Grand Ave., Carthage, 417-237-0212, facebook.com/IggysDiner Diner fare. This retro spot has so many nostalgic vibes and is a popular stop along Route 66. Come for hearty fare like stackedhigh burgers with fries, creatively topped French toast, diner breakfast faves (i.e. eggs, hashbrowns, all the good stu ), tall milkshakes and more. $ L D
THE SQUEEZE INN
404 RB Road, Stockton, 417-276-6302
Burgers. Order the Squeeze with Cheese, a ⅓-pound griddle-cooked burger that’s smothered in so much shredded cheddar cheese that it overflows the patty and creates a “cheese skirt” of crunchy cheddar. $ L D d
INDIAN
INDIA CLAY OVEN & GRILL
2005 W. Highway 76 Country Blvd., Suite 209, Branson, 417-973-0044, indiaclayovenandgrill.com
Come to this yummy little spot on the Branson strip to indulge in some tasty Indian fare. We loved the karahi lamb and the mushroom aloo matar. Stop by for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays to take advantage of the tasty bu et. $$ L D
INDIA PALACE
1908 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-771-5270
The huge menu here o ers Indian favorites and fun flavors you may not have tried. We love the pani puri appetizer, the samosa chaat and the lamb rogan josh. Be sure to pop in for lunch on the weekends, when they o er a stacked bu et. $$ L D
NAWAB’S INDIAN CUISINE TANDOOR BAR
3654 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-844-5050
Find all your favorite classic Indian dishes here (the tandoori chicken and the makhni paneer are both excellent) along with some others you might not have seen around town before. We love the ras malai dessert. $$ L D
TAJ MAHAL INDIAN RESTAURANT
1250 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-719-4573
You can find all your Indian favorites here. There is a variety of naan bread (and it’s so, so so and perfect), many types of curry and rice dishes and fun desserts like rice pudding and gulab jamun (donuts soaked in syrup). We are obsessed with the lamb rogan josh and the chicken jalfrezi, and the bhindi masala (an okra dish) is a favorite too. $$ L D d
ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE
311 South Je erson Avenue, Springfield, 417-351-4400, zaykaspringfield.com
At this downtown Springfield spot, the vegetable korma, chicken tikka masala and malai ko a are a few of our faves. If you’re new to Indian food, try the pre-set combo meals that feature a lot of di erent flavors. For dessert, you can’t beat a bowl of warm gulab jamun sweet pastry balls. $–$$ L D d
ITALIAN
AVANZARE ITALIAN DINING
3240 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-567-3463,avanzareitaliandining.com
Pasta is always a hit at Avanzare, a longtime Springfield favorite. Ravioli dishes are not to be missed. Veal dishes are top-notch at this Italian eatery, but they’re only served once or twice a week. $$$ L D d
BAMBINO’S CAFÉ
1141 E. Delmar St., Springfield, 417862-9999; 2810-D E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-8814442; bambinoscafe.com
This little Italian eatery serves hearty helpings of pasta, like the Poppa that comes with penne pasta, Italian sausage, mushrooms and a spicy tomato-cream sauce. Another fave: the portobello mushroom ravioli with a to-diefor sauce. $ L D d
BRUNO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007
The bucatini with panchetta, chili oil and basil is a must-try pasta dish. Get it with the arugula salad with pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. The ever-changing specials always sound extra-tasty, like the recent o ering of shellfish arancini. $$$ D
GILARDI’S
820 East Walnut Street, Springfield, 417-862-6400, gilardisonwalnut.com
Owner James Martin focuses on handmade pasta and fresh ingredients at this charming little Italian restaurant that makes a wonderful date-night spot. Don’t miss the amazing meatballs. $$$ D d
NICOLA’S RISTORANTE
3631 East Sunshine Street, Springfield, 417-886-3700, nicolasspringfield.com
This restaurant serves a delicious sea bass. Try the lumache: fresh snails sauteed in garlic butter and baked with Parmesan cheese. Gluten-free pasta and pizza are available. $$–$$$ D d
NONNA’S ITALIAN CAFÉ
306 South Ave., Springfield, 417-8311222, nonnascafe.net. The seafood lasagna is a must-try dish. The Tuscan pappardelle ragu is excellent, and the pesto linguine is a delight. For dessert, we particularly love the delectable chocolate torte and the rich and delicious tiramisu. $$ L D
PICCOLO
107 West Aldersgate Drive, Nixa, 417-3747291, eatpiccolo.com
When you’re craving indulgent Italian fare, Piccolo delivers. Start things o with the Italian Nachos (fried wonton chips, homemade Alfredo sauce and toppings), or the Balboa balls, juicy meatballs stu ed with mozzarella and finished with goat cheese and marinara. Leave room for dessert because you won’t want to miss the incredible cannolis. $–$$ L D d
SALVATORES FRESH RISTORANTE ITALIANO
1932 W. Retail Lane, Ozark, 417-485-3838, salvatoresfresh.com
The menu here is packed with handmade pastas. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of them making the fresh pasta. The menu also boasts everything from a fried artichokes appetizer to a Tuscan T-bone steak entree. Plus there are burgers, pizzas and sandwiches too. $–$$ L D d
The Return of Ebbets Field
We couldn’t be more excited to report this news! Ebbets Field has new owners, and they’ve got grand plans to reopen the business. Jerrad and Sydney Davis closed on the purchase of Ebbets Field at 1027 E. Walnut Street earlier this month, and they are excited to bring this local gem back to its former glory. We reached out to them to learn more about their plans, and we think you’re going to like what’s in store. The couple both worked at Ebbets Field when they were in college, so they have a soft spot for the original menu (the menu before it was revamped in 2022) and want to keep it similar. They are still in the early stages of planning, but we will update you when the Davises get a better idea of their opening timeline. We just couldn’t wait any longer to share the news with you!—Tessa Cooper
JAPANESE
ARIAKE SUSHI & ROBATA
1110 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, facebook. com/arikake.spfd
This restaurant from the owners of Haruno, Kai and Karai o ers excellent nigiri and sashimi, as well as small plates and tapas. You have to try the delicious tuna cigars or the hot rock dish that uses wagyu beef. For dessert, the matcha crème brûlée is our favorite. Be sure to order from the excellent sake menu. $$–$$$ L D d
CRAFT SUSHI
251 E. Sunshine St., Suite 116, Springfield, 417319-5887, facebook.com/ cra sushi
At Cra Sushi, you’re in control of your meal as you customize your own sushi and poke bowls. And the best part: It won’t break the bank. Try a salad bowl topped with marinated tofu, asparagus, mushrooms, jalapenos, edamame and spicy wasabi sauce. It’s our favorite combination! Anything with the raw salmon or the spicy pork is always a hit as well, and there are a ton of topping and veggie options. $$ L D
KARAI RAMEN + HANDROLL
640 W. Republic Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-319-5225
This spot takes ramen seriously, and it shows. The Karai Ramen with a flavorful and spicy house-made broth is incredible, and we like to get it with pork and a seasoned so -boiled egg added. Don’t miss the tasty hand rolls or the steamed buns filled with shredded pork, spring onions and teriyaki sauce. $ L D
NAKATO JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE
2615 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8817171, nakato.com
HARUNO JAPANESE SUSHI BAR
3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-8870077, harunosushi.com
The Oh My God roll and the Sex and the City roll are trademarks here. If simple nigiri is your style, you’ll love the tuna sampler. Be sure to venture o the sushi menu and try some of the delectable entrees as well. Don’t miss the bibimbap or the fresh mango-jalapeño ahi tuna entree. $$– $$$ L D
HINODE JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE
4301 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-877-1777
Come to see the show at the hibachi grills. Hinode is known for wonderful hibachi meals with perfectly cooked proteins and all the extras: rice, stir fry noodles, veggies and that luscious seafood sauce. Don’t forget to try the sushi. $$ L D
KAI
306 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8320077, kaia erdark.com
This lounge-like spot has great sushi. Don’t miss the restaurant’s black cod or sea bass entrees with delicious wasabi risotto. They are just as impressive as the sushi rolls! $$–$$$ L D
SAKURA
3230 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-882-8000
There’s a solid sushi menu (the Sam’s Roll never disappoints if you like a roll with a lot going on), and you can order a sushi donburi box to really get some bang for your buck if you prefer to keep your sushi meals simple and refreshing. The bento boxes are great too. $$ L D
SUSHI VILLAGE
1440 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8901016, facebook.com/ springfieldsushivillage
Performance-style hibachi dining is what Nakato is known for. And they are super-good at it! A little entertainment plus a great meal. All of the sushi is top-notch here as well. Don’t miss the Jenny Roll, a favorite. $$ L D
NIJI SUSHI
3938 S. Lone Pine Ave., Suite 100-B, Springfield, 417-851-1707
In addition to a large variety of sushi rolls (we love the Cherry Blossom Roll and the Spicy Yummy Roll), this menu also boasts rainbow-bright cocktails and seven types of ramen soups. Come with friends so you can share and sample lots of rolls. $$ L D
OMO
JAPANESE SOUL FOOD
2215 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield
The ramen and udon soups are some of the tastiest items on the menu here, and they come with lots of fun toppings. We like to order it with spicy broth and either chasu pork or chicken katsu for the protein. There are also sushi rolls, bento boxes, takoyaki and fun desserts like mitrurashi dango. $$ L D
KORIYA
4121 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-882-0077
This spot serves createyour-own bibimbap dishes, and you can choose between chicken, beef bulgogi, tofu and shrimp for your protein. One of our favorite dishes is the japchae, made with slippery and sweet stir fried potato starch noodles and lots of veggies—it’s fun to eat and so satisfying. $ L D d
KUICK NOODLES
3165 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-901-1803
This cozy sushi spot has a warm date-night atmosphere with cherry blossoms and plants around every corner. All the sushi is fresh and flavorful, but some custom creations pack fun ingredient combos. $$ L D
KOREAN
BAWI KOREAN BBQ
4121 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-8862777, bawikbbq.com
Bawi Korean BBQ brings an authentic Korean dining experience to Springfield, where you’ll pay a flat fee of $25 for an all-you-caneat meal. You cook the meat yourself on tabletop grills. $$ D
GOLDEN KOREAN RESTAURANT
1406 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-832-1093
The beef bulgogi and dolsot bibimbap are best sellers here. We also love the fried dumplings and kimbop. Try the tasty kimchi fried rice or spicy octopus stir fry. If you’re in the mood for something really comforting on a cold day, opt for the kimchi chigae. You also get a variety of Korean side dishes alongside your meal, which adds a lot of fun and flavor to the meal. $ L D
Get the Korean ramen shop experience here, where you can choose from a variety of instant ramen and make it yourself using self-serve machines. You can add several toppings, grab a tasty drink or dessert, order a side of dumplings or a steambed bun, and more. $ L D
MEDITERRANEAN
CRAVE
MEDITERRANEAN CAFE
1111 E. Republic Road, Ste. 164, Springfield, 417306-9749, cravemediterraneancafe.com
There’s so much good stu on the menu here; shareable dips like hummus and baba ganoush, shawarma, kabob, gyros, falafel and more. Don’t miss the manakeesh with sumac chicken. $$–$$$ L D
GREEK BELLY
320 E. Walnut St., 417597-3382, greekbelly.com
We love everything we’ve tasted here! Try a tasty pork or chicken gyro topped with creamy tzatziki. Our favorite, though, is the loukaniko wrap: orange-spiced pork sausage in a pita with spicy feta dip, fresh veggies and French fries. For dessert, order the ice cream topped with baklava and honey-cinnamon-citrus syrup. $ L D
Taste is Dining Guide
THAT LEBANESE PLACE
338 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-536-6677
We love the stu ed grape leaves appetizer, served with a delicious tahini dipping sauce. There are plenty of options for diners with vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free diets. For a super-delicious dessert, don’t miss the baklava made with Lebanese rose water. $–$$ L D
MEXICAN
CABOS BONITOS GRILL & CANTINA
3637 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-2213490, cabosbonitos.com
Come to this east Springfield spot for all your Mexican favorites plus some fun and unique dishes like the fried avocado appetizer: battered avocado halves filled with your choice of meat. $$ L D
Cantina Laredo is a great option if you’re exploring Branson and have a hankering for Mexican food. Located on Branson Landing, it has a great view of the choreographed fountain and of Lake Taneycomo and the blu s across the water. The menu varies, and we love the salsas. $$ L D
CASA BELLA MEXICAN CUISINE
4610 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-7715031; 300 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417885-9097
The menu is huge at Casa Bella, which has two Springfield locations. Try the tasty ceviche, any of the street tacos, or the spicy camarones a la diabla. The Battlefield location is huge, so you can bring your whole crew for some Mexican eats. $$ L D
CESAR’S OLD MEXICO
2627 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-881-8252
Indulge in authentic Mexican food at incredibly reasonable prices. We love the birria taco, which is filled with succulent shredded beef. Don’t miss the Salvadorian pupusas stu ed with beans and cheese; they are delightful. The carnitas torta is also excellent. $ L D
HABANERO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT + CANTINA
Locations in Springfield, Republic, Carthage and Joplin; habanerosmexicancantina.com
Orginally in Carthage, this popular Mexican restaurant has expanded to three other Ozarks cities. Don’t miss the tender quesabirria tacos with rich consomme for dipping. The nachos, enchiladas and guacamole are hits too. While you’re there, try one of the hand-cra ed margaritas. $$ L D
IGUANA ROJA
107 W. Church St., Ozark, 417-485-8585; 12051 MO-13, Kimberling City, iguanaroja.net
There are delicious margaritas at this little eatery located on the square in Ozark. Don’t miss the one made with jalapeños; it has a kick that’s so much fun to drink. The chips are excellent here, with a yummy seasoning sprinkled on top of every one. $–$$ L D
This spot serves delicious Mexican options like guacamole made tableside, fried plantains, quesabirria tacos, spicy Yucatan shrimp (our fave!) and lots more—including plenty of classic faves like enchiladas, quesadillas and more. $$ L D d
MEXICAN VILLA
Multiple 417-land locations, mexicanvilla.net
This spot is a favorite among longtime Springfield locals, and it is known for its sweet sauce served with tortilla chips. Also popular is the Sancho Enchilada Style. $ L D d
OXO BAR & GRILL
2550 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3069808, oxospringfield.com
Try modern takes on Mexican street food, like pork belly street tacos, chorizo burritos, chilaquiles, aquachile, elote and more. Come on Saturday for Latin Night for Latin dancing. $$ BL D d
PRIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
3662 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8901212; 5557 N. 21st St., Ozark, 417-582-2776; primasmexicangrill.com
Diners love the pollo abovado, an 8-ounce chicken breast that’s grilled and topped with homemade chorizo, white queso and tomatoes. Try the asada tacos. $–$$ L D
SEÑOR JULIAN
MEXICAN BAR & GRILL
3405 E. Battlefield Road, Suite 100, Springfield, 417-240-2120
This restaurant packs big flavors, with a menu that features traditional Mexican soups, handmade-to-order flour tortillas, quesabirria tacos, quesadillas, fajita baked potatoes and more. The tacos especiales are a favorite. $–$$ L D
TEAM TACO
1454 E. Cherry St., Springfield, teamtacosgf.com
This tiny cafe serves major flavors in its taco menu. We’re fans of the Globetrotter pork belly taco, and we love to try The Ringer (a frequently changing special). $ L D d
TINGA TACOS
308 W. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8318007, tingatacossgf.com
This downtown taco shop is open late slinging shells of its wildly creative combinations. We are partial to the Fu Yu made with super-flavorful marinated tofu. The build-your-own nachos are a must-try too, with loads of topping options. $ L D
TORTILLERIA PERCHES
1601 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-864-8195
This tiny little authentic Mexican restaurant makes its own tortillas and chips fresh every day. Try a Mexican soda, a traditional Mexican soup or a tamale when you visit. $ BL D
CHERI’S HAPPY PLACE located at Metropolitan Grill, 2931 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417889-4951, metropolitan-grill.com Wood-fired. It’s all about perfect pizza paired with champagne at this spot. Cooked in a wood-fired oven, this pizza is something like a mix between New York–style and Neapolitanstyle. Try the Hotter Than Jacquez pizza with smoke mozzarella, bacon, pepperoni and jalapeños. $$ D
GARBO’S PIZZERIA
ARRIS’ PIZZA
1332 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-881-7260, arrispizzaonline.com
Greek-influenced. Thincrust pizzas have a Greek flair at Arris’ Pizza. Be sure to order the Athena (a pizza made with feta, pepperoni, olives, mushrooms and green peppers) if you want to try one that bursts with flavor. $–$$ L D
THE BIG SLICE
1450 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-7201928; 4126 S. Kansas Expy., Springfield, 417720-4108; thebigslicespringfield.com
New York–style. You can get big New York–style brick oven pizza by the slice here. Or buy a whole pie if you prefer, but either way make sure to try to the chicken bacon ranch pizza. We love the creamy spinach pizza too, when we’re in the mood for a white pie. The gigantic pepperonis are the same ones they use in the pepperoni pinwheels. $–$$ L D
2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Suite C101, Springfield, 417-8839010, garbospizzeria.com St. Louis–style. If you love a loaded St. Louis–style pizza, try the toppings-packed Grandiose. Or try the Bavarian pizza for something a little different; it is topped with Canadian bacon and sauerkraut. $–$$ L D d
MASO PIZZA BAR
3653 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-720-1047
Wood-fired. Maso Pizza Bar is owned by Nicola Gilardi and located just a few door down from his other restaurant, Nicola’s Ristorante. And just like at Nicola’s, everything on the menu is delish. We can’t wait to try options like the Nic Rise and Shine, Italian Stallion and vegetarian-friendly Monica Healthy pies. $$ D d
Wood-fired. This taproom and micro-distillery is the first outpost of Springfield Brewing Company, and its menu o ers wood-fired pizza cooked in a brick oven. The Bourbon BBQ pizza is topped with chicken, smoked mozarella, bourbon barbecue sauce, pickled onions and pickled jalapeños. $$ L D d
PIZZA
PAPPO’S PIZZERIA
Multiple locaitons; pappospizzeria.com
Stonebaked. Try the spicy chicken Cholula pie topped with a mixture of red sauce and olive oil, grilled chicken marinated in Cholula sauce, garlic, mozzarella cheese, red onions, cilantro. $–$$ L D
THE PITCH PIZZA & PUB
2924 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-368-0277
Hand-tossed. With a menu full of pizza, pastas, salads, sandwiches and pub fare and a killer beer selection, there’s something to please everyone. We love to build our own pizza with Alfredo sauce and a ton of mushrooms. $$ L D
PIZZA HOUSE
312 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-881-4073
Thin-crust. This restaurant has been a tradition in Springfield for more than 50 years, and the pizza they serve is super-thin and cut into super-tiny pieces. It’s a classic that’s not to be missed. $ L D
SLAP BOX PIZZA & WINGS
2932 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, 417-886-3333
Brick oven. There are a bunch of creative pizzas on the menu here, with sourdough crust that’s the perfect ratio of chewy to crunchy. Wings are tasty here too. Gluten-free crust is available. $$ L D d
PUBS & BARS
BEFORE & AFTER BREWING
2940 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, beforeandaerbrewhouse
There are excellent beers, espresso drinks and cocktails on the menu here, along with zero-proof cocktails. To eat, get a loaded hot pretzel or a tinned fish board with all the accouterments. $$ L D
BEST OF LUCK BEER HALL
313-B S. Je erson Ave., Springfield; 417-522-9009; bestofluckbeerhall.com
This downtown beer hall combines backyard charm with killer food and more beers than you can count. If suds aren’t your thing, try a seasonal cocktail or one of the dra alcoholic punches. The food menu includes flavorful spins on cookout favorites, like juicy cheddarwurst brats and kimchi-spiked fried chicken sandwiches. $$ B L D d
CLEAR LOUNGE
At Hilton Branson Convention Center, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417243-3433
Just across the street from Branson Landing at the Hilton Branson Convention Center is Clear Lounge, a great place to grab a cocktail with friends. This spot is home to tasty food, good music and drinks. D d
GEORGIA MAC’S
1440 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3195770, georgiamacs.com
The food is hearty and comforting with a southern flare at this south Springfield eatery. You can find loaded burgers (like the one topped with jalapeño bottle caps), fried catfish, country fried steak and more. $ $ L D
HARRY’S COCKTAIL
LOUNGE & BAR
at Big Cedar Lodge, 612 Devil’s Pool Road, Ridgedale, 417-339-5200, bigcedar.com/dining
This chic cocktail spot is located downstairs at the Worman House. It’s a great place to stop by for a drink (they have excellent cocktails and a great wine and whiskey selection) or small plates and appetizers. We loved the short rib sliders and the strawberry-infused Paper Plane cocktail. $–$$ L D d
Taste is Dining Guide
THE GOLDEN GIRL RUM CLUB
137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-4255162, thegoldengirl.com
This rum bar on the southwest corner of Park Central Square (with a great people-watching patio space) serves up handcra ed cocktails and a made-from-scratch, eclectic, internationally inspired menu. As for drinks, everything on the menu is reliable well-done. Our favorite: Mr Guava Lava, which is both fruity and spicy. $ L D d
GOOD SPIRITS & CO.
1424 E. Cherry St., Suite A, Springfield, goodspiritsandco.com
The owners of Good Spirits & Co. are behind some great local food and drink concepts (like The Golden Girl Rum Club, Sweet Boy’s Neighborhood Bar, Cherry Picker Package & Fare and Best of Luck Beer Hall), and their chic headquarters on Cherry Street is home to fun food-anddrink events. $$–$$$
J.O.B. PUBLIC HOUSE
319 E. Walnut St., Springfield, job417.com
This spot is known for its excellent bourbon selection and elevated bar food. Longtime favorites include the Full Ride burger, the Codi Brah falafel sandwich, and the pepperoni pizza balls. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, try the O ce Crush, made with Rittenhouse Rye. $$ L D
LINDBERG’S TAVERN
318 W. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8688900, lindbergsbar.com
Forget about basic bar food. This storied watering hole o ers creative takes on hearty comfort food classics. The burgers are delicious, the specials are always creative, and the Sunday brunch reliably delish. $ L D d
THE ROYAL
1427 E. Cherry St., Suite B, Springfield, 417-351-3029, theroyalmusichall.com
This tiny and beautiful spot serves well-cra ed cocktails, bottled cocktails and finger foods like warm olives or rosemary and bitters glazed nuts. Be sure to visit when there is live music; the intimate setting makes for a great experience. $ D
SPRINGFIELD BREWING COMPANY
305 South Market Avenue, Springfield, 417-832-8277, springfieldbrewingco.com
Try the fish and chips paired with the beers that are brewed on-site. Also delicious are the burgers and the mac and cheese. Live music. $$ BL D d
SWEET BOY’S NEIGHBORHOOD BAR
310 South Ave., Springfield, 417-7194224, sweetboysbar.com
Come for pinball, a laidback atmosphere and a small but very well done cocktail list. For something more like dessert, try the HellBoy, a frozen Irish co ee with a Fat Boy’s ice cream sandwich. $
VINO CELLARS WINE SHOP & LOUNGE
2137 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-7731985; 15038 Business Highway 13, Branson West, 417-773-1985, vcellars.com
Small plates, snacks and tapas make up the menu at this comfortable spot. $ L D
W.F. CODY’S
3138 E. Sunshine St., Springfield, 417-887-8083
The cheeseburgers are a specialty at this restaurant, and they are enormous. Don’t miss the ham and cheese sandwiches, another customer favorite. $ L D
SEAFOOD & FISH
CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL
815 W. Seventh St., Joplin, 417-206-3474, crabbysjoplin.com
This Joplin hot-spot serves some fantastic seafood, and we’ve enjoyed everything we’ve tried there. The Chilean sea bass is a specialty. Try some of the small plates, like portobello mushroom fries, steamed mussels or a lovely charcuterie board. There are also some great entree salad options. $$–$$$ L D
ROCKBRIDGE RESTAURANT
4297 County Road 142, Rockbridge, rockbridgemo.com
This fishing lodge is home to a restaurant that specializes in all things trout. The super-fresh fish dishes are made with trout that are caught on the property. We love the trio appetizer, which comes with trout salad, smoked trout and a trout dip that is so craveable! For an entree, try the blackened trout dish. There’s also an on-site bar, The Grist Mill located in a historic former riverside mill. $ BL D
VANTAGE ROOFTOP LOUNGE & CONSERVATORY
260 E. McDaniel St., Springfield, 417-8511768; roo opvantage.com This roo op bar at Hotel Vandivort has a breathtaking view of downtown Springfield and even o ers dining igloos. Cocktails are refreshingly creative and classically well-done, and the menu of shareables and snacks bring the concept of bar food up several notches. Try something from the super-fresh, beautifully prepared raw bar. The pickled shrimp and scallop ceviche are two of our faves. $$ d
WHITE RIVER FISH HOUSE
5 Bass Pro Drive, Branson, 417-243-5100, whiteriverfishhouse.com
The freshwater fish is great, especially the almond-crusted trout or cornmeal-fried catfish. Try the salt and pepper calamari for an appetizer, or dig into the seasonal smoked fish dip. You can also find non-fish dishes like burgers, fried chicken an barbecue ribs on the menu too. $$ L D d
STEAK
CHAR STEAKHOUSE & OYSTER BAR
1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-823-8383
Try favorites like bacon-wrapped dates, chicken Bijan, Waygu steaks, lamb shank and fish. Raw oysters, ceviche and bone marrow pique the appetite as starters. Be sure to sample Char’s cocktails, or something o the extensive wine list. $$$ D d
FLAME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR
314 West Walnut Street, Springfield, 417-862-4444, flamesteakhouse.com
The restaurant specializes in dry-aged steaks that are truly delicious. Don’t miss the lobster macaroni and cheese (we’re serious; you have to try this stu ). The desserts are always divine, and we can’t get enough of the appetizer menu. Head to Red Room downstairs for wildly delicious happy hour burgers. $$$ D
JIMM’S STEAKHOUSE & PUB
1935 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8865466, jimmssteakhouseandpub.com
We love the tasty steaks here. They are always prepared perfectly. The stu ed Peppadew pep-
pers are a must-try appetizer; trust us, you need to taste those things! The peppers are stu ed with cream cheese, wrapped in bacon and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. And if you love a good salad bar, Jimm’s has one of the best. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the o -menu smothered rib-eye for a little decadence. Desserts are always a treat here as well. $$–$$$ L D
KOBE CLUB
2058 S. Glenstone Ave., Springfield, 417-8696947, facebook.com/ KobeClubSteakhouse
The menu here features wagyu and Japanese A5 steaks, along with a variety of seafood dishes inspired by New Orleans and South Texas. The Gulf Flounder Opelousas features blackened flounder and Creole cream sauce with shrimp, crab and oysters. $$$ LD
LEVEL 2 STEAKHOUSE
The Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, 200 E. Main St., Branson, 417-243-3433, level2steakhouse.com
This Branson restaurant specializes in steaks, but its gooey butter cake dessert is gaining a following. Try the Kansas City strip steak and the egg noodles with cheese. If you like to start your meal with greens, the Caesar salad is a must-try; it comes topped with delicious fried anchovies. Also, don’t miss the fresh Hawaiian ahi tuna served on a Himalayan salt block. $$$ B D
Dry-aged prime steaks are served in this restaurant’s fine-dining atmosphere. The sides are delicious too, with options like garlic
potato puree and tru e creamed corn. Be sure to try the charcuterie board with all the usual goodies plus some house-made jam. A er your steakhouse dinner, hop over to the casino for some gaming fun. $$ D
WILDER’S STEAKHOUSE
1216 S. Main St., Joplin, 417-623-7230, wilderssteakhouse.com
Come to Joplin’s Wilder’s Steakhouse to find steaks in all sizes and varieties, all of which are certified black Angus beef and free of hormones and antibiotics. The restaurant’s menu also has a variety of other items like seafood and chicken. $$$ D
TEA ROOMS
BETH’S BAKE SHOPPE & TEA ROOM
1645-D W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8665533, bethsbakeshoppe. com
Try a chicken salad sandwich—served on cinnamon raisin bread. And we love the spinach salad served with warm bacon vinaigrette, and the gigantic couscous salad loaded with fresh veggies and Feta. $ L
MS. GILMORE’S TEA ROOM AND VINTAGE SUITCASE
211 E. Commercial St., Springfield, 417-8867000, robinsvintagesuitcase.com
The daily specials and desserts are the star of this tearoom and pastry shop on Commercial Street. There is always a quiche and soup of the day, plus desserts. $ L
SPRING CREEK TEA ROOM
107 S. Third St., Ozark, 417-582-1331
The homemade desserts are to die for. Be sure to
order them quickly before they run out—like you might want to order them before you order entrees! Don’t miss the veggie sandwich, the strawberry soup or the chicken salad.
$ L
THAI
EVERYDAY THAI
220 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7700147, myeverydaythai. com
This spot serves consistently delicious Thai dishes. Some of our favorites are the tom kha gai soup, the comforting yellow curry with chicken and the mango sticky rice dessert.
$–$$ L D
RAMA THAI CAFÉ
1129 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-865-3204
This restaurant, located inside a charming old house on Historic Walnut Street, features a menu full of delicious Thai tastes in a cozy atmosphere with a shady patio out back. Start your meal with the avocado spring rolls. Then dig the curry noodles, or order one of the spicy curry entrees. $–$$ L D d
TAI KITCHEN
114 E. Main St., Branson, 417-544-0581, taikitchenbranson.com
This family-owned spot serves fresh flavors in dishes like the Tai Beef Salad, Thai fish cake appetizer, and several types of Thai soups. Don’t miss the great curries they have here too!
$–$$ L D
THAI THAI CUISINE
1615 W. Highway 76, Branson, 417-334-9070, thaithaibranson.com
Thai Thai Cuisine o ers really great Thai food and a sweet sta . The panang curry is delicious, and it’s served on a little bed of fresh spinach. $–$$ L D
New Nepalese Eats in Republic
Is it just us, or does it seem like there’s always a new, delicious place popping up in Republic as of late? The Himalayan Grill & Bar is the latest of these, serving up a fusion of Nepalese, Indian and Indo-Chinese cuisine. They hosted their grand opening this past weekend, and we spent yesterday drooling over pictures of their dishes and menu descriptions. Even the beverages look incredible with o erings like mango lassi (a traditional Indian drink made with mango and yogurt) and masala tea. They’ve got samosas, curries and plenty of noodle dishes on the menu as well. We’re most excited to try the Paneer Kadai, which is a semi-dry paneer curry dish with bell peppers and onion.—Tessa Cooper
THAI EXPRESS
2113 W. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-8650101, 417thaiexpress.com
When you visit this friendly spot, don’t miss the Magic Noodle, mango curry chicken and volcano shrimp dishes. They are all tasty. The green curry is delicious, with a sauce so divine you might just want to drink it. $ L D
THAI GARDEN
3454 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-8895280, thaigardenspringfield.com
There are so many great Thai options here, like nam tok beef, shareable bowls of noodle soup, stir fry and curry options and lots more. Get the fried bananas or Thai custard for dessert. Fun little extra: They bottle their Thai iced tea and Thai iced co ee. $ L D
THAI PALACE
3250 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-7715640, thaifoodpalace.com
The menu here is a mix of Thai food along with some Chinese and Japanese dishes. Try the green curry, fresh spring rolls, or tom kha khai soup. And you have to pair it with a sweet Thai iced tea. $–$$ L D
lent beef pho. The chicken pho is pretty good too! Really, anything with noodles is worth a try, and the menu has several clear noodle soups and egg noodle soups in addition to the pho selection. Our favorite order: Start with fresh spring rolls with peanut dipping suace, then order the barbecue pork vermicelli bowl. $ L D d
PHO KIM
3433-C South Campbell Avenue, Springfield, 417-883-9999, phokimspringfield.com
THAILAND STATION
1730 E. Republic Road, Springfield, 417-3501001, thailandstation.net
Find all your favorites (a variety of curries, stir fried noodle dishes and soups) plus some surprises like crispy duck and stir-fried pork belly. We’re super-excited about the salad options, like the som tum (papaya salad) and the laab (ground chicken salad). When it’s in season, order the mango sticky rice dessert. $ L D
VIETNAMESE
BAMBU
1338 E. Battlefield Road, Springfield, 417-881-9881
The pho is a specialty here. You can add spice, herbs, jalapeños and sprouts to customize it. (Our favorite: Use all of the herbs, a couple of jalapeños and a squirt of sriracha.) Don’t miss the refreshing bun bowls too! The one made with lemongrass beef is a flavor bomb. $ L D d
HONG YEN
2926 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-3513915, facebook.com/ hongyenrestaurant. Come to Hong Yen when you’re in search of excel-
Here you can fill up on Vietnamese staples like pho, spring rolls, a variety of bahn mi sandwiches and more. The chicken fried rice is extra crispy, and the chicken pho is just as tasty as the classic beef variety here. We love the fresh spring rolls too. If you aren’t afraid of heat, try the spicy beef noodle soup. $ L D
PHO SAIGON
2640 E. 32nd St., Joplin, 417-627-9966
Come to this spot to indulge in fresh spring rolls, vermicelli noodles, and big helpings of pho with lots of fresh veggies on the side. You can also order boba tea with toppings like tapioca pearls, co ee jelly, egg pudding, popping boba and more. $ L D
SKULLY’S
1427 E. Cherry St., Springfeild, 417-3680949, facebook.com/ skullys417
This spot specializes in non-traditional takes on Vietnamese banh mi sandwishes. Try the one made with oyster mushrooms, or the marinated lemongrass beef option. Also on the menu: ramen, chicken wings, wok bowls, miso-butter noodles for the kiddos, lots of vegetarian-friendly dishes and more. $$ L D
Midwest Goodbye the
HEY, WE HAVE A FEW MORE OZARKS MOMENTS TO SHARE WITH YOU BEFORE YOU GO.
Ready to Rendezvous
Guests came decked out in red for Springfield Ballet’s Rendezvous en Pointe: Behind the Curtain fundraiser. Proceeds benefited the ballet and its future growth campaign. Turn the page to read about this and other community events.
From le to right: Linda & Chuck Fugate
Continued on p. 120 >>
People Pics e MidwestGoodbye
Rendezvous en Pointe:
Behind the Curtain
Springfield Ballet’s seventh single-color spring event, Rendezvous en Pointe: Behind the Curtain, rolled out the red carpet for supporters to The Creamery Arts Center for an evening of music, performances and conversation highlighting the Ballet’s need for expanded space and the launch of its future growth campaign.
Date: May 29, 2025
Benefiting Organization: Springfield Ballet
Location: The Creamery Arts Center
Sponsors: 417 Magazine, Mid-Missouri Bank, Community Foundation of the Ozarks, Gri n Industries, MediantHealth, La Quinta Inn, History Museum on the Square, Parkcrest Dental Group, Rachel & Jordan Heinz, Palm & Paddle, Ozarks Creative Productions, glOh Studio, The Royal, Arkifex Studios, Elegant Linens + Rentals, Miles Boyer, Springfield Ballet Guild
Sponsors: 417 Game Sidekicks, 417 Magazine, 5C gamers, Gillioz Theatre, Kern Insurance Services, Overlord Games, Rich and Cartmill Inc, SandraKing Investment Center Advisor Group, Zen Solutions
Tremendicon
Tremendicon is a nonprofit creator convention focused on education, collaboration and encouragement, while giving back to the community. It includes special programing for writers, artists, game designers and makers, along with activities like pottery, woodworking, comic books, multimedia, film, theater and music, plus activities for kids.
1. Wyatt Archer, Amber Baldwin
2. Roy & Kathy Cook
3. Rich Elijah, CJ Collins
4. Ethan & Danielle Bolte
David Stanfield 6. Andrew & Shantel VanZyll 7. Ali Pool, Mayor Je Schrag, David Stanfield
Giving back to the community is a top priority for 417 Magazine. Each month, we support local nonprofits that help 417-land thrive. We proudly support events by charities and organizations that create Good Times for a Great Cause.
Giving back to the community is a top priority for 417 Magazine. Each month, we support local nonprofits that help 417-land thrive. We proudly support events by charities and organizations that create Good Times for a Great Cause.
HOT FLASH HAPPY HOUR
e Midwest Goodbye
WHERE’S417?
Bring 417 Magazine on your next adventure—whether you’re traveling or exploring close to home.
1. Bologna, Italy Andy and Roxanne Trosper, Kimberlin and Garrett Trosper, Gaye and Brett Butler and chef Elisabetta
2. Belgrade, Serbia Xavier Joseph, Catherine Johnen and Marie Johnen
Kyle Wiley Pickett serves as director and conductor of the Spring eld Symphony.
BY JORDAN BLOMQUIST
“WHAT I WANT TO HAPPEN WHEN YOU COME TO THE SYMPHONY IS THAT YOU LEAVE A LITTLE BIT DIFFERENT PERSON THAN YOU WERE WHEN YOU CAME IN.”
QWhat’s your journey been like from early music days to now?
I’ve always been a musician. My mom’s a music teacher, so I started on piano really early. Then I played ute, I was in the band, I was in the marching band, and I was in the youth symphony.
The new season for the Springfield Symphony kicks o in September. What can audiences expect?
It’s going to be just such a great year. Every year I present a theme, and part of the reason I do that is just because that gives people something to grab onto. The theme this year is called Binge Worthy, and we’re kind of playing o the idea that every concert and every piece is some sort of really compelling story. And those stories then have characters and plots and the music is telling those stories.
What do you hope people walk away with a er a night at the symphony?
What I want to happen when you come to the symphony is that you leave a little bit di erent person than you were when you came in. You’ve taken a little bit of time out of your life, you’ve put down your phone, you’ve stopped worrying. You and 2,000 other people have decided to sit together and be elevated—be uplifted—by something great.
Visit 417mag.com to read our extended interview with Kyle Wiley Pickett.
