Savor The Ozarks

Buckle up for a trip down memory lane! 🚗 This week on Savor the Ozarks, Joy is taking a break from restaurateurs to talk history with one of the most knowledgeable people in town—John Sellars, Executive Director Emeritus of the History Museum on the Square. With the massive Route 66 Centennial Celebration approaching, John takes us on a "drive" along the Mother Road in Springfield, sharing stories of the legendary spots that paved the way for the 417’s food scene. You'll hear the backstory of how Springfield became the birthplace of Route 66 and so many other fascinating stories, including the hilarious reason why Red’s Giant Hamburg ended up with such a unique name and why the Steak ‘n Shake at St. Louis and National is more historic than you think. Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy is celebrating a major milestone this week with Patti Wingo, who is ringing in 26 years of Simply Delicious Catering! From her early days as a personal chef to managing massive events for over 3,000 guests, Patti shares the "simply delicious" backstory of how she built her culinary empire.Whether she’s providing mobile bar services or fresh meals for a local gym, Patti’s passion for problem-solving and unique flavor profiles shines through every dish. This episode dives into her favorite Springfield "happy place" for a burger, her massive collection of over 1,000 cookbooks, and her secrets for keeping a team innovative and organized during the busiest wedding seasons. It’s a perfect look at the heart behind one of the 417's most iconic caterers! 🥗🍰🌈Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy is heading to the "Bread Box" to chat with Jeff Seifried about the heart and hustle behind Mother’s Brewing Company. From his days at Drury University and serving on City Council to taking the reins of this iconic Springfield brand, Jeff shares how a 100-year-old bakery became a powerhouse for craft beer distribution.You’ll hear the story behind their "tattoo" style logo and why the backyard was specifically designed as a safe, fun spot for families to hang out together. Jeff also spills the tea (or beer!) on their taproom-tested pizza program, the legendary Mother’s Little Helper, and the local history that inspired the "Cobra Scare" brew. It’s a perfect look at how Mother’s continues to pour passion into the 417! 🍕🤱Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy is sitting down with a true Springfield icon, Nick Russo, at the corner of South and McDaniel! This week, we’re diving into the incredible backstory of how a Jersey boy from Atlantic City ended up becoming a staple of the Ozarks. Nick shares the hilarious story of getting accepted to college in 1965 after nearly 30 rejections and how he built legendary local hangouts like the Iron Horse, Pop’s Malt Shop, and Ebbets Field. You'll hear all about the heart behind St. Michael’s, where his wife Jenny is the "straw that stirs the drink," baking those life-changing banana cakes and 16 other flavors fresh every day. Plus, Nick opens up about his 28 years as an educator, his father’s secret meatball recipe, and why he never goes for a run without his favorite music. It’s a beautiful conversation about faith, romance, and the "God-given uniqueness" that makes Nick a local treasure! 🏃‍♂️🍝✨See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get ready to feel the luck of the Irish! ☘️🌈 Joy is hanging out at the iconic Finnegan's Wake to get the scoop on 20 years of Irish tradition in downtown Springfield.She chats with owner Clayton Baker about everything from their historic 1800s building to the "non-serious" trivia nights that have been running for nearly two decades.You'll hear all about their legendary St. Paddy's Day "Drunken Bruncheon," featuring 12-hour Guinness-braised corned beef and the massive "Full Finnegan" breakfast plate. It's the perfect way to kick off your spring festivities! 🍻✨🍳​​​​​​​Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A hidden Italian gem with Chicago roots, celebrity stories, and recipes passed down for generations. 🍝🍕 Joy heads to Mr. Gilberti’s Place near Branson to sit down with Susan Gilberti and current owner James “Andy” Tolliver. The restaurant started with a Chicago pizza background and has grown into a beloved Ozarks institution with deep-dish pizza, homemade pasta, and recipes that have stood the test of time. Along the way, you’ll hear incredible stories about the restaurant’s history, how Andy grew up learning in the kitchen, and the famous faces who’ve stopped in over the years including Andy Williams, Tony Orlando, Clay Cooper, and more. It’s a warm conversation about food, second chances, and the kind of neighborhood restaurant that keeps people coming back for decades. ❤️ Pull up a chair and Savor the Ozarks. Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Jimm Swafford, owner of Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub. Jimm has always been in the food industry at some capacity, and when the opportunity came to have a steakhouse of his own, he seized it! Voted one of 417's finest restaurants, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub offers the finest foods you would expect from a prestigious Award-Winning Steakhouse. Hear more about Jimm, his story, and those legendary doors NOW on Savor the Ozarks!Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's and Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if you could order anything on a menu and never worry about allergies again? 🥹✨Joy sits down with Katrina “Kat” Hagan of The Safe Spoon, Springfield’s newest completely allergen-free café.The Safe Spoon is free from the FDA’s top 9 allergens: milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, and sesame. It’s also celiac-safe, Alpha-Gal safe, free from mammal, gluten, dyes, rice, and coconut. And there is zero cross-contamination in the kitchen. Zero. 💛Kat shares how her lupus diagnosis, her husband’s Alpha-Gal journey, and her bakery Sensitively Sweet led to creating a space where families can finally eat out safely together.Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's and Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to keep a local restaurant rocking for more than 30 years? 🔥🍗​​​​​​​Joy grabs a seat at Coyote’s Adobe Café with owner Dave Bauer, who opened the doors in 1992 with one simple goal… survive longer than the place before him. Safe to say, he did a little more than that. 😉Dave shares how Coyote’s became a Springfield staple, from dialing in those famous wings to hosting unforgettable wing competitions, KC Chiefs celebrations, and fundraisers that bring the whole community together. It’s a fun conversation about grit, loyalty, and what it really takes to stay in the game for three decades in the restaurant world. Pull up a chair. You’re going to love this one. 🍻Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's and Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

✨🍷 Get ready to savor one of the most indulgent weekends in the Ozarks. 🍽️✨​​​​​​​Joy Robertson heads to the breathtaking Big Cedar Lodge to sit down with Mark Stoner, Vice President of Food and Beverage, for a mouthwatering conversation about the legendary Celebration of Taste. Now in its 32nd year, this winter tradition brings together world-class wines, jaw-dropping dishes, cozy Ozarks vibes, and guests who return year after year just for this experience. From lobster crudo and wagyu tenderloin to wine seminars, fireside elegance, and that unmatched Big Cedar hospitality, this episode is basically a front-row seat to the most delicious party of the season. 🥂🔥If you love food, wine, stories behind the scenes, and a little Ozarks magic mixed in, you’ll want to pull up a chair and listen all the way through. Trust us, you’ll be hungry by the end. 😍🍴Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's and Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered where people in the Ozarks go to get dressed up, sip a classic cocktail, and dance the night away? 💃🕺✨ Joy Robertson steps inside the Stardust Ballroom with Louie Michael, the voice and heart behind one of Springfield’s most unique nightlife spots. From big band nights and social dances to surprise concerts and unforgettable New Year’s Eve parties, Louie shares how Stardust became a place where generations come together to dance, connect, and feel a little glamorous again ✨🎶 They talk about the magic of live music, why the dance floor matters, and how Stardust has grown into much more than a ballroom. It’s also an event space, a community hub, and a place where friendships are formed and memories are made. Joy and Louie also dive into his incredible life story, from a career in entertainment to his passion for mental health advocacy and helping others through some of life’s hardest moments ❤️ Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's and Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fresh-baked pastries, European café vibes, and the kind of food that makes you slow down and savor every bite 🥐☕💙Joy heads to Commercial Street to sit down with Jennie Boosey, the heart and hands behind Blue Heron Farm & Bakery, to talk about how a small farm near Marshfield turned into one of Springfield’s most beloved bakery stops. From flaky croissants and legendary lemon galettes to brioche donuts that sell out fast, Jennie shares how everything is made from scratch, why quality ingredients matter, and how her time living in England helped shape the Blue Heron experience.They also dive into bakery life behind the scenes, why pastries are a true labor of love, the magic of baking classes that sell out in minutes, and what exciting new lunch plans are coming next 🥖🍋✨Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's and Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy Robertson pulls up a chair at PaPPo’s Pizzeria on East Battlefield and sits down with the man behind the pies, Chris “PaPPo” Galloway. What starts as a conversation about pizza quickly turns into a story about family roots, Sunday Italian dinners, made-from-scratch food, and how one pizza recipe turned into a growing franchise that started right here in the Ozarks. You’ll hear how PaPPo’s dough was inspired by baking bread with his dad, why real ingredients matter so much to him, and how PaPPo’s became a go-to spot for everyone from college students to families to people navigating food allergies. Along the way, Joy dives into crowd favorites, unexpected menu gems, and the famous brown butter cookies that have their own fan club. 🍪 It’s warm, personal, and full of food love. Pull up a seat, grab a slice, and savor this one. 🍕💛See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when one of the Ozarks’ most loved Italian spots is forced to shut its doors overnight? Joy heads to Piccolo in Nixa to hear the story straight from owner Steve D'Arpino. 🍝❤️ After a terrifying accident forced the restaurant to close, Piccolo is officially back open and better than ever. Steve shares the emotional story behind reopening, his family’s deep roots in the Ozarks restaurant scene, and how Piccolo became a local favorite. You’ll hear about the dishes people can’t stop talking about, including mozzarella-stuffed meatballs, corn brûlée creations, comforting Italian classics, pizza, vegan options, and desserts that regulars swear by. It’s a heartfelt look at resilience, community support, and why Piccolo continues to hold a special place in the 417. Pull up a chair, pour a glass of wine, and savor this one 🍷✨ Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's and Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The holidays are here, the guests are coming, and the food pressure is real 🎄🍽️  Joy Robertson heads to the SGC Foodservice Culinary Center to talk party food with executive chef Aaron Gregory, the guy who sees holiday food trends before they hit your table. They dive into shareable favorites, charcuterie boards that never go out of style, sweet heat flavors like cranberry chipotle and mango habanero, and easy ways to upgrade classic dishes without stressing yourself out. From Brussels sprouts glow ups to speed scratch cooking, menu trends, and why January is actually one of the busiest food planning months of the year, this episode is packed with ideas you will want to steal. Consider this your permission slip to keep it simple, get creative, and enjoy the party 🎉See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Step inside College Street Café and you’ll feel it immediately… the nostalgia, the Route 66 magic, and the kind of comfort food that tastes like home. 🍳🍔 This week, Joy sits down with owner Mary Lou Meierotto, who stumbled into running this beloved Springfield diner completely by accident and ended up carrying on a legacy that dates back to the 1950s. They talk about everything that makes this place special, from hand-patted burgers and the chili-and-grilled-cheese combo everyone raves about, to the regulars who’ve been coming here for decades and still insist on sitting at the counter. It’s small-town comfort, bighearted hospitality, and classic Route 66 Americana all rolled into one cozy booth. Pull up a stool… this one will make you smile. 🙂See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If the holidays have you buried under cookies, casseroles, and expectations, Joy Robertson and food writer Juliana Goodwin are here with the gift of simplicity. In this festive video episode, Juliana shares her go-to five-ingredient recipes, including her melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter chocolate chip cookies, a unbeatable Mediterranean layer dip, and a flavor-loaded feta roasted pepper spread. She even brings a holiday cranberry margarita into the mix. 🍹 They swap stories, laugh about holiday kitchen chaos, and talk about why letting go of perfection can make your season brighter AND tastier. A cozy, delicious conversation that’ll make your holidays feel so much easier. 🎁✨See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

🎄✨ It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like... J.HO.HO.B.! ✨🍸 If your Christmas spirit needs a little boost, step inside J.HO.HO.B., the holiday pop-up bar inside J.O.B. Public House on Walnut Street, where Christmas has officially exploded (in the best way possible). Joy Robertson chats with Nicole Brown, co-owner of the downtown favorite, about how this one-of-a-kind Springfield spot turned into a full-blown Christmas wonderland, complete with ceiling-to-floor tinsel, hundreds of ornaments, photo ops, themed cocktails, and even animatronic Star Wars Santas. Learn how this joyful transformation started as a heartfelt tribute to their late friend and former owner, and how it’s grown into one of the most talked-about holiday experiences in town. With drinks like the “That’s It, I’m Not Going” peppermint espresso martini, “Krampus in Cancun” margarita-in-an-ornament, and “Santa’s Balls” shots, it’s merry, cheeky, and totally unforgettable.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping tea in a storybook, Ms. Gilmore’s on Springfield’s Historic Commercial Street is your invitation to do just that. 💕 Manager Karen Butts shares how this pink, chandelier-filled gem became the enchanting spot locals can’t stop talking about. With its Alice in Wonderland feel, homemade soups, sandwiches, and quiches, and desserts like the legendary lemon meringue bars, it’s easy to see why. 🫖 The community spirit on C-Street makes it even sweeter, with neighboring shops cheering each other on and collaborating for events like Sip & Shop. Whether you’re coming for tea, cake, or a little escape from reality, Ms. Gilmore’s promises pure delight and a touch of Wonderland whimsy. 🐇💗See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Chaz Koeppen and Matt Gann, the heart and soul behind Cafe B-29 in Ozark, where they’re serving up more than just amazing food—they’re honoring heroes. With Veteran’s Day around the corner, Chaz and Matt share the incredible story of how their WWII veteran grandfathers inspired them to open a cafe that celebrates the American spirit. Get a taste of the cafe’s nostalgic, diner-style vibe, complete with military memorabilia donated by patrons, and hear all about their commitment to fresh, homemade meals (including their award-winning jalapeño popper burger!) They also dive into their community efforts and some memorable moments spent with veterans here in the Ozarks. Soak in all that and more, RIGHT HERE on Savor the Ozarks!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When life gave him every reason to quit, Chef James Cardelli turned it into fuel. Growing up in California with a rough start and no clear path, he found purpose in a Springfield kitchen, starting as a dishwasher at Jimm’s Steakhouse before working his way into the world of Michelin-starred dining in Chicago.In this Savor the Ozarks episode, Joy Robertson sits down with James as he shares how persistence landed him in elite restaurants and how he’s now gearing up to help Billy Parisi open a new spot in Crown Point, Indiana. James’s story is one of grit, growth, and finding light in the heat of the kitchen. It's proof that where you start doesn’t define where you’ll end up. 🍝✨ Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!        See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nestled beside a row of towering grain silos, The Table is not your average restaurant... it’s a love letter to creativity, faith, and family. Sisters Sheri Perkins and Renee Textor built this stunning space from the ground up, turning a forgotten lot into one of Springfield’s most beautiful dining spots.Inside, you’ll find crystal chandeliers, cozy fireplaces, antique finds, and food that feels like home but tastes like vacation. From bourbon peanut butter pancakes 🥞 to their famous toast flight 🍞 and Cajun chicken pasta 🍝, every dish has a story.What started as a leap of faith is now a community sensation, overflowing with guests just days after opening. The Table proves you don’t need restaurant experience to build something extraordinary; just a little grit, grace, and sister magic. 💫 Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson steps into the apocalypse... a delicious one! She’s at Branson’s Walkers, the zombie-themed walking taco joint dreamed up by owner William Doughty. 🧟 After 12 years in timeshare sales, William traded contracts for chips and chili, creating a one-of-a-kind spot where tacos come in a bag and every bite is a little bit wild. From the Crawler to the Chipocalypse, these walking tacos are served with a side of creativity and maybe a few creepy surprises. Joy and William talk zombies, business dreams, and Walker’s craziest feature, the Mutation Station, where brave guests spin a wheel to eat scorpions, crickets, or even Carolina Reaper peppers. (Yes, Joy takes the challenge!) It’s equal parts spooky and savory, and it’s only in Branson… for now. Hear how William’s plans for Springfield, KC, and beyond might just make the Midwest crave brains... and tacos! 🌮See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson pulls up a barstool at Jo’s Gather'n Place, a Springfield spot that’s been serving up home-cooked comfort and hometown connection for 25 years.Owner Jolene Eddington thought she’d only run the place for eight years... but when your restaurant becomes “like Cheers… with food,” it’s hard to walk away. From Meatloaf Mondays to Walleye Wednesdays and Steak Fridays, Jo’s is all about homemade favorites, friendly faces, and community stories that span generations.You’ll meet the tight-knit staff who’ve become family, hear why locals call in if they’re going to miss lunch, and find out which day is best to grab a plate of fried chicken or livers and gizzards (trust us, it’s worth the trip).Come for the food, stay for the people, because at Jo’s Gather'n Place, everyone’s family. Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grab your chips and sauce! 🍽 Joy Robertson is digging into a true Ozarks original! She’s sitting down with Garin Ferguson, the third-generation owner of Mexican Villa, to unwrap how a daring World War II pilot turned a taste of San Antonio into Springfield’s signature spin on Mexican food. Hear how Hargrave Ferguson and his friend Mike from Mexico City created those famous hot, mild, and sweet sauces still made from scratch today. You’ll laugh at the story of the fur coat that fell from the sky, learn how one thrifty sign swap gave birth to “Mexican Villa,” and see why fans (including Brad Pitt!) keep coming back for enchiladas, tacos, and that unforgettable sweet sauce. Plus, Garin shares how the family keeps honoring tradition while stirring in fresh touches like margarita Mondays to street-taco Thursdays, all while serving up big flavor and even bigger heart.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy Robertson takes a trip down Highway 7 to Jasper, Arkansas, where one of the Ozarks’ most surprising gems awaits: Low Gap Café. Owner Marie Bottini shares the remarkable story of how she and her late husband, Chef Nick Bottini, built a fine-dining destination “in the boonies.” Nick’s world-class culinary chops brought dishes like pan-seared scallops with mango curry cream sauce, house-made pastas, and perfectly seared steaks to a tiny town most people would drive right past. Marie now carries on his legacy with the help of family: her nephews in the kitchen, her granddaughter waiting tables, and Marie herself baking up indulgent desserts like chocolate cake, cobblers, and cheesecakes. Pull up a chair (and maybe a to-go box, because portions here are big) and hear why Low Gap Café is worth the drive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Joy Robertson sits down with Brandon “Chef Tiny” Moore, the chef who turned nostalgia into a menu and made Springfield fall in love all over again. At Retro Metro, you’ll find classics from the old Metropolitan Grill (yes, the famous flash-fried spinach and cocoa pasta are back!) right alongside new hits like the outrageous Fat Tiny Burger. Chef Tiny dishes on everything, like growing up with casserole-loving Midwestern roots, cooking at Charlie Trotter’s in Chicago, hanging with Springfield’s restaurant legends, and why he’s convinced he’ll “die here in southwest Springfield.” He’s hilarious, passionate, and very serious about his burgers. You've gotta hear this one. 🍔See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy Robertson pulls back the curtain at OTC’s student-run restaurant, Scallions, where culinary students transform their classroom into a real fine-dining experience. 👨‍🍳👩‍🍳​​​​​​​Chef Daniel Pliska shares why everything (and we mean everything) is made from scratch. Lisa Gardner reveals how she trains students in the art of hospitality and why she sometimes tells them to “go talk to the vegetables” when the stress gets real. You’ll also hear from proud program grads who’ve gone on to professional kitchens but return each week to cheer on the next wave of talent. Add in dreamy desserts like profiteroles dripping in bananas foster sauce, and your mouth will be watering the entire episode. 🥘 Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!      See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wished you could sneak away to the Caribbean without leaving Springfield? That’s exactly the vibe Greg Walker is serving up at Palm & Paddle. 🌴  Joy Robertson sits down with Greg to hear how a hotel owner who swore he’d never open a restaurant ended up creating a tropical getaway right here in Springfield. From jerk chicken and coconut shrimp to their famous Rasta Pasta and tacos that nearly won it all at a local competition, Palm and Paddle is bringing sunshine and spice to the Ozarks. Greg also spills on the challenges of being a first-time restaurateur, why his mom’s key lime pie gets rave reviews (even from Floridians), and how live music, rum flights, and happy hour make this spot feel like a vacation close to home. Pull up a chair, grab a cocktail, and get ready for some Caribbean flair, Ozarks-style. 🍹✨See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you get when two Springfield bankers swap balance sheets for bubbling jars of tea? Spring Branch Kombucha! 🫧 Joy Robertson sits down with Chris and Jessica Ollis to spill the (fermented) tea on how a basement experiment turned into one of the Ozarks’ favorite fizzy sips. From blueberry thyme to apple pie, these two built a kombucha brand that’s as bold as its flavors. They share how farmers markets turned into statewide distribution, how they survived (and thrived) through COVID with a pivot to cans, and why kombucha is winning over people looking for tasty non-alcoholic alternatives. Oh, and don’t miss the story of their “Ohana” flavor that raised thousands for Maui wildfire relief. 🌺 It’s bubbly, it’s feel-good, and it’s all brewed right here in the Ozarks. Pop a can, hit play, and join the fun! ✨ Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a California restaurant guy trades corporate chains for a north Springfield strip mall? You get Neighborhood Pizza... and one heck of a story. 🍕Joy Robertson chats with Larry Grace, who literally wrote a letter that convinced founder and former owner, Lisa, to sell him the place back in 2017. Since then, Larry’s been carrying on her legacy (and her grandma’s legendary sweet French dressing) while putting his own spin on the menu with calzones, loaded specialty pies, and enough toppings to make folding a slice practically illegal.From loyal customers who kept them booming through COVID to dreams of franchising, Larry proves a neighborhood spot can have big-time flavor and heart. Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy Robertson makes a pit stop at Kad-E-Korner, the little gas-station-turned-restaurant north of Springfield that’s serving up big-time flavor and small-town charm. She sits down with current owner Martha and former owner Coleen to dish on 80+ years of history, famous hand-curled fries, and burgers so good people plan road trips around them. 🍔 You’ll hear how Martha went from customer to owner (thanks to a fateful plate of bacon), why locals call this place a second home, and how “wine and worms” somehow makes perfect sense here. Add in live music nights, a Sunday farmers market, and a booth made famous by Chappell Roan, and you’ve got one unforgettable Ozarks story. ✨See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy Robertson hits the road for Omaha, Arkansas, where Lilliehobbs Bakery and Mercantile is dishing out comfort food, nostalgic treats, and Southern charm you didn’t even know you needed! 🥧 Owner Kelly Lindberg chats about how old-school family recipes, a flair for storytelling, and a love for real, homemade eats turned her roadside dream into a beloved Ozarks destination. Think fried bologna sandwiches so good folks drive hours to eat them and pies inspired by granny-approved recipes found in dusty old flea-market boxes. Plus, there’s a mercantile full of local goodies, sourdough classes that double as dinner parties, and whispers of a new steakhouse opening soon. Pull up a chair, you’re family now! Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do alligators, ghosts, and French-Cajun fusion have in common? 🐊 They’re all part of the delicious mystery Joy Robertson uncovers at the BRAND NEW La Roux Bistro on Commercial Street. She sits down with local restaurant legend Joe Gidman (who brought us Café Cusco and Van Gogh’s) to hear how his latest spot blends Louisiana flair with French technique, all inside a historic 1885 building complete with a secret underground vault and a possible ghost named Virgil. 👻 From crab beignets to bourbon bread pudding, it’s all made from scratch with ingredients shipped straight from the bayou. Plus, Joe spills secrets about managing multiple restaurants, juggling two head chefs, and crafting hurricanes that’ll blow you away (literally). It's a "Big Easy" to say... this spot serves up bold flavors, rich history, and a whole lot of personality. 🥘🍤See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pineapple Whip isn’t just a dessert; it’s a summertime rite of passage. 🍧 Joy Robertson sits down with Zach Fortner to chat about how this magical swirl went from a family-run carnival favorite to a Springfield obsession. Get the behind-the-trailer scoop on fan-favorite flavors, what it's like to run a business that's only open part of the year, and why the first warm day brings the crowds running.🍍🍦See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy Robertson sits down with high school sweethearts Victor and Sarah Briceno, owners of Mundo’s Latin Kitchen & Bar in Ozark, for a fun and flavorful conversation about food, family, and chasing your dreams. From growing up in the restaurant biz to opening their own spot featuring dishes from across Latin America (like mofongo, Lomo Saltado, patacón... yum!), this couple shares the heart and hustle behind their five-year journey. You’ll hear about how Sarah left radiology to join Victor full-time, the family-friendly vibe of their second restaurant/nightclub hybrid OXO, and how they’re raising their kids in the middle of it all. It’s a delicious story of love, culture, and community served with a side of plantains. You’re gonna want to eat after this one! 🥘See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get ready to eat your way around the world without ever leaving Springfield. 🌍🌮🍜In this episode, Joy Robertson heads to Metro Eats, where food truck dreams, farmers market finds, and community vibes collide. Founder Christina Shellhart shares how she turned 10 acres on West Sunshine into a bustling hub of global cuisine and live entertainment, complete with 15+ food trucks, an all-day bar, a farmers market, and future plans for a haunted forest (yes, really).From Taiwanese snow and African goat stew to barbecue, boba, and bubble tea, Christina’s vision is all about supporting passionate local chefs and letting food tell the story. Plus, with a bee sanctuary on-site, there’s something sweet in every corner. Come hungry and stay for the live jazz, vintage markets, and maybe even a legendary Bloody Mary from The Warehouse Bar. There’s nothing else like it in the Ozarks. Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy Robertson heads to Willard, Missouri to visit The Hive of the Ozarks, a cozy, cheerful café that’s so much more than a breakfast and lunch spot. Founded by former school counselor Melissa Skaggs, The Hive is a non-profit workforce training ground where individuals with differing abilities gain real-world job skills through paid internships, and where the food and mission are equally heartwarming. From scratch-made kolaches and coconut lime cookies to house-made hummus and artisan mixed sodas, The Hive serves up local love in every bite. Joy chats with Melissa about leaving her counseling career to start The Hive, her son Jacob's journey, and how the community is helping this sweet spot buzz with purpose. You’ll also meet some of the incredible team members, regulars, and supporters behind the scenes. Grab a coffee, settle in, and prepare to be inspired. 🐝💛 Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy Robertson visits Show Me Chuy in Springfield, where Mexican and Italian flavors come together in one seriously delicious fusion. Meet Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, the chef and dreamer behind the menu, and his wife Judith Martinez Garcia, the powerhouse who runs the show behind the scenes while letting Chuy take full charge of the kitchen.Chuy shares his passion for changing how people think about Mexican food, introducing dishes like Mexican lasagna, Pollo Poblano, and a pork chop topped with mango pico. With twenty years of experience and a big heart, he’s building community through food and turning guests into family.Joy dives into their story, their flavors, and maybe even grabs a bite or two. Pull up a chair and get ready to savor something truly special. 🌶 Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy Robertson wraps up her whirlwind time at the National Restaurant Show in Chicago with a hometown twist! In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy catches up with food industry powerhouses from right here in the 417, because who says Springfield can't hang with the big dogs? First up, she sits down with Mike and Casey Jalili, the dynamic duo behind Springfield staples like Flame, Char, and Black Sheep. They dish on what trends caught their eye and how restaurant tech is changing the game. Then Joy chats with Aaron Gregory, Executive Chef at SGC Food Service, who’s on the hunt for the next big thing in flavor. From mocktails and dirty sodas to pinça pizza crust, Aaron’s got his finger on the culinary pulse, and he's not afraid to get a little weird (in the best way possible). You’ll even get the inside scoop on the real MVP of the restaurant world—the walk-in cooler. Turns out, it’s not just for keeping food cold... it’s also where chefs go to chill themselves (tears, screams, deep breaths... whatever it takes). Joy’s wrapping up her time at the National Restaurant Show with laughs, local flavor, and fresh insights. Ending on a high note, the Ozarks way!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She’s baaaack! Joy Robertson returns to the National Restaurant Show in Chicago for another flavor-packed episode of Savor the Ozarks, and this one brings the heat AND the hype! First up: Melinda’s Hot Sauce! Joy chats with Pinson Figueroa, the second-generation spice boss from a Belizean-American family turning up taste buds nationwide. From habanero classics to black truffle hot sauce and even their hot sauce on ice cream, Melinda’s is anything but ordinary. 🌶 Then Joy dives into the world of Avocados from Mexico with Walter Rivas and Ali Werner... and let’s just say, it’s way more than guac. We’re talking avocado toast bars, avo-cocktails, avocado desserts, and even an avocado “sandwich” that swaps the bread for… well, avocado. 🥑 🔥 Hot sauce. 🥑 Avocados. 💃 And Joy, living her best foodie life in Chicago. Don't miss this one!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joy Robertson is once again on the ground at the National Restaurant Show in Chicago, bringing Savor the Ozarks listeners another serving of local flavor with a national twist! First up, she chats with Enrique Fuhlage of Show-Me BBQ Sauce out of Rocheport, Missouri. They’re celebrating 50 years of sauce that’s so good, it’s basically a Midwest heirloom. No preservatives, no fillers, just flavor that’s stood the test of time. 🍖  Then, Joy hops over to the Natural State Rabbit booth and discovers just how delicious (and misunderstood) rabbit meat really is with Lyn Robertson & Chef David Jetter. Chef Jetter even schools us on cooking it sous vide-style like a pro. 🐇✨  It’s local food, national spotlight, and all the delicious details from Joy’s second week at the show. Let’s get into it! Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you get when you mix a legendary chef, a 10-year mole recipe, and a mezcal bar? An episode packed with flavor! Joy Robertson hits the floor at the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show and chats with the one and only Rick Bayless—chef, author, TV star, and the man who brought real-deal Mexican food to Chicago. He shares how a teenage trip to Mexico turned into a lifelong obsession, why making mole is basically like hosting Thanksgiving, and how he’s helped over 250 Midwest farms with his Frontera Farmer Foundation. Plus, Joy dishes on the hottest trends shaking up the food world, including non-alcoholic everything, Asian flavor explosions, and how GLP-1 drugs are changing appetites. If you love food, flavor, and a good chef story, this one’s spicy in all the right ways. 🌶See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wonder where you can get a perfectly grilled strip steak for $12 and watch the future stars of the culinary world in action? Welcome to Ozarks Technical Community College’s best-kept (and tastiest) secret, Scallions. This week on Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson chats with Lisa Gardner, Chef Daniel Pliska, and Chef Jeff Ward, the culinary dream team behind OTC’s Culinary Arts & Hospitality program. They’re not just teaching students how to cook, they’re turning them into food pros who know how to make everything from sushi to seven-layer cakes and even house-made bacon. Yes, bacon. 🥓 With stories from fancy European kitchens, university banquet halls, and late nights spent perfecting pastries, these chefs bring serious flavor to the classroom. They’re also serving up international cuisine, high-end desserts, and next-level kitchen skills, all on a community college campus. 🎓See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if I told you one of Springfield’s busiest lunch spots runs on cash only, cranks out 200 sandwiches a day, and operates in a space smaller than most living rooms?Meet The Sub Shop, a local legend that’s been serving up fresh-made sandwiches since 1972. Owner Ethan Seehusen runs the tiny but mighty space with help from his wife and a small team, baking their own bread every morning at 4 AM and keeping things simple with a cash-only, Monday-through-Friday setup. The result? A lunch rush that’s fast, fresh, and full of favorites like a veggie sandwich with cashews, homemade chicken salad, and cookies baked from scratch.It's the kind of old-school operation that proves you don’t need to be big to be beloved. 🥪Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever had a meal that tasted like it came straight from someone’s mama’s kitchen? 🥘 That’s exactly what you’ll get at Mama G’s... and Gloria Hairston is the heart behind it all.She opened the restaurant to carry on her late mother’s dream, and in less than a year, it’s already become a downtown favorite. Think fried chicken, catfish, pork chops... and yes, peach cobbler wing sauce. 🍑🍗 Gloria’s got stories, flavor, and soul for days. She’s a mom, a boss, and a community builder who's feeding way more than just appetites.Come for the food, stay for the heart. You’ll be glad you listened. 🎧🎙 Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.