Savor The Ozarks

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.

What do you get when a fire-spinning, cocktail-slinging New Yorker brings his bold flavor to the Ozarks? You get Ruthie’s... and you get Joe Pepe. Joy Robertson sits down with Joe, the owner of Ruthie’s Off C-Street, to talk about his wild ride from bartending in the Hamptons to building one of Springfield’s most eclectic and welcoming bar scenes. From flaming rum flips and barrel-aged cocktails to sweet Thai chili pulled pork made in-house with his son, Joe’s not just serving drinks... he’s serving stories, soul, and serious flavor. With no drink menu, no cover for karaoke, and nothing but good vibes, Ruthie’s is the kind of place you discover once and never forget. You’ll laugh, you’ll crave a cocktail, and you’ll want to pull up a barstool at Ruthie’s by the end of this episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this sleek and savory episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson sits down with Johnson Tan of Ocean Zen to talk about how a bold seafood fusion concept grew from a cozy 100-seat spot on Glenstone to one of Springfield’s most stunning 350-seat dining destinations. Johnson dishes on his journey from growing up in his family’s local restaurants to sharpening his skills at Le Cordon Bleu and working alongside top chefs at Roy’s and Nobu. From their famous Chilean Sea Bass in puff pastry to tableside Bananas Foster, Johnson tells us what makes Ocean Zen stand out, and why quality, presentation, and family still come first after 20 years in business. If you’re a foodie, a fan of fusion, or just love a good local success story, you’ll want to savor every bite of this one. 🍽️✨See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this flavorful episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson chats with James Martin, the self-taught chef and owner of Gilardi's, a cozy Italian gem in Springfield with a serious passion for pasta and people.James went from studying Eastern religion and dreaming of being a hostage negotiator to buying Gilardi's in 2013... and when his kitchen staff quit early on, he turned to YouTube to learn how to cook (yep, really). Now, he’s serving up house-made pasta, 300 pounds of fresh basil from the front garden, and a menu full of heart.He opens up about the behind-the-scenes grind of keeping a restaurant alive during COVID, battling rising food costs, and staying true to his mission: great food, warm vibes, and an inclusive, welcoming space for all. Add in his plans for community charity partnerships and those special regional wine dinners, and you've got one inspiring local story. 🍝🌿🍷Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson sits down with Stacey Schneider, owner of Pizza House, a Springfield staple with a 65-year history. Starting as a 15-year-old employee in the late ‘80s, Stacy worked her way up to owner, keeping the iconic thin-crust, square-cut pizzas and the original 1958 phone number alive!From its beginnings on Bennett and Glenstone to its quick-moving relocation to Commercial Street, Pizza House has stayed true to its roots while serving three generations of loyal customers. Stacy shares stories of hand-ground cheese, house-made dough, and 300+ pizzas flying out the door on busy nights... plus a few new twists, like beer and wine service and a bacon cheeseburger pizza.If you love Springfield history, classic pizza, and small business success stories, this episode is right up your alley! 🍕🎧Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson sits down with Katie Kring, the powerhouse behind Pickwick and Cherry in Springfield. From musical theater to mastering the art of bread, Katie’s journey is anything but ordinary. 🎭🍞Kaite shares wild stories, like getting kicked out of the farmers market (twice!), feuding with buffalo ranchers, and turning a run-down building into a thriving foodie hub. With date night dinners, kids' camps, and specialty tastings, she’s bringing flavor, fun, and a bit of drama to the Ozarks food scene. Tune in for a conversation as rich as her balsamic vinegar collection! 🍷✨See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson chats with Diana and Susie, the dynamic duo behind MaMa Jean’s Natural Market, a Springfield favorite for all things fresh, organic, and delicious! 🌿🥑 It all started with Susie's MaMa Jean herself, who opened a tiny health food store in Ava, Missouri, in 1979 with just $200 and a passion for clean eating. Inspired by her mission, Susie and Diana launched MaMa Jean’s in 2002 on Jean’s birthday! 🎉 What began as a small shop has grown into three locations with over 160 employees, all committed to high-quality, natural products and local sourcing. They share the market’s journey, keeping prices fair, and staying true to MaMa Jean’s original vision. Tune in for a story of family, food, and a whole lot of heart! 💚 Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson chats with Nick and Carl Swanson, thebrothers behind Ozark Mountain Popcorn in Springfield! 🍿 What started as a small popcorn stand in the 1970s has grown into a local favorite, offering over 100 flavors made from Missouri-grown, non-GMO popcorn. The Swansons share how their family took over the business, their process for popping and flavoring thousands of pounds of popcorn, and how they create custom mixes for everything from concerts to corporate events. Whether you’re a fan of sweet, savory, or wild popcorn flavors, this episode is packed with delicious details you won’t want to miss!​​​​​​​Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pour a glass and settle in for a great conversation! In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Sunshine Hubbard, the passionate owner of Cellar + Plate, a cozy wine bar and restaurant in Springfield. Sunshine shares her journey from teaching elementary school to running a scratch kitchen with the help of Chef Martin. They talk about the incredible wine selection, must-try dishes like the baked brie and curry pasta, and fun events, from wine pairing dinners to vinyl nights and the much-anticipated return of Drag Brunch! Whether you're a wine lover, a foodie, or just someone who enjoys a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this episode is one you won’t want to miss!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fire up the smoker and get ready for a mouthwatering episode! In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson sits down with Dave Warren, one of the men behind Whole Hog Café in Springfield. From pouring concrete to perfecting Memphis-style barbecue, Dave shares his journey into the restaurant world, the secrets behind their six signature sauces, and how a happy accident led to the creation of their famous burnt and cheesy corn. Plus, he teases future plans, including packaging that cheesy corn for retail and, believe it or not, launching a skincare line made from beef tallow! If you love barbecue, business stories, or just a great conversation, this one’s for you. Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered how Andy’s Frozen Custard became a household name? In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Carol Kuntz to hear the incredible story of how a little frozen custard stand at Lake of the Ozarks (launched during a snowstorm, how fitting!) grew into a beloved brand with over 160 locations. From the difference between ice cream and custard to the creation of fan-favorite treats like the Jackhammer, Carol shares the history, innovation, and family-driven culture behind Andy’s success. Whether you're a die-hard Andy’s fan or just love a good business story, this episode is packed with sweet insights you won’t want to miss!  Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson chats with Mike Jalili, the man behind some of Springfield’s most well-known restaurants. From launching Bijan's in the ’90s to creating staples like Flame, Touch (now Char), and Black Sheep, Mike has left a lasting mark on the local food scene. He shares his journey from fleeing Iran during the revolution to building a restaurant empire in the Ozarks, his expertise in dry-aging steaks, and his commitment to quality ingredients. Tune in to hear how his vision and passion have shaped dining in Springfield! A big thanks to our sponsor for Savor The Ozarks, Arctic Food Equipment!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson chats with Richard and Katie Vance, the couple behind Billiards Sports Bar & Grill in Downtown Springfield. After years of owning McAlister’s franchises, they took over Billiards post-COVID, transforming it from a traditional pool hall into a modern, family-friendly sports bar. With 18 pool tables, 41 TVs, an expanded menu, and a 100-person event space, they’ve kept the bar’s legacy alive while adding fresh new touches. Tune in to hear their journey, how they’re serving up great food and entertainment, and why Billiards is a go-to spot for everyone from business professionals to college students!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson sits down with twin brothers Nelson and Edson Villela, owners of Señor Julian in Springfield. Named after their father, this family-run restaurant brings authentic northeastern Mexican cuisine to the Ozarks. The brothers share their journey from migrating to the U.S. as kids to opening their restaurant in 2022, featuring homemade tortillas, unique dishes like fajita baked potatoes, and traditional tacos especiales. Learn about their recent expansion, vibrant hand-carved decor, and their impressive selection of over 27 tequilas, including custom margaritas served in clay cups from Mexico. A celebration of family, flavor, and culture you won’t want to miss!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson visits The Little Clay House in Marshfield to chat with owner Carly Odell. Carly shares her journey from growing up in Reeds Spring to opening her charming tea room, inspired by a love for homemade food and childhood memories. Discover how she created a menu featuring fresh, creative dishes like her signature chicken salad, strawberry soup, and the California Baby sandwich. Carly opens up about balancing life as a restaurant owner, homeschooling mom, and her inspiring story of overcoming addiction to build a thriving business and life in Marshfield. Don’t miss this heartwarming episode filled with resilience, faith, and delicious food!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson chats with Chef Paul Allen, whose culinary journey spans from his Texas roots to yacht kitchens and beyond. Paul shares how his father’s entertainment career at Silver Dollar City brought him to the Ozarks, his early love for cooking, and his rigorous training at the Culinary Institute of America. Hear about his adventures as a yacht chef catering to the ultra-wealthy, creating lavish meals with no budget limits, and his transition to founding Allen Event Group, where he creates unforgettable dining experiences. Paul also shares his vision for his 7.5-acre farm in Ozark, focusing on sustainable practices, educational programs, and unique farm-to-table events. Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at one of the Ozarks' most innovative chefs!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson talks with Wing and Ling Leong, sons of David Leong, the creator of the famous Springfield-style cashew chicken. They share the inspiring story of their father’s journey from immigrating to the U.S. in with only $2, serving in WWII, and opening the legendary Leong's Tea House in Springfield. The brothers discuss carrying on their father's legacy at Leong's Asian Diner, where they serve his original recipes alongside new dishes. Listen in to learn about their famous handmade egg rolls of which they serve a THOUSAND A WEEK), premium ingredients, and how they’ve brought their signature flavors to grocery stores and online. A delicious slice of Ozarks food history you won’t want to miss!Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson chats with Ryan Dock and Eric Weiler, co-owners of Lindbergh’s Tavern on Commercial Street. They share the story of reviving this historic 1880s building, from its colorful past as a brothel to its transformation into a hotspot for ‘elevated bar food,’ craft cocktails, and live music. Hear about their scratch kitchen favorites like cashew chicken poutine and duck fat-fried burgers, the iconic 22-foot mahogany bar with ties to Wild Bill Hickok, and their popular Sunday brunch specials. History, food, and music collide in this must-listen episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson chats with Shawn Kraft, owner of Nonna's Italian Cafe in Springfield, to uncover the rich history and authentic flavors behind this local gem. Shawn shares his journey from flipping burgers at Wendy’s to owning one of the most beloved Italian spots in the Ozarks. With a deep passion for Italian cuisine and spending nearly half the year in Italy, Shawn offers a unique perspective on the differences between authentic Italian and American-Italian food. From the story of Nonna’s founding in 1995 to the secrets behind crowd-favorites like deep-fried lasagna and chicken fettuccine alfredo, this episode is packed with mouthwatering details. Plus, Shawn dishes on his culinary adventures in Naples, where he takes—and teaches—Italian cooking classes. Whether you’re a foodie, a fan of Nonna’s, or just love a great story, this episode is sure to satisfy!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson sits down with Colleen Smith, owner of Tea Bar and Bites, and Eleanor Taylor, owner of Prairie Pie, for a heartfelt conversation about big changes at this beloved local spot. After 21 years of serving up cozy vibes, delicious food, and over 70 types of tea, Colleen is passing the torch to Eleanor—who used to work at Tea Bar as a teenager! Hear the inspiring story of how Colleen built the restaurant from 8 seats and a dream, and what this transition means for the community. Eleanor shares her plans to honor Tea Bar’s traditions while adding her own touches when she takes over on January 1st. Whether you’re a longtime fan or curious about this exciting new chapter, this episode is full of nostalgia, local love, and a peek into the future of a Springfield favorite!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy chats with Sam Hedrick, the Director of Food and Beverage at Silver Dollar City, who’s been serving up unforgettable food experiences at the park for 33 years! Starting as a 14-year-old busboy, Sam shares his journey to leading the culinary scene at one of the Ozarks’ most iconic attractions. From their famous giant skillets (serving up to 10,000 portions a day!) to creative festival favorites like the cashew chicken cone, get the inside scoop on how Silver Dollar City balances Ozark tradition with bold food innovations. Plus, hear about the park’s exciting new expansion plans, including a brand-new resort, and the Herschend family’s continued legacy. If you love food, fun, and behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is a must-listen!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Laine Scholz, owner of Springfield’s beloved Garbo's Pizzeria. Laine shares her journey of growing up in the family restaurant, to now leading it into its next chapter. Hear about their signature St. Louis-style pizza, famous house-made dressing, and Laine’s sweet addition: baked cakes! She also opens up about her passion for empowering her team, giving back to the community, and the ups and downs of running a family-owned business. It’s a slice of inspiration you won’t want to miss!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy Robertson dives into all things Thanksgiving with Jeffrey Bates of 417 Good Eat'N and Billy Dove, the 417 Foodist. They chat about must-have dishes (dressing or mac and cheese, anyone?), holiday cooking mishaps, and their takes on Thanksgiving classics. Get inspired by unique recipe twists, fun appetizer ideas, and even a debate on cranberry sauce! Plus, they share their favorite holiday cocktails, desserts, and creative ways to tackle leftovers. What are your Thanksgiving must-haves? Have any memorable recipes or holiday fails? Join the conversation by emailing Joy at [email protected], and let’s savor the season together!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.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Landon and Stephanie Campbell, the new owners of Pappy's Place in Springfield, Missouri. Pappy's Place has been the longest-running restaurant in Springfield's history, starting in 1926 (although the name hasn't always been Pappy's!) The Campbells strive to maintain the fun traditions, like "Hacker Day", while also keeping things fresh by introducing great new menu items, like the Cuban and Reuban sandwiches. From live music events held in the courtyard, to its unique dollar bill ceiling, Pappy's Place is FAR from boring and full of rich Ozarks history. Learn more about a quaint little place that has a corner of Joy's heart, RIGHT HERE on Savor the Ozarks!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Clif and Lauren Brown, owners of Neighbor's Mill Bakery & Cafe in Springfield, Missouri. Neighbor's Mill is a family-owned bakery/cafe specializing in handcrafted, all-natural breads, grilled and cold sandwiches, soups, salads, desserts and coffee/espresso drinks. The idea for Neighbor's Mill started in the mid '90s with Lauren's parents, Mike and Karin Nabors. They had a goal to produce made-from-scratch, handcrafted breads and pastries. Mike and Karin wanted to make bread the “star of the show” on their cafe menu and create the atmosphere of a 100-year-old grist mill. They offer 25+ varieties of hand-crafted bread, and you'll never find any preservatives or artificial flavorings in them. If you're anywhere in the Ozarks, they bet you can find a grocery store, health food store or restaurant near you that's serving their bread. Listen in on their amazing journey to becoming a beloved Ozarks staple RIGHT HERE on Savor the Ozarks!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Pat Duran, the owner of Metropolitan Grill in Springfield, Missouri. Pat's passion for cooking was sparked by watching his mother cook for their large family (He's one of TWELVE). In 2005, Pat took over Metropolitan Grill and has crafted a very eclectic menu, featuring steaks, seafood, pasta, and unique dishes inspired by customers whose names are penned on the menu. Pat shares his love for the vibrant restaurant scene in the Ozarks and his philosophy of creating memorable experiences for customers. Hear more about this Springfield spot where it feels like everyone TRULY knows your name, RIGHT HERE on Savor the Ozarks!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Eleanor Taylor, founder of Prairie Pie. Prairie Pie is a sweet and savory pie company located in downtown Springfield, Missouri that offers unique, handmade sweet pies and pot pies. Eleanor began her baking career here in the Midwest in her grandmother’s kitchen, baking and decorating hundreds of Christmas cookies. Since the age of 16 she has been creating custom desserts for bakeries in Springfield and New York City. To hear more about Eleanor and her journey of being a baker and business woman, listen in RIGHT HERE on this episode of Savor the Ozarks!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Lyle Foster, the fun-loving owner of Big Momma's Coffee and Espresso Bar. What started as Lyle coming to Springfield to watch his daughter play in a college basketball game in 2004, led to him exploring Historic Commercial Street and falling in love with it. He took an old condemned building and turned it into the beloved coffee bar we know and love today. From sandwiches, scratch-made pastries, muffins and scones, to just a simply amazing cup of coffee, Big Momma's has it all. Get the inside scoop on this bright staple of Historic Commercial Street, RIGHT HERE on Savor the Ozarks!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Andy Hampshire, owner of JW's Kitchen! Andy was born and raised in Middlewich, England, and came to the Ozarks in 1999 for an internship at Big Cedar. Eventually, Andy and his wife took over the Ozarks favorite, Farmer's Gastropub. The brunch that they put on at Farmers Gastropub was so successful, that they decided to open a whole new restaurant around it! JW's Kitchen menu is a hybrid of the best American and English breakfast dishes, alongside some interesting new ones that are all created with local ingredients. Listen in on the heartfelt story of how JW's came to be and all they have to offer RIGHT HERE on Savor the Ozarks!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 theopportunity 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!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy sits down with Split Social Kitchen co-founder, Kristen Brunelle, to talk all about the fun and intriguing ways they approach food and drink at Split. With a passion for food and a good time, their mission each day is to give every guest an experience they can feel good about. Their menu is innovative and fresh with a casual feel, not to mention, thefun names of the dishes. Split has developed a devoted fan base here in the Ozarks, and if you're not careful, you may get a dish named after you! There's plenty of great food and fun atmosphere to go around at Split Social Kitchen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen in on Joy's final conversation at the National Restaurant Show with a very intriguing guest. Joy's old friend Guy Mitchell has quite the resume, and the stories to accompany it. Chef Guy Mitchell has served as Executive Chef for the Philadelphia Eagles, all of the "Rocky" Hollywood film sets and has hosted the famous QVC television show as well as the The Atlantic City Food and Wine Festival. Chef Guy Mitchell cooked for the Academy Awards and while working in New York, has served as Executive Chef for David Rockefeller in his distinguished Montauk Yacht Club on Star Island. He also worked with Chef Ron Duprat at the James Beard Foundation in New York City. He has also produced a Stellar Cruise Ship style brunch on various occasions. Through Guy's arising accomplishments, he has had the unique pleasure of working closely with the White House to host special engagements with the Presidents' chefs. He has also had the great pleasure of working with such famous chefs such as Emeril Lagasse, Morimoto, Bobby Flay, Paula Dean and Guy Fieri, all from the Food Network.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Joy at the National Restaurant Show with a fun new guest. Tony Abou-Ganim, aka The Modern Mixologist, is celebrated as one of the foremost bar professionals globally, currently lending his expertise to Royal Caribbean Cruise lines as a beverage consultant, focusing on innovative drink programs for their newest ships. Renowned for his pioneering contributions, Tony has appeared on numerous national TV programs such as TODAY, Iron Chef America, Good Morning America, CNBC, and Fox News. He is also a three-time champion of Iron Chef America, showcasing his expertise in pairing cocktails with top culinary talents like Iron Chef Mario Batali, Iron Chef Jose Garces, and challenger Chef Shawn McClain. He has also authored books and has his own line of bar tools. His full resume will astound you. Joy always enjoys the opportunity to catch up with this amazing talent!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy continues her conversations at the National Restaurant Show with two businesses that represented Missouri at the Taste of the States exhibit. First, meet the owner of 1820, The Family Restaurant in Keytesville, Missouri, Nathan Asbury. What caught Joy's eye in their exhibit was the 1820 Sauce. The restaurant came first, but Nathan and his wife, Michelle, started bottling and selling their homemade sauce that they feature in the restaurant. It's a true Cinderella story. Then, meet Johnny Hunter of Castor River Habitat & Farm in Dexter, Missouri. He specializes in regenerative agriculture. His family grows, harvests, mills, and packages the rice that is sold nationwide. His award-winning farming methods lower carbon emissions and elevate the quality and taste of Castor River Farms rice. But at the end of the day, they are still a small-town farm with small-town values you can trust here in the Ozarks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago is the largest gathering of foodservice professionals in the Western hemisphere, with more resources, information and connection opportunities than any other industry event. The event averages over 2,200 exhibitors with over 900 categories of products. In this episode of Savor the Ozarks, Joy talks with Lisa Malikow, the Senior VP of Event Operations and Programming for the 2024 National Restaurant Association Show. Join Joy as she learns more about the show and it's history, relevance, and why what happens at the NRA show will very likely affect the food you eat out and at home here in the Ozarks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hold Fast Brewing is a brick-and-mortar representation of all the principles important to the McLeod Family. What started out as a passion for beer and home brewing has blossomed into a successful family business celebrating delicious craft beer, the vibrant Springfield, Missouri community, and the memory of a father. It is a place of community, friendship, family, creativity, and love. It is a welcoming place to all. It is a place where everyone who walks in the doors is reminded to “hold fast,” and to do it with love. Listen in as Joy Robertson sits down with one of the owners, Carol McLeod, to talk about the loss of her and Susan's dad and how it led them to opening this amazing brewery with zero experience in an old fire station.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly Famous Deli & Pasta house is proud to be the same friendly neighborhood establishment you've known since 1976. Nearly Famous remains a Springfield institution, the place where everyone knows your name and everything is prepared with love. Joy Robertson speaks with Nancy Miller, owner of Nearly Famous Deli and Pasta House. Joy and Nancy chat about how Nancy bought Nearly Famous Deli and Pasta House, Nancy's restaurant experience, the original location vs. the current location, the atmosphere of the restaurant, the different kinds of comfort food offered, the legacy of the restaurant, and much more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Van Gogh's Eeterie is a bit of The Netherlands in Springfield, MO. A contemporary take on a traditional Dutch Pancake House. Joy Robertson speaks with Joseph Gidman, owner of Van Gogh's Eeterie, Chabom Teas & Spices, and Café Cusco. Joy and Joe chat about Joe's experience in Europe including his education background and passions from traveling, the inspiration behind Van Gogh's Eeterie, American vs Dutch pancakes, the importance of educating and introducing people to international food, hallmarks of Dutch cuisine, the experience, authenticity, and personal touches at Van Gogh's Eeterie, and much more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thunder Ridge Nature Arena is America’s most beautiful outdoor amphitheater, a one-of-a-kind immersive outdoor “musical postcard from Mother Nature." Located in Ridgedale, Missouri just a few miles from Branson, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena combines the natural beauty of the Ozarks with the stunningly beautiful architecture that seamlessly integrates into the surrounding environment. Joy Robertson speaks with David F. Wright, Executive Chef at Thunder Ridge Nature Arena. Joy and David chat about how the menu at Nature Arena is based off of the Ozarks, elevating the food from the typical experience, local sustainability, the variety at concessions offered, insider tips for concert goers, upcoming events, what makes Thunder Ridge Nature Arena one-of-a-kind, and much more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

London Calling Gourmet Pasty Company is a British restaurant and food truck company that offers gourmet British comfort food. Their emphasis is on the handheld pot pie known as the Cornish Pasty and on British Fish and Chips but offer lots of other iconic British food from Shepherd's Pies to Sausage Rolls. Joy Robertson speaks with Carrie Mitchell and Neil Gomme, co-owners of London Calling Gourmet Pasty Company. Joy chats with Carrie and Neil about their backgrounds, the journey of how London Calling began, what a pasty is, the different pasty flavors and food London Calling offers, the multiple locations to find London Calling Gourmet Pasty Company, upcoming exciting news, and much more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.