Savor The Ozarks

Get ready to experience the most peaceful farm on the north side! Joy heads out to Tasty Acres Farm on Highway AA to chat with co-owner Peyton Andrews, who traded a career in pediatric mental health and the Chamber of Commerce to get her hands dirty on a gorgeous 12-acre farm with her husband.

From pre-planting a whopping 23,000 strawberry plants every year to hosting fall favorites like pumpkin chucking and "Crowchella," this place is all about slow living and wholesome community fun. Stop by for fresh produce, local gift items, and a cozy coffee bar, and be sure to say hello to "Dove"—a friendly white homing pigeon who randomly showed up, claimed the front porch, and officially adopted the farm! 🍓🌻🐦

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy chats with local restaurateur Jennifer Barr, who—along with her husband, Darryl—owns both Georgia Mac's and the legendary Uncle Bentlys in Springfield! After opening Georgia Mac's in 2018 (named after their moms and serving up incredible comfort food and Southern classics), Jennifer and Darryl took over the iconic South National neighborhood staple, Uncle Bentlys. They gave the beloved bar a fresh update while keeping its classic charm intact, adding a popular salad bar and a fantastic scratch-made dinner menu featuring pork belly Peppadews, jumbo crab cakes, and tableside hanging bacon!

Tune in to hear all about their journey, how they balance running two bustling restaurants seven days a week, their famous monthly music bingo nights, and how they continue Uncle Bentlys beloved tradition of hosting the massive "Wild Turkey Wednesday" charity bake sale for Women in Need of the Ozarks! 😋🍻🍗

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Joy shares a special, bonus interview recorded while at sea on the Chris Botti at Sea cruise! She sits down with legendary restaurant critic Michael Bauer, who spent an incredible 32 years as the food editor and restaurant critic for the San Francisco Chronicle. Michael shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories of what it really takes to review restaurants incognito—including growing beards, wearing fat suits, and learning how to separate poor service from the actual food on the plate.

Tune in to hear how growing up around his father's wholesale meat market in Kansas shaped his love for dining out, why he believes San Francisco is one of the ultimate food cities in the world, and how he now spends his time mentoring at-risk youth through the Sprouts Chef Training program. And yes, he's been here and tried the cashew chicken. 🐔 It's a rare, insightful look into the mind of one of the country's most celebrated culinary critics! 🍽️📰✨

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy sits down with local franchise owners Donna and Jamie Jacobsen to talk about their journey with Springfield's beloved Fazoli's locations and their exciting upcoming venture, Capriotti's Sandwich Shop! Jamie shares his culinary background—starting from cooking in a nursing home at age 14 to serving as executive chef at the Ramada Hawthorne Park and Branson's Cowboy Cafe—before partnering with Larry Graham to run local Fazoli's restaurants.

​Tune in to hear how the Jacobsens built a legacy of community support (like their annual Crosslines coupon book fundraiser) and get the inside scoop on Capriotti's, featuring fresh-roasted whole turkeys daily, Wagyu beef cheese steaks, and their famous Thanksgiving-inspired sub, "The Bobbie". Whether you're craving classic baked pasta or a massive sub on fresh Italian bakery rolls, this episode is a delicious celebration of hard work, quality ingredients, and local family business! 🍝🥖✨

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy visits Metro Eats on West Sunshine to check out Stusquatch's Rock Star Barbecue! She sits down with owner Stu Aldridge and General Manager Betsy Walker to talk about how this rock-and-roll-themed BBQ joint came to be. From music-inspired menu items like "The Limp Brisket" and the "Owner of a Provolonely Heart" sandwich to local Ozark wood-smoked meats, scratch-made sides, and shared community vibes with the adjacent Where House Bar, this episode is a fun-filled deep dive into barbecue and blues. 🎸🍖✨

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy visits a Springfield favorite, Bambinos, and hits the restaurant "trifecta" by chatting with Andy Faucett, his brother Chuck Faucett, and their mother and matriarch, Mary Faucett! Mary shares her incredible backstory of how she accidentally started her restaurant journey—going to file for unemployment after earning her master's degree in English when she spotted a for-sale sign at a small diner—which eventually led to opening restaurants like The Main Cafe and Nonna's downtown.

Tune in to hear how Andy and his original partner, Brian Ash, launched the first Bambinos in Columbia, Missouri, back in 1994, before bringing it to Springfield's Rountree neighborhood. From family-inspired pasta recipes and Chuck's invention of the seafood lasagna to delicious menu favorites like "The Greek" and homemade tiramisu, this episode is a wonderful tribute to family, community, and great Italian-American comfort food. 🍝🍷✨

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy heads down to Ozark, Missouri, to visit the legendary Billy Gail's! She chats with Director of Operations Nick Hurshman about the rich history of this Ozarks staple, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in a building that started out as an old gas station. Famous for their massive, hubcap-sized 14-inch pancakes and mouthwatering French cakes, Billy Gail's is a true breakfast paradise (though they serve up fantastic burgers, chicken-fried steak, and one-pound tenderloins, too!). 🥞🥓✨

Tune in to hear how the ownership team expanded the original location, added amazing menu items like the glazed donut burger and "Billion Dollar Bacon," and grew the brand to include multiple locations, a lakefront lodge, and even a retro '80s-themed spot in Branson called Paul's Breakfast House! Whether you're craving a monster pancake or just a cozy, down-home meal surrounded by fun local decor, this episode is a delicious tribute to comfort food at its finest. 😋🍳🙌

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy sits down with Paul Sundy, the mastermind behind the homegrown Ozarks favorite, Big Whiskey's! What started back in 2007 as a DIY labor of love in downtown Springfield has officially exploded into a booming franchise with over 20 locations and counting. From his early days rolling pretzels at Auntie Anne's to the heartwarming (and slightly humorous) story of how a regular ordering a "big" Crown and Coke inspired the restaurant's iconic name, Paul shares the wild ride of building a scratch-kitchen favorite. 🥃🍔✨

Tune in to hear how Big Whiskey's evolved from a casual bar and grill into a full-blown restaurant family, plus find out about Paul's hair-raising, viral brush with a surprise tornado while golfing at Payne's Valley! Whether you're craving their signature steaks, an awesome burger, or just a welcoming spot to grab a drink and catch up with friends, this episode is a fun-filled celebration of a true local success story. 😋🍽️🙌

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy is checking out the stunning new look at the corner of Sunshine and Glenstone! She sits down with Steve Belden, co-founder of Scratch & Co., to talk about bringing a true from-scratch dining experience to one of the busiest intersections in the Ozarks. From their number-one-selling beef stroganoff (inspired by Steve's mom!) to elevated spinach-and-mushroom dip, local art murals, and an amazing rooftop space with live music, this episode is a celebration of great food, local passion, and downtown community vibes. 🍽️✨

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy drops anchor downtown to visit 417 Cocktails and chats with owner, founder, and home-mixology wizard Mandi Fritz! What started as a fun pandemic-era creative outlet—making custom cocktail kits and syrups while video-chatting on Zoom with her sister—blossomed into a thriving retail shop. From stocking over 40 varieties of bitters (which Mandy loves using in everything from salad dressings to chocolate chip cookies!) to curating zero-proof spirits and gorgeous barware, this place is a dream for anyone looking to elevate their home bar. 🍸✨

Tune in to hear how Mandi pivoted from stay-at-home homeschooling mom to downtown store owner, why glassware and simple machines like the bar spoon matter, and how her mixology classes—including fun historical collaborations with the History Museum on the Square—make cocktail culture approachable and exciting. Whether you're a seasoned home bartender or just looking for a new syrup to spice up your morning coffee or evening mocktail, Mandi's passion for flavor and history makes this an episode you won't want to miss! 🧊🍋🥂

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy is visiting the cutest little patio spot on South Campbell for this episode: El Cafecito! She chats with co-owner Shanie Valdez about how she and her husband, Cristhian, built this vibrant, bilingual coffee shop and bakery that blends their love for specialty coffee with authentic Mexican culture and flavors. ☕🥐✨

Tune in to hear how Shanie and Cristhian's love story crossed language barriers with the help of Google Translate, how their popular Saturday morning run club grew out of a desire for connection, and why they consider this charming community-focused cafe a blessing. Whether you're craving a creative latte, a cozy breakfast, or a warm atmosphere where everyone feels at home, El Cafecito is a must-visit in the 417! 😋🍳🌺

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Celebrate 100 episodes of Savor the Ozarks with a true Springfield legend! 🎉 Joy sits down with Nicola Gilardi—the culinary icon behind beloved spots like Teatro, Gilardi’s, Nicola’s, and now Maso Pizza Bar. Nicola shares his incredible journey from growing up in a restaurant family near the Italian Alps to building a decades-long legacy in the 417. 🇮🇹🍕

Tune in for a fun, heartfelt conversation filled with stories about the local restaurant scene, the importance of supporting independent local businesses, what it's really like catering those epic Chiefs tailgates, and why Springfield became his forever home. It's a delicious milestone you won't want to miss! 🥂❤️✨

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy is proving that you don't need to be near the coast to find the freshest catch in town! She sits down with Chris Perkins, the owner of Seafood Express, to hear the wild story of how a former factory worker turned his passion for food into a full-blown mission to bring Gulf-fresh seafood to the 417. From the early days of hauling 500 pounds of shrimp in a pickup truck to operating a thriving warehouse and retail market today, Chris shares what it really takes to source and transport high-quality seafood across the Midwest. 🦐🌊

Whether you’re a seafood pro or a little intimidated by the kitchen, Chris and his team have you covered with everything from "cracked money" remoulade sauce to fresh-shucked oysters and authentic Cajun staples like boudin sausage and crawfish. It’s a fun, inside look at the passion behind a business that’s bringing a little bit of the Gulf Coast to Springfield, six days a week! 😋🦞✨

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Get ready to roll with some serious local inspiration! Joy is sitting down with Michael and Jenny Cho, the brilliant duo who turned a simple "what if" office game into the culinary phenomenon known as Craft Sushi! Their unique "bespoke" concept blends high-quality sushi with Michael’s authentic Korean family recipes, creating a fusion that’s as fresh as it is delicious. 🍣🥢
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From their "Springfield viral" moment during the pandemic to their exciting expansion into the new OTC Student Union, the Chos share how their commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients has kept the community coming back for eight years. Grab a roll, listen to their story, and find out why this local favorite is so much more than just another sushi spot! 😋🍱✨

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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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 sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy is taking a stroll downtown to visit the Ozarks Farm Stop on the corner of South Avenue and Walnut! She catches up with Karissa Kary to chat about how this amazing "farm stop" model is shaking things up by giving our local farmers a place to sell their goods six days a week without having to mind the store all day. It’s all about getting more money directly into the hands of the folks growing our food, which is such a win for our local community! 🍅🚜✨

The shop is so much more than your average grocery store—it’s a true hub where you can grab everything from fresh eggs and seasonal tomatoes to hand-painted beeswax art. Karissa even spills the beans on some fun plans for their big expanded back space, including a shared commercial kitchen that will act as an incubator for local startups, and hints at some exciting surprises coming this August! 😋🍯🥖T

hanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy is turning up the heat this week at one of Springfield’s most beloved spots: Crosstown BBQ! She dives into the "low-and-slow" life to chat about the family history behind the restaurant and even some fun topics like Chiefs football and an unexpected passion for electric football. It’s a savory, honest deep dive into the heart and soul that fuels every bite. 🍖🔥

Beyond the grill, Joy talks with the owner about the future, including thoughts on possible retirement and a special moment where he performed an original song about the restaurant live on stage at the Juanita K. Hammons Hall. Grab a stack of napkins and join Joy for this flavor-packed celebration of one of our favorite local institutions—it’s a smoky, heartfelt adventure you won’t want to miss! 😋🍽️

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Joy is back at the National Restaurant Show in Chicago, but this time she’s parked herself at the Taste of the States pavilion to spotlight the incredible family-run operations hailing from Arkansas! With nearly 18,000 square feet showcasing food from 21 states, this pavilion is a goldmine for discovering the passionate people behind the products that reach tables across the country.

Inside this episode:

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Della Rice: Joy sits down with Stephen Hilsdon to hear the inspiring story of how he and his wife purchased the rice mill where he worked to save the legacy and jobs of their small Brinkley community.

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Delta Dirt Distillery: Thomas Williams shares the amazing history of his family farm in Helena, which transitioned from sharecropping in the 1800s to a modern, award-winning distillery crafting spirits from—believe it or not—sweet potatoes.

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York Pecan Company: Meet the fifth generation of the York family as they break down the fascinating world of native pecans. Starnes York and Brittany Eshelman explain why the pecan is America’s only native tree nut and the intense, manual labor—yes, including climbing trees to pollinate by hand—that goes into every harvest.

Whether you’re a foodie interested in where your ingredients come from or just love a good story of small-town resilience and innovation, this episode celebrates the families and farmers who are putting Arkansas on the culinary map! 😋🥜🌾

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Joy catches up with Matt Mahan and the team behind Springfield’s Date Lady at the National Restaurant Association show in Chicago to discuss their journey from a small Commercial Street startup to a national presence. Founded by Colleen Sundley after she discovered the versatility of date syrup while living in the UAE, the company has pioneered the use of healthy, clean-label date sweeteners in the U.S. market. 🌴🍯
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Beyond their signature syrups, this conversation highlights the company's impressive growth and upcoming expansion into a new facility to launch a dedicated baking line for protein bars and chocolate chips. It is a high-energy look at how a locally-rooted business is successfully scaling its mission to provide nutritious, taste-forward alternatives for families and food service operators across the country! 😋✨

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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Buckle up, because Joy is on-locations at the National Restaurant Association show in Chicago! She’s diving into the weird and wonderful side of our food scene, starting with the legendary—and totally polarizing—Spam Dog. 🌭

While roaming the floor of the nation's biggest food show, Joy is also dishing on the latest industry trends and catching up with some local characters who keep Springfield’s dining scene vibrant. 📈👯 Grab a seat and join the party as we explore the quirky flavors and unpredictable spirit that make our community’s kitchens so special. It’s one flavor adventure you definitely don’t want to miss! 🎈✨

Thanks to our sponsors, Fazoli's, Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub, and Kitchenland USA!

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