Savor The Ozarks

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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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