Springfield, Missouri. Home to Andy's Frozen Custard Headquarters, The World's Largest Fork, Birthplace of Route 66, and the home of the Missouri State University Bears. This town is full of college students, and locals with some of the coolest eats, and hangouts around. From Uptown chic and trendy eats, to classic family owned businesses and diners, we have it all. As a junior, I've gotten to navigate around the town a bit, and get to experience some of the best (and worst ) experiences in my life. However, I would not trade any of those experiences for the wonderful college town I live in, 9 out of the 12 months of the year. I narrowed it down to 11 of the best places for great food and drinks that any incoming Freshman needs to try out their first year in college.

1. Kai After Dark

A sushi restaurant and bar located in Downtown Springfield. Not only is the food excellent at this establishment but the overall aesthetic and look is as well. This place also offers "college night" and rolls and drinks are reduced to about half the price. The normal price is also not terrible for a sushi restaurant, and there is quite the variety when it comes to rolls and dishes. Kai also has a sister restaurant Haruno, which has almost the exact same menu. Try the Yummy Roll and the lobster Rangoon's, you won't regret it.

2. Big Whiskey's

Classic Bar and Grill scene, basic American style food, located in other cities as well, but still a Springy favorite. The best thing about this place is the half price apps. You'll find some fantastic buffalo chicken dip here along with an assortment of others. Look out for their happy hour, that's the best deal for us college kids.

3. Pineapple Whip

Otherwise know as Pwhip, this iconic seasonal mobile establishment serves the best pineapple and other assorted flavors in a soft-serve, sherbet, ice-cream like consistency. No one really knows if it's really ice cream, sherbet, snow cones, or what, all we really know is that it will blow your mind. It's kind of like a dole whip from the Zoo or Disney World. Strawberry Kiwi is a personal favorite of mine, but Classic Pineapple is a solid go to.

4. Springfield Brewing Company (SBC)

Brewery and Restaurant, featuring locally crafted beer and great grub. This place is appropriate for people of all ages, and perfect for Family Weekend, Mom's Weekend, best friends coming down, or birthday celebrations. Great Atmosphere, Great Company, and the best Mac n' Cheese/ Chicken Strips you can EVER get. 10/10 would recommend.

5. Bambino's Cafe

Classic take on Italian cuisine. Very close to campus, virtually across the street. Heartwarming atmosphere, great employees. They have several locations but the original is walking distance. Portions are huge so come prepared to eat plenty.

6. Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar

Stylish steakhouse serves a multitude of steaks and cuts, along with seafood,and an extensive wine list. Be prepared to spend a lot more dough than the average student can splurge. A very treat yourself environment, great to bring the parents here when they are feeling extra nice. You'll defiantly leave happy and full, and a slight dent in your pocket from this place.

7. BYOPizza

Build your own pizza is a spunky little pizza shop where you can build your own personal pizza from scratch. Any topping you could imagine they have, along with sauce, crust, and drinks. Great time and place to hangout with some pals on the weekends. Located Downtown, but closer to campus and next to the YMCA.

8. Hurts Donuts

This donut shop started in Springfield, is known for its crazy twists on donuts and their classics as well. Located in Heart of Downtown Springfield, you can find people getting their donut fix on at any hour, since this place is open 24/7! Try some of their crazy donuts like the maple bacon, cookie monster, nutella, coco-puff, etc. The only regret you'll have is if you finish an entire dozen by yourself, and have a major stomach ache. So "You Wanna Hurts Donut?"

9. Black Sheep Burgers and Shakes

A trendy and hip, gourmet burger, fry, and shake restaurant located downtown. These burgers are piled high with toppings, and the fries are so good, you wont be able to restrain yourself. Along with regular shakes, they offer Boozy shakes as well for those of age. It is a little on the pricey side, so try it out if you can! Another great spot to take the parents as well. The Baah sauce and Salt n' Vinegar fries are TO DIE FOR!!!

10. George's Family Restaurant

Classic Diner- family friendly feel, perfect for a great and cheap breakfast. Georges offers a very affordable meal called the recession proof breakfast available all DAY. This meal costs either $3 or $5 and comes with an abundance of breakfast options that will leave you more than full. You also get an additional student discount so the meal could be even cheaper. They are open from 5:30 Am to 10 pm, so if you need an early morning or a late night meal, they have it. Great pie, and desserts, also, love the employees, they really make it a family friendly environment.

11. Ebbets Field

Sports bar and grill, serving some of the best wings and french fries you can find on Historic Walnut Street. Perfect walking distance from campus, located in a walnut style home. Come watch any of your favorite sports team play and enjoy a cold one with some friends. Great patio scene.

So whenever you're looking for a new scene away from the beloved dining hall, feel free to check out some of these great spots. There are plenty more, but these are some of my favorites. Enjoy your first year as a bear!