Springfield, Missouri is truly full of a bunch of gems that deserve a little more credit than some of them may get. As a college town, Springfield is flourishing with every business in the book from the biggest of corporations (Bass Pro Headquarters), to the smallest of coffee shops (Potter's House). Below is a list of 10 local businesses you should be supporting, and why they deserve your money.
1. Potter's House
https://www.instagram.com/p/B5A0W5NHODP/
This small, cozy coffee shop is just a short walk from the campus of Missouri State University. They offer a variety of coffees as well as smoothies for the non-coffee lover. Owner, Steve, runs this amazing not-for-profit and couldn't keep going without the continuous support of the community.
2. Ott's Pasta
https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Italian-Restaurant/Otts-Pasta-120397524643358/
Ott's Pasta is a small building just down Cherry street, a bit tucked away. This place offers the most amazing pasta meal for such an affordable price, it's incredibly hard to pass up. For just a little over $6 you get a full portion of the pasta of your choice, a small side salad, and some bread. So next time you're craving pasta, remember to stop by Ott's and eat local!
3. Andy B's
https://www.instagram.com/p/B-sTm0rljc2/
There are so many reasons why Andy B's deserves your support. This is more than just a bowling alley. Andy B's offers two different sides of lanes, one side being black light and full of fun music and video screens. They also offer an arcade, laser tag, and a full menu of food and drinks.
4. Andy's Frozen Custard
https://www.instagram.com/p/B6yKRK9HwNv/
Andy's Frozen Custard is so much more than ice cream and tastes so much better too. There are a variety of flavors from the original vanilla and chocolate to the Springfield favorites like the Boot Daddy and the Jack Hammer. Why go to Braums when you can get the delicious taste of Andy's?
5. Springfield Brewing Company
https://www.instagram.com/p/B7MRaqanSti/
Needing a fun atmosphere, some good food, maybe even a drink? Springfield Brewing Company has some amazing food from buffalo Mac and cheese to breakfast pizza and they even locally brew all of their beer and make their own root beer. And to make it even better, after stuffing yourself to a point where you don't know when you'll be able to eat again, you can take a walk downtown to find even more treasures.
6. Pineapple Whip
https://www.instagram.com/p/B_XzsY1Fswv/
One of the best specialties that Springfield has to offer. Pineapple, mango, grape, nanagranate, and so many more. If you're wanting a bit of a change from a normal dessert, this should definitely be your go to. Available in cones or pints for a super cheap price and now accepting cards and drive up orders! What more could you want?!
7. Bambino's
https://www.instagram.com/p/BfbyA6YhaWg/
The BEST local Italian that Springfield has to offer. All freshly made with a menu variety including pastas, salads, pizzas, and so much more. This made-by-scratch Italian is the best you will ever taste, and you can trust me on that. They also offer an amazing lunch deal every weekday.
8. Bair's Sports Bar
https://www.instagram.com/p/lZ74jRwv0Y/
If you're looking for a burger, this is definitely the place to go. With a menu of over 60 burgers, they're going to have absolutely exactly what you are looking for. And if you can't find what you're wanting even from that large option, you can either build your own burger or choose something else off the menu of a wide variety including chicken strips.
9. Hinode Japanese Steakhouse
https://www.instagram.com/p/B45MvC-nx_e/
No doubt the best Japanese food that Springfield has to offer and to make it even better, they cook it right in front of you. They offer a whole show with so much food that you will no doubt walk away with nearly an entire meal to eat either later that day or the day after. Sit down and enjoy the best meal you'll have.
10. Wonders of Wildlife
https://www.instagram.com/p/B_Vk2Dcl2sr/
Almost an all day activity that provides entertainment for all ages. There are all sorts of animals here from penguins to flamingos and even a bald eagle with two different sides. One of these sides is full of fascinating life-size stuffed animals to learn all about them and their environment.
Although all of these businesses may not currently be open, there are still ways to help them out. Places like Andy B's and Wonders of Wildlife may be closed but you can always buy gift cards for the future to provide them with the income that they are missing out on in these trying times. Remember, curbside and carry out of these business are so important to keep the treasures of Springfield afloat.
