7 Good Things: January 2007

1. BARBECUE OF THE MONTH "I don't think we have covered Downtown Barbecue in Willard yet, and I'd like to nominate them. It is not fancy dining, but the place is always packed and has some of the best BBQ brisket ever!!" —Dori Allen
Downtown Barbecue, 104 W. Jackson St., Willard, 417-742-1131

2. DESSERT FETISH "Raspberry soufflé at Sullivan's." —Gary Whitaker
Sullivan's Steakhouse, Branson Landing, Ste. 915, Branson, 417-337-8200

3. HOT "The lobster roll at Haruno... it comes with a wasabi cream sauce that is to die for." —Dylan Whitaker
Haruno, 3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-887-0077

4. ST. LOUIS ++ PHILADELPHIA = CRAZY GOOD "The Grilled Chicken Philly at Lenny's: This is the best sandwich I have ever had. Katie Pollock said it reminds her of White Castle burger, which is quite an accomplishment for them because all those St. Louis folks will flock there once they hear the news." —Kari Engel
Lenny's Sub Shop, multiple locations in 417-land

5. IS THIS HEAVEN? "Pipers Place is simply amazing. I know we've written about them, but seriously, wow!  The food is amazing, and their guacamole is top notch. I love the Bermuda Triangle sandwich, but my girlfriend is in love with their monstrous club. A friend had their nachos, and I sampled them. They're unbelievable. Not to mention their draft specials... $1.25 pints for happy hour." —Scott Perket
Piper's Place, 2101 W. Chesterfield Blvd., Springfield, 417-823-7589

6. ZIPPY TAMALES "I had lunch at Doe's yesterday...fabulous fried shrimp, great crispy salad and the tamales are as good as dinner tamales. In and out in less than an hour." —Debbie Ophoven
Doe's Eat Place, 1232 E. Trafficway, Springfield, 417-869-3637

7. 2ND-DAY DELIGHT "The white chicken pizza at J. Buck's. Lots of cheese. Lots of garlic. What's not to love? It's even good cold." —Joan Whitaker
J. Buck's Restaurant, Battlefield Mall, 417-823-7167

SEND US YOUR TIPS We know readers have opinions, too. Share your favorite food-and-drink discoveries by sending an e-mail to editor@417mag.com, subject line "7 Good Things." We'll print them in this space. Make sure to include your first and last name and the name of the town where you live. —Compiled by Gregory Holman