Tessa Cooper

Tessa Cooper

Hi! I am Tessa Cooper, 417 Magazine's contributing food writer. I've been covering Midwest food and lifestyle topics for more than half a decade. My idea of a perfect meal is a slice of wood-fired pizza with a glass of Lillet Blanc, preferably enjoyed outside on a spring day.

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Before and After Brewing's Non-Alcoholic Bartender's Handshake

Food & Drink

A Sip-Sized Review of Before and Afer Brewing's Non-Alcoholic Bartender's Handshake

Before & After Brewing’s non-alcoholic version of their beloved Bartender’s Handshake cocktail.

nov 2025

Espresso and pastries in Rogersville, MO.

Food & Drink

Italian Coffee & French Croissants in Rogersville

Head to Empire Coffee in Rogersville for a taste of Italy in the form of espresso and pastries.

nov 2025

Owner of the Mythical 'Wich in Branson, MO.

Food & Drink

Meet the Sandwich Slingers: Mythical ‘Wich

“In a way, it’s Ozarks fusion cuisine, which makes it unique. I don’t think there are a whole lot of people out there doing that.”—Brad...

nov 2025 | Food

Queen City Deli owner

Food & Drink

Meet the Sandwich Slingers: Queen City Deli

“I always take sandwiches apart. I dissect them to see what they’ve got going on.”—Jay Parrino, Queen City Deli

nov 2025 | Food

The Submarina

Food & Drink

Meet the Sandwich Slingers: The Submarina

The Submarina boasts a chicken salad with a cult following that sells it out on the regular, and a made-in-house potato salad is...

nov 2025 | Food

The Sub Shop owner

Food & Drink

Meet the Sandwich Slingers: The Sub Shop

“It needs good texture and flavor profiles, from crunchy to smooth, sweet to salty, spicy to vinegary.”—Ethan Seehusen, The Sub Shop.

nov 2025 | Food

One Veteran’s Personal Journey From War to Reconciliation

Lifestyle

One Veteran’s Personal Journey From War to Reconciliation

This Veteran’s Day, wounded-in-action veteran Larry Rottmann shares his life and creative talents through firsthand accounts of the Vietnam...

nov 2025

Dish from La Roux Bistro in Springfield, MO.

Food & Drink

We Review La Roux Bistro

A trip to La Roux Bistro delights the taste buds with made-from-scratch food. An enchanting atmosphere evokes wonder.

nov 2025

Fried Pickles from JW's Kitchen in Springfield, MO.

Food & Drink

Why the Fried Pickles from JW's Kitchen are Worth It

Head to JW’s Kitchen for perfectly crispy fried pickles.

nov 2025

Luna Modern Mexican guacamole

Food & Drink

Why You Should Try Luna Modern Mexican's Tableside Guacamole

You've got to get the guac at Luna's Modern Mexican. Here's why.

nov 2025

Sandwich collage

Food & Drink

Your Guide to Sandwiches in Springfield

Hungry? We’ve got your ultimate guide to must-try sandwiches from around Springfield and the Ozarks.

nov 2025 | Food

Food from Pasture Plate, Ozarks Farm Stop in Springfield, MO.

Table Talk

Springfield Food News

Read all about what's happening with the food scene in Springfield in this week's Table Talk.

oct 28 2025 | Drinks, Food, Food Trucks, Seafood