Springfield Food News

Good Food that Does Good

In light of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) freeze, multiple local restaurants are making efforts to keep our community fed. Feel free to screenshot and share this list so anyone who needs it can see, and be sure to go out and support these restaurants as a thank you if you’re able. And if you’re looking for other ways to help families during the SNAP pause, we’ve rounded up a list for you. (Editor's note: As of Monday, November 3,  SNAP benefits had been partially reinstated, although benefits are reduced by about 50% and distribution of funds is delayed.)

• Druff’s announced this past week that they are offering discounted meals to those impacted. In response, customers donated a whopping total of $1,540 to help pay for those meals. Now, these meals will be entirely free.

• Several businesses in the Rountree neighborhood have taken inspiration from Druff’s and announced via their Instagram stories that they will be offering discounts to families who have lost their benefits during the month of November (based on the honor system). They are matching Druff’s original deal, which is half off and redeemable on a weekly basis. These businesses include Team Taco, La Mère Bakery and Sleepy Opossum.

• Rebar Kitchen & Taproom is offering free kid meals all week. No purchase necessary, no questions asked, and no mention needed. This week, they are also donating one dollar from every meal sold (Monday through Friday) to help local families in need.

• From November 3–7, both Hy-Vee locations will provide a free kid’s meal to those ages 12 and under from 4–7 p.m. The same meal will be available to everyone else for $3 and will be offered for dine-in or to go.

A Holly Jolly Time at J.O.B. Public House

Whether or not you believe it’s socially acceptable to start celebrating Christmas before Thanksgiving, the countdown is on. Next week, on November 12, J.O.B Public House is opening the doors to its Christmas pop-up bar, J.Ho.Ho.B. (located next door), and you'd best prepare to be dazzled. We went last year, and can confidently say that just a few minutes inside will get you in the Christmas spirit. We’re talking loads of Christmas lights, full-sized Christmas trees hanging upside down from the ceilings and wrapping paper covering so many surfaces. And as far as festive cocktails go, they deliver. Last year, they served five festive and decadent drinks. We can’t wait to check it out!  ❄️

The Daily Blend is Now Open ☕️

A couple of weeks ago, we mentioned The Daily Blend, a new coffee shop opening on the first floor of the Plaza Towers. We’re happy to report that they are officially open and ready to help you start your day. The offering we are most excited about is the bagels, delivered fresh three times a week from New York. They’re serving three types of loaded bagels, including smoked salmon, bacon and cheddar and lemon and blueberry. On the beverage side of things, you’ll find signature coffee drinks and smoothies. The brown butter and salted caramel is particularly calling our name, and the smoothie lineup also sounds delicious with offerings like a peanut butter, banana and dark chocolate smoothie.

Itty Bitty Foodie Event Roundup

• If you’re looking for a way to dine among the gorgeous fall foliage this weekend, Wild Foods by Dyllan is hosting a Wild Thanksgiving Pop-Up at Juniper Gardens on November 8.

• Pickwick & Cherry is hosting a Scandinavian Date Night Cooking Experience this weekend. Learn how to make hygge-inspired delights like Swedish meatballs with lingonberry, creamy root vegetable soup and house-cured gravlax on seed bread.

• On November 8, Before and After Brewing is hosting an Infant Mixer for new parents to meet like-minded pals in the same stage of life.

• This may only appeal to a niche group of you, but Millsap Farms is teaming up with Hand Hewn Farm to offer a home hog butchery workshop on November 21. Only 10 tickets are available for this hands-on experience, so act fast.

Start Planning Your Thanksgiving

I can’t believe it’s already time to start making Thanksgiving plans! On that note, I will be working on updating our roundup of where to order Thanksgiving meals. Send a message to yum@417mag.com if you know of a place I should include. One new one I am adding to the lineup is Show Me Chuy. They are offering a Thanksgiving dinner package this year, complete with a whole deboned turkey and all the classic sides. You can place an order by calling 417-771-5357.