The Chicken Parmesan at Piccolo

1. Chicken Parmesan at Piccolo

When it comes to hearty Italian classics, look no further than the chicken Parmesan at Piccolo (107 West Aldersgate Drive, Nixa, 417-374-7291), which comes with a side of fettuccine Alfredo and a salad. At a restaurant where you really can’t go wrong, this dish stands out as one of our favorites.

2. Caramel Creme Brulee French Toast at Alamo Drafthouse

The caramel creme brulee French toast at Alamo Drafthouse (4005 South Ave., Springfield, 417-708-9599), a sweet and savory dish made with cinnamon and powdered sugar and served with a side of fruit, is an especially perfect complement to an early-morning showing. Brunch and a movie—what could be better? 

3. Oriental Express Roll from Haruno Sushi Bar & Grill

The Oriental Express Roll from Haruno Sushi Bar & Grill (3044 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, 417-887-0077) packs a ton of punch: Tuna, red snapper, squid, crab, avocado, masago, tamago, yellow radish, gourd shavings, wasabi, green onion, nemo sauce, sriracha, ponzu sauce and sesame oil all come together for a multilayered bite.

4. To Brie or Not to Brie at Cherry Picker Package + Fare

In addition to serving as a fantastic bit of wordplay, the To Brie or Not to Brie sandwich at Cherry Picker Package + Fare (601 S. Pickwick Ave., Springfield, 417-986-5800) is delectable with Circle B Ranch ham, brie cheese wedges and apricot preserves on an Artisan’s Oven baguette.

5. L'affumicata at Bruno's Italian Restaurant

If you like to get a bit fancy with your pizza, try the L’affumicata at Bruno’s Italian Restaurant (416 South Ave., Springfield, 417-866-0007). It shines in its simplicity—mushrooms, bacon and chicken mesh together perfectly for a salty crunch.

6. The Painkiller at Golden Girl Rum Club

You could throw a dart at the drink menu at Golden Girl Rum Club (137 Park Central Square, Springfield, 417-425-5162) and come away happy, but our personal preference is the painkiller, made with Pussers Rum, coconut cream, pineapple and orange and garnished with nutmeg and toasted coconut.

7. Porchetta at Market House Cafe and Bake Shop

There’s a ton of mouth-watering options on the menu at Market House Cafe and Bake Shop (113 N. Second St., Ozark, 417-551-4370), but we are partial to the porchetta, a sandwich with slow roasted shredded pork shoulder, gremolata sauce and caper aioli. It’s all served on grilled house-made rosemary garlic ciabatta.