SPRINGFIELD, MO: Jimm's Steakhouse and Pub (and other attractions)

I recently spent three nights in Springfield, Missouri and was reminded that every place has interesting things to see and do. You just have to look for them.

Springfield is home to the original (and, at one time, the world's largest) Bass Pro Shop, which includes an award-winning aquarium. About four miles south is the World’s Largest Fork. Standing 35 feet tall, it is the largest fork by mass, at 11 tons.

World's Largest Fork

Near the western edge of the city are the global headquarters and training facility for an amazing humanitarian and disaster relief organization called Convoy of Hope. Convoy distributes food, supplies and humanitarian services to disaster survivors and impoverished populations in the U.S. and around the world

Springfield is also home to several very good restaurants including my Friday night favorite, Jimm’s Steakhouse and Pub. Situated just east of the hospital district, Jimm’s is famous for its prime rib. For dinner on my last night in town, I headed over.

Taking a seat at the bar, bartenders Laura (who bears a striking resemblance to Anna Kendrick), and Annalise were very attentive. Water and menus were brought without even asking, and they asked if I wanted any recommendations. I did not, as I had seen the prime rib special advertised elsewhere, and I am a huge fan of a good prime rib. Rubbed with rosemary, garlic and onion and served with a burgundy au jus, I anticipated an ascent into heavenly realms.

Starters: Wedge salad and bread

But first, wine and salad. I started with a glass of Primitivo and a wedge salad with bleu cheese and bacon crumbles, along with a loaf of freshly baked bread. As I was enjoying those, Laura took my order for an 8 oz. piece of prime rib ("As rare as you can find it," I asked) with a loaded baked potato. She recommended skillet mushrooms sautéed in red wine, and I happily accepted.

Prime rib, loaded baker and mushrooms

The main course arrived and everything was delightful! The prime rib was excellent, and made even better by the au jus and the raw horseradish on the side. The loaded baked potato was also very tasty, as were the mushrooms (which I wound up sharing with another gentleman at the bar because the skillet was THAT generous).

For dessert? Despite being tempted by the creme brûlée and others, I chose a second glass of Primitivo.

All in, the bill was $61 plus change. A $15 tip for the excellent service I was provided and dinner was still in "bargain" territory. And the atmosphere was old-school steakhouse, with some retro vibe but everything kept up and well maintained.

Jimm's has a wide range of beef and seafood offerings so, no matter what your preference, you'll likely find something here to enjoy. Happy hour from 3 to 5, and excellent food and service all night long!

Visit my main page at TheTravelPro.us for more news, reviews, and personal observations on the world of upmarket travel.

Photos by Carl Dombek
Click on photo to view larger size.

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