Social on Patton's Hot Chicken Karaage

1. Check out the Hot Chicken Karaage with pickles, kimchi mayo, green onion and pickled onion at Social on Patton (314 S. Patton Ave., Springfield). With the skin and texture of the best Asian-style chicken and the flavors of Nashville, it’s a mashup we didn’t know we needed.

2. Moscow mules from Missouri Spirits (507 W. Walnut St., Springfield) are a sure bet for a great cocktail. The flavors and varieties change, so the specials are always a bit of a surprise. But they are made with Missouri Spirits liquor and are always top-notch.

3. When we’re not in the mood for meat, we gravitate to the grilled vegetable focaccia sandwich from Bruno’s Italian Restaurant (416 South Ave., Springfield). Hearty eggplant, peppers, zucchini and onions top homemade bread and are bound with fontina cheese, pesto and balsamic vinaigrette.

4. The perfectly sharable Oysters Rockefeller appetizer from Touch Restaurant & Oyster House (1620 E. Republic Road, Springfield) is a happy hour favorite. The oysters are topped with bacon, Touch’s lobster bisque and crispy breadcrumbs.

5. We are suckers for the macaron ice cream sandwiches from The Press Coffee & Juice Bar (2144 E. Republic Road, Suite A102, Springfield, 417-501-1014). Sweet and creamy ice cream is perfectly packed between two delicate macarons.

6. For something super-hearty when you get  post-movie munchies, the Jalapeno N’ Cheese Bratwurst Sliders are a must try from The Backlot at Alamo Drafthouse (4005 South Ave., Suite A, Springfield). Bonus: They feature brats from Hörrmann Meats and sauerkraut made with Springfield Brewing Co. beer. 

7. We love the sweet-and-spiced combo of the mango guacamole from Arnie’s Barn (150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale). It features pickled chili peppers, grilled mango and smoky paprika.