Posts by John Burton
Local Flavor Branson Mo | AMAZING New Branson Restaurant
Local Flavor Branson Mo | AMAZING New Branson Restaurant
Brand new tasting passport at Silver Dollar City’s Bluegrass and BBQ Festival!
Is the new Tasting Passport at Silver Dollar City Worth it? Yes!
After trying out Silver Dollar City's Tasting Passport during the recent Street Fest and Dollywood's Dining Pass during their Flower and Food Festival, we were excited to see if Herschend Family Entertainment could outdo themselves.
The could. They did.
For $30 you receive a badge and lanyard that provides you many delectable options to choose from. At Dollywood you find a QR code on the Dining Pass that hangs around your neck. While a quick scan opens up an informative website with all of the food items and their locations in the park, we found Silver Dollar City's method preferrable.
Every option was printed clearly on the badge, or as Silver Dollar City calls it, the Passport. Additionally, everything could be seen in larger print in the Pathfinder, Silver Dollar City's free newspaper and park guide.
Opening day of the festival gave us perfect weather to walk the park and enjoy a great variety of bluegrass music and non-stop, diverse aromas as we passed by all of the various food stands and restaurants.
While we enjoyed our day at Dollywood recently, we didn't prefer the majority of the Dining Pass stops to be located in one section of the park. We found ourselves aimlessly wandering the nether regions of Dollywood wondering when we might stumble into a kiosk. It wasn't until we moved back toward the front of the park that we found the food.
At Silver Dollar City it's an entire park experience. The cooks are joyfully and artistically creating their edible masterpieces at every corner of the park. Whether you are on Main Street, by the Grand Exposition, near Mystic River Falls or down by Fire in the Hole, temptations abound.
The only time we had to ask for directions was for the last punch of our passport. I was desperately seeking a BBQ bacon mac and cheese waffle cone, but didn't know to look right on Main Street for the kiosk. A wonderful Silver Dollar City citizen pointed us in the right direction and before long I was devouring a waffle cone made out of fortune cookie batter filled with a curious and mouth watering mix.
Our favorite item of the day was probably the barbecue tater twist dog. It was truly amazing, and the portion size was large.
The Tasting Passport is not meant to be a meal replacement, but rather a fun and adventurous sampling of new and unique foods. While the idea is for each item to be snack sized, if you plan your day of tasting carefully, you'll find some samples are larger than others. In fact, like our tater twist dog, some are full sized.
We'd recommend considering eating a full meal at lunch and also purchasing a single Tasting Passport that can be used throughout the day for snacks and desserts. Between the two of us both times at Silver Dollar City and also once at Dollywood we purchased only one Passport and shared each of the five items. This worked great for us and we weren't at all hungry doing it this way. Of course, if you are zeroed in on treats others in your family are not, then you'll be very happy securing one all for yourself.
So, is the Tasting Passport worth it? We can't answer for everybody, but for us the answer is a resounding yes!
It does seem as if the portion sizes have increased some from the previous festival, which is great.
This time around we didn't get any desserts on the list. It took every ounce of restraint to say no to the temptations that were all around. Suffice it to say the desserts were our favorite foods the previous two festivals here and in Tennessee. My mouth is watering just thinking about them.
Time to get back to work in Branson, Missouri
Missouri Gov. Parson ends extra $300 federal jobless benefit
Millions of cabin fever afflicted people have started descending on the tourist destination of Branson, Missouri as businesses have struggled to fill open positions. The number of available jobs exceeds the number of job applicants due to the extended unemployment benefits. Many attractions, restaurants and other places of business have had to limit hours and capacity due to the shortage, greatly affecting the ability to serve guests at the level they desire.
Of course, Branson is well known for the amazing, friendly and hard working people, and those who have been working long hours during the current labor shortage are about to get a reprieve.
The Kansas City Star reports, “Missouri will halt additional unemployment benefits provided by the federal government during the pandemic next month, Gov. Mike Parson announced Tuesday. The move follows orders by Republican governors across the country to withdraw from the federal programs by the end of June to push workers back into the job market.”
“Despite our economy’s strong comeback many business owners and employers across the state are still struggling, not because of COVID-19, but because they can’t find people to fill the jobs to help address this labor shortage,” Parson said Tuesday.
The ownership of three businesses, Mel's Hard Luck Diner, Reflections and T Charlestons recently released a notice informing the public that they had to make the difficult decision to close on Mondays and Tuesdays.
“In my long career I have never experienced such a severe unemployment crisis. Our team members have been working long and strenuous hours since early March, serving a record number of visitors to our diner and shops and I appreciate so much their efforts. In the meantime, please be patient with us too as the waiting times for seating, your food or attention to your shopping needs may be longer than in the past.”
Missouri State Representative Brian Seitz recently submitted a letter to Missouri Governor Mike Parsons highlighting the labor crisis and encouraging him to take action.
“It's no secret that local businesses in the state of Missouri have been, and continue to be, harmed by our broken unemployment system. Local businesses in my district, specifically restaurants, are currently unable to fully staff for the coming tourist season because of the excessive and unnecessary generosity of federal assistance. With local businesses attempting to open back up after a disastrous year, the time is now to begin more carefully scrutinizing unemployment requests to ensure that those who are truly unable to find work get the help they need, but those that are able to find employment, actually return to work when jobs are available.”
Job fairs and ads have extended well beyond the time when they usually finish up in Branson. By now, most positions have been filled during typical years. Up and down the Strip and throughout downtown and the various corners of the Branson region you still see help wanted signs. Some of these businesses are closing very early or not opening at all on days they would normally be open.
People are in town and ready to invest their dollars into the region, but the opportunities for them to do so have not been as easy to find this year.
Some might have the question as to whether it's a good time to visit Branson due to the labor shortage. Many would suggest that it absolutely is. Though open days and hours are fewer, most every attraction, restaurant and business is open and excited to welcome guests. Many have already converged on Branson and had a full, fun vacation and it appears as if those who will be visiting the rest of the year will have additional smiling faces clocked in and ready to serve them.
Renaissance Festival | HUGE FUN in Central Missouri!
Renaissance Festival | HUGE FUN in Central Missouri!
John and Amy and the crew take you on a FUN TOUR of the Central Missouri Renaissance Festival in Kingdom City, Missouri!
Check out knight fighting, mermaids, delicious food, axe throwing, fun music, fire eating and MORE!
A Springfield Must See: Farmer’s Market of the Ozarks
A festival of food, flowers and fun in Springfield, Missouri!
As travel vloggers based in Branson, Missouri, we are always looking for something fun and unique to do. Over two years into our endeavor, one would think we'd be running out of things to do and see in the region. We have covered loads of attractions and restaurants in Branson specifically along with other places of interest near and far.
It's hard to believe this extremely popular and very well done farmer's market didn't ping our radar much sooner. It's truly amazing!
Located at the Farmer's Market Pavilion at 2144 E. Republic Road, the Farmer's Market of the Ozarks is easily accessible even though it sits hidden, tucked back behind a hotel. Once you zig and zag down some side streets, you'll know you are in the right place on a Saturday morning when you see throngs of people joyfully darting about.
Food trucks lined the entry way outside of the pavilion as did several booths. Surrounding the market was Aviary Cafe and Creperie, a barber shop, other upscale businesses and a roaming banjo player that made the experience all the better.
As is true for most farmer's markets, much of the enjoyment comes from engaging with the various business owners and employees who manned the booths. There's something about good ole' fashioned American entrepreneurship and ingenuity that feels healthy and right. The energy in the environment was palpable and we couldn't help but cheer for the smash success of every business represented.
Aside from the social aspect there was, of course, food! Flowers! Crafts! Goodies of all types!
Whether you want to try some honey sticks (as we did), pastries, jerky or kombucha, or find some farm fresh eggs, meats and other staples to take home, the Ozark's Farmer's Market is the place to be!
Our favorite experience of the day was street corn at the Corn Hub booth. Various concoctions of corn on the cob were prominently displayed and resistance was futile. We chose the barbeque adorned option and found a picnic table outside to savor our snack. Suffice it to say it was absolutely delicious. I can't recommend it enough. It would do you well to head down to the Farmer's Market Pavilion this Saturday and get an ear or two. The owners are great and their passion for their business is obvious.
As entrepreneurs ourselves, it was hard not to celebrate the festive atmosphere filled with fellow dreamers.
Even if you have no plans on purchasing anything, head on out for a visit. Enjoy the music, smell the aromas, meet some new friends and take notes for future visits. However, I'll warn you, window shopping is all but impossible. The enticing nature of the market will probably overwhelm you, and that's a very good thing. Whether it's duck meat, dog chews, smoothies, egg rolls, fresh and organic vegetables, kettle korn, banana bread, T-shirts or all flavors of honey, among many other options, you most certainly will give in.
The Farmer's Market of the Ozarks is open Saturdays from 8am until 1pm. In the winter, January through March, they are open 9am until 1pm. How great is it that Springfield, Missouri has a year around farmer's market? Really great!
If you are in the Branson area, they have a market there 3pm until 7pm on Tuesdays from April through October. We haven't visited that one yet, but we plan on it very soon!
For more information about Farmer's Market of the Ozarks, visit their website at www.loveyourfarmer.com.
Have you visited Farmer's Market of the Ozarks? Leave some comments and share your experience!
The Sights and Sounds of Dollywood! Commentary-FREE Tour!
The Sights and Sounds of Dollywood! Commentary-FREE Tour!
John and Amy take you a tour of Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. After a short intro, the video is free from commentary so you can enjoy the sights and sounds of this amazing Smokey Mountain theme park!
You'll see Dollywood's rides, water features, train, flowers, food and so much more!
For more videos just like this one, be sure to subscribe to the channel and turn notifications on!
The Haygoods Branson Mo | BACKSTAGE SECRETS!
The Haygoods Branson Mo | BACKSTAGE SECRETS!
John and Amy are BLOWN AWAY by The Haygoods in Branson, Missouri!
The show was an adventure from beginning to end. If you are looking for the best shows in Branson, The Haygoods MUST be on your list!
Then, they head backstage and meet the amazing family AND see some incredible tech and learn some amazing secrets about what makes the show come together!
The Local Goat: A Lunchtime Review
Never underestimate the power of goats.
We had the entire day planned out, and it was slam packed full of food and fun. There certainly wasn't any space for another meal on the agenda. Well, that was until a goat changed everything. The power of goats is very real, my friend.
My wife Amy and I were sitting atop horses, meandering down a lonely trail (as all wannabe cowboys do, right?) when we saw an adorable goat on the other side of a fence. The cutie and his or her goat brothers and sisters reminded Amy of another goat encounter the previous day: goats on a roof. She told the trail guide that we never get suckered into tourist trap style souvenir shops, but this one in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee had GOATS ON THE ROOF! We were drawn into this shop by the power of goats. Their power was about to seduce us yet again.
Immediately after our trail ride at Smokey Mountain Deer Farm we were on our way to Dollywood to shoot some video of us indulging in a myriad of treats at their Flower and Food Festival. We were going to purchase the new Dining Pass and capture the experience of us devouring incredible offerings. After that? We'd be celebrating our son Skylar's birthday in Nashville with a huge meal at the restaurant of his choice. There was no room for more food. Except, there most definitely was. We couldn't say no to the goat.
THE LOCAL GOAT—PIGEON FORGE, TENNESSEE
We had heard quite a bit about The Local Goat and were amazed at how their large parking lot was always full as we drove down the strip in Pigeon Forge. It was definitely a restaurant we wanted to try, especially after reading a review from someone who confessed to driving fourteen hours to eat there. Insanity, right? Or, maybe not.
In addition to all of the food we scheduled to shove deep into our bellies that day, we had already gorged ourselves on incredible southern cooking at other culinary hot spots in town. Honestly, we weren't all that excited about ever eating again. Yet, the goat was calling.
We had heard that it was nearly impossible to get a table at The Local Goat without reservations or a very long wait. Our busy day wouldn't allow for any wait at all, and we were thrilled that they were able to seat us immediately. It was meant to be.
The restaurant was jam packed and as we were led to our tables we did what most others do in the same scenario: we covertly scanned the room and checked out what was on everybody's plates. Oh man, were we in trouble. Very wonderful trouble.
I wanted most everything on the menu. I was zeroed in on the shrimp and grits. Our server recommended it and it's one of my all-time favorite meals. Amy had other ideas, though. She thought splitting a burger was the way to go since we'd be eating again in less than an hour or two at Dollywood. My bulging gut agreed, but my watering mouth did not. I was ready for my own meal plus an appetizer or two, or three. Her wisdom prevailed, however, and as usual, I'm glad it did.
I did start with an appetizer, deep fried deviled eggs. One of their signature dishes was a must have and, wow, was I happy with my choice. They had a bit of a spicy kick to them and the flavor was incredible. I ate every egg on my plate as Amy, a victim to a gluten allergy, watched longingly. I haven't seen that look in her eyes since we were dating almost 30 years ago. At least I didn't have to share.
While we were wowed by the various plates full of food that servers were delivering to tables all around us, including a fluffy mountain of onion rings that I almost lunged out of my booth at, we knew our limits.
Our blue cheese saturated, medium cooked burger arrived on a gluten free bun alongside some skinny fries and homemade ketchup. There was also a side of crispy onion straws specifically for me as I am completely unafraid of getting glutened.
Of course we had to have dessert, right? Wrong. Impossible, actually. Not only could we not consider another bite of food, no matter how tempting it was, we had to record that video for our travel channel. Five different orders of food awaited us at Dollywood in mere minutes.
Have you tried desserts at The Local Goat? Leave a comment and let everybody know your recommendations. In fact, what are some of your other favorites? appetizers? Burgers? Sandwiches? Entrees?
Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg have some ridiculously good restaurants. But now we understand a little better why they are nearly in need of a traffic cop to direct people in and out of this destination.
THE VERDICT
Mouth-wateringly delicious. All of it. The goat was right.
Would we drive fourteen hours to eat at The Local Goat? No. I mean, honestly, who would? Except for that one guy. I have some absolute favorite restaurants scattered all over the nation, but there's not one that I'd jump into the car and drive from sunup to sundown to enjoy. Suffice it to say, if we are anywhere near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, we will yield to the mystical BAAAAAA! echoing through the mountains as it leads us right into the overflow parking lot at The Local Goat. We'll just be sure to have reservations.
Smoky Mountain Horseback Riding | Smokey Mountain Deer Farm Riding Stables
Smoky Mountain Horseback Riding | Smokey Mountain Deer Farm Riding Stables
John and Amy had a HILARIOUS time on this 45-minute trail ride through the Smokey Mountains!
Is The Dining Pass Worth It? Dollywood Flower And Food Festival
Is The Dining Pass Worth It? Dollywood Flower And Food Festival
John and Amy head out to the Flower and Food Festival at Dollywood and check out several of the food options with the Dining Pass. Is it worth it to get the Dining Pass? Watch and see.
AND, John and Amy were thrilled to have run into Will and Dawn from Yankee in the South!
Check out their channel at www.youtube.com/yankeeinthesouth!