From “The Q”

August 30, 2019

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There’s a special area of Springfield that you might have missed, and if you have, you’re missing out. “The Q”, an endearing title coined by Chamber staff, is categorized by the collection of businesses that surround Q Street in Springfield, including Pioneer Plaza and some businesses a bit east. Businesses, including the restaurants and eateries in the area, are making this area a great place to stop to eat, shop, and more. Savor Springfield, a passport dining event taking place this September, has expanded is city-wide in 2019, and includes several restaurants in the area. We interviewed three businesses in “The Q” that are new participants to Savor Springfield – Sonny’s Tavern, Oishii Sushi, and Jazzie’s Bar & Grill. We asked them a few questions about why they’re excited to participate, and why you should make them a stop on your Savor Springfield adventure. Check out their interviews below, and make sure to stop by each place this month to get a stamp on your Savor Springfield Passport!

Sonny’s Tavern

Why did you choose to participate in Savor Springfield this year, and what are you looking forward to in being a part of it?

Sonny’s has been a chamber member as long as I have been an employee as Manager and as owner since 2006. My previous employment was with Springfield Country Club where I was the General Manager and part of the committee for the annual Chamber Golf Tournament, one of the most enjoyable annual tournaments hosted at the club, so my ties go back for a great period of time. I look forward to Sonny’s being part of any hospitality event that brings chamber members together to meet each other and share their interests and promote each other.

What makes your tavern unique?

Sonny’s is a Tavern. We offer nostalgic games with five pool tables, darts, shuffleboard, weekly cribbage tournaments and more. We cater to everyone of all legal ages, and our goal is to make everyone feel at home. Sonny Jenkins, who built the establishment, was the daily draw for regulars as he was always behind the bar. He hired me and I took over as the daily bartender to listen to everyone’s trials and tribulations. When I purchased the business in 2006, I hired a great friend, Denise Plumlee, who is now the personality of the tavern, and will be the next owner. Nostalgia, legacy, friendliest and cleanliness are the reason we have been in business for over fifty years. We also offer quality pub food from breakfast, lunch to dinner everyday, as well as great adult libations.

What do you like about your location on Q Street?

Everything. Easy access from fifth and Q and plenty of parking.

What’s another business in Q street that you work with or you would recommend?

Jazzie’s Bar & Grill, in the shopping complex west of Safeway. Jazzies used to be a video deli, and Andrea Hastings purchased it and renovated it into a bar with video plus great food and a bar. It’s small and quaint, but always a pleasure to visit. Andrea’s personality makes you smile when you walk into the door, and her employees Anne, Monique and Levon all do the same.

Oishii Sushi

Why did you choose to participate in Savor Springfield this year, and what are you looking forward to in being a part of it?

This will be my first time to participte in Savor Springfield. I think this will be a super fun event and will be a great opportunity to promote Oishii Sushi.

What is unique about the kaiten (conveyor belt) style of dining?

Conveyor belt sushi , “rotation sushi” is a form of sushi restaurant common in Japan. Guests can come in, sit down and start eating right away. This is super convenient for people who are in a short lunch break or for people just don’t like to wait. People will see all different kinds of sushi right in front of them on color coded plates rotating in front of them on the “Conveyor Belt”, instead of on a menu or through pictures. They can grab anything they like on the belt or they can make special orders with our staffs. Furthermore, the prices are more affordable while compared to a sushi bar.

What do you like about your location on Q Street?

Oishii Sushi is located at the Pioneer Plaza. We have a variety of stores and services here, such as a gym, UPS, hair-cut, pet food, donuts, clothing, and other restaurants. We also have the only Safeway in Springfield here. This is a one-stop shop place for multiple needs in the Springfield area. The location is very convenient as it is just right off the highway and is accessible by bus.

What’s another business in Q street that you work with or you would recommend?

I will recommend Bizzy Jean’s Donuts on the same plaza. They make fresh and delicious donuts daily. The staffs and owner are very friendly.

Jazzie’s Bar & Grill

Why did you choose to participate in Savor Springfield this year, and what are you looking forward to in being a part of it?

It’s a great way to get Jazzies’ name out there and advertise along with other businesses. It’s a great way for small businesses to come together. Meeting new people is always a plus! Trying new things. Always enjoys being a part of the chambers advertising and or event is always a plus and beneficial.

What makes your bar & grill unique?

We have large mugs of beer great prices great food we are a small little hide out you can come and enjoy yourself. We used to only be lottery; I’m new to the hospitality business. We now offer burgers, entrée salads, and more.