A monthly newsletter for local flavor, food fun, and community cheer!
???? Hey There, Heartland!
Spring has officially sprung, and with it comes a flurry of fresh eats, friendly faces, and foodie updates from all across the region. From melty mac to music-inspired cocktails, there’s no shortage of flavor this April. Let’s dig in!
????️ 1. Local News Roundup
???? New Restaurants & Openings
Ronnie’s Mac and Cheese Bar – Opened March 1. A custom mac experience that brings comfort food to a whole new level of cheesy delight.
Twisted Biscuit Brunch Company – Opened March 19 at 205 South Mount Auburn Road, Cape Girardeau. This biscuit-forward brunch spot is already winning fans with its bold flavors and brunch classics.
???? Crumbl Cookies – Location Confirmed! ???? Cape is about to smell a whole lot sweeter! Crumbl Cookies is officially landing at 3324 Campster Drive, right next to Teriyaki Madness. Keep your eyes peeled for their signature pink box and rotating cookie lineup—opening later this spring.
Relish Sandwich Bar + Social Club – Had a soft opening in the final days of March, and they’re gearing up to bring big flavor and good vibes soon. Stay tuned as they settle in!
???? Business Moves & Menu Updates
Bon Bons Bakery – Relocated to 1707 North Kings Highway, Suite 101. Along with the move comes a fresh menu and a bold showing in this year’s Burger Battle.
Ground About Coffee – Now brewing at Mercy Hospital Southeast, bringing a cozy caffeine fix to the hospital crowd.
Top of the Marq – Spring has sprung on their brand-new seasonal menu! Expect elevated bites, fresh flavors, and a view that’s always in season.
???????? Chef Spotlights & Behind-the-Scenes
Dalhousie Golf Club – Welcomed a new executive chef trained at the Culinary Institute of America (Greystone, Napa Valley) with experience in Michelin-starred kitchens. The updated menu emphasizes scratch-made excellence and fresh, high-quality ingredients.
SOIRÉE by Annie Lorries – Dropped a new cocktail menu where each specialty sip is inspired by a favorite song. A harmonious blend of flavor and flair.
OXIO Tea & Dessert Studio – Located at 610 White Law Avenue, they’re kicking off a sweet new chapter with their signature milk teas and innovative desserts.
???? What’s Still Bubbling Under the Surface?
According to the Cape Chamber of Commerce, even more tasty new ventures are in the works! Businesses that have filed for licensing include:
Las Brisas – Expanding to Cape in the former Zaxby’s building
Pink Vega$ – Lounge and restaurant coming to S. Sprigg
Operation Falafel – A new Mediterranean concept on the way
The Juicery Cape – Opening inside The Studio on Cape LaCroix Road
OXIO Dessert Studio – Expanding presence across the area
Crumbl Cookies – As mentioned, opening soon on Campster Dr.
???? There’s never been a better time to explore new spots and support local!
???? 2. Community Updates
???? Burger Battle Winner: Ebb & Flow Fermentations – Big congrats to this creative crew for winning hearts (and tastebuds) at this year’s competition!
???? Food Truck Rally Season Has Begun! Food trucks are back and bringing the flavor across the region with multiple rallies each month (see full schedule below).
???? 3. Feature Story
Rolling Into Flavor: Food Truck Rally Season Returns!
Nothing says spring like good eats on four wheels. Food truck rallies are revving up across the Heartland—and they’re bringing everything from street tacos to sweet treats. Here’s where to catch them:
Event
Date(s)
Time
Location
Arena Park Food Truck Rally
March 28 (Kickoff), April 18 (Next Event)
—
Arena Park, Cape Girardeau
Picnic in the Park – Perryville
First Tuesdays, April–October
11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Perryville
Jackson Food Truck Rally
First & Last Wednesdays, April–September
3:30–7:30 p.m.
252 E Jackson Blvd, Iron Mountain Railway
Grab a lawn chair, bring your appetite, and enjoy bites under the sky!
???? 4. Tips & Recommendations
???? Farmers Market Forecast – Spring 2025
Local produce, handmade goods, and community vibes are just around the corner.
Here’s your go-to guide:
Market
Opening Day
Schedule
Location
Cape Riverfront Market
May 3
Saturdays
Opening Day at Century Casino, then resumes downtown @ 35 S Spanish St, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703
Cape Farmers Market
April 2
Thursdays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. through Thanksgiving
West Park Mall Parking Lot Mount Auburn Rd Entrance, Cape Girardeau, MO, United States, Missouri
Jackson Farmers Market
May 6
Tuesdays, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. through Sept. 30
252 E Jackson Blvd, Jackson, MO 63755
???? Pro Tip: Bring cash, reusable bags, and curiosity—you never know what you’ll discover!
???? 5. Upcoming Events
Event
Date
Time
Location
Arena Park Food Truck Rally
April 18
—
Cape Girardeau @ Arena Park
Picnic in the Park – Perryville
April 2 (First Tuesday)
11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Perryville Park
Jackson Food Truck Rally
April 2 & 30
3:30–7:30 p.m.
252 E Jackson Blvd
Cape Riverfront Market
May 3
—
Century Casino / Downtown Cape
Jackson Farmers Market
May 6
11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Jackson, MO
???? 6. Feedback & Engagement
???? Got food news, local events, or tasty photos to share? We’re always looking for your stories, shout-outs, and flavor finds to feature in the next edition!
???? Submit updates by April 25 for the May Bulletin! ???? Bonus: Tag us on Instagram with your favorite spring eats!
Meet Bite Buddy!
Bite Buddy is your personal foodie companion from Heartland Eats and Treats, here to enhance your dining experiences and celebrate your unique tastes. Shaped like a friendly, bite-sized snack, Bite Buddy is always ready to explore the world of food with you, offering guidance and suggestions that resonate with your palate.
Bite Buddy is cheerful and supportive, with a casual and engaging tone. It loves discovering new flavors and sharing culinary insights without being pushy. Bite Buddy celebrates individual tastes and helps you find meals that delight your senses.
Likes:
* Personalized Recommendations: Bite Buddy enjoys helping users make informed food choices based on their preferences.
* Exploring Cuisines: From local favorites to exotic dishes, Bite Buddy loves learning and sharing about diverse culinary experiences.
* Community Engagement: Bite Buddy thrives on connecting with food enthusiasts, sharing recommendations, and facilitating discussions.
Dislikes:
* Food Pressure: Bite Buddy avoids pushing users into choices that don't suit their tastes.
* Judgmental Attitudes: Bite Buddy believes in respecting all food preferences without bias.
* Boring Meals: Bite Buddy is all about making each meal exciting and memorable.
Join Bite Buddy on a flavorful journey and discover the joy of personalized dining experiences with Heartland Eats and Treats!
Ghost kitchens, also known as virtual kitchens, cloud kitchens, or dark kitchens, are professional food preparation and cooking facilities set up for the purpose of fulfilling delivery-only orders. These kitchens operate without...
