Arkansas Restaurant and Dining Guide
Arkansas, the "Natural State", home to a deliciously unique fusion of Southern and Ozark regional specialties, Arkansas is a treasure trove of comfort food, signature barbecues, and quirky local eateries. Join us as we taste our way through six vibrant Arkansas cities: Fayetteville, Little Rock, Fort Smith, Hot Springs, Bentonville, and Jonesboro. From delightfully addictive cheese dips to the heavenly taste of fried catfish, brace yourself for a gastronomic adventure you won't soon forget. Plus, we've interspersed our food journey with fascinating local attractions, so there's plenty to explore between bites. Let's dive into this culinary odyssey!
Savory Southern Comfort in Fayetteville
Nestled in the Ozarks, Fayetteville combines Southern charm with a vibrant college-town energy, making it a treasure trove of diverse eateries. First up, let's dive into Cafe Rue Orleans, a NOLA-inspired joint serving up Cajun classics like the Catfish Tchoupitoulas—a seafood-stuffed catfish filet draped in a rich sauce that's just begging to be sopped up with a side of hush puppies.
But if you're craving something more down-home, make your way to Rolling Pin Café, where you'll find hand-breaded chicken tenders so tender they could make a grown man cry. Served atop creamy mashed potatoes and smothered in white gravy, it's comfort food on a whole new level. Looking for a quick bite? Swing by Marlo's Little House of Tacos for the cheese and guacamole dip, and you'll be saying "¡Olé!" in no time. Mockingbird Kitchen also deserves a mention for its inventive dishes. From their Buffalo Cauliflower that makes you forget you're eating vegetables, to the Smoked Duck Breast that's all sorts of divine, it's a must-visit.
After your foodie tour, walk off the calories at the picturesque Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, explore Clinton House Museum, or the Arkansas Air & Military Museum. Trust me, your belly and your Instagram followers will thank you!
The Tasty Tapestry of Little Rock
Welcome to the heart of Arkansas! Little Rock, the state's capital, is a vibrant city with a food scene as diverse as its history. For some delightful Southern fried goodness, stop by Flying Fish. Their chicken salad, grilled or fried, and grilled catfish plate are crowd favorites and for a good reason. At Dizzy's Gypsy Bistro, don't miss the Award-Winning La Petit Roche Cheese Dip. And yes, they take their cheese dip seriously here—Little Rock even hosts the World Cheese Dip Competition!
Feeling Euro-chic? Head over to The Pantry Restaurant. From the hearty Svickova to the savory Jäger Schnitzel, you'll feel like you've been teleported straight to Central Europe. And if you're on a health kick, ZAZA: Little Rock's got your back with their Spinach Bacon Avocado salad and Classic Cobb salad, both bursting with fresh ingredients and packed with flavor.
After your feast, soak in the beauty of Pinnacle Mountain State Park, learn something new at the Old State House Museum, or ignite your curiosity at the Museum of Discovery.
The Flavor Frontier of Fort Smith
Welcome to the frontier of flavor, also known as Fort Smith. The city's culinary delights are as rich as its Western heritage. Anthony's Italian Restaurant serves pizza that could give Napoli a run for its money—try the Anthony's Special, and thank me later. For a taste of Southeast Asia, Green Papaya serves Com Chien Thit Nuong, an appetizing fried rice dish, and Bun Thit Nuong, an impressive medley of charcoal broiled pork and fresh veggies.
Craving BBQ? Look no further than Art's BBQ & Burgers. Whether you're indulging in the Fried Pickles, savoring the Chef’s Cut Sirloin, or chowing down the Loaded BBQ Potato, you'll feel right at home. Now, to shake things up, let's hop over to Rolando's Restaurante. From the flavorful Cuzco’s Fajitas to the hearty El Plato Cubano, your taste buds are in for a Latin treat.
Fort Smith's food scene is as diverse as its attractions. After lunch, take a ride back in time at the Fort Smith Trolley Museum, or splash around at the Parrot Island Waterpark. Either way, you're bound to work up an appetite for more.
Sizzling Delights in Hot Springs
Aptly named, Hot Springs is a city that oozes charm, with its cozy restaurants and therapeutic hot springs. Starting with Taco Pronto, the cheese dip and meat burrito are comfort food classics that warm you from the inside out. For a unique German dining experience, visit Steinhaus Keller. Their Smorgasbord, an assortment of delectable bites, and Goulash Soup are sure to satisfy your cravings for hearty, home-style cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, head to Cafe 1217. The Mexican Tortilla Wrap with roasted chicken and the Taco Salad Bowl are flavorful and satisfying without being overly heavy.
Now, don't let the name fool you - Hot Springs is not just about the springs. The Gangster Museum of America tells a fascinating story of crime, while the Ouachita National Forest offers plenty of trails for hiking and exploration.
Gourmet Grandeur in Bentonville
Step into Bentonville, a food lover's paradise, where high-quality ingredients meet culinary innovation. At Blu Fish House, the Shaggy Dog Roll and Wild Coconut Shrimp are nothing short of delicious. Don't leave without trying the Aoi Japanese Nachos, a fusion dish that perfectly encapsulates the creative spirit of this restaurant. Down at Tusk & Trotter American Brasserie, the Tusk Burger and Truffle Shuffle will remind you why comfort food is always a good idea. Over at Table On 6th St, the House Black Bean Burger, Jambalaya, and Caribbean “Billy Bones Pasta” offer a variety of flavors that will surely impress.
Once you've had your fill, explore the charming Peel Museum & Botanical Garden, learn about the retail giant's humble beginnings at the Walmart Museum, or admire American masterpieces at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.
Juicy Journeys in Jonesboro
Jonesboro is a delightful city that pairs its rich history with an equally enriching food scene. Dive into local flavor at Ron’s Catfish Buffet. The Fried Catfish and Frog legs are scrumptious, offering a perfect mix of crispness and tender meat. A trip to Partovi's Gyros & Falafel gives a Mediterranean twist to your Southern sojourn. The Partovi's Special, with its lamb, chicken, and a side of delicious baklava, is an absolute treat. For Gyro Salad, you've come to the right place. Make your last pitstop at Blue Ember Smokehouse where the Brisket Sandwich, Special Ops Sandwich, and Pulled Pork Sandwich are the stuff of barbecue dreams.
After you've indulged your taste buds, stretch your legs at the Sara Howell Studio and Gallery. Unleash your playful side at Hijinx Family Entertainment Center or embrace your competitive spirit at Civil Axe Throwing . Jonesboro, you've been a delightful finale to our Arkansas culinary journey!
Whether you're chasing the ghosts of gangsters in Hot Springs or admiring the artistic masterpieces in Bentonville, dining in Arkansas offers a backdrop of fascinating locales each with its unique flavor profiles. From the robust cheese dips of Fayetteville and Little Rock to the mouth-watering barbecues of Jonesboro, there's a plate for every palate in the Natural State.
So, there you have it, fellow food explorers! Pack your appetite, bring your adventurous spirit, and embark on this flavorful journey across Arkansas. The rich blend of history, culture, and cuisine in each city is as comforting and warm as a bowl of good ol' southern grits. Happy eating and exploring!
Must-Try Restaurants in Arkansas
Blue Ember Smokehouse
2820 Creek Dr, Jonesboro, AR 72401The food has lost some quality, the brisket had more fat than meat and the pork was extremely dry.
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Good107 Reviews4.1
Marlo's Little House of Tacos
Garland Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72703Local favorite! Delicious, been going here for years, love the food! Best cheese dip!
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Good49 Reviews3.5
TABLE ON 6TH ST
409 SE 6th St, Bentonville, AR 72712We popped in on Valentines Day and were able to have a nice dinner at the bar without having reservations. The staff was friendly and helpful and the fai...
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Superb108 Reviews4.3
Partovi's Gyros & Falafel
2916 S Caraway Rd, Jonesboro, AR 72403My FAVORITE thing is the lamb gyro extra feta . And fries it's so yummy! And it a lean meat so it no just good for you it tasty for your...well tast...
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Superb154 Reviews4.7
Dizzy's Gypsy Bistro
200 River Market Ave #150, Little Rock, AR 72201Food was really yummy. Definitely enjoyed the wrap they have. Everything was very fresh, the staff was super attentive, and I loved the quirky atmosphere...
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Superb80 Reviews4.6
Steinhaus Keller
801 Central Ave #15, Hot Springs, AR 71901We brought some friends who had never had authentic German food! The entire experience was amazing! Our server was so composed, kind and responsive! She ...
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Good349 Reviews4.2
Ron's Catfish
3213 Dan Ave, Jonesboro, AR 72401We love Ron's. We usually go once or twice a month. They are always nice and the food is always good.
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Good93 Reviews4
Blu Fish House
607 SE 5th St, Bentonville, AR 72712No, we did not have a reservation. And, yes, the hostess was a bit snotty. But we got a table (there was plenty of room) and dinner was ok. We hadn'...
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Good101 Reviews4.1
Rolando's Restaurante
917 N A St, Fort Smith, AR 72901Such a cool patio! We had a wonderful dining experience here. The food was delicious, I felt great when I left, not sluggish. I highly recommend this pla...
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Superb88 Reviews4.4
Tusk & Trotter American Brasserie
110 SE A St, Bentonville, AR 72712We've eaten here on occasion since they opened, but last night was like a bad dream. I paid over $50 for a small tenderloin, and it was a good quali...
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Good133 Reviews4.1
Anthony's Italian Restaurant
3115 Cavanaugh Rd, Fort Smith, AR 72908The food was absolutely amazing, our server was Lily. She made the entire experience of eating the food and telling us about the town really exciting as ...
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Superb170 Reviews4.7
Green Papaya on Hwy 271 S
6301 US-271, Fort Smith, AR 72908First time here wait was long food aweful and so was the customer service. Order fried rice got freezer burned white rice with chicken .. large crab rago...
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Good54 Reviews3.8
Art's BBQ & Burgers
8203 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72903We had came on a Friday about 6p. They seemed to be pretty busy but everyone was still so nice. There was a gentleman that I did not catch the name of. B...
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Superb65 Reviews4.3
Rolling Pin Café
2565 E Huntsville Rd, Fayetteville, AR 72701Down home, home cooked breakfast. You really can't beat this. We came in town for a visit to the University of Arkansas, but it was clear that this ...
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Superb233 Reviews4.7
Mockingbird Kitchen
1466 N College Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72703Had lunch with my wife we both got the focaccia club sandwich with sweet potato chips! This club sanwich has so much flavor and fresh ingredients! We can...
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Superb90 Reviews4.6
Cafe Rue Orleans - Cajun & Seafood
1150 N College Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72703Hands down some of the best food and service we have ever had. So glad we found this place! Can’t wait to eat our leftovers.
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Good96 Reviews4.2
Flying Fish
511 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201I was craving some catfish and this is hands down my favorite so far. I only started eating, scratch that, *ENJOYING* seafood a few years ago (which I k...
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Superb153 Reviews4.3
ZAZA : Little Rock
5600 Kavanaugh Blvd, Little Rock, AR 72207Great salads, pizza and ambiance! A unique experience that I highly recommend! To both locals and visitors alike.
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Superb120 Reviews4.4
The Pantry Restaurant
11401 N Rodney Parham Rd, Little Rock, AR 72212Hands down my favorite restaurant in Little Rock. The food is unique, excellent and the bartender, David, is an absolute joy! A must visit if you are a l...
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Superb482 Reviews4.9
Cafe 1217
1217 Malvern Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901My Mom, Sister and I, enjoyed this little café. Food was pretty delicious and the atmosphere was quaint. They were busy, so service was straight to the p...
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Superb120 Reviews4.7
Taco Pronto
4350 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71913This is my go to Tex-Mez spot when I’m craving something a bit more refined than Taco Bell. I mostly stop by for one dish in particular, the Combination ...
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Good200 Reviews4.2
Recently Opened Restaurants
Crème Ice Cream Co.
2730 N College Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72703Service was great and the atmosphere was relaxing. A very family friendly place. Ice cream and the ices are so yummy. A lot of choices to pick from such ...
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Superb140 Reviews4.8
The Big Lieutenant
600 SW 41st St Suite 8, Bentonville, AR 72712A new favorite go to. My favorite part about this place is the staff. They are incredibly personable and friendly. The food is exceptional. They take cl...
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Superb59 Reviews4.5
Topgolf
5 Topgolf Way, Little Rock, AR 72210We had a group of 12 in two bays our waitress Liv did an amazing job. She kept up with our orders and made sure we got what we needed. She helped set up ...
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Good37 Reviews3.8
La Garnacha Food Truck
1512 W Center St, Beebe, AR 72012Big Tamale: Low price Lovely people & spicy salsa made my meal even more glorious!Loved sitting in the sun while grubbing down ?
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Superb2 Reviews5
The Meat Station
717 Main St, Van Buren, AR 72956The brisket was on point. The staff was very friendly. I just wish there was more sides available on the menu.
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Superb22 Reviews4.6
Whataburger
1716 Fayetteville Rd, Van Buren, AR 72956We waited 6 minutes for someone to take our order have people just look at us and walk away the lady came out of the bathroom walked pass us to the back ...
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Good44 Reviews3.4
Fired Up Pizza Company
533 US-425, Monticello, AR 71655Ok, so this place is fairly new, and they're still working on their craft.The pizza was pretty good.I would have preferred it to be a tad crunchier,...
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Superb18 Reviews4.6
El Parian Mexican Restaurant
109 S Main St, Dumas, AR 71639My experience was phenomenal!! The ambiance was exceptional!! Quiet clean just beautiful!! And the food was hot and fresh the portions well worth the pri...
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Superb3 Reviews5
Backstreet Barbecue
502 Northway Aly, Charleston, AR 72933Once upon a time, there were three little pigs. Until they ended up on this amazing sandwich, that is.
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Superb6 Reviews4.3
Jackie Sue's Coal Hill Diner
306 US-64, Coal Hill, AR 72832This establishment has some of the best food!!! All beef burgers that are so mouth watering!!! Home cut fries!!!! Homemade chili!!! And hand battered chi...
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Superb4 Reviews4.8
Starlight Slices
918 E 4th St, Russellville, AR 72801Hands down the best crust for a NY style dough. Flavor delicious. Any of the toppings would be the best. I had the Hawaiian Bbq Chicken. He pickles the o...
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Superb16 Reviews5
Candley's Cookin'
1205 W Hillsboro St, El Dorado, AR 71730- Take-Out
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Poor0 Reviews0
Tasty African Restaurant
301 N Shackleford Rd F2, Little Rock, AR 72211Upon walking in I get a very uninviting look on the face of a lady who didn't even bother to greet us let alone talk to us, hand us a menu or even c...
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Average52 Reviews3.2
Willow Uptown Bistro & Boutique
1306 US-62 65 N, Harrison, AR 72601Great people, great food, great Christian music, and great Christian merchandise. Thanks for shining His light in this dark world!
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Superb29 Reviews4.7
The Dairy Bar
405 Main St, Des Arc, AR 72040Great diner with a good menu selection. The staff is very friendly and always welcoming. The catfish is a must try.
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Superb1 Reviews5
Recent Reviews
Dream's Pizza
Inside Jacksonville Inn Hotel, 200 T P White Dr, Jacksonville, AR 72076Very good pizza. We'd ordered the Supreme. The crust has sesame seeds lightly sprinkled on it and this give it a very nice flavor. The crust was cri...
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Superb2 Reviews5
Big Bad Breakfast - Little Rock
101 S Bowman Rd, Little Rock, AR 72211Everything is beautiful here. And the food is over the top, excellent. They also have something for everyone's tastes.Everything is beautiful here. ...
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Good137 Reviews4
Byrd's Mulberry Riverfront Restaurant
7037 Cass Oark Rd, Ozark, AR 72949Today was not a good day to eat at Byrd's. Driving a long distance to enjoy their food was such a disappointing adventure. After informing the wai...
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Superb104 Reviews4.6
Los Amigos
9746 US-62, Viola, AR 72583Just ordered some chicken nachos for delivery less than an hour before closing and not only was it delicious but the delivery was prompt and I got twice ...
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Superb8 Reviews5
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
2624 S Shackleford Rd, Little Rock, AR 72205Went to BJ’s on 3/1/24. In Little Rock ARThe waiter arrived with an attitude. I ordered a filet mignon. I have no idea what they served me. I ...
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Average101 Reviews2.8
El Tumi De Oro Peruvian Restaurant & More
710 Fayetteville Rd, Van Buren, AR 72956Very friendly but our food was lacking it flavor. Prices were considerably higher even though it's a very small casual establishment. The portions ...
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Superb61 Reviews4.9
Zaxby's Chicken Fingers & Buffalo Wings
20680 I-30 Frontage Rd, Benton, AR 72019there’s this girl who works there she gave attitude and wasn’t nice or just didn’t have a good demeanor. i’ve not...
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Average173 Reviews3.2
Chick-fil-A
1301 L A Prexy Davis Dr, Pine Bluff, AR 71601Thankful for Gods chicken in Pine bluff!! Such polite staff, quick to respond if there is a mess up!!
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Good19 Reviews3.4
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
1805 E Beebe Capps Expy, Searcy, AR 72143Went through the drive through today at 11 am The window person was rude . I like the food - find this location to be clean and usually friendly...
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Average191 Reviews3
Randy's City Cafe
1216 E Page Ave, Malvern, AR 72104Not bad, but not excellent. Not using pre patty frozen hamburgers would be a good start.
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Superb25 Reviews4.6
Sonic Drive-In
4711 W Kingshighway, Paragould, AR 72450Just left sonic on 412 I got a route44 sweet tea and did not get ice the main reason I go to sonic . This is not cool after paying full price for a drink...
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Good132 Reviews3.8
Hooters
4110 Landers Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72117This was a great location. The food was delicious and the servers were beautiful and super friendly. A must stop if you are hungry and want to hang with ...
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Average73 Reviews2.9
Good Luck
104 E Arkansas St, Star City, AR 71667Very good food. Clean atmosphere. The service is great - they will go out of their way to make sure there guests are happy and well fed. Recommended.
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Good50 Reviews3.9
New China
2625 E Race Ave, Searcy, AR 72143The coconut chicken was good. The pork was very good also. It's not a 5 star restaurant. But good enough for a quick fix of your Chinese buffet.
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Good121 Reviews3.9
Maverick’s
3 S Main St, Greenwood, AR 72936Where do I begin? This place is my family's new favorite Mexican restaurant. The food is good but the service is what makes this place exceptional. ...
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Good22 Reviews4.2
Recently Updated Menus
3D's Cooking and Grilling
432 2nd St, Holly Grove, AR 72069Southern country style plus late night cooking the experience was definitely good. (Especially them wings)?❤️
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Superb4 Reviews5
Sabor El Rey
682 US-62, Salem, AR 72576Love this place. Owner is very nice and food is very good, the staff is also nice and attentive to my needs.
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Superb13 Reviews4.3
Britt's Bake Shop and Cafe
740 US-65, Marshall, AR 72650We went to try this restaurant today. We ordered the fried mushrooms which we love but aren't easy to find in our area. Ranch was homemade and taste...
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Superb22 Reviews4.4
Kiko Rice & Noodle
1065 Garland Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701Food was amazing. We had the valentines roll and crawfish fried rice. The fried rice blew our minds and the portion size was huge.
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Superb62 Reviews4.5
NeNe’s Dishes
32 S Pine St Suite 5, Cabot, AR 72023Nene’s really helped me out with a last minute meal for a family wake. Thank you, we appreciate it so much!
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Superb28 Reviews4.5
The Rail Yard LR
1212 E 6th St Suite 1, Little Rock, AR 72202Beautiful lunch stop while riding the Arkansas river trail and the SE Trail. Relaxed atmosphere, great food, and friendly
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Superb94 Reviews4.4
Yankabilly Smokehouse Barbecue
108 S Main St, Springdale, AR 72764amazing service! great food. recommended too everyone I know. their brisket chili is next level good....but so is everything else on the menu! 11 out of ...
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Superb69 Reviews4.6
Triuno Alebrijes Taqueria
3315 W Wedington Dr, Fayetteville, AR 72704Hidden Gem on Weddington. Definitely some of the best Mexican food in NWA. Daily specials.
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Superb55 Reviews4.3
Houlihan's Restaurant
225 Red Wolf Blvd, Jonesboro, AR 72405The worst service appetizers brought out with meal a hour and a half wait for food has to send my meal back 3 times because the server brought the appeti...
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Good109 Reviews3.8
Phil's Family Restaurant
2900 Central Ave, Hot Springs National Park, AR 71913The food, the atmosphere, the service, it’s all great. We will definitely be making this one of our top food spots in hot springs. It’s like your steppin...
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Superb109 Reviews4.5
Nomads Southtown
1431 S School Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701less of a "restaurant" and more of a bar where you go to get side-eyed by a lot of drunk Republican sophomores. music is way too loud and food ...
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Good73 Reviews3.7
Hillybilly Slim's BBQ
16130 AR-16, Witts Springs, AR 72686I'm very sorry to say. The pulled pork may be good , I don't know.I ordered prime rib and came to me looking like burned pot roast.The next tim...
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Superb72 Reviews4.7
China Fun
536 U. S. Hwy 71, Alma, AR 72921First time here, and it was not disappointing. We did the lunch buffet, it's small, but great variety and everything tasted so good. The egg rolls a...
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Superb55 Reviews4.7
Maggies Original Cookie Co
2850 Prince St #17, Conway, AR 72034My son loves the “smiley cookies,” and they were on his National Signing Day table this morning! Maggie’s took a special order request for A-State color...
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Superb23 Reviews4.7
Morina's Italian Restaurant
2006 S Pine St suite j, Cabot, AR 72023We had a table of 8 for dinner. Everyone enjoyed their food and had plenty for leftovers. The garlic rolls are SO GOOD. So pace yourself. Our server, Wya...
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Good83 Reviews4.2