Discover the best restaurants for unforgettable dining experiences

Explore Arkansas’ diverse culinary landscape and discover some hidden gems worth a visit. From quaint farm experiences to authentic international flavors, this guide highlights the top 20 places to eat outside of Little Rock. These establishments not only offer exceptional cuisine, but also capture the unique essence of Arkansas.

Exceptional Farm to Table Experiences in Arkansas

Arkansas is home to numerous farm-to-table eateries that guarantee fresh, locally sourced ingredients, making for a delightful dining experience. The mix of rustic charm and gourmet cooking creates something remarkable in these restaurants.

Rabbit Back Farms in Bee Branch is not your average restaurant, but offers special dinners, breakfasts and lunches in a beautiful event center overlooking the farm. The highlight is the proteins, which are grown on their land, making for an authentic farm-to-table experience.

Another must-see is The basket in Bentonville. Located in the 21c Museum Hotel, this upscale eatery features a variety of meals prepared by James Beard Semi-finalist Chef Matthew McClure. The wood-fired Berkshire Hog Chop stands out for its rich flavor and impeccable preparation.

Additionally, Wonder House in Conway brings European comfort food to the table using locally sourced ingredients. Staples like the WunderBurger and Farmer’s Daughter, praised by regulars, offer a hearty and filling meal that supports local agriculture.

The best pizza and pasta in Arkansas

Pizza and pasta lovers can head to these Arkansas restaurants for the tastiest dishes. Traditional ingredients are combined with innovative recipes to create unforgettable dishes.

Deluca’s Pizza in Hot Springs is known for making some of the best pizza in the state. The thin, crispy crust with buffalo mozzarella and other gourmet toppings makes it a favorite among locals and visitors. Don’t forget to try their famous cheeseburger.

Fayetteville is home to Headwhere homemade pasta like pappardelle with braised beef and pork shoulder ragu attracts pasta lovers. Steak lovers will appreciate the 35-day aged filet, a dish that embodies culinary excellence.

In Benton, My little pizzeria brings authentic New York-style pizza to Arkansas. While seating is limited, the Lasagna Pizza and Margarita Cold, topped with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes, make the dining experience worth it.

Unforgettable brunch and breakfast spots

The state’s brunch and breakfast scene is vibrant, offering dishes ranging from hearty traditional breakfasts to eclectic, modern fare.

Cafe Rue Orleans in Fayetteville is known for its brunch, with dishes like Creole Shrimp and Grits, Eggs Pontchartrain, and Catfish Tchoupitoulas drawing crowds. The portions are generous and the flavors are robust, making for a memorable brunch experience.

For those in Eureka Springs, Mud Street Café is a weekend breakfast staple. Their omelets and Veggie Hash Browns are particularly popular, making it a great way to start the day.

Bee Oliver’s Bistro In Mountain View, the Massey Burger impresses, but the homemade desserts really shine. This charming spot offers a delicious end to any weekend getaway.

Authentic flavours and unique dining experiences

Arkansas’s culinary scene wouldn’t be complete without the eclectic international flavors and unique eateries found throughout the state.

Green Papaya in Fort Smith offers Vietnamese classics like pho and Beef Chow Fun, showing that Arkansas has a diverse culinary palette. It’s a no-frills restaurant that emphasizes authentic, rich flavors.

At Rogers, Saiwok Vietnamese street food has an eclectic menu. Items like Smoked Pork Belly Fries and the Saiwok Lava Rock, a do-it-yourself cooking experience with shrimp or beef, make for memorable meals.

For a southern experience, Jones’ Bar-B-Q eatery in Marianna delivers with its famous pork and coleslaw sandwiches. This iconic spot is a must-visit for fans of classic barbecue flavors.

Finally, McClard’s Bar-B-Q in Hot Springs offers dishes like the Half Spread, a hearty tamale base with Fritos, ground beef, cheese and onions. This iconic location captivates with its rich, smoky flavors.

Special mentions: hidden culinary treasures

There are several other well-known restaurants that dot the Arkansas culinary scene, offering unique and delicious options for every foodie.

Coursey’s Smoked Meats in St. Joe is known for its smoked bacon. But the smoked turkey and cheddar sandwiches are equally impressive and worth trying.

The Whippet in Prattsville offers perfectly cooked catfish with a delicious coconut cream pie. The “Set Up” includes beans, coleslaw, hush puppies and tomato relish, making your meal even better.

Taylor’s Steakhouse in Dumas is a top choice for steak lovers. The 20-day dry-aged bone-in ribeye is a rare delight, with expert preparation and rich flavors.

Finally, Pea Farm Bistro in Cabot offers a simple but precise menu of salads and sandwiches. Their Club and Cuban sandwiches, along with the potato salad, offer a heart-warming dining experience.

In Arkansas, the diversity and quality of dining experiences make every meal a memorable one. Whether you prefer rustic farm-to-table fare, international flavors, or hearty Southern classics, the state’s culinary landscape offers something special for every foodie.

Chief editor bee The Oracle CE

I am from Malvern, Arkansas and I am an Innovative Media major. My minor is Sociology. I went from being a stagehand to a college student. I love to travel, make music, and skateboard.

My goal is to become a foreign correspondent and I am currently learning Russian.

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