Arkansas is a beautiful, small state in the southern region of the USA. It is widely known for its great Southern hospitality, plenty of camping locations, tons of outdoor activities, and mouthwatering delicacies.
This US state boasts an eclectic variety of restaurants where visitors can savor finger-licking cuisines to satisfy their taste buds. Are you a foodie who is looking for the best restaurants in Arkansas? Here, we have pulled together some of our favorite options where you can enjoy an unforgettable meal.
What are restaurants in Arkansas known for?
The state of Arkansas is primarily known for its delicious barbecue, which is a local dining staple. However, the restaurants offer a variety of other cuisines that are worth giving a try, including fried catfish and chicken, rice, wild duck, purple hull peas, fried green tomatoes, and grits.
Some of the famous eateries that you should add to your itinerary are The Pantry, Park General Store, Jones Bar-B-Q Diner, The Hive, Feltner’s Whatta-Burger, McClard’s, and Weinkeller Restaurant.
Are Restaurants open in Arkansas for dine-in?
Yes. Restaurants in Arkansas are now open for dine-in and foodies are welcome to satiate their cravings. The seating capacity may now increase up to 66%, including indoor and outdoor areas.
However, to keep up with the security, restaurants are still following several Covid restrictions under new guidelines, including daily health screening, use of masks, sanitizers, etc.
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11 Unique Restaurants in Arkansas
So, are you ready to savor the delicious Arkansas cuisines? Here is a quick rundown of some of the famous restaurants in Arkansas that you should not afford to miss when visiting this beautiful southern state.
These eat-outs serve fresh ingredients and friendly services. No matter whatever you are craving, these Arkansas restaurants have it all. With so much good food, they are bound to be something to please every palette. So, add them to your itinerary and enjoy your favorite cuisine when visiting Arkansas.
1. Dondie’s White River Princess
Located on the shore of the White River, Dondie’s White River Princess is primarily a seafood restaurant. It offers incredible cuisines along with outstanding views of the White River. Some of the famous items you should try when visiting Dondie’s restaurant include crawfish, chicken, catfish, ribs, and lots of seafood.
It is a beautiful riverboat that offers travelers an unforgettable experience. You can dine on board without even leaving the ground. Want to enjoy this dine-in opportunity? First, get to know about the relocation to Arkansas to avoid any hassle later on.
Does Dondie’s Water River Princess Restaurant offer takeout?
Yes. Dondie’s Restaurant offers takeout services so that foodies can enjoy delicious food from the comfort of their homes.
How is Dondie’s White River Princess Restaurant Rated?
Dondie’s White River Princess has earned good ratings from the customers. The food is rated 4.5, service got 5 stars, value has earned 4 stars, and Atmosphere got 4.5 out of 5. Overall, it is a good restaurant as far as ratings are concerned.
2. Cafe Africa, Little Rock Zoo
Counted amongst the most unique restaurants in Arkansas, Cafe Africa is located in the heart of the Little Rock Zoo, across from the Civitan Pavilion. The cafe has an excellent selection of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items, as well as a variety of drinks to choose from. Moreover, it is famous for offering multi-level dining and a stone fireplace.
Its menu features various mouthwatering dishes, including hamburgers, hot dogs, cheeseburgers, fries, and many more.
Is Cafe Africa Open at Little Rock Zoo?
Yes, This cafe opens regularly from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Are masks required at the Little Rock Zoo?
No, visitors are no longer required to put on the mask to enter the zoo. However, staff members still have to follow the Covid guidelines and wear masks to avoid any transmission.
Does Little Rock Zoo serve alcohol?
Yes. Being the Wild Wines restaurant partner, Little Rock Zoo offers delicious food and wines to facilitate visitors.
Can you take your dog to the Little Rock Zoo?
No. Little Rock Zoo doesn’t allow pets; hence, it is advised to leave your furry friend in the vehicle when visiting the zoo.
3. Jones Bar-B-Q
It is the first restaurant in Arkansas to receive a James Beard Award. This barbecue joint is located in Marianna, Arkansas, and has been serving foodies since 1910. It is the country’s oldest black-owned restaurant.
The restaurant was recognized as an American Classic in 2012 by James Beard Foundation. Jones Bar-B-Q is particularly famous for finger-licking pork shoulders, the only meat they sell.
Is Jones BBQ sauce gluten-free?
Yes, Jones BBQ sauce is gluten-free; however, they cannot guarantee that there’s no cross-contamination; hence it isn’t certified.
When did Mr. Jones go to a restaurant for one day?
When he went to a restaurant one day, Mr. Jones left his coat near the door with empty pockets. But when he came back to pick it up after a meal, he got surprised to find lots of jewelry in it.
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4. McClard’s Bar-B-Q in Hot Springs
McClard’s Bar-B-Q is a hot, Texas-style barbecue restaurant located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The restaurant has been open since 1928 and remained a family business ever since. It is known for its brisket, sausage, ribs, and chicken.
The menu also includes items such as onion rings, fried potatoes, and macaroni and cheese. Prices are reasonable and the service is friendly. In addition to the delicious food, McClard’s offers an extensive list of cocktails and beers to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for a casual meal with friends or a night out with family, McClard’s is the perfect spot.
Does McClard’s Bar-Be-Q offer takeout?
Yes, McClard’s Bar-B-Q accepts take-outs. Order your food online and track it live. No delivery fee is charged on your first order.
What forms of payment are accepted at MacClard’s Bar-B-Q?
This restaurant primarily accepts credit cards.
5. AQ Chicken House In Springdale
Listed among the best restaurants in Arkansas, AQ Chicken House is a go-to place for savoring fried chicken since 1947. It is conveniently located at Thompson St, Springdale. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere with an old-fashioned setting.
The chicken at AQ Chicken House is cooked to perfection and is sure to satisfy any chicken lover out there. They have a variety of dishes available, including chicken fingers, chicken nuggets, and even buffalo chicken dip.
The restaurant also offers a wide selection of sides, such as mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, green beans, and coleslaw.
How to A Q Chicken House Rated?
This restaurant has ratings of 4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor and it is ranked #3 of 174 eateries in Springdale.
Does A Q Chicken House offer takeout?
Yes, AQ Chicken House accepts takeout orders. Order your meal and wait for a while to savor delicious cuisines.
6. Purple Cow Hot Springs
It is a 1950s theme restaurant where you can treat yourself to delicious burgers, tasty grilled sandwiches, and creamy salads. The restaurant is known for its innovative cuisine and stunning views of the Hot Springs area.
Purple Cow in Hot Springs, Arkansas has been awarded two prestigious awards: the James Beard Award for Best Restaurant and the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
How did the Purple Cow get its name?
The name is taken from the short poem Purple Cow written by American writer Gelett Burgess and published in 1895.
Who owns the Purple Cow?
Ed Moore and Chef Paul Bash are the owners of Purple Cow Restaurant. He started this eat-out in 1989 with Chef Paul Bash on Cantrell Road, Little Rock.
7. The Mammoth Orange Cafe
Yet another best option on the list of restaurants in Arkansas is The Mammoth Orange Cafe. This eatery has been in business since 1965 and is a great place to savor some delicious cuisines.
The cafe is known for its mammoth-sized pizzas and delicious hamburgers. If you’re looking for something more substantial, the cafe also has a variety of sandwiches and salads to cater to your needs.
The Mammoth Orange cafe has a rustic feel, making it the best way to experience the flavor and culture of Arkansas.
Is Mammoth Orange Cafe currently offering delivery or takeout?
Yes. The cafe offers takeout and delivery services so you can satiate your taste buds in the comfort of your home.
Does Mammoth Orange Cafe have outdoor seating?
Yes, this hamburger restaurant offers an outdoor seating facility.
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8. Cotham’s Mercantile
Cotham’s restaurants have a long and distinguished history in the US State of Arkansas. It was first opened in Scott, in 1917 and served as a general store for farmers. This eatery is famous for its rustic setting and friendly services. Thereafter, it opened in Little Rock in October 1999, in the name of Cotham’s In The City.
This restaurant is a quaint little place that serves up some of the best food in Arkansas. The menu features traditional southern cuisine, including items like chicken fried steak, chicken gumbo, and catfish fillets. Plus, there are plenty of options for vegetarians and meat-free diners.
What days are Cotham’s Mercantile in the City open?
Cotham’s Mercantile in the City opens from Monday to Friday, between 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.
How is Cotham’s Mercantile in the city rated?
This restaurant is rated 4 out of 5 and features, based on the 41 reviews available.
9. Doe’s Eat Place In Little Rock
Doe’s Eat Place is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving up quality food since 1988. Located at the corner of Ringo and West Markham in downtown Little Rock, this restaurant is a no-frills steakhouse.
Whether you’re in the mood for a simple hamburger or something more elaborate, Doe’s will have something for you. The restaurant has a wide variety of menu items, including burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more.
It is known for its Doe’s sauce, which is a hot sauce made from bacon, onion, and jalapeno peppers.
Does Eat Place Ridgeland MS menu prices?
Doe’s Eat Place offers delicious food at a reasonable price. Their menu prices include Meatballs at $11, Fried Shrimp at $15, broiled Shrimp at $15, Filet at $42, and Porterhouse at $65.
What is a famous food from Little Rock Arkansas?
There are plenty of signature dishes in Little Rock, including Trotters, Three-Pound Porterhouse, The Pantry’s Board, Biscuits and Gravy, Spicy Chicken and Dumplings, etc.
10. Ozark Cafe in Jasper
Ozark Cafe is a great spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They have a large menu with something for everyone. The restaurant also offers a great selection of drinks and desserts.
The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, perfect for catching up with friends or family.
It is located in the heart of Jasper, so you can easily walk to everything that this downtown community has to offer. The cafe is famous for serving delicious burgers, milkshakes, chocolate gravy, and fresh-cut fries.
How is Ozark cafe rated?
According to Tripadvisor, Ozark Cafe is rated 4.5 out of 5 for food, service, value, and atmosphere.
Is Ozark Cafe currently offering delivery or takeout?
Yes. Ozark Cafe offers delivery or takeout services so you can easily order food and enjoy it without stepping out of your comfort zone.
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11. Charlotte’s Eats & Sweets
Established in 1993 by Charlotte Bowls of Keo, Charlotte’s Eats and Sweets is one of the best restaurants in Arkansas to enjoy delectable desserts. The dessert restaurant is located in Keo, Arkansas, and offers a dine-in and takeaway facility.
It is famous for delicious homemade pies, specialty sandwiches, cakes, sundaes, salads, Keo Kallsic, and lunches.
Does Charlotte Eats and Sweets offer takeout?
Yes, absolutely. Charlotte Eats and Sweets offer takeout services. Pre-order the food to save the wait time.
How is Charlotte’s Eats and Sweets rated?
This restaurant is rated 5 for food, 4.5 for service and value, and 4 for atmosphere, according to Tripadvisor travelers.
Restaurants in Arkansas FAQs
What kind of food is popular in Arkansas?
Arkansas is a foodie paradise, thus attracting food lovers from all around the world. Some of the delicious items you cannot afford to miss while visiting this US state are Donuts, Fried Chicken, Fried Hand Pies, Fried Okra, Hushpuppies, Cornbread, Smoked Turnkey Salad, Possum Pie, Barbecue Pork, The Garden Sandwich, etc.
Looking forward to enjoying the food? Find the cheap land per acre in Arkansas, make a move to this state, and savor these cuisines whenever you want.
What is the official food of Arkansas?
Each US state has its own official food and Arkansas is no different.
- State Fruit: South Arkansas Vine Ripe
- State Vegetable: Pink Tomato
- State Grain: Rice
- State Nut: Pecan
- State Grape: Cynthiana
Conclusion
So, that concludes with the restaurants in Arkansas. We hope our in-depth guide will help you make an informed choice so you can savor delicious cuisines while visiting Arkansas.
This US state has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, you will definitely find an option that fits your needs.
So, what keeps you waiting? Check the cost of living raise in Arkansas, plan your trip, and enjoy mouthwatering food to satiate your taste buds.
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