Looks can be deceiving. For instance, when you first set eyes on Jones Bar-B-Q Diner in Arkansas, it doesn’t appear to be anything special. In fact, aside from the signage out front, it’s not even clear that it’s a restaurant. But it is a restaurant – and not just any restaurant. With numerous accolades under its belt, it’s one of the most acclaimed restaurants in Arkansas.

Occupying the bottom floor of a residence in the small town of Marianna, Jones Bar-B-Q Diner is pretty discreet – but only in appearance.
Frode Hoff/Google
Its reputation stretches far and wide – and goes back decades, even longer than the diner’s sign indicates.
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Jones Bar-B-Q Diner didn’t officially open until 1964. However, the Jones family had been doling out great BBQ since 1910.
The diner’s age is one its most notable features. It’s billed as “the oldest African-American owned restaurant in the South and possibly the nation.”
charliespr/TripAdvisor
That’s not its only claim to fame, though. The diner has won lots of awards over the years, including being designated as an America’s Classic by the James Beard Foundation.
Holland/Google
It definitely lives up to the hype. Both locals and tourists flock to the diner for a taste of the famous BBQ pork, which is served two ways – on white bread or by the pound.
Senthil/TripAdvisor

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The flavorful pork is so good, it’s the only thing whipped up at Jones Bar-B-Q Diner.
Senthil/TripAdvisor
Canned drinks and bagged chips are also available for purchase.
Holland/Google
Ready to visit this legendary BBQ joint?
Valerie Smith/Google
Remember, it’s best to call before you visit. The diner regularly sells out – despite cooking a whopping 900 pounds of pork a week!
Jacob Loeb/Google
Also, there are only two tables, which means you might have to take your grub to-go.
Valerie Smith/Google

 

For more information, call Jones Bar-B-Q Diner at (870) 295-3807. You can also visit the diner’s Facebook page.

So, did you know about this landmark diner? Ever visited? If so, what’d you think of the BBQ? Tell us!

This isn’t the only trek-worthy BBQ restaurant in Arkansas. Click here for 9 holes-in-the-wall that you don’t want to pass up.

 

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Jones Bar-B-Q Diner, 219 W Louisiana St, Marianna, AR 72360, USA