Somewhat of an heirloom, Neal’s Café has been passed down through the Neal family for generations. The iconic café isn’t just an integral part of the family’s legacy, though. As one of the state’s oldest restaurants, it’s a huge part of Arkansas’ history too.
A Springdale staple, Neal’s Café opened its doors in 1944 and has been doling out the “best of better foods” ever since.
The quality of food isn’t the only thing that hasn’t changed over the years, though. To this day, the café is still owned and operated by the Neal family. Currently, it’s run by the family's 4th generation.
It's the oldest family-owned restaurant in Northwest Arkansas. But that’s not its only distinguishing feature. There's also the cafe's eye-catching pink hue.
Its interior, which is also pink and adorned in taxidermy, is just as quirky.
And while the cafe's unique appearance might be what first attracts diners, it's the food that keeps them coming back.
Like dining at Grandma's, the menu is filled with homemade Southern dishes.
Diners can fill up on catfish, meatloaf, chicken fried steak, fresh-baked rolls, and other Southern favorites.
There are delicious homemade desserts too.
Not surprisingly, the café's received countless accolades over the years.
Most recently, it was inducted into the 2022 Arkansas Food Hall of Fame.
And at one time, Southern Living deemed it “one of the top places in America to eat fried chicken.”
Between its lengthy history and myriad of honors, Neal’s Café isn’t just an eatery. It’s a state legend – one that every resident should visit at least once. For more info, call Neal’s Café at (479) 751-9996. You can also visit the Neal’s Café Facebook page.
This isn’t the state’s only restaurant that’s withstood the test of time. There are several others, including the oldest restaurant in Arkansas.
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