All over the Natural State, you’ll find delicious restaurants. But you usually go to the same ones, right? Everybody has their favorites. Are you ready for something new? Below you’ll find 10 eateries that you may not have heard of before, either because they’re tucked away off the beaten path, or because they’re in a town you’re not all that familiar with. Whatever the case, you’ll find extraordinary food at these 10 under-the-radar Arkansas eateries.
1. Big’s (Batesville)
Big’s is located in an adorable little building in Batesville, and it’s a local favorite because of the fantastic service, great atmosphere, and truly scrumptious sandwiches. You might not know about this happening little joint, but after reading this article you won’t have that excuse. Drive to 101 East Main Street in Batesville as soon as possible to enjoy this gem.
2. Minute Man (El Dorado)
Minute Man is one of those little joints most locals know about and love, but you may not have heard of it if you are not from El Dorado. This friendly family-owned restaurant has a small town atmosphere and includes some of the most delicious burgers you’ll ever eat. Get some at 318 West Main Street in El Dorado.
3. Partovi’s Gyros and Falafel (Jonesboro)
It’s easy to miss this little place in downtown Jonesboro because, well, it’s really tiny. Its small size shouldn’t be a deterrent though, this tiny place serves up some huge flavor. From traditional gyros to totally scrumptious falafel, you’ll find all your Mediterranean favorites at 210 South Main Street in Jonesboro.
4. Rosalinda Restaurante Hondureño (North Little Rock)
You might not have heard of this little eatery, but you need to go there right away. They’ve got friendly staff, an extensive menu, and truly incredible flavor. You can get absolutely perfect fried plantains, fresh pupusas, and tons of authentic Honduran menu items you’re sure to love. You'll find this treasure at 900 West 35th Street in North Little Rock.
5. Delta Q (Forrest City)
Delta Q is a superb little barbecue spot in Forrest City. Arkansas’s delta region has just about the best barbecue anywhere, and Delta Q is one of the best among them. From fresh pork rinds to falling-off-the-bone ribs to totally delectable sandwoiches, Delta Q is a necessity for Arkansas foodies. You can find it at 1112 North Washington Street in Forrest City.
6. Bubbie’s (Monticello)
Bubbie’s is tucked away from the main traffic in Monticello, so it’s easy to miss, but that just means it’s so good folks are willing to go off the beaten path to find it. They’ve got delicious barbecue, burgers, and hand-cut fries that are sure to leave you coming back for more. You’ll find them at 157 North Park Drive in Monticello.
7. Surfas Culinary District (Hot Springs)
If you’re a foodie who loves to chef it up, you really can’t miss the Surfas Culinary District. It’s a multipurpose destination where you can shop for amazing kitchen gadgets and grab some lunch in their fantastic gourmet café. You’ll get made to order sandwiches, delicious daily soups, and phenomenal salads. They’re located at 510 Ouachita Avenue in Hot Springs National Park.
8. Chopping Block Steakhouse (Mena)
If you’re looking for a delicious steak, you’ll definitely want to stop in at this adorable little log cabin. This family owned business has been hanging out in the small town of Mena for forty seven years now, serving up steaming hot plates of deliciousness. You’ll find superb steaks, fantastic burgers, and friendly service all located in a homey little cabin setting. The Chopping Block Steakhouse is located at 1156 Highway 71 South in Mena.
9. Wilson Café (Wilson)
If you’re looking for charm you need to immediately drive to the small town of Wilson and find the Wilson Café. The setting of this little eatery is as about as adorable as seventy five puppies, and it has great service and delicious fresh food to boot. Much of the food there comes directly from Wilson Gardens, making this a farm-to-table experience you won’t want to miss. Wilson Café is located at 2 North Jefferson Street in Wilson.
10. Catfish Hole (Alma)
This restaurant is a favorite of locals, but you’re probably missing out if, in the vernacular, "you ain’t from ‘round here." At Catfish Hole you’ll find huge platters of catfish and as many fixins as you can handle, served in heaping bowls. I will be the first to personally recommend their transcendent hush puppies. Those little puppies are crazy good. They’re located at 24 Collum Lane West in Alma.
To find other eateries you may not have heard of, try these little known, mom and pop, and hole in the wall restaurants.
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