The Off-the-Beaten-Path Restaurant in Arkansas That Is Worth the Day Trip

One thing you must know about me is that I will travel for food. Some of my pursuits have taken me to hole-in-the-wall places where I’ve indulged in some of the best meals in my life. If you ask me, those little mom-and-pop shops usually have the most mouthwatering food that you can imagine, that literally warms your soul. Not to mention, these joints have friendly folks and are brimming with so much charm. 

That’s especially true for Chester Country Cafe in Chester, Arkansas. No matter where you live in the state, the food at this off-the-beaten-path restaurant in Arkansas is worth the drive. If you can imagine eating delicious fried chicken and fried catfish for lunch or having chocolate gravy with biscuits for breakfast, then this small-town restaurant in Arkansas is the place for you. If you’ve never been to Chester, it’s time you plan a day trip to this charming town to experience the best of it.

When it comes to small towns in Arkansas, Chester is by far one of the tiniest towns in the state. After all, it only has about 150 residents, but don't let that fool you; this tiny town is mighty, and there is plenty to do here. There are unique shops, lots of outdoor recreation, and I can't forget restaurants with delicious food. One of which is Chester Country Cafe, which serves some of the best comfort food in the area.

Don't expect any extra frills from this unassuming mom-and-pop shop, but do expect the food to be cooked just like grandma used to make it. If you're there for breakfast, you can enjoy hearty country favorites like pancakes, eggs, bacon, breakfast potatoes, chicken-fried steaks, and more. No matter what you do, don't skip the chocolate gravy with biscuits for breakfast; the owner highly recommends it.

For lunch, order a juicy hamburger, or try the Reuben, the chicken sandwich, or the Philly cheesesteak. I recommend that you add a drink and fries to complete your meal. If you're there on Thursday, the fried chicken lunch plate is one of the most popular items on the menu. And Friday's lunch special is the fried catfish that comes with cornbread or hushpuppies and two seasonal sides.

Dinner includes platters with chicken-fried steaks, chicken strips, fish, as well as daily specials that might include fried chicken, meatloaf, and spaghetti, just to name a few. Whether you live in the area or you're just passing through, a stop here is well worth it. As one past patron raves, "Amazing burger and fries. Presentation of food was beautiful! Sweet tea was the perfect sweetness. The dessert was the best! I 100% recommend stopping and having a bite at this place!"

Of course, you must save room for dessert while you're here. The strawberry shortcakes made with locally grown berries and fresh whipped cream will leave you coming back for more. Other favorites include peach cobbler, cakes, cookies, as well as seasonal treats. Honestly, you can't go wrong with treating yourself to something sweet.

Now that you're nice and full, it's time to explore the tiny town of Chester some more. Within walking distance of Chester Country Cafe, you will find the most charming place in town - the Beard and Lady Inn. Part mercantile store, part inn, part restaurant, and a historical landmark, you'll find plenty to keep you busy here.

If you're up for some outdoor activities, stop by Chester City Park. This pretty little oasis is on the banks of Clear Creek, so you can bring your rod and spend the day fishing here. Plus, there is a beautiful waterfall and swimming hole, that's perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Want more? Lake Fort Smith State Park in Mountainburg is only a 10-minute drive from Chester, so you can even spend the day hiking, kayaking, boating, and fishing, and you can spend the night camping here, too.

So, the next time you're yearning for a good down-home cooked meal, plan a day trip to the tiny town of Chester to enjoy food like what your grandma used to make. Then spend the day exploring all that this charming small town in Arkansas has to offer.

What is your favorite off-the-beaten-path restaurant in Arkansas? What city or town is it located in? When was the last time you planned a day trip to eat there? Tell us all about it on our nomination page.

Also, while you're in the area, we recommend that you visit the town of Mountainburg for even more adventure. Or when you're feeling inspired, use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to personalize your own day trip in Arkansas.