We Arkansans don’t like anything coming between us and our supper but sometimes an extra long wait time is a necessary evil. Word has gotten out about these restaurants and now everyone wants a bite. Pack your patience and call ahead because these famous Arkansas restaurants are busy but so worth it.
1. Doe's Eat Place
Although it originated in Mississippi, Arkansans have adopted Doe's Eat Place as a state staple. You're most likely within reach of a scrumptious slab of shareable sirloin since they have 5 Arkansas locations. Besides great steaks, Doe's is also known for their hot tamales. They've been using the same delicious recipe since 1941.
For their menu and addresses, you can scroll through their website
here.
2. McClard's Bar-B-Q
McClard's has been famous for the best BBQ sauce since 1928. The forth generation of McClard's serve over 7,000-lbs. of hickory-smoked beef, pork, and ribs a week! Lunch time will be packed but we promise standing in line for one of their platters and buttermilk shakes is worth it. McClard's is located at 505 Albert Pike Road in Hot Springs.
3. Powerhouse Seafood & Grill
The Powerhouse lives up to is name when it comes to serving the fantastic seafood, they've been voted best seafood in NWA for 20 years. From oysters to gator, Powerhouse can satisfy whatever sea creature you're craving. Weekends will be especially packed but it's a great stop on your way to a show at George's Majestic Lounge. Powerhouse is at 112 N University Ave. in Fayetteville.
4. George's Restaurant
"Don't fill up on fries, save room for pie" is the best plan of action to take at George's. This burger joint is one of the tastiest in Fort Smith and the whole town knows it. You may have to fight for a table but uncovering a jalapeno burger from a mountain of fries makes the wait worth it. George's Restaurant is located at 2120 Grand Ave. in Fort Smith.
5. Fisherman's Wharf Steak & Seafood
You can be entertained by the ducks and piles of catfish that swim next to the wharf while you wait in line. The Grouper Oscar is our favorite dish, it's grouper topped with shrimp, crab meat, and asparagus. This classic seafood eatery is a must stop for anyone visiting Hot Springs. The Fisherman's Wharf is on the shore of Lake Hamilton at 5101 Central Ave. in Hot Springs.
6. Griffin Restaurant
Please note, Griffin Restaurant has permanently closed.
El Dorado has been getting all the attention for their revamp of downtown with the Murphy Arts District. The hype hasn't stopped at their new restaurant, Griffin. Reservations are a must for this delicious farm-to-table eatery. We couldn't stop drooling over their Razorback and Mac, it's a casserole pasta with Havarti, sharp cheddar and Muenster and topped with pulled pork. Griffin is in downtown El Dorado at 101 East Locust Street.
7. Whole Hog Cafe
What started as three dudes and a BBQ contest has developed into a mouthwatering chain of smokey deliciousness. Whole Hog Cafe has 9 Arkansas locations that are mostly centered around their home base in Little Rock. They may be packed but when pork tenderloin, brisket, and ribs are on the line, you know it's worth it.
To find the nearest Whole Hog Cafe near you, go
here.
8. Ozark Cafe
This little cafe is the worst kept secret in Jasper. The 100 year old cafe is home to the deep-fried burger and creator of the Excaliburger, a 1/2-lb. burger sandwiched between two cheese sandwiches and doused in Ozark sauce. With live music every Saturday night, you know the wait time may be a little long but you have to have one of their burgers. The Ozark Cafe is located on the square at 107 East Court Street in Jasper.
9. Slim Chickens
Slim Chickens has ruled the roost in Arkansas for over a decade. The dining style may be fast/casual but that doesn't change the line out the door. Cars are wrapped around the drive through for their Chicken & Waffle Wednesdays.
Slim Chickens has taken over the world, to find the one closest to you, go
here.
10. Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave
The Grotto is one of the most unique dining experiences in the state. The "cave" part of their name comes from the continuously running stream the restaurant was erected around. Everyone wants the chance to splurge on Wood-Fired Cedar Plank Salmon or try the Quail Poppers. The Grotto is located at 10 Center Street in Eureka Springs.
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