The Oldest Operating Dairy Bar In Arkansas Has Been Serving Mouthwatering Burgers And Ice Cream For Almost 90 Years
By Melanie Johnson|Published October 20, 2022
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Melanie Johnson
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I am a nature lover and self-proclaimed foodie wrapped in one package. In my previous life, I was an Accountant, but numbers were boring and writing is the only thing that fuels my soul. So, I write because it's my freedom...it brings me joy. When I'm not writing dope articles for OnlyInYourState, I am writing and editing articles for my online blog on Medium.com. Or, when I get the chance, I am off on a trip with my family chasing waterfalls, or simply exploring the great outdoors. My mantra is to always find the best part of every day and bask in it.
Did you know that before there was the Dairy Queen, a tiny dairy bar was opened in El Dorado? That’s right, Betty’s Old Fashion is the oldest dairy bar in Arkansas. And it’s been serving mouthwatering burgers, fries, and ice cream for almost 90 years. Take-out only, printed menu, no credit cards allowed, this quintessential eatery has remained a true representation of what an old-fashioned dairy bar should be.
Located at 1334 East Hillsboro Street in El Dorado, this dairy bar was opened in 1934. Formerly known simply as Old Fashion, Phil Schaaf operated the eatery until 1976.
After he retired, Betty Schaub, who worked at the restaurant, purchased the beloved eatery, and added her name to it. But as you can see, the sign remained the same.
Today, Betty’s Old Fashion has been doing business in the same location and has kept true to its old fashion name. In fact, not much has changed with the dairy bar since it first opened.
There are also breakfast plates, dinner plates, sandwiches, and more. And best of all, almost everything on the menu is under $10. You can’t beat those low prices anywhere!
Featured on Good Morning America as well as highlighted by other notable Arkansas writers, this roadside eatery has remained a staple in the community.
It doesn’t need a fancy website or a Facebook page filled with images to entice its patrons. The delicious food is what keeps repeating customers coming back for more.
Many diners have been eating at Betty’s for over 50 years, and they can’t get enough of the juicy, mouthwatering cheeseburger.
And at prices like $1.00 for a small and $1.25 for a hand dipped cone, you will for sure get your money’s worth.
In addition to the soft serve ice cream, locals love the milkshakes, fried pies, cakes, as well as the banana split, which is piled high with yummy goodness.
Recently, the community came together and supported Betty’s Old Fashion, when there was a threat to remove the restaurant.
The status of the roadside dairy bar is unknown, but it’s currently operating from Tuesday to Sunday from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. So, be sure to visit soon before it’s too late.
Have you ever been to Betty’s Old Fashion to try the burgers or soft serve ice cream? Tell us about it in the comments below.
