Flavorful Finds & Famous Foods in Northwest Arkansas
By Jill Rohrbach
In Northwest Arkansas, the food scene is as diverse and dynamic as the region itself, with options to explore authentic cuisines and creative delights.
Unique Places to Eat in Northwest Arkansas
1. Gear Garden in Bella Vista
Tucked in the heart of Bella Vista’s Blowing Springs trail system, Gear Garden is a laid-back outdoor beer garden catering to lovers of the outdoors. It keeps the community vibe real with local brews, food trucks, live music, special events, and more.
2. Leverett Lounge in Fayetteville
Fayetteville’s Leverett Lounge serves up elevated dishes in an eclectic space filled with vintage wares. It’s the kind of spot where you can sip something fancy and nibble on some killer food while tucked away in an unassuming neighborhood.
3. Arsaga’s Coffee Roasters Mill District in Fayetteville
For breakfast or lunch, step into the bright, industrial space at Arsaga’s Coffee Roasters Mill District in Fayetteville or sit on the shaded patio. The buzz of conversation, clink of mugs, and smell of goodies baking make it one of the city’s favorite hangouts.
4. Gaskins on Emma in Springdale
Modern in décor with punches of bright color, Gaskins on Emma in Springdale is the perfect place for a casual lunch or special night out. The down-home flavors make you want to slow down and savor each bite, while the creative cocktails turn up the vibe.
5. The Hive at 21c Meuseum Hotel in Bentonville
The 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville’s rotating art collection extends to its restaurant, The Hive. The gallery walls of the dining room are as engaging as the Southern-inspired cuisine using locally sourced, seasonally fresh ingredients. Take part in Sip & Tours, which feature art-inspired cocktails and strolls through the latest exhibition.
Famous Places to Get Sweets in Northwest Arkansas
1. Vargas Fruteria in Rogers
In Rogers, Vargas Fruteria’s over-the-top milkshakes are the stuff of kidlike dreams: concoctions with whipped cream, candy, cake, churros, doughnuts, fresh fruit, and just about anything else you can imagine.
2. Granny’s Kitchen in Huntsville
Granny’s Kitchen in Huntsville serves up home-cooked goodies, but the stars are undoubtedly the pies, from coconut and chocolate cream to seasonal favorites. There’s a slice of heaven in every bite.
3. Adam’s Atomic Candy in Siloam Springs
Adam’s Atomic Candy in Siloam Springs is a colorful candy shop packed with retro favorites, modern candy creations, and international sweets. The playful atmosphere overflows with brightly wrapped treats.
Farmers Markets in Northwest Arkansas
Agriculture is the state’s largest industry, and a significant source of Arkansas’ cuisine. Here’s your chance to try the goods.
Northwest Arkansas Farmers Markets: Times & Locations
Bella Vista Farmers Market
- Sunday, 8 am–1 pm, April–October, at 1 Mercy Way
Bentonville Farmers Market
- Saturday, 7:30 am–1 pm, April–October, at Bentonville Square
Berryville Farmers Market
- Thursday, 4–8 pm, May–October, at The Hangout–Food Trucks and More
- Saturday, 10 am–2 pm, May–October, at Berryville Town Square
Eureka Springs Farmers & Friends Market
- Tuesday & Thursday, 8 am–1 pm, March–November, at 4032 E. Van Buren St.
Eureka Springs Farmers Market
- Thursday, 8 am–1 pm, April–December, at the Community Center
Eureka Springs White Street Saturday Market
- Saturday, 9 am–12:30 pm, May–October, at 26 White St.
Fayetteville Farmers Markets
- Tuesday & Thursday, 7 am–1 pm, May–September, at Downtown Fayetteville Square
- Saturday, 7 am–2 pm, April–November, at Downtown Fayetteville Square
- Saturday, 9 am–1 pm, January–March, at Fayetteville Senior Center
Huntsville Farmers Market
- Tuesday, 7 am–noon, April–September, at Huntsville Square
- Saturday, 7 am–noon, April–September, at 103 Church St.
Rogers Farmers Market
- Saturday, 8 am–1 pm, April–October, at 5102 W. Pauline Whitaker Pkwy.
Rogers Local Food & Art Market
- Saturday, 8 am–1 pm, May–October, at Frisco Plaza of Railyard Park
Siloam Springs Farmers Market
- Saturday, 8 am–noon, May–October, at Memorial Park
Springdale Farmers Market
- Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, 7 am–1 pm, May–October, at The Jones Center
Famous Breakfast & Brunch Spots in Northwest Arkansas
Neal’s Cafe in Springdale
Neal’s Cafe in Springdale has been serving up classic Southern comfort food since 1944. People rave about the country breakfast menu and Neal’s giant cinnamon rolls.
Crêpes Paulette in Bentonville & Fayetteville
Crêpes Paulette, with locations in Bentonville and Fayetteville, offer unlimited savory and sweet handheld options ranging from classic ham and cheese to Nutella and strawberries to vegan, gluten-free, and more.
Bella’s Table in Bella Vista
Bella’s Table in Bella Vista is the ultimate place to enjoy a leisurely Sunday brunch of traditional breakfast favorites and comforting Italian pasta dishes.
Locally-Sourced Ingredients in Eureka Springs
For some prime Arkansas cuisine, Harold’s Diner, Soda Fountain & Farmacy in Eureka Springs prioritizes organic ingredients from local farmers, such as the mushrooms and sausage in its breakfast sandwiches. Uniquely, the diner operates as a not-for-profit ministry that feeds people facing food insecurity and asks for a minimum donation in exchange for food.
Amazing Food Trucks in Northwest Arkansas
The War Eagle Drive Food Truck Court
Head to The War Eagle Dive Food Truck Court in Huntsville for a casual lunch—from smoked salmon to Korean barbecue and more—or a fun stop along a scenic drive. The vibe is relaxed, with picnic tables under a shade tent.
The Hangout–Food Trucks and More in Berryville offers coffee, food, shaved ice, local vendors, and special events, including a weekly farmers market, as well as picnic tables and a shaded area for a comfortable dining experience.
The Boardwalk Food Truck Court in Springdale
With nearly a dozen local and international food vendors, a beer hut, live events and entertainment, The Boardwalk Food Truck Court in Springdale is a lively spot for food and fun. Picnic tables and shaded seating areas make it easy to settle in and savor your meal.