17 Best Restaurants in Bentonville, AR
Welcome to my culinary journey through Bentonville, Arkansas!
Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, Bentonville is a vibrant city that celebrates its rich heritage while embracing the new and innovative.
It's not just the headquarters of Walmart or the gateway to the stunning Ozark mountains, but it's also a burgeoning foodie paradise.
From authentic Southern comfort food to exciting fusion cuisine, the local restaurant scene here is as diverse as it is delightful.
So, pull up a chair and join me as I introduce you to some of the best restaurants in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Let's whet our appetites and embark on this epicurean adventure together.
Bon appétit!
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself
Señor Shreddy's
Ah, the luscious taste of Mexican street food right here in our city!
I've just come back from my latest culinary adventure at Señor Shreddy's, and boy, was it an experience to remember!
Launched by the amazing duo Sergio and Anthony, this new food truck is making waves across the local food scene.
I made the quick drive from my place to Bentonville Brewing, the parked spot for the truck.
My order of the day?
The birria quesadilla.
One bite, and I was hit with an explosion of flavors, just so good!
I couldn't resist and ended up ordering the veggie burrito as well but with a little tweak.
I asked them to make it 'wet' with queso and salsa and to exclude the cilantro.
What made me fall in love with Señor Shreddy's was not just the fantastic food but also the people serving it.
An amazing family runs it, and their warmth and hospitality are palpable in their service.
The joy they take in their work reflects in the food they serve.
And it's not just me who's a fan.
My friends, too, are all praises for Señor Shreddy's.
They had the street tacos - all six options - and the pork pulitas.
Not one of them was disappointed.
Ozark Mountain Bagel Co
Every Sunday morning for me begins with the wafting scents of freshly baked bagels from Ozark Mountain Bagel Co.
The irresistible aroma tempts me to get out of bed, and I find myself walking into their welcoming doors, ready to serve me my favorite bagel.
The variety of flavors they offer is astounding, and satisfying my bagel cravings has never been this delightful.
From the moment I step in, I can hear the crackling sounds of hot bagels coming straight out of the oven, some oozing with cheese pulls that make my mouth water.
Even though it's not your typical coffee shop, the simplicity of their coffee is a perfect match with their delicious bagels.
A standout feature for me, a person with a restricted diet and food allergies, is their ability to accommodate my dietary needs.
The attention to detail in ensuring that I can safely and thoroughly enjoy my meal is something I appreciate immensely.
Another interesting aspect of my visits to Ozark Mountain Bagel Co is the local touch they add to their coffee.
By choosing a local coffee roaster, they ensure that even the coffee has a unique touch that makes it stand out.
MELD Kitchen + Sandwich Bar
Stepping into the world of food in our city inevitably leads you to the discovery of hidden gems.
MELD Kitchen + Sandwich Bar is one of them.
A hole in the wall tucked away in a corner, and yet, it never fails to surprise you with its impeccable flavors and extraordinary service.
It's a regular haunt for me, especially when I want to grab a quick bite or catch up with friends over some healthy, tasty food.
Despite its seemingly small size, this place is capable of hosting quite a crowd.
MELD Kitchen + Sandwich Bar's website is a testament to its popularity, with pictures of its cozy interiors and delicious dishes.
Creating my perfect meal at MELD Kitchen + Sandwich Bar is always a fun task.
I love customizing my spinach sandwich with garlic aoli instead of balsamic vinegar.
It's a little tweak, but it makes a world of difference to the taste.
However, I do wish they had more side options to choose from.
The thing I love the most about this place is how fresh and homemade everything tastes.
Their soups du jour are always a delight, and the tomato soup is a hearty treat.
I remember the first time I tried one of their stuffed tacos.
Three chicken tacos loaded with fresh lettuce, herbs, avocado, cheese, and a drop of sour cream.
It was a burst of flavors in every bite!
They also have excellent vegetarian options like the Mushroom Tacos, which I promise, are a must-try even if you're not a vegetarian.
Aside from the main course, MELD Kitchen + Sandwich Bar also serves daily flavored ice teas and cookies that are simply unbelievable.
Crepes Paulette
Every Sunday morning, my city comes alive with the aroma of fresh crêpes from a vibrant little store known as Crepes Paulette.
The place is a beehive of activity, with locals and visitors queuing up for their favorite sweet or savory handheld crêpes.
But don't let the long line at the counter intimidate you.
The crêpes here are a delightful balance of flavors, never skimping on the fillings.
I remember my first sweet crêpe here; it was filled with strawberries and dark chocolate.
While I was initially taken aback by the bitterness of the chocolate, it soon grew on me, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the strawberries.
Even now, each bite takes me back to that day.
Occasionally, I like to switch things up and go for their savory options.
Their La Lean Green and L’Italian crepes, filled with spinach and their homemade pesto, are definitely worth trying.
The pesto, though a bit gritty, is incredibly delicious and makes for a refreshing change from the usual fare.
One of the things I love about Crepes Paulette is the relaxed outdoor seating.
There are plenty of shaded areas with tables, making it a pleasant spot to sit and enjoy your meal, even on a busy day.
Sushi House
I must say that I've developed a ritual of sorts.
Every time I experience that unmistakable sushi craving, I find myself at Sushi House.
This vibrant sushi bar, tucked away in Bentonville, has become my go-to spot for good company and even better sushi.
My first visit to Sushi House was shortly after I moved to the area.
It was a pleasant surprise to find such an authentic, bustling sushi bar in my new hometown.
Their sushi rolls were a delightful treat to my taste buds.
I was so impressed that I became a regular, often visiting three times a week.
What I appreciate most about Sushi House is their knack for making you feel at home.
They have this routine of serving free edamame with a warm bowl of miso soup as soon as you get seated, which is a welcome gesture for any sushi lover like me.
And here's a little secret: sometimes, if your order is large enough, they might just surprise you with a flaming appetizer on the house.
But that's not all.
The vibe of the place is a perfect blend of young professionalism and a homely feel - just the right setting for a long, relaxed outing with friends.
What keeps me going back to Sushi House, apart from the delicious sushi, is their attention to detail.
I recall a busy night when I decided to do a pick-up order.
Despite the restaurant being packed, the service was prompt, and the sushi, as always, was delicious.
I specifically tried their local "Bentonville" roll that night, along with my usual favorites.
Their prices are fair, service is on point, and their sushi never disappoints - an all-around win in my book.
Wright's Barbecue
Oh, the many afternoons I've found myself at Wright's Barbecue in Bentonville.
Nestled conveniently next to the trails, it's the perfect pit stop for a quick meal after a long bike ride.
Don't worry about parking; they've got a space for your bikes - a delightful perk in my book.
And if you're feeling the heat, you're just a stone's throw away from the chill zone, a little splash area to cool off.
Now, let's talk about the food.
Goodness, where do I start?
The beef rib, my friends, is something to write home about.
The meat literally falls off the bone, and the flavor, oh the flavor, it's simply divine.
Also, the barbecue sauces they offer, each one adds a unique depth to their dishes.
If you have a sweet tooth like me, go for the bold one and pair it with the Alabama white sauce.
Trust me; it's a match made in heaven.
Don't even get me started on the sides.
The mac & cheese, potato salad, and beans - they're all just as scrumptious.
And don't forget their brisket nachos, a delight for the senses, and the smoked chicken - now that's a winner right there.
It's almost annoying how good everything is, but hey, I'm not complaining.
PinoyLicious Filipino Kitchen
Every once in a while, I stumble upon a gem in my hometown that completely astounds me with its simplicity yet delightful charm.
The other day, while heading to the dog park, I ventured into PinoyLicious Filipino Kitchen.
It was an experience that tantalized my taste buds and left me wanting more.
It was around midday, and the place was bustling with activity.
The aroma of Filipino cuisine wafted in the air as I approached the counter.
On another occasion, I had the chance to try their pork sisig.
It was a flavor explosion in my mouth.
I opted for spice level 2, and boy, did it have a good kick to it!
The lumpia was hot and crispy, filled to the brim with flavorful stuffing.
But what stole my heart was the hot chocolate drink called "sikwate," especially on those cold days while exploring the park.
The charm of PinoyLicious Filipino Kitchen wasn't only confined to its food but also to its warm service.
Roll & Fold
Oh, the joy of stumbling upon a culinary goldmine that never fails to impress!
I've been frequenting Roll & Fold for over three years now, and the place continues to be a delight with each visit.
The menu is a gastronomical journey through the realm of Asian cuisine.
The cellophane noodles are an absolute must-try, as are the slow-braised beef noodles.
But where Roll & Fold really shines is their dumplings - each bite is a flavor explosion that leaves you craving for more.
And if you're in the mood for something refreshing, their boba selection is pretty legit.
You simply can't go wrong with any choice here.
I've seen family and friends, locals and visitors alike, devour their food with gusto.
My teenage son, for instance, swears that their basil chicken is the best thing he's ever tasted.
We've explored a good part of their menu, and not once have we been disappointed.
Bar Cleeta
If there's one place I always find myself returning to in Bentonville, it has to be Bar Cleeta.
This gem of a restaurant is centrally located in our city and is a privately owned beauty that steals my heart every time.
My partner and I have turned to make reservations at Bar Cleeta into a tradition for our anniversaries.
Its warm, cozy, and rarely crowded ambiance provides the ideal setting for a romantic evening.
But what sets the place apart for me is their experimental menu that changes every time you visit, showcasing their skilled intent in every dish they create.
Their small plates concept allows you to experiment with various dishes and pair them with a selection from their fabulous range of wines.
Two of my all-time favorites have been the marinated olives and charred broccoli rabe, undoubtedly among the best places in the city.
The beef tartare was a culinary delight, too; it's one of those meals that makes you want to come back for more.
However, I was slightly disappointed with their tarte forestière, which didn't quite live up to my expectations of a tarte.
Similar was the case with the chocolate mousse, which was more of a ‘pot de crème’ but delicious nonetheless.
But the charm of Bar Cleeta is not just limited to the food and ambiance.
They've accommodated my friends and me for late-night wine and chats, making us feel welcome even after regular hours.
Beach BBQ
Alright, here's the scoop.
Whenever I get a hankering for some good old-fashioned barbecue, I head straight to Beach BBQ.
Trust me, when they say they know how to grill, they aren't kidding.
I've been chowing down on their offerings for a while now, and I'm yet to be disappointed.
My go-to order is the BBQ Nachos and the Beach Corn – a match made in heaven, I tell you.
The nachos are so filling, and the corn, while not out-of-this-world, complements the nachos well.
If you're feeling adventurous, give their burnt ends a shot.
Make sure you get there early, though, they run out of these pretty fast.
Now, my partner, he's more into the two-meat platter.
He's partial to the brisket, which is always moist and packed with flavor.
The pulled pork and sides are a bit of a hit-or-miss, but the brisket more than makes up for it.
What makes Beach BBQ special, though, isn't just their mouth-watering barbecue; it's the ambiance.
There's this great vibe that's hard to put into words.
I remember one time we had our local book club meeting there and they let us sample their brisket.
Talk about customer service!
But don't just take my word for it.
Head over to Beach BBQ and taste the magic yourself.
The First Seat Pub & Grill
In the heart of Bentonville lies a hidden gem, The First Seat Pub & Grill.
Nestled off the main square, this quaint pub offers a unique experience worth checking out.
It's a small, cozy place with a casual atmosphere and seating for about 30-35 guests, making it a perfect spot for a quiet evening out.
I usually perch myself at the bar, savoring the crisp, cold beer and soaking in the jovial vibes around me.
On days I'm feeling adventurous, I delve into their extensive list of wines, bourbons, and whiskeys.
The First Seat is not just about drinks, though.
They serve up some hearty grub guaranteed to tickle your tastebuds.
My usual go-to is the Bourbon BBQ wings, a succulent treat that hits the spot just right.
Plus, it's always great not having to spend a fortune on quality food.
Their specialty burgers are also worth mentioning, especially the Jack the Ripper burger.
It's absolutely yummy, with a kick of flavor from the jalapeños that doesn't overwhelm your palate.
And don't even get me started on their Pretzel sticks appetizer with beer cheese dip.
It's divine!
For all the seafood lovers out there, the Fish and Chips are a must-try.
Fresh cod, battered to perfection - crispy and not too flaky, holding the fish together well.
River Grille Steakhouse
Last Friday, I stumbled upon a hidden gem, a place that I've passed countless times without noticing - the River Grille Steakhouse.
From the outside, the restaurant might not seem like much.
But the moment you step inside, a transformation occurs.
The elegant wood-paneled dining room, the dimmed lights, and the inviting piano transport you to a different place and time.
The ambiance, however, isn't the only thing that River Grille has going for it.
Let's talk about their food!
Last Friday, my partner and I started off our dinner with drinks and a crab dip that was utterly divine.
For our main course, we ordered a ribeye and roasted chicken, both impeccably cooked and served with a side of mashed potatoes and asparagus.
Each bite was an explosion of flavors, making me regret not discovering this place sooner.
But the star of the night was undoubtedly their USDA Prime steaks.
I had the Steak Oscar, while my partner opted for the filet and lobster.
Both dishes were cooked to perfection, leaving us delightfully satisfied.
What makes this place stand out even more, is the exceptional service.
Arkanseoul
From the hustle and bustle of daily life, I often find myself seeking comfort in a bowl of hot, flavorful Korean food.
And honestly, there's no better place to get that than at Arkanseoul.
They not only served food but also advice on what to try.
I was feeling adventurous that day, so I asked them for the spiciest dish they could whip up with meat - and boy, they did not disappoint!
Over time, I've tried almost everything on the menu.
The beef and spicy pork bowl has been my favorite so far - a delectable combination of flavors that tingles your taste buds in the best way possible.
But Arkanseoul isn't only about the spicy goodness.
The place is also home to one of the best-breaded wings in the city.
My nephew swears by their wings, and I can vouch for the fact that their crunch is indeed 'off the charts,' as he puts it.
A visit to Arkanseoul is incomplete without trying their scallion pancake appetizer and the beef Bulgogi.
The beef Bulgogi, in particular, is a dish that stands out with its incredible flavors and tender meat.
It is just the kind of meal that leaves you feeling warm and satisfied.
One of the things that makes this place a local favorite is the promptness with which the food is served.
Bistro 301
One of the remarkable aspects of living in NWA, Bentonville, is the chance to explore the local culinary scene.
Among the numerous dining spots in the city, one that has become a personal favorite is Bistro 301.
Nestled in the heart of the city, the establishment has become my go-to place for a wide variety of healthy and supremely delicious meals.
My typical meal at Bistro 301 begins with a visit to their outstanding salad bar.
For someone who's conscious about their diet, like me, this is a paradise.
The salad bar offers an impressive range of fresh vegetables and protein options.
The thing that makes it stand out is the fact that everything is so reasonably priced.
But it's not just the salad bar that has me coming back time and again.
Bistro 301 also serves fresh and flavorful soup, heartening chili, and perfectly baked potatoes.
And they even have pies for when you want to indulge a little.
Another aspect that I appreciate about Bistro 301 is the ambiance.
It's the perfect place to hang out with friends, catch up, and share a meal.
The service is equally commendable.
Petit Bistro
When you walk into Petit Bistro, you walk into an atmosphere that is magical yet intimate in a way that is unparalleled by any other dining experience.
Whether it's to celebrate something special or simply to spend quality time with loved ones, Petit Bistro has played the perfect host to all these moments for me.
The first thing that will catch your eye is the charm of the place.
The historic home conversion gives it an old-world charm that instantly makes you feel at ease.
However, the real magic begins when they bring you the food.
The scrumptious dishes they serve here are nothing short of mesmerizing.
I remember being particularly taken aback by the simple yet mouth-wateringly delicious spinach.
Just a hint of poppy seeds and a dash of lemon, and the spinach was transformed into a dish so flavorful that it became the star of the evening.
The steak here is another story altogether.
Cooked to a perfect medium rare with just a hint of char, it was a perfect symphony of textures and flavors that left me wanting more.
However, it was my partner's petite pork shank with plum sauce that completely stole the show.
It was so tender that they didn't even need to bring a knife!
The ambiance is something that needs to be experienced.
Not too dark, not too bright, just right for a romantic dinner or a heart-to-heart conversation with friends.
And then there's the dessert.
The creme brulee at Petit Bistro is a revelation.
It's the kind of dish that could make you want to visit this place again and again, just for a taste.
Tusk & Trotter American Brasserie
There’s no better way to wrap up a day than with a hearty meal that delights your tastebuds in every bite.
Being a part of Bentonville, I've had my fair share of memorable dining experiences.
But, one that stands out is the evening I decided to try Tusk & Trotter American Brasserie.
As soon as I walked into the gastropub, I was instantly drawn to its rustic-chic ambiance, a perfect blend of casual comfort and elegant charm.
The aroma of sizzling delicacies wafting from the kitchen set the tone for the evening.
I was excited to try out their locally sourced, seasonal menu and craft beers.
My gastronomic adventure began with the Arkansas Fritters, a delightful appetizer that was an explosion of flavors.
The Flintstone and Blackened Chicken Club followed, each dish surpassing the last in taste and presentation.
To add a tangy twist, I also ordered their pickled veggies that perfectly complemented the hearty meal.
But what stole the show was the Flourless Brownie.
Warm, gooey, and just the right amount of sweetness, it was truly a dessert lover's dream come true.
To wash down all the deliciousness, I sipped on their Hibiscus sparking wine, a delightful drink that not just quenched my thirst but also elevated the entire dining experience.
Their professionalism and friendly demeanor made the dining experience at Tusk & Trotter even more enjoyable.
Weekends are best spent at Tusk & Trotter's Sunday brunch.
Although they have a limited menu, the hot fried chicken sandwich is a must-try.
The parmesan garlic truffle fries, albeit a bit limp, were delectable.
Pho 85 Noodle House
Have you ever been on the hunt for the perfect Vietnamese Pho?
Well, I have.
In fact, I had tried countless Pho restaurants in the area before I found my favorite place, the Pho 85 Noodle House in Bentonville.
Every meal here started with the most crispy and flaky pork egg rolls.
These delicious bites, four to an order, were filled with a fantastic blend of flavors that I couldn't get enough of.
But then, always up for trying something different, I ventured out of my comfort zone and opted for the BB2 Bun Bo Hue Brisket soup.
This traditional dish is packed with slow-cooked, robust flavors, generous amounts of beef, and a medley of veggies.
And being the adventurous foodie that I am, I decided to switch it out for Chicken Pho.
And guess what?
Now, that's what I call service!
My new choice, the Chicken Pho, was nothing short of a taste sensation.
It had a warm spice flavor, plenty of all-white chicken, the ideal amount of green onions and cilantro, and more than enough noodles.
I like to add a few extra veggies to my bowl, like broccoli, cabbage, and carrots, for that added crunch and nutrition.
The service at Pho 85 Noodle House was always top-notch.
We've also tried the grilled sliced pork bun and the spring rolls on another visit.
The pork was well-marinated, while the spring rolls were crunchy, just the way we like them!
More protein and fewer noodles were a nice surprise.
Final Thoughts
Bentonville, Arkansas, is truly a dream for food lovers like me.
From the mouth-watering brisket at Wright's Barbecue to the unique blends of flavors at Arkanseoul, there's always something to satisfy my cravings.
Each restaurant and café has its own charm and specialty, and I'm excited to continue exploring them all.
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