Arkansas hides some incredible dining treasures that tourists rarely discover. These mom-and-pop establishments serve up mouthwatering dishes with a side of Southern hospitality that keeps locals coming back for more.
From century-old general stores to riverboat-themed diners, these hidden gems offer authentic flavors and experiences you won’t find in guidebooks.
1. Charlotte’s Eats & Sweets – A Slice of Heaven in Keo
Housed in an old drugstore, Charlotte’s has been serving the best mile-high meringue pies in Arkansas since 1993. The tiny town of Keo might seem sleepy, but lunch hour here brings a packed house of devoted fans.
Their legendary chocolate pie has been featured in Southern Living magazine three times. Many regulars drive over an hour just for their famous Thursday special – chicken and dumplings that taste just like grandma used to make.
2. The Venesian Inn – Tontitown’s Italian Time Capsule
Family-owned since 1947, this Italian restaurant preserves recipes brought directly from Italy by Tontitown’s founding families. The homemade rolls with their special herb butter alone justify the trip…