Arkansas is home to a variety of delicious dishes with names that can be tricky for visitors to pronounce. Some come from French culinary roots while others are unique local specialties.
These names might sound unfamiliar or confusing at first, but they’re part of what makes dining in Arkansas special. Locals have been saying them for generations, and mastering the pronunciations can make ordering at restaurants easier and more enjoyable.
Getting these names right not only shows respect for the state’s food culture but also helps newcomers feel more at home when exploring Arkansas cuisine.
1. Petit Jean Ham
This premium Arkansas ham gets its name from Petit Jean Mountain, but don’t let the French fool you. Most locals say it like “PET-it-jeen” instead of the proper French pronunciation…