Top 5 Arkansas Food & Drink: A Delicious Review

So, you like you have a hankering for some true Arkansas flavor? As a matter of fact, Arkansas actually has a lot more going on in the food and drink department than folks might think. You know, forget the usual tourist traps and get ready to tuck into some genuine, mouthwatering tastes of the Natural State. At the end of the day, from succulent BBQ that just melts in your mouth to drinks that practically sing Southern charm, this list will be your ticket to tasting Arkansas like a local. Well, let’s take a look at the top 5 food and drink experiences that Arkansas truly offers.

1. Delta Tamales: A Mississippi River Tradition

So, you’re probably wondering what exactly Delta tamales are, right? Like your typical tamale’s cousin, but, actually, it is bolder, spicier, and steeped in history. Well, these tasty little packages usually originated from the Mississippi Delta region, a bit of it spreading into Arkansas. Clearly, not like the Mexican version, these usually feature a coarser grind of cornmeal and are often simmered in a rich, seasoned broth, absorbing all that incredible flavor. Anyway, it’s almost like a flavorful secret that has passed through families for, seemingly, generations. By the way, if you want to try the real deal, check out Doe’s Eat Place in Greenville, Mississippi – so, yeah it’s like slightly outside Arkansas, but so, worth the quick drive!

To be honest, Doe’s, originally like this unassuming grocery store, has grown, so, into an absolute icon. More or less, they’re especially famed for their tamales and, not only that, but their huge steaks! Essentially, imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, piping hot tamale, kind of like its savory spices exploding on your taste buds, while you absorb the history hanging thick in the air. At the end of the day, that is some serious food heaven! Just a little side note, some Arkansas spots put their spin on Delta tamales, that, too it’s almost offering unique regional variations that are worth hunting down throughout the state.

2. Arkansas BBQ: Smoked to Perfection

Well, alright, BBQ is, naturally, almost a religion down South, right? So, each state, each region, and each family tends to have their secret recipes and special techniques. Of course, when you get to Arkansas, you’ll find, seemingly, no shortage of places smoking tender ribs, pulled pork, and brisket to absolute perfection. Honestly, you need to get this into your tummy. Seriously, what makes Arkansas BBQ stand out? I mean, I’m glad you asked. Now, in that case, you should expect a good mix of influences; so, yeah there’s Memphis style (think, dry rub ribs) and, not only that, but Texas style (that is beefy brisket) mingling with Arkansas’s unique touch. You know, it can range from pecan-smoked meats to vinegar-based sauces; in some respects, it’s a BBQ adventure!

To be honest, you ought to try McClard’s Bar-B-Q in Hot Springs, kind of like this long-time establishment known for their incredible sauce and “spread” (a chopped beef sandwich) that can not be beat! Alright, for a more modern take, literally, try Whole Hog Cafe, which boasts several locations and award-winning BBQ with a range of regional styles. At the end of the day, get this — do not just stick to one joint; try several to discover what the best Arkansas BBQ tastes like for yourself. Well, you will definitely be very happy that you went this route! Okay, what will you choose, pulled pork or brisket?

3. Fried Catfish: A Southern Staple

Okay, let’s talk about comfort food, okay? Just a little reminder — fried catfish just may be like, the king, or, could be, queen, right? You know, seriously rooted in the South, and like your absolute staple across Arkansas. Seriously, think flaky, juicy catfish fillets coated in seasoned cornmeal, then they will be dropped into hot oil until like they turn that perfect golden brown color and are extremely crispy. Literally, the end result, seriously, is this bite of heaven, usually, best enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a side of hushpuppies. So, you want some now, correct?

As a matter of fact, if you want to try some amazing catfish, like your locals frequently tout places along the Arkansas River as, actually, spots with some exceptional options. To be honest, places, too it’s almost like the legendary Catfish Hole near Fayetteville and also Fish House Inn usually serve this southern staple with a smile, like your huge portions, and with a bit of that home-style hospitality. Of course, remember, to, in a way, see if there is a place offering all-you-can-eat catfish, especially if, seriously, you are up for it! Anyway, for real, it is one true Arkansas culinary experiences! This meal will not let you down. Plus, fried catfish is so inexpensive.

4. Chocolate Gravy and Biscuits: A Sweet Start

At the end of the day, get ready to question, probably, every, nearly, preconceived notion you have about gravy, because, in this case, we’re going sweet. Clearly, Chocolate gravy? Really? Yes, this just a little like unusual breakfast dish is like this, in some respects, hidden gem, seriously, in the Ozark Mountain region of Arkansas. In other words, this luscious, chocolatey gravy, usually, made with cocoa, flour, sugar, and milk, then gets slathered all over like your light, fluffy buttermilk biscuits. Well, I mean, think about it… it tastes fabulous! Usually, chocolate and carbs can cure the common mood.

Well, if you go to the Ozarks, you’ll find like this dish at like your quaint cafes and diners. Usually, the flavors really are pretty unique — and rich — they’re like almost somewhere, right, between like this dessert and like this savory breakfast, with an extra dose of that Southern comfort. Just a little, I suggest trying it for the complete experience; really, it is almost like you’ll leave thinking “Wow! That’s almost amazing!”

5. Craft Beer: Brewing Up a Storm

In other words, after the grub, so, naturally you will be parched. Anyway, as a matter of fact, Arkansas’s craft beer scenario is like exploding. In other words, I can’t even stress how popular. Well, with breweries springing up all over the state, like your brewers there usually pride themselves in brewing, basically, your inventive, locally sourced beers. Also, like you will easily discover that they usually brew something that you may certainly like, be it a hoppy IPA to some, right, robust stout or, probably, even your crisp pale ale.

Well, it is almost that like some key breweries I can suggest in the Natural State include, seriously, Lost Forty Brewing in Little Rock, just a little famed for their solid core beers and comfortable taproom scene, so, to speak. Meanwhile, you want to also check out Core Brewing & Distilling Company, that is literally like your favorite across the state, they will provide several tasty options and even like your few distilled spirits. Obviously, what will you pair with it? Maybe the BBQ or Tamales from before! Now, go take an actual roadtrip! To be honest, supporting the beer industry there is, certainly, pretty cool.