22 Unique Restaurants in Arkansas: Train-Delivered Burgers + German Cellars

281

Arkansas might surprise you with its eclectic dining scene, where unique settings meet unforgettable flavors. Known for its Southern comfort food, farm-fresh ingredients, and quirky dining spots, this state offers more than just great meals—it delivers experiences.

Picture sinking your teeth into a burger delivered by a toy train at Feltner’s Whatta-Burger or enjoying authentic schnitzel in the underground ambiance of Wiederkehr Wine Cellars. Craving a twist? Try soul food with a gourmet spin at The Root Café in Little Rock or indulge in fried catfish while overlooking the Arkansas River at Cajun’s Wharf.

From cozy small-town gems to one-of-a-kind themed eateries, Arkansas serves up a taste of its culture and creativity with every bite. In this guide, we’re diving into 22 must-visit spots that make dining in the Natural State unforgettable!

👉 Pro Tip: The Wine Making Fun: Art or Chemistry tour near Little Rock is a great pick for date night or hanging with friends! You’ll mix, sip, and craft your own custom blend to take home. No experience? No worries—it’s all about having fun, experimenting, and enjoying the process. A chill way to discover your inner winemaker!

Unusual places to eat in AR

Ready to discover what Arkansas has on its menu? We’ve got everything from cozy wine cellars to unique train-themed eateries. Join me as we explore the quirkiest places to eat in Arkansas.

Hungry for German dishes in a historic cellar? How about dining in a restored church or enjoying a meal with a view of the Ozarks? Arkansas’s dining scene is as varied as it is surprising. Let’s dive into Arkansas’s most unique dining experiences.

1. Steinhaus Keller

• 📍 Location: Hot Springs
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: German / Bavarian
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Bavarian Rathskeller (cellar restaurant) atmosphere, extensive German beer selection, traditional German dishes.
• 🎯 Perfect For: German food and beer aficionados, cellar dining, and a taste of Bavaria in Arkansas.

Prost! Descend into a cozy Bavarian wonderland at Steinhaus Keller in Hot Springs! This authentic Rathskeller (cellar restaurant) will transport you straight to Germany with its warm, rustic ambiance, traditional decor, and the lively sounds of oompah music (sometimes!). The air is rich with the aroma of sauerkraut and sizzling bratwurst. 

You absolutely have to try their incredible wiener schnitzel, pounded thin and fried to golden perfection, or a hearty platter of assorted German sausages. And don’t forget to pair it with a giant stein of their imported German beer!

• Read Next: 12 Scenic Places in Arkansas That Are Perfect for Settling Down

2. The Hive

This is the type of spot you tell all your friends about after one meal. The Hive, housed in Bentonville’s ultra-cool 21c Museum Hotel, feels like a gallery-meets-bistro hybrid. Honeycomb murals crawl across the walls, and the lighting is on point for date nights or stylish brunches. Chef Matthew McClure’s farm-fresh Southern menu changes often, but the duck fried rice and Arkansas heirloom tomato salad are legends. Make time to wander the hotel’s free contemporary art museum right outside the dining room – it’s half the fun. Pro tip: breakfast here is criminally underrated. I was totally smitten by the sweet tea-brined chicken at lunch, and then had a flat-out revelation with their bourbon pecan pie.

• Explore more Arkansas attractions: Official Arkansas Tourism Site

3. The Root Cafe

• 📍 Location: Little Rock (SoMa District)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Vegetarian / Vegan / Farm-to-Table Cafe
• 🔥 Standout Features: Local and seasonal vegetarian/vegan dishes, community-oriented atmosphere.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Vegetarians and vegans, supporters of local farms, and casual and healthy lunches/brunches.

Get grounded with delicious, wholesome food at The Root Cafe in SoMa. This beloved Little Rock spot is a haven for vegetarian and vegan fare, championing local farmers and seasonal ingredients with a passion you can taste. It’s comfort food with a conscience.

You should definitely try their famous banh mi sandwich (available with tofu or shiitake mushrooms). Their hearty vegetarian chili or creative daily specials featuring fresh produce are also fantastic. The atmosphere is laid-back, artsy, and deeply connected to the community.

• Read next: 12 Epic and Beautiful Spots to See in Arkansas

4. Mockingbird Kitchen

Fayetteville’s Mockingbird Kitchen is what happens when comfort food goes to finishing school. This laid-back spot does Southern with just enough chef-y flair to keep things exciting – think deviled eggs with pickled okra or a drool-worthy duck and Gouda sandwich. The patio has serious “neighbors catching up over mimosas” vibes, and the dining room is quirky but cozy. Don’t sleep on their bread pudding for dessert. It’s practically a rite of passage. Dickson Street is a quick walk away if you want to keep the night rolling – or just soak up some of that Razorback energy. I honestly can’t get enough of their winning balance between fun and foodie-worthy.

5. Cliff House Inn

• 📍 Location: Jasper (Arkansas Grand Canyon)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $25 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Southern Comfort Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Panoramic views of the “Arkansas Grand Canyon” (Ozark Mountains), historic inn setting, “Company’s Comin'” pie.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Scenic drives, home-style Southern cooking, and pie fanatics.

Dine on top of the world (or at least on top of the Arkansas Ozarks!) at the Cliff House Inn near Jasper. This historic inn boasts what is arguably one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the state, overlooking the majestic “Arkansas Grand Canyon.” 

The menu is packed with down-home Southern comfort food. You gotta try their classic fried chicken or a hearty catfish platter. But whatever you do, save room for a slice of their legendary “Company’s Comin'” pie – a sweet, layered concoction that lives up to its name. The view alone is worth the trip, but the pie will seal the deal!

• Read More: 12 Stunning Places in the Ozarks You Have to See to Believe
• You May Also Want To Read: 12 Epic and Beautiful Spots to See in Arkansas

6. The Rail Yard LR

If you crave variety, The Rail Yard in Little Rock is a food truck park with indoor/outdoor seating and a full bar rubbing elbows with local street food heroes. There’s always something new popping up, but locals are obsessed with Count Porkula’s barbecue and artisan pizza from local trucks. The vibe is industrial-chic meets patio party – string lights, live music, even sand volleyball. Super dog-friendly. It’s right around the corner from Heifer International Urban Farm and SOMA’s murals, so you can easily make an afternoon of it. Believe me, you won’t find a better match for Arkansas craft beer and people-watching on a sunny day.

7. All Aboard Restaurant & Grill

• 📍 Location: Little Rock
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Burgers / Kid-Friendly
• 🔥 Standout Features: Model trains, family-friendly, classic American diner fare.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Families (especially train lovers!), playful meals, and satisfying your inner child.

All aboard for a dining experience that’s right on track for fun at All Aboard Restaurant & Grill in Little Rock! This place is an absolute delight for kids (and anyone who loves trains), as your food – from juicy burgers to crispy chicken tenders – is delivered to your table by a fleet of model trains chugging along a network of tracks. 

The excitement on the kids’ faces as their meal pulls into the “station” is priceless. It’s a super fun, playful, and utterly charming spot for a casual family meal.

• Cross the border for more unusual dining: 17 Unique Restaurants in Mississippi

8. ZAZA | Little Rock

ZAZA takes the “build your own pizza” thing to beautiful extremes. Rows of glistening veggies, fresh basil, house-made dough, local meats and cheeses – there’s a reason this Heights favorite is a lunch rush legend. My can’t-miss move: get the Truffled Mushroom pizza or a killer kale Caesar. The vibe is light and breezy, with colorful tilework and a wall of windows looking out to Heights boutiques (perfect for people-watching). Bonus – grab a local draft, or go for their dreamy gelato for dessert. I was genuinely shocked at how creative you can get here for the price. Walk off the carbs with a stroll through nearby Kavanaugh shops.

9. Wiederkehr Wine Cellar & Weinkeller Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Wiederkehr Village (Altus)
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Swiss / German / European
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic winery (est. 1880), old wine cellar, traditional Swiss and German cuisine, award-winning Arkansas wines.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Wine lovers exploring the Arkansas Wine Trail, historic cellar dining, and hearty European comfort food.

Step into a piece of Arkansas winemaking history at Wiederkehr Wine Cellar & Weinkeller Restaurant in Wiederkehr Village! This historic winery, dating back to 1880, offers a unique dining experience in its beautiful, candlelit old wine cellar, the Weinkeller. The air has the cool, earthy scent of an old cellar mixed with the aroma of hearty European cooking. 

Indulge in traditional Swiss and German specialties like cheese fondue, savory sauerbraten, or classic wiener schnitzel, all paired perfectly with their award-winning Arkansas wines. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric and delicious journey into the past.

• Discover more outdoor adventures in Arkansas: Arkansas State Parks

10. Meiji Japanese Cuisine

You know a sushi place is legit when people ask for omakase off-menu. Meiji’s minimalist dining room in Fayetteville is all soft lighting, blond wood, and a trickling water feature by the door. Their sushi chef nails classics, but I always return for anything with house-cured salmon, and the crazy-popular “Baja” roll stuffed with crab, avocado, mango and a spicy punch. The sake menu is impressive, and they make even weeknight dinners feel special. If you’re headed to a Razorback game, this is the spot to fuel up first. I’m not kidding when I say the fresh fish quality rivals places much bigger cities brag about.

11. Toad Suck Bucks

• 📍 Location: Conway (Toad Suck)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Burgers / Eclectic Bar Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Riverside general store/diner feel, creative burgers.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Casual stops and experiencing local Arkansas folklore.

Don’t let the name fool you (or maybe let it intrigue you!); Toad Suck Bucks in the community of Toad Suck (near Conway) is a legendary local spot with a ton of quirky charm and surprisingly delicious food. It’s got a laid-back, riverside general store and diner vibe. 

They’re known for their incredibly creative and tasty burgers – think unexpected toppings and perfectly cooked patties. Their fried pickles are also a must-try. It’s a fun, unpretentious place to grab a bite and soak in some genuine Arkansas character. You gotta love a place with a story!

12. Big Orange | West Little Rock

Burger lovers, this is your mecca. Big Orange in West Little Rock flips classic Americana with creative, funky twists – and the energy is electric. Think thick-cut fries with aioli flights, and burgers topped with everything from blue cheese to Thai peanut butter (wild, but shockingly delicious). The bright orange accents and mid-century booths set the scene for both casual hangs and high-energy group meals. Their shakes (try the Strawberry Birthday Cake) double as Instagram bait. Handy tip: the line can get long, especially on weekends, but service is turbo-fast and worth it. After one decadent lunch, I ended up craving their white truffle and pecorino fries for weeks.

• You may also like: Best Places to Call Home in Arkansas

13. Kontiki African Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Little Rock
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: West African / Nigerian
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Nigerian and West African cuisine, flavorful dishes..
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous eaters and home-style West African cooking.

Get ready for a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to West Africa at Kontiki African Restaurant in Little Rock! This gem serves up authentic Nigerian and broader West African cuisine that’s bursting with vibrant spices and incredible depth. The air is fragrant with ginger, scotch bonnets, and simmering stews. 

You absolutely have to try their rich and savory jollof rice, the tender goat meat pepper soup, or their incredible egusi soup served with fufu. It’s a warm, welcoming spot that offers a delicious and heartfelt introduction to the diverse cuisines of West Africa.

• For more unique dining beyond Arkansas: Mississippi’s Coolest & Most Unique Restaurants

14. The Farmer’s Table Cafe

This is what Fayetteville mornings are all about. The Farmer’s Table Cafe is an adorable house turned all-day breakfast gem, swaddled in string lights with picnic tables outside. Locals rave about their “Ozarkansas” hash and sky-high pancakes slathered with house-made preserves. Everything is farm-to-table, including the preserves and jams – you’ll absolutely taste the difference. The vibe is sunlight, wildflowers, and acoustic indie playlists, so show up early on weekends (or expect a genial wait). Gorgeous Wilson Park is down the block for a post-brunch wander. I still daydream about the sweet potato hash and maple lattes here.

15. The Preacher’s Son

• 📍 Location: Bentonville
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $70+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Gluten-Free Focus / Upscale
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic Gothic Revival church, gluten-free kitchen, plated dishes.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Gluten-free diners seeking an upscale experience, architecture lovers, and special occasions.

Prepare for a dining experience that’s truly divine at The Preacher’s Son in Bentonville! Housed in a breathtakingly converted historic Gothic Revival church, this restaurant is an absolute architectural stunner, with soaring ceilings and beautiful stained glass. And here’s the unique part: the entire kitchen is 100% gluten-free, offering sophisticated and artfully plated modern American cuisine. 

Imagine savoring a delicious pan-seared fish or a perfectly cooked duck breast, all without a speck of gluten. They also have a cool basement speakeasy called “Undercroft.” It’s an elegant, memorable, and surprisingly inclusive fine dining experience.

• Learn more about Northwest Arkansas: Visit Northwest Arkansas

16. Crepes Paulette

French street food with a Northwest Arkansas twist – Crepes Paulette started as a food truck, but their cozy brick ‘n’ wood café downtown Bentonville is pure pastry bliss. Sweet or savory, the menu is brimming with classics (lemon-sugar, Nutella-banana) plus delights like bacon, brie, and spinach or curry chicken crepes. The casual, cheery vibe makes this a post-museum or late breakfast must. Sit by the window and you’ll spot Crystal Bridges’ art crowd heading downtown. Their gluten-free buckwheat batter is top notch, and honestly, the “La Complete” (ham, cheese, egg) is a game-changer for savory breakfast. I still get hunger pangs just thinking about it.

17. The Purple Cow Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Little Rock (Multiple locations)
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Diner / Soda Fountain
• 🔥 Standout Features: Retro 50s diner with a purple cow theme, classic burgers and shakes (especially purple milkshakes!), family-friendly.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Nostalgic family meals, classic diners, and indulging your inner child.

Get ready for some udderly delicious fun at The Purple Cow Restaurant! With locations in Little Rock, this spot is a vibrant, retro 50s-style diner with a playful purple cow theme running throughout. It’s a blast from the past, perfect for families. 

You absolutely have to try one of their classic juicy burgers, crispy fries, and, of course, a signature purple vanilla milkshake! The atmosphere is always lively and cheerful. It’s a fantastic place for a casual, satisfying meal that will leave everyone smiling.

18. Tacos Godoy

This is where taco heads in Northwest Arkansas come for the good stuff. Tacos Godoy is a tiny, neon-lit taqueria in Little Rock, turning out Mexico City-style tacos with real-deal al pastor spinning in the window. Their “Taco del Pastor” should be your starting point, but ask for the quesabirria if you’re feeling indulgent – the beef is meltingly tender, dunked in bright consommé. The interior is bustling, and music usually bumps from behind the counter. It’s takeout-friendly, but I love sitting inside and soaking up the energy on taco Tuesday. No joke, it’s the most authentic street taco experience this far north I’ve found.

19. The Grill at Whispering Woods

• 📍 Location: Heber Springs (Whispering Woods Cabins)
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Steak & Seafood / Rustic Fine Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Romantic wooded setting, rustic lodge ambiance, high-quality steaks, seafood, and pasta.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic dinners, special celebrations in a natural setting, and fine dining.

Escape to a secluded culinary haven at The Grill at Whispering Woods in Heber Springs. Tucked away in a beautiful wooded setting, this restaurant offers an upscale rustic lodge ambiance that’s both elegant and cozy, perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration.

They specialize in high-quality steaks, fresh seafood, and delicious pasta dishes. 
Imagine savoring a perfectly grilled filet mignon while surrounded by the tranquility of the woods. It’s a true hidden gem for a refined and memorable dining experience!

• Read Next: 12 Uniquely Amazing Treehouses in Arkansas You Can Rent Right Now

20. The Squatch

If you’re driving deep through the Ozarks, The Squatch in Jasper hits every adventurous travel note – quirky decor, local craft beer, hearty mountain fare, and a backyard with a Bigfoot statue for selfies. The menu is wild: elk sliders, loaded gravy fries, killer fried green tomatoes, and rotating house-smoked specials. The setting is a cross between mountain lodge and roadhouse cool, complete with folk art, strings of Christmas lights, and a playlist that could run from Johnny Cash to Zeppelin. Buffalo River National Park is five minutes away, making this a killer stop for hikers and roadtrippers. Their giant, oozy pimento cheeseburger floored me.

21. Slader’s Alaskan Dumpling Co.

• 📍 Location: Fayetteville
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $15 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Russian Pelmeni / Dumplings
• 🔥 Standout Features: Alaskan-style pelmeni (Russian dumplings), simple menu.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Dumpling fanatics, quick meals, and experiencing a taste of Alaska (via Russia!) in Arkansas.

Get ready for a dumpling revelation at Slader’s Alaskan Dumpling Co. in Fayetteville! This unique spot specializes in one thing and does it exceptionally well: pelmeni, traditional Russian meat dumplings often found in Alaska. These little pockets of deliciousness, typically filled with beef or potato, are served boiled with butter, vinegar, and sour cream. 

The beef pelmeni are incredibly savory and comforting. It’s a simple, focused menu that delivers big on flavor. For a quick, affordable, and utterly unique comfort food experience, Slader’s is a must-try.

• Continue your Southern food journey across state lines: 17 Unique Restaurants in Mississippi

22. Pea Farm Bistro

• 📍 Location: Cabot
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Southern / Farm-to-Table / Eclectic
• 🔥 Standout Features: Fresh, local ingredients (from their own farm), creative Southern-inspired dishes.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Lunch/brunches and elevated Southern cooking.

Discover a little slice of Southern charm and farm-fresh goodness at Pea Farm Bistro in Cabot! This cool spot is all about celebrating local ingredients, often sourced from their own nearby farm, in creative and delicious Southern-inspired dishes. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, like you’re dining in a friend’s stylish country kitchen. 

You have to try their seasonal salads, fresh sandwiches on homemade bread, or whatever amazing brunch special they’re offering. It’s a place that truly tastes like home, but better!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the quirkiest restaurants in Arkansas

Are you searching for more information about where to eat in Arkansas? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Arkansas’s most unique restaurants.

What food is Arkansas famous for?

Arkansas is famous for its incredible comfort food, especially its barbecue and fried catfish. You’ll find mouth-watering barbecue joints and catfish houses scattered throughout the state.

What is the state food of Arkansas?

The state food of Arkansas is actually rice! Arkansas is one of the leading rice producers in the country, so it’s no surprise that this grain has earned the honor of state food. You’ll find it served up in all sorts of delicious ways across the state.

What is one cool fact about Arkansas?

One cool fact about Arkansas is that it’s home to the only diamond mine in the world where the public can search for diamonds and keep what they find. The Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro is a one-of-a-kind adventure that has made many visitors happily richer during their stay in Arkansas!

What is the official state drink of Arkansas?

The official state drink of Arkansas is milk. This choice highlights the state’s rich agricultural heritage and the importance of dairy farming to the local economy. Plus, it’s a nod to the wholesome, down-to-earth character of Arkansas and its people.