According to the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles and Census data, most new residents moving to Arkansas in 2023 came from Texas. What attracts Texans to the Natural State?
Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Arkansas offers vast national forests, sparkling lakes, and the stunning Ozark Mountains, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping year-round.
Many who chose to relocate to Arkansas also highlighted its low cost of living—consistently ranked second or third lowest in the U.S.—and abundant affordable housing options, with a rental vacancy rate of 8.9%.
But while the cost of living is much lower than in Texas, it’s not the only thing drawing Lone Stars to Arkansas. The state also boasts lively entertainment options and an impressive food scene.
But how does Arkansas’s dining culture compare to Texas’s renowned flavors? Let’s explore.
Comparing the Two States’ Food Cultures
Texas: The Lone Star State is synonymous with big, bold flavors like smoky barbecue and spicy Tex-Mex. Urban centers like Austin and Houston offer incredible culinary diversity, including global cuisines and high-end dining.
Arkansas: The Natural State celebrates tradition by emphasizing Southern comfort food and fresh, local ingredients. Surrounded by abundant forests, fertile farmland, and pristine waterways, the state offers a pure and unpretentious culinary experience that lets the natural flavors shine.
Dining here feels like stepping into someone’s kitchen—homey, intimate, and welcoming. The cities and towns are smaller, so restaurants provide an affordable and intimate dining experience.
Famous Arkansas Dishes
Fried Catfish: Often served with hush puppies, coleslaw, and tartar sauce. The state’s many lakes and rivers make it a prime location for fresh fish.
Biscuits and Chocolate Gravy: This unique dish is a breakfast favorite in Arkansas.
Possum Pie: It’s a layered pie featuring cream cheese, chocolate pudding, whipped cream, and sometimes pecans, showcasing the state’s love for rich, sweet treats.
Fried Pickles: Fried pickles are said to have originated in Arkansas and are a popular snack or appetizer. They’re typically battered, deep-fried, and served with ranch dressing.
Smoked Meats and Barbecue: Arkansas has a distinct barbecue style combining Texas and Memphis traditions. Pork ribs and pulled pork are especially popular, often accompanied by a tangy, vinegar-based sauce.
Chicken and Dumplings: Tender chicken cooked with fluffy dumplings in a rich, savory broth.
Rice Dishes: As one of the leading rice producers in the U.S., Arkansas incorporates rice into many dishes, from casseroles to gumbo. Rice with gravy is a simple but iconic side dish in the state.
PurpleHull Peas: A type of Southern field pea, PurpleHull peas are a beloved ingredient in Arkansas, often cooked with bacon or ham for added flavor.
Wild Game Dishes: With its abundant forests, Arkansas is known for wild game dishes, including venison (deer), duck, and quail, often prepared in traditional Southern styles.
Fried Green Tomatoes: This Southern classic is a hit in Arkansas, where green tomatoes are sliced, battered, and fried to crispy perfection.
Exploring Arkansas’s Culinary Scene: Best Restaurants
Arkansas is rapidly carving out its own culinary niche. Here are some of the state’s top-rated restaurants, according to both diners and critics:
Traditional dishes:
Jones Bar-B-Q Diner (Marianna): Established in the 1910s, this historic spot is renowned for its classic barbecue, particularly its chopped pork sandwiches.
Monte Ne Inn Chicken (Rogers): Famous for its family-style fried chicken dinners, this restaurant offers a homestyle food experience that takes patrons back in time.
Myrtie Mae’s (Eureka Springs): Located inside the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks, this eatery is known for its Southern comfort food, including fried chicken and homemade pies.
Ozark Café (Jasper): Operating since 1909, it offers a menu filled with traditional Southern dishes, making it a staple in the community.
Flying Fish: famous for its fresh, Southern-style seafood and quirky, fishing-themed decor.
Modern Dishes
The Hive (Bentonville): Located within the 21c Museum Hotel, The Hive offers refined country cuisine that elevates traditional Southern dishes with contemporary techniques.
The Preacher’s Son (Bentonville): Housed in a restored historic church, this restaurant features modern American cuisine focusing on locally sourced ingredients.
Conifer (Bentonville): Known for its innovative dishes and commitment to sustainability, Conifer offers a modern dining experience highlighting the Ozarks’ flavors.
The Grumpy Rabbit (Lonoke): Recognized as the best overall restaurant in Arkansas in 2023, it offers a contemporary menu that blends Southern traditions with modern culinary trends.
A New Culinary Adventure for Texans
Is Arkansas aiming to dethrone Texas in the culinary world? Probably not—but it doesn’t need to. The Natual State serves up something entirely its own: a culinary culture rooted in tradition, fresh and pure ingredients, bursting with local flavor and wrapped in warm Southern hospitality. For Texans making the move, adjusting from brisket and breakfast tacos to biscuits and chocolate gravy might seem like a leap, but it’s a delicious one.
