Van Buren, Arkansas
Food is an essential part of every culture, and there's no way you can leave Van Buren, Arkansas without trying some of its local cuisines. This city actually has a lot to offer when it comes to different places you can eat, from traditional American to Mexican, Italian, Vietnamese, and lots more. Here are some of the top restaurants in Van Buren, Arkansas:
1. Downstream Casino Resort: This is located at 6111 Downstream Blvd, Quapaw, AR, and offers Mexican cuisine among others.
2. Golden Corral Restaurant: Located at 1801 S 72nd St, Fort Smith, AR, this is a top buffet restaurant in Van Buren.
3. Rib Crib BBQ & Grill: This is one of the top barbecue joints in the city. Rib Crib offer a full slab of slow-smoked spare ribs in different flavors such as sweet and spicy Korean BBQ and the classic hickory. It is located at 2401 S 56th St, Fort Smith, AR.
4. Culver’s: Located at 1301 Fayetteville Rd, Van Buren, AR, this is a popular fast food restaurant in the city. Culver’s is known for its Butterburger, a beef patty with butter on top, as well as its cheese curds that are also breaded and fried.
5. El Chico Café: For authentic Mexican cuisine, El Chico Café is definitely a place you want to visit. It is located at 5901 S 75th St, Fort Smith, AR.
Tourists usually search for local dishes and specialties such as smoked ribs, chicken, brisket, catfish, shrimp and crawfish as well as southern favorites such as fried chicken, meatloaf, burgers, steak, collard greens and corn bread. In terms of online food review resources, you can check out popular sites such as YELP or TripAdvisor to see what other people are saying about the restaurants you're interested in. Consider the rating, the comments, as well as the number of reviews when making your decision.
Tips for locals:
* Insider tip for locals is that most restaurants have lunch specials on weekdays. Many locals (in the know) order from one restaurant and then go next door for drinks or dessert.
* For cheaper eats, avoid holidays and weekends. Best deals are always on weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday. Avoid Valentine's Day, Mother's Day and New Year's Eve.
* If you don't have time for dinner, make sure to eat lunch! Many restaurants have fantastic lunch specials. If you are a burger fan, lunch burgers are usually half the price of dinner burgers!
Tips for visitors:
* Eat where the locals go. Many spots are tourist traps, overpriced, serve frozen, processed food and give the 'tourist' portion sizes. Avoid eating in areas surrounded by tourist attractions. If the menu has pictures, run!
* Do your homework before you arrive in Van Buren, or check with your hotel concierge for recommendations. Many hidden gems are hidden from visitors!
* Check out online food review sites like KwickMENU. They not only provide reviews but show menus and prices, allowing you to compare local restaurants like for like!
* Late night munchies? Keep your eyes peeled for 'late night' or 'after hours' signs. They can be tucked away anywhere. Most keep things simple, wings, shots, great beers and bar food.
In conclusion, be ready to have a mouth-watering experience in Van Buren, Arkansas, and don't hesitate to visit the places listed above!