1. The Essence of Farm-to-Table in Bentonville
The farm-to-table movement is more than just a trend in Bentonville; it’s a way of life. Restaurants throughout the city are dedicated to sourcing their ingredients from local farmers, ranchers, and artisans, ensuring that each dish reflects the region’s natural bounty.
This commitment to freshness and sustainability not only supports the local economy but also results in dishes that are rich in flavor and nutrition.
2. Must-visit Farm-to-Table Restaurants
a. The Hive: A True Taste of Arkansas
Located in the stylish 21c Museum Hotel, The Hive is one of Bentonville’s most celebrated farm-to-table restaurants.
Under the direction of James Beard Award-nominated chef Matthew McClure, The Hive offers a menu that highlights the flavors of Arkansas using locally sourced ingredients.
Dishes like the Arkansas catfish with smoked tomato and okra, or the Ozark pasture-raised chicken, showcase the chef’s commitment to sustainable sourcing and Southern culinary traditions.
The Hive’s ambiance, featuring contemporary art from the hotel’s collection, adds to the unique dining experience.
b. Tusk & Trotter: Rustic Elegance with Local Flair
Tusk & Trotter is a Bentonville staple that perfectly blends rustic charm with modern elegance. This gastropub is known for its inventive menu that emphasizes locally sourced meats, vegetables, and cheeses.
The Bentonville hot chicken smoked Berkshire pork chop, and the house-made charcuterie are just a few of the standout dishes that highlight the restaurant’s farm-to-table philosophy.
Tusk & Trotter also offers an impressive selection of local craft beers and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
c. Eleven at Crystal Bridges: Art and Agriculture Collide
For a dining experience that combines art and local cuisine, Eleven at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a must-visit.
The restaurant’s farm-to-table menu is inspired by the natural beauty and artistic masterpieces housed within the museum. Each dish is crafted with seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms, and the menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest produce available.
Whether you’re enjoying the savory beef tenderloin with local root vegetables or a light salad featuring greens from nearby farms, dining at Eleven is an experience that nourishes both body and soul.
d. Oven & Tap: Wood-Fired Goodness
Oven & Tap is a farm-to-table eatery known for its wood-fired dishes and a strong commitment to local sourcing.
The restaurant’s menu is centered around its wood-fired oven, which produces everything from crispy pizzas to succulent roasted meats.
Local favorites include the wood-fired chicken with Bentonville honey glaze and the seasonal vegetable pizza topped with the freshest produce from nearby farms. Oven & Tap’s laid-back vibe and outdoor seating make it a perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
3. Local Markets and Food Hubs
a. Bentonville Farmers Market: A Community Staple
For those who prefer to cook their farm-to-table meals, the Bentonville Farmers Market is the place to go.
Held weekly on the downtown square, this vibrant market features a wide array of fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and artisanal goods from local farmers and producers.
Whether you’re looking for heirloom tomatoes, pasture-raised eggs, or homemade jams, the Bentonville Farmers Market is a treasure trove of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The market also hosts cooking demonstrations, live music, and other community events, making it a lively gathering place for locals and visitors.
b. The Hub at Ozark Natural Foods: Your Local Pantry
Ozark Natural Foods is a cooperative grocery store in nearby Fayetteville that serves as a hub for locally sourced, organic products.
While it’s a bit of a drive from Bentonville, The Hub at Ozark Natural Foods is worth the trip for those who want to stock up on farm-fresh ingredients.
The store offers a wide selection of local produce, meats, dairy, and pantry items, as well as a deli featuring ready-to-eat meals made with seasonal ingredients. Supporting Ozark Natural Foods means supporting a network of local farmers and producers committed to sustainable agriculture.
4. Food Tours and Farm Experiences
a. Ozark Farm & Food Tour: A Culinary Adventure
For a deeper dive into Bentonville’s farm-to-table scene, consider joining the Ozark Farm & Food Tour. This guided tour takes you to some of the region’s best farms, food producers, and restaurants, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how local ingredients are grown, harvested, and prepared.
Along the way, you’ll meet farmers and chefs who are passionate about sustainable food practices and enjoy tastings of fresh, seasonal dishes.
The tour is a great way to connect with the local food community and gain a greater appreciation for the farm-to-table movement.
b. Peel Mansion & Heritage Gardens: A Taste of History
For a unique farm-to-table experience with a historical twist, visit the Peel Mansion & Heritage Gardens in Bentonville.
This beautifully restored 19th-century mansion is surrounded by heritage gardens that grow heirloom fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
The gardens are open to the public, and visitors can learn about traditional farming methods and the importance of sustainable agriculture.
Throughout the year, the Peel Mansion hosts farm-to-table dinners featuring produce from the gardens, offering a delicious way to experience Bentonville’s agricultural history.
5. Conclusion: Embracing the Farm-to-Table Movement
Bentonville’s farm-to-table restaurants and markets offer more than just delicious meals — they provide a connection to the land, the farmers, and the community that makes this region special.
Whether you’re dining at one of the city’s top farm-to-table eateries, shopping at the farmers market, or exploring local farms,
you’ll find that Bentonville’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced cuisine is evident in every bite. So, the next time you’re in Bentonville, take the opportunity to savor the flavors of this vibrant community and support the local food movement. You won’t be disappointed.