The 9 Best Places for Appetizers in Arkansas!

What’s more appetizing than…appetizers? Before you eat your next main course meal, check out these tasty treats that will stimulate your taste buds. Get ready for stomach growls as you go through our list of some of the best places for appetizers in Arkansas.

Stonehouse at Chaffee Crossing, Fort Smith, AR

Located in Chaffee Crossing at the edge of Fort Smith, this spot serves up some of the best cuts of meat in the River Valley area. Stonehouse may be known for its steaks, but let’s talk about the awesome appetizers…like the crispy hay shrimp (shrimp wrapped in phyllo strings over orange bacon jam & chili oil) or the Ozark dip brandade (smoked trout and potato, pecorino-Romano, & olive oil served with a crispy baguette). 

Rolando’s Restaurante, Multiple locations

Bienvenidos! In the mood for some authentic Nuevo Latino cuisine? Rolando’s is where you’ll find it. Not only are all the entrees fantastic, but this place has some amazing appetizers as well. From the guacamole to the queso flamado, you’ll never be disappointed with the menu choices at Rolando’s.

The Catfish Hole, Alma and Fayetteville, AR

We’ve got one word for you: HUSHPUPPIES! The Catfish Hole is famous for many reasons, but the hushpuppies have to be at the top of the list. You’ll want to exercise some restraint while consuming these glorious little balls of fried goodness…they’re so good you may get too full to eat your meal.

ZAZA Fine Salad & Wood Oven Pizza Co., Conway and Little Rock, AR

When you’re craving soup and salad as an appetizers, check out this Southern Italian joint. The soups here at ZAZA’s, like the chicken & dumplings and the Mulligatawny, are made from scratch and are hearty enough eat as a meal. The fresh salads can be tossed to order and include such favorites as the Petit Jean Ranch and the sesame ahi tuna.

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Tusk & Trotter American Brasserie, Bentonville, AR

How appetizing do crispy pig ear nachos or Arkansas fritters sound?! If you’re not a native of the Natural State, don’t let menu items like this scare you away…the names don’t do them justice. Pig ears aside, Tusk & Trotter also offers an awesome selection of soups, salads, and flatbreads that are the perfect appetizer for any meal.

The Pantry, Little Rock, AR

With three convenient locations in Little Rock, you can’t miss The Pantry Restaurant. This family of restaurants offers authentic Czech and German classics that include some delicious appetizers like Bacon wrapped dates and cheese spaetzle. Locals also love the strawberry & spinach salad, the hummus, and truffled deviled eggs.

Ermilio’s Italian Home Cooking, Eureka Springs, AR

Ermilio’s is located on the historic Upper Loop in Eureka Springs, not far from the famously haunted Crescent Hotel. The Italian-style stuffed mushrooms have long-been a hit at this cozy little restaurant. Other favorites include the Caprese salad, bread rounds, and mussels.

Bordino’s, Fayetteville, AR

For over two decades, this restaurant and wine bar has been a Dickson Street tradition. Bordino’s is well-known for its award-winning wine list, but the appetizers offered here are some of the best in the state. Start your meal off right with a grilled shiitake & artichoke salad, beef tenderloin meatballs, or the popular crab cakes. 

JJ’s Grill & Chill, Conway, Fayetteville, & Fort Smith, AR

Do your mouth and your ears a favor…check out JJ’s. This hoppin’ spot is known for its live music, fun staff, and good food. The appetizers at JJ’s range from fried pickles, jalapeños, and ‘shrooms to the popular Chili Cheeze Fries and Buffalo Chicken Cheeze Balls. 

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