Arkansas has a deep-rooted, flavor-rich history. In the first episode of “Taste Buds,” host, actor and comedian Brett Ihler takes viewers on a culinary road trip across The Natural State, serving up everything from homemade breakfast favorites in Eureka Springs to authentic North Indian cuisine in Little Rock and century-old barbecue traditions in Blytheville.
Mud Street Cafe, Eureka Springs
Must try: The Mexican omelet paired with an Alpine White Mocha.
Tucked beneath the bustling streets of downtown Eureka Springs, Mud Street Cafe has been welcoming guests for more than 30 years. Housed in a historic building dating to 1888, the restaurant has grown from a small cafe and art space into one of the city's most beloved gathering places. Owner Jennifer Cross has been part of the cafe's story for two decades, originally joining the business for what she thought would be a short stint before finding herself falling in love with the work, the people and the community.
Mud Street Cafe's made-from-scratch menu is a big part of its appeal, but owner Jennifer Cross says its welcoming atmosphere keeps people coming back. The cafe serves everything from hearty omelets and oversized pancakes to the popular Mexican omelet loaded with peppers, onions, beans, cheese and homemade salsa.
Between its historic limestone walls, local artwork, and friendly staff, the cafe has created a welcoming space that feels more like a home than a restaurant. For first-time visitors, she recommends pairing a signature breakfast dish with an Alpine White Mocha for the full Mud Street experience.
Star of India, Little Rock
Must try: The chicken tikka masala with freshly baked garlic naan.
In the heart of Arkansas, Star of India offers North Indian tradition paired with a warm welcome. For more than three decades, owner Sami Lal has served the same carefully crafted recipes while building a reputation for treating every guest like family.
Signature favorites like chicken tikka masala are made with recipes unchanged since the restaurant opened, while fresh naan is baked in a traditional clay oven and served alongside a range of flavorful curries and house specialties. Guests can customize spice levels and choose from dozens of naan varieties; all prepared with the same attention to detail that has made the restaurant a local favorite. Whether guests prefer mild flavors or extra spice, Star of India serves up a meal that proves that great food and genuine hospitality never go out of style.
The Dixie Pig BBQ, Blytheville
Must try: The Dixie Pig BBQ sandwich topped with crunchy vinegar slaw and onion rings.
The Dixie Pig has spent more than a century perfecting what works, serving slow-cooked barbecue since 1923 and making it one of Arkansas's longest-running food traditions.
That commitment to tradition starts at the pit. Current owner Bob Halsell carries a family legacy dating back to his grandfather, who founded the business more than 100 years ago. The restaurant's current pit has been in use since 1950, where they cook pork shoulders and ribs low and slow over live charcoal. The famous Dixie Pig sandwich keeps things simple: tender pulled pork, crunchy vinegar slaw, and the restaurant's signature vinegar-based sauce on a toasted bun. According to the family, the recipe hasn't changed in generations, and they have no plans to change it now.
While the barbecue may draw visitors through the door, history and hospitality keep them coming back. From homemade onion rings to stories shared around the dining room, The Dixie Pig reflects Blytheville's resilient, welcoming and proud spirit. After more than a century of serving Arkansas, it reminds us that sometimes the best recipes are the ones worth preserving.
TUNE IN
Watch the premiere episode of “Taste Buds” Thursday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. live on broadcast or on our YouTube channel.
CATCH THE PREMIERE OF EPISODE 2
Episode 2 of "Taste Buds" Thursday, Nov. 12, at 7 p.m. where Ihler stops at Taylor’s Steakhouse in Dumas, Oark General Store in Oark and Pops Place in Texarkana.