Feb. 12, 2026
Food series highlights favorite local restaurants around state
CONWAY, Ark. (Arkansas TV) — The all-new Arkansas TV-produced “Taste Buds” will premiere on Arkansas TV in March. “Taste Buds,” hosted by actor/comedian Brett Ihler, highlights favorite local restaurants around the state and the friendly faces behind them. Early episodes see Ihler take viewers on a journey to Dixie Pig in Blytheville, Mud Street Cafe in Eureka Springs and Star of India in Little Rock.
“'Taste Buds’ is a celebration of the people, places and flavors that make Arkansas special,” Arkansas TV Executive Director and CEO Carlton Wing said. “This series takes viewers beyond the menu as we sit down with restaurant owners and locals to find out what gives these restaurants their heart and soul. By spotlighting favorite eateries and the stories behind them, ‘Taste Buds’ invites audiences to experience The Natural State through the food we love and the people who make it.”
Our Emmy Award-winning production crew traveled across the state, telling stories of Arkansas’s favorite restaurants. Each episode takes a half-hour journey in search of the most fantastic flavors and friendliest faces across Arkansas. “Taste Buds” will highlight Arkansans’ favorite places to eat – all while catching up with local community members to get the inside scoop on what makes these dishes favorites in Arkansas.
About Arkansas TV
Arkansas TV, Arkansas’s only statewide public television network, informs and inspires learners of all ages through local storytelling, educational resources and meaningful community partnerships. Local programs can be livestreamed at arkansastv.gov/live and accessed on-demand at youtube.com/@arkansastv, and the distinct channels Arkansas TV and AIRS on SAP. Arkansas TV depends on the generosity of Arkansans and the State of Arkansas to continue offering locally produced, Arkansas-focused programming. Additional information is available at arkansastv.gov. Arkansas TV is broadcast on KETS (Little Rock), KEMV (Mountain View), KETG (Arkadelphia), KAFT (Fayetteville), KTEJ (Jonesboro), KETZ (El Dorado), KETS (Russellville), KETS (Forrest City), KETS (Yancy) and KETS (Gaither).
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