SUMMER FUN GUIDE – JonesboroRightNow.com – Summer is the perfect time to explore the evolving culinary scene across Northeast Arkansas. From elevated farm-to-table menus to vibrant casual patios and regional classics, here is a curated look at some of the best local dining spots to check out this season.
Note: This guide focuses on locally run dining options rather than national chains. If there is a restaurant listed that does not belong on this list, please email news@jonesbororightnow.com. If you know of a restaurant that should be added to this list, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page.
Farm-to-Table and Chef-Driven Concepts
CHEF’S IN SOUTHERN BUFFETT • 105 Burke Ave., Jonesboro • 870-934-8962
Enjoy all-you-can-eat Southern cooking, buffet style. Its menu rotates weekly, so check back to see what the chef has in store.
Buffet hours are Sunday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
THE PARSONAGE • 311 S. Main St., Jonesboro • 870-203-6116
As one of the area’s original pioneers in the local farm-to-table movement, The Parsonage focuses on scratch-made, classically prepared comfort dishes with an elevated, modern twist. It is a staple for those looking to support local growers. They are highly renowned for their weekend brunch options, house-made giant cinnamon rolls, and seasonal Friday night specials.
The Parsonage is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Friday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is closed on Mondays.
Upscale Dining and Special Occasions
ABE’S PLACE • 922 Chancery Lane, Suite 101, Jonesboro • 870-336-8137
An upscale, white-tablecloth fine-dining establishment, Abe’s Place blends a high-end steakhouse experience with distinct Cajun, Creole, and Southern influences. The atmosphere features a polished, jazzy aesthetic, often hosting live music like local jazz acts.
It is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight, and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is closed on Mondays.
AVANZARE ITALIAN RESTAURANT • 1015 Lindwood Drive 3, Paragould • 870-215-0597
Located a short drive up into Greene County, Avanzare is highly regarded as a premier destination for authentic, scratch-made Italian cuisine in Northeast Arkansas. The kitchen turns out exceptional house-made pastas, rich traditional sauces, and an array of classic Italian chicken and seafood entrees in a warm, elegant setting.
It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and is closed Sundays and Mondays.
OMAR’S UPTOWN • 301 S. Main St., Jonesboro • 870-336-3001
Omar’s Uptown provides a sleek, sophisticated environment in downtown Jonesboro, specializing in premium-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and Creole-influenced dishes. Diners can enjoy expertly prepared prime steaks and fresh seafood entrees, or visit the distinct upstairs bar area, which features an extensive wine list and custom craft cocktails.
It is open Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. It is closed on Sundays.
501 STEAKHOUSE • 2628 Phillips Drive, Jonesboro • 870-972-5501
A long-standing favorite for local fine dining, 501 Steakhouse delivers an upscale culinary experience balanced within a comfortable, relaxed environment. The menu features award-winning hand-cut steaks, premium pasta, and fresh seafood. They also regularly host “Live at the Five” events featuring local musicians on the patio.
It is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Casual Gatherings and Summer Patios
NATIVE BREW WORKS • 515 S. Gee St., Jonesboro • 870-336-3199
Native Brew Works is a popular local social hub that prioritizes community connection and unique beverage craft, even using local crops like Arkansas rice in its brewing process. The spot features creative craft brews, inventive tacos, and a distinct lineup of casual pub fare, all wrapped up in a relaxed, indoor-outdoor patio atmosphere perfect for warm summer evenings.
The restaurant is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
THE REC ROOM • 223 S. Main St., Jonesboro • 870-520-5163
Operating as a hybrid coffee house, wine bar, and day cafe on Main Street, The Rec Room is a chic daytime gathering spot that seamlessly transitions among different culinary roles. The menu features all-day breakfast classics like the Smoked Salmon Scrambler, premium espresso beverages, and a curated selection of midday wraps and salads in a trendy, relaxed atmosphere.
It is open Tuesday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is closed Sundays and Mondays.
SKINNY J’S • 205 S. Main St., Jonesboro • 870-275-6264 • 117 N. Pruett St., Paragould • 870-236-2390
Skinny J’s pairs a casual, rustic environment with a massive, eclectic menu that ranges from award-winning burgers to premium evening entrees. Signature elements include half-pound burgers with adventurous toppings, hand-cut steaks, and a fresh oyster bar, making it a lively anchor of the downtown dining scene.
The Jonesboro location is open Sunday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Paragould restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and is closed on Sundays.
Summer Sips and Drink Stops
BUBBLEE TEA • 241 S. Main St., Jonesboro • 870-517-7644
Bubblee Tea is perfect for those wanting to get their boba tea fix, serving a variety of flavors and offering several ways to customize your drink.
It is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and is closed on Sundays.
LEMONADE HOUSE GRILLE • 237 S. Main St., Jonesboro • 870-340-0014 • 2711 W. Kingshighway, Paragould • 870-215-9893
Lemonade House Grille is famous for its massive lemonade menu, featuring everything from classic lemonades to all sorts of unique flavor combinations. Try just one lemonade or sample multiple with a lemonade flight. While you’re there, feast on the restaurant’s burgers, tacos, fries, and more.
The Jonesboro restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and is closed on Sunday. The Paragould location is open from Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and is closed on Sunday.
SHADRACHS COFFEE • Has locations across Jonesboro, Paragould, Trumann, Mountain Home, and more • Locations and hours here
Shadrachs Coffee serves more than coffee. Per its mission statement, it aims to provide “fuel for the soul,” with a healthy helping of joy, community spirit, and encouragement. Its menu consists of different flavored coffees, which can be ordered hot, iced, or blended, as well as its signature Rad Shaddy energy drinks, dirty sodas, teas, lemonades, and milkshakes and smoothies. Get your caffeine fix at of its drive-thru locations or sit and stay a while at its sit-down shops.
IV KINGS COFFEE • 2611 E. Nettleton Ave., Jonesboro • 870-316-4259
IV Kings Coffee serves Onyx coffee, which is award-winning and Arkansas-based. Offering hot, iced, and blended coffees, as well as a selection of pastries and a rotating seasonal drink menu, IV Kings Coffee invites patrons to sit and relax while sipping.
It is open on Monday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m., to 6 p.m., and on Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. It is closed on Sundays.
Sweet Treats and Eats
DELIAH’S ICE CREAM • 2617 E. Nettleton Ave., Jonesboro • 870-206-8857
Offering a variety of ice cream flavors (and plenty of free samples!), Delilah’s Ice Cream is a Mexican ice cream store serving both more traditional and unique flavors. Its menu also boasts nachos, Mexican street corn, and more.
It is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
LOCAL CULTURE • 900 Southwest Dr., Jonesboro • 870-275-7585
Featuring several flavors of frozen yogurt and dozens of toppings, Local Culture has both dairy and non-dairy options. Pile fresh fruit, rich sauces, and classic candies atop a rotating lineup of refreshing flavors. Summer-friendly flavors include summer tart options and fruit sorbets.
Local Culture is open daily from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
SANDY’S MEXICAN BAKERY AND CATERING • 2225 S. Caraway Road, Jonesboro • 870-277-8654
Step up and grab your tray full of Mexican-inspired sweets, including breads, cookies, and plenty of pastries. Everything is freshly baked, and according to the bakery, is made with love.
It is open Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
SCOOPS • 324 S. Main St., Jonesboro • 870-897-6087
Nestled in downtown Jonesboro, Scoops serves a variety of hand-dipped ice creams in cones or cups. Take it to go, or soak up some summer sun at their outdoor seating.
It is open from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
SOUTHERN CONFECTIONS • 2615 E. Nettleton Ave., Jonesboro • 870-316-4259
Located right next to IV Kings Coffee, Southern Confections serves up a variety of sweet pastries and other treats, as well as a wide selection of brunch and lunch options. Grab your coffee at IV Kings and then satisfy your sweet tooth at Southern Confections.
It is open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
