The Ozark Cafe has been serving food to hungry locals and tourists since 1909! This makes it one of the oldest restaurants in Arkansas.
This iconic Arkansas restaurant is part history, part nostalgia, and all good country eating.
Not only that, but it has received nationwide acclaim through the years. New York Magazine’s Grub Street has listed Ozark Cafe as Arkansas’s entry in their list of the Top 50 foodie destinations. It was also featured on the show Man vs Food on the Travel Channel.
The Heart of Jasper, Arkansas
The adorable small town of Jasper is, in many ways, the heart of the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas and the Ozark Cafe is, in many ways, the heart of Jasper!
It is located right on the town square so you really can’t miss it. There is usually a crowd both inside and out. If you happen to get a seat by the window you can watch all the happenings on the town square in Jasper.
We have eaten at the Ozark Cafe many times through the years. Most recently we were there while doing a famous Arkansas Road Trip, the Jasper Disaster.
We had already been on several hikes that day including Paige Falls and Lost Valley Trail and Balanced Rock Falls and, needless to say, we were famished when we arrived!
The Ambiance at the Ozark Cafe
The Ozark Cafe feels like a time warp… in the best possible way. It is a classic, small town diner with a warm and unpretentious vibe.
Locals chat companionably with the staff and people like us, tourists, are welcomed right into the mix. The service is very friendly.
Let’s Talk About the Food
Like I said, we were hungry, so we didn’t mess around.
My husband ordered the Volcano Burger, which lives up to its name—this thing is stacked high with cheese and jalapeños, and somehow still manages to be one of the juiciest burgers I’ve ever had. It was deliciously messy.
I had the chicken fried chicken sandwich with a side of onion rings. Definitely recommend both!
Of course you simply CANNOT go to the Ozark Cafe without having dessert. They have all kinds of ice-cream desserts, shakes, and malts, but I suggest you have the blackberry cobbler.
It is SO good. It seriously tastes like it came straight out of grandma’s kitchen. Warm, gooey, just the right amount of sweet, and topped with vanilla ice cream.
We were very content and happy after our meal.
We have also been many times to the Ozark Cafe for breakfast. Breakfast here is a not to be missed country extravaganza.
I’ve heard that their Sunday buffet is excellent as well. I’m looking forward to trying that on our next visit.
In my opinion the Ozark Café isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience.
Whether you’re road-tripping through the Ozarks or just looking for a hearty, feel-good meal, this place delivers.
Thanks so much for stopping by!
