Recent Reviews First

most recent reviews first -

Kelley Teague 8/27/99 Silk Road
Silk Road is a quaint little restaurant located in Springdale at 1200
71 Business Street. The exterior is misleading with its white bricks and
grey trim because inside you will find one of the best authentic Thai
cuisine in Arkansas. The owners, Jerry and Pat Sisco have been in operation
for 2 years. The wait staff are family members therefore the service is
always friendly and efficient. I recommend starting your meal with the
spring rolls which consist of a light pork and vegetable mix served with a
sweet succulent peanut based dipping sauce. Following the appetizer there
are several choices of soup. Some of the more exotic soups include Chicken
Coconut Soup and Spicy Seafood Combo Soup. The menu offers a variety of
delicious Thai entrees such as Pad See Eeu(wide noodle mix with green
sprouts,green onions and choice of meat), Thai egg omelette( fried egg mixed
with fresh vegetables and pork) and Spicy Chicken with Basil. There are
other specialties which do not appear on the menu but will be cooked by
special request. One of my roomates favourite is Ginger Pork which has a
spicy tang in every bite. For special occasions you could request a roasted
duck. For the less adventurous taste buds, the restaurant does offer
traditional chinese dishes like the egg roll, fried rice, Triple Delight and
others. Most of these entrees can be purchased for under six dollars. I hope
you will have the chance to experience this extraordinary cuisine.
(32)

Barret Seymour 8/27/99 ghazi's
        The first time I visited Ghazis Pesto Cafe, located at 1150 N.
College-its on the right side of the road if you are heading towards
Springdale, was purely accidental and unwanted. I was having the brakes
fixed on my car, and instead of waiting in the dilapidated garage of the
brake shop I ventured across the street to grab a beer, smoke a cigarette,
and relax for a moment.
        What I found was an obscure, yet delightfully pleasing atmosphere.
Steve Glenn, co-owner and manager, was sitting at the bar with me
straightening up the food order accounts for that week. Although he was
busy with his work, he turned out to be quite a conversationalist and host
at that. After discussing some trivial things, we began to turn to much
more important talk. What stimulated this was the fact that I looked up
onto the wall in front of me and low and behold there was a picture of
Jerry Garcia, a grin on his face and a guitar nestled between his arms.
This struck
me as very peculiar-a picture of Jerry in an Italian restaurant. Well,
this of course led me to inquire about his musical interests, the Dead
being one of them.
        Now you are probably asking yourself, "Where in the hell is this
revue going?" Every Thursday night at around 8:00 Harvest starts playing
in the southeastern corner of the restaurant. The acoustic duo sings
various folk, hippie, and Grateful Dead covers throughoutext two hours,
which provides a perfect ambiance for the veterans of the 60s, a few
Generation Xers, and the even rarer mountain crowd that dwindles in and
out of the building during your dinner.
        Speaking of which, Ghazis is not just ideal for live
entertainment, it also has a fine selection of food, liquor & wine, and a
most impressive display of European and domestic beers alike. The prices
are somewhat high for the Fayetteville area, dinner and drinks for two
runs anywhere from twenty to eighty dollars, depending on the alcohol of
your choice. The pasta entrees range from $8.50-15.50, bread and Caesar
salad included. But the Caesar and bread pale in comparison to the
entrees themselves. The color presentation and taste are definitely
greater than this region demands of a restaurant.
        These prices might seem somewhat steep to the student, but dont
forget live entertainment and a genuine concern for customer satisfaction
are included in the price of the meal. Also included is the most cordial
and mature, yet pleasingly laid-back staff that I have encountered in the
Fayetteville area.

Paul A. Bayless 8/27/99 The Brass Door
The Brass Door restaurant is located in Gassville, AR. At the Brass Door
the owners have managed to combine decades of cooking experience with a
pleasant atmosphere to provide patrons with an enjoyable eating experience.
My favorite meal which is at the Brass Door is the chicken and dumplings
lunch plate. This includes a salad, mashed potatoes and gravy, and the
vegetable of the day. The price is extremely reasonable at only $3.50 a
plate. While the Brass Door offers five or six different selections a day
for lunch this one is only available on Thursdays.
[add map]
(28)

Paul A. Schmidt 8/27/99 Asahi
Asahi-Fayetteville, AR
        If you are looking for a quaint restaurant with an intimate
atmosphere, excellent service, and great sushi then Asahi is the place for
you. They are located on Dickson Street across from George's. Their fare
includes raw as well as cooked entrees, and they are all reasonably priced.
        For the daring and sushi lovers I suggest some of the handrolls,
sushi deluxe, and the sushi and shashimi combination. These dishes are
for the most part raw and are prepared with the freshest ingredients. For
example you can get delicacies like tuna, salmon, squid, salmon roe, sea
urchin, eel, and octopus. However, for the beginners I recommend some of
the more conservative dishes like the chicken teriyaki and california
roll. The california roll is made with cooked crab, cucumber, avocado,
and seaweed rolled in rice. All or their entrees are served with either
steamed rice or vegetables. Also, you get your choice of miso soup, light
broth with soy paste, scallions, and tofu, or a salad that is served with
a very tasty ginger and soy dressing. To compliment your sushi I
recommend having one of their Japanese beers including Kirin, Asahi, and
Saporro. Kirin Ichiban, which means Kirin is number one, is my favorite
Japanese beer. They also serve sake, but watchout...this traditional
Japanese rice wine will have you karaoking in the middle of the restaurant
by the third or fourth glass.
        When you go into Asahi you are greeted by a unique and wonderful
staff. When you go into Asahi you are asked if you would like to set at a
table or the sushi bar. I recommend you set at the sushi bar if you have
never seen sushi prepared. However, if you decide to set at a table see
if Nina has any tables open. Nina has worked there ever since I was a
freshmen here, which is at least four years, and she has provided great
service everytime. However, watchout on those days when she is in heated
battle with the "sushi nazi," which is how my friends and I refer to
the sushi chef. On many occasions I have heard the "sushi nazi" bellow
out to the staff, "no sushi for you," just as the "soup nazi" on Seinfeld
dictated who and who couldn't eat his soup. However, in the end everyone
typically gets their sushi, and enjoys a wonderfully prepared dish.
        The dress at Asahi is casual, and there is no need to call in
advance for reservations. Depending on what you order, and how hungry you
are you can spend between $5 and $20 per person. They are open each day
for lunch from 11 to 2 and for dinner after 5, except for Mondays when
they are closed.
(29)

Nikki L. Baker 8/27/99 El Chico
Hola, mi amigos, and greetings de Senorita Insensato! Yo quero
contar ustedes cerca de El Chico. Su mi restaurante favorito! Mi enamorado
vaquero y mi salio en datas aqui. Nosotros orden el burrito con queso con
doble orden la habas. Uh la la, como ofensa! El siempre matas el romance
parte, pero la comida es precio lo. El alrededores pareces agradable, pero
de un no fin eco. El es optimo comer que lega en el tarde, asi ustedes
quere hace furioso menos clientes. Recorda, dejar muchas dolares y
distributa la botella el Tums. Yo hablo poco espanol, agrade excusa!
Gracias!
(30)

Brett D. Worlow 8/27/99 Casa Taco
    Although fellow Spanish scholars might scoff at the lack of grammer
considerations regarding the restaurant's name, Casa Taco's excellent food
and even more excellent hours of operation certainly make it easier to
overlook the odd name, which is the Spanish equivalent of Tarzanspeak.
    The food is reminescent of that prepared by that really large fast-food
Mexican chain, but it is done with much more care and precision. When I
opened the box for my food, for example, meat and cheese weren't smeared
all over the packaging. Also, the employees are much friendlier and more
knowledgeable than employees of larger establishments here in
Fayetteville. For example, the young lady that took my order (3 tacos, 2
burritos, and nachos) took the time to point out that I could save almost
one dollar by ordering a particular "family meal deal" than ordering all
of my food items separately. I don't have to tell you that it's hard to
find that kind of service at most restaurants.
    But what impressed me most about Casa Taco was the aforementioned hours of
operation. It's been my experience that a Mexican restaurant that is open
twenty-four hours is worth its weight in gold. The added fact that Casa
Taco is within walking distance (at least for me) makes it indispensible.
    So if you are pulling an all-nighter, whether it be studying or drinking,
you really should give Casa Taco a chance. If you will excuse their
grammer, they will certainly excuse yours.
(31)

David Centrone 8/26/99 Tarks clamstand
        The Tarks that I remember served the best spicy wings I have ever
eaten. Unlike typical "Buffalo" wings (which are baked with Tobasco), Tarks
wings were deepfried with a light batter and then shaken and tossed in a
Crystal hotsauce / butter combination (the mixture of these and the amount
varies depending on how hot and wet you like your wings).
        But aside from serving the best spicy wings I have ever eaten, Tarks
serves a wide variety of seafood including steamed clams, raw oysters, conch
chowder and crablegs in season.
        The location on State Road 7, in Plantation, Florida (where I fell
in love seafood) has gone out of business, but two locations remain: one in
Dania and one in Miami. Look it up if and when you're in South Florida.
(South Port Raw Bar is good too.)

Map from Mapblast: <http://www.mapblast.com/mblast/index.mb>
(20)

/26/99
Orsolya Kore -- Restaurant Review Chartiers
(Sent from different server because I encountered problems using school's
server.)
    If you decide to spend your next holiday in Paris, and after a day's
sightseeing you realize that you are starving and yearning for a traditional
French dining experience, there is only one thing to do: Walk along Rue
Montmartre and enter "Chez Chartiers."
    Inside this elegant restaurant you will have the impression that you have
arrived back to the nineteenth century: waiters in black and white uniforms
and in big white aprons, a two-story high ceiling, a multitude of long wooden
tables, huge mirrors on walls trimmed in Baroque detail. The restaurant is
rarely visited without the tables full of other diners. If this is not
enough indication, the long queues outside the restaurant's front will tell
you of its popularity with both locals and tourists.
    As for the dining itself, you can choose a menu (100 FF or $16)
recommended by the restaurant or choose your own, available a la carte. The
main course selections are rather simple yet elegant, such as "steak au
poivre" (peppersteak) or "poulet au champignon" (chicken with mushroom
sauce). Common side items include fries, roasted potatoes or vegetables.
Pre-dinner appetizers include typical French plates such as mixed salads,
mussels, and buttered shrimp.
    Diners can designers their own four, five or six course meal at a very
attractive price of 12 to 15 dollars per person. This price would include a
delightful table wine of the restaurant (vin de la maison), either red or
white. A couple dining at Chez Chartiers can dine with dessert included for
about 35 dollars, tip included.
    As a souvenir from Paris, take your white paper tablecloth with you at the
end of the meal. This cloth is what the waiter uses to record the price of
your dinner.
(21)

Melissa K. Watson 8/26/99 Copeland's of New Orleans
Dining at Copeland's of New Orleans is a fantastic experience. In the
words of Justin Wilson...I gere-rawn-teee!! Copeland's is a small chain
based in (you guessed it) New Orleans. I have only had the pleasure of
dining at two of its locations (Orlando, FL and Shreveport, LA). When you
step in from outside, you will swear that if you looked back out the
window you would see Boubon St. The festive jazz music and subtle pink
neon lighting put you in the mood for some incredible cajun cuisine-except
for me and my mouth is watering before I even get to Shreveport.
Copeland's has a full service bar with a dining area if you choose to eat
there. The menu offers a variety of pasta, seafood, or steaks all with a
cajun twist. They serve some very traditional cajun entrees, such as red
beans and rice, tasso pasta, etouffee and jambalaya. However, their fried
seafood platters and chicken dishes are equally as delicious. One neat
thing about the waiters and waitresses is that they don't write your
order down. I recommend the crab claws substituted with crawfish tails as
an appetizer followed by the Catfish Acadienne. The Catfish Acadienne is
a signature item of Copeland's. It is catfish filet fried in a flour
batter covered in spicy shrimp sauce served with steamed
vegetables, Red Hot potatoes, and a biscuit. The biscuits melt in your
mouth. If you have room, try the mile high ice cream pie...it requires no
further explanation. If you happen to be straggling off the riverboat
casinos at ten am and you have a few bucks left, go over to Copeland's for
brunch. Actually, go to Copeland's before you hit the racetrack or
casinos. I would not want you to spend all your money before you got to
tantalize your taste buds. You can save your leftovers for the ten am
drive home. Pricing is moderate. They are open seven days a week and
until midnight on the weekends. I have taken many people there for the
first time (because if you go to Shreveport with me you must eat at
Copeland's-it is a rule) and no one has yet to be disappointed.
(22)

Katherine M. Thorn 8/26/99 The best barbeque this side of Memphis
If any of you are looking for some good eatin' in Fayetteville, here's the
place to go. Penguin Ed's Barbeque is a secret gem. The barbeque beef
sandwiches are to die for...and the baked beans have a little kick. The
penguin atmosphere has some originality for us Arkansan (don't ask where
they came up with that one). But, perhaps one of the best things about
Ed's is the snickerdoodle cookies. They're even better than your mom's!
Even though Ed's is a little bit of a drive across the city, it's well
worth your while. Your mouth will quickly be thanking you for the quick
trip across town. So, if your a new folk to the area, and you're in
desperate need of some good old fashioned bbq, don't miss this great spot.
p.s. If you're looking for a good hole in the wall in
Fayetteville...anywhere from Mexican to steaks, ask me...I've just about
tried every place there is. Fayetteville's got all kinds of eclectic
eating!
(23)

Brett A. McDaniel 8/26/99
Slightly to the west of Boulder, Colorado, there is a restaurant
called the Red Lion. Mimiced after a Bavarian mountain hunting lodge this
place is the ultimate in-town getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily
life. With a wine list that I'm sure is next to none, and a
specialization in wild-game cuisine you can not only be assured of an
excellent atmosphere, but also the finest in gourmet dining. While I have
only had the privilege of visiting the Red Lion twice, I find myself
daydreaming of a night where the moon is out, the weather is cold, and my
wife and I are settling into a quaint two hour meal of imported beer, then
wine, then elk, then wine, then dessert, and all the while not having
a care in the world. If you're ever in the area, I highly
recommend setting aside some time for a night at the Red Lion.
(24)

William K. Hardin 8/26/99 "Cock of the Walk" restaurant
     Cock of the Walk's concept is apparent upon arrival. The restaurant
is set within a wooded area, and overlooks a large pond. One is very
likely to see the resident peacock perched on the roof. The interior
design is reminiscent of an Arkansas Territorial trading post.
It features a rustic look of unfinished, dark wood floors, chairs, and
tables. Also, many items, such as farm utensils and stuffed animals,
hang from the wooden walls and rafters.
     A wait for a table is easily tolerated with a pit stop at the ample
bar. That is, if you don't mind a huge stuffed beaver staring down at
you. After customers are seated, the servers start up their main
gimmick of tossing a mini-cornbread in the air and catching it back
into a mini-fryig pan. Some servers will toss the cornbread to each
other, with mixed results.
     The menu is best described as standard Southern fare. This includes
greens, roast, and catfish, and chicken as a few of the staple selections.
Complimentary appetizers are made up of battered and fried pickle slices,
pickled onions, and, of course, much cornbread.
     Cock of the Walk is located in Maumelle, AR (about ten miles north of
Little Rock). It is an easy restaurant to like. Stop by, and tell them
Darrell sent you.
(25)

Richard W. Highsmith 8/26/99 Louie's Cafe
        How does one determine one's favorite restaurant? It could be an
expensive place with exqusite food. It could be a resturant with a unique
atmosphere. It could also be a place where you would feel comfortable
eating at any time. My restaurant for review fits the third discription.
Louie's cafe is the type of place where people eat after late night study
sessions in the library, after a big football game or on a Sunday
afternoon.
       Louie's is a 24-hour breakfast diner located about 250 ft past the
north edge of LSU's campus. A black and white sign hangs over the awning
in front of the resturant. The sign has a crudely drawn man in a chef's
hat with a moustache and the words "Home of the Veggie Omelette." At any
given moment, there will be people at Louie's. On Tuesday at 4am, there
will be a few scruffy looking people drinking coffee at the counter.
       Louie's is a popular place on game days. A long queue of Tiger
fans trails from the front door. These die hard Louie's fans are waiting
to order a huge plate of hasbrowns with sour cream, cheese and bacon piled
on top. Every Sunday, the after-church crowd waits outside to order big
omelettes filled with almost everything in kitchen.
        A unique culture gravitates around Louie's. I've known about a
dozen people who have worked there. When you know the employees, they
show you all of the interesting off-menu recipees like fruit omelettes.
The cafe has been by campus for eons in several buildings on or near
Chimes street. My mother and uncle ate there in the 1960s as students. At
that time, there was a Louie and he was the only worker.
        If anyone can think of a potential surrogate Louie's in the
Fayetteville area please e-mail me or post it to the list server. I could
use a good omelette right now.
(26)

Chilesa J. Jones 8/26/99
If you are looking for a restaurant with just the right atmosphere,
wonderful food, and excellent service, you must go to the University Club
in Jackson, Mississippi. From the moment you walk in the door, you are
treated like a king or queen. The waiter seats the ladies and issues each
woman at the table a rose. Usually someone is in the background playing
love songs softly on the piano and as you look out of the window, you are
able to see the lights of the city. The waiter proceeds to give you the
menu which has entrees including veal, duck, pastas, etc. of which you may
take your pick. After this, you are given something to wet your palate
and get your ready for meal. This could be a small spoon of sherbert
or a sliver of raw fish. From here you are served three courses
including soup/salad, bread, your entree and dessert. My favorite part of
the meal is dessert because there are so many and each of them tastes
fabulous! In addition to the great service and delicious food, the
atmosphere is truly magnificent. Its like sitting on top of the world and
looking out on the city without a thought in your mind as you take in the
beauty of the evening lights and the tranquil sky. For those few moments,
you can escape to never-never land and reminisce on times past. It is
relaxing and romantic and the perfect way to begin a wonderful evening.
Warning, the menu does not have any prices on it so come with deep
pockets.
(27)

Eric R. Gribble 8/26/99 Bennihana's Japenese Steak House
    For those of you whose idea of a good restaurant consists of a delicious
meal and an entertaining atmosphere, then Bennihana's is a place that you
should visit. It is located in Memphis and Nashville, and I am sure other
places across the country as well. It is not the most expensive meal that
you could imagine, but it is not exactly cheap either. Their menu
consists of chicken, steak, shrimp, lobster, and all sorts of shushi. If
you enjoy drinking beer, they have woderful Japenese beer, and for those
who are more daring, you can order warm sakki(spelling?). Personally, I
am not big on warm alcohol, however I have heard that it is very good.
    Your dining experience begins with a bowl of their Japenese soup. I am
not sure what it is, or what is in it,and it is probably best that way. I
do know, however, that it is absolutely delicious. After your soup and
salad, they bring you a bowl of fried rice. I eat a lot of fried rice,
and this by far the best that I have ever had. After you have ordered,
eaten your appetizers, and had a few drinks, then your chef will cook for
you, and most importantly, entertain you.
    They cook on a large grill, which is located at your table. They will
toss some knives and eggs, flip some shrimp at you and even tell a few
jokes. I highly suggest you vist Bennihana's if you ever run across one.

Amy Huffman 8/26/99 Houston's in Memphis
Houston's restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee is a trendy restaurant with
great food and exceptional service. A thirty minute wait is always expected, and
longer waits abound on weekends. The food, service, and atmosphere are
worth the wait. Houston's has a limited menu including steaks, ribs, and
incredible salads. A feature on Saturday is the firehouse chili served as
the soup of the day or on a burger. While everyone notes the great food,
all reviews of the restaurant comment on the outstanding service that the
waiters give. Whether you are drinking Coke, iced tea, or beer, drinks
are always refilled before you ask. If ever in Memphis (or Kansas City),
be sure to make your way down Poplar Ave and stop for a meal at
Houston's. Their best-known item is an appetizer of Chicago style spinach and
artichoke dip served with chips, salsa, and sour cream. One other important note...
John Grisham wrote a seen from The Firm in Houston's.

Sommer D. Faulkenberry 8/26/99 Sirloin Inn
Sirloin Inn is a steak house located near the river in
downtown Little Rock. However, the restaurant has much more to offer
than steak. The menu also includes various types of seafood, chicken, and
a variety of vegetables. One can also enjoy their delicious bread which
is covered with butter and a wine sauce. Perhaps the best thing about
Sirloin Inn is the relaxing atmosphere provided for diners. Much better
than your typical steakhouse, Sirloin Inn offers something for everybody.

Jeffrey J. Galvan 8/24/99
Dirty 92s Austin, TX

If you ever find yourself in Austin, TX in search of some great food
that will stick to your ribs try Dirty 92s. As the name suggests this is
no place for those people with aspirations of the perfect body. (Grease
is considered a food group here.) The restaurant dates back many years
and is located just off the University of Texas campus. Although, the
building is somewhat unpleasant to the eye, the food is delicious, and
no matter what item you choose from the menu it is safe to say you will
enjoy it. Their specialty, which I recommend, is burger, fries and a
shake. They also serve many other types of grilled meat as well as a
variety of beers. In spite of Dirty92s appearance you should expect a
truly unique dining experience at a minimal cost.

Nathan D. Hamblen 8/24/99 Barracks Fish House
Well, if you ever find yourself in Pensacola, Florida you and your
traveling companions should definitely check out the Barracks Fish House.
I suppose I could start by describing the atmosphere of the place. The
restaurant is tucked away in a remodeled development in downtown Pensacola
at harbor's edge. The building appears to be one great made over
warehouse that no doubt contributed some significant part to the city's
seafaring past. My friends and I took our dinner outside on the deck
which backed up to the shore of the bay. The view was soothing and fairly
romantic when considering the overall effect of a seaside dining
experience: balmy, subtropical air rustled by a fragrant, heavy sea breeze
with the backdrop of ships, water, and city lights dancing across the face
of the rippling harbor. Music drifted to the outdoor dining area via a
yacht/restaurant across the water. The staff was friendly, and I would
rate the food as excellent. The Barracks Fish House was the sort of place
where friends could gather for a long, leisurely, and overwhelmingly
enjoyable supper. The whole tempo of a vacation should be relaxing and
even a touch decadent, in my opinion, when considering money and time
spent on eating out and other entertaining activities. Few Americans
would arrive at dinner after dark and stay for hours simply enjoying the
food, friends, and surroundings. We all should take a lesson from the
Europeans on this one. The Barracks Fish House was just the sort of
place where you could spend a little time with others and take in some
wonderful food.

Map from Mapblast: <http://www.mapblast.com/mblast/index.mb>

Jay A. Edwards 8/24/99

My restaurant review is a little different, in that, it is a review of the
disproportionately good food found in a very small town. The town I refer
to is Krebs, Oklahoma. It is a town of about 2000 people and it sits in
the southeastern region of the state. During the 1920's Italian
immigrants moved to the area and established a community that even today
maintains its "old world" flair. Each September Krebs hosts an Italian
festival where the businesses such as Italian restaurants and markets,
show their wares. But one does not have to wait for the annual festival
to enjoy the tremendous foods offered all over this small town.
Restaurants such as Giacomo's, Pete's Place, and Isle of Capri, are just a
few of the spots one can partake in authentic Italian cuisine offered in
the area. Every restaurant follows the traditional format of: hills of
spaghetti, giant meatballs, and mouth-watering raviolis, all served before
your meal is brought out. So, if you are ever in Southeastern Oklahoma
be sure and stop in at one of Kreb's fabulous "old world" Italian restaurants.

.
Map from Mapblast: <http://www.mapblast.com/mblast/index.mb>

Steven L. Caruthers 8/24/99
Anyone traveling through the Spa City, also known as Hot Springs,
has undoubtedly heard the name of McClard's Bar-B-Q. Whether traveling
through or visiting the racetrack, it is unlikely that one could ever ask
someone where to eat in Hot Springs and not be referred to McClard's. The
reason is simple. McClard's has been in the same building for several
decades, and the owners have never been willing to relocate. Nor have they
accepted any of the many offers to open another restaurant or to begin a
chain of restaurants. Why? It is probably just hometown values. The owner,
Joe McClard, has obviously amassed enough money to close the restaurant
and retire, or at the very least, just to pay someone else to manage the
place for him. That is not what you will find, for Joe can almost always
be found in the building talking to customers, or in the back still cooking
in the kitchen.
The seating will probably hold no more than 50 people, and will
probably never be enlarged. Many times the wait can be an hour or more
just to get inside of the crammed restaurant, where movement is very
limited. Relax, the wait will be worthwhile. No matter the desire, beef or
pork or tamales or fries or baked beans, the food is extraordinary. But
the crown jewel of the place is something known as the "spread." Although
not sounding appetizing, it is wonderful. It begins with a bed of corn
chips and two tamales placed on top. Covering the chips and tamales is a
thick layer of their wonderful baked beans. Shredded beef is placed on top
of that, and then the famous McClard's Bar-B-Q Sauce is poured over the
top. If that is not enough, shredded cheese is then melted on the top to
creat a wonderful meal. Two things to remember when visiting though, have
plenty to drink on hand because the sauce is spicy, and don't ask for
chicken. Never had it, never will.

Professor Sampson 8/24/99 Otis Zark at Terra
One of the great things about living in Northwest Arkansas, and
Fayetteville in particular, is that beautiful scenery lies in every
direction. See the view to the east as you drive to Otis Zark on Highway
16. Otis Zark lies on its own little road, to the south of 16, just after
Elkins and Durham (look for the Terra Studios signs). The restaurant
yellow pages of your phone book say its about 16 miles from Fayetteville.
I've decided it's a great place to entertain out-of-town guests or enjoy a
getaway with significant other[s].
        Otis Zark at Terra is open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch,
seasonally, during the warm weather. It has decidedly "gnomish" decor and
offers some decent food. To be honest, I've only eaten there once, but
when I did, I had a great time and filled up with some delicious
appetizers: crab cakes, calamari, finely spiced cheese bread -- before I
ate some reasonably done-to-order filet, garlic mashed potatoes and asparagus.
The wine list, according to those in-the-know, is respectable.
        After dinner, we retired to the veranda and enjoyed a calm evening in
front of a stocked pond adorned by several footpaths and footbridges. The
scenery at Terra is 60-70's "commune." That is, several aging hippies seem
to have made their home at Terra (tell-tale cottages and assorted dwellings
peek out of the trees, along with some gnomes and other fantastical
creatures). The residents and/or commuter artists create pottery and the
"Original Bluebird of Happiness." Terra offers tours of the pottery studio
and the glass sculpture operations. They have set up parking spaces for
plenty of tourists, so you might want to call for reservations during the
fall color period or a game weekend. Contact them at 501/643-4063 or by
e-mail at: otiszark@arkansasusa.com
        And . . . [drumroll], I found two web-reviews of Otis Zark at:
<http://www.arkansas-online.com/weekend/food_reviewsN1.html>

Sarah Morris 8/23/99 The Back Forty
In the thriving metropolis of Mountain Home, Arkansas lies a great
establishment, The Back Forty. This is a restaurant that caters to both
regulars and lake tourists alike. I can't think of a better place to
spend the evening after a day of basking in the sun on the waters of
Lake Norfork. Now don't expect the best service, but do expect the best
food. Many years ago, I had my first Back Forty experience. My friends
and I asked the waitress (the only waitress) for a menu and we were
told, "We ain't got any." In reply we asked what they had to eat, and
the waitress's response was, "burgers." Since then the Back Forty has
progressed to having menus and even wine though I still wouldn't call it
a classy kind of place. Before, it was simply burgers and cold beer.
Of course there was no chance of ordering a Guinness or Pete's Wicked
Ale, the choices were more along the lines of Bud Light, Bud heavy,
Coors, Coors Light, Miller, etc. You get the cheap domestic picture.
The horseshoe pit out back and the pool tables are also big attractions
for the restaurant. However, no horseshoe pit or pool table could ever
compete with the juicy burger and cold beer.

Nancy E. Pryor 8/23/99
        If youre a boring meat and potatoes kinda person, stay out of Cafe
Chisme.
        Its reserved for people who savor intense and unusual flavor
combinations, and who relish the idea of a funky little off-the-wall cafe.
        Tucked into a niche between a childrens millinery and a lace
curtained odds-and-end store, Rolando Cuzcos Cafe Chisme adds to the
culture of historic downtown Main Street in Van Buren. Years ago,
Cheryl McKinney of the Ozarks met and married Rolando Cuzco of
Ecuador, and together they began making and importing straw hats from
his native country. The couple lived in bustling New York City, but when
their son Andrew was born, they moved to tiny Cedarville, AR to raise him.
        Because they missed the character of the Latin restaurants theyd
grown accustomed to in New York, two years ago the Cuzcos opened Cafe
Chisme (The Gossip Cafe in English). Five flavors are predominant in the
cafes dishes - roasted pork, black beans, avocado, mango, peppers and red
onions. But the food is anything but bland, and are usually as pleasing to the eye
as it is to the palate.
    The cafes specialty is tender, corn-husked wrapped tamales filled
with pork/chileor green chile/cheese stuffings. Traditionally served in Ecuador at
Christmas, tamales are only available at Chismes on Fridays and sometimes
Saturdays, depending on the cooks whim.
        Appetizers include spicy chorizo taquitos with a red onion and
jalapeno relish, lime and avocado soup and roast pork and mango quesadillas with
a green tomatilla sauce. Cuban black beans and rice - made with pork, black beans,
cheddar, tomatoes, scallions and green, red and yellow peppers - can be ordered
as Hoppin Juan, with black-eyed peas substituted for the black beans. For those
who prefer a lighter touch, theres an Ensalda Cuzco, a salad of romaine lettuce,
peppers, scallions, cheese, avocados, tomatoes, cucumbers, marinated red onions
with a mango-parsley vinaigrette.
         Rolando Cuzcos Cafe Chisme, 507 Main St. in Van Buren, is open
for lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Dinner is served from
5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Because Van Buren is located in a
dry county, you have to quench your thirst with a mango-orange iced tea, fresh limeade
or cafe con leche (coffee with milk).   Prices range at lunch from $6.95 to $9.95, and all
dinner entrees are $17.95.

Scott Koksal 8/222/99 El Zarape's Mexican Cafe
    At El Zarape's restaurant in Garden City, KS, the most endearing
thing a visitor will remember is not going to be the food. That's not
to say that the food is bad at this small cafe, its just not the aspect
most remember. The food is your basic Tex/Mex fare with lots of ground
beef, cheese, the subsequent grease and sour cream used to cool the
palate. The cheese and onion enhiladas are fantastic, as is the Tijuana
tostada, but, again, that is not El Z's main attraction.
    It's main attraction is its service. The Garcia family that started
the place over 20 years ago is known for its wonderful hospitality and
seemingly endless family tree. The wait staff, specifically Peter, are
locally famous for remembering personalized orders off of the menu's
mainly a la carte fare. For me personally, I hadn't been back home in
more than 6 months on my last visit, but when I returned Peter
remembered my order exactly. The place is almost always packed, but the
service never falters.
    So, if you are ever in the area and you want to truly enjoy Western
Kansas hospitality--remember that the area is nearly 50% hispanic and
that once you order from Peter, he'll probably never forget you. An
added bonus is that if you make a combination that is truly unique,
they'll name it after you and sell it under that name.

Maps from Mapblast: <http://www.mapblast.com/mblast/index.mb>

Darrell F. Brown 8/22/99 "Say" Macintosh's
Now if you have ever eaten at restaurant that has reminded you of home
then here is the exact opposite and the same. What do I mean? Well Say
Macintosh, known as one of Little Rock's most expressive personalities has
been in the food business for ever. Say Macintosh's is the place to go if
you want great food, huge servings, and low prices. At the top of the
list is the "Big Bad Say", a huge (and I mean huge hamburger) equipped
with whatever sides and additions you like. This burger is served in a
huge styrofoam take-out box and fills it completely up, with fries in a
bag on teh side. In addition Say prepares great pork chops and hot wings
(a personal favorite) as well as a steak sandwich just as filling as the
burger. Located in Little Rock on the corner of 12th and University, his
new location has opened the store up to more customers. So if you like
great homestyle food and drinks and don't mind the occasional outbursts of
political and social rantings of it's activist owner then step on in to
"Say" Macintosh's and give the "Big Bad Say" or any of his other aptly
named entrees a try.
p.s. be prepared to bring some home!

Joseph R. Falasco 8/22/99 Bertos Mexican Food
Oceanside, CA

***Bertos Mexican food is a small shanty located on just about any
street corner in the sprawling young metropolis of Oceanside. Don't be
fooled by the varying prefixes associated with any of the bertos as they
will range form Albertos, Robertos, ALIbertos, JOSEbertos, to ADELbertos.
The many names and permutations of the bertos family are endless.
However, the food is cooked in the same manner in all of the bertos
restaurants and they all have the genuine mexican taste.
Bertos is a south of the border, grease driven, fast-food
restaurant that can be devoured in a booth or on the road in a car. The
orders are cooked fresh and made quickly. The southern Californian rave in
the bertos world is the Carne Asada burrito, at $2.75 this filling meal
can not be beat. Often this mouthwatering mega-mountain of a burrito can
be complimented with the addition of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Carne Asada is a delicately marinated strip of meat. In most instances,
and by definition, carne asada should come from a cow, however it would
not be completely striking to see a bertos employee pushing a cart of
mystery meat across the street and through the backdoor of the kitchen.
Bertos are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and on holidays. If
you happen to be there on a Thanksgiving or Christmas, they will often
throw in a side of guacamole for free. Despite the ambiguity of
ingredients and the lack of customer service skills, bertos is a fine
dining experience. So if you happen to be Oceanside, whether it be on
tourist trip or a first date, don't forget to tingle your tastebuds at one
of the locals most highly loved restaurants in the north county. ALBERTOS
ROCKS!

Thomas S. Randall 8/20/99
Ruth's Chris Steak House in San Diego, Ca
This is an expensive ritzy kind of place, but the food is very good.
They bring your steaks out crackling in your plate. My wife said it
was the best ice tea she ever had.

Donna M. Martin 8/20/99 restaurant review Charlies Restaurant
                            Neosho, Missouri
    The best time to get to Charlies is about 5:30 AM. He doesn't open until
6:00, but if you want a seat you have to get there before the towns
lawyers. Note: Charlie will serve coffee while you wait for him to turn on
the lights.
    From the time he starts cooking you can smell onions from two blocks away
and if you are brave enough to eat there, you will leave smelling
like a field of onions yourself.
    I have never heard any one say anything about the food, good or bad. I did
have a hamburger there once and it was very greasy and well done.
    The coffee and the local gossip seem to be the main attraction. If you
want to visit Charlies, he is located one block north of he square on Wood
St. While there you might keep in mind that every thing you say
will probably be over heard and you can count on it being tomorrow's
gossip.

Caroline Curry 8/19/99 Southfork Truck Stop
    In the small southern village of Gurdon, Arkansas, life is simple. Chevy
pickups, country music, and rednecks reign supreme. For the people of this
absolutely horrid little place some of you might know as "the Middle of
Nowhere," one place stands out as a culinary haven for the
cooking-deficient. Located five miles west of town, on Interstate 30, a
small restaurant/convenience store known by the locals simply as "Southfork"
serves up southern masterpieces to the travelers daring to stop there.
    The best burgers in the world, carefully crafted by sweet, chain-smoking Sue
(if you are lucky) force you to question the continuing existence of
McDonald's Quarter Pounder, while the succulence of the tender T-bones might
cause you to reconsider future Sizzler escapades. The restaurant also
offers great catfish as the Saturday night special. Chicken strips, mashed
potatoes and gravy, corn on the cob, fried chicken, baked potatoes--all are
absolutely wonderful, and all are offered by this humble establishment;
however, these foods are the staples of a southerner's cooking repertoire.
What makes the citizens of Gurdon, and those of surrounding towns, choose
Southfork as their choice for a "home-cooked meal?" The waitresses (no
waiters) are all quick, proficient, and are often inclined to chat
extensively with their various visitors. The food is quickly delivered, the
coffee cup or drink glass remains full, and the price is extremely
reasonable.
    This place is not merely a restaurant, however. While most truck drivers
and locals do choose to dine at Southfork; it is most often used by the
reigning rednecks as a place to sober up, socialize, and then have Sunday
dinner. The adjacent convenience store also offers a wide selection of
printed pornography for them to peruse, should they so choose.
    Southfork does not offer a wine selection. There is no beer. The booths
are uncomfortable, and the clientele leaves much to be desired at times.
Despite all of this, Southfork is definitely the place to visit if given a
chance.

Map from Mapblast: <http://www.mapblast.com/mblast/index.mb>

Amanda C. Rose 8/19/99 The Old San Francisco Steak House
    When you are in Dallas, TX, you must stop by the Old San Francisco Steak
House. The first time my husband and I went there, we had to wait 2 hours
to be seated, but he assured me it would be worth the wait. While we, and
probably 100 others waited, a bartender mixed drinks in a little closet
under the stairs in the lobby/entry area. So we were all talking to each
other very freely in no time at all. And when they called your name, you
thought "Ahh, man" because it really was fun waiting!
    The main level of the restaurant has a man playing upbeat, old music, rag
time kind of stuff, on a stage near the front. Also there at the front is
the bar where bartenders are showing off their bottle tossing skills, etc.
Then, every twenty minutes or so, a lady in a trapeze artist-type leotard
comes out and gets on this swing that is tied to the ceiling maybe 40 feet
up. She swings all the way up to the ceiling on both sides, ringing bells
that are attached to the ceiling. It was surprisingly entertaining.
    And last but not least, we ordered filets that were cooked to perfection
and probably the best steak I've ever eaten. Also, they fix your baked
potato right at the table just like you like it. The service was great,
and the food was excellent. The price wasn't too bad for great steaks,
good entertainment, and several drinks. It was a great way to spend a
Saturday night. And we have since driven back solely to eat there.

Michael B. Heister 8/19/99 The Wild Boar
If you are ever in Nashville and want to thoroughly spoil yourself then I
recommend you make reservations at The Wild Boar. Dress is semi-formal
but even that is relaxed on the weekdays. When ordering, be sure to take
a look at one of the fine bottles of wine from their 33,000 bottle cellar.
If you have the money, you can drink a bottle of wine that cost as much as
a nice car. I highly recommend ordering the seven course dinner which
will give you a very diverse range of foods ranging from French sausage
with squid ink sauces to little eggs full of un-identifiable things. The
amazing part of it is that it all taste so good you really don't mind
that you don't know what you're eating...(not that you could pronounce it
if you did know what it was...) Be sure to send back a glass of wine to
the chef if you are pleased with your meal. The guys back in the kitchen
really appreciate it!

Rhonda D. Raulerson 8/19/99 Pouncey's Restaurant

Pouncey's Restaurant is known in Perry, Florida for its fine home cooked
meals. If you like country fried steak or fried chicken, Pouncey's is
the place to be. Your entree is served with your choice of 3 fresh veg-
etables out of a long list of favorites. Not to mention, the price is
right, too! You won't leave there hungry or dissatisfied. The friendly
servers are an added plus. So, stop in 'cause you don't need a reserva-
tion. Don't forget to ask about their "froglegs", not my favorite, but
maybe it will be yours.

Map from Mapblast: <http://www.mapblast.com/mblast/index.mb>