DISCOVER

A Special At Home in Arkansas Promotion

Discover Benton & Bryant Just moments from the Capital City, these two towns in Saline County offer unique local dining and shopping experiences

Earrings and accessories in an array of pastels at Joanna A. in Bryant.

PHOTOGRAPHER MOLLY ANNE SANDEFUR

Built in 1901, the Saline County Courthouse is a landmark in downtown Benton.

Baja Grill While this Mexi-Cali eatery in Benton was founded as a food truck, it has now grown and made a name for itself as a brick-and-mortar (including a second location in Little Rock) thanks to an extensive menu of nachos, burritos, tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, and delicious cocktails. Drop by 2-6 p.m. weekdays to catch happy hour specials on libations and tacos. eatbajagrill.com Congo Fireplace & Patio Does the chilly weather have you inspired to outfit your backyard with a new outdoor fireplace or cozy furnishings? Benton's Congo Fireplace & Patio, celebrating a century in business this year, has 20,000 square feet of showroom space featuring fireplaces, firepits, grills, and more. congofp.com Eat My Catfish Like Baja Grill, Eat My Catfish got its start as a mobile restaurant. Now, it’s a popular go-to for seafood favorites with multiple locations across central and Northwest Arkansas. Visit the flagship eatery in Benton to try their eponymous catfish, or pick up a bag of shrimp—preboiled or fresh—to enjoy at home. eatmycatfish.com Joanna A. This women’s clothing boutique in Bryant is operated by a mother-daughter duo who strive to provide the trendiest looks at affordable prices. Joanna A. is the perfect place to shop for purses, jewelry, shoes, and accessories for all the fashionistas in your life this holiday season. joanna-a.com

Main Street Station This retired Benton gas station was reimagined in 2017 as a dining and gathering space for local food trucks. Currently, you can find Mama Mia Pizzeria, Po Boys-Po Boys, and Rina’s Kitchen on-site for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday. Seating is available at outdoor picnic tables and at limited capacity indoors.

themainststation.com

Salt Soap Co. This family-owned business sells handcrafted bath products—including soap by the slice, bath bombs, sugar scrubs, and even shampoo bars—from their storefront in historic downtown Benton. Slices of Salt Soap Co.’s “Frankincense and Myrrh” soap make the perfect stocking stuffers. saltsoapco.com

Speakeasy Cafe Open 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday, Speakeasy Cafe is a popular Bryant location for an indulgent breakfast or brunch, especially for those who are fans of breakfast burritos, bagels, or French toast. The lunch menu features their take on classic deli sandwiches and soups, as well. spkeasy.coffee

SugarDumplin’s Cupcakes Let your sweet tooth guide you to this bakery in Bryant for gourmet cupcakes, cookies, and cinnamon rolls. Planning ahead for a special occasion? SugarDumplin’s can also provide cakes for birthdays and weddings as well as cookie cakes and cupcake cakes. sugardumplinscupcakes.com