Arkansas Life magazine asked me to spend a few days in Bentonville, Arkansas and capture all that ensues. I started with First Friday, where the square is transformed into a giant block party for the entire community. Great food, live music, children’s activities, gallery openings and more are all simultaneously taking place. The next morning I woke up bright and early for their famous Farmers Market.

I also went to the new Blu Fresh Fish Marketplace where I was able to watch as they unloaded boxes of fresh fish. Not only do they sell whole raw fish, but they also have a full service restaurant where I was able to sample their delicious shrimp.

Following that I headed to Oven & Tap which is named for its custom built wood fired oven & tap wall. They offer simple & delicious dishes inspired by southern fare, delta flavors, & hints of Italian flair. The kitchen crafts each menu item from scratch using house recipes & quality ingredients (sourced locally whenever possible). The tap wall houses delicious, hand-selected beer & wine, small-batch cocktails, & Onyx coffee.