Ouachita Stories

I was raised having consistent dinnertimes at the table with my family most every night. The values of conversation shared over a meal were instilled in me at a young age. When I moved to Ouachita, I realized very quickly that the Tiger community sees the value in these sweet dinnertimes as well. Oh…what a blessing.

In my time here on campus, I learn more and more how much we, as Ouachitonians, love to grab a meal with people we care about. That’s why it didn’t come as a surprise to me when I realized how many of our alumni have carried on the Ouachita love for the dinner table into their post-grad life and careers, becoming owners of yummy restaurants. And since it’s Christmas break, here’s a list of central Arkansas options you can check out yourself!

• Java Primo // Arkadelphia and Hot Springs
  To all my friends and classmates – betcha didn’t know they were owned by Tiger alums!! Owners Josh and Shelley Hughes, both alumni (’97 and ’98), have created the happiest, friendliest and warmest atmosphere in their little coffeehouses. Java serves the best breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as coffees, gelatos and my go-to chocolate muffins and other fresh baked goods. I can also safely say that 75% of my friends have gone on first dates to Java. It’s forever a special place in our hearts. http://www.javaprimo.com/

• Vesuvio Bistro // Little Rock
  As an Italian cuisine enthusiast, this Italian restaurant, owned by alumna Kelli Garner Criswell (’99) and her husband, Bill (’97*), is one I’m highlighting on my go-to list. They serve all the classic Italian favorites as well as some fun Mediterranean dishes. The best part, though … you can top off your night with their beautiful dessert menu, including handmade cannolis. Wow. http://www.vesuviobistro.com/

• Excaliburger // Little Rock
  I have witnessed a desperate hunt break out as my boss tried to hunt down this food truck, going to all extents in the sake of a good burger. Owned by former student Kyle Pounders (’09*), I’ve heard that these Creekstone beef burgers on fresh Challah buns baked by Little Rock’s Old Mill Bread are worth the hunt. It was named Little Rock’s Favorite Food Truck this year by Soirée magazine, so the secret is out. http://www.excaliburger.com/

• Eggshells Kitchen Co. // Little Rock
  For those of you sweet homebodies like me, while eating out is super entertaining, I know it’s not always our first option. Thankfully, alumna Lindsey Little Gray (’02) understands that, too. She’s created a fun spot where one can learn how to bring that delicious, new meal to your table at home. Eggshells offers cooking classes and keeps their shelves stocked with specialty foods and cooking supplies. It’s a one-stop shop, people!! https://www.eggshellskitchencompany.com/

• Tacos 4 Life // Conway, Fayetteville, Little Rock, Benton, Searcy, Jonesboro and Frisco, TX
  I’m willing to say I have eaten here more times than I can count in the past year, and I have yet to get tired of those fluffy little tacos. These taco shops, owned by alumni Austin and Ashton Berry Samuelson (both ’08), runs off of the idea of giving, using their quick and tasty dinners to help end childhood hunger around the world. They purchase one meal for every meal sold in their beautifully designed restaurants. If that doesn’t inspire you to stop reading and go get a taco, I don’t know what will! https://tacos4life.com/

• David’s Burgers // Bryant, Little Rock, Cabot, Maumelle
  Of the burgers joints I’ve been to, I always argue with my friends that this one is the best. Owned by alumna Jessica Gartman Bubbus (’05) and her husband, David’s creates a fun, family-friendly atmosphere reminiscent of a 1950s butcher shop. Their food is worth every single penny plus a couple more, and their fries come with an endless refill guarantee. End of story. https://www.davidsburgers.com/

 

By Addy Goodman, a sophomore English and communications & media major from Arkadelphia, Ark.

*indicates former student

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