FlavorsOfNWA - Podcast Details

Shows

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasAtlas the Restaurant- Elliot HuntIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we talk to Elliot Hunt, co-owner and executive chef of Atlas the Restaurant in Fayetteville. We’ll talk to chef Elliot in a second but first?!?! FOOD NEWS! We have a LOADED Food News segment today, so pack a lunch because here we go! The Ropeswing Hospitality Group announces three food and beverage programs for the Compton Hotel in downtown Bentonville. We find out how much spaghetti is made for the Tontitown Grape Festival. Great Harvest Bakery & Café opens soon in Bentonville. Onyx...2025-07-301h 04

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasUptown Kitchen & Taphouse- Seth McDanielIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re up in Rogers at the Uptown Kitchen and Taphouse talking with Co-owner/Operator Seth McDaniel... but before we hear from him?!?! FOOD NEWS!! 72 restaurants are participating in Fayetteville Restaurant Week. We’ll tell you how Black Apple Hard Cider is celebrating their 10th birthday on Sunday. The Fayetteville Farmer’s Market will have a Watermelon Fest soon. Happy first year anniversary to the Leroy! We’ll tell you how and when they’ll be celebrating it. Nomad’s Southtown will be open a bit longer. ...2025-07-231h 18

Flavors of Northwest Arkansas*Bonus Edition* Fayetteville Restaurant Week- Sarah King with Experience FayettevilleIn this special edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we talk Fayetteville Restaurant Week with Sarah King of Experience Fayetteville and we get knee-deep into what’s being offered. There are 72 restaurants participating, offering prix fixe dinners, special drinks, discounts and more. If you plan on going to a Fayetteville restaurant during restaurant week, we’ll tell you some of our favorite specials and how to find what all 72 are offering this week. You can find more at ExperienceFayetteville.com. 2025-07-1927 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasDot's Hot Chicken- Russell IngramIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re talking to Russell Ingram, co-owner of the very popular Dot’s Hot Chicken that recently made the change from food truck to brick and mortar. But first?!?! FOOD NEWS!!! We’ve hit the time of year where we get some temporary restaurant closures, especially in Fayetteville before the U-of-A gets back in session. Torchy’s Taco’s re-opens soon in Fayetteville after a remodel. Little Bread Company is taking the week off. Rick’s Bakery took some time off, but are back! Bake...2025-07-1656 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasChef Matt Cooper (Conifer & Ryn) and Chef Rafael Rios (Yeyo's, Casa Magnolia & Bauhaus Biergarten)In this week’s Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we talk to Chef’s Matt Cooper and Rafael Rios about being 2 of the 5 finalists for Best Chef of the South at the James Beard Awards. They made the trip to Chicago for the awards, and they’ll tell us about their trip, food trends here locally and nationally, and what’s next for them... but before we get to that!! FOOD NEWS!! Art of Wine is Friday night! Goat Lab Brewery is opening up a new concept in Fayetteville. A new cocktail bar opens in downtown Springda...2025-07-091h 08

Flavors of Northwest Arkansas*Bonus Edition* Art of Wine WeekIt’s officially the very popular Art of Wine week at Walton Arts Center! The event takes place Friday night from 8 to 11. We interviewed the Walton Arts Center Events Manager Whitlee Douthitt about the event. How many vendors will be there, what does the event benefit, and how can you get tickets? That’s next here on the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas! 2025-07-0806 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasR.G. Macon & Carson Apple BrandyIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast we talk with Kyle Alexander of R.G. Macon and Carson Apple Brandy, and their story goes back into the 1800’s in Bentonville. But before we hear from Kyle?? FOOD NEWS!! We’ll hear about the new steakhouse atop the Hotel Avail in Rogers, Oak Steakhouse. If you’re watching on YouTube, prepare for some gorgeous views The original Slim Chickens will reopen soon with a new concept. According the Axios NWA, the volume of craft beer sold by Arkansas breweries is dominated by NWA. Cob...2025-07-0249 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBocca- Mike Rohrbach and John HarpoolIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re at Bocca in Fayetteville talking with co-owner Mike Rohrbach and Executive Chef & GM John Harpool, but before we hear from them?!?! FOOD NEWS!! Bonchon has their grand opening tonight in Rogers! The Oak Steakhouse is opening in Rogers at the New Hotel Avail. Queen Donut’s opens this week in Fayetteville. Black Apple Hard Cider is having a BIG birthday this weekend! We talk to one of the owners of the soon-to-be new restaurant/brewery in Lowell, the Fermentary! The Botanical family is gro...2025-06-2545 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasMJ's Pizzeria- Miles JamesIn this edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we talk with Chef Miles James- he of Ella’s at Inn at Carnal Hall, Inn at the Mill, James at the Mill, 28 Springs, and currently? MJ’s Pizzeria. We’ll hear from him shortly, but first?!?! FOOD NEWS! Not the night that we wanted here locally at the James Beard Awards. Chef Matthew Cooper’s new restaurant Ryn will officially open tomorrow! Archie’s Sandwichery opens soon. We’ll hear from the owner! Bloom Cheese Collective has started their soft opening week. We’ll hear when they open...2025-06-181h 13

Bien the KnowDowntown Springdale Street Dinner & Stage (Restaurant Internship) DiscussionWelcome to the June edition of the Bein the Know podcast! Bienvenue Chef/Owner William Mauk reflects on the Downtown Springdale Street Dinner where he was the Executive Chef. What’s it like planning, preparing and serving 400 of your closest friends? Chef Will discusses that with John Engleman from the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast. Also, we get into what’s ethical and what’s not with personal takes on staging (pronounced “stah-jing”). If you’re not familiar, just think of it as an unpaid internship in a kitchen. Prepare yourself for some opinions! As always, Chef...2025-06-1551 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasLa Hacienda & San Miguel Mexican Grill & Bar- Jesus RodriguezIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re at San Miguel Mexican Grill and Bar in Fayetteville talking with Jesus Rodriguez... but FIRST?!?! FOOD NEWS! Wu Zhao finally opens in Bentonville. We’ll hear from owners Barry Furuseth and Vincent Lim. The 9th Downtown Springdale Street Dinner took place Saturday night. Fossil Cove Brewing became a teenager! It looks like a local Indian food chain has closed. If you have a tip or have heard any food or beverage news, feel free to shoot me a note. Just look for Flavor...2025-06-111h 35

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasGoat Lab Brewery- Bill Adams & Alex KeltnerIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re in Lowell for this episode at Goat Lab Brewery talking with owner Bill Adams and Promotions and Marketing Director Alex Keltner... but before we get to them?!?! FOOD NEWS!! Parlor Donuts is having their soft open week, We’ll hear from the owners about their Grand Opening! We have an update on Mermaid’s in Rogers. We talk to Jordan Wright of Wright’s BBQ about helping put together the first Bentonville BBQ Festival that happened Saturday! Sicaru Coffee Roasters will open soon in Fa...2025-06-0451 min

Flavors of Northwest Arkansas*BONUS EDITION* Market Center of the Ozarks Grand OpeningIn this bonus edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast, we cover the huge day yesterday for the Northwest Arkansas food community, specifically for those desiring easier access to fresh local food as well as food entrepreneurs who are looking for an inexpensive option for their food or drink production, as a very crowded Market Center of the Ozarks held their grand opening and ribbon cutting in downtown Springdale. Emily English is the Director of Northwest Arkansas Food Systems and the Senior Program Officer with the Walton Personal Philanthropy Group and explains the difference between the 2 o...2025-05-3104 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasHoned In Sharpening- Tyler EckOn this edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we have an interesting one- in fact, it’s been one that I’ve been curious about for some time. How do chefs get their knives sharpened? Do they send them off one-by-one? Do they do them themselves? We caught up with a local mobile knife sharpener to get the answers. We talk to Tyler Eck of Honed-In Sharpening. But before we do that?!?! FOOD NEWS!! Last week, the downtown Springdale Street Dinner picked their chef, and he’s set the menu. We’ll hear from Bienvenu...2025-05-2837 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasRogers Farmer's Market- Grant Wise, Brandee Howell, and Jessica FiscusIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast we’re taking a bit of a left turn as we’re heading out to the Rogers Farmer’s Market where we had a bit of a roundtable, and we’ll get to that, BUT FIRST??? (*FOOD NEWS*) Pesto’s By Lance closed yesterday. We’ll hear from Lance. Both Renzo’s locations also close, but it might just be temporary Taqueria Lucha opened on Dickson Street last week The Apartment 7 Bar has opened in the space formerly known as WineU on 15th Street across the stree...2025-05-2142 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasNew Province Brewing Company- John LeeHope you’re thirsty! On this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, where we’re talking local BEER... local Beer with owner/operator John Lee of New Province Brewing Company, but first?!?! FOOD NEWS!!! Chef Rafael Rios has a grand re-opening at Yeyo’s at the 8th Street Market. We’ll hear from him. Akira Sushi and Hibachi opens in east Fayetteville. Owner Andreas Tan tells us what it was like leading up to getting the doors open. BBQ King in Bentonville has closed. The Honey Bean Ice Cream Company food trailer has moved...2025-05-1444 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasFeed and Folly, City Park and The Guisinger- Lewis ChaseWelcome to episode 66 of the Flavors of Northwest of Northwest Arkansas Podcast! In this episode, we’re in Fayetteville with Lewis Chase, co-owner of Feed and Folly, City Park, and The Guisinger, which is where we did the interview. But first? FOOD NEWS!! More like COFFEE News today! The highly anticipated Onyx in downtown Springdale has opened. We’ll hear from co-owner Andrea Allen Doomsday Coffee has opened on the West Side of Springdale There’s a new coffee shop opening in Springdale on Memorial Day Weekend The Preacher’s Son has added on... kind of...2025-05-0745 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasLoma- Daniel HernandezIn this week’s Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re at Loma in uptown Rogers talking with Chef Daniel Hernandez, but first!?! Food News!! Lasang Pinoy is FINALLY open in Rogers! Sidecar in Fayetteville fully opens TODAY! Happy anniversary to a Bentonville staple! We hear from the co-owner of Doomsday Coffee about their soon-to-be-opened Springdale store Grove Food Truck Park opens this weekend! El Sol in Fayetteville to shut their doors Burger King on College in Fayetteville closes Onyx in Springdale opens their doors for good next week! Get your tickets for tomorrow’s Dish event...2025-04-3033 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasWood Stone Pizza- Jerrmy GawthropIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we talk to Jerrmy Gawthrop, co-owner of Wood Stone Pizza and formerly of the Greenhouse Grill. But first? Food News! Lasang Pinoy is about to FINALLY open in Rogers Get out your records- Sidecar is about to open in Fayetteville Dining in the Dark in Fayetteville? Yes, at the Mockingbird Kitchen! Act fast! Doomsday Coffee opens in Springdale (we think)! A new pop-up opens in Springdale at the Spring Kitchen K-Pot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot opens in Rogers soon. Win dinner for four! Still a...2025-04-231h 04

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasKelly Comer- Event Chair of Dish, Benefitting Arkansas Children's NorthwestOn this special edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we have the privilege of supporting a great cause, the expansion of Arkansas Children’s Northwest. They’re holding a big fundraiser called Dish, where you’ll be able to try dishes from 25 restaurants. It’s an amazing opportunity as you’ll be able to try restaurants that you might not have had the opportunity to get to. Tickets are $100 and you can get your at archildrens.org/dish. We talk to event chair Kelly Comer in this episode and she’ll tell us more about the event, entertainmen...2025-04-2012 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBauhaus Biergarten- Chef Jennifer Hill Booker & Chef Rafael RiosIn this week’s episode of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re at Bauhaus Biergarten in Springdale, talking with original co-owner Chef Jennifer Hill Booker, and new co-owner, Chef Rafael Rios... Plenty to get to there, but FIRST?!?! FOOD NEWS!! More beverage news today!! There’s a new 7Brew in Springdale that’s the first of its kind. Doomsday Coffee will be opening soon in Springdale. A Fayetteville favorite, Dodo Coffee, is back in business. Part taproom/part boutique Terracotta opens in Bentonville, according to the Bentonville Bulletin. Happy anniversary to Columbus House Br...2025-04-1642 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasMenya Kitakara- Inggit RiantoIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast, we’re in downtown Springdale at Menya Kitakara with owner & chef Inggit Rianto... but before you talk to him?!?! Food News! As I’m sure you know, Bentonville has 2 finalists for James Beard’s Top Chef in the South. Brightwater hosted a magic seminar, kind of. The Savoy Tea Company will be closing its doors Onyx opens a walk-up window for their soon-to-be-opened coffee/chocolate shopin downtown Springdale Inggit Rianto is from Indonesia, but came to the US to goto the University of Arkansas...2025-04-0955 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasFood Network Celebrity Chef Tiffani Faison at Choctaw Casino- PocolaOn this special edition of The Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we welcome Celebrity Chef Tiffani Faison to Choctaw Casino- Pocola, where she’ll be hosting a restaurant takeover at Seven Ponies on Friday (4/4) at 5:00 and 7:30 and Saturday at 5:00 and 7:30. Few tables remain, so get to ChoctawCasinos.com and get yours. Tiffani lived in Oklahoma during her formative years and talks about that. Tiffani loves doing these events and will tell you why. We also talk menu for the event, and if you’re going, go hungry. I’ll be at the Friday 7:30 seating with Mrs. Flavors of Nor...2025-04-0308 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBV65- Scott RedingtonIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re at BV65 talking to Executive Chef Scott Redington, but before we get to Scott?!?! Food News!! Brightwater & Bentonville hosted the World Food Championships. You’ll hear from the winner and others. Core Brewing is re-opening their tasting room today. Crisis Brewing is at a crisis point for room. Hear their expansion plans. You can help the Prelude Breakfast Bar Spring Kitchen Company opened over the weekend The Larder is open at The Ledger Homegrown at the 8th Street Market has announced a grand...2025-04-0241 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasThe Wooden Spoon- Jason & Emily Allen and Cam & Jane KlassenOn this edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we head to Gentry and talk to the current and former owners of the Wooden Spoon, but before we get to them?!?! FOOD NEWS!! A brand new Pickleman’s opens in Springdale Gaskin’s on Emma Executive Chef Sam Walker gives details about their Chef Cycle Fundraiser for No Kid Hungry. It’s an all-star lineup! You can get your tickets HERE. Parlor Donuts are coming to Rogers Takashi Hibachi & Sushi has officially opened a brick and mortar in Centerton Benny’s Bagels will be opening where a...2025-03-2636 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasHeirloom at the 1907- Jason PaulIn this week’s episode of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas, we’re in Rogers at Heirloom at the 1907 talking with Co-owner and Chef Jason Paul, but before we get to him?!?! (*FOOD NEWS!!*) We are anniversary-heavy this week! Happy 75 years to Maxine’s in Fayetteville! Happy 54 years to Patrick’s Hamburgers in Springdale! Happy 29 years to Susan’s Restaurant in Springdale! Happy 8th to the Odd Soul, while enjoying a beard trim with Jeffro! Update on Apt. 7 in Fayetteville. Spice & Tea Exchange Opens in Bentonville Mezzaluna Pastaria gets BIG designation Homegrown in opening in Bentonv...2025-03-191h 06

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasLeverett Lounge- Corey McCain & Reese RobertsIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we hear from Corey McCain and Reese Roberts of Leverett Lounge and the soon-to-be Sidecar in Fayetteville... But first?!?! FOOD NEWS!! In this week’s food news, Muselet moves into the former Bentonville Provisions space, we have a new cut-to-order cheese shop coming to Fayetteville, Maxine’s Taproom is having a birthday throwdown, Onyx will be opening another location, and so will Confident Coffee, there’s a new coffee/beer/food joint in the works in Bell Vista, Bonchon Chicken is coming to Rogers...2025-03-1259 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasCalle Latin Cuisine- Fernando CastilloIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast, we’re in Fayetteville at Calle Latin Cuisine interviewing chef Fernando Castillo. But before we hear from him?!?! FOOD NEWS!! Onyx will open a shared space in the Fayetteville Square, and they’ll be serving much more than drinks. Brightwater officially opens its artisanal butchery program and butcher shop. We’ll hear from Butchery Instructor Travis McConnell. Mermaids has locked in a new spot in Rogers. We’ll tell you where that is. Roll and Fold in Rogers has closed, but is open under a new conc...2025-03-0535 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasThe Hive at 21C- Micah KlaskyOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we celebrate one year! 52 weeks of podcasts down, thousands to go! We’re at The Hive in the 21C Hotel talking with the super-energetic Executive Chef, Micah Klasky. What a great interview... but first? Food News!! It’s an unusually busy week of food news, both good news and bad... Casa Magnolia opened last Friday in downtown Springdale. We’ll hear from Chef Rafael Rios Speaking of Chef Rios, Yeyo’s at the 8th Street Market is closed temporarily, we’ll tell you why. For...2025-02-261h 01

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasThe Venesian Inn- Jeff and Melissa BowenOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we head to the legendary Venesian Inn in Tontitown. Before we get into that, wanted to make sure that you all know that we have cameras now and our podcasts are also on YouTube. Just search for the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas once there, and you’ll see me and my giant head talking to lovely folks. Please be sure to live and subscribe, we’d VERY much appreciate it! Well, we’re knee-deep into the winter storm... As of now, it doesn’t look like we’ll...2025-02-1943 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasButter/Scotch Bakery & Bar- Sam GibsonOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re at Butterscotch in the Bentonville Square- you know the place- part bakery, part bar. We get into that, but first! FOOD NEWS! Applications are open for the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame... The original location of Slim Chickens is closed until summer, we think. We took video yesterday and, well, the original building is gone. Cobblestone Farms in Fayetteville is now reserving 2025 Spring/Summer CSA shares.... The 2nd annual NWA’s shortest St. Patrick’s Day parade has been announced. We have the particulars. Fayettev...2025-02-1247 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasCrystal Bridges & The Momentary- Tim OrdwayOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we head to Crystal Bridges where we talk to Chef Tim Ordway, Associate Director of Culinary Operations at Crystal Bridges & the Momentary... But before we get to Tim, we have food news! The Akira Ramen and Bowl food truck in Fayetteville is adding a brick and mortar location. The quickly popular Stonebreaker Hotel restaurant has new hours Sadly, we have 2 restaurant closures to talk about Chef Tim Ordway started his culinary career like so many- as a teenager working in fast food (Chik-Fil-A, actually), and kn...2025-02-051h 06

Flavors of Northwest Arkansas*BONUS EPISODE* Celebrity Chef Rocco DiSpirito*SPECIAL BONUS EDITION* One of my favorite celebrity chefs of all time is Rocco DiSpirito, and I had the chance to interview him! I just couldn’t believe it. He’s holding a restaurant takeover at Choctaw Casino in Pocola on February 7 & 8, and we got a preview of the menu (that he called his favorites) and for those going, prepare for a treat. Team Flavors of Northwest Arkansas will be at Friday night’s 8pm service, because, how often are you going to get to eat a Rocco DiSpirito 5-course dinner? We als...2025-01-3115 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasThe River Grill- Brenda SwangoOn this edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re up in Bentonville at The River Grille talking to Brenda Swango, but before we get to that... we talk Food News! Some good news: The Feral Pig is finally open in Fayetteville. We hear what items owner Julie Sill has brought over from the legendary Common Grounds Chef Rafael Rios has announced the grand opening date for his newest venture, Casa Magnolia in downtown Springdale Some not-so-good news: The Blackberry Brasserie has closed Bentonville Provisions will be closing soon. Brenda Swango pr...2025-01-2952 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasKYYA Chocolate- Rick BooseyOn this edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re talking CHOCOLATE and all sorts of stories with KYYA Founder Rick Boosey, but first in Food News: Zelli Pasta is now... a deli? Yes, hear about Zelli deli from one of the owners. House 1830 is celebrating the Lunar New Year, and you can too. Another longtime Fayetteville bar will be shutting its doors. It’s Bentonville Restaurant Week! Get your tickets now to the AACF Soup Sunday! Rick Boosey started KYYA Chocolate after a trip to Uganda where he saw how underprivileged kids in an orph...2025-01-2255 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasStonebreaker Hotel- Chef Tyler RogersOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re at the soon-to-open Stonebreaker Hotel in Fayetteville where they have already opened for restaurant dinner service and we talk to Executive Chef Tyler Rogers. I had a GREAT interview with him and can’t wait for you to hear it! In food news: Café Rue Orleans celebrates 24 years. Co-owner Maudie Schmitt re-lives the final moments before they opened back then. After soft opening for a week, TOCA held their grand opening in downtown Springdale yesterday. Osaka House will soon be opening in Fayette...2025-01-1549 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasOzark Culinary History- Chef Erin RoweOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast, we have the definitive storyteller of Ozark Culinary History on with us, and she’s a very gifted storyteller at that, her name is Chef Erin Rowe. But first in Food News, we talk about the soft opening of Toca in downtown Springdale. General Manager Samantha Chavez will give us the rundown of what kind of restaurant they are. We also have an update on former Proof restaurant Lasang Pinoy as they plan to open in their new place soon. Finally, congrats to the Botanical team...2025-01-0835 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasSassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery - Co-owner Cheryl Long and General Manager Drew GortonHappy New Year!!! Welcome to 2025, and thanks for listening to our first podcast of the year, we appreciate you being here! I know that there are folks out there that are kicking off the year with a dry January, and we wish you all the success... However, here at the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas, we toast to the New Year with Sassafras Springs Vineyard and Winery... we’ll talk with them in a minute. But first- Food News! Wanted to start with the Yankabilly Smokehouse- the former food truck at the Boardwalk in Sp...2025-01-0135 min

Flavors of Northwest Arkansas2024 Year-End Edition; My Favorite SegmentsWhat a year 2024 was! In this edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we check out my favorite segments of 2024. As you might imagine, we couldn’t fit to all the stories and episodes, as we had over 40 interviews this year! That said, you’ll hear from chefs, bakers, brewers and owners as they talk about building out their dreams, and the roads taken to get there. If you’re into giving Christmas presents this year, you don’t even have to wrap mine- just like and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. Merry...2024-12-251h 58

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasSmokin' Oak Wood-Fired Pizza and Taproom- Ben RobertsOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re in Uptown Fayetteville at Smokin Oak Pizza interviewing the proprietor Ben Roberts as we were surrounded by the self-pour tap-wall there... we’ll get into it in a sec, but first, food news!! The folks that own and operate Tusk & Trotter and Brother’s Meethouse are hosting their 14th annual Christmas Eve free community brunch. Of course, it’s happening on December 24th from 10am to 2pm at Tusk and Trotter in downtown Rogers and at Brother’s Meethouse in Bentonville. Some big new...2024-12-1838 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasRein Sushi & Hibachi- Reiner Wibowo, Averie Mattix, and Bari AbeOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re in Springdale where we interviewed the 3 owners of Rein Sushi & Hibachi. We’ll talk to Raynor, Bari and Avery shortly, but first... Food News!! Some big food news came down yesterday. James Beard nominated Chef Matthew Cooper and the folks at Conifer announced a new endeavor on Monday night- It’s called RYN! It will be a farm-to-table tasting menu restaurant, and like Conifer, it’ll be gluten-free. Also like Conifer, they’ll support local farmers and purveyors, providing fresh, and sustainable...2024-12-1152 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasLady Slipper- Arturo SolisHope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving.... and welcome to the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast. I’m John Engleman, thanks for listening. Today, we’re up in Bentonville at Lady Slipper talking to Chef Arturo Solis. But before we get to that? Food news! We’re starting to see some winter menus pop up around NWA. Case-in-point, House 1830 in Rogers came out with theirs yesterday. Check out their social media to see a new menu item- curry lobster stir-fry! If you have a place with a new menu coming out, shoot me a note on social...2024-12-0435 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasThe Feral Pig- Julie SillHappy Thanksgiving and welcome to another edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast. Appreciate you being here. Today, we catch up with Julie Sill. You know her from owning and operating a few legendary Dickson Street spots from back in the day, Common Grounds and the Hog Haus Brewery in Fayetteville. She’s back and opening a new spot. More on that in a second. A few quick things first. If you’re in need of a free Thanksgiving meal on Thursday, I’ve posted a list of places that are se...2024-11-2736 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasTheo's (Fayetteville & Rogers), East Side Grill, Southern Food Co., and Tusker's Tavern- Todd & Marti MartinOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we talk with Todd and Marti Martin. They own Theo’s in Fayetteville and Rogers, the East Side Grill, Tuskers Tavern and the Southern Food Company, which was their first restaurant. Before that interview, we hear from Odd Soul owner Jeffro Brown about something that they have going on this week. On Thursday, they’ll be starting campaigns to pre-buy pizzas for those in the area that aren’t as fortunate. They’ll also be hosting a fundraiser to help erase one school’s lunch debt. Again...2024-11-2053 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasWu Zhao- Vincent Yeow Lim, Catherine Zhang and Barry FurusethOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, things will be a little different, as we’re going to be talking to a chef from Australia that has, literally, millions of social media followers and is going to be part-owner of a restaurant opening here. More on that in a second. But first, what a road it’s been for the Mellow Moose Burger food truck of Siloam Springs! They won the Miracle League’s Northwest Arkansas Burger Competition in September, giving them a Golden ticket to World Food Championships in Indianapolis. That happened...2024-11-1334 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBar Cleeta & Big Lieutenant- Trae & Weisi BasoreOn episode 37 of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas, we hop back up to Bentonville to talk with restaurant power-couple Trae and Weisi Basore. They’re the owner/operators of Bar Cleeta and The Big Lieutenant- really enjoyed my conversation with them… but before we get to them??? *Food News* Here’s some quick food news… As you’ll recall, we interviewed Todd Golden from Mermaids at the end of September, and he told us that Mermaids would be closing at the end of the year. According to the Fayetteville Flyer, they have since found a new loca...2024-11-0652 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasPark House Kitchen + Bar- Alma SanchezOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we hop over to Siloam Springs and to the Park House Kitchen + Bar, where we interview owner/operator Alma Sanchez. But before we got into that interview, we wrapped up Top Chef NWA 2024 benefitting the Rogers Public Library Foundation. We’ll hear from the winners and have some news about a popular new part-owner of a Springdale restaurant. Also, this coming weekend will be a popular grand opening weekend in Bentonville. Callisto will be opening on Friday (check out our Facebook/Instagram for our...2024-10-3037 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasMezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar- Owner & Chef Soerke PetersOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast we head up to Bentonville and talk to Chef & Owner Soerke Peters of Mezzaluna Pastaria, and let me tell you, this man has had some experiences that will absolutely blow you away. But first, a quick note if you’re listening to this on October 23rd or 24th in 2024, Top Chef NWA is happening Friday night. I’ve talked about Top Chef here a few times and it’s a great event, as we went last year for the first time. It’s the big fundraiser...2024-10-2349 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasThe Ashleigh Wine & Sake Lounge- Chef Colin StewartOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re in Rogers at the Ashleigh Lounge talking to Chef Colin Stewart. We also introduce a new podcast. It’s called Bien The Know. I host it with Bienvenue (now the title makes sense!) Owner & Chef William Mauk. We have culinary discussions, talk food and wine culture and Chef William will take your recipe questions- just hit us up on our social media. We’ll also have special guests. The monthly podcast will come out on the 15th of every month and the first episode...2024-10-1645 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasGaskins on Emma- Bert Jones, Lisa Provencio-Jones, and Executive Chef Sam WalkerOn episode #33 of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast, we have a fun interview with Gaskins on Emma owners Bert Jones and Lisa Provencio-Jones and Executive Chef, Sam Walker. First, though, we’ve got news from Black Apple Hard Cider. We talked with co-owner Leo Orpin back in August and he told us that some changes were coming. Those changes are almost done, and we hear what they’re adding. It opens in a week and a half… Just down the road in downtown Springdale, Bauhaus Biergarten celebrated their 2nd anniversary last weekend. They had a ribb...2024-10-0956 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasMedina's Tri Tip Company- Eliseo & Chelsea MedinaOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re checking out a place that I recently learned about, and what they’re doing is pretty amazing. We talked with Eliseo and Cheslea Medina of Medina’s Tri Tip Company. But before our interview with them, you’ll hear from Nikki Ringler from Cobblestone Farms about their big fundraiser (and it sounds amazing) and we’ll also hear from Rob Nelson, Co-Founder and Culinary Director of the Good Gravy Group and Managing Partner April Seggebruch about the new Tusk and Trotter that just opened up in...2024-10-0255 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasMermaid's, TJ's Sandwich Shop, and Isabella's- Chef Todd GoldenWelcome to episode 31 of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast. Today’s interview is with Chef Todd Golden, co-owner and chef of Mermaids, TJ’s Sandwich Shop and Isabella’s, which will open soon in Bentonville. But we start with Mellow Moose Burgers in Siloam Springs. For those that don’t know, they’re a food truck that’s gaining popularity, and they were VERY popular this past weekend as they won both the People’s Choice and the Judge’s Choice at the Miracle League Burger competition, earning them the golden ticket to the World Food Championships in...2024-09-2545 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasMarkham & Fitz- Lauren BlancoOn this week’s episode of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we celebrate 10 years of business for local chocolatier Markham and Fitz in Bentonville. But we kick off the podcast talking about a big night. We’re just over a month away from Top Chef NWA, benefitting the Rogers Public Library Foundation. Tickets are available now. We hear from last year’s winner, Garyn Folden from Cura Culinary. In this week’s podcast interview, we catch up with co-founder and owner of Markham and Fitz, Lauren Blanco. They now distribute chocolate to 39 states...2024-09-1835 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasHouse 1830- Binh Hoang & Vatsana "B" HoangOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas, we’re at House 1830 in Rogers where we talk to Owner/Chef Binh Hoang and Executive Chef Vatsana Hoang, or B. House 1830 got the number in its name from the house that Binh and his brother Quang grew up in. The brothers are Vietnamese, but were born in a refugee camp in Thailand, that the family escaped under gunfire. Binh and his family moved here from Oregon, where he fell in love with the restaurant industry as a teenager, but, as an angsty teenager, he w...2024-09-1139 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasFlavors of Northwest Arkansas PromoOne minutes promo of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast. 2024-09-0801 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasHavana Tropical Grill- Francisco GaldamezOn this week’s episode of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we get an update about a grand opening, and we talk to the owner and chef of the only Cuban restaurant in the state of Arkansas. Mallory Files is going from charcuterie business owner to charcuterie studio and wine bar business owner, and she’ll be open VERY soon. We’ll hear from her. Also, if you’ve been to the Havana Tropical Grill in Rogers, you’ve been to the only Cuban restaurant in the state. Owner and chef Francisco Galdamez was born in El...2024-09-0436 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBlack Howler Beer Company- Patrick Bohannan & Jonathan KuenzelOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we talk to Patrick Bohannan and John Kuenzel of the Black Howler Beer Company in Highfill. They’re old pals that met in band in the 6th grade. Now, I think it’s safe to say that it’s not a shock that they weren’t originally looking to open their brewery in Highfill, but it’s turned out to be the perfect match. You’ll hear why. The original plan for the brewery was to get into an established building. That didn’t happen, so the...2024-08-2836 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBlack Apple Hard Cider- Leo OrpinOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas, we’re at Black Apple Hard Cider in downtown Springdale, talking to Co-owner Leo Orpin. Black Apple just celebrated its 9th anniversary! It’s the first and only cidery in the state of Arkansas, and they had to take on educating the masses about cider. I’ve always been curious as to how Black Apple got its name, and it’s a fun story. It was almost names something else. Also, Leo tells us how cider is similar to soccer. Is it? Here it is. 2024-08-211h 19

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBentonville Provisions- Carrie BurseOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast, we hop up to Bentonville Provisions where we talked with Chef and Owner Carrie Burse, and this lady has a pedigree! She went to chef school in Napa Valley before getting to work at a 3 Michelin star restaurant for her externship. Wait till you hear what she did there. She found out that there was a food program out west at Google and her stage (or tryout) was intense. What till you hear what she had to go through. Chef Carrie wi...2024-08-1431 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBauhaus Biergarten- Daniel Hintz and Chef Jennifer Hill BookerIn this week’s episode of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we head to the arts district in downtown Springdale, as we talk to Daniel Hintz and Chef Jennifer Hill Booker of Bauhaus Biergarten. We get into German food and German beer, a very underrepresented concept in our area. Jennifer’s background includes a stint in Germany and she tells us what it’s been like introducing it to an area. Daniel will tell you that he’s a beer nerd and proud of it. They don’t serve domestic beers there, but they do have more than...2024-08-0756 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasCura Culinary- Gary & Mia FoldenOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we found ourselves in Bentonville at a newer place that I’d heard about called Cura Culinary. It’s a smaller restaurant located inside Bentonville Provisions over by the Momentary and it’s run by husband and wife team Garyn and Mia Folden. If Garyn’s name sounds familiar to you, you were probably at Top Chef NWA in November where he took home the big trophy. He’s no stranger to the local food scene, having worked at places like the River Grille, Tusk and Trotter...2024-07-3144 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBethel Brew- Brad and Tanae ColemanOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we have some great storytelling from Brad and Tanae Coleman of Bethel Brew! After corporate careers, they decided to start their own family business. They started with a coffee trailer and within 6 months of their first day with the trailer, they added 2 brick and mortar locations. How did that happen?!?! It’s an interesting story (and they’re about to open store #3!!). Also, why coffee? Brad and Tanae knew nothing about coffee 6 years ago. They didn’t even drink coffee until recently. So why coff...2024-07-2439 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasZelli Pasta- Mitchell OwenIn this episode of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re back in downtown Springdale as we interview Mitchell Owen, co-owner of Zelli Pasta, a homemade pasta and Italian Market on Emma. It started out as a product of the pandemic, as like many, they were cooking quite a bit at home. When they were deciding on what to make and sell, pasta wasn’t their initial plan. Mitchell tells us about what it took to get Zelli open and the first thing they ordered to start the business. As the store grew...2024-07-1734 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasOZ Smokehouse- Jordan PooleOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas, it’s podcast number 20! Yup, we’re geeked about that. What better time than episode 20 to do our first BBQ interview? That exactly what we did with Jordan Poole (not the NBA player) of OZ Smokehouse in downtown Rogers. Jordan’s originally from Memphis, but his BBQ isn’t. It’s not Texas Style, nor is it KC style. He calls it Ozark BBQ and has interesting reasons for it. Jordan also has a past as a competition BBQ-er, even made a name for himself in i...2024-07-1042 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBest of Flavors of Northwest Arkansas- Early EpisodesOn this edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we’re having our “Best of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas” episode. We hear a segment from our very first interview, which was with Lance Corbin of Pesto’s by Lance. Lance is a natural storyteller and I was nervous and hoping that my battery would hold out as I hadn’t used my equipment for an interview before. He carried me like a pack-mule. Our “Best of” Mike Engleman Home Pro Tip of the Week is from Darwin Beyer at Meiji in Fayetteville and it is YUM....2024-07-0339 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasThe Leroy- Ted Belden, NWA Transplants, Munchin With Mantha, Jason SuelOn this week's edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast, we have a little bit of a different one for you, as we were invited to the VIP night at the LeRoy Lounge in Fayetteville on Dickson Street, and man, what a scene it was… But before we get to that… a little about the LeRoy. It’s a dining and entertainment experience. By that we mean that they have duckpin bowling… it’s bigger in the northeast and to my knowledge, doesn’t exist in NWA… They also have 2 sports simulators and 2 gaming media lounges, as well as a f...2024-06-2634 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasFirst Seat Pub- Trisha Walden & Billie Sparks; Dedicated to the memory of Mike EnglemanOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we have a great chat with Trisha Walden and Billie Sparks from the First Seat Pub, Barley & Vine and the Captain’s Seat but not before saying goodbye to my dad, Mike Engleman, who passed away on Father’s Day. My sibling’s and I talk about Dad in the kitchen before I talk to Trisha and Billie. Dad wasn’t necessarily a kitchen maestro… The 3 of us have fun stories. Speaking of fun stories, Trisha and Billie are Bentonville’s Thelma and Louise. They’re a great duo...2024-06-1958 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasMallory Files- Ozark CharcuterieOn this week's episode, We talk to Mallory Files, the 26-year-old dynamo behind Ozark Charcuterie, and man has she been keeping busy. If you follow her on Instagram, you’ve seen what her day-to-day looks like. You’ll also see where she went viral and in a blink of an eye was over 30,000 followers. She’ll tell us what caused that, who exactly her target audience is, and what she learned from it. There’s some exceptionally valuable social media branding advice in there- don’t miss it. Also, what’s a grazing table and why is it so...2024-06-1236 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBarry Furuseth- Blu Fresh Fish MarketplaceThis week, we’re at Blu in Bentonville, where we’re talking fresh fish and the career of its owner/operator, Barry Furuseth. Barry has always been in the fish business, going all the way back to his childhood cleaning fish for tourists on the Minnesota lake where he grew up. After a few years of college, he decided to get back to work, and back to fish. He sold fish door-to-door, and as he put it, absolutely loved it. He continued to sell fish on the west coast, first in the Bay Area...2024-06-0537 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasCafe Rue Orleans- Maudie SchmittOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas, we hop down to Fayetteville to talk to the venerable Maudie Schmitt at Café Rue Orleans. 2024-05-2942 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasGrow NWA- Katie HelamsOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we get trendy with a newer trend that’s working its way to not being just a trend but a mainstay as we talk with Katie Helams of Grow NWA- we’re talking microgreens! They’re getting HUGE nationally and are growing in popularity here. The trend is expected to grow over 11% by 2028. One of the reasons that they’re growing in popularity is because they’re exceptionally rich in nutrients. They also grow QUICKLY. Katie’s a former chef, and she and her husband have been everywhere, bu...2024-05-2229 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasSweet Freedom Cheese- Jessica KeaheyOn this edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we head to the 8th Street Market and interview Jessica Keahey, owner, head cheesemonger and “curd nerd” at Sweet Freedom Cheese in Bentonville. 2024-05-151h 06

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasPleasant Counter- Ahren BoulangerIn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas, we visit with Ahren Boulanger, co-owner and chef of the Pleasant Counter in Springdale. 2024-05-081h 16

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasTontitown Winery- Heather Ranalli PeacheeFor this episode, we interview Heather Ranalli-Peachee, co-owner/operator of the Tontitown Winery. She’s a 4th generation winemaker that learned the art of making wine in her Dad’s basement where he made it. Tontitown used to be known for their wineries, but the last one closed in the 80’s. Heather and her husband David decided with her father that they would revive the Tontitown tradition of commercial winemaking and they’ve been going for a decade now. Heather’s family almost lost the farm years ago. Hear how it was saved! We’ll also...2024-05-0144 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasMeiji- Darwin BeyerOn this episode of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas, we sit down with Darwin Beyer, owner, and chef of Meiji in Fayetteville. Like several people we’ve interviewed, he never thought about getting into the restaurant business until he needed some part-time work back in the day. Darwin is originally from Kansas City and has a great story about how he ended up in Fayetteville. He started Meiji in 2010, and it wasn’t easy for him to get it off the ground. Speaking of 2010, procuring fresh fish back then wasn’t what it is today. How does he do it? It...2024-04-2430 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasOzark Beer Company- Lacie Bray and Marty ShutterOn this edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast, we head to Rogers and the Ozark Beer Company, where we talk with co-owner Lacie Bray and marketing “do-everything guy” Marty Shutter. They were the first brewery in Benton County, and they tell us what it was like being the first and how they got there. Also, how did they stay afloat during Covid? They were VERY nimble. They tell us the lessons learned from that time– some of which they still use. And what was Ozark Beer doing at the Smithsonian last year? So many stories in this one! T...2024-04-1758 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasCobblestone Farms- Nikki RinglerOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we head to the west side of Fayetteville to Cobblestone Farms where we visited with Operations Director Nikki Ringler. They provide over 20,000 of produce for the food insecure in Northwest Arkansas and do it on just 2 acres of land! They practice organic and regenerative farming, which isn’t the easiest route when farming. Instead of using pesticides, they focus on soil health, biodiversity, and natural pest management. If you or your kids want to learn about farming, volunteering there is a great...2024-04-1033 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasNellie B's Bakery- Priscilla and Danielle WrightOn this week’s edition of the Flavors of Northwest Arkansas podcast, we head to Nellie B’s Bakery in Elkins, who are about celebrate one decade in business! We had so much fun visiting with mother/daughter combo Priscilla and Danielle Wright. Priscilla used to manage 9 gourmet bakeries in the Bay Area and has been perfecting her family recipes for a long time. Danielle swore in high school that she’d never get into the food business  They moved to Arkansas from California and Priscilla will tell you why they did- you’ll LOVE this story. Finally, h...2024-04-0337 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasConifer- Matt CooperWelcome to this week’s Flavors of Northwest Arkansas Podcast, where we sit down with James Beard Award Semifinalist for Best Chef of the South, Matt Cooper of Conifer. The son of a Methodist Minister and a food technologist, he lived in 30 different places in Arkansas before heading off to culinary school in the Pacific Northwest. After working there for a while, he moved back to Little Rock to help open a restaurant before coming to NWA to help ramp up the hospitality arm of the Ropeswing Group, before opening his own place. In this ep...2024-03-2754 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasCrepes Paulette- Paula Jo Chitty HenryOn this week’s edition, we talk to Paula Jo Chitty Henry of Crepes by Paulette. She grew up in Bentonville and moved to New York (where she met her husband) and France after college. Once she and her husband Fred had kids, they moved back to Bentonville. With no culinary background, they set out to start a food truck (not their original plan) and have now grown to two restaurants. Hear how they did it, and what their future plans are on this week’s edition of Flavors of Northwest Arkansas. 2024-03-2040 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasBienvenue- William MaukThis week, we visit with William Mauk, chef & owner of Bienvenue in Downtown Springdale. Mauk was classically trained in New Orleans where he worked for some of the best chefs in the U.S. He tells us his story about how he ended up in Northwest Arkansas, and specifically, Downtown Springdale! We also get an INCREDIBLE recipe for Beef Bourguignon and hear about fresh saltwater shrimp FROM ARKANSAS. *Mind blown* William was fun to talk to and has some opinions! 2024-03-131h 08

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasThe Blackberry Brasserie- Hunter Thomason and Bernie MartinezJohn sits down with owner Hunter Thomason and chef Bernie Martinez and learns about their career paths and menu influences. Why did they choose elevated southern food? Also, they recently kicked off new service. They'll tell you all about it, and much more this week on The Flavors of Northwest Arkansas. 2024-03-0631 min

Flavors of Northwest ArkansasPesto’s by Lance- Lance CorbinJohn sits down with Lance Corbin of Pesto's by Lance and talks about "colorful" mentors, restaurant fires, what it was like taking over the former Pesto Cafe and so much more! 2024-02-241h 06