By Salman Khalid
*Note: the following recommendations are the opinion of the author only and do not constitute any official endorsement or recommendation by the University of Arkansas*
Northwest Arkansas is home to some of the finest authentic international cuisine.
Before we begin this extensive exploration of a food lover’s paradise, one “pro tip” I cannot emphasize enough is to always ask if they offer a student discount. With a virtually endless selection of food across NWA, any savings here and there will go a long way.
International Markets
Starting off with something for the home cooks, International Grocery in Fayetteville offers a decent selection of commodities, with an emphasis on goods from South Asia. It is also conveniently located less than a mile away from the University of Arkansas campus.
Take a short drive up to Springdale and you will find that family-owned Tang’s Asian Market has a wide variety of East Asian ingredients, as well as fresh produce and treats.
Continuing north to Bentonville will yield an extended assortment of global goods such as halal meats and rare spices at World Food Mart and India Plaza.
Restaurant Options
Moving on to eateries, R&R Curry Express in Springdale features delectable Indian cuisine made with freshly ground spices, meats, and vegetables. Want to stay a bit closer to home? Khana Indian Grill in Fayetteville offers a vast and aesthetically pleasing culinary selection with an immersive interior and atmosphere.
The selection of Asian cuisine in Fayetteville continues to grow and shows no signs of slowing down. If you are looking for more of a traditional selection of Thai food, then check out Thai E San; consider Taste of Thai if you are looking for a more American-ized fare. For the spice lovers out there looking for a challenge, ask for “Thai hot” as your spice level (if you haven’t already).
KJ Sushi and Korean BBQ, as well as House of Taste, offer excellent variety. Even better, the staff and owners are super accommodating to guests.
For Vietnamese food, the décor at Typhoon Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine may pull you right in but make no mistake – their spring rolls and Pho are incredible.
Not all good food is found indoors. The Ying Chang Hmong & Chinese food truck near Lake Fayetteville offers classic comfort foods in an outdoor setting. There are many other food trucks in this location, so be sure to check them all out.
Meiji Japanese Cuisine is an intimate joint that puts creative spins on traditional dishes while Kobe Hibachi Grill provides premium tableside service, complete with your own personal chef.
Perhaps you have a craving for Greek fare or are in the mood for Mediterranean. Well, you are in luck: Kosmos Greekafe serves the familiar comfort of hummus and gyros. Petra Café, located right off the Fayetteville Square, fulfills Mediterranean cravings in a laidback casual café with souvenirs from Jordan.
Finally, there is no shortage of delicious food from Central and South America. Mr. Taco Loco, with its specialty tacos and wholesome daily specials, and Acambaro, with the best spicy salsa around, are just two of the many Mexican restaurants located all around NWA.
Rolando’s Nuevo Latino Restaurante incorporates the exciting foods of South America within the setting of southern hospitality. The delicate artistry is embedded not just in the murals on the walls but also within the presentation of the entrees.
Take a Tasty Cultural Tour
No matter where in the world you are from, you are likely to find authentic comfort food from your home in Northwest Arkansas. Furthermore, since this area is a hotspot for fine international cuisine, you will also be able to sample some of the great staple dishes of other cultures.
New restaurants, markets, and food trucks are opening all the time, and there are dozens more international food options than are listed here. So, pull up a chair and take a bite – just be sure to ask if they offer a student discount first!
