Blytheville is famous for its barbecue.
Two of the big reasons are local staples Kream Kastle and Dixie Pig.
Both restaurants are finalists for the 2021 Arkansas Food Hall of Fame.
Other finalists include: AQ Chicken House, Springdale; Colonial Steak House, Pine Bluff; Dairy King, Portia; Feltner's Whatta-Burger, Russellville; Herman’s Ribhouse, Fayetteville; K Hall & Sons Produce, Little Rock; Monte Ne Inn, Rogers;
Neal’s Café, Springdale; Ohio Club, Hot Springs; Star of India, Little Rock; and Trio's, Little Rock.
The Arkansas Food Hall of Fame honors the state’s unique foods, legendary restaurants, remarkable cooks and influential food entrepreneurs, as well as culturally significant festivals and events.
“Final selection will be by a blue-ribbon panel of judges selected by the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame Committee,” the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame’s website reads. “Admittance into the Arkansas Food Hall of Fame will be a triumphant recognition of those long-standing restaurants that have also become legendary attractions in Authentic Arkansas. These are the places with the dishes we crave and will drive hours, if need be, just to take a bite. Eligible restaurants must be owned and operated in Arkansas and have been in business for at least 25 years; national chain restaurants need not apply. Each year, three honorees will be inducted.”
Kream Kastle is a five-time nominee, while Dixie Pig has been nominated previously as well.
“These nominations honor special food flavors, events and people from across the state,” said Jimmy Bryant, director of the Division of Arkansas Heritage. “Every person has a story to tell when it comes to food and these nominations are the perfect time to share your Arkansas food experience.”
Winners will be announced Feb. 22 in a virtual ceremony.