Eureka Springs, Arkansas, is known for so many things—the breathtaking Great Passion Play, the soul-stirring Opera in the Ozarks, and of course the endless beauty of the Ozark Mountains. With miles of trails, waterfalls, and hidden overlooks, it’s a dream destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. But there’s another side of Eureka Springs that deserves its own spotlight: the food scene.

This charming mountain town has quietly built a reputation as a destination for those who love to eat well. Unlike many tourist-heavy spots that lean on cookie-cutter chain restaurants, Eureka Springs has resisted the pull of fast food at every corner. Instead, it offers a vibrant collection of locally owned cafés, bakeries, and eateries that celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and community.

Coffee & Conversation

Eureka Springs mornings often start with the comforting aroma of freshly roasted coffee. Independent coffee shops such as, Bean Me Up Drive Thru, Just Bee Coffee Bar & Eureka Daily Roast, aren’t just about caffeine—they’re gathering places where visitors and locals alike slow down, sip, and savor. From cozy spots tucked into historic buildings with eclectic décor, to quick drive thrus for that immediate caffeine hit, every shop has its own personality. Many serve locally roasted beans and house-made pastries that make you linger just a little longer.

Sweet Surprises

If you have a sweet tooth, Eureka Springs won’t disappoint. Artisan candy makers treat confections like fine art—hand-pulled taffy, small-batch chocolates, and inventive flavors that change with the seasons. Sweet’s Fudge Kitchen, Ellens Patisserie, Martin Greer Candies & Two Dumb Dames Fudge Factory are more than places to satisfy a craving; they’re part of the town’s tradition, where recipes are perfected over generations and offered with a smile.

Savory Specialties

Beyond sweets and coffee, Eureka Springs has a growing community of food artisans who are passionate about their craft. Take the curated salami maker at Eureka Charcuterie, for example. The owners’ dedication to sourcing quality ingredients and aging meats with precision creates flavors you’d expect to find in a big-city gourmet market, yet here they’re shared in a warm, small-town setting. Add in the lure of handmade cheeses, pickled vegetables, crackers, fruit & nuts and you have the makings of a food adventure.

A Culinary Destination

What makes Eureka Springs truly special is how its food culture mirrors the spirit of the town itself, unique, independent, and full of character. Whether it’s grabbing Myrtie Mae’s famous fried chicken, endless pasta & sauce choices at Ermilio’s or enjoying a fabulous dining experience at LeStick Nouveau, the experience is always personal and memorable.

Though located on a large wooded lot on the highest peak in the city, 5 Ojo is just minutes from downtown AND we’re on the City Trolley’s Red Route! Thus you’ll have easy access to town by foot, car or trolley, while also enjoying top-tier lodging at Eureka Springs’ only 4-star, historic, bed and breakfast. Perfect!

So, the next time you think of Eureka Springs, don’t just picture the trails and theater. Think of it as a food destination too—where every bite is as authentic and memorable as the town itself.