Date: April 26, 2020 | Photography: Sarah Oden |
Opportunities to eat, drink, shop, and experience local culture abound in these two neighboring South Arkansas towns | A Special At Home in Arkansas Promotion
Flying Burger & Seafood
With locations in both El Dorado and Magnolia, this eatery’s atmosphere and menu are inspired by the classic American diner. True to its name, offerings list both seafood (fried catfish and po-boys) and diner staples like cheeseburgers and milkshakes. flyingburgerandseafood.com
Griffin Restaurant
Headed up by Michelin-starred chef Austin Brian Johnson, this restaurant in the heart of El Dorado’s Murphy Arts District has made its mark on the Southern dining scene by elevating classics like fried chicken, pimento cheese, and hushpuppies. eldomad.com
JavaPrimo Coffee House, Café & More
In addition to a wide range of single-origin and blended brews, this Magnolia coffeehouse has an extensive menu that includes everything from brick-oven pizza to fresh pies and cakes. javaprimo.com
The Loft on the Square
These guest suites in downtown Magnolia can be found in the old Columbia County Bank, which dates back to 1892. Rooms are conveniently located above some of the historic square’s must-visit shops and boutiques. theloftsq.com
Main Street Pizza
Head to the corner of Main and Jackson streets in El Dorado for specialty pizzas, hot sub sandwiches, cold beer on tap, and, on select nights, live music and comedy shows. facebook.com/MainStreetPizzaElDo
Murphy Arts District
Since it opened in 2017, El Dorado’s Murphy Arts District has quickly become the place to be in South Arkansas. You’ll find live music and entertainment at various venues—including an outdoor amphitheater—as well as a playscape and splash pad perfect for kiddos. eldomad.com
Murphy’s Jewelers
Founded in 1939, Murphy’s Jewelers is your go-to in Magnolia for fine jewelry, gifts, décor, and entertaining pieces—all available in their downtown showroom. Need jewelry repair or engraving services? They offer those, too. murphysjewelers.com
PJs Coffee
Though this coffee spot originated in New Orleans, it has become a favorite for locals and visitors alike in need of a caffeine fix in downtown El Dorado. Specialty blends, including Zulu Blend and Southern Pecan, are available for purchase to brew at home, too. pjscoffee.com/eldorado
Painting by Little Rock artist Lauren Meredith on display at South Arkansas Arts Center.
South Arkansas Arts Center
This El Dorado center encompasses both visual and performing arts and offers rotating gallery exhibits, community theater productions, and classes. Its next theater production is Mamma Mia!, which opens July 16. saac-arts.org
Southern Threads
In addition to the latest trends in women’s apparel—including dresses, shoes, and accessories—this El Dorado boutique stocks a range of vintage-inspired T-shirts with a rock ’n’ roll edge. southernthreadsboutique.com
Spudnuts
These doughnut-like breakfast pastries made with potato flour are a South Arkansas staple—and they’re only available in El Dorado. Be sure to try them out next time you’re in this neck of the woods—or ask them to ship. spudnutshop.com
Colorful souvenirs from the region available at Southern Threads.
