Twenty-one years have passed since the Best of Texarkana™ idea was pitched to me from someone more visionary than I. My fear was to publish something that stated a particular business or person was the best in Texarkana would be more negative (for those not winning) than positive. Four States Living Magazine is all about positive! Personally, I like riding the fence, being Switzerland, not saying anything that would disappoint anybody. But the Best of Texarkana™ has been different. I honestly don’t have a say in anything other than what categories we will present to the voters. And my staff can’t vote. And we only accept one vote per device and have people who monitor that voting very closely (thank goodness for smart technology).
Some businesses promote this annual contest through their social media pages, mailers, and even by calling to ask customers to vote. Others don’t get as involved and still win. It has become bigger than I would have ever imagined (yes, I was a doubter in the beginning). People covet their nominations and love the ability to use the Best of Texarkana™ seal in their advertising for the next year.
I appreciate the new things Texarkana has to offer, and I love to see those older businesses be recognized for their consistent growth and dedication to quality.
We have lots of BESTS to be proud of in Texarkana. The results which follow do not represent my personal favorites (necessarily) nor my staff’s. We stay Switzerland in awarding the winners. Now, drumroll please, I am honored to present the voters’ choices for 2025.
Four States Living
The Best of Texarkana , a special edition of Four States Living Magazine, is an authoritative guide to all that’s great in Texarkana, U.S.A. The winners, chosen by the readers’ responses to ballots on fourstatesliving.com, have earned the trust and respect of their own customers and are all very worthy of displaying the Best of Texarkana™ seal for an entire year. Congratulations to the nominees and winners from all of the staff at Four States Living Magazine.
CONTENTS
EDITORIAL
GRAPHIC
BEST OF TEXARKANA™ 2025 READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
BEST BUILDER/ CONTRACTOR/ REMODELER
JASON EPPINETTE
Eppinette Construction
903-908-1044 | eppcotxk.com
Detail-oriented and talented, Jason Eppinette Construction provides full-service construction, renovation, and remodeling for those who are located in the Texarkana area. Eppinette Construction offers honest and reliable service for those who are interested in a home remodel, building a custom home, or anything in-between. Trust Jason, Kerry, and Ethan Eppinette and their crew to help you build a beautiful living space that suits your lifestyle and budget.
FINALISTS:
Kevin Browning (Browning Homes LLC)
Lynlee Harvey (Lynlee Builds)
Greg McKay (Greg McKay Construction)
Mike Rogers (Rogers Equipment & Construction)
BEST ATTORNEY
JOSHUA POTTER
Potter & Marks
870-335-3052 | texarklaw.com
Having grown up in a family of lawyers from Texarkana, Joshua Potter provides proven legal experience, insightful counsel, and personalized representation for clients. As a partner with Potter & Marks, Joshua’s commitment to representing clients with excellence has translated to his selection in the National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 and Superlawyers Rising Stars. An Eagle Scout, Joshua has professional affiliations with the Arkansas Bar Association, the Texarkana Bar Association, and the Southwest Arkansas Bar Association. Married to Rachael, they are proud parents to two girls, Alice and Elle.
FINALISTS:
Kyle Davis
Jason Horton
Brent Langdon
Eric Marks
BEST CATERER/CHEF
JEFF LOVING
Chef on the Run
903-276-8081 | cheffreyontherun.com
Personal chef Jeff Loving has had thirty years of experience in catering, owning restaurants, and cheffing for parties and events. Jeff’s attention to detail is second to none. Jeff can often be found working private parties, special events, weddings, classes, and catering in the home. A talent for sure, Jeff offers a gourmet experience for each and every client who uses him as a chef. It’s no wonder the voters voted him #1.
FINALISTS:
Wendy Hadden ( PATAcakes Catering & More)
Cory House (Texas High School Culinary Arts Academy)
Julie’s Deli and Market - Catering
Marjorie Slimer Moczygemba (Marj Is Munchin)
BEST DESIGNER/DECORATOR
BRYAN CALLAWAY
MerchantHouse Interiors
903-949-659
facebook.com/MerchantHouseInterior
Bryan Callaway is a talent where interior design and landscape architecture are concerned. Bryan has a degree in Architectural Landscape Design, but he has a thriving business in Interior Design and is well-known for his edge and style in Texarkana. Always working to keep the clients’ style at the top of his mind, Bryan can envision their homes as they only dream. Several years ago, Bryan opened MerchantHouse, a beautiful store on Texas Boulevard, filled with interior design pieces. Merchant House Design Center came later in 2023. With these businesses, bryan can incorporate his skills of decorating with the most cutting edge hardware, tile, flooring, and wallpaper.
FINALISTS:
Kyle Barrett (Barrett Bergmann Home)
Jeff Brown (J Brown for the Home)
Jennifer Cole (J. Cole Design, LLC)
Alicia Woodle (Alicia Woodle Designs)
MerchantHouse Interiors and Bryan Callaway provide cutting-edge design.
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT
SYDNEY WICKS
Better Homes & Gardens
Real Estate Infinity
903-306-1454
sellingtexarkana.com
Sydney Wicks is a highly accomplished real estate professional and one of Texarkana’s most trusted and top-producing agents. With years of experience and a reputation for excellence, she has built her career on a foundation of integrity and dedication. Whether working with first-time buyers, seasoned homeowners, or experienced investors, Sydney takes pride in guiding her clients through every step of the real estate process, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience.
FINALISTS:
Lauren Callaway
Teresa Leipman
Amber Gideon Stewart
Darla Wilf
BEST PET GROOMER
TAVO CRUZ
Paw Paw Patch
903-831-7387
Whether babysitting or grooming your precious fur children, Tavo Cruz always provides top-notch care for all of his clients. After all, “man’s best friend” deserves only the best treatment, and Tavo ensures that is happening.
FINALISTS:
Absolutely A Cut Above Georgia’s Pet Salon & Boutique PetSmart Grooming Westridge Animal Hospital Grooming
BEST PEDIATRICIAN
DR. RACHEL KING
King Medical Clinic
870-898-KING (5464) | kingmd.org
Dr. Rachel King, of King Medical Clinic in Ashdown, Arkansas, is board certified in Internal Medicine as well as Pediatrics. A 2005 graduate of the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences, Dr. King spent several years at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Dr. King is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a member of the American College of Physicians. With both adult and pediatric training, Dr. King enjoys being able to take care of the whole family in the community where she grew up. Parents drive from all over the four states area for Dr. Rachel King to see their children.
FINALISTS:
Dr. Robert Clark Green
Dr. Christina Payne
Dr. Cindy Porter
Dr. Cheryl Saul-Sehy
BEST ARTIST
DARLENE TAYLOR
Darlene Taylor Murals
903-417-4954
facebook.com/darlenetaylormurals
An incredibly talented mural artist and costume designer, Darlene Taylor’s business cards read, “Have brush; will travel.” And travel she does. Darlene stays busy most days painting murals across various state lines. Many of her colorful murals can be found throughout Texarkana, but Darlene paints anywhere she is called. Recently, Darlene completed a mural honoring Otis Williams, founder and musician of The Temptations, in downtown Texarkana.
FINALISTS:
Tyler S. Arnold
Mary Jane Orr
Joseph Raymond
Joel Wright
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER
MAKAYLA JONES
Makayla Jones Photography
903-293-3147
Makala Jones Photography on Facebook
Makayla Jones is a true talent behind the camera. Whether she is working on family photographs, maternity shots, or those once-in-a-lifetime wedding memories, Makayla prides herself on being professional while making her subjects feel comfortable and at-home in front of her lens.
FINALISTS:
Cristi Hoyt (Cristi Hoyt Photography)
Journey Lynn (Journey Lynn Photography)
Kendal Dockery (Kendal Dockery Photography)
Tiffany Griffin (Three Moons Photography)
BEST FAMILY DOCTOR
DR. SHAWN STUSSY, MD
Family Medical Group
903-831-6848 | fmgoftexarkana.com
He’s a hunter, a family man and an avid Razorbacks fan, but to his patients, he’s the best!
Dr. Shawn Stussy, with Family Medical Group, takes pride in giving 100% to each and every one of his patients. His easygoing nature can make the most uptight person feel at ease. A native of the Ark-La-Tex area, Dr. Stussy is married with four children and has been practicing in Texarkana since 1997.
FINALISTS:
Dr. Brittany Ackley (CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic)
Dr. Bryan Bowen (Family Medical Group)
Dr. Blane Graves (Collom & Carney Clinic)
Dr. Sam Nix (Total Access Health and Wellness)
BEST NURSE PRACTITIONER
CARA COOK, FNP
Family Medical Group 903-791-9120 | fmgoftexarkana.com
Cara Cook, FNP, is board certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Nurse Credentialing Center. Practicing in the Texarkana area since 2002, Cara has been with Family Medical Group since 2009. Married to David Cook, for 24 years, she has two children, Caroline and Payne.
FINALISTS:
Mandy Carter (Pulmonary Disease Medicine Clinic)
Brooke Fitts (U.S. Dermatology Partners)
Brandi Langdon (Collom & Carney Clinic)
Tara McElroy (Twin City Medical)
BUBBA’S 33
430-455-2437 | bubbas33.com
With a motto “More than a Restaurant, It’s an Experience,” Bubba’s 33 lives up to every idea that dining and fun can be combined to provide a fabulous outing for the family, a party, a date, or even solo. Bubba’s 33 is best known for their burgers, pizza, and beer (with over 21 different beers on tap), but everything on the menu is also exquisitely made from scratch. The Bubba’s 33 atmosphere is always lively, whether you choose to sit in the rock n’ roll–themed area, the sports section, or the area representing the country’s veterans.
FINALISTS:
Emmie P’s Bistro and Bakery
Maggie’s Suds Shop
That Vintage Vibe
Twin City Shaved Ice
BEST BODY SHOP
WRIGHT’S AUTO BODY & GLASS
903-838-8536 | wrightsautobodyandglass.com
When your car needs repairs, you shouldn’t have to deal with long waits or worries. When you bring your car to Wright’s Auto Body & Glass, you choose a top auto body shop serving the Texarkana area. Wright’s Auto Body & Glass has been in business since 1969. A family-owned and operated company with certifications from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair and the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, the Wright’s team offers quick, dependable repairs and replacements. Their industry knowledge has been passed down through three generations of family, so you can trust that your work will be done right.
FINALISTS:
Hadaway Collision
Haley’s Body Shop
Texarkana Auto Body Works
Twin City Collison
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY
BETTER HOMES & GARDEN
REAL ESTATE INFINITY
903-306-1454 | sellingtexarkana.com
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Infinity was born from a desire to offer a dynamic service that transcends the traditional real estate transaction. Employees with BHG Real Estate Infinity understand that people seek a lifestyle as much as they seek a home, and by partnering with Better Homes and Gardens®, this agency was able to offer a variety of services and perks that added value even after a sale is complete. Owner Teresa Liepman believes that Texarkana is a great place to live and is full of amazing people, businesses, and schools that do amazing things every day ... and it all starts with a home.
FINALISTS:
Century 21 All Points Realty
Elite Realty Group
PH Realty
RE/MAX Preferred
BEST GIFT SHOP
DREIDEL HOME + SUNDRY
903-556-2722 | dreidelhomeandsundry.com
The perfect gift shop needs to have something for everyone, and Dreidel home+sundry has something for everyone on your list, including home accents and baby apparel. Owners Cassidy and Price Lavender pride themselves on carrying over 15 local brands, including Lavender Thorne. Whether you prefer shopping online or in person, Dreidel has you covered.
FINALISTS:
Gables Gifts & Gratitudes
Ginger Junction
Give Me 3 - Your Gift Boutique Hart’s On Broad
RUTH’S FLOWERS 903-793-6711 | ruthsflowers.net
Ruth’s Flowers has been an iconic floral business on Texas Boulevard for many years. Passion and dedication inspire fresh flowers, live plants, and unique floral gifts for all occasions to customers and friends. Let Ruth’s design a lovely arrangement for you or your loved one. They even offer convenient online ordering 24 hours a day.
FINALISTS:
Fields of Flowers - Florist & Gift Shop
The Flowerroom Florist & Gifts
Pleasant Grove Florist Unique Flowers & Gifts
BEST BOUTIQUE
THE RANCHER’S WIFE BOUTIQUE
903-691-9675 | trwboutique.com
The Rancher’s Wife was established in 2013 in Terrell, Texas. At the time, the owner, Amy, was a rancher’s wife, so the name seemed fitting. Like most women, Amy loves fashion and all things girly. Even better, she loves finding a great deal while shopping. The number one focus of The Rancher’s Wife is offering customers good quality products without “breaking the bank!” Amy’s dream has gone from a one-woman show to a flourishing reality of four stores and a growing website. The Rancher’s Wife in Texarkana is located in Summerhill Square.
FINALISTS:
Apricot Lane Boutique
Luna Boutique
Noah Jade’s Boutique
Sweet Caroline’s Boutique
BEST JEWELER
CROCKER’S JEWELERS
903-832-8686 | crockersjewelers.com
If you are looking for a jeweler with a tradition of trust, high ethical standards, knowledge of jewelry products and services, fair pricing, and value to customers, look no further than Crocker’s Jewelers. Located in their beautiful building on St. Michael Drive, Crocker’s is committed to making every customer feel welcome and has served generations of families as their trusted jeweler for brilliant diamonds, elegant watches, treasured gifts, fine jewelry, custom made styles, and expert jewelry repairs.
FINALISTS:
Alexander’s Jewelers
Cooper Fine Jewelers
Micah’s Jewelers
Ray Harp Jewelers
BEST HOTEL
HILTON GARDEN INN
903-792-1065
facebook.com/HiltonGardenInnTexarkana
Off I-30, and connected to Texarkana Convention Center, Hilton Garden Inn is Texarkana’s premiere hotel in the four states area. Visitors to Texarkana enjoy so much about the Hilton Garden Inn, from its well decorated rooms to its fabulous amenities. Enjoy their restaurant, evening room service, and 24-hour convenience shop. Whether you are in Texarkana to tour the area, to shop, or for a convention or an event, you will be treated like royalty at Hilton Garden Inn in Texarkana.
FINALISTS:
Courtyard
Fairfield Inn & Suites
Holiday Inn Arkansas Convention Center
Residence Inn
BEST PLACE FOR BOTOX/FILLERS
LONESTAR HEALTH & WELLNESS
903-306-0838
lonestarhealthwellness.com
Samantha Harris, FNP-C, opened LoneStar Health & Wellness in 2019, offering aesthetic services that boost patients’ self-confidence and image. BOTOX and dermal fillers are the most common regular skin procedures that women seek; Samantha loves helping her patients find in-office ways to rejuvenate their skin, ease wrinkles, and turn back the hands of time using BOTOX and fillers. Skilled in injecting, a great reputation has earned Harris and all of the staff of LoneStar Health & Wellness a Best of Texarkana seal of approval.
FINALISTS:
Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetics & Day Spa
Forever Young at Dermatology Associates
ReNew Integrated Medical Spa
SkinRNs
BEST FLOORING SPECIALIST
THE DESIGN CENTER AT RED RIVER LUMBER
903-793-0038 | redriverlumber.com
Founded in 1992, Red River Lumber is locally-owned and operated. In their Design Center, they carry a large assortment of flooring from some of the most prominent manufacturers in the industry. Their flooring lineup includes brands such as Karndean, Marazzi, Daltile, and Shaw. They stock carpet, ceramic tile, porcelain tile, hardwood flooring, and laminate flooring. Visit the Design Center to see all of the options for a part of the home that is used every day: the flooring.
FINALISTS:
The Carpet Shoppe
Carter Adams Flooring, LLC
Light House & Flooring
Tally Alley Carpet Warehouse
BEST HAIR SALON
FRINGE HAIR & BEAUTY HOUSE
903-791-8106 | fringetxk.com
For 10 years, Fringe Hair & Beauty House has offered a warm and welcoming salon atmosphere for stylists and clients alike. Owner Reala Jo Ward and her team of Fringe Fillies offer a place for clients to relax and unwind. They love to “sling awesome hair,” have a rousing fun time, and talk as much smack as they can. Visit Fringe, and see why voters selected it the Best Hair Salon.
FINALISTS:
The Beauty BAR TXK Campell & Co.
The Emmanuel Collective Salt & Light Hair Co.
BEST LANDSCAPING
FREEMAN LANDSCAPE
903-908-2883 | freemantxk.com
Locally-owned and -operated by the Freeman family, Freeman Landscape’s team can take care of all of your landscaping needs. Honest and reliable, they provide commercial and residential landscaping as well as pergolas, patios, concrete resurfacing, decks, fences, ponds, and kitchens. They can even create a customized design plan for your yard to help you visualize what your new yard can look like. For all of your outdoor living needs, visit with Freeman Landscape’s experienced professionals. They will do the planning and the planting for you!
FINALISTS: Beacon Landscapes
H&N Landscaping and Nursery
Lawn Rescue
U.S. Lawns
BEST ROOFER
TONY LANGFORD ROOFING
903-701-5440
facebook.com/ tonylangfordroofing
Tony Langford Roofing & Construction has been building a customer following for several decades. Owner Tony Langford is committed to doing excellent work and giving back to Texarkana, the community where he is based. As a business owner, youth coach, and friend, Tony works hard to be the best in his field. Langford Roofing & Construction uses the latest materials and workmanship to provide quality roofing for residential and commercial jobs.
FINALISTS:
Bohon Roofing
Hargrove Roofing
Near Me Roofing & Contracting
R.B.T. Roofing
BEST DENTAL CLINIC
EAGLE DENTAL CENTER
903-794-9974 | eagledentaltxk.com
Eagle Dental Center, located on Moores Lane, prides itself on providing a professional dental team who will take care of their patients’ needs and listen to their concerns. The professionals at Eagle are committed to making sure your experiences in their dental chairs are pleasant and as comfortable as possible. The staff understands that your smile is your biggest asset, so they want to provide the best treatment available.
FINALISTS:
Mark Addington DDS
Castle Family Dental
Lippian Family Dentistry
Pleasant Grove Family Dentistry
BEST FURNITURE STORE
FOUR STATES FURNITURE
903-223-4506
fourstatesfurniture.com
A family-owned and community-oriented business, Four States Furniture provides quality home furnishings, partnering with over 50 of the top brands of furniture, mattresses, and home accents in the industry. Completely reimagined in 2022, Four States Furniture was remodeled and rebranded to best serve the community. With top notch designers on staff, shoppers will get help finding quality heirlooms to last a lifetime.
FINALISTS:
Ashley’s Furniture HomeStore
Full House Furniture
Lafferty’s Home Center
MerchantHouse
BEST LAW FIRM
LANGDON DAVIS LAW FIRM
903-223-3246 | ldatty.com
Brent Langdon and his partner Kyle Davis, along with their associates, can be found representing clients before a judge on most days of the week. Their attorneys know the Texas and Arkansas court systems and are well respected by local judges, prosecutors, and court personnel in both states.
FINALISTS:
Norton + Wood
Potter & Marks, PLLC
Ross & Shoalmire, PLLC
Trammell Piazza Law Firm
BEST PIZZA
LOST PIZZA CO.
903-716-9568 | lostpizza.com
Lost Pizza has become the voters’ favorite place to dine in, eat on the patio, or grab a pie to-go. Wondering what the secret is? Owners say it’s the dough—made fresh from scratch every single day using only the best ingredients. And, they also brag on the sauces—made fresh daily using secret recipes. The veggies—they use only the freshest produce available, and it’s all sliced fresh every morning. They only serve the finest quality meat toppings, and the cheese is a custom blend of all-natural house cheese and the highest quality available. It’s aged perfectly without the use of preservatives or additives. Maybe that’s why it tastes so good the voters chose it as #1. Located on Gibson Lane, Jenny and Patrick Wilder opened Lost Pizza Co.’s Texarkana location on July 14, 2022. With quirky décor, a fun atmosphere, and scrumptious pizza, sandwiches, pasta, and salads, Lost Pizza’s dining experience is one you won’t easily forget, so do yourself a favor; go get “lost” today and see what all the hype is about!
FINALISTS:
Gusano’s Chicago-Style Pizzeria
Joe’s Italian Bistro - Downtown Redbone Magic Brewing Co. Underground Pizza Company
BEST LUNCH
IRONWOOD GRILL
903-223-4644 | ironwoodgrill.com
Casual and comfortable, Ironwood Grill opened for business in the fall of 2005. With a beautiful blend of iron and wood showcased throughout the restaurant, Ironwood provides a casual, chic dining experience. From delicious appetizers and carefully concocted cocktails to hand-tossed sandwiches, steaks, and chicken and waffles, Ironwood’s menu accommodates a wide range of culinary requests. Whether a day date with your mom or a business lunch, Ironwood Grill is the place that voters say is best for your lunch hour!
FINALISTS:
Café Lucille
Hopkins Icehouse
Julie’s Deli & Market
Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery
BEST PLACE TO TAKE AN OUT-OF-TOWN GUEST IRONWOOD GRILL 903-223-4644 | ironwoodgrill.com
If you want to impress someone, the best place to take an out of town guest is to Ironwood Grill. With fabulous cocktails and a menu with something for everyone, your party can sit and enjoy your meal on a lovely patio area or in the dining room. Friendly servers will have your out-of-towners looking into more to do in Texarkana, so they can eat at Ironwood again!
FINALISTS:
Benchmark American Brasserie
Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery
Pop’s Place
Zapata Grill Mexican Cantina
BEST SWEETS
JULIE’S DELI & MARKET
903-792-3354 | juliesdeli.com
Monday through Saturday, if you are having a craving for something sweet, swing through Summerhill Square and head into Julie’s Deli. Made from scratch every day, Julie’s has cookies, cupcakes, seasonal pies, and the most divine cakes, ready to go home with the person needing a cake. Julie’s bakery staff is also well-known for their special-occasion desserts, so check them out before you trust a special cake to a grocery store.
FINALISTS:
Taste & See
Cake House
Cakes by Carrie
Graham Slam Bakery
BEST BURGER
TLC BURGERS & FRIES
870-773-9316
facebook.com/TLCBurgers
A downtown Texarkana landmark known for its wonderful burgers and fries, TLC serves up the juiciest hamburgers, spiciest fresh-cut fries (don’t forget the sand on top), and delectable pies. A popular and always busy lunch spot, the atmosphere is relaxed and fun! On your way out the door, check out the Dr. Pepper mural on the side of their building or be photographed beside the depiction of Texarkana native Corrinne Griffith, one of the first silent film actresses to ever receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
FINALISTS:
Bubba’s 33
Flying Burger & Seafood
Old Tyme Burger Shoppe
Wayback Burgers
BEST COCKTAILS
ZAPATA GRILL MEXICAN CANTINA
870-774-0272
Looking for the perfect place with a full bar to find a great drink in the Texarkana area? Whether it is their famous frozen margaritas or a delicious Cuba Libre, Zapata Grill Mexican Cantina, in historic downtown Texarkana, has the drinks to wet your whistle. Zapata also has a happy hour daily for patrons.
FINALISTS:
Benchmark American Brasserie Hopkins Icehouse
Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery
Twisted Fork Grill & Lounge
BEST STEAK
TEXAS ROADHOUSE
903-223-8444
texasroadhouse.com
Texas Roadhouse boasts in its advertisements that they have the best ribs, but our voters also decided that the best steaks in Texarkana come from Texas Roadhouse. Aged to perfection and cooked to order, the steaks at Texas Roadhouse make dinner a good ol’ cowboy’s dream. Whether you choose filets, ribeyes, or sirloins, these steaks are like nothing you have ever tasted. Stop by and see why Texas Roadhouse has been voted Best Steak in the Best of Texarkana contest for the past 21 years!
Café Lucille offers a varied menu of fresh breakfast, lunch, and dinner fare. They have already become known for their unique brunch menu, which is offered six days a week until 2 p.m. Café Lucille is located at 306 Main Street in downtown Texarkana. Their hours of operation are Tuesday through Sunday, until 2 p.m. Check out Café Lucille on Facebook for new specials and restaurant events.
FINALISTS:
Emmie P’s Bistro and Bakery
Hopkins Icehouse
Julie’s Deli and Market
Verona Restaurant
BEST BBQ
NAAMAN’S
903-826-2827 | naamansbbq.com
Naaman’s Championship BBQ offers delectable brisket, steaks, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, and chicken. Pair your meat with one of Naaman’s signature homemade sides and your taste buds will thank you! Owner Darby Neaves’s motto is, “If we serve it, we made it!” Set in a rustic building with great antiques and mounted animals throughout, a Naaman’s experience will leave you with a satisfying BBQ meal and lots to discuss. If you are there on a weekend, you will likely see Darby running the kitchen, along with his right hand son, Naaman, for whom the restaurant is named (also an award winning pitmaster like his dad). Try them out, and see for yourself!
FINALISTS:
Big Jake’s BBQ
Blue Ember Smokehouse
Silver Star Smokehouse
Texas Roadhouse
BEST PATIO DINING
POP’S PLACE
870-773-4887 | facebook.com/pops.place.1
Winter, summer, spring, or fall, you can sit on the patio at Pop’s Place during ALL of the seasons. The patio at Pop’s is spread out, so nobody feels like they are dining on top of another table. There’s sometimes trivia on the patio, or music entertaining the people who love to see the trees and enjoy the fans, while being served one of the most divine meals to be found in Texarkana. Pop’s Place is not “on the beaten path,” but it is definitely worth finding, a couple of miles out of town. You will love their frozen drinks, cold beer, and specialty menu that is like nothing else in Texarkana. Again, worth the drive, and you might see a little wildlife around the patio if you are paying attention.
BEST MEXICAN FOOD
LOCA LUNA MEXICAN GRILL
903-306-0531 | localunamexicangrill.com
Loca Luna offers a vast array of delicious Mexican cuisine. Since opening their first restaurant on Moores Lane, they have opened several other sister restaurants, also Mexican in nature, in Texarkana. A popular eating establishment, Loca Luna serves tacos, burritos, fajitas, and enchiladas with the finest ingredients. Don’t forget to add a margarita to your order, as the servers highly recommend them!
FINALISTS:
Amigo Juan Mexican Cafe
Casa Carlos Mexican Grill
TaMolly’s Mexican Kitchen
Zapata Grill Mexican Cantina
FINALISTS: Café Lucille
Hopkins Icehouse
Ironwood Grill
Redbone Magic Brewing Co.
BEST CHARITY EVENT
ALZHEIMER’S ALLIANCE TRI-STATE AREA’S TWICE AS FINE WINE FESTIVAL 903-223-8021 | texarkanawinefestival.com
A wine, art, music, and food festival for the four states area, the Twice as Fine Texarkana Wine Festival is a one-of-its-kind festival. Targeting wine and food enthusiasts, this event brings in thousands of visitors every year as wineries across the state of Texas, as well as merchants and businesses, gather at one location in Spring Lake Park to taste, shop, and revel. Music and crafts are also a part of the mix, so join the Alzheimer’s Alliance Tri-State Area as they celebrate year 10!
FINALISTS:
Jeans & Bling (Hospice of Texarkana)
Mistletoe Market (Junior League of Texarkana)
Singo for a Cause (Chambers Home Health)
Taste of Texarkana (Harvest Regional Food Bank)
BEST NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
HARVEST REGIONAL FOOD BANK
870-774-1398
harvestregionalfoodbank.org
Harvest Regional Food Bank has helped feed Northeast Texas and Southwest Arkansas families for over 30 years. They accept and distribute food that is served at local food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, schools, and other agencies that provide hunger relief. They also have many opportunities available for those who want to help (through donations or volunteering) and for those who want to host a food drive or special event for the food bank. Harvest is dedicated to working toward making the region one where people don’t ever have to be hungry.
FINALISTS:
For The Sake Of One Junior League of Texarkana Texarkana Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) We Are Washington
BEST CREDIT UNION
RED RIVER CREDIT UNION
903-793-7681 | rrcu.com
A premier financial institution, Red River Credit Union offers membership loans, deposit accounts, and financial services to meet every need. Memberships are available to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in the service area. RRCU prides itself that every member is an owner in the credit union. Online banking, convenient locations, overdraft protection, and credit and debit cards are just a few of the reasons that Texarkana residents voted Red River Credit Union best in the area for 17 years in a row.
FINALISTS:
Domino Federal Credit Union
MilWay Federal Credit Union
TEXAR Federal Credit Union
Texarkana Terminal Federal Credit Union
BEST BANK
FARMERS BANK & TRUST
903-791-0490 | myfarmers.bank
Farmers Bank & Trust prides itself on honor, excellence, adaptability, respect, and teamwork. The bank keeps its core values at the center of relationships with their employees, customers, and community.
Known as the place for “Banking with Heart,” Farmers’ officers and employees help their friends and neighbors find financial solutions for a lifetime. Go by one of the Farmers Bank & Trust branches and see why they were voted #1 Best Bank. You might even run into former Texarkana, Texas, mayor James Bramlett, who now serves as the Farmers Bank & Trust Texarkana market president.
BEST DOWNTOWN DESTINATION
ZAPATA GRILL MEXICAN CANTINA
870-774-0272
Located in a historic building in downtown Texarkana, Zapata Grill offers a vast menu of Mexican cuisine, while serving the best margaritas found anywhere in the four states area. Breathing life into the heart of downtown Texarkana, Zapata is packed throughout the week, a true testament to its great following.
FINALISTS:
Hopkins Icehouse
Pecan Point Gastropub & Brewery
The Perot Theatre
Verona Restaurant
BEST PLACE FOR LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
REDBONE MAGIC BREWING
903-306-0822 | redbonemagic.com
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If you are an adult looking to have FUN, there is no other place you should go! Debbie and Roger Sheppard had an overarching goal that went along with opening their first restaurant and brewery: they wanted to “Make Texarkana Fun Again.” Truly, Tuesday through Sunday of every week, Roger and Debbie can be found entertaining guests on the patio, showcasing their homebrew, and Roger will often do magic tricks to keep tables amazed. Whether you want to do Karaoke Thursday or Trivia Wednesday, or see the best live music every weekend, you are in for a treat at Redbone Magic Brewing. On a sunny day, you can even have your pet out on the patio while you catch a jam session. True to their word, the Sheppards are making Texarkana fun!
FINALISTS:
1923 Banana Club Crossties
Fat Jacks Oyster and Sports Bar Hopkins Icehouse
FINALISTS:
Blessing Tree Farm
Garrison Gardens Ramage Farm Weddings Tree Haven
Four Fifteen Estates, owned by Shelby and Caleb Stephens, is a beautiful, 50-acre, countryside wedding venue in New Boston, Texas. Every detail has been meticulously contemplated by this couple, who married in 2017 and got busy in the wedding industry very soon after. From a pictureperfect chapel to a gorgeous celebration hall, every bride’s wishlist is covered at Four Fifteen Estates.
BEST INSURANCE AGENCY
KELLI ASHBROOK STATE FARM
903-223-8100 | kelliashbrook.com
Kelli Ashbrook and her team of insurance specialists help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. Whether you are searching for auto insurance, homeowner’s insurance, renter’s insurance, life insurance, or business/commercial insurance throughout the Texarkana, Texas, and Texarkana, Arkansas, area, give Kelli Ashbrook a call and see why voters keep choosing her as their favorite year after year!
FINALISTS:
Justin Magness State Farm
Mims Farmers Insurance
Peek Insurance Agency
Texas Farm Bureau
BEST PLACE TO WORK
TEXARKANA INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
903-794-3651 | txdisd.net
TISD carries out its mission of providing a superior education in a caring environment that inspires, challenges, and engages each of its students through a wide range of opportunities. With a belief that all children are capable of success, TISD employs caring and compassionate educators and support staff who inspire their students to believe in themselves. Texarkana is fortunate to have such a great school district that provides quality educators a place to work and prepare students for the future.
FINALISTS:
CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System
Farmers Bank & Trust
Pleasant Grove Independent School District
Total Medical Supply, Inc.
BEST PLACE FOR KIDS TO PLAY
GJUMP TRAMPOLINE PARK & ADVENTURE SPORTS
903-705-1230 | gjumpusa.com
If you are looking for a first-class, indoor facility to take the kids, GJump on St. Michael Drive is the place to go. They provide trampolines, air bags, dodgeball courts, basketball hoops, competitive style ninja courses and much more. Their private rooms are available for birthday parties or meetings, and the full-service café features snacks. A parent lounge with free Wi-Fi is even available so the adults can sit back and relax while the kiddos are having fun. The kids love GJump, and their parents do, too!
FINALISTS:
Bringle Lake Park
Holiday Bowl Entertainment
Spring Lake Park
Chick-fil-A Richmond Road
BEST PRESCHOOL WILLIAMS
SCHOOL
903-838-9517 | facebook.com/williamspreschool
Managed by Lorie Son, The Williams School has evolved over many years into a premier day school for children up to five years old. In a Christian setting, children are taught age-appropriate curriculum by trained preschool teachers. Limited class sizes make learning more individualized. A first rate organization, parents need to stay on the Williams School radar and get on a waiting list as soon as they may be interested, as classes fill quickly every year.
FINALISTS:
First Baptist Weekday Preschool
Learning Station Child Development Center
Red Lick Christian Preschool
Training Station Child Development Center
BEST PLACE TO GET PAMPERED
ETERNAL BEAUTY MEDICAL
AESTHETICS & DAY SPA
903-278-9566
eternalbeautytexarkana.com
Eternal Beauty Medical Aesthetics & Day Spa offers clients a carefully balanced regimen of aesthetic and clinical care. Elizabeth Jacobsen and her staff of trained professionals consult with clients to devise just the right treatment – whether it’s float water therapy, IV infusions, facials, massages, Botox, or simply helping choose the latest skin care products. Eternal Beauty offers a full-range of medical spa services and is a favorite of both FSLM readers and Texarkana patrons.
FINALISTS:
Age Management & Aesthetics by HealthCARE Express
Beauty & Wellness Center
LoneStar Aesthetics & Wellness
ReNew Integrated Medical Spa
BEST EMERGENCY CARE
TEXARKANA EMERGENCY
CENTER & HOSPITAL
903-838-8000
texarkanaemergencycenter.com
Locally owned and operated by board-certified emergency physicians, Texarkana Emergency Center and Hospital is open 365 days of the year for adult and pediatric care. The difference is in the wait times. This emergency room prides itself on being patient-focused first and faster than the others. With a full clinical lab and state-of-the-art CT scan, MRI, X-ray, and ultrasound, faster care in an emergency is better care.
FINALISTS:
CHRISTUS St. Michael Emergency Center
Exceed Health Clinic
HealthCARE Express Urgent Care
SignatureCare Emergency Center
BEST TITLE COMPANY
TWIN CITY TITLE
903-793-7671 | twincitytitle.com
Title companies work to protect clients from financial loss resulting from unknown judgments and liens, unlawful transfers, issues within a property’s title, and applications of fraud in a real estate closing. Buyers, sellers, real estate agents, homebuilders, and financial institutions work with Twin City Title every day for residential, commercial, and land transactions. Twin City Title provides the title insurance and related real estate closing services for the celebratory part of a closing transaction. Locally owned since 1981, Twin City Title is committed to being the best in their industry.
FINALISTS:
Capital Title
Miller County Abstract & Title Southwest Title Company Stewart Title of Texarkana
