“The butternut squash enchiladas are absolutely amazing.”
David Johnson ®
Tavola Trattoria
“The Caprese Tavola’s fresh flavors are simply irresistible.”
Brooke Sanders-Tennant ®
Blu Fish House
“Lunch or dinner, best sushi in town.”
Heather Campbell ®
Pedaler’s Pub
“I love their spinach dip and pizza.”
Amy Sealy ®
Wrights Barbecue
“Best brisket in the State.”
Andrew Drake ®
Taco & Tamale Co.
“Atmosphere, tamales, and margaritas are always a vibe.”
Meghan Thompson ®
Bentonville: A Culinary Corner of The Ozarks
Bentonville intrigues talented professionals at the top of their game in every industry - one of the most notable being culinary creatives. From staples like Wright’s BBQ to new offerings like Junto Sushi, and everything in between, there’s no doubt that our taste buds should be thankful.
What inspires Bentonville's secret recipe?
Maybe it’s the active community? Stops like Pedaler's Pub and the HUB Bike Lounge - where you’re welcome in dirty cleats and a sweaty jersey - are perfect for mid-ride refuel. Bar Cleeta's New York Style dining and Airship's trailside brews are perfect for a post-ride meetup. And Oh Snap! Ice Cream offers a sweet indulgence after pickleball in the park.
Maybe it’s the arts? Wednesdays Over Water at Crystal Bridges offers a culinary experience, curated by the chefs at Eleven, worthy of the artworks that inspire its dishes. The Tower Bar's craft cocktails and mocktails make an ideal pairing for your bird's eye view of the public art on The Momentary grounds. The vibrant murals of 8th Street Marketplace beautifully blend with the delicious flavors crafted by its award-winning restaurants.
Like any great dish, there’s no single ingredient to credit. The dining scene in Bentonville is a reflection of its community. The allure of this special place makes people want to do special things–like launching innovative bar and dining concepts. In this issue we’ll highlight just a few of our favorites. Feast with your eyes, then make your reservations. Bon appétit!
WYATT LAYMAN, PUBLISHER @BENTONVILLECITYLIFESTYLE
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Wyatt Layman | wyatt.layman@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Michelle Bazis | michelle.bazis@citylifestyle.com
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
Credit to Alex Villar Photography
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
The Opening Celebration of Junto Sushi and Bar Kapu at the new Motto Hotel in Downtown Bentonville. Photos by Michelle Bazis.
Fall OPEN HOUSE
OCTOBER 10, 1-6 PM
Get ready to pamper your skin at the Premier skin-loving bash of the season - Fall Open House. Dive into the world of skincare trends, products, and treatments alongside our friendly experts. From injectables to facials, lasers, and custom skincare routines, we've got you covered! Meet our awesome team, snag expert advice, and score some exclusive event-only deals. Mark your calendar for a day of skin-loving goodness - get ready to glow!
Mertins Eye & Optical at The Ledger is Now Open
Mertins Eye & Optical has opened its newest premier optometry clinic and optical boutique in Downtown Bentonville. Providing expert eye care and handcrafted luxury eyewear, schedule an appointment and visit their beautiful space located in the breezeway of the Ledger building. 240 S Main St. Bentonville, AR • MertinsEye.com
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Oz Charter Launches Helicopter and Heli Biking Service from Thaden Field
Just in time for fall, Oz Charter now offers helicopter services and heli biking from Thaden Field. Experience the seasonal beauty of the Ozarks from above while enjoying the convenience of a private charter to some of Arkansas’ most remote hiking and biking trails. Visit Thaden Field today to learn more. 2205 SW I St, Bentonville, AR • ThadenField.com
Bentonville’s First XFormer Pilates Studio! We offer clients an elevated workout experience that sculpts, strengthens, and tones using the next-generation of Pilates Reformer machines.
Our challenging workouts are designed to build strength, core stability, balance and flexibility through dynamic, Pilates-inspired movement. San’s unique methodology integrates holistic elements such as breathwork, mind-body connection, binaural beats, and stretching for a full-body, low-impact workout. Through this integrated approach, each class journey is designed to cultivate power from within.
At san studio you will:
Experience powerful results, inside and out
Expect improved strength, tone, flexibility, and overall vitality Leave feeling balanced and connected to yourself
We also invite you to shop at our curated boutique featuring contemporary activewear, athleisure and loungewear from brands including Beyond Yoga, Splits59, Bandier, Varley, Naghedi and Annabel Ingall, as well as other health & wellness products.
Bentonville City Lifestyle readers will receive 20% OFF their first Credit Pack or First Month’s Membership! Use the code BCL20 at checkout.
Scan to read more
Photography by Mertins Eye & Optical
Photography by Thaden Field & Charters
3 4 5
FRESH & eateries BARS
NUMBER 1: HARDWATER
A neighborhood gathering spot with decadent cocktails, small plates, and eclectic interiors. Hardwater's menu, like its atmosphere, is infused with artistic energy. @HardwaterBentonville
New restaurants and creative cocktail spaces to entertain your palette.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE BAZIS
NUMBER 2: JUNTO SUSHI
Junto boasts a Japanese-inspired menu, including seasonal small plates and chef specialties, alongside an extensive list of traditional sushi, sashimi, and nigiri. @JuntoSushi
NUMBER 3: LOVELESS COCKTAIL CLUB
A "vaguely vintage" cocktail bar where listening is as fun as tasting. Serving tasty drinks, fresh vinyl, and hot dogs with a uniquely epic ambiance. @LovelessCocktailClub
NUMBER 4: BAR KAPU
A laid back bar serving tropical drinks and an elevated menu of Southeast Asian inspired small plates and finger foods. @BarKapu
NUMBER 5: MEZZALUNA PASTERIA
Italian cuisine crafted to perfection by Chef Soerke. Visit the new Mezzaluna Pasteria for mouthwatering pastas, fresh mozzarella, and creamy gelato. @MezzalunaPasteria
Inspiration for your best local life.
Exclusive giveaways.
Hidden gem alert!
Good news in your neighborhood.
Local content by local creators.
Inside scoop on all things local.
Locally-inspired food & drink recipes.
W H A T I S M Y H O M E W O R T H ?
FALL BEER PAIRINGS
Social Project Co. Brews To Enhance Signature Autumn Experiences
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE BAZIS
As you embrace the long awaited autumn breeze, and the sounds of crunching leaves and crackling bonfires becomes your evening soundtrack, there’s no better brew to enhance your fireside experience than Social Project’s Sweet Dreams Stout. Its cinnamon roll flavors, including cream cheese frosting and cinnamon sticks, will have you melting into fall’s bonfire nights feeling content and cozy. "It'll taste like you're drinking a liquified cinnamon roll,” says Owner, Chris Spence. “Our stouts are brewed to have a full, thicker creamier body."
Following weeks of costume planning and hours of chaperoning mini princesses and superheroes in search of the perfect candy prize, the kids are fast asleep and you’re about to enjoy your secret Halloween ritual. Tiptoeing to the candy stash, you make your sugary selection, but not before grabbing the perfect beverage to pair with your secret sweet: Social Project’s Darkshines Sour. This black currant and vanilla sour will have you feeling like a kid again.
Tailgating is a quintessential fall experience, where the rituals of grilling and gathering becomes a generational tradition that runs deep. While the sounds of marching bands and chanting crowds fill the background, and the aroma of sizzling burgers and smoky ribs fills the air, it’s time to pour a glass of the good stuff: Social Project’s Czechmate Lager. According to Spence, Czechmate is a heavier lager that pairs well with meat and has enough full flavor that you can enjoy a few without losing interest.
1. BONFIRE NIGHTS - SWEET DREAMS
2. TRICK OR TREATING - DARKSHINES SOUR
3. TAILGATING - CZECHMATE
4. FALL HIKE - HAZE-TOBERFEST
A fall hike in the Ozark Mountains is a feast for the senses. The vibrant autumn leaves create a breathtaking mosaic of reds, oranges, and golds against rugged landscapes and expansive views.As you embark on one of Arkansas’ iconic fall adventures, enjoying the woodsy smells and crisp air, be sure to pack Social Project’s HAZE-TOBERFEST. “This is our uniquely American take on the amazing German Oktoberfest ritual,” Spence said. “This double hazy will be full in flavor with a little residual sweetness, and remain incredibly drinkable just like its German counterparts.”
5. COZY FALL VIBES - 3500 MILES TO LIMA
As the sticky heat of Arkansas' summer fades, the arrival of cooler temperatures is a welcome embrace. We're all ready to put on our soft layers, watch movies by the fire, and enjoy the comforting smells of our favorite seasonal treats like pumpkin pie and caramel apples. As you settle in to those iconic fall cozies, grab one of Social Project's seasonal IPA's. "3500 Miles to Lima is an International collab with our friends at Two Broders in Lima Peru! It's full bodied, and thicker, with a lot of flavor."
ARTICLE
AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE BAZIS
bentonville BEST MOCKTAILS IN
COMPLEX COCKTAIL FLAVOR WITHOUT THE ALCOHOL
While one doesn't need a reason to avoid alcohol, the sober curiosity trend is gaining traction. Whatever their reason, more and more patrons are interested in socializing sober, and instead of simple sodas or non-alcoholic beers and wines, mindful establishments are accommodating with creativity. For sober solutions without sacrificing the craft cocktail experience, visit one of these Bentonville cocktail bars for a top notch mocktail.
"Bar Kapu's Hibiscus Seedlip Spice mocktail tastes like Thanksgiving in Hawaii."
CONIFER
Rif Raf : This mocktail has all the flavors your palate desires when transitioning into the fall season. At first sip, you'll notice the bitter sweetness of grapefruit before the flavor shifts with a subtle spice thanks to the pink peppercorn.
HARDWATER
Sunset Spritz: Bright and refreshing, this is the perfect mocktail to entertain. Not too sweet, and not too complex, Hardwater's Sunset Spritz is bold enough to keep you interested and smooth enough to sip all evening.
BAR KAPU
Hibiscus Seedlip Spice: According to the waitstaff, Bar Kapu will always offer exciting, non-alcoholic options for patrons because, "We never want alcohol to get in the way of our guests enjoying their experience." This mocktail is floral and spicy; perfect for fall sipping from Bar Kapu's indoor-outdoor space. Our publisher and his wife described this drink perfectly: It tastes like if Thanksgiving were in spring.
TOWER BAR
Spikey & Spicey: The Tower Bar might possess Bentonville's most robust mocktail menu - both in options and complexity - including this multidimensional sipper featuring citrus fruits, cucumber, and Thai chili extract.
LADY SLIPPER
Designated Driver : Sweet, spicy, or sour? Lady Slipper caters to your palate preferences with this simplified, but nonetheless satisfying, non-alcoholic cocktail. If you're feeling adventurous, ask your bartender to craft something spontaneous using your favorite flavors for inspiration.
Hardwater Cocktail
EXPERIENCE MOTTO HOTEL'S junto sushi and bar kapu
THESE DYNAMIC DINING ADDITIONS CELEBRATE FLAVOR AND PRIORITIZE EXPERIENCE
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHELLE BAZIS
The opening celebration of Junto Sushi and Bar Kapu was an evening of flavorful diversity. Located within the new and highly anticipated Motto Hotel in Downtown Bentonville, the refreshing additions were received with eager eyes and curious taste buds. While touring the new dining, lounge, and hospitality spaces, guests were treated to samplings from Junto and Bar Kapu’s dynamic menus along with signature cocktail and mocktail selections.
Flowing left of Motto’s lobby entrance, Junto exudes a casual elegance perfect for an evening near the square. The restaurant’s open concept allows guests to enjoy views of the sushi bar while its organic furnishings and dim lighting set the tone for an intimate dining experience. At Junto, guests can expect seasonal small plates, traditional sushi, and specialties from renowned Chef Masa Hamaya.
Where Junto’s sharp style complements its complex tastes, Bar Kapu’s vibrant personality matches its invigorating flavors. The tiki concept is thoughtfully executed featuring tropical colors and textures, while the infectious energy of its staff pairs perfectly with its staycation ambiance. Complete with an indoor-outdoor space designed for sipping in the sun or under the stars, Bar Kapu visitors can expect to enjoy tropical drinks with a modern twist and drinkware worthy of its own Instagram account.
As Bentonville grows to accommodate new tastes, Junto Sushi and Bar Kapu join a community of eateries and gathering places setting top-tier standards for the future - one which celebrates individuality, demands quality, and prioritizes experience.
It’s Pumpkin Bread Season
The Perfect Recipe For Some Autumn Comfort
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or canola oil
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a mixing bowl, add the flour, baking soda and baking powder, spices, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine the oil, butter, and vanilla in a liquid measuring cup.
4. In a mixing bowl (with a paddle attachment), beat the pumpkin, sugar, and eggs until combined.
5. Turn the mixer to low and slowly add the liquid ingredients. Let this process take about 1 to 2 minutes so the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
6. Using a spatula, fold the dry ingredients into the wet and slowly fold until the ingredients are blended.
7. Prepare a 10 x 5 loaf pan by buttering it really well and then adding a strip of parchment paper to the bottom and up the sides for easy removal.
8. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 1 hour. The bread will be fully risen in the center, like a loaf. Make sure it’s fully cooked and brown on the top otherwise it will fall in the middle once removed from the oven.
ARTICLE BY DON SEAMAN
5310 W Village Pkwy, Ste 3 Rogers, AR 72758 479-273-6049 yesi.dalton@edwardjones.com
SER VI NG UP S OUP
CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP
This hearty chicken noodle soup is the perfect comfort food that is packed with nutritious goodness. This pairs perfectly with homemade beer bread or a sourdough loaf.
INGREDIENTS:
• 8 cups chicken broth (add more if desired)
• Whole fryer chicken, cut in chunks or shredded
• 5 celery stalks, sliced
• 8 carrots, sliced
• ½ onion diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• ¼ cup half and half (optional)
• 1 package egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
In a large stock pot, add 8 cups of chicken broth. Dice carrots, celery and onion and add to the broth. Bring to a boil, and reduce to medium heat until the vegetables are soft. In the meantime, skin and cube 1 whole fryer chicken and add to the stock pot. Next, add egg noodles (frozen Reames homemade egg noodles are my favorite) and let boil until noodles are cooked. Add butter, half and half, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low until ready to serve.
CONTINUED >
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
This classic tomato basil soup is easy and quick to make and is the perfect way to get the rustic, tangy and savory flavors of this italian dish.
DIRECTIONS:
Toss the butter or olive oil in the pan. Add onion, and saute until the onion is translucent and soft. Add minced garlic, and saute for 2 minutes. Next, add canned tomatoes and simmer. Transfer to a blender, and puree until smooth. Add the fresh basil and heavy cream. Transfer mixture back to the pan to thoroughly heat, and salt and pepper to taste. Top with fresh parmesan and chopped basil, and serve with toasted italian bread.
CREAMY BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP
For a healthy dose of vitamin A, enjoy this creamy soup that boasts a robust, rich butternut flavor. For an easier assembly buy pre-cut butternut squash.
INGREDIENTS:
• 6 cups cubed butternut squash
• 1 small onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups water
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon salt
• Pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
Combine the chopped squash, onion, garlic and red pepper, and place in a large pot. Add water, and bring to a boil. Add salt and simmer for about 30 minutes. Cool and blend mixture in a blender until smooth. Transfer mixture back to pot and add heavy whipping cream and fresh thyme. Pepper to taste. Garnish with pepitas and fresh herbs.
A Handmade Date Night
Make it feel like an extra special at-home date night with thoughtful touches from the heart—and hands.
A date night at home is the perfect occasion to shower your loved ones with affection and appreciation. While storebought gifts and cards have their charm, there’s something incredibly special about receiving a handmade gesture. By opting for a handmade date night, you’re not just expressing love but also showcasing your thoughtfulness and effort. These handmade creations convey a personal touch that can’t be replicated.
From-Scratch Pasta
what you need
Lavender Bath Salt Blend
what you need
16 ounces Bokek Dead Sea Salt 20 drops lavender essential oil
what you do
In a mixing bowl, add drops of the essential oil to the bath salt and mix well; store in a glass jar. Add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the scented salts to a bath for a relaxing experience. SeaSalt.com
Yield: 1 pound
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
4 large eggs
what you do
1. Mound the flour in the center of a work surface with a well in the middle. Crack the eggs into the well and beat with a fork until smooth, then work flour into eggs with the fork. Use a bench scraper to work in the rest of the flour a little at a time. When the flour is incorporated, form the dough with your hands into a rounded mass for kneading. Lightly dust your workspace with flour and knead dough about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover dough with a bowl or plastic wrap and rest 1 1/2 hours, or chill overnight.
2. To roll by hand, flour a clean work surface. Vigorously roll dough to a very thin circle and roll constantly with even pressure as it stretches for several minutes until as thin as possible, almost translucent.
3. To cut by hand, lightly fold sheets one at a time into thirds and cut to desired thickness. Recipe from MarthaStewart.com
Dark Chocolate Truffles
what you need
1/2 cup heavy cream
8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup cocoa powder, for dusting
what you do
1. Bring the cream to just a simmer in a saucepan over low heat. Pour the cream over the chocolate in a bowl and let stand about 10 minutes to melt the chocolate. Add the vanilla, stir until smooth and set aside to cool for 1 hour at room temperature.
2. Beat chocolate at medium speed until thick and light-colored. Spread over the bottom of a baking dish, smooth and refrigerate 2 hours until firm.
3. Pour cocoa powder onto a deep plate or shallow bowl, and using a melon baller or small ice cream scoop, scoop out balls of chocolate. Roll in cocoa powder until coated and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Recipe from FoodNetwork.com
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 5TH
Women of Oz Flagship Ride
The Momentary | 10:00 AM
Join the October Flagship Ride with Women of Oz. This guided experience caters to all skill levels, from beginners seeking the basics to advanced riders ready to push their limits. The ride culminates in a post-ride social event, sponsored by a local restaurant or brewery, fostering connections and supporting local businesses. Sign up at www.woznwa.com/flagship-ride
OCTOBER 11TH - 13TH
Vintage Market Days
Benton County Fairgrounds | 10:00 AM
Get in the fall spirit with a weekend of seasonal shopping at Vintage Market Days. Located at the Benton County Fairgrounds, the vintage-inspired market features everything from original art and antiques to handmade treasures, fashion, and home décor.
OCTOBER 11TH - 13TH
KANINIFEST
The Momentary
This fall, the Momentary will host the first-ever KaniniFest, a one-act play festival featuring three days of plays and immersive performances, dance workshops, drum circles, art installations, and more.
OCTOBER 17TH
Unbroken - A Community Gallery Event
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art | 6:30 PM
This gallery event will feature touching performances, powerful music, and meaningful artworks created by local survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. The evening will also feature an award ceremony and celebration of local supporters. Stop by the Great Hall at Crystal Bridges between 6:30-8:30 p.m. to enjoy local art and show your support.
OCTOBER 17TH
DEB Project - Fashion Show Fundraiser
Metro Plex Event Center | 5:00 PM
The DEB Project Fashion Show Fundraiser is a special event to raise funds for children in foster care and children in need in the community. In addition to a fashion show featuring adopted children and adults as models, the event will also host a silent auction, great food and so much more.
OCTOBER 27TH
DriftNWA Drifting Event at Drake Field
Drake Field Airport | 9:00 AM
Stop by Drake Field this October for an action packed day of drifting for both drivers of all skill levels, and spectators. During competitions the drivers drift through a designated course, they are judged on style, control, and execution. Beginner drivers can practice in a designated section with on-site instructors while spectators enjoy the show and ride-alongs.
Wyatt Layman BENTONVILLE CITY LIFESTYLE PUBLISHER
Burn Boot Camp BENTONVILLE BURNBOOTCAMP.COM
Carmelita Catering Co. CARMELITACATERINGCO.COM
Edward Jones Financial Advisors
Daniel Paul | David Jones | Rafe Ann Du Bois | Yesi Dalton EDWARDJONES.COM
