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Dear Readers,
As the heat of summer fades away, Fayetteville embraces one of my favorite seasons—fall. The city transforms into a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and my personal favorite, yellow. The crisp autumn air invites us to enjoy tailgate parties, patio gatherings, and the simple pleasures of outdoor life. This October issue of Fayetteville City Lifestyle celebrates the essence of food and drink in our community.
Fayetteville's culinary offerings extend beyond our spectacular restaurants and bars to include vibrant farms, specialty retail shops, charming wineries, and talented food photographers. Our town truly embraces its small businesses, and we take pride in celebrating these unique contributors.
In this issue, we explore the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Old Pine Coffee Roasters that provides a cozy retreat for coffee lovers nestled next to Mud Creek Trail. Discover the charm of Evergreen Beef Co., a family-run farm dedicated to sustainable practices and premium beef, with passionate farmers who bring their quality cuts to the Farmer’s Market.
Atlas the Restaurant is a culinary gem where chef-owner inspiration translates into an ever-evolving menu celebrating global flavors and seasonal ingredients. City Supply is a nostalgic haven featuring unique products and artisanal delights, including local favorites and hard-to-find treats like Old School Chocolate Gravy Mix.
Don’t miss the spooky fun at Pinpoint, Fayetteville's Halloween hotspot with themed pinball machines and creative cocktails. And as La Hacienda nears its 25th anniversary, we reflect on its journey from humble beginnings to becoming a cherished family-run establishment.
South Yard emerges as a vibrant destination with eclectic offerings, including The Meteor, a cafe and bike shop that promises a unique blend of good food and cycling culture. Immerse yourself in the artful world of Urban Cellar Winery where wine-making magic creates memorable experiences. Learn more about a stunning new art installation, “Human Nature,” from local fashion and food photographer, Meredith Mashburn.
I’m also thrilled to announce that Fayetteville City Lifestyle is growing! This is our longest issue yet, and we’ve welcomed four new writers and a new photographer to our team, expanding our editorial staff to a remarkably talented group of nine. Along with Publisher Gavin Magee, I’m beyond excited to present this issue, which has been lovingly and carefully crafted by these exceptional individuals.
We hope this issue inspires you to savor the season and enjoy all the incredible local experiences Fayetteville has to offer.
Warmest Regards,
ANNA VANHORN, PUBLICATION DIRECTOR @FAYETTEVILLECITYLIFESTYLE
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Gavin Magee | gavin.magee@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Anna Van Horn | anna.vanhorn@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Clay Ridgeway | clay.ridgeway@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Riley Atkinson | riley.atkinson@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kristal Kuykendall, Landon McKay, Kristin Gray, Will Newton, Hailey Smith, Sydney Johnson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Andrea Pruitt, Emily Hendrick, Cassie Thomas
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
Learn
Owner
Urban
1: Andy’s Ice Cream is now open in Uptown Fayetteville. Treat yourself this Fall! 2: Colors of Amber and Fall fill flights of beer at Fossil Cove 3: The Peachy Grove matcha is a fun drink for seasonal change 4: Savor the new Korean Fried Chicken classic plate at East Side Grill 5: You can get candy trick or treating this October, or on your Burton’s Ice Cream 6: Fall in love with the sweet potato pancake at Farmer’s Table 7: Is it really a gameday without hog shaped cookies from Rick’s Bakery?
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!
ARTICLE BY LANDON MCKAY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PRUITT
This year, Evergreen Beef Co. emerged from the hands of Kylee and Henry Francis, third-generation farmers dedicated to supplying premium frozen beef cuts to Northwest Arkansas. Evergreen uses sustainable practices and ethical components for trusted, single-sourced, direct-from-farmer products.
“The animals are our livelihood,” says Kylee, “It’s important to us to treat them like family. All the cattle are raised on rotating pastures to roam freely, get good grass, and give the grass a chance to regenerate. We’re passionate about our work. We take a lot of pride in upholding an unmatched standard of excellence. There’s a high commitment to quality.”
“WE’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT OUR WORK. WE TAKE A LOT OF PRIDE IN UPHOLDING AN UNMATCHED STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE. THERE’S A HIGH COMMITMENT TO QUALITY.”
Implementing Evergreen Beef’s core values allows it to maintain sustainable practices. Kylee and Henry emphasize that how they treat their cattle and farming is no different from how they treat their most beloved personal belongings.
Since becoming a vendor at the Fayetteville Farmers Market, the receptiveness of the community has blown Evergreen Beef Co. away. Kylee says, “Getting to have that face-to-face interaction with the farmer goes a long way in establishing trust… The community has been more than welcoming, and we’re excited to continue to supply [them] with high-quality protein.”
Henry highlights the metaphor that ‘Rising tides lift all boats’ in describing Evergreen Beef’s goal. “We love to be an outlet for customers,” he says, “but we want other vendors and farmers to join in. We want to be a part of a larger consumer movement striving to purchase directly from farmers. We are extremely adaptive to growing this business to meet the customers where they’re at.”
Evergreen Beef has plans to expand significantly and increase its supply in the coming seasons. “We want to give the community what they’ve given us in their support this year by being willing to grow and continue to adapt,” says Kylee.
Kylee and Henry are pursuing a passion for sustainability and agricultural education – seeking impact for both themselves and the people they serve. Being able to do this alongside their family has been one of their greatest joys. “People believe in us and what we’re offering,” says Henry, “and that is really moving to me.”
Check out Evergreen Beef Co. at the Fayetteville Farmer’s Market every Saturday from 7 am to 2 pm and stay up to date on their business and expansion to other sales channels through their Instagram, @evergreenbeefco, and website, evergreenbeefco.com
ARTICLE BY KRISTIN GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY HENDRICK & MEREDITH MASHBURN
“These experiences left a lasting impression on me and set a foundation for my lifelong love of travel and of cooking.”
Owner and Executive Chef Elliott Hunt discusses how world travels inspired Atlas’s unique culinary excellence.
An atlas on a coffee table is really where my journey began. At age nine, I found my father’s National Geographic opened to France. Avid travelers, my parents had planned our spring break. I still remember the meals we enjoyed. The food was art, the service was a ballet, and there was an art to being a diner.
I was born and raised in Fayetteville, so it was natural after traveling for many years that it called to me when I was ready to open a restaurant of my own. It’s a beautiful city that’s growing very quickly, and I saw a great opportunity for a restaurant of our style to succeed.
HOW DOES BEING CHEF-OWNED INFLUENCE THE DINING EXPERIENCE?
Being chef-owned helps us pinpoint small details to curate a special experience. We strive every day to focus on each ingredient, each dish, and the kitchen efficiency. This translates to service in the front of the house and how we take care of our guests, to controlling
our timing and coursing meals to make the experience feel smooth.
WHAT SETS ATLAS APART FROM OTHER FINE-DINING RESTAURANTS?
Our menu is unique because we change most of the items four times a year. We use seasonal ingredients at their best flavor and work with local farms and producers for each iteration of the menu. We also encourage our management team to travel and gather inspiration from all over the world. From trips we’ve taken to Mexico City, France, or Thailand, we love discovering new flavors and techniques we are excited about!
WHAT DO YOU HOPE DINERS TAKE AWAY FROM THEIR EXPERIENCE?
We hope our guests feel transported away and engaged in the moment. Atlas gives everyone an opportunity to explore new flavors, incredible cocktails, and unique wines from around the world all while being immersed in the hospitality we strive to give.
Urban Cellar Winery helps curate special memories over wine
Tucked in the heart of Fayetteville, at 21 West Mountain Street, sits Fayetteville’s own wine bar and winery that produces fun and fine wines. Owned and curated by Cassidy Ginger, a Fayetteville native and Walton College graduate, Urban Cellar Winery specializes in winemaking, gifts, custom labels, charcuterie, tastings, and private events. And coming soon, an exclusive UCW wine club.
Stop by the winery and savor a glass of crisp peach on their inviting patio, or pick up a bottle of their house Cabernet to enjoy at home. Cooking your mom’s triedand-true white chicken chili for book club? Ginger can recommend what wine pairs the best. (Probably a Pinot Gris or Chardonnay).
Malbec, Super Tuscan, Cabernet Franc
• Birthdays
• Girls’ Night Out
• Anniversaries
• Football/Game Nights
• Wedding Parties
• Reunions
• Housewarmings
• Open Houses
• Graduations
• Retirements
• Book/Dinner Clubs
• Corporate Team Building
Urban Cellar Winery’s popular winemaking and bottling parties are bringing people together to experience wine in a hands-on, memorable way. Ginger says the novelty of her bottling parties help create stellar celebrations or popup events for groups both large and small. Plus, everyone leaves with their own delicious bottle. Cheers to that!
THE CELLAR’S COZY FALL PICKS
2021 Super Tuscan - Tuscany - notes of tart cherry, raspberries, blackberry, licorice, black pepper, leather and vanilla spice
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon – Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley – notes of blueberry, blackberry, cherry, floral, cedar, cinnamon and vanilla
2022 Malbec – Yakima V Valley – notes of violets, plums, marzipan, butterscotch, raspberries, and licorice
NEARING ITS 25TH YEAR, LA HACIENDA OWES MUCH TO ITS LOYAL CUSTOMERS, OWNER SAYS.
ARTICLE BY KRISTAL KUYKENDALL
Mention Fayetteville Mexican restaurant La Hacienda to many area residents, and they’re likely to have a memory about going there with their family, or a memory about the family that runs the place.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREA PRUITT & EMILY HENDRICK CONTINUED >
As the restaurant approaches its 25th birthday next year, La Hacienda remains a family-run business, now managed primarily by brothers Alejandro and Jesus Rodriguez and their father, Jose, who took a giant leap in July 2000 when he opened the business at the intersection of Zion and Crossover. Sisters Ana and Paloma also help operate the restaurant.
Jose Rodriguez and his wife, Maria, had worked together at the Marriott in downtown Houston, and Jose worked at a
restaurant as well; he dreamed of opening his own place someday.
“He learned the business from the bottom up, starting as a dishwasher in Houston, then as cook, and a busser, then bartender and finally as a waiter,” Alejandro explained. “When we first moved here I was 3, and my parents worked at Superior Wheels in South Fayetteville. It was hard work, and both worked 12-hour overnight shifts” while raising their family.
“FAYETTEVILLE...HAS GOT THIS MAGIC THAT OTHER CITIES DON’T HAVE.”
When the couple opened La Hacienda in summer of 2000, all the permits and paperwork requirements for opening a restaurant were overwhelming, Alejandro remembered. But Fayetteville did what it so often does: made them feel at home.
“As he was getting everything ready to open and seeking all the necessary documents and permits, along the way, there was always someone to help him — whether it was someone he talked to at the city or someone he’d met at the restaurant, we always had
this strong sense that, in Fayetteville, there are humble and friendly people who are willing to help,” Alejandro said.
“Fayetteville has always given us a good family vibe. We slowly started building the restaurant up and building a customer base and getting to know people,” he said. “Sometimes we’ve been clueless, but God willing, there’s always been someone in our path to guide us because at the beginning, we didn’t know anything about opening or running a restaurant.”
When the Rodriguez family first moved to Arkansas, Jose was more of an observer than a talker, Alejandro recalled.
“When we opened the restaurant, he became very outgoing, freely and happily greeting customers and speaking his mind,” Alejandro said, laughing. “People who know him now don’t believe me when I tell them my dad was timid at one point.”
As Jose came out of his shell, the restaurant thrived. Customers became regulars and then good friends. Alejandro, now 31, has grown up with their regulars, and the Rodriguezes frequently hear families in their dining room reminiscing about late loved ones who preferred La Hacienda over any other restaurant.
“Kids who have grown up coming here, or adults whose hair is turning gray, will mention to me how much our restaurant means to their family, or meant a lot to their parent who has passed on — some people get pretty emotional about it,” Alejandro said.
“And that’s why we take such good care of our customers and treat everyone like family. Don’t get me wrong: We also do our best on the food and the drinks and everything else, but we really want them to have a good sense of their home when our customers come here.”
The Rodriguez family — which also owns San Miguel Mexican Grill & Bar on Front Street, opened in 2014 — has considered other cities for their restaurants, Alejandro said. But so far, no other place has measured up, he added. “Being in Fayetteville is just a step above. It’s got this magic that other cities don’t have.”
ARTICLE BY LANDON MCKAY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSIE THOMAS
The Fayetteville Ale Trail introduces a facet of Northwest Arkansas culture for both locals and visitors to explore. Featuring 23 breweries total - 8 of which are located in Fayetteville - the Fayetteville Ale Trail provides a level of entertainment perfect for weekends with friends, travelers riding through Northwest Arkansas, adult family gatherings, and more.
The Fayetteville Ale Trail first opened at the end of 2013 and originally featured 7 breweries highlighting the city of Fayetteville. Fast forward to today, and the passport program has grown to include 23 breweries around Northwest Arkansas, still with events occasionally circling the 8 breweries in Fayetteville. The Ale Trail is a great way to show your support for local businesses, all the while enjoying the delicious craft brews from around the region. Whether you’re in a race to finish the Ale Trail before your friends or take it slow with a stop or two every weekend, the Ale Trail helps you explore flavors while also discovering the beauty of Northwest Arkansas.
“Experience Fayetteville is Fayetteville’s tourism promotion office,” says Sarah King, Experience Fayetteville’s VP of Marketing and Communications. “We print the Ale Trail passport. It fits in your pocket and features each of these breweries.” The current prize for completing the tour of the 8 Fayetteville breweries is a custom lanyard/koozie combo. If you complete all 23, you’ll be one of the few who earns a stein saying, ‘I finished the Ale Trail.’
Even for those who don’t earn or haven’t yet earned their prize, the Fayetteville Ale Trail is one of the most unique outlets for longtime residents and newcomers to immerse themselves in the culture of Northwest Arkansas. “Over the years,” says Sarah, “we’ve given out more than 150,000 of these passports. The community impact of folks getting out and visiting all these unique breweries has been great.” Each brewery maintains a unique aesthetic and personality. For instance, Columbus House is known as a hub for runners, so if you’ve got a knack for getting out and going for a jog, you can meet like-minded people here for a great way to plug into running.
Sarah says, “Ale Trail is a way for us to not only highlight these really cool small businesses and independent breweries but also roll out the welcome mat to visitors. Plus, it’s really beloved by locals.”
Getting involved in the Ale Trail is simple. Of course, you do need to be 21 or older to take part as well as follow all applicable laws. The Experience Fayetteville Visitors Center will be closed until early 2025, but you can pick up a passport at any one of the 23 participating breweries or order online for a mail reception at fayettevillealetrail.com. You can also get a passport from Vanny if you see Experience Fayetteville’s Mobile Visitors Center in October. Regardless of your method of receiving your passport, getting started comes at no cost to you. From there, the Ale Trail begins, acting as a choose-your-own-adventure type of activity, so you can start and finish wherever you’d like.
“There aren’t any particular rules about what you have to order,” says Sarah. “Stop by any of the 23 breweries, present your passport, and ask for it to be stamped.”
One of Fayetteville Ale Trail’s most exciting events is starting this month. “Our Visitors Center was closed for remodeling starting in September,” says Sarah. “During this time, our Mobile Visitors Center, a sprinter van named Vanny, will be popping up all around Fayetteville. You can visit our website or check our social media to find out where you can see Vanny. In the month of October, for the folks who visit our 8 Fayetteville craft breweries and return a completed passport, we will have a special t-shirt that lets everyone know that you visited those breweries… Vanny will also be at Falltoberfest for its second year, so that’s a great way to pick up your passport and get going on the journey.”
For more information on the Fayetteville Ale Trail, visit fayettevillealetrail.com or find Experience Fayetteville on Instagram @ fayettevillear. You can also check out all the breweries included in the Fayetteville Ale Trail below!
Columbus House Brewery, Crisis Brewing Company, Fayetteville Beer Works, Flyway Brewing Company, Fossil Cove Brewing Co., Mad Rooster Beer Company, Puritan Coffee & Beer, West Mountain Brewing Co., Bentonville Brewing Company, Bike Rack Brewing Co., Black Apple, Core of Arkansas, Eureka Springs Brewery, GOAT Lab Brewery, Ivory Bill Brewing Co., Natural State Beer Company, New Province Brewing Company, Orthodox Farmhouse Brewery, Ozark Beer Co., Rendezvous Junction Brewing Co., Saddlebock Brewery, Social Project Brewing Co., The Recreation Parlor.
The Fayetteville Ale Trail spotlights familiar favorites like Fossil Cove Brewing Co., Columbus House Brewery, and Flyway Brewing Company as well as newer additions like Crisis Brewing Company. Visit all the breweries along the trail for rewards, or find the spots you like, and stick with them!
Specially curated products guaranteed to make you nostalgic.
Kirsten and Chase Morman designed City Supply around the sentiment of remembering the good old days. When you walk inside, your eyes are immediately drawn towards a black and white projection of The Andy Griffith Show broadcasting on the wall. Several of the products placed around the store feature “old-timey” fonts and packaging. City Supply feels like a unique pocket of peace in a fast-paced city.
The family-owned business opened its doors in 2018 and has only continued to grow. The store, which Kirsten described as a “modern-day mercantile,” has offerings that range from Arkansas-based to nationwide vendors. “We have over 70 Arkansas businesses,” said Kirsten.
City Supply’s source of nostalgia comes from its products. From gift baskets to baking ingredients to hunting accessories, City Supply has it all, and these products are specifically curated by the Mormans. “We test everything that comes in, too,” affirmed Kirsten. Inspiration for the products they sell comes from anywhere, whether it be a niche interest the family has or by following other creatives and small businesses. “If it’s not typically available [in stores], we’re into it.”
A popular concentration in City Supply’s inventory is its food and drink options. Patrons can enter City Supply’s doors and know that every product they purchase will elevate the way they cook, grill, or bartend. These small-business products, as compared to mass-marketed retail items, “can change the way your house is used for hospitality,” said Kirsten. “Who else carries chocolate gravy?”
“We like to curate an inventory that allows people to really enjoy their lifestyle, no matter their season of life they’re in.”
A popular brand sold at City Supply is Colorado’s The Real Dill. The store sells multiple products from the brand, including its variety of Bloody Mary mixes and dill pickles. The Bloody Mary mixes come in original, extra spicy and harvest mix, each priced at $14.99. The pickle lovers can choose between habanero horseradish and caraway garlic, each priced at $14.99 a jar.
Old School Brand Chocolate Gravy Mix:
This classic product at City Supply is bound to make memories. Packaged with a font straight out of the 1800s and priced at $8.99 a package, this unique gravy can be paired with biscuits, toast and ice cream.
Bittermilk: Bourbon Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned Syrup:
A great addition to your personal bar cart is Bittermilk’s bourbon syrup. This award-winning syrup from South Carolina is perfect for crafting your own drinks or as a gift for a cocktail enthusiast. The syrup comes in a single-serve bottle at $2.99 a bottle or in an 8.5 oz. bottle at $18.99.
Shipped to Fayetteville from Ohio, Jeni’s Ice Cream brand has a ton of unique flavors, such as Sweet Cream Biscuits & Peach Jam and Kirsten’s personal favorite, Goat Cheese & Red Cherries. Jeni’s Street Treats are great for an on-the-go snack, priced at $3.99 each, while pintsized options are available at $12.99.
ARTICLE BY HAILEY SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY HENDRICK
SOME OF FAYETTEVILLE’S LOCAL EVENTS TO EXPERIENCE THIS SEASON.
From October 22nd to 27th, the Walton Arts Center is celebrating Halloween with the upcoming musical, “Beetlejuice”. “If you loved the movie or if you just love Halloween, this show is perfect for you,” says Walton Arts Center.
Go for a hayride, corn maze, and pick out your favorite pumpkin. Our favorite local pumpkin patches include Mcgarrah Farms Rivercrest Orchard and Sequoyah UMC Youth Pumpkin Patch.
Donald W. Reynolds Stadium is a must this fall. Grab your friends to celebrate the festivities across campus. The home football games in October include Tennessee on the 5th and LSU on the 19th.
Festive Cookies
Enjoy some Halloween-themed cookies at Rick’s Bakery. One of our favorites is the “Cookie Monster” sandwich. Check out Rick’s for more sweet treats!
The scenery around Fayetteville is a masterpiece. Some sights in Fayetteville include Mount Sequoyah, Lake Fayetteville, and hikes throughout the Ozark Mountains.
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY JOHNSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSIE THOMAS
If you haven’t yet visited South Yard, at the corner of MLK Boulevard and South School Street, you’re likely wondering what all the buzz is about. This new development has transformed four existing buildings into a vibrant destination filled with delicious food and beverage spots, unique entertainment, retail spaces, a public park, and residential apartments. The intention behind the heavily traveled location is to inspire people to connect with nature and neighbors. It’s a hub for active explorers, casual adventurers, and everyone in between!
Recently, South Yard celebrated the arrival of an exciting new addition: The Meteor. This all-day cafe, natural wine shop, and boutique bike shop has opened its third location in Fayetteville. Craving sourdough pizza or decadent cocktails? How about a juicy, tender burger, breakfast tacos, or housemade baked goods? The Meteor has something to satisfy every craving.
CONTINUED >
Their vision is to create a charming, multifaceted environment that brings all their passions together under one roof: exquisite wine, delicious food, meticulously crafted coffee, and a love for bicycles. This unique blend is perfectly captured in their motto: Espresso | Champagne | Chain Lube. From the moment you catch sight of “The Meteor” sign, it feels like you’re about to discover a hidden treasure. As you step inside, you’re greeted by stunning interiors that exude warmth and style, along with cheerful faces and friendly welcomes from the staff. It doesn’t take long for a wine or cocktail glass to be filled to perfection, setting the tone for a memorable experience.
In addition to its inviting atmosphere, The Meteor features a bike shop that offers a boutique retail experience. The shop specializes in expert service, providing a carefully curated selection of high-quality bikes, apparel, and accessories. It’s more than just a bike shop—it’s a community hub for cycling enthusiasts and casual riders alike. With its unique combination of offerings, The Meteor is poised to become a go-to destination for commuters biking to work and school, as well as a popular stop for those exploring The Ramble on foot or by bike. Whether you’re there to grab a cup of expertly brewed coffee, enjoy a glass of champagne, or shop for the latest cycling gear, The Meteor promises an experience that is as unique as it is unforgettable.
In addition to this sweet spot, there are two others you won’t want to miss: Central BBQ and Taco & Tamale. Central BBQ brings the taste of Memphisstyle barbecue right to Northwest Arkansas, offering a genuine Southern experience that barbecue lovers will adore. The meats are slowly smoked to perfection and marinated for 24 hours using a secret recipe that ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Among the most popular dishes are the pulled pork sandwich, known for its tender, juicy texture, and the decadently delicious mac and cheese that keeps customers coming back for more.
Meanwhile, Taco & Tamale brings a unique twist with what they call Ark-Mex: a fusion of classic TexMex flavors with the distinct influences of Arkansas’s rich food culture. This spot has quickly become a local favorite, especially during happy hour. Every Monday through Wednesday, from 3 pm to 6 pm, you can enjoy $5 margaritas, along with $2 off draft wine and draft beer, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day. And if you’re looking for a great brunch spot, Taco & Tamale also offers a fantastic weekend brunch from 11 am to 3 pm. Whether you’re in the mood for smokey barbecue or a creative take on Tex-Mex, these spots offer something for everyone.
South Yard is quickly becoming a cornerstone of the community, offering a little bit of everything for everyone, whether you’re a foodie, an adventurer, or just looking for a place to unwind and connect with others. The Meteor is at the heart of this vibrant new development, which perfectly captures the spirit of South Yard with its blend of delightful food, fine wine, and a passion for cycling. It’s more than just a café or a bike shop; it’s a gathering place that brings people together through shared experiences and a love for quality and craftsmanship.
It’s spooky season, Fayetteville! The famous “Nightmare on Block Street” event, returns to Pinpoint on Friday, September 27th.
ARTICLE BY HAILEY SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PINPOINT
Opening in 2018, Pinpoint has become a well-known bar and has gained attraction nationwide. Owner, Bo Counts, was inspired to create “Nightmare on Block Street” after previous hobbies of being a DJ, event planner, and hosting “Beatbox Halloween Dance Parties.” Growing up and looking forward to Halloween, Bo started planning his iconic Halloween event. “Ever since I was a kid, taking part in Halloween every year, scaring kids on my front porch, going to college, and designing haunted houses, these all led me to create Nightmare,” says Counts. There are several new additions this year, along with traditional Halloween pinball machines, Halloween characters, and specialty-themed cocktails.
The popular craft cocktail bar originally held this wicked event for one weekend only, but it quickly gained its well-deserved fame. The group elongated the event to be more immersive and detailed than ever. “If you’ve got 30 days to play with instead? Well then let’s bring the big guns out.” says Counts. This year will be the longest record event, with 6 weekends, starting September 27th and celebrating the spookiness until November 2nd.
Pinpoint Fayetteville’s main attraction is the retro pinball machines filling the underground bar. In the fall season, the pinball machines are switched out with Halloween-themed games. The collection consists of over 68 pinball machines, but only room for 22 in the bar. Some Halloween-themed games include Dracula, Frankenstein, Scooby Doo, and many more that you will have to see for yourself. The outside patio will also be decorated as a pumpkin patch/corn maze ambiance reminiscent of autumn. Oh, and a 30-foot tall pumpkin monster!
There are always scenes in Halloween thrillers where it’s the ultimate party, and is expertly decorated, but where is that in real life? The Pinpoint team discovered how that only seems to exist on screen –except here. People all over the country come in and confidently say “I have never seen anything like this in real life”, which is what Pinpoint sets out to do. One goal that
Pinpoint tries to meet is to always think outside of the box, by asking themselves “Man wouldn’t it be cool if we…” and they end up doing it.
This year, many classics will be returning to Pinpoint including the iconic Jason character, Beetlejuice-themed tiki drinks and decorations, along with some local support from Wildflower Kitchen’s sweet treats available for purchase as well. “Halloween is a fun time to make the drinks whimsical and silly. It’s a part of the theme itself. When a customer has that drink in their hand, they become a part of the experience,” Counts recalls.
There are several events held in Fayetteville to celebrate Halloween, but Pinpoint is the longest-running 21+ day event locally. The business
loves to support local Halloween companies in Fayetteville. One example includes last year’s addition of a local haunted house to bring some characters to goof around with the people waiting in line. If you are a sucker for the spooky season but not horror, then Pinpoint is the place for you! Come on down to Pinpoint any day starting at 4 PM (closed Mondays). The spooky ambiance of Pinpoint is a place where Halloween is celebrated all season round.
One of the underground bar’s most popular Halloween cocktails is the Redrum blood bag. This is a red drink served in an IV bag and is always the most to be ordered. Another special feature is a partnership with Crisis Brewery IPA.
CULTIVATING A UNIQUE ENVIRONMENT IN A FAST-PACED CITY.
Coffee lovers familiar with Old Pine Coffee Roasters know that when you walk through its doors, the world slows down and gets quiet. Patrons in the roastery are often working on personal projects or having silent conversations while a vibey folk song sings through scattered speakers. If the weather permits, others are basking in the sun under the rustic pergola hidden behind the shop. These experiences are exactly how Old Pine owner Thomas Dominguez envisioned his coffee shop: “ You can come in here and enjoy your coffee and feel comfortable.”
Dominguez, who grew up in El Dorado, Arkansas and moved to Jonesboro to attend Arkansas State University, started roasting coffee beans in 2014. In 2017, the hobby upgraded into a business endeavor. He sold his beans out of his garage and quickly grew into a traveling espresso and concessions bar that frequented farmers markets and weddings. After 12 years in Jonesboro, Dominguez and his family relocated to Fayetteville and planted Old Pine at its permanent residence in early 2020.
Nestled next to Phat Tire Bike Shop and rooted on Mud Creek Trail, Dominguez knows how blessed he is to have found Old Pine’s home. The building always has plenty of parking, which Dominguez said helps Old Pine stand out against other coffee shops in the city. It also has a large interior furnished with tables, two bar areas and a reading corner with a couch and upholstered chairs. “You can usually come in and find a spot to sit, though you might have to share a table,” Dominguez said, affirming the relational value Old Pine holds dearly.
Being on the Mud Creek trail has been a beneficial experience for the coffee roastery. It often attracts
bikers and joggers from the Razorback Greenway into the shop, especially in the fall and spring. Biking groups will also meet at Old Pine before trekking out on the trail, according to Dominguez.
Dominguez’s appreciation for his southern upbringing heavily influenced the values behind Old Pine. He recognized that Fayetteville is a fast-paced city and, reflecting on the slow and patient lifestyle rooted in the rural south, knew he wanted to create a space that replicated that. “There’s something special about the culture of southern Arkansas. I thought Old Pine could bring the south up here,” said Dominguez. He started with the name Old Pine, honoring the loblolly pine trees found throughout his former home.
Dominguez and his wife are actively involved in Old Pine’s production. Dominguez often works shifts while his wife bakes all pastry options in-house, but they understand it’s not easy to maintain their unique atmosphere alone. Dominguez credits the shop’s staff for their dedication to cultivating his dream. The five staff members who work behind the counter are always welcoming, according to Dominguez, and he’s been lucky to have very little turnaround since opening the shop. “They’ve become part of our family. They’re happy being here, customers can see that, and it bleeds over into every aspect of our business.”
With coffee shops scattered around Fayetteville, Dominguez has no interest in competing to be the city’s top shop. He understands that Old Pine can often be the second or third choice for many coffee-enjoyers but will gladly welcome those who walk through his doors. “We don’t necessarily bring in new customers often, but once they’re here, they tend to come back.”
“There’s something special about the culture of southern Arkansas. I thought Old Pine could bring the south up here.”
ARTICLE BY ANNA VANHORN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEREDITH MASHBURN
Northwest Arkansas photographer Meredith Mashburn, renowned for her fashion and food photography, is set to unveil her latest art installation, “Human Nature,” on October 1st at Arsaga’s Mill District in Fayetteville, where the exhibit will run for two months .
Mashburn’s work transcends simple image-making, capturing life’s essence and advocating for environmental sustainability. “Photography is about capturing life itself and truly being in the moment,” she says, highlighting her commitment to showcasing the beauty and diversity of both Arkansas and beyond.
“Human Nature” reflects Mashburn’s belief in art as activism. “It’s about advocating for positive change and raising awareness,” she explains. Her project aims to dissolve the artificial boundaries between humanity and nature, reminding us of our intrinsic connection. “I invite you to share in this exploration and find your own path to awakening,” Mashburn adds, encouraging viewers to rediscover their place within the natural world.
Meredith Mashburn’s new photography installation reclaims art as activism, emphasizing harmony between humanity and nature.
