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There are a few things Arkansans take as seriously as Razorback football, fried catfish and cheese dip. Texans can brag about their queso, but here in Arkansas, we know cheese dip is our invention, and we’re proud of it.
So, what’s the difference? Arkansas cheese dip is usually a smooth, melty blend of processed cheese, milk, and a touch of spice. Sometimes it’s thickened with a roux, sometimes not. It’s typically thinner and creamier than Tex-Mex queso, which often packs in fresh peppers and chunky tomatoes. However you make it, the goal is the same: a silky dip that clings to a chip just right.
Cheese dip is part of everyday life here. It’s the first thing you order at a Mexican restaurant, the star of every potluck, and the reason friends hang around the kitchen island on game day. It feels both casual and special, and it’s uniquely Arkansan.
History of Cheese Dip
The story begins in 1935, when Blackie Donnelly opened Mexico Chiquito in Hot Springs. Alongside his enchiladas, he served a golden, molten cheese dip that quickly became a sensation. When Donnely later expanded to North Little Rock, cheese dip went with him, and before long other restaurants across the state followed suit. Families even began recreating it at home, each with their own spin.
When anyone claims to be the first or the best at something, they open themselves up to debate. Texans claim their chile con queso came first, but Arkansans argue our version is the original. They can undoubtedly be considered cousins. Queso is chunkier and spicier, while Arkansas cheese dip is all about a silky texture that can be scooped, drizzled or poured.
The Original Recipe
What does and doesn’t belong in cheese dip is also often debated. Donnelly’s recipe is still a closely guarded secret, but most agree it started with processed yellow cheese that was thinned with milk and lightly seasoned. Served warm in small bowls with baskets of tortilla chips, it was simple but irresistible. The desire for more of the cheesy dipped people to start recreating it at home. Cooks took to melting blocks of cheese on the stovetop and adding garlic, cumin, chili powder, or even a can of Ro-Tel. Some kept it mild, others cranked up the heat with jalapeños. Some swear by yellow American cheese, while others use white American. However it was made, the joy was the same: a bubbling bowl of cheese dip at the center of the table.
From Arkansas Tables to the National Stage
Cheese dip isn’t just a snack in Arkansas; it’s part of our culture. Nearly every restaurant serves it, it fuels Razorback watch parties, and it’s the dish Arkansans love to debate as much as sports.
That pride has stretched far beyond state lines. Cheese dip has been featured in documentaries, covered in national newspapers, and even went head-to-head against Texas queso in a 2016 blind taste test on Capitol Hill. Arkansas won, confirming what locals already knew: the best cheese dip starts right here.
The World Cheese Dip Championship
Since 2010, Little Rock has hosted the World Cheese Dip Championship, where pros and home cooks compete for bragging rights. Visitors taste their way through the entries, judges pick winners, and proceeds benefit Harmony Health Clinic, a free medical and dental clinic in the city. Originally held in the fall, the event has recently teamed up with the Foam Fest Craft Beer Festival in June, bringing Arkansans together for the classic combination of beer and cheese dip.
The Best Cheese Dips in Arkansas
Just like the endless debate between Arkansas and Texas over cheese dip versus queso, each Arkansan could endlessly debate the best cheese dip in the state. I have my personal favorites, but it doesn’t matter who serves it, I’m going to enjoy a chip or ten dipped into the cheesy goodness! Here are a few of the most popular cheese dips in Arkansas.
Stoby’s Restaurant – Conway & Russellville
Stoby’s is famous for its Original Cheese Dip. This silky yellow dip is mild, creamy and perfect for dunking chips. They also serve a Spicy White Queso for folks who like a little extra kick, making it a go-to spot for cheese dip lovers in Conway.
Tacos 4 Life – Various Locations
At Tacos 4 Life, the cheese dip is smooth, creamy, and mild enough to please all ages. It’s a perfect starter with chips but also doubles as a drizzle over their tacos and nachos.
The Purple Cow – Various Locations
Purple Cow’s cheese dip is rich, homemade and award-winning, with a classic yellow base that’s smooth and mellow. It’s served with plenty of tortilla chips and has earned a loyal following for being simple, creamy and consistently good.
Dizzy’s Gypsy Bistro – Little Rock
Dizzy’s cheese dip is legendary and is known for its ultra-creamy texture and perfectly balanced flavor. It’s previously won top honors at the World Cheese Dip Championship, making it a must-try for anyone chasing the state’s best dip.
Taco & Tamale Co. – Various Locations
Heights Taco & Tamale is celebrated for its classic yellow cheese dip that’s velvety smooth and full of flavor. It’s a local favorite that perfectly captures the Arkansas style—creamy, dippable, and just the right amount of spice.
The Fold: Botanas & Bar – Little Rock
The Fold serves a thick, creamy white cheese dip that stands out from the classic yellow versions. It’s rich, a little tangy and pairs beautifully with their fresh chips and creative taco menu.
Big Orange – Various Locations
Big Orange serves up a smooth, house-made cheese dip that’s creamy, mild, and perfect with their crisp tortilla chips.
Gadwall’s Grill – North Little Rock
Gadwall’s Grill offers a classic golden cheese dip that’s creamy and comforting. It’s a longtime local favorite that feels right at home alongside their burgers and Southern comfort food.
Baja Grill – Various Locations
Baja Grill’s cheese dip is smooth, flavorful, but also a little zesty. It is perfect for serving with their Baja-inspired tacos and burritos.
Local Lime – Various Locations
Local Lime’s cheese dip is a fan favorite, offering a velvety, slightly tangy queso blanco that’s smooth and flavorful without being too heavy. It’s the perfect starter to share before diving into their creative tacos and margaritas.
Choosing a favorite dip is no easy task, so I highly recommend trying as many as you can. You can even make this delicious Arkansas Campfire Dip at home. It’s full of cheesy goodness. You’ll find this recipe, along with several other cheese dip recipes, in “What’s Cookin’ at First Security Vol. 2.” Proceeds from the sales go to the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance to help feed people across the state. You can purchase the cookbooks for $20 at any First Security Bank location.
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