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The War Eagle Mill has been a Northwest Arkansas treasure for nearly 200 years and is a destination. Next time you plan your visit, grab lunch at the Blackburn Cafe within the War Eagle Mill.
The War Eagle Mill is an iconic landmark. I remember when our family first moved to the area in the mid-nineties when the local craft fairs were all the rage. The War Eagle Mill was a must-do craft fair because of the beautiful location and that gorgeous red centuries-old functioning gristmill.
Thankfully, the fall craft fair at the War Eagle Mill is still thriving, the mill still functions, and the restaurant still beckons us in with its cornbread and beans.
Grand reopening!
While the history of the War Eagle Mill is fascinating, I was curious to know if the restaurant was still open. It had been years since I’d been there, and I was interested to know if things were still the same.
The good news is, yes! The restaurant is still open and underwent a grand reopening in March 2024.
Mark and Cristin Hall, locals who had owned a restaurant in Ft. Smith for years, heard that the owner of the War Eagle Mill had put the mill up for sale, keeping the building and property separate from the War Eagle Mill Food Group.
Mark and Cristin jumped at the chance to own a piece of history they loved. They wanted to preserve it and keep the mill open, and so they did.
“We felt the Mill was such an iconic piece of Arkansas history that we didn’t want to see lost,” Mark shared. “We had the opportunity to be the stewards of the mill for the next generation. And to ensure it is here for our kids and grandkids.”
Renaming the restaurant
Mark and Cristin changed the restaurant (formerly called The Bean Palace) to Blackburn Cafe, named after the Blackburn family, which built the mill in 1832.
While the name changed, the classic dishes have remained with a twist. Since the Halls already owned a restaurant, they had a history of experimenting and trying new ideas while keeping it simple.
The menu has two daily specials: one standing special and one rotating. The whole idea, Mark shared, is to “have the food more like Grandma would’ve made. Home Cooking. We have forty different daily specials to run through and see what is popular and what isn’t.”
Let’s eat!
Without a doubt, their Beans and Cornbread are wildly popular. And, fun fact: you can purchase Cornbread Mix and the bean seasoning mix (tip, it’s the Pinto Bean Soup Mix) at the shop on the first floor of the mill.
I recommend trying the Beans and Cornbread with a side of jalapenos for a little kick.
If you’re in a lighter mood, try the Chicken Salad Sandwich with a side of chips. Try the Pot Roast Special or Meatloaf Special if you need something more stick-to-your-bones.
Both come with delicious cornbread and a side salad.
Finish your lunch with a delicious homemade cobbler of the day with a scoop of ice cream. Then again, why not just come for the cobbler?
One last thing
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention a few essential details about the Blackburn Cafe. The restaurant is located on the third floor and doesn’t have elevators. If you are okay with stairs, you’re good to go! I just wanted you to know.
Then again, you can order your meal from the first-floor store, shop a little, enjoy the grist mill demo, and then take your food outside to enjoy the beautiful water view.
Blackburn Cafe at War Eagle Mill
11045 War Eagle Rd
Rogers AR 72756
479-520-7044
HOURS:
Lunch 11 AM – 3 PM
Mill is open daily from 9 AM – 5 PM
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