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Northwest Marshall
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Northwest Food 0

Marshall’s Famed Daisy Queen

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Whenever we head out on one of our regular Ozark Road trips from central Arkansas to northern destinations or for a weekend escape to Branson, Highway 65 is our trusted route. However, these trips aren’t just about reaching our destination—they’re about enjoying the journey, and one of the highlights is our stop at The Daisy Queen in Marshall.

This little dairy bar has become an integral part of our travel plans. We often time our trips to arrive in Marshall at mealtime. There is never a question about where we will eat, and we already have our favorite order in mind.

Photo courtesy of Julie Kohl

The Daisy Queen isn’t just any fast-food restaurant; it’s a piece of Marshall’s history and has been for nearly 60 years. Established in 1966, Patsy Mays’s decision to purchase the restaurant was just the beginning of a family legacy. When her son, Jeff, was born the following year, the Daisy Queen evolved from a business venture into a much-loved family project. The restaurant became a gathering place where family traditions were created, and it’s been serving the community with love ever since.

In 2003, Jeff Mays and his wife Robin took over the reins from Jeff’s parents. Their dedication to maintaining the same high standards has made The Daisy Queen a beloved local landmark. The restaurant has continued to thrive, and families from all over eagerly search the horizon for the Daisy Queen sign, knowing their bellies will soon be full of delicious eats.

Photo courtesy of Julie Kohl

The Daisy Queen offers a menu that’s as satisfying as it is varied, with something to please every palate. While there are nearly 70 items, many diners are drawn to the classic cheeseburger, a timeless favorite. My husband never passes up the chance to indulge in one of these juicy burgers paired with a side of crispy fries or golden onion rings. Something about the simplicity and flavor keeps him coming back for more.

As for me, I’m all about the Chicken Colby. This sandwich, loaded with tender grilled chicken, bacon, melty cheese, and a drizzle of honey mustard, is one of my favorites. The combination of flavors is just perfect, and it’s hard to resist. On the lighter side, the Daisy Queen offers a chef salad packed with fresh ingredients and a taco that’s a local favorite for those craving something a bit different.

Photo courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.

Their footlong chili dog, smothered in cheese and slaw, is another popular offering I choose when I am extra hungry. Our son George, however, faces a tough decision every time we visit. For him, it’s always a toss-up between a plain burger, crispy chicken nuggets, and a corn dog. No matter what he chooses, though, he’s always happy with his meal.

And then there are the desserts. We can’t leave The Daisy Queen without indulging in one of their homemade fried pies. The chocolate pie is our favorite, especially when we top it with a scoop of ice cream. It’s the perfect sweet ending to our meal, and it’s become a tradition for us to share one before we hit the road again.

Photo courtesy of Julie Kohl.

One of our favorite traditions during our visits to The Daisy Queen is a bit of friendly competition. My husband has taught our son to play pool at the restaurant, and it’s become a cherished part of our stops. It wouldn’t be a complete trip without this playful father-son showdown, which always adds an extra layer of fun to the visit and gives us ample time to stretch out our legs.

For those planning a trip to The Daisy Queen, it’s worth making a day of it and exploring the surrounding area. The Ozark National Forest offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. Clinton provides a charming small-town atmosphere, and Harrison boasts historic sites and scenic views. Here are a few of our favorite stops along the way.

Flea Markets and Antique Shops
Chuckwagon Races
Serenity Farm Bread
Kenda Drive-In
St. Joe Train Depot Museum
Rush: An Arkansas Ghost Town
Buffalo River
Hiking the Buffalo National River
Gilbert: The Coolest Town in Arkansas
A Fun-Filled Visit to Harrison
Maplewood Cemetery
Balloon Festival

So, next time you’re traveling on Highway 65, plan a visit to The Daisy Queen. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a slice of local history and will surely become part of your family’s travel traditions.

Cover photo courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.

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Julie Kohl works from home as a writer and teaches art part-time at a local private school. A former Yankee who was "converted" to the south by her husband, Julie has grasped on to rural life in a sleepy, blink-your-eyes-and-you'll-miss-it town in central Arkansas where they raise chickens, farm hay and bake bread. Julie loves adventure and sharing it with her husband and son. They frequent the trails, campgrounds and parks of Arkansas, always on the hunt for new adventures and new stories to share. Learn more on her blog Seek Adventures Media.

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