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Read More about this safari issue.Are you looking for a quiet spot to meet up with friends on the Bentonville Square or to get some work done and enjoy good food and drink? Oven & Tap is your place!
In 2014, co-owners Mollie Mullis and Luke Wetzel opened Oven & Tap, a warm and inviting restaurant just steps from the downtown Bentonville Square.
I still remember the first time I went there. It was a work lunch, and the atmosphere immediately had everyone in a good mood. Well – to be honest – the atmosphere AND the appetizers! This is a “feel good” restaurant,
Like its name, Oven & Tap serves wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, locally-inspired Southern-inspired dishes like fried chicken, and seasonal drinks and dishes. They pride themselves in emphasizing local farms and ingredients.
The restaurant is super cozy, with an entrance on the back and front sides and patios when the weather is good.
Or, skip the food and belly up to the tap. That’s a great place to stop if you want to create your own “progressive dinner” with all the excellent restaurants in downtown Bentonville.
Even if you go to Oven & Tap for the appetizers, you’re going for the right reason. I will always get the Fried Mozz, fried mozzarella balls with parmesan, herbs, and red sauce. They’re delicious and hearty. I also recommend the side of Castelvetrano Olives, which are soft and buttery Sicilian olives.
Oven & Tap also has small plates. So again, if you go with a small or hearty appetite, you’re covered. I recommend Roasted Cauliflower with marinated peppers, pine nuts, golden raisins, and capers for a touch of salt. You can never go wrong with a plate of Salt and Vinegar Potatoes with parmesan and chopped herbs.
The wood-oven-fired pizzas are delicious, and I recommend starting with the Margherita for pure simplicity. I’m a sucker for the Pizzeria Salad, which is piled high with cucumbers, olive, red onions, parmesan, and salad peppers. I always order this with a side of chicken, although I always ask nicely if the chicken can be fried. Fried chicken will always win my heart.
Oven & Tap is a great spot to have local brews on tap. They also change up the cocktail menu by the season. Some drinks stay on the menu, and some are only available briefly, so I recommend you come throughout the year.
On my last visit, I fell in love with the Flannel Jacket, a cocktail with bourbon, spiced apple cider, and honey. This is available only for the autumn and winter, so time is ticking. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, crisp, and smooth.
Oven & Tap
215 S Main Street #3
Bentonville, AR 72712
479-268-5884
HOURS:
Sunday-Monday – Closed
Tuesday-Saturday – 11 AM – 10 PM
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