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Part of me, a big part of me, is thankful that I do not live closer to The Original ScoopDog in North Little Rock. If I did, there would probably be an extra 15 pounds around my waistline.
Yes, I’m glad a 19-minute drive separates my front door from ScoopDog’s drive-thru.
Those who live in the neighborhood know about this classic frozen custard and hot dog stand that has been serving up happiness for the past 20 years. And while ScoopDog is open year-round, there is not a better time to enjoy its cool treats than in the summertime.
The big draw for folks is ScoopDog’s extensive variety of specialty concretes, a name given for thick, creamy frozen custard with often multiple flavorful mix-ins. In case you were wondering, here’s a comprehensive list of the offerings: Fudge Brownie, Cherry Bomb, Bread Pudding, Mint Chocolate Chip, Coffee Roast, Rice Krispie, Butter Pecan, German Chocolate, Strawberry Cheesecake, Key Lime Pie, Mint Oreo, Tropical, Rocky Road, Whoopie Pie, Turtle, Cherry Pie, Banana Nut Bread, Strawberry Shortcake, Nature Mix, Pralines N’ Cream, Junk Yard Dog, and Birthday Cake.
Hungry yet? Oh, and did I mention the custard is made on site?
For a toned-down version of the specialty concretes, ScoopDog offers one-ingredient mix-ins with a vanilla or chocolate custard base. Choose from mix-ins like banana, cherries, peanuts, and hot fudge. They also offer vanilla and chocolate custard by-the-scoop in several sizes.
Affectionately-named sundaes like the Good Ole Beagle, Golden Retriever, Standard Poodle, Chocolate Lab, and Dignified Chow Chow round out the specialty dessert menu. And you’ll also find an assortment of shakes, floats, and seasonal drinks. Truth be told, I’ve yet to partake in one of these. But I can’t imagine they are any less spectacular than the concretes.
Those lacking a sweet tooth can try their hand at a Frito pie, some nachos, or one of ScoopDog’s pure beef hot dogs. My kids usually opt for a hot dog with just ketchup. But ScoopDog ramps up the excitement with specialty dogs that pay tribute to various cities like Chicago, Detroit, New York, and Kansas City. Don’t worry, Arkansas, there’s even The Sooey Dog with sweet and spicy barbeque sauce, bacon, onions and celery salt.
Just know, there is one critical thing to remember before heading to SnoopDog. They do not, I repeat, do not accept credit cards. It is cash and checks only. Believe me. You do not want to be caught in the drive-thru with ravenous, concrete-crazed kids, only to realize you need to bolt to the nearest ATM before everyone in the car can get their fix. This may have happened to me the first time I visited.
It will not happen again.
If you live in the North Little Rock area, set aside some time and calories this summer for ScoopDog. You won’t be disappointed.
Did You Know?
Frozen custard cakes are also available, as is custard by the quart.
The Original ScoopDog
5508 JFK Blvd (North Little Rock)
Phone: (501) 753-5407
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
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