13 Arkansas BBQ Buffets That Prove Ribs And Slaw Are Still A Perfect Pair
Barbecue in Arkansas is simple, hearty, and made to satisfy. Across the state, buffet-style spots serve ribs with deep smoke flavor and coleslaw made fresh each day.
These places often sit off main roads or in quiet towns, but they draw steady crowds who know what to expect. The focus is on doing things the right way, not the fast way.
Whether you’re passing through or live down the street, these buffets offer a steady plate of what Arkansans have been eating for generations. No frills, just solid barbecue.
1. Brown’s Catfish (Russellville)
Russellville locals swear by Brown’s weekend BBQ spread that transforms their famous catfish joint into a carnivore’s paradise.
Tender pork ribs glisten under heat lamps while tangy slaw provides the perfect cooling contrast. The buffet features classic sides like baked beans and cornbread.
Weekend warriors flock here after Arkansas Tech games, creating a lively atmosphere that makes every meal feel celebratory.
2. Ole Sawmill Cafe (Forrest City)
Step into this converted sawmill where the aroma of hickory smoke mingles with nostalgic industrial charm.
Their buffet showcases fall-off-the-bone ribs that pair beautifully with house-made slaw featuring just the right vinegar kick. Generous portions ensure nobody leaves hungry from this eastern Arkansas gem.
The rustic atmosphere tells stories of the building’s lumber mill past while serving up modern comfort food excellence.
3. Ed’s Catfish & BBQ (Jonesboro)
Jonesboro’s Ed’s pulls double duty, mastering both catfish and barbecue with equal finesse on their popular buffet line.
Smoky ribs compete for attention with golden catfish, but the creamy coleslaw bridges both worlds perfectly. Students from Arkansas State University consider this their unofficial cafeteria during finals week.
The casual atmosphere and reasonable prices make Ed’s a community gathering spot for families and college crowds alike.
4. Tadpole’s Catfish Barn (Pleasant Plains, Near Batesville)
My grandmother used to drive thirty minutes just for Tadpole’s Sunday buffet, claiming their rib and slaw combination was worth every mile.
This family-owned barn serves up authentic Arkansas flavors with ribs so tender they practically fall apart when you look at them. Their tangy slaw recipe hasn’t changed in decades.
The rural setting provides peaceful dining away from city crowds, making every visit feel like a countryside escape.
5. Quitman Catfish Barn (Quitman)
Quitman’s catfish barn knows that variety keeps customers coming back, so their buffet rotates between different BBQ styles throughout the week.
Wednesday rib nights feature Memphis-style dry rub alongside traditional Arkansas wet sauce options. The accompanying slaw provides cool relief from the smoky heat.
Local farmers and town folks gather here after long workdays, creating an authentic small-town dining experience that visitors absolutely love.
6. Country Village Catfish & Seafood (Star City)
Star City’s Country Village elevates the catfish house concept with a buffet that rivals big city establishments.
Their signature ribs showcase a secret spice blend that locals try unsuccessfully to replicate at home. Creamy coleslaw made fresh daily provides the perfect palate cleanser between rib servings.
The country decor and friendly service make visitors feel like they’ve discovered a hidden gem in southeastern Arkansas.
7. Huckleberry’s Catfish Buffet (Searcy)
Searcy’s Huckleberry’s proves that catfish restaurants can master barbecue just as well as their aquatic specialties.
Weekend BBQ additions to their regular buffet include ribs glazed with a sweet molasses sauce that complements their vinegar-based slaw perfectly. The combination creates flavor harmony that keeps customers returning weekly.
College students from Harding University particularly appreciate the unlimited refills policy and student-friendly pricing structure.
8. Hidden Creek Catfish (Conway)
Conway’s Hidden Creek lives up to its name, tucked away but worth finding for their exceptional weekend barbecue buffet.
Hickory-smoked ribs share space with their famous catfish, while house-made coleslaw adds refreshing crunch to every plate. The hidden location creates an intimate dining experience away from main road traffic.
University of Central Arkansas families often celebrate special occasions here, appreciating the quiet atmosphere and generous portions.
9. The Kitchens Buffet, Southland Casino Hotel (West Memphis)
Casino dining reaches new heights at Southland’s Kitchens Buffet, where BBQ ribs compete with international cuisine options.
Their weekend rib station features both dry and wet preparations alongside casino-quality sides including premium coleslaw. The upscale buffet setting elevates the traditional rib and slaw experience significantly.
Gamblers fuel up here before hitting the floor, while families appreciate the diverse menu options beyond typical casino fare.
10. Wood Grill Buffet (Benton)
Benton’s Wood Grill specializes in wood-fired cooking that infuses their buffet ribs with authentic smoky flavors impossible to replicate with gas.
The wood-fired preparation creates a distinctive taste that pairs exceptionally well with their crisp, refreshing coleslaw recipe. Local barbecue enthusiasts consider this the gold standard for central Arkansas.
The open kitchen concept lets diners watch pitmasters work their magic, adding entertainment value to the dining experience.
11. Corky’s Ribs & BBQ, Sunday Buffet (Little Rock)
Little Rock’s Corky’s transforms their regular menu into an impressive Sunday buffet featuring their award-winning ribs and signature sides.
Memphis-style dry rub ribs headline the spread, complemented by their famous tangy coleslaw that has garnered regional recognition. Sunday brunch crowds mix barbecue with traditional breakfast items.
The capital city location attracts both locals and tourists seeking authentic Arkansas barbecue in an established restaurant setting.
12. Great Hall Buffet, The Great Passion Play (Eureka Springs)
Eureka Springs’ most unique dining experience combines dinner theater with exceptional barbecue in a truly memorable setting.
Before or after the famous Passion Play, guests enjoy buffet ribs and coleslaw in a grand hall atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Arkansas. The theatrical setting adds drama to every meal.
Tourists from across the country discover that the food matches the spectacular show quality, creating lasting vacation memories.
13. Abe’s Ole Feed House (El Dorado)
El Dorado’s Abe’s Ole Feed House concludes our journey through Arkansas with a buffet that embodies everything great about southern barbecue.
Their pit-smoked ribs and traditional coleslaw represent the perfect marriage of smoke and crunch that defines Arkansas barbecue culture. The feed house atmosphere creates authentic rural dining vibes.
Oil town workers and families alike gather here, proving that great barbecue brings communities together across all walks of life.