14 Arkansas BBQ Buffets That Keep Ribs And Slaw Classic And Delicious
Arkansas knows how to do barbecue right, and these buffet spots prove that ribs and slaw can stay timeless and irresistible.
From smoky, fall-off-the-bone meats to perfectly tangy sides, locals flock to these tables for flavor that hits every note.
Each bite carries the warmth of Southern tradition and the kind of comfort food that makes you linger for seconds, maybe thirds.
If you’ve ever wondered where Arkansas keeps its barbecue secrets, these 14 buffets show that classic flavors never go out of style and that every visit is a chance to taste something unforgettable in the Natural State.
1. Ridgewood Brothers’ BBQ — Russellville, AR
Smoke rolls out of this place like a welcome mat, pulling you in before you even park.
Ridgewood Brothers’ BBQ sits at 2120 East Main Street in Russellville, and locals treat it like a second home.
Their buffet spreads out ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and all the fixings you’d expect from a spot that’s been perfecting its craft for years.
The building itself has that classic roadside charm with big windows and a sign you can spot from blocks away.
People rave about the fall-apart ribs slathered in a sauce that’s sweet with a little kick.
The slaw here is crisp and vinegary, cutting through the richness of the meat perfectly.
Fun fact: the brothers actually started smoking meat in their backyard before opening the restaurant.
Portions are generous, so come hungry and leave happy with a to-go box.
2. Dondie’s White River Princess Restaurant — Des Arc, AR
Perched right along the White River at 704 Buerkle Road in Des Arc, this buffet feels like stepping onto a riverboat without leaving land.
Dondie’s has that old-school river town vibe with wood paneling and nautical touches that make you feel like you’re dining on the water.
Their buffet features tender ribs with a glossy glaze, catfish that’s fried to golden perfection, and coleslaw that’s creamy and tangy in equal measure.
The building’s design nods to its riverboat heritage, complete with a deck where you can watch the water roll by.
Locals love the hush puppies here, which are crispy outside and fluffy inside.
The BBQ sauce has a tomato base with a hint of molasses, making it stick to your ribs in the best way.
Rumor has it the original owner named the place after his daughter.
It’s a family spot through and through.
3. Wood Grill Buffet — Benton, AR
Everything here gets kissed by real wood smoke, and you can taste the difference in every bite.
Wood Grill Buffet is located at 17309 Interstate 30 North in Benton, right off the highway for easy access.
The buffet line stretches long with ribs, smoked turkey, brisket, and sides like mac and cheese, green beans, and that essential coleslaw.
The interior has a lodge-like feel with wooden beams and warm lighting that makes the whole place cozy.
Their ribs are the star, rubbed with spices and smoked low and slow until they practically melt.
The slaw is classic cabbage-based with a creamy dressing that balances the smoky meats.
One fun detail: they rotate special smoked items weekly, so regulars always find something new.
Prices are reasonable, and the staff keeps the buffet stocked and fresh throughout service.
It’s a no-frills spot that lets the food do the talking.
4. The Kitchens Buffet (Southland Casino Hotel) — West Memphis, AR
Casino buffets often get a bad rap, but The Kitchens at Southland Casino Hotel breaks that mold with serious BBQ chops.
You’ll find it at 1550 North Ingram Boulevard in West Memphis, inside the casino complex.
The buffet offers a massive spread including ribs with a sticky-sweet glaze, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and coleslaw that’s both creamy and crunchy.
The space is modern and sleek with high ceilings and plenty of seating, designed to handle big crowds without feeling cramped.
What sets this place apart is the variety beyond BBQ, but the ribs and slaw hold their own against standalone joints.
The meat is tender, the sauce is balanced, and the portions are unlimited.
Here’s a quirky fact: the buffet changes themes throughout the week, but BBQ is always available.
It’s perfect for a splurge meal after trying your luck at the tables.
5. Corky’s Ribs & BBQ — Little Rock, AR
Memphis-style BBQ found its way to Arkansas through Corky’s, and Little Rock is better for it.
Located at 10310 North Rodney Parham Road, this spot brings Tennessee tradition to the Natural State.
The buffet spreads out Memphis dry-rubbed ribs, pulled pork, BBQ spaghetti (yes, really), and classic coleslaw that’s tangy and refreshing.
The building has a casual, family-friendly design with brick accents and BBQ memorabilia on the walls.
Corky’s is famous for their dry rub, which forms a flavorful crust on the ribs without drowning them in sauce.
The slaw here is mustard-based, giving it a unique twist compared to mayo-heavy versions.
Cool fact: Corky’s started as a single restaurant in Memphis in 1984 and has since become a regional favorite.
Their ribs have won countless awards, and the buffet lets you try everything without committing to one dish.
It’s BBQ heaven for the indecisive.
6. Brown’s Catfish — Russellville, AR
While catfish takes center stage here, the BBQ buffet at Brown’s holds its own with ribs and slaw that rival dedicated BBQ joints.
You’ll find it at 2215 East Main Street in Russellville, in a building that looks like a classic Southern fish shack.
The buffet includes tender ribs with a tomato-based sauce, fried catfish, hush puppies, and coleslaw that’s creamy with a hint of sweetness.
The interior is simple and no-frills with checkered tablecloths and a down-home vibe.
People come for the catfish but stay for the ribs, which are smoked just right and fall off the bone.
The slaw complements both the fish and the BBQ, acting as a cool contrast to the rich flavors.
Little-known fact: Brown’s has been a Russellville staple for decades, and the recipes haven’t changed much over the years.
It’s comfort food at its finest, served with a smile.
7. Ole Sawmill Cafe — Forrest City, AR
Rustic doesn’t begin to describe this place, located at 2301 North Washington Street in Forrest City.
Ole Sawmill Cafe looks like it was built from reclaimed barn wood, complete with sawmill equipment as decor.
The buffet offers hickory-smoked ribs, pulled pork, fried chicken, and sides including tangy coleslaw and baked beans.
The meats are smoky and tender, cooked in a traditional pit smoker out back.
The building’s design pays homage to Arkansas’s lumber industry, with wood beams, old saws hanging on walls, and a general store feel.
It’s like eating in a piece of history.
The ribs here are meaty and coated in a sauce that’s not too sweet, letting the smoke flavor shine through.
The slaw is vinegar-based, providing a crisp contrast to the rich meats.
Fun fact: the cafe actually incorporates parts of an old sawmill in its construction.
Locals love it for its authenticity and hearty portions.
8. Ed’s Catfish & BBQ — Jonesboro, AR
Jonesboro locals know Ed’s as the place where catfish and ribs share the spotlight equally well.
Sitting at 2524 East Highland Drive, this spot has been feeding hungry folks for years.
The buffet features fall-apart ribs with a peppery dry rub, fried catfish, pulled pork, and coleslaw that’s creamy and slightly sweet.
The building is unassuming from the outside but warm and welcoming inside with knotty pine walls and family photos.
Ed’s ribs get smoked for hours until they’re tender enough to pull apart with a fork.
The slaw is traditional cabbage-based, dressed with mayo and a touch of sugar for balance.
What makes this place special is the family atmosphere and consistent quality.
The original Ed still stops by to check on things, even though his kids run the day-to-day operations now.
Prices are affordable, and the buffet stays stocked even during the dinner rush.
It’s honest food done right.
9. Tadpole’s Catfish Barn — Pleasant Plains, AR
Tucked away at 8360 Stagecoach Road in Pleasant Plains, Tadpole’s has that barn aesthetic down to a science.
The building actually looks like a big red barn, complete with a tin roof and rustic signage.
Their buffet includes tender smoked ribs, fried catfish, chicken tenders, and all the sides you’d expect, including coleslaw that’s crisp and tangy.
The meats are prepared fresh daily, and the smoke flavor is prominent without being overpowering.
Inside, the barn theme continues with hay bales, farm tools, and country decor that feels genuine rather than gimmicky.
The ribs here are glazed with a sauce that has a nice balance of sweet and heat.
The slaw is vinegar-based, cutting through the richness of the fried foods and BBQ.
It’s a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
Quirky detail: the restaurant hosts live country music on weekends, making it a full experience.
Families fill the place on Friday nights for food and entertainment.
10. Quitman Catfish Barn — Quitman, AR
Small-town charm radiates from this spot at 1101 North Main Street in Quitman, where everyone seems to know everyone else.
Quitman Catfish Barn has that hometown feel with a simple building design and a big front porch.
The buffet features smoky ribs, fried catfish, chicken strips, and sides including creamy coleslaw and fried okra.
The ribs are meaty and tender, with a rub that’s more savory than sweet.
The building itself is modest but well-kept, with picnic tables outside for warm weather dining.
Inside, the decor is minimal, letting the food take center stage.
People drive from neighboring towns just for the ribs, which are smoked on-site in a custom-built pit.
The slaw is traditional and refreshing, with finely shredded cabbage and a creamy dressing.
Fun fact: the owner used to be a truck driver and started the restaurant after retiring.
His road trip experiences inspired the menu’s variety and generous portions.
11. Huckleberry’s Catfish Buffet — Searcy, AR
Searcy residents flock to Huckleberry’s at 3204 East Race Avenue for a buffet that never disappoints.
The building has a country lodge feel with stone and wood exterior and a covered entrance that keeps you dry even in Arkansas rain.
The buffet spreads out tender ribs with a sweet and smoky sauce, fried catfish, hush puppies, and coleslaw that’s both creamy and tangy.
The meats are cooked fresh throughout the day, ensuring quality no matter when you arrive.
Inside, the decor features fishing and hunting memorabilia, giving it that authentic Arkansas outdoors vibe.
The ribs here are fall-off-the-bone tender, and the sauce has a hint of honey that makes them addictive.
The slaw is finely chopped with a mayo-based dressing that’s not too heavy.
It’s the perfect side to balance the rich BBQ and fried foods.
Interesting note: Huckleberry’s started as a small takeout joint before expanding into the full buffet it is today.
12. Hidden Creek Catfish — Conway, AR
Conway’s Hidden Creek sits at 1720 Harkrider Street, and the name fits perfectly with its tucked-away location near a wooded area.
The building has a cabin-like exterior with natural wood siding and a welcoming front porch.
The buffet features hickory-smoked ribs, fried catfish, chicken tenders, and sides including tangy coleslaw and fried green tomatoes.
The ribs are meaty and coated in a sauce that’s tangy with a touch of sweetness.
Inside, the rustic theme continues with wooden tables, creek-themed artwork, and a casual atmosphere that makes you feel at home.
The slaw here is vinegar-based, providing a crisp, refreshing contrast to the smoky meats.
People love the fried green tomatoes, which pair surprisingly well with BBQ.
The buffet stays well-stocked, and the staff is attentive without hovering.
Fun fact: the restaurant sources its catfish from local farms, ensuring freshness.
It’s a Conway favorite for family gatherings and casual dinners alike.
13. Abe’s Ole Feed House — El Dorado, AR
Southern hospitality reaches its peak at Abe’s Ole Feed House, located at 1804 Junction City Road in El Dorado.
The building resembles an old-timey feed store with vintage signage and a wraparound porch that invites you in.
The buffet offers tender smoked ribs, fried chicken, pulled pork, and sides including creamy coleslaw and collard greens.
The ribs are the highlight, smoked low and slow with a dry rub that creates a flavorful crust.
Inside, the feed store theme continues with antique farming equipment, burlap sacks, and country decor that feels authentic.
The slaw is traditional and refreshing, with a creamy dressing that’s not too sweet.
The sauce is served on the side, letting you control how much you want.
It’s a vinegar-based sauce with a peppery kick that complements the smoky meat perfectly.
Quirky fact: Abe’s has been featured in several regional food magazines for its authentic Southern cooking.
Locals consider it a treasure worth protecting.
14. McClard’s Bar-B-Q — Hot Springs, AR
At McClard’s Bar-B-Q, 505 Albert Pike Rd, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913, smoke meets tradition in a way that feels perfected over generations.
Rib trays, beans, and slaw arrive with flavors that linger and comfort like an old friend.
The ribs are lacquered with a peppery bark that crackles with each bite, tempting you to take another forkful before you even finish the first.
The buffet rhythm keeps trays hot, sauces ready, and cornbread steady, ensuring everything is served at its peak.
Cool creamy slaw and crisp dill pickle chips offer a refreshing contrast, while the beans carry a whisper of spice that pairs perfectly with a glass of sweet tea.
And don’t skip the pie; locals swear it’s the ideal finish after a second helping, a sweet punctuation to a savory feast.