The Common Grounds – Fayetteville, Arkansas

by Adrienne Wilson on

In every city, no matter how big or small, I always seem to find at least one spot that manages to surprise in multiple ways. For Fayetteville I hadn’t a clue what that place might be until I accidentally stumbled into the Common Grounds for breakfast one morning. Located minutes away from the University of Arkansas, in historic Dikson Fayetteville, the strip where the Common Grounds sits tucked away, is surrounded by many local flavors. And if getting your day started with a fresh cup of gourmet espresso is priority you’ll have tons to choose from at the Common Grounds. Not being a big coffee drinker myself, I suggest you check out the website for an idea of what roasts, blends, beans and aromas you’re destined to discover by swinging through.

I went big, all out and ordered the Meaty Belgian, a Belgian waffle sandwich layered with two eggs, American cheese and a sausage pattie. Accompanying my delish breakfast sandwich was a small cup of fresh fruit and to top it off I had an ice-cold smoothie. Certainly one of the most filling meals I’ve ever started my day off with and not too bad on the pockets I’d surely go back to fuel up again if in Fayetteville. Superb service, warm smiles and a very nice atmosphere makes the Common Grounds highly inviting. Stumble in for yourself.

The Common Grounds is located at 412 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, AR 72701. Ph. 479.442.3515.

Siam Palace – Bentonville, Arkansas

by Adrienne Wilson on

Good Thai cuisine in Bentonville, Arkansas was the last thing I expected to find, but a slight change of plans lead me and my hungry, exhausted, walking troop to Siam Palace. We strolled in to find the restaurant had only been open for a few days which gives me the perfect opportunity to be one of its first critics. So without further delay allow me to give you the delectable low-down.

Anyone entering Siam Palace for the first time will instantly feel at ease from the soft, pale, greenish-yellow freshly coated walls, dimly lit lights, and various aromas drifting from the kitchen. For a second it almost feels as if you’ve stepped into a dining area adjacent to a soothing spa where the host greets you with a smile warmer than the Thai sun and happily escorts you to your seats. (There are two ways to dine at Siam Palace: the Western way and the Eastern way. My party opted for the Eastern way seated on the floor.) Once settled in order a cool glass of Thai tea. It’s sweeter than most, but not as much as sweet as a dessert. For the main meal – If you’re in the mood for something both sweet and slightly tart order the pineapple chicken dish in a special Siam sauce. If noodles are a priority, sample some traditional style Pad Thai with their own special twist.

Judging from all the happy faces and tummies in my group I figured you could order almost anything off the menu and be pleased all the same if you had opted for a slightly different dish. I enjoyed my experience so much I tried making one last late lunch visit the following day, but found they were closed for a two-hour period of the day. If you’re anywhere near or around Bentonville, make sure this one gets placed on your list of dining destinations. You won’t regret it!

Siam Palace is located at 3404 SE Macy Road Suite 20, Bentonville, AR 72712. Ph. 479.254.8559. Hours vary since the plaza is fairly new with several new businesses springing up. Be sure to call ahead to make sure they are open. Most dishes range from $10-$15.