If you’re cruising through Conway County and find yourself craving a home-cooked meal, there’s one place you absolutely can’t miss: the Bucket List Café. Tucked away off Highway 9 between Morrilton and Center Ridge, it’s the kind of hole-in-the-wall gem that could easily slip by if you’re not paying attention. But trust me, you’ll want to make a stop.
I first heard about the Bucket List Café from my friend Matt Jackson, a local from Morrilton, who swore up and down that it was one of the best places for a hearty meal in the area. He introduced me to it a few years ago when I was writing about some of Arkansas’ best rural eateries, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
What makes the Bucket List Café stand out? Simple. They serve up huge portions of delicious food at prices that won’t make you second-guess your decision. There’s no flashy sign out front—just a humble metal building with a loyal crowd of regulars. And once you step inside, you’ll quickly see why it’s packed five days a week.
A Menu That’ll Keep You Coming Back
On our most recent trip, my buddy Lewis and I couldn’t resist the special of the day: a big, steaming bowl of smoked chicken and sausage gumbo. It was rich, flavorful and just the right amount of spice—like something you’d find in the heart of Cajun country. The side of cornbread and a grilled cheese sandwich were the perfect pairings, making it a meal we won’t soon forget.
I tried to convince Lewis to share a Fried Filookie with me—a deep-fried, chocolate-chip cookie cake with molten chocolate inside, all smothered in ice cream and syrup. But he was too stuffed to even look at dessert (though he did grab a cinnamon roll to go, so he’s not totally off the hook). If you’re in the mood for something sweet, though, the Filookie is an absolute must-try!
The menu at Bucket List is as big as the portions they serve. From plate lunches to burgers, salads, and breakfast staples, there’s something for every craving. Here are a few favorites:
Lunch & Dinner:
• The Salty Sam Hoagie – Locally made Italian sausage, homemade sauerkraut, three cheeses, grilled onions (it’s seriously one of the best sandwiches I’ve had in Arkansas).
• Big Nasty – Philly meat smothered in brown gravy with shredded cheese on a hoagie bun.
• Plate Lunches – Choose from favorites like hamburger steak, ribeyes, pork chops, chicken-fried steak, and even catfish and shrimp.
Breakfast:
• The Sloppy Sherryl – Hash browns, biscuits, eggs, and your choice of ham, bacon, sausage, or bologna, all smothered in gravy (talk about a hearty start to the day!).
• 55-Gallon Lid Pancake – Yep, it’s as big as the top of a 55-gallon drum. Finish it in an hour or less, and it’s free!
And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re in luck. The Bucket List also serves up Fried Twinkies and homemade pies that’ll make you forget about every other dessert you’ve ever tried.
A Local Staple
When you walk into the Bucket List Café, it feels like home. There’s no fancy decor—just good food, great company and a crowd of regulars who wouldn’t dream of eating anywhere else. It’s not just a place to grab a bite; it’s a part of the local culture.
Matt and I aren’t the only ones who swear by this spot. Locals like Betty, who’s been coming here for years, rave about the friendly atmosphere and the consistently tasty food. “It’s where everyone knows your name,” she says, with a smile. “I’ve never had a bad meal here.”
So, What Are You Waiting For?
Next time you’re near Conway County, do yourself a favor and drop by the Bucket List Café. Whether you’re in the mood for a monster-sized pancake, a plate lunch piled high with comfort food or something sweet to finish it all off, you won’t leave hungry (and you might leave with a to-go bag!).
Check out their Facebook page here or give them a call at 501-893-9840 for more info. And when you get there, tell ’em I sent you!
