Fortunately for barbecue connoisseurs such as myself, Arkansas is home to a fantastic array of barbecue restaurants. From the well-loved Dixie Pig in Blytheville (Mississippi County) to McClard’s Bar-B-Q in Hot Springs (Garland County), the Natural State offers an impressive selection that promises to satisfy any barbecue lover's cravings. Jones Bar-B-Q Diner in Marianna (Lee County) is among the most celebrated barbecue spots in Arkansas and nationwide. This remarkable diner isn't just known for its delicious smoked meats; it also boasts a rich history as one of the oldest black-owned restaurants in the United States, proudly serving mouthwatering smoked meats for over a hundred years.
The diner’s story dates back to at least the early 1900s, with some accounts tracing its roots to the 1890s. Founded by the Jones family, it has been lovingly passed down through generations, keeping its promise of simple yet unforgettable barbecue. Today, James Jones proudly carries on that tradition, dishing out the same classic flavors that put the diner on the map in Arkansas and far beyond.
Jones Bar-B-Q Diner chooses to keep things simple in a world of complex menus. The star of the show? Pulled pork sandwiches, served on two pieces of plain white Sunbeam bread with a tangy red vinegar-based sauce. The pork is slow-cooked over a wood fire, giving it a rich, smoky flavor that has diners returning time and again. This straightforward menu allows the quality and tradition of the barbecue to shine through.
The building itself is simple as well. Diners find themselves in a cozy little room lined in cinderblock. The walls tell stories through old photographs, Arkansas memorabilia, and magazine and newspaper clippings. Originally, the restaurant was located in downtown Marianna and was named The Hole in the Wall. The restaurant moved to its current location in 1964 and took the name Jones Bar-B-Q Diner.
Jones Bar-B-Q Diner shot to national fame when it received the prestigious James Beard Foundation’s America’s Classics Award in 2012. This accolade honors small, regional restaurants that truly embody the spirit of their communities, solidifying the diner’s reputation as a must-visit destination for barbecue aficionados from coast to coast. Many people in the culinary world view the Beard award as one of the most prestigious accolades a chef or restaurant can receive. In 2017, the restaurant was among the first inducted into the Department of Arkansas Heritage’s Arkansas Food Hall of Fame.
Sadly, on February 28, 2021, a fire broke out at the restaurant, but thanks to the quick response of firefighters, they managed to keep the flames restricted to the pit area. Determined to bounce back, owner James Harold Jones successfully raised funds for the rebuilding effort. The restaurant celebrated its grand reopening on July 14, 2021.
Located at 219 West Louisiana Street in Marianna, Jones Bar-B-Q Diner is more than just a dining spot; it’s a piece of Arkansas history that’s alive and well. Despite its well-earned reputation, it’s a cozy, no-frills establishment where the focus is squarely on delicious food and a friendly atmosphere. The restaurant shuts its doors when the meat is no longer available, which can happen as early as 11:00 a.m. on busy days. Many patrons start arriving by 7:00 a.m. to secure their barbecue fix.
For anyone eager to savor genuine Southern barbecue in its most authentic form, a visit to Jones Bar-B-Q Diner in Marianna is a must. With a rich heritage spanning over a century and acclaim that reaches far beyond our state’s borders, this restaurant truly showcases the enduring values of tradition, family, and outstanding cuisine.
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