You probably wouldn't think that Northwest Arkansas would be the place to find really amazing Vietnamese food. Until recently, you would have been correct. But not anymore!
Saiwok Restaurant in Rogers, Arkansas is tucked away in the back of a strip mall with another restaurant blocking your view in front of it. It is worth looking for, though. The newly built eatery has both a modern and a county feel, so perfect for the region. It is clean and inviting, while maintaining a totally casual feel.
The menu looks like typical Vietnamese food at first glance. When you look closer, you'll find that all the traditional foods have a contemporary tweek infused with a little Ozark influence. For instance, pork belly french fries. The cashier highly recommended these, stating that everyone wants to try them and eveyone loves them. She was so right. Not only were they gigantic, well-priced and mind-blowingly delicious, but they were too much to eat so we took them home. Several hours later, still full but unable to put the fries out of mind, they were somehow still crunchy and fabulous. Most fries don't even make it directly home from a drive-thru without getting soggy and gross, but these were still fantastic the next day.
In addition to french fries that will amaze and astound you, Saiwok has a full menu of soups, salads, rice dishes, appetizers and desserts. We had several different items and each one was more delicious than the next. I was waiting for disappointment, but it never came. There are also big screen televisions, communal seating, and a well-stocked full-bar to complete the out on the town experience.
This family-owned restaurant is a one-of-a-kind Northwest Arkansas treasure. Even if you're afraid to try Vietnamese food, get over it and visit this restaurant. Soon and often! You will not be disappointed.
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