Located in Gentry, Arkansas
Welcome to The Wooden Spoon, your go-to destination for delicious homemade meals in Gentry, AR. We take pride in our ability to create mouthwatering dishes using only the freshest and finest ingredients available.
Our restaurant boasts a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a night out with family and friends or a quick lunch break. Our menu offers a wide range of options, including sandwiches, salads, soups, pies and entrees that are sure to satisfy any appetite.
At The Wooden Spoon, we specialize in home-style cooking with a twist. Our signature dishes include our famous chicken fried steak, meatloaf, and pot roast, all made from scratch with love and care.
In addition to our regular menu, we also offer catering services for all your events, big or small. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, or a family gathering, we can create a customized menu that will impress your guests and make your event memorable.
So, come visit us at The Wooden Spoon and experience the comfort of home-cooked meals with a modern flair. We look forward to serving you!
Best pies, desserts, and home cooking in Northwest Arkansas
Guaranteed Good Food
Daily Specials
Check out one of our daily specials!
Blue Plates Special of the Day:
Southern Grilled Cheese & Fried Green Tomatoes
Golden, buttery grilled cheese paired with crispy fried green tomatoes and a warm bowl of our creamy Tomato Basil Soup. The perfect comfort food combination!
Soups of the Week:
Creamy Tomato Basil
Steak & Potato
Loaded Potato
Handheld of the Week:
Breakfast Burger
Our fresh, never-frozen hand-pressed beef patty is stacked high with crispy bacon, griddled ham, an over-hard egg, melted American cheese, and finished with our creamy pepper spread.
Salad of the Month:
BBQ Chicken Bacon Ranch Salad
Fresh mixed greens topped with shredded carrots, mixed cheese, cherub tomatoes, purple onions, crispy bacon, and juicy grilled BBQ chicken, all finished with our delicious BBQ Ranch dressing.
Friday Night Specials:
Blackened Salmon
Seasoned to perfection and topped with a rich, creamy Cajun sauce.
Spaghetti & Meatballs
Classic spaghetti served with hearty meatballs and our savory marinara sauce.
Poppyseed Chicken
A comforting house favorite featuring tender chicken in a creamy poppyseed sauce with a buttery, golden topping.
Reviews
See what Northwest Arkansas has to say about The Wooden Spoon.
Rolonda Thompson
3 weeks ago
The food was worth the wait. Excellent service and scrumptious food.
J.S. Matkowski
3 months ago
The Wooden Spoon was a really pleasant stop. The food was tasty, the portions were generous, and the menu had an excellent selection without feeling overwhelming. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you actually got a real meal, which is apparently becoming an endangered species.
The restaurant was clean and comfortable, and the service was excellent from start to finish. Everyone was friendly, attentive, and made the experience feel easy and welcoming. I had lunch, and it left a strong impression: good food, good atmosphere, and the kind of local service that makes you want to come back.
Definitely worth stopping in if you’re in or near Gentry and want a solid meal with large portions and a hometown feel.
The restaurant was clean and comfortable, and the service was excellent from start to finish. Everyone was friendly, attentive, and made the experience feel easy and welcoming. I had lunch, and it left a strong impression: good food, good atmosphere, and the kind of local service that makes you want to come back.
Definitely worth stopping in if you’re in or near Gentry and want a solid meal with large portions and a hometown feel.
Kayla Fletcher
5 months ago
The CARAMEL PECAN PIE. Dear heavens. That was the most delicious pie I have ever eaten in my entire life. Amazing service, amazing dinner meal, and fun atmosphere. I would highly recommend going here, even if just for a quick dessert! Everything was great!
Sherman Miller
5 months ago
Dining at The Wooden Spoon was an absolutely wonderful experience that truly captures the heart of small-town hospitality and comfort food done right. From the moment I arrived, it was clear this is more than just a place to eat — it’s a place where guests are genuinely welcomed and treated like family.
The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and relaxed. There’s a cozy charm to the space that makes you feel comfortable right away. It’s the kind of restaurant where you can enjoy a peaceful breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a hearty dinner without any rush. The setting feels authentic and welcoming, creating the perfect backdrop for a laid-back and enjoyable meal.
The service was exceptional from start to finish. The staff were friendly, attentive, and genuinely kind. They made sure everything was just right while maintaining a relaxed, welcoming approach. You can tell they truly care about their guests and take pride in creating a positive dining experience.
Now, the food — the true standout.
Every dish tasted fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared. There’s a clear emphasis on quality and comfort, with meals that feel homemade in the best possible way. Portions were generous, and each bite delivered satisfying flavor that left a lasting impression.
The menu offers a great variety, making it easy to find something for everyone. Whether you're craving something hearty and savory or something lighter, everything is made with care and attention to detail.
Presentation was simple yet appealing — focusing on substance and flavor rather than unnecessary complexity. It’s honest, comforting food that reminds you of the best home-cooked meals.
The pacing of service was also perfect. Food arrived promptly without feeling rushed, allowing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the experience.
Cleanliness and organization throughout the restaurant were noticeable and appreciated, adding to the overall comfort of the visit.
Overall, The Wooden Spoon delivers exactly what you hope for in a local dining spot — delicious food, warm service, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting Gentry or passing through the area looking for a truly enjoyable meal in a friendly setting.
The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and relaxed. There’s a cozy charm to the space that makes you feel comfortable right away. It’s the kind of restaurant where you can enjoy a peaceful breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a hearty dinner without any rush. The setting feels authentic and welcoming, creating the perfect backdrop for a laid-back and enjoyable meal.
The service was exceptional from start to finish. The staff were friendly, attentive, and genuinely kind. They made sure everything was just right while maintaining a relaxed, welcoming approach. You can tell they truly care about their guests and take pride in creating a positive dining experience.
Now, the food — the true standout.
Every dish tasted fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared. There’s a clear emphasis on quality and comfort, with meals that feel homemade in the best possible way. Portions were generous, and each bite delivered satisfying flavor that left a lasting impression.
The menu offers a great variety, making it easy to find something for everyone. Whether you're craving something hearty and savory or something lighter, everything is made with care and attention to detail.
Presentation was simple yet appealing — focusing on substance and flavor rather than unnecessary complexity. It’s honest, comforting food that reminds you of the best home-cooked meals.
The pacing of service was also perfect. Food arrived promptly without feeling rushed, allowing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the experience.
Cleanliness and organization throughout the restaurant were noticeable and appreciated, adding to the overall comfort of the visit.
Overall, The Wooden Spoon delivers exactly what you hope for in a local dining spot — delicious food, warm service, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting Gentry or passing through the area looking for a truly enjoyable meal in a friendly setting.
z1ppy
7 months ago
If you're looking for great down home cooking and comfort food cuisine, you can find it here. I had the chicken fried steak and my lovely bride had the meatloaf. Completely satisfied! Our server was the sweetest person we've encountered in some time. We'll eat here again.
Update Feb 16 2026 - we've made this our default stop when coming in to Gentry. Very pleased. Even with a busy dining room with lots of big groups we got good service. The food was very good as usual.
Update Feb 16 2026 - we've made this our default stop when coming in to Gentry. Very pleased. Even with a busy dining room with lots of big groups we got good service. The food was very good as usual.
Paul Cate
7 months ago
Oh my homestyle cooking that will send your taste buds into orbit, you can definitely over eat here with all the scrumptious menu items at The Wooden Spoon, and their pies are homemade just like grandma used to make. We had the classic blt with chips , its a good thing my wife and I split the meal. The classic blt is huge meal for one person to eat. We also got the chocolate pie, oh my my taste buds was doing backflips over the creamy texture of this chocolate pie, they have different pies to select from, one is the bumblebee pie(loaded with all the fruit you like) , coconut cream pie must be the favorite because they were out the day we visited. The Wooden Spoon has a kids menu too for the little ones. It's worth the drive to Gentry Arkansas to satisfy those hunger pains at The Wooden Spoon (check online what days there open).
Joe Van Hooser
8 months ago
Good food. Desserts were excellent. Chicken fried steak was good. Hamburger was good, although there is no option on how it is cooked. It's a big patty though. The brownie was excellent. Gooey and succulent without being undercooked. The bread pudding was very good. It was a bit more breadlike than I'm accustomed to, but it was great. I will definitely be back.
Julia Moore
10 months ago
The food was DELICIOUS seriously loved the Mac n cheese and Cobb salad! Will definitely go again. The dessert options were plentiful too.
Brad Wagnon
12 months ago
We’ve been wanting to go to this place for years. Took off work a little early and got there by 5:30. Place was packed. About a 45 minute wait but it was worth it. Service was great. Our waitress told the owner we had taken off work and he came over and thanked us for coming. They have rotating specials on Friday nights (the only night they are open for dinner). I had the steak tips and my wife had the ribeye sandwich. We will be back.
Jeannie Brown
12 months ago
Really good home-cooked food. I especially enjoyed the baked potato soup which was super creamy and delicious. Also had shepherd's pie and broccoli salad.
Jeremy moore
12 months ago
Food was ok but I realize it’s home cooked so I’m not trying to be picky - the desserts were amazing!
Would definitely come back again!
Would definitely come back again!
C B
1 year ago
We've eaten here several times over the years, and we've loved it. This time, we had to write a review. Calleigh B, our waitress was amazing, sweet, personable....the food was mmm mmm good. Normally, places will turn people away when it's close to closing time. Or give them bad looks. I saw people coming in shortly before closing, and they closed while waiting on their food. And the waitresses were so friendly in spite of it. I would definitely recommend coming 💕
Marinda Huisamen
1 year ago
The chicken fried chicken is possibly the best i’ve had in the USA 😍 but everything we’ve eaten here has been incredible. The sides, the mains, the specials, the pies - all incredible. The peach iced tea is so refreshing too. Highly recommend! Just know you might wait for a table, but it’s worth it.
Jennifer Tippet
1 year ago
A quaint country restaurant with made from scratch dishes. Weekly special meals and of course the menu too. The potato salad was the bomb!!! But you definitely need to try the bumblebee and chocolate pies!!! The service was great it felt like family.
Raymster
1 year ago
Folks from a lunch catfish meal on 5-30-25, I am going to rate this restaurant at a 4.3. I ordered the 3 piece catfish meal. The catfish pieces were really on the small side, one was very thin, another had a large grey skin streak which gave it a very fishy taste. The 3rd piece was ok other than being small. This was not my first time or first catfish meal here. Previous ratings were 5.0's. Something has changed!
Spike Speedwell
1 year ago
Many great salads to choose from. Wraps, Chicken Strips, a Burger and Fish. And then there are the desserts. A rural farm décor and atmosphere with classy modern feel. Check the pictures, especially the desserts. Everything is a delicious as it looks.
Mennonite ladies in their traditional conservative attire provide the superb service. Comfortable seating. An extremely popular restaurant. Go Early!
Mennonite ladies in their traditional conservative attire provide the superb service. Comfortable seating. An extremely popular restaurant. Go Early!
Autumn Mollet
1 year ago
It's just as good as it was 10 years ago! Good made from scratch home cooking! Their homemade lemonade was great and so was our food. The stellar star is their pie - bumblebee is the best! Highly recommend a stop in if you're close!
Philip Larson
1 year ago
Jenna and the staff at the Wooden Spoon are so warm and courteous, it completes the whole “home cooked” experience. I’ve lived in NWA/NEO over the past 33 years and their chicken fried steak is the best I’ve ever had. Not to mention the 3 desserts my wife and I split. We will be back whenever we need our next hearty meal
Tim Kreiner
1 year ago
The food, here, is always excellent and a bit of a different twist on country food restaurants. The wait staff has always been pleasant, and the prices are quite reasonable. I don't want to spoil it, so I won't mention the interesting history of the inside decor. I often take clients and business associates to lunch, there, when I am in that area. Our family likes the take-home and re-heat meals as well. One piece of advice... come hungry.
Daniela Timmons
2 years ago
Have gone there twice already and every time the food has been delicious. Did not get any pictures since we were hungry but we got catfish and meatloaf. The cat fish was delicious per my husband and the meatloaf was so good I ate it all. We took dessert to go and even that was amazing!!!! The staff is so nice too🥰🥰 10/10 would recommend
Aaron Dewitt
2 years ago
I’d give the Service 10 stars. Shaina was fantastic. The food was very good from the breading on the catfish to the chicken. Good proportions and excellent flavor. I’d recommend the peach tea for sure, and dessert as well. We drove about an hour out of our way and were glad we did! I appreciated the limited menu.
Rob Shaffer
2 years ago
Enjoyed my meal here. Got the steak sandwich. Thinking it was going to be a Philly. It’s not it’s a whole steak on a sandwich. It was delicious. The Mac and cheese was awesome. Service was very friendly. I will be coming back. The desserts are to die for.
Came back again and got pictures this time.
Came back again and got pictures this time.
Kymble Johnson
2 years ago
This is a must-visit restaurant in NW Arkansas. Everything is homemade and to die for. They have some great options for all different taste buds. You’ll for sure find something you like. I got the meatloaf with mac and cheese, and we finished it off with some cheesecakes and pies. Also, the breading they use for the fried chicken and fish is some of the best I’ve ever had. I love this place!
Jen Fox
3 years ago
I have eaten here many times and it was wonderful as usual! Staff is always friendly and food is southern comfort! And I LOVE their flavored tea!
Mellissa Jones
3 years ago
Fabulous, delicious, did not disappoint.... so glad that we made the short drive to eat at this charming restaurant. I always try to eat at local restaurants and so glad I do because of places like yours. Shelly was absolutely wonderful. All of the staff was so friendly and took the best care of everyone. We only had a short wait and had our meal in short time after ordering. Will definitely make this a place to go when in the area again.
Nicholas Neil
3 years ago
Fantastic. The limited hours make it a challenge to eat here, but is certainly worth the effort! The service is kind and efficient. The food is very generous and delicious. The pies….. are to die for. Even if you are full from the generous portion, make sure to get a slice of pie to go! You will not be disappointed.
Andrea Barnett
3 years ago
Always delicious! The chicken fried chicken meal is my favorite, but you really can't go wrong. Love their peach tea. Also, their desserts are very tasty. I alternate between their chocolate pie and their coconut pie.
Rene Janssen
3 years ago
Best salad i ever had in my life. 6 layer lemoncake was really delicious. Share it because its BIG.
Will Carter
3 years ago
The Wooden Spoon is always a NWA classic. Everything from their starters to desserts is awesome, and you can’t go wrong with anything, but I recommend the potato soup and club sandwich.
Brock Hardcastle
3 years ago
I love the Wooden Spoon. All the entrees are great and the desserts are INCREDIBLE. I got the dessert sampler with the bread pudding, key lime cake, and cobbler. As always, it put me as near to a state of culinary euphoria that you can humanly reach.
John Parker
4 years ago
Food was great. It took 1.25hrs to get in though. They just don't move the people through fast enough so the line gets long. It took our waitress a good 10-15min to get to our table for drink orders. We ordered drinks and food at the same time, that's how long we looked at the menu.
Ordered the daily special, chicken fried chicken, and it was amazing. The peach tea is amazing. Dessert was a carrot cake and caramel pecan cheesecake. The cheesecake is OMG good. The carrot cake was a little too sweet but still good.
I paid for 2 meals, 2 drinks and 2 desserts and the total before tip was $59.29. In my opinion, thats too expensive for lunch at this restaurant in Arkanas even with dessert.
Ordered the daily special, chicken fried chicken, and it was amazing. The peach tea is amazing. Dessert was a carrot cake and caramel pecan cheesecake. The cheesecake is OMG good. The carrot cake was a little too sweet but still good.
I paid for 2 meals, 2 drinks and 2 desserts and the total before tip was $59.29. In my opinion, thats too expensive for lunch at this restaurant in Arkanas even with dessert.
Tom Allen
4 years ago
After many have told us we needed to try this place, we finally made it. It was a 55 minute drive and a 30 minute wait to see what all the talk was about. This building is actually a very old horse barn that was torn down and moved to Arkansas, The timber are incredible. All the staff are nice, prompt and professional. I had the chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes after reading all the reviews. While it was very good, I was reminded later that my body doesn't like fried foods any more. I also had the peach cobbler. It was very different than any I have had before, it was cut in a square and firm. However it was excellent. It was a very good experience and if we are ever in the area again, we will stop by.
big michael kaufman
4 years ago
The wooden spoon is an excellent place to eat! However it is so popular, if you want to eat in, I recommend that you prepare to wait in line for a good period of time. We love to go over and get many of the items that they have to go! They are frozen in the freezer and you can take them home and heat them up at your convenience! Since the owners are affiliated with a religious organization, their hours of operation in the evening and weekends are limited so check before you go! You want me to support it :-)
Shane Vaughan
4 years ago
Very unique place. Made from scratch food and reminds me of my great grand mothers cooking. Check opening hours and come early, or else you will wait to be seated (but worth it no matter the wait).
Andrew C
4 years ago
I visited friends in Arkansas during Labor Day weekend and am so glad they took me here to eat. Hands down one of the best meals I’ve ever had in my life! The ribeye sandwich with pasta salad and gourmet potatoes was made to perfection and, by far, the best bread I’ve ever eaten. It would have been worth visiting Arkansas just to have eaten here!
Clarissa D
4 years ago
Delicious! Just great! Great food, pleasant atmosphere, outstanding quality, and an all around awesome experience! This is quality food, not fast food, and so the price will reflect that. Expect to pay a minimum of around $15 per person and that price will increase if you order a soft drink or a dessert. ( The desserts looked delicious ) You may also experience a long wait time, so if you are in a hurry, this may not the best choice for you. However, at some point, you need to make this experience a priority.
paul childress
4 years ago
Had the best Valentines day dinner. The food was fresh and seasoned to perfection. They were running behind for our reservation but it was Valentines night. Wait staff seemed a little over whelmed at times but with the food it made up for the wait.
