Bob's Grill Deserves Its Status as a Conway Landmark

For the first time in its history, Conway has a wide variety of dining options. The explosive growth has attracted such national chains as Chili's and Outback, but if you want a taste of Old Conway for a cheap price, Bob's Grill is the place to be.

Far from the antiseptic sameness of Dixie Café or Cracker Barrel, Bob's Grill is an unimpressive store front in the heart of downtown Conway. The tables are white formica, and the floors are also non-descript off-white tile. Steam tables line the back of the dining area, where the day's entrees and vegetables wait to be served up to the never ending stream of regular customers.

Bob's Grill isn't a tradition grill-type restaurant. The food is all served cafeteria style. You pay only for what you take, and entrees and vegetables are rotated daily. The business has changed hands several times in the last several years, but each new owner is aware of the history of Bob's Grill and are protective of the atmosphere and reputation of the Conway landmark.

On a recent visit, the entrée of the day was fried catfish fillets. Two catfish fillets, side orders of turnip greens and macaroni and cheese, and a glass of tea still came in at just under $5.00. The food was served up with a friendly smile, and the serving area was bright and clean.

The food was hot and fresh, which is not always the case with foods from a steam table. The catfish was slightly salty, but not overly so. The turnip greens were spiced and seasoned with pork, and the macaroni and cheese tasted home made. With a small price tag, it would make sense if the portions were small, but the fillets were plump and the side portions were generous. You can walk in the door with a five dollar bill in your pocket and leave satisfied.

The clientele is skewed slightly to the upper end of Conway's age range, and many of the customers eat at Bob's Grill daily. However all guests are greeted like they are regulars and help is provided with ordering if you need it. The dining area fills up quickly at lunch, so come early or be prepared for a short wait for a table. Bob's Grill also serves breakfast when it does a brisk business. Parking is free in front of the grill, with a parking lot around the corner behind the kitchen.