Hi Fork friends! 👋

It’s a busy week around the River Valley — from Thanksgiving meal planning to concerts, theatre, and new breakfast spots worth trying.

Pull up a chair and let’s dig in. 🍴

Thanksgiving is fast approaching in the River Valley, and locals have a variety of ways to celebrate, from dining out or reserving to-go feasts to joining free community meals.

The Living Thanksgiving Guide features a growing list of options including classic buffets at Prima Italia and Village Inn in Fort Smith, plus several spots offering smoked turkeys and holiday sides for pickup, like Rub ’Em Tender BBQ and Art’s BBQ & Grill.

Looking for a warm welcome? The Salvation Army, East Side Baptist Church, Gray Rock Community Center, Burger Barn in Muldrow, and The Bonanza Hangout are offering free community dinners open to all.

The guide is updated weekly—residents can contribute by sharing meal opportunities on Facebook.

Start planning now to ensure your Thanksgiving is delicious and community-filled, whether you’re gathering with friends, neighbors, or family.

This week brings more than just turkey chatter — discover standout concerts, performances, and one-of-a-kind local happenings to check out.

Odie’s Diner in Van Buren is earning a reputation as a go-to spot for a classic, no-fuss breakfast.

The diner’s clean, welcoming atmosphere instantly makes guests feel at home, thanks to a friendly staff known for treating everyone like a regular.

A recent visit included omelets, hash browns, pancakes, and bacon — each dish arrived hot, flavorful, and generously seasoned.

The pancakes and bacon combo stands out as a must-try, delivering that perfect blend of sweet and savory.

Breakfast at Odie’s easily earns a thumbs up, with plans already in the works to sample their lunch and dinner soon.

If you’re in the Van Buren area and hungry for a satisfying morning meal, Odie’s Diner deserves a spot on your list.

🍕 COMING NEXT WEEK: Fork’s Top 5 Pizza

We’re kicking off a new weekly series where we highlight Top 5 favorites across the River Valley — and we’re starting with… PIZZA.

Have a go-to slice?

Think your favorite spot should be #1?

We want to hear it!

👉 Drop your nomination on our Facebook thread
and help shape next week’s rankings.

Stay tuned — Fork’s Top 5 Pizza hits your inbox next issue.

🍽️ Become a Fork Partner

River Valley Fork reaches engaged local diners every week — people who love to explore new restaurants, events, and experiences across the River Valley.

Promote your business or event with us —
placements start at just $49.

✅ Great for restaurants
✅ Great for bakeries & food trucks
✅ Great for events & entertainment

👉 Reply to this email to get details
or ask about seasonal bundle pricing.

💬 Got a Tip?

Know a great local meal, event, food truck, happy hour, or new hotspot we should check out?

We’d love to hear from you —

just reply to this email or message us on Facebook.

Fork exists to help people discover delicious + memorable experiences around the River Valley — and your submissions make it better every week.

That’s it for this week!

Thanks for reading — and for helping build a more connected, delicious River Valley.

Share this newsletter with a friend who loves discovering new places to eat, and don’t forget to send us your tips.

Until next time —

Stay curious, stay hungry.
🖤 — River Valley Fork