BENTONVILLE -- Those missing Fred's Hickory Inn don't have to wait for its building to be rebuilt, as one of the city's most iconic food establishments recently opened a food truck.
Greg Cockrum, general manager, said he had the idea of opening a food truck before the restaurant at 1502 N. Walton Blvd. closed after catching fire last fall. The food truck would provide another outlet to serve food and capture a new group of customers who don't go as far north on Walton Boulevard as the restaurant, he said.
The food truck is set up in the parking lot of South Walton Spirits, just south of Boomerang Car Wash on the boulevard's west side. It opened May 8 and will be at that location for at least three months.
The truck has a rustic look with bricks painted on the bottom half. It's what was appealing to Cockrum when looking for a truck to buy.
"It looked a lot like Fred's," he said.
The menu includes Fred's classics like the pork sandwich, its popular smoked sirloin sandwich, the half chicken, ribs that have been smoked for 10 to 12 hours and its homemade slaw and beans.
One addition is Fred Fries. They are seasoned with a house-made dry rub.
"It's been a hit," Cockrum said.
A bulk menu is also offered at the food truck.
Fred Fries will be offered at the restaurant when it reopens. Three types will be available: Fred fries, truffle fries and parmesan truffle fries.
Food from Fred's Hickory Inn is available at the restaurant's trailer at 1104 S. Walton Blvd., next to South Walton Spirits liquor store.
Orders can be called in ahead of time and picked up at Fred's Hickory Inn food truck. The number is (479) 866-2663. Hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. They are closed on Sunday.
NAN Dining Guide Spotlight on 05/29/2015