One step inside Barnett’s Dairyette in Siloam Springs and your blood pressure will lower. One bite of a cheeseburger and you’ll be transported home to the diner that will forever occupy a space in your heart. For me, that would be the Yellow Jacket Cafe and the Shake Shack, both in Keiser, Arkansas.
Both long gone.
John and I visited Barnett’s a few month’s ago. We were on official assignment. Actually, John was on a photography assignment, and I acted as his handy-dandy assistant. You see, during summer term, John took a photography class at the University of Arkansas. His final project was a photo essay of sorts, a story told in old-school, black and white print photographs.
In a way, we collaborated. He used a play I wrote—Last Call at the Dairy Freeze—for visual storytelling inspiration. Barnett’s Dairyette provided the perfect setting.
John’s photos turned out great, but you’ll have to take my word for it. Maybe someday you’ll see his photographs displayed and my play performed.? For now, I’m sharing a few of the pictures I took while there. And I hope if you live in northwest Arkansas, you’ll be motivated to hop in the car and head to Barnett’s for supper tonight. If you live elsewhere, there must be a throwback diner you can visit for a burger, malt, and a blast to the past?
Barnett’s Dairyette opened in 1957 and stayed in the Barnett family until 2002. The current owner is doing a fine job of keeping the Barnett charm and retro vibe alive.
The dipped cone was everything it should be!
And the burger? See for yourself…
Perfect bun sheen.
It’s a good thing I don’t live in Siloam Springs. I’d want to eat there everyday.
Thank you to the fantastic folks at Barnett’s who let us set up equipment, stage photos, and hang out for a while.
(Top left: Original Menu)
Seriously, sometimes nothing but an old-fashioned burger will do.
Grace Grits and Gardening
Farm. Food. Garden. Life.
[tweetthis]Barnett’s Dairyette = old-fashioned burgers + dipped cones + hometown memories @siloamsprings #nwark #TuesdayThoughts[/tweetthis]
Musical Pairing:
Buddy Holly, Everyday
Love the idea of your collaboration and wish I could see his final project. One of our hangouts was the Frozen Delight. They sure were patient with us.
Next time you’re here I’ll show you!