Popular Arkansas Dairy Bar Reopens After 10 Months
Kream Kastle Drive Inn, the beloved walk-up diner on U.S. Highway 70 in Benton, Arkansas, has finally reopened its doors after a 10-month hiatus. The iconic dairy bar and country diner, which has been a staple for travelers between Hot Springs and Benton, shut down last summer, leaving behind a trail of nostalgia and sadness among its faithful customers.
The closure sparked widespread concerns about its fate, but thanks to the new management, led by Heather and Ray Queen of Salem Dairy Bar, Kream Kastle has been revived. The Queens took over operations after receiving immense support from the community, eager to preserve the nostalgia and charm of this legendary dining spot.
The new owners held a soft opening earlier this month to iron out operational wrinkles and fine-tune their menu, which includes favorites like burgers, chili dogs, and ice cream. Barbecue will also be added to the menu, with pork, beef, and ribs in the pipeline. Additionally, the popular spicy popcorn chicken is set to make a comeback, much to the delight of its eager fans.
The grand reopening was marked by an enthusiastic call from the owner herself, Heather Queen, to “pack the house.” The response was overwhelming, with people flocking to experience the revitalized Kream Kastle. As the Queens embark on this new chapter, they remain committed to maintaining the iconic diner’s spirit while introducing their own unique touches, ensuring that it continues to be an oasis for travelers and a beloved institution in the local community.
