Haven 55: fall into a new season of dining out

As life continues to return to normal and fall is just around the corner, it’s time to venture out and explore hidden gems in the area. One of those gems is Haven 55: a unique dining experience just over the border in Pineville, Missouri.

The restaurant just a short jaunt from Northwest Arkansas, but worlds away from the hustle, crowds, parking lots and long waits at other area eateries. The cozy dining room is nestled among the trees every table has a view of Little Sugar Creek, the green, and the wildlife.

Watch Mortimer, a great blue heron, scanning for his dinner while you choose yours from a satisfying menu that the establishment likes to call “fine casual dining.”

The creations are the art of executive Chef Alan Bone. Alan hails from Pineville, where he started cooking as a teenager. He went on to graduate with top honors from Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Orlando, working and studying under several chefs before coming back home to open his own restaurant about 10 years ago.

The establishment is a close-knit family effort, with Alan’s fiancée Micah working the front, listening to customers and fine-tuning the experience.

This is slow food at its best, Micah points out.

“Everything that comes out of this kitchen is prepared to order. Sauces are sautéed while your chicken is cooking, and everything is timed perfectly. It might take a little longer, but all Alan’s dishes are prepared fresh.”

There are creative chicken and pork dishes with complementary rubs and sauces, a wide variety of fresh seafood offerings, unique and delicious sandwich creations and certified Angus burgers and steaks.

“The New York Strip with blue cheese sauce is our best seller, and we have a big following for Prime Rib night,” says Micah, “But my personal favorite is the 8-ounce sirloin prepared the way Alan does it.”

Get your reservations in early to partake in Haven 55’s Wednesday Prime Rib night—a mid-week tradition worth planning ahead for.

Haven 55 is open for lunch and dinner, and either one is a great chance to try their fantastic fried green bean appetizer served with a creamy horseradish dip.

You’ll want to come early and grab a drink from the Tavern while you wait for your reservation on Friday or Saturday.

It’s open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, and “The Tavern” is open on Friday and Saturday nights and serves house crafted pizzas and other tavern fare. It stays open later than the restaurant to extend your night out, and they have regular live performances by local artists, as well as karaoke every Saturday night. Visit haven55.com and keep an eye on the Haven 55 Facebook page for changing specials, a more detailed schedule of upcoming events, or to view their menu.

A meal at this hidden gem is more than just lunch or dinner; it’s fine dining in its natural state. Be sure to call ahead for reservations.