Jones Bar-B-Q Diner is a legendary, historic barbecue destination located in the small town of Marianna, Arkansas. Recognized as the oldest Black-owned restaurant in the United States and a prestigious James Beard Foundation America’s Classics award winner, this unpretentious roadside establishment has been serving authentic wood-smoked pork to the local community and traveling food enthusiasts for well over a century. Operating with ultra-focused simplicity and classic pitmaster tradition, Jones Bar-B-Q Diner delivers an unforgettable taste of living culinary history.
Cash only (Checks accepted; no credit or debit cards)
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible seating and parking
Atmosphere
Casual, cozy, historic, unpretentious
Parking Features
Free parking lot and free street parking with plenty of spaces
Amenities & Planning
Restroom on-site, good for kids, suitable for individual diners or small groups
Why Visit? Key Highlights
Living Culinary History: A celebrated landmark that has been operating for over 100 years, recognized as the oldest Black-owned restaurant in the country.
James Beard Honoree: Recipient of the prestigious James Beard Foundation America’s Classics Award for exceptional regional character and food quality.
Masterful Pitmaster Craft: Old-school wood-smoking techniques yielding tender pulled pork shoulder with a signature vinegar-and-cayenne pepper sauce.
Pure Simplicity: Focuses on pure quality with a hyper-streamlined focus on pork sandwiches, bulk barbecue, slaw, and refreshing drinks.
Phenomenal Value: Highly affordable roadside dining experience that delivers authentic flavor and warm, friendly hospitality.
Menu & Offerings
Barbecue Specials
Item Name
Description
BBQ Sandwich
Tender pulled pork shoulder served on white bread, topped with signature vinegar-cayenne sauce and coleslaw.
BBQ by the Pound
Whole pounds or half-pounds of slow-smoked pulled pork shoulder packed to go.
BBQ Pork Shoulders
Whole smoked pork shoulder prepared using traditional wood-fired pit techniques.
Sides & Sauces
Item Name
Description
Coleslaw
Crisp, house-made slaw served on sandwiches or sold separately by the pint, quart, half-gallon, or gallon.
Signature BBQ Sauce
Tangy vinegar and cayenne-based barbecue sauce available by the pint, half-gallon, or gallon.
Snacks
Selection of individual chip bags, cookies, cakes, and pies.
