Keith Neel | Bear Like Things
How does one become the Burger Bear?
It really started when I was a kid, sharing burgers with my dad. Those simple moments sparked my love for a good burger and the stories that come with it.
Fast forward to 2023, and I began sharing that passion on social media through Bear Like Things, highlighting great burgers, local spots, and the places that make this area special. What started as something fun quickly turned into a way to connect with others who appreciate a solid bite as much as I do.
I've worked in downtown Springdale for 14 years, and I always jokingly say it's "bear territory." Over time, I've come to realize that Springdale has a strong burger scene. Last year, I had the honor of serving as a judge at the annual NWA Miracle League Burger Competition in downtown Springdale, which was a blast.
After all these years (and plenty of burgers), I'd love to share a few of my favorites with you.
Patrick's Burgers
3976 Elm Springs Rd, Springdale, AR 72762
No Springdale burger list would be complete without Patrick's, an original local favorite and a true staple of the community. This place is burger nostalgia. With 55 years of flipping burgers, they've clearly mastered the craft.
There is a distinct, seasoned flavor you can only get from a flat-top that's been working hard since the seventies. If you're craving a classic, old-fashioned burger done right, this is the spot that hits the mark.
The Bear's Order: Double Bacon Cheeseburger (bacon, mustard, ketchup, and pickles)
Pleasant Counter
907 S Pleasant St, Springdale, AR 72764
Pleasant Counter made an immediate impact on the Springdale burger scene with a smashburger that quickly had everyone talking, and for good reason. Known for using local ingredients and grass-fed beef, they've truly got this burger dialed in.
That dedication paid off when they took home top honors at the Northwest Arkansas Miracle League Burger Competition in 2023 with this standout burger. Pleasant Counter has set the bar high when it comes to a smashburger.
The Bear's Order: Double Smashburger (American cheese, grilled onions, house Japanese mayo, organic ketchup, add pickles)
Gaskins on Emma
100 W Emma Ave #115, Springdale, AR 72764
While Gaskins is primarily recognized as a premier dinner destination, its weekday lunch menu offers a hidden gem: exceptional burgers.
As you'd expect from a steakhouse, the quality of the beef truly shines in their burgers. Chef Sam Walker takes a minimalist approach to the classic burger. His simple execution highlights the caliber of the ingredients, demonstrating that a great burger doesn't require excessive toppings to excel.
The Bear's Order: Gaskins Smash Burger (shallot jam, pickles, white cheddar)
Westside Burger & Grill
3896 Elm Springs Rd, Springdale, AR 72762
Another longtime favorite in Springdale, this burger joint has been winning over locals since 1995. There's nothing quite like the sound of patties sizzling on the flat-top as you place your order.
Westside serves up burgers made with Black Angus beef, and the consistently packed lunch crowd tells you all you need to know. It's the kind of place where you might find yourself enjoying your burger right out in the parking lot and not minding it one bit.
The Bear's Order: Double Bacon Cheeseburger (bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles)
Na'guara
3445 S Old Missouri Rd, Springdale, AR 72764
This is where we take a step away from your typical burger.
Na'guara, a Venezuelan food truck at Broadwalk Food Truck Park in Springdale, brings bold Latin flavors to the table. They serve up unique, culture-inspired burgers that skip the usual toppings—no pickles here. Instead, you'll find sweet corn, crispy potato sticks, and a rich garlic sauce piled high.
And for the cheese lovers: they don't hold back.
It's the perfect spot to break your burger routine.
The Bear's Order: Bacon Cheeseburger (bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, corn, potato sticks, and signature garlic sauce)
Ray Dubbz – Soul Food and More
4407 S Thompson St, Springdale, AR 72764
Located on the outskirts of Springdale, Ray Dubbz is a standout food truck celebrated for its warm hospitality and delicious comfort food. Though widely recognized for soul food classics such as pork chops, ribs, and fried catfish, their cheeseburger is pretty dang good and a must-try.
It easily claims the title of the biggest burger on this list. One bite in and it's easy to see that the food here is made with love and a little extra soul.
The Bear's Order: Cheeseburger (lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, mustard, ketchup)