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Finding the Pizzaz in Downtown Bentonville

Bentonville has a lot going for it these days—art, culture, cycling, trails—but let’s be honest, sometimes all you really want is a good slice of pizza. Thankfully, Downtown Bentonville has no shortage of spots serving up pies that range from wood-fired Neapolitan style to hearty, pub-style pizzas you can share. Whether you’re strolling the square after visiting Crystal Bridges, grabbing a casual dinner with friends, or fueling up before a ride, here are four must-try pizza places right in the heart of downtown.

• Tavola Trattoria

Hours: Mon-Thurs 11 AM – 9 PM  | Fri-Sat 11 AM – 9:30 PM  | Sunday 1 - 8 PM

Tavola is the kind of spot where you walk in and immediately feel like you’ve been transported to a cozy Italian trattoria. Tucked just off the square on the brand new A Street promenade, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, with exposed brick, candlelit tables, and the smell of fresh dough and garlic in the air. While Tavola’s menu spans a wide range of Italian classics like pastas, salads, and small plates, it’s their pizza that really shines.

The pizzas are thin-crust, wood-fired, and topped with fresh, simple ingredients that let the flavors speak for themselves. My personal favorite is the Margherita. It’s hard to beat the classic combo of tangy tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil. But if you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, the Salsiccia (with Italian sausage and roasted peppers) is a crowd-pleaser. Pair your pizza with a glass of red wine or a local draft beer, and you’ve got yourself a trip to Italy right here in Downtown Bentonville.

• Oven & Tap

Hours: Tues–Sat 11 AM – 10 PM | Sun 11 AM - 9 PM | Closed Mondays

If Tavola is classic Italian, Oven & Tap is modern Bentonville. This spot has a stylish, industrial feel, with big windows and a lively energy, especially on weekends. Their name says it all: they’re known for their wood-fired oven and impressive lineup of beers on tap. Oven & Tap’s pizza is chewy, blistered, and slightly smoky from the oven—exactly what you want from Neapolitan-inspired pies. My personal favorite is the Sweet Joe. Think your typical delicious pepperoni pie with a little garlic oil and drizzled with honey. It’s savory, rich, and totally unique to their menu. Their plain pepperoni pizza is another go-to, made with spicy, crispy edges that curl up just right. And here’s a tip: if you come on a Sunday, stick around for their brunch menu—wood-fired breakfast pizzas paired with mimosas are not to be missed.

• Pedaler’s Pub

Hours: Tues-Sun 11 AM - 11 PM

Pedaler’s Pub is exactly what it sounds like: a casual, bike-friendly pub that has become a go-to hangout for locals. Located just off the square, it’s especially popular with the cycling crowd who stop by for a post-ride beer and a hearty slice. The vibe here is laid-back and welcoming, making it the perfect place to come with friends when you’re not dressed up.

Their pizzas lean more toward the hearty, American-style end of the spectrum—crispy crust, loaded toppings, and big enough to share. The “Pedaler’s Special” is packed with meats and veggies, a great choice if you’re hungry from the trails. If you’re into spice, the “Hot Hawaiian” with jalapeños and pineapple is a surprisingly delicious combo. Bonus: their beer selection is solid, with plenty of local and regional options that pair perfectly with a cheesy slice.

• The Meteor Café

Hours: Open Everyday 7:15 AM - 8:45 PM

The Meteor is one of those spots that’s hard to define in just a few words. It’s a café, a bike shop, a bar, and yes, a surprisingly great place to grab pizza. Located in a sleek space with modern design and plenty of natural light, The Meteor is a community hub where cyclists, coffee lovers, and foodies all seem to intersect.

The pizza here is a bit different than the others on this list. Think lighter, more artisanal pies with inventive toppings. Their seasonal pizzas rotate often, featuring fresh local ingredients that make every visit a little different. One week you might find a prosciutto and arugula pizza drizzled with balsamic glaze, and the next you could be enjoying something with roasted squash or farm-fresh tomatoes. If you want to pair your slice with a drink, they’ve got you covered—from craft coffee during the day to natural wines and cocktails at night.

Final Slice

Downtown Bentonville might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think “pizza destination,” but the options here are impressive. From Tavola’s cozy Italian vibe to Oven & Tap’s inventive wood-fired creations, Pedaler’s Pub’s hearty, shareable pies, and The Meteor’s fresh, artisanal approach, there’s truly something for every pizza lover.