Growing up in Ashdown, Arkansas, family dinners were a special treat. If my mom didn’t have supper started by the time my dad came home from work, we’d often go out to eat at one of the local restaurants.

There were a handful of options to choose from: Herb’s Creamland, the Tastee-Freez, or Mac’s Cafe. Each had its own unique charm and menu items that we loved.

Herb’s Creamland

Herb’s was a favorite of mine and my sister’s. We’d always get the Herb Burger combo, which came with crinkle cut fries, a drink, and an ice cream cone. If we’d been good, my dad would let us get a chocolate dipped cone.

The Tastee-Freez

The Tastee-Freez was another popular spot. They had hamburgers, but the usual choice was a chili dog. They also had fries and milkshakes – 100 flavors to choose from! My favorite was the coconut milkshake.

Mac’s Cafe

Mac’s Cafe was the closest thing to fine dining in Ashdown. It was actually a truck stop, but the food was great. The hot steak sandwich was a favorite of mine – a battered and fried beef cutlet served on top of toast and smothered in gravy.

Unfortunately, Mac’s and the Tastee-Freez are no longer in business. Herb’s is the only one still around, and I try to stop in for a Herb Burger and fries whenever I’m back in town.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.