20 Nov 2014 Legends Restaurant

by Don Bingham
Mike Kemp photos

Looking for something fun, entertaining, comfortable, affordable and delicious? Conway’s Legends Restaurant offers one of the most unique experiences in dining anywhere in the state of Arkansas!

The restaurant is owned by Letitia McMaster and is located on 52 acres of pastureland called Back Achers — right in the center of day-to-day travels from school and work — at 3725 College Ave. in West Conway. With a 32-year career in physical therapy and McMaster Physical Therapy Clinic next door, one could see where the title of “Back Achers” might originate!

Letitia grew up on a 1,000-acre farm, and her grandparents were both restaurant owners. “I love Central Arkansas and wanted to peacefully raise horses on a small scale for my own enjoyment. This property came available, and what was meant to be small for my own enjoyment has evolved to a full-time operation with arena, stables, horseback riding lessons and full service catering!”

The Legends manager, Jennifer Chudy, says of Letitia, “Every morning Letitia speaks to all the animals — the goats, lambs, chickens, guineas, duck, horses, cats and dogs — greeting each one with ‘good morning!’”

Legends first opened its doors Dec. 1, 2012. The restaurant has been called the “Dixie Stampede” of Conway — and it’s a normal day’s activity to house a barrel race, a rodeo, roping exhibition, an AKC Dog Show, birthday parties, class reunions and weddings! The restaurant is kid friendly, and children are encouraged to watch through the restaurant’s large windows as the horses entertain in the arena. Riding classes for all ages are offered as well! Tuesday night is a great night to take the kids — they can eat free!

The decor is truly ranch style with lots of tin and pine — even mason jars for beverages and chuckwagon-style platters for foods. The menu offers a wide variety for all palates. Cowboy Nachos, catfish, steak, burgers, sandwiches, Cobb salad — just to name a few!

According to Jennifer, “one of our most popular menu items is the chicken fried chicken, green bean bundles and pecan cobbler!” The green bean bundles are made from fresh green beans, wrapped in bacon, bathed in Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic and brown sugar — then grilled.

“This is not a fast food restaurant,” Letitia adds. “We cook everything to order, and we love serving our guests — getting to know them on a personal level. We know many of them by their drink preferences.”

For the best sweet tea, made from scratch meals, pecan cobbler and more, visit Legends. The restaurant’s slogan says it all – “Legends Restaurant – where the food lives up to the name.”