Garry’s Sling Blade, nested in Benton, stands as an iconic dairy bar and diner, cherished by locals and movie buffs alike. On a recent Friday afternoon, I found myself drawn to this legendary spot, featured prominently in the movie Sling Blade. Originally, my plans were different, but after an uninspiring lunch elsewhere, my search for a satisfying meal led me to Garry’s Sling Blade.
The atmosphere at garry’s sling blade
Stepping into Garry’s Sling Blade for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The interior exudes a nostalgic charm with its checkered flooring and a cozy bar. A few booths are tucked away in the corner, offering intimate seating options.
On one of the walls, a movie poster featuring Billy Bob Thornton catches the eye. Adjacent to the poster, an actual sling blade hangs, creating a unique and film-themed ambiance. These thoughtful touches contribute to the diner’s distinctive character.
For those choosing to dine outdoors, Garry’s provides benches near the ordering window, perfect for enjoying pleasant weather while savoring your meal. The overall atmosphere, combined with friendly service, makes Garry’s Sling Blade an enticing spot to relax and enjoy food.
A culinary journey through garry’s sling blade menu
Now, let’s dive into the heart of Garry’s Sling Blade—the food. The menu boasts an impressive array of options, catering to diverse tastes. On my visit, I sampled several dishes, each offering a unique taste of Southern comfort food.
Classic cheeseburger
No visit to a dairy bar is complete without trying a cheeseburger, and Garry’s does not disappoint. The burger features a generous patty of ground beef, perfectly melted American cheese, and an array of fresh fixings, all nestled within a toasted bun. This classic offering will undoubtedly satisfy burger lovers.
Reuben sandwich
The Reuben at Garry’s deviates from the traditional but still impresses. It resembles a patty melt, with added sauerkraut for a tangy twist. This adaptation of a Reuben provides a delightful new take on a beloved sandwich.
Beer-battered onion rings
Thick-cut and fried to a golden perfection, the beer-battered onion rings offer a satisfying crunch. While they appear to be previously frozen, their preparation ensures they remain a tasty side dish worth trying.
Garry’s extensive menu also includes various other treats. Whether it’s their array of savory burgers ranging from 1/4-pound to 1/2-pound, or classic diner staples like grilled cheese, hot dogs, and chicken sandwiches, there is something for everyone.
For seafood lovers, Garry’s serves fried catfish and shrimp dinners that capture the essence of Southern cuisine. Additional sandwich options, including the BLT and the aforementioned patty melt, further enrich the menu.
Sweet treats and combo meals
No visit to Garry’s Sling Blade is complete without sampling their delicious desserts. The dairy bar offers an extensive selection of sundaes, banana splits, shakes, cones, and fried pies, perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Combo meals at Garry’s provide excellent value and variety. You can pair your main dish with a side of your choice, from tater tots and fries to chili cheese fries and sidewinders. The indulgent Frito chili pie and corn dogs further showcase the diner’s commitment to classic, comforting fare.
| Main Dishe | Sides | Desserts |
|---|---|---|
| Cheeseburgers | Tater tots | Sundaes |
| Reuben Sandwich | Fries | Banana splits |
| Fried Catfish | Chili cheese fries | Milkshakes |
| Chicken Sandwiches | Sidewinders | Fried pies |
Why garry’s sling blade is worth a visit
Beyond its rich menu and inviting atmosphere, Garry’s Sling Blade carries a unique appeal. The connection to the film Sling Blade adds an element of nostalgia, attracting fans of the movie to experience the place where their favorite scenes unfolded.
Practical aspects further enhance the dining experience. Garry’s offers a convenient pick-up window, allowing patrons to collect their food without leaving their car. This feature is especially handy for those on a tight schedule or simply looking to enjoy their meal on the go.
Located at 619 Cox St in Benton, Garry’s Sling Blade operates from Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The flexible hours ensure that whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, Garry’s is ready to serve.
In summary, whether you’re a fan of the film or a foodie in search of authentic Southern comfort food, Garry’s Sling Blade in Benton promises a memorable dining experience. From the nostalgic decor to the diverse and delicious menu, every visit to Garry’s is an opportunity to enjoy a piece of culinary and cinematic history.
If you ever find yourself in Benton, make sure to stop by Garry’s Sling Blade. Whether it’s for a quick bite, a sweet treat, or to soak in the movie magic, you won’t be disappointed.
