Do you find yourself imagining enchanting evenings in Italy, or daydreaming about exploring the beaches of Mexico? While we don’t have a magic carpet to whisk you away to your dream vacay, we can offer up some local spots to grab some not-so-local chow.

Check out all these restaurants and more on Towny, the free tool that helps you explore Northwest Arkansas, choose local, and earn perks for doing so! You can browse online or download the app to your mobile phone.

• Kickstart your day at Mama Carmen’s Espresso Cafe! This Fayetteville coffee shop was originally inspired by the life of a faithful Guatemalan woman who took care of 100 orphans in Guatemala City, but now they source their coffee (at fair price) from all around the world. So whether you’re craving a little caffeine from Kenya or some Guatemalan go-go juice, Mama Carmen’s has your coffee needs covered.

• Take a little trip south of the border when you eat at any Las Palmas location (find them in Bentonville, Springdale, and Rogers). They’ve got an extensive menu of Mexican food that ranges from apps like chips + queso and nachos to classics like tacos or burritos to combination platters that combine all your faves…taco ‘bout options!

• You won’t find the Colosseum or gondola-filled canals in Fayetteville, but you will find Renzo’s Pasta & Italian Restaurant, and that’s almost as good as a dinner in Naples! Renzo’s serves traditional Italian dishes with fresh-made sauces so authentic you’ll be crossing Italy off your bucket list. Buon appetito!

• Visit two countries at once when you eat at Mojitos Mexican Restaurant – Mexican dishes with a Cuban twist! In addition to authentic entrees and tasty desserts, you’ll also find yourself surrounded by incredible local art.

• Relax with a cold beer or margarita on the patio at El Matador, and you’ll feel like you’re out on a beautiful balcony in Mexico. The authentic Mexican feel doesn’t stop at the atmosphere or the drinks! Enjoy a full menu of freshly-made Mexican cuisine.

• Seven days out of the week you can take a Mexican vacation whether you’re in Bentonville, Rogers, or Springdale. Pay a visit to Acambaro Mexican Restaurant and indulge in a delicious Mexican appetizer, entree, and dessert.  

• If you’re a student at the University of Arkansas, take a quick study abroad trip to Mexico Viejo – the Mexican restaurant located just south of campus. Don’t hesitate to bring your friends along! Mexico Viejo is perfect for large groups and parties to enjoy the delicious food, desserts, and of course, margaritas.   

• With several tasty Mexican restaurants in Northwest Arkansas, don’t cross Mexico off your “places to visit” list until you’ve made a stop at Gabriela’s Mexican Grill. This restaurant has some super unique cocktails, Taco Tuesday specials, and several delicious dishes you don’t want to miss.

No need for a passport when you’ve got Towny – your online tour guide to local businesses in Northwest Arkansas. Or take Towny as your travel companion by downloading the free app to your mobile phone.