Smiling Jack?s Offers Fresh Options (Restaurant Review)

Smiling Jack’s Fresh Foods
262 N. School Ave.
Fayetteville
479-935-4899
3.5 Forks
Cuisine: Sandwiches & Salads
Noise Level: High
Overall Ambiance: Organic Chic
Price Range: $4-$7
Time: 30 minutes
Open Since: August 2007

It’s hard to imagine food being served any fresher than at Smiling Jack’s Fresh Foods. After all, what’s in a name?

Two of our reviewers teamed up and headed to the small shop just off Dickson Street that touts “fresh, all natural, organic and locally grown” food that is better for the individual and the environment.

Smilin’ Jack Stewart, the owner, namesake and possibly the most upbeat person you may encounter on any given day, personally greeted the duo and took their orders.

One diner opted for the Sonoma sandwich ($7), which comes with Prosciutto, mozzarella, tomato and basil with a drizzling of balsamic vinegar and olive oil on ciabatta bread.

“I’ve not ever had fresher cibatta bread in my life,” she said with eyes wide in amazement. It was soft and made for the perfect vehicle for the flavorful fillings, she said.

“This combination sure is something you don’t find at most places these days. I’ll be back for sure,” she said.

The other reviewer, who came to talk turkey, ordered the Knuckle sandwich ($7) supposedly named so because it packs a punch. The Knuckle comes with turkey, provolone, avocado, tomato, lettuce, spouts, red pepper and mayo on whole grain bread.

It was delicious and really the freshest turkey sandwich he had ever eaten, he said.

His only gripe was that amount of turkey on the sandwich was lacking. He conceded that that was probably indicative of its high quality and a sign that he’s a habitual over indulger, as are most Americans.

The vegetables tasted like they’d been plucked directly from his farmer father’s garden, he said, and were almost enough to make him wish he were a vegetarian.

The menu also lists several “all natural” fruit smoothies made with organic yogurt and local honey ($4 and up). Our reviewers were too full to tackle the treat, but they both vowed to try one on their next visit.

The dining room at Smiling Jack’s is small, open and laid back, but noisy, so our reviewers don’t recommend going there to discuss sensitive business topics. There is a patio for alfresco when the weather permits.

Our reviewers said the quick, friendly service and superbly fresh food make Smiling Jack’s worth at least one visit (they reckon there’ll be a second, too). w