The Arkansas Church With A Secret (Literal) Underground Bar

No matter your stance on organized religion, it's hard to deny the majestic beauty of churches. With their high ceilings, stained glass, and ornate accents, these visually impressive places create an atmosphere of awe and amazement among even the most secular of souls. That may explain why so many establishments, typically restaurants, repurpose churches in the hopes of attracting patrons. Come for food and drink but stay to bask in the saintly glow of a former house of worship.

As for the appeal of the repurposed church concept, these establishments can be found all over the nation. From Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon, numerous establishments have set up shop in churches. While some exclusively serve food, others expand their menus to provide a great selection of alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and cocktails. That's certainly the case with one repurposed Arkansas church, which features a hidden bar with a little something extra.

Located in Bentonville, The Preacher's Son is a beloved eatery well-known for its creative menu and sustainable practices. The establishment is also notable for its atmosphere, as it's situated in a restored church. The building derives some of its design inspiration from John Ruskin's The Seven Lamps of Architecture, which include sacrifice, truth, power, beauty, life, memory, and obedience. However, it also plays upon the existing architecture of the space, including a re-designed sanctuary and restored clock tower, which contains nearly 300 gold bells.

The Preacher's Son also contains a hidden surprise that's sure to delight those in search of an amazing atmosphere to enjoy an adult beverage. Beneath the establishment is Undercroft, a cocktail bar that's only accessible via a side entrance (which is simply labeled 'bar.') For the uninitiated, an undercroft refers to an underground room, usually, an arched chamber found beneath a church. And if the mysterious atmosphere is not enough to pique your interest, you're bound to be impressed by the menu.

One glance at Undercroft's libations menu and it's clear to see that this hidden bar offers something more than your standard experience. In addition to its expertly crafted classic cocktail list, which includes enduring favorites like Manhattans, Negronis, and French 75s, you can also enjoy a signature cocktail designed by the joint's innovative bartenders. For instance, Sages of Sin is a gin-based cocktail that also features olive bitters, sage, lemon, and Cocchi Americano Bianco, a type of fortified white wine sourced from the Piedmont region of Italy.

And because no delightful cocktail would be as good without some tasty snacks, Undercroft also offers a small plates menu for guests. The cheese and charcuterie board is perfect for a group, while individual diners can indulge in the onion ring-topped TPS burger. Undercroft also features salads that include ingredients like roasted beets, hazelnuts, feta, and many other fresh and surprising elements. The care and consideration used to develop menu items are seemingly evident in every aspect of this sacred space, which is fitting when considering its hallowed location.