About the Show:
"We're a reflection of those who came before us and those yet to be. So honor everyone, and we all learn, evolve, and grow together. We can't do it without each other."
– Chef Matt Cooper
In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Chef Matt Cooper—owner of Conifer in Downtown Bentonville—and his partner Paul Esterer to share the exciting story behind their newest project, RYN Bentonville. This new farm-to-table concept isn't just a restaurant—it's a vision years in the making that blends history, community, and sustainability in the Ozarks.
Together, Matt and Paul share how their partnership and shared values helped create RYN Bentonville, a boutique 10-course tasting menu restaurant nestled on Sun Painted Farm, just minutes from downtown Bentonville but worlds away in atmosphere. They talk about honoring history through restoration, supporting local food producers, and fostering a true sense of place where guests can feel connected to the land, the food, and the people behind every dish. With a commitment to sustainability, community education, and innovative dining, this is an episode for food lovers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in what makes Northwest Arkansas special.
Key Takeaways:
- Farm-to-Table Dream Realized: RYN Bentonville is a small, reservation-only restaurant focused on multi-course tasting menus driven by ultra-local, seasonal ingredients grown right on Sun Painted Farm.
- Place Matters: Thoughtful restoration of a historic farm property creates an immersive environment, allowing guests to truly experience their food’s origin and Arkansas’s natural beauty.
- Community-Focused: The project serves as a hub for collaboration in the local food scene, supports local farms, and offers educational events.
- Team Culture: Matt Cooper’s approach places a high value on taking care of his team with benefits, fair pay, and fostering a work environment based on respect and growth.
- More Than a Meal: RYN Bentonville will host farm stands, community gatherings, and educational opportunities and provide a way for more people to connect with farming, food, and the NWA community.
- Future Vision: This restaurant is just the beginning, with plans for more experiences and partnerships on the farm to benefit the wider region.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
RYN Bentonville Instagram: @rynbentonville
Conifer Bentonville Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coniferbentonville/
Indiegogo Campaign for the RYN Documentary: Support the Journey (search "Wren" on Indiegogo for the current campaign)
Brightwater: Center for the Study of Food
Local farm partners: Tuckaway Farms, Turnbuckle Farms, Honest Dirt Farms
Ozark Natural Foods
Appleseeds NWA
Featured Chefs/Restaurants: Jason Paul, Atlas, Pizzeria Ruby, Michael Robertshaw, Elliot Hunt, Luke Mitchell
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
This episode is sponsored by*
FindItNWA.com
HootOwl Legal Ver 2
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*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
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ONBoardNWA.com
Looking for your next career move in Northwest Arkansas? Check out ONBoardNWA.com, the hyper-local job board designed to connect job seekers with leading employers in our community. From entry-level positions to executive roles, ONBoardNWA is your one-stop shop for job opportunities right here in NWA. Take the next step in your career and visit ONBoardNWA.com today.
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