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

Try ONBoardNWA.com Today!

*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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Thank you for listening to this I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.

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Mentioned in this episode:

FindItNWA.com

Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"

FindItNWA.com

Apple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025

Evening at the Farm is a celebration of community and togetherness. Gather with friends, family, and fellow food enthusiasts for a memorable farm-to-table meal. What began as a small gathering has grown into one of our most beloved traditions, celebrating the flavors of the season and the community that makes it all possible. By attending this event, you'll not only treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary experience but also support our mission to empower and nourish our community.

Apple Seeds Fall Dinner 2025

Winetopia 2025

We’re back at the barn! Winetopia is THE annual event that highlights the best of what our NWA Community has to offer, and we are thrilled to be back at the Barn at the Stonebreaker this year! Winetopia is where you can taste incredible top-tier wine, local craft beer, top-shelf bourbon, a variety of other spirits from our favorite local distilleries, AND hand-crafted mocktails. A specially-selected menu from Stonebreaker catering and our favorite Mia Tarts round out the evening! A ticket is all you need to access one of the most special nights of the year. Your favorite features from Winetopia will be there - the famous wine toss with Carny in the Corner, DJ Shortfuze spinning smooth tracks all night long, and the best silent auction around! You’ve been waiting all year for this event, and it’s now around the corner! We cannot wait to see you there!

Winetopia 2025

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