CONWAY, Ark. — There's a place so popular in the heart of downtown Conway that the community not only continued to keep it going, but also kept it growing— Cross Creek Sandwich Shop.
“I really do say 'I’m like the most unqualified person to own a restaurant,' but we’re just loving people, feeding them good food, and doing our best, " owner Caitlin Bailey joked.
Long before Bailey owned and operated Cross Creek, the space was home to an antique store.
“It was all Jennifer’s Antiques in the beginning, and she opened it a little over 20 years ago. Her vision was she saw replicated all over the country, people would really come to an antique store if it had a restaurant in it,” Bailey explained.
In recent months, the restaurant has expanded, nearly doubling in size.
“This room that we’re sitting in now was still an antique store. In January, Jennifer and I agreed. She moved out of this room, and it took us from January to April to convert this to another 1,600 square feet," she said.
Bailey credited the incredible clients she has in the City of Conway and beyond who helped fund the expansion.
“I didn’t want to crowdfund, that was very scary for me. Honestly putting my pride aside and saying I’m going to ask for help. That took a big mental hurdle to get over we truly have the most incredible community," she described. "They were awesome to jump behind us and raise almost $35,000. Between businesses and local folks supporting us, every dime of that money was able to pay for the expansion.”
As far as the menu goes there is something for everyone, but one item continues to be the best seller— the Apple Creek Club.
“Chicken salad for years is what brought people here and kept people coming," Bailey added.
Let us not forget the second-to-none desserts as well!
“Our cookies are just freaking delicious,” she said.