Community Spotlight: Pea Farm Bistro
When Justin and Andrea Wilson launched their culinary adventure with a food truck named “Hot Rod Wieners” in 2014, they had no idea it would evolve into the beloved Pea Farm Bistro in the heart of Cabot, Arkansas. Their journey from a mobile food operation to a thriving bistro is a testament to their passion, resilience, and dedication to serving high-quality, locally-sourced food.
The idea for the food truck came from necessity and inspiration. Justin was self-employed in a different industry, and Andrea was working in management when they found out she had ovarian tumors during her pregnancy. Forced to be on bed rest, Andrea lost her job. This challenging time spurred the couple to start their own business. “We figured we’d dip our toes in the water by starting a food truck. We figured if we could do that, then we’d go from there, see where the road takes us,” Justin explained.
Pea Farm Bistro, located at 1102 S Pine Street #3, is celebrated for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a menu that showcases the Wilsons’ commitment to culinary excellence. The transition from a food truck to a restaurant was driven by their desire to provide a stable and inviting dining environment for their loyal customers. Initially starting in a small 750-square-foot space, the bistro quickly gained popularity, prompting a move to a larger 3,600-square-foot location. Justin recalled, “Once we kind of got rolling, it really took off a lot faster than we were expecting.”
One of the unique aspects of Pea Farm Bistro is its rich historical inspiration. The name “Pea Farm” honors a women’s prison from the early 20th century located in Cabot. This historical connection is reflected in the bistro’s décor, which includes wood and furniture from the original prison, adding a unique and meaningful touch to the dining experience. “We wanted to use farm-fresh stuff because Cabot is surrounded by the most amazing farms,” Andrea said. “And then we discovered this cool piece of Cabot history… That’s why we don’t have wifi in here, so people can talk and it kind of feels like you’re taking a step back in time.”
The menu at Pea Farm Bistro is a delightful mix of classic and innovative dishes. Their sandwiches, such as the popular Turkey Apple Swiss Cheese Sandwich, are made with freshly baked bread and high-quality ingredients. The bistro also offers a variety of homemade soups, salads, and desserts. The emphasis on local produce ensures that every dish is as fresh and flavorful as possible. “Everything we provide, it’s sliced daily, it’s fresh, it’s local, it’s from scratch,” Andrea said. “Our tomato soup is made with real tomatoes. It’s the freshest you can get.”
The Wilsons’ dedication to local sourcing is evident throughout their operations. They collaborate with nearby businesses and farms to procure ingredients, such as microgreens and dairy products, supporting the local economy and ensuring the freshest possible ingredients for their customers. This commitment extends to their upcoming venture, a General Store next door that will feature local products to take home.
The bistro’s story began in college when the Wilsons were inspired by their group of friends who would gather for what they called “family dinners.” Justin would prepare creative hot dog dishes, like their now-famous Italian Stallion, a pizza-inspired hot dog. This communal spirit carried over into their business, where they continue to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all who visit. “You have your regulars, and it’s like seeing a friend every single day,” Andrea said.
An essential part of the Wilsons’ philosophy is helping other small businesses grow, just as they were helped when they first started. They remember the challenges of running a food truck and the support they received from the community. This spirit of support extends to their collaborations with local businesses, such as Amy Thomson from Sage Tea & Treats and Panther Nutrition by offering a space to host Tea Class 101 on Sunday.
“This gives us an avenue to showcase other local (businesses) because we were smaller and we’re growing,” Justin said. “So, we’ve grown a bit, and we’d like to grow a little more, but this kind of gives us a place where we can show off other people who are just starting out too and help them have the same opportunity to grow because somebody gave us that at a certain point and it helped us grow a little more.”
Pea Farm Bistro isn’t just about food; it’s about community. The Wilsons actively engage with local events and charitable activities, often donating food and time to support local causes. Their upcoming block party with Ablaze Fitness is a prime example of their efforts to foster community spirit and collaboration among local businesses.
As Pea Farm Bistro continues to grow, the Wilsons remain focused on their mission: to provide delicious, high-quality food in a welcoming environment. Whether enjoying a meal at the bistro or picking up local products from their General Store, Pea Farm Bistro promises a dining experience that’s both unique and deeply rooted in the Cabot community. Reflecting on their journey, Andrea noted, “It’s a great community to be a part of, Cabot is.”
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