A New Era of Entertainment: Inside Cabot’s Favorite Hangout Spot
Since its opening in March, Overtime Cabot has quickly become a lively nexus for dining and entertainment, capturing the essence of community and enjoyment. This vibrant blend of sports, food, and fun has made Overtime Cabot a beloved local hangout.
Owned by Tia and John Van, who are deeply rooted in the community, Overtime Cabot offers more than just a meal—it’s a place to gather, relax, and enjoy. “It’s not just a typical restaurant where you just come, sit, eat, leave,” Tia Van said. “You can come sit, hang out, meet your friends, play pool, eat again.”
The venue’s launch in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic marked the first restaurant venture for the Vans, when they opened Overtime Lounge in Maumelle, AR. Choosing Cabot for the second location was a natural decision for the couple, as John Van grew up in the area and their children now attend school there.
Overtime Cabot’s menu caters to a diverse palate, featuring everything from classic burgers and wraps to hearty dinners like grilled shrimp and Philly cheesesteak sandwiches. The restaurant is proud of its extensive offerings, ensuring there’s something for everyone, from a quick bite to a full feast.
Tia Van’s 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry combined with her husband’s passion for sports have created a unique establishment. “I’ve been in the restaurant business for 15 plus years, and he’s a big sports fan,” she said. “He’s played pool since he was 15, 16 years old. He used to go around and play pool tournaments. And so, we kinda just brought it together, and here we are.”
Equipped with facilities for pool, a golf simulator, darts, and more, Overtime Cabot offers a sports bar’s dynamism with a family-friendly twist. After 9 p.m., the space transforms into an adults-only area. “You can have your family time here,” Tia Van noted. “We want mom and dad to come play pool with their kid. Not just come here and drop their kid off like they would at the skating rink, but just come here and spend family time. Then also, after 9 o’clock, it’s 21 and up, so we have the adult time. So if you need to send the kids home and come back, it’s a little bit of both worlds.”
The decision to open their own business just before the pandemic was a bold move filled with uncertainty and risk. Tia Van, formerly a manager at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s in Maumelle for about ten years, considered many career paths before deciding to stick with the restaurant industry, driven by a desire to honor Rebecca, the previous owner of Beef ‘O’ Brady’s, who was a significant support to her. “When she passed away, that hit hard,” she said. “She was always my support.”
Overtime Cabot’s commitment extends beyond great food and entertainment. The Vans are dedicated to fostering community ties, evident in their sponsorship of the Overtime golf team and participation in events like Maumelle’s Bash on the Boulevard and, hopefully, next year’s Strawberry Festival in Cabot.
With a modern approach to casual dining and a dedication to community, Overtime Cabot stands out as a significant addition to Cabot’s social landscape. It is more than a place to eat but a venue to experience the small-town camaraderie that defines Cabot. As they continue to evolve, introducing events like trivia nights and karaoke, Overtime Cabot remains at the center of Cabot’s social whirl.
In a fast-moving world, Overtime Cabot offers a chance to slow down, connect, and enjoy, becoming a cornerstone of community life in Cabot, AR. Whether it’s for watching a game, enjoying a meal, or just hanging out with friends, Overtime Cabot is the place to be.
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