Monday Munchies: The Collective
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The French dip. Photo: Worth Sparkman/Axios
I usually approach date night with the idea of eating a good steak or a nice piece of fish. Rarely do I think: "Man, I want a sandwich."
- And never: "Gimme one that comes with a side of sloppy meat juice." I do now.
The setup: One recent night, my wife and I tried The Collective on Dickson Street in Fayetteville.
- The roasted prime rib ($45) sounded good, but seemed like too much after an appetizer of wild mushroom flatbread ($15) and the planned-for side of elote corn ($12).
- The server suggested the prime rib French dip with Swiss cheese and au jus ($22).
Dig in: It was tender, juicy, warm, rich and fresh, and I can say with hand over heart that it was the best French dip I've ever eaten. I've been craving another one since that evening, and I can't wait to get back.
- My wife's Chilean sea bass trimmed with chimichurri ($45) was a winner and will be a go-to if the sandwich seems too heavy.
- And though I'm no fan of mushrooms, the flatbread was a sensational starter.
The vibe: The joint is a bit upscale, but still has the noisy, active Dickson Street energy that works for college kids on Mom and Dad's dime, or date night for Mom and Dad.
The intrigue: One can apply for membership to Ben's Apartment, a private lounge accessible through the restaurant.
📍 Stop by: The Collective at 216 W. Dickson St. in Fayetteville serves dinner 5pm–10pm Tuesday–Saturday, brunch 10:30am–2pm Saturday and Sunday, and is closed on Monday.