In the Raw Downtown has just opened its doors at 919 Central, and if you are looking for an experience, this is the place to be. In August 2017, they first opened as a food truck called In the Raw Test Kitchen & Juice Bar where they served strictly a raw vegan menu.
Once winter set in, the owner, Marci Smith, decided to start introducing warm items, so she began also serving up delicious homemade soups and started creating toasted sandwiches to mimic meat-lovers’ favorites, like the Reuben. This proved a success, and soon In the Raw was asked to cater some of Hot Springs’ biggest events of 2018.
Next, the opportunity arose for them to purchase a building and they decided to expand sooner than they anticipated. Unfortunately, it soon became apparent that renovations would cost them more than they could afford, and after many setbacks, most who once loved the little food truck started to believe that In the Raw would be no more.
Fortunately for In the Raw, several angel investors came forward and gave the company a much-needed financial and morale boost, and the restaurant was able to just barely open its doors in the heart of the coldest week of winter, serving only cold-pressed juice and blended drinks.
As quickly as possible, Smith started adding in hot soup, sandwiches, and other items. The menu is now complete. Go try a taste of the most exciting food in Hot Springs Monday-Friday 7-7. They also serve Chef’s Small Plates Tasting $12-$20 per person, Sundays from 11-2.
For the latest menu items, visit Facebook: In the Raw Downtown.
