The secret to surviving 36 years in the restaurant industry isn't just great food – it's having complementary partners who understand their roles. Meet Todd and Nickki Golden, the culinary power couple behind some of Northwest Arkansas's most beloved dining establishments.

With humble beginnings, razor-sharp business instincts, and genuine passion for hospitality, Todd and Nickki have built an impressive restaurant portfolio that includes Isabellas (with locations in both Fayetteville and Bentonville), Mermaids, and TJ's Sandwich Shop. Their latest venture brings the beloved Mermaids concept to Rogers' Pinnacle Hills area, opening May 6th.

What makes their restaurants special? Everything's made from scratch – from their famous 16-layer lasagna to their signature "beggar's purses" pasta. Todd's culinary creativity shines in unexpected dishes like their French onion soup reimagined with "more cheese, more bread" and their homemade Hugs Ice Cream featuring unique flavors like basil, lavender honey, and balsamic strawberry.

But perhaps more impressive than their food is their ability to retain staff in an industry known for turnover. Their corporate executive chef has been with them since he was 16 years old – now in his 40s. "We've been through the battle with them," Todd explains about their hands-on management approach that builds loyalty.

As Northwest Arkansas continues evolving, so do Todd and Nickki – introducing a new umbrella brand called Golden Table Collective while maintaining the authentic culinary experiences that have made them local legends. Their monthly cooking demonstrations, where Todd prepares multi-course meals paired with wines right in front of guests, showcase their commitment to creating memorable dining experiences.

Want to taste what 36 years of restaurant expertise brings to the table? Visit Isabellas, try their upcoming new Mermaids location, grab a sandwich at TJ's, or attend one of their interactive cooking demonstrations. Your taste buds will thank you.

More About this Episode

Bentonville's Culinary Evolution: Inside the World of Isabellas, Mermaids, and TJ’s with Todd and Nickki

In Northwest Arkansas, where business booms and bourbon flows, there’s a unique dining renaissance happening, led by passionate restaurateurs who understand that food is about more than flavor. It’s about community, connection, and creating memorable experiences. On this episode of The B-Team Podcast, we sat down with Todd and Nickki, the dynamic duo behind Isabellas, Mermaids, and TJ’s Sandwich Shop, to explore their story, their approach to food, and how they’ve kept things fresh after decades in the industry.

From Humble Beginnings to Culinary Icons

For over 36 years, Todd and Nickki have been a cornerstone in the Fayetteville and Bentonville food scene. What began with Belvedere's Italian Restaurant evolved into a family of beloved establishments catering to diverse tastes. From the elegant Italian cuisine at Isabellas to the comforting classics at Mermaids and the hand-crafted sandwiches at TJ’s, their journey reflects a relentless commitment to quality and community.

Losing their lease at the original Mermaids in Fayetteville could have been a devastating blow. Instead, it became a catalyst. Today, they are expanding northward, embracing Rogers’ Pinnacle Hills as the new epicenter of culinary excitement.

Isabellas: A Taste of Italy with a Personal Touch

When you walk into Isabellas North, it’s not just the chandeliers or Aspen Room that take your breath away - it’s the deeply personal service and thoughtfully crafted menu. Known for signature dishes like their 16-layer lasagna and the inventive French onion muffin-top, Isabellas proves that Italian classics can still surprise and delight.

Monthly wine pairing dinners and cooking demonstrations hosted by Todd himself elevate the dining experience. Guests aren’t just passive diners - they’re part of the show. Watching Todd cook just feet away while sipping on carefully selected wines creates a sense of intimacy rarely found in traditional restaurants.

“It’s the funnest experience,” Todd says, and from the laughter and camaraderie shared during these events, it’s easy to believe.

Mermaids Returns: A New Chapter in Rogers

Perhaps the most exciting news is the rebirth of Mermaids in Rogers. Slated to open around May 6th, this location promises a blend of old favorites and fresh innovations. Gone is the traditional lunch-to-dinner gap - Mermaids will now serve continuously throughout the day, offering everything from casual bites to upscale seafood and steak specials.

The menu, thoughtfully curated from years of fan-favorite dishes, balances approachability with sophistication. The famed Caveman Club Sandwich from TJ’s will now grace Mermaids’ menu - a testament to the brand's unified vision.

TJ’s Sandwich Shop: Where Community Meets Comfort

While upscale dining has its charm, TJ’s Sandwich Shop in Fayetteville proves that great food can be laid-back too. Known for made-to-order sandwiches like the Caveman Club and the fan-favorite cheesesteak, TJ’s thrives on its personalized service. Walk in, and chances are Fabian - known as “Fabulous” by regulars - will greet you by name and recall your usual order.

What truly sets TJ’s apart, though, is the sense of belonging. “You can go up and down College and get a good sandwich,” host Josh Saffran noted, “but people go there for the experience.”

Homemade Ice Cream and Future Expansion

Todd and Nickki’s culinary empire wouldn’t be complete without dessert. Their homemade ice cream business, operated by their son-in-law, adds a sweet touch to their offerings. Sold at TJ’s, at farmers markets, and used in desserts across their restaurants, the ice cream features inventive flavors like basil, lavender honey, and salted caramel.

Plans for expansion include selling pints and possibly offering them through local retail partners like Marrs Mercantile.

The Golden Table Collective: Uniting the Brands

As their ventures grow, Todd and Nickki are bringing everything under a new brand umbrella: Golden Table Collective. This initiative will unify Isabellas, Mermaids, and TJ’s, streamlining marketing efforts and making it easier for customers to connect with their favorite eateries online.

Challenges and Triumphs in the Restaurant Industry

While the podcast was full of laughs and lighthearted moments, it also offered a candid look at the realities of running a restaurant. From managing staff loyalty - some employees have been with them for over 25 years - to balancing work and marriage, Todd and Nickki embody what it means to be hands-on operators.

Their approach fosters trust and camaraderie. “At the end of the night, we have a beer and talk about the battle,” Todd shared. It’s this attitude that has kept their team - and customers - coming back year after year.

Looking Ahead

The Northwest Arkansas culinary scene is shifting. Rogers’ Pinnacle Hills is emerging as the new hotspot, and Todd and Nickki are right in the thick of it. While they cherish their Fayetteville roots, their enthusiasm for what lies ahead in Rogers and beyond is palpable.

As Nickki put it best, “We’re old dogs at this, but we’re still learning new tricks.”

For those craving a taste of Italy, a soulful sandwich, or a unique wine-paired dinner, Isabellas, Mermaids, and TJ’s Sandwich Shop offer more than just food - they offer an experience that feels like home.