Little Rock is the heart of Arkansas and a hub for vibrant culinary delights that demand exploration. Visitors and locals alike, be prepared to tantalize your taste buds as we route you through some of the city’s most dynamic dining spots. And remember, this is just the appetizer. An entire course of tasty Little Rock restaurants awaits you in the delicious paragraphs ahead.
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Big Orange
Prepare to have your taste buds blown away by Big Orange, a craft burger joint emphasizing quality and creativity. From the famous Umami Bomb Burger or Pimento Cheeseburger to the more streamlined turkey or veggie patties, all house-made daily, there’s something for every palate at this trendy hotspot.
Let’s not forget the signature fries, for which I gladly pay extra for the white truffle oil, fresh herbs, and garlic mayo version. Pair your food with one of the enticing shake creations, like PB& Chocolate or Banana Cream Pie; boozy versions are available.
Black Bear Diner
If you like old-fashioned, all-American comfort food, you don’t want to pass up Black Bear Diner. The menu offers a wide range of items, from hearty breakfasts served in skillets and specialty burgers to creative omelettes and scrumptious sandwiches.
Known for its homestyle comfort food served in a friendly, bear-themed atmosphere, Black Bear Diner elevates typical diner fare and prides itself on generous portions. Specialty dishes like slow-cooked pot roast, grandma’s favorite cobbler, and chicken fried steak & eggs offer a taste of the good old days, with each recipe conjuring a sense of warmth, community, and nostalgia.
My husband and I often grab a seat at the bar to avoid the wait times, and the service is always spot on.
For fun things to do in Little Rock suggestions, check out this post.
Camp Taco
The outdoors meets south-of-the-border cuisine at Camp Taco. This restaurant takes a unique approach to Mexican food, elevating it with gourmet ingredients and unexpected twists. Their tacos are not just any tacos – they’re artfully crafted flavor bombs that deliver on both taste and presentation.
Take advantage of the Mexican Ramen, a Camp Taco specialty, paletas (straight or boozy homemade popsicles), or the salsa trio with fresh, green, and Sunsetter, a wonderfully hot habanero salsa.
Besides the eclectic decor and vibe, I appreciate that the flour and corn tortillas are all made fresh. Vegetarians take note: this is your new favorite eatery.
Diablo’s Tacos & Mezcalería
Immersive atmosphere and intense flavors are the hallmarks of Diablo’s Tacos & Mezcalería, though I am partial to the friendly and hospitalable staff. This colorful and fun restaurant, serving authentic Mexican fare, piques curiosity with its extensive mezcal selection and the Dia de Muertos-inspired décor that animates the space in two Little Rock locations.
Diablo’s slow-cooked al pastor and the assortment of Mexican street corn (Elote) evoke authenticity with every bite. I love it so much; I can never order anything new because I know what I will miss.
For a bit of fun, check out the mini-taquitos board with 10 different flavor creations.
Dugan’s Pub
On the corner of 3rd and Rock Street stands Dugan’s Pub, your quintessential Irish haven in Little Rock for over 25 years. With a pint of Guinness and their famous fish and chips, one can enjoy the genuine craic that Dugan’s offers.
The staff cultivates an air of Irish hospitality, and the diverse menu boasts pub classics and inventive dishes, ensuring a blend of tradition and surprise with each visit.
I had the Corned Beef & Cabbage with Irish brown bread on one visit and Shepherds Pie on another. Both were 10/10 satisfying. If you are perusing apps —Irish Poutine —need to say more?
Flying Saucer Draught Emporium
For those who consider themselves beer aficionados, a pilgrimage to the award-winning Flying Saucer Draught Emporium is in order while visiting Little Rock. With a dazzling array of craft beers on tap paired with a menu designed to complement each pint, the emporium has mastered the art of the brew.
Knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through your choices, making the experience educational as well as enjoyable.
Regarding food, my favorites are the Saucer Bratzel, the Big Dipper, and Lauren’s Goat Cheese Salad.
Hurts Donut
The name Hurts Donut might prompt a chuckle, but their profound dedication to the art of donut making is no laughing matter. With inventive and whimsical creations, these are not your typical coffee shop pastries. The PB&J, Maple Long John, and THE Brownie are stars in a constellation of sweet treats that defy convention.
This is one stop you will not want to. miss.
Lost 40 Brewing
Named after an iconic patch of untouched forest in Calhoun County, Arkansas, Lost 40 Brewing is a testament to the local spirit. This craft brewery brings people together over pints of finely brewed beers and a menu that surprisingly incorporates local ingredients.
Try the brewhouse gumbo or the smoked turkey Reuben; both are excellent choices. Pizza, wings, and salads are other menu options.
Have kids with you? Never fear. This family-friendly brewery is perfect for the whole family. Come for Sunday brunch to enjoy the scratch-made cinnamon roll, Brekkie enchiladas, or the Arkansas blueberry hot cakes.
Press Waffle Co.
If waffles are your weakness, look no further than Press Waffle Co, serving up decadent Instagram-worthy breakfasts, lunches, and desserts in a hip and modern spot. As seen on ABC’s Shark Tank, these customizable and authentic Belgian Liége-style waffles come with an inventive twist and various toppings and fillings that will tantalize your taste buds.
This is different from your average waffle. Each waffle’s sugary, crispy exterior gives way to a perfectly dense bite laden with toppings that range from sweet to savory. Be as adventurous as you want, but The Elvis, with bananas, peanut butter, honey, and bacon crumbles, is as good as it gets. There is also the ever-popular chicken and waffles.
Purple Cow Restaurant
Stop by the Purple Cow Restaurant and experience a delightful 50s-diner-meets-modern-day vibe. The restaurant is known for hand-dipped shakes and vintage soda fountain specialties that spark joy.
Favorite dishes include the fabulous grilled tuna salad sandwich, smoked club, homemade chili, and steak knife burgers. A special mention goes to the kid’s meals, which came with a huge fruit cup heaping full of seasonal bite-size pieces. It was almost a meal in itself.
Tacos 4 Life
Tacos 4 Life is more than just a restaurant – it’s a movement. Their mission to help end world hunger through taco sales has already provided millions of meals to those in need. But beyond their incredible philanthropy, Tacos 4 Life also serves amazing tacos with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
From classic street-style tacos to unique combinations like Korean BBQ, seared tofu, fried chicken, and Hawaiian shrimp, you’ll be delightfully satisfied on multiple levels while dining here.
Save room for the Mexican creamed corn and refried or seasoned black beans. Mmmm.
Little Rock Restaurants Pack a Powerful Punch
By now, you are surely dreaming of the dining escapades that Little Rock has to offer. Each restaurant brings its unique narrative to the city’s food scene, a page in Little Rock’s diverse culinary chapter. And this is just a morsel of what awaits.
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