Downtown Little Rock, the vibrant heart of Arkansas’ capital city, is a food lover’s paradise. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and exciting entertainment options, the area has become a hub for culinary innovation and diversity. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through the best restaurants in downtown Little Rock, highlighting their unique offerings, ambiance, and what makes them stand out.
Historic District Eats
The Historic District is a charming area filled with beautifully restored buildings, boutique shops, and some of the city’s most renowned restaurants. Here, you’ll find a mix of traditional Southern cuisine, contemporary American fare, and international flavors.
The Capital Hotel
Located in the heart of the Historic District, The Capital Hotel is a Little Rock institution. This luxurious hotel is home to two exceptional restaurants:
- Ashley’s: This upscale eatery serves contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a romantic dinner in the elegant dining room or on the picturesque patio.
- Capital Bar and Grill: For a more casual experience, head to the Capital Bar and Grill, which offers classic American fare, craft cocktails, and live music.
South on Main (SoMa)
The SoMa neighborhood is a hotspot for foodies, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Some standout options include:
- The Root Cafe: This farm-to-table restaurant serves creative, seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss their weekend brunch!
- Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom: For a taste of Italy in Little Rock, visit Raduno, which offers wood-fired pizzas, pasta dishes, and craft cocktails.
River Market District Delights
The River Market District is a bustling area located on the south bank of the Arkansas River. This vibrant neighborhood is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
River Market Hall of Fame
This historic building is now home to several restaurants and food vendors, including:
- Whole Hog Cafe: This popular barbecue joint serves up tender, smoky meats and classic sides.
- Big Orange: For a taste of the Mediterranean, visit Big Orange, which offers gyros, falafel, and other international flavors.
Other River Market District Favorites
- The Fish Market: Fresh seafood and sushi are the stars of the show at this upscale restaurant.
- Stickyz Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicken Shack: This casual eatery serves up crispy fried chicken, burgers, and other comfort food favorites.
Argenta Arts District Eats
The Argenta Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood located just north of downtown Little Rock. This area is home to a variety of restaurants, galleries, and performance venues.
Argenta Favorites
- The Argenta Market
: This gourmet market and deli offers a wide selection of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and prepared foods.
- Mosaic Templars Cultural Center
: This museum and cultural center is also home to a restaurant, which serves up Southern cuisine with a focus on African American heritage.
Other Downtown Little Rock Restaurants
In addition to the restaurants mentioned above, there are many other great options to explore in downtown Little Rock. Some other notable mentions include:
- The Honeycomb Kitchen + Market: This farm-to-table restaurant serves creative, seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
- La Terraza Rum and Lounge: For a taste of the Caribbean, visit La Terraza, which offers rum cocktails, Latin-inspired cuisine, and live music.
Conclusion
Downtown Little Rock is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. From historic eateries to contemporary hotspots, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to explore the many culinary delights that downtown Little Rock has to offer.
Getting Around Downtown Little Rock
Getting around downtown Little Rock is easy, with a variety of transportation options available. Here are a few ways to get around:
- Walking: Downtown Little Rock is highly walkable, with many restaurants and attractions within a short stroll of each other.
- Public Transportation: The city’s public transportation system, Rock Region Metro, offers bus routes throughout downtown Little Rock.
- Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are widely available in Little Rock, making it easy to get around without a car.
- Parking: There are several parking garages and lots throughout downtown Little Rock, as well as metered street parking.
Insider Tips
Here are a few insider tips to help you make the most of your dining experience in downtown Little Rock:
- Make Reservations: Some of the city’s most popular restaurants can be quite busy, so be sure to make reservations in advance to ensure availability.
- Check Hours of Operation: Hours of operation can vary, especially for smaller restaurants and cafes, so be sure to check before heading out.
- Explore Beyond the Main Streets: Some of the city’s best restaurants can be found on side streets and in unexpected neighborhoods, so be sure to explore beyond the main streets.
By following these tips and exploring the many restaurants that downtown Little Rock has to offer, you’re sure to have a delicious and memorable dining experience in this vibrant city.
What types of cuisine can I expect to find in Downtown Little Rock?
Downtown Little Rock is a melting pot of flavors, offering a diverse range of cuisines to suit every taste and preference. From traditional Southern comfort food to international flavors like Italian, Mexican, and Asian fusion, the city’s restaurants cater to a wide range of palates. You can also find contemporary American cuisine, steakhouses, and seafood restaurants, making it easy to find something that suits your mood and cravings.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or a romantic dinner, Downtown Little Rock’s restaurants have got you covered. Many of the city’s top chefs have set up shop in the downtown area, offering creative and innovative dishes that showcase the best of local and seasonal ingredients. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that will leave you wanting more.
What are some of the top-rated restaurants in Downtown Little Rock?
Downtown Little Rock is home to many top-rated restaurants that have received rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. Some of the most popular spots include The Capital Hotel’s Ashley’s, which serves up contemporary American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Another favorite is South on Main (SoMa), a trendy neighborhood that’s home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes. Other top-rated restaurants include Brave New Restaurant, The Pantry, and Samantha’s Tap Room & Grill.
These restaurants offer a range of dining experiences, from fine dining to casual eats, and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a quick bite with friends, Downtown Little Rock’s top-rated restaurants are sure to impress. Be sure to check out online reviews and make reservations in advance, as many of these restaurants can get quite busy, especially on weekends.
Are there any restaurants in Downtown Little Rock that offer outdoor seating?
Yes, many restaurants in Downtown Little Rock offer outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the city’s mild climate and scenic views. Some popular spots with outdoor seating include The River Market Hall of Fame, which offers stunning views of the Arkansas River, and The Flying Fish, a seafood restaurant with a large patio area. Other restaurants with outdoor seating include The Pantry, Samantha’s Tap Room & Grill, and Brave New Restaurant.
Outdoor seating areas range from small patios to large decks and courtyards, offering a range of options to suit every taste and preference. Many restaurants also offer outdoor bars and live music, making them the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day. Be sure to check with each restaurant for their outdoor seating options and availability, as it may vary depending on the season and weather.
Can I find any restaurants in Downtown Little Rock that cater to specific dietary needs?
Yes, many restaurants in Downtown Little Rock cater to specific dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and more. Some popular spots that offer vegetarian and vegan options include The Pantry, which has a separate vegetarian menu, and Brave New Restaurant, which offers a variety of vegan and gluten-free dishes. Other restaurants that cater to specific dietary needs include The Flying Fish, which has a gluten-free menu, and Samantha’s Tap Room & Grill, which offers vegetarian and vegan options.
Many restaurants in Downtown Little Rock are happy to accommodate special dietary requests, so be sure to ask your server for options and recommendations. Some restaurants also offer separate menus for guests with dietary restrictions, making it easy to find something that suits your needs. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find a restaurant that caters to your dietary needs and preferences.
Are there any restaurants in Downtown Little Rock that offer live music or entertainment?
Yes, many restaurants in Downtown Little Rock offer live music or entertainment, ranging from jazz and blues to rock and roll. Some popular spots that offer live music include The River Market Hall of Fame, which has a large stage and hosts live music events throughout the year. Other restaurants that offer live music include The Flying Fish, which has a small stage and hosts local musicians, and Samantha’s Tap Room & Grill, which offers live music and trivia nights.
Many restaurants in Downtown Little Rock also offer other forms of entertainment, such as outdoor movies and festivals. Some restaurants also have large screens and host sports events and games, making them the perfect spot to catch a game with friends. Be sure to check with each restaurant for their entertainment options and schedule, as it may vary depending on the season and day of the week.
Can I find any restaurants in Downtown Little Rock that offer brunch or breakfast options?
Yes, many restaurants in Downtown Little Rock offer brunch or breakfast options, perfect for starting your day off right. Some popular spots that offer brunch include The Pantry, which has a separate brunch menu, and Brave New Restaurant, which offers a variety of breakfast and brunch dishes. Other restaurants that offer brunch or breakfast options include The Capital Hotel’s Ashley’s, which has a weekend brunch menu, and Samantha’s Tap Room & Grill, which offers breakfast and brunch options on weekends.
Many restaurants in Downtown Little Rock also offer breakfast and brunch specials, such as bottomless mimosas and bloody marys. Some restaurants also have outdoor seating areas, making them the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely brunch on a sunny day. Be sure to check with each restaurant for their brunch and breakfast options and hours, as it may vary depending on the day of the week and season.
Are there any restaurants in Downtown Little Rock that offer delivery or take-out options?
Yes, many restaurants in Downtown Little Rock offer delivery or take-out options, perfect for those who want to enjoy the city’s culinary delights from the comfort of their own home or office. Some popular spots that offer delivery or take-out include The Flying Fish, which offers delivery through third-party services, and Samantha’s Tap Room & Grill, which offers take-out and curbside pickup. Other restaurants that offer delivery or take-out options include The Pantry, which offers take-out and delivery through their website, and Brave New Restaurant, which offers take-out and curbside pickup.
Many restaurants in Downtown Little Rock also partner with food delivery services, such as UberEats and GrubHub, making it easy to order your favorite dishes online and have them delivered to your doorstep. Be sure to check with each restaurant for their delivery and take-out options and hours, as it may vary depending on the day of the week and season.