For enthusiasts of Little Rock’s enduring culinary scene, The Faded Rose stands as a beloved institution. Since 1982, this restaurant, established by Ed and Laurie David, has been a cornerstone of dining in Little Rock. As highlighted in a previous feature on OnlyinArk.com, The Faded Rose has maintained its classic appeal, much to the delight of its loyal patrons. For those seeking a taste of authentic Little Rock dining, The Faded Rose offers a comforting and consistent experience that feels like an extension of home. While Little Rock boasts a diverse range of dining options, The Faded Rose offers a unique and memorable culinary journey.
Despite exploring many restaurants as a food content creator, The Faded Rose holds a special allure, beckoning for deeper exploration of its menu. Although familiar with its inviting atmosphere, many iconic dishes still remain to be discovered. This curiosity led to a simple question posed on a personal blog, The Mighty Rib: “What is your favorite dish at The Faded Rose?”
A close-up shot of Shrimp Tchoupitoulas, featuring plump shrimp bathed in a buttery sauce with visible mushrooms, parsley, and green onions, served in a white bowl.
The response was enthusiastic and plentiful, with a clear favorite emerging: Shrimp Tchoupitoulas. Intrigued by its popularity, a visit to The Faded Rose was essential to experience this highly recommended appetizer. Upon tasting Shrimp Tchoupitoulas, the initial impression was of a dish deeply rooted in Creole tradition, perhaps passed down through generations. However, the reality of its origin is quite different.
A slightly wider shot of Shrimp Tchoupitoulas, showing the dish in a white bowl with slices of crusty Leidenheimer bread arranged around it, emphasizing the texture and presentation.
According to Zac David, son of the founder and current general manager, Shrimp Tchoupitoulas is not a classic Creole recipe. Instead, it was a unique creation of his father, added to The Faded Rose menu in the late 1990s, sometime after the restaurant’s inception. Zac attributes the dish’s success to the irresistible combination of butter, garlic, and rich shrimp stock, a flavor profile that is undeniably satisfying. This personal touch adds another layer to the charm of dining at The Faded Rose Little Rock.
The Shrimp Tchoupitoulas is presented as an appetizer, yet its generous portion and rich flavors make it substantial enough to be considered an entrée. Butter is certainly a key component, lending a luxuriousness that is both decadent and delightful. Six large shrimp are immersed in this buttery bath, accompanied by garlic, mushrooms, minced parsley, chopped green onion, and a blend of seasonings. While the ingredients themselves are appealing, the true magic of Shrimp Tchoupitoulas lies in the inclusion of sliced Leidenheimer rounds. This distinctive crusty French bread, sourced directly from New Orleans, is crucial for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful sauce. The staff readily offers extra bread, recognizing its essential role in fully enjoying this dish.
Beyond its incredible taste, Shrimp Tchoupitoulas has garnered significant recognition, further solidifying The Faded Rose’s reputation in Little Rock and beyond.
A final image of Shrimp Tchoupitoulas from a slightly elevated angle, showcasing the dish with a focus on the sauce-soaked bread and the overall appetizing presentation, highlighting the restaurant's ambiance in the background.
Several years ago, celebrity chef Rachael Ray featured Shrimp Tchoupitoulas on her Food Network show, “Rachael Ray’s Tasty Travels.” This national spotlight was a significant moment for The Faded Rose, bringing wider attention to this Little Rock culinary gem. While national recognition is noteworthy, local appreciation remains at the heart of The Faded Rose’s enduring appeal.
The Faded Rose
1619 Rebsamen Park Rd (Little Rock)
