Little Rock, Arkansas, is rapidly emerging as a culinary hotspot in the South, offering a diverse and vibrant food scene that caters to every palate. From upscale fine dining establishments to cozy neighborhood eateries, the city boasts an array of options sure to impress even the most discerning foodies. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor eager to explore the gastronomic delights of the Natural State’s capital, finding the perfect spot for your next meal can be an exciting adventure. To help you navigate this delicious landscape, we’ve compiled a guide to the Best Restaurants Little Rock has to offer, drawing from the trusted voices of local diners who have voted for their favorites.
This guide is your key to unlocking the best dining experiences in Little Rock, spotlighting the winners and finalists from a recent comprehensive poll of local food lovers. Prepare to discover your new favorite restaurant in Little Rock, whether you’re craving a perfectly cooked steak, authentic international flavors, or a delightful brunch spot.
Little Rock’s Culinary Crown Jewels: Overall Best Restaurants
When it comes to the ultimate dining experience in Little Rock, several restaurants consistently rise to the top, capturing the hearts (and stomachs) of local voters. These establishments are not just about great food; they offer a complete package of exceptional service, inviting ambiance, and unforgettable culinary creations.
Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom: Taking the coveted title of Best Overall Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Raduno is a testament to the power of fresh, quality ingredients and expertly crafted dishes. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional wood-fired pizzas, Raduno offers a menu that goes beyond pizza, featuring delicious pasta dishes, salads, and small plates perfect for sharing. Chef Cash Ashley’s culinary prowess has also earned him the title of Best Chef in Little Rock/North Little Rock, making Raduno a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier dining experience. The restaurant’s commitment to excellence extends to its service, with Shaniya Abrams recognized as Best Server in Little Rock/North Little Rock, further solidifying Raduno’s position as a true gem in the Little Rock dining scene. Don’t miss their brunch, also recognized as one of the Best Brunches in Little Rock/North Little Rock.
Brave New Restaurant: A consistent finalist for Best Overall Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock and winner of Best Fine Dining in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Brave New Restaurant promises an elegant and sophisticated dining experience. With a focus on refined American cuisine and impeccable service, it’s the perfect spot for special occasions or a memorable night out.
Bread Cheese Wine (BCW): This SoMa neighborhood favorite is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary destination. Recognized as a finalist for Best Overall Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock and winner of Best Wine List Little Rock/North Little Rock, BCW offers a curated selection of wines paired with delicious small plates and a warm, inviting atmosphere. It’s also a strong contender for brunch, making it a versatile choice for any meal. The dedication of their staff is evident with Carmen Brown and Erin Saunders both being finalists for Best Server in Little Rock/North Little Rock, showcasing the exceptional service you can expect.
Ciao Baci: For a taste of Italy in Little Rock, Ciao Baci is a beloved choice, consistently named a finalist for Best Overall Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock and recognized for its charming outdoor dining. This restaurant offers classic Italian dishes in a cozy and romantic setting, perfect for a relaxed yet refined meal.
Brood & Barley: This gastropub consistently earns accolades, being a finalist for Best Overall Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock and recognized in categories like Best Burger, Best French Fries, Best Fried Chicken, and Best Steak in Little Rock/North Little Rock. Brood & Barley offers a diverse menu of elevated pub fare, a wide selection of beers, and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both casual and more celebratory dining. Brayan McFadden was also a finalist for Best Chef in Little Rock/North Little Rock, highlighting the culinary talent behind this favorite.
Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom interior showcasing its vibrant and inviting dining space, a top choice among best restaurants Little Rock.
New Kids on the Block: Best New Restaurants in Little Rock
Little Rock’s dining scene is constantly evolving, with exciting new restaurants opening their doors and adding fresh flavors to the city. These Best New Restaurants in Little Rock/North Little Rock are making waves and quickly becoming local favorites:
The Bagel Shop: This newcomer has taken Little Rock by storm, winning Best New Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock in its first year of operation. But the accolades don’t stop there. The Bagel Shop has also been voted Best Bakery in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Best Breakfast in Little Rock/North Little Rock, and Best Sandwich in Little Rock/North Little Rock. It’s even a finalist for Best Overall Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Best Brunch in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Best Desserts in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Best Pie in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Best Business Lunch in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Best Place for Kids in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Best Deli/gourmet to-go in Little Rock/North Little Rock, and Best Vegetarian/Vegan in Little Rock/North Little Rock. Clearly, The Bagel Shop is a versatile and much-loved addition to the Little Rock restaurant scene, offering a wide range of delicious options from morning to evening.
Bread Cheese Wine: While not brand new, BCW continues to impress and was recognized as a finalist for Best New Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock, showcasing its ongoing innovation and appeal.
Wright’s BBQ: This barbecue joint is quickly making a name for itself in Little Rock, earning a finalist spot for Best New Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock. Known for its mouthwatering smoked meats, Wright’s BBQ brings authentic Texas-style barbecue to the Natural State, and also won Best Barbecue in Little Rock/North Little Rock.
Sterling Market: A finalist for Best New Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Sterling Market offers a unique combination of a market and restaurant, providing fresh, high-quality ingredients and delicious prepared foods. It’s also recognized as a top spot for brunch, pizza, and salads in Little Rock.
George’s: Rounding out the finalists for Best New Restaurant in Little Rock/North Little Rock, George’s offers a refined dining experience and is also recognized in categories like fine dining and Italian cuisine, adding another layer of sophistication to Little Rock’s culinary offerings.
Breakfast, Brunch, and Bakeries: Start Your Day Right in Little Rock
Little Rock offers a fantastic selection of spots to kickstart your day, from cozy breakfast nooks to lively brunch destinations and delightful bakeries.
The Bagel Shop: As mentioned earlier, The Bagel Shop dominates the breakfast and bakery scene in Little Rock, winning Best Bakery in Little Rock/North Little Rock and Best Breakfast in Little Rock/North Little Rock. Their freshly baked bagels and creative breakfast sandwiches are a must-try.
Fidel & Co: For coffee lovers, Fidel & Co is the Best Coffee in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering expertly brewed coffee and a cozy atmosphere to start your day. They are also recognized as a top bakery, making it a perfect spot for a morning coffee and pastry.
Community Bakery: A classic Little Rock bakery, Community Bakery is recognized as a finalist for Best Bakery in Little Rock/North Little Rock and winner of Best Pie in Little Rock/North Little Rock. Their traditional baked goods and pies are local favorites.
Boulevard Bread Co.: This bakery and cafe is a consistent finalist for Best Bakery in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Best Coffee in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Best Deli/gourmet to-go in Little Rock/North Little Rock, and Best Sandwich in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering a wide range of delicious options for breakfast, lunch, or a quick bite.
The Root Cafe: Winner of Best Brunch in Little Rock/North Little Rock, The Root Cafe is a popular spot for weekend brunch, known for its farm-to-table cuisine and commitment to local ingredients. It’s also celebrated for being Best Vegetarian/Vegan and Best Healthy option in Little Rock, and offering Best Outdoor Dining.
Wright's Barbecue brisket, showcasing the perfection in smoked meats that makes it a top choice for barbecue in Little Rock.
Savoring Specific Cravings: Best Dishes in Little Rock
Sometimes you have a specific craving, and Little Rock has the perfect restaurant to satisfy it. Here are some of the best places to go for specific dishes:
Wright’s Barbecue: When it comes to barbecue in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Wright’s BBQ takes the crown, offering mouthwatering smoked meats that are sure to please any barbecue aficionado.
Big Orange: For burger lovers, Big Orange is the Best Burger in Little Rock/North Little Rock, known for its gourmet burgers and creative toppings.
Eat My Catfish: Craving catfish? Eat My Catfish is the Best Catfish in Little Rock/North Little Rock, serving up delicious Southern-style catfish.
Heights Taco & Tamale: For a taste of Tex-Mex, Heights Taco & Tamale offers the Best Cheese Dip in Little Rock/North Little Rock and Best Tacos in Little Rock/North Little Rock, combining flavorful dishes with a lively atmosphere.
Loblolly Creamery: Indulge your sweet tooth at Loblolly Creamery, the Best Desserts in Little Rock/North Little Rock and Best Ice Cream/cool treats in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering handcrafted ice cream and delicious desserts.
David’s Burgers: For classic, crispy French fries, David’s Burgers is the Best French fries in Little Rock/North Little Rock, a local favorite for its simple yet satisfying burgers and fries.
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken: Enjoy crispy, flavorful fried chicken at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, the Best Fried chicken in Little Rock/North Little Rock, a renowned chain that lives up to its name.
Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom: Beyond being the best overall restaurant, Raduno also excels in pizza, offering the Best Pizza in Little Rock/North Little Rock with its wood-fired creations.
U.S. Pizza: For a satisfying salad, U.S. Pizza offers the Best Salad in Little Rock/North Little Rock, with a variety of fresh and flavorful options. They are also recognized for their brunch, outdoor dining, and being a fun place to eat, making it a versatile choice.
The Bagel Shop: In addition to breakfast and bakery items, The Bagel Shop also offers the Best Sandwich in Little Rock/North Little Rock, with creative and delicious sandwich options.
Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co.: For a comforting bowl of soup, Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co. offers the Best Soup in Little Rock/North Little Rock and Best Chinese in Little Rock/North Little Rock, specializing in flavorful noodle dishes and dumplings.
Doe’s Eat Place: Steak lovers should head to Doe’s Eat Place, the Best Steak in Little Rock/North Little Rock, a classic steakhouse known for its perfectly cooked steaks.
Kemuri: For sushi enthusiasts, Kemuri is the Best Sushi in Little Rock/North Little Rock and also recognized as a top spot for healthy dining and seafood, offering fresh and creative sushi rolls.
El Sur: For a unique international flavor, El Sur wins Best Tortilla chips in Little Rock/North Little Rock and Best Other international in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering Latin American cuisine and those award-winning tortilla chips.
Four Quarter Bar: Wing lovers will enjoy the Best Wings in Little Rock/North Little Rock at Four Quarter Bar, known for its flavorful and crispy wings.
Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co. salad, highlighting the fresh and healthy options available in Little Rock's diverse culinary scene.
International Flavors and Specialty Dining in Little Rock
Little Rock’s diverse culinary scene extends to international flavors and unique dining experiences:
Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co.: As mentioned, Three Fold is the Best Chinese in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering authentic and flavorful Chinese dishes.
Star of India Restaurant: For Indian cuisine, Star of India Restaurant is the Best Indian in Little Rock/North Little Rock, known for its rich and aromatic Indian dishes. It’s also a family-friendly option.
Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom: Beyond pizza, Raduno is also recognized as the Best Italian in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering a range of Italian favorites.
Kemuri: In addition to sushi, Kemuri is also recognized as Best Japanese in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering a comprehensive Japanese dining experience.
Taqueria El Palenque: For authentic Mexican flavors, Taqueria El Palenque is the Best Mexican in Little Rock/North Little Rock, serving up traditional Mexican dishes.
El Sur: El Sur stands out in the Best Other international in Little Rock/North Little Rock category, offering a unique blend of Latin American flavors.
Samantha’s Tap Room and Wood Grill: For a Best Business Lunch in Little Rock/North Little Rock, Samantha’s Tap Room and Wood Grill offers a refined and efficient lunch experience.
Bark Bar: Dog owners will appreciate Bark Bar, the Best Dog friendly in Little Rock/North Little Rock restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal with your furry friend.
Brave New Restaurant: As noted, Brave New Restaurant is the Best Fine dining in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering an upscale and elegant dining experience.
Dave & Buster’s: For a fun and entertaining dining experience, Dave & Buster’s is the Best Fun in Little Rock/North Little Rock spot, combining food and games.
The Root Cafe: The Root Cafe is also the Best Gluten free in Little Rock/North Little Rock and Best Healthy in Little Rock/North Little Rock restaurant, catering to specific dietary needs.
Rosie’s Pot & Kettle: For comforting home-style cooking, Rosie’s Pot & Kettle is the Best Home cookin’ in Little Rock/North Little Rock restaurant, offering classic Southern dishes.
The Root Cafe: Enjoy the outdoors at The Root Cafe, which offers the Best Outdoor dining in Little Rock/North Little Rock.
All Aboard Restaurant & Grill: Families with kids will love All Aboard Restaurant & Grill, the Best Place for kids in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering a fun and engaging dining experience for children.
The Oyster Bar: Seafood lovers should visit The Oyster Bar, the Best Seafood in Little Rock/North Little Rock, known for its fresh oysters and seafood dishes.
The Root Cafe: For vegetarian and vegan diners, The Root Cafe is the Best Vegetarian/Vegan in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering a wide range of plant-based options.
Bread Cheese Wine: Wine enthusiasts will appreciate Bread Cheese Wine, which boasts the Best Wine List Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering a curated selection of wines to complement your meal.
Takeaway and Mobile Dining: Little Rock on the Go
For those on the move, Little Rock also offers excellent takeaway and mobile dining options:
Hogg’s Meat Market: For quality meats to cook at home, Hogg’s Meat Market is the Best Butcher in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering a wide selection of fresh cuts.
Whole Hog Cafe: When it comes to catering, Whole Hog Cafe is the Best Caterer in Little Rock/North Little Rock, bringing their barbecue expertise to your events.
The Bagel Shop: In addition to being a top restaurant, The Bagel Shop is also the Best Deli/gourmet to-go in Little Rock/North Little Rock, perfect for grabbing a quick and delicious meal on the go.
Smashed N’ Stacked: For food truck fare, Smashed N’ Stacked is the Best Food Truck in Little Rock/North Little Rock, offering creative and delicious burgers from their mobile kitchen.
Little Rock’s restaurant scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and experiences, waiting to be explored. Whether you’re seeking a special occasion destination or a casual neighborhood spot, this guide to the best restaurants Little Rock, as voted by locals, is your perfect starting point for a culinary adventure in the Natural State’s capital. So, go ahead, explore these local favorites and discover your own best restaurant in Little Rock!
