Visitors Guide 2020 by Arkansas Times

Visitors Guide The

To Greater Little Rock and North Little Rock 2020

DISCOVER WHERE THE LOCALS EAT, SHOP AND PLAY

VISITORS GUIDE â&#x20AC;¢ 2020

See Little Rock As It Was Meant To Be Seen Enjoy a modern, comfortable room in the heart of the River Market District when you stay at the new Hilton Garden Inn in Downtown Little Rock. Walk to restaurants, breweries, shops, museums, theaters, the State House Convention Center and the Arkansas Arts Center. Or stay in and enjoy sweeping views of the city from our rooftop bar and restaurant, Agasi 7.

VISITORS GUIDE â&#x20AC;˘ 2020

322 Rock Street in Little Rock (501) 244-0044 hilton.com/garden_inn/little_rock

Fabulous Finds

Antique & Decorative Mall

Little Rock’s fabric and fun place to shop! Selection Changing Daily

30+ Quality Dealers Ser ving our customers for over 25 years!

501-614-8181

2905 CANTRELL ROAD TUES.- SAT. 10-6 & SUN. 12-5

Minutes from downtown Little Rock

www.sonnywilliamssteakroom.com

Monday - Saturday, 5pm - Close • 500 President Clinton Ave. Little Rock, AR • 501-324-2999 VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

CONTENTS 6 WELCOME

From Little Rock

8 WELCOME

From North Little Rock

10 FAMILY FUN 16 ITINERARIES

16 Dog Parks 16 Mother and Daughter Day 17 Cyclists 18 Hot Springs 20 Breweries 21 DIY Crafter

10 28

22 HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOODS 22 River Market 24 East Village 26 South Main District 28 Main Street / Creative Corridor 30 Hillcrest 32 Heights 34 West Little Rock 38 Riverdale / Midtown 40 Park Hill / Lakewood 42 Argenta

44 TOP FIVE LOCALS GUIDE 44 Dazz & Brie

45 Janelle Lilley 46 Rett Peek 46 Graham Gordy

56 4

VISITORS GUIDE â&#x20AC;¢ 2020

47 LOCALLY CRAFTED 48 LOCAL GALLERIES 49 FINE LOCAL SHOPS 52 FAVORITE EVENTS 54 SPORTS IN NORTH LITTLE ROCK 56 SCAVENGER HUNT 58 GOOD EATS 62 THE DINING GUIDE

Visitors Guide The

To Greater Little Rock and North Little Rock 2020

DISCOVER WHERE THE LOCALS EAT, SHOP AND PLAY

VISITORS GUIDE • 2017

PHYLLIS A. BRITTON Publisher CAROLINE MILLAR Editor MIKE SPAIN Art Director BROOKE WALLACE TERRELL JACOB LEE MAJOR DAMIAN POOLE Account Executives WELDON WILSON Production Manager/Controller ROLAND R. GLADDEN Advertising Traffic Manager KATIE HASSELL MANDY KEENER Advertising Designers LUCY BAEHR Director of Marketing and Events ROBERT CURFMAN IT Director CHARLOTTE KEY Accounting ANITRA HICKMAN Circulation Director ON THE COVER: Riverfront Park and Little Rock skyline. Photo by Brian Chilson.

WELCOME!

BRIAN CHILSON

FROM THE LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU MEET GREATER LITTLE ROCK! Situated in the heart of Arkansas, this region is celebrated for its charming hospitality and genuine people. Wonderful attractions, award-winning restaurants, entertainment venues and new hotels await you throughout the city. In 2004, the William J. Clinton Presidential Center opened and ushered in a new era of invigoration for our city. It, along with the newly renovated Robinson Center, the city’s state-of-the-art performance hall, bookend our thriving downtown district, where eclectic shops and restaurants thrive. No matter what part of our city you visit, you’ll never be far from our most natural resource: the abundant outdoor spaces that can be found throughout our city. From the 17-mile Arkansas River Trail, a biker’s or hiker’s dream along the Arkansas and Little Maumelle rivers, Little Rock has almost endless outdoor spaces to explore. Whether you’re a mountain biking pro or a first-time paddler, Little Rock’s parks and natural landscapes can be the setting for lifelong memories. On your adventures, be sure to look out for La Petite Roche, the small rock that gave Little Rock its name. You’ll find it nestled along the river east of the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden in Riverfront Park, where more than 100 statues line pathways and plazas. See if you can spot the Big Dam Bridge, North America’s longest pedestrian-and-bicycle-intended bridge. Trust us, it’s hard to miss.

Little Rock is also home to a rich history and heritage. Six of 100-plus sites on the new multistate U.S. Civil Rights Trail are located here, including Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, a “Top 10” trail destination. Museums dedicated to Arkansas military history, American naval military history, natural science, African-American culture and even women’s handbags are just a few of the attractions that are on offer. It won’t take long for you to see why Trivago.com named Little Rock a Top 10 “U.S. Best Value Destination” for three consecutive years, and why both Southern Living and Food & Wine magazine listed it as one of “15 Southern Cities All Food Lovers Should Visit Now.” Discover the pleasant surprise of Little Rock and see why we say “Life is Better with a Southern Accent.” Warm Regards,

Gretchen Hall President & CEO Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau

CO N V E N T I O N A N D V I S I TO R S B U R E A U

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Download our app!

On Apple App Store & Google Play Search OFHCP

Grounds Open Daily

For information (501) 372-6429

Mobile Phone Guide & Map Tour number (501) 708-0011

Ask about our free cell phone tour sponsored in part by a grant from the Arkansas Humanities Council and the Endowment for the Humanities.

2101 Barber St. · Little Rock | oaklandfraternal.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

The Bookstore at Library Square 918-3093 | MON-SAT | 9 AM-5 PM gently read books • unique gift items

The Galleries at Library Square 320-5790 | MON-SAT | 9 AM-6 PM diverse retail gallery • Arkansas artists’ work

CALS.org Library Square | 100 Rock Street

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

WELCOME! FROM THE NORTH LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU IF THIS IS YOUR FIRST TIME IN LITTLE ROCK OR NORTH LITTLE ROCK, WELCOME! Just across the Arkansas River from the capital city sits my beautiful hometown of North Little Rock. When you visit the Central Arkansas area, you’re really getting two-for-one: two downtown nightlife areas, two cities full of history, art and culture, and two communities of people who love where they live, work and play. North Little Rock has undergone some serious transformations over the last few years, including more dining and entertainment downtown; new local dining and shopping in the McCain shopping district; and new ways to explore the outdoors.

cars, an 18,000-seat arena, comedy theater and a brand-new public space called Argenta Plaza, complete with water features and “front porch” swings. In 2020, we hope you’ll stop in to see us at our brand-new visitors center and retail store at 600 Main!

North Little Rock’s hub of creativity and arts is the Argenta Arts District, our downtown Main Street area with dining, entertainment and history. The neighborhood is charming and friendly, while humbly presenting some of the top talent in the world at its performing venues year-round. You’ll find local craft breweries and eateries, vintage street-

• Unlimited ways to explore outdoors. Go by bike, by kayak, on foot. Throw a disc, swing a racquet, kick a soccer ball, play with your dog. Voted “Best Park” and runner-up “Best Place to Mountain Bike” in Arkansas by Arkansas Times readers, Burns Park is an impressive 1,700-acre park with golf and disc golf courses, dog

Other must-dos in our beautiful city include: • Activities for multigenerational fun. During the summer, spend a day at Arkansas’s largest water park, Wild River Country; enjoy the favorite American pastime of baseball at Dickey-Stephens Park; or take family photos at the gorgeous Old Mill (free and open daily!).

BRIAN CHILSON

o t e m o c l e w k c o r e l t t north li park, pedestrian trails, tennis courts and numerous playgrounds. The Arkansas River Trail is a scenic 17-mile loop crossing pedestrian and cyclist-friendly bridges. Even take a guided sunset kayak tour or stand-up paddleboard yoga on the Arkansas River. • Face-to-face with history. At the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, see the National Historic Landmark USS Hoga, a tugboat that fought fires after the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. Also tour the longest-serving submarine in the world, the USS Razorback. Everything you want to know about North Little Rock’s colorful past can be found at the North Little Rock Heritage Center. Visit www.northlittlerock.org for upcoming events and festivals, dining and things to do. We’ve even made it easier for you to find restaurants and attractions near you with a free app (“Explore North Little Rock!” in the App Store and Google Play). We hope you enjoy your visit to North Little Rock!

Bob Major President & CEO North Little Rock Convention And Visitors Bureau

Fun is part of our DNA here. And it’s no surprise, with so many great places to be entertained and celebrate creativity. Like exciting worldclass concerts and sporting events. Outdoor adventure at Burns Park, Arkansas’s largest urban municipal park. Recreation on and by the Arkansas River. And the local breweries, theaters and chef-driven restaurants in our Argenta Arts District. So get ready for fun, and come see what we’re up to!

So...what’s there to do around here? Check northlittlerock.org or download our free app for: • • •

Upcoming concerts, events and festivals Dining, attractions and hotels near you Share events, places and plans with family and friends

Explore North Little Rock!

north little rock convention & visitors bureau

NorthLittleRock.org (501)758-1424

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Family fun I

f your family’s desires are split among visiting a science museum, a water theme park or attending a live children’s theater production,

you can do it all right here in Little Rock and North Little Rock! Our many venues offer unique experiences for parents and children both.

ALLSOPP PARK

Cantrell and Cedar Hill roads, LR, Map at littlerock.org/ParksRecreation A forested 150-acre park in the middle of Little Rock, Allsopp is where kids play softball and tennis and hike on wooded trails. A soft-surface playground is surrounded by shaded picnic tables with grills, and there’s a covered pavilion with a fireplace that’s the perfect spot for roasting marshmallows.

ALTITUDE TRAMPOLINE PARK

157078 Chenal Parkway., LR, 501-353-1281 altitudetrampolineparklr.com Altitude Trampoline Park offers more than

200 interconnected trampolines as well as a foam pit, slam dunk area and dodge ball. There’s also a kids’ zone just for little ones who weigh 80 pounds or less.

ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER CHILDREN’S THEATRE

2510 Cantrell Road, LR, 501-372-4000 arkarts.com The Children’s Theatre presents stage versions of classic stories, often with a modern spin and original music. While the Arts Center in MacArthur Park is being renovated, plays will be performed at the Arts Center Riverdale on Cantrell Road and at other locations

in the community. Four productions are scheduled for the 2019-20 season. Find details at blogarkansasartscenter.org.

ARKANSAS INLAND MARITIME MUSEUM

120 Riverfront Park Drive, NLR, 501-371-8320, aimmuseum.org The north shore of the Arkansas River is home to the U.S.S. Razorback, the longestserving submarine in the world. Other attractions include the historic tug U.S.S. Hoga (YT 146), displays and programs on the impact of maritime trade, the inland waterways system, the Arkansas River and

400 W. Broadway, NLR, 501-664-1555 travs.com From April through September, enjoy a night at the ballpark with the whole family watching the Arkansas Travelers, the AA minor-league baseball team that makes its home at Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock. Feast on barbecue as well as brats, hot dogs, peanuts and popcorn from the concessions; for grownups there’s draft beer; soda for the kids. There’s a Kids Korner playground, too.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

BRIAN CHILSON

ARKANSAS TRAVELERS BASEBALL

Little Rock’s dining and craft food and beverage scene is on the rise. Whether enjoying lunch with best friends, using our Locally Labeled Passport program to sample our city’s ever-expanding offerings of ales, wines and spirits, or savoring any of the amazing meals our local chefs are creating, there’s never been a better time to enjoy great food and drink in Little Rock. Find your flavor in

LittleRock.com

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

BRIAN CHILSON

Historic Arkansas Museum aquaculture. This museum is recommended for children over the age of 5.

ARKANSAS REGIONAL INNOVATION HUB

201 E. Broadway, NLR, 501-907-6570 arhub.org “The Hub” offers workshops and classes regularly for all ages to try their hand at “making,” from pottery, screenprinting and 3D printing to coding and woodworking.

ARKANSAS SKATIUM

1311 S. Bowman Road, LR, 501-227-4333 arkansasskatium.com This hot spot is a cool place to roller skate and ice skate — all in one building. Also find skating lessons and a snack bar.

BIG ROCK MINI GOLF AND FUN PARK

11411 Baseline Road, LR, 501-455-3750 bigrockfunpark.com Among Little Rock’s premier family destinations, this attraction has go-karts, an arcade, batting cage, bumper boats and mini golf — all in one location. Try its exciting aerial adventure and maze.

BURNS PARK

Interstate 40, Exit 150, NLR, 501-791-8538 nlrpr.org This 1,700-acre park in North Little Rock is one of the nation’s largest. Its list of attractions includes a two 18-hole championship golf courses, disc and miniature golf courses, a

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

tennis complex, softball and soccer fields, playgrounds, archery range, BMX track, hiking trails, picnic areas, camping, an amusement park (Funland) and One Heart Park, the city’s first inclusive playground for kids of all abilities.

CENTRAL ARKANSAS ESCAPE ROOMS 108 W. F Ave., NLR, 501-396-9787 Centralarescapes.com The older kids will appreciate this experience of working as a team to solve puzzles and collect clues before time runs out.

HEIFER VILLAGE

1 World Ave., LR, 501-907-8800 heifer.org Heifer Village provides a hands-on educational (and entertaining) experience for the whole family. Visitors can learn about global consciousness and ending poverty and hunger worldwide. With special programs throughout the year, Heifer also has a cafe and gift shop on site.

Did you know? The North Little Rock neighborhood known as Argenta (French for “silver”) got its name in the 1870s for the silver mines in the area.

HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON CHILDREN’S LIBRARY AND LEARNING CENTER

4800 W. 10th St., LR, 501-978-3870 cals.org This 30,000-square-foot facility is a world scaled just for kids, with small cozy reading nooks and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that look out onto the lush grounds. In addition to its more than 20,000 books, the library has special events throughout the year, a teaching kitchen, activity area, DVDs and CDs, a 165-seat theater, greenhouse, a teaching garden, walking trails and an amphitheater.

HISTORIC ARKANSAS MUSEUM

200 E. Third St., LR, 501-324-9351 historicarkansas.org Visitors of all ages will enjoy learning about Arkansas frontier life and meeting living history interpreters on the museum’s antebellum grounds. The kids will love the newly refurbished children’s gallery, where they can use a skeleton key to unlock a playhouse and pump a bellows to stoke a cooking fire. Each spring, the museum hosts a Territorial Fair, and in December it welcomes the Christmas Frolic.

JUMP ZONE

9250 Commerce Cove, NLR, 501-907-5867 jumpzoneparty.com Kids can jump for hours in this indoor inflatable park featuring seven enormous, unique inflatable adventures. Find obstacle courses, slides, a bouncy carousel and more.

RIVER TRAILIN’: A fresh-air itinerary for the family on foot. B

LIAM MICHAELS

egin your day of adventure along a turtle-counting contest on the the Arkansas River Trail at the boardwalk trail at the William E. Museum of Discovery, where “Bill” Clark Presidential Park exhibits like Tornado Alley, Earth Wetlands. For a second unique Science and the Tinkering Studio museum experience, your kids will keep your kids intrigued for at can sit behind the executive desk least an hour. After buying a few inside a full-scale replica of the take-home science kits at the gift Oval Office at the William J. store, parents will want to refuel Clinton Presidential Center at Zeteo Coffee nearby. Next, (plus, the facility’s glass-encased it’s onward to the Witt Stephens escalators are a sheer joy to Jr. Central Arkansas Nature ride). Then it’s back to the trail Center, where long-whiskered to the last stop at Cafe @Heifer catfish and other aquatic life for a snack (it closes at 3 p.m.). native to Arkansas will glide past Heifer International’s free, William E. “Bill” Clark Presidential Park Wetlands your kids at eye level from the interactive exhibits are a chance nature center’s many aquariums (alligator feedings are at 2 p.m. to cool down and learn about the ingenious ways that Heifer Fridays). As you head back east along the River Trail, tall, stately helps impoverished families all over the world live better cottonwoods will mark your entrance to the Clinton Presidential lives (we love the interactives on water pumps, bee-keeping, Grounds. You’ll take notice of the likewise colossal hills, which coffee-roasting and more). On the way out, buy your kids the the whole family will want to run down screaming at the top of nonprofit’s famous storybook, “Beatrice’s Goat,” and pat the their lungs! The random pieces of cardboard you’ll find lying alpacas, goats and other farm animals at Heifer’s Urban about were left by another family for you to use to sled down Farm. Hail the trolley back to the River Market (there’s a the green grassy slopes (that’s how we sled in Central Arkansas). stop on Heifer’s grounds) and promise your tired little souls Next, test your children’s newfound knowledge of biology with ice cream at Kilwin’s to keep spirits high! n

Great for all ages, but caters to children 10 and under.

LITTLE ROCK CLIMBING CENTER

12120 Colonel Glenn Road, Ste. 7000, LR, 501-227-9500 littlerockclimbingcenter.com Burn some energy and build confidence with your kids at this indoor climbing gym. There

are auto-belay and partner-belay setups throughout the gym with routes for every skill level. For kids 5 and older.

hundreds of species of animals — penguins, elephants, chimps, tigers and rhinos among them — and take a whirl on the historic carousel, a ride on the train or play on the playground. The zoo hosts frequent animal education events, camps and special events, such as Boo at the Zoo, throughout the year.

LITTLE ROCK ZOO

1 Zoo Drive, LR, 501-666-2406 littlerockzoo.com There are endless opportunities for fun at the Little Rock Zoo! Spend the day with

MAGIC SPRINGS THEME AND WATER PARK

1701 E. Grand Ave., Hot Springs 501-624-0100, magicsprings.com Spend a thrilling day at this theme and water park with roller coasters, thrill rides, kids rides and more just 50 miles outside of Little Rock. Admission includes all-day use of the rides and attractions in both parks. Open weekends from April through October and daily late-May through mid-August.

MILLENNIUM BOWL

BRIAN CHILSON

7200 Counts Massie Road, LR, 501-791-9150 millenniumbowl.net Hit the lanes at this bowling alley, which features 32 lanes, an arcade, a snack bar with adult beverages for parents, and more.

Big Rock Mini Golf and Fun Park

MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY

500 President Clinton Ave., LR, 501-396-7050 museumofdiscovery.org Learn, play and explore at this sciencedriven museum with countless exhibits and VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

also has a playground, campgrounds, trails, picnic areas and a visitors center with educational activities. Located west of downtown Little Rock, this park gives families a chance to get back to nature without leaving town.

ONE HEART PLAYGROUND

11 Funland Drive, NLR, 501-791-8538 nlrpr.org One Heart Playground, Arkansas’s first fully inclusive playground, was inspired by Emma Wasson, who was born with a congenital heart defect and Turner Syndrome. Her parents and North Little Rock Parks and Recreation opened it for children with varying degrees of physical and sensory impairments.

BRIAN CHILSON

RIVER RAIL STREETCAR

Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center

activities for kids. Look for rotating exhibits and tinkering demonstrations as well as a playroom designed especially for children under 6, and more. Science-themed toys can be found in the gift shop.

PEABODY PARK

202 La Harpe Blvd., LR, littlerock.com/little-rock-destinations/ peabody-splash-park-riverfront-park Just west of the Junction Bridge in Riverfront

501-374-5354 rrmetro.org Three replica vintage streetcars take visitors on a nearly 3.5-mile route through downtown Little Rock and North Little Rock. Riders travel past the River Market, Clinton Presidential Center, Heifer Village, Dickey-Stephens Park, the U.S.S. Razorback submarine and more. Day passes are available to hop on and off the streetcar during your visit.

DEFY LITTLE ROCK

Park, this playground includes large native stones for climbing, a splash pad, slides and tunnels.

4711 Talley Road, LR, 501-313-0100 defy.com Kids will enter a whole other world of fun at this trampoline park filled with fun obstacles, a dodgeball court, flying trapeze, zip-line and more.

PINNACLE MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

11901 Pinnacle Valley Road, LR, 501-868-5806 arkansasstateparks.com/ pinnaclemountain Climb Central Arkansas’s highest peak at Pinnacle Mountain State Park, which

WAR MEMORIAL SPLASH PAD

Inside War Memorial Park at 5110 W. Markham St., LR, 501-663-0854 littlerock.com/things-to-do/detail/warmemorial-park A perfect spot for children and families, the War Memorial Splash Pad features caves, slides, waterfalls and a playground for hours of water fun. Free admission and appropriate for all ages.

WILD RIVER COUNTRY

6820 Crystal Hill Road, NLR, 501-753-8600 wildrivercountry.com North Little Rock’s popular water park offers 26 acres of water activities. Open from May through August, there are water slides, wave pools, a lazy river, the Tad Pool for young kids, pavilions and a sand volleyball court.

BRIAN CHILSON

WILLIAM J. CLINTON PRESIDENTIAL CENTER

Little Rock Zoo

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

1200 President Clinton Ave., LR, 501-374-4242, clintonfoundation.org Kids can learn about our nation’s 42nd president through thousands of artifacts, photographs and interactive exhibits that

tell the story of the Clinton presidency from the campaign trail to the end of his tenure. View a replica of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room, and explore the many temporary exhibits.

WITT STEPHENS JR. CENTRAL ARKANSAS NATURE CENTER

602 President Clinton Ave., LR, 501-907-0636 centralarkansasnaturecenter.com This downtown nature center features a variety of indoor wildlife exhibits and outdoor nature exploration. Survey the nature trails and look for native wildlife such as turtles and butterflies. There is also ongoing nature programming for the whole family.

THE WONDER PLACE

10301 N. Rodney Parham Road, LR, 501-225-4050, thewonderplace.com This indoor play space especially designed for kids 8 and younger offers lots of opportunities for children to expand their imaginations. A water table, tree house, drama stage, puppet area, art studio, vet clinic and farmers market are just a few of the play stations at this attraction.

Z82 RETROCADE

4051 E. Kiehl Ave., Sherwood, 501-425-9863 Just beyond North Little Rock, in the city of Sherwood, you’ll find kids and adults enjoying the greatest arcade games of our time. The Retrocade charges admission for unlimited gaming on restored machines including Donkey Kong, Street Fighter, Killer Instinct, NBA Jam, Tron, Galaga and more.

LITTLE ROCK’S MOST AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT 1619 REBSAMEN RD. 501.663.9734 • thefadedrose.com

ZIG ZAG

623A Beechwood St., LR, zigzaglittlerock.com This new, one-of-a-kind children’s art studio offers drop-in art space for kids on Saturdays from 9 am. to noon. Parents can enjoy a coffee while the kids make a mess under somebody else’s roof! Check its website for scheduled classes, too. n

R.I.P. Dogtown In 1965, North Little Rock’s mayor arranged a mock funeral and graveside service to forever bury “Dogtown,” a derogatory name given to North Little Rock in the early 20th century (it’s believed that Little Rock residents began dumping unwanted dogs on a hill in North Little Rock in the late 19th century.) Despite the funeral, the name stuck and locals don’t mind it so much.

Where can you get dinner and a shoW for a great price?

Serving up fun,food and fabulous live entertainment since 1967. Colonel Glenn & University • murrysdp.com • 501-562-3131 VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Itineraries For Every Visitor

MacArthur Park’s UNLEASHED

Bark Bar

AFTERNOON WITH YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIEND Y

our dog will make instant friends at any one of Central Arkansas’s unleashed dog parks: the new Barks and Rec Dog Park in Burns Park in North Little Rock, Paws Park at Murray in Murray Park or MacArthur Park’s UNLEASHED. Bark Bar is a dog-friendly bar located in SoMa, with indoor and outdoor play areas and doggie ales (human ales, too); just make sure you bring your dog’s shot records or submit them online at barkbar. com. In Hillcrest, shop pet-themed decor at Stifft Station Gifts & Sundries, where you’ll find a cat-themed pillow for the feline

pal left at home. Since life is short, especially for dogs, taste the house-made treats at Just Dogs Gourmet in West Little Rock, whose Squirrel Cookies, Pupcakes and Birthday Paws are sure to accelerate your pup’s drooling problem. Drive back over the river to Argenta, the downtown North Little Rock neighborhood, and take your dog for a run along the Arkansas River Trail. After he’s properly dug for all things stanky in the sandy riverbank, you’ll want to eat and drink on the dog-friendly pet-io at the nearby Diamond Bear Brewing Co.’s Arkansas Ale House. n

MOTHER-DAUGHTER DAY (or a day with an old friend)

BRIAN CHILSON

Root Cafe

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

ince this itinerary is planned with pampering and quality-time in mind, we’re going to suggest you treat yourselves to a stay at The Empress of Little Rock, a Queen Anne-style bed and breakfast located in Little Rock’s historic Quapaw Quarter downtown. Rise and shine: Start your morning with a walk past Southern magnolias and through the old neighborhood to the Governor’s Mansion Historic District, followed by breakfast in SoMa, the neighborhood south of Interstate 630 along Main Street, at Boulevard Bread Bakehouse & Market for artisan pastries and coffee. Next, take a scenic, civil rights-themed drive through the Quapaw Quarter via Daisy Gatson Bates Drive, named for the activist and heroine of Little Rock’s 1957 school crisis. Bates will lead you to the Central High School National Park Visitors Center, where you’ll follow the footsteps of the brave

BRIAN CHILSON

WHETHER YOU’RE A CYCLIST, DIY CRAFTER OR TRAVELING WITH YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIEND, OUR CONCIERGE HAS PLANNED A CENTRAL ARKANSAS ITINERARY TO MATCH YOUR INTERESTS.

Did you know? The Big Dam Bridge is the longest pedestrian and bicycle-only bridge built for that purpose in North America.

And...

which loops around the riverfront of Little Rock and North Little Rock. Fantastic views of rocky cliffs along the river, with interesting potential detours along the way, like Fort Logan H. Roots, a late 19th century military base, and Emerald Park, make this ride one of a kind. There are all sorts of ways to access the trail, but you can always find a place to park in the North Shore Riverwalk Park in North Rock. After you’re finished, celebrate your full day of cycling by brew-hopping at Flyway Brewing Co. (the house-made pretzels come with choice of artisan salts), followed by more craft beer at Diamond Bear Brewing Co., which has fantastic brats at its Ale House. Now that you’re slap-happy from too much exercise and beer, dance off your Jello-legs to local live music at Reno’s Argenta Cafe or Four Quarter Bar and you will sleep easy at day’s end. n

BRIAN CHILSON

nergize for a big day of cycling with a breakfast biscuit and coffee at The Meteor, where you can also purchase any forgotten gear or, better yet, a brand new Orbea bike. If you’re a mountain biker, make sure you check out the newly opened trails at Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area (9516 Barrett Road, near Pinnacle Mountain). These trails are fast becoming a local favorite for their downhill, single-track routes for all skill levels, including, for experienced riders, an optional black diamond line that drops you off a mini-bluff about eight feet. Atop the ridge, the breathtaking views will tell you why they call Arkansas The Natural State. After Rattlesnake, you’ll have worked up an appetite for carnitas and drunken beans at Local Lime. For a less strenuous, but equally satisfying, afternoon cycle, do the paved Arkansas River Trail,

LIAM MICHAELS

CYCLISTS

Little Rock Central High School is one of seven national parks in Arkansas, and the only operating school within a national park.

Cycling (left) and bike repair & water stations along the Arkansas River Trail.

Little Rock Nine, the students who desegregated Central. Lunch on seasonal salads and spicy Banh Mi sandwiches at the Root Cafe. After lunch, stroll down the block and shop the Esse Purse Museum’s gift store, which carries the most unique handbags around, and weigh your purses on its scale and Polaroid station. Next, head to Sixth street in downtown Little Rock to Bella Vita Jewelry, whose owner, Brandy McNair, will work with you to custom design a special piece using mom’s gems, or make hand-stamped, matching bracelets. Next, head to the Heights neighborhood for the late afternoon milk-and-honey manicures you scheduled at Caracalla (if there’s any extra time, Fabulous Finds on Cantrell Road is a fun antique stop). When your hands are smooth as a baby’s bottom, make evening plans over fine wine at By the Glass Wine Bar to see a show at Murray’s Dinner Playhouse or South on Main (two places where you can enjoy entertainment during dinner), or a play at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre. n

Central High School National Park Visitors Center VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Itineraries

DAY TRIP TO SPA CITY

Red Light Roastery

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

BRIAN CHILSON

f you want to venture outside Little Rock and North Little Rock, Hot Springs is a fun, culture-filled destination less than an hour away. The prime attraction for many is Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, a casino and horseracing venue. It’s amid a $100 million expansion that will add a high-rise luxury hotel and multipurpose event center. Additional gaming space is scheduled to open in January 2020. Live horseracing runs from January through March. A tour of Bathhouse Row, the eight buildings along Hot Springs’ Grand Promenade, is essential. Garvan Woodland Gardens, part of the University of Arkansas System, proves that there is artistry in gardening. Throughout the year, the gardens host a variety of events such as photography exhibits and workshops for a variety of artisans. Take On Bathhouse Row: The Lamar, opened in 1923. the kids to Mid-America Science Museum, which recently revamped its exhibits and added new features, solar-powered radio station they helped found. The couple also including a skywalk in the trees, a digital dome theater and an outowns Starlite Club (232 Ouachita Ave.), the dive bar next door, door dinosaur display. Low Key Arts is a public art nonprofit and the place to be after dark. Other favorites: Superior Bathhouse venue that produces many of the city’s cultural events, including Brewery (329 Central Ave.) is an ideal place to get a beer and some the music festivals Valley of the Vapors and Hot Water Hills. appetizers downtown and watch the crowds. The Avenue does Hot Springs is fast becoming a pizza destination, too. DeLuca’s fine dining with a Southern flair right in the lobby of The Waters Pizzeria Napoletana (831 Central Ave.), helmed by Brooklyn transHotel, the boutique hotel that opened in 2017 and has raised the plant Anthony Valinoti, turns out some of the best pizza in the state. bar in downtown accommodations. Red Light Roastery offers SQZBX (236 Ouachita Ave.) is the city’s No. 1 new pizza hangout. small batch craft coffee roasted in-house. Rolando’s specializes in Spouses Cheryl Roorda and Zac Smith, known widely as the polka Latin American cuisine. You can’t go wrong with other Latino favorduo Itinerant Locals, co-own the pizzeria and microbrewery (Smith ites Taco Mama, La Hacienda or Capos Tacos either. For great handles all the brewing) and share space with KUHS-LP, 97.9, the pub grub, try Bleu Monkey Grill. n

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SQZBX Pizza

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VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Itineraries

BREWS AND SPIRIT LOVERS Named for the largest bird migratory route in the Americas — the Mississippi River — Flyway Brewing Co. (NLR) consciously steeps Arkansas into everything little thing it does, from Arkansas grains in its craft beers to the interior design of its restaurant. Bluewing Berry Wheat is far and away its best seller, but we also recommend Peregrine Pale Ale or a seasonal like Thrasher Black Lager, which it brews in the winter Located in the up-and-coming East Village district of downtown Little Rock, Rebel Kettle Brewing (LR) resides in a rehabilitated warehouse, its large industrial garage doors still intact. It’s the only brewery we know of that hosts periodic Beer Yoga in its beer garden. Even if you don’t enjoy your brew in the lotus position, you’ll want to hop it up in the beer garden, one of the most happening outdoor patios in Central Arkansas with some of the state’s most inventive (and tasty) brews on offer. We like the shareable cheese fries on the menu, which does standard pub fare with a Cajun-Creole twist. Stone’s Throw Brewing (LR) has a chill, neighborhood-wateringhole vibe at its two locations (Ninth Street in downtown Little Rock and on Markham Street in Stifft Station). The owners — whose

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ake the ale trail through Little Rock and North Little Rock, which also includes an award-winning distillery. Rocktown Distillery (LR): Tours and tastings at this award-winning distillery will answer all your burning questions about how to make bourbon, vodka and gin. After your end-of-tour sample, you’ll want to linger in Rocktown’s oak barrel-cellar-vibe tasting room, where you can enjoy hand-crafted cocktails from the full bar. Our takehome favorite: a bottle of Feast in the Field Gin, whose subtle hints of ginger root, basil and juniper derive from botanicals grown at Heifer International’s Urban Farm. Diamond Bear Brewing Co. (NLR): Despite the dozens of trendy new breweries popping up all over Central Arkansas, the state’s original craft beer brewery remains our tried and true. With inspired names like Dogtown Brown, Pig Trail Porter and Southern Blonde, Diamond Bear brews with a healthy dose of local pride. Diamond Bear offers tours Friday-Sunday and is dog-and-family friendly. Its restaurant, Arkansas Ale House, offers scrumptious foods that pair wonderfully with beer, like fried cheese curds or spicy peanut appetizers, and brats, burgers and salads. Take a six-pack of its Big Rock Root Beer home to the kids.

Diamond Bear Brewing Co.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

BRIAN CHILSON

Rocktown Distillery

motto is “Blood, Sweat and Beers” — don’t care to mass produce, or even distribute much beyond Pulaski County. We never liked cider until we tried it at Stone’s Throw; the brewery’s year-round offering is Pear Guavara, which is dry, crisp and bubbly. This favorite local dive also hosts regular fun like Bingo Night (Wednesdays), Trivia Night (Thursdays) and New Brew Fridays on the first Friday of the month. Now the largest brewery in Arkansas, Lost Forty Brewing (LR) sees a packed brewery and restaurant in the East Village daily. We love to gaze at the thousands of pallets of cased beer on full view from the windows connecting the restaurant to the warehouse. Our new favorite is the Day Drinker, a Belgian Blonde. We have friends whose refrigerators stay fully stocked with East Tiger Mexican Lager and the Trash Panda IPA. This is one of the few local breweries whose brews can be found in almost every grocery and liquor store in town. While you’re on your local booze cruise, also check out Vino’s Brewpub (LR), the longest running brewery in Central Arkansas and Buffalo Brewing Co. (LR) in the Heights. n

THE DIY CRAFTER

Argenta Bead Co. on Saturdays, you’re likely to meet their artists at work stringing jewelry or painting in the retail space. Jewelry-makers will love the selection at Argenta Bead Co. on South Main, where you can also take a class or ask for private instruction by appointment. Seamstresses, upholsterers and home decorators: Cynthia East Fabrics in Riverdale has a unique selection of fabric, plus trimmings, wallpaper, pillows and crafted gift items. Lovers of knitting and crochet: Stifft Station Gifts & Sundries has a room devoted to yarns, and welcomes you to craft while visiting (we wonder if its “You Crafty Bitch” socks for sale would offend our quilt-and-knitaholic aunt Jenny?). Finally, for artists and crafters of all types, Art Outfitters downtown has the supplies you need of a quality you won’t find at the big boxes. Make the most of your vacation and ask about its journaling kits, collage-making and brush pens for aspiring calligraphers. n

Stone’s Throw Brewing

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lan your visit to Central Arkansas in advance to learn a DIY craft at South Main Creative, which offers a broad range of classes, such as indigo dyeing, making macrame plant hangers or how to repurpose your old wardrobe (check its calendar at southmaincreative. com). Yella Dog Press also offers classes on printmaking in traditional handset letterpresses (email owner Kate Askew at yelladogpress@gmail.com for details). A large number of hand-crafted objects are on display at the William J. Clinton Presidential Library, items gifted to the former president from hundreds of foreign heads of state. Hand-painted Moroccan boxes, ornately engraved swords and hand-knitted baskets are just a few examples; there are contemporary works for sale at the Clinton Museum Store. More colorful, internationally made goods can be found at Heifer International’s gift store. Arkansas, too, has a strong craft heritage, so you’ll want to check out the decorative arts (quilts, pottery and decorative furniture) on exhibit Historic Arkansas Museum’s Arkansas Made Gallery, plus shop crafts made by contemporary Arkansas artisans in the museum gift store (the small embroidery kit is a great traveling companion). We love the selection of woodwork on sale at Butler Center’s Retail Gallery, where,

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Cynthia East Fabrics VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

River Market T

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he River Market is Central Arkansas’s gathering place where folks come out to hear music festivals, cycle the Arkansas River trail, or dance the night away at its happening bars. With new hotels in the area, coffee shops and endless dining options, there’s scarcely a reason to leave this round the clock district.

Agasi 7 Rooftop Bar and Kitchen There are a lot of different ways to view the River Market: You can zoom past all the sites upright on a Segway rented at 404 Tour Co., or take one of their guided tours to the Clinton Presidential Center, Heifer International or Riverfront Park. You can gaze at Junction Bridge’s rainbow-colored lights on a sunset kayak tour with Rock Town River Outfitters. Your kids will love to peek out from behind animal sculptures at the Schwartz Sculpture Garden, where they’ll also hang upside down from the park’s playground. The River Market is also an arts district, where traveling Broadway shows play at Robinson Center each year, like “Wicked” and “Cats,” as well as performances by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra. Independent films screen at the smaller Ron Robinson Theater, which also hosts music concerts and author readings. Speaking of the literary arts, the Central Arkansas Library System hosts the Six Bridges Book Festival each year (formerly known as the Arkansas Literary Festival) with big name authors, concerts and films.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

SHOP:

Nativ brand t-shirts, organic “sniffle” tea and Arkansas quartz crystals are just a few examples of the locally-made only merchandise sold at the Freckled Frog. Fine, artisanmade wares are on sale at the Butler Center for Arkansas Studies, ranging from woodwork and fiber art to glass sculptures and jewelry. Barakat Bespoke caters to male couture clientele seeking hand-crafted, well-tailored men’s suits, while Fringe Clothing and LUV dress and accessorize young, chic women for a night out on the town. Find the perfect gift or souvenir to take home to friends at The Barn Mercantile or Bookstore at Library Square.

EAT & DRINK:

Get your java fix at one of four coffee houses at the River Market: Blue Sail Coffee, Nexus, or Zeteo Coffee. @the Corner serves our favorite diner-style brunch with locally sourced ingredients. For lunch, order a slice (and they’re BIG) at Iriana’s Pizza, which has been around for more than three decades, or if you’re a Chicago native, Damgoode Pies does it deep-dish style. Experience what Southerners do best with chicken at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, where the hardest decision you’ll make is breast, thigh, leg or wing, but if you like choices Stickys Rock ’n’ Roll Chicken Shack offers Junction Bridge a dozen flavorings in hand-breaded batter and house-made sauces for the dunking. To satisfy your appetite Delta-style, Doe’s Eat Place (west of the River Market by several blocks) serves familysized portions of tamales & chili, steaks and seafood and if you’re lucky you’ll spot their most loyal patron, Bill Clinton, dining inside. To impress corporate partners, reserve a table at Sonny Williams’ Steakroom, where the LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

SEE & DO:

chef won’t cut corners with the aged angus steak or Alaskan King Crab legs. To enjoy modern southern cuisine in luxury, the Capital Hotel One Eleven’s James Beard-award-winning chef prepares dishes as beautiful as they are delicious (their staff sommelier will pair the wines). Across the hotel’s lobby is the more relaxed but equally top-notch Capital Bar & Grill, whose charcuterie board is best sampled over a handcrafted cocktail. Cache puts a fresh contemporary twist on American favorites like seared ahi tuna, which they serve with fried wontons. Everybody goes for the fried baskets at Flying Fish, although their grilled trout plates and fish tacos are every bit as mouth-watering. Dizzy’s Gypsy Bistro is where we decompress over happy hour specials and cheese dip. Copper Grill serves wonderful lunch and dinner entrees in a business-casual setting. To change things up we’ll try the empanadas and other Argentinian fare at Buenos Aires Grill and Cafe. If we’ve indulged too much lately, we’ll get a bowl at Poke Hula, which serves fresh veggies and sushi over greens or steamed rice, Hawaiian style. 4Square Cafe & Gifts makes our favorite vegan wrap with curried chickpeas, tofu and veggies. To end on a sweet nostalgic note, Kilwins makes caramel apples, chocolate fudge and so many more magical confectionaries right before your eyes. For a quick bite or grab-and-go fare, check out the River Market’s Ottenheimer Hall, where our favorites include Indian Feast, Middle Eastern Cuisine, Platnum BBQ and David’s Burgers.

NIGHTLIFE

Some evenings are meant for watching the football game at Big Whiskeys. Dugan’s Pub is great spot away from the craziness of the River Market, but close enough to join in on the fun if you get the itch. To pick up the pace a bit, Flying Saucer Draught Emporium offers hundreds of beers from around the world, and their front of the house tables are the best people watching spots on the strip. Dance it off at Ernie Biggs and Willy D’s, Little Rock’s favorite dueling piano bars. Spice things up with salsa and tango dancing at Club 27 and catch the big concert at Rev Room. Take a final nightcap in the sky at Agasi 7 Rooftop Bar and Kitchen, located on the top floor of the Hilton Garden Inn. n

Dugan’s Pub

Where Food & Wine Intersect...

Come Shop Local!

Locally Grown MEATS VEGETABLES • FRUIT HONEY • ICE CREAM COFFEE

405 E 3rd St. | Little Rock, AR | (501) 791-6700 | www.strattonsmarketlr.com

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Robinson Center

Live Music Fri & Sat • Free Wi-Fi Bloody Mary Bar Sat & Sun 11-3 Football on Our Screens (American & The Rest of the World!)

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Party Room For Up To 35 People LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF 3RD & ROCK STREETS IN THE RIVER MARKET DISTRICT

401 E. THIRD, LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 WWW.DUGANSPUBLR.COM • 5O1.244.0542 VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

S! uilt as Little Rock’s first industrial park in the 19th century, the East Village is Little Rock’s hip, up-and-coming neighborhood. Warehouses that once housed paint and glass factories are now opening their garage doors to craft breweries and beer gardens. It’s also home to one of only 13 presidential libraries in the nation and the headquarters of Heifer International.

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LIAM MIC

HAELS

East Village

Clinton Presidential Park Bridge (left), Clinton Presidential Library Oval Office replica (above), Heifer International (below)

LIAM MICHAELS

SEE & DO:

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Visitors can sit behind the president’s desk in a full scale replica of the Oval Office at the Clinton Presidential Library to experience life inside the Executive Office. Green building tours are available at Heifer International, whose rainwater collecting systems, natural light sensors and other ingenious green features won this facility the nation’s highest honor in sustainable architecture. Natural beauty surrounds the area. Local gardening clubs keep Heifer’s Urban Farm beautiful year-round. The William E. “Bill” Clark Presidential Park Wetlands trail is our favorite turtle-watching spot with stunning views of the Arkansas River on the pedestrian-and-bike friendly Clinton Presidential Park Bridge. To see your Big Lebowski fantasy come true, reserve a lane at Dust Bowl Lanes and Lounge next to its sister operation Fassler Hall’s German beer garden.

Did you know? Little Rock is home to several international headquarters, including Heifer International and the American Taekwondo Association.

The Railyard Cathead’s Diner

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Cathead’s Diner serves up Southern comforts cafeteria style with meat-and-three plate specials and grab-n-go plates for picnicking with the family. For a more upscale experience in a serene setting, 42 Bar & Table offers farm-totable meals with exceptional riverfront views and cutting-edge, modern architecture. Cafe @ Heifer, located inside Heifer International, offers a quick and tasty lunch from a grill and freshly baked treats. East Village also encourages pub crawls through some of the best craft breweries in Central Arkansas: Rebel Kettle (we love their Working Glass Hero Blonde and Cajun-inspired “shareables”); Lost Forty (Snake Party IPA and Hoppin’ John hummus) and The Railyard, a food truck hub, craft beer garden and the brick-andmortar home to Count Porkula, which dishes up some of the best barbecue around. Bowlers at Dust Bowl Lanes and Lounge will want to refuel on pretzels, beer and sausages at Fassler Hall next door. n

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EAT & DRINK:

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HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

South Main District T

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

SEE & DO:

BRIAN CHILSON

he South Main district, or SoMa, is Little Rock’s most eclectic neighborhood, where historic charm gets mixed in with the creative beat of its residents and business owners. We love to stroll past the art sculptures that line almost every block, whether we’re headed to a vintage shop, an ingredientconscious restaurant or out to hear live music. It’s also a DIY crafter’s mecca with many one-of-a kind shops offering courses in everything from refinishing furniture to beadwork. It’s no wonder Southern Living named SoMa the “Next Great Neighborhood.”

Argenta Bead Company

Catch the district’s cool vibes at SoMa After Dark the first Friday of each month, when businesses stay open late with specials like pop-up ice cream stands, customized jewelry, happy hour and live music. One of the best farmers markets in Central Arkansas takes place at The Bernice Garden (Sundays April through November) where you’ll find locals shopping for farm-fresh produce and sampling prepared bites amid sculptures, crafts and live music. The ESSE Purse Museum offers one of the most unique collections to be found anywhere — it’s one of only three purse museums in the world — and the hundreds of 20th century handbags on display will leave you pondering the joys and struggles of the women who carried them. Don’t miss out on ESSE’s gift store, which carries stunning handbags ranging from high fashion to hand crafted, each designed by a woman. When we’re in a rut,

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we sign up for a class at South Main Creative, which offers DIY crafting classes like silkscreening, gilding and weaving. Crafters will feel like a kid in a candy store inside Argenta Bead Company, whose giant swathes of glass beads shine like rainbows in the storefront windows; it also offers classes for beginners and advanced jewelry artists. Mystery-loving problem solvers can challenge their friends to an hour at The Escape Little Rock, where teamwork will make escape possible from prepared “game rooms” themed with mysteries like “The Lost Antidote” and “Hors D’oeuvres & Obituaries.” For a true Southern experience, South on Main offers the best of Southern cuisine and music, attracting top talent through its partnership with the Oxford American magazine.

Moxy Modern Mercantile

Shop with a clear conscience at the Green Corner Store, which carries eco-friendly and sustainable products such as locally made honey, soaps and pickling kits (tea lattes, tea tonics and kombucha on tap at their tea bar). Electric Ghost sells adorable succulent plant arrangements on the side of its main business as a screen-printing boutique. Vintage lovers will love the great selection in SoMa, like Sweet Home Furnishings & Clement, whose owners keep their inventory fresh with beautiful and oddball finds, like a naturalistic oakleaf sculpture hand-carved from marble, or a giant vintage anatomical heart model. South Main Creative puts a contemporary twist on the traditional antique mall with booths ranging from unique vintage items to fine art and artisan-made goods. If your own furniture desperately needs a facelift, Reinvented Vintage owner Annabelle Rector will guide you to a line of vintage-inspired milk paints, and she’s also teamed up with interior decor boutique White Goat to offer custom paint services. Off-beat vintage-inspired gifts can be found at Moxy Modern Mercantile, which feels like 1970s San Francisco: old vinyls, incense, obscene birthday cards and feminist books. Just a mile outside the district, Hearne Fine Art carries the best selection of African-American fine art in the state.

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SHOP:

Southern Blonde

LITTLE ROCK’S PREMIER BIG CITY BAR

EAT & DRINK:

Rarely do we highly recommend every food establishment in a neighborhood, but you really can’t go wrong in SoMa. Come morning time, Community Bakery will challenge you (or not) to decide between dozens of freshly baked donuts (load a box of cinnamon

Did you know? SoMa is an accredited Main Street America Program. It takes a dedicated community with a vision to become a member of this national downtown revitalization network.

1224 Main Street | LITTLE ROCK, AR | 501.712.4713 | atlassoma.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

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HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

Rocktown Distillery twists and chocolate glazed for the road?) or a giant slice of German Chocolate cake or apple pie to enjoy over gourmet coffee. Boulevard Bread Company specializes in artisan breads like rustic Italian ciabatta, baguettes and white sourdough, baked fresh daily (try the house-made chicken salad and pimento cheese on the eight-grain bread for lunch). True bliss lies inside Loblolly Creamery, where house-made ice cream comes in your favorite flavors (double vanilla, strawberry buttermilk, salted caramel) and seasonally inspired ones like fresh lavender. We love the authentic street food at Dos Rocas, where the meals are inspired by one owner’s native Paraguay, and made from scratch with local ingredients. More local ingredients can be had at The Root Cafe (it shares owners with Dos Rocas), which serves farm-to-table style favorites like biscuits and gravy for breakfast and spicy veggie banh mi sandwiches for lunch. Aside from the great salads and pizzas, Raduno Brick Oven and Barroom has one of the most handsomely stocked bars around, perfect for hanging solo or catching a game. For good cocktails with good friends, Atlas Bar is sure to please with an ambiance and drink menu inspired by world travels. Esters welcomes pet lovers, vegans and meat lovers to forget their differences over ping pong and beer. If you’re looking for something stronger, tour Rocktown Distillery and sample the house-made gin, vodka, whiskey or rum. Night owls will keep on into the wee hours at Midtown Billiards over pool, a greasy burger and a late-night band. n

Main Street Creative Corridor/ Downtown I

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t happened in every downtown in America: New department stores and suburban development in the 1970s drove commerce away from Main Street’s commercial core, leaving behind blocks of vacant storefronts and dilapidated buildings. But, thanks to visionary developers and unique proprietors, Little Rock’s downtown is beginning life anew. Talented artists with the Arkansas Repertory Theatre, Ballet Arkansas and the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra bring a special energy to the area now called the Main Street Creative Corridor. Together, the corridor and the surrounding downtown have brought the pulse back to the heart of Little Rock.

SEE & DO:

Theatrical productions keep audiences on the edge of their seats at multiple performing arts venues in downtown Little Rock. Since 1976, the Arkansas Repertory Theatre has brought in professional actors from all over the country to deliver life-changing performances. The Studio Theatre and Weekend Theater showcase local talents for smaller and more intimate live production experiences. Wanna get creative? Try The Southern Studio for a DIY day painting something cool while sipping wine with friends.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

ATLAS BAR

SHOP:

Atlas Bar

Push pause and enjoy life’s simple pleasures by getting a good shave or cut at the new Handle Barbershop, where the barbers prefer you call them by their nicknames and offer hot-or-cold-towel treatment with service. The owner at Bella Vita Jewelry takes time with her clients to customize special pieces to last a lifetime; she’ll repair your cherished family heirlooms, too. Take indulgences home, like a bag of freshly roasted and ground coffee from Blue Sail Coffee Roasters and a box of European-style truffles from Cocoa Belle Chocolates, Arkansas’s only certified professional chocolatier.

Classic Cuts & Shaves BRIAN CHILSON

IN THE HEART OF

Bella Vita Jewelry

EAT & DRINK:

Downtown Little Rock Professionally trained barbers deliver precision haircuts, straight razor shaves, beard trims, and a unique social experience. A community oriented shop located in the heart of Downtown Little Rock on the Edge of Sixth and Main.

When we’ve got tickets to see a show at The Rep, we’ll reserve a table at Allsopp & Chapple and take delight in the chef’s twists on classics like filet mignon (coffee-cured) or lasagna with house-made pesto ricotta. For truly authentic dining, Three Fold Noodles and Dumpling Co. pleases with Chinese favorites tailored to your heat preference, and Bruno’s Little Italy serves up traditional family recipes. Soul Fish Cafe satisfies a craving for fried catfish (and burgers, tacos and kids meals, too) and has great outdoor seating options. Haybird is a delightful Chinese take on fried chicken from the owners of Three Fold. Find your go-to sashimi and sushi favorites at Wasabi Bar & Grill, then try the “Big Dam Bridge” and “Lion King” rolls for a culinary adventure. The garlic-infused wood smoke that lingers on the block at Main and Fourth streets lures us into Samantha’s Tap Room & Wood Grill, where more than 20 wine and beer offerings are available on tap. The bartenders at 109 & Co. craft their cocktails with ingredients (and names) you won’t find in your hometown pub, like Pigs Coattail, a concoction of gin, apricot liquor and rhubarb bitters. When out with friends, we’ll live out our “Big Lebowski” fantasies at Dust Bowl Lanes, and wait for the lane we reserved at Fassler Hall biergarten next door. Theme nights like Drag Bingo keep us laughing and dancing at 610 Center, a gay club that opens its doors to all. Brewski’s Pub & Grub offers a low-key sports bar vibe, with pool tables and all. Little Rock’s original brewpub is Vino’s, where house brews, pizza and alternative rock mix it up. n

Book Online to schedule and manage appointments. Walk-ins welcome but booked appointments take priority. 524 MAIN ST. 501-590- 4328 www.handlebarbershop.com

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A Consciously Curated Boutique

Three Fold Noodles and Dumpling Co.

108 W. 6th St. Suite A Little Rock, AR 501.396.9146 108 W. 6th St. Suite A • bellavitajewelry.net 501-396-9146 www.bellavitajewelry.net VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

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Hillcrest H

illcrest and the Heights originally shared the same township called Pulaski Heights, one of Little Rock’s earliest suburban neighborhoods. This entire area located just a few miles west of downtown Little Rock came up at the same time as the city’s streetcar. Hence that wide, meandering girth called Kavanaugh Blvd., the commercial artery that connects Stifft Station at West Markham Street (a new mural marks its trolley stop origin) to Hillcrest and all the way up to the Heights. We love to walk, shop and eat our way down the tree-lined boulevard, where craftsmanbungalow porches exude the laid-back, hospitable vibe that made us move to the South in the first place. Whether you’re enjoying happy hour on a restaurant patio, visiting the local Saturday farmers market, or shopping the unique stores, you’re sure to exchange hellos with Hillcrest residents who rarely find a reason to leave their neighborhood.

SEE AND DO:

BRIAN CHILSON

The whole neighborhood and their dog comes out to Harvestfest each fall, where good food, music and the locals make this one of Arkansas’s best festivals. Opening nights for the latest local art shows at Gallery 26 are sure to bring a crowd and a live band. The ample greenspace in this hilly, tree-filled neighborhood also makes it a destination for park-goers; Allsopp Park is one-part woods, abundant with hiking trails, and the other part recreational, with a ballpark, playground and all the amenities you need to roast hot dogs and s’mores. Knoop Park, tucked away at the northernmost end of Hillcrest, has the best skyline view of downtown Little Rock. For the youngest of artists, Hillcrest’s newest artspace, zig zag, offers children a walk-in studio in which to draw, paint and create.

Gallery 26

Knoop Park

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

SHOP:

Jewelry lovers will love shopping the one-of-a-kind pieces beautifully displayed at Hillcrest Designer Jewelry and Box Turtle (Gallery 26 offers locally made works, too). Control is a popular new record shop. The young and hip will love E. Leighs for the sexy cocktail dresses and great denim. For eclectic home furnishings, stop in at Haus Werk or Kahler-Payne Antiques, and have the art work or family portraits you got two years ago custom-framed at Hillcrest Gallery. Find the perfect Christmas gift at Stifft Station Gifts, Rhea Drug and The Full Moon.

It’s hard to choose which coffeehouse we should haunt regularly in Hillcrest these days. Meteor Cafe is where we catch up with an old friend over sunshine and shiny tabletops (and drool over the shiny new bikes in Meteor’s connecting store). Rosalia’s Family Bakery satisfies our craving for Brazilian cheese bread that melts in your mouth (along with the good smells coming from the kitchen at nextdoor’s Cafe Bossa Nova). Mylo Coffee Co. is the only one of the three that roasts its coffee on-site, and where the cappuccinos come artfully topped with foam oak leafs. Tea lovers will get hooked on the Yerba Mates Kemuri Sushi and Japanese Grill at Abbi’s Teas & Things, the perfect cozy reading nook on a rainy day. Families especially love U.S. Pizza Co. and Damgoode Pies, while Cañon Grill’s fajitas, quesadillas and burgers promise to please everyone, including vegetarians. El Mezcal Mexican Bar and Grill is a new and popular Mexican restaurant and the arepas at Venezuelan restaurant La Terraza Rum & Lounge are addictive. Hill Station is a great family-friendly destination to get burgers and sandwiches. The Pantry Crest offers Czech and German classics like wiener schnitzel and house-made Hungarian sausage in a chic, contemporary setting (its beer and cocktail menus are dynamite, too). The colorful and strikingly executed signature Japanese dishes at Kemuri Sushi and Japanese Grill make its dining experience memorable. Ciao Baci has one of the best outdoor patios in the city, perfect for sipping wine over calamari or marinated olives. We still dream about the decadent chocolate sack dessert at SO Restaurant, a blissful layering of cake, ice cream and graham cracker crumb inside a tempered chocolate bag. Just outside Hillcrest, across from the state Capitol, you’ll find an excellent lobster roll and other seafood dishes at The Capital’s Seafood House. We love the chilltime vibes at Hillcrest’s dives. Stone’s Throw Brewing Stifft Station Taproom is the second and new location of one of our favorite small-scale craft breweries in town; they also have super fun game nights. The Oyster Bar makes ’em fried or on the half shell, with Cajun classics like gumbo, po’boys and etouffee. People-watch over a cold one at Hillcrest Fountain, where locals meet up to play pool or watch the game. Pizza D’Action, a smoking bar like the Fountain, is known for its nightlife, although it’s also become a favorite Sunday brunch spot rivaling Leo’s Greek Castle. You’ll hear the best music at the White Water Tavern, a small venue where grandmas and hipster twentysomethings make it to the dance floor. n

BRIAN CHILSON

EAT AND DRINK:

LUNCH • DINNER • SUNDAY BRUNCH 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. • Little Rock, AR 72205 (501) 660-4100 • KemuriRestaurant.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

Heights B

ound by that wide, winding commercial core named Kavanaugh Boulevard, the Heights is like Hillcrest’s bougie big sister, who from her slightly greater altitude enjoys the luxuries of fine art, chic clothing boutiques and interior decor shopping. But despite these airs, the Heights remains true to its roots as an old neighborhood, where you’ll find locals out running errands to the grocery, bookstore, hardware and paint stores, all close to home.

Beyond the shops and eateries, the ritzy historic dwellings that comprise the Heights are worth their own driving or walking tour. This should include gargoyle-spotting at the Catholic Diocese of Little Rock, the century-old former St. John’s Seminary. All summer long, visit the Westover Hills Farmers Market, operating Tuesday evenings May to September; grab a bite from the food trucks nearby while you shop. Monthly, there’s Thursday Night in the Heights for merchant specials, food and music. The Heights is home to a number of street festivals, including Handmade in the Heights, Chili Fights in the Heights and Cinco de Heights. Visiting runners will want to take part in the free Thursday night training runs around the neighborhood, beginning and ending at Go!Running. Every July 4, the Heights hosts the Firecracker Fast 5K, the only all-downhill race in hilly Little Rock.

SHOP:

Boutique clothing lovers will love shopping the latest trends in the Heights. Mr. Wick’s Men’s Clothing has been dressing generations of men in dapper elegance since the 1960s, while Feinstein’s, which opened in the 1950s, offers classy and

Heights Taco & Tamale Co.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

well-tailored women’s clothing and cosmetics. Fashion-forward millennials prefer Steamroller Blues; Domestic Domestic promises to please every taste in its leather goods, travel kits and other accoutrements. On special occasions, we take the kids to The Toggery for their Easter dresses or to pick out a birthday gift from its toy store. WordsWorth Books is one of the last locally owned independent bookstores around, hosting book signings with our favorite authors. For a full interior home makeover, visit Cobblestone & Vine for top-quality lines of furniture and textiles, and accent your walls with contemporary fine art from the Heights’ many art galleries: Boswell Mourot Fine Art, L&L Beck Art Gallery, Chroma Gallery and Local Colour. Eggshells Kitchen Co. and Ozark Outdoor Supply inspire us to live better — the former in the way of gourmet cookware, and the latter for comfortable hiking in the rugged outdoors. Wildbirds Unlimited keeps our feeders full with sunflower seeds year-round for the backyard songbirds, while gifts from Doggy Daddy and CARE for Animals keep our canine friends happy. For brides-to-be, take your besties to pick out their bridesmaids dresses at She Said Yes Bridal and treat them to pedicures at Caracalla Spa and a private “Girls Night Out” studio session at The Painted Pig.

BRIAN CHILSON

SEE & DO:

Domestic Domestic

now serving brunch sundays 10am - 2pm

EAT & DRINK:

A gastronomic adventure in the Heights could happily begin sweet tooth-forward with a visit to Le Pops for gourmet icepops. Nearby, of ZAZA Fine Salad & Wood Oven Pizza Co. serves up great eats cafeteria-style. There’s also The Pizzeria for tasty Neapolitan pizza and an excellent cocktail menu, and U.S. Pizza Company-Heights, a Little Rock institution for pizza pie. Another Little Rock stalwart is cozy Cafe Prego. Scallions and Boulevard Bread Co. and Bistro keep it on the light and fresh side, but note that Scallions is only open for lunch. Burge’s does it deli style with its signature smoked turkey and ham. Next door, try a craft beer at Buffalo Brewing Co. in the Heights. For Tex-Mex, there’s Heights Taco and Tamale Co. and also Baja Grill, which began life as a food truck. For seafood options, try Lulu’s Crab Boil. Or go pan-Asian at Poke Hula, That Ramen Place, Sushi Cafe or locally beloved Fantastic China. Cheers in the Heights has good food in a lovely setting, and one of the city’s best wine lists. One can also lift a glass at By The Glass Wine Bar or Prospect Sports Bar. Walter’s Coffee and Speakeasy has coffee in the morning and a full bar and live music at night, while the Green Room has soups and unique dishes plus a Sunday brunch. Both are located within the Heights Corner Market. Any direction you go, you’re sure to be happy in the Heights. n

The home of Ark-Mex cuisine, Little Rock’s original frozen Spring Fling Mojito, & the cheese dip that beat Texas.

Arkansas owned • Arkansas operated • Arkansas inspired | Located in Little Rock’s historic Heights neighborhood

Located in The Heights • 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd. - A LITTLE ROCK FAVORITE -

WOOD-FIRED

PIZZA HOME GROWN

SALADS

BEER & WINE Located in the historic HEIGHTS neighborhood 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd. • 501-661-9292

ZazaPizza

FINE SALAD & WOOD-OVEN PIZZA CO.

BRIAN CHILSON

For more information about entertainment and dining in Central Arkansas, visit www.arktimes.com.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

West Little Rock L

ittle Rock’s ever-expanding west is often considered posh and trendy, with plenty of people, shops, restaurants and bars. But there are also lots of things to do in the great outdoors, like biking, hiking and kayaking.

SEE & DO:

That rising beacon to Little Rock’s west is Pinnacle Mountain, and it’s so much a part of Little Rock identity it’s featured on the city flag. Nearby is beautiful Lake Maumelle, the city’s primary drinking water source and a sailboat destination. Pinnacle Mountain State Park is an iconic Arkansas place for an easy — or challenging — hike and bike trail ride, or just to picnic, stroll and play. Another gem is Two Rivers Park, located at the confluence of the Arkansas and Little Maumelle rivers. It has a community garden, trails and is a great spot for strolling, cycling, kayaking or canoeing. Need more nature? Visit Wildwood Park for the Arts and saunter around Wildwood’s pond, garden and nature preserve, and take in a performance. If indoor fun is more your speed, good ol’ American ten-pin fun can be found at Little Rock’s legendary Professor Bowl, or, for roller skating or ice skating, roll over to the Arkansas Skatium. Fun is also in the air at Altitude Trampoline Park and Defy, where you find dozens upon dozens of trampolines, obstacle courses and

activities for kids as well as adults. Take the adventure to new heights at Little Rock Climbing Center. Parents with younger children will love The Wonder Place for arts and crafts, music and play. Laugh it up at the Loony Bin Comedy Club, or take in a film at AMC Chenal 9 IMAX or the Cinemark Colonel Glenn. When it’s time to relax, get a massage at Rejuvenation Clinic Day Spa or at Ava Bella Day Spa, or just kick back and have a cigar at Dave and Sons Cigars and Pipes, West End Cigars and Cafe Havana, where the Cuban coffee is an added attraction. Release your inner artisan at Pinot’s Palette, or get baked at a class at Art Is In Cakes Bakery & Supply.

SHOP

Save a few dollars while thinking sustainably; keep your little ones outfitted at Children’s Orchard and Ritzy Kidz Consignment, and update your wardrobe at the Clothes Mentor, Fashion Exchange, Plato’s Closet or at Haven Resale Shop, where your purchase of gently used clothes and accessories benefits a nonprofit. Check out the latest trends at Beyond Cotton, Beyond Cotton 2 or Vesta’s. Get your kicks at Rock City Running, Fleet Feet Little Rock or Rock City Kicks. Want to update your outdoor space? A visit to Ken Rash’s Arkansas is in order.

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

EAT & DRINK:

Pinnacle Mountain

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

West Little Rock has such a plethora of options, lovers of food and drink may simply follow their taste buds. Start your day sweetly at DJ’s Donuts, Honey Pies, Delicious Temptations, the Whimsey Cookie Company or Mickey’s Cakes & Sweets, home of decadent petit fours. Guillermo’s Coffee, Tea & Roastery will help put a spring in your step, while the western outpost of the city’s Community Bakery

Pleasant Shopping.

Plan a pleasant day of shopping, dining, classes and spa treatments at Pleasant Ridge! BRIAN CHILSON

is also a choice spot for pastry-centric people-watching while getting caffeinated. Milford Track keeps it on the fresh and healthy side in the city’s west, albeit in an odd corporate campus setting complete with a pond. Or, on the opposite side of the coin, have a milkshake at the 1950s-throwback Purple Cow-Chenal. Make that milkshake “adult” if you’ve a mind to, or try a fruity daiquiri at the Dacq Shack. For truly outstanding burgers, there’s David’s, Big Orange and Alley Oops (try an oopetizer while you’re there). Little Rock stalwart Shorty Small’s also does burgers and a variety of American dishes. For pizza, there’s venerable Shotgun Dan’s or relative newbie Sauce(d) Bar and Oven, which has wood-fired pies and a good variety of craft beer and wine. Taziki’s Mediterranean Cuisine offers international fare, as does Zen Thai Fusion and Aji Ramen Bar (both ramen-focused), Istanbul (Turkish) and Pho Thanh My (Vietnamese). A trio of fine Indian establish-

AMC Chenal 9 IMAX

Pleasant Dining.

Pleasant Ridge.

11525 Cantrell Road • Little Rock • www.PleasantRidgeTownCenter.com

Plan Planaapleasant pleasant day day of of shopping, dining, classes shopping, dining, classes and andspa spatreatments treatments at at Pleasant PleasantRidge! Ridge! Pleasant Shopping.

Pleasant Dining.

Pleasant Ridge.

11525 Cantrell Road • Little Rock • www.PleasantRidgeTownCenter.com

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

BRIAN CHILSON

Purple Cow-Chenal.

ments — Taj Mahal Indian Kitchen, Star of India and Saffron Indian Cuisine — all sit within a gulab jamun ball’s toss of one another. If you’re in the mood for steak or fine dining, check out Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse, Table 28 or the Butcher Shop, long a city staple. When it’s time to let loose, Grumpy’s Too, the Tavern and Thirst N’ Howl are fun bars where you might catch games, karaoke or live music. Zin Urban Wine & Beer Bar has a great wine and beer selection and a private party room. Try a margarita at El Porton or Señor Tequila, or eliminate the middleman with a delight of a tequila flight at Local Lime. The German-leaning Pantry Restaurant has craft beers and refreshing cocktails, while Keet’s Corner Bar at Petit and Keet has a mixologist on staff. No matter which direction you head in West Little Rock, you’ll find something to enjoy. n

craving bright, fresh, cali-mex inspired dishes? keep it local.

STREET-STYLE TACOS | CRAFT MARGARITAS AHI TUNA CEVICHE | FRESH SALADS ICE-COLD BEER | HOUSE-MADE DESSERTS ARTISAN COCKTAILS AND MUCH MORE

@LocalLime @LocalLime_Rogers 36

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Arkansas Owned & Operated for 7 years LITTLE ROCK, AR & ROGERS, AR locallimetaco.com | #eatlocaltacos

LocalLimeTaco.com

PLEASANT RIDGE T

his open air lifestyle center on Cantrell Road, anchored by Belk and The Fresh Market, is the home to a number of national retailers and restaurants. But it's long dedication to local businesses make it a stand out destination. Whether you’re looking for locally owned dining, beauty and spa services, stylish clothing boutiques, home interior or kitchen supplies, Pleasant Ridge is the place to visit. Here is a list of Pleasant Ridge businesses that you will only find in Arkansas.

Vi s i tOurAwar dW i nni ngRe s t aur ant s

The Art Group Gallery Beyond Cotton II Cobblestone and Vine

5Cent r alAr kans asLoc at i ons Cat er i ngLi ne: ( 501)7652798 t az i ki s c af e. c om

Coming Home Emphatic The Everyday Chef Forsythe’s/Kristin Todd Howse Istanbul Mediterranean Just Blow Pout Powder & Smoke Roberson’s Fine Jewelry Rose Spa Salon L Scarlet/Salon Scarlet Sky Modern Japanese The Toggery Unique Threading Vesta’s Warren’s Shoes J. Duke

1 6 2 0Ma r k e t St . Li t t l eRo c k , AR7 2 2 1 2 Re s e r v a t i o n s : ( 5 01 ) 3 1 9 7 6 7 5 p e t i t a n d k e e t . c o m

Nooma The Robust Olive Santo Coyote Vanness Schickel’s Cleaners The Ridge Wine and Spirits Clips Hair Studio The Grind Bistro 11525 Cantrell RD. Little Rock, Ar 72212 pleasantridgetowncenter.com

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

Riverdale/Midtown R

iver views, park land, corporate offices complexes, legendary city restaurants, apartments and established neighborhoods all commingle in Little Rock’s Riverdale, located just west of downtown and bordered on one side by the Arkansas River. Just up the road to the north, Midtown is a destination for shopping, eating and outdoor recreation.

SEE & DO:

The big thing to do in Riverdale even has “big” in its name — The Big Dam Bridge, which crosses the Arkansas River at a lock and dam. It’s located at the north end of Rebsamen Park, and is the longest pedestrian bridge in North America. Every day, runners, walkers and cyclists of all

a beer or wine at Riverdale 10 VIP Cinema while seeing the latest movies and classic films in a renovated space. For weekend fun into the wee hours, Discovery is a huge nightclub with themed rooms; Triniti is a dance club with drag shows, a lounge and multiple bars. The fun is always flowing in Riverdale. In Midtown, the Little Rock Zoo and War Memorial Park are highlights. At the zoo, you’ll find 200 species of animals, including cheetahs, grizzly bears and penguins. The park includes War Memorial Stadium, which hosts football and soccer games, concerts and other events. The War Memorial splash park across the street from the stadium is a great place to cool off with the kids during the summer.

SHOP:

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

Riverdale offers a wonderful little interior design hub where those refurbishing their homes will find high-quality American-made furniture and rugs at mertinsdykehome, and bolts of stunning upholstery and drapery fabric (wallpaper samples, too) at Cynthia East Fabrics. For antiques, you are sure to find a special heirloom from one of the many booths inside Fabulous Finds Antique Mall. Offset the old charm of your antiques with freshly potted green accents from Botanica Gardens. Midtown is home to three major shopping centers filled mostly with national chain stores: Park Plaza Shopping Mall, anchored by Dillard’s; Midtowne Shopping Center; and Park Avenue Shopping Center.

The Big Dam Bridge

BRIAN CHILSON

speeds use this popular bridge with the playfully naughtysounding but technically accurate name. And Rebsamen Park contains more than the Big Dam Bridge, of course. There’s fishing, soccer fields, pavilions, play areas, green space, and Rebsamen Golf Course, a municipal 18-hole course featuring Champion Bermuda greens. Rebsamen also offers a nine-hole executive course, on Tri-Dwarf Bermuda greens. The Big Dam Bridge and Rebsamen Park are points along the Arkansas River Trail, a (mostly completed) 88-mile loop that connects Little Rock and North Little Rock. Burns Park, on the north side of the river, is the largest municipal park in Arkansas, and is accessible from the Little Rock side by crossing the Big Dam Bridge. If, instead of sunlight, darkness is your thing, enjoy

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Midtowne Shopping Center

RIVERDALE 10 VIP CINEMA

BRIAN CHILSON

BEST MOVIE THEATER 2016 2017 2018 2019 Full Food Menu • Serving Beer & Wine Tickets & Gift Cards available online Luxury Leather Electric Recliners with tables in all auditoriums Reserved Seating • Ticket Kiosks in Lobby for your convenience

2600 Cantrell Rd. • 501.296.9955 • riverdale10.com

The Faded Rose

EAT & DRINK:

Little Rock’s Riverdale is rife with great local dining, with the area containing many of the city’s restaurants that have fed locals and tourists for decades. The Faded Rose serves steaks and New Orleans-style cuisine. Nearby is another standard, Maddie’s Place, offering Cajun fare in a casual atmosphere. Still another Riverdale anchor is Buffalo Grill, which serves up Little Rock cheese dip and one of the best burgers in Arkansas. Next door neighbors Loca Luna and Red Door maintain inventive culinary takes on the classics. Down the way is The Fold, a trendy botanas bar in a converted gas station. Try the beloved La Hacienda for a full menu of terrific Mexican dishes, or visit the storied Town Pump for a local bar experience with exceptional grub. Pizza Cafe has thin pizza, frosty beer and a patio on which to enjoy it all. For barbecue, check out the landmark Whole Hog Cafe. Nestled surprisingly in an office building on the riverbank is Brave New Restaurant, an elegant spot for lunch or night out with a great wine list and views of the Arkansas River. In Midtown, Big Orange is always a great spot to get burgers, fries and a shake; you can find inventive cocktails and a smart beer and wine list, too. Jimmy’s Serious Sandwiches is a Little Rock institution that specializes in healthy sandwiches, salads and wraps. n

COME EXPLORE THE HISTORY OF ARKANSAS, ITS NATIONAL GUARD, CAMP PIKE AND CAMP ROBINSON. The Museum’s exhibits tell the story of the Arkansas National Guard that extends back to the Militia days during the territorial period. In addition, the Museum adds the history of Camp Pike/Robinson, which was originally constructed in 1917 to train American soldiers for World War I. Camp Robinson was federalized in 1941 to prepare soldiers for World War II. Memorabilia covering many of the conflicts in which the Arkansas National Guard has participated are included. Military Identification or driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance to get a day pass. Monday - Friday 8am-3pm Free Admission

ARKANSAS NATIONAL GUARD MUSEUM Located on Camp Robinson, North Little Rock Take exit 150 off I-40 and follow the signs to Camp Robinson 501-212-5215 • www.arngmuseum.com

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

Park Hill/Lakewood and Beyond D

ive deeper into North Little Rock and you find the quaint, historic neighborhood of Park Hill and the walkable, family-friendly Lakewood, built around manmade lakes and parks. Explore the shops, restaurants and historic landmarks these neighborhoods have to offer.

SEE & DO:

Perhaps North Little Rock’s best-known vista is the Old Mill. Though it’s recognized by film buffs for its cameo in the opening scenes of 1939’s “Gone With the Wind,” the Old Mill is gorgeous well beyond that cinematic distinction. A bucolic setting in urban environs, the mill contains beautiful gardens that frequently serve as the backdrop for paintings and photography.

SHOP:

The retail scene in North Little Rock is a mishmash of galleries, antique stores, home decor, music shops and more. Red Door Gallery on JFK Boulevard has been framing and selling art by nationally and locally known artists from its Park Hill store for more than 30 years. Park Hill Jewelers can help you choose something new or maintain your priceless jewelry heirlooms. The Hogman’s Gameday Superstore can outfit you properly for Arkansas football games. Plantopia is owned by local garden guru Chris Olsen and staffed by plant experts who don’t mind answering endless questions about annuals and perennials. Plan your next party at Party City, browse the stores at McCain Mall or even stop for a movie at Regal Cinemas and enjoy its stadium seating and RPX screen. Vinyl collectors should take a short drive into the Levy area to visit the Arkansas Record and CD Exchange.

EAT & DRINK:

The Old Mill Across the street, the park connects to a lake with playgrounds and more trails to explore. While touring the area’s historic homes of Park Hill, North Little Rock’s first suburb, in the Park Hill Historic District, look for the fire station nestled amongst the homes. Also look for Idlewild Park to play tennis, basketball or take time out for fun on the playground. On Scenic Hill, there’s UA Pulaski Technical College’s hillside campus. Check the schedule for a concert or show at UA-PTC’s Center for Humanities and Arts Theater (CHARTS), which has hosted everything from original local operas to Arkansas favorite daughter Lucinda Williams. While you are there, explore nearby historic Fort Roots, ride your bike along the trails or roads, and hike through Emerald Park to the cliffs and view the Little Rock skyline and the Arkansas River as it winds to the west. Note: You’re on the Big Rock!

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

BRIAN CHILSON

North Little Rock’s Levy area has a lot of history, and some of its notable spots, like The Forge, a railroad-adjacent bar of yore featured in a movie directed by local hero Joey Lauren Adams, still carry on. Spectator’s Grill & Pub has also been around for years with a solid menu and live music. Rosalinda’s Restaurant Hondureño has authentic carne asada, plantains and casamiento. To the south, Lindsey’s Hospitality House has been dishing out Angry Dave’s barbecue and soul food for decades. Bicycles Further into Park Hill, there’s North Bar, with a strong menu of burgers and pub snacks, and Hawgz Blues Cafe with barbecue, live music and a Sunday brunch. Jacob’s Wings & Grill has hot wings and Greek-inspired specials. Try a taco at La Casa Real or a frozen custard at Scoop Dog. In Lakewood, American Pie Pizza has nightly specials and a game area for children; Lakewood Lounge features fish. Memphis chain Corky’s Ribs represents in Lakewood Village. In nearby McCain Mall, you’ll find BJ’s Brewhouse, Charleys Philly Steaks, Johnny Carino’s, IHOP and Bar Louie locations, and an always-welcome Dippin’ Dots.

BRIAN CHILSON

Home of the Best Steaks & Prime Rib in Little Rock

Rosalinda’s Restaurant Hondureño Out along busy U.S. Highway 67/167 are outposts of locally owned Purple Cow and U.S. Pizza Company. Find the titular tacos at Tacos 4 Life, barbecue at Whole Hog Cafe and fries and shakes at David’s Burgers (also all local chains). There are also Chuy’s, On the Border, Cactus Jack’s, Hideaway Pizza, Saltgrass Steak House, Old Chicago Pizza and Taproom, Hideaway Pizza, Texas Roadhouse and Outback Steakhouse locations. North of Levy in the little village of Amboy is My Friend’s Place for billiards and bar grub. Over in Rose City, birthplace of Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, grab a thick Shotgun Dan’s pizza, a burger at Kibb’s and a shake at Wink’s Dairy Bar. Further north into the Sherwood area, there’s Gadwall’s Grill, an area anchor with an extensive menu and a kids’ game room. Littlefield’s Cafe creates great home cooking; Joey’s Bar and Grill by the Greens at North Hills golf course tees up sandwiches, quesadillas and fried chicken; longtime local favorite JoJo’s Barbecue features pulled pork and house-made sweet potato fries. Be concerned if you can’t find your True North at any of these NLR spots. n

Open for Dinner: Mon-Fri 5pm, Sat & Sun 4:30pm West Little Rock at Shackleford & Hermitage Road 501-312-2748 thebutchershoplittlerock.com

JACKSONVILLE MUSEUM OF MILITARY HISTORY Named One of the Top 175 Places to Visit in Arkansas

Monday–Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 10am-5pm Closed Sunday and most major holidays

ADMISSION Adults - $3 Military & Seniors - $2 18 & Under - $1 5 & Under – Free 100 Veteran’s Circle • Jacksonville 501-241-1943 • jaxmilitarymuseum.org VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

Argenta D

BRIAN CHILSON

owntown North Little Rock, known as Argenta, is a sports and entertainment destination where thousands flock each year to see big-name concerts and sporting events at VERIZON ARENA and to see the ARKANSAS TRAVELERS play ball at DICKEY-STEPHENS PARK. But Argenta is also a quaint, pedestrian-friendly arts district, with a thriving performing arts scene, authentic Italian cuisine and some of the best craft beer and nightlife in Central Arkansas.

Argenta Drugstore

Thea Foundation

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

BRIAN CHILSON

SEE & DO:

Soon, Argenta Plaza, an urban gathering space with movie screens and water features, will open. But tap into the neighborhood’s art scene now: Argenta Art Walk, held every third Friday of the month is an after-hours event at Thea Foundation, Barry Thomas Fine Art Studio, Argenta Gallery and other venues. This arts district especially thrives in the performing arts, with beat poets and other masters of the spoken word performing at the House of Art, and improv and sketch comedy acts at the Joint Theater and Coffeehouse, where you might catch an Elvis impersonator or traveling burlesque troupe performing inside the club’s 100-seat cabaret theater. The year 2020 will mark the debut of the Arkansas Theater Festival, a mullticultural theater experience hosted by North Little Rock-based The Roots Art Connection. The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is home to the USS Razorback submarine, which you can tour and even reserve for a sleepover birthday party.

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SHOP:

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Galaxy Furniture has some of the best vintage furniture in the area, especially for the midcentury modern-style office. To further relish a bygone era, Argenta Drug Co. is the oldest continuously operating pharmacy west of the Mississippi River, which we love for its old neon marquee, 1950s wallpaper, candies and various knick-knacks.

218 Beautifully Decorated Guest Rooms and 12 Luxurious Suites  Fitness Center 14,000 Sq Ft of Meeting Space Free Wireless High Speed Internet  Outdoor Pool  Free Airport Shuttle Complimentary Breakfast  Free On Site Parking Business Center

EAT & DRINK:

Ristorante Capeo offers authentic Italian dishes like ragu Bolognese and spaghetti carbonara (we love the house limoncello with dessert.) Kamikaito serves up tasty sushi and noodle bowls. Mugs Cafe makes a great Thai latte and breakfast tacos, and its lunch menu’s prosciutto and fig sandwich is the perfect combination of sweet and salty. For pub-crawlers, the fare at Reno’s Argenta Cafe, Diamond Bear’s Ale House, Flyway Brewing, Skinny J’s and Four Quarter Bar will keep you sustained. And check out Four Quarter’s excellent live music calendar. Reservations made ahead at Riverfront Steakhouse or Benihana (both located at Wyndham Riverfront) will start the night right before the KISS or Joan Jett show at Verizon Arena. n

Two Award Winning Restaurants In The Wyndham Riverfront

Riverfront Steakhouse

BRIAN CHILSON

2 Riverfront Place North Little Rock Arkansas Call 501-371-9000 for reservations or online www.Wyndham.com

TATTOO SHOP:

MON - SAT | 1PM - 10PM 501-372-6722

SALON:

MON-SAT | 10AM - 6PM 501-374-3544

814 WEST 7TH STREET, LR VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Top Five Locals Guide

FAVORITE THINGS FROM SOME OF OUR FAVORITE CENTRAL ARKANSANS.

DAZZ & BRIE Beloved rock ’n’ soul duo ON A FRIDAY NIGHT you’d find us rocking out or hanging out at one of our favorite venues, White Water Tavern, Stickyz Rock ’n’ Roll Chicken Shack or South on Main. There’s also Four Quarter Bar, Rev Room and Discovery. OUR FAVORITE DRINK OF CHOICE: Dazz: The Old Fashioned from South on Main. The bourbon

HOW WE LIKE TO SPEND A SATURDAY: Everyone has to try K. Hall and Sons at least one Saturday morning in their life for their amazing seafood platter. There’s something so “Brooklyn” about this Arkansas gem. Brie: I love venturing out in nature, so probably climbing Pinnacle Mountain, or checking out the newest exhibits in the art galleries downtown. WE LIKE TO SHOP: We recently lost ourselves at Oak Forest Vintage. They have THE COOLEST vintage and retro gear, which is typically what we wear for outings and shows. Also Crying Weasel Vintage, now located inside of Southern Blonde in SoMa.

BRIAN CHILSON

THE BEST-KEPT SECRET IN CENTRAL ARKANSAS Brie: There is a hidden nature walk with a teeny-tiny “waterfall” in North Little Rock that if you’re lucky enough to stumble upon makes you feel so “small” in the best way. It is the perfect place to meditate and really fall in love with nature. [Hint: This place is near Argenta, close to Emerald Park, behind a concrete wall with paintings on it.] I also love the Heights — I’m constantly on the search for fun aesthetics for photos and the Heights has a very cool hipster appeal and GREAT food — looking at you, Baja Grill. We’ve played a few festivals there and the community really comes alive. It’s beautiful to see. Dazz: The best-kept secret is that this city is progressive and the people here are supportive and excited about new ventures, new entertainment and new businesses. I’m so happy that we, Dazz & Brie, are rooted in such an amazing city and have so many forward-thinking supporters and fans behind us! I’m so proud to call Little Rock home! n

and orange peel just warms my heart and also the rest of me if I have more than one. Brie: Definitely the Day Drinker from Lost Forty! CENTRAL ARKANSAS MUSIC WE LOVE: Joshua Asante. He is an incredible talent and pours so much emotion and energy into his performances! They’re breathtaking to witness! Also, Genine LaTrice Perez brings us to tears when she sings. There are so many incredibly good musicians, it’s ridiculous!

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

JANELLE LILLEY Anchor and news reporter for KATV, Channel 7, in Little Rock TO UNWIND AFTER A LONG WORKDAY, you will find me at Argenta’s local watering hole, Crush Wine Bar. The owner, Joe, has crafted a stellar wine list, but if you don’t like fermented grapes, there is a fridge full of craft beer. Insider tip: Take friends on a Tuesday! You can share any bottle that is regularly priced $40 and below for $20. Sit on the back patio and strike up a conversation with the table next to you. I can almost guarantee they live right down the road from this local gem. WHEN I’M WITH MY DOG: I have a mini goldendoodle named Sandra Doodle O’Connor, Sandy for short. I got her shortly after starting law school (hence the name), so Sandy’s favorite spot quickly became the MacArthur [Unleashed] Dog Park. It’s right next to the law school, so I can easily tote my books there and perch on the rocks while she runs free with the other pooches. In the summer, she loves the kiddie pools they have set up, but she only dips her backside in long enough to cool off, then she sprints out half-soaked because someone just threw a ball and she has major FOMO.

like he owns the place now and when he inevitably tumbles, I’m extra thankful for the rubber ground. My favorite thing about this place is the perfect combination of playground and nature. I love watching him spin on the toddler-safe merry-goround then rush off to dig in the dirt next to the wooden playhouse. MY FAVORITE FESTIVAL: After you happen to sit behind Ted Danson and Mary Steenburgen as they howl with laughter watching “MacGruber” for the first time, the only answer to this question is Filmland [held annually in Little Rock, usually in August]. Did I mention Will Forte was sitting three seats away and Kristen Shaal and I had a conversation about our babies? I missed the Adam Driver event the year before but lived it vicariously through all of my friends who attended. I mean, where else can you enjoy amazing movies, then have a discussion with the people who made them? Plus, I got major wife-bonus points when I ordered my husband a MacGruber T-shirt that Will Forte graciously signed. I love this festival so much, I am now volunteering for Filmland 2019. n

WITH THE FAMILY: I’m a new mom, so most of my outdoor fun now consists of pushing a stroller. That’s how I stumbled upon the Margaret Clark Adventure Park. It’s right off the Little Rock side of the Broadway Bridge, and it is perfect for toddlers and young children. My 1-year-old runs around

BRIAN CHILSON

I HAVE A SWEET TOOTH. The advantage to hosting a Saturday morning show is that I have literally tried every bakery in town. We get treated with ALL THE SWEETS! I also am obsessed with baking shows and fancy myself a future Mary Berry, so you can trust me when I tell you that Blue Cake Co. is my favorite bakery in town. The cakes and petit fours are moist and delicate, and the amazing bakers will work with you to design your perfect creation. However, if you want to become a great baker, go to Art Is in Cakes. I’ve taken four classes with Natalie, so far. Talk about piping skills!

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

RETT PEEK

A Little Rock photographer who specializes in portraiture and architecture BRIAN CHILSON

FAVORITE TRAIL TO BIKE IN CENTRAL ARKANSAS: I’m always drawn to the North Little Rock section of the Arkansas River Trail between the Big Dam Bridge and Fort Roots. It’s a mix of trail and low-traffic roads where you can loop through Burns Park and head up Fort Roots through Emerald Park for a decent little climb and a beautiful view of the Arkansas River Valley.

GRAHAM GORDY

Writer and producer (“Quarry,” “True Detective” season 3, “Antiquities”)

I GET MY CAFFEINE FIX AT The Meteor, and I can always divert to the bike shop for picking up little bike bits and necessities.

IN ARKANSAS, I FEEL LIKE ANYWHERE IS A GREAT PEOPLEWATCHING SPOT. It’s a big part of why I love my home state, and, yes, I routinely sit and steal lines of dialogue or conversations that I overhear to put them in my work. So, yeah, if you see me out eavesdropping, don’t give me away.

WITH THE KIDS ON SUNNY DAYS: Bike rides at Two Rivers Park, hikes in Allsopp Park, Pinnacle Mountain or Emerald Park, or we just walk around the River Trail down near the Clinton Library.

THE BEST-KEPT SECRET ABOUT NORTH LITTLE ROCK IS Historic Park Hill. Our family moved here about five years back and it’s full of adorable houses built mostly in the ’20s and ’30s. It’s walkable and friendly and, while it has a good mix of ages, we’ve made so many friends here and had so many friends move to the neighborhood since we came.

FAVORITE MEAL: Pho at Mike’s Cafe. FAVORITE BEER: Flyway and Lost Forty always have something to keep my palate happy and refreshed. n

FOR LOCAL BEER, we really love Flyway’s Free Range Brown Ale. I was always a fan of Newcastle, but the quality of Newcastle has gotten worse over the years and this local brew is far superior. For cocktails, we defer to our friends at South on Main (and fellow North Little Rockers Amy and Matt Bell), as anything on their cocktail menu is perfect. Even things I don’t think I would like at first read (like their Belle Camino, which has tequila, jalapeno bourbon brine, cassis liqueur and ginger beer) manage to make me a believer.

RETT PEEK

WHEN OFF WORKING IN L.A. OR NEW YORK, WHAT DO YOU CRAVE? Oh, come on. Who wouldn’t say cheese dip? After living in New York for almost a decade and all the time spent in L.A., I cannot for the life of me understand why these cities of 8 million-plus haven’t managed to open a restaurant whose “queso” isn’t trash. My wife, Amy, and I are huge fans of Heights Taco and Tamale’s cheese dip and Gadwall’s cheese dip for the North Little Rock crowd, but, honestly, anywhere that has a bottomless bowl of chips and any kind of cheese dip in our great state and we’re game. And maybe the chips aren’t even that important. To quote our friend Will Churchill’s song “Cheesedippin’,” “If I run out of chips, I’ll just use my lips and turn the bowl up, I don’t care. Have a queso mustache, it ain’t white trash to have a little bit in your hair.”

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

WHEN I NEED TO BUY A SPECIAL GIFT: My daughter has urged me strongly not to shop for her. My wife reminds me around every birthday and anniversary, “anything at Box Turtle.” And they both love any jewelry designed by Bang-Up Betty (my snarky, talented sister-in-law), who sells her stuff at Stifft Station Gifts via bangupbetty.com. n

Locally Crafted

OUR FAVORITE FINDS IN CENTRAL ARKANSAS.

inding one-of-a-kind, exceptionally made wares is deeply satisfying to shoppers seeking something special. While there’s more creative talent in Central Arkansas

than can fit onto this page, we’ll point you to a few of our favorite finds, from a high-fashion, Fedora-style hat brimmed in velvet, to a luxurious line of shaving cream that our husbands and brothers swear by. See what’s in store for you.

ractical and stunning is how we describe WebAndRock jewelry. Can we add that our favorite mint-green amazonite earrings nearly glow on our ears? From her Little Rock home studio, Elizabeth Rogers binds copper to natural stones through a conductive process called electroformation. The result: organic beauty for your everyday. Her WebAndRock line is sold at the Butler Center’s retail gallery at the Galleries at Library Square in Little Rock. Perrion Hurd’s bold and beautiful linoleum block prints are inspired by music, mythology and science. His work can be found at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center’s gift store and Yella Dog Press, where you might meet this warm-hearted and talented artist in action. Stirling Soap Co. of Booneville, Ark., has mastered the art of a good shave with top sellers like “Mountain Man,” a lathery blend of sandalwood, black tea and bergamot. Stirling’s soaps ares sold at Historic Arkansas Museum’s gift store (Little Rock), Wax Worm Gifts & More (Conway), and Dapper & Debonaire and Spa City Barbershop (both in Hot Springs). Crown yourself with a fashion-forward topper from Herron Hats, hand-crafted by Little Rock artisan Markia Herron. Celebrities like R&B singer Anthony Hamilton and actor and writer Lena Waithe have caught on to this up-and-coming Arkansas talent. Herron just opened a new storefront in Little Rock at 217 W. Second St., Suite 110, open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 1-7 p.m. Sunday. Studio potter Beth Lambert combines traditional firing techniques with intriguing symbolism. We’re especially fond of her conjoined bird figures painted in constellations. Lambert’s work WebAndRock can be found at the

Butler Center’s retail gallery at the Galleries at Library Square (Little Rock) and Fox Pass Pottery (Hot Springs). Party proper with the PKGO, a grill made in Central Arkansas that many of us Arkies can’t live without. Our favorite feature (aside from the fact that each casted aluminum body is hand-poured) is its portability. That’s how Bella Vita Jewelry and Gifts we bring the party to any football game, lakeside picnic or swimming hole you find in The Natural State. PK Grills are sold at various retailers in Central Arkansas, including Eggshells Kitchen Co. in Little Rock. Kayce Johnson, who co-owns the Arkansas Yoga Collective, started making small batches of skincare products for her yoga students. Since then, her eco-and-body-friendly Kind Folke products are in high demand, with favorites like whipped body butters and charcoal face bars — even a stick deodorant that keeps a lineman customer dry. Kind Folke products can be purchased at the Arkansas Yoga Collective and Box Turtle, both in Little Rock. Julie Holt’s quirky and colorful ceramic Christmas trees sell like hotcakes during the holiday season. This seasoned local potter creates a variety of wares by hand from her garden studio in Little Rock, including decorative plates, mugs and sculptural works. Her Small Batch Pottery is sold at Box Turtle, Green Corner Store, Gallery 26 and the Butler Center’s retail gallery at the Galleries at Library Square. Brandy McNair’s Bella Vita Jewelry and Gifts downtown specializes in McNair’s one-of-a-kind runs of personalized and hand-stamped charms, natural stones, hand-cast bronze and sterling pendants and vintage baubles. For Little Rock-branded street-wear, including a wide variety of New Era caps, T-shirts and jackets, Rock City Kicks is a destination. We’re obsessed with its Arkansocks line, especially those that feature the silhouette of Pinnacle Mountain. n BRIAN CHILSON

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Local Galleries LOCAL COLOUR GALLERY

Monday-Saturday 11:00am-5:00pm 5811 Kavanaugh Blvd. In the Heights 501-265-0422 www.localcolourgallery.com It's our 17 year anniversary of offering affordable, original art by 35 of Arkansas’ most talented artists. Paintings in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel and mixed media, pottery, glass and wood. Commissions and portraits available. Arkansas’ most successful co-op gallery. Voted “Best Gallery.”

GALLERY 26

2601 Kavanaugh Suite #1 501-664-8996 www.gallery26.com Custom and do-ityourself framing. Paintings, glass, pottery and jewlery by local and regional artists. Open Tuesday - Saturday. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

M2 GALLERY

1300 Main Street, Ste. B 501-225-6257 www.m2lr.com M2 Gallery is located in Downtown Little Rock and offers a large selection of original artwork from both established and emerging artists. With a wide range of style and price, M2 Gallery is sure to fill your art needs. M2 also works with a large network of galleries throughout the country so that we can make sure to find exactly what our clients are looking for. Gallery director Mac and Ashley Murphy have 15 years experience, and has been the driving force behind M2 Gallery winning the Platinum Service Award for several years.

BOSWELL MOUROT FINE ART Little Rock • Miami 5815 Kavanaugh Blvd Little Rock, AR 72207 tel. 501-664-0030 www.boswellmourot.com

Fine Art from local, regional and international artists for the emerging and established collector. Robin Hazard "Bluebonnets for Mary" oil on canvas

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Fine Local Shops

ROCK TOWN DISTILLERY'S gift shop and tasting room is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am - 10pm (midnight on Friday and Saturday). Stop by to purchase bottles, glassware, and other gift items for that special someone on your list. 1201 Main Street, Little Rock, 501-907-5244, www.rocktowndistillery.com

THE JACKSONVILLE MUSEUM OF MILITARY HISTORY explores local and regional military history, both on the battlefield and the home front. The museum gift shop enhances the visitor’s experience by specializing in military related models, toys, posters and books. The shop also offers an extensive line of armed forces related merchandise representing all of branches of service. Shop here for special occasions like military retirements, birthdays and Christmas! Shop is open Monday thru Saturday 10am – 5pm. 100 Veteran’s Circle • Jacksonville 501-241-1943 • www.jaxmilitarymuseum.org

THE CENTRAL ARKANSAS LIBRARY SYSTEM is a great place to find books and a great place to shop. The Galleries include a retail gallery featuring jewelry and artwork by Arkansas artists. You can find unique gift items and gently read books at the Bookstore. The Galleries and the Bookstore are located at Library Square, CALS downtown Little Rock campus. The Bookstore at Library Square 501-918-3093 • Mon-Sat 9am-5pm The Galleries at Library Square 501-320-5790 • Mon-Sat 9am-6pm 100 Rock Street, Little Rock www.cals.org

CYNTHIA EAST FABRICS has been Little Rock’s “go-to” fabric source for over 40 years. You will find materials of every style and description in stock for upholstery, bedding, drapery panels, pillows, plus stunning wallpaper. Their knowledgeable, fun staff will assist you with your selection and coordinate any labor. They do it all. They also showcase imaginative gifts and home accessories. Treat yourself to a visit. Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sat 10 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. 1523 Rebsamen Park Rd. Little Rock 501-663-0460 cynthiaeast.com

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Fine Local Shops

BELLA VITA is a consciously curated boutique featuring their signature line of handcrafted jewelry as well as local, fair trade, and ethical goods from around the United States and the world. Bella Vita specializes in custom, hand stamped jewelry as well as one of a kind jewelry pieces. You can often find the owner in the store making jewelry while you shop. 108 W. 6th St. Suite A, 501-396-9146, bellavitajewelry.net

FABULOUS FINDS has over 30 dealers offering their finds and there is something for everyone. This antique and decorative mall is well worth your time to visit. We have everything from furniture, jewelry, antiques, vintage linens, lamps and accessories to vintage and some newer items. You will find our prices are very competitive. Open Tues-Sat 10-6 and Sun 12-5. Closed on Mondays. Layaways are welcome. We have been in business for over 25 years. Come see us! 2905 Cantrell Rd., Little Rock, 501-614-8181

VISITORS GUIDE â&#x20AC;˘ 2020

Do YOU love Little Rock? Now you can show it, with these adorable gifts from RHEA DRUG STORE in Hillcrest! In fact, they have a gift perfect for everyone on your list, including food treats, toys and games, stationery and journals, plus affordable and chic seasonal clothing. 2801 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-663-4131 facebook.com/RheaDrug twitter.com/RheaDrug instagram.com/RheaDrug

PLEASANT RIDGE TOWN CENTER Little Rock’s most unique Lifestyle Center. 11525 Cantrell Road • Little Rock www.PleasantRidgeTownCenter.com Home to all of these fine establishments:

CLINTON MUSEUM STORE Unique Memorabilia. Exceptional Gifts. Shop online at ClintonMuseumStore.org or in-store located inside the Clinton Presidential Center.

Art Group Gallery • AT&T • Bar Louie Bassett Furniture • Belk Beyond Cotton II • Blaze Pizza Bonefish Grill • Chick-Fil-A Chipotle Mexican Grill Clips Hair Studio • Cobblestone & Vine Coming Home Interiors Emphatic By Dee Rocco Fleet Feet • Forsythe’s Giant Of Little Rock By Spokes Howse • Huntington Learning Center Ideal Image • Istanbul Mediterranean J.duke • Juicy Seafood June’s Hallmark • Just Blow Little Greek • Kristin Todd • Merle Norman Mr. Hui’s Chinese Restaurant Nadeau Furniture With A Soul Newk’s Eatery • Nooma • Panera Bread Pigtails And Crewcuts • Pinot’s Palette Pout • Powder & Smoke Pure Barre • Restore Cryotherapy Rose Spa • Salon Scarlet Schickel’s Cleaners Roberson’s Fine Jewelry Santo Coyote • Scarlet Sky Modern Japanese • Salon L The Everyday Chef • The Fresh Market The Good Feet Store • The Grind Coffee Bistro The Ridge Wine & Spirits The Robust Olive • The Toggery Ubreakifix • Unique Threading Salon UPS Store • Vanness • Vesta’s Warren’s Shoes

THE MACARTHUR MUSEUM OF ARKANSAS MILITARY HISTORY was created to interpret our state’s military heritage from its territorial period to the present. Located in the historic Tower Building of the Little Rock Arsenal, the gift shop offers unique items that enhance and interpret the museum’s exhibits. Choose from a variety of books related to Arkansas’s military past, as well as historical collectibles and traditional souvenirs that serve as reminders of your visit. All proceeds from the gift shop go toward the fulfillment of the museum’s mission to preserve the historic Arsenal Building and interpret Arkansas’s military heritage. Mon- Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1-5pm 503 E. 9th St. • Little Rock 501-376-4602 • arkmilitaryheritage.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Our Favorite Local Events THE 2020 CALENDAR.

JANUARY

LIVE RACING SEASON AT OAKLAWN RACING & GAMING Head to the track at Oaklawn Racing & Gaming in Hot Springs for an exciting season of live horseracing. Live racing begins Jan. 25 and continues through May 2. Don’t forget to check out the gaming facilities with video poker, roulette, blackjack, and more.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE Celebrate Irish heritage at the 21st annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 14 beginning at the corner of Sixth and Main Streets in downtown North Little Rock, and ending at Third and Cumberland Streets in Little Rock. The parade route will feature decorative floats, Irish dancing, Irish Wolfhounds, candy, music and more.

Rock. Find the market in the parking lot next to the Argenta Branch Library at 410 Main St. The market is open on Saturdays from late April until September.

and runs every Saturday through September in the River Market pavilions, 400 President Clinton Ave. The market is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine.

SIX BRIDGES LITERARY FESTIVAL This annual event is the state’s premiere gathering of readers and authors. During a weekend each April, Central Arkansas welcomes well-known national and international authors as well as Arkansas favorites for lectures, workshops, booksignings, cooking demonstrations and more. And the kids aren’t forgotten; several events feature children’s book authors.

ARKANSAS TIMES MARGARITA FESTIVAL This popular tequila-based festival will be back for its fourth year close to Cinco de Mayo. Look for samples of creative margaritas by local restaurants, food and live music at this unique event. Tickets can be purchased at centralarkansastickets.com. Sponsored by the Arkansas Times.

BRIAN CHILSON

BERNICE GARDEN FARMERS MARKET The South Main neighborhood offers a farmers market opportunity Sundays at the Bernice Garden at Main and 14th streets from mid-April until November. Find fresh produce, flowers, food trucks and entertainment.

Little Rock Marathon

MARCH

LITTLE ROCK MARATHON The 18th annual Little Rock Marathon and companion races will take place February 29-March 1 in downtown Little Rock. The fast-growing marathon is a favorite of runners the world over for its combination of flat-road running and hilly climbs and descents through some of Little Rock’s most scenic neighborhoods. Runners can try the full marathon, a half-marathon, a 10K and a 5K. There’s also a Little Rockers Kids Marathon Final Mile.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

APRIL

FOOD & FOAM FEST This lively charity event on April 3 provides samples of more than 400 varieties of craft beer, cider, and wine from around the world with food offerings from local Central Arkansas restaurants. Entry fee covers unlimited drinks, unlimited food, a souvenir cup and more at Dickey-Stephens Park in North Little Rock. DOGTOWN FARMERS MARKET Find certified Arkansas-grown fruits and vegetables along with meats, cheeses and more in historic downtown North Little

JEWISH FOOD & CULTURAL FESTIVAL Explore Jewish and Israeli cultures on April 5. Sample traditional Jewish foods, shop vendor’s booths with jewelry and other gifts, and enjoy traditional Jewish music and kids’ activities. Admission is free.

MAY

LITTLE ROCK FARMERS MARKET The market has already seen more than 40 years come and go as a destination for folks wanting to find anything from fresh strawberries or vegetables to Arkansas-style trinkets, all with entertainment from street performers and other characters. The market starts in early May

INTERNATIONAL GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL If you love baklava and other Greek delights, this annual festival, held the third weekend of May on Napa Valley Road at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, is for you. Just follow the signs to the ample parking outside the festival perimeter and ride the shuttle to the church. Besides the great food, you’ll find music, dancing, vendors and plenty of other entertainment. TOAD SUCK DAZE This family-friendly festival in downtown Conway is the only one in Arkansas (and probably the world) with concerts, carnival rides, arts and crafts, a petting zoo and the World-Famous Championship Toad Races.

JUNE

PIG & SWIG The most perfect food and beverage come together at this premium whiskey- and porktasting event featuring local food and beverage vendors. Get your tickets online at centralarkansastickets.com. Sponsored by the Arkansas Times.

JUNE-JULY

MOVIES IN THE PARK A Riverfront Park staple for a decade now, Movies in the Park presents a popular feature film every Wednesday night starting in early June at the First Security Amphitheater, with the projector kicking on at dusk. It’s free, filmgoers are welcome to bring

DECEMBER

BIG JINGLE JUBILEE PARADE AND STATE CAPITOL LIGHTING CEREMONY Usually on the first Saturday of the month, the Capitol dome is adorned in lights, and fireworks add to the excitement as the city of Little Rock’s Christmas Parade culminates there.

BRIAN CHILSON

YEAR-ROUND Pops On The River

JULY

POPS ON THE RIVER Music and fireworks join forces in this annual Fourth of July event. Enjoy a memorable fireworks display over the Arkansas River that is synchronized to a live performance by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

AUGUST

FILMLAND The Arkansas Cinema Society’s Filmland is a curated annual celebration of cinema featuring local and national film screenings with filmmaker talkbacks, panels, workshops and after-parties. The mission is “to nurture and inspire filmmakers in Arkansas by exposing Arkansans to filmmakers and their art.”

OCTOBER

ARKANSAS STATE FAIR The Arkansas State Fair will set up this family-friendly event Oct. 11-21 on the fairgrounds in Little Rock. Enjoy live music, livestock

ARKANSAS CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL

shows, rides, food, drinks and more for the whole family. CENTRAL ARKANSAS PRIDE/ LITTLE ROCK PRIDEFEST A Little Rock Pride Parade on Oct. 20 in downtown Little Rock, as well as entertainment and events around the Clinton Presidential Park, celebrate the LGBT community. ARKANSAS CORNBREAD FESTIVAL Enjoy some of the best cornbread in the South at this foodthemed festival and cornbread competition in the SoMa neighborhood on Oct. 27. Find great music and tons of cornbread samples in professional and amateur categories. WORLD CHEESE DIP CHAMPIONSHIP Arkansas is believed to be where cheese dip began, and where better to settle on a world champion than in Arkansas? The 2018 event will be hosted at the Clinton Presidential Center in downtown Little Rock Oct. 20. Look for plenty of cheese dip

samples from professional and amateur competitors, live music and more.

NOVEMBER

ARKANSAS CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Arkansas Times and the Argenta Arts District know how to party. Look for the Arkansas Craft Beer Festival Nov. 2, when the Times and AAD share the celebration of the fine art of craft brewing in America by offering samples from more than 150 brewers, as well as local food and music. HARVESTFEST Kavanaugh Boulevard will be blocked from the Promenade to Spruce Street on Nov. 3 for Hillcrest’s annual fall celebration, with food, art and clothing for sale, local music and more, from morning until night. HOLIDAY HOUSE Get your holiday shopping done in one convenient event Nov. 7-10. The Junior League Holiday House at the State House Convention Center hosts more than 150 specialty merchants, selling unique gifts.

BRIAN CHILSON

a cooler, and the River Market vendors typically stay open late to offer food and drinks as well.

ARGENTA ART WALK Every third Friday of each month, North Little Rock welcomes art lovers to its galleries, restaurants and businesses. Hours are 5-8 p.m., with special refreshments and other sidewalk entertainment available. CLINTON SCHOOL OF PUBLIC SERVICE DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES World leaders, famed entrepreneurs, celebrities and activists are scheduled throughout the year to speak at the School. HILLCREST FARMERS MARKET Some of the local markets only run from mid-spring to fall, but the Hillcrest market, held every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Pulaski Heights Baptist Church (22 Kavanaugh Blvd.) runs year-round. More Arkansas produce will be available in the warmer months, but look for meats, honey, jams, baked goods and more for sale at any time. SECOND FRIDAY ART NIGHT Little Rock’s downtown museums and galleries are open from 5-8 p.m. for a gallery walk. SHOP & SIP Hillcrest’s Kavanaugh Boulevard and neighboring streets are rocking until dark — and sometimes later — every first Thursday of the month for, yes, shopping and sipping. Galleries, shops and other businesses welcome visitors starting at 5-8 p.m., and many offer wine and other refreshments. THIRD THURSDAY IN THE HEIGHTS Hillcrest’s neighbor to the northwest saw how much fun was being had at Shop & Sip and started its own party with live music, food vendors, open shops and more. VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Catch a Sporting Event In North Little Rock SPORTS LOVERS AND ATHLETES: FROM LACROSSE MATCHES TO FIREFIGHTER COMPETITIONS, WE’VE GOT SOME SPORTING HIGHLIGHTS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS THIS YEAR.

NORTH LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

NLR SCOTT FIREFIGHTER COMBAT CHALLENGE

NORTH LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

BIG DAM BRIDGE 100

(CYCLING) Sept. 26, 2020, Riverfront Drive/North Shore This tour attracted almost 3,500 cyclists from across the nation and multiple countries in 2018. The race offers several routes ranging between 15 and 100 miles and ends with a block party with live music at the North Shore Riverwalk Park in North Little Rock.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Sept. 2020, McCain Mall (Sears parking lot) A regional event where firefighting teams compete to qualify for the National Combat Challenge of 2019.

ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND TOURISM

DICKEY-STEPHENS PARK

400 W. Broadway St., North Little Rock travs.com The Arkansas Travelers minor league baseball team is the AA affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. milb.com/arkansas.

CAPITAL CITY CUP

(SOCCER) Girls: Sept. 2020, Burns Park Soccer Complex Boys: Oct. 2020, Burns Park Soccer Complex Hosted by United Soccer. Over 200 soccer teams from 11 different states will compete each weekend.

REAL DEAL IN THE ROCK

(BASKETBALL) April, 2020, various gyms throughout Central Arkansas. Hosted by AR H.A.W.K.S, Real Deal in the Rock has been named the No. 1 basketball tournament in the spring. Players from across the nation compete for the Real Deal 9U-17U. Athletes like NBA player Zion Williams are alumni of the Real Deal tournament.

SHOWCASE OF THE SOUTH

(SOCCER) Girls: January 2020, Burns Park Soccer Complex Boys: January 2020, Burns Park Soccer Complex Teams from all over the South compete in this United Soccer annual soccer tournament at Burns Park, traditionally held in January.

LAXFEST

(LACROSSE) Feb.15-16, 2020, Burns Park Soccer Complex This event, one of the few lacrosse tournaments in Arkansas, features teams from six different states.

BURNS PARK

NORTH LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

The recreation gem of Central Arkansas.

overing an expanse of 1,700 acres encompassing woods and riverfront, Burns Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the country. Here almost every outdoor activity imaginable is offered, with soccer, softball and baseball complexes, a tennis center, an archery range, a BMX track and two 18-hole golf courses. Mountain bikers love the intermediate Green Loop trail for its rock gardens and steep climbs to majestic overlooks. The paved and scenic Arkansas River Trail connects Burns Park to the Big Dam Bridge over the river and onward to Two Rivers Park in West Little Rock. Perhaps our favorite feature of Burns Park is that it sits along the Arkansas River, which, thanks to the new Rock Town River Outfitters, you can now kayak at sunset (it offers guided tours and hourly rentals). Access points at Victory Lake attract fishermen and water skiers, too. NORTH LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

THE HALLOWEEN HALF & 5K

Oct., 2020, North Shore Riverwalk Park Start times: 7 a.m. for the half marathon; 9 a.m. for the 5K. more details can be found at thehalloweenhalf.com/little-rock.

BUSCH SOFTBALL CLASSIC

July 2020, Sherwood Sports Complex, Burns Park Softball and Jacksonville Sports Complex 2020 marks the 41st year of this USSSA-sanctioned event. Two hundred teams from 39 different states participate. n VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Hunting for History Scavenger Hunt HERE ARE PHOTOGRAPHS AND DESCRIPTIONS THAT HINT OF FAMOUS HISTORIC PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS IN LITTLE ROCK AND NORTH LITTLE ROCK. TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE AND COMPARE TO THE ANSWERS!

GREEK REVIVAL UNDER YOUR FEET

What is orange, tan and brown and 504 square feet with 1,800 hand-stenciled decorative motifs? Answer: A 19th-century reproduction floorcloth at Curran Hall, the Little Rock Visitor Center.

COVERED IN DIAMONDS

What was designed circa 1981 for Arkansas First Lady Gay Daniels White by Rohn Muse? Answer: An inaugural gown, which can be seen with other inaugural gowns at the Old State House Museum.

4 1

BRIAN CHILSON

IF YOU FIND ME, I’LL HELP YOU SEE, FOR THERE ARE NO EYES BIGGER THAN ME. Hint: Used on the bridges of battleships during WWII. Answer: U.S. Navy binoculars aboard the USS Arkansas, at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum in North Little Rock.

THE “BOY MARTYR OF THE CONFEDERACY.” BRIAN CHILSON

This 17-year-old was executed during the Civil War by the Union Army in Little Rock for working as a spy for the Confederacy. His portrait hangs inside the MacArthur Museum of Military History. Who was he? Answer: David O. Dodd.

Did you know? The Bobby L. Roberts Library of Arkansas History and Art is the state’s largest facility dedicated to the study of Arkansas history and culture and where more than 10 million documents and photographs on Arkansas history are available for public use.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

HISTORIC HOLDALL

Where can you find a 1930s “Accordion Frame Purse” in amber jewel bakelite? Answer: At Esse Purse Museum in SoMa.

BRIAN CHILSON

COVERED IN LIMESTONE

What important building in Little Rock is built with the native stone called “Arkansas Marble”? Answer: The Arkansas State Capitol.

What was a popular watering hole for early Arkansas legislators, travelers, fur trappers, and other grizzly frontiersmen craving “grog”? Answer: The Hinderliter Tavern, at the Historic Arkansas Museum.

ANTEBELLUM OPENER

This reproduction of a late 19th-century water-powered gristmill appeared in “Gone with the Wind.” What’s it called and where can you find it? Answer: The Old Mill, in T.R. Pugh Memorial Park, North Little Rock

BRIAN CHILSON

THE OLDEST BUILDING IN LITTLE ROCK

THE LITTLE ROCK

A French explorer sailing up the Arkansas River in 1722 who’d begun his journey at the Gulf of Mexico noted in his journal the striking rock bluffs on both sides of the river at a point about 700 miles into his travels. He called the smaller bluff “La Petite Roche” and it marked the major river crossing for hundreds of years. What was his name, and where is this rock? Answer: Jean Baptiste Benard de la Harpe. The rock, all that remains of the original bluff, is in Riverfront Park, by the Junction Bridge.

PLAYED BY A PRESIDENT

FAMOUS JAZZ PIANIST

This famous musician and Little Rock native played a regular gig Sunday afternoons at the Diplomatic Club in what used to be Little Rock’s African-American business district. His organ is on permanent display at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center. Who was he? Answer: Art Porter.

Our 42nd president played this instrument throughout his life, including in a high school jazz trio named called the “Three Blind Mice” (the band mates wore dark sunglasses while performing). What is it, who played it and where is it? Answer: The saxophone, Bill Clinton, the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

GOOD EATS

Some of our favorite dining establishments. We think you’ll like them, too.

Dine with us inside the Clinton Presidential Center! Lunch • Happy Hour • Dinner • Sunday Brunch • Catering Make a reservation at 42barandtable.org or (501) 537-0042.

A Unique Collection of International Flavors 1224 Main Street | atlassoma.com Benihana is famous for it’s atmosphere, service, food quality, outstanding chefs and overall dining experience. Located just three blocks from Verizon Arena and next door to Dickey Stephen’s Ballpark. Benihana has established itself as Arkansas’ premiere Japanese Steakhouse

WOOD FIRE OVEN

AMAZING COCKTAILS AND THE BEST VIEWS

IN LITTLE ROCK

Visit us on the roof of the River Market’s

HILTON GARDEN INN

Monday—Thursday 4-11PM | Friday—Saturday, 4PM-12AM (501) 244-0044 | 322 Rock Street in Little Rock

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Open for Lunch

Located in the Mon - Fri 11-2 Wyndham Hotel Sunday 11:30-2:30 #2 Riverfront Place Dinner Monday - Thursday 5p-9:30p North Little Rock Friday - Saturday 5p-10p 501-374-8081 Sunday - 5p-9p Make reservations online at www.Benihana.com

An Arkansas Original

bold burgers fresh salads inspired cocktails local beer bigorangeburger.com

little rock • midtown

little rock • west

the midtowne shopping center

the promenade at chenal

rogers, ar

pinnacle hills promenade

WINGS. BEER. SPORTS.

675 Amity Road, Conway, AR 72032 501-205-1940 14800 Cantrell Rd., Little Rock, AR 72223 501-868-5279 4600 Silvercreek Dr., Sherwood, AR 72120 501-819-0192 BUFFALOWILDWINGS.COM

If you’re looking for a great Little Rock restaurant, look no further than Bridges Restaurant & Lounge located at the DoubleTree by Hilton Little Rock seamlessly connected to the Robinson Center. Bridges menu offers a top selection of authentic and tasty southern-inspired food. Whether you’re in the mood for BBQ or a few fingers of Bourbon, Bridges will satisfy your culinary craving.

424 West Markham Street, Little Rock 501-372-4371 • www.doubletreelr.com

Since 1982, The Butcher Shop has built its powerful reputation by serving the finest hickory charcoaled steaks cut from the highest quality grainfed beef direct from the Midwest. Beef at The Butcher Shop is aged four weeks before being skillfully hand cut by their “in house” butcher. Tremendous steaks, excellent service, fair prices and a comfortable atmosphere make Open for Dinner: M-F 5pm, Sat & Sun 4:30pm The Butcher Shop the West Little Rock at Shackleford & Hermitage Rd. prime choice for your 501-312-2748 • thebutchershoplittlerock.com evening out.

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Campy, funkypand id einteractive, seehc gninniw drawa Dizzy’s is a refreshingly t f a r d no sreeb tfarc 01 engaging blend of unique, ekac gniddew etihw from scratch international and southern comfort foods, cisum evil local beer on tap, world wines, hcnurb yadrutas art and music. taweekdays, s-seut ruoh yppah Open Tues-Sat 11-9 11-10 weekends 200 S. River Market Ave, Ste 150 Little Rock 501-375-3500

Doe’s Eat Place is the go-to for great steaks, buxom burgers and signature homemade tamales and chili. It’s the atmosphere and history of Doe’s that lures visitors from all over the country and locals who fill the nostalgic checkered tables to eat, drink and make a memory or two. 1023 W. Markham St • Little Rock • 501-376-1195 • doeseatplace.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

GOOD EATS Looking for a great Irish pub in Little Rock? Step into Dugan’s Pub. With homemade favorites like Corned Beef & Cabbage, Bangers & Mash and Fish & Chips you can’t go wrong. Not your typical pub food, we also have great sandwiches, burgers & salads. There are plenty of TV’s to catch the game of your choice & live music on the weekends with no cover. There is a covered patio for outdoor dining as well as a private room for your next function.

401 E. Third • Little Rock Located at the corner of 3rd & Rock Streets in the River Market District (501) 244-0542 • www.duganspublr.com “May you always have a clean shirt, a clear conscience, and enough coins in your pocket to buy a pint.”

New Orleans At Its Best! Award winning for over 37 years for authentic New Orleans cuisine. Steaks, seafood and Creole specialties in a casual, fun atmosphere. Rebsamen Park 1619 Rebsamen Park Rd. 501-663-9734 www.thefadedrose.com

craving bright, fresh, cali-mex inspired dishes? keep it local.

STREET-STYLE TACOS | CRAFT MARGARITAS AHI TUNA CEVICHE | FRESH SALADS ICE-COLD BEER | HOUSE-MADE DESSERTS ARTISAN COCKTAILS AND MUCH MORE

Lunch, Dinner, Sunday Brunch 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd., Hillcrest (501) 660-4100 kemurirestaurant.com

MADE HERE. MADE WELL. LOST FORTY BREWING

@LocalLime @LocalLime_Rogers

Rise & Shine Litlle Roc

Join us for Ar kansas' favorit e All-Day Brewho use Beer Brea kfast every S

unday 9am - 9p

ARKANSAS’ AWARD WINNING BREWERY • LOST FORTY IS MADE & SOLD ONLY IN ARKANSAS Located in the East Village • 501 Byrd St. Little Rock, AR • @Lost40Beer • Lost40Brewing.com

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

Arkansas Owned & Operated for 7 years LITTLE ROCK, AR & ROGERS, AR locallimetaco.com | #eatlocaltacos

LocalLimeTaco.com

Since 1967, Murry’s Dinner Playhouse has been serving up food, fun and fabulous live entertainment. For less than the price of dinner and a movie, you can experience the wonderful world of live theater!

501-562-3131 • murrysdp.com

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RIVERDALE 10 VIP CINEMA Little Rock’s favorite local theater screening Hollywood block buster films, as well as Independent, Art, Documentary and Foreign Films found no where else in Arkansas. Serving all your favorite eats and drinks! Live like a local and head to Riverdale 10 VIP Cinema where you will find a large selection of beer and wine; proudly serving all Arkansas brewed craft beers. Riverdale 10 VIP Cinema has a full food menu to enjoy; Nathan’s Hot Dogs, White Castle Sliders, State Fair Corn Dogs, Wings, Handcrafted Pizza, Chicken Strips, Loaded Fries, a desert menu and More! Eat and Drink while you watch your movie in luxury leather electric reclining seats with tables and reserved seating. . Be sure to pick up the Theater Group Free Popcorn Bucket. Riverdale’s super extra-large popcorn buckets include Free Popcorn on Wednesdays and unlimited refills on other days for only $4.25.

Un i q u e , d e l i c i o u s a n dc r e a t i v e f a r e w h i l e p r o v i d i n g t h e b e s t s e r v i c e a n d f u l l s e r v i c e b a r . F e a t u r i n g c r e a t i v e i n n o v a t i o n s o nc l a s s i c c o c k t a i l s w i t h a c o n v i v i a l a t mo s p h e r e . Op e nd a i l y a t 4 p m, c l o s e dS u n d a y • p e t i t a n d k e e t . c o m 1 6 2 0Ma r k e t S t , L i t t l e R o c k , AR7 2 2 1 1• 5 01 3 1 9 7 6 7 5 The Riverfront Steakhouse features USDA Prime steaks and seafood including whole lobster tail. Most customers agree our steaks are the best they’ve ever tasted. The atmosphere is elegant and relaxed and the service is second to none. Open for Dinner Tuesday - Thursday 5p-9:30p Friday and Saturday evenings 5p-10p Online reservations at www.Riverfront-steakhouse.com Located in the Wyndham Hotel #2 Riverfront Place North Little Rock 501-375-7825

2600 Cantrell Road • Riverdale 501-296-9955 www.riverdale10.com

Upscale, downtown! Come taste a premier dining experience at Little Rock’s happening restaurant in the River Market District. Renowned for its steaks and seafood, romantic environment, and extensive wine and scotch list...Sonny Williams Steak Room is definitely no steak to miss. Listen and relax to tunes from the piano bar every Tuesday-Saturday, starting at 7pm. See ya at Sonny’s! Awarded Best Steak by Arkansas Times for 13 years! DINNER Mon-Sat 5pm-close 500 President Clinton Ave In The River Market District 501-324-2999 sonnywilliamssteakroom.com Free Valet • Reservations Recommended

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The Dining Guide AMERICAN

@ THE CORNER Salads, burgers, and other sandwiches. Try the poutine, made with homemade french fries and tasty brown gravy. 201 E. Markham St. No alcohol. CC. $$-$$$. 400-8458. BL Tue.-Fri., BR Sat.-Sun. 42 BAR AND TABLE With a beautiful view of the Arkansas River, this spot, located inside the Clinton Presidential Library, features an internationally-focused menu, as you might expect. 1200 President Clinton Ave. Full bar. CC. $-$$. 537-0042. L Mon.-Sat., BR Sun.; D Thu.-Sat. ALIBI A speakeasy-style pub with a nostalgic nod to Prohibition and a great dessert menu. 300 River Market Ave. Beer and wine. CC. $$-$$$. 916-9317. D Tues.-Sat.

BARK BAR Dine on hot dogs and nibbles with canine companionship; there’s food and drink for your furry friends as well. 1201 S. Spring St. Beer and wine. CC. $-$$. 372-1926. D Tues.-Sun. L Sat.-Sun.

CAPITAL BAR AND GRILL Hearty sandwiches, daily lunch specials, and fine evening dining, all at one of the swankiest bars in Arkansas. 111 Markham St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 3707013. LD daily.

BIG ORANGE-MIDTOWN Hamburgers, shakes, and fries are big draws, but you can get veggie burgers, turkey burgers, chicken sandwiches and creative big salads. 207 N. University Ave. Full bar. CC. $$. 379-8715. LD daily.

CATHEAD’S DINER Breakfast with a biscuit focus, and daily featured meats. 515 Shall Ave. No alcohol. CC. $$-$$$. 801-0843. BL Tues.-Fri.; D Fri; BR Sat.-Sun.

BIG WHISKEY’S AMERICAN BAR AND GRILL A modern grill pub with a big menu of boneless wings, burgers, steaks, soups and salads, plus whiskey on tap. 225 E. Markham St. Full bar. CC. $$. 324-2449. LD daily. BOULEVARD BREAD CO. Fresh bread and pastries, and a wide selection of cheeses and meats to be had. Good coffee, too. 1920 N. Grant. Full bar. CC. $$. 663-5951. BLD Mon.-Sat. BRAVE NEW RESTAURANT Chef/ Owner Peter Brave was doing “farmto-table” before most of us knew the term. His focus is on fresh, high-quality ingredients prepared elegantly but simply. Ordering the fish special is never a bad choice. 2300 Cottondale Lane. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 663-2677. LD Mon.-Fri.; D Sat.

ALLSOPP & CHAPPLE Elegant appetizers, filets, salmon, sea bass, shrimp and trout served alongside gorgeous cocktails. 311 S. Main St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 902-4911. LD Mon.-Fri.; D Sat.

BURGE’S TURKEYS AND HAMS Famous for its smoked turkeys and hams, but also a source for good fried catfish and homemade fried pies. 5620 R St. No alcohol. CC. $-$$. 666-1660. LD Mon.-Sat. BUFFALO WILD WINGS Great wings and all the TVs you could want for watching the big game. 14800 Cantrell Road. Full bar. $$. 868-5279. LD daily.

ARTHUR’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE Dry-aged prime, Australian wagyu, and certified Japanese Kobe beef in an elegant setting. There’s a wide choice of seafood too. 16100 Chenal Pkwy. Full bar. CC. $$$. 821-1838. D Mon.-Sat.

CACHE RESTAURANT Well-presented plates of lobster, steak, chops, and duck in a sleek, fine dining atmosphere, with a slightly more casual lunch of pizza, sandwiches, fish, and the like. 425 President Clinton Ave. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 850-0265. LD Mon.-Fri. D Sat., BR Sun.

Big Orange

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

CHEERS IN THE HEIGHTS Good burgers and sandwiches, vegetarian offerings and salads at lunch, and fish specials and good steaks in the evening. 2010 N. Van Buren St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 663-5937. LD Mon.-Sat. CIAO BACI This casually swank Hillcrest bungalow has a shady deck, a gorgeous bar, and daily fine dining specials. But it’s also open late and has such funky fare as jalapeno tater tots alongside the elegance. 605 N. Beechwood St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 603-0238. D Mon.-Sat. COPPER GRILL Comfort food with a twist; burgers, salads, great desserts, and more sophisticated dinner fare like filet mignon, salmon, and walleye. 300 E. Third St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 375-3333. LD Mon.-Sat. CORKY’S RIBS & BBQ The pulled pork is extremely tender and juicy, while the sauce is sweet and tangy without a hint of heat. Maybe the best dry ribs in the area. 12005 Westhaven Dr. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 9547427. LD daily. DIZZY’S GYPSY BISTRO Interesting bistro fare and award-winning Le Petit Roche cheese dip at this neighborhood favorite. 200 River Market Ave. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 375-3500. LD Tue.-Sat. DOE’S EAT PLACE This funky dive sees its share of suits and ties with its huge steaks, great tamales, broiled shrimp and killer burgers at lunch. 1023 W. Markham St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 376-1195. LD Mon.-Fri.; D Sat. THE FADED ROSE The Cajun-inspired menu

seldom disappoints. Faded’s steaks, the Judge’s cheese dip, and soaked salads are legendary. 1619 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 663-9734. LD daily. FLYING FISH The fried seafood is fresh and crunchy, the gumbo hot, and the boiled shrimp and raw oysters cold. There are plenty of grilled offerings, too. 511 President Clinton Ave. Beer and wine. CC. $$. 3753474. LD daily. FLYING SAUCER A popular hangout for locals thanks to its almost 200 beers (including 75 on tap), but also its soups, salads, pizza, and appetizers. 323 President Clinton Ave. Full bar. CC. $$. 372-8032. LD daily. FLYWAY BREWING A popular brewery that also serves up quality pub food and snacks. 314 Maple St., NLR. Beer. $$. 350-8868. D Mon.-Thu., LD Fri.-Sun. GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN Today’s special? Chicken. Signature hot fried chicken, made from fresh, never-frozen, hormone-free meat. Try the pie or fried pickles, or go for chicken and waffles on Sundays. 300 President Clinton Ave. Beer. CC. $-$$. 372-2211. LD daily. HOMER’S WEST Find big ol’ plate lunches, catfish, desserts and softball-sized yeast rolls at this Midtown spin-off of the East Little Rock standby. 9700 N. Rodney Parham Road. Full bar. CC. $$. 224-6637. BLD Mon.Sat.; BL Sun. KITCHEN EXPRESS Little Rock’s best fried chicken? You decide. Delicious “meat and three” restaurant offering big servings of homemade soul food. 4600 Asher Ave. No alcohol. CC. $-$$. 666-3500. BLD Mon.-Sat.; LD Sun. LASSIS INN One of the state’s oldest restaurants still in the same location -- and one of the best for catfish and buffalo fish ribs. There’s a jukebox, but no dancing. 518 E. 27th St. Beer and wine. CC. $-$$. 372-8714. LD Tue.-Sat. LOCA LUNA Grilled meats, seafood and pasta dishes that never stray far from country roots, whether Italian, Spanish or Arkie; plus “The First White Cheese Dip In America.” 3519 Old Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 663-4666. L Mon.-Fri.; D daily; BR Sat.-Sun. LOST FORTY BREWING Craft brewery restaurant with a Delta influence on its food. 501 Byrd St. Beer and wine. CC. $$. 319-7335. LD Wed.-Sun. BR Sun.

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FIVE-STAR ATTRACTION Once you've visited the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History, you'll vow to return. Housed in Little Rock's third-oldest building - and

----

birthplace of legendary five-star General Douglas MacArthur - the museum is dedicated to honoring Arkansans who served in all conflicts from territorial times to the present day. Even if you're not familiar with military topics, you'll find yourself coming back to learn more. Your orders are clear.

MAcARTHUR

MUSEUM of ARKANSAS MILITARY H !STORY

MacArthur Park • Downtown Little Rock, Arkansas (501) 376-4602 • Free Admission Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Sunday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. www.arkmilitaryheritage.com

OUR WINGS ARE 675 AMITY ROAD, CONWAY, AR 72032 501-205-1940 14800 CANTRELL RD., LITTLE ROCK, AR 72223 501-868-5279 4600 SILVERCREEK DR., SHERWOOD, AR 72120 501-819-0192

BUFFALOWILDWINGS.COM VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

MADDIE’S PLACE Lunch specials, serious desserts, and a menu with a New Orleans flavor — all in a fun, upbeat atmosphere. 1615 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 660-4040. LD Tue-Sat.

Rock, this restaurant serves several cuts of steak, an assortment of sides and other items such as crab cakes, shrimp, chicken and lobster. 2 Riverfront Place, NLR. Full bar. $$$. 375-7825. D Mon.-Sat.

SO RESTAURANT BAR Call it a French brasserie with a sleek, not fussy, American finish. The wine selection is broad and choice. Free valet parking. 3610 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 663-1464. LD Mon.-Sat.; D Sun.

MIDTOWN BILLIARDS Grilling amazing burgers, Spam sandwiches, grilled cheeses, and even Boca burgers late into the night. 1316 S. Main St. Full bar. CC. $$$. 372-9990. D daily.

THE ROOT CAFE Homey, local food-focused café. With tasty burgers, homemade bratwurst, banh mi and a number of vegan and veggie options. Breakfast and Sunday brunch, too. 1500 S. Main St. No alcohol. CC. $$$. 414-0423. BL Tue.Sat.; BR Sun.

SONNY WILLIAMS’ STEAK ROOM Top-ofthe-line steaks, chops, and seafood, plus decadent desserts, and a fish of the day at this fine dining spot. 500 President Clinton Ave. Full bar. CC. $$$-$$$$. 324-2999. D Mon.-Sat.

SAMANTHA’S TAP ROOM AND WOOD GRILL Creative appetizers, big salads, tacos; entrées include chops, filets, quail breast and shrimp. Lots of beer and wine on tap. 322 S. Main St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 379-8019. LD Mon.-Sat.

SOUL FISH CAFE Memphis-based seafood chain offers Southern favorites such as fried catfish and fresh vegetables, along with tacos, po’ boys, salads and more, plus a kids’ menu. 306 S. Main St. Beer and wine. CC. $-$$. 396-9175. LD Mon.-Sun.

MUGS CAFE This Argenta neighborhood hangout and coffee bar is open for breakfast and lunch: Delicious sandwiches, specials, all-day breakfast foods and $5 all-you-can-eat pancakes are common on Saturday mornings. 515 Main St., NLR. Beer and wine. $$. 379-9101. BLD Mon.-Sat. BL Sun. NORTH BAR Park Hill’s neighborhood bar delivers an exciting menu of creative burgers, salads, sandwiches and more, along with a full bar serving up an eclectic collection of local and regional beer, wine and cocktails. 3812 J.F.K. Blvd., NLR. Full bar. $$. 420-1117. LD Tues.-Sat.

STICKYZ ROCK ’N’ ROLL CHICKEN SHACK Fingers any way you can imagine, plus cheese dip, sandwiches, and burgers. Also a fun setting for music or happy hour. 107 River Market Ave. Full bar. CC. $-$$. 372-7707. LD daily. TABLE 28 Excellent fine dining with lots of creative flourishes. Branch out and try the crispy squid filet and quail bird lollipops. 1501 Merrill Dr. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 224-2828. D Mon.-Sat.

THE RAIL YARD Dog-friendly Lassis Inn Hangar Hill-area food truck court that also serves as permanent home to Count Porkula BBQ. 1212 E. Sixth St. Beer and wine. CC. $-$$$. 372-9273. LD Tues.-Sun. REBEL KETTLE BREWING CO. Tasty Cajuninspired bar food at this Hangar Hill craft brewery. 822 E. Sixth St. Beer and wine. CC. $-$$. 374-2791. LD daily. RED DOOR Fresh seafood, steaks, chops, pastas, burgers, and sandwiches served with deliciously detailed cocktails. 3701 Old Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 666-8482. L Mon.-Sat.; D daily; BR Sat.-Sun. RENO’S ARGENTA CAFE A tasty variety of appetizers, sandwiches, wraps and specialty pizzas. Daily drink and food specials. 312 Main St., NLR. Full bar. $$. 376-2900. LD Mon.-Sat. RIVERFRONT STEAKHOUSE Located inside the Wyndham Riverfront in North Little

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

BRIAN CHILSON

ONE ELEVEN AT THE CAPITAL Inventive fine dining restaurant helmed by Joel Antunes, a James Beard award-winning chef. 111 W. Markham St. Full bar. CC. $$$. 370-7011. BD daily; L Mon.-Fri.

SIMS BAR-B-QUE A Little Rock classic with great spare ribs, sandwiches, beef, half and whole chicken and a unique vinegarmustard-brown sugar sauce. 1307 John Barrow Road. Beer. CC. $-$$. 224-2057. LD Mon.-Sat. SKINNY J’S There is something for everyone on the mind-blowingly large menu — 17 appetizers and 15 burger choices. 314 Main St., NLR. Full bar. $$. 916-2645. LD Mon.-Fri., BLD Sat.-Sun.

Did you know? Sims Bar-B-Que is Little Rock’s oldest black-owned restaurant.

TOWN PUMP A fun and deep menu with savory burgers, good wings, great fries, cheese dip and plate lunches with karaoke and shuffleboard. 1321 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar. CC. $-$$. 663-9802. LD daily.

TRIO’S Fresh, creative and satisfying menu with a notable brunch. Best array of fresh desserts in town. 8201 Cantrell Road, Ste. 100. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 221-3330. LD Mon.-Sat.; BR Sun. TWO SISTERS CAFE Delicious sandwiches, wraps and salads. 3140 E. Kiehl Ave., Sherwood. No alcohol. $$. 819-0189. BLD Tues.-Sat. WHOLE HOG CAFE The pulled pork shoulder is a classic, the back ribs are worthy of their many blue ribbons and there’s a six-pack of sauces for every taste. A real find is the beef brisket, cooked the way Texans like it. Beer and wine. $$. 12111 W. Markham St., 501-907-6124; 2516 Cantrell Road, 501-6645025; 5107 Warden Road, NLR, 501-753-9227.

ASIAN

AJI RAMEN BAR Choose your own ramen or rice bowl adventure here, with a surprising

(and surprisingly good) take on homemade crème brulee. 301 N. Shackleford Road. Wine, beer, sake. CC. $$. 414-8433. LD Mon.-Sat. A.W. LIN’S ASIAN CUISINE Excellent panAsian fare with wonderful service. 17717 Chenal Pkwy Ste. H101. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 821-5398. LD daily. FANTASTIC CHINA The food is delicious, the presentation beautiful, the menu distinctive, the service perfect, the decor bright. 1900 N. Grant St. Full bar. CC. $$. 663-8999. LD daily. K BIRD Thai salads, stir-fry, and curries with great choices like fermented pork in a cozy residential setting. 600 N. Tyler St. No alcohol. CC. $. 352-3549. LD Mon.-Fri.

served up fast. 323 Center St. No alcohol. CC. $ 374-2633. L Mon.-Fri.

12800 Chenal Pkwy. Beer and wine. CC. $$. 225-1829. LD daily.

ATLAS BAR There’s an international flair to the menu befitting the world-travel bar theme — Indonesian fried rice, Hawaiian crab cake sandwiches, labneh, hummus — and the kitchen is open fairly late. 1224 S. Main St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 712-4713. LD daily.

YA YA’S EURO BISTRO Translating comfort food into beautiful cuisine, it’s great for date night, or for lunch, with soup, salads, and sandwiches. 17711 Chenal Pkwy. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 821-1144. LD daily; BR Sun.

FASSLER HALL German-style beer hall with sausages, big pretzels, schnitzel, and the like; try the duck fat fries. 311 E. Capitol Ave. Beer and Wine. CC. $$. 246-4757. LD daily; BR Sat.-Sun. LAYLA’S GYROS AND PIZZERIA Delicious Mediterranean fare — gyros, falafel, shawarma, kabobs, hummus and baba ganoush — that

KEMURI Upscale Japanese with entrees grilled on robatas (charcoal grills), other Asian dishes, a sushi bar, plus American favorites given a Pan-Asian twist. You’ve never had baby back ribs likes these, baby. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 660-4100. L Mon.Fri.; D daily.

ITALIAN

BRUNO’S LITTLE ITALY Traditional Italian spaghetti, pasta, pizza, appetizers, entrees and desserts. Extensive, delicious menu from family-owned Little Rock stalwart. 310 S. Main St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 372-7866. D Tue.-Sat. DAMGOODE PIES A different take on pizza, with three different crusts, and spicy white, pink, pesto, and Alfredo sauces offered in addition to the traditional red. Good salads and sandwiches, too. 6706 Cantrell Road. Beer and wine. CC. $$-$$$. 664-2239. LD daily. GRAFFITI’S The casually chic and ever-popular Italian-flavored Little Rock legend avoids the rut with daily specials and careful menu tinkering. 7811 Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 224-9079. D Mon.-Sat.

BRIAN CHILSON

MIKE’S CAFE A local favorite, Mike’s is the kind of hidden gem that doesn’t stay hidden for long. Their takes on Chinese and Vietnamese staples are classic. 5501 Asher Ave. Beer. Some CC. $-$$. 562-1515. LD daily.

HIDEAWAY PIZZA A lively atmosphere with thick, hearty pizzas, salads and more. 5103 Warden Road, NLR. Full bar. $$. 270-7777. LD daily.

Hideaway Pizza MT. FUJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT The dean of Little Rock sushi bars adds in pizza to the menu without missing offers a fabulous lunch special and great a step. 9501 N. Rodney Parham Road. No Monday night deals. 10301 Rodney Parham alcohol. CC. $-$$. 227-7272. LD daily (closes Road. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 227-6498. L at 5 p.m. Sun.). Mon.-Sat.; D daily.

IRIANA’S PIZZA Generous handtossed, New York-style pizza with unmatched zest. The grinders are great, particularly the Italian sausage; and good salads, too. 201 E. Markham St. Beer and wine. CC. $-$$. 374-3656. LD Mon.-Sat.

PHO THANH MY Vietnamese food, noodles, and pho with great vegetarian options. 302 N. Shackleford Road. No alcohol. CC. $$. 312-7498. LD daily.

THE PANTRY CREST Czech and German comfort food with a great bar menu and handy late hours. 722 N. Palm St. Full bar. CC. $$. 725-4945. D Mon.-Sat.

OLD CHICAGO PASTA & PIZZA This national chain offers lots of pizzas, pastas and beer. 4305 Warden Road, NLR. Beer. $$. 812-6262. LD daily.

SUSHI CAFE Impressive, upscale sushi menu with other delectable house specialties like tuna tataki, fried soft-shell crab, and even grilled burgers and steak. 5823 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 663-9888. L Mon.-Sat.; D daily.

STAR OF INDIA A unique buffet at lunch and some fabulous dishes at night (spicy curried dishes, tandoori chicken, lamb and veal, vegetarian). 301 N. Shackleford Road. Beer and wine. CC. $$. 227-9900. LD daily.

THREE FOLD NOODLES + DUMPLING CO. Delicious and authentic downtown dumplings, noodles, salads and steamed buns. 101 S. Main St. Beer & wine. CC. $$-$$$. 372-1739. LD Mon.-Sat.

TAJ MAHAL INDIAN KITCHEN Upscale and often spicy versions of traditional Indian dishes with an extensive menu and a weekend brunch buffet. 1520 Market St. Beer. CC. $$$. 881-4796. LD daily.

PIZZA CAFE With unique sandwiches and salads, and thin, crunchy pizza, this venerable café is thick with cool atmosphere. The PC’s frosty draft beer is appealing indoors or on the deck. Or get a take ‘n’ bake pizza to cook at home and feel like you were there. 1517 Rebsamen Park Road. Beer and wine. CC. $-$$. 664-6133. LD daily.

EUROPEAN/OTHER ETHNIC

TAZIKI’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE Fast casual chain that offers gyros, grilled meats and veggies, hummus and pimento cheese.

ARBELA Middle Eastern grill Gyros, hummus, tabbouleh, gyros, falafel, and chicken dishes

THE PIZZERIA This onetime food truck now has a great, if somewhat ironic, home in a former gym. Specialties from the bar complement wood-fired pizza choices with fresh ingredients. Game room in back. 4910 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC. $-$$. 551-1388. D Mon.-Sun.; Sat.-Sun. BR. VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

RADUNO BRICK OVEN & BARROOM Neapolitan-style pizza joint with a thoughtful beer and cocktail menu featuring great salads, sandwiches and a pistachio cheesecake. 1318 S. Main St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 374-7476. LD Tue.-Sat.; L Sun. RISTORANTE CAPEO Authentic Italian cooking is the draw at this cozy, brick-walled restaurant. Familiar pasta dishes will comfort most diners, but let the chef delight you with some more exotic stuff. 425 Main St., NLR. Full bar. $$$-$$$$. 376-3463. D Mon.-Sat. SAUCE(d) BAR AND OVEN Wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza, salads, sandwiches, and burgers. 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road. Full bar. CC. $-$$. 353-1534. LD daily. VINO’S BREWPUB The city’s original microbrewery has pizza, salads, and calzones of note. Its fabled back room hosts live music, theatre, and other weirdness. 923 W. Seventh St. Beer and wine. CC. $-$$. 3758466. LD daily.

tic Mexican food. Try the Al Pastor burrito. 9501 N. Rodney Parham Road. Beer. CC. $-$$. 312-0045. BLD Tue.-Sun. THE FOLD BOTANAS AND BAR Gourmet tacos and botanas, cheese dip (add bison!) and nachos. Try the cholula pescada taco. 3501 Old Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 916-9706. LD Tue.-Sun. HEIGHTS TACO & TAMALE Throwback Southern-style tamales, taco plates, enchiladas and more, all doused with a generous helping of cheese and chili. Hits just the right balance between nostalgia and fresh flavors. 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC. $-$$. 313-4848. LD daily. LA HACIENDA Creative, fresh-tasting entrees and traditional favorites in a festive atmo-

SPECIALTY

BLUE SAIL COFFEE With locally-roasted beans, this sleek café located inside the Little Rock Technology Park has a fullservice coffee/espresso menu. 417 S. Main St. No alcohol. CC. $$-$$$. 375-8466. BLD Mon.-Sat.; LD Sun. COMMUNITY BAKERY This storied, oftenpacked downtown bakery is the place to linger over a latte and a muffin for breakfast, or to dash in at lunchtime for a sandwich and subsequent stroll on Main Street. 1200 S. Main St. No alcohol. CC. $$$. 375-7105. BLD daily. HONEY PIES Fresh-baked pies like chocolate peanut butter pie and peach pie, plus cookies, brownies, sandwiches, salads, and a soup of the day. 315 N Bowman Road. #14. No alcohol. CC. $-$$. 613-7950. BLD daily. HURTS DONUT All the excessive donut flavors you can imagine — Oreo cheesecake, blueberry struesel, Fruity Pebbles — alongside huge cinnamon rolls and maple bacon bars, served all day and all night long. 107 E. Markham St. No alcohol. CC. $$. 916-9201. BLD daily.

ZAZA FINE SALAD & WOOD OVEN PIZZA CO. There’s wood-oven pizza with gorgeous blistered crusts, but the tempting call-your-own ingredient salads hold their own against any pie. Plus great gelato in a multitude of flavors. 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer and wine. CC. $$-$$$. 661-9292. LD daily.

BAJA GRILL Taco joint serving a unique Mexicali style menu with soups, salads, tacos, burritos and quesadillas. 5923 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC. $-$$. 722-8920. LD Mon.-Sat.; BR Sat.

BRIAN CHILSON

M E X I C A N / L AT I N AMERICAN

La Terraza Rum & Lounge

DOS ROCAS BEER & TACOS Neighborhood taco bar featuring locally-sourced meats and produce with Honduran and Paraguayan overtones — and more than a dozen taps of Arkansas beers and specialty cocktails. 1220 S. Main St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 3135413 LD Tues.-Sat. ELIELLA RISTORANTE Delicious authentic Mexican cuisine. The skirt steak house special and tacos stand out. 7700 Baseline Road., Ste. 800. Full bar. CC. $-$$. 539-5355. LD daily. EL MEZCAL MEXICAN BAR & GRILL Enchiladas, burritos, seafood — and especialidades like T-bone steak — all served up in a storied Hillcrest restaurant spot that’s also perfect for people-watching. 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC. $$. 747-1414. LD daily. TAQUERIA EL PALENQUE Excellent authen-

VISITORS GUIDE • 2020

sphere. Great tacos salads, nachos, fajitas and cheese dip. 3024 Cantrell Road. Full bar. CC. $-$$. 661-0600. LD daily. LA REGIONAL A grocery store catering to Southwest Little Rock’s Latino community with a delicious, full-service restaurant in the back. 7414 Baseline Road. No alcohol. CC. $. 569-9394. BLD daily. LA TERRAZA RUM & LOUNGE Delicious Venezuelan fare. The arepas, plantains, and mojitos are especially good. 3000 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 251-8261. LD Tue.-Sat., L Sun. TAQUERIA KARINA AND CAFE This neighborhood cantina has freshly-baked pan dulce, first-rate guacamole, inexpensive tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and a broad selection of Mexican-style seafood. 5309 W. 65th St. Beer. No CC. $. 562-3951. BLD daily.

LE POPS GOURMET ICE LOLLIES Frozen popsicles with tasty flavors. 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd. No alcohol. CC. $$. 313-9558. LD Tues.-Sun.

LOBLOLLY CREAMERY Enjoy artisan ice cream, hand-crafted beverages, and seasonal confections using local ingredients. 1423 S. Main St. No alcohol. CC. $$-$$$. 503-5164. LD daily. THE METEOR CAFE A bright place adjoining the Spokes bicycle shop with coffee, teas, and pastries, including cookies, muffins, scones and a gluten-free, low-sugar housemade bar of oats, fruit and chocolate. 1001 Kavanaugh Blvd. No alcohol. CC. $-$$. 664-7760. BLD daily. NEXUS COFFEE & CREATIVE Cold drinks and tea, coffees, bagels and sandwiches. 301B President Clinton Ave. No alcohol. CC. $$ 295-7515. BLD daily. ZETEO COFFEE Specialty coffee place to grab a breakfast croissant sandwich, or try a Panini or salad for lunch. An array of sweets includes scones and local Loblolly ice cream. 610 President Clinton Ave. No alcohol. CC. $-$$. 386-3227. BL Mon.-Sat. n

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