Visitors and Newcomers Guide to Central Arkansas 2014 by Arkansas Times

Visitors Newcomers THE

AND

GUIDE TO CENTRAL ARKANSAS 2024

DISCOVER WHERE THE LOCALS EAT, SHOP AND PLAY VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

TAKE A STROLL DOWN HISTORIC BATHHOUSE ROW, EXPLORE OVER 25 MILES OF HIKING TRAILS, AND SOAK UP NATURAL SIGHTS LIKE THIS ONE AT GULPHA GORGE CAMPGROUND IN HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK, ARKANSAS.

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West Little Rock Culinary Jewel Rich in History & Newly Renovated Farm to Table Dining Made-from-scratch Creations Freshest Arkansas Ingredients

FINEST FOOD & DINING Making delicious premium food since 2007

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Whether you’re looking for a casual dinner, a gourmet experienceor the perfect business lunch, Copper Grill is the choice urban restaurant for Little Rock’s food enthusiasts.

Open Mon–Sat 11am–10pm Closed Sunday 300 E Third, Little Rock (Corner of Third & Cumberland; half a block from the Historic Arkansas Museum)

(501) 375-3333 info@coppergrilllr.com coppergrilllr.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

CONTENTS

Visitors Newcomers THE

AND

GUIDE TO CENTRAL ARKANSAS 2024

6 WELCOME

From the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau

8 WELCOME

From North Little Rock Tourism

10 FLOATING THE BUFFALO 12 EXPLORE HOT SPRINGS 16 HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOODS 16 Downtown/SOMA Hot Spots

24 Midtown, Heights and Heights 30 Riverdale and the Arkansas River Trail 34 West Little Rock 40 Argenta

41 FINE LOCAL SHOPS 43 LOCAL CULTURE 47 PERFORMANCE! 52 LET’S HAVE A DRINK 54 THE DINING GUIDE 58 GOOD EATS

DISCOVER WHERE THE LOCALS EAT, SHOP AND PLAY VISITORS GUIDE • 2023

BROOKE WALLACE Publisher WERNER TRIESCHMANN Editor MIKE SPAIN Art Director LESA THOMAS Senior Account Executive LUIS GARCIAROSSI SOMMER THROGMORTON Account Executives WELDON WILSON Production Manager/Controller ROLAND R. GLADDEN Advertising Traffic Manager MANDY KEENER SARAH HOLDERFIELD Advertising Designers DONAVAN SUITT Director of Events ROBERT CURFMAN IT Director

ON THE COVER The Arkansas State Capitol and Downtown Little Rock ©DAVID - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

CHARLOTTE KEY Accounting JACKSON GLADDEN Circulation Director PUBLISHED BY

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From the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau

n behalf of the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau, I welcome you to Little Rock! As Arkansas’s capital city, Little Rock is a dynamic and diverse place teeming with world-class dining, arts, hotels, shopping and attractions. It’s a city where intrepid explorers, civil rights pioneers and even world leaders have left their mark. A lot has happened in Little Rock since the first Europeans set foot here in 1722, and that history is on display at museums across the city. Visits to the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum and the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site shine a light on the city’s more recent role in the ongoing fight for civil rights. While you’re here, take the time to experience the city’s booming foodie scene, where

fine dining rubs elbows with award-winning Southern staples. Cut loose in the River Market District, our nightlife hub; explore the murals, sculptures and other public art sprinkled across town; or make memories that will last a lifetime at the numerous annual festivals and events that dot the calendar. For those seeking a cultural experience, Little Rock's arts scene is thriving, and a highlight not to be missed is the newly renovated Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. This acclaimed institution boasts an impressive collection of artworks spanning various periods and styles, showcasing both local and international talent. With its state-ofthe-art facilities and captivating exhibitions, the museum offers a rich and immersive artistic journey for visitors of all backgrounds and interests.

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

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If you feel the call of nature, it’s easy to answer it here. Little Rock has more than 1,200 miles of cycling trails to explore. You can also hike to the top of Pinnacle Mountain or explore the Arkansas River from a rented kayak. Little Rock is known for its charm and hospitality, sincere service, genuine people, and engaging experiences. Welcoming folks is just what we do. I feel confident that after you experience the pleasant surprise of our city, you too will find yourself Big on Little Rock! Enjoy your stay. Gina Gemberling CDME President & CEO Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau

Welcome to Little Rock!

ONE Visit AND YOU’LL BE

BIG ON LITTLE ROCK.

LITTLE ROCK ZOO VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

From North Little Rock Tourism

he city of North Little Rock, Arkansas, is always up to something inspiring! Nightlife, art and outdoors collide here. We make it easy to find what you need: visit our website www.northlittlerock.org, download our free travel app (Explore North Little Rock!) and follow us on social (@exploreNLR) for upcoming events, nearby dining, insiders’ tips and recommendations. In the Argenta Arts District - our downtown Main Street area – you’ll find local restaurants and breweries, theaters, shops and galleries. Hop on a vintage-style yellow streetcar, enjoy libations and live music, and relax at Argenta Plaza. Throughout downtown, you’ll see new murals by local artists popping up, including one with dogs proclaiming “Dogtown Proud” (it’s a long story, but we’re happy to tell it). North Little Rock is much bigger than our downtown, including the up-and-coming neighborhood of Park Hill; authentic Mexican and South American taquerias in our Levy neighborhood and breathtaking views of the Arkansas River from the Emerald Park cliffs.

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Other must-sees in our beautiful city include: • Activities for all. During the summer, enjoy the favorite American pastime of baseball with minor league baseball team Arkansas Travelers at Dickey-Stephens Park. Take family photos at the gorgeous Old Mill (free and open daily!) or visit the St. Joseph Farm Stand on Saturdays to shop, meet the animals and learn about sustainable farming. • Unlimited ways to explore. 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 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. If you’re a cycling enthusiast, check out our brand new Big Rock Quarry Bike Park. • 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, USS Razorback. Everything you want to know about North Little Rock’s colorful past can be found at the North Little Rock Heritage Center. We hope you enjoy your visit to the city of North Little Rock! Stop by the North Little Rock Welcome Center at 600 Main Street in North Little Rock to shop or learn more about the area. Karen Trevino, TMP, CCTP President & CEO

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

Welcome!

! g n i s i r p r u s Looking for something fun to do? We got you. The city of North Little Rock is always up to something: outdoor adventure; chef-driven restaurants, live entertainment and fun year-round attractions like the beautiful Old Mill and touring a real World War II submarine at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum. Come see what we’re up to!

NorthLittleRock.org @exploreNLR #exploreNLR

The Old Mill, Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, concerts at Argenta Plaza, Kaluas Snack Bar VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

THE GREAT ESCAPE OF

FLOATING THE BUFFALO Y

ou can count on every state having its share of natural wonders. Arkansas is no exception. The state has the dazzling Blanchard Springs Caverns, the Crater of Diamonds in Murfreesboro and the thermal waters of Hot Springs, to name a few. However, in terms of utility and bringing pleasure to the most people, it would

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be hard to identify something that would top the Buffalo River. How important is the Buffalo River? It is one of the few remaining free-flowing rivers in the lower 48 states. In 1972, it became the first national river in the United States. The Buffalo River begins in the Boston Mountains. Flowing generally from west to

east, the river crosses into and out of Newton, Searcy and Marion counties before flowing into the White River just inside Baxter County. The river is 150 miles long with the National Park Service overseeing 135 of those miles. The National Park Service rates the Buffalo National River as a Class I/II river, which means the river is suitable for most any paddling skill

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

(Clockwise from left) Seasoned pros and vacationing families will find that camping and floating options are plentiful on Arkansas’s scenic Buffalo River.

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

level. You can float the river by canoe, kayak, raft and, yes, even an inner tube. Float trips can take half a day or multiple days depending on the kind of experience you want to have. Driving from Central Arkansas, a floater can drive in 2-3 hours at the very most to a spot to put in the river. Buffalo Outdoor Center in Ponca offers hiking, zip line rides and mountain biking adventures besides Buffalo River floating trips. St. Joe’s Silver Hill Float Service authors several one-day float trips. The Buffalo River Outfitters has six family cabins to rent and stay in during your float trip. Assuming the water level is right, the Buffalo can be a transportation device to take the floater back to a simpler time. As far as wilderness attractions go, there is little to argue against at least trying the Buffalo River. n VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

EXPLORE HOT SPRINGS N

obody works harder to earn the moniker of “tourist town” than Hot Springs. Gamblers and horse race lovers flock to Oaklawn Park — once a seasonal operation with just the runnin’ ponies, now the full-fledged Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. Lake Hamilton pulls in those who want to boat whenever possible or a place to live by the water. Lake Ouachita, an Army Corp of Engineers Lake, doesn’t allow houses to be built around it but that hasn’t stopped any swimming, boating and playing there. Speaking of playing-- if you want a nice bike ride, Northwood Trails has you covered! Downtown is where the Spa City shows off its National Park designation with bubblin’ thermal waters and history with renovated and update Bathhouse Row.

Science for all ages at The Mid-America Science Museum.

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ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

Enjoy a lush an tranquil stroll through Garvan Woodland Gardens.

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort's live horse racing season lasts a few months, roughly starting in December and going until May of each year. The Arkansas Derby is the track's biggest race and it is your chance to see a potential Kentucky Derby winner barrel down the track. Oaklawns casino is open 24/7 and besides all the regular casino games like roulette, blackjack, etc., there is a Sportsbook where you can place a bet on a dizzying number of outcomes of baseball, football, tennis, basketball and more games. Good luck! Want to get out and be active in nature? Northwoods Trails offers up 31+ miles of World-Class mountain biking trails just 5 miles from downtown Hot Springs! Looking for a more sedate activity, you can count on Garvan Woodland Gardens to deliver. The botanical garden for the University of Arkansas sits on the shoreline of Lake Hamilton and has 5 miles of trails that take visitors through the 210-acre peninsula. The Gardens features 128 species of ornamental and native shrubs and wildflowers, 160 different types of azaleas, a 4-acre Asian garden with a 12-foot waterfall. A Hot Springs destination for decades, The Mid-America Science Museum is loaded with hands-on activities and exhibits to captivate the curious whether young or old. Permanent exhibits include the Light Bridge, which crosses an outdoor stream and uses natural light to examine prisms, filters and color. Bootlegging involves some science (in making liquor) and some gangsterism (in avoiding capture by police). You can find out more about both and about the history of notorious criminals in Hot Springs at The Gangster Museum.

Superior Bathhouse Brewery Distillery also has treats for the kids, too.

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

SEE AND DO

Take a cycling adventure on Hot Springs’s Northwoods Trail. VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

EAT AND DRINK

Old school Hot Springers would tell you, you can’t get the full experience in their town without stopping to have some ribs or a tamale at McClard’s Bar-B-Que. McClard’s has been on the scene since 1928. If you want more dining from established spots, Stubby’s BBQ, in the barbeque game since the 1950s, will fill you with half a chicken or pork sandwich at the location across from Oaklawn. Another vet presence standing in the shadow of Oaklawn is Rocky’s Corner, where you need a big serving spatula to plate up a slice of Rocky’s Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. The buzz you hear when you enter Hot Springs is for DeLuca’s Pizzaria, a brick-oven pizza joint downtown on Central Avenue. Beloved internet influencers have flown in and declared DeLuca’s delightful. Another downtown institution, The Ohio Club lays claim to being Arkansas’s oldest bar. Have a drink and listen to live music Thursday through Sunday nights. n

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BRIAN CHILSON

Step into history with a drink at Arkansas’s oldest bar, The Ohio Club (right). Deluca's Buffalo Mozzarella (below left) is simple, but one of the best! McClard's Tamale Spread is not to be missed (below right).

making memories since 1958.

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BEST RESORT

Ad paid for using a combination of state and Ozark Mountain Region funds. VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

DOWNTOWN/SOMA HOT SPOTS I

f you could travel back in time about 30 years ago, downtown Little Rock would be unrecognizable from the lively place it is today. When national reporters traveled to Arkansas to report on Bill Clinton, the young governor from Arkansas running for president, a few couldn’t help but take shots at the stark nature of downtown Little Rock. Today, downtown is brimming with bustling restaurants, shops and museums for the history, science and art lover, young and old.

SEE & DO

The current darling of downtown is the remade and renamed Arkansas Arts Center — now the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. The eye-popping $155 million renovation by Studio Gang, a Chicago architectural firm, brings the AMFA into the cultural spotlight for not only the city, but the state, and one could even say country.

(Above) The newly renovated Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts is not to be missed by any fine art aficionado. Next door is the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History, housed in the birthplace of Gen. Douglas MacArthur (opposite page).

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COURTESY MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY

The Museum of Discovery hosts several fascinating interactive exhibits.

Museum has a full-service restaurant, 42 Bar and Table, serving lunch and dinner. The Museum of Discovery moved to its River Market location in 1988 and its presence has brightened downtown ever since. The mission statement for the museum is to “fuel a passion for science, technology, engineering, arts and math.” The result is a host of fascinating interactive exhibits, like Tornado Ally Theatre, a 7-minute recreation of the tornado that devastated the Governor’s Mansion district in downtown Little Rock in 1999. How about a museum dedicated to celebrating a common object you may not think twice about. One of only two purse museums in the world, Esse Purse Museum & Store came about thanks to owner Anita

Davis. Temporary and permanent exhibits at Esse tell the story not only of the purse but also of the purse creators and purse holders. Back over at MacArthur Park next door to the Museum of Fine Arts is The MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History. Occupying the Arsenal Building — one of Central Arkansas’s oldest surviving structures and birthplace of Gen. Douglas MacArthur, the MacArthur Museum provides a window to the state’s military past from its territorial period to the present. Dedicated to telling the story of the African American experience in Arkansas, the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center impresses with 35,000 square feet of space filled with exhibits, classrooms and an auditorium seating 400 people. Continued on page 20

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

The Museum’s new look turns the 133,000-square-foot space into a wondrous place to see the museum’s stunning collection and gaze at a Monet, a Pissarro or a Diego Rivera or stroll through a contemporary art exhibit put together by a museum curator. The visual art spaces are only a small part of what the AMFA’s patrons can expect — a Concert Series with a variety of musical acts, the Children’s Theatre, the Park Grill restaurant and the Museum Store add to list of reasons to check out the AMFA. For longtime residents of Little Rock, it is all too easy to forget the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum is an attraction people travel thousands of miles to see. The museum includes replicas of the Oval Office and the Cabinet Room. Permanent exhibits that highlight Clinton’s domestic and foreign policy share space with temporary exhibits such as the recent one about dinosaurs. Like the AMFA, the Clinton

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

EXPERIENCE ARKANSAS IN COMFORT, IN EVERY CORNER OF ARKANSAS.

With properties around the state, you’re never too far from a comfortable night’s stay. At Beechwood Pinnacle Hotels, our welcoming rooms and suites are the perfect place to rest after experiencing everything the area has to offer.

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DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK 811 E. 4th Street Little Rock, AR 72202

FAYETTEVILLE 1577 W 15th St. Fayetteville, AR 72701

BRYANT-BENTON AREA 7224 Alcoa Road Bryant, AR 72015

HOT SPRINGS 200 Marriott Court Hot Springs, AR 71913

FAYETTEVILLE 728 Millsap Rd. Fayetteville, AR 72703

JONESBORO 4911 E Johnson Ave Jonesboro, AR 72401 FAYETTEVILLE 720 Millsap Rd. Fayetteville, AR 72703

DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK 322 Rock Street Little Rock, AR 72202 JONESBORO 2840 S Caraway Rd. Jonesboro, AR 72401

EL DORADO 210 S Washington Ave El Dorado, AR 71730

LITTLE ROCK 11320 Bass Pro Parkway Little Rock AR 72209

FAYETTEVILLE 1234 Steamboat Dr. Fayetteville, AR 72704

BENTONVILLE 301 SE Walton Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72712

BENTONVILLE/ROGERS 215 SE Walton Blvd Bentonville, AR 72712

CONWAY 2400 Sanders Road Conway, AR 72032

ARKADELPHIA 258 Red Hill Rd Arkadelphia, AR 71923 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

DOWNTOWN/SOMA Continued from page 17

EAT AND DRINK

The development of downtown’s South Main Street district — SOMA — offers numerous reasons to cheer, not the least of which is providing diners with exciting choices. Start with The Root Cafe, practically a veteran of the area, which aims, according to its mission, to “build community through local food.” The atmosphere is casual and convivial, and out-of-this-world burgers sit next to Spicy Bahn Mi on the menu. Hot tip: Order The Root Cafe’s sweet potato fries and thank us later. For another vendor making fans at a blistering pace, Lobolly Creamery Scoop Shop is artesian, small-batch ice cream with transporting flavors such as

Honey Lavender. Bonus info: Lobolly makes macarons and will deliver its ice cream to customers in Little Rock. Staying in the SOMA environs, Raduno Brick Oven and Barroom makes a convincing argument that Little Rock’s saturated pizza market still has room for newcomers. The sophistication of Raduno’s approach is evident in their made-from-scratch pastas, such as the veggie lasagna and the chicken parm. Good to know: Raduno has 20 beers on tap. Before leaving SOMA, we can stop by Community Bakery, a longtime occupant with a comfortable cafe space. Grab a cup of coffee, a pastry and plug into Community Bakery’s free Wi-Fi. Scroll through the internet

BRIAN CHILSON

A long time favorite of Arkansas politicos, Doe’s Eat Place serves some of the areas finest tamales and chili.

LIAM MICHAELS

Copper Grill’s award-winning signature Sweet Hot Burger — enjoy it indoors or outside on their patio.

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and watch time fly by. Staying on Main Street but on the other side of the bridge crossing interstate 630, Samantha’s Tap Room & Wood Grill has been a hit from the day it opened. Claiming to be the only Arkansas restaurant with all 32 beers and 20 wines on tap, Samantha’s long bar never seems to want for a customer. Food-wise, you can go downscale with a burger and cheese dip or you can go upscale with wood grilled lamb chops or salmon. To stay with an upscale experience, Allsopp & Chapple serves eclectic New American cuisine by Chef James Hale. In the same area, Bruno’s Little Italy has been a mainstay in Little Rock for decades, even as it

has only been in its Main Street home since 2013. Chianti and a plate of pasta? Yes, please. Copper Grill is a staple downtown for lunch and dinner. Enjoy great lunch specials like this amazing award-winning signature sweet hot burger, or go for dinner to enjoy prime rib, steaks and a wonderful wine list! If you like dining at Al Fresco, you will love it here. Fassler Hall sits a couple of blocks off Main Street but there is not another place in Little Rock where you can get German cuisine and bowl in the same place. Bratwursts, potato pancakes and pork rinds with French onion dip are there for you at Fassler while trying to pick up a 7-10 split.

BRIAN CHILSON

Enjoy elegant dining at Cache Restaurant in Little Rock’s River Market District.

COURTEST BRUNO’S

Once featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” Bruno’s Little Italy creates some of the best Italian cuisine we’re aware of.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

DOWNTOWN/SOMA SHOP

BRIAN CHILSON

When April turns to May, informed Little Rock shoppers know it’s time for the Farmers Market, which sets up in the River Market’s two outdoor, open-air pavilions overlooking Riverfront Park and the Arkansas River. Get a basket ready for farm-fresh potatoes, tomatoes, strawberries, etc. and pre-made local foods and handmade arts and crafts. The Farmers Market opens for business, rain or shine, on Saturdays May through early September. Shopping downtown tends, as one might expect, toward smaller shops with offbeat merchandise not readily available at big box stores. The Green Corner Store, part of the SOMA district, is for “eco-conscious consumers” who are looking for “earth-friendly” goods. The selection includes Green bath and body products with items for the home and for kids. To make shopping even more inviting, The Green Corner Store has a tea bar. Quirky, fun and funky is the rule at Moxy Modern Mercentile, another destination in SOMA for a shopper looking for something different. South Main Creative is a take-off from the traditional antique mall serving as a showcase for local artists and crafters. South Main Creative also offers classes. Looking for great art? M2 Gallery and Boswell Mourot, both in the SOMA district, offer top flight local and regional artists. Should you want to take a first step at buying original art, either of these two places are a great place to start. n

BRIAN CHILSON

(Above) The Green Corner Store is for “eco-conscious consumers” who are looking for “earthfriendly” goods. They also have a tea bar. (Left) Boswell Mourot has Fine Art from local, regional and international artists for the emerging and established collector.

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SOPHISTICATED COMFORT IN THE MURPHY ARTS DISTRICT

Located in historic downtown El Dorado, across from the Murphy Arts District, First Financial Music Hall, MAD outdoor Amphitheater and the El Dorado Conference Center. A walk away from dining and shopping. Contemporary, colorful rooms, a relaxed full-service bar, breakfast café and outdoor courtyard area with lounge seating, firepit and spa pool make for a great stay.

870- 677-6303 • 210 South Washington Avenue El Dorado • thehaywoodeldorado.tapestrycollection.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

MIDTOWN, HILLCREST and THE HEIGHTS HILLCREST

air to say the Hillcrest neighborhood, one of the oldest in Little Rock, has maintained over the last couple of decades an enviable cache as a hip and liberal enclave. Though young couples still set up roots in the Craftsmen-style homes with columned front porches that populate Hillcrest, families with

school-age children are comfortable here as well with grocery stores, restaurant, shops and schools easily accessed. If you want to know Hillcrest, you will want to become familiar with Kavanaugh Blvd, the winding, tree-lined, two-way street where most everything happens.

SEE AND DO

Let go of the stress with a relaxing nature hike in Allsopp Park.

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ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

Hillcrest comes out in droves and shows off in its annual October festival, Harvestfest. When that time comes, Kavanaugh is populated a wide variety of vendor stalls, food trucks, a beer garden and a music stage with acts playing during the festival. Allsopp Park, a wooded oasis in the heart of Hillcrest, is open and available year-round. Whether you want to travel by bike or your own two legs, the Allsopp Park North Loop and the South Loop trails give you paths to take.

Independent, locally owned stores in Hillcrest provide shoppers with plenty of interesting options. Box Turtle Imports & Gifts carries necklaces, earrings, rings, home decor and other quirky items that would impress anyone on your gift-giving list. Steps away, Control Records is proof that the album and

BRIAN CHILSON

SHOP

Box Turtle Imports & Gifts (above) carries quirky items that would delight anyone on your gift list. Audiophiles will love Control Records collection of vinyl (left).

record players are not dead and gone. Vinyl of Adele, Beastie Boys, Childish Gambino, Sonic Youth and many more provides an old-time thrill of a physical search for music. Gallery 26 has represented innovative Central Arkansas artists for 28 years. A highlight of the Christmas season is Gallery 26’s annual holiday show with pottery, sculpture, paintings, drawings and more on display and on sale. “Women owned. Women operated” is the motto for E.leighs, a popular woman’s clothing and accessories store on Kavanaugh.

BRIAN CHILSON

View the exciting art of several Central Arkansas artists at Gallery 26 (below).

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

BRIAN CHILSON

Ciao Baci's yummy chargrilled oysters.

Hill Station is one of the area's favorite outdoor dining spots.

EAT AND DRINK

The Hillcrest location for U.S. Pizza never wants for customers, who clamor for the restaurant’s thin-crust pizzas, sandwiches and salads. Just like the U.S. Pizza in the Heights, the Hillcrest spot is a comfortable fixture in the neighborhood. Leo’s Greek Castle is another longtime Hillcrest favorite with gyros and burgers served out of a sliver of a restaurant with a handful of tables. When the weather cooperates, sit at one of Leo’s outdoor tables and watch the world go by. Ciao Baci is that rare restaurant that doesn’t seem to operate under any kind of easily identified style. Open since 2001, Ciao Baci is likely the only place in the area where you can get chargrilled gulf oysters and chicken fried tofu. Also, don’t’ sleep on Ciao Baci’s bar with an impressive wine list. Czech and German food is a rare specialty for Little Rock restaurants but The Pantry Crest is an exception to the rule. The Pantry Crest serves burgers, salads and flatbreads alongside wiener schnitzel. The glory of the made-from-scratch biscuit is where to start with Hillcrest Little Bakery on Van Buren. Biscuits with avocado or gravy or, OK, pancakes make the Hillcrest Little Bakery a place to put on your breakfast (and lunch!) radar. Sushi at Kemuri is a delightful treat.

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

THE HEIGHTS

hough a small bit of distance separates the two, Hillcrest and the Heights are always thought of together. Kavanaugh Boulevard connects the neighborhoods, though the Heights originally was built around the Country Club of Little Rock (one of the oldest clubs in the country west of the Mississippi). Today, many of the smaller, older homes in the Heights have been transformed into McMansions and are, naturally, pricier. Overall, the Heights is not radically different from Hillcrest. It is another Little Rock destination worth your time and attention.

EAT AND DRINK

To talk about the Heights’ food scene, one has to immediately recognize the long-awaited opening of George’s, an American-Italian restaurant on (where else?), Kavanaugh. Replacing the adored Cafe Prego, George’s has a who’s who of Arkansas culinary creatives runGeorge’s has a who’s who of talented Arkansas chefs.

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COURTESY CIAO BACI

STAY IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK

Located in the heart of downtown and seamlessly connected to the Robinson Center, the DoubleTree Little Rock is only five blocks from the River Market Entertainment District and so much more.

BRIAN CHILSON

BROOKE WALLACE

Enjoy our guest rooms, lobby, and business center. Dine at our restaurant and lounge, Bridges, for a casual experience with local and regional fare, or pick up freshly made specialties at the Made Market. We look forward to welcoming you.

STAY IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK

DoubleTree by Hilton Little Rock 424 West Markham St.St.∙ ∙Little 72201501-372-4371 501.374.4371 ∙ doubletreelr.com 424 West Markham LittleRock, Rock, AR AR 72201 ∙ doubletreelr.com

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

THE HEIGHTS ning the show. For the near future, a table at George’s might not be as difficult to get as Taylor Swift tickets but it will be close. On Van Buren, Cheers in the Heights is a longtime fave, no doubt in part because the cozy atmosphere and a stout, balanced of menu with a catfish po-boy and a filet to choose from among other items. Close by is Scallions, which packs ‘em in for lunch with soups, salads and sandwiches. An Arkansas Food Hall of Fame member since 2018, Burge’s is easy to overlook because it’s not sitting on Kavanaugh. Order a barbecue sandwich for lunch in Burge’s retro diner or an entire hickory-smoked turkey if you are feeding an army later. Gourmet iced lollies are a taste-bud tickling experience at Le Pops. The lollies — OK, popsicles — are Salted Carmel, Peaches and Cream or some other unexpected flavor. Wheee! Heights Taco & Tamale is a happenin’ place many nights with a noisy, happy crowd filling up the bar and tables. Snag a Sweet Potato Delta Tamale and you may become a convert as well. On Grant Street, Fantastic China has been serving egg rolls and standard Chinese dishes for ages. A pot sticker dumpling throw away is Boulevard Bread Company, which is essential to visit if you wish to sample the best the Heights has to offer. Any of Boulevard’s lunch sandwiches will please, and that’s just a start. Fantastic China has been loved by many for decades in this area.

SHOP

Home décor has been the name of the game at Cobblestone & Vine since the store opened in 1993. You can set up a wedding registry and have your lamp repaired at the Heights mainstay. Items for office and home are on the shelves at Domestic Domestic. The store has a whole section on Lake Life essentials including “Last One In Is a Rotten Egg” towels. It’s true, you know. The last one in IS a rotten egg. This also makes for an eggcellent transition to tout Eggshells Kitchen Co., one of the larger stores in the Heights. Load up on cool kitchen gadgets and then learn how to use them in one of Eggshells’ cooking classes. Way back in 1972 Ozark Outdoor Supply set up a tent — well, set up a shop to sell tents, backpacks, boats, etc., to Arkansas’s unlimited supply of outdoor enthusiasts. C’mon, you can’t say you aren’t at least a little curious about Sissy’s Log Cabin from the endless parade of commercials. No doubt they will explain exactly why “Life’s too short for ordinary jewelry.’’ n

BRIAN CHILSON

Ozark Outdoor Supply is the go-to shop for outdoor enthusiasts.

2 8 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

BEST MEXICAN FOOD IN LITTLE ROCK/NLR BEST TORTILLA CHIPS, BEST CHEESE DIP, BEST TACOS IN LR/NLR Three locations serving Central Arkansas the Best Mexican Food! Little Rock • Benton • Hot Springs lahamex.com • lahaciendalittlerock.com

BRIAN CHILSON

NAMED ONE OF THE TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN ARKANSAS

Domestic Domestic is a curated store with all-American goods for the conscientious consumer!

MONDAY–FRIDAY 9AM-5PM SATURDAY 10AM-5PM CLOSED SUNDAY AND MOST MAJOR HOLIDAYS

ADULTS - $3

ADMISSION

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100 VETERAN’S CIRCLE • JACKSONVILLE 501-241-1943 • JAXMILITARYMUSEUM.ORG VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

RIVERDALE and the ARKANSAS RIVER TRAIL “G

You can get on your bike and cross the Big Dam Bridge and continue on the 21 miles of the Arkansas River Trail. Bikers, joggers, skaters and even scooter riders can take advantage of the long, straight stretch of Rebsamen Park Road. You can book a tee time at the Rebsamen Park Golf Course, which has open fairways and offers captivating views of the Arkansas River. If you need some practice, grab a bucket of balls and have at it on Rebsamen’s driving range. Got a dog? Paws Park is where your furry friend can get some time off the leash.

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

The Arkansas River Trail is a popular cycling and running destination (right). Rebsamen Park Golf Course is a local favorite of golfers (below).

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

et on your bike and ride!” sings Queen in one of their many hits. That Queen anthem might as well be the anthem for the Riverdale neighborhood, which hugs the Arkansas River and is a paradise for casual or not-so-casual bikers.

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The Arkansas Game & Fish Foundation

SHOOTING SPORTS COMPLEX

This multi-use complex is the largest of its kind in the state. It includes 14 trap fields, three skeet overlays, three lit fields, two pavilions, a lake, 3-D Archery Range and a 5,100 square foot Witt Stephens, Jr. Clubhouse!

WHERE WINNERS SHOOT & GOALS ARE ACHIEVED!

Go to CentralArkansasTickets.com to get tickets for many local shows and events!

www.JacksonvilleShootingComplex.com

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

RIVERDALE EAT AND DRINK

Off Cantrell at the bottom of a winding hill is an enticing collection of restaurants with well-earned reputations. Mark Abernathy’s Loca Luna is reliable and appreciated for a number of different reasons including the white cheese dip, brick-oven pizzas and a champagne brunch. Next door is Abernathy’s Red Door, where chicken parmesan, lasagna and other delights await. Back on Rebsamen Park Road is Pizza Cafe East, a no-frills pizza joint that nevertheless offers cold draft beer along with tasty slices of pepperoni and more. A few doors down is Buffalo Grill, where the burgers and fries rule and have done so for a while. When Junior Deputy Baseball is in session, expect Buffalo Grill’s tables to be filled with junior Mike Trouts celebrating or licking their wounds after a game. Right next door and open since 1982 is The Faded Rose — New Orleans comes to Little Rock in the form of creole-seasoned steaks and po-boy sandwiches.

COURTESY LOCA LUNA

The finest riverside dining in the state can be found at Brave New Restaurant (right).

Brick-oven pizza at Loca Luna.

SEE AND DO

The Riverdale Shopping Center is getting a major facelift, but the show — OK, movies — goes on at Riverdale 10 VIP Cinema. Big Hollywood blockbusters are on Riverdale’s screens. You can enjoy your flick and popcorn with a beer or glass of wine. n

Even though the center is going through some renovations, you can Heights Tacoa &movie Tamale Co. still enjoy at Riverdale 10 VIP Cinema in their deluxe recliner seats.

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The Faded Rose brings authentic New Orleans Creole and Cajun food to Little Rock.

BRIAN CHILSON

WE DO IT ALL

WHERE TRADITION & INNOVATION COME TO DINE Hours: Mon-Fri 10-5; Sat 10-4 • 1523 Rebsamen Park Rd Little Rock • 501-663-0460 • cynthiaeastfabrics.com

RHETT BRINKLEY

WHERETRADITION TRADITION & INNOVATION WHERE & INNOVATION COME TO DINE COME TO DINE

LIAM MICHAELS

Pavilion in the Park Lunch Mon - Sat, 11AMLunch Pavilion in the Park - 2PMMon-Sat, 11AM - 2PM Dinner Mon - Sat, 5 - 9PM 8201 Cantrell Road, Little Rock,8201 AR Cantrell Road, Little Rock,Mon AR - Sat, 5 - 9PM Dinner Closed Sunday 501.221.3330 | triosrestaurant.com Closed Sunday 501.221.3330 Pavilion in the Park Lunch Mon - Sat, 11AM - 2PM 8201 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, AR triosrestaurant.com 501.221.3330 | triosrestaurant.com

Dinner Mon - Sat, 5 - 9PM Closed Sunday VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

WEST LITTLE ROCK W

hen Little Rock decided to grow and expand, it did so out west. The tight one-way streets, tall buildings and limited parking of downtown gives way to broader roads, expanded parking lots and buildings spreading out instead of up. Every year, West Little Rock seems to add more shops, restaurants and neighborhoods sitting on or just off the main arteries of Cantrell Road/Highway 10 and Chenal Parkway.

SEE AND DO

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

Toss a Frisbee to a running dog. Push a giggling toddler on a swing. Take off on your mountain bike on Monument Trail. All of this and more is available at the Pinnacle Mountain State Park, which sits at the edge of West Little Rock, mere minutes away from the Wal-Mart on Highway 10. Oh yeah, you can also hike to the tippy-top of Pinnacle Mountain if you are feeling especially active.

The view is excellent from atop Pinnacle Mountain in Pinnacle Mountain State Park.

3 4 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

See operas and musicals at Wildwood Park for the Arts, a one-of-a-kind performance venue in a curated natural setting.

LIAM MICHAELS

Speaking of being active, how about growing your own food on a rented plot of land at the Pulaski County Garden Center? Part of the Two Rivers Park, the Garden Center hands out available plots to would-be gardeners to coax a variety of veggies out of the earth. The Garden Center encourages free tours but cautions visitors to bring a bag as you will be offered by gardeners there with produce to carry home. Hard to beat that deal! The Main Event is about as far from gardening as one can get. But a place where you can bowl, play a big collection of games like Dance Dance Revolution and Pac-Mac, shoot pool and get your laser tag on is maybe more your speed. Consider it modern fun and perhaps buy some earplugs just in case. On Bowman Road, Arkansas Skatium is an ice skating and roller skating rink together under one roof. Show off your moves and worry about possible bruises from falls tomorrow. West Little Rock is home to Wildwood Park for the Arts, which is a one-of-a-kind performance venue in a curated natural setting. Operas and musicals grace Wildwood’s thrust stage throughout the year. When not watching a show, Wildwood’s visitors can stroll through the gardens and the trails winding through the 105 acres of the park.

You can bowl, choose from a large collection of games and shoot pool at The Main Event. VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

LIAM MICHAELS

WEST LITTLE ROCK

Find over 40 unique and wonderful shops and restaurants in The Pleasant Ridge Town Center.

SHOP

Big box stores rule out west: Best Buy, Target, The Home Depot, Wal-Mart, Lowe’s, JC Penny, Barnes & Noble are out here with parking to spare and shelves stocked with products. One of the latest big brands to join in on the fun is Costco, on Chenal Parkway, finally slaking the thirst of Little Rock shoppers waiting patiently to get their hands on Kirkland merch. Trader Joe’s, the grocery store with a vibe all its own, took forever and a day to arrive but TJ’s cheap Charles Shaw wines and boxes of dark chocolate peanut butter cups clearly have fans in Central Arkansas. The Pleasant Ridge Town Center, on Cantrell/Highway 10 near the I-630, is a traditional shopping center in the sense of a mix of shops and restaurants with wide appeal. Merle Norman cosmetics, Bassett Home Furnishings, children’s clothing at The Toggery and many others are here shoulder to shoulder with a mix of restaurants from Little Greek to Sky Modern Japanese. The Promenade at Chenal is similar concept but with an AMC movie theater, Chenal 9, as an anchor at one end. The Promenade has an Apple store and many options for clothes shoppers. Popular restaurants there include Big Orange and YaYa’s Euro Bistro.

BRIAN CHILSON

EAT AND DRINK

A visit to Big Bad Breakfast is an excellent start to your day.

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Alert! Alert! A Breakfast War has broken out in West Little Rock! Duck and cover, as omelets and sausage links are flying in the fray. Big Bad Breakfast on Bowman Road takes the morning meal seriously and, as a result, has seen lines out the door of its new Little Rock location. From the fresh squeezed orange juice to skillet meals to shrimp and grits, BBB is bringing the heavy breakfast artillery (oh, BBB serves lunch, too!) As its name suggests, The Toasted Yolk, a popular new spot on Chenal, puts an eggstra emphasis on the egg dishes like the Double Decker omelet (oh, the Toasted Yolk serves lunch, too!). If you want old school, Delicious Temptations on Rodney Parham has served up divine blueberry pancakes among other breakfast faves for decades (oh, Delicious Temptations serves lunch, too!). If you don’t want a sit-down, full-on morning meal, stop by Old Mill Bread & Bakery for an award-winning cinnamon roll (oh, Old Mill serves lunch, too!).

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WEST LITTLE ROCK

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Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse offers Australian Wagyu, and Authentic Japanese KOBE. Would you rather have a substantial and sophisticated dinner? The high-end Arthur’s Prime Steakhouse offers “dry aged prime natural beef, Australian Wagyu, and world class Authentic Japanese KOBE.” Longtime local fave Butcher Shop is another spot for a New York strip or filet to fill you up. Sauced Bar and Oven, located in the Valley Village Shopping Center on Rodney Parham, has Neopolitan-style pizza along with a diverse menu of pastas and sandwiches like the Saucy Rueben. Back

Two Award Winning Restaurants In The Wyndham Riverfront

2 Riverfront Place North Little Rock Arkansas Call 501-371-9000 for reservations or online www.Wyndham.com 3 8 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

Sauced Bar and Oven has a diverse menu of pastas and sandwiches.

BRIAN CHILSON BRIAN CHILSON

out on Cantrell/Highway 10, diners have been captivated by Capers’ New American dishes with a focus on seafood since 1997. The Valley Village Shopping Center is also the location for ZIN Wine Bar, which boasts of over 60 wine choices available. Nearby, Petit & Keet Bar and Grill aims to satisfy adventurous diners and sophisticated drinkers. If Petit & Keet cocktails named Watermelon Crawl and Blood Meridian don’t intrigue you, we can’t help you. n

THE FRESH MARKET • COBBLESTONE & VINE ROBERT IRWIN JEWELERS • THREE FOLD • BELK CHICK-FIL-A • THE GOOD FEET STORE • SCARLET THE SOAP FACTORY • ROCK CITY DANCE CENTER HUNTINGTON LEARNING • RESTORE CRYOTHERAPY BONEFISH GRILL • HALLMARK MERLE NORMAN THE ART GROUP GALLERY • THE MUDDY PIG • SKY CHIPOTLE • CORE CHIROPRACTOR • SALON L • VESTA’S AT&T • THE TOGGERY • PIGTAILS & CREWCUTS BASSETT • ENGEL & VOLKERS • BEYOND COTTON UBREAKIFIX • UNIQUE THREADING • SALON UNITY SPOKES BICYCLE • PINSPIRATION • LITTLE GREEK IDEAL IMAGE • FORSYTHE’S & KRISTIN TODD FLEET FEET • POWDER & SMOKE • THE GRIND BAR LOUIE • CRUMBL COOKIE • POUT • MR. HUI’S PURE BARRE • WARREN’S • ROSE SPA • BLAZE PIZZA

Pleasant Shopping. 11525 CANTRELL ROAD

Pleasant Dining.

Pleasant Ridge.

PLEASANTRIDGETOWNCENTER.COM

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

HOTTEST NEIGHBORHOOD

ARGENTA C

olorful and concentrated in a way one could almost call quaint, the downtown North Little Rock neighborhood of Argenta is not as big but is every bit the equal to revitalized downtown Little Rock next door across the river. Argenta has Central Arkansas’ headline performance space — Simmons Bank Arena

— mere blocks away from a small but lively collection of restaurants, art galleries, bars and the Argenta Community Theatre on Main Street. Argenta, loaded with arresting outdoor murals, does not hide its artistic bent and, as a result, rewards visitors stopping by for a day or moving in and settling down for a longer spell.

EAT & DRINK

A cozy, quiet place to have a glass of wine is harder to find than one would expect, but it is the mission accomplished by Crush Wine Bar on Argenta’s active Main Street. Flyway Brewing Company is a local microbrewery gaining admirers with every flavorful beer produced. Sit down at Flyway’s Maple Street location and have plate of sliders or nachos and a glass of Bluewing Berry Wheat. Yesssss. The eternal satisfaction of Italian food is on display at Ristorante Capeo, on Argenta’s Main Street. Linguini in Clam Sauce? Baked Rigatoni? Double yesssss.

BRIAN CHILSON

Dining in Argenta: Pasta at Ristorante Capeo (right), the intimate neighborhood wine bar Crush (below right), nachos at Flyway Brewing Company (below).

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LIAM MICHAELS

Continued on page 42

Fine Local Shops Fine Local Shops CYNTHIA EAST FABRICS has been Little Rock’s “go-to” fabric source for over 45 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. - 5:00 p.m. Sat 10 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. 1523 Rebsamen Park Rd. Little Rock 501-663-0460 cynthiaeast.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! Monday–Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 10am-5pm Closed Sunday and most major holidays 100 Veteran’s Circle • Jacksonville 501-241-1943 • www.jaxmilitarymuseum.org

BOSWELL MOUROT FINE ART features fine art from local, regional and international artists for the emerging and established collector. 501-454-6969 1501 South Main St, Suite H Little Rock, AR 72202 www.boswellmourot.com

Artist Sharon Locke VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

ARGENTA

COURTEY SIMMONS BANK ARENA

Nickelback is one of many acts that perform at Simmons Bank Arena.

BROOKE WALLACE

Continued from page 40

Have a laugh-out-loud good time at The Joint Comedy Theater.

4 2 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

Arkansas Travelers play home baseball games at Dickey-Stephens Park (above). The Argenta Plaza features a water wall, fountains and a stage for live performances (below).

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

Want to see how much the city of North Little Rock cares about Argenta? Check out the Argenta Plaza, a $5.3 milliondollar community space owned by the city and managed by the North Little Rock CVB. The Plaza has a front porch area with modern swings, a water wall, fountains and a stage for live performances. National acts frequently commandeer the stage at nearby Simmons Bank Arena. Simmons has a capacity of 18,000 and often fills up with fans coming to see Elton John, Legends of Hip Hop, Alice Cooper and on and on. When the weather turns nice and winter gives way to spring, the AA minor league Arkansas Travelers play home baseball games at Dickey-Stephens Park. As fan friendly a space as you can find, there is truly not a bad seat at Dickey-Stephens. You can’t catch a fly ball at the Argenta Community Theatre on Main Street but you could see “Damn Yankees” or other musicals or straight plays at the hard-working theater company. Every third Friday of the month, visual art takes a spin in the spotlight with the 3rd Friday Art Walk. Stretch your legs and follow a map of galleries with doors open and work on display. The Joint Comedy Theater on Main Street is a small but busy venue where visitors can see improve comedy, hear acoustic music and catch performances by The Main Thing, a trio of actors/musicians with impressive national credits. n

ARKANSAS DEPT OF PARKS HERITAGE AND TOURISM

SEE & DO

Local Culture

ARTX3 CAMPUS 701 S. Main St., Pine Bluff • 870-536-3375

Open: Tue-Fri 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Closed holidays Admission: Free Admission mhenson@asc701.org | www.asc701.org

ARKANSAS REPERTORY THEATRE 601 Main Street, Little Rock • (501) 378-0405 • TheRep.org “T

he Rep” is Arkansas’s flagship professional, non-profit theatre company, creating accessible, engaging theatrical experiences for over 45 years. They produce a summer “mainstage” season of full-scale plays and musicals, as well as special performances and events, year-round. They also present a suite of education and civic engagement programming, using theatre in all its forms to bring together and celebrate the community.

he ARTx3 Campus is the convergence of art, creativity, and community in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Our campus is comprised of three dynamic facilities. The Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas presents programming in the visual arts, performing arts, and the sciences through exhibits, performances, classes, and local partnerships. Located next door, The ARTSpace on Main is a multipurpose community arts and events space, where visitors can experience live music, local and regional art, diverse workshops, and so much more! ART WORKS on Main is home to the Adam B. Robinson Jr. Black Box Theater for small, community-oriented productions. Many of the spaces are available to book for private events and photoshoots. We aim to empower our community through the arts, support the revitalization of Downtown Pine Bluff, bolster the creative economy, and bring positive attention to our city.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

Local Culture

SIX

CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS’ BROADWAY SERIES AT ROBINSON CENTER F

or twenty-five years, Celebrity Attractions has presented its Broadway Series in Little Rock and happily calls Robinson Center its home! Located in downtown Little Rock, this state-of-the art facility on the banks of the Arkansas River makes it easy for locals and travelers alike to enjoy dinner out and a show, making it a great night on the town. Taking the stage this season is the Broadway smash hit, SIX, the hilarious stage productions of MEAN GIRLS and SHREK The Musical, the Broadway classic, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, the ultimate love story of PRETTY WOMAN The Musical, the fan favorite, COME FROM AWAY and the one of a kind JOHNNY CASH The Official Concert Experience. Dedicated to bringing Broadway and more to you since 1983, Celebrity Jesus Christ Superstar Attractions is a presenter and producer of national tours and handles marketing and group sales across the Southwest and Midwest. In association with local partnerships, Celebrity Attractions presents nationally touring Broadway seasons in four different regional markets including Little Rock, Tulsa, Springfield and Amarillo. In past seasons in Little Rock, Celebrity Attractions has brought in such Broadway blockbusters as HAMILTON, WICKED, Disney’s THE LION KING and THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. For more information on individual shows or on season ticket packages, call Celebrity Attractions at 501.244.8800 or visit celebrityattractions.com.

2023-2024 BROADWAY SCHEDULE

SIX – October 24-29, 2023 JOHNNY CASH – The Official Concert Experience– November 4, 2023 MEAN GIRLS – February 2-4, 2024 JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR – March 1-3, 2024 SHREK The Musical – March 27-28, 2024 PRETTY WOMAN The Musical – April 26-28, 2024 COME FROM AWAY – August 2-4, 2024

4 4 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

MACARTHUR MUSEUM OF ARKANSAS MILITARY HISTORY

503 E. Ninth St., Little Rock • 501-376-4602 • littlerock.gov/macarthur Tue-Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun 1 p.m.-5 p.m.; Closed Mondays and major holidays Admission: Free

he MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History interprets our state’s military heritage and honors the contributions of Arkansans who served in conflicts from the territorial period to the present. It is located in the historic Arsenal Building, a National Historic Landmark and one of Little Rock’s oldest surviving structures. Built in 1840 to protect a frontier state from attack by Native Americans, it witnessed pivotal exchanges between Federal and Confederate forces during the Civil War, and later became the birthplace of General Douglas MacArthur. Through exhibits and programming, the museum ensures that “old soldiers never die.” Instead, their sacrifice and service are preserved for future generations.

ARGENTA COMMUNITY THEATER 405 Main St., North Little Rock • 501-353-1443 • argentacommunitytheater.org LITTLE ROCK ZOO 1 Zoo Drive (I-630 and Fair Park), Little Rock • 501-661-7200

Visit LittleRockZoo.com for trip tips, group rates, and more information. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Children under 3 years old - Free Children (3-12 years) - $9.95; Adults (13 and up) - $12.95 Seniors (60 and up) and Active Military with I.D. - $2 off Regular admission

he Little Rock Zoo’s mission is to inspire people to value and conserve our natural world. Every visit to the Little Rock Zoo is a different adventure in memories, learning, and fun! Parade over to the popular Laura P. Nichols Penguin Pointe exhibit to watch South African penguins and the new baby, Betty White, play above and below the water. Swing by the Orangutan exhibit to get a peek at the toddler orangutan, Kasih. Treat yourself to a thrilling ride back into Arkansas history on the historic Over-the-Jumps-Carousel or take a ride on the Animal Tracks Train! Check the website to see what’s planned with new animals, special events, celebrations, and educational programs. The Zoo is an ever-changing experience for visitors of all ages. Connect with living creatures and learn how to create a better future for all living things all while you enjoy a day with your family. Since 1926, the Zoo has been one of Arkansas’s greatest treasures and one of Arkansas’s most visited attractions, with just over 300,000 per year. Today, an expert staff cares for 400+ animals giving love and attention and focusing on conservation of animals in the wild. Come meet our animals and fall in love with them. Visit our hands-on environment where learning is interactive and fun. We encourage curiosity and activity through nature play, like at our new Blue & You Sensory Garden and Blue & You Nature Playground. The Zoo’s educational experiences connect people with the natural world and conservation, which we believe will help in our goal to protect species and ensure long-term survival of them in the wild. The only Zoo in Arkansas accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums.

Open: Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Varies

ocated in the heart of North Little Rock’s Argenta Arts District, the Argenta Community Theater serves as a centerpiece of a vibrant artistic community. From crowd-pleasing musicals to vibrant new works to theatrical classics, there is truly something for everyone to love on the ACT stage. But, there is so much more to this state of the art facility than just our top-notch plays and musicals! Argenta also coordinates educational programs for all ages, hosts community and cultural events, and is available as a flexible venue for weddings, events, performances and more. Founded in 2010 by Vincent Insalaco and Judy Tenenbaum, The Argenta Community Theater strives to bring performance and participation in the arts to Central Arkansas now, and for generations to come.

MURRY’S DINNER PLAYHOUSE 6323 Colonel Glenn Rd, Little Rock • 501-562-3131 • murrysdp.com Show Times & Schedule Online Admission: $27-$41

urry’s Dinner Playhouse, one of the nation’s premier dinner theaters, has been providing ArkansaswithtopBroadway musicals, comedies, and celebrity attractions for more than 56 years. Enjoy an excellent meal, followed by a spectacular Broadway show, all at one low price. VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

Local Culture

THE STUDIO THEATRE 320 W. 7th St., Little Rock 501-374-2615 • studiotheatrelr.com

Open: Thurs, Fri, Sat 7:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.; Sun 2:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. $25 (General Admission) $20 (Seniors/Military)

he Studio Theatre exists to enrich the central Arkansas community by providing quality theatre experiences that utilize local talent to challenge and grow every person that sits in our audience. The Studio believes the heartbeat of artistic expression is providing transformative experiences that challenge the emotions, intellect and worldview of our audiences. Since its inception in 2014, the Studio has brought theatrical innovation to central Arkansas audiences by producing a diverse season of ten plays and musicals each year.

Tables: $210 • Early Entrance: Additional $50 • Adults: $35 • Seniors: $30 Military: $30 • Students: $25 • Group of 12 or more: $20 • Season X Pass: $300

SOUTHLAND CASINO HOTEL 1550 Ingram Blvd. West Memphis • (800) 467-6182 • SouthlandCasino.com Open: 24 hours a day Admission: 21 years of age or older

outhland Casino Hotel is the Mid-South’s premier destination for gaming, sports betting, and dining. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the excitement never stops! Southland’s two-and-a-half football fields-long casino floor boasts a variety of thrilling gaming options to suit every style. Try out more than 2,300 slot machines from penny to high limit, including new, exclusive and fan favorites. If cards are more your style, sit down at one of our 50 live table games, playing everything from blackjack to crapless craps. Dine at one of our eight restaurants and bars and stay the night at our gleaming glass high-rise hotel with 300 rooms including luxury suites. Book your stay and come experience it for yourself.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

WINDGATE MUSEUM OF ART 1600 Washington Ave., Conway • 501-328-2386 • windgatemuseum.org Hours: Tues-Sat 12-5 p.m.

ocated on the campus of Hendrix College (just off Winfield St. near the Harkrider St. roundabout), the Windgate Museum of Art presents outstanding art exhibitions, compelling educational programs, and invigorating social activities for students, faculty, staff, and visitors to campus. With a vision to be the premier teaching art museum in Arkansas, the WMA is free and open to all and uses hands-on experiences to train students in all facets of museum work, including curatorial research, collection management, educational and social programming, and marketing and communications, as well as exhibition research, planning, installation, and evaluation. Visit today and see www.windgatemuseum.org for more information about upcoming events and exhibitions.

4 6 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

While you’re visiting our town, look for entertaining events at CentralArkansasTickets.com

t is hard to imagine anybody

CATHERINE FOTHERGILL, COURTESY BALLET ARKANSAS

Performance! Ballet Arkansas’s holds performances at the Robinson Center, the University of Arkansas-Pulaski Tech and the Arkansas Repertory Theatre.

in Central Arkansas would

feel deprived in options to see a live performance — theatre, dance, music and more are well-established parts of the arts and entertainment calendar in these parts. Here is a guide — by no means comprehensive — for venues and organizations offering up shows to satisfy your hunger for a performance.

BALLET ARKANSAS

WHAT IT IS: A professional dance company set to celebrate its 45th year. Ballet Arkansas’s company of 16 dancers is ranked among the Top 100 Ballet Companies in America. Though the troupe has no permanent home at this time, Ballet Arkansas holds performances at the Robinson Center, the University of Arkansas-Pulaski Tech and the Arkansas Repertory Theatre. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE: Under the direction of Michael Fothergill, Ballet Arkansas has in the last few years put together robust seasons of dance. “The Nutcracker” and “Swan Lake” are two classical ballets on the docket. An interpretation of “Alice in Wonderland” will aim to delight children young and old. An outdoor performance at North Little Rock’s Argenta Plaza will be a mix of “classical excerpts and cutting-edge pieces.” WATCH OUT FOR: “Down the Rabbit Hole Tea” where Ballet Arkansas guests “will join Alice, the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit, and additional costumed characters for a Wonderland-themed tea filled with fancy and frills.” https://www.balletarkansas.org/ VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

BRIAN CHILSON

Enjoy dinner and fine theater at Murry’s Dinner Playhouse.

THE ARKANSAS REPERTORY THEATRE

MURRY’S DINNER PLAYHOUSE

WHAT IT IS: Long-running dinner theatre where productions of crowd-pleasing musicals and comedies come with a buffet. Meatloaf and murder mystery? Yes, please.

WHAT IT IS: Professional live theater that has been a cornerstone in Little Rock’s culture scene for decades. Shuttered during the pandemic, The Rep has since returned to much fanfare and celebration by theater lovers. As a regional theater, The Rep has auditioned and cast actors from around the country for its productions. Recently, the theatre company has announced that it will emphasize partnerships with arts organizations from the community.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE: “Broadway titles such as “Beauty and The Beast.” Knockabout farces like “Run for Your Wife.” “Southern Fried Funeral” and other comedies with a distinctive twang. WATCH OUT FOR: Some of Arkansas’ most beloved performers consider Murry’s a home away from home. Natalie Canerday, who had prominent roles in feature films “Sling Blade,” “October Sky” and many others, is a Murry’s regular. https://murrysdp.com/

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE: Recent seasons at The Rep featured a half-dozen or so productions in its 385seat downtown theater equipped with a proscenium stage. The Rep’s roster has included beloved musicals such as “Guys and Dolls” and comedies including Neil Simon’s “Laughter on the 23rd Floor.” Noted actor Judge Reinhold was a cast member for the Simon comedy. WATCH OUT FOR: The lively lobby of The Rep features local art that makes for a pleasant diversion while waiting for the curtain to rise.

therep.org

Actors from around the country have performed at The Rep.

4 8 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

READERS

CHOICE

A ARDS FINALIST 2022 2023

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CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS

WHAT IT IS: “Bringing Broadway and More to You” is the banner gracing Celebrity Attractions website. Celebrity Attractions performances happen at the recently renovated Robison Center.

COURTESY CELEBRITY ATTRACTIONS

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE: Touring productions of recent popular Broadway shows (almost exclusively musicals) along with the occasional special presentation such as “Johnny Cash — The Official Concert Experience.” WATCH OUT FOR: Want to see a wildly popular Broadway show such as “Wicked” or “Hamilton” but don’t want to or can’t catch it in New York City? Give it time and it will eventually show up in Little Rock through Celebrity Attractions. https://www.celebrityattractions.com/

Celebrity Attractions brings shows like “Johnny Cash – The Official Concert Experience” to Little Rock.

WILDWOOD PARK FOR THE ARTS

WHAT IT IS: Unique combination of nature with a performance venue out in West Little Rock. The 105-acre Wildwood Park features expansive, manicured gardens open and free to the public. On the grounds is a building containing the Lucy Lockett Cabe 625-seat thrust stage, home to locally produced operas and musicals. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE: Musicals and operas like “Monty Python’s Spamalot” and seasonal festivals packed with music performances and art exhibits such as the Lanterns Festival. WATCH OUT FOR: Visitors are allowed to fish at Wildwood’s small pond.

www.wildwoodpark.org/

Fine performances like “Monty Python’s Spamalot” take place at Wildwood Park for the Arts.

5 0 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

Argenta Community Theatre presents excellent shows in Downtown North Little Rock.

ARGENTA COMMUNITY THEATRE

WHAT IT IS: Downtown North Little Rock’s community theater operating in a space of the same name. Every year it seems ACT’s season grows bigger with a greater number of ambitious productions of musicals and straight plays. ACT stages work on a multilevel proscenium stage in a 300-seat auditorium. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE: Most of ACT’s titles are known works; for instance musicals such as “Rent” and “Godspell” and dramas such as “Doubt.” WATCH OUT FOR: “One Ninth,” a new play by local writer Spirit Trickey about her mother Minnijean Brown, one of the Little Rock Nine, the first African-American students who attended Little Rock Central High School. https://argentacommunitytheater.org/

WHITE WATER TAVERN

WHAT IT IS: Beloved Little Rock bar tucked away on Seventh and Thayer Streets hosts a dizzying array of musical acts on a small stage with limited but intimate seating. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE: The question should be what type of music and musical acts can you not see at the White Water? Fan favorite local rock bands — Mulehead, Fox Green, The Rockin’ Guys — along with reggae, hip-hop and the occasional artist with a national reputation like singer-songwriter James McMurtry. WATCH OUT FOR: Indulge at White Water with a burger, catfish basket or another menu item and a cold beer during a show.

THE HALL

WHAT IT IS: A new, very active music venue in downtown Little Rock. Standing room capacity at The Hall is 1,300 and there are limited seats available. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE: Veteran virtuoso guitarist Steve Vai and hip-hop hit maker Soulja Boy appearing within days of each other shows off The Hall’s range. WATCH OUT FOR: Patrons are encouraged to take an Uber or Lyft to and from shows at The Hall to avoid the hassle of finding parking around the venue. https://littlerockhall.com/

https://www.whitewatertavern.com/

ARKANSAS TIMES WWW.ARKTIMES.COM VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

Let’s Have a Drink C

an we see the drink menu please? Ah yes, the list that not so long ago had a couple of dusty wines, national brand beers and maybe a rough shot of off-market bourbon is

now loaded with creative, bar-made cocktails, scads of indie beers and small batch wines. Central Arkansas is home to indie breweries and a powerhouse distillery. The creative revolution happening at the bar is a development worth raising a glass or two in salute.

CHOCOLATE MARTINI

IAN

ILS

TRIOS Since 1986, Trio’s has earned a loyal clientele by serving confident, creative twists on standard fare such as pasta, enchiladas and steak. Trio’s imagination extends to its extensive cocktail menu, which includes seasonal selections along with Trio’s Originals and Classic and Modern Cocktails. Oh, the decisions they force you to make! If you find yourself at Trio’s in the summer, cross your fingers and hope they have the heavenly Hibiscus Lavender Martini. If not, raise your hand for the Chocolate Martini: Wheatley vodka, Giffard Crème de Cacao, Bailey’s, cream, chocolate bitters. You are on your own to figure out your own reason/excuse for this wicked indulgence.

WXYZ BAR Most hotel bars seem to be forlorn if not altogether depressing spots where not much happens and very few pay attention. The WXYZ Bar in the boutique Aloft Little Rock West hotel is relatively new on the West Little Rock scene and a lively, fun place to have a drink. WXYZ has an outdoor patio and several comfy couches tucked away in corners in the open indoor space. When you add in a pool table, board games and a bar with big screen TVs, you’ve got a spot that feels just right for a sparkly, bubbly glass of prosecco.

5 2 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

A GLASS OF PROSECCO

PEACHY KEET

PETIT & KEET BAR AND GRILL/ KEET’S CORNER BAR West Little Rock’s Petit & Keet Bar and Grill is painted black, an indication that the restaurant takes its sophisticated, upscale cuisine seriously. Keet’s Corner Bar is low-lit and has a no-nonsense attitude about it. Keet’s cocktail menu is hefty and is clearly the result of some thought and effort. The Peachy Keet, a frozen concoction that comes out in a glass that looks like a can, is Petit & Keet’s signature drink. The menu says the recipe is a secret. Doesn’t’ matter — it tastes great. Bottoms up!

CO U

P ES Y

BLUEWING BERRY WHEAT

LIAM MICHAELS

FLYWAY BREWING Describing itself as a 10-barrel microbrewery, Flyway Brewing has a home down in North Little Rock’s Argenta District. Honeybird Blonde Ale, Early Bird IPA and Shadow Hands Stout are three examples of Flyway’s brews you can sample. We call your attention to the Bluewing Berry Wheat, a beer you can taste at Flyway along with a selection from a food menu. You can also pick up a small case of Bluewing at Kroger or other grocers in this area. Beer drinkers smitten with Blue Moon or other fruitbased beer would do themselves well to give the smooth, fragrant Bluewing a shot. Our guess is you won’t regret it — or return much to your former favorite.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

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., LR. Alcohol is available. $$-$$$. 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 Center, features an internationally focused menu, as you might expect. 1200 President Clinton Ave. Full bar. $-$$. 537-0042. L Mon.-Sat., BR Sun.; D Thu.-Sat. ALLSOPP & CHAPPLE Elegant appetizers, filets, salmon, sea bass, shrimp and trout served alongside gorgeous cocktails. 311 S. Main St. Full bar. $$-$$$. 902-4911. LD Mon.-Fri.; D Sat. ARTHUR’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE Dry-aged prime, Australian wagyu and certified Japanese Kobe beef in an elegant setting. There’s a wide choice of seafood, too. 16100 Chenal Parkway. Full bar. $$$. 821-1838. D Mon.-Sat.

BROOD & BARLEY GASTROPUB Great food and service with an interesting menu and full bar. Their Philly’s are super popular and they have delicious nightly specials. Their happy hour bites and drinks specials are 3-6PM Daily. Full bar. 411 Main Street, NLR. 501-400-8967. LD Mon.-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, LR. No alcohol. $-$$. 666-1660. LD Mon.-Sat. BUFFALO WILD WINGS Sports bar nirvana with great wings and all the TVs you could want for watching the big game. 14800 Cantrell Road. 4600 Silver Creek Dr, Sherwood. Full bar. $$. 868-5279. 819-0192 LD daily. CACHE RESTAURANT Well-presented plates of lobster, steak, chops and duck in a sleek, finedining atmosphere, with a slightly more casual lunch of pizza, sandwiches, fish and the like. 425 President Clinton Ave, LR. Full bar. $$-$$$. 8500265. LD Mon.-Fri. D Sat., BR Sun.

CITY SILO Breakfast all day plus acai bowls, smoothies, hard-core veggie burgers, tacos, more. 17701 Chenal Pkwy, LR. $-$$. 298-8098. BLD Mon.-Sat. BL Sun. COPPER GRILL Comfort food with a twist; burgers, salads, great desserts, and more sophisticated dinner fare like filet mignon, salmon and walleye. 300 E. Third St, LR. Full bar. $$-$$$. 375-3333. LD Mon.-Sat. CORKY’S RIBS & BBQ The pulled pork is extremely tender and juicy, while the sauce is sweet and tangy without a hint of heat. Maybe the best dry ribs in the area. 12005 Westhaven Drive, LR. Full bar. $$-$$$. 954-7427. LD daily. COUNT PORKULA This amazing BBQ joint has 2 locations: Maumelle Boulevard and just off Cantrell Road and Keightley. Biggest hit is the brisket, and heck any ole thing you want! 10840 Maumelle Blvd, LR. 246-5669, 201 Keightley Drive. 501-804-9561. LD daily. CYPRESS SOCIAL Enjoy upscale Southern dishes with Cajun-Creole flair. Creative appetizers, huge salads and mouth-watering entrees are the order of the day here, featuring favorites from the Arkansas Delta to the Big Easy. 7103 Cock of the Walk Lane, NLR. Full Bar. CC. $$-$$$. 916-2670. D Mon.-Sat.

BIG BAD BREAKFAST Lavish attention to the first – and most important – meal of the day. Custom-created meats, fresh biscuits and preserves, locally roasted coffee and some of the best cocktails you’ll find anywhere. 101 S Bowman Rd., LR. Full Bar. $$. 406-0195. BL. Sunday-Saturday.

BRIAN CHILSON

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. $-$$. 372-1926. L Sat.-Sun. D Tues.-Sun.

OL BART’S AT DIAMOND BEAR The ultimate destination for mouthwatering BBQ dishes. The restaurant offers shareable bar bites and appetizers along with a wide variety of craft beers, signature cocktails, and spirits. 600 N. Broadway St., NLR. $$-$$$. 406-7819. LD Tue., Thurs., Fri.-Sat.

BIG ORANGE-MIDTOWN Hamburgers, shakes and fries are big draws, but you can Big Bad Breakfast get veggie burgers, turkey burgers, chicken sandwiches and creative big salads. 207 N. University Ave. Other locations in West Little Rock. CAPERS is a casual yet upscale food and wine Full bar. $$. 379-8715. LD daily. venue. Popular lunch and dinner options include

DIZZY’S GYPSY BISTRO Interesting bistro fare and award-winning Le Petit Roche cheese dip at this neighborhood favorite. 200 River Market Ave., LR Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 375-3500. LD Tue.-Sat.

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. $$. 324-2449. LD daily.

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. 1023 W. Markham St. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 376-1195. LD Mon.-Fri.; D Sat.

BLACKBERRY MARKET Fresh and flavorful breakfast offerings, savory lunch paninis, and delicious salads –– everything to provide you a meal that is as healthy as it is delicious. Grab & Go meals, coffee and catering are also available. 315A Main Street, NLR. Cocktails. $$. 501.263.8828. BLD Sun.-Sat. BOULEVARD BREAD CO. Fresh bread and pastries made daily, and a wide selection of cheeses, meats and fresh sandwiches and salads. Good coffee, too. 1920 N. Grant. Full bar. $$. 663-5951. BLD Mon.-Sat. BRAVE NEW RESTAURANT Chef/owner Peter Brave was doing “farm-to-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, LR. Full bar. $$-$$$. 663-2677. LD Mon.-Fri.; D Sat.

5 4 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

the grilled chicken breast, gulf grouper, fried oysters and chicken piccata. They also have gourmet to-go meals available at Market at Capers. 14502 Cantrell Rd. Ste. 4271. Full Bar. $$-$$$. 868-7600. LD Mon-Sat. 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, LR. Full bar. $$-$$$. 370-7013. LD daily. CHEERS IN THE HEIGHTS Good burgers, sandwiches, salads, and vegetarian offerings at lunch, and delicious fish, steaks and pasta dishes in the evening. 2010 N. Van Buren St, LR. Full bar. $$-$$$. 663-5937. LD Mon.-Sat. CIAO BACI This casually swank Hillcrest bungalow has one of the best outdoor venues– a shady deck in the summer and heaters during the cooler months. Chef has daily fine dining specials, including “bar bites” and hand crafted cocktails, but a crowd favorite is the Baci Burger with jalapeno cheddar tots. The menu changes seasonally, so you always get to try new things! 605 N. Beechwood St, LR. Full bar. $$-$$$. 603-0238. D Mon.-Sat.

DUGAN’S PUB Located in downtown Little Rock, serves up Irish fare like fish and chips and corned beef and cabbage, alongside classic bar food. The chicken fingers and burgers are also a stand out. 401 East 3rd Street, LR. duganspublr.com. 501-244-0542. EAT MY CATFISH serves up fresh, never frozen, U.S. farm-raised catfish, fresh, free-range Arkansas chicken and the best shrimp, crab legs, and crawfish around. Try at any of their 8 locations. Eatmycatfish.com. Beer & Wine at select locations. CC. $$. LD daily. THE FADED ROSE Vet of LR dining scene, the Cajun-inspired menu never disappoints. The Rose’s steaks, the Judge’s cheese dip and the soaked salads are legendary. 1619 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 663-9734. LD daily.

NAMED BEST RESTAURANT IN ARKANSAS 18 OUT OF THE LAST 29 YEARS! ARKANSAS TIMES READERS CHOICE AWARDS READERS

CHOICE

BEST FINE DINING IN LITTLE ROCK/ NORTH LITTLE ROCK

A ARDS WINNER 2022 2023

READERS

CHOICE

CHEF PETER BRAVE CHEF BEN LINDLEY A ARDS FINALIST 2022 2023

BEST OUTDOOR DINING IN LITTLE ROCK/ NORTH LITTLE ROCK BEST SEAFOOD IN LITTLE ROCK/ NORTH LITTLE ROCK BEST CHEF IN LITTLE ROCK/ NORTH LITTLE ROCK

PLEASE CALL FOR RESERVATIONS

Little Rock’s original farm-to-table, fine dining restaurant 501-663-2677 • 2300 COTTONDALE LANE, LITTLE ROCK • BRAVENEWRESTAURANT.COM VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

FLORA JEAN’S is a wellness-centered, plantfocused & nutrient-dense restaurant in the heart of downtown Little Rock. Try amazing breakfast and lunch offerings, teas, juices, lattes and hand crafted cocktails. 433 East Third. Full Bar. $$$. 501-891-6919. BL. Wed.-Sun.

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. $$-$$$. 663-4666. L Mon.-Fri.; D daily; BR Sat.-Sun.

ceiling views of the Museum’s outdoor sculptures, landscaped Event Lawn, and MacArthur Park. The restaurant has outdoor dining options, as well as a spacious private dining room. MacArthur Park Historic District, 501 E 9th St, LR. 372-4000. $$-$$$. L Tues.-Fri. D Wed.-Fri. Brunch Sat.-Sun.

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. $$. 375-3474. LD daily.

LOST FORTY BREWING Craft brewery restaurant with a Delta influence on its food. Don’t miss out on amazing salads and sandwiches. 501 Byrd St. Beer and wine. $$. 319-7335. LD Wed.-Sun. BR Sun.

PETIT & KEET Finer dining offers fresh, creative dishes and a great wine list for discriminating palates. Steaks, veal and seafood are all on the menu in this stylish sit-down enclave. Fully operating bar is home to some of the city’s most creative mixologists. 1620 Market St. Full bar. $$$. 3197675. D Mon.-Sat.

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.. $$. 372-8032. LD daily.

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. $$-$$$. 660-4040. LD Tue-Sat. MIDTOWN BILLIARDS A hangout of first order. Grilling amazing burgers, Spam sandwiches, grilled

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.

RED DOOR Fresh seafood, steaks, chops, pastas, burgers and sandwiches served with deliciously detailed cocktails. 3701 Old Cantrell Road. Full bar. $$-$$$. 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.

HAM MARKET If you are looking for the perfect sandwich- this is your spot. This specialty market and butcher shop provides house-made charcuterie, provisions, soups and more. 2807 Kavanaugh Blvd, Ste B. CC. $$. 671-6328. HILL STATION Come for lunch, stay for happy hour and dinner! Indoor seating, but the outdoor lawn picnic tables are the best. Bring two and four legged friends. A house favorite is the BBQ Salad and one of the best sides ever is the lentil salad. Great staff, lots of TVs, music and good ol’ people watching. 2712 Kavanaugh Blvd, Opens at 4PM, weekends earlier for lunch crowds and watching the game on TV. Opens at 4, earlier on weekends. 501.747.2230.

BRIAN CHILSON

FOUR QUARTER BAR This Argenta favorite doesn’t serve your average bar food. The menu features locally sourced pork, handmade sauces and famous hand-pattied burgers along with weekly specials that you won’t find anywhere else. Even better, the kitchen is open until 1:30 a.m. every night. Four Quarter also offers a great selection of rotating craft beer on draft. With great live music, a hidden patio, shuffleboard and dominoes, Four Quarter Bar has it all. 415 Main Street, NLR, 501-313-4704. 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. $-$$. 372-2211. LD daily.

Flying Saucer cheeses and even Boca burgers late into the night. 1316 S. Main St. Full bar. $$$. 372-9990. D daily. MUGS CAFE This Argenta neighborhood hangout and coffee bar is open for breakfast and lunch: Try delicious sandwiches, specials, and all-day breakfast foods. 515 Main St., NLR. Beer and wine. $$. 379-9101. BLD Mon.-Sat. BL Sun. MURRY’S DINNER PLAYHOUSE has been serving up food, fun and fabulous live entertainment since 1967. The Playhouse takes pride in offering a complete evening with a dinner and a show all for one low price. For less than the price of dinner and a movie, you can experience the wonderful world of live theater! The buffet menu changes every show, to go along with the shows’ theme. 6323 Col Glenn Rd., LR. murrysdp.com. 501-562-3131

HOMER’S KITCHEN TABLE Great food and good ol’ fashion service, friendly and on top of everything. Just like Mama’s cookin’. Brunch is served. Fried Catfish, Country Fried Steak and an entire menu full of home cooking. Full Bar. 11121 N Rodney Parham Rd.72212.

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 JFK Blvd., NLR. Full bar. $$. 420-1117. LD Tue.-Sat.

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.

THE OYSTER BAR Long standing, family-friendly joint serving shrimp gumbo, fried catfish and other Cajun-styled favorites. TV’s always on and live music plays in the background. Don’t miss the fresh oysters and the other seafood heavy items. A complete renovation makes it feel comfortable, to go along with the great food. Full Bar, Opens 11 am to10pm. 3003 W. Markham Street, Little Rock 501.666.7100

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. Also a “James Beard Award” winner. 518 E. 27th St. Beer and wine. $-$$. 372-8714. LD Tue.-Sat.

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

THE RAIL YARD Dog-friendly Hangar Hill-area food truck court that also serves as permanent home to Count Porkula BBQ. 1212 E. Sixth St. Beer and wine. $-$$$. 372-9273. LD Tues.-Sun.

PARK GRILL @ AMFA Park Grill serves contemporary American fare inspired by local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant features floor-to-

RIVERFRONT STEAKHOUSE Located inside the Wyndham Riverfront in North Little 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. $$$. 375-7825. D Mon.-Sat. THE ROOT CAFE Homey, local food-focused cafe. With tasty burgers, homemade bratwurst, banh mi and a number of vegan and veggie options. Sweet potato fries for the win. Breakfast and Sunday brunch, too. 1500 S. Main St. No alcohol. $$$. 414-0423. BL Tue.Sat.; BR Sun. 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. $$-$$$. 379-8019. LD Mon.-Sat. SIMS BAR-B-QUE A Little Rock classic with great spare ribs, sandwiches, beef, half and whole chicken and a unique vinegar-mustard-brown sugar sauce. 1307 John Barrow Road. Beer. $-$$. 224-2057. LD Mon.-Sat. SKINNY J’S There is something for everyone on the mind-blowingly large menu — 17 appetizers and 15 burger choices. 314 Main St., NLR. Full bar. $$. 916-2645. LD Mon.-Fri., BLD Sat.-Sun. 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. $$-$$$. 663-1464. LD Mon.-Sat.; D Sun. SONNY WILLIAMS’ STEAK ROOM Top-of-the-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. $$$-$$$$. 3242999. D Mon.-Sat. STERLING MARKET With a concept driven by all things local – chefs, food and products – it’s a place where you can gather, celebrate, relax & unwind. Enjoy smoked meats, cocktails, and pizza. 515 Shall Ave, LR. $$-$$$. 300-6938. BLD Tues.-Sun.

Continued on page 60

BRINGING THETHE BEST TOTO YOUR BRINGING BEST YOURTABLE TABLE JOIN US FOR EASTER BRUNCH Join Us for Happy Hour Creative Cocktails Fine Dining Creative Cocktails : Delectable Dining Enjoy Regional Brunch Specials, Live Music, Bloody Mary and Mimosa Specials

CacheRestaurant | 425 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock | 501-850-0265 | cachelittlerock.com | CacheLittleRock Brunch served every Saturday and Sunday 10am - 2pm

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

GOOD EATS

Some of our favorite dining establishments. Benihana is famous for its atmosphere, service, food quality, outstanding chefs and overall dining experience. Located just three blocks from Simmons Bank 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

322 Rock Street • 501.244.0044

Monday—Thursday 4-11PM | Friday—Saturday, 4PM-12AM Sunday - Thursday 4:00pm to 11:00pm (501) 244-0044 | 322 Rock Street in Little Rock

Friday & Saturday 5:00pm to Midnight

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.

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

Come taste the history! Winner of 2023 Arkansas Times Readers Choice Award for Best Italian 424 West Markham Street, Little Rock 501-372-4371 • www.doubletreelr.com

310 Main St., Downtown Little Rock Tues-Sat 5pm-9 pm•Closed Sun & Mon•(501) 37BRUNO {372-7866}

1st come, 1st served.

Sorry, no reservations, catering or delivery. Offering one of the most urbane, contemporary dining experiences in Little Rock - Cache is truly unique. With no detail left unattended, the chefs and culinary team create complex, flavorful food and drink that is simply delicious. Inspired by training and empowered with fine ingredients, every meal and every moment at Cache is one to be treasured. Lunch, dinner, or drinks over a good conversation on the patio...gather at Cache and create treasured memories that last a lifetime. Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm Mon-Fri Lunch 11am-2pm Mon-Sat Dinner 5-10pm Downstairs Bar Mon-Sat 4pm-last call Upstairs Bar Mon-Fri 4pm-last call Sat 5pm-last call 425 President Clinton Ave. Little Rock • 501-850-0265 cachelittlerock.com

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We offer complimentary shuttle to and from the restaurant from all downtown locations.

Your Neighborhood Destination...

We continue to enjoy offering a quality experience, with an emphasis on gathering local ingredients and interesting libations and wine to offer to our friends, neighbors, and travelers.

Mon–Sat: 7AM–8PM • Sunday: 9AM–3PM www.thecitysilo.com • (501) 298-8098 17701 Chenal Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72223

605 N. Beechwood • Little Rock • 501-603-0238 • ciaobacilr.com

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 • doeseatplacelr.com

New Orleans At Its Best! Award winning for over 41 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

GASTON’S FIRST CLASS RESTAURANT An award-winning restaurant! Our restaurant sits on the White River with amazing views and a quiet atmosphere, you are sure to have a wonderful time. Our chef, Rick Gollinger, has weekly specials that start on Thursday nights and last the entire weekend. Also, there is a buffet on Sundays that you do not want to miss. Open Sun thru Thurs 6:30am to 8pm. Closing at 9pm Fri & Sat. 1777 River Road | Lakeview, AR 870-431-5202 gastons@gastons.com gastons.com lat 36 20’ 55” n | long 92 33’ 25” w

La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant is pleased to be of service to you. We serve our authentic Mexican receipies with pleasure and pride. We hope that you enjoy your visit with us and that you will enjoy your food and our hospitality. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you. La Hacienda is open seven days a week. Don’t miss the specials on Wednesday and Thursday. Three locations serving Central Arkansas the Best Mexican Food: 3024 Cantrell Rd Little Rock, AR 72202 17401 I-30, Benton, AR 72015 3836 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71913 www.lahamex.com • www.lahaciendalittlerock.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

GOOD EATS

Continued from page 56 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. $-$$. 372-7707. LD daily. TABLE 28 Excellent fine dining with lots of creative flourishes. Branch out and try the crispy squid filet and quail bird lollipops. 1501 Merrill Drive. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 224-2828. D Mon.-Sat. TOASTED YOLK Enjoy a brunch-style menu, offering a wide variety of everyone’s favorite breakfast dishes and more. Spans from donuts and pancakes to reuben and fried chicken Sandwiches. Wide selection of beer, cocktails, and specialty drinks. 17406 Chenal Pkwy, LR 900-9655. $$-$$$ BL Daily. TOWN PUMP A fun and deep menu with savory burgers, good wings, great fries, cheese dip and plate lunches with karaoke and shuffleboard. 1321 Rebsamen Park Road. Full bar. $-$$. 663-9802. LD daily. TRIO’S Fresh, creative, satisfying menu for lunch and dinner. Exceptional menu with daily specials makes Trio’s a restaurant to go to regularly. Full Bar and the best desserts in town, all made in house. 221-3330. 8201 Cantrell Road, Suite 100 - enjoy the patio whenever the weather is nice. Full bar. $$-$$$. 221-3330. LD Mon.-Sat. TWO SISTERS CAFE American style café. Vegetarian and Vegan options. Yep it really is run by two sisters. Who know how to cook and it’s really good – desserts are included in the really good category. 3140 E. Kiehl Ave. Sherwood, AR 501.351.4289; 201 N. Izard St. Little Rock, AR 501.351.4289 No alcohol. $$. 819-0189. BLD Tue.-Sat. WALDO’S CHICKEN & BEER Hello chicken lovers– this place is for you! Waldo’s entire menu is made from scratch every morning–from their homemade sides to sauces and dressings! Choose your style of chicken: Southern fried or rotisserie style and enjoy a beer and the game on one of their dozens of tvs. 4221 Warden Rd, NLR. 313-2390. LD. Sun.-Sat. WHOLE HOG CAFE The pulled pork shoulder is a classic, the back ribs are worthy of their many blue ribbons and there’s a six-pack of sauces for every taste. A real find is the beef brisket, cooked the way Texans like it. Beer and wine. $$. 12111 W. Markham St., 907-6124; 2516 Cantrell Road, 664-5025; 4333 Warden Road, NLR, 753-9227. WRIGHTS BBQ Old school BBQ joint. They stick to the method of open flame, 100% wood fire, on a pit when smoking their meat. Includes pork, chicken, brisket, sausage, turkey, ribs, and more. $$-$$$ 1311 Rebsamen Park Road Little Rock, AR. LD Tues.-Sat.

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.. $$. 414-8433. LD Mon.-Sat. A.W. LIN’S ASIAN CUISINE Excellent pan-Asian fare with wonderful service. 17717 Chenal Parkway Ste. H101, and 309 Main St., Downtown. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 821-5398. LD daily. CHI’S ASIAN CAFE Serving Arkansas for 30 years, Chi’s is a staple. Enjoy their themed seating and great atmosphere to go along with their large and diverse Asian menu. 3421 Old Cantrell Rd, LR. $$. 916-9973. 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. $$. 663-8999. LD daily.

Where Tradition and Innovation Come To Dine Year after year Trio’s has welcomed our guests as part of our extended family. No wonder guests annually vote Trio’s best in Central Arkansas overall; and for catering, service, wine list, desserts and patio dining. Call on us to make your next party memorable in our Pavilion Room. Pavilion in the Park • 501-221-3330 • triosrestaurant.com 8201 Cantrell Road, Ste. 100, Little Rock Lunch Mon-Sat 11am-2pm, Dinner Mon-Sat 5pm-9pm Closed Sunday

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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 like these, baby. 2601 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar,. $$-$$$. 660-4100. L Mon.-Fri.; D daily. 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. $-$$. 562-1515. LD daily. MT. FUJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT The dean of Little Rock sushi bars offers a fabulous lunch special and great Monday night deals. 10301 Rodney Parham Road. Full bar. CC. $$-$$$. 227-6498. L Mon.-Sat.; D daily. PHO THANH MY Vietnamese food, noodles and pho with great vegetarian options. 302 N. Shackleford Road. No alcohol.

ROCK ‘N ROLL SUSHI Great sushi and a big variety of apps and salads to die for. And to live up to its name loud rock n’ roll is playing and several TV’s showing MTV style bands rocking. Great for solo lunches or big groups. Full Bar. Several locations – all highly recommended; 1224 Main Street downtown LR. Also on Chenal, South of Main, Benton and Conway. SUSHI CAFE Impressive, upscale sushi menu with other delectable house specialties like tuna tataki, fried soft-shell crab, and even grilled burgers and steak. 11211 Cantrell Road #120. Full bar. $$-$$$. 954-7866. L Mon.-Sat.; D daily. THREE FOLD NOODLES + DUMPLING CO. Traditional Chinese foods are made from scratch daily. Absolutely delish!! 611 S. Main Street downtown and 11525 Cantrell Road 500-2005. Beer & wine. $$-$$$. 372-1739. LD

EUROPEAN/OTHER ETHNIC

ARBELA Middle Eastern grill featuring gyros, hummus, tabbouleh, falafel, and chicken dishes served up fast. 323 Center St. No alcohol. 374-2633. L Mon.-Fri. FASSLER HALL German-style beer hall with sausages, big pretzels, schnitzel, and the like; try the duck fat fries. 311 E. Capitol Ave. Full bar. $$ 246-4757. LD daily; BR Sat.-Sun. LAYLA’S GYROS AND PIZZERIA Delicious Mediterranean fare — gyros, falafel, shawarma, kabobs, hummus and baba ganoush — that adds pizza to the menu without missing a step. 9501 N. Rodney Parham Road. No alcohol. $-$$. 227-7272. LD daily (closes at 5 p.m. Sun.).

DOE’S KNOWS LUNCH & DINNER. Lunch: Mon - Fri 11am-2pm • Dinner’s Cooking: Mon - Sat 5pm-9pm Closed Sunday FULL BAR & PRIVATE PARTY ROOM 1023 West Markham • Downtown Little Rock 501-376-1195 • www.doeseatplacelr.com

THE PANTRY WEST Warm, stylish eatery with a full bar, great wine list and service. Hearty Czech & German classics, plus burgers and flatbreads. Excellent fresh fish dishes, salads, deviled eggs and all with a Czech influence in other words – Just great food. Fun atmosphere – nighttime it’s happening. 11401 N. Rodney Parham. $$ 353-1875. LD THE PANTRY CREST In the hip Hillcrest area, this place has a loyal following of locals in the neighborhood. Lovely patio, the restaurant is inside an old traditional Hillcrest House. Similar food to The Pantry West. 722 N. Palm St. Full bar. $$. 725-4945. D Mon.-Sat. 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. $$. 227-9900. LD daily. TAJ MAHAL INDIAN KITCHEN Upscale and often spicy versions of traditional Indian dishes with an extensive menu and a weekend brunch buffet. 1520 Market St. Beer. $$$. 881-4796. LD daily. TAZIKI’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE Fast casual chain that offers gyros, grilled meats and veggies, hummus and pimento cheese. 3929 McCain Blvd. Suite G07B, North Little Rock; 12800 Chenal Pkwy, Little Rock; 8299 Cantrell Rd Little Rock. Beer and wine. $$. 225-1829. LD daily. YA YA’S EURO BISTRO Translating comfort food into beautiful cuisine, it’s great for date night, or for lunch, with soup, salads, and sandwiches. 17711 Chenal Pkwy. Full bar. $$-$$$. 821-1144. LD daily; BR Sun.

LITTLE ROCK’S MOST AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT 1619 REBSAMEN RD. 501.663.9734 • thefadedrose.com VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

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. $$-$$$. 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. $$-$$$. 664-2239. LD daily. GEORGE’S An extremely elevated yet relaxed atmosphere, offering a robust offering of Italian classics and some wildcard favorites that allow for George’s to be a very unique Italian experience. No takeout. 5510 Kavanaugh Blvd, LR. $$$ (no number) D Wed.-Mon. GRAFFITI’S The casually chic and ever-popular Italian-flavored Little Rock legend avoids the rut with daily specials and careful menu tinkering. 7811 Cantrell Road. Full bar. $$-$$$. 224-9079. D Mon.-Sat.

LA TERRAZA RUM & LOUNGE Delicious Venezuelan fare. The arepas, plantains and mojitos are especially good. 3000 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. $$-$$$. 251-8261. LD Tue.-Sat., L Sun.

salads hold their own against any pie. Plus great gelato in a multitude of flavors. 5600 Kavanaugh Blvd. Beer and wine. $$-$$$. 661-9292. LD daily.

MEXICAN/ LATIN AMERICAN

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.

BAJA GRILL Taco joint serving a unique Mexicali style menu with soups, salads, tacos, burritos and quesadillas. 5923 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. $-$$. 722-8920. LD Mon.-Sat.; BR Sat. CAMP TACO Funky, theme-heavy atmosphere and Mexican food by Lost Forty folks.Mexican Ramen is worth a try and if you can’t find your dream cocktail here, you aren’t looking. 822 E. 6th St. Full bar. 353-0884 LD daily.

SPECIALTY

THE BAGEL SHOP A pop up shop now with a permanent home. People are nuts about the bagels found here. Bagels, pastries, sandwiches, coffee. 1501 S. Main St. $-$$. 295-4457. BL Wed.-Sun.

MOCKINGBIRD 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. $$-$$$. 313-5413 LD Tue.-Sat.

BLUE SAIL COFFEE With locally roasted beans, this sleek cafe located inside the Little Rock Technology Park has a full-service coffee/espresso menu. 417 S. Main St. No alcohol. CC. $$-$$$. 375-8466. BLD Mon.-Sat.; LD Sun.

ELIELLA RISTORANTE Delicious authentic Mexican cuisine. The skirt steak house special and tacos stand out. 7700 Baseline Road, Ste. 800. Full bar. $-$$. 539-5355. LD daily.

COMMUNITY BAKERY This storied, often-packed 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.; 270 S. Shackleford Rd. No alcohol. $$$. 375-7105. BLD daily.

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

DEMPSEY BAKERY is a gluten free specialty bakery with bread, rolls, cookies, cakes, pies, buns, pizza crusts, cupcakes & more. But don’t miss out on their amazing soups, salads and sandwiches for lunch. 323 S Cross St, Ste B. No alcohol. $$. 501375-2257. BL Tues.-Sat.

PIZZA CAFE With unique sandwiches and salads, and thin, crunchy pizza, this venerable cafe is thick with cool atmosphere. Or get a take ‘n’ bake pizza to cook at home and feel like you were there. West Little Rock location is popular, festive. 1517 Rebsamen Park Road and 14710 Cantrell Road. Beer and wine. $-$$. 664-6133. LD daily. THE PIZZERIA This one time food truck now has a great, if somewhat ironic, home in a former gym. Specialties from the bar complement wood-fired pizza choices with fresh ingredients. Game room in back. 4910 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. $-$$. 5511388. D Mon.-Sun.; Sat.-Sun. BR. RADUNO BRICK OVEN & BARROOM Neapolitanstyle pizza joint with a thoughtful beer and cocktail menu featuring great salads, sandwiches and a pistachio cheesecake. One of the best Sunday brunch spots in town! 1318 S. Main St. Full bar. $$-$$$. 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. $$$-$$$$. 3763463. D Mon.-Sat. SAUCE(d) BAR AND OVEN Wood-fired Neapolitanstyle pizza, salads, sandwiches and burgers. 11121 N. Rodney Parham Road. Full bar. $-$$. 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. $-$$. 375-8466. LD daily. ZAZA FINE SALAD & WOOD OVEN PIZZA CO. There’s wood-oven pizza with gorgeous blistered crusts, but the tempting call-your-own-ingredient

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BRIAN CHILSON

IRIANA’S PIZZA Generous hand-tossed, New Yorkstyle pizza with unmatched zest. The grinders are great, particularly the Italian sausage; good salads, too. 201 E. Markham St. Beer and wine. $-$$. 3743656. LD Mon.-Sat.

Baja Grill 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. $$. 747-1414. LD daily. EL SUR Food truck fav turns into Main Street brick-and-mortar mainstay serving Honduran delicacies. Expect tacos, yes, and baleadas and arepas. No alcohol. 1214 Main St. 812-3066. $-$$ LD. Closed Tuesdays. TAQUERIA EL PALENQUE Excellent authentic Mexican food. Try the Al Pastor burrito. 9501 N. Rodney Parham Road. Beer.. $-$$. 312-0045. BLD Tue.-Sun. THE FOLD BOTANAS AND BAR Gourmet tacos and botanas, cheese dip (add bison!) and nachos. Try the cholula pescada taco. 3501 Old Cantrell Road. Full bar. $$-$$$. 916-9706. LD Tue.-Sun. HEIGHTS TACO & TAMALE CO. Throwback Southernstyle tamales, taco plates, enchiladas and more, all doused with a generous helping of cheese and chili. Hits just the right balance between nostalgia and fresh flavors. 5805 Kavanaugh Blvd. Full bar. $-$$. 313-4848. LD daily. LA HACIENDA Creative, fresh-tasting entrees and traditional favorites in a festive atmosphere. Great tacos salads, nachos, fajitas and cheese dip. 3024 Cantrell Road. Full bar. $-$$. 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. $. 569-9394. BLD daily.

DUST BOWL LANES & LOUNGE Grab a lane and then chow down on a burger or chili cheese dog or onion rings. Full bar with more than a few colorful cocktails. Or skip the alcohol and have a shake. 315 E Capitol Ave. $$. 353-0775. D Tues.-Sunday. HONEY PIES Fresh-baked pies like chocolate peanut butter pie and peach pie, plus cookies, brownies, sandwiches, salads and a soup of the day. 315 N Bowman Road, #14. No alcohol. CC. $-$$. 6137950. BLD daily. HURTS DONUT All the excessive donut flavors you can imagine — Oreo cheesecake, blueberry streusel, Fruity Pebbles — alongside huge cinnamon rolls and maple bacon bars, served all day and all night long. 107 E. Markham St. No alcohol. $$. 916-9201. BLD daily. LE POPS GOURMET ICE LOLLIES Frozen popsicles with tasty flavors. 5501 Kavanaugh Blvd. No alcohol. $$. 313-9558. LD Tue.-Sun. LOBLOLLY CREAMERY Enjoy artisan ice cream, hand-crafted beverages and seasonal confections using local ingredients. 1423 S. Main St. No alcohol. $$-$$$. 503-5164. LD daily. NEXUS COFFEE & CREATIVE Cold drinks and tea, coffees, bagels and sandwiches. 301B President Clinton Ave. $$. 295-7515. BLD daily.

COMING SOON TO BRECKENRIDGE VILLAGE: (at time of press, were not yet open) DELUCA’S PIZZERIA NEVERWHERE COFEE, COMICS & ODDITIES EAT MY CATFISH MT. FUJI WALDO’S CHICKEN & BEER THE ROOT FLYWAY TAPROOM

PLAN YOUR VISIT The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts is a stunning work of architecture The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts is a stunning work of architecture with and performing performingarts artsexperiences. experiences. withaaunique unique blend blend of of visual visual and

ADMISSION IS ALWAYS FREE. TUESDAY - SATURDAY, 10AM TO 8 PM / SUNDAY, 12 TO 5 PM ADMISSION IS ALWAYS FREE. TUESDAY - SATURDAY, 10AM TO 8 PM / SUNDAY, 12 TO 5 PM

Image: Iwan Baan Image: Iwan Baan

VISITORS GUIDE • 2024

6 4 VISITORS GUIDE • 2024