Little Rock’s dining scene proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to eat incredibly well. From authentic Vietnamese pho bowls under $10 to smoky barbecue platters that feed a family, the city’s budget-friendly restaurants deliver serious flavor without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re craving crispy fried chicken, fresh tacos, or surprisingly good vegan comfort food, these wallet-friendly spots have earned their reputation through consistent quality and generous portions. We’ve scoured the city to find restaurants where you can enjoy a satisfying meal for under $15 per person, proving that great food and great value can absolutely go hand in hand in Little Rock.
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Quick Comparison
| Restaurant | Rating | Price | Best For | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Ye Paul’s Soul Bodega & Grill | 4.9 | $ | Best Value |
 | MeMe’s Twisted Potato | 4.8 | $$ | Vegan Options |
 | Smoke Shack Bar-B-Q | 4.5 | $ | BBQ Lovers |
 | Certified Pies | 4.2 | $ | Pizza Night |
 | Taqueria Guadalajara | 4.1 | $ | Street Tacos |
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The Complete List
For a deeper dive, here are the full profiles, insider tips, and signature dishes for all 10 of Little Rock’s best budget friendly restaurants.
MeMe’s Twisted Potato
This vegan powerhouse proves plant-based comfort food can be both satisfying and affordable. Their creative takes on classic dishes like the Cheese-Hamburger have converted even the most skeptical meat-eaters, while their famous Tators offer crispy perfection in every bite.
Ye Paul’s Soul Bodega & Grill
With nearly perfect ratings and rock-bottom prices, this local favorite delivers soul food excellence without breaking the bank. Their Burgers are juicy and generously sized, while the Chicken Wings have developed a cult following among locals who know quality when they taste it.
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken – Little Rock
This nationally recognized chain brings authentic Southern fried chicken to downtown Little Rock at prices that won’t hurt your wallet. Their Fried Chicken arrives piping hot with a perfect crispy coating, while the Biscuits and Coleslaw complete the classic Southern experience.
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Smoke Shack Bar-B-Q
This North Little Rock gem serves up authentic Arkansas barbecue at unbeatable prices. Their Ribs fall off the bone, the Brisket is smoky perfection, and locals rave about their amazing Sausage that’s packed with flavor.
Pho Thanh My
For authentic Vietnamese cuisine at incredibly affordable prices, this Shackleford Road spot delivers steaming bowls of comfort. Their Pho is aromatic and satisfying, while the BΓΊn BΓ² HuαΊΏ offers a spicier alternative for adventurous diners.
Tacos 4 Life
This socially conscious taco shop combines great food with a great cause – every meal purchased provides meals to those in need. Their Chicken Tacos are consistently good, while the Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp Tacos offer an upscale twist at reasonable prices.
Taqueria Guadalajara
This authentic taqueria serves up some of the best street tacos in the area at incredibly low prices. Their Carnitas and Al Pastor are prepared with traditional techniques, creating flavors that transport you straight to Mexico.
Mr. Cheng’s
This legit Chinese restaurant has earned a loyal following for consistently good food and friendly service. Their General Tso’s Chicken hits all the right notes, while classics like Beef and Broccoli are executed with care and attention to detail.
Certified Pies
This local pizza favorite combines quality ingredients with reasonable prices and creative flavor combinations. Their Wings are consistently praised by regulars, while their Pizza offers both classic and innovative options that keep customers coming back.
Sim’s Bar-B Que
This Broadway barbecue institution serves up superb smoked meats with a vinegar-based sauce that brings out the natural flavors. Their Chopped Beef Sandwich is legendary among locals, while sides like beans and greens complete the authentic barbecue experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Based on our research, Ye Paul’s Soul Bodega & Grill takes the top spot with a 4.9/5 rating and $ pricing. Their burgers and chicken wings offer exceptional value and quality that keeps locals coming back.
For budget-friendly options under $10, try Pho Thanh My for authentic Vietnamese pho, Taqueria Guadalajara for street tacos, or Ye Paul’s Soul Bodega & Grill for hearty burgers and wings.
For celebrations on a budget, MeMe’s Twisted Potato offers unique vegan comfort food that’s perfect for adventurous diners, while Tacos 4 Life combines good food with social impact, making your meal meaningful as well as delicious.
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Final Thoughts
Little Rock’s budget-friendly dining scene proves that great food doesn’t require a big budget. From authentic Vietnamese pho to smoky barbecue and creative vegan dishes, these 10 restaurants deliver exceptional value without compromising on flavor or quality.
