Best Southern Restaurants in Little Rock, AR (2026)
Little Rock’s Southern restaurants celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage with dishes passed down through generations. From crispy fried chicken and slow-cooked collard greens to flaky buttermilk biscuits and rich banana pudding, Central Arkansas serves up authentic Southern comfort food that warms the soul. Local kitchens honor traditional recipes while sometimes adding modern twists, but always keeping that unmistakable Southern hospitality at the heart of every meal. Pull up a chair and taste why Southern cooking remains America’s most beloved comfort cuisine.
Local Favorite ★ 4.6 Holly’s Country Cooking
Conway
"Arrive early on weekends as the restaurant fills up quick..."
Fried Chicken with Biscuits and Gravy
Slow-Cooked Pot Roast
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 Mama Vee’s
Hot Springs
"Arrive early on Sunday afternoons to avoid the post-churc..."
Fried Chicken with Sides
BBQ Ribs Platter
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.3 Red Oak Fillin’ Station
Hot Springs
"Visit during weekday lunch hours to avoid the dinner rush..."
Fillin' Station Burger
Hand-Battered Chicken Tenders
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.0 Blue Heaven
Benton
"Visit during weekday lunch hours for shorter wait times a..."
Southern Fried Chicken
BBQ Pork Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.9 Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken – Little Rock
Little Rock
"Order the mild version first if visitors are unsure about..."
World Famous Fried Chicken
Chicken Tenders with Hot Sauce
+1 more
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Family Friendly ★ 3.9 Chicken Salad Chick
CONWAY
"Try the chicken salad sampler to taste multiple flavors i..."
Chicken Salad Chick Special
Fancy Nancy
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.9 R & M Southern Eatery
Conway
"Visit during weekday lunch hours to avoid the dinner rush..."
Fried Chicken with Biscuits
Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese
+1 more
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Family Friendly ★ 3.9 Rise & Dine Cafe
Hot Springs
"Arrive before 10 AM on weekends to avoid the brunch rush,..."
Stuffed French Toast
Loaded Breakfast Skillet
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 3.5 The Patio Cafe
Conway
"Request a table on the far end of the patio for the most ..."
Blackened Catfish with Creole Remoulade
Bourbon Glazed Short Ribs
+1 more
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