Best Local Favorite Restaurants in Little Rock, AR (2026)
These Little Rock restaurants have earned devoted followings among Arkansas locals who return again and again. Word-of-mouth favorites where regulars are greeted by name, the food is consistently excellent, and the atmosphere feels like home. When locals recommend a spot to visitors, these are the places they mention first.
Local Favorite ★ 4.3 Via Roma Italian Restaurant
Hot Springs
"Make a reservation for Friday and Saturday nights, as thi..."
Homemade Lasagna
Chicken Parmigiana
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.3 Smokin’ Buns BBQ
Jacksonville
"Arrive before the dinner rush to ensure they haven't run ..."
Smoked Brisket Platter
Baby Back Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.3 The Original Burgers N More
Hot Springs
"Visit during off-peak hours for the freshest fries and th..."
Original Cheeseburger
Hand-Cut French Fries
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.2 BubbaLu’s
Hot Springs
"Visit on Wednesday nights for their special cornbread ser..."
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Slow-Smoked BBQ Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.2 Alley Oops
Little Rock
"Visit during happy hour on weekdays for discounted appeti..."
Oops Burger
Chicken and Waffles
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.2 Hideaway Pizza
North Little Rock
"Order the fried mushrooms as an appetizer to share - they..."
Hideaway Special Pizza
Fried Pie
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.2 Aji Ramen Bar
Little Rock
"Visit during weekday lunch hours to avoid evening crowds ..."
Tonkotsu Ramen
Miso Ramen
+1 more
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Family Friendly ★ 4.2 Tacos 4 Life
Conway
"Download their app to track how many meals your visits ha..."
Popular Pig Carnitas Tacos
Holy Mole Chicken Tacos
+1 more
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Upscale Dining ★ 4.2 501 prime
Hot Springs
"Make reservations well in advance for weekend dinners, an..."
Bone-in Ribeye
Lobster Tail & Filet Surf and Turf
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.2 King Kone
Hot Springs
"Visit during weekday afternoons to avoid the after-school..."
Hand-Dipped Milkshakes
Classic Cheeseburger
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.2 Hokkaido Ramen House
Hot Springs
"Visit during lunch hours for smaller portions at lower pr..."
Tonkotsu Ramen
Spicy Miso Ramen
+1 more
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Hidden Gem ★ 4.2 Dizzy’s Gypsy Bistro
Little Rock
"Make reservations for the small alcove tables near the fi..."
Lamb Tagine with Preserved Lemons
Wild Mushroom Gnocchi
+1 more
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