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.
Cozy Atmosphere ★ 4.6 Milford Track
Little Rock
"Make reservations for weekend evenings, as the intimate d..."
Wood-Fired Ribeye with Herb Butter
Arkansas Trout with Brown Butter
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 David’s Burgers
Conway
"Order the fries extra crispy for the perfect golden crunc..."
Classic Cheeseburger
Hand-Cut Fries
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 Salem Dairy Bar
Benton
"Visit on weekday afternoons for the freshest ice cream fl..."
Hand-Dipped Ice Cream
Classic Cheeseburger
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 Pea Farm Bistro
Cabot
"Visit during weeknight dinner hours to avoid weekend crow..."
Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Honey Drizzle
Pan-Seared Arkansas Trout with Field Pea Succotash
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 India Cafe
Bryant
"Ask your server about spice levels before ordering, and d..."
Chicken Tikka Masala
Lamb Biryani
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 Best Cafe & Bar
Hot Springs
"Visit during weekday lunch hours for the quickest service..."
Classic Cheeseburger with Hand-Cut Fries
Grilled Chicken Club Sandwich
+1 more
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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
+1 more
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Family Friendly ★ 4.6 Xen Thai and Ramen
Conway
"Visit during lunch hours for smaller portion options that..."
Tonkotsu Ramen
Pad Thai
+1 more
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Hidden Gem ★ 4.6 EL K’iche
Conway
"Ask your server about the daily specials, which often fea..."
Pepián de Pollo
Carne Asada with Handmade Tortillas
+1 more
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Hidden Gem ★ 4.6 The Goat Mediterranean Grill
Hot Springs
"Visit during weekday lunch hours for smaller crowds and f..."
Lamb Gyro Platter
Mediterranean Moussaka
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 Cafe Mi Amor
Hot Springs
"Visit on weekends when they often feature live mariachi m..."
Carnitas Plate
Homemade Tamales
+1 more
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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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