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 ★ 4.6 Lindsey’s Hospitality House & Barbecue
North Little Rock
"Arrive early during lunch hours to ensure the best select..."
Smoked Brisket Platter
Baby Back Ribs
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 The Pantry Crest
Little Rock
"Arrive early for dinner service on weekends, as the resta..."
Southern Fried Chicken Platter
Slow-Cooked Pot Roast
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 Taj Mahal India Kitchen – Conway
Conway
"Call ahead on weekends as the kitchen sometimes runs out ..."
Chicken Tikka Masala
Lamb Biryani
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 Cross Creek Sandwich Shop
Conway
"Visit during weekday lunch hours to catch their daily sou..."
Cross Creek Club Sandwich
Beer-Battered Fish Po'boy
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 David’s Burgers
Hot Springs
"Order the fries extra crispy and don't skip the milkshake..."
David's Burger with Cheese
Hand-Cut French Fries
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 Lost Creek Grill
Hot Springs
"Visit during weeknight hours for the most relaxed dining ..."
BBQ Ribs
Blackened Catfish
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Local Favorite ★ 4.6 The Bugler
Hot Springs
"Visit on Sunday afternoons when they serve their famous b..."
Slow-Smoked BBQ Ribs
Chicken and Dumplings
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Local Favorite ★ 4.5 Verona Italian Restaurant
Benton
"Make reservations for Friday and Saturday nights, as this..."
House-made Spinach Ricotta Ravioli
Wood-fired Margherita Pizza
+1 more
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Hidden Gem ★ 4.5 Buenos Aires Grill and Cafe
Little Rock
"Try the chimichurri sauce on everything - it's made fresh..."
Grilled Asado Steak
Beef Empanadas
+1 more
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Hidden Gem ★ 4.5 Layla’s Market
Little Rock
"Visit during weekday afternoons for the quietest atmosphe..."
Lamb Shawarma with Tzatziki
Mediterranean Grain Bowl
+1 more
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Hidden Gem ★ 4.5 Pho Huyen
Conway
"Visit during lunch hours for the freshest broth, and don'..."
Pho Bo (Beef Pho)
Banh Mi Sandwiches
+1 more
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Modern Setting ★ 4.5 Draft + Table Argenta
North Little Rock
"Visit during happy hour for discounted craft beer flights..."
Craft Beer Braised Short Ribs
Truffle Mac & Cheese
+1 more
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