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.
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
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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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Local Favorite ★ 4.5 Cypress Social
North Little Rock
"Make reservations for weekend evenings, as the restaurant..."
Wood-Fired Margherita Pizza
Braised Short Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.5 Bubba’s Catfish-2-Go
Hot Springs
"Call ahead during peak dinner hours to minimize wait time..."
Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish Fillets
Catfish and Shrimp Combo
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.5 Kebab House
Little Rock
"Order the mixed grill to sample multiple meats, and don't..."
Lamb Kebab Platter
Chicken Gyro
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.5 BREW YAYA Coffee + Roaster
Cabot
"Visit on roasting days to experience the fresh aromas and..."
Single-Origin Pour-Over
House Special Latte
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.5 Rivera Italian Restaurant
North Little Rock
"Make a reservation for weekend evenings, as the cozy dini..."
Chicken Parmigiana
Wood-Fired Margherita Pizza
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.5 O’Malley’s Irish Grill
Conway
"Visit on Thursday evenings when they often feature live t..."
Shepherd's Pie
Fish and Chips
+1 more
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Family Friendly ★ 4.5 Al Seraj Mediterranean Restaurant & Market
Little Rock
"Visit the market section after dinner to pick up authenti..."
Lamb Kabobs
Fresh Hummus with Pita
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.5 La Bodeguita
Hot Springs
"Visit on weeknight evenings for the most relaxed atmosphe..."
Ropa Vieja
Lechón Asado
+1 more
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