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 ★ 4.5 Hog Pen Bar-B-Q
Conway
"Arrive before noon on weekends to avoid the rush and ensu..."
Hickory Smoked Ribs
Pulled Pork Sandwich
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Local Favorite ★ 4.5 Golden Raised Donuts
Hot Springs
"Visit early in the morning for the best selection, as pop..."
Classic Glazed Donuts
Boston Cream Filled
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Wright’s Barbecue
Little Rock
"Arrive before noon on weekends to ensure they haven't sol..."
Smoked Beef Brisket
Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Portofino Italian Restaurant
Conway
"Make reservations for weekend evenings, especially during..."
Veal Piccata
Fettuccine Alfredo
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Ambrosia Bakery
Hot Springs
"Arrive before 9 AM on weekends to snag the best selection..."
Almond Croissant
Quiche Lorraine
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Romantic Spot ★ 4.4 Luna Bella
Hot Springs
"Make reservations for weekend evenings, as the intimate d..."
House-made Ravioli
Wood-fired Margherita Pizza
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Taqueria El Palenque
Little Rock
"Visit during lunch hours for the freshest tortillas, as t..."
Carnitas Tacos
Al Pastor
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Historic Building ★ 4.4 Hot Springs Bathhouse Dinner Theatre
Hot Springs
"Book tickets well in advance for popular shows and reques..."
Prime Rib Dinner
Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Kiyen’s KamiKaito
North Little Rock
"Visit during lunch hours for the same quality dishes at l..."
Dragon Roll
Tonkotsu Ramen
+1 more
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Upscale Dining ★ 4.4 North Bar
North Little Rock
"Make reservations for weekend evenings, and don't miss th..."
Braised Short Ribs
Pan-Seared Salmon
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Pho 88
Sherwood
"Visit during lunch hours for the freshest broth, and don'..."
Pho Tai (Rare Beef Pho)
Grilled Pork Vermicelli Bowl
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Upscale Dining ★ 4.4 Allsopp & Chapple Restaurant + Bar
Little Rock
"Make reservations well in advance for weekend evenings, a..."
Pan-Seared Duck Breast
Arkansas Beef Tenderloin
+1 more
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