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 ★ 4.4 Quetzal Authentic Mexican Cuisine
Hot Springs
"Visit on weekends when they offer traditional Mexican bre..."
Cochinita Pibil
Chiles en Nogada
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Frosty Treat
Hot Springs
"Visit during weekday afternoons to avoid the dinner rush ..."
Banana Split
Chili Cheese Dog
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Red Snapper Fish & Chicken
Hot Springs
"Call ahead during dinner rush to minimize wait times, esp..."
Fried Red Snapper
Crispy Fried Chicken
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Whole Hog Cafe NLR
North Little Rock
"Arrive during lunch hours for the freshest cuts, as the m..."
Whole Hog Pulled Pork
Dry-Rubbed Ribs
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 The Original ScoopDog
North Little Rock
"Visit during weekday afternoons to avoid the dinner rush ..."
The Arkansas Heat Dog
Loaded Cheese Fries
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 The Root Cafe
Little Rock
"Visit during weekday lunch hours to avoid the weekend bru..."
Farm Fresh Breakfast Skillet
Seasonal Grain Bowl
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Brina Thai & Pho Restaurant
Hot Springs
"Visit during lunch hours for the freshest pho broth, as t..."
Traditional Pho Bo
Green Curry with Chicken
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Kollective Coffee + Tea
Hot Springs
"Visit during mid-morning hours for the best selection of ..."
Cold Brew Flight
Lavender Honey Latte
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Baja Grill
Benton
"Visit during happy hour for discounted margaritas and app..."
Beer-Battered Fish Tacos
Carne Asada Fajitas
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Ciao Baci
Little Rock
"Make reservations for weekend dinners, as this cozy spot ..."
Homemade Lasagna
Margherita Pizza
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.4 Blue Ember Smokehouse
Hot Springs
"Arrive before 6 PM on weekends to avoid the dinner rush, ..."
Smoked Brisket Platter
Baby Back Ribs
+1 more
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Upscale Dining ★ 4.4 One Eleven At The Capital
Little Rock
"Make reservations well in advance for weekend evenings, a..."
Prime Ribeye Steak
Pan-Seared Salmon
+1 more
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