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 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
+1 more
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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
+1 more
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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
+1 more
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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
+1 more
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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
+1 more
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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
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.3 David’s Burgers
Conway
"Visit during weekday lunch hours to avoid the dinner rush..."
David's Classic Burger
Hand-Cut French Fries
+1 more
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Local Favorite ★ 4.3 Kemuri
Little Rock
"Visit during weeknight dinner hours to avoid weekend crow..."
Miso-Glazed Brisket
Yakitori-Style Pork Belly
+1 more
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Hidden Gem ★ 4.3 Taj Mahal Indian Kitchen
Little Rock
"Order the garlic naan instead of regular – it's baked f..."
Butter Chicken
Lamb Biryani
+1 more
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