Little Rock, Arkansas, might not always be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about incredible dining experiences. However, tucked away in various corners of this charming city are some truly remarkable restaurants that deserve much more attention. These hidden gem eateries offer diverse culinary delights, ranging from authentic Mexican flavors to soul-food pleasures. Let’s delve into the list of Little Rock’s underrated restaurants that you absolutely must try.
Taqueria el palenque : a hidden mexican delight
Located inconspicuously on Rodney Parham Road, Taqueria El Palenque is one of Little Rock’s best-kept secrets. This charming taqueria might be easy to miss as it’s nestled in a small strip partially concealed by a grocery store. But once inside, culinary treasures await.
The menu is an ode to Mexican cuisine with standout dishes like chicken nachos, shrimp burritos, enchiladas verdes, and a variety of tacos that will make your tastebuds dance. The ambiance is unpretentious, inviting diners to focus solely on the vibrant flavors of the food.
Don’t hesitate to explore the entire menu, as each item promises a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you dine in or take away, Taqueria El Palenque is undeniably a hidden gem in Little Rock.
The mediterranean highlight : the terrace
On the ground floor of a West Little Rock office building sits The Terrace, a Mediterranean restaurant that locals often describe as their well-guarded secret. The Terrace offers an array of Mediterranean dishes that would satisfy even the most discerning palate.
Start your meal with the delightful “Kitchen Sampler,” which provides a generous helping of hummus, tabouleh, and babaghanouj. Each dish is freshly prepared and bursting with authentic flavors. For mains, you can’t go wrong with the Citron Chicken, Veal Terrace, or the classic moussaka.
The Terrace’s decor is as elegant as its food, providing a relaxed atmosphere perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.
Brewster’s 2 café : southern comfort at its best
For those in search of authentic southern comfort food, Brewster’s 2 Café on Arch Street is a must-visit. This cozy establishment is renowned for its fried catfish, arguably the best in Little Rock. The fried pork chop sandwich, a crowd favorite, is another must-try.
Brewster’s also serves a variety of soul food sides like yams and collard greens, which complement their main dishes beautifully. Their cheeseburgers, too, are a thing of legend, consistently praised for their juicy, flavorful patties.
This eatery’s homely, dimly lit interior provides the perfect setting to enjoy a hearty meal in peace and quiet.
America’s street food : surprising delights in a gas station
At America’s Street Food, located inside the Highway 10 Gas & Market, you’ll experience delicious surprises. Chef Robert Scott takes pride in turning a gas station eatery into a gourmet destination. While it might sound unconventional, the food here is anything but ordinary.
The cheeseburger here is a standout, often requiring several napkins to clean up after devouring. The wings with house-made BBQ sauce are a must-order, bursting with flavor in every bite. Breakfast items are also worth exploring, making this spot suitable for any time of day.
Don’t let the location fool you; America’s Street Food offers an unforgettable culinary experience.
Further hidden treasures in little rock
Beyond the aforementioned gems, Little Rock boasts even more underrated spots that promise exceptional dining experiences.
Kebab house on markham street
Kebab House offers some of the best falafel in Little Rock. This nondescript eatery provides a variety of Middle Eastern specialties, each more delicious than the last. The Adana Kebab Wrap and chicken shawarma are crowd-pleasers, ensuring a mouth-watering meal every time.
The ambiance is simple and welcoming, making it a great spot for casual dining or quick bites.
Lazy pete’s : wings and rings excellence
Lazy Pete’s is a no-frills eatery known for its excellent chicken wings and onion rings. The lemon garlic wings are highly recommended, but for those seeking healthier options, the grilled shrimp tacos are equally satisfying.
Located on the west side of town, Lazy Pete’s is beloved by those who’ve experienced its flavorful offerings. It’s a perfect spot for a chill, laid-back meal.
Milford track : the ultimate underground eatery
Hidden within a business park on Executive Center Drive, Milford Track is a true hidden gem. The basement deli might be hard to locate initially, but the search is well worth it. Milford Track specializes in made-to-order pasta dishes and a variety of delectable sandwiches.
The cozy underground setting adds to the charm, providing an intimate dining experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Too sweet bar and grill
Too Sweet Bar and Grill shares similarities with Brewster’s 2 Café. Known for its top-notch burgers, Too Sweet also offers an “anytime” breakfast that features an egg sandwich with scrambled eggs, melted American cheese, and bacon. The ambiance and menu items channel the essence of home-cooked goodness.
Located in a comfortable setting, it serves as a reliable spot for any meal of the day, from breakfast to dinner.
Rosie’s pot & kettle café
Last but certainly not least, Rosie’s Pot & Kettle Café at the eastern edge of downtown offers a welcoming environment for both breakfast and lunch. Owned and operated by a dedicated group of female servers, Rosie’s specializes in classic dishes like BLTs, club sandwiches, and grilled cheese.
The daily plate lunch specials bring in a loyal crowd, and the breakfast options, including biscuits and gravy, hotcakes, and omelets, are a great way to start any day.
From its friendly service to its hearty meals, Rosie’s Pot & Kettle Café epitomizes the warmth and charm of downhome dining.
| Restaurant | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Taqueria El Palenque | Mexican Cuisine | Rodney Parham Road |
| The Terrace | Mediterranean | West Little Rock |
| Brewster’s 2 Café | Southern Comfort | Arch Street |
| America’s Street Food | American | Highway 10 Gas & Market |
| Kebab House | Middle Eastern | Markham Street |
| Lazy Pete’s | Wings & Rings | West Little Rock |
| Milford Track | Pasta & Sandwiches | Executive Center Drive |
| Too Sweet Bar and Grill | Burgers & Breakfast | Central Little Rock |
| Rosie’s Pot & Kettle Café | Breakfast & Lunch | Eastern Downtown |
My goal is to become a foreign correspondant and I'm currently learning Russian.