Little Rock, Arkansas, with its charming Southern hospitality and rich history, also boasts a delightful culinary scene filled with family-owned restaurants.
These eateries serve up dishes packed with tradition, flavor, and love, guaranteeing a memorable dining experience. Here are the five best family-owned restaurants in Little Rock that you absolutely must try.
Bruno’s Little Italy
Bruno’s Little Italy brings authentic, old-world Italian flavors to Little Rock with a history dating back to 1949.
Start with the Antipasto Plate, featuring an assortment of Italian meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables, perfect for sharing.
Their Spaghetti Carbonara, a creamy pasta dish made with pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese, is a comforting and delicious entrée.
End with the Cannoli, crisp pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips, providing a classic Italian dessert.
Doe’s Eat Place
Doe’s Eat Place, a beloved local legend since 1988, offers hearty Southern fare and legendary steaks in a laid-back, no-frills atmosphere.
Begin with the Hot Tamales, spicy and savory tamales served with a side of chili for dipping, offering a true taste of the South.
Their Porterhouse Steak, perfectly cooked and seasoned, served with a baked potato and salad, is a must-try for steak lovers.
Don’t miss the Homemade Pecan Pie for dessert, a sweet and nutty treat that embodies Southern indulgence.
The Root Café
The Root Café focuses on locally sourced ingredients and farm-to-table fare, creating a vibrant, community-centered dining experience.
Start with the Pimento Cheese Sandwich, made with house-made pimento cheese spread on freshly baked bread, served with pickles and chips.
Their Sweet Potato Pancakes, fluffy pancakes made with locally grown sweet potatoes, topped with pecans and warm syrup, are a popular brunch item.
End with the Seasonal Fruit Pie, featuring fresh, locally sourced fruits, encased in a buttery, flaky crust, served with a scoop of homemade ice cream.
Sim’s Bar-B-Que
Sim’s Bar-B-Que has been serving up mouthwatering, smoky barbecue since 1937, becoming a staple for locals craving authentic Southern flavors.
Begin with the Ribs, tender and smoky ribs slathered in Sim’s signature barbecue sauce, offering a savory and satisfying start.
Their Pulled Pork Sandwich, piled high with juicy, seasoned pork and topped with coleslaw, is a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Finish with a slice of Sweet Potato Pie, creamy and spiced to perfection, offering a sweet end to your barbecue feast.
La Terraza Rum & Lounge
La Terraza Rum & Lounge brings vibrant Venezuelan cuisine and a lively atmosphere to Little Rock, combining tradition and modern culinary flair.
Start with the Arepas, traditional Venezuelan cornmeal cakes filled with a variety of ingredients like cheese, avocado, and shredded beef.
Their Pabellon Criollo, heartily featuring shredded beef, black beans, rice, and sweet plantains, is a signature dish bursting with bold flavors.
Don’t miss the Tres Leches Cake for dessert, a rich, sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk and topped with whipped cream, for a decadent finish.
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