Get Global Flavor at These Little Rock Restaurants
In Little Rock, food is not a side dish. It's the main event. That is why Forbes Travel Guide crowned it a “Top 5 Secret Foodie City,” Southern Living urged food lovers to eat here now, and the Foodie Flashpacker declared it America’s Next Hottest Foodie City. From sizzling taquerias and fragrant noodle houses to authentic soul food kitchens and cozy cafés, Little Rock brings global flavors together in a way that is as diverse as the city itself.
Here’s a secret even some locals may not know: Little Rock is home to a thriving international dining scene. Tucked away beyond downtown, many of these restaurants are run by first-generation immigrants who have brought their family traditions, recipes, and bold flavors to the capital city. They may be a little off the beaten path, but the dishes you will discover are more than worth the trip.
Asian Flavors
Little Rock’s Asian dining scene is both wide-ranging and deeply rooted in local favorites.
- Three Fold Noodles & Dumpling Co. is a downtown staple, serving up fresh dumplings, hand-pulled noodles, and steamed buns that balance comfort with modern flair.
- Kemuri blends Japanese and Southern influences in a way that surprises and delights — think sushi rolls alongside smoked meats.
- Mike’s Café is a no-frills Vietnamese treasure, beloved for steaming bowls of pho and generous plates of vermicelli that taste like home cooking.
Indian Flavors
Fragrant spices and rich curries make Little Rock’s Indian restaurants some of the city’s most comforting dining destinations.
- Star of India is one of the city’s longest-standing favorites, known for its warm hospitality and legendary lunch buffet.
- Taj Mahal offers an array of traditional dishes, each prepared with attention to detail and bold flavor.
- Curry House Indian Kitchen rounds out the mix with hearty portions and flavorful takes on Indian classics that keep guests coming back.
Latin American & Mexican Flavors
From sizzling tacos to Brazilian bites, Little Rock’s Latin food scene is packed with personality.
- Taqueria El Palenque is a go-to for authentic tacos and burritos that locals swear by.
- Café Bossa Nova brings the flavors of Brazil to the city, with dishes that feel equal parts comforting and vibrant.
- El Sur Street Food Co. elevates Honduran street food with pupusas, baleadas, and more that have quickly become neighborhood favorites.
Mediterranean & Caribbean Flavors
From shawarma to gyros to jerk chicken, these restaurants bring a taste of the Mediterranean and Caribbean right to Little Rock.
- Layla’s Gyros & Pizzeria is a longtime favorite for fresh Mediterranean flavors, from falafel to shawarma plates.
- Leo’s Greek Castle is a local institution, serving hearty gyros and Greek comfort food in a casual, welcoming setting.
- Yeh Mon brings island flair to the table with Jamaican specialties like jerk chicken, oxtail, and curry goat that pack big flavor.
African Flavors
African cuisine in Little Rock is a delicious hidden gem, offering bold spices and authentic dishes that showcase global tradition.
- Kontiki African Restaurant specializes in West African flavors, with dishes like jollof rice, stews, and grilled meats that are rich in taste and culture.
Italian Flavors
Little Rock’s Italian dining scene blends classic comfort with modern style, offering everything from old-school pasta to inventive pizzas.
- George’s Little Rock is a cozy favorite for house-made pastas and traditional Italian dishes.
- Milano’s Italian Grill serves generous portions of homestyle classics, perfect for family dinners and hearty appetites.
- Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom offers a modern twist with wood-fired pizzas, creative small plates, and a lively atmosphere.
After eating your way around the globe in Little Rock, you may need a breather. Turn your foodie adventure into a full getaway with a stay at one of the city’s inviting hotels. Walk off those big meals along the Arkansas River Trail or take in sweeping views at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. In Little Rock, every flavor comes with an experience, and every visit is a chance to discover something new.
