Get to Know Little Rock's LGBTQ+-Owned and Operated Businesses
Little Rock's greatest strength has always been its residents, and the city we know and love has been immeasurably shaped by its diverse population, including our LGBTQ+ community. This Pride Month, we're highlighting some of the LGBTQ-owned and operated businesses that make Little Rock the fantastic city that it is. We want to recognize the integral role these businesses play in our community and celebrate their contributions to Little Rock.
Raduno
When it comes to pizza, it's hard to beat this South Main Street staple. Raduno is where locals head for Italian-inspired fare that ranges from mouthwatering sandwiches to decadent, handmade pasta (seriously, we can't get enough of the fettuccine alfredo). Chef Cash Ashley is the one leading the kitchen, and his best-in-town cinnamon rolls are a rare (but incredible) brunch treat. To top it off, the ever-changing beer and cocktails menus are just as good as the food.
El Sur Street Food Co.
If you're unsure of precisely what Honduran cuisine is, the husband and husband team of Luis Vasquez and Darren Strayhorn of the El Sur food truck are here to enlighten you. Locals love it for its flavorful baleadas (trust us, get them con todo) and arepas. Be sure to check their social media feeds for their day-to-day locations and say "hello" to your new favorite farm-to-table food truck
The Pizzeria
In Little Rock, each part of town has its go-to pizza spot, and in the quaint Heights neighborhood, that place is The Pizzeria. Dillon Garcia is one of the pie shop's owners and has risen up the ranks from bar manager to general manager over the years. We're big fans of their Neopolitan-style, wood-fired pizzas and the restaurant's intimate dining room. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pizza, a calzone, or even just a refreshing cocktail, The Pizzeria never disappoints.
Domestic Domestic
Also located in the quaint Heights neighborhood, Domestic Domestic was founded in 2013 as a collaboration of sorts, adopting a modern-day approach to quality, time-tested goods. The shop specializes in well-made objects created by people who live their dreams. Owner Heather Smith believes in the quality of American-made goods and has a passion for connecting her customers with the best products possible. Their shop is one of the best places in Little Rock to find a curated selection of high-quality, American-made gifts and goodies.
Discovery Night Club
Discovery is one of Little Rock's top spots for Saturday night entertainment! This multi-room party spot gives you plenty of options. You can hit the dance floor in the Main Lobby with Top 40 and hip-hop hits or play some pool or grab a seat to sip your favorite cocktail and do some great people watching. The Showroom offers incredible drag performances, proving that whatever mood you're in, there's a space to match it.
Triniti Nightclub
Triniti bills itself as Little Rock's hottest place to party on a Friday night. This 18+ club is the place to be to hear top dance and club hits. With four distinct rooms, each with its own vibe, and multiple drag shows a night, it's a one-stop shop for a fantastic night out in Little Rock
Lucky Lou's
Located in Little Rock's River Market District, Lucky Lou's is a neighborhood bar where everyone –even pets– is welcome. The location near the heart of Little Rock's nightlife scene makes them the perfect spot for an afternoon drink or a night out with friends. Though it may be one of the city's smallest bars, best friends and co-owners Laura Butler and Laura Berryhill make sure that Lucky Lou's is always big on personality and big on love
CENTRAL ARKANSAS PRIDE FEST AND PARADE
Held annually in October to coincide with LGBTQ History Month, Central Arkansas Pride Fest is a celebration of love, community, and individuality. The day includes a parade and a festival featuring local artists, performers, musicians, and vendors. PRIDE Fest will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Argenta Plaza in North Little Rock.
LITTLE ROCK BLACK PRIDE
Little Rock Black Pride's mission is to educate, celebrate, and empower Black and brown LGBTQ people through culturally specific programming and the creation of safe social spaces. This annual event is in its 18th year and serves as a resource for Arkansas’ black and brown underserved gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender residents. This event is being held the weekend of July 20-21, 2024, at the Four Points by Sheraton in Little Rock.
REEL QUEER FILM FESTIVAL
Get your early bird tickets to the Reel Queer Film Festival, formerly known as the Kaleidoscope LGBTQ+ Film Festival. The festival is in its 10th year and is a celebration of LGBTQ+ films, filmmakers, and stories with a mission to provide innovative and unique programming that will engage the hearts and minds of audiences in Arkansas and across the South. The festival will be held from August 8-11, 2024, at the Studio Theatre in downtown Little Rock.
Want to know more about the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau's commitment to equality? You can read our equity statement here.
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