Little Rock Advances to Final Round of The Local Palate’s Best Culinary Towns in the South

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (July 13, 2026) — Little Rock has advanced to the final round of The Local Palate’s Best Culinary Towns in the South public vote, making the city one of four finalists vying for the top honor.

After being named one of the publication’s Top 15 Culinary Towns in the South, Little Rock advanced through the first round of public voting thanks to strong community support. The final round is now underway and will remain open through 11:59 a.m. CT on Friday, July 17.

Each year, The Local Palate recognizes Southern destinations known for exceptional culinary experiences, from award-winning restaurants and neighborhood favorites to breweries, coffee shops, food trucks, farmers markets, and local food artisans. The winning destination will be featured on the cover of The Local Palate’s Best Culinary Towns in the South issue this December.

“This recognition reflects the passion, creativity, and hospitality that define Little Rock’s culinary community,” said Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (LRCVB’s) President & CEO Gina Gemberling. “Thank you to everyone who helped us reach the final round. Every vote has helped shine a spotlight on the incredible people and places that make our city’s culinary scene so special. We invite our community to vote again and help keep Little Rock in the spotlight.”

Residents, visitors, and supporters are encouraged to cast their vote and help elevate Little Rock’s vibrant culinary scene on a regional and national level.

To vote, visit thelocalpalate.com/articles/top-culinary-towns-2026 and cast your vote by 11:59 a.m. CT on Friday, July 17.

ABOUT THE LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 

The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Little Rock, responsible for promoting the city for convention and leisure travel. The LRCVB also operates the Statehouse Convention Center, Robinson Center, Cromwell Building, and the River Market which includes Ottenheimer Hall, two open air pavilions, and the First Security Amphitheater, as well as multiple parking facilities. The LRCVB is primarily funded by the city’s lodging tax and prepared food tax. The organization has four primary divisions: Finance & Administration; Sales, Services, & Community Engagement; Marketing & Communications; and Facility Operations. For more information, visit here.