Conway, Arkansas is home to a thriving culinary scene. As the county seat of Faulkner County and the largest city in the Conway metropolitan area, Conway offers no shortage of delicious dining options.
With its proximity to Little Rock and location along Interstate 40, Conway is perfectly positioned for folks passing through as well as locals looking for a great meal. This guide will introduce you to 10 of the best restaurants Conway has to offer, covering a wide variety of cuisines.
1. Root Cafe
Root Cafe is a popular local favorite known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative dishes. Located in downtown Conway, Root Cafe strives to source ingredients from local farms and purveyors whenever possible. The menu changes regularly based on availability but always features unique salads, sandwiches and entrees.
Recent standout dishes include the grilled quail with sautéed greens and polenta and the bouillabaisse with local seafood and rouille. Root Cafe also has an excellent selection of craft beer, wine and specialty cocktails to complement your meal. The warm, eclectic decor provides a comfortable atmosphere for dining or catching up with friends over a cup of coffee.
2. Cregeen’s Irish Pub
For truly authentic Irish fare and atmosphere, look no further than Cregeen’s Irish Pub. Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported across the pond – the cozy pub is decorated with Celtic designs, flags and memorabilia. Start your meal with the Irish nachos, a pile of crispy fries loaded with cheese, bacon and scallions.
Entree favorites include the shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, and fish and chips. On weekends, Cregeen’s frequently hosts live music with traditional Irish folk bands. Quench your thirst with a perfectly poured Guinness or one of the specialty cocktails. It’s the perfect spot to catch an international football or rugby match. Whether you’re Irish or not, Cregeen’s transports you to the Emerald Isle.
3. Sassis Cafe & Catering
Sassis Cafe is a daytime cafe and catering company known for its made-from-scratch breads, pastries and sandwiches. Located downtown, the cafe has a bright, airy interior with large windows overlooking the street. Start your morning with a flaky croissant or cinnamon roll, or fuel up with one of Sassis’ breakfast sandwiches.
Lunch options like pimento cheese, chicken salad or grilled three-cheese sandwiches on homemade bread are the perfect midday meal. You’ll also find unique salads and hearty soups made daily. While you enjoy your food, sip a specialty latte or tea. Be sure to save room for a pastry – the bourbon pecan bars are addictive. Sassis makes for a delightful pit stop whether you need a breakfast bite or midday pick-me-up.
4. Twin Chicken
For delicious Southern comfort food, look no further than Twin Chicken. This Conway institution has been serving up fried chicken, catfish, burgers and sides since the 1960s. Order their famous fried or grilled chicken with a choice of sides like macaroni and cheese, fried okra, creamy coleslaw or baked beans. They also grill up tasty salmon, chicken breast or tenderloin steaks.
The fried catfish is a tasty alternative for those who want seafood. Pair your entree with hush puppies, Texas toast or buttermilk biscuits. With its down-home atmosphere, hearty portions and friendly service, Twin Chicken is a quintessential Conway dining experience not to be missed.
5. RJ’s Sports Grill & Bar
RJ’s Sports Grill is the place to be for catching all your favorite games. With over 30 big screen TVs throughout, you’ll never miss an important play. Start your visit with beer-battered onion rings or Cajun fries from the bar menu. Handheld options like Angus beef sliders, buffalo chicken wrap or Philly cheesesteak provide substance.
Entrees like blackened tilapia, pastas and hand-pattied burgers satisfy sizable appetites. On weekends, RJ’s offers prime rib, ribeye steak and baked chicken under cream sauce. Team up your meal with a craft beer, cocktail or tasty RJ’s signature sauce. Whether you want to cheers with friends or catch the game solo, RJ’s ensures an enjoyable experience.
6. Damgoode Pies
For pizza aficionados, Damgoode Pies is simply a must. This cozy spot bakes authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas in their wood-fire oven to perfection. Build your own pie or choose from rotating specialty options like the veggie lover with zucchini, spinach and mushrooms or the classic pepperoni. You’ll also find salads, sandwiches and shareable appetizers.
Wash it down with a craft beer, wine or specialty cocktail. Save room to add a decadent cannoli or tiramisu for dessert. Whether dining in at the communal tables or taking out, Damgoode’s thin-crust delights will have you coming back for more. Their popularity has led to additional locations across Central Arkansas, but the original Conway spot remains a local favorite.
7. Mi Ranchito
Craving authentic Mexican flavor? Mi Ranchito is a local favorite. From the festive patio strung with lights to the mariachi music playing inside, you’ll feel transported south of the border. Start with nachos, queso or guacamole before entrées. Specialties include fajitas, chimichangas, street tacos and enchiladas. Seafood lovers won’t want to miss the camarones al mojo de ajo – shrimp sautéed in garlic butter.
Mi Ranchito also does tamales and menudo on weekends. Pair your feast with a margarita, Pacifico or Mexican Coke. Friendly staff ensures a fun, festive experience. Let Mi Ranchito satisfy your craving for real Mexican cuisine done right.
8. Red Door
For an upscale yet comfortable dining experience, look to Red Door in downtown Conway. The art deco inspired interior provides a polished yet relaxing atmosphere. Chef-driven creations utilize seasonal ingredients in unique presentations. Recent standouts include seared diver scallops with sausage risotto and a fig-braised pork chop. The wine list pairs perfectly with each dish.
For lunch or a lighter dinner, salads and sandwiches let the ingredients shine. Save room for house-made desserts like buttermilk pie or bread pudding. Red Door’s commitment to high quality, locally-sourced fare along with impeccable service make it a top choice for special occasions or date night dining. Business casual dress recommended.
9. Big Orange
Looking for homestyle cooking and good company? Big Orange Cafe is your spot. This family-owned restaurant has delighted regulars for over 30 years with farm-fresh favorites. Start your visit in the cozy main dining room or screened-in porch before moving outdoors to the biergarten in nice weather.
Menu highlights include fried chicken, smoked pork chops, catfish, fried green tomatoes and homemade biscuits and cornbread. Available daily, the rotating plate lunch special delivers two sides and a bread for an incredible value. Big Orange’s hospitality and cozy charm keep locals and travelers alike returning time and again. It’s a true neighborhood gem.
10. Deva’s Kitchen
Health enthusiasts appreciate Deva’s Kitchen for tasty, nutritious fare. As Central Arkansas’ premier health food restaurant and juice bar, Deva’s features a variety of vegetarian, vegan and paleo-friendly dishes. Start your midday with a juice cleanse or smoothie before salads like the Hail Kale Caesar or Buddha Bowl. Sandwiches and wraps let you customize protein and toppings.
Entrees like black bean enchiladas, garlic ginger noodles or coconut curry allow for satisfying plant-based dining. Gluten-free and dairy-free options abound as well. Nut butter fans won’t want to miss the chocolate lava cake or Energy Balls for a healthy indulgence. Dine in the sunlit space or order online for easy pickup.
Conclusion
With such a variety of independently owned eateries representing diverse cuisines, it’s no wonder Conway has developed such a thriving culinary scene.
Whether you’re looking for comfort food, craft beers, authentic ethnic flavors or farm-to-table creations, these 10 top restaurants show the quality and care that goes into Conway’s dining options. Local restaurant owners have mastered the art of hospitality as much as the cuisine itself. Be sure to patronize these culinary gems during your visit to experience the true flavor of Conway.