North Little Rock, located just across the Arkansas River from Little Rock, is home to a vibrant and diverse culinary scene. With options ranging from upscale New American to down-home Southern fare, there is something for every taste.
This guide highlights 10 of the very best restaurants North Little Rock has to offer based on food quality, atmosphere, and reviews.
1. South on Main
Situated in the historic Argenta district, South on Main is renowned for its creative New American cuisine with global influences. Executive Chef Matt McClure crafts seasonal menus highlighting fresh, local ingredients. Start with housemade charcuterie or buttermilk biscuits before moving on to entrées like crispy skin salmon with seasonal vegetables or pasta bolognese.
The candlelit dining room has an upscale-casual vibe perfect for special occasions or relaxed weeknight meals alike. South on Main’s award-winning wine list and craft cocktail program round out this definitive North Little Rock dining experience.
2. Doe’s Eat Place
A North Little Rock institution since the 1950s, Doe’s still maintains its no-frills roadhouse charm while serving some of the best steaks in Arkansas. Hand-cut steaks are seared over hot coals for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Perfectly cooked USDA Prime ribeyes and filets are served simply with Baked Idaho potato and house salad. The friendly waitstaff are famous for their speedy service in the bustling dining room. Enjoy live blues music nightly in the adjacent bar. With minimal extras and a focus on steak perfection, Doe’s is a top choice for classic American fare.
3. Ciao Baci
Family-owned Ciao Baci brings the flavors of Naples, Italy to North Little Rock. The cozy dining room is decorated with Tuscan accents while welcoming staff ensure guests feel like regulars. Homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas shine, from lasagna Bolognese to margherita.
But it’s the authentic Neapolitan specialties like crispy fried calamari and eggplant parmigiana that truly transport diners to the Old Country. Save room for cannoli or tiramisu for dessert. Ciao Baci’s commitment to handcrafted cooking and hospitality make it a local favorite for special meals or casual weeknight stops alike.
4. Big Orange
Casually stylish Big Orange celebrates the heritage and bounty of Arkansas with an ever-changing menu highlighting seasonal produce and proteins. The open kitchen allows guests to watch preparations of dishes like shrimp and grits, pork tenderloin, or catfish.
A huge selection of craft beers and creative cocktails pair perfectly with sharing plates like pimento cheese fondue or buttermilk fried chicken tenders. Big Orange’s friendly, knowledgeable staff make recommendations to please every palate. With everything from brunch to late night drinks, this refined yet unpretentious spot has something for every meal.
5. Ciao Bella
Located in the heart of downtown North Little Rock, Ciao Bella brings northern Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. The rotating menu features homemade pastas, expertly prepared seafood, and wood-fired pizzas.
Go traditional with chicken Parmesan or veal piccata, or try one of the chef’s specials like linguine with clams or pork osso bucco. Sophisticated cocktails and an extensive wine list reinforce the upscale yet unstuffy ambiance. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide downtown views to accompany memorable meals. Ciao Bella elevates the classics with passion and expertise.
6. The Oval Room
In an architectural gem of a building, The Oval Room has been winning fans since 2013 with refined American fare full of local flavor. The seasonal menu emphasizes creativity while highlighting regional specialties. Dishes like duck confit salad with lavash croutons or shrimp and grits elevate Southern classics.
The artisanal cocktail menu using fresh herbs and house infusions is a point of pride. Elegant yet unfussy, the dining room feels like an intimate supper club. Exceptional service and an inspired wine list complete the scene. The Oval Room is an ideal spot for a decadent night out in North Little Rock.
7. Three Fold Noodles and Dumpling Co.
This family-owned restaurant brings the warmth and flavors of Taiwan to downtown North Little Rock. Authentic recipes shine in small plates of dumplings, noodles, and stir-fries. Must-tries include the dan dan noodles with a rich sesame-chili sauce or crab Rangoon dumplings.
Dim sum carts carry these dishes and others for ordering small plates-style. Diners can grab boba tea or milk teas to accompany their meal. Modern Asian decor and lively weekend crowds maintain the excellent value of chef/owner Annie Chiu’s cooking. This colorful spot delivers on flavorful fare at reasonable prices.
8. Heights Taco & Tamale Co.
This bright local eatery brings taco expertise to The Heights neighborhood just north of downtown. Corn or flour tortillas showcase chef-driven fillings including shrimp adobo, carnitas al pastor, and chicken tinga. But don’t overlook the homemade tamales—both sweet and savory varieties.
Top-notch salsas and house pickled vegetables keep guests coming back for seconds. An extensive tequila menu caters to those looking to enjoy a night out. Heights Taco & Tamale’s creative range of tacos and fresh ingredients make it a go-to for casual dining with friends. Hearty margaritas don’t hurt, either.
9. Damgoode Pies
Southern hospitality and down-home scratch cooking shine at Damgoode Pies. But it’s their signature hand-tossed pies that keep guests coming back for more. Savory options like chicken pot pie share the menu with decadent treats like banana cream, pecan, and bourbon chocolate pies.
Hearty skillet breakfasts on weekends feature eggs, grits, and housemade biscuits. During weekday lunches, salads and sandwiches round out the casual fare. Gracious servers ensure all feel welcome in the rustic-chic space. No visit is complete without a slice or whole pie to take home—just save room beforehand. Damgoode Pies delivers memorable pie and hospitality.
10. Ricardo’s Café
For over 25 years, Ricardo’s Café has served Latin American specialties with warmth and character. Breakfast tacos and churros fuel early risers, while lunch and dinner invite sharing family-style platters. Authentic specialties like chimichangas, fajitas al carbon, and mole poblano emerge from the kitchen.
Weekend dim sum brunches feature classic Mexican breakfast fare and live music. With festive decor and margaritas worthy of their margarita tours, Ricardo’s maintains a celebratory vibe all day long. It remains a beloved institution elevating Latin flavors in North Little Rock.
From upscale steakhouses to casual taco spots, North Little Rock delivers incredible culinary diversity. Whether seeking date night inspiration or a new favorite lunch spot, these 10 restaurants exemplify the region’s wealth of quality and character. With such gems, food lovers will always find something delicious around every corner in this Arkansas city.