Little Rock’s culinary scene is undeniably strong, but sometimes a good meal is worth a little extra mileage. Fortunately, our neighboring cities in central Arkansas have their share of standout spots that make getting out of town a flavorful experience. Whether you’re craving upscale Southern fare, an impossibly juicy burger or a plate of something completely unexpected, there’s plenty waiting just beyond the metro’s borders, and they just might earn a place in your regular rotation.
Rōber Cocktails + Culinary
Located in downtown Benton, Rōber is helmed by executive chef and owner Heather Baber. The upscale American restaurant serves up seasonal dishes with Southern hospitality and three separate areas, each with their own vibe. As for the menu, you’ll have to take it from the chef.
“The surf and turf is my favorite steak of all time, as well as almost every guest who orders it,” Baber says. “Our flagship dish is the braised short ribs. The bacon flight is such an ‘Instagrammable’ item and tastes great to boot. But the whipped feta and grilled caesar salad are both massive hits with our guests, and I have no plans to ever remove them from the menu.”
eatrober.com | 302 W. South St., Benton
Open 4-9 p.m. Tuesday – Thursday and 4-10 p.m. Friday – Saturday
Revival Restaurant + Beer Garden
A sister restaurant to Rōber, Revival is also owned by Heather Baber. With both under the umbrella of the Taco Society, which also includes the beloved Baja Grill, Revival is making strides to set itself apart with live entertainment, an extensive beer list and strong sense of community. From the mouth-watering melt burger and fresh gyro to the unforgettable wings and a must-try Saturday brunch menu, Revival is a highlight in Benton.
eatrevival.com | 226 W. South St., Benton
Open 4-9 p.m. Tuesday – Wednesday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Thursday and 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Friday – Saturday
Rookh Italian + Indian Restaurant
Comfort dishes and bold spices collide inside the kitchen at Rookh. This Bryant restaurant is known for its exciting Italian-Indian fusion dishes like butter chicken ravioli, palak paneer pizza, chicken tikka burger, tadke wala risotto, mango mutka and mousse-e-ras malai. While it may sound like a peculiar combination, skepticism is best left at the door. Every bite is delicious, colorful and fresh.
rookhknight.com | 22000 I-30, Bryant
Open 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Sunday – Thursday, 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Friday – Saturday
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Mike’s Place
A local favorite in Conway for a tasty night out, Mike’s Place has been serving up cajun-style seafood and high-quality steaks for 20 years. The restaurant is in a large space downtown, and its exposed brick, wood details and outdoor courtyard feel like you just walked into a welcoming home down south. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but you can’t beat the slow roasted prime rib, Mike’s whitefish served your way or Mike’s creole with brantley and “alfredeauz” sauces.
mikesplaceconway.com | 808 Front St., Conway
Open 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Monday – Thursday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Friday – Saturday and 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Sunday
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The Rogue Roundabout
The Rogue Roundabout, also located in downtown Conway, brings food and beer lovers together in a tasty way. Featuring classic dishes with a playful twist, this microbrewery and restaurant crafts a whole experience from beginning to end. The menu is divided into four parts — coffee, brunch, lunch and dinner — and includes plates like duck wings, build-your-own omelets, bananas foster french toast, steak, blackened pasta and, of course, a full beverage lab menu with famous soda syrups for all ages.
therogueroundabout.com | 804 Chestnut St., Conway
Open 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Tuesday – Thursday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sunday