NEW CHAPTERS
Downtown has become quite the haven for bookworms in recent months. Books by the Pound, an offshoot of the original Searcy location, lives up to its name with a trove of new and used books, movies and albums near Dickey-Stephens Park. Also in Argenta, Pocket Dimension Bookshoppe has turned its pop-up shop into a brick-and-mortar store. In Pettaway Square, Paper Hearts Bookstore moved just a few doors down into a larger space, while The People’s Bookstore is now open inside Iron & Ink Collective on South Cross Street.
But since it opened in October, the new Main Library, crown jewel of the Central Arkansas Library System, has caught every reader’s attention. The building was fully redesigned, complete with new outdoor and rooftop spaces, with the renovated Library Square Books store also coming soon.
Progress continues in Argenta on the stretch dubbed the “Arena District” for its proximity to the Simmons Bank Arena. Plans include the newly opened North Little Rock Event Center, an Aloft Hotel and the new home to Willy D’s Dueling Pianos bar, as well as a newly-announced John Daly Pizza.
Meanwhile, the city is set to break ground on Argenta Plaza’s atg Pavilion this month.
FOOD & DRINK
In true downtown fashion, historic structures are getting new life and offering new flavors for locals to enjoy. The iconic Dreamland Ballroom that sits atop Taborian Hall on West Ninth Street is expanding downward with the opening of its Dreamland Lounge on the ground floor. The space will stay true to its jazzy, art deco roots and will officially open this fall.
Meanwhile, construction continues on Restaurant Fleur, the French-American eatery set to open this summer in the Bob R. Brooks Justice Building (formerly the Boyle Building) from “Master Chef” finalist Jennifer Maune. Hazel’s Public House, a burger-centric restaurant from the owners of Allsopp & Chapple, is likewise underway in the former Big Whiskey’s location.
Also in the River Market, Sonny Williams’ Steak Room has found new owners in JTJ Restaurants, the group behind Petit & Keet Bar & Grill, Cypress Social and several others. JTJ plans to refurbish the space, but keep its beloved charm.
Across the river, Funky Stretch Pizza has brought fresh, fun and unique menus and vibes to Magnolia Street, while Ease Supper Club has completed its move from Park Hill into The Baker.
Unfortunately, we said goodbye to some local legends in recent months, too. Iriana’s Pizza surprised fans in April by announcing it would close its doors after 39 years, followed days later with the announcement it would be replaced by Mad Slice Pizza + Beer. Flora Jean’s, the vegetarian eatery from the sister team behind At the Corner, also closed its doors at the end of March.
And on a literal high note, after Agasi 7 closed last summer atop the Hilton Garden Inn, the new Skyline Social: Rooftop Bar + Kitchen has teased it will take over the space later this year.
Bonus: The Mighty Rib has the scoop on the just-announced closing of longtime favorite Stratton’s Market and its planned evolution into an elevated bistro, speakeasy and bodega. Read it here.
RETAIL & RECREATION
Pettaway continues to offer an exciting and ever-evolving small business community. There, the plant/art shop and creative space Concrete Roots Botanical Studio recently expanded into the neighboring space, while Pettaway developer Michael Orndorff continues efforts to grow the neighborhood with more residential, business and community spaces.
Meanwhile, the pet store Puppy Community has moved out of Pettaway and onto River Market Avenue, with the Blume & Hall Fashion Academy (formerly the Arkansas Fashion School) opening its new location nearby.
Elsewhere in the River Market, Ottenheimer Hall has been approved to undergo renovations set to debut in 2027 as it marks its 30th year. Likewise, the iconic Capital Hotel is celebrating its 150th anniversary all year with special tours, pours and community partnerships.
For those looking to explore, the Museum of Discovery launched a Parents’ Night Out Mini-Camp corresponding with downtown’s monthly 2nd Friday Art Nights.
And though shoppers may be saddened by the loss of Pink Olive and the East Village Art Market, they now have the opportunity to shop vintage and streetwear finds at Back to Vida in SoMa.
Overlooking it all is the new Skyline Event Venue, set on the 30th floor of the 400 West Capitol tower, former home of legendary restaurant Jacques & Suzanne and the Little Rock Club. The venue will host weddings, fundraisers and other special occasions, and is currently in the works.
TALK OF THE TOWN
These nearby neighbors were chosen by you as Soirée Recommends: Platinum Service Award winners.
Antique Store: The Punch Bowl
Art Gallery: M2 Gallery
Bakery: Community Bakery
Birthday Party Venue: Museum of Discovery
Family Photographer: Katie Childs
Hardware Store: Fuller & Son
Travel Agency: Poe Travel
Venue: Clinton Presidential Center
Click here to see some of the local businesses that make these neighborhoods so special.