Despite its scarcity in Little Rock, paella is one of the most iconic dishes in Spanish cuisine. And while it may have ancient roots, the recipe takes a modern form at the local restaurant Mi Paella.
The heartbeat of the restaurant is its heritage. Father, mother and son trio Carlos Valdivieso, Ana Lara and Yeimer Armando Bolaños Lara have always treated gastronomy as an inherited art, a tradition passed down through generations with deep European ties.
Before Mi Paella, the family began its food journey in Little Rock with the opening of La Terraza Rum & Lounge, known colloquially as “The House of Mojitos,” in Hillcrest. La Terraza later took on the Graffiti’s Italian Restaurant menu after the longtime icon closed, and is currently closed itself for renovations following a fire last fall.
Through a decade of learning, challenges and great satisfaction, it was at Mi Paella that Carlos and Ana found the perfect space to blend their gastronomic heritage with their love for authentic flavors, alongside their son Armando.
“If there is one thing that has shaped my life as much as my family and career, it is my passion for cooking,” Armando says. “From a young age, my palate was an endless explorer, always curious about flavors, textures and aromas. Today, I have the honor of operating Mi Paella alongside [my family] — a culinary gem and undoubtedly Little Rock’s best-kept secret.”
Located on the ground floor of the Prospect Building on University Avenue, Mi Paella is a full sensory experience. With a beautiful patio under a magnolia tree and an inviting indoor ambiance, Mi Paella offers cuisine where every dish tells a story, transporting guests to the streets of Spain and the Mediterranean with each bite.
“As my great-grandparents used to say, ‘Love enters through the stomach,’ and I have known that since childhood,” Armando says. “Some of my most cherished memories are filled with the aromas of arroz con pollo, the flavors of the sea, rich Bolognese pasta and comforting lasagna. But above all, the star of our family table was always paella.”
Under the expertise of chef Carlos, Mi Paella serves up the most authentic and classic version: a traditional chicken and seafood paella served in a large pan on a bed of flavorful rice with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
“The secret lies in a rich fish broth, the unmistakable aroma of saffron, high-quality seafood, tender chicken, roasted red peppers, garlic and onions,” Armando says. “It is a ritual that takes time, requiring about 30 minutes to cook, allowing the flavors to meld to perfection. But while you wait, you can enjoy our delicious tapas, fine wines and, of course, a well-crafted mojito.”
It’s tradition in Spain for paella to be shared, and this eatery honors that tradition. Paella orders require a minimum of two patrons, though Armando suggests sharing the experience with a large group. Many guests pre-order their paella, especially for lunch or weekend takeout.
Beyond its signature dish, the menu features other favorites like gambas bravas (spicy shrimp), grilled octopus, salmon in leek sauce, quesillo (caramel cheesecake served with ice cream) and their famous Caesar salad.
But before you’re even handed that menu, you’re greeted by the welcoming family and the beckoning scents wafting throughout the intimate dining room.
“Mi Paella is a special place, crafted with love, tradition and a deep respect for authentic cuisine.”
To share the joy of a well-made paella and creating memories around the table, this family’s invitation is always open.
Find the recipe for Carlos’ seafood paella here.