Little Rock’s downtown has expanded in every direction and now encompasses distinct neighborhoods like SoMa, Argenta, East Village and, of course, the River Market. Downtown is thriving and full of new adventures, so let's explore.
EAT
Copper Grill
This patio is the perfect spot to celebrate special occasions or the everyday with an Arkansas-centric cheese board and award-winning wine selection just steps away from the downtown action.
Order: kicked up mac & cheese balls
Fidel & Co.
Coffee is one of life’s necessities, so as the temps climb, try Fidel & Co.’s iced coffee or iced tea lattes for an afternoon pick-me-up in their open air shop.
Order: za'atar bagel
Raduno Brick Oven & Barroom
This SoMa eatery has pizza, craft cocktails and a sidewalk deck — what else do you need? Known for their boozy brunches, Raduno always delivers on food and fun.
Order: date night salad with smoked salmon
Ristorante Capeo
This authentic Italian restaurant offers all the classics. The pasta is made in-house and many of their ingredients are locally sourced, which pairs well with their extensive wine list.
Order: spaghetti carbonara
Samantha's Tap Room & Wood Grill
The place to see and be seen. The lunch crowd is filled with Little Rock’s business elite while happy hour and beyond is all about the city’s movers and shakers.
Order: wood grilled tacos
Lost Forty Brewing
A mainstay of East Village, this brewery turns out one award-winning beer after another, but don't sleep on their dining menu, especially the all-day Sunday brunch. Our editor claims their biscuits and gravy are the best she's ever had.
Order: scratch-made cinnamon roll
Stickyz Rock 'n' Roll Chicken Shack
A Little Rock classic that should be revisited often. The downtown eatery built its reputation on live music and chicken strips, and 20 years later, neither disappoint. Plus, it's a great family spot for lunch.
Order: Sticky Fingerz
The Root Cafe
Credited for bringing the farm-to-table concept to Little Rock, The Root is known for brunch, but their new-ish dinner service is equally impressive.
Order: purple hull peas plate
Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co.
The menu is simple, which means you can't go wrong with anything you order. Enjoy your traditional Chinese meal in this industrial chic space and don’t forget the taro chips.
Order: noodle bowl with tofu
Shop
Moxy Modern Mercantile
If you're looking for an eclectic mix of retro finds and quirky gifts, this store is full of cool treasures where you can get lost exploring all the funny cards and one-of-a-kind finds.
Galaxy Office Furniture
This Argenta store is like stepping into another time. Filled to the brim with secondhand items and kitschy pieces, an afternoon in Galaxy is always an adventure.
Fringe
Downtown’s trendy fashion stop, especially if you need something to wear to a concert. The store offers flowy dresses and hats galore that are perfect for a River Market night out.
Bella Vita
This gift shop houses the Bella Vita Jewelry studio where custom pieces can be made on the spot, as well as Cocoa Belle Chocolates. It is a true boho dream filled with books, clothes, apothecary products and local artistry.
Sweet Home Furnishings
Come for the beautiful collection of antique furniture and home accessories, stay for the owners who know the history of every piece.
South Main Creative
A thrifter's dream. Full of unique pieces and great vintage finds, all very organized and well curated, this shop has several fashion booths that are worth the visit.
Year-Round Fun
Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge
This 1970s-inspired bowling alley is full of nostalgia and old school fun. Reserve the private lane and lounge for groups, or rent out a karaoke room. The beer list is long and the photo-ops are endless.
Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge
Esse Purse Museum
Downtown is full of museums, but this isn't your average stop. While the displays are beautiful and interesting, the stories behind the purses alone are worth the visit. Don't forget about the museum’s gift shop, it's the best handbag selection in town.
2nd Friday Art Night
On the second Friday of each month, downtown galleries, museums and shops offer later hours, special programming, live entertainment and special menus, all walkable and often based around a set theme.
Summer To-Do List
