In a place that’s been dubbed one of the country’s top secret foodie cities, we’re not surprised that some of the best restaurants in Little Rock are tucked inside hotels. So whether you’re a local looking for a new dish, or just dropping into our fair city for a short time, here are some of our favorites.
One Eleven and Capital Bar & Grill at The Capital Hotel
111 W. Markham St., (501) 374-7474
It’s almost not fair that both of these establishments are located on the bottom floor of what is arguably the city’s most iconic hotel. On one side of the lobby is One Eleven, which was named a semifinalist for the prestigious James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant. We’re big fans of the “Express Lunch” (soup, starter, main course, cheese, bread and dessert), as well as Chef Joël Antunes’s jaw-dropping dessert menu. On the other side of the lobby is Capital Bar & Grill, the city’s “legendary watering hole.” If you stop in, don’t leave without sampling the famous pimento cheese or partaking in the award-winning CBG beverage program.
Heritage Grille, Steak & Fin at Little Rock Marriott
3 Statehouse Plaza, (501) 399-8000
After opening in 2014, this spot has quickly become a standout among the average hotel restaurant. You can’t go wrong with the Heritage BLT with thick-cut peppercorn bacon on toasted sourdough or the seared ahi salad, but guests just can’t get enough of the steaks. Come hungry.
Riverfront Steakhouse at Wyndham
2 Riverfront Place, North Little Rock, (501) 371-9000
As the name suggests, a quick hop over the river into North Little Rock is worth it for the sirloins, pork chops and jumbo shrimp at this steakhouse. Just don’t leave without trying the Chocolate Confusion.
Table 28 at The Burgundy Hotel
1501 Merrill Dr., (501) 224-8051
Chef Scott Rains is at the reins of this West Little Rock restaurant. Nestled inside the boutique hotel, you’ll find regional ingredients, including locally grown, organic produce, comprising the modern American cuisine on Table 28’s menu. Favorites include the blackened sea bass, quail lollipops and apple crisp.
Boston’s Restaurant & Sports Bar at Holiday Inn Airport Conference Center
3201 Bankhead Dr., (501) 490-1000
Don’t let it fool you. Just because Boston’s is a chain doesn’t mean it can’t serve up a mean pizza. (It can, and it does.) Also on the menu are gourmet pastas and burgers, and a hot brandy cream pie that will stop you in your tracks. It’s the only Boston’s location in the state, and it’s a mile and a half from the airport, making it the perfect last-night-on-vacation meal, welcome-home treat or just-because-it’s-Monday feast.