You know the feeling:
Hunger strikes and you have to decide on where you're going to eat.
The Foodie Guide
well Look no further!
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our Foodie Guide to find the most delicious meals throughout Central Arkansas! ARKTIMES.COM
JUNE 2026 1
WHITE WATER TAVERN
KATHERINE ELDRIDGE, OWNER CHEF DAVID DOE’S EAT PLACE
Easily the best catfish in Little Rock lives at The Legendary White Water Tavern. Since the beloved dive and venue reopened (Natalee Miller and Travis Hill) after COVID in 2021, the catfish has been sought after by patrons and listed in the Arkansas Times RCA polls as “Best Catfish in Little Rock” for a number of years. Shane Clinton, who curated the menu, added the item when the restaurant reopened. It’s farm-raised, hand-battered, cornmeal-breaded and deep-fried with your choice of chips, fries or fried okra and tartar sauce. Frequently ordered at happy hour or later in the evening when the drinks are flowing. It’s perfectly paired with a draft beer or a cold Busch Light from behind the bar.
2500 WEST 7TH ST. | LITTLE ROCK WHITEWATERTAVERN.COM
CHEF ADAM SWEET
PROBLEM CHILD PIZZA “The first thing that someone thinks about when they walk into a pizzeria is probably not a burger, but when you walk into Problem Child you better change that mindset. I knew when I started building the menu for our little pizza shop at the top of Cantrell, under the radio tower, that I wanted to offer a warm hug of a cheeseburger. Nothing fancy, no hype words or special sourcing to brag about… just a double stack, 3 slices of American cheese, thin sliced onion and lettuce, and fat dill pickle chips on a potato bun (and of course our “special sauce” to glue it all together). And any place that doesn’t serve fries with a burger automatically probably has a sadist in the kitchen! Next time you have a free afternoon I invite you to belly up to our bar and grab one, preferably with an ice cold PBR.”
201 KEIGHTLY DR. | LITTLE ROCK PROBLEMCHILDLITTLEROCK.COM 2 JUNE 2026
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Doe’s Eat Place offers convenient curbside parking and your choice of inside or outside dining. It is a down-to-earth, no frills southern atmosphere. A longtime regional favorite. We have your favorite steaks and all the fixings. We also offer big servings of our famous hot tamales with chili, broiled shrimp, grilled salmon, hamburgers, cheeseburgers and more at a reasonably good price.
1023 W. MARKHAM | DOWNTOWN LITTLE ROCK 501-376-1195 | DOESEATPLACELR.COM
REVIVAL
Live music from Cam Shelton in the beer garden.
The Revival Melt
HEATHER BABER, OWNER THE TACO SOCIETY
With 29 years in the restaurant industry, Heather Baber is the owner and chef behind three beloved central Arkansas restaurants collectively known as the Taco Society: Baja Grill, Revival, and RŌBER. Known for her relentless attention to detail and heartfelt hospitality, Baber has built each concept around creating memorable guest experiences while empowering the teams that bring them to life every day. At Baja Grill, she recommends favorites like the Honey Chipotle or Cuban Nachos, crediting the restaurant’s success to “a great staff who have a lot of love for the place.” At Revival, she enjoys the Gyro or The Melt. The restaurant’s weekly live music in the beer garden has become a community favorite, and Baber praises the team’s ability to serve such a large venue with consistency and care. RŌBER, her upscale American concept inspired by the Sunday dinners she cooked for her family, holds a special place in her heart and attracts guests from across the country. There, her favorites are the Short Rib Ragu and the Surf + Turf. “I obsess over the small details,” Baber says. “But it’s the details that make these places so special.” Above all, she remains deeply grateful to every guest who chooses to dine with her restaurants, never taking their support for granted.
BAJA
Cuban Nachos
ROBER
Surf + Turf
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JUNE 2026 3
HAM MARKET
Located in the heart of Historic Hillcrest, HAM Market has been a staple of the Little Rock community for more than a decade. After moving across the street from its original location to alongside its sister endeavor Hill Station, the specialty market and butcher shop has earned a loyal following for its expertly sourced meats, handcrafted sandwiches, house-made sausages, charcuterie boards, local pantry items, and hard-to-find staples — all served with a strong focus on quality and hospitality. At the center of HAM Market is its butcher counter, where premium meats are carefully selected from trusted farms and producers, with an emphasis on sourcing close to Little Rock whenever possible. Known for high-quality steaks and housemade sausages, the team specializes in custom cuts prepared to guests’ exact specifications, whether it’s a thick-cut ribeye for the grill or tenderloins for a dinner party. HAM Market is led by co-owners Tim Bryant, brother of owner Daniel Bryant, and Christin Hula-Bryant, whose leadership has helped shape the business into a destination recognized for creativity, craftsmanship, and exceptional service. Like the “mad scientists of meat,” the team continuously experiments with sausage recipes, dry-aging techniques, curing methods, and bold flavor combinations while honoring traditional butchery practices. Beyond the butcher program, HAM Market is equally known for its fresh lunch sandwiches, including favorites like The Georgie and The Squash Blossom. Made daily with house-prepared meats, fresh bread, and high-quality ingredients, the sandwiches often sell out quickly. The menu changes regularly with seasonal inspiration, giving guests something new to enjoy with every visit. HAM Market also offers custom sausage orders, charcuterie boards, specialty cuts, and special requests for everything from backyard cookouts to holiday meals.
2712 KAVANAUGH BLVD | LITTLE ROCK | HAMHILLCREST.COM 4 JUNE 2026
ARKANSAS TIMES
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HILL STATION
After riding the one-of-a-kind wave of Qatar’s fall iteration in 2022, we at Hill Station can hardly believe the World Cup is already upon us again. Apparently if you stay busy enough four years can fly right by. It seems like we just rolled up the turf from the impromptu playing field on Kavanaugh, said goodbye to our group of 4 a.m. regulars, and handed out the flags for the last two teams standing. When Cup fans last parted, we’d just been treated to a blessing of a match that pitted heavyweights France and Argentina against one another. In the end, after penalties, it was Messi finally lifting the trophy for his side and country. And like all soccer fans, we are now eagerly awaiting as this Cup’s storyline’s take shape. The big names are at the top with France and Spain listed as the co-favorites, England and Brazil right behind them, and Argentina once again within striking distance. Hopefully, all of the tournament’s players get healthy and the USA, in the upper third, finds a way to make some noise. The flags along Kavanaugh will soon be up as will additional large screens for better outdoor viewing than last time around. You might also notice the flag line will be a little more populated in 2026 as FIFA has, for better or worse, grown the number of qualifying teams from 32 to 48. The merch has been ordered, special promotions laid out, and the staff has gotten mentally prepared. With World Cup 2026 being hosted in North America we hope you find the opportunity (and considerable money) to catch a match in person. But for those who can’t, and I think that’s most of us, rest assured that we are working hard to create the most immersive and best local World Cup experience we can. And 2022, we will be showing EVERY-SINGLE-MATCH…Thankfully just not at 4 a.m.!
2712 KAVANAUGH BLVD | LITTLE ROCK | HILLSTATIONHILLCREST.COM SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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JUNE 2026 5
BEN BRAINARD
LAWRENCE PICKARD(L) MEL JONES (R)
WALDO’S CHICKEN AND BEER
MIDTOWN BILLIARDS
ROTISSERIE CHICKEN WITH COLLARD GREENS “Lately, I’m trying to be more mindful of what I’m eating, and the Rotisserie Chicken is absolutely my go to at Waldo’s. We marinate whole birds overnight in a slightly spicy, slightly sweet brine that keeps the chicken flavorful and juicy while it cooks on the rotisserie. I typically order the 1/4 white, but I prefer the 1/4 dark meat. I ALWAYS get the collards and white beans because they are my favorite sides and two of the most healthful options.” BRECKENRIDGE VILLAGE | NORTH LITTLE ROCK | BASS PRO DR.
Whether you’re walking into Midtown at 3 p.m. for happy hour or 3 a.m. after a bartending shift, Midtown has your cravings covered. Owner David Shipps added the longtime favorite “Gutbomb” to the menu years ago after former owner Maggie Hinson approved the kitchen experiment that became a beloved staple. Packed with a half-pound burger patty, cheddar and pepper jack cheese, bacon, Spam, fried egg and your choice of fixings, it’s worth every penny. They also serve a standout BLT made on the famous Midtown grill. Chefs Lawrence Pickard and Mel Jones bring 32 years of combined experience to every order—stop by and see them today!
WALDOSCHICKEN.COM
HOSPITALITY TEAM
1316 S MAIN ST. | LITTLE ROCK
ATTIC BAR
“I’d recommend our Crunchwrap, it’s our take on the late night fast food classic made with our delicious barbecued meats from downstairs at Back Home.”-Chase Rittelmeyer, Attic Bar “Our Charcuterie Board an ensemble of flavors you can explore in any way you choose, evoking delightful pairings with a wide array of beverages.” -Jared Browner, Bartender at Attic Bar This ain’t your grandma’s attic. Sitting just above Back Home Barbecue is a cozy upstairs hideaway built for kicking back after a long day. The stairs are steep, but the vibes are high. With craft cocktails, eclectic charm, and a laidback atmosphere, Attic Bar is perfect for happy hour, celebrations, date nights, and private gatherings. It’s the ideal place to unwind after the workday so come on in for a drink and enjoy a little bar food with some Back Home flavor. 801 W. MARKHAM ST. | LITTLE ROCK 6 JUNE 2026
ARKANSAS TIMES
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PAYNE HARDING, CHEF
CACHE RESTAURANT Prepare yourself for a culinary journey at Cache, where sophisticated “Southern New American” cuisine meets exquisite technique! This isn’t just dining; it’s an experience meticulously crafted by Chef Payne, winner of the 2026 Delta Diamond Chef award, and deeply inspired by both classical training and rich Cajun/Creole traditions. Cache is renowned for its Friday Fried Chicken, a downtown legend served with double sides and cornbread — a truly elevated take on Southern comfort, based on a cherished family recipe. But the excitement truly ignites with Cache’s nightly dinner service. Everything is made fresh daily, presented beautifully. The star of the show for many is the fresh fish, flown in weekly. Imagine vibrant, cherry-red tuna from Hawaii, expertly prepared — perhaps with orzo, peppers and a delicate honey-soy glaze, a recent tantalizing special. Beyond the beloved staples, the menu constantly evolves with two to three seasonal items introduced every few months alongside daily specials that push creative boundaries. Indulge in innovative dishes like a perfectly slow-cooked duck confit with a bright, fruity, citrusy sauce, or savor Cache’s popular shrimp and grits, infused with a delightful Cajun flair. And for dessert? Prepare to be amazed. Cache boasts an incredible array of house-made sweet treats. Its creme brûlée features a perfect, crisp crust, while the warm bread pudding with cinnamon brioche croutons and bourbon caramel sauce is pure indulgence. Don’t miss the skillet cookie with ice cream, scratch-made key lime pie or the sweet biscuit with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Cache offers a truly unforgettable dining experience, proving that world-class cuisine thrives in Little Rock.
BLACKENED SALMON
EIGHT OZ FILET MIGNON
CAPRESE SALAD
CACHE RESTAURANT | 501-850-0265 | 425 PRESIDENT CLINTON AVE. | LITTLE ROCK | CACHELITTLEROCK.COM SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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JUNE 2026 7
CONAN ROBINSON
FRENCH QUARTER PASTA
FOUR QUARTER BAR
Picture this: a generous bowl of Four Quarter Bar’s French Quarter Pasta, where perfectly cooked rotini swims in a luscious, house-made sauce. Each forkful bursts with the taste of the Gulf, thanks to tender crawfish and plump shrimp, mingling with the smoky undertones of shredded chicken. A secret blend of Cajun spices adds a gentle heat, awakening your palate. This isn’t just pasta; it’s a comforting, flavorful journey to the French Quarter, complete with crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of deliciousness. Craving satisfied.
415 MAIN ST., NORTH LITTLE ROCK FOURQUARTERBAR.COM
BEN BRAINARD
BIG BAD BREAKFAST
HUEVOS RANCHEROS “I’ve spent too much time in Mexico not to love Huevos Rancheros and this is a fabulous nod to that classic dish. We serve it with our cheese grits, freshly made pico de gallo, zesty black beans and our pork and chicken sausage. I prefer my eggs poached, but many people order them with a fried egg as well. The fresh avocado and our Mojo Verde sauce brighten the entire dish beautifully.”
WEST LITTLE ROCK, DOWNTOWN BIGBADBREAKFAST.COM/LOCATIONS/LITTLE-ROCK/
DIANA BRATTON
TACO MAMA
At Taco Mama, Chef Diana Bratton blends Texas roots, Arkansas hospitality and decades of culinary experience into a restaurant and catering brand built on bold flavor and scratch-made cooking. Taco Mama has become known for its vibrant Mexican cuisine — house-made tortillas, layered sauces, slow-smoked meats and fresh ingredients prepared with care and authenticity. But Bratton’s culinary style reaches far beyond one lane. Through Diana Bratton Catering, she creates elevated Southern dishes, refined brunch menus, elegant wedding dinners and chef-driven seasonal experiences inspired by Southern, Mediterranean, Latin and contemporary American influences. Whether serving tacos, tenderloin or thoughtfully crafted small plates, Bratton’s philosophy remains the same: “Flavor is everything.” Weddings, rehearsal dinners, office parties and much more! For catering inquiries, call or text 501-547-1590.
MALVERN & SIDE TOWN | HOT SPRINGS | TACOMAMA.NET 8 JUNE 2026
ARKANSAS TIMES
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CAPI PECK, BRENT PETERSON, TONY PECK, SHANNA MERRIWEATHER, STEPHANIE CARUTHERS
PECK’S SALAD
TRIO’S
Trio’s celebrates our 40th anniversary this year. Our chef-driven menu and friendly service put us on the map in Central Arkansas. Great food and a staff-wide commitment to genuine hospitality are our trademark. We treat you like a guest in our own home. A few restaurants change their menu seasonally, but we change 11 items on our dinner menu every month. Several of our favorites never go away. Chicken Enchiladas or Voodoo Pasta anyone? Chef Shanna Merriweather, a 25-year Trio’s veteran, fosters relationships around Arkansas and beyond bringing the best of the season to you. Our regular guests remind us that we’re groundbreaking: one of the first restaurants to go non-smoking, to go green, and even to make Jello cool again. Trio’s is where innovation comes to dine, which doesn’t mean we don’t honor tradition. Several menu favorites made their way from the legendary Sam Peck Hotel kitchen … that’s a 75-year legacy! If you haven’t been to Trio’s in a while, it’s been too long! We can’t wait to see you.
STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE
TRIO’S | 8201 CANTRELL ROAD SUITE 100 | TRIOSRESTAURANT.COM
BACK HOME HOSPITALITY TEAM BACK HOME BARBECUE “Our Texas Twinkies are the most succulent bite ever brought to town. Jalapeno poppers stuffed with brisket, cream cheese, three different cheeses and stuffed with brisket then smoked and grilled to perfection. Perfect for an on the go snack.” -Curtis Guerrero, Pitmaster at Back Home Self described “Fire Lord” of back Home BBQ, Shannon’s go to plate at Back home is a brisket plate, with fatty side brisket, along with some cream corn and cheesy potatoes. -Shannon Hartley, Pit Crew In the heart of Little Rock, Back Home Barbecue lives up to its name by bringing people together over familiar flavors, warm hospitality, and slow-smoked barbecue that feels like home. No matter where you’re from, there’s something comforting about the atmosphere. From the moment you walk in, it feels less like a restaurant and more like gathering around a table with family and friends. Behind every plate is a team effort led by skilled pitmasters who know great barbecue is built together, from the smokers to the serving line. That shared passion creates an atmosphere that feels relaxed, welcoming, and genuine, where strangers quickly become friends, and every guest is treated like family. In a city filled with flavor, Back Home Barbecue stands out by serving more than great food. It delivers the kind of meal and experience that keeps bringing people back home. 801 W. MARKHAM ST. | LITTLE ROCK | BHBBQ.COM SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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JUNE 2026 9
CHEF JOHN TEAH
VENETIAN DINING ROOM Step into a dining experience as legendary as The Arlington itself in the Venetian Dining Room, where historic elegance meets bold, unforgettable flavor in the heart of Hot Springs. From delicious breakfasts served seven days a week to elevated lunch and dinner offerings Thursday through Saturday, every meal is designed to delight. Guests eagerly gather for the beloved Friday Night Seafood Buffet for an abundant spread of fresh seafood and chef-crafted specialties, like the sushi display and seafood scampi flambe station, while the iconic Sunday Brunch remains a can’t-miss tradition for locals and visitors alike. At the center of it all is Executive Chef John Teah, whose innovative culinary style brings fresh excitement to timeless classics. Combining refined techniques with vibrant flavors and Southern hospitality, Chef Teah creates dishes that are both comforting and extraordinary. Whether you’re savoring a leisurely brunch, gathering for an elegant evening meal, or discovering a new favorite dish, the Venetian Dining Room offers more than a meal — it’s a true Hot Springs dining experience steeped in history, flavor, and unforgettable charm.
239 CENTRAL AVE. | HOT SPRINGS | ARLINGTONHOTEL.COM
Since 1974, Arkansas Times has LOVED supporting local restaurants.
Now let’s show these Foodie Guide restaurants some love. Attic Bar Back Home BBQ Big Bad Breakfast Cache Ciao Baci Doe’s Eat Place Eat My Catfish 10 JUNE 2026
ARKANSAS TIMES
Faded Rose Four Quarter Bar Hill Station H.A.M. Midtown Billiards Problem Child Pizza Southern Tail Brewery
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Tacos Godoy Taco Mama The Taco Society The Venetian Dining Room Trio’s Waldo’s Chicken White Water Tavern
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JUNE 2026 11
Eat Well, Drink Well, Laugh Often, LIVE LONGER! ANNIVERSARY
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SHARING OUR LOVE, PASSION AND HOMEMADE FOOD WITH YOU!
14710 CANTRELL RD SUITE 1A LITTLE ROCK, AR, 72223 (501) 501-779-0806 TACOSGODOYLR.COM
12 JUNE 2026
ARKANSAS TIMES
Thanks to all of our friends, family and wonderful guests for their support over the years. Cheers to many more! 605 N. Beechwood | 501-603-0238 | ciaobacilr.com
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JUNE 2026 13
Southern Tail Brewing
From SCRATCH to SOPHISTICATED this is FOODIE HEAVEN. With everything from farm-to-table fare to award-winning fine dining, this is a place for anyone with good taste. So treat your tastebuds to an adventure. You won’t just like your time here, you’ll Love You Some Little Rock.
LITTLEROCK.COM 14 JUNE 2026
ARKANSAS TIMES