September 12, 2023

Little Rock's Best Brunch Places: A Foodie's Guide

From fluffy pancakes to delicious mimosas, enjoy a unique dining experience packed with Southern charm. Explore menus, locations and customer reviews of the best brunch destinations in town.

Richard Gargan
Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
Arkansas
Little Rock's Best Brunch Places: A Foodie's Guide
Editor's Note: Brunch Expert is supported by our readers. We sometimes earn commissions when you click through to restaurants or affiliate links.

Discover the compelling charm of Little Rock's brunch scene. With a diverse array of brunch spots ranging from chic bistros to laid-back coffee shops, the city is a gastronomic paradise for food lovers. Whether you're craving fluffy pancakes, savory omelets, or just a perfect cup of coffee, Little Rock's brunch places have got you covered. Experience the warmth of Southern hospitality combined with delectable food at these top-rated brunch places in Little Rock.

Press Waffle Co.

1424 Main St Suite 104, Little Rock

(501) 222-7413

Reviewed by:

Kyle Villa

On a recent visit to Little Rock, I had the pleasure of dining at Press Waffle Co for brunch and I must say, it was truly an exceptional experience. From the steaming cups of coffee and perfect Bloody Mary’s, to the star of the show - the waffles, both sweet and savory, everything was simply delightful. A must-try is their Blackberry Cobbler waffle, which was a hit at our table. The staff here are nothing short of wonderful. Jessica’s friendly demeanor and Jalon's exquisite culinary skills made our visit more enjoyable while Ben ensured our visit was nothing short of perfect by regularly checking in on us. The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes you feel instantly at home - a testament to the fantastic staff on hand. A highlight of my meal was the chicken and waffles complemented by a refreshing pineapple mimosa. Served hot and fresh, the portions were generous and worth every penny. The waffles were so good they didn't even require syrup! The only caveat is the size of the place - it's quite small considering the large crowds it attracts, especially over the weekend. But the beautiful decor and the exceptional service more than make up for it. Despite the crowd, we never felt neglected and our food arrived in a timely manner. In conclusion, Press Waffle Co. is a must-visit when in Little Rock. The superb food, friendly staff, and stunning decor combine to create an unforgettable dining experience. I eagerly look forward to my next visit!

The Root Cafe

1500 Main St, Little Rock

(501) 414-0423

Reviewed by:

Sergio Tuo

The Root Cafe in Little Rock received a positive review, with the visitor enjoying the veggie-heavy options and unique menu items like the Root Benny and the pimento cheeseburger, which was listed among the Top 20 burgers by The Mighty Rib. The reviewer was also impressed by the pet-friendly patio space, the good service from the host, and the fresh and excellent quality of ingredients used. The review mentioned that the cafe's dishes, such as the chocolate chip pancakes and the ham, were delicious and the coffee was of high quality. Despite the counter service set-up, which could potentially confuse those accustomed to more traditional customer service, the visitor found the staff friendly and polite, vowing to return anytime they are in Little Rock for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Trio's Restaurant

8201 Cantrell Rd Suite 100, Little Rock

(501) 221-3330

Reviewed by:

Steven Mejia

Steven Mejia had an exceptional first visit to Trio's Restaurant for brunch. He praised the staff, Stephanie, Amy, and Sarah for their fantastic service during his godmother's surprise party. The food, particularly the Tuscan chicken, was delicious, with Mejia explaining it as the most flavorful cooking he has had in a while. The lively atmosphere and decor of the restaurant were also to his liking, allowing his family to be themselves without feeling out of place. He highlighted the relaxed and easy-going environment, which enhanced his overall dining experience. He was also impressed with the non-intrusive yet efficient service from their waitress. His visit was special as it coincided with his birthday, making it a memorable occasion. It was his first trip to Trio's Restaurant and he is already looking forward to his next visit.

42 Bar and Table

1200 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock

(501) 537-0042

Reviewed by:

Jabra Michaeli

I recently visited 42 Bar and Table for brunch and was thoroughly impressed with the experience. Starting off with a Hennessy Froupe and an Arkansas Mule, the vibrantly dynamic bartenders immediately made us feel right at home. We decided on the breakfast fries with added eggs and didn't anticipate how filling it would be. Despite our defeat, the meal ensured a return visit to try the rest of the menu. Dinner was equally delightful, featuring a lamb shank, salmon and the most delightful crab cakes. Not only was the food fantastic, but the view overlooking the river was truly captivating. The restaurant's ambiance was inviting and comfortable, making it a place I highly recommend. The venue has an upscale yet casual vibe. It's the kind of place you'd want to dress up for, but still feel at home. If I could, I'd give this restaurant more than 5 stars. Particularly, the BBQ brisket grilled cheese was exceptional. The mimosas are served by the bottle- perfect for sharing with friends or family. Not only was the food great, but the servers were friendly and knew the menu like the back of their hand. All in all, 42 Bar and Table offers top-notch service, amazing food, and a cozy atmosphere. I highly recommend giving it a try!

@ The Corner Diner- Little Rock

201 E Markham St, Little Rock

(501) 400-8458

Reviewed by:

Jose Vives

The reviewer had a mixed experience at The Corner Diner in Little Rock. They had the Hot Chicken and waffle and found the accompaniments enjoyable, but found the chicken overly dry. They suggest opting for smaller pieces of chicken like wings or small breasts which are less prone to drying out during the deep-frying process. They also tried the French toast which was extremely thick and tasteful but not outstanding. Nevertheless, they were impressed with the courteous staff and the overall quality of the food. They particularly enjoyed the home fries and biscuits which were fresh and flavorful. Additionally, they praised the house hot sauce, the avocado toast on brioche bread, and the poutine. The quality of the eggs also received a positive comment. They found the diner cute and small with large portions of very good food. They also recommended the mimosas. Despite the price, they felt that the quality of the food and the use of fresh ingredients in well-crafted dishes made it worth the money.

Delicious Temptations-Little Rock

11220 N Rodney Parham Rd #8, Little Rock

(501) 225-6893

Reviewed by:

Abla Johnson

This review recommends Delicious Temptations-Little Rock as the best brunch spot locally. The reviewer is impressed with the affordability of the meals and the quantity and quality of the food. They highlight the exceptional service they received and commend the friendly and efficient staff, particularly a friendly front desk worker named Gabrielle. They appreciate the family-owned business's community-minded approach, particularly in the wake of a recent tornado. The reviewer expresses a fondness for several menu items, including Blueberry Pancakes, Biscuit & Gravy, Eggs Benedict, and the Club sandwich, leaving a high recommendation and a perfect ten-star rating.

Dizzy's Gypsy Bistro

200 River Market Ave #150, Little Rock

(501) 375-3500

Reviewed by:

Gbolo Ashia Mcgowan

The reviewer absolutely adores Dizzy's Gypsy Bistro in Little Rock, especially for brunch. They love the artsy, Instagram-worthy atmosphere and ample space. They were blown away by the food, praising its freshness, flavor, and perfect preparation. The reviewer was especially impressed by the truffle mac and cheese and the adult beverages. They highly recommend this place and consider it one of their favorite places to eat in Little Rock, describing the dishes as some of the most delicious and fancy comfort foods they've had. They appreciate that the portions are generous and that their meals seem to be prepared with love. The reviewer has ordered takeout from Dizzy's multiple times and was always pleased with both the food and service. They also appreciate that it's not too crowded and they were seated immediately upon their visit. They added that the cheese dip with beef, while a bit pricey, is worth it. They found the club sandwich and salad they ordered to be excellent. The reviewer plans to be back as much as possible and appreciates that the food at Dizzy's is consistently good.

YaYas Euro Bistro in Little Rock

17711 Chenal Pkwy, Little Rock

(501) 821-1144

Reviewed by:

Qashat Ahabah Ohare

The YaYas Euro Bistro in Little Rock is a fantastic spot, especially during happy hour. The half-off Gnocchi and $5 cocktails, particularly the Pineapple Smash, are a must-try. Their dishes are served generously, with the Capresse sandwich being a highlight, featuring thick chunks of mozzarella and a healthy serving of pesto. Be aware, seating outside during hot weather can get warm as there are only a few fans, but the great atmosphere and delicious baba ganoush with bread make up for it. The service is commendable, particularly during special occasions such as Mother's Day. Despite having limited vegetarian options, the flexible menu allows for dishes to be modified to one's liking. The live music on the patio adds to the wonderful ambiance, making it a definite return spot. Overall, the YaYas Euro Bistro provides an amazing, semi fine-dining experience with exceptional chefs and hospitable staff.

Copper Grill

300 E 3rd St # 101, Little Rock

(501) 375-3333

Reviewed by:

Rinu Castillo

I recently enjoyed an excellent dinner at Copper Grill in Little Rock with a group of friends. The service was exemplary with our friendly and attentive waiter constantly exceeding expectations over the course of our two-hour meal. Every dish was well-prepared and appetizing, with the bone-in pork chop and stuffed chicken and grits being notable highlights. What really had us in laughter was that we all craved so much sugar in our tea that we ended up with a whole bowl! The appetizers were all fresh and flavorful, particularly the roasted cauliflower. Another high point was the fantastic sampler served on an Arkansas-shaped board. Even when we found the salmon sliders and grilled ahi tuna to be somewhat below par, our understanding server quickly replaced them. We also tried the French dip, which was an absolute delight, both in terms of presentation and flavor - a real foodgasmic experience! On top of that, I had the Blackberry Bourbon Refresher and let me tell you, it was absolutely wonderful - the bartender certainly deserves a round of applause! All in all, Copper Grill offers good food and a variety of options, with friendly and attentive staff who make the experience all the more delightful. We left feeling completely satisfied, and I would highly recommend a visit.

One Eleven

111 W Markham St, Little Rock

(501) 370-7011

Reviewed by:

Alaina Kurtz

I still reminisce about my stay at the Capital Hotel, particularly our breakfast at One Eleven. The pancakes, adorned with homemade whipped cream, walnuts, blueberries, strawberries, and more, were incredibly delicious, and the cheesy grits were the best I've ever tasted. I believe One Eleven is one of the best restaurants you can find at a hotel, making Capital Hotel rival top hotels across the nation. During Easter, we were treated to an excellent brunch. The service was outstanding, the food presentation was artistically beautiful, and the taste exceeded all our expectations. The environment was upscale yet warm and welcoming. The manager, Louis Mourao, ensured we had a fantastic dining experience, being exceptionally amiable. The restaurant is truly outstanding, and I am eager to return. Its brunch is the best in Little Rock, delivering phenomenal service and exquisite food in a beautifully decorated setup. The lavender mimosa is highly recommended. We also attended a party here once, and the service was excellent even with a large table and multiple orders. They have a delightful cocktail list and a decent bourbon selection. We shared some appetizers like a Mediterranean platter and mussels, both of which were commendable. For the main course, I tried the veal ossobuco; the risotto and tomato sauce were flavorful, though I found the veal slightly lacking in salt and seasoning. Despite this minor hiccup, it's a great place for dinner in a fun atmosphere. However, considering the price, I hope for an even better experience next time.

Alley Oops

11900 Kanis Rd, Little Rock

(501) 221-9400

Reviewed by:

Justin Eliopulos

Overall, a very positive experience at Alley Oops in Little Rock. The deluxe nachos with fresh tomatoes and hamburger meat were delicious, as were the steak, onion rings and pie. Although the red beans and rice were too salty and had to be sent back, the restaurant's service was fast and friendly, ensuring that the dining experience remained positive. The burgers and fries were also hot, fresh and affordable - a welcome relief in the current dining scene. The server's assistance in selecting a dessert was appreciated, with the blackberry cobbler with vanilla ice cream being just as delicious as the rest of the meal. Despite being very busy, the wait staff were attentive and well-coordinated, providing excellent service. A hot steak sandwich and potato salad were also enjoyed, and a cobbler was taken home for later. Plans to return were made, and the reviewer highly recommended the restaurant for its food and hospitality.

The Purple Cow Restaurant (Chenal Parkway)

11602 Chenal Pkwy, Little Rock

(501) 224-4433

Reviewed by:

Doug Buyck

The Purple Cow restaurant on Chenal Parkway in Little Rock serves amazing food and the staff couldn't be friendlier. Particularly impressive is the care and attention they give to customers with food allergies, making it a welcoming environment for everyone. The retro diner atmosphere adds to the fun experience and the tunes from the 50's and 60's set a lively backdrop. Quick and attentive service is a given here, with good quality diner food at reasonable prices. The highlight of the meal has to be their chocolate milkshake, which is absolutely fantastic. Although the physical premises could use a little sprucing up, overall the Purple Cow is a fun, welcoming, and delicious eatery that makes for an enjoyable dining experience.

Red Door

3701 Cantrell Rd, Little Rock

(501) 666-8482

Reviewed by:

Lisbet Williams

I recently had my first visit to Red Door for brunch and I can assure you it won't be my last! I went there for a girls' day out and we were served by the most amazing waiter named Will. The food was unbelievable, making Red Door my new favorite spot. I started my meal with biscuits and gravy topped with sausage, which was incredible, followed by a divine Belgium waffle. Our server was full of energy, making the experience all the more inviting. Shrimp and grits were a hit among both locals and visitors in our party. The atmosphere was elevated by great artwork, although service could have been more synchronized. There was a slight delay in serving coffee and a substantial gap in serving eggs. However, the delicious croissant French toast made up for it. Overall, I'm excited to make this my new Sunday brunch spot.

Loca Luna

3519 Old Cantrell Rd, Little Rock

(501) 663-4666

Reviewed by:

Ibana Porter Ii

I recently had brunch at Loca Luna and it was an absolutely delightful experience. We were seated immediately upon arrival in a pleasing atmosphere with fascinating decor. Clint, our server, welcomed us warmly and offered valuable menu suggestions which turned out to be fantastic. The mimosas were a perfect start to the meal and we even got some interesting insights about the place and its owner along with some light-hearted humor. Our main course was a breakfast pizza fresh from the brick oven. Laden with eggs, mixed artisan cheeses, bacon, sausage, and an array of other ingredients, it was simply outstanding. The attention to quality and taste from our server only elevated the experience. I would happily rate this place a 10/10, not just for the food but the overall ambiance and service. As for the pricing, it was more than fair with four mimosas and the pizza totaling $60. We gladly tipped $25 for the excellent service. The mimosas are worth every cent, and the pizza was both generous and perfect for sharing. We also appreciated the thoughtful service extended to our daughter who was offered sliced strawberries and a toy to keep her entertained. This kind of attention to detail made the meal even better. In terms of dinner options, we tried the chicken fried steak and the stuffed grouper, both of which left some room for improvement in terms of flavor and seasoning. However, the chicken fried chicken was a pleasant surprise, arguably the best I've ever had. Overall, despite a few misses, the food was enjoyable and the service was top-notch. I'm inclined to visit again soon to try out their pizza and other offerings. If you're around Little Rock and in the mood for a laid-back yet premium brunch experience, Loca Luna is definitely a place to try.

EJ's Eats and Drinks

523 Center St, Little Rock

(501) 666-3700

Reviewed by:

Franck Blessing Ibukun

I had an absolutely delightful brunch experience at EJ's Eats and Drinks in Little Rock. Their pancakes were heavenly and immensely enjoyable. Having a bar available was a nice touch and increased the range of options for drinks. The food was delectable, the service top-notch, and their chicken and waffles - simply extraordinary. I can't wait to return and explore more of their appealing menu. My first experience at EJ's was overwhelmingly positive. Their food was full of flavor, much credit goes to their creative and industrious owners and management team. I admired the staff's professionalism, particularly our hardworking, pleasant waitress with her lovely hair and infectious smile. They could use some additional staff as it was clear the existing team was working hard. This is an excellent restaurant for those who, like me, appreciate amazing food and good company. The Sunday brunch and mimosas are a must-try. This cozy spot, with its retro video games and darts, is perfect for grabbing a quick bite or enjoying happy hour. Their mimosas are fantastic value at $8 for a bottle. I highly recommend EJ's Eats and Drinks for a brunch experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Big Bad Breakfast - Little Rock

101 S Bowman Rd, Little Rock

(501) 406-0195

Reviewed by:

Michelle Tchatchoua

I recently visited Big Bad Breakfast - Little Rock for brunch and was absolutely pleased with my experience. We were promptly seated and received quick service. I indulged in a fluffy biscuit sandwich filled with eggs, cheese, and chicken sausage, while my friend delighted in a chicken, cheese, and biscuit sandwich - both were wonderful. Later, I savored a BLT omelette with tomato gravy, alongside fries. Others in my party devoured the Creole omelette and pancakes, all of which were top-notch. Despite the restaurant's popularity ensuring a busy atmosphere, I would advise arriving early and dressing comfortably - you will leave satisfyingly full! I have visited twice in the past two weeks and everything I've tasted, from the melt-in-your-mouth French toast to the spectacular creole omelette and the eggs Benny with hash brown and shrimp and grits, has been exceptional. Deciding what to order is a delightful challenge! There aren't many standout breakfast options around, so Big Bad Breakfast is definitely a welcome gem. We plan to return regularly. Kudos to you, Big Bad Breakfast-Little Rock team, keep up the great work!

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

2618 S Shackleford Rd, Little Rock

(501) 225-7100

Reviewed by:

Linda Brian

As a solo diner, my visit to Cracker Barrel in Little Rock was a comforting experience. The homely vibe of the place, complete with a fireplace and vintage memorabilia, added to my overall dining experience. I indulged in a hearty meal featuring the Hamburger Steak, hashbrown casserole, a large salad, and biscuits. The fried pickles with Ranch sauce were a delightful addition as well. Despite the large portion sizes, the prices were quite reasonable. The family-oriented atmosphere added to the charm of the place. Moreover, they have a general store attached to the restaurant, where you can find old-style candies and other items, perfect for a fun shopping spree post meal. The staff is courteous, ensuring you have a pleasant dining experience. Despite some delays experienced during peak hours, the quality of the food and the pleasant atmosphere made up for it. In conclusion, a visit to this Cracker Barrel is recommended for a cozy, comforting, and fulfilling meal.

IHOP

101 N University Ave, Little Rock

(501) 664-2014

Reviewed by:

Yu Berkery

I had a delightful brunch at IHOP in Little Rock. I ordered the chicken fried steak which comes with eggs, hashbrowns, and pancakes. Though the hashbrowns could have been a bit more browned, the meal, overall, was good. The location underwent renovations a few years ago and I must say, the interior is now very pleasant and the restrooms well-maintained. The service was excellent, with courteous and helpful staff. The food was a tad late, but it was prepared exactly as ordered. I particularly want to commend Suzanne who ensured that we had everything we needed. The pancakes here are indeed delicious. I will definitely be returning to this location during my future visits to Little Rock.

Camp David Restaurant

600 I-30, Little Rock

(501) 200-4242

Reviewed by:

Sean Moore

I had the pleasure of visiting Camp David Restaurant during my stay at their hotel a month back. Although I was initially apprehensive due to the mixed reviews, my experience was fantastic. The staff, particularly the ladies, were extremely cordial and even provided a discount on our meal, despite the fact that, according to us, the waiting time wasn't long. They were wonderful with our children, creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The food was delicious, particularly the BBQ ranch flatbread which I would highly recommend. Although the restaurant seemed to be out of some entree items, the food we did receive was enjoyable. The fact that they were open on a Sunday evening was a bonus, as most dining establishments around were closed. The salmon and burger were excellent, the bar was well-stocked and the breakfast buffet had a decent spread. The staff continued to impress with their friendliness and the rooms were pleasing as well. It's located in downtown Little Rock with easy access to major Highways, which is a great plus. However, I would recommend choosing a room on the West side unless freeway noise doesn't bother you. Also, like any other major city, it's best to ensure your vehicle is locked and valuables are safely tucked away. There are homeless people around, like any other major city. Overall, my experience at Camp David Restaurant surpassed my expectations. It's a great choice for brunch, especially for families, offering tasty food and a warm, congenial atmosphere.

Bridges Restaurant & Lounge

424 W Markham St, Little Rock

(501) 508-8156

Reviewed by:

Jake Donovan

I recently had brunch at Bridges Restaurant & Lounge in Little Rock and was truly taken aback by the hospitable and friendly atmosphere that this place radiates. It's conveniently located inside of a hotel, which made it all the more appealing for a hassle-free dining experience. The staff really made an impact on my visit, their friendliness and helpfulness added positively to the overall dining experience. The menu offers a number of appealing options, providing plenty of variety to choose from. I must also commend the bar, offering a broad assortment of drinks to enjoy. Unfortunately, my dinner experience was not up to par. My burger order was not cooked to my preference, being served raw when I had requested it well done. Moreover, my egg was not fried hard as per my request and was served runny. It seemed like this wasn't an isolated issue, as my fellow diners also experienced similar issues with their meals. Despite the meal setbacks, I must commend our waitress, Tracy, who was the highlight of our experience. She was incredibly kind and attentive, ensuring we were well taken care of throughout our meal. Her exceptional service juxtaposed the disappointing food preparation, making the overall experience a bit better. Breakfast, on the other hand, was an absolute delight! Tracy was serving us again and her attentiveness made the experience pleasant. She's definitely someone to look out for when you drop by Bridges Restaurant & Lounge. In summary, although the dinner experience left room for improvement, the friendly staff and great atmosphere at Bridges Restaurant & Lounge led to an overall satisfactory dining experience.

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