Mikey's post covers most of the bases but I'll add some additional local color and flavor: Little Rock Ethnic: Note: Coming from New York, I can't imagine any Arkansas ethic restaurant in the conventional sense (Thai, Indian, etc.) comparing favorably, so I agree you should likely avoid that type. Barbecue is a better bet. Sim's Barbeque (33rd and High St.) is a classic hole-in-the-wall barbecue joint. Great ribs and pork in a vinegary-mustard sauce that's unusual for these parts. Ambiance: beer (and much malt liquor) served in quart bottles in an authentic joint. Great for lunch. I've not dared go there after dark. Whole Hog Cafe (mentioned elsewhere) is great food but in a strip mall; Sim's experience may be more what you're looking for. David's Soul Food (S. Broadway) is not that well known but has good soul food. About to be discovered as FoodTV's "Best Of" recently filmed a bit on it for airing later. Your Mama's Good Food (downtown, lunch only) is cafeteria style but great meat loaf and wonderful homemade rolls as big as your fist. Upscale: 1620 is probably your best bet for a white table cloth, up-scale dining in Little Rock. Hot Springs Upscale Chef Paul's. Don't let the discount strip mall fool you. Some really wonderful, fine dining here. Chef/owner is a transplanted from New York (Albany?), which might be of interest to you. Horseshoe Vineyard. I have reservations for next month but haven't tried though hearing absolute raves. Chef is young guy from Arkansas who worked in San Francisco for years (most recently at Cafe Tiramisu). It's really about 15 miles outside Hot Springs but worth the drive from Little Rock I hear. Ethnic McClard's Barbecue is almost universally loved. Place is largely preserved from 50's as are several waitresses, but I personally think Sims or Whole Hog in Little Rock is better. Cafe Santa Clare. Small, funky place in an old house. Family run. More of a South American Latin style than Mexican. We enjoy it a lot.
