Most notably recognized for its historical importance, Little Rock is a growing hub of businesses and organizations. I have compiled a list of Black Owned Restaurants for you to try the next time you visit #RockCity. This list is not in any order!
If you have ever tried these places leave a comment below about your experience! Don't forget to check out their social media pages and/or websites for more information over hours of operation and daily deals.
What they offer: Vegan Soul Food
Located near Philander Smith College, the House of Mental Eatery (HOME) has been providing vegan soul food to the city of Little Rock for over 5 years. With large portion sizes, their flavorful food is a healthier alternative to traditional soul food.
The reviews don't do this place justice, the food is 10/10 with amazing customer service. Next time you visit, order the "mac no cheese" and enjoy every savory bite!
You can view them on Facebook and Instagram @TheHouseOfMental.
What they offer: Pizza & Wings
"It ain't real if it ain't certified" is the official slogan over at Certified Pies and we couldn't agree more! Being Arkansas' First Black Owned Pizzeria, their story is unique as the owners did not begin their journey in a traditional sense.
Kreg Stewart and Harlem Wilson are childhood friends and during Stewart's birthday weekend Wilson made him a pizza and it was love at first bite. To learn more about how Certified Pies started, order a pizza online and visit their website.
What they offer: Southern Comfort Food
MaryAnn Strange is the owner and executive chef of YGFBFKitchen "Your Girlfriend's Best Friend Kitchen" with two locations in Little Rock, AR and Conway, AR. What started as a food truck in Conway, AR has blossomed into two thriving locations both with worthy recognition.
Her southern inspired menu features pasta dishes, Cajun gumbo and fried chicken with waffles! Be sure to check out her Instagram or Facebook to view any new menu items added.
What they offer: BBQ Plates & Sides
The original Sim's Bar-B-Que started in 1937 by Allen and Amelia Sims. Sim's Bar-B-Que has won several awards for Best BBQ Ribs and more. With a special sauce made of herbs and spices, it is no surprise that they have been serving our community for over eighty years!
Sim's Bar-B-Que has conveniently established two locations in Little Rock, one off of John Barrow Road and the other near Broadway Street. Ron Settlers owns the Broadway location and Percy Walker owns the John Barrow location.
What they offer: Caribbean Cuisine
This family owned and operated restaurant specializes in bringing traditional Jamaican cuisine to the heart of Little Rock. Their menu features oxtails, curry goat, jerk chicken and other Caribbean dishes curated to burst your taste buds.
Yeh Mon: Authentic Jamaican Restaurant serves each entrée with steamed rice, rice and beans, or cabbage and carrots. Many customers agree that the food is extraordinary; the aroma of the blended spices and fresh herbs imparts a fresh flavor.
What they offer: Sierra Leonean Cuisine
Christian Domingo owns and operates Kontiki African Restaurant located off University Avenue in Little Rock. His restaurant also includes a market that you can browse as your meal is prepared. Domingo is a native of Sierra Leone, having migrated here nearly twenty years ago.
After working as a mechanic for years he pursued his lifelong passion of cooking and providing healthy, yet delicious meals reminiscent of his early childhood. The menu features classic African dishes such as jollof rice and stew, cassava leaves and rice, and peanut butter soup.
What they offer: Vegan Comfort Food
Vegan comfort food never looked so fresh and tasty! After inheriting her family farm, she later decided to prepare vegan food and dishes. Most of the dishes on her menu are named after family members and friends, such as the "Lolita Reuben" or the "Uncle Goober BBQ Jackfruit".
All of the sauces are made in-house from locally sourced ingredients. Aside from vegan dishes, Chef MeMe also provides 100% fruit smoothies and cold pressed juices. Located off Asher Avenue, MeMe's Twisted Potato has daily lunch specials for only $10, Monday through Friday.
Which restaurants should we highlight next? Comment and let us know!
Too Sweet Bar & Grill
4819 Stagecoach Rd.
Little Rock