Little Rock's Asian food scene is a hidden treasure that doesn't get the recognition it deserves. From Vietnamese pho joints on Cantrell Road to Japanese izakaya-style dining, the city offers authentic, delicious Asian cuisine that rivals much larger cities.
Pho Thanh My on Cantrell Road serves the most soul-warming pho in Central Arkansas. The broth is rich from hours of simmering, the portions are generous, and the price is incredibly reasonable. This is the real deal — no shortcuts, no fusion gimmicks. Just perfect pho. Read the Full Guide →
Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co. in the River Market is a Little Rock success story. Their hand-pulled noodles are made fresh in front of you, and the pan-fried dumplings are crispy on the bottom and juicy inside. The quick-service format makes it perfect for lunch. Read the Full Guide →
Kemuri in the Heights brings a Japanese robata grill concept to Little Rock, featuring charcoal-grilled meats, izakaya-style small plates, and a sake list that will impress even seasoned Japanese food enthusiasts. The omakase nights (when available) are extraordinary. Read the Full Guide →
Zangna Thai Cuisine on North Bowman Road is west Little Rock's most reliable Thai kitchen. The pad see ew is a safe bet, but regulars order the drunken noodles Thai hot and the Bangkok Mango — shrimp and scallops in panang curry with fresh mango. Lunch plates run $13.95. Read the Full Guide →
Red Bowl Noodle & Dim Sum in the Galleria Shopping Center on North Rodney Parham serves dim sum all day, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week — no weekend-only window. Order har gow, siu mai, and char siu bao off the checklist, then add a bowl of ramen or dry-fried beef chow fun. Read the Full Guide →
Cooking at home? Three Asian grocery stores sit within about a mile of each other on South University Avenue — Asian Super Market, Mr. Chen's Oriental Supermarket, and Sam's Oriental Store. Between them you'll find fresh produce, seafood, house-made kimchi, and imports no mainstream grocery carries. Read the Full Guide →
Mike's Café on Asher Avenue is one of Little Rock's best-kept secrets — a family-run spot serving hearty, home-style Asian comfort food at prices that'll make your wallet smile. From savory stir-fries to warming noodle soups, Mike's is the kind of neighborhood gem where regulars are greeted by name and the portions are always generous. Read the Full Guide →
Dining tip: Many of these restaurants are family-owned businesses that have been quietly perfecting their craft for years or decades. They're not flashy, but the food speaks volumes. Go with an open mind, ask the staff what they recommend, and be prepared to discover your new favorite meal.
