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Read More about this safari issue.Win Valentine’s Day With a Romantic Central Arkansas Dinner
Between school drop-offs, packed schedules, and trying to remember what’s for dinner on a Tuesday, planning a romantic night out can feel like just one more thing on the to-do list. Valentine’s Day is supposed to be fun, not stressful, and sometimes the hardest part is simply deciding where to go. This list is for busy moms who want a great date night without doing all the research themselves. Consider it your permission slip to forward this article to your significant other and say, “Pick one and make a reservation.” From cozy Italian spots to classic fine dining with a view, these Central and Northeast Arkansas restaurants are perfect for reconnecting over a really good meal.
Central Arkansas
- Brave New Restaurant | Little Rock
This upscale gem is known for breathtaking views of the Arkansas River and the Little Rock skyline from its dining room and patio. The atmosphere is elegant yet inviting, making it a popular choice for date nights. The menu emphasizes creative American cuisine using fresh, local ingredients. The fresh walleye | a tender Lake Superior fish is a long-standing house favorite, but the Grilled Beef Tenderloin is a personal favorite. Come see what Chef Sean has to offer!
- Allsopp & Chapple | Little Rock
Who doesn’t love a restaurant in a beautiful downtown setting? The moment you walk under the awning and through the glass doors, you are in for a treat. Set in a beautifully restored historic building on Main Street, this modern bistro offers an intimate, upscale atmosphere perfect for a special night. Candlelit tables, exposed brick walls and attentive service create a cozy vibe for couples. The menu is eclectic New American with gourmet flair. The Lobster Crab Mac is often cited as one of their most memorable dishes for a romantic indulgence. In past years, Allsopp & Chapple offered a prix fixe menu with wine pairings for Valentine’s Day.
- Mike’s Place | Conway
This beloved downtown Conway institution is decorated with old brick, wrought iron accents, fountains and lush plants that will make you feel as if you stepped into New Orleans’ French Quarter. This warm, easygoing atmosphere is ideal for a relaxed date night with a touch of Southern charm. Mike’s Place specializes in steaks and Gulf Coast seafood. For a standout dish, consider the pecan-encrusted whitefish drizzled with raspberry bordelaise sauce or my personal favorite, the seafood crepes. No matter what you choose, the elegant presentation is sure to impress your valentine.
- The Grumpy Rabbit | Lonoke – Lonoke may be a small town but it boasts one of the best restaurants in Central Arkansas. Located in a transformed space in historic downtown, the restaurant’s chic farmhouse style and friendly service make it suitable for both special occasions and casual nights out so couples will feel comfortable and cared for. Chef Gregg’s attention to details and pairing incredible flavors makes it worth trip. The entire menu is incredible, but the specials are always outstanding. The Grumpy Rabbit will serve a special Valentine’s Day menu. Reservations are suggested.
- Cypress Social | North Little Rock/Maumelle
This lakeside restaurant and supper club has taken central Arkansas by storm, quickly becoming a popular date-night spot. Cypress Social offers a stylish, rustic atmosphere with a covered deck overlooking a fountain-topped lake that’s the ideal spot for sipping cocktails at sunset. The atmosphere is romantic and upscale, but still welcoming, and the menu features Southern and Cajun-inspired dishes. Cypress Social will offer a four-course prix fixe meal for Valentine’s this year. Choose between Beef Filet Oscar, Fried Quail, Black Sea Bass or Butternut Squash Risotto.
Northeast Arkansas & North-Central Arkansas
- Red Apple Inn | Heber Springs
Located on Eden Isle in Heber Springs, Red Apple Inn has a lovely dining room overlooking Greers Ferry Lake. It’s a classic choice for couples seeking a romantic evening. Book a room at the Inn to extend the romance all weekend long. The dining room has white tablecloths and soft lighting that set the mood. The cuisine blends European flair with Southern favorites. The Short Rib with Wild Mushroom Ragout is a personal favorite. Do note that alcohol is only served to members and guests of the Inn.
- Tavolo Italian Ristorante | Batesville
Italian is a classic choice for a romantic meal and Tavolo is known for its great food and the cozy atmosphere. Complete with soft lighting and a relaxed pace, it’s easy to settle in and enjoy the evening while Tavolo delivers classic, well-executed dishes that feel special without being over the top. Keep your eyes open for their list of Valentine’s specials and make your reservations now. Valentine’s dinner will also include a live performance from local favorite, Ashleigh Rogers.
- Omar’s Uptown | Jonesboro
Located in historic downtown Jonesboro, Omar’s is widely regarded as the city’s premier spot for special occasions. Omar’s features a classy, jazz-infused atmosphere with true “uptown” elegance. The staff here prides themselves on making every visit memorable and it’s the perfect setting for an anniversary or Valentine’s date. The menu spans premium steaks, seafood, and Creole-Cajun-inspired dishes. If the prime rib is on the menu, you won’t regret it.
- CHOW at One Eighteen | Paragould
Chow is an upscale yet cozy restaurant in downtown Paragould that’s stylish and intimate, with an atmosphere that invites conversation over a fine meal. CHOW’s chefs blend creative techniques with hearty favorites and include everything from steaks and seafood to pastas with international twists. With generous portions and beautiful presentation, CHOW at One Eighteen ensures your date night ends on a high note. Don’t skip their housemade dessert specials or their handcrafted cocktails.
- Tamale Factory | Gregory
If your date is a bit adventurous, the Tamale Factory in Gregory is well worth the drive. The Tamale Factory operates out of a rustic converted barn, offering a one-of-a-kind ambiance that’s surprisingly charming. This spot is famed for | as the name implies its hot tamales, which many claim are the best in Arkansas. In true Delta fashion, they also serve up fantastic catfish and family-style aged-to-perfection steaksto go with those tamales. It’s a casual environment, but for the right couple, it can be a unique date night filled with authentic local flavor.
Arkansas has no shortage of locally owned restaurants that know how to do romance right. Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be over-the-top to be meaningful. Sometimes, it’s just about good food, good conversation and letting someone else do the planning for a change. So circle your favorites, send this list along and enjoy a night out that reminds you why date nights are worth making time for. And don’t forget to book a babysitter.
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