Going gluten-free in the heart of Southern comfort food can feel intimidating. When my doctor first suggested it more than five years ago, I braced for a life without some of my favorites. What I found instead was a city that adapts. Little Rock not only offers nationally recognized healthcare, it also makes it surprisingly easy to eat well with dietary restrictions.
From cozy brunch spots to standout dinner destinations, here are some of my favorite gluten-free dishes around the city.
Entrées
At Bossa Nova, the salpicao and salmon cakes are both flavorful and satisfying without feeling like substitutes. Trio’s Restaurant delivers with its chicken enchiladas and Thai shrimp curry, dishes that prove gluten-free doesn’t mean sacrificing depth. For comfort food done right, The Root Cafe serves up a gluten-free fried chicken that still hits all the right notes. Over at BCW, the brie grilled cheese is indulgent in the best way. And Rex’s offers standout options like chicken schnitzel and crab fried rice.
Breakfast & Brunch
Brunch is far from off-limits. The Buttered Biscuit makes it easy with gluten-free biscuits and gravy and strawberry cheesecake pancakes. The Terrace serves up waffles worth waking up for, while The Root Cafe continues to shine with its gluten-free pancakes. And for a true treat, Dempsey Bakery is a must-visit for cinnamon rolls that don’t feel like a compromise.
Sweet Treats
When it comes to dessert, Little Rock hits the sweet spot. Dempsey Bakery has cookies that rival any traditional bakery. Loblolly Creamery offers waffle cones and ice cream that make gluten-free feel effortless. And for something a little more elevated, the bananas foster at Cache Restaurant is a standout.
Living gluten-free here isn’t limiting, it’s just a different way to explore the city’s food scene. Happy eating.
Mallory Nelson, Manager, Talent Attraction & Retention, Little Rock Regional Chamber
