Capital Bar and Grill

Southern Flavors with a Downtown Twist

Located in the historic Capital Hotel in the heart of downtown Little Rock, Capital Bar and Grill mixes classic Southern cuisine with a touch of upscale flair. With its dark wood interiors, vintage charm, and warm ambiance, this spot offers a cozy yet refined setting just steps from the city’s top music venues.

Capital Bar and Grill is known for its elevated takes on regional staples like pimento cheese, fried chicken, and house-smoked meats. The cocktail program is a standout, featuring craft libations and an extensive whiskey list that pairs perfectly with the menu’s bold flavors.

Why Concert-goers love it

Concert-goers love Capital Bar and Grill for its prime location—less than a 10-minute walk from several major performance venues. The atmosphere strikes a sweet spot between lively and relaxed, making it ideal for both pre-show excitement and post-show wind-downs. Service is known to be friendly and efficient, ideal for those on a tight schedule.

The bar stays open late on weekends, serving up well-crafted drinks and shareable bites that keep the energy going well after the encore. While there's no formal pre-show menu, the kitchen is quick and accommodating—perfect for grabbing a solid meal before curtain call.

Who this Restaurant is great for

• Groups of friends looking to toast the night with cocktails and Southern comfort food
• Solo travelers who want a classy bar experience before seeing a favorite artist
• Couples enjoying a romantic concert weekend in the city
• Fans craving a lively but not overwhelming pre-show spot
• Budget-conscious music lovers who appreciate generous portions and shareable plates

What People Say

Reviews on TripAdvisor and OpenTable consistently praise the charming atmosphere and attentive service. Diners rave about the signature pimento cheese, fried black-eyed peas, and expertly mixed cocktails. Many highlight the bar as a perfect gathering place before or after a night out, with compliments on the ambiance, consistency, and quality.

Guests also love the historic setting, describing it as “retro elegance with a modern menu.” The burger and charcuterie board are fan favorites, and locals often recommend it to out-of-towners as a must-visit downtown spot.

Areas for Improvement

While the menu is well-executed, it’s not the most extensive—so those seeking lots of variety might find it a bit limited. The restaurant can get busy during peak times, especially on concert nights, so reservations are recommended. Noise levels can rise a bit when the bar is full, but it rarely gets overwhelming.

The Bottom Line

With its Southern charm, quick service, and unbeatable downtown location, Capital Bar and Grill is a go-to spot for concert-goers looking to dine in style before or after the show.

Heading to ? Here's Why This Restaurant Fits the Bill

Blending Southern comfort with upscale flair, Capital Bar and Grill offers a warm, vintage-inspired setting that’s perfect for kicking off your concert night. Located in the historic Capital Hotel, this downtown gem serves up bold regional flavors—from house-smoked meats to signature pimento cheese—alongside expertly crafted cocktails and a standout whiskey list. A manageable walk to Simmons Bank Arena, it’s a favorite for those looking to enjoy a stylish meal in a relaxed yet lively atmosphere before the show.