LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Since 2008, the Capitol Smokehouse & Grill has been filling the streets of downtown Little Rock with the sweet aroma of slow-cooked, award-winning BBQ and hearty plate lunches.
Over the years, the fragrance has drawn in the likes of legislators and governors from the State Capitol building located just blocks up the road from the restaurant.
Despite its small size, there’s no doubt that decision-makers have ironed out some BIG deals here.
“There’s a lot of deal-making in this little place,” owner Candy Wilkerson laughingly said.
If only these walls could speak!
“We’re a mom-and-pop type restaurant,” she explained. “We do old-fashioned plate lunches in addition to our BBQ. It’s a good homestyle eatery.”
Wilkerson’s recipes have withstood the test of time— and that’s something she credits for her success.
“Most of my recipes are my mother's,” explained Wilkerson. “I stood on a stepstool in her kitchen and learned as much as I could.”
Despite being known as a BBQ joint, surprisingly the number one seller on the menu isn’t BBQ at all— in fact, it’s the meatloaf!
Using the same recipe as her mother, the combination of nostalgic flavors and Wilkerson’s attention to detail sets this dish apart.
Due to its popularity, meatloaf is a staple on the menu each weekday in addition to the rotating plate lunches and BBQ.
It’s my opinion that a good plate of BBQ’d meat must be accompanied by good sides. Well, the Capitol Smokehouse & Grill checks that box for sure. From green vegetables to starches and casseroles, the sides here are as good as the main dishes themselves!
Take my advice, and save room for dessert! The homemade banana pudding has a reputation of its own and the sweet potato pie is divine.
The Capitol Smokehouse & Grill is located at 915 W. Capitol Avenue in Little Rock. They are open from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Monday through Friday and closed on weekends. The restaurant has a few outdoor tables perfect for nice weather!