The best cafes in Pulaski County

Fidel & Co Riverdale is where Little Rock’s coffee nerds and normal people happily meet in the middle. Beans from Finca Santa Rosa get handpicked, cupped, and roasted with care, then brewed right by baristas who actually talk immersion vs percolation... and make it taste great either way.

From the Little Rock newsletter, September 21, 2026

Whether you need a weekday jolt or a lazy Saturday pick me up, Dark Side Coffee Company delivers small batch roasted, responsibly sourced cups that taste like someone actually cared. Try the Dark Side Fall Nitro with vanilla sweet cream and cinnamon, or a fruity Green Tea Refresher, then grab beans to brew at home.

From the Sherwood newsletter, September 12, 2026

Counter-serve bakery/cafe chain serving sandwiches, salads & more, known for its bread & free WiFi.

Fidel & Co Downtown pours coffee with serious intent, from cherries grown at Finca Santa Rosa to careful cupping and roasting that actually respects your taste buds. If you like knowing your morning came from good people and patient craft, this spot earns a regular rotation.

From the Little Rock newsletter, September 29, 2026

Fidel & Co Coffee Roasters doesn’t just pour caffeine, they serve coffee grown at Finca Santa Rosa, roast their own beans, and let skilled baristas brew with care, so your cup actually tastes like something... clean, balanced, intentional.

From the Little Rock newsletter, October 15, 2026

Nexus Coffee Roasters is the Little Rock crew obsessing over specialty roasts, from bright single origins to the Lighthouse blend with milk chocolate, toasted nuts, and a hint of citrus. Local and family operated, fair trade minded, plus coffee classes and a coffee cart for events.

From the Little Rock newsletter, October 22, 2026

R & M Coffee Bar & Lounge is the community-rooted modern coffeehouse downtown locals claim as their third place, with chef-crafted coffee, breakfast favorites, light lunch options, pastries and curated charcuterie, plus the vibe to linger, catch up, or plot your next big Little Rock thing.

From the Little Rock newsletter, October 8, 2026