Coming Full Circle

The Circle
318 Main Street, North Little Rock, Arkansas
501-244-9599

An eatery with a sense of humor.

Brand new in the Argenta district of downtown North Little Rock, I almost didn't find this place. I was aware of it's existence through word of mouth, but literally drove past it the first time without seeing it. It's located in a quaint old storefront that used to be a bank as evidenced by the rather large safe in the wall next to the beer cooler. (A surprisingly well stocked beer cooler, but more about that further on...) When I asked about the safe, they said they had not been able to get it open, so this is also an eatery with a mystery...

The food is no mystery, and there's a little (or a lot) of something for everyone here including die-hard vegans (stinkin' hippie tofu dog). The "French Quarter" sandwich was good and filling with three kinds of meats, cheese and an olive tapanade that was served on marble rye bread. The "Circle Up" sandwich looked really good, but I didn't get to try it. The turkey served here is 100% natural which I think is a good thing without making too much of it.

I think the tuna salad is somewhat unique with a "touch of pesto" along with the usual apples, walnuts, etc. The apple and walnut were finely chopped so as not to intrude on the consistency of the spread. I think this makes for a better sandwich. The pesto just made its presence known without being overpowering and I really think this is worth a recommendation.

The hummus is home-made and I fully intend to try that next time I'm in. I did try the Chili and can extrapolate that the Argenta Chili Dog is probably quite good. If you like your chili with a kick, you may want to request some hot sauce with it.

I forget how many beers and ales they told me they have at the Circle, but it is one of the most diverse selections I've seen and you'd be hard pressed not to find something to your liking in the selection. They also offer mimosas and something called a Donkey Punch. The Donkey Punch is only $5.00 and that's something I've always wanted to try, but I suspect that it's really hard on the wait staff...

Moderately priced, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly staff, open breakfast through dinner, 9:00 to 9:00.