Hot In Little Rock

Literally.  When we used to work downtown, Ciao’s was a regular lunch spot and always enjoyed.  Now that we don’t frequent downtown Little Rock as often, we forget about some of these hidden gems.  It’s close to The Rep, too, and they understand the “we have a show to catch!” anxiety that lies just underneath the surface of every theatergoer who dines before a show.

When we arrived, they were already busy (and we were there early!) – always a good sign.  Our waiter was friendly, and obviously busy, but he treated us well.

Wine was poured and entrees were ordered.  We’ll have to come back again to try the appetizers that looked so good!  And to the table came eggplant parmesan, spaghetti and meatballs, and a special that included scallops and crabmeat in a cream sauce.

Oh, need we say more?  We were in heaven.  The comfort food brought to the table was perfect for that cool night.  And the portions were extraordinarily generous.  The eggplant was battered and fried perfectly and topped with a slightly sweet marinara over a pile of fresh spaghetti.

The meatballs were not your ordinary, run-of-the-mill meatballs, either.  They were almost the size of our fist and tender to the touch.  And the scallops melted in our mouths.  Despite the promise of a take-away sack, we didn’t need any.  Before we knew it, the food was gone and it was time to move on.

By the time we left – in plenty of time for the show – Ciao’s was standing room only.  It continues to be a popular place for dinner, regardless of whether you have a show to catch or not.  Now, that’s a good thing.

And as we left, we wondered, why had we let this gem of an Italian bistro fall off our radar?  Well, rest assured, it won’t happen again!

Ciao’s Italian Restaurant
405 W. 7th Street
Little Rock
(501) 372-0238

Reservations recommended.