Brood and Barley

Brood and Barley is a vibrant gastropub nestled in the heart of North Little Rock at 411 Main Street, offering a delightful blend of elevated comfort food and craft cocktails in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. At Brood and Barley, the culinary creativity truly shines through their diverse menu, which combines classic pub fare with innovative, gourmet twists that tantalize the palate and leave guests craving more.

The menu is an enticing journey through rich, bold flavors and thoughtfully crafted dishes. Starters like the Deep Fried Olives—pimento cheese stuffed queen olives paired with a tangy lemon aioli—burst with unexpected zest and texture, perfectly priming your taste buds. The Porter Onion Bake layers beer-braised caramelized onions, shallots, leeks, and gooey cheese to create a luscious, savory indulgence. For those who love a punch of flavor, the Crispy Blue Chips deliver creamy bleu sauce with crunchy bleu crumbles and fresh green onion, offering a delicious balance of sharp and smooth.

Dive into the heartier selections like the Raclette Burger or the uniquely satisfying Scallops and Pork Belly Sliders, which perfectly marry layers of succulent pork belly and tender scallops in a harmony of flavor and texture. The Meatloaf Sandwich surprises even skeptics with its moist and creamy texture, and the Shell Belly Sliders showcase a delightful seafood twist. For diners craving classic comfort, the Mac and Cheese and the Fish and Chips are executed with a gourmet touch, elevating familiar dishes to new heights.

Beyond the dishes, Brood and Barley impresses with a carefully curated drinks menu. Craft cocktails like the Classic Sazerac and expertly mixed espresso martinis make an exquisite pairing to the meal, while the selection of local brews includes delights like the Hazy IPA. Guests rave about the bartenders’ skills and the quality of their drinks, with one customer admiring “the best clear ice in town” — a small detail that reflects the establishment’s commitment to excellence.

The ambience is buzzing yet inviting, a “busy little gastropub” that draws both locals and visitors. Diners often arrive before events at nearby Argenta Community Theater, enjoying a well-paced meal with attentive service that adds to the overall experience. The friendly staff strike a solid balance between professionalism and warmth, contributing to the vibrant energy without ever feeling rushed.

For dessert, the culinary team’s artistry continues to impress. From the smooth, creamy Sweet Potato Molasses Crème Brûlée—an elevated, indulgent twist on sweet potato pie—to decadent treats like the Banana Bread Pudding and Turtle Cheesecake, each bite brings a satisfying sweet finale to an already memorable meal.

In essence, Brood and Barley delivers a gastropub experience that is both comforting and inventive, ambitious yet approachable. Whether you’re savoring the smoky richness of their Beer Cheese Fondue, the fresh brightness of the Hummus Board, or the robust depth of the Ribeye, every dish is crafted with care and flair. It’s a place where classic pub vibes meet sophisticated flavor profiles, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers in North Little Rock and beyond.

For reservations or inquiries, call +1 501-400-8967 and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that balances hearty satisfaction with creative charm at Brood and Barley.