8 Amazing Cocktails You Need to Try in Little Rock This Spring

Some of our favorite Little Rock restaurants just released their spring cocktail menus and we are drooling. And, you know what?

Since you enjoyed our posts on local happy hour deals, fall festivities, and fun things to do in Little Rock, we thought you might like to see our suggestions for springtime.

From fresh margaritas to build-your-own martinis, there is a something special on this list to fit everyone’s taste. Trust us, the gang’s all here – vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whiskey, plus wine and beer. 

Go try one (or two) and tell us what you think!

#1: Down the Rabbit Hole

Big Orange Midtown just finished serving up a 90s-themed cocktail menu last fall (Yes, a grown-up Capri Sun was included!), so we knew their plans for spring would be sensational. We were not disappointed!

Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, their new seasonal cocktail menu features one curious concoction you definitely need to try: Down the Rabbit Hole.

This pinkish orange peculiar is made up of gin, rum, thyme liqueur, carrot juice, and lime. Sounds divine!

#2: Sangria

Every Spring, there is one cocktail in Little Rock you can always count on to be sweet and satisfying. It’s the Sangria at Ciao Baci!

The deep red wine mixed with all those notes of citrus is the perfect chilled accompaniment to their chef-crafted menu. 

Try pairing it with the Artichoke Bruschetta or Moroccan Spiced Lamb Chops!

#3: Sparrow Punch Bowl

Need a great date night idea? Reserve a lane at Dust Bowl, knock down some pins, and sip on one of their amazing punch bowls!

While the Sparrow is available year-round, we think it’s the perfect selection for springtime.

To make it, their house-made ginger beer gets mixed with champagne, vodka, pomegranate juice, cranberry juice, and cinnamon syrup. Serve yourself a sip in a glass goblet and say “Cheers!” to warmer weather!

#4: Beach or Bust 

When you think about Spring, what images pop into your heard? 

Most people might say a field of flowers or a hive of honeybees. But this year, Heights Taco & Tamale Co. is taking us to the beach!

Their new seasonal cocktail menu features several standouts, but we are most intrigued by the Beach or Bust.

Fresh-pressed corn and cantaloupe juice get stirred with rum, mint, and lime, then topped with flamingos, an umbrella, and tiny swimmers you need to see to believe!

#5: Jeweled Macaw

If you enjoy a trip to the beach, how about a trip to the tropics? This Spring, Local Lime can welcome you to the jungle on the wings of some beautiful bird-inspired beverages. 

We are most excited about a cocktail they created with mezcal: The Jeweled Macaw.

With some cucumber, mint, lime, simple syrup, soda water, and an herbal liqueur from the French Alps, this beverage is the perfect refreshment to pair with their spicy April special: beer-battered, buffalo-fried shrimp tacos!

#6: DIY Martini

The list would not be complete without mentioning a cocktail crafted at Petit & Keet. They won “Best Cocktail List,” “Best Fine Dining,” and more in the 2021 Arkansas Times Reader’s Choice Awards! 

While they did just release a new cocktail menu, we instead decided to point you in the direction of a fun weekly event exclusively happening this Spring. It’s all about DIY Martinis on Thursday nights. 

For $10, you get to customize your martini to your tastes, selecting the spirit, sweetness level, vermouth, and garnish for your glass. Enjoy!

#7: Strawberry Margarita

Fresh-squeezed margaritas are always on the menu at The Fold: Botanas & Bar. We’re talking classic lime, jalapeño, lemon rosemary, and even spiced pear. 

But this Spring, The Fold is starting a new tradition that supports local farmers and highlights seasonal produce. Starting with a Strawberry Margarita featuring strawberries from West Markham Gardens, you need to experience their Farmer’s Market Cocktail Series.

This cocktail will only be available for the next two weeks before they pick up a new pack of produce and release a new drink, so go try this one while it lasts!

#8: Lost in Paradise 

Before we let you go, there is one last cocktail you need to know about. It’s called Lost in Paradise and can only be found on a trip to The Pantry (West or Crest!). 

Made with Rittenhouse Rye, Amaro Montenegro, blackberry shrub, lemon, and angostura bitters, it’s a strong but sweet drink that’s tastes unbelievable while sitting outside on their patio.

Stop by during happy hour and order Bacon-Wrapped Dates, House Made Ricotta, or Grilled Romaine Hearts to go with it!

PS: If you’re reading this after Spring and missed out on trying these cocktails, we still encourage you to visit these restaurants! The seasons may change, but so do their cocktail menus and there is always a delicious new drink to try. Please drink responsibly!

Photo credit: Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge Little Rock.