Weekly theme listings reflect a range of dining possibilities in central Arkansas, across a spectrum of settings and price ranges. Reviewers' visits are anonymous and all expenses are paid by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Bargain means a meal (without beverage or dessert) is typically less than $12. Moderate is $12 to $25. Expensive is $25 and up.
Mexican
UPDATE! CACTUS JACK'S
4120 E. McCain Blvd. (McCain Crossing shopping center), North Little Rock, (501) 945-5888
The accommodating restaurant serves ample portions with potent cheese dip and salsa. (The west Little Rock branch recently closed.)
Lunch, dinner daily. Full bar. Bargain.
CANCUN
1524 W. Main St., Jacksonville, (501) 985-3300
A gracious staff serves an extensive menu of reliably standard fare at this lively business.
Lunch, dinner daily. Full bar. Reservations. Bargain.
CASA MANANA
6820 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, (501) 280-9888; 18321 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, (501) 868-8822; River Market, 400 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock, (501) 372-6637
The salsa and the guacamole are top-drawer at the no-nonsense sit-down locations, which excel at seafood (including a garlicky Catfish al Mojo de Ajo) and offer a fine weekend breakfast. The River Market branch is a well-stocked taqueria.
Lunch, dinner daily; breakfast Sun. Full bar. (River Market: Breakfast, lunch Mon-Sat. No alcohol.) Reservations Mon-Thu. Bargain.
CASA MEXICANA
6929 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, (501) 835-7876; 13120 Crystal Hill Road, North Little Rock, (501) 812-2074; 4091 E. Kiehl Ave., Sherwood, (501) 833-2787
This easygoing eatery serves solid fare swiftly; the Crystal Hill location has the most inviting patio.
Lunch, dinner daily. Full bar. Bargain.
EL PORTON
12111 W. Markham St., Little Rock, (501) 223-8588; 5507 Ranch Drive, Little Rock, (501); 868-7333; 5021 Warden Road, North Little Rock, (501) 753-4630
The menu offers a wide array of Mexican appetizers, soups and salads, meat and vegetarian entrees and specialties, served hot, fresh and fast.
Lunch, dinner daily. Full bar. Bargain.
LA HACIENDA
3024 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, (501) 661-0600
The Alvarez family-owned restaurant's fast, fresh, efficiently served brand of authentic Mexican cooking has inspired a cult following.
Lunch, dinner daily. Full bar. Reservations (six or more people). Moderate.
LAS PALMAS
4154 E. McCain Blvd., North Little Rock, (501) 945-8010; 10402 Stagecoach Road, Little Rock, (501) 455-8500; 786 Elsinger Blvd., Conway, (501) 329-5010
This mini-chain offers a huge menu (don't miss the top-notch tamales), swift and systematic service and low prices.
Lunch, dinner daily. Full bar at North Little Rock, Little Rock sites. Reservations vary by location. Bargain.
TAQUERIA EL PALENQUE
9501 N. Rodney Parham Road, Little Rock, (501) 312-0045
Top-notch tacos and other authentic Mexican fare (don't miss the guacamole) come quickly out of the kitchen and in generous portions.
Lunch, dinner Tue-Sun. Beer. Bargain.
TORTAS MEXICO
1000 W. 37th St., North Little Rock, (501) 771-1341
An impressive list of tortas, some fine specialty plates, huge portions and a clean, bright decor make this authentic Mexican place well worth the visit.
Late breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. No alcohol. Bargain.
Weekend on 01/21/2016