Building Community Through Local Food
Our mission is to build community through local food. Since 2008, we have
worked to foster a sense of connectedness among the individuals, families,
organizations, and business of central Arkansas by offering a focal point for
sustainable activities in the area.
We have delicious burgers, bratwursts, sandwiches, soups, salads, pies,
and pastries that feature fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from small farms in
the area. 100% of the meat and bread and most of the cheese and vegetables
we use are locally grown or produced. We also offer locally-roasted coffees,
homemade grape and apple sodas and ginger lemonade as well as the best of
Arkansas beer and wine (coming soon). In addition, we host a range of activities
from food preservation workshops and guest speakers to music events and art
openings.
Many of our decorations in the cafe are antiques and collectibles from around the
state, such as traditional butter churns, turn-of-the-century canning jars, and
glass bottles from historic Arkansas dairies and soda companies. Our cafe
building has several progressive features: a certified green roof, high efficiency
heating and air and hot water systems, and 100% LED lighting for permanent
fixtures. The outside is landscaped with edible plants like blueberry bushes,
vegetables, and herbs, and fig and bay laurel trees, while multiple varieties of
native perennials provide seasonal color.
Through food, education, and community, The Root Cafe is striving to
help make Little Rock and the South Main neighborhood a better place to live by
creating a more just, sustainable, and delicious food system for central
Arkansas.
