
The Purple Cow Restaurant (North Little Rock)
A beloved 50s-style diner famous for its iconic purple milkshake and classic American comfort food. A fun, nostalgic experience for all ages.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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The Purple Cow Restaurant (North Little Rock)

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved 50s-style diner famous for its iconic purple milkshake and classic American comfort food. A fun, nostalgic experience for all ages.
Beat the Lunch Rush
Visit before the main lunch crowd to ensure faster service and a more relaxed dining experience.
Don't Miss the Purple Shake
This iconic purple vanilla milkshake is a signature item and a must-try for any visitor.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American Diner
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(501) 904-7269
Address
4201 Warden Rd, North Little Rock, AR 72116, USA
Website
ilovepurplecow.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Purple Cow Shake
Sip on the legendary purple vanilla ice cream shake, a unique and must-try treat that defines this nostalgic diner.

Nostalgic 50s Diner Ambiance
Step back in time with the fun, retro decor and vibrant purple accents that create a classic American diner experience.

Hearty American Comfort Food
Indulge in classic diner fare, from juicy burgers and crispy fries to generous Cobb salads, all served with friendly speed.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Beat the Lunch Rush
Visit before the main lunch crowd to ensure faster service and a more relaxed dining experience.
Don't Miss the Purple Shake
This iconic purple vanilla milkshake is a signature item and a must-try for any visitor.
Family Fun Nights
Bring the kids on Friday nights for a fun, 50s-themed atmosphere perfect for family outings.
Order Accuracy Check
Double-check your order before leaving to ensure everything is correct.
Tips
from all over the internet
Beat the Lunch Rush
Visit before the main lunch crowd to ensure faster service and a more relaxed dining experience.
Don't Miss the Purple Shake
This iconic purple vanilla milkshake is a signature item and a must-try for any visitor.
Family Fun Nights
Bring the kids on Friday nights for a fun, 50s-themed atmosphere perfect for family outings.
Order Accuracy Check
Double-check your order before leaving to ensure everything is correct.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners praise The Purple Cow for its fun, nostalgic 50s diner atmosphere and its iconic purple milkshake. Many highlight the friendly service and generous portions, especially the Cobb salad. However, some reviews mention that the food quality can be inconsistent, with occasional complaints about overcooked burgers and average taste for the price.
"Blast from the past, this place will take you back to the 50s for sure. :) It's a fun place to take the kids on a Friday night for ice cream:)
Staff was pleasant and helpful.
Steak knife burger and grilled cheese were good.
Hot fudge Sunday and Carmel milkshake were great :)
I didn't order the best hot dog (i wanted to)... but the 6 year old next to me did, and it looked like the best ;)
The place was clean, and so were the restrooms :)"
Steven Stratton
"I was visiting in Little Rock , and was told I had to try the Purple Cow’s purple milkshakes. The aesthetic of the restaurant was cute and warm. We ordered the Purple shake, it was good, but to be honest it tasted like a normal milkshake. We also ordered the sweet potato fry basket which tasted really good . If you want to try something new, I would surely recommend you stop by The Purple Cow☺️"
Nadia Ramadan
"The Purple Cow never disappoints! Good food, multiple options and friendly service!
The Cobb salad is huge with fresh ingredients!"
Dianne Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The Purple Cow is most famous for its iconic purple vanilla milkshake, made with Yarnell's Premium Ice Cream.
Yes, it's highly recommended for families, with a fun 50s atmosphere that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
They serve classic American comfort food, including burgers, fries, sandwiches, and salads.
While not extensively detailed, reviews mention salads and some general items. It's best to inquire directly about specific dietary needs.
Visiting ahead of the lunch crowd is advised for faster service.
Yes, they offer 'adult' (alcoholic) shake and malt options in addition to their classic non-alcoholic shakes.
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Arkansas-Based Restaurant Chains
The Purple Cow is a diner-style restaurant chain that got its start in Little Rock in 1989. It was founded by Ed Moore and Paul Bash, who wanted to create a place where people could come to enjoy classic American comfort food in a fun and nostalgic atmosphere. The Purple Cow is known for its classic diner fare, burgers, fries and their iconic purple milkshake known as the “Purple Cow.” Today, there are over 30 Purple Cow restaurants throughout the state, as well as in Texas, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Missouri.
25 Best Restaurants in Little Rock, Arkansas (2022)
Frequented by families of all ages in Little Rock, Purple Cow is a hit amongst the young and young at heart. First opened in 1989, this fun and nostalgic restaurant was modeled after classic American diners from the 50s with pops of purple everywhere you turn. Thanks to its delicious food, warm service, and welcoming atmosphere, Purple Cow grew to open several other locations throughout central Arkansas and is still very much loved over 20 years later.
The 6 Best Ice Cream Parlors in Arkansas!
With locations in Little Rock, Hot Springs, and Conway, The Purple Cow Restaurant has been painting Central Arkansas purple since 1989. While folks love its classic décor and nostalgic atmosphere, The Purple Cow is best known for its iconic purple vanilla ice cream. This old-fashioned (and purple!) diner and soda fountain is a fantastic family favorite, exclusively dipping Yarnell’s Premium Ice Cream, a Searcy-based family ice cream brand.
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One of the most popular family-friendly restaurants in Little Rock, Purple Cow is a nostalgic eatery that reminds you of authentic 50s diners. This amazing restaurant features pops of purple everywhere you look, and the service is impeccable. Purple Cow expanded across the state, but the Little Rock branch is a local favorite and offers families a warm setting in which to enjoy some quality time together.
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This family-friendly joint is modeled on a 1950s diner, and the fun bright decor is always a hit. The laidback atmosphere is ideal for letting the kids be themselves, and the friendly, efficient service means they won’t get too hungry and impatient. The restaurant’s tagline, “For the young of all ages”, sums up their welcoming attitude, so bundle the kids into your spacious Mazda CX-5 and hit the road.
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This retro diner is a family favorite for the nostalgic atmosphere. They serve up some delicious gourmet burgers and old-fashioned soda fountain treats. Choose from the regular burger menu or steak knife burger menu, the Steak Knife Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burger is a firm favourite, topped with three slices of Applewood Smoked Bacon, two slices of Cheddar, and homemade Ranch Dressing, yum!
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The Purple Cow restaurant on Chenal Parkway in Little Rock serves amazing food and the staff couldn't be friendlier. Particularly impressive is the care and attention they give to customers with food allergies, making it a welcoming environment for everyone. The retro diner atmosphere adds to the fun experience and the tunes from the 50's and 60's set a lively backdrop.
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There are two outposts in Little Rock, but head to the original at 8026 Cantrell Road. This ice cream and burger shop caters to youngsters and the young at heart with burgers, salads, kid-inspired dishes and the most comprehensive listing of ice cream desserts in Central Arkansas. Most days you’ll find more kids than adults at this burger joint.
Best Dessert in Arkansas | VacationHomeRents
More than just a spot for sweets, Kris & Sam’s offers boxed lunches in addition to their Cookies, Cake Balls, Chocolate-Covered Strawberries, and Brownies. Customers can choose from their variety of Sandwiches, Wraps, and Salads to make the sweets all that more worth it. For events, they also offer Cookie Trays and Cookie Cakes.
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The Purple Cow Restaurant has a pretty straightforward theme: the color purple. Designed in the style of a classic 1950s diner, its features include a retro soda fountain, neon signs, and menu items including their signature purple milkshakes and desserts. Take a step back in time, this time with lavender-colored glasses.
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Stop by the Purple Cow Restaurant and experience a delightful 50s-diner-meets-modern-day vibe. The restaurant is known for hand-dipped shakes and vintage soda fountain specialties that spark joy. Favorite dishes include the fabulous grilled tuna salad sandwich, smoked club, homemade chili, and steak knife burgers.
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Purple Cow: Malts, shakes, sodas, sundaes and even ice cream pie are on the menu; in addition to the restaurant’s classic Banana Split, parents can look forward to a selection of adult shakes that include alcohol. 8026 Cantrell Road in Little Rock, (501) 221-3555. Also 11602 Chenal Parkway in Little Rock.
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The Purple Cow sings of 1950’s America with old school decor and homestyle service that just can’t be beat. At The Purple Cow, you’ll find everything from bbq bacon burgers to classic cheeseburgers. One thing’s for sure, you’ll be itching to come back and try the rest of their juicy burgers.
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Try some of their breakfast bash, a Monte Cristo, Belgian waffles, or a BLT & egg sandwich. You can order a burger or a hot dog along with your malt, shake, hot fudge sundae, or fruit smoothie. Or you can even bring your pup here with you for brunch out on the pet-friendly outdoor patio.
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Purple Cow, Alley Oops, Izzy’s, Super 7, Tacos 4 Life, Taco Pronto, Red Door, Taqueria Karina, Chuy’s, Trio’s, North Bar, Prospect Bar, On the Border, Santo Coyote, Town Pump, Blue Coast Burrito, Samantha’s, Boudreaux’s, Markham Street Grill, Gypsy’s, Cactus Jack’s
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A 50’s diner vibe with food to match makes this the place to visit on your next trip into Little Rock. It now has a few locations across Arkansas, but it was founded on Cantrell Road in Little Rock in 1989. Be sure to try the classic purple shake when you visit!
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My first time trying Purple Cow, even though I’ve lived just around the corner for five years—and I was seriously impressed!. The double cheeseburger was juicy, hot, and massive. I’d absolutely order it again.
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Here's the 63 best options (there are more than 63 on this list; some places, such as Big Orange and Purple Cow, have multiple locations) I've found in the Natural State.
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Highest-rated Dessert Shops in the Little Rock Area by Diners
- Rating: 3.7/5 (107 reviews)- Price level: $- Address: 8026 Cantrell Road Little Rock, Arkansas - Categories: Diners, American, Desserts- Read more on Yelp
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Stop by this nostalgic diner that can be found all over the Metro with classic decor serving up burgers, onion rings and their famous purple milkshake.
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Everyone was so friendly, our server was so kind and very attentive. I would highly recommend this place to anyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit