The Box
1023 W. Seventh St., Little Rock
501-372-8735
One of the oldest restaurants operating in the Little Rock area has changed hands throughout the years, but one thing has not changed — the grill top.
The grill has had pieces replaced over time, but it has a unique seasoning to it that no one else can replicate, owner Kelly Joiner said. That is one secret to the burger’s beloved flavor but not the only thing that makes The Box burger beloved by customers, starting with the meat.
“We don’t skimp on the fat in our burgers,” Joiner said.
The Box, which was originally on Main Street, opened in 1948. Joiner took over the restaurant in the early 2000s without any prior restaurant experience at the time. He had worked in the food processing industry and thought The Box would be a sound investment.
In 2010, the Box moved from its original spot to its current location on Seventh Street, where it is open for lunch every weekday.
While the burgers are the star of the show, there are a few healthier options on the menu, including chicken, salads and sandwiches.
General Manager Kayla Sparrow has been with the business for 10 years and knows regulars’ orders by heart, which she said is part of the restaurant’s continued success. Her favorite burger on the menu is The Hot Box, which offers pepper jack cheese, jalapenos, grilled onion and a special sauce.
“Our regulars come in and get treated like family,” Sparrow said. “Titles don’t matter here. Everybody’s the same, and everybody gets treated the same. Everybody gets a little abuse and a little love because I give everyone in here a hard time.”
“We have everyone from suits to construction workers,” Joiner said. “We do our best to treat everybody like family and try to feed them good. If you leave hungry, that’s on you.”
Feature photo by Kayla Sparrow.
SEE THE FEATURE BELOW AND IN OUR OCTOBER 2026 ISSUE OF AY MAGAZINE
