The owners of Allsopp & Chapple restaurant on Wednesday revealed plans for a new dining concept at the former Big Whiskey’s site in downtown Little Rock.
Hazel’s Public House, a burger-focused restaurant, is set to open the corner of East Markham and Cumberland streets in early 2026. The prominent location in the River Market District had been the home of Big Whiskey’s for 16 years before it closed in May 2024.
Arkansas Business reported in July that a local restaurant operator was developing plans for a new restaurant at the 4,500-SF space.
In a news release, co-owners Jay Cowley and Eric Carter said Hazel’s goal is “elevating the classic American burger with premium ingredients.” The restaurant’s signature burger will use 100% black Angus beef sourced from grass-fed cattle raised without hormones or antibiotics.
Each patty, a mix of brisket and chuck, will be seasoned with a house-made spice blend and pan-seared to achieve a flavorful crust, the release said. The burgers will be served on freshly baked brioche buns, made daily in the restaurant’s in-house bakery.
“We’re building Hazel’s Public House on the idea that simple ingredients make the best burgers — we let the natural flavors take center stage,” Carter said.
Hazel’s will also offer a variety of sandwiches, sides, fresh salads and appetizers. The dessert menu will include a selection of pies, all baked in-house. Hazel’s also plans to offer a lineup of craft cocktails, local beer and daily happy hour specials.
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