I revisited the hamburger spot at my colleague Scott Inman's recommendation.  He suggested we go to one of the favorite places he takes his family.  Having small children can be more than a notion when you're trying to enjoy dining out.  Kids can be your pickiest and busiest customers.  But Purple Cow has you covered.   The extensive menu runs the gamut, from grilled cheese and hamburgers, to spaghetti and salads to peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

 The kids love the food but rave about the handmade milkshakes, particularly the purple variety.  Despite the vibrant purple hue, the flavor is vanilla, specially made for the restaurant by Arkansas's own Yarnell's.  Now they're even packaging purple pie for the restaurant.  The nearly 20-year-old 50's style diner on Cantrell has the ambiance of yester-year that truly gives you a family feel.  The kids aren't the only ones who appreciate the menu, I spoke with a number of adults (kids at heart) who love the milkshakes.  Purple Cow now even serves shakes of the "for grown-ups only variety" - they are infused with liqueurs.

I asked manager Patrick Carroll about the restaurant's unique name and concept.  He's more than qualified to answer since he's worked at the Purple Cow for 15-years. He says the previous owner came by the name after reading a children's poem about a purple cow.  His decision was a hit.  Over the years, the restaurant has expanded its menu and locations and includes Sunday brunch.  Among the dinner entrees, pork tenderloin and pot roast.

After-school specials are especially appealing to kids and families - you can find out more about them on the restaurant's website. Future plans include a new location in the Spa City - The Shoppes at Central Park.  Beyond the natural state, the Arkansas-based restaurant has locations in Dallas, Fort Worth and Plano, Texas as well as Chesapeake and Virginia Beach, Virginia.  Purple Cow managers are currently making celebration plans for marking their upcoming 20th anniversary.   I was particularly impressed with the Purple Cow's philosophy of being committed to the community.  They partner with a number of public service agencies and schools to offer incentive packages as  part of a reward program.  You go Purple Cow!!!!  

It is obviously the place for kids - and as their motto says - "the young of all ages."  Carroll says they pride themselves in offering fresh food, great service and even better time.

Purple Cow's hours of operation are Monday - Friday, 11 am - 9 pm; Saturday - Sunday Brunch, 9 am - 2 pm;  (Lunch and Dinner) 2 pm - 9 pm.  The location at 11602 Chenal Parkway closes at 10 pm on Saturday's.  Prices are inexpensive.

They do have take-out.  For your convenience, the number is (501) 221-3555  Address:  8026 Cantrell, Little Rock  or 11602 Chenal Parkway.

Credit Cards Accepted

Website:  www.purplecowlr.com