1620 is one of Little Rock's finer dining establishments and I must say the menu is just about as eclectic as they come (on a recent visit - Artic Char served with Butternut Squash Soup and Water Cress, finished with Tomato Marmalade - I told the executive chef, Tim Morton, he needed to bottle that marmalade - his grandma's recipe) - so you'll have to be on the adventurous side.  But I do have some  travel experience, extensively in the contiguous United States and not as extensive outside the country - so I have been to my share of restaurants and am quite open when it comes to trying new foods - that's why it's really no stretch that I might find something on the menu at 1620 that I can appreciate.  Although, I will tell you unless you're having a chicken entree, you better budget for this one.

The restaurant, itself, opened about 20-years ago, but the reigning chef supreme, the legendary Evette Brady, took over in the early 90's after a tour of duty at the finest eateries in the city.  1620 enjoys the same reputation it established with Evette at the helm, under the new executive chef, Tim Morton, her nephew.  Owner Evette is semi-retired.

Tim runs a pretty tight ship, though.  I asked him on a recent visit what he thought about the antics of the tv chef from Hell's Kitchen - while not suggesting that he demonstrated similar behavior, he did say he certainly understood that chef's passion about his craft.  And an interesting note, Tim shared a quote from his grandmother - she told him, you train to be a chef, but you cook from your heart! 

Tim also says while 1620 prides itself in fresh quality offerings, the restaurant is trying to be more mindful of the pocketbook in these tough economic times- so he will be running some specials that will be pleasing to your palate and even friendlier to your bank account.

The restaurant, located at 1620 Market St in west Little Rock, is small and intimate, making for a perfect romantic setting.  The ambiance is more appropriate for adults but children are welcome and they will provide a kid-friendly meal, although one is not specifically listed on the menu.  They also have a private dining room. 

The restaurant has a small bar, but more impressive - a Sommelier - wine steward or wine expert.   Jeffrey Nelson has his certification from London and says he is more than happy to introduce you to wines you might not have heard of or tried before and loves to suggest wine/food pairings.  Their wine runs the gamut - from a moderate price by the glass to the more expensive varieties by the bottle.  Jeff says it's that unique combination of food and wine that makes for the ultimate dining experience at 1620.

But Tim will also quickly give credit to his entire staff, saying it took some doing to assemble the perfect mix of talents and capabilities.   Many on the 1620 crew have worked extensively in the best establishments in the city, if not the country. 

I love the salmon at 1620 and their signature dessert souffles are to die for (Grand Marnier along with peanut butter and chocolate - to name a couple).  I don't know of any other restaurant in the city that does them.  If you know of one, let me hear from you.  Other menu offerings include the mini-loaf bread that consists of sweet, wheat and pumpernickel varieties and fresh fish along with other seafood entrees flown in daily- recently offering razor clams - named for their sharp shell and resemblance to a straight-edge razor.   Tim also hangs his hat on their steaks, chops and even calf-liver.  You might think some of it sounds "hoy tie toy tie" - when asked about that, Tim answers emphatically, "not so" - saying everyone from the construction worker to the C-E-O can find and appreciate something on their menu.

Reserverations are recommended but not required.  The restaurant is now offering Sunday wine events - contact 1620 for specific information.   Friendly long-time floor manager Robbie Smith will be happy to take care of you.

1620's hours of operation are Monday - Saturday 5:30 - 10:00 pm.  Sunday 4 - 8 pm.  In my opinion, 1620 is more suited for adult dining.  Moderate to Expensive.  For your convenience, the phone number is (501) 221-1620  Address:  1620 Market Street, Little Rock

Credit Cards Accepted

Website:  www.1620restaurant.com