Café Africa

Nestled in the heart of the Little Rock Zoo, Café Africa offers a unique dining experience that combines delicious food with a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're taking a break from exploring the Zoo or looking for a delightful spot to enjoy a meal, Café Africa has something for everyone.

At Café Africa, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse menu that caters to all tastes and preferences. From hearty meals to light snacks, our offerings include:

Burgers and Sandwiches: Savor our juicy burgers and freshly made sandwiches, crafted with high-quality ingredients.
Salads and Wraps: Enjoy our fresh and healthy salads and wraps, perfect for a light and nutritious meal.
Kid-Friendly Options: We have a variety of kid-approved meals to keep our youngest visitors happy and satisfied.
Beverages: Quench your thirst with a selection of soft drinks, juices, and coffee.

Make your visit to the Little Rock Zoo even more memorable with a stop at Café Africa. Whether you're in the mood for a quick snack or a full meal, our diverse menu and inviting atmosphere are sure to delight.

Originally constructed in 1934 through the Works Progress Administration (WPA), this historic building once housed the Zoo’s majestic big cats, including lions, tigers, and jaguars. Today, the former Cat House has been transformed into Café Africa, offering visitors a unique dining experience with a view of the elephant yard.

The building showcases the craftsmanship of Silas Owens Sr., a renowned African American stonemason, carpenter, and farmer from Faulkner County, Arkansas. Owens played a pivotal role in the construction of several iconic Zoo structures in the 1930s under a WPA contract, including the Elephant House (originally a concession stand), the Reptile & Tropical Bird House (formerly the Primate Building), and Café Africa (formerly the Cat House). His signature Mixed Masonry style, crafted with native Arkansan stone, stands as a testament to his remarkable skill and enduring legacy.

While dining, you can still see remnants of the original big cat enclosures on the patio, providing a glimpse into the Zoo’s rich history. The mural of K.C., one of the last lions to live in the building, painted above the fireplace, serves as a tribute to its past residents.

The Wildest Value in Town!

Little Rock Zoo Memberships

Family Fun at the Zoo!

Memberships support the Zoo's efforts to promote conservation and education. It is the perfect way to benefit humans and animals, alike!