CASH ASHLEY
Tell us about yourself and what you do for a living?
I am the Head Chef at Raduno Brick Oven and Barroom in the South Main (SOMA) district of downtown Little Rock, Arkansas. I spend most of my time at work, but when I am not working, you can either find me hanging out at home with my dog, Ollie, and my 4 cats, and/or with my darling girlfriend, Stephanie. I love eating out, especially at local restaurants, going to live music shows, riding my bike, drinking coffee, and late night walks. As far as work is concerned, at Raduno we have a strong focus on local produce, and a dedication to making as much as possible from scratch. We do pizza, house made pasta and desserts, salads, and sandwiches. We also have a great beer, wine, and cocktail program, with lots of local beer on draft.
How long have you been living in Little Rock?
I was born and raised here, so besides extremely short stints in Memphis and Atlanta, I’ve been here about 38 years.
Cash Ashley (Photo by Sara Reeves Photography)
What are your favorite places to go for a cocktail and/or dinner?
A few of my favorite places to go for dinner are The Pantry, Ciao Baci and El Sur. The latter two are Queer-owned. Luckily for me (since I don’t drink) all 3 have great non-alcoholic drink options, in addition to having excellent food. More than anything, I’m a huge coffee nerd, and I love going to either Fidel & Co or Boulevard Bread Company.
What cultural attractions are a must see for visitors to Little Rock?
Definitely the newly reopened Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. I’m lucky enough to live just a few blocks from it, and it’s absolutely stunning. I’d also recommend the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum—it has great views and really cool exhibits.
A friend is coming to Little Rock for the first time. Please describe the perfect weekend.
Mine will be primarily focused around food, since that’s mostly what I think about. Friday night they should go to a show at White Water Tavern. Saturday morning, either get coffee and donuts at Shipley Do-Nuts if you want something quick (plain glazed and blueberry cake, specifically), or go sit down and have breakfast at The Root Cafe. Order the pancakes and biscuits and gravy. I personally like to grab a latte at Boulevard Bread Company across the street to drink while I’m waiting in line, as its counter service, and on the weekends there’s gonna be a long line! It’s well worth the wait, though. Either before or after breakfast, pop out to Me and McGee Market and check out all the local produce, as well as the beautiful market itself. I’d then recommend they go on a walk at the Big Dam Bridge; it has stunning views. Dinner at Ciao Baci, outside on their porch if the weather is nice enough. After dinner, walking around that neighborhood, Hillcrest. Later that evening, either go to Club Sway if you’re more into incredible drag shows and theme parties; or go see what’s happening at Four Quarter Bar, and grab a spam, egg, and cheese sandwich—it’s insane. For Sunday brunch, it’s gotta be Raduno —forgive the shameless self promotion. Either before or after brunch, check out the Bernice Garden Farmer’s Market, and walk around SOMA. There are lots of great shops and food spots all around that neighborhood. They also must pop by The Bagel Shop and get something to go. The menu is rotating, but it’s all incredible, so get anything and everything.
Raduno (Photo Courtesy of DERO)
What are the best places to truly enjoy the natural beauty of the area?
I personally like to either walk the Big Dam Bridge, or just go down to one of the parks by the river. I like being near the water. I don’t get out as often as I should, but Pinnacle Mountain also has beautiful views. Riding the River Trail, either the whole thing or just a part of it, is always so beautiful, as well. I’ve really been wanting to go on one of the guided kayak tours that Rock Town River Outfitters does. It looks really cool, so I have to recommend it even though I’ve not yet done it myself.
What is your favorite time of year in Little Rock and why?
I love the holiday season, both because I’m a Christmas nerd and because I enthusiastically prefer the cold to the brutally hot Arkansas summers, most of which I spend in a hot kitchen. I’m also obsessed with Christmas lights (and Christmas music, much to the chagrin of my crew), so I really enjoy when all of downtown is lit up for the holidays. It just feels magical to me. It also brings more out of town guests to the restaurant, which I also enjoy. Feels nice to treat out-of-towners to a really cozy, delicious dinner.
What locally made product would you recommend that visitors bring home for their friends or family?
If it’s a quick enough trip home, one where you could bring food along, I would say absolutely anything from The Bagel Shop; more specifically an everything scone, a pizza bialy, and/or the egg and cheese breakfast sandwich, which is absolute perfection. You also need a cookie from there. And whatever drink they are making that day. And more bagels with whichever of their rotating cream cheese spreads suits your fancy. Trust me.
Please finish this sentence: Don’t leave Little Rock without…
Going to White Water Tavern.
