Lassis Inn

 

Lassis Inn is one of the oldest Black-owned restaurants in Arkansas. Founded in 1905 by Joe and Molassis Watson—whose nickname “Lassis” gave the restaurant its brand name—it began as a humble sandwich shop run out of their home.

 

When it operated at 518 E. 27th St., in Downtown Little Rock from 1969 - 2024, Lassis Inn was renowned for its catfish and buffalo fish ribs. Beyond its culinary reputation, it holds a significant place in American history. During the Civil Rights Movement, it served as a safe haven for African Americans—a place where community members could gather to discuss racism, freedom, and social change. Civil Rights leader Daisy Bates, mentor to Ernest Green and the Little Rock Nine, frequently met with other activists at the restaurant in the years leading up to the desegregation of Central High School in 1957.

 

In 2020, Lassis Inn received national recognition when it became the second restaurant in Arkansas—alongside Jones Bar-B-Q Diner in Marianna—to be honored with the James Beard Foundation’s America’s Classics Award. This prestigious award is given to locally owned restaurants that serve quality food, have timeless appeal, and reflect the character of their communities.