Rock Candy

Conway's dining options are expanding slowly, but surely. But with the temporary closing of Stoby's for rebuilding, we've been left with virtually no options for a proper Sunday brunch. Cue Zaza's Pizza and Salad, one of Central Arkansas' favorites for pizza and salads with fresh, local ingredients. In January, all three locations in Little Rock and Conway began serving brunch. At first I thought, "Brunch pizza? I don't know about that." Now I say to myself, "Oh ye of little faith."

Menu items include their usual pizza and salad options for those seeking something on the lunch end of the spectrum, but there are also brunch pizzas available on Sundays, along with eggs Benedict, chicken and waffles, biscuits and gravy (about $8.50), and plain old Belgian waffles—if waffles with berries and whipped cream can be called "plain."

I walked up to the counter intent on ordering chicken and waffles, yet "Biscuits and gravy, add fried chicken" is what came out of my mouth. In Conway, Zaza's has partnered with Blue Sail Coffee, so I grabbed a mug at the counter and filled my bottomless cup. My friend went with the Petit Jean Salad, a classic choice covered with beautiful cherry tomatoes and some of the best ham around.

It was only minutes before my plate arrived at our table, and upon first bite, joy filled my soul. Biscuits and gravy come with two perfectly-cooked over-medium eggs, though I took those home for later. The scratch-made gravy was flavorful and just very lightly peppery, while the biscuits were hearty and oh-so-complementary of the fried chicken. The fried chicken was also all it's cracked up to be, fresh, with just my kind of batter. I can't wait to try it with a waffle next time.
And the waffles! I saw them being delivered to other tables and they were giant, decadent works of art, thick, and covered with lovely whipped cream and fresh berries.

As usual, Yellow Rocket Concepts has a hit on their hands. In truth, they've made many of my dreams have come true with the addition of brunch to Zaza's offerings. Aside from their excellent food menu, the addition of coffee and $15 mimosa buckets is a Conway Sunday morning game changer.