Shorty Small's in North Little Rock has closed. Newk's Express Cafe is expected to open there in May. 

There's been a flurry of restaurant activity in central Arkansas lately -- details follow.

Shorty Small’s, 4317 Warden Road, North Little Rock, has closed (its locations in Little Rock and Jonesboro remain open). A sign in front of the building says that a franchise of the chain Newk’s Express Cafe (which has a location at 1412 Higdon Ferry Road, Hot Springs) will open there in May.

Saigon Cuisine has moved from 6805 Cantrell Road, Little Rock, to the former Gina’s Sushi at 14524 Cantrell Road.

E’s Bistro and Gourmet Foods, 3812 John F. Kennedy Blvd., North Little Rock, is now serving dinner from 5-7 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays. 

The Joint, 301 Main St., North Little Rock, will open this spring (probably April) next to Cregeen’s Irish Pub. It will feature breakfast and lunch items, pastries, soft drinks, custom-roasted coffees and teas, local beers, wine, free WiFi, lighted reading areas and entertainment.

Victorian Garden, 4801 North Hills Blvd., North Little Rock, will be closed for dinner through the end of January.