Memphis is famous for its soulful blues, its pivotal role in music history, and, of course, its legendary barbecue. But to truly know this vibrant city is to dig deeper into its culinary scene. Forget the usual tourist traps for a moment, and discover a world of truly Unique Dining Experiences in Memphis that stretch far beyond the smoky goodness of a pulled pork sandwich. From historic diners to modern farm-to-table marvels, Memphis serves up surprises for every palate, every time of day.
At a Glance: Memphis's Culinary Surprises
- Historic Bites: Dine in places steeped in history, frequented by legends like Elvis Presley and Priscilla Presley.
- Global Flavors: Explore an international food hall or restaurants offering diverse cuisines from around the world.
- Upscale & Innovative: Discover fine dining establishments pushing culinary boundaries with celebrity chefs and James Beard nominees.
- Atmosphere is Key: Enjoy meals in unique settings, from vintage theaters to former beauty salons and vibrant rooftop terraces.
- Sweet Endings: Indulge in classic Southern desserts and innovative sweet treats.
- Beyond the Pit: While BBQ is king, prepare for an expansive array of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and nightlife options.
Rise and Shine: Unique Breakfast Experiences to Kickstart Your Day
Forget a quick hotel continental; Memphis rolls out the red carpet for breakfast lovers, offering charming spots brimming with character and incredible food.
Bishop: Modern Meets Memphis
If you're looking for an innovative start to your day, Bishop delivers. This spot is celebrated for its inventive menu, friendly service, and a clean, relaxed atmosphere. Locals rave about the swift service, even noting how quickly and gracefully they correct a dish that isn't quite right. It's a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction and a perfect example of modern Southern hospitality.
The Arcade Restaurant: Where History Sits at Your Table
Step back in time at The Arcade Restaurant, established in 1919 and proudly holding the title of Memphis's oldest restaurant. This iconic diner is so historically significant it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. But its real claim to fame? Elvis Presley himself was a frequent patron in the 1960s, often requesting a specific booth near the entrance, offering him a clear view via a mirror for a discreet exit. You can even reserve "Elvis's seat" – a truly unique piece of Memphis lore. With appearances in over a dozen major films and countless TV shows, The Arcade offers more than just breakfast; it's a cinematic experience wrapped in a classic diner.
Hustle & Dough, Vice & Virtue: Artisanal Toast and Chill Vibes
For those who appreciate artisanal offerings and a sophisticated coffee experience, make your way to Hustle & Dough, which hosts Vice & Virtue Coffee. While the avocado toast earns high praise from regulars, don't overlook the delightful egg salad toast or the flaky blueberry scones. It's a spot that perfectly marries the city's hustle with its laid-back vice for quality coffee and gourmet bites.
By The Brewery: Grits and Serenity
Looking for a clean, chill, and relaxed start to your day? By The Brewery offers a delightful menu that includes fresh yogurt parfaits, hearty breakfast sandwiches, and even crisp salads for lighter fare. However, the true star here, according to those in the know, is their cheesy baked grits – a comforting, flavorful dish that will have you craving more. They also serve lunch, making it a versatile stop.
Midday Marvels: Unforgettable Lunch Destinations
When the clock strikes noon, Memphis's culinary creativity doesn't skip a beat. Beyond the usual sandwich shops, you'll find places that turn lunch into an adventure. Many of the breakfast spots transition beautifully into lunch, but these next few offer distinctive midday experiences.
South of Beale (SOB): Southern Comfort, Elevated
SOB isn't just a clever acronym; it's a culinary philosophy. This popular spot blends Southern comfort food with imaginative, modern twists. Kick off your meal with their renowned croissant beignets before diving into the luxurious shrimp and grits or a refreshing mixed greens salad elevated with roasted grapes. And for burger aficionados, the SOB burger is a must-try. It’s Southern fusion done right, promising a lunch that's both familiar and exciting.
Beauty Shop Restaurant: A Salon Turned Supper Club
Prepare for an utterly charming and singular lunch at the Beauty Shop Restaurant. Housed in a former salon, the decor embraces its past with vintage hair dryers and retro aesthetics that transport you to another era. Adding to its mystique, Priscilla Presley was a frequent patron. The inventive menu shines with appetizers like grilled peaches drizzled with balsamic glaze and irresistible corn fritters. For a main, the corned beef sandwich served with fresh fruit and a pickle is a standout. This spot consistently earns praise for its creative cuisine and impeccable service, making it one of the most memorable themed restaurants in Memphis.
Global Café: A World Tour on a Plate
Located in the bustling Crosstown Concourse neighborhood, Global Café is a truly special concept. This distinctive food hall empowers immigrant and refugee food entrepreneurs from an array of diverse countries – think Bhutan, Burundi, Germany, Jamaica, Mexico, Nepal, Syria, and Venezuela. Here, you can savor authentic, budget-friendly dishes from their homelands. The hummus plate with falafel is a perennially popular choice, but every stall offers a chance to explore a new culture through its cuisine. It’s a delicious way to support community and expand your palate, truly offering a slice of the world within Memphis.
Dinner Delights: Beyond the Barbecue Pit
While Memphis barbecue holds legendary status – and rightly so (Central BBQ, for instance, has been consistently ranked among the top three since 2003, winning top honors ten times in 20 years for its ribs, wings, and pulled pork with sides like potato salad and banana pudding) – the city's dinner scene offers an incredible spectrum of experiences that venture far beyond the smoker.
Itta Bena: Upscale Ambiance and Southern Charm
For an upscale evening out, Itta Bena offers a rich ambiance that feels both luxurious and inviting. With vaulted ceilings, deep golden-hued chandeliers, and walls adorned with celebrity photos, it sets the stage for a memorable meal. The jumbo shrimp and grits, perfectly paired with wine, and the decadent white chocolate bread pudding with caramel sauce come highly recommended. Just a note: the establishment does not have an accessible entrance, which is something to keep in mind.
Ecco on Overton Park: Cozy European-Inspired Fare
Ecco on Overton Park provides a warm and inviting escape with its cozy, modern decor. This restaurant is celebrated for its delicious cheese plates, perfect for sharing, and main courses that evoke the comforting feeling of "grandma's kitchen," but with an elegant twist. Parking can be a bit tight, so street parking is often your best bet for this delightful neighborhood gem.
Texas de Brazil – Memphis: A Carnivore's Dream
If you have a hearty appetite for meat, Texas de Brazil is a churrascaria that lives up to its "carnivore's dream" reputation. Beyond the endless parade of perfectly grilled meats, their extravagant salad area features an impressive array of chef-crafted seasonal delights. Make sure to try their signature Picanha (top sirloin) and pair it with a refreshing Brazilian caipirinha cocktail for the full experience.
Curfew – Memphis (at Canopy Hotel): Celebrity Chef Creations
Under the culinary direction of Celebrity Chef Fabio Viviani, Curfew, located at the Canopy Hotel, promises authentic dishes, expertly handcrafted cocktails, and a selection of locally sourced brews. The wood-fired Margherita pizza is a standout, showcasing the chef's commitment to quality ingredients and classic flavors. It’s a sophisticated yet approachable spot for a stylish dinner.
Catherine & Mary’s: A Taste of Sicily in Memphis
Helmed by James Beard Nominated Best Chefs Southeast Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman, Catherine & Mary’s crafts a menu that feels like a loving nod to a "Sicilian Grandmother's kitchen." They offer a carefully curated selection of expertly prepared small plates and full entrées. Don't leave without trying their signature Cappuccino Martini – a perfect blend of coffee and cocktail artistry.
McEwen’s: Elevated Southern Cuisine with Flexibility
McEwen’s focuses on elevating Southern cuisine within a relaxed, charming atmosphere. The menu is a journey of sophisticated flavors, featuring highlights like BBQ Duck Confit Enchiladas, a vibrant Fall Feta Salad, and perfectly cooked Chilean Sea Bass. Their famous Banana Cream Pie is the ideal sweet ending. Notably, McEwen's kitchen is very accommodating, offering ample gluten-free and vegan options, ensuring everyone can enjoy a fantastic meal. For those seeking Memphis beloved hidden gems that also cater to dietary needs, McEwen's is a prime choice.
The Majestic Grille: Dinner and a Show Vibe
Imagine dining in a low-light, vintage theater setting, with classic black and white movies silently playing on screens and the smooth sounds of jazz (like Julia Lee's "King Size Papa") filling the air. That's the atmosphere at The Majestic Grille. Their menu boasts homemade soups, savory meatballs, expertly prepared steaks, and delicious flatbread pizzas. Located conveniently near the Orpheum Theater, it’s a popular spot for pre-show dinners and was even voted "Top Place for Rehearsal Dinner" in Memphis in 2023.
After Hours: Cocktails and Nocturnal Vibrations
When the dinner plates are cleared, Memphis truly comes alive with its vibrant nightlife. From historic blues clubs to sophisticated rooftop lounges, there's a spot for every mood.
Beale Street: The Home of the Blues
No visit to Memphis is complete without experiencing the legendary Beale Street. This historic entertainment district pulses with music, dining, and an unparalleled nightlife scene. In the evenings, it's closed to traffic, transforming into a pedestrian-friendly party zone, complete with a visible police presence for safety. You'll find live music pouring from iconic venues like Rum Boogie Cafe, B.B. King’s Blues Club, Silky O’Sullivan’s, Blues Hall Juke Joint, and Ghost River Brewing Co. Remember to stay aware of your surroundings and follow general safety protocols as you soak in the electric atmosphere of Memphis food and live tunes.
Tiger And Peacock: Rooftop Views and Disco Dreams
For a more modern and chic nightlife experience, head up to Tiger And Peacock. This unique rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the city skyline, making it an ideal spot for a sophisticated cocktail. Their distinctive "Zodiak Drink Menu" adds a playful twist to their handcrafted beverages. And for those looking to let loose, there's even a "groovy disco lounge room" complete with a dazzling disco ball – perfect for a night of dancing and fun.
Decoding Memphis's Culinary DNA: Beyond the Plate
Memphis's food scene is a complex tapestry woven from rich history, diverse cultural influences, and a forward-thinking culinary spirit. Understanding its broader identity helps paint the full picture of its unique dining landscape.
Southern Soul & Iconic Eateries
Beyond barbecue, Memphis embraces its Southern comfort food roots with passion.
- Gus’s Fried Chicken: Operating for over 60 years since the 1950s, Gus's is world-famous for its perfectly crispy, tender fried chicken. It’s simple, iconic, and utterly delicious.
- The Four Way: For seven decades, The Four Way has been a cornerstone of soul food, serving up classics like succulent catfish, savory greens, and comforting banana pudding.
- Soul Fish Cafe: Known for its fried catfish, served with classic hush puppies and tangy tartar sauce, Soul Fish Cafe emphasizes local, fresh ingredients, making it a beloved choice for seafood.
- Muddy’s Bake Shop: A haven for Southern pies (pecan, sweet potato, chocolate chess) and irresistible treats like red velvet cake and their special Elvis cupcake.
- The Peabody Memphis: While a hotel established in 1869, The Peabody is an institution. Famous for its daily Duck Parade (a tradition since the 1930s), it also offers exquisite dining, with the Peabody Cheesecake at Chez Philippe being a standout dessert.
A World on a Plate: Memphis's Diverse Cuisine
Memphis's historical position as a river town and its evolving demographics have blessed it with a truly diverse culinary palette. Its cuisine naturally blends African American, Native American, and European flavors, with strong Creole and Cajun influences evident in dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée. Today, you can find:
- Indian: Taj Palace
- Japanese: Bluefin
- Thai: Bangkok Alley
- Mexican: Las Delicias
- Southern & Caribbean Fusion: Alcenia’s
- Middle Eastern & Greek: Mednikow Café
This rich mosaic means you can truly travel the world with your taste buds, all within the Memphis city limits.
Neighborhood Foodie Havens
While Beale Street is iconic, several other districts have blossomed into vibrant foodie destinations:
- Overton Square: A hub for arts, entertainment, and diverse dining options.
- Cooper-Young: Known for its eclectic, bohemian vibe and independent restaurants.
- South Main Arts District: Blends historic charm with trendy eateries and galleries.
- Crosstown Concourse: A vertical urban village with a fantastic food hall (home to Global Café) and other innovative culinary concepts.
The New Wave: Farm-to-Table and Innovative Chefs
Memphis is currently experiencing a dynamic culinary evolution, with bold chefs pushing boundaries and embracing sustainability.
- The Gray Canary (Chef Ryan Trimm): This acclaimed restaurant focuses on open-fire cooking, creating creative flavor combinations that are both primal and sophisticated.
- Acre Restaurant (Chef Wally Joe): Acre masterfully blends French flair with Deep South traditions, placing a strong emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms.
- Bounty on Broad & The Local Table: These establishments are at the forefront of the farm-to-table movement, committed to sourcing locally and sustainably, often implementing eco-friendly practices like composting and recycling.
Sweet Endings: Desserts Worth the Trip
No unique dining experience is complete without a memorable dessert. Memphis excels in this department, offering everything from classic Southern treats to innovative creations.
- La Michoacana: Offers incredibly creamy gelato with unique Memphis-Mexican fusion flavors, like sweet corn or avocado, providing a refreshing and unexpected twist.
- Gibson’s Donuts: A Memphis institution for over 50 years, Gibson's serves up a staggering variety of donuts, from classic glazed to playful unique Oreo flavors.
- The Flour Garden: Specializes in fresh, high-quality cupcakes, with their Red Velvet being a consistent favorite.
- Beauty Shop: Beyond its savory menu, the Beauty Shop is also noted for its artistic and unique desserts, like their celebrated Coconut & Lime Chess Pie.
Planning Your Memphis Culinary Adventure
Memphis's culinary scene is a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation, offering a wide array of dining and drinking experiences that reflect its rich history and diverse culture. To make the most of your visit:
- Do your research: While this guide highlights many fantastic options, new places are always popping up.
- Make reservations: Especially for popular dinner spots or if you're keen on securing "Elvis's seat" at The Arcade.
- Explore beyond downtown: Venture into neighborhoods like Cooper-Young, Overton Square, and Crosstown for a wider range of flavors.
- Ask the locals: Memphians are proud of their food and happy to share their favorites.
- Come hungry: With so many unique dining experiences in Memphis, you'll want to savor every bite.
So, next time you're thinking about Memphis, remember that while the barbecue is non-negotiable, the city's culinary soul is expansive, surprising, and utterly delicious. Dive in and discover your own unique Memphis flavor.