Plant-Based in Memphis: My Top Vegan & Veg-Friendly Eats
I spent a weekend in Memphis and made it my mission to explore some of the city’s plant-based offerings — and wow, did it deliver! Image: Kate Feinberg
I spent a recent weekend in Memphis and made it my mission to explore some of the city’s plant-based offerings — and wow, did it deliver! From creative veggie-forward dishes to indulgent bites, I barely scratched the surface of what Memphis has to offer. If you’re plant-based in Memphis, get ready to swoon.
While I didn’t make it to every vegan café or fully plant-based spot (there are so many!), the places I did visit made a lasting impression. I especially love discovering vegetarian and vegan dishes at restaurants that aren’t strictly plant-based — it shows just how much thought and creativity Memphis chefs are pouring into their menus.
These are a few of my favorite bites from the trip, and I’m already making a wish list for next time.
The Archives Bar & Bistro
I popped into The Archives for a pre-dinner bite and was pleasantly surprised by their seasonal salad, dressed in a house-made balsamic that was rich, tangy, and full of depth. While I didn’t try it this time, the cauliflower steak with mushroom risotto caught my eye, and it’s high on my list when they reopen.
Editor’s Note: As of May 2025, The Archives Bar & Bistro is closed for renovations. Visit their Instagram for updates!
JEM
For something elegant and inventive, JEM was a highlight of my trip. I started with the marinated eggplant — served with creamy garlic hummus, spiced honey, sunflower Romesco, mint, and house-made pita. It was a beautiful balance of smoky, sweet, and fresh. Dinner was pillowy gnocchi tossed with sweet Vidalia onions and spicy Calabrian chiles — rich, comforting, and perfectly balanced.
Hive
Hive is a cozy daytime spot where I kicked off one morning with a bagel and hummus. Simple, satisfying, and yes, I caved and snagged a croissant, too. Not strictly plant-based, but when they look that flaky and golden, who can resist?
This iconic spot in Cooper-Young has plenty to offer plant-based diners, especially during brunch. I ordered the Thai-style Breakfast Bowl, a vibrant mix of coconut, saffron, and lemongrass-ginger-lime broth layered with maitake mushrooms, avocado, pearl jade rice, crispy tofu, and a crunchy cabbage-watermelon slaw. It’s as flavorful as it sounds, and one of the most creative brunch dishes I’ve ever had.
Amelia Gene’s
Looking for something upscale? Amelia Gene’s is your place. My dinner began with a delicate tempura squash blossom over a bed of ratatouille — a visual and culinary treat. For my entrée: pesto pasta, simple yet full of depth. It was the kind of dinner that feels special, but not fussy.
City Silo
No trip is complete without a great breakfast to go, and City Silo had me covered. Their avocado toast was fresh, flavorful, and the perfect send-off before hitting the road. Pro tip: Grab a smoothie or wellness latte for the drive!
Whether you’re plant-based full-time or just exploring more veggie-forward meals, Memphis has plenty to offer beyond its famous ribs. These spots prove that flavor, creativity, and presentation are alive and well in the city’s plant-based scene. And I can’t wait to go back for round two.
Until next time, Memphis!
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For more food and dining recommendations, visit our archives.
Kate Feinberg
Kate Feinberg is a professional writer based in Nashville. She has more than 14 years of freelance writing experience covering travel, wellness, and lifestyle. A certified meditation teacher, RYT-200 yoga instructor, and integrative nutrition health coach, she brings a strong wellness perspective to her work. Kate is also a marathon runner and the creator of a plant-based food blog, Chef Kate F, where she shares nourishing recipes and mindful living tips. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her on the golf course, exploring new destinations, or combining both with golf-focused travel. She enjoys lake life on Percy Priest Lake.