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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!

A bowl of mixed salad with croutons, olives, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, and pickled onions sits next to a drink with lime and an orange napkin on a white table—perfect for those seeking plant-based Memphis flavors.Pin
Don’t let the simplicity of the seasonal salad fool you! Pickled shallots, local greens, and house-made balsamic made for a flavor-packed starter before dinner. Image: Kate Feinberg

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.

A plate of vegan hummus topped with roasted eggplant and herbs, served with flatbread, a spoon, and a glass of red wine on a wooden table—perfect for enjoying plant-based dining in Memphis.Pin
Smoky eggplant meets creamy hummus, spiced honey, and house-made pita. Dinner at JEM was a memorable experience! Image: Kate Feinberg

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?

A bakery display case filled with various plant-based pastries, including croissants, muffins, and other baked goods. A person serves treats in the background at this Memphis shop.Pin
Hive is a seed-to-plate concept that uses local, high-quality ingredients to make fresh bagels and baked goods, like these irresistible croissants! Image: Kate Feinberg

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.

A Veg-Friendly bowl with sliced tofu, microgreens, vegetables, and grains, served alongside seasoned fries and a glass of orange drink garnished with an orange slice.Pin
A brunch standout at Beauty Shop: coconut-lime broth with crispy tofu, cabbage-watermelon slaw, and a fragrant broth over jade rice. Image: Kate Feinberg

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.

Stuffed zucchini flowers atop roasted vegetables, served with a dollop of white sauce on a patterned black and white plate—a standout dish among Plant-Based Memphis Vegan Eats.Pin
Crispy squash blossom over ratatouille — delicate, seasonal, and beautifully plated. Image: Kate Feinberg

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!

Modern café interior with wooden accents, green cushioned seating, tiled partition, hanging plants, and natural light. A single bentwood chair is placed near a table in this inviting plant-based space.Pin
The vibe at City Silo was perfect for a laid-back Sunday morning. Image: Kate Feinberg

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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Kate Feinberg
About the Author
Kate Feinberg

Kate Feinberg is StyleBlueprint's Associate Editor & Sponsored Content Specialist, based in Nashville. Kate is a plant-based foodie, avid runner, and fantasy reader.