It’s a new year, and what better way to celebrate than to try new Memphis restaurants? This month, we welcome back two beloved eateries, and say hello to a coffee and tea shop and a former cocktail-service turned brick-and-mortar. Happy eating in 2022!
4 New Memphis Restaurants to Check Out (Updated January 2022)
Beans & Leaves
2867 May Blvd., Southaven, MS 38672 • (901) 830-8743
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cozy and welcoming, Beans & Leaves is not your typical grab-and-go coffee shop. “We want our customers to gather, sit, and chat,” owner Margarita LeBlanc says. “The atmosphere of Silo Square where we are located is very unique and we wanted to carry that vibe into our space.”
The eatery serves coffees, teas, and gelato, along with pastries, empanadas, and quiches. The coffee beans are sourced from a five-generation family of coffee farmers in Guatemala. Rich and flavorful pour-overs and nitro cold brews have proven to be extremely popular with customers. Lattes, Americanos, Cappuccinos, and more complete the coffee options, each one made fresh to order. Prefer a cuppa? Try one of their tasty London Fogs or a detoxifying tea for a healthy boost. The tea leaves come from family-owned farms in Florida and the Mississippi Delta. Both the beans and the leaves are sold pre-packaged so you can enjoy these delectable beverages at home.
RELATED: 10 MORE Rural TN Restaurants Worth the Drive
Ham and cheese quiche. Image: Margarita LeBlanc
Image: Margarita LeBlanc
The Farmer at Railgarten
2158 Central Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38104 • (901) 313-0087
Hours: Wednesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Farmer is back and better than ever! Closed since 2017, the quintessential farm-to-table eatery opened its new doors at Railgarten in December. “I really appreciate the opportunity to reboot The Farmer,” says Chef Mac Edwards. “I never thought this would happen. A big thank you goes to Jack Phillips and everyone at Railgarten. The response has been great!”
Old and new customers alike will appreciate The Farmer’s great new location, not to mention the outstanding menu. Favorites include the Pan-Seared Catfish served with house-made mac and cheese, braised greens, and a smoked tomato sauce – just one of the dishes that brought the original restaurant national attention on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Other popular choices include America’s Cut Pork Chop, Gulf Shrimp and Grits, and the Farmer’s Veggie Plate. Ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible, so you know you are in for a fresh, delicious meal. The cocktail menu is a delight, and be sure to save room for a dessert such as the Gibson Donut Bread Pudding. Yum!
America’s Cut Pork Chop. Image: Jay Adkins, courtesy of Farmhouse Branding
G&T Fizz. Image: Image: Jay Adkins, courtesy of Farmhouse Branding
Memphis Whistle
2299 Young Avenue, Memphis, TN • (901) 236-7136
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
You’ll find a cool and fun vibe at Memphis Whistle, from the warm, eclectic décor and unique menu right down to the owners’ official titles. Co-owner Jef Hicks, cocktail creator and Spirit Advisor to the Freebooters, is serving up a drinks menu of hand-crafted beverages that make excellent use of fresh seasonal fruit, along with a hip-and-happening array of Prohibition-style cocktails. His wife Amanda, aka the Executive Whistle Wench, and Chef Kyle Gairhan have developed a menu that is sure to please. “The pulled pork and spicy purple slaw that I make are quite popular,” she tells us. “The slaw blends mayo, mustard, a little vinegar, and Sriracha for a best-of-all-worlds flavor explosion.” Used in sandwiches and on nachos, the pork goes very well with Chef Kyle’s From the Gods barbeque sauce. The Grizz is a great choice for burger-lovers, while vegans will appreciate the Lion’s Mane bites.
Originally a cocktail service launched during the lockdown, the brick-and-mortar space is carefully planned to welcome guests into a comfortable lounge, where you can relax and let go of your day. More traditional seating is available in the dining room – but don’t worry! You’ll find the same fun-and-funky atmosphere everywhere in this colorful and laid-back restaurant.
The Grizz. Image: Memphis Whistle
Lounge. Image: Memphis Whistle
McEwen’s
120 Monroe Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103 • (901) 527-7085
Hours: Lunch — Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Dinner — Monday through Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday through Saturday, 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Memphians have gone over a year without the delicious food at McEwen’s, so we think the reopening of this beloved Southern eatery deserves a mention. The downtown restaurant underwent a total renovation – actually taken down to the studs and completely reconfigured. With amazing touches like original exposed brick and warm lighting, the new space offers an inviting and roomy bar along with more room for diners.
One thing hasn’t changed, however. The elevated, Southern-inspired fare that McEwen’s patrons expect remains intact. Lunch faves include the ever-popular Jungle of Greens salad with a tasty sesame ginger dressing, sandwiches such as The Cuban, Grilled Atlantic Salmon with a miso and pecan glaze, and a delicious daily special. Dinner guests can start their evening with BBQ Duck Confit Enchiladas or Saffron Lobster Risotto. Entrées run a delightful gamut from Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass to Creole Spice Pork Osso Buco to the Trust Me Vegetarian Plate. Meals are perfectly complemented by a carefully curated wine, beer, and cocktail list.
RELATED: McEwen’s Creole-Spiced Braised Pork Osso Buco
Mahi mahi with a lemon caper and tomato cream sauce served with sour cream and Onion mash potatoes and sautéed vegetables. Image: McEwen’s
Pan-seared chicken breast with mushroom marsala. Image: McEwen’s
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Published December 2021
Written by Gaye Swan
What better way to keep warm on a chilly winter’s day than to visit a fun new eatery? We are delighted to bring you a sample of what’s new in Memphis for food lovers, including authentically delicious West African fare, melt-in-your-mouth brisket, Southern fried chicken, yummy soul food, and a little something sweet. You will not want to miss these five fabulous new Memphis restaurants!
5 New Memphis Restaurants to Check Out (Updated December 2021)
Abner’s
1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 137, Memphis, TN 38104 • (901) 425-2597
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Following the successful September opening of Abner’s in East Memphis, the popular Oxford-based restaurant welcomed fried chicken lovers to Crosstown Concourse. Co-owner Kirk Cotham purchased the saucy chicken eatery from the original Abner himself, and they now operate in six locations. “Abner’s offers good, fresh, made-in-house meals that won’t break your budget,” he tells us. “It is a perfect fit for the Crosstown community.” The tenders live up to their name – juicy and tender, with a variety of savory sauces. Wings and nuggets are also on offer, as well as wraps, sandwiches, and salads. Simple sides such as fries, homemade chips, and baby carrots round out your meal. If you are looking for something a little different, the crowd-pleasing Tender Tacos are a tasty choice.
Enjoy an indulgent basket of tenders and fries at Abner’s, now open at Crosstown Concourse. Image: NLA Projects
RELATED: 12 of Memphis’ Most Epic Breakfast Sandwiches
Wolf River Brisket
1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 165, Memphis, TN 38104 • (901) 791-4389
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
In addition to Abner’s, Kirk Cotham and his partner Chad Foreman also own Wolf River Brisket and were quick to jump on an open space in Crosstown Concourse, expanding the line of eateries to three. “Memphis is a great barbeque town, with fantastic restaurants,” Kirk says. “We aren’t competing with that, we are complementing and enhancing the scene.” While Wolf River Brisket is justly known for mouthwatering brisket, the restaurant offers other tempting choices that feature burnt ends, smoked salmon, and smoked sausage. Sides include Southern favorites with a twist, including baked cheese grits, purple hull pea succotash, and spicy garlic green beans. Wolf River Brisket has a full bar with signature beverages like the Smoked Salt Margarita; as the name implies, the cocktail is half-rimmed with hickory-smoked salt. Yum!
Enjoy quintessential Southern fare at Wolf River Brisket. Image: NLA Projects
Bala’s Bistro
4571 Elvis Presley Blvd., Memphis, TN 38116 • (901) 509-3024
Hours: Monday, 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
West African cuisine is actually quite similar to Southern cuisine, Chef Bala Tounkara says. “We use a lot of okra, beef, chicken, and rice. One of our goals is to educate people on new and different types of food. It’s not always West African; we have dishes from all over the continent.” His newly opened Whitehaven location of Bala’s Bistro brings the flavor in must-try dishes such as seafood okra stew, lamb saka saka, Maafe (a creamy peanut butter soup), and peppered goat curry. Vegan options abound, too, with choices ranging from kimchi wraps to vegan saka saka and okra stew.
Formerly in a smaller location, Bala’s Bistro now has room for parties, a heated patio, and a dedicated parking lot. Brightly decorated and cheerful, the restaurant aims to be a fun spot for authentic African entertainment and talent, as well as a hotspot for delightfully unique food.
Enjoy traditional African dishes at Bala’s Bistro‘s new Whitehaven location. Image: Bala’s Bistro
Makeda’s Cookies
2370 Airways Boulevard, Memphis, TN 38114 • (901) 745-2667
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
After weathering the tragic death of Memphis rapper Young Dolf at their Airways location, Makeda’s Cookies has something wonderful to celebrate. The beloved local institution known for its delectable old-fashioned butter cookies opened a new bakery and retail shop downtown. Stop in the spacious new store for sweet treats including chocolate chip, Lemon Goodness, macadamia nut, oatmeal, and pecan cookies – as well as award-winning banana pudding and pies made with a butter cookie crust. Can’t get downtown? The family-owned and -run bakery sells its most famous treat in more than 50 grocery stores.
You can’t beat a Makeda’s Cookies sweet treat! Image: Facebook
RELATED: Memphis Holiday Pop-Ups to Check Out This Season
Taste a Piece of Peace
4465 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38117 • (901) 590-2484
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.
Taste a Piece of Peace recently opened in the Oak Court Mall – but don’t expect fast food at this Southern-style soul food counter. Cooked hot and fresh to order, the menu includes standout favorites like fried catfish, turkey patties with gravy, and chicken and waffles. Of course, every good Southerner knows a meal isn’t complete without the sides, and owner Jennifer Richardson has you covered. You’ll find mac-n-cheese, mashed potatoes, green beans, candied yams, and more to meet your taste buds’ needs. Add in a warm roll or cornbread, and finish up with Nana’s pudding. This is comfort food done just right!
Comfort food awaits at the newly opened Taste a Piece of Peace. Image: Instagram
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Published November 2021
Written by Gaye Swan
The ever-expanding restaurant scene in Memphis continues to bring us fresh and delicious menus every month. Check out these three new and one as-good-as-new Bluff City eateries, and we think you’ll agree that Memphis is a premier destination for foodies everywhere!
4 New Memphis Restaurants To Check Out (Updated November 2021)
Erling Jensen Small Bites
5069 Sanderlin Avenue, Memphis, TN 38117 • (901) 58-SWING
Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Chef Erling Jensen brings his gold-standard gourmet fare to a laid-back, fun environment. Located in the DoubleTree by Hilton in East Memphis, Erling Jensen Small Bites featuring TopGolf Swing Suite combines Chef Erling’s signature fine-dining dishes with the immersive social experience of golf and other games. The menu offers a selection of classic entrees from award-winning Erling Jensen The Restaurant with a more casual presentation designed to be shareable. “Chef Erling has a stellar reputation in Memphis as a gourmet chef with impeccable standards,” says Pace Cooper, CEO of Cooper Hotels, the owner of the Memphis DoubleTree property as well as many others. “We knew that reputation would allow visitors to trust the food in our new concept.” His confidence was not misplaced – weekends are fully booked and they are excited to see repeat customers.
Some of the most popular items on the small bites menu are the flatbreads, sliders, and braised beef short rib bites. Roasted rack of lamb and cast-iron roasted chicken are must-haves if you want a larger meal. Round out your evening with one of the craft cocktails and save room for a decadent dessert.
Erling Jensen Small Bites offers amazing food with a backdrop of fun at TopGolf Swing Suite. Image: Erling Jensen Small Bites with TopGolf Swing Suite
The Wild Mushroom Flatbread combines earthy mushrooms with Fontina cheese, fresh basil and garlic pesto, and a drizzle of white truffle oil. Image: Erling Jensen Small Bites with TopGolf Swing Suite
TopGolf Swing Suite allows you to experience 100 of the best golf courses in the nation. Golf not your thing? You can try hockey, baseball, basketball, football – there’s even Zombie Dodgeball! Image: Erling Jensen Small Bites with TopGolf Swing Suite
RELATED: 5 Memphis Bars with Games
Kutie Pies Bakery Café
1036 E. Goodman Road, Southaven, MS 38671 • (901) 480-9511
Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
You can find it all at Kutie Pies Bakery Café. Owner Karen Todd, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, brings delicious comfort food, scrumptious desserts, and a very warm welcome to her customers. Named after Karen’s own two “kutie pies” (her daughters), the awesome new eatery has the distinction of being the first black-owned bakery in Southaven. Made-in-house bakery selections include cupcakes, cookies, pies, cobblers, cakes, and more. Be sure to try the strawberry cake, already a big local favorite. The café menu is chock-full of Southern goodness, including chicken and waffles and shrimp and grits. In addition to what you’ll find ready and waiting, Kutie Pies offers full-service catering, private rentals, and custom orders.
The strawberry cake from Kutie Pies is a local favorite. We can see why! Image: Kristopher Massey
Grab some Reese’s cookies to take home. Image: Kristopher Massey
You can also get Southern favorites like shrimp and grits. Image: Kristopher Massey
Pantá
2146 Monroe Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104 • (901) 417-7491
Hours: Thursday through Saturday, 6 p.m. to midnight; Sunday, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Memphians are buzzing about the latest offering from Chef Kelly English. Pantá is in the building that housed Chef Kelly’s flagship Restaurant Iris, now undergoing a highly anticipated relocation to East Memphis. Focused on the bold, vibrant flavors of Spain, Pantá features a delightful menu of Catalan cuisine in a very colorful and welcoming casual atmosphere. Perfect for sharing, the selection of small plates allows you to sample plenty of authentic Catalan flavor. The beverage menu boasts a list of Spanish-only wines, eclectic specialty cocktails, and gin and tonics that are inspired by the region. You’ll definitely want to end the meal with one of the mouthwatering desserts.
The cozy atmosphere at Pantá is equally as vibrant. Image: Caleb Sigler of Iris Restaurant Group
Bocadillo de Plato a les Landes is a belly-warming meal idea. Image: Caleb Sigler of Iris Restaurant Group
The “Fiona” is just one of several craft cocktails. Image: Caleb Sigler of Iris Restaurant Group
RELATED: Brownies, Blondies & Bars to Bake This Season
Hog and Hominy
707 W. Brookhaven Circle, Memphis, TN 38117 • (901) 779-6096
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday through Saturday, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Happy hour, Tuesday through Saturday, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Although this is technically a re-opening, Memphians are so excited about the return of this local favorite that we had to give it a mention. The original Hog and Hominy was shuttered by a late-night fire almost two years ago, and the new space is just that – brand new. With floor-to-ceiling windows, vaulted ceilings, and elegant accents, the larger restaurant offers a warm yet sophisticated welcome to customers in search of the eatery’s signature Italian cooking and Southern roots. The menu is a combination of tried-and-true selections and new items sure to become crowdpleasers. Wood-fired pizzas are among the must-try entrees, including Classic H&H options as well as seasonal offerings. Be sure to check out the hip and fun new cocktail menu, too!
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Published October 2021
Written by Gaye Swan
The restaurant scene in Memphis is always exciting, with delicious new eateries opening every month. Check out four of the newest options to bring the flavor to Bluff City residents and visitors alike.
4 New Memphis Restaurants to Check Out (Updated October 2021)
Big Bad Breakfast
6450 Poplar Avenue, Suite 119, Memphis, TN 38119 • (901) 881-3346
Hours: Daily, 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
After a few delays, Big Bad Breakfast is finally open in Memphis! “We have wonderful brand recognition from our years in Oxford,” says owner and James Beard Award-winning chef John Currence. “We are excited about coming to Memphis — we have tons of friends here and have always enjoyed the city.”
The menu is always evolving to keep it fresh and interesting, John tells us, but Memphians can expect the same delicious goodness that Big Bad Breakfast is known for: hearty and creative Southern favorites, fresh biscuits, local coffee, and custom-made meats and jellies. The Big Bad Breakfast Plate is a top seller, offering multiple combinations of eggs, meat, and sides. Hungry guests love the skillet breakfasts, which are loaded with fresh ingredients; those looking for something lighter will enjoy the yummy Lean Plates. Created especially for Memphis, the Elvis Pancake Stack is a hometown hit. “It has banana, peanut butter, chocolate chips, and whipped cream,” John says. “People have been ordering it like crazy!”
The Big Bad Breakfast Plate is a sure-fire way to start your day! Image: Angie Mosier
Huevos Rancheros are a specialty of Big Bad Breakfast, made with Original Grit Girl cheese grits, chicken sausage, saucy black beans, crispy tortillas, cilantro, Pico de Gallo, two poached eggs, avocado, and lime. Image: Angie Mosier
RELATED: 5 Memphis Restaurant Re-Openings: These Favorites Are Back!
Boycott Coffee
240 Madison Avenue, Suite 103, Memphis, TN 38103
Hours: Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Boycott Coffee serves up a mean cup of joe — and you’ll enjoy it even more knowing that the owners have another goal: responsibly and ethically getting coffee from the growers to you. The menu is simple and classic: espresso, Americano, pour-over, cold brew, Cortado, cappuccino, and more. You’ll also find specialties for the bold coffee drinkers. The Burnout features cayenne pepper, ginger root, and brown sugar. For a sweeter kick, try the Have a Salty Fall, made with salt, caramel, and mocha. Teas are available, too!
Sugar Ghost
2615 Broad Avenue, Memphis, TN 38112 • (901) 246-9874
Hours: Daily, noon to 7 p.m. (SB TIP: These are soft opening hours, and plans are in place to stay open longer, so check their website and social media for updates.)
Sugar Ghost is the brainchild of Mary Claire White, owner of Falling Into Place on Broad Avenue. When her neighbor on the hip-and-happening street left, she seized the chance to bring a new concept to the area — delicious bubble teas and homemade ice cream. While the bricks-and-mortar location got a facelift, Sugar Ghost began life as a food truck in the vacant space next to the home and lifestyle boutique. Today, a peachy-pink, newly renovated shop welcomes guests to stop in and sample the treats. Milk teas include Matcha Green, Thai, Coconut, Chocolate, and Classic Black. Fruit tea lovers can enjoy a variety of flavors such as mango, lychee, and passion fruit. Handcrafted ice cream is in the case, ready to scoop, in a delightful array of flavors.
Stop into Sugar Ghost for a tasty tea or a sugary scoop! Image: Sugar Ghost
RELATED: Your Updated Guide to Broad Avenue
Wahlburgers Wild
1 Bass Pro Drive, Memphis, TN 38105 • (901) 291-8002
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
It is a chain, but we think the first Wahlburgers Wild to open in Tennessee deserves a mention. The Memphis location is also the first of the gourmet burger eateries to open in a Bass Pro. Owned by famous brothers Mark, Donnie, and Paul Wahlberg, the restaurant is known for being family-friendly and emphasizing the customer experience. The menu is sure to please the trickiest of taste buds, with a selection of burgers, sandwiches, salads, and kids’ meals. Don’t forget to try one of their “Wild Flavors,” such as a bison burger or venison chili. Gourmet shakes, floats, and desserts round out the menu.
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Published September 2021
Written by Gaye Swan
Memphis has experienced some surprisingly nice temperatures lately, which makes getting out to sample new restaurants even more enticing. Over the past few weeks, we’ve welcomed two exciting new culinary concepts in the reopened Hu. Hotel, a jammin’ breakfast spot, homemade noodles and dumplings, and delicious ramen. Take a look at these five new Memphis restaurants!
5 New Memphis Restaurants To Check Out (Updated September 2021)
Biscuits & Jams
5806 Stage Road, Bartlett, TN 38134 • (901) 672-7905
Hours: Wednesday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations highly recommended for Saturday and Sunday.
Everybody loves breakfast anytime, says Chef Monique Williams – and Biscuits & Jams aims to deliver just that! Fresh, homemade biscuits paired with sweet or savory jams, scrumptious waffles and French toast, filling sammies, and hearty breakfast platters are all on the menu. The brand-new eatery has already discovered a few customer favorites. The B & J Breakfast entrée is a classic with two eggs, two biscuits, grits or potatoes, and a side of bacon or sausage. Chef Mo says the Shrimp and Crawfish Creole Benedict is outstanding, served over a grit cake rather than an English muffin with sautéed spinach and a mild and yummy Creole sauce. Begin your meal with a sharable order of Fried Green Tomatoes, paired with Chef Mo’s homemade chow-chow.
Biscuits & Jams is in the process of getting a liquor license, so you’ll soon be able to sip on a Bloody Mary, mimosa, or other breakfast cocktail soon.
You can expect a lineup of delicious spreads at Biscuits & Jams, both savory and sweet. Image: Facebook
Waffles are a standout favorite at Biscuits & Jams. Image: Facebook
RELATED: But First, We Brunch: Local Brunch Spots in Memphis
Good Fortune Co.
361 South Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103 • (561) 306-4711
Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. (10 p.m. to 2 a.m. is drinks only).
The brainchild of Chefs Arturo Leighton and Sarah Cai, Good Fortune Co. charmed Memphis with three sold-out pop-ups in 2020. “The pop-ups allowed us to gauge community interest,” Arturo says. The wildly successful events showed them that Memphis was definitely ready for their brand of high-caliber Asian cuisine. Good Fortune Co. offers homemade noodles and dumplings in deliciously creative dishes. The menu is currently evolving, says Arturo, as they tweak it to find the perfect offerings. Popular so far is the Honky Tonkatsu, a traditional ramen with pork belly and creamy bone broth, and the ice cream taiyaki, a soft-serve made in-house and served in a fresh waffle cone. The bar will serve up a curated list of craft cocktails featuring Asian spirits — rum from Thailand, whisky from India, and spirits from China, Japan, and Indonesia.
Good Fortune Co. offers ample outdoor seating and a scrumptious and evolving menu. Image: Good Fortune Co.
Hu. Roof
79 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN 38103 • (901) 333-1200
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 3 p.m. to midnight; Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.; Brunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
The Hu. Hotel has officially re-opened! Along with lovely, comfortable rooms, the hotel offers two new food and beverage concepts sure to please locals and visitors alike. Hu. Roof offers amazing views of the Mississippi River, accompanied by an eclectic yet classic menu of cocktails and globally-inspired shared plates. The fresh and fun terrace features pops of color, giving the space a playfulness that is perfect for enjoying a boozy brunch, a sunset happy hour, or an evening under the stars.
Hu. Roof offers a few cozy corners for enjoying a cocktail or two, while taking in views of the Mississippi. Image: Elizabeth Looney Photography
Lucy’s
79 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN 38103 • (901) 333-1200
Hours: Daily, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The second Hu. Hotel hotspot is Lucy’s, described as a “come as you are” all-day café experience with a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu. The vibe is casual and upbeat; the cocktails are classic, and the menu offers Southern comfort. Favorites for breakfast include Orange Ricotta Toast and Grilled Peach and Blackberry Parfait. Dinner guests will enjoy flavorful options such as the Lucy Burger or the Country Ham Plate. Be sure to save room for dessert – the house-made Chocolate Cream Tarte is just one of the mouthwatering choices.
Lucy’s offers a casual atmosphere with a wide variety of comforting Southern-inspired menu items. Image: Garrett Sweet
Lucy’s offers a lineup of classic cocktails. Image: Garrett Sweet
RELATED: A Peek Inside Hu., Memphis’ Hip New Boutique Hotel
Flame Ramen
1838 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104 • (901) 779-8666
Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Memphians who love their ramen can rejoice in the latest spot, Flame Ramen, to get flavor-packed ramen dishes, along with yakisoba noodles, bao buns, and traditional Japanese rice bowls. A favorite is the Ichiraku Ramen, served with pork loin, scallions, soft boiled egg, and fish cake, with a miso and creamy pork bone soup base. In the mood for an Asian-inspired pork belly dish? Japanese barbeque Chashu is served yakisoba-style and in a soft steamed bun. Vegans are covered, too – the delicious Vegan Paradise Ramen is served with wood ear mushrooms, scallions, corn, broccoli, vegetable dumplings, fresh tofu, and bean sprouts.
Ramen lovers, rejoice! Flame Ramen offers a full lineup of traditional ramen, bao buns, and rice bowls. Image: Instagram
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Published August 2021
Written by Gaye Swan
Temperatures in Memphis are red-hot, and so is the restaurant scene! Whether you are looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Memphis has you covered. This month we bring you four fabulous new eateries sure to tempt your taste buds.
4 New Memphis Restaurants To Check Out (Updated August 2021)
The Paramount
265 S. Front Street, Memphis, TN 38103 • (901) 509-8360
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.
From the creative minds that brought us Backlot Sandwich Shop comes a cool new restaurant offering up eclectic Southern fare. Located in the Downtown building that once housed Paramount Studios movie reels, The Paramount was named as a nod to cinematic history. The menu doesn’t dwell in the past, however! The flavors are a fresh and fun twist on Southern comfort foods. You’ll find a delicious selection of small plates like the purple hull pea mussels, duck poutine, bronzed tuna, and fried bologna. Entrees include a daily fish, porterhouse steak, and cornbread and andouille stuffed quail. Start the evening with one of the wonderful craft cocktails — several are made with local spirits.
Look for a creative menu at The Paramount, including favorites like the bronzed tuna, pictured here. Image: Derk Meitzler
The grilled lamb loin rests in a sorghum-miso demi-glaze and is paired with heirloom carrots. Image: Derk Meitzler
RELATED: Our 11 Favorite Spots for Frozen Treats in Memphis
Plant Based Heat
669 S. Highland Street, Memphis, TN 38111
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Former Memphis radio personality Ralph “RJ Groove” Johnson has been 100% vegan for less than two years but says he’s been exploring plant-based options for much longer. He opened Plant Based Heat to combine healthy eating with the everyday foods that Southerners love. “Plant Based Heat means vegan comfort food to me,” he says. “The heat means the food is cooked – it’s not raw or spicy. We give you the foods you crave, like hamburgers, hot dogs, and wings, but all plant-based.” Top sellers include Vings (vegan wings), a classic (but meatless!) burger that brings the smoky flavor, and the Memphis Bella, a Philly-style sandwich that uses Portabella mushrooms.
The Vings and fries at Plant Based Heat bring on the flavor. Image: Ralph “RJ Groove” Johnson
The Classic Burger is dressed just like the original, but the patty, cheese, and sauces are all vegan. Image: Ralph “RJ Groove” Johnson
Team Car Café
8100 Macon Station, Memphis, TN 38018
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Bicycling enthusiasts who love their coffee have a great new place to go! Team Car Café serves up artisan coffee from locally owned Ethnos Coffee Roasters and the full menu from El Mero Taco, along with freshly made pastries and breakfast tacos made especially for the café. Located inside Latting Speed Shop, the space offers a relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding and visiting with friends. The décor is notable for the vintage Mercedes displayed above the coffee bar — a nod to the support cars that travel along with bicycle tours, says owner Will Tucker. Stop in and try one of the signature lattes, such as the Honey Gold or the El Mero Mocha.
RELATED: 11 Memphis Coffee Shops to Add to Your Must-Try List
The decor at Team Car Café is as eclectic as the menu. Cycling enthusiasts will love the decor as much as the menu — but you certainly don’t need to be a cyclist to love this new spot. Image: Facebook
Flying Sobie’s Gourmet Kitchen
At Ghost River Brewing Co. on Beale Street: 341 Beale Street, Memphis, TN 38103
Hours: Wednesday and Thursday, 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday through Sunday, 1 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Flying Sobie’s is known for its delicious sauces – and Flying Sobie’s Hen House Food Truck attracts the crowds! Now Chef Sobie Johnson has partnered with Ghost River Brewing Co. to offer a tasty menu at the brewery’s Beale Street location. Visitors to the taproom can order from a hearty menu of handcrafted sandwiches and veggie burgers, accompanied by sides and extras that include “The Best Chili Cheese Fries in the City!”
The small but mighty menu at Flying Sobie’s Ghost River outpost features sandwiches, veggie burgers, and some tasty sides. Image: Instagram
Enjoy your new dining adventures, Memphis!
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