|
|
Memphis is home to many excellent restaurants that capture the essence of Mississippi River cuisine. Fusion restaurants are the norm here and French, Spanish, African and Cajun flavors are often mixed together to create something truly unique. The famous Beale Street is Memphis’ center for live music and vibrant nightlife, but also features some of the city’s best restaurants. EP Delta Kitchen combines the comfort of Southern cooking with ingredients from around the world. Plus, their extensive bar keeps customers happy all night long. Peabody Place is another Memphis location with several renowned restaurants. Texas de Brazil Churrascaria serves up authentic Brazilian cuisine, libations and hand-rolled cigars. Bluefin, also in Peabody Place is a hip sushi fusion restaurant. Memphis’ unique blend of flavors and ingredients make it one of the best cities to try something new.
Memphis Restaurants
|
Bari Ristorante Enoteca
22 S. Cooper St., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.722.2244
Bari Ristorante Enoteca is an excellent Memphis Italian restaurant featuring an extensive wine bar with imported Italian wines. Chef Jason Severs creates Southeastern Italian cuisine with his family’s traditional methods to present fresh antipasto, crisp salads, succulent meats and tasty seafood. This Memphis restaurant is both casual and elegant; patrons feel equally comfortable staying for a traditional multi-course Italian meal or simply enjoying one or two of Bari’s delicious dishes. Chef Jason Severs advises patrons to leave room for dessert—nobody should miss out on Bari Ristorante Enoteca’s renowned sweets.
|
Bluefin
135 S. Main, Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.528.1010
Bluefin is a hip Memphis fusion restaurant located in Peabody Place, a popular entertainment and retail center home to The Peabody Hotel. The lounge setting and billiards room at Bluefin makes this restaurant a popular nightspot, while the sleek sushi bar keeps hungry patrons satisfied. If sushi doesn’t sound good, Bluefin mixes it up with American, European and other Asian choices on the menu. On the weekends, some of Memphis’ best deejays spin hits to keep the party going.
|
Capriccio Grill – Peabody Hotel
149 Union Ave., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.529.4199
Executive chef Brian Barrow mixes the best flavors from Italy with good old-fashioned American steakhouse favorites at Capriccio Grill in Memphis’ famous Peabody Hotel. US prime steaks and chops are delivered fresh from the national purveyor, Ruprecht’s of Chicago. Fresh lobster and seafood are delivered daily to please the taste buds of the most discerning diners. This Memphis Italian restaurant and steakhouse delivers with its vast assortment of delicious dishes.
|
Chez Phillippe – Peabody Hotel Memphis
149 Union Ave., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.529.4188
French cuisine with an Asian flair can be found at Chez Phillippe, the signature restaurant of Memphis’ Peabody Hotel. Chez Phillippe remains the epitome of exquisite Memphis dining with impeccable service, distinguished wines and an elegant atmosphere (jacket preferred for men). Executive chef Reinaldo Alfonsohas has made Chez Phillippe Memphis’s only four-star restaurant with his dedication to the art of cooking. Elegance, style and delicious cuisine have kept this Asian-influenced French restaurant in a league of its own.
|
Circa by John Bragg
119 S. Main St., Ste. 100; Tel. 901.522.1488
John Bragg, executive chef and owner of Circa, brings a whole new life to contemporary American cuisine in the heart of Memphis. This restaurant truly has all the bases covered: the dinner menu separates appetizers into “cold” and “some like it hot” categories, while main dishes have “land,” “sea” and “air” headings. Each entrée has a glass of wine suggestion from the 50 different wines offered by the glass. 26 handcrafted beers and 16 original adult beverages also compliment the menu. No matter what hungry or thirsty patrons are in the mood for, Memphis’ classiest contemporary American restaurant, Circa, delivers.
|
Daily Grill
170 Lt. George W. Lee Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.334.5950
Chicken pot pie, meatloaf and hand tossed cobb salads are staples at the Daily Grill, a traditional American restaurant located just steps from Memphis’ famous Beale Street. Juicy certified angus steaks and fresh seafood—available at reasonable prices—have made the Daily Grill a favorite among Memphis locals. This American grill and steakhouse is perfect for guests who desire the highest quality of Memphis dining while saving some money to spend on everything else that this beautiful city has to offer.
|
Encore
150 Peabody Pl., Ste. 111, Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.528.1415
French and American cuisine collide at Encore, a casual yet elegant Memphis restaurant located one block from the famous Beale Street. Veal Osso Buco can be found on the menu alongside the Encore Burger, but don’t ask for “fries”—pommes frites accompany the ground to order sirloin cheeseburger at Encore. Specialty cocktails and a large wine list also keep this French-American fusion restaurant classy. Everyone in the Memphis area should see first-hand why Master Chef Jose Gutierrez has been praised by critics and patrons alike.
|
EP Delta Kitchen
126 Beale St., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.527.0166
EP Delta Kitchen captures the essence of Memphis and Mississippi River cuisine and is conveniently located on the historic Beale Street in the heart of downtown Memphis. French, Spanish, African and Cajun flavors are fused together to create Southern favorites with a little extra flair. Blackened catfish, grilled filet mignon and stuffed chicken deuxelle are just a few of the delicious options found on the diverse menu. The full bar, large wine list and exciting libations menu make pairing cocktails with entrees a stimulating endeavor. EP Delta Kitchen’s after dinner menu available only after 11pm ensures a great night full of mouthwatering cuisine and tempting cocktails—all in the heart of downtown Memphis’ Beale Street.
|
Erling Jensen The Restaurant
1044 S. Yates Rd., Memphis, Tennesse; Tel. 901.763.3700
Erling Jensen creates globally inspired French fusion cuisine in his classy Downtown Memphis restaurant. The seared ahi tuna with sticky rice and rack of lamb with pecan, mustard, garlic and molasses crust are favorites at Erling Jensen The Restaurant. Erling urges guests to save room for dessert—the blueberry marzipan cobbler with honey ice cream is sure to satisfy even the strongest sweet cravings. The splendid wine list offers choices to pair with the delicious entrees. From appetizer to dessert, this Downtown Memphis restaurant captures French and American cuisine impressively.
|
712 W. Brookhaven Cir. Memphis, TN 38117
Garlands restaurant, located in the heart of East Memphis, offers casual fine dining in a quaint, bistro-type home filled with visual and culinary art. Exquisite regional cuisine, offered with an extensive selection of temperature controlled wines, include such delicacies as Seared Foie Gras w/ Grannie Smith Apple Compote, Fried Oyster Caesar Salad, Seared Scallop Rockefellar, Grilled Rack of Lamb w/ Roasted Red Pepper Flan & Mint Gelee, Roasted Sea Bass w/ Lemon & Basil Meuniere, or Dry Aged Ribeye w/ Goat Cheese Hollandaise & Truffle Oil; to name just a few! Elegant desserts are all housemade and include our White Chocolate Grand Marnier Creme Brulee or Blueberry Key Lime Tart among others. Amazing Southern hospitality from the Garlands family will assure a blessed & memorable fine dining experience.
Description provided by Opentable.com
|
Interim Restaurant & Bar
5040 Sanderlin, Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.818.0821
The Interim Restaurant and Bar is a satisfying dining experience in the core of Downtown Memphis featuring upscale American cuisine. The state-of-the-art kitchen can be seen from the dining room, giving patrons a chance to see their meals being prepared. Oysters on the half shell along with macaroni and cheese casserole with country ham are favorite appetizers of the Interim Restaurant. For dessert, try the delicious upside down apple pie with golden raisins and vanilla ice cream. The Interim Restaurant, one of Memphis’ newest, won’t disappoint.
|
Lolo's Table
128 Monroe Ave., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.522.9449
Lolo’s Table expertly mixes casual and fine dining in downtown Memphis, with entrees starting at just $12. Executive chef Joe Cartwright blends French, Tuscan and Mediterranean flavors to create delicious, yet unexpected dishes. The atmosphere at this downtown Memphis restaurant is classy without being stuffy as the meals are upscale, but not overpriced. A happy hour featuring discounted beers and martinis between 4pm and 7pm Monday though Friday is perfect for a cocktail after work or a long day exploring downtown Memphis. Lolo’s Table delivers quality to customers with amazing food at low prices.
|
Nepa Cafe
5101 Sanderline Ste. 122, Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.683.0441
Nepa Cafe, in Downtown Memphis, offers an outstanding wine list and upscale American cuisine with a unique flair. Expertly prepared filet mignon and fresh yellow fin tuna grace the entrée menu. For dessert try the buttermilk pie, a southern cheesecake that is a little fluffier and creamier than traditional cheesecakes. Don’t forget to dip it in the brown sugar sauce. The Nepa Cafe is a great place to enjoy upscale American favorites while visiting the River City.
|
Owen's Brennan's Restaurant
6150 Poplar Ave. Ste. 150, Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.761.0990
Owen Brennan’s family owned and operated restaurant is dedicated to bring the flavors of New Orleans to Memphis. Innovative nightly specials compliment the extensive menu, so there is something for everyone at this excellent French-Creole fusion restaurant. Since the restaurant’s opening in 1990, Owen Brennan’s has enjoyed success and several awards and recognitions. Saturday breakfasts means that patrons can dine on mouth-watering cuisine all day long.
|
River Oaks
5871 Poplar Ave., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.683.9305
The River Oaks restaurant, a Memphis favorite, features a combination of classic French-influenced American cuisine served in a casual elegant atmosphere. Steaks, chops and fresh seafood are favorites at the River Oaks. Don’t get too full for dessert—the Gateau Opera, chocolate soufflé and baked Alaska are house specialties. More than 150 wine selections, with about 50 by the glass comprise the first-rate wine list. The relaxing atmosphere combined with a wide selection of drinks and delicious entrees have kept the River Oaks restaurant popular throughout Memphis.
|
Ruth's Chris Steak House
6120 Poplar Ave., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.761.0055
Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Downtown Memphis serves only the finest aged, corn-fed USDA prime beef. Be careful--all Ruth’s Chris steaks are broiled in the trademark 1,800-degree oven and served on a plate heated to 500 degrees so watch your fingers. The result is an incredible, tender steak presented sizzling hot at the table. A wide variety of crisp vegetables, fresh seafood and homemade desserts round out the menu. This Downtown Memphis steakhouse never fails to please.
|
Sekisui Pacific Rim
4724 Poplar Ave,. Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.767-7770
Sekisui Pacific Rim is a Memphis favorite late night sushi bar, fusion restaurant and cocktail bar. Open until midnight during the week and 1am Friday and Saturday nights, Sekisui Pacific Rim delivers a hip, West Coast atmosphere in the heart of Memphis. Japanese, Chinese, Thai and other Asian flavors are blended for a uniquely Sekisui result. DJs and live music play on selected nights keeping the party going late. This Memphis fusion restaurant and bar provides an exciting nightlife experience away from the crowds of Beale Street.
|
Sekisui – East
50 Humphrey’s Ctr., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.747-0001
Sekisui may be one of the restaurants responsible for introducing Memphis to sushi back in the early ‘90s. Executive Chef Yoshi Takusagawa offers authentic Japanese sushi, sashimi, tempura, noodles and teriyaki. The full bar and sake list will add to the enjoyment of the restaurant by adult patrons. Memphians are pleased that one of the first authentic sushi restaurants in the Memphis area turned out to be so consistently delicious.
|
Spindini
383 S. Main St., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.578.2767
Executive Chef Judd Gristani declares that Spindini is “all about the fire,” meaning that he uses a wood-fired oven to create older Italian recipes using an ancient technique. Gristani even bakes his own bread in the wood-fire oven, giving it a unique roasted flavor. The menu includes cartoccio recipes in copper vessles, spiedini dishes on skewers, entrees roasted on wooden planks and poached in terra cotta pots. Spindini offers a unique Italian experience just blocks from the Mississippi River in Downtown Memphis.
|
Stella
39 S. Main St., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.526.4950
Stella is an innovative fusion restaurant boasting fabulous flavors, an exceptional wine list and a commitment to excellent service. Executive Chef John Kirk describes Stella’s cuisine as global contemporary with a southern flair. Marinated filet mignon and snapper en Pappillote are featured entrees at this Memphis restaurant. Vegan and vegetarian dishes are even available upon request for those that are animal friendly. Though John Kirk draws flavors from all over the world, he remains true to his Delta roots creating an enticing menu popular all over Memphis.
|
150 Peabody Place, #103, Memphis, Tennessee
Brazilian.
|
Texas de Brazil Churrascaria
150 Peabody Pl. #103, Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.526.7600
Texas de Brazil Churrascaria is an excellent Brazilian restaurant serving up authentic cuisine in the heart of Memphis. The house baked Brazilian cheese bread and the Caipirinha, a signature cocktail, are favorites among Texas de Brazil patrons. In-house wine connoisseurs can help suggest the perfect pairing for any entrée. A meal at this restaurant can turn into an all-evening affair--after dinner people tend to stay and relax with a cocktail, espresso or a hand-rolled cigar. With its unique atmosphere and cuisine, it’s no surprise that Texas de Brazil Churrascaria remains a popular choice for Memphians wanting something different.
|
The Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar
2149 Young Ave., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.725.0230
The Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar serves up the freshest seafood in the heart of Midtown. Owners and native Floridians Richard and Evalee Grenamyer moved from Florida to Memphis and brought their fun, Gulf Coast atmosphere with them. Fresh seafood is flown in from Boston, Hawaii, New Zealand and the Gulf Coast providing a wide variety of selections for discerning palates. For non-seafood lovers, The Blue Fish Restaurant offers fine steak, chicken and vegetarian entrees. Also served are oysters Rockefeller, oysters Bienville and fresh raw oysters. For seafood lovers, it’s hard to beat The Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar in Memphis’ exciting midtown neighborhood.
|
2149 Young Ave. Memphis, TN 38104
Seafood.
|
The Grill Room at The Daily Grill
170 Lt. George W. Lee Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.334.5950
The Grill Room is the upscale counterpart to the Daily Grill, a contemporary American steakhouse just off of the famous Beale Street in the heart of Downtown Memphis. The Grill Room features prime steaks that are wet aged for 28 days. Specialty items include a 16-ounce bone-in filet, a fresh lobster martini appetizer and a monstrous 28-ounce rib eye chop. Ask the professional wait staff for help selecting a wine pairing from the 150 varieties offered. Upscale steakhouse dining in Memphis would be lacking without the incredible fare offered at The Grill Room at the Daily Grill.
|
The Majestic Grille
145 S. Main St., Memphis Tennessee; Tel. 901.522.8555
In its past life The Majestic Grille was actually The Majestic Theater, playing some of Memphis’ best shows. Today, The Majestic Grille serves up juicy steaks, fresh seafood and gourmet burgers in a 1940s style bar and grill. In addition to having some of the best fare in Memphis, The Majestic Grille is conveniently located just steps from Beale Street, The FedEx Forum and Downtown’s premier hotels. Try a martini at the 40-foot granite bar or enjoy the ambiance of yesteryear at this beautifully converted building in the heart of Memphis.
|
The Melting Pot
2828 Wolfcreek Pkwy., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.380.9500
The Melting Pot serves up fondue in a relaxed atmosphere near Memphis’ Germantown neighborhood. Attentive service, fine wines and fabulous four-course dinners can be found at this Memphis fondue restaurant. The four-course meal begins with a cheese fondue and is followed by a salad. Next, patrons choose the entrée and cooking style. Finally, a chocolate fondue is served for dessert. Different variations and cooking styles are available to satisfy any type of palate. The Melting Pot in Memphis is a great restaurant for couples or groups looking to try something new.
|
7615 Farmington Blvd. Germantown, TN 38138
Yia Yia’s not only caters to the casual diner, but also includes room for business meetings and special occasions. Our menu changes daily to ensure the freshest seafood, best quality steaks and chops and most exquisite entrees.
Description provided by Opentable.com
|
Reviews - Memphis Restaurants
|
Grill 83
79 Madison Ave, The Madison Hotel, Memphis TN; Tel. 901.333.1200
The ultra-chic hotel bar and restaurant is about as far from Memphis as one can get, and still stay within the city limits. Of course, many Memphians would contend that culinary excellence and southern food aren't mutually exclusive, and they aren't, but Grill 83 is a step above the barbecue and soul food for which Memphis is justly famous. Take, for example, the excellent stacked crab salad that comes with savory poppy-seed cookies and avocado tempura. Of course, Memphis isn't Memphis without meat and an excellent selection of beef, fish and game dominate the entrée menu. Top it off with a selection from the restaurant's extensive wine list or one of the bar's oversized signature martinis.
|
Rendezvous Café
52 S. Second St., Memphis TN; Tel. 901.523.2746
For the legions of die-hard dry-rub barbecue fans nothing tops the Rendezvous Café's pork shoulder ribs. Spicy and dry on the outside, with succulent juicy meat on the inside, these ribs were made to take the Rendezvous' secret-recipe sauces, hot and spicy or sweet and tangy or a combo of both. The small order may be enough to satisfy one's immediate craving, but for a few bucks more a large order can always be taken to go. Everyone from the Court Park vagrant to Food & Wine magazine has praised and continues to praise this amazing house of meat.
|
The Little Tea Shop
69 Monroe Ave., Memphis TN; Tel. 901.525.6000
It's really not homestyle cooking if the woman who created it isn't still in the kitchen. At the Little Tea Shop in downtown Memphis, Suhair Lauck is at once behind the counter and in front of the grill, making sure each customer knows what a jewel he or she has walked into. If Ms. Luack hasn't seen you before, she's likely to brag that she's got Memphis' "best kept secret," though should you be lucky enough to get in before the lunch rush, you'll wonder how much of a secret it really is. She's famous for her porkless turnip greens, but her daily specials, pot roast, roast chicken and gravy, are always accompanied by moist, steaming cornsticks that serve as mop up bread for the jus and gravy.
|
Top's Bar-B-Q
1286 Union Ave, Memphis TN; Tel. 901.725.7527
If only all chains were this perfect. Some locals decry its "vinegary taste," but those reared on franchises like McDonald's and Burger King will cry at how delicious a municipal multi-location barbecue can be. It's nothing like you've ever experienced, and certainly isn't mass-produced. Each Top's has its own smokestack pumping meaty charcoal air into the surrounding environs. After tasting one of their superb wet pork sandwiches, you'll know why the gods created white bread (is it a coincidence that the Wonder company is headquartered in Memphis as well?).
|
--Reviews by Michael Stabile & David Backes
|
