USA
Memphis has renown as a barbecue capital and a hub for Southern soul food.
The slow-cooked, smoke-infused flavors represent the region's pace and character.
Memphis has fame for its dry-rubbed ribs. Spices are applied before slow-smoking, creating a flavorful crust without a wet sauce.
While dry rub dominates, wet barbecue styles are also present, where meats are cooked with or coated in a sweet, tangy, or spicy tomato-based sauce.
Dining in Memphis is generally casual. Tipping is standard (15-20% for good service). Portions are typically generous.
Pork ribs coated in a special dry spice rub then slow-smoked until tender. Sauce is served on the side.
Find them at Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous, Central BBQ, Corky's Ribs & BBQ.
Slow-smoked pork shoulder, shredded, often on a bun with coleslaw. A hearty and satisfying meal.
Find them at Central BBQ, Payne's Bar-B-Que, Tops Bar-B-Q.
A Memphis creation. Tortilla chips loaded with pulled pork, cheese sauce, jalapeños, and barbecue sauce.
Widely available at many barbecue restaurants and casual eateries on Beale Street, including Central BBQ.
Ubiquitous and a staple of Southern dining. It is iced black tea heavily sweetened.
A growing scene of local craft beers and spirits is present.
Memphis has various dining establishments, from casual to fine dining, with options for every taste and budget.
Restaurant Iris shares contemporary Southern cuisine. Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar has unique "flights" of small plates. The Capital Grille is a well-regarded steakhouse.
Central BBQ has consistently delicious barbecue. Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken is a must-try. Soul Fish Cafe shares Southern comfort food. Folk's Folly Prime Steak House is a long-standing institution.
Casual barbecue joints are numerous and share affordable meals. Local diners have classic American breakfast and lunch. Food trucks have diverse, quick options.
Memphis has diverse international dining options. Mexican, Asian (Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese), Italian, and Mediterranean restaurants are present, especially in Midtown and East Memphis.
These foreign restaurants are an alternative to traditional Southern fare.
Explore establishments within Crosstown Concourse for a diverse, communal dining experience.
A multi-use development with various food vendors.
Memphis Farmers Market operates seasonally downtown.
Beyond traditional restaurants, explore places with unique atmosphere.
Classic American breakfast and lunch fare.
Options across the city, from casual to upscale.
Use apps like Yelp or HappyCow (for vegan/vegetarian) to search for restaurants that cater to specific dietary requirements.
These apps assist with finding suitable dining choices.
Call restaurants ahead of time to confirm their ability to meet your needs.
This practice confirms compatibility.
Barbecue can be naturally gluten-free if it is a dry rub without added sauces.
For strict dietary needs, self-catering with kitchen facilities allows full control over ingredients.
Several companies have guided food tours focusing on Memphis's barbecue, soul food, or general culinary scene.
While less common specifically for tourists, some local culinary schools or community centers might have occasional cooking workshops focused on Southern cuisine or barbecue techniques.
Inquire about opportunities to visit local farms or food producers in the surrounding areas.
Modern American cuisine with a focus on wood-fired cooking.
Upscale dining experience.
A multi-use development with diverse food vendors, creating a communal dining experience.
Variety of eateries in a repurposed Sears distribution center.
Attend a food festival if your visit coincides with one.
It creates a lively atmosphere.
A chance to sample a wide array of local flavors.
Do not fill up on appetizers.
