Call it grit. Call it soul. No matter how you slice it, there’s something about Memphis. Like the snaking Mississippi River—that great torrent that forms the city’s watery western border—it won’t be tamed. The essence of the city flavors everything from its signature bathed-in-smoke dry-rubbed ribs to the trendiest of small-plate restaurants. After the city celebrated its 200th birthday in 2020, there’s never been a better time to get a taste of its history and culture for yourself. For a state of local delight, there is an abundance of options of working man’s food. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken offers its clientele a lowbrow ambiance for its perfectly spiced, crispy chicken. No-frills is the definition of Payne’s Barbecue, where they pair a perfect pork sandwich with mustard slaw. A taste of New Orleans creole and culture can be found in Midtown at Restaurant Iris and Second Line, with a roast beef po’boy in one hand and a craft beer in another. The most iconic and perfect way to end your night out in Memphis is at Earnestine & Hazel’s, a dive bar that counts a church, pharmacy, jazz club, and brothel among its past lives.
explore memphis 
Culinary Class
Sushi with Chef Marisa Baggett
Memphis sushi chef Marisa Baggett talks about reimagining how we think about sushi rolls while honoring tradition.
In the Field
New Tennessee Restaurants
These 12 new Tennessee restaurants are serving up inventive dishes that push the fold or reimagine classics to spark nostalgia.
In the Field
New Restaurants in Tennessee
In the Local Palate’s New Restaurants Issue, editor-in-chief and Nashville resident Erin Byers Murray gives an overview of the new restaurants open in Tennessee.
local flavor
Recipes
Central BBQ Nachos
These BBQ nachos combine a delicious glaze and beloved snack for a cheesy, crunchy appetizer. Serve at any event to get the festivities going!
Recipes
Phillip’s Famous Chili
Famous chili from Phillip Ashley Rix combines cocoa powder with roasted jalapeño peppers, and one bottle of hot sauce and beer each.
Recipes
Portabella BBQ Sandwiches
These BBQ sandwiches are perfect for the summertime if you're craving that barbecue flavor but don't want to venture into the blistering heat.
Recipes
Pulled Pork Tacos
You don't need a slow cooker for this one! These pulled pork tacos are too delicious and easy not to make.
Recipes
Roast Beef Po’ Boy
Chef Kelly English of The Second Line in Memphis has a passion for non-fussy, authentic po’ boys and one of his favorites is roast beef.
Recipes
Dark Chocolate Bread Pudding
Since opening Phillip Ashley Chocolates in Memphis, Rix has become sought after for his confections like this dark chocolate bread pudding.
explore nearby
On the Road
Nashville
Nashville is a city fueled by music, steered by history, and revved up with a dynamic food and drink scene.
On the Road
Oxford
Oxford is the perfect destination for the food lovers who crave a cocktail of small-town charm and world-class dining.
On the Road
Tupelo
A culinary hotspot in the South, Tupelo’s food scene is diverse and delicious with more than 160 restaurants.
