The 12 Best Restaurants in Memphis, One of The South’s Culinary Gems

By Kelly McMurtry

Memphis may be synonymous with barbecue and Elvis, but the city’s dining scene is far from stuck in the past. I’ll admit, I came here thinking anything outside a pulled pork sandwich was unnecessary, but Memphis has proven me wrong. The food here is bold, soulful, and constantly reinventing itself—much like the city. From inventive Southern cuisine to globally inspired fare, these are the restaurants that make Memphis a true dining destination.

Hog and Hominy

1. Hog & Hominy

Memphis wouldn’t be the same without Hog & Hominy, a playful Italian-Southern hybrid. The red-eye gravy gnocchi and the wood-fired pizzas are fan favorites, but the dessert—olive oil cake with mascarpone—is the real dark horse. This is a city well-versed in modern takes on Southern ingredients, but the pizza pies and composed plates like shrimp and grits at Hog & Hominy are simply some of the best examples of what Memphis does best.

2. Catherine & Mary’s

Part of the Andrew Michael family, Catherine & Mary’s brings Italian soul food to downtown Memphis. Handmade pastas like the tortellini with black truffle and the rabbit sugo are deeply satisfying, as is the scallops, pictured above, with romesco, braised leeks, fermented pepper, and salsa verde. The wine list is no slouch either, so pace yourself.

3. The Beauty Shop

Once Priscilla Presley’s salon, The Beauty Shop in Cooper-Young has retained its vintage vibe, complete with retro dryer chairs as seating. Chef Karen Carrier’s globally inspired menu shines with dishes like watermelon and wings and grilled salmon with tahini yogurt.

4. SOB – South of Beale

At SOB, gastropub meets foodie haven. The duck fried rice is a standout, and the burger—crowned with brie and onion jam—is pure decadence. With its laid-back vibe and serious food, this downtown spot is a perennial favorite.

5. Tamboli’s

At Tamboli’s Pasta & Pizza, fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas steal the show. This Midtown staple combines sustainable practices with Italian comfort food. The cacio e pepe pizza, dusted with black pepper and Pecorino Romano, is proof that simplicity wins.

6. Comeback Coffee

Not your average café, Comeback Coffee in the Pinch District feels like a modern-day Cheers—if Cheers served oat-milk lattes and croissant sandwiches stuffed with prosciutto. The bright, minimalist space invites you to linger, and the coffee program is serious without feeling pretentious.

7. Bar Ware

Downtown’s Bar Ware is what happens when cocktails and small plates get their groove on. The Thai chili wings are sticky, spicy perfection, and the smoked Old Fashioned is theatrical without being overdone. Sit at the bar if you’re lucky enough to snag a spot.

8. Southern Social

In Germantown, Southern Social brings polished Southern fare to the suburbs. The bourbon-glazed pork chop could convert a lifelong vegetarian, and the shrimp and grits have enough smoky heat to keep you reaching for that second cocktail.

9. Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar

If commitment issues plague your palate, Flight in downtown Memphis has your back. Their “flight” concept lets you sample three smaller portions of dishes, wines, and, as pictured here in all its glory, desserts. The lobster bisque, bison ribeye, and duck breast trio offer a culinary adventure without the need for a passport.

10. The Bar-B-Q Shop

A Midtown institution, The Bar-B-Q Shop serves some of Memphis's finest barbecue. Their signature dish, the Dancing Pigs sauce-slathered ribs, offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The cozy, unpretentious atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

11. Cozy Corner

In the North Memphis neighborhood, Cozy Corner is renowned for its Cornish hens and saucy smoked ribs. This family-owned spot has been serving authentic Memphis barbecue since 1977, and there are few places more synonymous with Memphis-style barbecue.

12. Bog & Barley

A recent addition to East Memphis, Bog & Barley offers an authentic taste of Ireland. The family-owned spot features traditional Irish dishes and an extensive selection of whiskeys, wines, and cocktails. The cozy yet elegant décor complements the hearty fare.