Memphis Black-Owned Restaurants Guide

Since our relaunch in July 2018, we have been featuring local restaurants and businesses in our magazine and on our website as well as on our Instagram and Facebook accounts. We’ve visited so many great local, Black-owned restaurants that we wanted to put them all together in one place for the convenience of our readers. They are organized by neighborhood, then alphabetically.

This is a list in progress. Submit suggestions in the form at the bottom of this guide.

Soulsville/South Memphis

The Four Way

Located in Soulsville since 1946, The Four Way is Memphis’s oldest soul food restaurant. Choose your meats, your vegetables and a dessert and stay awhile. Open every day except Monday, The Four Way is a must for residents and tourists alike.

998 Mississippi Boulevard

Jim & Samella’s House

Talbert Fleming’s menu honors his grandmother’s recipes and changes often. There are the staples like big-mouth hamburgers; you’ll find fish plates (catfish, tilapia or buffalo) on Fridays, when you may also find collard green egg rolls with yam juice for dipping, or tamale nachos. Saturdays feature a waffle brunch paired with a choice of fried chicken, fish or pork chops. On Sundays, one can delight in entrees like oxtail dressing with gravy, pig tails, smothered turkey wings or, Fleming’s personal favorite, chicken alfredo. (Read more by Melonee Gaines.)

841 Bullington Street

Lot-a-Burger

There should be a LOT more talk about Lot-a-Burger because this unassuming spot on South Third is cranking out some amazing food! We stopped by and ordered at the window, though there’s also a drive through. Owner Cosa Thomas makes everything to order, so it takes about ten minutes to get everything bagged up nice and hot. Our double cheeseburger, fries, and strawberry milkshake were perfection. Other menu items include grilled chicken, Philly steak, smoked sausage, and hot dogs. There’s also a veggie sandwich, onion rings, and okra.

2260 S. Third

South Memphis Grocery

This family-owned corner store has so many options, but we opted for the grilled chicken salad and have absolutely no regrets. They have great food at low prices, plus all the market necessities for your home. We recommend calling ahead to have your order ready and waiting.

9 W. Mallory Ave

Downtown

Alcenia’s

This wonderful, colorful place will give you everything you need: a warm hug, a kiss on the head, and a heaping plate of comfort food made with love by the chef herself: Betty Joyce “B. J.” Chester-Tamayo. You can expect items like fried chicken, smothered pork chops, meatloaf, candied yams, spaghetti, green beans, cornbread and as many desserts as she can create. (Read more in Heart & Soul by Patricia Lockhart.)

317 North Main Street

Arnold’s BBQ and Grill

Owned by Mike Arnold, Arnold’s BBQ and Grill boasts two locations—the original in Whitehaven and one downtown, tucked into Monroe Alley between Danny Thomas and Fourth. The menu is extensive. It’s hard to choose between the lamb ribs, the bologna sandwich, and the smoked chicken salad, all of which were recommended to us.

337 Madison Avenue #2

Boycott Coffee

Located inside The Commonwealth building, Boycott Coffee is a fourth wave coffee shop specializing in house-roasted beans and thought-provoking conversation. Stop in for a cold brew or a pour over. On Sundays, Sustain Coffee does educational pop ups.

240 Madison

Chef Tam’s Underground Cafe

Tamra Eddy was raised by a barbecue master, a professional baker and a restaurant owner. She inherited a raggedy old Betty Crocker cookbook upon her grandmother’s passing, and that was the moment she knew she too would open a restaurant. Chef Tam’s Underground Cafe specializes in one-of-a-kind Cajun and soul food fusion. Favorites include the fried chicken, muddy mac-n-cheese, and peach cobbler nachos, though Chef Tam is always creating new dishes.

668 Union Avenue

Cozy Corner

This family-owned barbecue restaurant was started in 1977 by Raymond and Desiree Robinson and is known for its Cornish hens, but don’t pass up the ribs or the delicious rib tips.

735 North Parkway

Cupcake Cutie

Cupcake Cutie is a build-your-own-cupcake lounge in downtown’s South Main area. Each day their case is stocked with seven different cakes, six different types of icings, and 30-plus toppings—so that you can walk out with the exact cupcake you’ve been craving.

300 South Main Street

Curry N Jerk

Curry N Jerk offers a fusion of Jamaican and Panamanian dishes made from family recipes like jerk chicken nachos, oxtails, curry goat and festival bread. Open for lunch, dinner, brunch and happy hour, it’s always a good time to check them out. Look for special karaoke and jazz nights.

126 Monroe Avenue

Dr. Bean’s

There really is a doctor behind Dr. Bean’s Coffee and Tea Emporium. Located inside Stock and Belle downtown, they have a community of other artisans to complement their coffee. Stop by for an award-winning, house-roasted pour-over or coffee soda the next time you are downtown. (Read more by Erika Cain.)

387 S. Main

Evelyn & Olive

“Love. Food. Music. Soul.” That’s the tagline and total vibe you’ll get from Evelyn & Olive, the Jamaican and Southern restaurant on Madison Avenue. Whether you’re grabbing lunch or dinner, Evelyn & Olive has an extensive menu full of favorites like the Rasta Pasta, from their vegan- and vegetarian-friendly options. Other items that got our attention include jerk chicken wings, blackened tilapia roll, curry goat dutch pot, fish tacos, and grilled jerk shrimp. OK, fine—we wanted the cream cheese pound cake too.

630 Madison Avenue

Gay Hawk Restaurant

Gay Hawk Restaurant was established in 1951, was transferred to Lewis Bobo in 1963, and has been passed along to his daughter Terica. She’s been working there almost all of her life and plans to keep this historic restaurant operational for years to come. Come in for the delicious Southern lunch buffet which features classic soul food favorites like fried chicken, baked chicken, catfish, spaghetti, sweet potatoes, greens and peach cobbler.

2265 South Third Street

Interstate Barbeque

The Neely family is world-famous when it comes to barbecue, and it all started at Interstate. It’s literally right off of exit 7 on I-55 and well worth a visit. A large chopped with extra sauce will gently rock you into a welcome food coma. Take friends, though, so you can try the ribs and the spaghetti too. And the pecan pie!

2265 South Third Street

Lunchbox Eats

Get on the (school) bus to Lunchbox Eats for an A+ lunch. We love their commitment to the theme—from the menus to the chairs, everything is looking to school you. However, unlike most school cafeterias, chef/owner Kaia Brewer has made sure everything on the menu is honor-roll worthy. Sandwiches, salads, chicken tenders, mac-n-cheese, lemonade of the day and home-cooked cakes are just a few of the offerings.

288 South Fourth Street

Margie’s 901 Homemade Ice Cream

Pop into Margie’s 901 Homemade Ice Cream on Main Street for a giant cone of cold, sweet goodness. Flavors include chocolate, vanilla, birthday cake, coffee, salted caramel, sweet cream, cool mint, and more. There are even a couple of sorbets. Add a few toppings or order from the menu of tried-and-true creations.

125 South Main Street

Memphis Soul Southern Cooking

Head to Memphis Soul Southern Cooking on South Main for made to order catfish, chicken, salmon, pork chops, pork neck bones, oxtails, greens, cabbage, okra, mac & cheese, spaghetti and more. This colorful and vibrant spot is an order at the counter place with indoor and outdoor seating. The prices may seem on the high side, but portions are large and made with quality ingredients. Our catfish platter definitely came with enough food for two meals.

414 South Main Street

Roxie’s Grocery

There’s only one true way to describe Roxie’s Grocery—and writer Michael Butler Jr. said it best: “It’s an experience, mane!” Roxie’s burgers are made with hand-rolled patties of real ground beef and piled high with toppings. Depending on how many patties you order and how many toppings you get, the bun may or may not be able to contain them. They also serve up some of the best breakfast in the city and have plate lunches during the week. Roxie’s is actually a grocery store with a kitchen in back. They have bread, milk, detergent and even PVC hoses. (Read more by Michael Butler Jr.)

520 North Third Street

Sage

Sage’s concept is “fusion soul,” and the menu changes with the seasons. They offer a daily special and popular menu items such as soul egg rolls, fried green tomatoes with kimchi, salmon sliders, Beyond Burger sliders, and desserts like the sweet potato egg roll. Evenings are a little more upscale with a lounge vibe, where the late-night menu and bar offerings become the highlight.

94 South Main Street

Slim & Husky’s

Slim & Husky’s comes to us by way of Nashville and offers two styles of pizza (that’s right – slim & husky). The slim is long and thin, approaching a cracker crust. The husky is a bit more compact, but still a thin style crust. Ordering online is a breeze, though parking is not – at least during lunch and dinner rushes (look for extra parking on Monroe).

634 Union

Smacker’s

We are thrilled to see how the Smackers brand is growing! Chef and Owner Kevin Jamerson started out with a food truck and then operated a drive thru in Orange Mound for several years and now there are three locations (Bartlett, Downtown and Southaven) in which to get the best salmon club in Memphis. Tammy Willis is the proud owner of the first franchise.

681 Walnut

Tailor’s Union

Tailors’ Union is a downtown speakeasy. From the outside it looks like a tailor’s shop, but that’s just a front for the elegant two-story bar behind the doors.The ground floor features a huge bar, booths, and lounge seating. There are strong tailor-themed cocktails (The Half Slip, High & Tight, In Stitches, and Lost Stiletto) and delicious eats like wagyu sliders, duck tacos, crab cakes and Parmesan truffle fries. Downstairs is The Pocket, and it’s members only with an annual fee. It has a dark, cozy bar, a cigar lounge, and, on Fridays, live music.

115 Union Avenue

Willie Moore’s Family Restaurant

Breakfast all day and a soul food hot bar is what you’ll find at Willie Moore’s Family Restaurant downtown. Willie was out running errands on our visit, but when he’s there, he’s chatting up customers, posing for pics, and generally making everyone feel special. Even when he’s not there, the staff is at the ready to make sure everyone gets exactly what they want. We tried the smothered chicken, macaroni & cheese, cabbage, catfish (cooked to order), spaghetti, green beans, cornbread, strawberry cake, and (free) vanilla ice cream. It was delicious and satisfying to say the least!

109 N. Main

Midtown

The Bar-B-Q Shop

The Barbecue Shop is an award-winning spot for some of the tastiest ribs in town. It was originally owned by Brady Vincent and then passed to the current owners of the shop, Frank and Hazelteen Vernon, in the 1980s. Although the barbecue debate in Memphis is very divided, the Barbecue shop is definitely known as a local favorite. We can’t get enough of their Texas Toast piled high with pulled pork.

1792 Madison Avenue

Best Wings of Memphis

Best Wings of Memphis has you covered with the perfect finger food. Whether hanging with a few folks or 15, you can order wing platters with as few as four wings and as many as 30. With fries, of course! Sauce options include hot, mild, seasoned, honey glazed, bbq, and lemon pepper. Call ahead. Every order is prepared fresh.

2390 Summer Ave.

Brain Food Memphis

Brain Food Memphis offers chef-inspired dishes for pick up at OtherFoods Kitchen in Midtown on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. (They also cater private events.) In addition to our favorite fried cauli wings, they have pasta bowls, racks of lamb, salmon nuggets and sandwiches, grilled and fried shrimp, garlic rolls, sauteed veggies, and fries. Order online for pick up.

1249 Heistan Place

Crumpy’s

Donald Crump opened his first restaurant in 1991. Chicken wings were on the menu, but they weren’t popular until he started giving them away as appetizers. Nearly 30 years later, he’s sold more chicken wings than he can count! There are currently 10 Crumpy’s locations, and all but the Highland & Madison stores are franchises. Each franchise has the signature wings, and then they are free to add to the menu as they like. “One store is trying to do 32 flavors,” says Donald. “Others do party wings.” Read more about Donald in our story (The Other) Boss Crump.

1607 Madison

DeeO’s Seafood

We can only drive by a “daiquiris to go” sign so many times before calling in an order! DeeO’s is known for their seafood, so we got a salmon bowl to “offset” the frozen treat that got us in the door. Each bowl or platter comes with boiled potatoes, corn on the cob, sausage, a signature hard-boiled egg, and a side. (FYI, we went with broccoli but also had the option of fried okra or cheese sticks.) Crab, lobster, catfish, and shrimp are also available, and DeeO’s has wings and pasta too. They’ve got it all. And be sure to check out DeeO’s other location in Cordova.

711 East Parkway

Energy Pasta

This cozy spot on Jackson near Evergreen does not skimp on the portions, and is a great place to pick up a hearty weeknight dinner. We tried the Seafood Pasta (with fresh penne noodles covered in their signature cajun Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, snow crabs, shrimp, mussels, AND sausage, served with warm toasted bread) as well as the blackened catfish and the cajun chicken quesadilla. All are highly recommended by our crew, especially if like us, you like a little positive energy in your life.

1689 Jackson Avenue

The Kitchen

This deliciousness is brought to you by The Kitchen—”Home of the Big Buddy Burger.” The food and service are incredible. Their website says they “cook your food with love,” and we honestly could taste it!

1420 Jackson Avenue

Mahogany Memphis

Located inside the shops of Chickasaw Oaks Village, Mahogany is known for its upscale Southern favorites with a Creole twist. It’s the perfect spot to sip champagne, enjoy a leisurely lunch (or brunch), spend the happiest hours (4 to 6 p.m.), and even see live music (grown folks edition).

3092 Poplar Ave., Suite 11

Payne’s Bar-B-Que

Payne’s has been operating for nearly 50 years now and has barbecue down to a science. Look for the smoke, pull over immediately, and try the smoked sausage sandwich ot the chopped pork sandwich, both overflowing with their classic mustard slaw (and a side of beans).

1762 Lamar Avenue

Plant Based Heat

We stopped in for a vegan feast consisting of agave gold “vings,” a cheeseburger & fries, fried Buffalo cauliflower (they definitely brought the heat!), and Mexican street corn. Everything was so freaking good it really did make us wonder if we could live the plant based life. Owner Ralph Johnson (better known as RJ Groove) says, “I’ve always enjoyed vegan options, but decided to go fully vegan 14 months ago. I think opening a restaurant is a great way to introduce healthier food options that taste familiar to our community.”

669 S. Highland

Riko’s Kickin Chicken

Riko started the company with a food truck in August 2014. His wife, Tiffany, worked for FedEx and helped manage Riko’s social media until they opened the restaurant in 2017. Now Tiffany runs the front of the restaurant while Riko works in the kitchen making some of the best-seasoned wings in town and his famous honey garlic sauce. (Read more by Michael Butler Jr.)

1329 Madison Avenue

Slice of Soul Pizza Lounge

In addition to a menu full of handcrafted pizzas (with the best names ever) and hot wings sure to please, Slice of Soul is covered in beautiful art, has plenty of places to lounge and has a pretty solid cocktail list. Check the website for weekly happenings.

1299 Madison Avenue

Stickem

The menu is kabob-centric with chicken, steak, shrimp, and tofu—mix and match how you please. We tried the new buffalo chicken skewers and were glad we did. Grilled veggies, fries, and salads make the skewers a meal. Plus, you’ll still find some Ethiopian-leaning menu items like the sambusas, veggie platter, lamb shank, whole red snapper, and tofu tibs.

1788 Madison Avenue

Waffle Cream

Visit Waffle Cream, Cooper-Young’s sweet spot. While ice cream and waffles may sound like a funny combination at first, think of it as a waffle cone gone wild. Or a reason to eat ice cream for breakfast! We tried the current best seller, the Strawberry Letter 22, and it only took one bite for us to realize we want to eat all our ice cream on waffles from now on! (Read more in Sweet Success by Jordan Arellano.)

999 Cooper Street, Suite 103

Orange Mound

Ballhoggerz

This award-winning barbecue joint is located in the heart of Orange Mound. Ballhoggerz makes their own seasoning and sauce in-house. The meats are smoked on-site throughout the day. All of that comes together for a very good barbecue experience. The smoked chicken wings are crazy good. They also have a secret menu, but you have to follow their Facebook page to have the secrets revealed. (Read more by Michael Butler Jr.)

1404 Airways Boulevard

Makeda’s

The smell inside Makeda’s is intoxicating. Sugar, butter, love—whatever it is, bottle it up! Owner Pamela Hill named the cookie business after her niece, who was a St. Jude patient. (Sadly, she passed away from leukemia in 1997 when she was only six years old.) Makeda’s is known for their butter cookies, but you can also find chocolate chip and other flavors in regular and mini sizes. Mixing and matching is encouraged. Also, don’t leave without trying an ice cream sandwich.

2370 Airways Boulevard

Phoenix Southern Grill

Holy sandwich—go check out the grilled shrimp po’boy from Phoenix Southern Grill. They are the local experts on grilled Southern food. Their menu boasts all of the grilled goodies you can imagine, including wings, catfish, Angus burgers, turkey burgers, and smoked sausage. They even have a veggie burger. Don’t skip the fries!

1661 Semmes Street

Pop’s Hot Tamales

Pop’s Hot Tamales is cash only, and be prepared to eat in your car. Pop’s is a walk-in, to-go spot with a very delicious and simple menu: hot and mild tamales. A weekly customer suggested getting at least five per person.

2467 Park Avenue, Memphis

East Memphis

Anti Gentrification Coffee Club

The great minds behind cxffeeblack have opened “not a coffee shop” but an anti-gentrification coffee club. Founder Maurice Henderson says the goal is to make coffee part of the Black community. Stop in for a sip of their signature roasts and stay for the good vibes.

761 National

East Memphis Pizza & Subs

We know that their name literally has “pizza” and “subs” in it, but we ordered what looks like the most ridiculously yet deliciously cheesy salad ever. It’s actually called a Veggie Tater, which is basically a huge baked potato bowl, and is one of the things they are known for! If potatoes aren’t your thing, be sure to try the pizzas, subs, wings, burgers, and more!

3736 South Mendenhall Road

Park + Cherry

Park+Cherry is owned and operated by Chef Philipe Dewayne and is located inside the Dixon Gallery. The menu is full of salads, bowls, soups, and paninis, all freshly made by Chef Philipe each day. It is the perfect lunch spot for those visiting the museum and provides a great excuse to visit often!

4339 Park Avenue

Taste a Piece of Peace

Attention shoppers: Oak Court Mall’s Food Court isn’t all chains anymore. We visited Taste a Piece of Peace for some satisfying soul food and highly recommend you do the same! Our veggie plate featured green beans, mac and cheese, and candied yams. We couldn’t stop ourselves from having a piece of truly outstanding pecan pie too. Veggies not your thing? The menu also features hamburger patties, pork chops, catfish, and white and dark meat chicken. Among the sides, you’ll find spaghetti, so you know it’s legit. And in addition to pie, they offer cookies, Nana’s pudding, loaf cake, slushies, and milkshakes.

4465 Poplar Ave. Suite FS03

Bartlett

Biscuits & Jams

Looking for that new breakfast spot? Head on over to Biscuits & Jams! Co-owner and chef Monique Williams (Chef Mo) says that they have live music on the weekends and it can get crowded, so save yourself some trouble and make a reservation! They sure do make the most important meal of the day the most delicious! We tried the Down Home Blues Biscuit with smoked sausage, fried egg and molasses; the Rum Boogie French Toast with rum sauce and powdered sugar glaze; and the Alotta Potata hand cut fries with sauteed peppers, onions, fried egg, Parmesan, and garlic aioli.

5806 Stage Road

JayBear Bake Shop

Owned by sisters Courtni Johnson and Jami Harbin, they offer a rotating menu of goodies including Ooey Gooeys, Sweet Potato Pie, super-moist Red Velvet Cake, and flavor-packed Triple Strawberry Cupcakes “that are a triple threat to sensible diets everywhere.” Jaybear has vegan, gluten-free, and keto options as well and offers wedding consultations, custom cakes, and candy buffets.

7124 US Highway 64, Ste. 103

Quintessential Sweets

Quintessential Sweets specializes in frozen and fried sweets like Italian ice, gourmet funnel cakes, candy apples and more. The candy apple choices include cookies & creme, cheesecake, Butterfinger, Heath Bar, Almond Joy, & caramel, to name a few. We tried the strawberry crumble funnel cake. It did NOT disappoint.

2811 Bartlett Boulevard

Smackers

We are thrilled to see how the Smackers brand is growing! Chef and Owner Kevin Jamerson started out with a food truck and then operated a drive thru in Orange Mound for several years and now there are three locations (Bartlett, Downtown, and Southaven) in which to get the best salmon club in Memphis.

7780 US Highway 64

Cordova

Bones & Yams

Head over to Bones & Yams for smothered pork chops, mac n cheese, fried okra, cornbread, and more! Tiffany, goddaughter of the owners (Mr. Bones and Mrs. Yams), has worked there since they opened in 2019 and says all of their food is equally popular, which means you can’t go wrong.

2256 North Germantown Parkway

DeeO’s Seafood

1105 North Houston Levee Road, Suite 104

Mama Pug’s Sweets

Sweeten your day with a mini bundt cake from Mama Pug’s Sensational Sweets! Maybe you’ve seen these cuties at Miss Cordelia’s or had a chance to catch the food truck, but now you can find them six days a week in the Cordova bakery. Owner & chef Tommie Marshall’s specialty is the “Tennessee Whiskey” which is moist yellow cake infused with that smooth Tennessee Whiskey flavor and pecans throughout. We also tried the “Beale Street Blues” which is flavored with blue raspberry liquer and lemon icing. There are alcohol free flavors and even sugar free. Mama Pug’s also has fresh baked bread, pastries and cakes – yes, including full sized bundt cakes.

8046 Willow Tree Ln

The Pie Folks

How often do you crave the perfect slice of pie, but aren’t quite ready to do the work of making and baking one? That’s where The Pie Folks come in. They believe in making pies like Grandma used to make. Choose from chocolate pie, bourbon pie, apple pie, sweet potato pie, and more!

1028 North Germantown Parkway

North Memphis

Ms. Girlee’s Soul Food Restaurant

Ms. Girlee’s in North Memphis will make you feel right at home. Baxter Leach, who owns Ms. Girlee’s with his wife, Jimmie, participated in the sanitation strike of 1968. “I Am a Man” signs, photographs and articles decorate the café. Beautiful portraits of the family hang on the walls. Many members of the Leach family help operate Ms. Girlee’s. The soul food menu offers something different daily. If you don’t like waiting in line, call at 7a.m. to schedule your pickup. Any later than 9:30 a.m. and you might miss your chance!

629 Chelsea Avenue

⁣Straight Drop

Straight drop is what our jaws did when we rolled up to this amazing Memphis lunch spot, tagged with some of the best graffiti we’ve seen in town. Aside from the spectacular paint job, Straight Drop showed out with their world-famous sauce that we enjoyed on the Royal Shrimp, a plate that included a half pound of shrimp, corn on the cob, potatoes, and sausage.

615 Chelsea Avenue

Sweden Kream

This is a spot you won’t want to miss! “Voted best burger in town” is painted on the wall, and, honestly, it’s not far from the truth! Burgers are made-to-order, cooked perfectly—and they have snow cones. Ooh, heaven is a place in Nutbush. Drop by Sweden Kream at Jackson Avenue and National Street. Bring cash and be patient. It’s worth the wait.

1472 National Street

Whitehaven

Arnold’s BBQ and Grill

Owned by Mike Arnold, Arnold’s BBQ and Grill boasts two locations—the original in Whitehaven and the newer one downtown, tucked into Monroe Alley between Danny Thomas and Fourth. The menu is extensive. It’s hard to choose between the lamb ribs, the bologna sandwich, and the smoked chicken salad, all of which were recommended to us. Pick up takeout or stay to dine in.

6721 East Shelby Drive

Bala’s Bistro

You can find Bala’s Bistro in Whitehaven. Chef Bala Tounkara offers a wide selection of African soul food, including vegan and vegetarian offerings, and some Southern favorites. Food is sold by the pound and you are welcome to try as many things as you like before deciding. (Read more in West Africa Comes to Whitehaven by Camille Patrice Fulton.)

2160 East Raines Road

D’Bo’s Wings n More

In addition to the full D’bo’s food offerings (read: hot wings!), D’Bo’s Wings n More has a separate bar with four daiquiri machines with rotating flavors (mixing-and-matching is encouraged). Wings and daqs, a sofa, a TV and sound equipment—no doubt this is an excellent weekend hang.

4407 Elvis Presley Boulevard

Egg King Cafe

Egg King Cafe is a diner that serves a full breakfast and lunch. Each meal is cooked-to-order, guaranteeing freshness, and they pride themselves on their Southern hospitality. Load up on waffles, omelets and loaded hash browns for breakfast and choose from sandwiches, burgers and wings at lunch.

4458 Elvis Presley Boulevard

Eggxactly Breakfast & Deli

Located in Whitehaven, this spot blew us away with delicious food, incredible service, and an interesting history. This quaint home was recently renovated by owners Wendell and Adrena Jackson. Wendell has been working on turning the house into a restaurant for about three years. The Eggxactly Hot Thighs and Fries meal is the star of the restaurant. Wendell makes his own hot thigh sauce, and it’s great on everything. To get a taste of all that they offer, we tried the fish and tenders, a grilled chicken omelet, and some fluffy pancakes.

1248 Marlin Road

ElectroLyfe Juice Bar

Specializing in freshly made organic pressed juices and smoothies, ElectroLyfe also has salads and wraps. The Good Vibrations juice is made from fresh pineapple, spinach, kale, apples and cucumber.

1417 Elvis Presley Boulevard

Fabulous Flavors & Friends

Chef Precious Jones realized her 20 year dream of owning her own restaurant with the opening of Fabulous Flavors & Friends Dine-In Restaurant in Whitehaven in May 2021. A student of Whitehaven High School and L’Ecole Culinare, Chef Precious also worked for the school system for ten years before starting a food truck with the same name. Now you can find her inside her very own “Waffle House Style” restaurant serving up wings, burgers, catfish, lots of waffles, and more!

2063 E Brooks Road

Muggin Coffee House

Muggin Coffee House is Whitehaven’s first independently owned & Black-owned coffee shop. Owners Ken and Mary Olds opened the shop as a place to foster community. The coffee is created by the owners and roasted by J. Brooks. Their signature drinks, like the cold brew Zippin Pippin will take you on a deliciously fun ride. The prime selection of pastries includes scones, savory muffins, a sweet potato loaf, and a classic chocolate chip cookie.

1139 Brownlee Road

Pollard’s BBQ

If you’re looking for a place to eat some delicious barbecue and talk football, Pollard’s is for you! Owner Tarrance Pollard’s son Tony, of football fame. Manager Denise Pluckett is Tarrance’s sister-in-law and she will happily guide you through the menu, which features ribs, rib tips, pulled pork and links. Sides include green beans, fried okra and spaghetti. That’s not all—they also have a fine, hand-formed, stadium-style hamburger.

4560 Elvis Presley Boulevard

Smooth Living

Smooth Living offers deliciously healthy smoothies, salads, sandwiches, wraps, quesadillas, burritos, and their famous “hood rolls”—crispy, breaded spring rolls stuffed with fresh ingredients. We went the vegetarian route and tried the Veggie Burrito, King Veggie Salad, Cali Smoothie, and the Green Goddess Smoothie.

1263 Winchester Road

Suga Mama Snoballs

Snoballs are good year-round, which is enough of an excuse to try one of Suga Mama’s New Orleans-style treats. Owner Marci Clark opened a storefront in Whitehaven, after achieving a large following with her food truck. The colorful spot is welcoming, and the service is quick. Suga Mama’s specialties include a banana pudding snoball and a cheesecake snoball with real cheesecake added. We went with another one of her specialty flavors, Bob Marley, which is a mix of mango, green apple and red raspberry. You can’t see it, but there’s also a scoop of vanilla ice cream in there. Get up, stand up, and go visit.

1717 East Holmes Road

Trap Fusion

Since opening in Whitehaven, Trap Fusion has been a hot spot for Southern cuisine to go. (There’s only one table!) A couple of things to try: the jerk chicken alfredo pasta or the Skinny Pimp dish with beef hot dog, baked beans and slaw. They use fresh vegetables (instead of canned veggies) and lean meats, in order to make their food a bit healthier than traditional Southern fare, without compromising the flavor. So that means seconds, right? Give them a ring or order online to make these dishes your dinner!

4637 Boeingshire Drive

Uncle Lou’s Fried Chicken

“Uncle Lou’s is one of those dope food spots that is still in the hood, but we all know that’s where you’ll find the best cuisines. You gotta be brave to go, but the reward is worth the risk. Located in a small strip mall on Millbranch not too far from Graceland, Uncle Lou’s is a hidden gem. Uncle Lou’s blessing seasoning and those honey biscuits are everything! Now Uncle Lou has definitely held on to the Food Network appearance a lot longer than necessary, but overlook all that and get the Orange Mound punch!” – Michael Butler, Jr., Chicken Guide.

3633 Millbranch Road

Hickory Hill

Phase 1 Salads By Design

Phase 1 Salads By Design embraced the to-go lifestyle long before it was the norm. They don’t skimp on the grilled chicken salad, as you can see, and, believe it or not, the salad pictured here is a small. Plus, there are 12 dressing options to choose from. Order ahead online and then pick it up at their location in the Hickory Ridge Mall food court, but remember to bring some cash since they don’t accept cards. ⠀

3713 South Hickory Ridge Mall

The Wing Guru

“If Memphis has one thing besides barbecue spots, it’s hot wing spots. They are literally everywhere. They all claim to be the best, but none compare to The Wing Guru. Yes, I said it. These are the best wings you can get in Memphis. Who else can claim they won championships for their honey suicide sauce? The brainchild of Billy Richmond, The Wing Guru has flavors that others hot wing places can only dream of. Spicy taco, dill pickle and garlic Sriracha are all great, but the 901 is one of my favorites. The new Triple J sauce is a game changer as well.” – Michael Butler, Jr., Chicken Guide.

5699 Mt Moriah Road

Waffle Mania

Nestled in the heart of Hickory Hill sits a very unique Memphis dining experience—a chicken and waffle spot that makes you feel right at home. Owner Courtney Temple, who goes by C-Bo, got his idea for opening a chicken and waffle spot after visiting Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles in Los Angeles. He started a food truck in 2015 to begin building his clientele. Everything is homemade, and the recipes come from a combination of his grandmother, his mother and his own spin on Southern staples. (Read more by Michael Butler Jr.)

6712 Winchester Road

Food Trucks

A.D’s

Have you noticed the queue of hungry people at the Mapco on the corner of Danny Thomas and Dr. MLK Jr. Ave.? UPS guys, police officers, and hungry people from all over the city are lining up for a taste of A.D’s grilled smashburgers, hot dogs, and Circle B sausages. Made to order as you hungrily look on, each menu item comes with a bag of chips and a drink for $5. Owner/operator/chef Aaron says he started this delicious hustle when his valet business got a little slow last year. You can find A.D’s at the Mapco during the week and on Beale & Second on the weekends (when the weather is nice). Aaron sets up at 9 a.m. and stays until he sells out.

Artreanna’s Italian Ice

Cool off with Artreanna’s Italian Ice. (Artreanna is the eleven year old owner!) Stop by and pick your favorite flavor of Italian water ice or slushie.

Clay’s Smoked Tuna

Chef Abrian Clay has a food truck and he’s set up on the corner of East Parkway and Summer/North Parkway Tuesday through Saturday. In addition to his signature smoked tuna dip, there are a couple others worth trying like the smoked chicken salad and the smoked buffalo chicken salad. He’s also doing plate lunches and dinners for those of you looking for smoked salmon, wings, catfish and lamb chops!

Daguilty Vegan

We finally caught up with the Daguilty Vegan food truck! Owner/chef Derek Richardson wants people to stop thinking that being vegan isn’t fun. He bangs his gavel for all vegans who order. There are two menus – one innocent and one guilty. The innocent menu features two salads, including a Nashville hot and crispy chick’n salad. The guilty menu features an Impossible Burger, an Impossible Bacon Cheeseburger, lots of chick’n, and a Beyond Brat. We tried the Buffalo chick’n sandwich with fries and felt zero guilt. We love this concept and hope you will too.

Flying Sobie’s

Chef Sobryus (Sobie) Johnson started the Flying Sobie’s food truck with the idea of making Cornish hens an everyday meal. The menu includes fried Cornish hens with a choice of fries, waffles or beans and slaw. Best part? The sauce. Every sauce is made in-house and from scratch. Options include: Original, Buffalo, Memphis Gold, Spicy Memphis Gold, Real Lemon Pepper, Hawaiian Teriyaki and his latest creation, Sweet Caribbean Jerk. (Read more by Emma Meskovic.)

KC’s Southern Style Rice

Visit KC’s Southern Style Rice at 4444 South Third Street. This big red trailer can be found in the parking lot by the flea market. Don’t be surprised if there’s a line—it’s worth it. What makes it “Southern style”? Owner Kirby Carter offers a smokier take on your classic fried rice recipe. They also offer fish plates, sandwiches, tenders, rib tips, and more.

Memphis Pineapple Express

Who needs bowls when you can eat out of a pineapple? The famous pineapple bowls at the Memphis Pineapple Express truck definitely have us rethinking this after trying a shrimp teriyaki bowl! The pineapples are hollowed out, filled with rice and pineapple salsa, the protein of your choice, jerk or teriyaki seasoning, and then drizzled with a deliciously tangy secret sauce. Chef Cammy Henry serves each one with a smile so big, a mask can’t hide it. Other menu items include an island burger, an island chicken sandwich, and wings – all of which come with fries. 5963 Summer Avenue is a regular spot, and weekends are a good time to find them open.

Gourmade

Gourmade has been rolling out delicious eats since 2014. Their menu features delights such as a salmon BLT with housemade pesto; a Lobster Mac sandwich with white cheddar truffle mac and cheese; When Pigs Fly baby back ribs with Brussels sprouts and pickled carrots; and the Appetite for Destruction French fries topped with grilled mac and cheese, smoked pulled pork, and barbecue sauce. No one leaves hungry when Gourmade is on the scene! Find them Thursday-Sunday, usually at a local brewery.

Oink and Moo BBQ and More

Oink and Moo BBQ and More food truck specializes in smoked barbecue, but they work with the demands of customers and can do just about anything—soul food, chicken on a stick, you name it. Their tagline reads: “Your tongue will slap your brain!” Owned by Cedric and Patrice Roby, the truck parks downtown twice a month to give free food to the hungry.

Situational Cravings

This food truck is no joke. Situational Cravings was created to explore the cravings in life and draws its name from the desire to connect innovative multicultural fusions between Southern, Spanish, and Caribbean cuisine. No matter where their truck is, it’s worth the drive for the birria pizza (that’s right) and pineapple Italian ice.

Slutty Salsa

This is the food truck we didn’t know we needed. With menu item names like “Ooo I’m Halfway Meal,” “Meat ‘N’ Between,” and “Soft Smack Tacos,” Slutty Salsa had us ready for a good time. We tried out the highly recommended “Menage-adilla,” the sexy quesadilla featuring grilled steak and chicken, queso, bell peppers, spinach, onions, and shredded cheese. It had us licking our lips. Extra slutty salsa on the side please!

Where We’re Headed Next Based on Your Recommendations:

This is a list in progress. Reach out below and tell us your favorites. Please note, we gather and capture original content and will need time to visit recommended places.