Memphis - March 2024

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The

Sexy,

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and realtor Michelle Koeppen describes what it took to restore a

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Singer Kortland Whalum hails from one of the city’s most musical families. Now he’s forging his own path through the performing arts. ~ by

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Artist Martha Kelly takes a stroll through Overton Park’s Old Forest.

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Don’t I Know You?

This is about Memphis drivers, but it’s also about grace, and grief, and love.

That Memphians are bad at driving is a truth universally acknowledged, or at least universally acknowledged among Memphians. And yes, there’s data to support what we all already know. (Naturally, very few of us think that we ourselves are bad drivers. Everyone else causes the problems.)

It follows logically that we often gripe — aggrieved monkeys inside our little steeland-glass cages, with raised hands and open mouths — at the drivers who are Doing It Wrong. I try, with varying degrees of success, to avoid such demonstrations, but not for high-minded reasons, or not solely. Sure, there’s the simple truth that no one else can hear me, unless my passenger seat is occupied (who wants to listen to that?). Certainly, the offending motorists do not register my helpful critiques of their decision-making skills — they’re in their own cars, griping at someone else, or at me.

More practically, though, I find it helpful to hold two realities in mind when trying to merge into snarled traffic, or when watching someone turn right out of the left-turn lane

First, there is a not-at-all-insignificant chance that the person I’m waving my arms at has a gun to wave back at me. Tuesday afternoon traffic is traumatic enough already — I don’t need to be staring down the barrel of a Glock on my drive home.

Second, on closer look, the other driver could easily turn out to be someone I know, or who knows me: my third-grade teacher, a client, a colleague, a neighbor, a friend, or … you! (Hopefully sans Glock.)

And what could be more Memphis than the coexistence of those two possibilities? The person in the other car might shoot me. Or they might have taught me long division 30 years ago.

Fifteen years ago, without quite meaning to, I moved back to this perplexing, lovable, infuriating city. As such things go, I didn’t realize that’s what I was doing until months or years later. The return was, I earnestly believed, merely a temporary respite to tend to an array of troubles, medical and otherwise.

In the early years back, I remember being jarred each time I ran into someone familiar. Accustomed to the relative anonymity of bigger cities, I balked at the prospect of bumping into God-knows-who in the produce section. I would put my head down and try to avoid making eye contact with anyone, just as a precaution.

But then a funny thing began to happen: Spontaneous encounters — the sort I once tried so hard to avoid — started offering unexpected magic. As the years have gone on

and I’ve lifted my head up more often, willingly locking eyes with strangers(!), moments of unexpected beauty have followed.

To say that Memphis is a small town that happens to be home to a million-ish people is about as clichéd as complaining about the way we drive our cars here. But here I am, it seems, saying both in the space of a few paragraphs.

Because as much as I once wanted to hide, now I love few things more than interactions with strangers or near-strangers who ask me, a little shyly, a question that stitches together all the scraps of my life. “Are you John Traverse’s daughter?” “Was your mom … Cynthia Marshall?” My parents are both dead now — my mother since 2005, and my father since 2020; they were 51 and 64, respectively, facts that feel even more brutal the older I become. Both were educators adored by their students, whose lives were in some cases repositioned thanks to their counsel and example. Those students have ways, it seems, of knowing who I am (see again: small town), and from time to time, work up the nerve to walk up and tell me.

Every time it happens, I feel I’ve been given the world’s most beautiful, least earned gift. One such person, Abby Wingfield, is a spring-semester intern with this magazine. Before enrolling at Rhodes College (where she has, she says, heard stories about my mother, who chaired the English department there — remarkable considering Abby was a toddler in 2005!), she studied at Houston High School, where (you guessed it) my father taught English.

In her internship interview, she mentioned the impact of her favorite teacher: one John Traverse. I have cried before when employees have given notice, but that was the first time my eyes got misty in an initial interview. A few months ago, in what I believe to be a first, someone who has since become a friend recognized me as Cynthia Marshall’s daughter — not through internet sleuthing, but for the beautifully analog reason that I look like my mom, move like she did, walk a dog who looks like one she would have chosen. There have been many, many more such moments, and each one brings me closer to center.

Moments like these don’t happen everywhere, but in Memphis, they’re barely surprising. Now if only we could remember that — how connected we are, how not-invisible, how loved — when we step behind the wheel.

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OUT

AND ABOUT IN MEMPHIS

MARCH 2024

COMPILED BY ABIGAIL MORICI

SUCCESSION Succession explores the world of Black theater through the actions of Steve Harrison, a promising young actor. HATTILOO

THEATRE, 37 S. COOPER, PERFORMING THROUGH MARCH 24

“RADICAL JEWELRY MAKEOVER: THE ARTIST PROJECT” This exhibit brings together jewelers working together to examine mining issues while making innovative jewelry from recycled sources. METAL MUSEUM, 374 METAL MUSEUM, ON DISPLAY

THROUGH APRIL 14

MEMPHIS WHISKEY WARMER

FESTIVAL Memphis Whiskey Warmer Festival is designed for whiskey aficionados and newcomers alike, with distillers pouring samples of premier whiskeys, bourbon, and Scotch and providing a comprehensive education for those looking to learn more. THE KENT, 61

KEEL, FRIDAY, MARCH 1, 6-9 P.M.

LITTLE WOMEN Germantown Community Theatre performs Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel about the March sisters. GERMANTOWN

COMMUNITY THEATRE, 3037 FOREST HILL

IRENE, FRIDAY, MARCH 1-17

RUMOURS ATL

RUMOURS ATL Dance and sing along to your favorite Fleetwood Mac songs at this tribute band’s concert. GRACELAND SOUNDSTAGE, 3717 ELVIS PRESLEY, FRIDAY, MARCH 1, 8 P.M.

NIGHT TRAIN GALA 2024: SOULSVILLE FOUNDATION’S CELEBRATION OF BLACK MUSIC THROUGHOUT HISTORY As the Soulsville Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year, Night Train is a celebration of African-American music and culture, reminiscent of the days when the main means of travel was by rail, and Pullman Porters traveled with Black Americans from coast to coast, often for music events. The night will feature live music, a silent auction, fantastic cuisine, cocktails, dancing, valet parking, DJs, and more. STAX

MUSEUM OF AMERICAN SOUL MUSIC, 926 E. MCLEMORE, SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 7-11 P.M.

AWADAGIN PRATT: PIANO PROWESS

Renowned pianist Awadagin Pratt performs the Memphis premiere of a piece commissioned by Iris and composed by Jesse Montgomery, offering a new perspective on the epic poem “Four Quartets” by T.S. Eliot. GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 1801 EXETER, SATURDAY, MARCH 2, 7:30 P.M.

WELL-BEHAVED WOMEN RARELY

MAKE HISTORY: A HISTORY

PRESENTATION Join Elmwood Cemetery for a presentation of the women who pushed past societal norms in Memphis and are now at rest in Elmwood. ELMWOOD CEMETERY, 824 S. DUDLEY, THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 6 P.M.

SCIENCE OF WINE This event mixes wine tasting, food pairing, and fun activities that explore the science of making wine, with experts on hand to help you discover which wines go with which foods and why. MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY, 3050 CENTRAL, FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 6:30-9 P.M.

BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

This jukebox musical takes you on a journey that realistically documents Carole King’s rise to fame and superstar status as a songwriter and performer. THEATRE MEMPHIS, 630 PERKINS EXTD., FRIDAY, MARCH 8-30

MRS. DOUBTFIRE Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Memphis in an internationally acclaimed new hit musical based on the beloved film and the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. ORPHEUM THEATRE, 203 S. MAIN, TUESDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 12-17

12TH ANNUAL MID-SOUTH DAFFODIL

SHOW See the many different varieties of daffodils that can be successfully grown in our area as the Dixon and the Mid-South Daffodil Society host the twelfth annual Daffodil Show. DIXON GALLERY AND GARDENS, 4339 PARK, FRIDAYSATURDAY, MARCH 15-16

SILKY’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Beale Street will come alive with marching bands, steppers, twirlers, floats, and all sorts of sights for

St. Patrick’s Day. BEALE STREET, SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2 P.M.

SPRING FLING The Memphis Area Master Gardeners present a free educational garden event and plant sale, with informative speakers and demonstrations, a silent auction, vendors, children’s activities, and more.

RED BARN AT AGRICENTER INTERNATIONAL, 7777 WALNUT GROVE, FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 22-MARCH 23, 9 A.M.-5 P.M.

“CHRISTIAN SIRIANO: PEOPLE ARE PEOPLE” This exhibit draws from famed American designer Christian Siriano’s extensive archive, featuring bold creations from Siriano’s decade-plus career that celebrate self-expression for every body at every age. MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART, 1934 POPLAR, FRIDAY, MARCH 22-AUGUST 4

BARTLETT COMMUNITY CONCERT BAND

Bartlett Community Concert Band’s spring concert features a variety of musical arrangements played by Bartlett’s very own talented concert band. BARTLETT PERFORMING ARTS & CONFERENCE CENTER, 3663 APPLING, FRIDAY, MARCH 22, 7:30 P.M.

LA CALISTO This exuberant Venetian opera, as performed by Opera Memphis, mashes up multiple Roman myths, bending both gender and genre as it romps through eternal battles of love versus lust and responsibility versus desire. PLAYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE, 66 S. COOPER, FRIDAY-SATURDAY, MARCH 22-23, 7:30 P.M.

NCAA MEN’S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT March Madness arrives at FedExForum when eight teams compete for two spots in the Sweet 16. FEDEXFORUM, 191 BEALE STREET, FRIDAY & SUNDAY, MARCH 22 & 24

POTUS (OR, BEHIND EVERY GREAT DUMBASS ARE SEVEN WOMEN TRYING TO KEEP HIM ALIVE) In this play delving into the world of politics, power, and presidency, audiences will

CHERRY BLOSSOM PICNIC AT MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN

SPRING FLING

MRS. DOUBTFIRE

SILKY’S ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

AWADAGIN PRATT

MOMIX: ALICE

witness the team of women behind a newly elected president and how they fight to make their mark on history. THE CIRCUIT PLAYHOUSE, 51 S. COOPER, FRIDAY, MARCH 22-APRIL 14

CHERRY BLOSSOM PICNIC Celebrate spring with a hanami, or cherry blossom picnic. Enjoy lunch from Asian-inspired food trucks, take a guided tour through the Japanese Garden, listen to 901 Taiko, and participate in traditional crafts and games. MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN, 750 CHERRY ROAD, SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 10 A.M.-4 P.M.

ARTHUR TRACE – THE ARTFUL DECEIVER The eighth magician in the history of magic to be awarded the International Brotherhood of Magicians Gold Medal, Arthur Trace delights and astounds even the most skeptical of audiences. HALLORAN CENTRE, 225 S. MAIN ST., SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 7:30 P.M.

MOMIX: ALICE MOMIX, a company of dancerillusionists, presents ALICE, inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Audiences will be taken on a journey that is magical, mysterious, fun, eccentric, and much more. GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 1801 EXETER, SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 8 P.M.

MICHAEL FLATLEY’S LORD OF THE DANCE25TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR This production has dazzled audiences across the globe with its unique combination of high-energy Irish dancing, original music, storytelling, and sensuality. ORPHEUM THEATRE, 203 S. MAIN, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 7:30 P.M.

GOLDEN GIRLS - THE LAUGHS CONTINUE Miami’s sassiest seniors have returned for one more hurrah, with Sophia out on bail after being busted for running a drug ring for retirees, Blanche and Rose thriving after founding a sex app for seniors, and Dorothy trying to hold it all together with the help from a much younger love interest.

ORPHEUM THEATRE, 203 S. MAIN, THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 7:30 P.M.

To suggest an event for future editions of Out and About, email abigail@memphismagazine.com.

Patrick’s Neighborhood Bar & Patio

BY MICHAEL DONAHUE

MScanlon opened Patrick’s in 1992 near the Target on Spottswood Avenue, then moved to the current location on Park in 2005.

at same year, Miller bought the business from Scanlon and “spent four months rehabbing the whole building.”

Over the years, Miller made improvements. “We’ve done everything from floor to parking lot to roof to new air conditioning.” Constructed in 1965, the building has been home to Blaz’R Steaks, Molly’s La Casita, Buntyn Cafe, Giovanni’s, and Ernie’s, a club owned by the late Ernie Barrasso.

When Scanlon owned it, Patrick’s was “more known for entertainment and the bar aspect.” “We tried music and all the other gimmick stuff — trivia, karaoke.” Miller decided to con-

ike Miller’s name, as you can probably deduce, is not Patrick. But after 19 years of owning the restaurant named Patrick’s, people often call him that anyway. e eponymous Patrick was Pat Scanlon, the original owner. Miller didn’t want to change the name, which would involve issues like buying a new sign. “ ey already had the brand and a solid business,” Miller says. “We’ve taken it and run with it.”

centrate on “good food and good service,” and says their business has grown every year since.

Miller overhauled the menu, moving to “choice beef instead of select. We upgraded virtually everything in terms of the quality. Our pot roast is a choice roast with potatoes, carrots, and fresh stuff versus powdered gravies and frozen vegetables.”

eir menu now includes 108 items they “make from scratch virtually every day.” And, he says, “We actually use recipes, so it is consistent.” ey serve fried chicken, burgers, steaks, sandwiches, and salads as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options. “Our most popular entrée is our fish and chips, and we sell a ton of pork chops.”

ey also offer daily specials. Some of them, including the

salmon burger, became permanent menu items. “Our staple is home cooking. But I tell people all the time that if you can’t find something on our menu, you’re too picky.”

During a recent dinner hour, diners’ colorful clothes competed with the colorful memorabilia covering the walls — license plates, bumper stickers, and advertisements. One section of the restaurant is devoted to Elvis. Other walls are dedicated to the Memphis Tigers as well as the Memphis Fire Department.

Born in Kansas City, Kansas, Miller began working in restaurants as a teenager. “When I was 14 years old, my parents said, “Look. It’s time to get a job.’” So he washed dishes at a little Italian restaurant. When he revealed how much he hated that position, his boss told him, “Well, learn something else.”

at’s just what he did. Miller came to work in the mornings, made sauces and meatballs, then stayed the whole day. He eventually became kitchen manager. He learned that if he wanted something, he had to work toward it.

After moving to Memphis in 1987, Miller first went to work at Barretta’s Spike & Rail in Bartlett, Chili’s Grill & Bar, and Half Shell. “I’ve been in this business nearly 40 years,” he says, “and there’s still plenty to learn.”

In 2015, Miller opened Heritage Tavern and Kitchen on Poplar, which served “regional American cuisine.” at restaurant closed three years later, but Miller occasionally includes some of those menu items as specials at Patrick’s.

Miller doesn’t do much cooking himself these days, saying, “When we first got here, I was on the line regularly.” When he does get in the kitchen, it’s usually to prepare Brunswick stew, with beef, chicken, and vegetables from “a 100-year-old recipe from my wife’s family,” Miller says. “I’ve got that hand-written recipe from generations ago. at’s the kind of thing that excites me.”

And, he says, “I’m not just duplicating those things, but adding my own flair to them and making people happy. I say, ‘What more personal thing can you do than feed somebody?’”

Over the years, Miller has participated in barbecue competitions. “I’ve taken second-, sixth-, and eighth-place in the rib category at Memphis in May,” he says. is is also Miller’s eighth year as president of the Memphis Restaurant Association. He will serve through 2024 and then “pass the baton to somebody else.”

Patrick’s Neighborhood Bar & Patio is located at 4972 Park Avenue.

MIke Miller, owner of Patrick’s

Patrick’s server Gina Carrero

Michael Donahue dives into a smothered pork chop at Patrick’s.

Chef Michael Cahhal

Our history expert solves local mysteries: who, what, when, where, why, and why not. Well, sometimes.

BY VANCE LAUDERDALE

DEAR VANCE: Whatever happened to Michael Cahhal, who was involved in several popular restaurants in Memphis during the 1980s and ’90s?

— B.T., HERNANDO, MS

DEAR B.T.: When we finally open the Memphis Restaurant Hall of Fame (a pet project of the Lauderdales, but still in the fund-raising stage), we shall devote a special wing to Michael Cahhal — owner, manager, chef, and consultant of more restaurants in our city than just about anybody I know.

Cahhal, born in Iowa in 1947, moved with his family to Los Angeles as a boy. A Commercial Appeal story picked up the saga from there, saying the future chef “started as a teenager washing pots in a West Coast delicatessen and climbed to the point where he ran kitchens at premier establishments across

the United States.” Early in his career he oversaw the opening of restaurants for Sheraton, Hyatt, and other national hotel chains, and in 1975 met Bobbie Christopher, assistant to the manager of a Rodeway Inn in Arlington, Texas, and married her in Dallas.

After stints in Detroit, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., in 1981 the Cahhals moved to Memphis. Bobbie opened an interior-design firm in Cooper-Young, and Michael helped the new Mud Island management open the River Terrace Yacht Club, where the food was considered as spectacular as the sunset views of the Mississippi River. He also operated two smaller, casual eateries on Mud Island: Crawdaddies and Harbor Landing.

In 1983, however, the Overton Square ownership group lured Cahhal to Midtown to convert the indoor ice-skating rink next

to Friday’s — a novelty that never really caught on — into an upscale restaurant, Palm Court. This quickly became one of our city’s most popular dining spots. In a special “Dinner at Eight” feature that year, dining critic Tom Martin wrote: “In selecting the city’s best restaurants, the most surprising choice had to be Palm Court. This is one of the newer dining establishments in the city, but chef Michael Cahhal’s unique cuisine and his restaurant’s pleasant ambience merit its inclusion.”

That was just the beginning of what one reporter called his “mini-dining empire” in Overton Square. While Palm Court focused on Northern Italian cuisine, Cahhal had a special fondness for the food of Louisiana and opened Bayou Bar & Grille. The next year, he opened Le Chardonnay Wine Bar, and the year after that, he invited patrons to join

left: Michael Cahhal revamped the menu of Bombay Bicycle Club when he took it over, but apparently decided against the giant lobster. What a shame.

a members-only dining and wine club, called Michael’s Private Reserve. “I want to create a dining experience for Memphians who want what’s not been available here,” he told reporters.

Oh, and when Overton Square needed a new manager for Bombay Bicycle Club, they hired Cahhal to run that as well. In fact, here he is, riding a giant lobster out the door of that establishment (today, home to Boscos).

Somehow, he found time to serve as president of the Greater Memphis Chefs Association and the local chapter of the Chaine des Rotisseurs. As various newspaper clippings attest, he rarely minced words about the local dining scene. In 1984, he complained to CA reporter Paul Turner that Memphis “remains light years away from glittery tourist meccas such as San Francisco or New Orleans when it comes to fine dining. … It’s very disheartening to know that I own probably one of the top eight restaurants in the city, and some nights do only 30 dinners. Then you drive by Shoney’s and find them packed.”

He was quite an authority on wine. Fredric Koeppel, longtime food and wine columnist for The Commercial Appeal, praised the selection at Cahhal’s establishments in a 1986 column: “The Palm Court wine list, remarkable because of the number of wines and the vintage depth that it represents, offers 241 wines — a staggering number for a Memphis restaurant.”

Hard to miss in his usual spot at the entrance to Palm Court, when he wasn’t in the kitchen, Cahhal served as host, general

PHOTO OF MICHAEL CAHHAL IN OVERTON SQUARE — COURTESY OF SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS LIBRARIES

manager, and sommelier. He made the news for his sartorial choices, known for his bright-red patent-leather shoes, worn with a tuxedo, a wine-tasting cup often dangling from a gold chain around his neck. “When I wear my red shoes, for some reason wine sales go up,” he said.

And then, all of sudden, in 1990 he left Overton Square, selling his interest in his restaurants to other establishments, including Hemmings and Captain Bilbo’s. That’s because he had bold plans for a restaurant that would be entirely his own, featuring the Cajun cuisine of Louisiana. He would call his venture Café Roux, anchoring a small commercial strip on Winchester Road. A man who clearly kept track of the details, Cahhal told reporters this would be his 69th restaurant as a professional chef.

ular favorite of the Lauderdales — it was worth the wait. Diners encountered an astonishing selection of dishes and desserts. In fact, the menu ran to 24 pages, with specialties including Creole Turtle Soup, Swamp Gator Chili (featuring stewed alligator tail), Grilled Voodoo Breast of Chicken, and a half-dozen “Platters of Southwest Louisiana.”

“The Palm Court wine list, remarkable because of the number of wines and the vintage depth that it represents, offers 241 wines — a staggering number for a Memphis restaurant.”

The Commercial Appeal described the new place in this way: “Named after the blend of flour and oil that is the basis for New Orleans’ great gumbos, soups, and sauces, Café Roux will be authentic New Orleans in food and décor. The interior of the 140-seat restaurant is designed to evoke the feeling of a Bourbon Street courtyard.” Bobbie had a role in that, recruiting a Texas artist to provide paintings, and working with the Metal Museum to install ornamental ironwork.

— Fredric Koeppel

Café Roux was a success from the start, serving some 800 meals daily. Koeppel praised the ambitious restaurant, writing in his review, “It’s a long way from Midtown to the corner of Winchester and Old Germantown Road, but I made the journey twice and I’ll make it again, because that’s the location of Michael Cahhal’s new Louisiana-style restaurant.” He concluded his lengthy description of the “suave and satisfying artichoke and oyster bisque, sporting a dense creamy broth” by saying, “Have mercy!” In the “Reviewer’s Choice” section of his column, he wrote, “Try them all.”

in April 1996, telling reporters, “People have always said I’m a pioneer, but I’m tired of picking arrows out of my ass.” No one was quite sure what he meant by that. A month later, though, he closed the original Café Roux on Winchester, saying he would focus all his attention on the larger location at 1740 N. Germantown Parkway. That didn’t work out. In July 1996 Cahhal declared bankruptcy.

Cahhal then traveled around the country, serving as a consultant for various clients and opening a small restaurant in Bar Harbor, Maine. Sometime in the early 2000s he found himself in Philadelphia, Mississippi, serving as the executive chef for the Pearl River Resort, a cluster of casinos owned by the Mississippi Band of the Choctaw Indians.

Originally planned to open in the summer of 1990, construction delayed the opening until October. Based on personal experience — Café Roux was a partic-

Cahhal announced plans for franchises in Baltimore, Chicago, Boston, and Nashville. He hinted at a second location Downtown, “but only if things pick up a little more.” Well, he soon decided they had, because in July 1991 he opened a second location at 94 S. Front Street, just south of Union. But after only a few years, things began to spiral out of control. After opening a third Café Roux in Cordova, Cahhal sold the Front Street location

In 1997, he told reporters he was calling it quits, saying, “I think it’s time to take a break.” But not entirely. He served as a dining consultant for the restaurant/club Mardi Gras, located in the former Hungry Fisherman on Shelby Oaks Drive. The following year, he was back in the kitchen, as the chef of Empire, a nightclub at South Mendenhall and Winchester, this time focusing on Southwestern dishes, with a few recipes from Café Roux thrown in.

Cahhal’s Memphis chapter concluded after 1999. He divorced his wife of 24 years, Bobbie, and for a short time served as the executive chef of Ridgeway Country Club, before leaving Memphis for good. Bobbie stayed in Memphis, taking on interior-design projects for clients like Margaret “The Memphis Belle” Polk.

But time had run out. Michael Cahhal passed away in 2016, at age 76. Because of his service in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War, he was laid to rest in the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Cemetery just outside Philadelphia. Cahhal’s white granite marker lists his rating, or rank, in the Navy as CS2, or “Culinary Specialist Second Class.”

Based on what I’ve told you here, I’d say Cahhal was first-class.

Got a question for Vance?

EMAIL: askvance@memphismagazine.com

MAIL: Vance Lauderdale, Memphis Magazine, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101

ONLINE: memphismagazine.com/ask-vance Or visit him on Facebook.

The Wide Wide Sea

In his latest book, Hampton Sides wrestles with the legacy of one of Britain’s most famous explorers.

BY SAMUEL X. CICCI

This country has, to understate matters, undergone a profound reckoning in recent years with many of our historical figureheads. Statues and monuments that lionized heroes and antiheroes of yore have been felled as we have collectively reexamined long-held legacies. A modern eye has at times perceived that, well, plenty of the leaders in our grade-school textbooks weren’t such great folks after all. Memphis had a front-row seat to the removal of the statue of Confederate general Nathan Bedford Forrest in 2017; the statue’s former location in the medical district — Forrest Park — was renamed Health Sciences Park.

It’s instructive to cast a critical eye on historical figures, especially as efforts are underway in some quarters to whitewash the more unsavory aspects of our history. Author (and former writer for this very magazine) Hampton Sides is no stranger to tackling complex historical issues, from the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Hellhound on His Trail ) to the United States Army’s fierce clashes with the Navajos (Blood and Thunder). His latest venture, The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook, takes to international waters, tracing the final voyage of Captain Cook, the renowned British explorer and cartographer.

Recognized as one of history’s most talented mapmakers, Cook’s achievements include the first European contact with the east coast of Australia in 1770, and the first person to cross the Antarctic Circle. What separated Cook from many of his peers was an almost unheard-of respect, at the time, for the cultures he encountered during his voyages. Sides writes of Cook’s experience with a Tahitian man named Mai, who after ferrying him back to England, feels a profound responsibility to reunite him with his people. When mapping out new locations, Cook

refrained from giving them European-inflected names and instead attempted to show respect by providing names from the locale’s native language. Yet his exploration was not without complicated consequences.

“Cook was an explorer and a navigator, not a conqueror or a colonizer,” Sides writes in his author’s note. “Yet throughout history, exploration and the making of maps have usually served as the first phase of conquest. In Cook’s long wake came the occupiers, the guns, the pathogens, the alcohol, the problem of money, the whalers, the furriers, the seal hunters, the plantation owners, the missionaries.”

That unsettling dichotomy is at the heart of The Wide Wide Sea. Despite Cook’s willingness to engage with and seek to understand other cultures, his many first contacts with people in the Pacific led to problems down the line. And, as Sides acknowledges, much of the recorded history comes from the side of the British.

The Wide Wide Sea ’s main focus is on Cook’s third voyage in 1776, which led to his exploration of — and eventual demise on – the islands of Hawaii. It is perhaps the most compelling of Cook’s adventures, where his normal approach to exploration shifted, and he became more prone to violence and aggression.

Sides treats his subject matter with care, combining European historical records with oral accounts from the island communities Cook visited during his travels. Despite diary entries and travel logs, the historical records are silent on the question of Cook’s psyche. That absence lends an air of mystery to the tale: How did a successful navigator, one who placed a premium on the health and safety of his crew and the communities they encountered, get it so wrong? Was his approach an admirable effort to create connections, or simply the first step on paving

an imperialist foundation?

I jumped into The Wide Wide Sea shortly after reading another nonfiction seafaring epic, David Grann’s The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder Early passages from the latter (an ultimately enjoyable read) took a deep dive into the operational workings of the British Navy, which, while important to understanding the ensuing events, gave me the dry, yawning feeling of a long history lecture.

Sides, an old hand at weaving gripping historical tales, commits no such offense. The Wide Wide Sea is many things at once, yet with the competing narrative facets never getting in the way of another. There’s an unpacking of many context clues — his treatment of locals, or a unique approach that staved off such nightmares as scurvy — to see what makes Cook tick as a person, and why he might draw more scrutiny than his other seafaring peers. At the same time, it’s a historical epic, the desperation and grittiness of long sea voyages emerging from Sides’ prose as Cook and his crew navigate the perils of sea travel and first contact.

Never lost in the excitement of the adventure is the careful examination of how Cook’s reputation has slowly evolved. Is Cook the leader of swashbuckling epics, Sides muses, or simply the tip of an imperialist sword? There’s no easy answer, he says, but it’s an important question to ask, as many wrestle with the long shadows of colonialist history and exploration. And The Wide Wide Sea is as close and compelling a look into Cook’s legacy as we’ve seen.

The Wide Wide Sea releases on April 9th. Hampton Sides will host a book signing at Novel on Thursday, April 18th.

Hampton Sides

A SPORT TO RELISH

Silly name aside, pickleball is the new “it” sport.

BY FRANK MURTAUGH

If pickleball were a dog, it would be the most adorable, playful, comfortable mutt on four legs. Pickleball is, of course, a sport — perhaps the fastest-growing in popularity on the planet — but you can still call it a mutt. The game has roots in tennis: striking a ball across a net, no more than one bounce allowed. But a pickleball court is virtually half the size of a tennis court, a player required to cover space more akin to racquetball or squash. And a pickleball paddle is made of wood. It feels like you’re swinging a supersized ping-pong paddle, but at a plastic ball considerably larger than those in table tennis . . . and with holes to better cut through air.

one of

If you’ve played other racquet sports, pickleball will be a nice fit. If you’ve never so much as handled a racquet (or paddle) of any sort, you’ll still find a pickleball court comfortable, if not cozy. Pickleball’s popularity is soaring — not one, but two professional tours — because it welcomes players of all ages, shapes, and sizes.

“ ere’s no age restriction, young or old,” emphasizes Taylor Taylor, a pickleball instructor currently playing on the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) senior tour. “[You can be] big or small, and not all that athletic. e sport is inclusive, and it can be learned in two hours.” Taylor grew up with tennis (she played collegiately at the University of Virginia), but faced somewhat of a crisis after a second knee surgery in 2016 threatened her tennis-playing lifestyle. “I was freaking out,” says Taylor, 52. “ e surgeon advised me not to play tennis anymore. And that was a blow. Tennis was my competitive outlet, paid for my education, opened so many doors. I was in my office at

e Racquet Club a week later, and Randy Stafford came by and wanted to introduce me to pickleball. I laughed; I’d never heard of it. [Side note: Today, Stafford manufactures pickleball paddles in Collierville.] We went down [to a tennis court], adjusted the net, and played some pickleball. I was hooked from that minute.”

Before we go any further: The sport could use a better name. First played in 1965 in the backyard of Washington congressman Joel Pritchard, the game received its tag from Pritchard’s wife, Joan. It reminded her of a “pickle boat” in crew, one made up of oarsmen left over from other boats. Not only does the name not properly describe a fun sport, it required this entire paragraph to explain.

Without going deeply into the rules or scoring system, the objective of pickleball is similar to that of tennis or ping-pong: strike the ball in a way that it clears the net and lands in your opponent’s court, ideally

Pickleball instructor Taylor Taylor with her weapon of choice.

A Company & Career Built Upon Trust.

in a place where your opponent cannot return the ball. But you serve underhand in pickleball and the court (20 feet wide, 44 feet long) is essentially half the size of a tennis court (27 feet wide for singles, 78 feet long). Less space to cover, and with a plastic ball that can’t approximate the velocity of a well-struck tennis ball.

Taylor started what she describes as a virtual pickleball organization — the Mid-South Pickleball Club — that paid the Racquet Club for use of its indoor courts on certain days of the week. In a short period of time, the club had 200 members. “It’s easy to learn to play pickleball, but it’s hard to master,” notes Taylor. “ ere were opportunities for people like me, who were athletes but suffered injuries. And there were opportunities for people who weren’t very athletic. It’s pretty simple.”

I played pickleball before it was cool. Long before tennis legends John McEnroe, Maria Sharapova, Andre Agassi, and Steffi Graf competed in a made-for-TV event. My wife and I were members at Healthplex, the fitness center operated by Baptist Memorial Hospital in the 1990s. What I loved most: I could deliver a full tennis swing — wham! — and keep that holy plastic spheroid in the court. Got home one night and insisted over dinner that I’d discovered a way to play ping-pong . . . while standing on the table. Pickleball is quickly addictive. Almost 30 years later, I still play tennis. But I own pickleball paddles.

e general perception may be that pickleball is a transitional sport, again, for people who have loved tennis but are getting older or functioning with compromised joints.

e fact is, the average age of a pickleball player has plummeted as the sport’s popularity has grown. According to Pickleheads (check out their website), the largest age group of pickleball players is 18 to 34 (28.8 percent of all players). “ e majority of people in the Mid-South Pickleball Club were not members of e Racquet Club,” says Taylor. “ ey just wanted more pickleball than they were getting at their church

or rec center. And it was mostly word of mouth. There was so much community, a real give-back. [Experienced players] would hit with newbies, then they’d bring two of their friends. It was a form of mentoring.”

“First and foremost, smile, relax, and have fun,” adds Mike Bilger, a pickleball instructor for seven years, currently at the Memphis Jewish Community Center. “The first few lessons usually cover the shot mechanics and the dink stroke.” The “dink” is a soft shot that lands just over the net, in the opponent’s non-volley zone (or “kitchen” in pickle-talk).

As for the transition from tennis, don’t grab a pickleball paddle thinking you are pre-programmed for one of those pro tours. “The people who are really good in pickleball don’t hit the ball very hard,” stresses Taylor. “Pace in pickleball is counterintuitive. I like to slow the ball down — dink it into the non-volley zone — until you get impatient and make a mistake. I want you to have to hit up on the ball, so I can hit down on the ball. That’s very different from tennis.” Remember, the ball is plastic, and the paddle is solid wood. As Taylor puts it, “the equipment dictates the strategy.”

“The biggest frustration in making the transition from other racquet sports is the footwork and positioning,” notes Bilger. “Tennis players have the muscle memory of turning their side to the net to hit a forehand or backhand. In pickleball, you tend to be more square to the net when hitting a shot. And in tennis, there’s more side-toside motion, especially for baseline players [in doubles]. With pickleball, there’s more forward motion.”

Nervous about playing for the first time? Back to that culture of community. The rules are simple enough, and the technique so adaptable that a person can play a game her very first day on a court. “My favorite students,” says Taylor, “are those who don’t have racquet-sport backgrounds, those who haven’t picked up a paddle. We don’t have to undo the things they did well [on a tennis court]. You can’t step-and-punch a volley on a pickleball court. You don’t turn sideways in pickleball; it’s an open-stance game. You don’t have much of a backswing. Tennis people will get beaten if they continue to play tennis on a smaller court.”

There are abundant venues in Shelby County where you can play pickleball (some indoor courts, some outdoors). Bluff City Pickleball is hosting a grand opening at its new indoor facility (a former Malco cinema at 2809 Bartlett Blvd.) on March 23rd. Visit usapickleball.org , enter your zip code, and find the courts nearest you.

ARTS

The Artist’s Eye

Remy Miller and Joe Morzuch’s “Marking Time” at the Dixon explores time, artistry, and the ordinary.

BY ABIGAIL MORICI

In nearly every introduction to drawing class, the instructor tells the students to draw using their eyes, not their brains. It’s a matter of depicting what you see, not what you think you should see. As a practice, it pushes the artist to sit in prolonged observation, to study the shapes and lines that make up a subject, their proportions and relation to a space. It’s a process, a skill to be learned and honed.

Of course, the same could be said for visual arts writ large. So says artist and professor Remy Miller: “What I know is that art-making — drawings, paintings, sculpture, whatever you’re going to do — is a learned thing. I don’t believe much in talent, and I don’t care about it. It’s not mysterious. It’s not something that comes down from above and you get it and other people don’t. If you want it, if it’s something you care about, you can learn to do what you do.”

Formerly a dean at the nowclosed Memphis College of Art and today an instructor at East Arkansas Community College, Miller has taught art in some

capacity since 1984. During his tenure at MCA, he hired Joe Morzuch to teach drawing and later painting. “He was kind of a linchpin person who was great at getting people together,” Miller says of his friend and peer. “And both Joe and I believe that if [art-marking] was an inherent gift from somewhere, then you wouldn’t have any reason to go to art school.”

Yet, the two agree that learning doesn’t end in art school, nor is it linear. “You make one painting,” Miller says, “and maybe there’s something that you are excited about or happy with and that painting prompts you to make something else. Or you make a painting and it falls short and so you think, I’m going to nail the next one. And so, one painting leads to another painting and it’s just a really slow kind of investigation. The more I do it, the more there is to discover.”

That constant investigation — the urge to observe, experiment, and improve — reveals itself both in the process and in the final product. “Painting is a way of marking time,” Miller writes in his artist statement. “Time is the aggregate of painting.” To that point, the artists’ latest collaboration — a joint exhibition at The Dixon Gallery and Gardens titled “Marking Time” — seems fitting as it puts these two friends’ works into counterpoint, their paintings a record of their labors.

The exhibit, which opened in January and will be on display through April 14th, features Miller’s inky landscapes of Scott’s Creek in Lakeland and Morzuch’s impasto still-lifes of ordinary objects and self-portraits. Through their different representational aesthetics, the pair embrace the painterly, effortful aspects of their medium, forgoing any attempts for photorealism and opting instead for strokes, blotches, and scrapes of paint that leave evidence of their hands. With neither of the artists illustrating grand narratives, both favoring ordinary and unassuming subjects, their goal is to uplift the present moment’s mundanity through their artistic endeavors.

Before college, Miller, who grew up in the Northeast, had little exposure to visual art. “We moved around a bit,” he says. “And so I went to three different high schools, and I had one art class just for a semester in my junior year of high school. And that was it. I didn’t draw regularly. It just

wasn’t an activity that I did on a regular basis. I was pretty directionless as a kid.”

He goes on to say, “The first year that I was in college, I took a couple of art history classes, and that certainly had some bearing on the idea of going to art school. But I really just learned how to be a student the first year in college — I didn’t have any particular focus. I just knew I wasn’t going to stay at that school. I was going to transfer to the University of Connecticut. And so I can’t say that I made any real decision. I had no business applying to an art college. I don’t know if this is the thing to say in an interview, but the reason I went to art school was because my girlfriend at the time and her mother thought that I made nice Christmas cards.”

Though Miller speaks warily of his younger self, he clearly made an impression in the admissions process and was accepted, eventually earning his BFA in painting at the University of Connecticut and later his MFA at Bowling Green State University in Ohio.

“When I went to [undergrad], it was a huge learning curve,” Miller admits. “I enjoyed it, and continued it. I didn’t know if I was any good at it, but I could see that I could learn, I could get better. It was probably two or three years before I really thought, maybe I can do this. And so it was not until, I think, probably my junior year that I really decided I can paint.”

On the other hand, Morzuch always knew he was going to be an artist. “I don’t know if it was ever a plan or anything,” he says. “It was just something I always did. I’ve always drawn. I grew up just north of Chicago, and would go to the Art Institute a lot, so even as a kid I was going to a major museum and surrounded by art. I could find art when I wanted it.

“It probably became really clear in high school,” he says. “I had some great teachers in high school, and that’s when I probably started to think, this is something that I can do for the rest of my life.”

Morzuch earned his BFA from Western Illinois University in painting and drawing in 2002 and his MFA from Southern Illinois

Joe Morzuch, Garbage Bags with Flags and Plastic Netting, 20172020; Oil on canvas on panel; Courtesy of the artist

University at Carbondale in 2006. Like Miller, Morzuch has spent most of his professional career teaching in colleges, presently as an assistant professor at Mississippi State University.

Even with their divergent backgrounds — one, a once-hesitant artist; the other, almost instinctual in his identity — both echo a natural pull to painting as their choice of medium. “The most beautiful things I’ve seen have been paintings,” Morzuch says. “I’ve always seen beauty in paintings and thought of that as a really interesting, worthwhile struggle. … I think for both of us it begins with looking.”

For Morzuch, that means observing the ordinary, his choice subject for his still-lifes. Chairs, step ladders, garbage bags with flags and plastic netting — these are the objects that entrance the artist. “I like the challenge of trying to see beauty in the everyday or in the overlooked,” he says, “but more so I think it’s the challenge of making a painting of things that we see every day that is compelling, interesting, and maybe a little mysterious. How can I look at something that I’ve seen every day for years and really examine that thing? How can I connect to it in a way that seems new or fresh? I’m always trying to balance what I’m seeing objectively with what I’m feeling about it.”

He adds, “I was raised Catholic. There is a certain reverence for objects metaphorically and I’m sure that is in my background. So sometimes the kind of tabletop is almost sort of like an altar in that regard. But I think more than that, the table is a surface, it’s a site for gathering, it’s a domestic object. So the table represents metaphorically — in a very sort of mundane way, but also in maybe a more elevated, associative kind of way — the time that’s invested in the work you know — the looking, the analyzing and representing.”

For each painting, Morzuch spends time arranging the objects methodically, taking mea-

surements and working with plumb lines and proportional dividers to guide his technique.

Even with such precise preparations, his process, he says, is one of consistent revision, as he often reworks the paint on the canvas.

“I might start a painting with a kind of initial idea, but that always changes,” he says, “and once the painting starts to develop, it becomes something else — hopefully something better than the initial idea, and that revision adds up and creates a surface that I think maybe has a richness or a density about it.”

to strive not for accuracy in depicting a subject but for visual harmony. “It’s not like it’s a photorealistic thing,” he says. “I’m not trying to imitate every vein in every leaf or anything like that. It’s more when I’m looking for images, I react to what I think would make an interesting composition and range, and that’s what I’m looking for.”

Right now, what Miller finds most interesting is the transparency of water. “How to make that illusion happen is really a big part of it because something about that drives me crazy. I just love that.”

If he needs to adjust an object, move it slightly, he records it in the painting, the effect almost like a subtle collage of ephemeral scenes. There’s a hushed quality in his work. The colors are muted, and the composition, even with sharp lines and rough strokes, retains a certain softness.

“I want there to be a kind of stillness,” Morzuch says of his work, “and maybe an opportunity for contemplation. I don’t want the paintings to be an easy read. I am looking to always balance opposites in a way. I definitely don’t think of myself as a realist painter, but I’m not an abstract painter. I want to be somewhere in the middle. I want there to be a kind of tension.”

In a similar fashion, Miller often invokes Richard Diebenkorn’s idea of “rightness” in his own landscapes, the goal being

Last year, when Miller began creating the landscapes of Scott’s Creek featured in the Dixon show, it reminded him of his childhood days spent in Horseheads, New York, where he played in a stream. “I never thought about it in a direct sort of way but that experience, being able to go to this stream, was something that I loved as a kid. If I knew what I knew now, as an 8-year-old kid, I would have made these paintings then, but I don’t think of these paintings as nostalgic. It’s just something that I found interesting as a kid and I

find it interesting now. And now I know enough to take on the challenge of making the things that I’m making now.”

For his paintings, Miller often portrays unassuming perspectives of the creek, offering only pockets of what the natural beauty offers as if in a tease. He works in gouache, charcoal, and pastel, shaping the water’s delicate features from bold strokes and saturated colors that bleed into one another. The effect is whimsical, almost storybook.

“I am not the type of person that sits around and thinks, how can I do something that’s original?” he says. “That is a simplistic way of looking at things. You do what you like; you do what you believe in. You take on the subjects that you think are interesting that you know, that drive or in some way are important and you hope that other people will see it. And if they don’t, it’s my fault. It’s not their fault.”

For both artists, time is a central facet to their bodies of work. Their artistic processes time-consuming: each layers paint to create almost sculptural pieces, Moreover, their choices of still-lifes and landscapes by nature are about time.

“Still-life as a genre, and the history of the still-life, has always been embedded in a reminder of mortality and time — think of rotting fruit or flowers in full bloom,” Morzuch says. “A landscape never looks the same from minute to minute, so that definitely is a point of the time.”

But the reflection on time doesn’t exist for the artists alone — it’s a call for the viewer to join in, to reflect on the marks of time with the artists, to take in the work before them, celebrating the mundane. It’s a call to see what’s there — and not what they think should be there.

“Remy Miller and Joe Morzuch: Marking Time” is on display at The Dixon Gallery and Gardens until April 14th. Its run coincides with “Breaking the Rules: Paul Wonner and Theophilus Brown,” on display until March 31st.

Remy Miller, Scott’s Creek, 25 May 2023; Gouache/charcoal on paper, Courtesy of the artist

2024 FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

Advanced Dental Implant and TMJ Center — 55

Agape — 88

B.B. King's Blues Club — 87

Babcock Gifts — 124

The Bailey Law Firm — 75

Baltz & Sons Concrete — 34

Blair Parker Design — 84

Bob Richards Jewelers — 77

Boyle Investment Company — 51

Broadway Pizza House — 107

BrownDog Lodge — 74

Choates — 80

Clay & Land Insurance, Inc. — 82

Consolidated Medical Practices of Memphis, PLLC — 92

Corky’s Ribs & BBQ — 35

The Crone Law Firm — 76

De La Belle Wellness & Spa — 125

Evangelical Christian School — 72

Fertility Associates of Memphis — 114

Fleet Feet — 117

Forest Hill Dental — 29

Gant Systems — 81

You’ll find on the pages listed here the talented individuals behind many of Memphis’ favorite brands. This year’s Faces of the Mid-South include doctors and lawyers, rug sellers and pizzaioli, independent schools and centers for independent living. These impressive people and organizations contribute to making Memphis great.

Glankler Brown PLLC — 86

Glo Medical Aesthetics — 89

Harding Academy — 48

HHM CPAs — 28

Holloway Furs — 78

Hotel & Restaurant Supply — 116

Huey’s — 43

Independent Bank — 52

Kirby Wines & Liquors — 126

Lakeside Behavioral Health System — 38

The Langsdon Clinic — 36

LRK — 32

Massey McClusky Fuchs & Ballenger — 54

Mays & Schnapp Neurospine and Pain — 97

Memphis Center for Family & Cosmetic Dentistry — 37

Memphis Dermatology Clinic, P.A. — 71

Memphis Orthodontic Specialists — 96

Mid South Night Lights, LLC — 85

Mid-South OB-GYN — 94

Minesh Pathak, MD — 93

OrthoSouth — 120

Paradox Catering & Consulting — 47

Peel Law Firm — 46

People’s Custom Rx — 53

Presbyterian Day School — 39

Regional One Health — 44

The Rices — 73

RKA Construction — 50

Robinson Tree Service — 111

Semmes Murphey Clinic — 40, 90, 108, 118, and 122

Smith's Plumbing Services — 110

Southland Casino Racing — 79

St. Mary’s Episcopal School — 27

Tactical Magic — 42

Taghavi Oriental Rugs — 95

Tara Felice Interiors — 83

Todd Adams, Keller Williams Realty — 115

United Way of the Mid-South — 106

Van Atkins Jewelers — 31

Vascular and Vein Institute of the South — 121

The Village at Germantown — 113

Walnut Grove Animal Clinic — 30

Wilson Public Relations — 112

Woodland Presbyterian School — 49

At St. Mary’s Episcopal School, we know girls. We know how they learn best. We know what motivates them. We know how they tackle challenges in the classroom and in life. And we know how to encourage and enable each student to reach

her full potential. A St. Mary’s education goes beyond academics. We help girls grow into young women of integrity, compassion and confidence.

Come join the tradition. Call to schedule a visit.

60 Perkins Extended, Memphis, TN 38117 I 901.537.1405 I stmarysschool.org

THE FACE OF ACCOUNTING

HHM CPAS >>>

HHM CPAs is a full-service accounting and advisory firm with locations in Memphis, Chattanooga, and Cleveland, Tennessee. As the third largest public accounting firm in Tennessee and recognized as a Top 100 Accounting Firm by Inside Public Accounting (IPA), HHM CPAs offers services

MEMPHIS: 901.683.4234

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to a variety of industry groups including automotive dealerships, manufacturing, distribution, real estate, construction, and nonprofits. HHM CPAs are more than accountants — they are your trusted business advisor. For additional information, please visit www. HHMCPAS.com.

CHATTANOOGA: 423.756.7771 |

CLEVELAND: 423.708.3980

HHMCPAS.COM

THE FACE OF AESTHETIC DENTISTRY

FOREST HILL DENTAL >>>

Ryan Vick, DDS

World Class cosmetic and comprehensive dentistry is what to expect when visiting Dr. Ryan Vick.

Dr. Vick is passionate about his patients’ smiles and helping them to achieve and maintain optimal oral health, as a beautiful smile can completely improve one’s self image and confidence, and is a pillar of having great overall health. He believes that this starts with spending the time to create a trusting, lasting relationship with his patients.

Patients can expect a preventative and

comprehensive approach to oral health. Sedation dentistry allows them to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile in a relaxed environment. Dr. Vick also uses state-ofthe-art technology, along with conservative techniques, to deliver lifelong lasting smiles.

Dr. Vick is a proud member of: The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, The American Dental Association, and The Tennessee Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Dr. Vick offers a full array of general dentistry and cosmetic dental services, and is welcoming new patients.

3011 Centre Oak Way, Suite 102, Germantown, TN 38138 | 901.701.7500 | vickdds.com

With every patient and client, we are guided by our core values: Integrity, Excellence, and Compassion. Our professional staff is highly trained and well educated. All employees participate in regular training and

development programs. Walnut Grove Animal Clinic is a full-service, state-ofthe-art, small animal hospital located in the center of Memphis at the corner of Walnut Grove Road and Tillman. New clients are always welcome.

THE FACE OF ANTIQUE & ESTATE JEWELRY

VAN

What began as a family-owned group of department stores is now known for all things jewelry! Van Atkins Jewelers, the South’s leader in Estate Jewelry and diamond solitaires, was opened by Chuck Cooper in 1990. Today, three of his sons are leading the way. Chuck, Van, Sam, and Ray have all graduated from the Gemological Institute of America in California. The original store is in historic downtown New Albany, Mississippi, where most days you will find Chuck. Chuck’s eldest son, Van,

is at the helm in the Oxford location on the square, along with Ray, who is responsible for all hand-engraving and customer assistance. The newest addition to the family-owned stores is the downtown Tupelo, Mississippi, location to be managed by Chuck’s second-in-line son, Sam. The youngest son, Jack, a graduate from MTSU in aviation, is a private pilot for Net Jets. Thank you, Mid-South, for featuring us, and we look forward to seeing you. You Know She’s Worth It.

129 W. Bankhead St., New Albany, MS 38652 | 662.534.5012

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124 West Main St., Tupelo, MS 38801 | 662.480.5012 | VanAtkins.com

ATKINS JEWELERS >>>

Left to right: Sam Cooper, Ray Cooper, Rhonda Cooper, Chuck Cooper, and Van Cooper

THE FACE OF ARCHITECTURE

LRK >>>

LRK’s successful integration of planning, architecture, interior design, and sustainability evolved naturally from the collaborative spirit of our founding partners and their unwavering commitment to the art of listening. As LRK celebrates 40 years in Memphis, we continue to build upon our core beliefs: that openness and trust are essential; that willingness to question, explore, and grow fuels the ability to create transformative, enduring places of purpose; and that architectural excellence enhances quality of life. Since 1983, Collaboration Created.

Collaboration Created | LRK.com | 901.521.1440

2024 FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF BACKYARD LIVING

BALTZ & SONS CONCRETE >>>

Kevin Baltz, President and Owner Kevin Baltz went to work for his grandfather’s business at the age of 11, working summers through grade school, high school, and college. He partnered with his father in 1994 and ultimately took over the business only a few years later. Initially started as a utilitarian concrete operation, under Kevin’s helm the business has evolved into an award-winning custom-design and build company, specializing in all aspects of backyard living. This multifaceted family business offers all types of

concrete hardscapes and masonry: patios, driveways, pool decks, walls, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, and bars. Their team also offers custom-built structures including pergolas, arbors, and screened enclosures. And they have garnered a well-earned reputation for their transformative pool renovations and reconstruction. Serving the Memphis area for over 75 years, Baltz & Sons Concrete remains a pioneer in their field, built on the three-generation foundation of integrity, quality, vision, and experience.

901.465.4337 | BaltzConcrete.com

THE FACE OF BAR-B-Q

CORKY'S RIBS & BBQ > > >

Jimmy Stovall, Owner and CEO

We are celebrating our 40th anniversary this year. We are very proud to be a Memphis family business and believe we have the best customers in the world. We welcome locals and tourists from around the globe visiting Memphis. Our people are the secret sauce. We are truly grateful for all of our incredible employees; many of them have been with us since 1984. We continue to slow

smoke all of our award-winning barbecue over hickory wood and charcoal in each of our restaurants. We have 4 legendary Memphis-area locations, 2 franchises in Little Rock, 1 in Brentwood, and 1 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. You can find Corky’s iconic brand in more than 5,000 grocery stores across the US, and we shipped more than 400,000 BBQ orders to all 50 states last year.

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THE LANGSDON CLINIC >>>

THE FACE OF BEAUTIFUL FACE AND BEAUTIFUL BODY

Phillip R. Langsdon, MD, Roberto Lachica, MD, and Carol H. Langsdon, RNP

Celebrating 30 years in practice, Dr. Phillip Langsdon, facial plastic surgeon, has been treating one face at a time, helping people feel good about themselves by reversing the signs of aging and/or improving the structure of the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, or lips. While Dr. Langsdon’s practice is limited to the face, Dr. Roberto Lachica is a plastic surgeon who provides head-totoe cosmetic surgery, but also specializes in breast and body procedures to improve changes brought on by aging, pregnancy and weight loss. For non-surgical aesthetic treatments, Carol Langsdon, RNP, provides expertise in Botox®, dermal fillers, skin resurfacing and customized medical-grade skin care. Dr. Langsdon served as the President of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) in 2019. Dr. Lachica is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. To view before-and-after photos, visit drlangsdon.com .

7499 Poplar Pike, Germantown, TN 38138 | 901.755.6465 | langsdonclinic.com

THE FACE OF BEAUTIFUL SMILES

MEMPHIS CENTER FOR FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY >>>

Miles C. Moore, DDS

Creating beautiful smiles is just another day in the office for Miles C. Moore, dentist at Memphis Center for Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. With a friendly staff, a soothing atmosphere, and the latest technology, Dr. Moore’s practice offers all dental services, but specializes in cosmetic

dentistry. Whether you seek a complete smile makeover, “invisible” braces, or teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile in several ways. Dental veneers from Dr. Moore improve the form and function of your teeth, leaving results that you have to see to believe.

725 W. Brookhaven Circle, Memphis, TN 38117 901.761.2210 | BeautifulSmiles.org

FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

LAKESIDE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SYSTEM >>>

For more than 50 years, Lakeside has had one mission: to provide specialized behavioral healthcare and in a welcoming environment for people in search of healing. Our 37-acre campus near Memphis was designed to make recovery an accessible, effective reality for everyone — from children to seniors who struggle with mental

health challenges, substance use disorders, or co-occurring diagnoses. In addition to providing individualized treatment for our patients, Lakeside is committed to helping our community better understand and recognize the complexities associated with behavioral health and substance use disorders. Physicians are on the medical staff of Lakeside Behavioral Health System, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Lakeside Behavioral Health

2911 Brunswick Rd., Memphis, TN 38133 | 901.377.4700 | LakesideBHS.com

The facility shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and

Front Row, left to right: Lenora Coleman, Cresthaven IOP Clinical Program Director; Rita Dailey, Regulatory Compliance Director; Joy Golden, Chief Executive Officer; Angela Quadrani, Director of Business Development; Teresa Scott, Director of Risk Management; Joe Fradella, Controller; Tamara Reed, Director of Clinical Services

Middle Row, left to right: Heather Voisard, Director of Human Resources; Ed Woody, Chief Operating Officer; Joyce Jeffries, Chief Nursing Officer; Kristie Greer-Ellis, Director of Admissions; Charles Winton, Jr, The Oaks IOP Clinician Program Director

Back Row, left to right: Dr. Daniel Boyd, MD, Medical Director; Johnta Johnson, Chief Financial Officer; Dr. Mahmood Ali, MD, Chief of Medical Services; Jacob Arnett, Director of Information Systems; Kevin Parker, Director of Environment of Care

System.

the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.

THE FACE OF BOYS EDUCATION

PRESBYTERIAN DAY SCHOOL >>>

At PDS, we know how to reach boys, teach them, and channel their energies in positive and productive ways. After 75 years of teaching boys, we know they wiggle and squirm; they delight in getting their hands dirty; they are curious, thrive

when they are active, and learn best through experiential approaches. Here, boys move, inquire, and think out loud. This isn’t just a boys’ school. It’s a school built for boys — and the ways they learn, grow and do. PDS is where boys thrive.

THE FACE OF BRAIN SURGERY

SEMMES MURPHEY CLINIC

For over 100 years, Semmes Murphey Clinic has been Memphis' trusted resource for all aspects of neurological care, including brain surgery. All Memphis area hospitals trust Semmes Murphey for their patients' brain surgery needs. Whether at your local hospital or Semmes Murphey Clinic, this team

of neurosurgeons is dedicated to providing safe and effective treatments concerning brain tumors, trauma, malformations, and more. They also look to future possibilities by training tomorrow's neurosurgeons at UTHSC and conducting research and clinical trials with the Semmes Murphey Foundation.

6325 Humphreys Blvd., Memphis, TN 38120 901.522.7700 | semmes-murphey.com

Front row, left to right: Dr. Jason Weaver, Dr. Andy Boucher, Dr. Jeffrey Sorenson, and Dr. Madison Michael

Back row, left to right: Dr. Kenan Arnautovic, Dr. Chris Nickele, Dr. Adam Arthur, and Dr. Nick Khan

2024 FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF BRANDING

TACTICAL MAGIC

Trace Hallowell has been an influential force in Memphis advertising for more than 30 years. Both strategist and creative leader, he is best known for developing high impact brand identities and marketing campaigns. Having earned top national and international creative awards, his work is also featured in books, magazines, and college textbooks as examples of branding excellence. Trace founded Tactical Magic in 2001. The firm’s diverse clientele includes CGHP, Eventive, IMC, Malasri Engineering, Panther Creek Ranch, PuppyUp Foundation, Sound Credit, Trousseau and Truckmentum.

1460 Madison Ave Memphis, TN 38104 901.722.3001

TacticalMagic.com

THE FACE OF BURGERS

HUEY'S >>>

Huey's is more than just a burger joint; it's a Memphis staple. With a history spanning five decades, this local chain has become synonymous with delicious burgers and has been voted “Best Burger in Memphis” since 1984. The menu features crowdfavorite burgers, hand-made appetizers, specialty sandwiches, and salads, and is also known for its many unique traditions: vintage art and graffiti line the walls, live local bands are featured every Sunday,

and a full bar takes up the center of each location. Huey’s Poplar, one of the restaurant’s most visited locations, recently added a new to-go kitchen to better serve its growing customer base, and this spring, you can look forward to a newly renovated patio there, too. As the company reflects on its place in both the Memphis food scene and the greater community, it looks forward to the continued growth that these new renovations represent.

HueyBurger.com

THE FACE OF CANCER CARE

REGIONAL ONE HEALTH >>>

At Regional One Health, being the face of cancer care for our community means being the face of advanced surgical and medical oncology treatments. It means being the face of expertise that contributes to establishing national guidelines for patient care. It means being the face of state-of-the-art technology and resources.

But most of all, it means being the face of hope for our community.

We are dedicated to our role in elevating cancer care for patients throughout the Mid-

South. As we build an academic oncology practice to serve our region’s needs for generations to come, we will continue our commitment to cutting-edge research, physician education, and compassionate care that help improve outcomes for patients in Memphis and across the nation.

We’re proud of our oncologists for “Specializing in Tomorrows” by improving access to world-class cancer care for our community and, most of all, for being a source of hope and healing for families everywhere.

RegionalOneHealth.org

THE FACE OF CATASTROPHIC INJURY & WRONGFUL DEATH LAW

PEEL LAW FIRM

David B. Peel, Injury Attorney

PUTS THE “PERSONAL” IN PERSONAL INJURY LAW

David Peel is sought after by those who prefer a personal touch rather than the commercialized chain store approach to their family’s claims. “I’m not on TV — because I don’t have to be,” Peel quipped.

His reputation appears well-earned. Peel is rated “AV+ Preeminent” by his peers (highest possible) and is a life member of Multi-Million Dollar Advocates, with multiple multi-million dollar results. He has been voted “Best of the Best Attorney” in local Readers’ Choice Awards for years and named a Mid-South Super Lawyer for well over a decade. He has published two books, including one on law, and has authored over 1,000 articles.

Peel has recently added “amateur historian” to his list of accomplishments. His local historical

videos on Peel Law Firm’s Facebook page have garnered quite a following.

But nothing rivals the popularity of in-house client-therapy dog CrashtheLawDog, the famous Goldendoodle with his own social media following.

Extensive period-correct renovations approach completion on the 110-year-old home that serves as the new office, which has this commanding view of Arlington’s Historic Depot Square.

Professional accomplishments aside, Peel is most proud of his wife of 30 years — Trish, his three adult children, his daughter-in-law, and his precious grandson.

He volunteers his time speaking and presenting, and assisting community groups in preserving local history, as well as supporting Christian Legal Society and serving on the board of Love Worth Finding Ministries.

THE FACE OF CATERING

PARADOX CATERING & CONSULTING >>>

Chef Jimmy Gentry

Jimmy Gentry of Paradox Catering was formally trained at Johnson and Wales College of Culinary Arts. Before starting Paradox with partner Alia Hogan, he led kitchens across the Mid-South to win multiple awards. Almost 16 years ago, Paradox Catering was created with the vision to redefine what people expected not only from the food itself but from the presentation and service as well.

Paradox's team and Chef Gentry work closely with clients to define their personal style, which we then translate into every aspect of an event so we can provide that one-of-a-kind experience they always envisioned. "We have been truly fortunate to be embraced by the Mid-South," says Chef Gentry, "and have in turn seen tremendous success with our creative and innovative approach to catering."

901.619.1196 | Event@ParadoxCuisine.com | ParadoxCuisine.com

FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

HARDING ACADEMY >>>

At Harding Academy, we teach students that everything they learn is connected to God. In art, we talk about how we create because we are made in the image of a Creator God. In engineering, we explore the nature of God by discovering and creating order. In history, we

challenge students to be justice seekers like Ida B. Wells. Once students make those connections, learning becomes meaningful because it’s personal. Schedule a tour to see firsthand how we move students from information to transformation.

HARDING ACADEMY (K–12): 1100 CHERRY RD.

LITTLE HARDING (6 WEEKS–JR. K): 1106 COLONIAL RD. 901.767.4494 | HARDINGLIONS.ORG

THE FACE OF CO-EDUCATION

WOODLAND PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL >>>

Since 1956, Woodland Presbyterian School has strived to teach the whole child: academically, spiritually (Christ centered), creatively, socially, and emotionally. While academics are the primary focus, students are also prepared to be productive members of society.

A co-educational environment prepares Woodland students to work with, solve problems with, and communicate with people that think

differently, process information differently, and interact differently than themselves. Coeducation encourages collaboration among girls and boys where students are exposed to a “realworld environment”.

Embracing academic excellence, spiritual development, social consciousness, community collaboration, and a positive self-concept is Woodland’s mission for each child.

2024 FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

RKA CONSTRUCTION >>>

CONSTRUCTION

901.465.3400 | rka.build

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Formed in 2011, RKA Construction is a general contractor located in Memphis, Tennessee. Created out of a love for building and a desire to provide a better client experience, our focus is simple — provide superior quality, craftsmanship, and customer service in everything we do.

THE FACE OF COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

BOYLE INVESTMENT COMPANY >>> WE LEASE MEMPHIS.

Not many companies place equal emphasis on business and relationships, but at Boyle that is just what our office leasing, property management, and development team does on a daily basis. As a Memphis-based leasing team, we’re flexible to meet tenants’ needs no matter the firm size or space requirements so that you can focus instead on growing your business.

“The courtesy and consideration of our needs truly goes above and beyond what a typical ‘landlord’ would do.” — Southeast Regional Company, VP and Regional Manager 5900 Poplar Avenue, Suite 100, Memphis, TN 38119 | 901.766.4241 | Boyle.com

PEOPLE'S CUSTOM RX >>>

Since 1969, People's Custom Rx — the oldest and largest compounding pharmacy in the Memphis area — has been helping people and their pets feel better. We have two state-of-the-art sterile rooms that allow us to prepare your customized medications in the safest way possible.

Our pharmacists and technicians work hard to increase our knowledge and stay up-to-date with training in the fields of hormone therapy, sterile compounding, pediatric compounding, veterinary compounding, dermatological compounding, and so much more. How can we help you feel better?

785 E. Brookhaven Circle, Memphis, TN 38117 | 901.682.2273 | PeoplesCustomRx.com

FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF CRIMINAL LAW

We are proud of the strength our defense team brings to the table. When people come to us, not only is someone’s freedom being threatened, but their good name as well. No one wants to be a victim of the criminal justice system. Our firm practices only criminal defense law. We protect and guide people when the government is investigating. We

defend people when the government is prosecuting. We work as a team and present a team defense. It’s just stronger that way. If you are in need of protection and a strong defense, call us. We bring the experience, knowledge and skilled advocacy you will need. We also bring the heart for the fight. Our clients expect that from us, and so do we.

3074 East Street, Memphis, TN 38128 | 901.384.4004 | MasseyMcClusky.com

MASSEY MCCLUSKY FUCHS & BALLENGER >>>

Standing, left to right: Seth Segraves, Jason Ballenger, Lauren Massey Fuchs, William Massey, Katie Massey Wening (Paralegal), and Joe McClusky

THE FACE OF DENTAL IMPLANTS

ADVANCED DENTAL IMPLANT AND TMJ CENTER >>>

Pradeep Adatrow, DDS, MSD and Jay Patel, DDS

Board Certified, Periodontal and Implant Surgeons.

Advanced Dental, the awardwinning dental practice, has been chosen as Desoto’s Best Specialty Clinic since 2018 and Memphis’s Best Dental Clinic during the 2023 Memphis Most awards.

Advanced Dental’s founder is the only practicing board-certified periodontist and prosthodontist in the southern United States and has been chosen as the Top Dentist since 2020. Their patients leave the office informed and confident in their treatment options due to their vast expertise in placing more than 15,000 Dental Implants. In addition, Advanced Dental’s friendly, familial environment, coupled with state-of-the-art technology, welcomes patients back to every appointment with a smile at a price they can afford.

7135 Getwell Road, Suite 100 Southaven, MS 38672

662.655.4868

AdvancedDentalTMJ.com

R o berts E bet

The memphis-raised photographer has captured the heart and soul of rock-and-roll for more than four decades.

BY BRUCE VANWYNGARDEN

THE MIND’S EYE

ABOUT THIS SERIES: Memphis has played muse over the years to artists across the spectrum, from the music of Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Al Green, and the collective at Stax Records, to the prose of Peter Taylor, Shelby Foote, and John Grisham. Visual artists, too, have been inspired by Memphis, whose look has been described as gritty, dirty, active, eerie, beautiful, and captivating. “The Mind’s Eye” profiles the photographers whose work documents the city. Past stories in the series — featuring Bob Williams, Murray Riss, Saj Crone, Karen Pulfer Focht, Willy Bearden, Jamie Harmon, Brandon Dill, Ziggy Mack, Ernest Withers, Andrea Morales, Houston Cofield, and Tommy Kha — are showcased in our digital archives (memphismagazine.com).

I’d literally just come into my apartment in New York from being on the road and the phone started ringing. It was Dylan’s manager. He said, ‘I know you want to photograph Bob. He wants a photographer in D.C. today. Can you come?

“Bob Dylan was one of my heroes and I’d always wanted to photograph him, so I said, ‘What time does he go on?’ He said ‘Four o’clock this afternoon. Just jump on a shuttle at LaGuardia and I’ll meet you at the backstage gate.

“It was already one o’clock, so I frantically unpacked and repacked my suitcase and ran out the door. When I got to the show, the manager was at the backstage gate and Bob was already performing, but he took me up on stage and it was just amazing. Afterward, he said to bring the pictures to the hotel, so I did. I was really pleased with them, but when [the manager] looked at them he said, ‘God, Bob is going to really hate these.’

“My heart just sank. My hero is going to hate my pictures. So I said, ‘I thought they were really good. What’s wrong with them?’

Bob Dylan performing at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. , on July 7, 1986.

“He said, ‘Bob hates bright lighting.’

“I said, ‘Why did you have me photograph a daytime show if you wanted dark lighting? ere’s not much I can do.’

“I was kind of upset, but I ended up photographing Dylan the next week in New York area shows and at the end of the last show the manager came running out of the dressing room and said, ‘Ebet, he loves the photographs. He loves every single one of them and he wants to meet you.’

“So he took me into the dressing room, and then I had to wait for 45 minutes while Bob had a conversation with Lou Reed. Finally, we got introduced and his eyes lit up, and he said, ‘ e photos are great!’”

Ireturned to her hometown: Memphis. Roberts grew up in Midtown, where she attended and graduated from Hutchison School (then located on Union Avenue) in 1963. After high school, she went off to attend a small junior college in Washington, D.C., where she took an elective drawing class — and something in her clicked.



“I started doing street photography because I decided I wanted to combine photography with my paintings and drawings.”

t’s a pretty good story, and Ebet Roberts has a lot of good stories. She has also taken a lot of great photographs — documenting rock’s most-celebrated heroes, heartthrobs, icons, and punks for more than 45 years. Not bad for a Memphis kid who wanted to be a painter.

— Ebet Roberts

Roberts’ own story begins in Europe, where her father, an Air Force brigadier general, was stationed in the 1950s. Roberts was only 10 when he died unexpectedly. Her mother, Cornelia Henning Roberts Kimbrough,

“ at was it,” she says. “I knew I wanted to be an artist. Before that, I hadn’t even contemplated that you could go to school for art. It was a revelation. I came back to Memphis and enrolled at the Memphis Academy of Art, which was a wonderful place. So many good instructors and students.”

Four years later, Roberts graduated with a painting degree and had already begun selling her work. “I decided to get a camera because I kept selling paintings and I wanted to document them,” she says.

en she met photographer Murray Riss, who had just been hired by the academy to start a photography department at the school. “I decided I wanted to learn everything I could about photography,” Roberts says, “so I stayed on an extra year to study with Murray.”

After school, an ill-fated relationship led her to Boulder, Colorado, where Roberts eventually made a decision that would shape the rest of her life.

above: Toots and Willy DeVille backstage at Max’s Kansas City in New York City on January 14, 1977. opposite page: Sid Vicious with the Sex Pistols at the Taliesyn Ballroom in Memphis on January 6, 1978. Patti Smith at the Asbury Park Convention Hall in Asbury Park, New Jersey, on August 5, 1978.

“I hated Boulder,” she says. “I didn’t meet anyone who had any awareness of art being anything more than a decoration hanging on a wall. Finally, I’d had enough. I announced I was leaving and going to New York. And I just went. I knew one person there, a friend who’d gone to Barnard and had an apartment near Columbia, and she let me move in. I really liked the neighborhood — Riverside Park was a block away, Central Park two blocks away. I still live in the same area, all these years later.”

Roberts soon landed a job at the Guggenheim Museum, which might sound like a dream gig for a young painter. For her, at least, it was not.

“I was sort of doing whatever they needed,” Roberts says. “Sales desk, filing, reception, switchboard. One day, on the switchboard, I discon-

nected the director from a call, which was not a good thing. I decided I wanted to work less to have more time for my painting, so I quit and started waitressing at night at a jazz club that was in my neighborhood.”

The jazz club was the legendary West End Bar, a Columbia University hangout that was a favorite of Allen Ginsberg, Lucien Carr, Jack Kerouac, and other Beat Generation writers in the 1950s. In the 1960s, it was the unofficial New York headquarters of the Students for a Democratic Society and the Weather Underground, led by student activist Mark Rudd. By the early 1970s, it had become a music venue where many of the world’s greatest jazz and blues musicians, including Dizzy Gillespie, Doc Cheatham, and Big Joe Turner performed. Heady stuff for a young woman from Memphis.

“It was an amazing job,” Roberts says. “I could work two or three nights a week and support myself. I just served drinks; I didn’t have to serve food. I saw amazing jazz musicians at night, and in the daytime, I painted.”

Still using the Minolta 35-millimeter camera she’d bought in Memphis,

Roberts began wandering the streets of New York, taking pictures. “I started doing street photography because I decided I wanted to combine photography with my paintings and drawings,” she says. “My work was large — abstract and figurative — a lot of washes and big brush strokes. I’d done lithography at the art academy and I knew I could combine paintings with photo-lithography.”

In 1975, Roberts applied for and received a scholarship for a two-week summer workshop at Penland School of Craft in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. “I ended up staying for four months,” she says. “They just kept letting me stay, and all I had to do was make art. I was in heaven. I would work all night, and drift back and forth between photography and lithography workshops during the day. It was a pivotal moment.”

When Roberts came back to New York, she found herself gravitating more and more toward photography. Then, a year or so later, a friend asked her for a favor, and the course of her life underwent another tectonic shift.

“I had a friend who wanted me to photograph his friend’s band,” Roberts recalls. “It was really the last thing in life I wanted to do. I had no interest whatsoever, but I got talked into it and went down to this little club where my friend’s band was on a bill with a band called Mink DeVille, which was Willy DeVille and five others. Well, I saw them and I just completely loved them.”

DeVille was a charismatic frontman with a face made

for the camera — prominent Gallic nose, raw cheekbones, dark, shiny pompadour. His wife, Toots, was a tiny woman with a black bouffant, wearing a black minidress. Roberts took some photographs of the duo but wanted more.

“I wanted to follow up on the things I photographed instead of just walking around documenting things, then walking away,” she says. “So I talked to Willy backstage after the show and he said he’d love to be photographed, to just call him. When I called a few days later, he said, “You’ve got to come down to Max’s Kansas City. We’re doing a show and you’ve got to come. And I’m saying, ‘I really want to do it at your house.’”



“So I fi nally took some prints up to Capitol and they loved them and licensed one for, like, $50 or something. Then they started hiring me. They had the Steve Miller Band and Sammy Hagar and some other acts …”

again. “I was still doing stuff with Willy and Toots,” she says, “and they began playing CBGB, and it was this whole new world. I’d never seen anything like it. Raw energy … all these people hanging out. I don’t know how to describe the energy. It was musically all over the place, a crazy time, and none of these bands were signed. I wanted to document the people there and so I did — the bands and the people offstage. I felt this obsession with the club. I kept going back.”

Shortly thereafter, in January 1977, Roberts ended up going to Max’s, which, despite the name, was actually a club in New York City. “I figured that if I did that, I could then maybe get them to do what I wanted,” she says. “At the show, he and Toots were just amazing. en I took some pictures of the band backstage and this lady came running over and said, ‘I work for Capitol Records and we just signed Mink DeVille this week and I have to see these photographs.’ I said I wasn’t a photographer and that the photos were for a personal project, and she said, ‘No, no, they’re great! You’ve got to bring them by.’

— Ebet Roberts

“So I finally took some prints up to Capitol and they loved them and licensed one for, like, $50 or something. en they started hiring me. ey had the Steve Miller Band and Sammy Hagar and some other acts, and they also hired me to photograph some executives.”

en the Mink DeVille connection worked its magic

CBGB was a dump of a venue with a tiny stage, located in the Bowery district of the East Village. Hilly Kristal, the club’s owner, had one rule: Bands had to play original music, no covers. CBGB stood for “Country Blue Grass and Blues,” but the club famously helped spawn the careers of musicians who were not part of any of those genres, mostly punk and post-punk acts, including Patti Smith, e Ramones, Blondie, e Police, Television, and e Talking Heads. Roberts was there for all of it.

Before long, e Village Voice took notice of the scene, and Roberts found herself in the right place at the right time. “ e Voice would want photos of whoever was playing, and the club would say I was there,” Roberts says. “ en the Voice started calling me and asking me to take photographs. It was freelance but my overhead was pretty low and I realized I was beginning to be able to support myself with photography. It was all sort of transitional, because a new manager came in at the West End and fired everybody, so I lost my waitressing job. Even so, I don’t think I started thinking of myself as a photographer for a couple of years.”

below: Keith Richards and Ron Wood of The Rolling Stones at the Plaza Hotel in New York City on January 4, 1983.

top: Talking Heads at CBGB in New York City on March 3, 1977.

above: Andy Warhol at The Factory at 860 Broadway in front of a painting done in collaboration with Jean-Michel Basquiat in New York City on October 24, 1984.

right: The Cars outside the Gramercy Park Hotel in New York City on July 17, 1978.

“I have to get out of my head and feel it. It’s intuitive and reactive. It’s not happening on a conscious level. If I’m thinking about it, it’s not going to happen. But you know when it happens.”

— Ebet Roberts

Four decades later, naming the prominent musicians Roberts hasn’t photographed is almost easier than naming those she has. e list is incredible: Aretha Franklin, e B-52s, Blondie, e Cars, e Cure, David Bowie, Dire Straits, Kurt Cobain, Michael Jackson, Miles Davis, Neil Young, e Police, Prince, e Rolling Stones, e Sex Pistols, Stevie Wonder, Talking Heads, Tom Petty, Whitney Houston, e Who, Willie Nelson, and so many more.

Her work has appeared in copious national and international publications, and her prints are handled by upscale galleries and still sell regularly to fans and collectors.

What sets Roberts’ work apart? It’s her eye for catching an artist’s inner spark, her sense of knowing when the moment is right, and her undiminished commitment to photography as an art. When speaking of her work or telling a story about a musician, Roberts almost always uses the word “photograph,” rather than “shot” or “picture,” or even “photo.”

“ at’s intentional,” she says. “I don’t like the word ‘shoot,’ and ‘picture,’ to me, can mean any visual representation. A photograph stands on its own. I did this workshop in the 1970s with Life magazine photo editor John Loengard,” she says. “He said, basically, ‘I don’t care what you do technically. Don’t let the technique get in the way of the image. Just don’t bring in boring photographs.’ at stayed with me. I always looked for a moment, something decisive.”

So how does she know when the moment is right?

“I have to get out of my head and feel it,” she says. “It’s intuitive and reactive. It’s not happening on a conscious level. If I’m thinking about it, it’s not going to happen. But you know when it happens, and you can’t wait to process it and see if it came out. It’s the same thing with portraits.

If I’m trying to change things, it’s not working.”

Roberts’ intuition has served her well. She has a now-celebrated knack for catching “something decisive.” She got her start in something of a golden age, a pre-internet era when photography and music were linked artistically, when magazines like Rolling Stone, e Village Voice, Trouser Press, Creem, and others published full-page black-and-white photographs on their covers and inside

pages. It was the only way fans could see their favorite musicians up-close.

Photographers such as Roberts became artists in their own right, gaining exclusive access, shooting film with hand-held cameras from a pit down front or from on stage, advancing the roll by hand after each shot, shooting judiciously, knowing that reloading a camera took time away from the performance and could mean missing a special moment. at’s all changed, much to Roberts’ regret.

“In a photo pit these days, you’re in with people using iPhones and point-and-shoot cameras,” Roberts says. “It used to be that you were with only professional photographers. Photography was art, and music was art, and they were inter-connected. You could be creative. Now, the whole business is becoming so corporate. You have 30 seconds to take photographs. It’s just shoot, shoot, shoot. You can’t wait for any kind of magical moment.”

e Covid pandemic also put a halt to much of Roberts’ live concert work for a couple of years. But it brought an odd blessing. “My print sales skyrocketed during Covid,” she says. “And we sold lots of big prints. I don’t know if people were staying home and decorating or feeling nostalgic for live music or what it was. So I got busy with print sales and licensing.”

right: Aretha Franklin at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on May 2, 1993.

far right: Debbie Harry of Blondie at My Father’s Place in Roslyn, Long Island, New York, on June 1, 1978.

Now there’s another project on the horizon: a book called Ebet Roberts: New York Punk . “It’s close to done,” Roberts says. “SUNY Press came to me during Covid and asked me to do it. It’s my early punk photographs of the New York music scene — at CBGB and Max’s Kansas City and other venues. I thought I had it ready to go, but then they told me to put them in the order I wanted and that set me back. You have to think about what works visually on a facing page, that sort of thing. It’s a huge project. We’re hoping to get it published by late 2024.”

It’s impossible not to ask Roberts for anecdotes about the people she’s photographed, but difficult to know where to begin. She’s been backstage, in dressing rooms, on tour buses, in hotel rooms, and at parties with the biggest names in music. Every one of her photos has a story behind it, but spilling gossip isn’t her style. If, however, you ask which musician had the most charisma, she has a quick answer: Michael Jackson.

“In 1979, I was hired to go on the road with the Jacksons for a few days,” she says. “I wasn’t a fan at that time but it was a job that I was kind of excited about. I got to New Orleans and they’d called in the National Guard — something about a white guy promoting a Black act. I don’t remember exactly, but things were sort of tense. I’m in the pit and feeling a little nervous because I’m the

above: Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers at Farm Aid in Champaign, Illinois, on September 22, 1985.

left: Neil Young at the 1985 Farm Aid.

below: Mark Knopfler wth Dire Straits at Madison Square Garden in New York City on October 12, 1985.

“His quiet energy almost knocked me over. You could just feel him. It was the most amazing energy I’ve ever felt in my entire life.”

— Ebet Roberts

right: Stevie Wonder at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Michigan, on July 24, 1986. bottom: Michael Jackson with The Jacksons at the Municipal Auditorium in New Orleans, Louisiana, on October 3, 1979.

only white person in the building. But everything went well and after the show, the manager wanted me to meet Michael. His quiet energy almost knocked me over. You could just feel him. It was the most amazing energy I’ve ever felt in my entire life.”

Roberts also cites Bob Marley as unforgettable. “I had seen the film, The Harder They Come, and I became obsessed with Jamaica and reggae,” she says, “and I just had to photograph Bob Marley. We went down to Jamaica for the One Love for Peace concert in 1978 and I got to photograph him. I kept going back every year. Then Bob was coming to New York and his manager said I could photograph him on the roof of his hotel. I get there and suddenly there’s no time to go to the roof. It was a good thing I’d brought lighting, just in case. His death was the saddest thing to me.”

Another of Roberts’ passions has lasted decades: the annual Farm Aid Festival, organized by Willie Nelson, Neil Young, and John Mellencamp to build awareness about, and to raise funds to prevent, the loss of family farms. The first Farm Aid concert was in Champaign,

Illinois, in 1985. It drew 80,000 people and featured performances by Bob Dylan, Billy Joel, Bonnie Raitt, B.B. King, Loretta Lynn, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, and many others. Roberts was there with her camera.

“I remember it rained all morning,” she says. “All the photographers were huddled backstage, unable to do much. Then it cleared up and Dylan and Tom Petty came on with the Heartbreakers, and it was just magic.

“I went back every year for 35 years, but that first concert stays with me. The shows went on so long into the night that I never got to sleep, and I had to catch an early flight. I remember that I was covered with mud, a total mess, when I got on the plane.”

see MIND’S EYE continued on page 137 ☞

Memphis on January 8, 1978.

center: Alex Chilton in New York City on September 1, 1987.

top left: Prince at Roseland in New York City on October 2, 1988.

Bottom left: Al Green at his Full Gospel Tabernacle Church in

SEXY, SPACIOUS, SUBLIME

Owner and realtor Michelle Koeppen describes what it took to

restore this mid-century modern jewel, recently included in the 2023 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Memphis’ annual home tour.

BY JANE SCHNEIDER ■ PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOHN PICKLE

M ichelle Koeppen has seen her share of fixer-uppers. As an interior designer, she’s worked in the Memphis housing market for more than three decades, using her eye for color and design to remodel kitchens, produce dazzling faux finishes, and refurbish old homes. She sells property for Ware Jones Realtors and has renovated approximately a dozen houses, focusing on Midtown’s bungalows, Victorians, and the occasional Tudor. Over time, Koeppen has built up a Rolodex of tradespeople to help bring properties back from the depths of despair. But she’s rarely had the opportunity to renovate a masterpiece.

In 2020, when Koeppen learned this mid-century modern home on Park was coming to market, she invited her mother, an enthusiast of the period’s style, to join her. Michelle had shown it to several clients and while all were awed by its chic, split-level design, “They were overwhelmed at the thought of taking on the whole project,” she says.

The whole project was indeed complicated. The acre lot had grown jungle-like. The elegant pool had developed a sandy bottom. And the five-bedroom house? Well, let’s just say it was ready for some TLC. Okay, a lot of TLC.

Yet when the two stepped into the spacious living room, 81-yearold Rita Koeppen gasped. “Ohhh, if I were 10 years younger,” she

mused, “I’d live here!” They walked through light-filled rooms, admiring the vaulted wood ceilings and the beautiful use of brick and glass. Both appreciated the way the design invited the outdoors in, creating a feeling of tranquility and ease.

An impressive pedigree

What’s more, the house had stories to tell. Built in 1960 for Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Kahn, it was designed by Alfred Lewis Aydelott, considered the father of modern architecture in Memphis. You’ve likely encountered some of his public work: Memphis City Hall, the Odell Horton (formerly Clifford Davis) Federal Building, Immaculate Conception High School, and Maurelian Hall (among others) on the Christian Brothers University campus. Aydelott even retooled the city’s seal in 1962.

He also built a handful of residences. Aydelott was an ardent modernist who, influenced by Le Corbusier, broke from tradition with designs that emphasized sleek, clean lines and limited ornamentation.

Here he employed an exposed post-and-beam design, which was groundbreaking in its day, replacing bulky support walls with ones seemingly made of glass, notes the AIA’s A Survey of Modern Houses in Memphis. The floor-to-ceiling glass walls, which line either side of the living and dining rooms, flood the house with light while offering views of the portico and courtyard at the front of the house and the swimming pool at the back. The result is sophisticated and stately, with a layout that flows graciously from room to room.

But it’s fair to say the house had seen better days. When Koeppen first toured it, she realized unchecked roof leaks had left significant water damage throughout the west wing, bowing wood floors and wholly compromising

above: The decor, a harmonious blend of contemporary and retro furnishings, suits the design. Abstract paintings in the living room and master bedroom are by Memphian John Ryan. right: Renovator and realtor Michelle Koeppen.

HABITATS

above: Danish designer Arne Jacobsen created the egg chair for Hotel Radisson SAS in Copenhagen in 1958, and it quickly became a must-have item.

above right: The exposed post-and-beam design.

right: The dining room features art from the estate of Francis Mah, one of Aydelott’s protégés.

below: The floating wet bar was original to the den. Wood, brick, and concrete were materials of choice in mid-century modern design.

“I thought the only way I would do this project was if I lived in the house for a while so I could enjoy the work,” Koeppen says with a laugh.

Ultimately, the two pooled their resources and in August 2020, Koeppen became its fifth owner.

Where to begin?

the downstairs den. The home’s electrical system was outdated, and the backyard had reverted to a more natural state — ironic, since the Kahns worked with Memphis Botanic Garden (where they were generous donors) to allow a garden gate to connect their backyard to the park.

The home’s interior did retain many original features, including the wood ceiling, a tongueand-groove-paneled wall in the dining room, several floating cabinets in the bathrooms and den, bronze window hardware, and concrete and brick flooring.

Clearly, the buyer would need to look past what was to envision what could be. After touring the house together, Koeppen’s mother called later that afternoon, encouraging her daughter and offering to help out with the purchase.

With so many jobs to tackle, she spent the first 12 weeks assessing the greatest needs. Most critical was repairing the roof. Koeppen took a rotted ceiling plank to furniture maker Will McGowan, the wood shop manager at Crosstown Arts, who identified it as cedar. She then brought in friend and architect Christina Ross to produce a technical drawing of the entire house, measuring each room to determine the amount of lumber required.

Each window and beam over the ceiling ran seven or 14 feet “and I didn’t want any short piece of lumber because the strength of the roof depended on it.” She wound up ordering 4,000 board feet of lumber — this, in the midst of Covid, with supply-chain challenges and high lumber prices.

Since the low-pitched roof was tarred and covered with gravel, sections of it had to be peeled back like a soup can and carted away. Tree limbs also had to be removed so the workers could more readily gain access to the structure. The roof also had little insulation left, “so I’ve been able to add several layers,” says Koeppen.

With those repairs underway, she moved on to the upstairs

bedrooms. “All three were gutted and rebuilt,” she says, including the upstairs bath, a light, airy room that now boasts a contemporary yet retro look. Next came the downstairs den, with its brick fireplace and private patio, a lovely retreat. The south wall featured a full bar that Koeppen was unable to save, but throughout the project, she salvaged and recycled what materials she could.

A case in point is the kitchen, which was remodeled in the 1990s. Koeppen deftly removed cabinetry that had long walled off the breakfast nook, replacing it with a continuation of the countertop that better marries the two rooms. She harvested the cabinet’s panels and hardware, using both to replace other pieces that had become worn. She also added several more windows, taking the kitchen from dowdy to delightful.

To refurbish the replacement wood in the ceiling, Koeppen hired artist Allison Furr-Lawyer, who spent a week on scaffolding, staining sections with colors she customized to match the existing rosy pecan hue.

Fourteen months later, in late September 2021, Koeppen finally moved in.

“I remember because the huge Mempho music festival took place on October 1st at the Botanic Garden,” she says. The beat of the music wafted enticingly over her patio and pool.

“What I love about the house

is the access to outdoors. The entire back is glass with five doors, so I can instantly step outside,” she says. “To think that I’m in the middle of the city and yet here, I’m in the midst of a forest. It sits so far back that you don’t feel like you’re living on a busy street.”

Once moved in, she could more readily supervise the final stages of the project. The downstairs master bedroom, done by architect John Millard in the mid-’90s, enlarged the bedroom, adding a spacious, spa-style bathroom and a custom closet. Koeppen didn’t care for the bathroom’s opulent jade-green tile though she did elect to keep the glass brick walls that enclose both the shower and toilet and the floating vanity. Now, with black matte slate floors and white marble countertops, the room sports a quieter sophistication.

above: From the pool, the geometric lines of the house are revealed. left: The elevated portico and courtyard are common design elements in midcentury modern homes. below: The den features an inviting patio. The mod shag carpet was also purchased in the 1960s.

HABITATS

MODERNIST ALFRED “AL” AYDELOTT

Born in Brasfield, Arkansas, Alfred Lewis Aydelott (1916-2008) began working in Memphis in 1938 after graduating with a degree in architecture from the University of Illinois. He served in World War II, became a partner at Dent and Aydelott, then opened his own practice in 1947, building a modern office at 2080 Peabody.

Aydelott’s rising national prominence in design during the 1950s led to numerous awards and work as a visiting critic at Yale University. There he encountered talented young designers he recruited to Memphis — Francis Mah, Marty Gorman, Francis Gassner, Thomas Nathan, Robert Browne — all of whom would carry the mantle of modernism forward in Memphis.

Aydelott designed public buildings, schools, and even the U.S. Embassy in Manila. Architect Arthur Nave remembers working in Aydelott’s office in the late 1950s while still attending high school.

“He was an intense person; he wanted things done his way. He was breaking new ground, and it took time for people to get used to that,” says Nave.

“You’ve got to think about the time,” architect Randy Haizlip told The Daily News in 2008 for Aydelott’s obituary. “Back in the 1950s and ’60s in post-war America, when there was that surge of industrial pride, there was an ebullience that permeated all of America. The modernist art in architecture movement was a social movement. It was about

believing that industrial mechanisms and utilitarian approaches to art and design in architecture could change the world.

“These were the postwar guys who really felt like they were on to something. And to be devoted to that meant to fly in the face of the mainstream,” he says. “Al brought that to Memphis.”

In 1964, Aydelott received the AIA’s highest honor, being named Fellow of Distinguished Design. But he abruptly closed his practice in 1973 after receiving a diagnosis of lung cancer. He was 57. He and his wife, Hope Galloway Aydelott, moved to Orcas Island in Washington. The couple later lived in Carmel, California, where he died in 2008 at age 92. Hope passed away in 2010. Aydelott is survived by two sons and is buried at Elmwood Cemetery.

editor’s note: A collection of Aydelott’s paintings and photographs, done in retirement, have been exhibited at Christian Brothers University, which holds a small collection of his work.

Embracing a modern vibe Koeppen’s home is an eclectic mix of contemporary furnishings and fine art with pops of colors that harken back to the 1960s. Sprinkled in are several pieces she grew up with, reflecting her mother’s modern esthetic: An original Norman Cherner dinette set; a groovy, tangerine egg chair that invites lounging; and the arc floor lamp, an ultra-modern mid-century icon, which shines forth in the master bedroom.

All were purchased during Michelle’s childhood in Wilton, Connecticut, when the family lived just down the road from jazz legend Dave Brubeck. Her father, Douglas Koeppen, was a pilot for American Airlines and her mother, Rita, a stewardess for the same airline. After relocating to Memphis, Michelle attended Briarcrest Christian School and the University of Memphis, graduating in 1991 with a bachelor’s degree in interior design. She went to work in design and faux finishing, gradually providing her services to contractors.

“But when the market crashed in 2008, I realized I couldn’t do that any longer, but I could certainly do renovations as [successfully] as the people I was working for [could],” so she refocused her skills to develop the realty business she continues today.

The last piece of this puzzle was improving the backyard, where a number of drains had filled. “I had my plumber camera the entire yard,” she says, eventually clearing the problem areas so the lot could drain properly. During that process she also discovered a fabulous sprinkler system “which waters absolutely every part of both yards.” While she was a bit apprehensive about tackling the repairs, she’s been delighted with the results.

Though the spacious home is perhaps a bit more than she needs — the 57-year-old shares it with Rue, her adorable one-yearold sheepdog — she considers herself a grateful steward.

“The house hasn’t really been seen in the last 20 years,” she says. “I wanted to rejuvenate, share it, and enjoy it.”

Today, Koeppen is doing just that.

above: Two additions by architect John Millard in the mid-1990s were the beautiful, spa-style master bath and a custom entertainment closet, complete with specialized drawers for storing silver, cocktail napkins, and table linens.

AYDELOTT PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CHRISTIAN BROTHERS UNIVERSITY

THE FACE OF DERMATOLOGY

MEMPHIS DERMATOLOGY CLINIC, P.A. >>>

Memphis Dermatology Clinic has served the Mid-South since 1972. We provide complete dermatologic care ranging from diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, to Mohs Micrographic surgery to cosmetic procedures. MDC offers two convenient locations for our patients. In addition to our Midtown location on Union Avenue, we have a location in East Memphis at 795 Ridge Lake Blvd.

Healthy skin improves your overall health and mindset. Over the last 50-plus years, our legacy and our goal has been to provide exceptional care to all patients. For state-ofthe-art skin care, cosmetic and skin cancer treatments, please call 901.726.6655 for an appointment or visit MemphisDermatology.com for more information.

MIDTOWN: 1451 & 1455 Union Ave., Memphis, TN 38104

EAST MEMPHIS: 795 Ridge Lake Blvd., Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38120 901.726.6655 | MemphisDermatology.com

THE FACE OF DISCIPLESHIP EDUCATION

EVANGELICAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL >>>

ECS is committed to partnering with parents to build students for life. Our academic approach fosters critical thinking, group collaboration, and experiential learning, engaging students to become owners in their learning so they are well prepared for college. We

also understand that education is more than just college preparation; it is about being well equipped for life. That is why all ECS students are known, loved and discipled to become Christ-following influential leaders in their homes, churches, careers and communities.

LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS (Age 2-3rd grade): 1920 Forest Hill-Irene Rd., Germantown, TN 38139

SHELBY FARMS CAMPUS (4th-12th grades): 7600 Macon Rd., Cordova, TN 38018

901.754.7217 | ecseagles.com

THE FACE OF DIVORCE LAW

THE RICES >>>

Your family’s needs are our family’s business. Larry and Nick Rice lead Rice Law. Both are certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy as Family Law Trial Advocates. Certification is earned by actual trial experience, judicial recommendation, the endorsement of other lawyers, and a rigorous examination. The Rices are among fewer than 200 attorneys in the United States who earned this qualification. As authors of The Complete Guide to Divorce Practice, published by the American Bar Association, the Rices are the authority on divorce that other lawyers turn to. When divorce or a family law crisis happens, the Rices put experience and expertise in your corner. For information about divorce, visit AboutDivorce.com. To talk to a lawyer about divorce, call 901.526.6701.

THE FACE OF DOGGY HOTEL, DAYCARE & SPA

BROWNDOG LODGE >>>

Since 2007, BrownDog Lodge has been the premier destination for the pampered pup, offering luxury boarding, grooming, daycare, and veterinary services. We offer all kinds of packages that range from boarding to daycare and wellness plans, so there is sure to be a package that fits your pup's needs. Each facility is staffed with highly trained employees whose credentials range from behavioral, daycare play, CPR, and more. We love your pets as if they were our own. The two pet centers are conveniently located in East Memphis and Germantown, and we also have a veterinary office in Arlington. BrownDog Veterinary is a full-service hospital with the BrownDog name and service you know and trust. BrownDog Vet has some of the most knowledgeable, experienced doctors we know you will grow to love. Which include Dr. Robinson, Dr. Beck, and Dr. Nanof. Visit the vet team at our Arlington location or let our shuttle service provide a true doorto-door experience for luxury care and comprehensive wellness! Our friendly team of pet-care professionals is waiting to offer your furry family member the very best! “WE ARE HERE TO PET ALL OF THE DOGS.”

EAST MEMPHIS: 4953 Black Rd. (near Poplar and Mendenhall) | 901.767.1187

GERMANTOWN: 426 S. Germantown Pkwy. (next to Lowe’s) | 901.266.9100

ARLINGTON: 9765 US-64 l (near N. Houston Levee Rd. & Canada Rd.) 901.382.0330

THE FACE OF ELDER LAW

THE BAILEY LAW FIRM >>>

Olen M. "Mac" Bailey, Jr.

We are all getting older. Father Time marches past birthdays, reunions, anniversaries and holidays, setting or re-setting the clock each time. As we age, our concerns and needs change. As an Elder Law Attorney, Mac assists clients with legal issues affecting older Americans in such areas as estate planning, wills, trusts, powers of attorney, long-term care planning, Medicaid eligibility, Veterans Benefits and probate.

A member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys since 1996, Mac has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a Five Star Professional, and one of the Mid-South’s "Top 40 Under 40." Proving that education is not reserved only for the young, Mac earned his Master of Laws in Elder Law in 2015. Learn more about Mac and Elder Law at TheBaileyLawFirm.com .

FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF EMPLOYMENT LAW

THE CRONE LAW FIRM >>>

Attorney Alan Crone, Founder

The Crone Law Firm provides tireless, compassionate, and effective counsel for clients facing employment law disputes — any legal situation that impacts our clients' ability to make money, including:

• Workplace Harassment and Discrimination

• Executive and Employment Contracts

• Buy/Sell, Buyout, Nondisclosure and NonCompete Agreements

• Compensation Disputes

• Commercial and Business Disputes

• Business Partner and Shareholder Disputes

• Accident and Injury Cases

“We focus on creating solutions that work, so that our clients can work. We aim to restore control and predictability in the lives of employees, executives and entrepreneurs while providing proactive counsel to help avoid costly lawsuits and disputes.”

— Alan G. Crone, Firm Founder

88 Union Avenue, 14th Floor, Memphis, TN 38103 | 901.737.7740 | CroneLawFirmPLC.com

THE FACE OF FINE JEWELRY

BOB RICHARDS JEWELERS >>>

Bob, Polly, and Anthony Richards, owners

Turning special moments into special memories.

The vision of Rob Richards began in 1927 and has now evolved into a thirdgeneration business providing a large selection of fine jewelry and watches. Our 3 in-house watchmakers and 2 jewelers are here to repair and service your most precious items.

Our 4 graduate gemologists can help with almost any of your appraisal needs.

Our sales staff is constantly training on the products we sell, staying educated in this ever-changing market and giving great customer service.

We pride ourselves in servicing and selling fine watch brands such as Rolex, Omega, Tag Heuer, and Seiko. Our fine jewelry designers include JB Star, Simon G, Spark Creations, Vahan, Fope, House of Baguettes, Hulchi Belluni, Gabriel, and even more.

1696 S. Germantown Road, Germantown TN 38138 | 901.751.8052

2024 FACES OF THE

MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF FURS

HOLLOWAY FURS >>>

Jim Holloway

Owner and Master Furrier

Holloway Furs, located at 404 Perkins Ext'd., was established in 1992 by Jim Holloway, master furrier, after eight years of apprenticeship with four different master furriers. Outside of sales, we specialize in custom-made garments, fur coat enlargements, reductions, and remodeling; all types of repairs, monograms, and appraisals; and cold storage and cleaning/glazing. We have a newly remodeled cold storage and cleaning facility located in East Memphis. Holloway Furs has a large inventory with the best prices in the Memphis area. We accept trade-ins and offer a 12-month layaway program. All work is done in-house by Jim Holloway and his staff. Jim also specializes in the manufacturing of beaver and mink blankets/throws.

Open Tues - Fri 10 til 5:30 pm and Saturday 10 am to 4 pm (closed Sunday & Monday). Come meet Jim and the friendly staff at Holloway Furs. We appreciate your business. Come see us at Holloway Furs!

404 Perkins Extended Memphis, TN 38117 901.685.3877

Located just seven minutes from downtown Memphis, Southland Casino Hotel is the Mid-South’s premier gaming destination, attracting guests with an extensive array of ways to play, stay, and dine 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Featuring more than 2,300 slot machines, 50 live table games, live sports betting, eight restaurants and bars, and weekly live entertainment, Southland draws guests from both near and far. The stunning 20-story high-rise, 300-room hotel caters exclusively to adults and offers round-theclock dining.

The casino resort experience is enhanced by the team members who are the key to making

Southland stand out, wowing guests with top-notch service and unparalleled hospitality. Southland also stands out with its commitment to the community. Southland has long been a pivotal fixture in the community — providing jobs, business stability and economic contributions. It has consistently won awards for outstanding customer service and has donated millions of dollars to neighborhood charities and educational institutions.

Delaware North, a global leader in the hospitality and entertainment industry, owns and operates Southland as one of its dozen

in the United States and Australia. 1550

gaming operations

THE FACE OF GAMING

SOUTHLAND CASINO HOTEL >>>

Left to right: Keairraca Evans, Tripp Tipton, Terry Hardaway, Pearl Greer, Jeremy Callahan, Fu Chuen Ding, Anthony Morgan, Kelly Sullins, and Liz Luna

FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF HVAC

CHOATE'S

Choate's Air Conditioning, Heating, & Plumbing, located in Collierville, is a top choice for your commercial or residential heating, plumbing, and airconditioning services. The company was founded by Joe Choate in 1958 with an emphasis on providing an exceptional customer-service experience. For more than 65 years, Choate's focus on quality work and attention to detail has established its reputation as a leader in

the community. Today, the Choate family, including Chris, Brian, and Sol, along with their exceptional team, maintain the same level of excellence and actively drive growth and success. Choate's is a full-service company providing comprehensive HVAC and plumbing solutions for residential and commercial customers. As a community-minded, family-owned-and-operated business, Choate's is proud to serve the Mid-South.

LOCATIONS:HEADQUARTERS — 236 S. Mt. Pleasant Rd., Collierville, TN 38017

CHOATE’S MEMPHIS SHOWROOM — 2526 Sam Cooper Blvd., Memphis, TN 38112 901.347.8081 | choateshvac.com

THE FACE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

GANT SYSTEMS >>>

Nick Gant,

President & Founder

Say goodbye to the traditional break-fix IT model with Gant Systems, your proactive MSP. Since 2007, we deliver productivity, security, and confidence, tailored to your business's unique needs. When you partner with Gant Systems, you don't have to worry about unexpected IT bills or costly downtime — our proactive approach empowers business owners to focus on growth without IT interruptions.

MEMPHIS: 901.881.5087

|

NASHVILLE: 615.647.9145

GantSystems.com

|

ATLANTA: 404.912.4101

Clay and Land brings a diverse and dedicated group of individuals who work together to bring expertise and unsurpassed customer service to the marketplace. Located in East Memphis (Ridgeway Center), licensed in 48 states.

866 Ridgeway Loop Rd., Memphis, TN 38120 | 901.767.3600 | clayandland.com

THE FACE OF INSURANCE & SURETY CLAY & LAND INSURANCE, INC. >>>

Left to right: Todd Dyson, Jean Wilkins, and Patrick Taylor Clay and Land is one of Memphis's largest locally-owned insurance agencies. The agency represents over 200 insurance carriers, specializing in commercial, personal, surety bonds, and employee benefits. With more than 80 employees,

THE FACE OF INTERIOR DESIGN

TARA FELICE INTERIORS >>>

At Tara Felice Interiors, our goal is to create spaces that exude sophistication and comfort. We believe that a well-designed home is one that looks beautiful and feels comfortable and inviting. Our team takes pride in creating spaces that reflect our client's personal style while also focusing on functionality. Whether engaged to redecorate and renovate or to collaborate on building a dream home, TFI delivers comfort for everyday living that will stand the test of time.

901.481.5730

TaraFeliceInteriors.com

THE FACE OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

BLAIR PARKER DESIGN

Blair Parker Design, LLC. (BPD) is a Memphis-based Landscape Architecture firm that combines more than 60 years of knowledge and experience with new and creative ideas. They specialize in creating places for people and building relationships with clients and their peers.

BPD is a respected firm with a wide range of skills and expertise in design, planning, stakeholder involvement, construction documentation and the public approval process. BPD has been involved in multiple projects in the community’s recent revitalization efforts, including

the Conwood Snuff District, Tennessee Brewery, Memphis Union Mission, Overton Park Golf Course, as well as new construction, including MSEC, Legacy Park, MJCC Pickleball Courts, Le Bonheur Rehab Garden and Ashby PD, to name just a few.

“The Mid-South is our home, and we take pride in finding creative solutions to complex design constraints that are aesthetically pleasing, efficient and functional. We strive to create innovative, buildable spaces and places where people live, work and play.”

5100 Wheelis Drive, Suite 100, Memphis, TN 38117 | 901.767.6555 | blairparkerdesign.com

2024 FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF LIGHTING

MID SOUTH NIGHT LIGHTS, LLC >>> Jesse Wisley started installing and servicing architectural and landscape lighting in 2008. In 2011, he created his own business, Mid South Night Lights.

Over the past thirteen years, changes in low voltage lighting have evolved due to LED technology. There are many different designs, and installation techniques are endless. What Jesse and his crew of installers are able to illuminate today, versus ten years ago, is literally and figuratively the difference between night and day. The design and implementation of any lighting project is extremely rewarding, with a soft illumination that not only pleases the eye, but simultaneously produces a wow factor.

Jesse is a “Certified Outdoor Lighting Designer” from the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals. The only one within six hours of Memphis.

Jesse has become a leader in the area's architectural and landscape lighting market. He makes time to attend national conferences, where he is introduced to advancements in lighting, as well as other products.

Mid South Night Lights is the Greater Memphis Area’s premier architectural and landscape lighting firm.

1245 Midas Cove

Cordova TN 38018 901.371.6031

Mid-SouthNightLights.com

THE FACE OF LITIGATION

GLANKLER BROWN PLLC >>>

Josh Kahane

Josh Kahane of Glankler Brown PLLC is a leading trial lawyer who has successfully litigated public and private companies’ highest stakes and most consequential matters. As a lawyer, Josh’s commitment and skill have garnered him too many accolades to list — among them, Best of the Bar, Best Lawyer in America, Super Lawyer, Top 100 Trial Lawyer, Top 100 High Stakes Litigator and Tennessee Attorney for Justice Awardee. He has been featured in Forbes, Fortune, Money, and Bloomberg Business Week, was recently the cover and featured attorney in the Top 100 Attorneys in America, and named one of Inside Memphis Business “Power Players.” In 2021, Josh succeeded in striking down unlawful government action in the landmark case of Tiger Lily, LLC vs. United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. As an advocate for both plaintiffs and

defendants in the courtroom, boardroom, and before government agencies, Josh couples a unique brand of creative thinking with a command of the facts and law that allows him to drive exceptional results. He is a key asset for his clients — someone to whom they regularly turn for guidance and strategic thinking beyond the scope of a legal dispute.

While Josh focuses a great deal of his energy representing Memphis companies and others who have invested in the Memphis market (and serving in the executive leadership of numerous philanthropic organizations around town), his record of victory in litigating cases in 15 states — involving more than two billion dollars — has garnered Josh the reputation as a go-to litigator for businessrelated litigation in Memphis and across the country.

6000 Poplar Avenue, Suite 400, Memphis, TN 38119 901.576.1701

| JKahane@Glankler.com | Glankler.com

THE FACE OF LIVE MUSIC

B.B. KING'S BLUES CLUB >>>

B.B. King’s Blues Club is a supper clubstyle restaurant that opened during the Beale Street Blues Festival in May 1991. It was the redevelopment of Beale Street in the early Nineties that brought together the late B.B. King and Tommy Peters to create an iconic destination.

It became the anchor that led to a new wave of development on Beale Street as an entertainment attraction. The restaurant and club concept offers guests the sweet sound of classic soul, blues, and rock-and-roll, top-notch barbeque and much more.

143 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103 | 901.524.5464 | bbkings.com/memphis

2024 FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF LOVE

AGAPE CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES >>>

Agape means love. Everyone deserves love, hope, and encouragement. Our faithbased ministry is a movement that works to lift children and families in need through unconditional love, which is the very meaning of our agency's name, Agape. We provide support to children and families where they live. We currently serve close to 8,000 children and families each year in an effort to keep them safe, smart, and successful through schoolbased initiatives and placebased services in underresourced communities; counseling; homeless services; and adoption and foster care while providing opportunities for them to reconnect with and grow in their faith.

3160 Directors Row

Memphis, TN 38131

901.323.3600

agapemeanslove.org

THE FACE OF MEDICAL AESTHETICS

GLO MEDICAL AESTHETICS >>>

Lisa Street, Nurse Practitioner and owner of Glo Medical Aesthetics in Midtown Memphis, has been in nursing for 27 years. Her strong clinical background — including ER, ICU, and nursing education — has paved the way to a successful 17-year practice in Medical Aesthetics. As a current national clinical educator for Revance Aesthetics and Revanesse by Prollenium and a former educator for Merz and Allergan Aesthetics, Lisa is passionate about continuing education and keeping up with the latest innovations. Her priority when seeing aesthetic patients is always to ensure patient safety and satisfaction. Her philosophy on beauty is “the glow that makes people beautiful starts from within . . . if you love others, are kind to yourself, and strive to be the best person you can be, then that beauty will show on the outside." Glo offers ONLY the gold standards in medical-grade skin care, injectables, lasers and body treatments. Known for their warm, welcoming vibe, the professionals at Glo strive to make each patient feel “uniquely beautiful."

703 New York St., Memphis, TN 38104 901.552.3461 | @RockStarInjector | GloMedMemphis.com

THE FACE OF MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY

SEMMES MURPHEY CLINIC >>>

Semmes Murphey Clinic's neurosurgeons are Memphis' most trusted resource for safe and effective Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS). SMC pioneered MISS, and our clinicians invented several tools and techniques to make this surgery possible. Our team commits to high-quality

care by submitting to rigorous nationwide quality outcomes studies, and the results speak for themselves. Compared to the national average, patients who trust SMC with their spine surgery scored a significantly higher degree of neck and back pain relief and increased quality of life.

6325 Humphreys Blvd., Memphis, TN 38120 901.522.7700 | semmes-murphey.com

Front row, left to right: Dr. Raul Cardenas, Dr. Michael LaBagnara, Dr. Kevin Foley, Dr. Michael Muhlbauer, and Dr. Chris Nickele

Back row, left to right: Dr. Kyle Smith, Dr. Todd Fountain, Dr. Jeffrey Sorenson, Dr. Jason Weaver, and Dr. Paul Park

2024 FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF THE MULTI-SPECIALTY GROUP

CONSOLIDATED MEDICAL PRACTICES OF MEMPHIS, PLLC >>>

Doctors include: Michelle Allmon, Jeremy Avila, Reuben Avila, John Buttross, Tommy Campbell, Laura Engbretson, Arthur Franklin, Maher Ghawji, Malini Gupta, Ara Hanissian, Gina Hanissian, Greg Hanissian, Raza Hashmi, Mary Margaret Hurley, David Iansmith, Margarita Lamothe, Kashif Latif, Shannon Riedley-Malone, Edward Muir, Lisa Myers, Imad Omer, Mohammad Qureshi, George Van Rushing, Bashar Shala, Henry Stamps, Allison Stiles, George Stoev, Ralph Taylor, Michael Threlkeld, Stephen Threlkeld, Randy Villanueva, Angela Watson, and Albert Weeks

CMPM, a “group practice without walls,” was established in 2008 to provide compassionate, convenient, and efficient care for those in the Mid-South. Since its formation CMPM has grown to 38 physicians in multiple specialties located across the area, from Midtown to Collierville. The physicians enjoy practice autonomy while benefiting from the economies of scale and scope provided by a larger group. With its network of nationally recognized physicians, nurse practitioners and health care providers, CMPM strives to provide compassionate, outstanding and personalized care to those living in Shelby County and the surrounding areas. Photo taken at MoSH, Museum of Science & History.

1555 Lynnfield Road, Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38119 | 901.261.0700 | MedicalOfMemphis.com

THE FACE OF NEPHROLOGY

MINESH PATHAK, MD

Kidney disease is an often unrecognized, silent disease caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure and diabetes. The diagnosis and treatment of kidney-related diseases requires an in-depth evaluation of various risk factors. Obesity, vascular abnormalities, autoimmune diseases, and kidney stones have been linked to renal failure. Dr. Pathak is a board-certified Nephrologist and member of The American Society of Nephrology and The National Kidney Foundation. He provides compassionate care with the highest-quality treatment of kidney disease. His goal is to provide early, preventive education along with diagnosis and relevant treatments of specific conditions to lessen the risk of progression to kidney failure and to improve a patient’s quality of life. Dr. Pathak takes great interest in understanding the needs of his patients and providing them with quality care with the least invasive treatment.

6401 Poplar Avenue, Suite 520 Memphis, TN 38119

901.382.5256

THE FACE

MIDSOUTH

Our physicians also perform minimally invasive procedures including laparoscopy, hysteroscopy and robotic surgery. We deliver our obstetrical patients at Baptist Women’s Hospital and Methodist Germantown

The physicians of MidSouth OB/GYN have received award recognition from Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women for their leadership roles. They have also been recognized for excellence in clinical teaching from the University of Tennessee and are certified by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

At MidSouth we do not believe in a one size fits all approach to women’s health; we treat each patient with personalized plans, courtesy and compassion. We look forward to helping you maximize your health.

6215 Humphreys Blvd., Suite 100, Memphis, TN 38120 | 901.747.1200 | MidSouthOBGYN.com

OF OB-GYN

OB-GYN >>>

Front row: Faith Price MD, Candace D. Hinote MD, Judi L. Carney MD, Robin M. Taylor MD, and Dominique Butawan-Ali MD

Back row: Paul D. Neblett MD, Mary Katherine Johnson MD, and Thomas D. Greenwell MD

MidSouth OB/GYN provides comprehensive gynecological and obstetrical care for women of all ages. Some of our services include yearly wellness exams, fertility management, weight loss solutions, contraceptive counseling, management of uterine fibroids, office procedures and a myriad of options for managing the symptoms of menopause.

Hospital. All expectant mothers receive a

complimentary 3D/4D ultrasound.

THE FACE OF ORIENTAL RUGS

TAGHAVI ORIENTAL RUGS >>>

At Taghavi's Oriental Rugs, we take great pride in our 60+ years in business and the type of services we offer, including sales, hand cleaning, reweaving, color-run restoration, moth-damage repair, stain and odor removal, disinfecting all viruses, and much more! With every customer, we are guided by our core values: integrity, experience, excellence, and professionalism. We have not only the largest stock in new and antique rugs, but also the best cleaning and restoration method in the country. We have built our reputation for more than 60 years, not on false promises, but integrity and excellence.

3554 Park Avenue Memphis, TN 38111 901.327.5033

TaghaviRugs.com

MEMPHIS ORTHODONTIC SPECIALISTS >>>

Dr. Scott Werner and Dr. Stanley Werner

Celebrating more than 75 years of combined orthodontic experience, Dr. Scott Werner and Dr. Stanley Werner have offices in Memphis, Munford, and Collierville. They have cared for numerous generations of families, specializing in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics for children and adults. Both understand how a beautiful smile can change a

patient’s life, improving health and selfesteem with traditional appliances or Invisalign. Dr. Scott and Dr. Stanley have been included in the annual Memphis Top Dentists awards every year since its inception, achieved status as Diplomats of the American Board of Orthodontics, and are members of the American Association of Orthodontists. 6425

THE FACE OF PAIN MANAGEMENT

MAYS & SCHNAPP NEUROSPINE AND PAIN >

Established for over 30 years, Mays & Schnapp Neurospine and Pain has been the trusted practice for chronic pain in the Mid-South. In fact, Dr. Moacir Schnapp was a pioneer in the field, and the medical practice continues to be a leader in pain management. Patients choose Mays & Schnapp because they are treated by physicians with decades of experience, including board certifications in pain management. Our specialized team treats each individual patient and his or her pain as unique. There simply is no other place like Mays & Schnapp within 500 miles; where at its CARF accredited facility,

patient treatments are unique to the individual and may include interventional treatments such as nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, and joint injections, as well as restorative therapies like physical therapy and behavioral therapies. You can be sure, when the problem is pain, Mays & Schnapp is the place that can help. Mays & Schnapp treats a wide variety of painrelated conditions including back and neck pain, arm and leg pain, arthritis, sciatica, shingles, peripheral neuropathy from diabetes, multiple sclerosis, complex regional pain syndrome, and post-stroke pain.

MEMPHIS: 55 Humphreys Center Dr., Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38120

JACKSON: 58 Murray Guard Dr., Jackson, TN 38305

SOUTHAVEN: 7600 Airways Blvd., Suite A, Southaven, MS 38671 901.747.0040 | maysandschnapp.com

Left to right: Matthew D. Kangas, MD, Moacir Schnapp, MD and Andrew Dudas, MD

“Music Chose Me ”

S inger Kortland Whalum hails from one of the city’s most musical families.

No w he’s forging his own idiosyncratic path through the performing arts.

BY ALEX GREENE

There’s something about the Whalums. Over four generations, members of the respected Memphis family have distinguished themselves time and again in the fields of music, worship, and public service.

Paterfamilias Kenneth Whalum Sr. found success within the U.S. Postal Service in his native Memphis, then in Cleveland and Detroit, but he ultimately found his calling in his hometown as a man of the cloth. Kenneth Sr. had grown up singing with his musical father, a leader in the A.M.E. Church, before attending LeMoyne-Owen College and the Memphis eological Seminary. For 30 years, Kenneth Sr. served as senior pastor of Olivet Baptist Church, then founded Olivet Fellowship Baptist Church before his death in 2007. And it was in the church where his own family’s musicality would flourish, and all three of Kenneth Sr. and Helen Whalum’s sons (Kenneth Jr., Kirk, and Kevin) remain deeply musical to this day, along with their own children. Kenneth Jr. has followed in his father’s footsteps most directly, now presiding over the same church his father founded.

That is the world that has surrounded Kortland Whalum, son of the Rev. Kenneth Whalum Jr. and his wife, Sheila, throughout his life. Even as Uncle Kirk grew to be a world-class saxophonist and producer (that’s him playing on Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” and many hits by Luther Vandross) — garnering a dozen Grammy nominations and one win — and Uncle Kevin won acclaim as a singer (often appearing on Kirk’s albums), Kortland was also surrounded by the music of the church.

top: The Whalum men of music at the first concert to feature them all together onstage, in 2012 at Olivet Baptist Church. l-r: Kenneth Whalum Jr.; the late Hugh “Peanuts” Whalum; cousins Evan, Kameron, Kyle, and Kortland; Kevin Whalum; Kenneth Whalum III; and Kirk Whalum.

above: Kortland after singing with the MSO Big Band on Mother’s Day at The Dixon Gallery and Gardens last year, with cousin Kori, brother Kameron, and their children on his right, and his parents Sheila and Kenneth Jr. on his left.

“I didn’t want to be like my brother.”

The family is what started it all, I think,”

Kortland reflects. “And not just my uncles being performers. Even my mom and my grandmother were singers, and I grew up in that environment where music is all around. It wasn’t something that I chose; it chose me.”

Not that the Whalum children were railroaded into musicianship. Speaking with me in 2019, Kortland’s Uncle Kirk shared a few thoughts about his very musical upbringing. As a child, he said, “I didn’t feel any pressure [to play music] at all. I couldn’t wait. It was all volitional, from day one.” e Whalums have come by their talent naturally. “My grandmother taught piano and played the pipe organ at Metropolitan Church, and one of my uncles was dean of music at Morehouse [College],” Kirk noted, before bragging on the next generation:

“Now our son, Kyle, plays bass with Kelly Clarkson. My nephew, Kenneth Whalum III, is an incredible saxophone player. He has records out as a vocalist and a saxophonist and has played with Maxwell, Beyonce, and Jay Z. My nephew, Kameron, plays trombone with Bruno Mars. And I’ve got a third nephew in the theater scene. We just

went to see him in Cats, and he’s an incredible singer. His name’s Kortland.”

Surrounded by such talent, focusing on voice was one way for Kortland to find his own way into music. “I wanted to play the saxophone just like my Uncle Kirk,” says Kortland today. “In middle school, we had to pick an instrument, and I wanted to take the saxophone, but my older brother [Kenneth Whalum III] took that instrument. I didn’t want to be like my brother, so I said, ‘How about I just join the choir and do some singing?’ And that’s really when it made sense for me. When my family saw that I could sing, they put me in talent shows and things like that. at’s really when it clicked for me.”

Beginning with his first performance at age six, Kortland found inspiration in Sunday services. “Singing in church was my first stage,” he says. “You’re able to get comfortable, you’re able to work the kinks out. And while you’re doing all of that, you have the love and support from the church members. I think that’s why there are so many successful artists who come from church — because they had that love foundation.”

above: Kortland performing with the Memphis Symphony Orchestra Big Band at the Overton Park Shell’s Sunset Symphony in 2023.

“You have to do it because you love it.”

As he grew older, Kortland gained exposure to more secular worlds, especially when he attended Overton High School, a bastion of local arts education. “My first experience with Broadway and the stage was when I went to New York with Overton in 10th grade. I believe we went to see Aida, e Lion King, and other musicals. And I was like, ‘ is is crazy! ese people are actually singing and acting and having a blast on stage in New York City. Like, who doesn’t want to do that?’ So that set my trajectory for the stage.”

at goal was only reinforced after graduation. Like many of the Whalums, Kortland attended Morehouse College, where he not only developed his vocal skills, but became even more enamored with the theater. “I went to Atlanta for college, where I met Keshia Knight Pulliam, who played Rudy Huxtable on e Cosby Show,” he says. “And I became her assistant. During that time, I was able to learn so much about acting and business and things like that.”

e Wiz , he began to reconsider a return to Memphis. And judging from his performance, he relished performing for the hometown crowd. As Chris Davis wrote in the Memphis Flyer at the time, “Kortland Whalum has so much presence as the Tin Man it starts feeling like his show every time he sings.”

“I didn’t want to be here this long,” Kortland laughs now. “I was going to pursue my dreams in California. But I got the call for e Wiz and I said, ‘ is is a great opportunity. So let me come home.’ I’ve been here ever since, and each year the shows have become more frequent.”

After college, as he rubbed shoulders with the stars and lived in New York for six years, a career in the bigcity theatrical world seemed to beckon. But when he was offered a part in Hattiloo eatre’s 2016 production of

Indeed, Kortland, who will turn 40 this August, is a regular presence in local productions now. Clearly he impressed his Uncle Kirk in Cats a few years ago, and in 2018 he elicited another rave review from Davis, who noted of Hattiloo’s Raisin (a musical adaptation of Raisin in the Sun) that “Kortland Whalum’s leave-it-allon-stage take on Walter Lee Younger is really something to see. Whalum feels nothing lightly and his words and songs land like punches — some weak, flailing and ineffectual, some like haymakers. It’s as rich a performance as I’ve seen in ages.”

Whalum Family Tree

Now he’s deep into rehearsals for eatre Memphis’ production of Beautiful: e Carole King Story, scheduled to run from March 8 through March 30. “I’m playing one of the Drifters,” he says. “So that’s going to be fun: a lot of dancing and singing, and definitely my style of music.” And, he adds, there’s something special about doing theater in Memphis. “I just love the theater community here, because it’s literally a community, you know. ere’s just a love here, in that you have to do it because you love it.”

Ultimately, the way Kortland sees it, his theatrical work here has led to considerable personal growth. “ ese musicals have been helping me to tap into that inner me more,” he says. “I’ve been able to learn so much about music and about myself through these theatrical moments. With each production I see the growth, and I appreciate the growth. Everything just ties into each other. I couldn’t have planned it better and I’m just pushing myself to keep going further and further.”

right: Kortland backstage with makeup artist Sheila Guerrero during production of The Wiz.

Rr

“He still inspires.”

Meanwhile, as Kortland Whalum has pushed himself, he’s found his skill set expanding far beyond theater or even performance. After unexpectedly landing back in Memphis to stay, he’s thrown himself into ways to serve the community he loves. One of those has been education. Soon after his return, he took a vocal teaching position at the Stax Music Academy (SMA) for four years, a time that many at SMA remember fondly.

Tim Sampson, special projects director at SMA, who counts Kortland as one of his best friends, says, “He’s one of the nicest people I’ve ever known. During his time at SMA, we traveled to Europe together with the students — opening festivals for William Bell and Mavis Staples — and he was very inspiring. He still inspires students, in fact, because he’s such a theatrical role model.”

More recently, Kortland keeps one foot in public service, sitting on the board of the Memphis Listening Lab, the nonprofit vinyl record library in Crosstown Concourse. But his real passion continues to be singing, and lately he’s pursued that more seriously than ever, releasing an EP in 2021 of neosoul originals titled A Love Letter. Unsurprisingly, returning to his dream of being a recording artist has helped him bond with his gifted extended family more than ever.

“ e title track of A Love Letter features my whole family, basically,” he laughs. “I’m singing on it, my Uncle Kirk is playing on it, my brothers Kenneth and Kameron are playing on it, and my cousin Kyle is playing the bass. It was a beautiful moment when we recorded it.” e rest of the EP is just as carefully crafted, with more horn arrangements from brother Kameron, and some of Kortland’s most delicate vocals. For projects like this, he sets aside his theatrical voice and sings in the intimate style of a soul confession — or a prayer. As he puts it, that’s because his original music hits closest to his most authentic self, all theatrics aside.

“Whatever I’m dealing with, whatever I’m going through, whatever emotion I’m feeling,” he says, “I have a song in my heart. It really has been my therapy within myself. When I finish singing, I just really feel at ease. I feel everything’s going to be okay. I sing through happy times and through sad times. And it’s been like my twin throughout my life, just helping me navigate through this world that we’re in.”

And so Kortland Whalum forges ahead, determined to navigate this voyage of discovery, leaning into his art as a way to keep evolving. “With no partner or family, I am just a free hummingbird,” he chuckles. “I can do whatever the hell I want to do. I’ll just see what else God has in store, and there are definitely some things in the works. So I’m always putting myself in a position to be available. I just want to keep going, and keep the train moving.”

Look

U rban

Pioneers

For decades, the South Main area was lined with old, empty buildings. Then Terry and Phil Woodard brought new life to them.

BY LINDA GRANELL

EDITOR’S NOTE: Shortly after submitting this article to Memphis Magazine, Linda Granell (above, with son Jack Barrett) unexpectedly passed away, on January 7, 2024. We are grateful that our paths crossed with hers. Linda moved to Memphis in 2002 from Southern California, having been recruited as marketing director for the American Contract Bridge League. She made her home in the South Main area, including serving on the South Main Association’s board for a number of years. We hoped to get to know Linda better, but never got the chance. We knew she was excited to share this story with our readers, and we do so, now, in tribute to her.

Terry and Phil Woodard’s leadership of the 1990s renaissance of South Main Street began with Mae West’s bed. e couple lived in East Memphis, raising their three children and managing their businesses, General Plumbing Co. and Kirby Wines and Liquors. But they had an adventurous nature and found time for Downtown excursions, especially evenings of dining and theater.

On one of those evenings, they attended a Christie’s auction of old Hollywood memorabilia at the Orpheum. Phil left his seat for a moment. When he returned, Terry told him, “We just bought a bed.” To which Phil responded, “I guess we’ll have to buy an apartment down here to put it in.”

They trolleyed down South Main Street and found not an apartment but an entire building that had been abandoned for so long it had a tree growing from the basement through the middle of the rotted first floor. Unfazed by the interior foliage, they bought 508 South Main in 1995.

During the restoration, Phil looked out the window at the boarded-up buildings across the street. “We need a better view,” he said. So the Woodards bought 509 South Main. en 493, 505, 515, and 517, renovating them to become shops, homes, or both.

Investors began to take notice of the newly restored buildings and started to call Phil for advice, and he always provided it, drafting architectural renderings and helping them through the “who” and “how” of the process. Woodard Properties partnered with a few of them, buying 502 and 523-525 South Main with the late Paul Tashie, developer and restaurateur who owned Ciao Bella in Sanderlin Center and La Baguette. e purchase of 523-525 came with the narrow vacant lot between that building and Earnestine and Hazel’s next door. Phil transferred his share of ownership to the Tashie family upon Paul’s death in 2022.

“When we did the renovations at many of our early proprieties, Phil was the architect and I did the fi nishes, just like we’re doing now,” Terry says. Phil wasn’t a card-carrying architect, but he was a skilled draftsman for their plumbing company’s bathroom and kitchen renovations. Building owners can draft their own plans for properties less than 5,000 square feet. “I made sure to keep my properties under that,” Phil says with a broad smile. “We wanted to design our properties our way. I built them all like I was going to live in them.”

e unanswered question: Who was going to live in them? Or shop in them or even open shops, given the decline of small retail?

The Woodards had fallen in love with South Main, in part because it was a chapter in Phil’s family history. His father, Bob, was an entrepreneur. After World War II, he learned about the GI Bill of Rights, a government program that offered veterans funding for education and training.With this in mind, Bob bought 517 South Main in 1948 for the Alonzo Locke School of Waitering, naming it for the Peabody Hotel’s head waiter. At the time, one of Bob’s other businesses

Terry and Phil Woodard

was running the concessions at e Peabody — the cigarette girls, photo mementos for guests, newspapers, and such. A renaissance man like his son, Bob also had been leader of the big band Down and Dixie Boys.

Phil learned that 517 South Main was for sale. He, along with investors including Robert “Prince Mongo” Hodges, made an offer to the owners. Phil’s was the successful one. He later went to Mongo to explain why he had out-bid him. Mongo’s reply was that he was fine with it because Phil had “good juju.” e Woodards still own 517 and recently leased it to Chelsea Fly Art, a new gallery for the burgeoning South Main Arts District.

Many Memphians did not share the Woodards’ affection for South Main, still picturing the neighborhood as it was following the 1968 assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the ensuing riots: dark, deserted, and dangerous. In the early years of the Woodards’ restorations, Phil says, “No one from Memphis rented from us. e people who moved in were all from out of town.”

eir first step toward South Main’s resurgence was to consult with developer Mark Grawemeyer, who recommended that they join the South Main Street Historic District Association (SMSHDA). Founded in 1985 largely to preserve the architectural character of the district, the association had been working with neighbors who had stuck it out through the dark days, like Arcade owners Harry and Karan Zepatos, along with relatively new residents just as eager for the neighborhood’s revival, including Ephraim Urevbu, who had transformed his property to the Art Village Gallery (and his residence).

No story about the Woodards and their impact on South Main would be complete without Ms. Kay, who moved into the Woodards’ St. Martin Condominiums when the restored building opened in 2002. e Doyenne of South Main was an effervescent presence on the street, known for her quick wit, flamboyant hats, and the flask of Canadian blended whiskey she carried in her purse. She will celebrate her 102nd birthday on February 4, 2024.

Trolley Night lit up that dark street. Within a year, South Main teemed with Memphians emboldened by safety in numbers. SMA, keen on promoting the arts, distributed walking tour maps spotlighting 18 galleries. Trolley Night soon attracted street vendors, musicians, and performers from flamenco dancers to roller bladers.

A small team rallied to renovate the unwieldly SMSHDA into the simpler South Main Association (SMA) in 2000, now with a focus on residents, businesses, and an emerging arts culture. e new bylaws read, “ e purpose of the South Main Association is to maintain a community with goals, programs, and activities that foster and protect the district’s residents, businesses, and art community.”

To help achieve its purpose, SMA hosted the first Art Trolley Tour (now Trolley Night) on Friday, September 29, 2000, an event that has been held every month since (barring ice storms and pandemics), even during the four years the trolleys were out of service for repairs.

at first year, Mayor Willie Herenton proclaimed South Main an official arts district.

e 15th anniversary of Trolley Night was held during one of those years, spirits high when a parade down the street was led by a rubber-wheeled trolley bus. Preceded by a police motorcycle escort, the bus carried Ms. Kay Woodard, Phil’s mom, who had been the hostess for the fi rst Trolley Night, fi lling plastic goblets with champagne back when the rules for trolley riders were a tad looser than they are today.

“The purpose of the South Main Association is to maintain a community with goals, programs, and activities that foster and protect the district’s residents, businesses, and art community.”

Businesses stayed open late to maximize the night’s bounty. “Trolley Night was met with much anticipation, lining walls with colorful art, preparing refreshments, setting up a stage for musicians, all in hopes of being mentioned in The Commercial AppealPlaybook or the Memphis Flyer,” says Debra Taylor, whose D’Edge Art & Unique Treasures in The Arcade Building specialized in contemporary Southern folk art. George Hunt, one of Memphis’ most well-known artists, had a studio in her basement and sat at the door on Trolley Nights to greet customers.

“Folks came out in droves to see what’s new,” she says. “Serious collectors sometimes arrived early and returned another day when it was less crowded. It was very rewarding.” And the Woodards would stop by to give businesses a bottle of wine to show their appreciation. “Great memories!” says Taylor.

South Main was suddenly in demand, and the Woodards had the supply. ey already had completed several of their historic restorations, adhering to the 85-page Architectural Design Guidelines for the South Main Historic Preservation District issued by the City of Memphis Office of Planning and Development and Memphis Landmarks Commission.

Some of these were quite strict. In the section on “Treatment of Character-Defi ning Features,” developers are told that if a feature

— say, a cornice or keystone lintel, or quoin — is deteriorated or damaged, it must be repaired to its original condition. If repair isn’t possible, the feature must be recreated using historic materials. A quoin? Historic preservation required an encyclopedic knowledge of architectural terms. (Quoins are blocks that form the external angle of a wall or building.)

The Woodards persevered, and their efforts were rewarded with the first Visionary Award given by the Center City Commission (now the Downtown Memphis Commission) in 1998, the 2004 Memphis Heritage Kay B. Newman Award, even awards from the governing Landmarks Commission.

“The Woodards had a clear vision for South Main,” says Paul Morris,

way,” says archimania interior designer Stephanie Wexler. “To respect the history within an established community while promoting progress, our work is informed not only by regional precedents but national and international. The Woodards have supported this concept fully throughout the duration of our 20-plus-year relationship. It has been a pleasure to see their vision realized and its impact on the district.”

Not content to just live in an arts community, Terry decided to join the arts community, earning her B.F.A. in photography from the Memphis College of Art. She opened Terry Woodard Photography in their restored Tennessee Street office building and exhibited, of course, on Trolley Nights.

president of the Downtown Memphis Commission from 2010 to 2015 and newly elected mayor of Memphis. “They executed their vision with their own properties, and more importantly, they led the entire neighborhood toward making South Main the cool, fun historic arts district that it became. Without the Woodards, and a few other visionary pioneers, we wouldn’t have this eclectic neighborhood that helps define what is good about Memphis.”

The Woodards had proven their respect for history, but they had a new direction in mind. They also owned several vacant properties, including one between their St. Martin Condominiums and The Arcade Building. Since old buildings were not located at these locations, the properties were not subject to preservation restrictions, and the neighborhood soon saw their passion for modern architecture when GE5 Townhomes opened in 2005. For GE5, they brought in archimania, the Woodards’ architecture firm for subsequent townhome developments, and their own contemporary home tucked away off Nettleton Avenue.

In its design brief, archimania describes GE5 as “a careful and deliberate filtration between modern and historic architecture.” Preservation purists didn’t get the “filtration.” Where were the cornices, the quoins? “It definitely wasn’t appreciated by the masses,” Terry says. “The point was that great architecture is art, and what better place for it than the arts district? We weren’t apologetic about it.”

“An arts district true to its name will express itself in a creative

The Woodards celebrate their well-deserved achievements and accolades, but not by posting them on Facebook or Instagram. In fact, they don’t have any social media accounts. They are intensely private, preferring family, friends, and fellow parishioners at St. Patrick Catholic Church over strangers on Twitter. High school sweethearts married 54 years, they are partners both at home and at Woodard Properties. Phil handles the business side and the “grand scheme.” Terry’s influence is seen in interior details, finishes, and colors — “Phil would break out in hives if he had to pick out a color,” Terry laughs — as well as budget management, the “minutia” she calls it, though it’s hardly that.

Their work extends beyond South Main, and even Memphis. During vacations in rural Alabama, the Woodards stumbled across a lakeside complex in Jasper, about a 40-minute drive northwest of Birmingham, with three buildings on six-and-a-half acres. Phil wanted nothing to do with it, but this time it was Terry who had a grand scheme. They bought the property for a retreat (not retirement home), spending two years designing and managing the project themselves. They welcomed the first of many friends and family members for a visit just this past September.

“Phil ended up loving it more than I would have dreamed,” Terry says. They now spend most of their time there, though Memphis is just three hours away should they choose to come to the city for an evening of dining and theater.

What’s next for the couple, now in their 70s? Phil’s bucket list includes renovating an old fire station or church. A neighbor in Jasper, also a local realtor, called recently and said, “Phil, I found your church.” The Woodards bought the First Christian Church of Jasper, resplendent with glorious wood floors and stained-glass windows. Plans are nearly complete to transform the church into four condominiums.

And then? “We’ll never say we’re done,” Terry says. “We may end up being done, but we’ll never say it.” After all, there could be an old fire station in their future.

THE FACE OF PHILANTHROPY

UNITED WAY OF THE MID-SOUTH

Rev. Kenneth S. Robinson, M.D., President

&

CEO

United Way of the Mid-South is helping people move from where they are to where they dream to be.

As the region’s largest public, exclusively charitable foundation, United Way supports high-performing nonprofit agencies through strategically aligned grant-making. United Way’s Community Impact touched the lives of Mid-Southerners over 428,000 times last year with assistance to overcome the factors that contribute to poverty: affordable housing, childcare, employment, access to healthy food, financial management, and so much more. In addition to supporting individual nonprofits, your United Way has connected human service providers into a functional system of support — Driving The Dream™ - that works on behalf of individuals and families. By creating a network of over 130 community partners, including human service agencies, community organizations, and faith-based organizations, Driving The Dream™ creates measurable and sustainable economic and social advancement

for thousands of our community’s citizens, needing supports and services. With a “one-door” approach, the Driving The Dream™ Call Center — 844.444.4211— is often the first stop in getting connected to available resources. Most notably, through Driving The Dream™’s system of care, people who’ve been living in poverty are able to access all the services they need — to achieve financial mobility to break the cycle of poverty — including United Way’s Free Tax Prep, which facilitated $11.3 million in client refunds to low income families last year. To date, Driving The Dream™ has helped over 14,000 people move toward a financially stable and hope-filled future.

United Way of the Mid-South continues to be the innovative leader in grant-making and program development to address the most critical needs in our community. Please visit uwmidsouth.org to donate and learn more about how you can join us to help thousands of our neighbors move from where they are, to where they dream to be!

THE FACE OF PIZZA

BROADWAY PIZZA >>>

Legendary Broadway Pizza, one of Memphis’ favorite family-ownedand operated restaurants, was opened by Lana Jeanette Cox in 1977 at 2581 Broad. Thirdgeneration family members now offer Broadway East at 629 S. Mendenhall. Elder family members raised in extreme poverty find it

important that faithful friends get their money’s worth and don't leave hungry. Not just a pizzeria, Broadway offers salads, whole wings, fish, spaghetti, chicken parmesan, burgers, and homestyle plate-lunch specials. Cakes made in-house daily. We deliver large orders and call-in orders welcomed.

2581 Broad Avenue, Memphis, TN 38112 | 901.454.7930

629 S. Mendenhall, Memphis, TN 38117 | 901.207.1546

BroadwayPizzaMemphis.com

THE FACE OF PHYSICAL THERAPY

SEMMES MURPHEY CLINIC >>>

Not pictured: Payton Graves, Kelly MacLain, Ronnie Montgomery, Richard Bryant, and Olivia Gregory

Physical therapy is essential during any injury's healing and rehabilitation phase. Early intervention and education about one's pain can speed up the return to an active lifestyle. With the help of our physicians on-site, our physical therapists can confidently guide patients back to optimal health using

modern pain and rehabilitation concepts. The focus of our physical therapy practice is on spine-related issues. Since that is our specialty, patients can have confidence that our therapists can help them progress through the correct rehabilitative and restorative programs.

6325 Humphreys Blvd., Memphis, TN 38120 901.522.7700 | semmes-murphey.com

Front row, left to right: Eric Goldberg, Kathryn Barry, and Kristina Uthe

Back row, left to right: Courtney Drzyzga, Damien Klingberg, and Ben Graves

THE FACE OF PLUMBING

SMITH'S PLUMBING SERVICES >>>

Dustin Smith, owner

Fourteen years ago, armed with determination and a vision, I left a local home service company to pursue my dream: establishing the only exclusive plumbing business in the Mid-South. Fast forward to today, and that dream has become a reality. With a team of 50 dedicated individuals, we've built a reputation for excellence, as evidenced by our solid 5-star rating on Google with over 3,000 glowing

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reviews. Under the leadership of General Manager Thomas Berish and Service Manager Tim Fancher, we are committed to providing top-notch plumbing services to all Memphians. At Smith's Plumbing Service, our slogan says it all: "We want to be your plumber for life!" If you're in need of reliable plumbing solutions, don't hesitate to reach out. Let us be your trusted partner for all your plumbing needs.

THE FACE OF PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICE

ROBINSON TREE SERVICE >>>

Once again, Robinson Tree is proud to be the Face of Professional Tree Service in Memphis Magazine. Robinson Tree is a 100% family-owned local tree service serving the Memphis area. Jason moved to Memphis in 1996 after earning a degree in Urban Forestry at Texas A&M. Cynthia is a lifelong Memphian who graduated from the University of Memphis and has a long history in customer service. Since buying the

business from a family member in 2001, Jason and Cynthia have grown the company into one of Memphis's most recommended tree services. They both strive to offer a professional tree service experience with well-trained crews. They understand how valuable our trees are and the importance of professionally maintaining those valuable assets. Have you looked at your trees lately? Give them a call for a free estimate.

2807 Farrisview Rd., Memphis, TN 38118 | 901.363.3539 | RobinsonTree.net

FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

WILSON PUBLIC RELATIONS >>>

Beth Wilson, MBA, APR, is the founder and CEO of Wilson Public Relations. For two decades, she has led award-winning communications campaigns in fields ranging from tech, manufacturing, education, and agribusiness to healthcare, professional services, hospitality, and nonprofits. As an industry leader, Wilson is an adjunct professor in the Department of Journalism and Strategic Media at the University

of Memphis, as well as a regular contributor to various local and national publications. She also actively supports organizations, including 901Women, Chris Hope Foundation, and AngelStreet Memphis, among others. Wilson received her bachelor’s degree and Executive MBA from the University of Memphis and her Accreditation in Public Relations from the Universal Accreditation Board.

Beth@WilsonPublicRelations.com | WilsonPublicRelations.com

THE FACE OF RETIREMENT LIVING

THE VILLAGE AT GERMANTOWN >>>

Ever heard the phrase “It takes a village?” Well, we are THE Village — a vibrant community of people who support each other and embrace life to the fullest every day. From our dedicated staff who view their work as a calling, not just a job, to our fun-loving residents who cherish spending time together,

we have created something truly special. Nestled in the heart of Germantown, a wide range of activities await, including interfaith services, Tai Chi, a putting green, ukelele classes, billiards, and a very popular social hour. It's the ideal place to retire and continue living life to the fullest.

7820 Walking Horse Circle, Germantown, TN 38138

901.730.8519 l Village-Germantown.com

THE FACE OF REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE

Fertility Associates of Memphis is the only state-of-the-art practice providing comprehensive reproductive health care to couples of the Mid-South and beyond, treating patients struggling with infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and reproductive disorders. Our highly specialized team utilizes cutting-edge techniques, including in vitro fertilization with laser blastocyst biopsy, preimplantation genetic testing, and fertility preservation, and has been designated a Center of Excellence. Our compassionate physicians, board-certified in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, have been bringing dreams to life for over 28 years.

80 Humphreys Center, Suite 307, Memphis, TN 38120 | 901.747.2229 | FertilityMemphis.com

FERTILITY ASSOCIATES OF MEMPHIS >>>

Left to right: Paul R. Brezina, MD, Amelia P. Bailey, MD, William H. Kutteh, MD, PhD, and Raymond W. Ke, MD

THE FACE OF RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

TODD T. ADAMS >>>

“The Art of Exceptional Service.”

What sets “Too Tall” Todd Adams apart is not the number of successful deals closed, but the composure and confidence with which each transaction is orchestrated. Known for an unparalleled dedication to client satisfaction, Todd remains at the forefront, armed with a deep understanding of market trends, property values, and investment

opportunities. Todd is a trusted advisor, guiding clients through the intricate real estate landscape with integrity and professionalism. With a track record that speaks volumes and a commitment to excellence that transcends expectations, he uses the latest technology and insights to empower clients in making informed decisions — ensuring that every move is strategic and financially sound.

Keller Williams Realty | 775 Ridge Lake Blvd., Suite 400, Memphis, TN 38120

901.870.7633 | tootalltodd@kw.com | toddadams.kw.com

FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH

THE FACE OF RESTAURANT AND KITCHEN DESIGN

HOTEL AND RESTAURANT SUPPLY >>>

For 70 years, Hotel and Restaurant Supply has fulfilled culinary needs for institutions of all sizes, including restaurants, schools, and major hospitals across the U.S. The team offers unparalleled design, project management, warehousing, and installation services, ensuring projects move smoothly from concept

to completion. By prioritizing customer service, cutting-edge design services (AutoCAD and Revit), and fostering close relationships with architects, designers, general contractors, and restaurateurs, Hotel and Restaurant Supply has become the premier commercial kitchen provider in the southeast.

3644 Winchester Road, Memphis, TN 38118 | 901.368.0033 hnrsupply.com/memphisdesigncenter

FLEET

A passion for running, fitness, and a healthy lifestyle continually inspires us to be the local landing place for active Memphians.

We continue to not only fit runners and walkers, but also health care heroes, service industry workers, and first responders — all people who spend long days on their feet.

We cherish serving the running community at local races and charitable events throughout the city.

We are grateful for the journey that began 31 years ago to be the best place in Memphis for running shoes and gear and has evolved into a store that means so much more.

4530 Poplar in Laurelwood | 901.761.0078 | FleetFeetMemphis.com

Facebook.com/FleetFeetMemphis | Instagram.com/FleetFeetMemphs

THE FACE OF SPINE CARE

SEMMES MURPHEY CLINIC >>>

Semmes Murphey Clinic's neurosurgeons, physiatrists, and interventional painmanagement specialists are dedicated to spine conditions. From conservative treatments like physical therapy and painblocking injections to innovative procedures such as motionpreserving spine surgery (artificial disc replacement)

and minimally invasive spine surgery, our specialists work collaboratively to provide individualized care. Their work is tested and proven by nationwide quality outcomes studies. The degree of neck and back pain improvement for SMC spine surgery patients is greater than the national average and highest in the region.

6325 Humphreys Blvd., Memphis, TN 38120 901.522.7700 | semmes-murphey.com

Front row, left to right: Dr. Michael LaBagnara, Dr. Sam Polk, Dr. Michael Muhlbauer, Dr. Raul Cardenas, and Dr. Paul Park

Back row, left to right: Dr. Kyle Smith, Dr. Jay McDonald, Dr. Jeffrey Sorenson, Dr. Kenan Arnautovic, Dr. Jason Weaver, and Dr. Todd Fountain

THE FACE OF SPORTS MEDICINE

ORTHOSOUTH

As the sports medicine providers for the Memphis Grizzlies, and several high school and prep sports teams in the Mid-South, OrthoSouth is committed to the care of athletes at all performance levels. This world-

class sports medicine care is just the beginning, however. OrthoSouth’s hospitality-inspired principles of customer service help us to optimize every patient’s experience from beginning to end.

LOCATIONS: Memphis-Poplar Ave. | Memphis-Primacy Pkwy. | Memphis-Briarcrest Ave. (+ evening hours) | Bartlett (+ Saturday clinic) | Germantown (+ surgery center) | Atoka (PT only) | Southaven (+ surgery center + Saturday Clinic) | Hernando | ORTHOSOUTH.ORG

Pictured, left to right: Tom Giel, MD; Chip Christian, MD; David Brown, MD; Kenneth Weiss, MD; David Deneka, MD; Chris Ferguson, MD; Greg Wolf, MD; Riley Jones, MD; Robert Lonergan, MD; Marcus Biggers, MD; Tyler Cannon, MD; Jay Saenz, MD; and Arsen Manugian, MD

Not pictured: Chris Pokabla, MD

THE FACE OF VASCULAR SURGERY

VASCULAR

AND VEIN INSTITUTE OF THE SOUTH > >

The Vascular and Vein Institute of the South (VVIS) represents the largest group of independent, board-certified vascular surgeons in the Mid-South. Founded in 2018 with a single office in Germantown, TN, VVIS now consists of nine locations across the tri-state area (TN, AR, MS) and serves as the premier center for limb preservation. Specializing in both minimally-invasive, outpatient, endovascular procedures and open surgery – VVIS offers a comprehensive scope of practice, including peripheral arterial disease, varicose veins, uterine fibroid embolization, dialysis access creation and maintenance, carotid disease, aortic aneurysms, and beyond.

Providing convenient locations in: Germantown, TN | Memphis, TN | Millington, TN | Southaven, MS | Senatobia, MS | Oxford, MS | Grenada, MS | West Memphis, AR | Forrest City, AR 901.390.2930 | VascularAndVeinInstitute.com

Left to right: Dr. Gabor A. Winkler, Dr. Anton Dias Perera, Dr. Prateek K. Gupta, and Dr. Daniel M. Alterman

THE FACE OF STROKE SURGERY

SEMMES MURPHEY CLINIC >>>

Every year more than 795,000 Americans have a stroke.

Semmes Murphey Clinic's neurovascular team, the largest and most experienced in the nation, is here to fight stroke and its devastating effects in the Mid-South and beyond. The physicians are devoted to delivering and researching life-saving interventions for acute stroke

and improving care for stroke survivors. Locally and globally, they dedicate themselves to spreading awareness about stroke prevention. Semmes Murphey Clinic's team also diagnoses and treats various conditions, including aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, carotid artery stenosis, moyamoya disease, and more.

6325 Humphreys Blvd., Memphis, TN 38120

901.522.7700 | semmes-murphey.com

Left to right: Dr. Christopher Nickele, Dr. Adam Arthur, Dr. Lucas Elijovich, Dr. Violiza Inoa, and Dr. Nitin Goyal

THE FACE OF WEDDING REGISTRY

BABCOCK GIFTS >>>

Babcock Gifts, a Memphis tradition, is celebrating over 50 years of leading the way in wedding registry and gift giving.

Babcock Gifts offers customers personalized service and an

outstanding collection of gifts and tabletop choices for their everyday table or a special occasion. Online or in person, our staff is here to assist you with your registry or an update of your table.

LAURELWOOD SHOPPING CENTER: 4538 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38117

901.763.0700 l BabcockGifts.com

THE FACE OF WEIGHT LOSS & REGENERATIVE MEDICINE

DE LA BELLE WELLNESS & SPA >>>

Renee Pinlac, MSN, FNP, is the owner of De La Belle Wellness & Spa in the Shops of Chickasaw Oaks Village. Renee received her Masters of Science in Nursing and is certified in Family Practice. She has 25+ years of experience in Comprehensive Weight Loss Management and Education, Endocrinology, and Facial Aesthetic Rejuvenation. Renee holds certification as a Master Cosmetic Botox and Dermal Filler Injector, as well as certifications in Laser Facial Aesthetics and Noninvasive Laser Lipo treatments. Renee believes in providing modern and regenerative therapy treatments, such as panfacial rejuvenation, and balancing with Derma PRP (Platelet

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Rich Plasma), ‘liquid gold’, PRP and Plantbased exosomes for hair restoration, PDO threads for non-surgical face, brow, and body lifting, bioidentical pellet hormone therapy for men and women, and IV mineral and vitamin hydration. Her 17+ years of experience at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has allowed her to bring a higher level of professionalism and compassion to medical aesthetic and weight-loss treatments. Renee cares about her clients' wellbeing, both inside and out at De La Belle Wellness & Spa. With her extensive clinical background, she's holding the aesthetic industry of Memphis to a higher standard than ever before!

901.433.9024

THE FACE OF WINE & LIQUOR

Thirty-nine years ago, the owners and staff at Kirby Wines & Liquors started out with the mission of providing the best selection, pricing, and service to the Mid-South. Fast-forward to today, and our goal is the same. Our experience and dedication to our customers animates this endeavor, providing a broad international selection of wine and liquor, as well as ever-changing and seasonal beer offerings. It is also our great pleasure to assist in planning parties from 2 to 2,000 guests, including party supplies, gifts, and delivery. We are truly your one-stop shop.

KIRBY WINES & LIQUORS >>>

Front row, left to right: Stephen Newport, Philip Forman, and Brian Herrera

Back row, left to right: Zach Scott and Jeremy Vasser

April 12 - 14

THE CITY ON THE EDGE OF THE CITY

FOR MORE THAN 90 YEARS BOYLE INVESTMENT COMPANY HAS LEFT ITS MARK ON MEMPHIS, BUT FEW DEVELOPMENTS CHANGED THE FACE OF THIS CITY AS MUCH AS RIDGEWAY CENTER.

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BY MICHAEL FINGER

The restaurant on the top floor of the Hyatt Regency offered diners impressive views of the city in all directions.

When Boyle Investment Company first opened its doors in 1933, local business leaders were already familiar with the family who founded the new firm. After all, J. Bayard Boyle Sr., B. Snowden Boyle, and Charles H. Boyle Jr. could trace their ancestry all the way back to Judge John Overton, one of the three men from Nashville who founded Memphis in 1819.

e three brothers’ father and uncle, Edward and Charles Boyle, respectively, had started out practicing law, but soon turned to property sales and developments. In 1907, they embarked on an ambitious real estate project. Working with the city’s best architects, they created Belvedere Boulevard, then as now considered one of the most beautiful streets in Memphis.

e new Boyle Investment Company, however, initially served as agents and mortgage loan specialists for out-of-town insurance companies, including New York Life and Nashville Life and Accident Insurance. ey also began to manage residential properties for these companies: financing, rentals, loan payment, and other services.

e fi rm expanded quickly, outgrowing its original headquarters at 148 Monroe and moving to an impressive building at 42 S. Second, which still stands today as the Cadre Building. Along the way, they embarked on other business ventures, in the 1950s working with local builders to develop subdivisions such as Sherwood Forest, known for its Robin Hood-themed streets and school, and Pleasant Acres at Poplar and White Station. en, teaming up with wholesale grocers Malone & Hyde, Boyle began to finance, develop, and construct shopping centers around town, among them Park Plaza and Cloverleaf Shopping Center.

As the company enjoyed steady growth, Boyle hired a new, younger generation who would play strategic roles in the projects that would follow. J. Bayard Boyle Jr. joined the firm in 1960, after graduating from Washington & Lee University and attending law school at the University of Virginia. Henry Morgan, the son of First Tennessee Bank president Allen Morgan Sr., came aboard after graduating from the University of North Carolina. Another family connection was considerably more important to Henry; when he came home from college, he married Elizabeth Snowden Boyle — known to everyone as Snow, the daughter of Bayard Boyle Sr.

Russell Bloodworth, trained as an architect at the University of Virginia, with

additional studies at Yale and other schools, joined the Boyle team in the 1960s. Known to everyone as Rusty, his particular interest was preserving the natural environment. In 1974, Southern Living featured him in a story called “A Tree Fanatic in Memphis.” Other new team members included Albert Fulmer and Edward Sappinsley, both experts in land acquisition. Fulmer, in fact, had developed a close relationship with area farmers. A previous job had him traveling around the Mid-South, selling them Curly Tail Hog Feed.

By the late 1960s, with all of this expertise, and looking for new opportunities, Boyle Investment Company was poised to create one of the most important developments in the history of Memphis. They focused on a unique property at Poplar and I-240 that The Commercial Appeal would later call “The City on the Edge of the City.” Memphians know it today as Ridgeway Center.

The Boyle family liked to tell the story about Bayard Sr. piling his wife and kids in their car and going on Sunday drives. While these outings beyond the city limits may have been pleasant, they were actually work days for the father, who was scouting the landscape for new properties his company could acquire and develop.

During those drives into the county with his family, Bayard Sr. surely noticed Ridgeway Country Club. He was an avid golfer, after all, but he had more ambitious plans in mind than a sunny day on the links. In fact, he and his team would create what might arguably be considered the most important commercial development in this area’s recent history — the first mixed-use development (commercial, retail, residential, and more) in the Mid-South.

The country club had a long history. In 1861, a group of young men formed the Southern Club, a social organization located above the Lyric Theatre on Madison Avenue. In 1862, when Union forces took control of Memphis, they objected to the club’s name, so members changed it to the Rex Club, erecting a handsome brick clubhouse at Madison and Dunlap. In 1919, as the University of Tennessee medical division expanded in that area, the club purchased 178 acres of land on Poplar far

beyond the city limits. When more members joined, in the 1930s they added a golf course and swimming pool.

Members also changed the name to the Rex Ridgeway Club for its proximity to the Ridgeway community, which had its own station on the nearby Southern Railroad. Newspapers of the day carried news of sorority and fraternity parties, weddings and receptions, Cotton Carnival events, and other social activities there. By the 1950s, the name changed again, to Ridgeway Country Club.

Around this time, construction crews were looping a new federal interstate system around Memphis, and the eastern portion of I-240 passed between the club and Memphis Memorial Park cemetery (taking with it some acres of the club). The busy interchange at Poplar and I-240 would drastically increase the amount of traffic at the old country club.

In 1966, club members pondered a move east, while Bayard Boyle Jr. and Eddie Sappinsley began negotiations to purchase 154 acres of the golf course property, at the same time working with the city to rezone the entire property.

As head of Boyle’s newly formed Office Development Team, Henry Morgan recalled, “Ridgeway Center was really the beginning of my career. I enjoyed getting into that, and it was a fun, exciting time. It was an opportunity to get in a lot of development, and we had the best suburban office site in East Memphis, with a nice blank canvas to work with.” Developing the new project would involve almost every member of the Boyle company, and some new faces as well.

Born in Chicago, Mark Halperin’s family moved to Memphis in 1959. He attended Memphis University School and graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville with a degree in accounting. During college, he met Henry Morgan, who helped him with a real estate course project, and Morgan persuaded him to join Boyle in 1973.

Halperin soon became part of the Office Development Team, mentored by Bob Loftin, the company’s longtime chief administrative officer. He joined the firm just as Ridgeway Center was being developed,

Bayard Boyle Sr. and (far right) Russell Bloodworth.

and took primary responsibility for filling almost all of those buildings — some 130,000 square feet of office space, which grew to more than 2,000,000 — and other Boyle developments.

A key part of that job had always been keeping the tenants happy. “We really motivate ourselves to think like owners,” Halperin said, “to treat our customers as if we’re the owners of the buildings. And I think our customers really respond to that and appreciate that.” Apparently, they do. “In all these years, we have never lost a transaction over a lease issue,” he said. “We’re just not going to let that happen.”

Halperin shared the opinion of so many others about the genius of Bayard Boyle Sr. “He could just see way down the road,” he said. “A lot of investments that the company is benefitting from today, he made maybe 40, 50, or 60 years ago.”

After earning a degree in political science from Washington and Lee University, Joel Fulmer also joined Boyle in 1973, when the company embarked on the Ridgeway Center development. He was the son of Albert Fulmer, who had played a major role in acquiring much of the farmland that later became Boyle’s most high-profile developments.

Joel Fulmer eventually became involved in the company’s industrial properties, developing factories and warehouses for international clients such as Cargill and Hunter Fan, and taking charge of leasing Century Center and the South Perkins Business Center, among others.

Speaking about Bayard Boyle Sr., the younger Fulmer shared the same respect of his colleagues who joined the company in the early 1970s. “His business acumen was remarkable,” he said, “and his ability to relate to people, encourage them, and inspire their loyalty was unmatched.”

Bloodworth was tasked with developing an overall scheme for the Ridgeway land. Not satisfied after climbing the club’s water tower, he took a helicopter flight for a bird’s-eye view of the entire property.

“My sense,” he said, “was that the existing terrain and

vegetation, carved originally for a golf course, offered us a rare opportunity to preserve ancient oaks while enhancing environmental processes.”

The first task was to design a traffic plan for the development, and Boyle came up with three main streets to circle the development, with only a few cross streets. Despite the eventual large number of tenants, the general effect was (and still is) an uncongested, and quite beautiful, office park.

The first phase began in 1973, with the construction of a two-story building close to the Poplar Avenue entrance to Ridgeway Center. Boyle Investment Company moved their entire operation into this building, leaving behind their office Downtown.

Other buildings quickly followed, most of them designed by noted Memphis architect Francis Mah. For the most part, they were two- or three-story structures, featuring buff brick exteriors and tinted glass windows. Wherever possible, thanks to Bloodworth’s efforts, the oldest and largest trees on the property were preserved, creating an office park with plenty of mature greenery.

Halperin worked with clients to move their offices to Ridgeway Center. Among the earliest residents were UMIC, Buick, National Bank of Commerce, New England Life, and Rhea and Ivy. Established in Midtown in 1939, First Evangelical Church erected a new sanctuary in the early 1970s, hard to miss with its soaring white steeple. The Malco chain, operating movie theaters in Memphis for decades, opened its Ridgeway Four cinema in 1976, with its distinctive hand-painted lobby mural depicting movie stars, past and present.

What made this project so unusual was its variety. At the time, Memphians didn’t go to church, drop their kids off at school, walk to their office, and then go home to their nice condos or visit relatives staying in a major hotel — all in the same business center. These tasks usually required drives all over town. Ridgeway, and the projects that followed, changed all that.

An essential component of the new development was the revamped intersection at Poplar. Boyle estimated that some 4,000 cars entered and left Ridgeway Center on a daily basis, so traffic planners, civil engineers, and the Boyle team conceived the Poplar Avenue overpass,

above Left: Mark Halperin at Humphreys Center, circa 1993. above, standing L-r: Jack Tackett, Al Austin, and Henry Morgan. seated L-r: Bayard Boyle Jr. and Bayard Boyle Sr.

adjacent interstate.

From a driver’s point of view, said Halperin, it remains “the only unencumbered left turn the entire length of Poplar.” That was a remarkable feat considering that Poplar is this city’s longest (and one of its busiest) streets, stretching from the riverfront all the way (as Highway 57) to Collierville and beyond.

The most eye-catching element of Ridgeway Center, of course, was the Hyatt Regency, a 26-story mirror-glass tower, which The Commercial Appeal colorfully but correctly described as “the maypole around which East Memphis will revolve.” Designed by Walk Jones and Francis Mah, the distinctive hotel opened in 1975. More than 400 guest

rooms occupied the round tower, all of them reached by a feature that was, at the time, unique to Memphis: glass-walled elevators mounted outside of the tower. These would whisk guests and visitors to their rooms or to the top-floor restaurant, Hugo’s.

The hotel interior was a rather complex design. After praising the “pure mirror-glass cylinder that rises from a reflecting pool,” the authors of Memphis: An Architectural Guide, described it this way: “Inside, the space is shaped like a fan, each blade raised above the other to allow daylight to pour into the interior.” They noted the spacious lobby, the formal Regency Court cocktail lounge, a more casual entertainment area called the Joint Venture, mirrored escalators to lower levels, and even a bridge that carried guests and visitors to the elevator tower. Those elevators “open your view to the surrounding landscape as you go up to your room, thus providing the final panorama in this clever promenade of changing space and perceptions.”

On the lower levels, The Commercial Appeal praised the “large, convex windows in the Garden Café, [which] give a picturesque of the man-made lake which nearly surrounds the hotel tower.” The reporter concluded his appraisal of the new building: “Overall, the new Hyatt Regency reflects an eye for detail. When the lake was finished, the management knew exactly what was needed — some graceful swans. But locating them proved to be difficult. For the hotel’s grand opening, two white swans had to be flown in from Boston.”

The grand opening took place on September 15, 1975. A giant red ribbon with a bow was tied around the tower, which Bayard Boyle Sr. told reporters “symbolized that the hotel was a gift to the whole Memphis community.” The society columnist for The Commercial Appeal called the black-tie event that evening “one super party,” saying that “guests ran out of superlatives to describe the party and the surroundings.” So great

Morgan Jr., and Bayard Morgan. beLow: The Shops of Humphreys Center in 1989.

was the demand to attend the event that members of the Boyle family, as well as the hotel manager, Hugh Andrews, served as hosts for two separate events that night. Guests enjoyed “an enormous tiered table, with pianists playing twin baby-grand pianos on the top tier. Below were ornate ice carvings of seahorses and swans, with tables overflowing with quiches, steak tartare, stuffed mushrooms, and shrimp.”

Local VIPS enjoying the food and festivities included Meg and Norfleet Turner, Jean and Frank Norfleet, Sara and George Humphreys, Wilda and Herbert Humphreys, Abe Plough, Pat and Ned Cook, Alice and Tiff Bingham, and more than 500 other business and civic leaders.

When the Hyatt Regency first opened, Boyle Investment Company owned the property. Over the years, it was sold to other owners, first becoming the Omni Memphis (1989), then Adam’s Mark (1992). Since 2004, it’s been part of the Hilton chain.

The tenants we brought to Ridgeway Center have been a who’s who of American business,” said Halperin. “I don’t think people truly understood at the time what a huge project this was for Memphis.”

And Boyle was just getting started. While adding more properties along Shady Grove and Sweetbriar Roads, the company planners took on the challenge of providing a new east-west artery linking Memphis and Germantown. In the 1980s, working with other landowners in the area, Boyle developed Humphreys Boulevard, a beautifully landscaped corridor running parallel to the Wolf River. At the intersection of the new road with Walnut Grove, they created The Shops of Humphreys Center, a $150 million commercial project adjacent to Baptist Memorial Hospital that became home to medical facilities, retail, restaurants, and multi-family residences. Advertisements promoted its unique features, such as “outside benches, a beautiful lake and fountain. Classical music in the air. Striking architecture and a feeling of elegance.”

In the wooded acreage east of I-240 and between Walnut Grove and Poplar, Boyle laid out some of this city’s most distinctive neighborhoods. River Oaks came

first, with more than 500 single-family homes. The 73-lot Gardens of River Oaks would follow, and then the Cloisters of River Oaks, with 65 homes. “The concept is to leave the land heavily wooded with rolling hills,” noted The Commercial Appeal, “and enhance the natural terrain.”

The northeast corner of Poplar and Shady Grove had remained an open field, owned by the Erb family of Memphis for generations. Boyle Investment Company acquired this property and transformed it into a specialty retail center, The Regalia, with the 212-room Embassy Suites hotel just to the north.

Two founders of Boyle Investment Company passed away in the early 1990s. Though no longer active with the company, B. Snowden Boyle died in 1991. He had remained involved with civic affairs here, serving as finance chairman of the board of Rhodes College and board member of the Crippled Children’s Hospital.

J. Bayard Boyle Sr. passed away in 1995, while on vacation in Michigan. The Commercial Appeal lauded him as a “real estate pioneer,” and his front-page obituary noted that he had “transformed Shelby County.” His son, Bayard Jr., said, “He was a genius at buying property, and he had wonderful relationships with people. They all liked him and trusted him.”

Other business associates echoed that sentiment. “He started the development of all of East Memphis,” said Allen Morgan Jr., and Neely Mallory observed, “If Boyle Investment Company was doing it, it was always done right.”

In the 1990s, a new generation joined the company, and they moved into leadership roles. Bayard Boyle Jr. remained actively involved as chairman emeritus, along with Henry Morgan Sr. Paul Boyle, the son of Bayard Jr. and Elizabeth Hudson (“Huddy”) Boyle, was named president in 2013 and chairman in 2022. After graduating from Washington and Lee, he had started his career at Boyle by working construction on the U.S. Postal Service Southeastern Headquarters in Humphreys Center, later selling lots for the Cloisters of River Oaks.

“Our company philosophy is to attract the finest people and give them the opportunity in a friendly,

Artwork, thoughtful landscaping, and elegant homes in a variety of styles are hallmarks of Boyle neighborhoods.

team-oriented environment to advance themselves, their families, and their teammates further in life than they might elsewhere,” he said.

Meanwhile, two sons of Henry Morgan and his wife, Snow, came aboard. After graduating from Mississippi State, Henry Jr. had first worked at Ridgeway Center, “doing anything the property manager requested,” he says. “It was actually very valuable work, because it was great time spent with tenants, getting to know them and forming relationships.” He also held positions with Boyle-owned Mid-America Construction Company, and then became property manager at Humphreys Center.

“The key to the company’s success is hiring and keeping the right people,” said Morgan. “It’s all about people and relationships.”

Younger brother Bayard Morgan studied art and anthropology at the University of Mississippi. He also began his Boyle career with Mid-America Construction. “My dad told me, ‘You need to learn this business from every angle,’ he says, “and that was my start.” After running his own pottery business for several years, he joined Boyle, where he became actively involved in environmental efforts, especially with the Wolf River Conservancy.

“I’m especially proud that Boyle has developed our properties,” he said. “Since Boyle’s founding in 1933, the company has emphasized the preservation of the natural elements in the communities we develop.”

Today, both Henry Jr. and Bayard serve as company vice presidents and members of the Boyle board of directors.

Then Boyle began to look eastward. In 1998, the company broke ground on one of its most impressive projects — Schilling Farms in Collierville. Originally the distinctive white fences along Poplar set off a sprawling cattle ranch and Ford tractor demonstration farm owned by Neal Schilling, a wellknown Lincoln-Mercury dealer in Memphis. After his

death, the rolling pastures passed into the hands of his business partner, Harry Smith, who approached Boyle about developing the site.

The result was a 443-acre mixed-use development that included a wide range of residential neighborhoods that would be home to more than 1,700 families, along with a YMCA, corporate headquarters buildings, retail centers, restaurants, medical offices, a church, a school, and more.

“Our emphasis was on creating a real community,” said Gary Thompson, who was involved in the initial planning. An artifact left over from the original farm, an old sheet-metal water tower, was restored and relocated to serve as the centerpiece of a carefully designed section of Schilling Farms to be called — quite logically — Water Tower, with design elements borrowed from some of the best residential areas of cities in Europe.

Other major Boyle projects in the Collierville area include Price Farms (home to the Carriage Crossing shopping center), and Spring Creek Ranch, an exclusive neighborhood which has twice served as home for the annual Vesta Home Show.

During this same period, Boyle Investment Company had been involved in full-scale developments even farther to the east, which would change the face of the Nashville area. In 2001, two key players with Trammel Crow, area director Jeff Haynes and retail division manager Jeff Fawcett, joined the Boyle team.

“Phil and I had several potential paths when we decided to leave Trammel Crow,” Haynes explained, “and we ultimately chose Boyle Investment Company. We had competed against [them] in Memphis and had tremendous respect for their integrity, reputation, and long-term vision.”

Their first project was Center Court, a stunning new “Class A” office building in Brentwood, which soon became headquarters for Boyle’s rapidly growing Nashville team. Soon to follow was a master-planned community outside Franklin called Berry Farms, with its 600 acres home to residential, retail, restaurants, offices, hotels, and other commercial facilities. Another multi-use development was Meridian Cool Springs, which the Nashville Business Journal called, “a great piece of property.” Meanwhile, in Nashville itself, Boyle developed Capitol View, which included residential and commercial space, as well as the new Frankie Pierce Park.

The most recent change in the Boyle leadership team took place in 2022. For years, Matt Hayden had been senior vice president for Wunderlich Securities and before that a top official with Morgan Keegan and Ernst & Young. He joined Boyle in 2014 as deputy treasurer. When Charles Claiborne, the company’s longtime chief financial officer, retired Hayden was promoted to CFO. In 2022, he was named president and chief executive officer — the first non-family member to hold this position in almost 90 years.

“With an unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction,” said Hayden, “Boyle has set new standards for what it means to build environments where families flourish, dreams come alive, and businesses thrive.”

Matt Hayden, President and CEO of Boyle Investment Company. above right: This brick tower marks the main entrance to the Schilling Farms community in Collierville.

☜ continued from 65

Roberts has photographed several Memphis musicians through the years, including Jim Dickinson, B.B. King, Alex Chilton, Johnny Cash, and others, but if you ask her about Memphis, her memory quickly turns to the infamous Sex Pistols concert at the Taliesyn Ballroom (now the site of a Taco Bell on Union) on January 6, 1978.

“It was just the second concert the Sex Pistols had done in the U.S.,” Roberts remembers. “I was home for the holidays when I got the job. eir first concert was in Atlanta and I was supposed to go, but the weather was bad, so the publicist said to sit tight.

“Meanwhile, Memphis was going crazy. The newspapers were running stories day after day about the band and the show and about how the city would not allow simulated sex acts on stage, that sort of thing.

e police even sent officers to Atlanta to check out the concert there — it was ridiculous. But that turned out to be the most exciting show I’ve ever photographed.

“ e crowd was jammed in there in front of the band,

jumping up and down. ere was spitting and screaming and the music was so loud. It was an old mansion or something, definitely not a place you’d think to have a punk concert. e floor was bouncing so much I thought we’d fall through to the basement. I had no idea if any of my photographs would be in focus because of the bouncing and jostling.

“Finally, when it was over, the crowd left and I started gathering up my cameras and equipment. I remember there was just one guy left, sitting on the floor against the back wall. He had the mohawk, the safety pins, the look — all of it. His mouth was hanging wide open. I leaned over and asked him if he was all right and he said, ‘Yes, ma’am.’ A polite punk. I thought it was very Memphis.”

Ebet Roberts’ work has been syndicated and exhibited worldwide and has been included in television specials, music anthologies, posters, advertisements, galleries, and private collections. Her photographs have been reproduced in publications and books, including  rolling stone, spin, gq,  the new york times, newsweek, time, people,  usa today, and  the village voice. They are also in the permanent collections of The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Seattle’s Experience Music Project, The Grammy Museum, and The Hard Rock Cafe. For information on prints, visit ebetroberts.com.

above: Jim Dickinson in Coldwater, Mississippi, on April 16, 2001.

right: Miles Davis in New York City on April 5, 1988.

Memphis Dining Guide

A Curated Guide to Eating Out

MemphisMagazine offers this curated restaurant listing as a service to our readers. Broken down alphabetically by neighborhoods, this directory does not list every restaurant in town. It does, however, include the magazine’s “Top 50” choices of must-try restaurants in Memphis, a group that is updated every August. Establishments open less than a year are not eligible for “Top 50” but are noted as “New.” is guide also includes a representative sampling of other Bluff City eating establishments. No fast-food facilities or cafeterias are listed. Restaurants are included regardless of whether they advertise in  MemphisMagazine; those that operate in multiple locations are listed under the neighborhood of their original location. is guide is updated regularly, but we recommend that you call ahead to check on hours, prices, or other details. Suggestions from readers are welcome.

DOWNTOWN

117 PRIME—Restaurateurs Craig Blondis and Roger Sapp team up with Chef Ryan Trimm to recreate the traditional American steakhouse. Serving oysters on the half shell and a variety of surf and turf options. 117 Union. 433-9851. L, D, WB, X, $-$$$

ALDO’S PIZZA PIES—Serving gourmet pizzas — including Mr. T Rex — salads, and more. Also 30 beers, bottled or on tap. 100 S. Main. 577-7743; 752 S. Cooper. 725-7437. L, D, X, $-$$

AMELIA GENE’S—Globally inspired fine dining cuisine at the One Beale project, including Rohan duck, wagyu filet, and an extensive cheese cart. 255 S. Front. 686-5051. D, X, $$-$$$

THE ARCADE—Possibly Memphis’ oldest cafe. Specialties include sweet potato pancakes, a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, and breakfast served all day. 540 S. Main. 526-5757. B, L, D (Thurs.-Sat.), X, MRA, $

AUTOMATIC SLIM’S—Longtime Downtown favorite specializes in contemporary American cuisine emphasizing local ingredients; also extensive martini list. 83 S. Second. 525-7948. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$

BARDOG TAVERN—Classic American grill with Italian influence, Bardog offers pasta specialties such as Grandma’s NJ Meatballs, as well as salads, sliders, sandwiches, and daily specials. 73 Monroe. 275-8752. B (Mon.-Fri.), L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$

BEDROCK EATS & SWEETS—Memphis’ only Paleo-centric restaurant, offering such dishes as pot roast, waffles, enchiladas, chicken salad, omelets, and more. Closed for dinner Sun. 327 S. Main. 409-6433.

B, L, D, X, $-$$

BELLE TAVERN—Serving elevated bar food, including a butcher board with a variety of meats and cheeses, as well as daily specials. 117 Barboro Alley. 249-6580. L (Sun.), D, MRA, $

CATHERINE & MARY’S—A variety of pastas, grilled quail, pâté, razor clams, and monkfish are among the dishes served at this Italian restaurant in the Chisca. 272 S. Main. 254-8600. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

CHEF TAM’S UNDERGROUND CAFE—Serves Southern staples with a Cajun twist. Menu items include totchoes, jerk wings, fried chicken, and “muddy” mac and cheese. Closed Sun. and Mon. 668 Union Ave. 207-6182. L, D, X, $-$$

CHEZ PHILIPPE—Classical/contemporary French cuisine with Asian and Nordic influences, presented in a luxurious atmosphere with seasonal tasting menus from chef Keith Clinton. Afternoon tea served Thu-Sun., noon-3:30 p.m. (reservations required). Closed Sun.Tues. The Peabody, 149 Union. 529-4188. D, X, MRA, $$$$

CIMAS—It’s breakfast tacos, shrimp and grits, chilaquiles verdes, and plenty of other Southern and Latin-American twists at the Hyatt Centric. 33 Beale St. 444-3232. B, L, D, X, $-$$$

DINING SYMBOLS

B — breakfast

L — lunch

D — dinner

SB — Sunday brunch

WB — weekend brunch

X— wheelchair accessible MRA — member, Memphis Restaurant Association

$ — under $15 per person without drinks or desserts

$$ — under $25

$$$ — $26-$50

$$$$ — over $50

BEN YAY’S GUMBO SHOP—Spiritual successor to DejaVu, offering fresh and authentic Creole staples. 51 S. Main St., 779-4125. L, D, X, $-$$

BISHOP—Ticer and Hudman’s newest venture at the Central Station Hotel features upscale dishes in a French brasserie style. 545 S. Main St., 524-5247. L, D, X, $$-$$$

BLUEFIN RESTAURANT & SUSHI LOUNGE—Serves Japanese fusion cuisine featuring seafood and steak, with seasonally changing menu; also a sushi bar. 135 S. Main. 528-1010. L, D, X, $-$$

BRASS DOOR IRISH PUB—Irish and New-American cuisine includes such entrees as fish and chips, burgers, shepherd’s pie, all-day Irish breakfast, and more. 152 Madison. 572-1813. L, D, SB, $-$$

BY THE BREWERY—Breakfast and lunch café, with a focus on Southern-style biscuits, salads, and soups. 496 Tennessee St. 310-4341. B, L, $

CAFE KEOUGH—European-style cafe serving quiche, paninis, salads, and more. 12 S. Main. 509-2469. B, L, D, X, $

CAPRICCIO GRILL ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE—Offers prime steaks, fresh seafood (lobster tails, grouper, mahi mahi), pasta, and several Northern Italian specialties. 149 Union, The Peabody. 529-4199. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$$

CAROLINA WATERSHED—This indoor/outdoor eatery, set around silos, features reimagined down-home classics, including fried green tomatoes with smoked catfish, a buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, burgers, and more. Closed Mon.-Thurs. 141 E. Carolina. 321-5553. L, D, WB, $-$$

THE CLOVER CLUB Southern fusion and internationally-inspired small plates at Hotel Indigo. 22 N. B.B. King. B, L, D, X, $-$$

COCOZZA AMERICAN ITALIAN—”The red sauce joint of your dreams” serves up classic Italian-American fare from the owners of Majestic Grille. Closed Sun. 110 Harbor Town Sq. 609-1111. D, X, $-$$ COZY CORNER—Serving up ribs, pork sandwiches, chicken, spaghetti, and more; also homemade banana pudding. Closed Mon. 735 N. Parkway. 527-9158. L, D, $

CURFEW—An elevated sports bar/American tavern concept by Top Chef contestant Fabio Viviani at the Canopy Memphis Downtown hotel. 164 Union Ave. B, L, D, X, $-$$

DOS HERMANOS KITCHEN—Breakfast and lunch concept by Eli Townsend in the renovated Cossitt Library. 33 S. Front. B, L, $

ESCO RESTAURANT AND TAPAS—Shareable dishes, turkey ribs, and seafood mac’n’cheese at this 2 Chainz franchise. 156 Lt. George W. Lee Ave. 808-3726. L, D, $$-$$$

EVELYN & OLIVE—Jamaican/Southern fusion cuisine includes such dishes as Kingston stew fish, Rasta Pasta, and jerk rib-eye. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun.-Mon. 630 Madison. 748-5422. L, D, X , $

FAM—Casual Asian restaurant serves sushi rice bowls, noodle bowls, sushi rolls, and spring rolls. Closed Sun. 149 Madison. 701-6666; 521 S. Highland. 249-2636. L, D, X, $

FEAST & GRAZE—Whipped goat toast, open faced grilled cheese, and other local pantry snacks and charcuterie boards. Closed Sun./Mon. 55 S. Main. 654-5926. L, X, $

FERRARO’S CHEESY CORNER & PIZZERIA—Plenty of pizzas, along with a whole new cheese-inspired menu (fancy grilled cheeses and build-your-own mac and cheese bowls). 111 Jackson. 522-2033. L, D, X, $ FISHBOWL AT THE PYRAMID—Burgers, fish dishes, sandwiches, and more served in a unique “underwater” setting. Bass Pro, 1 Bass Pro Drive, 291-8000. B, L, D, X, $-$$

FLIGHT RESTAURANT & WINE BAR—Serves steaks and seafood, along with such specialties as bison ribeye and Muscovy duck, all matched with appropriate wines. 39 S. Main. 521-8005. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

FLYING FISH—Serves up fried and grilled versions of shrimp, crab, oysters, fish tacos, and catfish; also chicken and burgers. 105 S. Second. 522-8228. L, D, X, $-$$

GARDEN BRUNCH CAFÉ—Fish and grits, steak and eggs, and other upscale takes on Southern brunch classics. 492 S. Main St. 249-7450. B, L, $$

GOOD FORTUNE CO.—Authentic handcrafted noodles, ramen, and dumplings. 361 S. Main. 561-306-4711. L, D, X, $-$$

THE GENRE—Burgers, tenders, catfish, and plenty of vegan options made to order at this music-themed restaurant/lounge. 200 Poplar, Suite 105. 410-8169. B, L, D, X, $-$$

GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN—Serves chicken with signature spicy batter, along with homemade beans, slaw, and pies. 310 S. Front. 527-4877; 3100 Forest Hill Irene (Germantown). 853-6005; 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 373-9111; 730 S. Mendenhall. 767-2323; 505 Highway 70 W., Mason, TN. 901-294-2028. L, D, X, MRA, $

HAPPY MEXICAN—Serves quesadillas, burritos, chimichangas, vegetable and seafood dishes, and more. 385 S. Second. 529-9991; 6080 Primacy Pkwy. 683-0000; 7935 Winchester. 751-5353. L, D, X, $

HIVE BAGEL & DELI Bagels, bagels, and more bagels at this new Downtown deli offering baked goods, sandwiches, and salads. Closed Mon./Tue. 276 S. Front St. 509-2946. B, L, $ HU. ROOF—Rooftop cocktail bar with superb city views serves toasts with a variety of toppings including beef tartare with cured egg, cognac, and capers or riced cauliflower with yellow curry, currants, and almonds. Also salads, fish tacos, and boiled peanut hummus. 79 Madison. 333-1229. D, X, $ HUSTLE & DOUGH BAKERY & CAFE—Flaky, baked breakfast goodness every day with fresh pastries, sandwiches, and more at Arrive Hotel. 477 S. Main St., 701-7577. B, L, X, $

IBIS—Upscale cocktail bar serving sharable small plates, including lobster rolls, crab cakes, and lamb meatballs, alongside select larger entrees. Closed Mon.-Wed. 314 S. Main. 748-5187. D, X, $-$$

INKWELL—Unique craft concoctions, charcuterie plates, flatbreads, and sandwiches at this dope cocktail bar. Closed Mon.-Tue. 631 Madison Ave. 334-9411. D, X, $-$$

ITTA BENA—Southern and Cajun-American cuisine served here, conveniently located above B.B. King’s Blues Club on Beale St.; specialties are duck and waffles and shrimp and grits, along with steaks, chops, seafood, and pasta. 145 Beale St. 578-3031. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

KING & UNION BAR GROCERY—Classic Southern favorites including catfish plate, pimento cheese, po-boys, chicken & waffles. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with cocktails served with flair and favorite Memphis beers. Locally made confections available in the grocery. 185 Union Ave. 523-8500. B, L, D, $-$$

KOOKY CANUCK—Offers prime rib, catfish, and burgers, including the 4-lb. “Kookamonga”; also late-night menu. 87 S. Second. 578-9800; 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy. 1-800-2453 L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$

LITTLE BETTIE—New Haven-style pizzas and snacks from the AndrewMichael team at Wiseacre’s Downtown location. 398 S. B.B. King Blvd. 334-9411. L, D, $-$$

THE LITTLE TEA SHOP—Downtown institution serves up Southern comfort cooking, including meatloaf and such veggies as turnip greens, yams, okra, and tomatoes. Closed until further notice. 69 Monroe. 525-6000, L, X, $

THE LOBBYIST AT THE CHISCA—Chef Jimmy Gentry brings his farm-totable ideas Downtown, with seasonal, and sometimes weekly, new menus, and an emphasis on creative vegetable dishes. Closed Sun. 272 S. Main St., Suite 101. 249-2170. D, $$-$$$$

LOCAL—Entrees with a focus on locally sourced products include lobster mac-and-cheese and rib-eye patty melt; menu differs by location. 95 S. Main. 473-9573. L, D, WB, X, $-$$

LOFLIN YARD—Beer garden and restaurant serves vegetarian fare and smoked-meat dishes, including beef brisket and pork tenderloin, cooked on a custom-made grill. Closed Mon.-Tues. 7 W. Carolina. 249-3046. L (Sat. and Sun.), D, MRA, X, $-$$

LONGSHOT—A wide variety of international fusion dishes and craft cocktails with a side of shuffleboard. 477 S. Main. D, $-$$

THE LOOKOUT AT THE PYRAMID—Serves seafood and Southern fare, including cornmeal-fried oysters, sweet tea brined chicken, and elk chops. 1 Bass Pro Dr. 620-4600/291-8200. L, D, X, $-$$$

LUCY’S—Hu. Hotel’s downstairs diner serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Start your day with a Hu. breakfast burrito, or Lucy’s Burger for a late-night bite 3 S. Main. 333-1200. B, L, D, X, $-$$

LUNA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE—Serving a limited menu of breakfast and lunch items. Dinner entrees include citrus glaze salmon and Cajun stuffed chicken. 179 Madison (Hotel Napoleon). 526-0002. B, D (Mon.-Sat.), X, $-$$$

MACIEL’S—Entrees include tortas, fried taco plates, quesadillas, chorizo and pastor soft tacos, salads, and more. Downtown closed Sun. 45 S. Main. 526-0037, X, MRA, $

THE MAJESTIC GRILLE—Features aged steaks, fresh seafood, and such specialties as roasted chicken and grilled pork tenderloin; offers a pre-theater menu and classic cocktails. Well-stocked bar. 145 S. Main. 5228555. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$

We celebrate our city’s community table and the people who grow, cook, and eat the best Memphis food at

McEWEN’S—Southern/American cuisine with international flavors; specialties include steak and seafood, sweet potato-crusted catfish with macaroni and cheese, and more. Closed Sun., Monroe location. 120 Monroe. 527-7085; 1110 Van Buren (Oxford). 662-234-7003. L, D, SB (Oxford only), X, MRA, $$-$$$

MESQUITE CHOP HOUSE—The focus here is on steaks, including prime fillet, rib-eyes, and prime-aged New York strip; also, some seafood options. 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-890-2467; 88 Union. 527-5337. 249-5661. D, SB, X, $$-$$$

MOLLIE FONTAINE LOUNGE—Specializes in tapas (small plates) featuring global cuisine. Closed Sun.-Tues. 679 Adams Ave. 524-1886. D, X, MRA, $

MOMMA’S ROADHOUSE—This diner and dive at Highway 55 serves up smoked wings, burgers, and beer, among other solid bar food options 855 Kentucky. 207-5111. L, D, MRA, $

NEW WING ORDER The award-winning food truck cooks up its signature hot wings at its first physical location, at Ghost River on Beale. Closed Mon/Tue. 341 Beale. L, D, $-$$

THE NINE THAI & SUSHI—Serving authentic Thai dishes, including curries, as well as a variety of sushi rolls. Closed for lunch Sat. and Sun. 121 Union. 208-8347. L, D, X, $-$$

PAPER PLATE PAVILION—Popular food truck serves up brisket mac and cheese and more favorites at Tom Lee Park. Riverside Dr. L, X, $-$$

PAULETTE’S—Presents fine dining with a Continental flair, including such entrees as filet Paulette with butter cream sauce and crabmeat and spinach crepes; also changing daily specials and great views. River Inn. 50 Harbor Town Square. 260-3300. B, L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$

PENNY’S NITTY GRITTY—Coach Penny Hardaway brings plenty of Southern flavors and lots of customizable grits. 220 S. B.B. King Blvd. 334-5950. B, L, D, $$-$$$

PRETTY TACO Fast casual tacos with a Memphis twist, like the Soul Burger tacos. Closed Sun./Mon. 265 S. Front St. 509-8120. L, D, $-$$

PROMISE South Main soul food restaurant (think turkey necks, meatloaf, fried catfish) using old family recipes. Closed Sun./Mon. 412 S. Main. L, D, $-$$

RAW GIRLS—Raw and hot plant-based food alongside cold-pressed juices made from seasonal, locally grown sources. Closed Sun. 150 Peabody Pl., Suite 118. 207-5463. B, L, D, $-$$

RENDEZVOUS, CHARLES VERGOS’—Menu items include barbecued ribs, cheese plates, skillet shrimp, red beans and rice, and Greek salads. Closed Sun.-Mon. 52 S. Second. 523-2746. L (Fri.-Sat.), D, X, $-$$

SABOR CARIBE—Serving up “Caribbean flavors” with dishes from Colombia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Closed Sunday. 662 Madison. 949-8100. L, D, X, $

SAGE—Restaurant and lounge features daily lunch specials and tapas with such dishes as braised short ribs, teriyaki pulled pork, and the Sage burger made with Angus beef, avocado mash, fried egg, and flash-fried sage. 94 S. Main. 672-7902. L, D, WB, X, $-$$

SILLY GOOSE LOUNGE—Gourmet, wood-fired pizzas and hand-crafted cocktails at this Downtown restaurant and lounge. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111. 435-6915. L, D, X, $

SOUTH MAIN SUSHI & GRILL—Serving sushi, nigiri, and more. 520 S. Main. 249-2194. L, D, X, $

SOB—Elevated gastropub that serves favorites like general Tso’s cauliflower or duck fried rice. 345 S. Main. 526-0388; 5040 Sanderlin (East Memphis). 818-0821; 1329 W. Poplar Ave. 286-1360. L, D, WB, X , $-$$

SOUTH POINT GROCERY—Fresh and delicious sandwiches made to order at Downtown’s new grocery market. 136 Webster Ave. B, L, D, X, $

SUGAR GRITS—Who said breakfast has to be in the morning? The Westmorelands offer grits and other breakfast goodness all day long, in addition to other Southern-style lunch and dinner options. 150 Peabody Pl., Suite 111. 249-5206. B, L, D, X, $-$$

SUNRISE MEMPHIS—Serves breakfast all day, including housemade biscuits, frittatas, kielbasa or boudin plates, and breakfast platters. 670 Jefferson. 552-3144; 5469 Poplar Ave. (East Memphis).

844-6117. B, L, X, MRA, $

SUPPER CLUB ON 2ND—Fine dining and urban bistro styles collide at this snazzy, chic restaurant, featuring gold-encrusted tomahawk steaks, a deep sea lobster dawg, fancy cocktails, and plenty of other elevated goodies. 85 S. 2nd St. 453-6334. D, WB, X, $$-$$$

TALK SHOP—Southern-style cuisine, a breakfast bar, and plenty of other cool dishes and drinks at the Caption by Hyatt. 245 S. Front St. B, L, D, X, $-$$

TERRACE—Creative American and Continental cuisine includes such dishes as filet mignon, beef or lamb sliders, chicken satay, and mushroom pizzetta. Rooftop, River Inn of Harbor Town, 50 Harbor Town Square. 260-3366. D, X, MRA, $$

TEXAS DE BRAZIL—Serves beef, pork, lamb, and chicken dishes, and Brazilian sausage; also a salad bar with extensive toppings. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 103. 526-7600. L (Wed.-Fri.), D, WB, X, $$-$$$

TUG’S—Famous for New Orleans gumbo, fabulous burgers, fried thin catfish, and specialty pancakes. Now serving Grisanti Crafted Pizza. 51 Harbor Town Square. 260-3344. B, L, D, WB, X, $$-$$$

THE VAULT—Oysters, shrimp beignets, flatbreads, stuffed cornish hen, and Smash Burger featured on “Late Nite Eats” are among the dishes offered at this Creole/Italian fusion eatery. 124 G.E. Patterson. 591-8000. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$

WAHLBURGERS WILD—Wahlburgers brings its classic menu, but with a few gamey twists at the Bass Pro Pyramid. 1 Bass Pro Drive. B, L, D, X, $-$$

WESTY’S—Extensive menu includes a variety of wild rice dishes, sandwiches, plate lunches, and hot fudge pie. 346 N. Main. 543-3278. L, D, X, $

WINGMAN—Downtown lounge and hookah bar offering wings galore with ten signature sauces, and plenty of other goodies. 143 Madison Ave. L, D, WB, X, $-$$

MIDTOWN (INCLUDES THE MEDICAL CENTER)

ABNER’S FAMOUS CHICKEN—Fried chicken tenders and dipping sauces galore at this Mid-South staple. 1350 Concourse Ave, Suite 137. 425-2597; (East Memphis) 1591 Poplar Ave. 509-3351; (Cordova) 1100 N. Germantown Pkwy. 754-5355. L, D, $-$$

ABYSSINIA RESTAURANT—Ethiopian/Mediterranean menu includes beef, chicken, lamb, fish entrees, and vegetarian dishes; also a lunch buffet. 2600 Poplar. 321-0082. L, D, X, $-$$

ALCHEMY/ SALT|SOY—Handcrafted cocktails and local craft beers with the Asian fusion dining concept from Salt|Soy. 940 S. Cooper. 726-4444. D, SB, X, $-$$

ART BAR—Inventive cocktails feature locally foraged ingredients; snacks include house-cured salt & vinegar potato chips and herb-roasted olives. Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Avenue #280. 507-8030. D, X, $

ASHTAR GARDEN—Southern twists on classic brunch dishes, and plenty of cocktails. Closed Mon.-Wed. 898 Cooper St. 4431514. L, D, $-$$

BABALU TACOS & TAPAS—This eatery dishes up Spanish-style tapas with Southern flair; also taco and enchilada of the day; specials change daily. 2115 Madison. 274-0100; 6450 Poplar, 410-8909. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$

BACK DO / MI YARD—A revamped patio space behind The Beauty Shop features rotisserie meats and fishes via Brazilian-style outdoor grill. Dinner Wed.-Sat., weather permitting. 966 S. Cooper, 272-7111. D, X, $$

BAIN BARBECUE & BAKERY—Brian Bain’s popular Texas-style barbecue is back, alongside an assortment of baked goods. 993 S. Cooper. 310-4141. B, L, X, $-$$

BAR DKDC—Features an ever-changing menu of international “street food,” from Thai to Mexican, Israeli to Indian, along with specialty cocktails. 964 S. Cooper. 272-0830. D, X , MRA, $

BAR KEOUGH—It’s old-school eats and cocktails at the new CooperYoung neighborhood corner bar by Kevin Keough. 247 Cooper St. D, X , $ BAR-B-Q SHOP—Dishes up barbecued ribs, spaghetti, bologna, other classics. Closed Sun. 1782 Madison. 272-1277. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

BARI RISTORANTE ENOTECA—Authentic Southeastern Italian cuisine (Puglia) emphasizes lighter entrees. Serves fresh fish and beef dishes and a homemade soup of the day. 524 S. Cooper. 722-2244. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

BARKSDALE RESTAURANT—Old-school diner serving breakfast and Southern plate lunches. 237 S. Cooper. 722-2193. B, L, D, X, $ BAYOU BAR & GRILL—New Orleans fare at this Overton Square eatery includes jambalaya, gumbo, catfish Acadian, shrimp dishes, red beans and rice, and muffalettas. 2094 Madison. 278-8626. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$

BEAUTY SHOP—Modern American cuisine with international flair served in a former beauty shop. Serves steaks, salads, pasta, and seafood, including pecan-crusted golden sea bass. Perennial “Best Brunch” winner. Closed for dinner Sunday. 966 S. Cooper. 272-7111. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

BOSCOS—Tennessee’s first craft brewery serves a variety of freshly brewed beers as well as wood-fired oven pizzas, pasta, seafood, steaks, and sandwiches. 2120 Madison. 432-2222. L, D, SB (with live jazz), X, MRA, $-$$

BOUNTY ON BROAD—Offering family-style dining, Bounty serves small plates and family-sized platters, with such specialties as chicken-fried quail and braised pork shank. 2519 Broad. 410-8131. L (Sat. and Sun.), D (Mon.-Sat.), SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

BROADWAY PIZZA—Serving a variety of pizzas, including the Broadway Special, as well as sandwiches, salads, wings, and soul-food specials. 2581 Broad. 454-7930; 627 S. Mendenhall. 207-1546. L, D, X, $-$$

CAFE 1912—French/American bistro owned by culinary pioneer Glenn Hays serving such seafood entrees as seared sea scallops with charred cauliflower purée and chorizo cumin sauce; also crepes, salads, and onion soup gratinée. 243 S. Cooper. 722-2700. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

CAFE ECLECTIC—Omelets and chicken and waffles are among menu items, along with quesadillas, sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. Menu varies by location. 603 N. McLean. 725-1718; 111 Harbor Town Square. 590-4645. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $

CAFE OLÉ—This eatery specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine; one specialty is the build-your-own quesadilla. 959 S. Cooper. 343-0103. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$

CAFE PALLADIO—Serves gourmet salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts in a tea room inside the antiques shop. Closed Sun. 2169 Central. 278-0129. L, X, $

CAMEO—Three longtime Memphis bartenders join forces for creative cocktails, cheese boards, snacks, and Sunday brunch. 1835 Union Ave., Suite 3. 305-6511. D, SB, $-$$

CELTIC CROSSING—Specializes in Irish and American pub fare. Entrees include shepherd’s pie, shrimp and sausage coddle, and fish and chips. 903 S. Cooper. 274-5151. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$

CENTRAL BBQ—Serves ribs, smoked hot wings, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken, turkey, nachos, and portobello sandwiches. Offers both pork and beef barbecue. 2249 Central Ave. 272-9377; 4375 Summer Ave. 767-4672; 147 E. Butler. 672-7760 ; 6201 Poplar. 417-7962. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

COMPLICATED PILGRIM—Quick serve coffee shop, bar, and restaurant all in one at The Memphian hotel. 21 S. Cooper St. 601-909-5820. B, L, D, $-$$

THE COVE—Nautical-themed restaurant and bar serving oysters, pizzas, and more. The Stoner Pie, with tamales and fritos, is a popular dish. 2559 Broad. 730-0719. L, D, $

THE CRAZY NOODLE—Korean noodle dishes range from bibam beef noodle with cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, to curry chicken noodle; also rice cakes served in a flavorful sauce. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 2015 Madison. 272-0928. L, D, X, $

EAT AT BLACK LODGE—High-end breakfasts, like waffle grilled cheese sandwiches, nacho and tater-tot “tot-chos,” and other entrees like sweet spicy thai pork at the longtime video store. Now with Masquerade cocktail bar. Closed Mon./Tue. 405 N. Cleveland. 672-7905. L, D, X, $-$$

ECCO—Mediterranean-inspired specialties range from rib-eye steak to seared scallops to housemade pastas and a grilled vegetable plate; also a Saturday brunch. Closed Sun.-Mon. 1585 Overton Park. 410-8200. B, L, D, X, $-$$

FABIOLA’S KITCHEN—Longtime caterer Fabiola Francis serves up burgers, tacos, fish, and much more. 1353 Jackson Ave. B, L, $

FARM BURGER—Serves grass-fed, freshly ground, locally sourced burgers; also available with chicken, pork, or veggie quinoa patties, with such toppings as aged white cheddar, kale coleslaw, and roasted beets. 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 175. 800-1851. L, D, X, $

THE FARMER AT RAILGARTEN—Farmer classics include pan-seared catfish, gulf shrimp and grits, or a Gibson donut bread pudding. Closed Mon./ Tue. 2166 Central. 313-0087. D, X, $-$$

FINO’S FROM THE HILL—Italian deli offers old favorites such as the Acquisto as well as a new breakfast menu Germantown location paired with Happy Glaze Donuts. 1853 Madison. 272-FINO; 7781 Farmington Blvd. (Germantown). B, L, D, X, $

FLAME RAMEN—Traditional Japanese ramen restaurant serving up bowls of noodles in Midtown. 1838 Union Ave. 779-8666; 61 S. Second St., Suite 160 (Downtown). D, $-$$

FLIP SIDE—Pinball meets pub in the Crosstown neighborhood, with plenty of games alongside a Caribbean- and Latin-inspired menu. Closed Mon. 1349 Autumn Ave. L, D, X, $-$$

FRIDA’S—Mexican cuisine and Tex-Mex standards, including chimichangas, enchiladas, and fajitas; seafood includes shrimp and tilapia. 1718 Madison. 244-6196. L, D, X, $-$$

GLOBAL CAFÉ—This international food hall hosts three immigrant/refugee food entrepreneurs serving Venezuelan, Sudanese, and Syrian cuisines. Samosas, shawarma, and kabobs are among the menu items. Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 157. L, D, X, MRA, $

GOLDEN INDIA—Northern Indian specialties include tandoori chicken as well as lamb, beef, shrimp, and vegetarian dishes. 2097 Madison. 728-5111. L, D, X, $-$$

GROWLERS—Sports bar and eatery serves standard bar fare in addition to pasta, tacos, chicken and waffles, and light options. 1911 Poplar. 244-7904. L, D, X, $-$$

GUAC FRESH MEX—Authentic Mexican cuisine and four types of guacamole. Closed Sun. 782 Washington Ave. 587-4100. L, D, X, $ HATTIE B’S—Fried chicken spot features “hot chicken” with a variety of heat levels; from no heat to “shut the cluck up” sauce. Sides include greens, pimento mac-and-cheese, and black-eyed pea salad. 596 S. Cooper. 424-5900. L, D, X, $

HUEY’S—This family-friendly restaurant offers 13 different burgers, a variety of sandwiches, and delicious soups and salads. 1927 Madison. 726-4372; 1771 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 754-3885; 77 S. Second (Downtown). 527-2700; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-4455; 7090 Malco Blvd. (Southaven). 662-349-7097; 7825 Winchester. 624-8911; 4872 Poplar. 682-7729; 7677 Farmington Blvd. (Germantown). 318-3030; 8570 Highway 51 N. (Millington). 873-5025. L, D, X, MRA, $

IMAGINE VEGAN CAFE—Dishes at this fully vegan restaurant range from salads and sandwiches to full dinners, including eggplant parmesan and “beef” tips and rice; breakfast all day Sat. and Sun. 2158 Young. 654-3455. L, D, WB, X, $

INDIA PALACE—Tandoori chicken, lamb shish kabobs, and chicken tikka masala are among the entrees; also, vegetarian options and a daily all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. 1720 Poplar. 278-1199. L, D, X, $-$$

INSPIRE COMMUNITY CAFE—Serving breakfast all day, in addition to quesadillas, rice bowls, and more for lunch and dinner. 510 Tillman, Suite 110. 509-8640. B, L, D, X, $

KNIFEBIRD—Neighborhood wine bar boasts plenty of flights, cocktails, and mocktails alongside bruschetta and charcuterie boards. Closed Sun. 2155 Central Ave. 748-5425. D, $-$$$

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM—Serves such Southern cuisine as po’boys, shrimp and grits, and wood-fired pizzas. 2119 Madison. 2075097. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$

LOS COMALES—Authentic Mexican cuisine, daily specials, and strong margaritas. 1322 Madison. 440-8393; 345 Madison Ave (Downtown). 590-4524; 2860 S. Perkins (East Memphis). 369-0528. L, D, X, $-$$

THE LIQUOR STORE—Renovated liquor store turned diner serves all-day breakfast, sandwiches, and entrees such as Salisbury steak and smothered pork chops. 2655 Broad. 405-5477; 669 S. Mendenhall Rd. (East Memphis). B, L, D, X, $-$$

MAXIMO’S ON BROAD—Serving a tapas menu that features creative fusion cuisine; entrees include veggie paella and fish of the day. Closed Mon. 2617 Broad Ave. 452-1111. D, SB, X, $-$$

MEMPHIS PIZZA CAFE—Homemade pizzas are specialties; also serves sandwiches, calzones, and salads. 2087 Madison. 726-5343; 5061 Park Ave. 684-1306; 7604 W. Farmington (Germantown). 7532218; 797 W. Poplar (Collierville). 861-7800; 5627 Getwell (Southaven). 662-536-1364. L, D, X, $-$$

MEMPHIS WHISTLE—Cocktails, cocktails, and even more delicious cocktails alongside burgers, sandwiches, and other tasty snacks. 2299 Young Ave. Closed Mon.-Tue. 236-7136. D, X, $-$$

MOLLY’S LA CASITA—Homemade tamales, fish tacos, a vegetarian combo, and bacon-wrapped shrimp are a few of the specialties. 2006 Madison. 726-1873. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

PARISH GROCERY—Shrimp? Roast beef? Oysters? Whatever type of po’boy you want, the New Orleans-themed eatery has got it. Closed Monday. 916 S. Cooper St. 207-4347. L, D, X, $-$$

PAYNE’S BAR-B-QUE—Opened in 1972, this family-owned barbecue joint serves ribs, smoked sausage, and chopped pork sandwiches with a standout mustard slaw and homemade sauce. About as down-to-earth as it gets. 1762 Lamar. 272-1523. L, D, $-$$

THE PUBLIC BISTRO—Knifebird owners’ full-service American bistro with a menu by chef Gannon Hamilton. 937 S. Cooper St. Closed Sun. 509-2113. D, $-$$

ROBATA RAMEN & YAKITORI BAR—Serves ramen noodle bowls and Yakitori skewers as well as rice and noodle dishes. 2116 Madison. 410-8290. L, D, X, $

SABROSURA—Serves Mexican and Cuban fare, including arroz tapada de pollo and steak Mexican. Closed Sun. 782 Washington. 421-8180. L, D, X, $-$$

SALTWATER CRAB—Offers an array of seafood dishes including boils with blue crab, crab legs, lobster tails, and more, and specialty sushi like the Dynamite or Royal King rolls, in addition to signature sangrias and cocktails. 2059 Madison Ave. 922-5202. L, D, X, $$

THE SECOND LINE—Kelly English brings “relaxed Creole cuisine” to his newest eatery; serves a variety of po’boys and such specialties as barbecue shrimp, andouille shrimp, and pimento cheese fries. 2144 Monroe. 590-2829. L, D, WB, X, $-$$

SEKISUI—Japanese fusion cuisine, fresh sushi bar, grilled meats and seafood, California rolls, and vegetarian entrees. Poplar/ Perkins location’s emphasis is on Pacific Rim cuisine. Menu and hours vary at each location. 25 Belvedere. 725-0005; 1884 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 309-8800; 4724 Poplar. 767-7770; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-0622; 2990 Kirby-Whitten (Bartlett). 377-2727; 6696 Poplar. 747-0001. L, D, X, $-$$$

SHROOMLICIOUS MEALS Tasty meals and snacks — wings, burgers, crunchwraps — made from mushrooms. Closed Sun.-Tue. 394 N. Watkins. 205-8413. L, D, $-$$

SLICE MIDTOWN—Serving New York-style pizza as well as subs and pasta dishes (formerly known as Little Italy). 1495 Union. 725-0280; L, D, X, $-$$

SOUL FISH CAFE—Serving Southern-style soul food, tacos, and po’boys, including catfish, crawfish, oyster, shrimp, chicken, and smoked pork tenderloin. 862 S. Cooper. 725-0722; 3160 Village Shops Dr. (Germantown). 755-6988; 4720 Poplar. 590-0323. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ STICKEM—Brick and mortar location for the popular food truck, which offers grilled meat on a stick. 1788 Madison. Closed Sunday. 474-7214. L, D, X, $

TAMBOLI’S PASTA & PIZZA—Pasta-maker Miles Tamboli whips up Italian soul food with seasonal menus featuring dishes like crispy

fried chicken or creamy bucatini with pecorino cheese. Serves dinner Tues.-Sat. 1761 Madison. 410-8866. D, X, $-$$

TAKASHI BISTRO—Fusion restaurant with an open kitchen that lets customers watch chefs prepare a variety of Japanese and Thai cuisine. 1680 Union Ave., Suite 109. 800-2936. L, D, $-$$.

TJ MULLIGAN’S—Cold drinks, comfort food, and plenty of live entertainment. 2021 Madison. 725-0770; 1817 Kirby Pkwy (East Memphis). 755-2481; 8070 Trinity Rd. #1 (Cordova). 756-4480; 2821 N. Houston Levee Rd (Lakeland). 377-9997. L, D, X, $-$$

TONICA—Paella and other Spanish-inspired dishes with an Italian touch, alongside an extensive list of gin and tonics. 1545 Overton Park. Closed Mon.-Wed. D, X, $-$$

TSUNAMI—Features Pacific Rim cuisine (Asia, Australia, South Pacific, etc.); also a changing “small plate” menu. Chef Ben Smith is a Cooper-Young pioneer. Specialties include Asian nachos and roasted sea bass. Closed Sunday. 928 S. Cooper. 274-2556. D, X,, MRA, $$-$$$

TUYEN’S ASIAN BISTRO—A variety of Asian dishes from the minds and chefs behind Saigon Le. Closed Sun. 288 N. Cleveland. L, D, X, $-$$

VIBE FOODS—By way of Colorado, superfood bar serves up clean and delicious meals and juices. Closed Sun. 1350 Concourse Ave. 572-1127; 3139 Poplar Ave. (East Memphis). 207-2535. B, L, X, $-$$

ZINNIE’S—Dive bar classic reopens with a makeover and signature Zinnaloni sandwich. 1688 Madison. 726-5004. L, D, X, $

SOUTH MEMPHIS (INCLUDES PARKWAY VILLAGE, FOX MEADOWS, SOUTH MEMPHIS, WINCHESTER, AND WHITEHAVEN)

BALA’S BISTRO—Authentic West African cuisine available to order or by the pound, alongside traditional American dishes and an extensive vegan menu. 4571 Elvis Presley Blvd. 509-3024. L, D, $-$$

CACHE 42 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS—Elevated fine dining (think golden rack of lamb or lobster queso) and cocktail lounge at MoneyBagg Yo’s restaurant; menu by chef Daris Leatherwood. Brunch and lunch options coming soon. 4202 Hacks Cross Rd., Suite 121. 494-5458. D, $-$$

COLETTA’S—Longtime eatery serves such specialties as homemade ravioli, lasagna, and pizza with barbecue or traditional toppings. 1063 S. Parkway E. 948-7652; 2850 Appling Rd. (Bartlett). 383-1122. L, D, X, $-$$

CURRY BOWL—Specializes in Southern Indian cuisine, serving Tandoori chicken, biryani, tikka masala, and more. Weekend buffet. 4141 Hacks Cross Rd. 207-6051. L, D, $

DELTA’S KITCHEN—The premier restaurant at The Guest House at Graceland serves Elvis-inspired dishes — like Nutella and Peanut Butter Crepes for breakfast — and upscale Southern cuisine — including lamb chops and shrimp and grits — for dinner. 3600 Elvis Presley Blvd. 443-3000. B, D, X, $-$$$

DWJ KOREAN BARBECUE—This authentic Korean eatery serves kimbap, barbecued beef short ribs, rice and noodles dishes, and hot pots and stews. 3750 Hacks Cross Rd., Suite 101. 746-8057; 2156 Young. 207-6204. L, D, $-$$

FABULOUS FLAVORS & FRIENDS ”The Candy Lady” Precious Thompson Jones comes up with a little bit of everything: omelettes, quesadillas, t-bones and waffles, and plenty of soul food. 2063 E. Brooks Rd. 314-0735. L, D, $

THE FOUR WAY—Legendary soul-food establishment dishing up such entrees as fried and baked catfish, chicken, and turkey and dressing, along with a host of vegetables and desserts. Around the corner from the legendary Stax Studio. Closed Mon. 998 Mississippi Blvd. 507-1519. L, D, $

HERNANDO’S HIDEAWAY–No one cares how late it gets; not at Hernando’s Hideaway. Live music, killer happy hour, and plenty of bar fare at this South Memphis hang. 3210 Old Hernando Rd. 917-982-1829. L, D, $ INTERSTATE BAR-B-Q—Specialties include chopped pork-shoulder sandwiches, ribs, hot wings, spaghetti, chicken, and turkey. 2265 S. Third. 775-2304; 150 W. Stateline Rd. (Southaven). 662-393-5699. L, D, X, $-$$

JIM & SAMELLA’S—It’s a revolving menu of soul food delight from Chef Talbert Fleming, with anything from Southern ribs to fried tamales. 841 Bullington Ave. 265-8761. L, D, X, $

LEONARD’S—Serves wet and dry ribs, barbecue sandwiches, spaghetti, catfish, homemade onion rings, and lemon icebox pie; also a lunch buffet. 5465 Fox Plaza. 360-1963. L, X, $-$$

MARLOWE’S—In addition to its signature barbecue and ribs, Marlowe’s serves Southern-style steaks, chops, lasagna, and more. 4381 Elvis Presley Blvd. 332-4159. D, X, MRA, $-$$

UNCLE LOU’S FRIED CHICKEN—Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for good reason: fried chicken (mild, hot, or home-style); jumbo burgers four patties high; strawberry shortcake, and assorted fruit pies. 3633 Millbranch. 332-2367. L, D, X, MRA, $

SUMMER/BERCLAIR/ RALEIGH/BARTLETT

901 HOT POT & KOREAN BBQ—All-you-can-eat hot pot and Korean BBQ, from short ribs to garlic shrimp. 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy. 512-4963. L, D, X, $$-$$$

BISCUITS & JAMS—Biscuits, waffles, French toast, and plenty of sharables at this Bartlett breakfast spot. Closed Mon./Tue. 5806 Stage Rd. 672-7905. B, L, X, $

BRYANT’S BREAKFAST—Slingin’ famous biscuits, plate lunches, chicken fried steak, and other breakfast classics since 1968. 3965 Summer Ave. 324-7494. B, L, $

CEVICHERIA AND GRILL CHILEMON—Ceviche, of course, but also plenty of other postres, aperitivos, and mixed grilled meat and seafood feasts. Closed Sun. 4509 Summer Ave. 672-7905. L, D, $

CHEF FLAVAS AND BARTLETT BREAKFAST FACTORY ”Flavaful” sandwiches, soups, pastas, and more from the makers of the popular local spinach artichoke dip. Traditional breakfast options served by Bartlett Breakfast Factory. Closed Sun./Mon. 6301 Stage Rd. 779-2200. B, L, D, X, $-$$

DIM SUM KING—All the best from a selection of authentic Chinese dishes: roasted duck, sizzling hot plate, Cantonese BBQ, and plenty more. 5266 Summer Ave. #65. 766-0831. L, D, X, $-$$

ELWOOD’S SHACK—Casual comfort food includes tacos, pizza, and sandwiches. Specialties include meats smoked in-house (chicken, turkey, brisket, pork), barbecue pizza, and steelhead trout tacos. 4523 Summer. 7619898; 4040 Park Ave. 754-2520. B, L, D, X, $

EXLINES’ BEST PIZZA—Serves pizza, Italian dinners, sandwiches, and salads. 6250 Stage Rd. 382-3433; 2935 Austin Peay. 388-4711; 2801 Kirby Parkway. 754-0202; 7730 Wolf River Blvd. (Germantown). 753-4545; 531 W. Stateline Rd. 662-342-4544. L, D, X , MRA, $

FANATIC SPORTS BAR AND WING FANATIC—Sports bar and hot wing joint folded into one, with plenty of screens to watch the big game. 2857 Appling Way. 695-3243. L, D, $-$$

LA TAQUERIA GUADALUPANA—Fajitas and quesadillas are just a few of the authentic Mexican entrees offered here. A bona-fide Memphis institution. 4818 Summer. 685-6857; 5848 Winchester. 3654992. L, D, X, $

LOTUS—Authentic Vietnamese-Asian fare, including lemon-grass chicken and shrimp, egg rolls, Pho soup, and spicy Vietnamese vermicelli. 4970 Summer. 682-1151. D, X, $

MORTIMER’S—Contemporary American entrees include trout almondine, chicken dishes, and hand-cut steaks; also sandwiches, salads, and daily/nightly specials. A Memphis landmark since the Knickerbocker closed. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 590 N. Perkins. 761-9321. L, D, X, $-$$

NAGASAKI INN—Chicken, steak, and lobster are among the main courses; meal is cooked at your table. 3951 Summer. 454-0320. D, X, $$

NAM KING—General Tso’s chicken, hot and sour soup, and homemade chicken wings are back at the longtime Raleigh Chinese eatery. 3624 Austin Peay Highway, #3. 373-4411. L, D, $-$$

ÓRALE TACOS & BAKERY—Tacos, enchiladas, and other traditional Southern Mexican dishes alongside baked pan dulces. 2204 Whitten Rd. 571-1786. B, L, D, $-$$

PANDA GARDEN—Sesame chicken and broccoli beef are among the Mandarin and Cantonese entrees; also seafood specials and fried rice. Closed for lunch Saturday. 3735 Summer. 323-4819. L, D, X, $-$$

QUEEN OF SHEBA—Featuring Middle Eastern favorites and Yemeni dishes such as lamb haneeth and saltah. 4792 Summer. 207-4174. L, D, $

SIDE PORCH STEAK HOUSE—In addition to steak, the menu includes chicken, pork chops, and fish entrees; homemade rolls are a specialty. Closed Sun./Mon. 5689 Stage Rd. 377-2484. D, X, $-$$

TORTILLERIA LA UNICA—Individual helping of Mexican street food, including hefty tamales, burritos, tortas, and sopes. 5015 Summer Ave. 685-0097. B, L, D, X, $

UNIVERSITY NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICT (INCLUDES CHICKASAW GARDENS AND HIGHLAND STRIP)

A-TAN—Serves Chinese and Japanese hibachi cuisine, complete with sushi bar. A specialty is Four Treasures with garlic sauce. 3445 Poplar, Suite 17, University Center. 452-4477. L, D, X, $-$$$

THE BLUFF—New Orleans-inspired menu includes alligator bites, nachos topped with crawfish and andouille, gumbo, po’boys, and fried seafood platters. 535 S. Highland. 454-7771. L, D, X, $-$$

BROTHER JUNIPER’S—This little cottage is a breakfast mecca, offering specialty omelets, including the open-faced San Diegan omelet; also daily specials, and homemade breads and pastries. Closed Mon. 3519 Walker. 324-0144. B, X, $

CELEBRITY’S SOUL FOOD—Classic soul food dishes coupled with a Hollywood-esque VIP experience. 431 S. Highland St., Ste 105. L, D, X, $$

CHAR RESTAURANT—Specializing in modern Southern cuisine, this eatery offers homestyle sides, charbroiled steaks, and fresh seafood. 431 S. Highland, Suite 120. 249-3533. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$

DERAE RESTAURANT Ethiopian and Mediterranean fare includes fuul, or fava beans in spices and yogurt, goat meat and rice, and garlic chicken over basmati rice with cilantro chutney; also salmon and tilapia. Closed Monday. 923 S. Highland. 552-3992. B, L, D, $-$$

EL PORTON—Fajitas, quesadillas, and steak ranchero are just a few of the menu items. 2095 Merchants Row (Germantown). 754-4268; 8361 Highway 64. 380-7877; 3448 Poplar (Poplar Plaza). 452-7330; 1805 N. Germantown Parkway (Cordova). 624-9358; 1016 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-5770. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

MEDALLION—Offers steaks, seafood, chicken, and pasta entrees. Closed for dinner Sunday. 3700 Central, Holiday Inn (Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality). 678-1030. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

OPEN FLAME—This authentic Persian and Mediterranean eatery specializes in shish kebabs as well as kosher and halal fare. 3445 Poplar. 207-4995. L, D, X, $

PLANT BASED HEAT All of your favorite Southern-style recipes, but deliciously transformed into a vegan format. Specialties include the spicy fye junt burger, or the chopped ‘n’ smoked bbq jackfruit sandwich. Closed Sun. 669 S. Highland St.; 363 S. Front St. (Downtown). L, D, $

SAM’S DELI—Everything from sandwiches to bibimbap bowls at this local favorite. Closed Mon./Tue. 643 S. Highland St. 454-5582. L, D, $

EAST MEMPHIS (INCLUDES POPLAR/I-240)

ACRE—Features seasonal modern American cuisine in an avantegarde setting using locally sourced products; also small plates and enclosed garden patio. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 690 S. Perkins. 818-2273. L, D, X, $$-$$$

AGAVOS COCINA & TEQUILA—Camaron de Tequila, tamales, kabobs, and burgers made with a blend of beef and chorizo are among the offerings at this tequila-centric restaurant and bar. 2924 Walnut Grove. 433-9345. L, D, X, $-$$

AMERIGO—Traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine includes pasta, wood-fired pizza, steaks, and cedarwood-roasted fish. 1239 Ridgeway, Park Place Mall. 761-4000. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

ANDALUSIA— Authentic Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, brochettes, and briouates. 5101 Sanderlin Ave., Suite 103. 236-7784. L, D, $-$$

ANDREW MICHAEL ITALIAN KITCHEN—Traditional Italian cuisine with a menu from two of the city’s top chefs that changes seasonally with such entrees as Maw Maw’s ravioli. Closed Sun.-Mon. 712 W. Brookhaven Circle. 347-3569. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE—Offering several varieties of eggs Benedict, waffles, omelets, pancakes, beignets, and other breakfast fare; also burgers, sandwiches, and salads. 6063 Park Ave. 729-7020; 65 S. Highland. 623-7122. B, L, WB, X, $

ANTIGUA MEXICAN BAR & GRILL—Tortas, tacos, and other authentic Mexican cuisine alongside freshly-made salsa, guacamole, and white queso dip. 717 N. White Station Rd. 761-1374. L, D, $-$$

BANGKOK ALLEY—Thai fusion cuisine includes noodle and curry dishes, chef-specialty sushi rolls, coconut soup, and duck and seafood entrees. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. at Brookhaven location; call for hours. 715 W. Brookhaven Circle. 590-2585; 2150 W. Poplar at Houston Levee (Collierville). 854-8748. L, D, X, $-$$

BELLE MEADE SOCIAL—Upscale Americana cuisine including lamb lollipops, spicy tuna stack, and steak & noodle salad. 518 Perkins Extd. 480-7054. L, D, $-$$$

BELMONT GRILL—Burgers, steak sandwiches, and other classic American fare at one of Memphis’ longstanding bars. 4970 Poplar. 767-0305. L, D, X, $-$$

BENIHANA—This Japanese steakhouse serves beef, chicken, and seafood grilled at the table; some menu items change monthly; sushi bar also featured. 912 Ridge Lake Blvd. 767-8980. L, D, X, $$-$$$

BIG BAD BREAKFAST—Fresh biscuits, house-made cured meats, jams, jellies, and more for the most important meal of the day. 6450 Poplar. 881-3346. B, L, X, $-$$

BOG & BARLEY—An all-Irish fine dining experience by the owners of Celtic Crossing, and a full bar with plenty of beer and 25-year-old Mccallan. 6150 Poplar, Suite 124. 805-2262. L, D, WB, X, $-$$

BROOKLYN BRIDGE ITALIAN RESTAURANT—Specializing in such homemade entrees as spinach lasagna and lobster ravioli; a seafood specialty is horseradish-crusted salmon. Closed Sun. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 755-7413. D, X, $-$$$

BRYANT’S BREAKFAST—Three-egg omelets, pancakes, and The Sampler Platter are among the popular entrees here. Possibly the best biscuits in town. Closed Mon. and Tues. 3965 Summer. 324-7494. B, L, X, $

BUCKLEY’S FINE FILET GRILL—Specializes in steaks, seafood, and pasta. (Lunchbox serves entree salads, burgers, and more.) 5355 Poplar. 683-4538; 919 S. Yates (Buckley’s Lunchbox), 682-0570. L (Yates only, M-F), D, X, $-$$

CAPITAL GRILLE—Known for its dry-aged, hand-carved steaks; among the specialties are bone-in sirloin, and porcini-rubbed Delmonico; also seafood entrees and seasonal lunch plates. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. Crescent Center, 6065 Poplar. 683-9291. L, D, X, $$$-$$$$

CASABLANCA—Lamb shawarma is one of the fresh, homemade specialties served at this Mediterranean/Moroccan restaurant; fish entrees and vegetarian options also available. 5030 Poplar. 725-8557; 1707 Madison. 421-6949. L, D, X, $-$$

CHUKIS TACOS 2—Traditional homestyle Mexican recipes. 3445 Poplar Ave., Suite 1. 888-4139. B, L, D, $-$$

CIAO BELLA—Among the Italian and Greek specialties are lasagna, seafood pasta, gourmet pizzas, and vegetarian options. 5101 Sanderlin Ave. 205-2500. D, X, MRA, $-$$$

CITY SILO TABLE + PANTRY—With a focus on clean eating, this establishment offers fresh juices, as well as comfort foods re-imagined with wholesome ingredients. 5101 Sanderlin. 729-7687. Germantown: 7605 W. Farmington Blvd., Suite 2. 236-7223. B, L, D, X, $ COASTAL FISH COMPANY—Upscale offerings of international fish varieties utilizing styles ranging from Carribbean, East Coast, West Coast, Chinese, to Filipino, and more. 415 Great View Dr. E., Suite 101. 266-9000. D, X, $$-$$$

CORKY’S—Popular barbecue emporium offers both wet and dry ribs, plus a full menu of other barbecue entrees. Wed. lunch buffets, Cordova and Collierville. 5259 Poplar. 685-9744; 1740 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 737-1911; 743 W. Poplar (Collierville). 405-4999; 6434 Goodman Rd., Olive Branch. 662-893-3663. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ DAN MCGUINNESS PUB—Serves fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, burgers, and other Irish and American fare; also lunch and dinner specials. 4694 Spottswood. 761-3711; 3964 Goodman Rd. 662-8907611. L, D, X, $

DORY—Chef David Krog whips up Southern specialties with classic French techniques and locally sourced ingredients. Current specialties include pork tenderloin, beef bourguignon, or cocoa-dusted chocolate truffles, with new weekly additions. 716 W. Brookhaven Circle. 310-4290. L, D, X, $$-$$$

ERLING JENSEN—For decades, has presented “globally inspired” cuisine to die for. Specialties are rack of lamb, big game entrees, and fresh fish dishes. 1044 S. Yates. 763-3700. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

ERLING JENSEN SMALL BITES—Enjoy Erling Jensen’s specialty dishes in a sharable, small plate format alongside TopGolf Swing suites. 5069 Sanderlin Ave. 587-9464. L, D, X, $-$$$

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE—Serves wet-aged and dry-aged steaks, prime beef, chops, and seafood, including salmon, Australian lobster tails, and a catch of the day. 6245 Poplar. 761-6200. D, X, MRA, $$$-$$$$

FOLK’S FOLLY ORIGINAL PRIME STEAK HOUSE

Specializes in prime steaks, as well as lobster, grilled Scottish salmon, Alaskan king crab legs, rack of lamb, and weekly specials. 551 S. Mendenhall. 762-8200. D, X, MRA, $$$-$$$$

FORMOSA—Offers Mandarin cuisine, including broccoli beef, hot-andsour soup, and spring rolls. Closed Mon. 6685 Quince. 753-9898. L, D, X, $-$$

FOX RIDGE PIZZA & GRILL—Pizzas, calzones, sub sandwiches, burgers, and meat-and-two plate lunches are among the dishes served at this eatery, which opened in 1979. 711 W. Brookhaven Circle. 758-6500. L, D, X, $

FRATELLI’S—Serves hot and cold sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts, all with an Italian/Mediterranean flair. Closed Sun. 750 Cherry Rd., Memphis Botanic Garden. 766-9900. L, X, $

FRANK GRISANTI ITALIAN RESTAURANT—Northern Italian favorites include pasta with jumbo shrimp and mushrooms; also seafood, filet mignon, and daily lunch specials. Closed for lunch Sun. Embassy Suites Hotel, 1022 S. Shady Grove. 761-9462. L, D, X, $-$$$ HALF SHELL—Specializes in seafood, such as king crab legs; also serves steaks, chicken, pastas, salads, sandwiches, a ”voodoo menu”; oyster bar at Winchester location. 688 S. Mendenhall. 682-3966; 7825 Winchester. 737-6755. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ HEN HOUSE—Hybrid wine/cocktail bar and tasting room with plenty of cosmopolitan eats. Closed Sun. 679 S. Mendenhall. 499-5436. D, $-$$$ HIGH POINT PIZZA—Serves a variety of pizzas, subs, salads, and sides. Closed Mon. A neighborhood fixture. 477 High Point Terrace. 452-3339. L, D, X, $-$$

HOG & HOMINY—The casual sister to Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen serves brick-oven-baked pizzas, including the Red-Eye with pork belly, and small plates with everything from meatballs to beef and cheddar hot dogs; and local veggies. And with a few surprises this time around. Closed for lunch Mon. 707 W. Brookhaven Cir. 207-7396. L, D, SB, X, MRA. $-$$$

HOUSTON’S—Serves steaks, seafood, pork chops, chicken dishes, sandwiches, salads, and Chicago-style spinach dip. Famous for first-class service. 5000 Poplar. 683-0915. L, D, X $-$$$

LA BAGUETTE—An almond croissant and chicken salad are among specialties at this French-style bistro. Closed for dinner Sun. 3088 Poplar. 458-0900. B, L, D (closes at 7), X, MRA, $ LAS DELICIAS—Popular for its guacamole, house-made tortilla chips, and margaritas, this restaurant draws diners with its chicken enchiladas, meat-stuffed flautas, and Cuban torta with spicy pork. Closed Sun. 4002 Park Ave. 458-9264; 5689 Quince. 800-2873. L, D, X, $

LIBRO AT LAURELWOOD—Bookstore eatery features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and homemade pasta dishes, with Italian-inspired options such as carbonara and potato gnocchi. Closed for dinner Sun. 387 Perkins Ext. (Novel). 800-2656. B, L, D, SB, X, $-$$

—New

and homemade

Closed Sun. 6300 Poplar Ave., Ste. 113. 729-7432. L, $-$$

LOST PIZZA—Offering pizzas (with dough made from scratch), pasta, salads, sandwiches, tamales, and more. 2855 Poplar. 572-1803; 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-892-8684. L, D, X, $-$$

MAGNOLIA & MAY—Southern-inspired, family-owned, casual dining restaurant serving up a variety of sandwiches, chef-inspired dishes, and craft cocktails. Popular items include shrimp and grits and the double cheeseburger. Closed Mon. 718 Mt. Moriah Rd. 676-8100. L, D, WB, X, MRA. $$-$$$.

MAHOGANY MEMPHIS—Upscale Southern restaurant offers such dishes as coffee-rubbed lamb chops and baked Cajun Cornish hen. Closed for dinner Sun. and all day Mon.-Tues. 3092 Poplar, Suite 11. 623-7977. L, D, SB, X, $-$$$

MARCIANO MEDITERRANEAN AND ITALIAN CUISINE—Veal Saltimbocca with angel-hair pasta and white wine sauce is among the entrees; also steaks, seafood, and gourmet pizza. 780 E. Brookhaven Cir. 682-1660. D, X, $-$$

MAYURI INDIAN CUISINE—Serves tandoori chicken, masala dosa, tikka masala, as well as lamb and shrimp entrees; also a daily lunch buffet, and dinner buffet on Fri.-Sat. 6524 Quince Rd. 753-8755. L, D, X, $-$$

MELLOW MUSHROOM—Large menu includes assortment of pizzas, salads, calzones, hoagies, vegetarian options, and 50 beers on tap. 5138 Park Ave. 562-1211; 9155 Poplar, Shops of Forest Hill (Germantown). 907-0243. L, D, X, $-$$

MOSA ASIAN BISTRO—Specialties include sesame chicken, Thai calamari, rainbow panang curry with grouper fish, and other Pan Asian/fusion entrees. Closed Mon. 850 S. White Station Rd. 683-8889. L, D, X, MRA, $ NAM KING—Offers luncheon and dinner buffets, dim sum, and such specialties as fried dumplings, pepper steak, and orange chicken. 4594 Yale. 373-4411. L, D, X, $

NAPA CAFE—Among the specialties are miso-marinated salmon over black rice with garlic spinach and shiitake mushrooms. Closed Sun. 5101 Sanderlin, Suite 122. 683-0441. L, D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

NEW HUNAN—Chinese eatery with more than 80 entrees; also lunch/ dinner buffets. 5052 Park. 766-1622. L, D, X, $

ONE & ONLY BBQ—On the menu are pork barbecue sandwiches, platters, wet and dry ribs, smoked chicken and turkey platters, a smoked meat salad, barbecue quesadillas, Brunswick Stew, and Millie’s homemade desserts. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 751-3615; 567 Perkins Extd. 249-4227. L, D, X, $

ONO POKÉ—This eatery specializes in poké — a Hawaiian dish of fresh fish salad served over rice. Menu includes a variety of poké bowls, like the Kimchi Tuna bowl, or customers can build their own by choosing a base, protein, veggies, and toppings. 3145 Poplar. 618-2955. L, D, X , $

OWEN BRENNAN’S—New Orleans-style menu of beef, chicken, pasta, and seafood; jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and crawfish etouffee are specialties. Closed for dinner Sun. The Regalia, 6150 Poplar. 761-0990. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

PARK + CHERRY—The Dixon offers casual dining within the museum. Seasonal menu features sandwiches, like rustic chicken salad on croissant, as well as salads, snacks, and sweets. Closed for breakfast Sun. and all day Mon. 4339 Park (Dixon Gallery and Gardens). 761-5250. L, X, $ PATRICK’S—Serves barbecue nachos, burgers, and entrees such as fish and chips; also plate lunches and daily specials. 4972 Park. 682-2852. L, D, X, MRA, $

PETE & SAM’S—Serving Memphis for 60-plus years; offers steaks, seafood, and traditional Italian dishes, including homemade ravioli, lasagna, and chicken marsala. 3886 Park. 458-0694. D, X, $-$$$

PF CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO—Specialties are orange peel shrimp, Mongolian beef, and chicken in lettuce wraps; also vegetarian dishes, including spicy eggplant. 1181 Ridgeway Rd., Park Place Centre. 818-3889.

L, D, X, $-$$

PHO SAIGON—Vietnamese fare includes beef teriyaki, roasted quail, curry ginger chicken, vegetarian options, and a variety of soups. 2946 Poplar. 458-1644. L, D, $

PIMENTO’S KITCHEN + MARKET—Fresh sandwiches, soups, salads, and plenty of pimento cheese at this family-owned restaurant. 6540 Poplar Ave. 602-5488 (Collierville: 3751 S. Houston Levee. 453-6283). L, D, X, $

PYRO’S FIRE-FRESH PIZZA—Serving gourmet pizzas cooked in an open-fire oven, wide choice of toppings, and large local and craft beer selection. 1199 Ridgeway. 379-8294; 2035 Union Ave. 208-8857; 2286 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 207-1198; 3592 S. Houston Levee (Collierville). 221-8109. L, D, X, MRA, $

THE READY ROOM—Duck wontons, bananas “Oscar,” and plenty of other bar snacks and entrees at Hook Point Brewing Co.’s taproom. Closed Mon./ Tues. 715 W. Brookhaven Cir. 487-6931. L, D, WB, X, $-$$

RED HOOK CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Cajun-style array of seafood including shrimp, mussels, clams, crawfish, and oysters. 3295 Poplar. 207-1960. L, D, X, $-$$

RED KOI—Classic Japanese cuisine offered at this family-run restaurant; hibachi steaks, sushi, seafood, chicken, and vegetables. 5847 Poplar. 767-3456. L, D, X $-$$

LITTLE ITALY EAST

York-style pizzas galore

pasta.

RED PIER CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Owners of Red Hook bring more cajun-style seafood dishes. 5901 Poplar Ave. 512-5923. L, D, X, $-$$$

RESTAURANT IRIS—French Creole-inspired classics, such as Gulf shrimp and rice grits congee served with lap chong sausage and boiled peanuts, are served at this newly remodeled restaurant owned by Chef Kelly English, a Food and Wine “Top Ten.” 4550 Poplar. 5902828. L, D, X, $$-$$$

RIVER OAKS—Chef Jose Gutierrez’s French-style bistro serves seafood and steaks, with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 5871 Poplar Ave. 683-9305. L, D, X, $$$

RONNIE GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT— This Memphis institution serves some family classics such as Elfo’s Special and handmade ravioli, along with house-made pizza and fresh oysters. Closed Sun. 6150 Poplar, Suite 122. 850-0191. D, X, $-$$$

ROTOLO’S CRAFT & CRUST—Louisiana-based pizza company’s first Memphis location, whipping up pizza pies with homemade sauces and fresh ingredients, pasta, wings, and other shareables. 681 S. White Station. 454-3352. L, D, X, $-$$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE—Offers prime steaks cut and aged in-house, as well as lamb, chicken, and fresh seafood, including lobster. 6120 Poplar. 761-0055. D, X, $$$-$$$$

SALSA—Mexican-Southern California specialties include carnitas, enchiladas verde, and fajitas; also Southwestern seafood dishes such as snapper verde. Closed Sun. Regalia Shopping Center, 6150 Poplar, Suite 129. 683-6325. L, D, X, $-$$

SAUCY CHICKEN—Specializes in antibiotic-free chicken dishes with locally sourced ingredients, with such items as hot wings and the Crosstown Chicken Sandwich, and a variety of house-made dipping sauces; also, seafood, salads, and daily specials. Closed Sun. 4715 Poplar. 907-0741. L, D, $

SEASONS 52—This elegant fresh grill and wine bar offers a seasonally changing menu using fresh ingredients, wood-fire grilling, and brick-oven cooking; also a large international wine list and nightly piano bar. Crescent Center, 6085 Poplar. 682-9952. L, D, X, $$-$$$

STAKS—Offering pancakes, including birthday cake and lemon ricotta. Menu includes other breakfast items such as beignets and French toast, as well as soups and sandwiches for lunch. 4615 Poplar. 509-2367; 3660 S. Houston Levee Road, Ste 104 (Collierville). 286-4335; 7704 Poplar (Germantown). 800-1951; 2902 May Blvd. (Southaven). B, L, WB, X, $

SWANKY’S TACO SHOP—Taco-centric eatery offers tortas, flatbreads, quesadillas, chimichangas, burgers, and more. 4770 Poplar. 730-0763; 6641 Poplar (Germantown). 737-2088; 272 S. Main. 7793499. L, D, X, $

THREE LITTLE PIGS—Pork-shoulder-style barbecue with tangy mild or hot sauce, freshly made coleslaw, and baked beans. 5145 Quince Rd. 685-7094. B, L, D, X, $

TOPS BAR-B-Q—Specializes in pork barbecue sandwiches and sandwich plates with beans and slaw; also serves ribs, beef brisket, and burgers. 1286 Union. 725-7527; 4183 Summer. 324-4325; 5391 Winchester. 794-7936; 3970 Rhodes. 323-9865; 6130 Macon. 3710580. For more locations, go online. L, D, X, $

TORCHY’S TACOS—Plenty of Tex-Mex variety, with creative monthly special tacos. 719 S. Mendenhall. 343-8880. B, L, D, X, $

VENICE KITCHEN—Specializes in “eclectic Italian” and Southern Creole, from pastas, including the “Godfather,” to hand-tossed pizzas, including the “John Wayne”; choose from 50 toppings. 368 Perkins Ext. 767-6872. L, D, SB, X, $-$$

WANG’S MANDARIN HOUSE—Offers Mandarin, Cantonese, Szechuan, and spicy Hunan entrees, including the golden-sesame chicken; next door is East Tapas, serving small plates with an Asian twist. 6065 Park Ave., Park Place Mall. 763-0676. L, D, X, $-$$

WASABI—Serving traditional Japanese offerings, hibachi, sashimi, and sushi. The Sweet Heart roll, wrapped — in the shape of a heart — with tuna and filled with spicy salmon, yellowtail, and avocado, is a specialty. 5101 Sanderlin Rd., Suite 105. 421-6399. L, D, X, $-$$

THE WING GURU—A staple of the Memphis wing scene, featuring everything from classic buffalo to exquisite lemon pepper. 5699 Mt. Moriah Rd. 509-2405; 875 W. Poplar Ave., Ste. 6 (Collierville). 2217488; 8253 Highway 51, North Suite #103 (Millington). 872-0849; 4130 Elvis Presley Blvd (Whitehaven) 791-4726; 5224 Airline Rd., Ste. 107 (Arlington). 209-0349. L, D, X, $-$$

WOMAN’S EXCHANGE TEA ROOM—Chicken-salad plate, beef tenderloin, soups-and-sandwiches, vegetable plates, and homemade desserts are specialties. Closed Sat.-Sun. 88 Racine. 327-5681. L, X, $

CORDOVA

THE BLUE ROOM RESTAURANT—An elevated take on traditional Southern recipes, located in the U of M Kemmons Wilson Culinary Institute. Closed Mon. 1245 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 101. 249-7512. D, SB, $$-$$$

BOMBAY HOUSE—Indian fare includes lamb korma and chicken tikka; also, a daily luncheon buffet. 1727 N. Germantown Pkwy. 755-4114. L, D, X, $-$$

THE BUTCHER SHOP—Serves steaks ranging from 8-oz. filets to a 20-oz. porterhouse; also chicken, pork chops, fresh seafood. 107 S. Germantown Rd. 757-4244. L (Fri. and Sun.), D, X, $$-$$$

GREEN BAMBOO—Pineapple tilapia, pork vermicelli, and the soft egg noodle combo are Vietnamese specialties here. 990 N. Germantown Parkway, Suite 104. 753-5488. L, D, $-$$

JIM ’N NICK’S BAR-B-Q—Serves barbecued pork, ribs, chicken, brisket, and fish, along with other homemade Southern specialties. 2359 N. Germantown Pkwy. 388-0998. L, D, X, $-$$

EL MERO TACO—This food truck turned restaurant serves up Mexican and Southern-style fusion dishes, including fried chicken tacos, chorizo con papas tacos, and brisket quesadillas. 8100 Macon Station, Suite 102. 308-1661. Closed Sun.-Mon. L, D, WB, X, $ OPTIONS Burgers, wings, philly cheesesteaks, and more comfort food options. Closed Mon.-Thu. 7940 Fischer Steel Rd. 245-6048. D, SB, $-$$

POKÉ WORLD—Serves up Hawaiian poké bowls filled with rice and diced, raw fish. Also offers Taiwanese bubble tea and rolled ice cream for dessert. 1605 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 111. 623-7986. East Memphis: 575 Erin Dr. 779-4971. L, D, $

SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT—Entrees include tempura, teriyaki, and sushi, as well as grilled fish and chicken entrees. 2324 N. Germantown Pkwy. 384-4122. L, D, X, $-$$

TANNOOR GRILL—Brazilian-style steakhouse with skewers served tableside, along with Middle Eastern specialties; vegetarian options also available. 830 N. Germantown Pkwy. 443-5222. L, D, X, $-$$$

GERMANTOWN

BLUE HONEY BISTRO—Entrees at this upscale eatery include brown butter scallops served with Mississippi blue rice and herbcrusted beef tenderloin with vegetables and truffle butter. Closed Sun. 9155 Poplar, Suite 17. 552-3041. D, X, $-$$$

THE CRAZY COOP—Plenty of hot wings and sauces, plus sandwiches and other dinner plates. 1315 Ridgeway Rd. 748-5325; 7199 Stage Rd. (Bartlett). 433-9212. L, D, $-$$

DIMSUM MEM—Traditional Chinese food truck takes over the New Asia space. 2075 Exeter Rd., Ste. 90. L, D, X, $-$$

GERMANTOWN COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches; Mon.-night all-you-can-eat ribs. 2290 S. Germantown Rd. S. 754-5540. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

LAS TORTUGAS DELI MEXICANA—Authentic Mexican food prepared from local food sources; specializes in tortugas — grilled bread scooped out to hold such powerfully popular fillings as brisket, pork, and shrimp; also tingas, tostados. Closed Sun. 1215 S. Germantown Rd. 751-1200; 6300 Poplar. 623-3882. L, D, X, $-$$

LIMELIGHT—Wolf River Hospitality Group brings Wagyu beef, duck gnocchi, and other fine dining dishes on a rotating seasonal menu. Closed Mon./Tue. 7724 Poplar Pike. 791-2328. D, X, $-$$$

LOCAL LIME—Tacos and margaritas in a casual environment, plus other goodies like the Mexican caramel apple crisp skillet. Closed Mon. 7605 W. Farmington Blvd., Suite 1. 224-2204. L, D, X, $-$$$

MOONDANCE GRILL—From the owners of Itta Bena and Lafayette’s. Serves steak cooked sous vide and seafood dishes including Abita-barbecued shrimp and pan-seared sand dab, in addition to an extensive wine and cocktail list. 1730 S. Germantown Road, Suite 117. 755-1471. L, D, X, $$-$$$

NOODLES ASIAN BISTRO—Serves a variety of traditional Asian cuisine, with emphasis on noodle dishes, such as Singapore Street Noodles and Hong Kong Chow Fun. 7850 Poplar, Suite 12. 755-1117. L, D, X, $

PETALS OF A PEONY—Authentic Sichuan cuisine, from crispy duck to peony fried chicken. Be prepared for spice! 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy. L, D, X, $-$$

PETRA CAFÉ—Serves Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern sandwiches, gyros, and entrees. Hours vary; call. 6641 Poplar. 754-4440; 547 S. Highland. 323-3050. L, D, X, $-$$

ROCK’N DOUGH PIZZA CO.—Specialty and custom pizzas made from fresh ingredients; wide variety of toppings. 7850 Poplar, Suite 6. 779-2008. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $$

ROYAL PANDA—Hunan fish, Peking duck, Royal Panda chicken and shrimp, and a seafood combo are among the specialties. 3120 Village Shops Dr. 756-9697. L, D, X, $-$$

SAKURA—Sushi, tempura, and teriyaki are Japanese specialties here. 2060 West St. 758-8181; 4840 Poplar. 572-1002; 255 New Byhalia Rd. 316-5638. L, D, X, $-$$

SOUTHERN SOCIAL—Shrimp and grits, stuffed quail, and Aunt Thelma’s Fried Chicken are among the dishes served at this upscale Southern establishment. 2285 S. Germantown Rd. 754-5555. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

STONEY RIVER STEAKHOUSE AND GRILL—Specializes in hand-cut steaks, a fresh seafood selection, and plenty of house specials. 7515 Poplar Ave., Suite 101. 207-1100. L, D, X, $$-$$$$

SUFI’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & BAR—Offers authentic Mediterranean and Persian cuisine, from hummus shawarma to traditional moussaka. Closed Mon. 7609 Poplar Pike. 779-2200. L, D, X, $-$$$

TAZIKI’S—Mediterranean-inspired dishes all made from scratch. 7850 Poplar Ave., Suite 26. 612-2713. East Memphis: 540 S. Mendenhall Rd. 290-1091. Bartlett: 7974 US-64. 203-0083. L, D, $

THE TOASTED YOLK CAFE—Churro donuts, signature Eggs Benedict, and plenty other boozy brunch options at this franchise’s first Tennessee location. 9087 Poplar Ave., Ste. 11. B, L, X, $-$$

UNCLE GOYO’S—More than 30 dishes with a focus on authentic Mexican cuisine, from the brains behind TacoNganas. 1730 S. Germantown Rd. L, D, X, $-$$

WEST STREET DINER—This home-style eatery offers breakfast, burgers, po’boys, and more. 2076 West St. 757-2191. B, L, D (Mon.-Fri.), X, $ ZEN JAPANESE FINE CUISINE—A full sushi bar and plenty of authentic Japanese dishes, like Hibachi or Wagyu beef. 1730 S. Germantown Rd. 779-2796. L, D, X, X, $-$$$

COLLIERVILLE

CAFE PIAZZA BY PAT LUCCHESI—Specializes in gourmet pizzas (including create-your-own), panini sandwiches, and pasta. Closed Sun. 139 S. Rowlett St. 861-1999. L, D, X, $-$$

CIAO BABY—Specializing in Neapolitan-style pizza made in a wood-fired oven. Also serves house-made mozzarella, pasta, appetizers, and salads. 890 W. Poplar, Suite 1. 457-7457. L, D, X, $

COLLIERVILLE COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches. 3573 S. Houston Levee Rd. 979-5540. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

COLLIERVILLE PIZZA COMPANY—Family-friendly and locally owned pizza company featuring live music and other events. 144 US 72. L, D, X, $-$$

DAVID GRISANTI’S ON MAIN—Serving Northern Italian cuisine and traditional Grisanti family recipes. Closed Sun./Mon. 148 N Main. 861-1777. L, D, X, $-$$$

DYER’S CAFE—Juicy hamburgers, split dogs, and milkshakes at the historic Collierville restaurant. 101 N. Center St. 850-7750. L, D, X, $-$$

EL MEZCAL—Serves burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, and other Mexican cuisine, as well as shrimp dinners and steak. 9947 Wolf River, 853-7922; 402 Perkins Extd. 761-7710; 694 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 7551447; 1492 Union. 274-4264; 11615 Airline Rd. (Arlington). 867-1883; 9045 Highway 64 (Lakeland). 383-4219; 7164 Hacks Cross Rd. (Olive Branch). 662-890-3337; 8834 Hwy. 51 N. (Millington). 872-3220; 7424 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 417-6026. L, D, X, $

EMERALD THAI RESTAURANT—Spicy shrimp, pad khing, lemongrass chicken, and several noodle, rice, and vegetarian dishes are offered at this family restaurant. Closed Sunday. 8950 Highway 64 (Lakeland, TN). 384-0540. L, D, X, $-$$

FIREBIRDS—Specialties are hand-cut steaks, slow-roasted prime rib, and wood-grilled salmon and other seafood, as well as seasonal entrees. 4600 Merchants Circle, Carriage Crossing. 850-1637; 8470 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 379-1300. L, D, X, $-$$$

JIM’S PLACE GRILLE—Features American, Greek, and Continental cuisine. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 3660 Houston Levee. 8615000. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$

MULAN ASIAN BISTRO—Hunan Chicken, tofu dishes, and orange beef served here; sushi and Thai food, too. 2059 Houston Levee. 850-5288; 2149 Young. 347-3965; 4698 Spottswood. 609-8680. L, D, X, $-$$

OSAKA JAPANESE CUISINE—Featuring an extensive sushi menu as well as traditional Japanese and hibachi dining. Hours vary for lunch; call. 3670 Houston Levee. 861-4309; 3402 Poplar. 249-4690; 7164 Hacks Cross (Olive Branch). 662-890-9312; 2200 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 425-4901. L, D, X, $-$$$

RAVEN & LILY—Eatery offers innovative Southern-inspired cuisine with such dishes as crispy shrimp and cauliflower salad, spiced lamb sausage and parmesan risotto, and bananas foster pain perdu. Closed Mon. 120 E. Mulberry. 286-4575. L, D, SB, X, $-$$

STIX—Hibachi steakhouse with Asian cuisine features steak, chicken, and a fillet and lobster combination, also sushi. A specialty is Dynamite Chicken with fried rice. 4680 Merchants Park Circle, Avenue Carriage Crossing. 854-3399. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 115 (Downtown). 207-7638 L, D, X, $-$$

WOLF RIVER BRISKET CO.—From the owners of Pyro’s Fire Fresh Pizza, highlights include house-smoked meats: prime beef brisket, chicken, and salmon. Closed Sun. 9947 Wolf River Boulevard, Suite 101. 316-5590; 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 165. 791-4389 L, D, X, $-$$

ZOPITA’S ON THE SQUARE—Cafe offers sandwiches, including smoked salmon and pork tenderloin, as well as salads and desserts. Closed Sun. 114 N. Main. 457-7526. L, D, X,$

OUT-OF-TOWN

BOZO’S HOT PIT BAR-B-Q—Barbecue, burgers, sandwiches, and subs. 342 Highway 70 (Mason, TN). 901-294-3400. L, D, X, $-$$

CATFISH BLUES—Serving Delta-raised catfish and Cajun- and Southerninspired dishes, including gumbo and fried green tomatoes. 210 E. Commerce (Hernando, MS). 662-298-3814. L, D, $

CITY GROCERY—Southern eclectic cuisine; shrimp and grits is a specialty. Closed for dinner Sun. 152 Courthouse Square (Oxford, MS). 662-232-8080. L, D, SB, X, $$-$$$

COMO STEAKHOUSE—Steaks cooked on a hickory charcoal grill are a specialty here. Upstairs is an oyster bar. Closed Sun. 203 Main St. (Como, MS). 662-526-9529. D, X, $-$$$

ELFO GRISANTI’S NORTHERN ITALIAN CUISINE—Grisanti family classics like lasagna, homemade ravioli, garlic bread, and Northern Italian pizza. Closed Sun. 5627 Getwell Rd. (Southaven, MS). 662-470-4497. L, D, X, $-$$

LONG ROAD CIDER CO.—Specializes in hard apple ciders made with traditional methods. Cafe-style entrees include black-eyed peas with cornbread and greens, chicken Gorgonzola pockets, cider-steamed sausage, and housemade ice creams. Closed Sun.-Wed. 9053 Barret Road. (Barretville, TN). 352-0962. D, X, $

CASINO TABLES

CHICAGO STEAKHOUSE AT THE GOLDSTRIKE—1010 Casino Center Dr., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-24KSTAY /662-357-1225

FAIRBANKS AT THE HOLLYWOOD—1150 Casino Strip Blvd., Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-871-0711

IGNITE STEAKHOUSE AT SOUTHLAND CASINO RACING—1550 N. Ingram Blvd., West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182

JACK BINION’S STEAK HOUSE AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center Drive, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE

LUCKY 8 ASIAN BISTRO AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center Drive, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE

SOUTHLAND CASINO HOTEL'S THE KITCHENS—1550 N. Ingram Blvd., West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182

THE STEAKHOUSE AT THE FITZ—711 Lucky Ln., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-766-LUCK, ext 8213

TWAIN’S STEAKHOUSE AT SAM’S TOWN TUNICA—1477 Casino Strip Resorts Boulevard, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-456-0711

MANILA FILIPINO RESTAURANT—Entrees include pork belly cutlet with lechon sauce, and shrimp and vegetables in tamarind broth; also daily combos, rice dishes, and chef specials. Closed Sun.-Mon. 7849 Rockford (Millington, TN). 209-8525. L, D, X, $

MARSHALL STEAKHOUSE—Rustic steakhouse serves premium Angus beef steaks, seafood dishes, rack of lamb, and more. 2379 Highway 178 (Holly Springs, MS). 628-3556. B, L, D, X, $-$$$

MEMPHIS BARBECUE COMPANY—Offers spare ribs, baby backs, and pulled pork and brisket. 709 Desoto Cove (Horn Lake, MS). 662-536-3762. L, D, X, $-$$

NAGOYA—Offers traditional Japanese cuisine and sushi bar; specialties are teriyaki and tempura dishes. 7075 Malco Blvd., Suite 101 (Southaven, MS). 662-349-8788. L, D, X, $-$$$

PIG-N-WHISTLE—Offers pork shoulder sandwiches, wet and dry ribs, catfish, nachos, and stuffed barbecue potatoes. 6084 Kerr-Rosemark Rd. (Millington, TN). 872-2455. L, D, X, $

RAVINE—Serves contemporary Southern cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally grown foods and a menu that changes weekly. Closed Mon.-Tues. 53 Pea Ridge/County Rd. 321 (Oxford, MS). 662-234-4555. D, SB, X, $$-$$$

SAINT LEO’S—Offering sophisticated pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and salads. A James Beard nominee for Best New Restaurant in 2017. 1101 Jackson (Oxford, MS). 662-234-4555. D, L, WB, X, $-$$

SIMON’S—A unique dining experience situated in a charming, small town. Closed Sun./Mon. 201 N. Main St. (Bolivar, TN). 731-403-3474. L, D, $$-$$$$

SNACKBAR—An intriguing mix of “French Bistro with North Mississippi Cafe.” Serving a confit duck Croque Monsieur, watermelon-cucumber chaat, pan-fried quail, plus a daily plate special and a raw bar. 721 N. Lamar (Oxford, MS). 662-236-6363. D, X, $-$$$

TEKILA MODERN MEXICAN—Modern interpretations of classic dishes from all over Mexico. 6343 Getwell Rd. (Southaven, MS). 662-510-5734. B, L, D, X, $-$$

WILSON CAFE— An impressive culinary destination in the heart of the Arkansas Delta. Serving jambalaya, Waygu flatiron, butternut ravioli, swordfish & shrimp kabobs, burgers. 2 N. Jefferson (Wilson, AR). 870-6550222. L, D, WB, $-$$$

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