Memphis Magazine January 2020 by Contemporary Media

B A B Y J A GU A R S | GUL F SHOR E S T R AV EL | C OMMUNI T Y C A FÉ S | MIND -BOD Y C ONNE C T IONS Memphis • THE CITY MAGAZINE • W W W.MEMPHISMAGAZINE.COM

THE CITY MAGAZINE

VOL XLIV NO 10 | JANUARY 2020

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THERE' S A PLACE FOR US USA $4.99

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SIX EXTRAORDINARY BLUFF CITY WEDDING VENUES @+2

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M Y L A G O S M Y W AY

C AV I A R C O L L E C T I O N S

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Transforming the standard in health care education.

Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, innovation is at the forefront of our mission to transform health care, education, research, clinical care, and public service.

uthsc.edu

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Custom Closets For Every Size, Style & Budget. Save 30% on our best-selling Elfa® closet system through February 25th. NOW OPEN | GERMANTOWN

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3075 Forest Hill Irene Road | Germantown, TN 38138 | (901) 753-8515 | www.chestnuthall.com

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Technology that brings people together in an SUV that stands apart. Introducing the all-new 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC. The more time you spend in it, the more it gets to know you and your passenger’s preferences. Its intelligent voice controlled Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) allows for superior interaction with the world around it, and a closer connection to those inside. All the while, its sporty physique and seductive interior place it in a class all by itself. Learn more at MBUSA.com/GLC

THE 2020

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Mercedes-Benz of Collierville 4651 S. Houston Levee Road, Collierville, TN (901) 316-3535 www.mbcollierville.com

Mercedes-Benz of Memphis 5389 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN (901) 345-6211 www.mbofmemphis.com

2020 GLC 300 shown in Iridium Silver metallic paint with optional equipment shown and described. *MSRP excludes all options, taxes, title, registration, transportation charge and dealer prep. Options, model availability and actual dealer price may vary. See dealer for details. ©2019 Authorized Mercedes-Benz Dealers For more information, call 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES, or visit MBUSA.com.

HEADLINE: 22 pt. • BODY COPY: 9.5 pt.

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200 Varick St. New York, NY 10014 : Phone 212-805-7500

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We helped Todd lose 97 pounds. And add 100 watts to his smile. Todd Johnson’s new life started the day he went to the UT Methodist Physicians Weight Management and Wellness Center. After speaking with the medical specialists, Dr. Virginia Weaver and Dr. Matthew Davis, about his options, Todd underwent a life-saving laparoscopic bariatric surgery to kick start his weight-loss journey. That was 97 pounds ago. From diet and nutritional plans to our accredited bariatric surgery program, we offer tailored health plans with surgical and non-surgical options to help you achieve your weight-loss goals.

Discover your options at one of our upcoming weight-loss seminars: Jan. 16: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM methodisthealth.org/weightloss 901-758-7840

UT Methodist Physicians Weight Management and Wellness Center • 57 Germantown Ct., Suite 204, Cordova, TN 38018

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On the Cover Marriage on the Mississippi PHOTOGRAPH BY KAREN PULFER FOCHT

V O L X L I V N O 10 | JAN UARY 20 2 0

Up Front 10 12 14 18 20 22

IN THE BEGINNING

Features

24 Knowing One’s Place

The wedding reception venue can set the tone for the entire ceremony.

WE SAW YOU OUT AND ABOUT CLASSIC DINING

ROAD TRIP

Beach Town The beauty of Gulf Shores, Alabama, resists the winds of change.

FICTION CITY BEAT

~ by jill johnson piper

~ by chris mccoy

47 Remodel Memphis

Your 2020 guide to making the most of your space.

~ by julia baker and samuel x. cicci

57 901 HEALTH

How Do You Feel? What do you eat? Your diet impacts your overall wellness.

~ by jane schneider GARDEN VARIETY

Tangled up in Blue Plant lists in January are dominated by flowers with blue blooms.

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~ by john a. jennings ASK VANCE

Don Briscoe of Dark Shadows Our trivia expert solves local mysteries of who, what, when, where, why, and why not. ~ by vance lauderdale DINING OUT

Food for Thought in Binghampton Two community restaurants bookend a neighborhood with admirable missions and healthy, affordable food. ~ by pamela denney

CITY DINING

The city’s most extensive dining listings. LAST STAND

Never Say No to a Gig Lessons learned from guitar-playing grandfathers and wise old drummers. ~ by jesse davis

Memphis (ISSN 1622-820x) is published monthly for $18 per year by Contemporary Media, Inc., P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 © 2020. Telephone: 901-521-9000. For subscription info, please call 901-521-9000. Subscription customer service mailing address is Memphis magazine, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101. All rights reserved. • Periodicals Postage Paid at Memphis, TN. Postmasters: send address changes to Memphis, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101.

JANUARY 2020 • MEMPHISMAGA ZINE.COM • 7

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Memphis THE C IT Y MAGAZ INE

Your next adventure awaits…

General Excellence Grand Award Winner City and Regional Magazine Association 2007, 2008, 2010, 2014

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER anna traverse fogle EXECUTIVE EDITOR michael finger MANAGING EDITOR frank murtaugh SENIOR EDITORS shara clark, jon w. sparks ASSOCIATE EDITOR samuel x. cicci ARTS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR anne cunningham o’neill FOOD EDITOR pamela denney CONTRIBUTING EDITORS jesse davis, michael donahue,

vance lauderdale EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS john a. jennings, chris mccoy,

jill johnson piper, jane schneider EDITORIAL ASSISTANT julia baker CALENDAR EDITOR julie ray

4530 POPLAR AVE — MEMPHIS 2130 W POPLAR AVE — COLLIERVILLE FLEETFEETMEMPHIS.COM

@fleetfeetmemphs /fleetfeetmemphis

EDITORIAL INTERN matthew j. harris

CREATIVE DIRECTOR brian groppe PRODUCTION OPERATIONS DIRECTOR margie neal SENIOR ART DIRECTOR carrie beasley ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR christopher myers GRAPHIC DESIGNERS rachel li, bryan rollins PHOTOGRAPHY justin fox burks, karen pulfer focht,

laura jean hocking, larry kuzniewski

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE sloane patteson taylor ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES sheryl butler, kelli dewitt, Memphis Magazine’s

chip googe, michelle musolf, tabitha wadkins,

FACE

SALES/MARKETING INTERN kaylee buscher

ORIENTAL RUGS

published by contemporary media, inc.

THE 2019

jacob woloshin

memphis, tennessee 901-521-9000 p • 901-521-0129 f subscriptions: 901-521-9000

CONTROLLER ashley haeger CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER jeffrey a. goldberg DIGITAL SERVICES DIRECTOR kristin pawlowski CIRCULATION & ACCOUNTING MANAGER lynn sparagowski MARKETING & CIRCULATION COORDINATOR kalena mckinney SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR molly willmott IT DIRECTOR joseph carey IT INTERN evan woody

Our business is our family name.

PUBLISHER EMERITUS kenneth neill

january 2020

STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE SINCE 1950

repairs reweaving handwash/cleaning appraisals sales color run restoration pet and other stain removals padding moth damage odor removal storage and much more 3554 Park Ave., Memphis, TN • 901.327.5033 • taghavirugs.com • Like us on Facebook

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8 • MEMPHISMAGA ZINE.COM • JANUARY 2020

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IN THE BEGINNING | by anna traverse fogle

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“A CAREER BUILT UPON TRUST”

2020 Vision

ou’ve entered a new decade by the time you read this, and a year that reads like the perfect optometrist’s assessment I’ll never receive. I’m writing to you from the recent past – mid-December.

At present I am, of all places, in a studio apartment in Paris, with a view of the Eiffel Tower. My husband and I have traveled here for a somewhat belated honeymoon. At the end of a tumultuous year, it seems fitting that we should have landed in Paris in the third week of a widespread transit strike that has shuttered much of the Métro (thus clogging the streets with auto traffic), as well as disrupted rail service to more distant French locales. In recent weeks, as many as 400,000 Parisians have taken to the streets to demonstrate their discontent with the French government’s planned pension reforms. Protests are expected again tomorrow. The tourist crowds have been light, relatively speaking, thanks to many travelers’ canceled or postponed plans. The only real throngs we’ve seen: at the base of the Eiffel Tower, and in the gawking area surrounding the Mona Lisa. And I’m pretty sure there are crowds permanently stationed at both places, no matter the time of day or time of year. The Louvre closes for the night, and somehow, some way, there remains an anxious crowd queuing up for their peek at Mona Lisa. It’s a strain to imagine Room 711 of the museum any other way. And while we were genuinely looking forward to navigating the Métro, we like to walk even more. It’s the absolute best way to learn a city’s contours and textures, to trace its lines and absorb its smells and syncopations. You could say we’re enjoying the city in spite of certain obstacles, but that might suggest that we’ve had to scramble and scrape to find the loveliness here, and this is not the case. Outside the window, the Eiffel Tower glitters every hour on the hour, and today the Venus de Milo nearly grazed us with her robes. When we return home, it will be to our own home, finally, after three long months’ displacement following an electrical fire in September. I cannot allow myself, not quite yet, to think about the relief it will be simply

to wake up each morning in the same place, and not to unpack and repack our things every one to three weeks, as we have been doing all autumn. The decade that’s just passed seems to me to have been characterized, both personally and globally, by finding ways to thrive in spite of certain complications. I’d like to say that I hope the 2020s might present fewer complexities, but that would be disingenuous. From the troubled state of the media industry, especially the local media industry, to the waking nightmare of climate change, I have to admit with clear-eyed vision that the 2020s will require constant adaptation. We’ll focus in this microcosm on adapting for the better. Yo u ’ l l s e e some of that rapid evolution in this magazine; our regular readers, I hope, have a l ready. We’re covering familiar ground, but approaching it in different ways. You’ll see in this January issue our annual weddings feature. But instead of focusing on a few lovely couples, we’ve chosen to turn the lens on the behind-the-scenes aspects of marrying in Memphis – emphasis on Memphis. There’s so much here that you can’t find anywhere else, and we see it as our goal to keep you informed about as much of it as we can fit. We hope you’ll venture to a pair of community restaurants in the Binghampton neighborhood, guided by our Dining Out feature. Plan a month of local activities – our calendar is always a good resource, both in these pages and online. We are ensconced in the darkest, coldest time of year, with nights that stretch on and on; you may as well use them wisely. There is, as always, much more besides. Most of all, I hope you will try – as I will along with you – to go into this new decade with curiosity, and willingness, and deep affection for the place and people around you. No matter what unrest may come, we’ll know where our center is. – Anna Traverse Fogle, CEO

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANNA TRAVERSE FOGLE

Ask Questions. Get Answers!

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For Travis, the surgery wasn’t only about what he’s lost, but more about what he’s gained. Weight loss surgery is generally designed for those with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 40, or equal to or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding with the Lap Band® is also FDA-approved for weight loss surgery in people with a BMI of 30 to 35 who have at least one obesity-related condition. Weight loss surgery is considered safe, but like many types of surgery, it does have risks. Consult with your physicians about the risks and benefits of weight loss surgery. These testimonials reflect results achieved by these patients. As each case must be independently evaluated and managed, actual weight loss will vary.

A COMMUNITY BUILT ON SUPPORT Losing a significant amount of weight — the kind that often results from weight loss surgery — can have a major impact on your overall health. Weight loss surgery has been shown to improve or even resolve several obesity related conditions, such as: Type 2 Diabetes ■ Sleep Apnea ■

High Cholesterol ■ Joint Pain ■

■ ■

Heart Disease High Blood Pressure

The Saint Francis Center for Surgical Weight Loss has helped more than 7,000 individuals in their journey to a healthier life, and we can support you in your decision to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

To sign up for a free seminar or to learn more about our program, visit MemphisWeightLossSurgery.com or call (844) 367-2858.

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WE SAW YOU

Moonshine Ball gr ac e l a n d e x h i b i t ion c e n t e r nov e m b e r 2 2 , 2 019

with michael donahue

look around the room at the Moonshine Ball revealed a who’s who of Memphis music. Steve Cropper, Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell, Wendy Moten, Jerry Phillips, and Jason D. Williams were among the guests. The event, which benefited the Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum, honored those responsible for “what has made Memphis music phenomenal,” says the ball’s founder/general chairperson Pat Kerr Tigrett. She wanted them to “come and be acknowledged.” The event featured performances by Moten, Williams, Southern Halo, and Rev. Al Green’s Greater Gospel Tabernacle Choir and band. “The Moonshine Ball shines a bright light on Tennessee, as this was where America’s music was born. Period,” Tigrett says. In keeping with the music theme as well as the theme of Moonshine Ball, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of landing on the moon, Sting and his wife, Trudie Styler, donated “Sister Moon” wine from their estate, Villa Il Palagio, which includes 65 acres of vineyards. Sister Moon, named after Sting’s song, is the sixteenth-century estate’s flagship wine.

1 Wendy Moten, Pat Kerr Tigrett 2 Leighanne and Jack Soden 3 Geri and Hal Lansky 4 Morgan Freeman, Dr. Linda Keena, Trevor Benitone 5 Daniel Bean 6 Memphis Police director Michael Rallings, Linda Harris, Suzanne and Andy Hamm 7 Al Kapone, Oona Mitchell, Liza Roemer, Joe Oakley 8 Jessica Van Eyck, Demetri Kampourogiannis 9 J.W. Whitten, Al Bell, Mary Unobsky 10 Bill Morris, Connie Haynes, Henry Hooper 11 Kathy and Roger Sapp 12 Yvonne Mitchell, Willie Bland, Jimmy Mitchell 13 Russ and Lauren Graham 14 Peyton Woodson, Alston Meeks 15 Vicki and Ron Olson 16 Steve and Angel Cropper and Cindy and Jerry Willams 17 Lt. Tina Halfacre, Zayid Saleem 18 Danielle Inez and George Monger 19 Linn Sitler, Jason D. Williams, Jennifer James Wililams 20 Laura O’Mell, Jerry Phillips, Celine Lee

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OU T A ND A BOU T |

JANUARY 2020 | compiled by caroline o’connor

Elvis Birthday Celebration

1.8 - 1.10

Elvis’ Birthday Celebration

elebrate the King’s 85th birthday with four days of festivities at Graceland. Events include the Proclamation Ceremony, the display and eating of an Elvis-themed birthday cake, a trip to Tupelo, and the Elvis Birthday Bash. Don’t miss the special performances throughout the weekend, including the Tribute to Sun Studio and the Live in Concert event, which features onscreen performances by Elvis accompanied by a live band and appearances from Priscilla Presley and Jerry Schilling. Graceland, 3765 Elvis Presley Blvd. graceland.com

1.4

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Still in the holiday spirit? Take a stroll through Shelby Farms Park after dark at the BuffaGLO Run! The untimed 4k invites attendees of all ages to walk or run through the Starry Nights light displays before they are taken down for the season. All proceeds from the event beneﬁt the Shelby Farms Park Conservancy, which works to keep the park and Greenline clean and safe. Shelby Farms shelbyfarmspark.org

Grizzlies look to rebound when they take on the Houston Rockets for the second time this season. James Harden and Russell Westbrook lead the Rockets on their return to Memphis. The game is also Adoptable Pet Night at FedExForum, and the ﬁrst 1500 fans will receive the Grizzlies Team Pet Calendar, featuring pictures of players with their furry friends. FedExForum, 191 Beale St. fedexforum.com

BuffaGLO Run

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Grab your golden ticket and head to the Orpheum to see Roald Dahl’s classic story brought to life at the Orpheum. Watch as Charlie Bucket travels to the Chocolate Factory and meets Willy Wonka. The musical includes songs from the original movie like “Pure Imagination,” along with a new score from the songwriters of Hairspray. Orpheum Theatre, 203 S. Main St. orpheum-memphis.com

Eat, drink, and learn at the Memphis Pink Palace Museum’s 7th annual Science of Beer event. Sample local and regional brews like Ghost River, Wiseacre, and more while participating in guided tasting tours, beer goggle challenges, and other science experiments with beer. Food from local restaurants will also be available, including Elwood’s, Gus’s, and Swanky’s. Memphis Pink Palace Museum, 3050 Central Ave. memphismuseums.org/pink-palacemuseum

Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

The Science of Beer

Grizzlies vs. Rockets

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY JOE MURPHY (NBA PHOTOS GETTY)

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sponsored by

M u T• Food • AR

festival

• T R A

ART

c si

RT A •

April 3 - 5

On Ridgeway Loop Road

Fr 1p-7p • Sa 10a-6p • Su 11a-4p

THE CITY MAGAZINE

www.artintheloop.org presented by ArtWorks Foundation

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OU T A ND A BOU T

| JANUARY 2020 |

Booker T. Jones

1.17 - 2.8

Memphis: The Musical

Travel to the 1950s and witness the birth of rock-and-roll during Playhouse on the Square’s production of Memphis: the Musical. Filled with showstopping and singable numbers like “Steal Your Rock ‘n Roll” and “Memphis Lives in Me”, the musical is loosely based on the life of DJ Dewey Phillips and tells the story of musicians Huey Calhoun and Felicia Farell after they meet in a club on Beale Street. Playhouse on the Square, 66 S. Cooper St. playhouseonthesquare.org

Wale

1.18

Memphis native and Grammy Awardwinning artist Booker T. Jones performs at the Crosstown Theater to celebrate the release of his memoir Time is Tight. The emotional musical performance will include classics from Booker T. and the M.G.’s like “Green Onions” and new original music. Jones will also greet fans and sign copies of his memoir after the show. Crosstown Arts, 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280 crosstownconcourse.com

Hip-hop artist Wale takes the stage at Minglewood on his Everything is Fine tour. The D.C. rapper gained national attention after his 2009 release The Mixtape About Nothing, and has spent a decade proving his talent. Now promoting his sixth album, Wow … That’s Crazy, which features turns from guest artists like Bryson Tiller, Meek Mill, Rick Ross, Ari Lennox, and others, Wale is sure to impress. New singles include “On Chill,” and “BGM.” 1555 Madison Avenue minglewoodhall.com

Booker T. Jones at Crosstown Theater

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Wale

Martin Luther King Celebration Game

With FedExForum’s proximity to what is now the National Civil Rights Museum, it’s only natural that the Memphis Grizzlies have commemorated Dr. King’s life every year since 2003. This year, during their 18th Annual MLK Jr. Day Celebration game, the Grizzlies will host Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans, along with a Sports Legacy Award presentation and symposium to honor some of the very best in basketball history. FedExForum, 191 Beale St. fedexforum.com

It’s like having a doctor in the family. Dr. Lloyd Finks, M.D, is Board-certified in Internal Medicine and serves as the Medical Director and senior physician for ZüpMed.

Dr. Finks invites you to be a part of our ZüpMed family. Primary Care. ZüpMed offers patients an entirely optional, but very convenient, membership plan. For just one low monthly fee (usually less than a cell phone bill), patients and families are provided unlimited urgent and primary medical care throughout the year! Urgent Care. ZüpMed is perfect for most non-emergency illnesses and injuries. Our experienced providers are fully equipped with digital xray, a full laboratory, and modern treatment rooms. Walk right in to your reserved exam room, or experience the convenience of a telemed or home visit! Coming to Laurelwood January 2020 4576 Poplar Ave. | Memphis, TN 38117 901.701.7010 |

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zupmed.com

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More than 260 acts from around the world will gather in Memphis to compete in the 37th annual International Blues Challenge. Hosted by the Blues Foundation, the challenge searches for the best up-and-coming artists, who are judged by professionals in producing and creating blues music. Competitions are held in Beale Street clubs, culminating in the ﬁnals at the Orpheum. The Blues Foundation, 421 S. Main blues.org

Need to declutter after the holidays? KidsTown makes recycling your child’s old clothes, toys, cribs, and more easy. Plus, consignors get early access to the sale, so replace outgrown items with something new. KidsTown Agricenter International, 7777 Walnut Grove Rd. agricenter.org

Rock band Tool brings their awardwinning music to FedExForum on their North American tour. Formed in 1990, Tool has released four multiplatinum albums and traveled the world performing their heavy metal music. Now promoting their newest album Fear Inoculum, Tool is sure to play new songs and old favorites alike. FedExForum, 191 Beale St. fedexforum.com

Part of the Orchestra Unplugged series at the Halloran Centre of Performing Arts, this performance guides listeners through the evolution of music. Conductor Robert Moody and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra will take the audience on a musical journey beginning with ninthcentury Gregorian chants and ending with Frank Zappa and Mason Bates. Halloran Centre of Performing Arts, 225 S. Main St. orpheum-memphis.com/

International Blues Challenge

KidsTown

Tool

International Blues Challenge

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY ROGER STEPHENSON

The Complete History of Music: Abridged

The Complete History of Music, Abridged

It’s like having a doctor in the family. Dr. Shannon Finks, Pharm.D, is Board-certified in Pharmacotherapy and Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy and oversees Personalized Medicine practices at ZüpMed.

Dr. Finks invites you to be a part of our ZüpMed family. Personalized Medicine. Discover how your DNA can help determine the best medicines for you. Pharmacogenomic information from ZüpMed can allow patients to: Achieve more effective pain control • Better manage depression and heart disease • Be less likely to experience uncomfortable • and even deadly side effects Individualize treatment plans that work •

Coming to Laurelwood January 2020 4576 Poplar Ave. | Memphis, TN 38117 901.701.7010 |

zupmed.com

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to s ngs art is g,” are ow thi g p st nin at . kn e bi be Di th ne is th a es ic es ce ph ing and do ass ish g s em do t, ty Cl s d in M ep es s ci s, “ re din b i lo l ke es th erie xp ca do at s e lo it wh his ue the h t of In na on o y . od l D ar fo ae nd h ic ge M le

CLASSIC DINING

Happy 50th Anniversary, Huey’s! by michael donahue

l-r: Ashley Boggs Robilio, Lauren McHugh Robinson, Alex Boggs, and Samantha Boggs Dean

t seems like everywhere you turn, there’s another Huey’s. Celebrating it’s halfdecade anniversary in 2020, the restaurant is about to open a 10th location in Olive Branch in August. A big part of the classic eatery’s fame is the iconic “Huey Burger,” which has been around almost as long as the restaurant. “It’s my understanding that when my dad started working at Huey’s they were selling burgers,” says Samantha Boggs Dean, one of the four children of the late Huey’s co-owner, Thomas Boggs, who still work for the Huey’s corporation. “But Daddy started buying his meat down at John Gray’s Big Star, which was on McLean and Madison. And that’s kind of what made the burgers take off. It was great quality meat and we got it fresh every day. They

would take a grocery cart and walk down to John Gray and get the meat.” Huey’s now buys “certified Angus meat from local farmers,” Dean says. What makes the Huey Burger memorable? “I think it’s the great meat, but, also, we don’t allow our cooks to use a spatula and flatten it. Because we feel like if you flatten the meat it makes all the juices come out. That is not allowed.” But, she says, “Huey’s seasoning is what makes it. If

you eat a burger — even ours — without the seasoning, it’s not as good.” The Huey Burger has grown in size from 4 ounces to 6 ounces over the years, Dean says. The original Huey Burger was “still what it is today with cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, pickle, lettuce, tomato, and onion,” Dean says. In the early days the restaurant also offered, as it still does, the West Coast Burger (guacamole, Monterey Jack cheese on a buttered, toasted whole wheat bun) and the Smokey Melt (smoked cheddar cheese on the patty on toasted wheat bread. Huey’s now features 16 different varieties, including its newest burgers: the Mac

‘n’ Cheese Burger (white macaroni and cheese, bacon, scallions, diced tomatoes, and white American cheese served with chipotle ranch dressing on a brioche bun); and the 100 percent vegan Beyond Burger – six ounces of plant-based patty topped with gouda cheese. However, not every idea is a success, Dean says. “One of the burgers that didn’t do that great was the Hawaiian Burger. It was made with pineapple salsa, Swiss cheese, lettuce, and tomato, but it just did okay. It didn’t merit us putting it on the menu.” Huey’s Nine locations around Memphis hueyburger.com

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312 S Rhodes St. West Memphis, AR 72301 7600 Airways Blvd St B Southaven, MS 38671

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12/18/19 2:07 PM

JANUARY’S VERY SHORT STORY CONTEST WINNER

Southern Comforting by rachel e. layton

’m looking across the bar, over the rim of my second glass of Sauvignon Blanc, when I see my ex-fiancé’s mom, Jenny. I had been contemplating a third, but I now feel something heavy and slick settling inside me. She is looking down at her iPhone with a Maker’s Mark Old Fashioned in one hand. I know that it’s Maker’s Mark because that’s what Scott, her husband, would use for his own cocktails at holiday parties. Whenever I would come over and be enveloped in the warmth of a picturesque family, the wide granite kitchen counters and long, rich mahogany walls. The piano by the front entrance with its well-used keys waiting for someone’s touch to bring it all to life. I didn’t mind that they often played old hymns. The depth and richness of such a piano was beautiful enough.

Jenny sips her drink, oblivious to me. I wonder if she still owns the purple dress she wore last New Year’s. Alex passes in front of me with an already open bottle of Marlborough Valley. “More juice?” Alex calls whatever you’re drinking “juice.” I think Alex is cute. I think this and am floored by the well of guilt that rises up at thinking Alex is cute while sitting four seats apart from Jenny. It has been eight months now. It didn’t start as a break-up, but when Kim had called a few months ago to ask if she could return my dead mother’s ring, it seemed settled enough. I knew from the area code that she was calling from the landline of her parents’ Antebellum mansion. “Yes please,” I say to Alex. We have gone out twice now. She pours the wine while I watch how the veins along her thin forearm ripple under the black ink of an intricate tattoo. Jenny looks up. I see it out of my peripheral vision and turn my head towards her. It’s an automatic response to look at her when she speaks. As if she had been my own mother.

We watch each other. Jenny’s eyes sharpen on me at once, glancing at Alex. She is old Southern wealth and will not stand for causing a scene. Her highlight-infused hair looks soft in the orange halo of the bar lights. “Hi,” I say. “Jessica.” She had once told me that the reason my parents died young had nothing to do with my sins or God’s plan. Sometimes awful things happen to His creations, she had said. I ran that phrase “His creations” over and over my tongue that night as I lay in bed with Kim in our apartment in the city. Mouthing it, feeling it on my lips and noting at which syllables they brushed each other. His? Which parts of this mouth were created? Which parts of me had I chiseled out myself? “Maker’s Mark?” I ask. She doesn’t follow. “The Old Fashioned. It’s Maker’s Mark?” “Oh. Yes, it is.” Sometimes in my studio apartment I will wake up while it’s still dark, never checking the time. I’ll pick dirty socks off the floor and hand wash a couple dishes

ILLUSTRATION BY EKATERINA DEMYANOVSKAYA / DREAMSTIME

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JANUARY EVENTS THURSDAY, JANUARY 9 at 6:00 p.m. Nic Stone Clean Getaway

and straighten the pillows on the futon. When Kim told me she couldn’t do it, I had told her almost too quickly that I understood. What she’d meant was that they couldn’t do it. Her family. Still alive. Still lovely. They couldn’t handle a lesbian for a daughter. And Kim accepted their love through this limitation, and I understood that I would not be invited back for Christmas din-

SUNDAY, JANUARY 12 at 2:00 p.m. Debra H. Goldstein conversation with Jaden Terrell

Two Bites Too Many

TUESDAY, JANUARY 14 at 6:00 p.m. Alice Faye Duncan Just Like a Mama

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15 RACHEL E. LAYTON is a senior English major at the University of Memphis. Born and raised in Memphis, she has published works of poetry in online literary magazines such as Crash Test Mag and Minerva Rising. She is currently planning to graduate with a

at 6:00 p.m. Novel & Libro Present: Lit & Libations with Tara Conklin

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18 at 6:30 p.m. Spillit Slam Presented with Novel Memphis

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22

language in May 2020 before pursuing

at 7:00 p.m. A Novel Book Club: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

a master’s in creative writing.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23

BFA in English literature and German

at 6:00 p.m. Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig, and Karen White

ner. That Jenny would not stand beside me, her daughter’s “roommate,” in the kitchen washing dishes and talking about dead people, about forgiveness. “Jessica, I want you to know that Kim is very happy. She is doing well,” she pauses to check her illuminated iPhone screen. “I have prayed that.” “That’s all right.” “We understand that girls get confused.” Alex is watching us now as she polishes the rim of a Collins glass. I swallow my wine and stand to pull my jacket off the back of the barstool. I take out my wallet to pay. “I know you all really love each other,” I say. Jenny hesitates before nodding slightly. Walking to the door, I am tempted to look back. I am so tempted to go to Alex and have her hold me, to have Jenny see the harmlessness of my dirty, sinfully broken heart. Instead, I light a cigarette and walk home in the wind on Christmas Eve.

All the Ways We Said Goodbye: A Novel of the Ritz Paris

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30

SHORT AND SWEET (or not-

at 6:00 p.m. R. J. Lee Playing the Devil

so-sweet), the Very Short Story Contest welcomes entries of up to 750 words, maximum. Writers are encouraged to incorporate the city into their work. Winning stories are

Novel is the presenter of Memphis magazine’s

published in Memphis and archived on memphismagazine.com. The Very Short Story Contest recognizes ten winning entries annually, every month except February and August. The contest is presented by Novel, Memphis’ newest independent bookstore, where each winning author will be honored with a $200 gift certificate. To submit: fiction@ memphismagazine.com

Mon–Sat: 9AM–9PM Sun: 10AM–5PM 387 Perkins Ext. Memphis, TN 38117 (901) 922-5526 • novelmemphis.com J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 21

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CITY BEAT

Lulu & Bella

Meet the Memphis Zoo’s twin baby jaguars.

photograph by karen pulfer focht

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Lulu and Bella are two jaguar cubs born at the Memphis Zoo on September 4, 2019, to Philomena and Diego. They are currently on exhibit in Cat Country. J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 23

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KNOWING , ONE S PLACE MEMPHIS QUEEN III & ISLAND QUEEN

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CENTRAL STATION HOTEL

MISSISSIPPI BOULEVARD CHRISTIAN CHURCH

PHOTOGRAPH CREDITS: TOP: CAKES COURTESY MUDDY’S BAKE SHOP, CAKE TOPPERS BY DREAMSTIME. BOTTOM LEFT TO RIGHT: COURTESY MEMPHIS RIVERBOATS,

12/16/19 2:57 PM

TS,

THE

WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE

CAN SET THE TONE FOR THE ENTIRE CEREMONY. @+2

by jill johnson piper

n 30 some years of writing up weddings, it takes a lot to make me pull out my handkerchief. For years, I kept a scrapbook of badly worded headlines. My favorite came from the newspaper in Laurel, Mississippi, now the subject of HGTV’s hit show Home Town. Neighboring towns included Hot Coffee, Errata, Soso, and Tuckers Crossing. The headline read “Boy from Hot Coffee Marries Soso Girl.” So it was wildly out of character for me to tear up when church friends had their wedding reception at the Carousel Pavilion, the new attraction at the Children’s Museum of Memphis, in November. Our staff affectionately called it “My Big Fat Gay Wedding” in the days leading up to it. Our choir’s gift to them was an arrangement of “There’s a Place For Us” from West Side Story. Well, I took to blubberin’ and didn’t stop until somebody stuffed a piece of cake in my face. “Venue” comes from the Latin root venir, deﬁned “to come.” So come with us as we visit six of the most Memphis venues in town.

GRACELAND'S CHAPEL IN THE WOODS

CAROUSEL AT CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

CENTRAL STATION, MISSISSIPPI BOULEVARD CHRISTIAN CHURCH, ELVIS PRESLEY ENTERPRISES, CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF MEMPHIS, SHELBY FARMS PARK

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FEDEX EVENT CENTER AT SHELBY FARMS

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“Location is the most important decision one makes,” says Warner Moore, wedding designer and interior decorator. “Everything else radiates from that decision. People know their venue when they see it. Once it feels right to them, everything can proceed from there.” The more the couple can hone in on their preferences, the more accurate a map he can draw for them, Moore says. “Even the cleverest wedding planner cannot turn a casual space into a formal one, or vice versa. You also have to match the space to the number of guests. There’s nothing worse than having a small wedding in a big place because it looks like no one came.” Myriad elements go into creating a sense of place: lighting, color, season, formality, and the personalities of the couple. The variables are endless. The paper “save the date” card is the first hint at the wedding’s personality. Kat Gordon, owner of Muddy’s Bake Shop, sees a consistent effort to match food choices to the mood of the venue. At a barn or vineyard wedding, for example, the couple may want a pie bar for dessert. “That feels very Southern and authentic,” she says. The multi-tiered formal confection with the obligatory cake-cutting moment is rarely the centerpiece of the reception anymore. “People are thinking about the experience they want their guests to have more than a photo opportunity,” Gordon says. “They want food that’s not just edible but really tasty and represents who we are in our city.” With a seated dinner, a cake per table has become

“LOCATION IS THE MOST IMPORTANT DECISION ONE MAKES. EVERYTHING ELSE RADIATES FROM THAT DECISION.” — wa r n e r mo or e WEDDING DESIGNER A ND IN T E R IOR DEC OR ATOR

below: FedEx Event Center overlooks an 80-acre lake in Shelby Farms Park. right: Graceland’s Chapel in the Woods is ideal for a more intimate reception.

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PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY SHELBY FARMS PARK, ELVIS PRESLEY ENTERPRISES, MUDDY’S BAKE SHOP, CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF MEMPHIS

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left: Wedding cake doesn’t have to be white. Sliced layer cakes add color and variety to the guest experience. above: Couples who marry at the Carousel Pavilion have a high sense of fun.

“PEOPLE WANT FOOD THAT’S NOT JUST EDIBLE BUT REALLY TASTY AND REPRESENTS WHO WE ARE IN OUR CITY.” — k at g or d on OWNER, MUDDY’S BAKE SHOP

a Muddy’s signature. An 8-inch layer cake at each table in chocolate, lemon, or strawberry adds color and variety. What’s trending in flowers in 2020 is a little tweak on the traditional, says Eric Lee Milner of E.L.M. Designs. “Couples are wanting traditional flowers, but in unique colors. Calla lilies are a basic, but I had an October bride who chose them in dark purple and deep maroon and added a pheasant feather.” Milner predicts more saturated color in bouquets, centerpieces, and altar flowers. “You’re going to see more strong orange, lime-green, and fuschia, and less white, pink, and peach,” he says. Short of having Oprah’s money, Milner recommends brides concentrate their budget on one statement piece in a high visibility spot. “You can get more impact with one singular ‘wow’ arrangement at the entry or in the middle of your reception area than you can with an abundance of flowers all over the place,” he says. “Whether it’s a big raised arrangement on a table right when you arrive or one big arrangement in the middle of the buffet, that gives you more impact and it’s more affordable than trying to address the whole room.” In the world of wedding gifts, the charcuterie board (methinks) may be to the 2020s what the fondue set was to the 1970s. “Charcuterie boards are big, both in terms of size and in popularity,” says Brooks Terry, owner of Babcock Gifts. Since couples are marrying later in their 20s and most have lived together, many already have the household basics. With their registries, they’re

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trying to equip themselves for entertaining, also a regional phenomenon. “Our vendors love the South because we still register brides,” Terry says. “In California and on the East Coast, wedding gifts are usually cash or Venmo.” Sorry … I fainted there for a second from shock and dismay. Okay, I’m back. Another change is in the split between formal and informal dinnerware. The completion of a set of fine china was once the primary goal of every bride’s registry. Now the everyday set is the priority. “Couples have gotten a little more casual, but they still like nice stuff,” Terry says. Going into 2020, Terry sees brides choosing a fine china as the dinner plate, but for the salad plate, they’ll mix it up with some handthrown, artistic pottery. Three of the most popular lines are made nearby: Miller’s Mud comes from Dumas, Arkansas; McCarty Pottery is Merigold, Mississippi’s most famous export; and Potsalot is made on Magazine Street in New Orleans. Judaica pieces like Seder plates, Shabbat candles, and menorahs sell well year-round, regardless of the couple’s wedding date, Terry says. If you want to go rogue and choose a gift not on the registry, you can never go wrong with crystal, Terry says. “No one’s sending back a Baccarat vase or a Waterford salad bowl.”

above center: A place setting with a sense of place: Miller’s Mud salad plates come from Dumas, Arkansas. below: This column adornment by Eric Milner features strong, saturated colors.

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“YOU CAN GET MORE IMPACT WITH ONE SINGULAR ‘WOW’ ARRANGEMENT AT THE ENTRY OR IN THE MIDDLE OF YOUR RECEPTION AREA THAN YOU CAN WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF FLOWERS ALL OVER THE PLACE.” — e r ic l e e m i l n e r E.L.M. DESIGNS

@+2

A LL A BOA R D FOR CENTR A L STATION HOTEL

hat do you get when you mix newlyweds, a popular fantasy series, and Downtown’s newest ballroom? Why, the Game of Thrones wedding reception at Central Station Hotel, of course. The first couple to marry at the new hotel wed there December 29th. They chose the venue in July when it was still under construction. “Everyone was still in hard hats, but this couple saw the vision,” says Helen Nelson, director of sales and marketing for Central Station Hotel. The same could be said for McLean Wilson, the principal in the redevelopment of Central Station. He’s the grandson of Kemmons Wilson, founder of Holiday Inns, known to generations of travelers as “the nation’s innkeeper.” According to Nelson, Henry Turley first saw the potential of bringing a hotel to the South Main Arts District, and invited McLean to develop the concept. Built in 1914, Central Station still serves rail passengers boarding Amtrak’s City of New Orleans, the historic 19-hour route from New Orleans to Chicago. Wilson reimagined the former offices of the Illinois Central Railroad, Amtrak’s predecessor, as hotel rooms. But it’s the lobby and bar that bear the stamp of South Main. A tower of record albums overlooks the double turntable built into an antique organ housing. One wall holds speakers of all different shapes. Memphis music plays in the lobby and bar, and guests hear Isaac Hayes or Sam and Dave in the guest rooms. At 6,600 square feet, the Grand Hall is 33 feet high. It was the original passenger waiting room for trains for 80 years (Some of the station’s original benches can still be seen on a lower level). In the Grand Hall, Central Station’s original arrival and departure board is outlined in neon lights. Hidden uplighting can be adjusted to customize the bride’s chosen colors. Entering the hotel grounds requires driving a little south of the station on South Main and doubling back up the platform to the hotel entrance. Brides may have a challenge keeping people in the Grand Hall, because the lobby and bar have so many

PHOTOGRAPH CREDITS: PLATE COURTESY BABCOCK GIFTS, FLOWERS COURTESY E.L.M. DESIGNS

12/16/19 2:58 PM

4538 Poplar Avenue Laurelwood Shopping Center Memphis, TN 38117 Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (901) 763-0700 www.babcockgifts.com

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The

GERMANTOWN Historic Church Love yesterday, today and forever.

©Jeerey Jacobs

A table features winter whites in Central Station Hotel’s Grand Hall.

things to explore. “We’ve had inquiries about using the hotel lobby for receptions,” Nelson says, but so far the answer’s been a hard no. “We want that area to be for the neighborhood, not cordoned off for private events. We want it to feel like South Main’s living room.” Photo Credit: Allison Fay Photography

Photo Credit: Allison Fay Photography

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Germantown Historic Church is the perfect venue to celebrate the love of a lifetime. Built in 1870 and lovingly restored, the church features original hard river pine floors, vintage pew seating, and picturesque double front doors. Celebrate your union by ringing the historic bell, made by the same London foundry that cast the Liberty Bell.

Seating for up to 130 • Dedicated parking @germantownhistoricchurch • 901.516.6764

Conservative Framing Original Art Custom Framed Mirrors 540 S Mendenhhall Rd (Sanderlin) 901.767.8882 Monday-Friday 10-6 Saturday 10-4

@+2

M ISSISSI PPI BOU LEVA R D CH R ISTI A N CH U RCH

arrying at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church puts you squarely in the 25 percent of couples who marry in church, down from 40 percent just ten years ago, according to weddingwire.com. “The foremost reason to marry at a church would be to honor your faith tradition,” says the Rev. J. Lawrence Turner, senior pastor at The Blvd., as the church is known. “My view of the Christian wedding ceremony is that it is more than a celebration of two people joining their lives together. It’s of the God who joins them together. So a Christian wedding is ultimately a worship experience.” Turner officiates at 12 or 15 weddings a year, but there are other pastors on staff who solemnize vows. The Blvd. also has a full-time event planner on staff. Marrying in the church matters less than the church being in the marriage. “It is not so much where the wedding takes place or whether the church recognizes it,” says Turner. “Rather, I have found success in marriage depends on whether that couple honors Christian principles in their marriage such as unconditional love, mutual respect, honesty, fidelity, and grace.” When Bellevue Baptist vacated the sprawling campus at Jefferson and N. Bellevue in 1992, Mississippi Boulevard brought its min-

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY CENTRAL STATION HOTEL / HELEN NELSON

Photo Credit: Alex Ginsburg

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istries to the heart of Midtown. The Blvd. is home to dozens of ministries including meal distribution, wellness initiatives, Room In the Inn overnight housing for the unsheltered, pastoral care to shut-ins, and a college tour for high school seniors. Facility rental generates 11.5 percent of The Blvd.’s $6.5 million annual budget. “We are certainly open to the public to be rented out for weddings,” says Turner. “Our space is memorable for not only being the place for many weddings for our congregation for the past 26 years we’ve owned this space, but also for the previous congregation that owned the building, Bellevue Baptist.”

A stained-glass window at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church depicts a parade of neighbors winding past the Pyramid and the Hernando DeSoto Bridge.

Soaring limestone columns support the broad portico leading to Mississippi Blvd.’s two-story vestibule. Accommodating up to 3,000 guests, the sanctuary has seating on two levels. Contemporary stained-glass windows, including one depicting the Pyramid and the Hernando DeSoto Bridge, cast rose and blue highlights over the balcony. “Our chapel, which is where our smaller weddings take place, has beautiful natural light too,” Turner says.

@+2

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i t h 30 r e c ep t ions already booked for the Carousel Pavilion in 2020, the bride who wants a merry-go-round wedding had best break out ahead of the pack. Like a jewel-under-glass on permanent exhibit, the historic carousel at the Children’s Museum of Memphis, located at Central and Hollywood, is the same one that thousands of us rode as children at the Mid-South Fairgrounds, later Libertyland. “Couples that are attracted to this degree of spectacle bring a lot of vision,” says Melissa Latil, carousel events and operations manager. “There’s not a lot of middle ground for this venue. People either say, ‘I’m in’ or rule it out quickly.”

PHOTOGRAPH BY JILL JOHNSON PIPER

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Brides may choose to make their entrance around the Carousel or through the sliding double doors. At a Disney-themed reception last month, a “Tinkerbell” pulled open the doors for the first look at the couple. The staff created a Mickey Mouse dance area with a round floor and two round tables to shape the ears. Guests watched a projection of the “Happily Ever After” fireworks spectacular from the Magic Kingdom. While the Pavilion can accommodate up to 500 guests, Latil says the Carousel is ideal for weddings of about 150, which is slightly above average. According to weddingwire.com, the average guest list in 2019 included 126. Adjacent to the Carousel are a ballroom, lobby, catering kitchen, and separate dressing suites for brides and grooms. The Carousel Pavilion connects to the Children’s Museum

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of Memphis, formerly the National Guard Armory from 1943 until 1983. With a four-hour wedding rental, the Carousel runs for 2 hours. Restoration of the 100-year-old merry-go-round carved by Gustav Dentzel began in 2015, and a team of woodworkers, painters, and machinists returned it to the museum in pristine condition for its debut in December 2017. Of its 48 ponies, those on the two inner rings go up and down. The “chariots” were the first wheelchair accessible carousel seats installed in the U.S. In a three-minute ride, the guest makes 12 revolutions past scenes that evoke a Memphis of yesteryear: a paddlewheeler on the river, frontiersmen in canoes, mules plowing a farm, and deer pausing to drink from a stream. Cherubs keep watch over each rider while hundreds of Edison bulbs create a festive and photogenic vibe.

@+2

M A R ITI M E M ATR I MON Y

t doesn’t get much more Memphis than marrying on the Mississippi. Two vessels, the Memphis Queen III and the Island Queen, have launched hundreds of couples into matrimony. “I have not had a single bridezilla,” says Jodie Taube, director of marketing and events

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY MEMPHS CHLDREN’S MUSEUM BY MELISSA LATIL

Let the children boogie, as David Bowie advised. Who can resist a lighted dance floor?

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12/19/19 9:27 AM

WESTIN MEMPHIS BEALE STREET RENOVATION IS NOW COMPLETE

ENHANCEMENTS INCLUDE TECHNOLOGY, MEMPHIS-CENTRIC DESIGN ELEMENTS

estin Memphis Beale Street is proud to announce the completion of a $5 million modernization of the property’s shared and private spaces. From the time guests enter until they leave, they will experience a space reimagined with contemporary elegance and subtle hints of Memphis style. During your visit, you may notice the following changes including updated accommodations in our 203 Guest Rooms with new furniture, vinyl, carpeting and drapes. We have added mobile check-in and card touch technology to guest room doors for convenience. Our Lobby/Bar is now adorned with elevated design including a more open ﬂoorpan with new furniture, art and drumstick chandeliers. For those musically inclined guests, we offer a unique form of room service that allows our guests an electric Gibson guitar, amp and headphones to “rock out” in the privacy of their room. Jay Etkin of of Etkin Gallery lead the charge of commissioning local artists artists Pam Cobb and Nathan Yoakam to complete works for the property to reinforce ties to Memphis music and history.

“We began updating our property with Marriott’s acquisition of Starwood Hotels in September 2016, integrating Marriott’s technologies.” Says Westin Memphis Beale Street co-owner Glenn Malone. “Once completed, we were able to focus on refreshing the design and functionality of our shared and individual spaces. Design and functionality were the driving forces in these plans.” continues co-owner Glenn Malone. “Garrett Mathieu of Senate Hospitality and his team developed an unrivaled practical contemporary design and elevated it with a Memphis-centric style. Memphis is a unique city and our music is our second language!”

co-working space in the lobby, complete with available wired and wireless connection, desktop computers, charging stations and additional wall outlets. If you haven’t been in a while, see what we’ve done. Whether a leisure traveler, business traveler or convention guest, we encourage you to book your next meeting or overnight stay NOW and come take a peek at the newly renovated Westin Memphis Beale Street for yourself.

To further enhance our guests’ experiences, we have refreshed our meeting rooms overlooking Downtown Memphis and our ballrooms, which can accommodate up to 300 guests, each with new vinyl, carpeting and furniture. Our workout room touts updated wallpaper, more free weights and new, state-ofthe-art equipment. We have created a

The Westin Memphis Beale Street • 170 Lt. George W. Lee Ave., Memphis, TN 38103 • Marriott.com/memwi

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for Memphis Riverboats, Inc. Couples who book the riverboat for their rehearsal dinners or wedding receptions generally have a high sense of adventure and fun. And just like in the movies, the captain of the boat can perform the ceremony. Captain James Gilmer is an ordained minister in the Church of God in Christ. He has officiated at 16 shipboard weddings. To his knowledge, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the only African-American riverboat captain on the Mississippi. With friends from all over the country in town for their October 12th wedding, Ginger and Josh Huckaby wanted their guests to have a quintessential Memphis experience. Josh owns the Green Beetle, the oldest tavern in Memphis, and Ginger moved here from Nashville to work as a nurse practitioner at St. Jude Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Research Hospital. Ginger says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The weather was perfect, the moon was

1900 S. Germantown Road | Germantown, TN | 901-757-7373 ÂŠ2016 The Great Hall and Conference Center. Photography by Amy Hutchinson.

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full, it was Memphis to the T.â&#x20AC;? Of the two boats, the Memphis Queen III is the classic Victorian riverboat with gingerbread trim and twinkling lights. The Island Queen has a more nautical look, with an open section in the center for dancing. Both boats are 100 feet long, accommodate up to 300 guests, and are heated and air-conditioned as the season dictates. The most popular wedding package allows a half-hour for guests to board; a halfhour for the ceremony; and then two hours for cruising. The vessel departs from Beale Street Landing and heads south under the light show on the Harahan Bridge. Turning back upriver, guests can then enjoy the Memphis skyline. Then Capt. Gilmer takes the party under the light shows on the I-40 bridge, cruises past Harbortown, and returns to the landing. Riverboat weddings are available all year, but March, April, June, September, and October are the most sought-after months. Taube steers brides away from the weekends during Memphis in May because the closing of Riverside Drive limits access to parking and raises the level of difficulty in bringing decorations aboard. The temperate months also afford nicer views of each bank. Capt. Gilmer has been on the river 36 years.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY MEMPHIS RIVERBOATS INC.

A stained-glass depiction of a picturesque Mississippi River cruise.

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One of his favorite pranks is to tell Tennessee couples that it’s not too late to change their minds about matrimony. He says, “I can just carry them across the river to the Arkansas side and it won’t count.”

@+2

CH A PEL I N TH E WOODS AT GR ACEL A N D

ust a plain and simple chapel where humble people go to pray” may have been okay in 1960, but couples in 2020 want something a little more photogenic and upscale. When Elvis recorded “Crying in the Chapel,” most couples married in church. “The etiquette-bound formal wedding performed in a religious setting was the bread and butter of the wedding industry,” explains Vicki Howard in her book Brides, Inc: American Weddings and the Business of Tradition. In September, British actress Michelle Hardwick married soap producer Kate Brooks at Graceland in Memphis, according to the Daily Mail. “You’ve got to be progressive in 2020,” says Christian Ross, Graceland’s marketing specialist. More than 2,000 couples have married or renewed their vows at Graceland. The original chapel was tucked behind the mansion for 18 years, but in 2018, Graceland unveiled the Chapel in the Woods, which seats about 100. And not all the couples are Elvis fans. Many just want an intimate venue in a woodsy, but still accessible, setting. A bride might choose to have a family ceremony in the Chapel, but she can still invite more guests to a reception in the ballroom. Most recently, the chapel was featured in the Hallmark Channel’s Wedding at Graceland, released last year. That movie was the follow-up to 2018’s Christmas at Graceland, which was Hallmark’s fourth highest rated and most watched original movie in network history. Priscilla Presley had a cameo role in Wedding. Elvis and Priscilla Presley married on May 1, 1967, at the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas. Ten days later, they came home to Memphis and put on their wedding attire for a belated reception at Graceland.

@+2

SH ELBY FA R MS PA R K

eddings in barns, meadows, and vineyards have been all the rage in the magazines for the last decade, but people don’t realize that rustic simplicity comes at a price. “Sure, you have a beautiful spot, but every piece of that party must be brought in so you can look out over a meadow,” says Warner Moore, Memphis decorator and wedding designer. “When you have to import virtually everything — lighting, chairs, 38 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0

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tables — it gets expensive.” Unless you want people standing up the whole time, you’re basically building an infrastructure, Moore explains. A viable “country in the city” alternative is the FedEx Event Center at Shelby Farms Park. More than 60 couples have tied the knot there since it opened three years ago, says Kate Phillips, account executive with the Park. “You feel you’re immersed in nature, but you’re connected to the city,” she says. “We get the benefit of beautiful views, and we still have air-conditioning.” The event center faces west with floor-toceiling windows affording views of sunsets over the 80-acre lake. Natural cedar planks adorn the ceiling and look as if they might have been milled on-site. Stacked stone walls further connect the event center to the natural surroundings.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MATHIEU VAN DEN BERK / DREAMSTIME

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A grassy berm hides the view of Walnut Grove Road just a few hundred feet away. At night, the only reminder of the city is the light from Clark Tower to the southwest. A treelined field next to the center can be set for an outdoor ceremony in fair weather. Since 2007, the Shelby Farms Park Conservancy has managed the county-owned land that is five times the size of New York’s Central Park. The group needed a revenue generator like the event center, Phillips says, because the conservancy has 4,500 acres, a dozen lakes, a herd of buffalo, and the Greenline to maintain. Early this month, Starry Nights just completed its tenth year as the park’s primary fund-raiser. Long-time Memphians remember the property as “the penal farm” from the decades (1930s to early ’60s) when inmates of the Shelby County Corrections Center worked the acreage to provide food for inmates and staff. Situated at the geographic center of Shelby County, the “Heart of the Park” is just one exit away from the interstate, making it an easy drive for out-of-town wedding guests cooped up in hotels.

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BEACH TOWN The beauty of Gulf Shores, Alabama, resists the winds of change. by chris mccoy

believe people are drawn to the beach by instinct. For our distant ancestors expanding out of Africa, coastal regions provided plentiful food. Ocean breezes made the weather mild — except when big storms blew off the water. It is believed the first wave of settlers in North America worked their way down the coast of Alaska and Vancouver before spreading out over the continent.

above: The view from the pool at the Lodge at Gulf State Park. The hotel, owned by the state of Alabama, was built with the fragile coastal environment in mind. right: A family brings their dog with them as they paddle through the waterways at Gulf State Park.

Around 600 CE, members of an unknown culture scooped a kilometer-long canal from a Mobile Bay backwater now known as Oyster Bay through the dense coastal forest to Little Lagoon, which separates the thin strand of Gulf Shores, Alabama, from the mainland. This ingenious earthwork, discovered in early 2019 by University of South Alabama archaeologist Greg Waselkov and a mostly volunteer team, saved its creators from paddling their dugout canoes through 14 miles of dangerous ocean waters to get to one of the richest fishing grounds on the coast. The wildlife in these waters still draws throngs of people to Gulf Shores every year, but not in dugout canoes. Fishing boats from Orange Beach marinas squeeze through the Perdido Pass and fan out into the Gulf of Mexico to harvest the fresh shrimp, crab, and grouper that forms the base of the area’s vaunted seafood industry. Among them are tourists on deep sea charters, paying for the privilege of dipping a line into the Gulf’s depths in hopes of bringing back a big game catch. But the majority of people who come here experience the open ocean on a dolphin cruise. Mere moments after we set out from Caribe Marina on a boat crowded with families, our guide points out a graceful grey ghost in the water. We crowd towards the bow; a little kid, straining to see over the rail, asks her mother, “Where are they?” On cue, a pair of bottlenose dolphins swimming so close they almost touch breach the calm waters of Perdido Bay, grabbing a quick breath before diving back underwater. Like the humans, they’re looking for fish to eat, but they need a lot more than we do. The average dolphin spends up to one-third of its life

PHOTOGRAPH BY LAURA JEAN HOCKING

ROAD TRIP

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TOP PHOTOGRAPH BY CHRIS MCCOY / INSET PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY SAND CASTLE UNIVERSIT Y

hunting and eating, consuming 10 percent of its body weight in fish every day. This pair is a mother and child. “They have their own names that their mom gives them. They communicate using over a thousand whistles and squeaks,” says our guide. “When they’re born, their mom sings them a lullaby, and gives them their own name. We do think that the animals know why we’re here, recognize the boat, and recognize my voice. We’re out here talking to them all the time.” We and a small flotilla of tourist boats — one of them outfitted to look like a pirate caravel — chase the pod around the bridge over Perdido Pass and Robinson Island as they herd their prey into aquatic cul de sacs, but it’s really no contest. They could shake us at any time, and eventually, they grow bored and disappear like ghosts. The captain takes the boat up Bayou St. John to find the perfect spot for us to watch the sunset over the condo towers of Orange Beach.

Castles Made Of Sand

labama has 32 miles of white sand beaches. The coastline stretches from Fort Morgan, which watched over Mobile Bay until Union Admiral David Farragut damned the torpedoes in August 1864, to the Florida state line. Everything from the tide line to the sea is public beach by Alabama law, and the Gulf Shores community is very careful to keep the beach as pristine as possible. “We do a good job of sustainable tourism, keeping things in balance and in check,” says Faith Henley, public relations coordinator for Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism. That’s one thing I’ve been very impressed with since I

above: Alabama’s 32 miles of white sand beaches stretch from Fort Morgan to the Flora-Bama. Gulf State Park’s 6,500 acres of protected coastal land include two miles of pristine coastline.

got here. Not just with visitors, but with locals as well.” Few people know the beach better than Janel Hawkins, the proprietor of Sand Castle University. She says the Gulf Shores community goes to great lengths to protect the three species of endangered sea turtles which lay their eggs in nests along this stretch of coastline from mid-March until October. “During turtle season, we smash our castles,” she says. “Anything that is taller than a foot, we smash, to make it easy for them to get to their nest. We do not dig any holes during sea turtle season, because turtles will fall into the holes while they’re trying to lay their eggs.” The turtles remind us what newcomers we are. They have been nesting on this beach for about 100 million years, some of them traveling thousands of miles to get here and lay a clutch of a dozen or so eggs. Most of the juvenile turtles get eaten by predators before they reach maturity, but the loggerheads that survive will grow to an average of 200 pounds and can live more than 50 years. By law, the lighting along the shore is kept sparse, as the bright lights will disorient turtles trying to swim to safety in the deep ocean.

inset: A sand sculpture by Janel Hawkins transforms sea turtles into pumpkins. “The stronger your sand, the more details you can do, and the more daring you can get with your design,” she says. “Luckily our sand down here makes us a topﬁve sandcastle location in the country.”

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art started out as an architect, and she took an online course in historic architecture from Harvard to make her creations look more like castles. When she’s not teaching travelers, corporate team building seminars, and honeymooning couples the art of sand sculpture, her beach creations can get stranger. “I did a big hand holding a trident coming out of the sand the other day,” she says. “I did a mouth with a tongue coming out, and the mouth became a zipper, zipping up the beach.” In addition to the sand, the sun, and the peaceful roll of the waves, she says she loves the forgiving nature of her chosen medium. “The great part about sand is, if you mess up, you can cover it up and do it again. There are very few mistakes you can make that can’t be corrected. That’s definitely my kind of art. “Gulf Shores is very dedicated to maintaining a small-town feel, a small community feel,” she says. “Even though our population multiplies about eight times or so during our high season, everyone comes down here because it’s chill. It’s nice. It’s relaxing. I tell people, it’s just sandcastles, it’s just the beach.”

The Old And New

e have quite a big art community down here, but I can only take so many pictures of swordfish,” says Hawkins.

PHOTOGRAPH BY LAURA JEAN HOCKING

Hawkins grew up playing on these beaches, too. “I was always an artist, but never really with sand,” she says. “I moved to Florida for college and got a job with an established sand sculpture company. I ended up managing that business while I was in school. When I got out, I moved back home and realized that Gulf Shores and Orange Beach didn’t have anything of the sort, so I decided to make a name for myself and start sculpting.” She has seen many changes in Gulf Shores. Thousands of Gulf Shores visitors have taken “Ivan was our last big hurricane, in 2004. Preclasses from Janel Hawkins’ Sand Castle Ivan Gulf Shores and post-Ivan Gulf Shores University. “There are very few mistakes you can are completely different,” she says. “We had make that can’t be corrected,” she says. quite a lot of damage after the storm, but it allowed people to kind of have a clean slate. simplified version of concrete.” There were lots of new condos, lots of new More water mixed with the sand means beach houses. Over the years, we’ve been put stronger structures, and fluff y sand holds waon the map as the relaxed ter the best. “The stron“Over the years, we’ve been version of Panama City or ger your sand, the more put on the map as the relaxed Destin. It’s a very homedetails you can do, and town feel. Our thing is version of Panama City or Destin. the more daring you can big beach, small town.” get with your design,” It’s a very hometown feel. Our she says. “Luckily our In the summer, Hawsand down here makes kins and her team conthing is big beach, small town.” duct five classes a day, us a top-five sandcastle — Janel Hawkins seven days a week, and location in the country.” teach people how to construct castles Hawkins shows my wife and me how to superior to anything you did with a pail fill forms with wet sand to construct towers, and then carve out the details to resemble a and shovel when you were a kid. “Water medieval keep. She says her instructor in this is glue for sandcastles,” she says. “It’s a

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One of the other Gulf Shore residents making a living in the art realm is Jamie D’Cruz, owner of Hammer and Stain, a DIY art store across the bridge on the mainland. Like Hawkins, she grew up here along the sea. “My sister and I were on the first swim team in Gulf Shores,” she says. “There were only five or six of us to begin with. Now it’s a huge swim team that competes year-round.” Later, D’Cruz became one of the first woman lifeguards on the beach. She left the community after high school to see the world as a flight attendant, but recently moved back to Gulf Shores to raise her two children. “It’s always been family-oriented,” she says. “We had tons of stuff to do, but it was more of a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. It wasn’t as busy.” Hammer and Stain, a woman-owned company that began in New Jersey, helped D’Cruz realize her dream of opening an art-oriented business. She helps non-artists realize their painting dreams, and helps people create fun art pieces for their walls. Everyone from kids to seniors comes here to create something new. She does birthday parties, open paint classes, and nighttime BYOB painting parties. Since the catastrophe of 2004, the area has been steadily expanding. Now, it’s a great

place to hang out a shingle. “I was driving designed to survive the kind of hurricane that around the other day and saw three new busidestroyed its predecessor. From the refillable nesses that were coming up,” she says. shampoo bottles to the bamboo straws, everyBefore Hurricane Ivan, the Lodge at Gulf thing is designed to reduce waste. Even the State Park stood in the middle of 6,150 acres moisture removed from the air by the HVAC of unspoiled coastal habitat. “It was basicalsystem is captured, filtered, and fed into the ly just a lot of concrete that they put on the swimming pool with a beautiful Gulf view. beach,” says Kurt Fedders, the hotel’s marketEnough water is captured this way each year to fill the pool four times over. “The hotel is ing and social media manager. “It was more than twice the size of this one, although it had designed for the preservation of the sand fewer rooms. Then Hurricane Ivan came in in dunes from the winds, so that we help out the 2004 and demolished it. The state of Alabama whole area,” says Fedders. “We do everything took about 15 years to figure out what they sustainable that we can.” wanted and who they wanted to go with.” In addition to a huge conference center, The Alabama state government owns the which at the time of our visit had recently Lodge, which is ophosted a formal ball erated by Atlanta’s for 650 Marines, the “The Gulf Shores State Park hotel is Valor Hospitality hotel complex boasts designed for the preservation of the and Hilton. “I don’t four restaurants, all sand dunes from the winds, so that know another hotel serving a different kind of cuisine. that a state governwe help out the whole area. We do Perch is the f ine ment actually own,” everything sustainable that we can.” says Fedders. “Some dining option, servof our profits go to ing locally harvested — Kurt Fedders the other 22 state fish such as snapper parks in Alabama.” The new property features with saffron cream sauce in a dining room 350 rooms with views of either the Gulf on the with exquisite views. Downstairs from Perch south side or Lake Shelby on the north. For is Foodcraft, where the breakfast buffet is the Lodge, sustainable tourism is the watchextraordinary. In the lobby sits Roasted Oak, word. “That was one of the main focuses the a coffee and wine bar where you can grab a quick breakfast pastry or a bowl of oatmeal state wanted, and we were happy to do it,” with your bottomless cup of java. In the sumhe says. “The philosophy of sustainability is in almost everything.” mer, the outdoor restaurant Dragonfly serves The structure is LEED Gold certified, and up burgers and ice cream for active beach kids, and hosts a poolside bar for the adults. Fedders, who moved here to work at the hotel after nine years in Cabo San Lucas, says his new home is different from any beach town he’s ever lived in. “Gulf Shores has a cool, small-town vibe,” he says. “The people are just ridiculously nice. The Southern hospitality thing is definitely true. You’ve got mild weather, a super-clean community, low crime, good schools, and great beaches that aren’t crowded like they are over in Florida. You’re not going to have the traffic and crowds that you would over in Destin. I love the fact that Gulf State Park is here. It’s almost ten square miles. It’s a unique thing with freshwater lakes and freshwater fish. We have a complimentary bike share program, where you can take a bike up to three hours.” Walking through Gulf State Park’s trails and boardwalks, you get a sense of what the area must have looked like to the mysterious canal builders who once fished this lake. But

TOP PHOTOGRAPHS BY LAURA JEAN HOCKING / BOTTOM LEFT BY CHRIS MCCOY / BLUE ANGELS BY BONANDBON DW | DREAMSTIME

above and right: You can see the Navy’s Blue Angels demonstration squadron practice aerobatics in the skies above Gulf Shores. below: Wine on the patio at Perch, the ﬁne dining restaurant located in the Lodge at Gulf Shores.

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top left, bottom right: The Hangout started as a hippie beach bar in the 1960s. Now it is the center of one of North America’s most prestigious music festivals. top right: The famous Flora-Bama honky tonk straddles the state line. bottom left: Dolphin cruises set out from the Carbe Marina in Orange Beach.

while the seafood is equally fresh, they never had the range of options contemporary visitors have. At Picnic Beach, you can get a tuna poké bowl and play board games with your friends. The Flying Harpoon, an old-school, creole-inspired fish and beer joint overlooking a little lagoon, serves up a killer fried flounder basket with hand-cut potato chips. The recent history of the area is encapsulated by The Hangout. Begun in the 1960s as a hippie bar on the beach, today The Hangout is a sprawling complex with music stages, patios, and an enormous dining room decorated with a wall of vintage Pez dispensers. It’s also the epicenter of one of the country’s most prestigious music festivals. Hangout Music Festival attracts more than 40,000 people for three days of bands of all kinds. It has hosted musicians such as Tom Petty, the Foo Fighters, Stevie Wonder, and OutKast. This year’s festival, scheduled for May 15-17, features headliners The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Ellish, Post Malone, and Lana Del Ray. On the other end of the island is the famous Flora-Bama, a honky tonk that straddles the state line. It was destroyed by Ivan, but the debris was salvaged and the place rebuilt on stilts to withstand a storm surge.

Sky Show

n certain days when you walk on the beach, you’re likely to be treated to one of Gulf Shores’ strangest, and loudest, surprises. The Blue Angels flight demonstration team is based just down the beach at the Pensacola Air Station, and they practice just off shore. You can be strolling on the beach and suddenly four fighter jets roar overhead, their wingtips separated by inches. But that’s not the only sky show available in Gulf Shores. The low light conditions maintained for the turtles means lots of stars are visible at night, with meteors whizzing overhead. But the best is the sunsets. As my wife and I walked out on the pier at sunset, I told her about the “green f lash,” an atmospheric phenomenon that occurs after sunset where a green after-image of our life-giving star brief ly hovers above the horizon. You need still air and long, uninterrupted sight lines to see it. I had long tried and failed to catch a glimpse of it, but as we stood holding hands with anglers on either side, it suddenly appeared — Mother Nature saying goodnight to one of her most beautiful creations.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY LAURA JEAN HOCKING

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REmodel

Your 2020 Guide to Making the Most of Your Space Not happy with the look of your home? Luckily, there are several qualified remodeling professionals in Memphis you can depend on to turn your dream home into a reality. In the Winter 2020 edition of Remodel Memphis, we highlight the reconstruction and major renovations to a damaged Midtown home and a total transformation to a master bathroom in Cordova. — by Julia Baker J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 47

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President’s Message By John Catmur

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s the 2020 president of the West Tennessee Home Builders Association, I’d like to say that we are again very grateful to Contemporary Media for producing another issue of Remodel Memphis. This special John Catmur section in Memphis magazine is now in its third year. It allows us a way to show that remodeling projects – large and small – can really change the appearance as well as functionality of your home. Do-it-yourself (DIY) projects have skyrocketed in recent years on the heels of popular home improvement shows and publications. And, for certain small projects, a DIY project can be rewarding and fun, if you are prepared and have the proper skills. But before you start knocking down walls and taking out wiring, ask yourself the following questions: ◗◗ Do you have a clear idea of what you want the project to look like? ◗◗ Do you have the time to complete this project (be realistic)? ◗◗ Have you ever undertaken a project like this before? ◗◗ Do you know everything you will need (materials, tools, etc.) to complete the project? ◗◗ Are you familiar with the applicable building codes and permits? ◗◗ Do you enjoy physical labor? ◗◗ Do you have the necessary skills for this project? ◗◗ If not, do you have the time and resources to learn these skills? ◗◗ Where will you obtain the necessary materials? ◗◗ If you cannot complete the project according to your original schedule, are you (and your family) prepared to handle the resulting inconvenience? ◗◗ Will you need assistance with this project? If so who will assist you? Do they have the time and skills required for this project? ◗◗ Do you understand the safety issues (i.e., lead paint, asbestos, or job site dangers)? ◗◗ Are you familiar with the architecture and structural makeup of your home (i.e., how knocking down one wall will affect the rest of the structure)? ◗◗ Have you considered the hidden costs associated with doing it yourself – time, tools, and the possibility that you may actually decrease the value of your house if the result isn’t up to a professional standard? It is easy to look at the cost of hiring a professional remodeler and think only of labor and materials. But remember that a professional remodeler offers you an important service – years of experience, the right tools, a network of suppliers and subcontractors, and an in-depth understanding of legal regulations, cost estimating, scheduling, and the latest construction techniques and materials. To find a list of WTHBA Remodeler members, please go to the West Tennessee Home Builders Association web site at www.westtnhba.com. You can also search the National Association of Home Builders Directory of Professional Remodelers, www.nahb.org/remodelerdirectory, to find a remodeler with the experience, educational qualifications, and knowledge to do the job right – the first time.

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Remodelers Council By Eric Catmur

Chairman, Remodelers Council of West Tennessee Home Builders Association

Have you looked at your trees lately?

hank you for taking time to read this edition of Remodel Memphis. We hope you find value in our experiences and stories relating to the remodeling world. Remodeling is a billionEric Catmur dollar industry in America, creating new jobs and opportunities all over the country. While building a brand-new custom home is a very exciting and demanding process, remodeling an existing home can be a bit more economical, while also allowing families to stay in their homes longer. As the kids move out and the parents grow older, the needs of the family change. From theaters and exercise rooms to handicap-accessible showers and entrance ramps, remodelers are equipped with the tools and skills to take on any project. One of the main focuses of a remodeler is the term “aging in place.” Aging in place is perfect for older customers who are at the point in their lives where they need to make their house a little safer without having to make the big step to a retirement facility. The West Tennessee Home Builders Association offers courses with a program known as CAPS, the Certified Aging in Place Specialists. Our remodelers also incorporate Universal Design, which involves the use of products and environments that are designed to be used by all people. With that, our association members are ready and willing to assist in this aging process. Some of the most common renovations include: ◗◗ Kitchen and bathroom work ◗◗ Altering existing rooms to fit a new role ◗◗ Widening doorways and hallways ◗◗ Installing brighter lighting ◗◗ Adding hand rails and grab bars to help prevent falls ◗◗ Changing floor coverings to add traction ◗◗ Installing ease of reach systems Remodelers are also very useful for first-time home buyers. In most cases, the first house that someone buys will not be exactly perfect. With our help, the customer can come up with a plan and budget to tackle the most important issues with a home. Often times a customer will do their work in multiple phases, which takes off a considerable amount of stress after making such a large investment. Remodelers and builders are trained to understand the unique needs of all customers without sacrificing the aesthetic value of the home. Members of the WTHBA Remodelers Council provide the best quality service and expertise, assuring the customer is in good hands when working on a remodel. If you are planning on remodeling your home, we can provide useful information on the do’s and don’ts of the process, keeping the headaches to a minimum and the production to the maximum

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English Revival Becky Rothrock made the best of a natural disaster with a remodel on the front half of her house. PROJECT 1 BEFORE

Builder: RKA Construction By Julia Baker

uring the summer of 2017, Dr. Becky Rothrock, a radiologist in Memphis, had recently returned to her home in Memphis to complete her residency following the completion of a year-long fellowship in New York. After six weeks of unpacking, she was ﬁnally all settled in. That is, until one day, while she was at work, she got a call from a neighbor telling her that a tree had fallen on her house. Upon initial inspection, she thought it looked like minimal damage. “At ﬁrst, when I drove up to the house, I was like, ‘Oh, it’s just kind of caught up on the roof. It’s not so bad,’” she says. “I had expected it to have gone completely through the house to the ground. I was

relieved for about three days until they took the tree off and I saw the damage.” To her dismay, the entire front of the house was tilted, walls were cracked, and the stairs were pulled away from the house. Although the repairs needed were extensive, Rothrock saw this disaster as an opportunity to change aspects of the interior and exterior design of her home that she didn’t like. So, she reached out to RKA Construction to do the repairs and remodeling. “They were building houses down the street, and I thought they looked really nice,” she says. To her surprise, RKA got back with her promptly, and they recommended architect David Anderson for the design plans. By January 2018, after a few months of developing a solid design plan

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and getting estimates from the insurance company, project manager Hans Bauer and the rest of the team at RKA were able to get to work on the house’s “English Revival.” “It’s always been an English style house, but the ‘Revival’ was sort of the rebirth that we gave it,” says Bauer. Before they could put this rebirth into action, they needed to ﬁx the structure of the front half of the house. “The structure itself on the whole front was really damaged,” says Bauer. “We had to really strip it back to the studs and then reframe it to get it structurally sound.” So, using materials supplied by Thrifty Building Supply, the team rebuilt the framing of the house according to the new design plans.

Outside, a new roof plan was developed, and shingles were replaced with Owens Corning Oakridge asphalt shingles supplied by Travis Rooﬁng Supply. On the facade of the house, new textured bricks supplied by Christie Cut Stone were added, and the entire exterior was painted white, to match the new front bricks with the existing bricks on the back of the house. The front door was moved from the center of the house to the left and replaced with a new door supplied by Grandview Window and Door. In front of it, a new, covered terrace and blue stone paving supplied by Christie Cut Stone were installed. Inside the front entry, to allow for a more open and liveable space, an existing sunroom was turned into a foyer with a window seat and a coat closet. A cased opening connects this area to a more deﬁned dining P H O T O GR A P HS C O UR T E S Y RK A C O NS T RU C T I O N

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AFTER

and living space with a new study off of the dining area, reconfigured kitchen space, and a second fireplace. The study, separated from the dining area by a pocketed door, features custom wall paneling and trim constructed by RKA’s carpenters. And, in the living room, a new fireplace with a limestone surround (supplied by Christie Cut Stone) and a new bay window (Lincoln Windows brand supplied by Grandview Window and Door) were added. A double staircase in the center of the house was removed and replaced by a single staircase, making space for a larger kitchen area. “Before, the kitchen was linear and ran along the side of the house, and it was narrow,” says Bauer. So, with more room to work with,

the team was able to add a full-sized island perfect for entertaining guests; and, off the kitchen, a butler pantry and a scullery were built. These rooms were outfitted with white cabinets supplied by Byler Woodcraft that were topped with Bianco Rhino Marble countertops. Connected to the kitchen area is a new side entry with a dog door to allow members of the Rothrock family and their pets to enter the house from a parking area in the back. From this side entry, family members and guests can access the new single staircase that leads upstairs. The floor plan upstairs stayed the same, except for ceilings that were modified to fit with the new roof plan, and Rothrock’s daughter’s large bedroom was separated

by a partial wall to create a separate lounge area next to her bedroom. All rooms in the house were updated with white oak hardwood ﬂoors supplied by Mid-South Flooring, recessed and canned lighting installed by Graham’s Lighting, and wall paint in Benjamin Moore’s Reserved Pewter, Charleston Grey, and Jack Frost colors. Rothrock was able to move back in by November 2018, and she was pleased, not only with the ﬁnished product, but also her overall experience with RKA Construction. “They are a well-oiled machine,” she says. “I’ve never had a building experience like I’ve had with RKA. I didn’t have to do a whole lot. I was very lucky in that I picked a great architect and a great building company, and they work really well together on top of that, so it couldnt have been easier.”

OPPOSITE: When a fallen tree damaged the front half of Becky Rothrock’s Midtown home, she enlisted the help of RKA Construction’s Hans Bauer and independent architect David Anderson to bring her home back to tip-top shape while changing aspects of the interior and exterior design she wasn’t happy with. ABOVE: The finished result of Rothrock’s newly renovated home includes reconfigurations to the facade and dining and living areas, additions to the kitchen, and a new fireplace.

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A Masterful Remodel at Boyle’s Grove A Cordova home gets a complete master bathroom rehaul. PROJECT 2 BEFORE

AFTER

Builder: John Heard By Samuel X. Cicci

hen John Heard was working on a Boyle’s Grove home in the River Edge subdivision in Cordova back in 1988, he glanced at the unsold, heavily wooded lot across the way and chuckled at whoever had decided to purchase the rough plot of land. Fast forward several decades, and you’ll ﬁnd that the deed to 8981 Summer Grove carries Heard’s signature. While redeveloping the property seemed daunting, Heard, who runs John Heard Company, had plenty of experience. “One day, I just looked over and realized I knew how to approach it,” he says. “It was heavily wooded, hilly,

had drainage issues, and many other situations that constituted what we in the industry call a ‘dog walk,’ because there’s a lot of expense necessary. Luckily, I was able to put the house in with minimal lot and preparation work.” The reward was a 3,200-square-foot house situated on the biggest lot in the subdivision. Having previously worked on the kitchen, Heard decided that the next step would be to tackle the master bathroom. “It still had that late 1980s look,” says Heard. “This is a true remodel, as the layout of the bathroom did not change. We had carpet in the lobby area, and it looked tired and dated.” Heard and his wife, Adella, took out the

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original wallpaper and the furr downs over the vanity. The acrylic jacuzzi and eight-inch platform it rested on were removed along with the old vanity and top. Heard’s original marble shower was completely gutted, and they widened the shower door frame. When designing the room, the Heards consulted with decorator Whitney Joiner. Luckily, their visions matched, so they got to work bringing a new look for the master bathroom. “Adella and Whitney went over to Ferguson Plumbing to pick out all the fun stuff,” says Heard. “We rebuilt the shower with new nickel Delta Dryden ﬁxtures and expanded the door from 24 inches to a little over 30 inches. We set

it up with nice tile walls and ceilings, and inserted a pebbly floor.” An extra feature that Heard included was a bench with handle bars. “I had two knee replacements last year, so those bars are particularly handy.” For tubs, the Heards looked at various options before selecting a Signature Hardware cast-iron tub. “We ended up getting one that both my wife and I preferred. It’s got a base that sits flat on the floor, and an accent color that we had factory painted so that it would complement the other colors in the room.” To replace the carpeting, they chose Square Feet Tile and Stone, with ceramic tiles from Venice Tile. The new, taller vanity, designed by Dennis Headley, P H O T O GR A P HS C O UR T E S Y JUS T IN F O X BURK S

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BEFORE: According to John Heard, the original bathroom looked very dated. Design choices that were once popular, like the carpeted floor and the use of furr downs, made the design look tired. AFTER: Upon completion of the twomonth remodeling job, the Heards’ bathroom sported a much sleeker, modern look. The carpet was pulled up to make way for tile, while the new shower had been completely redone. The cobblestone floor supported tiled walls and a bench with handlebars, the latter being a crucial feature after Heard underwent two knee surgeries.

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features a marble top from Stone City and more Delta Dryden faucets. The old commode made way for an ADA Height elongated toilet bowl. Mirrors, and the frameless shower door, were provided by Jackson Glass. Meanwhile, Graham’s Lighting Fixtures replaced the eight-inch recess cans with four-inch Halo LED cans. The overall master bathroom remodel took between two and three months. “It might have taken a little extra time because Adella was out of town when there were some decisions to be made. I was also recovering from knee surgery when they installed the countertop. But that was no problem, I can supervise from the bed as easily as I can supervise from a pickup truck.” As for the cost, Heard estimates that it totaled between $30,000-35,000. “It’s almost impossible to do a bathroom job for under $20,000, even if you’re just replacing it and not relocating it.” To help out with the work, Heard hired subcontractor Thurman Kee (who originally

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Adella Heard, along with decorator Whitney Joiner, visited Ferguson’s to pick out Delta Dryden faucets for the new sink. Meanwhile, the marble countertop came from Stone City.

framed the house) and his nephew Carleton Kee. Heard also used the services of Darrell Guy Electric, Quality Plumbing, and Young’s Sheetrock Service. The finished product is a much more modern-looking master bathroom, and the window above the tub provides a scenic view of the surrounding woods. And, as a personal flourish, Heard placed one of his very own paintings (tentatively titled Hazel’s Garden) in the master. “I studied art, among other things, in college. I figured it was more practical to be a contractor, but sometimes I’ll pick up the brush and the easel.” With yet another remodeling job under his belt, Heard is pleased with his current residence. “I’m 63 now, and I’ve been in this house since I was 33,” he says. “I’ve enjoyed this house, and this location, because I can get to anywhere in Shelby County within 25 minutes or less. And that comes in real handy for when I have a job.”

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HOW DO YOU FEEL? Not so great? Then what did you eat? Your diet can impact your overall wellness.

by jane schneider

o you think much about what you eat and how it makes you feel? Science has long recognized the connectivity between the brain and gastrointestinal system, which, after the brain, is the body’s largest nervous system. But researchers are in the early stages of investigating the gut’s microbiome, the millions of microbes that live in our intestines and communicate with the microbes in our brain daily. The understanding that our inner ecosystem of bacteria and other organisms can actually “speak” to our brain and influence things like bowel movements, perception of pain, and even our mood is a relatively new one. How these two important organs communicate with each other and what it means may help people with GI problems and other health concerns.

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cientists are interested in that link, notes Jay Pasricha, M.D., director of the Johns Hopkins Center for Neurogastroenterology, whose research on the enteric nervous system has garnered international attention. “The enteric nervous system doesn’t seem capable of thought as we know it, but it communicates back and forth with our big brain — with profound results,” he says on the John Hopkins website. This sharing of information between the intestines and the brain has many researchers working on better understanding how our gut health impacts our mental health. “For decades, researchers and doctors thought that anxiety and depression contributed to these problems. But our studies and others show that it may also be the other way around,” Pasricha says. Researchers are uncovering clues that suggest irritation in the gastrointestinal system may be sending signals to the central nervous system (CNS) that trigger mood changes. “These new f indings may explain why a higher-than-normal percentage of people with IBS and functional bowel problems develop depression and anxiety,” Pasricha says.

Your body responds to the food you eat every day, whether it’s by giving you the energy you need or the heartburn you don’t. Learn to listen to your gut.

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SEVEN WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR GUT HEALTH TODAY ◗ CUT DOWN ON PROCESSED FOODS. Our bodies aren’t designed to metabolize the amount of animal fat, red meat, and highly processed foods our diets consist of today. Think about your daily intake of meat, then reduce the serving size or replace it entirely with poultry, fish, or a vegetable dish. Avoid heavily fried foods. And pledge to eat three servings of fruits and vegetables every day. ◗ AVOID ARTIFICIAL FLAVORINGS. These include emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners, and fructose corn syrup, additives the food industry relies heavily on to make products more appetizing. Yes, non-nutrient sweeteners may help on the weight-loss front but their intense sweetness can fool your taste buds into thinking the natural sweetness found in fruits and veggies isn’t enough. The upshot? You turn to artificially sweetened foods over natural ones. Read food labels more closely and learn the 54 different names sweeteners go by, then cut them out of your diet for better health. ◗ GET MOVING. Whether you walk, play a sport, or ride your bike, “Doing some sort of daily activity is important,” says Dr. Mark Corkins. “That helps with your GI health.” ◗ DIVERSIFY FOOD CHOICES. Do you find yourself reaching for the same handful of foods every day? One way to improve your gut health is to diversify the types of foods you eat. Instead of having toast and coffee for breakfast, why not try peaches with oatmeal? Another easy switch is a half-cup of Greek yogurt with fresh blueberries and almonds, flavored with a dash of cinnamon. Poached eggs are a great nutritional breakfast item, one rich in protein.

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◗ LEARN TO LISTEN TO YOUR GUT. Your body responds to the food you eat every day, whether it’s by giving you the energy you need or the heartburn you don’t. Pay attention to how you feel after eating a meal. Gastrointestinal issues such as chronic constipation, gas, or bloating can be an indication that certain foods don’t work well with your GI system. Identify what these foods are. For example, garlic and onion can be a digestive problem for some people, dairy or wheat products for others. Know your body and eliminate problem foods from your diet. “When food is killing you, that’s not living well,” says dietician Linda Pennington. ◗ TRY RELAXATION PRACTICES LIKE YOGA AND MEDITATION. Since an unhappy gut can be made worse by stress, try practicing yoga or learning how to meditate. Corkins recently attended a medical conference where two papers presented showed positive evidence that yoga can help with IBS “because it teaches people how to focus and relax,” he says.

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◗ TRY NEW WAYS TO PREPARE VEGETABLES. Many nutritionists believe a plantbased diet is healthier, but if you’ve still boiling your veggies, you’re cooking away their goodness. Roasting broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts gives these staples a hearty, robust flavor. Spread your vegetables on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, flavor with rosemary and thyme, then roast in a 400-degree oven for 20 minutes until al dente. Another option is to bake a butternut squash. You’ll be surprised by its rich, mellow flavor. Sweet potatoes, too, are a vitamin-rich vegetable that don’t have to be smothered in marshmallow goo to be tasty. Next time, simply bake one and serve with a dab of butter.

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t was a European vacation Butts took with her husband in July 2015 that proved to be her wake-up call. Traveling through Italy where she ate a diet heavy in breads and pasta sent her GI tract into overdrive. In addition to the discomfort of abdominal pain and irregularity, she’d experienced brain fog, which caused her to lose words. Once home, Butts knew she had to make a change. Her symptoms led to depression and a fear of traveling. “I didn’t want to go out anywhere because I didn’t know when those episodes would happen,” she says. “It became a psychological issue. The unpredictability of my stomach issues created a lot of stress.” After doing extensive reading, Butts decided to try a gluten-free diet and made an appointment to see her internist a month later. “When I got off gluten, in six weeks to two months, I was like a different person. I wasn’t losing words anymore. It was like someone had opened a curtain and I could see again,” she says. Her internist sent Butts to a gastroenterologist, yet he was dubious initially about the food connection. “He listened but he discounted what I had to say,” she says. Further testing revealed a bacterial overgrowth in her small intestine (SIBO), a condition treated with antibiotics (she takes an herbal antibiotic) and one she’ll need to continue to manage. She also did an elimination test called the FODMAPs diet with her dietician to help zero in on specific foods her body can’t break down properly, thus contributing to her symptoms. “There are so many things that can effect the gut,” says dietician Linda Pennington

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REFERENCES: 1. Fight Colorectal Cancer. About Colorectal Cancer. Facts and Stats. https://fightcolorectalcancer.org/prevent/about-colorectal-cancer/facts-stats. Accessed July 27, 2018. 2. American Cancer Society. Survival Rates for Colorectal Cancer, by Stage. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html. Accessed July 27, 2018. 3. BĂŠnard F, Barkun AN, Martel M, von Renteln D. Systematic review of colorectal cancer screening guidelines for average-risk adults: Summarizing the current global recommendations. World Journal of Gastroenterology. 2018;24(1):124-138. http://dx.doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v24.i1.124. 4. Williams, R., White, P., Nieto, J., Vieira, D., Francois, F., & Hamilton, F. (2016). Colorectal Cancer in African Americans: An Update: Prepared by the Committee on Minority Affairs and Cultural Diversity, American College of Gastroenterology. Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology, 7(7), e185. http://doi.org/10.1038/ctg.2016.36. 5. American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Media backgrounder on Colorectal Cancer Screening. https://www.asge.org/home/about-asge/newsroom/media-backgrounders-detail/colorectal-cancerscreening. Accessed July 27, 2018. 6. American Cancer Society. American Cancer Society Updates Colorectal Cancer Screening. http://pressroom.cancer.org/releases?item=770. Accessed July 27, 2018. 7. Pan J, Xin L, Ma Y-F, Hu L-H, Li Z-S. Colonoscopy Reduces Colorectal Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Patients With Non-Malignant Findings: A Meta-Analysis. The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2016;111(3):355-365. https://dx.doi.org/10.1038%2Fajg.2015.418.

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901 HE A LTH

with Dietician Associates in Germantown. “The foods we eat, illness, medication, stress.” Since the gastrointestinal tract is the biggest part of the immune system, what we eat can impact our overall wellness, says Pennington. As a dietician, Pennington helps people identify those foods that might be having a negative impact on their health. Using tools like the elimination FODMAPs diet can help patients better understand the challenges some foods present.

A HELPING HAND AT HOME

THE IMPACT OF DIET

hough it may seem obvious to some, it’s not a connection everyone makes, observes Mark Corkins, M.D. division chief of pediatric gastroenterology at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. He says parents will often bring in a child who drinks Starbucks coffee or pours half a bottle of hot sauce on their food and not understand why they’re complaining of belly pain. “Coffee and spicy foods are stimulants, so that activates the GI tract,” he says. “Our body gives us clues, and we just want to ignore them.”

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— Mark Corkins, M.D. Pinpointing how those foods affect the flora (the “good” bacteria that help our bodies digest food) of the gut and how that is communicated to the brain will take time. “There are so many influences: diet, stressors, what’s going on in our lives. All of these have input on how the GI tract works. That’s what makes it hard to study,” says Corkins. “That’s why it’s so muddy.” But practitioners like Corkins and Pennington believe further research may provide answers and potentially better understanding of the mind-gut connection. In the meantime, both recognize the importance of treating patients holistically, by listening to their stories to better understand not just their symptoms, but what other factors, such as stress and lifestyle choices, may be having on their overall health. “There is no one diet that fits everybody,” says Penningtson. “It can be helpful, but we must look at the person as a whole.” Today, Butts reports she has good days and bad. “But there’s no comparison to what it was like. I’m not awake thinking about my stomach.” Though her IBS issues may never be fully resolved, learning how to manage them better has improved her overall outlook. As research continues, that prognosis may one day prove to be better.

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GARDEN VARIETY

Tangled up in Blue Plant lists in January are dominated by flowers with blue blooms.

by john a. jennings

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOHN A. JENNINGS

ike many people, I sometimes struggle with depression. Often, it is at its greatest depths in the dark days of winter. I know this time is coming each year and get through it with a variety of resources and techniques. In January, because there are so few days I can work outside, I focus on garden designs for my clients. One of the best things for getting me through January is visualizing their beautiful gardens, fully leafed-out and in bloom the following spring and summer. A good garden has year-round interest. It also has a symphony of color that starts at the tail end of winter and builds to a crescendo in early June, before plateauing into early fall. I had a recent conversation with Suzy Askew, a local I have now been in the garden design business long enough that I’ve built up a portfolio of completed projlandscape architect, about the subject of blue flowering ects. So, as I was contemplating what to write about, I plants mentioned in her book, Tennessee Native Plants: A pulled out projects I had designed in Book of Lists. She wrote, “True blue in “True blue in the flower January in previous years. I’m not sure the flower world is rare. Himalayan why, but it seemed like a good idea to Poppy is always cited as being true world is rare. Himalayan turn to those projects for inspiration. blue. Most others are violet to lavenPoppy is always cited der but called blue.” When looking for commonalities, I found that the plant lists I created for So, what are some blue flowering as being true blue. Most clients in January were overwhelmplants that do well in Memphis? others are violet to ingly dominated by plants with blue First, I love catmint, the various lavender but called blue.” blooms. I suppose this should not be plant species in the Nepeta genus. The surprising, that I designed in shades leaves produce a wonderful scent and — Suzy Askew of blue while listening to sad songs by the flowers appear blue enough to me. Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson. But, it got me thinking Like catnip, also in the Nepeta genus, the catmints conabout blue blooms and about compiling a list of what tain nepetalactone (a substance known to attract cats), plants I have the best luck with in creating shades of albeit not as much of it. Hence, its name. blue for a garden. The most common type of catmint in our area seems to

top: Agapanthus ‘Galaxy Blue’ (Lily of the Nile, African Lily) above: Agastache ‘Blue Boa’ (Giant Hyssop)

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be Nepeta racemosa ‘Walker’s Low.’ Others I like include ‘Six Hills Giant’, ‘Early Bird,’ ‘Purrsian Blue,’ and ‘Blue Wonder.’ One cultivar that I’ve been itching to try, but have not yet gotten a specimen of, is the new dwarf version of “Walker’s Low,” by Monrovia, ‘Junior Walker.’ What I find most attractive in catmint is its versatility. It makes a wonderful long border in a full sun perennial garden, but it can also do okay in part sun, sometimes even in what some would think of as part shade. It can work as a single specimen too. Moreover, because it is incredibly cold hardy, it does very well in outdoor container arrangements. A similar plant, one that is easy to confuse with catmint, is Russian sage, a plant in the Perovskia genus. Unlike many catmints, it is an exclusively full sun plant. My favorite cultivar, perhaps because I design a lot of small gardens, is Perovskia atriplicifolia ‘Little Spire’. Topping out at only 18-24 inches tall and wide, it really excels in gardens where the scale of

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everything is tightened. But, what about blue for shade? Well, there’s always the various cultivars of Hydrangea macrophylla that, when the soil is acidic enough, will produce richly blue blooms. My favorite of these is ‘Nikko Repeato,’ a repeat blooming version of the very common ‘Nikko’ cultivar. (See my February 2019 column on caring for Hydrangea.) A more unusual, less known choice for blue blooms in shade is the evergreen groundcover and native, Phlox divaricata. I’m especially fond of the cultivar, ‘Blue Moon.’ Commonly known as Blue Moon Woodland Phlox, with a spread of 8-12 inches and a height of 12-18 inches, it can tuck nicely into tight spaces, between roots or rocks, in woodland style under-canopy gardens. But, if you really want a deep, rich, true blue groundcover, for full sun to part shade, try Ceratostigma plumbaginoides. Commonly known as “Hardy Blue Plumbago” or “Leadwort,” it gets 8-12 inches tall, with a spread of 12-18 inches. When I queried the regionally

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOHN A. JENNINGS

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Grenikre’ (Nikko Repeato Hydrangea)

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well-known expert in herbaceous perennials, Jeanne Guidi, owner of Melodia Hill Plant Farm in Jackson, Tennessee, about her favorite blues, this was the very first plant she mentioned. She effusively praised it. Finally, if you’d like a blue blooming small tree for full sun, perhaps as a nice focal point for a butterfly garden, consider Vitex agnus-castus ‘Shoal Creek.’ Also known as Chaste Tree, it can grow anywhere from 4-15 feet tall and 4-12 feet wide, depending upon

You choose the best for your family, vote for your favorites in the

If you really want a deep, rich, true blue groundcover, for full sun to part shade, try Ceratostigma plumbaginoides. Commonly known as “Hardy Blue Plumbago” or “Leadwort,” it gets 8-12 inches tall, with a spread of 12-18 inches.

2020

Ceratostigma plumbaginoides (Hardy Blue Plumbago a.k.a. Leadwort)

how it is pruned. A deciduous tree, many people are planting Vitex instead of crape myrtle, because of the scale insect that has plagued that tree in recent years. I think it makes a particularly nice substitute for the Catawba crape myrtle, Lagerstromia indica ‘Catawba,’ because it is similar in scale and coloring, but without the susceptibility to insect damage. There are of course, other blue blooming plants that do well in Memphis, including Agapanthus ‘Galaxy Blue,’ Polemonium reptans ‘Stairway to Heaven,’ Agastache ‘Blue Boa,’ Agastache ‘Blue Fortune,’ Scabiosa ‘Butterfly Blue,’ and Mazus reptans, just to name a few. What are some of your favorite blue blooming plants that do well in Memphis? As always, please feel free to email me at gardener@ memphismagazine.com. John A. Jennings is an experienced garden designer, garden writer, and nursery manager. He also has degrees from both the University of Richmond and the University of Memphis.

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ASK VANCE

Don Briscoe Our trivia expert solves local mysteries of who, what, when, where, why, and why not. Well, sometimes. DEAR VANCE: Several years ago, you wrote about Lara Parker, the Memphis actress who starred in the hit TV series Dark Shadows. What can you tell me about Don Briscoe, her co-star on that show? — c.r., memphis.

In our July 2016 issue, when I shared the story of Lara Parker, I tried to explain the plot of Dark Shadows, which aired from 1966 to 1971. I gave up, admitting, “It’s impossible to describe, but the show basically focused on the witches, warlocks, vampires, and other unsavory characters who came to inhabit the normally sleepy village of Collinsport, Maine.” Four of those characters were played by Don Briscoe, a talented actor who was so popular with the fans of the show that, even when he was killed off (not an easy thing to do with vampires, though they are indeed susceptible to wooden stakes), he was brought back, time and again. DEAR C.R.:

Cecil Donald Briscoe was born on March 20, 1940, in the tiny village of Scobey, Mississippi, about two hours south of Memphis. While he was in his teens, his family moved here, where his father took a job as a service manager for Firestone, and his mother worked in admissions at the old City of Memphis Hospital. He and his sister, Bonny, apparently enjoyed a middle-class existence here, growing up in a cozy house at the corner of Lyndale and Hudson in the Highland Heights neighborhood and attending Treadwell High School. The various biographies and websites I’ve researched say that Briscoe left Treadwell at the beginning of the 11th grade and transferred to Phillips Exeter Academy, a quite prestigious private school in Hanover, New Hampshire. This abrupt move puzzled me, but my pal John Beifuss, in a newspaper tribute written years ago, claims that the young man won a scholarship to Phillips from the Memphis Press-Scimitar — though it’s not clear what he did, exactly, to earn it. I must say here that C.R., once she learned I was scribbling this column, served as my research assistant, and contacted that school. As one might expect, administrators there wouldn’t talk about his grades, or whether he played on any athletic teams. At the same time, they responded, “He was quite active in student organizations. He wrote for the Pendulum literary magazine and was vice president of the debating society, secretary of the PEA Senate [a school government group], vice president of the Dramatic Association, and a member of the literary club and debating society.” What’s more, Briscoe was involved with “other clubs including those that focused on ham radio operation, biology, and astronomy.” Whew! For a school that can’t admit whether a student played football, they certainly are forthcoming about everything else he did. Thanks for that information, C.R. After graduating from Phillips in 1958, Briscoe then enrolled at Columbia University, where he earned a master’s in English and was active in the Drama Club. Websites devoted to Dark Shadows (and there are many) mention that he remained several years in New York City, where he landed small roles in TV commercials for Camel cigarettes and Folger’s coffee, and got bit parts in hit shows like I Dream of Jeanie and the soap operas Days of Our Lives and The Guiding Light. He appeared on Broadway, performing in The Boys in the Band, Come Back Little Sheba, Friends and Romans, and other plays. He even joined a national touring company presenting Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? In fact, the photo you see here is taken from that production, when it was staged at Ellis Auditorium on February 19-20, 1965. Briscoe is the handsome young man kneeling on the stage. This kind of life continued for years, as it did for so many other struggling actors. Then, in August 1968,

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY UNIVERSIT Y OF MEMPHIS SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

by vance lauderdale

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◗◗ What do you look for in a girl? “I like girls who are he landed the role of a lifetime — the character of aware — of themselves and the world around them.” Tom Jennings, described rather matter-of-factly as “a handyman who becomes a vampire.” As I mentioned Briscoe starred in 95 episodes of Dark Shadows, but earlier, for reasons too complicated to go into here, despite all the publicity stunts like those I mentioned here, he never quite attained the same level of stardom “Tom Jennings” was killed off. Well, due to popular as colleagues like Lara Parker or Jonathan Frid (who demand, as they say, Briscoe returned to the show — played the patriarch of the Collins clan). By 1970, after are you ready for this? — as Tom’s twin brother, Chris only two years on the show, he was clearly in ill health, Jennings, described as “a werewolf.” In other words, he looked exactly the same, except for the fangs, I guess. though the exact nature of his ailment was unknown at Now, when that character was also killed off (I get the time. He was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder. the impression job security was not assured if you apThe last episode featuring Don Briscoe aired April 27, peared on Dark Shadows), Briscoe was brought back a 1970. He left the show and traveled around the country, third time to please fans, this time playing the role of living for several months on the West Coast, where Chris Collins, who was apparently related to those one website hinted that “he got into the drug culture twin Jennings brothers, very heavily in Califorbut had been transportnia, which was unfortued to present-day Collingnate.” Sometime in the swood from the past, or early 1970s, he returned maybe it was the future, to Memphis and moved and — look, it’s just too in with his parents, who crazy to explain here. by this time had moved And from what I underto Whitehaven. Accordstand, somehow Briscoe ing to yet another Dark managed to play a fourth Shadows website, “He recharacter named Tim mained there, shunning Shaw, but I can’t figure the spotlight, for the out if he was a vampire, rest of his life.” werewolf, handyman, or In 1990, fans tracked him down and tried to something else entirely. In August 1968, Briscoe landed the role of Briscoe was a handpersuade him to join othsome gentleman, and er former members of the a lifetime — the character of Tom Jennings, he was often featured Dark Shadows cast who described rather matter-of-factly as “a in promotions for the were taking part in movie show. According to the festivals and reunions. He handyman who becomes a vampire” on the Dark Shadows Online webdeclined, telling them, “I’m popular TV series Dark Shadows. site, “Don’s sexy, brooding not one for interviews.” good looks made him an instant favorite among fans, The deaths of his parents (his mother in 1999 and and he became the subject of countless fan photos and his father in 2004) left him alone in the house, and he articles.” For example, he took part in a photo spread for became a total recluse. His sister found him dead there, Sixteen magazine, lounging bare-chested against a stack of an apparent heart attack, on October 31, 2004. It was of books, with the caption, “Like to join me? Pull up an Halloween. He was laid to rest, beneath a simple bronze encyclopedia and sit down.” According to another webmarker, next to his parents in the Greenview section site, he was photographed for another fan magazine of Memorial Park. “Don Briscoe played tortured souls on Dark Shadows, with the tagline, “Come see how the vampires do it.” plagued by the torments of vampirism and a werewolf That same magazine also mentioned that Briscoe carried a tiny portable television set around with him in curse — situations that tragically mirrored his real life,” a paper bag, so he could watch episodes of Dark Shadows read a tribute on a website, Barnabas & Company, devoted and critique his own acting. to the cast of the show. “For decades, the handsome For other promotions and interviews, the actor had actor battled bipolar disorder, and after walking away to endure such questions as: from worldwide fame, he died a near recluse.” ◗◗ Do you have sports and hobbies? “I like to drive I certainly wish this story had a much happier sports cars, ride horses, swim, and tinker with my ending. But at least the talent of Don Briscoe lives stereo system.” on, in the many websites devoted to Dark Shadows, ◗◗ What’s your favorite color? “Light blue.” countless articles in books and magazine, and the ◗◗ Who’s your favorite singer? “Aretha Franklin.” memories of all the fans who admired him.

opposite page: The 1965 Ellis Auditorium production of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Wolff? featured (l-r) Vicki Cummings, Bryarly Lee, Kendall Clark, and a pre-vampire Don Briscoe. left: Don Briscoe’s simple grave marker at Memorial Park.

Got a question for vance?

EMAIL: askvance@memphismagazine.com MAIL: Vance Lauderdale, Memphis magazine, 65 Union Avenue, Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38103 ONLINE: memphismagazine. com/ask-vance

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DINING OUT

Food forThought in binghampton

Two community restaurants bookend a neighborhood with admirable missions and healthy and affordable food. edited by pamela denney photographs by justin fox burks

Team members at Inspire Community Café include Chef Terrance Whitley, Kristin FoxTrautman, and Tamika Whitley and, in the back row, Tevin Whitley, Charlena Branch, and Jacqueline Chandler.

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Familiar foods take a nutritious turn at Inspire Community Cafe. by pamela denney

rder a quinoa bowl with lots of veggies, I say to myself as I drive to Inspire Community Café, located next to the Save a Lot store at Sam Cooper and Tillman. I repeat the words again, like a cleansing mantra, because it’s midway through the holidays, and a carbohydrate hangover already weighs me down. Inside the café — a charming nook of a place with mantras of its own — I read the appealing menu descriptions, scrawled across a chalkboard in pastel-colored bubble letters: orange for smoothies; pink for breakfast; and green for dishes at dinner and lunch. I spot three different bowls made with quinoa or rice, and as I consider the choices, a server directs my attention to the café’s seasonal specials. Oh, happy day! Here’s a Harvest Bowl, a fall bounty of Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, cranberries, and kale. But there’s more on the menu as well, and my attention soon strays to pumpkin pancakes. They are golden and pillowy in the menu’s photo and topped with candied pecans and whipped cream. Pumpkin and pecans are healthy, I sheepishly explain to my lunch-mate Teri, as we slurp up frothy lattes from cups the size of bowls. Indeed, my pancakes are nutritious and filling like the café’s other menu items, all madeto-order with local ingredients. “Fresh, simple, delicious, and accessible are our menu’s key concepts,” explains co-founder Kristin Fox-Trautman. “Nothing on our menu is super complex.

INSPIRE COMMUNITY CAFÉ 510 Tillman St., Suite 110 901-509-8640 FOOD: Familiar foods like pancakes

and chicken salad team up with more exotic vegetarian fare like chia seed

Charlena Branch, Jacqueline Chandler, and Tevin Whitley, the cafe’s co-founders. The restaurant’s team, which also includes Trazell Coleman and other Whitley family members, Tamika and Tamarcus, opened the restaurant last January with a dual purpose. They wanted to shape a business model built on shared responsibilities, profit-sharing, and living

Every aspect of Inspire Community Café, from menu to décor, reflects the team’s intent to build relationships across ethnic, cultural, and economic divides.

Dishes like a black bean bowl with vegetables and chicken deﬁne the healthy and accessible menu at Inspire Community Café. We want everyone to be able to find something they recognize and really enjoy.” Consider the café’s quesadillas served with pineapple salsa. They come in four different ways, including four-cheese and slow-cooked chicken with barbecue sauce. The café’s chipotle chili, beef or vegetarian, is another customer favorite, thanks

breakfast pudding. “We soak chia seeds in unsweetened coconut milk, and they become a pudding,” explains co-founder Kristin Fox-Trautman. Even better: Breakfast is served all day. THREE TO TRY: Rose-colored hibiscus tea, avocado toast made with brioche bread, and Costa Rican black bean quinoa bowl with chicken and roasted

to fragrant bowls loaded with beans, vegetables, fresh cilantro, and shredded cheddar cheese. “We have customers who come in multiple times a week just to eat the chili,” Fox-Trautman says. “It’s been so popular that we sold chili all summer long.” Making people feel comfortable is important to Fox-Trautman and to Chef Terrance Whitley,

sweet potatoes. AMBIENCE: Inspire Café brims with

sunshine from the friendly staff and the café’s plate-glass windows that let in natural light on two sides. EXTRAS: Meals-to-go for a family of four include options such as fresh salad, chipotle three-bean and beef chili, and corn chips with a four-cheese blend. Call

wages and to use food to connect Binghampton with other Memphis neighborhoods. Every aspect of Inspire Community Café, from menu to décor, reflects the intent to build relationships across ethnic, cultural, and economic divides. The word “welcome” headlines the chalkboard in five different languages: English, Mandarin, Spanish, Arabic, and Swahili. Sturdy tables — built by team members out of pallet wood — move easily to accommodate gatherings of any size. There are also loveseats, framed affirmations (“Choose Joy”), and shelves filled with children’s books. “We feel honored to be part of this community, and being located on a busy corridor draws people in from all over Memphis,” Fox-Trautman says. “It’s a win-win for all of us.”

by 4:30 p.m.; pick up by 6. The café also is available for private parties, with or without catering. PRICES: Coffee and tea ($2 to $4.25); smoothies ($5.75 to $6.50); breakfast ($4 to $7.50); lunch and dinner ($5-$8). OPEN: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Closed Sunday.

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Food for Thought Caritas Café Builds Community with Fellowship and Food. by grace baker

ucked inside the Binghampton neighborhood in East Memphis, Caritas Community Center and Café is a surprise, especially to first-time customers like me. The building’s exterior is made of brick, and a sign outside with block letters announces the organization’s next event. Beneath the logo is the phrase, “Where friends and neighbors break bread together.”

“I love cooking because I love pleasing people

Chef Matthew Schweitzer (right), preparing cheeseburgers on brioche buns, describes his cooking as a mash-up of styles and ethnic inﬂuences.

and making people happy with food.” — Chef Matthew Schweitzer Walking inside, a cafeteria-like atmosphere greets me. A hodgepodge of wooden chairs and tables sprawls throughout the room, and paintings by local artists mask the room’s white walls. A customer plays the piano in the back corner, and sunlight trickles in from the wall of windows spread across the restaurant’s north side. Simply put, Caritas feels like a place where I could kick off my shoes, people watch, and read, but like most customers I’ve come here to eat. To order, I walk to the counter and receive a number, much like a deli. The staff — a friendly bunch who seem determined to please — range from retirees to college students who keep up with their schoolwork while working the register. “Half the people who work here are paid employees,” executive director Kristin McMillin

CARITAS VILLAGE 2509 Harvard Ave. 901-327-5246 FOOD: Dishes at Caritas Café are South-

ern-inspired and made with farm-fresh ingredients. Soups change daily, and blue plate specials are particularly good.

The grilled cheese sandwich moves beyond the ordinary with a three-cheese combination of Swiss, cheddar, and Boursin Gournay. says. “The other half of our group are volunteers, so we are a volunteer-run organization.” Nearby farmers who supply locally grown produce and grassfeed beef are part of the mix as well, contributing to Caritas’ over-arching mission to serve farm-to-table food prepared with a gourmet flare to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. Most of the dishes at Caritas range from $6 to $12. The menu, Try Brunswick stew, chicken with purple potato mash, pig ear gravy, and sautéed collards, or coq au vin, a French dish of chicken with red wine sauce popularized by Julia Child. THREE TO TRY: Sloppy Joe with tomato sauce, Marmilu Farms beef burger on a brioche bun, and roasted potato salad tossed with mayonnaise, olive oil, and

which changes daily, features an array of options, including sandwiches (BLT with guacamole! four-cheese grilled cheese!) and plate lunches with scrumptious sides like sorghum glazed carrots and braised collard greens. I order pasta Bolognese, which is the blue plate special most Tuesdays. Bacon, ground beef, ground pork, garlic, red wine, rosemary, and tomatoes come together for an authenCavender’s All Purpose Greek Seasoning. AMBIENCE: The name Caritas says it all.

The word is Latin for “love for all,” says executive director Kristin McMillin. “In Spanish, it means little hats, but we go by love for all.” EXTRAS: The café offers a “pay-it-forward” program, where a $10 donation covers the cost of a meal for a customer

tic Italian sauce plated with locally produced rigatoni from Tamboli Pasta. The Bolognese is a signature dish crafted by Spencer McMillin, who stepped down as head chef to take on more of a consulting role. The new chef, Matthew Schweitzer, is a former chef at a senior living facility who wants to have an impact outside the corporate world. “I love cooking because I love pleasing people and making people happy with food,” he explains. He started helping McMillin on Saturdays and found his time at Caritas to be the most relaxing part of his week. When McMillin left in November, Schweitzer jumped at the opportunity to lead the Caritas kitchen. “We, of course, want him to make his imprint too,” Kristin McMillin says about their new chef. Schweitzer describes his cooking as all-American, a cooking style that reflects the country’s different cultures and ethnicities. He explains more fully with some of the dishes he is adding to the menu: pork belly melt with locally made muscadine jam and a house salad of wild arugula, goat cheese, candied pecans, and dried cranberries all dressed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. “There’s soon to be some candied bacon on the menu in honor of one of our young customers,” Schweitzer explains. “The only thing he will eat is bacon.” (Editor’s Note: Grace Baker is a student food writer with the Department of Journalism and Strategic Media at the University of Memphis.) who cannot afford to pay. Caritas also accepts clothing donations in exchange for a 10 percent discount off a meal. PRICES: Blue plate specials ($12), soup and salads ($3-$9), sandwiches and burgers ($6 to $10), sides ($3.50), desserts ($1.50 to $3.50). OPEN: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Closed Sunday.

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MEMPHIS DINING guide

THE GRAY CANARY—The sixth restaurant from chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman, offering small plates and entrees cooked on an open flame. Oysters, octopus, and hearty steaks are among the menu options at this emphis magazine offers this curated restaurant listing as a eatery in Old Dominick Distillery. Closed Mon. 301 S. Front. 466service to its readers. Broken down alphabetically by neighborhoods, this directory 6324. D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$. does not list every restaurant in town. It does, however, include the magazine’s GRECIAN GOURMET TAVERNA—Serves traditional favorites like spanakopita, pastitso, moussaka, and hand-rolled “Top 50” choices of must-try restaurants in Memphis, a group that is updated every August. dolmathes, as well as lamb sliders and pita nachos. Closed Mon. Establishments open less than a year are not eligible for “Top 50” but are noted as “New.” 412 S. Main. 249-6626. L, D, X, $ This guide also includes a representative sampling of other Bluff City eating establishments. GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED No fast-food facilities or cafeterias are listed, nor have we included establishments that rely CHICKEN—Serves chicken with signature spicy batter, along with homemade beans, slaw, and pies. 310 S. heavily on take-out business. Restaurants are included regardless of whether they advertise Front. 527-4877; 215 S. Center St. (Collierville). 853-6005; 2965 N. in Memphis magazine; those that operate in multiple locations are listed under the neighborGermantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 373-9111; 730 S. Mendenhall. 767hood of their original location. This guide is updated regularly, but we recommend that you 2323; 505 Highway 70 W., Mason, TN. 901-294-2028. L, D, X, MRA, $ call ahead to check on hours, prices, and other details. Suggestions from readers are welcome; HAPPY MEXICAN—Serves quesadillas, burritos, chimichangas, vegetable and seafood dishes, and more. 385 S. Second. please contact us at dining@memphismagazine.com. 529-9991; 6080 Primacy Pkwy. 683-0000; 7935 Winchester. 751-5353. L, D, X, $ pasta, and several Northern Italian specialties. 149 Union, The Peabody. 529-4199. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$$ HU. DINER—An extension of Hu. Hotel, diner serves CENTER CITY such dishes as country-fried cauliflower, cornflake-fried CAROLINA WATERSHED—This indoor/outdoor eatery, 117 PRIME—Restaurateurs Craig Blondis and Roger Sapp chicken, and octopus and grits. 3 S. Main. 333set around silos, features reimagined down-home classics, teamed up with Chef Ryan Trimm to recreate the traditional 1224. L, D, X, $-$$ including fried green tomatoes with smoked catfish, a butterAmerican steakhouse. Serving oysters on the half shell and a milk fried chicken sandwich, burgers, HU. ROOF—Rooftop cocktail bar with DINING SYMBOLS variety of surf and turf options. 117 Union. 433-9851. L, D, WB, and more. Closed Mon.-Thurs. 141 E. superb city views serves toasts with a X, $-$$$ Carolina. 321-5553. L, D, WB, $-$$ variety of toppings including beef tartare B — breakfast 3RD & COURT—The latest from Ryan Trimm and with cured egg, cognac, and capers CATHERINE & L — lunch Across the Board Hospitality is a retro diner with an or riced cauliflower with yellow curry, MARY’S—A variety of upscale twist. Includes a three-meat meatloaf and D — dinner currants, and almonds. Also salads, fish pastas, grilled quail, pâté, pound cake French toast. 24 N. B.B. King. 290-8484. B, L, D, X, tacos, and boiled peanut hummus. 79 SB — Sunday brunch razor clams, and monkfish are among WB, $-$$ Madison. 333-1229. D, $ the dishes served at this Italian restauWB — weekend brunch ALDO’S PIZZA PIES—Serving gourmet pizzas rant in the Chisca. 272 S. Main. 254HUEY’S—This family-friendly X— wheelchair accessible — including Mr. T Rex — salads, and more. Also 30 8600. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ restaurant offers 13 different MRA — member, Memphis beers, bottled or on tap. 100 S. Main. 577-7743; 752 S. burgers, a variety of sandwiches, CHEZ PHILIPPE— Restaurant Association Cooper. 725-7437. L, D, X, $-$$ and delicious soups and salads. 1927 Classical/contemporary French $ — under $15 per person without THE ARCADE—Possibly Memphis’ oldest cafe. Madison. 726-4372; 1771 N. Germantown cuisine presented in a luxuridrinks or desserts Specialties include sweet potato pancakes, a fried Pkwy. (Cordova). 754-3885; 77 S. Second. ous atmosphere with a seasonal menu peanut butter and banana sandwich, and breakfast $$ — under $25 527-2700; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). focused on local/regional cuisine. The served all day. 540 S. Main. 526-5757. B, L, D (Thurs.-Sat.), X, 854-4455; 7090 Malco Blvd. (Southaven). crown jewel of The Peabody for 35 $$$ — $26-$50 MRA, $ 662-349-7097; 7825 Winchester. 624-8911; years. Afternoon tea served Wed.-Sat., $$$$ — over $50 AUTOMATIC SLIM’S—Longtime downtown favorite 4872 Poplar. 682-7729; 7677 Farmington 1-3:30 p.m. (reservations required). specializes in contemporary American cuisine emphasizing local Blvd. (Germantown). 318-3030; 8570 Highway 51 N. (Millington). Closed Sun.-Tues. The Peabody, 149 Union. 529-4188. D, X, ingredients; also extensive martini list. 83 S. Second. 525-7948. 873-5025. L, D, X, MRA, $ MRA, $$$$ L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ HUSTLE & DOUGH BAKERY & CAFE—Flaky, COZY CORNER—Serving up ribs, pork sandBARDOG TAVERN—Classic American grill with Italian baked breakfast goodness every day with fresh pastries, wiches, chicken, spaghetti, and more; also homemade influence, Bardog offers pasta specialties such as Grandma’s sandwiches, and more at Arrive Hotel. 477 S. Main St., banana pudding. Closed Mon. 745 N. Parkway and NJ Meatballs, as well as salads, sliders, sandwiches, and daily 701-7577. B, L, X, $ Manassas. 527-9158. L, D, $ specials. 73 Monroe. 275-8752. B (Mon.-Fri.), L, D, WB, X, MRA, ITTA BENA—Southern and Cajun-American cuisine served DIRTY CROW INN—Serving elevated bar food, including $-$$ here; specialties are duck and waffles and shrimp and grits, along poutine fries, fried catfish, and the Chicken Debris, a sandwich BEDROCK EATS & SWEETS—Memphis’ only Paleowith steaks, chops, seafood, and pasta. 145 Beale St. 578-3031. D, with smoked chicken, melted cheddar, and gravy. 855 centric restaurant offering such dishes as pot roast, waffles, X, MRA, $$-$$$ Kentucky. 207-5111. L, D, MRA, $ enchiladas, chicken salad, omelets, and more. Closed for dinner KOOKY CANUCK—Offers prime rib, catfish, and burgers, EVELYN & OLIVE—Jamaican/Southern fusion cuisine Sun. 327 S. Main. 409-6433. B, L, D, X, $-$$ including the 4-lb. “Kookamonga”; also late-night menu. 87 S. includes such dishes as Kingston stew fish, Rasta Pasta, and BELLE TAVERN—Serving elevated bar food, including a Second. 578-9800; 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy. 1-800-2453 L, D, jerk rib-eye. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun.-Mon. 630 butcher board with a variety of meats and cheeses, as well as X, MRA, $-$$$ Madison. 748-5422. L, D, X, $ daily specials. 117 Barboro Alley. 249-6580. L (Sun.), D, MRA, $ THE LITTLE TEA SHOP—Downtown institution FAM—Casual Asian restaurant serves sushi rice bowls, noodle BISHOP—Ticer and Hudman’s newest venture at the serves up Southern comfort cooking, including meatloaf bowls, sushi rolls, and spring rolls. Closed Sun. 149 Madison. Central Station Hotel features upscale dishes in a French and such veggies as turnip greens, yams, okra, and toma701-6666. L, D, X, $ brasserie style. 545 S. Main St., 524-5247. L, D, X, $$-$$$ toes. Closed Sat.-Sun. 69 Monroe. 525-6000, L, X, $ FELICIA SUZANNE’S—Southern cuisine with BLEU—This eclectic restaurant features American food with LOCAL—Entrees with a focus on locally sourced products include low-country, Creole, and Delta influences, using global influences and local ingredients. Among the specialties lobster mac-and-cheese and ribeye patty melt; menu differs by regional fresh seafood, local beef, and locally grown are a 14-oz. bone-in rib-eye and several seafood dishes. 221 S. location. 95 S. Main. 473-9573; 2126 Madison. 725-1845. L, D, WB, foods. Entrees include shrimp and grits. Closed Sun. and Mon. A Third, in the Westin Memphis Beale St. Hotel. 334-5950. B, L, D, X, $-$$ downtown staple at Brinkley Plaza, 80 Monroe, Suite L1. 523WB, X, MRA, $$-$$$ 0877. L (Fri. only), D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ LOFLIN YARD—Beer garden and restaurant serves vegetarian BLUEFIN RESTAURANT & SUSHI LOUNGE— fare and smoked-meat dishes, including beef brisket and pork FERRARO’S PIZZERIA & PUB—Rigatoni and Serves Japanese fusion cuisine featuring seafood and steak, tenderloin, cooked on a custom-made grill. Closed Mon.-Tues. 7 W. tortellini are among the pasta entrees here, along with pizzas with seasonally changing menu; also a sushi bar. 135 S. Main. Carolina. 249-3046. L (Sat. and Sun.), D, MRA, $-$$ (whole or by the slice) with a variety of toppings. 111 Jackson. 528-1010. L, D, X, $-$$ 522-2033. L, D, X, $ THE LOOKOUT AT THE PYRAMID—Serves seafood and BRASS DOOR IRISH PUB—Irish and New-American Southern fare, including cornmeal-fried oysters, sweet tea brined FLIGHT RESTAURANT & WINE BAR— cuisine includes such entrees as fish and chips, burgers, chicken, and elk chops. 1 Bass Pro Dr. 620-4600/291-8200. L, D, X Serves steaks and seafood, along with such specialties shepherd’s pie, all-day Irish breakfast, and more. 152 Madison. $-$$$ as bison ribeye and Muscovy duck, all matched with 572-1813. L, D, SB, $-$$ appropriate wines. 39 S. Main. 521-8005. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ LUNA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE—Serving a limited CAFE KEOUGH—European-style cafe serving quiche, menu of breakfast and lunch items. Dinner entrees include Citrus FLYING FISH—Serves up fried and grilled versions of paninis, salads, and more. 12 S. Main. 509-2469. B, L, D, X, $ Glaze Salmon and Cajun Stuffed Chicken. 179 Madison (Hotel shrimp, crab, oysters, fish tacos, and catfish; also chicken and CAPRICCIO GRILL ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE—Offers Napoleon). 526-0002. B, D (Mon.-Sat.), X, $-$$$ burgers. 105 S. Second. 522-8228. L, D, X, $-$$ prime steaks, fresh seafood (lobster tails, grouper, mahi mahi),

a cur ated guide to eating out

We celebrate our city’s community table and the people who grow, cook, and eat the best Memphis food at M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M / F O O D (This guide, compiled by our editors, includes editorial picks and advertisers.)

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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—Housed in a former silent-picture house, features aged steaks, fresh seafood, and such specialties as roasted chicken and grilled pork tenderloin; offers a pre-theatre menu and classic cocktails. Wellstocked bar. 145 S. Main. 522-8555. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ McEWEN’S—Southern/American cuisine with international flavors; specialties include steak and seafood, sweet potato-crusted catfish with macaroni and cheese, and more. Closed Sun., Monroe location. 120 Monroe. 527-7085; 1110 Van Buren (Oxford). 662-234-7003. L, D, SB (Oxford only), X, MRA, $$-$$$ MESQUITE CHOP HOUSE—The focus here is on steaks, including prime fillet, rib-eyes, and prime-aged New York strip; also, some seafood options. 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-8902467; 88 Union. 527-5337; 3165 Forest Hill-Irene (Germantown). 249-5661. D, SB (Germantown), X, $$-$$$ MOLLIE FONTAINE LOUNGE—Specializes in tapas (small plates) featuring global cuisine. Closed Sun.-Tues. 679 Adams Ave. 524-1886. D, X, MRA, $ THE NINE THAI & SUSHI—Serving authentic Thai dishes, including curries, as well as a variety of sushi rolls. Closed for lunch Sat. and Sun. 121 Union. 208-8347. L, D, X, $-$$ 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, $-$$$ PEARL’S OYSTER HOUSE—Downtown eatery serving seafood, including oysters, crawfish, and stuffed butterfly shrimp, as well as beef, chicken, and pasta dishes. 299 S. Main. 522-9070; 8106 Cordova Center Dr. (Cordova). 425-4797. L, D, SB, X, $-$$$ PONTOTOC LOUNGE—Upscale restaurant and jazz bar serves such starters as alligator filet fritters; entrees include Mississippi pot roast with jalapeño cornbread and tagliatelle with braised beef. 314 S. Main. 207-7576. D, X, $-$$ PUCK FOOD HALL—Food hall featuring a variety of vendors serving everything from bagels and beer to comfort food and healthy cuisine. 409 S. Main. 341-3838. $-$$ REGINA’S—New Orleans-inspired eatery offering po’boys, Cajun nachos topped with crawfish tails, catfish platters, oysters, and more. Closed Mon. 60 N. Main. 730-0384. B, L, D, SB, X, $-$$ RENDEZVOUS, CHARLES VERGOS’—Menu items include barbecued ribs, cheese plates, skillet shrimp, red beans and rice, and Greek salads. Closed Sun.-Mon. 52 S. Second. 523-2746. L (Fri.-Sat.), D, X, $-$$ RIZZO’S DINER—Chorizo meatloaf, lobster pronto puff, and lamb belly tacos are menu items at this upscale diner. Michael Patrick is among the city’s best chefs. 492 S. Main. 304-6985. L (Fri.-Sat.), D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ SABOR CARIBE—Serving up “Caribbean flavors” with dishes from Colombia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Closed Sunday. 662 Madison. 949-8100. L, D, X, $ SAGE—Restaurant and lounge features daily lunch specials and tapas with such dishes as braised short ribs, teriyaki pulled pork, and the Sage burger made with Angus beef, avocado mash, fried egg, and flash-fried sage. 94 S. Main. 672-7902. L, D, WB, X, $-$$ SLEEP OUT LOUIE’S—Oyster bar with such specialties as char-grilled Roquefort oysters and gulf oysters on the half shell with Prosecco mignonette; also serves flatbread pizzas and a variety of sandwiches. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111. 707-7180. L, D, X, $ SOUTH MAIN SUSHI & GRILL—Serving sushi, nigiri, and more. 520 S. Main. 249-2194. L, D, X, $ SPINDINI—Italian fusion cuisine with such entrees as woodfired pizzas, Gorgonzola-stuffed filet, and fresh seafood; large domestic whiskey selection. 383 S. Main. 578-2767. D, X, $$-$$$ SUNRISE MEMPHIS—From owners of Sweet Grass and Central BBQ. Serves breakfast all day, including house-made biscuits, frittatas, kielbasa or boudin plates, and breakfast platters. 670 Jefferson. 552-3144. B, L, X, MRA, $ 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, $$

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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, SB, X, $$-$$$ UNCLE BUCK’S FISHBOWL & GRILL—Burgers, pizza, fish dishes, sandwiches, and more served in a unique “underwater” setting. Bass Pro, Bass Pro Drive, 291-8200. B, L, D, X, $-$$ THE VAULT—Oysters, shrimp beignets, flatbreads, stuffed cornish hen, and Smash Burger featured on “Late Nite Eats” are among the dishes offered at this Creole/Italian fusion eatery. 124 G.E. Patterson. 591-8000. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ 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, $

COLLIERVILLE CAFE EUROPE—From Italian chef Michele D’oto, the French, Spanish, and Italian fusion cuisine includes a variety of dishes like Rosette al Forno, fish ceviche, and sole meuniere. Closed Sun. 4610 Merchants Park Circle, Suite 571. 286-4199. L, D, X, $$-$$$$ CAFE PIAZZA BY PAT LUCCHESI—Specializes in gourmet pizzas (including create-your-own), panini sandwiches, and pasta. Closed Sun. 139 S. Rowlett St. 861-1999. L, D, X, $-$$ 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, $-$$ DAVID GRISANTI’S—Serving Northern Italian cuisine and traditional family recipes, like the Elfo Special, shrimp sauteed in garlic and butter, tossed with white button mushrooms and white pepper, and served over vermicelli with Parmigiano-Reggiano. Closed Sun. 684 W. Poplar (Sheffield Antiques Mall). 861-1777. L, D (Thurs.-Sat.), X, $-$$$ 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). 755-1447; 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, $-$$ FIREBIRDS—Specialties are hand-cut steaks, slow-roasted prime rib, and wood-grilled salmon and other seafood, as well as seasonal entrees. 4600 Merchants Circle, Carriage Crossing. 8501637; 8470 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 379-1300. L, D, X, $-$$$ JIM’S PLACE GRILLE—Features American, Greek, and Continental cuisine with such entrees as pork tenderloin, several seafood specialties, and hand-cut charcoal-grilled steaks. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 3660 Houston Levee. 861-5000. 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, $-$$$ P.O. PRESS PUBLIC HOUSE AND PROVISIONS—Featuring house-aged meats and locally sourced produce, the menu changes with availability, with such items as seasonal fish, local beef, and fresh vegetable dishes. Call for location: 457-7655. D (except Sunday), SB, X, $-$$ RAVEN & LILY—Eatery offers innovative Southerninspired cuisine with such dishes as crispy shrimp and cauliflower salad, spiced lamb sausage and parmesan risotto, and bananas foster pain perdu. Closed Monday. 120 E. Mulberry. 286-4575. L, D, SB, X, $-$$

SEAR SHACK BURGERS & FRIES—Serving Angus burgers, fries, and hand-spun milkshakes. Closed Mon. 875 W. Poplar, Suite 6. 861-4100; 5101 Sanderlin, Suite 103. 567-4909 ; 7424 Stage Road, Suite 121 (Bartlett). 382-3083; 6518 Goodman (Olive Branch). 662-408-4932; 427 E. Commerce (Hernando). 662-469-4114. L, D, 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. 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, $

CORDOVA BOMBAY HOUSE—Indian fare includes lamb korma and chicken tikka; also, a daily luncheon buffet. 1727 N. Germantown Pkwy. 755-4114. L, D, X, $-$$ THE BUTCHER SHOP—Serves steaks ranging from 8-oz. filets to a 20-oz. porterhouse; also chicken, pork chops, fresh seafood. 107 S. Germantown Rd. 757-4244. L (Fri. and Sun.), D, X, $$-$$$ COASTAL FISH COMPANY—Upscale offerings of international fish varieties utilizing styles ranging from Carribbean, East Coast, West Coast, Chinese, to Filipino, and more. 415 Great View Dr. E., Suite 101. 266-9000. D, X, $$-$$$ GREEN BAMBOO—Pineapple tilapia, pork vermicelli, and the soft egg noodle combo are Vietnamese specialties here. 990 N. Germantown Parkway #104. 753-5488. L, D, $-$$ KING JERRY LAWLER’S MEMPHIS BBQ COMPANY—Offers a variety of barbecue dishes, including brisket, ribs, nachos topped with smoked pork, and a selection of barbecue “Slamwiches.” 465 N. Germantown Pkwy. #116. 509-2360. L, D, X, $ 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, $-$$ EL MERO TACO—This food truck turned restaurant serves up Mexican and Southern-style fusion dishes, including fried chicken tacos, chorizo con papas tacos, and brisket quesadillas. 8100 Macon Station, Suite 102. 308-1661. Closed Sun.-Mon. L, D, WB, X, $ MISTER B’S—Features New Orleans-style seafood and steaks. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. and Mon. 6655 Poplar #107. 751-5262. L, D, X, $-$$$ PEI WEI ASIAN DINER—Serves a variety of Pan-Asian cuisine, including Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Thai. Noodle and rice bowls are specialties; a small plates menu also offered. 2257 N. Germantown Pkwy. 382-1822. L, D, X, $-$$ SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT—Entrees include tempura, teriyaki, and sushi, as well as grilled fish and chicken entrees. 2324 N. Germantown Pkwy. 384-4122. L, D, X, $-$$ 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, $-$$$

EAST MEMPHIS

(INCLUDES POPLAR/ I-240) ACRE—Features seasonal modern American cuisine in an avante-garde 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, $-$$ AMERIGO—Traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine includes pasta, wood-fired pizza, steaks, and cedarwood-roasted fish. 1239 Ridgeway, Park Place Mall. 761-4000. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ 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 Cl. 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, $ 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 Cl. 590-2585; 2150 W. Poplar at Houston Levee (Collierville). 854-8748. L, D, X, $-$$ BENIHANA—This Japanese steakhouse serves beef, chicken, and seafood grilled at the table; some menu items change monthly; sushi bar also featured. 912 Ridge Lake Blvd. 767-8980. L, D, X, $$-$$$ BLUE PLATE CAFÉ—For breakfast, the café’s serves old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes (it’s a secret recipe!), country ham and eggs, and waffles with fresh strawberries and cream. For lunch, the café specializes in country cooking. 5469 Poplar. 761-9696; 113 S. Court. 523-2050. B, L, X, $ BROOKLYN BRIDGE ITALIAN RESTAURANT— Specializing in such homemade entrees as spinach lasagna and lobster ravioli; a seafood specialty is horseradish-crusted salmon. Closed Sun. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 755-7413. D, X, $-$$$ 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, $-$$ CAPITAL GRILLE—Known for its dry-aged, hand-carved steaks; among the specialties are bone-in sirloin, and porcini-rubbed Delmonico; also seafood entrees and seasonal lunch plates. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. Crescent Center, 6065 Poplar. 683-9291. L, D, X, $$$-$$$$ CASABLANCA—Lamb shawarma is one of the fresh, homemade specialties served at this Mediterranean/Moroccan restaurant; fish entrees and vegetarian options also available. 5030 Poplar. 725-8557 ; 7609 Poplar Pike (Germantown). 4255908; 1707 Madison. 421-6949. L, D, X, $-$$ CIAO BELLA—Among the Italian and Greek specialties are lasagna, seafood pasta, gourmet pizzas, and vegetarian options. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 565 Erin Dr., Erin Way Shopping Center. 205-2500. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$ CITY SILO TABLE + PANTRY—With a focus on clean eating, this establishment offers fresh juices, as well as comfort foods re-imagined with wholesome ingredients. 5101 Sanderlin. 729-7687. B, L, D, X, $ CORKY’S—Popular barbecue emporium offers both wet and dry ribs, plus a full menu of other barbecue entrees. Wed. lunch buffets, Cordova and Collierville. 5259 Poplar. 685-9744; 1740 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 737-1911; 743 W. Poplar (Collierville). 405-4999; 6434 Goodman Rd., Olive Branch. 662893-3663. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ ERLING JENSEN—For over 20 years, 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, $$-$$$ FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE—Serves wetaged 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, $$$-$$$$ FOLK’S FOLLY ORIGINAL PRIME STEAK HOUSE—Specializes in prime steaks, as well as lobster, grilled Scottish salmon, Alaskan king crab legs, rack of lamb, and weekly specials. 551 S. Mendenhall. 762-8200. D, X, MRA, $$$-$$$$ FORMOSA—Offers Mandarin cuisine, including broccoli beef, hot-and-sour soup, and spring rolls. Closed Monday. 6685 Quince. 753-9898. L, D, X, $-$$ 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. 1769 N. Germantown Pkwy. 7586500. L, D, X, $ FRATELLI’S—Serves hot and cold sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts, all with an Italian/Mediterranean flair. Closed Sunday. 750 Cherry Rd., Memphis Botanic Garden. 766-9900. L, X, $ J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 73

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12/16/19 9:15 AM

Live from Hollywood Violinist Roberto Cani and pianist Inna Faliks celebrate Beethoven’s 250th Birthday performing two of his greatest works — the Appassionata and Kreutzer sonatas. Come to the party! JOIN US

SUNDAY

JANUARY 12, 2020 3:00

PM at 1560 Central Avenue Memphis, TN 38104

FOR TICKET INFORMATION AND DIRECTIONS CALL 901.758.0150 MEMPHISCHAMBERMUSIC.ORG

us at } Visit

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FRANK GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT— Northern Italian favorites include pasta with jumbo shrimp and mushrooms; also seafood, filet mignon, and daily lunch specials. Closed for lunch Sunday. Embassy Suites Hotel, 1022 S. Shady Grove. 761-9462. L, D, X, $-$$$ THE GROVE GRILL—Offers steaks, chops, seafood, and other American cuisine with Southern and global influences; entrees include crab cakes, and shrimp and grits, also dinner specials. Founder Jeff Dunham’s son Chip is now chef de cuisine. 4550 Poplar. 818-9951. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $$-$$$ HALF SHELL—Specializes in seafood, such as king crab legs; also serves steaks, chicken, pastas, salads, sandwiches, a ”voodoo menu”; oyster bar at Winchester location. 688 S. Mendenhall. 682-3966; 7825 Winchester. 737-6755. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ HIGH POINT PIZZA—Serves a variety of pizzas, subs, salads, and sides. Closed Monday. A neighborhood fixture. 477 High Point Terrace. 452-3339. L, D, X, $-$$ HOG & HOMINY—The casual sister to Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen serves brick-oven-baked pizzas, including the Red-Eye with pork belly, and small plates with everything from meatballs to beef and cheddar hot dogs; and local veggies. Closed for lunch Mon. 707 W. Brookhaven Cl. 207-7396. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ HOUSTON’S—Serves steaks, seafood, pork chops, chicken dishes, sandwiches, salads, and Chicago-style spinach dip. Farmous for first-class service. 5000 Poplar. 683-0915. L, D, X $-$$$ INTERIM—Offers American-seasonal cuisine with emphasis on local foods and fresh fish; daily chef specials. Closed for lunch Sat. 5040 Sanderlin, Suite 105. 818-0821. L, D, SB, X, $-$$$ 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 Sunday. 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). 8002656. B, L, D, SB, X, $-$$ LISA’S LUNCHBOX—Serving bagels, sandwiches, salads, and wraps. 5885 Ridgeway Center Pkwy. 767-6465; 2650 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Suite 1200; 730-0064; 6070 Poplar. 2335875; 50 N. Front. 574-0468. B, L, $ LOST PIZZA—Offering pizzas (with dough made from scratch), pasta, salads, sandwiches, tamales, and more. 2855 Poplar. 572-1803; 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-892-8684. L, D, X, $-$$ LYNCHBURG LEGENDS—This restaurant with a Jack Daniels’ theme and Southern cuisine serves such entrees as Bourbon Street salmon, buttermilk-fried chicken, and grilled steak and wild mushroom salad. DoubleTree Hotel, 5069 Sanderlin. 969-7777. B, L, D, X, $- $$$ MAHOGANY MEMPHIS—Upscale Southern restaurant offers such dishes as coffee-rubbed lamb chops and baked Cajun Cornish hen. Closed for dinner Sun. and all day Mon.-Tues. 3092 Poplar, Suite 11. 623-7977. L, D, SB, X, $-$$$ 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 Brookhaven Cl. 682-1660. D, X, $-$$  DAN MCGUINNESS PUB—Serves fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, burgers, and other Irish and American fare; also lunch and dinner specials. 4694 Spottswood. 761-3711; 3964 Goodman Rd. 662-890-7611. L, D, X, $ MAYURI INDIAN CUISINE—Serves tandoori chicken, masala dosa, tikka masala, as well as lamb and shrimp entrees; also a daily lunch buffet, and dinner buffet on Fri.-Sat. 6524 Quince Rd. 753-8755. L, D, X, $-$$ 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 Sunday. The Regalia, 6150 Poplar. 761-0990. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ PARK + CHERRY—The Dixon offers casual dining within the museum. Seasonal menu features sandwiches, like rustic chicken salad on croissant, as well as salads, snacks, and sweets. Closed for breakfast Sun. and all day Mon. 4339 Park (Dixon Gallery). 761-5250. L, X, $ PATRICK’S—Serves barbecue nachos, burgers, and entrees such as fish and chips; also plate lunches and daily specials. 4972 Park. 682-2852. L, D, X, MRA, $ PETE & SAM’S—Serving Memphis for 60-plus years; offers steaks, seafood, and traditional Italian dishes, including homemade ravioli, lasagna, and chicken marsala. 3886 Park. 458-0694. D, X, $-$$$ 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, $-$$ PHO SAIGON—Vietnamese fare includes beef teriyaki, roasted quail, curry ginger chicken, vegetarian options, and a variety of soups. 2946 Poplar. 458-1644. L, D, $ PYRO’S FIRE-FRESH PIZZA—Serving gourmet pizzas cooked in an open-fire oven; wide choice of toppings; large local and craft beer selection. 1199 Ridgeway. 379-8294; 2035 Union Ave. 208-8857; 2286 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 207-1198; 3592 S. Houston Levee (Collierville). 221-8109. L, D, X, MRA, $ RED HOOK CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Cajunstyle array of seafood including shrimp, mussels, clams, crawfish, and oysters. 3295 Poplar. 207-1960. L, D, X, $-$$ 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, $$$ RONNIE GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT— This Memphis institution serves some family classics such as Elfo’s Special and handmade ravioli, along with house-made pizza and fresh oysters. Closed Sun. 6150 Poplar #122. 850-0191. D, X, $-$$$ 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, $$$-$$$$ SALSA—Mexican-Southern California specialties include carnitas, enchiladas verde, and fajitas; also Southwestern seafood dishes such as snapper verde. Closed Sun. Regalia Shopping Center, 6150 Poplar, Suite 129. 683-6325. L, D, X, $-$$ 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; 7704 Poplar (Germantown). 800-1951. B, L, WB, X, $

74 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0

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12/18/19 1:31 PM

Excellence in

BUSINESS

AWARDS 2019

Thursday, January 23, 2020

Reception 6:00 p.m. | Dinner 7:15 p.m. | Hilton Memphis 939 Ridge Lake Blvd, Memphis, TN 38120

The Collierville Chamber of Commerce and Boyle Insurance Agency are proud to announce the Excellence in Business Awards 2019 Nominees Person of the Year Maureen Fraser Fran Persechini Allen Green

Spirit of Collierville Cotton Law Firm Brooks Collection Art & Speed Classic Car Gallery Cartridge World of Collierville

Non-Profit of the Year Collierville Literacy Council Southern Reins Center for Equine Therapy Main Street Collierville Collierville Arts Council

Entrepreneur of the Year Dogtopia Rehab, Etc. Firehouse Subs

Health Care Provider of the Year Dr. Jay Ragain, Dean, College of Dentistry, University of Tennessee Health Science Center YMCA LIVEStrong Program Baptist Center for Good Grief

Special Guests

Emcee

Andrew Douglas, Award-winning Anchor for WMCTV

Presented by:

Boyle Insurance Agency, Inc. Ron Gant, Agent

MM_FullPage_TrimSize_9x25_11x125.indd 1

Guest Speaker

Matt Largen, President and CEO of Williamson, Inc. Gold Sponsor

Reception Sponsor:

12/17/19 10:53 AM

STRANO BY CHEF JOSH—Presenting a Sicilian/ Mediterranean mix of Arab, Spanish, Greek, and North African fare, Strano serves hand-tossed pizzas, wood-grilled fish, and such entrees as Chicken Under the Earth, cooked under a Himalayan salt block over a seasoned white oak wood-fired grill. 518 Perkins Extd. 275-8986. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ SUSHI JIMMI—This food truck turned restaurant serves a variety of sushi rolls, fusion dishes — such as kimchi fries — and sushi burritos. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Mon. 2895 Poplar. 729-6985. L, D, X, $ SWANKY’S TACO SHOP—Taco-centric eatery offers tortas, flatbreads, quesadillas, chimichangas, burgers, and more. 4770 Poplar. 730-0763; 6641 Poplar (Germantown). 7372088; 272 S. Main. 779-3499. L, D, X, $ THREE LITTLE PIGS—Pork-shoulder-style barbecue with tangy mild or hot sauce, freshly made coleslaw, and baked beans. 5145 Quince Rd. 685-7094. B, L, D, X, $ TOPS BAR-B-Q—Specializes in pork barbecue sandwiches and sandwich plates with beans and slaw; also serves ribs, beef brisket, and burgers. 1286 Union. 725-7527; 4183 Summer. 3244325; 5391 Winchester. 794-7936; 3970 Rhodes. 323-9865; 6130 Macon. 371-0580. For more locations, go online. L, D, X, $ VENICE KITCHEN—Specializes in “eclectic Italian” and Southern Creole, from pastas, including the “Godfather,” to hand-tossed pizzas, including the “John Wayne”; choose from 50 toppings. 368 Perkins Ext. 767-6872. L, D, SB, X, $-$$ 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, $-$$ WASABI—Serving traditional Japanese offerings, hibachi, sashimi, and sushi. The Sweet Heart roll, wrapped — in the shape of a heart — with tuna and filled with spicy salmon, yellowtail, and avocado, is a specialty. 5101 Sanderlin Rd., Suite 105. 421-6399. L, D, X, $-$$ WOMAN’S EXCHANGE TEA ROOM—Chicken-salad plate, beef tenderloin, soups-and-sandwiches, and vegetable plates are specialties; meal includes drink and dessert. Closed Sat.-Sun. 88 Racine. 327-5681. L, X, $ ZAKA BOWL—This vegan-friendly restaurant serves buildyour-own vegetable bowls featuring ingredients such as agave Brussels sprouts and roasted beets. Also serves tuna poke and herbed chicken bowls. 575 Erin. 509-3105. L, D, $

GERMANTOWN BLUE HONEY BISTRO—Entrees at this upscale eatery include brown butter scallops served with Mississippi blue rice and herb-crusted beef tenderloin with vegetables and truffle butter. Closed Sun. 9155 Poplar, Suite 17. 552-3041. D, X, $-$$$ FARM & FRIES—A burger-centric menu features 100 percent grass-fed and finished beef served in creative combinations like roasted portobellos and Swiss cheese. Try the Brussels with cheddar, bacon, and quick-fried sprout leaves on fries, house-cut with dipping sauces. Closed Sun. 7724 Poplar Pike. 791-2328. L, D, X, $ FOREST HILL GRILL—A variety of standard pub fare and a selection of mac-and-cheese dishes are featured on the menu. Specialties include Chicken Newport and a barbecue salmon BLT. 9102 Poplar Pike. 624-6001. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ 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, $-$$ LAS TORTUGAS DELI MEXICANA— Authentic Mexican food prepared from local food sources; specializes in tortugas — grilled bread scooped out to hold such powerfully popular fillings as brisket, pork, and shrimp; also tingas, tostados. Closed Sunday. 1215 S. Germantown Rd. 751-1200; 6300 Poplar. 623-3882. L, D, X, $-$$ MISTER B’S—Features New Orleans-style seafood and steaks. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. and Mon. 6655 Poplar #107. 751-5262. 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 #12. 755-1117. 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, $-$$ RAW GIRLS / CITY & STATE POP-UP— Hannah and Amy Pickle offer plant-based dishes and cold-pressed juices alongside Lisa and Luis Toro’s coffee bar. Hours vary. 2055 W. Germantown. L, X, $ RED KOI—Classic Japanese cuisine offered at this family-run restaurant; hibachi steaks, sushi, seafood, chicken, and vegetables. 5847 Poplar. 767-3456. L, D, X $-$$ ROCK’N DOUGH PIZZA CO.—Specialty and custom pizzas made from fresh ingredients; wide variety of toppings. 7850 Poplar #6. 779-2008. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $$ ROYAL PANDA—Hunan fish, Peking duck, Royal Panda chicken and shrimp, and a seafood combo are among the specialties. 3120 Village Shops Dr. 756-9697. L, D, X, $-$$ RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA AND WINE BAR—Serves gourmet pizzas, calzones, and pasta, including lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo, scampi, and more. 9087 Poplar, Suite 111. 755-0092. L, D, WB, X, $-$$ SAKURA—Sushi, tempura, and teriyaki are Japanese specialties here. 2060 West St. 758-8181; 4840 Poplar. 572-1002. L, D, X, $-$$ 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, $-$$$ 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, $ 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. L, D, X, $-$

MIDTOWN (INCLUDES THE MEDICAL CENTER) 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, $-$$ ALCHEMY—Southern fusion, locally grown cuisine features small and large plates; among the offerings are pan-seared hanger steak, quail, and lamb chops; also handcrafted cocktails and local craft beers. 940 S. Cooper. 726-4444. D, SB, X, $-$$ 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, $ 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, $-$$ BACK DO / MI YARD—A revamped patio space behind The Beauty Shop features rotisserie meats and fishes via Brazilian-style outdoor grill. Dinner Wednesday-Saturday, weather permitting. 966 S. Cooper, 2727111. D, X, $$ 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 Cooper-Young neighborhood corner bar by Kevin Keough. 247 Cooper St. D, X, $ BAR-B-Q SHOP—Dishes up barbecued ribs, spaghetti, bologna; also pulled pork shoulder, Texas toast barbecue sandwich, chicken sandwich, and salads. Closed Sun. 1782 Madison. 272-1277. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ BARI RISTORANTE ENOTECA—Authentic Southeastern Italian cuisine (Puglia) emphasizes lighter entrees. Serves fresh fish and beef dishes and a homemade soup of the day. 22 S. Cooper. 722-2244. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

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, $-$$ BEAUTY SHOP—Modern American cuisine with international flair served in a former beauty shop. Serves steaks, salads, pasta, and seafood, including pecancrusted golden sea bass. Perennial “Best Brunch” winner. Closed for dinner Sunday. 966 S. Cooper. 272-7111. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ BELLY ACRES—At this festive Overton Square eatery, milkshakes, floats, and burgers rule. Burgers are updated with contemporary toppings like grilled leeks, braised tomatoes, and sourdough or brioche buns. 2102 Trimble Pl. 529-7017. L, D, X, $ BHAN THAI—Authentic Thai cuisine includes curries, pad Thai noodles, and vegetarian dishes, as well as seafood, pork, and duck entrees. Closed for lunch Sat.Sun. and all day Mon. 1324 Peabody. 272-1538. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ BLUE NILE ETHIOPIAN—Kabobs, flavorful chicken and lamb stew, and injera (flatbread) are traditional items on the menu, along with vegetarian options. 1788 Madison. 474-7214. L, D, X, $-$$ 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 BROOKS BY CITY & STATE—Serving grab-and-go pastries, as well as lunch items. Menu includes soups, salads, and sandwiches, such as the Modern Reuben and Grown-Up Grilled Cheese. 1934 Poplar (Memphis Brooks Museum of Art). 544-6200. B, L, X, $ 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, $-$$ CAFE PALLADIO—Serves gourmet salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts in a tea room inside the antiques shop. Closed Sun. 2169 Central. 278-0129. L, X, $ CAFE SOCIETY—With Belgian and classic French influences, serves Wagyu beef, chicken, and seafood dishes, including bacon-wrapped shrimp, along with daily specials and vegetarian entrees. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 212 N. Evergreen. 722-2177. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ 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, $-$$ CENTRAL BBQ—Serves ribs, smoked hot wings, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken, turkey, nachos, and portobello sandwiches. Offers both pork and beef barbecue. 2249 Central Ave. 272-9377; 4375 Summer Ave. 767-4672; 147 E. Butler. 672-7760 ; 6201 Poplar. 417-7962. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ CHEF TAM’S UNDERGROUND CAFE—Serves Southern staples with a Cajun twist. Menu items include totchos, jerk wings, fried chicken, and “muddy” mac-and-cheese. Closed Sun. and Mon. 2299 Young. 207-6182. 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

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cakes served in a flavorful sauce. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 2015 Madison. 272-0928. L, D, X, $ THE DOGHOUZZ—It’s both bark and bite at the Doghouzz, which pairs a variety of gourmet hot dogs alongside local craft beer and one of the city’s most extensive whiskey selections. Open for lunch, dinner, and late-night. Closed Sunday. 1349 Autumn Ave. 207-7770. 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. L, D, X, $-$$ ELEMENTO NEAPOLITAN PIZZA—Crosstown pizzeria specializes in Neapolitan-style, wood-fired pizza with from-scratch dough. 1350 Concourse Avenue. 672-7527. L, D, X, $ FARM BURGER—Serves grass-fed, freshly ground, locally sourced burgers; also available with chicken, pork, or veggie quinoa patties, with such toppings as aged white cheddar, kale coleslaw, and roasted beets. 1350 Concourse Avenue #175. 8001851. L, D, X, $ FINO’S ITALIAN DELI & CATERING—The newly revived Fino’s offers the old favorites such as the Acquisto as well as a new breakfast menu. 1853 Madison. 272-FINO. B, L, D, X, $ FRIDA’S—Mexican cuisine and Tex-Mex standards, including chimichangas, enchiladas, and fajitas; seafood includes shrimp and tilapia. 1718 Madison. 244-6196. L, D, X, $-$$ GLOBAL CAFE—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 #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, $-$$ GROWLERS—Sports bar and eatery serves standard bar fare in addition to a pasta, tacos, chicken and waffles, and light options. 1911 Poplar. 244-7904. L, D, X, $-$$ 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, $ HM DESSERT LOUNGE—Serving cake, pie, and other desserts, as well as a selection of savory dishes, including meatloaf and mashed potato “cupcakes.” Closed Monday. 1586 Madison. 290-2099. L, D, X, $ HOPDODDY BURGER BAR—Focus is on locally sourced ingredients, with freshly baked buns and meat butchered and ground in-house. Patty options include Angus or Kobe beef, bison, chicken, and more; also vegetarian/vegan. 6 S. Cooper. 654-5100; 4585 Poplar. 683-0700. L, D, X, $ 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, $-$$ INSPIRE COMMUNITY CAFE—Serving breakfast all day, in addition to quesadillas, rice bowls, and more for lunch and dinner. 510 Tillman, Suite 110. 509-8640. B, L, D, X, $ LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM—Serves such Southern cuisine as po’boys, shrimp and grits, and wood-fired pizzas. 2119 Madison. 207-5097. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$ LBOE—Gourmet burger joint serves locally sourced ground beef burgers, with options like the Mac-N-Cheese Burger and Caprese. Black bean and turkey patties available. 2021 Madison. 725-0770. 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. Closed for dinner Sun.-Mon. 2655 Broad. 405-5477. B, L, D, X, $-$$ LITTLE ITALY—Serving New York-style pizza as well as subs and pasta dishes. 1495 Union. 725-0280; L, D, X, $-$$ LUCKY CAT RAMEN—Specializes in gourmet ramen bowls, with such ingredients as braised pork belly and housemade blackened garlic, made with rich broth. Bao, steamed buns filled with various meats and veggies, also grace the menu. Closed Sun. 2583 Broad. 208-8145. L, D, X, $-$$

What is the only event in Memphis that

HEATS YOU UP and COOLS YOU DOWN?

Saturday, Feb. 1, 2020 NEW LOCATION

TIGER LANE!

Benefitting Special Olympics Greater Memphis

For more information visit specialolympicsmem.org Sponsored by

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MARDI GRAS MEMPHIS—Fast-casual establishment serving Cajun fare, including an etouffee-stuffed po’boy. Closed Mon.-Tues. 496 N. Watkins. 530-6767. 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. 7265343; 5061 Park Ave. 684-1306; 7604 W. Farmington (Germantown). 753-2218; 797 W. Poplar (Collierville). 861-7800; 5627 Getwell (Southaven). 662-536-1364. L, D, X, $-$$ MOLLY’S LA CASITA—Homemade tamales, fish tacos, a vegetarian combo, and bacon-wrapped shrimp are a few of the specialties. 2006 Madison. 726-1873. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ NEXT DOOR AMERICAN EATERY—Serves dishes sourced from American farms. Menu features chorizo bacon dates, spicy gulf shrimp, and dry-aged beef burgers. 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 165. 779-1512. L, D, X, $ ONIX RESTAURANT—Serves seafood dishes, including barbecued shrimp and pecan-crusted trout, and a variety of salads and sandwiches. Closed Sun. 1680 Madison. 552-4609. L, D, X, $-$$ PAYNE’S BAR-B-QUE—Opened in 1972, this family-owned barbecue joint serves ribs, smoked sausage, and chopped pork sandwiches with a standout mustard slaw and homemade sauce. About as down-to-earth as it gets. 1762 Lamar. 272-1523. L, D, $-$$ PHO BINH—Vietnamese, vegetarian, and Cantonese specialties include lemon tofu and spring rolls. Closed Sunday. 1615 Madison. 276-0006. L, D, $ RAILGARTEN—Located in a former rail station space, this eatery offers breakfast items, a variety of salads and sandwiches, and such entrees as short rib mac-and-cheese and fish tacos. Also serves shakes, malts, floats, and cream sodas. 2166 Central. 231-5043. B, L, D, $-$$ RED FISH ASIAN BISTRO—In the former Nineteenth Century Club building, serves sushi, teriyaki, and hibachi. Specialties include yuzu filet mignon and Chilean sea bass. 1433 Union. 454-3926; 9915 Highway 64 (Lakeland). 729-7581; 6518 Goodman (Olive Branch). 662-874-5254. L, D, X, $-$$$ 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.” 2146 Monroe. 590-2828. D, X, $$-$$$ 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, $-$$ SALTWATER CRAB—Offers an array of seafood dishes including boils with blue crab, crab legs, lobster tails, and more, and specialty sushi like the Dynamite or Royal King rolls, in addition to signature sangrias and cocktails. 2059 Madison Ave. 922-5202. L, D, X, $$. 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. 1350 Concourse, Suite 137. 203-3838. L, D (Mon.-Fri.), $ 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, $-$$ SEKISUI—Japanese fusion cuisine, fresh sushi bar, grilled meats and seafood, California rolls, and vegetarian entrees. Poplar/Perkins location’s emphasis is on Pacific Rim cuisine. Menu and hours vary at each location. 25 Belvedere. 725-0005; 1884 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 309-8800; 4724 Poplar. 767-7770; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-0622; 2990 KirbyWhitten (Bartlett). 377-2727; 6696 Poplar. 747-0001. L, D, X, $-$$$ STONE SOUP CAFE—Cooper-Young eatery serving soups, salads, quiche, meat-and-two specials; and daily specials such as Italian roast beef. Closed Monday. 993 S. Cooper. 922-5314. B, L, SB, 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, $-$$ SWEET GRASS—Chef Ryan Trimm takes Southern cuisine to a new level. Low-country coastal cuisine includes such specialties as shrimp and grits. Closed Mon. Restaurant’s “sister,” Sweet Grass Next Door, open nightly, serves lunch Sat.-Sun. 937 S. Cooper. 278-0278. D, SB, X, $-$$$ TAMBOLI’S PASTA & PIZZA—Pasta Maker Josh Tamboli whips up Italian soul food with seasonal menus featuring dishes like crispy fried chicken or creamy bucatini with pecorino cheese. Serves dinner TuesdaySaturday. Pizza only menu after 9pm. 1761 Madison. 410-8866. D, X, $-$$ TROLLEY STOP MARKET—Serves plate lunches/dinners as well as pizzas, salads, and vegan/vegetarian entrees; a specialty is the locally raised beef burger. Also sells fresh produce and goods from local farmers; delivery available. Saturday brunch; closed Sunday. 704 Madison. 526-1361. L, D, X, $ TSUNAMI—Features Pacific Rim cuisine (Asia, Australia, South Pacific, etc.); also a changing “small plate” menu. Chef Ben Smith is a Cooper-Young pioneer. Specialties include Asian nachos and roasted sea bass. Closed Sunday. 928 S. Cooper. 274-2556. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ 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)

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, $-$$ THE FOUR WAY—Legendary soul-food establishment dishing up such entrees as fried and baked catfish, chicken, and turkey and dressing, along with a host of vegetables and desserts. Around the corner from the legendary Stax Studio. Closed Monday. 998 Mississippi Blvd. 507-1519. L, D, $ INTERSTATE BAR-B-Q—Specialties include chopped pork-shoulder sandwiches, ribs, hot wings, spaghetti, chicken, and turkey. 2265 S. Third. 775-2304; 150 W. Stateline Rd. (Southaven). 662-393-5699. L, D, X, $-$$ 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, $-$$ MARLOWE’S—In addition to its signature barbecue and ribs, Marlowe’s serves Southern-style steaks, chops, lasagne, and more. 4381 Elvis Presley Blvd. 332-4159. D, X, MRA, $-$$ 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 ASIAN PALACE—Chinese eatery serves seafood, vegetarian items, dim sum, and more. 5266 Summer Ave. 766-0831. L, D, X, $-$$ ELWOOD’S SHACK—Casual comfort food includes tacos, pizza and sandwiches. Specialties include meats smoked in-house (chicken, turkey, bris-

ket, pork), barbecue pizza, and steelhead trout tacos. 4523 Summer. 761-9898. 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 (check online for additional locations). L, D, X, MRA, $ GRIDLEY’S—Offers barbecued ribs, shrimp, pork plate, chicken, and hot tamales; also daily lunch specials. Closed Tues. 6842 Stage Rd. 377-8055. L, D, X, $-$$ LA TAQUERIA GUADALUPANA—Fajitas and quesadillas are just a few of the authentic Mexican entrees offered here. A bona-fide Memphis institution. 4818 Summer. 685-6857; 5848 Winchester. 365-4992. L, D, $ LOTUS—Authentic Vietnamese-Asian fare, including lemon-grass chicken and shrimp, egg rolls, Pho soup, and spicy Vietnamese vermicelli. 4970 Summer. 682-1151. D, X, $ MORTIMER’S—Contemporary American entrees include trout almondine, chicken dishes, and hand-cut steaks; also sandwiches, salads, and daily/nightly specials. A Memphis landmark since the Knickerbocker closed. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 590 N. Perkins. 761-9321. L, D, X, $-$$ NAGASAKI INN—Chicken, steak, and lobster are among the main courses; meal is cooked at your table. 3951 Summer. 454-0320. D, X, $$ PANDA GARDEN—Sesame chicken and broccoli beef are among the Mandarin and Cantonese entrees; also seafood specials and fried rice. Closed for lunch Saturday. 3735 Summer. 323-4819. L, D, X, $-$$ 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, $-$$

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 openfaced San Diegan omelet; also daily specials, and homemade breads and pastries. Closed Mon. 3519 Walker. 324-0144. B, X, $ CHAR RESTAURANT—Specializing in modern Southern cuisine, this eatery offers homestyle sides, char-broiled steaks, and fresh seafood. 431 S. Highland #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, $-$$ JOES’ ON HIGHLAND—Specializes in fried chicken and comfort sides such as warm okra/green tomato salad and turnip greens. Entrees include salmon patties and chicken-fried steak. Closed Mon. 262 S. Highland. 337-7003. L, D, X, $ MEDALLION—Offers steaks, seafood, chicken, and pasta entrees. Closed for dinner Sunday. 3700 Central, Holiday Inn (Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality). 678-1030. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ 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, $

OUT-OF-TOWN BOZO’S HOT PIT BAR-B-Q—Barbecue, burgers, sandwiches, and subs. 342 Hwy 70 (Mason, TN). 901-294-3400. L, D, $-$$ CATFISH BLUES—Serving Delta-raised catfish and Cajun- and Southern-inspired dishes, including gumbo and fried green tomatoes. 210 E. Commerce (Hernando, MS). 662-298-3814. L, D, $

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CITY GROCERY—Southern eclectic cuisine; shrimp and grits is a specialty. Closed for dinner Sunday. 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, $-$$$ LONG ROAD CIDER CO.—Specializes in hard apple ciders made with traditional methods. Cafe-style entrees include black-eyed peas with cornbread and greens, chicken Gorgonzola pockets, cider-steamed sausage, and housemade ice creams. Closed Sun.-Wed. 9053 Barret Road. (Barretville, TN). 352-0962. D, X, $ MANILA FILIPINO RESTAURANT—Entrees include pork belly cutlet with lechon sauce, and shrimp and vegetables in tamarind broth; also daily combos, rice dishes, and chef specials. Closed Sun.-Mon. 7849 Rockford (Millington, TN). 209-8525. L, D, X, $ MARSHALL STEAKHOUSE—Rustic steakhouse serves premium Angus beef steaks, seafood dishes, rack of lamb, and more. Breakfast menu features griddle cakes, and lunch offerings include hamburger steak and oyster po’ boys. 2379 Highway 178 (Holly Springs, MS). 628-3556. B, L, D, X, $-$$$ MEMPHIS BARBECUE COMPANY—Offers spare ribs, baby backs, and pulled pork and brisket, along with such sides as mac-and-cheese, grits, and red beans. 709 Desoto Cove (Horn Lake, MS). 662-536-3762. L, D, X, $-$$ NAGOYA—Offers traditional Japanese cuisine and sushi bar; specialties are teriyaki and tempura dishes. 7075 Malco Blvd., Suite 101 (Southaven, MS). 662-349-8788. L, D, X, $-$$$

CASINO TABLES BOURBON STREET STEAKHOUSE & GRILL AT SOUTHLAND CASINO RACING—1550 Ingram Blvd., West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182. 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. 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. SAMMY HAGAR’S RED ROCKER BAR & GRILL AT SOUTHLAND PARK—1550 Ingram Blvd., West Memphis, AR, 1-870-735-3670 ext. 5208 THE STEAKHOUSE AT THE FITZ—711 Lucky Ln., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-766-LUCK, ext 8213. PANCHO’S—Serves up a variety of Mexican standards, including tacos, enchiladas, and mix-and-match platters; also lunch specials. 3600 E. Broadway (West Memphis, AR). 870-735-6466. 717 N. White Station. 685-5404. L, D, X, MRA, $ 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, $-$$ SNACKBAR—Billed as an intriguing mix of “French Bistro with North Mississippi Cafe.” Serving a confit duck Croque Monsieur, watermelon-cucumber chaat, pan-fried quail, plus a daily plate special and a raw bar. Chef Vishesh Bhatt was named as Best Chef South by the James Beard Foundation in 2019. 721 N. Lamar (Oxford, MS). 662-236-6363. D, $-$$$ STEAK BY MELISSA—Aged, choice-grade, hand-cut steaks are a specialty here. Also serving fresh seafood dishes, plate lunches, burgers, and sandwiches. 4975 Pepper Chase Dr. (Southaven, MS). 662-342-0602. L, D, WB, X, $-$$$ WILSON CAFE—Serving elevated home-cooking, with such dishes as deviled eggs with cilantro and jalapeño, scampi and grits, and doughnut bread pudding. 2 N. Jefferson (Wilson, AR). 870-6550222. L, D (Wed. through Sat. only), X, $-$$$ J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 79

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LAST STAND

“Never Say No to a Gig” Lessons learned from guitar-playing grandfathers and wise old drummers.

by jesse davis

the beat for, as he called them, “Jimmy Page’s new blues cover band.” I laughed at that, as I think I was supposed to, but after demonstrating his undeniable chops on the drums, the old musician got serious. “Never say no to a gig,” he told me. “You can always quit, but you can’t get yourself asked back after they’ve gone and hired someone else.”

Grandfather Davis

ot long after I moved back to Memphis in 2005, I found myself in a guitar store waiting for a clerk to bring something from the back. At the time, I wore my hair long, and often I could be found sporting a denim jacket with Led Zeppelin’s famous Swan Song logo, a bare-chested angel with his arms thrown out to his sides, embroidered on the back in actual Levi’sbrand gold thread. The length of my hair and the logo emblazoned on my jacket are of some import because, as I waited, I was addressed by an older man sitting behind a drum kit. The man had longish hair, though his was a stately gray, and he spoke with a British accent. I never learned his name, or I’ve since forgotten it, but he gave me advice that has been, for better or worse, one of the guiding principles of my life ever since. “Fan of them?” he asked, and

when I raised an eyebrow, he clarified, “Led Zeppelin.” I confirmed his suspicion, and the man behind the drum set nodded his head, a little sadly. That’s when he blew my mind wide open. “I could’ve had that gig, you know,” he said, before going on to explain that he was from Manchester, England, and used to be in demand as a drummer. He’d been asked to try out for Zeppelin, but, he claimed, he had no interest in keeping

blowing so many smoke rings. To be fair, though, I was already primed for the Man from Manchester’s message. I come from a family of musicians — and hard workers. As much as the Davis men have disagreed about politics, fashion, and whether or not Led Zeppelin are just “noise,” we all inherited the hard work bug. A n ex a mp le: When live, on-air performances were the norm for radio, my grandfather’s band used to steal such gigs Jesse Davis from Roy Acuff. Good advice, Yes, Roy Acuff, of no? Especially for a f ledgling writer Acuff-Rose Music fame, and musician just returned possibly one of the best fiddle players of all time. to his hometown and eager for any work he can find. Of course, On stormy nights, Grandadthat old man behind the drum set dy’s band would show up at was probably born in Mississippi, a radio station, early, in tune, not Manchester, and, after taking and willing to play for half of one look at my jean jacket and whatever Acuff was charging. Jimmy Page wanThey would put on worried exnabe haircut, fig“You can always ured he could fake pressions and tell quit, but you can’t get an English accent tales of f looded well enough to lay roads. Hopefulyourself asked back a brain basher on ly good ol’ Roy’s after they’ve gone and the skinny kid in car wasn’t stuck hired someone else.” in the mud on a music store. Well s o m e c o u nt r y played, sir. Who —the man road, they’d say. could have known from Again, I feel I that his advice, manchester must confess to probably offered in jest, would lead being too credume to this gig — writing for a lous. My grandfather and his magazine I love? band couldn’t have pulled this Still, my meeting with the Man stunt too many times; Acuff was from Manchester, as I’ve come the grandson of a senator and to think of him, has, in the interwell-connected in Tennessee. vening years, taken on mythic Still, whether it was a stunt pulled once or a few dozen proportions for me. He appeared times, the lesson I took away like a character out of Tolkein, a gray-bearded Gandalf of the was this: Show up early, no matguitar store, dispensing wisdom ter the weather, because hard with the easy manner of a wizard work will take you places.

80 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0

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12/17/19 10:30 AM

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