PRIME TIME AT PORCELLINO’S | DO-IT-YOURSELF COCKTAILS | LAFAYETTE DRAPER Memphis • THE CITY MAGAZINE • W W W.MEMPHISMAGAZINE.COM
THE CITY MAGAZINE
VOL XXXIX NO 11 | FEBRUARY 2015
TOP 1O
NEW
RESTAURANTS FOR 2015
USA $4.99
0 2
PRESENTING OUR READERS’ RESTAURANT POLL WINNERS!
—1 5
DISPLAY UNTIL MARCH 10, 2015
Macaroons from Tart
The BMW 320i
roadshowbmw.com 901-365-2584
THE BMW 320i. Introducing the BMW 320i. With available features like BMW ConnectedDrive, SiriusXMTM Radio, and no-cost maintenance, you’ll get everything you want. Not to mention the thrill you can only experience in the 3 Series.
STARTING AT $35,300. NO-COST MAINTENANCE
UP TO 4 YRS / 50K MILES1
Roadshow BMW | 405 N. Germantown Parkway | Memphis-Cordova, TN 39018 | 901-365-2584 | roadshowbmw.com 1For
model year 2015 or later vehicles sold or leased by an authorized BMW center on or after July 1, 2014, BMW Maintenance Program coverage is not transferable to subsequent purchasers, owners or lessees. Please see bmwusa.com/UltimateService or ask your authorized BMW center for details. ©2015 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.
Pediatric ER is Now Open! Spence and Becky Wilson Baptist Children’s Hospital Visit us online at baptistonline.org/pediatrics
The region’s first freestanding women’s hospital has
expanded
with
the
opening
of
the
Spence and Becky Wilson Baptist Children’s Hospital, dedicated to caring for your children from birth through their teens. All pediatric services, including the new Pediatric ER, are conveniently located under one roof, with easy parking and access, and the same level of exceptional care you’ve come to expect from Baptist. If you have an emergency, please visit the ER or call 911.
6225 Humphreys Blvd., Memphis, TN 38120
901-227-PEDS (7337)
Get Better.
OYSTER PERPETUAL DATEJUST L ADY 31
rolex
oyster perpetual and datejust are trademarks.
The Face of Memphis Bob Loeb, President of Loeb Properties, former chair of the Memphis University School board and of the $26.5 million capital campaign for St. Mary’s Episcopal School, lifesaver to Overton Square, Memphis magazine’s 2014 Memphian Of The Year, B.S. and M.B.A. graduate of Southern Methodist University, and fan of the University of Memphis. “The value of a major university at a city’s core cannot be overestimated. Potential becomes reality in its classrooms, progress is measured on its campus, promises are made to tomorrow in every commencement. Regardless of where you went, this is where your city is going. We at Northwestern Mutual are proud to join other civic leaders in recognition and support of the Fogelman College of Business & Economics, University of Memphis. We are, each and all, Tigers.” Jim Meeks, Managing Partner, Northwestern Mutual Memphis
1770 Kirby Pkwy Suite 400 | www.nm.com/memphis
Ready. Set. Go anywhere. Introducing the all-new GLA.
THE 2015 GLA 4MATIC STARTING AT
®
33,300*
$
Make every trip an adventure with the muscular, versatile, all-new GLA. Its power liftgate opens to an expansive cargo space and split-folding rear seats, making it the perfect companion for any excursion. With advanced aerodynamics, striking design details and an exceptional starting price, it’s everything you could want and more in a compact SUV. The 2015 GLA. An entirely new automotive experience from the company that’s always been known for pioneering them. Visit MBUSA.com/GLA
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
2015 GLA 250 4MATIC® shown in Cirrus White metallic paint with optional equipment. *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. ©2014 Authorized Mercedes-Benz Dealers For more information, call 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES, or visit MBUSA.com.
CARRIE ANDERSON
RYAN ANDERSON
LINDA ASH
CATHLEEN BLACK
ALEESA BLUM
ASHLEY BONDS
MELODY BOURELL
CAMILLA BRINNER
LEANNE BROOKS
DAVID BRYAN
MARGARET BURKE
RAMONA CHAPMAN
KATIE NICHOLS COOK
JON DICKENS
TRACY DOUGAN
BARBARA DUFOUR
KELLY ERB
RIP HANEY
Celebrating 146 Years Selling all Around Town
s s s
Established 1868 5860 Ridgeway Center Parkway, Suite 100 Memphis, Tennessee 38120 901-682-1868
Learn more about us and our market at marx-bensdorf.com
LINDA KAPLAN
GREG RENFROW
LAURENCE KENNER
JERRY LUCIUS
SHELDON ROSENGARTEN
DIANE BENSON MALKIN
MELONIE SAIN SIMPSON
COURTNEY MURRAH
STEPHANIE SHEAHAN
ANGIE STREET
BARBY PERLBERG
MIKE PARKER
TERI TROTTER
OWNER
OWNER
OWNER
SVP/RELOCATION & CLIENT SERVICES
JIM BLACK
JIMMY REED
DAVID TESTER
EILEEN CHERNY
MARY FRANCES PITTS
WARD WALTHAL
LITA HURSTON REED
LAUREN HARKINS WIUFF
&7
TOP 1O
FEBRUARY 2015 VOL XXXIX NO 11 on the cover: Macaroons from Tart, one of the Top 10 new restaurants of 2015. photograph by justin fox burks
NEW
Up Front 14 16 20 22 24 26 31
in the beginning spotlight fine print city journal front and center out and about fashion
Features
PRESENTING OUR READERS’ RESTAURANT POLL WINNERS!
35 Top Ten New Restaurants And the winners of our annual readers’ poll.
~ by pamela denney
47 A Toast in His Memory Lafayette Draper was a Memphis institution.
~ by darrell uselton and sarah haizlip
54 The Butcher, the Baker, and the Coffee Maker With Porcellino’s, Memphis chefs Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman create an audacious mix of culinary accomplishments. ~ by pamela denney
60 Shake It Up Demystifying the craft of artisanal cocktails. ~ by hannah bailey
67 901 Health: Seeing Clearly A look at eye care (including some visionary nutrition tips). ~ by shara clark Memphis (ISSN 1622-820x) is published monthly for $15 per year by Contemporary Media, Inc., 460 Tennessee Street, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 © 2015. 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.
Columns/Departments
35
78 ask vance
Memphis Umbrella Company Our trivia expert solves local mysteries of who, what, when, where, why and why not. ~ by vance lauderdale
80 books
Service With a Smile Memphians and local chefs team up to benefit the arts. ~ by leonard gill
88 city dining
Tidbits: Napa Café; plus the city’s most extensive dining listings.
128 last stand
Labor of Love: The restaurant industry is home to many of Memphis’ unsung heroes. ~ by felicia willett
FEBRUARY 20 15 • MEMPHISMAGA ZINE.COM • 7
BONUS
We Know Fine Furniture from Start to Finish.
In This Issue RETAIL THER APY Valentine Gift Guide
B
B
Limited edition sculptures by Paul Horton. The perfect gift for your valentine!
2
3
2029 Union Avenue | 901-274-1910 | 1910frameworks.com Over 100 years experience framing memories
1
5
CHRISTOPHER PADGETT
4 1 Show her she's Loved with this gold necklace by 2. 2 Shaving with Jack Black ensures Chickee Boom. 1. 3 Wow your Valentine with the smoothest cheeks. 5. 4 Set the mood with a this Hearts & Roses dress. 3. 5 Sparkle all Gin & Rosewater Tokyo Milk Candle. 4. night in this Head Band.
MAKEUP ARTIST
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Roses are red; Violets are blue; We have
Hanky Panky
Taste NOLA fare and wine as Joy signs her latest book. It’s a perfect gift—just in time for Mardi Gras and Valentine’s Day!)
just for you!
February 12th at 6:30 pm www.joysartofdining.com
R O M A N T I C AT T I R E S I N C E 1 94 9
387 Perkins Extended, Memphis 38117
408 Perkins Ext | Memphis, TN 38117 | 901-682-7575 | Mon - Sat 10 - 5:30
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 65
page 65 Don’t let this special holiday sneak up on you without the perfect gift for your loved one. Shop any of the featured Memphis area’s leading retailers to ensure your gift hits the mark this Valentine’s Day.
SCENE DINING SCENE DINING 2015
L
ooking for the right spot for that first date? What about something new for your next anniversary? Or do you simply find yourself with a hankering for a nice, thick burger and fries? Whatever your craving may be, you’re sure to find a delectable destination on the following pages.
FEBRUARY 2015
Aldo’s Pizza Pies Downtown
Aldo’s Pizza Pies Midtown
100 S. Main Street • 901.5.777.PIE • aldospizzapies.com
752 S. Cooper Avenue • 901.725.PIES • aldospizzapies.com
Main Street’s most happening patio invites you for a slice and a shot of house-made limoncello! Enjoy 60 brews (30 drafts) or a handcrafted cocktail from our new list and your workday woes will melt away. We also offer fresh salads, sandwiches, and the best NY Cheesecake in Memphis. Open 7 days a week. Kid friendly. We deliver downtown.
Downtown’s favorite New York Style pie heads to Midtown with our new location located at 752 S. Cooper. Revisit the old Two-Way-Inn with new pizza pie flair. Enjoy the same great house-made dough, fresh ingredients and kid friendly service you’ve grown to love from our downtown location a little closer to home. We can’t wait to meet you Midtown! Opening Soon!
Arcade Restaurant
Babalu
The Arcade Restaurant — Memphis’ oldest cafÊ — is located in the South Main Historic District, on the trolley line. Surrounded by glowing neon signs and 1920s architecture, diners enjoy such modern favorites as pesto, feta, and walnut pizza. Also serving country ham, sweet potato pancakes, hot plate lunches, cheeseburgers and fries. Large private dining room available.
Babalu Tacos & TapasŽ, located in Memphis’ newly revitalized Overton Square, is a lively restaurant that uses fresh and local ingredients to create bold flavors. You will find a variety of authentic gourmet tacos, Spanishstyle tapas and handcrafted cocktails with a Southern twist. Every item on the menu, down to the blue corn tortilla, is made from scratch daily — our famous guacamole is prepared tableside. Our bar carries the finest tequilas, and all drinks are handcrafted daily using fresh squeezed lemons and limes. Open: Monday-Thursday, 11AM-10PM; Friday-Saturday, 11AM-11PM; Sunday, 11AM-9PM.
540 South Main Street • 901.205.2500 • arcaderestaurant.com
pages 82 - 87 Tired of ďŹ guring out the answer to the inevitable question: What’s for dinner? Take a look at some of the most mouthwatering restaurants in Memphis.
2115 Madison Avenue • 901.274.0100 • babalutacos.com
82 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
Coming In April
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FACES OF THE MID SOUTH 2015
2015
FACES OF THE
FACES OF THE
MID-SOUTH
MID-SOUTH
2015
FACES OF THE MID-SOUTH
THE FACE OF
INTERNAL MEDICINE
BOWDEN INTERNAL MEDICINE >>> Marcia R. Bowden, MD
THE FACE OF
FURS
HOLLOWAY FURS >>> Holloway Furs, located at 404 Perkins Extended, was established in 1992 by Master Furrier Jim Holloway after eight years of apprenticeship with four different Master Furriers. We specialize in custom-made garments, fur coat enlargements, reductions, and remodeling. All types of repairs, monograms and appraisals. Cold storage and cleaning/glazing are also offered by Holloway Furs. We have a newly remodeled cold storage and cleaning facility located in East Memphis. We have the largest inventory with the best prices in the Memphis area. We accept trade-ins and offer a 12-month layaway program. All work is done in house by Jim Holloway and his staff. Jim also specializes in the manufacturing of beaver and mink blankets/throws. Open six days a week. Come meet Jim and the friendly staff at Holloway Furs.
Dr Marcia R. Bowden has provided Preventive Medicine and Primary Healthcare to the Mid-South for the last 15 years. The practice concentrates on health education and maintenance, performing annual examinations, health screenings, weight management, urgent care, and the routine care of diabetes and hypertension. Modifying the risk of disease and improving the quality of life, and participating in landmark health research and expanding the practice to include bone density monitoring. She believes that health care providers have community responsibility and serves on the board of directors of The Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis and K.S. Community Development Corporation and is working on a multispecialty facility in an underserved community in Memphis.
THE FACE OF
DIVORCE LAW THE RICES >>>
Need a divorce? Consider yourself fortunate if you can hire the Rices. From founding partner George, to Larry, and onto Nick, the Rices are the only source for three generations of divorce experience. There is more than being born for this work. For 25 years, the American Bar Association has published Larry’s Complete Guide to Divorce Practice, of which Nick is now co-author. Fellow lawyers recognize their expertise by designating Larry as a Super Lawyer and Nick as a Super Lawyer Rising Star in Family Law. Their guide for divorce can be found at AboutDivorce.com.
404 Perkins Extended | 901.685.3877 SPECIAL PROMOTION
1652 Madison Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 901.278.9538
SPECIAL PROMOTION
2015
SPECIAL PROMOTION
THE CITY MAGAZINE
FACES OF THE
Faces of the Mid-South Issue Date:
MID-SOUTH
Only one “face� per category! Deadline now — call your sales rep!
April 2015
2015
2015
FACES OF THE
FACES OF THE
MID-SOUTH
MID-SOUTH
THE FACE OF
PEDIATRIC CARE
BAPTIST MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOR WOMEN >>> At Baptist, we are experts at taking care of kids. After all, we’ve been doing it for more than 100 years. Our powerhouse team of specialists at Baptist Women’s Hospital are a resource for all your family’s needs from pediatric hospitalists who provide round-the-clock care to pediatric surgeons who provide general and specialized medicine. Emergency medicine physicians specially trained in pediatric care will staff our emergency department, slated to open at the end of the
year, and neurologists provide specialized care for our smallest patients’ needs. The hospital boasts the area’s only pediatric and neonatal eye center — designed to serve as a regional resource and provide the full continuum of care, from surgery to recovery to follow-up care. Our convenient location makes it easy for you and your family to get efficient, top-notch care that fits with your busy schedule, and our staff is specially trained to deal with children’s health and emotional needs.
SPECIAL PROMOTION
Showcasing the creative individuals behind some of Memphis’ favorite brands. Full-page and full-page-spread proďŹ les of individuals at the leading businesses in our area are featured. For more information on advertising or our upcoming special sections, please contact Penelope Huston at 901.575.9402 or penelope@memphismagazine.com 8 • MEMPHISMAGA ZINE.COM • FEBRUARY 20 15
Scan Here! Follow Us! Pearl River Resort • Choctaw, MS near Philadelphia • 1.866.44PEARL(1.866.447.3275) • www.pearlriverresort.com A development of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians
Memphis THE CIT Y MAGAZINE
&7 PUBLISHER/EDITOR kenneth neill SENIOR EDITORS michael finger, marilyn sadler MANAGING EDITOR frank murtaugh ARTS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR anne cunningham o’neill FASHION EDITOR augusta campbell FOOD EDITOR pamela denney SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR shara clark CONTRIBUTING EDITORS richard alley, jackson baker,
john branston, anna cox, susan ellis, leonard gill, sarah haizlip, tom jones, vance lauderdale, toby sells, darrell uselton EDITORIAL INTERN hannah bailey
4 CREATIVE DIRECTOR brian groppe ADVERTISING OPERATIONS DIRECTOR margie neal ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR christopher myers GRAPHIC DESIGNERS dominique pere, bryan rollins PHOTOGRAPHY justin fox burks, don perry
4 published by contemporary media, inc. 460 tennessee street, memphis, tn 38103 901-521-9000 p • 901-521-0129 f subscriptions: 901-521-9000
4
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER kenneth neill CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER jennifer k. oswalt
you make our work possible.
DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT jeffrey a. goldberg EDITORIAL DIRECTOR bruce vanwyngarden
0HGLFDO :HOOQHVV 2XWUHDFK
DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL/OPERATIONS molly willmott ADVERTISING DIRECTOR penelope huston SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES joy bateman,
sloane patteson taylor
27 years and our mission is unchanged. Thanks to the generous support of Memphians like you, our hardworking patients can rest in the knowledge that their medical, dental, and other health needs will continue to be met.
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE shaina guttman DIGITAL MANAGER matthew writt EVENTS MANAGER jackie sparks-davila MARKETING CONSULTANT britt ervin READER SERVICE COORDINATOR lynn sparagowski ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR ashley haeger IT DIRECTOR joseph carey IT ASSISTANT ashlee taylor RECEPTIONIST martin lane
&7 february 2015
901-272-7170 | churchhealthcenter.org member: City and Regional Magazine Association member: Circulation Verification Council 10 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
ON THE WEB
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Highlights from memphismagazine.com Our revised, revamped, and reader-friendly website is designed to supplement the printed magazine you are holding in your hands. For further reading on related subjects in this issue, use the “Archives” link on our website:
“A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MEMPHIS FOODIE” (February 2014) “THE FRENCH CONNECTION: CHEF JOSE GUTIERREZ REFLECTS ON HIS CULINARY CAREER,” by hannah sayle (February 2013)
Our Blogs For a closer look at Memphis — past and present — visit our regular blogs:
901 Compiled by the staff of Memphis magazine, this is where readers can find tidbits relating to all facets of life in the Bluff City. memphismagazine.com/Blogs/901
MEMPHIS S TE W We celebrate our city’s community table and the people who grow, cook, and eat the best Memphis food. memphismagazine.com/Blogs/Memphis-Stew
A SK VA NCE
The South’s leader in Estate Jewelry and Diamond Solitaires Located in Historic Downtown New Albany, MS
1.866.VANATKINS vanatkins.com
Vance Lauderdale, our man-about-town and history columnist, talks about who, what, when, where, why — and why not. memphismagazine.com/Blogs/Ask-Vance
S T Y L E WAT CH Tips and techniques for looking good in Memphis. memphismagazine.com/Blogs/Style-Watch
SPO TLIGHT
er
IN STONE by Craig Brown, LLC
901-331-4435
12 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
Aft
Be fo
re
Snaps from parties and events around Memphis. memphismagazine.com/Blogs/Party-Pix
GE T TING OU T The online magazine offers a complete events calendar, accessible on the home page, searchable by date and type of event.
E ATING OU T For the most comprehensive RESTAURANT LISTINGS in town — arranged by their name, location, neighborhood, and even the type of food served — go to memphismagazine.com
Grownup Getaway #playtime
#chowtime
#gotime
visitgreenwood.com
662-453-9197 • 1-800-748-9064
#travelgreenwood This project is partially funded by Visit Mississippi.
14 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
IN THE BEGINNING | by kenneth neill
Change for the Better
T
he times they are a-changing,” Bob Dylan once sang, and at no point in time are we all more conscious of this fact than at the beginning of a new year. Change is hard, of course, sometimes in the most trivial of areas. For example, this year it took me (as usual) several weeks into January before I stopped putting “2014” on my checks. My rule of thumb about wishing people “Happy New Year” is that I stop doing so when my checkbook scribbles remind me that yes, the calendar is a-changing. (And yes, if you think using paper checks this February, as our bi-monthly business makes me a Luddite, so be it. I steer clear of publication has undergone a major redesign online banking not out of fear of the new, and its own mini-metamorphosis. “The Magabut because of lingering fear of the wrath zine Formerly Known as MBQ” is now called of my father, who’d be most displeased if I simply Inside Memphis Business. The new name didn’t balance my checkbook manually. Some says it all; as the city’s premier business magathings you don’t change unless zine, Inside Memphis Business or until you must.) covers the stories behind But I digress. Change can the daily business news, fobe good or bad, or a mixture cusing upon the big picture of both, but in one area of loof economic change in the cal life — the Memphis resMid-South. We all hope you enjoy the taurant scene, which has been the cornerstone of our annual new name, the new look, and “Dining Issue” since way back most importantly, the new in 1983 — has seen a transforcontent of Inside Memphis mation in the past year that Business. If you aren’t already getting a copy at work or at is remarkable — and remarkhome, check out local bookably positive. I can well remember when stores, or just call us directly truly excellent restaurants in at 901-521-9000. Yes, this is January 1994 Memphis were few and far beshameless self-promotion, but we’re all very proud of what the IMB tween. Back in the 1980s, we had an annual dining feature we called “Dinner at Eight,” staff has done, and look for wonderful things our choice of the best eight restaurants in in the future from our now 9-year-old little town. One year we could only find six. sister. Onward and upward! P.S. Be sure to check inside the February/ Today, all that has changed, utterly. With hives of neighborhood restaurants, bars, March issue of Inside Memphis Business for a and bistros, all over town, half a dozen brew major feature on what was unquestionably pubs, and dynamic fine-dining districts in the biggest business story in town in 2014, Midtown, East Memphis, and Downtown, one that will have impact upon this region’s economic development for decades to come. our culinary landscape has been completely “The Delta Blues: Aerotropolis at the Crosstransformed. roads” deals with the circumstances that led This issue’s cover story, for example, celebrates ten spectacular dining establishments, to Delta Air Lines’ closing of its Memphis pasall of which opened in 2014! To find out more senger hub, and the ramifications of that “deabout them, check out who’s who among the hubbing” for our community’s future. This is new on page 35. Twenty years ago it was a absolutely, positively one business story you miracle if we had three new restaurants a year will not want to miss. altogether, let alone ten that were first-rate. Kenneth Neill Closer to home, we here at Contemporary editor/publisher Media are celebrating another big change
Corrections for the January 2015 issue: Selinda “LinD” Bradley’s name was misspelled on page 20. The Home Design Awards photographs on page 34 are by Nathan W. Berry. We regret the errors.
Š2014 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of all traffic laws at all times.
Adrenaline shots. Now administered via ignition key. The rush is immediate. A 340-horsepower twin-turbo V6. Standard PDK double-clutch transmission. Active all-wheel drive with Porsche Traction Management for maximum grip in varying driving conditions. The new Porsche Macan S is built around our defining belief that every drive should be unforgettable. And every car should be a sports car. Discover a more adrenalized life with a test drive. Porsche. There is no substitute.
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Gossett Porsche 1875 Covington Pike Memphis TN 38128 (901) 388-8989 www.gossett.porschedealer.com
Porsche recommends
SPOTLIGHT | Regions Delivers Cheeriodicals to Le Bonheur | December 15, 2014 | photography by Don Perry
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ssociates of Regions Bank and Cheeriodicals brought some holiday joy to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in the form of 130 “big green boxes of cheer.” Patients at the hospital received activity books, room decorations, stickers, games, and even piggy banks (courtesy of Regions). “Making life better for others is at the core of what we set out to achieve every day,” says David May, area president of Regions Bank. 1 Piggy banks from Cheeriodicals 2 Floyd Harvey, David May 3 Larson Marsher, Jalusa Miller
6 16 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
4 Floyd Harvey, Anthony Hotchkiss, David May, Jon Tutor, Michael Pardue, Diane White, Earl Connell, Tressa Ogles, Dean Puryear 5 Peyton Quigley 6 Juan Francisco
M Y L A G O S M Y W AY
CAVIAR COLLECTIONS
SPOTLIGHT | Memphis Super Lawyers | December 4, 2014 | Photography by Don Perry
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n what has become an annual celebration, many of the Mid-South’s finest attorneys gathered at Mercedes Benz of Memphis. The guests of honor each appeared in the 2014 edition of Super Lawyers (the Memphis edition appeared in our December issue). The reception — “Celebrating Excellence," hosted by Memphis magazine — also saluted rising stars in the legal field.
18 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
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1 Ted Davis and Steven Johnson 2 Diane Vescovo and Michael McLaren 3 Leslie Ballin, McKinley Singleton, Blake Ballin, and Randy Fishman 4 Larry and Joy Rice 5 John Heflin, Matthew Thornton, and Robert Alvarez 6 Emily Campbell, Gary Smith, and Thomas Greer 7 Ruthie Hagan, Megan Arthur, and Jana Lamanna 8 Gary Morrell and Leslie Jackson
EAST MEMPHIS
Jeanne Arthur
Fontaine Taylor
Tom Kimbrough BROKER
ET[G NGKMG EQO Ĺ&#x2022;
Clara Yerger
5QWVJ 2GTMKPU Ĺ&#x2022; /GORJKU 60
Lauren Mig Harkins Wiuff Williams
Steve Bearman
Megan Stout
Fontaine Brown
Carol O. Stout
44 Big Bear Creek Rd Mig Williams - Owner/Agent
$3,950,000 901-239-3149
9396 Riveredge Dr
$500,000
Clara Yerger Jeanne Nixon
901-834-0099 901-550-2482
Sandra Charlton
Carol Stout
ÂŽ
ÂŽ
Tom Davis
Stephanie Sheahan
Tracy Dougan
Suzanne Plyler
Loura Edmondson
Jan Gordon
652 S Willett Street
$875,000
Suzanne Plyler - Owner/Agent 901-237-2550
Janie Hopkins
Joy Kimborough
Nan Lee
200 Wagner #704 Jeanne Arthur
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$267,500 901-634-2800
Kathryn Anne Matheny
Jesse Meekins
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Airbnb Home sharing offers the right place and right price.
by john branston
I
f your taste in lodging runs to something more exciting than Hampton Inns and you don’t mind the occasional pet, futon, voodoo décor, or glassed-in aviary, then I highly recommend Airbnb to you.
My wife and I used the homesharing option five times in five states last year and had positive experiences each time with only minor inconvenience. We were newbies a year ago when my retirement from full-time writing gave us a chance to take more trips. A corporate titan of the sharing economy, Airbnb has evolved well beyond the air mattresses on the floor of its early days. There are more than 100 listings in greater Memphis, ranging from a room in Midtown for $21 to the entire Snowden House on Horseshoe Lake in Arkansas for $500 a night. Most are under $100. The hotel industry, legal eagles, tax collectors, and various busybodies have cracked down in New York and San Francisco, but Memphis seems to have escaped their notice for the most part, so far. I like to walk the neighborhoods in the places I visit and talk to locals. Interviewing habits die hard. I scrutinize host profiles, guest reviews, and maps. And I hate paying $125 a night for a motel room where I spend as little time as possible. So Airbnb was made for me. When my wife and my sister and I visited Tampa, we felt like we knew our hostess, Cathi, after talking to her for an hour at her funky bungalow 15 minutes from the airport. In a way, we did. She had been in Memphis a week earlier for the Blues Foundation awards and stayed at an Airbnb a few blocks from our house. A hiker and history buff, she had
also taken one of my sister’s guided walks of San Francisco. These were remarkable coincidences, but Airbnb’s host profiles and pictures give you a decent chance of staying with someone with shared interests. Cathi provided two rooms and a private bath for $68. She served coffee and fruit for breakfast with a steady stream of amusing anecdotes. Never rent to someone who says, “My request is a bit unusual” or “There’s just one thing.” Beware of professional ballplayers (the New York Yankees do their spring training in Tampa)
20 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
or anyone who wants your whole house for an extended time at a rich price (possible porno movie). Avoid pets; as a guest she once let a dog out and spent most of her stay searching for it. In St. Louis we stayed for two nights for $168 total in a comfortable one-bedroom apartment in Richmond Heights, close to some good restaurants and nice parks. We never saw our host, Richard, but his place lived up to its 63 four-star and five-star reviews. In Santa Barbara, we stayed in a house in the hills with a swim-
A corporate titan of the sharing economy, Airbnb has evolved well beyond the air mattresses on the floor of its early days. ming pool and a view of the ocean for $96 a night, snacks included. The hostess was a sweet older lady with several parrots and parakeets she kept in a glassenclosed room covered floor to ceiling with newspapers. Not
something you run into much at the Hampton, but we never heard a word out of them. Planning a bike trip to Louisville and Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail in October, I booked a room with a woman named Janice with 122 positive reviews. When an accident forced me to cancel on short notice, she graciously refunded my $40 and invited me to come back another time. In Nashville in November, we stayed two nights in a house south of the Green Hills neighborhood with a couple, their daughter, dog, and another renter. Close quarters all around, even at $48 a night, and my wife couldn’t sleep on the harder-than-advertised futon mattress. Hostess Karyn said she could get more but liked to rent to musicians and give them a break. Positive reviews being the coin of the realm, I wrote one anyway but got nothing, good or bad, in return. Was this a case of “if you can’t say something nice . . . ” about a nosy ex-reporter? So be it. This road warrior has done, and put up with, worse things.
PHOTOGRAPH BY DAMEDEESO | DREAMSTIME
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CITY JOURNAL
Aiming High A successful “moon mission” means confonting problems here on earth.
T
he relationship between the Greater Memphis Chamber and local government is akin to the reply from the elderly wife who was asked the secret to her long marriage: “Can’t live with him. Can’t live without him.”
Over the past 30 years, the office and to reward elected offiChamber has often been a mere cials who support the Chamber’s echo of the city and county mayagenda of change. As a result, it’s ors. Occasionally, it would vow not possible to think of a time to have more independence and since Edmund Orgill was mayor step out front on a volatile issue, of Memphis (1956-1959) when the notably increases in taxes or creChamber flexed more muscle and ation of a new tax, but that was influence than now. normally followed by cuts in pubIn retrospect, some of the lic funding from piqued elected Chamber’s finest moments were officials. Because of it, Chamber when it was a counterbalance leaders learned to walk softly and to prevailing political thinking, carry a small stick. such as the 2001 Memphis Region Sourcebook that laid out It all began in the late 1970s priorities for “creating a strawhen the Chamber went banktegic regional future,” but the rupt and essentially vanished fact remains that our region from the local scene. The lesson has languished at the bottom of depending on memberships to fund operaof the rankings Phil Trenary tions was clear, for economic and government vitality for two (the Chamber’s new funding became decades. Propresident) appears to be grams to make a quick and dethe right person at the pendable fix. Memphis more Little more competitive right time. than a year ago, have reliably been about tweaking and rethe Chamber’s new Chairman’s Circle — a supercharged group packaging existing programs or of super funders — laid out an building public support for about agenda of “moon missions,” but $1 billion in tax abatements for the biggest mission of all was cutbig business in the past decade. ting off funding from Memphis What’s not been done is to and Shelby County governments attack Memphis’ deeply rooted and plunging headlong into setstructural problems, and that’s ting and influencing government one of the major changes in topriorities and challenging the day’s Chamber. Its new president public sector — and the private Phil Trenary, who appears to be sector as well — to act more the right person at the right time, boldly, to refuse to accept “it’s is talking about poverty, the imgood enough for Memphis” as portance of quality of place, the an answer, and to force action, impact of stronger neighboreven if it could be embarrassing hoods, and creation of a thicker to politicians. middle class. It’s an audacious conversation To punctuate the shift in direction and attitude, the Chamber in the face of Memphis’ harsh realities. Low-wage jobs have even set out to create its own political action committee (PAC) dominated the last 15 years of the to encourage people to run for regional economy, and median 22 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
household incomes peaked in 1999. Most disturbing of all, today’s median household income in Memphis is less than a living wage for one adult and one child, the bottom 20 percent of incomes is less than $13,522, and salaries went down by $1,231 in the most recent reporting period. To complicate its work, the Chamber is getting more involved at a time when top-down solutions are treated with suspicion, when the talented workers that Memphis desperately needs often feel that economic development policies aren’t about them but blue-collar workers, and when overt business community leadership is often perceived negatively in political public circles. Despite this, the Chairman’s Circle announced its moon missions: high school workers prepared to work in advanced manufacturing diesel mechanics, welding, or other high-demand trades; connecting Mid-South green spaces and retaining talent, adding 1,000 entrepreneurs in 10 years; high quality education for children from birth to pre-K; and a comprehensive growth plan for the region. Progress is being made, but moon missions don’t happen overnight. By the time a U.S. moon mission was successful, there had already been a dozen failures. As the Chamber tackles its missions, there’s little question that there will be failures along the way. Serious problems like the region’s high rate of poverty, too many jobs that don’t pay a living wage, and too few young professionals with college degrees require nothing as much as time and patience. Nashville has long been proof of the benefits that come from an active and engaged business community. As that city has shown, with it, the sky — if not the moon — is the limit.
PHOTOGRAPH BY KONSTANTTIN | DREAMSTIME
by tom jones
Matt Herron, Alabama, 1965
Title Sponsors
| Dana and Kent Farmer Sponsors Hohenberg Foundation | SunTrust Bank | Thomas W. Briggs Foundation Memphis (TN) Chapter, Links, Incorporated | Fred L. Davis Insurance Agency This is an exhibition organized by the Center for Documentary Expression and Art. Major support for the exhibition has been provided by the Bruce W. Bastian Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts.
brooksmuseum.org
Overton Park
FRONT AND CENTER
Logan Guleff with marilyn sadler
You knew you won MasterChef Junior, but you had to keep it quiet. How hard was that? Very hard. If I had told, I’d be disqualified. I had to keep it secret over summer and fall, till they announced it December 16th. How did you decide on the meal you cooked? I needed redemption on the prawns that I messed up in an earlier competition, so I wanted to prove I could nail them. Picked the big fish, branzino, because it really wows people.
Favorite type of food to eat? Sushi. Utensil you can’t live without? A nice sharp knife. You can take away my cutting board, the kitchen faucet, the stove, all righty — but you’re not taking my knife.
24 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
How will you spend your big prize money? Still haven’t decided. Maybe go to Japan. They’ve really refined their art of cooking and culinary knowledge. Do you watch a lot of cooking shows? We don’t have cable. But I do watch the Mind of a Chef with David Chang and Quantum Kitchen. Food trends you predict? The world is in need of a new sweet. Cupcakes are dying, macaroons are dying. Also I think we’ll see juice pairings with food. Juice might be from carrots, celeries, pears — concentrated and served with the meal. Instead of having dinner with wine, you’ll have this fancy juice and less alcohol. You’ve had lots of interviews. What do you wish someone would ask that they haven’t? Nobody has asked what it was like to be at Paramount Pictures. It was amazing. I watch a lot of old TV, like Chips and MASH, and I could see where all that was filmed. It’s historical. Plus it’s one of the five most haunted places in America. And another question: I wonder what the world would be like without salt and pepper. What would replace the stuff in those shakers on our tables? I’d say maybe cumin and mustard powder. But not salt, I love salt.
Your earliest memory of cooking? Very first was playing with plastic food, like Velcro. You could chop it up, then put it back together. Then I’d make morning coffee for my mom, with a drip pot; I was only about 2. When I was 3, I started helping my mom make ravioli by hand.
Favorite restaurants? Here’s my big three: Panda Garden, my favorite Chinese restaurant. And Tsunami is my favorite higher-end restaurant. Chef Ben Smith taught me how to cook
You’re not wearing a bowtie today; I hardly recognized you. What do you like about them? They’re cool and popular but you don’t see a ton of people wearing them. Mine are all handmade by my godmother; she makes them just for me. She made 14 in one night right before the show and delivered them to me.
seafood ’cause my mom’s allergic to it and my dad can’t cook. Best all-round is Elwood’s Shack. I like the clam chowder.
What’s next for you? I’ve already got my own YouTube channel, my line of spices [Logan’s Rubs], and my blog [Order Up with Logan started at age 8). Don’t ever start a blog. They’re so tiring, demanding. But now I really want to get a cooking show, make a cookbook, keep selling my spice blends. And just have some more fun.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MASTERCHEF JUNIOR
A
t age 9, he flew to New York as a semifinalist in a Jif peanut butter contest; his Chomp Burger placed in the top five. At age 10, with his Tuna Schooner, he was named the Tennessee champion of the Healthy Lunchtime Challenge; he and his mom dined at the White House. Then last December, at age 12, Memphian Logan Guleff grabbed the title of MasterChef Junior on Fox’s popular reality TV show, taking home a cool $100,000. As one of thousands of children ages 8 to 13 who auditioned and competed in the show, Logan rose to the top with — wait for it — a grilled spot prawn with soaked saffron aioli and olive tapenade for his appetizer; and a salt-crusted branzino with chimichurri sauce for his entree. Host Gordon Ramsay called it “one of the most unusual dishes we’d ever seen.” Since then the home-schooled, laughing-eyed, sharp-witted tween — who has “fangirls” as far away as Indonesia — has become a media darling, fielding hundreds of interviews (12 this week alone) in the past few months. His mother, Kim Guleff, can’t account for his culinary gift; she simply says, “There’s a tiny little chef inside his head that tells him these things are gonna go together and make a composed dish.” Recently she and Logan sat down to talk about his early foray into cooking, his favorite restaurants, food trends he predicts, why he loves bowties, and more.
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2.7 Staxtacular
T
he soul-shakin’ extravaganza that was originally the idea of former Grizzlies players Shane Battier and Brian Cardinal has evolved into one of the most prominent charitable events in Memphis. To date, it has netted more than $900,000 for the music education programs of the Soulsville Foundation. This year the star-studded evening will be hosted by Mike Conley, Zach Randolph, Marc Gasol, and Tony Allen. Tickets are $150 and can be purchased by visiting staxtacular.com or calling 261-6338.
Soulsville Museum, 926 E. McLemore Avenue THROUGH
2.15
Rocky Horror Picture Show Innocent Brad and Janet find themselves seeking shelter at a mysterious old castle, where they encounter transvestite Dr. Frank-N-Furter, his “perfect” creation, Rocky, and an assortment of other crazy creatures. Don’t miss Ostrander Award-winner Jerre Dye, as Frank-N-Furter. Playhouse on the Square, 66 S. Cooper, 726-4656
2.1
02.3 - 3.1
Tour: Pre-Columbian Collection with Elizabeth Cruzado Hear the mysterious tales behind this ancient art from Elizabeth Cruzado, co-director of PIARA, a research and community development nonprofit based in Huaylas, Peru. Her archeological work has extended to the highland Andes, including the World Heritage Site of Chavín de Huantar.
The Lion King Grab the kiddos, family, and friends and experience the dazzling costumes and unforgettable tunes that encompass the circle of life around The Lion King’s Pride Rock. This Tony award-winning musical has been declared the highest-grossing show of all time (beating out favorites such as Phantom of the Opera) according to the Associated Press, and it’s not hard to see why.
Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, 1934 Poplar Avenue, 544-6200
The Orpheum Theatre, 230 S. Main, 525-3000
2.7
2.13
2.20-22
Mummenschanz This Swiss theatre troupe employs the use of masks, props, and movement to perfectly depict stories, scenarios, and ideas — without a single word. It’s a larger-than-life show you have to see to believe.
Vivace — Valentine Concert Just in time for the most romantic day of the year, couples of all ages can enjoy the classicalcrossover sounds of a band that pairs opera and pop.
Ballet Memphis: I Am Showcasing a symphony of struggles and triumph in four world premiere works, this production includes “I Am a Man,” which draws from the blues, slave, and spiritual culture of Africans in the Americas; “I Am a Woman,” which reflects culture and women’s roles; and “I Am a Child,” which draws its inspiration from the charred remains of an Alabama Church.
Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter Road, 751-7500
2.7-15 Memphis Open Memphis definitely has the advantage in this round as top players from around the world give locals the chance to see their favorite pros battle it out on the court. Game. Set. Match. Racquet Club of Memphis, 5111 Sanderlin, 765-4401
2.13 Mavis Staples This gospel and R&B legend has been singing her way into hearts for more than 50 years. Originally recording with her family, The Staple Singers, Mavis has successfully maintained a flourishing career. With songs from her latest album, One True Vine, she takes listeners on a journey from searching for faith to glorious belief. Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter Road, 751-7500
26 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center, 3663 Appling Road, 385-6440
2.13 Whiskey, Wine, and Chocolate Pairing Sweeten your Valentine’s Day celebration with chocolatier Phillip Ashley, as he pairs his creations with alcoholic beverages ranging from whiskeys to a bit of bubbly. Memphis Botanic Garden, 750 Cherry Road, 636-4100
2.13 – 3.1 Copenhagen A Tony Award-winning play based around a meeting between the physicists Niels Bohr and Werner Heisenberg in Copenhagen in 1941. It follows their complex relationship coming together in the afterlife to understand a real-life friendship that spurred media attention and world-wide debate about science and morality. Theatre Memphis, 630 Perkins Ext., 682-8323
Playhouse on the Square, 66 S. Cooper, 726-4656
2.27 – 3.22 Assassins This provocative winner of five Tony Awards in 2004 looks at the lives, loves, and lunacy of nine men and women who have attempted — some successfully — to kill American presidents. Set to a Stephen Sondheim score, the story follows some of history’s most notorious players including John Wilkes Booth, Lee Harvey Oswald, and Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme. The Circuit Playhouse, 51 S. Cooper, 726-4656
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2.28 “Hands of Hope” Auction Party The Exchange Club Family Center, an area nonprofit agency dedicated to assisting local families and ending the cycle of child abuse and domestic violence, hosts its annual fundraising party complete with a silent and live auction, live music provided by Magi and Charvey Mac, dancing, and gourmet food stations. The University Club, 1346 Central Avenue, exchangeclub. net/handsofhope
2.28 Memphis Symphony Orchestra: Mozart, Gershwin & Rachmaninoff Conductor Mei-Ann Chen, pianist Orion Wess, and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra will take your breath away with a performance of Mozart’s “Concerto No. 25” and Rachmaninoff’s “Symphony No. 2.” Cannon Center for the Performing Arts, 255 N. Main, 537-2525 THROUGH
3.29
Lester Julian Merriweather: “Nothing Is For Ever Last” Known for his tape drawings of outlines and silhouettes on walls and windows, this artist has recently employed photographic imagery in the form of large-scale collage in his work. He currently serves as the curatorial director of the Martha & Robert Fogelman Galleries of Contemporary Art at the University of Memphis. ART COURTESY DIXON GALLERY AND GARDENS
Dixon Gallery and Gardens, 4339 Park Avenue, 761-5250
VanGogh
Rothko
MASTERWORKS FROM THE ALBRIGHT-KNOX ART GALLERY
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to view 76 masterpieces by more than 40 superstars of the art world, including Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, Jackson Pollock, Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, Mark Rothko, and more.
FEBRUARY 21 Benjamin West (1738–1820), Queen Charlotte, ca. 1776, Oil on canvas, 50 x 40¼ inches, The Berger Collection at the Denver Art Museum, TL-19057 THROUGH
4.19
“Hail, Britannia! Six Centuries of British Art” from the Berger Collection On size alone, the Berger Collection is without peer among privately owned collections of British art in America. This exhibit showcases 50 works ranging in date from the fourteenth to the twenty-first centuries and includes portraits, landscapes, sporting subjects, history paintings, and more by such masters as John Constable, Thomas Gainsborough, Angelica Kauffman, George Stubbs, and Joseph Wright of Derby. Dixon Gallery and
JU NE 1, 2015
$10 , FREE for Members and youth ages 18 and under. Reserve tickets online or at guest services (479.418.5700).
CrystalBridges.org BENTONVILLE, ARK ANSAS SPONSORED AT CRYSTAL BRIDGES BY
Art Agency, Partners Harriet and Warren Stephens, Rick and Beverly Chapman Family Stephens Inc. Stout Executive Search
This exhibition was initiated by the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo, New York, and was organized by Albright-Knox Chief Curator Emeritus Douglas Dreishpoon. It is supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities. Vincent van Gogh, La Maison de la Crau, 1888, oil on canvas, 25 1/2 x 21 1/4 in. Collection Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo, NY. Bequest of A. Conger Goodyear, 1966. Photograph by Tom Loonan.
Gardens, 4339 Park Avenue, 761-5250
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 29
FASHION
F
ebruary is the month for love ... and of course for food in this issue of this magazine. As we examine the excellent restaurant scene in Memphis,
we also take a look at fashion that follows the current trend of spring’s hottest color — marsala. Named for a famous fortified wine, this rich shade has inspired clothing that turns up the heat . Our photo shoot's glamorous setting is Gwen Driscoll’s divine art-filled showroom on South Perkins Road — Driscoll Design & Decoration — where we played with romantic looks that are perfect for a Valentine’s evening on the town.
photographer l a r ry kuzniewsk i
#3
fa s h i o n e d i t o r augusta c a mpbell
#3
M A R SA L A ¥μ Missoni dress, $695; multistrand bead necklace, $365; both from Kittie Kyle. Black diamond and white diamond tennis bracelet, $17,545; rose gold Rolex, $38,500; black diamond and white diamond bangle bracelet, $9,075; black diamond and white diamond bangle earrings, $13,925; all from Sissy’s Log Cabin in Laurelwood.
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 31
¥μ Calvin Klein dress, $89.99, from Macy’s Oak Court; art deco diamond and platinum estate earrings, $31,500; estate ruby and diamond ring set in platinum, $17,295; gold bangles, $1,225, $1,265, $1,785; ladies' Rolex with diamond face, $18,200; sapphire and diamond bracelet, $35,805; all from Sissy’s Log Cabin in Laurelwood.
32 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
¥μ Isabel Marant chiffon dress, $598; metallic pump by Stuart Weitzman, $398; Whiting and Davis gold-mesh purse, $115; leather and freshwater pearl necklace, $265; all from Joseph in Laurelwood.
THANK YOU TO LAURENCE WELCH model | LUCY HADSKEY hairstylist Secret Services Salon | CHRISTOPHER PADGETT makeup artist | BOBBI BROWN Macy's Oak Court | SARA HARRISON stylist and production assistant | JOHN UPTON | SUSIE REUTER digital artist | JERRY OBRIEN BAILEY | GWEN DRISCOLL | LINDSEY CAPOOTH | TESS DEVINEY
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 33
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F
TOP 1O
or people who love to eat out (we certainly do!) the words “new restaurant” resonate with one of life’s memorable pleasures: food shared with friends and family, and libations to match spirit and mood. In Memphis, where the food scene this year moved from emerging to full speed ahead, an astonishing number of new restaurants directed the question of where to eat toward more than 30 different choices. Feel like a robust bowl of ramen on a chilly February day? No problem. Looking for a scrumptious Delmonico with asparagus and Parmesan truffle fries? We know where to go. Daydreaming about charcuterie plates and Italian home cooking elevated for modern tastes? Yep, we’ve got that, too. Certainly, the burgeoning list of new restaurants in Memphis owes much to the renaissance of Midtown’s Overton Square and to the continued popularity of Cooper-Young, its more established sister neighborhood. The hub of nighttime entertainment during the 1970s, Overton Square reemerged in 2014 with a parking garage and a unique patina, mingling art, theater, music, and food. In fact, more than half of these restaurant picks, determined by reader and staff favorites, are located in or near Overton Square. But we happily spread our love up and down the Poplar corridor, and to an independently owned treasure in the heart of downtown, shaping a top-10 list of new restaurants that is diverse, trendy, and delicious.
NEW
RESTAURANTS FOR 2015
PRESENTING OUR READERS’ RESTAURANT POLL WINNERS!
by pa mel a denney photographs by justin fox bur k s F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 35
Memphis THE CIT Y MAGAZINE
PRESENTING THE
WINNERS OF OUR MEMPHIS MAGAZINE READERS’ RESTAURANT POLL
NE W top: Fresh guacamole is prepared tableside. below: The spacious interior was once home to T.G.I. Fridays in Overton Square.
N
ormally, people might think a menu as culturally diverse as Babalu’s is a bit strange, offering Mexican, Spanish, and American staples. But customers flocked to Babalu when it opened last June, and they still do. For the most part, the restaurant’s inf luence is South American, embracing the Spanish custom of tapas and plates to share with an equal focus on Mexican cuisine. The menu offers an extensive taco selection, excellent guacamole prepared tableside, and, of course, crafty margaritas. The eclectic culinary variety pops up with garlic shrimp and grits and an addictive Baba burger that’s dressed with roasted Roma tomatoes, caramelized onions, white cheddar cheese,
Way back in July 1983, when we conducted our first readers’ restaurant poll, it only took half a column to report the results. With just 18 categories focusing on the most basic specialties — pizza, steak, seafood — readers probably finished the survey in 10 minutes. The poll, and the city’s dining infrastructure, has certainly expanded in the past three decades. This year’s results present the winning restaurants in more than 40 categories, and judging from the number of entries submitted, it’s obvious that current readers took quite a bit more time to ponder the best places in town, including categories that might have stumped our 1983 subscribers, such as Best Food Truck, Best Craft Cocktails, and Best Local Brew. With online voting and safeguards to prevent multiple entries, this can rightfully be considered our city’s most definitive and accurate dining poll. The winner in each category is listed in bold type, followed by other contenders in the order of votes received. To be declared a winner, that establishment had to receive at least 10 percent of the total votes. We’re happy to report that our readers had clear opinions about their favorites in every category but one; for “Most Happening Happy Hour” there were so many contenders that we listed the top vote-getters. We’re also pleased to welcome back so many establishments here, in a wide range of categories, who didn’t make an appearance in last year’s poll. Congratulations to all our winners and finalists, and thanks to all our readers who voted.
AND THE PRIZE GOES TO… 36 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M
BABALU BRINGS TAPAS, TACOS, AND TABLESIDE GUACAMOLE TO MEMPHIS.
FEBRUARY 2015
applewood-smoked bacon, avocado, and chipotle aioli. The spice seared yellow fin tuna BLC is the standard BLT’s exotic cousin. The seared tuna steak is topped with bacon, arugula, marinated cucumber, and wasabi aioli inside a sourdough bun and toasted. Along with Babalu’s menu, the modern Spanish decor adds a festive touch to Overton Square, and its inviting patio with a great view is packed, with a wait, when the weather is nice. In fact, Babalu ranks as a finalist in this year’s Readers’ Restaurant Poll for Best People Watching, Best Patio Dining, and Hippest Bar Setting, duplicating the restaurant’s original success in Jackson, Mississippi. — Hannah Bailey 2115 MADISON (274-0100) $-$$
BEST PIZZA MEMPHIS PIZZA CAFE ALDO’S PIZZA PIES ROCK ’N DOUGH PIZZA HOG & HOMINY HIGH POINT PIZZA
BEST MEXICAN LAS DELICIAS LAS TORTUGAS MOLLY’S LA CASITA EL MEZCAL GUADALUPANA/EL PORTON (TIE)
BEST ITALIAN
CAPITAL GRILLE SERVES MID-CENTURY AMBIENCE WITH OPULENT DRY-AGED BEEF.
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he throwback elegance of upholstered chairs, martinis prepared tableside, and expert waiters with manners and mini-flashlights almost trumps the exquisite steak tartare at Capital Grille, but not quite. One of several signature preparations at the wellknown national chain, the dish stacks capers, diced onion, hard-boiled egg, and a patty of chopped sirloin, like a f lashback from a mid-century menu well worth rediscovering. Although it’s listed as an appetizer, try tartare as an entrée alongside crispy Parmesan truff le fries and a shaved Brussels sprouts salad tossed with spinach, goat cheese, red onion, Marcona almonds, smoked bacon, and mustard vinaigrette.
Open for almost a year at the Crescent Center in East Memphis, the Capital Grille settled in quickly, offering a busy lounge with its own menu (cheeseburgers, seared tuna, and lollipop chops) and a wine list with more than 350 choices. Already, the restaurant has earned a spot in our Readers’ Restaurant poll with a high finish in the Best Steak category for its dry-aged beef prepared in numerous ways. The scrumptious Delmonico, crusted with porcini rub and finished with aged balsamic, is particularly good, especially when paired with Sam’s mashed potatoes, a medley of roasted mushrooms, and La Crema Pinot Noir from California’s Sonoma coast. — Pamela Denney
ANDREW MICHAEL ITALIAN KITCHEN PETE & SAM’S BARI RISTORANTE CIAO BELLA FRANK GRISANTI’S top: Capital Grille is a new addition to the Crescent Center in East Memphis. below: Steak tartare is one of the restaurant's signature preparations.
BEST CHINESE A-TAN/WANG'S MANDARIN HOUSE (TIE) MULAN FORMOSA ROYAL PANDA ASIAN PALACE
BEST JAPANESE SEKISUI SEKISUI PACIFIC RIM SAKURA OSAKA BLUEFIN
6065 POPLAR (683-9291) $$$-$$$$
FEBRUARY 2015
M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 37
NE W BEST INDIAN INDIA PALACE GOLDEN INDIA BOMBAY HOUSE MAYURI
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SEASONS 52 LAYERS TRENDY INGREDIENTS INTO A SEASONAL AND ACCESSIBLE MENU.
ne thing is certain at Seasons 52, the popular chain from Orlando now located in East Memphis next to the Capital Grille. Visit on a busy weekend without a reservation, and you’ll be circling the piano bar looking for any empty seat. Fortunately, bar entertainment is lively and craft cocktails are fun. Color-coordinate a cucumber basil smash with
BEST VIETNAMESE PHO SAIGON SAIGON LE PHO BINH LOTUS JASMINE
BEST THAI BHAN THAI BANGKOK ALLEY JASMINE PHO SAIGON MOSA ASIAN BISTRO
BEST FOOD TRUCK FUEL CAFE CENTRAL BBQ ROCK ’N DOUGH PIZZA TACOS LOS JAROCHOS FRESH GULF SHRIMP
edamame from the Gengler family, who operate a 1,200acre organic farm in southeast Minnesota. Steamed and accessorized with a finger bowl of Japanese green tea salt, the dish is what Seasons 52 does best: make fashionable food trends approachable for everyone. Consider the menu: Along with organic produce, popular ingredients and flavor combinations pepper the restaurant’s choices. Micro basil, goat cheese, and toasted pistachios turn a plate of warm golden beets into a riotous first course. For entrees, there’s rainbow trout or grilled flat iron steak salad made with Bibb lettuce and an assortment of winter vegetables. A perky cheddar cheese tuile tops the dish, served ceremoniously from a cylinder server to an oversized plate. While menus are updated regularly at Seasons 52, signature dishes stay true. Order flatbread with artisan sausage any time of year (the kids will think it’s pizza) and a decadent flight of desserts layered into shot glasses. — Pamela Denney 6085 POPLAR (682-9952) $$
BEST CAJUN/CREOLE BAYOU BAR & GRILL OWEN BRENNAN’S DEJAVU THE SECOND LINE RESTAURANT IRIS
38 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M
above: The interior offers an intriguing blend of rustic and modern design. left: A flight of desserts is layered into shot glasses.
FEBRUARY 2015
BEST DELI BOGIE’S DELICATESSEN/ELWOOD’S SHACK (TIE) FINO’S YOUNG AVENUE DELI LUCCHESI’S
BEST BURGER HUEY’S BELMONT GRILL ALEX’S TAVERN EARNESTINE & HAZEL’S KOOKY CANUCK
BEST FRIES HUEY’S YOUNG AVENUE DELI HOUSTON’S RIVER OAKS KOOKY CANUCK
SCHWEINEHAUS BLENDS BAVARIAN WITH LOCAL INGREDIENTS AND INVENTIVE SPECIALS.
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raditional German cuisine aficionados can sneer all they want, but let’s face it: With fried Brussels sprouts, burgers, and spatial mac and cheese on the menu, Schweinehaus is much more than Bavarian goodness, thanks to executive chef David Todd’s local Southern flair. Still, Todd honors the restaurant’s slogan “A celebration of pork and bier.” The boisterous beer hall offers classics like the Konigsberger Klopse, German meatballs with a caper cream sauce, and the jägerschnitzel, fried pork cutlets topped with a traditional hunter sauce. But recently Todd has come into his own with inventive late-night and brunch specials — more refined Southern, but with a
slight Bavarian touch — that have people talking. And for good reason. The ham and cheese brunch special features a cheese grit tart shell topped with roasted tomato goat cheese, house-smoked ham, butternut squash, arugula, caramelized onions, and a 147-degree sous vide egg. The food at Schweinehaus reflects the atmosphere: just fun. A late-night PB & J will get you house-made strawberry jam, sunflower seed peanut butter, and Yukon gold potato chips inside toasted slices of brioche from a kitchen that stays open until 1 a.m. weeknights and 2 a.m. on the weekend. — Hannah Bailey
BEST STEAK FOLK’S FOLLY ORIGINAL PRIME STEAKHOUSE RUTH’S CHRIS FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE BUTCHER SHOP THE CAPITAL GRILLE above: Patrons of Schweinehaus enjoy “a celebration of pork and bier.” below: Bavarian touches include brezel and wurst.
BEST SEAFOOD TSUNAMI HALF SHELL BONEFISH GRILL RESTAURANT IRIS FLIGHT/FLYING FISH (TIE)
2110 MADISON (347-3060) $$ FEBRUARY 2015
M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 39
NE W BEST OYSTERS PEARL’S OYSTER HOUSE HALF SHELL THE COVE RESTAURANT IRIS MORTIMER’S
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BEST BBQ SANDWICH CENTRAL BBQ BAR-B-Q SHOP GERMANTOWN COMMISSARY CORKY’S TOP’S BAR-B-Q
top: The menu includes melt-inyour mouth French onion soup, roasted chicken panini, and a Lillet cocktail. below: Kevin Keough presides over this cafe tucked into a former bank lobby.
BEST BBQ RIBS CENTRAL BBQ CHARLES VERGOS’ RENDEZVOUS CORKY’S BAR-B-Q SHOP GERMANTOWN COMMISSARY
alk into Cafe Keough any given day, and the 4,000-square-foot space invokes a sense of peace and tranquility, despite its grandeur. Opened by Kevin Keough early last year, the restaurant is a happy place, nestled inside the Commerce Title building built in 1904 — a former bank. Stately tall ceilings, worn tiled floor, and European flair complement
the menu lettered across giant chalkboards posted on the wall. Order a bowl, not a cup, of the melt-in-your-mouth French onion soup. The roasted chicken panini and the acclaimed-by-many roast beef sandwich made with sweet onion, provolone, arugula, and mushrooms are also favorites. Cafe Keough not only serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it has a tapas menu, too. Add a full bar that pours house Lillet cocktails, local draft beer, and a decent wine selection, and it’s a no-brainer why the cafe’s become a local hot spot for the downtown business and residential crowd. Get past Main Street’s parking issue, and the sprawling space with reliable Wi-Fi is by far the perfect place to set up a laptop, enjoy a latte, and work remotely. — Hannah Bailey 12 S. MAIN ST. (509-2469) $
BEST FRIED CHICKEN GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN JACK PIRTLE’S UNCLE LOU’S THE CUPBOARD FELICIA SUZANNE’S
BEST BRUNCH OWEN BRENNAN’S THE BEAUTY SHOP THE MAJESTIC GRILLE PAULETTE’S HALF SHELL
40 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M
CAFE KEOUGH BUILDS DEDICATED FOLLOWING WITH ITS RELAXED EUROPEAN FLAIR.
FEBRUARY 2015
BEST BREAKFAST BROTHER JUNIPER’S BRYANT’S BREAKFAST BLUE PLATE CAFÉ CAFÉ ECLECTIC THE ARCADE
BEST COFFEEHOUSE CAFÉ ECLECTIC MUDDY’S GRIND HOUSE REPUBLIC COFFEE OTHERLANDS TAMP & TAP
BEST DESSERT MUDDY’S BAKE SHOP CHEESECAKE CORNER LA BAGUETTE JERRY’S SNO-CONES FROST BAKE SHOP
ECCO ON OVERTON PARK ADDS NEIGHBORHOOD FUN TO A MEDITERRANEAN TABLE. NE W
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f God is in the details, then God certainly dines at Sabine Bachmann’s Ecco on Overton Park. Everything has been carefully thought out, from the font on the menu and art on the walls to the pretty wood tables topped with delicate wine glasses and the exquisitely thought-out menu. Bachmann, who also runs Fratelli’s at the Garden, leaves the cooking duties to her son, Armando Gagliano, who proves up to the task. The menu revolves around simple and fresh ingredients, and f lourishes abound. The pretty-as-a-picture cheese plate is embellished with f lowering broccolini. The hearty grain soup is ostensibly
a simple tomato affair, but treasures of squash are hidden within its depths. The orange-glazed pork chop proves to be a revelation and is so huge as to inspire little gasps of awe. Ecco, according to Bachmann, means “Here it is,” another bit of perfection. There is no murmur of diners quietly enjoying their meals. Instead, Ecco is a place filled with happy chatter, for this is a neighborhood restaurant to its core — Bachmann lives in the neighborhood — and it’s nearly guaranteed that you’ll see a friend or two at lunch or dinner. — Susan Ellis
BEST PEOPLE WATCHING PEABODY LOBBY BAR FLYING SAUCER LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM BABALU B.B. KING’S
top: The pretty-as-a-picture cheese plate is embellished with flowering broccolini. above: Sabine Bachmann leaves the cooking duties to her son, Armando Gagliano.
1585 OVERTON PARK (410-8200) $-$$ FEBRUARY 2015
M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 41
TART INVIGORATES COOPER-YOUNG BUNGALOW WITH FRENCH FOOD AND LOCAL ART.
NE W WORTH THE DRIVE CITY GROCERY (OXFORD, MS) BOZO’S (MASON, TN) AJAX DINER (OXFORD, MS) JACK BINION’S STEAKHOUSE (TUNICA, MS) THE BLUE AND WHITE CAFÉ (TUNICA, MS)
top: Co-owner Abby Jestis offers a menu that is both playful and delicious. below: Once a week, the café rolls outs a new macaroon with a fanciful flavor.
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he wrought-iron sunburst on the front door of Tart, open since mid-May, is a harbinger of the French cafe’s sunny disposition. So are the snowflake meringues floating on a pretty pedestal cake plate. Open since mid May, Abby Jestis and Heather Pike bring a hybrid setting for coffee, art, and food to CooperYoung with a guerilla gallery for emerging artists and a French-inspired menu that is playful and delicious. Feeling healthy? Tart serves pears poached in cabernet with spices. Feeling ravenous? Try cassoulet, a chicken casserole slowly cooked with white beans. Feeling French? Sink into salmon rillette tartine, a scrumptious pain de mei
BEST LATE NIGHT DINING (AFTER 10 PM) HUEY’S HOG & HOMINY BARDOG TAVERN BELMONT GRILL KOOKY CANUCK
BEST PATIO DINING BHAN THAI LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM THE SECOND LINE BABALU FELICIA SUZANNE’S
BEST AMBIENCE RESTAURANT IRIS FLIGHT ITTA BENA PAULETTE’S FOLK’S FOLLY
42 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M
FEBRUARY 2015
topped with fig preserves, salmon pate, and red onion relish that is as pretty as Monet’s gardens at Giverny. Open seven days a week until 4 p.m., Tart serves teas, juices, and coffees along with breakfast, brunch, and lunch anchored by exceptional baking. Favorites like croissants and brioche buns sprinkled with pearl sugar headline a patisserie menu that includes bread pudding and loaf breads (sourdough, pecan raisin, and seeded whole wheat) baked fresh every day. Once a week, the café rolls outs a new macaroon with a fanciful flavor. “People are here first thing every Monday morning,” Jestis says. “I can never make enough.” — Pamela Denney 820 S. COOPER (725-0091) $
BEST PLACE TO IMPRESS OUT-OF-TOWNERS RESTAURANT IRIS CHARLES VERGOS’ RENDEZVOUS FOLK’S FOLLY PAULETTE’S HOG & HOMINY
RESTAURANT WE MISS THE MOST ANDERTON’S JUSTINE’S JARRETT’S RONNIE GRISANTI’S/MIDTOWN STEAK AND ALE
BEST CHAIN RESTAURANT
SOUP’S ON AT JIMMY ISHII’S ROBATA RAMEN & YAKITORI BAR.
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ith a menu as extensive as Robata’s, you’ll need a strategy. We suggest gathering your friends, grabbing a table, and flipping straight to the back of the menu for the star of the show: Robata’s ramen bowls. There, you’ll find a dizzying number of options: noodles, broths, toppings. Ask your server to guide you. The vegetarian Yasai bowl is particularly good. Its seaweed and soy broth is savory, and the soup comes with cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and tomatoes. Top it with marinated boiled egg and tofu. Next, we recommend flipping back to the front of the menu, ordering sake for
HOUSTON’S BONEFISH GRILL PANERA BREAD TEXAS DE BRAZIL THE CAPITAL GRILLE
all, and then several appetizers and skewers (yakitori) to share. The deep-fried garlic is a creamy surprise, and there is nothing wrong at all with the asparagus skewers. The onigiri, rice balls with a choice of garnishes including plum and salmon, are good too. Jimmy Ishii, who is credited with introducing sushi to a broader Memphis audience when he opened the first Sekisui some 25 years ago, has achieved something significant with Robata as well: great, authentic Asian food that seems almost old school and, at the same time, completely new. — Susan Ellis
BEST NEW RESTAURANT THE SECOND LINE BABALU LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM THE CAPITAL GRILLE SEASONS 52
BEST RESTAURANT
2116 MADISON (410-8290) $-$$ top: Take your pick: Appetizers and skewers (yakitori) go well with cups of traditional sake.
FEBRUARY 2015
RESTAURANT IRIS PAULETTE’S FLIGHT FOLK’S FOLLY ERLING JENSEN/RIVER OAKS (TIE)
M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 43
NE W HIPPEST BAR SETTING MOLLIE FONTAINE LOUNGE THE COVE PEABODY LOBBY BAR BABALU THE SECOND LINE
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MOST HAPPENING HAPPY HOUR CONTENDERS INCLUDE: BARDOG TAVERN, PEABODY LOBBY BAR, BOSCOS SQUARED, BLUE MONKEY, AND FLYING SAUCER
below: Josh Steiner offers delicious house-made pizzas that are impossible to resist. The carrot cake is a ”lofty beauty.”
BEST PLACE TO WATCH THE GAME FOX AND HOUND SWEET GRASS NEXT DOOR BROOKHAVEN PUB BAYOU BAR AND GRILL ALEX’S TAVERN
hen we think of Josh Steiner and Strano, we mainly think of carrots. Specifically, the terrific roasted carrot soup, a rich delight you’ll be thinking about days (weeks!) later, and the carrot cake, a lofty beauty deserving a spot on all local foodies’ Instagrams. Steiner’s Italian fare is equally good. The crust for the pizzas, not thin nor thick, is excellent. The fried olives stuffed with cheese seem too good to
be true. House-made pastas include the black pasta, with squid ink pasta topped with prawns and the pasta pappardelle alla olive, dressed in olive oil. There’s Grandma’s spinach pie, made from a secret family recipe, and meatballs, another family favorite. Strano also offers a nice brunch with a fine selection of poached eggs Benedict, breakfast pies, pancakes, and donuts. All traces of Ink, the restaurant/bar that preceded Strano at the corner of Cooper and Young, have been wiped away in favor of a space that hits somewhere in between rustic and chic. The restaurant is also popular for family gatherings like the recent watching party for Midtowner Logan Guleff ’s national win on Fox TV’s MasterChef Junior. — Susan Ellis 948 S. COOPER (275-8986) $-$$
BEST DIVE BAR EARNESTINE & HAZEL’S ALEX’S TAVERN THE COVE HIGH POINT PUB SILKY O’SULLIVAN’S
44 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M
STRANO SICILIAN KITCHEN & BAR UPDATES FAVORITES WITH MODERN COOKING.
FEBRUARY 2015
BEST CRAFT COCKTAILS ALCHEMY PEABODY LOBBY BAR SWEET GRASS ANDREW MICHAEL ITALIAN KITCHEN FOLK’S FOLLY
BEST WINE LIST FLIGHT FOLK’S FOLLY LE CHARDONNAY PAULETTE’S RIVER OAKS/ERLING JENSEN (TIE)
BEST BEER SELECTION
THE SECOND LINE MIXES A SPIRITED PUB WITH AUTHENTIC NEW ORLEANS EATS.
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elly English’s Second Line, winner of the Best New Restaurant category, doesn’t seem “new” as much as it does “meant to be,” so seamless is the transition from the fine dining Restaurant Iris to its fun little sister. The menu, though spare, features dishes both familial — the fried oyster salad borrowed from Iris — and playfully affectionate — the Verno, a chicken thigh po’boy named after local radio host Chris Vernon. Here, the pleasures come from the menu’s unfussy-ness: the fine bread for the po’boys (imported from New Orleans’ Leidenheimer); the great horseradish-spiked “hot” potato salad; the over-thetop Andouille and crawfishtopped pimento cheese fries. Diners are best advised to leave their fine silks for another dinner, as the gravy tends to
drip from the roast beef po’boy (an English favorite) and meaty mushrooms are apt to slip out of the hearty Chubby Vegetarian po’boy and onto your lap. A finalist in the Best Cajun/Creole, Best Patio Dining, and Hippest Bar Setting categories as well, The Second Line has been packing them in since day one. On the eve of the restaurant’s opening, English told a reporter, “[The] Second Line is going to be a place that speaks truly to what I would eat every day in New Orleans. We wouldn’t eat crawfish étouffée or stuff like that. What we’re going to serve is indicative of, ‘It’s lunchtime. I’m going to grab a sandwich.’ Or, ‘I’m in a bar, and I’m wasted. I want to eat these things.’” We want to eat these things, too. — Susan Ellis
FLYING SAUCER BOSCOS SQUARED YOUNG AVENUE DELI FOX AND HOUND DAN MCGUINNESS PUB
BEST LOCAL BREW
top: Beat Yo Ass Shrimp is just one of the ”playfully affectionate“ menu items. above: The Second Line is a highlight of a revitalized Overton Square.
GHOST RIVER WISEACRE BOSCOS SQUARED HIGH COTTON MEMPHIS MADE
BEST MEMPHIS CHEFS
2144 MONROE (590-2829), $-$$ FEBRUARY 2015
M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 45
10 BEST MEMPHIS CHEFS KELLY ENGLISH (RESTAURANT IRIS)
JOSE GUTIERREZ (RIVER OAKS)
ANDREW TICER AND MICHAEL HUDMAN (ANDREW MICHAEL ITALIAN KITCHEN/HOG & HOMINY)
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46 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
ANDREAS KISLER (CHEZ PHILIPPE) CHEF PORTRAITS BY JUSTIN FOX BURKS
o his memo t t s a o ry a t
LAFAYETTE DRAPER by darrell uselton and sar ah haizlip
H
ow many people are so popular that they have not just one, but two different clubs in town named after them? Memphians who were fortunate to know Lafayette Leon Draper Jr. remember him as much more than a bartender. His superb level of service, combined with a lifelong philosophy of caring and devotion to others, was unequaled.
Despite his death on September 7, 2014, at the age of 77, his legendary status endures. Lafayette was, quite simply, one of the best-known people in town. Thousands of prominent local citizens and quite a few national celebrities experienced his special bartending skills during a career that spanned more than 50 years. Many of his customers became his personal friends. Lafayette was born in Decatur, Alabama, on March 15, 1937, and moved to Memphis with his parents, Lafayette Sr. and Maxie, in 1945. They were, in his words, “the greatest and most loving individuals anyone could want.” Lafayette inherited his mother’s gentle personality and a tenacious work ethic from his father. He also learned from them to show respect for others and to maintain a positive attitude, which he carried with him throughout his life.
Lafayette’s father worked as a waiter and bartender at The Peabody as well as at other clubs and restaurants in Memphis. He helped his son secure a variety of service jobs in the early years. Lafayette’s mother became president of the Tennessee Black Parent Teacher Association and was honored by Governor Frank Clement. As a black man growing up in Memphis in the 1940s, young Lafayette had no dreams of ever becoming rich or famous, but he was ambitious. He delivered groceries when he was 10 years old and often gave half of his earnings to help support his family. He began his service career as a busboy at the VFW and Elks Clubs and later became a banquet waiter at the King Cotton Hotel. At 16, he worked at the Catholic Club, then the Kings Club, where he recalled country star Charlie Rich once
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 47
clockwise from top left: Lafayette with Cybill Shepherd; with Danny Thomas and Jim Nabors; with Priscilla Presley; and with Governor Ned McWherter.
“If you cannot be friendly and go out of your way to please your customers, then you have no business in the service industry. I cared about everyone I served and truly enjoyed the friendships I made over the years.” — Lafayette Draper
performed. Despite the long hours and low pay, he enjoyed serving customers. After all, some of those jobs offered certain perks: “We dressed in Lou Weinberg suits and Stacy Adams shoes, which made the ladies go crazy.” Lafayette attended Booker T. Washington High School and briefly played football. It was on the playing field that he discovered an inner toughness that matched his gentle demeanor. “My mother made me quit because I was so damn mean,” he remembered. “I would fight the guys who hit me twice because I didn’t take that mess from nobody.” At age 17, Lafayette realized that he “had some growing up to do” so he left school and joined the Navy in 1954. Military life taught him responsibility and how to be a stronger individual. When Lafayette returned to Memphis in 1958, he completed his degree at BTW. After finishing school, Lafayette joined the staff of the Memphis Country Club, where he worked 12 years as head bartender on the evening shift.
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Over the years, he also worked part-time at other downtown clubs, such as the Riverside Grill inside Number One Beale and the King Cotton Café inside the Morgan Keegan Building. The country club, however, gave him the opportunity to work with prominent Memphians, not only at the club but in their homes, when he was hired to work private parties. In 1961, Lafayette married Charlene Chamberlain and together they raised two children, Lafayette III and Deborah Faye (Terrell). According to Lafayette, “Charlene and I raised our kids using the same principles of respect that we learned. We would always talk to them and help them stay out of trouble. They could always confide in us.” In his early work years, Memphis was still segregated. Lafayette quickly learned to “see but don’t see, hear but don’t hear,” a lesson his father taught him well. He struggled not to let negative racial remarks affect his level of service, but he still listened and learned from everything that was said.
clockwise from top left: Lafayette with his son Lafayette Draper III, wife Charlene, and daughter Dorothy; with brother Leonard and Lou Rawls; with Larry Finch; with Tom Garrott, Sen. Bill Frist, and Spence Wilson. below: A menu from the original Lafayette’s Corner on Beale Street.
Lafayette recalled that during the 1950s and ’60s many African-American restaurant and bar workers became upset about the way they were treated. “Back then, a few of the white patrons would be disrespectful and use the N-word and some would holler at you in front of other people and not think a thing about it,” he said. “I told my coworkers to give them the best possible service they could and maybe people would change their attitude.” Lafayette developed a simple but important customer service philosophy: Learn as much as you can about your customer — their name, profession, and what they drank. Then, make sure that they always received a quick refill. Lafayette also knew how to communicate with people in a kind and soft-spoken way. Longtime customers remember that he would often pull up a stool behind the bar and talk with someone if they were feeling down. Lafayette paid attention to every detail. That way, he said, “people remember you and ask for you every time. If you cannot be friendly and go out of your F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 49
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Memphis magazine’s 2016 HOME DESIGN AWARDS will showcase winners in the following categories: NEW HOME | RENOVATION KITCHEN - TRADITIONAL KITCHEN - CONTEMPORARY LIVING ROOM | FAMILY ROOM OR DEN MASTER SUITE | DINING ROOM CHILDREN’S ROOM | BATHROOM OUTDOOR SPACE VACATION HOME | HOME OFFICE
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Lafayette working a private party, often serving drinks he developed himself. way to please your customers, then you have no business in the service industry. I cared about everyone I served and truly enjoyed the friendships I made over the years. You have to put people first.” Customers appreciated the extra service he gave them, and his “kill them with kindness” philosophy soon made him one of the best, and most popular, bartenders in town. He also developed his own specialties. Members of the MCC have fond memories of Lafayette’s “Planters Punch,” made with assorted fruit juices, rum, and gin, and the “Country Club Special,” both popular drinks that remain on the bar menu there today. The “Stump Lifter” was in a class by itself. The libation contained seven different liquors and could, in his words, “knock you on your butt if you weren’t careful.” Lafayette served as a bartender at night and for private parties and events on the weekends, but he also worked full-time at Sears Crosstown from 1961 to 1987. In his spare time, he managed to take business management classes at State Technical Institute at Memphis. Lafayette recalled, “One of the best days of my life was when I became the first black shipping manager at Sears in 1976.” After 25 years at Sears, Lafayette left in 1987 to work for Williams-Sonoma, where he stayed until his retirement in 1997. “I tried hard to provide a good living for my family, but I always tried to spend as much time with them as I could,” he said. “Like with most parents, it is a balance of work and family. You try to do your best.” He became such a Memphis institution that a local landmark was named after him. According to Lafayette, in the early 1970s several MCC members including Charlie Hull, Jimmy Robinson, Ben Woodson, George Saig, and Frank Doggrell asked permission to use his name for a new club they were planning in the Overton Square entertainment district they were developing. As a result, Lafayette’s
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Lafayette with Marsh Gibson in early 2014.
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THE 2014
FACE OF NEUROTOLOGY
Music Room was born. The club showcased rising stars such as Billy Joel, Patti LaBelle, and Barry Manilow as they began their journey toward fame. Lafayette served as host and greeter for the club. Though the club, and most of the original Overton Square, went dark for several years, new life has recently come to the corner of Madison and Cooper, highlighted by the reopening of Lafayette’s Music Room in September 2014. Because of his reputation and popularity, Lafayette’s name was used for another Memphis club during the mid-1980s — Lafayette’s Corner on Beale Street. According to Lafayette, “John Elkington asked me to manage the club, but I served only as the door greeter because of my day job at Sears.” Over the years, Lafayette met and befriended a long list of celebrities: Presidents Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter, and George H.W. Bush, and actors Joan Crawford, Danny Thomas, Jim Nabors, Pricilla Presley, and Charlton Heston. Lafayette recalled, “I kept bartending because of all of the nice people I worked with through the years. I worked for Pat Tigrett’s Memphis-Arkansas Bridge Lighting Party, the Pyramid Grand Opening Party, as well as many parties for the Morgan, Mallory, Avery, Adams, Loeb, Smith, Hopkins, Canale, Hughes, and Crain families, to mention a few. Along the way, I made a lot of great friends.” On August 16, 2014, just three weeks before his death, many of those friends and relatives honored Lafayette with a gathering at The Atrium in Overton Square. Memphis businessman Chip Dudley read a proclamation from Mayor A.C. Wharton and presented him a key to the City of Memphis. A special song prepared for the event described Lafayette as “a man of tact and class, a man you all adore.” Longtime friend Sarah Haizlip and local writer Darrell Uselton are writing a biography of Lafayette Draper, which will be published next month. For additional information, please email Darrell at duselton1@gmail.com.
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THE BUTCHER, THE BAKER, AND THE COFFEE MAKER With Porcellino’s, Memphis Chefs Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman create an audacious mix of culinary accomplishments.
by pamela denney | photographs by justin fox burks
M
orning customers to Porcellino’s in East Memphis might be tempted to grab a stool at the bar, anchored by a vintage Italian espresso machine at one end and a domed cake plate with chocolate croissants at the other. But here’s another suggestion: Head for the center of the restaurant, settle into a bistro table, and watch how pastry chef Kayla Palmer spends her day. Working behind a framed picture window, Palmer is precise and rhythmic, a percussionist playing dough. She rolls, folds, taps, and trims, and then flips the dough over, repeating her refrain. Nearby, assistant Nichole Spears makes cinnamon rolls, and when Palmer leans in to talk, the bakers look seductive and domestic, like a famed Vermeer painting from the Dutch Golden Age. Little wonder customers of all ages like to stop and watch. “I had this one child tapping on the window to get my attention, which is exactly what we hoped would happen,” says Palmer. “We want customers to see beyond the walls, to be part of what we are doing.”
A spirited transparency informs the people and processes at Porcellino’s Craft Butcher, the latest culinary undertaking on Brookhaven Circle from Memphis chefs Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman. Open since late December, Porcellino’s is a hybrid of sorts with a full-service butcher, a casual restaurant for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a bar for coffee, beer, and cocktails, and a grab-and-go for housemade specialties like gelato, soup stocks, Maw Maw’s gravy, and slice-and-bake cookies, either oatmeal or chocolate chip. Although building renovations to this former residence
54 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
started last summer, the dream of a custom butcher shop selling charcuterie and responsibly farmed meat started six years ago, soon after the opening of Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen, Ticer and Hudman’s flagship restaurant located across the street. “I’m most excited to bring back the community butcher,” Hudman says. “I think the conversation that’s going on about food at restaurants really begins at home, and Andy and I have wanted to be part of that conversation in Memphis for a long time. This butcher shop helps us do that.” Head butcher Aaron Winters agrees with the contagious enthusiasm of a college drum major. “We want the butcher shop to be the heart of the neighborhood,” he says. “We want to know our customers by name.” While Porcellino’s, an Italian word meaning little pig, sells standard cuts of meat and poultry, butchers also
top: Aaron Winters, Kayla Palmer, and Destinee Naccarato add to the esprit de corps at Porcellino’s Craft Butcher.
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“We want to know our customers by name,” says head butcher Aaron Winters, whose house-made sausages, custom cuts, and assorted charcuterie fill the case at Porcellino’s.
sell atypical cuts not common in American supermarkets, like heavily marbled spider steak and pork eye of round, described by Winters as “absolutely delicious.” Customers also can custom-order cuts from 400-pound quarters of beef dry-aged in Porcellino’s impressive walk-in coolers. Porcellino’s charcuterie also is made inhouse, using side-by-side curing rooms controlled for temperature and humidity. The selection is a little dizzying: bacon, city ham, Tasso ham, duck prosciutto, cappicola, pancetta cotto, or lean pork belly, and pancetta tesa, a pork salami rinsed with white wine after curing. House-made sausages fill the case, as well, including sweet Italian, Boudin blanc, roasted green chili, and “fun stuff,” like Bari, a pork and lamb sausage flavored with tomato paste,
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Apple cider with a house-made marshmallow Pecorino cheese, and fresh herbs that reminds Winters of the countryside in Tuscany. “Once you know the basics of making sausage, it’s all about flavor memories,” says Winters, who first learned meat preservation as a youngster from his grandfather, an apprentice butcher in Cleveland during the Great Depression. This summer, the former head chef of Hog & Hominy, Ticer and Hudman’s second restaurant, apprenticed in Panzano, Italy, with world-renowned butcher Dario Cecchini and salumeria Filippo Gambassi, where he studied not only butchery but the respectful relationships between people and the animals they eat. “Happy animals produce better tasting meat,” Winters says. “They really do.” A circuitous path led Winters from military service to Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen, where he shed a lucrative career in retail electronics for an entry-level cooking job. He credits his opportunities to Ticer and Hudman’s tutelage and to the esprit de corps that is the heartbeat of the chefs’ three Memphis restaurants. Ticer, who is expecting his second child with wife Karie Ticer in late February, says relationships are the keystone to continued success. “Mike and I can’t just take off and
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spend a few months in Italy anymore, but Aaron can,” he says. “That is why all of this works: We are building teams, and the teams are taking ownership of their responsibilities and their crafts.” Close relationships at Porcellino’s extend from staff to farmers. Beef, pork, and lamb are locally sourced from Newman Farm in Myrtle, Missouri; Claybrook Farms in Covington, Tennessee; and Double H Farms in Nashville. Heritage breeds extend to poultry, as well, such as Spanish Black turkeys, an heirloom breed favored by early American colonists. Porcellino’s ties with the late Mark Newman and his family members, who continue to raise the farm’s signature Berkshire pork, are particularly intimate. Ticer lauds Newman and his wife, Rita, for the restaurant’s deep connection to food, family, and farm-to-table. “We always say Mark and Rita are our food
parents,” Ticer says. “They were with us from day one, and taught us so much about how life on a farm works and how to really appreciate where our food comes from.” Already, over-sized Newman Farm ribs, crisscrossed in a pretty white bowl like a miniature jungle gym, are the most popular plate on the menu, encrusted with peanuts, puffed rice, sesame seeds, and fried garlic. Other small plates also blend flavor and fun, taking prosaic vegetables in creative new directions. Consider braised cabbage, for instance. Porcellino’s chargrills it and then brightens it back up with pickled mustard seeds, kimchi vinaigrette, and small squares of crispy pork belly. Think beets sound boring? Then try them as a dessert salad with tangerines, gorgonzola, and pistachio relish in a sweet crimson pool of cranberry vinaigrette. Drinks also figure prominently at Porcellino’s from morning to night, starting with Ticer and Hudman’s dream coffee menu from head barista Destinee Naccarato. Cicerone and manager Rebecca McQuary, who developed Porcellino’s craft beer list (two dozen in bottles and cans and draft from local brewery Wiseacre) are particularly excited about iced coffee infused with liquid nitrogen. “For most people, the nitrogen makes the coffee taste like Guinness,” McQuary explains. Cocktails at Porcellino’s, confidently updated from original recipes, show similar elan.
Still, some of the drinks, like the daiquiri and the Vesper, don’t have the best reputations, perceptions Porcellino’s intends to change. “The daiquiri has been sort of bastardized,” says beverage director Nick Talarico. “Once we went back to original recipes from places like the Havana Club, we found daiquiris that were less sweet and more acidic. Suddenly, they got a lot more interesting.” The Vesper, the infamous martini invented by author Ian Fleming for James Bond, underwent a similar transformation, substituting cocchi Americano, a more crisp and herbaceous Italian aperitif, for Fleming’s French Lillet. Talarico also reduced the amounts of gin and vodka called for in Casino Royale. “Unless you are James Bond, you probably can’t drink Fleming’s Vesper and survive,” Talarico says. “So we made ours a little smaller.” Porcellino’s attention to details extends from its drink and food menus to the restau-
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“We are building teams and the teams are taking ownership of their responsibilities and their crafts.” — Andrew Ticer rant’s space from Memphis-based Fleming Architects and Sarah Spinosa, a local designer. Paintings of grazing Red Poll cattle by Memphis artist Adam Geary accentuate sagegreen walls, and reclaimed bleachers from St. Louis Catholic School, where Hudman attended grade school, shape countertops for the restaurant’s bar and window seating. “We cleaned the bleachers with mineral spirits, but left the original varnish,” says Daniel O’Grady of Memphis Crafted Classics. “We liked the feel and the look of the patina.” O’Grady’s craftsmanship extends to Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen, where his bleached white oak bar is part of the restaurant’s major renovation, scheduled to be completed by Valentine’s Day. Along with the expanded bar and cocktail lounge, the restaurant’s new amenities include cathedral ceilings, a private dining room, and an outdoor fire pit built of stone. The restaurant’s notoriously cramped kitchen also is doubling in size. “I wish I could have every new employee work in the old kitchen, just so they will really appreciate the new one,” Ticer says. “I can hardly wait.”
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SHAKE IT UP Demystifying the craft of artisanal cocktails.
With the right recipes and a wide selection of the proper ingredients, it’s easy to return to the old “speakeasy” days of cocktails that blend the finest flavors with modern techniques.
by hannah bailey | photographs by justin fox burks
O
ver the past 15 years, the artistry and craft of mixing drinks has re-emerged. Bartenders began turning away from vodka, which lends a drink very little flavor, and switched to gin, brandy, and rye whiskey. This trend was embraced by patrons who enjoyed reinvented classics made with the finest spirits, quality ingredients, and modern techniques. As a home cocktail enthusiast, I’m no expert, but absorbing this culinary approach to classic mixology is just plain fun and great for entertaining. Plus, it’s easy. As Julia Child once said, “The only real stumbling block is fear of failure. In cooking, you’ve got to have a what-thehell attitude.” The same goes with making an excellent cocktail at home. I’ll explain how, but first, a little history. The first true cocktails were purely an American phenomenon that evolved between the Revolutionary War and Prohibition. Offended by the notion of “debasing a spirit,” Europeans preferred simple aperitifs, thought to aid digestion, and enjoyed before or after a meal. Aperitifs, like Campari, are light and refreshing, served in small portions, and often contain botanicals and bitter ingredients. In America, most available
alcohol was distilled. Bartenders in the eighteenth century learned to make cordials, vermouths, and bitters, mixing local wine, brandies, and spirits with herbs and spices. Many libations enjoyed today date back to these early caged-bar experiments (yes, there were actual cages around many bars that keepers locked at the end of the day). The Manhattan, Sazerac, Martini, and Mint Julep are the most quintessential American libations to originate pre-Prohibition. It did not take long for our young country’s unique cultural product to grab the world’s attention. During Prohibition, wealthy Americans traveled overseas — to the Caribbean Islands (namely Cuba), and in Europe to London, Paris, and Milan — where alcohol flowed in abundance. American bartenders migrated too, in need of work and eager to
60 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
demonstrate their craft. As a result, new cocktails emerged in America and overseas with old-world flavors. One of my favorites, the Sidecar, emerged out of Paris in the 1920s. Historical accounts (although much historical documentation of cocktails varies widely) credit its origins to the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Paris, invented by the head bartender, American ex-pat Frank Meyer. It is a rich blend of cognac and citrus, with lemon juice and Cointreau. However, I prefer a variation of the drink using Calvados, a French apple brandy. It’s great in cold weather, and with notes of apple and cinnamon, the drink is warm and soothing.
Calvados Sidecar Lemon wedge 4 Tbsp. sugar with 1/2 Tsp. cinnamon, for rim 1 oz. quality Calvados (such as Daron Fine Calvados) 1 oz. Cointreau 1 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 orange twist, for garnish
❱ ❱ ❱ Run the lemon wedge around the
rim of a coup glass and carefully dip in the cinnamon sugar. Place glass in the freezer to harden. Pour the Calvados, Cointreau, and juice into a mixing glass. Add large ice cubes and shake vigorously. Strain into the sugar-rimmed glass and garnish with an orange twist.
Culinary trend moves from food to drinks.
W
ith the Industrial Revolution, people consumed more processed food and drinks. As a result, the craft of artisanal cocktails was lost for almost a century. Tiki drinks gained popularity and towards the 1980s, cocktail trends catered to the sweeter palate. When farm-to-table pioneers, like Chef Alice Waters of Chez Panisse, and the sustainable food and modernist movements took cooking to a new level, passionate bartenders began to do the same with cocktails. They moved away from cliched martinis and turned to the classics, applying traditional techniques to drink-making with a culinary approach. Making homemade bitters, syrups, and infused spirits may sound daunting, but it’s easier than you would think. A little knowledge, a trip to
The classic ginbased Aviation, and its alluring opalescent glow, is reappearing in the cocktail industry, thanks to the recent availablility of Creme de Violette, a once obscure ingredient.
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Simple syrup ❱ ❱ ❱ Heat 1 part sugar to one part water in a pot on the stove. Remove from heat right before boiling, when the sugar has completely dissolved. Add an ounce of vodka to extend its shelf life.
Rosemary syrup ❱ ❱ ❱ Add 4 sprigs of rosemary to simple syrup in a pot over medium heat. Simmer for 10 minutes, then let cool. Refrigerate overnight, then strain into a bottle. Muddling releases oils and flavors of herbs and produce. Like the Mint Julep, the Whiskey Smash is an old American cocktail that requires muddling mint and sometimes berries. The Ginger Smash, from the New York City restaurant and bar Employees Only, is a play on the traditional, and a refreshing one. I use less sugar (they use 1-½ teaspoon), add homemade rosemary syrup, and substitute Berentzen Apfelkorn apple liqueur for Calvados, which I keep on hand more often.
Ginger Smash 2 thin slices fresh ginger root 10 fresh whole cranberries 1 Tsp. sugar 1 1/2 oz. Plymouth Gin 1 1/2 oz. Calvados 1/2 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice 1/2 oz. rosemary syrup (see recipe) rosemary sprig to garnish
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❱ ❱ ❱ Muddle the ginger, cranberries, and sugar in the bottom of a mixing glass. Pour in gin, Calvados, rosemary syrup, and juice. Add enough ice to fill a rocks glass. Cover, shake, and pour unstrained into a rocks glass. Inaccessible 10 years ago, quality Creme de Violette, liqueur flavored with violet flower, is now readily available. Use it in the old-school gin, Aviation. It packs a light and crisp blend of juniper and citrus — on the dry side — and is a stunningly beautiful cocktail. The Creme de Violette lends an opalescent blue color, so mark my words: This is the only blue cocktail you should ever drink.
Aviation 2 oz. quality gin 1 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice 5 ml. maraschino liqueur, such as Luxardo 5 ml. Creme de Violette 62 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
is now
EVERY ISSUE WE’LL BE COVERING WHAT YOU NEED
TO KNOW ABOUT DOING BUSINESS IN MEMPHIS. We’ll cover in-depth the industries and the people that make up our business community. We’ll tell you how to recruit and maintain talent. We’ll continue your favorite features and columns and we’re adding some new sections we think you’ll enjoy...
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â?ą â?ą â?ą Pour the gin, juice, liqueur, and Creme de Violette in a mixing glass. Add large ice cubes and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled coup or martini glass. Add 1 dash of Angostura bitters (optional).
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BOURBON: Peaches and mint with simple syrup served
over crushed ice. Optional: peach bitters. GIN: Cucumber and thyme with lemon juice, shaken
and served over ice with tonic. Optional: splash of St. Germain (elderflower liqueur). RUM: Strawberry and mint with lime juice and simple syrup, served over ice and topped with soda or sparkling wine. Optional: splash of Velvet Falernum (sweet spiced alcoholic syrup used in tropical drinks). TEQUILA: Watermelon and basil with lime juice, shaken and poured into a cocktail glass. Optional: splash of Cointreau. VODKA: Tomato and cilantro with lime juice, shaken and poured into a cocktail glass. Optional: dash of celery bitters. Every budding bartender needs to learn basic techniques and have the right tools. In lieu of a three-piece martini shaker, try the Boston shaker â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a 16-ounce mixing glass and a 28-ounce tin shaker. For more eďŹ&#x192;cient mixing, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what the pros use. Other tools to have on hand are a hawthorne strainer, bar spoon, muddler, jigger, paring knife, citrus zester, and a sieve. Drinks also deserve the proper glassware. Keep these three basics around: Cocktail glasses (called a coup and resembles a rounded martini glass); rocks glasses (a short tumbler), and collins glasses (a narrow cylindrical tumbler). The â&#x20AC;&#x153;speakeasyâ&#x20AC;? days may be long behind us, but the bar traditions they sparked remain timeless.
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A by shara clark Whether you’ve got excellent visual acuity or you’re already having vision issues, it’s a good idea to adjust your daily meal plans to include foods that maximize eye function. Aaron Harris, practice manager and certified nutrition specialist at the Memphis Eye Clinic, says many people do not realize how important a role diet plays in common degenerative eye problems and diseases. “Given all the diabetes we see, we are huge proponents of disease prevention and nutritional education,” Harris says. “Even if you’re not a diabetic and just have poor nutrition — if you’re deficient in vitamins and minerals and eating the standard American diet — you can manifest problems in the eye.” Among these problems is the development of cataracts — a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision. A tell-tale sign of the onset of cataracts is glare, especially from oncoming headlights when you’re driving at night. “It’d be no different than if your glasses got fogged up, and you got glare that way,” says Harris, “except it’s happening to the natural lens of the eye.” Most cataracts are related to aging, and statistics from the National Eye Institute show that by age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. Preliminary research suggests that a preventative dietary regimen may prove helpful in delaying the onset and decreasing the severity of cataracts. Another typically age-related vision problem is macular degeneration (MD) — a loss of vision in the center of the visual field due to damage to the retina. “Big portions of your center vision will be blacked out,” Harris says. “So you can have somebody in front of you, and where their nose is, it’s just a big dark spot.” People over 50 are at increased risk for MD, which has been linked with poor nutrient absorption, hereditary factors, hypertension, and smoking. Glaucoma is a condition that damages the eye’s optic nerve and can result in painless vision loss and blindness. “With glaucoma, a person would generally start losing vision in their periphery,” says Harris. “So you can see right in front of you, but vision around the edges is going dark.” For most eye problems, you can often
s we age, declining eyesight can be inevitable: blurred vision, dry eye, and bothersome glare from oncoming headlights while driving at night are just a few of the common age-related vision problems people encounter. In some cases, degenerative eye conditions are worsened by poor overall health, especially for those with mismanaged diabetes. But the good news is that some eye problems can be prevented or even reversed through dietary changes and proper nutrition.
protect yourself with early detection and treatment from an ophthalmologist. And starting now, you can arm yourself with a dietary plan that works to aid and improve the intricate functions of your eyes.
What to eat and why: Green, leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, collard greens, and broccoli are packed with lutein and zeaxanthin — carotenoids that act as antioxidants in the eye, helping protect and maintain healthy cells and lower the risk of developing macular degeneration and cataracts. “We prefer that people eat them raw,” Harris says. “Steaming is okay, but often when you cook your vegetables — by throwing them in a skillet with olive oil, for example — that can damage a lot of the good stuff that’s in there.” Orange-colored vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and orange bell peppers also provide lutein. “Orange food contains lutein, which is the main pigment that exists naturally in the retina,” Harris says. “If you supplement your diet with lutein, you’re going to have improved retina health.” Orange veggies are also a great source of beta-carotene, a type of vitamin A that helps the retina and other parts of the eye work smoothly. Berries are good for their polyphenols and mineral content, and they are powerful
at combating free radicals due to their antioxidant properties. “In general, it’s the increased oxidation of cells that determines how quickly a disease state is going to progress, even cancer,” says Harris. “Antioxidants protect cells and prevent free radical damage.” Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to eye health and can be acquired through the consumption of wild-caught cold-water fish, avocados, raw nuts, grass-fed beef, and oils, such as olive oil, fish oil, macadamia nut oil, and coconut oil. “The tears your eye produces and the thin tear film that covers your eye is made up of a lot of fatty acids,” Harris says. “We recommend increased omega-3 intake because it helps lubricate the eyes.” Citrus, including grapefruit, lemon, lime, and orange, offers antioxidant effects due to its vitamin C levels. But Harris warns to be aware of the high sugar content in some fruits, especially in fruit juices that are not homemade. If your blood sugar levels are higher than they should be, your risk for a variety of health problems increases. Even if you are taking medications for eye conditions or other health problems, like diabetes, without proper nutrition a disease state will still progress. Increasing intake of the foods mentioned above and other essential vitamins and minerals is key to good health. “This goes above and beyond eye health,” Harris says. “When we incorporate these nutrients into our diet, we experience improvements throughout our whole body, not just our eyes.” It’s best to see your optometrist at the onset of any abnormalities in your vision. You may need glasses, but symptoms could be the result of a more serious problem, in which case a visit to an ophthalmologist is necessary. Once you hit 40, seeing an ophthalmologist once every year or two is recommended for cataract detection, and people over 50 should visit their ophthalmologist annually to check for other age-related eye-health problems, like macular degeneration and glaucoma. Diabetics should see an ophthalmologist annually, regardless of age, to check for these conditions, as well as diabetic retinopathy. • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 67
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by shara clark
Better eye health through better eating.
healthy diet is important — not just for dropping extra pounds, but for our overall well-being. This month, we’re looking at eye health and the various foods that can prove helpful in preventing or even reversing common vision problems. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, and lutein (found in leafy greens and orange-colored vegetables and fruits) is a good place to start. To add to our healthy meal repertoires, our local Whole Foods has shared two step-bystep recipes, both of which include ingredients essential to maintaining eye health. Be well and bon appetit!
Spicy Seaweed Salad with Brown Rice and Salmon Sunny Citrus Smoothie This smoothie is loaded with great citrus flavor and is wonderfully versatile. Although we love the standout flavor of grapefruit, you can substitute other citrus fruit depending on what’s in season: try lime, tangerine, tangelo, or blood orange.
This flavorful meal features some of our favorite wholesome ingredients: seaweed, salmon, and whole grain brown rice. INGREDIENTS: 1 CUP BROWN RICE 1 1/2 OUNCE MIXED DRIED SEAWEED (SUCH AS WAKAME, ARAME, OR DULSE) 3 TABLESPOONS
INGREDIENTS: 1 ORANGE 1 LEMON 1 RED GRAPEFRUIT
2 TABLESPOONS HONEY OR AGAVE SYRUP 1/2 CUP ICE CUBES
3/4 CUP NONFAT PLAIN GREEK YOGURT
DIRECTIONS:
Remove zest from orange and lemon; set aside. Cut a slice off from the top and bottom of the orange, lemon, and grapefruit. One at a time, place them on a cutting board and remove all the peel and white pith with a knife, exposing the flesh. Chop the fruits and remove any seeds. Place the fruits into a blender and add half the orange and lemon zest and the remaining ingredients. Blend until smooth and pour into two glasses; sprinkle with the remaining zest. Serves 2. Per Serving: 160 calories (5 from fat), 0g total fat, 0g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 35mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (6g dietary fiber, 24g sugar), 10g protein
68 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
UNSEASONED RICE
2 TABLESPOONS LOWSODIUM SOY SAUCE 1 1/2 TABLESPOON AGAVE NECTAR 2 TEASPOONS TOASTED SESAME OIL 1 1/2 TEASPOON CHILIGARLIC PASTE
1 BUNCH GREEN ONIONS, THINLY SLICED 2 TEASPOONS EXPELLERPRESSED CANOLA OIL 4 (6-OUNCE) PIECES SALMON FILLET 1/8 TEASPOON FINE SEA SALT
VINEGAR DIRECTIONS:
Put rice and 2 cups of water in a small pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover pot, and simmer until liquid is completely absorbed and rice is just tender, about 40 minutes. Set covered pot aside off the heat for 10 minutes, then uncover and fluff rice with a fork. Meanwhile, place seaweed in a large bowl and fill the bowl with cold water. Soak until the seaweed is tender, 10 to 15 minutes, depending on varieties. Drain well, pressing down on the seaweed to remove excess liquid. Pat dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, soy sauce, agave, sesame oil and chili-garlic paste. Add seaweed and toss well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend. Sprinkle with green onions. Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle salmon with salt and cook, turning once, until browned and just barely pink in center, about 8 minutes. Serve with rice and seaweed salad. Serves 4 to 6. Per Serving: 420 calories (110 from fat), 13g total fat, 2.5g saturated fat, 60mg cholesterol, 750mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (5g dietary fiber, 6g sugar), 35g protein Note from Whole Foods: We’ve provided special diet and nutritional information for educational purposes. But remember — we’re cooks, not doctors! You should follow the advice of your healthcare provider. And since product formulations change, check product labels for the most recent ingredient information.
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H E A L T H
HEALTH AND FITNESS EVENT CALENDAR
HEALTHY HAPPENINGS compiled by shara clark n Memphis and the surrounding area, sports, races, educational classes, and more are happening throughout the year to help keep us active, fit, and healthy. Here, we’ve included a selection of upcoming and ongoing sports and wellness activities for people of all ages, so you can run, play, walk, bike, or cook your way to better health and stay in tip-top shape.
I Upcoming events Mike Cody 4-Mile Classic February 7th, 9 a.m. Rhodes College Memphis, TN racesonline.com/events/mike-cody4-mile-classic Benefiting the Rhodes College cross country/track & field teams. The 4-mile road race runs through and around the Rhodes College campus. Bartlett Parks & Recreation Valentine’s Day 10K & 5K Run/Walk February 14th, 9 a.m. 3465 Kirby Whitten Road Bartlett, TN valentinesdayrun.racesonline.com Compete individually or in the Couples Sweetheart Division. Refreshments and awards ceremony will be held in the Bartlett Baptist Church auditorium. The run also features great food, door prizes, and more. Memphis Mile February 15th, 8 a.m. Memphis Jewish Community Center 6560 Poplar Avenue Memphis, TN 901-761-0810 jccmemphis.org/events One-mile swim for time for master swimmers, fitness swimmers, age group swimmers, and triathletes. Heats every
70 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
45 minutes. Entry fee is $18 for MJCC members and $20 for non-members. Nanette Quinn Gobbler 5K February 28th, 9 a.m. St. Mary’s Episcopal School 60 Perkins Extended Memphis, TN gobbler5k.racesonline.com Benefiting the Nanette Quinn Memorial Scholarship Fund that helps young women attend St. Mary’s. The course starts at the school, winds through the surrounding neighborhoods, and ends back at the school. Chucalissa Relic Run 5K March 7th, 9 a.m. C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa 1987 Indian Village Drive Memphis, TN 901-785-3160 racesonline.com/events/chucalissarelic-run-5k Benefiting the youth programming at the C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa. Starting and finishing at the museum, the run/walk course winds through the scenic woods of Chucalissa and T.O. Fuller State Park. Move It Memphis 5K/10K March 7th, 10 a.m. FedExForum 191 Beale St. Memphis, TN moveitmemphis.racesonline.com
The race starts and finishes at the FedExForum on Beale Street. Live music, vendors, awards, and more on race day. All proceeds benefit the Greater Memphis Chamber. Junior League of Little Rock Downtown Dash March 14th, 8 a.m. 401 Scott Street Little Rock, AR jllr.org/downtowndash The Downtown Dash 5K/10K supports the Junior League of Little Rock, an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Germantown Half-Marathon & Mayor’s Cup 5K March 15th, 7:30 a.m. Germantown Athletic Club 1801 Exeter Germantown, TN germantownhalfmarathon.com The half-marathon course takes you through the rolling hills of Germantown. The start line, finish line, and all other race-related activities will take place at the Germantown Athletic Club. Race for the Summit 4-Mile Run/Walk March 21st, 9 a.m. University of Tennessee College of Pharmacy 881 Madison Avenue
D RY E Y E R E L I E F
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9 0 1
H E A L T H Memphis Magazine’s
THE 2014
FACE OF
REPRODUCTIVE
MEDICINE
Help for Hope 5K March 27th, 6:30 p.m. Hope House 23 South Idlewild Street Memphis, TN racesonline.com/events/help-forhope-5k Benefiting the children and families of Hope House, Tennessee’s only preschool and social service agency working for families impacted by HIV and poverty.
Amelia Purser Bailey, M.D. William H. Kutteh, M.D., Ph.D. Paul R. Brezina, M.D. Raymond W. Ke, M.D.
CREATING FAMILIES TOGETHER Fertility Associates of Memphis is a state-of-the-art practice providing comprehensive reproductive health care to couples of the Mid-South and beyond…treating patients struggling with infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss and reproductive disorders. Our highly specialized team utilizes cutting edge techniques including in vitro fertilization with laser blastocyst biopsy, preimplantation genetic diagnosis and fertility preservation. Our compassionate physicians, board-certified in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, have been bringing dreams to life for over 25 years.
(901)747-BABY (2229) fertilitymemphis.com Serving Baptist and Methodist Hospitals and most major insurance plans.
Viking Half Marathon and 5K March 28th, 8 a.m. Greenwood, MS vikinghalfmarathon.com Located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, the Viking Half Marathon and 5K promises Southern charm, fast times, and a great race experience. The races will begin and end in the historic Cotton Row district and will take you through the flat, tree-lined streets of Greenwood. Racers and spectators will pass by many site locations used in the filming of The Help. The Glo Run March 28th, 7:30 p.m. Shelby Farms 500 North Pine Lake Drive Memphis, TN theglorun.com/memphis The Glo Run is the energy that sparked the night run revolution. This is a 5K course on funroids with stimulating areas along the course. Run a nighttime 5K through a dream world full of glowing wonders and music.
Ongoing Sports & Fitness events Big and Lil Yoga First Tuesday of each month, 9:15 a.m. Whole Foods 5014 Poplar Avenue Memphis, TN Need a healthy activity for you and your little one? Each first Tuesday, the Cafe Area will turn into a family-friendly yoga studio. A certified yoga teacher will teach a gentle, kid-friendly class. A healthy snack will also be provided. Limited to 15 persons per class. Free, pre-registration required. Email leila. marten@wholefoods.com.
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At Regional One Health, your well-being means everything to us. It’s our mission to improve it anyway we can. Our team of healthcare professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care along with remarkable, new services. It’s not just our job to advance the quality of life in our communities. It’s what we love to do.
RegionalOneHealth.org
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H E A L T H
RESULTS YOU CAN SEE. I N B A L A N C E F I T N E S S .C O M
MIDTOWN PERSONAL TRAINING STUDIO
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Cycling Memphis Hightailers Bicycle Club offers weekly bicycle rides and social events for all ages and skill levels. Many rides do not require membership. Fee: $25 per year for individuals and $40 per year for households. memphishightailers. com Mid-South Trails Association offers a calendar of racing and mountain-biking events, and detailed maps of Memphis Area Trails. Members receive discounts at many area bicycle shops and work to promote off-road cycling. Fee: $25 per year for individuals and $35 per year for households. midsouthtrails.com Pay-What-You-Can Yoga at the Cotton Museum Tuesdays, 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. 65 Union Avenue Memphis, TN 901-531-7826 memphiscottonmuseum.org Soccer Greater Memphis Soccer Association offers men’s, women’s, and co-ed leagues for Fall, Spring, Summer, and Indoor, age 16 and up. Fee: $103-133 per season for individuals. memphissoccer. com or email: info@memphissoccer. com
MOSCOT has been handcrafting iconic eyewear for visionistas at the forefront of New York fashion, creativity, and innovation since 1915. Now these vintage-style, affordable frames are available in Memphis, exclusively at Eclectic Eye, where we’re bringing a little bit of Manhattan closer to you.
Ask our Eyewear Architects about MOSCOT eyewear.
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midtown massage & bodywork
Softball Memphis Division of Parks and Neighborhoods (MDPN) offers leagues for Spring and Fall, ages 18 and up. Register in March or August. Seasons run AprilAugust and September-October. Entry fee: $500 per team for Spring, and $350 per team for Fall. Bartlett Parks and Recreation Department (BPRD) offers men’s, women’s, and co-ed leagues for Spring and Fall. Register in February and July. Entry fee: $500 per team. Germantown Parks and Recreation Department (GPRD) offers men and coed leagues for ages 18 and up. Register in February. Season runs SeptemberNovember. Entry fee: $460 per team and $11 per non-resident player.
the place to go for massage
you NEED them to KNEAD you! Therapeutic Massage | Myofascial Release | Thai | Ashiatsu
901.596.3838 | midtown-massage.com | info@midtown-massage.com Purchase GIFT CERTIFICATES and SCHEDULE online. 74 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
Sunrise Yoga Wednesdays, 6:15-7:15 a.m. Free for members, $5 nonmembers The Dixon Gallery & Gardens 4339 Park Avenue Memphis, TN 901-761-5250 dixon.org
Memphis Magazine’s
THE 2014
FACE OF
RETINA CARE
Left to right: Steve Charles, M.D. Jorge Calzada, M.D. & Mohammad Rafieetary, O.D.
6401 Poplar Ave., Suite 190 Memphis, TN 38119 901.767.4499
Founded in 1984, The Charles Retina Institute, is proud to serve the citizens of Memphis and the MidSouth with adult and pediatric Vitreoretinal medical and surgical consultations daily. We specialize in the treatment of retinal detachments, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinopathy of prematurity, macular surgery as well as other retinal and vitreous problems. Our physicians are innovators, true leaders and educators on Vitreoretinal surgery. Dr. Charles is a Mechanical and Electrical Engineer and developed the majority of technology and techniques used by Vitreoretinal Surgeons worldwide. Our textbook, Vitreous Microsurgery, currently in its 5th edition, has been translated into six languages and has been a leading source of retina surgery education worldwide since Dr. Charles’ first edition in 1981. We are committed to providing the best level of retina care available and to have the top medical retina technology for our patients. We are available for medical and surgical consults and second opinions.
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H E A L T H
ELIZABETH H. LEE, DDS 5180 Park Ave., Suite 280 Memphis, TN 38119 • 901.763.1600 www.elizabethleedds.com
Dr. Lee is a dentist in East Memphis. She and her team are friendly, caring, experienced, and ready to give you the smile you’ve always wanted. They keep up with new innovations in dentistry to be certain the best service is offered to every guest. Dr. Lee is the first female president of the Memphis Dental Society. She is licensed to give conscious sedation dentistry to ensure her guest’s comfort. She is also certified to do Six Month Smiles which is short term braces for adults. She has studied extensively at the Dawson Academy, a leading dental consortium, and is an expert in smile design and delivering optimal oral function to patients. Dr. Lee’s team loves to create Beautiful Smiles for Life and give their guests the awesome smile of their dreams.
Tennis Memphis Tennis Association offers yearround leagues for men and women age 18 and up. Runs the local USTA Tennis Leagues. memphista.com Track Memphis Runners Track Club offers a racing schedule of events, retail discounts for running merchandise, training, and weekly workouts. Fee: $25 per year and $45 for two years for individuals and $30 per year and $55 for two years for households. For more information: memphisrunners.com Volleyball BPRD offers Spring and Summer Leagues. Seasons begin in March and June. Entry fee: $210 per team.
Ongoing Wellness Events The Church Health Center is offering a free, six-week course on diabetes education, helping people to take control of their diabetes. Classes are Mondays at 11 a.m. and Thursdays at 6 p.m. at Church Health Center Wellness, 1115 Union Avenue. Those interested can start anytime. For more information, call (901) 259-4673. No reservation required. Healthy cooking classes are offered in the Nutrition Kitchen at Church Health Center Wellness, 1115 Union Avenue, Tuesdays at 9 a.m. Recipes in this “Cooking with the Seasons” class are inspired by fresh, seasonal produce. Membership required. For more information, call (901) 259-4673 or visit ChurchHealthCenter.org.
www.mymemphisvet.com
«>ÃÃ >ÌiÊV>ÀiÊ ÃÊ ÕÀÊ } iÃÌÊ«À À ÌÞ° Whether it’s annual wellness examinations, single dose six month heartworm prevention, boarding, grooming, or intensive surgical procedures that your pet may need, our staff is dedicated to practicing compassionate pet care for your family. We invite you to stop by and visit.
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The Church Health Center hosts the Wings Cancer Support Group every 2nd and 4th Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Community Room A. Whether you are a survivor or caring for a survivor, join the group to receive support and understanding from professionals trained in dealing with cancer. 1115 Union Avenue, (901) 259-4673. Free and open to the public. The Kroc Center offers nutrition seminars on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. at 800 East Parkway South. Hosted by Registered Dietitian Brooke Hall, seminars are open to the public and admission is $2. For more information, call 901-729-8032.
The pediatric orthopaedic EAST E ASTClinic M MEMPHIS EMPHIS team at Campbell ET[G NGKMG EQO Ĺ&#x2022; ET T[G [G N NGK GKKMG GKMG M EEQO QO Ĺ&#x2022; knows kids from head to toe. Jeann Jeanne ne Arthu ur Arthur
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our pediatrician was concerned about my daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spine, she referred
me to Campbell Clinic. They have a team of doctors fully dedicated to treating simple Fontaine Fontai ine and complex pediatric orthopaedic
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problems. Campbell Clinic is great with 44 Big Bear Rd d $3,950,000 $3,9 50,0 50 ,000 00 0 kids â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from infants toCreek teenagers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9and Mig Williams - Owner/Agent nt
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knows how to treat a wide range of injuries and conditions. In fact, Sandra Sandr ra Le Bonheur Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital Charlt ton Charlton chose Campbell Clinic as their orthopaedic partner.
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901-834-0099 901-550-2482
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ASK VANCE
Memphis Umbrella Company Our trivia expert solves local mysteries of who, what, when, where, why, and why not. Well, sometimes.
by vance lauderdale DEAR VANCE: I recently
DEAR R.H.: Oh, what memories this brings me. The Lau-
purchased a vintage umbrella that carries a label for the Memphis Umbrella Company. Where was this establishment, and what happened to it? — r.h., memphis.
derdales often frequented this rather specialized business, because in addition to umbrellas, the proprietor also offered walking sticks and canes, and if some of these happened to conceal swords or even 410-gauge shotguns, well so much the better when we were confronted by ruffians and kidnappers. It happened more often than you’d think. The firm itself goes back quite a way, so your umbrella could be much older than you ever imagined. The Memphis Umbrella Company opened downtown at 72 Madison in 1898, owned and operated by an Englishman, Samuel J. Percer. I don’t know what brought him to Memphis, nor do I know if an umbrella shop was his primary interest, because his death certificate
A 1931 Press-Scimitar profile of Lillie Percer found it amusing that a woman could actually run a successful business.
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listed his trade as “engraver,” and he might have been responsible for the fine filigree work on the handle of his finest wares, such as the one in your possession. But the person most associated with the shop was Lillie Percer, and she was a most remarkable person, described in a Memphis Press-Scimitar article as a “pioneer career woman.” Born in Burnsville, Mississippi, in 1874, she came to Memphis to find employment, back in the days when few women sought work outside the home. Responding to a newspaper ad seeking “young ladies to learn the umbrella business,” she found her true calling. According to a reporter, “As a small child, she twirled a small umbrella, experiencing a sudden presentiment that she would one day be in the umbrella business.” At first shocked by the boldness of her prospective employer, who sat on the counter while he interviewed her (in the South, she recalled, a gentleman always stood in the presence of a lady), she not only accepted the job but, seven years later, accepted Percer’s hand in marriage. The company prospered, not only selling umbrellas, canes, walking sticks, and other high-class items, but repairing them as well. Can you imagine there was ever a time when, if your umbrella broke, you took it to be repaired, instead of just “The umbrella tossing it away and buying business is slack a new one? What a world it was! When her husband right now because it passed away in 1929, Lilhas been such a dry lie took over the business, summer. But just wait later moving it into a tiny building (still standing) until the rains come. at 1996 East McLemore. There will be a flood A 1931 Press-Scimitar profile found it amusing that of business.” a woman could actually run a successful business. A photo showed her at work repairing broken umbrellas, with the caption “Proving the Versatility of Her Sex,” and the reporter observed, “While it might seem peculiar that feminine hands could take to this mechanical sort of work, Mrs. Percer is adept at it.” But times were changing, and by the 1930s, the Memphis Umbrella Company was struggling. The owner blamed automobiles and doctors. Automobiles were trouble because people didn’t need — or want — to drive long distances in the rain, and physicians hurt her business because “they preach sunshine so much that people stopped carrying parasols to pro-
PHOTOGRAPH BY VANCE LAUDERDALE
tect them from the sun.” When Lillie Percer died in 1940, the company closed. In her obituary, she was hailed for her long career — working in the umbrella business for five decades — but also for serving as treasurer of the local Ruth Rebekah Lodge No. 1 for 35 years. That wasn’t quite the end of the Memphis Umbrella Company. Her daughter, Mrs. William N. Ingram took over. World War II closed the doors of the shop for a few years because materials such as silk and steel were in short supply, but in 1952, Ingram reopened the store in a new location at 2024 Lamar. Judging from newspaper reports, it had evolved into a decidedly eclectic business; in addition to the sale and repair of umbrellas, Ingram also ran a feed store, hobby shop, and chicken hatchery in that building. In its first year on Lamar, Ingram told reporters, “The umbrella business is slack right now because it has been such a dry summer. But just wait until the rains come. There will be a flood of business.” Well, that flood never came. Just two years later, the Memphis Umbrella Company folded.
R.I.P., Ricci DEAR VANCE: Is it true that a dog is buried among the
graves at Elmwood Cemetery? — m.c., memphis. DEAR M.C.: Yes, it’s true, but his little gravesite is so un-
obtrusive, and the marker itself so unassuming — no imposing statue of a canine here — that you could walk right by it without even noticing it, as most visitors to Elmwood probably have. But if you venture into the Miller Circle section of the cemetery, you may notice a row of three “bathtub” grave markers — so called because, as you can see in the photo here, the above-ground portion is an oval ring that resembles the rim of an old-timey bathtub. These stones mark the last resting place of a husband, wife, and young boy: Jules Rozier, Elizabeth Rozier Archer, and James Swearengen. If that first name is familiar to you, then I want to thank you, because that suggests you are a faithful reader of this
column and remember the times I have mentioned our city’s Memphis Steam Laundry, an architectural marvel since it was modeled after the Doge’s Palace in Venice, and stood for decades just behind the old Russwood Park baseball stadium. Rozier, you see, was the owner of that establishment. Buried next to him is his wife, Elizabeth, and her gravestone carries a different last name — Archer — for the simple reason that she remarried after Rozier passed away in 1964. Buried next to her is her son, James, the only son from Elizabeth’s first marriage. James died young, at the age of 18, when he was killed in the crash of a small plane just outside Cordova. His mother never really got over the loss of her son, and in the family’s large house in Central Gardens, she maintained the boy’s bedroom just as it was when he died, and a large oil painting of James stood over the fireplace in the living room. So there you have the (human) family. Behind Elizabeth’s headstone you’ll notice a carved block of white marble, tucked unusually close to her grave. It marks the last resting place of her beloved poodle, Ricci, and his grave is marked with a simple stone that resembles many of the others you’d find in any other cemetery. In her fine book on the history of Elmwood, In the Shadows of the Elms, my friend Perre Magness noted that “Mrs. Archer, contravening cemetery rules, buried her poodle in the family plot.” Note that the little dog lay there for almost 35 years, before Elizabeth herself joined him after her death in 1999. I’m sure some people are dismayed that a dog is buried among the noble monuments of Elmwood, but I think it makes this particular family arrangement complete.
Visitors to Elmwood Cemetery would have to read this small gravestone very carefully to understand that it marks the last resting place of a poodle.
got a question for vance? EMAIL: askvance@memphismagazine.com MAIL: Vance Lauderdale, Memphis magazine,
460 Tennessee Street #200, Memphis, TN 38103 BLOG: www.memphismagazine.com/Blogs/Ask-Vance
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BOOKS
Service With a Smile Memphians and local chefs team up to benefit the arts.
by leonard gill
T
hirty-four chefs, eight hundred guests, twelve arts groups, sixty performers, ten venues, twelve events.”
That’s how Susan Schadt summarizes last year’s second annual culinary arts dinner series benefiting ArtsMemphis. But more than the chefs and guests, more than the performers and venues pictured in Schadt’s latest book, Memphis: Sweet, Spicy & a Little Greasy (Wild Abundance Publishing), there’s an ingredient to add to her list: recipes — dozens of them, from haute to down-home — that those 34 chefs served the lucky guests: Sophisticated recipes on the order of “Rai Ram Roasted Littleneck
authored The Southern Vegetarian in 2013), and in Memphis: Sweet, Spicy & a Little Greasy, they steer clear of the greasy but not the spicy in their “Kombu-Cured Watermelon Crudo + Hot Peppers & Chives.” The inspiration for that dish? A ruby-red artwork, in the collection of the Hyde Family Foundations, by the late Memphis painter and printmaker Ted Faiers, and that’s the whole idea behind the culinary arts dinner series: bringing together chefs, artists, and designers — and local supporters of the arts — for memorable evenings featuring creative food and drink. Among the musical artists were singer Valerie June (at Foxfield, the farm outside Memphis owned by Michelle and Bill Dunavant); the Bo-Keys (for a sitdown dinner inside the Stax Museum of American Soul Music);
Earnestine & Hazel’s
Clams/Mussels and Shrimp in Oyster Butter Broth with Mango Sherry Puree and Arugula Oil” (from Memphis chef and restaurateur Karen Carrier). Or, for something simpler: “Doves in Red Wine Gravy” (based on a
recipe that Little Rock chef Lee Richardson borrowed from his grandmother). Or take it from Memphis photographer Justin Fox Burks and his wife, Amy Lawrence. The couple cook vegetarian (and co-
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Marcella Simien and her band (on the grounds of the Metal Museum, with the Mighty Mississippi as backdrop), who sang for their “suppa”; and Eden Brent, who belted the blues (upstairs at Earnestine and Hazel’s). Actors, visual artists, and dancers were invited too: Alice Rainey Berry and Jenny Odle Madden performing scenes drawn from a short story by Eudora Welty (at the home of Nancy McNamee); members of the Tennessee Shake-
speare Company (performing al fresco at the home of Beni and Mike Dragutsky); Memphis College of Art alum and professor Derrick Dent, who executed onsite portraits (at the dinner hosted by Barbara and Pitt Hyde); sculptor Randall Andrews, who turned a garage into a caterers’ kitchen at Nancy McNamee’s, while a cast from the Hattiloo Theatre performed numbers from Grease and dancers from Ballet Memphis traded their slippers for sneakers at the Hyde dinner. And don’t leave out interior designer Greg Baudoin, who transformed the home of Lucia and Ricky Heros into a setting for a Mardi Gras dinner, and Memphis magazine’s fashion editor, Augusta Campbell, who turned back the clock to remind partygoers of Stax in the Seventies. Chefs Keith Bambrick, Jonathan Magallanes, and Ryan Trimm took Southward Fare & Libations way south and back in time for a vintage Key West menu, while the outside block party hosted by some Midtown neighbors reminded partygoers that Memphis is still a city of neighborhoods — and newly popular food trucks. But equally important, it’s a city full of first-rate chefs, and among them is Kelly English, who, in his foreword to Memphis: Sweet, Spicy & a Little Greasy, proudly refers to Memphis’ collective, collaborative spirit. That spirit was evident in the culinary arts dinner series. It’s evident in this handsomely designed, coffee-table-size book as well. Susan Schadt, ably assisted by Annie Bares, has written entertaining introductions to go with each of the events. Lisa Buser has photographed those events, from kitchen prep to finished dish, from table setting to behind-the-scenes
“There is so much excitement in Memphis right now with food. Memphis is a big small town. We all know each other. I love that while the food industry has grown, it has kept that same sense of community.” — Kat Gordon down-time, with a real eye for the telling, colorful detail. And everywhere there’s cooking artistry on display. Just ask Chef Richardson, who discovered something about himself after a memorable weekend, complete with a 48-hour bonfire, wholeanimal cooking, and fireworks, at Foxfield: “I have been resistant to the idea of ‘chef as artist.’ In the context of this event, combined with the wide variety of art that we had available to us, it brought this concept together for me. It made me more comfortable in terms of what I do, in my mind and in my heart-of-hearts, as artistry.” And speaking of heart, Memphis: Sweet, Spicy & a Little Greasy
may make Memphians think twice about themselves and their city as well. Just ask Beni Dragutsky, a transplant from Chicago, who had this to say of her adoptive town: “I don’t think that Memphians realize just what an amazing city it is with the arts, chef-owned restaurants, and everything that goes on here. It’s also got to be one of the most philanthropic places to live. There are so many good-hearted people here who really put themselves out for all of these different organizations, making it a truly wonderful place to live. … For everyone in Memphis who thinks that the grass is greener, take it from someone who has lived in other places, it isn’t.” Kat Gordon, owner of Muddy’s Bake Shop, couldn’t agree more: “There is so much excitement in Memphis right now with food. Memphis is a big small town. We all know each other. I love that while the food industry has grown, it has kept that same sense of community. Every person in every aspect of food service in Memphis is a team player. You have this wonderful sense of camaraderie. I think it’s something really, really special compared to other cities.”
I
f you need added proof of the sense of community described in Schadt’s book, See Feeding Memphis: A Celebration of the City’s Eclectic Cuisine (Urban Agrarian Publishing Group), written by Michael Glasgow and illustrated by a number of good photographers. The motto here is “Dine Local, Give Local.” And so, in addition to Glasgow’s profiling of many of the city’s high-end restaurants and chefs, you’ll find in these pages: The Arcade, Bangkok Alley, Brother Juniper’s, Cafe Keough, Cozy Corner, Huey’s,
Las Tortugas, Lunchbox Eats, Memphis Pizza Cafe, Molly’s La Casita, and The Rendezvous. Glasgow writes that he wanted to focus on locally owned establishments: “Collectively, they represent the most accurate cultural representation of a city, as well as acting as daily ambassadors to those who visit.” That would be out-of-town visitors such as the Food Network’s Guy Fieri, who dropped in to film at Uncle Lou’s Southern Kitchen on Millbranch. That would be magazine editors visiting Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen on Brookhaven Circle, operated by Chef/Owners Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman, who were named among the country’s Best New Chefs for 2013 by Food & Wine magazine and whose Hog & Hominy, across the street on Brookhaven, was recognized for excellence by GQ, Southern Living, and Conde Nast Traveler. But add to those visitors the Memphians who have made Gibson’s Donuts on Mt. Moriah, according to Glasgow, “the busiest independent donut shop in America.” And the Memphians who not only visit but work the
kitchen at The Caritas Village in Binghamton. All employees there are hired from the neighborhood, and that means the staff ’s diverse: African American, Hispanic, Nepali, and Sudanese. A restaurant, then, but also a community center, and how much more can you give locally in support? Here’s how: For every purchase of Feeding Memphis, the publisher and Michael Glasgow will be jointly donating $10 to the Mid-South Food Bank to address food insecurity in the 31 counties the food bank serves. Thanks to those donations and to the food bank’s efficiently run regional network, each purchase means 30 meals to those in need. So do as the motto has it: Dine Local, Give Local. For more on Memphis: Sweet, Spicy & A Little Greasy or to order the book, go to www.wildabundancepublishing. com. The website for Feeding Memphis, www.FeedingMemphisBook.com, has more information as well, including an order form and a list of area bookstores and restaurants carrying the book.
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ooking for the right spot for that first date? What about something new for your next anniversary? Or do you simply find yourself with a hankering for a nice, thick burger and fries? Whatever your craving may be, you’re sure to find a delectable destination on the following pages.
Aldo’s Pizza Pies Downtown
Aldo’s Pizza Pies Midtown
100 S. Main Street • 901.5.777.PIE • aldospizzapies.com
752 S. Cooper Avenue • 901.725.PIES • aldospizzapies.com
Main Street’s most happening patio invites you for a slice and a shot of house-made limoncello! Enjoy 60 brews (30 drafts) or a handcrafted cocktail from our new list and your workday woes will melt away. We also offer fresh salads, sandwiches, and the best NY Cheesecake in Memphis. Open 7 days a week. Kid friendly. We deliver downtown.
Downtown’s favorite New York Style pie heads to Midtown with our new location located at 752 S. Cooper. Revisit the old Two-Way-Inn with new pizza pie flair. Enjoy the same great house-made dough, fresh ingredients and kid friendly service you’ve grown to love from our downtown location a little closer to home. We can’t wait to meet you Midtown! Opening Soon!
Arcade Restaurant
Babalu
540 South Main Street • 901.205.2500 • arcaderestaurant.com The Arcade Restaurant — Memphis’ oldest café — is located in the South Main Historic District, on the trolley line. Surrounded by glowing neon signs and 1920s architecture, diners enjoy such modern favorites as pesto, feta, and walnut pizza. Also serving country ham, sweet potato pancakes, hot plate lunches, cheeseburgers and fries. Large private dining room available.
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2115 Madison Avenue • 901.274.0100 • babalutacos.com Babalu Tacos & Tapas®, located in Memphis’ newly revitalized Overton Square, is a lively restaurant that uses fresh and local ingredients to create bold flavors. You will find a variety of authentic gourmet tacos, Spanishstyle tapas and handcrafted cocktails with a Southern twist. Every item on the menu, down to the blue corn tortilla, is made from scratch daily — our famous guacamole is prepared tableside. Our bar carries the finest tequilas, and all drinks are handcrafted daily using fresh squeezed lemons and limes. Open: Monday-Thursday, 11AM-10PM; Friday-Saturday, 11AM-11PM; Sunday, 11AM-9PM.
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The Bar-B-Q Shop
Bardog Tavern
1782 Madison Avenue • 901.272.1277 • dancingpigs.com
73 Monroe Avenue • 901.275.8752 • bardog.com
Now over 25 years in the Midtown area, west of Overton Square on Madison Avenue, The Bar-B-Q Shop has been using recipes made from scratch that are over 60 years old. Originators of BBQ Spaghetti & The Texas Toast BBQ Sandwich, we serve real pit barbecue cooked daily with a blend of our Dancing Pigs Bar-B-Q Sauce and Dry Seasoning, also sold in Kroger. Featured on USAToday.com, Andrew Zimmerman of The Travel Channel, & regularly in Southern Living. Private dining and bulk orders available.
We are a bar with a restaurant, not the other way around. Everyone enjoys our great staff, but they stay for the food. Serving weekend brunch, lunch, dinner, and our full menu until 2am every night, 7 days a week. Beer for breakfast? We open at 8AM Monday - Friday. Two dining and bar levels, non-smoking downstairs. Kitchen closes one hour before bar. Book the Underdog Room for private parties. 21 & over. Monday - Friday 8AM-3AM; Saturday and Sunday 11AM-3AM. Daily downtown delivery.
Belle — A Southern Bistro
Belly Acres
117 Union Avenue • 901.572.1896 • bellememphis.com
2102 Trimble Place • 901.529.7017 • bellyacres901.com
Belle—A Southern Bistro features Executive Chef David Johnson and his take on classic Southern cuisine with a unique upscale twist. Everything is made fresh with local, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy Angus ribeye steak, prepared grilled, blackened, or country fried. Beef tenderloin with truffle butter, fresh Gulf seafood, and seasonal vegetables. Catering available. Dinner, Tuesday-Saturday, 5-10PM; Happy Hour, Tuesday-Saturday, 5-7PM; and Brunch, Saturday-Sunday, 11AM-3PM. We will deliver lunch for 10 or more people daily from a new launch cater menu.
Belly Acres in Overton Square brings “Citified Farm Fresh” to Memphis. Belly Acres provides a fun, fast casual dining experience in a whimsical farm setting. We proudly serve 100% Grass Fed Beef, Free Range Chicken, handspun milkshakes and a variety of house-made farm fresh toppings to make the burger of your dreams. Our fun and unique experience has something to offer the entire family. Come visit Belly Acres and join the family affair in Overton Square!
Bhan Thai
Bounty on Broad
1324 Peabody Avenue • 901.272.1538 • bhanthairestaurant.com
2519 Broad Avenue • 901.410.8131 • bountyonbroad.com
Owner Molly Smith along with Chef Alex Kasmrijan offer original Thai cuisine in an elegant, friendly casual environment both inside and outdoors. Check out our expanded patio and outside bar that’s air-conditioned when it’s hot outside and heated when it’s cold. Private dining facility available. Some favorites include pad Thai, curries, stir-fry, and specialties like crispy duck, tuna, and salmon. Voted “Best Thai” 2003-2012. Lunch TuesdayFriday 11AM-2:30PM, dinner Tuesday - Sunday 5PM-till.
Chef Jackson Kramer teams with wife Carrie (GM) and Andy Knight (Chef de Cuisine) to deliver a variety of delights on Broad Avenue. Dinner dishes are served family style and organized by vegetable, fish, and meat. Whether a quick meal (fried cauliflower) or a longer visit (steamed mussels, pommes frites loaded with country ham, scallion creme, and goat cheese), your experience will indeed feel bountiful. We’re open Tuesday-Saturday nights starting at 5PM and Sunday brunch.
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The Brass Door Irish Pub
152 Madison Avenue • 901.572.1813 • thebrassdoor.com There’s nothing like an Irish welcome! We are an authentic and upscale Irish pub in Downtown Memphis. Opening every day at 11AM, please stop by any day of the week and enjoy a relaxing, comfortable place with genuine Irish hospitality, a wonderful menu focusing on Irish mainstays, and a splendid selection of beers, Irish ale, mixed drinks and wines by the glass. So, join us at The Door! We look forward to seeing you soon. The Brass Door Irish Pub—Where The World Meets... in Memphis.
Celtic Crossing 903 S. Cooper St. • 901.274.5151 • celticcrossingmemphis.com
Broadway Pizza 2581 Broad Ave • 901.454.7930 & 629 South Mendenhall • 901.207.1546 Old-fashioned pizza house with a lovely comfortable atmosphere where the staff has you feeling like you are in their pizza home. Delicious hot pizzas overflowing with toppings of your choice. Appetizers, salads, spaghetti, catfish, cheeseburgers, Philly cheese steaks, Broadway whole wings, daily plate lunch specials, and more. Located in Memphis’ Broad St. Arts District and look out, Memphis... NOW a second location at 629 South Mendenhall at Poplar. Legendary Pizza since 1977. Call-in orders are welcomed!
Central BBQ
• 901.207.1546 4375 Summer Avenue • 901.767.4672 & 147 Butler • 901.672.7760
Located in the heart of Midtown’s beloved Cooper-Young district, Celtic Crossing is open 7 days a week, Monday-Saturday 11AM-3AM, and Sunday 10:30AM-3AM. Our Sunday Irish Brunch from 10:30AM-3PM is offered in a family-friendly, smoke-free atmosphere, featuring live Celtic Music, the Full Irish Galtee Mountain Breakfast with mimosa and bloody mary specials. Our popular value lunch menu offers $5.95 daily specials Monday-Friday 11AM-3PM. Received the Best Patio first-place award in the 2011 Memphis Flyer’s “Best of Memphis” poll.
Voted Best BBQ sandwich, ribs, and food truck by Memphis magazine. Our beef brisket, BBQ turkey, and smoked hot wings continue to be a Memphis treasure. With seating up to 200 folks there is plenty of room for all your family and friends. Our catering team can bring you the best Central BBQ has to offer to any location. Catering business luncheons, private parties, and weddings.
Ciao Bella
eighty3
565 Erin Drive • 901.205.2500 • ciaobellamemphis.com
83 Madison Avenue • 901.333.1224 • eighty3memphis.com
Located in the heart of East Memphis, Ciao Bella Italian Grill serves authentic Italian cuisine and hand-tossed gourmet pizzas. We offer a full bar with an extensive wine list, beautiful patio, and private party facilities with full audio-visual equipment. Dine in or carry out. Catering available. Happy Hour Sunday 4-7PM, Monday-Thursday 11-7PM. Open for dinner 7 days a week. Lunch served weekdays. PGF Certified.
eighty3 features globally inspired cuisine with Southern sensibilities. Enjoy an array of delectable “shared” plates or choose your own entrée to savor—inside or out with the bustling backdrop of Main Street at the eighty3 patio year-round. eighty3 features specialty cocktails and daily happy hour food specials.
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Erling Jensen
Half Shell
1044 S. Yates Road • 901.763.3700 • ejensen.com
halfshell-memphis.com
In an elegantly sophisticated, yet warm and inviting atmosphere, Erling Jensen’s appetizers, such as Maine Lobster Pancakes or Jumbo Lump Crabcakes, are totally amazing. A few entrees to mention are Seared Diver Scallops, Herb Roasted Mero Bass, Elk Chop and Filet of Buffalo. Special Wine Dinners offered every Friday night. Incredible Sunday night specials for $38. Jensen’s approach is globally inspired and classically executed, using the freshest, most seasonal ingredients to produce meals of the highest caliber for 18+ years. Dinner nightly 5PM-10PM.
Established in 1973, the Half Shell has been voted “Best Seafood” in Memphis. We serve only the finest-quality fresh fish, King Crab, and oysters shucked to order. We also serve hand-carved premium aged beef, sandwiches, and salads. A favorite neighborhood gathering place with two locations make for a memorable dining experience worth repeating. 688 S. Mendenhall, 901.682.3966, or 7825 Winchester, 901.737.6755.
Huey’s
Interim Restaurant & Bar
hueyburger.com
5040 Sanderlin Avenue • 901.818.0821 • interimrestaurant.com
Huey’s is celebrating over 44 years of “Blues, Brews, and Burgers.” Home of the World Famous Huey Burger, voted Best Burger for 30 consecutive years by the readers of Memphis Magazine! Enjoy live music on Sundays. Shoot frill picks in the ceiling, and write on the walls. The menu offers over 12 different burger choices, a variety of delicious sandwiches ranging from a steak sandwich to a grilled tuna fish sandwich, awesome salads, and yummy homemade soups. Eight convenient locations. For directions and hours of operation, please visit hueyburger.com.
If you seek cuisine that will dazzle the eye and pique your pallet, look no further than Interim Restaurant & Bar. Whether for lunch, weekend brunch, drinks or dinner, this East Memphis jewel won’t disappoint. The fact that the state-of-the-art kitchen is visible from the dining room only adds to the experience. Pictured here: Filet Mignon, served with a red-wine glacé with a hint of tarragon and topped with a crust of watercress and bone marrow, on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, roasted carrots and mushrooms. Lunch, 11AM-2:30PM Monday-Friday. Dinner, 5:30-10PM Monday-Saturday and 5:309PM Sunday; Brunch, 10:30AM-2PM Sunday. Bar stays open between lunch
Itta Bena
Lost Pizza Co.
145 Second Avenue • 901-578-3031 • ittabenamemphis.com
2855 Poplar Avenue • 901.572.1803 • lostpizza.com/memphis
Itta Bena is an upscale restaurant tucked away above the world famous B.B. King’s Blues Club in the heart of Downtown Memphis. The restaurant was named after the small town of Itta Bena, Mississippi, where B. B. King was born in 1925. The kitchen offers a Southern contemporary cuisine inspired by the flavors found in the Mississippi Delta. The menu, professional staff, and unique setting make Itta Bena the unforgettable choice for any special event or evening out. (Located on the corner of Beale Street and Second Avenue above B.B. King’s.)
Get lost in Memphis! Come try Memphis’s hottest new pizza joint! Originating in the Mississippi Delta and inspired by the Delta Blues, Lost Pizza offers a fun, funky, friendly dining experience for the entire family! Come dine with us and try our famous MS Delta hot tamales, featured in Delta magazine, or one of our fantastic signature pizzas. We can also cater your special event and we offer a private party room perfect for birthday parties and social functions. Sunday-Thursday, 11AM-9PM; Friday-Saturday, 11AM-10PM.
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Medallion - Holiday Inn / U of M
Memphis Pizza Cafe
3700 Central Avenue • 901.678.8200
memphispizzacafe.com
Select this award-winning hotel for your catering needs. Located in the heart of Memphis, we’re first in banquets up to 1,000 people and receptions up to 1,400. Our European-trained chef reigns over a 12,000-square-foot ballroom with a permanent stage and three wood-inlay dance floors. Ice carvings, wedding cakes, and hand-made hors d’oeuvres are among our specialties. Also try our fabulous Sunday brunch.
Our crust is prepared one way — thin and crisp. Choose one of our specialty pizzas or create your own from our extensive ingredients list, and see why we’ve been voted “Best Pizza” 20 years in a row. Best pizza. Coolest workers. Five locations: Overton Square at 2087 Madison - 901.726.5343, East Memphis at 5061 Park Ave. - 901.684.1306, Germantown at 7604 W. Farmington - 901.753.2218, Southaven at 5627 Getwell - 662.536.1364, and Collierville at 797 W. Poplar - 901.861.7800
Mister B’s Restaurant
Mulan Asian Bistro
6655 Poplar Avenue • 901.751.5262
2149 Young Ave. • 901.347.3965 & 2059 Houston Levee • 901.850.5288
Mister B’s, a Mid-South tradition of fantastic Cajun seafood and colossal hand-cut steaks since 1975! You’ll find mouth-watering Louisiana specialties like po-boys, gumbo, etoufee, and great daily homestyle lunches, plus delicious entrees like Red Fish Almondine, Frog Legs, and Celestial Chicken. Mister B’s also has a full bar and great atmosphere. Open Monday-Friday 11AM-10PM & Saturday 5-10PM. Located in the Carrefour at Poplar and Kirby Parkway in Germantown.
Mulan Asian Bistro was voted in the top 100 Chinese restaurants in the USA. Authentic Chinese cuisine that will make you so warm inside you’ll be coming back for more. Now offering a new Asian fusion menu with Vietnamese spring rolls and Thai Cuisine. Our five-star chef will cater your wedding or anniversary party. We deliver within a five mile radius and the only restaurant that delivers sushi in Memphis! Located at Young Avenue and Houston Levee in Collierville.
Pete & Sam’s
Rendezvous
3886 Park Avenue • 901.458.0694 • peteandsams.com
52 South Second Street • 901.523.2746 • 888.HOGSFLY • hogsfly.com
Serving Memphis for nearly 65 years to diners of all ages. Offers delicious steaks, seafood, and traditional authentic Italian dishes, including homemade ravioli, lasagna, chicken Marsala, and fabulous thin-crusted pizzas. Consistently voted one of the best Italian restaurants in the area by Memphis magazine readers. Open every night for dinner and even most holidays.
When people come to work at the Rendezvous they stay awhile, including Big Jack (above), who retired this year after 44 years. The pork ribs are legendary, as are the wisecracking waiters and the vintage Memphis décor. Winner of numerous awards in Southern Living and other publications, the menu offers barbecued ribs, beef brisket, cheese plates, Greek salads, and wine. We ship our ribs overnight, too! Call about private parties for lunch and dinner. Open for dinner Tuesday - Saturday. Lunch Friday - Saturday only. Closed Sunday and Monday.
86 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
SCENE DINING 2015
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Restaurant Iris
Slider Inn
2146 Monroe Avenue • 901.590.2828 • restaurantiris.com
2117 Peabody Avenue • 901.725.1155 • thesliderinn.com
Home of James Beard Award semi-finalist and one of Food & Wine magazine’s “Best New Chefs” for 2009, Chef Kelly English is inspired by the familiar flavors from his childhood in southern Louisiana and incorporates that inspiration into each dish he cooks. Restaurant Iris appeared on the Food Network’s Guilty Pleasures and was voted Memphis’ “Best Restaurant,” “Best Service,” and “Best Chef,” in 2012, 2011, and 2010 by Memphis magazine readers.
Slider Inn, at Peabody and Cooper, in the heart of Midtown, boasts one of the greatest patios in town. Specializing in mini-sandwiches, or “sliders,” we’re proud to serve you burgers, chicken, fried green tomatoes, homemade meatballs, and more. We feature fresh-squeezed lemonade—mix it with vodka for a fantastic ‘LUI,’ or Lemon Under the Influence, our house specialty! Try the Mid-South’s ONLY AUTHENTIC lobster roll, a savory delight prepared with fresh Maine lobster shipped in three times a week. 4 HDTV’s, including one on our big deck. 21 and over. Monday-Sunday 11AM-3AM. Kitchen closes one hour before bar. Rev it up.
Schweinehaus
Three Little Pigs
2110 Madison Avenue • 901.347.3060 • schweinehaus.com
5145 Quince Road • 901.685.7094
A celebration of pork and bier. Bavarian inspired beer hall with a focus on great pork. Offering communal-style dining, delicious Bavarian/German cuisine with a southern twist, includes wurst platters, pork schnitzel, sauerbraten, and much more; also wide variety of beers. Providing an atmosphere that feels like Germany in Midtown Memphis. Open every day, 11AM-2AM, 21 and over after 9PM. Brunch is served Saturdays and Sundays 11AM-6PM.
Three Little Pigs serves real Memphis-style pork barbecue, slow-cooked for maximum hickory flavor, fresh coleslaw, and best Bar-B-Q baked beans in Memphis. We also offer great burgers, chicken tenders, and catfish. Get up early for our homestyle breakfast with hot biscuits, eggs, bacon, sausage, and country ham. We have soft serve ice cream. A quick lunch, or full catering service, Three Little Pigs has you covered.
Tops Bar-B-Q
Woman’s Exchange
topsbarbq.com
88 Racine Street • 901.327.5681 • womans-exchange.com
Tops Bar-B-Q Inc. is Memphis’ oldest and only home-owned chain of 15 barbecue restaurants, serving real Memphis pit barbecue since 1952. Now serving brisket and ribs. Slowly cooking pork shoulders the oldfashioned way over real hardwood charcoal and real hickory wood imparts that characteristic moist, smoky flavor that has distinguished our products for over half a century. General offices: 5720 Mt. Moriah Road, 901.363.4007.
The Woman’s Exchange Tearoom is a treasured gem, part of the “little house” at 88 Racine. Chef Emanuel Bailey and his staff daily order and prepare an array of foods, ranging from fresh vegetables, tenderloin (a Thursday tradition), homemade vegetable soup, and cornbread to mouthwatering caramel brownies. When you finish eating, you can browse the gift shop for that perfect present or an outfit for one or all of the grandchildren.
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 87
CITY DINING
Owner Glenda Hastings, managing partner Rusty Prudhon, and Chef Ken Lumpkin are updating the space and the menu at Napa Cafe.
TIDBITS
Napa Café by pamela denney
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Chef Lumpkin’s world view in the kitchen translates into beautifully plated food like the dinner salad made with goat cheese and roasted beets.
o what exactly is this Japanese pumpkin plated as a salad with goat cheese, crushed pistachios, and roasted beets, sliced into half-moons the color of Cabernet? Is it a fruit or vegetable? Do I eat the gold ring inside the watermelon’s thin strip of rind? And what about the rind? Do I eat that too? I paused with these questions for a moment or two and then scooped up a bite with all of it for a happy introduction to Chef Ken Lumpkin’s menu at Napa Café, the anchor restaurant in Sanderlin Centre since 1998. An enthusiastic fan of Lumpkin’s culinary world view, I was thrilled to discover him at Napa, creating both contemporary dishes with global flavors and more rustic dishes reminiscent of home cooking. Either way, Lumpkin’s food is elegant and a little mysterious, but still friendly. Jumbo scallops on scoops of sweet potato puree seasoned with cumin totter alongside oxtail dumplings and charred chunks of mango in umami broth, poured ceremoniously from a mini teapot when the dish is served. Hoisin chicken, by contrast, is simpler but equally satisfying, built with chicken from Springer Mountain Farms, seasonal vegetables, and smoked Gouda risotto that is soul-satisfyingly good. Well-constructed vegetarian entrees also flit across the menu, complementing owner Glenda Hastings’ vision for a classic restaurant that works as a neighborhood go-to and a destination for special occasions. Napa’s recent renovation plays to both roles. In the works for several years, the new Napa has amenities like a “library room” for intimate dinners and an open bar (Hastings knocked down the walls!) with affordable small plates. Like its reinvented menu, the décor is rustic chic, and the soon-to-be installed wall sculpture crafted with grapevines from Washington state is a charming homage to managing partner Rusty Prudhon’s award-winning wine list. “We had to wait for the vines to be dormant,” Hastings says about the couple’s recent trip to the Northwest. “We selected them ourselves, nine different vines from four different varietals.” 5101 Sanderlin, Suite 122 (901-683-0441) $$-$$$
MEMPHIS STEW We celebrate our city’s community table and the people who grow, cook, and eat the best Memphis food. memphismagazine.com/Blogs/Memphis-Stew 88 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JUSTIN FOX BURKS
OU R I N-DE P T H G U I DE T O M E M PH I S -A R E A R E STAU R A N T S
CIT Y DINING LIST
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emphis magazine offers this restaurant listing as a service to its readers. The directory is not intended as a recommendation of the establishments included, nor does it list every restaurant in town. It does, however, include most of the city’s finer restaurants, many specialty restaurants, and a representative sampling of other Bluff City eating establishments. No fast-food facilities or cafeterias are listed, nor have we included establishments that rely heavily on take-out business. Restaurants are included regardless of whether they advertise in Memphis magazine. The guide is updated regularly, but we recommend that you call ahead to check on hours, prices, and other details. Suggestions from readers are welcome; please contact us. Email dining@memphismagazine.com. ABUELO’S MEXICAN FOOD EMBASSY—Mejores de
la casa — beef and stuffed shrimp — is a specialty here, along with tilapia Veracruz, quesadillas, chili rellenos, and chicken medallions. 8274 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 672-0769. L, D , $-$$ ABYSSINIA RESTAURANT—Ethiopian/Mediterranean menu includes beef, chicken, lamb, fish entrees, and vegetarian dishes; also a lunch buffet. 2600 Poplar. 321-0082. L, D, , $-$$ ACRE—Features seasonal modern American cuisine in a stylish setting using locally sourced products; also small-plates/bar. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 690 S. Perkins. 818-2273. L, D, , $$-$$$ ALCHEMY—Southern fusion, locally grown cuisine features small and large plates; among the offerings is the pan-seared hanger steak with duck-fat-roasted fingerling potatoes; also handcrafted cocktails and local craft beers. Closed for dinner Sun. 940 S. Cooper. 726-4444. D, SB, , $-$$ ALDO’S PIZZA PIES—Serving gourmet pizzas — including Mr. T Rex — salads, and more in a chic downtown setting; also 30 beers, bottled or on tap. 100 S. Main. 577-7743. L, D, , $-$$ AMERIGO—Traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine includes pasta, wood-fired pizza, steaks, and cedarwoodroasted fish. 1239 Ridgeway, Park Place Mall. 761-4000. L, D, SB, , MRA, $-$$$ ANDREW MICHAEL ITALIAN KITCHEN—Traditional Italian cuisine with a menu that changes seasonally with such entrees as Maw Maw’s ravioli. Closed Sun.-Mon. 712 W. Brookhaven Cl. 347-3569. D, , $$-$$$, MRA THE ARCADE—Possibly Memphis’ oldest cafe. Specialties include sweet potato pancakes, a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, and breakfast served all day. 540 S. Main. 526-5757. B, L, , $ AREPA & SALSA— Offering Venezuelan dishes such as the namesake arepa (a corn-based dish with a variety of fillings) and tostones with shredded pork or black beans. Closed Sunday. 662 Madison. 949-8537. L, D, , $ ASIAN PALACE—Chinese eatery serves seafood, vegetarian items, dim sum, and more. 5266 Summer Ave. 766-0831. L, D, , $-$$ A-TAN—Serves Chinese and Japanese hibachi cuisine, complete with sushi bar. A specialty is Four Treasures with garlic sauce. 3445 Poplar, Suite 17, University Center. 452-4477. L, D, , $-$$$ AUTOMATIC SLIM’S— Longtime downtown favorite specializes in contemporary American cuisine emphasizing local ingredients; also extensive martini list. 83 S. Second. 525-7948. L, D, WB, , MRA, $-$$$ BABALU TACOS & TAPAS—This Overton Square eatery dishes up Spanish-style tapas with Southern flair; also taco and enchilada of the day; specials change daily. 2115 Madison. 2740100. L, D, , $-$$ BAHAMA BREEZE—Baby back ribs, Jamaican chicken wings, and coconut shrimp are among the entrees at this Caribbeanfusion restaurant. 2830 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 385-8744. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ BANGKOK ALLEY—Thai fusion cuisine includes noodle and curry dishes, chef-specialty sushi rolls, coconut soup, and duck and seafood entrees. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. at Brookhaven location; call for hours. 121 Union Ave. 522-2010; 2150 W. Poplar at Houston Levee (Collierville). 854-8748; 715 W. Brookhaven Cl. 590-2585. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ BAR DKDC— Features an ever-changing menu of international “street food,” from Thai to Mexican, Israeli to Indian, along with specialty cocktails. Closed Sun.-Mon. 964 S.
Cooper. 272-0830. D, , $
BAR LOUIE—Serves small plates, flatbreads, sandwiches,
salads, and such large plate entrees as Tuscan chicken pasta. 2125 Madison. 207-1436. L, D, WB, , $-$$ BAR-B-Q SHOP—Dishes up barbecued ribs, spaghetti, bologna; also pulled pork shoulder, Texas toast barbecue
BOSCOS SQUARED—Serves pasta, seafood, steaks, burgers.
sandwiches, and pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven; also a variety of freshly brewed beers. 2120 Madison. 432-2222. L, D, SB (with live jazz), , MRA, $-$$ BOUNTY ON BROAD—Offering family-style dining, Bounty serves small plates and family-sized platters, with such specialties as pork shank and stuffed quail. Closed Mon.Tues. 2519 Broad. 410-8131. D, SB, , $-$$ BOZO’S HOT PIT BAR-B-Q— Barbecue, burgers, sandwiches, and subs. 342 Hwy 70, Mason, TN. 901-2943400. L, D, $-$$ BRASS DOOR IRISH PUB—Irish and New-American cuisine includes such entrees as fish and chips burgers, sandwiches, salads, and daily specials. 152 Madison. 572-1813. L, D, SB, $ sandwich, chicken sandwich, and salads. Closed Sun. 1782 BROADWAY PIZZA HOUSE—Serving a variety of Madison. 272-1277. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ pizzas,including the Broadway Special, as well as sandwiches, BARDOG TAVERN—Classic American grill with Italian salads, and wings; now offering homemade cakes. 2581 Broad. influence, Bardog offers pasta specialties such as Grandma’s 454-7930; 627 S. Mendenhall. 207-1546. L, D, , $-$$ NJ Meatballs, as well as salads, sliders, sandwiches, and daily BROOKLYN BRIDGE ITALIAN RESTAURANT— specials. 73 Monroe. 275-8752. B (Mon.-Fri.), L, D, WB, , Specializing in such homemade entrees as spinach lasagna and $-$$ lobster ravioli; a seafood specialty is horseradish-crusted salmon. BARI RISTORANTE ENOTECA—Authentic Southeastern Closed Sun. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 755-7413. D, , MRA, $-$$$ Italian cuisine (Puglia) emphasizes lighter entrees. Serves BROTHER JUNIPER’S—Breakfast is the focus here, with fresh fish and beef dishes and a homemade soup of the day. specialty omelets, including the open-faced San Diegan omelet; 22 S. Cooper. 722-2244. D, , MRA, $-$$$ also daily specials, and homemade breads and pastries. Closed BAYOU BAR & GRILL—Cajun fare at this Overton Square Mon. 3519 Walker. 324-0144. B, , MRA, $ eatery includes jambalaya, gumbo, catfish Acadian, shrimp THE BRUSHMARK—New American cuisine with a menu that dishes, red beans and rice, and muffalettas. 2094 Madison. changes seasonally; offers sandwiches, salads, soups, pastas, 278-8626. L, D, WB, , $-$$ and crepes. Closed Mon. and Tues. Brooks Museum, Overton BEAUTY SHOP—Modern American cuisine with international Park, 1934 Poplar. 544-6225. L, WB, , $-$$ flair served in a former beauty shop. Serves steaks salads, pasta, BRYANT’S BREAKFAST—Three-egg omelets, pancakes, and and seafood, including pecan-crusted golden sea bass. Closed for The Sampler Platter are among the popular entrees here. Closed dinner Sunday. 966 S. Cooper. 272-7111. L, D, SB, , $$-$$$ Tuesday. 3965 Summer. 324-7494. B, L, , $ BELLE-A SOUTHERN BISTRO—Brisket in a bourbon BUCKLEY’S FINE FILET GRILL—Specializes in steaks, brown sugar glaze, and chicken with basmati rice are among seafood, and pasta. (Lunchbox serves entree salads, burgers, the specialties; also seafood entrees and such vegetables as and more.) 5355 Poplar. 683-4538; 919 S. Yates (Buckley’s blackened green tomatoes. Closed for dinner Sun. and all day Lunchbox), 682-0570. L (Yates only, M-F), D, , MRA, $-$$ Mon. 117 Union Ave. 433-9851. L, D, WB, , $-$$$ THE BUTCHER SHOP—Serves steaks ranging from 8-oz. BENIHANA—This Japanese steakhouse serves beef, chicken, and , fillets to a 20-oz. porterhouse; also chicken, pork chops, fresh and seafood grilled at the table; some menu items change monthly; seafood. 107 S. Germantown Rd. (Cordova). 757-4244. L sushi bar also featured. 912 Ridge Lake. 767-8980. L, D, , $$-$$$ (Fri. and Sun.), D, , MRA, $$-$$$ BHAN THAI—Authentic Thai cuisine includes curries, pad CAFE 1912—French/American bistro serving such seafood Thai noodles, and vegetarian dishes, as well as seafood, entrees as grouper and steamed mussels: also crepes, salads, and pork, and duck entrees. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. and all day French onion soup, 243 S. Cooper. 722-2700. D, SB, , MRA, Mon. 1324 Peabody. 272-1538. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ $-$$ BLEU—This eclectic restaurant features American food with CAFE ECLECTIC—Spanish omelets, and chicken and waffles global influences and local ingredients. Among the specialties are among menu items, along with sandwiches, wraps, and are a 14-oz. bone-in rib-eye and several seafood dishes. 221 S. burgers. 603 N. McLean. 725-1718; 111 Harbor Town Square. Third, in the Westin Memphis Beale St. Hotel. 334-5950. B, 590-4645; 510 S. Highland. 410-0765. B, L, D, SB, , MRA, $ L, D, , $$-$$$ CAFE FONTANA— Hearty Italian cuisine features pizzas, BLUE DAZE BISTRO—Serving pasta, and several seafood dishes, American cuisine with Cajun flair; lunch including pesce al forno and fish of the DINING SYMBOLS entrees include the Black & Bleu Salad day special. Closed for lunch Sat. and all and a crab cake sandwich; dinner day Mon. 8556 Macon Rd. 529-7526. B — breakfast entrees range from salmon to Cajun L, D, SB, $-$$ L — lunch cream penne pasta. Closed for dinner CAFE KEOUGH—European-style D — dinner Sun., and all day Mon.-Wed. 221 cafe serving quiche, paninis, salads, SB — Sunday brunch E. Commerce St. Hernando (MS). and more. 12 S. Main. 509-2469. B, 662-469-9304. L, D, SB, , $-$$$ WB — weekend brunch L, D, , $ BLUEFIN RESTAURANT & SUSHI CAFE OLE—Now under new — wheelchair accessible LOUNGE—Serves Japanese fusion ownership, this 23-year-old eatery MRA — member, Memphis cuisine featuring seafood, duck, and specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine; Restaurant Association steaks, with seasonally changing menu; one specialty is pan-seared grouper in $ — under $15 per person without also, a sushi bar and flatbread pizza. mango salsa. 959 S. Cooper. 343-0103. drinks or desserts Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 135 S. Main. L, D, WB, , MRA, $-$$ 528-1010. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ $$ — under $25 CAFE PALLADIO—Serves gourmet BOMBAY HOUSE—Indian fare salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts $$$ — $26-$50 includes lamb korma and chicken in a tea room inside the antiques shop. $$$$ — over $50 tikka; also, a daily luncheon Closed Sun. 2169 Central. 278-0129. SHADED — new listing buffet. 1727 N. Germantown Pkwy. L, , $ (Cordova). 755-4114. L, D, , $-$$ CAFE PIAZZA BY PAT BONEFISH GRILL—Serves wood-grilled fish,as well as LUCCHESI—Specializes in gourmet pizzas (including createsteaks, chicken and pork entrees. 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy. your-own), panini sandwiches, and pasta. Closed Sun. 139 S. (Cordova). 753-2220; 4680 Merchants Park Circle, Carriage Rowlett St. (Collierville). 861-1999. L, D, , $-$$ Crossing (Collierville). 854-5822. L (Fri.-Sat.), D, SB, , $-$$$ CAFE PONTOTOC—Serves a variety of internationally BONNE TERRE—This inn’s cafe features American cuisine with inspired small plates, as well as salads and sandwiches. Closed a Southern flair, and a seasonal menu that changes monthly. Mon. 314 S. Main. 249-7955. D, WB, , $-$$ Offers Angus steaks, duck, pasta, and seafood. Closed Sun.CAFE SOCIETY—With Belgian and classic French influences, Wed. 4715 Church Rd. W. (Nesbit, MS). 662-781-5100. D, , serves Wagyu beef, chicken, and seafood dishes, including $-$$$ bacon-wrapped shrimp, along with daily specials and vegetarian BOOKSELLERS BISTRO—Serves soups, sandwiches, quiche, entrees. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 212 N. Evergreen. 722-2177. salads, pasta, and seafood, including shrimp polenta; a specialty L, D, , MRA, $$-$$$ is Alpine chicken salad. The Booksellers at Laurelwood, 387 CAPITAL GRILLE—Known for its dry-aged, hand-carved Perkins Extd. 374-0881. B, L, D, WB, , $-$$ steaks; among the specialties are bone-in sirloin, and porciniF E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 89
CIT Y DINING LIST rubbed Delmonico; also seafood entrees and seasonal lunch plates. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. Crescent Center, 6065 Poplar. 683-9291. L, D, , $$$-$$$$ CAPRICCIO GRILL ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE—Offers prime steaks, fresh seafood (lobster tails, grouper, mahi mahi), pasta, and several northern Italian specialties. 149 Union, The Peabody. 529-4199. B, L, D, SB, , MRA, $$-$$$$ CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL—Serves chicken Bryan, calamari, various pastas, and other “old-world” Italian entrees. 4600 Merchant’s Park Cl., Carriage Crossing (Collierville). 854-0200; 5110 Poplar. 685-9900. L (Sat.Sun.), D, , $-$$$ 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. L, D, , $-$$ CELTIC CROSSING—Specializes in Irish and American pub fare. Entrees include shepherd’s pie, shrimp and sausage coddle, and fish and chips. 903 S. Cooper. 274-5151. L, D, SB, , MRA, $-$$ 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. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ CHEZ PHILIPPE— Classical/contemporary French cuisine presented in a luxurious atmosphere with a seasonal menu focused on local/regional cuisine. Afternoon tea served Wed.-Sat, 1-3 p.m. (reservations required). Closed Sun.-Mon.-Tues. The Peabody, 149 Union. 529-4188. D, , MRA, $$$$ CHIWAWA—American-Mexican street food includes tacos made with hand-pressed tortillas, bacon-wrapped deep-fried hot dogs, and “Juan-tons” stuffed with smoked chorizo and cream cheese. 2059 Madison. 207-1456. L, D, WB, , $ CIAO BELLA—Among the Italian and Greek specialties are lasagna, seafood pasta, eggplant rolotini, gourmet pizzas, and vegetarian options. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 565 Erin Dr., Erinway Shopping Center. 205-2500. L, D, , MRA, $-$$$ 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, , $$-$$$ COLETTA’S—Longtime eatery serves such specialties as homemade ravioli, lasagna, and pizza with barbecue or traditional toppings. 2850 Appling Rd. (Bartlett). 383-1122; 1063 S. Parkway E. 948-7652. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ CORKY’S—Popular barbecue emporium offers both wet and dry ribs, plus a full menu of other barbecue entrees. Wed. lunch buffets, Cordova and Collierville. 5259 Poplar. 685-9744; 1740 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 737-1911; 743 W. Poplar (Collierville). 405-4999; 6434 Goodman Rd., Olive Branch. 662-893-3663. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ COZY CORNER—Serving up ribs, pork sandwiches, chicken, spaghetti, and more. Closed Sun.-Mon. 745 N. Parkway. 5279158. L, D, $ THE CRAZY NOODLE—Korean noodle dishes range from bibam beef noodle with cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, to curry chicken noodle; also rice cakes served in a flavorful sauce. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 2015 Madison. 272-0928. L, D, , $ DEJAVU—Serves Creole, soul, and vegetarian cuisine. Closed Sat.-Sun. Florida St. location. 936 Florida St. 942-1400; 51 S. Main. 505-0212. L,D (S. Main), SB (S. Main), , $-$$ DERAE RESTAURANT—Ethiopian and Mediterranean fare includes fuul, or fava beans in spices and yoghurt, goat meat and rice, and garlic chicken over basmati rice with cilantro chutney; also salmon and tilapia. Closed Monday. 923 S. Highland. 552-3992. B, L, D, $ ECCO—Mediterranean-inspired specialties range from rib-eye steak to seared scallops and to linguini with Kale pesto and a grilled vegetable plate; also wild Alaskan salmon. Closed Sun.Mon. 1585 Overton Park. 410-8200. L, D, , $-$$
T U N I C A TA B L E S CHICAGO STEAKHOUSE AT THE GOLDSTRIKE—1010 Casino Center Dr., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-24KSTAY /662-357-1225. DON B’S STEAKHOUSE AT THE FITZ —711 Lucky Ln., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-766-LUCK, ext 6501. 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.
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LOCA LITY GUIDE BARTLETT
Abuelo’s Applebee’s Cajun Catfish Company Coletta’s Colton’s Steakhouse Dixie Cafe El Porton Exlines’ Best Pizza Firebirds Gridley’s Hadley’s Pub La Playita Mexicana O’Charley’s Ruby Tuesday Sekisui Side Car Cafe Side Porch Steakhouse Tops Bar B-Q CHICKASAW GARDENS/ UNIV. OF MEMPHIS
A-Tan Brother Juniper’s Cheffie’s Derae El Porton The Farmer Just for Lunch La Baguette Los Compadres Lost Pizza Medallion Osaka Japanese Pete & Sam’s R.P. Tracks Woman’s Exchange COLLIERVILLE/WEST TN.
(ARLINGTON, COVINGTON, MILLINGTON, OAKLAND)
Bangkok Alley Bonefish Grill Bozo’s Hot Pit Bar-B-Q Cafe Piazza Cajun Catfish Company Carrabba’s Italian Grill Chili’s Corky’s Crepe Maker El Mezcal El Porton Firebirds Ronnie Grisanti’s Italian Restaurant Gus’s Fried Chicken Huey’s Jim’s Place Grille Mulan O’Charley’s Osaka Japanese Memphis Pizza Cafe Pig-N-Whistle Sekisui Silver Caboose Stix Vinegar Jim’s Wolf River Cafe CORDOVA
Bahama Breeze Bombay House Bonefish Grill Butcher Shop Cafe Fontana Cheddar’s Chili’s Corky’s East End Grill El Mezcal El Porton T.G.I. Friday’s Flying Saucer Green Bamboo Gus’s Happy Mexican Hunan Palace Huey’s J. Alexander’s Jerry Lee Lewis’ Cafe & Honky Tonk Jim N Nick’s Bar-B-Q Joe’s Crab Shack
Logan’s Roadhouse Moe’s Southwest Grill T.J. Mulligan’s O’Charley’s Olive Garden On the Border Osaka Japanese Outback Steakhouse Pasta Italia Pei Wei Asian Diner The Presentation Room Pyro’s Fire Fresh Pizza Rafferty’s Red Lobster Romano’s Macaroni Grill Sekisui Shogun Skimo’s Tannoor Grill Zaytos DOWNTOWN
Aldo’s Pizza Pies Alfred’s The Arcade Automatic Slim’s Bangkok Alley Bardog Tavern B.B. King’s Blues Club Belle — A Southern Bistro Bleu Blind Bear Speakeasy Blue Monkey Bluefin Blue Plate Cafe Blues City Cafe Bon Ton Cafe Brass Door Irish Pub Cafe Eclectic Cafe Keough Cafe Pontotoc Capriccio Central BBQ Chez Philippe City Market Cozy Corner Dejavu Double J Smokehouse & Saloon Earnestine & Hazel’s Eighty3 Felicia Suzanne’s Ferraro’s Pizzeria Flight Flying Fish Flying Saucer T.G.I. Friday’s Grawemeyer’s Gus’s Happy Mexican Hard Rock Cafe Havana’s Pilon Huey’s Itta Bena King’s Palace Cafe Kooky Canuck Little Tea Shop Local McEwen’s on Monroe The Majestic Marmalade Mesquite Chop House Mollie Fontaine Lounge The Office@Uptown Onix Oshi Burger Bar Paulette’s Pearl’s Oyster House Rendezvous Rizzo’s Diner Rum Boogie Cafe Silky O’Sullivan’s South of Beale Spaghetti Warehouse Spindini The Terrace Texas de Brazil Tugs Twilight Sky Terrace Westy’s EAST MEMPHIS
Acre Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen Asian Palace Bangkok Alley Belmont Grill Blue Plate Cafe Booksellers Bistro Broadway Pizza Brookhaven Pub & Grill Buckley’s Fine Filet Grill Carrabba’s Italian Grill Casablanca Central B B Q Chili’s Ciao Bella City East Corky’s Dixie Cafe El Mezcal El Porton Folk’s Folly Fox & Hound Fratelli’s The Grove Grill Half Shell Hog & Hominy Houston’s Huey’s Interim Erling Jensen Jim’s Place Las Delicias Lynchburg Legends Dan McGuinness Pub Marciano Mayuri Indian Cuisine Mellow Mushroom Memphis Pizza Cafe Mortimer’s Mosa Asian Bistro Napa Cafe Neil’s New Hunan Old Venice On the Border One & Only BBQ Patrick’s Porcellino’s Craft Butcher Rafferty’s Sekisui Pacific Rim Skewer Soul Fish Cafe Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe Three Little Pigs Whole Foods Market GERMANTOWN
Belmont Grill Chili’s City East Elfo Grisanti‘s El Porton Exlines’ Best Pizza Germantown Comm. Mellow Mushroom Memphis Pizza Cafe Mesquite Chop House New Asia Petra Cafe Royal Panda Russo’s New York Pizzeria & Wine Bar Sakura Soul Fish Cafe West Street Diner MEDICAL CENTER
Arepa & Salsa The Cupboard Evelyn & Olive Kudzu’s Tops Bar-B-Q Trolley Stop Market MIDTOWN
Abyssinia Alchemy Alex’s Applebee’s Babalu Tacos and Tapas Bar DKDC Bar Louie
Bar-B-Q Shop Bari Barksdale Restaurant Bayou Bar & Grill Beauty Shop Belly Acres Bhan Thai Boscos Squared Bounty on Broad Broadway Pizza House The Brushmark Cafe 1912 Cafe Eclectic Cafe Ole Cafe Palladio Cafe Society Celtic Crossing Central B B Q Chiwawa The Cove Cozy Corner The Crazy Noodle The Cupboard Dino’s Ecco El Mezcal Evergreen Grill Fino’s from the Hill Frida’s Fuel Cafe Golden India Greencork Huey’s Imagine Vegan Cafe India Palace Jasmine Thai Java Cabana Lafayette’s Music Room LBOE Le Chardonnay Local Memphis Pizza Cafe Molly’s La Casita Mulan Chinese Bistro Murphy’s Old Zinnie’s Otherlands Outback Steakhouse P & H Cafe Pei Wei Asian Diner Pho Binh Pho Saigon Restaurant Iris Robata Ramen & Yakitori Bar Saigon Le Schweinehaus The Second Line Sekisui The Slider Inn Soul Fish Cafe Stone Soup Strano Sicilian Kitchen Sweet Grass Tart Three Angels Diner Tsunami Young Avenue Deli NORTH MISSISSIPPI
Ajax Diner Applebee’s Blue and White Blue Daze Bistro Bonne Terre Chili’s City Grocery Colton’s Steakhouse Como Steakhouse Corky’s Fox & Hound Huey’s Lee’s Family Restaurant Logan’s Roadhouse Lost Pizza McEwen’s Memphis Barbecue Company Memphis Pizza Cafe Mesquite Chop House Nagoya O’Charley’s Olive Garden
Oska Japanese Cuisine Outback Steakhouse Ravine Red Lobster Sekisui Wadford’s Grill and Bar PARKWAY VILLAGE/ FOX MEADOWS
Blue Shoe Bar & Grill Leonard’s Jack Pirtle’s Chicken Three Little Pigs Bar-B-Q POPLAR/I-240
Amerigo Benihana Blue Plate Cafe Brooklyn Bridge Capital Grille, The P.F. Chang’s Chipotle Exlines’ Best Pizza 4Dumplings Fleming’s Frank Grisanti’s Happy Mexican Mister B Olive Garden One & Only BBQ Owen Brennan’s Pyro’s Fire-Fresh Pizza Red Koi River Oaks Rock’n Dough Pizza Ruth’s Chris Salsa Seasons 52 Sekisui Wang’s Mandarin House RALEIGH
Exline’s Best Pizza SOUTH MEMPHIS
Coletta’s The Four Way Interstate Bar-B-Q Jack Pirtle’s Chicken SUMMER/BERCLAIR
Bryant’s The Cottage Edo Elwood’s Shack High Pockets High Point Pizza La Taqueria Guadalupana Lotus Nagasaki Inn Orr Restaurant Pancho’s Panda Garden Tops Bar-B-Q WEST MEMPHIS/ EASTERN ARK.
The Cupboard Pancho’s WHITEHAVEN
Hong Kong Marlowe’s WINCHESTER
Cheddar’s East End Grill Formosa Half Shell Happy Mexican Huey’s Logan’s Roadhouse Olive Garden Red Lobster Ruby Tuesday T.G.I. Friday’s T J Mulligan’s Tops Bar-B-Q Tycoon
CIT Y DINING LIST C LU B S / P U B S /S P O R T S B A R S
From Beale Street night spots to neighborhood bars/grills, these places dish out a variety of food. Many offer live entertainment, and patrons can’t miss the largescreen TVs. ALEX’S TAVERN— 1445 Jackson. 278-9086. ALFRED’S—197 Beale. 525-3711. MRA. B.B. KING’S BLUES CLUB— 143 Beale. 524-5464. MRA. BEALE STREET TAP ROOM—168 Beale St. 576-2220. BELMONT GRILL—4970 Poplar. 7670305; 9102 Poplar Pike (Germantown). 6246001. MRA.
EARNESTINE & HAZEL’S— 531 S. Main. 523-9754. MRA.
MEMPHIS SPORTS PUB— 5012 Park Ave. 767-8632.
EAST END GRILL—7547 Highway 64. 937-1392; 7956 Winchester Rd. 432-4256. MRA.
MURPHY’S—1589 Madison. 726-4193. MRA.
FLYING SAUCER DRAUGHT EMPORIUM—130 Peabody Place. 5237468; 1400 Germantown Pkwy. 755-5530. MRA. FLYNN’S RESTAURANT & BAR— 159 Beale St. 523-1940. FOX AND HOUND ENGLISH PUB & GRILL—847 Exocet Dr. 624-9060; 5101 Sanderlin Ave. 763-2013; 6565 Town Center Crossing (Southaven). 662-536-2200. GRAWEMEYER’S—520 S. Main. 800-1553.
BLIND BEAR SPEAKEASY— 119 S. Main, Pembroke Square. 417-8435.
HADLEY’S PUB—2779 Whitten Rd. 266-5006.
BLUE MONKEY—2012 Madison. 272-2583; 513 S. Front. 527-6665.
HARD ROCK CAFE— 126 Beale. 529-0007.
BLUES CITY CAFE—138 Beale at Second. 526-3637. MRA.
HIGH POINT PUB—477 High Point Terrace. 452-9203.
BROOKHAVEN PUB & GRILL—695 W. Brookhaven Circle. 680-8118. MRA.
HUEY’S—1927 Madison. 726-4372; 1771 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 7543885; 77 S. Second. 527-2700; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-4455; 7090 Malco Blvd. (Southaven). 662-349-7097; 7825 Winchester. 624-8911; 4872 Poplar. 6827729; 7677 Farmington Blvd. (Germantown). 318-3030. MRA.
BUFFALO WILD WINGS—3448 Poplar. 324-9225; 3770 Hacks Cross Rd. 7379463; 7188 Airways (Southaven). 662-3497776; 8385 Highway 64. 380-9294. D’BO’S BUFFALO WINGS-ANDTHINGS—4407 Elvis Presley. 345-9464; 7050 Malco Crossing,Winchester at Riverdale. 363-8700; 5727 Raleigh LaGrange. 379-0006; 1400 N. Germantown Parkway (Cordova). 754-1794. DOUBLE J SMOKEHOUSE & SALOON—124 E. G.E. Patterson. 347-2648.
JERRY LEE LEWIS’ CAFE & HONKY TONK—310 Beale St. 654-5171. KING’S PALACE CAFE— 162 Beale. 521-1851. MRA. KUDZU’S—603 Monroe. 525-4924. MRA.
EDO—Traditional Japanese cuisine includes shrimp tempura, nagiri, and chicken teriyaki. Closed Mon. 4792 Summer. 7677096. D, , $ EIGHTY3—Contemporary menu of steaks and seafood offers a variety of eclectic specialties; also weekly specials, small plates, and appetizers. 83 Madison Ave. 333-1224. B, L, D, SB, , MRA, $-$$$ EL MEZCAL—Serves burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, and other Mexican cuisine, as well as shrimp dinners and steak. 402 Perkins Extd. 761-7710; 694 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 755-1447; 1492 Union. 274-4264; 11615 Airline Rd. (Arlington). 867-1883; 9045 Highway 64 (Lakeland). 3834219; 7164 Hacks Cross Rd. (Olive Branch). 662-890-3337; 8834 Hwy. 51 N. (Millington). 872-3220; 7424 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 417-6026; 9947 Wolf River (Collierville) 853-7922. L, D, , $ EL PORTON—Fajitas, quesadillas, and steak ranchero are just a few of the menu items. 2095 Merchants Row (Germantown). 754-4268; 8361 Highway 64. 380-7877; 65 S. Highland, Poplar Plaza. 452-7330; 1805 N. Germantown Parkway (Cordova). 624-9358; 1016 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-5770. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ ELFO GRISANTI’S—Specializing in homemade northern Italian cuisine, including pasta, fish, beef and nightly specials. Closed Sun. 2285 S. Germantown Rd. 753-4017. D, , $-$$$ ERLING JENSEN—Presents “globally inspired” cuisine: specialties are rack of lamb, big game entrees,and fresh fish dishes. 1044 S. Yates. 763-3700. D, , MRA, $$-$$$ EVELYN & OLIVE—Jamaican/Southern fusion cuisine includes such dishes as Kingston stew fish, Rasta Pasta, and Jamaican jerk wings. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun.-Mon. 630 Madison. 748-5422. L, D, , $ EXLINES’ BEST PIZZA—Serves pizza, Italian dinners, sandwiches, and salads. 2935 Austin Peay. 388-4711; 6250 Stage Rd.(Bartlett). 382-3433; 2801 Kirby Parkway. 7540202; 7730 Wolf River Blvd.(Germantown). 753-4545; 531 W. Stateline Rd. 662-342-4544 (check online for additional locations). L, D, , $
NEIL’S MUSIC ROOM—5727 Quince Rd. 682-2300. OLD ZINNIE’S— 1688 Madison. 726-5004. PATRICK’S— 4972 Park Ave. 682-2852. MRA. P & H CAFE—1532 Madison. 726-0906. ROCKHOUSELIVE—2586 Poplar. 3246300. 5709 Raleigh LaGrange. 386-7222. R.P. TRACKS— 3547 Walker. 327-1471. RUM BOOGIE CAFE— 182 Beale. 528-0150. SILKY O’SULLIVAN’S— 183 Beale St. 522-9596. MRA. THE SILLY GOOSE— 100 Peabody Place. 435-6915. THE SLIDER INN— 2117 Peabody. 725-1155. SOUTH OF BEALE— 361 S. Main. 526-0388. T J MULLIGAN’S—6534 Quince. 7538056; 8071 Trinity Rd. (Cordova). 756-4480; 2821 N. Houston Levee Rd. 377-9997; 1817 Kirby Pkwy. 755-2481. UBEE’S—521 S. Highland. 323-0900 WADFORD’S GRILL & BAR—474 Church Rd. (Southaven). 662-510-5861. WESTY’S—346 N. Main. 543-3278 . THE WINDJAMMER— 786 E. Brookhaven Cl. 683-9044.
4DUMPLINGS—Chicken with celery and pork with Napa cabbage are among the hand-made dumpling varieties; also serves Asian tacos, and noodle and rice meals. Closed Sunday. 6515 Poplar. 762-4184. L, D, , $ THE FARMER—Serving upscale Southern cuisine, with a focus on locally grown ingredients. Among the specialties are pan-seared catfish, slow-cooked pot roast, and braised greens. Closed for dinner Sun.-Mon. 262 S. Highland. 324-2221. L, D, , $-$$$ FELICIA SUZANNE’S—Southern cuisine with low-country, Creole, and Delta influences, using regional fresh seafood, local beef, and locally grown foods. Entrees include shrimp and grits. Closed Sun. and Mon. Brinkley Plaza, 80 Monroe, Suite L1. 523-0877. L (Fri. only), D, , MRA, $$-$$$ FERRARO’S PIZZERA & PUB—Rigatoni bolognese and capellini pomodoro are among the pasta entrees here, along with pizzas (whole or by the slice), with a variety of toppings. 111 Jackson. 522-2033. L, D, , $-$$ FIREBIRDS—Specialties are hand-cut steaks, slow-roasted prime rib, and wood-grilled salmon and other seafood, as well as seasonal entrees. 8470 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 379-1300; 4600 Merchants Circle, Carriage Crossing (Collierville). 8501637. L, D, , $-$$$ FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE—Serves wet-aged and dry-aged steaks, prime beef, chops, and seafood, including salmon, Australian lobster tails, and a catch of the day. 6245 Poplar. 761-6200. D, , MRA, $$$-$$$$ FLIGHT RESTAURANT & WINE BAR—Serves steaks and seafood, along with such specialties as pork rib-eye and roasted duck, all matched with appropriate wines; also gourmet plate lunches. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 39 S. Main. 521-8005. L, D, , MRA, $-$$$ FLYING FISH—Serves up fried and grilled versions of shrimp, crab, oysters, fish tacos, and catfish; also chicken and burgers. 105 S. Second. 522-8228. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ FOLK’S FOLLY ORIGINAL PRIME STEAK HOUSE— Specializes in prime steaks, as well as lobster, grilled Scottish salmon, Alaskan king crab legs, rack of lamb, and weekly specials. 551 S. Mendenhall. 762-8200. D, , MRA, $$$-$$$$
FA S T- C A S U A L
Fresh cuisine prepared while you wait and served in an upscale setting. Not your typical fast-food restaurants, most serve beer, wine, and liquor. BONEHEADS—555 Perkins Extd. 746-8867. CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL—5865 Poplar, Ridgeway Trace. 416-1944. CREPE MAKER—4630 Merchants Park Cir., #731 (Collierville). 861-1981. GENGHIS GRILL—2362 N. Germantown Parkway. 584-0412; 7706 Winchester. 522-5048; 5849 Poplar, #117, Ridgeway Trace. 308-4040. HUMDINGERS—6300 Poplar. 260-8292; 1134 N. Germantown Parkway (Cordova). 271-2912. MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL— 465 N. Germantown Parkway (Cordova). 737-5058. 6300 Poplar Ave., #108. 685-5685; 3660 S. Houston Levee (Collierville). 457-7227. SWANKY’S TACO SHOP—6641 Poplar (Germantown). 737-2088. 4770 Poplar. 730-0763. MRA. TAZIKI’S MEDITERRANEAN CAFE— 540 S. Mendenhall. 290-1091. FORMOSA—Offers Mandarin cuisine, including broccoli beef,
hot-and-sour soup, and spring rolls. Closed Monday. 6685 Quince. 753-9898. L, D, , $-$$$ 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. Closed Monday. 998 Mississippi Blvd. 507-1519. L, D (call to check hours.), $ 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. 7669900. L, , $ FRIDA’S—Mexican cuisine and Tex-Mex standards, including chimichangas, enchiladas, and fajitas; seafood includes shrimp and tilapia. 1718 Madison. 244-6196. L, D, , $-$$ FUEL CAFE—Focus is on natural “Americana” dishes with such specialties as bison burgers, grass-fed beef dishes, and wildcaught fish; also vegan and gluten-free entrees. Closed Sun.Mon. 1761 Madison. 725-9025. L, D, , $-$$ 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. (Germantown). 754-5540. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ GOLDEN INDIA—Northern Indian specialties include tandoori chicken as well as lamb, beef, shrimp, and vegetarian dishes. 2097 Madison. 728-5111. L, D, , $-$$ GREEN BAMBOO—Pineapple tilapia, pork vermicelli, and the soft egg noodle combo are Vietnamese specialties here. 990 N. Germantown Parkway, #104 (Cordova). 753-5488. L, D, $-$$ GREENCORK—Wine-on-tap bar serves seasonal menu of modern Southern cuisine. Specialty is the picnic basket, which includes cheese truffles and daily selections of premium meats. Closed Sun.-Mon. 2156 Young Ave. 207-5281. D, , $-$$ GRIDLEY’S—Offers barbecued ribs, shrimp, pork plate, chicken, and hot tamales; also daily lunch specials. Closed Tues. 6842 Stage Rd. (Bartlett). 377-8055. L, D, , $-$$ FRANK GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT— Northern Italian favorites include pasta with jumbo shrimp and mushrooms; also seafood, fillet mignon, and daily lunch specials. Closed for lunch Sunday. Embassy Suites Hotel, 1022 S. Shady Grove. 761-9462. L, D, , MRA, $-$$$ RONNIE GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT—This Memphis institution serves some family classics such as Elfo’s Special and chicken ravioli, along with lighter fare and changing daily chef selection. Closed Sun. Sheffield Antiques Mall, 684 W. Poplar (Collierville). 850-0191. L (Mon.-Sat.), D (Thurs.Sat.), , $-$$$ THE GROVE GRILL—Offers steaks, chops, seafood, and other American cuisine with Southern and global influences; entrees include crab cakes, and shrimp and grits. 4550 Poplar. 8189951. L, D, SB, , MRA, $-$$$ GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN—Serves chicken with signature spicy batter, along with homemade beans, slaw, and pies. 310 S. Front. 527-4877; 215 S. Center F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 91
CIT Y DINING LIST CA SUA L DINING
For event details and tickets, visit MemphisFashionWeek.org/events.
These establishments offer American cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. While some serve ethnic entrees, the emphasis is on steaks, salads, sandwiches, pasta, fish and seafood. Also some soulfood and homestyle cooking.
GRIT &
GLAM MARCH 23-28 2015
Join the fun as Memphis budding designers, stylists, models, and photographers celebrate home-grown talent and global icons on FEATURED the runway. DESIGNERS & SPONSORS
Anne Barge | Maggie Louise Bridal Diane von Furstenberg | Joseph Dilettante Collection by Tara Skelley Emerging Memphis Designer Project Faherty Brand | Oak Hall Mara Hoffman | Indigo
ADDITIONAL SPONSORS Memphis Magazine RSVP Magazine | Click Magazine Memphis Flyer | Pavo Salon.Spa Saddle Creek | Southern Couture Eclectic Eye | The Beyond Beauty Group | Spruce 20twelve | Sachi
Photo & Styling: Well Worn Co. Model: Shelby Priest (AMAX) Wardrobe: Mara Hoffman (Indigo) Jewelry: Brave Design (Spruce) Wig: Central Wigs
Ask for Lucy
Hadskey!
J. ALEXANDERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2670 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 381-9670. APPLEBEEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2114 Union Ave. 725-7136; 2890 Bartlett Blvd. (Bartlett). 213-5034; 710 DeSoto Cove (Horn Lake, MS). 662-7725914; 7515 Goodman Rd. (Olive Branch, MS). 662-893-7555. AJAX DINERâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 188 Courthouse Sq., Oxford, MS. 662-232-8880. BELLY ACRESâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2102 Trimble Pl, 5297017.. BLUE AND WHITE RESTAURANTâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;1355 US 61. Tunica, MS. 662-363-1371. BLUE PLATE CAFEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;5469 Poplar. 761-9696; 113 S. Court. 523-2050. BLUE SHOE BAR & GRILLâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Hotel Memphis, 2625 Thousand Oaks Blvd. 362-6200. BON TON CAFEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;150 Monroe. 525-0883. CAJUN CATFISH COMPANYâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;1616 Sycamore View Rd. 383-8958; 336 New Byhalia Rd. Collierville. 861-0122 CHEDDARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;7684 Winchester. 6248881; 2147 N. Germantown Pkwy. 380-1119.
CHILIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;7810 Poplar (Germantown). 756-5203; 4609 Poplar. 685-2257; 8100 Giacosa Pl. 372-3132; 287 W. Goodman Rd. (Southaven). 662-349-7002; 237 Market Blvd. (Collierville). 853-7520; 1260 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 756-7771; 8526 Highway 51 (Millington). 872-0555. COLTONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S STEAKHOUSEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;8030 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 383-8445; 8051 Goodman Rd. (Olive Branch). 662-890-4142. COMO STEAKHOUSEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;203 Main St. Como, MS. 662-526-9529. THE COVEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2559 Broad Ave. 730-0719. THE CUPBOARDâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;1400 Union. 276-8015. EVERGREEN GRILLâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;1545 Overton Park. 249-2393. T.G.I. FRIDAYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;185 Union, Double Tree Hotel. 523-8500; 176 E. Goodman Rd. (Southaven). 662-349-4223; 7733 Winchester Rd. 752-1369; 8325 Highway 64. 372-2539.. KEMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RESTAURANTâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2751 New Brunswick Rd., Holiday Inn & Suites. 266-1952. LBOEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2021 Madison Ave. 725-0770. LOGANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ROADHOUSEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2710 N. Germantown Parkway. 381-5254; 5901 Poplar. 684-2272; 7755 Winchester Rd. 759-1430; 6685 Airways Blvd. (Southaven). 662-772-5015. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;CHARLEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;6045 Stage Rd., #74. 373-5602 (Bartlett); 1040 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 754-6201; 357 W. Goodman Rd. 662-349-6663 (Southaven); 656 W. Poplar (Collierville). 861-5811.
St. (Collierville). 853-6005; 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 373-9111; 730 S. Mendenhall. 767-2323; 505 Highway 70 W., Mason, TN. 901-294-2028. L, D, , MRA, $ HALF SHELLâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Specializes in seafood, such as King crab legs; also serves steaks, chicken, pastas, salads, sandwiches, a â&#x20AC;?voodoo menu,â&#x20AC;? and weekend brunch; oyster bar at Winchester location. 688 S. Mendenhall. 682-3966; 7825 Winchester. 737-6755. L, D, WB, , MRA, $-$$$ HAPPY MEXICANâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Serves quesadillas, burritos, chimichangas, vegetable and seafood dishes, and more. 385 S. Second. 529-9991; 6080 Primacy Pkwy. 683-0000; 7935 Winchester. 751-5353. L, D, , $ HAVANAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PILONâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Tiny eatery serving Cuban cuisine, including fried plantains in a pilon topped with shrimp, ropa vieja (shredded beef in tomato sauce), roasted pork, and a Cuban sandwich. Closed Sunday. 143 Madison. 527-2878. L, D, , $ HIGH POINT PIZZAâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Serves variety of pizzas, subs, salads, and sides. Closed Monday. 477 High Point Terrace. 452-3339. L, D, , $-$$ HOG & HOMINYâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;The casual sister to Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen serves brick-oven-baked pizzas and small plates with everything from meatballs to beef and cheddar hotdogs; also offers house-made sausages, and local veggies. Closed for lunch Mon. 707 W. Brookhaven Cl. 207-7396. L, D, SB, , $-$$ HONG KONGâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Cantonese and Mandarin standards are sweetand-sour chicken, and pepper beef. Closed Sunday. 3966 Elvis Presley. 396-0801. L, D, , $
THE OLIVE GARDENâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;7778 Winchester. 624-2003; 8405 Highway 64, Wolfchase Galleria (Cordova). 377-3437; 6615 Airways (Southaven). 662-536-3350; 5679 Poplar, #1. 761-5711. OSHI BURGER BARâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;94 s. Main. 341-2091. OUTBACK STEAKHOUSEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 1110 N. Germantown Parkway. 751-9800; 2255 Union Ave. 728-5100; 125 W. Goodman Rd. (Southaven). 662-349-7488. MRA. RAFFERTYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;4542 Poplar. 374-0096; 505 N. Germantown Pkwy. 755-4799. RUBY TUESDAYâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;1653 Sycamore View. 382-9280;7535 Winchester. 755-6570. SIDECAR CAFEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2194 Whitten. 388-0285. SILVER CABOOSEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;132 E. Mulberry (Collierville). 853-0010. SKIMOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;1166 N. Houston Levee. 7565055. MRA. SOUL FISH CAFEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;862 S. Cooper. 7250722; 3160 Village Shops Dr.(Germantown). 755-6988. 4720 Poplar. 590-0323. MRA. SPAGHETTI WAREHOUSE ITALIAN GRILLâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;40 W. Huling. 521-0907. TUGSâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;River Inn, 51 Harbor Town Square. 260-3344. MRA. VINEGAR JIMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;12062 Forrest (Arlington). 867-7568. WOLF RIVER CAFEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;460 Main St. (Rossville). 853-2586.
HOUSTONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Serves steaks, seafood, pork chops, chicken dishes, sandwiches, salads, and soups, 5000 Poplar. 683-0915. L, D, $-$$$ IMAGINE VEGAN CAFEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Dishes range from salads and
sandwiches to full dinners, breakfast items served all day. 2299 Young. 654-3455. L, D, SB, , $ INDIA PALACEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Tandoori chicken, lamb shish kabobs, chicken tikka masala are among the entrees; also, vegetarian options and a daily lunch buffet. 1720 Poplar. 278-1199. L, D, , $-$$ INTERIMâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Offers American-seasonal cuisine with emphasis on local foods and fresh fish; macaroni and cheese is a house specialty. Closed for lunch Sat. 5040 Sanderlin, Suite 105. 8180821. L, D, SB, , MRA, $-$$$ INTERSTATE BAR-B-Qâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;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, , MRA, $-$$ ITTA BENAâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Southern and Cajun-American cuisine served here; specialties are filet Oscar and shrimp and grits, along with steaks, chops, seafood, and pasta. 145 Beale St. 578-3031. D, MRA, , $$-$$$ JASMINE THAI AND VEGETARIAN RESTAURANTâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Entrees include panang chicken, green curry shrimp,and pad thai (noodles, shrimp, and peanuts); also vegetarian dishes. Closed Mon.-Tues. 916 S. Cooper. 725-0223. L, D, , $
COFFEEHOUSES/BOOKSTORE CAFES
In addition to gourmet coffees and drinks, these eateries generally serve pastries, sandwiches, soups, and salads, and some have a wider range of menu items.
5HGGRFK &RYH Â&#x2021; 0HPSKLV 71 Styling and UpDoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hair Extensions Keratin Complex Color/Color Correction Bridal Parties 92 â&#x20AC;˘ M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M â&#x20AC;˘ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
AVENUE COFFEEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;786 Echles. 454-3348. BARNES & NOBLE BOOKSELLERSâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 2774 N. Germantown Pkwy. 386-2468; 4610 Merchants Park Cl. (Collierville). 853-3264. BELLA CAFFEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Pink Palace Museum, 3050 Central. 320-6320 BLUFF CITY COFFEEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;505 S. Main. 405-4399. THE BOOKSELLERS AT LAURELWOODâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 387 Perkins Extd. 683-9801. CARITAS VILLAGE COFFEE SHOPâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 2509 Harvard. 327-5246. CENTER FOR SOUTHERN FOLKLOREâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 123 S. Main at Peabody Trolley Stop. 525-3655.
JAVA CABANAâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2170 Young. 272-7210. MUDDYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GRIND HOUSEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;585 S. Cooper. 683-8844. OTHERLANDSâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;641 S. Cooper. 278-4994. MRA. QAHWA COFFEE BARâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Claridge House, 109 N. Main.800-2227. REPUBLIC COFFEEâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;2924 Walnut Grove. 590-1578. SQUARE BEANS ESPRESSO + GELATOâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 103 N. Center St. (Collierville). 854-8855. STARBUCKSâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;1850 Union Ave. 729-4288; 3388 Poplar. 320-1021; 5201 Poplar. 818-9954; 2955 Kirby Whitten (Bartlett), 266-2497; 180 Goodman Rd. E. (Southaven). 662-349-0342; 8140 Goodman Rd. (Olive Branch). 662-890-9507. For more listings, check online. TAMP & TAPâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;122 Gayoso. 207-1053 THE UGLY MUGâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 4610 Poplar. 552-3165.
CIT Y DINING LIST 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, , $-$$ JIM’S PLACE/JIM’S PLACE GRILLE—Features American, Greek, and Continental cuisine with such entrees as pork tenderloin, several seafood specialties, and hand-cut charcoalgrilled steaks. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 518 Perkins Extd. 766-2030; 3660 Houston Levee (Collierville). 8615000. L, D, , MRA, $-$$$ JOE’S CRAB SHACK—Serves a variety of seafood, along with chicken, steak, and pasta. 7990 Horizon Center Blvd. 384-7478. L, D, , $-$$$ JUST FOR LUNCH—Serves sandwiches, quiche, salads, fresh fish including fried oysters, daily specials, and homemade rolls. Closed Sunday. 3092 Poplar, Chickasaw Oaks Plaza. 323-3287. L, D (Thurs. only), , MRA, $-$$ KOOKY CANUCK— Offers prime rib, catfish, and burgers, including the 4-lb. “Kookamonga”; also late-night menu. 97 S. Second. 578-9800; 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy. 1-8002453 L, D, , MRA, $-$$$ 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), , $ LA PLAYITA MEXICANA—Specializes in seafood and Mexican entrees, including red snapper, tilapia, oysters, chimichangas, tostados, and taco salad. 6194 Macon (Bartlett). 377-2282. L, D, , $-$$ LA TAQUERIA GUADALUPANA—Fajitas and quesadillas are just a few of the authentic Mexican entrees offered here. 4818 Summer. 685-6857. L, D, $ LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM—Popular in the 1970s for bringing name musical acts to Memphis (including Billy Joel), Lafayette’s reopens, serving such Southern cuisine as po boys and shrimp and grits, as well as wood-fired pizzas. 2119 Madison. 207-5097. L, D, , $ LAS DELICIAS—Popular for its guacamole, house-made tortilla chips, and margaritas, this restaurant draws diners with its chicken enchiladas, meat-stuffed flautas, and Cuban torta with spicy pork. Closed Sunday. 4002 Park Ave. 458-9264; 5689 Quince. 800-2873. L, D, , $ LAS TORTUGAS DELI MEXICANA—Authentic Mexican food prepared from local food sources; specializes in tortugas — grilled bread scooped out to hold such fillings as brisket, pork, and shrimp; also tingas tostados and such sides as steamed corn. Closed Sunday. 1215 S. Germantown Rd. 751-1200. L, D, , $-$$ LE CHARDONNAY—Offers pasta, wood-fired pizzas, steaks, and seafood. 2094 Madison. 725-1375. D, , $-$$ LEONARD’S—Serves wet and dry ribs, barbecue sandwiches, spaghetti, and catfish; also a lunch and dinner buffet. 5465 Fox Plaza. 360-1963. L, D (Fri.-Sat.), , MRA, $-$$ THE LITTLE TEA SHOP— Downtown institution serves up Southern comfort cooking, including meatloaf and such veggies as turnip greens, yams, okra and tomatoes. Closed Sat.-Sun. 69 Monroe. 525-6000, L, , $ LOCAL GASTROPUB—Eclectic entrees with a focus on locally grown products include lobster mac-and-cheese and double-cut pork loin. 95 S. Main. 473-9573; 2126 Madison. 725-1845. L, D, WB, , MRA, $-$$ LOS COMPADRES—Serves enchiladas, burritos, tamales, tacos, and vegetarian dishes; also Cuban entrees. 3295 Poplar. 458-5731. L, D, , $-$$ 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, , $-$$ LOTUS—Authentic Vietnamese-Asian fare, including lemongrass chicken and shrimp, egg rolls, Pho soup, and spicy Vietnamese vermicelli. 4970 Summer. 682-1151. D, , $ LYNCHBURG LEGENDS—This restaurant with a Jack Daniels’ theme and Southern cuisine serves such entrees as Bourbon Street salmon, buttermilk-fried chicken, and grilled steak and wild mushroom salad. Double Tree Hotel, 5069 Sanderlin. 969-7777. B, L, D, , $- $$$ 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 pretheatre menu and classic cocktails. 145 S. Main. 522-8555. L, D, WB, , MRA, $-$$$ MARCIANO MEDITERRANEAN AND ITALIAN CUISINE—Rack of lamb with roasted potatoes and demiglaze
is among the entrees; also steaks, seafood, and gourmet pizza. 780 Brookhaven Cl. 682-1660. D, , $-$$
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, , $-$$ MARMALADE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE—Southern homestyle entrees include catfish, honey-baked ham, steaks, and shrimp, all with a choice of three vegetables. Closed Sun. and Mon. 153 G.E. Patterson. 522-8800. D, , $ MAYURI INDIAN CUISINE—Serves tandoori chicken, masala dosa, tikka masala, as well as lamb and shrimp entrees; also a daily lunch buffet, and dinner buffet on Fri.-Sat. 6524 Quince Rd. 753-8755. L, D, , $-$$ MCEWEN’S ON MONROE—Southern/American cuisine with international flavors; specialties include steak and seafood, sweet potato-crusted catfish with macaroni and cheese, and more. Menus and hours vary at each location. 120 Monroe. 527-7085; 1110 Van Buren (Oxford). 662-234-7003. L, D, SB, , MRA, $$-$$$ DAN MCGUINNESS PUB—Serves fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, burgers, and other Irish and American fare; also lunch and dinner specials. 4698 Spottswood. 761-3711; 3964 Goodman Rd. 662-890-7611. L, D, WB (Spottswood), , $ 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, , MRA, $-$$$ MELLOW MUSHROOM—Large menu includes assortment of pizzas, salads, calzones, hoagies, vegetarian options, and 50 beers on tap. 9155 Poplar, Shops of Forest Hill (Germantown). 907-0243; 5138 Park Ave. 562-1211. L, D, , $-$$ 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, , $-$$ MEMPHIS PIZZA CAFE—Homemade pizzas are specialties; also serves sandwiches, calzones, and salads. 2087 Madison. 726-5343; 5061 Park Ave. 684-1306; 7604 W. Farmington (Germantown). 753-2218; 797 W. Poplar (Collierville). 8617800; 5627 Getwell (Southaven). 662-536-1364. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ MESQUITE CHOP HOUSE—The focus here is on steaks, including prime fillet, rib eyes, and prime-aged New York strip; also, some seafood options. 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-890-2467; 88 Union. 527-5337; 3165 Forest Hill-Irene (Germantown). 249-5661. D, SB (Germantown), , $$-$$$ MISTER B—Features New Orleans-style seafood and steaks. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 6655 Poplar, #107. 7515262. L, D, , MRA, $-$$$ MOLLIE FONTAINE LOUNGE—Specializes in tapas (small plates) featuring global cuisine. Closed Sun.-Tues. 679 Adams Ave. 524-1886. D, , MRA, $ MOLLY’S LA CASITA—Homemade tamales, fish tacos, a vegetarian combo, and bacon-wrapped shrimp are a few of the specialties. 2006 Madison. 726-1873. L, D, , MRA, $ MORTIMER’S—Contemporary American entrees include trout almondine, several chicken dishes, and hand-cut steaks; also sandwiches, salads, and daily/ nightly specials. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 590 N. Perkins. 761-9321. L, D, , $-$$ MOSA ASIAN BISTRO—Specialties include sesame chicken, Thai calamari, rainbow panang curry with grouper fish, and other Pan Asian/fusion entrees. 850 S. White Station Rd. 683-8889. L, D, , $ MULAN—Hunan Chicken, tofu dishes, and orange beef served here; some sushi, too. 2059 Houston Levee (Collierville). 8505288; 2149 Young. 347-3965. L, D, , $-$$ NAGASAKI INN—Chicken, steak, and lobster are among the main courses; meal is cooked at your table. 3951 Summer. 454-0320. D, , $$ NAGOYA—Offers traditional Japanese cuisine and sushi bar; specialties are teriyaki and tempura dishes. 7075 Malco Blvd., Suite 101 (Southaven). 662-349-8788. L, D, , $-$$$ NAM KING—Offers luncheon and dinner buffets, dim sum, and such specialties as fried dumplings, pepper steak, and orange chicken. 4594 Yale. 373-4411. L, D, , $ NAPA CAFE—Among the specialties are scallops with oxtail dumplings; focus on organic meat and seafood. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 5101 Sanderlin, Suite 122. 683-0441. L, D, , MRA, $$-$$$ NEW ASIA—Specializing in authentic Chinese food, including roast Peking duck. 2075 Exeter, Suite 90. 758-8388. L, D, , $ NEW HUNAN—Chinese eatery with more than 80 entrees;also lunch/dinner buffets. 5052 Park. 766-1622. L, D, , $
THE OFFICE@UPTOWN— Offering sandwiches, wraps, pizza, soups, salads, and several vegetarian options. Closed Sunday. 594 N. Second St. 522-1905. B, L, D, , $ OLD VENICE PIZZA CO.— Specializes in “eclectic Italian,” from pastas, including the “Godfather,” to hand-tossed pizzas, including the “John Wayne”; choose from 60 toppings. 368 Perkins Ext. 767-6872. L, D, SB, , MRA, $-$$ ON THE BORDER—Dishes out such Tex-Mex specialties as fajitas and Southwest chicken tacos; also fresh grilled seafood specials. 8101 Giacosa Pl. (Cordova).881-0808 ; 4552 Poplar. 763-0569; 6572 Airways (Southaven). 662-655-4750. L, D, WB, , MRA, $ 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, and more. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 751-3615; 567 Perkins Extd. 2494227. L, D, , $ ONIX RESTAURANT—Serves American seafood and pasta dishes. Closed for lunch Sat., all day Sun., and for dinner Mon. 412 S. Main. 552-4609. L, D, , $-$$ ORR RESTAURANT—Serves Mediterranean/African cuisine, such as lamb Kowzi flavored with raisins and roasted nuts and served with white bean soup. 661 N. Mendenhall, Suite 101. 275-8692. L, D, , $-$$ OSAKA JAPANESE CUISINE— Featuring an extensive sushi menu as well as traditional Japanese and hibachi dining. Hours vary for lunch; call. 3670 Houston Levee (Collierville). 8614309; 3402 Poplar. 249-4690; 7164 Hacks Cross. 662-8909312; 2200 N. Germantown Pkwy. 425-4901. L, D, , $-$$$ OWEN BRENNAN’S—New Orleans-style menu of beef, chicken, pasta, and seafood; jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and crawfish etouffee are specialties. Closed for dinner Sunday. The Regalia, 6150 Poplar. 761-0990. L, D, SB, , MRA, $-$$$ 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). 870-7356466. 717 N. White Station. 685-5404. L, D, , MRA, $ 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, , $-$$ PASTA ITALIA—Northern Italian cuisine features homemade stuffed pastas; a specialty is rosetta al forno; also serves fish and steaks. Closed Sun.-Mon. 8130 Macon Station Dr., Suite 106. 751-0009. D, , $$$-$$$$ PAULETTE’S—Presents fine dining with a Continental flair, including such entrees as filet Paulette with butter-pepper cream sauce and the famous K-pie; also changing daily specials. River Inn. 50 Harbor Town Square. 260-3300. B, L, D, WB, , MRA, $-$$$ 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. L, D, SB, , MRA, $-$$$ PEI WEI ASIAN DINER—Serves a variety of Pan-Asian cuisine, including Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Thai. Noodle and rice bowls are specialties; a small plates menu also offered. 1680 Union Ave., #109. 722-3780; 2257 N. Germantown Pkwy. 382-1822. L, D, , $-$$ 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, , $-$$$ PETRA CAFÉ—Serves Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern sandwiches, gyros, and entrees. Hours vary; call. 6641 Poplar Ave. (Germantown). 754-4440; 9155 Poplar (Germantown). 755-5440; 1560 Union. 505-2812. L, D, , $-$$ 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, , MRA, $-$$$ PHO BINH—Vietnamese, vegetarian, and Cantonese specialties include lemon tofu and spring rolls. Closed Sunday. 1615 Madison. 276-0006. L, D, $ PHO SAIGON—Vietnamese fare includes beef teriyaki, roasted quail, curry ginger chicken, vegetarian options, and a variety of soups. 2946 Poplar. 458-1644. L, D, $ PIG-N-WHISTLE—Offers pork shoulder sandwiches, wet and dry ribs, catfish, nachos, and stuffed barbecue potatoes. 6084 Kerr-Rosemark Rd. 872-2455. L, D, , $ PORCELLINO’S CRAFT BUTCHER—Small plates, charcuterie selections, house-made pastries, and innovative teas and coffees are offered at this combination butcher shop
F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 93
CIT Y DINING LIST
2014
WINNER kirbywines.com
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2865 Kirby Pkwy (One Block North off of 385) · p901.756.1993 · f901.757.0275 Monday - Thursday · 9am-10pm · Friday - Saturday · 9am-11pm
Too many global tastes for ONE MENU.
272.7111 • 966 South Cooper
964 S. COOPER 272-0830
94 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
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THE 2014
FACE OF
WINE AND LIQUOR
and restaurant featuring locally sourced menu items. 1711 W. Brookhaven Cl. 762-6656. B, L, $-$$ PRESENTATION ROOM, THE—American bistro run by the students of L’Ecole Culinaire. Menu changes regularly; specialties may include such items as a filet with truffle mushroom ragu. Closed Fri.-Sun. 1245 N. Germantown Pkwy (Cordova). 7547115. L, D, , $-$$ PYRO’S FIRE-FRESH PIZZA—Serving gourmet pizzas cooked in an open-fire oven; wide choice of toppings; large local and craft beer selection. 1199 Ridgeway. 379-8294; 2035 Union Ave. 208-8857; 2286 N. Germantown Pkwy. 207-1198. B, L, D, , $ RAVINE—Serves contemporary Southern cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally grown foods and a menu that changes weekly. Closed Mon.-Tues. 53 Pea Ridge/County Rd. 321 (Oxford, MS). 662-234-4555. D, SB, , $$-$$$ RED KOI—Classic Japanese cuisine offered at this familyrun restaurant; hibachi steaks, sushi, seafood, chicken, and vegetables. 5847 Poplar. 767-3456. L, D, $-$$ RED LOBSTER—Specializes in crab legs, lobster, and shrimp dishes; also pastas, salads, steaks, and chicken. 8161 Highway 64 (Cordova). 387-0056; 6535 Airways (Southaven). 662536-1960; 7750 Winchester. 759-9045. L, D, , $-$$ RENDEZVOUS—Menu items include barbecued ribs, cheese plates, skillet shrimp, red beans and rice, and Greek salads. Closed Sun.-Mon. 52 S. Second. 523-2746. L (Fri.-Sat.), D, , MRA, $-$$ RESTAURANT IRIS— French Creole cuisine includes shrimp and delta-grind grits, and New York strip stuffed with fried oysters and blue cheese. Closed Sun. 2146 Monroe. 590-2828. D, , MRA, $$-$$$ RIVER OAKS—A French-style bistro serving 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, , $$-$$$ RIVERFRONT BAR & GRILL—Beale Street Landing eatery serves Southern American specialties, including Tom Lee Catfish, and Tennessee Caviar, a fresh veggie salsa of black-eyed peas and cilantro with pimento cheese and toast points. Closed Monday. 251 Riverside Dr. 524-0817. L, , $ RIZZO’S DINER—Chorizo meatloaf, lobster pronto puff, and brisket are menu items at this upscale diner, Closed for dinner Sun. and all day Mon. 492 S. Main. 304-6985. L, D, WB, , $-$$ ROBATA RAMEN & YAKITORI BAR— Serves ramen noodle bowls and Yakitori skewers as well as rice and noodle dishes. 2116 Madison. 410-8290. D, WB, , $-$$ ROCK’N DOUGH PIZZA CO.—Specialty and custom pizzas made from fresh ingredients; wide variety of toppings. 1243 Ridgeway. 435-6238. L, D, , $$ ROMANO’S MACARONI GRILL—Serves MediterraneanItalian cuisine, including hand-crafted pasta Milano and penne rustica, and create-your-own pasta; also steaks, seafood, and salads. 2859 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 266-4565. L, D, , $-$$ ROYAL PANDA—Hunan fish, Peking duck, Royal Panda chicken and shrimp, and a seafood combo are among the specialties. 3120 Village Shops Dr. (Germantown). 756-9697. L, D, , $-$$ RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA AND WINE BAR— Serves gourmet pizzas, calzones, and pasta, including lasagna, fettucine Alfredo, scampi, and more. 9087 Poplar, Suite 111. 755-0092. L, D, WB, , MRA, $-$$ 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, , MRA, $$$-$$$$ SAIGON LE—Vietnamese/Chinese specialties include calamari with ginger, and pork chops with mushrooms; vegetarian options too. Closed Sunday. 51 N. Cleveland. 276-5326. L, D, , $-$$ SAKURA—Sushi, tempura, and teriyaki are Japanese specialties here. 2060 West St. (Germantown). 758-8181. 4840 Poplar. 572-1002. L, D, , $-$$ SALSA—Mexican-Southern California specialties include carnitas, enchiladas verde, and fajitas; also Southwestern seafood dishes such as snapper verde. Closed Sun. Regalia Shopping Center, 6150 Poplar, Suite 129. 683-6325. L, D, , $-$$ SCHWEINEHAUS— Serving Bavarian-influenced fare with a Southern twist; includes wurst platters, pork schnitzel, sauerbraten, and more; also a wide variety of beers. 2110 Madison. 347-3060. L, D, , $-$$ SEASONS 52—This elegant fresh grill and wine bar offers a seasonally changing menu using fresh ingredients, wood-fire
CIT Y DINING LIST DELI DISH
Serving sandwiches and salads, burgers and bagels, wings and chicken, these are popular spots. BOGIE’S—715 S. Mendenhall. 761-5846. MRA; 2098 LaSalle Place. 272-0022. MRA; 80 Monroe. 525-6764; 2028 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-8555. CHEFFIE’S — 483 High Point Terrace. 343-0488. CITY EAST BAGEL & GRILLE—6698 Poplar at Kirby. 754-2660. CITY MARKET— 66 S. Main. 729-6152. CORDELIA’S TABLE—737 Harbor Bend Rd. 526-4772. ELWOOD’S SHACK— 4523 Summer. 761-9898. FINO’S FROM THE HILL—1853 Madison. 272-3466. MRA. HOLIDAY HAM—2087 Union. 881-6433; 585 Erin Dr. 763-4499; 7652 Poplar (Germantown). 869-6650; 3750 Hacks Cross Rd. 6244848 JASON’S DELI—1213 Ridgeway. 685-3333; 1585 Chickering (Cordova). 844-1840; 3473 Poplar. 324-3181. KWIK CHEK—2013 Madison. 274-9293. LENNY’S SUB SHOP—2893 Poplar. 320-0022; 7424 Stage Rd. 937-0800; 22 N. Front. 543-9230; 521 S. Highland. 454-7077; 2095 Exeter, Suite 30 (Germantown). 755-0750; 4970 Raleigh-LaGrange. 371-9979; 1016 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-8299; 4726 Spottswood. 202-4800; 4740 Showcase. 368-4215; 8950 Hwy. 64 (Lakeland). 12 S. Cooper. 6300 Poplar, #111. 761-2403. MRA. LETTUCE EAT SALAD COMPANY—6641 Poplar, Suite 106. (Germantown), 552-5604. LUNCHBOX EATS—288 S. Fourth. 526-0820. LUCCHESI’S RAVIOLI—540 S. Mendenhall. 766-9922. MCALISTER’S DELI—3482 Plaza Ave. 452-6009; 7990 Trinity Rd. (Cordova). 737-7282; 7710 Poplar (Germantown). 753-1507; 975 580 S. Mendenhall. 763-2711; 3855 Hacks Cross. 881-6068; 6600 Stage Rd. (Bartlett). 213-3311. 9091 Poplar (Germantown) 756-5292. PANERA BREAD—714 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 754-5813; 4530 Poplar. 767-3116; 5865 Poplar, Ridgeway Trace. 6839384; 7850 Poplar. 759-1439; 7501 Goodman Rd. (Olive Branch). 662-890-1985. PARADISE CAFE—6150 Poplar, Suite 120. 821-9600. JACK PIRTLE’S FRIED CHICKEN—3571 Lamar. 794-1254; 2520 Mt. Moriah. 565-0203 SCHLOTZSKY’S DELI—4758 Poplar. 763-0741. UNCLE LOU’S FRIED CHICKEN—3633 Millbranch. 332-2367. WHOLE FOODS MARKET— 5014 Poplar. 685-2293. YOUNG AVENUE DELI—2119 Young. 278-0034.
grilling, and brick-oven cooking; also a large international wine list and nightly piano bar. Crescent Center, 6085 Poplar. 6829952. L, D, , $$-$$$ THE SECOND LINE—Kelly English brings “relaxed Creole cuisine” to his new eatery; serves a variety of po-boys and such specialties as barbecue shrimp, and andouille, shrimp, and pimento cheese fries. 2144 Monroe. 590-2829. L (Sat.-Sun. only), D, WB, , $-$$ 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. 7250005;1884 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 309-8800; 4724 Poplar (between Perkins & Colonial). 767-7770; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-0622; 1255 Goodman Rd. (Horn Lake). 662-536-4404; 2990 Kirby-Whitten (Bartlett). 377-2727; 6696 Poplar. 747-0001. L, D, , MRA, $-$$$ SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT—Entrees include tempura, teriyaki, and sushi, as well as grilled fish and chicken entrees. 2324 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 384-4122. L, D, , $-$$ 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. (Bartlett). 377-2484. D, , $-$$ SKEWER—Japanese yaikitori cuisine features bite-sized meat and vegetables served with dipping sauce, along with sushi, ramen, and donburi — rice bowls topped with a variety of foods. Closed Monday. 5101 Sanderlin, #105. 682-9919. L, D, , $-$$$
SPINDINI—Italian fusion cuisine with such entrees as woodfired pizzas, gorgonzola stuffed filet, and fresh seafood; pizza specials on Mon.; large domestic whiskey selection. 383 S. Main. 578-2767. D, , $$-$$$ 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 (Collierville). 8543399. L, D, , $-$$ STONE SOUP CAFE— Cooper-Young eatery serving soups, salads, quiche, pizza, and daily specials such as Italian roast beef. Closed Monday. 993 S. Cooper. 922-5314. B, L, SB, , $ STRANO SICILIAN KITCHEN & BAR—Presenting a Sicilian/Mediterranean mix of Arab, Spanish, Greek, and North African fare, Strano serves small plates, hand-tossed pizzas, wood-grilled fish, and other specialties. Closed Mon. 948 S. Cooper. 275-8986. L, D, SB, , $$-$$$ SWEET GRASS—Low-country coastal cuisine includes such specialties as shrimp and grits. Closed Mon. The restaurant’s “sister,” Sweet Grass Next Door, open nightly, serves lunch Sat.Sun. 937 S. Cooper. 278-0278. D, SB, , $-$$$ 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, , $-$$$ TART—Combination patisserie, coffeehouse, and restaurant serving rustic French specialties, including baked eggs in brioche, topped with Gruyere, and french breads and pastries. 820 S. Cooper. 725-0091. B, L, WB, , $ TERRACE—Creative American and Continental cuisine includes such entrees as filet mignon, beef or lamb sliders, five-spice salmon, and grilled vegetarian eggplant; also small plates. Rooftop, River Inn of Harbor Town, 50 Harbor Town Square. 260-3366. D, , $-$$ TEXAS DE BRAZIL—Serves beef, pork, lamb, and chicken dishes, and Brazilian sausage; also a 60-item gourmet salad area. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 103. 526-7600. L (Wed.-Fri.), D, SB, , $$-$$$ THREE ANGELS ON BROAD—Global cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients; menu includes sandwiches burgers, pastas, seafood, and steaks. Closed for dinner Sun. and all day Mon. 2617 Broad Ave. 452-1111. L, D, SB, , $-$$ THREE LITTLE PIGS—Pork-shoulder-style barbecue with tangy mild or hot sauce, freshly made cole slaw, and baked beans. 5145 Quince Rd. 685-7094. B, L, D, , $ TOPS BAR B-Q—Specializes in pork barbecue sandwiches and sandwich plates with beans and slaw; also serves ribs, beef brisket, and burgers. 1286 Union. 725-7527. 4183 Summer. 324-4325; 5391 Winchester. 794-7936; 3970 Rhodes. 3239865; 6130 Macon. 371-0580. For more locations, go online. L, D, , $ TROLLEY STOP MARKET—Serves plate lunches/dinners as well as pizzas, salads, and vegan/vegetarian entrees; a specialty is the locally raised beef burger. Also sells fresh produce and goods from local farmers. Saturday brunch; closed Sunday. 704 Madison. 526-1361. L, D, , $ TSUNAMI—Features Pacific Rim cuisine (Asia, Australia, South Pacific, etc.); also a changing “small plate” menu. Specialties include Asian nachos and roasted sea bass. Closed Sunday. 928 S. Cooper. 274-2556. D, , $$-$$$ TWILIGHT SKY TERRACE—Offers small plates of tostados, nachos, flatbreads, paninis; also hand-crafted cocktails and sweeping rooftop views of the downtown Memphis skyline. Open, weather permitting. The Madison Hotel, 79 Madison. 333-1224. L (Sat.-Sun.), D, WB. , $ TYCOON—Among the Asian entrees are spicy garlic shrimp, Thai gumbo, and special house noodle soup. 3307 Kirby Parkway. 362-8788. B, L, D, , $ WANG’S MANDARIN HOUSE—Offers Mandarin, Cantonese, Szechuan, and spicy Hunan entrees, including the golden-sesame chicken; next door is East Tapas, serving small plates with an Asian twist. 6065 Park Ave, Park Place Mall. 763-0676. L, D, , MRA, $-$$ 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, , MRA, $ ZAYTOON—Serves such Mediterranean cuisine as shish kebabs, falafel, hummus, and gyros. 694 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 754-6366. L, D, , $
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The Language of Love! sunday, february 15, 2015, 3:00 pm At the home of Mr. John Millard 7715 Dogwood Cove, Germantown, TN 38138 Celebrate Valentine’s a day late with the music of Mahler, Fauré, and Brahms. Pianist Walter Cosand joins the Ceruti String Quartet ( Soh-Hyun Altino and Marcin Arendt, violins, Lenny Schranze, viola, and Leonardo Altino, cello) in a concert fi lled with romance and passion. The perfect way to spend Post-Valentine’s Day!
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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 95
LAST STAND
Labor of Love The restaurant industry is home to many of Memphis’ unsung heroes.
by felicia willett
I
PHOTOGRAPH BY JUSTIN FOX BURKS
“You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give.” — winston churchill
n spring of 2001, when I had just moved back to Memphis from New Orleans and started scouting locations to open my restaurant, I came across two separate features in the Lifestyle section of Th e Commercial Appeal that highlighted two legends of the Memphis restaurant scene. Charlie Vergos of Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous and Thomas Boggs of Huey’s Restaurant were both titans in this business, but they were humble men who were always happy to share their secret to success. The advice they gave was simple, yet invaluable to me as I began to think about how I wanted to model my business: Always count your blessings, and pay them back to the community that gives them to you.
One of the things that makes cards to serving 750 bite-sized Memphis such an epicenter for portions at a black-tie event. The cuisine is the sheer volume of Memphis social calendar is brimunique, locally owned restauming with chef-driven dinners rants that call this city home. and galas for nonprofits. From the old and established These large-scale and higheateries that have stood the test dollar events are great for highof time by consistently providprofile charities, but they’re not the only way our food ing delicious food, to the young and contemporary places where scene gives back. Perhaps even fledgling chefs are showcasing more important and closer to new talent and ideas, thousands my heart — although far less of distinct culinary voices lend publicized — are the grassthis city its flavors. roots efforts that Memphis is not a Memphis is filled with require the food perfect place. But community’s help givers whose labor of amid its poverty and support dailove is food. and blight, the ly. The spirit of food scene serves as the pulse of generosity that f lows so freely the community, a positive force from the Memphis food scene that brightens lives and brings isn’t just restricted to restautogether people from all walks rant owners, but permeates the industry on every level — from of life. food distributers to line cooks, I can’t afford to write big checks to nonprofits as corpowaiters, caterers, cooking inrate America can, but what I can structors, food writers, cafetegive is my time and my craft, like ria workers, soup kitchen volso many others in this city. More unteers, and the list goes on. than a hundred nonprofits in Their gifts include such things Memphis approach chefs daily as running the coffee cart at for charity requests that include the Memphis Farmers Market, everything from donating gift teaching a cooking class for the 96 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5
Church Health Center, instructing a four-week series for teens through Knowledge Quest, and helping plant and maintain any of the dozens of community gardens scattered across the city. Memphis is filled with givers whose labor of love is food. These are the community’s unsung heroes. I’d like for them and for Memphis as a whole to know that their efforts are what make this city such a wonderful place to call home. The food scene has played a pivotal role in shaping Memphis culture, but the real reason we’ve thrived to such an extent is the support of a community that opts for local over
chains. Next time you’re at an event, look around and I guarantee you’ll see the usual suspects — your local restaurateurs — plating up food with a smile. We owe much to the community, and we’ve found our way of giving back. I think that Charlie Vergos and Thomas Boggs would be proud. A Jonesboro, Arkansas, native, Felicia Willett is the executive chef and owner of Felicia Suzanne’s restaurant in downtown Memphis. She is also the creator of Flo’s Homemade Goodness, an all-natural gourmet product line of pickles and preserves.
Happy Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Patek Philippe David Yurman Elizabeth Locke Pomellato Nanis Penny Preville Jude Frances Carelle Barbara Heinrich Gurhan Ippolita Heather B. Moore John Hardy Roberto Coin Mikimoto Monica Rich Kosann Yossi Harari Aaron Basha Coomi Ray Griffiths Federica Rettore Dana Kellin
474 Perkins Extended, Memphis / 3384 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta