50 Best Southern Restaurants in Memphis

“Yummy brunch menu . Great service !“

“A wonderful dining experience. Excellent service! We went to celebrate my husband’s birthday. We were offered complimentary glasses of champagne and a free dessert. I highly recommend the tomahawk pork chop . Very tender and juicy. Make sure you have reservations there was a crowd“

“Food was fabulous, great service“

“Best breakfast spot in town.“

“The food was amazing! The atmosphere was cozy and unique.... and Ms. BJ and Alcenia were a delight!“

“I tried some fried Oreos from their food truck when they were setup at the Foodees event! They were aMaZinG!!!! And the staff was very friendly too!“

“So order some lamb chops from TrapFusion901 last night at the wine on the river and this is what they gave me for $30. They definitely holds up to their name. When I ordered they told me 25/30 minutes so I go back and start getting more wine while I wait. I went back in 25 minutes, I was about to ask this lady was my food ready but before I could, this older lady from the trap made a comment "why are all these people back her, it's just to much", so trap lady #2 asked me "what I needed" and I told her "I was trying to see if my food was ready". She said "not yet". In my mind I'm wondering how would she know and not know my name. She comes back 3 minutes later to ask me my name. I told her that she should have asked me thar before saying that my food wasn't ready and then I perceived to give her my name. After that she then tells me my food was sitting on the table upfront with trap lady #1. I responded to her that she had just told me it wasn't ready and that food had been sitting there prior to me walking up. So I go to trap lady #1 and got my food. When I opened it I was highly disappointed. The chops were cold and dry. They drowned them in bbq sauce, which I don't like. On top of that it was only 3 chops in there for $30. This is another BOB I don't recommend. If they needed $30 they should have just asked.“

“Great food and great service.“

“I was a first timer and I'm always excited about supporting a black owned business and I told the cashier that but she wasn't friendly or talkative at all, the food was expensive (but what's not these days) but IT WAS SOOO GOOD! I will try once more and hopefully the owner reads this and will speak with cashier about her unfriendly, unconcerned customer service.“

“Unfortunately we were too late and the food was gone. Nevertheless, we were treated very friendly and lovingly. Everyone was happy that guests came from Germany. They also offered to come the next day. Unfortunately we are leaving tomorrow morning. Too bad.“

“I made my inaugural visit to Fannie Lou's Gourmet Chicken & Waffles tonight. The chicken was AMAZING and the mango cheesecake blessed my spirit! I will definitely visit again!“

“Had a great time while in Mempis“

“One of my coworkers suggested this place he wanted to try out, Southern Hands, for lunch. It's southern-style cooking, and that's an option I don't see a ton of even here in the south. So we swung by to try it out, and the food was fantastic!

The restaurant was in a strip, so I didn't expect much ambience, but there were pictures hung on the wall that gave the place a more homey and friendly atmosphere.

Ordering was quick at the counter, checkout was a tappity tap with the old debit chip card. Dominique took our order with a friendly smile. The crew behind the counter were fast and efficient yet obviously enjoyed working there, as there was muted banter back and forth while they worked.

Food was delivered to the table promptly. It comes in a take-out box, with silverware and a napkin. When you open the top, the first thing you spy is the cornbread. I love cornbread, and the cornbread we got was not too sweet, not too salty, moist and delicious. Under the cornbread was a foil sheet to keep your cornbread separate from the meal underneath, and to keep the food warm in case you were taking the food back to the office or home.

I had the meatloaf, with a side of mashed potatoes and black-eyed peas. I started with the meatloaf, as it was the main reason I was there. Meatloaf can be awesome or awful based on how it's cooked. As you can see from the picture, the meatloaf was landed in juice, with bell peppers and fresh tomato chunks added. It was definitely wet, and did not have a ketchup tophat to disguise flavor issues belowdecks. I don't prefer my meatloaf dry, crisp or with a ketchup cap. So for me, this meatloaf was just right. The tomatoes tasted fresh. the meatloaf had just the right seasoning.

The sides I chose worked to balance the wet of the meatloaf. The mashed potatoes were a bit dry, but I'd opted not to have gravy, because I wanted to taste the potatoes themselves, and gravy can hide a lot of taste issues. When I return I'll likely go for gravy, to see how they flavor it. The mashed potatoes held their own without it, but needed more wet and gravy would supply that. I couldn't tell if the black-eyed peas were fresh or canned. They were good, and if they were canned, I didn't notice; small chunks of bacon were added.

My coworkers chose the Fried Chicken and the Porkchop lunch specials. Their feedback was attested to by the bones they left. There wasn't any meat left on the fowl or the porker. One coworker commented that GOOD chicken doesn't require batter to add flavor, but the flavor is found in the meat, and this was true of the fried chicken. So, guess what I'm going to order on my next visit?

On our way out, I noticed that they also have a van and do catering.“

“This place is a must when visiting Memphis! SO GOOD!!!“

“Taylor was amazing tonight !!! For some reason we had received an email 15 mins before our set pick up time saying it was canceled ?? We walked in told taylor what was going on and she replaced the ordered in store , and we were still able to leave with our original order with addition to us adding some grapes that looked too good to pass up ! Thanks Taylor for making sure our new years extravaganza wasn't a failure lol and she made sure to give us serving spoons !!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼“

“Stopped at notes and provisions restaurant to eat breakfast every morning during my stay at the Crowne plaza hotel definitely I think the buffet style breakfast is an awesome idea there could be a few minor little things added to it for the price of $10 but if it continues like it is $7 is a very reasonable fee for people to totally eat up an awesome breakfast and the person that was helping to set things up and serve omelets and take care of people is got a really great personality and she's doing a great job and she totally could succeed with so much more with just a little help and it would be an awesome experience to have again thank you“

“Today as of 03/27/25 I ordered the Olivia's old south to-go, chicken salad is always good but this particular day the lady at the counter with no teeth only gives me 5 packs of crackers. Note: what can I only do with 5 packs of crackers? So I go back inn and ask for more so I realize she has a cracker in her hands eating crackers while she is ringing people up. Do she suppose to be working or on her break. So now I see why they are limited on crackers cause she eating them all. Will I come back to this location? Maybe! Do better chicken salad chick cause they actually do have great chicken salad.“

“The owner of the company just covered the few dollars I was short. I just started a new job and wasn't aware that I would be short the funds to simply buy a burger and fries. This is clear evidence of the type of people here and the amazing character you deal with here. I WILL be back, and will 100% double the tip!! THANK YOU!!“

“The food, atmosphere and hospitality were phenomenal. Everyone enjoyed their soul food. If I ever make it back to Memphis, I will definitely eat here again. The food was absolutely amazing.“

“I wish there was a 4.5! This was exactly what we wanted on a long car trip. A quick Togo meal (from a drive thru) that wasn’t burgers or the usual fast food fare. It was tasty, quick, surprisingly hot, and relatively inexpensive ($70 for 5 people). We had the fried fish, the meat loaf, the chicken tenders, chicken n dumplings, and a 4 veggie/sides plate. The spicy fried broccoli was different (in a good way). The drive thru clerk was super courteous and sweet. We were a little nervous b/c there weren’t many cars in the parking lot, but we were not disappointed. In fact, having said all that, I’m changing my review to a 5-star, b/c overall, Abbay’s should def be higher than 4.0. I wouldn’t say the food was AWESOME, but it was very solidly good. We’ll definitely be back if we’re passing through. Maybe someday we’ll see one in TX!“

“Delicious, great customer service“

“Food amazing, great blues playing in background, staff friendly, lovely atmosphere“

“The service, atmosphere and food was excellent“

“Great food. It came really quick and was piping hot.“

“Excellent service. Delicious food!!!“

“Food came out prompt and as ordered. Frys were hot. Cashier was nice and friendly. One of my favorites to eat at. My family and I eat hear a few time a month.“

“Excellent service. Delicious food!!!“

“Great food and great service.“

“Great food highly recommend“

“2nd time in Memphis. The Green Beetle is our Memphis hometown bar! Great food, reasonable prices, and the clientele is a great mix of out of towners and locals! The staff is awesome! Randy the bartender is great!“

“The place is beautiful it’s so much bigger on the inside than the outside. The staff was very welcoming and kind. My family and I enjoy their food so much I definitely recommend to those how haven’t tried it.“

“Great Establishment . I highly recommend“

“Central BBQ is a busy, buzzing spot — thanks in part to its prime location near the Civil Rights Museum. Expect a bit of a wait to order in, but honestly, you’ll need that time to scout out a table, grab a drink, and settle in.

I went with the starter sampler and wow — this tray was loaded. If I had to rank the hits:
1. Pulled pork sandwich
2. BBQ Nachos
3. Smoked wings
4. Sausage
Massive portions across the board, and the sandwich sizes looked just right for most appetites.

The venue itself is big — lots of space and seating — and the vibe feels more like a Texas BBQ joint than some of the other Memphis spots I’ve visited, which gives it a broad, approachable feel.

Delicious food, unbeatable location, great service, and fair prices. Definitely worth the stop — especially if you’re coming from or heading to the museum next door.“

“Always good never disappointed when I come here

Vegetarian options: They do have non-meat options

Parking: Plenty of space

Kid-friendliness: Nothing for kids to do but a okay place to bring them“

“I give Joann 5 stars because the service is great as well as the food.“

“The lunch is excellent home cooked Southern food. It reminded me so much of my childhood. The artisans items for sale are beautiful. They have many one-of-kind gift items and lots of stuffed animals for the young people in your life. I have not been there in years, but it was as good as I remembered. Wednesday is fried chicken lunch, so plan accordingly. 😍😋👩🏾‍🍳“

“There was a line when I got there which is a good sign. The food was so good! Nice portion size, especially the cornbread. Nicely seasoned. Good customer service! Just a nice establishment.“

“Big Myrts Wings & Things offer delicious meals while providing superb service.“

“The general condition of the restaurant was 6/10. They changed the seating area so that the seating was all against the windows. The middle was cleared as if it was a dance floor. Looks like it was an Applebee's. The restroom was passable it was clean. 6/10. Service was great! 10/10. As soon as I came in I was greeted warmly and friendly. I was the first one in. When I returned from the restroom there were several other patrons. I was bit apprehensive until the food came. Order the three wing dinner. It was fresh and tasty! 10/10. Overall because of the food and service. I would give this place a 7.5/10.“

“Stopped in for breakfast, the biscuits and gravy were delish. Highly recommend and Katie was great!“

“Whenever I visit my uncle who lives in Frayser he always recommends we eat at this restaurant. It has a great variety of well-cooked soul food. Some of my favorite dishes are the fried fish and okra. They also have a great selection of desserts. The deli plate is usually what we get because you get a meat and two vegetables and your bread and a drink. They have a large variety of food to choose from, no matter what your taste bud is it will be satisfied by this great restaurant. It has also been in business for decades now“

“We were invited to a dinner and it was catered by DemiChris! I had roast beef/carrots, greens, Mac & cheese, candied yams and cornbread! When I say everything was excellent! It was seasoned to perfection and flavorful!! I would definitely use them for an event! Score 10 ?“

“This is our third time dining at Delta’s kitchen. The food is incredible and the portions are awesome as is the service. Our new “go to” restaurant for all of our special occasions. It definitely is Memphis’ Best Kept Secret! Please don’t change a thing!“

“Peggy's Heavenly home cooking, is some of the best cooking I've had in a while. I was expecting middle of the road type of cooking. HA!!! OMG!!! It was delicious I ordered the fried catfish plate with greens and pinto beans with the cornbread riding shotgun. The only bad thing that I can say about Peggy's is that I was allowed to get my food to go, shame on me. I never got the chance to drive away. I sat right there in front of the restaurant and ate the entire plate, until my eyes were bulging out of my head. If you're a fan of down home cooking Peggy's is the place to go and the staff is friendly, professional and polite. It reminded me of the TV show cheers because they knew everybody's name GREAT JOB PEGGY'S HEAVENLY HOME COOKING“

“I stopped here by chance this morning. I was very thirsty and when I walked in there was a very long line for the food counter. So I grabbed my drink and looked at the food line again. There were people from all walks of life, different shapes and colors. So I figured if whatever they’re serving here can bring all those people together to stand inches apart it must be pretty damn good. So I waited and talked to another person in line. He said he comes here almost every morning for the breakfast and that I was gonna be blown away by how much they give and how good it is. I got a bacon egg and cheese and it was about 2 inches of bacon that was so delicious. I will definitely be going back!“

“I’ve had the Buffalo Ranch chicken sandwich and the tenders rolled in Garlic Parmesan and both were absolutely amazing! Would love love for a Slim Chickens to come to Munford/Atoka TN area!“

“Midtown wonderful establishment! Where else can you get a great meal at 7am? Classic Southern dishes. Absolutely try the Meat & 3 plus a slice of dessert! 🥧“

“I ordered off doordash...... BABBBBYYYY KISS ? ? GRANDMA THATS IN THIS KITCHEN..... OMG ? I KNOW THESE RECIPES ARE OLD SCHOOL..... SUCKING ON THE BONE AFTER YOU DONE TYPE MEAL.... IT IS PERFECTION ON A PLATE.... N BABY ITS HARD TO IMPRESS ME ..... I WILL BE ORDERING MUCH MUCH MORE...... MY SON PICKY N DONT EAT EVERYONE COOKING HE ATE HIS PLATE N EASE OVER TO MINE.... ?... COLLARD GREENS ?.... thank you and dont change a thing ?“

“I had the pleasure of dining at Willie Mae's in Memphis Tn, On August 31 2022, I was thoroughly impressed with the food . The chittlins reminded me of my mommas in Rosedale Mississippi. The cornbread was firm yet moist, the Collard greens were on the money ,just enough sweetness and pepper to create an awesome flavorprofile. The Macaroni and cheese was baked to perfection, just cheesy goodness. I don't do shout outs, but if I did Willie Mae's gets my vote!“

“Went here for lunch for the first and it was decent. I’ve passed it multiple times because I live in the area but never had a chance to stop. I got the chicken lunch plate with 2 side and cornbread. The chicken was seasoned well but wayyy to big for my liking. I do not like huge hormone injected wings. And personally the side I got the candied yams and corn didn’t have enough flavor. But it was eatable. I was expecting a home coooked meal type of vibe but this not what my granny or even my food taste like. But again it was just okay. Good for the price. The service was really good and quick. I may be back to try other items.“