The Best Restaurants in Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis, Tennessee might be known for its deep roots of rock and soul music, but you cannot keep a lively city going without food. We were presently surprised at the southern comfort food bursting from every menu.

The best part about the restaurants and bars of Memphis is how many of them feature live music every day and night. Truly a full cultural experience in one sitting.

We know everyone has their own food preferences and favorite restaurants, so let us know yours in the comments below!

Best Restaurants, Bars and Music in Memphis

Beale Street

There is no place more iconic to enjoy the live music, neon lights and southern food in Memphis than along the tourist Beale Street. During the day it is fun to check out the few tourist shops, but when the sun goes down, the music begins to flow in the streets. Do not miss out on the home of the King of Blues at BB King’s Blues Club.

Overton Square

A ten minute drive from downtown brings you to Overton Square, a revitalized business district. It might not be full of neon lights, but the funky music vibe still shines through. Enjoy many new restaurants with flavors from around the world and live music rich in soul. Popular among locals, this district easily gives Beale Street a run for the money.

The Perfect Day of Memphis Food

Breakfast: Miss Polly’s Soul City Cafe

Start your day of tourist activities off right with a full stomach from Miss Polly’s Soul City Cafe. We shared one large plate of warm chicken and waffles, big enough to suffice both our appetites. It is so delicious we wish we had more room in our stomachs!

Located in the heart of Beale Street it is the perfect place to start your day, with most attractions only a short walk away.

Lunch: The Beauty Shop Restaurant

While southern food is known for being fried, we wanted to try a different flavor offered in Memphis. For lunch we headed to The Beauty Shop Restaurant in the funky Cooper-Young’s neighborhood, a ten minute drive east of Beale Street.

With its light salads and fresh sandwiches, The Beauty Shop provided its own unique spin on the classic southern flavors. The truffle oil, black pepper & parmesan french fries had our mouth watering as soon as they hit the table.

Dinner: Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

The name says it all, this place is world famous! The spicy chicken was coming straight from the frier to our plate and they still could not keep up with demand. Served with baked beans and slaw for a rell rounded southern dinner.

Gus’s fried chicken was so great we went back three times while in Memphis. No matter what time we visited throughout the day there was a 20 minute wait for the two of us.