The post 4th Annual Memphis Black Restaurant Week! appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>This year’s Black Restaurant Week is scheduled for the week of March 3–9, 2019. Last year’s event included 11 black-owned restaurants that served 22 meals as either a two-course lunch or three-course dinner during the seven-day celebration of food. The event also helps lift the socio-economic status of the participating restaurants to bring much-needed notoriety and increase revenues.
The history of Black Restaurant Week by featured Memphian Cynthia Daniels
Cynthia Daniels, who is the Chief Event Strategist for Memphis-based Cynthia Daniels and Company, created the event in 2016. She saw it as an opportunity to shine a light on the black-owned restaurants in the city. She also saw it as an opportunity to empower black-owned restaurants, attract new customers and help strengthen all of Memphis’s communities. Her desire to make sure that black-owned restaurants be included in the culinary options offered to residents and visitors gave birth to the first Black Restaurant Week event in 2016 and has continued to drive it into its fourth year.
Her company, Cynthia Daniels and Company, is an events planning and design company, which serves businesses in and around the Mid-South region. From 2017 onward, she has been involved in organizing various events, galas and other affairs. These events are specifically designed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs in Memphis, providing a needed service to bring together and connect individuals for the betterment of the community as a whole.
Featured restaurants, chefs and cuisines
If you don’t plan to attend any of the seven days of this culinary event, may we interest you in the above Peach Cobbler Nachos, scheduled to be served up by Chef Tam’s Underground Café. Located at 2299 Young Avenue in Memphis, this restaurant does Southern cooking!
Offerings from Chef Tam includes mac and cheese, dirty rice, yams, catfish and cheesy grits. These menu items alone should get the mouth watering for some down-home Southern comfort food. Memphis-born and raised Chef Fran Mosely will also be featured along with her specially designed desserts. She is the CEO and chef of HM Dessert Lounge, a dessert bar, and a personal chef.
The event offers a variety of two-course lunch for a fixed price of $15 a plate and a three-course dinner priced at $25. More information about the complete offerings, including restaurants and locations, will be forthcoming as the event approaches. Make plans to be in or near Memphis the week of March 3–9, 2019. You will be rewarded with some of the best food from those black-owned restaurateurs looking to establish themselves as part of Memphis’s growing dining scene!
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]]>The post Vintage901 Wine & Food Festival Celebrates Women in Memphis appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>The 3rd Annual Vintage901 Wine & Food Festival is happening in Memphis from March 1st – 3rd, 2019.
Vintage901 is a Memphis non-profit that brings Memphians together through excellent tasting wine, fantastic food, and community.
What makes this event so great is not just the wine and food, it’s the movement that this event stands behind. This year, some of the proceeds benefit the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis. We love that this event is empowering women in Memphis to be all that they can be!
While the Perfect Pairings dinner, presented by Laurelwood, has already sold out, there is still limited seating available for Sunday’s Sparkling Brunch and tickets will be available online and at the door for Saturday’s Grand Tasting.
The Grand Tasting, presented by Kroger, will be Saturday, March 2nd at Crosstown Concourse East Atrium with extended hours from 3-9pm. There will be over 75 wines available to taste, wine classes by the organization’s Grand Sommelier Laurie Forster, live food demonstrations and tastings by local chefs, along with food samples from Next Door Eatery, Farm Burger, Global Cafe and Mighty Olive, charcuterie from Kroger/Murray’s Cheese shop and an opportunity to purchase goods from local craft vendors.
For those interested in something a little different from wine, Crosstown Brewery and Diamond Bear Brewery will be providing beer samples.
Guests will also go home with a canvas tote filled with Kroger water, Nikki’s Hot Ass Chips and house made Next Door Eatery cookies. One of a kind Vintage901 pottery made by local artist Melissa Bridgman will be available for purchase as well as Vintage901 swag!
The Sparkling Brunch, presented by Sedgwick, will be held on Sunday, March 3rd at Shelby Farms FedEx Center from 12-2pm with food by Chef Jimmy Gentry of P.O. Press & Provisions, Paradox Catering, and Paradox Underground.
Again, tickets are selling out fast so be sure to click the image below and get them before they are all gone!
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]]>The post Top 3 best places to eat pizza in Memphis appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>Memphis Pizza Cafe
Memphis Pizza Cafe is located in Overton Square, and it caters to people with a wide variety of tastes. In addition to their traditional pizza dishes, they also offer vegan optins as well. The Cafe is within walking distance of many nearby stores and shops, making it the perfect place to sit down for a meal while you are doing your holiday shopping.
Aldo’s Pizza Pies
Located at 100 S. Main St., Aldo’s Pizza Pies offers a wide selection of Italian food with your choice of a variety of beverages. Aldo’s has been around for a few years now and has been gaining in popularity ever since opening its doors. The food is good, and the atmosphere is inviting. Bring your friends. Bring your family. It’s a great place to share a few laughs over a good Italian pie.
Garibaldi’s Pizza
Known for its late-night hours, Garibaldi’s Pizza also offers some of the best pies in town. It’s located at 3530 Walker Ave., and it serves subs and pasta in addition to its many varieties of pizza. Garibaldi’s has been serving pizza in the Memphis area for many years and has a long-standing tradition of having some of the best food in the area.
Choose901 offers a great guide to many of the best places to eat in Memphis. As one of the most popular websites in terms of bringing people together, Choose901 is often the go-to place for finding events or learning about new businesses. By helping to connect people, either for business or pleasure, they are able to strengthen the Memphis community as a whole. This promotes new growth and helps local businesses thrive. If you’re looking for the best pizza in Memphis or the latest events, Choose901 is the place to go.
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]]>The post Love Barbecue? Here’s How to Make Memphis Style Ribs appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>It’s all in the meat
Good Memphis style ribs always start with smoked pork, either pulled or on the slab. If you want the meat to be tender and full of taste, let it smoke for several hours to bring out all of the flavors in the meat. It’s important to use the best cuts and the highest quality of meat possible. Good quality meat will ensure the taste is true to authentic Memphis style, even without the herbs and spices.
Dry rubs vs. wet sauce
Dry rubs are just as popular as the different kinds of wet sauces that are used throughout Memphis. Dry rubs normally contain garlic, paprika, pepper, cumin and onions, as well as other herbs and spices. Memphis style barbecue sauce is made from ripe tomatoes, a variety of spices and just the right amount of vinegar to produce a thin sauce that’s tart and tangy with a hint of sweetness. It’s thin enough to drizzle over ribs coated with a dry rub or to sit beside a plate of pulled pork for use as a dipping sauce.
Don’t make it, buy it!
If you don’t have the time to cook, visit one of the many local bars or restaurants that offer Memphis style ribs. There’s quite the variety to choose from, and each of these dining spots offers ribs with a unique taste and flair. There are so many options, you could literally visit one or two a week and it would still take you over a year to sample them all.
If you’re in the mood for a good Memphis style barbecue recipe for your ribs, then ask around. Everyone either knows of a place that serves good ribs or has a recipe that you “just have to try!” Find a recipe that you like and do a little experimenting to make it your own. Who knows? You may end up creating the next best thing when it comes to good old Memphis style ribs!
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]]>The post The Top 5 Places to Eat in Memphis appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>1. Charlie Vergos Rendezvous
Single-handedly responsible for converting BBQ sauce lovers into ardent fans of dry rubs, you aren’t going to want to skip this place when you come to Memphis. The portions are generous, and the prices are great. Try the ribs and brisket combo, and then buy some of their famous seasonings to take home! Their hours vary during the week, so call ahead or check their website for details.
Location: 52 S. Second St., Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: (901) 523-2746
2. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
The building is nothing fancy, but the food?—ask around, and the locals will tell you it’s the place to eat. The menu includes options, such as fried green tomatoes, okra, baked beans and (of course) some of the best chicken you’ll ever eat. Open every day at 11:00 a.m., the food is on the low end of price and the high end of taste.
Location: 310 S. Front St., Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: (901) 527-4877
3. Central BBQ
No bones about it, Central BBQ leads the pack when it comes to authentic barbeque in Memphis. Think: “rough around the edges” Look for their famous BBQ nachos and don’t you dare leave without trying the ribs. Offering generous portions on wooden tables with paper towels instead of napkins, Central serves BBQ the way it was meant to be eaten.
Location: 2249 Central Ave., Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 272-9377
4. Gibson’s Donuts
A Memphis trademark, Gibson’s Donuts, has been known to turn people into donut fans. Try the famous maple bacon or the pineapple coconut fritter. (Hint: They’ve been known to give first-timers a donut straight from the fryer. It certainly doesn’t hurt to ask!) And the best news?—they’re open 24/7! The place is always clean and the staff is always friendly. Go see for yourself!
Location: 760 Mount Moriah Rd, Memphis, TN 38117
Phone: (901) 682-8200
5. Gladys’ Diner
It should be illegal to visit Memphis without doing something to honor the King of Rock and Roll. Why not enjoy his favorite snack? The grilled peanut butter and banana sandwich is made the way he liked it in Gladys’ Diner at Graceland. Tour the home of Elvis or just pop in for a snack. Either way, the grilled peanut butter and banana sandwich has been known to live up to its hype.
Location: 3734 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116
Phone: (901) 332-3322
So whether you come to Memphis to work or play, be sure to visit the top five places to eat in Memphis. Another idea: Enjoy age-old Memphis restaurants in historically significant places. Here’s another list to get you started.
Additional Reading:
Click the following to check out their websites:
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
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]]>The post Top 5 upscale Memphis restaurants to get you in the holiday spirit! appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>No. 1: Folk’s Folly Prime Steakhouse
Memphis’ original prime steakhouse, Folk’s Folly, has been serving the residents of Memphis since 1977. With intimate lighting, private dining and a cozy lounge, Folks Folly Prime Steakhouse is the perfect place for a quiet, relaxing evening with your closest family members.
No. 2: Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar
If Folk’s Folly Prime Steakhouse is Southern hospitality, then Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar is full-on contemporary. A modern, sophisticated restaurant where small plates are served alongside taster glasses of wine, Flight Restaurant is a unique experience and a great way to start an evening.
No. 3: Texas de Brazil
The holidays are a time for a feast — and few restaurants do it as well as Texas de Brazil. Your family members will be treated to an assortment of premium, exotic meats that will keep coming until you’re ready to tap out, and you can enjoy an elegant salad bar with hundreds of options.
No. 4: Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen
Situated in a house with a garden, Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen is a family-style experience like no other. Andrew Michael is a traditional Italian restaurant that also brings together the tastes and ingredients from the local area — a great way to experience local cuisine for those who are from out of town.
No. 5: Paulette’s
A variety of fine wines and classic American continental foods ensure that Paulette’s has something for everyone. French, Hungarian and regional dishes are complemented by handcrafted cocktails and an assortment of the best wine and spirits. Be sure to book in advance as Paulette’s fills up fast.
There you have it: the top five Memphis restaurants to get you in the holiday spirit. Begin booking your trip and making your restaurant reservations today if you want to experience the best of Memphis!
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]]>The post Here are the top Instagram food pictures Memphis has to offer! appeared first on We Are Memphis.
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Folk’s Folly
Let’s start with Folk’s Folly, which was established in 1977 as Memphis’ Original Prime Steak House. Its menu boasts Memphis’ finest prime steaks and fresh seafood, and you won’t be able to resist the mouthwatering pictures of signature dishes like the A5 Japanese beef tataki and prime cut Atlantic salmon. If you weren’t hungry before, you will be now.
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Sunrise Memphis
Next, we have Sunrise Memphis, whose menu of classic breakfast and lunch favorites doesn’t disappoint. Adult patrons can choose from a selection of cocktails, while kids of all ages will love the colorful Fruity Pebbles waffles and waffles with sprinkles. Not only do these menu options sound delicious, they look it, too! Sunrise Memphis also provides its Memphis servers and cooks with brunch on Sundays in an effort to ensure workers in the local restaurant industry get to enjoy a Sunday staple like the rest of us!
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Catherine & Mary’s
Catherine & Mary’s has a Southern take on the Sicilian and Tuscan home cooking you might find in your grandmother’s kitchen. The images of this restaurant’s fare truly pop on Instagram, from the scrumptious-looking pork belly with Carolina gold rice to the ribeye with spinach rotolo and tomato salad. If only the technology existed to order these dishes straight from your phone—oh, wait, it does.
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Charles Vergos’ Rendezvous
Located in a refurbished basement on a downtown Memphis alley, Charles Vergos’ Rendezvous was the setting for the creation of Memphis-style barbecue ribs more than 70 years ago. Fast-forward to the present and you can practically smell the Instagram pictures of ribs cooking and sausages sizzling. And don’t get me started on the dishes themselves—there’s brisket and chicken and lamb, oh my!
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Rise
Lastly, Rise serves up Southern biscuits, chicken and sweets that are almost as delicious onscreen as they are on your taste buds. Rise makes fresh biscuits daily—every 30 minutes, to be precise—that include but are by no means limited to the honey butter chicken biscuit slider, the spicy chickaboom biscuit and the blueberry biscuit. The cheese oozes and the freshness is obvious, but if you’re not in the mood for a biscuit, be sure to snag a fresh donut.
Each of the Memphis restaurants listed here is unique in its own way, yet they all have something in common: The food looks so amazing on Instagram that I can only imagine how good it actually tastes. I can’t wait to try them all—what about you?
Additional reading:
Sunrise Memphis (and sister restaurant 117 Prime, a traditional American steakhouse with Southern charm)
Catherine & Mary’s (and sister restaurant Hog and Hominy)
And last but not least, check out @wearememphisfood on Instagram!
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]]>The post If you love burgers, you won’t want to miss this! appeared first on We Are Memphis.
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Photo Credit: Farm Burger Memphis Facebook
The 411 on Burger Week 2018
This year’s Memphis Flyer Burger Week will run from Wednesday, July 11 through Tuesday, July 17, with burger specials available for lunch or dinner. The full event guide will be available in the July 11 issue of the Memphis Flyer.
The list of eateries participating in the 2018 have been announced with more coming soon.
Check them out below!
- Arnold’s BBQ & Grill
- Bardog Tavern
- Carolina Watershed
- Chomp Food Truck
- Craft Republic
- Farm Burger Memphis
- Flying Saucer Memphis
- The Green Beetle
- EP’s Bar & Grill
- The Grove Grill
- Huey’s
- LBOE
- Local Gastropub
- Memphis MoJo Café
- Pimentos Kitchen + Market
- RAWK’n Grub
- Sammy Hagar’s Beach Bar and Grill at Southland Park
- The Slider Inn
- Tin Roof Memphis
- Tops Bar-B-Q
- UBEE’S Memphis
- Wimpy’s Burgers and Fries
Burger Week backstory
The first iteration of Burger Week featured seven of Memphis’ best burgers, all served up for $5. From basic patties done right to gourmet delicacies served on brioche, each offering brought something different to the (literal) table.
In past years, Memphis Flyer Burger Week was strictly a dine-in affair, but that all changed in 2017 thanks to local delivery service Bite Squad.
Photo Credit: LBOE Facebook
Doing Burger Week right
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind as the fourth annual Memphis Flyer Burger Week draws closer:
- Participating restaurants can—and do—run out of burgers, so have a backup location in mind before you venture out.
- Perhaps unsurprisingly, you can definitely expect a wait as Memphians flock to local eateries for delicious burgers at a low price.
- Sure, burgers are $5, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t spring for fries and a drink. Go ahead and make a meal of it!
- Burger Week is renowned for its deals, but many establishments promote discount codes and other special offers on their social media accounts throughout the year. If you find a spot you really love, be sure to give it a follow.
And remember: If you share your Burger Week experience using the hashtag #FlyerBurgerWeek on Twitter and Instagram, you’ll be entered into a contest for the chance to win some really great prizes.
Memphis Flyer Burger Week is one of the many perks to living in Memphis. For more information on participating restaurants and other details, keep your browser pointed to the Memphis Flyer Burger Week website.
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]]>The post Best cocktail bars in Memphis appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>Lucky for you, there are a lot of places in Memphis where you can sit down to an expertly prepared boozy beverage. Whether you’re looking for a local watering hole or an upscale establishment, here’s a list of some of the best cocktail spots in Memphis:
Loflin Yard
Located in a renovated space that used to be home to a lock-and-key company, this cozy bar serves up barrel-aged drinks carefully crafted from classic recipes. Definitely check out the Tennessee old-fashioned! Although the indoor portion of Loflin Yard is tiny, there’s an expansive outdoor seating area complete with a massive covered patio that overlooks a man-made waterfall running into the Gayoso Bayou, complete with cornhole, giant Jenga, and plenty of other outdoor games.
The Cove Cocktail and Oyster Bar
The Cove Cocktail and Oyster Bar is a nautical-themed establishment with mixed drinks to match—and if you had any doubts about the Cove’s commitment to its aesthetic, look no further than the bar itself, which is shaped like a ship. A highlight of the menu is The Skull & Crossbones, made with Gosling’s rum, sweet vermouth, bitters and a lemon twist. Be sure to order up a half-dozen oysters from the kitchen and stick around for live music.
Alchemy Memphis
The practice after which Alchemy is named fell by the wayside a while ago, but this sleek spot in the Cooper-Young neighborhood keeps its spirit alive by transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary cocktails with fresh herbs and homemade syrups. Hit up this hot spot on weekdays between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. for a half-off happy-hour deal.
Maximo’s on Broad
Nestled between a coffee shop and a tattoo parlor on Broad Ave., Maximo’s on Broad effortlessly strikes a balance between chic and casual. The Southern Charmer (bourbon, pecan liqueur and basil) is one of our favorite cocktails at this trendy destination, but don’t sleep on the extensive wine selection or the tapas menu with small and large plates ideal for sharing. Maximo’s is a great place to enjoy a night out with a group of friends.
Bar DKDC
The word “funky” gets thrown around a lot in descriptions of Bar DKDC, and it’s a hard adjective to argue with. This bar serves cocktails in mason jars, cooks up extraordinary global street food, hosts live soul music and invites guests to huddle up in the vintage photo booth. Try the Blue Suede ‘Tini made with Stoli blueberry, St. Germain and lime juice.
Blind Bear Speakeasy
Downtown’s Blind Bear Speakeasy is a dimly lit, Roaring ‘20s-inspired joint that serves up Southern pub grub alongside some of the best cocktails in town. Try the Moonshine Tea (American Born Dixie Sweet Tea Moonshine, muddled lemon, soda and sour) or drop by during weekend brunch for crawfish mac ‘n’ cheese and a truly stellar Bloody Mary.
Memphis may be famous for its music venues, but it’s no slouch when it comes to cocktail bars either. Next time you visit Memphis, be sure to stop by one of these establishments for a tasty mixed drink.
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]]>The post Here’s a list of Memphis fast food restaurants appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>And if you live in Memphis, you have access to some seriously next-level fast-food restaurants. Here are some of the best places to grab a quick bite in Memphis:
Cook Out
With three locations in Memphis and many more scattered throughout the South, Cook Out is famous for its on-the-go drive-through barbecue. Is it the best barbecue in Memphis? Of course not. But is it good? You bet. The menu also includes hamburgers, hot dogs and onion rings, as well as more than 40 milkshake flavors.
Jack Pirtle’s Chicken
Home-grown fast-food chain Jack Pirtle’s Chicken is known for its fried chicken, chicken wings, mashed potatoes and gravy. Be sure to get a jug of this local favorite’s famous sweet tea to wash everything down! With eight locations around town, Jack Pirtle’s has been beloved by Memphians since 1957, and the fact that nobody from outside Memphis has ever heard of it means there’s all the more for us!
Five Guys
There’s a reason Five Guys has been blowing up in the last few years—its fare doesn’t look or taste like fast food. The thick, juicy burgers (each with as many free toppings as you want) served with a heaping portion of fresh-cut fries are about as good as it gets in the realm of on-the-go dining.
Hook Fish & Chicken
You might raise an eyebrow at the concept of fast-food seafood, but Hook Fish & Chicken will put any naysayer’s mind at ease. With options ranging from fried catfish to grouper fillets, Hook is miles ahead of the competition. And if you’re not really a seafood person, don’t despair: It serves chicken, too.
Sai Fast Foods
This Winchester Road establishment is one of the best spots in Memphis for Indian food, fast or otherwise. The goat biryani is a perennial favorite at Sai Fast Foods, as are the myriad vegetarian options—a rare find in the fast food world.
Church’s Chicken
With several locations in the Memphis area, Church’s Chicken is on a whole other level. Its hand-battered fried chicken comes with an assortment of sides, including fried okra, corn on the cob, baked mac ‘n’ cheese, mashed potatoes and honey-butter biscuits.
Krystal
Atlanta-based Krystal has 10 locations scattered in and around Memphis, and we’re glad it does. Before you get confused, know that although this chain is renowned for its sliders, they’re called “Krystals” on the menu. With that said, you can get the Original Krystal, the Cheese Krystal, the Bacon Cheese Krystal… You know what, just get a Krystal Sackfull—that’s a dozen sliders—and pretend you’re going to share them, even though you totally won’t.
Firehouse Subs
With locations everywhere from Union Ave. to Germantown, Firehouse Subs offers everything you expect to find at a sub shop, including but in no way limited to hot subs, cold subs, ham, turkey, roast beef, pastrami and corned beef. It’s your basic hoagie outfit, and there ain’t nothin’ in the world wrong with that.
If you need a great meal in a hurry, you’ve come to the right place. These fast-food restaurants in Memphis are so good, you might even forget they’re serving fast food.
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]]>The post In need of romantic dinner ideas in Memphis? We have your back! appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>Italian cuisine, classic Southern fare, craft beer, high-end cocktails… culinary options abound in Memphis. If you’re planning a romantic night out on the town, these are our favorite places in the city to get dinner for two!
Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen
With an elegant yet rustic atmosphere and a unique, modern take on classic Italian cooking, Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen is a perfect spot for a dinner date. Using fresh ingredients that change with seasons, this restaurant melds traditional Italian concepts with a distinctive Southern influence, producing amazing dishes like soft-shell crab served with basil, lemon, peppers, bacon and baby red potatoes.
The Beauty Shop
This quirky eatery in the Cooper-Young neighborhood of Midtown Memphis was once actually a beauty shop. In fact, it still feels like one—hooded Belvedere hair dryers and all. It also serves some really delectable food, whether you’re on a brunch day-date or looking for a fun dinner-and-cocktails spot. The Bloody Mary and eggs Sardou combo is a brunch favorite, and the cast-iron-roasted whole fish with grilled sweet corn, cotija, aioli and cayenne salt is a highlight of the dinner menu.
Alchemy Memphis
A strong case can be made for Alchemy Memphis being the purveyor of the best cocktails in town, and the bartenders here concoct unique, sophisticated mixed drinks in a romantic, dimly lit setting. It’s hard to take a wrong turn on the cocktail menu, but we’re especially fond of the Floating Butterfly’s charred rosemary bitters and pomegranate shaken with Wheatley vodka and fresh lime juice. Alchemy also serves shareable small plates like truffle deviled eggs with smoked salmon and crispy capers.
The Majestic Grille
Located in the heart of Downtown Memphis, The Majestic Grille is a modern American steakhouse with a fun 1940s-inspired ambiance. Built in 1913, the venue served as a silent movie house for many years, and it still hosts classic movies, dance shows, art performances and music to this day. Meanwhile, the kitchen turns out outstanding New York strip steaks, filet mignon and bone-in rib eye, plus some delicious seafood options.
Two Vegan Sistas
Here’s one for all you veggie lovers! Offering a plant-based take on American comfort food, Two Vegan Sistas is a great place for a meal with your health-conscious, planet-conscious significant other. The menu changes depending on what’s seasonally available, but mainstays like the cashew burger and veggie lasagna are always excellent. Oh, and there’s vegan ice cream. It’s amazing.
Alston Restaurant
Alston Restaurant has everything you need for a romantic evening: a fun, cozy atmosphere, amazing cocktails and a menu packed with memorable Southern fusion dishes that capture the flavor of the season, from New Orleans-inspired shrimp beignets to wild mushroom linguine. You simply can’t go wrong at this Macon Road mainstay.
Felicia Suzanne’s
For fine dining in a casual atmosphere, head to Felicia Suzanne’s, which specializes in seasonal New American cuisine with a Southern twist. The restaurant sits right along the historic Main Street Trolley Line and is within walking distance of Beale Street, offering a beautiful outdoor patio as well as a cozy indoor dining room. Choose from appetizers like fresh Gulf oysters and caramelized onion tart before moving on to roasted duck with handmade potato dumplings or a similarly irresistible entree.
When it’s date night in Memphis, you have a lot of restaurants to choose from—and, for the record, there wasn’t enough room to list every single one we love. Simply put, if you’re looking for a romantic evening, you’ll never run out of options in Memphis!
For more amazing Memphis content, check out Choose901!
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]]>The post Memphis in May is almost over – here’s what’s left! appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>This year’s festival has already been one to remember, filled with amazing moments, music, meals and memories. Although the month of May is halfway done (if you can even believe it), there are still some events to look forward to!
901Fest
In its third year, the 901Fest is back bigger than ever! the festival hits Tom Lee Park on May 26 and promises to be a fun-filled celebration of all things Memphis—Memphis food, Memphis music, Memphis merchandise and more. Get ready for amazing music and fun games like the first 901Fest Cornhole Tournament! The gates open at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 26. Click here to get tickets, and be sure to check out this recap of last year’s 901Fest!
Photo Credit: 901Fest Facebook
The Great American Half Marathon & 5K
Since its inception in 2016, The Great American Half Marathon & 5K has quickly become a beloved Memphis event. Runners from around the country pound the pavement alongside locals of varying skill levels while the less athletically inclined cheer them on. Every participant gets a branded T-shirt, and all who make it to the finish line will receive a medal. Did we mention that this event takes place on the banks of the Mississippi? Talk about a picturesque backdrop.
If you live here, work here or are just visiting these parts, be sure to drop by the Memphis in May International Festival before the calendar flips.
Photo Credit: Great American River Run Half Marathon & 5K Facebook
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]]>The post Memphis music events are here, check out the 2018 901Fest! appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>901Fest 2018
After a successful 2017 festival, we couldn’t be happier to welcome back 901Fest! Now in its third year, the festival hits Tom Lee Park on May 26 and promises to be a fun-filled celebration of all things Memphis—Memphis food, Memphis music, Memphis merchandise and more.
Live music
Given that Memphis is the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, any celebration in these parts wouldn’t be a real Memphis party without great music. Rest assured, 901Fest will deliver the goods in the form of an incredible lineup of home-grown talent performing on multiple stages. This year’s performers include hip-hop duo 8Ball & MJG, the bluesy five-piece Southern Avenue Band, IHeartMemphis, the Mighty Souls Brass Band and more. So no need to type “concerts near me,” come to the event!
Fun and games
Get ready for the first 901Fest Cornhole Tournament, as well as a chance to bounce around inside a Knockerball (it’s as much fun to watch as it is to do). Don’t miss the air show above the Mississippi River followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
Dozens of food trucks will be on location to offer a wide variety of Memphis staples, from Johnson’s BBQ and Shuck’s Grilled Corn to Polar Tropical Shaved Ice and Memphis Soft Serve. Don’t forget to mingle with the local artists and craftspeople who’ll be on hand with a tremendous variety of unique handmade items. Check out the full vendor list here.
Get ready for 901Fest
The gates open at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 26, which is coming up quick—do you have your tickets yet? If not, they’re available now, and admission is free for participants of the Great American River Run taking place earlier in the day. Click here to get tickets, and be sure to check out this recap of last year’s 901Fest!
901Fest marks the beginning of summer in Memphis, and we can hardly wait. What’s more, it’s the final music event of Memphis in May, a month-long celebration of all things Memphis. Join us for the festivities, then stick around for the rest of this fun-filled season!
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]]>Fast-forward to the present time, when Memphis is experiencing a local brewery renaissance of sorts. Every Memphian has their favorite, but there’s one thing we all agree on: Keeping it local is the hottest trend of all. With that in mind, here are seven local breweries you need to check out:
Ghost River Brewing Company & Tap Room
Any brewer will tell you it all starts with the water, so it’s no surprise that our first craft brewery relies on that clean drinking water for which Memphis is so renowned. Before the water reaches Ghost River Brewing, it trickles down the Wolf River, along the Ghost River and through the Memphis Sands Aquifer, which leaves it soft, mineral-free and perfect for brewing.
High Cotton Brewing Company
The High Cotton Brewing Company is both laid-back and cutting-edge, so it makes perfect sense that High Cotton’s four founders set up shop in the Edge District. If you’re a fan of Belgians and dark beers, visit HCBC’s taproom just down the street from historic Sun Studios to find 10 select brews always on tap.
Boscos Squared Brewing Company
This anchor of Overton Square eschews the typical craft beer taproom feel for an upscale atmosphere. While Boscos Squared’s proximity to the Theater District makes it the perfect choice for a pre-show beer, its award-winning Flaming Stone brew alone is worth the trip. What’s more, the on-site restaurant is a hot spot for Sunday brunch.
Memphis Made Brewing Company
Although Memphis Made Brewing specializes in seasonal brews, you’ll find its Lucid Kolsch on tap year-round. More good news: Lucid Kolsch pairs well with fare from just about any of the food trucks that park outside MMB’s warehouse location in the Cooper-Young neighborhood.
Wiseacre Brewery
Wiseacre is known for two things: its corrugated metal building and its commitment to quality brewing. Before launching Wiseacre, the Bartosch brothers traveled the nation, gleaning brewing secrets from all over. Tiny Bomb, one of their year-round offerings, is a local legend.
Meddlesome Brewery
Can you believe it? The craft beer scene in Memphis is old enough now to have started spawning second-generation locations. Brewers from Boscos and nearby Jackson-based Rock N Dough Pizza came together to form Meddlesome Brewing, a relative newcomer that’s already making waves.
Crosstown Brewing Company
Crosstown Brewing Company is the other new kid on the block. Having taken up residence in the old abandoned Sears distribution center on the Crosstown Concourse, Crosstown Brewing bills itself as “Scrappy, quirky and driven by a passion to build something amazing.”
The craft beer scene in Memphis is definitely continuing the traditions put in place by those who came before! To keep your finger on the pulse of the burgeoning Memphis brewing scene, check out the Memphis Craft Beer website, and head here for more things Memphis.
For Memphis travel tips, visit Memphis Travel!
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]]>The post Check out the brewery that’s been crowned the best beer in Memphis! appeared first on We Are Memphis.
]]>Shocking the world
The honor was something of a surprise for Richie EsQuivel and Ben Pugh, owners of Meddlesome Brewing Company. Meddlesome has only been on the Memphis brewery scene for a little over a year, though its owners are no strangers to the Bluff City’s beer revolution. EsQuivel came up with Boscos Brewing Company—Memphis’s first brewpub—while Pugh cut his teeth as a brewer at Rock ‘n Dough Pizza and Brew Company out of Jackson.
“It’s taken us aback, honestly,” said Pugh. “Once we saw we’d made it to the finals, we were pumped we’d even made it that far.”
Meddlesome’s Memphis roots
Meddlesome Brewing calls the Memphis suburb of Cordova home, which is not far from the Shelby Farms dog park. Even though the company has only been around a short time, the 201 Hoplar IPA obviously hit the right note with fans, driving it to the top of the fan-voted honor.
EsQuivel and Pugh cite their hometown as a large influence on what they do, noting that they love to create beers they feel embody Memphis: strong, tenacious and unforgettable.
With the opening of Meddlesome Brewing and the other new kid on the block, Crosstown, there is now a grand total of seven independent brewers on the Memphis craft beer scene. It’s a movement that has been steadily gaining momentum since 2013.
At its heart, Meddlesome Brewing lives by a very simple philosophy when creating its beers: “Never fear meddling with convention in search of something greater,” its website declares. And the knowledgeable beer-drinkers of the Bluff City have spoken in enthusiastic agreement.
Taking home the crown
This year’s King of Beers takes inspiration from the great IPAs of the West Coast. It’s not over-the-top bitter upon the first sip, and its slightly fruity flavor comes in to finish an enjoyable experience. It’s brewed with Chinook and Columbus hops for a combination that delivers a brew bursting with resin, pine, ripe pineapple and grapefruit flavors.
The Flyer’s bracket challenge was a highly scientific poll, breaking beers into four categories in the early rounds. Light beers, dark beers, IPAs and seasonals all competed against their brethren until the final four, at which point 201 Hoplar took down Wiseacre Brewing’s Tiny Bomb before besting another Wiseacre offering, Astronaut Status.
No matter the outcome of the annual competition, there’s a definite sense of family developing in the burgeoning Memphis craft beer scene—one that’s sure to produce a number of deserving champions in King of Beer Brackets to come.
For more things Memphis, click here!
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]]>Memphis Black Restaurant Week Sets Dates
This year’s week is March 5 through March 11. For those curious about exploring the restaurant culture of Memphis, it represents a roadmap through some of the most revered establishments in town.
Daniels created Memphis Black Restaurant Week after discussion with local black-owned restaurants seemed to point towards one thing. While many enjoyed a good word-of-mouth reputation around town, they lacked the marketing resources and acumen to really effectively market their business.
To that end, Daniels perceived a need. By themselves, they couldn’t invest much in marketing to really call attention to themselves. Together, however, their shared resources allowed them to more aggressively market themselves collectively under the Black Restaurant Week banner.
2018 Lineup
- HM Dessert Lounge
- The Office Uptown
- Scoops Parlor
- Two Vegan Sisters
- Chef Tam’s Underground Cafe
- G Alston
- Lenny ‘s Subs
- Slice of Soul Pizza Lounge
- Laura’s Kitchen
- A&R BBQ
- The Waffle Iron
Making a Difference for the Memphis Community
In its maiden voyage, Daniels didn’t expect a big financial gain from her efforts, instead simply focusing on teaching the business owners how to manage their marketing budgets most effectively. To her surprise, it was a huge success, increasing profits for the restaurants a total of $85k for the week. The restaurants involved this year will again enjoy a great level of exposure, and for those new restaurants, it will represent a chance to make a good first impression. All told, Daniels’ Black Restaurant Week has featured 22 restaurants and accounted for an increase in sales of $260k for those participating, and most importantly, the creation of 90 new jobs.
For more information on Memphis Black Restaurant Week, check this out!
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]]>Cover photo credit: Old Dominick Distillery Instagram
What makes Old Dominick Distillery so special?
The discovery of an old bottle of Old Dominick Toddy inspired Chris and Alex to open Old Dominick Distillery in 2016. The building, which is reminiscent of times long past, has vintage furnishings that will take you back to the old days before Prohibition, when whiskey flowed like water and no one was a stranger. The first bottle of Old Dominick whiskey produced in the new distillery was the first that was legally produced in the state since the end of Prohibition. The rich taste of the whiskey and the rich history of the Canale family blend together to make to make Old Dominick one of the most unique distilleries in Tennessee.
Take a tour
Old Dominick Distillery offers tours of the distillery on a regular basis. Each tour gives you an inside look as to how the spirits are produced and the lengths to which the company goes to ensure that each batch of their booze is of the highest possible quality. On days that the distillery hosts a private event, the last tour normally starts at 2 p.m.
Dinner? Drinks? Late-night adventures with friends?
If you want to go out on the town and spend time in one of the most unique bars in all of Memphis, Old Dominick is the place for you. You can host a private event or go on a night when it’s open to the public. Have fun! Cut loose and enjoy a little bit of history with a couple of shots of genuine Tennessee whiskey.
When you visit Old Dominick Distillery, you are taking a step back into history. The Canale family and the city of Memphis have been through thick and thin together, and both have come out shining. If you’re visiting the Memphis area, stop by and “Share a Sip of Pure Memphis” with the staff of Old Dominick Distillery. Cheers!!
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