Iris

Restaurant Iris has long been a staple in Memphis's dining scene, blending Southern and French-Creole flavors. Signature dishes like the fried oyster-stuffed New York Strip nod to its roots, while newer offerings, such as lobster crepes and bouillabaisse, show how the menu keeps evolving. A spacious bar area offers a more laid-back vibe, serving up smoked duck wings, seafood po' boys, and other easygoing bites.

Information

address4550 Poplar Avenue, Memphis
openingHoursMon–Sat 11am–8:30pm, Sun closed
phone+1 901 590 2828
websiteVisit website
facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/RestaurantIris/

Central BBQ

In a city that takes barbecue seriously, Central BBQ has earned its spot among the best. Locals swear by the pulled pork sandwiches, dry-rub ribs, and hot wings, all slow-smoked to perfection. The sides—like mac and cheese and house-made chips—are just as good. Expect a line, but don’t worry—it moves fast, and the food is always worth the wait.

Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous

Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous has been a Memphis institution for decades, famous for its Greek-inspired dry rub ribs cooked over charcoal. What started as a basement sandwich shop in the 1940s has become a must-visit spot for barbecue lovers. The ribs hit the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy, and the no-frills, old-school atmosphere complements to the experience.

Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken might have expanded across the country, but its heart is still in Memphis. Locals will send you here first if you’re craving crispy, spicy, just-right fried chicken. The no-frills setup keeps the focus on the food—perfectly golden chicken with a slow-building heat, paired with classic Southern sides like baked beans, slaw, and mac and cheese.

The Beauty Shop

The Beauty Shop keeps a little of its past life alive—this quirky Midtown spot was once a salon where Priscilla Presley got her hair done, and you’ll still find vintage hair-dryer chairs at some tables. The menu leans creative, blending New American flavors with global influences, from watermelon and wings to steak frites with chimichurri. It’s a go-to for brunch, but reservations fill up fast, so plan ahead.

Hog & Hominy

Hog & Hominy is where Southern cooking meets Italian comfort food, and it just works. The wood-fired pizzas are a standout, but don’t sleep on the house-made pastas or small plates like crispy pork belly and sweet corn agnolotti. Chefs Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman know their way around a kitchen, and this spot is one of their most popular for a reason.

Alcenia's

Alcenia’s owner Betty Joyce "B.J." Chester-Tamayo treats every guest like family, often greeting them with a hug. The menu is pure soul food, with fried chicken, catfish, cornbread, and candied yams stealing the show. Be sure to also try the Ghetto-Aid—a Kool-Aid sugar rush that’s part of the experience.

Soul Fish Cafe

Soul Fish Cafe keeps it simple, serving up some of the best po’ boys in town alongside fried catfish, tacos, and other Southern staples. It’s a go-to for casual, comforting seafood, with generous portions and solid desserts to round things out. You’ll find locations in Midtown, East Memphis, and Germantown.