Memphis

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.

Los Comales Mexican Bar & Grill keeps things simple—good portions, solid Tex-Mex, and plenty of margaritas to go around. Fajitas, burritos, and enchiladas are staples, but the real stars are the tacos and house-made salsas, a favorite among regulars.

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.

Finding vegan options in a city known for barbecue isn’t always easy, but Imagine Vegan Cafe makes sure no one misses out. This family-run spot serves up plant-based versions of Memphis favorites—think pulled "pork" sandwiches, dry rub "ribs," and crispy fried "chicken."