A Memphis Lover's Memphis Faves: My Ultimate Guide to My Favorite Memphis Restaurants, Sites and Activities
If there’s one thing I love, it’s showing off the incredible city of Memphis! Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or you’re a local looking to rediscover the city, there’s always something new to explore. Over the years, I’ve compiled countless recommendations for everything from the best coffee spots to anniversary-worthy dinners and must-see cultural landmarks. It’s about time I put them all in one place. So, here’s my ultimate guide to all the things I love about Memphis (you can also check out my YouTube video to hear me chat a bit more about my favs!)
Where to Stay
A boutique hotel in the South Main Arts District with trendy rooms and an on-site coffee shop, Vice & Virtue. Perfect for a modern, cozy stay in a prime location.
Located downtown, this Hilton property offers a sleek, contemporary vibe with complimentary bikes for exploring the city and a rooftop lounge for evening cocktails.
This riverside gem blends modern style with a nod to Memphis culture. Don’t miss their full-service café and bar, Talk Shop.
This reimagined train station in South Main boasts stylish rooms, the Eight & Sand bar, and a location steps away from all the action.
A chic boutique hotel in Midtown’s Overton Square, offering stylish rooms, vibrant décor, and a rooftop bar, Tiger & Peacock, with stunning Midtown views.
Coffee Breaks
Located inside the lobby of the Arrive Hotel (my fave), offering great coffee and even better food items with homemade breads and pastries. Get the yogurt and granola bowl and the sourdough toast with jam!
A dreamy coffee shop in the Pinch District, offering amazing seasonal drinks, pastries, and a cozy spot to work or relax.
A must-visit coffee stand inside of 387 South Main serving rich, locally roasted brews at rotating locations around Memphis.
Cxffeeblack Anti Gentrification Coffee Club
This unique coffee spot in North Memphis is home base to people that feel like family! Everything they do from sourcing to roasting is rooted in celebrating Black culture and coffee origins. Their “Guji Mane” roast is a must-try!
Restaurants to Love
Catherine & Mary’s
Italian-inspired Southern dishes in the heart of downtown. Their handmade pastas and elevated cocktails are perfect for a date night, especially their happy hour right before a show at the Orpheum, that’s just steps away!
Good Fortune Co.
A South Main favorite with incredible ramen and craft cocktails in a vibrant, modern space. I can’t decide which I love more, their wings or their playlist!
Beauty Shop
A Cooper-Young classic that serves eclectic dishes in a retro-chic atmosphere. Yes, it’s in a former beauty salon, and yes, it’s fabulous.
Central BBQ
The only BBQ restaurant on this list and it’s NOT for the BBQ! Yes, Memphis is world famous for its BBQ, but most of us Memphians eat it at home! This city staple made my list for it’s WINGS! This is going to start a war amongst my fellow neighbors, but along with the frequently named wing spots that we all love, Central BBQ is a must for visitors, especially the downtown location that’s conveniently behind the National Civel Rights Museum. Pro tip: Morning at the museum, Central for lunch.
The Liquor Store
A retro diner-meets-tropical-bar on Broad Avenue serving comfort food with a Latin twist.
Sage
A Black-owned restaurant downtown known for its innovative takes on classic Southern dishes, like Lobster Rasta Pasta, but I’m a sucker for their Southern Egg Rolls!!!
JEM Dining
An exclusive, intimate dining experience offering multi-course meals. Reservations are essential!
Amelia Gene’s
An upscale, but welcoming restaurant serving fresh, Southern-inspired comfort food with a creative twist. Number one anniversary dinner rec! Vibes and service are superb.
Itta Bena
Very much an “if you know, you know” city gem. Tucked above B.B. King’s Blues Club, this hidden gem offers upscale dining with a menu full of Southern classics and a stunning view of Beale Street. Moody. Sexy. Delicious all around.
Archive Bistro
A chic eatery located inside the Napoleon Hotel serving a mix of classic and innovative dishes, perfect for brunch or a casual dinner.
Biscuits and Jams
A breakfast and brunch hotspot based in the Indigo Hotel known for its fluffy biscuits, hearty Southern fare, and fun atmosphere.
Arcade
The oldest café in Memphis and best sweet potato pancakes in town! This iconic diner is right across the street from Central Station Hotel and serves up delicious breakfast all day and classic Southern dishes in a retro setting.
The Garden Brunch
A beautiful spot for brunch with an indulgent menu, vibrant atmosphere, and gorgeous garden-inspired décor. Only open on weekends, but BEST Steak and eggs you’ll ever have in your life!
Slider Inn
Known for its juicy sliders, laid-back vibe, and killer cocktails, this spot is perfect for a casual night out with friends. One my favorite patios during warmer months. Don’t leave without trying the Jameson Slushie!
Babalu
A tapas-style restaurant in Overton Square (midtown) serving inventive Latin-inspired dishes, tacos, and handcrafted margaritas.
Porch and Parlor
Top 5 of my all-time favs! An upscale steakhouse in Overton Square, perfect for special occasions or date night, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients.
Bog and Barley
An Irish-inspired gastropub offering elevated pub fare, hearty drinks, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Henhouse
A charming eatery serving farm-to-table dishes, fresh baked goods, and delicious coffee.
Soulfish
A go-to spot for fresh, Southern-style comfort food, including fried catfish, hush puppies, and gumbo.
Belle Meade Social
An elegant dining experience featuring refined Southern dishes and a thoughtfully curated wine list.
Tucked away but perfect for those days you’re out East! Perch 74 is owned and run by the chef that I’ve had cater my Thanksgiving and Christmas for the last two years, so I vouch for this one HEAVY! If you’re in the mood for a breakfast or lunch that feels like somebody loves you, go here!
Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen
A fine-dining spot blending Italian tradition with Southern flair, serving unforgettable dishes in a beautiful setting.
Park and Cherry
A café located inside the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, serving light bites, sandwiches, and desserts in a serene atmosphere.
Moondance
A stylish, contemporary restaurant with a diverse menu of creative dishes, perfect for a dinner with friends or family.
Coastal Fish
Seafood lovers rejoice! Located on one of the lakes in Shelby Farms Park, this spot offers fresh, delicious coastal-inspired dishes with a Southern twist.
Southern Social
An upscale restaurant in Germantown, serving classic Southern dishes with a modern, refined touch.
Sweet Treats
A chic patisserie in Overton Square serving macarons, cakes, and a dreamy afternoon tea experience.
Delicious homemade ice cream and handcrafted bubble tea make this shop on Broad Avenue a favorite for a quick pick-me-up.
Shopping & Local Finds
A modern shop on Broad Avenue with curated gifts, home goods, and locally made products. It’s also has a cool coffee shop attached!
A floral design studio offering stunning arrangements, unique plants and cute gifts in Midtown.
A shop that feels like a treasure hunt, offering a mix of home décor, jewelry, and gifts.
Arts & Culture
Located at the Lorraine Motel, this museum is a powerful, immersive journey through civil rights history.
Clayborn Temple / I AM A MAN Plaza
An iconic landmark of the 1968 Sanitation Workers Strike. The “I AM A MAN” sculpture is both beautiful and deeply moving.
A must-see tribute to the legacy of soul music, featuring iconic artifacts and interactive exhibits in the original site of Stax Records.
Step into the legendary recording studio where Al Green, Ann Peebles, and other greats recorded timeless hits. Tours offer a fascinating glimpse into music history.
Memphis’s largest art museum, showcasing works from around the world. It’s an essential stop for any art lover.
This East Memphis gem combines art exhibits with stunning, serene gardens.
Known as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, this studio is where Elvis, Johnny Cash, and others recorded hits.
One of my favorite contemporary art galleries located in the Edge District, just outside of downtown, focusing on artists based in and connected to the regional South.
A vibrant and bold gallery showcasing unique, unconventional, and thought-provoking art that celebrates individuality and creativity, located in the Edge District.
Art gallery representing emerging and mid-career artists from Africa and its Diaspora to help increase opportunities for artists to introduce their artwork to new geographies.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Catch a Memphis Grizzlies game or a concert at this bustling downtown arena.
Cheer on the Memphis Redbirds (baseball) or 901 FC (soccer) while enjoying a vibrant game-day atmosphere.
A historic venue hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and family-friendly performances. Its vintage charm and grand architecture make every visit magical.
This rooftop bar at The Memphian Hotel in Overton Square offers stunning views, creative cocktails, and chic vibes.
A hidden gem for live music lovers, featuring local artists and a laid-back atmosphere. Go meet the best bartenders in the city!
A vibey cocktail bar in the heart of Midtown, offering inventive drinks and an intimate, stylish atmosphere perfect for a night out. Meet me there on Sundays for karaoke!
Located in Central Station Hotel, this lively cocktail bar features expertly crafted drinks and a curated vinyl soundtrack that sets the perfect vibe.
Outdoor Adventures
Recently redesigned, this riverfront park offers stunning views of the Mississippi and plenty of walking trails.
This revitalized area is full of street art, galleries, shops, and great food. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.
One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., offering bike trails, paddle boats, a massive playground (the Woodland Discovery Playground), and even a herd of buffalo.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Located in Overton Park, the Memphis Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals and features exciting exhibits like Teton Trek and Zambezi River Hippo Camp. It’s a perfect outing for families!
Children’s Museum of Memphis (CMOM)
An interactive museum packed with hands-on exhibits, including a kid-sized grocery store, an airplane cockpit, and an outdoor splash park.
A fun and educational experience where kids can learn about fire safety, explore a firetruck, and enjoy interactive exhibits.
My Big Backyard at Memphis Botanic Garden
A whimsical outdoor play space filled with treehouses, splash pads, and gardens designed to spark kids’ imagination.
Explore Memphis history, science exhibits, and the CTI Giant IMAX Theater. Kids will love the planetarium and hands-on activities.
Whether you’re exploring Memphis for the first time or you’ve lived here your whole life, there’s always something special to uncover. I hope this guide inspires your next adventure in the 901! What’s your favorite spot in Memphis? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking for new places to check out, and hopefully, add to this list!