Memphis December 2022

CEO AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF anna traverse fogle

EXECUTIVE EDITOR michael finger

MANAGING EDITOR frank murtaugh

SENIOR EDITORS samuel x. cicci, shara clark, jon w. sparks, bruce vanwyngarden

ASSOCIATE EDITOR abigail morici

EDITORIAL INTERN izzy wollfarth

CONTRIBUTORS sharon brown, michael donahue, alex greene, vance lauderdale, chris mccoy, martha park, aimee stiegemeyer 4

EDITOR samuel x. cicci SENIOR EDITOR jon w. sparks 4

CREATIVE DIRECTOR brian groppe ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR christopher myers

GRAPHIC DESIGNER neil williams

PHOTOGRAPHERS sharon brown, justin fox burks, samuel x. cicci, michael donahue, mike ehrmann / nbae via getty images, anna traverse fogle, larry kuzniewski, jon w. sparks, joe murphy / nbae via getty images, john pickle, bruce vanwyngarden

ILLUSTRATOR martha park 4

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE sloane patteson taylor ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES kelli dewitt, chip googe, michelle musolf, hailey thomas

by contemporary media, inc. memphis, tennessee 901-521-9000 p

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One Weird Walk

Atangle of twenty-somethings lounges on a sandy beach blanket, White Claws in hand. A father and son beep-beep along the sand, guided by a metal detector. Heads down, beaks out, they remind me of a pair of sandpipers. A dog frolics in pursuit of a frisbee. A man combs the shore, trash bag in hand, collecting the detritus of others’ frivolity.

At the Florida coast, these characters would all be right at home. Except this isn’t Destin: We’re on the Arkansas side of the Mississippi River, gazing across the choked channels at the Memphis skyline.

The river is low. Very low. Historically low. Drought conditions upriver have parched the waterway that is responsible for moving, among other freight, 60 percent or more of the nation’s soybeans and corn bound for export. No one knows when the river will rise again; for now, barge traffic is confined to a central channel, while smaller boats are stuck, mired in mud. Over on McKellar Lake, the Diamond Lady — a formerly sunken casino riverboat — has risen from her watery grave, to the delight of urban explorers.

The day my (very game) husband and I decide to see some of this for ourselves, the sky is bright and blue, and even in late fall, we quickly regret wearing jackets. We park on the Arkansas side of Big River Crossing and then hike below the bridges (Harahan, Memphis-Arkansas, and Frisco) until we find water. Our dog, Lily Bear, is clearly wondering what her humans are up to — this is one

weird walk. When we reach the sand, though — sand that should be underwater — she realizes we’ve found prime romping territory, and starts leaping in high circles, then sniffing the lapping water. Our footprints interrupt the sand’s natural patterns; it’s wrinkled and grooved as an elephant’s skin. We hoist long, smooth staffs of driftwood; we weave through tree trunks lined up in the silty soil like toy soldiers to keep a determined river from the fields nearby. It is at once very unsettling (we shouldn’t be able to stroll where the river flows) and very fun (Lily Bear’s first beach day!). How singularly human: to witness something as both a sign of devastation — and an entertaining way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

I’ve been trained, as most native Memphians are trained, to fear the Mississippi River. The way we talk about it, you would think dangling a single toe into the water is tantamount to begging the Big Muddy to drag you down to New Orleans. But this fall, we’ve been reminded that we can little afford to take the river — and the natural world it represents — for granted.

Rice Law

For three generations, the Rices have handled divorce and family law matters in Memphis and across Tennessee. Their co-authored book, “The Complete Guide to Divorce Practice,” published by the American Bar Association, is recognized across the country as the national standard. After rigorous examination, contested case reviews, and recommendations from judges and fellow attorneys, both of the Rices are Board Certified in Family Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

The Rices bring over 75 years of experience combined with up-to-date technology, including 128 bit encryption of client information and communication. Rice Law handles your family law matter with depth of experience including a team of nationally recognized attorneys and Advanced Certified Paralegals. Rice Law’s Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 31 listed mediators provide valuable insight into resolving your matter quickly.

Whether you find yourself dealing with divorce, mediation, custody, child support, domestic violence or any other matter involving family law,

For more information on divorce, visit aboutdivorce.com or scan below.

To talk to a lawyer about divorce, call 901-526-6701.

Brother Juniper’s

It’s breakfast only at this tiny restaurant, whose portions are anything but.

BY MICHAEL DONAHUE

Brother Juniper’s is famous for its breakfasts. And large portions.

at harkens back to the restaurant’s namesake, Brother Juniper, says Patrick Koplin. He and his wife, Darya, own and operate the iconic restaurant near the University of Memphis. Patrick’s sister, Sarah Elliott, another owner, also has operated the restaurant. And founder Jonathan Koplin and his wife, Pauline, are still owners as well.

today,” says Patrick. “Like the spanakopita omelet.”

In 1999, Worsham asked Jonathan to take over the Memphis Brother Juniper’s. “[Worsham] knew he ran the one in San Francisco and that he cooked. He was going to close down the one in Memphis.”

Jonathan packed up his family and moved to Memphis. “ is was the last Brother Juniper’s open. All the others had closed. He wanted to keep this alive and going.”

His father shortened the name to “Brother Juniper’s,” but he kept just about everything else the same.Many of the original recipes were developed by the various Brother Juniper’s owners around the country. “All these guys came up with them some 40 years ago,” says Patrick, “when they started these Brother Juniper’s. I think there were six at one time.”

e Koplin family contributed two-thirds of the new recipes. “Each family member added its own contributions to the menu.”

Ray. e latter is a feat: home fries, several cheeses, bacon, portabella mushrooms, green onions, and more.

In 2008, Jonathan expanded Brother Juniper’s. He took over the adjoining space, which had been a music store and a pottery studio. e entrance was moved to the new space.

At one point, Jonathan also rented the old McLaurine’s Bakery on South Highland.“Before they closed that down and demolished it, my dad started an apprenticeship program teaching at-risk youth how to bake bread,” says Patrick. “We called it ‘Juniper Bakery.’ He was able to do it for a few years until the Atkins Diet came out. Everyone stopped eating bread.”

“Brother Juniper was the cook for St. Francis of Assisi, the Italian monk from the thirteenth century,” Patrick says. “He was very generous. He had a reputation for being able to make delicious meals. e Franciscan monks didn’t have a lot. ey were poor. But he was always able to make a delicious meal out of what they had.”

Brother Juniper became the namesake for a missionary outreach program that opened in several cities (such as Boston, Denver, and Atlanta) in the U.S during the 1960s and ’70s. Patrick’s dad, Jonathan,

ran a Brother Juniper’s at the Raphael House family homeless shelter in San Francisco in the 1980s. ey served five-cent cups of coffee and inexpensive sandwiches.Jonathan did the cooking and his mother was a caseworker in the family shelter.

Father Jonas Worsham, a Russian Orthodox priest, opened the Memphis Brother Juniper’s at its current location on Walker, just east of Highland. He took over the old College Inn and renamed it “Brother Juniper’s College Inn.”

“It had all the same menu items that are still on there

e “Mama Lil,” which was dedicated to Patrick’s grandmother, Lillie Koplin, was one of the new items. “She was the best cook in our family,” says Patrick, “and she was the one who taught us that the most important thing you can give someone is a good meal in their tummy.”

e dish, their “true Brother Juniper staple item,” features all his grandmother’s favorite things to eat. “It’s your openface omelet with home fries, spinach, roasted red peppers, and cold smoked Alderwood salmon,” says Patrick.

In addition to the Mama Lil, other best-sellers include the cinnamon roll pancakes and the San Diegan omelet, which was popularized on TV by Rachael

At one time Brother Juniper’s served lunch and dinner, but they decided to concentrate on breakfast, and that was obviously a good decision. Brother Juniper’s, which draws between 350 to 500 customers on Saturdays and Sundays, has consistently won the Memphis Flyer ’s “Best Breakfast” award since 1999.

e little restaurant gets involved in local events. “My mom started the Community Spotlight,” says Patrick. “Every month we put a different nonprofit charity on our board and we raise money and awareness for their outreach. And then on Christmas Eve, we open our doors for a full family meal to anyone in need. We do a full Christmas dinner.”

As Jonathan says, the essence of Brother Juniper’s is “food, family, and community.”

“We carry on the spirit of Brother Juniper,” Patrick says. “And that is giving back and generosity.”

Brother Juniper’s is located at 3519 Walker Avenue.

Darya and Patrick Koplin serve cinnamon pancakes with the ”Mama Lil“ special.

This Tiger’s Earned Her Stripes

BY BRUCE VANWYNGARDEN

Ecco has long been one of my favorite Memphis restaurants. Owner Sabine Bachmann has created a welcoming space in an old stone building on Overton Park Avenue in Midtown, and the Italian-themed menu is unique in the city. (I highly recommend the orange and fennel salad and any of the homemade pastas, if you’re a first-timer.)

High School and the University of Memphis.

“So, what’s new on the cocktail menu at Ecco?” I ask.

Ecco also has a popular bar in the front of the house and their cocktail menu is notably stellar. I ventured over to the restaurant on a recent afternoon to meet Mary Connor (“MC”) Jones, the young woman who’s the creative force behind Ecco’s cocktails. She is vivacious, with an easy smile.

“So, tell me a little about your job,” I say, after introductions.

“My official title now is beverage director,” Jones says. “I work with the bartenders here and at Tonica and Libro [Bachmann’s other two restaurants]. My main job is collaborating

with them to come with the cocktail menus and wine lists. But I started as a bartender here in 2017.”

“Five years at one place is a long time in the restaurant business,” I say. “What keeps you at Ecco?”

“I love working here,” she says. “It’s such a family atmosphere. Sabine is like a second mom to me. And I just love cooking and food and restaurants. I started working as a hostess at Local when I was 17 and worked my way up. I also used to cook with my mother when I was younger.”

Born and raised in Memphis, Jones grew up in Midtown and attended White Station

The ‘Easy Tiger’ is a rum-based drink infused with Thai tea. It’s kind of similar to chai, with a little spice, but less intense. It’s also got turmeric, which gives it an orangish color. There’s a cocoa tinge, and it’s tea-forward.

“We change the menu twice a year,” she replies. “Fall/winter and spring/summer. Our fall/ winter menu has been in place for a couple weeks now and it’s very spice-focused this time around, with a lot of Italian amaros, which fit well with our food. And we have a lot of regulars, some who walk over from the neighborhood, so we like to give them fresh options.”

“If you had to make a drink for me right now — and you do — what would it be?” I say.

“I’ve been struggling with what I want to make,” Jones says, “but I think it’s going to be what we’re calling ‘Easy Tiger’ on our current menu.”

“ at sounds scary. Sort of.”

“Not really,” says Jones. “It’s a rum-based drink, infused with ai tea. It’s kind of similar to chai, with a little spice, but less intense. It’s also got turmeric, which gives it an orangish color.”

“ at should be interesting, to say the least,” I say. “Let’s do it.”

Jones gets to work, shaking, blending, stirring. After a few minutes, she slides a shallow cocktail glass across the bar. It’s a thing of beauty — a creamy-looking orange concoction, with a sage leaf floating nicely near the rim.

I take a whiff.

“It almost smells like orange,” I say.

“ is drink is kind of verging on the sweet side,” Jones says. “I usually love making citrus cocktails but this has none. ere’s a cocoa tinge, and it’s tea-forward.”

I take a sip. “ is is not at all what I expected,” I say. “It’s really good, but I can’t think of anything to compare it to.”

“Well, it’s got the rum, of course,” says Jones. “And it’s mixed with Charleston Tolerance Whisky Liqueur, which is distilled with ginger and aromatic cinnamon. ere’s also honey syrup and oat milk, which gives it that creamy feel. It’s a different drink for me, but it’s still pretty boozy.”

A second sip confirms Jones’ analysis. is one is a sipper.

Jones’ phone buzzes. She looks at it and grins. “Are you through with me?”

“I think so,” I say. “You look like you have somewhere to go.”

“I do, actually,” she says. “I need to run over to Tonica to place a liqueur order.”

“No problem,” I say. “As long as I can sit here and enjoy this.”

Mary Connor Jones is a busy woman. And she makes a mean cocktail. Check out Ecco and discover for yourself.

Ecco is located at 1585 Overton Park Ave., 901-410-8200.

MC Jones serves an “Easy Tiger.”

The beverage director at Ecco crafts a cocktail to welcome autumn.

Jesse Wisley started installing and servicing architectural and landscape lighting in 2008. In 2011, he created his own business, Mid South Night Lights.

Over the past thirteen years, changes in low voltage lighting have evolved due to LED technology. There are many different designs, and installation techniques are endless. What Jesse and his crew of installers are able to illuminate today, versus ten years ago, is literally and figuratively the difference between night and day. The design and implementation of any lighting project is extremely rewarding, with a soft illumination that not only pleases the eye, but simultaneously produces a wow factor.

Jesse has become a leader in the area’s architectural and landscape lighting market. He makes time to attend national conferences, where he is introduced to advancements in lighting, as well as other products. Mid South Night Lights is the Greater Memphis Area’s premier architectural and landscape lighting firm.

Mid-SouthNightLights.com

The Sweet Story of Dinstuhl’s

BY VANCE LAUDERDALE

Born in Quincy, Illinois, just one year after the end of the Civil War, a young man named Charles Dinstuhl eventually moved south. In Memphis, he had two business ventures in mind, which he opened side by side on Main Street in 1902. e first was something he called a “ eatorium” — a tiny theater showing the new “moving pictures.” e little nickelodeon didn’t last long, unable to compete when larger, grander movie palaces opened Downtown.

e second business, however, an unassuming candy shop, would make his family famous in this city for generations.

Dinstuhl’s Candies opened at Main and Washinton, and Charles promoted the new venture with newspaper advertisements that extolled the virtues of his products. A typical ad explained, “The pleasure of eating pure candy can be had for little money at Dinstuhl’s confectionary store. How little? Well, you can buy a 5-cent sample of our cream chocolate, toasted marshmallows, or buttercups. But what’s the use? You’d surely want more. Take home a pound box for 40 cents. Then you’ll know why you wanted more.”

Other promotions made customers aware of the impressive variety of candies produced at the tiny, 400-square-foot store.

An Easter ad touted Dinstuhl’s “Spring Shower of Treats” and announced they sold “enough varieties to please everybody,” with all of them “calculated to interest your palate and please your heart.”

As the business prospered, Dinstuhl’s moved into larger spaces. Within six years of the company’s founding, the company — no longer just a “candy store” but described in the city directories as a “High-Grade Confectioner” — moved to 91 South Main, then again to 64 N. Main. By the 1930s, it had relocated to 1149 Union, and in the next decade, had found a new home at 120 Madison.

Even though the company address kept changing, there was one constant: the Dinstuhl

family presence. When Charles retired in the 1930s, his son Charles Jr. began running the business. Over the years, other descendants — Charles Jr.’s son, Edward, and then his son, Gary — have been involved, making Dinstuhl’s one of the oldest family-owned businesses in Memphis.

In the 1960s, the company made one of its boldest moves. It seems every retailer on Main Street wanted to move east. In 1962 Dinstuhl’s opened in the brand-new Laurelwood shopping center at Poplar and Perkins.

e grand opening featured a rather unusual ribbon-cutting ceremony. Mayor Henry Loeb sliced through a “ribbon” of melted chocolate to welcome customers into the new store. Eight-year-old Gary Dinstuhl, who would grow up to run the busness, handed out treats by the front door, and youngsters could reach through a “whirling wheel that stops in front of holes cut into four boxes” and reach for free candy. Also inside the store, a sign in the shape of a railroad crossing warned

Road. At 11,000 square feet, the new facility was almost 30 times the size of the original store Charles Dinstuhl had opened on Main Street more than 80 years before.

In 2003, more changes took place when Larry and Judy Moss purchased the company. Although their daughter, Marissa Moss is involved with daily operations, yet another Dinstuhl — Rebecca Dinstuhl — is president of the business. is new team improved the manufacturing operations and added new products that became instant classics; especially popular

An Easter ad touted Dinstuhl’s “Spring Shower of Treats” and announced they sold “enough varieties to please everybody,” with all of them “calculated to interest your palate and please your heart.”

are their chocolate bark, pecan fudge, cashew crunch, and (when in season) chocolate-covered strawberries. Another addition was something Charles Sr. surely never envisioned — a thriving online business (dinstuhls.com), with Dinstuhl’s products shipped around the globe.

Today, the company is called Dinstuhl’s Fine Candies. e manufacturing operations take place on Pleasant View, and retail centers are located there as well as in Laurelwood (436 Grove Park), Germantown (7730 Poplar Ave. #3), Collierville (231 New Byhalia Rd), and Downtown (147 S. Main).

customers to “Stop, Look, and Lick ’Em.”

In 1983, Dinstuhl’s embarked on its largest expansion to date, when it opened its “Candy Kitchen” at 5280 Pleasant View

More then a century ago, an early newspaper ad assured customers, “We have expert knowledge in candy-making, and here you’ll get purity.” Some 120 years have passed, and the Dinstuhl family can still make that promise.

POSTCARD COURTESY VANCE LAUDERDALE; PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY DINSTUHL’S

For more than 120 years — and five generations — this family-owned company has remained a Memphis tradition.

JA

BY SHARON BROWN AND AIMEE STIEGEMEYER

Memphis is a rarity in the world of modern professional sports: a one-horse town. We don’t have an NFL team (despite a few serious attempts). We love our Redbirds, but they’re not a Major League Baseball team. And while Nashville somehow has an NHL franchise, the Stanley Cup will not be paraded down Beale Street. But damn, do we have an NBA team.

e Memphis Grizzlies may have arrived 21 years ago, but the romance feels brand new, like sunshine on Saturday morning. And in 2022, the Griz took a culture defined by grit and grind and added considerable grace (thanks to a sky-walking All-NBA talent) with a dose of greed (leading the entire NBA in steals). For winning their first Southwest Division title — the youngest team in the NBA’s 76 seasons to win 55 games — and lifting a city when it needed lifting, the Memphis Grizzlies can add one more banner to their collection: Memphis magazine’s 2022 Memphians of the Year.

e Grizzlies’ legacy in Memphis — as both a franchise and a way of life — is the embodiment of the phrase bloom where you are planted. In the years since 2001 — when a stumbling, six-year-old Vancouver Grizzlies operation moved more than 2,400 miles southeast — the Griz have become a beloved institution without so much as reaching the NBA Finals. In 2022, Zach Kleiman — at just 34, the Grizzlies’ front-office chief — was named the NBA’s Executive of the Year. ere have been winning seasons (12 of them) and a few best left tucked in the record books. Led by the “core four” of Zach Randolph, Mike Conley, Marc Gasol (our 2015 Memphian of the Year), and Tony Allen, the Grizzlies reached the Western Conference finals in 2013. But in 2022, a new notch seemed to be carved. e Grizzlies posted the NBA’s second-best record (56-26) despite their star attraction (one Temetrius Jamel Morant … we call him Ja) missing 25 games with injuries.

e Grizzlies may have arrived in Memphis in 2001. It feels like they arrived for the rest of the NBA-watching world in 2022.

“ONLY IN THE MOVIES AND IN MEMPHIS”

The late Don Poier’s catchphrase is a perfect description for how special the franchise has become to the city.

e Grizzlies’ original radio voice, Poier moved with the team to Memphis from British Columbia and immediately felt the vibe, first reverberated at e Pyramid (where the Grizzlies played their first three seasons before moving to FedExForum in 2004).

e Grizzlies have become interwoven in the fabric of the city and intertwined in our shared culture. ey have acted as a force for good in a time when Memphis needs its champions and change-makers more than ever.

Star power? We may not be L.A. or Madison Square Garden in the Big Apple, but check out the floor-level seats on a Grizzlies game night: ree 6 Mafia, Yo Gotti, Moneybagg Yo, NLE Choppa, and others. Justin Timberlake can be seen wearing Griz gear. As Morant rises to A-list status among NBA superstars, the celebrity waters rise — and importantly, spread — in Griz Nation.

“Our Grizzlies represent a Memphis whose resiliency, compassion, accessibility, and hardscrabble character also define our country. They personify Shakespeare’s iconic Prince Hal. Few expect much of the young, troubled Hal. But then he matures and inherits the crown. The world would learn not to mock the righteous man’s might: “…I will keep my state, / Be like a king and show my sail of greatness, / When I do rouse me in my throne …”

— Dan McCleary, founder and producing artistic director, tennessee shakespeare company

ADOPTED SONS

Though the team did not originate in Memphis, they now feel like a distinctly Memphis institution. Even the Grizzlies’ in-game entertainment has a distinctly Memphis flavor. For example, the acrobatic squad of slam-dunkers who perform during halftime are called the Kings of the Court and wear jumpsuits that once made Elvis Presley the headliner of headliners in Las Vegas.

And consider the current roster. Morant was born in Dalzell, South Carolina. Sharpshooter Desmond Bane is from Richmond, Indiana, while Jaren Jackson Jr. (the NBA’s

Ja Morant elevated himself to superstar status in 2022, starting in the NBA All-Star Game and landing second-team All-NBA honors.

blocked-shots leader in 2022) hails from Plainfield, New Jersey. Hulking center Steven Adams drew his first breath in Rotorua, New Zealand, for crying out loud. e only thing the Grizzlies — the players themselves — have in common is Memphis. at makes for a distinctive bond, and not just between teammates.

GAME-CHANGING ASSISTS OFF THE COURT

The nonprofit entity known as the Memphis Grizzlies Charitable Foundation was officially established in 2004 for the purpose of supporting atrisk youth through various mentoring and educational initiatives. e team’s fi rst act of philanthropy in the community came in December 2001, in the form of a $1 million grant used to build a state-of-the-art neighborhood center for youth in the Alcy-Ball neighborhood of Memphis. Since its inception, the Grizzlies Foundation has invested over $53 million into youth mentoring, college prep programs, and Grizzlies Prep, a public charter school. ( e school — for boys in 6th through 8th grade — is tuition-free.)

“In 2010, the local ownership group made a decision to really focus on a specific issue,” says Tiffani Morrow, senior manager of youth mentoring at the Grizzlies Foundation. “And they selected youth mentoring. Under that

umbrella, we support mentoring in a number of different ways. We have our Grizzlies team program where three community volunteers and six young people meet once a week throughout the school year. We serve as the Tennessee state affiliate for MENTOR National and under that initiative, we support more than 50 youth-development organizations in the Mid-South.”

“The Grizzlies represent the culture of the city: tough, cohesive, and often overlooked. They provide a bridge from our past to our future, the passing of the torch from our older to younger generation.” — Greg Gaston, emmywinning sportscaster and host of sports 56 mornings on whbq radio

e pandemic presented a dramatic and unforeseen challenge for the Grizzlies’ community outreach, but the efforts didn’t slow. If anything, they intensified. “Young people were dealing with a lot, especially with mental health,” says Morrow. “Although we could not gather in person, it was important that we made sure young people still had access to their mentors. We took it upon ourselves to dig deep, finding information on e-mentoring and virtual mentoring’s best practices.”

Without cameras rolling, many players, coaches, and staff from the organization spend crucial time with students every week. e generosity and care towards Memphis can be felt at every level of the organization chart — from the front office to the coaching staff and from the players themselves.

Taylor Jenkins — now in his fourth season as the Grizzlies’ head coach — began the Coach Jenkins Assists for Education initiative, which raises money for school supplies and educational support for Memphis Shelby County Schools. For each of the past three seasons, Jenkins has pledged to donate $10 per Grizzlies assist. e program raised $24,330 during the 2021-22 season.

Memphis has a special place in Jenkins’ heart. “It means family, community, love and support,” he says. “I’ve felt that since day one. Obviously, I have a great responsibility being the head coach of a very cherished team here in this community.”

“When the Grizzlies arrived, they not only brought Memphis that major-league status a city desires, but when they embedded the soul of the franchise into our city’s identity, it brought a unifying force that embraced our authenticity. The grit-and-grind era has given way to new slogans like Next Gen and BIG MEM, but what remains true today, tomorrow, and into the future: This franchise breaks the mold. We are unlike any other city in the NBA, and possibly [all of] major league sports.”

— Kevin Kane, president and ceo, memphis tourism

Jenkins emphasizes the long history of Grizzlies basketball and basketball in general for a city devoted to its premier college program (the University of Memphis Tigers) since long before 2001. “ e fan base, I’ve felt them so much over these past three years,” he says, but Covid, as I always say, was unique. is past year, especially this past summer, leading into the season, just the way people welcome you ... it doesn’t matter if you’re with the Grizzlies or not, everyone’s out here to support each other, rally around each other, and care for each other.”

GIVING BACK IS A MUST

To many athletes, it’s neither a chore nor a PR stunt to help others in need. It’s from the heart. Take Grizzlies All-Star guard Ja Morant for example. It’s ingrained in his DNA to give back. Morant declares Memphis his home and giving back is an everyday thing for him. “My motto I always live by is, ‘Blessings come when you bless others.’”

A Game Experience in the Grind House

There has never been a better time to be a Grizzlies fan. If you’ve never been to one of their games at FedExForum, you are missing an experience that can’t be replicated by watching the matchup on a screen.

The special arena experience is a show inside the show, bringing fans into the game experience during breaks in play, with short contests or skits including the mascot, Grizz, in both his forms: the original Grizz, and Super Grizz, his superhero alter-ego.

The Grizzlies marketing team ties its promotional gift schedule to the seasons, such as Grizzlies wrapping paper near the Christmas holiday. Fans can also enjoy specific themed nights. There’s wrestling night, complete with Grizzlies-themed wrestling belts; Star Wars night, which is what it sounds like; and once upon a time there was even neck-tattoo night, with the first 5,000 fans getting temporary decals of a Grizzlies neck tattoo.

Whatever the occasion, the first 5,000 fans in the door are almost always going home with a souvenir of some kind. During the playoffs, printed rally towels — better known as growl towels — are ready on each seat for fans to wave during the game. Last year during a postgame press conference after a victory over New York, Ja Morant gave the Grizzlies marketing team marketing momentum for years to come when he said, “There ain’t no runnin in the M, man. We climb up the chimney, we ain’t ducking no smoke. We’re going to let everybody know we’re here.”

A lot of work happens behind the scenes to keep the energy up and the atmosphere exciting during every game, no matter what the score may be. The Claw Crew and members of the Grizz Girls dance and hold signs imploring fans to cheer, while an animated sign that runs around the arena alternates with messages of “GET LOUD” and “MAKE SOME NOISE!”

Electricity is almost palpable in the Grind House. However loud it sounds watching the broadcast,

it is twice as loud in person.

Pregame player intros are a hype rally as the crowd gasses up the team before play begins. The players themselves exchange high-fives and complicated handshakes as each starter’s name and number is called.

The crowd explodes every time the Grizz make a big play, like Ja taking flight from the foul line and throwing down a monster dunk.

Morant’s magic on the court does not stop with dunking the ball. His three-point shooting has improved every year of his career, as has his ability to read the court and see plays set up for his teammates. A split-second change in direction or orientation leads to an offhand pass to someone under the basket or lobbed up toward the rim for a teammate to catch and complete the motion, stuffing the ball into the basket.

And the crowd goes wild when his court vision results in some flashy ball movement and kicking the ball out to an open Desmond Bane on the perimeter for a catch and shoots three. Bane’s shot finds the bottom of the net and the crowd of 18,000 erupts in cheers so loud it almost seems they could blow the roof right off the building.

Regular games are fun, but being inside FedExForum during the playoffs is a different level of experience. The Grizzlies anthem, “Whoop That Trick,” made famous by the film Hustle & Flow and written by Memphis rapper Al Kapone, was first used back in 2013 against the Los Angeles Clippers (“Whoop That Clip”). There’s nothing like hearing the chant as a rallying cry for the team.

Jaren Jackson says the team’s affection for the city runs deep. “Memphis means to me real, real authentic energy, passion, the underdog mentality. I’m just always excited to wake up in a place that’s been able to show me love always. And it shows love when you show it back. It’s just [the] culture, music, and all that.”

— Sharon Brown and Aimee Stiegemeyer

In fi lming a documentary on Morant last July, the star’s management team caught a server’s reaction to a $500 tip. And her reaction went viral, as Ja-related activity tends to these days. She was shocked and started questioning who the NBA’s 2020 Rookie of the Year might be. Eventually, Morant (the NBA’s 2022 Most Improved Player) told her he played for the Grizzlies. She lit up. And mispronounced his name.

“You’re that boy?,” she asked as she used her hands to demonstrate the longer hairstyle he wore last season. “What’s your name?” When he told her, she covered her mouth and ran to the back while leaving her tip behind.

“It was funny how she pronounced my name at first,” said Morant, “but it was just shocking to see. I feel like it’s something I would never get used to with people being a fan of me and everything. It’s actually why I’m gonna wear my hair up for a little bit [after] she did the demonstration.”

Early on, Morant’s parents instilled in him the value of helping others. Jamie Morant, Ja’s mother, shared a distinctive Mother’s Day viewpoint last spring with the Memphis Flyer. “Giving back is very important,” she stressed, “and Ja has always seen us give back. Our home in South Carolina was always open to many and we

treated them all as our own. ey would play basketball and then we would put food on the grill. It’s all a part of mentoring our youth and giving them a safe place to be and not in the streets. I honestly believe that’s how our family is in this position now. Bless others, and be blessed!”

Last summer, Morant teamed up with BodyArmor and Coke Consolidated on a project that renovated 13 outdoor basketball courts throughout Memphis. Morant conducted a clinic and interacted with more than 100 young athletes from the Memphis Parks Summer Program. “That’s where I grew up,” said Morant, “on a concrete court. It reminded me of being back home, playing on that court.”

Only 23 years old, Morant has led the Grizzlies in scoring in each of his three seasons and would have finished sixth in the league for 2021-22 with an average of 27.4 points per game had he not fallen short of the number of games to qualify for the title. His gifted athleticism and jaw-dropping dunks have made the Grizzlies worldwide leaders in highlight searches and shares. Memphians who weren’t NBA fans — there are a few — become fans because of Morant. Such is the nature of star power in a league built behind single names — Magic, Bird, Jordan, Kobe, LeBron — that became

In the summer, Morant partnered with BodyArmor to build and open basketball courts throughout the Bluff City.

international brands. In July, Morant signed a five-year rookie maximum extension worth upwards of $231 million. Forget Memphian of the Year. Ja Morant may become Memphian of the Decade.

“A lot of credit goes to the organization with making me happy,” Morant said during interviews about his extension. “Bringing me in, making me feel at home, allowing me to be myself while I’m out on the court, being able to play my game. You know it makes me happy, and just the loyalty and the joy they show with me being here means a lot to me coming from somebody who is a big family person. I feel like the whole organization is my family. Memphis is my family and that’s why this is my home.”

“The Grizzlies are a completely unifying source for the city. Like the Tigers, the Grizzlies just make us all come together.”

— Dr. Jeffrey Warren, physician and former

Morant’s partner in the Grizzlies’ backcourt, Desmond Bane, has taken his own initiative in lifting a segment of the Memphis community. For the second straight year, Bane partnered with the Reaves Law Firm for Bane’s Backpacks, a school giveaway in August. About 150 children from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis enjoyed a day filled with games and prizes, and each received a backpack from Bane stocked with school essentials.

e Grizzlies’ leader with 228 three-point-

Origin Story

”One day I got a call from a man who likes to maintain anonymity. He said, ‘Henry I need your help on a matter but you must agree to not say a word about it to anyone.’

I agreed to his terms and asked, ‘What’s up?’

‘We think Memphis has a chance to get an NBA team,’ he says. ‘We’ll want to locate them Downtown. You know Downtown as well as anyone; we’ll need you to help show the prospective teams and the NBA brass our city.’ I remember making a quick mental calculation. The odds must be 10 to 1 against landing the NBA, but the payoff to Memphis will be 100 to 1.

‘Sure, I’ll help,’ I told him. And along the way I learned how uniquely generous this endeavor was. There was no ego on the part of the sponsor. His purpose was simply to bring something to make Memphis proud. And particularly to bring us together across racial boundaries.”

— Henry Turley, developer and owner, henry turley companies

TOP PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY BODYARMOR; COACH PHOTOGRAPH BY MIKE EHRMANN

In just his third season at the helm, Taylor Jenkins finished second in NBA Coach of the Year voting.

ers in 2021-22, Bane told the eager children that it was great to be there with them that day. “It’s not just about me,” he noted. “It’s about all the people that made this possible. It’s a special day for me and I hope it’s a special day for you guys.

“When the Grizzlies first came to Memphis, a lot more rock and pop-oriented music [was played at the game]. There wasn’t that much hip hop. I totally respect that once hip hop started getting played more, they decided to represent Memphis hip hop specifically. They could have gone with national artists, but they specifically made sure and kept it Memphis-based. And the beauty of that is, when people put the hometown first, it gives you that hometown feeling. You’ve got Memphis hip hop playing at the games, and people who come get the whole Memphis culture.” — Al Kapone, musician and producer, whose “whoop that trick” from the movie hustle & flow is played at every grizzlies home game.

“As a kid growing up in Richmond, Indiana, you don’t get too many opportunities like this,” Bane said. “It means a lot to me, just seeing the smiles on these kids’ faces. I think that you know, especially in an area like Memphis, it’s essential for kids to get a little excitement going into the school year, with the proper materials.”

Bane remembers being one of the kids that needed help when he was younger. “I want to do it out of the goodness of my heart,” he added. “You know, regardless of if I was an end-of-the-bench guy or the best player on the team, I want to be able to do things like this and bring smiles to these kids’ faces and help them in any way I can.”

Jaren Jackson Jr. addresses a group of young players at the 2019 All-Girls Basketball Symposium, an event hosted at FedExForum.

Bane said it will be an annual event for him and he will find other ways to bring the community together in the future. “It’s just a healthy environment for kids to come together and be kids,” he said.

A third Grizzlies star, fifth-year forward Jaren Jackson Jr., is leading community outreach, even as he nurses a right-foot injury (which required surgery) that has delayed the start of his season. Memphians have prob-

“The impact the Grizzlies have had on Memphis is impossible to calculate. We play on the national stage, but perhaps more importantly, they represent our aspirations to believe in ourselves as a community, to rise above the troubled waters, and prove that when we work together, we will succeed.” — Gayle S. Rose, philanthropist and member of the “pursuit team” that brought the grizzlies to memphis

ably seen videos of “JJJ” publicly receiving a vaccination for Covid, and encouraging others to get vaccinated. (There’s a metaphor there, Jackson having made the NBA’s 2022 All-Defensive team.) Most recently he talked about the importance of voting while casting his ballot early in October.

But when it comes to showing support for women and girls in sports, Jackson has always been a champion. It runs in the family. His mom, Terri Jackson, is executive director of the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA), the players’ union for the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).

It took 27 years (21 in Memphis), but the Grizzlies won the franchise’s first Southwest Division title in 2022.

In an essay for the Players’ Tribune in honor of National Women and Girls in Sports Day, Jaren described his vision for giving back and how it resulted in the All-Girls Basketball Symposium: “I wanted to find a way to use my first shoe deal to promote girls and women in sports. As we say on the court about sharing the ball: Everybody eats. I didn’t want this deal to be just about me. Instead, I wanted to share the ball, so to speak.”

“My sister, Oona, and I arrange the musical performances. We try to create a super Memphis experience that gets the crowd motivated. Some corporations might say, ‘Oh, we don’t want rap,’ but the Grizzlies said, ‘No, we want the real Memphis.’ They fully embraced the city and its musical heritage.”

— Boo Mitchell, Royal Studio owneR, pRoduceR, and 2019 MeMphian of the yeaR

In partnership with Nike, Jackson hosted the 2019 All-Girls Basketball Symposium, an event that invited players from nearby Memphis schools to the Grizzlies’ practice court, where they spent the afternoon running drills and learning skills as well as the chance to talk shop with WNBA star A’ja Wilson.

Swingman Dillon Brooks — the longest-tenured member of the Grizzlies, having first suited up for the 2017-18 season — added some impressions of Memphis and its ongoing love affair with the city’s lone big-league franchise. “It means the world to me,” he says. “I’ve been here when Marc [Gasol] was here

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901-451-8871

Boo Mitchell (center, with microphone), with Drumma Boy, Tee Morant (Ja’s dad), and DJ Paul.

FourMemphis artistsinviteusinto theirhomestudios.

GETTINGCREATIVE

BY CHRIS MCCOY PHOTOGRAPHS

BY JOHN PICKLE

above: Hamlett Dobbins, painter and art professor right: Lawrence Matthews, musician and multimedia artist

What does it take to be creative? Author Virginia Woolf famously said one of the requirements was “a room of one’s own.” If you want to pursue art, you need a place to be alone with your thoughts, stocked with all the tools to practice your craft. We reached out to some of Memphis’ most prominent artists, who graciously invited us into the sanctums where they unlock their creativity.

above: Dale and Brin Baucum, potters and artists right: Maritza Dávila, printmaker and art professor

Hamlett Dobbins

I f you’ve spent any time in the galleries and studios of Memphis, odds are you’ve seen Hamlett Dobbins’ work. His abstract paintings, which freely combine colors and textures, draw you into the artist’s inner world.

“My daughter, Mila, when she was really little, was a big fan of the Red Hot Chili Peppers,” he says. “One time in the car, we were listening to them, and she said, ‘I want to be in that song.’ And I was like, ‘Yeah, you want to be a bass player, like Flea.’

And she said, ‘No, no! I want to be in that song.’ I think we’ve all had that moment. My paintings are, for me, a way to think about those moments, and try and figure it out. Sometimes, those moments can be about the patterns that were happening there — the pattern of the grass versus the pattern of the clouds versus the color of hair. The paintings come from those. Sometimes it can be something really simple. Sometimes it can be something really complicated.”

Dobbins has taught art at Rhodes College, the University of Memphis, Ole Miss, and the University of Iowa. “Part of what I do is teach the craft of image-making,” he says. “Part of what I also teach is trying to get students to ask themselves questions. So I ask questions

of them, in the hopes that those questions might later lead them to other questions, or other answers.

“I always tell my students, ‘I can teach anybody to make a really good drawing of a skull, but I cannot teach you to make an interesting drawing of a skull.’ What I’m trying to do is a little bit of both — teach them some of the physical craft, like how to hold their hand, how to make a composition, that kind of thing. But then also expose them to, and allow them to think about, the possibilities of what else they might be able to do.”

Dobbins’ studio is behind his Midtown home, which he shares with his wife, fabric artist Katrina Perdue, and their five children. “It

above: Hamlett Dobbins’ home studio provides the painter with plenty of natural light. left: Dobbins uses paint cups to mix his own hues. below left: A work in progress shares wall space with images and objects Dobbins uses for inspiration.

was a garage,” he says, “and then we renovated it and Katrina had her studio out here for a little while — but then she quickly outgrew the space, and got a bigger studio.

“It really helps for me to have a place where I can be where I can just sort of be myself,” he says. “For me, the studio is about trying to figure out the connections between things.”

One wall of the studio is covered by images, objects, and fragments of cloth Dobbins uses to stimulate his visual imagination. “How do these Christmas ornaments relate to these hat tassels my stepdaughters made, or with these pieces of gauze that I used to strain the bubbles out of paint?”

Ultimately, Dobbins says, no one can tell you how to create a room of your own. “Everyone has to find the thing that makes them happy What is it that you need to make art? What is it that you need to be whole? That’s one of the scariest questions to ask a 20-year-old student — but it’s scary for me, too.”

K nown as a multimedia artist, curator, and musician, Lawrence Matthews recently released 325i, his third and final album under the name Don Lifted. But he says he doesn’t consider himself a natural artist. “I think everybody can draw, and everybody starts off drawing,” he says. “It’s just that somebody either tells you that you can draw, or somebody tells you that you can’t.”

Matthews didn’t start taking art classes until he enrolled at the University of Memphis. “When I got to school, I was really struggling,” he says. “All the kids I was in art classes with had been in art programs and AP programs for art. Whereas, I just was a dude that could draw … I didn’t learn to paint until 2012. But I started to excel at it very fast. I went from being at the back of the class hiding to being front row and bringing in the most work and getting really involved in my classes and my critiques.

“I figured out that like, oh, this is something I could do for a living and you know, maybe I’m actually good at this. My professors really looked after me — Beth Edwards, Greeley Myatt, Jed Jackson. I had a team of folks who were really

pouring into me as an artist.”

Matthews began incorporating his visual art breakthroughs into his musical performances. “I owe a lot of my fan base now to the arts environment that I got brought up in,” he says. “My shows became more art installation, mixed-media kind of shows that allowed me to tell a fully comprehensive, all-encompassing story, versus one that’s just me getting on stage with a microphone or just showing paintings on the wall.”

After Matthews’ parents divorced and remarried, he took over the Cordova house where he grew up. When he couldn’t get traction in traditional clubs for his unique blend of visual art and music, he

left: Lawrence Matthews’ paintings line the work space in his garage. below left: Glitter and paint. below: Matthews built his home studio in his home’s former dining room.

started throwing his own shows in his garage. “It was a catalyst for what I started to do with later partners — art shows, fashion, mixed-media kind of things.”

Throughout his twenties, the entire house was devoted to his art and music. But eventually, he found it was crucial to create some separation between workspace and living space. “This was just a place [where] I slept and made art. I had a little music studio in the back of my old bedroom, and I recorded my first album Contour there. I made all the art in the garage or the living room … I got signed [to Fat Possum records] in 2020, so that put a little money in my pocket, and I was able to build a studio in the dining room. Then I thought, I need to make this a space that’s livable for me. I’d felt that all along, but I’d been putting it off, because I’d put everything into my creative life. It’s all about the mission! But you have to take care of yourself.”

Lawrence Matthews

Maritza Dávila

Printmaking is an ancient process, believed to originate in China more than 1,800 years ago. Maritza Dávila has dedicated her life to perfecting the art and craft of ink transfer.

“My idea was to become a painter,” she says. “But then when I took my first form of printmaking course, I decided I really loved this. I like the process. I like the time it takes. I like the thinking process. I like the hands-on, building up of layers that creates an image. Painting is more immediate, and you can create layers and stuff. But the response to painting is different to me. I still do both, but now, when I do painting, I’m doing it from a printmaking standpoint.”

Dávila is well known in the Memphis art community, having taught many local artists during her tenure at the now-closed Memphis College of Art. Her work has been shown and sold all over the world. “Contrary to what people think, prints are not

top: Maritza Dávila uses her sketchbooks to carefully plan out her prints. middle: Prints in progress dry on these racks after new layers of ink are applied. right: One of Dávila’s printing presses in her recently expanded workshop.

copies,” she says. “Prints — because they’re hand-pulled, and the image done by hand, for the most part — are all originals.”

A native of Puerto Rico, she has lived in Memphis since the early 1980s with her husband (and Memphis senior editor) Jon W. Sparks. Like many artists, the space where she works began life as a garage which had already been converted to a small ceramics workshop before the couple bought the house in the Binghampton neighborhood. Recently, a renovation expanded the available space by about a third.

Large windows along one wall of the new construction let in plenty of natural light, and the light fixtures are carefully calibrated to provide a similar spectrum. “Artificial light changes the way the color looks,” Dávila says. “Natural light doesn’t have that problem, depending on what time of the day it is. The first thing that I did was change the lights and paint the ceilings white, to have a good reflection.”

A typical Dávila print begins as an idea she puts down in one of her voluminous sketchbooks. “I don’t call it ‘design,’” she says. “I’m making images. … Design relates more to a practical finality. Image relates to something that you want to say, something that has a story, that

has a theme, that has a content. So, I do a lot of research. That’s part of the fun for me — I research and I document it all here. It keeps those ideas from flowing and being forgotten onto the air. When I see them, then I can change them. That’s hard to do just in your mind.”

As the idea develops, the notebooks fill with notes, drawings, and swatches of cloth and paper. Once she feels the idea is fully formed, she will produce a matrix, carving elements of the image into a block of wood or metal that is then covered in ink and pressed against paper or fabric.

Dávila studied printmaking techniques from many cultures, even traveling to Japan to learn how to make her own paper. She has sought out nontoxic alternatives to the noxious inks and chemicals used in industrial scale printing. A final product can include many layers of color, and even elements of collage, all working together ro produce a carefully constructed image.

“Many students doing art, if I may say so, are doing art because they think it’s easier than anything else.” says Dávila. “But it’s not.”

Dale and Brin Baucum

T hey were both students at the Memphis Academy of Arts (later Memphis College of Art), but Dale and Brin Baucum first met at an art show in Nashville. It was love at first sight, and they soon married.

Brin majored in photography and interior design. “My focus was pottery,” says Dale. “And that’s what I did for 50 years. I hung out with some names that the older people recognize: Dorothy Stern, Ted Farris, and Burton Calicott. When I was making pottery, it was always a linear experience with decorating them. And then later on, Brin and I focused on combining both of our elements on the same pots.”

Once out of school, Baucum Pottery set up shop in Cooper-Young. In 1978, they moved into what had been Brin’s grandparents’ house in the Vollintine-Evergreen district. Importantly, the home had a separate garage. “My granddaddy’s Buick would come in over here and hit the wall,” says Brin.

Dale used money he had inherited from the sale of a family farm to build a gas kiln and workshop in the space. “It wasn’t an extraordinary amount of money, but it was enough that we could build this

room the way that we wanted it. And so, in a sense, we invested that in our farm, which was here. And we’ve made a living,” says Dale. “Met Crump was our architect, and we traded pots with him for the work. When we later redid our kitchen, Marge Hall was our architect, and we traded pots with her, too. We’ve traded with dentists and surgeons, before you couldn’t do that sort of thing any more.”

Having both parents of two small children make their living as professional artists was always risky, but Brin says it offered many advantages when it came to raising them. “They were never without a parent at home — which I’m sure they were not always thrilled over. But we put them in the van and took them to art fairs all over the place.”

Once Baucum Pottery built up a reputation on the art fair circuit, they inked deals with a number of outlets like Babcock Gifts and reduced their travel schedule. Instead, they held pottery shows out of their custom backyard studio that would attract buyers from all over the Mid-South. “We made stuff as fast as we could,” says Dale, “and we didn’t have to go anywhere except our wonderful studio shows, at that point.”

In 2012, The Dixon Gallery and Gardens surprised the Baucums

above: A wall of well-used pottery tools in the former Baucum Pottery studio. left: The backyard kiln where the Baucums fired their pottery. below: After back injuries sidelined his pottery career, Dale turned to painting to satisfy his creative spirit.

by asking them to mount an exhibit featuring 40 years of their pottery. For scrappy potters who had worked outside of the fine art gallery and museum system all their lives, getting the full career retrospective treatment from a respected institution was a huge honor. “And boy did we get it! We had all seven galleries,” says Dale.

“It was a wonder,” says Brin. “I’d never been on the inside of a museum show before.”

Since pottery involves hauling and shaping heavy blocks of clay and dealing with the heat of the fiery kiln, it can be a physically demanding pursuit. After decades hunched over the wheel, back injuries and arthritis eventually ended Dale’s pottery days. Now, he spends his creative time in their home’s front room, painting and sketching, while Brin has returned to photography.

“When you go into that third or fourth level, when you’re doing something, the world kind of stops around you. It’s just you in your head and whatever’s going on. Whatever comes out of it, it just always has seemed right. Which is a good, good thing,” says Dale.

“It’sreallearning-curvestuffforme.Geez,whatwasIthinking?”

SteveSelvidge,theMemphisguitarwizandmemberoftheHold Steady,wholearnedaboutmusicfirsthandfromhisfather,thelateSid Selvidge,soundslikehe’shavingsecondthoughtsaboutjumpingintothe recordlabelgame,buthe’snot,really.Youcanseethegleaminhiseye asheholdsthedebutLPbyMEM_MODS,hisadhocgroupwithLuther DickinsonandPaulTaylor,freshlymintedonthePeabodyRecordsimprinthisfatherstartedin1976.Allconcernswithjumpstartingthelabel aside,releasingMEM_MODSonvinylhasclearlybeenalaboroflove. Selvidgeisbutonepilgrimontheroadbacktovinylrecords,ajourney thatmusicians,labels,andfansaretakingingreaternumberseveryyear.

Since2008,consumerinterestinthattwentieth-centurydinosaur,the LP,orlong-playingalbum,hasonlyaccelerated,withmarketanalysespredicting continuedannualgrowthbetween8and15percentforvinylmusicalproducts overthenextfivetosixyears.That’sanotablestatisticforinvestors,andasignof hopeforthosewhoprefertoholdtheirfavoritemusicintheirhands.

Memphisisatthecenterofthisvinylrevival.Everystepoftherecord-makingprocess—labels,recording,mastering,recordpressing,distribution, andretail—canbefoundhere.JohnnyPhillips,co-ownerofthelongtimeMemphis-basedrecorddistributorSelect-O-Hits,says,“Notverymanycitiescanoffer everythingweofferrighthere.Everythingyouneed,youhaverighthere.Memphis islikeaone-stop-shopforvinylrightnow.”

TANGIBLE AND DURABLE

S teve Selvidge and the many other local owners of small, independent labels — Archer, Madjack, Back to the Light, and others mentioned below — are clearly in the right place, and they’re in the game for more than sentimental reasons. As Selvidge sees it, vinyl albums are inherently appealing, aside from any nostalgia or associations they have with his own family history.

“Just look at the tangibility, beyond any generation gap,” he reflects. “It’s younger people that grew up in the post-CD age that want vinyl now. It’s not just a fad or a niche. It’s a durable medium, the same as recording tape.”

In contrast, he notes, digital music can fall prey to the relentless march of planned obsolescence. “I’m sure you have hard drives that won’t spin up from 2005, or outmoded software,” he says. “But when I transferred my dad’s tapes that [Ardent Studios founder] John Fry cut in 1966, they were bulletproof, man! They sounded

amazing. It’s the same thing with vinyl. If you’re geared up to play it, whether it’s a current artist or an old classic, you have that, and you’ll have that to pass down for God knows how long, provided you take care of it. And if you’re an artist making vinyl now, even if sales are low, you’re creating the chance for someone to stumble on the physical thing, put the needle on, and have their lives changed.”

The sheer physicality of grooves cut into vinyl is one reason Memphis became a haven for independent labels like Hi, Sun, and Stax in the first place. Many of them relied on the services of a business at 1746 Chelsea: Plastic Products, established in 1949. Indeed, that one company may be the root cause of Memphis being Vinyl City, U.S.A. As a historical marker at the address notes:

R.E. “Buster” Williams, a self-educated engineer, opened Plastic Products in 1949 with

holds steady with Peabody Records’ first and latest releases.

PHOTOGRAPH

Jeff Powell’s Take Out Vinyl mastering lab cuts grooves into lacquer discs, from which record plants create the metal stamper plates used to press thousands of vinyl copies.

Memphis

is growing to meet the demand.

Co-owner Brandon Seavers: “2020 was an insane year for everyone. Yet in JanuaryMarch of that year, we were having our best quarter ever.”

designed himself. ... Knowing the struggles of small, independent recording studios, such as Sun and Stax, Williams offered them generous credit terms. By 1956 Plastic Products was pressing records round the clock for more than 49 labels nationwide, including Chess, Atlantic, ABC, Ace, Hi, Meteor, and Veejay records. In that same year Williams doubled production, turning out more than 65,000 records a day.

Peter Guralnick, author of Sam Phillips: The Man Who Invented Rock ‘n’ Roll, puts Plastic Products in perspective today: “You can’t overstate the importance of Buster Williams, and his generosity of spirit. He extended Sam credit, and Sam was always grateful. Sam went to his funeral. Buster Williams was integral, not just to Sam’s success, but to his feeling of individualism in the extreme.”

Phillips’ dogged individualism, of course, fueled the independent spirit that led Sun and other small local imprints to release music that was far off the beaten path, which nonetheless might turn into a hit. And Plastic Products enjoyed that gold rush of the original era of vinyl but, as Robert Gordon writes in It Came from Memphis, “the proliferation of cassettes and the demise of the seven-inch [record] forced them out of business.” But lately, in perfect sync

with vinyl’s revival, another player has emerged to keep Memphis in the game.

Memphis Record Pressing (MRP) arose from a partnership between Brandon Seavers and Mark Yoshida, whose AudioGraphic Masterworks specialized in CD and DVD production, and Fat Possum Records, whose co-owner Bruce Watson first suggested that they move into vinyl production. Now, the company is in the hands of Seavers, Yoshida, and GZ Media, the largest vinyl record manufacturer in the world, and is expanding dramatically.

Seavers points out how the world of vinyl has evolved over recent years. “When we started, we searched the world for record presses, which was really a challenge. Back in 2014, there were no new machines being built. You had to scour the corners of the earth to find ancient machinery and bring it back to life. Fast forward to 2018, when a few companies emerged around the world that invested in building new machines. We started bringing in these brand-new computer-controlled machines that were very different from our old machines. And that started the process of expansion. Through 2018-21,

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENTS

T hese pressing plants’ support for locals underscores another bastion of vinyl culture in the Bluff City: the many small labels that remain doggedly committed to releasing music on records. And that ethos goes hand in hand with taking aesthetic risks. It certainly spoke to Steve Selvidge, as an artist, when he decided to revive the label his father started in the 1970s.

“Peabody was always a bespoke, curated label,” says Selvidge. “A ‘we’re not going to worry about what you look like or how many units you’re going to shift’ kind of thing. It was just what piqued my dad’s interest.”

And there was always plenty of music to choose from, thanks not only to the city’s raw talent, but to the milieu of recording and mastering studios based here. To this day, studios that helped forge new sounds and genres in Memphis music’s golden age are still in operation, including Ardent Studios, Royal Studios, and Sam Phillips Recording, the latter even hosting a mastering business, Take Out Vinyl, which prepares discs for mass production.

The elder Selvidge was immersed in this world of studios cranking out music, and from the start he used Peabody to expose other local artists, embracing their idiosyncrasies, including what was once considered Alex Chilton’s commercial suicide,

Like Flies on Sherbert. Thanks to Chilton’s unique vision, the album has lived on through reissues over the years, even though, as the younger Selvidge puts it, the record’s genesis was “not coming from a place of commerce.”

Throughout these changes, even going back to the CD era, Seavers and Yoshida have prioritized local, obscure artists and labels. As Seavers notes, “We’ve always been focused on independent artists. We kind of grew up together as companies with one of our clients, Fat Possum Records, and they grew to be a powerhouse in the indie spectrum. This year marks our 25th year [since AudioGraphic Masterworks launched], and we’ve produced a thousand titles. Just to see the volume of work we’ve produced over that 25 years is amazing. And the vast majority of that was for independent artists.”

That could be said of the many small, independent record labels that have long characterized Memphis music. And they have always flourished here. A 1959 article in the Memphis Press-Scimitar lists a baker’s dozen of them: Albe, Cover, Diane, Fernwood, Hi, Lee, Pepper, Phillips International, Play Me, Stomper Time, Sun, Summer, and Tom-Tom. They don’t mention the tiny Satellite Records in nearby Brunswick, Tennessee, soon destined to relocate to McLemore Avenue in Memphis and change their name to Stax. Even labels that are now the stuff of legend started off in much the same way as Peabody. While they certainly had commercial ambitions, they were driven by their own particular aesthetics more than the big labels of the day, like RCA-Victor or Columbia.

The same holds true of the many local, vinyl-centric independent labels in business today. Archer, Back to the Light, Blast Habit, Big Legal Mess/Bible & Tire, Black & Wyatt, Madjack, Misspent, and Peabody are just some of the imprints releasing new works today, with all of them issuing LPs and/or 45-rpm singles. Other local labels operate on a more national or international stage, such

Record Pressing

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as Goner, Made In Memphis Entertainment, or the late Young Dolph’s innovative (and massive) indie label, Paper Route Empire.

AMERICA’S (VINYL) DISTRIBUTION CENTER

O nce these independent labels record their artists and press their LPs and singles (not to mention produce CDs and digital albums), how do they get them onto the turntables of music fans? The answer, as with so many things Memphis, is distribution. And by a classic combination of vision, family connections, and ambition, record distribution has been a part of the Memphis vinyl equation since 1960. The chain of friendship, encouragement, credit, and aesthetics that led Plastic Products to indirectly foster Sun Records also led to the creation of a distribution company, Select-O-Hits.

“In 1960, my dad, Tom Phillips, was Jerry Lee Lewis’ road manager,” recalls Johnny Phillips, nephew of Sam, the co-owner of Select-O-Hits. “When Jerry Lee married his 13-year-old cousin, he couldn’t be booked anywhere. My daddy had put all of his money into promoting Jerry Lee, and he lost it all.”

The family had been living in Mobile, Alabama. “So Dad came up to Memphis and went to work with my uncle Sam, taking returns back — 45s, 78s, and a few albums. Dad started selling those from the front of our store on 605 Chelsea, and we gradually grew into one of the largest onestops in the South. A one-stop is someone who supplies all labels to smaller retail stores. There used to be like 25 retail stores in Memphis, believe it or not. And then in the early ’70s, we started distributing nationwide. When Dad retired, my brother Sam [named for his famous uncle] and I bought him out. So Sam and I have been running it since 1975 or so.”

Over the years, Select-O-Hits has seen every ebb and flow of the vinyl market, including a major uptick after the advent of hip hop. “We were the first distributor for ‘Rapper’s Delight’ by the Sugar Hill Gang in 1979,” notes Phillips. That tradition continues today. “We’ve released about half of Three 6 Mafia’s catalog that we control in the last two years, on colored vinyl. And we distribute it all over the world.”

And if the distribution numbers are not what they used to be before CDs and then streaming took over, they are climbing steadily. “Back in the late 1980s and early ’90s, we were selling half a million vinyl records,” says Phillips. “But now we’re doing 5,000, 15,000. Still, last year was our biggest vinyl year ever [since CDs became dominant], and this year is looking just as good.”

Furthermore, the other local businesses related to vinyl records benefit from a kind of synergy with Select-O-Hits. As Johnny Phillips explains, “Since MRP’s gotten involved, it’s brought us more business. And we’ve turned on more of the labels that we distribute to MRP. So it’s been a great partnership with them and all the other facilities in Memphis.”

Amelia P. Bailey, M.D. William H. Kutteh, M.D., Ph.D. Raymond W. Ke, M.D. Paul R. Brezina, M.D.

Jared McStay is co-owner of the city’s oldest independent record store, Shangri-La. “There are also a lot of self-released records coming out,” he says. “Garrison Starr, Robert Allen Parker, and the Faux Killas all released their own albums recently.”

While Select-O-Hits sends records all over the world, that includes their own backyard. Indeed, Memphis has become something of a magnet for those looking to purchase and enjoy vinyl records. Though the city can no longer boast 25 retail outlets for vinyl, as Memphis once did, several retailers sell records here. Many tourists are delighted to find the Memphis Music shop on Beale Street stocked with an impressive array of vinyl, and just a stone’s throw away is the relatively new River City Records, on South Main. But the granddaddy of them all is Shangri-La Records, founded by Sherman Wilmott in 1988, then taken over in 1999 by Jared McStay, who now co-owns the shop with John Miller. And though the store has always sold some CDs, vinyl is at the heart of their business.

“The first couple of years,” says McStay, “I had to bet on vinyl because I couldn’t compete with the CD stores, like Best Buy or whatever. I was getting crushed, until I realized I could never compete with them. In the early 2000s, they were phasing out vinyl, and even stereo manufacturers stopped putting phonograph jacks on their stereos. But I had tons of records.”

Around the same time, Eric Friedl was running a small indie label, Goner, which ultimately became the Goner Records shop on Young Avenue. Zac Ives teamed up with Friedl in 2004, and they leaned into vinyl from the very start.

“I think Eric had done maybe two CDs at most when we joined forces and started expanding the label in 2004,” says Ives. “The rest were only on vinyl. And the stuff that we sold was always primarily vinyl. In our neck of the woods, it existed throughout all this time. There was no giant resurgence of vinyl for us. Those things came up around our industry, but we never left that model. And that’s how it was for most smaller, independent labels, especially in punk and underground realms.”

Combining a record shop with a record label is a time-honored tradition in Memphis, going back to Stax’s Satellite Records shop. The

DO MORE GOOD

pattern carries on today through both Shangri-La and Goner, which both have been named among the country’s best record stores by Rolling Stone Their shared dedication to vinyl mirrors their investment in live bands. Gonerfest, which brings bands, DJs, and record shoppers to town from around the world, will celebrate its 20th year next month, and Shangri-La has hosted smaller music fests even longer.

Both Goner and Shangri-La predate Record Store Day, the nationwide celebration of vinyl and the shops that carry it, now featuring many limited-release albums and singles from even major labels, as well as the usual indie suspects. The annual or biannual tradition has benefited countless shops like those in Memphis. As Seaver explains, “The industry has seen consistent growth since 2008, with the advent of Record Store Day.” And that’s further encouraged more shops to spring up, as consumers of vinyl have grown beyond the small niche of collectors and genre devotees to more casual shoppers, even tourists.

River City Records’ Chris Braswell notes, “I always wanted to be Downtown, and focus more on the tourist side than others. And it’s worked out great! Better than I could have hoped for, to be honest. For most people coming to Memphis, music is a big part of why they come, and I get a lot of tourists. And the people that are really driving the increases are teenagers, 20-year-olds, and 30-year-olds. They’re becoming avid vinyl collectors. A lot of people think streaming services like Spotify hurt physical sales, but I think it’s the exact opposite. Every previous generation has had the ability to possess some physical media of the bands they love, but this most recent generation didn’t have that. So they started looking for a way to physically possess their music, and vinyl is just the coolest medium there is. I think the streaming services are the best thing that ever happened to the vinyl industry.”

The resurgent interest is not limited to commerce. The Memphis Listening Lab (MLL) nonprofit is one of the few libraries of its kind in the world, a collection of thousands of LPs and singles (not to mention CDs and music books) open to the public, complete with multiple turntables and listening stations. Opening just over a year ago in Crosstown Concourse, it’s drawing considerable crowds for its listening events, as well as more casual drop-ins.

Jim Cole, MLL’s head archivist, says, “Vinyl is more and more a part of the listening experience. We get a ton of people in who grew up with records, but also a lot of kids who have record collections. You’re seeing all kinds of demographics. I think the novelty side of it has waned, and it’s considered more mainstream. People have accepted that it’s here to stay, and that it’s a valid way to listen to music. They come in and say, ‘Wow, I’ve never played a record. I just wanted to see what it’s like.’ Almost every day, you get that. So people definitely love vinyl. You engage with the music a little differently when you’re holding that square foot of artwork in your hand.”

The area’s all-new state-of-the-art indoor sports complex is approaching its much-anticipated opening this month, and their team has been hard at work developing unique programs for Memphians of all ages.

A wide array of youth activities will be offered to the community, including developmental youth sports classes, after-school programs, summer day camps, sports clinics, and much more. The first-ever tournament to take place on the courts of the Memphis Sports & Events Center, The Tip-Off, will run January 7-8, 2023. This competitive youth basketball event is open to competitive and elite divisions, grades 3-8.

Additionally, the MSEC recently announced the foundation of its in-house competitive basketball club, HOOPS 901. While team evaluations and seasonal play will commence in the

Spring, the club’s soft launch includes a winter break basketball camp and several training and player development programs that can be taken advantage of immediately.

The Memphis Sports & Events Center will balance the community’s needs while driving peak economic impact through sports tourism. At the helm is General Manager, Antonio Perez, former director of youth basketball programming for the Memphis Grizzlies.

“Everyone stands to gain from the Memphis Sports and Events Center. From new playing opportunities for both kids and adults across a myriad of programming options, to the economic impact that new regional and national events will generate for local businesses, what an exciting time for the City of Memphis!”

The facility’s preliminary event lineup has

been released and boasts many diverse and dynamic events ranging from cheer and dance to basketball, volleyball, futsal, and gymnastics to name a few.

The MSEC features 227,000 square feet of hard court space adaptable to sports like basketball, volleyball, wrestling, gymnastics, cheerleading, and futsal, as well as convocation and commencement events. The Center will also include a cafe and concessions area. Located in the heart of Liberty Park, just outside Memphis’ Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, the venue is in immediate proximity to a wide array of entertainment, retail, dining, and hospitality options, making it an ideal location for traveling tournaments and events looking for that little something “extra.”

Learn more about the Memphis Sports & Events Center at www.themsec.com

Located near the Shops of Saddle Creek

JOHN WHITTEMORE, DDS

TODD GRUEN,

DDS

ARTISTRY. EXPERTISE. CARE. COMFORT.

DR. TODD GRUEN NAMED A 2022 TOP DENTIST

A welcoming new patient experience answers your every question as we work together to develop your plan for optimal health and appearance. Conscious sedation is always available. You’ll be so comfortable and won’t remember a thing! Dr. Whittemore is a sustaining member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. An amazing dental experience awaits you. Be sure to visit our informative website for lots of before and after photos and video testimonials!

Dr. Todd Gruen, a native Memphian, has again been voted a top dentist in Memphis. His experience and amazing team have helped him create the unique type of practice that you and your family deserve. Dr. Gruen creates beautiful cosmetic and general dentistry. He has a gorgeous office with the newest technology. One-onone consultation time is always set aside to listen to your needs. Sedation dentistry allows for stress-free care.

memphissmiledesigns.com

ACTIVE MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY AND EXTENSIVE TRAINING FROM THE SPEAR CENTER AND KOIS CENTER.

ENHANCING SMILES, CHANGING LIVES FOR OVER 25 YEARS!

IF YOU WANT TO BE CARED FOR AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL IN YOUR DENTAL HOME, HERE IT IS… TOP DENTIST AGAIN FOR 2022

BY MAX MAHEY

2022 TOP DENTISTS

This list is excerpted from the 2022 topDentists™ list, a database which includes listings for over 130 dentists and specialists in the Memphis metropolitan area. The Memphis area list is based on thousands of detailed evaluations of dentists and professionals by their peers. The complete database is available at www.usatopdentists.com. For more information call 706-364-0853; write P.O. Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903; email help@usatopdentists.com; or visit www.usatopdentists.com.

SELECTION PROCESS

“If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer them to?”

This is the question we’ve asked thousands of dentists to help us determine who the topDentists should be. Dentists and specialists are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies, and of course physical results.

The nomination pool of dentists consists of dentists listed online with the American Dental Association, as well as dentists listed online with their local dental societies, thus allowing virtually every dentist the opportunity to participate. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists that they feel should be included in our list. Respondents are asked to put aside any

DISCLAIMER: This list is excerpted from the 2022 topDentists™ list, which includes listings for more than 130 dentists and specialists in the Memphis metropolitan area. For more information call 706-364-0853 or email help@usatopdentists.com or visit www. usatopdentists.com. topDentists has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Copyright 2009-2022 by topDentists, Augusta, GA. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without permission of topDentists. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of the information in this list without permission.

ENDODONTICS

CHRISTIAN CAIN

Memphis Endodontics

1755 Kirby Parkway, Suite 103, Memphis, TN 38120 901-737-1927

www.memphisrootcanal.com

KENAN D. CLINTON 6401 Poplar Avenue, Suite 260, Memphis, TN 38119 901-682-8847

www.clintonendo.com

PAUL M. CURTIS, JR. 2804 East Matthews Avenue, Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-972-6226

BRADLEY M. HARRIS Memphis Endodontics 1755 Kirby Parkway, Suite 103, Memphis, TN 38120 901-761-0180

www.memphisrootcanal.com

personal bias or political motivations and to use only their knowledge of their peer’s work when evaluating the other nominees.

Voters are asked to individually evaluate the practitioners on their ballot whose work they are familiar with. Once the balloting is completed, the scores are compiled and then averaged. The numerical average required for inclusion varies depending on the average for all the nominees within the specialty and the geographic area. Borderline cases are given careful consideration by the editors. Voting characteristics and comments are taken into consideration while making decisions. Past awards a dentist has received and status in various dental academies can play a factor in our decision.

Once the decisions have been finalized, the included dentists are checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Then letters of congratulations are sent to all the listed dentists.

Of course, there are many fine dentists who are not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in the United States. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow dentists. While it is true that the lists may at times disproportionately reward visibility or popularity, we remain confident that our polling methodology largely corrects for any biases and that these lists continue to represent the most reliable, accurate, and useful list of dentists available anywhere.

JOHN KLECKER

Mid South Endodontics

1918 Exeter Road, Building E, Units 1 & 3, Germantown, TN 38138 901-207-8686 www.midsouthendodontics.com

MICHAEL P. LOWERY

North Mississippi Endodontics

5740 Getwell Road, Suite 10-A, Southaven, MS 38672 662-890-3196 www.northmsendo.com

EDWARD M. MACK

Mack Endodontics

704 West Brookhaven Circle, Memphis, TN 38117 901-683-2221

www.mackendodontics.com

BRYCE F. MCCREARY

McCreary Endodontics

7865 Educators Lane, Suite 120, Memphis, TN 38133 901-380-7994

www.mccrearyendodontics.com

BRANDON SCOTT

Memphis Endodontics

1755 Kirby Parkway, Suite 103, Memphis, TN 38120 901-737-1927

www.memphisrootcanal.com

L. KEVIN WELLS

Memphis Endodontics

1755 Kirby Parkway, Suite 103, Memphis, TN 38120 901-761-0180

www.memphisrootcanal.com

GENERAL DENTISTRY

JEREMY L. ADAMS

Hilltop Family Dentistry

3299 East Johnson Avenue, Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-933-1900

www.hilltopfamilydentistry.com

JOSEPH B. ADKINS

6800 Poplar Avenue, Suite 220, Memphis, TN 38138 901-685-2010 www.jadkinsdds.com

MARIO ALFONSO

7085 Swinnea Road, Suite A, Southaven, MS 38671 662-349-3038 www.marioalfonsodds.com

MARY A. AUBERTIN

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry

875 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6227 www.uthsc.edu/dentistry

JAMES G. AVERY

Avery & Meadows & Page 3491 Walnut Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38111 901-452-0040 www.averyandmeadows.com

TY H. BARKLEY

2008 Exeter Road, Germantown, TN 38138 901-755-4132 www.tybarkleydds.com

C. DAN BELLOTT

Audubon Dental Group 670 Colonial Road, Suite 3, Memphis, TN 38117 901-761-5232 www.audubondentalgroupmemphis.com

BLAKE T. BILLUPS

5170 Sanderlin Avenue, Suite 203, Memphis, TN 38117 901-767-3603

ALAN O. BLANTON

Aesthetic Dentistry of Collierville 362 New Byhalia Road, Suite 3, Collierville, TN 38017 901-853-8116 www.mycolliervilledentist.com

M. WADE CLAYTON

Bellano Dental Health 1329 Cordova Cove, Germantown, TN 38138 901-509-2823 www.bellanodental.com

JENNIFER D. COCHRAN

Evergreen Family Dentistry 1723 Kirby Parkway, Memphis, TN 38120 901-757-9696 www.evergreenfamilydentistry.com

JOHN S. COVINGTON III

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry

875 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-8609 www.academic.uthsc.edu/faculty

RYAN K. DAGEN

Dental Excellence

5180 Park Avenue, Suite 310, Memphis, TN 38119 901-685-1152 www.dentalexcellencepc.com

SCOTT A. EDWARDS

6250 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38119 901-681-0011 www.scottedwardsdds.com

MIKE FARRAR

Elite Dental Care

9064 Corporate Gardens Drive, Germantown, TN 38138 901-751-3776 www.elitedentalcare.com

2022 TOP DENTISTS 2022 TOP DENTISTS

DIANE FLEXSENHAR

Germantown Advanced Dentistry 7938 Wolf River Boulevard, Germantown, TN 38138 901-754-3117 www. germantownadvanceddentistry.com

CLAYTON C. FLORIANI

Pediatric Dental Group & Orthodontics

7675 Wolf River Circle, Suite 102, Germantown, TN 38138 901-363-8191 www.pdgosmiles.com

JEFF P. FRIZZELL

785 Estate Place, Suite 2, Memphis, TN 38120 901-766-9002 www.jeffpfrizzelldds.com

S. DWAIN GAITHER

Quail Hollow Family Dentistry

6425 Quail Hollow Road, Suite 102, Memphis, TN 38120 901-767-3020 www.quailhollowfamilydentistry. com

ALEXANDRA GARRETT

Germantown Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

9054 Forest Centre Drive, Suite 2, Germantown, TN 38138 901-347-3527 www.alexandragarrettdds.com

TODD D. GRUEN

Germantown Dental Group 2165 West Street, Germantown, TN 38138 901-754-0540 www.memphissmiledesigns.com

LAWRENCE A. HIGGINBOTHAM

Dental Partners - White Station 717 South White Station Road, Suite 8, Memphis, TN 38117 901-245-0792 www.familydentalmemphis.com

DAVID T. KIZER

Kizer Dental Associates 7685 Wolf River Circle, Suite 102, Germantown, TN 38138 901-767-4882 www.kizerdentalassociates.com

ELIZABETH H. LEE

Dr. Lee’s Beautiful Smiles 5180 Park Avenue, Suite 280, Memphis, TN 38119 901-763-1600 www.elizabethleedds.com

STEPHEN J. LINDSEY

Dental Excellence 5180 Park Avenue, Suite 310, Memphis, TN 38119 901-685-1152 www.dentalexcellencepc.com

MARK C. MACGAW

Modern Dentistry of Memphis 6750 Poplar Avenue, Suite 700, Germantown, TN 38138 901-761-3726 www.moderndentistrymemphis.com

DAN T. MEADOWS

Avery & Meadows & Page 3491 Walnut Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38111 901-452-0040 www.averyandmeadows.com

ANDREW D. MEFFORD Bellano Dental Health 2705 Appling Road, Suite 101, Memphis, TN 38133 901-388-9110 www.bellanodental.com

ELIZABETH G. MITCHELL

The 901 Dentist 795 Ridge Lake Boulevard, Suite 106, Memphis, TN 38120 901-756-1151 www.the901dentist.com

S. JEFFERSON MOORE, JR. Olive Branch Dental Care 8935 Goodman Road, Olive Branch, MS 38654 662-895-5012 www.olivebranchdental.com

CLAY T. NELSON 871 Mount Moriah Road, Memphis, TN 38117 901-682-4366

KALEB J. PAGE

Avery & Meadows & Page 3491 Walnut Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38111 901-452-0040 www.averyandmeadows.com

STEVEN M. PARKHURST Parkhurst & Savage 730 Crossover Lane, Memphis, TN 38117 901-683-4369 www.drparkhurst.com

MICHAEL L. PARRISH 6363 Stage Road, Bartlett, TN 38134 901-386-5757 www.parrishdentistry.com

MINESH Y. PATEL Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of Memphis 845 South Highland Street, Memphis, TN 38111 901-323-8488 www.fcdmemphis.com

NISHEL PATEL Wilson Dental Care 7520 Enterprise Avenue, Germantown, TN 38138 901-751-1100 www.wilsondentalcare.net

PATRICK R. PERSON 7675 Wolf River Circle, Suite 201, Germantown, TN 38138 901-681-0777 www.persondds.com

LLEWELLYN POWELL DeSoto Dental Services 3451 Goodman Road, Suite 122, Southaven, MS 38672 662-892-8535 www.desotodentalservices.com

J. EDWARD RATHER, JR.

1228 Goodman Road East, Suite 2, Southaven, MS 38671 662-349-0089 www.dredwardrather.com

JOHN G. REDDICK

Modern Dentistry of Memphis 6750 Poplar Avenue, Suite 700, Germantown, TN 38138 901-761-3726 www.moderndentistrymemphis.com

KEVIN D. REED

Reed Family Dentistry 8020 U.S. Highway 51 North, Millington, TN 38053 901-872-3391 www.reedfamilydentistry.com

CHRISTINA ROSENTHAL

Paradigm Dental Center 4730 Riverdale Road, Suite 3, Memphis, TN 38141 901-758-2127 www.paradigmdentalcenter.com

MEHDI SADEGHI

Smile Center Memphis

1941 South Germantown Road, Suite 101, Germantown, TN 38138 901-309-1333 www.smilecentermemphis.com

MICHAEL K. SAVAGE

Parkhurst & Savage

730 Crossover Lane, Memphis, TN 38117 901-683-4369 www.drparkhurst.com

DORY F. SELLERS

Grove Park Dental Group 4515 Poplar Avenue, Suite 406, Memphis, TN 38117 901-683-9800 www.groveparkdentalgroup.com

MARK S. SMITH

Kizer Dental Associates 7685 Wolf River Circle, Suite 102, Germantown, TN 38138 901-767-4882 www.kizerdentalassociates.com

GEORGE W. SORRELLS III 623 North Missouri Street, West Memphis, AR 72301 870-732-5100

JOHN D. THOMAS, JR.

Wolf River Dental Care 278 German Oak Drive, Cordova, TN 38018 901-753-9005 www.bestcordovadentist.com

ORPHEUS TRIPLETT

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry 875 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-2064 www.uthsc.edu/dentistry

RICHARD J. VAN SICKLE 2835 Summer Oaks Drive, Bartlett, TN 38134 901-372-7283 www.vansickledds.com

At Periodontal Associates of Memphis, our team is dedicated to the highest level of periodontal care.

What is periodontics?

Periodontists are dentists who treat the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth. This specialty concentrates on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of periodontal disease, dental implants, regeneration of gum and bone, and maintenance of the health, function and esthetics of your jaws and gums.

How are periodontists trained?

Like general dentists, periodontists must complete a bachelor’s degree and attend dental school to obtain a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). Dentists who want to specialize in periodontics may then obtain three additional years of education in periodontics and a Ph.D. After their education is complete, they are licensed through a process of written and practical exams administered by the state. Licensure leads to a residency spanning 30 to 36 months in a university, hospital or medical practice. Periodontists are also required to complete regular continuing education.

What is a Board-certified periodontist and dental implant surgeon?

What is a Board-certified periodontist and dental implant surgeon?

While training for periodontics is lengthy and comprehensive, licensed periodontists can advance even further by earning Board certification through the American Board of Periodontology. Board certification includes a comprehensive written examination as well as an oral examination. After certification is granted, it needs to be maintained through self-study, continuing education and periodic testing.

Committed to periodontal excellence.

Dr. Mitchel S. Godat and Dr. Grant T. King both are diplomates of the American Board of Periodontology and are Board certified in both periodontics and dental implant surgery. Diplomates of the American Board of Periodontology are members of a special group of practitioners who made significant achievements beyond the mandatory requirements. In addition to their specialty certification, Dr. Godat and Dr. King both earned master’s degrees in periodontology.

The exceptional team at Periodontal Associates of Memphis is ready to help you smile again.

Grant T. King, DDS, MDS (left)

Mitchel S. Godat, DDS, MS (right)

RYAN E. VICK

Forest Hill Dental

3011 Centre Oak Way, Suite 102, Germantown, TN 38138 901-701-7500 www.vickdds.com

STANLEY R. WADDELL

Waddell Restorative Dentistry 1900 Kirby Parkway, Suite 200, Germantown, TN 38138 901-756-8855 www.drwaddell.com

BRANDON A. WEBB

Webb Family Dentistry 2206 Fowler Avenue, Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-933-8444 www.webbfamilydentistry.net

NEIL B. WESTON

Weston Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

7500 Enterprise Avenue, Germantown, TN 38138 901-754-3562 www.neilwestondds.com

JOHN R. WHITTEMORE

Germantown Dental Group 2165 West Street, Germantown, TN 38138 901-754-0540 www.memphissmiledesigns.com

CHARLYN A. WILSON

Wilson Dental Care 7520 Enterprise Avenue, Germantown, TN 38138 901-751-1100 www.wilsondentalcare.net

GARY T. WILSON, JR.

5565 Murray Road, Suite 202, Memphis, TN 38119 901-761-3456 www.garywilsondds.com

MARK E. WIYGUL 5340 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2, Memphis, TN 38119 901-683-7771

E. JACK WOHRMAN, JR.

6363 Poplar Avenue, Suite 430, Memphis, TN 38119 901-761-3040

CHARLES S. WOOD, JR.

Wood Dental Group

715 Calvin Avery Drive, West Memphis, AR 72301 870-735-3601 www.wooddental.net

MARJORIE A. WOODS

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry

875 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6227 www.uthsc.edu/dentistry

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

BRYAN C. DARLING

The Oral & Implant Surgery Center 317 Southwest Drive, Suite A, Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-933-1221

www.theoralandimplantsurgerycenter.com

2022 TOP DENTISTS

AMIR FRANCIS

Williams and Francis Oral and Facial Surgery

1100 Poplar View Lane North, Suite 1, Collierville, TN 38017 901-854-4422 www.williamsfrancis.com

K. MARCUS HOPKINS

Maroda & Hopkins 2136 Exeter Road, Suite 202, Germantown, TN 38138 901-754-8002 www.marodahopkins.com

STEPHEN J. MARODA, JR. Maroda & Hopkins 2136 Exeter Road, Suite 202, Germantown, TN 38138 901-754-8002 www.marodahopkins.com

RUSSELL C. PECK

766 South White Station Road, Suite 1, Memphis, TN 38119 901-685-8090 www.memphisoralsurgery.com

STEPHEN B. SEXTON

Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

1661 Aaron Brenner Drive, Suite 105, Memphis, TN 38120 901-756-8475 www.sextonoms.com

ROBERT K. SMITH

766 South White Station Road, Suite 1, Memphis, TN 38117 901-685-8090 www.memphisoralsurgery.com

RONALD C. STAPLES

Memphis Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Group

6584 Poplar Avenue, Suite 101, Memphis, TN 38138 901-443-1744 www.momsg.org

JOHN C. SWEARINGEN Bluff City Oral Surgery 780 Ridge Lake Boulevard, Suite 101, Memphis, TN 38120 901-682-8431 www.bluffcityoralsurgery.com

SCOTT A. WEISKOPF

Sexton Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

1661 Aaron Brenner Drive, Suite 105, Memphis, TN 38120 901-756-8475 www.sextonoms.com

DARREN R. WILLIAMS

Williams & Francis

1100 Poplar View Lane North, Suite 1, Collierville, TN 38017 901-854-4422 www.williamsfrancis.com

G. TRENT WILSON McRae-Wilson Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Group 5565 Murray Road, Memphis, TN 38119 901-767-0088 www.mcraewilsonoms.com

STEVEN ZAMBRANO

Cordova Oral, Facial and Implant Surgery 915 Willow Tree Circle, Cordova, TN 38018 901-755-6724 www.cordovaoralsurgery.com

ORAL PATHOLOGY

K. MARK ANDERSON

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry

875 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-4559 www.uthsc.edu/dentistry

ORTHODONTICS

TAYLOR A. COLLAZO Pediatric Dental Group 1365 South Germantown Road, Germantown, TN 38138 901-363-8191 www.pdgosmiles.com

DAVID H. CROWDER 6597 Summer Knoll Cove, Bartlett, TN 38134 901-382-8611 www.drdavidcrowder.com

KYLE D. FAGALA Saddle Creek Orthodontics 2176 West Street, Suite 320, Germantown, TN 38138 901-726-3878 www.saddlecreekortho.com

KELLY-GWYNNE FERGUS Fergus Orthodontics 2812 Harrisburg Road, Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-336-3366 www.fergusortho.com

CHRISTOPHER H. GETMAN

Getman Orthodontics 9067 Poplar Avenue, Suite 113, Germantown, TN 38138 901-843-2483 www.getmanortho.com

BRENTON E. GLASSELL Weiss & Glassell Orthodontics 5885 Ridgeway Center Parkway, Suite 200, Memphis, TN 38120 901-767-7370 www.weissorthodontics.com

NATHAN R. HAMMAN Williams & Hamman Orthodontics 399 Southcrest Court, Suite B, Southaven, MS 38671 662-349-2196 www.whortho.com

MICHELLE G. JOHNSON 6551 Stage Oaks Drive, Suite 2, Bartlett, TN 38134 901-386-5800 www.johnsonortho.com

WILLIAM G. PARRIS

Parris Orthodontics 2136 Exeter Road, Suite 201, Germantown, TN 38138 901-683-6387 www.parrisorthodontics.com

QUINTON C. ROBINSON III

5180 Park Avenue, Suite 260, Memphis, TN 38119 901-683-6770 www.quintonrobinson.com

W. COOPER SANDUSKY III

Sandusky Orthodontics 6262 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38119 901-761-3700 www.sanduskyorthodontics.com

KEVIN C. UTLEY

Utley Orthodontics

298 Germantown Bend Cove, Suite 1, Cordova, TN 38018 901-756-6200 www.utleyorthodontics.com

KOLIN WEAVER

Weaver Orthodontics

2316 Red Wolf Boulevard, Suite C, Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-972-5445 www.dreamweaversmiles.com

SCOTT P. WERNER

Memphis Orthodontic Specialists 6425 North Quail Hollow Road, Suite 201, Memphis, TN 38120 901-767-5415 www.wernerorthodontics.com

STANLEY P. WERNER

Memphis Orthodontic Specialists 6425 North Quail Hollow Road, Suite 201, Memphis, TN 38120 901-767-5415 www.wernerorthodontics.com

TOMMY N. WHITED

940 South Collierville-Arlington Road, Suite 109, Collierville, TN 38017 901-850-1118 www.drwhitedortho.com

J. PHILIP WIYGUL

5340 Poplar Avenue, Suite 1, Memphis, TN 38119 901-682-4007 wiygulorthodontics.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

MICHAEL D. BLEN

Pediatric Dentistry

6363 Poplar Avenue, Suite 110, Memphis, TN 38119 901-415-2536 www.drblen.com

CAROLINE H. CHURCHWELL

Churchwell Pediatric Dentistry

1099 Poplar View Lane North, Collierville, TN 38017 901-854-9555 www.churchwellpediatricdentistry. com

MOLLY M. CHURCHWELL

Churchwell Pediatric Dentistry

1099 Poplar View Lane North, Collierville, TN 38017 901-854-9555 www.churchwellpediatricdentistry. com

ALKA V. COHEN

Cohen Pediatric Dentistry

8142 Country Village Drive, Suite 101, Cordova, TN 38016 901-756-4447

DANIEL D. FREEMAN

Freeman Pediatric Dentistry 2567 Appling Road, Memphis, TN 38133 901-383-7337 www.childdentalcare.com

2022 TOP DENTISTS

STEVEN J. FUSON

Pediatric Dental Group

7675 Wolf River Circle, Suite 102, Germantown, TN 38138 901-363-8191 www.pdgosmiles.com

B. WES MCCANN, JR. McCann Pediatric Dentistry

5885 Ridgeway Center Parkway, Suite 230, Memphis, TN 38120 901-767-9200 www.mccanndentistry.com

S. MEADE MOORE III

Meade Moore Pediatric Dentistry 1908 Exeter Road, Germantown, TN 38138 901-683-3993 www.germantowndds4kids.com

CHRIS C. ROWLAND

Childrens Dental Center

3394 South Houston Levee Road, Germantown, TN 38139 901-250-1466 www.dentistjustforkids.com

J.B. SELECMAN

Childrens Dental Center 3394 South Houston Levee Road, Germantown, TN 38139 901-250-1466 www.dentistjustforkids.com

MELANIE L. SHAW-NESBITT

All About Kids Pediatric Dentistry 3285 Hacks Cross Road, Suite 101, Memphis, TN 38125 901-759-0970 www.pediatricdentistmemphis.com

SUMMER B. TYSON

Jonesboro Pediatric Dental Group 620 Southwest Drive, Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-336-9700 www.jonesboropediatricdentalgroup.com

MARTHA H. WELLS

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry 875 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6615 www.uthsc.edu/dentistry

BRADLEY W. WILKINSON

Pediatric Dental Specialties 5040 Sanderlin Avenue, Suite 101, Memphis, TN 38117 901-761-5155 www.drbradwilkinson.com

GREGORY T. WILKINSON

Wilkinson Orthodontics and Children’s Dentistry 5610 Murray Road, Memphis, TN 38119 901-767-3390 www.gregwilkinsondds.com

KENNETH I. WOOD

Leap Kids Dental 809 Windover Road, Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-497-2257 www.leapkidsdental.com

PERIODONTICS

PRADEEP C. ADATROW

Advanced Dental & TMJ Center

7135 Getwell Road, Suite 100, Southaven, MS 38672 662-655-4868 www.advanceddentaltmj.com

MITCHEL S. GODAT

Periodontal Associates of Memphis 6268 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38119 901-761-3770 www.periomem.com

ANASTASIOS KARYDIS

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry 875 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6242 www.uthsc.edu/dentistry

GRANT T. KING

Periodontal Associates of Memphis 6268 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38119 901-761-3770 www.periomem.com

EDWARD S. LANE II Memphis Periodontal Group 5565 Murray Road, Suite 101, Memphis, TN 38119 901-767-8152

www.memphisperiodontal.com

PAUL G. LUEPKE

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry 875 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6200 www.uthsc.edu/dentistry/educational-programs/ departments/periodontology.php

MICHAEL L. THOMPSON

Thompson Periodontics & Implant Dentistry 2737 Paula Drive, Jonesboro, AR 72404 870-932-0015

www.thompsonperioandimplants.com

J. STEPHEN WEIR

5348 Estate Office Drive, Suite 1, Memphis, TN 38119 901-763-4700 www.jstephenweirdds.com

PROSTHODONTICS

DAVID R. CAGNA

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry 875 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6930

MARC A. COHEN

Prostho Dental

5356 Estate Office Drive, Suite 1, Memphis, TN 38119 901-680-0823 www.mcohendds.com

CARL W. SCHULTER

Dental Implant Aesthetic Center

795 Ridge Lake Boulevard, Suite 101, Memphis, TN 38120 901-682-5001 www.dentalimplantac.com

AUDREY M. SELECMAN

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry 875 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6930 www.uthsc.edu/dentistry/ MICHAEL A. SMITH

3106 Professional Plaza Drive, Germantown, TN 38138 901-309-6821

www.greatsouthernsmiles.com

PRADEEP ADATROW, the founder of Advanced Dental Implant and TMJ Center has over 19 years of expertise in education as well as extensive practice in the clinical world of dentistry. He is the only one of his kind in the tri-state area that holds dual specialist certifications in his field; being a periodontal & Dental implant Surgeon and a Prosthodontist.

Before opening a private practice, Dr. Adatrow taught at the University of Tennessee for twelve years as a Professor and Clinical Director of Prosthodontics at the University of Tennessee.

Founded in 2016, patients from far and wide travel to this state of the art facility to experience a world class treatment. Advanced Dental is conveniently located in Southaven, MS at the cross-section of Goodman and Getwell; a short drive from Memphis. Upon entering the doors, it is clear that this facility

is family focused and prides themselves on patient education and full transparency during each step of the dental process.

Not only will you find Desoto County’s board-certified dual specialist for gum disease treatment, dental implants, and TMJ/TMD therapy at Advanced Dental, but also the option for sedation dentistry. Dr. Adatrow has been instrumental in teaching hundreds of dental students, placed more than 10,000 implants and helped hundreds of patients suffering with TMJ disorders and gum diseases.

His team is dedicated to helping every patient experience a difference in every visit. With this as their number one goal, the Advanced Dental Team and Dr. Adatrow are dedicated to creating the most pleasant and comfortable environment possible, and to nurture connections with their patients that last a lifetime.

AS SOON AS YOU WALK IN THE DOOR, you will see a different type of dental care. Alexandra Garrett and Germantown Cosmetic and Family Dentistry have offered the highest quality comprehensive dental services to the Germantown/Memphis area for more than 20 years. Dr. Garrett and team focus on cosmetic and family dentistry with the goal of elevating one self’s image in a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. Their team offers kind, compassionate care to each patient, coupled with state-of-the-art 3D equipment, with Same

Day Crowns, Invisalign, and all digital x-rays. A professional favorite is when Dr Garrett transforms a patient’s smile to help transform the way they feel. Other services include treating the entire family from toddlers to grandparents, as well as facial aesthetics, such as Botox and Juvederm, to complement your beautiful smile with a fresher, more youthful overall appearance. Their goal is to keep your teeth and gums healthy while helping you feel and look your best. Visit their website, www.GtownSmiles.com, to learn more about their dental experience.

CREATING BEAUTIFUL SMILES is what Dr. Miles Moore does best. Dr. Moore, along with the rest of his team at Memphis Center for Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, specializes in the latest dental technologies, while offering an office environment that is both calming and friendly. Not only does Dr. Moore approach each patient with compassion and respect, but he is also committed to finding the best solutions for every dental problem.

Whether you are seeking a complete smile makeover, “invisible” braces, or teeth

whitening, Dr. Moore can transform your smile with an array of cosmetic dentistry options. If you are looking for ways to make your or a family member’s smile healthier, the office treats patients of all ages with general dentistry services.

Memphis Center for Family & Cosmetic Dentistry’s convenient location and dedication to serving patients has made it a Memphis favorite for years. After one appointment, you’ll see what a difference Dr. Moore makes!

BELLANO DENTAL

PASSIONATE ABOUT PEOPLE, PARTICULAR ABOUT TEETH — Established and run by local dentists, Bellano has multiple convenient locations in East Memphis, Bartlett, and Germantown offering preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Patients can experience happier, healthier lives through better oral health and services that include Invisalign, same-day crowns, advanced inoffice whitening, implants, and veneers in addition to regular cleanings and routine care. The Bellano Dental Savings Plan is available to patients who do not have dental insurance, helping them plan for and prioritize their oral health. Visit Dr. Wade Clayton, Dr. Drew Mefford, Dr. Terry Turner, Dr. Dana Henry, Dr. Lance Ashlock, Dr. Katie Bell, and Dr. Pat Barnes to experience a united team committed to respectful, empathetic, and informative care for patients.

CHRISTINA T. ROSENTHAL DDS, MPH

DR. CHRISTINA T. ROSENTHAL graduated magna cum laude from the University of Memphis, earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree from the University of Tennessee’s College of Dentistry, and a Master’s in Public Health from Harvard University. A practicing general dentist, she’s also the founder of globally recognized, non-profit, The 516 Foundation, with its primary initiative, Determined to be a Doctor Someday (D.D.S.), created to encourage underrepresented students to pursue healthcare careers. She is author of the children’s book, You Can Become a Doctor Too, and motivates audiences through her speaking company, Prescribing Inspiration LLC.

RYAN VICK, DDS

WORLD CLASS COSMETIC and comprehensive dentistry is what to expect when visiting Dr. Ryan Vick.

Dr. Vick is passionate about his patients’ smiles and helping them to achieve and maintain optimal oral health, as a beautiful smile can completely improve one’s self image and confidence, and is a pillar of having great overall health. He believes that this starts with spending the time to create a trusting, lasting relationship with his patients.

Patients can expect a preventative and comprehensive approach to oral health. Sedation dentistry allows them to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile in a relaxed environment. Dr. Vick also uses state-of-the-art technology, along with conservative techniques, to deliver lifelong lasting smiles.

Dr. Vick is a proud member of: The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, The American Dental Association, The Tennessee Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and he also serves on the board of the Memphis Dental Society.

Dr. Vick offers a full array of general dentistry and cosmetic dental services, and is welcoming new patients.

FOREST HILL DENTAL

3011 Centre Oak Way Suite 102 Germantown, TN 38138 901.701.7500 • vickdds.com

Life on the Bright Side

2022 INNOVATION AWARDS

Just look around town, and you’ll see something new and exciting. Memphis has long been a hub for innovators, a space that cultivates creativity and constantly pushes thinkers and creators forward until they reach that elusive lightbulb moment. In 2022, for our tenth annual Innovation Awards , Inside Memphis Business features four progress-minded individuals who are showcasing Memphis’ continued evolution through innovation. And like every year, we had plenty of candidates to choose from, spanning industries as diverse as philanthropy and medicine. is year, we recognize Roshun Austin and The Works ’ efforts to combat Memphis food deserts, West Cancer Center’s Drs. Michael Berry and Richard Fine’s use of AI imaging technology to assist with breast cancer surgery, Idicula MathewandHera Health Solutions’ unique approach to contraceptives via a biodegradable arm implant, and Howard Robertson’s digital home for all manner of Black-owned radio stations and podcasts. ey’re all worthy winners in their own right, and are doing their utmost to move Memphis forward. — Samuel X. Cicci

Honoring the very best in local innovation.

ROSHUN AUSTIN THE WORKS’ MOBILE FOOD GROCER

BY ABIGAIL MORICI

A healed femur, twentieth-century anthropologist Margaret Mead declared, was the first sign of civilization. It meant that someone had carried another to safety, fed them, and tended to their needs, while that person, unable to walk, rested for six weeks. It was this act of caring, this act of community, she decided, that distinguishes humans from the beasts that roam the earth.

Since those very first signs of humanity, however, “We forgot how to be civilized,” says Roshun Austin, president and CEO of e Works Inc. “We said some of our people get to live in squalor.” An anthropologist by training, Austin saw the effects of this thinking, having grown up in poverty in South Memphis, and she now works to counteract the situation in her professional life. “I always refer to my work as going back to the beginning, back to the basics of building shelter and locating food sources.”

e Works Inc. started in 1998 with a focus on affordable housing, but about 12 years ago, two years before Austin took on her role, the organization entered the food-security arena. “ at work grew out of a comprehensive neighborhood plan,” she says. “It’s not just about building physical structures. If we’re not building up people, we’re not building up community.”

Part of this arose from e Works’ focus on community engagement. “We need to ask questions about what people want in our neighborhoods,” Austin explains. “I don’t know what people want until they tell me their desires.” And the people e Works serves wanted and needed access to quality food. Dubbed the “Hunger Capital” of the U.S. by e Guardian, Memphis is dotted with food deserts, typically low-income

areas without grocery stores for nearby residents and instead dominated by the limited and often less nourishing options of convenience stores and fastfood outlets. In South Memphis, particularly, e Works aimed to address this problem by creating the South Memphis Farmers Market in 2010 as a way to provide fresh groceries. In 2014, e Works built a year-round, brickand-mortar grocery store, e Grocer, by the Farmers Market at 1400 Mississippi Blvd., with goods sold at affordable prices for the low-income community it serves.

e Grocer also houses e Kitchen, which offers free cooking classes with lessons on nutrition, smart grocery shopping, and nutritionally rich recipes. “ e reason we ended up with e Kitchen,” says Austin, “is that we also discovered that our ZIP code at the time, 38106, had the lowest life expectancy in Shelby County. e difference was 13 years between us and Collierville east of us. A lot of it was metabolic and diet-related, and so we needed to address not just [Memphians’] access to produce, but how they prepare it.” is work drew the attention of e Guardian, which in 2019 made a mini-documentary about e Works as part of its online

Divided Cities series. In turn, the documentary drew the attention of nearby Kroger executives, who introduced Austin to the concept of what would become e Works’ next initiative: a mobile grocery store.

In January 2020, Austin met with Kroger corporate officials based in Louisville, and they showed her their grocery store on wheels. e idea originated from a food bank in Wisconsin, she says. “And I’m like, ‘Why in the world haven’t you brought that to Memphis?’” From that moment, the plan was to partner with Kroger to bring a mobile grocery store to Memphis. “But then there’s a pandemic.”

After months of supply-chain issues and hesitation on Kroger’s end, e Works embarked on the project on their own with funding from philanthropic partners.

ey placed a down payment on a trailer, hired a commercially licensed driver, and found a heavy-duty Ford F-450 pickup truck to tow everything. After two more years of supply-chain woes and outfitting the trailer to store all the food properly, the Mobile Food Grocer made its first stop in the Klondike Smokey City neighborhood on October 12th of this year.

Since then, the mobile grocer has phased in other stops in

Roshun Austin and The Works Inc. have been working to fix the problem of food deserts in Memphis for years. The Mobile Grocer is their latest venture, bringing fresh produce and other goods to North Memphis neighborhoods.

North Memphis neighborhoods. Eventually, Austin says, the grocer will do two stops a day, five days a week, at 10 locations. “It’s open to anybody in those communities.”

Like e Grocer, the mobile store partnered with Rick James, owner and CEO of Castle Retail Group, as a supplier, so that the products can be sold at Cash Saver’s affordable prices. e Works also offers an incentive program for purchasing produce, where the organization will place up to $20 on a reloadable card for every $20 SNAP recipients spend on produce. For seniors, who do not receive SNAP, the organization will match up to $10.

Ultimately, Austin says of this work, “We don't want to be in that business long-term. Ideally, we are revitalizing neighborhoods to attract full-service grocers.” Until then — until civilization returns to its core of compassion — e Works will continue listening to and building up the communities it serves.

A new mobile grocer moves within food deserts in North Memphis to provide fresh groceries and revitalize neighborhoods.

DR. MICHAEL BERRY AND DR. RICHARD FINE WEST

CANCER CENTER

BY JON W. SPARKS

The war against cancer is waged on many fronts, and a team at West Cancer Center is at the forefront of a key battle.

Dr. Michael Berry and Dr. Richard Fine are breast surgeons at Margaret West Comprehensive Breast Center. It’s common for patients with breast cancer to undergo breast-conserving surgery called a lumpectomy. e operation leaves the healthy breast intact, compared to a mastectomy, which involves removal

of the entire breast. e goal of a lumpectomy is to remove all the cancer while preserving as much tissue as possible.

Fine describes the challenge: “For a lumpectomy to be successful, there must be a rim of healthy tissue around the removed cancerous tumor, referred to as a clean or negative margin. After surgery, the cancerous tissue is sent to pathology for microscopic evaluation to confirm whether any cancer cells remain, which takes several days. If the pathology report finds positive margins — meaning cancer cells were still detected — the surgeon typically must bring the patient back for another surgery

to remove more tissue.”

Even with new technology and skilled surgeons, there is still about a 1 in 5 chance that the patient will need a repeat surgery. In an effort to bring down that ratio, the Clinical Research Department at West Cancer Center has begun working with technology from Perimeter Medical Imaging.

“Optical Coherence Tomography [OCT] is a light-based imaging method to identify evidence of cancer cells near the edge, or margin, of the tumor during surgery,” Fine says. “With a resolution 10 times that of ultrasound and X-ray, and 100 that of MRI, it can visualize margins at the cel-

lular level, especially beneficial for difficult-to-detect cancers.”

OCT is non-invasive and provides images of subsurface tissue structures. e use of light instead of sound allows better resolution than an ultrasound. It can, in real time, visualize blood vessels, ducts, glands, and surrounding structures.

West Cancer Center is the first clinical trial site to test a new version of the technology. Fine says, “ is trial is evaluating the use of artificial intelligence software to support the surgeon’s clinical decision-making in the operating room during the initial surgery versus waiting several days for the pathology report to come back. is could help reduce the likelihood of having patients return for a second surgery due to cancer left behind.”

Innovation is crucial to expanding the impact of cancer research. e clinical trial headed by Fine and Berry will help evaluate how the AI and imaging technology stacks up against current standards of care for breast cancer patients. If the trial goes as researchers hope, then a new standard of care could emerge. Furthermore,

Even with current technology, there is a 1 in 5 chance that breast cancer patients will need a repeat surgery. Dr. Michael Berry (upper left) and Dr. Richard Fine, breast surgeons at the Margaret West Comprehensive Breast Center, are trialing AI and advanced imaging technology from Perimeter Medical Imaging to find better outcomes for patients.

if this is the case, then the OCT technology could be used to take on a variety of other cancers.

e challenge for the trial is making the technology available universally. “Because this is still in a study program, the number of patients eligible to participate is limited,” Fine says. “Our West network is proud to be one of the few clinical trial sites across the country to offer this technology.”

For Fine and Berry, the partnership with Perimeter Medical Imaging allowed them to be the first team in the Mid-South to investigate this option that, if successful, could make a significant difference to patients.

West Cancer Center team uses AI tech to find better outcomes for breast cancer patients.

IDICULA MATHEW HERA HEALTH SOLUTIONS

Hera Health Solutions’ biodegradable implant Eucontra changes the game for contraceptives.

BY SAMUEL X. CICCI

S afe, discreet, and long-lasting. ose are the key words Idicula Mathew has focused on for years when it comes to creating a unique contraceptive. As co-founder and CEO of Hera Health Solutions, he’s spent the past couple of years developing Eucontra, a new approach to birth control. Unlike conventional arm implants, there’s one key difference: Hera’s is designed to be biodegradable within the body. Currently pending FDA approval, Eucontra is set to provide a safe and long-lasting birth control alternative around the globe.

Mathew first came up with the idea in 2015 while studying as a material sciences researcher at Georgia Tech, and calls the research-to-startup process “serendipity” for the way his ideas came together. As part of his program, he spent 20 hours a week in the local Atlanta emergency health department and saw many implant-removal procedures go awry.

“I worked at the place where people would have birth control arm implants removed,” he recalls. “ e radiology department was where they’d send anyone who had adverse effects or complications during the explantation process, and I kept seeing these issues over and over again. Scarring, implant migration within the body, and it was expensive to fix these problems.”

At the same time, Mathew studied in a material science lab that worked on bio-erodible polymers for medical devices, and he noticed that they weren’t being used in a way that would aid drug delivery. If he could fit these two puzzle pieces together, it could create a safer, more accessible way to provide contraceptive access.

“It became the question of,

‘Hey, there’s a problem in this space. How do we fix it?’” he says. “And I felt like the answer was there in front of my face, but we still had to take the concept of bio-erodible polymers and figure out how to successfully deliver a drug.”

He ran with the idea and eventually founded Hera Health Solutions in 2018, with the goal of creating a biodegradable drug delivery implant that could be used for a wide variety of medical conditions. Originally based in Atlanta, Hera applied to the ZeroTo510 medical startup program in Memphis. As a condition for participating, the company had to move its headquarters to the Bluff City. Mathew agreed, and quickly plugged into Memphis’ medical ecosystem, making connections with new professionals and investors.

Hera’s flagship product, Eucontra, has been the company’s main focus so far. Key to its quick success has been Mathew’s use of FDA-approved biodegradable polymers with active pharmaceutical ingredients. “What we’ve done is create from the ground up a drug delivery mechanism from these polymers that can deliver therapeutics to the body for a long period of time,” he says.

“If you think about it, this is a space that doesn’t see a lot of innovation. Most companies quickly package drugs into either oral or injectable factors. And that’s a big issue when it comes to therapeutics that need to constantly be in the bloodstream for an extended period of time to be effective.” As of now, Eucontra is designed to dispense the current market’s generic contraceptive (in this case, etonogestrel) over a 12- to 16-month period. But as Hera continues developing its drug delivery technology, that time period can be adjusted, depending on which drug is used.

Eucontra is currently pending FDA approval, but Mathew is optimistic that it could earn approval as early as 2024 or 2025. Early meetings have shown that Eucontra is safe and effective, which significantly reduces the timeline. “ ere are companies pursuing this kind of technology,” he says, “but we’re one of the few in this space that are using materials already approved by the FDA. Developing a new drug could take anywhere from 10 to 20 years to get approval, so we’re ahead of the game.”

And that early success has caught the eye of pharmaceutical companies around the globe, including in countries like Spain

A researcher by trade, Idicula Mathew founded Hera Health Solutions in 2018 with the goal of developing a new drug delivery platform. Hera’s flagship product, Eucontra, is a biodegradable contraceptive arm implant that utilizes his technology.

and South Korea. at plays into the ultimate global vision that Mathew sees for the company and the technology.

“Innovation in the pharmaceutical realm can lead to better outcomes for patients,” says Mathew. “It’s all in the service of making new and existing therapeutics easier to access for people, or making it safer than current delivery methods.” In terms of Eucontra, eliminating the need for an implant’s invasive removal procedure avoids the painful and expensive complications that Mathew witnessed, and provides a much safer global alternative for women in areas that may lack access to reliable healthcare.

“We’re going to be able to help a lot of people,” he says. “We’re working towards innovation in the pharmaceutical realm. We’re excited to be a part of it, and hopefully we’ll help new and existing therapeutics be more beneficial for users worldwide.”

HOWARD ROBERTSON PLAY ODE

BY ALEX GREENE

B ack in his twenties, Howard Robertson landed a job that has shaped his aesthetics and his ethics ever since: He became a publicist for the legendary Stax Records. He’s grateful he didn’t stick with his original plan of going to law school. “It was the greatest first job out of college anybody ever had, and it beat the absolute stew out of going to law school,” he says now. “I was only at Stax for a couple years, but it was life-changing. Deanie Parker was my boss, and she taught me things that I use yet today.”

Robertson is now the CEO/ principal of Trust Marketing & Communications, Inc., a venture that he and his wife, Beverly, first imagined while strolling on a Florida beach in 1988, but that barely scratches the surface of all he’s involved in. Indeed, he’s played and listened to music all his life, and, ever since his stint as sales manager for Memphis station WLOK, radio as well. ose twin passions are at the heart of his most recent innovation: the Play ODE app. e unique platform is designed to be a portal to radio stations and podcasts programmed for the Black community. As Robertson explains, its genesis was at a 2018 conference of the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB), where he attended a session about African Americans’ growing reliance on digital devices for their radio listening. “In that room, I saw radio station owners and broadcasters that owned AM radio stations, and I knew that they were quite literally the walking dead. Because young people don’t know what

AM radio is, or how to access it. So it bothered me that they did not have a digital footprint, or a bridge to digital. And I’ve always been one to want to find a creative way to figure it out. So I left there and went to a cigar bar, and I stayed in there for about seven hours. I went in with a problem and came out with a plan. at’s when I came up with the concept of ODE.”

e app, first released seven months ago, ties together many causes Robertson is passionate about. “ODE is an acronym for Our Digital Entertainment,” he says. “We’re a Black radio app, providing Black radio with the same sense of legacy and purpose that Black radio I grew up with here in Memphis had. And that is to super-serve the community, to provide the best in Black entertainment, music, information, and news. So we stream radio stations in various Black-appeal formats. We have hip hop, R&B, gospel, smooth jazz, talk, and sports. And these are some of the best Black radio stations in the country, from a diversity of locations: Atlanta, Chicago, New Orleans, Mem-

phis, Miami, Dallas, Kansas City. We’re starting out with about a dozen, and then we’ll add more.”

As Robertson sees it, this helps preserve some of the diversity that’s disappearing as radio ownership and programming has become more profit-driven. “We have a diversity of formats, including formats that a lot of markets are not deep in, or that don’t exist at all anymore. One that I love is smooth jazz. ere used to be a plethora of smooth jazz stations out there, but now they’re few and far between. And on the ODE app, we’ve got some phenomenal ones. One in Atlanta, one in Augusta, and one in Springfield, Massachusetts.”

ODE also offers Black-oriented podcasts, something Robertson also knows something about, having co-hosted the popular Riffin’ On Jazz show with the recently departed Malvin Massey for many years. Now ODE includes that show, not to mention More an at with Gia Peppers, ree Black Chicks, R&R on Sports, and Blues in the Basement.

Ultimately, Robertson traces the spirit of ODE to values he saw every day while working at

Howard Robertson founded Play ODE as a way to create a digital home for Black-owned AM radio stations. “Young people don’t know what AM radio is, or how to access it,” explains Robertson. “So it bothered me that [these stations] did not have a digital footprint. ... That’s when I came up with the concept for Play ODE.”

Stax. “ ey were super-serving the Black community,” he says. “And Stax did that as a privately owned business, with so much devotion and commitment and dedication to Memphis, especially when it came to Black radio. And that is my motivation for ODE. Next year is the 75th anniversary of Black radio; the first Black format radio station was WDIA, in 1948. I dearly love radio and Black radio, so I wanted to be part of a solution, in terms of their being able to not just survive, but to thrive. at’s what the ODE platform allows us to do.”

A new app provides a unique digital home for Black-owned AM radio stations and podcasts.

RBC Wealth Management is now in Memphis

“The Memphis Grizzlies have grown to become more than a team to root for or a spectacle in sports and entertainment. The gifted athletes and brilliant minds behind this organization are rooted in the rhythm of our city. The Grizzlies are synonymous with Memphis culture and more than any brand represent who we are and where we’re headed. They’re like family. Their wins are our wins, and our wins are theirs.” — Rabbi Micah Greenstein, senior rabbi of temple israel and this magazine’s first memphian of the year (2013)

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Morant is scintillating anywhere on the court, but when he’s above the court … that’s when the jaws drop.

[and when] Mike [Conley] was here. Now, I’m here with an all-new team with Ja. I have seen how Memphis grew into a powerhouse. A team that is not looked down upon. Other teams have to get up and ready for us every single night, and just the whole vibe I feel around Memphis has changed. It has so much life, and the crowd is just electric. So it means the world to me, and I love Memphis. I love everything that it stands for.”

Frank Murtaugh contributed to this story.

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Left to Right: Howard Kim, Gretchen Sloan, Allison Adair, A. Brooks Irvine, Sharon Mason, Miles Mason, Sr.*, William G. Buie IV**, Joseph W. Smith**, Ashley Kirkland

to Super Lawyers**Selected to Rising Stars

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Memphis Business Journal, Memphis

MALCOLM B. FUTHEY III

SUSAN A. HINSLEY

Keegan School of Broadcasting

Our history expert solves local mysteries: who, what, when, where, why, and why not. Well, sometimes.

BY VANCE LAUDERDALE

DEAR VANCE: Looking through old family papers, I discovered that my father attended the Keegan School of Broadcasting. Where was this establishment, and what happened to it?

— M.A., MEMPHIS.

DEAR M.A.: When a Memphis electric engineer named Hoyt Wooten obtained this city’s first radio broadcasting license in 1922, he might as well have discovered a gold mine. He opened a studio in the basement of the Peabody with the call letters WREC — for Wooten Radio & Electric Company. Oh sure, he had to rent space, buy equipment, and pay a small staff, but even after those expenses, money poured in from advertisers eager to have their products broadcast over the air to thousands of potential customers.

Wooten made so much money that he built a Spanish-style mansion in Whitehaven (complete with the world’s largest private bomb shelter, large enough for 40 of his closest friends) and converted a U.S. Navy minesweeper into the 100-foot Elbaroda, the largest yacht ever seen on this part of the Mississippi.

Americans were mesmerized by radios. No longer did they need to purchase tickets, dress up, and drive to a theater or auditorium for entertainment. By purchasing a set and rigging an antenna, they could enjoy a world of music, follow the exploits of The Lone Ranger, and listen to the news, all with the turn of a dial.

Other stations quickly followed Wooten’s example. By the 1940s and ’50s, Memphians could choose from WMC, WMPS, WDIA, WHBQ, WLOK, and dozens of others.

All of these stations required entertainers and announcers, and they also demanded a constant supply of equipment and people trained to operate and repair everything. City directories in the 1940s listed stores

where listeners could purchase radios (with establishments like Mulford Jewelers even offering the latest models), businesses that stocked repair parts (tubes were notoriously short-lived), and — here I’m finally getting to your question, M.A. — specialized schools that trained radio technicians and broadcasters.

If you’ve paid attention, you’ve noticed that I’ve been focusing on the 1940s, because that’s when Frank J. Keegan opened the Keegan School of Broadcasting. Looking through back issues of local newspapers, I had hoped to find major stories about the school’s opening, descriptions of its lovely campus, and thrilling accounts of its football team’s victories against rival schools.

But it wasn’t that kind of school, of course. Instead, the first mentions of the Keegan School of Broadcasting show up in 1945 as classified ads, announcing that the new establishment offered classes to “men and women, day and night, for staff announcers, disc jockeys, writers, and operators.” Working out of only a few rooms in an office building at 71 Monroe, Keegan promised, “Our students get good radio station jobs.”

I turned up only one photo of this establishment, and as you can see, the school apparently offered classes in radio repair, because that’s what seems to be going on here. The photo is dim, but it shows a half-dozen men hunkered over all kinds of electronic gadgets. A banner on the wall declares, “If our students haven’t learned, our instructors haven’t taught.” Also visible: lots of “High Voltage” signs.

So who was Frank Keegan? Digging through old archives didn’t tell me as much as I’d hoped. Born in Aberdeen, South Dakota, in 1914, by the 1930s he was living in Little Rock, Arkansas, where he met a former Memphian, Frances Earley. Frank and Francis were married in Little Rock in 1938, and the couple moved to the wife’s hometown. Memphis city directories show the Keegans living here in 1940s on Oakley, while Frank worked for the Fisher Aircraft Division, assembling bombers during World War II at a former automobile plant. Maybe that’s where he gained experience in radio operations and electronics.

He certainly stayed busy. When the war ended in 1945, he took part in his first radio venture, joining other investors to open a station called WLVH, which newspapers described as “an intercommunicating system used for the entertainment of patients at the Veterans Hospital on Lamar.”

That same year, he opened Keegan’s School of Radio at 2019 Union and soon added training in television. His ads urged students to “Get into Radio and Television!” and declared, “Keegan’s School of Broadcasting is now the most completely equipped radio school in the United States,” a remarkable claim, if you ask me. “We offer complete courses in radio and television theory, radio writing, and radio announcing.”

ABOVE PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY VANCE LAUDERDALE; JOHNNY CASH: WIKIPEDIA; TOP RIGHT: EVERETT COLLECTION INC / DREAMSTIME

The school was obviously successful. By late 1949, Keegan signed a five-year lease for a 6,000-square-foot building at 207 Madison, just two blocks east of Main. The new facility included a radio control room, two lecture rooms, and three studios.

With all their expertise in radio, it only made sense that Keegan’s students should have their own show. In 1950, they began airing the Mem phis Radio Workshop on WMPS. The shows promised to be “produced, directed, and enacted by students of the Keegan School of Broadcasting and Television.”

By 1952, Keegan expanded his enterprise, operating a commercial radio station, KFAK, which he promoted as “The Good Music Station” — implying, it seems, that other stations here played bad music. That operated out of a tiny studio at 215 Madison, next door to his school. Within a year, though, he sold KFAK for $50,000 to “a group of prominent Memphians,” which included professional golfer Cary Middlecoff. The new ownership group, called the Chickasaw Broadcasting Company, changed the call letters to WCBR and moved the studio to the Exchange Building, overlooking Court Square.

Over the years, Keegan’s school trained hundreds of students, surely none more famous than a fellow from Dyess, Arkansas, called Johnny Cash.

Over the years, Keegan’s school trained hundreds of students, surely none more famous than a fellow from Dyess, Arkansas, called Johnny Cash. In a 1985 interview, broadcast as Coming Home: A Rockin’ Reunion, Cash recalls that he moved to Memphis and took a job “at a place called Home Equipment Company, trying to sell refrigerators and washing machines.”

He continues, “All I ever wanted to do was sing, but I couldn’t get a break. So I entered radio announcing school in Memphis — Keegan’s School of Broadcasting. I’d been going there five months, half-time [and] finally got Sam Phillips to listen.”

That was in March 1955. I suppose it seems obvious to say, “And the rest is history.”

In 1957, the school changed its name to Keegan Technical Institute. Their newspaper ads, in the past so matter-of-fact, became downright strange. One, headlined “When Your Children Leave Home,” rambled on for a half-page about how a kid’s parents “don’t usually understand their deep-down mixed emotions of pride, joy, fear, regret, anticipation, and hope … for teenage youth has yet to learn the difference between day-dreaming and accomplishing.”

Where are you going with this, Mr. Keegan? Well,

after declaring that “we at Keegan have learned to help control their emotions,” the copywriters finally declared: “Talk to Keegan about your child’s future in electronics, in radio-television, or with the airlines.”

Wait — airlines? Yes, it seems that Keegan had begun an “airline training division” and a Commercial Appeal story noted that Southern Airlines “hired almost the entire graduating class of the Keegan Technical Institute.” An ad for “Airline Training in Memphis” was seeking “Women 18 to 36, married or single” to be taught by “experienced, well-known former Memphis airline personnel.” After graduation, Keegan would offer free job placement service as “hostesses, ticket agents, reservations, and communications.”

Radio, television, and now airlines. There’s no telling how far Keegan might have gone with his ventures. In 1964, however, he sold everything to a national chain, Allied Technical Schools, “widely known in the field of refrigeration, air conditioning, and heating service training.” That seems quite a leap from radio and television broadcasting — and even airline hostesses.

The Keegans left Memphis for West Lafayette, Indiana, where Frank became an electronics technician for Purdue University. He passed away in 1979 at age 64, with his obituary in Indiana’s Journal & Courier hailing him as a “radio pioneer.” Frances died in 2003; in her last years she had been working as a secretary. They are buried together in Grandview Cemetery outside West Lafayette.

And the Keegan School of Broadcasting? Except for the image here, I never located another photo of the establishment — or Frank and Frances, for that matter. There’s no trace of the school today. Most of that block on Madison came down in 2000 for AutoZone Park.

OPPOSITE : The Keegan School of Broadcasting also offered classes in radio equipment repair.

abOvE: The Lauderdales gathered around their new Philco to hear the latest installment of Life with the Lauderdales.

LEfT: Johnny Cash in 1955, at the beginning of a legendary career.

Got a question for Vance?

EMAIL: askvance@memphismagazine.com

MAIL: Vance Lauderdale, Memphis magazine, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101

ONLINE: memphismagazine.com/ ask-vance Or visit him on Facebook.

Inches Taco Shop

BY SAMUEL X. CICCI

Every day is Taco Tuesday at a new restaurant in Harbor Town. Inches Taco Shop opened its doors in July as Mud Island’s newest attraction, welcoming customers with fresh tortillas and keeping the tequila flowing. e brains behind the operation are Jose Perez and Jeff rey Smith, friends since 2015. With plenty of front- and back-of-house restaurant experience between them, the two cooked up the idea to open a place together. But that became more of an odyssey than the pair had imagined.

ey purchased space in Harbor Town back in August 2019, and soon, signs advertising their brand-new Mexican restaurant began popping up around Mud Island. But permit delays, and then Covid, pushed back the grand opening significantly.

Late this summer, Inches Taco Shop opened its doors for the first time. Inside the spacious interior, diners can peer into the kitchen where the cooks grill fresh meat; the scent of cilantro and onions hangs in the air. Or they can decamp to a tidy,

pleasant patio that overlooks the peaceful street. Back inside, several flashy-looking bottles of tequila are lined up behind the bar. You might not recognize all the brands, and that’s just a hint of Perez and Smith’s vision for the shop.

“ is restaurant is a personal endeavor for me,” says Perez. “We’re serving food that is authentic to my hometown of Guanajuato in Mexico. at means we’ll be preparing more traditional meats, in terms of the marination process, and serving everything from chicken, to pork, to beef, along with veggie options. We’ll marinate all our meat for 24 hours each night before we cook it up for customers, to bring in that extra flavor. Everything will be fresh, no frozen food or anything.”

Inches’ menu boasts plenty of traditional Mexican ingredients; expect to savor plenty of chiles and corn, coupled with the fresh citrusy taste of coriander seed, commonly found in everything from a marinade to a crucial ingredient in a salsa. Everything

from tacos to burritos to chimichangas is based around fresh meat and vegetables.

For my first choice, I decided to check out the regular tacos. I was a bit wary of the slightly higher prices at first ($4 per taco), but when my food emerged, I saw that each taco was enormous. at, according to Perez, is thanks to Guanajuato.

“ at’s just how we do it there,” he says. “Guanajuato is known for large dishes, so while our space is a bit small, we stay as close to that as we can.” And as another nod to his hometown, every entree and chips basket is made using blue corn tortillas. e basket of chips I enjoyed was layered with a balanced helping of red peppery seasoning. It’s not overbearing, like some of the spicy blue corn chips you can buy at the store, but rather a nice little kick to whet the appetite.

I started with the callejó n de girasol tacos, the shop’s veggie option. I immediately detected a hint of sweetness competing with a dash of sour citrus , two tastes that melded together amid

Tacos, birria, and other authentic Mexican dishes dock at Harbor Town.

Jeffrey Smith and Jose Perez

the soft and warm blanket of the fresh blue corn tortilla. The accompanying sweet potatoes and savory black beans smoothed out the slightly crunchier cauliflower, with a cashew drizzle on top providing a rich, umami finish.

Afterwards, I turned my attention to a newer section of the menu designed for birria lovers. Birria is a traditional slow-cooked Mexican stew, built here around braised beef in a consommé broth with diced potatoes, garban zo beans, carrots, and topped with cilantro and on ions. I again ordered mine in taco format, served at my table with three absolutely heaping helpings of the finely marinated beef.

tangy too. It’s perhaps the star of Inches’ show at the moment, and I’d say the perfect starting point for carnivores. The birria can be served inside burritos and chimichangas, too, and expect the same level of quality throughout.

Again, we really wanted to fo cus on the quality here, so we’re prioritizing some good tequilas which some of our diners might not be familiar with.”

opposite left: Inches Taco Shop serves authentic Mexican cuisine from co-owner Jose Perez’s hometown of Guanajuato, Mexico. At the Harbor Town restaurant, expect to dine on plenty of fresh, slow-cooked meats and blue corn tortillas. left: The birria tacos are stuffed full of braised beef, stewed to absorb spicy, sweet, and smoky flavors. Each taco flight is accompanied by a cup of savory consommé. top to bottom: Churro bites make for a quick and easy afterdinner treat; nachos with blue corn chips are the perfect entry point to try out Inches’ authentic Mexican fare; the mango jícama salad topped with chicken.

“Inches” came from. Several-inch-long tacos? Something to do with the square footage of the space? An inside joke? It’s none of the above, says Perez.

“This restaurant is a personal endeavor for me. We’re serving food that is authentic to my hometown of Guanajuato in Mexico. Everything will be fresh, no frozen food or anything.” — Jose Perez

Just as the authentic menu presents slightly different takes on Mexican cuisine than what we’re used to here in the States, Smith and Perez are taking a different tack with their bar program too. As with the fresh ingredients, they’re prioritizing quality over quantity with their drink selections. That means a limited selection of liquor and beer, but you won’t find any “bottom-shelf” options here.

To be clear, Inches Taco Shop isn’t here to serve TexMex cuisine. So don’t traipse in expecting some of the usual comfort food we’re used to in the States.

The ingredients come together in a flavorfully explosive way, cutting a bit of chili spice with lime, and emboldening it all with a vast profile of tastes: a bit spicy, a bit sweet, a bit smoky, and a little

“We’ve got four flavors of margaritas here that we use with good-quality tequila,” says Smith. “There are also a variety of dark bourbon whiskeys, a gin, and a couple of rums. I think the cheapest thing we have is Tito’s.

“It’s important that we stay authentic,” says Smith, “but on the other hand, I’ll admit there are some things we’ve had to garnish our dishes with because we’re in the United States. We did begrudgingly add a queso option. As for salsa, we don’t use anything out of a jar. We make our own custom mango salsa, which is really good, but has a really intensive prep process. And at happy hour, we do a sampler of all our dips for $5, so that’s a good chance for people to try them.”

On my way out the door, I had another lingering question that had stuck with me throughout my meal. And if other diners are like me, they might be asking themselves where the name

I react in surprise when he tells me it’s based on the Spanish word pinche, which had some not-sonice connotations when I’d heard it growing up in Santa Fe, New Mexico. “It’s not like that at all in Mexico,” laughs Perez. “It’s one of those slang words that got lost in translation. We use inches, or pinches a lot in daily conversation as a way to describe something in an exaggerated or emphasized way. It’s not offensive; in the context of the restaurant, like saying pinches tacos, it would be like saying, ‘ freakin’ tacos.’”

“The original Spanish word also refers to a kitchen helper, or something like a sous chef,” adds Smith. “But at the end of the day, we’re the ‘freakin’ taco shop!’”

Inches Taco Shop is open for dinner 4–9 p.m., Tuesday–Saturday. 111 Harbor Town Square. 901-457-5463.

Memphis Dining Guide

A Curated Guide to Eating Out

Memphis magazine offers this curated restaurant listing as a service to our readers. Broken down alphabetically by neighborhoods, this directory does not list every restaurant in town. It does, however, include the magazine’s “Top 50” choices of must-try restaurants in Memphis, a group that is updated every August. Establishments open less than a year are not eligible for “Top 50” but are noted as “New.” is guide also includes a representative sampling of other Bluff City eating establishments. No fast-food facilities or cafeterias are listed. Restaurants are included regardless of whether they advertise in Memphis magazine; those that operate in multiple locations are listed under the neighborhood of their original location. is guide is updated regularly, but we recommend that you call ahead to check on hours, prices, or other details. Suggestions from readers are welcome; please contact Samuel X. Cicci at scicci@contemporary-media.com.

DOWNTOWN

117 PRIME—Restaurateurs Craig Blondis and Roger Sapp team up with Chef Ryan Trimm to recreate the traditional American steakhouse. Serving oysters on the half shell and a variety of surf and turf options. 117 Union. 433-9851. L, D, WB, X, $-$$$

ALDO’S PIZZA PIES—Serving gourmet pizzas — including Mr. T Rex — salads, and more. Also 30 beers, bottled or on tap. 100 S. Main. 577-7743; 752 S. Cooper. 725-7437. L, D, X, $-$$

THE ARCADE—Possibly Memphis’ oldest cafe. Specialties include sweet potato pancakes, a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, and breakfast served all day. 540 S. Main. 526-5757. B, L, D (Thurs.-Sat.), X, MRA, $

AUTOMATIC SLIM’S—Longtime Downtown favorite specializes in contemporary American cuisine emphasizing local ingredients; also extensive martini list. 83 S. Second. 525-7948. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$

BACKLOT SANDWICH SHOP—Big sandwiches, breakfast bowls, and build-your-own-biscuits for breakfast, lunch, and an early supper. 265 S. Front St. 509-8612. B, L, D, $

BARDOG TAVERN—Classic American grill with Italian influence, Bardog offers pasta specialties such as Grandma’s NJ Meatballs, as well as salads, sliders, sandwiches, and daily specials. 73 Monroe. 275-8752. B (Mon.-Fri.), L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$

BEDROCK EATS & SWEETS—Memphis’ only Paleo-centric restaurant, offering such dishes as pot roast, waffles, enchiladas, chicken salad, omelets, and more. Closed for dinner Sun. 327 S. Main. 409-6433. B, L, D, X, $-$$

BELLE TAVERN—Serving elevated bar food, including a butcher board with a variety of meats and cheeses, as well as daily specials. 117 Barboro Alley. 249-6580. L (Sun.), D, MRA, $

BEN YAY’S GUMBO SHOP—Spiritual successor to DejaVu, offering fresh and authentic Creole staples. 51 S. Main St., 779-4125. L, D, X, $-$$

BISHOP—Ticer and Hudman’s newest venture at the Central Station Hotel features upscale dishes in a French brasserie style. 545 S. Main St., 524-5247. L, D, X, $$-$$$

CAPRICCIO GRILL ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE—Offers prime steaks, fresh seafood (lobster tails, grouper, mahi mahi), pasta, and several Northern Italian specialties. 149 Union, The Peabody. 529-4199. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$$

CAROLINA WATERSHED—This indoor/outdoor eatery, set around silos, features reimagined down-home classics, including fried green tomatoes with smoked catfish, a buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, burgers, and more. Closed Mon.-Thurs. 141 E. Carolina. 321-5553. L, D, WB, $-$$

CATHERINE & MARY’S—A variety of pastas, grilled quail, pâté, razor clams, and monkfish are among the dishes served at this Italian restaurant in the Chisca. 272 S. Main. 254-8600. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

CHEF TAM’S UNDERGROUND CAFE—Serves Southern staples with a Cajun twist. Menu items include totchoes, jerk wings, fried chicken, and “muddy” mac and cheese. Closed Sun. and Mon. 668 Union Ave. 207-6182. L, D, $

CHEZ PHILIPPE—Classical/contemporary French cuisine presented in a luxurious atmosphere with a seasonal menu focused on local/regional cuisine. The crown jewel of The Peabody for 35 years. Afternoon tea served Wed.-Sat., 1-3:30 p.m. (reservations required). Closed Sun.-Tues. The Peabody, 149 Union. 529-4188. D, X, MRA, $$$$

DINING SYMBOLS

CIMAS—It’s breakfast tacos, shrimp and grits, chilaquiles verdes, and plenty of other Southern and Latin-American twists at the Hyatt Centric. 33 Beale St. 444-3232. B, L, D, $-$$$

THE CLOVER CLUB Southern fusion and internationally-inspired small plates at Hotel Indigo. 22 N. B.B. King.

COZY CORNER—Serving up ribs, pork sandwiches, chicken, spaghetti, and more; also homemade banana pudding. Closed Mon. 745 N. Parkway and Manassas. 527-9158. L, D, $

CURFEW—An elevated sports bar/American tavern concept by Top Chef contestant Fabio Viviani at the Canopy Memphis Downtown hotel. 164 Union Ave. B, L, D, X, $-$$

EVELYN & OLIVE—Jamaican/Southern fusion cuisine includes such dishes as Kingston stew fish, Rasta Pasta, and jerk rib-eye. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun.-Mon. 630 Madison. 748-5422. L, D, X , $

Sun. and Mon. A Downtown staple at Brinkley Plaza, 383 S. Main. 5230877. L (Fri. only), D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

FERRARO’S PIZZERIA & PUB—Rigatoni and tortellini are among the pasta entrees here, along with pizzas (whole or by the slice) with a variety of toppings. 111 Jackson. 522-2033. L, D, X, $

FISHBOWL AT THE PYRAMID—Burgers, fish dishes, sandwiches, and more served in a unique “underwater” setting. Bass Pro, 1 Bass Pro Drive, 291-8000. B, L, D, X, $-$$

FLIGHT RESTAURANT & WINE BAR—Serves steaks and seafood, along with such specialties as bison ribeye and Muscovy duck, all matched with appropriate wines. 39 S. Main. 521-8005. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

FLYING FISH—Serves up fried and grilled versions of shrimp, crab, oysters, fish tacos, and catfish; also chicken and burgers. 105 S. Second. 522-8228. L, D, X, $-$$

GOOD FORTUNE CO.—Authentic handcrafted noodles, ramen, and dumplings. 361 S. Main. 561-306-4711. L, D, $-$$

THE GENRE—Burgers, tenders, catfish, and plenty of vegan options made to order at this music-themed restaurant/lounge. 200 Poplar, Suite 105. 410-8169. B, L, D, $-$$

THE GRAY CANARY—The sixth restaurant from chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman, offering small plates and entrees cooked on an open flame. Oysters, octopus, and hearty steaks are among the menu options at this eatery in Old Dominick Distillery. Closed Mon. 301 S. Front. 466-6324. D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$

GRECIAN GOURMET TAVERNA—Serves traditional favorites like spanakopita, pastitso, moussaka, and hand-rolled dolmathes, as well as lamb sliders and pita nachos. Closed Mon. 412 S. Main. 249-6626. L, D, X, $

GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN—Serves chicken with signature spicy batter, along with homemade beans, slaw, and pies. 310 S. Front. 527-4877; 3100 Forest Hill Irene (Germantown). 853-6005; 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 373-9111; 730 S. Mendenhall. 767-2323; 505 Highway 70 W., Mason, TN. 901-294-2028. L, D, X, MRA, $

HAPPY MEXICAN—Serves quesadillas, burritos, chimichangas, vegetable and seafood dishes, and more. 385 S. Second. 529-9991; 6080 Primacy Pkwy. 683-0000; 7935 Winchester. 751-5353. L, D, X, $

HU. ROOF—Rooftop cocktail bar with superb city views serves toasts with a variety of toppings including beef tartare with cured egg, cognac, and capers or riced cauliflower with yellow curry, currants, and almonds. Also salads, fish tacos, and boiled peanut hummus. 79 Madison. 333-1229. D, $

HUSTLE & DOUGH BAKERY & CAFE—Flaky, baked breakfast goodness every day with fresh pastries, sandwiches, and more at Arrive Hotel. 477 S. Main St., 701-7577. B, L, X, $

INKWELL—Unique craft concoctions, charcuterie plates, flatbreads, and sandwiches at this dope cocktail bar. Closed Mon.-Tue. 631 Madison Ave. 334-9411. D, $-$$

ITTA BENA—Southern and Cajun-American cuisine served here, conveniently located above B.B. King’s Blues Club on Beale St.; specialties are duck and waffles and shrimp and grits, along with steaks, chops, seafood, and pasta. 145 Beale St. 578-3031. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

KING & UNION BAR GROCERY—Classic Southern favorites including catfish plate, pimento cheese, po-boys, chicken & waffles. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with cocktails served with flair and favorite Memphis beers. Locally made confections available in the grocery. 185 Union Ave. 523-8500. B, L, D, $-$$

KOOKY CANUCK—Offers prime rib, catfish, and burgers, including the 4-lb. “Kookamonga”; also late-night menu. 87 S. Second. 578-9800; 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy. 1-800-2453 L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$

BLEU—This eclectic restaurant features American food with global influences and local ingredients. Among the specialties are a 14-oz. bone-in ribeye and several seafood dishes. 221 S. Third, in the Westin Memphis Beale St. Hotel. 334-5950. B, L, D, WB, X, MRA, $$-$$$

BLUEFIN RESTAURANT & SUSHI LOUNGE—Serves Japanese fusion cuisine featuring seafood and steak, with seasonally changing menu; also a sushi bar. 135 S. Main. 528-1010. L, D, X, $-$$

BRASS DOOR IRISH PUB—Irish and New-American cuisine includes such entrees as fish and chips, burgers, shepherd’s pie, all-day Irish breakfast, and more. 152 Madison. 572-1813. L, D, SB, $-$$

BY THE BREWERY—Breakfast and lunch café, with a focus on Southern-style biscuits, salads, and soups. 496 Tennessee St. 310-4341. B, L, $

CAFE KEOUGH—European-style cafe serving quiche, paninis, salads, and more. 12 S. Main. 509-2469. B, L, D, X, $

FAM—Casual Asian restaurant serves sushi rice bowls, noodle bowls, sushi rolls, and spring rolls. Closed Sun. 149 Madison; 521 S. Highland. 701-6666. L, D, X, $

FANCY’S FISH HOUSE—Serving chef-inspired favorites at One Beale, including fresh, daily-caught fish and seafood, a raw bar, and signature dishes from the grill, with fabulous river views from the dining room and patio. 1 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. #1. 589-3474. L, D, $$-$$$$

FEAST & GRAZE—Whipped goat toast, open faced grilled cheese, and other local pantry snacks and charcuterie boards. Closed Sun./Mon. 55 S. Main. 654-5926. L, $

FELICIA SUZANNE’S—Southern cuisine with low-country, Creole, and Delta influences, using regional fresh seafood, local beef, and locally grown foods. Entrees include shrimp and grits. Closed

LITTLE BETTIE—New Haven-style pizzas and snacks from the Andrew-Michael team at Wiseacre’s Downtown location. 398 S. B.B. King Blvd. 334-9411. L, D, $-$$

THE LITTLE TEA SHOP—Downtown institution serves up Southern comfort cooking, including meatloaf and such veggies as turnip greens, yams, okra, and tomatoes. Closed Sat.-Sun. 69 Monroe. 525-6000, L, X, $

LOCAL—Entrees with a focus on locally sourced products include lobster mac-and-cheese and rib-eye patty melt; menu differs by location. 95 S. Main. 473-9573; 2126 Madison. 725-1845. L, D, WB, X, $-$$

LOFLIN YARD—Beer garden and restaurant serves vegetarian fare and smoked-meat dishes, including beef brisket and pork tenderloin, cooked on a custom-made grill. Closed Mon.-Tues. 7 W. Carolina. 249-3046. L (Sat. and Sun.), D, MRA, $-$$

We celebrate our city’s community table and the people who grow, cook, and eat the best Memphis food at

(This guide, compiled by our editors, includes editorial picks and advertisers.)

LONGSHOT

variety of international fusion dishes, and a side of shuffleboard. 477 S. Main. D, $-$$

THE LOOKOUT AT THE PYRAMID fare, including cornmeal-fried oysters, sweet tea brined chicken, and elk chops. 1 Bass Pro Dr. 620-4600/291-8200. L, D, LUCY’S dinner. Start your day with a Hu. breakfast burrito, or Lucy’s Burger for a late-night bite 3 S. Main. 333-1200. B, L, D, LUNA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE breakfast and lunch items. Dinner entrees include citrus glaze salmon and Cajun stuffed chicken. 179 Madison (Hotel Napoleon). 526-0002. B, D (Mon.-Sat.),

Sun. 45 S. Main. 526-0037, offers a pre-theater menu and classic cocktails. Well-stocked bar. 145 S. Main. 522-8555. L, D, WB, to-crusted catfish with macaroni and cheese, and more. Closed Sun., Monroe location. 120 Monroe. 527-7085; 1110 Van Buren (Oxford). 662-234-7003. L, D, SB (Oxford only),

MESQUITE CHOP HOUSE prime fillet, rib-eyes, and prime-aged New York strip; also, some seafood options. 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-890-2467; 88 Union. 527-5337; 3165 Forest Hill-Irene (Germantown). 249-5661. D, SB (Germantown),

MOLLIE

FONTAINE LOUNGE

featuring global cuisine. Closed Sun.-Tues. 679 Adams Ave. 524-1886. D, MOMMA’S ROADHOUSE up hot and crispy fried chicken wings, among other solid bar food options. Temporarily closed.

Ghost River on Beale. Closed Mon/Tue. 341 Beale. L, D, $-$$

THE NINE THAI & SUSHI curries, as well as a variety of sushi rolls. Closed for lunch Sat. and Sun. 121 Union. 208-8347. L, D,

list. Closed Sun/Mon. 265 S. Front. 410-8169. D, $-$$$$ and crabmeat and spinach crepes; also changing daily specials and great views. River Inn. 50 Harbor Town Square. 260-3300. B, L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$

PEARL’S OYSTER HOUSE including oysters, crawfish, and stuffed butterfly shrimp, as well as beef, chicken, and pasta dishes. 299 S. Main. 522-9070; 8106 Cordova Center Dr. (Cordova). 425-4797. L, D, SB, PONTOTOC LOUNGE starters as alligator filet fritters; entrees include Mississippi pot roast with jalapeño cornbread and tagliatelle with braised beef. 314 S. Main. 207-7576. D, RAW GIRLS juices made from seasonal, locally grown sources. Closed Sun. 150 Peabody Pl., Suite 118. 207-5463. B, L, D, $-$$

REGINA’S nachos topped with crawfish tails, catfish platters, oysters, and more. Closed Mon. 60 N. Main. 730-0384. B, L, D, SB, and Greek salads. Closed Sun.-Mon. 52 S. Second. 523-2746. L (Fri.Sat.), D,

SABOR CARIBE

Colombia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Closed Sunday. 662 Madison. 949-8100. L, D,

SAGE—Restaurant and lounge features daily lunch specials and tapas with such dishes as braised short ribs, teriyaki pulled pork, and the Sage burger made with Angus beef, avocado mash, fried egg, and flash-fried sage. 94 S. Main. 672-7902. L, D, WB, X, $-$$

SILLY GOOSE LOUNGE—Gourmet, wood-fired pizzas and handcrafted cocktails at this Downtown restaurant and lounge. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111. 435-6915. L, D, X, $

SOUTH MAIN SUSHI & GRILL—Serving sushi, nigiri, and more. 520 S. Main. 249-2194. L, D, X, $

SOB—Elevated gastropub that serves favorites like general Tso’s cauliflower or duck fried rice. 345 S. Main. 526-0388. L, D, WB, X , $-$$

SOUTH POINT GROCERY—Fresh and delicious sandwiches made to order at Downtown’s new grocery market. 136 Webster Ave. B, L, D, $

SUGAR GRITS—Who said breakfast has to be in the morning? The Westmorelands offer grits and other breakfast goodness all day long, in addition to other Southern-style lunch and dinner options. 150 Peabody Pl., Suite 111. 249-5206. B, L, D, $-$$

SUNRISE MEMPHIS—Serves breakfast all day, including house-made biscuits, frittatas, kielbasa or boudin plates, and breakfast platters. 670 Jefferson. 552-3144. B, L, X, MRA, $

SUPPER CLUB ON 2ND—Fine dining and urban bistro styles collide at this snazzy, chic restaurant, featuring gold-encrusted tomahawk steaks, a deep sea lobster dawg, fancy cocktails, and plenty of other elevated goodies. 85 S. 2nd St. 453-6334. D, WB, $$-$$$

TALK SHOP—Southern-style cuisine, a breakfast bar, and plenty of other cool dishes and drinks at the Caption by Hyatt. 245 S. Front St. B, L, D, $-$$

TERRACE—Creative American and Continental cuisine includes such dishes as filet mignon, beef or lamb sliders, chicken satay, and mushroom pizzetta. Rooftop, River Inn of Harbor Town, 50 Harbor Town Square. 260-3366. D, X, MRA, $$

TEXAS DE BRAZIL—Serves beef, pork, lamb, and chicken dishes, and Brazilian sausage; also a salad bar with extensive toppings. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 103. 526-7600. L (Wed.-Fri.), D, SB, X, $$-$$$

TUG’S—Famous for New Orleans gumbo, fabulous burgers, fried thin catfish, and specialty pancakes. Now serving Grisanti Crafted Pizza. 51 Harbor Town Square. 260-3344. B, L, D, WB, X, $$-$$$

THE VAULT—Oysters, shrimp beignets, flatbreads, stuffed cornish hen, and Smash Burger featured on “Late Nite Eats” are among the dishes offered at this Creole/Italian fusion eatery. 124 G.E. Patterson. 591-8000. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$

WAHLBURGERS WILD—Wahlburgers brings its classic menu, but with a few gamey twists at the Bass Pro Pyramid. 1 Bass Pro Drive. B, L, D, $-$$

WESTY’S—Extensive menu includes a variety of wild rice dishes, sandwiches, plate lunches, and hot fudge pie. 346 N. Main. 543-3278.L, D, X, $

MIDTOWN (INCLUDES THE MEDICAL CENTER)

ABNER’S FAMOUS CHICKEN—Fried chicken tenders and dipping sauces galore at this Mid-South staple. 1350 Concourse Ave, Suite 137. 425-2597; (East Memphis) 1591 Poplar Ave. 509-3351; (Cordova) 1100 N. Germantown Pkwy. 754-5355. L, D, $-$$

ABYSSINIA RESTAURANT—Ethiopian/Mediterranean menu includes beef, chicken, lamb, fish entrees, and vegetarian dishes; also a lunch buffet. 2600 Poplar. 321-0082. L, D, X, $-$$

ALCHEMY—Southern fusion, locally grown cuisine features small and large plates; among the offerings are pan-seared hanger steak, quail, and lamb chops; also handcrafted cocktails and local craft beers. 940 S. Cooper. 726-4444. D, SB, X, $-$$

ART BAR—Inventive cocktails feature locally foraged ingredients; snacks include house-cured salt & vinegar potato chips and herb-roasted olives. Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Avenue #280. 507-8030. D, X, $

BABALU TACOS & TAPAS—This eatery dishes up Spanish-style tapas with Southern flair; also taco and enchilada of the day; specials change daily. 2115 Madison. 274-0100; 6450 Poplar, 410-8909. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$

BACK DO / MI YARD—A revamped patio space behind The Beauty Shop features rotisserie meats and fishes via Brazilian-style outdoor grill. Dinner Wed.-Sat., weather permitting. 966 S. Cooper, 272-7111. D, X, $$

BAIN BARBECUE & BAKERY—Brian Bain’s popular Texasstyle barbecue is back, alongside an assortment of baked goods. 993 S. Cooper. 310-4141. B, L, $-$$

BAR DKDC—Features an ever-changing menu of international “street food,” from Thai to Mexican, Israeli to Indian, along with specialty cocktails. 964 S. Cooper. 272-0830. D, X , MRA, $

BAR KEOUGH—It’s old-school eats and cocktails at the new CooperYoung neighborhood corner bar by Kevin Keough. 247 Cooper St. D, X , $

BAR-B-Q SHOP—Dishes up barbecued ribs, spaghetti, bologna, other classics. Closed Sun. 1782 Madison. 272-1277. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

BARI RISTORANTE ENOTECA—Authentic Southeastern Italian cuisine (Puglia) emphasizes lighter entrees. Serves fresh fish and beef

dishes and a homemade soup of the day. 524 S. Cooper. 722-2244. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

BARKSDALE RESTAURANT—Old-school diner serving breakfast and Southern plate lunches. 237 S. Cooper. 722-2193. B, L, D, X, $

BAYOU BAR & GRILL—New Orleans fare at this Overton Square eatery includes jambalaya, gumbo, catfish Acadian, shrimp dishes, red beans and rice, and muffalettas. 2094 Madison. 278-8626. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$

BEAUTY SHOP—Modern American cuisine with international flair served in a former beauty shop. Serves steaks, salads, pasta, and seafood, including pecan-crusted golden sea bass. Perennial “Best Brunch” winner. Closed for dinner Sunday. 966 S. Cooper. 272-7111. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

BELLY ACRES—At this festive Overton Square eatery, milkshakes, floats, and burgers rule. Burgers are updated with contemporary toppings like grilled leeks, braised tomatoes, and sourdough or brioche buns. 2102 Trimble Pl. 529-7017. L, D, X, $

BOSCOS—Tennessee’s first craft brewery serves a variety of freshly brewed beers as well as wood-fired oven pizzas, pasta, seafood, steaks, and sandwiches. 2120 Madison. 432-2222. L, D, SB (with live jazz), X, MRA, $-$$

BOUNTY ON BROAD—Offering family-style dining, Bounty serves small plates and family-sized platters, with such specialties as chicken-fried quail and braised pork shank. 2519 Broad. 410-8131. L (Sat. and Sun.), D (Mon.-Sat.), SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

BROADWAY PIZZA—Serving a variety of pizzas, including the Broadway Special, as well as sandwiches, salads, wings, and soul-food specials. 2581 Broad. 454-7930; 627 S. Mendenhall. 207-1546. L, D, X, $-$$

CAFE 1912—French/American bistro owned by culinary pioneer Glenn Hays serving such seafood entrees as seared sea scallops with charred cauliflower purée and chorizo cumin sauce; also crepes, salads, and onion soup gratinée. 243 S. Cooper. 722-2700. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

CAFE BROOKS BY CITY & STATE—Serving grab-and-go pastries, as well as lunch items. Menu includes soups, salads, and sandwiches, such as the Modern Reuben and Grown-Up Grilled Cheese. 1934 Poplar (Memphis Brooks Museum of Art). 544-6200. B, L, X, $

CAFE ECLECTIC—Omelets and chicken and waffles are among menu items, along with quesadillas, sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. Menu varies by location. 603 N. McLean. 725-1718; 111 Harbor Town Square. 590-4645. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $

CAFE OLÉ—This eatery specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine; one specialty is the build-your-own quesadilla. 959 S. Cooper. 343-0103. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$

CAFE PALLADIO—Serves gourmet salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts in a tea room inside the antiques shop. Closed Sun. 2169 Central. 278-0129. L, X, $

CAFE SOCIETY—With Belgian and classic French influences, serves Wagyu beef, chicken, and seafood dishes, including bacon-wrapped shrimp, along with daily specials and vegetarian entrees. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 212 N. Evergreen. 722-2177. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

CAMEO—Three longtime Memphis bartenders join forces for creative cocktails, cheese boards, snacks, and Sunday brunch. 1835 Union Ave., Suite 3. 305-6511. D, SB, $-$$

CELTIC CROSSING—Specializes in Irish and American pub fare. Entrees include shepherd’s pie, shrimp and sausage coddle, and fish and chips. 903 S. Cooper. 274-5151. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$

CENTRAL BBQ—Serves ribs, smoked hot wings, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken, turkey, nachos, and portobello sandwiches. Offers both pork and beef barbecue. 2249 Central Ave. 272-9377; 4375 Summer Ave. 767-4672; 147 E. Butler. 672-7760 ; 6201 Poplar. 4177962. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

COMPLICATED PILGRIM—Quick serve coffee shop, bar, and restaurant all in one at The Memphian hotel. 21 S. Cooper St. 601-9095820. B, L, D, $-$$

THE COVE—Nautical-themed restaurant and bar serving oysters, pizzas, and more. The Stoner Pie, with tamales and fritos, is a popular dish. 2559 Broad. 730-0719. L, D, $

THE CRAZY NOODLE—Korean noodle dishes range from bibam beef noodle with cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, to curry chicken noodle; also rice cakes served in a flavorful sauce. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 2015 Madison. 272-0928. L, D, X, $

EAT AT BLACK LODGE—High-end breakfasts, like waffle grilled cheese sandwiches, nacho and tater-tot “tot-chos,” and other entrees like sweet spicy thai pork at the longtime video store. Closed Mon./Tue. 405 N. Cleveland. 672-7905. L, D, $-$$

ECCO—Mediterranean-inspired specialties range from rib-eye steak to seared scallops to housemade pastas and a grilled vegetable plate; also a Saturday brunch. Closed Sun.-Mon. 1585 Overton Park. 410-8200. B, L, D, X, $-$$

FABIOLA’S KITCHEN—Longtime caterer Fabiola Francis serves up burgers, tacos, fish, and much more. 1353 Jackson Ave. B, L, $

FARM BURGER—Serves grass-fed, freshly ground, locally sourced burgers; also available with chicken, pork, or veggie quinoa patties, with such toppings as aged white cheddar, kale coleslaw, and roasted beets. 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 175. 800-1851. L, D, X, $

THE FARMER AT RAILGARTEN—Mac Edwards comes out of retirement with classics including pan-seared catfish, gulf shrimp and grits, or a Gibson donut bread pudding. Closed Mon./Tue. 2166 Central. 313-0087. D, $-$$

FINO’S ITALIAN DELI & CATERING—The newly revived Fino’s offers the old favorites such as the Acquisto as well as a new breakfast menu. 1853 Madison. 272-FINO. B, L, D, X, $

FLAME RAMEN—Traditional Japanese ramen restaurant serving up bowls of noodles in Midtown. 1838 Union Ave. 779-8666. D, $-$$

FLIP SIDE—Pinball meets pub in the Crosstown neighborhood, with plenty of games alongside a Caribbean- and Latininspired menu. Closed Mon. 1349 Autumn Ave. L, D, $-$$

FRIDA’S—Mexican cuisine and Tex-Mex standards, including chimichangas, enchiladas, and fajitas; seafood includes shrimp and tilapia. 1718 Madison. 244-6196. L, D, X, $-$$

GLOBAL CAFÉ—This international food hall hosts three immigrant/ refugee food entrepreneurs serving Venezuelan, Sudanese, and Syrian cuisines. Samosas, shawarma, and kabobs are among the menu items. Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 157. L, D, X, MRA, $

GOLDEN INDIA—Northern Indian specialties include tandoori chicken as well as lamb, beef, shrimp, and vegetarian dishes. 2097 Madison. 728-5111. L, D, X, $-$$

GROWLERS—Sports bar and eatery serves standard bar fare in addition to pasta, tacos, chicken and waffles, and light options. 1911 Poplar. 244-7904. L, D, X, $-$$

HATTIE B’S—Fried chicken spot features “hot chicken” with a variety of heat levels; from no heat to “shut the cluck up” sauce. Sides include greens, pimento mac-and-cheese, and black-eyed pea salad. 596 S. Cooper. 424-5900. L, D, X, $

HUEY’S—This family-friendly restaurant offers 13 different burgers, a variety of sandwiches, and delicious soups and salads. 1927 Madison. 726-4372; 1771 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 7543885; 77 S. Second (Downtown). 527-2700; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-4455; 7090 Malco Blvd. (Southaven). 662-349-7097; 7825 Winchester. 624-8911; 4872 Poplar. 682-7729; 7677 Farmington Blvd. (Germantown). 318-3030; 8570 Highway 51 N. (Millington). 873-5025. L, D, X, MRA, $

IMAGINE VEGAN CAFE—Dishes at this fully vegan restaurant range from salads and sandwiches to full dinners, including eggplant parmesan and “beef” tips and rice; breakfast all day Sat. and Sun. 2158 Young. 654-3455. L, D, WB, X, $

INDIA PALACE—Tandoori chicken, lamb shish kabobs, and chicken tikka masala are among the entrees; also, vegetarian options and a daily all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. 1720 Poplar. 278-1199. L, D, X, $-$$

INSPIRE COMMUNITY CAFE—Serving breakfast all day, in addition to quesadillas, rice bowls, and more for lunch and dinner. 510 Tillman, Suite 110. 509-8640. B, L, D, X, $

KNIFEBIRD—Neighborhood wine bar boasts plenty of flights, cocktails, and mocktails alongside bruschetta and charcuterie boards. Closed Sun. 2155 Central Ave. 748-5425. D, $-$$$

LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM—Serves such Southern cuisine as po’boys, shrimp and grits, and wood-fired pizzas. 2119 Madison. 2075097. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$

LBOE—Gourmet burger joint serves locally sourced ground beef burgers, with options like the Mac-N-Cheese Burger and Caprese. Black bean and turkey patties available. 2021 Madison. 725-0770. L, D, X, $

THE LIQUOR STORE—Renovated liquor store turned diner serves all-day breakfast, sandwiches, and entrees such as Salisbury steak and smothered pork chops. Closed for dinner Sun.-Mon. 2655 Broad. 405-5477. B, L, D, X, $-$$

LITTLE ITALY—Serving New York-style pizza as well as subs and pasta dishes. 1495 Union. 725-0280; L, D, X, $-$$

MAXIMO’S ON BROAD—Serving a tapas menu that features creative fusion cuisine; entrees include veggie paella and fish of the day. Closed Mon. 2617 Broad Ave. 452-1111. D, SB, X, $-$$

MEMPHIS PIZZA CAFE—Homemade pizzas are specialties; also serves sandwiches, calzones, and salads. 2087 Madison. 726-5343;

5061 Park Ave. 684-1306; 7604 W. Farmington (Germantown). 7532218; 797 W. Poplar (Collierville). 861-7800; 5627 Getwell (Southaven). 662-536-1364. L, D, X, $-$$

MEMPHIS WHISTLE—Cocktails, cocktails, and even more delicious cocktails alongside burgers, sandwiches, and other tasty snacks. 2299 Young Ave. Closed Mon.-Tue. 236-7136. D, $-$$

MIDPOINTE FROM EDGE ALLEY—Edge Alley’s sister cafe at the Ballet Memphis headquarters focuses on freshness for its breakfast, lunch, and happy hour tapas. Closed Sun.-Mon. 2144 Madison Ave. 425-2605. B, L, X, $

MOLLY’S LA CASITA—Homemade tamales, fish tacos, a vegetarian combo, and bacon-wrapped shrimp are a few of the specialties. 2006 Madison. 726-1873. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

PANTÀ—Small, Catalan-inspired plates by Kelly English in the former Restaurant Iris space. 2146 Monroe Ave. Closed Mon.-Wed. 590-2828. L, D, $-$$.

PARISH GROCERY—Shrimp? Roast beef? Oysters? Whatever type of po’boy you want, the New Orleans-themed eatery has got it. Closed Monday. 916 S. Cooper St. 207-4347. L, D, X, $-$$

PAYNE’S BAR-B-QUE—Opened in 1972, this family-owned barbecue joint serves ribs, smoked sausage, and chopped pork sandwiches with a standout mustard slaw and homemade sauce. About as down-to-earth as it gets. 1762 Lamar. 272-1523. L, D, $-$$

PHO BINH—Vietnamese, vegetarian, and Cantonese specialties include lemon tofu and spring rolls. Closed Sunday. 1615 Madison. 276-0006. L, D, $

RED FISH ASIAN BISTRO—In the former Nineteenth Century Club building, serves sushi, teriyaki, and hibachi. Specialties include yuzu filet mignon and Chilean sea bass. 1433 Union. 454-3926; 9915 Highway 64 (Lakeland). 729-7581; 6518 Goodman (Olive Branch). 662-874-5254. L, D, X, $-$$$

ROBATA RAMEN & YAKITORI BAR—Serves ramen noodle bowls and Yakitori skewers as well as rice and noodle dishes. 2116 Madison. 410-8290. L, D, X, $

SABROSURA—Serves Mexican and Cuban fare, including arroz tapada de pollo and steak Mexican. Closed Sun. 782 Washington. 421-8180. L, D, X, $-$$

SALT|SOY—Nick Scott and Brac McCarley team up to provide Southern and Asian-inspired dishes at this Japanese Izakaya. Closed Sunday, Monday. 2583 Broad Ave. 726-4444. D, $$

SALTWATER CRAB—Offers an array of seafood dishes including boils with blue crab, crab legs, lobster tails, and more, and specialty sushi like the Dynamite or Royal King rolls, in addition to signature sangrias and cocktails. 2059 Madison Ave. 922-5202. L, D, X, $$

THE SECOND LINE—Kelly English brings “relaxed Creole cuisine” to his newest eatery; serves a variety of po’boys and such specialties as barbecue shrimp, andouille shrimp, and pimento cheese fries. 2144 Monroe. 590-2829. L, D, WB, X, $-$$

SEKISUI—Japanese fusion cuisine, fresh sushi bar, grilled meats and seafood, California rolls, and vegetarian entrees. Poplar/ Perkins location’s emphasis is on Pacific Rim cuisine. Menu and hours vary at each location. 25 Belvedere. 725-0005; 1884 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 309-8800; 4724 Poplar. 767-7770; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-0622; 2990 Kirby-Whitten (Bartlett). 377-2727; 6696 Poplar. 747-0001. L, D, X, $-$$$

SOUL FISH CAFE—Serving Southern-style soul food, tacos, and po’boys, including catfish, crawfish, oyster, shrimp, chicken, and smoked pork tenderloin. 862 S. Cooper. 725-0722; 3160 Village Shops Dr. (Germantown). 755-6988; 4720 Poplar. 590-0323. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

STICKEM—Brick and mortar location for the popular food truck, which offers grilled meat on a stick. 1788 Madison. Closed Sunday. 474-7214. L, D, X, $

TAMBOLI’S PASTA & PIZZA—Pasta-maker Miles Tamboli whips up Italian soul food with seasonal menus featuring dishes like crispy fried chicken or creamy bucatini with pecorino cheese. Serves dinner Tues.-Sat. 1761 Madison. 410-8866. D, X, $-$$

TAKASHI BISTRO—Fusion restaurant with an open kitchen that lets customers watch chefs prepare a variety of Japanese and Thai cuisine. 1680 Union Ave., Suite 109. 800-2936. L, D, $-$$.

TONICA—Paella and other Spanish-inspired dishes with an Italian touch, alongside an extensive list of gin and tonics. 1545 Overton Park. Closed Mon.-Wed. D, $-$$

TSUNAMI—Features Pacific Rim cuisine (Asia, Australia, South Pacific, etc.); also a changing “small plate” menu. Chef Ben Smith is a Cooper-Young pioneer. Specialties include Asian nachos and roasted sea bass. Closed Sunday. 928 S. Cooper. 274-2556. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

TUYEN’S ASIAN BISTRO—A variety of Asian dishes from the minds and chefs behind Saigon Le. Closed Sun. 288 N. Cleveland. L, D, $-$$

ZINNIE’S—Dive bar classic reopens with a makeover and signature Zinnaloni sandwich. 1688 Madison. 726-5004. L, D, X, $

SOUTH MEMPHIS (INCLUDES PARKWAY VILLAGE, FOX MEADOWS, SOUTH MEMPHIS, WINCHESTER, AND WHITEHAVEN)

BALA’S BISTRO—Authentic West African cuisine available to order or by the pound, alongside traditional American dishes and an extensive vegan menu. 4571 Elvis Presley Blvd. 509-3024. L, D, $-$$

COLETTA’S—Longtime eatery serves such specialties as homemade ravioli, lasagna, and pizza with barbecue or traditional toppings. 1063 S. Parkway E. 948-7652; 2850 Appling Rd. (Bartlett). 383-1122. L, D, X, $-$$

CURRY BOWL—Specializes in Southern Indian cuisine, serving Tandoori chicken, biryani, tikka masala, and more. Weekend buffet. 4141 Hacks Cross Rd. 207-6051. L, D, $

DELTA’S KITCHEN—The premier restaurant at The Guest House at Graceland serves Elvis-inspired dishes — like Nutella and Peanut Butter Crepes for breakfast — and upscale Southern cuisine — including lamb chops and shrimp and grits — for dinner. 3600 Elvis Presley Blvd. 443-3000. B, D, X, $-$$$

DWJ KOREAN BARBECUE—This authentic Korean eatery serves kimbap, barbecued beef short ribs, rice and noodles dishes, and hot pots and stews. 3750 Hacks Cross Rd., Suite 101. 746-8057; 2156 Young. 207-6204. L, D, $-$$

FABULOUS FLAVORS & FRIENDS ”The Candy Lady” Precious Thompson Jones comes up with a little bit of everything: omelettes, quesadillas, t-bones and waffles, and plenty of soul food. 2063 E. Brooks Rd. 314-0735. L, D, $

THE FOUR WAY—Legendary soul-food establishment dishing up such entrees as fried and baked catfish, chicken, and turkey and dressing, along with a host of vegetables and desserts. Around the corner from the legendary Stax Studio. Closed Mon. 998 Mississippi Blvd. 507-1519. L, D, $

HERNANDO’S HIDEAWAY–No one cares how late it gets; not at Hernando’s Hideaway. Live music, killer happy hour, and plenty of bar fare at this South Memphis hang. 3210 Old Hernando Rd. 917-982-1829. L, D, $

INTERSTATE BAR-B-Q—Specialties include chopped pork-shoulder sandwiches, ribs, hot wings, spaghetti, chicken, and turkey. 2265 S. Third. 775-2304; 150 W. Stateline Rd. (Southaven). 662-393-5699. L, D, X, $-$$

JIM & SAMELLA’S—It’s a revolving menu of soul food delight from Chef Talbert Fleming, with anything from Southern ribs to fried tamales. 841 Bullington Ave. 265-8761. L, D, X, $

LEONARD’S—Serves wet and dry ribs, barbecue sandwiches, spaghetti, catfish, homemade onion rings, and lemon icebox pie; also a lunch buffet. 5465 Fox Plaza. 360-1963. L, X, $-$$

MARLOWE’S—In addition to its signature barbecue and ribs, Marlowe’s serves Southern-style steaks, chops, lasagna, and more. 4381 Elvis Presley Blvd. 332-4159. D, X, MRA, $-$$

UNCLE LOU’S FRIED CHICKEN—Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for good reason: fried chicken (mild, hot, or home-style); jumbo burgers four patties high; strawberry shortcake, and assorted fruit pies. 3633 Millbranch. 332-2367. L, D, X, MRA, $ SUMMER/BERCLAIR/ RALEIGH/BARTLETT

BISCUITS & JAMS—Biscuits, waffles, French toast, and plenty of sharables at this Bartlett breakfast spot. Closed Mon./Tue. 5806 Stage Rd. 672-7905. B, L, $

BRYANT’S BREAKFAST—Slingin’ famous biscuits, plate lunches, chicken fried steak, and other breakfast classics since 1968. 3965 Summer Ave. 324-7494. B, L, $

CEVICHERIA AND GRILL CHILEMON—Ceviche, of course, but also plenty of other postres, aperitivos, and mixed grilled meat and seafood feasts. Closed Sun. 4509 Summer Ave. 672-7905. L, D, $

DIM SUM KING—All the best from a selection of authentic Chinese dishes: roasted duck, sizzling hot plate, Cantonese BBQ, and plenty more. 5266 Summer Ave. #65. 766-0831. L, D, $-$$

ELWOOD’S SHACK—Casual comfort food includes tacos, pizza, and sandwiches. Specialties include meats smoked in-house (chicken, turkey, brisket, pork), barbecue pizza, and steelhead trout tacos. 4523 Summer. 761-9898. B, L, D, X, $

EXLINES’ BEST PIZZA—Serves pizza, Italian dinners, sandwiches, and salads. 6250 Stage Rd. 382-3433; 2935 Austin Peay.

388-4711; 2801 Kirby Parkway. 754-0202; 7730 Wolf River Blvd. (Germantown). 753-4545; 531 W. Stateline Rd. 662-342-4544. L, D, X , MRA, $

LA TAQUERIA GUADALUPANA—Fajitas and quesadillas are just a few of the authentic Mexican entrees offered here. A bonafide Memphis institution. 4818 Summer. 685-6857; 5848 Winchester. 365-4992. L, D, $

LOTUS—Authentic Vietnamese-Asian fare, including lemon-grass chicken and shrimp, egg rolls, Pho soup, and spicy Vietnamese vermicelli. 4970 Summer. 682-1151. D, X, $

MORTIMER’S—Contemporary American entrees include trout almondine, chicken dishes, and hand-cut steaks; also sandwiches, salads, and daily/nightly specials. A Memphis landmark since the Knickerbocker closed. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 590 N. Perkins. 7619321. L, D, X, $-$$

NAGASAKI INN—Chicken, steak, and lobster are among the main courses; meal is cooked at your table. 3951 Summer. 454-0320. D, X, $$

NAM KING—General Tso’s chicken, hot and sour soup, and homemade chicken wings are back at the longtime Raleigh Chinese eatery. 3624 Austin Peay Highway, #3. 373-4411. L, D, $-$$

PANDA GARDEN—Sesame chicken and broccoli beef are among the Mandarin and Cantonese entrees; also seafood specials and fried rice. Closed for lunch Saturday. 3735 Summer. 323-4819. L, D, X, $-$$

QUEEN OF SHEBA—Featuring Middle Eastern favorites and Yemeni dishes such as lamb haneeth and saltah. 4792 Summer. 207-4174. L, D, $

SIDE PORCH STEAK HOUSE—In addition to steak, the menu includes chicken, pork chops, and fish entrees; homemade rolls are a specialty. Closed Sun./Mon. 5689 Stage Rd. 377-2484. D, X, $-$$

TORTILLERIA LA UNICA—Individual helping of Mexican street food, including hefty tamales, burritos, tortas, and sopes. 5015 Summer Ave. 685-0097. B, L, D, X, $

UNIVERSITY NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICT (INCLUDES CHICKASAW GARDENS AND HIGHLAND STRIP)

A-TAN—Serves Chinese and Japanese hibachi cuisine, complete with sushi bar. A specialty is Four Treasures with garlic sauce. 3445 Poplar, Suite 17, University Center. 452-4477. L, D, X, $-$$$

THE BLUFF—New Orleans-inspired menu includes alligator bites, nachos topped with crawfish and andouille, gumbo, po’boys, and fried seafood platters. 535 S. Highland. 454-7771. L, D, X, $-$$

BROTHER JUNIPER’S—This little cottage is a breakfast mecca, offering specialty omelets, including the open-faced San Diegan omelet; also daily specials, and homemade breads and pastries. Closed Mon. 3519 Walker. 324-0144. B, X, $

CHAR RESTAURANT—Specializing in modern Southern cuisine, this eatery offers homestyle sides, charbroiled steaks, and fresh seafood. 431 S. Highland, Suite 120. 249-3533. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$

DERAE RESTAURANT Ethiopian and Mediterranean fare includes fuul, or fava beans in spices and yogurt, goat meat and rice, and garlic chicken over basmati rice with cilantro chutney; also salmon and tilapia. Closed Monday. 923 S. Highland. 552-3992. B, L, D, $-$$

EL PORTON—Fajitas, quesadillas, and steak ranchero are just a few of the menu items. 2095 Merchants Row (Germantown). 754-4268; 8361 Highway 64. 380-7877; 3448 Poplar (Poplar Plaza). 452-7330; 1805 N. Germantown Parkway (Cordova). 624-9358; 1016 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-5770. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

MEDALLION—Offers steaks, seafood, chicken, and pasta entrees. Closed for dinner Sunday. 3700 Central, Holiday Inn (Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality). 678-1030. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

OPEN FLAME—This authentic Persian and Mediterranean eatery specializes in shish kebabs as well as kosher and halal fare. 3445 Poplar. 207-4995. L, D, X, $

PLANT BASED HEAT All of your favorite Southern-style recipes, but deliciously transformed into a vegan format. Specialties include the spicy fye junt burger, or the chopped ‘n’ smoked bbq jackfruit sandwich. Closed Sun. 669 S. Highland St. L, D, $

SAM’S DELI—Everything from sandwiches to bibimbap bowls at this local favorite. Closed Mon./Tue. 643 S. Highland St. 454-5582. L, D, $

EAST MEMPHIS (INCLUDES POPLAR/I-240)

ACRE—Features seasonal modern American cuisine in an avantegarde setting using locally sourced products; also small plates and enclosed garden patio. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 690 S. Perkins. 818-2273. L, D, X, $$-$$$

AGAVOS COCINA & TEQUILA—Camaron de Tequila, tamales, kabobs, and burgers made with a blend of beef and chorizo are among the offerings at this tequila-centric restaurant and bar. 2924 Walnut Grove. 433-9345. L, D, X, $-$$

AMERIGO—Traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine includes pasta, wood-fired pizza, steaks, and cedarwood-roasted fish. 1239 Ridgeway, Park Place Mall. 761-4000. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

ANDALUSIA— Authentic Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, brochettes, and briouates. 5101 Sanderlin Ave., Suite 103. 236-7784. L, D, $-$$

ANDREW MICHAEL ITALIAN KITCHEN—Traditional Italian cuisine with a menu from two of the city’s top chefs that changes seasonally with such entrees as Maw Maw’s ravioli. Closed Sun.-Mon. 712 W. Brookhaven Circle. 347-3569. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE—Offering several varieties of eggs Benedict, waffles, omelets, pancakes, beignets, and other breakfast fare; also burgers, sandwiches, and salads. 6063 Park Ave. 729-7020; 65 S. Highland. 623-7122. B, L, WB, X, $

ANTIGUA MEXICAN BAR & GRILL—Tortas, tacos, and other authentic Mexican cuisine alongside freshly-made salsa, guacamole, and white queso dip. 717 N. White Station Rd. 761-1374. L, D, $-$$

BANGKOK ALLEY—Thai fusion cuisine includes noodle and curry dishes, chef-specialty sushi rolls, coconut soup, and duck and seafood entrees. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. at Brookhaven location; call for hours. 715 W. Brookhaven Circle. 590-2585; 2150 W. Poplar at Houston Levee (Collierville). 854-8748. L, D, X, $-$$

BENIHANA—This Japanese steakhouse serves beef, chicken, and seafood grilled at the table; some menu items change monthly; sushi bar also featured. 912 Ridge Lake Blvd. 767-8980. L, D, X, $$-$$$

BIG BAD BREAKFAST—Fresh biscuits, house-made cured meats, jams, jellies, and more for the most important meal of the day. 6450 Poplar. 881-3346. B, L, $-$$

BROOKLYN BRIDGE ITALIAN RESTAURANT—Specializing in such homemade entrees as spinach lasagna and lobster ravioli; a seafood specialty is horseradish-crusted salmon. Closed Sun. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 755-7413. D, X, $-$$$

BRYANT’S BREAKFAST—Three-egg omelets, pancakes, and The Sampler Platter are among the popular entrees here. Possibly the best biscuits in town. Closed Mon. and Tues. 3965 Summer. 324-7494. B, L, X, $

BUCKLEY’S FINE FILET GRILL—Specializes in steaks, seafood, and pasta. (Lunchbox serves entree salads, burgers, and more.) 5355 Poplar. 683-4538; 919 S. Yates (Buckley’s Lunchbox), 682-0570. L (Yates only, M-F), D, X, $-$$

CAPITAL GRILLE—Known for its dry-aged, hand-carved steaks; among the specialties are bone-in sirloin, and porcini-rubbed Delmonico; also seafood entrees and seasonal lunch plates. Closed for lunch Sat.Sun. Crescent Center, 6065 Poplar. 683-9291. L, D, X, $$$-$$$$

CASABLANCA—Lamb shawarma is one of the fresh, homemade specialties served at this Mediterranean/Moroccan restaurant; fish entrees and vegetarian options also available. 5030 Poplar. 725-8557 ; 7609 Poplar Pike (Germantown). 425-5908; 1707 Madison. 421-6949. L, D, X, $-$$

CIAO BELLA—Among the Italian and Greek specialties are lasagna, seafood pasta, gourmet pizzas, and vegetarian options. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 565 Erin Dr., Erin Way Shopping Center. 205-2500. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$

CITY SILO TABLE + PANTRY—With a focus on clean eating, this establishment offers fresh juices, as well as comfort foods re-imagined with wholesome ingredients. 5101 Sanderlin. 729-7687. Germantown: 7605 W. Farmington Blvd., Suite 2. 236-7223. B, L, D, X, $

COASTAL FISH COMPANY—Upscale offerings of international fish varieties utilizing styles ranging from Carribbean, East Coast, West Coast, Chinese, to Filipino, and more. 415 Great View Dr. E., Suite 101. 266-9000. D, X, $$-$$$

CORKY’S—Popular barbecue emporium offers both wet and dry ribs, plus a full menu of other barbecue entrees. Wed. lunch buffets, Cordova and Collierville. 5259 Poplar. 685-9744; 1740 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 737-1911; 743 W. Poplar (Collierville). 405-4999; 6434 Goodman Rd., Olive Branch. 662-893-3663. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

DAN MCGUINNESS PUB—Serves fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, burgers, and other Irish and American fare; also lunch and dinner

specials. 4694 Spottswood. 761-3711; 3964 Goodman Rd. 662-8907611. L, D, X, $

DORY—Chef David Krog whips up Southern specialties with classic French techniques and locally sourced ingredients. Current specialties include pork tenderloin, beef bourguignon, or cocoa-dusted chocolate truffles, with new weekly additions. 716 W. Brookhaven Circle. 310-4290. L, D, X, $$-$$$

ERLING JENSEN—For decades, has presented “globally inspired” cuisine to die for. Specialties are rack of lamb, big game entrees, and fresh fish dishes. 1044 S. Yates. 763-3700. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

ERLING JENSEN SMALL BITES—Enjoy Erling Jensen’s specialty dishes in a sharable, small plate format alongside TopGolf Swing suites. 5069 Sanderlin Ave. 587-9464. L, D, X, $-$$$

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE—Serves wet-aged and dry-aged steaks, prime beef, chops, and seafood, including salmon, Australian lobster tails, and a catch of the day. 6245 Poplar. 761-6200. D, X, MRA, $$$-$$$$

FOLK’S FOLLY ORIGINAL PRIME STEAK HOUSE Specializes in prime steaks, as well as lobster, grilled Scottish salmon, Alaskan king crab legs, rack of lamb, and weekly specials. 551 S. Mendenhall. 762-8200. D, X, MRA, $$$-$$$$

FORMOSA—Offers Mandarin cuisine, including broccoli beef, hot-andsour soup, and spring rolls. Closed Mon. 6685 Quince. 753-9898. L, D, X, $-$$

FOX RIDGE PIZZA & GRILL—Pizzas, calzones, sub sandwiches, burgers, and meat-and-two plate lunches are among the dishes served at this eatery, which opened in 1979. 711 W. Brookhaven Circle. 758-6500. L, D, X, $

FRATELLI’S—Serves hot and cold sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts, all with an Italian/Mediterranean flair. Closed Sun. 750 Cherry Rd., Memphis Botanic Garden. 766-9900. L, X, $

FRANK GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT—Northern Italian favorites include pasta with jumbo shrimp and mushrooms; also seafood, filet mignon, and daily lunch specials. Closed for lunch Sun. Embassy Suites Hotel, 1022 S. Shady Grove. 761-9462. L, D, X, $-$$$

HALF SHELL—Specializes in seafood, such as king crab legs; also serves steaks, chicken, pastas, salads, sandwiches, a ”voodoo menu”; oyster bar at Winchester location. 688 S. Mendenhall. 682-3966; 7825 Winchester. 737-6755. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$

HEN HOUSE—Hybrid wine/cocktail bar and tasting room with plenty of cosmopolitan eats. Closed Sun. 679 S. Mendenhall. 499-5436. D, $-$$$

HIGH POINT PIZZA—Serves a variety of pizzas, subs, salads, and sides. Closed Mon. A neighborhood fixture. 477 High Point Terrace. 452-3339. L, D, X, $-$$

HOG & HOMINY—The casual sister to Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen serves brick-oven-baked pizzas, including the Red-Eye with pork belly, and small plates with everything from meatballs to beef and cheddar hot dogs; and local veggies. And with a few surprises this time around. Closed for lunch Mon. 707 W. Brookhaven Cir. 207-7396. L, D, SB, X, MRA. $-$$$

HOUSTON’S—Serves steaks, seafood, pork chops, chicken dishes, sandwiches, salads, and Chicago-style spinach dip. Famous for first-class service. 5000 Poplar. 683-0915. L, D, X $-$$$

LA BAGUETTE—An almond croissant and chicken salad are among specialties at this French-style bistro. Closed for dinner Sun. 3088 Poplar. 458-0900. B, L, D (closes at 7), X, MRA, $

LAS DELICIAS—Popular for its guacamole, house-made tortilla chips, and margaritas, this restaurant draws diners with its chicken enchiladas, meat-stuffed flautas, and Cuban torta with spicy pork. Closed Sun. 4002 Park Ave. 458-9264; 5689 Quince. 800-2873. L, D, X, $

LIBRO AT LAURELWOOD—Bookstore eatery features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and homemade pasta dishes, with Italian-inspired options such as carbonara and potato gnocchi. Closed for dinner Sun. 387 Perkins Ext. (Novel). 800-2656. B, L, D, SB, X, $-$$

LOST PIZZA—Offering pizzas (with dough made from scratch), pasta, salads, sandwiches, tamales, and more. 2855 Poplar. 572-1803; 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-892-8684. L, D, X, $-$$

MAGNOLIA & MAY—The family behind Grove Grill cooks up Southern-inspired casual dining at this country brasserie, with popular menu items like peach gazpacho, low country shrimp n’ grits, and plenty of weekend brunch options. Closed Mon. 718 Mt. Moriah Rd. 676-8100. D, SB, MRA. $$-$$$.

MAHOGANY MEMPHIS—Upscale Southern restaurant offers such dishes as coffee-rubbed lamb chops and baked Cajun Cornish hen. Closed for dinner Sun. and all day Mon.-Tues. 3092 Poplar, Suite 11. 623-7977. L, D, SB, X, $-$$$

MARCIANO MEDITERRANEAN AND ITALIAN CUISINE—Veal Saltimbocca with angel-hair pasta and white wine sauce is among the entrees; also steaks, seafood, and gourmet pizza. 780 E. Brookhaven Cir. 682-1660. D, X, $-$$

MAYURI INDIAN CUISINE—Serves tandoori chicken, masala dosa, tikka masala, as well as lamb and shrimp entrees; also a daily lunch buffet, and dinner buffet on Fri.-Sat. 6524 Quince Rd. 753-8755. L, D, X, $-$$

MELLOW MUSHROOM—Large menu includes assortment of pizzas, salads, calzones, hoagies, vegetarian options, and 50 beers on tap. 5138 Park Ave. 562-1211; 9155 Poplar, Shops of Forest Hill (Germantown). 907-0243. L, D, X, $-$$

MOSA ASIAN BISTRO—Specialties include sesame chicken, Thai calamari, rainbow panang curry with grouper fish, and other Pan Asian/ fusion entrees. Closed Mon. 850 S. White Station Rd. 683-8889. L, D, X, MRA, $

NAM KING—Offers luncheon and dinner buffets, dim sum, and such specialties as fried dumplings, pepper steak, and orange chicken. 4594 Yale. 373-4411. L, D, X, $

NAPA CAFE—Among the specialties are miso-marinated salmon over black rice with garlic spinach and shiitake mushrooms. Closed Sun. 5101 Sanderlin, Suite 122. 683-0441. L, D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

NEW HUNAN—Chinese eatery with more than 80 entrees; also lunch/ dinner buffets. 5052 Park. 766-1622. L, D, X, $

ONE & ONLY BBQ—On the menu are pork barbecue sandwiches, platters, wet and dry ribs, smoked chicken and turkey platters, a smoked meat salad, barbecue quesadillas, Brunswick Stew, and Millie’s homemade desserts. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 751-3615; 567 Perkins Extd. 249-4227. L, D, X, $

ONO POKÉ—This eatery specializes in poké — a Hawaiian dish of fresh fish salad served over rice. Menu includes a variety of poké bowls, like the Kimchi Tuna bowl, or customers can build their own by choosing a base, protein, veggies, and toppings. 3145 Poplar. 618-2955. L, D, X , $

OWEN BRENNAN’S—New Orleans-style menu of beef, chicken, pasta, and seafood; jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and crawfish etouffee are specialties. Closed for dinner Sun. The Regalia, 6150 Poplar. 761-0990. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

PARK + CHERRY—The Dixon offers casual dining within the museum. Seasonal menu features sandwiches, like rustic chicken salad on croissant, as well as salads, snacks, and sweets. Closed for breakfast Sun. and all day Mon. 4339 Park (Dixon Gallery and Gardens). 761-5250. L, X, $

PATRICK’S—Serves barbecue nachos, burgers, and entrees such as fish and chips; also plate lunches and daily specials. 4972 Park. 682-2852. L, D, X, MRA, $

PETE & SAM’S—Serving Memphis for 60-plus years; offers steaks, seafood, and traditional Italian dishes, including homemade ravioli, lasagna, and chicken marsala. 3886 Park. 458-0694. D, X, $-$$$

PF CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO—Specialties are orange peel shrimp, Mongolian beef, and chicken in lettuce wraps; also vegetarian dishes, including spicy eggplant. 1181 Ridgeway Rd., Park Place Centre. 8183889. L, D, X, $-$$

PHO SAIGON—Vietnamese fare includes beef teriyaki, roasted quail, curry ginger chicken, vegetarian options, and a variety of soups. 2946 Poplar. 458-1644. L, D, $

PIMENTO’S KITCHEN + MARKET—Fresh sandwiches, soups, salads, and plenty of pimento cheese at this family-owned restaurant. 6540 Poplar Ave. 602-5488 (Collierville: 3751 S. Houston Levee. 453-6283). L, D, X, $

PYRO’S FIRE-FRESH PIZZA—Serving gourmet pizzas cooked in an open-fire oven, wide choice of toppings, and large local and craft beer selection. 1199 Ridgeway. 379-8294; 2035 Union Ave. 208-8857; 2286 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 207-1198; 3592 S. Houston Levee (Collierville). 221-8109. L, D, X, MRA, $

RED HOOK CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Cajun-style array of seafood including shrimp, mussels, clams, crawfish, and oysters. 3295 Poplar. 207-1960. L, D, X, $-$$

RED KOI—Classic Japanese cuisine offered at this family-run restaurant; hibachi steaks, sushi, seafood, chicken, and vegetables. 5847 Poplar. 767-3456. L, D, X $-$$

RED PIER CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Owners of Red Hook bring more cajun-style seafood dishes. 5901 Poplar Ave. 5125923. L, D, $-$$$

RESTAURANT IRIS—French Creole-inspired classics, such as Gulf shrimp and rice grits congee served with lap chong sausage and boiled peanuts, are served at this newly remodeled restaurant owned by Chef Kelly English, a Food and Wine “Top Ten.” Opening soon at 4550 Poplar. 590-2828. D, X, $$-$$$

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RIVER OAKS—Chef Jose Gutierrez’s French-style bistro serves seafood and steaks, with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 5871 Poplar Ave. 683-9305. L, D, X, $$$

RONNIE GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT— This Memphis institution serves some family classics such as Elfo’s Special and handmade ravioli, along with house-made pizza and fresh oysters. Closed Sun. 6150 Poplar, Suite 122. 850-0191. D, X, $-$$$

ROTOLO’S CRAFT & CRUST—Louisiana-based pizza company’s first Memphis location, whipping up pizza pies with homemade sauces and fresh ingredients, pasta, wings, and other shareables. 681 S. White Station. 454-3352. L, D, $-$$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE—Offers prime steaks cut and aged in-house, as well as lamb, chicken, and fresh seafood, including lobster. 6120 Poplar. 761-0055. D, X, $$$-$$$$

SALSA—Mexican-Southern California specialties include carnitas, enchiladas verde, and fajitas; also Southwestern seafood dishes such as snapper verde. Closed Sun. Regalia Shopping Center, 6150 Poplar, Suite 129. 683-6325. L, D, X, $-$$

SAUCY CHICKEN—Specializes in antibiotic-free chicken dishes with locally sourced ingredients, with such items as hot wings and the Crosstown Chicken Sandwich, and a variety of house-made dipping sauces; also, seafood, salads, and daily specials. Closed Sun. 4715 Poplar. 907-0741. L, D, $

SEASONS 52—This elegant fresh grill and wine bar offers a seasonally changing menu using fresh ingredients, wood-fire grilling, and brick-oven cooking; also a large international wine list and nightly piano bar. Crescent Center, 6085 Poplar. 682-9952. L, D, X, $$-$$$

SOBEAST—Eastern branch of the popular South of Beale, featuring the restaurant’s traditional staples, as well as rotating special menu items. 5040 Sanderlin. 818-0821. L, D, SB, X, $-$$.

STAKS—Offering pancakes, including birthday cake and lemon ricotta. Menu includes other breakfast items such as beignets and French toast, as well as soups and sandwiches for lunch. 4615 Poplar. 509-2367; 7704 Poplar (Germantown). 800-1951; 2902 May Blvd. (Southaven). B, L, WB, X, $

SWANKY’S TACO SHOP—Taco-centric eatery offers tortas, flatbreads, quesadillas, chimichangas, burgers, and more. 4770 Poplar. 730-0763; 6641 Poplar (Germantown). 737-2088; 272 S. Main. 7793499. L, D, X, $

THREE LITTLE PIGS—Pork-shoulder-style barbecue with tangy mild or hot sauce, freshly made coleslaw, and baked beans. 5145 Quince Rd. 685-7094. B, L, D, X, $

TOPS BAR-B-Q—Specializes in pork barbecue sandwiches and sandwich plates with beans and slaw; also serves ribs, beef brisket, and burgers. 1286 Union. 725-7527; 4183 Summer. 324-4325; 5391 Winchester. 794-7936; 3970 Rhodes. 323-9865; 6130 Macon. 3710580. For more locations, go online. L, D, X, $

TORCHY’S TACOS—Plenty of Tex-Mex variety, with creative monthly special tacos. 719 S. Mendenhall. 343-8880. B, L, D, $

VENICE KITCHEN—Specializes in “eclectic Italian” and Southern Creole, from pastas, including the “Godfather,” to hand-tossed pizzas, including the “John Wayne”; choose from 50 toppings. 368 Perkins Ext. 767-6872. L, D, SB, X, $-$$

WANG’S MANDARIN HOUSE—Offers Mandarin, Cantonese, Szechuan, and spicy Hunan entrees, including the golden-sesame chicken; next door is East Tapas, serving small plates with an Asian twist. 6065 Park Ave., Park Place Mall. 763-0676. L, D, X, $-$$

WASABI—Serving traditional Japanese offerings, hibachi, sashimi, and sushi. The Sweet Heart roll, wrapped — in the shape of a heart — with tuna and filled with spicy salmon, yellowtail, and avocado, is a specialty. 5101 Sanderlin Rd., Suite 105. 421-6399. L, D, X, $-$$

WOMAN’S EXCHANGE TEA ROOM—Chicken-salad plate, beef tenderloin, soups-and-sandwiches, and vegetable plates are specialties; meal includes drink and dessert. Closed Sat.-Sun. 88 Racine. 327-5681. L, X, $

ZAYDE’S AT THE J—Kosher options at the Memphis Jewish Community Center cafe include traditional New York-style dishes and Israeli fusion. 6560 Poplar Ave. 208-3495. L, D, $-$$

CORDOVA

BOMBAY HOUSE—Indian fare includes lamb korma and chicken tikka; also, a daily luncheon buffet. 1727 N. Germantown Pkwy. 755-4114. L, D, X, $-$$

THE BUTCHER SHOP—Serves steaks ranging from 8-oz. filets to a 20-oz. porterhouse; also chicken, pork chops, fresh seafood. 107 S. Germantown Rd. 757-4244. L (Fri. and Sun.), D, X, $$-$$$

GREEN BAMBOO—Pineapple tilapia, pork vermicelli, and the soft egg noodle combo are Vietnamese specialties here. 990 N. Germantown Parkway, Suite 104. 753-5488. L, D, $-$$

JIM ’N NICK’S BAR-B-Q—Serves barbecued pork, ribs, chicken, brisket, and fish, along with other homemade Southern specialties. 2359 N. Germantown Pkwy. 388-0998. L, D, X, $-$$

EL MERO TACO—This food truck turned restaurant serves up Mexican and Southern-style fusion dishes, including fried chicken tacos, chorizo con papas tacos, and brisket quesadillas. 8100 Macon Station, Suite 102. 308-1661. Closed Sun.-Mon. L, D, WB, X, $

POKÉ WORLD—Serves up Hawaiian poké bowls filled with rice and diced, raw fish. Also offers Taiwanese bubble tea and rolled ice cream for dessert. 1605 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 111. 623-7986. East Memphis: 575 Erin Dr. 779-4971. L, D, $

SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT—Entrees include tempura, teriyaki, and sushi, as well as grilled fish and chicken entrees. 2324 N. Germantown Pkwy. 384-4122. L, D, X, $-$$

TANNOOR GRILL—Brazilian-style steakhouse with skewers served tableside, along with Middle Eastern specialties; vegetarian options also available. 830 N. Germantown Pkwy. 443-5222. L, D, X, $-$$$

GERMANTOWN

BLUE HONEY BISTRO—Entrees at this upscale eatery include brown butter scallops served with Mississippi blue rice and herbcrusted beef tenderloin with vegetables and truffle butter. Closed Sun. 9155 Poplar, Suite 17. 552-3041. D, X, $-$$$

FOREST HILL GRILL—A variety of standard pub fare and a selection of mac-and-cheese dishes are featured on the menu. Specialties include Chicken Newport and a barbecue salmon BLT. 9102 Poplar Pike. 6246001. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$

GERMANTOWN COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches; Mon.-night all-you-can-eat ribs. 2290 S. Germantown Rd. S. 754-5540. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

LAS TORTUGAS DELI MEXICANA—Authentic Mexican food prepared from local food sources; specializes in tortugas — grilled bread scooped out to hold such powerfully popular fillings as brisket, pork, and shrimp; also tingas, tostados. Closed Sun. 1215 S. Germantown Rd. 751-1200; 6300 Poplar. 623-3882. L, D, X, $-$$

LIMELIGHT—Wolf River Hospitality Group brings Wagyu beef, swordfish steaks, and plenty of other fine dining and colorful cocktails to Germantown. Closed Mon./Tue. 7724 Poplar Pike. 791-2328. D, $-$$$

MOONDANCE GRILL—From the owners of Itta Bena and Lafayette’s. Serves steak cooked sous vide and seafood dishes including Abita-barbecued shrimp and pan-seared sand dab, in addition to an extensive wine and cocktail list. 1730 S. Germantown Road, Suite 117. 755-1471. L, D, X, $$-$$$

NOODLES ASIAN BISTRO—Serves a variety of traditional Asian cuisine, with emphasis on noodle dishes, such as Singapore Street Noodles and Hong Kong Chow Fun. 7850 Poplar, Suite 12. 755-1117. L, D, X, $

PETRA CAFÉ—Serves Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern sandwiches, gyros, and entrees. Hours vary; call. 6641 Poplar. 754-4440; 547 S. Highland. 323-3050. L, D, X, $-$$

ROCK’N DOUGH PIZZA CO.—Specialty and custom pizzas made from fresh ingredients; wide variety of toppings. 7850 Poplar, Suite 6. 779-2008. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $$

ROYAL PANDA—Hunan fish, Peking duck, Royal Panda chicken and shrimp, and a seafood combo are among the specialties. 3120 Village Shops Dr. 756-9697. L, D, X, $-$$

SAKURA—Sushi, tempura, and teriyaki are Japanese specialties here. 2060 West St. 758-8181; 4840 Poplar. 572-1002; 255 New Byhalia Rd. 316-5638. L, D, X, $-$$

SOUTHERN SOCIAL—Shrimp and grits, stuffed quail, and Aunt Thelma’s Fried Chicken are among the dishes served at this upscale Southern establishment. 2285 S. Germantown Rd. 754-5555. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$

TAZIKI’S—Mediterranean-inspired dishes all made from scratch. 7850 Poplar Ave., Suite 26. 612-2713. East Memphis: 540 S. Mendenhall Rd. 290-1091. Bartlett: 7974 US-64. 203-0083. L, D, $

THE TOASTED YOLK CAFE—Churro donuts, signature Eggs Benedict, and plenty other boozy brunch options at this franchise’s first Tennessee location. 9087 Poplar Ave., Ste. 11. B, L, $-$$

UNCLE GOYO’S—More than 30 dishes with a focus on authentic Mexican cuisine, from the brains behind TacoNganas. 1730 S. Germantown Rd. L, D, $-$$

WEST STREET DINER—This home-style eatery offers breakfast, burgers, po’boys, and more. 2076 West St. 757-2191. B, L, D (Mon.-Fri.), X, $

ZEN JAPANESE FINE CUISINE—A full sushi bar and plenty of authentic Japanese dishes, like Hibachi or Wagyu beef. 1730 S. Germantown Rd. 779-2796. L, D, X, X, $-$$$

COLLIERVILLE

CAFE EUROPE—From Italian chef Michele D’oto, the French, Spanish, and Italian fusion cuisine includes a variety of dishes like Rosette al Forno, fish ceviche, and sole meuniere. Closed Sun. 4610 Merchants Park Circle, Suite 571. 286-4199. L, D, X, $$-$$$$

CAFE PIAZZA BY PAT LUCCHESI—Specializes in gourmet pizzas (including create-your-own), panini sandwiches, and pasta. Closed Sun. 139 S. Rowlett St. 861-1999. L, D, X, $-$$

CIAO BABY—Specializing in Neapolitan-style pizza made in a woodfired oven. Also serves house-made mozzarella, pasta, appetizers, and salads. 890 W. Poplar, Suite 1. 457-7457. L, D, X, $

COLLIERVILLE COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches. 3573 S. Houston Levee Rd. 979-5540. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$

COLLIERVILLE PIZZA COMPANY—Family-friendly and locally owned pizza company featuring live music and other events. 144 US 72. L, D, $-$$

DAVID GRISANTI’S—Serving Northern Italian cuisine and traditional family recipes, like the Elfo Special, shrimp sauteed in garlic and butter, tossed with white button mushrooms and white pepper, and served over vermicelli with Parmigiano-Reggiano. Closed Sun. 684 W. Poplar (Sheffield Antiques Mall). 861-1777. L, D (Thurs.-Sat.), X, $-$$$

EL MEZCAL—Serves burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, and other Mexican cuisine, as well as shrimp dinners and steak. 9947 Wolf River, 853-7922; 402 Perkins Extd. 761-7710; 694 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 755-1447; 1492 Union. 274-4264; 11615 Airline Rd. (Arlington). 867-1883; 9045 Highway 64 (Lakeland). 383-4219; 7164 Hacks Cross Rd. (Olive Branch). 662-890-3337; 8834 Hwy. 51 N. (Millington). 872-3220; 7424 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 417-6026. L, D, X, $

EMERALD THAI RESTAURANT—Spicy shrimp, pad khing, lemongrass chicken, and several noodle, rice, and vegetarian dishes are offered at this family restaurant. Closed Sunday. 8950 Highway 64 (Lakeland, TN). 384-0540. L, D, X, $-$$

FIREBIRDS—Specialties are hand-cut steaks, slow-roasted prime rib, and wood-grilled salmon and other seafood, as well as seasonal entrees. 4600 Merchants Circle, Carriage Crossing. 850-1637; 8470 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 379-1300. L, D, X, $-$$$

JIM’S PLACE GRILLE—Features American, Greek, and Continental cuisine. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 3660 Houston Levee. 861-5000. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$

MULAN ASIAN BISTRO—Hunan Chicken, tofu dishes, and orange beef served here; sushi and Thai food, too. 2059 Houston Levee. 850-5288; 2149 Young. 347-3965; 4698 Spottswood. 609-8680. L, D, X, $-$$

OSAKA JAPANESE CUISINE—Featuring an extensive sushi menu as well as traditional Japanese and hibachi dining. Hours vary for lunch; call. 3670 Houston Levee. 861-4309; 3402 Poplar. 249-4690; 7164 Hacks Cross (Olive Branch). 662-890-9312; 2200 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 425-4901. L, D, X, $-$$$

RAVEN & LILY—Eatery offers innovative Southern-inspired cuisine with such dishes as crispy shrimp and cauliflower salad, spiced lamb sausage and parmesan risotto, and bananas foster pain perdu. Closed Mon. 120 E. Mulberry. 286-4575. L, D, SB, X, $-$$

STIX—Hibachi steakhouse with Asian cuisine features steak, chicken, and a fillet and lobster combination, also sushi. A specialty is Dynamite Chicken with fried rice. 4680 Merchants Park Circle, Avenue Carriage Crossing. 854-3399. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 115 (Downtown). 207-7638 L, D, X, $-$$

WOLF RIVER BRISKET CO.—From the owners of Pyro’s Fire Fresh Pizza, highlights include house-smoked meats: prime beef brisket, chicken, and salmon. Closed Sun. 9947 Wolf River Boulevard, Suite 101. 316-5590; 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 165. 791-4389 L, D, X, $-$$

ZOPITA’S ON THE SQUARE—Cafe offers sandwiches, including smoked salmon and pork tenderloin, as well as salads and desserts. Closed Sun. 114 N. Main. 457-7526. L, D, X, $

OUT-OF-TOWN

BOZO’S HOT PIT BAR-B-Q—Barbecue, burgers, sandwiches, and subs. 342 Highway 70 (Mason, TN). 901-294-3400. L, D, $-$$

CATFISH BLUES—Serving Delta-raised catfish and Cajun- and Southern-inspired dishes, including gumbo and fried green tomatoes. 210 E. Commerce (Hernando, MS). 662-298-3814. L, D, $

CITY GROCERY—Southern eclectic cuisine; shrimp and grits is a specialty. Closed for dinner Sun. 152 Courthouse Square (Oxford, MS). 662-232-8080. L, D, SB, X, $$-$$$

COMO STEAKHOUSE—Steaks cooked on a hickory charcoal grill are a specialty here. Upstairs is an oyster bar. Closed Sun. 203 Main St. (Como, MS). 662-526-9529. D, X, $-$$$

ELFO GRISANTI’S NORTHERN ITALIAN CUISINE—Grisanti family classics like lasagna, homemade ravioli, garlic bread, and Northern Italian pizza. Closed Sun. 5627 Getwell Rd. (Southaven, MS). 662-4704497. L, D, X, $-$$

LONG ROAD CIDER CO.—Specializes in hard apple ciders made with traditional methods. Cafe-style entrees include black-eyed peas with cornbread and greens, chicken Gorgonzola pockets, cider-steamed sausage, and housemade ice creams. Closed Sun.-Wed. 9053 Barret Road. (Barretville, TN). 352-0962. D, X, $

MANILA FILIPINO RESTAURANT—Entrees include pork belly cutlet with lechon sauce, and shrimp and vegetables in tamarind broth; also daily combos, rice dishes, and chef specials. Closed Sun.-Mon. 7849 Rockford (Millington, TN). 209-8525. L, D, X, $

CASINO TABLES

CHICAGO STEAKHOUSE AT THE GOLDSTRIKE—1010 Casino Center Dr., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-24KSTAY /662-357-1225

FAIRBANKS AT THE HOLLYWOOD—1150 Casino Strip Blvd., Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-871-0711

IGNITE STEAKHOUSE AT SOUTHLAND CASINO RACING—1550 N. Ingram Blvd., West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182

JACK BINION’S STEAK HOUSE AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center Drive, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE

LUCKY 8 ASIAN BISTRO AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center Drive, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE

SOUTHLAND CASINO HOTEL'S THE KITCHENS—1550 N. Ingram Blvd., West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182

THE STEAKHOUSE AT THE FITZ—711 Lucky Ln., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-766-LUCK, ext 8213

TWAIN’S STEAKHOUSE AT SAM’S TOWN TUNICA—1477 Casino Strip Resorts Boulevard, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-456-0711

MARSHALL STEAKHOUSE—Rustic steakhouse serves premium Angus beef steaks, seafood dishes, rack of lamb, and more. 2379 Highway 178 (Holly Springs, MS). 628-3556. B, L, D, X, $-$$$

MEMPHIS BARBECUE COMPANY—Offers spare ribs, baby backs, and pulled pork and brisket. 709 Desoto Cove (Horn Lake, MS). 662536-3762. L, D, X, $-$$

NAGOYA—Offers traditional Japanese cuisine and sushi bar; specialties are teriyaki and tempura dishes. 7075 Malco Blvd., Suite 101 (Southaven, MS). 662-349-8788. L, D, X, $-$$$

PIG-N-WHISTLE—Offers pork shoulder sandwiches, wet and dry ribs, catfish, nachos, and stuffed barbecue potatoes. 6084 Kerr-Rosemark Rd. (Millington, TN). 872-2455. L, D, X, $

RAVINE—Serves contemporary Southern cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally grown foods and a menu that changes weekly. Closed Mon.-Tues. 53 Pea Ridge/County Rd. 321 (Oxford, MS). 662-234-4555. D, SB, X, $$-$$$

SAINT LEO’S—Offering sophisticated pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and salads. A James Beard nominee for Best New Restaurant in 2017. 1101 Jackson (Oxford, MS). 662-234-4555. D, L, WB, $-$$

SNACKBAR—An intriguing mix of “French Bistro with North Mississippi Cafe.” Serving a confit duck Croque Monsieur, watermelon-cucumber chaat, pan-fried quail, plus a daily plate special and a raw bar. 721 N. Lamar (Oxford, MS). 662-236-6363. D, $-$$$

TEKILA MODERN MEXICAN—Modern interpretations of classic dishes from all over Mexico. 6343 Getwell Rd. (Southaven, MS). 662-510-5734. B, L, D, $-$$

WILSON CAFE— An impressive culinary destination in the heart of the Arkansas Delta. Serving jambalaya, Waygu flatiron, butternut ravioli, swordfish & shrimp kabobs, burgers. 2 N. Jefferson (Wilson, AR). 870-655-0222. L, D, WB, $-$$$

ILLUSTRATIONS BY MARTHA PARK

THE BMW ROAD HOME SALES EVENT

BRING HOME THE THRILL THIS WINTER.

Meet the BMWs that will bring the holiday cheer. Ride comfortably and in style with the entire family in the larger-than-luxury X7, or take on the embodiment of elegance in a 2023 BMW 5 Series. Or get behind the wheel of a natural leader – on the road and off – with the ever-capable X5.

The ultimate fleet is ready for any journey home for the holidays. Hurry in to the BMW Road Home Sales Event for exceptional offers on select models now through January 3rd.

Contact a Client Advisor at Roadshow BMW or shop online at ROADSHOWBMW.com.

BMW. The Ultimate Driving Machine.®

Roadshow BMW

405 N. Germantown Parkway

Memphis Cordova, TN 38018 (901) 365-2584

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