Memphis December 2025 by Contemporary Media

THOMAS QUEEN OF MEMPHIS SOUL

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28 Gee Whiz, It’s Carla Thomas

The legendary soul singer’s lifelong search for knowledge and wisdom — from the library stacks to Stax Records — has elevated her artistry.

38 Sowing Seeds of Community Change

A former chef is on a mission — teaching people to cook.

Our annual look at the local professionals devoted to our pearly whites.

Lakeland holds a pair of surprises.

CEO AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF anna traverse

EXECUTIVE EDITOR michael finger

MANAGING EDITOR frank murtaugh

SENIOR EDITORS jon w. sparks, abigail morici, bruce vanwyngarden

STAFF WRITERS michael donahue, alex greene, chris mccoy

EDITORIAL INTERN jadyn cerna

CONTRIBUTORS jesse davis, tom jones, vance lauderdale

CREATIVE DIRECTOR brian groppe

ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR christopher myers

GRAPHIC DESIGNER neil williams

ILLUSTRATOR martha park

PHOTOGRAPHERS

justin fox burks, captures by katie, michael donahue, karen pulfer focht, joshua timmermans, bruce vanwyngarden, andrew yale

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE shaune mcghee

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES kelli dewitt, chip googe

4 published by contemporary media, inc. memphis, tennessee 901-521-9000 subscriptions: 901-575-9470

CONTROLLER lynn sparagowski

CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER jeffrey a. goldberg

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER margie neal

DIGITAL SERVICES DIRECTOR kristin pawlowski

WAREHOUSE MANAGER chet hastings

NEWSSTAND CONSULTANT joe luca

SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR molly willmott

PUBLISHER EMERITUS kenneth neill

december 2025

It’s Awful Nice, It’s Paradise

BY ANNA TRAVERSE

Welcome to 2025’s final issue of M EMPHIS M AGAZINE . It’s been a big year here, I realize as the calendar is about to turn. Our cover stories have explored topics as various as: the local history at the public library’s Memphis and Shelby County Room; a coﬀee roaster who’s built an all-Black supply chain; a mid-century modern home, beautifully preserved; the Delta blues inspiration for the Sinners movie and score; a local bookstore celebrating 150 years in business; and a 90-year-old man endeavoring to hike the entire Appalachian Trail. And that’s only mentioning 50 percent of our cover stories, let alone all the other work that ﬁlled the 12 issues of this magazine.

To close the year, we are so thrilled to bring you a cover story about the legendary, lovely Carla omas, the Queen of Memphis Soul. It would be natural to assume that at some point in our nearly 50-year history, omas would have graced our cover. But this is a ﬁrst, and long overdue. I loved learning more about her from Alex Greene’s writing, including that we both chose to study English Renaissance poetry in our younger lives. I can’t even begin to sing like she can, though. Gee whiz, indeed.

Shortly before we went to press with this issue, I found myself, ﬁttingly, at the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, the jewel of Soulsville and a really moving tribute to the art that was created at Stax Records. Several of my in-laws were in town for the weekend, and — music-lovers all — we had a feeling they would appreciate the chance to explore what might as well be hallowed ground. If anything, I underestimated how many memories the museum would unearth in both my father-in-law and his wife — they grew up listening to so much of the music created just a few miles from our house.

My favorite memory from that day, though, is this: While we were watching the scene-setting video at the beginning of the tour, I checked my email, and opened an early version of this month’s cover, featuring Carla omas herself. I showed the image on my phone to my in-laws, and they lit up — so excited that the history we were about to experience remains vital and celebrated today.

at’s something I love about Memphis: e past, good and bad, is very much still present. We don’t just mothball our history and move on. We delve deeply into the stories of this city, even or especially the complicated stories, and try to make meaning

of our past. Some say Memphis is particularly haunted, and I can understand why. But to me, it feels more accurate to say that everything that’s ever happened here is still happening. Stax is rolling out hit records, and it’s being demolished after going bankrupt — both at the same time. Carla omas is singing a duet with her father, Rufus; she’s reading John Donne in college; she’s 82, appearing at Crosstown’s Listening Lab to mark a vinyl reissue — all at once. It’s all right here. Gee whiz.

Wayne Fogle, Linda Fogle, Anna Traverse, and Cameron Fogle outside Stax.

DECEMBER 2025

COMPILED BY ABIGAIL MORICI

JUNIE B. JONES THE MUSICAL Based on the popular children’s book by Barbara Park, this stage adaptation follows the energetic and outspoken ﬁrst-grader, Junie B. Jones. PLAYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE, THROUGH DECEMBER 20

A TUNA CHRISTMAS Set in the ﬁctional town of Tuna, Texas, the annual Christmas Yard Display Contest is about to commence. CIRCUIT PLAYHOUSE, THROUGH DECEMBER 21

IF SCROOGE WAS A BROTHER In this urban spin of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the ghosts and characters are icons of Black culture. HATTILOO THEATRE, THROUGH DECEMBER 21

THE WIZARD OF OZ Dorothy and Toto get swept away to the wonderful land of Oz. PLAYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE, THROUGH DECEMBER 21

ENCHANTED FOREST FESTIVAL OF TREES See a magical snowy setting of an enchanted forest with animated characters, holiday carols, Santa, and more. PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION, THROUGH DECEMBER 28

HOLIDAY WONDERS AT THE GARDEN Step into a world of twinkling lights, cozy moments, and holiday magic as the Memphis Botanic Garden transforms into a winter wonderland. MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN, SELECT NIGHTS THROUGH DECEMBER 30

STARRY NIGHTS This long-running event — the largest annual fundraiser for Shelby Farms Park and Shelby Farms Greenline — returns with light displays galore. SHELBY FARMS PARK, THROUGH JANUARY 3 LANTERN FESTIVAL The inaugural Lantern Festival promises a one-of-a-kind holiday experience featuring more than 60 larger-thanlife illuminated ﬁxtures. MEMPHIS ZOO, SELECT NIGHTS THROUGH FEBRUARY 1

HANDEL’S MESSIAH Under the direction of music director Robert Moody, this annual holiday tradition will be a stirring and majestic experience. GERMANTOWN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, DECEMBER 2, 7:30 P.M. | LINDENWOOD CHRISTIAN CHURCH,

DECEMBER 3, 7:30 P.M. | MAPLES MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, DECEMBER 4, 7:30 P.M.

MEET THE AUTHOR: ACE ATKINS Novel welcomes Ace Atkins to celebrate the release of his new novel, Everybody Wants To Rule The World NOVEL, DECEMBER 3, 6 P.M.

MEMPHIS TIGERS BASKETBALL Dec. 3 vs. New Orleans, Dec. 6 vs. Baylor, Dec. 17 vs. Vanderbilt, Dec. 22 vs. Alabama State, Dec. 31 vs. North Texas. FEDEXFORUM

MOVIES AND BREWS: THE THING Enjoy locally brewed beer with a side of a classic movie. PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION, DECEMBER 4, 5:30–9:30 P.M.

HOLIDAY DINNER ON STAGE Join the Orpheum for a night of celebration, delicious food, and the magic of a live performance. ORPHEUM THEATRE, DECEMBER 4, 6 P.M.

HOLI-DATE NIGHT 2025 (21+) Enjoy this magical season’s wonder and merriment with your special someone. MEMPHIS BOTANIC GARDEN, DECEMBER 4, 6:30–9 P.M.

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES NBA BASKETBALL Dec. 5 vs. LA, Dec. 7 vs. Portland, Dec. 20 vs. Washington, Dec. 26 vs. Milwaukee, Dec. 30 vs. Philadelphia. FEDEXFORUM

MEMPHIS TIGERS FOOTBALL Dec. 5 vs. American Championship winner. SIMMONS BANK LIBERTY STADIUM DREW & ELLIE HOLCOMB’S NEIGHBORLY

CHRISTMAS Celebrate the season with a joyful night of music, community, and Americana charm from this beloved duo of award-winning artists. ORPHEUM THEATRE, DECEMBER 5, 8 P.M.

KORTLAND WHALUM Two-step into a new golden era of music with Kortland Whalum. THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS, DECEMBER 5, 7:30 P.M.

THE WEDDING SINGER Based on the hit comedy starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, this musical is full of laughs. BARTLETT PERFORMING ARTS & CONFERENCE CENTER, FRIDAY–SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5–7

BLACK CHEF’S TABLE: CHEF ELI Hattiloo invites you to a one-of-a-kind dining and theater experience celebrating Memphis culinary talent and Black artistry. HATTILOO THEATRE, DECEMBER 5-7

CHRISTMAS GEMS Join Tennessee Shakespeare Company for two one-act plays together: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle and Dylan Thomas’ A Child’s Christmas in Wales TENNESSEE SHAKESPEARE COMPANY, DECEMBER 5–21

A CHRISTMAS CAROL ’25 Theatre Memphis presents the holiday classic. LOHREY THEATRE, DECEMBER 5–23

ANNIE JR. THE MUSICAL With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. GERMANTOWN COMMUNITY THEATRE, DECEMBER 5–21

NUTCRACKER: LAND OF ENCHANTED SWEETS The timeless tale of Clara and her cherished Nutcracker comes to life. BUCKMAN ARTS CENTER AT ST. MARY’S SCHOOL, DECEMBER 5–7

FIRE PIT FRIDAYS Cozy up by the ﬁre and celebrate the holiday season on the riverfront with themed nights like Salsa by the Fire (December 5) and Storytime with Santa (December 19). TOM LEE PARK, DECEMBER 5 & 19, 4:30–6:30 P.M.

OVERTON SQUARE TREE LIGHTING The Square will be ﬁlled with snow as it welcomes the arrival of Santa Claus. OVERTON SQUARE, DECEMBER 5, 5–7 P.M.

ST. JUDE MARATHON WEEKEND The largest singleday fundraising event for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital brings runners and walkers through Beale Street, the Mississippi riverfront, historic neighborhoods, and the St. Jude campus, in a marathon, half-marathon, 10K, 5K, or two-race challenge. VARIOUS LOCATIONS, DECEMBER 6

CHRISTMAS WITH C.S. LEWIS Discover how a particular encounter with his great friend and fellow author, J.R.R. Tolkien, forever changed C.S. Lewis’ Christmas celebrations. HALLORAN CENTRE, DECEMBER 6, 2 P.M. & 7:30 P.M.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY LIVE PRESENTS THE CONCERT TO PROTECT OUR AQUIFER Supporting the protection, conservation, and management of the Memphis Sand Aquifer, this night features Shemekia Copeland, Bobby Rush with Kenny Wayne Shepherd, James McMurtry, and Alice Howe & Freebo. Special guests include Eric Lewis and Jimmy Davis. FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, DECEMBER 7, 7 P.M. L’AVVENTURA LONDON: “CONCERTS FOR WELLBEING” Discover an evening where sound becomes medicine. THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS, DECEMBER 9, 7:30 P.M.

MARK EDGAR STUART & THE BLUESHIFT ENSEMBLE WITH SPECIAL GUESTS BAILEY BIGGER, ALEXIS GRACE, & INFINITY STAIRS Beloved Memphis singersongwriter Mark Edgar Stuart joins The Blueshift Ensemble once again for their fourth annual Christmas show. THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS, DECEMBER 11, 7:30 P.M.

LASER ROCK: QUEEN This one-of-a-kind show will take you on a journey through Queen’s music in a way you’ve never seen before. PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION, DECEMBER 5, 7 P.M.

HOLIDAY WONDERS AT THE GARDEN

GOSPEL TALK “CHRISTMAS REVUE” FEATURING ELIZABETH KING, THE JUBILEE HUMMINGBIRDS, AND VINTAGE SOULS Experience the power and spirit of Memphis gospel as The Jubilee Hummingbirds and Elizabeth King share the stage for a night of sacred soul and jubilee harmonies ﬁt for the Christmas season. THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS, DECEMBER 12, 7:30 P.M.

BALLET MEMPHIS’ THE NUTCRACKER Join Clara on a magical holiday adventure with stunning dance and live music by the Memphis Symphony in the return of Ballet Memphis’ The Nutcracker. ORPHEUM THEATRE, DECEMBER 12–14

ESPRIT DE CORPS DANCE COMPANY’S THE NUTCRACKER Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet follows Clara and the Nutcracker Prince as they journey through fantastic lands. BARTLETT PERFORMING ARTS & CONFERENCE CENTER, DECEMBER 12–14

SOULFUL HOLIDAY CLASSICS WITH KENNETH JACKSON: A HOLIDAY CONCERT AT THE ORANGE MOUND LIBRARY Enjoy the soulful music of Kenneth Jackson as he returns to usher in the 2025 holiday season in Orange Mound. ORANGE MOUND LIBRARY, DECEMBER 13, 1–3 P.M.

¡CHRISTMAS FIESTA! Presented by Cazateatro Bilingual Theater Group, Opera Memphis, and Dixon Gallery & Gardens, this Christmas Fiesta brings together Christmas traditions of Latin America and the Caribbean. DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS, DECEMBER 13, 11 A.M.–3 P.M. SECRETS IN THE GALLERIES: SLAY BELLS RING (ages 18+) You’re invited to unravel a festive mystery at the Dixon’s very ﬁrst holiday whodunit! DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS, DECEMBER 13–14, 6-8:30 P.M. GERMANTOWN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: HOLIDAY CONCERT Don’t miss this annual holiday favorite including the sing-along. GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, DECEMBER 13, 7 P.M.

ART & APERITIFS: CURATOR C. ROSE SMITH

DISCUSSES THE HOOKS BROTHERS COLLECTION Step behind the scenes with C. Rose Smith, assistant curator of photography, for a compelling exploration of the Hooks Brothers Studio collection. MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART, DECEMBER 14, 2-4 P.M.

KAFÉ KIRK: KIRK WHALUM & KANDACE SPRINGS Join Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum for an ongoing jazz series in Crosstown Theater featuring musical and spiritual collaborations with special guest artists. THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS, DECEMBER 14, 6 P.M.

DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL Discover the magic of Dr. Seuss’ classic holiday tale as it comes to life on-stage. ORPHEUM THEATRE, DECEMBER 16–21

MAGIC OF MEMPHIS EXPERIENCE Memphis’ most beloved holiday tradition. CANNON CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, DECEMBER 20, 2:30 P.M. & 7:30 P.M.

To suggest an event for future editions of Out and About, email abigail@memphismagazine.com.

Hotel Tennessee

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

BY VANCE LAUDERDALE

DEAR D.C.: The Hotel Tennessee was indeed popular, but not with the same crowds that reserved rooms at the Peabody, Claridge, King Cotton, Wm. Len, and other classic hotels erected downtown in the early 1900s. In fact, it enjoyed a rather unusual reputation — one that prompted a feature story in this magazine (“The Truth about the Hotel Tennessee,” March 1983).

Writer Andrew Yale posed this

The building, erected at Union and Third (an area called “Five Points” because Hernando Street also juts into that intersection), has a convoluted history. I’ll try to focus on the highlights (with a few lowlights), beginning with an enterprising fellow named Herman Adler.

Born in Germany in 1872, he came to America when he was only 17, to meet his sister, who had crossed the Atlantic a few years earlier. Before setting down in Memphis, Adler lived for a few years in New Orleans, where he attended Tulane University and worked for sugar factories there.

He returned to Memphis in 1908 and became the proprietor of the Falstaff Cafe, tucked away in the back room of a drugstore on Main Street. After just a few years, he opened a rooming house called the Madison Flats. A year later, he opened the Adler Apartments, and in 1917 opened the Adler Hotel, at the corner of Main and Linden.

I mean no offense here, but let’s face it: These weren’t high-class properties. They were mainly designed for business travelers who only wanted a cheap place to spend the night and didn’t need (or couldn’t afford) the luxuries of the larger hotels just blocks away. Even so, they must have been profitable, because within 10 years, Adler had enough money to open his crown jewel, the Hotel Tennessee.

complemented by fancy terra-cotta ornamentation. Inside, the lobby and ground level featured floors of gleaming marble, rows of brass chandeliers, and the latest styles of furniture.

Upstairs was a different matter. From opening day — September 2, 1927 — the Hotel Tennessee announced it was a businessmen’s hotel — quite literally, catering to men only, though years later they would relax that policy. The new hotel lacked meeting rooms, a ballroom, or even a rooftop deck. It did have a decent restaurant, the Tennessee Cafe, that offered such “businessmen’s specials” as veal cutlets, shrimp tartare, filet mignon, and fried frog legs, with nothing costing more than $1.65.

Most guests planned to stay for only one night. A Commercial Appeal story described “a tired, baggage-laden couple who had missed their bus to Texas and didn’t want to sleep in the plastic chairs of an unfamiliar bus terminal. A 56-year-old merchant mariner from Seattle making his way home to McMinnville, Tennessee. A tour-bus driver, laying over in Memphis on Saturday night between tours.”

These obviously weren’t customers (or families) who intended to spend a week and enjoy the amenities of a four-star hotel. At the Hotel Tennessee, rooms were small and plain, with cheap-looking furniture. Bathrooms (toilet and a tub) were usually down the hall.

central question: “Looking for a den of iniquity?”

Before I answer that question, I should tell you that the present owners, King and Union Acquisitions LLC, announced they were closing the old hotel in November this year. It had been operating as a DoubleTree by Hilton since 2007. Had they kept it open just two more years, the Tennessee could have celebrated its 100th birthday.

He purchased a lot in the heart of the business district, quite literally in the shadow of the newly opened Peabody Hotel. But, inside and out, this was considerably more eye-catching than his properties along Main. He hired one of this city’s top architectural firms, Hanker and Cairns, who created such Memphis landmarks as the Shrine Building, Chisca Hotel, and St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, among others.

Only eight stories tall, with 200 rooms, Hotel Tennessee was certainly a handsome building, its red-brick façade

Now, there’s nothing wrong with economical lodging. But the Hotel Tennessee seemed to develop an unsavory reputation from its early days. Just one example: A 1930 Commercial Appeal article extolled the Peabody’s new roof garden, with its “twinkling stars, cool breezes, marvelous dance floor, and lilting, syncopated dance music.” Meanwhile, a traveler looking for the Hotel Tennessee in that same newspaper would come across a small news story about an unfortunate stabbing victim, telling how the police captured his assailant who

DEAR VANCE: What happened to the Hotel Tennessee? It was one of our city’s most popular hotels for decades. — D.C., MEMPHIS

had been rooming for weeks at — yes — the Hotel Tennessee. The hotel changed owners over the years. In 1965, Phil and Ann Mueller purchased the property, hoping to crack down on trouble-makers. “They’re very religious people,” retired businessman John Forrester told the author of this magazine’s 1983 story. “They won’t let them sell beer or whiskey in the restaurant, and won’t rent space in the front for a whiskey store.” The Muellers even posted a huge lighted marquee over the entrance, displaying a different Bible verse every week.

Yale focused on how normal the place actually was: “Of the 239 rooms in the building, about 90 are occupied by permanent residents paying by the month. More than half are retired: former businessmen and schoolteachers rub elbows with ex-sailors, salesmen, and railroaders. Then there are working people: cab drivers, painters, and dishwashers. The balance is a strange miscellany of people in transition: recent college graduates seeking their first break, a few disabled veterans, even an unemployed nightclub comedian.”

Life went on in this way for years, until 1985 when dramatic change came to the Hotel Tennessee. A group called KSI Real Estate Enterprises purchased the property for $24 million and announced an affiliation with the Radisson hotel chain, which operated more than 100 upscale properties across America.

What they had in mind was more than a renovation; it was a transformation. In addition to upgrading all the old rooms (adding bathrooms was a priority), demolition crews pulled down turn-of-the-century buildings east of the hotel, making room for a modern, 12-story tower linked to the old hotel by a glass “bridge” at the sixth-floor level. Even more impressive was the six-story garden atrium at the Union Avenue entrance. Visitors who stepped into the ultra-modern courtyard were

The Hotel Tennessee lobby, with its marble and brass, was glitzy, but guest rooms were small and plain, with cheap-looking furniture.

confronted by something out of the past. When the developers demolished the 1903 Banner Laundry building, located to the south of the old hotel, they preserved every brick, beam, and cast-iron ornament — and then rebuilt the façade inside the atrium. At the very top, a terra-cotta figure of a woman’s face, wreathed in an anchor-and-chain oval, gazed down on guests. (What this image had to do with laundry, no one ever discovered.)

“Our intention was to preserve the integrity of the past as we built something new,” Mike Richmond, the new general manager, told reporters. He hoped the “sea maiden, a goddess of the past,” would be “the signature of the hotel,” used

people who come to Memphis, or get stranded at the bus station and can’t pay $40 or $50 a night.” Maybe so, but the newspaper insisted, “The Tennessee had a rough reputation. Sitting next to the bus station and across the street from two peep-show theaters, it was at one of downtown’s rawest edges.”

as a design motif throughout. The new hotel, now with 278 rooms, was a hit. The Radisson added an upscale restaurant called The Veranda, with specialties including rabbit, pan-fried quail, and barbecued venison.

A nightclub called Players featured live music, and on the ground floor of the old hotel, in the space once occupied by the Cafe Tennessean, TGI Friday’s opened a downtown location. Not everyone was happy with the change — especially the people who had called the Tennessee home. “I guess they had to sell the old hotel to get rid of all the old people,” Ruth Jackson, the night desk clerk for 14 years, told The Commercial Appeal. “But it makes me sad because we have no moderate-priced hotels for

Meanwhile, when this magazine’s writer, Andrew Yale, paid a visit, he answered the question: It was hardly a “den of iniquity.” Anyone registering for the night, he wrote, “may go back to his room and wonder when the action is going to start. But it never will, because the truth about the Hotel Tennessee is as different from the notoriety it enjoys as the rising sun is removed from the twilight. Residents laugh at the idea that their home is a hotbed of sin. They very quietly and definitely let anyone know that the Hotel Tennessee is not only safe, quiet, and clean, but upright as well.”

As we go to press in November 2025, the future of the former Hotel Tennessee remains uncertain. But in its heyday, the 98-year-old property certainly made an impression — good and bad.

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.

The Healing Art of Storytelling

Elaine Blanchard shares lessons from her life as a pastor, activist, and “gangsta grammie” in a new memoir.

BY JESSE DAVIS

“I believe that love has the power to heal us all.”

— ELAINE BLANCHARD

AMemphis-based, “sort of retired” pastor of First Congregational Church in Cooper-Young, Elaine Blanchard is also an activist, author, former nurse, playwright, and “gangsta grammie” (more on that last descriptor later).

Blanchard now teaches memoir-writing workshops with Creative Aging, an arts-focused social group for seniors. She’s also teaching a class called Sacred Ground, an 11-week series of videos and literature, with weekly meetings for discussion. Recently, she went with a group from First Congo (as many Memphians call it) to Montgomery, Alabama, to see Brian Stevenson’s Equal Justice Initiative and other important sites. Later, the group met and reflected on their experiences. Given the depth of community involvement on display, the “sort of” in “sort of retired” begins to make sense.

“My wife laughs at me when I say that I’m retired,” Blanchard says, her own voice bright with laughter and affection. “I’m just not serving a church right now.”

When she’s not teaching, protesting, or supervising field trips to civil rights sites, she writes. Blanchard, also the author of Help Me Remember: Bible Stories for Children , recently released her memoir, I Remember You: The Making of an Activist (Bohannon Hall Press).

I’LL REMEMBER YOU

Blanchard moved to Memphis to work as a nurse in 1994, but she grew up in Gainesville, Florida, in the 1950s and ’60s.

“Down the street from our house, Ms. Haige had a boarding house, and in the evenings people would gather on her porch and tell stories,” she remembers. “I, as a child, used to sit on Ms. Haige’s porch and listen to people tell stories. Then, of course, my dad was a preacher, so I heard him tell stories every Sunday from the pulpit. I just got immersed in the art of storytelling.” It was the best of two worlds, the physical and the metaphysical, and it set Blanchard on a path to her own kind of storytelling.

First, though, a traumatic event planted the seeds for Blanchard’s fruitful passion for justice. It was a time, she remembers, when children wandered at will, as long as they were home in time for supper. She was too young to understand that there were people she wasn’t supposed to speak to — or rather, people who could be hurt for the socalled “crime” of speaking to her

“There was a Black boy who spoke to me, and as a result of that, my father, my brother, and a police officer in our church went over to the little boy’s house, dragged him out of the house, beat him, yanked him across the ground, and threw him in the back of the police car. I watched that from home,” she says, somber. She remembers her family’s phone ringing that night.

“I heard my mother say, ‘Yes. Well, they took him down to the city jail. No, none of this would

have happened if Elaine weren’t so friendly.’ So, I understood what had happened as being my fault. Nobody said we’re racists, we’re white supremacists, we live in a segregated, hateful town.

“At the time, I knew that there were white and Black water fountains. When I was four there was very little I understood about racism.” As an introduction to America’s tragic and disturbing history with racial violence, it was an eye-opening, if devastating, experience.

Some months later, her father took her to the police station, where she was instructed to identify the boy who had spoken to her. It would have been easier to do what she was told, to follow the instructions of the authority figures, even if she privately felt it was wrong. It would have been easier, but she refused. After a tense stalemate, her father spoke to the police, and he and his young daughter left the station.

“He put his hands on the steering wheel, and he said, ‘Elaine, don’t you remember this. Don’t you ever think about any of this,’” Blanchard says. That time, she did as she was told, and did her best to forget. When she had a child and her child turned four years old, the memories resurfaced.

“I thought, ‘Well, surely, it didn’t. I’m making this up,’” she remembers. Hard work in therapy and conversations with loved ones told her that, no, the event that had so shaken her as a child had in fact happened.

“In the healing of that is when I started really coming to terms with what had happened to that Black boy and what I wanted to do in this world to make amends for that,” she says.

WHAT HAPPENED AT GRACELAND

In 2016, when the local chapter of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement blocked the Hernando de Soto Bridge in an hours-long peaceful demonstration, Blanchard was home with her wife watching it all on the news.

“I didn’t get up, and I didn’t go downtown, and I didn’t stand with the people there,” she says.

Not long after the protest,

Blanchard attended a gathering of Memphis clergy organized by BLM. “Floridia Jackson, a Black pastor here in town, said, ‘ e problem with you white liberals is, you stand up for us in your own pulpit when you’re feeling safe. But when it comes to standing up with us out in the street, you won’t come. You think we’re dangerous,’” Blanchard remembers. “I felt convicted by that. And I told myself, ‘ e next time BLM does anything, I’m going to be there.’”

It would not be long before Blanchard got her chance to make good on her promise to herself. e next local BLM protest took place at Graceland, when BLM got together on Elvis’ death day, the day of the vigil, to draw attention to continuing issues of racial injustice. So Blanchard went down to Graceland to join the protest.

“They had a tank set up. I walked along and saw a black SUV, and an oﬃcer in a SWAT uniform opened the back of it, and there were boxes that said ‘AMMUNITION,’” Blanchard remembers. “I couldn’t see any of my BLM friends until I got all the way past Graceland to the next street. ere I saw that the police had set up a corral, like you would put cattle in, and I saw some of my BLM friends in there.”

Blanchard was told that she had found the protest, so she joined her friends, and more people gathered, until Blanchard estimated there were about 80 BLM protestors.

“ e police had made a rope of themselves. ey had covered Elvis Presley Boulevard locking arms,” Blanchard says. “Mostly it was just a futile kind of situation. I said to Pearl Walker, ‘I’m going home. I’m hungry, and there’s nothing going to happen here.’ I went back to that corral the police had set up and hoisted myself up and threw my leg over the corral. I expected to be yelled at and followed, but the funny part is a security guard from Graceland happened to be walking by and said, ‘Can I help you, ma’am?’ He gave me a hand and helped me over it.”

She posted on Facebook about the situation, including the blatant racism on display, when a white woman could be helped over the barrier a Black person would not have been allowed to cross.

at she is so candid speaks to Blanchard’s faith in the healing power of sharing one’s story.

learned from that is that all of us are so much more than the worst moments in our life.”

The incident — and Blanchard’s open discussion of it — was the ﬁ rst domino in a series of events that included police observation of her home, a press conference in which she and Walker both spoke, and even her being included on the city hall’s black list.

“I think in this country too many of us are living out of a narrative of fear and anger, and we need to retell that story,” she says. “It’s separating us. It’s keeping us from living in a

Blanchard has seen both progress and backsliding on the long road to social justice. When asked how she maintains the strength to keep moving forward, Blanchard’s

“ e police could clearly see that a white woman who had been with the protesters was climbing over the barricade, and no one stopped me,” Blanchard told The Commercial Appeal in a 2017 story titled, “Why did this ‘gangsta grammie’ make the City Hall escort list?” by David Waters.

“ at really ﬁred my activism,” Blanchard says.

HOPE AND HEALING

Blanchard is startlingly open in the memoir about both the highs and lows of her story. Not everyone would admit to potentially embarrassing moments, like staying home during the bridge protest, or feeling “convicted” by the scolding words of fellow clergy members.

world that’s safe for our children and our grandchildren.”

From the pulpit, from her spot in the protest march, and from her authorial keyboard, Blanchard is fighting against the division she sees among her neighbors and her nation. As conflicts go, it demands determination and constantly renewed efforts. To that end, Blanchard does work in other ways as well. For seven years, she led a program called “Prison Stories” to give women in the county jail the opportunity to tell their stories.

She recruited local theater actresses, as well as a director, stage manager, and musicians, to dramatize the scenes that came from the “Prison Stories” project. e theater crew performed the scenes in the jail for the incarcerated women, and they also put on showings for the public at eatreSouth. “I’m thinking about doing that again, now that I’ve retired,” she says. “What I’ve

message is equal parts confessional and inspirational.

“I feel like change is possible because of the change that has happened in me,” she confesses. “I think of myself as a recovering racist because I grew up in a racist culture. It took time for me to learn. I’m still learning.”

Most of Blanchard’s work as a nurse was with alcohol and drug treatment, and for her, it was another chance to learn. “I have watched people come into treatment as kind of a mess, in every sense of the word,” she says, “and they begin to tell their story to other people who are alcoholics and somehow that sharing of stories heals people.”

People rarely thrive in isolation. Blanchard saw that sad fact play out in various permutations, but she also saw the infusion of strength a person gains by sharing their story with others.

The simple fact of the matter, as Blanchard sees it, is this: “We need each other.”

Elaine Blanchard discusses her new book with author/storyteller Willy Bearden.

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THE ART OF WELLNESS

THERAPISTS EXPLORE CREATIVE APPROACHES TO HELP PATIENTS PROCESS THEIR FEELINGS.

BY CHRIS MCCOY

The Japanese art of KENTSUGI holds much meaning for Ashley Neal. The licensed professional counselor recently opened her own practice in Clark Tower, Mended erapy, with seven years’ experience helping mend broken hearts and minds.

“Kentsugi” translates to “golden joinery.” When pottery or other objects fracture, practitioners of kintsugi repair and reinvent those objects, which often have deep, sentimental meaning for their owners. Artists do put the pieces back together, but they don’t try to hide the repair work. Instead, they mix gold into the adhesive, to draw attention to the mended cracks, now stronger than ever. It’s a way of acknowledging and even embracing life’s unpredictable challenges. e cracks and chips make the pottery more valuable, because they represent troubles survived, and the strength of overcoming.

“It is a little bit of overlap with something that I have done with clients,” says Neal, “which is taking a piece of pottery, breaking it, and then putting it back together.”

Neal was inspired to pursue a career in mental health by her childhood pediatrician, who had a welcoming and caring bedside manner. “ ey spent a lot of time actually getting to know me,” she recalls. I was at the doctor a lot, but she listened to what was actually going on with me. I could see the care that she had for me, so that was a big part of it. Also, I guess I have what you call a ‘therapist face,’ where people sometimes just go up to me and tell me about their whole life.”

She has seen many clients in Memphis who have had their worlds shattered. “A lot of people in this community, specifically kids, have experienced trauma in various ways. at could be community-based, that could be things within their school, or that can be within their home,” says Neal. “A

Ashley Neal

lot of mood disorders are seen through behavioral issues. Just because someone has behavioral issues doesn’t mean it’s just a behavioral problem. It could actually be depression that someone is experiencing, but you see it through more of like the anger side. For people 18 and under, you can see anger and that is a part of the depression. It’s a symptom as well, so it’s not just like a down mood.”

Neal feels called to help people with their mental health. But she’s also inspired by fashion, and she sees a strong connection between the two pursuits.. “I know they sound like very separate things, but in a way, they can come together, like this idea of mending as a metaphor for ourselves. I’ve been ripped and torn and cut up. What happens when a piece of clothing has been ripped and torn and cut up? We can just not use it anymore. Or we can mend it and use that mended piece and be able to still wear it and see it in all of its beauty.”

UNWRAP THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS IN RIDGELAND

This article is brought to you by Foster Relations

The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration, and there is no better place to experience it all than in Ridgeland, Mississippi. This year, Ridgeland invites you to embrace the magic of the season with “Wrap It in Ridgeland,” a festive campaign running from November 1 through December 31 that combines shopping, dining, staying, and celebrating into one holiday adventure. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway, traveling with family, or planning a festive escape with friends, Wrap it in Ridgeland is here to make your holidays brighter and easier.

With hotel packages designed to free up more of your holiday budget, you can focus on the experiences that matter most: finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list, savoring delicious meals, and enjoying the cheerful events that fill the season with joy. Imagine checking into a cozy hotel, knowing you’ve unlocked special savings, then heading out to stroll the Ridgeland Retail Trail, where you’ll discover everything from big-name brands and stylish boutiques to local artisan shops offering handmade treasures. Ridgeland has built a reputation as one of Mississippi’s premier shopping destinations, making it the perfect place to wrap up all your holiday errands while also indulging in the fun of discovering something new. Wrap It in Ridgeland ensures that shopping becomes part of the experience, with opportunities to linger, browse, and savor the festive atmosphere that fills the city during the holidays.

The season also brings a calendar of events that capture the warmth and magic of community. Visitors can explore local holiday markets like the Handworks Holiday Market, an annual tradition showcasing handcrafted gifts and art from regional makers, or step into the Renaissance at Colony Park for their

Home for the Holidays Open House, where elegant décor and seasonal inspiration fill every corner. The town’s Christmas Open House and beloved Tree Lighting and Parade transform Ridgeland into a sparkling wonderland where families gather, music fills the air, and traditions come alive in a way that makes everyone feel like part of the celebration. These moments, woven into the shopping and dining experience, create a rhythm of joy that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Between shopping and holiday activities, visitors can take time to experience Ridgeland’s culinary scene, where restaurants and cafés offer the perfect spaces to unwind, warm up, and enjoy the flavors of the season. From cozy spots serving comforting soups and festive cocktails to upscale dining experiences perfect for celebrating a special occasion, the food and hospitality in Ridgeland add another layer of delight to every holiday itinerary.

What makes Wrap It in Ridgeland truly special is the way it combines convenience, value, and festive spirit into one destination. With hotels, restaurants, shops, and holiday events clustered close together, it is

easy to park once and spend the entire day or weekend exploring, knowing that everything you need is within reach. The discounts offered through participating hotels create real value for travelers who want to make the most of their holiday getaway. At the same time, Ridgeland’s mix of nationally recognized retailers and independent local boutiques ensures that every visitor will find both the familiar and the unexpected, making giftbuying a joy rather than a challenge.

More than anything, Wrap It in Ridgeland invites visitors to embrace the spirit of the season not just by checking off a list, but by creating memories along the way—memories of strolling through twinkling lights, discovering thoughtful gifts, sipping something warm with loved ones, or watching children’s eyes light up at a parade or tree lighting. This is what makes Ridgeland feel like a holiday home-away-from-home: it is a place that celebrates togetherness, community, and joy in both big and small ways. If you are ready to make this holiday season one to remember, plan your visit between November 1 and December 31, book your stay at one of the many participating hotels, stop by the Visitors Center to claim your tote, and let the adventure unfold as you shop, dine, and celebrate your way through a city that knows how to wrap the season in warmth and cheer.

Head to exploreridgeland.com/wrapit to learn more, explore hotel options, and secure your spot in the festivities. This year, don’t just shop for the holidays; wrap your entire holiday experience in the joy, flavor, and sparkle of Ridgeland, Mississippi.

”One of the groups that they enjoy most is art, because art helps them when they’re having a situation or some kind of crisis. They can put their feelings and emotions in the paintings.”

— Marta Hernandez

Neal has helped clients mend old clothes as a meditative practice for years. Next spring, as part of her new practice, she will expand mending into group therapy. “It’s a way of using mindfulness and being present in the moment with the piece that we’re mending,” she says, “and being able to process some things that we feel like need to be mended within our own lives.”

e fashionable therapy is one form of a larger principal — using art and creativity as both an outlet and a learning tool to improve mental health. “I have used creative tools throughout my entire time as a therapist,” she says. “Working with kids, you kind of have to. I’ve seen it be very helpful. I’ve worked with youth who struggle with just expressing themselves in any way. Maybe they want to be in therapy, but they really don’t know how to talk about anything. So we may start with just some artistic interventions, like drawing our feelings.”

At Alliance Healthcare Services’ Turning Point Peer Support Center on Summer Avenue, recovery specialist Marta Hernandez holds group meetings regularly that use creative pursuits for mental health beneﬁts. “We do arts and crafts,” says Hernandez. “We do educational groups like the Wellness Recovery Action Plan, for people to learn how to notice when they are having a crisis, and also include their family members and doctors if they want to. We also have exercise and some support groups for

depression, anxiety, etcetera. But one of the groups that they enjoy most is art, because art helps them when they’re having a situation or some kind of crisis. ey can put their feelings and emotions in the paintings.”

Hernandez has seen many clients beneﬁt from channeling their feelings into creative pursuits. “I believe that when they create something on their own, it gives them encouragement,” she says. “So if you’re feeling depressed, instead of focusing on your thoughts and what you’re feeling, you put that energy into the piece of art. Just seeing the colors, just touching the clay helps them. ere is something going on in the mind when we do that.”

“Art can be used as an intervention in the therapeutic setting, not only as a coping skill, but also as a way to communicate and to help a client process,” says Sandra L. Brazzell, addiction services program coordinator for Alliance Healthcare Services. “For those who struggle with using language to explore their challenges and concerns, art can feel safer than trying to ﬁnd the words that often elude them. Art is neither right nor wrong — it just is. It can provide a safe space to allow an individual to explore self-reﬂection and self-acceptance. It can promote self-esteem and emotional regulation, as it allows one to process trauma, grief, and complex emotions using the creative side of the brain.”

Brazzell says creative activities can serve as an outlet for anxiety, stress, depression, trauma responses and/or managing triggers

to use drugs or alcohol. “ ere are several cognitive and brain health beneﬁts of art, including improved neural plasticity, as well as improved focus, attention span, and memory. When done in a group therapy setting, art and creative activities can promote social and communication skills, which can positively impact interpersonal skills in general.”

Encouraging creativity goes hand in hand with more traditional therapies. “I use CBT, which is cognitive behavioral health therapy, and ACT, which is acceptance commitment therapy,” says Neal. “I’m helping people identify thoughts that are going on in their lives that are impacting their feelings and helping them express it in an artistic way, if they struggle with talking about it. So instead of just identifying ‘Oh, this is a cognitive distortion. is is an unhelpful thought that I have,’ we will act out some things in an artistic way.”

Hernandez has seen the results with her own clients. “Right now, we have a pottery class on Saturdays. One of the clients had a situation where she didn’t like the clay that she made. It was all crooked. I was like, ‘You have to break it down and build it again.’ She was mad at the beginning, but then she started building again. And when she saw the final piece, she was like, ‘Wow, I’m glad I did it again, because now I like what I did.’ And so with that came a learning experience: Sometimes in life, you have to build again.”

Surprise someone with a year of Art Club at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, with exclusive access, members only events and a community that lives for art. Every membership helps twenty thousand Memphis students discover the joy of art at their museum.

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THE Creative THE Memphian

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Christmas in Collierville Saturdays

On the rst four Saturdays, between anksgiving and Christmas, families can visit Santa in the Gazebo (10am-2pm) and enjoy special music performances designed to get you in the holiday spirit. Get all the details at colliervilletn.gov/christmas

November 29

December 6

December 13

December 20

Contemporary Club Home Tour

December 13

THOMAS

THE LEGENDARY SOUL SINGER’S LIFELONG SEARCH FOR KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM — FROM THE LIBRARY STACKS TO STAX RECORDS — HAS ELEVATED HER ARTISTRY.

BY ALEX GREENE

I dreamt a dream! What can it mean?

And that I was a maiden Queen Guarded by an Angel mild

WILLIAM BLAKE, SONGS OF EXPERIENCE

ot long into a conversation with Carla Thomas, the Queen of Memphis Soul, you realize that the musical titan is about a great deal more than music. Which is not to say that, at age 82, her musical life has fallen dormant — far from it. She has recently racked up an array of honors and accomplishments, both onstage and in the studio, with only some of them related to her hit-making at Stax Records (more about that later).

When she shares about her life and outlook, she talks about those memories and experiences in the same breath, all part of her quest to learn, to interact, to see and hear the world in all its wonder. at’s what made her, of all the fabled Stax Records artists, the one with the greatest penchant to move around, to explore. Even the initial rise of the label she and her father helped put on the map wasn’t enough to keep her pinned down in Memphis.

n the summer of 1960, things were popping at Satellite Records, not yet called Stax. e label had its first regional hit with “’Cause I Love You,” recorded on a lark at the fledgling studio by Carla and her father, Rufus omas, a celebrated DJ, singer, and talent impresario who was still working at a textile plant. By the fall of that year, she had recorded her own song, “Gee Whiz (Take a Look at His Eyes),” which was slowly making waves, on its way to becoming a top-ten pop hit. So, what did Carla omas, just turning 18 that December, decide to do? Head off to college to study Renaissance literature, of course.

“I didn’t have this dire ambition,” she says today. “I just liked being around the music. It’s not that I didn’t care that I had a hit record. But I was getting ready to go to TSU [Tennessee State University]. Now, I really didn’t understand how the process worked, how to apply and get a scholarship — I was too busy singing that summer! But all my friends were saying, ‘We’ve got to be up there in Nashville. You need to come up there with us!’ So I said, ‘Oh, okay.’”

With that seemingly casual choice, she launched what would be a recurring fascination for her from then on: to expand her horizons, to discover.

It’s but one of the charming qualities that have made her a universally beloved ﬁgure in her hometown: the youthfulness of the seeker, positively unafraid to be astounded. omas, with a gleam in her eye, is quick to laugh but just as often poised to inquire, making her an insightful commentator on her own history and echoing

the omas family’s reverence for good teachers.

Time and time again, speaking with her, the names of former teachers come up: Mrs. McGee, her thirdgrade teacher; Blair T. Hunt Jr., her principal at Booker T. Washington [BTW] High School. “Blair T. Hunt was very sophisticated,” says omas. “Everybody who went to Booker T. Washington back in those days talked like they were from England.” e school was a cultural center for the omas family’s community. “We had the soul people, the blues people, and the intelligentsia,” she says of BTW, contrasting it with the more jazz-oriented Manassas High School of that era. “I was more musical than intelligentsia, but I picked up on it all.”

Radio and education were inextricably bound in Thomas’ experience. Speaking to me in 2017, Thomas recalled how much she’d learned simply listening to WDIA. “ ere was a show that came on with A.C. “Moohah” Williams, who also oversaw the Teen Town Singers, where I started when I was a kid. rough that show I learned a lot of Negro spirituals, jazz tunes, pop tunes. I think it really helped strengthen my voice and my knowledge.”

Williams also encouraged her to think big. “Moohah had been to TSU,” says omas, “and he said, ‘You need to go to college.’ He just said that one day, and I thought, ‘Well, yeah.’” Moohah was right: Higher education clearly suited omas. After TSU, she earned a master’s degree, also in Renaissance literature, from Howard University. “I loved English. I loved English literature, Renaissance literature. Anything Shakespeare!”

Thomas at Memphis Listening Lab's release event for Sweet Sweetheart, her once-shelved 1970 album.

O heaven, O earth, bear witness to this sound, And crown what I profess with kind event If I speak true!

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE THE TEMPEST

homas’ love of language long preceded her college ambitions, and it was to fuel the musical career that paid all her tuition over the years, and then some. Perhaps it was that sophisticated way of speaking at Blair T. Hunt Jr.’s high school, combined with those thought-provoking songs on the radio, but for whatever reason, Thomas’ late high-school years were a time of prolific creativity. “I wrote a lot of songs in ’58,” she says of the year she was 15. “Just a lot of writing. I wrote short stories. I wrote comments. I was even going to write a movie [screenplay] one time, but by that time I was in 12th grade, and I was too worried about trying to graduate.”

e creativity, she says, ﬂowed more from her love of language than music per se. “I was not really carried away over the prospect of being an artist,” she says, but she did play some piano and had been singing in WDIA’s Teen Town Singers for some years by then. One day in 1958, on a lark, she struck gold. “I was playing piano, and the melody came ﬁrst. I wrote ‘Gee Whiz’ in about half an hour. When I write a song, that’s how it usually happens.”

Her father, with his ﬁnely tuned ear, heard her playing and singing it in the family home. “He came in there: ‘I’m gonna put this on tape.’ And he did, on one of those reel-to-reel machines,” says omas. Rufus began plugging her demo right away. When the young Curtis Mayﬁeld, still a teenager himself but already a celebrated member of the Impres-

sions, came to Memphis, Rufus saw an opportunity. “He said, ‘Curtis, I want you to take this back to Chicago and see what you think about it.’ Curtis goes and plays it, and calls Daddy,” omas says. “Now all this is happening behind my back. I was kind of mad at Daddy, in a way, but Curtis said, ‘She’s too young!’”

Mayfield’s focus on omas’ youth was ironic, in part because he was only about six months older, but also because youth itself was becoming a hot commodity with the rise of rock-and-roll. Producers across the country, often square but curious about this new, profitable demographic, were seeking gifted young musical artists who were in touch with their peers. A new youth movement was brewing, and omas both typified it and found it thrilling. Her mother, Lorene, saw her daughter’s future.

“One time, I had just come from school, and American Bandstand was new. Jackie Wilson came on, and my mother said, ‘Who is that?’ I thought, ‘Oh my God. She likes Jackie Wilson!’ He was singing his little ‘Reet Petite,’ and she said, ‘Oh, I like that!’ Because it’s kind of cutesy, you know? So I said, ‘Why don’t you come out here and watch him? He can dance too.’ It was like a commercial! She said, ‘Oh, he has a beautiful voice.’ She was so intelligent about it, and I’m just going, ‘Oh, wow!’ She says, ‘Oh, that’s so nice. Look at all the little teenagers dancing.’ Now she’s watching the whole thing. And just as she’s getting ready to go back to whatever she was doing, ironing or something, she looked at me and asked, ‘What’d you say the name of this was?’ I said, ‘ is is American Bandstand, and his name is Dick Clark.’ And she said, ‘You’re gonna be on there.’”

To young Carla, the comment came from the clear blue sky. ough she sang with the Teen Town Singers, she had no aspirations to be a recording artist or pop star. But today, in retrospect, she remembers her mother’s comment with wonder. “ at’s that circle of time, see?” says omas. “It was all in there, in my mother’s prophecy.”

ut to 1960, when her father learned of a new venture on McLemore Avenue and decided to check it out in person. “He said, ‘You want to go? ey’re opening up a new theater; it’s going to be a studio. You want to see it?’ I went with him, and I’m just sitting as usual, listening to [Stax co-founder] Jim Stewart and my dad. When we were getting ready to leave, Jim said, ‘Hey, Rufus, you thought about recording again?’”

By then, of course, Rufus had recorded a few singles, albeit sporadically, including one of Sun Records’ ﬁrst successes, “Bear Cat,” an answer song to Big Mama ornton’s “Hound Dog.” But that had been way back in 1953. Still, Rufus was plugged into the music scene.

“Dad said, ‘Oh, I’ve got a song in my glove compartment!’” omas says. “He went and got a tape of a song, ‘Deep Down Inside,’ kind of like ‘Gee Whiz,’ that he made, a duet. We were having fun, and I sang with him on it. Jim said, ‘Let’s cut that! Now, I don’t know any Black musicians right now.’ Well, Dad knew all of them. So, we go sing ‘Deep Down Inside.’ Jim was standing there and said, ‘You know, we have to have a B side. We can’t just put out a one-sided record.’ He was getting excited. Dad stood right there and wrote ‘’Cause I Love You’ by the piano.”

e new song needed something more than the band gathered for the session, and that’s where Carla saved the day, and altered the course of history.

Booker T. Jones, who went on to co-found Booker T. & the MGs, recalls it vividly today. “Carla was my ﬁrst connection to Stax Records,” he remembers. “I knew Carla before Stax. We were both members in our churches [Mount Olive Cathedral and St. John Baptist], and I can remember going to her church and getting ice cream afterwards with her. Her church was close to mine, and I can remember walking over there and meeting her there when I was in eighth or ninth grade.” Of course, they both attended BTW as well,

and that’s where Jones was on the day that Rufus and Carla needed to beef up their band.

“I had always wanted to get in to try to play at Satellite, as we called it then,” says Jones, “but I didn’t have an opportunity until she was recording there with her dad, Rufus, and they sent David Porter over to Booker Washington to get me to play baritone sax for that song ‘’Cause I Love You.’” Porter even wrote a fake hall pass to get Jones out of his second-period class, after which they grabbed a horn from the band room and quickly returned to the studio.

In your verse all Cupid’s armory, His flames, his shafts, his quiver, and his bow, His very eyes are yours to overthrow.

BEN JONSON

ause I Love You” was so good, it became the A side of the new single — and, as Satellite had just worked out a distribution deal with Atlantic Records, it was released on the Atlantic subsidiary Atco, making for a minor hit and putting Satellite on the map. e label, having previously dabbled in various types of music in search of an identity, was now ﬁrmly committed to R&B and soul. It had all been a bit of a lark for Carla omas, but now she found that spinning piece of plastic captivating. “It was a real record!” she says. “ is is really weird,” she recalls thinking, “I can play my own record!” at was all well and good, but A.C. Williams’ advice still reverberated: “You need to go to college.” So, even as “’Cause I Love You” was making waves on the R&B charts, omas was TSU-bound. “But before I went,” omas says, “Jim asked Dad, ‘You think she might want to cut something by herself?’” Inevitably, the demo of “Gee Whiz” came up.

Thomas performing at the 2024 RiverBeat Music Festival with the Hi Rhythm Section and Take Me to the River All-Stars.

“ en he said, ‘Okay, we’ll do this before you go to college.’ So I’m sitting there, scared to death now, thinking, ‘College was bad enough. Now I gotta sing something by myself!’”

Fear aside, she gave it her all, pouring emotion into the sparse, simple lyrics that reveled in teen vernacular. “And little by little, they added stuﬀ,” says omas, including violins played by the head of the Memphis Symphony at the time, Noel Gilbert, and his kids.

“Gee Whiz (Look at His Eyes),” ultimately released on Atlantic, caught on like slow wildﬁre, reaching #5 in the R&B charts and #10 in the pop charts in 1961. Sure enough, as her mother had foreseen, omas made it to American Bandstand and beyond, playing the Apollo Theater, meeting heroes and celebrities.

Yet even then, composing it seemed like ancient history to the girl who had suddenly become Satellite’s and Atco’s top star. Even as omas matriculated at TSU (her tuition ﬁnanced by her songwriting royalties), Atlantic wanted more songs, more singles, and an album. “I don’t have anything!” omas recalls. “I’ve forgotten all these songs that were in my notebook somewhere, and I’m so sorry I lost them, because when ‘Gee Whiz’ became a top-10 record, the others probably would have been hits. But I was two years older. I didn’t write the same way. e next record I wrote was much more adult, ‘A Love of My Own.’” e entire Gee Whiz album that Atlantic eventually released is classic contemporary pop of its day, having been partly recorded in Nashville with session players and the Anita Kerr Singers. Soon enough, though, omas would become ensconced in the production process and the raw Memphis Sound that evolved in the studio on McLemore Avenue, as Satellite was renamed Stax, and the label became a hit-making force. ough nothing was quite the smash hit that “Gee Whiz” had been, singles like “B-A-B-Y” or “Tramp” (with Otis Redding) cemented her place as one of the label’s most reliably popular artists. Until Mavis Staples and her family joined the Stax roster in 1969, omas was the only female performer on Stax to have albums released under her own name.

Yet even after she had become a star of ’60s soul, other worlds called to her. After TSU, she pursued a master’s degree at Howard University in Washington, D.C., which was her gateway to New York.

“A lot of things came about through going to Howard,” says omas. “I was in D.C., so I went to New York all the time. I went to see Hair. I saw all the Broadway shows. At Stax, they were keeping up with what I was doing, and I ended up cutting ‘Where Do I Go?’” at song from Hair, so uncharacteristic of the Stax sound, still charted in the R&B Top 40.

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below: A photo from the 1966 album, Carla.

Meanwhile, she continued to explore, to discover. “I studied acting in New York, at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. I studied under Strasberg.” at in turn led her to Los Angeles, where she studied with Harry Mastrogeorge. She had a shining moment in 1972’s Wattstax concert in L.A., but as omas tested her independence, she was not connecting with the Stax aesthetic in the same way. She remains defiantly proud of a 1970 album she cut during her L.A. years, Sweet Sweetheart, though at the time Stax declined to release it. (Craft Recordings ﬁnally issued the LP only this year.) at album remains a symbol of her determination to follow her own star.

She was forging her own path, distinct from others in the Stax orbit. “I’m living in L.A. now!” she says of that period. “I was listening to Carole King, James Taylor, the Bee Gees. I covered everything! I just cut what I liked. I was just having fun!”

Ultimately, the Stax empire crumbled for a time, before its revival as a museum, school, and foundation years later. But omas kept having fun. at didn’t include as much performing, but she appeared on national television in the ’80s, and toured intermittently, even as her younger sister Vaneese found success as an R&B singer in her own right. Carla eventually returned to Memphis and has lived here for decades, throwing herself into education.

Most sure, the

goddess

On whom these airs attend! Vouchsafe my prayer … that you will some good instruction give.

taught with the Memphis Literacy Council for years, when I ﬁrst came back [to Memphis],” omas recalls. “ at program was called Each One, Teach One. en I founded the Artists in the Schools Residencies with Babs Feibelman — that’s my girl!”

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE THE TEMPEST

Even today, she often visits the students at Delta State University and the Stax Music Academy (SMA), and has performed with the latter on international stages, her voice as strong and melodious as ever. Well into the twenty-ﬁrst century, music is still a major part of this Renaissance woman’s life. The 2003 documentary Only the Strong Survive , which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, featured omas and other Stax artists. In 2021, omas sang on Valerie June’s single, “Call Me a Fool,” which received a Grammy nomination for Best American Roots Song. And of course, the Stax legacy has only grown. e box set Written In Their Soul: The Stax Songwriter Demos won a Grammy in 2023. In 2024, the label’s history was championed in the HBO documentary series Stax: Soulsville U.S.A. And these days, who hasn’t melted a little to the sweet strains of “Gee Whiz, It’s Christmas,” omas’ 1963 sleeper single whose popularity has only snowballed over the decades? Onstage, few who were there will ever forget her cameo at a Booker T. Jones concert at Crosstown Theater in 2019, where she sang “B-A-B-Y” with Jones and the SMA band, or her show-stopping performance at the 2024 RiverBeat Music Festival, when she stepped out before the Hi Rhythm Section with a crutch, due to a minor injury, and still delivered her hits with aplomb. rough it all, she’s maintained that same unquenchable sense of fun and playfulness in all she does, with no sign of slowing down. She has a gleam in her eye as she reﬂects on where her life has taken her. “Ain’t no harm in being a legend,” she says, “especially a living one.”

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Sowing Seeds of Community Change

A former chef is on a mission — teaching people to cook.

BY MICHAEL DONAHUE

Chef Ben Vaughn wants everyone to learn how to cook. As a professional chef with 30 years’ experience, he ﬁgured teaching people that skill was something he could achieve.

“If I knew how to do HVAC, I think I would do the same project, but teach HVAC,” Vaughn says. “It’s just me doing one thing that I do well, and being open to do that for our community.”

Vaughn is perhaps best-known to Memphians for having helmed the kitchens of restaurants Grace, Au Fond Farmtable, and River Oaks; he also authored the best-selling book, Southern Routes: Secret Recipes from the Best Down-Home Restaurants in the South, and was the host and co-producer of the digital series, The Breakfast Show.

Now, he has a new title: founder of the Sow Project, which he considers “the center of culinary cultivation.”

Why “Sow”? “We’re sowing a seed,” he explains. “We’re changing a community by sowing a seed.”

Vaughn and a team of chefs are teaching six-month culinary programs to students ranging from seniors at a charter high school to a “second-career mother of nine.” e classes are held in the Girls Inc. of Memphis building at 1179 Dellwood Avenue.

BEN VA UGHN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38

“ is is all free,” he says. “Every drop of it. ere’s not a dollar that you have to pay.”

Vaughn remembers when the idea hit. “My wife and I — with these large, oversized PostIt notes — came up with this idea and decided to be a ‘catalyst for change,’” Vaughn says. “And with my experience, start giving.”

Vaughn thought, “I can teach. I can help. I can mentor, I can be a conduit for employment. I can do all of these things.And I really believe in my heart that it’s incredibly timely, because if you watch culinary schools all over the country, they’re closing, left and right.”

He recognized a massive need for education and an equally massive need for employment for people in the restaurant industry. “Our restaurants in Memphis suﬀer through lack of quality employees,” he says, so Sow is “an incubator, so to speak, for the local restaurants. We employ and educate.”

When he was training to be a chef, “they kind of cut out the piece of culinary school that’s terribly fun. All of it was new to me at the time, but it was French terminology that I’ve never used. e traditions of a French kitchen that aren’t typically used in the practical kitchens in Memphis, Tennessee.”

Instead, he says, the Sow curriculum “strips away all the pretense and just gets to the heart of day-to-day activities.”

The project began about two years ago. Vaughn’s ﬁ rst student was the daughter of someone who worked with his wife. Vaughn wanted to see what “this nonproﬁt, no-expenses culinary program where you’re guaranteed employment” looks like. “I literally started teaching ‘class’ in my home kitchen. Meeting with her three days a week and going through the very basics.”

He wanted to make sure he was “on track with a traditional curriculum for a culinary program, because I don’t savvy myself a teacher by any stretch of the imagination. I don’t feel like I’m a culinary instructor. I think I’m a good cook, but I’m a better mentor. And I have gone through enough garbage that I’ve kind of paid the price of admission for everyone else. I’m a good big brother. I’m a good friend.”

Vaughn began using The Food Lab: Better Home Cooking Through Science , by J. Kenji

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López-Alt, which he describes as “a wonderful culinary book.” he says. “I went back through my memory bank of like, ‘Where did I start in culinary school?’ And I remembered knife skills, temperatures, food safety, and sanitation.”

When he added a second student, he moved from his home-kitchen “school” to a local church. “They gave me the kitchen for free. And a key.”

That’s when he really got to work. “We started baking,” he says. “We were doing pastry and learning how to make omelets. I could see the lights lighting up, but more importantly, there was a connection happening. And that connection was real.”

Vaughn, a recovering alcoholic, says he and the students were talking about more than food. “We were talking about life. I was sharing about my addiction. And I saw similarities in their lives. It created this bond. And then me, through prayer, and my wife, through prayer, we saw this was something terribly special.”

His tiny culinary school took off. “We went from one student to seven, then 11, and then 20. I didn’t totally understand what was happening with the program, because people were coming because they needed employment so badly.”

His students were finding restaurant jobs, Vaughn says. “We were getting people jobs over and over and over, but then they stopped coming to class. It wasn’t that they didn’t enjoy class, but we attract a certain type of individual — someone who really needs help will go to a free culinary program that is flexible and loving and works around your schedule more than a traditional culinary school out of town.

The class sizes kept getting larger,” he recalls, “and we were using a couple of kitchens here and there in other places, such as a few churches.”

He then began teaching out of the kitchen at Church Health in Crosstown Concourse. “We started doing classes there and I started to see more people show up,” he says. “Alcoholics, addicts, people experiencing homelessness, people that didn’t finish high school, who were being in some way or another saved after horrible experiences through foster care. And I felt like, wow — we’re really on to something special here.”

Mid-South HeartBall

Vaughn still fretted he had “a bit of imposter syndrome. I was really like, ‘I’m not a teacher, I know how to sear a steak and how to make a beautiful ‘you fill in the blank.’ But by no means am I a teacher.”

That’s when Brad Campbell came on board. He told me, “I would love to come over and volunteer. And I’m a culinary instructor.”

They begin with the very basics, Vaughn says. “First is safety and sanitation. Don’t spread germs. Wash your hands and use bleach.”

They continue with knife skills. Each student gets his own knife kit. They go on to learn everything from how to grow their own vegetables to how to write a menu and “food math,” which includes weights and measurements.

Sow also holds fundraising dinners, where students collaborate with the chefs and get paid for their hourly work. In more than a year, Sow has provided employment for 144 people, including Vaughn’s first student. And where is she now? She relocated to Atlanta to work in a recommended Michelin star kitchen as a baker.

In addition to restaurants, Sow students have found jobs at grocery stores, catering companies, bakeries, and casinos, Vaughn says. “Honestly, on a daily basis, I’m almost moved to tears by the lives that we’re changing. And it’s not necessarily food. It is truly about giving someone an opportunity to be more than they thought they could ever be.”

Future Sow Projects include opening a restaurant, Vaughn says. “We signed a lease at 409 South Main for a student-led restaurant and culinary school. The menu will be 100-percent based on practical curriculum.”

They don’t have an opening date, but the school will be an additional location. The current school at Dellwood will remain open. Vaughn’s own life has changed since he began Sow. “I am a chef, an Uber driver,” he says. “I am on call in the middle of the night. I will help you buy a cell phone. I am a mentor when you’re out of hope. And I’m a hug-giver when you feel the joy and you want to share it.”

He sums up his project in this way: “You know, that’s really what this is about. It’s about just loving our neighbors.”

For information on how to join or support a Sow program, go to sowproject.org

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2025 TOP DENTISTS

This list is excerpted from the 2025 topDentists™ list, a database which includes listings for nearly 120 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 atusatopdentists.com. For more information call 706-3640853; 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 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.

DISCLAIMER: This list is excerpted from the 2025 topDentists™ list, which includes listings for almost 120 dentists and specialists in the Memphis Metropolitan area. For more information call 706-364-0853 or email help@ usatopdentists.com or visit 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 2009-2025 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 843 Mt. Moriah Road Memphis, TN 38117 901-589-5444

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

MICHAEL A. JAMES

Assured Endodontics 2026 Exeter Road, Suite 2 Germantown, TN 38138 901-244-3116 www.assuredendo.com

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

Memphis Endodontics 5733 Airline Road, Suite 102 Arlington, TN 38002 901-589-5444

www.memphisrootcanal.com

BRANDON SCOTT

Memphis Endodontics 242 Poplar View Parkway, Suite B Collierville, TN 38017 901-589-5444

www.memphisrootcanal.com

L. KEVIN WELLS

Memphis Endodontics 843 Mt. Moriah Road Memphis, TN 38120 901-589-5444

www.memphisrootcanal.com

GENERAL DENTISTRY

JENNIFER ADAIR

Adair Dental Medicine 6264 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2 Memphis, TN 38119 901-767-2152

www.adairdentalmedicine.com

JEREMY L. ADAMS

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

JOSEPH B. ADKINS 6800 Poplar Avenue, Suite 220 Memphis, TN 38138 901-685-2010

www.jadkinsdds.com

MARIO E. ALFONSO

7085 Swinnea Road, Suite A Southaven, MS 38671 662-349-3038

www.marioalfonsodds.com

TY H. BARKLEY

2008 Exeter Road

Germantown, TN 38138 901-755-4132

www.tybarkleydds.com

BLAKE T. BILLUPS

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

M. WADE CLAYTON

Bellano Dental Health 2002 Exeter Road

Germantown, TN 38138 901-509-2823

www.bellanodental.com

JOHN CROWN

Higginbotham Family Dental

113 Harbor Town Square, Suite 203 Memphis, TN 38103 901-453-6081

www.higginbothamfamilydental.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

ADAM FITZHUGH

Higginbotham Family Dental

6630 Summer Knoll Cove, Suite 103 Bartlett, TN 38134 901-377-5060

www.higginbothamfamilydental.com

CLAYTON C. FLORIANI

Pediatric Dental Group & Orthodontics

1365 South Germantown Road

Germantown, TN 38138 901-363-8191 www.pdgosmiles.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 38177 901-245-0792

www.familydentalmemphis.com

CLIFTON HIGGINS

820 East Matthews Avenue, Suite B Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-931-3377

www.cliftonchigginsdds.com

JOHN G. KAKALES

730 Goodman Road East, Suite A Southaven, MS 38671 662-349-2351

DAVID T. KIZER

Kizer Dental Associates

7685 Wolf River Circle, Suite 102 Germantown, TN 38138 901-767-4882

www.kizerdentalassociates.com

TIMOTHY W. KUTAS Kutas Dentistry

519 North Highland Street Memphis, TN 38122 901-327-5604

www.dentistryofmemphis.com

2025 TOP DENTISTS

MARK C. MACGAW

Modern Dentistry of Memphis

6750 Poplar Avenue, Suite 700 Germantown, TN 38138 901-761-3726

www.moderndentistrymemphis.com

ANDREW D. MEFFORD

Bellano Dental Health

2705 Appling Road, Suite 101 Memphis, TN 38133 901-388-9110

www.bellanodental.com

CLAY G. MIDYETT

123 Crescent Drive Collierville, TN 38017 901-853-3357

www.schillingfarmsdental.com

ELIZABETH G. MITCHELL The 901 Dentist

795 Ridge Lake Boulevard, Suite 106 Memphis, TN 38120 901-756-1151

www.the901dentist.com

MILES C. MOORE

Memphis Center for Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

725 West Brookhaven Circle Memphis, TN 38117 901-761-2210

www.beautifulsmiles.org

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 & Patel 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

HUGH H. RATHER III

113 South Alderson Street P.O. Box 70 Holly Springs, MS 38635 662-252-2313

J. EDWARD RATHER, JR.

Silo Square Dental

6234 Silo Square Lane South Southaven, MS 38672 662-349-0089

www.silosquaredental.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

M. TAYLOR REED

Reed Family Dentistry

8020 U.S. Highway 51 North Millington, TN 38053 901-872-3391

www.reedfamilydentistry.com

MEHDI SADEGHI

Smile Center Memphis 2018 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

GEORGE W. SORRELLS III

623 North Missouri Street P.O. Box 175 West Memphis, AR 72301 870-732-5100

JOSEPH S. SPADES

Northeast Arkansas Dentistry 910 Enterprise Drive Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-931-6323

www.northeastarkansasdentistry.com

JOHN D. THOMAS, JR.

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

www.bestcordovadentist.com

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

NEIL B. WESTON

Weston Family and Cosmetic Dentistry 7500 Enterprise Avenue Germantown, TN 38138 901-754-3562 www.neilwestondds.com

STEVEN WHITE

Higginbotham Family Dental 2200 West Kings Highway Paragould, AR 72450 870-333-1352

www.higginbothamfamilydental.com

JOHN R. WHITTEMORE

Germantown Dental Group 2165 West Street

Germantown, TN 38138 901-754-0540

www.memphissmiledesigns.com

CHARLYN A. WILSON

Wilson & Patel 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

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

BRYAN C. DARLING

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

www.theoralandimplantsurgerycenter.com

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

MATTHEW MCDONOUGH Northeast Arkansas Center for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 2609 Browns Lane Jonesboro, AR 72401 870-931-3000

www.neaoralsurgery.com

BRYANT A. SALMON

Salmon Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 5565 Murray Avenue, Suite 102 Memphis, TN 38119 901-767-0088

www.salmonoms.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

Whatisaperiodontist?

Aperiodontistisadentistwhotreatsthestructures surroundingandsupportingtheteeth,including thegumsandjawbone.Thisspecialtyfocuseson theprevention,diagnosis,andtreatmentof periodontaldisease,aswellastheplacementof dentalimplants.Theirworkextendsto regenerationproceduresforgumandbonetissue andmaintenanceoftheoverallhealth,function, andestheticsof yourmouth.

Howareperiodontiststrained?

Likegeneraldentists,periodontistsmustcompletea bachelor’sdegreeandattendadentalschooltoobtain aDoctorofDentalSurgery(DDS)degree.Dentistswho wanttospecializeinperiodonticsmustobtainthree additionalyearsofeducationinperiodontologyand dentalimplantsurgery.Licensureisobtainedthrough writtenandpracticalexams,withcontinuingeducation requiredforongoingprofessionaldevelopment.

WhatisaBoard-CertifiedPeriodontistand DentalImplantSurgeon?

Aboard-certifiedperiodontistandadentalimplantsurgeon isaspecialistwhohasachievedthehighestprofessional recognitionthroughtheAmericanBoardofPeriodontology (ABP).Boardcertificationgoesbeyondstandardlicensure, involvingacomprehensiveprocessthatincludesrigorous writtenandoralexaminations.Oncecertificationisgranted, itmustbemaintainedthroughcontinuouslearning,selfstudy,andperiodicre-examination.Thisprocessensures thatboard-certifiedperiodontistsremainattheforefrontof periodontalandimplantcare

Whatisthemoralofthestory?

Drs.Godat,KingandByakinaareDiplomatesofthe AmericanBoardofPeriodontologyandareBoard certifiedinbothperiodonticsanddentalimplant surgery.Choosingaboard-certifiedperiodontist offerspatientstheassurancethattheirspecialist hasmetthehigheststandardsinthefieldbeyond requiredcertification.Thisdistinctionreflectsa dedicationtoexcellence,commitmenttostaying currentwiththelatestadvancements,providing top-qualitycare,andbeingaleaderinthespecialty ofperiodontology.Inadditiontotheirspecialty certification,Dr.GodatandDr.King,andDr. ByakinaearnedaMasterofSciencedegreein periodontology.

RONALD C. STAPLES

Memphis Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Group 6584 Poplar Avenue, Suite 101 Memphis, TN 38138 901-398-0793

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

ORAL PATHOLOGY

K. MARK ANDERSON

University of Tennessee College of Dentistry 875 Union Avenue C-319 Dunn Building Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-4559

www.uthsc.edu/dentistry

ORTHODONTICS

SIMON CHANIN

Wiess & Glassell Orthodontics 5866 Ridge Bend Road Memphis, TN 38120 901-767-7370

www.weissandglassellortho.com

TAYLOR A. COLLAZO

Pediatric Dental Group and Orthodontics 1365 South Germantown Road Germantown, TN 38138 901-363-8191 www.pdgosmiles.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 5866 Ridge Bend Road Memphis, TN 38120 901-767-7370

www.weissorthodontics.com

NATHAN R. HAMMAN

Williams & Hamman Orthodontics 7115 Getwell Road Southaven, MS 38672 662-349-2196

www.whortho.com

WILLIAM G. PARRIS

Parris Orthodontics

2136 Exeter Road, Suite 201 Germantown, TN 38138 901-683-6387

www.parrisorthodontics.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.mossmiles.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

COREY ACOSTA

Dental Care of Memphis 717 South White Station Road, Suite 7 Memphis, TN 38117 662-223-3721 pdocforkids.com

JOHN A. ACOSTA

Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis 717 South White Station Road, Suite 7 Memphis, TN 38117 901-363-8192 www.pdocforkids.com

MICHAEL D. BLEN

Pediatric Dentistry

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

BRENT CHURCH

Children’s Dental Center 1684 Poplar Avenue Memphis, TN 38104 901-245-1990

www.dentistjustforkids.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

JASON K. COLEMAN

The Children’s Dental Center 2925 Nail Road, Suite 103 Southaven, MS 38672 662-893-7337

www.southavenpediatricdentistry.com

NATHANIEL D. DENSON

Pediatric Dental Group & Orthodontics 1365 South Germantown Road Germantown, TN 38138 901-363-8191 www.pdgosmiles.com

DANIEL D. FREEMAN

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

$ 1 . 1 $1.1 M I L L I O N MILLION DRAWINGS EVERY SATURDAY 7PM-10PM 26X Entries on Dec. 29 & 30

Ritin Bomb, MD, FACC, RPVI

Cardiologist in Memphis  Voted Top Doctor by Castle Connolly

• In practice for 20+ years

• Same-day appointments are welcome

• Rapid pre-surgical assessment

• All patients seen by MD Cardiologist

• All Insurances accepted

Hospital A liations: Baptist, St. Francis, Methodist Memphis, and Highland Hills Senatobia

STEVEN J. FUSON

Pediatric Dental Group

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

ROBIN T. HOBBS

Aviation Pediatric Dental Associates 2980 Poplar Avenue, Suite 103 Memphis, TN 38111 901-310-5177 www.aviationpediatricdental.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

Children’s 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

JACOB STEGEMAN

Pediatric Dental Care

717 South White Station Road, Suite 7 Memphis, TN 38117 901-560-4386 pdocforkids.com

SUMMER B. TYSON

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

MARTHA H. WELLS

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 262 Danny Thomas Place Room B1110, Memphis, TN 38105 901-595-3622

www.stjude.org/directory/w/martha-wells

BRADLEY W. WILKINSON

Pediatric Dental Care of Memphis 6611 Kirby Center Cove Memphis, TN 38115 901-363-8192 www.pdocforkids.com

GREGORY T. WILKINSON

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

www.gregwilkinsondds.com

PERIODONTICS

PRADEEP C. ADATROW

Advanced Dental Implant & TMJ Center 7135 Getwell Road, Suite 100 Southaven, MS 38672 662-655-4868 www.advanceddentaltmj.com

ANNA C. COMPTON

Compton and Weir Periodontics & Implants

5348 Estate Ofﬁce Drive Memphis, TN 38119 901-763-4700 www.comptonweir.com

“I love helping youth, and I love what I do. This isn’t work to me. This is a passion.”

–Thurmeisha White, Youth Villages employee

It takes a family to ﬁnd just where you belong.

Creative, adaptable, focused, resilient and determined. Is this you?

The right path feels less like a job and more like a calling. Is this you?

Doesn’t shy away from hard work with a powerful payo . Is this you?

A company with national reach that feels like a family.

That’s Youth Villages. Join Youth Villages to ﬁnd a family and a forever career.

2025 TOP DENTISTS

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 S-513 Dunn Dental Building Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6279

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

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

C-520 Dunn Dental Building Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6930

www.uthsc.edu/dentistry/Grad/Pros

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

C-502 Dunn Dental Building Memphis, TN 38163 901-448-6930

www.uthsc.edu/dentistry/educational-

Newsweek’s Top Fertility Clinics in the US

Creating families together, Fertility Associates of Memphis is the only state-of-the-art practice providing comprehensive reproductive health care to couples of the Mid-South and beyond… treating patients struggling with infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss and reproductive disorders. Our highly specialized team utilizes cutting edge techniques including in vitro fertilization with laser blastocyst biopsy, preimplantation genetic testing, fertility preservation, and minimally invasive robotic surgery. Our compassionate physicians, board-certiﬁed in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, have been bringing dreams to life for over 25 years.

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

DR. PRADEEP ADATROW, founder of Advanced Dental Implant and TMJ Center, brings over 30 years of experience in dentistry and education, establishing him as a unique dual specialist in the tri-state area. As the only board-certified periodontist and prosthodontist practicing in the southern United States, Dr. Adatrow achieved this rare distinction through 14 years of extensive education, including degrees from the University of Alabama and the University of Tennessee, and postdoctoral certifications in Periodontal and Implant Surgery from Indiana University and Advanced Prosthodontics from the University of Tennessee. His dedication to excellence is underscored by his board certification from the American Board of Periodontology and his Fellowship in the International College of Dentistry, making him one of only 10,000 professionals worldwide with such high-level qualifications. Before opening his practice in Southaven, MS, Dr. Adatrow served as a Professor and Clinical

Director of Prosthodontics at the University of Tennessee for over 15 years, where he taught Dental Implant Surgery and Surgical Prosthodontics and received numerous accolades, including the Dean’s Junior Faculty Award and the John Diggs Faculty Award.

Since founding Advanced Dental in 2016, Dr. Adatrow has created a state-of-the-art facility that is both family-focused and patient-centered, emphasizing education and transparency throughout each step of the dental process. Located at the convenient cross-section of Goodman and Getwell in Southaven, the clinic attracts patients from across the region seeking specialized care in gum disease treatment, dental implants, TMJ/TMD therapy, and sedation dentistry. Supported by a dedicated team, Dr. Adatrow has placed over 20,000 implants and transformed the smiles of countless patients, striving to make each visit a positive, comfortable experience that fosters lifelong relationships.

PRADEEP ADATROW DDS, MSD

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, Dental Implants, 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.

GERMANTOWN SMILES — DENTAL CARE ELEVATED BY EXCELLENCE

Formerly known as Wilson & Patel Dental Care, Germantown Smiles continues its proud tradition of exceptional, patient-centered dentistry — with a focus on innovation, comfort, and comprehensive care. Led by Dr. Nishel Patel, who has been serving the Mid-South community since 2011, our practice combines years of trusted experience with the latest advancements in dental technology to help every patient achieve a healthy, confident smile.

At Germantown Smiles, we believe excellence is more than a goal — it’s our standard. From preventive care and routine cleanings to advanced treatments, our state-of-theart facility is equipped to provide the highest quality dentistry in a relaxing environment. We are proud to be certified Invisalign® providers, offering solutions to help patients align their smiles comfortably and confidently.

Our professional team also specializes in cosmetic smile makeovers, teeth whitening, and personalized treatment plans designed to enhance both your oral health and your confidence.

Our highly skilled and professional team shares a single vision: to elevate your dental experience through genuine care, clinical excellence, and attention to detail. From your first visit, you’ll feel the difference that comes from a team truly dedicated to your comfort and results.

We are also thrilled to welcome Dr. Savannah Hughes to our practice. With over eight years of experience serving patients in the Memphis area, Dr. Hughes shares our commitment to compassionate, detail-oriented care and brings fresh energy and expertise to our growing team.

Whether you’re seeking routine care, restorative solutions, or a complete smile transformation, Germantown Smiles is where advanced dentistry meets heartfelt service.

GERMANTOWN SMILES

Nishel Patel, DDS

Savannah Hughes, 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-ofthe-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, and The Tennessee Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

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

RYAN VICK, DDS

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. Helping patients experience healthier lives and greater conﬁdence through oral health, Bellano also offers Invisalign, dental implants, veneers, and advanced in-ofﬁce whitening in addition to routine care. The Bellano Dental Savings Plan is available for patients without dental insurance, helping them plan for and prioritize their oral health throughout the year. Visit Dr. Wade Clayton, Dr. Drew Mefford, Dr. Terry Turner, Dr. Dana Henry, Dr. Lance Ashlock, Dr. Katie Bell, Dr. Pat Barnes, Dr. Gina Harris, and Dr. Beth Kakales — to experience respectful, empathetic, and informative care at every location, thanks to one united team.

BELLANO DENTAL HEALTH

DR. LARRY HIGGINBOTHAM

DR. LARRY HIGGINBOTHAM is honored to be selected again by his peers as a Memphis Top Dentist. Dr. Higginbotham has been providing exceptional dental care and beautiful smiles for the Mid-South community for many years. His wealth of experience and dedication to excellence are reﬂected in his treatment of and compassion for his patients. Dr. Higginbotham works with his outstanding team to get to know each patient individually in order to provide personalized care. They offer all types of restorative and cosmetic dentistry, including Invisalign.

Dr. Higginbotham is a lifelong Memphian, graduating from Rhodes College and with honors from the UT College of Dentistry. He is a past president of the Memphis Dental Society, serves on the board of the Tennessee Dental Association, and is a director for the Mid-South Mission of Mercy.

Dr. Higginbotham would be honored to welcome you as a member of his dental family!

PEDIATRIC DENTAL GROUP AND ORTHODONTICS

has two locations serving West Tennessee and North Mississippi. PDGO is comprised of four partners: Steve Fuson, DDS, MS; Nate Denson, DDS, MDS; Taylor Collazo, DDS, MSD; and Clayton Floriani, DDS. There are other great associate dentists in both locations.

Our unique blend of board-certiﬁed pediatric dentists, family dentists, and board-certiﬁed orthodontist allows PDGO to offer a convenient and more complete care journey for families.

We strive to have the highest level of care and attentiveness for our patients and their parents. We are honored that so many families choose PDGO to take care of their child’s dental needs. We enjoy being able to treat children from their very ﬁrst visit until they graduate from college. PEDIATRIC DENTAL GROUP AND ORTHODONTIC

REED FAMILY DENTISTRY

AT REED FAMILY DENTISTRY, we are a thirdgeneration, family-owned dental practice celebrating 75 years of service. Millington’s first-ever dental practice, Reed Family Dentistry was started soon after World War II in 1949 by Dr. Loyd Reed and is now run by his son and grandson, Dr. Kevin Reed and Dr. Taylor Reed, respectively. With offices in Millington and Covington, we are proud to serve as our area’s premier dental practice, providing a wide array of dental services including preventative, restorative, cosmetic, periodontal care and more. The years have flown by, but one thing remains the same: our legacy of treating people, not just teeth. Thank you to our valued patients across the Mid-South who have entrusted us with their oral health and helped us be named “Top Dentists” again this year!

DR. MICHAEL LOWERY

WITH MORE THAN 20 YEARS of clinical experience, Dr. Michael Lowery is one of the few Board-Certiﬁed endodontists in the Memphis area. At North Mississippi Endodontics, Dr. Lowery provides exceptional patient care using state-of-the-art Zeiss microscopes and CBCT 3D imaging. With convenient locations in Southaven and Bartlett, his commitment to precision, comfort, and compassionate care has earned him outstanding reviews and the trust of patients across the Mid-South.

NORTH MISSISSIPPI ENDODONTICS

5740 Getwell Rd., Bldg. 10A, Southaven, MS 38672 662.890.3196 • northmsendo.com

Hidden Talents

Lakeland holds a pair of surprises.

BY BRUCE VANWYNGARDEN

Ihome for most of my life.”

After starring as a basketball player in high school, Vennemann was oﬀered a scholarship to Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, but it didn’t feel like a good ﬁt. “My mom and I went to visit the school, and it was kind of out in the middle of

Pedan Vennemann with a “S‘mores Old Fashioned.”

needed to get to Villa Castrioti by 4 p.m. to interview the restaurant’s award-winning bartender, Pedan Vennemann. Unsure of exactly where it was, I plugged the name into Google Maps and headed east to Germantown Parkway, as Siri instructed. Twenty minutes later, I pulled up to the front of the restaurant. After knocking for several minutes, I texted Vennemann: “I’m at the front door.”

“I’m looking out the front door now and I don’t see you,” came the reply.

I soon learned that Villa Castrioti has two locations in the Memphis area. And that I was at the wrong one. After another twenty minutes, I was in Lakeland, sitting at the gleaming bar in a sleek new restaurant with wonderful natural light pouring in through ﬂoor-to-ceiling windows and Italian-themed art everywhere. What a great surprise.

“We opened this location in

2022,” Vennemann says. “A lot of people don’t know that we’re out here and may not know what we oﬀer — like live music, and that we’re a really under-rated steakhouse. People like to come here for Italian, and the pasta and Italian dishes are great, but when they order that steak, it’s a totally diﬀerent world.”

Vennemann grew up in this part of the world and knows it well. “I was born in Memphis,” she says, “then my mom moved out to Fayette County, so this area has been

“My stepdaughter is 12, and my stepson is 17 and doing all the senior things. Plus, my husband and I also own a pest control company, so we’re busy people.”

“So, what do Lakeland folks like to drink?” I ask, turning the subject to one I’m familiar with.

In the Memphis Flyer’s Best of Memphis contest, Vennemann won the title of “Best Bartender” in town, an award she is proud to have.

nowhere,” she recalls, “so I decided to stay here and help with her business.”

In addition to working with her mother, Vennemann began bartending at several Arlingtonarea restaurants, before landing a job at Villa Castrioti’s Cordova location. A year or so later, she moved to the Lakeland restaurant when it opened.

“Our owners — Brian Leith, Joe Clarke, and Aaron Pullen — are great,” she says. “We don’t really have a bar manager, but I order the liquor and I’m over the drinks and recipes at all our locations, including our newest one in Nashville. But this place is my home. is is my crowd … people who have coached me, taught me, who have watched me grow up.”

It should be noted that her crowd voted in substantial numbers in the Memphis Flyer’s Best of Memphis contest, boosting Vennemann to the title of “Best Bartender” in town, an award she is proud to have. She is also the proud mother of a blended family of four children. “My youngest two are ﬁve and six, both girls in elementary school,” she says.

“One of their favorites is our ‘S’mores Old Fashioned,’” Vennemann says. “I start with a toasted-marshmallow simple syrup, which I create from scratch — toasting the marshmallows until they are nice and crispy. en I use Bird Dog S’mores Flavored Whiskey and add chocolate bitters. It’s simple, but gives oﬀ a lot of taste-tones. We like to say, ‘We bring a bonﬁre to your barstool.’”

“ at’s a great line,” I say. “Would you bring me a bonﬁre?”

“Absolutely,” Vennemann says, and sets to work creating what turns out to be a very interesting and really tasty cocktail. I remark on the complexity of the ﬂavors and get another surprise.

“I don’t drink alcohol,” Vennemann says, “so I never taste the drinks I make. But I can tell from the color and smell what they’re going to taste like. I call it a hidden talent. In fact, I just won an award for ‘Most Creative Cocktail’ at the Literatini Festival [a fundraiser for Literacy Mid-South] with my Heath Bar Espresso Martini.”

As I savor my drink, I look around the unexpectedly splendid room and ﬁnd myself pleased to discover the hidden treasures — and hidden talents — of Lakeland. It’s been a trip worth taking. I recommend it to you. Let Pedan Vennemann bring you a bonﬁre.

Villa Castrioti, 9861 Lake District West, Lakeland; 714 North Germantown Parkway, Cordova.

PEDAN VENNEMANN PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY ‘CAPTURES BY KATIE’

A Luxe Approach to Vietnamese Cuisine

Fresh flavors delight at Bao Toan.

BY MICHAEL DONAHUE

What struck me about Bao Toan is that I experienced tastes I wasn’t familiar with at all. Canh chua , for instance — a soup with a tamarind broth — tasted somewhat citrusy, but it wasn’t like anything I have encountered in the past. And the restaurant’s sea bass dish was a whole new experience for me, too — plus, it was my ﬁrst encounter with ﬁsh served in its cooking vessel.

Bao Toan is a Vietnamese restaurant owned by Karina Pham and her daughters Diana, Margaret, and Bella Tong, in Crosstown Concourse. With its elegant decor and subtle lighting, it’s the perfect escapist or romantic restaurant. e atmosphere is just as much a part of the dining adventure as the food.

“We want it to be a more relaxed vibe in there,” says server Jeremy Allen. Margaret Tong is the business manager and answers a lot of questions for first-time visitors in text printed on the back of the menu: “Bao Toan, pronounced ‘Bao Tw-ahn’ in Vietnamese, symbolizes ‘preservation’ or ‘complete protection.’ Our kitchen and cocktail bar reflect not only our family’s journey, but also our grandparents’ enduring legacy here in Memphis. After fleeing Vietnam during the war, our family found refuge here in 1978 and worked tirelessly to rebuild a life while uplifting others in the community.” eir restaurant is a “way of sharing the flavors we grew up with while embracing our experience as first-generation Americans.” e goal of Bao Toan is to become “a space where you feel at home — where stories, traditions, and new experiences come together at the table.”

Unless you can read Vietnamese, you’re not going to know what the menu item names mean because they’re all presented in Vietnamese. e descriptions are in English, though.

A friend and I recently visited Bao Toan. Allen, who was our server, was extremely informative and down-to-earth. He made sure we knew what to expect from each dish.

We began by learning the translation of each section of the menu. Ăn chơi means small plates or appetizers. Xà lách are the salads. Cơm mẹ nấu translates to “Mom’s Cooking.” ose are the traditional recipes, old-school, rustic dishes, says Allen. “Our spin on traditional things.”

And Đặc biệt are the house specials, Allen says. “Dishes you’re only going to ﬁnd at Bao Toan.”

We were amazed at how tasty the tofu was in our “Temple Tofu” appetizer. Tofu has a reputation for being bland and chewy. But this preparation is very appealing. e dish is accented with onion, carrot, sweet pepper, cabbage, shallot, peanut, and lime vinaigrette.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL DONAHUE

Thuy Luong, Karina Pham, Chloe “Bella” Tong, Margaret Tong

I thought the bò tái chanh appetizer was wonderful, too: It’s thinly sliced beef carpaccio with crispy shallots, pho spices, and lime. I ate the small circular pieces of meat with my hand.

My dining companion loved the “BT Pillows” — puﬀed and fried rice noodles stuﬀed with seafood. You can also order it with beef or tofu. I thought the pillows were bland until manager Tony Nguyen suggested I dip them in the liquid on the bottom of the bowl. I suddenly loved the pillows. e liquid is “a mixture of whatever protein you’re getting,” Allen says. “If you’re getting beef or seafood, it’s that stock mixed in with all the seasonings.”

Cá kho tô, the sea bass, is one of the most delicious things I’ve ever eaten. It’s caramelized and braised sea bass in a pot with a mixture of coconut juice and the ﬁsh sauce with rice on the side. ere also are little red, very hot ai chilis mixed in the juice, so beware. I accidentally ate one whole. But if they contribute to that great ﬂavor, bring it on.

e ﬁsh is “cooked inside that clay pot,” Allen says. So, careful not

to touch that pot when it comes to the table: It’s as hot as those chilis.

e menu describes canh chua as a sweetand-sour tamarind soup with jumbo shrimp, pineapple, tomato, and okra. All things I like. It’s very comforting. e citrusy taste was the tamarind and pineapple, Allen says.

A note for your visit: Canh chua , like other items, including the “BT Pillows,” can easily feed two.

“Ma’s Ribs” was my biggest surprise. I would definitely order these again. You can taste the meat in these very flavorful, tender ribs, but they’re not something you’d find at any Memphis barbecue restaurant. ey are their own thing — and a very appealing one.

e drinks on oﬀer are plentiful and interesting, too. e wine list features sparkling, white, rose/orange, and red wines.

Many of the cocktails are listed under idiosyncratic headings, like “Lively,” “Comforting,” “Playful,” “Conﬁdent,” and “Elegant.” ere are also zero-proof (or mocktail) options.

e “Intangible Heritage-Hung Yen” cocktail is made with 1792 small batch

whiskey, pho spices, and duck fat. Unlike most cocktails I’ve ever known, this one comes in a bowl with a lid. “Same dish we put our rice in,” Allen tells me. “You pick it up, sip it, just like they do it in the movies.”

For dessert, I tried the toasted rice and coconut crème brûlée: delicious. Bella Tong makes all the crème brûlées herself, and changes the ﬂavors to suit the season. .

As of this fall, Bao Toan has a special lunch menu full of intriguing items, including a rice and tapioca waﬄe with pandan (a vibrant green Southeast Asian leaf), and a coconut-and-condensed milk syrup served on the side. You can add fried chicken thighs or fried chicken wings.

I might also suggest the dish of sirloin steak, house-made pâté, tomatoes, pickled vegetables, and a baguette, all served on a sizzling platter. In other words, it’s going to take multiple visits with multiple friends to check out all that Bao Toan has to oﬀer. is is cuisine to keep you intrigued, surprised, and delighted.

Bao Toan Kitchen and Bar, 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 165

Bò tái chanh (beef carpaccio) appetizer

Canh chua (sweet-and-sour tamarind soup)

Chef Phillip Dewayne of Park + Cherry at Dixon Gallery & Gardens.

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: dining@memphismagazine.com.

DOWNTOWN

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, $-$$

AMELIA GENE’S—Globally inspired ﬁne-dining cuisine at the One Beale project, including Rohan duck, Wagyu ﬁlet, and an extensive cheese cart. 255 S. Front. 730-7650. D, $$-$$$ THE ARCADE—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, MRA, $ ARNOLD’S SMOKEHOUSE—A classic smokehouse with vegan and nonvegan options seasoned to perfection. Closed Mon. 2019 E. Person Ave. 922-5950. L, D, SB, $-$$$

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, MRA, $-$$$

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, MRA, $-$$

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. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111. 779-4125. L, D, $-$$

BISCUITS & JAMS—Offering sweet and savory brunch with a Cajun ﬂare. Specialties include smoked sausage or spicy fried chicken on biscuits, lemon blueberry wafﬂes, and rum custard French toast. No walk-ins on weekends. 24 N. B.B. King Blvd. 672-7905. B, L, WB, $-$$

city’s community

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, $

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, 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, MRA, $-$$$

COCOZZA AMERICAN ITALIAN—”The red sauce joint of your dreams” serves up classic Italian-American fare from the owners of Majestic Grille. Closed Sun. 110 Harbor Town Sq. 609-1111. D, $-$$

COZY CORNER—Serving up ribs, pork sandwiches, chicken, spaghetti, and more; also homemade banana pudding. Closed Mon. 735 N. Parkway. 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, $-$$

ESCO RESTAURANT AND TAPAS—Shareable dishes, turkey ribs, and seafood mac’n’cheese at this 2 Chainz franchise. 156 Lt. George W. Lee Ave. 808-3726. L, D, $$-$$$

FELICIA SUZANNE’S—Elevated down-home farmhouse food, using locally sourced ingredients, served in an atmoshere of classic Southern charm. 383 S. Main. 623-7883. L, D, $$$-$$$$.

FERRARO’S CHEESY CORNER & PIZZERIA—Plenty of pizzas, along with a whole new cheese-inspired menu (fancy grilled cheeses and build-your-own mac and cheese bowls). 111 Jackson. 522-2033. L, D, $

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, $-$$

FLAME RAMEN—Traditional Japanese ramen restaurant serving up bowls of noodles. 61 S. Second St. 441-6686. L, D, wheelchair accessible, $-$$

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

GARDEN BRUNCH CAFÉ—Fish and grits, steak and eggs, and other upscale takes on Southern brunch classics. 492 S. Main St. 249-7450. B, L, $$

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, $-$$

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

THE GOURMET GALLERY—A variety of elevated comfort dishes, like fried ribs and wafﬂes, shrimp and grits, grilled salmon, and more. Closed Mon. 412 S. Main St. 848-4691. L, D, $-$$$

GROOVY GRATITUDE—Offers a vibrant selection of cold-pressed juices, handcrafted smoothies, and healthy eats like paninis and acai bowls. Closed Sun. 605 N. Second St. 417-8007. B, L, WB, $

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, MRA, $

DINING SYMBOLS

B — breakfast

L — lunch

D — dinner

SB — Sunday brunch

WB — weekend brunch

HIVE BAGEL & DELI Bagels, bagels, and more bagels at this new downtown deli offering baked goods, sandwiches, and salads. Closed Mon./Tue. 276 S. Front St. 509-2946. B, L, $

MRA — member, Memphis Restaurant Association

$ — under $15 per person without drinks or desserts

$$ — under $25

$$$ — $26-$50

CHEZ PHILIPPE—Classical/contemporary French cuisine with Asian and Nordic inﬂuences, presented in a luxurious atmosphere with seasonal tasting menus from chef Keith Clinton. Afternoon tea served Thu.-Sun., noon-3:30 p.m. (reservations required). Closed Sun.-Tues. The Peabody, 149 Union. 529-4188. D, MRA, $$$$

$$$$ — over $50

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, $-$$$

HU. ROOF—Rooftop cocktail bar 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, $

ITTA BENA—Southern and Cajun-American cuisine served here, 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, MRA, $$-$$$

JEM DINING—Chef Josh Mutchnick offers a dining experience that’s memorable, reﬁned, unpretentious, and welcoming with dishes from around the world. Closed Sun./Mon./Tue. 644 Madison Ave. 286-1635. D, $$-$$$

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—Home of the four-pound Kookamonga Burger (no charge to anyone who can eat it in less than 60 minutes), plus other (smaller) burgers, sandwiches, wings, soups, and salads. 57 S. Second, 901-578-9800. L,D, MRA, $-$$

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 LOBBYIST AT THE CHISCA—Chef Jimmy Gentry brings his farm-to-table ideas downtown, with seasonal, and sometimes weekly, new menus, and an emphasis on creative vegetable dishes. Closed Sun. 272 S. Main St., Suite 101. 249-2170. D, $$-$$$$

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, $-$$

THE LOOKOUT AT THE PYRAMID—Serves seafood and Southern fare, including cornmeal-fried oysters, sweet tea brined chicken, and elk chops. 1 Bass Pro Dr. 620-4600/291-8200. L, D, $-$$$

LUNA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE—Serving a limited menu of breakfast and lunch items. Dinner entrees include citrus glaze salmon and Cajun stuffed chicken. 179 Madison (Hotel Napoleon). 526-0002. B, D (Mon.-Sat.), $-$$$

MACIEL’S—Entrees include tortas, fried taco plates, quesadillas, chorizo and pastor soft tacos, salads, and more. Closed Sun. 45 S. Main. 526-0037; 3397 Summer. 707-7932 (Berclair). MRA, $ MAHOGANY RIVER TERRACE—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. 280 Island Drive, 901-249-9774. L, D, SB, $-$$$

THE MAJESTIC GRILLE—Features aged steaks, fresh seafood, and such specialties as roasted chicken and grilled pork tenderloin; offers a pre-theater menu and classic cocktails. Well-stocked bar. 145 S. Main. 522-8555. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$

McEWEN’S—Southern/American cuisine with international flavors; specialties include steak and seafood, sweet potato-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), MRA, $$-$$$

MESQUITE CHOP HOUSE—The focus here is on steaks, including prime fillet, rib-eyes, and prime-aged New York strip; also, some seafood options. 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-890-2467; 88 Union. 5275337. 249-5661. D, SB, $$-$$$

MOLLIE FONTAINE LOUNGE—Specializes in tapas (small plates) featuring global cuisine. Closed Sun.-Tues. 679 Adams Ave. 524-1886. D, MRA, $

MOMMA’S ROADHOUSE—This diner and dive at Highway 55 serves up smoked wings, burgers, and beer, among other solid bar-food options 855 Kentucky. 207-5111. L, D, MRA, $

PAULETTE’S—Presents fine dining with a Continental flair, including such entrees as filet Paulette with butter cream sauce 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, $-$$$

RENDEZVOUS, CHARLES VERGOS’—Menu items include barbecued ribs, cheese plates, skillet shrimp, red beans and rice, and Greek salads. Closed Sun.-Mon. 52 S. Second. 523-2746. L (Fri.Sat.), D, $-$$

ROCK’N DOUGH—A blend of Italian and American foods like artisan pizza, salads, pasta, burgers, and house-brewed beers. 704 Madison Ave. 587-6256. L, D, $-$$

SABOR CARIBE—Serving up “Caribbean flavors” with dishes from 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, $-$$

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, $

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

SOB—Elevated gastropub that serves favorites like general Tso’s cauliflower or duck fried rice. 345 S. Main. 526-0388; 5040 Sanderlin (East Memphis). 818-0821; 1329 W. Poplar Ave. 286-1360. L, D, WB, $-$$

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; 5469 Poplar Ave. (East Memphis). 844-6117. B, L, MRA, $

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, 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, WB, $$-$$$

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, $$-$$$

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, $

WINGMAN—Downtown lounge and hookah bar offering wings galore with ten signature sauces, and plenty of other goodies. 143 Madison Ave. L, D, WB, $-$$

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, $-$$

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, $ ASHTAR GARDEN—Southern twists on classic brunch dishes, and plenty of cocktails. Closed Mon.-Wed. 898 Cooper St. 4431514. L, D, $-$$

BABALU TACOS & TAPAS—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, MRA, $-$$

BAIN BARBECUE & BAKERY—Brian Bain’s popular Texas-style 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, MRA, $

BAR KEOUGH—It’s old-school eats and cocktails at the new CooperYoung neighborhood corner bar by Kevin Keough. 247 Cooper St. D, $ BAR-B-Q SHOP—Dishes up barbecued ribs, spaghetti, bologna, other classics. Closed Sun. 1782 Madison. 272-1277. L, D, 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, MRA, $-$$$

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

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), 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, $-$$

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, MRA, $-$$$

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, 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, $

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, 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, MRA, $-$$

COMPLICATED PILGRIM—Quick-serve coffee shop, bar, and restaurant all in one at The Memphian hotel. 21 S. Cooper St. 538-7309. B, L, D, $-$$

COOPER’S—“A charming experience for all ages,“ with po-boys, wraps, wings, fettucini. 959 S. Cooper. 343-0103. 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, $

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, $-$$

EVERGREEN GRILL—Serving classic American cuisine like patty melts, burgers, phillies, and more to bring you the comforting taste of home. Closed Mon./Tue. 212 N. Evergreen St. 779-7065. L, D, X,$$-$$$

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, $ FAWN—Seasonal, tapas-style dishes (don’t miss the sourdough bread and butter) in a chic setting. Closed Mon. 937 Cooper St. 310-4890. D, SB, $$

FEAST & GRAZE—Whipped goat toast, open-faced grilled cheese, and other local pantry snacks and charcuterie boards. Closed Sun./Mon. Inside Brooks Museum, 1934 Poplar. 654-5926. L, $

FINO’S FROM THE HILL—Italian deli offers old favorites such as the Acquisto as well as a new breakfast menu. Germantown location paired with Happy Glaze Donuts. 1853 Madison. 272-FINO; 7781 Farmington Blvd. (Germantown). B, L, D, $

FLAME RAMEN—Traditional Japanese ramen restaurant serving up bowls of noodles in Midtown. 1838 Union Ave. 779-8666; 61 S. Second St., Suite 160 (downtown). D, $-$$

FLIP SIDE—Pinball meets pub in the Crosstown neighborhood, with plenty of games alongside a Caribbean- and Latin-inspired menu. Closed Mon. 1349 Autumn Ave. 207-6193. 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, $-$$

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, MRA, $

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

GOOD GROCERIES MARKET & CAFÉ—Providing fresh, healthy, cruelty-free meals, Good Groceries offers a classic American menu

with a twist: instead of pork, they use duck for their BBQ. They also sell quesadillas, mac-and-cheese, sandwiches, and more. Closed Sun. 585 S. Cooper St. 325-1269. B, L, D, $

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, $-$$

GUAC FRESH MEX—Authentic Mexican cuisine and four types of guacamole. Closed Sun. 782 Washington Ave. 587-4100. L, D, $

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, $

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). 754-3885; 77 S. Second (downtown). 527-2700; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 8544455; 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, 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, $

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, $-$$

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, $

JACK BROWN’S BEER AND BURGER JOINT—Another spot to satisfy your burger craving, this time with 100% American Wagyu beef. 2197 Central Ave. 512-6957. L, D, $-$$$

THE JUICE JOINT—Locally owned purveyor of cold-pressed juices, smoothies, açai bowls, and snacks. 1350 Concourse Ave. 572-1127; 3139 Poplar Ave. (East Memphis). 207-2535. B, L, $-$$

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

LOS COMALES—Authentic Mexican cuisine, daily specials, and strong margaritas. 1322 Madison. 440-8393; 345 Madison Ave. (downtown). 590-4524; 2860 S. Perkins (East Memphis). 369-0528. L, D, $-$$

LOUIS CONNELLY’S BAR FOR FUN TIMES & FRIENDSHIP—An upgraded dive bar with a neighborhood feel and a rockin’ SMASH burger. Closed Sun. and Mon. 322 S. Cleveland St. 433-9582. L, D, $-$$

MADISON TAVERN—Indoor and outdoor seating available, plus a full menu with a range of comfort foods and drinks on tap. 2126 Madison Ave. 417-8029. L, D, $-$$$

MARY’S B.O.T.E.—This bar of tropical escapism offers over 30 specialty drinks, pizzas, bar snacks, and a cozy interior that transports customers to the beach. 21+ only. Closed Mon. 588 S. Cooper St. No phone number. D, wheelchair accessible, $

MEMPHIS JAMAICAN KITCHEN—Authentic Jamaican specialties, including jerk chicken and oxtails. 1354 Madison Ave. L, D, $$

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). 753-2218; 797 W. Poplar (Collierville). 861-7800; 5627 Getwell (Southaven). 662-5361364. L, D, $-$$

MEMPHIS TOAST—Provides authentic Memphian breakfast cuisine and features themed rooms to honor iconic Memphis figures. Specialties include French toast, shrimp and grits, and their little Lucille breakfast burrito. 954 Jackson Ave. 417-7817. B, L, WB, $-$$

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, $-$$

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, MRA, $-$$

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, $-$$

PETALS OF A PEONY—Authentic Chinese restaurant serving chicken, fish, tofu, and more, smothered in spicy sauces. 2110 Madison Ave. 207-6680. L, 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, $$

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, $-$$

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, $-$$$

SEN TRANG—Serving a wide variety of Chinese and Vietnamese soups, stir-fries, and noodles. 1615 Madison Ave. 276-0006. L, D, wheelchair accessible, $-$$

SLICE MIDTOWN—Serving New York-style pizza as well as subs and pasta dishes (formerly known as Little Italy). 1495 Union. 725-0280; L, D, $-$$

SMOKY CITY BBQ—Serving authentic Memphis barbeque, including burgers, ribs, wings, and daily specials. Closed Sun. 1023 Jackson Ave. 425-3115. L, D, $-$$$

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, 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, $

TEKILA MEXICAN CUISINE—Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Specialties include chicken mole, enchiladas verde, and the trio special. 1433 Union Ave. 510-5734. L, D, WB, wheelchair accessible, $-$$$

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, $-$$

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, 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, $ 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, $-$$

CACHE 42 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS—Elevated fine dining (think golden rack of lamb or lobster queso) and cocktail lounge at MoneyBagg Yo’s restaurant; menu by chef Daris Leatherwood. Brunch and lunch options coming soon. 4202 Hacks Cross Rd., Suite 121. 494-5458. 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, $-$$

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, $-$$$

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, $-$$

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, $

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, $-$$

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, 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, MRA, $ SUMMER / BERCLAIR / RALEIGH / BARTLETT

901 HOT POT & KOREAN BBQ—All-you-can-eat hot pot and Korean BBQ, from short ribs to garlic shrimp. 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy. 512-4963. L, D, $$-$$$

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—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, $ 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, $ CHEF FLAVAS AND BARTLETT BREAKFAST FACTORY ”Flavaful” sandwiches, soups, pastas, and more from the makers of the popular local spinach artichoke dip. Traditional breakfast options served by Bartlett Breakfast Factory. Closed Sun./Mon. 6301 Stage Rd. 779-2200. B, 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. Suite 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, $

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, MRA, $

HABANA CLUB RESTAURANT, BAR & GRILLE—Offering authentic Cuban fare. 6110 Macon Rd. 480-8173. L, D, $-$$

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, $

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

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, Suite 3. 373-4411. L, D, $-$$

PANCAKE SHOP—Classic breakfast items plus meat-and-three lunches, sandwiches, soups, salads. Open 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. every day except Wednesday. 4838 Summer. 767-0206. B, L, $

ÓRALE TACOS & BAKERY—Tacos, enchiladas, and other traditional Southern Mexican dishes alongside baked pan dulces. 2204 Whitten Rd. 571-1786. B, 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, $-$$

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, $-$$

TACO PRIME—Modern taqueria where bold Mexican dishes meet Southern hospitality. 8222 U.S. 64. Closed Sunday. L,D, $-$$

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

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, $-$$$

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, $

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, MRA, $-$$$

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, MRA, $-$$

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.; 363 S. Front St. (downtown). 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, $$-$$$

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, $-$$

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, 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, 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, $

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, $-$$

BELLE MEADE SOCIAL—Upscale Americana cuisine including lamb lollipops, spicy tuna stack, and steak & noodle salad. 518 Perkins Extd. 480-7054. L, D, $-$$$

BELMONT GRILL—Burgers, steak sandwiches, and other classic American fare at one of Memphis’ longstanding bars. 4970 Poplar. 767-0305. L, D, $-$$

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, $$-$$$

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, $-$$

BOG & BARLEY—An all-Irish fine dining experience by the owners of Celtic Crossing, and a full bar with plenty of beer and 25-year-old Macallan. 6150 Poplar, Suite 124. 805-2262. L, D, WB, $-$$

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, $-$$$

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, $$$-$$$$

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; 1707 Madison. 421-6949. L, D, $-$$

CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL—Burritos, quesadillas, tacos, salads, and bowls made to order while customers watch. 2046 Union. 729-2640; 4726 Summer. 590-1839; 5865 Poplar; 2110 West St. 256-6202; 695 N. Germantown Parkway (Germantown), 416-1944. L, D, $-$$

CHUKIS TACOS 2—Traditional homestyle Mexican recipes. 3445 Poplar Ave., Suite 1. 888-4139. B, L, D, $-$$

CIAO BELLA—Among the Italian and Greek specialties are lasagna, seafood pasta, gourmet pizzas, and vegetarian options. 5101 Sanderlin Ave. 205-2500. D, 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, $

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

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, MRA, $-$$

THE CRAZY COOP—Plenty of hot wings and sauces, plus sandwiches and other dinner plates. 1315 Ridgeway Rd. 748-5325; 7199 Stage Rd. (Bartlett). 433-9212. L, D, $-$$

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, $

ERLING JENSEN—For decades, Chef Erling 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, 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, $-$$$

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

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, $

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, $

HALF SHELL—Specializes in seafood, such as king crab legs; also serves steaks, chicken, pastas, salads, sandwiches, and a ”voodoo menu.” 688 S. Mendenhall. 682-3966; 9091 Poplar, Germantown. 590-4304. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$

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

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, $-$$

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. Closed for lunch Mon. 707 W. Brookhaven Cir. 207-7396. L, D, SB, MRA. $-$$$

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), 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, $

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. (inside Novel). 800-2656. B, L, D, SB, $-$$

THE LIQUOR STORE—All-day breakfast, sandwiches, and entrees such as Salisbury steak and smothered pork chops. 669 S. Mendenhall Rd. B, L, D, $-$$

LITTLE ITALY EAST—New York-style pizzas galore and homemade pasta. Closed Sun. 6300 Poplar Ave., Ste. 113. 729-7432. L, $-$$

MAGNOLIA & MAY—Southern-inspired, family-owned, casual dining restaurant serving up a variety of sandwiches, chef-inspired dishes, and craft cocktails. Popular items include shrimp and grits and the double cheeseburger. Closed Mon. 718 Mt. Moriah Rd. 676-8100. L, D, WB, MRA. $$-$$$

MANDE DIBI WEST AFRICAN BBQ GRILL—Pairs traditional West African BBQ with Memphis BBQ for a menu that offers a wide variety of flavors, including daily specials and vegan-friendly options. 6825 Winchester Rd. 672-8995. L, D, $-$$$

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, $-$$

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, $-$$

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, MRA, $

MULAN ASIAN BISTRO—Pan-Asian fare includes sushi and Sichuan dishes. 4598 Spottwood Ave. 347-3965. L, D, $-$$

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, $

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, MRA, $$-$$$

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, $

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, $

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, 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, $

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, 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, $-$$$

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. 818-3889. L, D, $-$$

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, $

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, MRA, $

RED HOOK CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Cajun-style array of seafood including shrimp, mussels, clams, crawfish, and oysters. 3295 Poplar. 207-1960. L, D, $-$$

RED KOI—Classic Japanese cuisine offered at this family-run restaurant; hibachi steaks, sushi, seafood, chicken, and vegetables. 5847 Poplar. 767-3456. L, D, $-$$

RED PIER CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Owners of Red Hook bring more Cajun-style seafood dishes. 5901 Poplar Ave. 512-5923. 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.” 4550 Poplar. 590-2828. L, D, $$-$$$

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, $$$

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, $-$$$

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, $$$-$$$$

SALSA COCINA MEXICANA—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, $-$$

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, $$-$$$

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; 3660 S. Houston Levee Road, Suite 104 (Collierville). 286-4335; 7704 Poplar (Germantown). 800-1951; 2902 May Blvd. (Southaven). B, L, WB, $ 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. 779-3499. L, D, $

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, $ TJ MULLIGAN’S—Cold drinks, comfort food, and plenty of live entertainment. 1817 Kirby Pkwy. (East Memphis). 755-2481; 8070 Trinity Rd. Suite 1 (Cordova). 756-4480; 2821 N. Houston Levee Rd. (Lakeland). 377-9997. L, D, $-$$

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. 371-0580. For more locations, go online. L, D, $ 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, $-$$ WANG’S MANDARIN HOUSE—Offers Mandarin, Cantonese, Szechuan, and spicy Hunan entrees, including the golden-sesame chicken; next door is East Tapas, serving small plates with an Asian twist. 6065 Park Ave., Park Place Mall. 763-0676. L, D, $-$$

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, $-$$

THE WING GURU—A staple of the Memphis wing scene, featuring everything from classic buffalo to exquisite lemon pepper. 5699 Mt. Moriah Rd. 509-2405; 875 W. Poplar Ave., Suite 6 (Collierville). 221-7488; 8253 Highway 51 North, Suite 103 (Millington). 872-0849; 4130 Elvis Presley Blvd (Whitehaven) 791-4726; 5224 Airline Rd., Suite 107 (Arlington). 209-0349. L, D, $-$$

WOMAN’S EXCHANGE TEA ROOM—Chicken-salad plate, beef tenderloin, soups-and-sandwiches, vegetable plates, and homemade desserts are specialties. Closed Sat.-Sun. 88 Racine. 327-5681. L, $

CORDOVA

THE BLUE ROOM RESTAURANT—An elevated take on traditional Southern recipes, located in the U of M Kemmons Wilson Culinary Institute. Closed Mon. 1245 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 101. 249-7512. D, SB, $$-$$$

BOMBAY HOUSE—Indian fare includes lamb korma and chicken tikka; also, a daily luncheon buffet. 1727 N. Germantown Pkwy. 755-4114. L, D, $-$$

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, $$-$$$ 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, $-$$ EL MERO TACO—This food truck turned restaurant serves up Mexican and Southern-style fusion dishes, including fried chicken tacos, chorizo con papas tacos, and brisket quesadillas. 8100 Macon Station, Suite 102. 308-1661. Closed Sun.-Mon. L, D, WB, $ POKÉ WORLD—Serves up Hawaiian poké bowls filled with rice and diced, raw fish. Also offers Taiwanese bubble tea and rolled ice cream for dessert. 1605 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 111. 623-7986. East Memphis: 575 Erin Dr. 779-4971. L, D, $ PETALS OF A PEONY—Authentic Sichuan cuisine, from crispy duck to peony fried chicken. Be prepared for spice! 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy. 787-8886. L, D, $-$$

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, $-$$

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, $-$$$

VILLA CASTRIOTI—From traditional pasta dishes and family concoctions to hand-tossed brick oven NY pizza. 714 N. Germantown Pkwy #15 in Cordova. L, D, MRA, $$$ GERMANTOWN

BLUE HONEY BISTRO—Entrees at this upscale eatery include brown butter scallops served with Mississippi blue rice and herb-crusted beef tenderloin with vegetables and truffle butter. Closed Sun. 9155 Poplar, Suite 17. 552-3041. D, $-$$$

FIRST WATCH—Fresh, made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch creations. 7810 Poplar. 665-5590. B, WB, L, $-$$

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, 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, $-$$

LIMELIGHT—Wolf River Hospitality Group brings Wagyu beef, duck gnocchi, and other fine dining dishes on a rotating seasonal menu. Closed Mon./Tue. 7724 Poplar Pike. 791-2328. D, $-$$$

LOCAL LIME—Tacos and margaritas in a casual environment, plus other goodies like the Mexican caramel apple crisp skillet. Closed Mon. 7605 W. Farmington Blvd., Suite 1. 224-2204. L, D, $-$$$

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

MR. P’S WINGS—Casual eatery featuring hot wings, burgers, fried fish, and other American food. 2075 Exeter Rd., Suite 35. 587-6777. L, D, $$

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, $

RIO LOBO CANTINA—Mexican and Latin-American cuisine. 3165 Forest Hill Irene Rd. 310-3432. L,D, $-$$

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, 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, $-$$

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, $-$$

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, MRA, $-$$$

STONEY RIVER STEAKHOUSE AND GRILL—Specializes in hand-cut steaks, a fresh seafood selection, and plenty of house specials. 7515 Poplar Ave., Suite 101. 207-1100. L, D, $$-$$$$

SUFI’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & BAR—Offers authentic Mediterranean and Persian cuisine, from hummus shawarma to traditional moussaka. Closed Mon. 7609 Poplar Pike. 779-2200. L, D, $-$$$

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.), $

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, $-$$$

COLLIERVILLE

BELLY ACRES—Upscale burger restaurant, featuring creative combos such as the Cowboy (fried onion strings, pickled jalapeños, and BBQ saucer, or the Hot Pow with pepper jack and spinach. 3660 S. Houston Levee Rd. 209-0168; 6130 Poplar (Memphis) 707-7638. L, D, $-$$

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, $-$$

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, $

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, MRA, $-$$

DAVID GRISANTI’S ON MAIN—Serving Northern Italian cuisine and traditional Grisanti family recipes. Closed Sun./Mon. 148 N. Main. 861-1777. L, D, $-$$$

DYER’S CAFE—Juicy hamburgers, split dogs, and milkshakes at the historic Collierville restaurant. 101 N. Center St. 850-7750. L, D, $-$$

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). 8671883; 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, $

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, $-$$

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 HOTEL—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

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, $-$$$

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, MRA, $-$$$

MAUVE’S TAVERN—An Irish-themed eatery with elevated tavern classics, from signature burgers to hearty entrees featuring locally sourced ingredients. 78 N. Main on the Town Square. L, D, SB, $-$$$

MAROON BREW CO.—Family-friendly restaurant serving up gourmet hot dogs, smash burgers, chicken, and shareables, all made to pair with beers brewed on-site. Closed Mon. 642 W. Poplar Ave., Collierville. 799-0354. L, D, $-$$

MULAN ASIAN BISTRO—Hunan Chicken, tofu dishes, and orange beef served here; sushi and Thai food, too. 2059 Houston Levee. 8505288; 2149 Young. 347-3965; 4698 Spottswood. 609-8680. L, D, $-$$

NASHOBA—Offers live music, sports games, and pub classics. Specialties are hot honey flatbread pizza, brisket fried rice, and the Nashoba burger. 4600 Merchants Park Circle, Suite 111, Collierville. 630-4683. L, D, wheelchair accessible, $-$$

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, $-$$$

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, $-$$

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, $-$$

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, $-$$

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, $

ARLINGTON / LAKELAND

BRENDALAY GRILLE—Wide variety of steaks, flatbreads, pasta, soups, sandwiches. Favorites: Brendalay BBQ Shrimp and Cajun Rosemary Shrimp. 6259 Quintard St., Arlington. 317-6998. L, D, SB, $$$$

KITCHEN TABLE—“Crafted comfort food that makes you feel right at home.” Steaks, seafood, catfish, chicken, chops, soups, salad, even hand-spun cotton candy. 12062 Forrest St., Arlington. 317-6402. L,D, SB. $-$$

VILLA CASTRIOTI—From traditional family dishes and pasta concoctions to hand-tossed brick-oven NY pizza. 9861 Lake District Dr., Lakeland. 466-8288. W., L,D, MRA, $$$

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, $-$$

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, $$-$$$

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, $-$$$

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, $-$$

HARRY’S ITALIAN—Authentic Italian dishes using traditional recipes made from scratch, plus steaks and other entrees. 8472 U.S. Highway 51, Millington, TN. 872-0056. L, D, $-$$$

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, $

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, $-$$$

MEMPHIS BARBECUE COMPANY—Offers spare ribs, baby backs, and pulled pork and brisket. 709 Desoto Cove (Horn Lake, MS). 662-536-3762. L, D, $-$$

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, $

SAINT LEO—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, $-$$

SIMON’S—A unique dining experience situated on Court Square in a charming small town, offering Angus steaks, catfish, BBQ brisket. Closed Mon./Tue. 201 N. Main St. (Bolivar, TN). 731-403-3474. L, D, $$-$$$

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, $-$$

WALK-ON’S SPORTS BISTREAUX. Cajun classics: fried alligator, pepperjack boudin, shrimp, gumbo, along with unique specialties. 2715 Snowden Lane, Southaven. 662-870-8379. 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). 870655-0222. L, D, WB, $-$$$

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