Memphis November 2025

G E N E R O S I T Y G U I D E | A -TA N | G R I Z Z L I E S ' 2 5 T H

MAGAZINE

L O C A L

VOL L NO 8 | NOVEMBER 2025

T R E A S U R E S

THE MOUNTAIN OF YOUTH USA $5.99

AT 90, DALE SANDERS IS ON THE PATH TO A RECORD-BREAKING HIKE.

DISPLAY UNTIL DECEMBER 10, 2025

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EIZA GONZÁLEZ

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10/16/25 5:20 PM

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on the cover: Dale Sanders, aka Greybeard.

PHOTOGR APH COURT ES Y DALE SANDERS

V O L L N O 8 | NOVEMBER 2025

UP FRONT 10 F R O M T H E E D I T O R ~ b y a n n a t r a v e r s e 12 O U T A N D A B O U T ~ b y a b i g a i l m o r i c i 14 C L A S S I C D I N I N G ~ b y m i c h a e l d o n a h u e 16 A S K V A N C E ~ b y v a n c e l a u d e r d a l e 18 B O O K S ~ b y j e s s e d a v i s 20 C I T Y J O U R N A L ~ b y t o m j o n e s

FEATURES 24 2025 Holiday Gift Guide

We provide a head start for your shopping season.

30 L O C A L T R E A S U R E S

The Mountain of Youth At 90, Dale Sanders is on the path to a record-breaking hike — all 2,199 miles of the Appalachian Trail. ~ b y a n n a t r a v e r s e

41 Toward the Good

The Jewish Foundation offers pathways to generosity from one generation to the next. ~ b y j o n w. s pa r k s 52 Building a Foundation for the Future Eighty years ago, local business leaders founded the West Tennessee Home Builders Association. ~ b y m i c h a e l f i n g e r 63 Generosity Guide A certain jolly ol’ elf offers a few “outside the box” ways to give this season that last longer than the traditional presents and bows.

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86 S I P S

Red Sauce Steven Burns feels right at home at Cocozza East. ~ by b r u c e va n w y n g a r d e n

88 C I T Y D I N I N G

The city’s most extensive dining listings.

96 L A S T S T A N D

Silver Griz An NBA team — and the culture it celebrates — marks a special milestone. ~ b y f r a n k m u r ta u g h

SPECIAL SECTIONS

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L E T T E R

F R O M

T H E

E D ITO R

Walk On By

BY ANNA TRAVERSE

M

y dad told a story about a career aptitude test he and his classmates were given in middle school. As he remembered it, he was asked a long series of questions about his likes, dislikes, abilities, and so on. Once tabulated, the test pronounced that he’d be well-suited for a career as a forest ranger.

Evidently, an awful lot of his peers got the same result: If they’d followed the advice, this country would have even more out-of-work forest rangers right now.

We can’t all grow up to be forest rangers, but we can learn something from the realization that so many of us would be happier, more peaceful if we spent our days walking the woods. I know that’s true of me. When walking outside, especially on unpaved earth, I’m more grounded (literally), less anxious, more in touch with my lungs and heart and muscles. It’s rare, in this phase of life, that I can devote more than an hour or so to a walk — but when the chance arises, it’s marvelous.

Once I find the cadence of my stride, it feels like I could go on walking forever. Maybe I could.

A 2023 study found, hilariously, that nearly 50 percent of men surveyed fully believed they would be capable of landing a passenger plane if the need arose. (Only 20 percent of women thought they

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would pull it off.) Safely landing such a large craft requires hundreds of hours of training and a complex series of steps. Sure, it’s possible — with the help of Air Traffic Control (if they were not furloughed that day) — that some percentage of untrained people would manage it. But I can’t imagine feeling confident I would be among that group. Nor can I imagine that close to half the men I know would get it done. (My dad absolutely would have.)

Landing a commercial aircraft and hiking the Appalachian Trail (AT) don’t share many obvious elements in common, but both are arduous undertakings that would thwart most of us. The AT, if you aren’t familiar, is a path stretching some 2,199 miles, from Georgia all the way to Maine. Portions of the trail are manageable by casual day-hikers, while other stretches pose great difficulty: rocky scrambles, elevation switches, isolation from aid, the works. Yet every year, about 3,000 individuals set out to hike the entire thing — a “through-hike,” in the parlance of the AT. Only about 20 to 25 percent succeed.

Presumably the vast majority of those who set out — hiking poles in hand, packs carefully stocked — do so with the intention, the belief, that they will be among the 20 to 25 percent. It doesn’t take any statistical expertise to see the valley between expectation and probable outcome.

I don’t for a second think I could land a passenger plane. But I earnestly believe I could hike from Maine to Georgia.

I’m in my early 40s, though. Dale Sanders, whom I interviewed for our cover story, the day before he left for the AT, is 90 years old. As you read this — “God willing and the creeks don’t rise,” as Dale likes to say — he’s still out there, in a valley or atop a ridge, taking one step and then another toward what would be a world record-breaking hike. He’s got a careful plan for his journey, and a rock-solid crew of helpers around him, but as he reminded me, we each have to hike our own hike. No shortcuts. Just keep walking.

In the end, there’s no magic trick to a quest like Dale’s. He prepared as thoroughly as he could, and he’s uncommonly fit for his age — for anyone’s age, I suspect. Those things help. But he’s also simply someone who finds it in himself to keep moving, to keep walking, endlessly forward. I’d like to remember Dale’s attitude as my own days slip past: Stay in the moment, but don’t stay in one place.

Keep moving. Keep going.

MT. MORIAH PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF ANNA TRAVERSE

10/17/25 2:53 PM

OUT AND ABOUT IN MEMPHIS

ORPHEUM SOIREE

“L’ESTAMPE ORIGINALE: A GRAPHIC TREASURE”

NOVEMBER 2025

COMPILED BY ABIGAIL MORICI

SCOTLAND’S CANTRIP

“L’ESTAMPE ORIGINALE: A GRAPHIC TREASURE”

JAZZ IN THE BOX: MISHA PIATIGORSKY Get up-close

A celebration of printmaking from the 19th century.

and personal with live jazz. GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, NOVEMBER 7, 7 P.M.

DIXON GALLERY & GARDENS, THROUGH JANUARY 11

“REFLECTION+RITUAL+REFUGE” A solo mixedINDIA FEST Experience the food, music, art, and culture of India. AGRICENTER INTERNATIONAL, NOVEMBER

MEMPHIS TIGERS FOOTBALL Nov. 7 vs. Tulane, Nov. 27 vs. Navy. SIMMONS BANK LIBERTY STADIUM MEMPHIS MUSIC HISTORY TOUR Hear the stories of the many talented Memphis musicians buried in in city’s oldest graveyard. ELMWOOD CEMETERY,

1, 10 A.M.–8 P.M.

NOVEMBER 8, 10 A.M.

DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS PARADE & FESTIVAL Celebrating

MEMPHIS CRAFTS & DRAFTS FESTIVAL: HOLIDAY MARKET Shop till you drop at this locals-

media exhibition by Brantley Ellzey. CROSSTOWN ARTS, THROUGH JANUARY 25

the cycle of life and death with art-making, face painting, music, and entertainment. MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART, NOVEMBER 1, 11:30 A.M.–3:30 P.M.

901 HOT WING FESTIVAL Try hot wings and vote for your

& JULIET

favorite. GRIND CITY BREWING COMPANY, NOVEMBER 1, NOON BROAD AVENUE ART WALK Featuring 80-plus local artists and makers, live music, and fun activities. BROAD AVENUE, NOVEMBER 1, 11 A.M.–5 P.M.

MEMPHIS JAPAN FESTIVAL Honoring the history, culture, and people of Japan with interactive and hands-on experiences of Japanese culture featuring food, entertainment, games, crafts, and more. MEMPHIS

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first market. CROSSTOWN CONCOURSE, NOVEMBER 8, 10 A.M.–4 P.M.

MEMPHIS TIGERS BASKETBALL Nov. 8 vs. San Francisco, Nov. 16 vs. UNLV, Nov. 26 vs. Southern Illinois. FEDEXFORUM THE DIRTY DOZEN BRASS BAND Enjoy a blended “musical gumbo” from this Grammy Awardwinning New Orleans-based band. HALLORAN CENTRE, NOVEMBER 8, 7:30 P.M.

ORPHEUM SOIREE Support the arts at this Back to the Future-themed night. ORPHEUM THEATRE,

BOTANIC GARDEN, NOVEMBER 2, 9:30 A.M.–4 P.M.

NOVEMBER 14, 7 P.M.

DAY OF THE DEAD CONCERT Music, memory, and

LANTERN FESTIVAL The Memphis Zoo debuts a

celebration entwine in Luna Nova’s evocative music program. ELMWOOD CEMETERY, NOVEMBER 2, 2 P.M. SIP AND STROLL (21+) A walking tour of a highlighted specialty garden featuring themed cocktails. MEMPHIS

dazzling wonderland of color and light. MEMPHIS ZOO,

BOTANIC GARDEN, NOVEMBER 6, 6 P.M.

NOVEMBER 17, 10:30 A.M.

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES BASKETBALL Nov. 3 vs. Detroit, Nov. 5 vs. Houston, Nov. 7 vs. Dallas, Nov. 9 vs.

Oklahoma City, Nov. 20 vs. Sacramento, and Nov. 24 vs. Denver. FEDEXFORUM

VITAMIN STRING QUARTET Featuring the music

NOVEMBER 14–JANUARY 31

TREE TOUR Elmwood’s tree expert Amanda Zorn shows guests centuries-old trees. ELMWOOD CEMETERY,

of Taylor Swift, Bridgerton, and beyond. GPAC, NOVEMBER 1, 8 P.M.

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS: CANTRIP BY DYLAN LADDS

10/16/25 11:39 AM

ARTRAGEOUS! Combining music and dynamic choreography with painting. BARTLETT PERFORMING

NEW BALLET’S

ARTS & CONFERENCE CENTER, NOVEMBER 1, 2 P.M.

CLASSICAL COMEDIES & COCKTAILS READING SERIES A breezy, cocktail-enhanced experience of three of the world’s most enduring comedies.

TENNESSEE SHAKESPEARE COMPANY. ANTON CHEKHOV’S THE THREE SISTERS, NOVEMBER 2, 3 P.M.; MOLIERE’S TARTUFFE, NOVEMBER 9, 3 P.M.; NOËL COWARD’S BLITHE SPIRIT, NOVEMBER 16, 3 P.M.

SCOTLAND’S CANTRIP A celebrated Edinburgh ensemble. BUCKMAN ARTS CENTER, NOVEMBER 6, 7 P.M. IRIS FELLOWS & ARTISTS An eclectic night of music. THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS,

AT T H E C A N N O N C E N T E R F O R T H E P E R F O R M I N G A R T S

PRESENTED BY

|

THE ARTHUR F. AND ALICE E. ADAMS CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

NOVEMBER 21 - 23

NOVEMBER 6, 7:30 P.M.

JUNIE B. JONES THE MUSICAL Based on the popular children’s book by Barbara Park. THE CIRCUIT PLAYHOUSE, NOVEMBER 7–DECEMBER 20

THE THANKSGIVING PLAY White theater artists attempt to create a politically correct school play about the first Thanksgiving in this satirical comedy. THEATRE MEMPHIS, NOVEMBER 7–22 BOOKER T. JONES A legend among legends. BPACC, NOVEMBER 8, 7:30 P.M.

LAZER DIVAS VS. THE SKY PIRATES OF DESTINY Opera Memphis presents a laser show of historic diva clones and space pirates. PINK PALACE MUSEUM & MANSION, NOVEMBER 15, 7 P.M.

THE WIZARD OF OZ Follow the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy and friends. PLAYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE, NOVEMBER 15–DECEMBER 22

MEMPHIS SONGWRITERS SERIES HOSTED BY MARK EDGAR STUART Featuring Bailey Bigger, Talibah Safiya, and Lina Beach. HALLORAN CENTRE, NOVEMBER 20, 7 P.M.

A TUNA CHRISTMAS Two actors portray more than 20 characters in this satirical look at small-town life. CIRCUIT PLAYHOUSE, NOVEMBER 21–DECEMBER 21 NUTREMIX New Ballet Ensemble’s retelling of The Nutcracker. CANNON CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, NOVEMBER 21-23

CATAPULT A shadow-illusion performance. GPAC, NOVEMBER 22, 8 P.M.

ELISABETH VON TRAPP: HOME FOR CHRISTMAS Celebrate the holidays and the 60th anniversary of The Sound of Music with the granddaughter of Maria von Trapp. BPACC, NOVEMBER 22, 7:30 P.M. & JULIET A flip on the script of the greatest love story ever told. ORPHEUM THEATRE, NOVEMBER 25–30 IF SCROOGE WAS A BROTHER An urban spin of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. HATTILOO THEATRE, NOVEMBER 28-DECEMBER 21 HOLIDAY ARTS MARKET Featuring more than 30 local artists, makers, and small businesses. MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART, NOVEMBER 29, 10 A.M.-3 P.M.

20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ART OF DINING Novel celebrates 20 years of The Art of Dining with Joy Bateman. NOVEL, NOVEMBER 29, 2 P.M.

To suggest an event for future editions of Out and About, email ABIGAIL@MEMPHISMAGAZINE.COM.

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C L AS S I C

D I N I N G

A-Tan Restaurant

Named for an owner’s mother, this establishment offers customers a choice of both Japanese and Chinese cuisine.

BY MICHAEL DONAHUE

location near Braunfels. All are still owned by family members.

Chian’s mother helped out at the A-Tan on Poplar, Tristina says. “She was a really sweet lady, a really good cook. So is he.”

Tristina met Chian at A-Tan

Brandon Vo, Tristina and Chian Wen. right: Michael Donahue eating General Tso’s chicken.

S

omehow, my first visit to A-Tan Restaurant was just a few weeks ago. I’d heard about the place for years from family members; I just never went there. But now I’m glad I did.

Even two-time Oscar-winning actress Jessica Lange had been to A-Tan before me. She signed one of the curtains inside.

A-Tan is almost a two-in-one Asian restaurant. One side, with long wood-and-metal tables, features a Japanese hibachi menu with a chef’s center stage for slicing and dicing chicken, steak, shrimp, and vegetables. The other side — with red paper lanterns, plants, and a framed watercolor of red peonies (Mutan Garden, by Taiwanese artist Kwang Tao Dong) — offers Chinese cuisine at tables, booths, or at the full-service bar.

Tristina Wen, who owns the restaurant with her brother, Brandon Vo, tells me to make sure and add “Restaurant” after “A-Tan” in my story. Some people are confused when they come in, because, she says, “They thought it was a tanning place.”

The owner and her family are Vietnamese, but A-Tan doesn’t serve Vietnamese food. Wen doesn’t want to spread herself too thin with an overloaded menu.

Tristina’s husband, Chian Wen, named A-Tan after his

mother, the late A-Tan Ferguson, when he and his two sisters opened it in 1989. They had previously operated the Formosa restaurant on Summer Avenue near East Parkway. Opened in 1978, they sold that restaurant in 1990 later to Eddie Pao, who now owns Mosa Asian Bistro.

Before A-Tan, Chian worked with his mother and sisters at the old Peking restaurant in Poplar Plaza. There, they only served meat on skewers, including beef and chicken kabobs. But business wasn’t good, so they changed their selections to Chinese fare.

A few years or so after opening A-Tan on Poplar, Chian opened A-Tan East in Germantown. He sold that location in 1996 and opened Shogun in Poplar Plaza, but he had to change the name to “Shogu” because there already was a “Shogun” in Germantown.

He also opened A-Tan Buffet on Poplar Avenue at I-240.

In 2008, he branched out with locations in Texas, opening A-Tan Asian Bistro in New Braunfels. He later added one in San Marcos, Texas and a third

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next to A-Tan and opened the hibachi side in 2006.

Tristina doesn’t cook Chinese food, “because the wok is really heavy.” She does know how to make sushi, but her early efforts weren’t that great. Some of her initial rolls came out broken or greasy. “I feel sorry for my husband,” she says. “He had to test my sushi every day.”

Tristina also learned how to cook hibachi. Now, when needed, she works at the sushi bar and on the hibachi side.

Her philosophy? “You have to cook just the way you cook for yourself. All nice and clean.”

Their most popular items are General Tso’s chicken and sesame chicken.

Notable A-Tan customers have included basketball player Rudy Gay, former U of M coach John Calipari, former Mayor Jim Strickland, and former Shelby when she was 20 years old and County Mayor A C Wharton. a student at the University of Jessica Lange visited the Memphis. “I’d get food to go,” she says. “I love his hot and sour soup.” restaurant with the internationally known photographer While in college, she worked (and Memphis resident) Wilat Milwaukee Tool in Olive liam Eggleston, Tristina says.

Branch, Mississippi. She had to Eggleston, who was an A-Tan rush to get to A-Tan after work regular, posed for a photograph because she “was craving his with Tristina. Lange didn’t want hot and sour soup. I had to run to be photographed, but she down there before they close.”

Tristina began working for Chian autographed one of the curtains.

“Most of the customers we as a server in 2000 before moving have are regular customers,” up to cashier. She always kept an Tristina says, adding, “They all eye on what was going on in the know my husband. He’s been restaurant. “I want to know how in Memphis over 40 years.” to do everything.” She continued Tristina says she and Vo to work at the restaurant after she have no plans to open anothand Chian married 25 years ago. er restaurant. And she’s happy Tristina and Vo became co-ownwith A-Tan the way it is. ers when Chian retired in 2024.

“We’re not going to change They began selling sushi at anything,” she says. “Whatever A-Tan a few years after Shogu my husband created, we keep it shut down, Tristina says. Shogu the way it is. We want to keep customers missed the sushi, it original, and just make sure so they built a sushi bar. the quality stays good.”

Vo knew how to cook hibachi-style Japanese food because he had worked at Nagasaki A-Tan, 3445 Poplar Avenue in Inn. So Chian leased the space Dillard Square Shopping Center TOP PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHAEL DONAHUE; AUTHOR PHOTOGRAPH BY MADELYN GRAY

10/8/25 3:10 PM

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2025

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AS K

VA N C E

Sandy’s Drive-In

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

BY VANCE L AUDERDALE

DEAR VANCE: What happened to the burger joint called Sandy’s, located on South Highland? That was a popular

hangout with my friends when I was attending Memphis State in the early 1960s. — G.L ., MEMPHIS. DEAR G.L.: Have I mentioned to you (and my half-dozen other readers) my 2026 Vance Lauderdale Holiday Calendar? I’ve assembled fascinating old photos and added dozens of Memphis-related dates to the pages. And the best thing — besides the honorable “Vance Lauderdale” name emblazoned across the cover — is the cost. It’s FREE. You pay nothing extra if you renew your subscription to Memphis Magazine, or buy gift subscriptions for your friends and family. We’ll mail a calendar to every new subscriber.

(See our holiday subscription page in this issue, or visit memphismagazine. com/subscriptions for more information.)

Now, wait. I know you think this is a blatant self-promotion, but I’m getting to my point here, in my charming long-winded way. On the April 2026 page of that calendar is a wonderful photograph showing the employees of Whistle Bottling Company posing for the camera outside their headquarters on South Front Street. In the early 1900s, it seems, hundreds of bottling companies across America hoped to emulate the success of Coca-Cola by coming up with their own brands. In Memphis, it was Whistle, and their catchy slogan was “Just Whistle.” Unfortunately, the company didn’t survive, though old Whistle bottles and ads are very desirable collectibles.

In the 1960s, that same desire to “get rich quick” happened

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again, this time with burger joints hoping to follow the success of McDonald’s. Most people know that worldwide chain, now advertising “Billions and Billions Served,” started with two brothers, Richard and Maurice McDonald, operating a single restaurant in San Bernardino, California. That might be the end of the story — and my mention of it here — except for a fellow named Ray Kroc, who was urging the brothers to buy his milkshake machine. What caught his attention, though, was their “Speedee Service System” for preparing their simple menu, and the long line of customers stretching out the door. Very soon, Kroc had purchased the rights to the McDonald brothers’ name and operation, and with one restaurant in Des Plaines,

Illinois, began the worldwide empire that thrives to this day.

Okay, I haven’t forgotten that the question was about a place here called Sandy’s.

In 1956, four businessmen in Kewanee, Illinois, decided to jump on the McDonald’s bandwagon. I won’t bore you with their names, because they don’t really get involved in the Memphis venture. At any rate, they purchased the rights to open McDonald’s restaurants in the Midwest, opening the first one in Urbana, Illinois, and with two others in that state soon to follow.

Well, from what I can understand (it’s complicated), Ray Kroc had a problem with that. It seems their contract did say that could open other McDonald’s — but not in central Illinois — and there were other technical/legal issues that put a stop to this venture.

Unwilling to give up, the four entrepreneurs decided on a quick and easy solution: Even though their new eateries were almost carbon copies of McDonald’s, they simply changed their name to Sandy’s. I have no idea where they came up with the name; none of the original investors were named Sandy.

If you’ll pardon me for quoting from Wikipedia, “The chain adopted a Scottish-based theme to combat the Scottish-rooted McDonald’s, even though the latter was not based on a cultural theme of any kind.”

I bet this is the first time you learned that McDonald’s was “Scottish-rooted.”

Sandy’s wasn’t either, really.

It’s true they came up with a logo that featured a red-haired Scottish lassie, adorned in a tartan cap, sash, and kilt, but the menu was 100 percent American.

The buildings also had nothing Scottish about them; in fact, I’d

TOP PHOTO FROM LAUDERDALE ARCHIVES; YEARBOOK ADS COURTESY SHERWOOD JUNIOR HIGH AND KINGSBURY HIGH SCHOOL

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problem: With only called them “fast-food two stores, they had futuristic,” with large, limited revenues for outwardly slanted advertising. A search windows, bright panels through newspaper (usually red and white), archives here reveals jutting beams, and overonly postage-stampedhanging awnings on sized ads, mainly just all sides. There was no including their logo drive-thru; that innovaand addresses. They tion wouldn’t come for managed to place a few years. I’ve never located ads in local yearbooks a photo of the interior, (like this one from the so I can’t tell you about 1963 Sherwood Archer) that, but I understand but couldn’t afford the the employees wore tarfar more expensive tan tam-o-shanter caps radio and TV advertis— oh, the humiliation!

By 1960, Sandy’s ing that were drawing operated more than 40 customers to McDonrestaurants throughout alds, Kentucky Fried the Midwest, along Chicken, Burger King, with a few in Florida and other fast-food and Arizona. The first competitors. In short, one in Memphis — in Sandy’s was doomed.

The chain adopted a Scottish-based theme to Tennessee, for that By the late 1960s, combat the Scottish-rooted McDonald’s, even matter — opened in 1961 financial woes forced though the latter was not based on a cultural at 775 South Highland. them to close most theme of any kind. Sandy’s wasn’t either, The menu was very locations, included the limited, and the prices two Sandy’s here. In really. It’s true they came up with a logo that were incredibly low.

1971, in an attempt to featured a red-haired Scottish lassie, adorned Those Memphis State survive, they merged in a tartan cap, sash, and kilt, but the menu students had their with the growing was 100 percent American. choice of a 15-cent Hardee’s chain (yes, hamburger, a 19-cent named for a real person, 15 cents, and a fish sandwich for cheeseburger, a 10-cent bag of founder Wilbur Hardee). Some a quarter. Sandy’s was ahead French fries, a 20-cent milkshake of the Sandy’s reverted to of the pack with that item; (chocolate or vanilla), a soft individual ownership and held McDonald’s didn’t offer their drink for a dime, and something on throughout the Seventies. The Filet-o-Fish until two years later.

Sandy’s called “hot flips” (apple last one managed to stay open in Just as other fast-food or cherry) for 15 cents. Customers Winona, Minnesota, until 1989. outlets came up with catchy really had to be hungry to pay In Memphis another, rather names for their best-selling more than a dollar for lunch. unusual fast-food establishment products — McDonald’s Big In 1962, Sandy’s opened a moved into the former Sandy’s Mac and Burger King’s Whopper second location at 3592 Summer locations on Summer and Highimmediately come to mind — in and Sevier, a corner lot. What’s later years Sandy’s introduced land, called Arthur Treacher’s curious (to me, anyway) is that “The Scotsman” (their version Fish & Chips. Treacher (1894tiny newspaper ads revealed the of the Whopper) and the “Big 1975) was a well-known British full name of both establishments Scot” (a combo pack of double character actor who, in 1969, to be Sandy’s Thrift and Swift burger, fries, and shake). But decided to introduce Americans Drive-In — for those customers, despite tweaking their menu and to the British staple of codfish I presume, who still didn’t undervarious promotions, they simply and French fries, often served weren’t in the same league with from vendors’ carts in rolled-up stand the concept of fast food. the national corporations. newspapers. The stores here The next year, they expanded Sandy’s never opened other were a bit fancier than that, and their menu slightly, now offering locations here, so that caused a (despite the name) offered more a grilled-cheese sandwich for

than fish and fries. By the late 1970s, they had opened more than 800 stores from coast to coast. But the fast-food market is a notoriously fickle one, and today only four of Treacher’s Fish & Chips stores remain open.

The Memphis locations became home to other businesses.

On South Highland, a national chain called Catfish Station moved in, followed within a few years by a Jamaican restaurant called Spice of the Islands, then a Southern home-cooking place called Mojo’s. There may have been others I’m overlooking.

It was most recently El Puerto Mexican Restaurant.

But drive to 775 South Highland today and you’ll drive away still hungry. The site is now a vacant lot. The second Sandy’s location on Summer was demolished years ago; the newer building there, called Summer Place Center, is home to a half-dozen businesses: Belle Beauty Supply, Repeat Boutique, Yum’s Subs, and Pizza Hut among them.

Sandy’s is fondly remembered by many former customers.

Some of them have even set up a Facebook page called “Remembering Sandy’s Drive-In,” where they share photos, newspaper clippings, and stories of working or eating there. One post is fairly typical: “I have fond memories of eating at Sandy’s. That’s where I discovered the magic of dunking fries in a chocolate malt!”

Now, about that Vance Lauderdale 2026 Holiday Calendar ...

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 from time to time.

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B O O KS

In the Land of Storytellers

Thomas Dann weaves a web of injustice, crime, and hope in his debut novel, Midnight in Memphis.

BY JESSE DAVIS

“If you have a story that seems worth telling, and you think you can tell it worthily, then the thing for you to do is to tell it, regardless of whether it has to do with sex, sailors, or mounted policemen.”

I

—DASHIELL H A M MET T

n a new Southern noir novel to be released this month, racially motivated murders terrify and inflame the citizens of Memphis, circa 1955. Detective Burdette Vance is paired with Eustace Johnston, a new trainee and one of the few Black officers on the police force, and the two are handed a case that threatens to ignite long-smoldering tensions in a Memphis divided by racial injustice, where the old political structure is crumbling. Such is the setting of Thomas Dann’s debut novel, Midnight in Memphis (Crooked Lane Books).

“Growing up in the South, it’s a land of storytellers, and it’s something that I was always exposed to,” says Dann, a fifth-generation Memphian. “I loved telling stories and developed a reputation among everyone I know as a storyteller.”

At some point, the urge to tell a story of his own began to take hold. It was a feeling he just couldn’t shake, and after all, why should he? Dann is a voracious reader, a storyteller by inclination, and he has professional experience as a felony defense investigator and lawyer (more on that later) that lends itself to the careful construction of a realistic mystery novel. So he began researching his hometown during the 1950s. A good rule of thumb is to set a story during a period of change, and 1955 — with the burgeoning Civil Rights Movement, the dissolution of the Crump Era of Memphis politics, and the mixing of gospel, blues, and country that would herald the advent of rock-and-roll — was a veritable lightning rod for change in the Bluff City.

“I’m sitting here in my office right now,” Dann tells me over a lengthy and enjoyable phone interview, “looking at a shelf of books that’s maybe five feet across, and they’re all books like The Editorial We by [Edward John] Meeman, who was editor of the Memphis Press-Scimitar, From Boss Crump to King Willie [by Otis Sanford], and Beale Street Dynasty [by Preston Lauterbach].”

“I did so much research,” he says. “I know much more about Memphis from having written this book than I did from growing up there.”

ON WRITING, PACE, AND PLOT TWISTS

B

ecause Midnight in Memphis is a work of historical fiction, Dann had to adhere to an accurate and believable historical framework. Within the bounds of that setting, though, the author was free to follow his intuition as to who his characters are on a personal, human level. That, he says, is one of his favorite parts of the business of fiction-writing.

“It’s such an enjoyable process

to see these characters that you create take on a life of their own,” Dann says. “It’s a challenge, but it’s the kind of challenge that makes writing really fun.”

Of course, Dann is not only bound by the rules of the setting in which his story is set.

No matter how well-rounded its characters or lofty its literary aspirations, a novel must also engage the reader, inviting them to keep turning the pages. No less important, every genre has its own sets of tropes with which an author must engage, whether to subvert them or adhere to them.

That does not mean a piece of genre fiction must be formulaic — every mystery novel need not be a “whodunnit” in which the reader’s primary goal is to solve the mystery before the detective. There must actually be a mystery, though. Midnight in Memphis succeeds on all these levels.

Its character work is finely tuned, and the central mystery of the novel is sufficiently engaging to keep the pages turning. Its protagonists, Detective Vance and Officer Johnston, may fit into a familiar groove of “wise and weatherworn detective and upand-coming new recruit,” but Dann uses that trope to tease out elements of their characters, and to shine a light on the prevailing social structure of the time.

“I was just down in New Orleans at a conference called Bouchercon. It’s the world mystery writers conference,” Dann says. “I moderated a panel on the concept of plot twists and what drives them. Some people are very structured about it, but to me there’s an aspect of it that’s like, ‘When you get to a fork in the road, take it.’ I think that’s a Yogi Berra euphemism. What drives you to take one fork or the other is what feels right for that character, so it ends up being ultimately character-driven, and sometime after that you have to figure out where the plot goes. I feel that the plot needs to drive the development of the characters.”

Character work is of particular interest to Dann, but he never neglects the needs of a good mystery novel. The crimes are

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sufficiently grisly, the city’s political machine’s connections in unsavory places are not ignored, and the author makes sure to, as he says, keep the pace going.

“My editor had me take out one of my favorite scenes of the book because it interfered with the pace of the novel,” he admits.

“I took it out, and she was completely right. It ended up being a side part of the plot that had more to do with character development than driving the plot forward, and it made me realize how you have to balance those two things.”

Murder is not only the catalyzing action of Midnight in Memphis; Dann had to take such time-tested writing advice as “murder your darlings” to ensure that his story worked on all levels.

IF I HAD A HAMMER

M

idnight in Memphis is a

marriage of Dann’s interests, he confesses. The author is a self-proclaimed student of history — whose research tools for his debut novel run the gamut of the well-known books about the Bluff City and also include others about the Mississippi River, Native American prehistory, and more — as well as a staunch lover of fiction. In his debut novel, he juggles those two interests with seeming ease, also drawing on his history, both professional and personal, to make a fictional representation of his home town that feels authentic and richly atmospheric.

“My family goes back to the 1830s in Memphis,” Dann recalls. “When you get into the twentieth century and the rise and domination of the Crump political machine, my parents in the ’40s and ’50s were very much involved in trying to bring a two-party system into play.

In any society like that, there’s a Faustian bargain that people enter into. Boss Crump made the streetcars run on time. He got public works things done, all those good things, but at the same time he was very oppressive in terms of how he ran his political regime, with swift retribution for those that opposed him. That kind of thing AUTHOR PHOTOGRAPH BY BERYL DANN

018_2025_MM11_BOOKS_v02.indd 19

seems very current these days.”

At first glance, such a setting, that particular variety of autocratic, domineering political landscape might appear to be a dreary world in which to set a story. As Dann rightly points out, though, it is during such desolate periods and places that inspiration is most urgently needed.

“It’s a period of change, but whenever there’s a period of change there’s also a period of hope. Hope and resistance. Those are the two things that come into conf lict with each other,” he says. “It was a fascinating time to think about.”

Dann draws on five generations of family history of political involvement in Memphis to inform the novel, alongside the aforementioned wealth of reference material.

When he was younger, long before Midnight in Memphis, Dann decided that he would attend law school and become a criminal defense attorney. “While I was in law school, and for some time before and after, I worked as an investigator for a felony defense unit in the D.C. Public Defender’s Office. I would get to the crime scene and they hadn’t washed the blood off the sidewalk yet,” he remembers.

He could see what that experience of a frequent proximity with crime and those individuals accused of committing crimes was doing to his contemporaries, and he began to rethink his options.

He couldn’t help but wonder if he really wanted those associations to be his steady diet of humanity.

For a time, the young Dann defended cases in Maryland on Thursdays and prosecuted cases in Arlington, Virginia, across the river on Fridays, so he got a chance to see what both experiences entailed. He says that he surprised himself by realizing that he found the experience of being a prosecutor more rewarding.

“These were minor crimes, of course, because I was still in law school. It was almost like doing social work with a hammer,” Dann says. “You get people who have somehow messed up in their lives and you negotiate a plea

deal with them, and you’ve got something hanging over them to try to get them to straighten their lives out.”

Whether defending, prosecuting, or investigating, he was able to sample humanity in a fashion not often afforded to professionals outside the legal profession.

Those experiences would one day be beneficial in the writing of his novel. At least with a fictional mystery, however, the blood on the sidewalk existed only in his imagination.

WALKING IN MIDNIGHT IN MEMPHIS

O

n a stakeout in Dann’s novel, Vance and Johnston are positioned between the two primary social poles of Memphis — The Peabody and Beale Street.

Their geographic location works as a parallel for Memphis of the time, a city in which the cultural, recreational, and business hub for Black citizens existed just two blocks from the hotel lobby where white society congregated. The two locations held a huge cultural significance for two distinct populations in Memphis and the surrounding rural Mid-South, but rarely did those groups intermingle. That reality had already begun to shift, though. In Midnight in Memphis, as in the true history of the Bluff City, that social barrier has begun to be more permeable, hinting at future changes and a better future for all Memphis’ citizens.

“There is a certain body of thought that I shouldn’t even be writing a novel like this. I don’t really agree with that,” Dann says. “What I’m trying to write is something that is very hopeful. I try to hold onto the hope that things have the capacity to get better, that people have the capacity to be better.”

That longed-for ray of hope permeates Midnight in Memphis, but so too do old hurts and aging social structures that threaten its survival. As in the real world, moneyed interests and loopholes in the law regulate the ebb and flow of social change. Without giving away spoilers, as in all good mysteries, there are personal and financial motivations at

play. Banks are powerful entities bent on outlasting social orders, and even the novel’s seemingly innocent players hope to benefit from legalities that govern the city — such as the “interstate commerce and all that,” which governs potential money-making ventures such as f loating riverboat casinos. Through it all, Dann weaves a thread of character growth of the tension between the predictability and uncertainty of humanity.

“Burdett always thought that faith in human nature is a fickle thing. People may think that they know you through and through, but it turns out that there was a deep dark part of you that they did not know at all,” Dann writes in Midnight in Memphis. “He wondered sometimes what shock and surprise a victim must feel in his last dying thoughts, because no one who dies at the hand of someone they know really thought the other person had it in him to pull the trigger or plunge the knife.”

The author is possessed of a knack for a hard-hitting turn of phrase, and his punchy prose carries the reader through the novel.

When picking up a mystery novel, this humble book reviewer’s tastes usually tend toward hardboiled crime fiction and California noir, Dann’s Midnight in Memphis is a well-crafted Southern noir that should delight any fans of the genre.

Thomas Dann will launch his new novel Midnight in Memphis with a book-signing event at Novel bookstore on Tuesday, November 18, at 6 p.m.

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C I T Y

J O U R N A L

Don’t Box out Boxtown

The neighborhood founded in South Memphis by formerly enslaved people has for generations been where local government’s promises go to die. In 2025 and beyond, will history repeat itself?

BY TOM JONES

A

s late as 1979, 11 years after Boxtown residents began paying city taxes in the first of two annexations, the Memphis Press-Scimitar reported that the area still had dirt roads, no public transportation, and many houses lacked indoor plumbing, water, and electricity.

Income for more than half of the households in the predominantly Black neighborhood was less than $3,000 a year and the Post Office did not deliver mail to individual homes.

The news report featured a photograph from 1961 showing two Black men — in the shadow of the $123 million TVA power plant — collecting wood in a horse-drawn cart to heat their homes and cook their meals.

Boxtown became part of Memphis in two annexations, in 1968 and in 1971. It took a federal class-action lawsuit in 1975 by Legal Services director and future Memphis mayor A C Wharton Jr. to force city government to live up to its annexation promises for services like fire and police, sewer lines, streetlights and signs, and speed limits. City government, in turn, promised $3.7 million in improvements over three years as settlement to the lawsuit. But by the early 1980s, residents still lacked indoor plumbing and standard municipal services.

When city government received a $12 million federal grant for urban renewal a few years later, only $1.7 million was directed to Boxtown — although it was called the poorest neighborhood in Memphis by both city and federal officials.

This history foreshadows the announcement by Mayor Paul Young and City Council that 25 percent of the taxes received from Elon Musk’s xAI’s Colossus supercomputing facility will be spent in the area. Some news media reported that Boxtown would be targeted for the money

as mitigation for health problems caused by pollution, and to address decades of neglect.

That was not the case. In a shrewd political move to get maximum support from city council members, Young said the new tax revenue would be spent within a five-mile radius of Boxtown,

xAI will produce $13 million in city taxes in its first year, and Boxtown deserves unfettered attention. It’s been largely ignored since it began as a community of formerly enslaved people and when it became part of Memphis a century later. a sweep of land which includes Whitehaven and Westwood.

The tax-sharing idea achieved its goal of tamping down the intensity of the opposition to xAI. Boxtown is roughly one square mile and is home to about 3,000 people. The five-mile radius (for the tax revenue) comprises about 35 square miles with 43,764 people (the 38109 ZIP code is used as the proxy by city government). Once again, the risk is that Boxtown’s needs will be swamped as city government is lobbied by larger neighborhoods with more political clout.

Here’s the thing: xAI will produce $13 million in city taxes in its first year, and Boxtown

deserves unfettered attention.

It’s been largely ignored since it began as a community of formerly enslaved people and when it became part of Memphis a century later. Its name points to its humble beginnings when railroad workers dumped timbers and planks there, and residents used the scraps to build shanties just below the railroad lines.

For the new xAI tax money, city government created an online survey so the public could weigh in on priorities. As for Boxtown, where some families likely live in the digital desert, rather than an online survey, city government should gather their opinions in door-to-door interviews. The people of Boxtown deserve special attention in return for generations of neglect, and after all, their opposition inspired city government to think of the 25 percent proposal in the first place.

It has been no secret that Boxtown residents face serious health risks. A 2013 University of Memphis study found the cancer risk for residents to be four times the national average due to airborne carcinogens. In 2021, the American Lung Association gave Shelby County a grade of “F” for its history of locating polluting industries near African-American neighborhoods.

State representative Justin Pearson said African Americans are 75 percent more likely to live near toxic hazardous waste facilities — there are at least 18 in South Memphis — and African Americans as a result have higher cancer rates.

Located near Boxtown are some of the region’s largest emitters of hazardous chemicals: Tennessee Valley Authority’s Allen Combined Cycle Plant, Valero Memphis Refinery, and Nucor Steel.

And yet, the nearest air monitoring station is nine miles away in downtown Memphis near St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Four others are even farther away. There is no air monitoring station anywhere in South Shelby County. While Young has carved out 25 percent of the new xAI taxes, Shelby County government has remained silent about how it will use its new tax money.

Shelby County government is responsible for air-monitoring stations, and the stations’ placement suggest county government really doesn’t want the definitive answer about South Memphis pollutants. It should use some of its new tax revenues to find the answer. Memphis Community Against Pollution has announced it will pay $250,000 for nine air-quality monitoring devices in Memphis but Shelby County should take responsibility.

Meanwhile, the Shelby County Health Department could conduct personal interviews with each household to determine any health issues and follow up with a plan of action to address them.

While most of the news coverage has centered on the City of Memphis, Shelby County has a crucial role to play in Boxtown.

Meanwhile, Boxtown is in a familiar position: wait and see. Will the neighborhood get the concentrated attention it is owed — or will this be yet another bait and switch?

Tom Jones is the principal of Smart City Consulting, which specializes in strategic communications, public policy development, and strategic planning.

He tends the 20-year-old Smart City Memphis blog and is an author with experience in local government.

He can be reached at tjones@ smartcityconsulting.com

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LO CA L

T R E AS U R E S

God Willing and the Creeks Don’t Rise At 90, Dale Sanders is hiking the Appalachian Trail.

All 2,199 miles of it.

B Y

A N N A

T R AV E R S E

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River

TON

NAL

FOREST

60

Rive

a

r

in i

Tu r np

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Bastian

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WEST

VIRGIN

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19 460

IA

Groseclose

Cherokee Lake

c

en

Riv e

River Holsto n

ad B ro en

Fr

R

P a rk

Max Patch Mtn

64 40

Mt Guyot 6621ft 2018m

23 74

Charlies Bunion

321

e se es

e Te nn

ss e

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23 441

N

5499ft 1676m

RT

64

L IN RO C A G IA R EO

H

17 75

76

CHATTAHOOCHEE access trail

h

Riv

ATHENS

Lake Sidney Lanier

19

ne

985

e

53

20

Gainesville

3782ft 1153m

Amicalola Falls

GEORGIA R iv

575 59 75 411

MARIETTA

a tt a h

ooch

ee

78

er

20

Ch

Chickamauga and Chattanooga NMP

ALABAMA

Savan na

78

72

Dahlonega

Carters Lake

53

OL INA GIA

co

3290ft 1003m

OR

AR

O

52

GE

85

Mt Oglethorpe State Park 5

72

H C

23

Springer Mtn

FOREST

UT

129 19

NATIONAL

411

SO

GEORGIA APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB

Suches

Blue Ridge

75

Ninety Six NHS

Hartwell Lake

76

R

E SE ES IA N N RG TE EO G

R i v er

Neels Gap

4458ft 1359m

5

a

178

NANTAHALA HIKING CLUB

4430ft 1350m

Blairsville

Vogel State Park Blood Mtn

64 74

er

72

lu d

Tray Mtn

76 19 129

NATIONAL FOREST

Sa 123

Dicks Creek Gap

Murphy

CHEROKEE

R iv

26

85

A

G

Clayton

129

TENNESSEE

SOUTH

CAROLINA

64

74

CHATTANOOGA

O

NATIONAL FOREST Bly Gap 19

Chickamauga Lake

SPARTANBURG

178

Franklin

5342ft 1628m

Robbinsville Standing Indian NANTAHALA

411

75

26

25

385

Wesser

129

R iv e r

ad

GREENVILLE

64

SMOKY MOUNTAINS HIKING CLUB

Fontana Lake

nn

ttle

A L IN A R O L IN Cowpens NB CA RO A H 221 RT H C NO UT SO

Carl Sandburg Home NHS

PISGAH NATIONAL FOREST

Cherokee Clingmans 74 Dome 6643ft Bryson City 2025m

Stecoah Gap

Li

Ri v er 74

ASHEVILLE

Wayah Bald

Te

ge 9

er

4629ft 1411m

40

77

Kings Mountain NMP

74 85

R iv

o

h

40

CHARLOTTE

Shelby

19 23

25 70

HotB r o a d Springs

Davenport Gap

Newfound Gap

Lake Norman

GASTONIA

40

Lake James

441 Gatlinburg 5375ft 1638m 321

411

HICKORY

Grandfather Mtn 5837ft 1779m

TENNESSEE EASTMAN HIKING CLUB

19 E

Big Bald Mt Mitchell 6684ft 5516ft 2037m 1681m

23

208

h

Newport

411

ba

Roan High

PISGAH Knob NATIONAL6285ft FOREST 1916m FOR

19 W

CAROLINA MOUNTAIN CLUB

70

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

85

Statesville

CAROLINA R iver

Spivey Gap

Fr

25 70

Maryville

c Clin

cky

r

40

ch Sevierville

129

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81

140

R iver

11 E

N o li

KNOXVILLE

r Rive Andrew Johnson NHS Greeneville

77

NORTH

421

321

19 E

CHEROKEE NATIONAL FOREST

Erwin

High Rock Lake

Br

Norris Lake

11E 321

93

25 E

321

23

81 11 W

Boone

Laurel Fork Gorge

19 E

181

JOHNSON CITY

75

B l ue

Nor th Elizabethton KINGSPORT

23 58

IA IN S E E G ES V IR N N TE

Watauga Lake

Yad kin

F or k

421

BRISTOL South Holston 11E Lake 19

58 421

23

KE NT V IR U C G IN K Y IA

Damascus

81

73 74

River 421

R id

er Ri v on lst

r

Ho

R ive

Clinch

58

Cumberland Gap NHP

Grayson Highlands State Park

19

ALT

in

Mt Rogers

HIGH POINT

dk

KENTUCKY

40 85

40

Ya 58

Marion

MT. ROGERS APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB

5729ft 1746m

BURLINGTON

220

H

WINSTON-SALEM

PIEDMONT APPALACHIAN TRAIL HIKERS Atkins

19

29

A

GREENSBORO

IA

460

I

RT

O

IA LIN RO CA

IN

77

Wytheville

Burkes Garden

RG

Guilford Courthouse NMP

52

OUTDOOR CLUB AT VIRGINIA TECH INIA

V

58

Bland

PIEDMONT APPALACHIAN TRAIL HIKERS

KY

81

JE

FF

OUTDOOR CLUB AT VIRGINIA TECH

River

TUC

Claytor Lake State Park

SO ER

te

DANVILLE 220

ROANOKE APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB

460

ot

IA JERSEY

ROANOKE APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB Newport BLACKSBURG

460

OUTDOOR CLUB AT VIRGINIA TECH Pearisburg

77

T V IRG

GEO

ST

Bluestone Lake

Bluestone NSR

i ke

Cat aw

rg

58

58 360

way

Vi

360

Booker T. Washington NM

L

19

est

oke

29

ROANOKE

3197ft 974m

NA

W

CHARLESTON

an

VIRGINIA

Smith Mountain Lake

New Castle McAfee Knob

64

New River Gorge National River New

R

Kanawh a

Riv e Ro

460

Daleville

64

TIO

El

Gauley River NRA

Guya nd

Peaks of Otter

Blackhorse Gap

NA

k

LYNCHBURG

NF Covington

ve r

Ap

Appomattox 460 Court House NHP

NATURAL BRIDGE APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB

JEFFER

220

Ri

360

po

29

60

SON

y

4063ft 1238m

60

Glasgow

FORE

G

le

TIDEWATER APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB The Priest

r

au

81

Lexington

A S HIN GTON NF RGE W

N AT I O

19

79

er Ri v

es Ja m

Reeds Gap

64

220

Riv e r

60

CHARLOTTESVILLE 29

OLD DOMINION APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB

64

STAUNTON

64

enbrier Gre

R i v er

522

River

Calf Mtn

WEST

KEN

Rockfish Gap

2974ft 906m

VIRGINIA

Sutton Lake

64

Shenandoah National Park

Waynesboro

340

79

RICHMOND

33

D ri v e

Ri

GE

Harrisonburg

250

WES

29

ne

81

33

220

95 522 15

S k yli

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er

GEOR

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Ri v

Monongahe l

TON

Big Meadows

Pot

e

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Tygart Lake

CLARKSBURG

Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP

29

522

Skyland

Luray

ch

Ch

a

ER

River

R a p p a h a nnock

211

SHING

B r an

D N IA L A IN R Y IR G V T

ES

at

522

RIV

P O TO MAC George Washington Birthplace NM

Fredericksburg

17

m

P H N al

ik e np ur

220

50

B

IA

68

KE

N

G E O R G E WA

A

h

LV

Soutt

SY

A

N

W

N

Front Royal

M

PE

95

Prince William Ashby Gap 66 Sky Meadows State Park Forest Park G.R. Thompson State Wildlife Management Area Linden

River

50

220

MORGANTOWN

EA

50

522

81

R

c

Manassas NBP

Snickers Gap

WINCHESTER

ma

15

7

Berryville

40 68

40

AP

a

Poto

Harpers Ferry NHP

oah and

C h es

Ferry

340

WEST VIRGINIA VIRGINIA

WASHINGTON iver D . C .

Gathland State Park

67

522

50

AY

Washington Monument State Park 270

ALT 40

Antietam NB Harpers

Martinsburg

Appalachian Trail Conservancy

ke

ANNAPOLIS

FREDERICK

n She

CUMBERLAND

a pe

95

70

POTOMAC APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB

70

70

ia

ES

Catoctin Mountain Park South Mountain State Park

22

an

50

Waynesboro HAGERSTOWN Greenbrier State Park

sylv

CH

Fayetteville

301

B A LT I M O R E

MARYLAND

16

30

Penn

Prettyboy Reservoir

Gettysburg Gettysburg NMP Eisenhower NHS Liberty Reservoir

Caledonia State Park

T

1

MOUNTAIN CLUB OF MARYLAND

76

Johnstown Flood NM

LA AN N IA D

SY

30

15

Gardners Pine Grove Furnace State Park

Michaux State Forest 522

219

N 83

White Rocks 94 34

81

Y

Carlisle Boiling Springs

R

Churchtown

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R iv e r

LV

YORK

95

D E L AWA R E

q u eh a n n a

A

S us

Mechanicsburg

CUMBERLAND VALLEY APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB

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LANCASTER

76

YORK HIKING CLUB

M

81

HARRISBURG

Allegheny Portage Railroad NHS

ve

NEW

225

ALTOONA

r

WILMINGTON

1

30

11 15

22 322

Duncannon New Bloomfield

JOHNSTOWN

PHILADELPHIA

10

MOUNTAIN CLUB OF MARYLAND

22

176

222

422 Valley Forge River NHP ill Hopewell Furnace NHS

Swatara Gap 72 LEBANON

SUSQUEHANNA APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB 522

ylk

BLUE MOUNTAIN EAGLE CLIMBING CLUB

209

Rausch Gap

80

hu

Delaware Ri

422

Sc

N

R iv 220

West B

READING

183

Swatara State Park

15

POTTSTOWN

61

ch Susq u ehanna ran

79

476

78

Hamburg

Port Clinton

PE

Susqu eh an

er

WILLIAMSPORT

Fort Necessity NB

PENNS

ALLENTOWN HIKING CLUB

309 81

na

r np i ke

Ri v er

ALLENTOWN

80

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary 180

Friendship Hill NHS

Y LVA N

BLUE MOUNTAIN EAGLE CLIMBING CLUB

(state game land shown along trail)

70 76

BETHLEHEM

PHILADELPHIA TRAIL CLUB

Lehigh Gap

P E N N S Y LVA N I A

N e w J ersey Tu

TRENTON

22

15

JERSEY

EASTON

DELAWARE VALLEY CHAPTER APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB

n

15

ELIZABETH

WILMINGTON TRAIL CLUB

Stroudsburg

380

WILKES-BARRE

287

Worthington State Forest

Delaware Water Gap

6

D

Culvers 15 Gap Delaware Water Gap NRA

K i t t a t i nn y

Lake Wallenpaupack

476

YORK

NEWARK

Stokes State Forest

209 106

NEW

23

206 84

81

UN

YORK NEW JERSEY NEW Abram S. Hewitt State Forest 87

Wawayanda State Park Vernon 284 PATERSON High Point State Park

High Point

6

STAMFORD

Bear Mountain–Harriman State Park 17A

Unionville Port Jervis

Ri ve r

S

LA

IS

R iv

na u e ha n S usq

Hudson Highlands State Park

87

84

ar e

NEW HAVEN

15

17

MIDDLETOWN

Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River

T

A SS EC A C T IC H U U SE T T

y

Neversink Reservoir

NEW YORK–NEW JERSEY TRAIL CONFERENCE De l aw 1

81

River

s a t o nic

Lake Candlewood

Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park

44

17

RK IA O N Y A LV EW Y N NS N PE

Ho u

Pawling

Depot Hill State Forest POUGHKEEPSIE Weir Farm NHS BRIDGEPORT CON N. 9 N.Y. 684

209

Pepacton Reservoir

44

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e

Ashokan Reservoir Vanderbilt Mansion NHS Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt NHS Eleanor Roosevelt NHS

88

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at

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87

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St

H

NEW

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22

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Macedonia Brook State Park

6

N

M

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WATERBURY

7

ND

CONNECTICUT CHAPTER APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB

UTICA

W

HARTFORD

2602ft 793m

LO

at St 20

ELMIRA

C

Tyringham Barkhamsted Beartown State Forest Reservoir East Mountain State Forest 44 Mt Everett

23

NEW

ha

7

Great Barrington

x

Th

r

90

Mt Everett State Reservation Falls Sages Ravine 4 Village 9 Mohawk State Forest Salisbury Housatonic State Forest Housatonic Meadows State Park Cornwall Bridge

e

wk

20

Martin Van Buren NHS

84

CONNECTICUT

90

Lee

ALBANY

r

ay

SPRINGFIELD

BERKSHIRE CHAPTER APPALACHIAN 8

395

HOLYOKE

Dalton MOUNTAIN CLUB October Mountain State Forest

S TT SE HU RK AC YO A SS W NE

uw

TROY

RHODE ISLAND

N

M E V

3491ft 1064m

PITTSFIELD

M

Rive

9

Mt Greylock

2

k Yo r

90

Clarksburg State Forest North Adams

Mt Greylock State Reservation Cheshire

SCHENECTADY

Quabbin Reservoir

91

atto

Great Sacandaga Lake

146

H

U

WORCESTER

MASSACHUSETTS

2

8

7

495

2

R

Riv

Saratoga NHP

Harriman Reservoir

FOREST

7

ITHACA

ri

Minute Man NHP

ut t ic 9

3748ft 1142m

Bennington 87

BOSTON

495

Concord

Brattleboro

Stratton Mtn NATIONAL

Glastenbury Mtn

much longer, especially if you’re Dale Sanders — everything makes sense.

LOWELL

3

9

ec

Manchester

Indian Lake

BINGHAMTON

ack

NASHUA

nn

RK

MOUNTAIN Lake George

n

Mo

Just this, here: this earth, this moment. For a day — or for longer, maybe

95

HAVERHILL

KEENE

GREEN

7

er

Cayuga Lake

495

93

m

Riv

Hapgood State Forest

w Ne

moving cars or lightning-bolt emails; there are no more cars or emails.

ke PORTSMOUTH

MANCHESTER

202

91

GREEN MOUNTAIN CLUB

4

Schroon Lake

17

Tu r n p i

Co

NT

YO

O

W

RM

NE

VE

103 11

90

au

CONCORD

4235ft 1290m

Wallingford

d so

Sp

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Moose Mtn

Rutland

Hu

the earth, and the earth never more part of you. There are no more fast-

Laconia 93

Lebanon Sunapee Woodstock Lake Saint-Gaudens NHS Marsh-Billings10 4 Rockefeller NHP Sherburne Pass Killington Peak

Calvin Coolidge State Forest

87

Long Lake

E 16

DARTMOUTH OUTING CLUB

Lyme

95

IR

89

89

Les Newell 12 WMA GREEN 107 MOUNTAIN NATIONAL Kent Pond FOREST Gifford Woods State Park

7

H

Hanover

Warren

AM PL AI N

E

M

CH

IN PS

3240ft 988m

Barre

BURLINGTON

KE

2911ft 887m

A

M

Lake Winnipesaukee

25 Newfound Smarts Mtn Lake

Mt Cube

VERMONT

100

LA

4830ft 1472m

91

Montpelier

A

O M NT A SS A

Mt Mansfield 4393ft 1339m

M H

Ossipee

Mt Moosilauke Squam Lake Glencliff

10

2

Stowe

104

EW

NATIONAL FOREST North Woodstock

Kinsman Notch

100

15

St. Albans

N

5249ft 1600m

93

TIC

t

St. Johnsbury

flowing to your lungs, to your blood cells: You are never more part of

PORTLAND

WHITE APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB MOUNTAIN Gorham Carter Dome NATIONAL Sebago Lake FOREST Pinkham Notch 4832ft 1473m

AT L A N

ctic u

15

89

302

Mt Washington Glen Mount Washington State Park 6288ft 1917m Crawford Notch State Park North Conway 2 302 Moore 3 WHITE MOUNTAIN Reservoir Mt Lafayette

91

EC T EB ON M

ER

95

117

N E SE W T T HA S

U

N U V

ne

OCE

S C IT AN ED A D ST A A TE

on

er Riv

26

Goose Eye Mtn 3794ft 1156m

Berlin

River

Q

495

n gi og

Lake Memphremagog

26

Grafton Notch State Park

C

10

Baldpate Mtn 3812ft 1162m

898m

Umbagog Lake

55

An d

4

sc

SHERBROOKE

Bemis Mtn 2923ft Elephant Mtn 891m 3774ft Old Blue Mtn 1150m 3600ft Mooselookmeguntic Lake 1097m 2 16Wyman Mtn Andover 2945ft

ro

W E NE HIR S MP EC EB QU

3

SH

HA

112

dappled light takes on a holy quality. Steps cease to be arduous,

whispers across your skin, rustles your collar, and you can feel the oxygen

27

Saddleback Mtn

16

Rangeley Rangeley Lake

257

Skowhegan

201 16

Carrabassett Valley

4150ft 1265m

27

generated by an hour or four on a hiking trail. The forest’s

and one’s legs move without strain; the air is buoyant as water. The breeze

2

Caratunk

Mt Bigelow 161

er

MAINE

QUEBEC

QUEBEC

Bald Mtn 2630ft 802m

MAINE APPALACHIAN TRAIL CLUB

112

3

Riv

MAINE

16

bec

201

Acadia National Park

Ellsworth

1

ALT

15

Monson

6 15

K e n ne

6 15

173

BANGOR

Sebec Lake

n the really good days, there’s a specific euphoria

Chattahoochee River NRA

Lake Oconee

AT L A N TA

er

{[

hen he was 80 years old, in the summer of 2015, Dale Sanders — trail name: Greybeard — launched a yellow canoe named Anna into the headwaters of the Mississippi River at Lake Itasca, Minnesota. Paddling alone, and traveling around 30 miles a day, three months later he reached the river’s confluence with the Gulf of Mexico, just south of Venice, Louisiana. He was the oldest person ever to have completed the 2,340mile journey, from source to sea, although his record wouldn’t stand for long.

Two years later, at 82, Sanders hiked the entirety of the Appalachian Trail (AT) — all 2,199 miles of various terrain, stretching across the crests and through the vales of the Appalachian Mountains from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. Certified by Guinness, he was the oldest person to have completed the trek — though that record would fall soon, too.

At 85, Sanders became the oldest person to hike the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim trail — a strenuous journey involving steep descents and arduous climbs.

At 87 — his Mississippi River age record having been broken — Sanders, not one to stop moving, again paddled the length of the Mighty Mississippi, reclaiming the record for himself.

Since Sanders’ first AT hike, a fellow journeyer, Meredith Eberhart — better known by his trail name, Nimblewill Nomad — claimed the age record, at 83. Sanders helped him do it, supporting him along the trail just as, this fall, Nimblewill is supporting Greybeard.

This fall, Greybeard is spending his days traversing the peaks and ridges of the AT once again. He’s 90 years old now, though you wouldn’t know it to watch his movements, deft and spritely. “God willing and the creeks don’t rise again,” as he is fond of saying, he will retake the world record for being the oldest person to complete the Appalachian Trail within a year.

T

{[

he day before he drives to the trailhead at Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia — more on his chosen route shortly — I sit with Greybeard on the porch of the home in Bartlett he shares with his wife, Meriam. (The couple share three grown children and two grandchildren.) Deer amble through the open yard as we speak, and the bright, hot day dissolves the ice cubes in two water goblets.

Sanders snacks from a bowl of pistachios — he credits strong nutrition as a key factor to his active longevity.

By now, his 20-year-old, silver-painted Chevy Silverado is mostly packed. The truck bed is specially fitted with a camper — Sanders’ “Base Camp on Wheels” — that offers neatly organized storage for the gear he’ll need, as well as, crucially, a small but cozy bed for sleeping. Team members will drive the truck along the way, so that, most nights, Sanders will be able to rest comfortably — and so that he won’t have to carry a crushingly heavy pack into the backwoods. In some places, based on the route, there won’t be a location where he can meet the truck for a day or two, and he will need to provision accordingly.

The plan is to complete the hike in a manner known as the “flip-flop”: Instead of beginning at either the southernmost or northernmost point on the AT, Sanders has opted to begin roughly in the middle, at Harper’s Ferry. (To count as a complete hike of the AT, one’s GPS device must show each mile logged within 365 days — but the route does not need to be continuous.) This fall, he’s hiking south, he says, “to follow the color of the trees, and hopefully a little warm weather, to Springer Mountain.”

He doesn’t pretend to know exactly where he might find himself on any given day, along the way, but his intention is to reach Springer Mountain by December 10th. To do this, he’ll need to average between 12 and 14 miles daily, with some “zero days” mixed in — a zero day being

Kennesaw Mountain NBP

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LOCAL TREASURES

a rest day, i.e., one with zero miles logged.

In the spring, he will start walking again at Mount Katahdin, in Maine, and hike south until he arrives back at Harper’s Ferry — ending at the beginning. He will have skipped a mile — the only one he plans to skip the entire hike — at Harper’s Ferry, and he’ll hike it at the end, as a celebration, with family, friends, media, everybody.

A

First proposed in 1921 and completed in 1937, the 2,199-mile Appalachian Trail is considered the world’s longest hikingonly trail. Stretching from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine, it passes through 14 states. Hikers enjoy an astonishing range of views and trails, journeying

through dense old-growth forests or standing atop rocky peaks that offer views for miles. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome in the Smoky Mountains is the highest elevation.

A “through-hiker” like Sanders must complete the AT in a 365-day period, though it can be done in segments, tracking progress by GPS.

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{[

ccording to the CDC, the average American man lives 78.4 years. Sanders turned 90 in June.

Only 20-25 percent of through-hikers manage to complete the Appalachian Trail. Sanders has done it once already and is well on his way to a second successful attempt.

So what well of vitality has this man tapped?

Longevity science suggests that many of the choices that come naturally to Sanders have benefited his life span and activity span. He’s been physically energetic for all his life — and moderate, regular exercise has been shown substantially to lower the incidence of multiple mortality risks, most especially cardiovascular disease. According to the American Medical Association, a 30-year study showed how increased physical activity led to prolonged life expectancies. One of Greybeard’s mottos: Keep moving.

Meanwhile, an 80 -year-long study, conducted at Harvard and funded by the National Institutes of Health, found how solid, grounding relationships can enhance longevity. “Close relationships, more than money or fame, are what keep people happy throughout their lives,” reports the Harvard Gazette. “Those ties protect people from life’s discontents, help to delay mental and physical decline, and are better predictors of long and happy lives than social class, IQ, or even genes.”

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY DALE SANDERS

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And Greybeard? Well, this is someone who aided another hiker in breaking his own record — and that hiker is now, in turn, aiding him. He cares for people. In fact, the basement level of his and Meriam’s home is designed to care for fellow adventurers: When folks are paddling the Mississippi, they have an open invitation to crash in a comfortable place for a night. The walls leading down to the basement are crowded with signatures from weary river voyagers. For someone who engages in solitary-seeming activities, the man is surrounded by community. The hike he’s undertaking right now would not be possible without the devotion of people surrounding him.

T

{[

he best way to train for a very, very long hike, Sanders says, is simply … hiking. He doesn’t prepare through some elaborate cross-training regimen; there’s an appealing simplicity to his approach: Just keep moving.

Sanders' Chevy Silverado, driven by other team members, offers a cozy place for sleeping and for storing extra gear.

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Starting in January, he trained for the AT hike by scrambling up the hills and dales of Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, in Millington. Local outdoor enthusiasts know Shelby Forest for its surprisingly steep scrambles — Sanders can log a couple thousand feet of elevation change if he repeats the Woodland Trail twice in a day. Sometimes, he starts early, with a headlamp, because “there are so many armadillos in there. It’s unbelievable. You won’t see them in the daytime, though.”

Closer to his home is International Harvester Park, which offers shorter trails but still some scrambling; he’s been known to repeat a one-mile loop 10 times in a row.

Just keep moving.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY DALE SANDERS

10/16/25 10:26 AM

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anders spent 57 years working in parks and recreation. He was a lifeguard, growing up, then joined the Navy at 21, and went to boot camp in San Diego, California. Because he was already an experienced lifeguard and first-aid instructor, he was assigned to work at the naval hospital in Oakland, where he was put in charge of the swimming pool, for use primarily by amputees and sailors with other handicaps. Later, he led the SCUBA program for the Navy at

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the base on Okinawa. When he eventually left the Navy, he continued working in parks and recreation — at one time, he led about one thousand employees. He spent a lifetime in nature, around rivers, lakes, and woods, places where people go to find their centers.

He says working in parks for all those years put him around people “in their leisure time, the time they’re the happiest. I believe that molded my personality to be happy.”

By the time he retired, in 2002, Sanders was already an avid canoer, mostly on weekends.

All this started because, as he puts it, “I just wanted to paddle more.” At first, he mostly stuck to the Ghost River section of the Wolf.

But — for reasons that make sense if you spend even 15 minutes with Grey Beard — as his 80th birthday approached, he thought to himself, “I’ve got to do something that’s more significant in the adventure world.”

And so he has, and so he is.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY DALE SANDERS

10/16/25 10:26 AM

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s our conversation approaches the end of its trail, I steer us onto a darker, thornier fork. I can’t help but ask directly how this 90-year-old man is thinking about not just the physical challenges ahead, but psychic ones, too: the solitude, the awareness of his own mortality. Asking anyone about death feels spiky and awkward, fraught; asking a nonagenarian about death feels downright grotesque. But Greybeard takes it, well, in stride. “Getting old doesn’t worry me,” he says. “I have already lived a full and joyful life. If I die, I think I can accept that. Death

“I am a competitive person, but I've also tried to just appreciate things for what they are.”

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doesn’t worry me. Nobody can tell you the formula to live a happy life. You have to figure that out yourself.”

Even beyond the considerable age factor, he’s well aware that most people who start through-hikes on the AT do not finish. “I may not be able to make it,” he says with a shrug.

“I am a competitive person, but I also have tried to be someone who can just appreciate things for what they are. I think this is an amazing experience, no matter what.”

To follow Dale “Greybeard” Sanders’ journey on the Appalachian Trail, readers can check in on Instagram (@daleat2025hike) or Facebook (Grey Beard Team USA Appalachian Trail).

For more about his previous adventures, including a documentary film that was made about his trip down the Mississippi River, visit greybeardadventurer.com.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY DALE SANDERS

10/16/25 10:26 AM

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TOWARD THE GOOD

TH E J E W ISH FOU N DATION

YEARS 1995 - 2025

O F F E R S PA T H WA Y S TO GENEROSIT Y FROM ONE GENER ATION TO T H E N E X T.

BY JON W. SPARKS

F

or three decades, the Jewish Foundation of Memphis has been looking after the needs of the city. And it’s not just about benefiting the Jewish population, but about the entire community. As Temple Israel Rabbi Micah Greenstein once said to Memphis Magazine, “The great thing here [in Memphis] is that we have people willing to cross boundaries.”

The Jewish Foundation has been happy to help do that since 1995 and is primed to continue the work for years to come.

Laura Linder has led the Foundation as executive director and CEO since 2001 and has been instrumental in how the organization has grown and thrived. The Jewish community, with about 10,000 members here, has long had an infrastructure of agencies and synagogue schools, but its leaders felt that more could be done to ensure the longevity of those institutions. The key would be to focus on financial strength by examining the endowment assets of all of these organizations.

“In 1995, a group of community leaders decided that we needed to step up our efforts to help our Jewish community organizations become financially sustainable,” says Linder.

That meant cultivating current gifts but also working with donors on estate gifts. The leadership at the time included Ron Belz, Steve Wishnia, the late Ben Isenberg, and Steve Graber. “Our first board chair was Ronald Harkavy, who led the Jewish Foundation for seven years, and it really was his vision that launched us.”

That meant bringing in people with expertise in financial matters as well as 10 organizations that would become founding partner agencies, sharing the operating expenses of the Foundation. They were: the Memphis Jewish Home & Rehab, Memphis Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Service, Memphis Jewish Federation, Bornblum Jewish Community School, Margolin Hebrew Academy, Baron Hirsch Congregation, Beth Sholom Synagogue, Temple Israel, and Anshei Sphard-Beth El Emeth ConLaura Linder gregation. The first executive director was Paula Jacobson, who is still involved.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY JEWISH FOUNDATION OF MEMPHIS

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Community Center, you’d become a donor,” says Linder. “But one thing we are finding is that there are many members of the Jewish community who may have moved here for a job, but who haven’t necessarily formally affiliated.”

With that in mind, Linder explains that the Foundation has three areas of impact. “One is our teen philanthropy program, called B’nai Tzedek, which translates into Children of Justice. It’s an initiative that starts at a child’s bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah and puts some of their gift money into what we call a mini donor advised fund, and we have a donor that matches that. Over the course of high school, we have programming, we have a grants process, and are teaching them how to be philanthropists.

They’ve granted over $250,000 out of their funds over the last 20 years of the program.”

The second area of impact is work done with family foundations, the first of which B’nai Tzedek was established in 2008. “It began with the Belz family, where we were able to create a As the Foundation settled into its mission, new legacy commitments. formal foundation structure that has the benthe leadership understood that if it want“We’ve been really fortunate in that we live efits of a 501(c)(3) charity,” says Linder. “So they ed to grow, it couldn’t be dependent on its in a community that is very generous, and benefit from being a public charity, yet can agencies to fund the operating budget. “So, Memphis has always been a leader in philanhave a lot more hands-on engagement just as the idea behind launching our donor-advised thropy, not only in the Jewish community but they would with the private family foundation. funds program was to generate operating revacross the whole community,” says Linder.

Other such foundations include the Wendy & enue, but also to develop relationships with And it echoes Rabbi Greenstein’s observation Avron Fogelman Foundation and the Burton philanthropically minded Jewish families,” about crossing boundaries. Linder says, “I see Weil Family Foundation. The idea is that we says Linder. a real ingrained sense of responsibility that now have an infrastructure for future generaThe group started offering donor-advised tional engagement.” you have to give back.” funds in partnership with the Community The philanthropy universe has been changEach of those foundations has a board of Foundation of Greater Memphis. When funding for everyone, and Linder says the Foundirectors, their own policies and procedures, ing reached a certain size, the Foundation dation’s donors have become their own grant guidelines, and was able to go out on its own. “We built an increasingly savvy. “There’s a lot they get the support of the Jewish infrastructure internally that could support more technology out there. DoFoundation staff. our growth in funds, our work in endowment, nors can do a lot of research into The third area of impact the YEARS 1995 - 2025 and our work with professional advisors,” says the inner workings of all chariFoundation is being able to deal table organizations because the Linder. “Once we got over the hump of the with a wide variety of assets. first five years, things really started moving.” information is easily accessible “We’re able to accept gifts of real It developed as donor-centered, and thereand donors are expecting acestate,” she says, “and we are in fore as a philanthropic partner with its donor countability. A lot of due dilithe midst of facilitating our first families. “We help them give where they want gence happens, and we want to cryptocurrency gifts. We’ve done to give,” Linder says. “If you look at our list make sure that the grants are as collectibles, coin collection, art of grantees, it’s 600-plus charities every year. impactful as possible.” glass. We just finished an S Corp privately It’s all the big local charities you would think Linder admits there is concern about held stock transaction. So we have a team of of — the Church Health Center, MIFA, St. ensuring that the spirit of philanthropy is professional advisors that we work with that Jude, the University of Memphis, MUS, St. passed on to each generation. “Are they gohas allowed us to really meet the needs of Mary’s, all the private schools.” ing to be as engaged? Are they going to be our donors.”

There’s also support from Jewish commuas philanthropic? We always seem to pull it nity organizations. “If you look at the engagetogether, but just like my parents worried, LOCAL IMPACT ment of the Jewish community and the broad I’m worried now.” s expected, Jewish organizations And each generation has questions about community,” she says, “it is understandable are well represented among the benefithat there would be so much giving across the relevance. “Are we still relevant to donors? ciaries of the Foundation’s donors, but recipients are found all around town and in all areas spectrum of all types of Memphis organizaWhen I look at the Jewish community, is tions. We launched a major legacy initiative in philanthropy still a core value for our famof service. St. Jude Children’s Hospital, the 2012 with the goal of every one of our Jewish ilies? I would say yes.”

Church Health Center, the University of Meminstitutions securing 50 commitments from phis, and many more have received funding at various levels. donors to include their organization in their A CHANGING WORLD “What’s great about donor-advised funds is estate plan.” ut the Jewish community is That was intended to change the culchanging, and the Foundation is mindful that families have charitable bank accounts, ture of philanthropy in the Jewish comof the impact. “It used to be that everybody and it’s very simple to make a grant,” Linder munity to include bequests and various joined somewhere. You would join a synasays. “We have an online platform where doestate gifts. The initiative resulted in 500 gogue, you would join the Memphis Jewish nors can interact with their funds — they can

A

B

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PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY JEWISH FOUNDATION OF MEMPHIS

10/16/25 10:35 AM

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see what their balance is, check past activity, and make grant recommendations.”

Technically, the funds in those charitable accounts are owned by the Jewish Foundation, so any such grant recommendations must be approved by the board, but, Linder says, “99.9 percent of all of our grants are approved.”

It’s also crucial for the Foundation to ensure that more than a hundred professional advisors are an integral part of the system. “We work in partnership with local estate professionals, estate attorneys, CPAs, and life insurance professionals, Jewish and non-Jewish,” says Linder.

“They’re in a position to work with clients on charitable giving.

While there are discrete benefits to various organizations, the organization also makes possible a coming together of institutions for shared interests. Pace Cooper is the chair of the Jewish Foundation and makes a point of showing how collaboration has made an impact.

“Because of the world situation and the rise in antisemitism nationally and internationally as an issue, security has been a bigger challenge for each of these institutions within the Jewish community,” he says. He notes that every synagogue, school, and institution is requiring increased investment in security. “For each institution to reinvent the wheel by themselves on how to afford more for their budgets, security becomes a huge challenge and different ones are going to execute at a different level.” In order to ensure greater reliability, the Foundation helps advise all of the concerned institutions, providing better solutions than if they acted individually.

Now, with an organization that has embraced the complexity of ensuring sustainability with various resources and a wide array of financial tools that help donors give meaningfully, it has become one of the top grant-makers in the city.

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ne of the many endeavors at the Jewish Foundation is not just a source of funding for worthy causes, it’s also a training ground for the future of giving. Carolyn Schrier is coordinator and advisor of B’nai Tzedek Teen Philanthropy, which invests in young people by having young people investing in the community.

“It’s an easy way to really engage teens,” she says. “The program has two components. One part is individual giving where each teen in the Jewish community is eligible once they have hit bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah age.”

That is 12 for girls and 13 for boys, and the coming-of-age ritual includes receiving monetary gifts. “This is a way for them to open an account to take some of that money and pay it forward and start their philanthropic journey,” she says. “So they have the ability to open a donor-advised fund just like the adults do at a lower minimum balance. And we have an

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anonymous donor who will match up to $250.

So if a teen puts $250 in, they’re going to wind up with $500 in their account over the course of their journey until they graduate from high school. They are able to give away 20 percent of that account to any charity in the U.S. of their choosing as long as it’s a 501(c)(3).”

Schrier says that in the 23 years that the program has been in Memphis, 255 different individual organizations have benefited to the tune of more than $200,000 in aggregate from almost 400 teens.

The variety of charities is wide, from the Dorothy Day House and the Streetdog Foundation to the Mid-South Food Bank and LeBonheur Children’s Hospital. “They’re doing their homework and finding things that are important to them,” Schrier says, “and then they can say, ‘I want to put my money there,’ and we’re able to write a check and send it on their behalf.”

The second component is that the teens are part of the Jewish Foundation’s co-op grant board. “It’s communal philanthropy,” Schrier says. “The teens put together a grant application for programming. There’s an endowment of $10,000 a year for them to be able to give S E E JF M C O N T IN U E D O N PAG E 5 0

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Memphis Magazine is published monthly. Annual subscription: $18. Publisher/Editor: Anna Traverse.

Managing Editor: Frank Murtaugh. Memphis Magazine is owned by Contemporary Media, Inc., P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101. Stockholders: Ward Archer Jr., 1902 Nelson, Memphis, TN 38114; Kate Gooch, 177 N. Highland, #4206, Memphis, TN 38111; Henry Turley Jr., 65 Union Ave. 12th Floor, Memphis, TN 38103; Gayle Rose, 111 S. Highland, #346, Memphis, TN 38111.

AVERAGE NUMBER COPIES EACH ISSUE DURING PRECEDING 12 MONTHS: Net press run - 15,948. Paid outside county mail subscriptions - 2,944. Paid inside county mail subscriptions - 9,847. Sales through dealers, carriers, street vendors, counter sales and other Non-USPS paid distribution - 312. Other classes mailed through the USPS - 0. Total paid distribution - 13,103.

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out to the Jewish community. They create an application, they interview all the applicants on Zoom, and they’ve prepped ahead of time.

They ask good, tough questions.”

That’s followed by allocations meetings where they discuss among themselves which charities should receive money. “Last year we had way more than $10,000 in asks, but only $10,000 that they could give away,” she says. “So they’re having tough discussions and they’re making tough choices, but they’re doing it together. And my goal is to make sure that they’re all talking and that they all feel heard.”

Among the deeper rewards, Schrier says, are the “Aha!” moments. “Last year we were on a Zoom and one group gave their presentation. They got off and we were getting ready for the next interview, when one of my teens said, ‘If we don’t fund that, the program’s not going to happen.’ And I said, ‘Yeah. I have no other way to tell you what a big deal you are and how what you do is important. This isn’t play money. This isn’t just an exercise. This is real-world solving of issues and real-world making an impact.”

Two of the teens involved with B’nai Tzedek spoke about their interest and involvement.

Both Maggie Olswanger, a sophomore at Hutchison School, and Isaac Cowens, a sophomore at Memphis University School, were in the eighth grade when their mothers signed them up. And neither one was particularly enthusiastic at first. But they quickly saw that it was going to be not only rewarding, but fun to be able to help people.

They’ve given to charities from their own funds and have participated in the co-op grant board. They have discovered the joys of philanthropy and are already looking ahead. “I’m passionate about volunteering and nonprofits,” says Olswanger. “I’m getting more involved in the Jewish community and recognizing that there’s need and figuring out how to help that need specifically.”

For Cowens, it’s a continuation of the involvement his family has had. “I just want to stay involved in the Jewish community and nonprofits. My mom’s been working with nonprofits for years and years. It’s a big part of my life to be working with a nonprofit, so I really want to just stay with it and work with people.”

One of the ways he sees the impact of philanthropy is through a bus tour that Schrier arranges. “We get to visit most of the organizations that we funded the past year, and see what they’ve done with our money. And that’s always really cool to see how they’ve put it to good use.”

Olswanger agrees that the rewards of participating in B’nai Tzedek are real.

“I like doing something that I know is going towards something good.”

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BUILDING A FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE IN 1945, LOCAL BUSINESS LEA DERS FOUNDED THE W EST TENNESSEE HOME BUILDERS ASSOCI ATION.

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top: In 1962, members stood outside the newly opened Home Builders Center on Central, the “nerve center” of the home building industry in Memphis. inset: The original logo of the Home Builders Assocation. right: Wallace Johnson served as the group’s first president.

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O

n the morning of August 15, 1945, Memphians picked up their copies of The Commercial Appeal and read the main headline with stunned relief: WA R IS OV ER! After more than four

years of fighting overseas, tens of thousands of Allied soldiers would finally be coming home. Many of these men and women, however, had no homes waiting for them when they got here.

During the war years, home building companies, along with businesses of all kinds, did their part for the war effort. The Fisher Body Works Plant in Memphis was converted into an airplane factory. Firestone and International Harvester churned out tires, tools, and other equipment needed by the military.

Plumbing, electrical, lumber, and other supply companies essential for the construction of residents diverted their inventory towards the war effort. For almost four years, home building in America was essentially put on hold.

But with all these returning veterans, the housing shortage in America after World War II was considered so dire that Congress declared a “national housing emergency.”

A summary of domestic conditions by the National Bureau of Economic Research put it this way: “The housing situation, and not unemployment, was to be the nation’s critical domestic problem.” Addressing the crisis, President Harry Truman signed the National Housing Act, with the purpose of “providing a decent home and suitable living environment for every American family.”

Eleven million. That’s how many new homes the government estimated were needed by all those soldiers suddenly returning home. “Following the surreal images of World

War II, the country desperately desired a return to safety and living the American dream — get a job, buy a house, marry and raise a family,” according to an article in the National Real Estate Investor. But that eagerly awaited transition to a peacetime existence — a world of new homes, schools, and happy neighborhoods — was hindered by a shortage of building materials, along with wartime regulations that still rationed items like rubber, steel, copper, and aluminum — essential products for home construction.

In Memphis, the situation was so dire for returning veterans that Memphis State College and Southwestern hauled trailers to their campuses to provide housing for married families who wished to attend school there.

Grand old homes in neighborhoods like Central Gardens and Annesdale-Snowden were converted into living spaces for as many as four different families.

That’s when a group of local business leaders joined forces to tackle the problem.

W

allace Johnson, along with other Memphis home builders, realized they couldn’t solve the housing problem on their own, but by working together, they could snip away at the government red tape that was hinPHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY WTNHBA

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dering their progress, and they could also link builders with suppliers and contractors.

The new group was called, quite logically, the Home Builders Association of Memphis.

First organized in late 1944 and officially chartered in 1945, the MHBA had an important goal: “The Home Builders Association was formed as a vehicle to promote the interest of legitimate home builders, to improve their skill and technique in all of their procedures, to advance and perfect their talents for design and beauty in planning, to insure the best practices, and by fair dealings, to gain and hold the confidence of the home-seeking public.”

Eighty years later, that goal hasn’t changed.

Since he was the impetus behind the organization, it made sense that Johnson was elected to a one-year term as the group’s first president. One of the most prolific and successful home builders in Memphis history, Johnson can take credit for populating much of East Memphis with well-designed and affordable homes. The streets of major subdivisions such as Colonial Acres are lined with homes designed and constructed by his company, and he later became a partner with Kemmons Wilson to develop Holiday Inns across America.

Other officers that first year were vice president James B. Goodwin, owner of a large construction firm here, and secretary R.A. McDougal, an executive with Pilley Nicodemus Lumber Company.

The Home Builders Association started out with only 13 charter members, all involved in real estate sales or construction: McNeese Construction Company, Chandler & Chandler, Dave Dermon & Company, McNeese Construction Company, J. Ripley Greer, Harry Dlugach, Benjamin Dlugach, Charles A. Cleaves, Dobson and Smith Real Estate, Sam Stephenson, Pennell and Gill, and Herman Gruber.

In the beginning the group gathered for “Dutch treat” lunches at local restaurants, hotels, and clubs, before renting offices in the Sterick Building. The group realized the need to reach out to the “home-seeking public,” and in the late 1940s and early 1950s embarked

on a series of community events that have continued — with considerable improvements — to this day.

The 1946 Home Show, for example, was actually a trade show, with booths and vendors filling the Shelby County Building at the Mid-South Fairgrounds. The centerpiece of the show — and the only “home” in the show — was “a contemporary house, completely furnished, built completely inside the building.” After the show, the building was

A Parade of Homes in the 1960s.

dismantled and given to a lucky visitor who won a drawing for it.

A highlight of the weeklong event, which drew as many as 45,000 visitors every year, was the announcement of “Mrs. Homemaker,” chosen from women sponsored by various community organizations such as the Jaycees or the Rotary Club. Candidates for this honor — which came with a $300 cash prize and a week’s vacation at Holiday Shores in Long Beach, Mississippi — had to be married, from the Mid-South, and “engaged in home-making.” This was an important event for our community, with the Memphis Press-Scimitar publishing photos and profiles of each candidate (some years as many as 40 women) every day leading up to the Home Show. The competition required each contestant to speak for two minutes on “The Most Important Event in My Life.”

The Spring Parade of Homes also started in the late 1940s, presenting as many as 90 newly built homes in neighborhoods around town.

Potential buyers were provided with a map and could find the model homes by searching for the large Easter bunny display in the front yard. A newsletter account noted, “It seems everybody in Memphis was watching for the Bunny signs.”

It wasn’t until years later, of course, that the “parade” evolved into the annual Vesta Home Show, designed to showcase as many as a dozen residences in a newly developed subdivision in or around Memphis. This fall, the event will take place November 1-30 at the Hidden Creek development in Collierville, showcasing six new homes that represent outstanding examples of design innovation and craftsmanship.

Many other events throughout the year, such as National Home Week and even a Home Buyers School, were also quickly established, all designed to “create a better climate in the home building industry and build confidence in the home-buying public.”

Placing those eye-catching Easter bunnies in the front yards of the Spring Parade of Homes was part of the HBAM’s move towards better marketing and promotions. Members were given yard signs, decals, posters, and other marketing materials. If they wished, they could buy gold-plated lapel pins, tie chains, and cufflinks with the HBAM seal from a local jeweler. They also came up with an official slogan — “Better Living Begins When You Own a New Home.”

— and encouraged local businesses to display that wherever they could.

A

s the organization expanded, HBAM members realized a need for a permanent location that was more accessible to the general public than the rented offices in the Sterick Building. What they required was a place to showcase the skills and abilities of all their members. So, under the leadership of president Kemmons Wilson, a man known for always doing things in a big way, the Home Builders Association of Memphis opened an ultra-modern Home Builders Center, located at 2440 Central Avenue, just east of Christian Brothers College. Open to the public, the N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 53

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building featured offices, conference rooms, and a research library with building trade magazines, material catalogs, and government publications.

“Considered one of the finest home builders association headquarters in the nation,” according to a company history, “it enhanced the prestige and became the nerve center of the Memphis home building industry, providing a storehouse of information about homes and home building. Changing displays and exhibits attracted hundreds of Memphians and newcomers.” The HBAM eventually outgrew the building on Central, and over the years moved to new locations in East Memphis, Germantown, and today Collierville — always staying in the heart of areas with booming new home construction.

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Businesses supported the group’s mission and promoted its slogan.

But all that was still in the future. In the late 1940s and early 1950s, as membership grew, committees were established that focused on such matters as building codes, home financing, FHA and Veterans Administration regulations and benefits, subdivision development, land planning, and publications.

News about the industry was conveyed to members in the monthly Bildor magazine, a weekly Bulletin, the National Association of Home Builders Journal, and even the Legislative Flash, featuring “news from the capital and special bulletins on urgent matters.”

The Memphis Bildor magazine was especially useful, since it not only provided an updated list of members, but also gave builders tips on ways to make their new homes more appealing. “Murals Are Offered in Medium-Priced Homes” and “Fireplaces Are a Selling Point” were typical articles.

A considerable expansion from those early restaurant luncheons, monthly meetings offering “excellent speakers with excellent ideas” were still conducted for the active and PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY WTNHBA

Insurance is our something.

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associate members. These were supplemented by numerous “workhorse” meetings of the various committees, a Small Volume Builders Council roundtable, and other get-togethers that focused on business management, new construction techniques, marketing, and other topics of interest. In addition, awards were presented each year to “Bildor of the Year” and “Associate of the Year.”

A group that began with about a dozen members had, within ten years, expanded to more than 240 active members and more than 220 associate members. Although some of these names may no longer be familiar to present-day readers, every possible stage in the design, construction, sale, and upkeep of a new home was represented, with companies specializing in such details as blueprints (Campbell Blue Prints), insurance (Whitfield King Company), pest control (Atomic), inhome stereo equipment (Modern Music), and even home photography (G.W. Sipe).

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The HBAM leadership kept coming up with effective promotions. One of them was the annual “Spruce Up Contest.” All owners and builders featured in this sale, held each year in late February, were urged to make their homes stand out with new paint, shrubbery, and other improvements. They were also encouraged to display the HBAM “Seal of Approval” yard sign (available for free from the Builders Center). The winner of this contest would win a special certificate (“suitable for framing and display in public”) along with a steak dinner for two at the Embers, one of this city’s finest restaurants in its day.

It wasn’t all work and no play for members of the Home Builders Association. One of the most anticipated events of the year was the annual HBAM picnic, which featured food, drink, games, prizes, and special appearances by local celebrities. Sometimes these guests had nothing to do with home building, but they were always crowd-pleasers. An old scrapbook from the late 1950s contains snapshots of Trent Wood and Tiny the Clown (above), co-hosts of the popular

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WMC-TV Channel 5 children’s television show Looney Zoo. Perhaps the biggest event of each year, though, was the Presidential Ball. Held in December in the Grand Ballroom of the Chisca Plaza, this formal holiday party featured dinner, dancing, a fashion show, and special awards. The group’s events weren’t confined to Memphis. Every year, the HBAM joined with the Little Rock association and journeyed to Chicago for the National Convention of Home Builders. They actually rented a special train for this journey, dubbed the Rock & Roll Express, and invitations urged members to buy their tickets soon: “If you were one of the gang who blew into the Chicago Home Show last year, you knew it was a very special trip. But that was just a shake-down run for this year’s plans for the rootin’-tootinest time you’ve ever had!”

One year, that journey was well worth it. The Home Builders Association of Memphis received the Severin Trophy for second place as one of the top home builder associations in the country (out of some 5,000 similar organizations). The award paid special mention of the Memphis group’s “programs of the most benefit to the public and to the membership.”

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rom the beginning, the HBAM made a special effort to give back to the community. In the first years, members made annual donations to the Community Chest (a forerunner to today’s United Way). Employees of home construction companies were encouraged to donate a half-day’s wages to this organization; that drive was always successful, one year exceeding its $10,000 goal — quite a sum in those days — by $2,000.

Donations were made directly to the newly opened St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Memphis Area Chamber of Commerce, and to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Memphis — a tradition that continues to this day.

The Home Builders Association of Memphis — now the West Tennessee Home Builders Association — was formed in 1945 to tackle the critical housing shortage in America following World War II. To say they accomplished their goal would be an understatement. Within a few years, “the tremendous demand for homes for war-weary veterans was met,” and according to a 1959 booklet, “more than 80,000 Memphis families now live in modern, comfortable homes built since the association was founded.”

A membership roster from the 1950s posed this question — “How well has the HBAM succeeded in attaining its goals?” — and then answered it: “The position of the Association merits the respect of both the home builder, his associates, and the public.” Eighty years after the group was chartered, with a growing membership and a packed calendar of events, it’s safe to say that still holds true today.

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Sometimes, a few simple questions can put you off on the right path. Asking a professional what makes working with them a unique experience can help you understand how they work and if their style meshes with your own.

This is a great place to start! Five Star Professional uses its own proprietary research methodology to name outstanding professionals, then works with publications such as Memphis magazine to spread the word about award winners. Each award candidate undergoes a thorough research process (detailed here) before being considered for the final list of award winners. For the complete list of winners, go to www.fivestarprofessional.com/public/research.

RESEARCH DISCLOSURES In order to consider a broad population of high-quality wealth managers, award candidates are identified by one of three sources: firm nomination, peer nomination or prequalification based on industry standing. Self-nominations are not accepted. Memphis-area award candidates were identified using internal and external research data. Candidates do not pay a fee to be considered or placed on the final lists of Five Star Wealth Managers.

• The Five Star award is not indicative of a professional’s future performance.

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• Five Star Professional is not an advisory firm and the content of this article should not be considered financial advice. For more information on the Five Star Wealth Manager award program, research and selection criteria, go to fivestarprofessional.com/research.

• 666 award candidates in the Memphis area were considered for the Five Star Wealth Manager award. 42 (approximately 6% of the award candidates) were named 2025 Five Star Wealth Managers.

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Staci L. Jackson Strategic Advisory Services Kevin D. Kimery Kimery Wealth Management Jim Whitehead Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC/ Crown Financial Group Continued on FS-2

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2025 AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Sudhir Kumar Agrawal Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC Matthew Marie Allgood Allgood Financial Becky Ahl Bridgmon Morgan Stanley Chirag Dinesh Chauhan Bluff City Advisory Group James Euart Cochran Commonwealth Financial Network Richard Schaben Ditter Pier Financial Advisors Brian Kevin Douglas Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC Leslie Hill Drummond Summit Asset Management, LLC Kathleen Marie Fish Fish And Assocates

Cecil Adair Godman Mercury Investment Group

Sreeni Meka Lakeland Wealth Management

Sarah Russell Haizlip Summit Asset Management, LLC

Mark Christopher Miller UCL Financial Group

Jay Lawrence Healy Beacon Pointe Advisors

David Landon Mills Shoemaker Financial

Lance Wayne Hollingsworth Summit Asset Management, LLC

Hugh Harold Parks Envision Financial Planning

Stacey Stephenson Hyde Envision Financial Planning

Vincent Carlton Perry Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC

Larry Wayne Karban Atkins Capital Management

David Anthony Pickler Pickler Wealth Advisors

Martin Samuel Kelman Kelman Lazarov John Norfleet Laughlin Summit Asset Management, LLC Jonathan D. McAlister Kimery Wealth Management Mackie McKinney LPL Financial

Lindsey Donovan Rhea Alia Wealth Partners Ivan Juan Rodriguez New Southern Advisory Services Bryan L. Roper Wells Fargo Advisors James Andrew Sego Sego Wealth Management, LLC

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Marisa Rose Simonetti Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC James Sims Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC Patrick Sirayathorn Alden Investment Group Julie Westbrook Terry Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC Samuel Alexander Thompson III Summit Asset Management, LLC Michael Lowell Turner Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC Hulon Warlick Independent Wealth Management, LLC Steven Wishnia Highland Capital Management, LLC

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was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria. 666 Memphis-area wealth managers were considered for the representative; 2. Actively licensed as a RIA or as a principal of a registered investment adviser firm for a minimum of 5 years; 3. Favorable regulatory and complaint history review (As defined by FSP, the wealth manager has not; A. Been subject to a regulatory action that complaint process. Unfavorable feedback may have been discovered through a check of complaints registered with a regulatory authority or complaints registered through FSP’s consumer complaint process; feedback may not be representative of any one client’s experience; based on internal standards; 5. Accepting new clients. Evaluation criteria – considered: 6. One-year client retention rate; 7. Five-year client retention rate; 8. Non-institutional discretionary and/or non-discretionary client assets administered; 9. Number of client households not manage their clients’ assets. The inclusion of a wealth manager on the Five Star Wealth Manager list should not be construed as an endorsement of the wealth manager by FSP or this publication. Working with a Five Star Wealth Manager or any wealth manager is LEARN MORE AT FIVESTARPROFESSIONAL.COM — F S - 2

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’ve got a brand-new bag, with a fresh wardrobe and evergreen ideas for expressing your generosity this season. While I’m delivering more joy to the world from the lists you’re sending me, don’t forget local nonprofits. A membership to the Memphis Zoo? A donation to St. Jude? Here are more splendid ideas good for all ages, which will last a lot more than 12 days. And may all your holidays be so magnanimous.

Tunes

Memphis music is always on my nice list. You can do your part by pitching in for Music Export Memphis, which opens doors for young musicians, helping them get started with touring and recording. Or Stax the deck with a contribution to the Soulsville Foundation, which is making a difference in music and education. For the classically minded, get subscriptions to the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. Check out the Blues Foundation to keep that art form alive. And you can always get and give merch from your favorite bands along with buying their music. Santa says to keep it upbeat!

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enerosity uide Livability

My elves spend a lot of time making toys, sure, but in the off-season, they help build houses for Habitat for Humanity (they can easily get into those tight spaces). Habitat does much more as well: helping with affordable mortgages, financial education, and home repairs. Plus, its ReStore is a cornucopia of home furnishings at easy prices. Other nonprofits that will make your giving heart sing are the Mid-South Food Bank, MIFA, the Dorothy Day House, and Homes for Hearts. Need more ideas? Check out LIVEGIVEmidsouth.org for a directory of places where you can make a difference.

Literacy / Journalism

As a careful list-checker and voracious reader, I love to give the gift of the written word. You can put worthy organizations on your own gift list, to give or to get. How about Literacy Mid-South or the ALLMemphis literacy organization? There’s always the Memphis Library Foundation and Friends of the Library.

Santa is also a regular reader of news from MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, the Institute for Public Service Reporting, Chalkbeat Tennessee, and of course the Memphis Flyer and Memphis Magazine. Or find your own sources and spread the word!

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Arts

Santa is a big supporter of the arts, and you can be too. Sure, you can always get something at a museum gift shop, but I recommend annual memberships at the singular organizations around town. My list is long, so get ready: the Brooks, the Dixon, National Civil Rights Museum, Ballet Memphis, Opera Memphis, Collage Dance, Theatre Memphis, Hattiloo Theatre, and Playhouse on the Square (which — see above my pretties — will be staging The Wizard of Oz in November and December). And so many more, so think about your favorites and you’d better watch out and you’d better not cry!

Nature / Nurture

Oh, the Humane-ity! Yes, that’s some Santa humor for you and he loves his reindeer and his pets (the gorgeous Chloe is pictured) and his green spaces with a passion. You can help with contributions to whatever tickles your fa-la-las, like the Humane Society, Woof River Animal Rescue, Streetdog Foundation, and many more. And for the great outdoors, who doesn’t love helping out Overton Park (and Bark), Shelby Farms, the Wolf River Conservancy, the Memphis River Parks Partnership, and — well, jingle my bells, there are a lot of places to go and enjoy holiday cheer outside.

Where’s your favorite? Go! Fetch!

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SERVICE AREAS Crisis We provide a full continuum of crisis services, including pre-arrest diversion, emergency room diversion, a walk-in center, a mobile crisis unit, crisis stabilization beds, addiction beds, and detox beds. The goal of all our crisis work is to assess patients for mental health and addiction and get them back into the community as soon as possible.

All services include referrals and access to appropriate levels of care including outpatient follow-up services.

Housing Alliance provides a full continuum of housing based on an individual’s needs.

These needs range from housing for medically fragile patients to independent housing for individuals 18 and older who are ready to live on their own. Housing clients come to Alliance through crisis services and referrals and must have a mental health diagnosis. Our primary goal is to keep patients out of the state institutions and on the road to recovery.

Addiction Our approach to treating addiction is based on “no wrong door.” Many patients come to us through crisis services, but we also accept referrals from community partners like the Memphis Area Prevention Coalition, hospitals, Shelby County Mental Health Court, and the Shelby County Division of Corrections.

We provide medical detox, group therapy, basic and intensive outpatient treatment, individual therapy, psychiatric and medication evaluation, and medication assisted treatment. More than half of those we see with a substance abuse issue have an underlying mental health diagnosis.

Adult Outpatient All of our service areas are connected, but adult mental health lies at the heart of it all. We employ evidence-based intervention to treat a comprehensive array of mental health disorders in adults. Patients come through crisis and community referrals. We approach trauma and every other presenting problem we see with a treatment plan based on the presenting life story of every patient, seeking to reframe the trauma and create a new narrative.

Children & Youth Outpatient Treating children and families is based on a keen awareness of social determinants of health, the economic and social conditions that inf luence individual and group differences in health. We see many patients from single parent households and a vast array of trauma and adverse childhood experiences. And like in other service areas, COVID lockdowns and social isolation combined with an increasing acceptance of mental health in popular media means our volume in this area has increased significantly. Our team approach is key — it’s not just a therapist, it’s a whole team wrapping itself around each patient, from psychiatrist and practitioner to case manager and family support therapist.

The Alliance Foundation Philanthropy for Mental Health When you give to The Alliance Foundation, you are funding life-saving mental, behavioral, substance abuse health care through Alliance Healthcare Services. Mental health touches every family, every school, every workplace, and we believe no one should face a crisis alone.

Your generosity makes this possible: The Crisis Wellness Center Memphis’ 24/7 lifeline, open to all with no insurance, no appointment, no judgment. Open now at 3200 Broad Ave. Memphis, TN The Children & Youth Crisis Wellness Center - Coming in early 2026, the first 24/7 crisis center of its kind in West Tennessee dedicated to kids ages 4-17.

If you or a loved one is facing a mental health struggle, emotional distress, alcohol or drug concerns, or just need someone to talk to, caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.

Call or text 988 or call Alliance at 901-369-1410.

Scan to Give Scan to Learn

Mark Billingsley Diana Barzizza Executive Director Director of Development & Marketing The Alliance Foundation The Alliance Foundation mbillingsley@thealliancefoundation.org dbarzizza@thealliancefoundation.org 901-569-5070 901-558-3197 SPECIAL PROMOTION

GIVING GUIDE

ESTABLISHED: 1913 NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 3,401 2024 REVENUE: $6,400,000 • Special Events – 24% • Contributions – 35% • Bequests – 23% • Contributed Services, etc. – 16% • Other - 2% • Total Public Support– 100% LOCATION

5101 Wheelis Dr., Suite 100, Memphis, TN 38117 PHONE

800.227.2345 CONTACT

Cancer.org/Tennessee @AmericanCancerSociety @americancancersociety American Cancer Society

We are dedicated to supporting people with cancer and their families as we work to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.

We are there at every step of the cancer journey – from prevention to treatment to survivorship.

Donations to the American Cancer Society help us fund breakthrough research that saves lives, advocate for health equity and more affordable care at every level of government and provide essential day-to-day patient support.

Scott Holmes Executive Director, Tennessee

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP Scott Holmes Executive Director, Tennessee BOARD MEMBERS John Bearden Retired CEO Dave Smith Healthcare Executive Marc Watkins Chief Medical Officer, Kroger Health Sam Kirby Sarah Cannon / HCA Jim Lancaster Main Street Health

The American Cancer Society is a leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. We are improving the lives of people with cancer and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer.

Darlene Smith Chattanooga Plastic Surgery Connie French Mountain Commerce Bank Chad Pendleton Executive Consultant Dr. Lloyd Geddes Medical Director Q Taylor Entrepreneur Lauren Peach KPMG Mary Heston Reltio

SPECIAL PROMOTION

OUR WORK IN MEMPHIS INCLUDES: • The Road To Recovery program eases the cancer burden by giving free rides to cancer-related medical appointments.

• Hope Lodge communities provide free, temporary lodging for people facing cancer and their caregivers when treatment is far from home. Our Memphis Hope Lodge offers 40 guest rooms located near treatment centers in the area.

• The American Cancer Society is currently funding 18 multi-year research grants totaling $11,493,000 in Tennessee.

• In 2025, ACS invested over $112,000 in transportation grants and $40,000 in lodging grants for Tennessee health system partners to help patients and caregiver access cancer treatment.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Road To Recovery – Becoming a Road to Recovery driver will put you at the heart of the American Cancer Society’s mission and fulfill a critical need for cancer patients. To learn more or volunteer visit cancer.org/drive.

FUNDRAISING EVENTS: The American Cancer Society fund raising campaigns and events provide corporations, individuals, and communities the opportunity to support our mission to save lives and improve access to quality health care for all. Local events include: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Memphis - participants celebrate and honor breast cancer survivors and caregivers and raise critical funds to help end breast cancer. Visit makingstrideswalk.org/memphistn to learn more.

Men Wear Pink of Memphis distinguished groups of community leaders raising awareness and money for breast cancer treatment and prevention.

Visit menwearpink.org/memphistn to learn more and join us!

SPECIAL PROMOTION

GIVING GUIDE

ABOUT US ANNUAL REVENUE: $1.4M (Mid-South) EMPLOYEES: 9 (Mid-South) ESTABLISHED: 1949 (Mid-South affiliate; national

organization founded 1924) SOURCES OF FUNDING

Individuals: 60% Corporations: 30% Organizations: 1% Foundations: 9% EMAIL

MidSouthTN@Heart.org PHONE

901.248.7950 WEBSITE

heart.org/tennessee facebook.com/AHATennesee @ahatennessee x.com/ahatennessee LEADERSHIP Mandy Joyce Executive Director, Development & Community Health, American Heart Association, Mid-South Kate Staggs Senior Director of Development, Socials, American Heart Association, Mid-South

MID-SOUTH B OARD

Andy Davis, Chair VP & Business Manager, Turner Construction Dr. Cassandra Howard, President Chief Medical Officer, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare Doug McGowen, Leadership Development Chair President & CEO, MLGW Jenny Bartlett-Prescott Chief Operating Officer, Church Health Dr. Steven Gubin President & Cardiologist, Stern Cardiovascular Foundation Dr. John Jefferies Physician Executive & Former MS BOD President Raaj Kurapati Executive Vice Chancellor, CFO/COO UT Health Sciences Center Dr. Shokea Miller Nurse Executive, Cigna Healthcare Dr. Keith Norman VP, Government Affairs & Chief Community Relations Officer Baptist Memorial Health Care Teleesa Payne Mason Information Technology, FedEx Gina Neely Media Personality Robyn Sharp Director, Global Supply Chain, International Paper Manoucheka Thermitus Chief Operating Officer, Regional One Health Marques Young Financial Advisor, Edward Jones Dr. Benjamin “Rush” Waller Chief Medical Officer, Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital

SPECIAL PROMOTION

MISSION The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. In the Mid-South, we work across Shelby County and surrounding communities to fight heart disease and stroke through education, advocacy, and access to care. From CPR and AED training to blood pressure awareness, nutrition programs, youth engagement, and more, we are empowering every neighbor to live a heart-healthy life.

GOALS: Memphis faces serious health challenges, with more than 60 percent of residents lacking access to healthy food, nearly 40 percent of adults living with high blood pressure, and 20 percent who smoke regularly. Among women in Tennessee, heart disease remains the leading cause of death.

Our goal is to ensure every person in the Mid-South has the knowledge, resources, and support to live a longer, healthier life.

We are building HEARTSafe Communities, expanding blood pressure screening hubs, advocating for stronger health policies, and teaching lifesaving CPR skills that turn bystanders into lifesavers. Together, we are creating a healthier, more resilient Memphis.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Volunteers are the heartbeat of our mission.

Join us on the front lines of change by serving on event committees, advocating for stronger health policies or helping at community health fairs and events.

Every volunteer helps save lives and strengthens the Mid-South community.

FUNDRAISING EVENTS: The American Heart Association hosts inspiring events year-round that bring people together to celebrate survivors, honor loved ones, and support hearthealth initiatives across the Mid-South.

Each event helps raise awareness and funds that directly impact local lives.

Events include: Mid-South Heart Walk, Heart Ball, STEM Goes Red, Hard Hats with Heart, Go Red for Women Luncheon, and West Tennessee Go Red for Women.

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES Your support makes a lifesaving difference.

The American Heart Association offers year-round ways to give and get involved.

Become a sponsor, start a fundraising team, make a tribute gift, or give directly to support heart-health programs across the Mid-South. Every dollar raised stays local, fueling community education and research that saves lives.

Be the Beat That Keeps Be the Beat Memphis Going.

That Keeps Memphis Going.

Every story, survivor, and volunteer fuel our mission to create a world of longer, healthier lives.and From schools to job sites to citytostreets, American Every story, survivor, volunteer fuel our mission create the a world of longer, healthier lives.

From schools to job sitesto to take city streets, Heart Association empowers our community action,the oneAmerican heartbeat Heart Association empowers our community to take action, one heartbeat at a time.

Learn more @ MidSouthTN@Heart.org at a time. Learn more @ MidSouthTN@Heart.org

SPECIAL PROMOTION

GIVING GUIDE VISION: Following Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s ideal of education: “Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education.” This true education provided within a supportive, joyful, and hopeful school culture — will prepare our students to be positive agents of change in their community.

ABOUT US STUDENTS: 1454 EMPLOYEES: 228 CAMPUSES: 6 ESTABLISHED: 2018 SIX CAMPUS

Berclair (K-8) – 3880 Forest Ave, 38122 Binghampton (K-8) – 2540 Hale Ave, 38112 Frayser (K-8) – 3690 Thomas St, 38127 Hickory Hill (K-8) – 3572 Emerald St, 38115 Midtown (9-12) – 61 N McLean Blvd, 38104 Orange Mound (K-8) – 2718 Lamar Ave, 38114 SOURCES OF FUNDING

Individuals – .37% Corporations & Organizations – 3.04% Foundations – 15.19% State & Federal Funding – 81.4% ADDRESS

61 N McLean Blvd, Memphis, TN 38104 PHONE

901.618.7422 EMAIL ADDRESS:

info@compassmemphis.org WEBSITE

compassmemphis.org facebook.com/compassmemphis instagram.com/compassmemphis

Kristi Baird Executive Director

LEADERSHIP Kristi Baird Executive Director BOARD Dr. John Smarrelli Christian Brothers University - President Marty Petrusek Trane US - Treasurer Marty Regan Lewis Thomason Law Secretary

Mike Allen Memphis Botanic Garden Judge Kathleen N. Gomes Shelby County Probate Court Vernua Hanrahan Memphis Housing Authority Leslie Jones Compass-Midtown parent Teresa Sloyan Hyde Family Foundation Bishop Emeritus J Terry Steib Diocese of Memphis

SPECIAL PROMOTION

WHO WE SERVE Across the nation, schools are closing in urban neighborhoods. Compass Community Schools represent an unprecedented example of urban charter schools opening in Memphis to serve predominantly low-income students in the neighborhoods of Berclair, Binghampton, Frayser, Hickory Hill, Midtown, and Orange Mound. Our mission is to prepare students for college and lifelong success by developing the whole child through a focus on academic excellence, values-based character education, and service learning in the community.

In 2019, Compass opened its doors to welcome all students and diversity in all forms: cognitive, cultural, ethnic, gender, racial, residency status, and socioeconomic.

Today, the Compass Network serves over 1,450 students, of whom 67% are Hispanic and 30% are African American. Our students arrive at our schools with different needs. Compass Community Schools serves students who have physical, emotional, mental, and behavioral disabilities, students who speak English as a second language, and younger students who lack the wraparound services and academic support to establish a strong educational foundation. 95% of our families are from the urban Memphis area, and 77% are from zip codes with the lowest median household income (below $42,100). All Compass students receive free lunch.

MAKING THE GRADES: According to the State of Tennessee 2024 assessments, 5 Compass Schools scored a TVAAS of 5, which is the highest distinction based on TVAAS composite scores. The Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) measures students’ academic growth over time.

A Level 5 composite means we are successfully moving students toward proficiency and beyond. Significant growth, as characterized by level 5, means our students are rebounding from the negative impacts of the pandemic, our teachers are effectively helping students to reach academic goals, and our curriculum plan is getting results.

Additionally, 3 Compass Community

Schools earned the State of Tennessee’s esteemed Reward Schools designation.

Reward schools are schools that improve overall student academic achievement and growth for all student groups. The Reward designation is the highest honor schools can earn through the state’s accountability model. Reward Schools are improving in terms of achievement and growth for all student groups. We are proud of these honors because they affirm that our strategies and teachers are helping students make academic gains.

LEADERSHIP & SERVICE Not only have we achieved academic success, but we are also recognized for our leadership and service.

• Named one of the top charter networks in the state, scoring in the top 30% of all Shelby County Schools.

• Received distinction from the Tennessee Charter School Center for charter school leader of the year and community impact project of the year.

• Growth in all subject areas of the TCAP – Math, English, Social Studies, and Science.

• Added after-school and summer programming to combat the lingering effects of the pandemic.

• Implemented dual enrollment and career readiness to prepare students to succeed in the classroom and life.

• Recognized by the Tennessee Environmental Education Association’s Organization of the Year for our environmental service.

• Participated in 101 service field trips and completed 7,314 hours of service across grades K-12.

YOU make all the

Follow us as we focus on reading proficiency and support us as we......

• Increase test scores across all subjects.

• Add Accelerated Reading programs to boost reading comprehension.

• Grow classroom and school libraries to support at-home reading.

• Partner with Arise2Read to practice reading skills with 2nd grade students.

• Train teachers in the “Science of Reading” with Memphis Literacy Institute.

We must close the gap between what the state pays and the actual cost to educate a child. Show the students at Compass Community Schools that education is a priority.

Together, we can bring the dream of a world-class education to the students who need it most.

Level The Learning Gap. compassmemphis.org/invest SPECIAL PROMOTION

GIVING GUIDE

osten

Pancreatic Cancer Support

Research

Advocacy

Education

Hope

ABOUT US ANNUAL REVENUE: $250,000 ESTABLISHED: 2003 SOURCES OF FUNDING

Kick It Pickleball Tournament

Kick It 5k

INDIVIDUALS: 90% CORPORATIONS: 5% ORGANIZATIONS: 5% ADDRESS

6060 Poplar Avenue, Suite 140,Memphis, TN 38119 PHONE

901.606.7542

MISSION To establish support and a forum for communication among those afflicted with pancreatic cancer via support group meetings, our website, social media channels, and events. To assist with the training of future pancreatic cancer surgeons.

WEBSITE

www.kostenfoundation.com facebook.com/KostenFoundation/ @KostenFDN EVENTS:

Support Group: The Kosten Foundation in-person and virtual support group is free and open to everyone affected by pancreatic cancer, including patients, family members, caregivers and anyone interested in supportIng those impacted by the disease and learning more. Everyone is welcome. The Support Group meets on the second Saturday of every month. If you would like to join the support group and for additional information, please visit KostenFoundation.com.

Kick It 5K: The Kick It 5K takes place on the last Sunday of October and is the largest fundraiser for the Kosten Foundation. The all-ages event includes a 5k run, 1-mile fun walk, opportunities for spirit runners, an inspirational memorial and survivor ceremony, entertainment and food vendors.

Tribute at Twilight: For Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month in November, the Kosten Foundation is proud to host the Tribute at Twilight. The event is for survivors of pancreatic cancer, Kosten Foundation support group members and those who have lost loved ones to the disease. Participants share stories and there is a symbolic presentation in remembrance and honor of those lost to pancreatic cancer and those still fighting it.

E XECUTIVE LE ADERSHIP

Alan L. Kosten Chairman Of The Board Jeffrey A. Goldberg President Thomas Craig Director Of Community Engagement SPECIAL PROMOTION

To provide funding for clinical and basic research toward improving outcomes for those afflicted with pancreatic cancer.

It is our sincere hope that we can provide an informative, compassionate, and humane approach toward improving the quality of life for those afflicted with pancreatic cancer and their families. Additionally, through research efforts, it is our very realistic passion to find a path to the early diagnosis and cure of pancreatic cancer in our lifetimes.

ABOUT THE HERB KOSTEN FOU NDAT ION: The Herb Kosten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research was founded in 2003 by the family of Herb Kosten after his death due to pancreatic cancer. Kosten’s family sought to improve community support, awareness, and funding for pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest known cancers.

As the only organization of its kind in a five-state area, the group focuses on providing access to resources and support through a combination of communication, initiatives, programs, and events. All members of the Foundation are volunteers who donate hundreds of hours each year and believe in leading by example. The organization has raised more than $3,000,000 for pancreatic cancer research and hosts a very active monthly support group meeting for patients, their families, and anyone interested in learning more about pancreatic cancer.

In 2004, in honor of Kosten’s love of tennis, the Memphis-based organization began hosting annual tennis tournaments to raise money to fight pancreatic cancer and in

Herb Kosten 2011 the group held its first Kick It 5K run/ walk. Money raised from the Kick It 5K and other Kosten Foundation events help fund pancreatic cancer research. For more information about the Kosten Foundation, its programs, and events, visit the website at kostenfoundation.com.

KICK IT PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT The second annual Kick It Pickleball Tournament was held on May 16-18. The event raised nearly $50,000, attracting more than 300 participants and spectators for a weekend filled with pickleball matches, community engagement and fundraising. 2026 dates are to be determined . All proceeds from the tournament are used for pancreatic cancer research.

SHELBY FARMS PARK • 1 PM FOR INFORMATION RE-SPONSORSHIPS PLEASE CONTACT ALAN KOSTEN 901-606-5330 OR JEFFREY GOLDBERG 901-606-7542

Memphis

kickit5k.raceroster.com SPECIAL PROMOTION

2 0 2 5 PA R T N E R S I N P H I L A N T H R O PY | PA I D A DV E RT I S I N G GIVING GUIDE

J E WI S H FO UN DAT I OF M EM P HIS 6560 Poplar Avenue ADDRESS

901-374-0400

www.jcpmemphis.org

@jcp

6560 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38138 PHONE

901.374.0400

T OWEBSITE P EXECUTIVE jcpmemphis.org @jcpmemphis LAURA LINDER

President & CEO llinder@jcpmemphis.org BOARD MEMBERS • PACE COOPER | Chair • JASON SALOMON | Past Chair

Our History The Jewish Foundation was founded by visionary leaders to serve as a shared endowment building organization that could serve the needs of Memphis area synagogues, MISSION: The mission of the Jewish Foundation of Memphis is to build and social service organizations. Over its 30 year and sustainschools a vibrant Jewish community by encouraging charitable history, the hasbuilding established itself as of theMemphis “go-to” Jewish giving and supporting Foundation endowment activities organization for philanthropically minded families and today organizations. works with more than 500 fund holders, including 100 teen OUR HISTORY philanthropists. JFOM has also created a philanthropy funds.by The Jewish Foundation was founded

culture of legacy and endowment giving visionary leaders to serve as a shared across the entire Jewish community LinderARNEY | Vice Chair Finance • Laura LAWSON endowment building organization that through consistent and intentional President & CEO could serve the needs of Memphis area education and awareness building.

• llinder@jcpmemphis.org ELKAN SCHEIDT | Vice Chair Investment synagogues, schools and social service The Jewish Foundation of Memphis was created as a OUR UPCOMING FUNDRAISERS organizations. Over its 30 year history, the • LAURIE MESKIN | Chair Appointee resource for organizations andThe as Jewish a philanthropic partner for Foundation will celebrate Foundation has established itself as the MISSION • JUDY BOOKMAN donors their advisors. The offersoneducation, itsfoundation 30th Anniversary December 10, “go-to” organization for and philanthropically “L’chaim to Legacy.” minded familiestraining, and today works withoversight,2025 investment andwith technical expertise forFund its • JAY COHEN The mission of th holders, professional advisors, and grantee more than 500 fund holders, including partner agencies.

For individuals and families, JFOM offers • AILEEN COOPER is to build and su organizations are welcome to attend.

100 teen philanthropy funds.

• CINDY FINESTONE | Secretary

Our Services

• JONATHAN EPSTEIN • SAM FARGOTSTEIN • RICK FOGELMAN • MARLENE GERSON • ELLIOT KIERSKY • REED LANDAU • EMILY LENNON

Jonathan Epstein B OARD • ALLA OLSWANGER-LUBIN Sam Fargotstein Pace Cooper

Rick Fogelman Chair • ANTHONY MORRISON Marlene Gerson Jason Salomon

Elliot Kiersky Reed Landau Emily Lennon Secretary JUDY ROYAL Alla Olswanger-Lubin Lawson Arney Anthony Morrison Vice Chair Finance SALLY ROSENBERGWendy Rotter Elkan Scheidt Judy Royal Vice Chair Investment Sally Rosenberg Laurie Meskin STACY SANDERSON Stacy Sanderson Chair Appointee Benjamin Wachtel Judy BookmanWACHTEL BENJAMIN Jeff Wallace Jay Cohen Aileen Cooper JEFF WALLACE

Past Chair • WENDY ROTTER Cindy Finestone

• • • • •

SPECIAL PROMOTION

personalized philanthropic planning through its various giving vehicles including Donor Advised Funds, DesignatedUS OTHER WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR SERVICES JewishOrganizations.

Foundation’s Professional The Jewish Foundation of Memphis Endowment Fundswas and FamilyThe Support

by encouraging c endowment build Advisory Group offers a place for local estateorganizations.

created as a resource for organizations and financial professionals can gather for and as a philanthropic partner for donors education and networking opportunities. and their advisors. The foundation offers education, training, investment oversight, Since our founding in 1995, the Jewish Foundation has OTHER OFFERINGS and technical expertise for its partner granted close to $200 million The withJewish the majority of dollars Foundation of Memphis has agencies. For individuals and families, expertise charitable gifts of cash, stock, JFOM offers personalized supportingphilanthropic Memphis nonprofits.

JFOMindonors have real estate, collectables,In privately held planning through its variousthousands giving supported of charitable organizations. stock and crypto currency. We also offer vehicles including Donor Advised addition, through its B’nai Tzedek Teen Philanthropy program programming and a bi-annual directory Funds, Designated Endowment Funds JFOM has trained the next generation of philanthropists. of our 100+person professional advisory and Family Support Organizations. group made upand of estate attorneys, CPA’s JFOM has also created a culture of legacy endowment and other financial professionals.

OUR IMPACT ON THE COMMUNITY giving across the entire Jewish community through Since our founding in 1995, the Jewish and and awareness building.

Areas Served Foundation hasconsistent granted close to intentional $200 millioneducation Jewish Foundation of Memphis (JFOM) is with the majority of dollars supporting the endowment resource for all Memphis Memphis nonprofits. JFOM donors Jewish organizations and serves the have supported thousands of charitable philanthropic needs of Memphis Jewish organizations. In addition, its The Jewishthrough Foundation will celebrate its 30th Anniversary families whose grant B’nai Tzedek Teen Philanthropy program on December 10, 2025 with “L’chaim to Legacy.” making Fund supports hundreds of charities locally and globally.

JFOM has trained the next generation of

Our Impact on the Community

AREAS SERV

Jewish Foundatio endowment reso organizations an of Memphis Jew supports hundre

YEAR FOUN 1995

Our Upcoming Fundraisers

Other Offerin

holders, professional advisors, and grantee organizations are welcome to attend.

Other Ways to Support us

The Jewish Foundatio charitable gifts of cas privately held stock a programming and a bi professional advisory

NG

AT ION @jcpmemphis

ISSION

e mission of the Jewish Foundation of Memphis o build and sustain a vibrant Jewish community encouraging charitable giving and supporting dowment building activities of Memphis Jewish ganizations.

REAS SERVED

wish Foundation of Memphis (JFOM) is the dowment resource for all Memphis Jewish ganizations and serves the philanthropic needs Memphis Jewish families whose grant making pports hundreds of charities locally and globally.

EAR FOUNDED

YEARS 1995 - 2025

95

er Offerings

wish Foundation of Memphis has expertise in ble gifts of cash, stock, real estate, collectables, y held stock and crypto currency. We also offer mming and a bi-annual directory of our 100+person ional advisory group made up of estate attorneys,

SPECIAL PROMOTION

GIVING GUIDE

ABOUT US ANNUAL REVENUE: $6.6M EMPLOYEES: 66 ESTABLISHED: 1916 SOURCES OF FUNDING

City - 9.5% Earned Income - 21% Contributed Income - 60.5% Endowment - 9% ADDRESS

Open in Overton Park 1934 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104 PHONE

901.544.6200 WEBSITE

Zoe Kahr Executive Director

Photo Credit: Lucy Garrett

brooksmuseum.org facebook.com/brooksmuseum instagram.com/brooksmuseum/

LEADERSHIP Zoe Kahr Executive Director Jennifer Draffen Director of Collections, Exhibitions & Publications Kathy Dumlao Director of Education & Interpretation Bethann Easterly Executive Assistant & Board Liaison Patricia Daigle Chief Curator Johnny Hill Director of Security and Facilities Jeff Rhodin Chief Revenue Officer Shawn Taylor Director of Finance Melissa Whitby Chief Development Officer Marciana Broiles Senior Director of Financial Planning & Operations

SPECIAL PROMOTION

MISSION & VISION: We create joy through the power of art.

At the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, every act of generosity helps transform lives through the power of art.

Together, we make a difference by: Elevating the Arts Your gift sustains Memphis’ world-class collection of more than 10,000 works spanning five millennia of global creativity.

Your generosity brings these artworks to life by fueling exhibitions that connect people to art in meaningful, lasting ways.

Enriching the Community We are Memphis’ art museum, a place where creativity and community meet.

Through your support, the museum remains a welcoming, inclusive space

B OARD Carl Person Chair Owner - Customized Solutions Milton Lovell Vice Chair President & Chief Investment Officer - Element40 Management Mat Parker, Jr. Treasurer Managing Director - Head of Hilltop Securities Bank Solutions Tanya Hart Secretary Chief Human Resources Officer - First Horizon Belinda Anderson Independent Event Planner Sol Aponte Co-Founder - Art Melanated Jenna Bedsole SVP General Counsel, and Secretary AutoZone Nathan A. Bicks Attorney - Burch, Porter & Johnson, PLLC Gloria Boyland Community Volunteer

Chiquilla Brown Registered Nurse & Adjunct Clinical Instructor - Baptist University Nelda Burroughs Co-Owner - First Choice Sales & Marketing Group Kristi Carmichael Community Volunteer Rob Carter Community Volunteer Trevia Chatman President - Bank of America Memphis Erica Coopwood Community Volunteer Mary Lee Copp Community Volunteer Deborah Craddock Community Volunteer Brandice Daniel CEO - Harlem’s Fashion Row Sonia Eden Neurosurgeon - Semmes Murphey Clinic Oxford

that celebrates our city’s creative spirit.

Each year, more than 400 programs invite people of all ages to connect through art, from family days that spark imagination and hands-on art-making for adults to fashion events, gallery talks, tours, and countless shared moments of discovery.

Advancing Education Art education opens minds and expands possibilities. Each year, your city’s art museum engages more than 20,000 students, many from Title I schools, through free tours, hands-on learning, and teacher partnerships. Your contribution empowers the next generation to think critically, feel deeply, and imagine boldly.

Derek Fordjour Artist - Fordjour Studio Adam Hanover CEO - Union Main Group Debi Havner Community Volunteer Rodney Herenton Founder & Co-CEO - Channing Capital Management Barbara R. Hyde Chair & CEO - Hyde Family Foundation Linda Ivy-Rosser Vice President - Forrester Research Greg Jackson Director of IT Technical Services International Paper Jay Keegan President & CEO - Adams Keegan Kim MacQueen Community Volunteer Shanea McKinney Clinical Account Manager - Cigna Pharmacy

Logan Meeks President Principal - A2H Sylvia Richey Chief Medical Officer - West Cancer Center Logan Scheidt Real Estate Broker - Crye-Leike Real Estate Gail Schledwitz Community Volunteer Melyne Strickland Johson & Johnson Jason Wexler President - Memphis Grizzlies David Willmott Co-Founder - Collins Willmott & Co. Tate Wilson Chief Executive Officer - Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation Amy Wright Co-Founder & CEO - Macro Solutions/ Ditty TV Gail George (ex-officio) Member - Decorative Arts Trust

Gustina Atlas (b. 1937), Variation on Dresden Plate Quilt, 1998. Cotton; machine pieced, hand quilted, 81 1/2 x 80 inches. Collection of the Mississippi Museum of Art, Jackson, Gift of the Kohler Foundation, Inc., 2022.9.13. Photo: Gib Ford

OF SALT 9.26 1.4.26

AND SPIRIT

Black Quilters in the American South

Presented in Memphis by First Choice Global Sales & Merchandising Group, Cathy Ross, and the Black Art Collective

BrooksMuseum.org | Open in Overton Park

SPECIAL PROMOTION

GIVING GUIDE

ABOUT US NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: Nearly 800 ESTABLISHED: 1923 ADDRESS

6895 Stage Road, Memphis, TN 38133 PHONE

901.323.6221 WEBSITE

GoodwillMemphis.org MemphisGoodwill MemphisGoodwill memphis-goodwill-inc-/ MemphisGoodwillInc

E XECUTIVE LE ADERSHIP

Tony Martini CEO and President Tina Blackmon SVP, Operations Ron Schuyler SVP Chief Mission & Education Officer Ursula Roman VP, Marketing & Communications Latisha Robertson VP of Contract Services Lori Strickland VP of Human Resources Chuck Molinski VP of Corporate & Community Engagement Charles Barnes Deacon Bill Davis Chad M. Harrell Terri Landwehr Andy McClelland Melanie Myers-Bland Michael Robilio Macky Sneed Brandon Tolbert Dr. Patrick Washington Amy Weirich SPECIAL PROMOTION

MISSION Our mission is to change the lives of people with disabilities and other barriers to employment through the power of work, education, and empowerment.

GOALS Goodwill has proudly served the Mid-South for over 100 years. We are committed to creating even more job and mission opportunities through our Donated Goods Operations, Contract Services, and The Excel Center — a free high school for adults.

FUNDRAISING EVENTS We fundraise 363 days a year through our network of retail stores and attended donation centers. Sales from donated goods help employ nearly 800 people locally.

In 2024 alone, we received over 634,000 material donations — a testament to the community’s generosity.

GIVING OPPORTUNITIES Supp or t Goodw il l year-round w ith donations of clothing, household goods, furniture, books, vehicles, and more.

We also partner with Dell Reconnect to responsibly recycle computers, printers, and other electronics — keeping e-waste out of landfills and supporting our mission.

CHANGE ROUND-UP Goodwill shoppers can “round up” their purchases and donate their spare change to a good cause. Those quarters, nickels, dimes, and pennies really do add up!

END-OF-YEAR GIVING As 2025 comes to a close, remember to take advantage of year-end giving opportunities.

Your financial contributions and donations help us continue to transform lives across the Mid-South.

SUPPORTING EDUCTION Memphis Goodwill sponsors The Excel Center for Adult Learners, an adults only high school for those who did not achieve their diploma. It offers free tuition, free transportation, free on-site child care, and career and post-secondary education counseling. It is open to residents of Shelby County 18 years and older. Graduates receive a fully accredited Shelby County Schools diploma. Its goal is to offer adults who dropped out of high school the opportunity to achieve the education, lifecoaching, empowerment, and self-esteem to move into living-wage employment and away from public assistance. This program was created by Goodwill Industries and serves as a model school system nationwide.

Although state credits provide the primary funding for the school, without considerable philanthropy the model is unsustainable.

To learn more about our mission go to GoodwillMemphis.org.

Learn to Excel 1,600 + Diplomas

awarded since May 2025

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of Excel Graduates

of students surveyed* are employed or enrolled in college

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High school dropout numbers are increasing, and our results are growing, too. At The Excel Center Memphis, operated by Goodwill Excel Center Midsouth, Inc., we offer hope to Shelby County students who dropped out of high school and now want an opportunity to earn their full diploma. We operate under contract with Memphis Shelby County Schools for area adults ages 18 and older, and we’re focused on helping our students graduate by providing: • Free on-site child care • Flexible scheduling • Accelerated (8-week) terms • Free college credits • Industry-recognized certifications • Free transportation • Life coaching

The Excel Center • 2576 Thousand Oaks Cove • (901) 726-3100 • ExcelCenterMemphis.org Connect with us on and @ExcelCenterMemphis SPECIAL PROMOTION

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ABOUT US ANNUAL GIFT REVENUE: $1.5 million NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: 194 ESTABLISHED: 1932 SOURCES OF FUNDING

Individuals: 88% Corporations: 4% Organizations: 3% Foundations: 5% LOCATION

1245 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104 PHONE

901.722.3250 WEBSITE

sco.edu @sco.edu/facebook @sco.edu/twitter @linkedin.com/school/southern-college-of-optometry

PRESIDENT Dr. Lewis Reich BOARD CHAIR Dr. Mark Kapperman BOARD MEMBERS Dr. Allan Barker Renee Brauns Dr. Betty Harville Brown Dr. Darby Chiasson Dr. Arthur R. Dampier Dr. Anita Davis Vicki Farmer Dr. Charles Glaser Dr. Charles W. Kinnaird Dr. James K. Kirchner Dr. Jennifer Lyerly Lynn Shaw, Sr. Dr. Stuart Tasman FACULT Y REPRESENTATIVE Dr. Marie Bodack STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE Emily Gibbons, ’27

SPECIAL PROMOTION

As one of only 26 optometry colleges in the United States, Southern College of Optometry is proud to serve as the only optometry college in the tri-state region serving Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas. SCO’s appeal, though, is more than regional; with 530 students coming to Memphis from 46 different states and Canada, no other optometry college in America can claim the geographic diversity that SCO represents.

Since its founding in Memphis back in 1932, the college has long enjoyed a reputation for providing its students with a strong clinical education. As a result, SCO’s graduates excel at national board scores, professional leadership, and providing the eye and vision care needs of patients across the nation. In all, more than 7,000 American optometrists received their diploma from SCO. OUR IMPACT ON MEMPHIS INCLUDES: • Providing a major boost to the Memphis economy, with a 2024 economic impact report showing that SCO’s mission results in the creation of more than 1,136 jobs, with a direct economic impact of $179 million dollars.

• Operating two clinical eyecare facilities, both of which are open to the public in Memphis.

• Each year, SCO sees more than 50,000 patients at The Eye Center on SCO’s campus, and at the college’s FocalPoint location on the second level of Crosstown Concourse.

• Aiding the education of optometry students, these patient care facilities serve a dual purpose by meeting the vision care needs of a large segment of the Memphis population.

• Caring for school children throughout Shelby County, SCO’s school screening program helps identify and treat vision problems in children at an early age, in turn improving academic performance once sight has been corrected.

SCO is finalizing a campus master plan as well as working to identify funding opportunities to strengthen the college’s stature as a national leader in optometric education. Longer term, the college intends to enhance its campus facilities, improve safety, and work to sustain SCO’s presence into its second century of training optometrists from across the nation.

A majority of SCO’s employees supports an annual campaign to fund college programs. SCO’s Development Team also engages alumni, ophthalmic industry partners, and other donors to secure funding in support of student scholarships and other initiatives.

At the community level, donors may support SCO’s “I Care for Kids” children’s vision program. This program provides vision care to children who could not otherwise afford services. Supporters may use Kroger Community Awards to designate SCO as a charity of choice.

T O C

Tennessee’s Optometry College SCO’s 530 students come to Memphis from 46 states and Canada, the most geographic representation of any optometry college in the country.

sco.edu

SPECIAL PROMOTION

S I P S

Red Sauce

Steven Burns feels right at home at Cocozza East.

BY BRUCE VANW YNGARDEN

a few years, which is where I started bartending. Then I went to Jim’s Place East for another five or six years, and followed that up with a stint at Ya Ya’s in Germantown. Finally, I moved to the Half Shell, and I was there for 15 years, from 2010 to 2025.”

Deni and Patrick Reilly opened the Majestic Grille on South Main Street in 2005 and the first Cocozza location, in Harbor Town, in 2020. Cocozza East opened in June of this year.

Steven Burns with a “Sour Cherry Negroni.”

M

any years ago, I thought I wanted to be a chef, and so I went off to culinary school in Charleston, South Carolina. But after a year, I decided it just wasn’t for me. I didn’t want to do that for a living, but I did love the restaurant business, so I guess I weaseled my way into becoming a bartender.”

The road to becoming a bartender was a long and winding one for Steven Burns, who got his start in the food trade as a server at Corky’s BBQ in New Orleans, of all places.

“I needed a job and saw that they had an opening” he says. “I thought, well, I’m from Memphis so they have to hire me — and they did.” That was in the 1990s, after Burns had

graduated from French Camp Academy in Mississippi and spent a couple of years attending classes at Ole Miss and the University of Memphis.

Corky’s turned out to be a good fit, so much so that it brought him back to his hometown.

“I came back to Memphis and opened a Corky’s in Cordova,” Burns says. “Then I worked at Coletta’s on Appling Road for

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Fifteen years is a long time to work at a single place in the restaurant business, but it was a good match for Burns.

“The Half Shell is such a Memphis staple, I thought, ‘This is it. This is where I want to be.’ I liked the bar’s feel, the neighborhood, everything they were doing. It was a great 15 years, but I eventually wanted to move more into the management side, and Cocozza was opening a new store and looking for a bar manager.”

The change has been a very good one, says Burns. Owners Deni and Patrick Reilly opened the Majestic Grille on South Main Street in 2005 and the first Cocozza location, in Harbor Town, in 2020. Cocozza East opened in June of this year.

“Deni and Patrick are building a culture of family out here,” says Burns. “They want us to be a neighborhood joint. We want people to walk in and become familiar faces. We offer really good food and service, and it’s a nice, comfortable place to get pasta and a glass of wine. We’re not overdone. Like our slogan says, we want Cocozza to be ‘the red sauce joint of your dreams.’”

Burns seems very much at home behind the small bar near the entrance of his new joint. “I love making drinks and talking

to people and seeing them having a good time,” he says. “I like to get to know new people, maybe crack a couple jokes. … I have some really bad ones,” he admits.

I’m tempted to ask Burns to tell me one, but decide discretion is probably called for, and turn the conversation to, well, booze.

“Our ‘Tequila Spritz’ is really popular,” Burns says. “We make it with lime, fresh mint, St. Germain, which is an elderberry liqueur, Prosecco, club soda, and tequila, of course.”

“That sounds great, but this is for our November issue, so what about something for a cold, dark Memphis evening?” I ask.

“I’d suggest our ‘Sour Cherry Negroni,’” says Burns, not missing a beat. “It’s one of our signature drinks, made with sour cherry gin, sweet vermouth, and Cappelletti, which is a kind of a bitter aperitif. We serve it with a Luxardo cherry, instead of the traditional orange wedge.

It’s got a nice tart flavor and a really good balance. It’s our play on a traditional Negroni. Would you like to try one?”

“Sure. Sounds like a winner.”

After a couple of minutes, Burns sets the drink on the simple Formica bar top. It’s pretty — a lush, deep-red concoction resting in a shiny coupe glass. At first sip, you notice the slightly thick texture with hints of sour cherry and a pleasant light bitterness.

Then you notice how it warms the innards as you savor it.

Maybe this is the red sauce of my dreams, I think. Nah. But there’s no doubt that this ruby cocktail would be a good drink to savor by a crackling fireplace. Or with a plate of pasta at the casual little bar at Cocozza East that’s managed by Steven Burns. Tell him you want the red sauce.

Cocozza East, 919 S. Yates Rd. PHOTOGRAPH BY BRUCE VANWYNGARDEN

10/7/25 4:35 PM

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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, $-$$ FLAME RAMEN—Traditional Japanese ramen restaurant serving Mateo Gonzales, server/bartender, up bowls of noodles. 61 S. Second St. 441-6686. L, D, wheelchair Porch & Parlor Prime Steakhouse in Overton Square accessible, $-$$ FLIGHT RESTAURANT & WINE BAR—Steaks and seafood, with such specialties as bison ribeye and Muscovy duck, all emphis Magazine offers this curated restaurant listing matched with appropriate wines. 39 S. Main. 521-8005. D, SB, MRA, as a service to our readers. Broken down alphabetically by neighborhoods, $-$$$ this directory does not list every restaurant in town. It does, however, FLYING FISH—Serves up fried and grilled versions of shrimp, crab, fish tacos, and catfish; also chicken and burgers. 105 S. Second. include the magazine’s “Top 50” choices of must-try restaurants in Memphis, oysters, 522-8228. L, D, $-$$ a group that is updated every August. Establishments open less than a year GARDEN BRUNCH CAFÉ—Fish and grits, steak and eggs, and other upscale takes on Southern brunch classics. 492 S. Main St. are not eligible for “Top 50” but are noted as “New.” This guide also includes a 249-7450. B, L, $$ representative sampling of other Bluff City eating establishments. No fast-food THE GENRE—Burgers, tenders, catfish, and plenty of vegan options facilities or cafeterias are listed. Restaurants are included regardless of whether made to order at this music-themed restaurant/lounge. 200 Poplar, Suite 105. 410-8169. B, L, D, $-$$ they advertise in Memphis Magazine; those that operate in multiple locations are listed GOOD FORTUNE CO.—Authentic handcrafted noodles, ramen, under the neighborhood of their original location. This guide is updated regularly, and dumplings. 361 S. Main. 561-306-4711. L, D, $-$$ but we recommend that you call ahead to check on hours, prices, or other details. THE GOURMET GALLERY—A variety of elevated comfort dishes, like fried ribs and waffles, shrimp and grits, grilled salmon, and more. Closed Suggestions from readers are welcome: dining@memphismagazine.com.

Mon. 412 S. Main St. 848-4691. L, D, $-$$$ GROOVY GRATITUDE—Offers a vibrant selection of cold-pressed juices, handcrafted smoothies, and healthy eats like paninis and acai DOWNTOWN BRASS DOOR IRISH PUB—Irish and New-American cuisine includes bowls. Closed Sun. 605 N. Second St. 417-8007. B, L, WB, $ such entrees as fi sh and chips, burgers, shepherd’s pie, all-day Irish ALDO’S PIZZA PIES—Serving gourmet pizzas — including Mr. GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN—Serves chicken breakfast, and more. 152 Madison. 572-1813. L, D, SB, $-$$ T Rex — salads, and more. Also 30 beers, bottled or on tap. 100 S. with signature spicy batter, along with homemade beans, slaw, and

BY THE BREWERY—Breakfast and lunch café, with a focus on Main. 577-7743; 752 S. Cooper. 725-7437. L, D, $-$$ pies. 310 S. Front. 527-4877; 3100 Forest Hill Irene (Germantown).

Southern-style biscuits, salads, and soups. 496 Tennessee St. 310-4341.

AMELIA GENE’S—Globally inspired fine-dining cuisine at the 853-6005; 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 373-9111; 730 S. B, L, $ One Beale project, including Rohan duck, Wagyu filet, and an Mendenhall. 767-2323; 505 Highway 70 W., Mason, TN. 901-294-2028.

CAPRICCIO GRILL ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE— extensive cheese cart. 255 S. Front. 730-7650. D, $$-$$$ L, D, MRA, $ Offers prime steaks, fresh seafood (lobster tails, DINING SYMBOLS THE ARCADE—Memphis’ oldest cafe. Specialties include sweet HIVE BAGEL & DELI—Bagels, bagels, and grouper, mahi mahi), pasta, and several Northern Italian potato pancakes, a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, and more bagels at this new downtown deli B — breakfast specialties. 149 Union, The Peabody. 529-4199. B, L, D, breakfast served all day. 540 S. Main. 526-5757. B, L, MRA, $ offering baked goods, sandwiches, and salads.

SB, MRA, $-$$$$ L — lunch ARNOLD’S SMOKEHOUSE—A classic smokehouse with vegan Closed Mon./Tue. 276 S. Front St. 509-2946.

CAROLINA WATERSHED—This indoor/outdoor D — dinner and nonvegan options seasoned to perfection. Closed Mon. 2019 E. B, L, $ eatery, set around silos, features reimagined down-home Person Ave. 922-5950. L, D, SB, $-$$$ SB — Sunday brunch HU. ROOF—Rooftop cocktail bar serves toasts with classics, including fried green tomatoes with smoked WB — weekend brunch AUTOMATIC SLIM’S—Longtime downtown favorite specializes in a variety of toppings including beef tartare with cured catfi sh, a buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, burgers, contemporary American cuisine emphasizing local ingredients; also egg, cognac, and capers or riced cauliflower with yellow and more. Closed Mon.-Thurs. 141 E. Carolina. 321-5553. MRA — member, Memphis extensive martini list. 83 S. Second. 525-7948. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$ curry, currants, and almonds. Also salads, fish tacos, Restaurant Association L, D, WB, $-$$ BARDOG TAVERN—Classic American grill with Italian influence, and boiled peanut hummus. 79 Madison. 333-1229. $ — under $15 per person CATHERINE & MARY’S—A variety of pastas, Bardog offers pasta specialties such as Grandma’s NJ Meatballs, as well without drinks or desserts D, $ grilled quail, pâté, razor clams, and monkfi sh are as salads, sliders, sandwiches, and daily specials. 73 Monroe. 275-8752.

HUSTLE & DOUGH BAKERY & CAFE— among the dishes served at this Italian restaurant in the $$ — under $25 B (Mon.-Fri.), L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$ Flaky, baked breakfast goodness every day with Chisca. 272 S. Main. 254-8600. D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ $$$ — $26-$50 BELLE TAVERN—Serving elevated bar food, including a butcher board fresh pastries, sandwiches, and more at Arrive Hotel.

CHEZ PHILIPPE—Classical/contemporary $$$$ — over $50 with a variety of meats and cheeses, as well as daily specials. 117 Barboro 477 S. Main St., 701-7577. B, L, $ French cuisine with Asian and Nordic infl uences, Alley. 249-6580. L (Sun.), D, MRA, $ ITTA BENA—Southern and Cajun-American cuisine presented in a luxurious atmosphere with seasonal BEN YAY’S GUMBO SHOP—Spiritual successor to DejaVu, offering served here, located above B.B. King’s Blues Club on Beale St.; specialtasting menus from chef Keith Clinton. Afternoon tea served Thu.-Sun., fresh and authentic Creole staples. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111. ties are duck and waffles and shrimp and grits, along with steaks, chops, noon-3:30 p.m. (reservations required). Closed Sun.-Tues. The Peabody, 779-4125. L, D, $-$$ seafood, and pasta. 145 Beale St. 578-3031. D, MRA, $$-$$$ 149 Union. 529-4188. D, MRA, $$$$ BISCUITS & JAMS—Offering sweet and savory brunch with a Cajun JEM DINING—Chef Josh Mutchnick offers a dining experience CIMAS—It’s breakfast tacos, shrimp and grits, chilaquiles verdes, and flare. Specialties include smoked sausage or spicy fried chicken on that’s memorable, refined, unpretentious, and welcoming with plenty of other Southern and Latin-American twists at the Hyatt Centric. biscuits, lemon blueberry waffles, and rum custard French toast. No dishes from around the world. Closed Sun./Mon./Tue. 644 Madison Ave. 33 Beale St. 444-3232. B, L, D, $-$$$ walk-ins on weekends. 24 N. B.B. King Blvd. 672-7905. B, L, WB, $-$$ 286-1635. D, $$-$$$

M E M PH I S

D I N I N G

G U I D E

We celebrate our city’s community table and the people who grow, cook, and eat the best Memphis food at M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M / F O O D 88 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 5

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OVERTON SQUARE PHOTOGRAPH BY JUSTIN FOX BURKS

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

10/10/25 10:44 AM

MEMPHIS DINING GUIDE

KINFOLK—Breakfast with a side of nostalgia in Harbor Town.

Specialties include biscuit sandwiches, steak and omelet plate, and brown butter mushrooms with jammy egg over grits. 111 Harbor Town Square location temporarily closed for repairs; offering Sunday pop-ups at HARD TIMES DELI. 457-5463. B, L, SB, WB, $-$$ KING & UNION BAR GROCERY—Classic Southern favorites including catfish plate, pimento cheese, po-boys, chicken & waffles. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with cocktails served with flair and favorite Memphis beers. Locally made confections available in the grocery. 185 Union Ave. 523-8500. B, L, D, $-$$ 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, 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, $-$$ SABOR CARIBE—Serving up “Caribbean flavors” with dishes from Colombia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Closed Sunday. 662 Madison. 949-8100. L, D, $ SAGE—Restaurant and lounge features daily lunch specials and tapas with such dishes as braised short ribs, teriyaki pulled pork, and the Sage burger made with Angus beef, avocado mash, fried egg, and flash-fried sage. 94 S. Main. 672-7902. L, D, WB, $-$$

Fresh USDA prime steaks make a lasting impression.

Contact the Humphrey’s team and we’ll take care of everything.

901.328.2245 HumphreysMemphis.com/CorporateGifts

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N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 89

MEMPHIS DINING GUIDE

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). 7543885; 77 S. Second (downtown). 527-2700; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville).

854-4455; 7090 Malco Blvd. (Southaven). 662-349-7097; 7825 Winchester. 624-8911; 4872 Poplar. 682-7729; 7677 Farmington Blvd.

(Germantown). 318-3030; 8570 Highway 51 N. (Millington). 873-5025.

L, D, 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, $-$$ THE LIQUOR STORE—Renovated liquor store turned diner serves all-day breakfast, sandwiches, and entrees such as Salisbury steak and smothered pork chops. 2655 Broad. 405-5477; 669 S. Mendenhall Rd. (East Memphis). B, L, D, $-$$ 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). 7532218; 797 W. Poplar (Collierville). 861-7800; 5627 Getwell (Southaven).

662-536-1364. L, D, $-$$

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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, $-$$ 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 N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 5 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 91

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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, $-$$$ CAPITAL GRILLE—Known for its dry-aged, hand-carved steaks; among the specialties are bone-in sirloin, and porcini-rubbed Delmonico; also seafood entrees and seasonal lunch plates. Closed for lunch Sat.Sun. Crescent Center, 6065 Poplar. 683-9291. L, D, $$$-$$$$ CASABLANCA—Lamb shawarma is one of the fresh, homemade specialties served at this Mediterranean/Moroccan restaurant; fish entrees and vegetarian options also available. 5030 Poplar. 725-8557; 1707 Madison. 421-6949. L, D, $-$$ 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, $-$$$ HEN HOUSE—Hybrid wine/cocktail bar and tasting room with plenty of cosmopolitan eats. Closed Sun. 679 S. Mendenhall. 499-5436. D, $-$$$ HIGH POINT PIZZA—Serves a variety of pizzas, subs, salads, and sides. Closed Mon. A neighborhood fixture. 477 High Point Terrace.

452-3339. L, D, $-$$ HOG & HOMINY—The casual sister to Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen serves brick-oven-baked pizzas, including the Red-Eye with pork belly, and small plates with everything from meatballs to beef and cheddar hot dogs; and local veggies. Closed for lunch Mon. 707 W. Brookhaven Cir. 207-7396. L, D, SB, MRA. $-$$$ 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, $-$$ LITTLE ITALY EAST—New York-style pizzas galore and homemade pasta. Closed Sun. 6300 Poplar Ave., Ste. 113. 729-7432. L, $-$$ 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, $-$$ MOSA ASIAN BISTRO—Specialties include sesame chicken, Thai calamari, rainbow panang curry with grouper fish, and other Pan Asian/ fusion entrees. Closed Mon. 850 S. White Station Rd. 683-8889. L, D, MRA, $ NAM KING—Offers luncheon and dinner buffets, dim sum, and such specialties as fried dumplings, pepper steak, and orange chicken. 4594 Yale. 373-4411. L, D, $ NAPA CAFE—Among the specialties are miso-marinated salmon over black rice with garlic spinach and shiitake mushrooms. Closed Sun. 5101 Sanderlin, Suite 122. 683-0441. L, D, MRA, $$-$$$ 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, $

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MEMPHIS DINING GUIDE

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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). 8720849; 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, $-$$ EL MERO TACO—This food truck turned restaurant serves up Mexican and Southern-style fusion dishes, including fried chicken tacos, chorizo con papas tacos, and brisket quesadillas. 8100 Macon Station, Suite 102. 308-1661. Closed Sun.-Mon. L, D, WB, $ POKÉ WORLD—Serves up Hawaiian poké bowls filled with rice and diced, raw fish. Also offers Taiwanese bubble tea and rolled ice cream for dessert. 1605 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 111. 6237986. East Memphis: 575 Erin Dr. 779-4971. L, D, $ PETALS OF A PEONY—Authentic Sichuan cuisine, from crispy duck to peony fried chicken. Be prepared for spice! 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy. 787-8886. L, D, $-$$ 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, $$$

MEMPHIS DINING GUIDE

GERMANTOWN BLUE HONEY BISTRO—Entrees at this upscale eatery include brown butter scallops served with Mississippi blue rice and herbcrusted beef tenderloin with vegetables and truffle butter. Closed Sun. 9155 Poplar, Suite 17. 552-3041. D, $-$$$ FIRST WATCH—Fresh, made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch creations. 7810 Poplar. 665-5590. B, WB, L, $-$$ 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, $ 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, $-$$ 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, $-$$$ 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, $-$$ CASINO TABLES CHICAGO STEAKHOUSE AT THE GOLDSTRIKE—1010 Casino Center Dr., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-24KSTAY / 662-357-1225 FAIRBANKS AT THE HOLLYWOOD—1150 Casino Strip Blvd., Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-871-0711 IGNITE STEAKHOUSE AT SOUTHLAND CASINO 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

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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L AS T

S TA N D

Silver Griz

An NBA team — and the culture it celebrates — marks a special milestone.

BY FR A NK MURTAUG H

Ja Morant

I

consider myself blessed to have family in several corners of the United States: Vermont, Seattle, New Orleans, and Hawaii. Whenever I visit any of these distinctive regions, one topic invariably comes up: the Memphis Grizzlies. Considering I live a short drive from the second-most visited home in the country, our NBA team being the ice-breaker of choice over Elvis Presley is rather significant. As the Grizzlies celebrate their silver anniversary in the Bluff City, it’s worth noting that we Memphians are as Beale Street Blue as our professional basketball team.

In September 1992 — my rookie “season” with Memphis Magazine — we devoted a cover story to the city’s pursuit of an NFL franchise. The issue included a comprehensive list of reasons Memphis was a perfect fit for the league’s 29th or 30th team, and copies were sent to the NFL commissioner’s office. Alas, today you can cheer on the Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars on fall Sundays, and the former Houston Oilers play in Nashville as the Tennessee Titans. But Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium remains a college-only facility.

(Go Tigers!) It felt like the best and last chance for Memphis to gain big-league status.

Then Michael Heisley came along. In 2001, the owner of the Vancouver Grizzlies identified Memphis as a better location for his six-year-old franchise to grow, a more attractive region for his team to be fully embraced.

(Yes, the promise of a new arena made three seasons in The Pyramid palatable for the move.) In what initially felt like an overnight love affair, a new marriage was announced between Memphis and — can it be? — the National Basketball Association. Honey, we are big-league.

Over the 24 seasons since the Grizzlies’ arrival, the culture of Memphis has changed, if not quite transformed. While the blues, barbecue, and yes, Elvis, re96 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 5

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main Mid-South touchstones treasured the world over, “Grit and Grind” are three words virtually every Memphian identifies with a basketball team that has yet to reach the NBA Finals. Three of the “core four” players who took the Grizzlies to the Western Conference final in 2013 — Zach Randolph, Marc Gasol, and Tony Allen — now have their jersey numbers hanging from the rafters at FedExForum. (Mike Conley will certainly join them when his playing career ends.) Public murals featuring Ja Morant — to date, the most electrifying player in franchise history — can be found in multiple parts of the city. Two former coaches — Hubie Brown and Lionel Hollins — have already been inducted into the Memphis Sports Hall of Fame.

And we’ve been paying attention. Our June 2015 cover story celebrated the culture of Grizzlies basketball. Shara Clark mentioned a favorite t-shirt she spotted one game night: “God-Family-Grizzlies.” Here in the American South, that’s Biblical stuff. Not once, but twice we’ve named a Grizzly player or players our Memphian of the Year (Gasol in 2015 and the entire team in 2022).

In early May 2013, I was in line at a local computer store to purchase a laptop for my high school-bound daughter. And in walked Allen, “the Grindfather” himself. The Grizzlies had just eliminated the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the NBA playoffs on their way to the franchise’s deepest run to date. Wearing no media credential, I was able to approach Allen, amid his small entourage, and congratulate him for the series victory. “I appreciate you,” he replied, with that slight, slanted smile Grizzly fans adore to this day. And then the six-time All-Defensive Team guard got in line behind me for computer service.

Maybe that’s where the Grizzlies have made their deepest impact on Memphis. They — the players, coaches, and much of the front office — feel as much of us as representing us. It’s a “We are them” vibe. And this includes rocky seasons, and rocky headlines. Players have found themselves in legal hot water (Allen is one of them). There is citywide hand-sweating over the possibility of the franchise leaving Memphis if it doesn’t receive the kind of arena renovations a half-billion dollars might buy. And yes, we’d really like to see the NBA Finals played a block from Beale Street. The Grizzlies have won precisely one playoff series over the last ten years.

I’ve walked the streets of New Orleans recently, current home to one of my daughters. It’s an NBA city, sure, but it’s an NFL culture that pervades, the Saints’ iconic fleur-de-lis visible on every block, commercial or residential. Here in Memphis for a quarter-century, now, a grizzly bear is, somehow, the most celebrated animal, symbol, and idea. And what’s more valuable in this age of division and cross-culture clash? We are, indeed, the Memphis Grizzlies. We have the grind marks to prove it.

PHOTOGRAPH BY WES HALE

10/7/25 4:35 PM

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