T H E H I S T O R I C Blue & White Restaurant
MAGAZINE
OUR OCTOBER GHOSTLY
GETAWAYS
STAX LEGEND DAVID PORTER
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David Yurman Boutique John Hardy Gurhan Roberto Coin Elizabeth Locke Penny Preville Hulchi Belluni Raymond Yard Antique Jewelry
The original Memphis family of fine jewelers 474 Perkins Extended, Memphis
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DAVID PORTER EXTREME OBSERVER
38 UP FRONT 10
FROM THE EDITOR
FEATURES 28
B Y A N N A T R AV E R S E
12 14 16 18 20 23
OUT AND ABOUT
B Y G R AC I E D R I V E R
CLASSIC DINING
BY MICHAEL DONAHUE
B Y VA N C E L AU D E R DA L E
BOOKS
B Y TO B Y S E L L S
B Y J E S S E DAV I S
B Y TO M J O N E S
901 HEALTH
B Y K A I LY N N J O H N S O N
HABITATS: A HAUNTED HOUSE LOVE STORY
An old farmhouse, a homemade Western town, and enough unexplained things to fill a “Ghost Log.”
ASK VANCE
CITY JOURNAL
RING MASTER
The big life and long legacy of citizen Ken Neill. B Y H A M P TO N S I D E S
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38
45
EXTREME OBSERVER
At almost 85, Porter is still — as he would say — deeping it.
TRAVEL
72
BY MICHAEL DONAHUE
80
Venture into the Mid-South’s spookiest spots this fall. A N D C H R I S M C C OY
55
LOCAL TREASURES: BALANCE IN THE UNIVERSE
LAST STAND INTERVIEW WITH A GHOST
The Orpheum’s resident spirit speaks to the media in an exclusive interview. B Y J O N W . S PA R K S
Carol Buchman and Roy Tamboli complement each other in art and in life.
SPECIAL SECTION
B Y J O N W . S PA R K S
70
CITY DINING
The city’s most extensive dining listings.
SIPS: TENNESSEE WHISKEY
At Old Dominick Distillery, the spirits and the bartender are both home-grown.
63
MEMPHIS MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER
B Y BRUCE VANW YNGARDEN
BY ALE X GREENE
ON THE COVER:
David Porter
PHOTOGRAPH: HOUSTON COFIELD
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Memphis Magazine (ISSN 1622-820x) is published monthly for $18 per year by Contemporary Media, Inc., P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 © 2026. Telephone: 901-521-9000. For subscription info, call 901-575-9470. Subscription customer service mailing address is Memphis Magazine, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101. All rights reserved. • Periodicals Postage Paid at Memphis, TN. Postmasters: send address changes to Memphis Magazine, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101.
OC T OBER 2026 • MEMPHISMAGA ZINE.COM • 7
9/18/26 1:42 PM
MAGAZINE
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anna traverse EXECUTIVE EDITOR michael finger
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THE 2026
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FACE
SENIOR EDITORS jon w. sparks,
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OF
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ORIENTAL RUGS
alex greene, chris mccoy CONTRIBUTORS
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kailynn johnson, tom jones, hampton sides, vance lauderdale
ART DIRECTOR hudd byard ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR christopher myers GRAPHIC DESIGNER neil williams PHOTOGRAPHERS
joel brodsky, justin fox burks, dick cockerell, houston cofield, michael donahue, gracie driver, vance lauderdale, frank murtaugh, phancy productions, toby sells,
Hand Cleaning Appraisals Sales Reweaving Repairs Color Run Restoration Pet and other Stain Removals Moth Damage Odor Removal and much more Spread love, not germs by having your rugs disinfected.
Master Weaver Ali Taghavi restoring an antique Persian Farahan rug.
Here at Taghavi’s, we would like to do our part to help stop the spread of the novel COVID-19 virus. Recent studies have shown that the virus can be brought into your home, by your shoes and can live on surfaces like your rugs and floors anywhere from two to nine days. In order to help curb the spread, we at Taghavi’s, recommend that you stop wearing your outdoor shoes into your homes and to have your rugs cleaned and disinfected. Quality rug cleaning can only be accomplished by in-store professional rug cleaners. Call us for disinfecting and cleaning of your rugs.
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Announcing
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OCTOBER 2026 We want to hear from you! letters@memphismagazine.com
member: City and Regional Magazine Association member: Circulation Verification Council
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
E
WHO KNOWS WHERE THE TIME GOES?
V E R Y Y E A R , the same shock: I look down for a moment in mid-summer; when I glance back up, somehow, it’s October, which means soon we’ll need to think about Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, a new year. So audacious, isn’t it, for time to keep urging us forward, the calendar to keep scrolling ahead? ¶ But first, before I find myself fast-forwarding, living at 2x speed — first, we get to slow down time in the deep breath of October, arguably the best and most lustrous month of them all. God, I love October — the air begins to crisp, the trees consider a wardrobe change, the dogs put on their undercoats. And we humans (or at least this human!) find ourselves pausing to consider what’s been left undone. Publishing a magazine 12 times a year will make a person keenly aware of time’s limitations. We don’t get all that many opportunities to present you with a new cover, a new collection of stories. Somehow, it’s October, and somehow, this magazine has been in production for 50 and one-half years now — and in that time, we’ve never once(!) featured David Porter on our cover. Until now! Porter, of course, is the legendary songwriter whose talents helped define the Stax era of Memphis music, and who has continued to write music and create opportunities throughout his almost 85 years. Think of it: The man has spanned such eras in Memphis as to have grown up with Booker T. Jones, written or co-written (often with Isaac Hayes) songs for Sam & Dave and Carla Thomas, and to have been sampled by folks you may have heard of, too, such as Mariah Carey and The Notorious B.I.G. Porter is, in
short, a big deal — and a big deal who has, for all of his fame and success, chosen to stay grounded in Memphis. We have an unwritten rule around our editorial table, you see: In order for us to write a cover story about a person, that person needs to maintain an active, ongoing relationship with our city. Routinely, we’re pitched stories about folks — interesting, talented, successful folks — who spent time in Memphis, but waved goodbye long before “making it.” No shade on those people, and we’re glad to count them as city alumni — because living here is, indeed, an education — but we focus our limited number of covers on those who continue choosing Memphis in one way or another. Oh, they don’t have to spend every waking moment in the same place — but if someone went to middle school in the 901 and hasn’t been back since, sorry, but we won’t be spotlighting that person on the cover of Memphis Magazine.
Speaking of people who spend every waking moment in the same place — we’ve got a few stories for you this month about souls who have taken that idea to the extreme, by refusing to leave, even beyond the limits of mortality. YES, I’m talking about ghosts. (It’s October, after all — spooky szn!) This month’s Habitats feature is about a very lovely and historic home — that just so happens to be, allegedly, quite haunted. As most ghost stories are, at their core, this one’s also a love story — don’t miss it. And, if you’re thinking about pausing your hectic autumn schedule for a road-trip respite, we have a couple ideas for places you can reach easily by car — and where you are liable to be greeted by even more ghosts. A spooky cave, a night at a spirit-filled hotel … fun times, but don’t say we didn’t warn you if a ghost hangs onto your bumper on the ride home. However you spend the fleeting days of October, I hope you find a few moments to slow down time (ideally with a magazine in hand!).
Anna Traverse editor
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Thee tr T Th ttrusted ruste ru t d re te rreal a estat al estate attee au at aauthority t ori th r tty in Memp ri Memphis m mphi h s since 1868
WILL ADAMS
ELIZABETH AMODEO
CATHLEEN BLACK PARTNER
JEFF BLAKENEY
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JOHN WEST
OUT AND ABOUT
OCTOBER 2026
(above) Memphis Tigers Football (opposite) Halloween Goat Yoga
COMPILED BY GRACIE DRIVER
REHARVEST MEMPHIS Project Green Fork and Clean Memphis are challenging 12 sustainable Memphis chefs to cook a winning dish from one “underutilized” ingredient. Crosstown Concourse, October 1, 5:30–8:30 p.m. FRANK HORTON CLASSIC AND TRAIL RACE This nighttime 2K and 5K race hosts elementary- and middle-school runners to raise money for Memphis Youth Athletics. Shelby Farms Cross Country Course, October 2, 4–9 p.m. SHADOWLANDS FESTIVAL OF FEAR Jones Orchard offers more than peaches. Get tickets to their haunting attractions if you dare. Jones Orchard, October 2-31
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PAINT MEMPHIS This nonprofit is hosting free art workshops for all ages as well as live paintings by 50+ local muralists. Broad Avenue between Summer and Holmes, October 3
MEMPHIS JAZZ FESTIVAL Local and nationally recognized jazz musicians will take over downtown Memphis for three days. Main Street, October 9–11
ZOO BOO Put on your favorite costume and explore the Memphis Zoo at night for a lighthearted and nostalgic Halloween. Memphis Zoo, October 3 and every weekend in October, 6–9:30 p.m.
READING RHYTHMS WITH FIREFLY CREATIVE You’d be surprised how interconnected reading and rhythm are. Performing-arts organizations make this class possible for 2- to 5-year-olds to participate in while overlooking the mighty Mississippi. Beale Street Landing, October 9, 10 -11:30am
BEGINNER DANCE CLASS We can’t imagine a better date idea than laughing through your first salsa dance class. Blue Suede Ballroom Dance Studio, October 6, 7–9:30 p.m. FALL MOVIE NIGHT Practical Magic makes a nostalgic and spooky appearance at Overton Square’s weekly fall movie series. Overton Square, October 8, 7–9 p.m.
MEMPHIS TIGERS FOOTBALL Oct. 10 vs. UAB, Oct. 22 vs. East Carolina, Oct. 31 vs. Army, Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium FOOD TRUCK GARDEN PARTY Flipside Asia, 901 Birria Station, Say Cheese, and more local food trucks will cater this month’s party complete with live music. Memphis Botanic Garden, October 14, 5–8 p.m. STADIUM PHOTOGRAPH BY FRANK MURTAUGH
9/18/26 10:59 AM
HI/LO Bar Limina is curating three thoughtful cocktails inspired by local art. Sheet Cake Gallery, October 15, 5:30–8:30 p.m. MEMPHIS CREATIVITY FEST Fashion, music, poetry, and yoga will all be explored with plenty of Comeback Coffee and Wapos pizza to go around. Cossitt Library, October 17, 12 noon-3 p.m. COOPER-YOUNG BEERFEST Midtown loves beer almost as much as they love their community. Every penny raised at this event will go back into the Cooper-Young Community Association. October 17, 1–5 p.m. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES BASKETBALL Oct. 21 vs. Utah, Oct. 31 vs. Sacramento, FedExForum, 7 p.m.
BAKING FOR CHOCOLATE LOVERS The Homemade Kitchen has chocoholics covered this month with a unique n view July 25 – baking class featuring muffins, brownies, and ovember 2026 cookies packed8, full of chocolate goodness. Muddy’s Bake Shop, October 23, 4 p.m. THE EMO NIGHT TOUR DJs will curate a killer mix of ’90s and early 2000s pop-punk and alternative music. Satellite Music Hall, October 24, 8 p.m.
This exhibition This exhibition is is organized by organized theby the National Gallery National Gallery of of Art, Washington. Art, Washington. MMA’s presentation MMA’s presentation is supportedisby supported by Teiger Foundation, Teiger Foundation, Visit Jackson, Visit Jackson, Southern Poverty Southern Poverty Law Center, Law Center, Baker Donelson, Baker Donelson, Bradley Arant Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, Boult Cummings, LLP, and LLP, and Clarion Ledger. Clarion Ledger.
Kwame Brathwaite, Kwame Brathwaite, Untitled (Portrait Untitled (Portrait of Manasie Ree of Manasie Ree Horn with Reels Horn with as Reels as Necklace) (detail), Necklace) (detail), c. 1970 (printed c. 1970 (printed later). Inkjet print, later). Inkjet print, 29 ½ x 29 ½ in29 ½ x 29 ½ in (74.9 x 74.9 cm). (74.9 x 74.9 cm). Collection of the Collection of the National Gallery Nationalof Gallery of Art, Gift Art, Gift of Funds On view July On 25 – of Funds view July 25 from Renée Harbers from Renée Harbers November 8, November 2026 8, 20 Liddell and Alfred Liddell and Alfred H. Moses andH.Fern Moses and Fern M. Schad Fund, M. Schad Fund, 2024.70.1. 2024.70.1. msmuseumart.org msmuseumart.org Downtown Jackson Downtown Jackson
OVERTON SQUARE OKTOBER FEST Traditional German foods will be paired with endless craft beer and German folk dancing. October 24, 12 noon–5 p.m. MEKONG MEMPHIS FESTIVAL Celebrate Southeast Asian culture through music, art, and especially food. Vietnamese Buddhist Association, October 25, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. HALLOWEEN GOAT YOGA Baptist Memorial Health Care is sponsoring quite possibly the cutest form of exercise to date. Overton Park Shell, October 25, 2–5 p.m. FIRE PIT FRIDAY Don’t forget your camp chairs at this wholesome Bartlett event, complete with hot chocolate and of course smores. W.J. Freeman Park, October 30, 6 p.m.–8 p.m.
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CLASSIC DINING
THE BLUE & WHITE RESTAURANT THE HISTORIC EATERY REMAINS “THE CENTER OF WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TUNICA. BY MICHAEL DONAHUE
E
AT I N G D E L I C I O U S home-made doughnuts at the Blue & White Restaurant was my earliest memory of the restaurant in Tunica, Mississippi. The recipes have changed over the years, but they are still making fresh doughnuts every day at the Blue & White, which celebrates its 102nd birthday this year. ¶ On a recent lunch visit — because the Blue & White is more than doughnuts — just about every table was full. Customers gathered around the buffet, which groaned with fried chicken, fish, salmon, and vegetables, among other items. The restaurant has a fresh look, thanks to new owners Lexi, Bryan, and Ivan Loza, all of whom are from Mexico. Buying the Blue & White in 2023 was “more the idea of my parents,” Lexi says. “They always wanted to have a business in the United States. That was like their dream.’’ The Loza family turned to Joe Weiss, a previous owner of the restaurant, for help. “We didn’t know anything about the Southern culture, so we had to learn a lot, like the food, and how you all eat here,” says Lexi. “Of course, it’s different from the food we eat in Mexico.” Among the novelties for the new owners? The restaurant’s “Donut Tower.” “It’s two of our standard glazed doughnuts,” Weiss says. “We put them in a pan with butter and caramelize the sugar. We stack those two doughnuts on
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the plate and fill the center with whipped cream. Then we add ice cream, chocolate syrup, and more whipped cream on top.” Born in Clarksdale, Mississippi, where he co-owns Stone Pony Pizza, Weiss still stops by the Blue & White to share suggestions. He also knows a lot about the restaurant’s history. It opened in 1924, but Weiss adds, “Just to keep the record straight, the first Blue & White was in Tunica, but it was on Old Highway 61, which ran through downtown. The new Blue & White wasn’t built until 1937. They moved from downtown when they opened the cafe and gas station here.” The original Blue & White was a Pure Oil station. They had a cafe and sold gas and some supplies, but Weiss says it was “basically just a service station.”
It only became the “Blue & White Restaurant” after moving to its present location when the new highway opened. Pure Oil’s colors are blue and white, hence the restaurant name. “The early pictures of this building from the outside are pretty much identical,” says Weiss. “Some changes were made in the ’50s. They added the big blue sign on top. That used to be a peaked top, but they made it a flat roof, so they could put the sign on it.” Weiss was president of Back Yard Burgers Inc. in Memphis before he and a business partner bought the Blue & White 25 years ago. “We basically did a complete remodel when we took it. It was time.” They changed the layout of the restaurant, which, at one time, housed a little cigar shop, a newspaper stand, and a Greyhound Bus stop. “The little window on the front was where you bought your ticket for the bus,” he says. “The Blue & White was the center of what was happening in Tunica.” Changes were made during various ownerships. “One owner, to compete with the casinos, put a pool table in what we call our dining room in the north end. He had a bar back then.” But, he says, “We took all of that out and went back to a family-style restaurant.” The restaurant still draws the diners. “The Blue & White has been crowded for, I think, 100 years,” he says. Its slogan, “See you at the Blue & White,” is very true. “This is the central location for anyone around here,” says Weiss, “and you’ll hear that over and over. ‘We need to sit down and talk about the price of beets. I’ll see you at the Blue & White.’” The buffet was added in the 1970s. Recipes for some of the buffet items have been passed down through generations of families. Many came from Alice Partee, who was the main cook when Weiss owned the restaurant. “We’ve had families that have worked at the Blue & White for three generations,” he says. Meanwhile, Lexi and her brothers are filling their role as the stewards of the beloved restaurant. “We just want to build the business,” she says, “and try to make it familiar, like a family diner. It’s been amazing. I’ve been hearing about how people met here and they later got married. A lot of other stories have come through this building, and I love that.” Blue & White Restaurant, 1355 Highway 61 North, Tunica, MS PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL DONAHUE AND DICK COCKERELL
9/18/26 8:58 AM
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Tr u s t e d b y G e n e r a t i o n s S i n c e 1 9 3 1
ASK VANCE
OUR HISTORY EXPERT SOLVES LOCAL MYSTERIES: WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, WHY, AND WHY NOT? WELL, SOMETIMES.
BRINKLEY FEMALE COLLEGE D E A R VA N C E : What became of the young girl who supposedly encountered a ghost at this old college — and for that matter, what happened to the school itself ? — R.B., Memphis. D E A R R . B . : The strange events at Brinkley Female College in 1871 created a sensation in Memphis, and newspapers devoted headlines for days to a story with all the elements of a classic Hollywood movie: a haunted mansion, the ghost of a little girl, and a midnight search for buried treasure. 16 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6
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My humble column doesn’t allow space for the complete story, with its baffling twists and turns, but I’ll give a summary before answering your questions. Let’s start with the location at 683 South Fifth Street. Today that’s a warehouse district, but in 1871, Desoto Street (as it was then called) was a prime residential area lined with grand homes. One of these was the old Davie place, erected by W.J. Davie in 1858. The two-story mansion, noted for its six fluted columns topped with cast-iron capitals, was home to the Brinkley Female College, a boarding school for some 40 students, advertised as “the largest college in Memphis, and the cheapest in the world.” Perhaps because of its gloomy setting, sitting atop a hill in a grove of ancient trees, or because of the rumor that old man Brinkley (the home’s second owner) had gone
insane, the school developed a reputation for being haunted. One that was without basis, it seems, until February 21, 1871. That Tuesday afternoon, Clara Robertson was practicing her piano lessons in a long hallway upstairs. The daughter of Joseph Robertson, a respected Memphis attorney, the 13-year-old student was later described by reporters as “intelligent and bright beyond her years, and full of simplicity, candor, and truthfulness.” Clara noticed another girl ascend the stairs at the end of the hall and slowly approach her. To her horror, “I saw it was not a living thing.” As reported in the Memphis Avalanche, the apparition was “in the shape of a little girl, with sunken eyes and deep black hair, but virtually a skeleton, clad in a tattered dress of faded pink, covered with a greenish mold.” At first paralyzed with fear, Clara fled downstairs and breathlessly told fellow students what she’d seen, but she was met with “belief, disbelief, and ridicule.” Those brave enough to venture upstairs saw no trace of the creature. The next morning, however, Clara was upstairs again, this time with other students and a teacher identified as Miss Jackie Boone, when they heard a curious sound “as if some-
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY MEMPHIS AND SHELBY COUNT Y ROOM, MEMPHIS PUBLIC LIBRARIES
9/12/26 12:08 PM
A S K VA N C E
(OPPOSITE) Brinkley Female College (RIGHT) Clara’s unmarked gravesite at Elmwood
one were dashing water to the floor.” Turning towards the noise, they saw the ghost at the end of a hallway. Gathering her courage, Clara asked what she wanted. Pointing out the window, the creature murmured, “Five feet under a stump are valuables that you should have,” looking at Clara. She added, “Don’t be afraid, Clara. My name is Lizzie Davie, and I will not harm you.” The teacher claimed she only heard “a rumbling sound,” but the girls said they heard the ghost describing a glass jar, containing deeds and other valuables. The ghost of Lizzie Davie? Old-timers recalled that after the Civil War, one of the young Davie girls had indeed died at a young age, and was buried in a pink dress — contrary to the usual custom that dead children were shrouded in white. News of these visitations swept the city, and front-page headlines declared, “Brinkley Female College Haunted and in an Uproar of Terror and Confusion.” The Avalanche called it “the most remarkable ghost story on record.” This didn’t sit well with the school principal, J.D. Meredith, who told reporters that “it was his firm belief that this visitation was simply an aberration of the mind” and, to put it bluntly, Clara “had no doubt gone crazy.” Well, there was one good way to prove Clara — and Lizzie — right or wrong: Someone should dig for the treasure. Late on a Sunday night, strong men went to the spot indicated by Lizzie. Any attempts at secrecy vanished when word spread that “they’re digging up the treasure!” and thousands jammed the road in front of the school. After a few hours, however, the searchers found nothing. Now — if you haven’t decided this already — the story really gets strange. All this time, Clara had sheltered at home, just a few blocks away. As she wandered around her backyard, nervously waiting for news from the diggers, the ghost suddenly materialized before her, instructing her, “You must go and seek the treasure yourself.” Her family brought her to the college, and the crowd went berserk. “The girl’s here — the girl who saw the ghost!” Sure enough, Clara stepped up to the diggers and told them to search in a different place nearby. This time, shovels crunched against something hard — apparently a brick vault. And lying within ... a glass jar. Inside were bags and packages. Were PHOTOGRAPH BY VANCE L AUDERDALE
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these the treasures? The mysterious deed? Well, the entire city would have to wait two months to find out. In another bizarre twist, Clara’s father announced that Lizzie had instructed his daughter to take the jar home and, 60 days later, they would open it on stage at the Greenlaw Opera House. Admission fee: $1 (close to $27 today). The money would compensate the girl for her ordeal, with half going to the Episcopal Church Home for Orphans. The director there declined this offer, saying he wanted nothing to do with “ghost money.” The Avalanche conveyed the city’s fascination with this bizarre affair: “All day long, and all through the night, the ghost was talked about wherever one chanced to go. Groups discussed the marvelous occurrences at almost every corner of the streets, and various were the theories suggested and the wonderful experiences related.” The “bizarre affair” finally came to an unexpected end. Just a week later, Robertson heard noises in the backyard of his home. He investigated, and a servant found him unconscious, a deep gash in his skull. When a doctor arrived, the attorney said that “four ruffians” had forced him to reveal the glass jar’s hiding place and then slugged him. He had concealed it in a safe place, he said — beneath the seat of the family’s outhouse! The treasure — if that what it was — was gone. No traces of the jar or its belongings were ever seen again. Right about here, most tellers of this tale bring it to an end, so finally — whew! — I can answer your questions, R.B. The old college closed within a year, unable to endure such a scandal, even after changing its name to Meredith College. After all, what decent family would send their children to a haunted school? The building stood empty before it was converted into a lodging house for railroad workers. It was demolished in 1972. The columns went to a farmer in Arkansas. This brings us to the fate of Clara Robertson. Many readers assumed that somehow her life returned to normal. Nope. Instead, Clara took to the stage, making public appearances where she told about her encounter with the ghost of Lizzie Davie. Her father published a booklet about the event, selling it after her talks: The Brinkley Female College Story. The Finding of the Mysterious Jar, Its Opening, and Contents. A Thrilling Narrative, Based Upon Facts. What’s more, Clara began to claim that she was a psychic, and began to hold public seances. Calling it a “Great Attraction!” an advertisement from the May 1, 1871, Memphis Daily Appeal proclaimed: “MISS CLARA ROBERTSON has kindly consented to appear upon this occasion in her TRANCE STATE, in which a most angelic
expression possesses her, beyond the power of language to describe.” This would be followed by an “Inspirational Lecture, Given upon the Holy Spirit, Angels, Devils, and Prophecy.” By now in her early 20s, she married John Zent, some 30 years older, who had come to Memphis from Philadelphia. He ran a saw mill here, and they moved to an area downtown called the Market Street Slums (demolished for the Lauderdale Courts public-housing project). Clara didn’t live long, dying on November 9, 1883, at age 25 of tuberculosis, during a visit to her father, then living in Wittsburg, Arkansas. She was laid to rest in Elmwood Cemetery, joined there by her husband in 1891, and a son, David, who died in 1940 after working for years as a clerk at Burke’s Book Store. Anyone visiting the Fowler section of Elmwood would find a small gravestone incribed “Zent.” But that’s for John Zent’s first wife, Mary. Nothing marks the final resting place of Clara Robertson, at one time one of the most famous people in our city. We’ll never know what really happened at Brinkley Female College in February 1871. Perhaps the whole affair was the desperate scheme of a lonely girl seeking attention. More likely, it was an elaborate hoax, conducted with the help of her father (her mother is never mentioned in the newspaper coverage). But to what end? How did they intend to profit from it — by “setting the stage,” so to speak, for a later career as a psychic and medium? Whether you believe in ghosts or not, it’s a dramatic story, for sure, but in the end, a sad one. O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 17
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BOOKS
ABOVE AND BEYOND
S
O M E T H I N G S C A N N O T be explained. They are, by their very nature, unknowable, indefinable. God and the nature of existence would, according to one Tennessee-based author, fall at the top of that inscrutable list. ¶ Varina Buntin Willse’s new book, Beneath and Between: And Other Overlooked Words That Illuminate God (Broadleaf Books), sets out, not to explain the unfathomable, but rather to track the writer’s search for her own peace with the beyond. The Nashville-based writer carved out time to speak with me by phone before her presentation at the Wild Goose Festival in Harmony, North Carolina, and a book-signing last month at Novel bookstore here in Memphis. ¶ “I think it’s important to note, and I say this in the introduction: I’m not a priest. I’m not a spiritual scholar. I wasn’t even a religion major,” Willse said, humility and humor both evident in her voice. “I’m just like most everybody else out there. I come to it from the pew, rather than the pulpit. ¶ “Or the woods, the meditation cushion,” she added with a laugh. “I think the benefit of that is that I’m not representing any institution, and I’m not out to convert.”
THE PONDER EFFECT Though Beneath and Between is Willse’s trade debut, she has written five books of narrative nonfiction, including Home to Us: Six Stories of Saving the Land, published in 2012, which profiles six families who chose to put their land under conservation easement. She also writes an ongoing Substack newsletter on faith and spirituality, an effort which began as a recurring blog. As with anyone who makes their living as a wordsmith, an uncertain proposition in these days of AI-generated content, Willse’s bread18 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6
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winning endeavors are equal parts practical practice and labor of love. It should come as no surprise, then, that Willse is a longtime devotee of the art of storytelling. “I have always been a lover of books,” she said. “When I was a little girl, I grew up out in the country north of Nashville, in Robertson County, and I spent a lot of time outdoors and a lot of time with books.” She remembers reading from an old hardcover copy of One Thousand Poems for Children, with the title embossed on the cover. “It had long lost its dust jacket, if it ever had one,” Willse said. “I’m closing my eyes and can feel it in my hands.” There was a whole chapter devoted to fairies, which she remembered loving, as well as ample
selections of poetry about the outdoors. The author cites that weathered tome as a cornerstone of her foundation as a reader and writer. She attended the Harpeth Hall School in Nashville, where Southern Book Prize-winning author and Chapter 16 founding editor Margaret Renkl was her teacher in both sophomore and junior years. “How much of a jackpot did I hit there?” Willse asked with a laugh. “She’s a poet at heart. She imparted so much wisdom to me.” Renkl taught her students the art of close reading. Willse remembers that her class was reading William Shakespeare’s King Lear when Renkl reminded students to look out for patterns and themes, to hear a bell go off in their minds when they saw certain words. Those words always meant more than just their dictionary definitions. Beyond learning to read and write well, Willse was also learning to hone her skills of
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of concentration. For a student who regularly attended book events recreationally and, in her own words, admired authors the same way her peers “worshipped rockstars,” the lessons in attentiveness and in a poet’s care with diction amounted to a sort of Southern writer’s Jedi training. “I think a lot of it is about attentiveness,” she said. “I’m a very slow reader.” The intentional practice of attentiveness is something that long predates Willse’s newest books, with roots to childhood poetry readings and nature walks, adolescence studying the art of close reading, and forms the foundation of her Substack newsletter, the Ponder Effect. “Pondering is a practice that requires slowing down. So much good stuff requires slowing down,” she said. “Our pace and our technologies would like to carry us quickly down the stream. I’m always interested in living profoundly, and that requires, when possible, not choosing the fastest route. “A rich spiritual life is about not living automatically.”
A DEEP WELL Willse is what some people call a cradle Episcopalian, someone raised within the church from youth who remains active within the Episcopal community through their adulthood. She grew up in the Episcopal Church and continues to be an Episcopalian, “though I am always interested in gleaning wisdom from all traditions,” she added. “Faith is always going to be a mystery. Ideally it is always evolving, and it is relational,” she said. That concept of relationality brings the conversation to prepositions, the part of speech that describes relationships. When Willse hit her forties, she was a happily married mother of three with writing work that paid the bills. Her writing projects may not have been the sort of creative endeavor that she would choose of her own accord — after all, that kind of writing would eventually become Beneath and Between — but they took effort and creative energy, and they paid well enough. It was, in short, a picture-perfect life, the kind that many people would feel uncomfortable questioning. “My cup was full, my heart was full, and I was nevertheless feeling like something in my life was ‘small,’” she said. She recognized that there was something beyond those facets that she needed to address: “It was my faith yearning to deepen.” Some people have called her experience a midlife crisis, but she disagrees. “I don’t think of it as a crisis. I just think of it as the soul doing the good work of souling.”
Perhaps her experience and the so-called “midlife crisis” have similar roots, if wholly different forms of expression. If the typical midlife crisis is, in essence, a person’s emphatic assertion that they are more than their career or their personal relationships, it’s not so very different than one’s faith searching for deeper wells. “I made this meditation room on the bottom floor in my house in an old utility room,” Willse said. Of such humble beginnings are great discoveries made. There she spent time in prayer, meditation, and journaling, and she discovered that her faith was as strong as ever, if somehow more personal and intimate than she had previously imagined. “I realized that I needed some fresh language,” Willse said. “It became a new vocabulary of faith for me, and I found it in these unlikely, overlooked words — prepositions, that part of speech which dictates relationality.”
F R E S H L A N G UAG E In both our conversation and her beautifully written Beneath and Between, Willse is at pains to make clear that she does not claim to have The Answer. In fact, her “fresh language” does not require her to abandon or undermine her previous beliefs. “I have always loved the Episcopalian liturgy. It’s very beautiful, very poetic,” she said. “It’s just all these heavy nouns and these masculine nouns that were fixing God as this person, this thing, and yet the God I was experiencing in my most intimate person was not that at all.” Willse used language to break her out of default ways of thinking. She says she uses prepositional truth, the idea that we and our faith are defined in relation to others, to break away from what she calls propositional truth — the concept of what we can propose to be true or false being the whole truth. “We sort of default to thinking of God above,” Willse said, but she saw God through others’ kindness, as beyond her ability to define. There, beneath her house, inside her little utility-room-turned-meditation-chamber she discovered a profound closeness to God. Those new ways of experiencing her spirituality do not negate the idea of God above; they only add nuance. “Getting away from nouns and into the territory of prepositions helped me break God out of that box of that smallness I was feeling,” she explained.
Even within Christianity, the language of the Holy Trinity explains a larger-than-life concept by resorting to a seemingly paradoxical concept. To be “in the world, but not of the world” is likewise a popular translation and summation of John 17:15-16, in which Jesus prays that God will keep his followers safe in the world without removing them from it. In Beneath and Between’s final chapter, “Beyond,” Willse calls on sources from Rumi to Job, from The Wizard of Oz to St. Augustine, all to help explain that God is beyond our understanding — and, she confesses, beyond the power of prepositions to contain and explain. That mystery, that glorious contradiction, is, as Willise sees it, something truly beautiful. “For some spiritual seekers, the unknowability of God is the ultimate roadblock. For others, it is the proof in the pudding,” she writes. “Our nonunderstanding is not a sign that we are missing the point but rather a sign that we are quite on point. Encountering that which is unknowable and unnamable, we find ourselves treading lightly in the Divine.” For Willse, the mission to truly know and understand her creator is one defined by mystery. It should be taken on with humility and with the knowledge that, “We were doomed to fail, but beautifully.” O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 19
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S S JOURNAL C II P TY
MANUFACTURING MISSION HISTORY PROVES THIS CITY KNOWS HOW TO BUILD THINGS. ENHANCING LOGISTICS AND DISTRIBUTION WILL PROVIDE THE POWERFUL TOOLS NEEDED FOR FUTURE GROWTH. BY TOM JONES
T
H E M O D E R N H I S T O R Y of the Memphis economy has been dominated by one industry. There is no argument that Memphis is one of the country’s great logistics centers. This status fulfills a priority set in the legendary 1979 Memphis Jobs Conference. ¶ Back then, the Memphis economy was in trouble. Six years earlier, FedEx had moved to Memphis. Inspired partly by Fred Smith’s vision of overnight air delivery, the Jobs Conference identified logistics as an area of concentration for the city. It was a bold and risky bet on a young startup. Memphis’s 121,000 logistics and transportation workers represent the highest concentration and share of workers in that industry of any metropolitan region in the U. S. There was a time when the city was a center of manufacturing, but that field’s collapse resulted in the transition to logistics. The RCA plant manufacturing black-andwhite televisions eliminated 2,000 jobs when it closed on New Year’s Eve 1970, but employment had peaked at 4,000; the Firestone tire plant shut down in 1982 with almost 2,000 workers losing their jobs; and the International Harvester plant manufacturing agricultural equipment closed in 1984 with almost 650 employees left from the thousands who had worked there in earlier years. In 1990, the region had more than 66,000 manufacturing jobs, but by 2010, that number had fallen by over one-third. It’s no wonder that over the years, manufacturing was often discussed as if it were a relic of the city’s industrial past. And yet, the Memphis metropolitan area still had about 38,900 manufacturing jobs in June, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, or six percent of the area’s nonfarm employment.
That is not the industrial employment base Memphis had decades ago, but it is hardly insignificant. It’s why the Greater Memphis Chamber and others are bullish on our region’s potential to be a major manufacturing hub again. Today’s opportunity is not to turn Memphis back into the manufacturing city it once was. Rather, it is to make Memphis a different kind of manufacturing city — one built around advanced production, technology, skilled workers, and the extraordinary transportation infrastructure that we already have. Logistics alone is not enough to carry the kind of economy Memphis needs — one that can help reverse population loss, reduce poverty, create better-paying jobs, and give young people a reason to build their futures here. Creating more manufacturing will be a challenge. In March, the Economic Innovation Group wrote about “rising star” cities which had the most manufacturing firms started in the past five years. Using that data, economist Joe Cortright, who said “new manufacturing startups are a leading indicator of future prosperity,” ranked Memphis as next to last among the 50 largest metros. In the same month, the
Urban Institute said Shelby County faces “a trend of economic stagnation,” and Brookings Institution, in a ranking of the 55 largest metro areas, classified the Memphis MSA as #43 in growth, #49 in prosperity, #31 in inclusion, and #45 in racial inclusion. The Chamber is not taking the challenge lightly. According to the Chamber’s Prosper Memphis 2030 growth plan announced in 2022, “By promoting the region’s diversity and by upskilling its workforce, the Chamber hopes to make Memphis a go-to destination for these advanced industries and their high-quality jobs. … Advanced industries — like automotive or medical device manufacturing — are characterized by their heavy emphasis on research and technology, and their need for talent in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).” The Prosper Memphis plan set a daunting goal of 50,000 “high-quality” jobs by 2030. The Chamber considers “high quality” jobs to be ones that pay at least $45,000. It said recently that it has added 22,000 jobs and 937 new advanced industries with four years left to reach its goal. The good news is that the city’s logistics advantage should not be viewed simply as a boon for distribution. It can also be a manufacturing advantage. The same infrastructure that allows a product to move efficiently through Memphis makes it possible for that product to be manufactured, assembled, packaged, repaired, customized, and distributed here. Manufacturing must be an engine for larger growth because it creates something Memphis desperately needs: pathways into the middle class for people who do not necessarily have four-year college degrees. This does not mean manufacturing jobs are automatically good jobs. Memphis should be demanding competitive wages, opportunities for advancement, training, and safe working conditions. Our historic advantage is we know how to move things. This is not about abandoning logistics. It is about moving beyond logistics. Memphis has spent decades proving that it knows how to move the world’s goods. Now it should prove that it knows how to make more of them, too. T O M J O N E S 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. Contact him at tjones@ smartcityconsulting.com
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F RESTORING CONFIDENCE AFTER CANCER RENEE PINLAC TALKS ABOUT A VARIETY OF TREATMENT OPTIONS THAT CAN HELP RESTORE A SURVIVOR’S CONFIDENCE. BY KAILYNN JOHNSON
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY DE L A BELLE WELLNESS & SPA
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OR RENEE P I N L AC,
aesthetic treatments are about more than just looks: They’re confidence builders — especially for women surviving cancer. ¶ “When it comes to cancer survivors, they have a multitude of ways that they need support,” Pinlac says. “From IV therapy to help them feel hydrated — whether they’re going through cancer and that’s been a plan with their oncologist, to after the fact, when they’re trying to gain themselves back, through hair rejuvenation, restoration, IV therapy, vitamin shots, or hormonal therapy. ¶ For women navigating life after cancer, Pinlac says common concerns can be changes in appearance, hair loss, changes in energy, body changes, and overall confidence.
As Pinlac approaches the age at which her own mother passed away from cancer, she notes her relationship to the topic is personal. “I’ve seen both sides of this. I’ve walked through this aesthetic journey with patients as survivors, and what they want to do to feel confidence.” As the owner of De La Belle Wellness and Spa, she stresses that post-cancer aesthetic treatments are not about vanity, but about confidence. Pinlac says there are many aspects to assessing a patient. The nurse practitioner likes to take a wellness approach when looking at how bodies can be made healthy after a disease or illness. As a self-proclaimed “girl’s girl,” Pinlac loves all things makeup, and learning about new tools that enhance women’s confidence. This led her to become certified in Botox and fillers
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about 14 years ago, which moved her love for aesthetics to center stage. Pinlac says aesthetics and cancer are intertwined, which causes her to think intentionally about each patient’s goal. She approaches her patients’ wellness holistically — treating them as individuals and meeting them where they are. “Part of this process is building relationships,” she says. “I understand what is going on in the patient’s mind and body, and I use that [to] help support them.”
“We’re called to be safe first,” Pinlac says. “Even though I’m a very openminded person when it comes to looking at things that are safe for patients and survivors to participate in, I also realize we have to walk through this journey with these patients.”
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Pinlac attributes her background in cancer care to being able to help a patient navigate their experience and help them with aesthetic treatment options. “Because I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to have relationships with survivors and those experiencing the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, I don’t shy away from real questions and topics when it comes to aesthetic needs of those same patients,” she says. She tells about a weight-loss patient of hers who was later diagnosed with breast cancer. The patient began looking for hormonal support to supplement her energy after surgery. After routine treatment with Pinlac combined with trust-building, the patient eventually told her she felt like she could “drop it like it’s hot.”
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Pinlac begins by assessing her patients and learning where they are in life, their level of comfort, if they’re currently in treatment, and more. This includes asking questions about their needs and solidifying an understanding of what the patient wants. She then begins to sift through the safest options for her patients. “We’re called to be safe first,” Pinlac says. “Even though I’m a very open-minded person when it comes to looking at things that are safe for patients and survivors to participate in, I also realize we have to walk through this journey with these patients.”
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As she encourages patients to look at their treatment as a journey, she also emphasizes the importance of a support system. Though each patient’s journey is different, she emphasizes the importance of healthy skin. With the skin being the largest organ, she says a better glow can be key to restoring confidence. Options such as vitamin shots and IV treatments can help someone feel more hydrated. “It can be as simple as a Vitamin B or D shot along with facials and skincare,” Pinlac says. “Most anyone can tolerate those things and start with those as they’re getting on their feet again.” Patients can also consider treatments such as hair rejuvenation or safely injecting breast tissue. “[Some are] going back for surgery, [but others are] electing not to do surgery and just want healthier breast tissue by utilizing PRP [platelet-rich plasma] as a dermal filler that is collagen-stimulating, and really healthy for that breast tissue and the face and body too,” she says. As she encourages patients to look at their treatment as a journey, she also emphasizes the importance of a support system. A friend, family member, or loved one’s support is important in life, both during and after treatment. The encouragement from a second party can aid in navigating feelings of anxiety, but also can boost confidence. Pinlac says any time a patient brings family, a friend, or significant other to an appointment, she views it as an educational opportunity for both parties. “Education is also a big and important piece of my practice.”
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I R E M E M B E R T H E D AY I F I R S T M E T K E N N E I L L
in the disheveled offices of Memphis Magazine — broad freckled face, bushy nest of red hair, strong Irish presence in the room. An intimidating blast of brain wattage coming at me, and a quicksilver personality. The conversation was slightly manic, ranging from sports to politics to history. I was dazzled. He was brimming with both opinions and facts, as eloquent in person as he was on the page. ¶ It was the summer of 1982, and I was just a kid in college, twenty years old. I’d been religiously reading Memphis Magazine for the past year, and thought maybe I could write magazine stories. But I had no idea how to go about it. Ken, who was the editor, asked me if I had any ideas and I nervously blurted out something about Box Car Eddie, a homeless man I’d recently met who wasn’t homeless at all — for months he’d been building a sprawling palace of crates and boxes along the Southern Railway by the Highland Strip. I wanted to know more about the man (his real name was Edward Williamson) and why he was constructing this curious edifice in the heart of the city. To my surprise, Ken almost immediately said, “Do it. Two thousand words.” Then he added: “Now, off you go.” He fluttered his hands in an exaggerated gesture, like you do to get pigeons to scram. “Off you go.” That was Ken’s trademark expression. It conveyed his belief in the basic soundness of your idea but also his expectation that you must go forth and make it a reality. It meant, I trust you, good luck, happy hunting. It also meant, Now get crackin’. Ken saw — and cultivated — something in me that I didn’t know was there, which I
guess is pretty much the definition of a mentor. Why he did it, I don’t know, but truly, he took me under his wing, as he did a whole generation of aspiring writers and editors. My (modest) Box Car Eddie piece was published in November 1982, and I got a (modest) check for it, my first piece of professional writing. My parents were thrilled. In the months and years ahead, Ken asked for more, and more, and I did my best to deliver. But woe unto me when I turned in something inferior, which invariably prompted him to utter his other trademark expression: “It’s
fine.” You can guess what that meant. Mary Loveless, who worked as a Memphis Magazine associate editor and writer for many years, described it this way: “It was the worst thing possible to hear from Ken after he’d read your piece: It’s fine. You’d realize it was sub-par, and probably needed to be reworked, if not totally re-done.” Ken and I developed a lifelong friendship that has gone well beyond magazine journalism, and well beyond Memphis. We’ve connected in New Mexico, New York, Washington, D.C., and in the hill country of Mississippi, among other places. During his busiest years, he was all over the map. Honestly, I couldn’t keep up with the guy. For several years, he served as president of the City and Regional Magazine Association, which had him hobnobbing with the publishers and editors of big-city magazines across the country. As he moved on from contributor to editor to publisher to CEO of the magazine’s parent company, which involved myriad printing enterprises as well as the Memphis Flyer, the depth and breadth of his responsibilities were exhausting even just to hear about. The man never slept. “He wore lots of hats,” says Memphis Magazine executive editor Michael Finger. “He got spread out in lots of directions. He was obsessive, and kind of a mad genius. But he was always the life of the party.” It wasn’t just words, but figures that animated him, as he did his level best to keep the magazine and the company financially afloat during decades of stormy seas. “Ken could actually decipher these super-complicated spreadsheets,” remembers former editor Richard Banks, “and he’d dive into them with an intense hunger for the numbers.” For many lean years, it was Ken’s business acumen, Banks believes, that “kept the place alive on a lot of levels.” Former Memphis Magazine executive editor and long-time “Backporch” columnist, Ed Weathers, concurs: “He was the locomotive, always full of steam, always on track, always with some important destination in his sights, pulling many cars behind him.” During those years, I used to call him Citizen Neill. Nothing came within Ken’s purview that didn’t amuse, fascinate, and sometimes enrage him — to the point where he literally would pull his hair out and you could almost see smoke seething from his ears.
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AUGUST 1981
to drum up circulation — like city-wide scavenger hunts, or his beloved annual Kudzu Awards to honor the city’s laughably dubious achievements. “There was a lot of high-jinx and always a mad rush toward deadlines,” recalls Mary Loveless. “It was a non-stop three-ring circus, and he held the whip and the chair,” agrees Richard Banks. The magazine’s Christmas parties were legendary, with Ken tending to play the role of a funky Bad Santa. “Ken bought gag gifts for every employee from A. Schwab,” says Michael Finger, “and handed them out while wearing bizarre costumes — one year a bright-green tux, topped by a ‘crown’ made from a gold-painted gourd. Those parties were definitely surreal.” Editor and columnist Bruce VanWyngarden fondly remembers his years working with Ken on Memphis Magazine and the Flyer, which was largely Ken’s brainchild. “Ken is a mercurial, gifted, sometimes crazy friend, and he was always a passionate boss. He’s made a huge difference in a lot of people’s lives, and he’s had an equally huge impact on the city he loves.”
He followed baseball fanatically. He kept up with the rough-and-tumble minutiae of Shelby County and Tennessee politics, and cultivated a close friendship with U.S. Congressman Steve Cohen. He created something indescribably zany called the Ireland-Paraguay Friendship Society, which I won’t bother explaining. He had a number of favorite haunts and watering holes around town, especially the P&H Cafe, where he often could be found holding forth over beers. Later, he became a bona fide oenophile, a true aficionado of Bordeaux wine, known around the country and in France — he was often flying off to wine festivals and esoteric auctions. Somehow he wasn’t the least bit pretentious, but he grew a mustache that looked pretty sophisticated, and he wore it well. He
had mysterious side gigs. He rented a lair high up in the Lincoln American Tower, where he beavered away late at night on secret projects. (Once asked why he had studied Russian at Yale, the answer was, “I could tell you, but then I’d have to kill you.”) “A true Renaissance man” is how former associate publisher Judy Ringel remembers Ken during her tenure. “He was interested in everything. He loved opera. Fantasy football. In his ‘spare time,’ he wrote a definitive history of the Irish people that was a standard textbook in Irish schools for decades.” Life in the office could be chaotic under Ken’s watch, but it was always colorful. He had a hundred enthusiasms per day. He was constantly hatching whimsical ideas for how
HESE DAYS Citizen Neill is the magazine’s emeritus publisher. Now 78, he’s retired and has been battling some health issues. But his intellectual verve, his high standards, and his omnidirectional curiosity are baked into every page of this magazine. For decades, he inspired so many Memphis journalists to dig deeper and improve their craft. Metropolitan magazines are often just fluffy, rah-rah booster rags doing the bidding of the chamber of commerce, but Ken was always insistent that Memphis Magazine would publish serious journalism and tell the city’s authentic story, warts and all. He wanted the magazine to be every bit as good as New York, Texas Monthly, and the other premier city and regional magazines around the country. A transplant from Boston, he loved Memphis maybe more than most native Memphians do — its wild characters, its weird nooks and crannies, its pathos and its preposterousness. He found his true home here, and he gloried in the place. It showed in every issue. Under his aegis, the magazine brought back wheelbarrows full of City and Regional Magazine Awards. In 1984, Memphis Magazine won the national Public Service Award from Sigma Delta Chi, the Society
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of Professional Journalists, for a special issue on race relations in Memphis that Ken had conceived and spearheaded (titled “Breaking Down the Wall,” October 1983). This was David going up against Goliath — the previous award winners were magazines like Time and The New Yorker. It was Judy Ringel who got the call from Sigma Delta Chi. “The woman said, ‘I’ll hold the phone while you pop the cork on the champagne.’ Without a doubt, that was our proudest moment, and Ken deserved most of the credit.” Although Ken was a sharp and visionary editor, he was also a ferocious reporter and a writer of grace and elegance. His first feature story for the magazine, “Fred Smith’s Million Dollar Dream Machine” (August 1978), was a savvy deep dive into the world of Federal Express. Says Ed Weathers: “That we gave an untried writer such an important story right off the bat is a testament to how impressive Ken’s talent and intelligence was. The article was, well, perfect. Ken’s writing was impeccable. His reporting was utterly thorough. He dug deeper into the story than anyone expected.” With that story, says Weathers, “Ken came crashing meteor-like into the magazine’s pages. He was a dynamo.” From there Ken went on to write about all manner of things, including Beale Street, the legacy of the Chickasaw Indians, the odd history of West Memphis, and the city’s Negro League baseball team, the Red Sox. He wrote profiles of everyone from hearing-loss pioneer Dr. John Shea to Governor Lamar Alexander, from Boss Crump to business mogul Maceo Walker. Perhaps the pinnacle of Ken’s reporting career came with a brilliant exposé of Georgia Tann and her spectacularly evil adoption-for-profit operation, which is believed to have been involved in the theft of more than 4,000 babies and the wrongful deaths of some 500 children. The wrenching twopart series became the basis of books, as well as a made-for-TV movie starring Mary Tyler Moore. The undeniable power of Ken’s story was likely informed, in part, by the fact that he himself was adopted. What follows is a selection of Ken Neill’s “greatest hits,” carefully curated by the magazine’s current staff. Taken together, these excerpts should give readers a good sense of Ken’s voice and style, as well as his eclectic range of interests. What shines through it all, I think, is his long, abiding romance with the Bluff City, and his stubborn determination always to drive toward the truth. Now, off we go.
Ken Neill’s Greatest Hits
A SELECTION OF COVER FEATURES FROM OUR LONGTIME EDITOR. F O R M E R E X E C U T I V E E D I T O R Ed Weathers has
expressed surprise that “we gave an untried writer such an important story.” He was referring, of course, to Ken Neill’s August 1978 cover feature, “Fred Smith’s Million Dollar Dream Machine.” That initial uncertainty about the new writer’s abilities quickly turned into calm expectations, as the staff discovered that this gentleman could write about anybody, anything, anytime — and what he produced became THE definitive account of that particular subject. ¶ Ken brought a keen eye for the right details, a sharp ear for the perfect quotes, and an innate sense for the art of storytelling. It’s impossible to convey the true extent of his journalist abilities in the space we have here, but we’d like to present excerpts from some of his best-known work, to demonstrate how powerfully and effectively he contributed to this publication over the past 50 years. ¶ If these stories are from his early days, that’s only because over the years he “wore so many hats,” as he put it. As publisher of Memphis Magazine, founder and publisher of the Memphis Flyer, and director of our custom publishing division, among them, he had to step back from the keyboard, but these stories stand the test of time. In this salute to Ken Neill, we’ve called him “The Ringmaster,” and any of these features would, to this day, be a hard act to follow. — Michael Finger
Fred Smith’s Million Dollar Dream Machine The Story of Federal Express AUGUST 1978
The company later known as FedEx was five years old, but still facing uncharted skies, with ever-changing regulations, aggressive competition, and other hurdles that threatened to keep the fleet grounded. With his introductory feature, Ken gives readers the distinct impression that he flew the jets, unloaded the cargo, and spent his evenings with company founder Fred Smith and the other company’s far-sighted leaders.
COMING OUT OF the service in 1970, Smith could easily have rested on his laurels and his family’s fortune. But the Vietnam veteran was not prepared for so passive a future. He needed fresh challenges as Don Quixote
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needed windmills. Aviation had always been Smith’s first love (he had gotten his pilot’s license when only 15), so he bought Little Rock Airmotive, an Arkansas firm that specialized in aircraft modifications and engine overhauls, and began to get his feet wet in the world of American business. At this time the erstwhile Ivy Leaguer also began giving serious consideration to an idea which he had used as the theme for an economics research paper at Yale: the design of an efficient air cargo network which would make possible the rapid delivery of small parcels to all parts of the country. Instead of using existing airlines and maintaining depots in a number of cities, he proposed a single sorting facility which would serve the entire country. Every evening, planes from a hundred cities would bring parcels to this “hub.” Within a matter of hours they could return to home base, laden with packages bound for those destinations. Smith wanted a completely self-contained system, one which maintained its own delivery trucks and depots as well as airplanes. In this way, he could ensure that any package accepted for delivery on a particular evening would be delivered to an addressee in any other city in the network on the following morning. “If a hospital in Texas needs a heart valve tomorrow,” he observed, “it needs it tomorrow.” Fred Smith resolved to be the man who would make those special deliveries possible.
Adoption for Profit Conspiracy and Cover-up OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER 1978
Georgia Tann, a personal friend of politicians, business leaders, and newspaper editors, ran the Tennessee Children’s Home Society from the mid-1930s until 1950. That’s when rumors began to swirl that things
at the state orphanage weren’t as they seemed. She may have found new homes for many children, but working with Juvenile Court Judge Camille Kelley, who could at a whim declare a family unfit, it seems she was in effect stealing kids from good homes and selling them to the highest bidders — including Hollywood stars.
THE TREE-SHADED Memphis home at 1556 Poplar bustled with activity. Most of the time, it housed over 30 children, from several days to seven years in age, all of whom were awaiting placement in foster homes. In most cases, their wait was measured in weeks rather than months. Georgia Tann’s organization placed more children annually
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than any other adoption agency in the MidSouth. The Press-Scimitar waxed eloquent on her behalf, calling Tann “the guardian angel of Tennessee’s homeless, dependent children.” By the mid-1940s, the Memphis branch of the Tennessee Children’s Home Society was one of the best-known child-placement agencies in America. Prominent individuals such as New York Senator Herbert Lehmann and film stars June Allyson and Joan Crawford adopted children through TCHS. Tann, herself a national figure, spoke at child welfare meetings all over the country. “People seeking to adopt a child should deal only with a recognized agency,” she cautioned listeners. “Those who take into their home babies left on their doorsteps or made available through irregular channels invite disaster.” Little did her audience realize that at that very moment Tann was operating her own network of “irregular channels” and sowing the seeds which would in 1950 bring disaster and disgrace both to herself and to the Tennessee Children’s Home Society.
Baseball is the subject of our conversation. Keyes was a pitcher, and a pretty fair one at that. “My fast ball,” he says proudly, “was just like a white streak of lightning.” For several hours we talk about the players he pitched against and played aside. He has hundreds of stories. He remembers the time “Cool Papa” Bell scored from first base on a bunt. He describes the game in Philadelphia in which Josh Gibson held up on a curve ball, only to change his mind at the last millisecond and hit a 500-foot home run with only one hand on his bat. These memories mean a lot to Spike Keys. But names like Bell and Gibson mean little to most Americans. Most have never heard of players like Willie Wells, Buck Leonard, Neil Robinson, and Verdell Mathis. Yet today these names might be household words, were it not for one thing: Like Spike Keys, all of these players were Black, and unlucky enough to have been born when baseball was very much a white man’s game. The first people to populate these riverbluffs and farmlands came here hundreds of years before Europeans settled on the present-day site of Memphis. Many of them are still here today, members of the old Chickasaw and Choctaw tribes. With this story, Ken Neill introduced readers to some of their leaders, who discussed their past, present, and future.
The Memphis Red Sox Memories of Baseball in the Negro Leagues JUNE 1979
Baseball was strictly segregated until Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in 1947, playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers. Until then, whites had their teams, Blacks had theirs, and they never met on the diamond, even though the Negro Leagues were producing players of star quality who could compete with anybody in pitching, batting, and fielding. Ken Neill took readers back to the glory days of the Memphis Red Sox and the cheering crowds at Martin Stadium.
EZEKIAL “SPIKE” KEYS is not a big man. Today he doesn’t weigh more than the 136 pounds when he played for the Memphis Red Sox back in the 1940s. But seated at one end of his living room couch in Clarksdale, he seems much larger. The room comes alive when he talks, waving his arms for emphasis.
The Lost Tribe Rediscovering the Chickasaws, Memphis’ True Native Sons NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER 1979
GRADY JOHN is a powerfully built man in his forties, who speaks with authority and gesticulates forcefully for emphasis. He is vice-president of the West Tennessee Indian Council, which represents the Indians of Memphis as well as a small tribe of Choctaws who have settled in a community near Ripley, Mississippi. He talks at length about the cultural center they want to build there and about the best ways to approach the Bureau of Indian Affairs for grants to finance the project. “We need this badly,” he says, “to keep alive the language and tradition of our children.” Like most of the Mississippi Choctaws, John speaks his native language fluently. Sitting nearby, Wood Bell nods his head. A smaller, older man, he listens much more than he speaks. He was one of the first Choctaws to move to Ripley after World War II, and he represents an older Indian generation. Occasionally, Grady John pauses to translate a phrase into Choctaw for Bell’s benefit. Like John, Bell is a Choctaw full-blood. His appearance is distinctive, but nothing stands out more than his eyes. They seem close and far away at the same time. And in them one can see both wisdom and sadness — unmistakable qualities in a people long ago made strangers in their own land. O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 33
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W H I S P E R S I N L O N E LY P L A C E S . Untouched things moving. Mists and shadows where they should not be. Feathers from nowhere. And yes: bumps in the night. ¶ Terry Beville did not buy his stately nineteenth-century farmhouse in Somerville, Tennessee (Fayette County), because it was haunted. After all, he didn’t even believe in that stuff. But he later would come to believe, emphatically, that the house is occupied by spirits. ¶ He has piles of pictures, videos, and audio recordings on his phone to back his certainty. He also has the word of Historical Haunts Memphis, a paranormal investigation team, that the house is a sort of portal through which many ghosts pass. Does that scare him? Sometimes, he admits. How badly? ¶ “My heart and soul are in this house,” he says when asked about that last part. “So, they’re not going to run me out.” ¶ Terry loves the ghost stories, but that’s not why he keeps the place. One of those ghost stories is his, and it’s a love story. ¶ His blood, sweat, and (probably) tears are evident in the house and grounds — from the sumptuously Southern decor and the lush, manicured lawn and gardens. But his heart and soul? Yes.
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SIPS
TH E H I STO RY Terry’s house was built in the 1800s, though he hasn’t been able to find an exact construction date. The earliest record he found, apparently regarding an addition to the house, dates to 1898. His research has led him to conclude that a small Civil War skirmish happened near the house. He also thinks a Northern colonel established a camp there once, and that Nathan Bedford Forrest came through and attacked the camp. Using a metal detector, a cousin of Terry’s found old Confederate buttons on the property. This account would jibe with stories of hauntings on the grounds: sounds of musket fire, sounds of cavalry and horse-drawn wagons, the specter of a Confederate soldier in a photograph. But what he really knows for sure — he found the home at the best/worst time. He worked in the mortgage business and spotted trouble coming in the housing market in 2007. He decided to downsize. He figured he would go in one of two directions: downtown Memphis or way out in
the country. Then he found the house and it wouldn’t let him go. He bought it before his wife, Donna, ever laid eyes on it. “She pulled up in the driveway and she started crying when she first saw it,” Terry says. But they were tears of joy. It was exactly what she had always dreamed about. She loved the house, even if it was old and worn, far from the splendor it likely once sported. “The house didn’t look anything like this,” he recounts on a recent tour. “It was a total disaster when I bought it.” But he could deal with a little disaster. He knew the business and hired contractors to fix up the place. He figured that noise, dust, and strangers would fill the home for a few months — and then he and Donna would relax in their beautiful country home. That is not what happened. Instead, Donna was diagnosed with cancer. Her needs were great, but Terry refused to put her in a nursing home. He was her caretaker. That role got very big, and he lost his mortgage job. This plunged the best move into the worst timing ever. “We struggled big-time,” he says. “That’s
when I had to teach myself how to be a carpenter because I couldn’t afford [to pay].” If the house needed work, he would do it himself. Old wallpaper was stripped away first. He taught himself to hang Sheetrock. He learned carpentry. “I’d never built anything in my life until I came out here,” he says. “I work in an office.” In all, Terry’s renovations took around five years to complete, and most of the work is invisible to the untrained eye. Nothing about the finished house suggests it was restored by a man who was learning how to do the work as he went. Terry has filled the home with that same handmade, loving care. The house is antique maximalism, curated and displayed so densely and deliberately that every object — from old pianos to old-fashioned phones — seems to have found its appointed place. Antique furniture, vintage photographs, and family treasures fill the rooms. Some Christmas decorations stay up year-round; a decorated tree adorns every room. A dramatic four-poster bed dominates one bedroom. The dark floors and staircase contrast with white spindles and walls crowded with pictures.
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Beside the farmhouse, Terry has created a pocket-size Western town for weddings and events. Weathered wooden buildings marked “barn” and “saloon” face an open gathering space. In that open, green space, heavy wooden church pews stand in two rows before a rough-hewn arbor topped by a cross. All that’s missing is a betrothed couple and a bouquet. Split-rail fences, strings of lights, and baskets of red flowers soften the rough boards. There is even a jail where, Terry jokes, grooms can get ready — or spend the night if necessary. “It was a dream of mine,” he said of his Western village. “I didn’t know what I was doing. I just studied it and built it.” The house feels like a museum of sorts; the grounds, a curated event space. But every bit of it feels like a home: Terry’s home. Donna’s home, too, maybe. Even though she passed away some years ago, Terry believes she may still be there.
TH E H AU NTI N G S Donna was the first to suspect and then insist that something or someone else lived in their newly purchased farmhouse in the country. On their very first day there, she heard the hymn “How Great Thou Art” playing somewhere — but neither she nor Terry could source the sound. Later, she got inexplicably locked inside a closet. “We’re moving,” Terry remembers her saying. “You’ve moved me to a haunted house. We’re out of here.” Terry simply did not believe in those things. At first. Then, one night as they lay in that four-poster bed, fabric draped over the top of the bed drew back. They watched it together. Neither could explain it. He began to hear faint music from another era playing at night
under the whir of a bedtime box fan. Visitors began taking strange photographs around the house and showing him their findings. “I’m the type of guy, I have to prove stuff before I say anything,” he says. “If I can’t prove it, I don’t talk about it.” Time convinced him, stubbornly. Experiences piled up. Enough so that the Memphis mortgage professional who taught himself carpentry fetched a yellow legal pad and scrawled the words “ghost log” at the top as a means of cataloguing the occurrences. Unseen feet stamped in empty rooms upstairs. Pearl earrings clattered to the floor, after a search to find them had been fruitless. A spectral photograph showed a little girl standing in an upstairs window. White feathers appeared from nowhere. Terry came to believe these were signs from those passed on. From thin air, odd phrases were voiced. “It’s still hard to believe,” he says. “But I do now. There’s just too much.”
TH E LOV E STO RY After Donna died, the stories changed. Terry began hearing what sounded like his wife calling his name. Worried that grief was overtaking him, he invited paranormal investigators — through the organization Historical Haunts Memphis — to the house. Their equipment produced recordings that Terry believes captured Donna’s voice. During one recording, an investigator speaks to her: “Thank you for letting us visit your beautiful home, Donna. We’re very appreciative of it. It’s beautiful.” A faint voice — Donna’s, according to Terry — follows. “I love you.” In another recording, Terry hears Donna
calling the name of Penny, a dog who died three months before she did. When asked, he said listening to those voices makes him happy and sad at the same time. “Both,” he said, pausing and shifting his gaze to the lawn beyond the kitchen window. “Both.” In the weeks before her death, Donna took Terry’s hand and told him she did not want him to find anyone else. Terry assured her he would never leave. She meant afterward. If he brought another woman into the home they had restored together, she warned him, “You think it’s haunted now? I will haunt you.” Later, after Terry had been on a date, the investigators returned with that audio in which he heard Donna’s voice. “I about fell out of that chair,” he says.
“ G H O STLY TH I N G S ” Terry and Donna were married for 12 years. In the photographs and recordings, he finds reassurance that their relationship did not end in the room where she died. The property has become a meeting place for apparent opposites: the living and the dead, mourning and celebration, an old farmhouse and a newly built frontier town. Terry restored the house because he and Donna needed a home. He built the grounds because he discovered he could build a dream with his own hands. Now he invites other couples to begin their married lives in the place where his own love story, he believes, continues. “There are ghostly things in here,” Terry said. “But it’s a love story, too.” For wedding and event reservations, folks can reach out to Terry Beville (Hawkeye) on Facebook. O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 37
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HIS CREATIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH ISAAC HAYES PLACED HIM AMONG THE MOST CELEBRATED SONGWRITERS OF HIS ERA; THEN CAME SOLO RECORDS, PRODUCTION DEALS, AND TEACHING TOMORROW’S STARS. AT ALMOST 85, PORTER IS STILL — AS HE WOULD SAY — DEEPING IT. BY ALEX GREENE PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOUSTON COFIELD 38 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6
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O N G B E F O R E D J S S P U N his original records in the 1960s, radio signals beaming from Memphis flowed and tangled together to form David Porter’s sense of the world. In 1948, when he was just 6 years old, WDIA went on air as the first American radio station programmed for a Black audience. ¶ “I would begin to hear artists like B.B. King, Chuck Berry, Fats Domino, and Mighty Clouds of Joy,” he writes in The Soul Man: Life of Songwriter David Porter, an autobiography published earlier this year. “I remember being astonished after hearing them. I would think to myself, they sound like me. That’s a Black voice, and it’s playing on the radio.” For Porter, “it was the beginning of a fantasy that one day they would have music from me playing on the radio,” and for the first time he thought, “I could have something more and be something more.” ¶ Speaking with me at Crosstown Concourse recently, Porter, who has racked up over 1,700 (!) songwriting and composing credits, revisits those years and emphasizes WDIA’s importance. “That was world-changing for me,” he says. Beyond simply hearing Black music, young Porter was learning from the station’s Black DJs, like Nat D. Williams, who had been teaching at Booker T. Washington High School since 1930. “The power of WDIA,” he says, “was the fact that many of the on-air personalities were educated. Like Nat D. Williams. And the funny thing is, I don’t believe the people who were doing the hiring at the radio station thought, ‘Well, first I want to hire an educator.’ No, I think that to a great degree, had they known that, I don’t think they would have done it. Because it was preparing people to have a different perspective about who they were and why they were. The self-pride and dignity gave [my generation] the ability to say, ‘We have to make a change.’” Porter has spent his life in the aftermath of that generational realization. A sense of the vibrant musical culture he was immersed in, beamed into his consciousness through the radio, wove together with his love of music-making. The church choirboy — he started singing in services at 7 or 8, and “thought I was the star of Sunday morning” — soon found his interests shifting to more secular styles. By 9, he was writing and singing his own songs. Porter went on to write and compose prolifically; his music has been performed or sampled by artists from Aretha Franklin to Bonnie
Raitt, Celine Dion and Drake to ZZ Top and Wu-Tang Clan. The “na-na-na” in Will Smith’s “Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It”? That’s a song by the BarKays and Porter. In 2019, when Wu-Tang performed at Mempho Music Festival, Porter was on stage to introduce the group. (Wu-Tang’s hip-hop hit “C.R.E.A.M.” famously samples a Hayes-Porter composition.) “We found a lot of loot [in Memphis music] to help us tell our story,” said Wu-Tang’s the RZA from the stage that night. “Now turn that s--- up: We gotta take them back to their foundations.”
SONGS OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS W H E N P O R T E R WA S only 2, his father died from a ruptured appendix. “To this day, I’ve never seen a picture of my father,” he writes. “Most of what I had learned as a little kid, I learned on my own” — or to the extent one can be alone, when surrounded by 11 siblings (eight brothers, three sisters) and a mother. His mother, Corean Howard Porter, inspired him more than anyone else. Her compassion and faith were at the heart of his own creativity, beginning with his first public performance
of something he had written — a song called “Till the End of My Life,” inspired by the never-ending love he felt for his mother and sisters. Life was tough in the earliest home of his youth on Virginia Avenue, where the family’s shotgun house had no indoor toilet, he told The Bitter Southerner, adding that nowadays, “if the restroom is not all the way on point, I’m not staying at the hotel.” But amid the hardscrabble conditions, he met other gifted young souls. Picture it: In LeMoyne Gardens and other nearby streets where he lived at various times, his neighborhood friends included William Bell, who “we often saw standing out under the light poles in the early night evenings singing like a bird”; Joe Dukes, who later drummed for Brother Jack McDuff; an older kid named Willie Herenton who taught Porter a few boxing moves; and, most significantly, Maurice White, with whom who Porter bonded in his youngest days on Viriginia Avenue and at Rose Hill Baptist church, and who would remain one of Porter’s closest friends until his death in 2016. White left Memphis after high school graduation and went to Chicago, where he began session work at Chess Records and played with the Ramsey Lewis Trio, before, some years later, founding Earth, Wind & Fire. By his late teens, Porter came to know and work with musicians in the city’s wider circles, including Beale Street and its environs. Even as he pursued his dreams, though, he and a girl named Willa Ann Dent found they were expecting a child together, and the two were married two months after he finished high school, in 1961. By 1967, they were divorced. Trying to provide for his children with Willa Ann, he started a job at the Big D Grocery Store on McLemore Avenue in the neighborhood that would become Soulsville. A teenaged stint at a grocery store might not sound like a life-changing chapter, and this one might not have been — but for the fact that across the street was the new Satellite Record Shop, run by Estelle Axton (the “-ax” of Stax Records). That record shop would prove to be his portal into another world.
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PORRETTA, ITALY’S SOUL JUBILEE
E
1
4
VERY YEAR,
the sleepy burg of Porretta Terme, Italy, hosts a most unlikely celebration of soul music — and Memphis music in particular. Known as the Porretta Soul Festival, the gathering in the town’s Rufus Thomas Park has drawn steadily larger crowds since launching in 1988. Now the surrounding area has been dubbed “The Valley of Soul.” Celebrated for its hot springs since Roman times, Porretta was officially recognized as Memphis’s sister city last year, with mayors Paul Young and Lee Harris both attending the festival. This summer’s headliners included Eric Gales, Tower of Power’s Lenny Williams, and a special appearance by Jerry Phillips. As Rufus himself might say, “Fai il funky gallo!”
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Visit memphismagazine.com for the full story.
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ter possessed formidable composition and band-recruiting skills, and he agreed to hire him as a staff songwriter. Most of what ensued in that era is chiseled in the annals of Memphis music history, as Satellite became Stax Records, which created, along with Willie Mitchell at Hi, the Memphis soul sound. Porter eventually convinced Stax to hire Hayes as well, and the two rose to fame, behind the scenes, as the principal songwriters/producers of hits and album tracks by Sam & Dave, Carla Thomas, The Emotions, The Soul Children, Johnnie Taylor, and others. Deanie Parker, who worked at Stax then, describes Porter as “high energy,” adding, “I think that he must have created the word ‘determined.’ And I can’t talk about David without mentioning Isaac because they were like twins. They were hungry when I met them. And those two together created a dynamic that I don’t think we shall ever witness again in this life.” When the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated just 2.5 miles from Stax, Porter and his cohort felt the sonic reverberation in their bones. Yet it convinced Porter and Hayes that their earlier songs expressing Black cultural identity, like “Soul Man,” were more necessary than ever. “On the surface, ‘Soul Man’ was speaking to everybody,” he tells me, “saying that anybody can work through themselves and their life to get to a soulful spot within, to give them the compassion and the sensitivity to be open to everybody. But up under the surface, it was speaking directly to Black men.”
LEANING INTO LOVE Outtake from photo shoot for Por ter ’s first solo album. INSE T: Isaac Hayes and Por ter being induc ted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
T H R O U G H O U T T H AT T I M E , Porter
was and continues to be a devoted Christian. His older brother W.L. Porter eventually became a bishop in the Church of God in Christ. And he experienced familial love, extending to the three children he shared with Willa Ann. Yet despite his ecumenical fervor, and devotion to his family, the irony in the life of David Porter, composer of classic love songs, was that he had never experienced the heights of romantic love. That would have to wait until he connected with one Veronica LeBeau at the dawn of the ’70s, just he was coping with his mother’s death from cancer. Porter and LeBeau’s 1974 marriage lasted a half-dozen years and produced two sons. Yet before Veronica, songs like “When Something is Wrong with My Baby” sprang purely from Porter’s creative spirit. “I learned that people don’t care about how you feel; they care about how you make
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them feel,” he tells me in our conversation. “And so I used that as a template to be able to convey a message that was beyond me. The delivery was coming through me, but the message was beyond me. I was an extreme observer. I watch, look, and observe. It opens itself to the sensitivities inside of me, through my imagination.”
Porter’s relationship with Veronica commenced soon after he’d revived his desire to make his own records. He was and always had been a singer. After Stax’s catastrophic break with Atlantic Records in 1968, Isaac Hayes moved into solo territory with his Hot Buttered Soul solo album. Porter soon followed suit with Gritty, Groovy & Gettin’ It, with Hayes producing, and …Into A Real Thing the next year, with new collaborator Ronnie Williams. Then he created his most ambitious work yet, the concept album Victim of the Joke? … An Opera, inspired by Veronica, or “Roni,” the first great love of his life. Robert Jackson, who engineered many of Porter’s recordings, including Victim of the Joke?, describes the songwriter/producer as always looking sharp and on-point as he ensured his
TOP PHOTOGRAPH BY JOEL BRODSKY; INSE T COURTESY DAVID PORTER
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solo recordings sounded just so. “He would grind and grind and grind till he got what he wanted, going around and singing everybody’s parts, just developing the whole thing. And recording those snippets of dialog: Veronica was a part of that, totally.” Through it all, Porter kept his cool. “David was a was a big brother, a friend, and a boss,” says Jackson. And he was okay with youthful onlookers checking out his sessions. “I really didn’t mind the younger folk peeking in at us,” he writes. “That would be the beginning of my interest in developing the next generation of talent.” Victim of the Joke? and Porter’s other lateStax solo albums would be sampled over and over again starting in the ’90s, by the likes of The Notorious B.I.G. feat. Puff Daddy, GZA feat. Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Ghostface Killah, Wu-Tang Clan, Mary J. Blige, De La Soul, and Megan Thee Stallion, to name just a few. And one reason for the music’s longevity may have been the singer-songwriter’s new trust in his own artistic vision, his commitment to doing his own thing. That was fortuitous, as the studio and label that had been his surrogate family for so many years were to face heavy challenges in the mid-’70s, with many of the old players dwindling away, and Stax being forced into involuntary bankruptcy at the beginning of 1976.
SOUL MEN AND WOMEN OF TOMORROW A S T H E L AT E ’ 70 S steamrolled into the ’80s and beyond, Porter was not deterred. As Deanie Parker notes today, “I think his optimism has probably been the medicine that has allowed him to last as long as he has, and accomplish what he has. After Stax was forced into involuntary bankruptcy, I exited the music industry for a while, but David continued on. That was because of David’s passion and determination to keep it going. I applaud him for getting with Rance Allen and Ronnie Williams and other guys who had been displaced by the bankruptcy experience. He invited them to journey on with him, to pick up the broken pieces or disappointments and dust themselves off and try to get on with it.” Meanwhile, not only did The Blues Brothers give “Soul Man” a new life, the achieve-
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY DAVID PORTER
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ments of Stax endured. Porter briefly worked for Fantasy Records, who had bought the Stax catalog, to revive the label, then moved on to more forward-looking projects. He invested in real estate. He wrote “Moonwalk” for Earth, Wind & Fire, the band started by his lifelong friend Maurice White who, Porter writes, “shook me out of my funk by getting me back into music.” Later, the Memphis guitar phenom Garry Goin would similarly spur him on. And of course, Porter played a major role in the creation of the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the Soulsville Foundation at the start of this century. In 2005, Porter and Hayes were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Remembering his own youthful introduction to the music world, he remained focused on that “next generation of talent.” In 2012, he founded The Consortium MMT (Memphis Music Town), a nonprofit focused on revitalizing the music industry in Memphis by teaching and mentoring younger performers. The next year, Porter was awarded the Governor’s Arts Award for his efforts, and The Consortium MMT carries on to this day. Not long after, Porter and a partner would launch Made In Memphis Entertainment (MIME), originally a record label before expanding under the guidance of others.. Porter’s impact with The Consortium, his chief preoccupation since 2012, is exemplified by the success of Brandon Lewis, one of his protégés. “I was just a kid trying to find my way in the music business,” says Lewis, “and I was at the public library and I came across [The Consortium MMT] program. I reached out, and … David was at every one of the sessions, so I got a chance to be up close and personal with him. Then I started working on music very heavily and really honing my craft.” Now signed to Atlantic Records, Lewis has also become a governor in the Memphis chapter of the Recording Academy and has served for years as The Consortium MMT’s executive director. “Matter of fact,” he says, “our fall session
The sweet smell of success: Por ter with a new ride in the early ‘70s. is just starting, and we’ll have a large group of talents that will come through to be able to hear from me, David Porter, and many legends that are David’s friends to give them the same insights I got from the program.” All of which Porter, still living in Memphis, finds extremely gratifying. He has much to celebrate, having discovered in Kontji Anthony the greatest love of his life. “I had a great life; I just never had a great love, but now with Kontji, I do,” he writes. As we wrap up our conversation at Crosstown, he pauses and reflects on the ride of his life. “I have a lot to be excited about, but I also have a lot to be objective and have a clear vision about, and I’m fortunate enough able to do that. I feel good about it. “Clarity, boy! It is the greatest gift.”
DAVID PORTER LISTENING ROOM WE’VE COMPILED A PLAYLIST OF SONGS TO ACCOMPANY THIS STORY, FROM TRACKS WRITTEN AND/OR PERFORMED BY DAVID PORTER TO SONGS IN WHICH HIS WORK IS SAMPLED. SCAN THE QR CODE FOR ACCESS TO THE DAVID PORTER LISTENING ROOM PLAYLIST.
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GHOSTLY GETAWAYS
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A
S THE
leaves turn blood-red, then wither, and mists gather in the gloaming, you may find yourself pulled to places whose beauty is shrouded in a ghostly glow. We’ve got a couple of excellent, eerie suggestions for your autumnal weekend getaway, and both require a sense of adventure. First, journey into the notorious Bell Witch Cave, in Adams, Tennessee, which has spooked visitors since the 1800s. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. And if you are up for a more extended experience of regional hallows, consider a night at the Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, which houses a whole crowd of haunts. Whether or not you encounter any spirits along the way, you’re sure to enjoy journeying through some of the Mid-South’s most beautiful areas in the autumn. And you might just come home with a story to tell around the next campfire …
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T R AV E L
CRESCENT HOTEL
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Just the name “Crescent Hotel” sounds scary to me: I picture a full moon peering down on a gray hotel with dark windows, long halls, and ghosts. So, of course, I had to get a room at the historic hotel, perched atop a mountain in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. I’d heard the Victorian-era structure — now officially known as the 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa — was haunted. Having once been used as a girls’ school, and then a cancer hospital, the haunted tales are abundant, and have attracted the attention of programs like Ghost Hunters and Ghost Adventures. The hotel was even dubbed “America’s Most Haunted Hotel.” Undeterred, I stayed in Room 218. I had a great dinner in the hotel’s Crystal Dining Room. Steak, with martinis. When it was time for bed, I turned off the lights, closed my eyes, and went to sleep. Only to be awakened by what sounded like gravel being poured above the ceiling. I opened my eyes. Wide. Then I went back to sleep. The next day I related what transpired during the night to the person at the checkout desk. I was told I had spent the night in “Michael’s Room.” (Great. My first name.) And that other Michael was an Irish stone mason who helped build the Crescent Hotel — but he fell through the ceiling and was killed. Wonderful. Michael. Ceiling. Stone mason. Gravel is broken-up stone. Right? Maybe that Irish stone mason was only trying to get to know me. Or maybe I was just hearing the ice melt in the ice bucket in my room? That was the best I could come up with, as far as a rational explanation. But I prefer the Irish stone mason ghost explanation. And based on visitor experiences the hotel freely shares, I’m not the only one to have strange encounters:
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Memphis Magazine’s
THE 2026
FACE
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This exhibition is organized by the National Gallery of Art, Washington. MMA’s presentation is supported by Teiger Foundation, Visit Jackson, Southern Poverty Law Center, Baker Donelson, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, LLP, and Clarion Ledger.
Gwen Beard, MD Gwen Beard, MD Robin Friedman Musicante, MD Robin Friedman Musicante, MD Amy Amonette Huber, MD Amy Amonette Huber, MD MD Courtney S. Woodmansee, Courtney S. Woodmansee, MD Frances K. Lawhead, MD Frances K. Lawhead, MD Emily T. Overholser, MD Emily T. Overholser, MD Alex MD Alex Chantara, Chantara, MD Mary FNP-BC MaryE.E.Stephens, Stephens, FNP-BC Buckley Parker,PA-C PA-C Buckley J.J. Parker, Rachel C. A. Doerr, FNP-C, Lydia Wilbanks PA-CDCNP Leslie RachelGraham, C. Doerr, DNP, FNP-C,AGNP-C DCNP Jennifer P. O’Dell, ACNP-BC
(901) (901) 726-6655 726-6655 1451 & 1455 Union Avenue Memphis, TN 38104
1451 & 1455 Union Avenue
795 Ridge Lake TN Blvd, Suite 200 Memphis, 38104 Memphis, TN 38120
795memphisdermatology.com Ridge Lake Blvd, Suite 200 Memphis, TN 38120
On view July 25 – November 8, 2026
Kwame Brathwaite, Untitled (Portrait of Manasie Ree Horn with Reels as Necklace) (detail), c. 1970 (printed later). Inkjet print, 29 ½ x 29 ½ in (74.9 x 74.9 cm). Collection of the National Gallery of Art, Gift of Funds from Renée Harbers Liddell and Alfred H. Moses and Fern M. Schad Fund, 2024.70.1. msmuseumart.org Downtown Jackson
Theodora: “A cancer patient is known to be seen fumbling for her keys outside Room 419 as well as tidying up for guests when they leave the room.” Breckie: “A 4-year-old child of Richard and Mary Breckenridge Thompson died in the hotel due to complications from appendicitis. He has been seen throughout the hotel bouncing a ball.” Dr. John Freemont Ellis: “The hotel’s inhouse doctor circa the late nineteenth century is most often seen — or his cherry pipe tobacco is smelled — near his office, which is now room 212.” Morris: “The famed hotel cat was known as the Hotel General Manager for 21 years, and later buried on the hotel property, where he is regularly seen and heard.” And then there’s old Michael, the stone mason whose apparition apparently likes to sit on the bed in your room. Make sure you request a double — bed as well as cocktail. Here’s my favorite piece of Crescent Hotel lore. It concerns an annex on the third floor: “Multiple guests have grown faint, with a few passing out briefly, at the same spot.” And, the proprietors go on to say, “Guests suddenly turn pale, falling against the wall and then sliding down in a faint.” But don’t worry. “The loss of consciousness does not last very long and complete recovery is immediate.” My sister, Kathy McLallen, visited the Crescent Hotel earlier this year. She didn’t check out unscathed. It was the middle of the night (naturally). She was in a room on the fourth floor. “There was no one in any of the rooms in that hall,” she says. Suddenly, she heard the floor creaking in front of her door, like someone shifting their weight back and forth. Then the creaking stopped. But whoever (or whatever) was doing the creaking didn’t walk down the hall. It just stopped — outside. A few minutes later, my sister heard the same creaking next to her bed inside her room. “The shifting person was in the room,” she says, “and I felt like there was an eerie presence.” Kathy turned on the light — and the creaking stopped. Was it Theodora? Or maybe it was Breckie. My sister later found out a fire ravaged part of the fourth floor in 1967, so maybe that had something to do with all the sounds and spirits. So, the moral of this ghost story? If you’re planning a trip to the Crescent Hotel, make sure to pack your crystals, prayer book, holy water, or ghost-repellant of choice. To book a room or take a tour, visit crescent-hotel.com.
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THE BELL WITCH CAVE
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In 1817, strange things began to happen around the Red River outside Adams, Tennessee. John Bell, a successful farmer, and his family started seeing spectral animals — a doglike creature and a giant bird unlike any they were familiar with — stalking them. Then, sounds like dogs fighting were heard inside the Bell cabin, even though no dogs were seen. Objects started to move on their own, and something unseen began attacking the children — pinching them, scratching them, and pulling their hair. “It was a spirit that terrorized the Bell family in the early 1800s,” says Candy Hooten, director of operations and co-owner of the Bell Witch Cave. “It had two reasons for coming here: To stop the youngest daughter of John and Lucy Bell — her name was Elizabeth, everybody called her Betsy — from getting married to a neighbor boy named Joshua Gardner. Its other reason for coming was to kill John Bell himself.”
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When a neighbor spent the night in the home, a voice spoke to him, claiming to be the spirit of a witch named Kate. Later, the spirit would give other names. “Whenever the spirit was asked what it was, it gave lots of identities of itself, so nobody even to this day knows who or what the Bell Witch really was. But there are a lot of opinions out there,” says Hooten. For four years, the Bell Witch terrorized the family. People came from as far away as England to investigate. “According to the books on the Bell Witch, Andrew Jackson also came here and witnessed the spirit,” says Hooten. Sometimes, the Bell Witch was helpful, such as an incident when young Betsy Bell and her friends got lost while exploring a cave on the Bell farm, and the spirit rescued them. Other times, it was malevolent; when John Bell died in 1921, the spirit claimed to have poisoned him. Over the centuries, the story of the Bell Witch has spread far and wide, celebrated in song and literature. The Bell family farm and the cave where Betsy Bell was said to rescued by the rogue spirit are one of Tennessee’s oldest tourist attractions. Hooton has been working at the Bell Witch Cave since she was 13. “People have been doing tours here since the 1930s,” she says. “It’s been open to the public for close to 100 years.” October is the perfect time to make the drive to Adams, which is just outside Clarksville, about three hours north of Memphis. Hooten says visitors should be prepared to walk. “I would definitely wear old shoes. The cave is still in its natural state. Since it’s on the National Register of Historic Places, it can’t be modified, so we can’t put paved walkways and handrails through it. It’s not that kind of cave!” The leaves turn in mid-October, making the farm a beautiful destination for spooky season. Just keep an eye on the shadows. The Bell Witch Cave offers Haunted Hayrides on Fridays and Saturdays in October from 7 p.m. to midnight. Visitors can also take tours on Fridays from 5 p.m. to midnight, Saturdays from noon to midnight, and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. More information: www.bellwitchcave.com 52 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6
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BALANCE IN THE UNIVERSE F CAROL BUCHMAN AND ROY TAMBOLI COMPLEMENT EACH OTHER IN ART AND IN LIFE. BY JON W. SPARKS
OR MORE THAN 30 YEARS,
Memphis has enjoyed the rich creative fruits of two artists united in work and in life. You’ve almost certainly seen their works around town, inside and out. We recently caught up with Carol Buchman and Roy Tamboli, who are living proof that a couple can be very different and remarkably similar at the same time.
PHOTOGRAPH BY JON W. SPARK S
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CARO L BUC H MAN
After retiring a couple of years ago from Grace-St. Luke’s, where she taught art for more than 25 years, Carol Buchman has exhibited in solo and group shows at Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, and many other venues in town. Her work resides in national and international collections. In other words, she’s always been busy creating, and she will gladly share how she goes about it, particularly if you can visit her studio — although the experience is somewhat overwhelming. Her works sprawl throughout the space and every glance will show you a different medium from a different time and in a different style.
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SIPS
“Over the course of my life,” she says, “I have explored for many years at a time about eight different themes.” There was never any question about her calling to be an artist. She points at a work, saying, “Thunder and Lightning, those two horses, is my oldest theme going back to when I was six years old.” The horse artworks all around the studio are proof. In the 1980s, Buchman was mesmerized by cars and started painting them, beginning with a Chevy Malibu. She’s done a bunch, typically 48x48-inch canvases, which “makes me feel very alive, very invigorated. It’s observational and physical.” And there are tangible rewards: The car repair shop she frequents has bartered three of the paintings for brakes and transmission work. Buchman has been in Memphis since the early 1990s and enjoyed working at an Episcopal school, but she knew something was missing. She was happy with her job and her marriage, but she felt isolated from her Jewishness. When she’d worked in New York and Boston, she took that part of her identity for granted, but in Memphis, she needed to reaffirm her spiritual and cultural grounding. “I started exploring family roots, first through old tablecloths that I inherited from 56 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6
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my father’s family,” she says. “This was also an inherited tablecloth that has Kabbalistic imagery, the Sefirot. And that was about some of the sadness in the family’s history and also about Biblical roots. We were a family that lost members in the Holocaust.” While exploring her heritage, she started taking classes to become much more learned in Judaism. “I did a deep, deep dive into rituals, blessings, traditions, stories,” she says. “I’ve been doing that for 30 years, very passionately. Now I’m sort of on the other end of it, but I find endless inspiration.” Buchman points to various works and photos of her works, telling their stories. She talks of her “Jew in the Lotus” series that’s a symbol for her of meditating upon a blessing, and the imagery that resonates with her: The Statue of Liberty holding Leo Rosten’s The Joys of Yiddish, a protective Jewish star in Hamsa to ward off evil, the symbol of Jacob’s ladder that serves as blessings for the openings of the body. Another aspect she pursues are the people she’s always observing and drawing, keeping them in notebooks and sketchbooks. “I”ve been keeping those for decades and I call them my At the Table series,” she says. “They’re capturing people unmasked, vulnerable, listening,
Carol Buchman in her studio, surrounded by work s representing themes explored for years.
being themselves, ugly, pretty, weird — humanity in a gathering of some sort.” More about those vulnerable, anonymous gatherings later. Most recently, she’s been turning her attention to plants. She may create in the studio, but she much prefers to be on location. Buchman insists she isn’t a botanic artist, though she immerses herself in the environment whenever possible to capture the essence of flora. One of the most gratifying themes is one she shares with Tamboli — landscapes. “Roy and I work side by side when we travel and it’s so wonderful,” she says. The couple will put on some music and survey the landscape, each taking in what will inspire them. She brings gouache to paint on the spot and he’ll bring his own media (including sheets — but more about that in a moment). What they don’t create on the spot, they’ll recreate when back in their studios. And they travel extensively: Portugal, Chile, PHOTOGRAPH BY JON W. SPARK S
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LEF T: Pangaean D isc looms over the Poplar Viaduc t . BELOW: Tamboli in his studio.
and they are my protectors. I’ve been drawing them since I was six, and so they show up.” She reflects that now, “at this stage of my life, I like doing commissions because I like art that is relational. So I do some car commissions, pet commissions, what I call heritage portrait commissions. That’s a whole ’nother thing.” Having done the tour of her studio and taking in the staggering amount of influences, media, and inspiration, Buchman pauses. Because as much as she absorbs and turns out, there is more in her partnership with Tamboli. He has been quietly shadowing us around her studio, pointing out various works or tools that she uses, and pulling out pieces that need a better look. “Roy and I are so different,” she says. “I’m more of a narrative artist, he’s abstract. We give each other great feedback. We’re not competitive; we’re really supportive. I think we understand that if either one of us needs to spend art-making time or studio time, that we don’t mess with it. And when we can do it together, it’s really lovely.”
R O Y TA M B O L I
and Sardinia are but a few destinations. Tamboli says, “We have fun working together. I’d say at least half the time it’s on a beach somewhere. We were recently in Laos and Thailand on a couple of these little islands and we rented a scooter. We’d get on it and take off with all our supplies in our backpack and go to a beach and paint for the day and have lunch there and scoot around through the forest. And then the next day we’d do it again to a different beach. And it was magic. I’d say, ‘Carol, are we dreaming this or is this really happening? The only thing that would be better is if there was no phone service.” Buchman, pointing out works in her studio, looks at a self-portrait and is reminded of an influence. “I’m obsessed with a painter named Alice
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Neel, who’s very psychological. Sometimes her figures are distorted, but they’re very honest, probing. And that’s what I was after more than a likeness or making myself pretty. And a number of my friends have said, ‘You’ve got to lighten up on those wrinkles, and you don’t look like that.’ But that’s not what I was after.” She enjoys using oils, collages, and acrylics in the studio. Cars are done with acrylic because she needs to work quickly with big brushes, but for plants she uses “little bitty brushes and it’s a whole different energy.” On her travels, she favors gouache because she can travel light, the colors are rich, cleanup is easy, and it dries fast. You’ll see cats in her work, and those hold a particularly fondness. “Those are like me. Not to look like me, but my cats are my loveys
We then go from her Midtown studio a few blocks over to his space. You probably know where it is if you’ve ever dined at Tamboli’s Pasta & Pizza on Madison Avenue. Tamboli bought the building, once known as Hatley’s Garage, in 1998 and converted part of it into a restaurant space. His son, Miles Tamboli, now owns the restaurant, and if your timing is right, you can eat a meal and get a tour of Roy’s studio next door. It’s an ample space with massive canvases and larger sculptures all about, plus lockers and tools and straps and a Riley’s Outfitter kayak hanging from the ceiling. Tamboli gets right into it, quoting music producer Rick Rubin: “He said, ‘How can we demand more from music, from musicians?’ And I say, ‘How do you demand more from art and artists?’ I’ve been doing a lot of abstract work, but my background is largely sculpture.” That includes figurative sculpture, “because being an artist in Memphis, it’s important to be versatile in different disciplines. If you live on it, you need to be able to do stuff for commissions. I became pretty good at figurative sculpture, but I never really tried much in the way of painting, so I decided to challenge
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JON W. SPARK S
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myself and demand a little more and try to put some figurative work into the abstract to fuse them together to see if I could do it, if I could successfully execute what I was seeing in my mind.” But there is more for him than shifting media. There is the integrity of the art, and the pressures of society. “I was becoming more aware of how immersed we are in technology now, our phones and AI and all that,” he says. “I feel like I — along with other people — am getting lost in it and drifting more and more away from relationships and personal contact. I’m more isolated with my screen time and devices and all that. I thought if I allowed a little more figurative influence in my work, it might help restore some of that human connection.” For Tamboli, it’s important to be an activist in the relationship with technology. “Don’t let us get lost where everything is digital and we don’t know what’s real anymore,” he says. “What we’re doing right now [referring to our conversation] is very real — it’s not digital or virtual or anything like that. And I think one of the roles artists are going to be playing more and more in the future is: How do we keep humanism alive and well in an age where everything is disappearing into technology?” He continues to explore the relationship between the abstract and the representational. “Abstraction is a flow. It’s a really free dowhatever-you-want feeling,” he says. “And I love that. But I also love bringing it all back in to do something a little more intentional here, not just wild and crazy. I want to challenge myself to do something that is part of the story that means something to me and might mean something to other people, by honing in on some more challenging representational elements and not just pure, random, spontaneous, jazzy art. I love that too, but I don’t want it to be the only thing.” When he’s on the road with Buchman, and she’s packing her gouache, Tamboli is bringing sheets. “They’re so easy to travel with,” he says. “It’s not heavy canvas. I put a lot of color on them and get really free with the work and the paint and start making things. When I bring them back here, they become a little more focused and finished looking. But I like the freedom part of doing whatever’s emotional and random at the time.” The sheets are, by the way, acquired from thrift stores. “Number one, they’re a good price. I can look at the fabric and find what I want. And they have history. When you start thinking about all the things that happen on sheets, it’s not just sexual stuff — you read, you cry, you laugh, you sleep, you dream. That’s on a sheet too. Real-life people used this thing.” Tamboli was brought up Catholic, but his
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spiritual interests are wide-ranging. “I’ve always been interested in Buddhism, but when we were immersed in it in Laos and Thailand, it became even more important to me as a symbol of peace, detachment, things like that.” He points out one of his works that has a guy with his hands up. “That is a symbol, that Buddha is about no fighting in the family. Like, “Stop it. No fighting in the family.” Look around and you’ll also see insects, the Egyptian deity Sekmet, landscapes, and a wheelbarrow surfboard. “It’s all connected,” he says. “I think about that when I’m painting that there really are collections of atoms that make things, and the brush is just a way of rearranging the atoms to make them into things that we can recognize and feel. I’m always thinking about how we are in this big soup of elements that we’re floating in, and that becomes the background for a lot of these pieces.” One of Tamboli’s most recognized sculpture stands at the Poplar Viaduct near Walnut Grove Road, a massive work titled Pangaean Disc. “I can’t remember exactly what the genesis of the idea was,” he admits, “but one of the things I was trying to express with that is the whole big world, and then at the bottom there’s this canister that has three babies in it. I was thinking about the contrast between all this steel and the continents and the movement and all the things that are going on in the earth and these three little innocent children down at the bottom.” He covered the babies — dolls, actually — in wax to make them look even more fragile, and added rods coming out of the continents above them. “There’s like 50 cities on there with rings around them, and there’s a rod coming out of the middle of each of those cities. I call them prayer rods. The idea is that they’re attracting some kind of help from above, something spiritual.” Tamboli believes we need some kind of divine intervention at times to cope with each other and what’s going on in the world — especially the children who are completely dependent on what adults are doing. “So that’s where that one came from,” he says, “And of course some of it was I wanted to build something big, and I had access to a good fabricating shop downtown.” He also went to an engineer to make sure it wouldn’t collapse, and that brings up another notable piece he created. The Max Rose Monument in Elmwood Cemetery was created in 2014 to honor the memory of William “Max” Rose, a Rhodes College student who died in a car accident. The idea came from Max’s mother, philanthropist and businesswoman Gayle Rose, and depicts Max being lifted by a majestic, winged figure. Tamboli’s creation came from a vision, and bringing the vision to reality proved complicated. “It turned out to have a lot of odd
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engineering challenges in it, especially with the angel at the top that’s kind of coming off the sculpture,” he says. “The whole thing has a lot of stainless-steel pipe inside of it. The engineers had to figure out how to make that pipe, and then it had to fit inside the bronze, which was already being made. It really was miraculous that the whole thing fit together the way it did and it worked.” We’ve finished the tour of Tamboli’s studio, and the question then arises about these two very different and very similar artists. Different religious backgrounds, different uses of media, separate studio environments. And yet theirs is a complementary relationship, traveling the world together, supporting each other, sharing inspiration. One common experience is that they both had immigrant grandparents. “His was Italian and she made the ravioli and mine were Old World from Europe — Polish and Russian,” Buchman says.
BUCHMAN A N D TA M B O L I How did they fall in love? “You want the true story?” he asks. “We can give him the true story,” she says, “and then he can decide what to do.” And then they say, in unison, “We met in AA.” They met in the early 1990s when she had been sober since 1980. He’d been sober about a year. Buchman remembers being in a Midtown restaurant with girlfriends when he came by their table. They’d told her he was famous, plus he had a truck and maybe he could help her ship some artworks. “We were both artists,” he says. “We were both in recovery. It was okay!” And now they’ve been married 29 years — her first marriage, his second. The AA connection remains one of their bonds. Tamboli says, “One of the things that has been really fun to do when we travel is go to AA meetings. So we’ve been to meetings in Spanish, Portuguese, Hindi. Even though you can’t always speak the language, you can tell what they’re talking about. When they start reading a prayer or the 12 steps or the Big Book, you can tell what’s going on, even though it’s a foreign language.” Buchman adds that they like to meditate together. “We meditate, go to meetings, do art,” she says. “And I kind of do my own Jewish thing, but he’s always been very, very supportive. And sometimes he’ll go with me to something. And it’s worked out because I realized that’s not really his job, that if I want to cultivate that part of me, that I have to develop my own network.” In other words, a constant flow of inspiration going both ways.
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MEN WEAR PINK OF MEMPHIS: LEADING THE STYLE. LEADING THE CHARGE. THE POWER OF PINK
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WOMEN to WATCH SUSAN AKIL EWING
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For nearly three decades, Susan Ewing has helped organizations turn ideas into strategies that build brands, strengthen visibility and drive growth. As Founder & Chief Navigator of Ewing Marketing Partners, she serves as a trusted marketing partner to businesses and nonprofits throughout the Mid-South. A 2024 Memphis Business Journal Super Woman in Business, Susan combines strategic thinking, creativity and a deep commitment to community service to make a lasting impact for clients and the community.
Kathryn Clark is the Principal Builder for K. Clark Homes and has been part of the building community in Memphis, for over 15 years. She has been a longstanding member with the West Tennessee Home Builders Association, National Association of Home Builders, Urban Land Institute, Professional Women in Building and the Memphis Area Association of Realtors. She holds the Certified Graduate Builder and Certified Aging in Place Designations from the National Association of Home Builders as well as an OSHA certification and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Memphis. K. Clark Homes specializes in custom and market homes with a focus currently in Fayette County.
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Dr. Chinelo Animalu is double boardcertified in infectious diseases and internal medicine. She is currently an associate professor at the College of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC ) Memphis, and an infectious disease attending physician at Methodist University Hospital, Memphis, where she also serves as the medical director of infectious diseases and geographic medicine for Methodist LeBonheur Healthcare, Memphis. She is a Fellow of the American College of Medicine (FACP) and a Fellow of the Infectious Disease Society of America (FIDSA). Special Assistant on State HIV Diaspora Coordination and Development to His E xcellenc y, Governor Chuk wuma Soludo. youtube.com/@themedicalclass.901
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SIPS
Connor Fox and an Old-Fashioned.
TENNESSEE WHISKEY
AT OLD DOMINICK DISTILLERY, THE SPIRITS AND THE BARTENDER ARE BOTH HOME-GROWN. BY BRUCE VANWYNGARDEN
C
O N N O R F O X K N O W S a lot about drinks, which is understandable. He’s a bartender, after all. And he also knows a lot about Old Dominick Distillery, his employer for the past eight years or so. And that’s because he got his start at Chris and Alex Canale’s downtown mainstay by working as a tour guide while he was a student at the University of Memphis. ¶ “I was a history and anthropology major,” Fox says. “And as a junior at the U of M, I got a job here leading tours. It was a great fit because it’s obviously a historic building — the former home of Memphis Machine Works — but the best part was that I was able to get school credits for working here. That sounded like a pretty good deal to a 21-year-old, and it was.” And it was just the beginning of what’s become a lasting relationship. “I remember right after I started here as a tour guide, a couple of the production guys asked me if I wanted to try some of their new bourbon,” Fox says. “I said, ‘Sure,’ and they just opened the tap and poured some into a paper cup. It was wonderful. I thought then, ‘I’m never going to leave this place.’” So far, Fox has been true to his word: “I kept working here after I graduated,” he says, “and then Covid happened and we shut down for a
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year. When we reopened in March 2021, they made me a tour guide and a bartender.” It was a great fit, Connor says. “I love being a bartender. I have a passion for mixology, I love people, and I love being in front of people, so it was just a natural progression.” That progression has continued, as Fox was soon promoted to bar manager, and more recently to general manager. “It’s been a quick rise,” he says. Fox’s enthusiasm for Old Dominick’s products is obvious, as is his pride in their quality.
“Almost everything we serve here, we make in-house,” he says. “That includes our gin and vodka and our award-winning whiskeys, but we also make liqueurs — like fernet, elderflower, amara, and absinthe — and our own bitters. We even make our own ice cubes,” he says with a smile. I look around and remark on the size of the space, which has a large three-sided bar with a rear glass wall open to the distillery itself. “Yes, it’s a big space and a big bar,” Fox says. “On Fridays and Saturdays, we often need more than one person back here. We get a lot of tourists, but we’re also a neighborhood bar with lots of regulars, so it can get crowded sometimes. We don’t serve food, but we allow you to bring your own, so a lot of people get Gus’s from across the street. Fried chicken and whiskey — a classic Memphis combination,” he laughs. “What’s your most popular cocktail?” I ask. “Definitely our old Old-Fashioneds, which of course feature our whiskeys,” Fox says. “Would you like to try one?” “You read my mind.” As he prepares the drink, Fox walks me through the process: “I use our house-made orange bitters,” he says, “which I make using orange peel, cinnamon, cardamom, and other spices, and then sous vide the mix. I also add Angostura bitters and Demerara unprocessed sugar. And, for you, I’m using our 85 proof Tennessee Whiskey, which won Double Gold in the America’s Best Spirits awards as Best in Category. It’s sweet and light and summery, and the only Tennessee whiskey made in West Tennessee.” Before too long, the drink — nestled in a short cut-glass tumbler — is sitting before me on the vintage hardwood bar. It seems to be calling my name, so I answer promptly, letting the rich cocktail work its magic. It’s a heady, intoxicating blend that initiates with an earthy sweetness and resolves with a potent but smooth whiskey finish. It’s truly a stellar Old-Fashioned, one worthy of that cocktail’s historic lineage. And, as is apparent by now, if anyone knows history — and cocktails — it’s Connor Fox, the amiable and knowledgeable fellow on the other side of the bar at Old Dominick Distillery. I recommend you head downtown and let him create one just for you. Old Dominick Distillery, 305 South Front St. PHOTOGRAPHS BY BRUCE VANWYNGARDEN
9/12/26 12:05 PM
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Locations: 2316 S. Germantown Rd. Germantown 1149 Union Ave. Downtown/Midtown hollidayflowers.com • 901.753.2400
CITY DINING
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, $-$$ COZY CORNER—Serving up ribs, pork sandwiches, chicken, spaghetti, and more; also homemade banana pudding. Closed Mon. 735 N. Parkway, 527-9158. L, D, $ CURFEW—An elevated sports bar/American tavern concept by Top Chef contestant Fabio Viviani at the Canopy Memphis Downtown hotel. 164 Union, 467-0308. B, L, D, $-$$ DOCKS OFF FIFTH—Fine dining and special plates, including mango habanero-glazed salmon, seafood linguini, glazed lamb “lollipops,“ lobster rolls, plus wings and sliders. 310 Beale, 423-3765264. D, $$$ ESCO RESTAURANT AND TAPAS—Shareable dishes, turkey ribs, and seafood mac’n’cheese at this 2 Chainz franchise. 156 Lt. George W. Lee, 808-3726. L, D, $$-$$$ FELICIA SUZANNE’S—Elevated down-home farmhouse food, using locally sourced ingredients, served in an atmoshere of classic Southern charm. 383 S. Main, 623-7883. L, D, $$$-$$$$. FERRARO’S CHEESY CORNER & PIZZERIA—Plenty of pizzas, along with a whole new cheese-inspired menu (fancy grilled cheeses and build-your-own mac and cheese bowls). 111 Jackson, 522-2033. L, D, $ H I S C U R AT E D restaurant listing is offered as FISHBOWL AT THE PYRAMID—Burgers, fish dishes, sandwiches, and more served in a unique “underwater” setting. Bass Pro, 1 Bass Pro a service to our readers. Broken down alphabetically Drive, 291-8000. B, L, D, $-$$ by neighborhoods, our directory does not list every FLAME RAMEN—Traditional Japanese ramen restaurant serving up restaurant in town. It does, however, include the bowls of noodles. 61 S. Second, 441-6686. L, D, wheelchair accessible, $-$$ magazine’s “Top 50” choices of must-try restaurants in FLIGHT RESTAURANT & WINE BAR—Steaks and seafood, Memphis, a group that is updated yearly. Establishments with such specialties as bison ribeye and Muscovy duck, all matched with appropriate wines. 39 S. Main, 521-8005. D, SB, MRA, open less than a year are not eligible for “Top 50” but are noted as “New.” This guide also includes a representative sampling of other Bluff City eating $-$$$GARDEN BRUNCH CAFÉ—Fish and grits, steak and eggs, and establishments. No fast-food facilities or cafeterias are listed. Restaurants other upscale takes on Southern brunch classics. 492 S. Main, 249-7450. B, L, $$ are included regardless of whether they advertise in Memphis Magazine; THE GENRE—Burgers, tenders, catfish, and plenty of vegan options those that operate in multiple locations are listed under the neighborhood made to order at this music-themed restaurant/lounge. 200 Poplar, Suite 105, 410-8169. B, L, D, $-$$ of their original location. This guide is updated regularly, but we GOOD FORTUNE CO.—Authentic handcrafted noodles, ramen, recommend that you call ahead to check on hours, prices, or other details. and dumplings. 361 S. Main, 561-306-4711. L, D, $-$$ Suggestions from readers for restaurants to be included are welcome: THE GOURMET GALLERY—A variety of elevated comfort dishes, like fried ribs and waffles, shrimp and grits, grilled salmon, and more. Closed dining@memphismagazine.com. Mon. 412 S. Main, 848-4691. L, D, $-$$$ GROOVY GRATITUDE—Offers a vibrant selection of cold-pressed DOWNTOWN BRASS DOOR IRISH PUB—Irish and New-American cuisine includes juices, handcrafted smoothies, and healthy eats like paninis and acai such entrees as fish and chips, burgers, shepherd’s pie, all-day Irish bowls. Closed Sun. 605 N. Second, 417-8007. B, L, WB, $ ALDO’S PIZZA PIES—Serving gourmet pizzas — including Mr. breakfast, and more. 152 Madison, 572-1813. L, D, SB, $-$$ T Rex — salads, and more. Also 30 beers, bottled or on tap. 100 S. GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN—Serves chicken BY THE BREWERY—Breakfast and lunch café, with a focus on Main, 577-7743; 752 S. Cooper, 725-7437. L, D, $-$$ with signature spicy batter, along with homemade beans, slaw, and Southern-style biscuits, salads, and soups. 496 Tennessee, 310-4341. pies. 310 S. Front, 527-4877; 3100 Forest Hill Irene (Germantown), AMELIA GENE’S—Globally inspired fine-dining cuisine at the B, L, $ 853-6005; 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 373-9111; 730 S. 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—Offers prime steaks, extensive cheese cart. 255 S. Front, 730-7650. D, MRA, $$-$$$ L, D, MRA, $ fresh seafood (lobster tails, grouper, mahi mahi), pasta, and several THE ARCADE—Memphis’ oldest cafe. Specialties include sweet Northern Italian specialties. 149 Union, The Peabody, 529-4199. B, L, D, HIVE BAGEL & DELI—Bagels, bagels, and more bagels at this potato pancakes, a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, and SB, MRA, $-$$$$ new downtown deli offering baked goods, sandwiches, and breakfast served all day. 540 S. Main, 526-5757. B, L, MRA, $ salads. Closed Mon./Tue. 276 S. Front, 509-2946. B, L, $ CAROLINA WATERSHED—This indoor/outdoor eatery, set around ARNOLD’S SMOKEHOUSE—A classic smokehouse with vegan and silos, features reimagined down-home classics, including fried green HU. ROOF—Rooftop cocktail bar serves toasts with a variety of toppings nonvegan options seasoned to perfection. Closed Mon. 2019 E. Person, tomatoes with smoked catfish, a buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, including beef tartare with cured egg, cognac, and capers or riced 922-5950. L, D, SB, $-$$$ burgers, and more. Closed Mon.-Thurs. 141 E. Carolina, cauliflower with yellow curry, currants, and almonds. AUTOMATIC SLIM’S—Longtime downtown favorite specializes in DINING SYMBOLS Also salads, fish tacos, and boiled peanut hummus. 79 321-5553. L, D, WB, $-$$ contemporary American cuisine emphasizing local ingredients; also Madison, 333-1229. D, $ CATHERINE & MARY’S—A variety of pastas, extensive martini list. 83 S. Second, 525-7948. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$ B — breakfast grilled quail, pâté, razor clams, and monkfish are HUSTLE & DOUGH BAKERY & CAFE— BARDOG TAVERN—Classic American grill with Italian influence, among the dishes served at this Italian restaurant in the L — lunch Flaky, baked breakfast goodness every day with Bardog offers pasta specialties such as Grandma’s NJ Meatballs, as well D — dinner Chisca. 272 S. Main, 254-8600. D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ fresh pastries, sandwiches, and more at Arrive Hotel. as salads, sliders, sandwiches, and daily specials. 73 Monroe, 275-8752. SB —Sunday brunch 477 S. Main, 701-7577. B, L, $ CHEZ PHILIPPE—Classical/contemporary B (Mon.-Fri.), L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$ French cuisine with Asian and Nordic influences, WB —weekend brunch ITTA BENA—Southern and Cajun-American cuisine BELLE TAVERN—Serving elevated bar food, including a butcher board presented in a luxurious atmosphere with seasonal served here, located above B.B. King’s Blues Club on MRA — member, Memphis with a variety of meats and cheeses, as well as daily specials. 117 Barboro tasting menus from chef Keith Clinton. Afternoon tea Beale St.; specialties are duck and waffles and shrimp Restaurant Association Alley, 249-6580. L (Sun.), D, MRA, $ served Thu.-Sun., noon-3:30 p.m. (reservations and grits, along with steaks, chops, seafood, and pasta. $ — under $15 per person BEN YAY’S GUMBO SHOP—Spiritual successor to DejaVu, offering required). Closed Sun.-Tues. The Peabody, 149 Union, 145 Beale, 578-3031. D, MRA, $$-$$$ fresh and authentic Creole staples. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111, without drinks or desserts 529-4188. D, MRA, $$$$ JEM DINING—Chef Josh Mutchnick offers a 779-4125. L, D, $-$$ $$ — under $25 CIMAS—It’s breakfast tacos, shrimp and grits, dining experience that’s memorable, refined, BISCUITS & JAMS—Offering sweet and savory brunch with a Cajun $$$ — $26-$50 chilaquiles verdes, and plenty of other Southern and unpretentious, and welcoming with dishes from around flare. Specialties include smoked sausage or spicy fried chicken on Latin-American twists at the Hyatt Centric. 33 Beale, $$$$ — over $50 the world. Closed Sun./Mon./Tue. 644 Madison, 286biscuits, lemon blueberry waffles, and rum custard French toast. No 444-3232. B, L, D, $-$$$ 1635. D, $$-$$$ walk-ins on weekends. 24 N. B.B. King Blvd., 672-7905. B, L, WB, $-$$
We celebrate our city’s community table and the people who grow, cook, and eat the best Memphis food at M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M / F O O D 72 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6
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(This guide, compiled by our editors, includes editorial picks and advertisers.)
PHOTOGRAPH BY JUSTIN FOX BURKS
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CITY DINING
KING & UNION BAR GROCERY—Classic Southern favorites including catfish plate, pimento cheese, po-boys, chicken & waffles. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with cocktails served with flair and favorite Memphis beers. Locally made confections available in the grocery. 185 Union, 523-8500. B, L, D, $-$$ 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, $-$$ KUYA—The name means “brother” and this restaurant presents a menu inspired by dishes of the Phillipines: lumpia, halo halo, skewers, and small plates. 327 South Main, 574-4493. D, $-$$ 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; 820 S. Cooper, 443-4356. 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, 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. 88 Union, 527-5337; 5960 Getwell (Southaven), 662-8902467. D, SB, $$-$$$ MOLLIE FONTAINE LOUNGE—Specializes in tapas (small plates) featuring global cuisine. Closed Sun.-Tues. 679 Adams, 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, 587-6256. L, D, $-$$ SABOR CARIBE—Serving up “Caribbean flavors” with dishes from Colombia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Closed Sunday. 662 Madison, 949-8100. L, D, $ SAGE—Restaurant and lounge features daily lunch specials and tapas with such dishes as braised short ribs, teriyaki pulled pork, and the Sage burger made with Angus beef, avocado mash, fried egg, and flash-fried sage. 94 S. Main, 672-7902. L, D, WB, $-$$
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CITY DINING
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, 286-1360. L, D, WB, $-$$ SOUTH POINT GROCERY—Fresh and delicious sandwiches made to order at Downtown’s new grocery market. 136 Webster. B, L, D, $ SUGAR GRITS—Who said breakfast has to be in the morning? The Westmorelands offer grits and other breakfast goodness all day long, in addition to other Southern-style lunch and dinner options. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111, 249-5206. B, L, D, $-$$ 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, $$ TEXAS DE BRAZIL—Serves beef, pork, lamb, and chicken dishes, and Brazilian sausage; also a salad bar with extensive toppings. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 103, 526-7600. L (Wed.-Fri.), D, WB, $$-$$$ TUG’S—Famous for New Orleans gumbo, fabulous burgers, fried thin catfish, and specialty pancakes. Now serving Grisanti Crafted Pizza. 51 Harbor Town Square, 260-3344. B, L, D, WB, $$-$$$ WAHLBURGERS WILD—Wahlburgers brings its classic menu, but with a few gamey twists at the Bass Pro Pyramid. 1 Bass Pro Drive, 291-8000. B, L, D, $-$$ WALT & RICKY’S SEAFOOD KITCHEN—Fresh seafood, steaks, pork chops, and pasta, with a raw oyster bar. One Dr. Martin Luther King Avenue, 480-7426. L, D, $$-$$$. WINGMAN—Downtown lounge and hookah bar offering wings galore with ten signature sauces, and plenty of other goodies. 143 Madison, 907-0586. D, WB, $-$$ MIDTOWN (INCLUDES THE MEDICAL CENTER) ABYSSINIA RESTAURANT—Ethiopian/Mediterranean menu includes beef, chicken, lamb, fish entrees, and vegetarian dishes; also a lunch buffet. 2600 Poplar, 321-0082. L, D, $-$$ ART BAR—Inventive cocktails feature locally foraged ingredients; snacks include house-cured salt & vinegar potato chips and herb-roasted olives. Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, 507-8030. D, $ ASHTAR GARDEN—Southern twists on classic brunch dishes, and plenty of cocktails. Closed Mon.-Wed. 898 S. Cooper, 443-1514. 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; 2016 South Germantown, 779-7954. B, L, $-$$ BAO TOAN—Traditional Vietnamese restaurant offering small bites and home-style plates, plus creative versions of street-food favorites. 1350 Concourse Avenue. 695-1265. L, D, WB. Closed Tues. $-$$ 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 Cooper-Young neighborhood corner bar by Kevin Keough. 247 S. Cooper, 654-3851. 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, $-$$ BROADWAY PIZZA—Serving a variety of pizzas, including the Broadway Special, as well as sandwiches, salads, wings, and soul-food specials. 2581 Broad, 454-7930; 627 S. Mendenhall, 207-1546. L, D, $-$$ BRIZA—Featuring specialties from the chef Moisés Hernandez’s native El Salvador, around the theme “Land–Sushi–Sea.” 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 181, 585-0553. L, D, MRA, $$-$$$ 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, $-$$$ CAFE ECLECTIC—Omelets and chicken and waffles are among menu items, along with quesadillas, sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. Menu varies by location. 603 N. McLean, 725-1718; 111 Harbor Town Square, 590-4645. B, L, D, SB, MRA, $ CAMEO—Three longtime Memphis bartenders join forces for creative cocktails, cheese boards, snacks, and Sunday brunch. 1835 Union, Suite 3. 305-6511. D, SB, $-$$ 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, $-$$ CENTRAL BBQ—Serves ribs, smoked hot wings, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken, turkey, nachos, and portobello sandwiches. Offers both pork and beef barbecue. 2249 Central, 272-9377; 4375 Summer, 767-4672; 147 E. Butler, 672-7760 ; 6201 Poplar, 417-7962. L, D, MRA, $-$$ COMPLICATED PILGRIM—Quick-serve coffee shop, bar, and restaurant all in one at The Memphian hotel. 21 S. Cooper, 538-7309. B, L, D, $-$$ COOPER’S—“A charming experience for all ages,“ with po-boys, wraps, wings, fettucini. 959 S. Cooper, 343-0103. L, D, MRA, $-$$ 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. D, $-$$ EVERGREEN GRILL—Serving classic American cuisine like patty melts, burgers, phillies, and more to bring you the comforting taste of home. Closed Mon./Tue. 212 N. Evergreen, 779-7065. L, D, X,$$-$$$ FARM BURGER—Serves grass-fed, freshly ground, locally sourced burgers; also available with chicken, pork, or veggie quinoa patties, with such toppings as aged white cheddar, kale coleslaw, and roasted beets. 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 175, 800-1851. L, D, $ FAWN—Seasonal, tapas-style dishes (don’t miss the sourdough bread and butter) in a chic setting. Closed Mon. 937 S. Cooper, 310-4890. D, SB, $$ FEAST & GRAZE—Whipped goat toast, open-faced grilled cheese, and other local pantry snacks and charcuterie boards. Closed Sun./Mon. Inside Brooks Museum of Art, 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 (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, $-$$ FLIP SIDE—Pinball meets pub in the Crosstown neighborhood, with plenty of games alongside a Caribbean- and Latin-inspired menu. Closed Mon. 1349 Autumn, 207-6193. L, D, $-$$ 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, 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, $-$$ GUAC FRESH MEX—Authentic Mexican cuisine and four types of guacamole. Closed Sun. 782 Washington, 587-4100. L, D, $ HATTIE B’S—Fried chicken spot features “hot chicken” with a variety of heat levels; from no heat to “shut the cluck up” sauce. Sides include greens, pimento mac-and-cheese, and black-eyed pea salad. 596 S. Cooper, 424-5900. L, D, $ HUEY’S—This family-friendly restaurant offers 13 different burgers, a variety of sandwiches, and delicious soups and salads. 1927 Madison, 726-4372; 1771 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 754-3885; 77 S. Second (downtown), 527-2700; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville), 8544455; 7090 Malco Blvd. (Southaven), 662-349-7097; 7825 Winchester, 624-8911; 4872 Poplar, 682-7729; 7677 Farmington Blvd. (Germantown), 318-3030; 8570 Highway 51 N. (Millington), 873-5025. L, D, MRA, $ IMAGINE VEGAN CAFE—Dishes at this fully vegan restaurant range from salads and sandwiches to full dinners, including eggplant parmesan and “beef” tips and rice; breakfast all day Sat. and Sun. 2158 Young, 654-3455. L, D, WB, $ INDIA PALACE—Tandoori chicken, lamb shish kabobs, and chicken tikka masala are among the entrees; also, vegetarian options and a daily all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. 1720 Poplar. 278-1199. L, D, $-$$ INSPIRE COMMUNITY CAFE—Serving breakfast all day, in addition to quesadillas, rice bowls, and more for lunch and dinner. 510 Tillman, Suite 110, 509-8640. B, L, D, $ JACK BROWN’S BEER AND BURGER JOINT—Another spot to satisfy your burger craving, this time with 100% American Wagyu beef. 2197 Central, 512-6957. L, D, $-$$$ THE JUICE JOINT—Locally owned purveyor of cold-pressed juices, smoothies, açai bowls, and snacks. 1350 Concourse Ave., 572-1127; 3139 Poplar Ave. (East Memphis), 207-2535. B, L, $-$$ LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM—Serves such Southern cuisine as po’boys, shrimp and grits, and wood-fired pizzas. 2119 Madison, 2075097. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$ LOS COMALES—Authentic Mexican cuisine, daily specials, and strong margaritas. 1322 Madison, 440-8393; 345 Madison Ave. (downtown), 590-4524; 2860 S. Perkins (East Memphis), 369-0528. L, D, $-$$ LOUIS CONNELLY’S BAR FOR FUN TIMES & FRIENDSHIP—An upgraded dive bar with a neighborhood feel and a rockin’ SMASH burger. Closed Sun. and Mon. 322 S. Cleveland, 433-9582. L, D, $-$$ MADISON TAVERN—Indoor and outdoor seating available, plus a full menu with a range of comfort foods and drinks on tap. 2126 Madison, 417-8029. L, D, $-$$$ 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. D, $ MEMPHIS JAMAICAN KITCHEN—Authentic Jamaican specialties, including jerk chicken and oxtails. 1354 Madison, L, D, $$ MEMPHIS PIZZA CAFE—Homemade pizzas are specialties; also serves sandwiches, calzones, and salads. 2087 Madison, 726-5343; 5061 Park, 684-1306; 7604 W. Farmington (Germantown), 753-2218; 797 W. Poplar (Collierville), 861-7800; 5627 Getwell (Southaven), 662-5361364. L, D, $-$$ MEMPHIS TOAST—Provides authentic Memphian breakfast cuisine and features themed rooms to honor iconic Memphis figures. Specialties include French toast, shrimp and grits, and their little Lucille breakfast burrito. 954 Jackson, 417-7817. B, L, WB, $-$$ MEMPHIS WHISTLE—Cocktails, cocktails, and even more delicious cocktails alongside burgers, sandwiches, and other tasty snacks. 2299 Young, 236-7136. Closed Mon.-Tue. D, $-$$ 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, $-$$
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PAYNE’S BAR-B-QUE—Opened in 1972, this family-owned barbecue joint serves ribs, smoked sausage, and chopped pork sandwiches with a standout mustard slaw and homemade sauce. About as down-to-earth as it gets. 1762 Lamar, 272-1523. L, D, $-$$ PETALS OF A PEONY—Authentic Chinese restaurant serving chicken, fish, tofu, and more, smothered in spicy sauces. 2110 Madison, 207-6680. L, D, MRA, $-$$$ SALTWATER CRAB—Offers an array of seafood dishes including boils with blue crab, crab legs, lobster tails, and more, and specialty sushi like the Dynamite or Royal King rolls, in addition to signature sangrias and cocktails. 2059 Madison, 922-5202. L, D, $$ 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, 276-0006. L, D, $-$$ SLICE MIDTOWN—Serving New York-style pizza as well as subs and pasta dishes (formerly known as Little Italy). 1495 Union 725-0280; L, D, $-$$ SMOKY CITY BBQ—Serving authentic Memphis barbeque, including burgers, ribs, wings, and daily specials. Closed Sun. 1023 Jackson, 4253115. 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, 474-7214. Closed Sunday. L, D, $ TEKILA MEXICAN CUISINE—Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Specialties include chicken mole, enchiladas verde, and the trio special. 1433 Union, 510-5734. L, D, WB, $-$$$ TAMBOLI’S PASTA & PIZZA—Pasta-maker Miles Tamboli whips up Italian soul food with seasonal menus featuring dishes like crispy fried chicken or creamy bucatini with pecorino cheese. Serves dinner Tues.-Sat. 1761 Madison, 410-8866. D, $-$$ TAKASHI BISTRO—Fusion restaurant with an open kitchen that lets customers watch chefs prepare a variety of Japanese and Thai cuisine. 1680 Union, Suite 109, 800-2936. L, D, $-$$ TONICA—Paella and other Spanish-inspired dishes with an Italian touch, alongside an extensive list of gin and tonics. 1545 Overton Park, 474-7693; 265 S. Front, 949-7693. Closed Mon.-Wed. D, $-$$ TUYEN’S ASIAN BISTRO—A variety of Asian dishes from the minds and chefs behind Saigon Le. Closed Sun. 288 N. Cleveland, L, D, $-$$ ZINNIE’S—Dive bar classic reopens with a makeover and signature Zinnaloni sandwich. 1688 Madison, 726-5004. L, D, $ SOUTH MEMPHIS (INCLUDES PARKWAY VILLAGE, FOX MEADOWS, SOUTH MEMPHIS, WINCHESTER, AND WHITEHAVEN)
BALA’S BISTRO—Authentic West African cuisine available to order or by the pound, alongside traditional American dishes and an extensive vegan menu. 4571 Elvis Presley, 509-3024. L, D, $-$$ 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. 4202 Hacks Cross, Suite 121. 494-5458. D, $-$$ COLETTA’S—Longtime eatery serves such specialties as homemade ravioli, lasagna, and pizza with barbecue or traditional toppings. 1063 S. Parkway E., 948-7652. L, D, $-$$ CURRY BOWL—Specializes in Southern Indian cuisine, serving Tandoori chicken, biryani, tikka masala, and more. Weekend buffet. 4141 Hacks Cross, 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, 443-3000. B, D, $-$$$ DWJ KOREAN BARBECUE—This authentic Korean eatery serves kimbap, barbecued beef short ribs, rice and noodles dishes, and hot pots and stews. 3750 Hacks Cross, Suite 101. 746-8057; 2156 Young. 207-6204. L, D, $-$$
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, 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, 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, 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 (Southaven), 662-393-5699. L, D, $-$$ JIM & SAMELLA’S—It’s a revolving menu of soul food delight from Chef Talbert Fleming, with anything from Southern ribs to fried tamales. 841 Bullington, 265-8761. L, D, $ LEONARD’S—Serves wet and dry ribs, barbecue sandwiches, spaghetti, catfish, homemade onion rings, and lemon icebox pie; also a lunch buffet. 5465 Fox Plaza, 360-1963. L, $-$$ MARLOWE’S—In addition to its signature barbecue and ribs, Marlowe’s serves Southern-style steaks, chops, lasagna, and more. 4381 Elvis Presley, 332-4159. D, MRA, $-$$ UNCLE LOU’S FRIED CHICKEN—Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for good reason: fried chicken (mild, hot, or home-style); jumbo burgers four patties high; strawberry shortcake, and assorted fruit pies. 3633 Millbranch, 332-2367. L, D, MRA, $ SUMMER / BERCLAIR / RALEIGH / BARTLETT 901 HOT POT & KOREAN BBQ—All-you-can-eat hot pot and Korean BBQ, from short ribs to garlic shrimp. 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy., 512-4963. L, D, $$-$$$ BISCUITS & JAMS—Biscuits, waffles, French toast, and plenty of sharables at this Bartlett breakfast spot. Closed Mon./Tue. 5806 Stage, 672-7905. B, L, $ BRYANT’S BREAKFAST—Three-egg omelets, pancakes, and The Sampler Platter are among the popular entrees here. Possibly the best biscuits in town. Closed Mon. and Tues. 3965 Summer, 324-7494. B, L, $ CEVICHERIA AND GRILL CHILEMON—Ceviche, of course, but also plenty of other postres, aperitivos, and mixed grilled meat and seafood feasts. Closed Sun. 4509 Summer, 672-7905. L, D, $ CHEF FLAVAS AND BARTLETT BREAKFAST FACTORY— ”Flavaful” sandwiches, soups, pastas, and more from the makers of the popular local spinach artichoke dip. Traditional breakfast options served by Bartlett Breakfast Factory. Closed Sun./Mon. 6301 Stage, 779-2200. B, L, D, $-$$ 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, Suite 65, 766-0831. L, D, $-$$ ELWOOD’S SHACK—Casual comfort food includes tacos, pizza, and sandwiches. Specialties include meats smoked in-house (chicken, turkey, brisket, pork), barbecue pizza, and steelhead trout tacos. 4523 Summer, 761-9898. B, L, D, $ EXLINES’ BEST PIZZA—Serves pizza, Italian dinners, sandwiches, and salads. 6250 Stage, 382-3433; 2935 Austin Peay, 388-4711; 2801 Kirby Parkway, 754-0202; 7730 Wolf River Blvd. (Germantown), 753-4545; 531 W. Stateline, 662-342-4544. L, D, MRA, $ HABANA CLUB RESTAURANT, BAR & GRILLE—Offering authentic Cuban fare. 6110 Macon, 480-8173. L, D, $-$$ 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, Suite 3, 373-4411. L, D, $-$$ PANCAKE SHOP—Classic breakfast items plus meat-and-three lunches, sandwiches, soups, salads. Open 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. every day except Wednesday. 4838 Summer, 767-0206. B, L, $ ÓRALE TACOS & BAKERY—Tacos, enchiladas, and other traditional Southern Mexican dishes alongside baked pan dulces. 2204 Whitten, 571-1786. B, L, D, $-$$ 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, $-$$ QUEEN OF SHEBA—Featuring Middle Eastern favorites and Yemeni dishes such as lamb haneeth and saltah. 4792 Summer, 207-4174. L, D, $ SIDE PORCH STEAK HOUSE—In addition to steak, the menu includes chicken, pork chops, and fish entrees; homemade rolls are a specialty. Closed Sun./Mon. 5689 Stage, 377-2484. D, $-$$ TACO PRIME—Modern taqueria where bold Mexican dishes meet Southern hospitality. 8222 U.S. 64, 585-0858. Closed Sunday. L,D, $-$$ TORTILLERIA LA UNICA—Individual helping of Mexican street food, including hefty tamales, burritos, tortas, and sopes. 5015 Summer, 685-0097. B, L, D, $ UNIVERSITY NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICT (INCLUDES CHICKASAW GARDENS AND HIGHLAND STRIP)
A-TAN—Serves Chinese and Japanese hibachi cuisine, complete with sushi bar. A specialty is Four Treasures with garlic sauce. 3445 Poplar, Suite 17, University Center, 452-4477. L, D, $-$$$ BROTHER JUNIPER’S—This little cottage is a breakfast mecca, offering specialty omelets, including the open-faced San Diegan omelet; also daily specials, and homemade breads and pastries. Closed Mon. 3519 Walker, 324-0144. B, $ CHAR RESTAURANT—Specializing in modern Southern cuisine, this eatery offers homestyle sides, charbroiled steaks, and fresh seafood. 431 S. Highland, Suite 120, 249-3533. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$ EL PORTON—Fajitas, quesadillas, and steak ranchero are just a few of the menu items. 2095 Merchants Row (Germantown), 754-4268; 8361 Highway 64, 380-7877; 3448 Poplar (Poplar Plaza), 452-7330; 1805 N. Germantown Parkway (Cordova), 624-9358; 1016 W. Poplar (Collierville), 854-5770. L, D, MRA, $-$$ PLANT BASED HEAT—All of your favorite Southern-style recipes, but deliciously transformed into a vegan format. Specialties include the spicy fye junt burger, or the chopped ‘n’ smoked BBQ jackfruit sandwich. Closed Sun. 669 S. Highland St.; 363 S. Front St. (downtown). L, D, $ EAST MEMPHIS (INCLUDES POPLAR / I-240) ACRE—Features seasonal modern American cuisine in an avantegarde setting using locally sourced products; also small plates and enclosed garden patio. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 690 S. Perkins, 818-2273. L, D, $$-$$$ AGAVOS COCINA & TEQUILA—Camaron de Tequila, tamales, kabobs, and burgers made with a blend of beef and chorizo are among the offerings at this tequila-centric restaurant and bar. 2924 Walnut Grove, 433-9345. L, D, $-$$ AMERIGO—Traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine includes pasta, wood-fired pizza, steaks, and cedarwood-roasted fish. 1239 Ridgeway, Park Place Mall, 761-4000. L, D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ ANDALUSIA— Authentic Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, brochettes, and briouates. 5101 Sanderlin Ave., Suite 103, 236-7784. L, D, $-$$ ANDREW MICHAEL ITALIAN KITCHEN—Traditional Italian cuisine with a menu from two of the city’s top chefs that changes seasonally with such entrees as Maw Maw’s ravioli. Closed Sun.-Mon. 712 W. Brookhaven Circle, 347-3569. D, MRA, $$-$$$ ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE—Offering several varieties of eggs Benedict, waffles, omelets, pancakes, beignets, and other breakfast fare; also burgers, sandwiches, and salads. 6063 Park, 729-7020; 65 S. Highland, 623-7122. B, L, WB, $ BANGKOK ALLEY—Thai fusion cuisine includes noodle and curry dishes, chef-specialty sushi rolls, coconut soup, and duck and seafood entrees. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. at Brookhaven location; call for hours. 715 W. Brookhaven Circle, 590-2585; 2150 W. Poplar at Houston Levee (Collierville), 854-8748. L, D, $-$$
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BELLE MEADE SOCIAL—Upscale Americana cuisine including lamb lollipops, spicy tuna stack, and steak & noodle salad. 518 Perkins Extd., 480-7054. L, D, $-$$$ BELMONT GRILL—Burgers, steak sandwiches, and other classic American fare at one of Memphis’ longstanding bars. 4970 Poplar, 767-0305. L, D, $-$$ BENIHANA—This Japanese steakhouse serves beef, chicken, and seafood grilled at the table; some menu items change monthly; sushi bar also featured. 912 Ridge Lake Blvd., 767-8980. L, D, $$-$$$ BIG BAD BREAKFAST—Fresh biscuits, house-made cured meats, jams, jellies, and more for the most important meal of the day. 6450 Poplar, 881-3346. B, L, $-$$ BOG & BARLEY—An all-Irish fine dining experience by the owners of Celtic Crossing, and a full bar with plenty of beer and 25-year-old Macallan. 6150 Poplar, Suite 124, 805-2262. L, D, WB, $-$$ BROOKLYN BRIDGE ITALIAN RESTAURANT—Specializing in such homemade entrees as spinach lasagna and lobster ravioli; a seafood specialty is horseradish-crusted salmon. Closed Sun. 1779 Kirby Pkwy., 755-7413. D, $-$$$ CAPITAL GRILLE—Known for its dry-aged, hand-carved steaks; among the specialties are bone-in sirloin and porcini-rubbed Delmonico; also seafood entrees and seasonal lunch plates. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. Crescent Center, 6065 Poplar, 683-9291. L, D, $$$-$$$$ CASABLANCA—Lamb shawarma is one of the fresh, homemade specialties served at this Mediterranean/Moroccan restaurant; fish entrees and vegetarian options also available. 5030 Poplar, 725-8557; 1707 Madison, 421-6949. L, D, $-$$ CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL—Burritos, quesadillas, tacos, salads, and bowls made to order while customers watch. 5865 Poplar, 416-1944; 2046 Union, 729-2640; 4726 Summer, 590-1839; 2110 West St., 256-6202; 695 N. Germantown Parkway (Germantown), 416-1944. L, D, $-$$ CHUKIS TACOS 2—Traditional homestyle Mexican recipes. 3445 Poplar Ave., Suite 1, 888-4139. B, L, D, $-$$ CIAO BELLA—Among the Italian and Greek specialties are lasagna, seafood pasta, gourmet pizzas, and vegetarian options. 5101 Sanderlin, 205-2500. D, MRA, $-$$$ CITY SILO TABLE + PANTRY—With a focus on clean eating, this establishment offers fresh juices, as well as comfort foods re-imagined with wholesome ingredients. 5101 Sanderlin, 729-7687; 7605 W. Farmington, Suite 2, 236-7223 (Germantown). B, L, D, $ COASTAL FISH COMPANY—Upscale offerings of international fish varieties utilizing styles ranging from the Carribbean, East Coast, West Coast, China, Philippines, and more. 415 Great View Dr. E., Suite 101, 266-9000 (Shelby Farms Park). D, $$-$$$ CORKY’S—Popular barbecue emporium offers both wet and dry ribs, plus a full menu of other barbecue entrees. Wed. lunch buffets, Cordova and Collierville. 5259 Poplar, 685-9744; 1740 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 737-1911; 743 W. Poplar (Collierville), 405-4999; 6434 Goodman Rd., (Olive Branch), 662-893-3663. L, D, MRA, $-$$ THE CRAZY COOP—Plenty of hot wings and sauces, plus sandwiches and other dinner plates. 1315 Ridgeway, 748-5325; 7199 Stage (Bartlett), 433-9212. L, D, $-$$ DAN MCGUINNESS PUB—Serves fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, burgers, and other Irish and American fare; also lunch and dinner specials. 4694 Spottswood, 761-3711; 3964 Goodman (Southaven), 662-890-7611. L, D, $ ERLING JENSEN—For decades, Chef Erling has presented “globally inspired” cuisine to die for. Specialties are rack of lamb, biggame entrees, and fresh fish dishes. 1044 S. Yates, 763-3700. D, MRA, $$-$$$ ERLING JENSEN SMALL BITES—Enjoy Erling Jensen’s specialty dishes in a sharable, small-plate format alongside TopGolf Swing suites. 5069 Sanderlin, 587-9464. L, D, $-$$$ 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, $$$-$$$$ FOLK’S FOLLY ORIGINAL PRIME STEAK HOUSE— Specializes in prime steaks, as well as lobster, grilled Scottish salmon, Alaskan king crab legs, rack of lamb, and weekly specials. 551 S. Mendenhall, 762-8200. D, MRA, $$$-$$$$ FORMOSA—Offers Mandarin cuisine, including broccoli beef, hot-andsour soup, and spring rolls. Closed Mon. 6685 Quince, 753-9898. L, D, $-$$ FOX RIDGE PIZZA & GRILL—Pizzas, calzones, sub sandwiches, burgers, and meat-and-two plate lunches are among the dishes served at this eatery, which opened in 1979. 711 W. Brookhaven Circle, 758-6500. L, D, $
FRATELLI’S—Serves hot and cold sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts, all with an Italian/Mediterranean flair. Closed Sun. 750 Cherry Rd., Memphis Botanic Garden, 766-9900. L, $ HALF SHELL—Specializes in seafood, such as king crab legs; also serves steaks, chicken, pastas, salads, sandwiches, and a ”voodoo menu.” 688 S. Mendenhall, 682-3966; 9091 Poplar (Germantown), 590-4304. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$ HEN HOUSE—Hybrid wine/cocktail bar and tasting room with plenty of cosmopolitan eats. 679 S. Mendenhall, 499-5436. D, SB, $-$$$ HIGH POINT PIZZA—Serves a variety of pizzas, subs, salads, and sides. Closed Mon. A neighborhood fixture. 477 High Point Terrace, 452-3339. L, D, $-$$ HOG & HOMINY—The casual sister to Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen serves brick-oven-baked pizzas, including the Red-Eye with pork belly, and small plates with everything from meatballs to beef and cheddar hot dogs; and local veggies. Closed for lunch Mon. 707 W. Brookhaven Circle, 207-7396. L, D, SB, MRA. $-$$$ 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, 458-9264; 5689 Quince, 800-2873. L, D, $ LIBRO AT LAURELWOOD—Bookstore eatery features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and homemade pasta dishes, with Italian-inspired options such as carbonara and potato gnocchi. Closed for dinner Sun. 387 Perkins Ext. (inside Novel), 800-2656. B, L, D, SB, $-$$ THE LIQUOR STORE—All-day breakfast, sandwiches, and entrees such as Salisbury steak and smothered pork chops. 669 S. Mendenhall, B, L, D, $-$$ LITTLE ITALY EAST—New York-style pizzas galore and homemade pasta. Closed Sun. 6300 Poplar, Suite 113. 729-7432. L, $-$$ MAGNOLIA & MAY—Southern-inspired, family-owned, casual dining restaurant serving up a variety of sandwiches, chef-inspired dishes, and craft cocktails. Popular items include shrimp and grits and the double cheeseburger. Closed Mon. 718 Mt. Moriah, 676-8100. L, D, WB, MRA. $$-$$$ MANDE DIBI WEST AFRICAN BBQ GRILL—Pairs traditional West African BBQ with Memphis BBQ for a menu that offers a wide variety of flavors, including daily specials and vegan-friendly options. 6825 Winchester, 672-8995. L, D, $-$$$ 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 Circle, 682-1660. D, $-$$ MAYURI INDIAN CUISINE—Serves tandoori chicken, masala dosa, tikka masala, as well as lamb and shrimp entrees; also a daily lunch buffet, and dinner buffet on Fri.-Sat. 6524 Quince, 753-8755. L, D, $-$$ 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, 683-8889. L, D, MRA, $ MULAN ASIAN BISTRO—Pan-Asian fare includes sushi and Sichuan dishes. 4598 Spottwood, 347-3965. L, D, $-$$ NAM KING—Offers luncheon and dinner buffets, dim sum, and such specialties as fried dumplings, pepper steak, and orange chicken. 4594 Yale, 373-4411. L, D, $ NAPA CAFE—Among the specialties are miso-marinated salmon over black rice with garlic spinach and shiitake mushrooms. Closed Sun. 5101 Sanderlin, Suite 122, 683-0441. D, MRA, $$-$$$ ONE & ONLY BBQ—On the menu are pork barbecue sandwiches, platters, wet and dry ribs, smoked chicken and turkey platters, a smoked meat salad, barbecue quesadillas, Brunswick Stew, and Millie’s homemade desserts. 1779 Kirby Pkwy., 751-3615; 567 Perkins Extd., 249-4227. L, D, $ ONO POKÉ—This eatery specializes in poké — a Hawaiian dish of fresh fish salad served over rice. Menu includes a variety of poké bowls, like the Kimchi Tuna bowl, or customers can build their own by choosing a base, protein, veggies, and toppings. 3145 Poplar, 618-2955. L, D, $ OWEN BRENNAN’S—New Orleans-style menu of beef, chicken, pasta, and seafood; jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and crawfish etouffee are specialties. Closed for dinner Sun. The Regalia, 6150 Poplar, 761-0990. L, D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ 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, $-$$$ PF CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO—Specialties are orange peel shrimp, Mongolian beef, and chicken in lettuce wraps; also vegetarian dishes, including spicy eggplant. 1181 Ridgeway, Park Place Mall, 818-3889. L, D, $-$$ 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, $ POP SPOT BAR & GRILLE—Burgers, empanadas, quesadillas, and creole-inspired cuisine, with hand-crafted cocktails. 715 West Brookhaven Circle, 830-5431. L, D, $-$$ PYRO’S FIRE-FRESH PIZZA—Serving gourmet pizzas cooked in an open-fire oven, wide choice of toppings, and large local and craft beer selection. 1199 Ridgeway, 379-8294; 2035 Union, 208-8857; 2286 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 207-1198; 3592 S. Houston Levee (Collierville), 221-8109. L, D, MRA, $ RED HOOK CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Cajun-style array of seafood including shrimp, mussels, clams, crawfish, and oysters. 3295 Poplar, 207-1960. L, D, $-$$ RED KOI—Classic Japanese cuisine offered at this family-run restaurant; hibachi steaks, sushi, seafood, chicken, and vegetables. 5847 Poplar, 767-3456. L, D, $-$$ RED PIER CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Owners of Red Hook bring more Cajun-style seafood dishes. 5901 Poplar, 512-5923. L, D, $-$$$ 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, 6839305. L, D, $$$ RONNIE GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT—This Memphis institution serves family classics such as Elfo’s Special and handmade ravioli, along with house-made pizza and fresh oysters. Closed Sun. 6150 Poplar, Suite 122, 850-0191. D, $-$$$ 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, (Southaven). B, L, WB, $ SWANKY’S TACO SHOP—Taco-centric eatery offers tortas, flatbreads, quesadillas, chimichangas, burgers, and more. 4770 Poplar, 730-0763; 6641 Poplar (Germantown), 737-2088; 272 S. Main. 779-3499. L, D, $ THREE LITTLE PIGS—Pork-shoulder-style barbecue with tangy mild or hot sauce, freshly made coleslaw, and baked beans. 5145 Quince, 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, Suite 1 (Cordova), 756-4480; 2821 N. Houston Levee, (Lakeland), 377-9997. L, D, $-$$
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TOPS BAR-B-Q—Specializes in pork barbecue sandwiches and sandwich plates with beans and slaw; also serves ribs, beef brisket, and burgers. 1286 Union.,725-7527; 4183 Summer, 324-4325; 5391 Winchester.,794-7936; 3970 Rhodes, 323-9865; 6130 Macon, 371-0580. For more locations, go online. L, D, $ TORCHY’S TACOS—Plenty of Tex-Mex variety, with creative monthly special tacos. 719 S. Mendenhall, 343-8880. B, L, D, $ VENICE KITCHEN—Specializes in “eclectic Italian” and Southern Creole, from pastas, including the “Godfather,” to hand-tossed pizzas, including the “John Wayne”; choose from 50 toppings. 368 Perkins Ext., 767-6872. L, D, SB, $-$$ 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, 509-2405; 875 W. Poplar, Suite 6 (Collierville), 221-7488; 8253 Highway 51 North, Suite 103 (Millington), 8720849; 4130 Elvis Presley (Whitehaven), 791-4726; 5224 Airline, 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, 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 Pkwy., 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, $ MINGXIA DUMPLING—Specializing in Chinese cuisine and street food, with handmade dishes: dumplings, soup, fried rice, meats, and vegetables. 1014 N. Germantown Pkwy., 961-6999. L, D, $-$$. Closed Tues. POKÉ WORLD—Serves up Hawaiian poké bowls filled with rice and diced, raw fish. Also offers Taiwanese bubble tea and rolled ice cream for dessert. 1605 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 111, 623-7986. East Memphis: 575 Erin, 779-4971. L, D, $ PETALS OF A PEONY—Authentic Sichuan cuisine, from crispy duck to peony fried chicken. Be prepared for spice! 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy., 787-8886. L, D, $-$$ 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., 753-3894. L, D, MRA, $$$ GERMANTOWN BLUE HONEY BISTRO—Entrees at this upscale eatery include brown butter scallops served with Mississippi blue rice and herb-crusted beef tenderloin with vegetables and truffle butter. Closed Sun. 9155 Poplar, Suite 17, 552-3041. D, $-$$$
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CITY DINING
FIRST WATCH—Fresh, made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch creations. 7810 Poplar, 665-5590. B, WB, L, $-$$ GERMANTOWN COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches; Mon.-night all-you-can-eat ribs. 2290 S. Germantown Rd., 754-5540. L, D, MRA, $-$$ JOSEPHINE ESTELLE—Neighborhood Italian-American restaurant with a seasonal Southern-inspired menu. 6695 Poplar Avenue, 334-3483. L, D, $-$$$ LAS TORTUGAS DELI MEXICANA—Authentic Mexican food prepared from local food sources; specializes in tortugas — grilled bread scooped out to hold such powerfully popular fillings as brisket, pork, and shrimp; also tingas, tostados. Closed Sun. 1215 S. Germantown Rd., 751-1200; 6300 Poplar. 623-3882. L, D, $-$$ 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, $-$$$ LOCAL LIME—Tacos and margaritas in a casual environment, plus other goodies like the Mexican caramel apple crisp skillet. Closed Mon. 7605 W. Farmington, Suite 1, 224-2204. L, D, $-$$$ 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, $-$$ MOONDANCE GRILL—From the owners of Itta Bena and Lafayette’s. Serves steak cooked sous vide and seafood dishes including Abita-barbecued shrimp and pan-seared sand dab, in addition to an extensive wine and cocktail list. 1730 S. Germantown Road, Suite 117, 755-1471. L, D, $$-$$$ MR. P’S WINGS—Casual eatery featuring hot wings, burgers, fried fish, and other American food. 2075 Exeter, Suite 35, 587-6777. L, D, $$ NOODLES ASIAN BISTRO—Serves a variety of traditional Asian cuisine, with emphasis on noodle dishes, such as Singapore Street Noodles and Hong Kong Chow Fun. 7850 Poplar, Suite 12, 755-1117. L, D, $ RIO LOBO CANTINA—Mexican and Latin-American cuisine. 3165 Forest Hill Irene Rd., 310-3432. L,D, $-$$ ROCK’N DOUGH PIZZA CO.—Specialty and custom pizzas made from fresh ingredients; wide variety of toppings. 7850 Poplar, Suite 6, 779-2008. L, D, SB, MRA, $$ ROYAL PANDA—Hunan fish, Peking duck, Royal Panda chicken and shrimp, and a seafood combo are among the specialties. 3120 Village Shops, 756-9697. L, D, $-$$ SAKURA—Sushi, tempura, and teriyaki are Japanese specialties here. 2060 West, 758-8181; 4840 Poplar (Memphis), 572-1002; 255 New Byhalia (Collierville), 316-5638. L, D, $-$$ 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, $-$$$ STONEY RIVER STEAKHOUSE AND GRILL—Specializes in handcut steaks, a fresh seafood selection, and plenty of house specials. 7515 Poplar, Suite 101, 207-1100. L, D, $$-$$$$ SUFI’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & BAR—Offers authentic Mediterranean and Persian cuisine, from hummus shawarma to traditional moussaka. Closed Mon. 7609 Poplar Pike, 779-2200. L, D, $-$$$ TAZIKI’S—Mediterranean-inspired dishes all made from scratch. 7850 Poplar, Suite 26, 612-2713; 540 S. Mendenhall Rd. (Memphis), 290-1091; 7974 U.S. 64 (Bartlett), 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, Suite 11. B, L, $-$$ UNCLE GOYO’S—More than 30 dishes with a focus on authentic Mexican cuisine, from the brains behind TacoNganas. 1730 S. Germantown Rd., 310-4855. L, D, $-$$ WEST STREET DINER—This home-style eatery offers breakfast, burgers, po’boys, and more. 2076 West, 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, $-$$$ COLLIERVILLE BELLY ACRES—Upscale burger restaurant, featuring creative combos such as the Cowboy (fried onion strings, pickled jalapeños, and BBQ saucer, or the Hot Pow with pepper jack and spinach. 3660 S. Houston Levee, 209-0168; 6130 Poplar (Memphis), 707-7638. L, D, $-$$ CAFE PIAZZA BY PAT LUCCHESI—Specializes in gourmet pizzas (including create-your-own), panini sandwiches, and pasta. Closed Sun. 139 S. Rowlett, 861-1999. L, D, $-$$
CIAO BABY—Specializing in Neapolitan-style pizza made in a woodfired oven. Also serves house-made mozzarella, pasta, appetizers, and salads. 890 W. Poplar, Suite 1, 457-7457. L, D, $ COLLIERVILLE COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches. 3573 S. Houston Levee, 979-5540. L, D, MRA, $-$$ DAVID GRISANTI’S ON MAIN—Serving Northern Italian cuisine and traditional Grisanti family recipes. Closed Sun./Mon. 148 N. Main, 861-1777. L, D, $-$$$ DYER’S CAFE—Juicy hamburgers, split dogs, and milkshakes at the historic Collierville restaurant. 101 N. Center, 850-7750. L, D, $-$$ EL MEZCAL—Serves burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, and other Mexican cuisine, as well as shrimp dinners and steak. 9947 Wolf River Pkwy., 853-7922; 402 Perkins Extd., 761-7710; 694 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 755-1447; 1492 Union, 274-4264; 11615 Airline (Arlington), 867-1883; 9045 Highway 64 (Lakeland), 383-4219; 7164 Hacks Cross, CASINO TABLES CHICAGO STEAKHOUSE AT THE GOLDSTRIKE—1010 Casino Center, Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-24KSTAY / 662-357-1225 FAIRBANKS AT THE HOLLYWOOD—1150 Casino Strip, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-871-0711 IGNITE STEAKHOUSE AT SOUTHLAND CASINO HOTEL—1550 N. Ingram, West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182 JACK BINION’S STEAK HOUSE AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE LUCKY 8 ASIAN BISTRO AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE SOUTHLAND CASINO HOTEL’S THE KITCHENS—1550 N. Ingram, West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182 THE STEAKHOUSE AT THE FITZ—711 Lucky Lane, Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-766-LUCK, Ext. 8213 TWAIN’S STEAKHOUSE AT SAM’S TOWN TUNICA—1477 Casino Strip Resorts, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-456-0711
(Olive Branch). 662-890-3337; 8834 Highway 51 N. (Millington), 8723220; 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), 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, $-$$$ MAEVE’S TAVERN—An Irish-themed eatery with elevated tavern classics, from signature burgers to hearty entrees featuring locally sourced ingredients. 78 N. Main on the Town Square, 403-5100. L, D, SB, $-$$$ MAROON BREW CO.—Family-friendly restaurant serving up gourmet hot dogs, smash burgers, chicken, and shareables, all made to pair with beers brewed on-site. Closed Mon. 642 W. Poplar, 799-0354. L, D, $-$$ MULAN ASIAN BISTRO—Hunan Chicken, tofu dishes, and orange beef served here; sushi and Thai food, too. 2059 Houston Levee, 8505288; 2149 Young, 347-3965; 4698 Spottswood, 609-8680. L, D, $-$$ NASHOBA—Offers live music, sports games, and pub classics. Specialties are hot honey flatbread pizza, brisket fried rice, and the Nashoba burger. 4600 Merchants Park Circle, Suite 111, 630-4683. L, D, $-$$ OSAKA JAPANESE CUISINE—Featuring an extensive sushi menu as well as traditional Japanese and hibachi dining. Hours vary for lunch; call. 3670 Houston Levee, 861-4309; 3402 Poplar (Memphis), 249-4690; 7164 Hacks Cross (Olive Branch), 662-890-9312; 2200 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 425-4901. L, D, $-$$$ 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, $-$$
STIX—Hibachi steakhouse with Asian cuisine features steak, chicken, and a fillet and lobster combination, also sushi. A specialty is Dynamite Chicken with fried rice. 4680 Merchants Park Circle, Avenue Carriage Crossing; 854-3399; 150 Peabody Place, Suite 115 (Downtown Memphis), 207-7638 L, D, $-$$ 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, Suite 101, 316-5590; 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 165, 791-4389. L, D, $-$$ ZOPITA’S ON THE SQUARE—Cafe offers sandwiches, including smoked salmon and pork tenderloin, as well as salads and desserts. Closed Sun. 114 N. Main, 457-7526. L, D, $ ARLINGTON / LAKELAND BRENDALAY GRILLE—Wide variety of steaks, flatbreads, pasta, soups, sandwiches. Favorites: Brendalay BBQ Shrimp and Cajun Rosemary Shrimp. 6259 Quintard (Arlington), 317-6998. L, D, SB, $$$$ KITCHEN TABLE—“Crafted comfort food that makes you feel right at home.” Steaks, seafood, catfish, chicken, chops, soups, salad, even hand-spun cotton candy. 12062 Forrest (Arlington), 317-6402. L,D, SB. $-$$ VILLA CASTRIOTI—From traditional family dishes and pasta concoctions to hand-tossed brick-oven NY pizza. 9861 W. Lake District Dr., (Lakeland), 466-8288. 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, (Como, MS). 662-526-9529. D, $-$$$ ELFO GRISANTI’S NORTHERN ITALIAN CUISINE—Grisanti family classics like lasagna, homemade ravioli, garlic bread, and Northern Italian pizza. Closed Sun. 5627 Getwell (Southaven, MS), 662-4704497. L, D, $-$$ 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 (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, $-$$$ TEKILA MODERN MEXICAN—Modern interpretations of classic dishes from all over Mexico. 6343 Getwell, (Southaven, MS), 662-510-5734. B, L, D, $-$$ WALK-ON’S SPORTS BISTREAUX. Cajun classics: fried alligator, pepperjack boudin, shrimp, gumbo, along with unique specialties. 2715 Snowden Lane (Southaven, MS), 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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INTERVIEW WITH A GHOST THE ORPHEUM’S RESIDENT SPIRIT SPEAKS TO THE MEDIA IN AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW. BY JON W. SPARKS
I
T IS ALLEGED
that the Orpheum is inhabited by a ghost. The story goes — although there are several unverifiable versions of the tale — that a 12-year-old known as Mary died in the early 1920s near the Orpheum. Her spirit, it’s said, wandered over to the grand theater and found the bright lights and behind-the-stage antics irresistible. She’s been there ever since, allowing fleeting glimpses of herself to performers, staff, and playgoers. ¶ We determined that Memphis Magazine needed to investigate and was able to get an exclusive interview with Mary thanks to some of our slipperier contacts in the paranormal world. She agreed to meet and chat as long as she could sit in seat C-5 in the theater, long assumed to be her favorite location. ¶ I will caution the reader that Mary is both 12 and 117 years old, and has hung around for decades with actors and musicians. She may once have been normal. If so, she’s changed.
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M E M P H I S M AG A Z I N E : Thank you for agreeing to speak with us. First of all, can you confirm your name? M A R Y: Who cares? Nobody called me much of anything for 50 years excepting maybe Eurydice. Back in the 1970s, a gaggle of hippies from Memphis State calling themselves paranormal investigators came by with a Ouija board. They decided that my name was Mary after staring at that silly piece of cardboard and the plastic doodad they moved around on it. M M : Others have tested for unexplained activity, but the evidence gets corrupted or disappears. There are reliable witnesses, though. You know Brett Batterson, the president and CEO of the Orpheum, who told me he and his wife were alone in the Broadway Club and ... M A R Y: I remember! I opened and then slammed shut the outside door. The looks on their faces! Priceless! I also had fun when he was being interviewed for TV and I made some weird lights dance around him. It never gets old. M M : How did you get here? The story goes that you died on Main Street in 1921. M A R Y: You make it sound like I was a dumb bale of cotton that fell off a wagon. And now you’re going to ask whether I got run over by a trolley, chopped up by an ax murderer, or burned up in the 1923 fire. You’d think all those hotshot reporters would have found something in the last hundred years. That’s just a buncha applesauce. M M : So what happened? M A R Y: You want to know who died at the Orpheum? I’ve got a list of comedians who bombed spectacularly. M M : OK, never mind. Let’s talk about your challenges. I heard you used to mess with the lights on the marquee outside. But now it’s all electronic signage. M A R Y: Such a pain! But now I know all about cloud-based management software and how to hack multimedia. I love messing with IT nerds! Look closely for some fun surprises. M M : What’s involved in haunting the theater? M A R Y: Actually I dislike the term haunting. I mean, I live here! But if I’m bored by a performance, I’ll slam some doors at inconvenient moments. Some people think they sense me nearby and they get a cold blast. I think that’s hooey, but ... oh, gosh, you feeling a chill? M M : Never mind that. Do you ever try to communicate with people other than magazine interviewers? M A R Y: I had a lot of fun with Vincent Astor. He played the organ and basically ran the place even though these other bigwigs sit in
those offices and hang out with the swells and donors. Vinnie and I never talked, but he was a good egg. He got me. He said nice things that were mostly right, and he had manners. M M : And he perpetuated your legend. I see you favor a middy blouse, black stockings, and pigtails. M A R Y: Braids. Pigtails are for six-year-olds and farm animals. Vinnie always got it right. M M : You prefer seat C-5. What’s with that? M A R Y: Why, do you think it’s a secret portal to the underworld? It’s got great line of sight for a ghost! But it bugs me that the box office keeps selling this seat. It’s mine! A few years ago, Charlie Vergos bought it, but I don’t care. The replacement is much more comfortable.
M M : What if someone is sitting in your seat and you want to see the performance? M A R Y: I try to get them to scram. Play with a dame’s hair, pull on a guy’s toupee, whisper in their ear. But look, I just want to say that theatergoers these days don’t know how to act. Sometimes that’s true of the performers, but mostly the paying customers. I loved the vaudeville days when the crowd had real energy. Nowadays, people just sit through a performance and then jump up like jack-in-the-boxes at the end for a standing ovation, no matter how good or bad. And for goodness sake, dress up a little, willya? It’s an evening at theater! M M : Do you ever get lonely? M A R Y: Oh, no. Just ask the other six ghosties. They’re standing over there. You probably won’t see ’em but you’ll feel ’em. M M : I looked that way, but when I turned back to Mary, she had vanished. And my audio recording had become corrupted.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY “MARY ”
9/16/26 11:52 AM
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