Memphis Magazine - September 2021

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Memphis • THE CITY MAGAZINE • W W W.MEMPHISMAGAZINE.COM

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V O L X LV I N O 5 | SE PT E M B E R 2021

UP FRONT 10 12 14

I N T H E B E G I N N I N G ~ by a n n a t r av e r s e f o g l e P A G E S ~ by j e s s e dav i s C L A S S I C D I N I N G ~ by michael donahue

FEATURES 16 Down in Oxford Town

There’s nothing like football season at Ole Miss. ~

b y c h r i s m c c oy

24 John’s Story COVER PHOTOGRAPH (AND FOOD) BY JUSTIN FOX BURKS AND AMY LAWRENCE

A doctor/patient look at sleep disorders, suicide, failure, and recovery. ~ by john br anston and merrill wise, m.d.

29 Remodel Memphis

Your 2021 guide to renovation and modernization. ~

37

by samuel x. cicci

901 HEALTH

Creating a Recipe for Heart Health

Simply modifying how we nourish ourselves can be the first step toward well-being. ~ by a m y l aw r e n c e a n d j u s t i n f ox b u r ks

43

LOCAL TREASURES

Medals and Moments

Wanda Martin has found her stride as a competitive runner, among other fitness endeavors. ~ b y f r a n k m u r ta u g h

68

37

ASK VANCE

The Jefferson Theatre

Our history expert solves local mysteries of who, what, when, where, why, and why not. ~ by va n c e l au d e r da l e

70

TIDBITS

Plant Based Heat

Longtime radio personality Ralph Johnson gives familiar flavors a vegan twist. ~ by s a m u e l x . c i c c i

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CITY DINING

80

LAST STAND

The city’s most extensive dining listings.

Be It Resolved (Again)

Some variants on what seemed like good ideas at the time. ~

16 Memphis (ISSN 1622-820x) is published monthly for $18 per year by Contemporary Media, Inc., 65 Union Avenue, 2nd Floor, Memphis, TN 38103 © 2021. Telephone: 901-521-9000.

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8/16/21 4:34 PM

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I N

T H E

B E G I N N I N G | BY ANNA TR AVERSE FOGLE

Listen to Your Mother-in-Law

T

he last embers of this morning’s sunrise were still burning when I left home on a mission. For the past couple of days, my husband, Cameron, has been feeling a little lousy. Nothing dramatic, just some muscle aches, exhaustion, the feeling of feverishness without any measurable fever. We’re both fully vaccinated, as is Cameron’s 13-year-old son, and the whole family are diligent mask-wearers when in public. Could it be a breakthrough case, though? We wondered.

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ventilator because of it, though.

Our goal, individually and collectively, needs to be risk reduction, not risk elimination. Being mortal means we can’t live riskfree; we’re simultaneously strong and frail creatures. Just like we wear our seatbelts and take our vitamins, the tools available to us won’t render us invincible. What they will do is put us in a position to overcome whatever it is that external circumstances throw our way.

My household may be Covid-free, for now, but my family isn’t. Cameron’s sweet mother, Nan, who lives in New York City, is finishing up a quarantine after testing positive earlier in August. My mother-in-law, thankfully, was fully vaccinated as soon as she could be, and has continued to be cautious, but contracted Covid anyway.

After her experience this past week, she’s an even stronger advocate for vaccination, which is saying something. Sure, she will be glad to get out of the apartment where she’s been cooped up, glad to walk the reservoir and sit in Central Park and heck, even glad to go to Trader Joe’s, she told me. But other than being bored and claustrophobic, she’s fine, and that’s remarkable.

“Pre-vaccination,” she said, “I was certain that I was toast if I got Covid because of my crummy respiratory system. Now, testing positive, I am essentially asymptomatic and feel perfectly fine. I need to do a PSA for the vaccine!”

Listen to Nan’s PSA, folks. Now’s the time.

I, for one, would sleep a whole lot better knowing that a few more of us were following her example.

But just in case, I bought a couple extra home test kits. For next time.

Our goal, individually and collectively, needs to be risk reduction, not risk elimination.

Being mortal means we can’t live risk-free; we’re simultaneously strong and frail creatures.

PHOTOGRAPH BY UNSPLASH

A HOUSE-SOLD NAME IN MEMPHIS!

True, he and I both are existing in a permanent-seeming state of exhaustion, and added on an especially grueling day earlier this week: those factors would be enough to leave anybody dragging. But — what if this were a breakthrough case? And so, before the day began, when the sky was still half-molten, I went out in search of an at-home Covid-19 test. Reader, I did not know what I was in for: Evidently the entire city of Memphis has been buying at-home Covid-19 tests, because I stopped at five different drugstores before finding a single test kit for sale.

The test was negative. As of this writing, my household is free of Covid-19. My husband swabbed his nose, we inserted the swab into a little cardboard doohickey along with precisely six drops of solution, waited 15 minutes, and there it was: a single deep-pink line, indicating no presence of the virus. Like so many of us, Cameron needs less stress, plus more and better sleep.

(For more on the topic of sleep, see John Branston and Dr. Merrill Wise’s remarkable account, starting on p. 24.) External circumstances are not entirely favorable when it comes to stress reduction and sleep improvement, not these days of ratcheting-up case counts and bleaker reports from front-line workers than we’ve heard in almost a year. Our collective anxiety levels are rising as we mutter under our breaths: Not this again. I never stopped wearing a mask in public settings like grocery stores, but now I’m masking up once more even around colleagues whom I know to be vaccinated. I also know that one of us could still contract Covid, despite being cautious, despite being vaccinated.

We’re markedly less likely to wind up on a

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8/13/21 6:07 PM

PAG E S

Notes from Flyover Country Rhodes professor Caki Wilkinson’s The Survival Expo explores hope, fortune, and family.

BY JESSE DAVIS

“We’re all left wondering what we deserve, which twist of luck or penance makes the difference. Some days I’ve had enough of what the universe is serving. Some days it’s ribs.”

— C a k i Wi l k i n s o n , “ Ho p e B r i n g s B a ck H a lf a R a ck of R i bs”

M

emphis-based poet Caki Wilkinson recently released her third poetry collection, The Survival Expo (Persea Books). The slim volume, between its robin’s egg blue and orange cover, contains pure magic. How else to describe an object that can instantly transport a reader somewhere else — the back row of seats in a high school classroom, the line at the gates of Graceland, or the curb outside the Royal Valet? The Survival Expo is a passport to another place, yes, but even more so, to another state of mind. The tension of a particularly fraught family gathering, a supermarket in Tennessee, Turtletown, a scuffed counter with its sign: WE WASH AND PRESS AMERICAN FLAGS FOR FREE!

Caki Wilkinson

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Wilkinson’s poems read like the most magnificent or cutting note to have ever been passed in a high school study hall, which isn’t to say that they’re elementary. Rather, they’re relatable, accessible, even as they also hint at worlds and dreams beyond themselves.

HERE, THERE, AND EVERYWHERE

W

ilkinson’s new collection feels like Tennessee — it encompasses the rural and the urban, the New Weird South and the magnolias and diners and faded flags of the Old. The poet positions herself on the border between these two worlds, issuing off-kilter commentary on both.

That perspective from the border is well earned.

Wilkinson has lived in each of Tennessee’s three major sections, in both rural and urban settings.

“I’m a Tennessean,” she explains. “I was born in Murfreesboro, I lived for several years in Knoxville, and then my family moved to Sewanee over in Middle Tennessee.” After high school, she moved to Memphis to attend Rhodes College, where she returned as an English professor and creative writing director in 2012. “I’ve logged a whole bunch of years in Memphis at this point. I realized recently that I’ve lived in Memphis more total years than I’ve lived anywhere else in Tennessee. I really feel like a Memphian now.”

Wilkinson’s interest in poetry dates to before her time as a Memphian. “I trace it back to kids’ poetry.

I liked the way that poetry stuck in my brain. I liked the wordplay,” she remembers, citing Dr. Seuss, Shel Silverstein, and other “rhymey poetry” as her entrée into the world of verse and meter. But, as children do, she drifted away from poetry for a time. Until, that is, her interest was renewed in high school.

“I think this is true for so many writers — I had a really good freshman year English teacher,” Wilkinson muses. He showed her classics like Walt Whitman alongside twentieth-century poets such as the Beats, expanding her knowledge of the form beyond the “rhymey” poetry she so adored in childhood. So, for a time, she split her attention between poetry and basketball, her other passion.

“It was pretty much the center of my extracurricular life,” she says of the sport. Wilkinson played basketball through high school and was even recruited to play for Rhodes, though she withdrew from the team before the first season began. “I started trying to figure out who I was and what I wanted to be besides basketball.”

When the time to make that choice came, poetry was already there waiting in the wings.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY PERSEA BOOKS

8/16/21 3:53 PM

CIRCLES, WYNONA STONE, AND THE ROAD TO THE EXPO

A

fter graduating from Rhodes College, Wilkinson earned an MFA from Johns Hopkins University and a Ph.D. from the University of Cincinnati. She published her first collection, Circles Where the Head Should Be, in 2011. Her work has also been featured in the Atlantic Monthly, The New Yorker, and elsewhere. But it’s her sophomore collection, The Wynona Stone Poems (Persea Books, 2015), that helps pave the path to The Survival Expo.

Wilkinson says some critics have called The Wynona Stone Poems a “novel in verse.” But, as she says, “There’s not really a plot other than the passing of time.” The aptly named collection follows the character Wynona Stone through various stages of her life, creating that illusion of plot. She continues: “I have always really loved poems that make use of fictional elements — that have plot, or that have characters — and that’s not completely in step with what’s happening in the larger poetic landscape right now.”

So, when it was time to again consider putting together a new collection, in true artist fashion, Wilkinson wanted to move in a new direction and explore other modes of storytelling. Wynona Stone was character-driven, so she wanted her next effort to be more of a traditional collection, a “mixed bag.” That’s how she got to The Survival Expo.

The collection brims with such examples of tension between closely tied objects, like celestial bodies in orbit, conjuring up tides in each other. Familial ties, cousins in particular, are a recurring motif. Our understanding of the present, and thus our visions of the future, may be irreconcilably different from those of our family, despite a shared past.

“I wasn’t really sure what kept drawing me back,” Wilkinson says of her Hope character, the fictional cousin of The Survival Expo’s speaker. Though Wilkinson had set out to write a different kind of poem — short, musical — she found herself writing more narrative, voice-driven poems about Hope, a character familiar with risk, with the wrong side of the tracks. “It had to do with this particular kind of familial relationship, in this case these two cousins that were close when they were growing up and then there’s this kind of divergent life path,” Wilkinson explains. “I know personally that that is something I’ve thought about a lot. Where do you start to split from your extended family?”

The issue, Wilkinson muses, is also one of privilege and the opportunities opened up by it. “My parents were the only people from both of their families to go to college,” she says, “and because of that I had a head start on a lot of things.”

“So I found myself thinking, ‘Okay, what do you do when you’re afraid for the future? Do you look at oracles? Do you build a bunker?’”

MY POETIC MIXTAPE

I

always describe putting a collection together as it’s kind of like making a mixtape,” Wilkinson says after I ask her about the placement of “Local Woman Makes a Casserole” and “Mansplaining Oracle,” two seemingly complementary poems on facing pages. “The fact that they follow each other is absolutely deliberate,” she says. “That’s part of that mixtape stuff — thinking about how the poem that follows another can either subtly comment on a poem or magnify something that’s introduced. I definitely thought about those two as being kind of cousins.”

“Local Woman” and “Mansplaining Oracle” have similar subject matter, but one is cluttered with the bric-abrac of everyday life, while the other is a soothsayer’s spell. In The Survival Expo, Wilkinson oscillates between modes of viewing the future. There are signposts of the mundane world, names of small towns, newspaper headlines, and scraps of radio broadcasts. But there are also the series of “oracle” poems, delving into fortune telling and foresight. And of course, there’s Hope.

SURVIVING THE SURVIVAL EXPO

T

he collection’s titular poem recounts the time Wilkinson accompanied a colleague to a survival expo at the Agricenter. Her colleague was doing research for a project, so the two professors wandered among the displays of knives, MREs, and metal shelters. Wilkinson says the experience left her with a strange feeling as she pondered the drive that motivates the doomsday preppers in attendance at the expo.

“I found myself also thinking about the way that so much of that is driven by fear,” she says. “It’s an illogical manifestation of that fear. ‘Okay, I feel completely anxious about my place in the world, so my response is to build an underground bunker.’

“But I found myself understanding the impulse, if not the way that they acted on the impulse. So I found myself thinking, ‘Okay, what do you do when you’re afraid for the future? Do you look at oracles? Do you build a bunker?’

“What is the response for the uncertainty and angst of our moment?”

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8/16/21 3:53 PM

C L AS S I C

D I N I N G

Hot Fudge Pie at Westy’s

It took a lot of experimenting to come up with this best-selling Downtown dessert.

BY MICHAEL DONAHUE

T

he iconic Hot Fudge Pie at Westy’s is, in a word, delicious. More than just a dessert, this over-the-top plate is an experience. The chocolate confection is topped with French vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and a chocolate drizzle. It’s “fudge” because the pie is heated before the ice cream and toppings are piled high.

“I grew up eating chocolate icebox pie and brownies that my mother made,” says Westy’s owner Jake Schorr. “Homemade brownies. And they were great.”

He wanted an unusual dessert on the menu when he owned the old Jefferson Square back in the late ’70s. He thought, “Everybody has got a brownie. Why don’t I make something different and make it a key dessert? I had no idea what it was going to be. I started putting this together.”

He’d never owned a restaurant before Jefferson Square. “I wasn’t educated in cooking,” he says. “I was educated in making mistakes at this point.”

Schorr wanted to use French vanilla ice cream, reminiscent of the ice cream his uncle served him when Schorr was a child.

The “pie” was more complicated. Schorr baked chocolate brownie pies for months, trying to come up with the right one.

He needed to achieve har-

mony among the f lour, eggs, sugar, chocolate, and vanilla to complement the French vanilla ice cream.

Kris Snoke, a friend who later worked as a cook for Schorr, tried the evolving versions. “More or less, once a week she would come in and I’d have this version of the pie ready.”

Snoke would taste it and put in her two cents. “I was the taste tester,” Snoke says. Schorr “wanted hot fudge and it had to be fudgy and gooey in the middle.”

Schorr made his experimental brownies a few times a week, Snoke recalls. “Occasionally, I helped him and talked about different things he could add.

I could not tell you how many months it went on. At that time, I didn’t gain weight.”

Westy’s is at 346 North Main. note to self: Westy’s Hot Fudge Pie is best consumed indoors on 97 degree days.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL DONAHUE

Jake Schorr and Kris Snoke with the Hot Fudge Pie at Westy’s.

One night, Snoke tasted the latest dessert. “It melted in my mouth. And I said, ‘You hit it.’ Everything was just perfect. He got the combination of the fudge and the flour down perfectly — where the textures were just ideal.”

“The whole idea was to make something that wasn’t around,” says Schorr, “and to satisfy my yearning for vanilla ice cream and chocolate that other people would appreciate. Turned out we got it.”

Schorr gave samples to his Jefferson Square customers, who liked it. “I was very, very fortunate.

It’s one of those rare things in life that happen.”

The pie moved with him to Schorr’s new restaurant, The North End, after Jefferson Square burned to the ground during the early morning hours of the day after Halloween, 1983. When new owners bought the North End, Schorr kept the dessert with him at his new place, Westy’s.

As for his Hot Fudge Pie’s popularity, Schorr says, “We have a number of desserts, but from year to year it’s either the top-selling item or the second top-selling item.”

The price has increased over the years. It was $1.79 at Jefferson Square. Now, it sells for $6.39, “and getting ready to go up,” Schorr says. Most customers agree it’s worth every penny — and more.

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9/13/21 3:37 AM

R OA D

T R I P

DOWN IN OXFORD TOWN

There’s nothing like football season at Ole Miss.

BY CHRIS McCOY

O

n seven Saturdays this fall, the population of Oxford, Mississippi, will swell dramatically. Some 27,000 people call the town home year-round. The head count almost doubles six months out of the year when 23,000 students attend the University of Mississippi.

But on days when the Ole Miss Rebels football team play home games, up to 100,000 fans from all over the Southeast travel to this usually sleepy town. They’re there to root for the home team, party, and have a good meal or three.

top: Oxford’s historic town square left: Ole Miss legend Archie Manning 16 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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PHOTOGRAPH CREDITS: TOP BY JOE SOHM / DREAMSTIME; BOTTOM BY WOLTERK / DREAMSTIME

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Located about a 90-minute drive from Memphis, Oxford is the closest place to see Southeastern Conference football played on home turf. Ole Miss is Oxford’s reason for being — the town was named after the English university in 1838 in the hopes it would one day become the home of a college. Since then, the school has come to define the city, and sustain a hospitality culture that punches way above its weight.

The center of campus is the Lyceum, which dates from 1846. Named for the place where Aristotle once taught in Athens, the building’s facade of Ionic columns has long been the symbol of the school. It served as a Confederate hospital during the Civil War, and

during the Civil Rights movement, it was at the center of the white supremacist riots that followed the integration of the school by James Meredith in 1962. A bullet hole is still visible in the facade from that time, and a statue of Meredith now stands nearby. Nowadays, the campus is renowned for its good looks; Ole Miss makes regular appearances on lists of the most beautiful campuses in America.

On football weekends, tens of thousands of fans converge on The Grove, ten acres of bucolic woods on the Ole Miss campus that’s been called the greatest tailgating spot in America. Starting at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays before game days, people rush in to claim their spots. A temporary tent city rises, complete

with streets named for famous players, such as Deuce McAllister, the Ole Miss running back who went on to lead the New Orleans Saints to Super Bowl victory in 2009. These days, most tents are provided by professional vendors, who are experts at quickly creating the ideal party environment.

The festivities start early. Even for night games, The Grove is usually hopping by 11 a.m. The bacchanalia climaxes with the Walk of Champions, when the football team parades through The Grove on their way to face their opponents in 64,000-seat Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. The tradition began in the early 1980s. Legend has it that coach Billy Brewer, who brought the team back to na-

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tional prominence after years of also-ran status, was fed up with his players’ rowdy behavior on the team bus, and made the driver drop them off at the Student Union building rather than driving up to the stadium entrance. The move didn’t work well as a punishment, but it worked wonders as a morale building exercise, when the team was greeted as heroes by revelers in The Grove.

Since then, the route has been formalized with an arch, donated by alums from the 1962 team, who remain the only Ole Miss football team to end the season with a perfect record.

BEYOND THE GROVE

xford comes alive on football weekends. Every Friday before football and basketball games, Visit Oxford runs tours of the town in a vintage double-decker bus. It’s a must for families of students and others who want to learn about the historic community.

The courthouse square is famous for its shopping, dining, and hotels. The Graduate, located at the corner of Lamar Blvd. and Jefferson Ave., is one of the newest hotels, dating from 2015. The rooftop bar, known as The Coop, is a popular gathering place which overlooks the Square.

The extremely competitive restaurant scene is epitomized by Ajax Diner. Named for owner Randy Yates’ grandfather, Ajax’s website claims more than 300 million butterbeans served over its 22-year history. That’s almost one butterbean for every man, woman, and child in America. The menu is classic meatand-two, which means a heaping helping of protein with two fresh veggie dishes of your choice. Chicken and dumplings, country-fried steak, Mississippi pot roast covered in gravy, and tamale pie are only a few grandma-good choices on offer.

TAILGATING IN THE

SEC

If you’re up for a longer drive

than Oxford, all the SEC schools have their own traditions of fan fun. For Memphians, here are five manageable SEC destinations.

PHOTO CREDITS: TOP IMAGES BY CHRIS MCCOY

O

clockwise from top: Chris McCoy says Square Books, an Oxford institution, is “exactly what you want in an independent bookstore,” with shelves floor to ceiling holding vintage first editions and the newest best-sellers. Also facing the historic

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA

The powerhouse Alabama Crimson Tide plays in one of the largest college stadiums in America, the 101,000-seat Bryant-Denny Stadium, named for legendary coach Bear Bryant and former University president George Denny. The tailgating spot to be is The Quad, the 22-acre centerpiece of the University of Alabama campus where the team played all their games before Denny Field was built in 1915. You can opt for help from a professional tailgating service, such as Gameday Done Right, or set out on your own to join the throngs in The Quad. Campus parking is impossible to come by on game day, so you’re better off leaving your car at the Downtown Tuscaloosa Intermodal Facility and taking the free bus shuttle to the game.

town square, the J.E. Neilson Company, a department store founded in 1839, is almost as old as the entire town. A new addition to the Oxford experience is The Graduate Hotel, which opened in 2015. A rooftop bar, known as The Coop, is a popular gathering place.

STARKVILLE, MISSISSIPPI

The Mississippi State Bulldogs play in Davis Wade Stadium, a 61,000-seat facility that dates back to 1914. On the south side of the stadium is The Junction, named for a railroad station that once served the campus, where fans gather to live it up on game day. Unusual for most college stadiums, the outdoor party palace is directly adjacent to the field; fans greet the team, coach, and band two hours before each game in a tradition called the Dawg Walk. Nearby Harveys steakhouse is a favorite dining destination for locals and visitors alike.

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PHOTO CREDITS: TOP LEFT BY CHRIS MCCOY; TOP RIGHT BY FRANK MURTAUGH; BOTTOM LEFT AND RIGHT COURTESY VISIT OXFORD

clockwise from top: Popular Oxford attractions include Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner’s famous Rowan Oak estate, the memorial to James Meredith, music at the Double Decker Arts Festival downtown, and Square Books.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

The state capital is home to Vanderbilt University’s Commodores, who play in a 40,000-seat on-campus stadium, the smallest in the SEC. The tailgating scene in Nashville is centered on Vandyville, located at the corner of Jess Neely Dr. and Natchez Trace. Since it’s the heart of a major city, there’s less room to spread out in Vandyville, so the nearby bars and restaurants, like the Whiskey Bent Saloon and the Corner Bar at Elliston Place, see plenty of action. For a little history with your drink, you can visit Springwater, which claims to be the oldest bar in Tennessee, and the immortal Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, where the country music stars of old slaked their thirst between sets at the Ryman Auditorium.

FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS

The University of Arkansas Razorbacks first played in Fayetteville in 1894. In 2018, the Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium was expanded to seat more than 76,000 hog-calling fans. Game day festivities take place all over Fayetteville.

The center of attention is The Gardens at the corner of Razorback Road and MLK Jr. Blvd., but it’s a much more laid-back scene than you find at other SEC schools. The Powerhouse Seafood & Grill is a popular spot near the campus for libations and dishes that range from crab cakes and escargot to fried alligator and shrimp.

KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE

The University of Tennessee’s flagship campus is home to the Volunteer football team, who play in 102,000-seat Neyland Stadium, the seventh largest in the world.

The city’s unique contribution to football fan culture is the Vol Navy. Neyland Stadium is located on the Tennessee River, and boaters crowd the waterway for “sailgating” before disembarking for the game at the Vol Navy Boat Docks. The tradition began in 1962, when radio broadcaster and boater George Mooney discovered that the aquatic route was the best way to avoid game-day gridlock. Nowadays, the Vol Navy even has its own flag. If you’re a landlubber, the Half Barrel on Cumberland Ave. is a favorite football hotspot.

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Visitors will discover unique shopping opportunities on the Square, such as Neilson’s, the homegrown department store that has been here since around the time the town was founded. Square Books is a two-story literary mecca founded by former Oxford mayor Richard Howorth. The original Square Books is exactly what you want in an independent bookstore — a twisty warren of shelves and alcoves where you can browse leisurely. And of course, there’s a coffee bar.

The original Square Books was founded in 1979, and in the years since it has branched off into a kids’ shop, Square Books, Jr., and

Rare Square Books, where expensive first editions and signed copies can be had by the discerning collector with some coin to drop.

Just off the Square on East Jackson Ave. is Saint Leo. Emily Blunt’s contemporary Italian restaurant is built around a huge, doublesided bar. Its cuisine is designed around a wood-fired pizza oven, with offerings that range from the familiar, like the Margherita pizza, to the exotic, like the bacon jam and Calabrian chili honey. The roasted mushroom pizza includes pecorino, an aged sheep’s milk cheese that adds a little zing. The craft cocktail menu is extensive and well considered. One of the more popular options is the Prosecco Pop, a glass of the fizzy drink served with an organic raspberry and mint popsicle.

The dining scene has outgrown the limited space of the Square. Just a little ways up Lamar is the Mid Town shopping center, home to several excellent eateries. The Snackbar’s main attraction is chef Vishwesh Bhatt, who won the 2019 James Beard award for Best Chef in the South. Bhatt — known to his co-workers as Vish — was born in India, but has been cooking in Oxford for two decades.

His dishes tend to fall across the spectrum of the subcontinent’s flavor profile, even when they have French or English roots. One of his

PHOTOGRAPH BY CHRIS MCCOY

Tandoor chicken sandwich at The Snackbar

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specialties is chaat, an Indian street food that originated in the northern province of Uttar Pradesh, which is traditionally a mixture of potato chunks, crispy fried bread, and chick peas, usually topped with a yogurt sauce.

All sorts of regional variations have arisen over the centuries. Chef Vish’s chaats are ever-changing, depending on what fresh ingredients are available.

If chaat is the only thing you eat at Snackbar, you will be suitably impressed.

But there’s so much more, such as Punjabi catfish bites coated in a thin, tempura-like batter with creamy chutney sauce. Fried catfish is a perennial Southern favorite, but

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the landlocked Punjab region of India loves the familiar fish as well, and Chef Vish knows how to make it sing. An incredible tandoori chicken sandwich also makes appearances on the ever-changing menu. There’s nothing like chicken slow-roasted in a traditional tandoor clay oven, and nestling it into a sandwich emphasizes the dish’s tender strengths.

Next door to Snackbar is its sister restaurant, Big Bad Breakfast, which is a production of chef John Currence, who started the modern Oxford food scene with City Grocery on the Square. Big Bad Breakfast has proved to be Currence’s most successful creation, expanding to locations throughout the South.

If you don’t mind a wait, you can load up for game day with a Breakfast Crumble, two poached eggs, crumbled house bacon, and biscuits over grits covered in tomato gravy.

Those offerings only scratch the surface of Oxford’s vibrant dining scene. If you’re planning on going down to catch a game, patience and planning are necessary. With so many people making the pilgrimage, waits can be long. It’s best to check online or call ahead to see if the restaurant you’re interested in takes reservations. But don’t fret. There’s no shortage of places to raise a glass and toast to victory!

PHOTOGRAPH BY CHRIS MCCOY

Breakfast Crumble at Big Bad Breakfast

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8/13/21 6:04 PM

JOHN’S STORY: A DOCTOR / PATIENT LOOK AT SLEEP DISORDERS, SUICIDE, FAILURE, AND RECOVERY

BY JOHN BRANSTON AND MERRILL WISE, M.D. 24 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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E di t o r’s Note:

J

ohn is John Br a nston, co-author of this piece and a patient of co-author Merrill Wise, who is a sleep medicine specialist. John is a retired journalist in Memphis and author of a book about his daughter’s suicide, What Katy Did. His sleep issues reflect grief and depression as well as common sleep ailments and remedies. He is co-authoring this story under his real name in hopes that it may help others.

This story grew out of a nearly five-year quest to find something as old as The Book of Genesis. Adam “went into a deep sleep.”

Many of the rest of us only wish we could.

A medical “case report” summarizes the details of an individual case. Healthcare professionals use it to illustrate diagnostic dilemmas or treatment challenges, and it is a time-honored approach to medical education. Case reports are usually presented in a standard format with medical jargon that can leave general readers scratching their heads.

The case report typically includes a few details about the patient’s life, but it almost never incorporates the patient’s experiences or perspective about his or her health or illness. Case studies often use only first names or initials to protect patient privacy.

“John’s Story” is a little different.

“The approach known as narrative medicine places the patient’s story at the center of the process and shifts the physician’s focus from the need to problem solve to the need to understand,” says Dr. Wise, a graduate of Rhodes College in Memphis and the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, with residency and fellowships at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.

This three-part article begins with excerpts of Dr. Wise’s medical history notes over 18 months, followed by John’s first-person reporting and Dr. Wise’s narrative in layman’s language. The goal is to give readers a picture of the patient and doctor as people, rather than entries in a case report.

TRADITIONAL MEDICAL HISTORY Patient is a 71-year-old gentleman who presented to sleep clinic for ongoing management of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome diagnosed at another sleep center two years earlier, and for evaluation of several other sleep issues. His initial diagnostic sleep study showed evidence of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (note: a common sleep disorder with recurrent upper airway obstruction). Treatment with nasal CPAP was recommended. (Note: continuous positive airway pressure or CPAP, is a small mask over the nose, or nose and mouth, connected to a machine that produces a flow of air to keep the airway open.) Patient struggled to achieve consistent usage due to air leak and other technical issues. He did not feel that he received adequate guidance or support as he tried to transition to CPAP. Patient’s wife describes episodes in which he appears to be acting out his dreams. These episodes occur at least several times per month.

The episodes are characterized by violent kicking and thrashing, and loud yelling in his sleep.

The movements and behaviors are consistent with his dream mentation. Fortunately, no injuries have occurred to the patient or his wife.

Past medical history: A transient ischemic attack (TIA) in 2015, hypertension, and idiopathic peripheral neuropathy in right leg.

Medications: For the past 3 years patient has taken zolpidem (Ambien) 10 mg at bedtime, which provided some limited improvement in sleep continuity and quality. After taking gabapentin for three years he switched to 60 mg duloxetine (Cymbalta) each morning for neuropathy–associated pain and depression.

He tried melatonin in doses of 10 mg and 15 mg but experienced “weird dreams” and continued “kicking dreams” during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.

Social History: Patient is a retired newspaper and magazine writer who lives with his wife in Memphis. They experienced a sudden and devastating life trauma due to the death of their adult daughter by suicide in 2016, and this had a strongly negative impact on his sleep and mood.

He drinks one serving of caffeinated beverage per day and he drinks alcohol approximately six times a week. He does not smoke. He plays squash and tennis.

Medical recommendations and clinical course: Therapeutic polysomnography (a sleep study with CPAP) was recommended. Patient was referred to a psychologist with expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to incorporate CBT principles and improved sleep hygiene into his nighttime routine, with the eventual goal of tapering off Ambien.

Results: Patient wears his CPAP 5-7 hours per night consistently and reports some mild improvement in his sleep quality. After several weeks of CBT he noted gradual improvement in his ability to fall asleep and return to sleep, although he continued to struggle at times with insomnia. He was successful in tapering off Ambien.

Follow-up and monitoring will focus on optimizing treatment of patient’s obstructive sleep apnea with CPAP, improving sleep continuity and quality using CBT and good sleep hygiene, controlling REM sleep behavior disorder symptoms, and minimizing risk of injury.

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The Patient’s Narr ative:

SLEEP SCHOOL

L

ooking back, I’m not sure if it was the article or the snoring and the kicking dreams that drove me to sleep school.

The article in The New York Times was by the healthy-living columnist, a young woman who emphasized that she was a journalist, not a medical specialist, before dispensing advice.

She was a clever writer and quoted people with degrees from famous medical schools that were not likely to be on the take.

The article said men over the age of 60 should get at least eight hours of sleep a night.

I was 66, got six hours on a good night and four hours on a bad one and had not slept for eight hours straight since I was in college. I got up to use the toilet at least twice a night no matter how much or little I ate or what over-the-counter sleep aids I took.

When I had decent control of my bladder and bowels, my snoring had gotten so bad that my wife started sleeping in our extra bedroom. The snore was not a gentle rustle either, but a honk followed by a whinny. And sometimes it heralded acting-out dreams with kicks and punches as I fought off alligators, unfenced dogs, and bullies.

“You fight like a girl,” my wife mocked, after being kicked in the shins a couple times.

Then I whacked her across the chest one night, nearly hitting her nose, and that was the end of sleeping together.

I felt ashamed of myself and sorry for her.

Not to mention the fact that I missed her warm, soft body next to me. The article said this was a common side effect of sleep deprivation.

After inhalers, dry-mouth gum, humidifiers, and a mouthpiece I got on Amazon for $40, I decided it was time to get serious. A close friend and my brother-in-law swore by their “sleep machines” — properly known as a CPAP or continuous positive airway pressure system that looked like a fighter pilot mask connected to the money-maker, a small device that produced air pressure and humidity and daily readouts.

I asked my wife if she would come back to bed. She looked at me skeptically. I took that as a no. I really missed sleeping together and

spooning with her. So I made an appointment with my primary doctor who signed off, another appointment with a nurse practitioner at a sleep school who listened with little interest to my medical history and gave me a bunch of forms to fill out, and a third appointment to come in and get wired up for a sleepover.

On a Saturday night a male technician in scrubs let me in and led me down a hall to the reception room. I was the only “guest” on this night. My room was half the size of a Motel 6 room and the same quality, with a shared bathroom across the hall, cheap headboard, bedside table with a dim lamp, a double bed six feet long — I am 6’2” — and an ugly bedspread. There was a coating of dust on the window shade. The television got only one channel, TCM, which was showing Gunfight at the O.K. Corral with Kirk Douglas. On the bedside table there was a bottle of water, but no sign of the “snack” promised on the website.

The tech told me to take off my shirt and pajama bottoms, then ducked out and reappeared shortly with a cart loaded with a small computer and several rolls of cables and cords and a tube of goop. He spoke with a flat affect and did not make eye contact.

“We’ll monitor your heart rate, breathing interruptions, and snoring as well as your eye movement, EEG, REM sleep, and chin EMG. The leads attach to your chest and legs and the top of your head. The ointment makes the contacts better, but it can be a little sticky.”

Bad news. I have a hairy chest and legs and some sprouts of grey on top of my head.

We tried to make small talk, but our hearts were not in it.

The tech’s eyes shifted to the floor where a large cockroach was making its way to the base of the sink. He crouched, gave it a light whack, and trapped it in a plastic mouthwash cup.

“So sorry about that. Not catch and release, but I want to show this to the building superintendent. This isn’t the first time. Remember, I am right down the hall. Checkout by the way is seven o’clock.”

I popped an Ambien 10 mg, as I had done every night for more than a year since my daughter died by suicide. The horror of thinking about her last hours was such that I could not have survived without it. I had no side

effects, and usually got four hours of sleep, then got up to pee, then got two or three more hours before getting up for breakfast.

The biggest problem was getting refills since Ambien is a controlled substance and I had to refill my ’scrip every 30 days in two different states where I had houses.

I had my doubts whether it would work at sleep school with all those wires and goo on me, but it did. When I dozed off, Kirk Douglas and the Earps were getting the best of the Clanton gang. I woke up five hours later in the middle of a cockroach dream when I heard the voice of the tech over the intercom.

“Are you all right? You were snoring loudly and talking in your sleep, or maybe not.”

“I’m fine. What time is it?”

“Five o’clock.”

“That works for me. Come on in and get me out of here.”

Disconnecting the electrodes, as promised, removed quite a bit of hair and left globs of goop on my chest and head but I did not care.

I was free and hungry and obsessed with pancakes.

After I got dressed the tech handed me some forms to fill out. A customer satisfaction survey, of course, asked “would you describe your experience as so and so.” When I got to the “how would you describe the cleanliness of the office” question and the technician question, I decided the best course was “somewhat unsatisfactory” which was below “met expectations” and “exceeded expectations.” This did not seem like the best time for score settling. On the doctor satisfaction question, though, I wanted to write in “HAVE NOT SEEN ONE, YOU PRICKS!” but settled for “does not apply” instead.

Half an hour later I was home eating blueberry pancakes.

The written report arrived in the mail a week later.

“Congratulations!” it opened, in the manner of a notice from Publishers Clearing House.

“You have completed the diagnostic portion of the study and have been scheduled for a second study to determine your CPAP titration and the proper pressure to treat your obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). After your second study we will order a CPAP machine from a Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

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company. If you have any questions, please call your doctor’s office at this number.”

Which is exactly what I did, to try to find out how much I was going to be charged for this little adventure. It took half an hour to get through the phone tree to a live person.

“Well, Medicare will cover everything but the cost of the room, which is $80 a night.”

“Yes, that’s fine, but what is the actual cost of, like, the whole deal?”

Ever the investigative reporter, and a cheapskate to boot.

“The total full cost of the fi rst night is $8,000 and the second night is $7,500. But the charge to you is only $80 a night because you have Medicare.”

I wrote it down, said thanks, and hung up, full of unspoken fury: a Medicare scam, bill 15 thousand, collect nine thousand, run the paperwork through the back office, get a sleep doctor to sign it. Bingo. All the professional attention of getting your drivers’ license renewed or opening a credit card account at Walmart. Half the country over the age of 65 probably has trouble sleeping and could be classified as being in need of a CPAP. Much as I wanted to dig deeper, there was still the matter of my snoring, which was getting so bad I woke myself up most nights, alone in the bed. So, two weeks later I went back to sleep school. This time the tech was all business. I got a quick demonstration of how to put on the mask covering my nose and mouth (for “mouth breathers”), attach the headgear to the six-foot hose, some gibberish about the computer readouts and adjustments, and a bedroom minus roaches.

To get the gear, I would have to make an appointment at another office near the airport.

The helpful staff answered my questions as I took notes, but it was a lot to digest and experience proved the best teacher. I chose not to enroll in the auto-resupply program, which meant I was on my own when it came time to get replacement masks, hoses. and filters. This was a hassle, but an instructive one. A filter the size of a postage stamp, for example, can cost five bucks; a soft plastic cushion for the face mask is $14 on Amazon, and anywhere from $30 to $80 from a certified provider — unless you have met your Medicare deductible.

After a couple of years of this, I switched PHOTOGRAPHS BY DREAMSTIME

024_MM09_2021_Sleep_v04.indd 27

doctors (to be clear, I never actually saw a doctor until I “switched”). Dr. Wise and I hit it off immediately. He listened, he laughed, he answered emails so readily that I feared I was cheating him out of his fee. He helped me through the paperwork — a big source of stress for me — and warned me to wean myself off Ambien carefully, not suddenly, lest I relapse to even worse insomnia. Best of all, he suggested I see a therapist who put me on a “sleep diet.” I charted my bedtime and wake-up time each day, limited myself to one 15-minute nap, and stayed in bed no longer than eight hours.

My “sleep efficiency” improved from 60-70 percent (five hours of sleep in eight hours) to 80 percent. Four years after my daughter’s suicide I stopped taking Ambien. In the seven months since then, I have taken only two pills.

I cannot say all is well. I still fight the CPAP mask, it inhibits kissing and affection, and it looks ridiculous. It stops my snoring. More oxygen is better than less. But it is not the miracle machine proponents say it is, at least not for me. I have a new acronym — RBD, or REM sleep behavior disorder. In other words I still kick and punch sometimes. But my wife has stuck with me, and I recently turned 72 with guarded hopes.

The Physician’s Narr ative:

A DESIRE TO FIX THINGS

M

y first impression as I met John was that, for several good reasons, he was frustrated at how little help he had received for his sleep difficulties. Like many of my patients in sleep clinic, he was tired of being tired.

The depth of his frustration was so significant and his well-founded mistrust of people in healthcare was so intense that my first priority was to just listen and take in his story. John’s eyes flashed as he told his story in colorful fashion. I recall his dry humor and his ability to tell his story in vivid detail, with “sidebar” commentary leaving no doubt how he felt. He was angry and he wondered aloud if “this whole sleep thing is a scam.”

He felt taken advantage of, and even though I did not cause the problems, I felt embarrassed that some in the field of sleep medicine had missed the mark so badly.

Not long after we began working together, I asked John if he felt that writing about his experiences would be something he would consider.

Within a few days, I received John’s written story in the mail and what you read above is essentially what he shared with me. Reading John’s essay left me with two main thoughts: 1) MAN, THIS GUY CAN WRITE, and 2) when John writes about his S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 27

8/12/21 2:57 PM

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sleep, he is writing in a highly personal and authentic way about his life and his perspectives on life.

In keeping with the idea that “breathing comes first,” we forged a working relationship focused initially on finding solutions to John’s technical difficulties with CPAP. This allowed some trust to develop and we moved into the more challenging task of addressing John’s chronic insomnia and his REM sleep behavior disorder (dream enactment).

The central role that the death of John’s daughter by suicide played in his sleep problems was a clear reminder of how personal sleep is for each of us.

Everyone has a “sleep story,” and often many sleep stories. How we sleep affects how we feel and function during the day, and what happens during the day affects how we sleep at night. For John, this situation has been a horrible cycle of grief, mourning, and depression punctuated by really bad sleep, followed by another painful day, and so on. I have genuine admiration for John as he faces each day followed by each night of sleep, or lack thereof.

I cannot begin to understand how John feels and how he experiences this cycle; formal medical training does not prepare physicians to fully understand.

Physicians-in-training hear lectures on topics like “Delivering Bad News” or “How to Tell a Patient He Has Cancer.” I had the distinct impression that for John, every day and every night were relivings of his experience of receiving bad news. His sleep problems are a visible and frustrating sign of the invisible pain and suffering he has endured.

Like lots of physicians, I get up every day with a desire to fix things, to make life better for my patients. There is real value in working to fix things.

The problem is that I am never able to “fix” the painful and traumatic experiences that others live with.

It has taken many years for me to learn to appreciate the difference between fixing things and walking with others through their pain and suffering. Only then, and in partnership with the patient, am I able to help create a way to lessen the burden of pain and suffering. In my case as a sleep specialist, this means a pathway to improved sleep health and hopefully better quality of life.

John’s sleep story continues, and like all stories that involve the human condition, sometimes things are better and other times they are not. At times, I still wish I could “fix” all aspects of John’s sleep but that is not how it works.

John Branston lives in Memphis and wrote for wire services, newspapers, and magazines (including this one) for 40 years. He is the author of What K aty Did and Rowdy Memphis .

He can be reached at johnbranston71@gmail.com Merrill S. Wise, MD, is a neurologist and sleep medicine specialist engaged in the full-time practice of sleep medicine in Memphis. He lives with his wife on Mud Island and can be reached at merrillwise1@gmail.com

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8/12/21 3:13 PM

REmodel

M E M P H I S

Your 2021 Guide to Renovation and Modernization

Last year saw the rise of the home office, with stay-at-home mandates seeing plenty of creative approaches to maximizing a space for remote work efficiency. But there’s so much more to a home than workspace. A place that brings together joy, comfort, familiarity, and family deserves to be the best that it can possibly be. Luckily, the West Tennessee Home Builders Association has plenty of connections to tackle any home remodeling project. This year, read on to follow along with the Pennel family as they flip a Collierville house into their dream home.

P H O T O GR A P H Y B Y W E S A ND C L A IRE P ENNEL

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

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

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

1245 Midas Cove, Cordova, TN 38018 901.371.6031 | Mid-SouthNightLights.com

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Jesse Wisley

8/9/21 1:12 PM

DIY Downtown Collierville Revamp Wes and Claire Pennel personally modernize their Peterson Lake abode.

By Samuel X. Cicci

BEFORE

AFTER

D

uring the summer of 2020, Wes and Claire Pennel were thinking about a change. Their Collierville neighborhood had met most of their needs, but it was time for their family to take the next step. A home went up for sale in their preferred part of the town, but transforming it to fit their requirements would require plenty of work. And if something needs doing, sometimes it’s best to do it yourself; Wes – who plies his trade as a homebuilder for Albertine Company in Collierville – and his wife Claire decided to tackle the remodeling process themselves. After months of work, the Pennels’ newlook Peterson Lake Road home was move-in ready and set to host their family for years to come.

“We moved into the new house in March this year,” says Claire. “We’d already been in Collierville for several years, but have always really liked this area.” And while the Pennels had enjoyed their old residence, an opportunity to move much closer to Town Square Park and Downtown Collierville had always held an allure. When their current Peterson Lake Road house came on the market, they quickly snapped it up. The 2,300-squarefoot house didn’t need a full-scale overhaul, but the Pennels wanted a number of changes.

They aimed to renovate the kitchen, bathrooms, and living room. The interior layout of the home changed drastically during the remodeling process, with the kitchen, dining room, and living room all repurposed

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into one larger space. The project also saw an additional 1,000 square feet added to that section of the house.

The Pennels brought in designer Bruce Crane, of the By Design firm, to help formulate their style. One thing the team agreed on was keeping the home’s cedar shingle siding. “We felt like that was part of the original charm,” says Wes. “So he didn’t mess with that.

But we’re in a heavily wooded lot that’s in the shade most of the day, and we didn’t want to simply have a dark exterior color scheme, so we did paint the brick on the outside.”

To begin tackling the interior, they needed to mold the kitchen from a galley-style design to something more effective for their planned space. “It was long and narrow, and opened up into a little 10-by-10-foot dining room area, which would then open into the living room,” says Wes. “It was just too closed off initially, so we combined the kitchen and dining room to create a bigger kitchen space. What was once the living room became our dining room area where we have our kitchen table.”

Opening up the central space made it easier for the family to include an addition. An old parking area was turned into a hearth room with a vaulted ceiling that opens into a screened porch and a fireplace. An office sits off to one side, while the new addition hosts the Pennels’ master bedroom and bathroom. “We

ABOVE: The original 2,300-square-foot home wasn’t quite enough space for the Pennels, their kids, and their dogs. The solution? Clear out an unneeded parking area and add an additional 1,000 square feet. That allowed the Pennels to open up their kitchen into a hearth room with a vaulted ceiling and include a screened-in porch complete with fireplace. One thing that remained the same during the renovation process, however, was the house’s original cedar shingle siding.

made that into a full master bath,” says Wes. “It’s got a long vanity, a freestanding tub, and a master flush threshold shower.”

For the Pennels, keeping the addition proportional to the original house was very important. “We didn’t want it to dominate what was already there,” says Wes. “So it’s a little smaller, a little bit lower than the original building.”

The house’s upstairs bathroom proved the biggest challenge. The Pennels needing to gut it and change the dimensions without cutting into the space for the upstairs bedrooms. The tiny room originally contained just a small stand-in shower, a toilet, and quarter sink, which all had to make way.

“It was so tiny; it almost feels like if you had a full bathroom on an airplane, that would have been it,” S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 31

8/16/21 1:06 PM

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER

laughs Wes. “The door wouldn’t be able to fully open if someone was in there.” The solution to that tricky task lay in the staircase. To accommodate a larger bathroom, the Pennels first had to take out the original staircase and turn it 180 degrees. That allowed them to incorporate the landing and part of the hallway in their design.

While Wes is an experienced builder, renovating an older house always presents challenges. This home, built in 1948, was expected to contain plenty of obstacles.

“You always have to be ready for the unknown,” he says. “We thought long and hard about our floor plan and how we could make it work. Would the rooms shake out in a way that made sense to live in for our family? And of course, you’ve got wiring from the ’80s and some wiring from the ’40s. And then you’re trying to tie that in with basically an additional third to the house with plumbing, electrical, HVAC. But whenever we ran into a problem, we’d put our heads together and find an answer.”

Overall, the project took eight months to complete. And despite a few minor hiccups along the way, construction went smoothly, and the family is happy in the new home. “I love it,” says Claire. “We love the location, we love the layout that we went for, and just being able to put our own style to it. From the colors and fixtures, to exteriors and lighting, it’s the little touches that make a big difference. Wes being in this business really gave us the flexibility to pursue the style we wanted.”

“And one thing I’ll say is that we didn’t have many problems deciding on a direction,” adds Wes. “Even though we handled the renovations ourselves, I like to say that I did have a client for this project, and it’s my wife! Some couples that I’ve worked with might have different ideas about what they want to pursue, but Claire and I were almost always on the same page. So that really helped us move the process along smoothly.”

Having had several months to acclimate to their new home, the Pennels are delighted with the results. And with one kid in middle school and another just starting high school, they’re looking forward to occupying their remodel job for years to come.

“Our minimum goal is to have this be their home while they’re finishing school here and while they’re in college,” says Wes. “We’re five minutes from the Square, so they can leave the house and bike around the neighborhood, and have plenty of things to do while they’re here. We didn’t do all this to move again. We plan on being here for a long time.”

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ABOVE LEFT: The original home’s basic galley-style kitchen was completely revamped into a larger, opened-up space with a sleek style bolstered by F and H Stone countertops, flooring from J&D Tile, and new appliances from Cenwood Appliance.

ABOVE RIGHT: A contrast in styles from the old and new bathrooms. Small spaces with dated color schemes gave way to much bigger, modernized bathrooms with more amenities: a Raleigh Glass-inspired standing shower and upgraded faucets from Kimbel Mechanical.

2021 Supplier List APPLIANCES: Cenwood Appliance - 901-737-4343 BRICK AND MASONRY MATERIALS: General Shale - 901-363-1887 (Katie Yokie) CABINETS: Signature Kitchens - 901-259-6826 (Clyde Roe - Sales) CLOSETS: Inspired Closets Memphis - 901-387-4523 COUNTER FABRICATORS: F and H Stone - 901-458-6821 DRYWALL: Davis Paint and Drywall - 901-850-8431 ELECTRIC: Otto Electric - 901-795-8876 EXTERIOR DOORS: Gates Lumber Company - 901-942-3201 (Jeff Stage- Sales) FIREPLACES:

Quality Insulation - 901-367-3141

FLOORING/HARDWOOD: J&D Tile, Hardwood and Remodel - 901-221-7951 FLOORING - TILE: J&D Tile, Hardwood and Remodel - 901-221-7951 HVAC: Cordova Heating and Air Conditioning Co. - 901-755-6390 HOME DESIGN: By Design - 901-853-9100 LANDSCAPING: A and W Landscape - 901-266 5685 LIGHTING: Graham’s Lighting - 901-757-2465 (Lee Googe - Sales) LUMBER AND MILLWORK: 84 Lumber - 901-861-8433 (Alan Higdon - Sales) METAL ROOF: LDM Roofing - 901-373-3900 MIRRORS AND SHOWER GLASS: Raleigh Glass - 901-317-4911

Davis Painting and Drywall - 901-850-8431 Kimbel Mechanical - 866-582-3899 PLUMBING FIXTURES: Kimbel Mechanical - 866-582-3899 ROOFING MATERIALS: Roofing Supply Group- 888-516-2339 TILES: Esmer Tile - 901-797-9300 PAINTING:

PLUMBING INSTALL:

P H O T O GR A P H Y B Y W E S A ND C L A IRE P ENNEL

8/16/21 1:04 PM

President’s Message

AFTER

By Trey Sowell,

President, West Tennessee Home Builders Association

I

f you’re like most Americans, the pandemic forced you to spend more time in your home. Maybe you got the itch to make some changes to a room to make it more functional. Or perhaps you decided to transform your backyard into an outdoor living space.

If you’re considering a DYI project, the first question to ask yourself is whether it’s more cost-effective to do it yourself or hire a professional. Before tackling any remodeling project, ask yourself the following questions. ◗ Have you ever undertaken a project like this before? ◗ Do you have the tools you’ll need to complete the project? ◗ Do you know where to obtain the necessary materials? ◗ Are you familiar with the applicable building codes and permits? ◗ Do you enjoy physical labor? ◗ Do you have the time and resources to learn the skills needed? ◗ Should the project take longer than expected, are you and your family prepared to handle the inconvenience?

◗ Do you understand all the safety issues (i.e., lead paint, asbestos, or job site dangers)? ◗ Are you familiar with the architecture and structural makeup of your home (i.e., how knocking down one wall will affect the rest of the structure)? ◗ Have you considered the possibility that you may actually decrease the value of your house if the result isn’t up to a professional standard?

It is easy to look at the cost of hiring a professional remodeler and think only of labor and materials. But remember that a professional remodeler offers years of experience, the right tools, a network of suppliers and subcontractors, and in-depth understanding of legal regulations, cost estimating, scheduling, and the latest construction techniques and materials.

The West Tennessee Home Builders Association represents licensed and insured remodelers who will get your job done correctly the first time. To find a list of Remodelers, go to www.westtnhba.com.

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 33

029_MM09_2021_REmodel-Memphis_v04b.indd 33

8/16/21 1:04 PM

Chairman’s Message

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

By Eric Catmur

Chairman, Remodelers Council of WTNHBA

DESIGN PEOPLE PLACES

A

re you dreaming of an updated kitchen or an outdoor living area? Have you been putting off those window replacements or that new roof? Maybe you just want a fresh paint color for your bedroom. No matter the size and scope of your project, the Remodelers Council of the West Tennessee Home Builders Association can help!

Blair Parker Design, LLC. Landscape Architects 9 0 1 . 7 6 7 . 6 5 5 5

Here’s how to get started:

home remodeling has never been easier!

Gather your ideas. Start your search for inspiration by browsing your favorite Pinterest boards and home improvement sites and save ideas in a folder or vision board as you research to help develop your remodeling plans. Identify the fixtures, textures, and materials you like. Consider how space will function and whether your new design will fit within the existing floor plan.

Determine your budget. While it’s tough to determine precisely how much a renovation will cost this early in the process, establishing a budget ceiling will allow you to start getting in touch with professionals.

Visit the “Find an Expert” section of westtnhba.com and click “Get Started” to request a proposal from one of our experts.

We look forward to helping you increase the beauty, functionally, and value of your home!

Memphis Magazine’s

THE 2021

FACE OF

KITCHEN & BATH

MINIMAX Kitchen & Bath

The Pennels’ new hearth room, made possible by the addition of the 1,000 extra square feet added on during the remodeling process. The hearth room is accessed from the newly renovated kitchen, and connects to the screened-in porch overlooking the yard.

DESIGN + BUILD | REMODEL | RENOVATION KITCHEN • BATH • HOME 901-386-6868 | www.minimaxdesign.com

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8/16/21 1:04 PM

84 N. Main | Collierville, TN 38017 | 901.861.7111 | www.FirstFruitCollection.com FirstFruitCollection.com

NEW CONSTRUCTION REMODELS ADDITIONS 901-210-9229

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8/13/21 6:01 PM

@rkaconstruction

WTNHBA Remodelers Council Members List CATMUR DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

Eric Catmur, Council Chair - 901-680-8200 eric . c at mur @ gm a il . c om

ART GETTINGS CONSTRUCTION

Art Gettings - 901-605-9178 a r t ge t t ings @ gm a il . c om

BYRNES OSTNER INVESTMENTS

Tommy Byrnes - 901-681-0499 t omm y @ b y rne s o s t ner . c om

CATMUR DEVELOPMENT COMPANY

John Catmur - 901-680-8200 c at murd c @ c omc a s t . ne t

CENTRAL WOODWORK

Alan Hargett - 901-363-4141 a h a rge t t @ cen w o od . c om COLONIAL ELECTRIC COMPANY

Cory Wheat - 901-356-1026 c or y @ c ol oni a l el e c t ricc ompa n y . c om DAVE MOORE COMPANIES

Dave Moore - 901-870-7372 CUSTOM HOMES | RENOVATIONS l ADDITIONS

901-465-3400 | rka.build

dav e @ dav emo ore c ompa nie s . c om

DESIGNER MILLWORX

Mark Beck - 901-610-8226 de signermil lw or x @ gm a il . c om

Graham’s for your Home Cordova Showroom 8150 Macon Rd. Cordova, TN 38018 901.757.2465

Lighting | Outdoor Living | Hardware Midtown & Cordova

Serving the Mid-South for over 60 years.

Midtown Showroom 550 S. Cooper Memphis, TN 38104 901.274.6780 grahamslighting.com

DESIGNER WHOLESALE KITCHEN BATH AND FLOORS

Destiny Herter - 901-563-8989 de signer w hol e s a l ef l o or s @ gm a il . c om JA CONTRACTORS LLC

Joel Enochos - 901-286-2342 joel @ jac on t r ac t or s . ne t

JOHN HEARD COMPANIES

John Heard - 901-756-6167 jhe a rdhome s @ gm a il . c om RKA CONSTRUCTION

Hunter Cooper, Vice Chair - 901-465-3400 hun t er @ rk a . buil d

MIDTOWNCABINETRY & MILLWORK

Tommy Peeler - 901-485-3316 t omm y @ mid t o w nmil l . c om

PPG PAINTS

Todd Becker - 901-297-3158 t mbe ck er @ pp g . c om SAVAGE TILE COMPANY

Ned Savage - 901-363-9607 s avage t il e c o @ bel l s ou t h . ne t

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

SOUTHERN SCREENS/PHANTOM SCREENS

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Creating a Recipe for Heart Health

Simply modifying how we nourish ourselves can be the first step toward well-being.

BY AMY LAWRENCE AND JUSTIN FOX BURKS

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nyone who knows us as the duo behind The Chubby Vegetarian and sees us on Instagram plucking a perfectly cooked pizza from the oven or harvesting pounds of vegetables from our various garden patches may not realize that we often struggle to get into and maintain heart-healthy shape. A restart was in order this season!

We probably think about food more than you do … more than most people do. After publishing four vegetarian cookbooks over nearly a decade’s time, it’s an occupational hazard, but also an opportunity waiting to be taken. So while we’re not physicians or nutritionists, we do have an interest in doing better for ourselves and our readers. We know that thinking about what we eat and making some tweaks periodically can make a big difference. We just needed some advice.

Amy Lawrence and Justin Fox Burks in their Downtown Memphis photo studio / test kitchen.

Excerpt from Vegetarian Cooking for Two by Justin Fox Burks and Amy Lawrence, published by Rockridge Press. Copyright © 2021 by Callisto Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

Three recipes from Vegetarian Cooking for Two: 80 Perfectly Portioned Recipes for Healthy Eating by Amy Lawrence and Justin Fox Burks

PHOTOGR APHY BY JUS T IN FOX BURK S

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WARM ACORN SQUASH SALAD Serves 2 / Prep Time: 10 minutes / Cook Time: 30 minutes The warm savory flavor from baked squash makes for the perfect salad for fall. You can eat the skin on an acorn squash, so no need to peel.

You may also use delicata squash in this recipe.

1 medium acorn squash 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon curry powder 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, optional 1/3 cup 0% Greek yogurt 1 medium green onion, sliced 1 medium lime, juiced 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce 1/4 cup chopped toasted cashews 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

2. Slice the stem end off of the acorn squash and then slice the squash in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scrape out the seeds and discard or compost them.

3. Slice the squash into 1/2-inch slices, like half-moons.

4. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.

5. Drizzle squash with the olive oil and sprinkle with curry powder and salt.

6. Transfer the sheet pan to the oven and cook for 30 minutes, or until the squash is lightly browned and cooked through.

Remove from the oven.

7. To make the yogurt dressing, put the yogurt, scallion, lime juice, and honey in a small bowl. Using a fork, mix until combined.

8. Put the romaine lettuce on a serving platter or two plates and arrange the squash on top. Top with the yogurt dressing and cashews.

First we turned to Erin Dragutsky and Kristi Edwards, registered dietitians/nutritionists at 901 Nutrition, for a foundation of knowledge about heart health; they’d already been instrumental consultants in our understanding of nutrition when we wrote Low-Carb Vegetarian Cookbook, our most health-conscious work to date. They emailed us their take: “Heart health is all-encompassing, meaning your heart cares about what you eat, how you move, how you manage stress, how much sleep you get, what your family history is, and more.”

That makes sense; so what’s a good first nuts, and seeds, as these foods help to boost anstep in the journey? “If we were to choose just tioxidant levels, reduce cholesterol, and improve one thing to focus on, it gut function, all of which “Heart health is all-encompassing, would be to increase fiaid in heart health.” meaning your heart cares about what ber intake,” Dragutsky You know we’re also and Edwards advise. going to sing the praises you eat, how you move, how you manage “Most Americans do not of fiber and of eating your stress, how much sleep you get, what consume adequate fiber vegetables and legumes, your family history is, and more.” and we try to make this daily, as the minimum — Erin Dragutsky and Kristi Edwards both fun and appealing daily requirement for an 9 0 1 N U T R I T I O N adult is 25 grams. We enwith our recipes. A good courage whole-food sources of fiber, such approach to get to know which vegetables as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, you like and how you like them prepared is

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CONFETTI CORN CHOWDER Serves 2 / Prep Time: 10 minutes / Cook Time: 25 minutes We like how the red pepper and chives add some contrasting color to the mix so that this corn chowder looks as good as it tastes. This recipe makes the perfect amount for two, but it’s easy to scale up for guests.

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small white onion, diced 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 chipotle chili from a can, diced (or one seeded, minced jalapeño) 1 cup water 1/2 cup fat-free milk or plant milk 1 teaspoon white vinegar 1-1/2 cups frozen organic corn, divided 1 Yukon Gold potato, diced 1 red pepper, diced 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, optional black pepper, to taste

fat-free sour cream or 0% Greek yogurt, for serving

chopped chives, for garnish 1. In a medium pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.

2. Add the onion and cook for about 7 minutes, or until translucent and soft.

3. Add the cumin, garlic, and chili and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

4. In a blender, combine the water, milk, vinegar, and 1 cup of frozen corn.

Blend the mixture.

6. Add the mixture to the pot along with the potato and bell pepper.

7. Put the remaining 1/2 cup of corn in a medium pan. Cook over high heat, stirring occasionally, for 4 minutes, or until kernels are nicely browned. Remove from the heat.

8. Add the corn to the pot.

9. Reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes, or until the potato is tender.

10. Remove from the heat. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

11. Garnish with chives and sour cream.

to select a meal or two during the week and experiment. Just serve smaller portions of traditional protein and heaping helpings of your new vegetable masterpieces. We’ll give you a head start here with recipes selected from Vegetarian Cooking for Two that we modified slightly to be more heart-healthy. For those who are looking to reduce their sodium intake further or want to avoid it entirely, using herbs, spices, and Mrs. Dash seasonings for f lavor are viable options.

A good visual tip when you’re grocery shopping is to add colorful fruits and vegetables to

your basket so that your meals have variety and an array of good nutrition. Later at home, spend a few minutes checking out how other folks have prepared their produce. Out of ideas just the other day, we learned a lot by searching “how to make zucchini taste good.” In addition, we keep a big fruit bowl that was a wedding gift on our kitchen countertop, and we fill it with seasonal fruits and vegetables so that we see them and remember to use them.

Sometimes we even plan a meal based on color, like a mango smoothie bowl with pine-

apple, bananas, orange slices, and macadamia nuts — because it’s fun, and also because it helps if something that’s good for you happens to look nice, too.

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hile we only develop plantbased recipes, that’s by no means a prerequisite when focusing on heart health.

Being a vegetarian or consuming a diet with a variety of vegetables are commendable steps, but not silver bullets. For example, sodium can be a hidden hazard in any diet. The American Heart Association recommends adults S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 39

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BANANA OAT SMOOTHIE BOWLS Serves 2 / Prep Time: 5 minutes / Cook Time: 0 minutes This healthy, hybrid breakfast combines superfood oats with potassium-packed bananas.

It’s the perfect way to perk up your morning routine, especially when the weather is warm.

You’ll never get tired of this because it’s infinitely customizable. Just swap out the toppings to suit your mood or use whatever you have on hand.

2 medium bananas, frozen 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats 1-1/2 cups unsweetened fat-free milk or plant milk 1 teaspoon maple syrup

Juice of 1/2 lemon 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt, optional ◗ Raisins, diced apple, berries, sunflower seeds, nuts, nut butter, chia seeds (to garnish) 1.

In a blender, combine the bananas, oats, milk, maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt. Blend until mostly smooth.

2. Divide mixture between two shallow bowls.

3. Garnish with your choice of toppings and serve cold.

stay below 2300 mg of sodium per day. It was home, we even designate one person to be the a revelation for us to plan meals containing official “putter-upper” of leftovers to signal less than 500 mg of sodium per serving, so that the meal is complete. that our days would stay well below 2300 When we emailed Baptist Memorial mg, and then to work toward their further Healthcare’s Hannah Peters, MS, RDN, LDN, recommendation of consuming under 1500 and asked what advice she would give to peomg of sodium a day. ple who want to work on improving their Checking food labels is a good habit; choosheart health, one recommendation was at ing lower-sodium ketchup, soy sauce, and cans the top of her list: increasing physical activity. of beans has been helpful in reducing our “It is so easy to live a sedentary lifestyle,” she intake as well, because surprisingly, it’s not says. “Physical activity is extremely important the added salt at the table that’s usually the for our health, muscle mass, and quality of life. main culprit of too much soI would encourage individu“You can control the portions, dium in one’s diet. als to find a form of exercise Carolyn Nichols, nutrition that they enjoy and make it fat, and salt in all your meals education coordinator for a point to stick to it weekly.” by cooking with heartthe Church Health Center, Peters continues, “As far healthy ingredients.” advises getting in the habas diet goes, in the South, — Carolyn Nichols we eat a lot of fried and it of cooking at home and N U T R I T I O N E D U C AT I O N C O O R D I N AT O R keeping an eye on portion processed foods. Changing C H U R C H H E A LT H C E N T E R sizes. “You can control the our cooking methods from portions, fat, and salt in all your meals by frying to baking can decrease both the calories and fat of many recipes, which is better cooking with heart-healthy ingredients,” for our hearts.” she says. “Plan your plates with the proper portion sizes and you will be on the road to Another change we’ve implemented is takimproving your heart health.” ing the American Heart Association’s “30 Working on portion sizes is a good remindDays of Heart” challenge on americaner. We have been doing our best to save half heart.org. This campaign is sponsored by Baptist Memorial Health Care in our region of our once-a-month, special-treat favorite meals from local Vietnamese restaurant and is summed up as “Thirty healthy steps.

Phuong Long or Mayuri Indian Cuisine for One day at a time. Backed by science.” Now, lunch the next day. When we’re cooking at we love it when something as daunting as

changing old habits is made easier, and we decided to try the program. Daily challenges are as simple as replacing go-to sugary drinks with water dressed up with fruit. You can download a journal with all of the details and tag the parts of your journey that you want to share on social with #30DaysofHeart. The AHA also features some excellent recipes on their site, and we can’t wait to try them and learn more about this way of cooking.

T

hese discoveries led us to chat with Libby Perry Ridenhour, communications director at the American Heart Association, Mid-South. She mentioned that her dad had recently been doing more plantbased cooking, even introducing the family to jackfruit. He had triple-bypass surgery on March 1, 2021, and had become very motivated to make some remarkable changes in his life and diet.

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ould we want to talk with him? Ridenhour asked. Of course.

Hal Perry, owner and artisan of Second Chance Boards and a consultant in corporate learning and supply chain management, is still recovering but is determined to steer his health onto the right track; the education he received about nutrition in his weeks of cardiac rehab was a tremendous help.

“I’ll always be a heart patient,” he states, and he tracks his meals, which now are more

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plant-based. He’s found ways to make some of his old favorites, like chili, “legal” on the new plan, and he says Memphis restaurants “always have salads and will reduce portion sizes of a dish or put the sauce on the side.”

While he may try a little bit of something he misses the taste of when he’s out at a party, he has the freedom and knowledge to compensate for it with additional exercise or vegetables the next day.

“We need to teach our kids to like fruits and vegetables and enjoy a healthy diet because atherosclerosis can start at a very young age.”

— Dr. Steven S. Gubin P R E S I D E N T, S T E R N C A R D I O VA S C U L A R F O U N D AT I O N A N D A M E R I C A N H E A R T A S S O C I AT I O N B O A R D

His main goal? “I don’t want to get back on that operating table ever again,” he says. He is open about his experience because now, he feels that his health is up to him, and he wants other people to know that change is possible.

Lastly, Dr. Steven S. Gubin, president of Stern Cardiovascular Foundation and also president of the American Heart Association board, handed us the key to unlocking what feels like such a mystery: What really is in our control when it comes to heart health?

He says to focus on “modifiable risk factors.”

These include high blood pressure, stress, diabetes, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle, all of which can be managed, unlike non-modifiable factors such as aging and family history. Knowing what to focus on right now is quite helpful.

There’s much debate about what constitutes a healthy diet these days, and Gubin mentioned two things that stuck with us: “We need to teach our kids to like fruits and vegetables and enjoy a healthy diet because atherosclerosis can start at a very young age.”

In addition, Gubin emphasizes that there isn’t one diet for everyone, and that going vegetarian or vegan is not a requirement for heart health. He does view the Mediterranean diet as a good option overall.

Stress, one of the modifiable risk factors, can be managed more easily by getting seven to nine hours of sleep a night and integrating things like yoga into your exercise routine. If you need more in terms of some personalized strategies to manage how you react to stressors in your life, Gubin recommends enlisting the advice of a psychologist to learn more ways to reduce stress.

All in all, we know we personally needed these reminders and ways to stay on track, and we hope you are as inspired as we are by them. Anytime is a good time for a healthy restart, and your heart is sure to thank you for it. We’ll be right here along with you on the path to heart health!

To learn more, visit chubbyvegetarian. com.

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L O CA L

Wanda Martin earned “Outstanding Athlete” honors at the 2019 Memphis District competition in the Tennessee Senior Olympics.

PHOTOGRAPH BY KAREN PULFER FOCHT

T R E AS U R E S

MEDALS AND MOMENTS

WANDA MARTIN has found her stride as a competitive runner, among other fitness endeavors.

BY FR A NK MURTAUG H

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anda Martin earned four gold medals and three silvers at the 2019 Memphis District Senior Olympics, winning both a sprint (200 meters) and “the metric mile” (1,500 meters). But

those are merely shiny accoutrements, tangible mementos from the Bartlett resident’s recent competitive past. As the 74-year-old Martin prepares for this year’s event (September 24 – October 8, multiple venues), her active lifestyle is itself the reward, and one that shines in its own way every single day.

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“A lot of people think if you’re doing Senior Olympics, you’re admitting you’re an old person,” says Martin, stifling laughter. “They need to change the name. I love competing.”

Martin grew up in Charleston, Mississippi, and the roots of her interest in sports and exercise were planted firmly by a rather Norman Rockwellian childhood. She studied hard in school, but when not in school, she tended to be outside.

“I was a tomboy,” she says with a smile.

“I had two younger brothers and mostly male cousins. We played in the woods, swung on grapevines. We lived on a gravel road.” Martin played basketball and competed for the track team (relays and the long jump) for East Tallahatchie High School. (She notes that in the 1960s, girls played a version of basketball that required certain players for offense and others for defense. Martin was a defensive guard.) The Warriors contended annually for the Delta Valley Conference championship, infusing her with an early affection for winning.

Ironically, Martin did not compete regularly as a young adult, or even in middle age. She moved to Memphis in 1967, married her husband, Richard, in 1975, and they raised a son, Michael. Her life was active, but strictly the kind of activity common to moms managing a life-work balance. She spent two decades with FedEx as a senior sales analyst, tasked with promoting events. This required her to travel extensively, often for NASCAR races. (A large, framed photo of driver Denny Hamlin — a three-time Daytona 500 winner sponsored by FedEx — hangs prominently in her living room.) It wasn’t until her retirement in 2008 that Martin truly devoted herself to a new level of fitness and, yes, competition.

“Since I retired, I’m at the gym,” says Martin. “I have fitness classes [at the Bartlett Recreation Center] that I love. I walk four miles with my walking buddy every morning at 7 a.m. We walked a lot anyway, but when the BRC closed during the pandemic, we walked every day. We’re still doing that. You can do it anywhere.” A typical weekday for Martin includes four hours of volunteering in the afternoon at St. Francis Hospital-Bartlett, then two hours of tennis in the evening.

An active life includes stumbles. Martin broke her right wrist (during a mishap in a fitness class) in August 2020 so has had to rebuild strength in her racket hand for tennis.

She’s also recovered nicely from Lapiplasty on her right foot, a procedure to relieve pain caused by a bunion (a misalignment of the foot’s bones that causes an abnormal protrusion on the instep).

“I’ve had friends undergo more traditional bunion surgery,” explains Martin, “but it’s very painful, and there’s a long recovery. I wasn’t willing to give up six months of activity.” Martin’s right foot is now reinforced with

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small, titanium braces (which, she points out, do not set off metal detectors), and she intends to have the same procedure done for her left foot (at OrthoNow) this fall, knowing the recovery period is little more than six weeks.

In addition to competing in no fewer than six races — from 50 meters to 1,500 — at the upcoming Senior Olympics, Martin has entered the doubles-tennis tournament. She plays regularly with a group of eight women, one of them 83 years old. Martin is a tennis fan and loved watching Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert in the 1980s, but relishes current stars like recent Wimbledon champion Ash Barty. There’s irony here, a 74-year-old woman playing tennis on virtually a daily basis, when professionals are classified as “seasoned” at age 30.

What kind of diet does a septuagenarian fitness nut incorporate? “I try to eat healthy, but don’t all the time,” Martin acknowledges. “I eat breakfast every morning: cereal or a [protein] bar. And I eat salads for lunch.

I drink lots of water every day, and rarely have carbonation.”

“Since I retired, I’m at the gym. I have fitness classes [at the Bartlett Recreation Center] that I love. I walk four miles with my walking buddy every morning at 7 a.m. We walked a lot anyway, but when the BRC closed during the pandemic, we walked every day. We’re still doing that.

You can do it anywhere.”

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Martin draws a thought-provoking distinction between the competition she faces today, in her 70s, as compared with what she remembers from her youth. “It’s harder today,” she says, “because people are stronger and fitter.

I’m stronger than I was 30 years ago. When I was in high school, I was real skinny. My tennis partner for the Senior Olympics is 78, and you’d never know it.”

The Memphis District Senior Olympics has scheduled all six of Martin’s races on the same day, and this is the way she likes it. (The races will take place at Memphis University School.)

And she reminds those counting that there’s actually a seventh test: a 1,500-meter race walk. She feels strongest in the sprints (50, 100, and 200 meters). For previous years, track events were scheduled around field events (long jump and such).

“I won’t have to wait [for field events],” she emphasizes, “and I’m excited about that.”

Martin will compete in her age group (fiveyear increments), and among other women.

As for the state competition that follows for winners on the district level, Martin, as she did in 2019, will take a pass. “I’m okay,” she

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LO CA L

T R E AS U R E S says. “I enjoy competing locally.” And she doesn’t miss traveling.

After sharing a drawer full of medals with a visitor, Martin is asked to name her favorite moment as an athlete, and across her entire life. She walks straight PHOTOGRAPH BY KAREN PULFER FOCHT to a plaque that recognized her as “Outstanding Athlete” at the 2019 Memphis District Senior Olympics. “I almost couldn’t go up [to accept the award],” she says. “It was a total surprise.” The honor recognizes one male and one female athlete across all age groups and events.

Martin’s advice for other senior athletes (that word again)? “If you’re my age, and you’ve not been active, you’ll need to start small,” she says.

“Find something you like to do. Even if it’s just walking. Get an Apple Watch. Some kind of tracker. My watch motivates me. It tells me if it’s time to stand up. I have moving goals, exercise goals, and standing goals. I want to close those [tracking] rings, every day.”

There are two more important tips Martin stresses, and they’re as good for mental health as physical. “Find a partner,” she says. “There are days that are too hot or too cold, and if I was exercising by myself, I’d stay right on the couch. But not with an accountability partner.

Even a dog can help.

“And volunteer,” she adds, with emphasis. “I volunteer at the hospital, at my church, at the library. I love volunteering outside the corporate world. It’s very rewarding.”

Two hours of evening tennis — a sport that knows no age boundaries — is part of Martin’s exercise routine.

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Anyone age 50 and up is eligible for the Senior Olympics. For more information visit tnseniorolympics .com . For the Memphis district, call 901-254-9113.

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2021MEMPHIS AREA

PHOTOGRAPH BY LUNAMARINA / DREAMSTIME

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE 049_MM09_2021_MAIS_v06.indd 1

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President’s Letter A

s schools in America enter the third school year affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, independent schools remain poised to deliver a strong educational experience to their students. Independent schools in Memphis were some of the first to provide a full on-campus experience to their students last school year and proved that it could be done safely and successfully. It is the ability of independent schools to pivot quickly that provides its students with strong educational opportunities. This year will be no different as our schools take lessons learned from the past 18 months to provide a challenging educational experience to students in the Memphis area.

The Memphis Association of Independent Schools (MAIS) represents 34 of the region’s finest private schools, each of which is unique, and all of which share a commitment to setting educational excellence, meeting the needs of individual students, and building a stronger community.

In the Mid-South, we are fortunate to have a wide variety of high-quality educational

opportunities: public, charter, and independent. Independent schools in the Memphis area are numerous and varied. Parents inquiring at these schools generally are interested in strong academics, small class sizes, and innovative approaches to education that will best prepare their children for college.

What does “independent” mean? Each MAIS member school is guided by its own mission, maps its own curriculum, develops its own programs, creates its own educational environment, and is governed by its own board. We are independent in our educational offerings and in whom we serve. Among our members, you will find a variety of schools designed for specific ages, gender, religious affiliations, and special needs.

Our teaching and learning environments range from traditional to progressive.

All MAIS schools nurture intellectual curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and promote personal growth.

Students from all socioeconomic backgrounds attend independent schools, and many

PHOTOGRAPH BY RAWPIXELIMAGES | DREAMSTIME

September 2021

schools work with families to help meet the costs associated with an independent school education. Some offer monthly payment options, while many offer financial aid grants, which are discounts on tuition.

With the autonomy to implement programs free from state mandates, independent schools are able to create innovative curricula that meet the ever-changing needs of students. Individual attention is a hallmark of independent schools, where smaller class sizes enable them to foster a variety of learning opportunities inside and outside the classroom. Teachers at independent schools develop an understanding of their students’ learning styles and potential, expect all students to succeed, and encourage students to value perseverance and achievement. In

this environment, students form relationships with their teachers, which frequently lead to greater academic success and often transcend the school day as teachers become life mentors for students.

Independent schools not only nurture students’ intellectual ability and curiosity but also their social growth and civic conscience. Opportunities extend well beyond the classroom for athletic competitions, artistic pursuits, and leadership experiences. Students and teachers of independent schools are engaged citizens, volunteering throughout the Mid-South. Community service, whether required or voluntary, is a core component of MAIS schools.

When choosing a school, parents are wise to seek out one whose mission, values, and teaching philosophy are right

for their family and to consider the community, curriculum, and extracurriculars that answer the essential question, “Is this school a good fit for my child?”

As you read through this publication, we hope you will want to learn more about the outstanding educational opportunities that exist in the schools that comprise the Memphis Association of Independent Schools. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with Memphis magazine in presenting this information.

MAIS is proud to represent the families of the nearly 18,000 students who attend independent schools in the Mid-South.

We invite you to schedule visits and tour MAIS campuses. We will welcome you!

Dr. Bryan Williams MAIS President

Dr. Bryan Williams

Lionel Cable

Dr. Kristen Ring

Rabbi Benjy Owen

Albert L. Throckmorton

MAIS President Head of School, Christ Methodist Day School

MAIS Vice President Head of School, New Hope Christian Academy

MAIS Secretary Head of School, Hutchison School

MAIS Treasurer Head of School, Margolin Hebrew Academy

MAIS Past President Head of School, St. Mary’s Episcopal School

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY RHODES COLLEGE

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

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Hutchison School

1740 Ridgeway Road, Memphis, TN 38119 hutchisonschool.org Mary Grimes Hutchison was ahead of her time in 1902 when she founded a girls’ school in Memphis to develop young women who were resilient, independent thinkers. More than 118 years later, Hutchison continues to be a leader in girls’ education, empowering young women to be intellectually curious and inspired to lead.

Trusting relationships are central to our mission. We make sure that each girl at Hutchison genuinely feels valued and known. Having adults in roles that support students outside of classroom instruction is part of the culture of Hutchison.

When there’s trust, students work harder and tackle challenging coursework with much more confidence. In a supportive environment, girls are given the space to grow academically, channel their talents, and become comfortable with their place in the world.

Beginning with two-year-olds who learn to connect ideas in early literacy, math, and science through play and exploration, and continuing through upper school, with a superior college preparatory curriculum, girls are empowered to reach their full potential and feel secure in their identity.

We believe each girl deserves a journey built around her unique skills. We strive to meet and encourage girls in their interests. The second grader enthralled with storytelling today may end up filming documentaries in upper school.

Whether it’s picking a debate topic, scoring the winning goal, or designing the costumes for the next theater production, girls get the chance to excel at what they enjoy.

The Hutchison classroom experience is rooted in traditional values, cultivating ethical thinkers who are motivated to be global citizens. It begins in preschool, when we promote the value of living in community by celebrating when girls help friends finish a puzzle. In lower school, girls learn about and practice important character traits such as empathy, honesty, and humility. In middle school, teachers help our girls express their opinions, learn to listen to other people’s opinions, and debate their positions. Upper school girls tackle important issues and take on leadership roles by designing and implementing their own projects, often out in the Mid-South community.

Since every grade level is located on one expansive 52-acre campus, as girls advance through the school, they gain confidence in their surroundings and a sense of place in their Hutchison community. The lush campus is a yearround learning lab for all grades. Early childhood and lower school classes visit the farm to practice counting as they plant vegetables, watch them grow, and harvest the result.

Middle school girls venture out on the lake to evaluate water quality. Meanwhile, upper school girls study zoology and environmental sustainability issues.

Our all-girl learning environment and our focus on each girl results in confident learners who are not afraid to take risks.

A Hutchison girl can articulate her point of view from a lectern, bring comedy or drama to the stage, or lead an athletic team to victory. Anywhere she can imagine is not just a slogan. If a Hutchison girl can imagine it, she can do it.

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Talking with Dr. Bryan Williams, MAIS President Head of School, Christ Methodist Day School

BY ABIGAIL MORICI

What is an independent school, and how do independent schools differ from the standard public education system?

An independent school is a school that operates by nature independently from other schools, both public and private.

An independent school is defined exclusively by its mission statement.

For example, some independent schools serve a single-sex student body while others choose a co-educational approach. Some schools have a religious foundation while others have a nonreligious educational approach. The beauty of an independent school is that it has the freedom to create an educational program that fulfills its mission and has a specific focus on how to educate its students. It is not tied to a one-size-fitsall approach that one might encounter in a larger public system.

What are the benefits of attending an MAIS school?

By choosing an MAIS school, a parent has the ability to partner with a school that lines up with their values and beliefs to pursue a high-quality education for their child. Parents are given a choice in how their child is taught and given a very transparent view of what they are being taught. In understanding the mission of the school, a parent has the opportunity to choose a school that will partner alongside them to teach their child in a manner they support and see the value of. In the long-term, MAIS schools can help children reach higher goals post-graduation with the ability to network and build relationships with others that can help them pursue goals in college and beyond. Parents should expect an alliance with an MAIS school where they are valued and where they can readily see the value of the investment they are making in their child’s education.

Bodine School

2432 Yester Oaks Dr., Germantown, TN 38139 901.754.1800 • bodineschool.org communications@bodineschool.org

Bodine School serves students in grades 1-6 who have been diagnosed with d y slex ia . The core curriculum at all grade l e ve l s f o c u s e s o n fundamental skills in lan gua g e ar t s an d mathematics, while the cornerstone of Bodine’s language arts instruction is the daily Orton-Gillingham (O-G) lesson. O-G instruction is delivered in class sizes of ten students or fewer, and all classroom teachers participate in intensive, ongoing O-G training.

Bodine School’s Instructional Program was recently a cc r e d i te d b y t h e Orton-Gillingham Academy (OGA), demonstrating Bodine’s commitment to dyslexia remediation.

How do the MAIS member schools differ from one another? How does a parent/guardian determine which one is the right fit?

There are currently more than 30 MAIS member schools. These schools work together to provide a strong independent school education for students in Memphis and the surrounding areas. Each school is unique in its own mission and approach to educating children. While there are many similarities among independent schools, there are also things that make each school different. Parents should begin by looking closely at the mission statement of a school they are interested in. If the mission statement seems to align with the values they are seeking for their child, then they should explore that school more in-depth. If a parent is interested in learning more about a specific independent school, then they should research that school more through its website and social media presence. A next step would be to contact the school’s admissions department and set up a tour or student visit.

What is the range of tuition costs? How can students go about acquiring financial assistance?

Memphis independent school tuition ranges from about $3,000 for part-time,

Bodine School Bornblum Jewish Community School Briarcrest Christian School Christ Methodist Day School Christ the King Lutheran School Christian Brothers High School Collegiate School of Memphis Concord Academy Evangelical Christian School Fayette Academy First Assembly Christian School Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School Harding Academy Hutchison School Lamplighter Montessori School Lausanne Collegiate School Madonna Learning Center

early childhood programs all the way up to $25,000 for high school. One of the unique traits of Memphis independent schools is there is a wide variety of tuition ranges.

Most independent schools offer financial aid through an application process. Economic diversity is very important to all private schools, and all interested families are encouraged to apply. The easiest way to find out more about financial aid is to reach out to the school’s admissions office for more information.

What does the application process look like when applying to independent schools?

It is important to note that the application process for independent schools begins early. Many schools begin the admissions process for the following school year months in advance. In Memphis, most independent schools begin giving tours for the following school year in September of the current year. Many independent schools begin offering open houses in the fall of the year before you wish to attend. It is a good idea to follow schools you are interested in on social media and ask to be placed on their admissions email list to stay up to date on application information. Admissions testing occurs in the winter, and most new families begin receiving contracts for the following year in February.

MEMBERS

Margolin Hebrew Academy Memphis University School New Hope Christian Academy Northpoint Christian School Our Lady of Perpetual Help Presbyterian Day School Rossville Christian Academy St. Agnes Academy / St. Dominic School St. Benedict at Auburndale High School St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School St. George’s Independent School St. Mary’s Episcopal School Tipton Rosemark Academy Trinity Christian Academy Westminster Academy Woodland Presbyterian School

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Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School

St. Francis of Assisi School

2100 Germantown Pkwy • Cordova, TN 38016 901.381.2548 • sfawolves.org

8151 Poplar Avenue, Germantown, TN, 38138 901.753.1181 • fax 901.754.1475 • olphowls.org

For the past 25 years, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School has opened its doors each fall to serve students in the heart of Germantown.

The co-educational, PreK-8 Catholic School provides an accredited, childcentered, developmentally appropriate program, serving all qualified children of any race, creed, national or ethnic origin. In addition to the robust academic offerings, OLPH offers various extracurricular and extended day offerings for all age levels. Our Lady of Perpetual Help School is firmly rooted in Christian values and provides an environment designed for the optimal development of the whole child emphasized throughout the school program. Our Lady of Perpetual Help School’s mission is to instill in our students the fundamental beliefs of the Roman Catholic faith, ensuring quality learning experiences with the highest regard for individual differences while preparing them to live in a changing world as self-directed, caring, responsible citizens.

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School educates students, ages 2 through 8th grade, and has built a reputation of producing academic leaders and preparing students for the top high schools in Memphis. Since founded in 2004, SFA has produced 16 Valedictorians, 10 Salutatorians, 15 National Merit Finalists and 20 National Merit Commended Scholars.

SFA has been on the leading edge of integrating technology into the classroom to promote interaction, collaboration, and engagement. We provide all students with 1:1 Apple devices and all classrooms are equipped with Promethean Boards or Apple TVs. With Project Lead the Way STEM Courses, students become problem solvers and effective communicators for a complex and challenging world.

Why an SFA, Catholic Education? High standards, a moral foundation and compassion that our children and society need right now. We have a place for your child to grow in mind and spirit.

Concord Academy

4942 Walnut Grove Road, Memphis, TN 38117 901.682.3115 • concord-academy.org • info@concord-academy.org

Concord Academy is a place for students with learning differences to belong and succeed.

Many schools are not equipped nor inclined to support the unique needs of students with learning differences. At Concord Academy, our specialized teachers and staff work with students to foster success in the classroom, support social-emotional growth, and set students up for success after high school.

Combining our expertise with a culture of understanding, belonging, and support, we see Concord students blossom in learning, building friendships, and being appreciated for what makes them unique. Concord Academy equips students with learning differences with the skills they need for lifelong success.

Concord Academy is an independent, state-approved, special education middle and high school serving students with learning disabilities, Autism, ADD/ADHD, anxiety/depression, and other diverse learning needs.

Learn Differently

Concord Community Day October 5

Join us for Concord Community Day! Meet our staff and students and learn more about our exceptional school!

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Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School 246 S. Belvedere Blvd., Memphis, TN 38104 901.278.0200 • gslschool.org

Where Every Child Belongs

Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School is a coed, independent school for children age 2 through grade 8. Founded in 1947 in the heart of Midtown’s beautiful Central Gardens neighborhood, GSL prepares boys and girls to become creative problem solvers, confident lifelong learners, and responsible citizens in their communities and the world.

Our ongoing success is driven by an excellent academic program and is rooted in GSL’s long tradition of educating the whole child. With the Formative Five curriculum as the foundation of our character education program, GSL emphasizes the traits of integrity, empathy, self-control, embracing diversity, and grit. In our Episcopal school setting, everyone is welcomed and respected, and GSL prides itself on being a community where each individual is known and cherished. Our worldview is an inclusive one, and we believe that through dignity, respect, love, and service, we have infinite possibilities to serve both our students and our community.

Come see firsthand why so many Mid-South families choose GSL for their children’s educational foundation!

VISIT GSL

Tours are available year-round. To schedule a visit, contact Enrollment Director Shelly McGuire at 901.278.0200 or email learnmore@gslschool.org today.

I never stopped inventing.

Briarcrest students are taught to embrace any challenges life may bring and use them to grow academically and spiritually.

Learning never stops.

OPEN HOUSES: Elementary - Oct. 19 and Nov. 9

| Middle & High School - Oct. 28 and Nov. 18 briarcrest.com

|

901.765.4600

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2021 Guide to Memphis Area Independent Schools Bodine School 2432 Yester Oaks Dr., Germantown, 38139 754-1800 bodineschool.org GRADES: 1st-6th TUITION: check with office; financial aid available ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 83/10:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: none/dyslexia and dyslexia-related reading differences BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Bornblum Jewish Community School 6641 Humphreys Blvd., 38120 747-2665 bornblum.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: K-8th TUITION: Kindergarten - $9,200; 1st-8th - $11,000 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 108/6:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Jewish BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Briarcrest Christian School 76 S. Houston Levee, Eads, 38028 765-4600 briarcrest.com STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: Age 2 yrs.-12th TUITION: $5,000–$17,100 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 1,607/11:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: nondenominational Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Christ Methodist Day School 411 S. Grove Park, 38117 683-6873 choosecmds.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: 2K-6th TUITION: $2,600-$13,675 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 540/9:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Christ the King Lutheran School 5296 Park, 38119 682-8405 ctkschool.com STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: 18 months-8th TUITION: $8,500-$8,950 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 220/5:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Lutheran BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Christian Brothers High School

Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School

5900 Walnut Grove, 38120 261-4900 cbhs.org STUDENT BODY: male GRADES: 9th-12th TUITION: $14,850

246 S. Belvedere, 38104 278-0200 gslschool.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: Age 2-8th TUITION: $5,370-18,970

ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 730/12:1

ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 450/9:1

RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Roman Catholic

RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Episcopal

BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: no

BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Collegiate School of Memphis

Harding Academy of Memphis

3353 Faxon Ave., 38122 591-8200 collegiatememphis.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: 6th-12th TUITION: $12,800-$13,000 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 365/12:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: nondenominational Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: after-school only

Concord Academy 4942 Walnut Grove, 38117 682-3115 concord-academy.org GRADES: 6th-12th TUITION: $12,339-$12,922 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 65/7:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: none/learning and social disabilities BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Evangelical Christian School SHELBY FARMS MIDDLE & UPPER SCHOOL CAMPUS 7600 Macon Rd., 38018 754-7217 STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: 6th-12th LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS 1920 Forest Hill-Irene 754-4420 STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: Little Eagles (age 2)-5th ecseagles.com TUITION: $6,200-$16,800 BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Fayette Academy Academy 15090 Hwy. 64, Somerville, 38068 465-3241 www.fayetteacademy.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: PK3-12th TUITION: $3,975-$8,325 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 600/15:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: nondenominational Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

First Assembly Christian School 8650 Walnut Grove, Cordova, 38018 458-5543 facsmemphis.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: PK3-12th TUITION: $5,954-$11,677 (resource-sparks/student services additional fee) ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 500/10:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: interdenominational Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

K-12 Campus 1100 Cherry Rd., 38117 767-4494 hardinglions.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: Sr. K-12th LITTLE HARDING EAST CORDOVA CAMPUS 8350 Macon Road, 38018 767-4494 STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: 18 months-Jr. K LITTLE HARDING EAST MEMPHIS CAMPUS 1106 Colonial, 38117 767-2093 STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: 6 weeks-Jr. K TUITION: $11,795–$16,495 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 650/7.5:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Hutchison School 1740 Ridgeway, 38119 761-2220 hutchisonschool.org STUDENT BODY: female GRADES: Age 2-12th grade TUITION: $5,300-$23,650 ENROLLMENT: 825; early childhood, 9:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: nonsectarian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Lamplighter Montessori School 8563 Fay Rd., 38018 751-2000 lamplighterschool.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: Age 18 mos.-8th TUITION: $7,200-$15,700 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 140/5:1/12:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: nonsectarian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Lausanne Collegiate School 1381 W. Massey, 38120 474-1000 lausanneschool.com STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: PK2-12th TUITION: $12,200 - $24,580 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 845/7:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: nonsectarian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

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Madonna Learning Center

Presbyterian Day School

7007 Poplar, Germantown, 38138 752-5767 madonna-learning.org GRADES: flexible levels, ungraded classrooms (ages 4-30) TUITION: $13,800, financial aid available ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 43/6:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: none/special needs, including Down syndrome, developmental and learning disabilities, sensory processing disorders, and other learning challenges BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

4025 Poplar, 38111 842-4600 pdsmemphis.org STUDENT BODY: male GRADES: Age 2-6th TUITION: $5,700-$21,920

Margolin Hebrew Academy S. White Station, 38117 682-2400 mhafyos.org GRADES: PK-12th/co-ed (PK3-8th), female (9th-12th), male (9th-12th) TUITION: $7,376-$19,553 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 215/4:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Jewish BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: after only

ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 500/9:1

MEMPHIS CAMPUS 3749 Kimball Avenue, 38111 261-3920 GRADES: PK-5th TUITION: $9,690-$22,990 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 1,115 (all

locations)/9:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Episcopal

RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Presbyterian

BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes (PK-8th)

BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

St. Mary’s Episcopal School

Rossville Christian Academy 280 High St., Rossville, 38066 853-0200 rossvillechristian.com STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: Preschool-12th TUITION: $5,650-$8,350 (financial aid available) ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 318/14:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: interdenominational Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

St. Agnes Academy / St. Dominic School

60 Perkins Extd., 38117 537-1405 stmarysschool.org STUDENT BODY: female GRADES: Age 2-12th TUITION: $3,750-$23,950 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 818/8:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Episcopal BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: after only

Tipton Rosemark Academy 8696 Rosemark, Millington, 38053 829-6536 tiptonrosemarkacademy.net STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: K2-12th TUITION: $3,774-$10,078

STUDENT BODY: male

4830 Walnut Grove, 38117 767-1356 saa-sds.org STUDENT BODY: St. Agnes, female; St. Dominic, male GRADES: 2K-12th (girls), 2K-8th (boys) TUITION: $4,510-$18,475

GRADES: 7th-12th

ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY

TUITION: $22,260 (need-based assistance available)

RATIO: 775 (combined; 2018-2019)/10:1

BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 655/7:1

RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Catholic

RELIGION/SPECIALTY: nondenominational

BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Trinity Christian Academy

BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: after only

St. Benedict at Auburndale High School

Memphis University School 6191 Park, 38119 260-1300 musowls.org

New Hope Christian Academy 3000 University St., 38127 358-3183 newhopememphis.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: Age 3 years-6th TUITION: $12,500 (financial assistance available and need-based on a sliding scale) ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 400/11:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: nondenominational Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: after only, K-6th

Northpoint Christian School 7400 Getwell Rd., Southaven, MS, 38672 662-349-3096 ncstrojans.com STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: PK3-12th TUITION: $6,950-$10,325 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 995/5:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Our Lady of Perpetual Help 8151 Poplar, Germantown, 38138 753-1181 olphowls.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: PK-8th ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 215/1:11 BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

8250 Varnavas at Germantown Pkwy., Cordova, 38016 260-2840 sbaeagles.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: 9th-12th TUITION: $12,000-$12,600 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 500/16:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Catholic BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: no

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School 2100 N. Germantown Pkwy., Cordova, TN 38016 388-7321 sfawolves.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: Age 2-8th ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 430/14:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Catholic BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

St. George’s Independent School COLLIERVILLE CAMPUS 1880 Wolf River Blvd., Collierville 38017 457-2000 sgis.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: 6th-12th GERMANTOWN CAMPUS 8250 Poplar, 38138 261-2300 GRADES: PK-5th

ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 550/15:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: nondenominational Christian

10 Windy City Rd., Jackson, TN 38305 731-668-8500 tcalions.com STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: Age 6 weeks-12th TUITION: $6,075 - $10,500 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 650/9:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: interdenominational Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes (including

holidays)

Westminster Academy 2520 Ridgeway Rd., 38119 380-9192 wamemphis.com STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: JK-12th TUITION: $7,435-$14,119 ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 433/6:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Classical Christian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

Woodland Presbyterian School 5217 Park, 38119 685-0976 woodlandschool.org STUDENT BODY: co-ed GRADES: Age 2-8th TUITION: $4,180-$15,250 (tuition assistance available) ENROLLMENT/STUDENT-FACULTY RATIO: 340/7:1 RELIGION/SPECIALTY: Presbyterian BEFORE- AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE: yes

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A RT I S T. CHEERLEADER. S C I E N T I S T. She gets to be all of these things at Harding.

Schedule a Tour SR. K–GRADE 12 (1100 Cherry Road)

6 WEEKS–JR. K

(1106 Colonial Road)

901-767-4494 | HARDINGLIONS.ORG

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We help students

THRIVE

EVEN DURING CHALLENGING TIMES

Lausanne continues to ensure its joyful and challenging learning environment keeps our students, staff and families safe.

Check out our Virtual Admission Center today to see why our co-educational, PK through 12th grade East Memphis campus is the best place for your child to thrive. Visit lausanneschool.com/planavisit today.

1381 West Massey Road, Memphis, TN 901.474.1030 | admission@lausanneschool.com | lausanneschool.com

THIS IS

IGNITING YOUR POSSIBILITIES

Fo r Bo ys in Grades 7- 1 2 • mu so w ls.o rg

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Serving boys from 2 years-old through 6th grade • 901.842.4600 • pdsmemphis.org

BE SEEN. BE CELEBRATED. BELONG.

Are you looking for more in a school?

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September 25, 2021 All Grades PK2-12

“Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.”

– St. Catherine of Siena

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Visit

sgis.org

At St. George’s, the way we weave it all together is what sets your child apart.

RSVP for a VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE on October 19, November 14 or November 17 at sgis.org/visit. You may schedule a campus tour anytime!

Woodland combines small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and personalized instruction to help grow your child’s success.

Call 901-685-0976 to schedule a tour, or email admissionswoodlandschool.org.

A co-ed, 2-year-old – 8th grade independent school in the heart of East Memphis. woodlandschool.org ©2019 Woodland Presbyterian School. All rights reserved.

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Our goal is to provide a superior educational experience for girls age 2 years old through 12th grade. For 175 years, we’ve encouraged and enabled each student to reach her individual potential. St. Mary’s promotes the development of honest, compassionate, and confident girls and young women who excel not only in academics but also in athletics, the arts, community service, and leadership.

For girls. For life. For 175 years.

60 Perkins Extended | Memphis, TN | (901) 537-1405 | www.stmarysschool.org St. Mary’s does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ethnic or national origin in admission or in any other activities or programs of the School.

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THEY AREN’T LITTLE FOR A LIFETIME. But while they are, Westminster Academy prepares them for the future.

At Westminster, our teachers care about their students growing not just academically, but also, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Our small class sizes, unique curriculum, and emphasis on exploration will develop your child into a life-long learner.

THE EDUCATION FOR A LIFETIME JK-12 | CLASSICAL | CHRISTIAN | INDEPENDENT 901.380.9192 | WAMEMPHIS.COM

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Celebrate Your Company’s Milestone

Contemporary Media, locally owned publishers of Memphis magazine, the Memphis Flyer, and more, are proud to offer book publishing for your company.

We produce the finest quality books through our Creative Content division for many of the Memphis area’s leading businesses.

For additional information or to discuss the creation of your book or other custom content for your brand, please contact: Jeffrey A. Goldberg | 901.606.7542 | goldberg@contemporary-media.com

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S P O N S O R E D

C O N T E N T

GO RED FOR WOMEN T

he American Heart Association’s famous luncheon event returns to the Mid-South.

After nearly two years away from in-person events, today the American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, announced the 2021 Go Red for Women® Luncheon will return to the Mid-South at the Graceland Exhibition Center on September 30th.

Doors open at 10:30 a.m. with a health and wellness expo featuring CPR training, blood pressure screenings, a stroke simulator, financial literacy information, as well as fashion and lifestyle booths from local and national brands. The luncheon will begin at 11:45 a.m. along with an inspirational and informative story featuring a surprise local Memphian’s battle with heart disease, all culminating with the celebrated survivor fashion show, sponsored by Dillard’s.

New to the Mid-South Go Red for Women movement is the Women of Impact campaign.

This year the American Heart Association, Mid-South is honoring 20 local women who have been nominated for their leadership and commitment to making a positive impact and improving the well-being of their community.

Nominations for the 2022 class of Women of Impact are available now at heart.org/ midsouth.

The fight to end heart disease and stroke in women has never stopped, and since the last in-person luncheon event in June 2019, the American Heart Association has remained committed to raising awareness of the number-one killer of women — cardiovascular disease — and funding lifesaving research for women’s heart health. Today, the signature women’s movement serves as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women —

globally, and right here in our neighborhood.

“There’s something about the energy that builds when we meet in person for this movement and we’re looking forward to be being able to see one another and continue raising funds for this worthy cause,” says Susan Springfield, 2021 Mid-South Go Red for Women chair, and First Horizon Bank Chief Credit Officer.

“It’s not just about wearing red. It’s not just about sharing heart-health facts. It’s about all women standing together with Go Red for Women — because one in three women die from cardiovascular diseases and losing even one woman is too many,” says Springfield, who agreed to lead the campaign after being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder, last year.

“I’m grateful that I knew the signs and symptoms to look for and got to the hospital

in time to be treated,” she says. “Our goal is to raise funds that stay right here in Memphis for critical research and programs, but it is just as important to empower Mid-South women to be their own advocate and take charge of their heart-health.”

Go Red for Women is entering its 17th year, and while significant progress has been made in the fight against heart disease and stroke, the simple fact is that cardiovascular disease claims the lives of more women than all forms of cancer — combined. This year, the AHA is focusing on ensuring that all women are aware as well as working to close gender and ethnicity gaps in research, access to healthcare, and STEM fields.

Ensuring more women are at the forefront of developing science, technology, education, and math (STEM) solutions has never been more imperative. America’s STEM workforce is at the forefront for patent creation, science, research, and innovation that is vital to today’s economy and tomorrow’s future. From the chemistry of cosmetics to the technology of e-commerce; from the way we communicate to the way we consume information and so much more — our daily lives are built on a STEM foundation. Unfortunately, a troubling gender gap exists in STEM, from the lack of women pursuing STEM-related degrees to the number of women serving in STEM careers. Opportunities are lacking for too many bright young women of diverse backgrounds.

In 2022, the American Heart Association, Mid-South is launching a new program to

The price of cardio-

Research shows

ILLUSTRATION BY TAWATDCHAI MUELAE | DREAMSTIME

Memphis movement reconnects women in person to fight heart disease and stroke.

WOMEN AND CVD Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number-one killer of women. It claims more women’s lives than all forms of cancer combined.

The American Heart Association recently noted an alarming decline in awareness that cardiovascular disease is the number-one killer of women – and too many women, particularly our youngest, most diverse women, remain unaware.

vascular disease is high and 1 in 3 women will pay that price with their life.

Women, but espe-

cially Blacks and Hispanic women, are disproportionally impacted by heart disease and stroke.

heart attacks are on the rise in younger women and new data from a study published in Circulation suggests younger generations of women, Gen Z and Millennials, are less likely to be

aware of their greatest health threat, including knowing the warning signs of heart attacks and strokes. That’s why it’s important for all women to take charge of their heart health and encourage others to do the same.

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close these opportunity gaps. STEM Goes Red is designed to provide young girls insights into the possibilities and potential they possess to make a real impact on the world around them.

OUR GOALS ARE TO:

◗ Engage young women and mentors in STEM Goes Red. ◗ Increase the number of women pursuing STEM degrees in higher education. ◗ Close the gender gap in STEM jobs. ◗ Arm students with tools and resources to experience good health and well-being.

STEM Goes Red will feature a day-long event in Spring 2022 aimed at inspiring an extraordinary group of local middle-school girls to explore STEM outside the classroom while also learning how to take charge of

their health and well-being through Go Red. Students, mentors, and professional attendees have the opportunity to gain insight from leading innovators on industry trends, network and make memorable connections with others, and fight the number-one killer of women — heart disease.

Now, more than ever, it is important to realize that cardiovascular disease knows no borders and remains the leading global cause of death with nearly 18.6 million deaths in 2019. That number is expected to rise to more than 23.6 million by 2030.

Since 2004, Go Red for Women has had a profound impact on women’s health. As the trusted, passionate, and relevant force to eradicate heart disease and stroke, through the Go Red for Women movement, the American Heart Association remains steadfast and committed to meeting the

comprehensive health needs of women — at every life stage.

G o Red for Women is nat iona l ly sponsored by CVS Health, and the MidSouth Go Red for Women movement is lo ca l ly sp onsored by Encompass Hea lt h , Fi r st Hor i zon Fou nd at ion , Metho d ist L e B on heu r Hea lthcare , Caesars Entertainment, Ring Container Technolog ies, Tur ner Constr uction, Regional One Health, and Bobbi and Jerry Gillis. Official Go Red for Women media sponsors include Memphis magazine, FOX 13 News, La Prensa Latina Media, FM100, 4Memphis magazine, and national brand inf luencer Alexandra Nicole.

When considered

Today, nearly half of Americans have some form of heart disease. That number increases for Black (60.1%) and Hispanic (57.1%) populations.

For more information or to volunteer, reach out to kate.staggs@heart.org or visit memphisgored.heart.org.

GO RED FOR WOMEN STATS AND FACTS Heart disease remains the number-one cause of death in the United States.

Here in Shelby County, nearly 20 percent of all deaths are due to heart disease.

Coronary heart disease accounted for approximately 13 percent of deaths in the United States in 2017, causing 365,914 deaths.

Someone in the

United States has a stroke every 40 seconds on average.

separately from other cardiovascular diseases, stroke ranks number five among all causes of death in the US, causing 146,383 deaths in 2017.

That’s about one in every 19 deaths in the United States.

The American

Heart Association has funded more than $4.5 billion in research since 1949 and funds more research into cardiovascular diseases and stroke than any other private notfor-profit organization except for the federal government.

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

DEAR VANCE: I recently came across a reference to the Jefferson Theatre in Memphis, and I had never heard of such a place. Where was it, and what happened to it?

— G.L ., MEMPHIS.

DEAR G.L.: Any talk of theaters in Memphis — whether

you mean the motion-picture variety, vaudeville houses, or traditional performance venues — quickly turns up the landmarks: the Malco (now the Orpheum), Loew’s Palace and Loew’s State, and the Warner, all of them located within blocks of each other Downtown. Keep the conversation going, and invariably people will recall places their parents or grandparents took them: the Crosstown, Plaza, Park, and others. Those of you — and you know who you are — who visited a certain adult establishment on Summer could look up and see that it had once been home to the Luciann Theatre, a sister to the Rosemary on Jackson.

But the Jefferson? That one rarely comes to mind, and here’s why: First of all, it was quite old, opening in 1908.

But the name also confuses people because it wasn’t located on Jefferson Avenue, as you might expect, but at 291 Madison, and it wasn’t even named for Thomas Jefferson, as you also might expect. The owners — and don’t ask me to name them, because I never determined who they were — decided to name their new venture after the noted American actor Joseph Jefferson (18291905), who had recently died.

I’m not going to go off on a tangent here and talk

about him, except to mention that Jefferson enjoyed a remarkable career. Though he spent the last 50 years of his life as an actor, he played only one character: Rip Van Winkle, whom he portrayed in plays and early silent movies. In fact, this may sound lazy of me, but I’ll just quote Wikipedia: “Jefferson essentially created no new character after 1865, except for minor parts. He was known as a one-part actor. The public never wearied of his one masterpiece.”

The Lauderdale Library has a very rare (and fragile) item, an 18-page program for one of the first shows presented at the Jefferson. Dated February 22, 1909, it was given to anyone attending a play titled The Heir to the Hoorah, described as “Paul Armstrong’s Sensational Comedy Success” and “A Tremendous Hit in Every City in the Country.” The Chicago Post said the play “captures the liking at the very start and holds it to the very end.”

The Milwaukee Free Press proclaimed it “wholesome, human, and hearty,” and the New York Herald simply declared it “A BIG HIT.” Jaded though I am, I must admit the play intrigued me. After a diligent internet search that consumed 15 minutes of my precious time, I found very little about it (although a silent movie version came out in 1915). Just look at the cast, which includes such curious characters as Madam Berton, General Berton, Claire (their daughter), Raoul (their son), Sophie Chaponniere, Valentine Favre, Paul Sylvaine, and “Kleschna, known as Mon. Garnier.” That Kleschna sounds like trouble to me.

Let me say right here that we sometimes give writing tests to anyone seeking employment at our magazine, and I think we should ask them to write a short story incorporating all of these characters. Ready? You have a half-hour.

The program doesn’t give a synopsis of this “sensational comedy success,” but I’ll let you draw your own conclusions by the list of acts: Act I: Kleschna’s lodgings in the Rue de Clichy, Paris Act II: Sylvaine’s study, the same night Act III: The same, the next morning Act IV: Kleschna’s lodgings, night Act V: Reichman’s Lettuce Farm, Austria. Three years later.

My goodness, most of the play takes place overnight in Paris, and then, three years later, everything concludes at a lettuce farm in Austria. Oops, I just gave away the ending, didn’t I? So, what was it like to attend a play in those days at the Jefferson? The floorplan, included in the old program, shows a massive stage facing an auditorium that seated 1,400 theatergoers, with two balconies and eight private boxes. Between acts, and during intermission, the men could visit two “Retiring Rooms” and the women could do the same in a pair of “Ladies Parlors,” or everyone could mingle with friends in a spacious lobby.

Toilets were located on every level, but the only “snack”

THEATER PROGRAM COURTESY LAUDERDALE COLLECTION; FIRE PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY BENJAMIN L. HOOKS CENTRAL LIBRARY

BY VANCE L AUDERDALE

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available came from “a fountain of running iced water in the foyer.”

For this privilege patrons paid a “scale of prices” for tickets, which ranged from 10 cents for a gallery seat during a matinee, to $1.00 for one of the “Lower Box Seats.

Those tickets, by the way, were available at the door or at a ticket sales office in the Pantaze Drug Stores around town.

And you could certainly expect first-class treatment at the Jefferson. The program makes that very clear: “Any inattention or incivility on the part of employees should be reported to the manager.”

What’s more, “The management requests that patrons Wait — did he say Lyric? Yes. It didn’t help that offer no gratuities to employees.” the building on Madison kept changing its name over That management was none other than A.B. Morthe years, becoming the Lyric just three years after it rison, whose name turns up in any story about oldopened as the Jefferson. It apparently didn’t matter time amusements in Memphis. He was the manager that Memphis already had another Lyric Theatre, this of East End Park, this city’s sprawling amusement one located on Adams, and a Lyceum Theatre, just park, hailed as “The Coney Island of the South,” two blocks away. located where Overton Square stands today. In the Just to add to the confusion, in its last years, the buildearly 1900s he also ran the Jefferson, and later the ing became the Mazda Theater. No, it wasn’t named Orpheum, theaters. In Memphis Memoirs, after the car company, but a fraternal noted historian Paul Coppock wrote, order known as the Mazda Grotto.

The management “Morrison was either one of the best By this time, the building was used was none other than theater men in Memphis, or had the mainly for public events like boxing A.B. Morrison, whose largest number of admirers, or both. matches and political rallies. In his fine He brought in top names, but he was book, Memphis Movie Th eatres, Vincent name turns up in any hired away to Main Street” — meanAstor noted, “Several significant events story about old-time ing, the Orpheum. took place there, including the first radio So what happened to the Jefferson, amusements in Memphis. broadcast of opera in Memphis and a and why didn’t it last longer than it did? controversial run of King of Kings during For one thing, even though it was just three blocks from its film and broadcast years.” (Astor later told me the Main Street, that was considered “out of the way” in the film itself wasn’t “controversial,” but our cranky city days when people walked everywhere, with little other censor, Lloyd T. Binford, made it so because he comentertainment around it. plained — loudly, as always — that he didn’t think it was an accurate portrayal of the Bible.)

It’s also hard to say how well it competed with the elaborate “movie palaces” that opened around this time.

Even so, Coppock basically wrote the theater’s obituOn one hand, Coppock mentioned, “In September of ary in Memphis Memoirs: “Empty, abandoned, almost for1908, the theatrical menu of Memphis was enriched by gotten, the old Lyric was wiped off the map on January the opening of a new theater on the south side of Mad23, 1941, by fire, probably the victim of a lightning bolt. ison, just west of Fourth.” That was the Jefferson. ElseThe owners had even neglected to insure it.” where in another book, however, he said establishments The site today, where audiences once enjoyed The Heir like Loew’s Palace and Loew’s State “were luxurious, to the Hoorah and other performances like it, not to menwhile the Lyric was a plain building of yellow brick.” tion opera and boxing, is now a gated parking lot.

opposite: A tattered program is one of the few relics that have survived from the old Jefferson Theatre. above: A fire, possibly sparked by a lightning bolt, destroyed the building on the night of January 23, 1941.

Got a question for Vance?

EMAIL: askvance@memphismagazine.com MAIL: Vance Lauderdale, Memphis magazine, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 ONLINE: memphismagazine.com/ ask-vance

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Plant Based Heat Longtime radio personality Ralph Johnson gives familiar flavors a vegan twist.

BY SAMUEL X. CICCI

R

alph “RJ Groove” Johnson didn’t think he’d be getting back into the restaurant industry so suddenly. The former DJ, radio host, and nightclub owner spent most of the pandemic posting vegan recipes to social media from his studio apartment in Atlanta, and the likes started rolling in. Before he knew it, he’d signed a lease on Highland, moved back to Memphis, and opened his own vegan restaurant, Plant Based Heat.

his nightclub days. “I was DJing at one of the top clubs on Beale Street, Alfred’s, back in the nineties, and [Crumpy’s owner] Donald Crump was their chef and kitchen manager. We partnered together over the years, and I learned a lot about cooking wings from him. I’ve come up with some of my own flavors too, but at the start, we worked together a lot and I was able to pick up a lot of the properties from him.”

Harking back to those early hot wing days, Plant Based Heat features two of Johnson’s wing alternatives. Customers can choose from Vings, a soy

like that, to recuperate.” But an encounter with a Morningstar sausage 12 years ago really kickstarted his vegan journey, before the Netflix documentary affirmed that path for him.

“I went full vegan, and pain from injuries I had went away completely.”

The move back to Memphis from Atlanta has seen Johnson come full circle from the nightclub days, with Plant Based Heat setting up shop right next to a Crumpy’s. And he now has a chance to put his own stamp on the culinary path that has been a big part of his life.

“A lot of people might think

Owner Ralph “RJ Groove” Johnson

Memphis Bella Philly

BBQ Brisket Special

Plant Based Heat Classic Burger

“I started posting pictures of my food to Facebook, and the response just went crazy,” says Johnson. “People would be commenting, ‘Hey man, give me some of that.’ The light went on in my head, and the energy from people matched my entrepreneurial drive, so Plant Based Heat was born.”

And it’s clear that internet interest has translated to something tangible. During the wait for my order, all sorts passed through the doors of the restaurant: business people in suits, college students from the nearby University of Memphis campus, or folks who simply wanted some good food. “We opened on June 10th, and business has been really good,” he says. “The response has been overwhelming from everyone.”

Yes, it’s not just vegans who are warming to Plant Based Heat.

Johnson guesses that at least 40 percent of his customers aren’t vegan. And that’s no surprise, with so many recognizable and

appealing flavors on the menu, including burgers, chicken and barbecue sandwiches, and a pecan meat Philly. “The idea was just to provide comfort,” he explains, “and share recipes that I knew. We’re talking burgers, smoked sausages, things like that. I did plenty of research and studied a ton of pop-ups in the area, so I was really able to home in on what people in Memphis wanted.”

For a first-time diner, it’s tough to go wrong with the burgers.

Plant Based Heat doesn’t skimp on all that greasy goodness right off the griddle. I tried the Fye Junt: a thick, smoked Beyond Meat patty decked out with plenty of spicy toppings like jalapeños, vegan pepper jack cheese, and vegan spicy mayo. The masterstroke is the inclusion of sweet heat barbecue sauce and secret PBH sauce that smooth out the high level of heat.

But Johnson points to wings as his specialty, tracing his relationship with the food back to

protein-based take, or fried caulif lower, both available with any sauce, from buffalo to agave gold.

Plant Based Heat has plenty of other goodies on its menu.

There’s a shroom section, with a Memphis Bella Philly, or battered oyster mushrooms in burger or basket formats. Side options feature some of Johnson’s favorites, like street corn or sweet potato tots. “I’m a business person, but I opened the restaurant with the mindset of a vegan going out to eat,” he says. “I want it to be an exciting place for people to come and have a lot of options, even though it’s a little bit harder in terms of prep work with a wider menu.”

Johnson has been eating vegan for a long time now, even if it was unintentional at first.

“I’ve always taken care of myself,” he says. “When I would work late nights DJing, and then wake up at 1 p.m. the next day to get ready, I’d usually eat a vegetable plate, or something

it’s just eating vegetable plates,” he says. “I wanted to bring in a lot of cool flavors, things that I like to eat, to Plant Based Heat.

We’re facing a staffing issue like many other places, but when that’s fixed, I’m also looking to include new theme specials, like a vegan macaroni and cheese, or seafood boils. Maybe some more barbecue options. It’s tough to balance a big menu with our small kitchen, but I want to listen to the customers and bring the flavors that they want.”

And this is just the start for Plant Based Heat. With his brand now firmly established, Johnson is seeking to expand. “This is a franchise,” he says. “We’re looking to have other locations soon, and you can expect to see some of our ingredients and products in stores soon. We’re movin’ and groovin’, that’s for sure.”

Plant Based Heat is open for lunch and dinner, Monday through Saturday. 669 S. Highland St. plantbasedheat.com

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY PLANT BASED HEAT

T I D B I T S

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presents

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The Memphis Dining Guide

FISHBOWL AT THE PYRAMID—Burgers, fish dishes, sandwiches, and more served in a unique “underwater” setting. Bass Pro, 1 Bass Pro Drive, 2918000. B, L, D, X, $-$$ FLIGHT RESTAURANT & WINE BAR— emphis magazine offers this curated restaurant listing as a service Serves steaks and seafood, along with such specialties as to our readers. Broken down alphabetically by neighborhoods, this directory does bison ribeye and Muscovy duck, all matched with appronot list every restaurant in town. It does, however, include the magazine’s “Top 50” choices priate wines. 39 S. Main. 521-8005. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ FLYING FISH—Serves up fried and grilled versions of shrimp, of must-try restaurants in Memphis, a group that is updated every August. Establishments crab, oysters, fish tacos, and catfish; also chicken and burgers. 105 open less than a year are not eligible for “Top 50” but are noted as “New.” This guide also S. Second. 522-8228. L, D, X, $-$$ includes a representative sampling of other Bluff City eating establishments. No fast-food GOOD FORTUNE CO.—Authentic handcrafted noodles, ramen, and dumplings. Opening in July. 361 S. facilities or cafeterias are listed. Restaurants are included regardless of whether they advertise Main. 561-306-4711. L, D, $-$$ in Memphis magazine; those that operate in multiple locations are listed under the neighborhood THE GRAY CANARY—The sixth restaurant from of their original location. This guide is updated regularly, but we recommend that you call chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman, offering small ahead to check on hours, prices, or other details. Suggestions from readers are welcome; please plates and entrees cooked on an open flame. Oysters, octopus, and hearty steaks are among the menu options at this contact Samuel X. Cicci at scicci@contemporary-media.com. eatery in Old Dominick Distillery. Closed Mon. 301 S. Front. 4666324. D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ CAPRICCIO GRILL ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE—Offers DOWNTOWN GRECIAN GOURMET TAVERNA—Serves traditional prime steaks, fresh seafood (lobster tails, grouper, mahi mahi), favorites like spanakopita, pastitso, moussaka, and hand-rolled pasta, and several Northern Italian specialties. 149 Union, The 117 PRIME—Restaurateurs Craig Blondis and Roger Sapp team dolmathes, as well as lamb sliders and pita nachos. Closed Mon. Peabody. 529-4199. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$$ up with Chef Ryan Trimm to recreate the traditional American 412 S. Main. 249-6626. L, D, X, $ CAROLINA WATERSHED—This indoor/outdoor eatery, set steakhouse. Serving oysters on the half shell and a variety of surf GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED around silos, features reimagined down-home classics, including and turf options. 117 Union. 433-9851. L, D, WB, X, $-$$$ CHICKEN—Serves chicken with signature spicy batter, fried green tomatoes with smoked catfi sh, a buttermilk fried ALDO’S PIZZA PIES—Serving gourmet pizzas along with homemade beans, slaw, and pies. 310 S. chicken sandwich, burgers, and more. Closed Mon.-Thurs. 141 E. — including Mr. T Rex — salads, and more. Also 30 beers, Front. 527-4877; 215 S. Center St. (Collierville). 853-6005; 2965 N. Carolina. 321-5553. L, D, WB, $-$$ bottled or on tap. 100 S. Main. 577-7743; 752 S. Cooper.

Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 373-9111; 730 S. Mendenhall. 767CATHERINE & MARY’S—A variety of pastas, 725-7437. L, D, X, $-$$ 2323; 505 Highway 70 W., Mason, TN. 901-294-2028. L, D, X, MRA, $ grilled quail, pâté, razor clams, and monkfish are among THE ARCADE—Possibly Memphis’ oldest cafe.

HAPPY MEXICAN—Serves quesadillas, burritos, chimithe dishes served at this Italian restaurant in the Chisca.

Specialties include sweet potato pancakes, a fried peanut changas, vegetable and seafood dishes, and more. 385 S. Second.

272 S. Main. 254-8600. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ butter and banana sandwich, and breakfast served all 529-9991; 6080 Primacy Pkwy. 683-0000; 7935 Winchester.

CHEF TAM’S UNDERGROUND CAFE—Serves day. 540 S. Main. 526-5757. B, L, D (Thurs.-Sat.), X, MRA, $ 751-5353. L, D, X, $ Southern staples with a Cajun twist. Menu items include totchoes, AUTOMATIC SLIM’S—Longtime Downtown favorite HU. DINER—An extension of Hu. Hotel, diner serves such jerk wings, fried chicken, and “muddy” mac and cheese. Closed specializes in contemporary American cuisine emphasizing local dishes as country-fried cauliflower, cornflake-fried chicken, and Sun. and Mon. 668 Union Ave. 207-6182. L, D, $ ingredients; also extensive martini list. 83 S. Second. 525-7948. L, octopus and grits. 3 S. Main. 333-1224. L, D, X, $-$$ CHEZ PHILIPPE—Classical/contemporary French D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ HU. ROOF—Rooftop cocktail bar with superb city views serves cuisine presented in a luxurious atmosphere with a BACKLOT SANDWICH SHOP—Big sandwiches, toasts with a variety of toppings including beef tartare with cured seasonal menu focused on local/regional cuisine. The breakfast bowls, and build-your-own-biscuits for breakegg, cognac, and capers or riced cauliflower with yellow curry, crown jewel of The Peabody for 35 years. Afternoon tea served fast, lunch, and an early supper. 265 S. Front St. 509-8612. currants, and almonds. Also salads, fish tacos, and boiled peanut Wed.-Sat., 1-3:30 p.m. (reservations required). Closed Sun.-Tues.

B, L, D, $ hummus. 79 Madison. 333-1229. D, $ The Peabody, 149 Union.

529-4188.

D, X, MRA, $$$$ BARDOG TAVERN—Classic American grill with Italian HUSTLE & DOUGH BAKERY & CAFE—Flaky, baked CIMAS—It’s breakfast tacos, shrimp and grits, chilaqinfluence, Bardog offers pasta specialties such as Grandma’s NJ breakfast goodness every day with fresh pastries, sandwiches, and uiles verdes, and plenty of other Southern and LatinMeatballs, as well as salads, sliders, sandwiches, and daily specials. more at Arrive Hotel. 477 S. Main St., 701-7577. B, L, X, $ American twists at the Hyatt Centric. 33 Beale St. 73 Monroe. 275-8752. B (Mon.-Fri.), L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$ ITTA BENA—Southern and 444-3232. B, L, D, $-$$$ BEDROCK EATS & SWEETS—Memphis’ only PaleoDINING SYMBOLS Cajun-American cuisine served here, COZY CORNER—Serving centric restaurant, offering such dishes as pot roast, waffles, conveniently located above B.B. King’s up ribs, pork sandwiches, enchiladas, chicken salad, omelets, and more. Closed for dinner B — breakfast Blues Club on Beale St.; specialties are chicken, spaghetti, and more; Sun. 327 S. Main. 409-6433. B, L, D, X, $-$$ duck and waffles and shrimp and grits, L — lunch also homemade banana pudding. Closed BELLE TAVERN—Serving elevated bar food, including a along with steaks, chops, seafood, and Mon. 745 N. Parkway and Manassas.

D — dinner butcher board with a variety of meats and cheeses, as well as daily pasta. 145 Beale St. 578-3031. D, X, MRA, 527-9158. L, D, $ SB — Sunday brunch specials. 117 Barboro Alley. 249-6580. L (Sun.), D, MRA, $ $$-$$$ CURFEW—An elevated sports BEN YAY’S GUMBO SHOP—Spiritual successor to DejaVu, WB — weekend brunch bar/American tavern concept by KING & UNION BAR GROoffering fresh and authentic Creole staples. 51 S. Main St., 779-4125.

X— wheelchair accessible Top Chef contestant Fabio Viviani L, D, X, $-$$ CERY—Classic Southern favorites MRA — member, Memphis at the Canopy Memphis Downtown hotel.

BISHOP—Ticer and Hudman’s newest venture at the Central including catfish plate, pimento cheese, Restaurant Association 164 Union Ave. B, L, D, X, $-$$ Station Hotel features upscale dishes in a French brasserie style. 545 po-boys, chicken & waffles. Open $ — under $15 per person without EVELYN & OLIVE—Jamaican/ S. Main St., 524-5247. L, D, X, $$-$$$ for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with Southern fusion cuisine includes such drinks or desserts BLEU—This eclectic restaurant features American food with cocktails served with flair and favorite dishes as Kingston stew fi sh, Rasta $$ — under $25 global influences and local ingredients. Among the specialties are Memphis beers. Locally made confections Pasta, and jerk rib-eye. Closed for a 14-oz. bone-in rib-eye and several seafood dishes. 221 S. Third, available in the grocery. 185 Union Ave. $$$ — $26-$50 lunch Sat. and all day Sun.-Mon. 630 in the Westin Memphis Beale St. Hotel. 334-5950. B, L, D, WB, X, 523-8500. B, L, D, $-$$ $$$$ — over $50 Madison. 748-5422. L, D, X, $ MRA, $$-$$$ KOOKY CANUCK—Offers prime FAM—Casual Asian restaurant serves BLUEFIN RESTAURANT & SUSHI LOUNGE—Serves rib, catfish, and burgers, including the 4-lb. “Kookamonga”; also sushi rice bowls, noodle bowls, sushi rolls, and spring rolls.

Closed Japanese fusion cuisine featuring seafood and steak, with late-night menu. 87 S. Second. 578-9800; 1250 N. Germantown Sun. 149 Madison; 521 S. Highland. 701-6666. L, D, X, $ seasonally changing menu; also a sushi bar. 135 S. Main. 528-1010.

Pkwy. 1-800-2453 L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$ FELICIA SUZANNE’S—Southern cuisine with L, D, X, $-$$ low-country, Creole, and Delta influences, using BRASS DOOR IRISH PUB—Irish and New-American LITTLE BETTIE—New Haven-style pizzas and regional fresh seafood, local beef, and locally grown cuisine includes such entrees as fish and chips, burgers, shepherd’s snacks from the Andrew-Michael team at Wiseacre’s foods.

Entrees include shrimp and grits.

Closed Sun. and Mon. A pie, all-day Irish breakfast, and more. 152 Madison. 572-1813. L, D, Downtown location. 398 S. B.B. King Blvd. 334-9411. L, D, Downtown staple at Brinkley Plaza, 80 Monroe, Suite L1. 523SB, $-$$ $-$$ 0877. L (Fri. only), D, X, MRA, $$-$$$

BY THE BREWERY—Breakfast and lunch café, THE LITTLE TEA SHOP—Downtown institution FERRARO’S PIZZERIA & PUB—Rigatoni and tortellini with a focus on Southern-style biscuits, salads, and serves up Southern comfort cooking, including meatloaf are among the pasta entrees here, along with pizzas (whole or soups. 496 Tennessee St. 310-4341. B, L, $ and such veggies as turnip greens, yams, okra, and tomaby the slice) with a variety of toppings. 111 Jackson. 522-2033. L, CAFE KEOUGH—European-style cafe serving quiche, paninis, toes. Closed Sat.-Sun. 69 Monroe. 525-6000, L, X, $ D, X, $ salads, and more. 12 S. Main. 509-2469. B, L, D, X, $

A Curated Guide to Eating Out

M

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 • S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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

8/10/21 11:00 AM

LOCAL—Entrees with a focus on locally sourced products include lobster mac-and-cheese and rib-eye patty melt; menu differs by location. 95 S. Main. 473-9573; 2126 Madison. 725-1845. L, D, WB, X, $-$$ LOFLIN YARD—Beer garden and restaurant serves vegetarian fare and smoked-meat dishes, including beef brisket and pork tenderloin, cooked on a custom-made grill. Closed Mon.-Tues. 7 W. Carolina. 249-3046. L (Sat. and Sun.), D, MRA, $-$$ LONGSHOT—Chef David Todd has something for everyone with a wide variety of international fusion dishes, and a side of shuffleboard. 477 S. Main. D, $-$$ THE LOOKOUT AT THE PYRAMID—Serves seafood and Southern fare, including cornmeal-fried oysters, sweet tea brined chicken, and elk chops. 1 Bass Pro Dr. 620-4600/291-8200. L, D, X, $-$$$ 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.), X, $-$$$ MACIEL’S—Entrees include tortas, fried taco plates, quesadillas, chorizo and pastor soft tacos, salads, and more.

Downtown closed Sun. 45 S. Main. 526-0037, X, MRA, $ THE MAJESTIC GRILLE, DBA COCOZZA—It’s red sauce, all the time in the Majestic Grille space on Main.

Variety of Italian dishes for curbside and takeout orders. 145 S. Main. 522-8555. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ McEWEN’S—Southern/American cuisine with international flavors; specialties include steak and seafood, sweet potato-crusted catfish with macaroni and cheese, and more. Closed Sun., Monroe location. 120 Monroe. 527-7085; 1110 Van Buren (Oxford). 662-234-7003. L, D, SB (Oxford only), X, MRA, $$-$$$ MESQUITE CHOP HOUSE—The focus here is on steaks, including prime fillet, rib-eyes, and prime-aged New York strip; also, some seafood options. 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-890-2467; 88 Union. 527-5337; 3165 Forest Hill-Irene (Germantown). 249-5661. D, SB (Germantown), X, $$-$$$ MOLLIE FONTAINE LOUNGE—Specializes in tapas (small plates) featuring global cuisine. Closed Sun.-Tues. 679 Adams Ave. 524-1886. D, X, MRA, $ MOMMA’S ROADHOUSE—This diner and dive at Highway 55 serves up hot and crispy fried chicken wings, among other solid bar food options. 855 Kentucky. 207-5111. L, D, MRA, $ THE NINE THAI & SUSHI—Serving authentic Thai dishes, including curries, as well as a variety of sushi rolls. Closed for lunch Sat. and Sun. 121 Union. 208-8347. L, D, X, $-$$ 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, X, MRA, $-$$$ PEARL’S OYSTER HOUSE—Downtown eatery serving seafood, including oysters, crawfish, and stuffed butterfly shrimp, as well as beef, chicken, and pasta dishes. 299 S. Main. 522-9070; 8106 Cordova Center Dr. (Cordova). 425-4797. L, D, SB, X, $-$$$ PONTOTOC LOUNGE—Upscale restaurant and jazz bar serves such starters as alligator filet fritters; entrees include Mississippi pot roast with jalapeño cornbread and tagliatelle with braised beef. 314 S. Main. 207-7576. D, X, $-$$ RAW GIRLS—Raw and hot plant-based food alongside cold-pressed juices made from seasonal, locally grown sources. Closed Sun. 150 Peabody Pl., Suite 118. 207-5463. B, L, D, $-$$ REGINA’S—New Orleans-inspired eatery offering po’boys, Cajun nachos topped with crawfish tails, catfish platters, oysters, and more.

Closed Mon. 60 N. Main. 730-0384. B, L, D, SB, X, $-$$ RENDEZVOUS, CHARLES VERGOS’—Menu items include barbecued ribs, cheese plates, skillet shrimp, red beans and rice, and Greek salads. Closed Sun.-Mon. 52 S. Second. 523-2746. L (Fri.-Sat.), D, X, $-$$ RIZZO’S DINER—Chorizo meatloaf, lobster pronto puff, and lamb belly tacos are menu items at this upscale diner. Michael Patrick is among the city’s best chefs. 492 S. Main. 304-6985. L (Fri.-Sat.), D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ SABOR CARIBE—Serving up “Caribbean flavors” with dishes from Colombia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Closed Sunday. 662 Madison. 949-8100. L, D, X, $ SAGE—Restaurant and lounge features daily lunch specials and tapas with such dishes as braised short ribs, teriyaki pulled pork, and the Sage burger made with Angus beef, avocado mash, fried egg, and flash-fried sage. 94 S. Main. 672-7902. L, D, WB, X, $-$$

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8/13/21 5:36 PM

The Memphis Dining Guide

SILLY GOOSE LOUNGE—Gourmet, wood-fired pizzas and hand-crafted cocktails at this Downtown restaurant and lounge.

150 Peabody Place, Suite 111. 435-6915. L, D, X, $ SLEEP OUT LOUIE’S—Oyster bar with such specialties as chargrilled Roquefort oysters and gulf oysters on the half shell with Prosecco mignonette; also serves flatbread pizzas and a variety of sandwiches. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111. 707-7180. L, D, X, $ SOUTH MAIN SUSHI & GRILL—Serving sushi, nigiri, and more. 520 S. Main. 249-2194. L, D, X, $ SOB—Elevated gastropub that serves favorites like general Tso’s cauliflower or duck fried rice. 345 S. Main. 526-0388. L, D, WB, X, $-$$ 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 Southernstyle lunch and dinner options. 150 Peabody Pl., Suite 111.

249-5206. B, L, D, $-$$ SUNRISE MEMPHIS—From the owners of Sweet Grass and Central BBQ. Serves breakfast all day, including house-made biscuits, frittatas, kielbasa or boudin plates, and breakfast platters.

670 Jefferson. 552-3144. B, L, X, 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, X, MRA, $$ TEXAS DE BRAZIL—Serves beef, pork, lamb, and chicken dishes, and Brazilian sausage; also a salad bar with extensive toppings. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 103. 526-7600. L (Wed.-Fri.), D, SB, X, $$-$$$ TUG’S—Famous for New Orleans gumbo, fabulous burgers, fried thin catfish, and specialty pancakes. Now serving Grisanti Crafted Pizza. 51 Harbor Town Square. 260-3344. B, L, D, WB, X, $$-$$$ THE VAULT—Oysters, shrimp beignets, flatbreads, stuffed cornish hen, and Smash Burger featured on “Late Nite Eats” are among the dishes offered at this Creole/Italian fusion eatery. 124 G.E. Patterson. 591-8000. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ WESTY’S—Extensive menu includes a variety of wild rice dishes, sandwiches, plate lunches, and hot fudge pie. 346 N. Main.

543-3278.L, D, X, $

MIDTOWN (INCLUDES THE MEDICAL CENTER) ABYSSINIA RESTAURANT—Ethiopian/Mediterranean menu includes beef, chicken, lamb, fish entrees, and vegetarian dishes; also a lunch buffet. 2600 Poplar. 321-0082. L, D, X, $-$$ ALCHEMY—Southern fusion, locally grown cuisine features small and large plates; among the offerings are pan-seared hanger steak, quail, and lamb chops; also handcrafted cocktails and local craft beers. 940 S. Cooper. 726-4444. D, SB, X, $-$$ ART BAR—Inventive cocktails feature locally foraged ingredients; snacks include house-cured salt & vinegar potato chips and herb-roasted olives. Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Avenue #280.

507-8030. D, X, $ BABALU TACOS & TAPAS—This eatery dishes up Spanishstyle tapas with Southern flair; also taco and enchilada of the day; specials change daily. 2115 Madison. 274-0100; 6450 Poplar, 410-8909. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ BACK DO / MI YARD—A revamped patio space behind The Beauty Shop features rotisserie meats and fishes via Brazilian-style outdoor grill. Dinner Wednesday-Saturday, weather permitting.

966 S. Cooper, 272-7111. D, X, $$ BAR DKDC—Features an ever-changing menu of international “street food,” from Thai to Mexican, Israeli to Indian, along with specialty cocktails. 964 S. Cooper. 272-0830. D, X, MRA, $ BAR KEOUGH—It’s old-school eats and cocktails at the new Cooper-Young neighborhood corner bar by Kevin Keough. 247 Cooper St. D, X, $ BAR-B-Q SHOP—Dishes up barbecued ribs, spaghetti, bologna; also pulled pork shoulder, Texas toast barbecue sandwich, chicken sandwich, and salads.

Closed Sun. 1782 Madison. 272-1277. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ BARI RISTORANTE ENOTECA—Authentic Southeastern Italian cuisine (Puglia) emphasizes lighter entrees. Serves fresh fish and beef dishes and a homemade soup of the day. 524 Cooper.

722-2244. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ BARKSDALE RESTAURANT—Old-school diner serving breakfast and Southern plate lunches. 237 S. Cooper. 722-2193. B, L, D, X, $ BAYOU BAR & GRILL—New Orleans fare at this Overton Square eatery includes jambalaya, gumbo, catfish Acadian, shrimp

dishes, red beans and rice, and muffalettas. 2094 Madison. 2788626. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$ BEAUTY SHOP—Modern American cuisine with international flair served in a former beauty shop. Serves steaks, salads, pasta, and seafood, including pecancrusted golden sea bass. Perennial “Best Brunch” winner. Closed for dinner Sunday. 966 S. Cooper. 272-7111. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ BELLY ACRES—At this festive Overton Square eatery, milkshakes, floats, and burgers rule. Burgers are updated with contemporary toppings like grilled leeks, braised tomatoes, and sourdough or brioche buns. 2102 Trimble Pl. 529-7017. L, D, X, $ BOSCOS—Tennessee’s first craft brewery serves a variety of freshly brewed beers as well as wood-fired oven pizzas, pasta, seafood, steaks, and sandwiches. 2120 Madison. 432-2222. L, D, SB (with live jazz), X, MRA, $-$$ BOUNTY ON BROAD—Offering family-style dining, Bounty serves small plates and family-sized platters, with such specialties as chicken-fried quail and braised pork shank. 2519 Broad. 410-8131. L (Sat. and Sun.), D (Mon.-Sat.), SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ BROADWAY PIZZA—Serving a variety of pizzas, including the Broadway Special, as well as sandwiches, salads, wings, and soul-food specials. 2581 Broad. 454-7930; 627 S. Mendenhall.

207-1546. L, D, X, $-$$ CAFE 1912—French/American bistro owned by culinary pioneer Glenn Hays serving such seafood entrees as seared sea scallops with charred cauliflower purée and chorizo cumin sauce; also crepes, salads, and onion soup gratinée.

243 S. Cooper. 722-2700. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ CAFE BROOKS BY CITY & STATE—Serving grab-and-go pastries, as well as lunch items. Menu includes soups, salads, and sandwiches, such as the Modern Reuben and Grown-Up Grilled Cheese. 1934 Poplar (Memphis Brooks Museum of Art). 544-6200. B, L, X, $ CAFE ECLECTIC—Omelets and chicken and waffles are among menu items, along with quesadillas, sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. Menu varies by location. 603 N. McLean. 725-1718; 111 Harbor Town Square. 590-4645. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $ CAFE OLÉ—This eatery specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine; one specialty is the build-your-own quesadilla. 959 S. Cooper.

343-0103. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ CAFE PALLADIO—Serves gourmet salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts in a tea room inside the antiques shop. Closed Sun. 2169 Central. 278-0129. L, X, $ CAFE SOCIETY—With Belgian and classic French influences, serves Wagyu beef, chicken, and seafood dishes, including bacon-wrapped shrimp, along with daily specials and vegetarian entrees. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 212 N. Evergreen. 722-2177. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ CELTIC CROSSING—Specializes in Irish and American pub fare. Entrees include shepherd’s pie, shrimp and sausage coddle, and fish and chips. 903 S. Cooper. 274-5151. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$ CENTRAL BBQ—Serves ribs, smoked hot wings, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken, turkey, nachos, and portobello sandwiches. Offers both pork and beef barbecue. 2249 Central Ave. 272-9377; 4375 Summer Ave. 767-4672; 147 E. Butler. 672-7760 ; 6201 Poplar. 417-7962. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ COMPLICATED PILGRIM—Quick serve coffee shop, bar, and restaurant all in one at The Memphian hotel. 21 S. Cooper St. 601-909-5820. B, L, D, $-$$ THE COVE—Nautical-themed restaurant and bar serving oysters, pizzas, and more. The Stoner Pie, with tamales and fritos, is a popular dish. 2559 Broad. 730-0719. L, D, $ THE CRAZY NOODLE—Korean noodle dishes range from bibam beef noodle with cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, to curry chicken noodle; also rice cakes served in a flavorful sauce. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 2015 Madison. 272-0928. L, D, X, $ THE DOGHOUZZ—It’s both bark and bite at the Doghouzz, which pairs a variety of gourmet hot dogs alongside local craft beer and one of the city’s most extensive whiskey selections. Open for lunch, dinner, and late-night. Closed Sunday. 1349 Autumn Ave. 207-7770. L, D, X, $ ECCO—Mediterranean-inspired specialties range from rib-eye steak to seared scallops to housemade pastas and a grilled vegetable plate; also a Saturday brunch. Closed Sun.-Mon. 1585 Overton Park. 410-8200. L, D, X, $-$$ 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, X, $

FINO’S ITALIAN DELI & CATERING—The newly revived Fino’s offers the old favorites such as the Acquisto as well as a new breakfast menu. 1853 Madison. 272-FINO. B, L, D, X, $ FLAME RAMEN—Traditional Japanese ramen restaurant serving up bowls of noodles in Midtown. 1838 Union Ave. 779-8666. D, $-$$ FRIDA’S—Mexican cuisine and Tex-Mex standards, including chimichangas, enchiladas, and fajitas; seafood includes shrimp and tilapia. 1718 Madison. 244-6196. L, D, X, $-$$ GLOBAL CAFÉ—This international food hall hosts three immigrant/ refugee food entrepreneurs serving Venezuelan, Sudanese, and Syrian cuisines. Samosas, shawarma, and kabobs are among the menu items.

Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 157. L, D, X, MRA, $ GOLDEN INDIA—Northern Indian specialties include tandoori chicken as well as lamb, beef, shrimp, and vegetarian dishes. 2097 Madison. 728-5111. L, D, X, $-$$ GROWLERS—Sports bar and eatery serves standard bar fare in addition to pasta, tacos, chicken and waffles, and light options. 1911 Poplar. 244-7904. L, D, X, $-$$ HATTIE B’S—Fried chicken spot features “hot chicken” with a variety of heat levels; from no heat to “shut the cluck up” sauce. Sides include greens, pimento mac-and-cheese, and black-eyed pea salad.

596 S. Cooper. 424-5900. L, D, X, $ HAZEL’S LUCKY DICE DELICATESSEN—Jewish deli venture by Karen Carrier, serving up all manner of New York-style and kosher sandwiches. Takeout only. 964 Cooper St. 272-0830. L, $ HM DESSERT LOUNGE—Serving cake, pie, and other desserts, as well as a selection of savory dishes, including meatloaf and mashed potato “cupcakes.” Closed Monday. 1586 Madison. 290-2099. L, D, X, $ HUEY’S—This family-friendly restaurant offers 13 different burgers, a variety of sandwiches, and delicious soups and salads. 1927 Madison. 726-4372; 1771 N. Germantown Pkwy.

(Cordova). 754-3885; 77 S. Second (Downtown). 527-2700; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-4455; 7090 Malco Blvd. (Southaven). 662-3497097; 7825 Winchester. 624-8911; 4872 Poplar. 682-7729; 7677 Farmington Blvd. (Germantown). 318-3030; 8570 Highway 51 N. (Millington). 873-5025. L, D, X, MRA, $ IMAGINE VEGAN CAFE—Dishes at this fully vegan restaurant range from salads and sandwiches to full dinners, including eggplant parmesan and “beef” tips and rice; breakfast all day Sat. and Sun. 2158 Young. 654-3455. L, D, WB, X, $ INDIA PALACE—Tandoori chicken, lamb shish kabobs, and chicken tikka masala are among the entrees; also, vegetarian options and a daily all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. 1720 Poplar.

278-1199. L, D, X, $-$$ INSPIRE COMMUNITY CAFE—Serving breakfast all day, in addition to quesadillas, rice bowls, and more for lunch and dinner. 510 Tillman, Suite 110. 509-8640. B, L, D, X, $ LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM—Serves such Southern cuisine as po’boys, shrimp and grits, and wood-fired pizzas. 2119 Madison.

207-5097. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$ LBOE—Gourmet burger joint serves locally sourced ground beef burgers, with options like the Mac-N-Cheese Burger and Caprese. Black bean and turkey patties available. 2021 Madison. 725-0770. L, D, X, $ THE LIQUOR STORE—Renovated liquor store turned diner serves all-day breakfast, sandwiches, and entrees such as Salisbury steak and smothered pork chops. Closed for dinner Sun.-Mon. 2655 Broad. 405-5477. B, L, D, X, $-$$ LITTLE ITALY—Serving New York-style pizza as well as subs and pasta dishes. 1495 Union. 725-0280; L, D, X, $-$$ MARDI GRAS MEMPHIS—Fast-casual establishment serving Cajun fare, including an etouffee-stuffed po’boy. Closed Mon.-Tues.

496 N. Watkins. 530-6767. L, D, X, $-$$ MAXIMO’S ON BROAD—Serving a tapas menu that features creative fusion cuisine; entrees include veggie paella and fish of the day. Closed Mon. 2617 Broad Ave. 452-1111. D, SB, X, $-$$ MEMPHIS PIZZA CAFE—Homemade pizzas are specialties; also serves sandwiches, calzones, and salads. 2087 Madison. 726-5343; 5061 Park Ave. 684-1306; 7604 W. Farmington (Germantown). 753-2218; 797 W. Poplar (Collierville). 861-7800; 5627 Getwell (Southaven). 662-5361364. L, D, X, $-$$ MIDPOINTE FROM EDGE ALLEY—Edge Alley’s sister cafe at the Ballet Memphis headquarters focuses on freshness for its breakfast, lunch, and happy hour tapas. Closed Sunday-Monday. 2144 Madison Ave. 425-2605. B, L, X, $ MOLLY’S LA CASITA—Homemade tamales, fish tacos, a vegetarian combo, and bacon-wrapped shrimp are a few of the specialties.

2006 Madison. 726-1873. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ 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

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homemade sauce. About as down-to-earth as it gets. 1762 Lamar.

272-1523. L, D, $-$$ PARISH GROCERY—Shrimp? Roast beef? Oysters?

Whatever type of po’boy you want, the New Orleansthemed eatery has got it. Closed Monday. 916 Cooper St. 207-4347. L, D, X, $-$$ PIZZERIA TRASIMENO—Small pizzas baked in wood-fired clay ovens along with a selection of small salads. Menu is soon to include desserts, local beer on tap, and Umbrian wine. 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 181. 308-1113. L, D. $ PHO BINH—Vietnamese, vegetarian, and Cantonese specialties include lemon tofu and spring rolls. Closed Sunday. 1615 Madison.

276-0006. L, D, $ RAILGARTEN—Located in a former rail station space, this eatery offers breakfast items, a variety of salads and sandwiches, and such entrees as short rib mac-and-cheese and fish tacos. Also serves shakes, malts, floats, and cream sodas. 2166 Central. 231-5043. B, L, D, $-$$ RED FISH ASIAN BISTRO—In the former Nineteenth Century Club building, serves sushi, teriyaki, and hibachi. Specialties include yuzu filet mignon and Chilean sea bass. 1433 Union. 454-3926; 9915 Highway 64 (Lakeland). 729-7581; 6518 Goodman (Olive Branch).

662-874-5254. L, D, X, $-$$$ RESTAURANT IRIS—French Creole-inspired classics, such as Gulf shrimp and rice grits congee served with lap chong sausage and boiled peanuts, are served at this newly remodeled restaurant owned by Chef Kelly English, a Food and Wine “Top Ten.” 2146 Monroe. 590-2828. D, X, $$-$$$ ROBATA RAMEN & YAKITORI BAR—Serves ramen noodle bowls and Yakitori skewers as well as rice and noodle dishes.

2116 Madison. 410-8290. L, D, X, $ SABROSURA—Serves Mexican and Cuban fare, including arroz tapada de pollo and steak Mexican. Closed Sun. 782 Washington.

421-8180. L, D, X, $-$$ SALT|SOY—Nick Scott and Brac McCarley team up to provide Southern and Asian-inspired dishes at this Japanese Izakaya. Closed Sunday, Monday. 2583 Broad Ave. 726-4444.

D, $$ SALTWATER CRAB—Offers an array of seafood dishes including boils with blue crab, crab legs, lobster tails, and more, and specialty sushi like the Dynamite or Royal King rolls, in addition to signature sangrias and cocktails. 2059 Madison Ave. 922-5202. L, D, X, $$ SAUCY CHICKEN—Specializes in antibiotic-free chicken dishes with locally sourced ingredients, with such items as hot wings and the Crosstown Chicken Sandwich, and a variety of house-made dipping sauces; also, seafood, salads, and daily specials. 1350 Concourse, Suite 137. 203-3838. L, D (Mon.-Fri.), $ THE SECOND LINE—Kelly English brings “relaxed Creole cuisine” to his newest eatery; serves a variety of po’boys and such specialties as barbecue shrimp, andouille shrimp, and pimento cheese fries. 2144 Monroe. 590-2829. L, D, WB, X, $-$$ SEKISUI—Japanese fusion cuisine, fresh sushi bar, grilled meats and seafood, California rolls, and vegetarian entrees.

Poplar/Perkins location’s emphasis is on Pacific Rim cuisine.

Menu and hours vary at each location. 25 Belvedere. 725-0005; 1884 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 309-8800; 4724 Poplar. 767-7770; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-0622; 2990 Kirby-Whitten (Bartlett).

377-2727; 6696 Poplar. 747-0001. L, D, X, $-$$$ STICKEM—Brick and mortar location for the popular food truck, which offers grilled meat on a stick. 1788 Madison.

Closed Sunday. 474-7214. L, D, X, $ STONE SOUP CAFE—Cooper-Young eatery serving soups, salads, quiche, meat-and-two specials; and daily specials such as Italian roast beef. Closed Monday. 993 S. Cooper. 922-5314. B, L, SB, X, $ SOUL FISH CAFE—Serving Southern-style soul food, tacos, and po’boys, including catfish, crawfish, oyster, shrimp, chicken, and smoked pork tenderloin. 862 S. Cooper. 725-0722; 3160 Village Shops Dr. (Germantown). 755-6988; 4720 Poplar. 590-0323. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ SWEET GRASS—Chef Ryan Trimm takes Southern cuisine to a new level. Low-country coastal cuisine includes such specialties as shrimp and grits. Closed Mon. Restaurant’s “sister,” Sweet Grass Next Door, open nightly, serves lunch Sat.-Sun. 937 S. Cooper. 278-0278. D, SB, X, $-$$$ TAMBOLI’S PASTA & PIZZA—Pasta-maker Miles Tamboli whips up Italian soul food with seasonal menus featuring dishes like crispy fried chicken or creamy bucatini with pecorino cheese. Serves dinner Tuesday-Saturday. Pizza only menu after 9pm. 1761 Madison.

410-8866. D, X, $-$$

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

TSUNAMI—Features Pacific Rim cuisine (Asia, Australia, South Pacific, etc.); also a changing “small plate” menu.

Chef Ben Smith is a Cooper-Young pioneer. Specialties include Asian nachos and roasted sea bass. Closed Sunday. 928 S. Cooper. 274-2556. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ ZINNIE’S—Dive bar classic reopens with a makeover and signature Zinnaloni sandwich. 1688 Madison. 726-5004. L, D, X, $

SOUTH MEMPHIS (INCLUDES

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

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

383-1122. L, D, X, $-$$ CURRY BOWL—Specializes in Southern Indian cuisine, serving Tandoori chicken, biryani, tikka masala, and more. Weekend buffet. 4141 Hacks Cross Rd. 207-6051. L, D, $ DELTA’S KITCHEN—The premier restaurant at The Guest House at Graceland serves Elvis-inspired dishes — like Nutella and Peanut Butter Crepes for breakfast — and upscale Southern cuisine — including lamb chops and shrimp and grits — for dinner.

3600 Elvis Presley Blvd. 443-3000. B, D, X, $-$$$ DWJ KOREAN BARBECUE—This authentic Korean eatery serves kimbap, barbecued beef short ribs, rice and noodles dishes, and hot pots and stews. 3750 Hacks Cross Rd., Suite 101. 746-8057; 2156 Young. 207-6204. L, D, $-$$ 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 Monday. 998 Mississippi Blvd. 507-1519. L, D, $ HERNANDO’S HIDEAWAY–No one cares how late it gets; not at Hernando’s Hideaway. Live music, killer happy hour, and plenty of bar fare at this South Memphis hang. 3210 Old Hernando Rd. 917-982-1829. L, D, $ INTERSTATE BAR-B-Q—Specialties include chopped pork-shoulder sandwiches, ribs, hot wings, spaghetti, chicken, and turkey. 2265 S. Third. 775-2304; 150 W. Stateline Rd. (Southaven).

662-393-5699. L, D, X, $-$$ JIM & SAMELLA’S—It’s a revolving menu of soul food delight from Chef Talbert Fleming, with anything from southern ribs to fried tamales. 841 Bullington Ave. 265-8761. L, D, X, $ LEONARD’S—Serves wet and dry ribs, barbecue sandwiches, spaghetti, catfish, homemade onion rings, and lemon icebox pie; also a lunch buffet. 5465 Fox Plaza. 360-1963. L, X, $-$$ MARLOWE’S—In addition to its signature barbecue and ribs, Marlowe’s serves Southern-style steaks, chops, lasagna, and more.

4381 Elvis Presley Blvd. 332-4159. D, X, MRA, $-$$ UNCLE LOU’S FRIED CHICKEN—Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for good reason: fried chicken (mild, hot, or home-style); jumbo burgers four patties high; strawberry shortcake, and assorted fruit pies. 3633 Millbranch. 332-2367. L, D, X, MRA, $

SUMMER/BERCLAIR/ RALEIGH/BARTLETT

ASIAN PALACE—Chinese eatery serves seafood, vegetarian items, dim sum, and more. 5266 Summer Ave. 766-0831. L, D, X, $-$$ ELWOOD’S SHACK—Casual comfort food includes tacos, pizza, and sandwiches. Specialties include meats smoked in-house (chicken, turkey, brisket, pork), barbecue pizza, and steelhead trout tacos. 4523 Summer. 761-9898.

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

388-4711; 2801 Kirby Parkway. 754-0202; 7730 Wolf River Blvd.

(Germantown). 753-4545; 531 W. Stateline Rd. 662-342-4544 (check online for additional locations). L, D, X, MRA, $ LA TAQUERIA GUADALUPANA—Fajitas and quesadillas are just a few of the authentic Mexican entrees offered here. A bona-fide Memphis institution.

4818 Summer. 685-6857; 5848 Winchester. 365-4992. L, D, $ LOTUS—Authentic Vietnamese-Asian fare, including lemon-grass chicken and shrimp, egg rolls, Pho soup, and spicy Vietnamese vermicelli. 4970 Summer.

682-1151. D, X, $

The Memphis Dining Guide 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. 761-9321. L, D, X, $-$$ NAGASAKI INN—Chicken, steak, and lobster are among the main courses; meal is cooked at your table. 3951 Summer.

454-0320. D, X, $$ PANDA GARDEN—Sesame chicken and broccoli beef are among the Mandarin and Cantonese entrees; also seafood specials and fried rice. Closed for lunch Saturday. 3735 Summer. 323-4819.

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

207-4174. L, D, $ SIDE PORCH STEAK HOUSE—In addition to steak, the menu includes chicken, pork chops, and fish entrees; homemade rolls are a specialty. Closed Sun.-Mon. 5689 Stage Rd. 377-2484.

D, X, $-$$ TORTILLERIA LA UNICA—Individual helping of Mexican street food, including hefty tamales, burritos, tortas, and sopes.

5015 Summer Ave. 685-0097. B, L, D, X, $

UNIVERSITY NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICT (INCLUDES CHICKASAW GARDENS AND HIGHLAND STRIP)

A-TAN—Serves Chinese and Japanese hibachi cuisine, complete with sushi bar. A specialty is Four Treasures with garlic sauce. 3445 Poplar, Suite 17, University Center. 452-4477. L, D, X, $-$$$ THE BLUFF—New Orleans-inspired menu includes alligator bites, nachos topped with crawfish and andouille, gumbo, po’boys, and fried seafood platters. 535 S. Highland. 454-7771. L, D, X, $-$$ BROTHER JUNIPER’S—This little cottage is a breakfast mecca, offering specialty omelets, including the open-faced San Diegan omelet; also daily specials, and homemade breads and pastries. Closed Mon. 3519 Walker. 3240144. B, X, $ CHAR RESTAURANT—Specializing in modern Southern cuisine, this eatery offers homestyle sides, charbroiled steaks, and fresh seafood. 431 S. Highland, Suite 120. 249-3533. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ DERAE RESTAURANT—Ethiopian and Mediterranean fare includes fuul, or fava beans in spices and yogurt, goat meat and rice, and garlic chicken over basmati rice with cilantro chutney; also salmon and tilapia. Closed Monday. 923 S. Highland. 552-3992. B, L, D, $-$$ EL PORTON—Fajitas, quesadillas, and steak ranchero are just a few of the menu items. 2095 Merchants Row (Germantown).

754-4268; 8361 Highway 64. 380-7877; 3448 Poplar (Poplar Plaza).

452-7330; 1805 N. Germantown Parkway (Cordova). 624-9358; 1016 W. Poplar (Collierville). 854-5770. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ JOES’ ON HIGHLAND—Specializes in fried chicken and comfort sides such as warm okra/green tomato salad and turnip greens. Entrees include salmon patties and chicken-fried steak. Closed Mon. 262 S. Highland. 337-7003. L, D, X, $ MEDALLION—Offers steaks, seafood, chicken, and pasta entrees. Closed for dinner Sunday. 3700 Central, Holiday Inn (Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality). 678-1030. B, L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ OPEN FLAME—This authentic Persian and Mediterranean eatery specializes in shish kebabs as well as kosher and halal fare.

3445 Poplar. 207-4995. L, D, X, $ PLANT BASED HEAT—All of your favorite Southern-style recipes, but deliciously transformed into a vegan format. Specialties include the spicy fye junt burger, or the chopped n smoked bbq jackfruit sandwich. Closed Sun. 669 S. Highland St. L, D, $

EAST MEMPHIS

(INCLUDES POPLAR/ I-240) ACRE—Features seasonal modern American cuisine in an avante-garde setting using locally sourced products; also small plates and enclosed garden patio. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 690 S. Perkins. 818-2273. L, D, X, $$-$$$ ANDALUSIA— Authentic Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, brochettes, and briouates. 5101 Sanderlin Ave., Suite 103. 236-7784. L, D, $-$$

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The Memphis Dining Guide

AGAVOS COCINA & TEQUILA—Camaron de Tequila, tamales, kabobs, and burgers made with a blend of beef and chorizo are among the offerings at this tequila-centric restaurant and bar. 2924 Walnut Grove. 433-9345. L, D, X, $-$$ AMERIGO—Traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine includes pasta, wood-fired pizza, steaks, and cedarwood-roasted fish. 1239 Ridgeway, Park Place Mall. 761-4000. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ ANDREW MICHAEL ITALIAN KITCHEN— Traditional Italian cuisine with a menu from two of the city’s top chefs that changes seasonally with such entrees as Maw Maw’s ravioli. Closed Sun.-Mon. 712 W. Brookhaven Circle.

347-3569. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE—Offering several varieties of eggs Benedict, waffles, omelets, pancakes, beignets, and other breakfast fare; also burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

6063 Park Ave. 729-7020; 65 S. Highland. 623-7122. B, L, WB, X, $ BANGKOK ALLEY—Thai fusion cuisine includes noodle and curry dishes, chef-specialty sushi rolls, coconut soup, and duck and seafood entrees. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. at Brookhaven location; call for hours. 715 W. Brookhaven Circle.

590-2585; 2150 W. Poplar at Houston Levee (Collierville). 854-8748.

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

L, D, X, $$-$$$ BLUE PLATE CAFÉ—For breakfast, the café’s serves old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes (it’s a secret recipe!), country ham and eggs, and waffles with fresh strawberries and cream.

For lunch, the café specializes in country cooking. 5469 Poplar.

761-9696; 113 S. Court. 523-2050. B, L, X, $ BROOKLYN BRIDGE ITALIAN RESTAURANT— Specializing in such homemade entrees as spinach lasagna and lobster ravioli; a seafood specialty is horseradish-crusted salmon.

Closed Sun. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 755-7413. D, X, $-$$$ BRYANT’S BREAKFAST—Three-egg omelets, pancakes, and The Sampler Platter are among the popular entrees here.

Possibly the best biscuits in town. Closed Mon. and Tues. 3965 Summer. 324-7494. B, L, X, $ BUCKLEY’S FINE FILET GRILL—Specializes in steaks, seafood, and pasta. (Lunchbox serves entree salads, burgers, and more.) 5355 Poplar. 683-4538; 919 S. Yates (Buckley’s Lunchbox), 682-0570. L (Yates only, M-F), D, X, $-$$ CAPITAL GRILLE—Known for its dry-aged, hand-carved steaks; among the specialties are bone-in sirloin, and porcini-rubbed Delmonico; also seafood entrees and seasonal lunch plates. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. Crescent Center, 6065 Poplar.

683-9291. L, D, X, $$$-$$$$ CASABLANCA—Lamb shawarma is one of the fresh, homemade specialties served at this Mediterranean/Moroccan restaurant; fish entrees and vegetarian options also available.

5030 Poplar. 725-8557 ; 7609 Poplar Pike (Germantown). 425-5908; 1707 Madison. 421-6949. L, D, X, $-$$ CIAO BELLA—Among the Italian and Greek specialties are lasagna, seafood pasta, gourmet pizzas, and vegetarian options.

Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 565 Erin Dr., Erin Way Shopping Center.

205-2500. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$ CITY SILO TABLE + PANTRY—With a focus on clean eating, this establishment offers fresh juices, as well as comfort foods re-imagined with wholesome ingredients. 5101 Sanderlin.

729-7687. Germantown: 7605 W. Farmington Blvd., Suite 2.

236-7223. B, L, D, X, $ COASTAL FISH COMPANY—Upscale offerings of international fish varieties utilizing styles ranging from Carribbean, East Coast, West Coast, Chinese, to Filipino, and more. 415 Great View Dr. E., Suite 101. 266-9000. D, X, $$-$$$ CORKY’S—Popular barbecue emporium offers both wet and dry ribs, plus a full menu of other barbecue entrees. Wed. lunch buffets, Cordova and Collierville. 5259 Poplar. 685-9744; 1740 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 737-1911; 743 W. Poplar (Collierville).

405-4999; 6434 Goodman Rd., Olive Branch. 662-893-3663. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ DAN MCGUINNESS PUB—Serves fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, burgers, and other Irish and American fare; also lunch and dinner specials. 4694 Spottswood. 761-3711; 3964 Goodman Rd. 662-890-7611. L, D, X, $ DORY—Chef David Krog whips up Southern specialties with classic French techniques and locally sourced ingredients. Current specialties include pork tenderloin, beef bourguignon, or cocoa-dusted chocolate truffles, with new

weekly additions. 716 W. Brookhaven Circle. 310-4290.

L, D, X, $$-$$$ ERLING JENSEN—For over 20 years, has presented “globally inspired” cuisine to die for. Specialties are rack of lamb, big game entrees, and fresh fish dishes. 1044 S. Yates. 763-3700. D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE—Serves wet-aged and dry-aged steaks, prime beef, chops, and seafood, including salmon, Australian lobster tails, and a catch of the day. 6245 Poplar. 761-6200. D, X, MRA, $$$-$$$$ FOLK’S FOLLY ORIGINAL PRIME STEAK HOUSE—Specializes in prime steaks, as well as lobster, grilled Scottish salmon, Alaskan king crab legs, rack of lamb, and weekly specials. 551 S. Mendenhall. 762-8200. D, X, MRA, $$$-$$$$ FORMOSA—Offers Mandarin cuisine, including broccoli beef, hot-and-sour soup, and spring rolls. Closed Monday. 6685 Quince.

753-9898. L, D, X, $-$$ FOX RIDGE PIZZA & GRILL—Pizzas, calzones, sub sandwiches, burgers, and meat-and-two plate lunches are among the dishes served at this eatery, which opened in 1979. 711 W. Brookhaven Circle 758-6500. L, D, X, $ FRATELLI’S—Serves hot and cold sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts, all with an Italian/Mediterranean flair. Closed Sunday.

750 Cherry Rd., Memphis Botanic Garden. 766-9900. L, X, $ FRANK GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT— Northern Italian favorites include pasta with jumbo shrimp and mushrooms; also seafood, filet mignon, and daily lunch specials.

Closed for lunch Sunday. Embassy Suites Hotel, 1022 S. Shady Grove.

761-9462. L, D, X, $-$$$ HALF SHELL—Specializes in seafood, such as king crab legs; also serves steaks, chicken, pastas, salads, sandwiches, a ”voodoo menu”; oyster bar at Winchester location. 688 S. Mendenhall.

682-3966; 7825 Winchester. 737-6755. L, D, WB, X, MRA, $-$$$ HEN HOUSE—Hybrid wine/cocktail bar and tasting room with plenty of cosmopolitan eats. Closed Sun. 679 S. Mendenhall. 499-5436. D, $-$$$ HIGH POINT PIZZA—Serves a variety of pizzas, subs, salads, and sides. Closed Monday. A neighborhood fixture. 477 High Point Terrace. 452-3339. L, D, X, $-$$ HOUSTON’S—Serves steaks, seafood, pork chops, chicken dishes, sandwiches, salads, and Chicago-style spinach dip. Famous for first-class service. 5000 Poplar. 683-0915. L, D, X $-$$$ LA BAGUETTE—An almond croissant and chicken salad are among specialties at this French-style bistro. Closed for dinner Sun. 3088 Poplar. 458-0900. B, L, D (closes at 7), X, MRA, $ LAS DELICIAS—Popular for its guacamole, house-made tortilla chips, and margaritas, this restaurant draws diners with its chicken enchiladas, meat-stuffed flautas, and Cuban torta with spicy pork. Closed Sunday. 4002 Park Ave. 458-9264; 5689 Quince.

800-2873. L, D, X, $ LIBRO AT LAURELWOOD—Bookstore eatery features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and homemade pasta dishes, with Italian-inspired options such as carbonara and potato gnocchi.

Closed for dinner Sun. 387 Perkins Ext. (Novel). 800-2656. B, L, D, SB, X, $-$$ LOST PIZZA—Offering pizzas (with dough made from scratch), pasta, salads, sandwiches, tamales, and more. 2855 Poplar. 5721803; 5960 Getwell (Southaven). 662-892-8684. L, D, X, $-$$ LYNCHBURG LEGENDS—This restaurant with a Jack Daniels’ theme and Southern cuisine serves such entrees as Bourbon Street salmon, buttermilk-fried chicken, and grilled steak and wild mushroom salad. DoubleTree Hotel, 5069 Sanderlin.

969-7777. B, L, D, X, $-$$$ MAGNOLIA & MAY—The family behind Grove Grill cooks up Southern-inspired casual dining at this country brasserie, with popular menu items like peach gazpacho and low country shrimp n’ grits. 718 Mt. Moriah Rd. 676-8100. D, $$-$$$.

MAHOGANY MEMPHIS—Upscale Southern restaurant offers such dishes as coffee-rubbed lamb chops and baked Cajun Cornish hen. Closed for dinner Sun. and all day Mon.-Tues. 3092 Poplar, Suite 11. 623-7977. L, D, SB, X, $-$$$ MARCIANO MEDITERRANEAN AND ITALIAN CUISINE—Veal Saltimbocca with angel-hair pasta and white wine sauce is among the entrees; also steaks, seafood, and gourmet pizza. 780 Brookhaven Circle. 682-1660. D, X, $-$$ MAYURI INDIAN CUISINE—Serves tandoori chicken, masala dosa, tikka masala, as well as lamb and shrimp entrees; also a daily lunch buffet, and dinner buffet on Fri.-Sat. 6524 Quince Rd. 753-8755. L, D, X, $-$$

MELLOW MUSHROOM—Large menu includes assortment of pizzas, salads, calzones, hoagies, vegetarian options, and 50 beers on tap. 5138 Park Ave. 562-1211; 9155 Poplar, Shops of Forest Hill (Germantown). 907-0243. L, D, X, $-$$ MOSA ASIAN BISTRO—Specialties include sesame chicken, Thai calamari, rainbow panang curry with grouper fish, and other Pan Asian/fusion entrees. Closed Mon. 850 S. White Station Rd. 683-8889. L, D, X, MRA, $ NAM KING—Offers luncheon and dinner buffets, dim sum, and such specialties as fried dumplings, pepper steak, and orange chicken. 4594 Yale. 373-4411. L, D, X, $ NAPA CAFE—Among the specialties are miso-marinated salmon over black rice with garlic spinach and shiitake mushrooms.

Closed Sun. 5101 Sanderlin, Suite 122. 683-0441. L, D, X, MRA, $$-$$$ NEW HUNAN—Chinese eatery with more than 80 entrees; also lunch/dinner buffets. 5052 Park. 766-1622. L, D, X, $ ONE & ONLY BBQ—On the menu are pork barbecue sandwiches, platters, wet and dry ribs, smoked chicken and turkey platters, a smoked meat salad, barbecue quesadillas, Brunswick Stew, and Millie’s homemade desserts. 1779 Kirby Pkwy. 751-3615; 567 Perkins Extd. 249-4227. L, D, X, $ ONO POKÉ—This eatery specializes in poké — a Hawaiian dish of fresh fish salad served over rice. Menu includes a variety of poké bowls, like the Kimchi Tuna bowl, or customers can build their own by choosing a base, protein, veggies, and toppings. 3145 Poplar.

618-2955. L, D, X, $ OWEN BRENNAN’S—New Orleans-style menu of beef, chicken, pasta, and seafood; jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and crawfish etouffee are specialties. Closed for dinner Sunday. The Regalia, 6150 Poplar. 761-0990. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ PARK + CHERRY—The Dixon offers casual dining within the museum. Seasonal menu features sandwiches, like rustic chicken salad on croissant, as well as salads, snacks, and sweets. Closed for breakfast Sun. and all day Mon. 4339 Park (Dixon Gallery and Gardens). 761-5250. L, X, $ PATRICK’S—Serves barbecue nachos, burgers, and entrees such as fish and chips; also plate lunches and daily specials. 4972 Park. 682-2852. L, D, X, MRA, $ PETE & SAM’S—Serving Memphis for 60-plus years; offers steaks, seafood, and traditional Italian dishes, including homemade ravioli, lasagna, and chicken marsala. 3886 Park.

458-0694. D, X, $-$$$ PF CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO—Specialties are orange peel shrimp, Mongolian beef, and chicken in lettuce wraps; also vegetarian dishes, including spicy eggplant. 1181 Ridgeway Rd., Park Place Centre. 818-3889. L, D, X, $-$$ PHO SAIGON—Vietnamese fare includes beef teriyaki, roasted quail, curry ginger chicken, vegetarian options, and a variety of soups. 2946 Poplar. 4581644. L, D, $ PIMENTO’S KITCHEN + MARKET—Fresh sandwiches, soups, salads, and plenty of pimento cheese at this family-owned restaurant. 6540 Poplar Ave. 602-5488 (Collierville: 3751 S. Houston Levee. 453-6283). L, D, X, $ PYRO’S FIRE-FRESH PIZZA—Serving gourmet pizzas cooked in an open-fire oven, wide choice of toppings, and large local and craft beer selection. 1199 Ridgeway. 379-8294; 2035 Union Ave. 208-8857; 2286 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 207-1198; 3592 S. Houston Levee (Collierville). 221-8109. L, D, X, MRA, $ RED HOOK CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Cajun-style array of seafood including shrimp, mussels, clams, crawfish, and oysters. 3295 Poplar. 207-1960. L, D, X, $-$$ RED KOI—Classic Japanese cuisine offered at this family-run restaurant; hibachi steaks, sushi, seafood, chicken, and vegetables.

5847 Poplar. 767-3456. L, D, X $-$$ RED PIER CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR— Owners of Red Hook bring more cajun-style seafood dishes. 5901 Poplar Ave. 512-5923. L, D, $-$$$ RIVER OAKS—Chef Jose Gutierrez’s French-style bistro serves seafood and steaks, with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 5871 Poplar Ave. 683-9305. L, D, X, $$$ RONNIE GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT— This Memphis institution serves some family classics such as Elfo’s Special and handmade ravioli, along with house-made pizza and fresh oysters. Closed Sun. 6150 Poplar, Suite 122. 850-0191. D, X, $-$$$ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE—Offers prime steaks cut and aged in-house, as well as lamb, chicken, and fresh seafood, including lobster. 6120 Poplar. 761-0055. D, X, $$$-$$$$

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8/13/21 5:38 PM

The Memphis Dining Guide

SALSA—Mexican-Southern California specialties include carnitas, enchiladas verde, and fajitas; also Southwestern seafood dishes such as snapper verde. Closed Sun. Regalia Shopping Center, 6150 Poplar, Suite 129. 683-6325. L, D, X, $-$$ SEASONS 52—This elegant fresh grill and wine bar offers a seasonally changing menu using fresh ingredients, wood-fire grilling, and brick-oven cooking; also a large international wine list and nightly piano bar. Crescent Center, 6085 Poplar. 682-9952.

L, D, X, $$-$$$ SOBEAST—Eastern branch of the popular South of Beale, featuring the restaurant’s traditional staples, as well as rotating special menu items. 5040 Sanderlin.

818-0821. L, D, SB, X, $-$$.

SOUTHALL CAFE—Locally sourced ingredients bolster a chef-driven menu offering breakfast and lunch classics. 669 S. Mendenhall. 646-5698. B, L, WB, X, $ STAKS—Offering pancakes, including birthday cake and lemon ricotta. Menu includes other breakfast items such as beignets and French toast, as well as soups and sandwiches for lunch. 4615 Poplar. 509-2367; 7704 Poplar (Germantown). 800-1951. B, L, WB, X, $ SUSHI JIMMI—This food truck turned restaurant serves a variety of sushi rolls, fusion dishes — such as kimchi fries — and sushi burritos. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Mon. 2895 Poplar.

729-6985. L, D, X, $ SWANKY’S TACO SHOP—Taco-centric eatery offers tortas, flatbreads, quesadillas, chimichangas, burgers, and more. 4770 Poplar. 730-0763; 6641 Poplar (Germantown). 737-2088; 272 S. Main. 779-3499. L, D, X, $ THREE LITTLE PIGS—Pork-shoulder-style barbecue with tangy mild or hot sauce, freshly made coleslaw, and baked beans.

5145 Quince Rd. 685-7094. B, L, D, X, $ TOPS BAR-B-Q—Specializes in pork barbecue sandwiches and sandwich plates with beans and slaw; also serves ribs, beef brisket, and burgers. 1286 Union. 725-7527; 4183 Summer. 324-4325; 5391 Winchester. 794-7936; 3970 Rhodes. 323-9865; 6130 Macon.

371-0580. For more locations, go online. L, D, X, $ VENICE KITCHEN—Specializes in “eclectic Italian” and Southern Creole, from pastas, including the “Godfather,” to hand-tossed pizzas, including the “John Wayne”; choose from 50 toppings. 368 Perkins Ext. 767-6872. L, D, SB, X, $-$$ WANG’S MANDARIN HOUSE—Offers Mandarin, Cantonese, Szechuan, and spicy Hunan entrees, including the golden-sesame chicken; next door is East Tapas, serving small plates with an Asian twist. 6065 Park Ave., Park Place Mall. 7630676. L, D, X, $-$$ WASABI—Serving traditional Japanese offerings, hibachi, sashimi, and sushi. The Sweet Heart roll, wrapped — in the shape of a heart — with tuna and filled with spicy salmon, yellowtail, and avocado, is a specialty. 5101 Sanderlin Rd., Suite 105. 421-6399.

L, D, X, $-$$ WOMAN’S EXCHANGE TEA ROOM—Chicken-salad plate, beef tenderloin, soups-and-sandwiches, and vegetable plates are specialties; meal includes drink and dessert. Closed Sat.-Sun. 88 Racine. 327-5681. L, X, $ ZAYDE’S AT THE J—Kosher options at the Memphis Jewish Community Center cafe include traditional New York-style dishes and Israeli fusion. 6560 Poplar Ave. 208-3495. L, D, $-$$

CORDOVA BOMBAY HOUSE—Indian fare includes lamb korma and chicken tikka; also, a daily luncheon buffet. 1727 N. Germantown Pkwy. 755-4114. L, D, X, $-$$ THE BUTCHER SHOP—Serves steaks ranging from 8-oz. filets to a 20-oz. porterhouse; also chicken, pork chops, fresh seafood. 107 S. Germantown Rd. 757-4244. L (Fri. and Sun.), D, X, $$-$$$ GREEN BAMBOO—Pineapple tilapia, pork vermicelli, and the soft egg noodle combo are Vietnamese specialties here. 990 N. Germantown Parkway, Suite 104. 753-5488. L, D, $-$$ KING JERRY LAWLER’S MEMPHIS BBQ COMPANY—Offers a variety of barbecue dishes, including brisket, ribs, nachos topped with smoked pork, and a selection of barbecue “Slamwiches.” 465 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 116.

509-2360. L, D, X, $ JIM ’N NICK’S BAR-B-Q—Serves barbecued pork, ribs, chicken, brisket, and fish, along with other homemade Southern specialties. 2359 N. Germantown Pkwy. 388-0998. L, D, X, $-$$

EL MERO TACO—This food truck turned restaurant serves up Mexican and Southern-style fusion dishes, including fried chicken tacos, chorizo con papas tacos, and brisket quesadillas. 8100 Macon Station, Suite 102. 308-1661.

Closed Sun.-Mon. L, D, WB, X, $ POKÉ WORLD—Serves up Hawaiian poké bowls filled with rice and diced, raw fish. Also offers Taiwanese bubble tea and rolled ice cream for dessert. 1605 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 111.

623-7986. East Memphis: 575 Erin Dr. 779-4971. L, D, $ SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT—Entrees include tempura, teriyaki, and sushi, as well as grilled fish and chicken entrees. 2324 N. Germantown Pkwy. 384-4122. L, D, X, $-$$ TANNOOR GRILL—Brazilian-style steakhouse with skewers served tableside, along with Middle Eastern specialties; vegetarian options also available. 830 N. Germantown Pkwy. 443-5222. L, D, X, $-$$$

GERMANTOWN BLUE HONEY BISTRO—Entrees at this upscale eatery include brown butter scallops served with Mississippi blue rice and herb-crusted beef tenderloin with vegetables and truffle butter. Closed Sun. 9155 Poplar, Suite 17. 552-3041. D, X, $-$$$ FOREST HILL GRILL—A variety of standard pub fare and a selection of mac-and-cheese dishes are featured on the menu.

Specialties include Chicken Newport and a barbecue salmon BLT. 9102 Poplar Pike. 624-6001. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$ GERMANTOWN COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches; Mon.-night all-you-can-eat ribs.

2290 S. Germantown Rd. S. 754-5540. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ KOHESIAN SOKO STYLE EATERY—Korean-American eatery serves up fusion-style dishes like bibimbap burgers or gochujang marinated loaded spicy pork nachos. 1730 S. Germantown Rd. 308-0223. L, D, X, $$ 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 Sunday. 1215 S. Germantown Rd. 751-1200; 6300 Poplar. 623-3882. L, D, X, $-$$ MOONDANCE GRILL—From the owners of Itta Bena and Lafayette’s. Serves steak cooked sous vide and seafood dishes including Abita-barbecued shrimp and pan-seared sand dab, in addition to an extensive wine and cocktail list. 1730 S. Germantown Road, Suite 117. 755-1471. L, D, X, $$-$$$ NOODLES ASIAN BISTRO—Serves a variety of traditional Asian cuisine, with emphasis on noodle dishes, such as Singapore Street Noodles and Hong Kong Chow Fun. 7850 Poplar, Suite 12.

755-1117. L, D, X, $ PETRA CAFÉ—Serves Greek, Italian, and Middle Eastern sandwiches, gyros, and entrees. Hours vary; call. 6641 Poplar.

754-4440; 547 S. Highland. 323-3050. L, D, X, $-$$ ROCK’N DOUGH PIZZA CO.—Specialty and custom pizzas made from fresh ingredients; wide variety of toppings. 7850 Poplar, Suite 6. 779-2008. L, D, SB, X, MRA, $$ ROYAL PANDA—Hunan fish, Peking duck, Royal Panda chicken and shrimp, and a seafood combo are among the specialties. 3120 Village Shops Dr. 756-9697. L, D, X, $-$$ RUSSO’S NEW YORK PIZZERIA AND WINE BAR—Serves gourmet pizzas, calzones, and pasta, including lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo, scampi, and more. 9087 Poplar, Suite 111. 755-0092. L, D, WB, X, $-$$ SAKURA—Sushi, tempura, and teriyaki are Japanese specialties here. 2060 West St. 758-8181; 4840 Poplar. 572-1002. L, D, X, $-$$ SOUTHERN SOCIAL—Shrimp and grits, stuffed quail, and Aunt Thelma’s Fried Chicken are among the dishes served at this upscale Southern establishment. 2285 S. Germantown Rd. 7545555. D, SB, X, MRA, $-$$$ TAZIKI’S—Mediterranean-inspired dishes all made from scratch. 7850 Poplar Ave., Suite 26. 612-2713. East Memphis: 540 S. Mendenhall Rd. 290-1091. Bartlett: 7974 US-64. 203-0083. L, D, $ WEST STREET DINER—This home-style eatery offers breakfast, burgers, po’boys, and more. 2076 West St. 757-2191. B, L, D (Mon.-Fri.), X, $ ZEN JAPANESE FINE CUISINE—A full sushi bar and plenty of authentic Japanese dishes, like Hibachi or Wagyu beef. 1730 S. Germantown Rd. 779-2796. L, D, X, X, $-$$$

COLLIERVILLE CAFE EUROPE—From Italian chef Michele D’oto, the French, Spanish, and Italian fusion cuisine includes a variety of dishes like Rosette al Forno, fish ceviche, and sole meuniere. Closed Sun. 4610 Merchants Park Circle, Suite 571. 286-4199. L, D, X, $$-$$$$ CAFE PIAZZA BY PAT LUCCHESI—Specializes in gourmet pizzas (including create-your-own), panini sandwiches, and pasta. Closed Sun. 139 S. Rowlett St. 861-1999. L, D, X, $-$$ CIAO BABY—Specializing in Neapolitan-style pizza made in a wood-fired oven. Also serves house-made mozzarella, pasta, appetizers, and salads. 890 W. Poplar, Suite 1. 457-7457. L, D, X, $ COLLIERVILLE COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches. 3573 S. Houston Levee Rd. 9795540. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$ DAVID GRISANTI’S—Serving Northern Italian cuisine and traditional family recipes, like the Elfo Special, shrimp sauteed in garlic and butter, tossed with white button mushrooms and white pepper, and served over vermicelli with Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Closed Sun. 684 W. Poplar (Sheffield Antiques Mall). 861-1777. L, D (Thurs.-Sat.), X, $-$$$ EL MEZCAL—Serves burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, and other Mexican cuisine, as well as shrimp dinners and steak. 9947 Wolf River, 853-7922; 402 Perkins Extd. 761-7710; 694 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 755-1447; 1492 Union. 274-4264; 11615 Airline Rd. (Arlington). 867-1883; 9045 Highway 64 (Lakeland). 383-4219; 7164 Hacks Cross Rd. (Olive Branch). 662-890-3337; 8834 Hwy. 51 N. (Millington). 872-3220; 7424 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 417-6026. L, D, X, $ EMERALD THAI RESTAURANT—Spicy shrimp, pad khing, lemongrass chicken, and several noodle, rice, and vegetarian dishes are offered at this family restaurant. Closed Sunday. 8950 Highway 64 (Lakeland, TN). 384-0540. L, D, X, $-$$ FIREBIRDS—Specialties are hand-cut steaks, slow-roasted prime rib, and wood-grilled salmon and other seafood, as well as seasonal entrees. 4600 Merchants Circle, Carriage Crossing. 8501637; 8470 Highway 64 (Bartlett). 379-1300. L, D, X, $-$$$ JIM’S PLACE GRILLE—Features American, Greek, and Continental cuisine. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 3660 Houston Levee. 861-5000. L, D, X, MRA, $-$$$ MULAN ASIAN BISTRO—Hunan Chicken, tofu dishes, and orange beef served here; sushi and Thai food, too. 2059 Houston Levee. 850-5288; 2149 Young. 347-3965; 4698 Spottswood. 6098680. L, D, X, $-$$ OSAKA JAPANESE CUISINE—Featuring an extensive sushi menu as well as traditional Japanese and hibachi dining.

Hours vary for lunch; call. 3670 Houston Levee. 861-4309; 3402 Poplar. 249-4690; 7164 Hacks Cross (Olive Branch). 662-890-9312; 2200 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova). 425-4901. L, D, X, $-$$$ RAVEN & LILY—Eatery offers innovative Southerninspired cuisine with such dishes as crispy shrimp and cauliflower salad, spiced lamb sausage and parmesan risotto, and bananas foster pain perdu. Closed Monday. 120 E. Mulberry. 286-4575. L, D, SB, X, $-$$ STIX—Hibachi steakhouse with Asian cuisine features steak, chicken, and a fillet and lobster combination, also sushi. A specialty is Dynamite Chicken with fried rice. 4680 Merchants Park Circle, Avenue Carriage Crossing. 854-3399. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 115 (Downtown). 207-7638 L, D, X, $-$$ WOLF RIVER BRISKET CO.—From the owners of Pyro’s Fire Fresh Pizza, highlights include house-smoked meats: prime beef brisket, chicken, and salmon. Closed Sun. 9947 Wolf River Boulevard, Suite 101. 316-5590. L, D, X, $-$$ ZOPITA’S ON THE SQUARE—Cafe offers sandwiches, including smoked salmon and pork tenderloin, as well as salads and desserts. Closed Sun. 114 N. Main. 457-7526. L, D, X, $

OUT-OF-TOWN BOZO’S HOT PIT BAR-B-Q—Barbecue, burgers, sandwiches, and subs. 342 Hwy. 70 (Mason, TN). 901-294-3400. L, D, $-$$ CATFISH BLUES—Serving Delta-raised catfish and Cajunand Southern-inspired dishes, including gumbo and fried green tomatoes. 210 E. Commerce (Hernando, MS). 662-298-3814. L, D, $ CITY GROCERY—Southern eclectic cuisine; shrimp and grits is a specialty. Closed for dinner Sunday. 152 Courthouse Square (Oxford, MS). 662-232-8080. L, D, SB, X, $$-$$$ COMO STEAKHOUSE—Steaks cooked on a hickory charcoal grill are a specialty here. Upstairs is an oyster bar. Closed Sun. 203 Main St. (Como, MS). 662-526-9529. D, X, $-$$$

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The Memphis Dining Guide ELFO GRISANTI’S NORTHERN ITALIAN CUISINE—Grisanti family classics like lasagna, homemade ravioli, garlic bread, and Northern Italian pizza.

Closed Sun. 5627 Getwell Rd. (Southaven, MS). 662-470-4497. L, D, X, $-$$ LONG ROAD CIDER CO.—Specializes in hard apple ciders made with traditional methods. Cafe-style entrees include black-eyed peas with cornbread and greens, chicken Gorgonzola pockets, cider-steamed sausage, and housemade ice creams.

Closed Sun.-Wed. 9053 Barret Road. (Barretville, TN). 352-0962.

D, X, $ MANILA FILIPINO RESTAURANT—Entrees include pork belly cutlet with lechon sauce, and shrimp and vegetables in tamarind broth; also daily combos, rice dishes, and chef specials.

Closed Sun.-Mon. 7849 Rockford (Millington, TN). 209-8525. L, D, X, $ MARSHALL STEAKHOUSE—Rustic steakhouse serves premium Angus beef steaks, seafood dishes, rack of lamb, and more. 2379 Highway 178 (Holly Springs, MS). 628-3556. B, L, D, X, $-$$$ MEMPHIS BARBECUE COMPANY—Offers spare ribs, baby backs, and pulled pork and brisket. 709 Desoto Cove (Horn Lake, MS). 662-536-3762. L, D, X, $-$$ NAGOYA—Offers traditional Japanese cuisine and sushi bar; specialties are teriyaki and tempura dishes. 7075 Malco Blvd., Suite 101 (Southaven, MS). 662-349-8788. L, D, X, $-$$$ CASINO TABLES BOURBON STREET STEAKHOUSE & GRILL AT SOUTHLAND CASINO RACING—1550 Ingram Blvd., West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182 CHICAGO STEAKHOUSE AT THE GOLDSTRIKE—1010 Casino Center Dr., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-24KSTAY /662-357-1225 FAIRBANKS AT THE HOLLYWOOD—1150 Casino Strip Blvd., Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-871-0711 JACK BINION’S STEAK HOUSE AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center Drive, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE LUCKY 8 ASIAN BISTRO AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center Drive, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE THE STEAKHOUSE AT THE FITZ—711 Lucky Ln., Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-766-LUCK, ext 8213 TWAIN’S STEAKHOUSE AT SAM’S TOWN TUNICA—1477 Casino Strip Resorts Boulevard, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-456-0711

PANCHO’S—Serves up a variety of Mexican standards, including tacos, enchiladas, and mix-and-match platters. 3600 E. Broadway (West Memphis, AR). 870-735-6466. 717 N. White Station. 685-5404. L, D, X, MRA, $ PIG-N-WHISTLE—Offers pork shoulder sandwiches, wet and dry ribs, catfish, nachos, and stuffed barbecue potatoes. 6084 Kerr-Rosemark Rd. (Millington, TN). 872-2455. L, D, X, $ RAVINE—Serves contemporary Southern cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally grown foods and a menu that changes weekly. Closed Mon.-Tues. 53 Pea Ridge/County Rd. 321 (Oxford, MS). 662-234-4555. D, SB, X, $$-$$$ SAINT LEO’S—Offering sophisticated pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and salads. A James Beard nominee for Best New Restaurant in 2017. 1101 Jackson (Oxford, MS). 662-234-4555. D, L, WB, $-$$ SNACKBAR—Billed as 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, $-$$$ WILSON CAFE—Serving elevated home-cooking, with such dishes as deviled eggs with cilantro and jalapeño, scampi and grits, and doughnut bread pudding. 2 N. Jefferson (Wilson, AR).

870-655-0222. L, D (Wed. through Sat. only), X, $-$$$

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8/12/21 3:25 PM

L AS T

S TA N D

Be It Resolved (Again)

Some variants on what seemed like good ideas at the time.

W

hen the January 2021 issue of MEMPHIS magazine came out, I thought it would be helpful to write about New Year’s resolutions. It seemed like a good topic at that moment, right? The infamy of 2020 was being relegated to a suppressed memory and we were more than ready to move on.

After all, Covid-19 vaccinations had begun being administered in mid-December, the vilest president this country has ever endured had been soundly thrashed at the ballot box, and we dared to imagine a time in the near future when we could re-populate concerts, f lock to sporting events, walk into our favorite restaurants, and send our kids to school.

Right?

I actually wrote this: “At least there is a sense that we are making progress toward some variant

of normal.” Maybe there was a sense of it, but hoo-boy, I could have chosen a better word than “variant.” And I might be in favor of legislation banning the word “normal,” and related variants (sorry), such as “back to normal” and “near normal” and “almost normal.”

But as dawn broke on January 1st of this year, I was as ignorant of what was to come as someone who gets their scientific expertise from YouTube. I did know that vaccines were more than 90 percent effective but I couldn’t

imagine a tribe of rugged insights was this: “I predict many dividualists would decide they people will resolve to be less didn’t want no stinkin’ shots. The stupid.” Okay, I know, go ahead defeated occupant of the White and cackle. Even I snorted when I reread that.

House seemed like a pouty loser but within a week would demonBut what are we to do? We make resolutions because we strate how he was more of an injured rattlesnake want to be better, to We make resolutions do better. We are huready to strike.

Apparently, I had manity, the noblest because we want to creatures in all the learned nothing be better, to do better. universe to ever sabfrom the previous We are humanity, the otage a planet. We four years. have the power of Meanwhile, we noblest creatures in did make progress civilization and the on returning to all the universe to ever sort of superior insporting events in tellect that can send sabotage a planet. big numbers (apolbillionaires partly ogies, Tokyo Olympics), to coninto space even as we melt the certs large and small, and to our poles. We can certainly command the weather to improve, beloved eateries, at least the ones that had survived. And getting right?

I, for one, have a few ideas for our children back to classrooms has been a resounding success, revising resolutions, and maybe right? Never mind the low-wattre-revising them. I am resolved age and/or power-hung r y to encourage forgiveness as long as time has been served and resmask-phobic politicians who actitution made. I’m determined to tively try to prevent protection tip my servers generously unless against a global pandemic.

In fairness, though, a resolua hot beverage is spilled in my tion to elect smarter politicians lap (still, a minimum of 20 perwas never on the list. cent). I shall observe local laws My thoughts from earlier this and ordinances although I reyear also proposed a couple of serve the right to go 5 m.p.h. over other improvements to strive for. the speed limit (except in school zones where I will be strict conLike doing less Zooming, which structionist). at this point seems like railing against the weather. Zoom To cast a wider net, I will not judge. Unless someone is meetings are essentially like the meetings we had before there an absolute loon. Or rude. Or was a Zoom. Or a pandemic. cruel. Or litters. Or overdoes Those early in-person meetings tanning lotion. Or writes real also had windbags, opinionators, badly. Or abuses living things jokesters, and many agenda items (mosquitoes and cockroaches of minimal interest. In this new excepted). Or abuses books. Or age, attendees must still feign gets me to agree to something I interest. These get-togethers don’t approve of. Or fails to take seem like the least aggravating responsibility. Of course if I am encounters we can have stumelected to be a judge, all this bling into September after eight will change. months of an unimpressive 2021.

And, finally, I won’t make any more lists. From now on, I’ll simAt least we can be maskless in ply be living in the now. our sweatpants.

Right.

Another one of my incisive in-

PHOTOGRAPH BY TIM MOSSHOLDER / UNSPLASH

BY JON W. SPARKS

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8/16/21 3:59 PM

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8/11/21 1:34 PM

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8/11/21 1:33 PM