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2026-2027
SEASON
LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST
JOHN WAITE
BRITTNEY SPENCER
Tennessee Shakespeare Company returns for our popular Theatre By The Lake with LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST. Full of comical mix-ups, & hilarious wordplay. Performed at sunset with yummy food trucks on the banks of Lake Appling. One of Shakespeare’s best comedies!
A rock icon. Leader of bands: The Baby’s & Bad English – legendary solo artist. Hits include: Isn’t It Time – Everytime I Think of You – When I See You Smile – Missing You with 330 million streams on Spotify. John Waite…only at BPACC!
Brittney made her Billboard debut with Beyonce on Cowboy Carter! This singer-songwriter loves turning life, truth & wild imagination into songs. Toured with Carrie Underwood. Sang with Willie Nelson – Brandi Carlile – opened for Bruce Springsteen. Check-out Brittney Spencer.
HANNA HARPER
MATILDA – THE MUSICAL
DAN TYMINSKI
SEP. 25 / 7:00P.M. / FREE
NOV. 14 / 2:00 & 7:30P.M.
Hannah Harper won 2026’s American Idol, the first female country artist to win Idol since Carrie Underwood! She captured audiences with her moving song, String Cheese, crossing 50 million TikTok & Facebook views. Her schedule is filled with festivals – 2 Dollywood shows – 3 at Grand Ole Opry. Buy your tickets now. Hannah Harper…only at BPACC!
STEVEN PAGE FEB. 12 / 7:30P.M.
Musician, singer, co-founder of the band Barenaked Ladies. Steven & his band, The Steven Page Trio, sing Barenaked classics like If I Had A Million Dollars – The Old Apartment – Brian Wilson – It’s All Been Done – What A Good Boy – Pinch Me, & more. Catch Steven Page singing the songs we love!
BUY 5 OORWS MORE ESH20% SAV
OCT. 9 / 7:30P.M.
DEC. 4 / 7:30P.M. DEC. 5, 6 / 2:00P.M.
By Roald Dahl, Matilda is the story of a girl dreaming of a better life. Matilda has wit, intelligence, extraordinary creativity, oh, & – “psychokinetic powers.” Sent away to school, the school’s headmaster hates children. Matilda uses courage & cleverness, becoming the pupils saving grace! Great family fun, see why Matilda sells-out world-wide!
ALTAN
OCT. 17 / 7:30P.M.
FEB. 6 / 7:30P.M.
Dan Tyminski left a mark on modern music. He played & sang with Allison Krauss, & he was George Clooney’s singing voice in the film Oh Brother, Where Art Thou, think of I Am A Man of Constant Sorrow. Hey Brother was streamed more than a billion times worldwide! See Dan Tyminski up close…only at BPACC.
FANTASY:
Iconic Irish Band
Earth, Wind & Fire Experience
From County Donegal, no Irish traditional band in the past few decades has had a wider impact on audiences. Altan loves traditional Irish songs. Their music reflects the rich heritage, breathtaking landscapes & vibrant culture that is Ireland. It’s been a few seasons since BPACC’s hosted an Irish band. Don’t miss Altan!
A one-of-a-kind concert blending world-class musicians & powerhouse vocals. FANTASY captures the essence of a live Earth, Wind & Fire concert! Music fans unite with the infectious rhythms, & tight horn arrangements of Earth Wind & Fire’s hits like – September – Boogie Wonderland – Let’s Groove – One Week & more. Dig love, diversity & positivity at a FANTASY concert.
MAR. 4 / 7:30P.M.
APR. 17 / 2:00 & 7:30P.M.
OTHER TERRIFIC SHOWS
HOURGLASS: JAMES TAYLOR TRIBUTE – THE NUTCRACKER – INTO THE WOODS – CHRISTMAS WITH THE PETERSENS WIND IN THE WILLOWS – SAIL ON: THE BEACH BOYS TRIBUTE – LANDON BRYANT – SUPER SCIENTIFIC CIRCUS CAP’N KRACKEN’S YO-HO-HO PIRATE SHOW – BARTLETT COMMUNITY CONCERT BAND – MUSIC BY THE LAKE
901.385.5588 ♦ Box Office Hours 10a.m. to 2p.m. ♦ Tickets & Info @ BPACC.org ♦ Artistic Director, Michael Bollinger ♦ Mayor, David Parsons
FEEL THE POWER, WITNESS THE LEGACY
THE
OCTOBER 1 | ORPHEUM Join us for a powerful celebration of excellence, legacy, and leadership as we honor trailblazers advancing civil and human rights from around the world.
Get your tickets now at freedomaward.org
36 UP FRONT 10
FROM THE EDITOR
FEATURES 28
14 16 18 20 23
OUT AND ABOUT CLASSIC DINING ASK VANCE
B Y VA N C E L AU D E R DA L E
BOOKS
36
THAT’S SO METAL
32
GROWING TOGETHER
68
B Y TO M J O N E S
LAST STAND MEMPHIS WATER
I L LU S T R AT I O N B Y M A R T H A K E L LY
DINING: AN EVENING IN THE PHILIPPINES
B Y G R AC I E D R I V E R
70
CITY DINING
The city’s most extensive dining listings.
On the Ground (and Under it)
This Filipino snack bar will transport you to Southeast Asia on South Main.
B Y JA N E S C H N E I D E R
CITY JOURNAL
80
B Y DAV I D WAT E R S
Peg and Dan Wahl learn and laugh together as they nurture their whimsical and inviting Midtown garden.
B Y J E S S E DAV I S
72
THE MIRACLE BENEATH OUR FEET
The Memphis Sand Aquifer sustains our industries and slakes our thirst, but the ancient resource is fragile to ongoing threats.
B Y J O N W . S PA R K S
BY SE Y NEURINGER
BY MICHAEL DONAHUE
The Metal Museum reopens this month in its new Overton Park campus.
B Y A N N A T R AV E R S E
12
"YOU'RE STANDING ON THE EDGE OF AN OCEAN YOU CAN'T SEE"
SPECIAL SECTION 2026 MEMPHIS ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS GUIDE
SIPS: A STAND-UP GUY
Humor and beer are a perfect fit for Buddy Jones.
901 HEALTH
B Y BRUCE VANW YNGARDEN
BY CAMILLE CULBERTSON
ON THE COVER:
The Mississippi River
PHOTOGRAPH: HOUSTON COFIELD
Memphis Magazine (ISSN 1622-820x) is published monthly for $18 per year by Contemporary Media, Inc., P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 © 2026. Telephone: 901-521-9000. For subscription info, call 901-575-9470. Subscription customer service mailing address is Memphis Magazine, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101. All rights reserved. • Periodicals Postage Paid at Memphis, TN. Postmasters: send address changes to Memphis Magazine, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101.
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SEPTEMBER 2026 We want to hear from you! letters@memphismagazine.com
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
I
INVISIBLE OCEANS
N 1 9 6 1 , William Bell, the Memphis soul singer, was on tour as a vocalist with the Phineas Newborn Orchestra. He was 21, maybe 22, the tour had stopped in New York City, and Bell was keenly homesick for Memphis. He wrote a song about it: “You Don’t Miss Your Water.” Recorded later that year at Stax, the song performs a rare kind of magic trick: Whoever listens to it, at whatever moment in their life, finds the melody and the words grafting onto the truest, deepest heartache harbored within. The song’s universal, but I dare you not to experience the emotion of it with the utmost specificity. In the beginning, you really loved me But I was too blind and I couldn’t see But now you’ve left me, oh, how I cry You don’t miss your water till your well runs dry
I don’t know if Bell was using water strictly as a metaphor, or if he was thinking about Memphis as a city defined by water — most obviously by the Mississippi River, mighty and muscular, but just as importantly by the Memphis Sand Aquifer, the invisible ocean beneath us. I kept you crying, sad and blue I was a playboy and I wouldn’t be true But when you left me and said ‘Bye, bye’ I missed my water, my well ran dry There’s no Memphis, not in any recognizable way, without our water. But as a city, we’ve been slow to realize that the vast re-
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source of our aquifer is not an infinite promise. The pure, clear water flowing from our taps is ancient rain, protected by the earth, and brought to our lips safely thanks to carefully managed processes. Now, I sit and wonder and how can this be? I never thought you’d ever leave me But now you’ve left me, oh, how I cry You don’t miss your water till your well runs dry In our September cover story, written by David Waters (the right man for the job by skill and by surname!), we explore the miracle of Memphis water — and the people working to understand and mitigate threats to our most important natural resource. (If you think a long story about water sounds oddly dry, I challenge you to read David’s words and not experience some new sense of profundity in your next glass of water, your next shower, or the next time you water your garden.)
You don’t miss your water till your well runs dry Speaking of gardens, our Habitats feature this month is actually about the outside of a home rather than its interior; spend some time in the delightful microcosm of one Hein Park couple’s outdoor space. Plus, we give you a first look into the Metal Museum’s new campus in Overton Park (but don’t worry: They’re keeping the riverfront space for events and artist residencies). Interspersed throughout are a few more … tributaries, let’s call them, or rivulets: Our City Journal column this month is a companion piece to the cover story, and don’t miss Martha Kelly’s illustration on our final page in which she looks at a few ways Memphis water flows into different areas of our culture. As always, thank you for reading. Let’s all stay hydrated — and stay grateful for the “miracle beneath our feet.”
Anna Traverse editor
PHOTOGRAPH BY HOUSTON COFIELD
Quality You Can See And Feel IT’S WHY BARTLETT HOME FURNISHINGS IS
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OUT AND ABOUT
The Band Camino
YACHT ROCK REVUE Their PRIMETIME tour promises a return to the smooth sounds of the ’70s and ’80s, inspired by shared nostalgia, the golden age of television, and the band’s own DIY roots. Graceland Soundstage, September 9, 7:30 p.m. 90TH SHELL-EBRATION Celebrate 90 years of the Overton Park Shell with live music by Booker T. Jones, Evvie McKinney, and the Tennessee Mass Choir; a birthday picnic; and homages to past Shell concerts and Memphis music studios. Overton Park Shell, September 11–13. AN ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE Dr. Thomas Stockmann struggles when his community turns on him for exposing an outbreak of harmful bacteria in the town spa. Circuit Playhouse, September 11–October 4.
SEPTEMBER 2026 COMPILED BY SEY NEURINGER
MEMPHIS REDBIRDS BASEBALL September 1-6 vs. Durham Bulls, September 8-13 vs. Norfolk Tides, September 22-24, International League Championship Series. AutoZone Park ALABAMA With more than records brought to the top of Billboard’s country charts, Alabama brought country music to new horizons, and they’re still strumming today. Radians Amphitheater, September 3, 8 p.m. MEMPHIS SYMPHONY BIG BAND Enjoy orchestral classics and contemporary arrangements from the Memphis Symphony Orchestra on GPAC’s spacious lawn. Food trucks and beverages will be available on-site. The Grove, September 4, 7 p.m.
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MEMPHIS TIGERS FOOTBALL September 5 vs. Arkansas State, September 19 vs. UT-Martin. Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. WLOK STONE SOUL PICNIC The 51st annual gospel event offers glorious music food, and family fun. Free and open to all. The Coronet, September 5, noon – 7 p.m. 7TH ANNUAL CRAFT FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL Celebrate the culinary connoisseurs taking food and drink to the next level — visit 35+ local food vendors and sip on curated wine, craft cocktails, and spirits. Brooks Museum, September 6, 5 p.m.
SOUTHERN HERITAGE CLASSIC The University of Arkansas Golden Lions and Alcorn State Braves face each other once more in their ongoing 37-year historic football rivalry. Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, September 11–12. RICKY SKAGGS AND KENTUCKY THUNDER Enjoy country and bluegrass classics from acclaimed country singer Ricky Skaggs and his band Kentucky Thunder. Highland Capital Performance Hall, September 12, 8 p.m. CLUE It’s had its time on the big screen and the game board; now, watch your favorite crime-solving cast come to life on stage to solve their host’s murder before the killer strikes again. Orpheum Theatre, September 15-20. 10TH ANNUAL WLOK BLACK FILM FESTIVAL The five-day event honors new filmmakers and classic productions, including screenings of Sarah’s Oil, Michael (Michael Jackson biopic), Academy Award-winner Sinners, and more. Various locations, September 16-20. KOOL & THE GANG AND PATTI LABELLE The “Godmother of Soul” joins forces with R&B powerhouses Kool & the Gang. Radians Amphitheater, September 18, 8 p.m.
PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE E VENTS
TWELFTH NIGHT In this classic Shakespeare play, multiple cases of mistaken identity unfold as twins Viola and Sebastian attempt to find their way back to each other. Next Stage, September 18 – October 4. COOPER-YOUNG FESTIVAL The neighborhood’s most-anticipated festival of the year brings live music, art vendors, craftsmanship, and more together. CooperYoung Neighborhood, September 19, 9 a.m. FROM FOOTLIGHTS TO SPOTLIGHTS: BLACK THEATRE’S PATH Follow along the journey of Black theatre through the decades and discover how its performers shook off stereotypical roles to step into the spotlight. Halloran Theatre, September 22. ORCHESTRA NOIR: THE CULTURE 2000 TOUR II Enjoy your favorite hip-hop and R&B classics from the 2000s, revitalized and rearranged with the power of an orchestra. Orpheum Theatre, September 25, 7:30 p.m. GONERFEST Goner Records’ most anticipated music festival spotlights more than 30 artists, including both hometown talent and far-flung favorites. Wiseacre Brewery and Overton Park Shell, September 24-27. LOVE’S LABOR’S LOST A king and his friends desire to each marry a princess and her ladies — under the condition that both must stay faithful to each other after a year’s separation. Bartlett Performing Arts Center Lawn, September 25, 7 p.m. DARREN CRISS Theater giant Darren Criss shares favorites from past musicals, productions, and original compositions. Highland Capital Performance Hall, September 26, 8 p.m. ASIAN NIGHT MARKET Explore cuisine, live performances, and cultural traditions from more than 100 vendors representing multiple Asian countries. Agricenter Outdoor Park, September 26-27. LIGHTWIRE THEATER Out of the darkness, brilliantly illuminated dinosaurs come to life in this feat of light and engineering. Buckman Performing Arts Center, September 27, 7 p.m. INDIGO GIRLS You’ll feel closer to fine after you see acclaimed folk rock duo Indigo Girls, joined by 4 NonBlondes frontwoman Linda Perry. Overton Park Shell, September 29, 6:30 p.m
SATELLITE MUSIC HALL OPENS FOR BUSINESS T H I S M O N T H S E E S the opening of a new chapter in Memphis’ live music scene, as the Satellite Music Hall, just across the street from Crosstown Concourse, launches its inaugural season. As a project of Live Nation Entertainment, the venue has been both deeply polarizing and eagerly anticipated — the latter because Live Nation’s command of tour routes that once avoided Memphis will now steer them here. Moreover, the venue is not only partnering with Stax Music Academy to train students, it’s making a point of booking local acts, as with this month’s slate, bookended by The Band Camino on September 4th and 5th and Project Pat on the 26th. — Alex Greene
THE BAND CAMINO This Memphis-born group comes home to share highlights from their newest album, NeverAlways Vol. 2. Satellite Music Hall, September 4-5, 7 p.m. FATTMACK Hailing from Mobile, rapper Fattmack introduces his McKenzie 2.0 Tour. Satellite Music Hall, September 6, 7 p.m.
CHANCE THE RAPPER Join this highly acclaimed Grammy-winner and hip-hop artist on his Coloring Book Ten Year Anniversary Tour. Satellite Music Hall, September 8, 7 p.m. ISAIAH RASHAD Known for his honest storytelling and moving lyricism, rapper Isaiah Rashad debuts his newest album, It’s Been Awful. Satellite Music Hall, September 11, 7 p.m. BOP TO THE TOP Dance along to your favorite hits from Hannah Montana, High School Musical, and other Disney Channel classics. Satellite Music Hall, September 12, 7 p.m. VALERIE JUNE Spreading joy, choosing love and trust, and exploring what it means to be human — Valerie June’s music shares those ideals and more across the tapestry of genres she inhabits. Satellite Music Hall, September 17, 7 p.m. JUDAH & THE LION They’re coming in like a lion for their The Boys Are Back tour, featuring their newest album, I AM A PRISM. Satellite Music Hall, September 18, 7 p.m. HOUNDMOUTH Alt-blues band Houndmouth reveals vulnerability, persistence, biting honesty in their newest album, Lordy. Satellite Music Hall, September 19, 7 p.m. PROJECT PAT As one of the most influential voices of Southern rap, he laid the foundations for Memphis’ rap and hip-hop scenes, and now he’s returning home on his Redemption tour. Satellite Music Hall, September 26, 7 p.m.
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 13
CLASSIC DINING Dover sole meunière with fingerling potatoes and capers
ERLING JENSEN, THE RESTAURANT
HE’S SERVED PRESIDENTS, KINGS, AND QUEENS, BUT IT WAS A CLASSIFIED AD THAT BROUGHT THE DANISH CHEF TO MEMPHIS. BY MICHAEL DONAHUE
Y
E S , C H E F E R L I N G J E N S E N can stick his hand in a pot of boiling water. ¶ “I’ve lost the feeling in my fingers,” he says. “I think it’s from touching hot stuff over the years.” ¶ But 30 years ago, Jensen threw his whole body into something cool: Erling Jensen, The Restaurant. ¶ His longtime East Memphis fine dining restaurant exudes elegance. Diners speak softly as they savor escargot, Dover sole, and chocolate mousse on white tablecloths topped with votive candles in silver containers. The restaurant also features a more laid-back bar area with its own menu and small dining room. ¶ Jensen, 68, can be found in the kitchen six out of the seven days the restaurant is open weekly. “I love what I’m doing,” he says. “And the day I don’t love what I’m doing, then I’m not going to do it anymore.” Jensen worked long hours at the Hotel Jutlandia, sometimes 16 hours a day. “There were no labor laws,” he says, but he enjoyed the atmosphere — pressure and all. And he learned a lot from the executive chef, Jorgen Mueller. Jensen left that restaurant about four or five years later to attend cooking school, and the hotel re-hired him as a sous chef. After a stint at the Prince Hamlet hotel in Miami, working under Mueller, he took a job as chef at the Danish embassy in Washington, D.C.. The fare was, as one might imagine, “a lot of Danish food, a lot of smoked fish,” and the diners included “presidents, kings, and queens.” In 1989, he saw a “little bitty ad” in The New
14 • 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 6
York Times for “a small restaurant in Memphis looking for a head chef.” It included the name and number of Glenn Hayes, who, along with his wife, Martha, owned La Tourelle in Midtown. “I gave him a call and he hired me over the phone. He didn’t ask a damn question.” Glenn, who taught a lot to Jensen, also took him on one of his frequent trips to France. “We ate our way through Paris,” Jensen remembers. He continued to prepare dinners at La Tourelle, while serving as the corporate executive chef for First Tennessee Bank. Impressed with his cooking skills, some people from the bank financed the opening of Erling Jensen, The Restaurant.
For his new place, Jensen carried over some La Tourelle items, but the menu evolved into his own distinctive fare, which included French and Asian dishes. “We have something for everyone,” he says. “Pasta, polenta, veal, beef. Sole from the Dover Straits. Salmon from Scotland.” Some items, including the sole, rack of lamb, angel-hair pasta, crab cakes, and crawfish bisque, have been on the menu since day one. But Jensen is always adding new items. “We want to renew ourselves,” he says. “We don’t want to get stale.” They didn’t have a bar when they first opened. Instead, he says, “We had a patio outside that never got used.” That was partly because the view wasn’t great. “People had to look at our dumpster.” He eventually added a “little bitty bar” and then expanded to the current one, where diners can order hamburgers, pizza, pasta, and half-portions of menu items. Jensen has been involved with side projects over the years. In the late ’90s, he and chef Jimmy Ishii opened KoTo in Overton Square. “He did his Asian-Japanese stuff and I had my French influence, he says, “It was a mix of both.” KoTo closed about five years later. “It had run its course.” About three years ago Jensen collaborated with Pace Cooper and opened “Erling Jensen Small Bites” at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel. But Erling Jensen, The Restaurant is Jensen’s heart. Jensen’s wife, Jaquila, works at the restaurant. Their son, Blake, 12, keeps him on his toes going to football, basketball, and lacrosse games on his off days. Some of Jensen’s employees have been with him since he opened. Over the years he’s hired some cooks, which he knows have dealt with substance-abuse issues. They’re known as “Erling’s Kids,” he says, and he relates to their problems, saying. “I had an alcohol issue years and years ago. And then I just stopped, period. I haven’t had a drop in 30 years.” As for working with his cooks in the kitchen, Jensen says, “They respect me and know what I want. And I get a little pissed off if I don’t get it my way.” Looking back, he says, “When we first opened, I might have been a little hot-headed. But over the years I kind of mellowed.” Erling Jensen, The Restaurant, 1044 S. Yates Rd. PHOTOGRAPHS BY MICHAEL DONAHUE
MEMPHIS MEMPHIS SSCCHHOOOOLL OOFF EEXXCCEELLLLEENNCCEE
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Memphis School School of ofExcellence Excellenceprovides providesaasafe, safe, Memphis collaborative, college-preparatory college-preparatoryenvironment environmentwith witha a collaborative, strong focus focus on onSTEM: STEM:Science, Science,Technology, Technology, strong Engineering & & Math. Math.We Weequip equipstudents studentswith withthe theskills skills Engineering succeed in in the the classroom, classroom,workplace, workplace,and andininlife lifeby by to succeed serving families all across Memphis through our four serving families all across Memphis through our four campuses. campuses.
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Cordova Elementary Elementary K-5th K-5th Cordova
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WHAT WHAT WE WE OFFER OFFER
Dedicated Dedicated teachers teachers&&small smallclass classsizes sizes STEM Focus: Coding, Robotics, Drones, STEM Focus: Coding, Robotics, Drones,3D 3D Printing Printing AP/Dual AP/Dual Enrollment Enrollmentcourses, courses,tutoring tutoring&&enrichment enrichment Free PSAT, PreACT, AP Exams Free PSAT, PreACT, AP Exams 1:1 1:1 Chromebooks Chromebookswith withWi-Fi-free Wi-Fi-freeinternet internetaccess access Career-focused pathways Career-focused pathways Athletics, Athletics, theater theater&&leadership leadershipopportunities opportunities Robotics, Robotics, Chess, Chess, Science ScienceOlympiad, Olympiad,National National Honor Society, BETA Club, Student Council Honor Society, BETA Club, Student Council 4450 S. Mendenhall, Memphis TN 38141 4450 S. Mendenhall, 4921 Winchester Road, Memphis Memphis TN TN 38141 38118 4921 Winchester Road, Memphis 38118 8350 Macon Road, Cordova TN TN 38018 8350Macon MaconRoad, Road,Cordova, CordovaTN TN38018 38018 8360 8360 Macon Road, Cordova, TN 38018
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ASK VANCE OUR HISTORY EXPERT SOLVES LOCAL MYSTERIES: WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, WHY, AND WHY NOT? WELL, SOMETIMES.
GARTLY-RAMSAY HOSPITAL D E A R VA N C E : What happened to the old hospital on Jackson that was demolished to make way for the Salvation Army headquarters? — C.D., Memphis. D E A R C . D . : For close to a century, Memphians have been fortunate to have access to medical complexes that can treat just about anything that ails us. Baptist, Methodist, St. Francis, St. Jude, and Le Bonheur immediately come to mind. But for many years, smaller, privately owned facilities treated those suffering from illnesses and accidents. I’ve written before 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 6
about Collins Chapel Hospital, but others include John Gaston Hospital (now part of UTHSC), Terrell Memorial Hospital, Mercy Hospital, Crofford’s Infirmary, and a dozen others. The largest, and perhaps the most successful of these, was the Gartly-Ramsay Hospital, located at 696 Jackson Avenue. Let’s start with the original building, constructed in 1859 as a private residence on the Old Raleigh Road (as Jackson was originally called) for Edgar McDavitt. Born in Shelby County, Kentucky, he somehow made his way to Shelby County, Tennessee, in 1841. McDavitt started out in the insurance business, then moved into banking, and was extremely successful in both. By the 1870s, he was president of the Memphis Insurance Company, Memphis Bank of Commerce, and Planters’ Bank. Hailed as a “financial pioneer,” when he died in
1885, a eulogy published in the Daily Appeal observed, “The sterling stuff of which he was made could not do otherwise than inspire the affection lavished upon him by a sorrowing community.” I’m sure my half-dozen readers will feel the same about me some day. McDavitt left behind his lavish Greek Revival mansion (supposedly the first private home in Memphis to have a bathtub) and an estate valued at more than $100,000 — the equivalent of $3.5 million today. Now our story picks up in Canada — well, some of it. Histories of Gartly-Ramsay Hospital usually mention that two Canadian physicians founded it. Newspaper accounts say that Dr. Robert Ramsay was born in Scotland in 1881 and moved to Winnipeg, Canada. He earned a degree in nursing at the famous Battle Creek Sanitorium in Michigan before moving to Memphis in the early 1900s At some point along this journey, he met Dr. George Gartley, whose connection to Canada HOSPITAL PHOTOGRAPH BY VANCE L AUDERDALE
A S K VA N C E
(LEF T) An old postcard shows the Gar tlyRamsay Hospital in the 1930s. (BELOW LEF T) A photo from 1990 shows the hospital abandoned and neglec ted. ( THIS PAGE) William Faulkner in 1954.
is vague. He earned a degree from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine, specializing in obstetrics. In 1911, the two physicians purchased the old McDavitt place, vacant for years, and transformed the former residence into the Gartly-Ramsay Hospital. Extensive renovations converted the rambling home into a 50-bed general hospital, with state-of-the-art X-ray equipment and diagnostic laboratories. Judging from old newspaper stories, it was the place to go for accident victims. I was surprised to read how many Memphians who had swallowed poison, fallen off a ladder, crashed their car, tumbled off their bicycle, or needed urgent medical care “were presently recovering at Gartly-Ramsay Hospital.” Even so, the facility had a rather bumpy start. It seems their very first patient — a Mrs. Walter Willingham who had come there all the way from Fulton, Kentucky — required complicated obstetrical surgery. Dr. Ramsay later told newspapers, “She was an unusual case, and treatment for her used up every bit of the supplies we had.” For his part, Dr. Gartly said, “He was so discouraged that he told his family the hospital idea was a failure. But business picked up, and soon all beds were filled.” They didn’t bother mentioning that the patient (somehow) survived their treatment, and afterwards even wrote them a letter of apology! “I am sorry that I almost disrupted your hospital idea,” she said, “but I wish to say again how much I appreciate the splendid service I was provided.” I don’t fully understand the roles of Drs. Gartly and Ramsay in connection with the hospital they co-founded. Gartly, it seems, actually lived at the hospital in the early days, and yet I came across this brief newspaper account from 1921: “Dr. George Gartly announces the removal of his offices to Suite 404-406 of the Goodwyn Institute.” Did he no longer have offices at his own hospital? What’s more, during the early 1920s, the society columns often mentioned, “Dr. George Gartly has returned to Memphis,” without saying where he had been, or why. A scandal at Gartly-Ramsay caught the attention of Memphians in 1923. It seems an operating room nurse married a patient, “while he lay in bed in pink pajamas too ill to stand up.” The groom, a planter from Friars Point,
Mississippi, told reporters he was actually in love “with a young woman high in Memphis society whose name was not brought out in the trial.” It’s all very complicated, but as soon as he recovered from his surgery, he sued to have the marriage annulled, claiming that “while he was at the hospital, he married without knowing what he was doing.” He told the judge, “After the ceremony he got hold of a quart of liquor and drank it, together with smoking all the cigarettes that he could get hold of.” This peculiar marriage, as one might expect, was eventually annulled. Most of the Lauderdale nuptials ended about the same way. The number of patients and staff quickly outgrew the old McDavitt mansion. In 1927, work began on a second building, “thoroughly up-to-date, making it a strictly modern institution.” In 1930, newspapers reported that Gartly-Ramsay would open a sanitorium on the grounds, and other expansions including a two-story building that would house more treatment areas and even a nursing school. By 1950, the hospital began to specialize in the care and treatment of psychiatric patients, “not only from the Mid-South but areas as far away as Florida, Michigan, Texas, and California.” It was supposedly the first hospital in our city to offer electro-shock therapy. Gartly-Ramsay developed such a reputation that in 1949 it attracted an extremely famous patient, author William Faulkner, who was treated there for various problems. This was an important time in his career, to put it mildly. That year he had been awarded the Nobel Prize, though he wouldn’t actually receive the honor until December 1950. Some of the methods seem rather unusual by today’s standards, described in an article published in the September 1993 issue of this magazine, “Getting Closer to Faulkner.” Author Lisa C. Hickman interviewed Dr. D.C. McCool, one of the psychiatrists who treated Faulkner at the time, who recalled that patients were often given a dose of Metrozol, a drug that provoked violent convulsions, after which the patient fell into a deep sleep. “It was a rather drastic but effective treatment for depression at that time,” said McCool. We don’t have any record of what Faulkner thought about it. The hospital ran into problems in the 1950s. Gartly moved to Orlando, and newspapers made a point of reporting, “He has recently severed his connections with the hospital.” It was now under the full control of Dr. Ramsay and his son, Dr. Robert Ramsay Jr. But the hospital was having trouble competing with the larger, better-financed and -equipped medical facilities in this area. They shut down the School of Nursing, and gradually drew fewer
FAULKNER PHOTOGRAPH BY CARL VAN VECHTEN / WIKIMEDIA COMMONS / PUBLIC DOMAIN
patients. In 1955, Ramsay died of a heart attack. Without his leadership, the old hospital struggled to survive, finally closing on New Year’s Day, 1972. The site, complete with the original mansion and other medical buildings, changed hands several times. For a while, it operated as the Greater Community Senior Citizens Center. In the 1980s, new owners transformed it into Jackson Manor, a “congregate-care” facility. “It is not a nursing home,” explained the director. “It will be a homey place with porches.” The Commercial Appeal added, “That means socializing. It means in-house neighbors who might be lonely on their own.” That didn’t last long. In 1998, the entire site, empty for years, was cleared to make way for the Memphis Command Center of the Salvation Army. The Purdue Center of Hope at Jackson and McDavitt — yes, the street named after the property’s original owner — is a recovery campus, offering shelter to women and children facing housing crises. In January of this year, however, the Salvation Army suspended new admissions to the Purdue Center because of a drop in funding. Got a question for Vance? EMAIL: askvance@memphismagazine.com MAIL: Vance Lauderdale, Memphis Magazine, P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 Or visit him on Facebook from time to time. S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 17
BOOKS
HOLY FOLLY
A
M A N T O U C H E D B Y divinity, set apart from so-called normal society because of the truths he speaks, travels the region, standing in front of a new crowd each day, his voice raised in proclamation. His face shines with sweat as he calls on the gathered mass of humanity before him to accept the wisdom he delivers. ¶ This man is, of course, a stand-up comedian on a regional tour. Or is he a tent-revival preacher, bringing the gospel to rural believers? The two archetypes may have more in common than these superficial stereotypes suggest. ¶ Indeed, the roots of modern comedy, as one Tennessee-based author explains, lie in the ancient and subversive custom of spiritual revelation. ¶ Jason Crawford, a Union University professor of Shakespeare, tackles that very subject with his new book God’s Fools: Saints, Prophets, Martyrs, and the Making of Modern Comedy (Bloomsbury). Crawford’s first book, Allegory and Enchantment, was published by Oxford University Press in 2017, and his essays have appeared in ELH, The Cresset, and the Los Angeles Review of Books. ¶ Though the link between Shakespeare, comedy, and religion may, at first, appear difficult to discern, Crawford believes there exists much common ground between the subjects. “I spent a lot of my life thinking about these really old artforms — tragedy and allegory,” Crawford says. It comes with the territory as a scholar of Shakespeare. What he noticed in his study is that tragedy lacks its formerly hallowed presence in the contemporary world. Comedy, however, is not only present but considered important. “Why is it that we don’t have a huge tragedy industry, but we’ve got a massive comedy industry?” Crawford wonders. “Comedy meets religious needs,” he says, answering his own question. “The answer to the question has to be a spiritual answer.”
W H Y C O M E DY ? In his childhood in south Louisiana, Crawford loved writing and telling stories. As a hobby, storytelling eventually fell by the 18 • 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 6
wayside, as many children doodle in their youth but usually abandon the pastime before learning to drive. When he went to college for his undergraduate degree at Louisiana State University, Crawford didn’t expect anything of intellectual adventure or discovery. “I just wanted to get a degree and get a job,” he admits. As the saying goes, though, man makes plans, and God laughs. The young student had an English teacher who radically altered his point of view. “It happened in English class. I was there
because I had to be, but that professor reawakened my love for literature and love for stories,” Crawford explains, possibly echoing a sentiment he has shared with general education English classes in the past. His academic career continued, now on the path of literary study. While working on his Ph.D. dissertation at Harvard (Class of ’08), Crawford had an epiphany, to borrow a phrase from the language of religious enlightenment. He realized that such academic scholarship wasn’t the kind of writing that brought him the deepest joy. “I found myself writing sentences that I was proud of, but I found myself wondering if anyone would ever read them just for joy.
A S K VA N C E
Would my students ever read it? Would my neighbors?” Crawford asks. So he decided he wanted to write a fun book. He wanted to tell a story rather than defend a position. Like many artists chasing their own personal “perfect tone,” he is still working on the balance between an intellectually challenging work and an entertaining one, but the immensely readable God’s Fools is certainly a step in the right direction. As a grad student, Crawford had often pictured a professor or other grad student, an academic ready to poke holes in his thesis, as his reader, so he ended up writing defensively. It yielded highly rigorous intellectual study, though that method was not entirely conducive to a side-splittingly funny piece of scholarship. When working on God’s Fools, Crawford tacked a different course, imagining his friends and family as his readers. “I’ve got small kids, and they make me laugh as much as anyone in the world,” Crawford says, admitting that he hopes they might read his work and chuckle someday. “Keeping joy at the center was a big part of it. I think there’s a kind of trust we lose when we’re writing for gatekeepers.” In other words, one must trust one’s audience — even when presented with the proverbial tough crowd.
TOUGH CROWDS AND MARTYRS The comedian’s job, Crawford asserts, is to provoke, to break rules, and to confess embarrassing things, all publicly and for the benefit of others. “You’re actually making yourself as vulnerable as possible,” Crawford says. “That danger is what makes comedy so compelling.” Charlie Chaplin receives a fair amount of consideration in God’s Fools, with a long discussion of his Tramp character from the film City Lights. Crawford quotes Mack Sennett, Chaplin’s early boss, saying, “Those who knew him best always suspected that under all the charm and performative vitality, Charlie Chaplin was curled up tight around some sort of pain.” The conventional wisdom is that, in con-
fronting that kernel of pain at the center of comedy, the comedian acquires an almost religious transcendence. In other words, the spiritual is discovered through an unflinching examination of the most mundane and material of our woes. “When it’s at its best, comedy is beyond all that,” Crawford says. “We get a glimpse. We are more than all this frailty and all our pain. Comedy has to show us our brokenness, and it has to show us something beyond our brokenness.” In this way, the author explains, comedy charts a path forward past this current moment of discourse fueled by the language of culture war. If social division is the enemy of wholeness, then comedy presents an avenue for
meeting friends and neighbors that does not require anyone to renounce a former religion and adopt a new savior. Nor does comedy rely on the logic of revolution. In that way, Crawford contends, the act of a comic is not unlike that of a martyr. “It’s going to be a power that comes from somewhere else. It isn’t going to be more violence, and this is where comedy is similar to martyrdom,” he says. “The martyr doesn’t prevail by drawing a sword and fighting back. The martyr prevails by saying, ‘I’m connected to a life that you can’t touch. I’m connected to something beyond the scope of your power.’” To put it simply, Crawford says, both comedy and spirituality harness the spirit of hope. S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 19
S S JOURNAL C II P TY
OUR MOST PRECIOUS RESOURCE PROTECTING THE MEMPHIS AQUIFER IS MORE VITAL THAN EVER. BY TOM JONES
R
O U G H LY 2 , 5 0 0 Y E A R S A G O , long before the height of the Roman Empire, rain fell on the dense, untamed forest that would one day become Memphis. ¶ That ancient rain slowly seeped through layers of sand that naturally filtered away impurities while thick layers of clay protected the aquifer from contamination. Today, it has 100 trillion gallons and stretches more than 7,000 square miles. ¶ As environmental reporter Tom Charlier said a decade ago, the aquifer is literally Memphis’s buried treasure. That reality stands in conflict with how growing body of scientific evidence that the nonchalantly it has been treated. Studies show aquifer is far more vulnerable than previously there have been breaches of the protective believed at a time when Memphis has operated layer which could allow young water to leak without a coherent, long-term plan to protect it. downward and enter the aquifer, increasing That reality was brought into sharp focus the risk of contamination. In fact, in the 1980s, earlier this year, when the group issued its Blue drinking water wells in South Memphis and Print: Guidance for a Groundwater Protection Plan. Collierville were taken offline for this reason. The core message is as stark as it is sobering: According to the University of Memphis Memphis’s most precious natural resource is Center for Applied Earth Science and Engi- effectively unmanaged. neering Research, cleaning up potential conThat shift — from passive beneficiary to tamination to the aquifer would take genera- active stewardship — is the essence of Protect tions, cost vast sums of money, and potentially Our Aquifer’s work. Among its recommendanot even work. tions are expanded geological In other words, prevention mapping to identify vulneris not simply cheaper than able areas, more consistent remediation; it is often the and widespread water qualonly realistic option. It leaves ity sampling, improved data modern Memphis with a clear management systems, and the duty: to treat the aquifer as the establishment of clear protecmiracle it is. tions around wellheads and After decades of taking the recharge zones. These may sound like techaquifer for granted, in 2016, a group of Memphians led by nical fixes, but in shifting from passive reliance to accivic leader Ward Archer decided to do something about tive management, it acknowlit. They founded Protect Our edges Memphis can no longer March 2005 Aquifer, the city’s first orgaassume that its water will renized response to threats to the aquifer, and it main clean simply because it always has been has evolved into one of the city’s most effective that way. The conditions that allowed for that and admired organizations. assumption — lower industrial demand, less The organization is not driven by abstract development pressure, and limited scientific environmentalism. Rather, it is grounded in a understanding — no longer exist. 20 • 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 6
The Blue Print led the Shelby County Ground Water Quality Control Board to work toward a plan to safeguard the aquifer that it first promised in the late 1980s. From its beginnings to halt new deep wells that would cool the TVA’s gas-fired Allen Combined Cycle power plant to today ensuring that SpaceXAI builds the greywater recycling facility it has promised, Protect Our Aquifer has become a reliable, authoritative source of facts and a respected voice expanding knowledge of the crucial role that our water source plays in our economy and quality of life, and most of all, in our future. Protecting the aquifer is not anti-development. Rather, it is the foundation of sustainable development. For decades, economic development has been pursued without fully accounting for environmental costs. The aquifer challenges that approach. It forces Memphis to confront a fundamental question: What is the value of growth if it compromises the very resource that makes growth attractive? Industries and TVA with their heavy reliance on tens of millions of gallons of water daily will continue to be part of Memphis’s economy, but they must operate within a framework that ensures long-term sustainability. That means stricter oversight, better data, and a willingness to say no when risks outweigh benefits. It should also mean that Memphis Light, Gas and Water no longer sells water at a discount to large industries. The arrival of water-intensive data centers magnifies the importance of groundwater withdrawals, conservation, monitoring, and long-term planning. These projects promise investment and jobs, but they also require a level of transparency and scientific scrutiny that matches the value of the natural resource they rely on. Public officials must ask the hard questions before permits are granted rather than after problems emerge. Protect Our Aquifer’s citizen advocacy is dedicated to making sure that happens. Without knowledgeable citizens willing to study reports and ask informed questions, critical decisions can unfold with little public awareness. In this way, Protect Our Aquifer’s impact extends beyond groundwater. It strengthens civic culture itself. T O M J O N E S is the principal of Smart City Consulting, which specializes in strategic communications, public policy development, and strategic planning. He tends the 20-year-old Smart City Memphis Blog and is an author with experience in local government. Contact him at tjones@smartcityconsulting.com
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And they ’re off ! Nex t stop: Rosemar y Beach
PEDALING AGAINST CANCER THE RIDE 2 ROSEMARY RAISES FUNDS AND AWARENESS FOR THE WEST CANCER FOUNDATION. BY CAMILLE CULBERTSON
P
R AY I N G O N T H E P O R C H E S of families affected by cancer, savoring bites of Ms. Debbie’s pie, and smelling the scent of the sea as they cross the Florida finish line, 70 men in a wave of pink bike side-by-side each October from Memphis to Rosemary Beach in Florida. ¶ A 525-mile adventure that sounds Herculean on paper, Ride 2 Rosemary is an annual fundraising event for the West Cancer Foundation. In five days, the all-male volunteers, in addition to a group of men managing supplies and food, travel around 100 miles a day on bikes. Along their journey, they serve as ambassadors for the foundation, encouraging donations, and drawing attention to their cause.¶ This year’s bike ride will take place October 10-14. The female equivalent of the journey, She to Sea, also supports the West Cancer Foundation through a journey every March f rom Memphis to Seagrove Beach, Florida.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY WEST CANCER FOUNDATION
Ride 2 Rosemary is an invitation-only event, and it initially began in 2010 with a group of seven men. After enduring a difficult period of his life, Chuck Bolton’s friends asked him what he wanted to do after his struggle; he told them he wanted to ride to his home at Rosemary Beach. Sixteen years later, a single group’s trek has grown into a mission representative of cancer’s universal impact and the power of perseverance. Now, the group event supports the West Cancer Foundation’s many efforts to make cancer care accessible. “You can’t really find anyone who hasn’t been affected by cancer in one way or another, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re in the Memphis area, we are here to support you,” says Leighanne Soden, president and founder of the West Cancer Foundation. The foundation provides transportation for patients, cancer screenings, and free wigs for patients battling cancer who have lost their hair during treatments. Additionally, the group also started a mental wellness program to assist both patients and their caregivers. A large portion of West Cancer Foundation’s funds are spent towards providing early-detection prostate and breast cancer screenings. “Memphis, right now, is number two [in the nation] for Black women with breast cancer. That’s not a list we want to be on, and these guys know that,” Soden says. Instead of changing buses five times, patients are provided with Uber and Lyft rides to their chemotherapy or radiation appointments, through the West Cancer Foundation’s transportation program. Last year alone, the foundation offered around 6,700 rides and hopes to reach 10,000 rides this year. In mileage, the transportation program has traveled to the moon and halfway back, or in another analogy, traveled around the world 11 times. “I don’t worry about whether the car is going to break down or I’m going to run out of gas. I just hop in my car and go,” says Soden. “Well, the people we work with often don’t have that option. If they have a car, it’s not reliable or broken down, or they can’t afford the gas,” Soden says.
S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 23
The West Cancer Foundation also helps build patients’ confidence through programs like the Sweet Wig Beauty Boutique, where patients can receive free wigs. “Going through treatment and losing your hair, that’s kind of like losing your crown and your glory and your identity,” says Keri Burnette, vice president of operations at the West Cancer Foundation. “By the time they leave [Sweet Wig Beauty Boutique], they’ve got a smile on their face,”
“We’ve been through a lot together,” says Bolton. “You name a topic, we’ve probably been through it together — from the death of a child, the death of a spouse, or financial issues, and we really do care for each other.”
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Part of the growth behind the program is through word of mouth, which is where the Ride 2 Rosemary volunteers step in. With their eye-catching pink jerseys, the men serve as a poster for the organization in addition to a brotherhood. Before the race, the West Cancer Foundation trains participants on how to raise funds along the road and refer families to Memphis. This past year, marking the 15th anniversary of Ride 2 Rosemary, the ride alone raised more than $328,000 and aims to raise $350,000 this October. Volunteers are chosen with the intention of participating for many years, rather than riding as a one-and-done. Training through the year, attending faith walks, and supporting one another through hardship, the ride transformed from a volunteering event to a support group, a guys’ trip and safe space. “We’ve been through a lot together,” says Bolton. “You name a topic, we’ve probably been through it together — from the death of a child, the death of a spouse, or financial issues, and we really do care for each other.”
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When Bolton’s son and Eliza Fletcher, wife of cyclist Richie Fletcher, were missing in 2022, the Ride 2 Rosemary men came together to form a search party, supporting Bolton and Fletcher’s families. Through their hardest moments, the men bound together with an outpouring of compassion. A large component of the ride and a connection between the group is faith: In addition to monthly faith walks, volunteers pray before taking off on ride day and often pray along the road for families impacted by cancer. Not only does the ride raise money, but it forges decades of friendship. A 525-mile bike ride requires intensive training and a weekly time commitment. While skilled cyclists lead the front of the pink pack, Ride 2 Rosemary welcomes new cyclists each year. Every Sunday, beginning in April and continuing until the ride in October, volunteers train together, rain or shine. Bringing together men of all ages, the preparation required of riders encourages healthy lifestyles. “If we’re not healthier partners, husbands, fathers, employees and employers through this process, and the only thing you’ve done is become a better cyclist, then you’re really missing the idea of the ride,” says Bolton. The energy of the Ride 2 Rosemary brotherhood is amplified by the support of their community along the ride. Before riders leave, individuals looking to donate can “Support Your Favorite Rider.” On the ride send-off in Memphis, crowds used to consist of families of riders, but now, the day has become a community event. After leaving Memphis, the ride makes stops in Tupelo in Mississippi and Tuscaloosa, Selma, and Andalusia in Alabama. When stopping at gas stations in their pink biker shorts, riders are often asked about their mission, in turn encouraging donations of up to $10,000. The group has been caught on drone footage and has created long-term friendships with locals along the route. Each year, for example, the riders stop in Tuscaloosa to visit Ms. Debbie, also known as the “Pie Lady.” After what volunteer Gary Thompson describes lovingly as “525 miles of hanging around with smelly, stinky guys,” riders are reunited with their families on the cobblestone streets of Rosemary Beach, where they may vacation with their loved ones or make their way back home. For Thompson, this means seeing his daughter come home from college at send-off and spending time with family at Rosemary Beach, a tradition for his family. For others, that means riding behind the pack to watch each rider’s joy as they cross the finish line. “I think in 16 years I haven’t had a dry eye,” says Bolton. “I would say my cup is really full when I roll down the beach.”
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THAT’S SO METAL THE METAL MUSEUM REOPENS THIS MONTH IN ITS NEW OVERTON PARK CAMPUS.
JON W. SPARKS
THE METAL MUSEUM is making something of a quantum leap this month. It’s still a singular institution, doing for the metal arts what nobody else is quite able to achieve — in fact, there’s no other museum quite like it, anywhere. But, as executive director Carissa Hussong puts it, “We’re just bigger. A lot bigger.” ¶ When she took over, more than 18 years ago, what was then called the National Ornamental Metal Museum offered classes, had an informal residency program, saw artists coming and going, exhibited art, had youth programs, and presented tours. ¶ It’s grown during Hussong’s tenure, refining and expanding where it could. But its beloved location limited its growth. Nearly 50 years ago, the museum acquired a site on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River that is possessed of a breathtaking view, verdant grounds, and historic buildings that have housed offices, galleries, and metalsmithing projects. Since opening in 1979, the museum has built a global reputation. ¶ But it’s had difficulties achieving its potential. And in September, after a $35 million capital expansion project, it is opening a new facility in what was the Memphis College of Art (MCA) building in Overton Park, also known as Rust Hall. MAKING THE MOVE
Leaders of the Metal Museum had pondered expansion well before the demise of the art college, which closed in 2020. Even when Hussong began at the museum, discussions were underway about improving accessibility at the riverfront facility, adding an elevator, acquiring much-needed additional space, and more. The museum hired an architect to come up with some answers. The result was a plan to create two buildings 28 • 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 6
on the bluff that would have cost $60 million. But it would have changed the character of the location — and nobody was certain that people would come. Fantastic as the bluff site is, getting to it has been legendarily difficult. Visitors approaching it from the expressway all too often missed the exit and ended up in Arkansas. [Editor’s note: I have done this. Twice.] All of which was weighed when, in 2017, MCA made the fateful decision to close. But the idea to take over the space was not instantaneous. “It wasn’t my idea that we consider
this building,” Hussong says. “It was suggested to me by Jackie Nichols,” founder of Playhouse on the Square and principal of LEaR Mentoring, a nonprofit consultant. “My initial reaction was absolutely no, we can’t leave the bluff. That’s not an option. And it took me exactly two weeks to realize that we would actually be solving a number of different problems.” Acquiring the building in Overton Park would allow the museum to keep the bluff location and use it for an artist-in-residency program for metalsmiths at a high level. Being off the beaten path had its benefits because “it’s an incredible place away from the city and you’re five minutes from Beale Street, but it feels like you’re hours away in some ways,” Hussong says. “It could feel quaint and old and fun and funky, but we could take the museum to the next level in this location.” As for the potential new location, the museum had the advantage of having already planned for an expansion. “It was kind of easy to look at this building and know that it was a similar size to what we were looking for,” she says. “And the way that the building was shaped and laid out, it was very easy to fit our program into it.” PHOTOGRAPHS BY MEREDITH AVERY / ME TAL MUSEUM
Ramps flanking the main entr y staircase have been widened so people can enter the museum high or low to end up in one of two lobbies with reception desk s.
So what was it that Hussong was looking for? “We wanted collection storage that was laid out in a way that was safe for the artwork and safe for our staff,” she says. “And we needed more space because we certainly had been given a lot more artwork in the last five years than probably the previous 20.” That was on the checklist, and of course additional gallery space that would not be cramped and limiting. “It will allow us to show more work and give work the space that it deserves,” she says. “Throughout the building, there’s a lot more space to show pieces from our permanent collection.” That includes not just the three changing gallery spaces but also lobbies, walkways, and outdoor spaces.
EXPANDING EDUCATION Educational outreach is the most significant area of growth for this new iteration of the museum. Space in the blacksmith shop and foundry on the bluff is so limited that projects, such as commissioned work being done during the week, had to be deconstructed to allow for weekend classes, and then put back
together on Monday. The 25-foot mosasaurus statue now at the Pink Palace was crafted and assembled during Covid when there were no classes; otherwise it couldn’t have been done. That inefficiency will go away with dedicated areas in the Overton Park facility. The new space for metalworking is three times the size of what was available on the bluff site. And now, if there’s a need for a blacksmith class while there’s a sizable project going on, enormous cranes can be used to move the construction to the side and easily repositioned. “We can bring in more guest teachers and demonstrators, host more conferences,” Hussong says. “It will allow us to bring in more apprentices and interns because that is a safety issue — we’ll be able to actually have two apprentices in each area as well as a lead metalsmith.” In addition to the new metalworking facility, a dedicated education space will be eight times what the bluff facility had. A set of classrooms will accommodate learners from kindergarten to adults who want to get into other aspects of metalwork. School groups can do hammered bracelets or families can
learn enameling, for example, in the multipurpose area. “It’s important because I do think of jewelry and smaller metals as fine metals,” Hussong says. “They’re more approachable to a lot of people and that is how a lot of people get started.” This expansion may also allow the museum to work with the University of Memphis exploring areas of metallurgy. The new facility is also opening up the potential for the museum to work with other community partners. One of the elements of Rust Hall, MCA’s main building, that was retained is the auditorium, which has been upgraded and has already garnered the interest of programmers at Indie Memphis, the Overton Park Shell, and Opera Memphis.
BIGGER IS BETTER The museum, since the days it was called the National Ornamental Metal Museum, has been known as a Mecca for the metalsmithing community worldwide. There is no metal institution quite like it, anywhere, and it has long enjoyed a global reputation. “At least 40 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 29
percent of our membership is from outside the region, which is very unusual,” Hussong says, “and most of our visitors are from out of town.” Artists and collectors are following what the museum is doing “because we are showing the work on a regular basis and want to share it with other institutions as well,” Hussong says. “The library is going to become very important. A lot of museums have gotten rid of their library collections, but we hope to expand pretty rapidly over the next 10 to 15 years.” These enhancements are among many that Hussong points out will take the Metal Museum to the next level. One such area is for artists-in-residence. “Maybe you’ve just gotten your MFA and you are trying to start up your own business, but you can’t afford all the equipment and come someplace to live and work and start that first body of work. Or maybe someone is an artist further along in your career. You want to go someplace peaceful and work for a month,” she says, “but you can’t move your studio to a new place. Maybe you’re a blacksmith and know a little bit about casting and want to focus on that. An international artist can bring their favorite hammer and come and work in our studio. That artist-in-residency program is so critical in that it will allow us to have more partner30 • 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 6
ships nationally and internationally.” The bluff location will still be used by the museum for its artist-in-residency program and it will have on-site metal studios. The 3.2-acre area will still be accessible for venue and event rentals.
FINDING THE MONEY When the museum was selected to take over the old MCA building, no other organization had the kind of backing and funding that could compete. As Hussong says of the funding, “In some ways it’s been a challenge and in other ways it’s been this incredible blessing.” Several years ago, a gift from the Windgate Foundation set things in motion. The Arkansas philanthropy, which gets much of its funding from Walmart stock, made a grant of $2 million to start an endowment for the museum. “They have been so incredibly supportive of the museum since then,” Hussong says. During Covid the foundation advised organizations it supported to not lay anyone off. It was a priority to keep the arts groups functioning. “When this project started, they committed $12 million to the campaign, which is incredible,” she says. “It helped us secure the building with the city. It helped funders realize that
we had significant support that we could get there. And some of the foundations that came in early on did so with a strong commitment. The Assisi Foundation gave us one and a half million dollars, the biggest gift they’ve given. The Thomas W. Briggs Foundation was also incredibly supportive early on in a way that’s much larger than they usually give as well.” She also mentions the Community Foundation of Memphis and the Hyde Family Foundation as key supporters, among many others. It was, Hussong says, crucial that potential funders see where the new facility would be and how it would help the larger community. “You have to come into the building to really understand it — especially in the beginning before we started construction and it was still PHOTOGRAPHS BY MEREDITH AVERY / ME TAL MUSEUM
Clockwise from far left: The rooftop terrace facing nor theast; the new foundr y building from the west entrance; museum executive direc tor Carissa Hussong; the upgraded auditorium.
a lot of small rooms with windows covered and the memory of the College of Art. Some people could really see the vision of what it would be like, to open up all of these spaces and be able to see the trees and the park and the light. During construction, people have really understood what we were trying to achieve.”
THE TRANSFORMATION The idea was to repurpose what had been designed by modernist architect Roy Harrover to be a college of art. It opened in 1959 as the Memphis Academy of Arts and had several additions through the years. LRK Architects Designers Planners got the contract to change the building into something that would serve the museum while retaining the spirit and character of its origins. Architect Krissy Flickinger, a senior associate at LRK, was deeply involved in transforming the facility. “The reason that I love working on existing buildings, especially historic ones in general, is that delicate dance, as I call it,” she says. “It’s a balance of old and new, of making sure that you’re honoring the building that you have and then making it ready for the future. You don’t want to cause any harm to it, but you have to be able to make it what you need, what its new use is going to be.” Flickinger continues, “An unwavering commitment from the beginning from the museum was this idea of accessibility and inclusivity.
The first place that you’re going to experience that is your main entry.” This posed something of a dilemma. Visitors entered MCA by climbing massive stairs to reach the main lobby. The secondary way was on ground level that served as a handicap entrance and was cramped, utilitarian, and unattractive. “We wanted to expand the ramps on either side of that main entry staircase, which is iconic,” Flickinger says. “This temple on the hill that was designed back in the 1950s was symmetrical. We don’t want to jeopardize any of that. We wanted to make this entry much more grand and obvious. Well, the park service wasn’t as on board with the ‘grand’ piece of that.” The museum and LRK were pursuing tax credits from the National Park Service, which had stringent guidelines about accessibility, and disagreements ensued. But coolness prevailed and the groups reached a compromise. It’s a bit smaller than what had been proposed, but still larger than before and, as Flickinger says, “still very grand and very welcoming.” People can enter high or low and whichever way they go, they’ll end up in one of the two lobbies with reception desks. Inside, visitors will find an abundance of light. The skylights on the upper area were redone and the area on the first floor has ample natural light coming in where it had once been largely fluorescent. The notion of accessibility extends both within and without, giving Overton Park an easily navigable area. Outside, visitors can walk dogs through the site, and enjoy the sculpture path that encircles the building. Go around from the main entrance to the other side where the metalworking building
has been added and they can look down into the shop and see artists at work. And then everything is just a few steps from the Overton Park Shell. That outside area has been given special attention as well as inside the building. Ritchie Smith Associates is the landscape architect of record and has been associated with a host of projects around town. Smith and his firm worked with wHY, a museum design-focused architectural and landscape partner out of Los Angeles and New York. “This is one very special, challenging project,” says Smith, “but what we have collectively created is going to be transformative for this site.” He notes the importance and dominance of the building, but also says that it “did not embrace the park in an open-arms way.” Smith references the entryway that was redesigned and says it is now much more inviting than in the past and connects to the park. “It’s not just a path; it’s a gathering area,” he says, pointing out that the entryway on the left now has seating where a group can comfortably gather for a presentation or just socializing. “The big move is that the west entrance has an embrace with the park,” he says. “We relocated the utilities and now there’s an eastwest connection coming from the building. And there’s a kind of rectangular lawn area that literally connects with the Shell lawn. When they don’t have that fence for concerts, it really breathes and gives the park more connectivity.” Smith also points out the creation of “meadows with native grass, wildflower planting, ferns, pollinators. And there are four distinct areas that have that treatment versus just regular grass or turf grass.” Most distinctively, 14 sculptures have been added to the site, one of which is the Ted Rust Ikon piece, designed by the longtime MCA president, that stood in front of MCA for years. “We wanted to create more walks to invite people into the site and around it,” Smith says. Hussong, on the eve of the grand opening of the museum on September 5th, contemplates the journey. “There were things that we gave up, some of which I am actually happy that we did,” she says. “I’m happier with the way that it all came together. And I do feel like it’s a very respectful reuse of the spaces where we did bigger changes. I think we made those spaces feel grander, more welcoming, more light, just more inspiring.” The Metal Museum’s grand opening in Overton Park is scheduled for September 5th, and the museum will open its new doors to the public on September 11th. S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 31
GROWING TOGETHER
O N A V I S I T to Dan and
Peg Wahl’s home in Midtown, the trees capture one’s eye first. Holding court on their corner lot is a fantastic magnolia so enormous, its lofty understory creates a magic treehouse of sorts, perfect for climbing or daydreaming. Its nearby companion is a tulip poplar, with limbs that stretch graciously over the yard, reaching out towards its lifelong companion. The two have weathered countless seasons together, proving strong and resilient. And like those trees, this story is about companionship and teamwork and what it means to grow together. ¶ When the Wahls were preparing for their fourth appearance on the Experience Memphis Gardens tour back in April, Peg drafted a detailed to-do list. She itemized the tasks they would need to complete before welcoming visitors. ¶ “I thought that list would have maybe 45 items,” says Peg. “But it turned out to be 145. What’s more, Dan probably did 140 of those jobs while I did five.” ¶ Yet both will tell you the garden would be far less accomplished without the other. Peg is the idea person, the one who considers the new plant that might add interest or color to a bed. Dan is the tender, the one who provides muscle and heft to each project. ¶ “His father was a mechanic on a ship during WWII, so he taught Dan how to fix and maintain things. He takes great pride in his job. Dan’s workmanship is excellent,” Peg notes with pride.
CRAFTING A VISION D U R I N G T H E I R 27 years here, the Wahls were initially too busy with careers in property management and family life to do much outdoors. But in 2014, with retirement coming into view and their three children grown, the couple decided the time had come to start a new chapter. They began by renovating the front of the house and sizing up the front porch. Their architect, Charles Shipp, recommended extending its length by abolishing the square, brick landing to create a rectangular one paved in a handsome, denim-washed bluestone. They super-sized other features, too, adding New Orleans-style gas lanterns on either side of the front door and wide plantation shutters at the windows. At the base of the landing, two elegant concrete urns soon overflowed with three-foot-wide macho ferns.
The changes transformed the porch from bland to grand. Their landscape architect and designer, Jackie Distretti, had another idea. To draw the visitor’s eye to the home’s front entry, she suggested building a short garden fence and gate at the street. “It’s our personal folly,” says Peg with a laugh. She’s referring to the clever, Victorian-era structures that British estate owners added to create pleasing views. “But neighbors have teased us about whether our fence man actually just ditched the job!” says Peg. Perhaps they simply lack vision, for the results are both playful and welcoming. Distrelli, also a master gardener, spent several days in their yard simply observing the light before putting pen to paper and drawing up a garden plan. She considered what the couple would see from inside their
home when looking out, as well as how the plantings would appear from the street. Her thoughtfulness has paid off: From one living room window is a view of the garden gate, another features a weeping Japanese maple and the magnolia, and from the dining room, a handsome fountain. “It’s all about bringing the outdoors in,” says Peg, who’s drawn inspiration from the work of Arkansas gardener P. Allen Smith. He created Moss Mountain Farm outside of Little Rock, Arkansas. Before planting, Distretti helped them assess the beds around the yard. “There were foundation plants that had been here for 50-plus years,” says Dan, since their house was built in 1956. A few were worth saving, most notably the beds that held mophead hydrangeas and George Tabor azaleas that S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 33
SIPS
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PHOTOGRAPHS BY TK TK TKK T TK TK TK TK TK
still bloom bountifully each spring. The couple later trimmed the beds with autumn-red day lilies from George Touliatos’ nursery and ruffled day lilies the color of lemon drops. Next, Distretti advised removing invasive species like the hedge of privet that ran behind the house. Dan dug up struggling boxwoods, too, and bushels of messy monkey grass. Now, Nellie Stevens hollies create a dense evergreen curtain along the backyard that the birds love, and nearby, peonies, blackberry lilies, and elephant ears bloom. Like any garden, what they look out on now is a creation that continues to evolve. “About half of what is in the yard today is not in its original place,” says Dan. “Some plants have been moved two or three times.” However, adds Peg, “I give Distretti a lot of credit for the foundation plantings that truly did become the foundation for the yard.” While the Wahls use a lawn service for mowing and edging, they tend the garden themselves. During the first decade, it was something of a trial-and-error affair. But working as a team, they laughed and learned together. “We both love nurseries,” Peg says, as Dan nods in agreement. “We’ll go to one anytime, any place.” Dan also came to appreciate the importance of trimming heavily and fertilizing often. His go-tos are Triple 13, a helpful, one-sizefits-all fertilizer in the spring and Holly-tone and Plant-tone, organic plant foods made by Espoma that he uses generously during the summer months. “Feeding throughout the summer is so important because you’re preparing the plants for the following year,” he says. Regular watering is also key. And to prevent pests from being transferred from one plant to another, Dan rubs down his pruning shears with Lysol after each use.
“I JOKE THAT THIS MIGHT BE THE FANCIEST DOG RUN IN THE WORLD,” SAYS PEG. “SHE LOVES PLAYING THERE.” AN ENGLISH GARDEN T H E C O U P L E ’ S M O S T rewarding project was creating their English ornamental garden on the east side of the house. Two rows of coral bark Japanese maples create an allée that arches gracefully over the gravel walk with a parterre divided into four quarters, each planted with a variety of flowering shrubs that include limelight and Annabelle hydrangeas, oversized hardy begonias, boxwoods, and hostas. There’s even a sunny seating area where Peg grows colorful annuals. Although an HVAC unit is housed here too, it’s artfully concealed beneath a metal cage, a fix suggested by Brett Norman at Urban Earth (their staff also built it). A tangerine beauty crossvine trails up the cage’s checkerboard pattern, where it blooms each spring and produces a lacy veil of green all summer. Along the fence line, an Oakland holly hedge flourishes. They chose to gate this space so that Presley, their handsome Welsh terrier, could romp unsupervised. “I joke that this might be the fanciest dog run in the world,” says Peg. “She loves playing there.” When visitors walk from here into the backyard, they enter another enchanting
room featuring a beautiful brick patio, a place the couple can relax with morning coffee or an afternoon cocktail. Since the yard is anchored by another sizable magnolia, it stays shady during the heat of the day, providing the dappled sunlight azaleas, hostas, and Japanese maples love. An adjacent screened porch means the view can be enjoyed yearround while listening to the gurgle of the fountain just beyond the patio, one of Peg’s favorite features. Each spring, the couple invites the neighborhood in for the annual Easter egg hunt, when some 500 eggs are hidden for eager children to find. As a result, “I find eggs throughout the summer,” says Peg. “It’s wonderful.” Most recently, Dan has become smitten with orchids. “Whenever Urban Earth marks their orchids down to $5, I dash over and buy them up,” he says, proudly pointing to his growing horde at the base of the patio, where their pots are hung like ornaments on a tree. He’s still learning about these tropicals and hopes they’ll flourish outdoors during the humid months of summer. Together, the yard has become a gracious extension of the couple’s home. It’s the perfect place for Peg and Dan to relax, entertain, and most importantly, enjoy each other’s company. S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 35
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the M E M P H I S S A N D A Q U I F E R sustains our industries A N D slakes our thirst, but T H E A N C I E N T R E S O U R C E is fragile to ongoing threats. by D A V I D W A T E R S photography by H O U S T O N C O F I E L D
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Maybe it’s because of my last name. Or because I have one kidney and am keenly aware of its need for healthy hydration. Or because I grew up five miles from a Great Lake and have spent nearly all my adult life even closer to a Mighty River. ¶ Or maybe it’s because my wife and I have had the good fortune of raising our family directly above the massive Memphis Sand Aquifer and its estimated 57-100 trillion gallons of cool, clear, clean water. ¶ We don’t buy bottled water. We don’t filter our tap water. We just turn on the faucet, fill a glass, and drink. We don’t really pay for the aquifer water we use. We pay the local utility to pump it, mildly treat it, and pipe it to us. ¶ Memphis is the largest city in America that gets all its drinking water from groundwater rather than from surface water, such as rivers and lakes. The average residential customer in Memphis pays about $12 a month for water. That’s about $3.20 per 1,000 gallons. Only residents of Orlando, Florida, pay less. ¶ Lucky us. Our drinking water is clean, cheap, plentiful, accessible — and easy to take for granted. We use aquifer water around here to make sweet tea and craft beer. We use it to cook and clean and flush. We use it to water our lawns, fields, and ponds. We use it to manufacture everything from yeast and cooking oil to steel and air conditioners and medical devices. We let our faucets drip, our fountains and hoses run, and our pipes leak without a second thought. We use it to cool power plants and, more and more, data centers. “We are the Saudi Arabia of water,” says Larry J. Smith, an environmentalist, local water expert, and lifelong Memphian. “We have so much of it, almost no one really thinks much about it or cares where it comes from, how we get it, or what might be happening to it.” Smith has been thinking about and caring for our groundwater and surface water for decades in his various roles for the MidSouth Peace and Justice Center, the Wolf River Conservancy, the Shelby County Health Department, and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. He knows where toxins were spilled, discharged, burned, buried, and abandoned. He also knows that the liquid treasure buried in sand hundreds of feet beneath our feet is connected to the land, surface water, rainwater, and changing climate — and to the civilization and its toxins above — in ways we still are working to identify and understand. Here’s what we do understand. The aquifer water that fell as rain more than 38 • 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 6
2,000 years ago — and that we pump and pour into our daily lives in Memphis and across the Mid-South — isn’t inexhaustible. The thick layers of sand, silt, gravel, and clay that naturally collect, filter, and protect our drinking water aren’t impenetrable. The patchwork of local, state, regional and federal ordinances, laws, agencies, and utilities that oversee the use of this invaluable natural resource is — to put it mildly — inadequate. “The reality is, our groundwater is unmanaged,” says The Blue Print, a document prepared by Protect Our Aquifer that is being used to develop Shelby County’s first-ever groundwater protection plan. “New research continues to reveal more about our geology and threats of contamination. We must begin treating and managing the Memphis Sand Aquifer as the foundation of our livelihoods, because it truly is.” I wanted to see for myself. So I asked Larry Smith and other local water experts to take me on a guided tour of the Memphis Sand Aquifer. It wasn’t as easy as touring Graceland. You can see Graceland. You can’t visit the massive, underground marvel made millions of years ago. There are no road signs inviting you to see Rock Sand Clay City. I took a sort of conceptual journey. Along the way, my guides took me millions of years back in time, hundreds of feet below ground, and many miles across the county, the region, and the world. It was a fascinating water ride.
Most of the water stored in our aquifer fell as rain 2,000-3,000 years ago, according to the most recent scientific estimates. That’s a long time ago to you or me, but in the realm of geology, it’s like a few seconds. The hydrogeologic formation that captures, filters, holds, and yields our drinking water took tens of millions of years to form. Water was already here. It has been here for at least four billion years. Water is old as dirt. Literally. Geologists don’t measure time in hours, days, or years. They measure it in eons, eras, and epochs — in periods of time that span millions and billions of years. I didn’t have that much time. So I asked Randy Cox and Roy Van Arsdale, two geology professors at the University of Memphis, to give me a primer on the geological formation known as the Mississippi Embayment. The Embayment is not a lovely coastal bay on the coast. It’s a multistate, sediment-filled trough that contains multiple aquifers including ours. “It’s a giant, natural water treatment system,” Van Arsdale says, “and it’s right here under our feet.” At that moment, our feet were inside a coffee shop on Highland Street, so named because it runs along slightly elevated land on what was once the eastern edge of Memphis. Now the “Highland Heights” area is in the middle of the city. Millions of years ago, it was in the middle of a mountain range as high as the Smokies. “The southern end of what is now the Appalachians and the eastern end of what is now the Ouachitas in Arkansas were one continuous mountain range,” Van Arsdale says. What happened to our mountains? Geology happened. Van Arsdale and Cox explained it all in “The Mississippi’s Curious Origins,” their groundbreaking (figuratively speaking) 2006 article in Scientific American. They were the first geologists to deduce how complex tectonic, erosional, and depositional forces turned our interior highlands into a gulf coastal plain. In geology, depositional refers to the ways in which sediments, soil, and rocks are deposited over time by water, wind, ice, and gravity. It all started hundreds of millions of years ago, after the continents broke apart. The North American plate kept sliding to the west. Our part of the plate — already weakened by all the pushing and pulling — slid very, very slowly over a volcanic hotspot (the same one that later created Bermuda).
When Cox was a kid, El Dorado’s sole source of industrial, commercial, and drinking water was the Sparta Sand Aquifer. That’s what people in Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana call the Memphis Sand Aquifer. In the late 1990s, the U.S. Geological Survey warned El Dorado to cut its water use by 72 percent or risk irreparable damage to the aquifer. Today, El Dorado draws water from the Ouachita River as well as the aquifer. The county’s three largest industries — an oil company and two chemical companies — all use river water. “Over the years, Sparta Sand water quality decreased due to over-pumping, which causes deeper, saltier water to come up and into the water wells,” Cox says. “I worry the same thing could happen to the Memphis aquifer.” So do a lot of other people. Not sea water. Contaminated water.
Over tens of millions of years, this region rose and fell like a hot-air balloon, says Van Arsdale, which “inflates and rises when the gas jets are turned on, When the gas jets are turned off, there is no more hot air inflating the balloon; the balloon deflates, and it descends.” Our region rocked up — as much as three kilometers, or almost two miles, up — then rolled back down. “When the region cooled, it deflated and sank,” Van Arsdale says. “The eroded top became a depression in the landscape three kilometers deep.” That long, thumb-shaped depression is now known as the Mississippi Embayment. It’s a northern extension of the gulf coastal plain — without the gulf. It runs along the Lower Mississippi River Valley from rocky southern Illinois (where it’s only a few yards deep), through the Memphis area (more than half a mile deep), all the way down to the gulf (nearly two miles deep). Fortunately, Mother Nature didn’t leave behind a big, empty ditch. Sea levels rose and fell. The embayment was repeatedly flooded
by the gulf, causing marine sediments to accumulate. When the sea receded, the ancient Mississippi River and its tributaries carried water, mud, sand, and gravel into the ditch. More layers of sediment accumulated. “I’ve seen graphics that show each layer as a deep bowl, but those are exaggerations,” Van Arsdale says. “The layers are more like a stack of thin pancakes sitting on top of a solid bedrock plate. And the plate is cracked.” Those cracks — seismic stretch marks where the North American plate nearly tore apart north of here — are now known as the New Madrid Seismic Zone, which triggered some of the largest earthquakes in U.S. history in 1811 and 1812. The quakes are what inspired Van Arsdale to spend more time investigating the embayment. Cox was motivated by more personal reasons. He grew up in El Dorado, Arkansas, a Delta town about 250 miles southwest of Memphis. “El Dorado was an oil boomtown full of geologists and wanna-be geologists, so I became one,” he says.
U S E D T O T H I N K of our aquifer as a big underground lake. I was wrong. It isn’t a buried body of water. It’s a buried body of water-soaked sand. It isn’t a Great Lake. It’s a Great Sand Box. That’s why it’s called the Memphis Sand. That’s the name two hydrogeologists gave it in 1969. Before G.K. Moore and D.L. Brown published their pioneering study of our aquifer, it was simply referred to as the “500-foot sand” — the average depth of the sand below Shelby County. (There’s also a deeper “1,400foot sand” called the Ft. Pillow Aquifer. It supplies drinking water to parts of northern Mississippi, Millington, and West Memphis.) The Memphis Sand extends far beyond the arbitrary human borders of Shelby County. If you could peel off the layers of soil, surface water, shallow groundwater, and clay above it, the Memphis Sand would look like a giant beach that juts up more than 500 miles from the Gulf Coast. That beach would cover most of West Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and northwest Mississippi, as well as parts of six other states, from the southern tip of Illinois to the bottom of Louisiana. In most areas, the sand would be hundreds of feet thick. “There’s a lot of sand beneath our feet, and the spaces between those sand grains hold a lot of water,” says Rodrigo Villalpando-Vizcaino, a research faculty member for the University of Memphis’s Center for Applied Earth Science and Engineering Research (CAESER). How much water? No one knows for sure. CAESER estimates that there are 57 trillion
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SIPS
gallons beneath Shelby County, and more than 100 trillion gallons under the entire eight-state region. By comparison, Lake Ontario, the smallest Great Lake, holds about 400 trillion gallons of water. But measuring drops of aquifer water between grains of sand buried hundreds of feet in the ground is a bit more complicated. “The Memphis aquifer is more like a mixture of different types of sand, with some silts and clays here and there,” Villalpando-Vizcaino says. “It can have different colors, grain sizes, and textures depending on the location and depth.” Faculty members, alongside graduate and undergraduate students at CAESER (formerly the Ground Water Institute), have been studying the Memphis Sand Aquifer and its component layers since the 1990s. Along the way, they’ve collected thousands of sediment samples with sand, silts, and clays from the different systems. The samples are stored in more than 6,500 tiny plastic bags and 6,000 small wooden boxes in the basement of the old Navy hospital in Millington, now the site of the Mississippi Embayment Research Center at the University of Memphis’s Millington campus. “The boxes were taking up too much space, so we started using bags,” says Md. Saddam Hossain, the center’s repository logistics coordinator and a CAESER staff member. “The bags also make it easier for our researchers to use the samples.” Groundwater is the world’s most extracted raw material, according to the National Ground Water Association. Freshwater aquifers supply nearly half of the world’s drinking water and more than 40 percent of the world’s irrigated land. But aquifers around the world are shrinking. A study of 1,700 aquifers in more than 40 countries found that groundwater levels in almost half have fallen since 2000, according to research published in Nature in 2024. The same study found that more than half of the 400 aquifers in the U.S. — including the Memphis Sand Aquifer — are losing water. The Ogallala Aquifer of the Great Plains, the nation’s largest aquifer, which provides about 30 percent of the groundwater used for irrigation in the U.S., is steadily running out of water, the U.S. Geological Survey reported in May. Hossain grew up in Bangladesh, where villages, farms, and industries are using groundwater faster than it can be replaced. Last year, the government banned groundwater extraction for irrigation and industry in nearly 5,000 villages in northwestern Bangladesh, lined with mango groves and rice paddies. Villalpando-Vizcaino grew up in Mexico, where aquifers are drying up and cities are sinking. “Mexico City is sinking as much as 10 42 • 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 6
(ABOVE) Shelby Count y Health Depar tment: Alan Morella, Lead Technical Specialist; Sonja Owens, Operations Manager ; Bailey Bynum, Technical Specialist (LEF T) Brian Waldron
inches a year, and the city is facing a potential day-zero when the water taps run dry,” he says. When groundwater levels drop, water pressure drops, too. That can cause compressible layers within and above an aquifer to compact; it can cause land above to subside. Shrinking aquifers in the southwest U.S. have caused cities such as Houston and Phoenix, and the areas around them, to sink by more than a foot. Officials there have had to restrict and even ban the use of groundwater and require cities to use surface water. That’s also happening in parts of the Mississippi Embayment, especially in eastern Arkansas, which produces half the nation’s rice. The primary aquifer used for agriculture in the embayment is the expansive but relatively shallow Mississippi River Valley Alluvial Aquifer or MRVAA. It isn’t protected by a layer of clay. It sits 20-150 feet underground, stretching out across large areas of Arkansas, Mississippi, and Louisiana, where it supplies about 90 percent of the water used for irrigation. The MRVAA has fallen to less than 10 percent of capacity in some areas, according to Arkansas state officials. More than twice as much water is being pumped annually from that
aquifer as rainfall and other sources put back. Last spring, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers broke ground on two projects aimed at reducing depletion of the MRVAA by diverting as much as one billion gallons of water a day from the White River. “These projects will help reduce reliance on dwindling groundwater while also supporting agriculture, increasing municipal water supplies, and boosting economic stability throughout the region,” the Corps said in a statement. Not everyone agrees. The National Wildlife Federation notes that White River water will be distributed to fewer than a thousand farms in four rural counties through a 650-mile system of pumps, pipelines and canals. “This ill-conceived Grand Prairie Area Demonstration Project — one of several Corps projects proposed to tap the White River — would permanently alter the river’s complex hydrology,” the federation said in a statement. “Reduced river flows would threaten internationally acclaimed wetlands and degrade water quality throughout the river basin.” Shrinking aquifers can cause other long-term problems. When a well pumps, a “cone of depression” forms around that well. When the well turns off and water levels remain below their original level, potential overuse is indicated. The depressed areas start pulling in “younger” water from nearby rivers, streams, and shallow aquifers that often are contaminated. That’s of particular concern around here. PHOTOGRAPHS BY HOUSTON COFIELD
A 1990 study by the U.S.G.S. found “hydrogeologic windows” — natural gaps or breaches in the thick layer of clay that protects the Memphis Sand Aquifer from contaminants in soil, surface water, and shallow groundwater (the so-called Shallow Aquifer) above it. Subsequent studies indicated there were at least six natural breaches in the clay under Shelby County that could allow contamination to “leak” from shallow groundwater directly into the Memphis Sand. In 2023, CAESAR staff and graduate students completed a five-year, $5 million study of the aquifer, commissioned by MLGW. The study confirmed seven breaches and identified 35 other suspected breaches. It also detected “modern water” (water that has been in the aquifer less than 60 years) in six of the seven MLGW wellfields that were studied. MLGW draws aquifer water from 10 wellfields in Shelby County. “The clay is thinner than we thought,” says Brian Waldron, a civil engineer and director of CAESER. “It looks more like Swiss cheese, and the breaches make our water vulnerable to contamination, especially from contaminated water in the Shallow Aquifer.” The Shallow Aquifer — not to be confused with the much larger MRVAA across the river — isn’t protected by a layer of clay in some areas. It’s near the surface and covers much of Shelby County and West Tennessee along the river and near the surface. “Water from the Shallow Aquifer can leak downward through these breaches and enter the Memphis aquifer,” CAESER reported. There are approximately 200 known chemical contamination sites across Shelby County. Ten of them are federally recognized Superfund Sites in active remediation. That doesn’t include nearly 1,000 places where underground storage tanks (gas, oil, ink, etc.) have leaked. “We once thought the Shallow Aquifer was unimportant, but now we believe that it’s a vital factor in the quantity and quality of the Memphis aquifer,” Waldron says. CAESER is working on a new five-year, $9.75 million aquifer study, funded by the city, state, and MLGW. The goals are to find, measure, monitor, and learn more about all breaches in the protective clay under Shelby County. Staff and students also want to learn more about how water and contaminants move — and how quickly — from the surface into the Shallow Aquifer, and then into the Memphis Sand Aquifer. “We’re a lot more concerned about water quality than water quantity,” Waldron says.
O U C A N WA L K on the Memphis Sand. I did it years ago on a canoe trip on the Ghost River, an eight-mile section of the Wolf River that widens into a spooky cypress swamp in western Fayette County. The swamp is in the Memphis aquifer’s “recharge zone,” a low-lying stretch of West Tennessee and North Mississippi where the Great Sand Box rises to the surface to absorb rainwater and surface water and replenish itself. Early on the trip, the guide had us get out of our canoes and stand ankle-deep in spongy sand deposited here by the sea millions of years ago. I didn’t see the ghost of Elvis, but I was walking on Memphis. “Amazing, isn’t it?” asks Ward Archer Jr., co-founder of Protect Our Aquifer and a veteran of many outdoor adventures in the Memphis Sand recharge zone. (Editor’s note: Ward Archer, a board member of this magazine’s parent company, did not coerce us, financially or otherwise, into writing this objectively important story.) “You feel like you’re standing on the edge of an ocean you can’t see. Imagine what would happen to all that water if the recharge land
was covered with concrete and construction?” It doesn’t take much imagination. The sweet spot in our aquifer’s recharge zone happens to be in the most rapidly developing parts of Shelby, Fayette, and Haywood counties in West Tennessee, as well as growing parts of Marshall and Benton counties across the Mississippi state line. Archer first visited the area more than 30 years ago when he agreed to help raise funds for the Wolf River Conservancy. Larry Smith, the conservancy’s first executive director, took Archer to Baker’s Pond, the largest spring-fed source of the Wolf River — and a prime recharge area for the aquifer. “I baptized Ward in the waters,” Smith jokes. “I told him: I’m doing the Wolf; you’ve got the aquifer.” Much of the Wolf River basin lies in the aquifer’s recharge zone, meandering more than 100 miles through bottomland hardwood forests, cypress-tupelo swamps, and open marshes before it reaches the Mississippi River in downtown Memphis. The basin is part of the much larger Lower Mississippi River drainage system, once the largest forest and wetland ecosystem in North America. What happened? Civilization happened. Forests were cleared, S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 43
The Blue Print puts it more bluntly: “Overuse (of the aquifer) coupled with rapid rural development threatens to seal off recharge areas with pavement and rooftops, cutting off the aquifer’s natural lifeline.”
wetlands drained, streams and rivers straightened, leveed, and dammed to make way for farms, cities, suburbs, and exurbs. Developers continue to cover thousands of acres of the recharge zone with subdivisions, commercial areas, distribution warehouses, and manufacturing plants. That includes the 3,300-acre, $5.6 billion Ford Blue Oval City complex in Haywood County. The company plans to start assembling gas-powered pickups in 2029 and use more than a million gallons of aquifer water every day in the process. But company and state officials have been working with Protect Our Aquifer and CAESER to mitigate the impact. The company has pledged to use aquifer water only for human consumption, and to treat wastewater and recycle it back to the factory or pipe it 37 miles into the Mississippi River. The company has developed a wellhead protection program that includes monitoring wells, sealed factory floors, and containment basins to protect local soils and the aquifer. The company also plans to spend $16 million to restore a nearby stream and several acres of wetlands. West Tennessee’s 200,000 acres of wetlands do not only help recharge the Memphis aquifer. They soak up floodwaters and protect the Mississippi Flyway, a vital migration corridor for 40 percent of North America’s waterfowl and 60 percent of U.S. bird species. The Wolf River Conservancy has preserved 20,000 acres along that river’s watershed, including 768 acres of wetlands east of Collierville purchased late last year by the conservancy and Ducks Unlimited. But conservation efforts are fighting heavy currents. Last year, developers lobbied state legislators to let landowners drain and fill “isolated wetlands” smaller than an acre in size. That category includes 44 • 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 6
about 80 percent of all wetlands in the area. Earlier this year, legislators rejected a proposal to fund a complete geologic mapping of West Tennessee groundwater, including “breaches” in the aquifer’s protective clay layer, and the entire 12-county recharge zone. Middle and East Tennessee were mapped with TVA funds decades ago. Only about one percent of the freshwater in the Great Lakes is replenished each year by rain and snow, runoff from rivers and streams, and groundwater inflows. No one knows exactly how or how quickly our aquifer is being replenished. Scientists are working to find out. A few miles from the Ghost River, researchers for the U of M and CAESER have been studying the aquifer’s recharge zone along Pinewood Creek, a sandy, spring-fed stream that flows into the Wolf. A few years ago, they reported an astonishing discovery. “Only a small portion” of the 12-county recharge zone quickly recharges the Memphis Sand Aquifer at a meaningful rate. “For many years, scientists assumed that the entire mapped area of the recharge zone allowed water to flow easily into the aquifer,” they noted. “The majority of actual, efficient recharge occurs in stream valleys and gullies with sandy bottoms rather than across flat, elevated upland terraces.” Streams and gullies that flow through bottomland forests, swamps, and marshes into the Wolf, Hatchie, and Nonconnah rivers. Streams and gullies and swamps that replenish the Memphis Sand. “As such, the sustainability of the aquifer ... may be highly sensitive to alteration of land use that affects the access to preferential pathways of recharge,” reported the researchers. They included Waldron, Daniel Larsen, and Scott Schoefernacker.
A D M I T. I didn’t pay much attention to the aquifer until I started seeing the signs. Around a decade ago, they seemed to pop up everywhere: blue-and-white yard signs bearing a simple yet profoundly important message: Protect Our Aquifer. The signs announced the launch of a local nonprofit organization. They also gave us Memphians a wake-up call. It’s our aquifer — and our responsibility. “We can’t wait for someone else to do this for us,” says Sarah Houston, who became Protect Our Aquifer’s executive director in 2021. Houston first saw the signs as she and her husband, Patrick, were biking through Memphis in September 2017. The two Texans were on the final leg of an 8,000-mile bicycle trip for “Wander Like Water,” a YouTube channel they created to explore water issues across the U.S. They stopped in Memphis on their way down the Mississippi to record their 29th episode. They talked to Zach Cook from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers about the river. They talked to CAESER’s Waldron about the aquifer. “This was at the start of Protect Our Aquifer,” Houston remembers. “I saw the blue yard signs and read all about the campaign against TVA’s wells.” In 2016, the county health department, which oversees such things, gave TVA a permit to drill five deep wells into the aquifer. TVA wanted to draw millions of gallons of water a day to cool its new $1 billion power plant in southwest Memphis. The new plant uses natural gas to generate electricity. That’s better for the environment than the coal the old plant had burned — thousands of tons of coal a day, for decades. In the process, the plant produced tons of coal ash, a toxic substance that contains mercury, cadmium, and arsenic. TVA mixed the coal ash with water and dumped it into unlined ponds on their property.
Insurance is our something. Community is our everything. But the coal ash ponds were near at least one major breach in the layer of clay that protects the Memphis Sand from the shallow groundwater above it. “If TVA had used their wells — pumping water constantly right next to the coal ash pits — they would have pulled the arsenic and other contaminants in the coal ash ponds down into our drinking water supply,” Archer explains. The Tennessee chapter of the Sierra Club had been pushing TVA for years to close the coal-fired plant and clean up the ash ponds, and the group took on the TVA wells. The Sierra Club’s Scott Banbury asked the Shelby County Groundwater Control Board to rescind TVA’s drilling permit. Then he asked Archer to help him raise community awareness and support. Together they hosted a public meeting on the matter in October 2016. “This is the first time ever that the issuance of a water well permit has been appealed,” Banbury told those assembled. “We have no idea what will happen.” The Groundwater Control Board was established in 1987, a few years after contamination was detected in municipal water wells in South Memphis and Collierville. The board’s stated mission is to “secure, protect, and preserve the quality and quantity of groundwater.” But board members said their hands were tied by weak or nonexistent regulations on well-drilling. They voted 7-0 in favor of TVA. “We were gobsmacked,” says Jim Kovarik, one of the aquifer advocates who attended the groundwater board’s November 2016 hearing. “We thought everyone wanted to protect the aquifer. When we realized what was happen-
ing, we decided to keep at it.” They kept at it by forming Protect Our Aquifer, and Kovarik became the group’s first executive director. In 2017, TVA reported finding arsenic at 300 times the legal limit in groundwater near the coal ash ponds. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation ordered TVA not to use the new wells and to investigate further. In 2018, TVA reported that a “pump test” of two new wells revealed a “hydraulic connection” between the contaminated shallow groundwater and the Memphis Sand. Later that year, TVA scrapped plans to use their own wells and started buying aquifer water directly from MLGW, drawing millions of gallons a day. TVA is one of MLGW’s largest water customers. “That still means they’re using aquifer drinking water to cool the power plant,” Kovarik says. “That’s better than using their own wells, but not by much. The more aquifer pumping in that area, the higher likelihood that toxic chemicals will be pulled down into our drinking water supply.” The fight goes on. Under Houston’s leadership, Protect Our Aquifer has kept the pressure on TVA and other large local industries to use treated river water or recycled wastewater rather than aquifer water to cool their plants. The Shelby County Well Code requires that industries — including massive data centers, like Elon Musk’s “Colossus 1” in South Memphis — reuse water for cooling, but the code isn’t enforced. “Enforcing the ban on single-pass cooling water and requiring old and new manufacturing facilities to invest in water efficiency technology will save billions of gallons of aquifer water,” The Blue Print says.
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Meanwhile, Protect Our Aquifer continues to grow in size and influence. The organization now has three full-time staffers, including a science director, Schoefernacker, a hydrogeologist recruited from CEASER. They also have four part-time employees and plan to add two more full-time staffers this year. The nonprofit has trained 35 “Water Warriors,” local citizens who complete a 10-week course on how to advocate for the aquifer. Twenty more people are expected to take the course this fall. The organization has led 17 “Toxic Tours” of local areas where toxic chemicals spilled or buried in the ground have already contaminated the aquifer, or threaten to do so. Since it took on TVA in 2016, Protect Our Aquifer has continued to battle those threats. In 2018, they led a coalition with the Wolf River Conservancy and the Sierra Club to stop construction of a private hazardous waste landfill in a neighborhood along the Wolf River in North Memphis. In 2020, they helped to stop two manufacturers in Collierville — Carrier and Smalley-Piper — from injecting treated, though still contaminated, groundwater back into the aquifer. In 2021, they joined a coalition to stop construction of a 49-mile crude oil pipeline through South Memphis neighborhoods and a vulnerable aquifer wellfield. The coalition was led by another nonprofit, Memphis Community Against the (Byhalia) Pipeline. In 2022, they led another coalition that weakened the state legislature’s attempt to override local laws that block environmentally hazardous projects such as the Byhalia Pipeline. In 2022, they worked with NASA to confirm that Ford’s Blue Oval site lies in the Memphis Sand recharge zone. And since 2023, they have led the West TN H2O Delegation, which meets quarterly to discuss Blue Oval’s environmental impact and plan ways to protect the aquifer and nearby streams and wetlands. The delegation includes Ford, MLGW, CAESER, several federal, state and local agencies, and organizations such as the Sierra Club and Ducks Unlimited. Among other measures, the group is working to build a groundwater monitoring network across West Tennessee. “At this point, it really does not exist except in Shelby County,” Houston says. “How can you manage an aquifer system without knowing how much water you have? It’s like managing your bank account without knowing the balance.” In 2024, Protect Our Aquifer worked with the Groundwater Board to increase private well permit fees for the first time in nearly four decades. The additional revenue will be used to help the health department test and monitor more than 800 private wells that tap the aquifer. Since 2024, they’ve been working with other nonprofits to put pressure on SpaceXAI to build a wastewater recycling plant to cool its
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supercomputer data centers next door to the TVA power plant. (So far, despite promises to the contrary, Musk’s AI company continues to use drinkable aquifer water to cool its data operation in Memphis.) In 2025, they worked with legislators to protect larger wetlands from development. Over the years, Protect Our Aquifer has become more than a group of concerned citizens. Staff and board members have attended and recorded every Groundwater Board meeting since the TVA permit hearing in 2016. Houston and Schoefernacker have developed constructive working relationships with the health department’s water quality branch and with members of the Groundwater Board. “Groundwater is not regulated at the federal level,” says Schoefernacker. “And unlike land use, groundwater use is not overseen by an elected government body. We’ve got to build our own expertise, pay attention to all of the ways in which the aquifer is vulnerable, and work with all interested parties.” Last spring, Protect Our Aquifer presented to the board The Blue Print, a proposal to create the county’s first groundwater protection plan. When the board was established in 1987, it was charged with creating a “Groundwater Protection Plan” for Shelby County. Almost 40 years later, no plan exists. A new Groundwater Protection Committee is now developing one. The committee includes representatives from Protect Our Aquifer, CAESER, and the health department. They are using The Blue Print as their, well, blueprint. “We must begin treating and managing the Memphis Sand Aquifer as the foundation of our livelihoods, because it truly is,” says The Blue Print. As of early August, despite promises to the contrary, SpaceXAI is using an estimated 800,000 to 3 million gallons of Memphis aquifer water every single day. And more data centers are expected. Local industries pay 19 cents per gallon compared to the 32 cents residents pay. That’s hundreds of millions of gallons a year of fresh, cool, clean Memphis Sand water.
T ’ S R A I N I N G A S I write this. Only four major U.S. cities get rained on more than Memphis each year. When it rains here, it pours, replenishing rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, wetlands, and aquifers. Replenishing — and contaminating. Water is nature’s solvent. Rainwater rinses manmade toxins — fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides, oil and gas, hard metals, and so on — out of our air, off our streets and parking lots and rooftops, and into our soils, surface water, and groundwater.
Here in Shelby County, rainwater that doesn’t evaporate or isn’t absorbed by soil or plants is directed by roads, curbs, gutters, drains, ditches, culverts, and pipes into the Wolf River or Nonconnah Creek watersheds — which are constantly exchanging water with the Memphis Sand. “The truth is, we’re all contaminating our drinking water,” Larry Smith says. “The issue is whether we’re going to do what’s necessary to protect the aquifer system that collects, cleans, and filters it naturally and for free. Or whether we’re going to overwhelm and ruin that system and start paying a lot more to do it ourselves.” Smith was a member of the Blue Stream Task Force, former Memphis Mayor A C Wharton’s short-lived effort to address the three biggest threats to the Memphis Sand Aquifer: Contamination, consumption, and competition. “We have an abundance of water, but it’s not something that’s going to take care of itself,” Wharton told local scientists, environmentalists, engineers, and business and government leaders in 2016. “We have to be vigilant about how we use it and how we protect it. The quantity and the quality.” The Blue Stream Task Force dried up after Wharton left office in 2017. Legislators talked about establishing a Memphis Sand Aquifer Regional Management Board “for the purpose of managing, conserving, preserving, and protecting the Memphis Sand aquifer, and increasing the recharge of such aquifer while preventing waste or pollution in the aquifer.” It didn’t happen. “All water problems are local,” the journalist Charles Fishman wrote in The Big Thirst, his brilliant 2011 book. “There is no global water crisis because all water problems are local or regional, and their solutions must be local or regional.” Memphis has proven that more than once. The deadly Yellow Fever epidemics of the 1870s left Memphis bankrupt, bereft, and thirsty for clean water. Back then, the city’s drinking water came from cisterns, shallow wells, and the Wolf River. In 1887, Richard C. Graves, who sold ice, drilled a hole 354 feet into the ground along Court Street and struck sand. Memphis Sand. Cold, clean groundwater from the ancient aquifer gushed into the air. The city had a new source of drinking water. Exactly 100 years later, county officials established the Shelby County Ground Water Quality Control Board “to carry out a comprehensive aquifer protection program.” For the first time, rules and regulations were established to control local access to our aquifer. Nearly 40 years later, it’s still a work in progress. Shelby County is the only county in Tennessee with the authority to manage its own groundwater. That authority was vested in the Groundwater Board, but most of the responsibility was given to the county health department. S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 49
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“In the early years it had more to do with protecting the aquifer from illegal wells that could poison the water,” says Claudia Haltom, the former Juvenile Court magistrate. Haltom, then a county attorney, and Helyn Keith, the health department’s attorney, wrote the original legislation. “Anybody digging a well without a permit was to be prosecuted. That discouraged the well-diggers from this. When wells were illegally dug, the county made the owner plug the well. It was a tightly enforced violation. Keeping the aquifer safe and clean was always a concern.” It still is. The health department’s five-person Water Quality Branch and Septic Tank Program water quality branch is charged with the daily enforcement of the Shelby County Well Construction Code. That includes issuing permits for all wells not owned and operated by MLGW and other local utilities. Well permits are automatically denied for Class A wells “designed to withdraw 250 gallons per minute or more from the aquifer.” The Groundwater Board hears the appeals. But the board’s 11 appointed members meet only four times a year. “The Groundwater Board has broad authority to create groundwater protection programs that would be funded and carried out through the health department, although they have primarily convened to hear appeals regarding well permits,” says The Blue Print. The Blue Print wants to empower the Groundwater Board and beef up the health department’s water code enforcement. The board’s new Groundwater Protection Committee is focusing on three priorities: 1. Digitizing the health department’s more than 60,000 pages of paper records on all private wells and septic systems. 2. Developing a countywide wellhead protection program that regulates land use and drilling around all wellheads, contamination sites, and recharge areas. 3. Establishing a countywide monitoring well program that provides regular, consistent, and widespread monitoring and sampling of water quality in the more than 800 non-municipal wells. The Blue Print says the need for a comprehensive Groundwater Protection Plan is obvious. “Everyone recognizes there is something precious we all share: clean water beneath our feet,” says The Blue Print. “Tennessee’s foundational water law is built on this powerful idea, a public trust doctrine declaring that groundwater belongs to all of us. This principle is strongly supported by other state and local laws affirming our right to abundant, clean water.” DAV I D WAT E R S is a longtime Memphis journalist and associate director emeritus for the Institute for Public Service Reporting at the University of Memphis.
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PRESIDENT’S LETTER
T
H E M E M P H I S A S S O C I AT I O N of
Independent Schools (MAIS) is proud to represent 34 of the region’s most distinguished independent schools. Each institution brings its own distinct identity and educational philosophy, yet all are united by a shared commitment to fostering academic excellence, supporting the individual needs of each student, and cultivating a vibrant, inclusive school community. ¶ In the greater Memphis area, families are fortunate to have a wide array of educational options, including public, charter, and independent schools. Within this landscape, independent schools stand out for their personalized learning environments, strong community values, and forward-thinking approaches designed to prepare students not just for college, but for life. Each member school of MAIS is fully autonomous, with its own mission, governing board of directors, and unique educational approach. Independent schools chart their own curricular paths, build programs around their specific values, and tailor learning experiences to meet the needs of their unique student populations. Among MAIS member schools, you’ll find schools that serve particular age groups, offer single-gender education, uphold specific faith traditions, or specialize in addressing unique learning needs. Despite their differences, all MAIS schools are deeply committed to developing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and personal growth in every student. The freedom that independent schools enjoy allows them to design and implement innovative, student-centered curricula. With smaller class sizes, teachers can offer meaningful
McKenzie Cohen President
individual attention, identify each student’s strengths and learning styles, and support their academic and personal development. These close student-teacher relationships are foundational to an independent school experience, creating an environment where students feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive. MAIS schools are committed to developing well-rounded individuals. Students have access to a wide range of extracurricular opportunities from athletics and the arts to leadership programs and club activities. They also engage deeply with their communities through service work. Whether required as part of a school’s mission or embraced as a personal commitment, community service is a hallmark of MAIS schools, helping students become thoughtful, active citizens. Independent schools serve students from a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds. At
Daniel Weiss Vice President
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Andy Surber Secretary
many MAIS schools, tuition support is available through scholarships, financial aid, and flexible payment options. A number of MAIS schools also participate in state programs such as the Education Savings Account (ESA) and the Education Freedom Scholarship (EFS), helping to make private education accessible to more families. When considering a school, families are encouraged to reflect on more than just academics. The best school fit comes down to alignment between a family’s values and a school’s mission, approach, and culture. It’s important to ask: Does this school offer the kind of community, learning environment, and opportunities that will help my child thrive? As you explore this publication, we invite you to learn more about the exceptional schools that make up the Memphis Association of Independent Schools. We are proud to partner with Memphis Magazine to provide a list of available MAIS options. The Memphis Association of Independent Schools is honored to serve the families of the Mid-South and to support the families who choose the dynamic, values-driven education our schools provide. We welcome you to schedule a visit, tour our campuses, and experience firsthand what makes our schools truly special. We look forward to meeting you! mckenzie b. cohen President Memphis Association of Independent Schools
Brad Sewell Treasurer
John Murphy Past President
EDUCATING MINDS. ENGAGING HEARTS. EQUIPPING DISCIPLES. A lifetime of potential awaits your family at the Mid-South’s only Christian K2-12 private school located all on one convenient campus.
START YOUR JOURNEY HERE
Experience The Briarcrest Advantage for yourself at an upcoming Open House, or schedule your personal tour today. We look forward to meeting you!
ELEMENTARY OPEN HOUSE
MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE
ELEMENTARY OPEN HOUSE
SCHOOL-WIDE OPEN HOUSE
SCHOOL-WIDE OPEN HOUSE
October 20 9:30am
October 22 6:00pm
November 17 6:00pm
February 7 2:00pm
April 4 2:00pm
CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
MAIS | 2026
A CONVERSATION WITH MCKENZIE B. COHEN What are independent schools and what sets them apart from public schools? Independent schools are private school organizations governed by an individual Board of Trustees. Each independent school has a unique school mission and autonomy over their own curriculum and educational experiences. Independent schools offer a wide variety of extracurricular activities, sports, and leadership development opportunities which vary per school. Additionally, independent schools typically have smaller student teacher ratios yielding smaller class sizes and the opportunity for an individualized approach to meeting student academic and developmental needs both in and out of the classroom. What is the process for creating an independent school curriculum? Each independent school is responsible for developing a curriculum that reflects the unique needs of its students and school community. The curriculum is guided by the school’s mission, educational philosophy, and desired student outcomes. It is designed to prepare students for the next stage of their education while equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and character
needed for success in college, their careers, and life. As student needs and educational best practices evolve, schools review and refine their curriculum to ensure it remains relevant and effective. What has inspired your role as an education leader? I am consistently inspired by our students and their families. Every day, I am reminded that education has the power to change the trajectory of a life. Our students are the future of Memphis, and when we provide them with an outstanding educational experience, we are investing in the future of our city. Seeing them grow into confident, capable leaders who will serve their communities gives me hope and motivates me to do this work every day. How should parents research financial aid and when should they start the paperwork? Many independent schools offer limited need-based financial aid and scholarships to students whose families qualify based on the eligibility requirements communicated by each individual school. When available, financial aid allows a parent to pay a modified tuition based on a demonstrated economic need. Different schools have different financial
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aid eligibility requirements and timelines. The question of financial aid should be a part of your school tour or inquiry with the admissions department. Schools may use third-party vendors to determine what level of aid is right for each child and this would require an online application and fee to apply for financial aid. Many independent schools are participating in the Educational Savings Account (ESA) and the Education Freedom Scholarship (EFS), which are state programs that offer tuition assistance for eligible students who are enrolled at participating schools. M.O.S.T. (Memphis Opportunity Scholarship Trust) is also a popular need-based program that gives hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships each year. Parents who intend to take part in the state scholarship programs will need to apply within the state-specified application window, which was in January 2026 for EFS and February 2026 for ESA. Parents are encouraged to check the Tennessee Department of Education website for application window dates for the 2027-2028 school year. Do you have any advice for prospective students and parents? My advice for prospective students and parents is to
engage in the process of looking for an independent school early and work directly with the admissions department to ensure that your questions are answered and you feel comfortable with your choice of school for your child. There are 34 MAIS school options in 19 different zip codes across the Mid-South for families to consider and each school is unique. I believe there is an independent school that is the right fit for every interested family. What’s the most common misconception regarding independent schools? One of the most common misconceptions is that all independent schools are the same. In reality, each independent school has its own mission, educational philosophy, culture, and approach to teaching and learning. Families should take the time to explore what makes each school unique by considering its mission and values, academic program, daily schedule, location, extracurricular opportunities, and school culture. Families should also become familiar with each school’s tuition, fees, and financial aid process. While tuition information is typically available on a school’s website, admission teams are eager to answer questions, provide campus tours, and help families determine whether the school is the right fit for their child. Finding the right independent school is about much more than comparing tuition or academic results; it’s about finding a community where a student can thrive.
A positive and unifying SCHOOL CULTURE Lausanne develops the individual talents, intellects, creativity and character of boys and girls through innovative teaching strategies and passionate and engaged learning within our diverse PK2 through 12th grade International Baccalaureate setting. Rigorous academics for the individual student help us build confident leaders ready to make the world a better place. Celebrating 100 years of the Lausanne Way.
1381 West Massey Road, Memphis, TN | 901.474.1030 | admission@lausanneschool.com | lausanneschool.com
New Hope Christian Academy
3000 University Street, Memphis, TN 38127 901.358.3183 • admissions@newhopememphis.org • newhopememphis.org
Teaching. Learning. Discipleship.
New Hope Christian Academy (NHCA) is an urban, college-preparatory school in the heart of Memphis’ Frayser community. It serves over 450 students from 3 years old to eighth grade. NHCA provides a rigorous, Christ-centered education based on three pillars: teaching, learning, and discipleship. NHCA offers unique learning experiences like our STEM SmartLab and Urban Farm and Forest for hands-on learning. Our Alumni Support Office fosters ongoing relationships, helping graduates pursue high school, college, and their God-given vocations. In addition to supporting students beyond the eighth grade, NHCA ensures they have the resources and encouragement they need to thrive throughout their college years and beyond. The admissions process for students in early childhood, elementary and middle school begins in November. NHCA offers financial aid to eligible families and accepts Tennessee’s Education Freedom Scholarships (EFS) and Education Savings Accounts (ESA). After 30 years of academic excellence, NHCA is expanding its proven model of Christ-centered education into middle school, allowing students to continue building on the strong foundation established in their early childhood and elementary years. NHCA has expanded to middle school, adding seventh grade in the 2026–27 school year and eighth grade in 2027–28. The current sixth-grade class will make history as NHCA’s founding middle school cohort, becoming the school’s first seventh-grade class in 2026–27. The middle school program includes courses such as Pre-Algebra, Honors Algebra I, STEM, foreign language, band, and leadership labs, along with other challenging academic opportunities that prepare students for high school and beyond.
St. Mary’s Episcopal School
60 Perkins Extended, Memphis, TN 38117 901.537.1405 • admissions@stmarysschool.org • stmarysschool.org
For Girls. For Life.
From age 2 through 12th grade, St. Mary’s Episcopal School is intentionally designed around one simple belief: girls thrive when they are the focus. As Tennessee’s #1 girls school, every teacher, every classroom, and every opportunity is created to help girls develop confidence, embrace challenges, and discover their unique potential. The results speak for themselves. Girls’ school graduates are 6x more likely to consider majoring in math, science, and technology than coeducational school graduates. Ninety-three percent say they were given greater leadership opportunities, and 80% have held leadership positions since graduating from high school. For nearly 180 years, St. Mary’s has prepared girls to lead lives of purpose, curiosity, and courage. Here, girls find their voices, pursue their passions, and discover they are capable of more than they ever imagined. Experience the difference of an education designed for girls. Join us at one of our upcoming admissions events. 58 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 2026 MAIS GUIDE
Early Childhood & Lower School Parent Preview: Thursday, October 15, 8:30–10 a.m. Early Childhood Center Playdate: Tuesday, October 27, 4–5 p.m. Middle & Upper School Open House: Wednesday, November 11, 8:15–10 a.m.
Westminster Academy
2520 Ridgeway Road, Memphis, 38119 901.380.9192 • info@wamemphis.com • wamemphis.com What is the purpose of education? Admission to college? High test scores? Or something greater? At Westminster Academy, we equip students to pursue God’s truth, goodness, and beauty in the world around them — all while preparing them for any path they choose upon graduation. The purpose of a classical Christian education is to train the soul to love that which is worth loving. We aim to instill this love of learning through hands-on experience, classroom discussions, joyful play, and involvement in the community. Our students experience God’s beauty and goodness through rich literature selections and in service of others. They delve into His truths through deep discussions in the classroom, and make connections to the wider world while traveling both domestically and abroad during the Upper School years. Through programs like our House system, athletics, and the Protocol course, we strive to cultivate healthy competition, wisdom, and virtue in our students, further equipping them to love and honor their neighbors and fellow students. As a result, Westminster faculty and parents create a unique community with one goal: to graduate well-prepared students who have a love for learning and for the Lord. We invite you to reconsider the purpose of education, and discover the beauty of a classical Christian education!
Bodine School
2432 Yester Oaks Dr., Germantown, TN 38139 901.754.1800 • bodineschool.org communications@bodineschool.org
Bodine School serves students in grades 1-5 who have been diagnosed with dyslexia. The core curriculum at all grade levels focuses on fundamental skills in language arts and 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.
St. Francis of Assisi School
2100 Germantown Pkwy • Cordova, TN 38016 901.388.73218 • sfawolves.org St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School educates students, grades 2K through 8, 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 18 Valedictorians, 15 Salutatorians, 20 National Merit Finalists and 32 National Merit Commended Scholars from a variety of elite Memphis area high schools. SFA has been on the leading edge of integrating technology into the clas sroom 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 join SFA School? 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.
Open House: October 13, 5-7 PM • February 2, 9-11 AM 2026 MAIS GUIDE • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 59
THIS IS THE PLACE
CBHS DISCOVERY DAYS O C T 13 A N D 15 | N O V 10 | D E C 3 CBHS.ORG/DISCOVER
d i s c ov e r w h e r e t h e b r o t h e r h o o d c a n ta k e h i m .
PARTNERING WITH PARENTS. BUILDING FOR LIFE. At ECS, we are teaching the whole child - academically, athletically, creatively, socially and spiritually - and equipping each of our students through intentional discipleship to become godly leaders in their homes, churches, careers and communities.
JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE! September 22 Lower School (age 2-3rd grade)
October 1 Shelby Farms (grades 4-12)
REGISTER TODAY!
ecseagles.com | 901.754.7217
60 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 2026 MAIS GUIDE
DUAL ENROLLMENT | STEAM | FINE ARTS | ATHLETICS | CO-ED
Preparing Hearts & Minds for a liftime of Christian service.
Plan your visit! P Pl
8650 Walnut Grove Road | Cordova | 38018 | 901.458.5543 | facsmemphis.org
From to Stop by for a visit to see how we move students from information to transformation.
First-Look Mornings Thurs. 9/24 & Wed. 10/28 8:30 a.m. | Grades K–12
OPEN HOUSE Sunday, November 1
2:00 p.m. | Grades K–12
hardinglions.org/visit | 901-767-4494 2026 MAIS GUIDE • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 61
Coed ∙ Midtown ∙ 18 Months to 8th Grade An Anchor for Life Preschool Preview Day: Sept. 23
BUILDING A BOLD AND BR IGHT FUTURE Our 105,000-square-foot Arts and Sciences Center will open in 2027.
BOYS GRADES 6-12 (901) 260-1300 MUSOWLS.ORG
Rendering by The Crump Firm - Architects
62 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 2026 MAIS GUIDE
Igniting curiosity. Inspiring boys. PDS classrooms are built the way boys learn best: hands-on, high-energy, and full of questions. Here, curiosity isn’t managed—it’s celebrated, and it shapes every lesson we teach.
Presbyterian Day School Presbyterian Day School
Presbyterian Day Sch Where boys thrive.
Come E
CHALLENGED. EVERY DAY. Exceptional teaching begins with knowing every student—knowing when to challenge and when to encourage. It’s in that balance that meaningful growth happens. Through rigorous academics, meaningful relationships, and high expectations, students become confident thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and purposeful leaders.
VISIT ST. GEORGE’S.
LOWER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE | Grades PK-5 Monday, October 27 MIDDLE & UPPER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE | Grades 6-12 Tuesday, October 28
SGIS.org/visit 2026 MAIS GUIDE • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 63
MAIS | 2026
MEMPHIS ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS 2026 Bodine School ¡ Bornblum Jewish Community School ¢ Briarcrest Christian School £
Christ Methodist Day School Christ the King Lutheran School
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Collegiate School of Memphis Concord Academy
Fayette Academy First Assembly Christian School Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School
MAIS | 2026 Harding Academy of Memphis 1100 Cherry Rd., 38117 • 767-4494 • hardinglions.org • Student body: coed • Grades: K-12th • Tuition: $13,595$19,995 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 699 (Fall 2025); 7:1 • Religious affiliation: Christian • Before- and after- school care: yes. Additional Location: Little Harding, 1106 Colonial, 38117 • 767-2093 • Grades: Age 6 weeks-Jr. K Hutchison School 1740 Ridgeway, 38119 • 761-2220 • hutchisonschool.org • Student body: female • Grades: PK2-12 • Tuition: $6,990-$28,980 • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio: 792; 7:1 (Fall 2025) • Religious affiliation: nonsectarian • Before- and after-school care: yes
Memphis University School 6191 Park, 38119 • 260-1300 • musowls. org • Student body: male • Grades: 7-12 • Tuition: $26,800 • Studentfaculty ratio: 7:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational • Before- and after-school care: after only
St. Agnes Academy 4830 Walnut Grove, 38117 • 767-1377 • saa-sds.org • Student body: female • Grades: 2K-12 (girls) • Tuition: $9,200$23,725 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 796; 9:1 • Religious affiliation: Catholic • Before- and after-school care: yes
New Hope Christian Academy 3000 University St., 38127 • 358-3183 • newhopememphis.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 3 years-6 • Tuition: $12,750 (financial aid available, need-based on a sliding scale) • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 423, 12:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian • Beforeand after-school care: after only, K-7th
St. Benedict at Auburndale High School 8250 Varnavas Drive at Germantown Pkwy., Cordova, 38016 • 260-2840 • sbaeagles.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: 9-12 • Tuition: $17,880-$19,025 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 337; 7:1 • Religious affiliation: Catholic • Before- and after-school care: no
Lamplighter Montessori School 8563 Fay Rd., 38018 • 901-751-2000 • lamplighterschool.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 18 mos.-8 • Tuition: $11,100-$18,700 • Enrollment/ student-faculty ratio: 170 (Fall 2025); 10:1 • Religious affiliation: nonsecular • Before- and after-school care: yes
Northpoint Christian School 7400 Getwell Rd., Southaven, MS, 38672 • 662-349-3096 • ncstrojans. com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PreK3-12 • Tuition: $8,165-$13,675 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 1,046; 15:1 • Religious affiliation: Christian • Before- and after-school care: yes
Lausanne Collegiate School 1381 W. Massey, 38120 • 474-1000 • lausanneschool.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PreK2-12 • Tuition: $15,132-$31,257 • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio: 900; 7:1 • Religious affiliation: nonsectarian • Before- and after-school care: yes
Our Lady of Perpetual Help School 8151 Poplar, Germantown, 38138 • 753-1181 • olphowls. org/ • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PreK 1-8 • Tuition: $5,744$9,321 Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 196, 8:1 (Fall 2025) • Religious affiliation: Catholic • Before- and afterschool care: yes
Madonna Learning Center 7007 Poplar, Germantown, 38138 • madonna-learning.org • 901-7525767 • Ages: 4-40+. • Tuition: $17,628 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 108; 4:1 (lower school program) • Provides individualized education and vocational training for children and adults with special needs.
Presbyterian Day School 4025 Poplar, 38111 • 842-4600 • pdsmemphis.org • Student body: male • Grades: Age YK- 6th • Tuition: $8,480-$26,460 • Enrollment/studentfaculty ratio: 485; 9:1 (Fall 2025) • Religious affiliation: Presbyterian • Before- and after-school care: yes
Margolin Hebrew Academy-Feinstone Yeshiva of the South 390 S. White Station, 38117 • 682-2400 • mhafyos.org • Grades: PreK-12/co-ed (PreK3-8), female (9-12), male (9-12) • Tuition: $8,750$20,950 • Enrollment: 190 • Religious affiliation: Jewish • Before- and after-school care: after only
Rossville Christian Academy 280 High St., Rossville, 38066 • 853-0200 • rossvillechristian.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: PreK-12 • Tuition: $8,791-$12,123 (financial aid available) • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 375; 12:1• Religious affiliation: Interdenominational Christian • Before- and after-school care: Yes
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St. Dominic School 4830 Walnut Grove, 38117 • 767-1377 • saa-sds.org • Student body: male • Grades: 2K-8 • Tuition: $9,200$23,725 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 796; 9:1 • Religious affiliation: Catholic • Before- and after-school care: yes St. Francis of Assisi Catholic School 2100 N. Germantown Pkwy., Cordova, TN 38016 • 901-388-7321 • sfawolves. org/ • Student body: co-ed • Grades: 2K-8 • Tuition: $10,925-$11,475 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 400; 15:1 • 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: PreK-5 Germantown & Memphis locations • Grades: 6-12 at Collierville • Tuition: $18,400-$26,700 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 986 (all locations) (Fall 205); 5:1 • Religious affiliation: Episcopal • Before- and after-school care: yes (PK-8th). Additional Locations: Germantown Campus, 8250 Poplar, 38138 • 2612300 • Grades: PreK-5; Memphis Campus, 3749 Kimball Avenue, 38111 • 261-3920 • Grades: PreK-5
St. Mary’s Episcopal School 60 Perkins Extd., 38117 • 537-1472 • stmarysschool.org • Student body: female • Grades: Age 2 yrs.-12 • Tuition: $5,600-$28,800 • Enrollment/ student-faculty ratio: 783; 8:1 • Religious affiliation: Episcopal • Before- and after-school care: after only Tipton-Rosemark Academy 8696 Rosemark Road, Millington, TN 38053 • 829-6500 • tiptonrosemarkacademy. net • Student body: co-ed • Grades: K2-12 • Tuition $6,479-$11,456 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 698; 18:1 • Religious affiliation: nondenominational Christian • Before- and after-school care: yes Trinity Christian Academy 10 Windy City Rd., Jackson, TN, 38305 • 731-668-8500 • tcalions. com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Pre-K–12 • Tuition: $7,937-$13,717 • RISE/REACH program: $17,000$21,940 • Little Lions: Infants and Toddlers • Tuition: $563-$1,022 Monthly. Little Lion students can enroll in a 10- or 12-month pay plan. Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 650 (Fall 2024); 9:1 • Religious affiliation: Christian, Interdenominational • Before- and after-school care: yes (including holidays) Westminster Academy 2520 Ridgeway Rd., 38119 • 380-9192 • wamemphis.com • Student body: co-ed • Grades: JK-12 • Tuition $8,600$18,875 • Enrollment/student-faculty ratio: 455; 7:1 • Religious affiliation: Classical Christian • Before- and afterschool care: yes Woodland Presbyterian School 5217 Park, 38119 • 685-0976 • woodlandschool.org • Student body: co-ed • Grades: Age 2 years-8 • Tuition: $6,050-$18,850 (Tuition Assistance available) • Enrollment/ student-faculty ratio: 340; 7:1 • Religious affiliation: Presbyterian • Before- and after-school care: yes
Small Steps Lead to Extraordinary Outcomes Walk with us!
10.24.26 | MEMPHIS, TN
WWW.MIDSOUTHHEARTWALK.ORG
Sponsored by:
KPMG Semmes-Murphey Clinic Vascular V Va scular Interventional Physicians University of Tennessee T nnessee Health Te Healt lt l h Science Center
DINING OUT The K are-K are salad is studded with eggplant , bok choy, green beans, and fried tofu and finished with a creamy peanut dressing.
AN EVENING IN THE PHILIPPINES THIS FILIPINO SNACK BAR WILL TRANSPORT YOU TO SOUTHEAST ASIA ON SOUTH MAIN. BY GRACIE DRIVER
T
H E W I N D O W S A N D D O O R S of KUYA were open to bustling South Main Street one evening in August when the air in Memphis felt tropical. With the breeze from a squadron of fans, a summery cocktail in hand, an assortment of boldly flavored food, and vibrant local art all around, I felt buoyed all the way to the Philippines. ¶ Glimpses of the open kitchen to the side of the restaurant revealed the action behind each dish. Servers were straight to the point and helpful with any questions. A mere five tables were available inside, enhancing the intimate atmosphere. For a more sociable crowd, bar seating is available. ¶ An immediate “green flag” for me when trying new restaurants is a small menu. It usually means that the team behind the food has focused on every detail rather than getting lost in a sea of options. I was also excited to see quintessential Filipino ingredients at the forefront.
While KUYA’s selection of beers is strong, I was more tempted by one of their six crafted cocktail options. The #2 contained gin, calamansi (a citrus unique to Southeast Asia), lemon, and lime, with an orange and Sichuan peppercorn foam that was tragically absent from my drink. Sichuan peppercorns notoriously have a tongue-tingling spice and citrusy 68 • 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 6
note that would have made the cocktail pop. The blend of sweet and tart still made for a very enjoyable sip. If you take anything away from this review, order the chicken adobo. At first bite, I couldn’t help but smile. The chicken practically fell off the bone and tasted sweet, salty, savory, and sour all at once. Each order comes
with a side of rice, and although the rice was slightly gloopy in texture, the golden garlicy oil ribbons throughout were delicious. For a bright start to the meal, the Kinilaw is a great option. Similar to ceviche, this traditional raw fish dish is gently cured with coconut vinegar and seasoned with ginger, orange, and creamy coconut milk. I do believe the dish could improve with herbs or other vegetables to add freshness and variety, but the black sesame-studded rice crackers added a fun and crunchy component that was so fun to eat. I didn’t get a chance to try the chicken skewers, but I did get the Jollyburger Lumpia, which was an ode to the very popular Filipino food chain. The shredded prime chuck is combined with mozzarella and a sweet and tangy banana ketchup that becomes the filling for an egg roll-like appetizer. It comes with three dipping sauces; I recommend the sweet chili. I also ordered the Sisig Baboy, a spicy and smoky pork belly dish topped with a raw egg yolk. The interactive element of mixing the yolk with the pork added to the dining experience, but the dish would benefit from rice, vegetables, or both. This would help balance the fattiness of the dish and make it a more well-rounded meal. The Kare Kare Salad is a great big salad perfect for sharing. The spring greens, bok choy, fried tofu, eggplant, and a healthy drizzle of creamy peanut dressing are a combination I would never have thought of on my own, but would certainly order again. The intention behind the tofu is great because it adds a textual contrast. Ultimately, it was slightly chewy by the time it reached the table, but the other components made up for it. This dish would pair well with chicken adobo or their Pancit Kabute, which is a vegan mushroom noodle dish. To round out the night, I got the only dessert option available: Halo-Halo. Now, I take sweet treats very seriously, and although I had heard of the traditional dessert, I’d never had the opportunity to sample it. The base is made from snowy shaved ice, sweetened evaporated milk drizzle, nutty ube ice cream, bright jellies, and the cutest leche flan on top: creamy, refreshing, and exactly what I needed with the weather. I’m coming back to KUYA. A wellpriced restaurant with exciting flavors and great ambiance isn’t easy to come by. KUYA, 327 South Main Street PHOTOGRAPH BY GRACIE DRIVER
SIPS
A STAND-UP GUY
H
E Y, H AV E Y O U H E A R D the one about the
bartender who became a comedian? It’s a funny story — and it belongs to Buddy Jones, who spends his days serving beers at the Flying Saucer downtown and his nights serving up jokes at local comedy venues. The story begins in Mississippi. ¶ “I grew up in Horn Lake and when I was in college at Northwest Mississippi,” says Jones. “I started bartending to help pay the bills — just popping beer bottles and making call drinks at a little bar in Lake Cormorant, Mississippi. After a while, I decided I liked the work and went to Crescent City School of Bartending in Tunica. It was a three-month crash course. They teach you how to make the drinks but they don’t teach you what to do when your bar is nine-deep and guys are banging on it, saying, ‘Let’s GO!”
Jones quickly picked up those other skills via hands-on experience, using his wit and sense of humor to good advantage, and eventually bringing his bartending chops to Beale Street. “I worked for a good while at Jerry Lee Lewis’ place, and that was fun,” says Jones. “Jerry Lee used to do a New Year’s Eve concert at the club, so I got to meet him. I went over and shook his hand and said, ‘Nice to meet you, Mr. Lewis. I’ve heard a lot about you.’ And he looked at me and said, ‘Every bit of it’s true!’ He was a character.” 70 • 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 6
Jones, who’s now lived downtown for 15 years, parlayed his Beale Street gig into other part-time jobs in the area. “I worked at FedExForum for concerts, which was great,” he says. “I got to see a lot of artists, plus a lot of basketball games.” Then four years ago, Jones moved a block north of Beale to the Flying Saucer. It’s been a good change, he says: “I was a customer at the Saucer for years. I even had a beer plate on the wall. After Covid happened and everybody in the service industry was looking for a place
to work, I started over here. It’s been fun.” The change of venue also brought a fortuitous change in working hours. Jones started doing day-shifts at the Saucer, which left his nights free to pursue his other dream: being a comic. “I always wanted to do comedy,” he says, “Now I have nights free, and comedy is something you have to do night-in and night-out. There are open mics; you gotta write; and you gotta be out there.” And Jones is out there. “There are some really good local comedians and there’s an open-mic almost every night of the week in Memphis,” he says. “I like doing stand-up. It’s a personality thing. I like being in front of people and cracking jokes and writing my own stuff.” “What’s been your best comedy night?” I ask. “Probably in a Memphis’s Top Comic show,” he says. “I got into the finals with my best comic friend, John Jolley. We both made it to the roast round.” But even some of the best comics have a day job, and I’m sitting in the Flying Saucer to talk to Jones about that as well. “What are you going to serve me today?” I ask. “We serve cocktails here, but really this place is all about the beer, so I’m going to pour you a Duvel Strong Golden Ale from Belgium,” says Jones. “Only 22 places in the U.S. have Duvel kegs and we’re one of them. We’re required to serve it in a glass that’s especially designed to allow you to smell the foam and be able to drink at the same time, because the beer comes out under the foam. You pour the beer to the middle of the ‘D” on the glass.” Magically, such a glass appears on the bar before me. It tastes rich and smooth and smells like beer in heaven must smell. And it’s got a little punch. “What’s the ABA on this stuff ?” I ask, and Jones tells me it’s 8.5 percent, meaning this is a beer to savor like a fine wine. As I’m doing just that, a group of four or five people walks in the door and starts looking around. They are obviously tourists. “Hey, where are you all from?” Jones asks. “England,” says one of the visitors. “Wow, that’s a long drive,” says Jones. Heyooo! Try the veal. And go see Buddy Jones at the Flying Saucer. He’s a funny guy and he’ll be here all week. Flying Saucer, 130 Peabody Place
CITY DINING
COCOZZA AMERICAN ITALIAN—”The red sauce joint of your dreams” serves up classic Italian-American fare from the owners of Majestic Grille. Closed Sun. 110 Harbor Town Sq., 609-1111. D, $-$$ COZY CORNER—Serving up ribs, pork sandwiches, chicken, spaghetti, and more; also homemade banana pudding. Closed Mon. 735 N. Parkway, 527-9158. L, D, $ CURFEW—An elevated sports bar/American tavern concept by Top Chef contestant Fabio Viviani at the Canopy Memphis Downtown hotel. 164 Union, 467-0308. B, L, D, $-$$ DOCKS OFF FIFTH—Fine dining and special plates, including mango habanero-glazed salmon, seafood linguini, glazed lamb “lollipops,“ lobster rolls, plus wings and sliders. 310 Beale, 423-3765264. D, $$$ ESCO RESTAURANT AND TAPAS—Shareable dishes, turkey ribs, and seafood mac’n’cheese at this 2 Chainz franchise. 156 Lt. George W. Lee, 808-3726. L, D, $$-$$$ FELICIA SUZANNE’S—Elevated down-home farmhouse food, using locally sourced ingredients, served in an atmoshere of classic Southern charm. 383 S. Main, 623-7883. L, D, $$$-$$$$. FERRARO’S CHEESY CORNER & PIZZERIA—Plenty of pizzas, along with a whole new cheese-inspired menu (fancy grilled cheeses and build-your-own mac and cheese bowls). 111 Jackson, 522-2033. L, D, $ H I S C U R AT E D restaurant listing is offered as FISHBOWL AT THE PYRAMID—Burgers, fish dishes, sandwiches, and more served in a unique “underwater” setting. Bass Pro, 1 Bass Pro a service to our readers. Broken down alphabetically Drive, 291-8000. B, L, D, $-$$ by neighborhoods, our directory does not list every FLAME RAMEN—Traditional Japanese ramen restaurant serving up restaurant in town. It does, however, include the bowls of noodles. 61 S. Second, 441-6686. L, D, wheelchair accessible, $-$$ magazine’s “Top 50” choices of must-try restaurants in FLIGHT RESTAURANT & WINE BAR—Steaks and seafood, Memphis, a group that is updated yearly. Establishments with such specialties as bison ribeye and Muscovy duck, all matched with appropriate wines. 39 S. Main, 521-8005. D, SB, MRA, open less than a year are not eligible for “Top 50” but are noted as “New.” This guide also includes a representative sampling of other Bluff City eating $-$$$GARDEN BRUNCH CAFÉ—Fish and grits, steak and eggs, and establishments. No fast-food facilities or cafeterias are listed. Restaurants other upscale takes on Southern brunch classics. 492 S. Main, 249-7450. B, L, $$ are included regardless of whether they advertise in Memphis Magazine; THE GENRE—Burgers, tenders, catfish, and plenty of vegan options those that operate in multiple locations are listed under the neighborhood made to order at this music-themed restaurant/lounge. 200 Poplar, Suite 105, 410-8169. B, L, D, $-$$ of their original location. This guide is updated regularly, but we GOOD FORTUNE CO.—Authentic handcrafted noodles, ramen, recommend that you call ahead to check on hours, prices, or other details. and dumplings. 361 S. Main, 561-306-4711. L, D, $-$$ Suggestions from readers for restaurants to be included are welcome: THE GOURMET GALLERY—A variety of elevated comfort dishes, like fried ribs and waffles, shrimp and grits, grilled salmon, and more. Closed dining@memphismagazine.com. Mon. 412 S. Main, 848-4691. L, D, $-$$$ GROOVY GRATITUDE—Offers a vibrant selection of cold-pressed DOWNTOWN BRASS DOOR IRISH PUB—Irish and New-American cuisine includes juices, handcrafted smoothies, and healthy eats like paninis and acai such entrees as fish and chips, burgers, shepherd’s pie, all-day Irish bowls. Closed Sun. 605 N. Second, 417-8007. B, L, WB, $ ALDO’S PIZZA PIES—Serving gourmet pizzas — including Mr. breakfast, and more. 152 Madison, 572-1813. L, D, SB, $-$$ T Rex — salads, and more. Also 30 beers, bottled or on tap. 100 S. GUS’S WORLD FAMOUS FRIED CHICKEN—Serves chicken BY THE BREWERY—Breakfast and lunch café, with a focus on Main, 577-7743; 752 S. Cooper, 725-7437. L, D, $-$$ with signature spicy batter, along with homemade beans, slaw, and Southern-style biscuits, salads, and soups. 496 Tennessee, 310-4341. pies. 310 S. Front, 527-4877; 3100 Forest Hill Irene (Germantown), AMELIA GENE’S—Globally inspired fine-dining cuisine at the B, L, $ 853-6005; 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 373-9111; 730 S. One Beale project, including Rohan duck, Wagyu filet, and an Mendenhall, 767-2323; 505 Highway 70 W., Mason, TN, 901-294-2028. CAPRICCIO GRILL ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE—Offers prime steaks, extensive cheese cart. 255 S. Front, 730-7650. D, $$-$$$ L, D, MRA, $ fresh seafood (lobster tails, grouper, mahi mahi), pasta, and several THE ARCADE—Memphis’ oldest cafe. Specialties include sweet Northern Italian specialties. 149 Union, The Peabody, 529-4199. B, L, D, HIVE BAGEL & DELI—Bagels, bagels, and more bagels at this potato pancakes, a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich, and SB, MRA, $-$$$$ new downtown deli offering baked goods, sandwiches, and breakfast served all day. 540 S. Main, 526-5757. B, L, MRA, $ salads. Closed Mon./Tue. 276 S. Front, 509-2946. B, L, $ CAROLINA WATERSHED—This indoor/outdoor eatery, set around ARNOLD’S SMOKEHOUSE—A classic smokehouse with vegan and silos, features reimagined down-home classics, including fried green HU. ROOF—Rooftop cocktail bar serves toasts with a variety of toppings nonvegan options seasoned to perfection. Closed Mon. 2019 E. Person, tomatoes with smoked catfish, a buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, including beef tartare with cured egg, cognac, and capers or riced 922-5950. L, D, SB, $-$$$ burgers, and more. Closed Mon.-Thurs. 141 E. Carolina, cauliflower with yellow curry, currants, and almonds. AUTOMATIC SLIM’S—Longtime downtown favorite specializes in DINING SYMBOLS Also salads, fish tacos, and boiled peanut hummus. 79 321-5553. L, D, WB, $-$$ contemporary American cuisine emphasizing local ingredients; also Madison, 333-1229. D, $ CATHERINE & MARY’S—A variety of pastas, extensive martini list. 83 S. Second, 525-7948. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$ B — breakfast grilled quail, pâté, razor clams, and monkfish are HUSTLE & DOUGH BAKERY & CAFE— BARDOG TAVERN—Classic American grill with Italian influence, among the dishes served at this Italian restaurant in the L — lunch Flaky, baked breakfast goodness every day with Bardog offers pasta specialties such as Grandma’s NJ Meatballs, as well D — dinner Chisca. 272 S. Main, 254-8600. D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ fresh pastries, sandwiches, and more at Arrive Hotel. as salads, sliders, sandwiches, and daily specials. 73 Monroe, 275-8752. SB —Sunday brunch 477 S. Main, 701-7577. B, L, $ CHEZ PHILIPPE—Classical/contemporary B (Mon.-Fri.), L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$ French cuisine with Asian and Nordic influences, WB —weekend brunch ITTA BENA—Southern and Cajun-American cuisine BELLE TAVERN—Serving elevated bar food, including a butcher board presented in a luxurious atmosphere with seasonal served here, located above B.B. King’s Blues Club on MRA — member, Memphis with a variety of meats and cheeses, as well as daily specials. 117 Barboro tasting menus from chef Keith Clinton. Afternoon tea Beale St.; specialties are duck and waffles and shrimp Restaurant Association Alley, 249-6580. L (Sun.), D, MRA, $ served Thu.-Sun., noon-3:30 p.m. (reservations and grits, along with steaks, chops, seafood, and pasta. $ — under $15 per person BEN YAY’S GUMBO SHOP—Spiritual successor to DejaVu, offering required). Closed Sun.-Tues. The Peabody, 149 Union, 145 Beale, 578-3031. D, MRA, $$-$$$ fresh and authentic Creole staples. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111, without drinks or desserts 529-4188. D, MRA, $$$$ JEM DINING—Chef Josh Mutchnick offers a 779-4125. L, D, $-$$ $$ — under $25 CIMAS—It’s breakfast tacos, shrimp and grits, dining experience that’s memorable, refined, BISCUITS & JAMS—Offering sweet and savory brunch with a Cajun $$$ — $26-$50 chilaquiles verdes, and plenty of other Southern and unpretentious, and welcoming with dishes from around flare. Specialties include smoked sausage or spicy fried chicken on Latin-American twists at the Hyatt Centric. 33 Beale, $$$$ — over $50 the world. Closed Sun./Mon./Tue. 644 Madison, 286biscuits, lemon blueberry waffles, and rum custard French toast. No 444-3232. B, L, D, $-$$$ 1635. D, $$-$$$ walk-ins on weekends. 24 N. B.B. King Blvd., 672-7905. B, L, WB, $-$$
We celebrate our city’s community table and the people who grow, cook, and eat the best Memphis food at M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M / F O O D 72 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
(This guide, compiled by our editors, includes editorial picks and advertisers.)
PHOTOGRAPH BY JUSTIN FOX BURKS
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CITY DINING
KING & UNION BAR GROCERY—Classic Southern favorites including catfish plate, pimento cheese, po-boys, chicken & waffles. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with cocktails served with flair and favorite Memphis beers. Locally made confections available in the grocery. 185 Union, 523-8500. B, L, D, $-$$ KOOKY CANUCK—Home of the four-pound Kookamonga Burger (no charge to anyone who can eat it in less than 60 minutes), plus other (smaller) burgers, sandwiches, wings, soups, and salads. 57 S. Second, 901-578-9800. L, D, MRA, $-$$ KUYA—The name means “brother” and this restaurant presents a menu inspired by dishes of the Phillipines: lumpia, halo halo, skewers, and small plates. 327 South Main, 574-4493. D, $-$$ LITTLE BETTIE—New Haven-style pizzas and snacks from the Andrew-Michael team at Wiseacre’s Downtown location. 398 S. B.B. King Blvd, 334-9411. L, D, $-$$ THE LOBBYIST AT THE CHISCA—Chef Jimmy Gentry brings his farm-to-table ideas downtown, with seasonal, and sometimes weekly, new menus, and an emphasis on creative vegetable dishes. Closed Sun. 272 S. Main St., Suite 101, 249-2170. D, $$-$$$$ LOFLIN YARD—Beer garden and restaurant serves vegetarian fare and smoked-meat dishes, including beef brisket and pork tenderloin, cooked on a custom-made grill. Closed Mon.-Tues. 7 W. Carolina, 249-3046. L (Sat. and Sun.), D, MRA, $-$$ THE LOOKOUT AT THE PYRAMID—Serves seafood and Southern fare, including cornmeal-fried oysters, sweet tea brined chicken, and elk chops. 1 Bass Pro Dr, 620-4600/291-8200. L, D, $-$$$ LUNA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE—Serving a limited menu of breakfast and lunch items. Dinner entrees include citrus glaze salmon and Cajun stuffed chicken. 179 Madison (Hotel Napoleon), 526-0002. B, D (Mon.-Sat.), $-$$$ MACIEL’S—Entrees include tortas, fried taco plates, quesadillas, chorizo and pastor soft tacos, salads, and more. Closed Sun. 45 S. Main, 526-0037; 820 S. Cooper, 443-4356. MRA, $ MAHOGANY RIVER TERRACE—Upscale Southern restaurant offers such dishes as coffee-rubbed lamb chops and baked Cajun Cornish hen. Closed for dinner Sun. and all day Mon.-Tues. 280 Island Drive, 249-9774. L, D, SB, $-$$$ THE MAJESTIC GRILLE—Features aged steaks, fresh seafood, and such specialties as roasted chicken and grilled pork tenderloin; offers a pre-theater menu and classic cocktails. Well-stocked bar. 145 S. Main, 522-8555. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$ McEWEN’S—Southern/American cuisine with international flavors; specialties include steak and seafood, sweet potato-crusted catfish with macaroni and cheese, and more. Closed Sun., Monroe location. 120 Monroe, 527-7085; 1110 Van Buren (Oxford), 662-234-7003. L, D, SB (Oxford only), MRA, $$-$$$ MESQUITE CHOP HOUSE—The focus here is on steaks, including prime fillet, rib-eyes, and prime-aged New York strip; also, some seafood options. 88 Union, 527-5337; 5960 Getwell (Southaven), 662-8902467. D, SB, $$-$$$ MOLLIE FONTAINE LOUNGE—Specializes in tapas (small plates) featuring global cuisine. Closed Sun.-Tues. 679 Adams, 524-1886. D, MRA, $ MOMMA’S ROADHOUSE—This diner and dive at Highway 55 serves up smoked wings, burgers, and beer, among other solid bar-food options. 855 Kentucky, 207-5111. L, D, MRA, $ PAULETTE’S—Presents fine dining with a Continental flair, including such entrees as filet Paulette with butter cream sauce and crabmeat and spinach crepes; also changing daily specials and great views. River Inn, 50 Harbor Town Square, 260-3300. B, L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$ RENDEZVOUS, CHARLES VERGOS’—Menu items include barbecued ribs, cheese plates, skillet shrimp, red beans and rice, and Greek salads. Closed Sun.-Mon. 52 S. Second, 523-2746. L (Fri.Sat.), D, $-$$ ROCK’N DOUGH—A blend of Italian and American foods like artisan pizza, salads, pasta, burgers, and house-brewed beers. 704 Madison, 587-6256. L, D, $-$$ SABOR CARIBE—Serving up “Caribbean flavors” with dishes from Colombia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. Closed Sunday. 662 Madison, 949-8100. L, D, $ SAGE—Restaurant and lounge features daily lunch specials and tapas with such dishes as braised short ribs, teriyaki pulled pork, and the Sage burger made with Angus beef, avocado mash, fried egg, and flash-fried sage. 94 S. Main, 672-7902. L, D, WB, $-$$
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CITY DINING
SILLY GOOSE LOUNGE—Gourmet, wood-fired pizzas and handcrafted cocktails at this downtown restaurant and lounge. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111, 435-6915. L, D, $ SOUTH MAIN SUSHI & GRILL—Serving sushi, nigiri, and more. 520 S. Main, 249-2194. L, D, $ SOB—Elevated gastropub that serves favorites like general Tso’s cauliflower or duck fried rice. 345 S. Main, 526-0388; 5040 Sanderlin (East Memphis), 818-0821; 1329 W. Poplar, 286-1360. L, D, WB, $-$$ SOUTH POINT GROCERY—Fresh and delicious sandwiches made to order at Downtown’s new grocery market. 136 Webster. B, L, D, $ SUGAR GRITS—Who said breakfast has to be in the morning? The Westmorelands offer grits and other breakfast goodness all day long, in addition to other Southern-style lunch and dinner options. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 111, 249-5206. B, L, D, $-$$ SUNRISE MEMPHIS—Serves breakfast all day, including house-made biscuits, frittatas, kielbasa or boudin plates, and breakfast platters. 670 Jefferson, 552-3144; 5469 Poplar Ave. (East Memphis), 844-6117. B, L, MRA, $ TERRACE—Creative American and Continental cuisine includes such dishes as filet mignon, beef or lamb sliders, chicken satay, and mushroom pizzetta. Rooftop, River Inn of Harbor Town, 50 Harbor Town Square, 260-3366. D, MRA, $$ TEXAS DE BRAZIL—Serves beef, pork, lamb, and chicken dishes, and Brazilian sausage; also a salad bar with extensive toppings. 150 Peabody Place, Suite 103, 526-7600. L (Wed.-Fri.), D, WB, $$-$$$ TUG’S—Famous for New Orleans gumbo, fabulous burgers, fried thin catfish, and specialty pancakes. Now serving Grisanti Crafted Pizza. 51 Harbor Town Square, 260-3344. B, L, D, WB, $$-$$$ WAHLBURGERS WILD—Wahlburgers brings its classic menu, but with a few gamey twists at the Bass Pro Pyramid. 1 Bass Pro Drive, 291-8000. B, L, D, $-$$ WESTY’S—Extensive menu includes a variety of wild rice dishes, sandwiches, plate lunches, and hot fudge pie. 346 N. Main, 543-3278. L, D, $ WINGMAN—Downtown lounge and hookah bar offering wings galore with ten signature sauces, and plenty of other goodies. 143 Madison, 907-0586. D, WB, $-$$ MIDTOWN (INCLUDES THE MEDICAL CENTER) ABNER’S FAMOUS CHICKEN—Fried chicken tenders and dipping sauces galore at this Mid-South staple. 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 137, 425-2597; 1100 N. Germantown Pkwy., 754-5355 (Cordova). L, D, $-$$ ABYSSINIA RESTAURANT—Ethiopian/Mediterranean menu includes beef, chicken, lamb, fish entrees, and vegetarian dishes; also a lunch buffet. 2600 Poplar, 321-0082. L, D, $-$$ ART BAR—Inventive cocktails feature locally foraged ingredients; snacks include house-cured salt & vinegar potato chips and herb-roasted olives. Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 280, 507-8030. D, $ ASHTAR GARDEN—Southern twists on classic brunch dishes, and plenty of cocktails. Closed Mon.-Wed. 898 S. Cooper, 443-1514. L, D, $-$$ BABALU TACOS & TAPAS—Spanish-style tapas with Southern flair; also taco and enchilada of the day; specials change daily. 2115 Madison, 274-0100; 6450 Poplar, 410-8909. L, D, SB, MRA, $-$$ BAIN BARBECUE & BAKERY—Brian Bain’s popular Texas-style barbecue is back, alongside an assortment of baked goods. 993 S. Cooper, 310-4141; 2016 South Germantown, 779-7954. B, L, $-$$ BAO TOAN—Traditional Vietnamese restaurant offering small bites and home-style plates, plus creative versions of street-food favorites. 1350 Concourse Avenue. 695-1265. L, D, WB. Closed Tues. $-$$ BAR DKDC—Features an ever-changing menu of international “street food,” from Thai to Mexican, Israeli to Indian, along with specialty cocktails. 964 S. Cooper, 272-0830. D, MRA, $ BAR KEOUGH—It’s old-school eats and cocktails at the new Cooper-Young neighborhood corner bar by Kevin Keough. 247 S. Cooper, 654-3851. D, $ BAR-B-Q SHOP—Dishes up barbecued ribs, spaghetti, bologna, other classics. Closed Sun. 1782 Madison, 272-1277. L, D, MRA, $-$$ BARI RISTORANTE ENOTECA—Authentic Southeastern Italian cuisine (Puglia) emphasizes lighter entrees. Serves fresh fish and beef dishes and a homemade soup of the day. 524 S. Cooper, 722-2244. D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ BARKSDALE RESTAURANT—Old-school diner serving breakfast and Southern plate lunches. 237 S. Cooper, 722-2193. B, L, D, $ BAYOU BAR & GRILL—New Orleans fare at this Overton Square eatery includes jambalaya, gumbo, catfish Acadian, shrimp dishes, 74 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
red beans and rice, and muffalettas. 2094 Madison, 278-8626. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$ BEAUTY SHOP—Modern American cuisine with international flair served in a former beauty shop. Serves steaks, salads, pasta, and seafood, including pecan-crusted golden sea bass. Perennial “Best Brunch” winner. Closed for dinner Sunday. 966 S. Cooper, 272-7111. L, D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ BOSCOS—Tennessee’s first craft brewery serves a variety of freshly brewed beers as well as wood-fired oven pizzas, pasta, seafood, steaks, and sandwiches. 2120 Madison, 432-2222. L, D, SB (with live jazz), MRA, $-$$ BROADWAY PIZZA—Serving a variety of pizzas, including the Broadway Special, as well as sandwiches, salads, wings, and soul-food specials. 2581 Broad, 454-7930; 627 S. Mendenhall, 207-1546. L, D, $-$$ BRIZA—Featuring specialties from the chef Moisés Hernandez’s native El Salvador, around the theme “Land–Sushi–Sea.” 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 181, 585-0553. L, D, MRA, $$-$$$ CAFE 1912—French/American bistro owned by culinary pioneer Glenn Hays serving such seafood entrees as seared sea scallops with charred cauliflower purée and chorizo cumin sauce; also crepes, salads, and onion soup gratinée. 243 S. Cooper, 722-2700. D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ CAFE ECLECTIC—Omelets and chicken and waffles are among menu items, along with quesadillas, sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. Menu varies by location. 603 N. McLean, 725-1718; 111 Harbor Town Square, 590-4645. B, L, D, SB, MRA, $ CAMEO—Three longtime Memphis bartenders join forces for creative cocktails, cheese boards, snacks, and Sunday brunch. 1835 Union, Suite 3. 305-6511. D, SB, $-$$ CELTIC CROSSING—Specializes in Irish and American pub fare. Entrees include shepherd’s pie, shrimp and sausage coddle, and fish and chips. 903 S. Cooper, 274-5151. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$ CENTRAL BBQ—Serves ribs, smoked hot wings, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken, turkey, nachos, and portobello sandwiches. Offers both pork and beef barbecue. 2249 Central, 272-9377; 4375 Summer, 767-4672; 147 E. Butler, 672-7760 ; 6201 Poplar, 417-7962. L, D, MRA, $-$$ COMPLICATED PILGRIM—Quick-serve coffee shop, bar, and restaurant all in one at The Memphian hotel. 21 S. Cooper, 538-7309. B, L, D, $-$$ COOPER’S—“A charming experience for all ages,“ with po-boys, wraps, wings, fettucini. 959 S. Cooper, 343-0103. L, D, MRA, $-$$ THE COVE—Nautical-themed restaurant and bar serving oysters, pizzas, and more. The Stoner Pie, with tamales and fritos, is a popular dish. 2559 Broad, 730-0719. L, D, $ THE CRAZY NOODLE—Korean noodle dishes range from bibam beef noodle with cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, to curry chicken noodle; also rice cakes served in a flavorful sauce. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 2015 Madison, 272-0928. L, D, $ ECCO—Mediterranean-inspired specialties range from rib-eye steak to seared scallops to housemade pastas and a grilled vegetable plate; also a Saturday brunch. Closed Sun.-Mon. 1585 Overton Park, 410-8200. D, $-$$ EVERGREEN GRILL—Serving classic American cuisine like patty melts, burgers, phillies, and more to bring you the comforting taste of home. Closed Mon./Tue. 212 N. Evergreen, 779-7065. L, D, X,$$-$$$ FARM BURGER—Serves grass-fed, freshly ground, locally sourced burgers; also available with chicken, pork, or veggie quinoa patties, with such toppings as aged white cheddar, kale coleslaw, and roasted beets. 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 175, 800-1851. L, D, $ FAWN—Seasonal, tapas-style dishes (don’t miss the sourdough bread and butter) in a chic setting. Closed Mon. 937 S. Cooper, 310-4890. D, SB, $$ FEAST & GRAZE—Whipped goat toast, open-faced grilled cheese, and other local pantry snacks and charcuterie boards. Closed Sun./Mon. Inside Brooks Museum of Art, 1934 Poplar, 654-5926. L, $ FINO’S FROM THE HILL—Italian deli offers old favorites such as the Acquisto as well as a new breakfast menu. Germantown location paired with Happy Glaze Donuts. 1853 Madison, 272-FINO; 7781 Farmington (Germantown), B, L, D, $ FLAME RAMEN—Traditional Japanese ramen restaurant serving up bowls of noodles in Midtown. 1838 Union Ave. 779-8666, 61 S. Second St., Suite 160 (downtown). D, $-$$ FLIP SIDE—Pinball meets pub in the Crosstown neighborhood, with plenty of games alongside a Caribbean- and Latin-inspired menu. Closed Mon. 1349 Autumn, 207-6193. L, D, $-$$
FRIDA’S—Mexican cuisine and Tex-Mex standards, including chimichangas, enchiladas, and fajitas; seafood includes shrimp and tilapia. 1718 Madison, 244-6196. L, D, $-$$ GLOBAL CAFÉ—This international food hall hosts three immigrant/refugee food entrepreneurs serving Venezuelan, Sudanese, and Syrian cuisines. Samosas, shawarma, and kabobs are among the menu items. Closed Mon. 1350 Concourse Avenue, Suite 157. L, D, MRA, $ GOLDEN INDIA—Northern Indian specialties include tandoori chicken as well as lamb, beef, shrimp, and vegetarian dishes. 2097 Madison, 728-5111. L, D, $-$$ GOOD GROCERIES MARKET & CAFÉ—Providing fresh, healthy, cruelty-free meals, Good Groceries offers a classic American menu with a twist: instead of pork, they use duck for their BBQ. They also sell quesadillas, mac-and-cheese, sandwiches, and more. Closed Sun. 585 S. Cooper, 325-1269. B, L, D, $ GROWLERS—Sports bar and eatery serves standard bar fare in addition to pasta, tacos, chicken and waffles, and light options. 1911 Poplar, 244-7904. L, D, $-$$ GUAC FRESH MEX—Authentic Mexican cuisine and four types of guacamole. Closed Sun. 782 Washington, 587-4100. L, D, $ HATTIE B’S—Fried chicken spot features “hot chicken” with a variety of heat levels; from no heat to “shut the cluck up” sauce. Sides include greens, pimento mac-and-cheese, and black-eyed pea salad. 596 S. Cooper, 424-5900. L, D, $ HUEY’S—This family-friendly restaurant offers 13 different burgers, a variety of sandwiches, and delicious soups and salads. 1927 Madison, 726-4372; 1771 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 754-3885; 77 S. Second (downtown), 527-2700; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville), 8544455; 7090 Malco Blvd. (Southaven), 662-349-7097; 7825 Winchester, 624-8911; 4872 Poplar, 682-7729; 7677 Farmington Blvd. (Germantown), 318-3030; 8570 Highway 51 N. (Millington), 873-5025. L, D, MRA, $ IMAGINE VEGAN CAFE—Dishes at this fully vegan restaurant range from salads and sandwiches to full dinners, including eggplant parmesan and “beef” tips and rice; breakfast all day Sat. and Sun. 2158 Young, 654-3455. L, D, WB, $ INDIA PALACE—Tandoori chicken, lamb shish kabobs, and chicken tikka masala are among the entrees; also, vegetarian options and a daily all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. 1720 Poplar. 278-1199. L, D, $-$$ INSPIRE COMMUNITY CAFE—Serving breakfast all day, in addition to quesadillas, rice bowls, and more for lunch and dinner. 510 Tillman, Suite 110, 509-8640. B, L, D, $ JACK BROWN’S BEER AND BURGER JOINT—Another spot to satisfy your burger craving, this time with 100% American Wagyu beef. 2197 Central, 512-6957. L, D, $-$$$ THE JUICE JOINT—Locally owned purveyor of cold-pressed juices, smoothies, açai bowls, and snacks. 1350 Concourse Ave., 572-1127; 3139 Poplar Ave. (East Memphis), 207-2535. B, L, $-$$ LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM—Serves such Southern cuisine as po’boys, shrimp and grits, and wood-fired pizzas. 2119 Madison, 2075097. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$ LOS COMALES—Authentic Mexican cuisine, daily specials, and strong margaritas. 1322 Madison, 440-8393; 345 Madison Ave. (downtown), 590-4524; 2860 S. Perkins (East Memphis), 369-0528. L, D, $-$$ LOUIS CONNELLY’S BAR FOR FUN TIMES & FRIENDSHIP—An upgraded dive bar with a neighborhood feel and a rockin’ SMASH burger. Closed Sun. and Mon. 322 S. Cleveland, 433-9582. L, D, $-$$ MADISON TAVERN—Indoor and outdoor seating available, plus a full menu with a range of comfort foods and drinks on tap. 2126 Madison, 417-8029. L, D, $-$$$ MARY’S B.O.T.E.—This bar of tropical escapism offers over 30 specialty drinks, pizzas, bar snacks, and a cozy interior that transports customers to the beach. 21+ only. Closed Mon. 588 S. Cooper. D, $ MEMPHIS JAMAICAN KITCHEN—Authentic Jamaican specialties, including jerk chicken and oxtails. 1354 Madison, L, D, $$ MEMPHIS PIZZA CAFE—Homemade pizzas are specialties; also serves sandwiches, calzones, and salads. 2087 Madison, 726-5343; 5061 Park, 684-1306; 7604 W. Farmington (Germantown), 753-2218; 797 W. Poplar (Collierville), 861-7800; 5627 Getwell (Southaven), 662-5361364. L, D, $-$$ MEMPHIS TOAST—Provides authentic Memphian breakfast cuisine and features themed rooms to honor iconic Memphis figures. Specialties include French toast, shrimp and grits, and their little Lucille breakfast burrito. 954 Jackson, 417-7817. B, L, WB, $-$$ MEMPHIS WHISTLE—Cocktails, cocktails, and even more delicious cocktails alongside burgers, sandwiches, and other tasty snacks. 2299 Young, 236-7136. Closed Mon.-Tue. D, $-$$
CITY DINING
MOLLY’S LA CASITA—Homemade tamales, fish tacos, a vegetarian combo, and bacon-wrapped shrimp are a few of the specialties. 2006 Madison, 726-1873. L, D, MRA, $-$$ PAYNE’S BAR-B-QUE—Opened in 1972, this family-owned barbecue joint serves ribs, smoked sausage, and chopped pork sandwiches with a standout mustard slaw and homemade sauce. About as down-to-earth as it gets. 1762 Lamar, 272-1523. L, D, $-$$ PETALS OF A PEONY—Authentic Chinese restaurant serving chicken, fish, tofu, and more, smothered in spicy sauces. 2110 Madison, 207-6680. L, D, MRA, $-$$$ SALTWATER CRAB—Offers an array of seafood dishes including boils with blue crab, crab legs, lobster tails, and more, and specialty sushi like the Dynamite or Royal King rolls, in addition to signature sangrias and cocktails. 2059 Madison, 922-5202. L, D, $$ THE SECOND LINE—Kelly English brings “relaxed Creole cuisine” to his newest eatery; serves a variety of po’boys and such specialties as barbecue shrimp, andouille shrimp, and pimento cheese fries. 2144 Monroe, 590-2829. L, D, WB, $-$$ SEKISUI—Japanese fusion cuisine, fresh sushi bar, grilled meats and seafood, California rolls, and vegetarian entrees. Poplar/Perkins location’s emphasis is on Pacific Rim cuisine. Menu and hours vary at each location. 25 Belvedere, 725-0005; 1884 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 309-8800; 4724 Poplar, 767-7770; 2130 W. Poplar (Collierville), 854-0622; 2990 Kirby-Whitten (Bartlett), 377-2727; 6696 Poplar, 747-0001. L, D, $-$$$ SEN TRANG—Serving a wide variety of Chinese and Vietnamese soups, stir-fries, and noodles. 1615 Madison, 276-0006. L, D, $-$$ SLICE MIDTOWN—Serving New York-style pizza as well as subs and pasta dishes (formerly known as Little Italy). 1495 Union 725-0280; L, D, $-$$ SMOKY CITY BBQ—Serving authentic Memphis barbeque, including burgers, ribs, wings, and daily specials. Closed Sun. 1023 Jackson, 4253115. L, D, $-$$$ SOUL FISH CAFE—Serving Southern-style soul food, tacos, and po’boys, including catfish, crawfish, oyster, shrimp, chicken, and smoked pork tenderloin. 862 S. Cooper, 725-0722; 3160 Village Shops Dr. (Germantown), 755-6988; 4720 Poplar, 590-0323. L, D, MRA, $-$$ STICKEM—Brick-and-mortar location for the popular food truck, which offers grilled meat on a stick. 1788 Madison, 474-7214. Closed Sunday. L, D, $ TEKILA MEXICAN CUISINE—Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Specialties include chicken mole, enchiladas verde, and the trio special. 1433 Union, 510-5734. L, D, WB, $-$$$ TAMBOLI’S PASTA & PIZZA—Pasta-maker Miles Tamboli whips up Italian soul food with seasonal menus featuring dishes like crispy fried chicken or creamy bucatini with pecorino cheese. Serves dinner Tues.-Sat. 1761 Madison, 410-8866. D, $-$$ TAKASHI BISTRO—Fusion restaurant with an open kitchen that lets customers watch chefs prepare a variety of Japanese and Thai cuisine. 1680 Union, Suite 109, 800-2936. L, D, $-$$ TONICA—Paella and other Spanish-inspired dishes with an Italian touch, alongside an extensive list of gin and tonics. 1545 Overton Park, 474-7693; 265 S. Front, 949-7693. Closed Mon.-Wed. D, $-$$ TUYEN’S ASIAN BISTRO—A variety of Asian dishes from the minds and chefs behind Saigon Le. Closed Sun. 288 N. Cleveland, L, D, $-$$ ZINNIE’S—Dive bar classic reopens with a makeover and signature Zinnaloni sandwich. 1688 Madison, 726-5004. L, D, $ SOUTH MEMPHIS (INCLUDES PARKWAY VILLAGE, FOX MEADOWS, SOUTH MEMPHIS, WINCHESTER, AND WHITEHAVEN)
BALA’S BISTRO—Authentic West African cuisine available to order or by the pound, alongside traditional American dishes and an extensive vegan menu. 4571 Elvis Presley, 509-3024. L, D, $-$$ CACHE 42 KITCHEN & COCKTAILS—Elevated fine dining (think golden rack of lamb or lobster queso) and cocktail lounge at MoneyBagg Yo’s restaurant; menu by chef Daris Leatherwood. Brunch and lunch options. 4202 Hacks Cross, Suite 121. 494-5458. D, $-$$ COLETTA’S—Longtime eatery serves such specialties as homemade ravioli, lasagna, and pizza with barbecue or traditional toppings. 1063 S. Parkway E., 948-7652. L, D, $-$$ CURRY BOWL—Specializes in Southern Indian cuisine, serving Tandoori chicken, biryani, tikka masala, and more. Weekend buffet. 4141 Hacks Cross, 207-6051. L, D, $ DELTA’S KITCHEN—The premier restaurant at The Guest House at Graceland serves Elvis-inspired dishes — like Nutella and Peanut Butter Crepes for breakfast — and upscale Southern cuisine — including lamb chops and shrimp and grits — for dinner. 3600 Elvis Presley, 443-3000. B, D, $-$$$
DWJ KOREAN BARBECUE—This authentic Korean eatery serves kimbap, barbecued beef short ribs, rice and noodles dishes, and hot pots and stews. 3750 Hacks Cross, Suite 101. 746-8057; 2156 Young. 207-6204. L, D, $-$$ FABULOUS FLAVORS & FRIENDS—”The Candy Lady” Precious Thompson Jones comes up with a little bit of everything: omelettes, quesadillas, t-bones and waffles, and plenty of soul food. 2063 E. Brooks, 314-0735. L, D, $ THE FOUR WAY—Legendary soul-food establishment dishing up such entrees as fried and baked catfish, chicken, and turkey and dressing, along with a host of vegetables and desserts. Around the corner from the legendary Stax Studio. Closed Mon. 998 Mississippi, 507-1519. L, D, $ HERNANDO’S HIDEAWAY—No one cares how late it gets; not at Hernando’s Hideaway. Live music, killer happy hour, and plenty of bar fare at this South Memphis hang. 3210 Old Hernando, 917-982-1829. L, D, $ INTERSTATE BAR-B-Q—Specialties include chopped pork-shoulder sandwiches, ribs, hot wings, spaghetti, chicken, and turkey. 2265 S. Third, 775-2304; 150 W. Stateline (Southaven), 662-393-5699. L, D, $-$$ JIM & SAMELLA’S—It’s a revolving menu of soul food delight from Chef Talbert Fleming, with anything from Southern ribs to fried tamales. 841 Bullington, 265-8761. L, D, $ LEONARD’S—Serves wet and dry ribs, barbecue sandwiches, spaghetti, catfish, homemade onion rings, and lemon icebox pie; also a lunch buffet. 5465 Fox Plaza, 360-1963. L, $-$$ MARLOWE’S—In addition to its signature barbecue and ribs, Marlowe’s serves Southern-style steaks, chops, lasagna, and more. 4381 Elvis Presley, 332-4159. D, MRA, $-$$ UNCLE LOU’S FRIED CHICKEN—Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives for good reason: fried chicken (mild, hot, or home-style); jumbo burgers four patties high; strawberry shortcake, and assorted fruit pies. 3633 Millbranch, 332-2367. L, D, MRA, $ SUMMER / BERCLAIR / RALEIGH / BARTLETT 901 HOT POT & KOREAN BBQ—All-you-can-eat hot pot and Korean BBQ, from short ribs to garlic shrimp. 2965 N. Germantown Pkwy., 512-4963. L, D, $$-$$$ BISCUITS & JAMS—Biscuits, waffles, French toast, and plenty of sharables at this Bartlett breakfast spot. Closed Mon./Tue. 5806 Stage, 672-7905. B, L, $ BRYANT’S BREAKFAST—Three-egg omelets, pancakes, and The Sampler Platter are among the popular entrees here. Possibly the best biscuits in town. Closed Mon. and Tues. 3965 Summer, 324-7494. B, L, $ CEVICHERIA AND GRILL CHILEMON—Ceviche, of course, but also plenty of other postres, aperitivos, and mixed grilled meat and seafood feasts. Closed Sun. 4509 Summer, 672-7905. L, D, $ CHEF FLAVAS AND BARTLETT BREAKFAST FACTORY— ”Flavaful” sandwiches, soups, pastas, and more from the makers of the popular local spinach artichoke dip. Traditional breakfast options served by Bartlett Breakfast Factory. Closed Sun./Mon. 6301 Stage, 779-2200. B, L, D, $-$$ DIM SUM KING—All the best from a selection of authentic Chinese dishes: roasted duck, sizzling hot plate, Cantonese BBQ, and plenty more. 5266 Summer, Suite 65, 766-0831. L, D, $-$$ ELWOOD’S SHACK—Casual comfort food includes tacos, pizza, and sandwiches. Specialties include meats smoked in-house (chicken, turkey, brisket, pork), barbecue pizza, and steelhead trout tacos. 4523 Summer, 761-9898. B, L, D, $ EXLINES’ BEST PIZZA—Serves pizza, Italian dinners, sandwiches, and salads. 6250 Stage, 382-3433; 2935 Austin Peay, 388-4711; 2801 Kirby Parkway, 754-0202; 7730 Wolf River Blvd. (Germantown), 753-4545; 531 W. Stateline, 662-342-4544. L, D, MRA, $ HABANA CLUB RESTAURANT, BAR & GRILLE—Offering authentic Cuban fare. 6110 Macon, 480-8173. L, D, $-$$ LA TAQUERIA GUADALUPANA—Fajitas and quesadillas are just a few of the authentic Mexican entrees offered here. A bonafide Memphis institution. 4818 Summer, 685-6857; 5848 Winchester, 365-4992. L, D, $ LOTUS—Authentic Vietnamese-Asian fare, including lemon-grass chicken and shrimp, egg rolls, Pho soup, and spicy Vietnamese vermicelli. 4970 Summer, 682-1151. D, $ MORTIMER’S—Contemporary American entrees include trout almondine, chicken dishes, and hand-cut steaks; also sandwiches, salads, and daily/nightly specials. A Memphis landmark since the
Knickerbocker closed. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. 590 N. Perkins, 7619321. L, D, $-$$ NAGASAKI INN—Chicken, steak, and lobster are among the main courses; meal is cooked at your table. 3951 Summer, 454-0320. D, $$ NAM KING—General Tso’s chicken, hot and sour soup, and homemade chicken wings are back at the longtime Raleigh Chinese eatery. 3624 Austin Peay, Suite 3, 373-4411. L, D, $-$$ PANCAKE SHOP—Classic breakfast items plus meat-and-three lunches, sandwiches, soups, salads. Open 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. every day except Wednesday. 4838 Summer, 767-0206. B, L, $ ÓRALE TACOS & BAKERY—Tacos, enchiladas, and other traditional Southern Mexican dishes alongside baked pan dulces. 2204 Whitten, 571-1786. B, L, D, $-$$ PANDA GARDEN—Sesame chicken and broccoli beef are among the Mandarin and Cantonese entrees; also seafood specials and fried rice. Closed for lunch Saturday. 3735 Summer, 323-4819. L, D, $-$$ QUEEN OF SHEBA—Featuring Middle Eastern favorites and Yemeni dishes such as lamb haneeth and saltah. 4792 Summer, 207-4174. L, D, $ SIDE PORCH STEAK HOUSE—In addition to steak, the menu includes chicken, pork chops, and fish entrees; homemade rolls are a specialty. Closed Sun./Mon. 5689 Stage, 377-2484. D, $-$$ TACO PRIME—Modern taqueria where bold Mexican dishes meet Southern hospitality. 8222 U.S. 64, 585-0858. Closed Sunday. L,D, $-$$ TORTILLERIA LA UNICA—Individual helping of Mexican street food, including hefty tamales, burritos, tortas, and sopes. 5015 Summer, 685-0097. B, L, D, $ UNIVERSITY NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICT (INCLUDES CHICKASAW GARDENS AND HIGHLAND STRIP)
A-TAN—Serves Chinese and Japanese hibachi cuisine, complete with sushi bar. A specialty is Four Treasures with garlic sauce. 3445 Poplar, Suite 17, University Center, 452-4477. L, D, $-$$$ BROTHER JUNIPER’S—This little cottage is a breakfast mecca, offering specialty omelets, including the open-faced San Diegan omelet; also daily specials, and homemade breads and pastries. Closed Mon. 3519 Walker, 324-0144. B, $ CHAR RESTAURANT—Specializing in modern Southern cuisine, this eatery offers homestyle sides, charbroiled steaks, and fresh seafood. 431 S. Highland, Suite 120, 249-3533. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$ EL PORTON—Fajitas, quesadillas, and steak ranchero are just a few of the menu items. 2095 Merchants Row (Germantown), 754-4268; 8361 Highway 64, 380-7877; 3448 Poplar (Poplar Plaza), 452-7330; 1805 N. Germantown Parkway (Cordova), 624-9358; 1016 W. Poplar (Collierville), 854-5770. L, D, MRA, $-$$ PLANT BASED HEAT—All of your favorite Southern-style recipes, but deliciously transformed into a vegan format. Specialties include the spicy fye junt burger, or the chopped ‘n’ smoked BBQ jackfruit sandwich. Closed Sun. 669 S. Highland St.; 363 S. Front St. (downtown). L, D, $ EAST MEMPHIS (INCLUDES POPLAR / I-240) ACRE—Features seasonal modern American cuisine in an avantegarde setting using locally sourced products; also small plates and enclosed garden patio. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 690 S. Perkins, 818-2273. L, D, $$-$$$ AGAVOS COCINA & TEQUILA—Camaron de Tequila, tamales, kabobs, and burgers made with a blend of beef and chorizo are among the offerings at this tequila-centric restaurant and bar. 2924 Walnut Grove, 433-9345. L, D, $-$$ AMERIGO—Traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine includes pasta, wood-fired pizza, steaks, and cedarwood-roasted fish. 1239 Ridgeway, Park Place Mall, 761-4000. L, D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ ANDALUSIA— Authentic Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, brochettes, and briouates. 5101 Sanderlin Ave., Suite 103, 236-7784. L, D, $-$$ ANDREW MICHAEL ITALIAN KITCHEN—Traditional Italian cuisine with a menu from two of the city’s top chefs that changes seasonally with such entrees as Maw Maw’s ravioli. Closed Sun.-Mon. 712 W. Brookhaven Circle, 347-3569. D, MRA, $$-$$$ ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE—Offering several varieties of eggs Benedict, waffles, omelets, pancakes, beignets, and other breakfast fare; also burgers, sandwiches, and salads. 6063 Park, 729-7020; 65 S. Highland, 623-7122. B, L, WB, $ BANGKOK ALLEY—Thai fusion cuisine includes noodle and curry dishes, chef-specialty sushi rolls, coconut soup, and duck and seafood S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6 • M E M P H I S M A G A Z I N E . C O M • 75
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entrees. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. at Brookhaven location; call for hours. 715 W. Brookhaven Circle, 590-2585; 2150 W. Poplar at Houston Levee (Collierville), 854-8748. L, D, $-$$ BELLE MEADE SOCIAL—Upscale Americana cuisine including lamb lollipops, spicy tuna stack, and steak & noodle salad. 518 Perkins Extd., 480-7054. L, D, $-$$$ BELMONT GRILL—Burgers, steak sandwiches, and other classic American fare at one of Memphis’ longstanding bars. 4970 Poplar, 767-0305. L, D, $-$$ BENIHANA—This Japanese steakhouse serves beef, chicken, and seafood grilled at the table; some menu items change monthly; sushi bar also featured. 912 Ridge Lake Blvd., 767-8980. L, D, $$-$$$ BIG BAD BREAKFAST—Fresh biscuits, house-made cured meats, jams, jellies, and more for the most important meal of the day. 6450 Poplar, 881-3346. B, L, $-$$ BOG & BARLEY—An all-Irish fine dining experience by the owners of Celtic Crossing, and a full bar with plenty of beer and 25-year-old Macallan. 6150 Poplar, Suite 124, 805-2262. L, D, WB, $-$$ BROOKLYN BRIDGE ITALIAN RESTAURANT—Specializing in such homemade entrees as spinach lasagna and lobster ravioli; a seafood specialty is horseradish-crusted salmon. Closed Sun. 1779 Kirby Pkwy., 755-7413. D, $-$$$ CAPITAL GRILLE—Known for its dry-aged, hand-carved steaks; among the specialties are bone-in sirloin and porcini-rubbed Delmonico; also seafood entrees and seasonal lunch plates. Closed for lunch Sat.-Sun. Crescent Center, 6065 Poplar, 683-9291. L, D, $$$-$$$$ CASABLANCA—Lamb shawarma is one of the fresh, homemade specialties served at this Mediterranean/Moroccan restaurant; fish entrees and vegetarian options also available. 5030 Poplar, 725-8557; 1707 Madison, 421-6949. L, D, $-$$ CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL—Burritos, quesadillas, tacos, salads, and bowls made to order while customers watch. 5865 Poplar, 416-1944; 2046 Union, 729-2640; 4726 Summer, 590-1839; 2110 West St., 256-6202; 695 N. Germantown Parkway (Germantown), 416-1944. L, D, $-$$ CHUKIS TACOS 2—Traditional homestyle Mexican recipes. 3445 Poplar Ave., Suite 1, 888-4139. B, L, D, $-$$ CIAO BELLA—Among the Italian and Greek specialties are lasagna, seafood pasta, gourmet pizzas, and vegetarian options. 5101 Sanderlin, 205-2500. D, MRA, $-$$$ CITY SILO TABLE + PANTRY—With a focus on clean eating, this establishment offers fresh juices, as well as comfort foods re-imagined with wholesome ingredients. 5101 Sanderlin, 729-7687; 7605 W. Farmington, Suite 2, 236-7223 (Germantown). B, L, D, $ COASTAL FISH COMPANY—Upscale offerings of international fish varieties utilizing styles ranging from the Carribbean, East Coast, West Coast, China, Philippines, and more. 415 Great View Dr. E., Suite 101, 266-9000 (Shelby Farms Park). D, $$-$$$ CORKY’S—Popular barbecue emporium offers both wet and dry ribs, plus a full menu of other barbecue entrees. Wed. lunch buffets, Cordova and Collierville. 5259 Poplar, 685-9744; 1740 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 737-1911; 743 W. Poplar (Collierville), 405-4999; 6434 Goodman Rd., (Olive Branch), 662-893-3663. L, D, MRA, $-$$ THE CRAZY COOP—Plenty of hot wings and sauces, plus sandwiches and other dinner plates. 1315 Ridgeway, 748-5325; 7199 Stage (Bartlett), 433-9212. L, D, $-$$ DAN MCGUINNESS PUB—Serves fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, burgers, and other Irish and American fare; also lunch and dinner specials. 4694 Spottswood, 761-3711; 3964 Goodman (Southaven), 662-890-7611. L, D, $ ERLING JENSEN—For decades, Chef Erling has presented “globally inspired” cuisine to die for. Specialties are rack of lamb, biggame entrees, and fresh fish dishes. 1044 S. Yates, 763-3700. D, MRA, $$-$$$ ERLING JENSEN SMALL BITES—Enjoy Erling Jensen’s specialty dishes in a sharable, small-plate format alongside TopGolf Swing suites. 5069 Sanderlin, 587-9464. L, D, $-$$$ FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE—Serves wet-aged and dry-aged steaks, prime beef, chops, and seafood, including salmon, Australian lobster tails, and a catch of the day. 6245 Poplar, 761-6200. D, MRA, $$$-$$$$ FOLK’S FOLLY ORIGINAL PRIME STEAK HOUSE— Specializes in prime steaks, as well as lobster, grilled Scottish salmon, Alaskan king crab legs, rack of lamb, and weekly specials. 551 S. Mendenhall, 762-8200. D, MRA, $$$-$$$$ FORMOSA—Offers Mandarin cuisine, including broccoli beef, hot-andsour soup, and spring rolls. Closed Mon. 6685 Quince, 753-9898. L, D, $-$$ 76 • 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 6
FOX RIDGE PIZZA & GRILL—Pizzas, calzones, sub sandwiches, burgers, and meat-and-two plate lunches are among the dishes served at this eatery, which opened in 1979. 711 W. Brookhaven Circle, 758-6500. L, D, $ FRATELLI’S—Serves hot and cold sandwiches, salads, soups, and desserts, all with an Italian/Mediterranean flair. Closed Sun. 750 Cherry Rd., Memphis Botanic Garden, 766-9900. L, $ HALF SHELL—Specializes in seafood, such as king crab legs; also serves steaks, chicken, pastas, salads, sandwiches, and a ”voodoo menu.” 688 S. Mendenhall, 682-3966; 9091 Poplar (Germantown), 590-4304. L, D, WB, MRA, $-$$$ HEN HOUSE—Hybrid wine/cocktail bar and tasting room with plenty of cosmopolitan eats. 679 S. Mendenhall, 499-5436. D, SB, $-$$$ HIGH POINT PIZZA—Serves a variety of pizzas, subs, salads, and sides. Closed Mon. A neighborhood fixture. 477 High Point Terrace, 452-3339. L, D, $-$$ HOG & HOMINY—The casual sister to Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen serves brick-oven-baked pizzas, including the Red-Eye with pork belly, and small plates with everything from meatballs to beef and cheddar hot dogs; and local veggies. Closed for lunch Mon. 707 W. Brookhaven Circle, 207-7396. L, D, SB, MRA. $-$$$ LA BAGUETTE—An almond croissant and chicken salad are among specialties at this French-style bistro. Closed for dinner Sun. 3088 Poplar, 458-0900. B, L, D (closes at 7), MRA, $ LAS DELICIAS—Popular for its guacamole, house-made tortilla chips, and margaritas, this restaurant draws diners with its chicken enchiladas, meat-stuffed flautas, and Cuban torta with spicy pork. Closed Sun. 4002 Park, 458-9264; 5689 Quince, 800-2873. L, D, $ LIBRO AT LAURELWOOD—Bookstore eatery features a variety of sandwiches, salads, and homemade pasta dishes, with Italian-inspired options such as carbonara and potato gnocchi. Closed for dinner Sun. 387 Perkins Ext. (inside Novel), 800-2656. B, L, D, SB, $-$$ THE LIQUOR STORE—All-day breakfast, sandwiches, and entrees such as Salisbury steak and smothered pork chops. 669 S. Mendenhall, B, L, D, $-$$ LITTLE ITALY EAST—New York-style pizzas galore and homemade pasta. Closed Sun. 6300 Poplar, Suite 113. 729-7432. L, $-$$ MAGNOLIA & MAY—Southern-inspired, family-owned, casual dining restaurant serving up a variety of sandwiches, chef-inspired dishes, and craft cocktails. Popular items include shrimp and grits and the double cheeseburger. Closed Mon. 718 Mt. Moriah, 676-8100. L, D, WB, MRA. $$-$$$ MANDE DIBI WEST AFRICAN BBQ GRILL—Pairs traditional West African BBQ with Memphis BBQ for a menu that offers a wide variety of flavors, including daily specials and vegan-friendly options. 6825 Winchester, 672-8995. L, D, $-$$$ MARCIANO MEDITERRANEAN AND ITALIAN CUISINE—Veal Saltimbocca with angel-hair pasta and white wine sauce is among the entrees; also steaks, seafood, and gourmet pizza. 780 E. Brookhaven Circle, 682-1660. D, $-$$ MAYURI INDIAN CUISINE—Serves tandoori chicken, masala dosa, tikka masala, as well as lamb and shrimp entrees; also a daily lunch buffet, and dinner buffet on Fri.-Sat. 6524 Quince, 753-8755. L, D, $-$$ MOSA ASIAN BISTRO—Specialties include sesame chicken, Thai calamari, rainbow panang curry with grouper fish, and other Pan Asian/ fusion entrees. Closed Mon. 850 S. White Station, 683-8889. L, D, MRA, $ MULAN ASIAN BISTRO—Pan-Asian fare includes sushi and Sichuan dishes. 4598 Spottwood, 347-3965. L, D, $-$$ NAM KING—Offers luncheon and dinner buffets, dim sum, and such specialties as fried dumplings, pepper steak, and orange chicken. 4594 Yale, 373-4411. L, D, $ NAPA CAFE—Among the specialties are miso-marinated salmon over black rice with garlic spinach and shiitake mushrooms. Closed Sun. 5101 Sanderlin, Suite 122, 683-0441. D, MRA, $$-$$$ ONE & ONLY BBQ—On the menu are pork barbecue sandwiches, platters, wet and dry ribs, smoked chicken and turkey platters, a smoked meat salad, barbecue quesadillas, Brunswick Stew, and Millie’s homemade desserts. 1779 Kirby Pkwy., 751-3615; 567 Perkins Extd., 249-4227. L, D, $ ONO POKÉ—This eatery specializes in poké — a Hawaiian dish of fresh fish salad served over rice. Menu includes a variety of poké bowls, like the Kimchi Tuna bowl, or customers can build their own by choosing a base, protein, veggies, and toppings. 3145 Poplar, 618-2955. L, D, $ OWEN BRENNAN’S—New Orleans-style menu of beef, chicken, pasta, and seafood; jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and crawfish etouffee
are specialties. Closed for dinner Sun. The Regalia, 6150 Poplar, 761-0990. L, D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ PARK + CHERRY—The Dixon offers casual dining within the museum. Seasonal menu features sandwiches, like rustic chicken salad on croissant, as well as salads, snacks, and sweets. Closed for breakfast Sun. and all day Mon. 4339 Park (Dixon Gallery and Gardens), 761-5250. L, $ PATRICK’S—Serves barbecue nachos, burgers, and entrees such as fish and chips; also plate lunches and daily specials. 4972 Park, 682-2852. L, D, MRA, $ PETE & SAM’S—Serving Memphis for 60-plus years; offers steaks, seafood, and traditional Italian dishes, including homemade ravioli, lasagna, and chicken marsala. 3886 Park, 458-0694. D, $-$$$ PF CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO—Specialties are orange peel shrimp, Mongolian beef, and chicken in lettuce wraps; also vegetarian dishes, including spicy eggplant. 1181 Ridgeway, Park Place Mall, 818-3889. L, D, $-$$ PHO SAIGON—Vietnamese fare includes beef teriyaki, roasted quail, curry ginger chicken, vegetarian options, and a variety of soups. 2946 Poplar, 458-1644. L, D, $ POP SPOT BAR & GRILLE—Burgers, empanadas, quesadillas, and creole-inspired cuisine, with hand-crafted cocktails. 715 West Brookhaven Circle, 830-5431. L, D, $-$$ PYRO’S FIRE-FRESH PIZZA—Serving gourmet pizzas cooked in an open-fire oven, wide choice of toppings, and large local and craft beer selection. 1199 Ridgeway, 379-8294; 2035 Union, 208-8857; 2286 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 207-1198; 3592 S. Houston Levee (Collierville), 221-8109. L, D, MRA, $ RED HOOK CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Cajun-style array of seafood including shrimp, mussels, clams, crawfish, and oysters. 3295 Poplar, 207-1960. L, D, $-$$ RED KOI—Classic Japanese cuisine offered at this family-run restaurant; hibachi steaks, sushi, seafood, chicken, and vegetables. 5847 Poplar, 767-3456. L, D, $-$$ RED PIER CAJUN SEAFOOD & BAR—Owners of Red Hook bring more Cajun-style seafood dishes. 5901 Poplar, 512-5923. L, D, $-$$$ RESTAURANT IRIS—French Creole-inspired classics, such as Gulf shrimp and rice grits congee served with lap chong sausage and boiled peanuts, are served at this newly remodeled restaurant owned by Chef Kelly English, a Food and Wine “Top Ten.” 4550 Poplar, 590-2828. L, D, $$-$$$ RIVER OAKS—Chef Jose Gutierrez’s French-style bistro serves seafood and steaks, with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 5871 Poplar, 6839305. L, D, $$$ RONNIE GRISANTI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT—This Memphis institution serves family classics such as Elfo’s Special and handmade ravioli, along with house-made pizza and fresh oysters. Closed Sun. 6150 Poplar, Suite 122, 850-0191. D, $-$$$ ROTOLO’S CRAFT & CRUST—Louisiana-based pizza company’s first Memphis location, whipping up pizza pies with homemade sauces and fresh ingredients, pasta, wings, and other shareables. 681 S. White Station, 454-3352. L, D, $-$$ RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE—Offers prime steaks cut and aged in-house, as well as lamb, chicken, and fresh seafood, including lobster. 6120 Poplar, 761-0055. D, $$$-$$$$ SALSA COCINA MEXICANA—Mexican-Southern California specialties include carnitas, enchiladas verde, and fajitas; also Southwestern seafood dishes such as snapper verde. Closed Sun. Regalia Shopping Center, 6150 Poplar, Suite 129, 683-6325. L, D, $-$$ SEASONS 52—This elegant fresh grill and wine bar offers a seasonally changing menu using fresh ingredients, wood-fire grilling, and brick-oven cooking; also a large international wine list and nightly piano bar. Crescent Center, 6085 Poplar, 682-9952. L, D, $$-$$$ STAKS—Offering pancakes, including birthday cake and lemon ricotta. Menu includes other breakfast items such as beignets and French toast, as well as soups and sandwiches for lunch. 4615 Poplar, 509-2367; 3660 S. Houston Levee Road, Suite 104 (Collierville), 286-4335; 7704 Poplar (Germantown), 800-1951; 2902 May, (Southaven). B, L, WB, $ SWANKY’S TACO SHOP—Taco-centric eatery offers tortas, flatbreads, quesadillas, chimichangas, burgers, and more. 4770 Poplar, 730-0763; 6641 Poplar (Germantown), 737-2088; 272 S. Main. 779-3499. L, D, $ THREE LITTLE PIGS—Pork-shoulder-style barbecue with tangy mild or hot sauce, freshly made coleslaw, and baked beans. 5145 Quince, 685-7094. B, L, D, $
CITY DINING
TJ MULLIGAN’S—Cold drinks, comfort food, and plenty of live entertainment. 1817 Kirby Pkwy. (East Memphis), 755-2481; 8070 Trinity, Suite 1 (Cordova), 756-4480; 2821 N. Houston Levee, (Lakeland), 377-9997. L, D, $-$$ TOPS BAR-B-Q—Specializes in pork barbecue sandwiches and sandwich plates with beans and slaw; also serves ribs, beef brisket, and burgers. 1286 Union.,725-7527; 4183 Summer, 324-4325; 5391 Winchester.,794-7936; 3970 Rhodes, 323-9865; 6130 Macon, 371-0580. For more locations, go online. L, D, $ TORCHY’S TACOS—Plenty of Tex-Mex variety, with creative monthly special tacos. 719 S. Mendenhall, 343-8880. B, L, D, $ VENICE KITCHEN—Specializes in “eclectic Italian” and Southern Creole, from pastas, including the “Godfather,” to hand-tossed pizzas, including the “John Wayne”; choose from 50 toppings. 368 Perkins Ext., 767-6872. L, D, SB, $-$$ WANG’S MANDARIN HOUSE—Offers Mandarin, Cantonese, Szechuan, and spicy Hunan entrees, including the golden-sesame chicken; next door is East Tapas, serving small plates with an Asian twist. 6065 Park Ave., Park Place Mall, 763-0676. L, D, $-$$ WASABI—Serving traditional Japanese offerings, hibachi, sashimi, and sushi. The Sweet Heart roll, wrapped — in the shape of a heart — with tuna and filled with spicy salmon, yellowtail, and avocado, is a specialty. 5101 Sanderlin Rd., Suite 105, 421-6399. L, D, $-$$ THE WING GURU—A staple of the Memphis wing scene, featuring everything from classic buffalo to exquisite lemon pepper. 5699 Mt. Moriah, 509-2405; 875 W. Poplar, Suite 6 (Collierville), 221-7488; 8253 Highway 51 North, Suite 103 (Millington), 8720849; 4130 Elvis Presley (Whitehaven), 791-4726; 5224 Airline, Suite 107 (Arlington), 209-0349. L, D, $-$$ WOMAN’S EXCHANGE TEA ROOM—Chicken-salad plate, beef tenderloin, soups-and-sandwiches, vegetable plates, and homemade desserts are specialties. Closed Sat.-Sun. 88 Racine, 327-5681. L, $ CORDOVA THE BLUE ROOM RESTAURANT—An elevated take on traditional Southern recipes, located in the U of M Kemmons Wilson Culinary Institute. Closed Mon. 1245 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 101, 249-7512. D, SB, $$-$$$ BOMBAY HOUSE—Indian fare includes lamb korma and chicken tikka; also, a daily luncheon buffet. 1727 N. Germantown Pkwy., 755-4114. L, D, $-$$ THE BUTCHER SHOP—Serves steaks ranging from 8-oz. filets to a 20-oz. porterhouse; also chicken, pork chops, fresh seafood. 107 S. Germantown, 757-4244. L (Fri. and Sun.), D, $$-$$$ GREEN BAMBOO—Pineapple tilapia, pork vermicelli, and the soft egg noodle combo are Vietnamese specialties here. 990 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 104, 753-5488. L, D, $-$$ JIM ’N NICK’S BAR-B-Q—Serves barbecued pork, ribs, chicken, brisket, and fish, along with other homemade Southern specialties. 2359 N. Germantown Pkwy., 388-0998. L, D, $-$$ EL MERO TACO—This food truck turned restaurant serves up Mexican and Southern-style fusion dishes, including fried chicken tacos, chorizo con papas tacos, and brisket quesadillas. 8100 Macon Station, Suite 102, 308-1661. Closed Sun.-Mon. L, D, WB, $ MINGXIA DUMPLING—Specializing in Chinese cuisine and street food, with handmade dishes: dumplings, soup, fried rice, meats, and vegetables. 1014 N. Germantown Pkwy., 961-6999. L, D, $-$$. Closed Tues. POKÉ WORLD—Serves up Hawaiian poké bowls filled with rice and diced, raw fish. Also offers Taiwanese bubble tea and rolled ice cream for dessert. 1605 N. Germantown Pkwy., Suite 111, 623-7986. East Memphis: 575 Erin, 779-4971. L, D, $ PETALS OF A PEONY—Authentic Sichuan cuisine, from crispy duck to peony fried chicken. Be prepared for spice! 1250 N. Germantown Pkwy., 787-8886. L, D, $-$$ SHOGUN JAPANESE RESTAURANT—Entrees include tempura, teriyaki, and sushi, as well as grilled fish and chicken entrees. 2324 N. Germantown Pkwy., 384-4122. L, D, $-$$ TANNOOR GRILL—Brazilian-style steakhouse with skewers served tableside, along with Middle Eastern specialties; vegetarian options also available. 830 N. Germantown Pkwy., 443-5222. L, D, $-$$$ VILLA CASTRIOTI—From traditional pasta dishes and family concoctions to hand-tossed brick oven NY pizza. 714 N. Germantown Pkwy., 753-3894. L, D, MRA, $$$
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CITY DINING
GERMANTOWN BLUE HONEY BISTRO—Entrees at this upscale eatery include brown butter scallops served with Mississippi blue rice and herbcrusted beef tenderloin with vegetables and truffle butter. Closed Sun. 9155 Poplar, Suite 17, 552-3041. D, $-$$$ FIRST WATCH—Fresh, made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch creations. 7810 Poplar, 665-5590. B, WB, L, $-$$ GERMANTOWN COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches; Mon.-night all-you-can-eat ribs. 2290 S. Germantown Rd., 754-5540. L, D, MRA, $-$$ LAS TORTUGAS DELI MEXICANA—Authentic Mexican food prepared from local food sources; specializes in tortugas — grilled bread scooped out to hold such powerfully popular fillings as brisket, pork, and shrimp; also tingas, tostados. Closed Sun. 1215 S. Germantown Rd., 751-1200; 6300 Poplar. 623-3882. L, D, $-$$ LIMELIGHT—Wolf River Hospitality Group brings Wagyu beef, duck gnocchi, and other fine dining dishes on a rotating seasonal menu. Closed Mon./Tue. 7724 Poplar Pike, 791-2328. D, $-$$$ LOCAL LIME—Tacos and margaritas in a casual environment, plus other goodies like the Mexican caramel apple crisp skillet. Closed Mon. 7605 W. Farmington, Suite 1, 224-2204. L, D, $-$$$ MELLOW MUSHROOM—Large menu includes assortment of pizzas, salads, calzones, hoagies, vegetarian options, and 50 beers on tap. 9155 Poplar, Shops of Forest Hill (Germantown), 907-0243. L, D, $-$$ MOONDANCE GRILL—From the owners of Itta Bena and Lafayette’s. Serves steak cooked sous vide and seafood dishes including Abita-barbecued shrimp and pan-seared sand dab, in addition to an extensive wine and cocktail list. 1730 S. Germantown Road, Suite 117, 755-1471. L, D, $$-$$$ MR. P’S WINGS—Casual eatery featuring hot wings, burgers, fried fish, and other American food. 2075 Exeter, Suite 35, 587-6777. L, D, $$ NOODLES ASIAN BISTRO—Serves a variety of traditional Asian cuisine, with emphasis on noodle dishes, such as Singapore Street Noodles and Hong Kong Chow Fun. 7850 Poplar, Suite 12, 755-1117. L, D, $ RIO LOBO CANTINA—Mexican and Latin-American cuisine. 3165 Forest Hill Irene Rd., 310-3432. L,D, $-$$ ROCK’N DOUGH PIZZA CO.—Specialty and custom pizzas made from fresh ingredients; wide variety of toppings. 7850 Poplar, Suite 6, 779-2008. L, D, SB, MRA, $$ ROYAL PANDA—Hunan fish, Peking duck, Royal Panda chicken and shrimp, and a seafood combo are among the specialties. 3120 Village Shops, 756-9697. L, D, $-$$ SAKURA—Sushi, tempura, and teriyaki are Japanese specialties here. 2060 West, 758-8181; 4840 Poplar (Memphis), 572-1002; 255 New Byhalia (Collierville), 316-5638. L, D, $-$$ SOUTHERN SOCIAL—Shrimp and grits, stuffed quail, and Aunt Thelma’s Fried Chicken are among the dishes served at this upscale Southern establishment. 2285 S. Germantown Rd., 754-5555. D, SB, MRA, $-$$$ STONEY RIVER STEAKHOUSE AND GRILL—Specializes in handcut steaks, a fresh seafood selection, and plenty of house specials. 7515 Poplar, Suite 101, 207-1100. L, D, $$-$$$$ SUFI’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL & BAR—Offers authentic Mediterranean and Persian cuisine, from hummus shawarma to traditional moussaka. Closed Mon. 7609 Poplar Pike, 779-2200. L, D, $-$$$ TAZIKI’S—Mediterranean-inspired dishes all made from scratch. 7850 Poplar, Suite 26, 612-2713; 540 S. Mendenhall Rd. (Memphis), 290-1091; 7974 U.S. 64 (Bartlett), 203-0083. L, D, $ THE TOASTED YOLK CAFE—Churro donuts, signature Eggs Benedict, and plenty other boozy brunch options at this franchise’s first Tennessee location. 9087 Poplar, Suite 11. B, L, $-$$ UNCLE GOYO’S—More than 30 dishes with a focus on authentic Mexican cuisine, from the brains behind TacoNganas. 1730 S. Germantown Rd., 310-4855. L, D, $-$$ WEST STREET DINER—This home-style eatery offers breakfast, burgers, po’boys, and more. 2076 West, 757-2191. B, L, D (Mon.-Fri.), $ ZEN JAPANESE FINE CUISINE—A full sushi bar and plenty of authentic Japanese dishes, like Hibachi or Wagyu beef. 1730 S. Germantown Rd., 779-2796. L, D, $-$$$ COLLIERVILLE BELLY ACRES—Upscale burger restaurant, featuring creative combos such as the Cowboy (fried onion strings, pickled jalapeños, and BBQ saucer, or the Hot Pow with pepper jack and spinach. 3660 S. Houston Levee, 209-0168; 6130 Poplar (Memphis), 707-7638. L, D, $-$$
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CAFE PIAZZA BY PAT LUCCHESI—Specializes in gourmet pizzas (including create-your-own), panini sandwiches, and pasta. Closed Sun. 139 S. Rowlett, 861-1999. L, D, $-$$ CIAO BABY—Specializing in Neapolitan-style pizza made in a woodfired oven. Also serves house-made mozzarella, pasta, appetizers, and salads. 890 W. Poplar, Suite 1, 457-7457. L, D, $ COLLIERVILLE COMMISSARY—Serves barbecue sandwiches, sliders, ribs, shrimp, and nachos, as well as smoked barbecued bologna sandwiches. 3573 S. Houston Levee, 979-5540. L, D, MRA, $-$$ DAVID GRISANTI’S ON MAIN—Serving Northern Italian cuisine and traditional Grisanti family recipes. Closed Sun./Mon. 148 N. Main, 861-1777. L, D, $-$$$ DYER’S CAFE—Juicy hamburgers, split dogs, and milkshakes at the historic Collierville restaurant. 101 N. Center, 850-7750. L, D, $-$$ EL MEZCAL—Serves burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, and other Mexican cuisine, as well as shrimp dinners and steak. 9947 Wolf River Pkwy., CASINO TABLES CHICAGO STEAKHOUSE AT THE GOLDSTRIKE—1010 Casino Center, Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-24KSTAY / 662-357-1225 FAIRBANKS AT THE HOLLYWOOD—1150 Casino Strip, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-871-0711 IGNITE STEAKHOUSE AT SOUTHLAND CASINO HOTEL—1550 N. Ingram, West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182 JACK BINION’S STEAK HOUSE AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE LUCKY 8 ASIAN BISTRO AT HORSESHOE—1021 Casino Center, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-303-SHOE SOUTHLAND CASINO HOTEL’S THE KITCHENS—1550 N. Ingram, West Memphis, AR, 1-800-467-6182 THE STEAKHOUSE AT THE FITZ—711 Lucky Lane, Robinsonville, MS, 1-888-766-LUCK, Ext. 8213 TWAIN’S STEAKHOUSE AT SAM’S TOWN TUNICA—1477 Casino Strip Resorts, Robinsonville, MS, 1-800-456-0711
853-7922; 402 Perkins Extd., 761-7710; 694 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 755-1447; 1492 Union, 274-4264; 11615 Airline (Arlington), 867-1883; 9045 Highway 64 (Lakeland), 383-4219; 7164 Hacks Cross, (Olive Branch). 662-890-3337; 8834 Highway 51 N. (Millington), 8723220; 7424 Highway 64 (Bartlett), 417-6026. L, D, $ EMERALD THAI RESTAURANT—Spicy shrimp, pad khing, lemongrass chicken, and several noodle, rice, and vegetarian dishes are offered at this family restaurant. Closed Sunday. 8950 Highway 64 (Lakeland), 384-0540. L, D, $-$$ FIREBIRDS—Specialties are hand-cut steaks, slow-roasted prime rib, and wood-grilled salmon and other seafood, as well as seasonal entrees. 4600 Merchants Circle, Carriage Crossing, 850-1637; 8470 Highway 64 (Bartlett), 379-1300. L, D, $-$$$ JIM’S PLACE GRILLE—Features American, Greek, and Continental cuisine. Closed for lunch Sat. and all day Sun. 3660 Houston Levee, 861-5000. L, D, MRA, $-$$$ MAEVE’S TAVERN—An Irish-themed eatery with elevated tavern classics, from signature burgers to hearty entrees featuring locally sourced ingredients. 78 N. Main on the Town Square, 403-5100. L, D, SB, $-$$$ MAROON BREW CO.—Family-friendly restaurant serving up gourmet hot dogs, smash burgers, chicken, and shareables, all made to pair with beers brewed on-site. Closed Mon. 642 W. Poplar, 799-0354. L, D, $-$$ MULAN ASIAN BISTRO—Hunan Chicken, tofu dishes, and orange beef served here; sushi and Thai food, too. 2059 Houston Levee, 8505288; 2149 Young, 347-3965; 4698 Spottswood, 609-8680. L, D, $-$$ NASHOBA—Offers live music, sports games, and pub classics. Specialties are hot honey flatbread pizza, brisket fried rice, and the Nashoba burger. 4600 Merchants Park Circle, Suite 111, 630-4683. L, D, $-$$ OSAKA JAPANESE CUISINE—Featuring an extensive sushi menu as well as traditional Japanese and hibachi dining. Hours vary for lunch; call. 3670 Houston Levee, 861-4309; 3402 Poplar (Memphis), 249-4690; 7164 Hacks Cross (Olive Branch), 662-890-9312; 2200 N. Germantown Pkwy. (Cordova), 425-4901. L, D, $-$$$ RAVEN & LILY—Eatery offers innovative Southern-inspired cuisine with such dishes as crispy shrimp and cauliflower salad,
spiced lamb sausage and parmesan risotto, and bananas foster pain perdu. Closed Mon. 120 E. Mulberry, 286-4575. L, D, SB, $-$$ STIX—Hibachi steakhouse with Asian cuisine features steak, chicken, and a fillet and lobster combination, also sushi. A specialty is Dynamite Chicken with fried rice. 4680 Merchants Park Circle, Avenue Carriage Crossing; 854-3399; 150 Peabody Place, Suite 115 (Downtown Memphis), 207-7638 L, D, $-$$ WOLF RIVER BRISKET CO.—From the owners of Pyro’s Fire Fresh Pizza, highlights include house-smoked meats: prime beef brisket, chicken, and salmon. Closed Sun. 9947 Wolf River, Suite 101, 316-5590; 1350 Concourse Ave., Suite 165, 791-4389. L, D, $-$$ ZOPITA’S ON THE SQUARE—Cafe offers sandwiches, including smoked salmon and pork tenderloin, as well as salads and desserts. Closed Sun. 114 N. Main, 457-7526. L, D, $ ARLINGTON / LAKELAND BRENDALAY GRILLE—Wide variety of steaks, flatbreads, pasta, soups, sandwiches. Favorites: Brendalay BBQ Shrimp and Cajun Rosemary Shrimp. 6259 Quintard (Arlington), 317-6998. L, D, SB, $$$$ KITCHEN TABLE—“Crafted comfort food that makes you feel right at home.” Steaks, seafood, catfish, chicken, chops, soups, salad, even hand-spun cotton candy. 12062 Forrest (Arlington), 317-6402. L,D, SB. $-$$ VILLA CASTRIOTI—From traditional family dishes and pasta concoctions to hand-tossed brick-oven NY pizza. 9861 W. Lake District Dr., (Lakeland), 466-8288. L,D, MRA, $$$ OUT-OF-TOWN BOZO’S HOT PIT BAR-B-Q—Barbecue, burgers, sandwiches, and subs. 342 Highway 70 (Mason, TN).,901-294-3400. L, D, $-$$ CITY GROCERY—Southern eclectic cuisine; shrimp and grits is a specialty. Closed for dinner Sun. 152 Courthouse Square (Oxford, MS), 662-232-8080. L, D, SB, $$-$$$ COMO STEAKHOUSE—Steaks cooked on a hickory charcoal grill are a specialty here. Upstairs is an oyster bar. Closed Sun. 203 Main, (Como, MS). 662-526-9529. D, $-$$$ ELFO GRISANTI’S NORTHERN ITALIAN CUISINE—Grisanti family classics like lasagna, homemade ravioli, garlic bread, and Northern Italian pizza. Closed Sun. 5627 Getwell (Southaven, MS), 662-4704497. L, D, $-$$ HARRY’S ITALIAN—Authentic Italian dishes using traditional recipes made from scratch, plus steaks and other entrees. 8472 U.S. Highway 51, (Millington, TN), 872-0056. L, D, $-$$$ MANILA FILIPINO RESTAURANT—Entrees include pork belly cutlet with lechon sauce, and shrimp and vegetables in tamarind broth; also daily combos, rice dishes, and chef specials. Closed Sun.-Mon. 7849 Rockford (Millington, TN), 209-8525. L, D, $ MARSHALL STEAKHOUSE—Rustic steakhouse serves premium Angus beef steaks, seafood dishes, rack of lamb, and more. 2379 Highway 178 (Holly Springs, MS), 628-3556. B, L, D, $-$$$ MEMPHIS BARBECUE COMPANY—Offers spare ribs, baby backs, and pulled pork and brisket. 709 Desoto Cove (Horn Lake, MS), 662-536-3762. L, D, $-$$ PIG-N-WHISTLE—Offers pork shoulder sandwiches, wet and dry ribs, catfish, nachos, and stuffed barbecue potatoes. 6084 Kerr-Rosemark Rd. (Millington, TN). 872-2455. L, D, $ SAINT LEO—Offering sophisticated pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and salads. A James Beard nominee for Best New Restaurant in 2017. 1101 Jackson (Oxford, MS), 662-234-4555. D, L, WB, $-$$ SIMON’S—A unique dining experience situated on Court Square in a charming small town, offering Angus steaks, catfish, BBQ brisket. Closed Mon./Tue. 201 N. Main (Bolivar, TN), 731-403-3474. L, D, $$-$$$ SNACKBAR—An intriguing mix of “French Bistro with North Mississippi Cafe.” Serving a confit duck Croque Monsieur, watermelon-cucumber chaat, pan-fried quail, plus a daily plate special and a raw bar. 721 N. Lamar (Oxford, MS), 662-236-6363. D, $-$$$ TEKILA MODERN MEXICAN—Modern interpretations of classic dishes from all over Mexico. 6343 Getwell, (Southaven, MS), 662-510-5734. B, L, D, $-$$ WALK-ON’S SPORTS BISTREAUX. Cajun classics: fried alligator, pepperjack boudin, shrimp, gumbo, along with unique specialties. 2715 Snowden Lane (Southaven, MS), 662-870-8379. L, D, $$ WILSON CAFE—An impressive culinary destination in the heart of the Arkansas Delta. Serving jambalaya, Waygu flatiron, butternut ravioli, swordfish & shrimp kabobs, burgers. 2 N. Jefferson (Wilson, AR), 870655-0222. L, D, WB, $-$$$
SEPTEMBER 21, 2026 MEMPHIS NATIONAL GOLF CLUB WWW.PEYITFORWARD901.ORG
PMW LEGACY
TITLE SPONSOR – $2,100 CORPORATE TEAM SPONSOR – $1,300
NON-CORPORATE TEAM – $800
Corporate Team Sponsor is the perfect way to promote your business while enjoying a great day on the course. Corporate sponsorship includes one four-person tournament registration, a custom yard sign at a tournament location and a logo placement on the tournament website and event communications, verbal recognition during the tournament, and the opportunity to include branded promotional items in each golfer's gift bag. It's a meaningful way to support the PMW Scholarship while increasing your company's visibility in the community.
AWARDS & RECEPTION SPONSOR – $750 Sponsor the awards and reception where winners are recognized. Includes logo features, event program communications, recognition, and the opportunity to include branded items in participant swag bags.
Become a PMW Legacy Title Sponsor and make a lasting investment in the future of our scholarship program. As our premier sponsor, your company will receive exclusive Title Sponsor recognition, a hole sponsorship at every hole, recognition throughout the tournament and on social media, logo placement on the event website and landing page, the opportunity to address participants during the awards ceremony, and the ability to include branded promotional items in every golfer's gift bag.
Grab your friends and hit the course! This registration includes one four-person team for the tournament. Enjoy a fun day of golf complete with lunch, golfer gift baskets, and a round-the-day, and an afternoon snack during the awards ceremony. Gather your crew and join us for a great day supporting the PMW Scholarship!
CART SPONSOR – $500 Sponsor the carts that keep us rolling! Your logo will be featured online and in all event communications, with a company shout out during the tournament. You'll also have the opportunity to include branded items in participant swag bags.
LUNCH SPONSOR – $750
Fuel the fun by providing lunch for our golfers and volunteers. Includes logo placement on the website and event communications, verbal recognition during the tournament, and the chance to include branded items in swag bags.
CONTEST SPONSORS – $500, EACH
HOLE SPONSORS – $500, EACH Sponsor a hole and leave a lasting impression. Your custom yard sign will be displayed as a part of the tournament recognition or a personal message. You'll also be ready to help you with all event communications, with the option to contribute branded items to participant swag bags.
Put your name on the competition! Sponsor one of our most attractive golf tournaments —Long Drive, Straight Drive, or Closest to the Pin. Includes your logo and name featured on the design. You'll also have the opportunity to include branded communications, with the chance to include branded items in player swag bags.
PLAY GOLF. MAKE AN IMPACT.
L A S T S TA N D
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80 • 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 6
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