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OUR 1961ST ISSUE 09.24.26

KELLI DEWITT, CHIP GOOGE, SHAUNE MCGHEE Senior Account Executives JANICE GRISSOM ELLISON, KAREN MILAM, DON MYNATT, TAMMY NASH, RANDY ROTZ, LEWIS TAYLOR, WILLIAM WIDEMAN Distribution KENNETH NEILL Founding Publisher THE MEMPHIS FLYER is published weekly by Contemporary Media, Inc., P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 Phone: (901) 521-9000 Fax: (901) 521-0129 memphisflyer.com CONTEMPORARY MEDIA, INC. ANNA TRAVERSE Chief Executive Officer LYNN SPARAGOWSKI Controller/Circulation Manager JEFFREY GOLDBERG Chief Revenue Officer MARGIE NEAL Chief Operating Officer KRISTIN PAWLOWSKI Digital Services Director

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Hello, dear readers! All terrors aside, I’m here with good news this week. Another Best of Memphis season has arrived! Behind the scenes, we spend a good part of the year thinking about BOM, as we call it. Planning nomination periods and voting time-frames; building online ballots; reviewing hundreds (and hundreds) of nominees to verify they’re legit, open, and spelled correctly (thanks, write-ins); checking the winners list for typos and formatting (it’s Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, with the apostrophe); writing “blurbs” for the many first-place winners, as you’ll read in the following pages. This is an all-hands-on-deck operation. What you see in this issue is the result of an unending labor of love. We all tackle our parts to make sure the people, places, and businesses in our city are celebrated as they should be. There are the longtimers who’ve appeared in the top three in their respective categories for years and years. And there are always newcomers — new shops, restaurants, and service providers — who make their way to the finalists lists (welcome!). Sure, at its core, it’s a popularity contest, with readers selecting their favorites, from the nomination process to final voting. But for me, having been on the other side of it for nearly 20 years, I see its impacts across the city, large and small — every time I see a Flyer award in a restaurant entryway, every time I see a small business owner rallying for votes. Being recognized matters, and everyone has a fair chance. People take pride in having their name listed in the Memphis Flyer’s Best of Memphis. Winners frame and hang their 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place certificates (of which there are hundreds, individually created by our patient art director). At the party, we gather these Memphians — artists, entrepreneurs, foodies, familiar faces — and celebrate them with music, food, dance, and fun. From Memphis media celebrities to 20-something tattoo artists and everywhere in between, the winners among these pages represent all facets of life in the Bluff City. They represent the community as whole, from Downtown to the ’burbs. They are truly what make Memphis the best. This year, we are opening the BOM party to the public, and we hope you’ve got your tickets to the celebration at Loflin Yard! Black Cream and Star & Micey will provide the tunes as we toast the winners, our advertisers, our team, our readers, and every one of you out there NEWS & OPINION THE FLY-BY - 4 who make this city so great. AT LARGE - 8 With the overall state of things COVER STORY [gestures broadly], there is no better “BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026” time to celebrate all the good we have BY FLYER STAFF - 11 right outside our doors. Don’t believe ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT it? Read on to learn more about the WE RECOMMEND - 50 arts, parks, patios, boutiques, and MUSIC - 52 people across industries that keep AFTER DARK - 53 Memphis on a positive, progressive CALENDAR - 54 path. NY TIMES CROSSWORD - 54 WE SAW YOU - 55 Finally, please join me in offering a FOOD - 56 special thanks to every single name you BOOKS - 57 see on the masthead to the left. Without NEWS OF THE WEIRD - 58 them, none of this would be possible. ASTROLOGY - 59 Keep being the best, all of you! ARTS - 60 Shara Clark CLASSIFIEDS - 62 shara@memphisflyer.com LAST WORD - 63

MAKE YOUR CLOSET HAPPY, MANE. m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

CARRIE BEASLEY Senior Art Director CHRISTOPHER MYERS Advertising Art Director NEIL WILLIAMS Graphic Designer

PHOTO: TENNESSEEWITNEY | DREAMSTIME.COM

VISIT US AT

GRINDCITYDESIGNS.COM/ MEMPHISFLYER TO PLACE AN ORDER.

CONTENTS

SHARA CLARK Editor-in-Chief ALEX GREENE Managing Editor, Music Editor BRUCE VANWYNGARDEN Senior Editor TOBY SELLS Associate Editor KAILYNN JOHNSON News Reporter CHRIS MCCOY Film and TV Editor MICHAEL DONAHUE, JON W. SPARKS Staff Writers KIMBERLY HAM Calendar Editor, Copy Editor DEBORAH M. CLUBB, JESSE DAVIS, EMILY GUENTHER, COCO JUNE, ANDRIA LISLE, PATRICIA LOCKHART, KATHLEEN MURRAY, FRANK MURTAUGH, LINDSEY D. RHEA Contributing Columnists SHARON BROWN, AIMEE STIEGEMEYER Grizzlies Reporters

THE

fly-by

MEMernet

September 24-30, 2026

Memphis on the internet.

THAT PY POST “I have seen a number of misinformed, silly a** posts trying to paint me as a sellout the past few days,” Memphis Mayor Paul Young posted POSTED TO FACEBOOK BY PAUL YOUNG on Facebook last week. “PY from Oakhaven wants to respond (because I have plenty to clapback with), but the God in me says to stay focused and keep doing the work.” Young explained in a video later that the post was meant to push back on social media chatter on data centers, ICE, and the National Guard. The MEMernet shared the orignal post more 1,200 times. The MEMernet also poured gas all over it. “Paul Young, the thug from Oakhaven,” wrote Jennings Bernard, who posted an AI image of Young. “Tell me we aren’t paying the MLGW bill for whatever power trip this is, too, POSTED TO please,” commented FACEBOOK Devinn Schwa. BY JENNINGS BERNARD “Someone take his phone away.” “So, ya sold our city out to Elon with a suit and smile, while talk’n ‘bout whippin’ out PY from Oakhaven to anyone call’n you out on it,” Artie Sams commented. “... sounds like a sellout.” The most Memphis burn POSTED TO FACEBOOK came from BY JUUZOU SUZUYA Juuzou Suzuya who wrote, “they said you was slaw as hell @ Oakhaven.” “This still the mayor page ??” Dria Lashaye wholesomely asked.

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Questions, Answers + Attitude Edited by Toby Sells

W E E K T H AT WA S By Flyer staff

Air Quality, Water Rates, & TBI’s Task Force Black communities in industrial areas, discounts for high use, and a brand-new task force. AIRING CONCERNS A Memphis City Council member asked the Shelby County Health Department to appear in front of the body to address concerns over potential pollution sources and how predominantly Black communities are affected by heavy industrial areas. Councilwoman Yolanda Cooper-Sutton asked for her request to be made on the record during a Tuesday meeting of the council’s Planning and Zoning Committee. The department had PHOTO: COURTESY SPACEXAI provided Cooper-Sutton A Memphis City Council member wants the Shelby County Health Department to talk with answers regarding about how Black communities are affected by living near heavy industrial areas. air-quality monitoring, pollution level concerns, and more. While the councilwoman said she appreciated the Memphis Safe Task Force. written answers, she said the health department has not The legislature set up an eight-member board with the responded to requests for public dissemination in front of power to initiate investigations and funded 32 positions for the council. the agency’s new group, including agents, supervisors, and “Written responses do not replace a public presentation intelligence analysts, 15 of whom are “embedded in existing where council members can ask questions, review operations” with the Memphis crimefighting initiative, neighborhood-level information, and discuss how residents according to TBI. The agency is in the process of hiring 17 are being protected,” Cooper-Sutton said. more special-agent criminal investigators. Legislation by House Majority Leader William Lamberth WATER RATES (R-Portland) and state Sen. Brent Taylor (R-Memphis) Major industrial water users should not get a “steep, creates a board chaired by TBI Director David Rausch. regressive” discount — the more water they use, the less expensive it is — from Memphis Light, Gas & Water ENROLLMENT FALLS (MLGW), an advocacy group says. It is calling for reform. Memphis-Shelby County Schools continues to lose students Protect Our Aquifer (POA) planned to deliver a petition year over year, with more than 2,000 fewer enrolled in the to MLGW Wednesday with more than 1,000 signatures district this year compared to last August. calling for an end to the discounts. The utility is expected to At an August 25th board meeting, Executive Director of present its budget for next year in October. That budget will Accountability Bill White said just over 101,000 students include how much customers pay for water — residential, were registered in MSCS by the end of the first month of commercial, industrial, and more. classes. That’s a 2.2 percent decrease from last year’s count of “Residential water customers pay a flat rate regardless of 103,280 students. usage, while commercial customers benefit from a regressive The decrease is part of a decade-long enrollment drop of rate structure,” the petition says. “The more water they around 9 percent in the district from 2014 to spring 2025. pump — the less they pay.” But it’s not as severe as district leaders estimated before the school year began, White said. Tennessee Lookout and Chalkbeat Tennessee contirbuted to NEW TBI TASK FORCE this report. The state is pouring $9 million this year into a Tennessee Visit the News Blog at memphisflyer.com for fuller versions Bureau of Investigation (TBI) task force given wideof these stories and more local news. reaching authority across the state, including working with

NEWS & OPINION

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CITY REPORTER B y To b y S e l l s

‘Crumbling’ 201

Conditions at the jail are dangerous and disgusting, according to a new law suit.

MEMPHIS Presented By:

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every breakthrough is part of a journey

Lawsuit: 201 Poplar is “overheated, overcrowded, and dangerous.”

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ill people who throw urine and feces are put in a black cage on the second floor and sometimes pepper sprayed for their behavior, the suit says. Others report having gone months, and in some cases years, in custody without having seen the sun or sky or being taken outside for recreation. By June, Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner was on his way out of office as he wrote a memo to county leaders telling them “that the facility is crumbling and that they know it,” the lawsuit says. Bonner said maintenance on 201 was constantly postponed and plans for a new jail were constantly delayed. The suit says he told them it “is inexcusable that we are taking risks with fire safety, temperature controls, leaking diesel fuel, sewage, and air flow.” “After years of failed inspections, chronic neglect, inhumane conditions, and preventable deaths, this reckoning is long overdue,” criminal justice reform advocates Just City said in a statement on Tuesday. The lawyers filed seven charges against county leaders, including violation of the U.S. Constitution and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The allegations include excessive heat and failed ventilation, fire risks, overcrowding, sewage, standing water, mold and pests, and prolonged confinement without access to natural light and recreation. The plaintiffs want Shelby County to fix the problems. They are not seeking money. They also want an independent expert to monitor the repairs and ensure that county leaders follow through.

discoveries, more cures, more lives

NEWS & OPINION

class action lawsuit filed last week claims 201 Poplar is “overheated, overcrowded, and dangerous” and wants leaders to fix the “crumbling” facility. Several of those detained at the Shelby County Criminal Justice Center (201 Poplar) claimed in a lawsuit that the condition of the building itself is a hazard to their health. The suit is carried by five plaintiffs. Four of them are pre-trial detainees, meaning they are in 201 awaiting their trial most likely because they could not afford bail. One plaintiff has been convicted and remains in jail. The plaintiffs — Thaddeus Norris, Eric Wallace, Ahmad Walton, Vintrell White, and Enoch Zarceno-Turner — are represented by Nashville law firm Herzfeld, Suetholz, Gastel, Leniski & Wall. Together, they sued the Shelby County mayor, Shelby County sheriff, and Shelby County Commission. The 75-page lawsuit details harsh and often disgusting living conditions inside the jail. The jail is old, moldy, hot, and in places lacks basic security features such as fire alarms, the suit says. In one graphic scene from the lawsuit, plaintiff Vintrell White was made to stand barefoot in a holding cell with seven to 10 people in vomit and feces for several hours, the suit says, after a toilet overflowed. The colostomy bag he wore when he was arrested filled with bowel contents. He only got a new bag after begging for one for four or five days, the suit says. The plaintiffs said several mentally

to progress. Small steps, when combined,

A T L A R G E B y B r u c e Va n W y n g a r d e n

Best Wishes In praise of dumbassery …

September 24-30, 2026

everal years ago, I wrote a column about what were then freshly being called “low-information voters.” I scoffed at that fancy moniker and suggested a more appropriate name for these folks might simply be “dumbasses.” “I write that line without fear of retribution,” I added smugly, “because dumbasses don’t read this column.” Oops. Never let it be said that I don’t admit when I’m wrong. Not only did (and do) dumbasses read this column, it’s also read by a lot of, well, smart-asses. My favorite response back then was from a woman who wrote in big letters on a piece of yellow legal paper: “That’s CRAP, buddy! I’m a dumbass and I read your stupid column.” It was a beautiful thing. Almost zen-like. I kept it in a desk drawer as inspiration for years. This, of course, was back in the days when people wrote actual letters to the editor, mostly scrawled missives in blue or red ink — or pencil — crammed into envelopes with no return address. (The smarter ones tended to use actual typewriters.) The receptionist (remember receptionists?) loved dropping them on my desk and saying, “The redballpoint-pen guy is back!” I got a lot of hate-mail from dumbasses. So where are those guys now? Trolling the libs online, I guess. I sort of miss them, sometimes. Actually, I miss a lot of things about those halcyon pre-Covid times, when the Flyer and Memphis Magazine were housed in an actual physical workplace: an old red-brick building with rusty metal stairs and a molasses elevator. (Take your choice, but don’t be in a hurry, either way.) There were offices with doors and furniture and posters on the walls, and cubicles with a black phone on every desk surrounded by staffers’ family pictures and silly PR tchotchkes. There was a copier, a break room with snack machines and a water cooler, and a parking lot, even — all the stuff that’s vanished for so many of us who’ve spent our careers in offices. The “new” office-work world is six years old now. Sure, we still have a rented physical space where we go for meetings once a week (or whenever the spirit moves us), but it’s not the same as it was before the great diaspora. We’re all working at home, checking in on the Slack app every morning with emojis and cheery greetings. We still edit and write and share news tips (and silly Reddit stuff )

and do a lot of actual, you know, journalism. We’re still professionals. Slack is like a big day-long group text, and it’s essential and often fun, but there are no drinks after work. And how are you gonna gossip if no one’s in the break room starting rumors about Gary in ad sales? And who’s going to tell you “the scuttlebutt,” if there are no lunches where you find out things you “shouldn’t repeat.” (Except you always did.) It’s just not the same. And then there are the Zoom meetings, where it’s like you and your co-workers (and the occasional pet) are on Hollywood Squares, sitting in little on-screen cubicles. The good news is you only have to wear nice clothes from the chest up. And your hair looks fine, trust me. Everyone’s looking at themselves, anyway. Again, it’s nice to see everyone and we’re all working hard, but it’s more difficult to build that old-school camaraderie. We actually manage to do so, though. I ain’t complaining. Much.

PHOTO: FIZKES | DREAMSTIME.COM

The closest thing to letters to the editor these days are online comments under our stories on the Flyer’s Facebook page. The commenters offer insults, praise, criticism, inanity, and occasional good suggestions. Regular commenters, internet gurus say, are a vital part of a healthy website. They are, for want of a better phrase, a self-selected “community.” The only drawback, of course, is when a flood of right-wing AI bots with fake Facebook accounts rolls in to trash an article their algorithms have flagged as “liberal.” Stuff happens. Delete, block. Bots aren’t even smart enough to be dumbasses. Since this column is running in the Flyer’s annual “Best of Memphis” issue, I think it’s a good time to remind you that this little paper has been serving Memphis since 1989, through good times and bad, and all of us who work here thank all of you out there who support us — even the dumbasses. (Not you, of course!)

2026-2027

SEASON

JOHN WAITE OCT. 9 / 7:30P.M.

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 SPENCER OCT. 17 / 7:30P.M.

never ver gets old.

HANNA HARPER 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!

MATILDA – THE MUSICAL 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!

BU Y 5 MORE SHOOR SAVE 20%WS Flyer readers, thank you for voting Overton Park one of the best! Overton Park Conservancy invites you to experience the healing power of nature in October. See events at overtonpark.org/naturezenmonth.

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joy

NEWS & OPINION

the

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.

September 24-30, 2026

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2026

The Memphis Flyer, week after week for 37 years, has always had an ear to the ground and an eye on the street in this city, a cultural hub for the entire Mid-South. Our annual Best of Memphis poll is the ultimate example of that. We solicit our readers’ opinions about all the things that make this city a magnet for creatives and consumers far and wide, and now we can reveal the results: the best of the best in 2026, as chosen by you, the folks who really know the 901. Winners who dominated their respective categories are noted with a special “BOM” designation. If there are any ties, we tip our hats to both winners. Please remember, these results reflect our readers’ nominations and final votes — the Flyer is only the messenger. We respect all the businesses, creatives, and public personalities who have won or placed, and you should, too! Want to tip your hat to them personally? Grab tickets to our BOM 2026 party at Loflin Yard this Wednesday, September 23rd, from 5:30-8:30 p.m., featuring entertainment by Black Cream and Star & Micey. Shara Clark, Michael Donahue, Alex Greene, Kailynn Johnson, Chris McCoy, Toby Sells, Jon W. Sparks, and Bruce VanWyngarden filled in the results with details about the winners, and they’ve also noted a few staff picks of their own. Carrie Beasley made it all look easy on the eyes, and our cover photograph of Best of Memphis winner DJ A.D. is by Jamie Harmon. Many thanks to our readers who voted, our advertisers who keep the Flyer free, and our winners who keep Memphis awesome!

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Food + Drink P12 Nightlife P18 Arts + Entertainment P20 Media + Personalities P27 Goods P28 Services P36 Beauty P41 Health + Wellness P44 Weddings + Events P47 Staff Picks P48

PHOTO: SDAMMER | ABOBE STOCK

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026

FOOD + DRINK ★ = Best Of Memphis BEST BAKERY 1. Frost Bake Shop 2. Muddy’s Bake Shop 3. La Baguette French Bread & Pastry Shop

PHOTO: JUSTIN FOX BURKS; (INSET) OLIVIA PARSELS RAZURA

Best Bar Food; Burger; Kid-Friendly Restaurant Huey’s

Frost Bake Shop’s website says their cakes are “known for their great flavor, tender crumb, and unrivaled moistness.” You can also order custom cakes “with specific colors, themes, design, and detail.” The bakery, which opened in 2004, has three locations: East Memphis, Collierville, and Lakeland, Tennessee.

BEST BARBECUE 1. Central BBQ 2. The Bar-B-Q Shop 3. Germantown Commissary

BEST BAR FOOD 1. Huey’s 2. Young Avenue Deli 3. Bardog Tavern BEST BURGER ★ 1. Huey’s 2. Earnestine & Hazel’s Tops Bar-B-Q 3. Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint

September 24-30, 2026

BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT 1. Huey’s 2. Memphis Pizza Cafe 3. Loflin Yard

Huey’s offers food and drinks from lunchtime to late at night. In addition to its legendary

“Huey Burger,” there’s an extensive menu with something for everyone. Recently, they introduced two new items: the Crispy Chicken Sandwich and the Crispy Chicken BLTA. The restaurant, which opened in 1970, now has 10 locations. PHOTO: COURTESY CENTRAL BBQ

Best Barbecue; Ribs Central BBQ

BEST RIBS 1. Central BBQ 2. Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous 3. Cozy Corner BBQ The Bar-B-Q Shop In addition to excellent shoulder sandwiches and ribs, Central BBQ also features a great potato salad and an extraordinary banana pudding. You can get ribs half wet and half dry, or all the way, but you’ll enjoy the paprika-brown sugar-salt spice blend and the happy feeling in your tummy afterward.

BEST BLOODY MARY 1. The Beauty Shop 2. Sunrise Memphis 3. Slider Inn BEST BRUNCH 1. The Beauty Shop 2. Sunrise Memphis 3. Owen Brennan’s It just makes sense! The Best Brunch place also has the Best Bloody Mary. Flyer readers definitely know how to get a day started at Karen Carrier’s longtime Cooper-Young mainstay. And where else in town can you sit under a hair dryer while imbibing? PHOTO: MEMPHIS LOU

Best Bloody Mary; Breakfast The Beauty Shop

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • FOOD + DRINK PHOTO: COURTESY PETALS OF A PEONY

Best Chinese Petals of a Peony

Thanks Memphis for your votes as

BEST ITALIAN 2026

The aroma of great food greets you when you walk in the door. Then it’s time to sit down to everything from bacon, eggs, and pancakes to a “Hungry Tiger,” which the menu describes as “a bed of home fries topped with sauteed tomatoes and green onions, with bacon, ham, sausage, feta, cheddar, mozzarella, and Swiss cheese.” BEST CAJUN/CREOLE 1. Bayou Bar and Grill 2. The Second Line 3. Owen Brennan’s Since 1987, this has been the Overton Square version of a French Quarter eatery. Its Cajun fare includes po’boys, muffalettas, jambalaya, and oysters. This also is where you can say “laissez les bons temps rouler” (“let the good times roll”) all year long — not just on Fat Tuesday. BEST CHEF 1. Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman, AM Restaurant Group 2. Erling Jensen, Erling Jensen The Restaurant 3. Patrick Reilly, The Majestic Grille/Cocozza American Italian

These two guys have been creating and serving highclass, innovative cuisine since opening their first restaurant, Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen. They’re now taking Memphis by storm with their recently opened two-restaurants-inone-building: Josephine Estelle on the first floor and Rosie’s Tavern on the second floor.

Celebrating

3 4 years

BEST CHINESE ★ 1. Petals of a Peony 2. Wang’s Mandarin House 3. Mulan Asian Bistro People are raving about Petals of a Peony, which features Sichuan fare. Their website offers “a culinary journey where centuries of tradition meet the fiery passion of authentic Chengdu spices.” As Alex Greene writes in Memphis Magazine, “Petals of a Peony takes the flavors of home very seriously.” BEST COFFEE ROASTER 1. Cxffeeblack 2. Ramblin’ Joe’s Coffee 3. Ethnos Coffee Roasters Cxffeeblack’s “Afro-Futuristic take on coffee” is the city’s most sophisticated and mindful roasting operation. It’s not just their new Gold Brew iced coffee drink, it’s the attention to detail and commitment to building continued on page 14

in Memphis!

2026

Thank you memphis for your

loyal patronage! Overton Square - 2087 Madison • 726.5343 East Memphis - 5061 Park • 684.1306 Germantown - 7604 W. Farmington • 753.2218 Collierville - 797 W. Poplar Ave. • 861.7800

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BEST BREAKFAST 1. Brother Juniper’s 2. Sunrise Memphis 3. Bryant’s Breakfast

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • FOOD + DRINK continued from page 13 an ethically sourced, all-Black supply chain that sets them apart from the competition. BEST DATE-NIGHT RESTAURANT 1. Folk’s Folly 2. Bog & Barley Itta Bena 3. Flight

BEST BEST BBQ BBQ

BEST BEST WINGS WINGS

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BEST DOG-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT/BAR 1. Loflin Yard 2. Celtic Crossing Irish Pub 3. Slider Inn Pull up to the yard with your pooch in tow. Loflin loves dogs and has plenty of room for them to play and meet new friends — humans and peers alike!

Whether you’re ordering a “maple bacon donut” or just a couple of glazed beauties to dip in your coffee, Gibson’s is the spot, with lots of places to sit and people-watch while you snack. Gibson’s recently brought back its long conference-like table, where big groups can gather to sweeten their teeth. BEST FINE DINING/ NEW AMERICAN 1. Porch & Parlor Prime Steakhouse 2. Folk’s Folly 3. The Lobbyist

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Drive Thru

The steaks glisten. And the rooms are dark, which is what a prime steak place should look like. And if you don’t want to spend much money, order the restaurant’s fabulous hamburger on the weekends. This is available in the piano bar, where you also feel like you’re really out on the town for an evening.

BEST DONUT SHOP ★ 1. Gibson’s Donuts 2. Midtown Donuts 3. Howard’s Donuts

Voted #1 in America

GET ONE 2 PC DARK DINNER

BEST STEAK 1. Folk’s Folly 2. Porch & Parlor Prime Steakhouse 3. The Butcher Shop

2520 Mt. Moriah 4349 Elvis Presley 2484 Jackson Ave. 1370 Poplar Ave. 1217 S. Bellevue

GIVE A CHILD THE GIFT OF SOUND

NO PHOTOCOPIES ACCEPTED!

www.mosdkids.org

Porch & Parlor’s website promises “the finest prime steaks and chops culminating in a Southern steakhouse experience.” We recommend starting with steak tartare and

prime filet egg rolls, followed by a petite filet or a hefty tomahawk ribeye. Grab a table outside so you can see and be seen in Overton Square. BEST FOOD TRUCK ★ 1. Taco-N-Ganas 2. Byway Coffee Company 3. El Mero Taco Bay’s Wings and Things BEST TACO 1. Taco-N-Ganas 2. Maciel’s 3. Los Comales In a 2021 story, Taco-N-Ganas owner Greg Diaz said he’s been cooking since he was born. Maybe that’s why it seems like people are always standing in front of Taco-N-Ganas food trucks. Stop by one of their many locations and try some quality Mexican fare. BEST FRIED CHICKEN

★ 1. Gus’s World Famous

Fried Chicken 2. Superlo Foods 3. Uncle Lou’s Fried Chicken Jack Pirtle’s Chicken At parties, people gobble up the Gus’s chicken as soon as the tray hits the table. The original Gus’s location in Mason, Tennessee, got the recipe just right. Now, you can continue gobbling at their locations throughout the region.

BEST HOME COOKING/ SOUL FOOD 1. The Cupboard Restaurant 2. Patrick’s Neighborhood Bar & Patio 3. The Four Way You’re likely to see somebody you know at The Cupboard. Like you, they want a variety of vegetables with their meal. And soulful classics like chicken and dressing with cranberry sauce, with sides like corn pudding, eggplant casserole, fried green tomatoes, or a baked apple, followed by dessert, will put you in a good mood for hours. BEST HOT WINGS 1. Crumpy’s Hot Wings 2. Ching’s Hot Wings 3. Central BBQ Whether you’re a Honey Gold or a Lemon Pepper aficionado, Crumpy’s is where you’re going to find the wings that will hit

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • FOOD + DRINK

2026

BEST INDIAN 1. India Palace 2. Bombay House 3. Golden India Let’s whisper these words in your ear: butter chicken, lamb meatballs, garlic naan, palak paneer. Now you’ve got some dishes to start with at India Palace, and you will be happy. But then there’s so much more … BEST ITALIAN 1. Pete & Sam’s 2. Cocozza 3. Villa Castrioti This time-honored family restaurant mainly offers Italian classics like spaghetti, ravioli, manicotti, and chicken or eggplant parmigiano, to name a few. But Pete & Sam’s menu also includes grouper and fried, grilled, or baked chicken. You can even get a hamburger. And the bar is a hot spot to hang out. BEST JAPANESE 1. Red Koi Japanese Cuisine 2. Sekisui 3. Sakura Japanese Restaurant Just the menu descriptions at Red Koi make you hungry: Kurumi Shrimp — “Lightly fried shrimp with creamy sauce,

PHOTO: MEMPHIS LOU

Best Local Brewery Wiseacre Brewing Co. Matthew Carney, bartender scallions and sweet mayo;” or Kani Hani — “Crabmeat and cream cheese filling, deep-fried to a golden crisp.” And that’s just two of the appetizers. There’s also hibachi, sushi, and sashimi, to name a few offerings. BEST LOCAL BREWERY 1. Wiseacre Brewing Co. 2. Ghost River Brewing Co. 3. Crosstown Brewing Co. You can buy Wiseacre Brewing Co. beer in 21 states and the District of Columbia. They win Memphians’ hearts with a dedication to their hometown and their two amazing taprooms. BEST LOCAL COFFEEHOUSE 1. Ramblin’ Joe’s 2. Cxffeeblack 3. Belltower Coffee The modest little coffee shop on Poplar has been on a roll lately, expanding to new locations like the Arts Cafe on Broad and jazzing up tired passengers at the airport. Ramblin’ Joe’s even has locations in Nashville and Lenoir City now. The Saving Grace, Hardy Passion, and Fireside are the coffees our readers go for. continued on page 16

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

the spot in your palate. They offer bone-in or boneless wings. Take your pick, then pick them apart and enjoy.

2026

continued from page 15 BEST MARGARITA 1. Babalu 2. Las Delicias Molly’s La Casita 3. Los Comales Oh, Ricky! Oh, Lucy! Everybody’s making tracks to Overton Square to quaff one of Babalu’s top-ranked margaritas. Don’t be left behind. BEST MEXICAN 1. Los Comales 2. Las Delicias 3. El Mezcal You want auténtico? Los Comales has auténtico, as in street tacos (tongue and al pastor), asada tortas, gorditas, sopes, pescado tostadas, and fajitas. You’ll want to exclaim “¡Qué rico!” But your mouth will be full.

September 24-30, 2026

BEST MIDDLE EASTERN 1. Casablanca 2. Sufi’s Mediterranean Grill & Bar 3. La Roche Lebanese Cuisine

The movie Casablanca is a classic, and so is the popular Memphis restaurant with its incredible chicken and lamb shawarma, kabobs, and moussaka (but start out with some hummus, baba ghanoush, or spanakopita). You’re welcome! BEST NEW RESTAURANT 1. Josephine Estelle 2. Fawn 3. Felicia Suzanne’s Seasoned chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman recently introduced Josephine Estelle to offer brilliant Southern-inspired takes on classic Italian dishes. By which we mean everything

PHOTO (ABOVE LEFT): TABITHA COOPER

Best Pizza Memphis Pizza Cafe PHOTO (ABOVE RIGHT): JAMES LANCASTER

Best Sandwiches Hard Times Deli from “Maw Maw’s gravy” to octopus. There’s so much more and it’s all so amazing. BEST PIZZA 1. Memphis Pizza Cafe 2. Tamboli’s Pasta & Pizza 3. Aldo’s Pizza Pies Lucky for all of us, there are a few Memphis Pizza Cafes around town, all the more to enjoy those thin, cracker-style crust pizzas and specialty pies. But do not ignore the fantastic calzones and those enormous loaded salads. Mangia! BEST RESTAURANT 1. Bao Toan Kitchen & Bar 2. Bog & Barley 3. Porch & Parlor Prime Steakhouse It only opened last year, but Bao Toan is in the top spot for its unusual and unusually wellprepared dishes. The beautiful ambiance helps when you dig in to the Temple Tofu, or coconut rice cakes, or shaking beef. Kind of a delicious and spiritual experience. BEST SANDWICHES 1. Hard Times Deli 2. Elwood’s Shack 3. Young Avenue Deli It’s a tough category, but Hard Times Deli came out on top with their remarkably high quality preparation of sammies like the SSS Chopped Cheese, the Phil-Lenny Cheesesteak, and the G$ Mortadella (with pepper relish!).

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • FOOD + DRINK

BEST PATIO 1. Coastal Fish Company 2. Celtic Crossing 3. Loflin Yard The Coastal Fish Company is a great catch, winning in two categories. Standout dishes include the broiled oysters, Chilean sea bass, roasted lobster ravioli, and Louisianaspiced redfish. End the meal with the coconut crème brûlée and you’ll leave Shelby Farms Park supremely satisfied. BEST SERVER 1. Madison Stover, Young Avenue Deli Calvin Bell, Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous 2. Lorne Green, Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous 3. Wesley Richardson, Majestic Grille It should surprise nobody that Memphis servers are the best,

so much so that we have a tie between Madison Stover of Young Avenue Deli, and Calvin Bell of Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous. They’ve got style, they’ve got substance, and they’ve got your food. Eat up! BEST SMOOTHIES/JUICES 1. City Silo 2. Smoothie King 3. Tropical Smoothie Cafe BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN 1. City Silo 2. RP Tracks 3. Bao Toan Kitchen & Bar At City Silo, the juices are freshpressed and the smoothies are deliciously organic. And the food is wonderful no matter who you are, but if you are a vegetarian/vegan, then it’s truly a slice of paradise. BEST THAI 1. Bangkok Alley 2. Takashi Bistro 3. Thai Bistro

Bangkok Alley. The curry sauces are fantastic, the noodles stellar, and the sushi bar praiseworthy. They know how to make the most of Thai flavors while leaving you satisfied. BEST VIETNAMESE 1. Pho Saigon 2. Bao Toan Kitchen & Bar 3. I Love Pho Longtime favorite Pho Saigon is fast, no-frills, and has a huge Buddha, all of which makes for great Vietnamese cuisine. From the amazing noodle soups to the bánh mi brilliance, you’ll eat well and not break the bank.

PHOTO: COURTESY YOUNG AVENUE DELI

Best Server Madison Stover, Young Avenue Deli

With multiple locations, there’s no excuse not to try Thai from

THANK YOU MEMPHIS FOR VOTING

ese BestYECARShINin A ROW!

THANK YOU, MEMPHIS,

for 55+ years of Blues, Brews & Burgers!

WE DELIVER!

www.HueyBurger.com

THANK YOU FOR VOTING! 2026

Check us out on Instagram @mulan_east and on Facebook.com/MulanAsianBistroEast.

4698 Spottswood Ave. Memphis, TN 38117

901.609.8680 www.mulaneast.com

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

BEST SEAFOOD ★ 1. Coastal Fish Company 2. Soul Fish Cafe 3. The Half Shell

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026

NIGHTLIFE

PHOTO: MEMPHIS LOU

Best Karaoke; Place to Shoot Pool Young Avenue Deli PHOTO: COURTESY YOUNG AVENUE DELI

BEST NIGHTCLUB ★ 1. Paula & Raiford’s Disco 2. Dru’s Bar 3. Tin Roof

Best Bartender Harley Hamlet, Young Avenue Deli

BEST AFTER-HOURS SPOT 1. Paula & Raiford’s Disco 2. Alex’s Tavern 3. Cameo

September 24-30, 2026

Come for the lit-up dance floor, stay for the hospitality. Paula Raiford continues the legacy of her father’s Downtown dream disco, and Memphis can’t quit it. If you’re reading this while in line, stay in line. Trust us, it’ll be worth it. BEST BAR 1. Celtic Crossing 2. Bardog 3. Young Avenue Deli BEST HAPPY HOUR 1. Celtic Crossing 2. Swamp Bar 3. Huey’s BEST SPORTS BAR 1. Celtic Crossing 2. Brookhaven Pub and Grill 3. Max’s Sports Bar

The legendary Cooper-Young tavern, Celtic Crossing, takes home three prizes. That’s not just the luck of the Irish. It’s quality, me lads and lasses. Grab 18 a pint of Guinness to wind down after work, grab some authentic

PHOTO: JAMIE HARMON

Best Nightclub; After-Hours Spot Paula & Raiford’s Disco fish and chips, and watch some soccer — excuse me, football — while you’re at it! Sláinte! BEST BARTENDER 1. Harley Hamlet, Young Avenue Deli 2. Sarah James, Art Bar at Crosstown Arts 3. Bobby Heath, Restaurant Iris Hunter Coleman, Bari Ristorante e Enoteca Harley Hamlet has won over tons of fans with her stellar work behind the bar at Young Avenue Deli. And Flyer voters say she’s the best in town. BEST BEER SELECTION (IN A BAR) 1. Flying Saucer Draught Emporium 2. Young Avenue Deli 3. Bog & Barley Flying Saucer Draught

Emporium’s draft wall has been proudly announcing “we’re a beer bar” in Downtown Memphis since 1997 — nearly 30 years. Our readers agree. BEST COLLEGE HANGOUT 1. RP Tracks Young Avenue Deli 2. Newby’s 3. Brookhaven Pub and Grill The late night and early morning champions have spoken. RP Tracks and Young Avenue Deli are the places they love spending their time. Whether it’s grabbing a Philly from RP Tracks in-between classes, or karaoke at Young Avenue, these spots make the perfect place for college memories. BEST CRAFT COCKTAILS 1. Cameo 2. Art Bar at Crosstown 3. Memphis Whistle Tucked away in a corner spot of the big office building at McLean and Union, the quirky Cameo has quickly become a favorite watering hole for the restaurant trade — and for those who vote in the Flyer’s Best of Memphis.

BEST GAY BAR 1. Dru’s Bar 2. The Pumping Station 3. Cameo Not just a gay bar, a local institution. Dru’s is the classic destination for Memphis’ samesex crowd to get down. Their stage is the battleground for the best drag shows in the tristate area. Karaoke? Game Night? Line dancing? Dru’s has got it all. BEST HOLE-IN-THE-WALL 1. Earnestine & Hazel’s 2. Alex’s Tavern 3. The Cove Not just a Downtown dive bar, Earnestine & Hazel’s is a place where history lives. The building started as an Able Plough’s pharmacy before its two namesake founders transformed it into a haven for the Black musicians playing Club Paradise. The Soul Burger is legendary and the jukebox is a national treasure. BEST KARAOKE 1. Young Avenue Deli 2. Dru’s Bar 3. The Studio Karaoke Momma’s

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • NIGHTLIFE BEST PLACE TO SHOOT POOL 1. Young Avenue Deli 2. HighPockets 3. RP Tracks TJ Mulligan’s To the young, it’s called Young Avenue. To the not-so-young, it’s called the Deli. Our readers know what to do there: Eat French fries, shoot some pool, and sing “Don’t Stop Believin’.” BEST NEW BAR 1. Swamp Bar 2. The Dame at Hotel Pontotoc 3. No Comment Wine Bar When Chef Kelly English’s Restaurant Iris packed up for a new spot in East Memphis, many wondered what would become of the converted Overton Square bungalow that had been its home for years. English’s answer was to create the Best New Bar in Memphis. Gather your buddies and get a pitcher of the House Margs to kick off a night on the town.

BEST PLACE TO SEE STAND-UP 1. The Orpheum Theatre 2. The Hi-Tone Cafe 3. Minglewood Hall

FINE

Downtown’s venerable Orpheum Theatre is famous for its Broadway shows and national musical acts. But lately, our readers say they’ve been killing it with high-profile comedy shows like John Crist, Mojo Brookzz, and Matt Matthews. Remember, dying is easy, comedy is hard. BEST STRIP CLUB 1. The Pony 2. Purple Diamond 3. The Gold Club

COCKTAILS

YUMMY

BITES

Why is The Pony our readers’ choice in the always hotly contested category of Best Strip Club? There are lots of potential reasons. But we like to think Litty Titty Tuesday put them over the top. Be there when the girls come out to play.

DOPE for voting for us as one of the

Best Health/ Fitness Clubs

VIBES COME VISIT US AT CROSSTOWN CONCOURSE

in Memphis!

1350 Concourse Ave Ste 165, Memphis, TN 38104 (901) 695-1265

www.jccmemphis.org

@BAOTOANMEMPHIS

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Thank You

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT PHOTO: COURTESY SOUTHLAND CASINO HOTEL

Best Casino Southland Casino Hotel

BEST CASINO ★ 1. Southland Casino Hotel 2. Gold Strike Casino Resort 3. Horseshoe Tunica Hollywood Casino Tunica

September 24-30, 2026

A quick ride across the Hernando de Soto Bridge brings you to Southland Casino Hotel, our Best Casino. Readers loved the variety of food options there and the games that keep the party going all night.

BEST DOG PARK ★ 1. The Outback at Shelby Farms 2. Overton Bark 3. Sea Isle Dog Park Dogs love running wild and free, and pet parents find The Outback at Shelby Farms the best place to let furry friends roam, explore, and sniff to their hearts’ content. BEST FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT ★ 1. Memphis Zoo 2. Overton Park Shell 3. Memphis Children’s Museum Amuse - The Adventure Museum Memphis Zoo continues its years of excellence in Overton Park with loving attention to the basics like fun and hospitality. It also keeps an eye on the horizon. Look

PHOTO (ABOVE): MEMPHIS LOU

Best Festival Cooper-Young Festival PHOTO (CIRCLE): BRUCE VANWYNGARDEN

Best Dog Park The Outback at Shelby Farms for huge upgrades in the Africa section soon. BEST FESTIVAL 1. Cooper-Young Festival 2. Cooper-Young Porchfest 3. Mempho Music Festival There’s something very human about a festival rooted in a neighborhood, especially one as diverse and creative as Cooper-Young. Add the fact that it draws scores of artists and craftspeople, and the customers who love them, all soundtracked with great local bands, and what’s not to like? continued on page 22

PHOTOS: JULIAN HARPER | MEMPHIS TOURISM

Best Family Entertainment Memphis Zoo

GRACELAND LIVE CONCERTS AT GRACELAND

THANK YOU

AMY GRANT & MAC McANALLY

BOTRED TEACHERS COMEDY TOUR

BUDDY GUY

LYLE LOVETT

OCT 2

OCT 8

for your VOTE for B E S T G A L L E R Y and BEST CR AFT COCK TAIL S

GALLERIES | ART BAR | THE GREEN ROOM CROSSTOWN THEATER | SHARED ART | RESIDENCY 1350 CONCOURSE AVE • SUITE #280 C R O S S T O W N A R T S .ORG

OCT 29

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BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

UPCOMING SHOWS

B E S T O F M E M P H I S 2 0 2 6 • A R T S + E N T E R TA I N M E N T

PHOTO: MIKE KERR

Best Place to View Art Memphis Botanic Garden continued from page 20

September 24-30, 2026

BEST PLACE TO VIEW ART 1. Memphis Botanic Garden 2. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art 3. Crosstown Arts

This East Memphis jewel has long been an oasis of nature in the urban landscape. But recently they’ve been expanding their artistic horizons, and our readers have noticed. From the massive troll sculptures by Thomas Dambo to this month’s Kim Jorgensen painting exhibit in the main hall, the Garden has become a must-see for art lovers.

BEST GOLF COURSE 1. TPC Southwind 2. Windyke Country Club 3. Overton Park 9 Golf Course TPC Southwind hosts Memphis’ only PGA tournament and local golfers love playing the same links that challenge the pros. BEST LIVE THEATER 1. Orpheum Theatre 2. Playhouse on the Square 3. Theatre Memphis BEST PERFORMING ARTS VENUE 1. Orpheum Theatre 2. Overton Park Shell 3. Minglewood Hall This year marks the 50th continued on page 24

PHOTO: JULIAN HARPER | MEMPHIS TOURISM

Best Golf Course TPC Southwind

PLAYHOUSE PLA LAY LA AYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE CALENDAR

THURSDAY OCTOBER 1 CROSSTOWN ARTS FILM SERIES

SORCEROR

directed by WILLIA M FRIEDKIN | 1977 | PG | 121 MINUTES

FRIDAY OCTOBER 2 DAVE SOLDIER, ALEX GREENE, & FRIENDS present

THE LEWITT ETUDES

SEASON SEAS A ON AS

CALENDAR

2026 20 026

2027

7:30PM | THE GREEN ROOM | $25adv $32door

SATURDAY OCTOBER 3 MODERN JAZZ MASTERS:

TROY ROBERTS with THE TED LUDWIG TRIO

7:30PM | THE GREEN ROOM | $20adv $30door

YOUR Y YO U ROMEO UR ROME MEO ME EO

JUL 10 - 26 TheatreWorks@TheSquare

ATRIUM A T IUM TR U UM

JAN 8 - 24 TheatreWorks@TheSquare

MEAN M ME EAN GIR EA GIRLS IRL IR RLS THE MUSICAL

AUG 21 - SEP 13 PLAYHOUSE MAINSTAGE

PURPOSE PUR U POSE UR

FEB 19 - MAR 14 THE CIRCUIT PLAYHOUSE

SUNDAY OCTOBER 4

SEP 11 - OCT 4 AN ENEMY ENE EN NEM EMY OF O THE THE TH HE THE CIRCUIT PLAYHOUSE PE EO PEOPLE P EOPL P E

AINT AIN I T TO IN TTOO O PR P PROUD OUD U UD

MAR 26 - APR 18 PLAYHOUSE MAINSTAGE

HANNIBAL BURESS

NARNIA N NA RNI NIA NI IA TTHE TH HE MUS HE MUSICAL U ICA US C L CA

NOV 6 - DEC 20 THE CIRCUIT PLAYHOUSE

THE T TH HE SHA HE SHARK H RK HA R IS I BROK OKE OK KEN EN BROKEN

MAY 7 - 30 THE CIRCUIT PLAYHOUSE

DISNEY’S FROZEN FR F OZ OZE ZEN EN

NOV 13 - DEC 20 PLAYHOUSE MAINSTAGE

LES E MI ES M MISERABLES ISER IS ERA RABLES E ES

MAY 28 - JUN 27 PLAYHOUSE MAINSTAGE

7:00PM | CROSSTOWN THEATER | $35-$52

FRIDAY OCTOBER 9 FALL EXHIBITION OPENING RECEPTION 6-8:00PM | GALLERIES | FREE

CROSSTOWN ARTS 13 5 0 C O N C O U R S E AV E | C R O S S T O W N A R T S .ORG

NOV 20 - DEC 20 TTHE TH HE NIGHT HE N GHT SHI NI SHIFT HIF HI IFT BEFORE BEF EFO EF FOR ORE RE CHRISTMAS CHR HRI HR RIS ISTM TMA MAS THE CIRCUIT PLAYHOUSE

SUBSCRIBE AND SAVE ON OUR WHOLE SEASON playhouseonthesquare.org/subscriptions playhouseonthesquare.org/ g/s g/ /subscriptions

(901) 726-4656

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

7:00PM | CROSSTOWN THEATER | $5

B E S T O F M E M P H I S 2 0 2 6 • A R T S + E N T E R TA I N M E N T

PHOTO (ABOVE): JAMIE HARMON

Best Local Band Lucero PHOTO (LEFT): CRAIG THOMPSON | MEMPHIS TOURISM

Mavis Staples

SATURDAY | OCTOBER 17

Best Local Rapper/Hip-Hop Artist GloRilla continued from page 22 anniversary of our venerable Orpheum Theatre nearly being demolished. The fact that it not only still stands, but has become one of the city’s crown jewels in the worlds of theater, music, dance, and cinema, is a testament to the grassroots movement that saved it back in 1976.

September 24-30, 2026

BEST LOCAL BAND 1. Lucero 2. Southern Avenue 3. Dead Soldiers

The Robert Cray Band SATURDAY | OCTOBER 24

Tickets are on sale at gpacweb.com 24

Germantown Performing Arts Center 1801 Exeter Rd. Germantown | 901-751-7500

Lucero has never pursued a sonic formula over and over. Rather, they’ve intentionally morphed their sound from one album to the next, adopting a soul horn section, incorporating ’80s power rock synth textures, then stripping it back down, as with last year’s intimate release, Lucero Unplugged, featuring Ben Nichols and pianist Rick Steff. BEST LOCAL COVER BAND 1. Almost Elton John & the Rocketmen 2. Twin Soul 3. Landslide With Jerred Price on piano and lead vocals, backed by a six-piece band, the faithfulness with which Almost Elton John & the Rocketmen recreate classic tracks by the man born Reginald Kenneth Dwight, now Sir Elton Hercules John, is galvanizing.

BEST LOCAL RAPPER/ HIP-HOP ARTIST ★ 1. GloRilla 2. Project Pat 3. 8Ball & MJG In our 2025 profile of GloRilla, WYXR’s Jared Boyd observed that “She can put words together in a very tight way, and she is intentional about making sure the South and Memphis are represented in her dialect. … She has almost single-handedly manufactured this infatuation globally with the way Memphians say things.” Go Glo! BEST LOCAL SINGER 1. Alexis Grace 2. Amy LaVere 3. Susan Marshall Since competing in the 8th season of American Idol in 2009, Alexis Grace (now Alexis Middleton IRL) has pursued her own creative destiny. That’s also included acting, but she really shines in her original music, like last year’s stunningly fun single, “West Coast.” Look for her Dolly Parton tribute at Hernando’s Hide-A-way on October 3rd. BEST MEMPHIS TOUR 1. Stax Museum of American Soul Music 2. Graceland 3. Elmwood Cemetery Visiting the original grounds of Stax Records, lovingly reconstructed with the original continued on page 26

2026

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Join us to honor and celebrate Tom Lee’s legacy of courage at the annual Tom Lee’s Mississippi River Gumption Revival Lantern Parade

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 5 – 8 PM Tom Lee Park •

RSVP · FREE

B E S T O F M E M P H I S 2 0 2 6 • A R T S + E N T E R TA I N M E N T continued from page 24 blueprints, is like going to the church of soul. The museum’s artifacts are reminders of the remarkable family-like spirit of the little label that could, and all soul music everywhere, and the programming of speakers and other events is always inspired. BEST MUSEUM 1. National Civil Rights Museum 2. The Pink Palace Museum & Mansion 3. Children’s Museum of Memphis Stax Museum of American Soul Music Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum

The founding of the National Civil Rights Museum was fraught with the upheaval of those who once resided in the former Lorraine Motel, but now it’s impossible to imagine a better site of remembrance for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the struggles he represented. Go for the history lesson, stay for its vision of future justice.

lake to the zip line to just plain hiking, it’s a refreshing expanse of natural woods and meadows that’s guaranteed to recharge your urbanite batteries.

BEST PARK ★ 1. Shelby Farms Park 2. Overton Park 3. Tom Lee Park

The area occupied by the Shell

BEST PLACE TO SEE LIVE MUSIC 1. Overton Park Shell 2. Lafayette’s Music Room 3. Orpheum Theatre

for the past 90 years hosted open-air performances even before the Shell was built. It’s the perfect setting for bands, with a legacy of timeless musical performances over the decades that elevates every new artist appearing there.

PHOTOS: CREATION STUDIOS | MEMPHIS TOURISM

Best Park Shelby Farms Park

Few cities can boast an open area of greenery and recreation as vast and inviting as Shelby Farms Park. From boating on the

Love a little die a little and break the law.

September 24-30, 2026

Trey Milligan did all three in the summer before his 14th birthday.

From Sartoris Literary Group, the debut novel by

Frank Murtaugh. 26

Available NOW at Amazon.com. Paperback ($19.95) and eBook ($8.95). Also available at Burke’s Book Store (936 S. Cooper) and Novel (387 Perkins Extd).

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026

MEDIA + PERSONALITIES PHOTO: WES HALE

Best Sports Team Memphis Grizzlies

BEST BROADCAST REPORTER ★ 1. Chelsea Chandler 2. Joe Birch 3. Jeremy Pierre

BEST WRITTEN REPORTER 1. Geoff Calkins 2. Wendi C. Thomas 3. Michael Donahue

BEST TV WEATHERPERSON

Geoff Calkins, The Daily Memphian’s lead columnist, tackles everything from sports to human interest to issues of the day with insight and heart, and he’s brought home a two-fer this year. A perennial BOM favorite.

★ 1. Chelsea Chandler 2. Ron Childers 3. Brittani DuBose

Flyer readers obviously appreciate WREG’s do-it-all mainstay, Chelsea Chandler, for her stellar on-air work and strong personality. And when it comes to being the best at knowing her way around a radar screen and describing a fastmoving storm front, Chandler takes home the prize. BEST LOCAL ATHLETE 1. Penny Hardaway 2. Zach Randolph 3. Jerry Lawler Penny Hardaway, the longtime coach of the Memphis Tigers, was quite the athlete back in college and in the NBA in the 1990s. Our readers are loyal types and say he’s still the best athlete in town. BEST LOCAL INSTAGRAM 1. @unapologeticallymemphis 2. @ilovememphisblog 3. @choose901 Aye mane, say mane, guess

PHOTO: WES HALE

Best Local Athlete Penny Hardaway who got the best Instagram mane? From memes that only a Memphian would understand to viral posts and happenings around the city, @unapologeticallymemphis has curated a community on Instagram that exudes 901 pride. BEST LOCAL RADIO SHOW 1. The Ron and Karen Show 2. Danni and Country Cory 3. Checking on the Arts Flyer readers love to wake up each morning with radio veterans Ron Olson and Karen Perrin on 104.5 The River. Their fun-loving banter is a long-time favorite in these parts.

BEST RADIO PERSONALITY 1. Ron Olson 2. Karen Perrin 3. Danni Bruns As Ron Olson’s morning show with Karen Perrin is this year’s Best Radio Show winner, it stands to reason that Olson would also be Flyer readers’ favorite onair personality, with his partner coming in a close second. BEST RADIO STATION 1. WEVL 89.9 FM 2. WXMX 98.1 FM 3. WDIA 1070 AM Launching 50 years ago in Midtown, WEVL’s 10-watt broadcast couldn’t reach much farther than a few city blocks. But its pioneering, volunteer spirit carried the day and it now shines as a beacon of independent, eclectic broadcasting in the Mid-South.

PHOTO: COURTESY CHELSEA CHANDLER

Best Broadcast Reporter; TV Weatherperson Chelsea Chandler BEST SPORTS TEAM

★ 1. Memphis Grizzlies

Basketball 2. University of Memphis Tigers Football 3. University of Memphis Tigers Basketball Yeah, the Memphis Grizzlies had a rough year, with injuries and personnel issues and a not-so-great record, but this Memphis’ NBA team remains Flyer readers’ favorite team to root for, year-in and year-out. And there’s always this season! BEST TV NEWS ANCHOR 1. Joe Birch 2. Joy Redmond 3. Valerie Calhoun WMC’s Joe Birch is an icon. His face is iconic; his voice is iconic; even his hair is iconic. And so is his long-respected professionalism in delivering the news of Memphis. BEST TV SPORTSCASTER 1. Doc Holliday 2. Pete Pranica 3. Dave Woloshin

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

BEST NEWSPAPER COLUMNIST 1. Geoff Calkins 2. Otis Sanford 3. Michael Donahue

WMC sports director and onair broadcaster Marcus “Doc” Holliday is a former Memphis Tiger and NFL player who has made a smooth transition to television sports. In short, he’s a 27 winner on and off the field.

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2025

GOODS

BEST ALTERNATIVE SMOKE SHOP 1. Whatever 2. Ounce of Hope 3. Smokeology Smoke & Vape Shop With new laws at the state level moving backwards toward prohibition while the feds move toward a kind of soft legalization via rescheduling, one thing has remained constant: Memphis’ love of Whatever, the venerable smoke shop that has served our needs since the 1990s. Smoke on, Whatever!

PHOTO (RIGHT): COURTESY SHEFFIELD ANTIQUES MALL

Best Antiques Store Sheffield Antiques Mall PHOTO (BELOW): COURTESY THE STATION

Best Beer Selection (In a Store) The Station

BEST ANTIQUES STORE 1. Sheffield Antiques Mall 2. Quantum Antique Gallery 3. Antique Warehouse Mall The defining feature of this category’s winner is size. Collierville’s Sheffield Antiques Mall boasts 300 dealers spread out across 78,000 square feet. You can find anything you want, from furniture to knickknacks, collectibles to clothing, and so much more. Be sure to check out the patio area for the best in outdoor furniture.

BEST BEER SELECTION (IN A STORE) 1. Buster’s Liquors & Wines The Station 2. Joe’s Wines & Liquor 3. Cash Saver The choices seem almost endless at both Buster’s Liquors & Wines and The Station. The cooler aisles seem to go on forever, their lights PHOTO (BELOW): ELLY WEISENBORN

September 24-30, 2026

Best Liquor Store Buster’s Liquors & Wines

PHOTO: COURTESY WHATEVER SHOP

Best Alternative Smoke Shop Whatever

illuminating the smiles on the exultant faces of Memphis beer lovers. BEST LIQUOR STORE 1. Buster’s Liquors & Wines 2. The Station 3. Kirby Wines & Liquors Buster’s Liquors & Wines is like a great bar. Darkened and seasoned just right. Friendly folks. And anything you could ever want to drink. continued on page 30

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BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • GOODS continued from page 28 BEST BICYCLE SHOP 1. All About Bikes 2. Victory Bicycle Studio 3. Bikes Plus The name All About Bikes leaves no questions. Bikes. Accessories for bikes. Stuff to wear while on your bike. And bike service. For first-timers to old pros, they are truly about everything bikes. BEST BOOKSTORE ★ 1. Novel 2. Burke’s Book Store 3. Barnes & Noble Germantown Books can be relied upon for much-needed reprieve when the real world gets tough (and 2026 has been a rough one). Readers overwhelmingly vote Novel as the best when it comes to finding just the right story to escape with.

September 24-30, 2026

BEST BUTCHER 1. Buster’s Butcher 2. High Point Grocery 3. Humphrey’s Prime Cut Shoppe

PHOTO: ELLY WEISENBORN

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP 1. Jim Keras Subaru 2. Lexus of Memphis 3. Dobbs Brothers Chevrolet of Bartlett There are a lot of Subie lovers among the Flyer’s readership, and they voted Jim Keras number one for service and sales among local dealers. They obviously have a “lot” going for them.

PHOTO: COURTESY OUNCE OF HOPE

Best CBD Store Ounce of Hope

BEST CBD STORE 1. Ounce of Hope 2. Smokeology Smoke & Vape Shop 3. HighPoint BudBar We’re not going to lie: It’s been continued on page 32

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Best Barber Shop! 6 TIME WINNER LAB DIAMONDS BY MEDNIKOW

Best Butcher Buster’s Butcher

Buster’s Butcher describes itself as “a full-service meat and cheese shop offering cut to order steaks along with charcuterie, prepared foods, and more.” Whether you’re grilling brats, burgers, or just want a wagyu hot dog, our readers say this is your place.

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From friendly faces and great deals to a hassle-free experience, we’re here to make finding your next ride easy, enjoyable, and maybe even a little fun. Whether you’re ready to buy or just starting to look, our team is ready to help you find the perfect vehicle at the right price. Come see why Dobbs Brothers is making its way back to the top!

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Dobbs Brothers Chevrolet of Bartlett 7850 US 64, Bartlett, TN 38133 M-F from 8am to 7pm • Sat from 8am to 6pm (901) 382-5644 • dobbsbrotherschevy.com

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • GOODS

continued from page 30

PHOTO: COURTESY AMERICA’S FLOOR SOURCE

a stressful year here at the Flyer.. Like our readers, we turn to Memphis’ finest domestically produced CBD products at Ounce of Hope to stay calm while the whole world is turned upside down. Take it from us, their Buttercream Caramels are the 901’s finest edible.

BEST GARDEN CENTER 1. Urban Earth Gardens, Nursery & Market 2. Dan West Garden Center 3. Midtown Nursery

September 24-30, 2026

BEST FARMERS MARKET 1. Cooper-Young Community Farmers Market 2. Downtown Memphis Farmers Market 3. Agricenter Farmers Market

Since its beginnings in 2010, the little farmers market that could, nestled in First Congo’s parking lot, has blossomed into the city’s foremost purveyor of fresh produce, craft foods, and art. Partaking of its neighborhood’s copacetic vibes, it’s the perfect place to stroll, nosh, and imagine what recipes can best enhance all that farm-fresh goodness. BEST FLOORING STORE 1. America’s Floor Source 2. Kiser’s Floor Fashions 3. Memphis Flooring Company Floors. We walk on them every day without much thought. But for a home or business to look top-tier from the ground up, Flyer fans choose America’s Floor Source.

Best Flooring Store America’s Floor Source

There’s nothing like digging in the dirt, planting seeds, and watching them grow. Urban Earth has everything you need to start, expand, or otherwise beautify your home’s earthen landscape, and our readers consider them a go-to. BEST GIFT SHOP 1. Paradox at PeCo 2. Babcock Gifts 3. Cooper-Young Gallery + Gift Shop Accessories, decor, bath and body, and more: Paradox at PeCo’s unique selection of goods has placed it at the top of Flyer readers’ gift lists. BEST GROCERY STORE 1. Trader Joe’s 2. Superlo Foods 3. High Point Grocery Voters love Trader Joe’s so much, they drive all the way to (gasp!) Germantown to get its signature items, like the brand’s beloved mandarin orange chicken, chocolate peanut butter cups, and other treats.

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • GOODS

From everyday decor to seasonal celebrations, John Mark’s has floral arrangements, bits and baubles, and all the trimmings to create a stylish environment. BEST HOME FURNISHINGS 1. Bartlett Home Furnishings 2. Southern Vintage Co. 3. Ashley Homestore That rug really ties the room together. Or it could be the perfect chaise lounge or familysized couch. Flyer readers know where to go when they need the best in furnishings. BEST LINGERIE SHOP 1. Coco & Lola’s 2. Trousseau 3. A Fitting Place Ready to rock a “Romantic Rendezvous”? Or maybe you want to channel your inner “Femme Fatale?” Carrying

options from small to 3X, Coco & Lola’s is the perfect spot for all things lingerie. BEST LOCAL ATHLETICGOODS STORE 1. Fleet Feet Memphis 2. Grivet Outdoors 3. Breakaway Running BEST LOCAL STORE FOR SHOES 1. Fleet Feet Memphis 2. Breakaway Running 3. Joseph

PHOTO: MEMPHIS LOU

Best Gift Shop Paradox at PeCo (left to right) Lauren Vizenor, Evie Drescher, Celia Aloia

Ready to rev up your run game? Or are you striding towards a successful walk? Fleet Feet Memphis is more than just your local shoe store. Team members use an innovative fit process to find the perfect shoe for your athletic needs. continued on page 34 PHOTO: COURTESY FLEET FEET

Best Local Athletic-Goods Store; Local Store for Shoes Fleet Feet

MIDTOWN LINGERIE

————————— 710 S.COX ST. 38104 ————————— OPEN MON-SAT 11:30-7PM COCOANDLOLAS.COM

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BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

BEST HOME DECOR 1. John Mark’s 2. Southern Vintage Co. 3. Whitney Winkler Art & Shop

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • GOODS rocking. For generations, our readers have trusted Mednikow and its team of jewelers to lend their special occasions the perfect sparkle. BEST LOCAL STORE FOR MEN’S CLOTHING 1. Oak Hall 2. Oxbeau 3. James Davis

continued from page 33 PHOTO: KIM THOMAS

Best Local Store for Women’s Clothing Stock & Belle Allison Buchanan, model BEST LOCAL FINE JEWELRY STORE 1. Mednikow Jewelers 2. Sissy’s Log Cabin 3. Accent Jewelers Mednikow has established itself as a premier jeweler, with pieces made to make you shine as bright as the diamond you’re

Any store that’s been in business 167 years (!) has long earned its consumers’ trust — and Flyer readers’ votes — as the best place to go for quality men’s apparel. BEST LOCAL STORE FOR WOMEN’S CLOTHING 1. Stock & Belle 2. Indigo 3. Pickering Boxwood Shopping has never been so chic thanks to Stock & Belle. Whether you’re looking for the Instagram-worthy tailgate fit or a jaw-dropping cocktail hour drape, Stock & Belle is stocked with unique pieces to add to your closet.

Buy. Sell. Borrow. Trade.

September 24-30, 2026

Proud to be the official jeweler & gold buyer of the Memphis Tigers!

Thanks Memphis!

LARGEST SELECTION OF HOME DECOR & ACCESSORIES IN THE MID-SOUTH

for your votes as

82,000 SQ. FEET OVER 300 LOCAL SMALL BUSINESSES UNDER 1 ROOFTOP 2026

Thank you to the Memphis Flyer readers who have again honored us as their Favorite Antique Store! Mon-Sat Sun 10:00am-6:00pm 11:00am-6:00pm 34

684 West Poplar Avenue, Collierville, TN 38017 901.853.7822 • shefﬁeld-antiques.com

2026

Best Florist 2316 S Germantown Rd. Germantown 1149 Union Ave. Downtown/Midtown

901.753.2400 • hollidayﬂowers.com

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • GOODS BEST PLACE TO GET VINTAGE/USED CLOTHING 1. Flashback 2. Blue Suede Vintage 3. Goodwill

Having served the Memphis area for over a century, Amro connects customers with local musical history. Not only does traditional musicianship live on in a staff that includes some of the city’s finest players, their lessons and technical experience have served readers well over decades of music-making.

Flashback is a kind of Neverland where the travails of time are defanged as you browse through retro glamwear, denim jeans, jackets from long-bygone eras (like the ’90s), or hats that bequeath a whole backstory to you, along with the knickknacks and glassware — all of which seem factory-fresh and good as new.

BEST PET STORE ★ 1. Hollywood Feed 2. PetSmart 3. Petco

BEST RECORD STORE 1. Goner Records 2. Shangri-La Records 3. River City Records

What makes Hollywood Feed our readers’ overwhelming choice? Maybe it’s the homey feel of their locations, usually with a pup sleeping behind the counter and pet-pleasing baked goods on display. Yet it’s practical, too, with all the chew toys, leashes, litters, and foodstuffs your furball could ever want.

In a city known for its legendary record shops, Goner Records stands out among our readers. Their knack for sniffing out the latest, oldest, freshest, toughest, weirdest slabs of wax makes them a force of nature here, from the collectibles and new obscurities they curate to bands brought to town via Gonerfest.

PHOTO: CRAIG THOMPSON | MEMPHIS TOURISM

Best Record Store Goner Records BEST SHOPPING CENTER 1. Laurelwood Shopping Center 2. The Shops of Saddle Creek 3. Tanger Outlets Southaven Gifts, fashion, food, and more abound at Laurelwood, where one could spend an entire day indulging in retail (and culinary) therapy — and Flyer readers do!

BEST SPECIALTY TREAT SHOP 1. Dinstuhl’s Fine Candies 2. Sweet Noshings 3. Muddy’s Bake Shop As someone who’s toured the candy kitchen, I can verify real magic happens inside. Dinstuhl’s handmade caramels, brittles, and chocolates in all shapes and varieties have kept Memphians coming back since 1902.

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

BEST MUSIC EQUIPMENT STORE 1. Amro Music 2. Memphis Drum Shop 3. Martin Music

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026

SERVICES BEST AUTO REPAIR 1. Steve’s Tire and Auto 2. Wolfsburg Automotive 3. Dobbs Brothers Chevrolet of Bartlett Going-to-the-garage anxiety is real. Leave it at the door at Steve’s Tire and Auto. They’re friendly, easy to work with, and knowledgeable. Hang in their great waiting room, or, shoot, they’ll give you a ride to and from work or home. BEST BARBER SHOP ★ 1. 1776 Men’s Grooming Parlor 2. Barons Barbershop Painted Lady Barbershop 3. Gould’s Salon & Spa Old-school straight-razor shave? Check. Men’s haircuts from fades to pompadours? You betcha. Beard trims and hot towels all around? That’s why so many of our readers go to 1776 Men’s Grooming Parlor. BEST ELECTRICIAN 1. Ellendale Electric 2. Choate’s 3. Mr. Electric Whether seeking residential, commercial, or security service, our readers love Ellendale Electric enough to vote them to the top of Best of Memphis. Enough said.

September 24-30, 2026

PHOTO: COURTESY CHOATE’S

Best HVAC Choate’s

BEST HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES 1. Mr. Handyman of Memphis 2. Glass Brothers 3. Koala Insulation of the Midsouth Do you need repair work, carpentry, drywall and ceiling work, help assembling your bike, grill, or furniture, or other plumbing, remodeling, floor, or lighting work? Well, you get the picture: Mr. Handyman of Memphis is who our readers call. BEST HOTEL 1. The Peabody Memphis 2. The Memphian 3. Southland Casino Hotel Why is The Peabody our great city’s “storied” hotel? Its age. Its grandeur. Its ducks.

PHOTO: COURTESY CHRISTIAN BROTHERS HIGH SCHOOL

Best Independent School Christian Brothers High School Its lobby bar. Its rooftop parties. Memphis is lucky as a duck to have The Peabody. BEST HVAC 1. Choate’s 2. Stewart Plumbing Home Services Aire Serv 3. Major League Mechanical You’ve been outside recently, right? When your air conditioning breaks, it’s an emergency. It’s important to have it done right. Our readers trust that emergency to Choate’s.

BEST INDEPENDENT SCHOOL 1. Christian Brothers High School 2. Memphis University School 3. Briarcrest Christian School “Men for tomorrow. Brothers for life.” That’s the motto of Christian Brothers High School. The school follows the Lasallian tradition: to give a human and Christian education to the young and to promote peace and justice, with a commitment to service for the poor. PHOTO: JULIAN HARPER | MEMPHIS TOURISM

Best Hotel The Peabody Memphis

SERVICES 2026

Thank You Memphis

BEST INSURANCE AGENT 1. Larry Crum III, Larry E. Crum & Associates 2. Steve Womack, State Farm 3. Katie Abart, Shoemaker Insurance Solutions Elizabeth Rook Insurance Larry Crum III and Larry E. Crum & Associates are our readers’ insurance winners for having multiple locations, high reliability, and great customer service. They’ve been around for decades and know how to keep you covered. BEST LAW FIRM 1. NST Law 2. Evans Petree P.C. 3. Rice Law You know about Nahon, Saharovich & Trotz from TV, but readers who have used them also know they’ve got great resources to offer, along with a “no-win, no-fee” policy, great client communication, and a commitment to doing the best they can for you.

For Voting Us Best Tree Trimming Service

BEST LAWN CARE/ LANDSCAPING 1. Pettit’s Lawnscapes 2. English Garden 3. Mr. C’s Lawn Care

BEST LOCAL BANK OR CREDIT UNION 1. Orion Financial 2. Independent Bank 3. Paragon Bank Numbers certainly count at Orion Financial. Not only did it get our readers’ votes, but as the largest credit union in the Mid-South, it manages more than $1.2 billion in assets and serves about 70,000 members. It makes a difference because it gets the job done. BEST MOVING COMPANY 1. Two Men and a Truck 2. Big League Movers & Storage 3. Black Tie Moving You’ve got to move, and you continued on page 38

2026

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WE KNOW MEMPHIS TREES!

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BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Pettit’s Lawnscapes has been around for decades and offers full-service landscaping that shows its devotion to craftsmanship, great design, technical capability, customer service, and making your slice of heaven look beautiful.

PHOTO: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK | FACEBOOK

Best Moving Company Two Men and a Truck continued from page 37 have a lot of stuff. When friends don’t come through with some muscle, Memphis calls Two Men and a Truck to get the job done, which, honestly, sounds like all you need.

September 24-30, 2026

BEST VET 1. Walnut Grove Animal Clinic 2. The Pet Hospitals 3. Germantown Animal Hospital

BEST PET BOARDING/ DAY CARE 1. Walnut Grove Animal Clinic 2. BrownDog Lodge 3. Camp Bow Wow Walnut Grove Animal Clinic cares for cats and dogs, yes, but also small mammals, reptiles, and birds. Beyond routine veterinary care, they also do orthopedic surgery, dental work, boarding, and more. Voters trust the vets there to take care of all their non-human family members.

PHOTO: SKYLINN FUGIT

Best Tattoo Studio Trilogy Tattoos & Piercing Nathan Parten tattooing

PHOTO & FULL EAR CURATION: SYDNEY BARAKAT

Best Piercing Studio Trilogy Tattoos & Piercing BEST PIERCING STUDIO 1. Trilogy Tattoos & Piercing 2. Rose Quartz Body Adornment 3. INK Therapy

BEST TATTOO STUDIO 1. Trilogy Tattoos & Piercing 2. INK Therapy 3. No Regrets This U of M-area tattoo and piercing shop has had many first-place wins here in the

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • SERVICES Flyer’s Best of Memphis. It’s no surprise, seeing as how the artists on staff are great at their craft, whether it’s on or through the skin. Body art reigns supreme here. BEST PIERCER 1. Sydney Barakat, Trilogy Tattoos & Piercing 2. Britt Mallery, Rose Quartz Body Adornment 3. Brent Hale, Bluff City Tattoo Navel, helix, lip, or labret — whichever body part you’d like to pretty up with a piercing, our readers vouch that Sydney Barakat will give you a good poke. BEST PLUMBER 1. Smith’s Plumbing, Heating & Air 2. Choate’s Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Memphis 3. Stewart Plumbing Skilled workers from Smith’s have come through for me in a pinch on more than one occasion. For a hot water

emergency, new toilet needs, leaky faucets, faulty ACs, and other home issues, this is who Memphis chooses.

Developing Community. Since 1977.

BEST REALTOR 1. Peterson Wellford, The Firm 2. Todd “Too Tall” Adams, Keller Williams Realty 3. Max Rubenstein, Marx-Bensdorf Realtors The Firm’s Peterson Wellford brought “home” the top prize for local realtors. From the attic to the basement, Wellford has our readers covered when it comes to buying or selling a house. BEST REGIONAL COLLEGE 1. University of Memphis 2. Rhodes College 3. University of Mississippi Launched as the West Tennessee State Normal School in 1912, the bastion of both scholarship and sports now known as the University of Memphis has grown to host a student continued on page 40

Discover city living In the heart of downtown Ask about our specials and ﬂexible lease terms

THANK YOU, MEMPHIS!

We are truly honored to once again be named one of the Memphis Flyer’s — Best Insurance Agencies!

Thank you for your trust, support, and votes. We are incredibly grateful for the privilege of serving you and protecting what matters most. — Steve

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT US, VISIT:

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BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Being recognized among the top three year after year — and voted #1 in 2023 — means so much because it comes from you, our community.

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • SERVICES

THANKS MEMPHIS FOR VOTING BRENT HALE AS BEST PIERCER! 667 MONROE EXT. MEMPHIS TN 38103 (901)729-6002 BLUFFCITYTATTOO.COM @BLUFFCITYTATTOO

2026

PHOTO (ABOVE): ANNE MARIE SHARP

Best Tattoo Artist Abby Brooks, Trilogy Tattoos & Piercing (LEFT) ABBY BROOKS

“Kewpie from the Blessed Lagoon” by Abby Brooks

September 24-30, 2026

continued from page 39

body of around 20,000 and is now classified as an R1 doctoral university with “very high research activity.” BEST TATTOO ARTIST 1. Abby Brooks, Trilogy Tattoos & Piercing 2. Mary Lefeau, Rose Quartz Body Adornment 3. Darby Robertson, Hand of Mercy Tattoo Parlor David Yancy, INK Therapy Abby Brooks has an aptitude for “tattoos for your inner child.” Her work demonstrates an impeccable use of color and an inclination to whimsy. From Garfield to Sonny Angels, Abby will bring your vision to life.

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY 1. 901 Travel Co. 2. Regency Travel 3. All Things Travel Our readers go places with 901 Travel Co. The boutique agency gets top ratings from customers for going deep in research. They not only know the best places to visit, but also how to get perks and upgrades to make your travel memorable. BEST TREE TRIMMING SERVICE 1. Woodland Tree Service 2. Mister Tree Service 3. Robinson Tree Service Woodland has been synonymous with tree work in Memphis for a long, long time. “Think trees. Think Woodland” is their slogan, and that’s exactly what our readers do.

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026

BEAUTY

Best Body Contouring; Brow Lamination/Tinting; Clinic Injectables; Day Spa; Place for a Lash Lift or Tint; Eyebrow Threading; Place for Microneedling; Place for Skin Rejuvenation; Place to Get a Facial Germantown Day Spa BEST BODY CONTOURING 1. Germantown Day Spa 2. Glo Medical Aesthetics 3. Eden Spa & Laser Total Package Health & Wellness Spa BEST BROW LAMINATION/ TINTING 1. Germantown Day Spa 2. Sage+Honey Hair Co. 3. Eden Spa & Laser BEST CLINIC INJECTABLES 1. Germantown Day Spa 2. Levy Dermatology 3. Glo Medical Aesthetics BEST DAY SPA 1. Germantown Day Spa 2. Gould’s Salon Spa 3. The Well by Pavo

BEST PLACE FOR A LASH LIFT OR TINT 1. Germantown Day Spa 2. Sage+Honey Hair Co. 3. Sage Skin Spa BEST PLACE FOR EYEBROW THREADING 1. Germantown Day Spa 2. Arch 2 Arch Salon & Spa 3. Memphis Brow Girl BEST PLACE FOR MICRONEEDLING 1. Germantown Day Spa 2. Levy Dermatology 3. Skin Studio BEST PLACE FOR SKIN REJUVENATION 1. Germantown Day Spa 2. Levy Dermatology 3. Glo Medical Aesthetics continued on page 42

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

PHOTOS: KATELYN CAUGHRON; LAUREN FLOWERS PHOTOGRAPHY

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • BEAUTY

PHOTO: COURTESY DABBLES HAIR COMPANY

Best Hair Salon; Salon for Hair Color Dabbles Hair Company continued from page 41 BEST PLACE TO GET A FACIAL 1. Germantown Day Spa 2. Levy Dermatology 3. Skin Studio Eden Spa & Laser

September 24-30, 2026

The folks at Germantown Day Spa are committed to making you look and feel your best. Their team of professionals has solidified them as the premier spot for brow lamination, lash lifts, clinic injectables, and more.

PHOTO: COURTESY DABBLES HAIR COMPANY

Best Hair Stylist Lee Rector, Dabbles Hair Company BEST HAIR STYLIST 1. Lee Rector, Dabbles Hair Company 2. Wallis Ashley, Sage+Honey Hair Co. Lauren Watts, Pavo Salon 3. Nick Seccombe, Salon 387

BEST HAIR SALON 1. Dabbles Hair Company 2. Pavo Salon 3. Germantown Day Spa Salon 387 Sage+Honey Hair Co.

Put your tresses in the tremendous hands of Lee Rector. Sitting in Lee’s chair unlocks the potential for vibrant colors, impeccable styling, and pristine cuts. Leave it to Lee! You won’t be disappointed.

BEST SALON FOR HAIR COLOR 1. Dabbles Hair Company 2. Pavo Salon 3. Sage+Honey Hair Co.

BEST LASER HAIR REMOVAL 1. Levy Dermatology 2. Eden Spa & Laser 3. Glo Medical Aesthetics Skin Alchemy Memphis

Loving on your locks has never been easier thanks to the staff at Dabbles. Need the perfect blowout or a new color? Let the pros at Dabbles help you unlock your signature look.

BEST PLACE FOR LASER/ VEIN TREATMENT 1. Levy Dermatology 2. Eden Spa & Laser Glo Medical Aesthetics 3. Wallace Plastic Surgery Group

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 • BEAUTY Levy Dermatology’s staff puts your skin first. Their skilled professionals have helped them become the premier destination for laser hair removal and laser/vein treatment. BEST PLACE TO GET A TAN ★ 1. Honey Skin and Body Bar 2. Eden Spa & Laser 3. Custom Spray Tanning by Bari at SkinBody Memphis The team at Honey Skin and Body Bar believes you should “be sweet to yourself, honey.” Nothing screams self-care like the perfect spray tan. Their natural approach to spray tans gives you the optimal custom experience. BEST PLACE TO GET WAXED 1. Pretty Girls Get Waxed 2. Germantown Day Spa 3. European Wax Center At Pretty Girls Get Waxed, your appointment is more than a booking — it’s an experience. Their Waxperts are

dedicated to giving you quick and comfortable care. From Brazilians to bikinis, the team is focused on delivering the ultimate package.

PHOTO: MADI ALDRICH | KELLY GINN PHOTOGRAPHY

Best Place to Get a Tan Honey Skin and Body Bar

BEST SALON FOR HAIR EXTENSIONS 1. Pavo Salon 2. Sage+Honey Hair Co. 3. Salon 387 Looking for vivacious volume or luxurious length? The stylists at Pavo have got you covered. The salon offers tape-in, handtied, and halo extensions, offering a variety of options to upgrade your hair. BEST NAIL SALON 1. Nail Bar & Co. 2. Gloss Nail Co. 3. Germantown Day Spa Manis and pedis and gel, oh my! Nail Bar & Co. is the perfect destination for glamorous nails and toes. From French tips to hand-drawn designs, the professionals at Nail Bar & Co. are waiting to have you in their chair.

PHOTO: COURTESY PRETTY GIRLS GET WAXED

Best Place to Get Waxed Pretty Girls Get Waxed

For choosing us. For trusting us. For recommending us. For growing alongside us. For allowing us to do what we love.

pavosalon.com

pavosalon

pavo_salon

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Thank you.

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026

WELLNESS + HEALTH BEST BODY SCULPTING CLINIC 1. Eden Spa and Laser 2. Glo Medical Aesthetics Total Package Health & Wellness Spa 3. SkinBody Memphis Do you need some sculpting or muscle toning? Taking care of a little fat pocket? Some loose skin? Our readers love Eden Spa and Laser with its CoolSculpting and EMsculpt Neo technology. BEST CHIROPRACTOR 1. Cole Pain Therapy Group 2. Midtown Chiropractic 3. Memphis Spine & Sport Cole Pain Therapy Group has “been relieving pain and restoring lives for over 40 years.” Its five doctors offer chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, massage, shockwave therapy, and more. BEST COSMETIC SURGERY CENTER 1. Levy Dermatology 2. Wallace Plastic Surgery Group 3. NuBody Concepts Levy Dermatology can handle anything from acne scars and wrinkles to microneedling, facials, and Botox.

September 24-30, 2026

PHOTO: LAUREN FLOWERS PHOTOGRAPHY

Best Massage Clinic Germantown Day Spa Massage Therapy Team

BEST HEALTH/FITNESS CLUB 1. The Salvation Army Kroc Center YMCA 2. ATC Fitness 3. Memphis Jewish Community Center Grit Group Fitness The Kroc and The Y are so well known in Memphis, you recognize them without their full names. Both truly serve the community with more than just workout spaces. BEST HORMONE THERAPY 1. De La Belle Wellness & Spa 2. McDonald Murrmann Center for Wellness and Health 3. ZupMed Not feeling as spry and randy as you used to? De La Belle Wellness & Spa is our readers’ place to go to get topped off on T or loaded up with E. BEST IV HYDRATION CLINIC 1. Lakefront Wellness 2. ZupMed 3. Activate IV & Cryotherapy BEST WEIGHT LOSS CLINIC 1. Lakefront Wellness 2. ZupMed 3. De La Belle Wellness & Spa This summer being one of the hottest ever, hydration is imperative. And our readers know where to go to stay slim. Lakefront Wellness joins the ranks of BOM double winners.

B E S T O F M E M P H I S 2 0 2 6 • W E L L N E S S + H E A LT H

PHOTO: NATASSIA LOPEZ

Best Mental Health Professional My Mental Therapist

THANK YOU MEMPHIS 2026

FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF LEVY DERMATOLOGY & COSMETICS! We look forward to continuing to provide you with exceptional care for years to come. Suffering from back or joint pain? Our readers find solutions for all their personalized PT needs at OrthoSouth.

You have to drive east to get to Germantown Day Spa, our readers’ favorite massage spot. They offer all kinds of massage therapies, from basic deep tissue massage to hot stone massage to prenatal massage. They even have a massage technique to help with your stuffed-up sinuses!

BEST PILATES STUDIO 1. Club Pilates 2. Mind Body Haus 3. Grit Group Fitness

BEST MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL 1. My Memphis Therapist 2. The Retreat House 3. Ashley Nott Ellie Mental Health

BEST WELLNESS CLINIC 1. The Shot Nurse 2. Lakefront Wellness 3. ZupMed Lifesigns

Look around you and it’s not hard to notice that America is in the throes of a mental health crisis. In a closely contested category, one mental health clinic rose above the rest. Eight trauma-informed clinicians are ready to see you when you’re ready to get healthy. BEST PHYSICAL THERAPY 1. OrthoSouth 2. Campbell Clinic Orthopaedics 3. 901 PT OrthoSouth physical therapists work directly with your physician. Recovering from surgery? Dealing with a sports injury?

For a gentle, relaxing workout that’s easy on body and mind and effective for strength and flexibility, the people choose Club Pilates.

6254 Poplar Ave. ♦ 901-624-3333 6252 Poplar Ave. (The Cosmetic Center) ♦ 901-624-3333 1125 Schilling Blvd. E., Suite 105 (Collierville) ♦ 901-624-3333 levydermatology.com

2026

Thank you for Voting Club Pilates the BEST PILATES Studio IN MEMPHIS

The Shot Nurse has proven to be a trusted provider for immunization and medical wellness. Their nurses provide vaccinations, vitamin B12 and lipo shots, and more to patients in the Mid-South. BEST YOGA STUDIO 1. Mind Body Haus 2. Better Bodies Yoga 3. Hot Yoga Plus Midtown’s Mind Body Haus brings mental peace and physical fitness to the masses. This locally owned studio boasts a bevy of the city’s best yogis, teaching 45 public classes per week. You can even learn to teach yoga yourself with their 200-hour training school.

You don’t have to white-knuckle your way through a life you’re trying so hard to enjoy.

I help women get unstuck, trust themselves, and make choices for their own well-being, without needing those choices to be perfect or for someone else. Thanks Memphis for voting me one of the best mental health professionals!

East Memphis • Collierville Memphis-Lakeland Snowden Grove • Midtown Memphis

Ashley Nott, LCSW Individual Therapy for Women Memphis + Virtual Across Tennessee

therapyashleynott.com

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

BEST MASSAGE CLINIC 1. Germantown Day Spa 2. Gould’s Salon & Spa 3. Honey Skin and Body Bar

Low’s Bridal offers the region's most extensive collection (sizes 2–34), now including Martina Liana Luxe and exclusive Milla Nova designs.

Request Your Appointment

September 24-30, 2026

www.lowsbridal.com

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026

WEDDINGS + EVENTS BEST BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 1. Maggie Louise 2. Barefoot Bride 3. Low’s Bridal

PHOTO: TIFFANY HANLON PHOTOGRAPHY

Best Event Rental Venue Memphis Botanic Garden

PHOTO: (BELOW) CRAIG THOMPSON | MEMPHIS TOURISM

BEST CATERING COMPANY 1. Pink Flamingo Catering 2. Draper’s Catering of Memphis A Moveable Feast & Hog Wild Catering 3. Another Roadside Attraction Catering Amber Lovell, Pink Flamingo’s owner, says, “We will work day and night to develop the perfect plan for each and every event.” Types of catering include hors d’oeuvres, breakfast, dinner, luncheons, weddings, and bridal tastings. BEST EVENT DJ 1. DJ A.D. 2. DeepBlu Entertainment 3. 2 Types of Passion DJ A.D. has been spinning her unique blend of grooves since 2016. Nowadays, she’s one of the most in-demand DJs in the city, playing countless weddings and private parties, plus special public throwdowns like the Bey Day Extravaganza at Lafayette’s Music Room.

BEST EVENT RENTAL VENUE 1. Memphis Botanic Garden 2. The Kent 3. Orion Hill

BEST PLACE FOR MAKEUP ARTISTRY 1. Kasey Acuff 2. Kimberly Yasmine 3. Matt Gossett

The beautiful backdrop of Memphis Botanic Garden makes it a stunning venue for myriad events — weddings, expos, and anything in between. Memphians love to gather at the garden.

Whether you’re prepping for a photo shoot or shoring up your bridal glam, your face is in good hands with Kasey Acuff. The Mario Dedivanovic-certified makeup artist has glammed some of Memphis’ most glamorous girls. Let Kasey bring out your inner glow!

BEST FLORIST 1. Pugh’s Flowers 2. Lynn Doyle Flowers & Events 3. Holliday Flowers & Events

PHOTO: JAMIE HARMON

Best Event DJ DJ A.D. BEST EVENT PLANNER 1. Purple Door Planning 2. Reverie Wedding & Event Planning 3. Bella Poggio Events Need the details just so? From timing and decor to guest lists and vendors, Flyer readers trust Purple Door Planning to make their special event dreams come true.

From a dozen longstemmed roses to a bouquet of carnations on that special occasion, whatever your floral needs, Pugh’s blooms are like a warm hug, no stink about it. BEST PLACE FOR HAIR STYLING 1. Pavo Salon 2. Emily Cohen DeLaney 3. Sage+Honey Hair Co. The stylists at Pavo know their way to the perfect hair style for the event of a lifetime. Pavo’s professional team is adept at lavish layers, head-turning highlights, and more. Your signature style is one appointment away!

BEST PLACE FOR REHEARSAL DINNER 1. Bog & Barley 2. Folk’s Folly 3. Majestic Grille The beautiful 7,100-square-foot Bog & Barley serves classic Irish fare, drinks, and other items. Bring some of that famous Irish conviviality to your family gathering for a memorable wedding event. BEST WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER 1. Sam Sikes Photography 2. Anna Marie Photography 3. Michelle Evans Art Sam Sikes’ website encourages readers to “experience your moments with confidence.” The bride and groom can enjoy their day naturally, knowing someone is there to capture it all for the ages.

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Since 2012, Maggie Louise has been dedicated to becoming the ultimate destination for the bride-to-be. Whether you’re browsing their LTK for inspiration, or starting your bridal look from scratch, Maggie Louise is the perfect step towards “I do.”

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026

PHOTO: ALEX GREENE

Natchez film screening 2026

STAFF PICKS BEST ONE-OFF FILM SCREENING When Suzannah Herbert brought her latest documentary, Natchez, to the Crosstown Theater on February 19th, it felt like the whole town showed up. While not many Memphians knew the details at the time, we pulled up to support a Memphian who’s been making waves as a director for some time, and we were not disappointed! Indeed, we were drawn into the narrative, wherein what seems at first to be a quaint love of history among owners of the town’s antebellum mansions is revealed to be tainted with ongoing racial rifts and antiquated prejudices amongst all the splendor. Bravo to Memphis for showing up, and for getting it! — Alex Greene BEST PLACE THAT ALWAYS SMELLS LIKE WEED Game X Change on Union, next to the Smoothie King that may or may not be open, is reliably fragrant whether you need Pokémon cards or an old Bluetooth speaker. — Toby Sells BEST NEW ICE CREAM Stella’s Ice Cream is already a tradition in our family. It’s only been open one year! The amazing ice cream (What up Caramel Biscoff flavor?), cookies, and brownies get you in the door. The alwaysfriendly staff gets you coming back. — TS September 24-30, 2026

BEST COMMUNITY TO HELP The Memphis Hispanic community is under extreme duress from the Trump administration’s indiscriminate and often unconstitutional ICE deportation activities. Thousands of your fellow Memphians are being harassed and detained daily on nonexistent or trumped-up charges or on the basis of racial profiling. You can help. Support Hispanic businesses. Some of them, like most Mexican restaurants, are obvious, but for a more complete list of LatinXowned businesses, get in touch with Latino Memphis. And 48 while you’re on the website or the phone, see how you can

PHOTO: STELLA’S | FACEBOOK

Stella’s Ice Cream get involved. The organization advocates for health, education, and justice for the currently beleaguered Hispanic community. Reach out. Send them some money. Volunteer. Be part of the resistance. — Bruce VanWyngarden Visit latinomemphis.org for details. BEST PLACE TO SIT IN YOUR CAR WITH THE MOTOR RUNNING FOR SOME REASON This category used to belong to the parking lot at Overton Park’s Rainbow Lake. No contest. After months of constant surveillance, testing, and internal review, the king has been conquered. This year’s winner of the “Best Place to Sit in Your Car with the Motor Running for Some Reason” is the FedEx Office Print & Ship Center on Union, next to Firehouse Subs. Long may you reign, and long may you run (your engine, for some reason). — TS BEST BEER AND BURGER DIVE Coming up on its third birthday at that new-ish-looking spot on Central near Cooper-Young, Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint looks like that dive you used to love. (Mine was the P&H Cafe. RIP.) It’s dark with a chaotic/local/funny/sometimes-profane aesthetic. Jack Brown’s is the place you tell your kid not to talk about at school. But the great selection of beers and menu of amazing and inventive burgers makes you not really care if they do or don’t. — TS BEST NEW ADDITION Baron Von Opperbean and the River of Time. Artist Christopher Reyes fought for years to bring

his vision of interactive art experiences to Memphis. This year, the dream was finally realized in spectacular fashion. Baron Von Opperbean and the River of Time took over the shuttered Mississippi River Museum on Mud Island, transforming it into a high-tech, sci-fi wonderland that has already attracted tens of thousands of visitors in its first four months. — Chris McCoy BEST BOOK RELEASE EVENT INVOLVING OLD LABOR SONGS When Emily Yellin, John Lawson, and Carol Jenkins spoke about Rev. James Lawson Jr.’s posthumous book, Nonviolent: A Memoir of Resistance, Agitation, and Love, at the National Civil Rights Museum on February 20th, it was good to have a tissue handy to dry your eyes. You would have been shedding tears of joy more than tears of tragedy, though, despite the dark history being discussed: The deeply progressive spirit of Memphis was shining through on many levels, not least in terms of families coming together. Yellin, who co-wrote the book with the late Rev. Lawson, had been childhood friends with his son John, also attending that night. Yet the ultimate Memphis magic kicked in when Deborah Manning stepped up to sing “Which Side Are You On?” a cappella, taking everyone to church with an activist’s determination, and inspiring the packed room to sing along. — AG BEST NEIGHBORHOOD Cooper-Young. Fight me. Why? Let me count the ways: Young Avenue Deli, Cooper’s, Celtic Crossing, Cooper House Project,

PHOTO: COURTESY METAL MUSEUM

Metal Museum’s silver skull sugar spoon Java Cabana, La Roche, Grivet Outdoors, Goner Records, 901 Toys, Fawn, Burke’s Book Store (for crying out loud!), Maciel’s Tortas and Tacos, whatever is happening at the old Alchemy space and the old Tsunami space, Cooper-Young Festival, Porchfest, and the Cooper-Young Community Farmers Market. Then there’s the sheer walkability of the neighborhood, and all the other stuff I missed. — TS BEST GIFT SHOP The Metal Museum’s shiny new and expanded gift shop in Overton Park has a delightful array of goodies, and you can outfit your home, particularly your kitchen, with some of their goods. I’m partial to the silver skull sugar spoon, which is lovely, fascinating, and has holes in it so you can gently decrease your intake of sweetener. I recently acquired a more traditional spoon on which was stamped “Shit Stirrer” and I use it for, well, everything. — Jon Sparks MOST WELCOME COMEBACK Indie Memphis Film Festival. 2025 was the first year since 1998 that Indie Memphis did not hold a film festival. But the nonprofit got new leadership and battled economic headwinds to reboot the storied film festival Downtown — which is great, because it was a travesty that a city this size could not have a film festival. The newly refreshed fest will bring dozens of films of all kinds to the Halloran Centre and Malco’s Powerhouse Cinema this November 5-8. — CM

BEST OF MEMPHIS 2026 m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

steppin’ out

We Recommend: Culture, News + Reviews

From Thrift to Runway By Kimberly Ham Tako’s Secondhand is taking thrifted fashion from the clothing rack to the runway with its first-ever Fashion Show & Fundraiser Gala on September 25th. The evening will celebrate secondhand style, local creativity, and the possibilities hiding in the clothes and materials we already have. The event will feature emerging Memphis designers, stylists, and up-cycle artists, each creating new looks using secondhand clothing and/or materials. Erica Qualy, founder and co-owner of Tako’s Secondhand (along with the other co-owners Grace John, Kate PHOTO: MICHELLE EVANS Kelley, and Brookelyn Culley), says the idea grew from a desire to stage another fashion Tako’ s Secondhand co-owners show — and from the shop’s efforts to raise funds for a permanent brick-and-mortar Erica Qualy, Grace John, location. Brookelyn Culley, Kate Kelley “We’re all about secondhand and sustainability and making that mainstream, palatable, and cool,” Qualy says. “You can create new looks out of old clothing and threads.” And don’t expect the evening to feel like your average thrift-store outing. Guests are encouraged to dress up in their own best secondhand finds, with Qualy hoping to see “bold statement outfits, sequins, and handmade and bespoke pieces.” In other words, this is your chance to finally wear that fabulous thing that’s been sitting in the back of your closet, waiting for its moment. The runway lineup includes designers Nancy Cebrian of Mía Nance, Blaze Pointer of Junk, Sami Reed of Time To Waste Vintage, and Paige Hansen of Laleh Harker, along with stylists Ali Bush of Far Out Styling, James Waka Flocka Reed of Time To Waste Vintage, and Qualy herself (of Styled by Serena). Up-cycle artists Gabriella Lynne of GL Embroidery and Lex McCarrens of Moxie’s Boudoir, along with Angelia Sparrows of Love and Spite Creations, will also present their work. Khalifa Kofi will host, with DJ Prozak spinning vinyl. For Qualy, secondhand fashion is about more than sustainability. It’s also about individuality. “Secondhand fashion gives the buyer more of a chance to develop their own style and refine their own tastes,” she says. With a runway full of one-of-a-kind looks and a cause rooted in community, Tako’s first Fashion Show & Fundraiser Gala aims to prove that what’s secondhand can still make a big first impression. Proceeds will support Tako’s efforts toward a permanent location, with a portion of ticket sales benefiting local organizations that support Memphis’ LGBTQ community. For more info, check out Tako’s Secondhand on Instagram: @takos_secondhand TAKO’S SECONDHAND FASHION SHOW, TAKO’S COURTYARD, 240 MADISON AVE., SUITE 101, FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, DOORS 6 P.M., SHOW AT 7 P.M.

September 24-30, 2026

VARIOUS DAYS & TIMES September 24th - 30th

DO GOOD. BETTER.

901.726.5725 tnnonprofits.org

We help Mid-South nonprofits succeed.

2026 Latin Fest 901 Overton Square, Saturday, September 26, 11 a.m. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at this festival. Presented by Cazateatro, the family-friendly festival celebrates Hispanic and Latino arts and culture with a lively lineup of food, live music and entertainment, and activities for kids. “Weird Al” Yankovic: Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour Landers Center, Saturday, September 26, 8 p.m. “Weird Al” Yankovic brings his legendary comedy-rock spectacle to town. The full-production multimedia show will feature Yankovic performing his iconic parodies and fan favorites, including “Amish Paradise,” “Eat It,” “Like a Surgeon,” and “White & Nerdy,” along with songs he has never performed live

before. The five-time Grammy Award winner will be joined by special guest Puddles Pity Party, the seven-foot sad clown known for his powerful operatic voice and theatrical performances. Honoring Dolly: 9 to 5 Halloran Centre, Friday, September 25, 9 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m., and 9 p.m. See the hit 1980 film starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton, 9 to 5, which follows three working women who join forces to take on their sexist, tyrannical boss and reimagine a workplace on their own terms. These special free screenings at the Halloran Centre celebrate Dolly Parton and the enduring comedy of 9 to 5, which later inspired the hit musical that appeared on the Orpheum stage during their 2010-11 Broadway season.

Come As Thou Art: A Broadway Musical, Masquerade Ball, & Runway Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, Friday, September 25, 7 p.m. Come As Thou Art returns for an evening of music, fashion, and selfexpression. The evening will combine a Broadway-inspired musical experience, a masquerade ball, and a fashion runway, beginning with cocktails and a couture collection presented by designer and host Sonin Lee. Five Memphis-based fashion designers will showcase their latest creations as they compete for a spot in next year’s Memphis Art and Fashion Week. Guests are encouraged to dress to impress — costumes included — before hitting the dance floor for a stylish night of creativity, connection, and entertainment.

Saturday, November 7th 10am-4pm Crosstown Concourse PRESENTED BY

FEATURING

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! Discover one-of-a-kind gifts from a curated collection of the very best local artists & makers, sip craft brews, and soak up the holiday spirit in the heart of Midtown.

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

* t E K R A M Y A D I L O *H

FOR MORE INFO: MEMPHISCRAFTSANDDRAFTS.COM 51

MUSIC By Alex Greene

Stars of Gonerfest 23 . E G N A H C E H T E B BE A PATIENT. Becoming a patient at our clinic works as an act of resistance. You can have your care, and eat it, too.

September 24-30, 2026

Care is our counterstrike.

Goner Records’ annual gathering runs the gamut, like a ripsaw scrambling both music and history.

atching up with Goner Records’ founders, Zac Ives and Eric Friedl, is the best way to process the dizzying array of bands and sounds to be expected from their annual sonic soirée, Gonerfest, happening this year at Wiseacre on Broad from Thursday, September 24th, through Saturday, September 26th, and at the Overton Park Shell on Sunday, September 27th (visit goner-records.com for details). As always, the last day is free, but don’t sleep on the ticketed days, when so much of the rowdy, anything-goes magic happens. With four headliners this year, in addition to an international cast of other bands, here’s a cheat sheet on what to expect, courtesy of two key figures in Goner’s brain trust. Horsegirl Eric Friedl: Horsegirl comes out of Chicago and is loosely affiliated with a bunch of other younger bands there, like the Sharp Pins that played last year. They’re all kind of younger. There’s an energy coming out of Chicago and the Midwest now. The band Parking, that we also have playing, is tied in with them, too. It’s melodic post-punk, kind of angular and fractured a little bit, but not as abrasive or aggressive as other stuff. It’s pretty interesting, and they’ve gotten pretty popular doing a sound that I don’t think sounds like anyone else. Zac Ives: They’ve been on our radar for a while. But when they started, they were all still in college. Like, they were always in the first semester of school and they couldn’t get off to come and play with us before. So we’re excited that they are out of college! Toody Cole & Her Band Friedl: People have followed Dead Moon [Cole’s renowned band with her late husband Fred Cole and drummer Andrew Loomis] forever, and having Toody in the fest is just amazing. She’s playing with a younger band, and you know, judging by the footage I’ve seen of them playing, she hasn’t lost a step. It’s incredible. Ives: Her band with Fred before Dead Moon, The Rats, that stuff ’s all gotten reissued. They did a good job of putting that back catalog, that had been gone for a long time, back out several years ago. Yeah, that first Rats record stands with any of those late-’70s/early-’80s American, especially Northwest, punk records for me. Death Ives: Death got on everyone’s collective

radar when people started finding their 1976 single [“Politicians in My Eyes” b/w “Keep On Knocking”], and I think they ultimately made a documentary about how that 45 getting lost and then found was this big deal in record circles. Drag City wound up pressing an album of a bunch of unreleased tracks that were as great as the single was, and so the whole idea that there was this proto-punk band from the early ’70s out of Detroit that was all Black and made such an amazing record, I think, just really caught everybody by surprise in our little ecosphere. And while it all started with the three Hackney brothers [one of whom, David, died in 2000], recently the sons of those brothers, who are musicians as well, joined in. So now it’s this whole family-oriented kind of thing, a multigenerational Hackney thing with Bobby, who was from the original band, and two of the sons. The family nature of the band, both young and old, is really an amazing kind of thing.

PHOTO: COURTESY GONER RECORDS

Toody Cole & Her Band Man or Astro-man? Friedl: They are definitely legendary and just, really from the start [in the early ’90s, hailing from Auburn, Alabama], with no budget, they were determined to put on a show that you would not forget. They’re still the same way. And mixing that kind of punksurf music with the outer space angle gives them a little bit of latitude to get crazy with things. Now Brian Teasley from the band owns a venue called Saturn in Birmingham — a great club! At 10 a.m. on Saturday, Society Memphis, with Slovenly Recordings, will host a screening of We’re Loud Africa: The First Punk Festival in Kenya, documenting a 10-day tour of Africa by Death and many other bands in 2025.

AFTER DARK: Live Music Schedule September 24 - 30

With full band. Saturday, Sept. 26, 7 p.m. SOUTH MAIN SOUNDS

Orchestra Noir

Orchestral takes on hip-hop and R&B hits of the early and late 2000s. Friday, Sept. 25, 7:30 p.m. THE ORPHEUM THEATRE

Richard Wilson

With Ashlee Jean and Rachel Ross. Friday, Sept. 25, 7 p.m. SOUTH MAIN SOUNDS

WISEACRE ON BROAD AND OVERTON PARK SHELL

Green Bay UFO Memphis Invasion II

With Pet Mosquito, Smart Shoppers, Petty Grievances, The Scummies, ET Cruiser. Thursday, Sept. 24, 11:30 p.m.

1884 LOUNGE

American Muscle

With Snakewine, The French Irish Coalition, and Spoonful. Thursday, Sept. 24, 7 p.m. LAMPLIGHTER LOUNGE

Bit Brigade

Hot Fix Sideshow

Saturday, Sept. 26, 8 p.m. GROWLERS

Immersive Jazz Guided Meditation: Promises Monday, Sept. 28, 7 p.m. MEMPHIS LISTENING LAB

JAM-JAM1

Saturday, Sept. 26, 9 p.m. LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

Rock covers of game soundtracks. Saturday, Sept. 26, 8 p.m.

Jozzy

Burnt Witch

1884 LOUNGE

With Plus 3 Against Undead, Sibyl. Friday, Sept. 25, 8 p.m. HI TONE

Dot Dash Afterparty

With The Sheaves, Fruited Planes, Chris Burns & His Growing Concerns. Saturday, Sept. 26, 11:30 p.m. B-SIDE

Elevation Memphis (Tina Turner Tribute) Sunday, Sept. 27, 5 p.m. LAFAYETTE’S MUSIC ROOM

With Dottie, Rated R & Quis, and Marcus 901 & Phyouture. Friday, Sept. 25, 8 p.m.

Kirk Whalum with special guest Kayla Waters. Sunday, Sept. 27, 6 p.m. CROSSTOWN THEATER

Orion Financial Free Concert Series: Memphis Country Blues Festival Friday, Sept. 25, 5:30 p.m. OVERTON PARK SHELL

Pons

Also with Suroor, General Labor, and Plastic Mystic. Saturday, Sept. 26, 8 p.m.

SOCIETY MEMPHIS

HI TONE

Feel It Records

Preparty for Gonerfest

LAMPLIGHTER LOUNGE

With Liquids, Modlang, Gremlin, and Hustle Culture. Saturday, Sept. 26, 11:30 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 26, 7 p.m. SATELLITE MUSIC HALL

Sanctuary with DJ Brilli and Lana J.

A sound bath and live DJ set. Friday, Sept. 25, 7:30 p.m. THE GREEN ROOM AT CROSSTOWN ARTS

Airshow

A Nashville jam band. Friday, Sept. 25, 6 p.m. HERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY

Drew Hutson Rogers

Equal parts soulful songwriting and electric energy. Thursday, Sept. 24, 8 p.m. HERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY

Turnt, Jack O, Laundry Bats, Pepper & the Sausage Boys. Wednesday, Sept. 23, 9 p.m.

MAN OR ASTROMAN? DEATH • HORSEGIRL TOODY COLE & HER BAND THE DRAGS • JACK OBLIVIAN RYAN DAVIS & THE ROADHOUSE BAND CLOUDLAND CANYON WITH KID MILLIONS RETAIL SIMPS • IBEX CLONE GWENIFER RAYMOND • SLEEVEENS POWERPLANT • MEMO PST • ZOH AMBA ANIMAL PISS, IT'S EVERYWHERE • CARRION KIDS CHERRY CHEEKS • D SABLU • FRUITED PLANES FRANK MCLALLEN & EXTRA EYES • GENRE IS DEATH GROSS MOTOR • HELENE BARBIER • JEFFREY JOE JENSEN LOTTS • MOD LANG • ODDFELLOWS • OUTER WORLD • PARKING SHEAVES • SLIPPERS • SOUP ACTIVISTS • SPOONFUL • TY

Laid Back Country Picker

A hillbilly power rock duo blending 1970s guitar rock, honky-tonk, cowpunk, and old-school country. Sunday, Sept. 27, 6 p.m. HERNANDO’S HIDE-A-WAY

SEPTEMBER 24-27, 2026

Kafè Kirk, with Kayla Waters

With Cyprus, Grave Lurker. Saturday, Sept. 26, 8 p.m.

Encircled Throne

Project Pat

Ground Zero Blues Album Release

MEMPHIS LISTENING LAB

With Buffalo Nichols. Monday, Sept. 28, 8 p.m.

Sanctuary with DJ Brilli and Lana J.

LAMPLIGHTER LOUNGE

Morgan Freeman’s symphonic blues experience. Friday, Sept. 25, 6 p.m.

American Aquarium

PHOTO: COURTESY CROSSTOWN ARTS

Concerts in The Grove: Bailey Bigger Bigger brings a sense of wonder and depth to the Americana music scene. Thursday, Sept. 24, 6:30 p.m. THE GROVE AT GERMANTOWN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Shell on Wheels: Asian Night Market

Shell on Wheels partners with the Vietnamese American Community of Memphis and West Tennessee. Saturday, Sept. 26, 4 p.m. | Sunday, Sept. 27, 7 p.m. AGRICENTER INTERNATIONAL

WISEACRE ON BROAD • OVERTON PARK SHELL

TICKETS & INFO AT GONERFEST.COM

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Miz Stefani

More than 30 bands, full of surprises. Visit goner-records. com for details. Thursday, Sept. 24, 5:30 p.m. | Friday, Sept. 25, 1:30 p.m. | Saturday, Sept. 26, 1:30 p.m. | Sunday, Sept. 27, 5:30 p.m.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Gonerfest 23

CALENDAR of EVENTS: Sept. 24 - 30 Send the date, time, place, cost, info, phone number, a brief description, and photos — two weeks in advance — to calendar@memphisflyer.com. DUE TO SPACE LIMITATIONS, ONGOING WEEKLY EVENTS WILL APPEAR IN THE FLYER’S ONLINE CALENDAR ONLY. FOR COMPREHENSIVE EVENTS LISTING, VISIT EVENTS.MEMPHISFLYER.COM/CAL.

following the Harvest Moon, as September comes to a close, and you take the time to settle more deeply into autumn. Monday, Sept. 28, 6:30 p.m.

ARTS A N D S P EC I A L E X H I BI TS

“From the Bluff to the Park: The Metal Museum’s Collection Through Time”

THE BROOM CLOSET

The first major exhibition in the Metal Museum’s new home, this exhibition traces the history and evolution of the museum’s collections, from the Metal Museum’s founding in 1979 to its current expansion. Through March 21.

C LASS/ WOR KSH OP

Succulent Pumpkin Centerpiece Workshop

The instructor will walk you through taking cuttings of various succulent plants to propagate a wide variety right on your pumpkin. Sunday, Sept. 27, 1 p.m.

METAL MUSEUM AT OVERTON PARK

ART HA P P E N I N G S

URBAN EARTH

Member Reception for “An Investment in Pleasure: Fifty Years of the Dixon Gallery and Gardens Collection”

PHOTO: COURTESY ORPHEUM THEATRE

The Orpheum Theatre Group hosts four free screenings of the 1980 film 9 to 5 on September 25th.

Dixon members are invited to this opening reception. Explore the new exhibition, enjoy refreshments, and socialize with fellow Dixon members. Thursday, Sept. 24, 6 p.m. DIXON GALLERY AND GARDENS

musical groups. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2 p.m. MEMPHIS LISTENING LAB

B O O K E V E N TS

COM EDY

“Weird Al” Yankovic: Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour

“Weird Al” Yankovic is the biggest-selling comedy recording artist in history. He is best known for his parodies of the biggest musical artists, including Madonna, Michael Jackson, and others, with their personal blessings. Saturday, Sept. 26, 8 p.m. LANDERS CENTER

John Brackett: Touch of Grey, or How the Grateful Dead Became Pop Stars

COMM UN I T Y

FEST I VAL

Celestial Sound Bath: Gates of Return

is book tells the story of how one song transThe NewTh York Times Syndication Sales Corporation Join this Celestial Sound Bath in the days formed the legacy of one of rock’s most iconic 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release Monday, August 19, 2019

Honey Harvest 2026

Enjoy a beautiful evening at the Thistle & Bee farm, gather with friends, hear the stories behind their mission, and experience the community that has made ten years of Thistle & Bee possible. Sunday, Sept. 27, 5 p.m. BOBBY LANIER FARM PARK

Mid-Autumn Festival

Crossword ACROSS 1 Cow’s newborn 5 Upbeat, as an outlook 9 SWAT team actions 14 Singer India.___ 15 Aunt Bee’s charge on “The Andy Griffith Show” 16 Disney attraction in Florida 17 Trendy terms 19 Ragú rival

September 24-30, 2026

20 Palestinian territory bordering Israel

28 “Haste makes waste” and similar sayings

58 Snow queen in “Frozen” 59 To any degree 30 “Venerable” 61 Timesavers … monk of the or the starts of Middle Ages 17-, 26-, 36- and 51-Across? 31 “Able ___ I ere I saw Elba” 64 Scalawag 32 Ship’s wastewater 65 Peace Nobelist Wiesel 35 State led by Lenin, in brief 66 Length x width, for a rectangle 36 Magical powder in “Peter Pan” 67 Opening golf shot 39 “I do solemnly 68 Pepsi, for one swear …,” e.g. 69 Hang in the balance 42 Browned bread 43 “Fee, fi, fo, ___”

DOWN 1 Taxi 21 Busybody, from 49 Going from two 2 Peppery salad the Yiddish lanes to one green 23 ___ Dhabi, part 51 Style of collarless 3 Chameleons, e.g. of the United shirt Arab Emirates 4 Some Moroccan 54 ___ Pieces headwear 24 Most unspoiled (candy) 5 Aussie marsupial, 26 First host of 55 Nonkosher meat in brief “America’s Funniest Home 56 Say “Nyah, nyah,” 6 Grand Ole ___ Videos” say 7 Lesser-played half of a 45 ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE 8 Like some straightforward N E S T C E P A S A M P A S questions A L P H A M A L E L A R C H 9 Meal M A U I W O W I E A G I T A A I R S J A G A N I M A L 10 Its showers bring May flowers: T N T H I T H E R C E L L Abbr. H E S S E T A C O R O W 11 Periods with the C A L I T A N L I N E largest glaciers C L O R O X E N R O B E 12 Places for C H I T O W N N E A R pooped pooches H U M F R A T M E R C H 13 Having a heavier I G O R E Y E C U P A H A build C A R A T S J O N E T A L 18 Sushi bar A L I V E C A N D Y G I R L condiment N U D E S I N D I E G O G O 22 Atlanta-based A G E N T G O O D A S N E W channel 46 Stick back in the microwave

Edited by Will Shortz 1

No. 0715

21 25

CROSSTOWN CONCOURSE

FI LM

Honoring Dolly: 9 to 5 at the Halloran Centre

9 to 5 tells the story of three working women who live out their fantasies of getting even with and overthrowing the company’s tyrannical, sexist boss. Free. Friday, Sept. 25, 9 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m., 9 p.m.

Celebrate the season with traditional performances, food, and art. The evening will feature lion dances, folk dancing, live music, a fashion show, face painting, crafts, and mooncakes. Friday, Sept. 25, 6 p.m.

30 33

HALLORAN CENTRE 36 39

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48 52

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Hobbit Day Celebration with Opera Memphis’ 30 Days of Opera

50 54

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PER FOR M I N G AR TS

Celebrate National Hobbit Day with Opera Memphis in conjunction of 30 Days of Opera. Guided by the belief that music has the power to inspire, connect, and broaden perspectives, Opera Memphis aims to make opera accessible to all. Tuesday, Sept. 22, 6 p.m. NOVEL

SPEC I AL EVEN TS PUZZLE BY ED SESSA

24 Sound effect on “Batman”

38 Word before map or smarts

25 Candy bar packaged in twos

39 Apple production site

27 Touch geographically

40 Aquarium accessory

29 Open with a letter 41 Biblical group opener bearing gifts 33 Prefix with cache 43 Opening, as after an 34 Cheese from the earthquake Netherlands 36 “Glad that’s over!” 37 Addict

44 Like leftovers 45 British sports cars of old

47 “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” director 48 ___ Aviv 50 Tablet alternative 52 Trig ratio 53 Mexican artist Frida

Tako’s Secondhand Gala & Fashion Show

Come to the first-ever Tako’s Secondhand Gala & Fashion Show for a night of cool vintage vibes and runway fun. Proceeds will support efforts toward a permanent location, and will also help support Memphis’ LGBTQ community. Friday, Sept. 25, 6 p.m. TAKO’S SECONDHAND SHOP COURTYARD

57 Hard labor

T H EAT ER

60 Sentiment on a candy heart

From Footlights To Spotlights: Black Theatre’s Path

62 Stephen of “The Crying Game” 63 Unhappy

Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay.

On the anniversary of Hattiloo Theatre’s founding, this production aims to honor the journey of Black theater. From Footlights to Spotlights is a sweeping performance timeline that celebrates Black theater’s struggles, triumphs, and enduring impact. Tuesday, Sept. 22, 6:30 p.m. | Wednesday, Sept. 23, 6:30 p.m. HALLORAN THEATRE

We Saw You. with MICHAEL DONAHUE

uests expressed their inner superhero at Zoo Rendezvous, which was held September 11th at the Memphis Zoo. The website asked people to “come dressed as a hero, villain, or your own alter ego.” So it was a surprise to see who you might cross paths with — Wonder Woman, Spider-Man, Superman — as you ate, drank, listened to music, and enjoyed attractions. PHOTOS: MICHAEL DONAHUE

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

above: (left to right) Andrew Mire; Corey Hollywood, Ashley Bolden, Scott Fifer circle: Robert Cox below: (left to right) Buck Pfeifer, Crissie Pfeifer, Bekah Mullen, James Mullen; Autumn Cooley, Britten Klibert; Maggie and Jeremy Cavallo bottom row: (left to right) ML Gough Weber, Mark Weber; Kelsea Wertzberger, Aaron Persinger; Kyle Lauck, Purvisha Patel, Dharmesh Patel

FOOD By Michael Donahue

La Baguette Turns 50 Beloved bakery/restaurant celebrates a milestone.

G THE AWARDS ARE BACK, BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER.

September 24-30, 2026

Vote for your favorite family-friendly services and businesses in the Mid-South! To vote, visit : familychoice.memphisparent.com We’ll share the results in our December 2026 issue!

BALLOT OPEN SEPTEMBER

1 -28 ST

familychoice.memphisparent.com

old is the traditional gift for a 50th anniversary, but La Baguette French Bakery & Bistro already has its share of glistening gold baguettes and croissants. So instead of getting a present on its 50th, the iconic bakery/restaurant will give back with a free event. A special celebration will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on October 3rd at 3088 Poplar Avenue in Chickasaw Oaks. “It’s going to be really fun,” says general manager Tessa Pascover. “We’ve got live music. We’re setting up a photo booth.” They’ll also feature inflatables, face painting, and a spot where children can decorate sugar cookies and pick their own toppings and icings for single-serve cakes. People can also try to win prizes on a spinning wheel. These will include Eiffel Tower key chains, Frenchthemed flat bracelets, and La Baguette’s signature items, including baguettes and petit fours. There will also be a chance to win 100 free baguettes over the course of one year and five gift certificates for a dozen petit fours with no expiration date. Dating to 1976, La Baguette was started by several Europeans, former general manager Gene Amagliani told Memphis Magazine. They brought in a French bread baker and a French pastry chef because there was nothing like that in Memphis. In 2021, Tashie Restaurant Group purchased La Baguette. Since it was sold, the size of the bistro doubled, Pascover says. “They doubled the seating. The backroom was storage; now, it’s a dining room we rent out as an event space.” A lot of equipment was added, including a fryer, grill, and a flattop, so La Baguette is now able to offer more items besides sandwiches and soup in the bistro. The bakery was redone last June. “We hung bread up on the walls, trying to be French-inspired, and we added a whole other case for bakery items,” says Pascover. They brought back some customerrequested discontinued pastries, including the raisin Danish and almond poppy seed Danishes, and added gluten-free and vegan options (available every day). Asked what the most popular item

is, Pascover says, “The chicken salad sandwich and petit fours fight for the number-one-selling spot every week.” On the bistro side, the spicy tomato soup is “legendary.” And right up there with it is their French onion soup. They also offer a daily rotating soup, including creamy squash-and-corn chowder. As for future plans, Pascover says, “We’ve been taste-testing beignet recipes. That is coming soon, for sure. Another thing I’m interested in is pies … banana cream pies, key lime. That’s something we’ve never really done.” “We also are hoping to create little take-and-bake items,” Pascover says. “Maybe some cobblers or crinkle cake.”

PHOTO: MICHAEL DONAHUE

Tessa Pascover They may begin offering king cakes all year. They do 50 a day during the Lenten season. “The recipe is good,” says Pascover. “It doesn’t have to be Mardi Gras.” And discussions are underway on whether or not to get a liquor license and serve alcohol. What makes La Baguette special? “It’s got really nice life to it,” Pascover says. “And Chickasaw Oaks is just an amazing oasis smack dab in the middle of the city. It’s an escape to a different world when you come through those doors … the bricks and the plants.” One great thing about being half a century old is that the customers who came into La Baguette 50 years ago with their parents are “now coming in with their grandchildren.” Pascover wants those next generations to keep coming back. She instructs her staff to tell customers, “Yes. We’d love to do that for you.” “We want to accommodate our guests. We want to say ‘Yes.’”

BOOKS By Alex Greene

arly on in his new exploration of how we conceptualize the nature that surrounds us, Robert Macfarlane considers the power of pronouns. He’s not diving into the gender wars, but rather unpacking the consequences of imagining nature as an “it.” One example: In a 2021 letter from an inter-tribal coalition about protections for Utah’s Bears Ears region, activists wrote, “We relate to these lands who are alive.” Macfarlane quotes this and adds: “These lands who are alive. Words make worlds. In English, we ‘it’ rivers, trees, mountains, oceans, birds and animals: a mode of address that reduces them to the status of stuff.” This isn’t mere academic quibbling. As listeners will find when Macfarlane speaks about his book, Is A River Alive?, at the Spence Wilson Center for Interdisciplinary Humanities at Rhodes College on Thursday, October 1st, at 6 p.m., he brings a sense of urgency to rethinking such concepts. With climate change and environmental degradation running rampant, Macfarlane offers a perspective on the very heart of nature as it lives in our imaginations. And, as with his previous works like 2019’s Underland, he does so with a refined sense of both the poetry and the practicalities of the landscapes that surround us. This befits one who straddles several disciplines, which Macfarlane undoubtedly does as professor of literature and the environmental humanities at the University of Cambridge. Beyond that title, he also does work on “rights and well-being for humans, non-humans and the web of life that sustains us all,” and holds the Arne Naess Chair in Global Justice and the Environment at the University of Oslo. But what really qualifies him to speak comprehensively and deeply about such matters is his attention to language. By Macfarlane’s own account, he’s “an absolutely obsessive reviser and editor,” rewriting every sentence in his books “20, 30, or 40 times.” Yet what could be considered overwrought in the hands of others is deeply rewarding here, where he deftly conjures the pith and pulse of landscapes

as we experience them. The opening prologue alone is an exquisite evocation of a single nameless stream near Cambridge (on the River Cam) over eons. “Rain-fed, the spring’s stream surges seawards: gravity at work, or something like longing. The stream joins the river who winds in fat meanders to its mouth where at last — between bronze beaches — it reaches the ocean, and is havocked into waves by tide and wind’s commotion. Shadows shift between the trees around the spring: here are people for the first time, drawn to this place where water is born.” Reminiscent of the opening of Richard Powers’ The Overstory, which portrays a single tree over the course of a family’s generations, Is A River Alive? sets a tone of awe and inspiration in the face of the persistent natural companions to our lives, so often ignored in our prosaic pursuits. And herein lies the tremendous value of mixing the sciences with the subtler nuances of the humanities, so regularly under threat today. The poetry of the book stirs us to see our surroundings with fresh eyes. And yet there is some solid reportage here as well. Exploring how a simple attribution of life to rivers (or forests, or mountains) “changes the world,” as he puts it, he focuses on three landscapes in particular: the headwaters of the Río Los Cedros in the mountains of Ecuador, “the wounded creeks, lagoons and estuaries of the watery city of Chennai in south-east India,” and the area locals call Nitassinan, hundreds of miles north of Montreal, homeland of the Innu people. As he writes, “each is a place where rivers are understood in some fundamental way to be alive — and in each place, too, the survival of rivers is under severe threat.” Memphians who treasure the Mississippi River that churns just beyond our bluffs will find some crucial insights here, as when he considers the shifting nature of our local waterway. “The Mississippi, like any unhindered river occupying a wide floodplain over time, was restless. It wandered, in great hooping loops.” In charting the river’s comings and goings, Macfarlane writes, the cartographer Harold Fisk “had mapped the Mississippi’s memories.”

THEATRE BY THE LAKE FRIDAY, SEP 25 @ 7PM

LOVE’S LABOR’S LOST

The King of Navarre & his men swear off distractions, to dedicate themselves to their studies. When the Princess of France & her ladies arrive, all bets are off! Which of the men will declare their love first? Join us on the banks of Lake Appling at BPACC for this outdoor performance as Tennessee Shakespeare brings this comedy to life! Director – Stephanie Shine FOOD TRUCKS & FAMILY FRIENDLY

FREE! (Rain Plans, same day, in BPACC)

TICKETS @ BPACC.org

901.385.5588 — Box Office Hours — 10a.m. to 2p.m. Michael Bollinger — Artistic Director

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

Cambridge University’s Robert Macfarlane explores “an idea that changes the world.”

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Is A River Alive?

NEWS OF THE WEIRD By the editors at Andrews McMeel Syndication

Mended Therapy

September 24-30, 2026

Combining mental health with a love of fashion, creativity, and sustainability, Mended Therapy was born. Ashley wants to show that although things may seem like they cannot get better, there is hope. Just like a mended piece of clothing is brought new life, the same can be said of us. She is here to walk with you through this journey with laughter, creativity, and challenging your beliefs about yourself. She is MENDED (and constantly mending). She hopes you will let her join you as you MEND.

Ashley specializes in working with LGBTQ+ populations and mood disorders. For more information or to book an appointment, visit mendedtherapypllc.com. Now taking clients for Mended Therapy Group. Please go to the website for more details. She currently accepts Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, Quest Behavioral Health, All Savers (UHC), Health Plans Inc, Optum, Oscar, Oxford, Surest (Formerly Bind), UHC Student Resources, UMR, UnitedHealthcare, UnitedHealthcare Shared Services (UHSS), UnitedHealthcare Global, and UnitedHealthcare Exchange Plans (ONEX) insurance plans. She does provide a superbill for out-ofnetwork clients if they want to submit to their insurance. Self-pay is $125 for individual sessions.

Oops The winner of the Aug. 30th Sydney Marathon earned a unique medal to commemorate the race. The Sydney Morning Herald reported on Aug. 23rd that the medal depicts engravings of familiar landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. What designers meant to include: Sydney’s Allianz Stadium. What they actually included: Munich’s Allianz Arena. You read that right — a Munich, Germany, landmark on an Australian marathon medal. With the event coming up too soon to correct the error, a marathon spokesperson said the medals would not be changed. “We’re not going to run from it,” a marathon spokesperson said. “It was an unfortunate error, though it’s certainly given everyone something to talk about this weekend, mostly in good humor.” Germany’s Allianz Arena took to Instagram to join the fun: “Perhaps they tried to find something else they had in common: Allianz Arena — Sydney Opera — Unique Architecture — Both are worth a visit!” [The Sydney Morning Herald, 8/23/26] Cephalopod Chaos On Aug. 16th, a Rhode Island road was closed to traffic for eight hours while workers cleaned up 20 tons of spilled squid, ABC News reported. A tractor-trailer was taking the squid to a processing facility when the trailer part dislodged from the cab and tipped over as the driver tried to make a turn. Not only was traffic blocked across four lanes, but locals also had to contend with the smell. “Squid has a distinctive odor to it,” Richard Stevens, a neighbor and fisherman, said. “It can be very foul-smelling, especially if it lands on the road and stays there for a while.” No one was injured, but Rhode Island State Police cited the driver for failing to secure a load. [ABC News, 8/18/26] Cool Sea Rescue Two fishermen were lost at sea for five days and survived by floating in a large blue cooler, People reported on Aug. 21st. The unnamed fishermen, ages 32 and 53, had sailed on their own boat and last spoke to their fishing cooperative on Aug. 14th. When a few days went by with no contact, members of the cooperative reached out to the Mexican Navy on Aug. 19th for help. After a search by surface and air units,

personnel found the men 150 miles off the coast of Chiapas in southern Mexico. They were pulled onto the navy ship, where they received medical attention and were later reunited with their families. [People, 08/21/26] Biting His Head Off Amy Arlene Baker, 43, of Boca Raton, Florida, is charged with aggravated battery after biting her husband’s ear off during an argument, NBC 6 Miami reported on Aug. 20th. The couple was on Interstate 95 driving home from a party in Fort Lauderdale when they started fighting about relationship issues. As the argument escalated, police say that Baker struck her husband with her hand before grabbing his face and biting his ear, tearing a small section of it off. Baker claims that he hit her and that she was provoked by him telling her to “shut up” prior to that. Her husband drove to the nearest hospital, where he had to have surgery to reattach the missing portion of his ear. Baker is also charged with two counts of child neglect, as the couple’s two children, 7 and 1, were in the car when the incident occurred. [NBC 6 Miami, 08/20/26] Gas Station A teacher in Georgia recently went viral for a special space she made in her classroom — a “fart corner.” Today. com reported on Aug. 25th that second grade teacher Candy Sydney-Browning created a “gas station” in her classroom for students who just need to let one rip. “I have a very weak stomach, so I cannot take it,” Sydney-Browning said. The gas station is marked with a yellow sign that reads “GUSTY WINDS AREA,” and students are not required to raise their hands to ask permission to visit the gas station. The students have taken the corner in stride. Sydney-Browning said some initially turned around or smiled when someone needed to visit the gas station, but soon no one was paying attention. “It just became a norm,” she said. [Today.com, 8/25/26] Send your weird news items with subject line WEIRD NEWS to WeirdNewsTips@amuniversal.com. NEWS OF THE WEIRD © 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication. Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Your spirit creatures for the coming weeks are the slow-moving giant tortoises of the Galápagos Islands. They can live for more than a century. They conserve energy, move deliberately, and carry their protection with them. I believe you will benefit from embracing their ways in the coming weeks, Taurus. Refuse to be rushed or pressured, either by others or yourself. Proceed at the precise rate you need to. Your natural strength will thrive through your incremental steadiness. P.S.: Consider giving yourself a tortoise nickname. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): A master perfumer composes a fragrance in three layers. The top notes are what you smell first. They’re vivid and volatile. The next layer blooms gradually, unfurling the heart notes of the fragrance. Underneath everything are the deep, resinous base notes, which don’t fully reveal themselves for hours and cling longest to the skin. Let this be a metaphor to guide your joys and pleasures in the coming weeks, Gemini. Relish the bright top notes that flare and vanish, but persist long enough for the heart to open, and longer still for the deep base notes to emerge. Gather all the rich delights, not just some. CANCER (June 21-July 22): It’s hard, scary work for a crab to molt its shell and grow a bigger one. As it waits for its new protection to grow, its soft, tender body is exposed and vulnerable. That’s why it often hides in rock crevices, neither moving nor eating until its armor returns. Your situation, dear Cancerian, isn’t nearly as dire as the poor, defenseless crab’s. But as you power through your own personal molting season, I urge you to enhance your psychic protection. You need to feel extra safe and secure. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Bats navigate by echolocation. They send out sounds and interpret the echoes. But when competing for food, they may also jam each other’s sonar, generating acoustic interference that makes navigation harder for rivals. A similar phenomenon occurs in human populations. Some of the noisy talk we hear is other people’s jamming signals.

Consciously or unconsciously, they’re creating interference that may make it harder for us to navigate. Now is a good time for you to learn better how to distinguish between real information and meaningless hubbub. Refine your filters. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Jan Tschichold (1902–1974) was a brilliant typographer who revolutionized graphic design. He left his mark on millions of books. But later in life, he rejected some of his own rules, returning to classical typography and critiquing his earlier work as too rigid. In this spirit, dear Virgo, I will ask you if some of your long-standing rules no longer serve you. Is it possible that some of your own “best practices” may have calcified into unexamined dogma? The coming months will invite productive heresy against your past selves. You’re allowed to contradict your earlier convictions. Hint: Your vigorous evolution requires it. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In the volcanic seas around Iceland, underwater eruptions sometimes build entirely new islands that rise from the waves as bare, black rock. During the ensuing years, wind and waves and seabirds seed them with life. Mosses, lichens, hardy plants, and nesting birds slowly transform the raw lava into a living shore. I’m rooting for you to instigate a similar process, Scorpio. My prediction: A development that initially seems stark or unfinished could become fertile ground for growth. Your perceptive instincts will recognize possibilities before they are obvious to others. Be patient with beginnings that look raw. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): I invite you to achieve minor miracles that will enable you to brag at parties about how you created something out of nothing. Not in a loud, egotistical way, but with a sly glimmer in your eye, as if you’re sharing secrets about how reality can be coaxed into generosity if you approach it with imagination and chutzpah. Yes, dear Sagittarius, I’m ecstatic to inform you that now is a favorable moment to turn scraps into usefulness, boredom into invention, and vague hunches into tangible results. Be alert! Be on the lookout! Scout around for raw materials that have been overlooked or dismissed. Half-abandoned projects? Mercurial inclinations? Fugitive fantasies? Seemingly idle conversations that reveal marvelous glints and gleams? These are examples of the “nothings” you can turn into treasures. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I’ve got a rough, tough assignment for you: Dare yourself to be startled by your own exquisite beauty. Be bold and even brazen in appreciating what a marvelous creature you are. Can you summon the necessary audacity? I think you can. Please notice the ways you have underestimated your

gifts, minimized your impact, or edited out your brilliance to make others comfortable. Allow yourself to feel the tender shock of recognizing that you’re more interesting and mysteriously compelling than you’ve been trained to believe. P.S.: This will help you call on even deeper inner resources in the coming weeks. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian writer Virginia Woolf was a fount of interesting ideas. Sometimes she pushed her active mind to track them down and capture them, but on other occasions, she enjoyed gathering gems that arrived as her imagination wandered and drifted. These “moments of being” provided her with small treasures while she was walking in nature, taking a bath, or doing nothing in particular. I believe that you are now primed to experience many such pleasurable eruptions of insight. In the coming weeks, pauses and lulls and intermissions will open unexpected portals. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): For the low price of $199, I could expertly dispel that annoying curse you’ve been lugging around. But I would feel sleazy taking your cash when you are fully capable of zapping the curse yourself. So instead I will recommend that you perform the banishing ritual, then write yourself a check for $199. Here’s how. Step 1: Visualize an object that represents the curse. Imagine hurling it into a beach bonfire and watching it burn. Step 2: Bring to mind a person you believe contributes to the curse. Envision a rope that ties the two of you together, waist to waist. Then imagine yourself revving up a chainsaw, slicing through the binding, and declaring, “You have no power over me!” Step 3: Roll on the floor as you laugh and cry tears of giddy release.

Fear of Fear of speaking speaking keeps keeps many many people people from from being being heard. heard. you stutter, stutter, IfIf you visit us for for help help If you stutter, visit us and information visitinformation us for help and online at andonline information at StutteringHelp.org online at StutteringHelp.org StutteringHelp.org

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TUTTERING TUTTERING SSTHE OUNDATION F FASOUNDATION TUTTERING Nonprofit Organization ASince Nonprofit Organization 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter FOUNDATION Since 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter ® ®

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m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

ARIES (March 21-April 19): In the practice of niwaki, Japanese gardeners shape trees so they look both natural and artfully composed. They prune and style the branches to dramatize the tree’s inherent character. Their goal is to collaborate. I recommend you experiment with a similar approach in the coming weeks, Aries. Try partnering with the living processes in your sphere rather than simply imposing your will on them. Ask yourself: What is trying to flourish here? Can I coax out some useful beauty? How can I coordinate my own intelligence with nature’s intelligence?

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In the 18th century, Libran philosopher Denis Diderot was instrumental in creating the Encyclopédie. It wasn’t the first compendium of the world’s knowledge, but it was the most ambitious and comprehensive. In 28 volumes, it assembled contributions from a large number of writers, including leading figures of the French Enlightenment. Robust collaboration was key to its enduring influence. In the coming weeks, Libra, I’m hoping that you, like Diderot, will be an initiator and facilitator of rich cooperation. Conversations, partnerships, and shared projects could generate insights that none of the participants would have discovered alone. By inviting multiple perspectives into the discussion, you will help cultivate a fertile weave of ideas.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

FREE WILL ASTROLOGY By Rob Brezsny

ARTS By Chris McCoy

‘What Remains Visible’ Abstract artists from London to Los Angeles gather in Memphis for a major exhibition.

September 24-30, 2026

ver the past few years, a growing group of artists from London to Los Angeles have gathered to show their art in Memphis. “They’re all abstract works by abstract artists — people who have a sustained dialogue with abstraction,” says Paul Behnke, a Memphis artist and founding member of this abstract international. Behnke is a graduate of the late, lamented Memphis College of Art who decamped to seek his fortune in the New York art world. When fellow painters Christopher Blyth and Robert Melzmuf contacted him about the prospects of showing their work in Europe, he connected them with his friend Karl Bielik. “They wanted to do a show that would connect New York painters and London painters,” says Behnke. The result was “Cross Currents,” a New York exhibit of abstracts from both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. A few months later, Bielik and painter Rob Hall organized versions of the show in

London and Yorkshire, England, called “The Shadow Side of Everything.” The group continued to grow with progressively larger shows in New York and Los Angeles. Meanwhile, after spending three years in Taos, New Mexico, Behnke returned to Memphis, where he reconnected with Lisa Williamson. “Lisa and I met at the Memphis College of Art around ’95,” says Behnke. “Lisa invited me to work and share a part of her studio space. We’ve had a couple of small group shows with Jodi [Brewer] in the last couple of years over at Marshall Arts.” After the latest iteration of the abstract international shows in New York, Williamson had the idea of organizing one in Memphis with Marshall Arts owner Pinkney Herbert. “He was with us at the show in New York, and something I noticed that was just very different, because I’ve been in Memphis my entire art career, and something Paul would talk about after moving back, was the community of artists that had grown throughout

his work in New York,” Williamson says, “and all the connections he had made and the friendships and sharing of information. I thought that should be in Memphis. We had a little bit of that going on, but then it also felt like during Covid, a lot of that sort of dispersed.” “What Remains Visible” will open Saturday, October 3rd, at Marshall

PHOTO (ABOVE LEFT): COURTESY THE ARTIST

Paul Behnke, Almost the Sun; PHOTO (ABOVE): COURTESY THE ARTIST

Lisa Williamson, Hard to Say Goodbye Arts. Six curators — Blyth and Melzmuf in New York, Bielik and Hall in London, David Leapman and Jenny Hager in Los Angeles — join

ARTS By Chris McCoy

A FOOD AND BEVERAGE INDUSTRY SUPPORT GROUP OFFERING COMMUNITY, HOPE, AND A PATH FORWARD TO THOSE WHO STRUGGLE WITH SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND ADDICTION.

BEN’S FRIENDS MEMPHIS MEETING

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16TH ANNIVERSARY

OCTOBER 25, 2026

B e n e f i t t i n g t h e H e r b Ko s t e n P a n c r e a t i c C a n c e r R e s e a r c h F o u n d a t i o n

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the community these artists have. Most of us have been aware of each other and known each other for a long time, and we’ve had these exchanges for years. It’s so great to be able to do an exhibition that focuses on that community and something we all share in that community,” he says, “which is the belief in paint and painting as a relevant medium, still able to communicate in this day and age. “That’s something that I’m really thrilled about. Everybody has their own ideas about where they’re coming from, content-wise,” Behnke continues. “But one thing we share is that we believe painting is important.” “What Remains Visible” runs October 3-31 at Marshall Arts gallery, 639 Marshall Ave.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Williamson and Behnke in curating 58 artists working in the abstract space. “Sometimes, we think that Memphis isn’t going to be one of the big art stops, like New York or LA or Miami,” says Williamson. “But all the artists were thrilled.” Eleven of the artists — Williamson, Behnke, Herbert, Brewer, Hamlett Dobbins, Roy Tamboli, James Inscho, Jennifer Turnage, Anthony Lee, Jodi Hays, and Linda Pelts — are Memphians. “They kind of run the gamut,” says Williamson. “There aren’t a lot of hard-edged abstract pieces. That’s something unique. ‘Abstract’ can cover such a broad range.” For Behnke, it’s the culmination of a longstanding project which spans oceans. “I just wanted to emphasize

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technology solution delivery. To review the full job description and apply, go to https://www.stjude.org/jobs/alsac.html (Job ID R0011170). ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL has openings in Memphis, TN for: Senior Data Analyst (JobID SJ024GAB): Analyze quantitative/qualitative healthcare data for institutional decisions: Master’s degree, or equiv. in CompSci, Data Science, Info Sys, or rel field plus 2 yrs Data Analysis, Database Develop. or rel exp w/programming querying languages such as SQL; developing reports w/ reporting tools; utilizing data visualization tools; automating processes/reports; gathering business requirements; developing/implementing analytical applications to transform raw data; analyzing, manipulating, processing large sets of data; creating data pipelines and randomization logic; recommending data-driven solutions. In lieu of Master’s plus 2 yrs, will accept Bach or equiv plus 4 yrs Data Analysis, Database Develop. or rel exp including 2yrs of specific noted experience; Data Analyst II (JobID SJ023GAB) Design/develop structured/unstructured databases and/

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THE LAST WORD By Deborah M. Clubb

In Her Shoes

THE LAST WORD

The first homicide in Shelby County in 2026 came on January 4th when Ray Dowdy, 88, shot May Dowdy, 81, to death inside their Memphis home. He was charged with second-degree murder. He said he got angry in a disagreement and lost control and shot her. In April, Jackson Hooper pleaded guilty and accepted a prison sentence of 40 years for shooting and killing his ex-girlfriend Ellie Young after a breast cancer run at Shelby Farms in 2024. James Hawkins awaits execution on Tennessee’s death row for stabbing to death Gaither Hawkins, mother of his three children. He then forced his 12-year-old daughter to help cut her into pieces and dispose of her in Mississippi. She testified that Hawkins killed PHOTO: DEBORAH M. CLUBB her mother when the woman threatened to tell police that Hawkins Activists of all genders raise their voices, walk together, and stand against had sexually abused the child for years. Her grandfather also was later violence towards women and girls. sentenced to 50 years for raping two young family members. The FBI maintains a list of the top 10 states for men murdering women. Tennessee was on that list 20 of 24 times between 1996 and 2020. Shelby County has a higher prevalence of childhood sexual abuse and violence between adults in the home than both the state and the nation. TBI data from 2025 shows more than 16,000 domestic violence offenses were reported in Shelby County, more than 14,000 of them in the city of Memphis. Reports this year are at the same pace. More than half of DV aggravated assaults involved guns. A fourth of the city’s homicides this year were committed by a “loved one” using a gun. Domestic violence, and more specifically intimate partner violence (IPV), is in every ZIP code, every community and neighborhood, every congregation, and most workplaces. Efforts to identify the risk of lethality and protect victims is one challenge among advocates. Another is the heartbreaking refusal of some men to stop beating, choking, slapping, kicking, stabbing, stalking, breaking, tormenting, raping, isolating, demeaning, and killing women and girls in their families and in their communities. Women don’t torture and/or murder men at anything like the rate that men kill women. Cases of women killing men are most likely to be self-defense against an abusive male partner. Nine of 10 women murdered by men are killed by someone they know. Guns have boosted the deadly danger astronomically. Death is five times more likely when a gun is present during intimate partner violence. A website called Women Count USA: Femicide Accountability Project attempts to track murders of women and girls allegedly killed by men and boys. Its one-woman staff, Dawn Wilcox, says, “Male violence against women and girls is a preventable public health crisis. Femicide, domestic violence, and sexual assault are intolerable violations of the basic worth, dignity, and human rights of women and girls in the United States and the world.” Support for the Violence Against Women Act, which has funded DV shelters, advocates, prevention efforts, and more since 1994, is shrinking under current federal administrators. At the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in January, the United States for the first time in 70 years voted “no” on steps to strengthen access to justice for all women and girls. Political polarization, the organized, well-funded pushback on gender equality, and the regression of women’s rights are a clear and present danger to the safety and well-being of more than half of our population. It can certainly seem that the most dangerous place for a girl to be is with a boy who swears he loves her. Thankfully, we know that most men and boys are not vicious and can be engaged in helping change those who are. It is indeed men and boys who will end this danger by embracing systems that are responsive, caring, equitable. And accountable. On Saturday, October 3rd, Memphis’ 15th annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event will see men walking shoulder-to-shoulder with women to show their commitment to ending intimate partner violence, rape, sexual assault, stalking, and harassment. Walkers will gather in Handy Park starting at 10:30 a.m. Daring men will borrow high heels from among those on display, though it’s not required. After a rally at 11:30 a.m., the walk will head west on Beale to Front Street, south to Talbot, east to Main, and back to Beale and the park. Registration is $20 for the general public, $10 for students with ID, and free for those under 18. Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is a stunt with a deadly serious message: Ending violence against women and girls is up to men and boys. Men and boys must change their behavior — and help those who are violent to stop — before the litany of pain and suffering will change. Deborah M. Clubb is executive director of the Memphis Area Women’s Council, coordinator of the Memphis Says NO MORE campaign, and lead on the domestic violence awareness education priority of the new Coordinated Community Response to Domestic Violence convened by the University of Memphis Public Service Institute. Pre-register for the walk at eventbrite.com or see more information at memphiswomen.org.

m e m p h i s f l y e r. c o m

The domestic violence awareness walk returns October 3rd.