River City, TN June 2025 by City Lifestyle

June - The Gentlemen's Issue

June in Memphis arrives loud and clear—sun blazing, music spilling into the streets and weekends made for patios, pools and grills. It's a time when routines loosen up, and summer energy takes over.

For our annual Gentlemen's Issue, we spotlight local guys who bring passion, talent and grit to everything they do.

We start with the brothers behind Ecco, whose culinary creativity and family bond (plus a hand from LP3 Builders) have continued to expand the local favorite. From there, we head to Buster's Butcher Shop, where quality cuts and oldschool service make it a go-to for Father's Day grilling or a Saturday night dinner.

Style is front and center this month, too. Colin Chapman shares tips for looking sharp and staying cool—whether it's date night or cleaning up nicely. And the team at Plastic Surgery Group gives us a crash course in men's skincare (yes, you need SPF).

We also sit down with Memphis legend Al Kapone, whose story blends creativity, community and decades of influence. Interior designer Mark Lavender shows how masculine spaces can be bold, stylish, and full of character.

Father's Day gives us a chance to recognize the men who show up with strength and steadiness—whether they're coaching teams, building businesses or cheering from the sidelines. I think of my dad this Father's Day, of course, but I also think of my brother, brother-in-law and other family members who have recently become fathers. What a joy it is to watch new dads step into the role, ready to grow and show up for their children for years to come.

So to the fathers, mentors, brothers and friends—thank you. And to the men shaping Memphis with your work and your heart, this issue is for you.

Here's to a great summer!

June 2025

PUBLISHER

Christian Owen | christian.owen@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Kit Garrott | kit.garrott@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Jeannie Tabor | jeannie.tabor@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lindsey Tonkin | lindsey.tonkin@citylifestyle.com

PHOTO EDITOR

Bonner Morgan bonnermorganphotography@gmail.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Amy Golden | amy.golden@citylifestyle.com

MARKET AREA COORDINATOR

Malise Culpepper | malise.culpepper@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITERS

Margaret Ledbetter, Morgan Zanone

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jeff McMillen

COPY EDITOR

Jo-Ellen Sharpe

INTERNS

Mary Drew Beard, Marshall McGahey, Lucy Lamb, Helen Kastner

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Jeff Hulett

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Uday Sripathi

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

CTO Ajay Krishnan

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Learn

Proverbs 3:5-6

DON'T LET BACK PAIN TAKE YOU OFF COURSE

DR. JOHN J . E AGER

Fellowship T rained O rthopedic S pine S urgeon

Dr. John Eager knows what it's lik e to balanc e a busy life. As a dual-fellowship trained and board certified orthopedic spine surgeon at OrthoSouth, his days are dedicated to helping patients find relief from spine pain and regain the qua lity of life they love. Yet, even after a full day of performing minimally invasive spine su rgeries or treating complex spinopelvic conditions, you might also find him cheering from t he sidelines at Presbyterian Day School and Hutchison, supporting his two young children at their games, recitals, and school events.

Living right here in Memphis, Dr. Eager understands firsthand the importance of family, community, and being able to participate fully in life's special moments. It's this personal perspective that shapes his compassionate approach to patient care—focused not just on the advanced spine treatments he provides, but on returning patients to the everyday joys they value most.

When you're seeking an exceptional experience in spine care from someone who understands all the things that move you – both big and small – Dr. John Eager at OrthoSouth is ready to support your journey back to enjoying the activities, and people, you love.

"Botox for men does wonders! It just softens the lines for a more youthful appearance while still allowing for a natural result,” says Abby Hall.

SKINCARE FOR MEN

Products and Services Tailored Specifically to Men

ARTICLE BY JEANNIE TABOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNER MORGAN

Skincare is often seen as a priority for women, but it is equally important for men. Most males view regular exercise and a nutritious diet as essential for good health but often overlook the importance of healthy skin. According to Madelyn Scruggs, medical aesthetician at Plastic Surgery Group (PSG), “Men’s skin is slightly thicker and oiler than women’s, leading to unique challenges such as enlarged pores, acne and folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles caused by facial hair growth.” Additionally, men tend to use sunscreen less frequently, not considering that sun damage can occur during routine activities such as walking the dog or mowing the lawn.

Abby Hall, APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) at PSG, says, “Men’s skincare is just as important as women’s – skin is skin.” Regular cleansing helps remove dirt and oil, preventing breakouts and promoting a clear complexion. A moisturizer ensures that the skin stays hydrated, reducing the risk of dryness and irritation. Incorporating sunscreen into a daily routine can help prevent sun damage and promote youthful looking skin.

Men can benefit greatly from establishing and maintaining a tailored skincare routine.

“A healthy skincare routine can also significantly slow the aging process by enhancing the skin’s elasticity and firmness,” according to Madelyn. Retinol promotes the shedding of old skin cells, encourages the growth of new ones and accelerates skin cell turnover, improving the overall texture of the skin and reducing the risk of folliculitis.

In addition to products, services available at PSG, such as Botox, are also popular among male clients. Lasers are widely used to treat hyperpigmentation from sun damage, redness from underlying rosacea and scar removal for the face and body. Men are also using the BBL (BroadBand Light) laser to remove brown spots and acne scars, as well as micro-needling to help reduce fine lines and minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

Skincare is not just a woman’s domain – it is vital for men as well. Clear, healthy skin can boost confidence and slow the aging process, creating a positive impression in both personal and professional settings.

have a bank that adapts to my business.

Kenny, proudly independent for 3 years.

Our business thrives on person-to-person interaction. It’s just how we’ve always run things, and it’s important to have a bank that not only operates the same way, but is close enough to respond to our rapidly shifting market. Since we moved to i-bank, we not only get the personal service we require, but we also have the peace of mind that they’re just down the street.

Start your story with i-bank today, and ﬁnd out why being proudly independent is the most rewarding way to bank.

i-bankonline.com

Kenny Jabbour Jabbour Cotton Company

EMILY DAFFERNER

Emily Dafferner, CFP®, CDFA®, is a financial advisor at Reliant with more than 17 years of experience in insurance and financial services. She’s passionate about empowering clients—especially women— through education and strategic guidance, helping them build financial confidence and lasting freedom. Outside the office, Emily enjoys exploring Memphis with friends and family, especially in the spring, and cheering on her favorite teams—through all their ups and downs: the Tennessee Vols, Memphis Grizzlies, and St. Louis Cardinals.

The brothers behind ECCO, Tonica and Libro - John Paul and Mario Gagliano - continue and expand their mother’s legacy with heart, hustle and heritage.

Food First, Family Always

ARTICLE BY KIT GARROTT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNER MORGAN

In the heart of Memphis’ Evergreen Historic District, ECCO on Overton Park is more than just an Italian restaurant—it’s a family legacy built on resilience, hospitality and heart. Since opening in 2014, ECCO has embodied the warmth of a home kitchen, serving handmade Italian cuisine with a deep-rooted sense of community. Today, under the stewardship of John Paul Gagliano with his brother Mario at the helm in the kitchen, that legacy is expanding— not just in square footage, but in spirit.

The Gagliano family’s journey into the Memphis food scene began long before ECCO, when matriarch Sabine Bachmann opened Fratelli’s downtown in 2002. “I was in the fourth or fifth grade,” John Paul recalls. “Sometimes we’d skip school to help my mom in the restaurant. Watching her open a business and raise three boys taught me grit.”

That grit became the foundation for ECCO, a name that comes from an Italian phrase meaning “the place to be,” a favorite saying of their mother Sabine. And it has proven true. Over the past decade, ECCO has become a cornerstone of the neighborhood, where familiar faces fill the dining room, and many regulars are on a first-name basis with the staff.

With the restaurant’s popularity growing and a surge in private event bookings, ECCO is embracing a new chapter. LP3 Builders helped revamp the space adjacent to ECCO to create ample room to host private events while allowing the restaurant’s routine operations to continue. “It started with one rehearsal dinner, and it hasn’t stopped since,” John Paul says. “But even as we host more events, we keep the focus on food and hospitality—it’s not just a venue; it’s still a restaurant.”

CONTINUED >

“Italian culture is different. It’s about simplicity, care and quality—that’s what

we try to bring back with

us from a visit. We want to continue to build a community-focused

culture through our restaurants.”

This philosophy extends beyond the food and into the kitchen culture. The Gagliano brothers are reshaping what it means to work in hospitality. “I don’t like the mentality that restaurant work isn’t a serious job,” John Paul says. “We want to make this a career, not just a job.” To support that goal, ECCO and its sister restaurants now provide health insurance, IRA contributions and—perhaps most notably—a fully funded trip to Italy for exceptional team members.

“Twice a year, we choose someone who’s gone above and beyond,” John Paul explains. “They get to spend a week

in Italy. It’s a way to reward their hard work and give them an experience that ties back to why we do this.” The first recipient was Mary Connor, ECCO’s beverage director, who returned from Italy inspired and more connected than ever to the restaurant’s roots.

John Paul himself first visited Spoleto, Italy, in 2023, which helped him to understand his mother’s vision more deeply. “I used to think Italy meant pasta, pizza and architecture,” he says. “But the culture is different. It’s about simplicity, care and quality—that’s what we try to bring back with us.”

“I’d say 60% of our customers are regulars at all three restaurants. It’s like one big family.” - John

Paul Gagliano

That ethos extends across their restaurant group, which includes Libro in Laurelwood (opened in 2017) and Tonica, a Spanish-influenced concept launched in 2022. The three restaurants share not only staff—many work at multiple locations—but also a loyal customer base. “I’d say 60% of our customers are regulars at all three restaurants,” says John Paul. “It’s like one big family.”

Running a family business means collaboration at every level—from his younger brother Mario managing the kitchens at ECCO and Tonica, to incorporating staff input into major decisions, John Paul emphasizes shared ownership of ideas. “I might be the owner, but I don’t know everything,” he says. “I want to hear opinions, bounce ideas around. Once you stop learning, you stop growing.”

While John Paul oversees the big picture, Mario provides essential balance in the kitchen, bringing consistency, calm and sharp culinary focus to day-to-day operations. After studying culinary arts in Italy, Mario returned to Memphis with a revitalized appreciation for the technical and creative aspects of cooking. His attention to detail ensures that each dish reflects the quality and heart the family is known for -- down to the microgreens sitting perfectly on every dish.

Their attention to detail helped the Gaglianos navigate the challenges of the pandemic, which shuttered many beloved Memphis eateries. “So many places have closed since 2020,” John Paul says. “It made me really think about their path and what we could learn from it. Growth is good—but only if you’re ready for it.”

For ECCO, growth is coming naturally, driven by purpose, not pressure. The restaurant is hiring to keep up with demand, especially for larger parties and outdoor seating. However, the team remains focused on preserving what makes ECCO special: heartfelt service, high-quality food and drinks, and a sense of home.

Ultimately, John Paul sees his role less as a restaurateur and more as a motivator. “I might not say I love the restaurant business—it’s tough—but I love giving people opportunity,” he says. “Watching things grow, watching people grow, gets me up every day.”

While Midtown may change, one thing remains the same: ECCO is, and will always be, “the place to be.”

River City Events

River City Events are customized for our magazine partners.

From client gatherings to staff outings, we are always developing the next cross-promotional idea with our wonderful partners. Some of the signature events we have co-hosted:

• The River City Seasonal Edit, ideal for retail businesses

• River City Signature Cocktail Parties, perfect for open houses or milestone celebrations

• River City ArtWalks, showcasing the latest in local exhibits, paired with a wine tasting and light bites

Florals by LeFLEUR. Photo by Sarah Voigt

MEMPHIS RAP-LEGEND Al Kapone

STILL CHANGING THE GAME

ARTICLE BY JEFF HULETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY UDAY SRIPATHI

Memphis-born rapper, writer and producer Al Kapone has been dropping beats and rhymes since the early 1990s. In fact, he was prolific long before his date with mainstream destiny, thanks to his song “Whoop That Trick” in Craig Brewer’s film Hustle & Flow. As a multi-platinum songwriter and president of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences Memphis Chapter, he’s busier than ever and inspiring the next generation of Memphis artists to throw their hats in the entertainment ring. I recently had a chance to sit down with the humble and grateful artist to discuss all make and manner of staying in the game a half century into life.

RCL: FOR THOSE WHO DON’T KNOW YOUR HISTORY, TELL US ABOUT THE EARLY DAYS OF YOUR CAREER.

Al: My career started before the 90s when I was in the 6th grade at Lauderdale Elementary, now Ida B. Wells Elementary. From the dancing to the DJing to the fashion and graffiti, that’s where I fell in love with hip hop and was engulfed by the culture overall. I spent a short time in Atlanta during my career, but the gravitation pull of Memphis brought me back. Memphis is home.

That’s when I decided to compile all of my blues sounding songs, add a couple new songs and make a compilation. That was my original idea but I found myself producing more new blues rap songs, also learning more blues history. I then decided that the blues rap soul fusion is the direction I want to go in.

RCL: WHERE DID “OH, BOY” AND “AL KAPEEZY” COME FROM?

Al: Oh Boy and Al Kapeezy are phrases from my homie E40 in the Bay area. He’s a major artist. I was working with him in the late 90s and 2000s. That was the Bay area lingo, and it just stuck. What really made me embrace it was the way it helped reframe my image. Al Kapone is clearly connected to the iconic gangster, a name I chose as a teenager, not realizing my music longevity would last for decades, while Al Kapeezy Oh Boy keeps it fun and more accessible.

I spent a short time in Atlanta during my career, but the gravitational pull of Memphis brought me back.

— Al Kapone

RCL: WHILE YOU ARE KNOWN FOR RAP, HAVEN’T YOU WORKED IN SOUL AND BLUES MUSIC AS WELL?

Al: I’ve always been a fan of music in general and wanted to emulate different styles through hip hop. The Blues were always a part of my sound even on my first album. Take the song “It Ain’t Over” and you can hear the blues. It really hit me around 2016.

RCL: WHAT ARE YOU UP TO THESE DAYS?

Al: Right now, I am mainly engulfed in rap blues fusion. Through that I’ve created a curriculum – an education initiative – and have spoken at several colleges so far, including the University of Memphis and Berklee College in Boston. The whole idea is educating students on the correlation between rap and the blues and rap. I mentor to students at local schools, as well, on everything from life, industry and navigating the hard times. It’s from my point of view, and we discuss pitfalls, peer pressure, wanting to fit in and be cool. Those things that can pull you in negative direction. If you have a focus and goal, it can help you stay on the right track.

RCL: DESCRIBE SOME OF YOUR RECENT MUSICAL COLLABORATIONS.

Al: I’m working with North Mississippi All Stars, Eric Gales and up and coming artist Singa B. It’s all about reinventing yourself whatever stage you are in life.

RCL: ARE THERE ANY NEW PARTNERSHIPS OR SPONSORSHIPS YOU’D LIKE TO MENTION?

Al: I’m working with the Memphis & Shelby County Film and TV Commission bringing awareness to the music community about how the Film Commission can assist with music videos in some of the same ways they work with movies and commercials that are filmed in Memphis. Also increasing filmmakers’ awareness of Memphis music when they ask for local music for their films. I’ve recently been asked by The Tennessee Entertainment Commission to help increase awareness of Memphis music for commercial use on behalf of the Memphis & Shelby County Film and TV Commission, as well as helping to add Memphis music businesses to the Tennessee Entertainment directory to increase statewide visibility for clients looking for services in Tennessee. It’s been a great working relationship with Linn Sitler, Film Commissioner; Sharon O’Guin, Deputy Film Commissioner; and Robert King, Social Media Manager.

RCL: HOW DO YOU SEPARATE YOUR PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL LIFE?

Al: It’s way easier now that my kids are grown and doing well. I just have to make sure my lady is happy. I have 100 percent learned that it is important to nurture your relationship, to maintain it just like you nurture your business and your craft. Give ample attention to what’s most important in your life.

RCL: WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE MEMPHIS ARTISTS RIGHT NOW? HISTORICALLY?

Al: I’m really enjoying Big Boogie’s live shows and of course GloRilla. I’m also enjoying Singa B’s passionate and authentic approach to the blues. He’d make Robert Johnson proud. Lastly, I’m digging TallT Gray, an artist playing punk rock. Legacy wise, it’s got to be Al Green, The Bar-Kays and Wendi Moten.

RCL: WHAT IS MEMPHIS’S BIGGEST CHALLENGE RIGHT NOW? OPPORTUNITY?

Memphis is home.

Social media age with youngsters is all instant gratification. Our biggest opportunity is in our entertainment industry here in Memphis. It’s respected worldwide, and our legacy is unmatched as it dates back generations across all genres. I hope we can really take advantage of it in a way that makes it more prosperous and makes Memphians stay here. We also need more education for young and older artists to help them better understand the business.

— Al Kapone

Al: Biggest challenge is changing the mind sets of the younger generation – not all of them – but some who want instant gratification. We have to encourage them to work – and value life. It doesn’t happen overnight. Fast money normally ends as fast and way more dramatically.

RCL: ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO ADD?

Al: Shout out to all of our sports teams – The Grizzlies, Memphis Tigers, 901 FC when we had them, Redbirds and even Memphis Wrestling. They have all embraced my music and song “Whoop that Trick” which is all about the spirit of winning.

REFINED SPACES

Mark Lavender of M. Lavender Interiors

ARTICLE BY AMY BIRDSONG GOLDEN

Christopher Bradley Photography

“A lot of designers say they treat each space as a blank canvas,” designer and architect Mark Lavender remarks, offering a gentle shake of his head. “But I disagree — no space is truly blank. There are always elements: doorways, views to other rooms, windows opening to the outside. All of these inform how we approach layout and design.”

For Mark, design is always rooted in context, noting views and natural surroundings can become a foundation of a design concept. “It’s not about imposing a style; it’s about responding to the space and making it come alive,” he adds.

CONTINUED >

Cynthia Lynn Photography

Janet Mesic Mackey Photography

Cynthia Lynn Photography

One such space came with an unconventional request. “I worked on a house with a 70s vibe—exposed brick, dark beams and an indoor pool. My very elegant client asked to add a trapeze above the water. She’d recently begun lessons and wanted to practice at home, jumping straight into the pool. Next thing you know, we are bringing in a rigging company, designing a system to lower and raise the trapeze with the push of a button. But my concern was safety. So, we devised a raft system: she’d sit on a raft, pulled out by her house manager, then step onto the trapeze.”

With more than 35 years of architecture and design expertise, Mark brings skill and vision to every project. Born in Western Kentucky, Mark studied architecture at University of Kentucky in Lexington.

“Most of the projects we designed in college were institutional buildings with an occasional residential project. I guess I suppressed my love of residential architecture during this period and gravitated towards those institutional buildings,” Mark recalls.

Post college, he moved to Chicago to work with architecture firms VOA Associates and HOK, managing large-scale institutional projects globally. He also had an opportunity to work for a family in their personal development office. “They were well known philanthropists who developed residential and cultural buildings in Chicago’s depressed neighborhoods, frequently renovating historic and culturally significant properties. They also began purchasing historic residences and converting them to luxurious bed

Janet Mesic Mackey Photography

Does too much color and pattern make a design too busy, too distracting?

“When done correctly, it results in a beautiful, harmonious environment. Not everything has to be the star. With the right balance, color and pattern can serve as the perfect supporting cast.”

and breakfasts – a source of revenue that allowed these beautiful old homes to be meticulously restored and given a new life,” he explains. “This work reawakened my love of residential architecture and interior design. As I became more involved, I developed the usual “I can do a better job than the people we hired” mentality… the curse of an architect, “ he laughs. “I convinced them to let me take on the interior designer role for a personal home they were renovating in the North Shore suburb of Winnetka.” Soon after, M. Lavender Interiors was born.

Mark found his way to Memphis after the pandemic and some particularly cold Chicago winters. “My partner and I are both from the South and always talked about moving back. Upon visiting

Janet Mesic Mackey Photography

Memphis, we fell in love with the neighborhoods and especially the people,” he says.

While most of his projects tend to be full home renovations, Mark still finds time for commercial projects. His team is currently working on the renovation and restoration of a landmark residential high rise in a large American city.

“ We have a very refined process that we utilize on every project, no matter the size, that facilitates success. We believe our methodical approach provides assurances to the client. Our process and experience allow us to remain calm under pressure and provide leadership to the project team should issues arise. I strongly believe my architectural skills and education enhance our designs by incorporating items that work spatially and volumetrically,” says Mark.

Mark describes his overall aesthetic as British Empire. His designs marry the whimsey and tradition of English design with the exotic nature of Asian and Latin American design. Mark expertly plans for scale and proportion in design elements and architectural details. His spaces are layered with carefully curated hues, textures and patterns.

Yet, he often encounters a common concern: does too much color and pattern make a design too busy, too distracting? “When done correctly, it results in

Christopher Bradley Photography

Cynthia Lynn Photography

“Color enhances not just a space, but the people within it,” he explains. “It can improve complexion, uplift outlook and influence mood—these are vital ingredients in a home that truly feels alive.”

For Mark, the key lies in moderation and thoughtful pairing. “Nothing is more jarring to me than walking into a home that’s all offwhite with one or two bright-colored furniture pieces,” he says with a hint of a smile. “I often wonder, what’s the reasoning behind such a dominant, strong color in a space that’s otherwise neutral? I believe using complementary hues creates a more cohesive and sophisticated look—inviting the eye to explore rather than be overwhelmed.”

He emphasizes that the goal is for spaces to look collected rather than brand new and shiny. “We want our projects to feel like they’ve developed over time,” he says. “A room should reflect the homeowner’s lifestyle and personality—something that’s been curated and layered, not assembled overnight.”

Mark often describes the feeling they aim for as “like a well-loved sweater”—offering comfort and happiness after a long day of work or play. “Clients should love their spaces and find a sense of refuge in them,” he shares. “That’s really the heart of good design—creating environments that wrap you in familiarity and joy.”

MODERN LIVES IN MEMPHIS

mobile: 646-898-6901 office: 901-682-1868

margaret@modernmemphishomes.com

modernmemphishomes a beautiful, harmonious environment,” he affirms. “Not everything has to be the star With the right balance, color and pattern can serve as the perfect supporting cast.”

Christopher Bradley Photography

SUMMER,

Seasonal tips from Memphis stylist Colin Chapman for work, weekends, and nights out

STYLED CASUAL

Local stylist Colin Chapman shares effortlessly cool summer looks and styling tips— from office-ready fabrics to casual sets and cowboy flair.

For casual dressing during spring and summer, I go with the “I don’t want to think about what I’m going to put on” mindset. The weather in Memphis is beautiful; with so many festivals and activities happening—I just want to be outside.

ARTICLE BY KIT GARROTT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BONNER MORGAN

WORKWEAR

The number one tip that I share with my community when it comes to workwear is to respect your job and respect your environment. For most people, workwear in the spring/summer months is similar to fall/winter—men are expected to wear button-downs, sweaters, slacks. However, what you can do during the warmer months is change up your fabric types. Put away winter wool and heavy Oxford shirts and introduce more linens and breathable cotton! Take time to explore different types of shoes this time of year! Go for tans, greys and blues— fun but still appropriate in the workplace.

I love a matching set. You can find them from all your favorite brands, and the sets are easy to separate and style the shirt and pants/shorts in different ways.

Shoes from Joseph Men.

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DATE NIGHT

The dress code for a spring/summer date night is basically the same as in cooler months. Black is the perfect default—cocktails, a movie or a dinner at Amelia Gene’s.

I’m into the western/cowboy aesthetic—maybe a blazer with a flare pant and boot combo. We can get away with it in the South—where else can you unironically wear a cowboy hat?

Custom hat from Rancher Hat Bar.

"I like to have more fun with accessories." Broach from Wren’s Nest.

LEGACY OF FLAVOR: Buster’s Butcher Shop

Brothers bring fresh meats, good vibes and local flavor to Memphis with Buster’s Butcher shop.

ARTICLE BY MORGAN ZANONE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY UDAY SRIPATHI

Photo provided

Lifelong Memphians, brothers Morgan and Josh Hammond grew up in a retail-oriented family. Their grandfather, Buster, landed in the liquor business through a stroke of luck. In 1954, Buster and his partner, Tom Kirk, decided to dissolve their partnership in Hamkirk’s Grocery Store on Bellevue Avenue. They set a price for the business, flipped a coin and Buster lost. He left the grocery and opened Buster’s Liquors next door, operating there until 1968, during the height of the STAX era. When Buster’s son Rommy took over the business, he moved the liquor store to its current location at Dillard Square Shopping Center. Under Rommy’s management, the store became a beloved establishment and grew from 1600 square feet to 16,000 square feet. Since then, Buster’s grandsons Morgan and Josh have incorporated their own ideas into the family business.

For years, Morgan and Josh had been ruminating on expanding their business to include food items. They felt that a specialty food store would complement the liquor store nicely. Morgan says they “were looking to open something that would appeal to epicurean and food-oriented shoppers.” A retail space became available a few doors down, and the center’s management group thought the Hammonds’ butcher shop idea would make the perfect addition. Once this opportunity arose, things began to move quickly.

Josh spoke with a few other peers in the business, leading to the decision that it was time to give it a shot. Josh quips, “We jumped in with both feet!” Looking back on it, Josh laughs that he and Morgan did not follow a traditional business plan. He admits the smartest decision was to hire Brad McCarley as the head butcher and manager. Brad, also raised in Memphis, has an impressive resume with experience at Porcellino’s Craft Butcher and Salt and Soy restaurants. He also founded the Butcher program at Curb Market in Crosstown Concourse, later opening City Block Salumeria, a wholesale operation selling mostly to restaurants. Finally, he opened a small retail outlet in Puck Food Hall, which operated until Covid. CONTINUED >

Brad brings a wealth of restaurant experience and a grand vision of what Buster’s Butcher could provide for Memphis and the neighborhood. Morgan, Josh and Brad wanted to create their own brand and style. During the store’s renovation, they worked on their food plan, deciding what type and how many meats to sell. They also traveled to nearby cities to visit stores with a similar vision. Brad felt it important to source their meats locally as much as possible. Most of their meats are purchased from Homeplace Pastures from Como, Mississippi, and Creekstone Farms out of Kansas. Their menu expanded to include house-made sausages from Brad’s personal recipes, cheeses, prepared sides and sandwiches. All are made in the store. Buster’s Butcher attempts to attract all levels of food lovers, from the hard-core gourmand to the beginner dinner party host. The staff includes experienced butchers and chefs, who can provide expert advice on the differences in cuts of meat that work within the customer’s budget. Josh says, “Most people come into Buster’s Butcher and then make a plan for their meal once they see what’s in the shop.” It’s a place where people can hang out and chat about food while they shop. Brad says, “We’ve curated a vibe in the shop. It’s an experience that hits the senses – from the decor in the shop to the smell of what’s cooking. The music is good in there. I’ve always said that the music in a restaurant (or store, in this case) drives the circus. It makes you feel a certain energy.”

BUSTER’S BUTCHER

We’ve curated a vibe in the shop. It’s an experience that hits the senses –from the decor in the shop to the smell of what’s cooking. The music is good in there. I’ve always said that the music in a restaurant (or store, in this case) drives the circus. It makes you feel a certain energy. - Brad McCarley

“Most people come into Buster’s Butcher and then make a plan for their meal once they see what’s in the shop. ”

The shop includes a variety of dry goods, some unusual international products and some familiar, basic staples. Brad buys products that he would want in his home or restaurant kitchen. The tricky part is finding some of these products in retail sizes. He likes having a rare anchovy paste next to the Duke’s mayonnaise on the shelf.

Buster’s Butcher boasts of a true farm-to-table experience, providing fresh and high-quality products. They carry an array of cuts of beef and receive whole hogs that their butchers cut every Thursday.

They dry-age their meats in the shop, and they also produce a house-made charcuterie program. The staff provides services such as trimming, vacuum-sealing and freezing meat to make it easy to travel with food. And of course, if they don’t stock exactly what you’re looking for, the butchers can special order anything you need. Brad likes to joke that he “can get you anything you need, even camel. But seriously, I can get you camel meat!”

Buster’s Butcher is a shop for all types, but especially foodies. They brag it’s a place where men like to shop, too. On some weekends, you might find Brad out front, grilling house-made sausages in what he calls a “Best Wurst Pop-up.” Or you might find him cooking smash burgers or tacos to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. No matter the day of the week, you’ll always find their experienced staff ready to help you find exactly what you need.

ARTICLE BY AMY BIRDSONG GOLDEN

Father’s Day Outings

DATES FOR DADS

Wiseacre Brewery

A yardy for your Dad without messing up his lawn? Head downtown to Wiseacre Brewery with the family for Pizza, Hops & Pops on Father’s Day. Little Bettie Pizza + snacks and a couple of cold SkyDogs await.

Andrew Michael

For dads who like surprises, make reservations for the June 18th What the Food dinner at Andrew Michael, a special dining experience where chefs keep details of the menu a secret.

Outlaw Music Festival

Willie Nelson’s Outlaw Music Festival comes to Memphis’ Radians Amphitheater June 27th. Presented by Mempho, a stellar hometown group that brings Disney-like efficiency and magic–it’s a lineup you and Dad will enjoy.

The Redbirds

A homemade card with tickets to Red Sox Weekend at The Redbirds –winning. The home team will honor Memphis’ former Negro League team June 19 – 21. KidsZone on Friday and fireworks on Saturday = homerun!

Billy Hardwick’s All Star Lanes

Grab your friends and combine forces for an outing. It’s hard to strike out at Billy Hardwick’s All Star Lanes, where friendly competition and good times make for a memorable day with the Dads.