Memphis will always be famous for barbecue and blues, but its food scene has grown far beyond ribs and dive bars.
Over the last several years, new restaurants have brought refined Southern cooking, global flavors, and creative cocktail programs to neighborhoods all over the city.
These five relatively new or newly in‑demand spots show just how exciting Memphis dining has become.
1. Catherine & Mary’s
Catherine & Mary’s pairs the soulful comfort of Italian grandmothers’ cooking with the boldness of modern Southern cuisine.
Located downtown, the space feels energetic but thoughtful, with exposed brick, high ceilings, and an open kitchen anchoring the room.
The menu leans heavily into house‑made pastas, seasonal vegetables, and rich, slow‑cooked meats.
You might find dishes like ricotta‑filled agnolotti, braised pork with creamy polenta, or inventive riffs on classic Italian‑American favorites. Ingredients from Southern farms and producers show up everywhere—in sauces, sides, and specials.
A strong wine list and cocktail program match the food’s intensity, with lots of Italian bottles, creative spritzes, and well‑built classics. It’s a great option for a long, shared meal with friends or a special date night downtown.
2. The Gray Canary
The Gray Canary, from the same team behind several of Memphis’s most acclaimed spots, brings an open‑hearth, live‑fire mentality to the edge of the Mississippi River.
The restaurant’s industrial‑chic look—big windows, brick, and a dramatic bar—matches its adventurous menu.
Expect a mix of raw bar offerings, wood‑roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and shareable small plates built around smoke, char, and flame.
The menu often changes with the seasons and availability, but you can usually count on oysters, creative crudos, and inventive veggie dishes that get equal billing with proteins.
Cocktails are a major draw, with a menu that highlights classic techniques and house‑made ingredients. The combination of river views, polished food, and a lively bar scene makes it a standout for both locals and visitors.
3. Bishop
Located inside the Central Station Hotel in the South Main district, Bishop is a French‑inspired brasserie with a distinctly Memphis twist.
The room is light‑filled and stylish, with tiled floors, well‑spaced tables, and a buzz that makes it feel like the living room of the neighborhood.
The menu riffs on French comfort food—steak frites, moules, pâtés, and bistro salads—while weaving in Southern ingredients and techniques.
You might find catfish alongside classic bistro fare, or local greens and grains turning up in side dishes and specials. Brunch brings its own set of hits, from rich egg dishes to indulgent pastries.
The drinks list includes French wines, local beers, and cocktails that lean refreshing and food‑friendly. It’s equally suited to a quick glass of wine and a snack or a full multi‑course dinner.
4. Lucky Cat Ramen
In Midtown, Lucky Cat Ramen has helped push Memphis’s noodle game to the next level. The space is casual and compact, with a friendly, slightly punk energy that fits the steaming bowls and clattering chopsticks.
The focus here is, of course, ramen—deep, slow‑simmered broths; springy noodles; and carefully layered toppings like braised pork, soft eggs, and fresh aromatics.
There are usually several broth styles on offer, including options that work well for vegetarians. Small plates and snacks—like buns, pickles, and crispy bites—round out the menu.
A short list of beers, sake, and simple cocktails makes it easy to settle in for a full meal or a quick bowl.
It’s the kind of spot where the food does the talking and the atmosphere keeps you coming back.
5. Sugar Grits
Sugar Grits, in downtown Memphis, offers a modern take on Southern comfort food in a relaxed, contemporary setting.
Bright, airy, and welcoming, it bridges the gap between brunch café and full‑on dinner destination.
The menu highlights staples like shrimp and grits, fried chicken, biscuits, and hearty breakfasts, but with thoughtful twists in seasoning, sourcing, and presentation.
Many dishes lean into rich, creamy, and crispy textures, balanced with fresh sides and lighter options.
Coffee, cocktails, and sweet treats—think pancakes, French toast, and desserts that nod to classic Southern flavors—keep things interesting from morning through evening.
It’s especially popular for weekend brunch, when the full range of its comfort‑leaning menu is on display.
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