Road Trip!!!!!
Story by Bethaney Wallace
From time to time, the team there at 30afoodandwine.com will be bringing our followers some of our favorite culinary stops in our favorite cities across America. This past month, we made the road trip to Memphis, Tennessee. Check out just a few of the stops we were able to squeeze in!
The city of Memphis has long-since been known for its culinary ways. The barbeque, the seafood, the fresh takes on old favorites – chefs of all specialties have made home to their flavor creations within this vibrant city. Virtually every kind of food can be found, and in any number of variations – even the ones you’re not brave enough to try. (Though, when recommended, you definitely should.) The trick, however, is to find hidden favorites. The stops locals frequent, and where chefs are out to impress, not draw in eaters from their chain’s reputation. Not only do these unique fares make for some interesting (and delicious) eats, they provide an entirely different view of the city.
Which is exactly why we compiled some of our Memphis favorites. The reviews don’t lie – nor do the locals. The next time you’re in town, be sure to check out these tasty eateries … in fact, they might be worth a special trip all on their own.
The Pancake Shop
4838 Summer Ave.
Memphis, TN
901-767-0206
Come for the Southern-style breakfast, stay for the friendliness and smile-toting service. In fact, the Pancake Shop – a one-and-only location – prides itself on their ability to provide quality service without charging high prices. (Breakfast combos generally weigh in at less than $10, with a sizable tip.)
Test out their foolproof pancakes, add a side of specialty-prepared country ham, and because it is a Southern breakfast, no order is complete without grits. Have them done up with cheese or meats (locals add shrimp or fruit), or pair them with salt and pepper in true minimalist fare. But no matter how you stack it, whether going a la carte or picking a generous breakfast combo, you’re set to leave full and happy. Any time of day, and all under budget. Just remember to bring cash, staying true to form, The Pancake Shop doesn’t accept cards or checks.
South of Beale
361 S. Main Street
Memphis, TN
901-526-0388
SouthofBeale.com
For the foodie types – or anyone else who loves flavor paired with a fun atmosphere – look no further than South of Beale. Known as Memphis’s “first gastropub,” an establishment that combines quality dishes with a pub-like setting, they’re an establishment out to push the boundaries of flavor … while pairing it with a nice glass of wine.
Visitors can order a number of mouthwatering appetizers, including fried avocados, duck fried rice, and fried chicken and waffle sliders. Then for dinner, enjoy their fresh take on long-time faves, such as steaks, hashes, and seafood. But don’t forget to pair your meal with a house wine, or if prefer something fruitier, order a house cocktail, such as a champagne margarita or the rye walnut.
And if you still need some convincing as to just how delicious their food is – ask Guy Fieri; South of Beale (and their house dishes) were featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, and have been serving up happy customers ever since.
Three Little Pigs
5145 Quince Rd.
Memphis, TN
901-685-7094
ThreeLittleBigsBar-b-q.com
What Memphis trip is complete without some good, authentic barbeque? Stop by the Three Little Pigs for one of the best pulled pork sandwiches known to man … at least that’s what the locals tell us. Each ounce of meat is smoked for more than 20 hours (20 hours!) to seal in the maximum amount of flavor. Order it in sandwich form – regular or jumbo – and have it served with coleslaw and a molasses and tomato-based barbeque sauce. (Spicy more your style? Regulars assure it’s just as good with a splash of hot sauce.)
A great stop for lunch (or breakfast; they open at 8 am), Three Little Pigs is also known for its catering-style carry-out. Which means it’s great for a meal in (we all need them sometimes, even when traveling), or for feeding a crowd. Additional best sellers include BBQ nachos and their home style banana pudding.
Open since the 80s, Three Little Pigs continues to serve tasty meals seven days a week. Stop by for a delicious, budget-friendly way to experience Memphis barbeque at its best.
Stay tuned for additional Memphis favorites and remember to eat like a local! Want to stay up to date on the latest Memphis Culinary news? Visit www.memphisfoodandwine.com
