There’s so much more to Memphis, Tennessee than Graceland. Memphis may be known for its soulful musical heritage and its southern hospitality, but when it comes to what makes the city truly stand out, it’s all about the food. Barbecue is at the heart of Memphis cuisine, but that’s only the beginning of what visitors can experience when they make the trip down south. If you’re looking to get a taste of Memphis, here are 5 black-owned restaurants you won’t want to miss.
Interstate Barbecue
One of the barbecue capitals of the world, Memphis BBQ is known for being dry-rubbed smoked pork that can be served without sauce (dry) or with a tomato-vinegar sauce (wet). Go to award-winning Interstate Barbecue if you want your BBQ done right and crave flavors that are one-of-a-kind.
Alcenia’s Restaurant
You can taste the love in the dishes from this legendary restaurant, which has soul food classics like fried chicken, meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, baked fish and pecan pie. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself wanting to eat here more than once during your trip.
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Two Vegan Sistas
Clean eating is possible in a city known for barbecue and soul food, and Two Vegan Sistas is the place to go if you want to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal with zero guilt. After a few days of BBQ, you’ll want to treat your body to fresh veggies, fruits and grains.
Blue Nile
Blue Nile is how Memphis does Ethiopian, with the restaurant serving up delicious salmon, lamb and chicken tibs, vegetarian dishes and combo platters if you can’t decide what to order.
Southern Hands Restaurant
This soul food restaurant has three locations in the Memphis-area, and here you’ll find some of the best black eye peas, candied yams, baked chicken and catfish in the city.