Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Memphis | Upscale Soul Food Food

28 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Memphis | Upscale Soul Food Food

• Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken — American · rated 5/5: The air hums with the irresistible aroma of cayenne and hot oil in this unpretentious sanctuary of Southern soul food, where every piece of chicken arrives with a shatteringly crisp, deep-amber crust and a signature spicy kick. This legendary experience is rounded out by a spread of classic, cooling sides like creamy mac and cheese and tangy coleslaw, all best enjoyed with a condensation-beaded glass of sweet tea or a cold beer in a lively, no-frills atmosphere.
• Ali Baba — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: Ali Baba transports diners to a bustling Mediterranean marketplace where the air is thick with the tantalizing scent of charred meats and exotic spices. Guests can round out their flavorful journey with the satisfying crunch of golden fries and a chilled beverage, creating a complete and comforting meal that captures the vibrant heart of authentic street food.
• Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q — American · rated 3/5: The air at Jim 'N Nick's is thick with the irresistible scent of slow-smoked meats and the warm, welcoming hum of genuine Southern hospitality. Guests gather over overflowing platters of crispy, golden-fried onion rings and indulgent brisket mac & cheese bombs that celebrate the soulful, bold flavors of the pit. Whether diving into a mountain of loaded nachos or savoring a classic Southern trio, every bite captures the heart of a true barbecue tradition where comfort and craft collide.
• Alcenia's — American: Stepping into this vibrant, candy-colored sanctuary feels like a warm embrace, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of slow-simmered greens and golden fried chicken. Every plate overflows with soul-satisfying Southern staples and house-made preserves, served with a genuine hospitality that transforms a simple meal into a heartfelt homecoming.
• Waldo's Chicken & Beer — American: The air hums with the convivial energy of a neighborhood gathering spot, where the savory perfume of golden-fried chicken and slow-roasted rotisserie birds draws guests into a space defined by warmth and effortless charm. Crispy, hand-breaded cuts and tender, fire-roasted poultry take center stage alongside an array of scratch-made Southern sides, all perfectly paired with a rotating selection of ice-cold craft brews. Whether settling into a booth for a hearty family feast or grabbing a pint at the bar, diners find a soulful celebration of simple comforts and genuine hospitality.
• The Lookout at the Pyramid — American: Perched at the pinnacle of the iconic glass pyramid, this soaring destination offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests dine around a massive circular aquarium in a rustic-chic space where the drama of the architecture meets the warmth of Southern hospitality, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for sunset cocktails or a refined meal high above the clouds.
• Soul Fish Cafe — Seafood: This lively neighborhood gem hums with a welcoming energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible aroma of golden-fried catfish and savory Southern spices. Diners gather around casual tables to enjoy baskets of crispy seafood and pillowy hushpuppies, all served in a bright, unpretentious atmosphere that captures the soulful heart of a classic community fish fry. It is a place where the comfort of home-style cooking meets a vibrant, upbeat spirit, making every meal feel like a shared celebration of honest flavors.
• Plant Based Heat — American: This vibrant sanctuary of soul food pulses with energy, where the air is heavy with the smoky, savory aroma of plant-based proteins sizzling on the grill. Every plate is a masterclass in bold, spice-forward indulgence, offering a hearty and transformative dining experience that proves plant-based eating can be both deeply satisfying and unapologetically flavorful. Guests are welcomed into a lively, communal atmosphere where the comfort of traditional favorites meets a modern, health-conscious spirit.
• Porch & Parlor — Steakhouse: Stepping into this refined sanctuary feels like entering a grand Southern estate, where plush velvet seating and warm amber light set the stage for an evening of sophisticated indulgence. The air carries the enticing aroma of prime cuts searing to perfection and the subtle sweetness of craft bourbon, bridging the gap between traditional steakhouse grandeur and soulful hospitality. Every detail, from the meticulously plated dishes to the polished, historic atmosphere, invites guests to linger over a meal that celebrates both culinary artistry and the timeless charm of the parlor.
• Imagine Vegan Cafe — American: This quirky, bohemian retreat welcomes guests with a vibrant spirit and the nostalgic aroma of hearty, plant-based comfort food simmering in the kitchen. Every plate is a soulful reimagining of classic favorites, where crispy textures and bold, savory sauces come together to create a dining experience that feels both indulgent and deeply compassionate.
• Soul Fish Cafe — Seafood: This vibrant neighborhood hub hums with a soulful energy, where the mouthwatering aroma of golden-fried catfish and seasoned hushpuppies drifts through a bright, unpretentious dining room. Crispy, cornmeal-crusted fillets give way to tender, flaky centers, perfectly paired with comforting sides like buttery grits and savory greens that taste of long-simmered tradition. It is a place that celebrates the heart of Southern comfort, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere where every meal feels like a homecoming.
• Huey's — American: This spirited neighborhood landmark pulses with the soulful rhythm of local blues, where walls etched with history and ceilings famously bristling with toothpicks create a uniquely lived-in, eclectic charm. The air carries the irresistible aroma of flame-grilled burgers and golden steak fries, served up in a high-energy space that invites guests to settle into a booth for a quintessential taste of unpretentious Southern comfort.
• The Green Beetle — American: Stepping into this historic South Main landmark feels like a warm embrace from old Memphis, where the glow of neon signs illuminates a wood-clad space rich with decades of stories and local charm. The air hums with the easy camaraderie of a neighborhood tavern as the kitchen turns out soulful Southern staples and sizzling burgers, creating a timeless atmosphere where every cold beer and hearty plate feels like a homecoming.
• Molly's La Casita — Mexican: This vibrant neighborhood landmark pulses with energy, drawing guests into a colorful, eclectic space where the scent of sizzling fajitas and the citrusy zing of legendary margaritas fill the air. Friends and families gather on the sun-drenched patio to share baskets of warm, crisp chips and zesty salsa, soaking in an atmosphere that feels like a perpetual festive celebration. It is a soulful retreat where time-honored Tex-Mex comforts are served with a side of Southern hospitality, creating a dining experience that is as spirited as it is satisfying.
• B.B. King's Blues Club — American: Neon lights and the soulful wail of a saxophone set the stage at this vibrant tribute to the blues, where the air stays thick with the irresistible scent of slow-smoked ribs and savory Southern comfort. Guests are swept into a rhythmic celebration of Memphis heritage, savoring fall-off-the-bone barbecue and golden fried catfish while world-class musicians turn every meal into a high-energy, foot-stomping performance.
• Central BBQ — American: The air hangs heavy with the intoxicating perfume of hickory and pecan smoke, drawing diners into a lively space where the spirit of Memphis barbecue reigns supreme. Tender ribs dusted in a signature dry rub fall effortlessly from the bone, while piles of slow-smoked pork are served alongside classic sides that celebrate the soul of Southern comfort. It is a place where sticky fingers are a badge of honor and every bite captures the deep, charred essence of the pit.
• Krystal — American: The iconic red-and-white glow of this Southern staple beckons with the promise of nostalgic comfort, drawing guests into a bright, bustling space where the rhythm of the griddle never slows. Signature square sliders are steamed to pillowy perfection over a bed of savory onions, delivering a classic, craveable bite that has defined late-night dining and quick-service tradition for generations.
• Tops Bar-B-Q — American: The air around this legendary Memphis staple is thick with the intoxicating scent of hickory smoke, drawing diners into a nostalgic space where neon signs glow and the hum of a charcoal grill never fades. Tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder is pulled to perfection and piled high on soft buns, while thick, hand-patted burgers sizzle alongside signature sides that taste like a mid-century summer cookout. It is a place where time slows down over paper-lined baskets, offering a soulful, unpretentious bite of Southern history that feels as comforting as a home-cooked meal.
• The DogHouzz — American: The DogHouzz pulses with a playful, high-energy spirit where the nostalgic aroma of sizzling gourmet sausages and toasted brioche buns fills the air. Artisanal franks are elevated with bold, unexpected toppings that dance across the palate, transforming a humble street-food classic into a vibrant culinary celebration. Guests find a spirited haven where every bite offers a satisfying snap and a burst of inventive flavor, making it the ultimate destination for elevated comfort food.
• Pontotoc Lounge — American: This historic haunt wraps guests in an atmosphere of rustic elegance, where weathered brick walls and flickering candlelight set the stage for a sophisticated take on Southern soul. The kitchen turns out vibrant shared plates that celebrate deep regional flavors, perfectly paired with artisanal cocktails that capture the spirited, communal essence of a modern-day speakeasy.
• Exlines' Pizza — Italian: Step into a nostalgic neighborhood haunt where the comforting aroma of bubbling mozzarella and toasted crust invites families to gather around red-checkered tables. Golden-brown pizzas arrive piled high with savory toppings and sliced into signature squares, offering a satisfying crunch that captures the heart of classic, unpretentious comfort food.
• Germantown Commissary — American: Housed in a historic country store, this legendary barbecue haunt hums with a nostalgic charm where the air is thick with the sweet, savory perfume of hickory smoke. Diners gather around rustic tables for tender, slow-cooked ribs and pulled pork piled high on paper-lined trays, creating a quintessential Southern experience that ends perfectly with a slice of their signature decadent mud pie.
• Interstate Barbecue — American: The air at this legendary Memphis pit is thick with the intoxicating perfume of hickory smoke and slow-simmering sauce, drawing diners into a space where decades of tradition are etched into every weathered surface. Succulent slabs of ribs and tender pulled pork emerge from the pits with a deep, mahogany char, ready to be drenched in a signature tangy-sweet glaze that captures the soulful, unpretentious heart of Southern barbecue.
• Folk's Folly — Steakhouse: This legendary Memphis landmark envelops guests in an atmosphere of timeless sophistication, where dark wood paneling and the soft melodies of a live piano set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Sizzling prime steaks, aged to buttery perfection, arrive at white-clothed tables alongside decadent Southern sides, whether enjoyed in the lively main room or the intimate seclusion of a private "shanty." Every detail, from the polished service to the rich, savory aromas, evokes a sense of classic luxury and warm, genuine hospitality.
• Central BBQ — American: The air hums with high-energy conversation and the intoxicating aroma of hickory and pecan wood smoke wafting from the pits. Here, the art of Memphis barbecue is celebrated through tender, slow-cooked meats dusted in a signature dry rub that delivers a perfect balance of spice and soul. It is a vibrant, unpretentious gathering spot where every paper-lined tray promises a messy, flavor-packed journey into the heart of Southern tradition.
• Southern Social — American: Southern Social invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the charm of the Lowcountry meets modern sophistication, filled with the hum of lively conversation and the clinking of bourbon-infused cocktails. The kitchen breathes new life into soulful classics, serving up golden-fried comforts and slow-simmered flavors that evoke the nostalgia of a Sunday supper shared under the soft glow of warm Edison bulbs. It is a vibrant gathering place where gracious hospitality and elevated comfort food collide, creating an atmosphere that feels like a spirited homecoming.
• The Juicy Crab — Seafood: Stepping into this lively maritime-inspired haunt, guests are greeted by the intoxicating aroma of bold Cajun spices and melted garlic butter. Diners don plastic bibs to dive into steaming bags of succulent shellfish, sweet corn, and savory sausage, creating a tactile, communal feast that celebrates the messy joy of a traditional Southern seafood boil.
• Collierville Commissary — American: Housed in a historic general store where the walls are lined with nostalgic memorabilia, this beloved landmark envelops guests in the smoky, sweet aroma of authentic Memphis-style barbecue. Tender pulled pork and slow-cooked ribs take center stage, served alongside classic Southern sides that evoke the soulful warmth of a community gathering. The lively hum of conversation and the rustic charm of the wooden interior create a timeless atmosphere, best experienced with a tall glass of sweet tea and a generous helping of their legendary banana pudding.