Memphis Eats: Five-Star Restaurants You Can’t Miss

Memphis has got some of the most mouthwatering and top-rated 5-star fine dining restaurants in the Mid-South. Whether you’re looking for that perfect spot for a romantic date night or aiming to impress your family with a fab dining experience, this guide has got you covered. 

Location: 255 S. Front St

Downtown

Nestled in Downtown, this spot’s got fine wines, killer cocktails, and a freakin’ cheese cart! From the tall windows behind the bar to the chic open kitchen, this place is a visual delight. We’re talking about the incredible foie gras macarons and the mouthwatering Wagyu steak tartare. Oh, and the bucatini with saffron? Absolute heaven!

Location: 712 W Brookhaven Cir

East Memphis

Italian cuisine meets our Southern roots. Born and bred Memphians, Chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman are the brains behind this place, bringing innovative Italian flavors blended with our local traditions. These dudes have culinary creds from Charleston, South Carolina, and Italy itself! They’ve got restaurants that have rocked the foodie world, earning nods from James Beard, GQ, Southern Living, and even The New York Times!

Location: 6065 Poplar Ave

East Memphis

The epitome of 5-star fine dining and steakhouse experience is right down Poplar Avenue. Succulent steaks, fresh seafood, and a vibe that’s pure Memphis class. From the moment you step in, you’re treated like royalty, and their steaks? They’re legendary. 

Location: 272 S. Main St, Suite 105-A

Downtown

The 5-star spot where the magic of Tuscan and Sicilian cooking meets Downtown Memphis. Chefs Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman are behind this gem, dishing out flavors that’ll make you feel right at home while hitting you with something new. They’re all about that comforting feel of Grandma’s cooking but with a dash of excitement. Located at the corner of S. Main Street and MLK Dr., this place’s got that Memphis heart and global flavor.

Location: 149 Union Ave

Downtown

Interested in afternoon tea with the girls? Hit up Chez Phillipe at the Peabody and try their divine tea and pastries. Can’t make it to afternoon tea? Try a four or seven course tasting menu blending American and French cuisines. 

Location: 415 Great View Drive East

Cordova

A 5-star restaurant in Memphis that serves up seafood that’ll make your taste buds dance! With fresh catches (def not straight from the Mississippi), this spot brings the ocean to the heart of the city. Dive into flavors that scream Memphis while you soak in the lake views of Shelby Farms Park.

Location: 1044 South Yates

East Memphis

Chef Erling Jensen, born and bred in Denmark, has been cooking up a storm since he was a teenager and now has accolades like ‘Best Chef in Memphis’. Looking for a quick bite? Check out their bar. We recommend the EJ burger with their delicious truffle parm fries.

Location: 39 S. Main St

Downtown

Step into Flight, smack dab in downtown Memphis. Downstairs, it’s alive with chatter and energy, perfect for mingling with friends or sealing the deal. Need a quick bite? The bar’s your spot. Head upstairs for a more intimate vibe, cozy booths, and Main Street views – ideal for business or a romantic evening. 

Location: 551 S. Mendenhall

East Memphis

Make your way to Folk’s Folly, a slice of Memphis history since ’77. Their steaks are to die for. Iykyk.

Location: 4550 Poplar Ave

East Memphis

Memphis-legend Kelly English chefs it up at Restaurant Iris, Memphis’ take on classic Creole dining. They’ve got it all: lunch, dinner, brunch, cocktails, and even a killer to-go menu for those nights you wanna dine in your PJs. After kickin’ it in Midtown for fifteen years, they’ve moved to East Memphis. They’ve got space for your special events and private parties, too!

A cocktail glass with a frothy drink inside, featuring text written on the foam, under warm lighting.
Photo: @ittabena.memphis

Location: 145 Beale St

Downtown

Above BB King’s Blues Club and named after BB King’s birthplace, this 5-star joint embodies everything we love about our Southern roots. From juicy Center Cut Filet Mignon to the finger-licking-good Shrimp and Grits, their menu’s a flavor adventure! And the best part? No fancy jackets needed here – just come as you are and soak up that unbeatable Southern hospitality.

Location: 7724 Poplar Pike

Germantown

Named one of the Commerical Appeal’s best restaurants in 2023, Limelight has literally taken the limelight. Their menu is ever-changing with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Plus, they even host private events!

Location: 50 Harbor Town Square

Downtown/Harbor Town

Paulette’s is a 5-star gem that’s been dishing out beloved recipes and chef’s creations for 40 years. It’s the go-to spot for everything from family gatherings to romantic dinners and even weddings! Tender steaks, fresh fish, Sunday Brunch, and those hot popovers with strawberry butter that’ll make your taste buds sing. Paulette’s boasts an ambiance that’s unparalleled, set against the stunning river backdrop in Harbor Town.

Location: 2125 Madison Ave

Midtown

Porch and Parlor, right in Overton Square, is the perfect spot for 5-star delights. Start with their bacon flight and scrumptious cocktails and don’t forget to end the night with some decadent dessert.

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Location: 6085 Poplar Ave

East Memphis

Your go-to 5-star restaurant in Memphis for seasonal goodness and a lineup of 52 wines by the glass. Seasons52 is all about fresh eats, oak-fired grilling, and brick oven roasting.

Location: 2285 S. Germantown Rd

Germantown

Nestled by the old Southern Railway’s historic Germantown Depot, this 5-star restaurant’s all about Southern vibes and top-notch flavors. From fresh seafood to prime steaks to brunch, their chef-inspired menu’s a winner. 

Location: 7515 Poplar Ave, Suite 101

Germantown

If you’re craving a taste of American goodness, you gotta hit up Stoney River in Germantown. Whether it’s a luscious Lobster Roll, juicy Steak & Eggs, or that Southern comfort of Chicken Biscuit, they’ve got your cravings covered. Dive into their $6 Brunch Cocktails. Plus, they’re all about gatherings, so bring your crew or plan that private dinner.

 

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