The 7 Best Soul Food Spots In Memphis

Home-cooked, meat-and-three, Southern cookin’ – whatever you want to call it, Memphis is a natural at serving traditional Southern classics made with love. We’ve rounded up the best places for soul food in Memphis… Those firm favourites that feed the belly and the soul.

The 7 Best Soul Food Spots In Memphis, How do these rankings work?

1. The Four Way 

The Four Way has been dishing up scrumptious soul food to locals and visitors since 1946. Famous for being one of Dr. Martin Luther King’s favourite spots to grab a bite to eat where he would often dine with other Civil Rights leaders. Now, it’s still a firm favourite for good vibes and great eats.

2. Miss Girlee’s

Drop by this family-owned restaurant to get your soul food fill. With a massive menu filled with oxtails and smothered chicken to a huge list of “vegetables” such as potatoes with cheese and macaroni, there are more than enough of these delicious dishes to go around.

3. Southern Hands

With six locations, this Memphis staple knows a few things about cooking some outstanding soul food. Every fresh, handmade meal feels like digging into family dinner at grandma’s house. From their many hearty entrees to their tons of Southern sides, there’s definitely something for everyone here.

4. Alcenia’s

Alcenia’s is a soul food restaurant in the Pinch District of downtown, and the owner, B.J., is just as famous for her friendly welcome as she is her comfort food. There are two things you should know before you head into Alecina’s: the food is decadent and delicious, and it’s going to be a leisurely lunch. Everything is made-to-order so come hungry and be prepared to relax!

5. 99 Cent Soul Food Express

At this restaurant, you don’t have to break the bank to dig into some scrumptious soul food. Chef Will Nash puts his heart and soul into serving his grandmother’s recipes and shares these dishes with a smile. Pull up a chair in this open, welcoming space and enjoy some of Downtown’s highest quality soul food at some of the lowest prices around.

6. LUNCHBOXeats

LUNCHBOXeats has a menu full of soul. It’s a funky place: mains come on compartmentalised trays, and the menu is written on a chalkboard. You can order by taking your “quiz,” and hand it off to your server to get “graded.”

Some of the most popular choices are the Homeroom Chicken and Waffles, Mac&Cheese, and the Lemonade of the Day.

7. Miss Polly’s Soul City Café

You won’t have to look far for delicious soul food before or after a night on the world-famous Beale Street. If the delicious smells from Miss Polly’s don’t already grab your attention, the chicken and waffles sure will. Whether you’re looking for a bountiful breakfast or savory late-night snack, these dishes are sure to satisfy your tastebuds.