Black-Owned Businesses in Memphis: Restaurants, History & Culture Guide
Memphis, Tennessee, is a city with a soul as deep as the Mississippi River. Known for its rich history, legendary music scene, and undeniable Southern charm, Memphis offers a unique blend of old and new that resonates in every corner of the city. But beyond the famous landmarks and cultural icons, there’s a thriving community of Black-owned businesses that are helping to shape the city’s future while honoring its storied past. From mouthwatering barbecue joints and innovative eateries to cultural institutions that preserve and celebrate the African American experience, these businesses are the heartbeat of Memphis. If you’re visiting Memphis, this guide is a great way to get started planning an itinerary that will fill your belly and your soul. We will be taking you on a journey that showcases the culture and color of “Bluff City”
Payne’s BBQ is a Memphis legend. This bbq has been satisfying everyone from locals to tourists for decades. Founded by Horton and Gerris Payne in 1972 this restaurant remains family owned. You know you’re in for serious ‘que when you enter the building which has all the hallmarks of the best barbecue shacks that you will find across the South. They are known for the pulled pork sandwich, but don’t sleep on the bbq bologna for some down home eating you have to experience to understand.
Opened by Andrew and Rose Pollard in 1983, A&R BBQ is another icon of Memphis barbecue, restaurants, and soul. It started as a single take out and now there are two full service locations to serve you. Kick back and enjoy soulful barbecue with tender smoked meats like the rib plate and classic sides like their famous baked beans. A&R BBQ is a great place to stop on your visit to get a true taste of the city.
Memphis isn’t just about the smoked meats. It was also home to Stax Records, one of the foundational pieces of Soul music with an immeasurable impact on music history. The Stax Museum is located on the original site of the legendary recording studio and celebrates artists like Otis Redding, Isaac Hayes and more. You will experience interactive exhibits, rare recordings, and memorabilia that tell the story of a monumental recording legacy.
The Lorraine Motel is an infamous building. The site of the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. is now home to the National Civil Rights Museum. The building is now home to a comprehensive exploration of the Civil Rights Movement from its early days to today where it examines equality and justice. Take in the exhibits there and get a new appreciation for History and the movement.
Biscuits and Jams is one of the places to be if you want to experience Southern Hospitality and breakfast and brunch fare. It all starts with the buttermilk biscuits but it definitely doesnt end there. You can experience a full range of Southern delicacies like fried green tomatoes, chicken and waffles, and shrimp and grits.
The Four Way is a Memphis Institution. This restaurant has been around since 1946, serving up delicious Soul Food Classics and a heaping of hospitality. In the 1960’s it was one of the first places in Memphis where you could find Black and White patrons enjoying the same space. It has hosted luminaries of the civil rights movement like the Rev. Jessie Jackson Jr., Al Sharpton, and Martin Luther King. Current owner Patrice Bates Thompson is carrying on the legacy of warmth, fellowship and good food. Stop in and order from a menu featuring neck bones, salmon croquettes, liver and onions, and more that will make your grandmother proud. Next door to the restaurant is also their community center, which allows them to carry on the legacy even more.
Dr. Ernest Withers was a world renowned photographer who documented the civil rights movement and more iconic artists, figures, and events. His collection features over 1.8 million photos, over half of which are of everyday life. His photographs are noted for showcasing the humanity of his subjects, whether they be famous figures, athletes, musicians or just the regular person who caught his eye. The museum is 7,000 square feet and features rotating exhibits, the Withers Collection itself, and rental space. The museum uses its location and space to work with the community on everything from history to financial literacy to the college application process.
From tragedy, sometimes we get something that not only gives purpose, but becomes an institution for others as well. That is how Alcenia’s was born. After the loss of her son William in a motorcycle accident, BJ Chester-Tamayo found a way to honor him when she opened a restaurant using her mother’s recipes. The restaurant is known for its family atmosphere and award winning dishes. They have been featured on dozens of tv shows and online influencers just based on their reputation. It is a great place to settle down for a comforting meal like meatloaf, baked tilapia, black eyed peas, and more.
If you’re looking for a newer restaurant carrying on the cooking tradition of Memphis, Trap Fusion is here to serve you. Founded by Markeith W. McCoy and Chef JGardner, their menu blends the soul of Memphis with the heat and flavors of the caribbean. They were featured on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” showing off their jerk lamb chops and oxtails. They have three locations with their original menus and one all-vegan location, showing that flavor can also be plant based.
Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies is one of many local legendary spots in Memphis. They are known for melt in your mouth butter cookies that have a reputation as one of the must have treats when you are in the city. Founded by Maurice and Pamela Hill, it was named after Maurice’s mother and is a symbol of the local community. The secret family recipe has been passed down through generations, giving Memphis residents a feeling of comfort and nostalgia with every bite. The bakery also has other sweet treats to hit that spot for you too.
Smackers is a growing fast casual chain founded in Memphis by Chef kevin Jamerson and his wife Nikita. It began as a food truck called “Lick the Plate” in 2012 and the success of their salmon club propelled them forward. Smackers now has four locations around Memphis including one franchised store, showing they have growth potential and staying power. Go in and try their great menu and get a taste of the next big thing in fast casual eating.
Kitchen Laurel is a great breakfast or brunch option when you’re in Bluff City. This is a menu that is truly for those who want something that is familiar but will push them to try something. Four Pepper Bacon might not be too out there, but it isn’t something you will find everywhere. Neither is their breakfast fried rice or the cake roll which is a fun play on sushi as a southern breakfast dish. Get in early and enjoy this and more recipes from Chef and owner Kevin Sullivan at Kitchen Laurel.
Every city has its own independent coffee scene and Memphis is no different. Cxffeeblack is a community-oriented, multi-disciplinary, education-based coffee company. The company, founded in 2019 it is a social enterprise to create an equitable black future and create an all black owned supply chain, from growers to the shop itself. Their anti-gentrification coffee club is to show that coffee can be for and should include black people. This is not your everyday coffee shop, it is a cultural and community space for the real. Check it out and if you’re not close, you can order some coffee for yourself online.
The Hattiloo Theatre is the only freestanding repertory theatre in five states. This theater will have 19 plays this season, from african american classics to modern and fun kid’s fare. They also have summer camps and educational classes for those trying to get into theater and learn more about it. They also offer free programs and performances throughout Memphis, sharing art with the community.
The dirty soda trend is growing with major chains racing across the country to get the most ground. In Memphis, you can get yours locally at Poppz Drinks and Sweets. There are so many drink combinations that you can get already on their menu, and then there is the customization which can take you to the next level. Hit the drive thru and check out the great beverages from Poppz Drinks and Sweets.
