Sure, Memphis is known for its historical sites, music, and zoo, but Bluff City is also pretty great at food. We’re totally not biased when we say our restaurants pack a punch, especially when it comes to morning meals. So we’ve rounded up some must-see breakfast joints around the 901 that will surely make mornings your new favorite part of the day.

Biscuits and Jams

Biscuits & Jams serves up breakfast classics with a Southern twist in their restaurant near Hotel Indigo in Downtown Memphis. With options like fluffy biscuits, jam-packed breakfast platters, and healthier fare like oatmeal bowls, there’s something for everyone. Their signature biscuits or delicious sandwiches and entrees are local favorites. If you’re in the mood for something savory, try their breakfast sandwiches or a hearty scramble. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up for the day, whether you’re looking for comfort food or lighter options.

Elwood’s Shack

Elwood’s Shack has two locations, Poplar and Summer, but both offer delicious breakfast and weekend brunches to keep your energy up in the morning. Their country breakfast options have Southern favorites, from fried chicken biscuits to acai bowls for a healthier choice. We recommend trying the BBQ burrito for breakfast or the BBQ benedict at brunch for some Memphis flavor.

EggXactly Breakfast and Deli

Try breakfast or brunch at EggXactly, a place with many tasty options from Tuesday through Sunday. You can build your own breakfast bowls for a custom experience or get some classic favorites, like a breakfast platter, pancakes, and omelet meals. They even have a special called EggXactly’s Beale Street, a Bourbon French toast topped with berries and syrup, with a side of eggs and your choice of meat.

Sunrise Memphis

You won’t have to wake up at sunrise in order to enjoy Sunrise in the 901. This breakfast and lunch spot offers all-day, everyday breakfast classics, including biscuit sandwiches, pancake stacks, omelets, and more. Their avocado toast takes things to the next level with its ciabatta bread and toppings of radishes, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and everything bagel seasoning, so be sure to try it for yourself during the next visit.

Eggs Up Grill

This breakfast spot is all about the eggs, and at Eggs Up Grill, you can get omelets, eggs benedict, steak and eggs, and so much more. This Memphis restaurant even adds eggs to your shrimp and grits bowls, avocado toast, and coastal crab cakes. Don’t miss out on their sweet menu options, like banana foster French toast or caramel apple pancakes, to give your morning a sugary boost.

Momma’s

For a homestyle breakfast that you won’t have to cook yourself, visit Momma’s in Memphis. This cozy spot offers up some classic Southern dishes, like biscuits and gravy, pancake stacks, and steak and eggs. Their breakfast menu is available daily between 7:00 to 11:00 AM, so stop by to grab some fresh-made food to start your day off right.

The Beauty Shop

You can dine at Priscilla Presley’s former curl-and-dye spot when you schedule brunch at The Beauty Shop. This one-of-a-kind eatery has brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, with a mix of sweet, savory, and spicy dishes that will have you coming back for more. Favorites include their Challah French toast, BBQ shrimp and grits, and their Big Boy Mimosa, but these stacked menus are worth checking out for yourself.

The Genre

If you’re not an early riser, then how about a weekend brunch at The Genre? From Saturday to Monday, you can indulge in classic brunch favorites like chicken and waffles, cheese grits, or a mimosa flight. They also have unique offerings, including lamb and grits, blackened salmon and grits, or fried catfish and grits for an elevated Southern brunch.

Rise

You can’t go wrong with some Southern biscuits, and Rise has them in heaps. This breakfast joint offers plenty of biscuit options, including chicken, gravy, and fried green tomatoes, which you can pair with delicious sides like cheese grits or tater tots. You can even try their donuts and sweet biscuits after grabbing a breakfast box.

City Silo Table + Pantry

If you’re looking for a healthier breakfast option that’s still hearty, then try City Silo in Saddle Creek. This offers an all-day breakfast made with clean, organic ingredients, including some plant-based options that won’t have you missing the real thing. You can grab some avocado toast and a delicious smoothie or try something new, like their Hippie Scramble egg bowl and some fresh fruit, for a wholesome meal to jumpstart your day.

Brother Junipers

Stop by this popular breakfast spot from Tuesday through Sunday for a wide array of Southern classics and twists on breakfast favorites. Start your morning with some cinnamon roll pancakes to get the best of both worlds or their San Diegan Open Face Omelet, a customer favorite that brings the heat and flavor to your day. It’s no wonder this restaurant has remained a staple for over 50 years.

The post 10 Spots for Breakfast in Memphis That’ll Start Your Day Off Right appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Remember, this list is by no means exhaustive! With more than 100 dining options in the Downtown core alone, there’s no way we could capture every single delicious spot that the city has to offer–this is just to get you started! For a complete list, click here to head to the Downtown Memphis Commission’s site!

Fine Dining

Indulge in the best of Memphis’ upscale dining scene with these fine dining spots in Downtown. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself, these restaurants offer exquisite cuisine, top-notch service, and an unforgettable ambiance.

Itta Bena
Catherine and Mary’s
Amelia Gene
Chez Philippe
Flight

Bars + Nightlife

Looking for a night out on the town? Downtown Memphis boasts a vibrant nightlife with trendy bars, lively music venues, and more. Check out some of our favorite spots to sip, dance, and soak in the energy of the city.

Beck and Call
BarWare
Silky O’ Sullivan’s
Pretty Taco
Eight & Sand

Great Patios

Enjoy the perfect blend of delicious food and fresh air on some of Memphis’ best patios. Whether you’re people-watching or just basking in the sun, these outdoor dining spots offer a relaxing atmosphere and excellent views.

Slider Inn
The Lobbyist
Loflin Yard
Los Comales
Wiseacre Taproom

Casual Bites

For those laid-back days when you’re craving something tasty, Downtown Memphis has plenty of casual options. From sandwiches and burgers to smoothies and pizza, these eateries are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

Groovy Gratitude
By the Brewery
Aldo’s
Kooky Canuck
WingMan

Date Night/Girl’s Night Out

Planning a romantic evening or a fun night with the girls? Downtown Memphis has you covered. These stylish and cozy restaurants and lounges are the perfect backdrop for memorable moments, whether it’s with your significant other or your best friends.

SOB Downtown
The Majestic Grille
Sage
Curfew
Birdie’s

International

Take your tastebuds on a global journey without leaving Downtown Memphis! Explore our top picks for international cuisine, where you can enjoy everything from Italian pastas to Latin cuisine, all right in the heart of the city.

Good Fortune Co.
The Brass Door
Maciel’s
Cocozza American Italian
Curry and Jerk

Coffee Shops

Need a caffeine boost or a cozy spot to unwind? Downtown Memphis is home to a variety of coffee shops, each with its own unique charm. Grab a cup of locally roasted coffee, meet up with friends, or settle in with a good book at these neighborhood favorites.

Comeback Coffee
Memphis Chess Club
Talk Shop at the Caption by Hyatt
Bluff City Coffee
Arrive Hotel

Breakfast/Brunch

Start your day right with the best breakfast and brunch spots in Downtown Memphis. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Southern breakfast or a creative brunch dish, these local spots are sure to satisfy.

Kinfolk
The Genre
Biscuits and Jams
Cafe Keough
Hive Bagel and Deli

BBQ

Memphis is world-famous for its BBQ, and Downtown is home to some of the city’s finest spots to enjoy slow-smoked, mouth-watering goodness. Whether you prefer ribs, pulled pork, or something in between, these BBQ joints deliver the smoky flavors that Memphis is known for.

Cozy Corner
The Rendezvous
Central BBQ
Arnold’s BBQ
Smurfey’s Smokehouse

Iconic Spots

No visit to Downtown Memphis is complete without dining at some of the city’s most iconic spots. From legendary restaurants to famous food joints, these must-visit places offer a true taste of Memphis’ rich culinary history and culture.

Earnestine and Hazel’s
The Arcade
Huey’s
Gus’ Fried Chicken
Alcenia’s

Breweries and Distilleries

Downtown Memphis is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries offering unique, flavorful brews that showcase the creativity and passion of Memphis brewers. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a laid-back spot to enjoy a cold one, these breweries provide the perfect setting to relax, unwind, and taste some of Memphis’ homegrown beer.

Ghost River
Grind City
Soul and Spirits
Old Dominick Distillery
Memphis Made

The post Guide to Dining in Downtown Memphis appeared first on We Are Memphis.

The Hen House

Looking for a cozy wine bar perfect for a girls’ night or brunch? The Hen House was made with those vibes in mind, with eats perfect for sharing with the table and one-of-a-kind drinks you’ll love. 

The Beauty Shop Restaurant

No list of unique Memphis restaurants would be complete without mentioning The Beauty Shop, a former curl-and-dye spot that Priscilla Presley herself used to frequent. Now, it’s a ’50s-style eatery that still has hair dryers at select tables, serving up delicious foods from brunch to dinner.

Global Café

Global Café is an international food hall with a menu as eclectic and unique as its chefs who cook recipes from their home countries. Try authentic dishes from all over the world right here in Memphis at an affordable price. 

Tiger and Peacock

Come for the rooftop views, but stay for the delicious food at Tiger and Peacock on Overton Square. This spot has dramatic and “wild” decor that’s definitely Instagram-worthy, and their drink and snack menus will keep the party going until closing time.

The Farmer

For a taste of the South with an upscale spin, try The Farmer at Railgarten. This restaurant’s eco-friendly focus and sleek decor elevate any dining experience. You’ve really got to try their deviled eggs for yourself!

Memphis Whistle

Between the unique cocktails and moody aesthetic, Memphis Whistle is one place that needs to be experienced. They even offer vegan bites on their menu and a rotation of seasonal desserts. This may soon become your favorite spot.

Tamboli’s Pasta & Pizza

Tamboli’s is a downtown eatery with authentic Italian fare, and the restaurant itself offers beautiful views of Madison with its large windows. Between their brilliant twists on classic foods and unique decor, this is one spot you’ll want to visit.

Bishop – Central Station Hotel

You don’t need to stay at the Central Station Hotel to enjoy Bishop, although you likely won’t want to leave once you step inside. This upscale French-inspired eatery serves breakfast through dinner and drinks to go with every meal, with modern French vibes in its decor to match the menu. 

You might also be interested in: Best Brunch Spots in Memphis! 

The post A List of Unique Eats in Memphis You’re Gonna Love appeared first on We Are Memphis.

The Beauty Shop 

If you’re in Midtown, you’re not going to want to miss out on one of the best brunch spots in Memphis. Not only do they have a killer cocktail program, but they have some of the most unique (and delicious) brunch menus in the city. You can stick with a classic mimosa or spice it up with pineapple + vanilla bean-infused vodka. As for the food? The chilaquiles and watermelon + wings are two dishes you have to taste!

SOB 

Heading south of Beale St.? You should try, well, South of Beale! This restaurant is a long time local favorite and their brunch is outstanding. You can grab a mimosa (and you should), but if you’re looking to try out the espresso martini trend this is a great place to do it! Thinking about the food, there are tons of great menu items–shoutout to the duck fried rice. But you should give their loco moco a try! It’s their take on the Hawaiian classic and is the perfect addition to any brunch adventure!

The Liquor Store

If you’re in the mood for brunch every single day of the week, this would be one of the best brunch spots in Memphis for you! Their menu has all the classic breakfast items you could want plus some seriously delicious burgers, sandwiches, and more. If you’re into pork, try out the Cuban sandwich or add their Cuban pork as your meat selection for any of the breakfast plates!

Staks Pancakes

Wake up early for this one–Stacks Pancakes gets busy early! With good reason too–the food is delicious! In need for a family-friendly place? This is it. With tons of locations across the Mid-South, there’s probably a spot that’s close by. Our recommendations: start with the sausage skewers, grab their Stak of the month, and build your own omelet!

You might also be interested in: Best Mexican Food in Memphis! 

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