Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Memphis

The menu at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken offers tasty sides, such as fried green tomatoes and fried dill pickle spears along with crispy, juicy fried chicken. Travelers who desire a hearty, home-cooked type meal can grab a snack pack or family meal to go. The snack packs include eight to 20 pieces of the fried chicken and white bread. The meals include baked beans, slaw and bread. You can choose spicy or mild fried chicken or even fried catfish. Homemade biscuits, country-style sides, such as onion rings and fried okra, and a variety of desserts ensure that you won't leave hungry from this family-friendly restaurant.

An Eastern Orthodox Priest runs this unassuming restaurant. It is often difficult to find a table, but worth the wait. Try the huge, fluffy homemade rolls, both wheat and white. The omelets can be ordered with a variety of toppings including spinach, mushrooms and feta cheese. On the side, try the sauteed potatoes, which can be topped with black beans, Swiss cheese, green onions or salsa. The decor is simple with red and white checkered tablecloths and few pictures. There are two dining rooms or you may eat at the bar. Classical music makes this a pleasant place to start the day.

The Majestic Grille has a long history in Memphis. A century ago, it was known as the Majestic No. 1, a theater that played silent films. It has since been renovated and turned into a restaurant, but it still plays old movies on a projection screen so you can enjoy a show while you dine. The restaurant is involved in the arts, and inside, you'll find local artists' work featured. With a full bar, this restaurant is the complete package. Come for brunch and enjoy mimosas and bloody Mary's. On the menu, you'll find flatbread pizzas, burgers, steaks, and pasta dishes.

Do not let the unlikely location put you off - the specialties here are worth it. This place is a Memphis tradition, and you may have to fight the regulars for a table or a seat at the counter. The barbecued Cornish game hens are the specialty here, perfectly cooked and succulent. Other choices include ribs and pork sandwiches. Cozy Corner is indeed cozy, but also casual. Everything is served on paper plates—the plastic cutlery can make eating a bit of a struggle, but fingers are allowed.

This brewpub features several beers made on site, including Boscos Flaming Stone Beer, concocted using traditional German brewing techniques that give the beer its unique caramel character. Also on tap are India Pale Ale, Scottish Ale and various seasonal offerings. The specialty pizzas, such as the vegetarian, barbecue chicken and New York and Santa Fe varieties, are the best bets. Pastas, sandwiches, salads and grill items are also available. The spinach and artichoke dip and the battered and fried calamari appetizers are especially good. The pub atmosphere offers casual dining plus an outdoor patio. On the weekend, try the Sunday jazz brunch.