Last updated: 2025-05-06
Memphis dining isn’t just about barbecue and blues. The city’s culinary landscape boasts sophisticated restaurants that transform local ingredients into extraordinary gastronomic experiences, showcasing the refined side of Mid-South cuisine.
From historic downtown venues to eclectic neighborhood spots, Memphis restaurants offer intimate dining environments where exceptional flavors and Southern hospitality converge, creating memorable meals that elevate the city’s culinary reputation.
Discover Memphis’ most elegant dining destinations now!
Featured Fine Dining Spots in New South Memphis
- Chez Philippe at The Peabody (Memphis)
- Amelia Gene's (Memphis)
- Mahogany River Terrace (Memphis)
- The Beauty Shop (Memphis)
- Char Restaurant (Memphis)
- McEwen's on Monroe (Memphis)
- South of Beale (Memphis)
- Esco Memphis Restaurant & Tapas (Memphis)
Amelia Gene's (Memphis)
What to Expect
Rotating artisan cheese cart with tableside service
Description
Chef Nate Henssler's contemporary Memphis restaurant offers a globally inspired culinary journey through artfully designed dishes. The intimate dining space features a showstopping cheese cart, carefully curated wine selections, and classic cocktails that complement the sophisticated menu. Tableside service and globally influenced cuisine create an elevated dining experience rooted in Memphis' fine dining scene.
Where: Memphis | More Info: Amelia Gene's
Char Restaurant (Memphis)
What to Expect
Nightly live piano performances in bar area
Description
Located in Memphis, Char offers an elegant steakhouse experience featuring candlelit dining rooms and sophisticated ambiance. The restaurant presents premium aged steaks alongside an extensive wine selection, complemented by nightly live piano performances in the bar area. Guests can enjoy private dining spaces and catering services for special events.
Where: Memphis | More Info: Char Restaurant
Chez Philippe at The Peabody (Memphis)
What to Expect
Forbes Four-Star restaurant with seasonal tasting menus
Description
Nestled in The Peabody Memphis, this Forbes Four-Star restaurant offers an elegant dining experience featuring modern American cuisine with French presentation. Chef Keith Clinton crafts seasonal tasting menus with locally sourced ingredients, presenting sophisticated four and seven-course dining options in an intimate, refined setting.
Where: Memphis | More Info: Chez Philippe at The Peabody
Esco Memphis Restaurant & Tapas (Memphis)
What to Expect
Sophisticated tapas-style dining with Memphis-inspired culinary approach
Description
Upscale tapas restaurant nestled in downtown Memphis, offering an intimate dining experience with a sophisticated atmosphere. The venue features a curated menu of small plates designed for sharing, complemented by an extensive cocktail program and stylish interior that blends modern design with local Memphis flair.
Where: Memphis | More Info: Esco Memphis Restaurant & Tapas
Mahogany River Terrace (Memphis)
What to Expect
Riverfront Southern cuisine with Creole-inspired menu
Description
Nestled along Memphis' riverfront, this upscale Southern restaurant blends sophisticated Creole and Southern cuisine in an elegant dining space. Mahogany River Terrace offers a refined menu featuring tender fried chicken, savory jambalaya, and regional specialties served against a stunning river view backdrop. Live music enhances the dining experience during select evening and weekend hours.
Where: Memphis | More Info: Mahogany River Terrace
McEwen's on Monroe (Memphis)
What to Expect
Southern-inspired gourmet cuisine in downtown Memphis
Description
McEwen's on Monroe offers an elegant downtown Memphis dining experience featuring Southern-inspired cuisine with refined culinary techniques. The restaurant showcases sophisticated dishes like Masa Crusted Grouper with Crawfish & Crab Etouffee, complemented by an intimate dining room that captures the city's sophisticated restaurant scene.
Where: Memphis | More Info: McEwen's on Monroe
South of Beale (Memphis)
What to Expect
Adventurous multi-location restaurant with bold flavor profiles
Description
South of Beale offers an adventurous dining experience across three Memphis locations, featuring bold and unique flavor combinations in a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant delivers creative cuisine with an emphasis on innovative dishes that challenge traditional culinary expectations, complemented by an extensive selection of wines, cocktails, and craft beers.
Where: Memphis | More Info: South of Beale
The Beauty Shop (Memphis)
What to Expect
1950s beauty salon transformed into avant-garde restaurant
Description
Housed in a vintage 1950s beauty salon once frequented by Priscilla Presley, this Memphis restaurant transforms retro hair salon aesthetics into an artful dining experience. Vintage hair dryers serve as unique seating, with original mint green wash basins repurposed as bar elements and terrazzo floors preserved. Chef Karen Carrier crafts inventive dishes that blend Southern and international flavors, like Lucky Pot-Ramen with Ribeye in Saffron Turmeric Broth.
Where: Memphis | More Info: The Beauty Shop
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