We picked up a super saver fare on the web and are taking a spur of the moment trip to Memphis. Every city has a restaurant you must try (ie: Durgin Park in Boston, Threadgills in Austin, Pat's Steaks in Philadelphia, etc.). So my question is this: What is "the" restaurant you have to go to if you are ever in Memphis? Thanks for all or your replies.

Here are two radically different suggestions. The Rendezvous is a dry rib barbeque place in downtown Memphis that is wildly popular and has been around for years. As you'd imagine, it's very casual. Practically across the street is The Peabody Hotel (and if you've never seen the ducks walk to the fountain there, you MUST do that - it's a one of a kind experience) and the hotel has a French restaurant with a fabulous reputation. I'm drawing a blank on the name...think it's Chez Phillipe.

Rendevous is the place for ribs. And if you've never had Krispy Kreme donuts, there's a store a on the same street as Graceland where you can get them hot out of the fryers. They're standing in lines here in Chicago to get these donuts.

Oh god yes. There are few things that taste as good as a hot fresh Krispy Creme donut. Just get the regular glazed - but only if they're hot - you aren't tasting the real thing unless they're hot. Look for the red "Hot Donuts Now" sign to be illiminated. Don't miss this experience.

Interstate Barbecue is another highly-rated BBQ joint - written up as The Best in places like Life Mag, etc....very authentic (neighborhoody, un-dressy), and good.

Folks, the Rendevous is no more! Outta bizness.

The Rendevous is still alive!! It has never closed!!

Now that's a sad situation when the best a town has to offer is Krispy Kreme donuts!!!
And I've never been anywhere in a major city where anyone waits in line for these donuts. Sheesh, they're just donuts, not the nectar of the gods.
Get a grip!!!

If you want fine dining....(and I mean as fine as the best restaurants in NY City but without the attitude)...try Erling Jensen's...it's a small unobtrusive restaurant that does everything right...and has beautiful service and an extensive wine list. The chef-owner presides over the kitchen...it isnt cheap, but it is worth the money.

Mark
I have been visiting Memphis along time and never heard of your rec. Where is it located and what does it serve? I figured the Peabody rest. would be THE resterant. Is Justine's still there?

Hmmm...wonder if you recent posters noticed this original question was asked two years ago?

Sharpeyedsusie
Nope. Sorry. LOL
Blindasabatjay