Memphis diners combine Southern traditions with the city’s barbecue and music heritage.
These establishments have perfected their recipes through decades of serving musicians, riverboat workers, and locals seeking authentic Memphis flavors.
These five diners offer distinctive combinations of soul food and traditional breakfast fare, each with their own take on Memphis-style cooking.
Beale Street Morning
Operating since 1952, this diner specializes in musician-approved portions.
Their “Blues Breakfast” includes smoked pork belly, three eggs, and sweet potato pancakes with bourbon butter.
The kitchen produces scratch biscuits hourly.
Their signature “Memphis Hash” features pulled pork, barbecue sauce, and house-made hollandaise.
The grits come from a Mississippi mill and require three hours of slow cooking.
Riverside Cafe
Established in 1961, this spot focuses on river worker portions.
Their “Riverboat Special” combines country ham, red-eye gravy, and cornbread made in cast iron.
The kitchen prepares four varieties of house-smoked meats daily.
Their famous “Delta Skillet” includes barbecue bologna, peppers, and cheese grits.
The biscuit sandwiches feature house-made pimento cheese and bacon jam.
Sun Studio Stop
Founded in 1957, this diner emphasizes recording studio traditions.
Their “Producer’s Plate” features chicken fried steak with milk gravy and jalapeno cornbread.
The kitchen produces fresh preserves using local fruits.
Their signature “Million Dollar Quarter” includes four eggs, four meats, and four types of bread. The morning coffee service includes chicory blend options.
Cotton Row Kitchen
Operating since 1954, this establishment serves Memphis soul food.
Their “Cotton King Breakfast” includes hot water cornbread, smoked neck bones, and eggs any style.
The kitchen makes fresh sausage daily.
Their “Memphis Belle” features house-cured ham and sweet potato hash.
The seasonal jam selection includes Memphis BBQ-spiced varieties.
Graceland Morning
Established in 1963, this spot specializes in Elvis-inspired dishes.
Their “King’s Breakfast” features banana and peanut butter French toast, house-smoked bacon, and Memphis-style barbecue beans.
The kitchen produces fresh cinnamon rolls throughout service.
Their “Heartbreak Special” omelet combines three cheeses, pulled pork, and grilled peppers.
The signature coffee blend includes beans from local roasters.
Their house-made hot sauce combines Memphis BBQ flavors with breakfast classics.
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