Memphis, Tennessee, is a city renowned for its rich musical heritage, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering Southern cuisine. As a food enthusiast, you’re likely familiar with the popular Food Network show “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives,” hosted by the charismatic Guy Fieri. In this article, we’ll delve into the episodes of “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” that feature the best of Memphis’ culinary scene.
A Brief History of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives
Before we dive into the Memphis episodes, let’s take a brief look at the show’s history. “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” premiered in 2007 and has since become one of the Food Network’s most popular programs. The show’s concept is simple: Guy Fieri travels across the United States, visiting local eateries, diners, and restaurants that serve up delicious, often unconventional, dishes.
Memphis Episodes: A Culinary Journey
Memphis has been featured in several episodes of “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” Here are some of the most notable episodes:
Episode 1: “Southern Comfort” (Season 2, Episode 13)
In this episode, Guy Fieri visits the iconic Central BBQ, a Memphis institution since 1985. Central BBQ is known for its tender, slow-cooked ribs, and Guy can’t resist trying the famous “dry-rubbed” ribs. He also stops by Cozy Corner, a cozy (pun intended) restaurant serving up Southern comfort food, including their signature ” Cornish hens.”
Episode 2: “BBQ and More” (Season 5, Episode 14)
In this episode, Guy heads to Payne’s Bar-B-Q, a Memphis staple since 1972. Payne’s is famous for its BBQ sandwiches, and Guy tries the ” BBQ Bologna Sandwich,” a unique twist on traditional BBQ. He also visits The Four Way Restaurant, a historic eatery that’s been serving up Southern cuisine since 1946.
Episode 3: “Tennessee Tasty” (Season 10, Episode 13)
In this episode, Guy stops by McEwen’s On Monroe, a contemporary American bistro in the heart of Memphis. McEwen’s is known for its creative dishes, including the ” Fried Green Tomatoes,” which Guy declares “off the chain.” He also visits The Beauty Shop Restaurant, a unique eatery located in a former beauty parlor.
Must-Try Dishes in Memphis
While exploring the Memphis episodes of “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives,” we’ve identified some must-try dishes that showcase the city’s culinary diversity:
- Dry-Rubbed Ribs at Central BBQ: A Memphis classic, these tender ribs are slow-cooked to perfection and seasoned with a secret blend of spices.
- BBQ Bologna Sandwich at Payne’s Bar-B-Q: A unique twist on traditional BBQ, this sandwich features slow-cooked bologna, topped with coleslaw and pickles.
- Fried Green Tomatoes at McEwen’s On Monroe: A Southern classic, these crispy fried tomatoes are served with a side of remoulade sauce.
- Cornish Hens at Cozy Corner: These tender, slow-cooked hens are a staple of Southern comfort food.
Insider Tips for Visiting Memphis
If you’re planning a trip to Memphis, here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your culinary adventure:
Getting Around
Memphis is a relatively small city, and many of the restaurants featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” are within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer to drive, be aware that parking can be limited in some areas.
Best Time to Visit
Memphis is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Other Attractions
While you’re in Memphis, be sure to visit some of the city’s other famous attractions, including:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Graceland | The former home of Elvis Presley, now a museum showcasing the King’s life and career. |
| Beale Street | A historic street lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, known for its lively music scene. |
| National Civil Rights Museum | A museum dedicated to the history of the Civil Rights Movement, located at the site of the former Lorraine Motel. |
Conclusion
Memphis is a city that’s rich in history, music, and delicious Southern cuisine. The episodes of “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” that feature Memphis showcase the city’s culinary diversity and highlight some of the must-try dishes that make Memphis a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re a fan of BBQ, Southern comfort food, or contemporary American cuisine, Memphis has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your appetite, and get ready to discover the flavors of Memphis.
What is Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, and how is it related to Memphis?
Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives is a popular American food reality television series that premiered in 2007. The show features host Guy Fieri traveling across the United States in search of the best diners, drive-ins, and dives that serve unique and delicious food. In the context of Memphis, the show has featured several episodes that highlight the city’s rich culinary scene, showcasing its famous barbecue joints, soul food restaurants, and other local eateries.
Memphis, being a city with a rich musical and cultural heritage, offers a diverse range of culinary delights that are deeply rooted in its history and traditions. From traditional Southern comfort food to modern twists on classic dishes, Memphis has something to offer every food enthusiast. The episodes of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives that feature Memphis provide a glimpse into the city’s vibrant food scene and introduce viewers to some of its most iconic and beloved eateries.
What are some of the most popular Memphis eateries featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives?
Some of the most popular Memphis eateries featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives include Central BBQ, Cozy Corner, and Gus’s Fried Chicken. Central BBQ is a Memphis institution that has been serving up delicious barbecue since 1985. Cozy Corner is another popular barbecue joint that is known for its tender and flavorful ribs. Gus’s Fried Chicken is a Memphis staple that has been featured on the show multiple times, and is famous for its crispy and juicy fried chicken.
Other notable mentions include the Arcade Restaurant, which is one of the oldest restaurants in Memphis and has been serving up classic American comfort food since 1919. The Four Way Restaurant is another historic eatery that has been featured on the show, and is known for its soul food and Southern cuisine. These eateries, among others, have helped put Memphis on the culinary map and showcase the city’s rich food heritage.
What types of cuisine can I expect to find in Memphis?
Memphis is known for its rich culinary heritage, which reflects the city’s cultural and musical history. The city is famous for its barbecue, which is a staple of Southern cuisine. Memphis-style barbecue is known for its sweet and tangy sauces, as well as its slow-cooked meats that are tender and flavorful. In addition to barbecue, Memphis is also known for its soul food, which includes classic dishes such as fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese.
Memphis is also home to a thriving food scene that reflects the city’s cultural diversity. The city has a large African American population, and as a result, soul food and Southern cuisine are deeply ingrained in the city’s culinary culture. However, Memphis is also home to a variety of other cuisines, including Mexican, Italian, and Asian fusion. The city’s culinary scene is constantly evolving, and visitors can expect to find a wide range of delicious and unique dining options.
What is the best way to experience the flavors of Memphis?
The best way to experience the flavors of Memphis is to visit the city’s many restaurants, cafes, and eateries. Memphis is a city that is deeply rooted in its culinary heritage, and the best way to experience this is to try the local cuisine. Visitors can start by trying some of the city’s famous barbecue joints, such as Central BBQ or Cozy Corner. They can also try some of the city’s soul food restaurants, such as the Four Way Restaurant or Gus’s Fried Chicken.
In addition to trying the local cuisine, visitors can also experience the flavors of Memphis by attending one of the city’s many food festivals. The Memphis in May festival is a popular event that celebrates the city’s culinary heritage, and features a wide range of local restaurants and food vendors. Visitors can also take a food tour of the city, which will give them a behind-the-scenes look at Memphis’ culinary scene and introduce them to some of the city’s best eateries.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available in Memphis?
While Memphis is known for its barbecue and soul food, which are often meat-based, there are also many vegetarian and vegan options available in the city. Many of the city’s restaurants now offer vegetarian and vegan options, and some even have separate menus for these diets. Some popular vegetarian and vegan options in Memphis include the Beauty Shop Restaurant, which offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, and the Slider Inn, which has a separate vegan menu.
In addition to these options, Memphis is also home to a number of health food stores and co-ops that offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan products. The city’s many farmers’ markets also offer a variety of fresh, locally-sourced produce that can be used to make delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes. Visitors who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet can easily find options that suit their needs in Memphis.
Can I find any unique or exotic ingredients in Memphis?
Memphis is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and as a result, it is home to a wide range of unique and exotic ingredients. The city’s many international grocery stores offer a variety of ingredients that reflect the city’s cultural diversity. Visitors can find everything from traditional Southern ingredients like grits and okra to more exotic ingredients like kimchi and plantains.
In addition to these ingredients, Memphis is also home to a number of artisanal food producers who offer unique and delicious products. The city’s many farmers’ markets also offer a wide range of fresh, locally-sourced produce that can be used to make delicious and exotic dishes. Visitors who are looking to try something new and unique can easily find ingredients that will add a touch of excitement to their cooking.
Are there any food safety concerns that I should be aware of when eating in Memphis?
As with any city, there are some food safety concerns that visitors should be aware of when eating in Memphis. The city’s many restaurants and food establishments are regulated by the Shelby County Health Department, which ensures that all food is handled and prepared safely. However, visitors should still take some common-sense precautions to ensure their safety.
Visitors should make sure to eat at reputable restaurants and food establishments, and should avoid eating from street vendors or other unlicensed food sellers. They should also make sure to handle and store food safely, and should avoid consuming undercooked or raw meat, poultry, or seafood. By taking these precautions, visitors can enjoy the delicious cuisine that Memphis has to offer while staying safe and healthy.