Memphis: A City Full of Flavor and Heart
Memphis is more than just the home of blues and barbecue; itโs a cornucopia of creative minds and flavors that keep the soul alive. From artists to activists, the city boasts a range of talented individuals shaping its identity. One such key figure is JB Smiley Jr., a beloved son of South Memphis, whoโs making waves as the chairman of the Memphis City Council.
JB Smiley Jr., at just 37 years old, isnโt your typical politician. While many lawmakers prefer a routine breakfast spot, Smiley often skips breakfast to get a head start on his responsibilities. โAs long as I get some coffee, Iโm good,โ he chuckled during our delightful conversation about food. And oh, the food!
The Four Way: A Culinary Institution
โIโve got a problem,โ he admitted, smiling widely as he talked about his love for soul food, especially from The Four Way, a legendary restaurant that has been serving up delicious dishes for over 70 years. โMemphis soul food is about fellowship,โ he proclaimed, and anyone whoโs ever been to The Four Way knows itโs a place where flavors and community come together.
Located at 998 Mississippi Blvd., The Four Way opens its doors from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday. Do yourself a favor and try the neckbones, greens, and cornbread. If youโre feeling a bit indulgent, take Smileyโs advice and double up on the macaroni and cheese. You wonโt regret it!
Take a Walk on the BBQ Side at Cozy Corner
If youโre looking for BBQ, Smiley recommends Cozy Corner, a no-frills BBQ joint that has been a staple since the 1970s. Located at 735 North Parkway, itโs open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday. โYou can run into just about anyone there,โ Smiley shared, mentioning that the restaurant regularly attracts local celebrities and politicians.
When it comes to the food, Cozy Corner is known for its dry rub seasoning, which Smiley insists complements their wings and ribs perfectly. The generous portions and affordable prices keep both locals and visitors coming back for more. Can you smell those ribs yet?
Porch & Parlor: A Taste of Elegance
For those special dining occasions, Smiley swears by Porch & Parlor for what he claims is the best steak in the city. Nestled on 2125 Madison Ave., this refined establishment is open for dinner from 4:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and extends to 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays. Despite Smileyโs enthusiasm, he jokingly pointed out that their famed Parlor Surf & Turf isnโt available every day of the week.
When they do serve it, expect a plate that features a succulent lobster tail, a scallop, and a king prawn perched atop a tender filet medallion. โYou will be blessed,โ Smiley assured. While youโre there, consider ordering the bone marrowโit elevates any meal!
A Sweet Delight at Cheesecake Corner
Finally, it wouldnโt be a proper food tour in Memphis without indulging in a bit of dessert. For that, Smiley recommends Cheesecake Corner, inside Fannie Lou’s Gourmet Chicken & Waffles at 500 Tennessee St.. With hours from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday, the location is perfect for a sweet escape after dinner.
โItโs God-sent,โ Smiley affirmed about the strawberry pound cheesecake, suggesting you try the vanilla pound cheesecake as well. The desserts are so good they draw customers from miles away, and you can bet Smiley was quick to cheer for the owner, Kevin Matthews, when the restaurant relocated.
With each bite, JB Smiley Jr. exemplifies the heart of Memphisโits people and its food. As he works to leave a positive legacy, he encourages others to tap into their potential, not just in politics but in their love for this community and its culinary treasures. So next time youโre in Memphis, take a cue from Smiley and dive into these local favorites. Youโll eat like a true Memphian!
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
