Top Restaurants in Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis, Tennessee draws countless tourists every year. A vast majority of them come to the bluff city because of Elvis Presley. Some may think he is still alive and hope to catch a glimpse of him on the legendary Beale Street. Others come to the city to visit Graceland or visit Elvis' grave. Others come to Memphis to see the Memphis Grizzlies or the University of Memphis Tigers in action.

Regardless of the draw to Memphis, Tennessee, most tourists quickly learn that Memphis is home to some of the best barbeque in the world. While Memphis does have several excellent barbeque restaurants, not everyone wants or even likes to eat it. Luckily, Memphis, Tennessee has some superb restaurants that have absolutely nothing to do with barbeque. So here are some of the top picks for restaurants in Memphis, Tennessee. By the time you're done reading this, you are sure to be hungry!

Italian food has found a home in Memphis, and no, I'm not referring to Olive Garden. Memphis' very own Coletta's Restaurnat is an expert in fine Italian cuisine. All of their tasty food is homemade! The restaurant has two locations, 1603 S. Parkway East and 2850 Appling Road. Both restaurants offer all of the Italian favorites including a variety of pastas. The restaurant also claims to have the best barbeque pizza in the world. (Okay, I guess it is a little hard to get away from barbeque in Memphis, even at an Italian restaurant.) They even say that they are the "originators of the BBQ pizza", which was Elvis' favorite pizza. The restaurant is so proud of it that they even ship the delicious treat so that anyone can enjoy it!

Another Memphis dining treat is Paulette's, located on Overton Square at 2110 Madison Avenue. The French restaurant is quite popular and has been voted "most romantic restaurant" on several occasions. On weekend evenings and Sunday brunch you can dine and listen to a live pianist. While enjoying a fine dinner, don't forget to try their legendary popovers that are served with strawberry butter. They are delicious!

Another delicious Memphis eatery located in the Overton Square area is LeChardonnay, 2100-5 Overton Square Lane. They also offer a fine dining experience and have what they refer to as an "extensive wine list". The uniquely delicious food boasts an array of appetizers, including crab cakes remoulade, stuffed shrimp, and gourmet cheeses. For dinner, try the wood fired pizzas, prime rib, or the stuffed chicken breast. You can't go wrong with any of those delectable selections.

Memphis is also lucky enough to have the Erling Jensen restaurant, located at 1044 South Yates. My favorite part of the restaurant is their extensive desert menu that has a unique flair to it. Some of the favorites include the caramel crème brulee with laquered apples, the chocolate split, which is a chocolate lovers dream, and the delicious blueberry marzipan cobbler with honey ice cream. These are only a few of their sweet treats, so you'll have to go there in person to find out which one is your favorite. Of course, the restaurant also has plenty of delicious entrees that are so good you'll hardly have room for dessert. But trust me, its worth it!

These are some of the delicious restaurants Memphis has to offer. Whether you're looking for a new place to dine or a fancy restaurant for a special occasion, these top Memphis eateries are sure to provide you with a delicious meal. Enjoy!