Southern Hands Homestyle Cooking in Memphis offers a truly authentic taste of Southern hospitality through its carefully curated menu. Nestled in the heart of Memphis, this beloved eatery has become synonymous with comfort food that’s crafted from scratch using time-honored recipes.
The menu reflects the rich culinary traditions of the South, featuring dishes that evoke warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of community. Every plate served is a testament to the art of homestyle cooking, where fresh ingredients and bold flavors come together to create memorable dining experiences.
Whether you’re craving savory barbecue, hearty sides, or decadent desserts, Southern Hands promises something for every palate. Their commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in the diverse offerings that celebrate Memphis’s vibrant food culture.
From classic meat-and-three combos to innovative takes on soul food staples, the menu is designed to satisfy both traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike. This dedication to genuine Southern cuisine makes Southern Hands a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of Memphis.
Signature Entrées
The heart of Southern Hands Homestyle Cooking’s menu lies in its signature entrées, each crafted to highlight the rich flavors and textures of Southern fare. These dishes are the cornerstone of the dining experience, offering hearty portions and bold seasoning that keep guests coming back for more.
With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the entrées showcase the depth of Southern culinary heritage.
One of the standout dishes is the Memphis-style barbecue ribs, slow-cooked to perfection with a smoky glaze that balances sweetness and spice. The ribs are tender enough to fall off the bone yet retain a satisfying char, a hallmark of expert pit mastery.
Another favorite is the fried catfish platter, featuring flaky, golden fish served alongside classic hush puppies and tangy coleslaw.
For those seeking comfort in a bowl, the menu offers a rich and creamy chicken and dumplings dish. This entrée combines tender chicken simmered in a savory broth with soft, pillowy dumplings, evoking memories of home-cooked meals passed down through generations.
“At Southern Hands, every entrée tells a story—of tradition, flavor, and the love poured into each bite.”
Popular Entrée Options
- Memphis-style Barbecue Ribs
- Fried Catfish Platter with Hush Puppies
- Chicken and Dumplings
- Smothered Pork Chops with Gravy
Hearty Sides
Sides at Southern Hands are not mere accompaniments but essential components that elevate the meal. The menu features an array of traditional Southern sides, each prepared with care to complement the main dishes perfectly.
These sides bring balance and variety, adding layers of texture and flavor to every plate.
Collard greens simmered with smoked turkey necks offer a deep, earthy taste with a touch of smokiness that enriches the palate. The macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleaser, boasting a creamy, cheesy sauce that binds perfectly cooked pasta.
For guests who favor starch, the candied yams provide a sweet contrast, glazed with brown sugar and butter.
Other sides like cornbread and black-eyed peas complete the experience, each carrying its own cultural significance and culinary charm. The balance of savory, sweet, and smoky notes in these sides highlights the thoughtful approach Southern Hands takes in crafting a harmonious meal.
Side Dish Highlights
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Cooking Style |
| Collard Greens | Earthy, Smoky | Slow simmered with smoked turkey necks |
| Macaroni and Cheese | Creamy, Cheesy | Baked with sharp cheddar and cream |
| Candied Yams | Sweet, Buttery | Glazed with brown sugar and butter |
| Black-Eyed Peas | Earthy, Savory | Simmered with ham hocks |
“Our sides are crafted to reflect the soul of Southern cooking—simple ingredients transformed with heart and tradition.”
Freshly Baked Breads
Breads at Southern Hands are more than a side; they’re an experience that enhances the meal’s warmth and comfort. Each loaf and roll is baked fresh daily, embodying the homestyle ethos the restaurant prides itself on.
The breads serve as perfect vehicles for soaking up sauces and gravies, adding another dimension to the dining experience.
The classic buttermilk cornbread is a fan favorite, boasting a moist, crumbly texture with a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory dishes. For those who prefer a softer bite, the yeast rolls are pillowy and slightly buttery, ideal for sopping up rich stews or gravies.
Additionally, Southern Hands offers jalapeño-cheddar bread which introduces a gentle heat balanced by the creamy sharpness of cheddar cheese. This variation is perfect for diners looking to add a little excitement to their meals without overwhelming the palate.
- Buttermilk Cornbread – moist and crumbly
- Yeast Rolls – soft and buttery
- Jalapeño-Cheddar Bread – mild heat with cheesy richness
“Baking bread from scratch is a labor of love that turns every meal into a comforting tradition.”
Classic Southern Desserts
Southern Hands Homestyle Cooking’s dessert menu is a decadent journey into the sweet side of Southern cuisine. Each dessert is crafted to provide the perfect end to a hearty meal, showcasing rich flavors and textures that delight the senses.
The desserts balance sweetness with traditional ingredients that have been cherished for generations.
The pecan pie is a standout, made with a flaky crust and a filling that is both gooey and nutty. It captures the essence of Southern holidays and family gatherings, offering a taste that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
Another beloved choice is the banana pudding, layered with vanilla wafers, ripe bananas, and creamy custard, topped with whipped cream for a light finish.
For chocolate lovers, the sweet potato chocolate cake is an inventive dessert combining the earthiness of sweet potatoes with rich cocoa, resulting in a moist and flavorful cake that is both unique and indulgent.
These desserts epitomize the warmth and hospitality Southern Hands aims to share with every guest.
Popular Desserts
- Pecan Pie – gooey, nutty, and flaky
- Banana Pudding – creamy, layered with vanilla wafers
- Sweet Potato Chocolate Cake – rich and moist
- Peach Cobbler – warm, fruity, and buttery topping
“Desserts at Southern Hands are crafted to evoke memories of family, comfort, and celebration.”
Refreshing Beverages
Complementing the robust flavors of the food, Southern Hands offers a selection of refreshing beverages that enhance the overall dining experience. The drinks menu features a mix of traditional Southern refreshments and classic favorites, designed to cool and invigorate the palate.
The house-made sweet tea is a quintessential Southern staple, brewed to a perfect balance of sweetness and tannic depth. It’s an ideal companion to the rich and savory dishes served throughout the menu.
For those seeking something lighter, the freshly squeezed lemonade provides a bright, citrusy contrast that refreshes and cleanses the palate.
Additionally, Southern Hands serves a curated selection of local craft beers and wines that pair well with the hearty fare. These beverages are selected to complement the menu’s flavors without overpowering the subtle nuances of each dish.
- House-made Sweet Tea
- Freshly Squeezed Lemonade
- Local Craft Beers
- Curated Wine Selection
“A great meal is incomplete without the perfect drink to match its soul.”
Family-Style Platters
Southern Hands embraces the spirit of community dining with its family-style platters, perfect for sharing and celebrating with loved ones. These platters combine a variety of the restaurant’s best dishes, encouraging guests to enjoy a communal meal reminiscent of Southern gatherings.
Each platter typically includes a selection of meats, sides, and breads, carefully balanced to provide a well-rounded Southern dining experience. The platters are designed to serve groups of various sizes, making them ideal for family dinners, celebrations, or casual get-togethers.
Sharing these platters fosters connection and conversation, embodying the warmth and generosity that Southern cuisine celebrates. The thoughtfully crafted combinations ensure that each guest can savor a variety of flavors and dishes during their meal.
Sample Family Platters
| Platter Name | Meat Options | Sides Included | Serves |
| Classic Southern | Barbecue Ribs, Fried Chicken | Collard Greens, Mac & Cheese, Cornbread | 4-6 |
| Seafood Feast | Fried Catfish, Shrimp | Candied Yams, Black-Eyed Peas, Yeast Rolls | 3-5 |
| Comfort Combo | Smothered Pork Chops, Chicken and Dumplings | Green Beans, Mashed Potatoes, Jalapeño-Cheddar Bread | 4-6 |
“Our family platters are a celebration of Southern tradition—bringing people together through shared food and memories.”
Special Dietary Options
Understanding the diverse needs of its guests, Southern Hands offers a variety of special dietary options without compromising on flavor or authenticity. Whether you require gluten-free, vegetarian, or lighter fare, the menu includes thoughtfully prepared dishes that cater to these preferences.
Gluten-free diners can enjoy selections like the grilled chicken breast served with steamed vegetables and seasoned rice, ensuring a satisfying meal free of gluten concerns. Vegetarian options include hearty vegetable plates featuring seasoned greens, black-eyed peas, and fresh cornbread made without gluten-containing ingredients.
Portion sizes can also be adjusted for those seeking lighter meals, providing flexibility while maintaining the rich flavors that define Southern Hands. This commitment to inclusivity ensures every guest leaves with a fulfilling and delicious experience.
- Gluten-Free Grilled Chicken Plate
- Vegetarian Vegetable Medley
- Gluten-Free Cornbread
- Light Portion Options Available
“Delicious Southern cooking should be accessible to everyone, regardless of dietary needs.”
Conclusion
Southern Hands Homestyle Cooking in Memphis stands as a beacon of traditional Southern cuisine, offering a menu that honors both heritage and innovation. Each dish is a reflection of the region’s rich culinary history, prepared with care and passion to deliver an authentic taste experience.
The diversity of the menu—from signature entrées and hearty sides to freshly baked breads and classic desserts—ensures that every guest finds something to cherish.
The emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, coupled with time-tested recipes, makes Southern Hands a destination where food transcends mere sustenance to become a celebration of culture and community.
Whether dining solo, with family, or in larger groups, the family-style platters and special dietary options provide flexibility without sacrificing quality or flavor.
By capturing the essence of Memphis’s Southern roots and presenting it in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Southern Hands invites patrons to savor more than just a meal—they offer a genuine slice of Southern life.
This commitment to authenticity and hospitality is what makes their menu not only a culinary delight but also a treasured Memphis tradition.
