Memphis, Tennessee, is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and Southern Hands Memphis stands out as a beacon of authentic Southern cooking with a modern twist. The restaurant’s menu is a carefully curated blend of traditional flavors and innovative dishes that celebrate the soul of Southern cuisine.
Whether you’re craving classic barbecue, hearty comfort food, or inventive sides, Southern Hands Memphis offers a diverse selection that caters to every palate. The menu is designed to reflect the cultural tapestry of Memphis, emphasizing fresh ingredients, bold spices, and the unmistakable warmth of Southern hospitality.
Dining at Southern Hands Memphis is more than just a meal; it’s an experience steeped in history and passion. Each dish tells a story, crafted with care and respect for the culinary traditions that have shaped the region.
The menu highlights both timeless recipes and contemporary creations, ensuring that guests enjoy a journey through the flavors of the South with every bite. From the first appetizer to the last bite of dessert, Southern Hands Memphis invites you to savor the essence of Memphis in a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere.
Starters and Appetizers
The starters at Southern Hands Memphis set the tone for an unforgettable meal. These dishes showcase the restaurant’s commitment to bold flavors and high-quality ingredients.
Designed to whet your appetite, the appetizers merge familiar Southern classics with inventive touches that surprise and delight.
The menu features a variety of options, from crispy fried green tomatoes to smoky deviled eggs that incorporate a hint of cayenne pepper. Each appetizer is crafted to balance texture and taste, offering a mix of crunchy, creamy, and savory elements.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Hand-battered and seasoned, served with a zesty remoulade sauce.
- Smoky Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs enhanced with smoked paprika and a touch of hot sauce.
- BBQ Chicken Sliders: Pulled chicken tossed in house-made barbecue sauce, topped with coleslaw.
- Southern Pimento Cheese Dip: Creamy pimento cheese served with freshly baked crackers.
Highlight: The Signature Fried Green Tomatoes
One of the most beloved starters is the signature fried green tomatoes, a dish that perfectly encapsulates Southern Hands Memphis’ philosophy. The tomatoes are sliced thick, coated in a seasoned cornmeal mixture, and fried to a golden crisp.
The accompanying remoulade sauce adds a tangy kick that cuts through the richness, making it a balanced and addictive appetizer.
“The fried green tomatoes are an absolute must-try; they combine tradition with a modern flavor profile that makes them stand out.” – Food Critic Review
Main Courses
The main courses at Southern Hands Memphis are the heart of the menu, featuring robust dishes that highlight the best of Southern cooking. Whether you prefer smoked meats, hearty stews, or vegetarian options, the variety ensures a satisfying and memorable meal.
Signature dishes include slow-smoked Memphis-style ribs, fried catfish with creamy tartar sauce, and a vegetarian-friendly black-eyed pea stew. Each entrée is prepared using time-honored techniques, like smoking and slow roasting, to maximize flavor and tenderness.
- Memphis-Style Pork Ribs: Dry-rubbed and slow-smoked for hours, served with a tangy barbecue sauce.
- Fried Catfish Plate: Lightly battered catfish filets served with hush puppies and coleslaw.
- Black-Eyed Pea Stew (Vegetarian): A hearty, flavorful option with seasonal vegetables and spices.
- Chicken and Waffles: Crispy fried chicken atop fluffy waffles drizzled with maple syrup and hot sauce.
Comparing Popular Entrées
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Cooking Method | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Memphis-Style Pork Ribs | Pork ribs, dry rub, BBQ sauce | Slow-smoked for 6 hours | Smoky, savory, mildly sweet |
| Fried Catfish Plate | Catfish, cornmeal batter, tartar sauce | Deep-fried | Crispy, tender, tangy |
| Black-Eyed Pea Stew | Black-eyed peas, seasonal vegetables, spices | Simmered | Earthy, hearty, mildly spicy |
| Chicken and Waffles | Fried chicken, waffles, maple syrup, hot sauce | Fried and griddled | Sweet, spicy, crispy |
Signature Sauces and Condiments
Southern Hands Memphis places great emphasis on their house-made sauces and condiments, which are integral to the dining experience. These flavorful accompaniments enhance the dishes, adding layers of complexity and depth.
From tangy barbecue sauces to spicy hot honey, the sauces are crafted with local ingredients and traditional recipes. Each sauce complements specific dishes, allowing guests to customize their meals according to personal taste preferences.
- Classic Memphis BBQ Sauce: A balanced blend of tangy tomato, molasses, and spices.
- Hot Honey Drizzle: Sweet and spicy, made from locally sourced honey and chili flakes.
- Remoulade Sauce: Creamy and zesty, perfect for fried appetizers.
- Spicy Mustard BBQ Sauce: A sharp and tangy sauce with a mustard base and cayenne kick.
Why Sauces Matter
The sauces at Southern Hands Memphis are not just extras; they are key elements that elevate the dishes. The balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes in each sauce is carefully calibrated to enhance the natural flavors of the proteins and sides.
“A great sauce can transform a good dish into an unforgettable one, and Southern Hands Memphis nails this with every bottle they serve.”
Sides and Accompaniments
Complementing the main courses are an array of sides that celebrate Southern comfort food at its finest. The sides at Southern Hands Memphis are thoughtfully prepared to provide both classic and unexpected options, ensuring a perfect balance on the plate.
From creamy mac and cheese to tangy collard greens, the sides offer variety in texture and flavor. Each dish is made from scratch, highlighting fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
- Mac and Cheese: Rich and creamy with a blend of sharp cheddar and smoked gouda.
- Collard Greens: Slow-cooked with smoked ham hocks and a hint of vinegar.
- Hush Puppies: Crispy on the outside, soft and savory inside.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Lightly seasoned and perfectly crispy.
Pairing Sides with Main Dishes
Choosing the right sides can significantly enhance your meal. For example, the smoky pork ribs pair beautifully with the tangy collard greens to balance the richness.
Meanwhile, the fried catfish is complemented by the crispy hush puppies and creamy mac and cheese, creating a satisfying contrast of textures.
| Main Dish | Recommended Side | Flavor Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Memphis-Style Pork Ribs | Collard Greens | Smoky and tangy balance |
| Fried Catfish Plate | Hush Puppies | Crispy and savory complement |
| Black-Eyed Pea Stew | Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet and earthy contrast |
| Chicken and Waffles | Mac and Cheese | Rich and creamy addition |
Desserts
Southern Hands Memphis rounds out the dining experience with desserts that are deeply rooted in Southern tradition yet infused with contemporary flair. Each dessert is made in-house, using classic recipes and fresh ingredients.
The dessert menu offers a variety of sweet treats that range from rich and creamy to light and fruity. Guests can indulge in decadent classics or explore new interpretations of Southern favorites.
- Peach Cobbler: Made with fresh peaches and a buttery crust, served warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Pecan Pie: A Southern staple with a perfectly gooey filling and crunchy pecans.
- Chocolate Bourbon Bread Pudding: Rich bread pudding infused with bourbon and topped with a chocolate drizzle.
- Banana Pudding: Creamy layers of banana, vanilla wafers, and whipped cream.
The Art of Dessert Presentation
Presentation is key to the enjoyment of these sweet dishes. Southern Hands Memphis takes pride in visually appealing desserts that invite guests to savor not just the taste but the experience.
The warm peach cobbler, for instance, is served in a rustic stoneware dish that keeps it hot and inviting, while the pecan pie is artfully drizzled with caramel sauce.
“Desserts at Southern Hands Memphis are the perfect ending to a soulful meal—comforting, rich, and beautifully crafted.”
Beverage Selection
The beverage menu at Southern Hands Memphis complements the food perfectly, with a range of options that highlight regional favorites and craft selections. Whether you prefer an artisanal cocktail, a locally brewed beer, or a classic Southern sweet tea, the drink offerings cater to diverse tastes.
The bar focuses on using fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations to create drinks that enhance the dining experience. There is also a selection of non-alcoholic beverages that showcase Southern-inspired flavors.
- Classic Sweet Tea: Brewed fresh daily, lightly sweetened with a hint of lemon.
- Memphis Mule: A twist on the Moscow Mule, featuring bourbon, ginger beer, and lime.
- Local Craft Beers: Rotating taps featuring Memphis breweries.
- Peach Bourbon Smash: Fresh peaches muddled with bourbon and mint.
Cocktails and Pairings
Choosing the right beverage can elevate the flavors of your meal. The smoky pork ribs pair exceptionally well with the spicy kick of a Memphis Mule, while the lighter Peach Bourbon Smash complements the sweetness of the dessert menu.
For those who prefer beer, the selection of local craft beers offers a variety of flavors from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, allowing for a personalized pairing experience.
| Beverage | Flavor Profile | Recommended Food Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Sweet Tea | Sweet, refreshing, citrus notes | Fried Catfish, Collard Greens |
| Memphis Mule | Spicy, tangy, ginger-forward | Memphis-Style Pork Ribs |
| Local Craft Beer | Varies: hoppy, malty, smooth | Chicken and Waffles, Mac and Cheese |
| Peach Bourbon Smash | Sweet, fruity, minty | Peach Cobbler, Pecan Pie |
Catering and Special Events
Southern Hands Memphis extends its culinary expertise beyond the restaurant through a comprehensive catering service designed for a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a corporate event, wedding, or private party, the catering menu reflects the same dedication to quality and flavor found in-house.
The catering options include customizable menus that feature favorites from the regular menu, as well as exclusive dishes tailored to event themes and guest preferences. The team works closely with clients to ensure every detail is perfect, from food presentation to timing.
- Customizable Menus: Options for BBQ platters, Southern-style buffets, and vegetarian selections.
- Event Planning Assistance: Guidance on menu selection, portion sizes, and dietary accommodations.
- Full-Service Catering: Includes setup, service staff, and cleanup.
- Delivery and Pickup Options: Flexible arrangements to fit client needs.
Why Choose Southern Hands Memphis for Catering?
The restaurant’s deep connection to Southern culinary traditions ensures that every catered event is infused with authenticity and flavor. The team’s attention to detail and willingness to customize menus means that clients receive a personalized experience that impresses guests and elevates occasions.
“Our goal is to bring the heart of Memphis to your event, with food that feels like home and service that exceeds expectations.” – Southern Hands Memphis Catering Manager
Conclusion
Southern Hands Memphis offers a menu that is a true celebration of Southern flavors, expertly balancing tradition with innovation. Each section of their menu—from starters to desserts—reflects a commitment to quality, authenticity, and creativity.
The carefully crafted dishes invite diners to explore the rich culinary heritage of Memphis while enjoying fresh, thoughtfully prepared meals that satisfy every craving.
The restaurant’s dedication to house-made sauces, locally sourced ingredients, and exceptional service elevates the dining experience, making Southern Hands Memphis a top destination for both locals and visitors.
Whether you’re indulging in smoky ribs, savoring delicate desserts, or sipping a perfectly mixed cocktail, every element of the menu is designed to delight and inspire.
For those planning special occasions, the catering service ensures that the same high standards and passion for Southern cuisine are brought directly to your event. Southern Hands Memphis is more than a restaurant—it’s a culinary journey through the heart of Memphis, where every dish tells a story and every meal feels like coming home.
