While Memphis is often hailed as the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll music, there’s an equally revered hero in the heart of this cultural haven — its soul food. Each March, the city hosts a delicious journey known as Memphis Black Restaurant Week, when locals and visitors alike are invited to savor the flavors that define the essence of “Bluff City.”
While Memphis is a top tourist destination, the city’s culinary scene has emerged as a highlight in its own right. Memphis Black Restaurant Week provides Black-owned restaurants with a platform to showcase their offerings through special dining deals, not only attracting new customers but also raising awareness and support for minority-owned eateries across the country.
Established in 2016, Memphis Black Restaurant Week (MBRW) stands out among myriad restaurant weeks across the United States. This unique culinary event embodies Memphis’ unwavering commitment to diverse flavors, particularly from its thriving Black-owned establishments. The City of Memphis Office of Business Diversity & Compliance emphasizes the importance of supporting Black restaurants, asserting that MBRW “plays a crucial role in achieving socioeconomic upliftment, and the sustainable implementation of these beliefs will strengthen our communities and open opportunities for future generations.”
Rooted in a rich historical tapestry, Memphis has long been a destination with a legacy. Initially renowned as a hub for African-American blues musicians, Memphis laid the groundwork for the genre’s national prominence. The city later evolved into the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, with luminaries such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis launching their careers at Sun Studio in the 1950s. Subsequently, Memphis became a home for soul music, giving rise to legends like Otis Redding, Booker T., and the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, who was born in Memphis and would later return to…
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