Sea to Table: Top Seafood Spots in Memphis from Our Summer Vacation

Photo byMike BergmannonUnsplash

This summer, our family explored the culinary delights of Memphis, Tennessee, a city celebrated for its rich musical heritage and delectable food. While Memphis is famed for its barbecue and Southern comfort cuisine, we discovered it also offers some outstanding seafood. Here’s a personal guide to the best seafood spots in Memphis, based on our unforgettable summer vacation.

1. The Half Shell

Our first seafood adventure was at The Half Shell, a long-standing favorite known for its fresh and flavorful seafood dishes. The vibrant, nautical-themed decor and friendly service made us feel right at home. We started with the oysters, and they were incredibly fresh and briny. The highlight was the seafood platter, which included perfectly cooked shrimp, scallops, and fish.

Must-Try: The Seafood Platter – a generous assortment of shrimp, scallops, and fish, served with hush puppies and coleslaw.

2. Flying Fish

Next, we visited Flying Fish, a lively spot known for its fun atmosphere and extensive seafood menu. The quirky decor, including fishing memorabilia, added to the charm. We tried the catfish basket, and it was fantastic. The catfish was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, served with fries and coleslaw.

Must-Try: The Fried Catfish Basket – crispy catfish fillets served with fries, coleslaw, and hush puppies.

3. Soul Fish Cafe

Soul Fish Cafe offered a perfect blend of Southern hospitality and delicious seafood. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere made it a great spot for our group. We ordered the blackened catfish, and it was a hit. The fish was well-seasoned and cooked to perfection, paired beautifully with sides like sweet potato fries and greens.

Must-Try: The Blackened Catfish – spicy, flavorful catfish served with sides like sweet potato fries and collard greens.

4. Tsunami

Tsunami provided a more upscale dining experience with a focus on Pacific Rim cuisine. The elegant, minimalist decor created a sophisticated ambiance. We sampled the seared tuna, and it was exquisite. The tuna was perfectly seared and served with a delightful soy-ginger glaze.

Must-Try: The Seared Tuna – tender tuna with a soy-ginger glaze, served with wasabi mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.

5. The Majestic Grille

The Majestic Grille, located in a beautifully restored 1913 movie theater, offered a unique and elegant dining experience. The historic ambiance and impeccable service made our meal special. We tried the grilled salmon, and it was divine. The salmon was cooked to perfection and accompanied by a delicious lemon-butter sauce.

Must-Try: The Grilled Salmon – perfectly grilled salmon with a lemon-butter sauce, served with asparagus and rice pilaf.

6. Pearl’s Oyster House

Our final stop was Pearl’s Oyster House, a bustling spot known for its fresh oysters and seafood boils. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff made it a memorable experience. We indulged in the shrimp and crab legs, and they were phenomenal. The seafood was fresh and flavorful, seasoned with just the right amount of spice.

Must-Try: The Shrimp and Crab Legs – fresh shrimp and crab legs served with corn, potatoes, and a flavorful seasoning.

Reflections on Our Seafood Journey

Our seafood adventure in Memphis was a delightful exploration of fresh, flavorful dishes and warm hospitality. Each spot offered its unique take on seafood, from casual fried catfish to elegant seared tuna. The friendly people, rich flavors, and inviting atmospheres made our summer vacation an unforgettable experience.

If you’re a seafood lover or just enjoy good food, Memphis is a must-visit destination. Each restaurant we visited left us with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the art of seafood cooking. So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to savor the best seafood that Memphis has to offer. Happy eating!