This Memphis restaurant wins 'Best Hotel Restaurant' in USA Today's Best Travel Awards

Stepping into the Peabody Hotel is like taking a master class in marrying classic Southern charm with modern sophistication. As you glide across the plush carpet, you're greeted by the grandeur of the hotel's signature restaurant, Chez Philippe .

Massive marble columns extend from the floor to the ceiling, while the rich drapery and exquisite artwork create a sense of refined drama. The air buzzes with the sounds of happy diners, the melodies of live music, and the enticing aromas wafting from the AAA 4-Diamond rated kitchen.

Long a magnet for Memphians and tourists, Chez Philippe has a new honor: "Best Hotel Restaurant" in USA Today's Best Travel Awards.

More: 10 best hotel restaurants in the US: Dream destinations for foodies and travelers

Chez Philippe serves modern American cuisine with classical French presentations created by Chef Keith Clinton. It is repeatedly listed among the most romantic restaurants in Memphis. and as one of the most romantic dining experiences in Memphis.

Clinton took over the kitchen in 2022, becoming the restaurant's first Memphis-born, -raised and -trained chef. It's not uncommon to see him shopping for the freshest ingredients at local farmers and international markets. And his calm, warm demeanor has also become part of the dining experience as he visits each table to add finishing touches to dishes tableside. Occasionally, lucky diners receive invitations to the kitchen to enjoy the Intermezzo course while getting acquainted with his culinary team.

More: It's not too late to check out these Memphis area farmers markets in the fall

Chez Philippe first opened in January 1982, shortly after the grand reopening of The Peabody Hotel. In the years since, it has come to be known — both locally and internationally — as a Memphis fine dining institution, winning several awards and recognitions ever since. It has been the only Forbes 4-Star and AAA 4-Diamond restaurant in the Mid-South since 1989 and Open Table called it one of the “Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants” in the U.S.

Chez Philippe is open for afternoon tea Wednesday through Sunday, 12 p.m.-3:30 p.m., and for dinner Thursday through Sunday, 5:30 p.m.-10 p.m.

Ellen Chamberlain is the food & dining reporter for The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached at ellen.chamberlain@commercialappeal.com

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: This Memphis restaurant wins 'Best Hotel Restaurant' in USA Today's Best Travel Awards