Pancho’s Cheese Dip, Memphis, TN

Delectable dip--a mid-south Tradition

by Sarah Stramel | September 06, 2010

Walk into any Memphis, Tennessee home and there’s a good chance you may find Pancho’s Cheese Dip behind the fridge door. It’s a staple that is just about as common as eggs and milk here in the Mid-South, and for good reason. This one of a kind dip is the perfect snack for any occasion, whether you’re just watching the tube or having a party for friends.

The world was first introduced to this …

University of Memphis Tigers, Memphis, TN

Memphis Football Favorite

by Sarah Stramel | August 30, 2010

Tiger football is a way of life in Memphis, Tennessee . The 2010 season is on the minds of fans all over the city. The first game of the season is coming up Labor Day weekend, on Saturday, September 4^th.

One of the driving forces behind making Memphis Tiger Football better is Coach Larry Porter. The former Tiger running back, who became head coach in November …

2010 Japanese Festival, Memphis, TN

Annual Event Celebrates Japanese Culture

by Sarah Stramel | August 23, 2010

The River City of Memphis is home to many cultures. In September, all things Japanese will be celebrated at the 2010 Japanese Festival at Memphis Botanic Garden.

The 2-day event is coming up on Friday, September 10^th and Saturday, September 11^th. Opening night will feature live entertainment by Fushu Daiko Taiko drummers and Japanese band Beauty & The Beast. Festival favorite, the Candyman, will be spinning his delicious sugar creations. Festival goers will be …

Tennessee Card Company, Memphis, TN

Sports Store with Wide Variety of NFL & NBA Gear

by Sarah Stramel | August 19, 2010

Even before the L.A. Lakers won the NBA Championship, diehard football fans were already thinking about fall.  The National Football League preseason has begun, and the official games are just around the corner.  

You can feel the excitement about the upcoming season when you walk into the neighborhood sports store, Tennessee Card Company. It’s your headquarters for everything having to do with football, basketball, and baseball.

Need an official NFL hat or …

Memphis Music & Heritage Festival, Memphis , TN

Best Pick for Labor Day Weekend

by Sarah Stramel | August 16, 2010

If you’re looking for something to do Labor Day weekend in the River City, there’s an awesome festival that celebrates everything Memphis has to offer. The Memphis Music & Heritage Festival, which is sponsored by the Center for Southern Folklore, has been around for 22 years and it never disappoints.

The main attraction of Saturday and Sunday’s shindig is the great Memphis music. No matter what kind of tunes you like …

The Busy Bakery, Memphis, TN

Tasty pastries and cakes made for your special occasion

by Sarah Stramel | August 05, 2010

Cakes, cookies, and pastries, oh my! You will find delectable treats and so much more at The Busy Bakery. Nestled in the quiet Memphis suburb of Bartlett, The Busy Bakery is a favorite place to satisfy even the most intense cravings for something sweet.

From yummy cinnamon rolls to enticing éclairs, there’s something for everyone who walks through the door of The Busy Bakery. For those who don’t like sweets, there are also wonderful …

Patrick’s Steaks & Spirits, Memphis, TN

Popular Eatery Pleases Customers for 14 Years

by Sarah Stramel | August 02, 2010

Love home cooking? Love barbeque and burgers? Love crab legs? No problem. You can find a little bit of everything at Patrick’s Steaks & Spirits. Centrally located in East Memphis, Patrick’s is a favorite among locals and I guarantee you will love it as well.

Every day for lunch and dinner there are Southern specials that are sure to make your mouth water. Daily specials include pot roast, stuffed bell peppers, chicken pot pie, …

Shake, Rattle, & Roll, Memphis, TN

Official Elvis Week Kick-Off Party

by Sarah Stramel | July 29, 2010

In less than two weeks Elvis fans from around the world will descend on Memphis, Tennessee to celebrate Elvis Week. It’s one of the busiest times of the year for the River City, and we love having the fans here.

There’s a party that will kick off the week-long celebration of the King of Rock and Roll that is sure to get you all shook up.

Shake, Rattle, & Roll is Tuesday, August …

High Point Pizza, Memphis, TN

Best Pizza Shop in Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | July 26, 2010

Pizza is a very personal food. Some like it thin, some like it thick, some like deep dish. Here in Memphis, there are plenty of locally-owned spots to get your pizza fix. My favorite is High Point Pizza.

Nestled in the quiet neighborhood of High Point Terrace, you can expect the perfect pie at High Point Pizza. The ingredients are always fresh and the end result is delicious. When my beau and …

Childrens Museum of Memphis, Memphis, TN

Kids Paradise Celebrates 20 Years

by Sarah Stramel | July 22, 2010

Where can you pick up a few groceries, be on TV, and crack open a safe?  Those are just a few of the hands-on activities you will find at the many exhibits inside the Childrens Museum of Memphis.

Now celebrating its 20^th year, the Childrens Museum of Memphis is a favorite place for parents to take their kids. You’ll want to go there too when you visit Memphis, Tennessee.

In addition to all …

Blues on the Bluff, Memphis, TN

Rockin’ Radio Fundraiser on the Mighty Mississippi

by Sarah Stramel | July 19, 2010

If you really want to see what Memphis is all about, WEVL’s Blues on the Bluff event is where you need to be. On Saturday, July 24th, people from all walks of life will head down to the bluffs of the Mississippi River for the 22^nd annual concert and fundraiser for the popular radio station.

You will hear the sounds of incredible Memphis music at this event on the grounds of The …

Farmers’ Market at the Garden, Memphis, TN

Popular Weekly Market Showcases Locally Grown and Made Goods

by Sarah Stramel | July 18, 2010

There’s nothing more satisfying than making a lovely meal with fresh veggies in the summer, grown right in the area where you live. People are no longer satisfied with buying vegetables from the grocery store, so more and more of them are heading to local Farmer’s Markets every year.

One place where you can guarantee you are getting the freshest vegetables and locally made goods is the Farmers’ Market at Memphis Botanic Garden. There …

Rock ‘n’ Roll and Blues, Memphis , TN

Rich Musical History Lives on Today

by Sarah Stramel | July 12, 2010

In Memphis, Tennessee, music is the thread that binds us together. From the sharecroppers who first sang the blues to the pioneers of rock ‘n’ roll, this river city has a rich musical history that is hard to match.

Memphis’s Sun Studio is where much of this magic was made. In fact, it’s the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll. The genre’s first single was recorded there back in 1951: “Rocket 88,” by …

Lichterman Nature Center, Memphis, TN

Natural Retreat in the Heart of Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | July 09, 2010

Where can you find 65 acres of lake, meadow, and forest in the River City? Look no further than Lichterman Nature Center. It’s an urban nature area located right in the heart of Memphis.

Native Mid-South plants, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals all call Lichterman Nature Center home. You can see all the wildlife when you take a stroll on the three mile nature path through the park, which is also accessible to people …

Elmwood Cemetery Memphis, TN

Beautiful Historic Resting Place

by Sarah Stramel | July 06, 2010

You may not think of putting a cemetery on your itinerary when you go on vacation this summer, but if you’re headed to Memphis, you may want to consider a visit to Elmwood.

Memphis’s oldest active cemetery, Elmwood began back in 1852. It’s the final resting place of more than 75,000 people. Some were famous, some infamous.

No matter what the person’s past, each was buried in a place a beauty. In addition …

Shelby Farms Park, Memphis, TN

Connect With Nature in the City of Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | June 30, 2010

No matter what outdoor activity you enjoy, there’s something for everyone at Shelby Farms Park. On any given day you will see people riding horses, fishing, biking, playing disc golf, canoeing, and even bird watching.

One of the most popular places at the park is Patriot Lake. All day long you will see lots of joggers, walkers, and roller bladers working out on the path around the lake. On the lake, people will be …

Indie Memphis Film Festival, Memphis, TN

Popular Film Fest Celebrates Its 13th Year

by Sarah Stramel | June 28, 2010

You may consider the number 13 to be unlucky, but that won't be the case with 2010's Indie Memphis Film Festival. It's an event that just keeps getting better every year.

For thirteen years, Indie Memphis has showcased independent Southern movie making, particularly the work of Memphis filmmakers. But it’s not all about the South, promising films from all over the country are shown at the film festival.

Movie lovers don’t want to …

Memphis Rock n Soul Museum, Memphis, TN

Museum Tells the Story of Musical Pioneers

by Sarah Stramel | June 24, 2010

Memphis is all about music, and if you love rock and soul, a visit to the Memphis Rock n Soul Museum is a must during your visit to the River City.

The prestigious Smithsonian Institution created the wonderful exhibit at the museum, called Rock ‘n’ Soul: Social Crossroads. It’s about the beginning of rock and soul music, which is about so much more than the tunes. It tells the story of the …

Red, White & Blue Ribbon Celebration, Memphis, TN

4th of July Celebration Will End with a Bang!

by Sarah Stramel | June 21, 2010

If you’re in Memphis on the 4^th of July, might I suggest celebrating Independence Day on Beale Street, the home of the blues?

The Beale Street Merchants Association is hosting the only celebration in Downtown Memphis on Sunday, July 4^th. You can expect a family-friendly event, complete with live music and of course, fireworks.

Memphis musicians will take the main stage at W.C. Handy park starting at 6:00 p.m. where you will enjoy …

Dinstuhl’s Fine Candies, Memphis, TN

Making Sweet Treats for Mid-Southerners since the 1920’s

by Sarah Stramel | June 17, 2010

Candy is dandy, and if you’re in Memphis, there’s a sweet place you may want to visit. It’s called Dinstuhl's Fine Candies. This company, which has been around since the 1920’s, is a family affair. Five generations of Dinstuhl’s have made the delicious candies, and they are still going strong.

No matter what your sweet tooth desires, there is something for everyone at Dinstuhl’s. There are boxed chocolates, brittles, fudge, and party …

My Big Backyard Birthday Party, Memphis, TN

First Birthday Celebration of the Popular Children’s Garden

by Sarah Stramel | June 14, 2010

It’s been nearly one year since a child’s dream playground opened up at Memphis Botanic Garden. What better way to celebrate than an awesome birthday party?

My Big Backyard has been a huge hit among children and their parents since it opened on August 1, 2009. The 2.5 acre children’s garden is educational and fun!  There are sixteen areas for children to learn, explore, play, and dream.

The youngest …

Mirimichi Golf Course, Memphis, TN

World-Class Course owned by Pop Star Justin Timberlake

by Sarah Stramel | June 10, 2010

What do you do when you come to relax from your whirlwind rock star life and there’s no place near your home to practice your golf swing? If you’re Justin Timberlake, you just build your own world-class golf course in your hometown.

I’m talking about Mirimichi, which is owned by Timberlake and his family, Lynn and Paul Harless. According to Mirimichi’s website, “golf, nature, and people exist in harmony.”

One visit …

Ghost River Brewery, Memphis, TN

Mid-South Company Gives Back to Nature with Beer Sales

by Sarah Stramel | June 07, 2010

When you leave the comforts of home you never know what kind of water you may be dealing with you arrive at your destination. When you travel to the River City of Memphis, rest assured, you will be able to drink right out of the tap!

There’s a Mid-South company that knows how important tasty water is: it’s the secret to its very successful Ghost River Brewing. Because the huge selection of …

The Pink Palace Museum, Memphis, TN

Memphis Institution Offers Educational and Fun Family Exhibits

by Sarah Stramel | June 06, 2010

Looking for family fun while visiting Memphis? The Pink Palace Museum promises to provide fun and educational exhibits your family will love.

The Pink Palace was originally a stately pink marble mansion, built for American grocer Clarence Saunders in the early 1920’s. Saunders developed the first self-serve grocery store, Piggly Wiggly.

Unfortunately hard financial times forced Saunders to sell the mansion to the City of Memphis, and the mansion was transformed …

Memphis Botanic Garden, Memphis, TN

Best Place to Have a Wedding

by Sarah Stramel | June 01, 2010

A very magical place to say your ‘I dos’ in Memphis is the Memphis Botanic Garden. With 96 acres of lush gardens and woodlands, it’s definitely a place you’d want to consider for an amazing outdoor wedding.

There are several beautiful spots to choose from when deciding where you would like to get married at Memphis Botanic: the Japanese Garden of Tranquility, the Rose Garden, the Sensory Garden, the Iris Garden, and more. …

Old Millington Winery, Millington, TN

Award-Winning Wines Available Right Outside of Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | May 26, 2010

You may think Memphis, Tennessee is all barbeque and blues, but there’s much more to offer in this river city. Just 14 miles north of Downtown, there’s a place that wine lovers will want to add to their itinerary. It’s the Old Millington Vineyard and Winery.

The Millington winery boasts award-winning wines grown from Chamborcin grapes. There’s a diverse selection of dry reds, dry whites, semi-dry whites, semi-dry blushes, ports, and fruit wines. Check …

Memphis Italian Festival, Memphis, TN

Annual Festival Offers Food, Music, & Family Fun

by Sarah Stramel | May 24, 2010

As May comes to a close, the party moves from Downtown Memphis to East Memphis, where Italians and their non-Italian friends are gearing up for the Memphis Italian Festival.

It’s a 21 year tradition that has grown to become one of the most anticipated festivals in Memphis. Memphis Italian Fest happens every year during the first week of June at Marquette Park, which is located in the heart of the city.

The …

Live at the Garden Concert Series, Memphis, TN

Popular Summer Concerts at Memphis Botanic Garden

by Sarah Stramel | May 19, 2010

Music lovers in Memphis look forward to a very special event every summer. I’m talking about the Live at the Garden concert series. Located on the grounds of the lush Memphis Botanic Garden, Live at the Garden is like no other concert experience.              

It’s the 10^th year for Live at the Garden, and this season in particular has Memphians buzzing about the incredible lineup. Whether you like soul, rock n roll, or …

Memphis in May Sunset Symphony, Memphis, TN

Memorial Day Weekend Favorite

by Sarah Stramel | May 17, 2010

If you missed dancing to your favorite bands at Beale Street Music Fest, or feasting on swine at the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, there’s one Memphis in May International Festival event left that is sure to impress: The Sunset Symphony.

Memphis in May’s oldest event takes place Saturday, May 28^th at Tom Lee Park in Downtown Memphis. Tom Lee Park is located on the banks of the mighty Mississippi, …

Orpheum Theatre, Memphis, TN

Historic Theatre Gearing Up for a Big Summer

by Sarah Stramel | May 13, 2010

If you are planning on vacationing in the River City this summer, a visit to the ‘South’s Finest Theatre’ shouldn’t be overlooked. The Orpheum promises an action-packed summer. From Broadway Shows to concerts to its summer movie series, there is something for everyone in your family to enjoy.

On June 10^th, soul singer Erykah Badu will take the stage at The Orpheum for her Out of Mind, Just in Time Tour. Janelle …

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, Memphis, TN

Best Camping in the Memphis Area

by Sarah Stramel | May 10, 2010

It’s about that time to get away from all, to get rid of the cell phone, computer, and TV. One of the best ways to do that is to get out of the house and go camping. About 20 minutes outside the Memphis City limits is the perfect place to escape reality: Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park.

The park, which is located on the Mississippi River, is nestled on 13,467 acres of forests that …

Mona Spa and Laser Center, Memphis, TN

Best Place for Pampering in the Mid-South

by Sarah Stramel | May 03, 2010

If you find yourself in the River City and you need a little pampering, Mona Spa and Laser Center of Memphis is the place to go. For 18 years, owner Mona Sappenfield has brought the latest skincare and laser technology to Mid-Southerners. You can enjoy everything she has to offer, too.

From the moment you walk into Mona Spa, you will more than likely feel a calm come over you. There’s just …

Grace Restaurant, Memphis, TN

Impressive Eatery in Hip Area of Cooper-Young

by Sarah Stramel | May 03, 2010

Cooper-Young is a great little area of Midtown Memphis because of its eclectic array of shops and restaurants. There’s bar food, Mexican, sushi, seafood, even an Irish pub. One spot that stands out above all the rest is Grace Restaurant. Opened last fall by Memphis chef Ben Vaughn, Grace offers a dining experience you will remember.

The menu changes daily, so you never know what to expect. My first trip …

Cozy Corner Restaurant, Memphis, TN

Outstanding Barbecue Off the Beaten Path

by Sarah Stramel | April 26, 2010

It’s no secret Memphis is a barbeque city, but finding the best isn’t always easy for someone from out of town. There are plenty of places that boast the best pulled pork sandwich or the most savory ribs, but if you want the best Memphis can offer, you have to ask the experts, the locals.

In my humble opinion, a modest restaurant off the beaten path offers the best barbeque in Memphis. I’m talking …

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, Memphis, TN

World-Famous Fried Chicken Restaurant

by Sarah Stramel | April 26, 2010

When tourists head to Memphis, there are typically two kinds of foods that must be consumed during a trip to this Southern city: barbecue and fried chicken.

A must-stop for fried bird lovers is Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. The recipe for this now-famous chicken was concocted in the Fifties by a Mason, Tennessee, man named Napoleon Vanderbilt. Mason is located just outside of Memphis in Tipton County, which is also the home of …

Face Up at the Garden, Memphis, TN

Social Networking Mixer at Memphis Botanic Garden

by Sarah Stramel | April 12, 2010

If you’re finding yourself spending more time with your friends online than in person, you aren’t alone. Thousands of Memphians spend countless hours talking with their friends on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. Some they know from work, school, or socializing. Others are strictly internet friends, whom they have never even met in person.

A new event will give you the chance to meet your social networking friends and fans for some …

11th Annual On Location Film Festival, Memphis, TN

Movie Fest Packed with Great Flicks

by Sarah Stramel | April 05, 2010

Film lovers, including myself, have something great to look forward to in Memphis this spring. I’m referring to the On Location: MEMPHIS International Film and Music Festival. It’s coming up in a few weeks at the Ridgeway Four Theater in East Memphis

The festival will kick off Thursday, April 22, with a film that is certain to attract Memphians and the international film community: Hometown Glory. The documentary is about …

Memphis Botanic Garden, Memphis, TN

Gorgeous Oasis in the Heart of Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | April 05, 2010

There's no place in Memphis more beautiful in the springtime than Memphis Botanic Garden. The 96-acre garden is a wonderful place to take your family, friends, and maybe even that special someone. It’s also nice to go by yourself for a little quiet contemplation away from your cell phone and computer.

Spring is the perfect time of year to visit, too. The daffodils and hyacinths are in full bloom, and it’s peak …

Family Egg Hunt, Memphis, TN

Memphis Botanic Garden Festival Favorite

by Sarah Stramel | March 24, 2010

It seems just yesterday we were bundling up in our winter coats in Memphis.  Actually, it was last week. It’s been a long, cold winter here. Fortunately now it’s warmed up, the flowers are blooming, and Memphians are all smiles.

There’s an awesome event coming up where everyone can enjoy the beautiful Spring weather, The Family Egg Hunt.  It’s happening next Saturday, April 3 at Memphis Botanic Garden.

Children …

Dish It Out, Memphis, TN

Dining Out For a Great Cause

by Sarah Stramel | March 23, 2010

Love to eat out? Like helping people? You can do both coming up on April 8 if you happen to be visiting our fair City of Memphis. 

The ‘Dish it Out’ event is a fundraiser for the National Foundation for Transplants. The organization helps cover the costs of transplants when insurance or government programs don’t.

Some of the best restaurants in Memphis are donating a portion of their proceeds …

Come Play in the Garden, Memphis Botanic Garden, Memphis, TN

Discover Your Senses at Memphis Botanic Garden

by Sarah Stramel | March 16, 2010

Ah Spring. It’s a time when you put away your sweaters and get out the sandals. Memphis is known for its beautiful landscape, and it’s particularly wonderful in the springtime.

One place where you can uncover signs of spring in the River City is the Memphis Botanic Garden, a 96-acre oasis where there is truly something for anyone who loves nature.

Little ones come everyday to play in the one of …

Ruth’s Chris, Memphis, TN

Savory Steakhouse With Great Service

by Sarah Stramel | March 16, 2010

Satisfaction is guaranteed when you dine at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse in East Memphis. Nestled in a bevy of high-end stores and restaurants, Ruth's Chris has the best steak in town!

The dimly lit restaurant is sophisticated yet comfortable, thanks to the dark wood and soft leather. My dinner companion and I were lucky enough to be seated in an elevated leather booth, which was perfect for people-watching.

Fresh, hot delicious bread …

Murphy’s Irish Bar, Memphis, TN

Best Place to Party for St. Patty’s Day

by Sarah Stramel | March 09, 2010

When asked to write about Memphis’s best party of St. Patrick’s Day, only one Irish pub  comes to mind. Located in historic Midtown Memphis since 1977, Murphy’s is the place to have a great time with friends and family.

To celebrate the luck of the Irish properly, the party moves outside at Murphy’s on St. Patty’s Day. That way there is plenty of room for everyone to listen to music, dance, eat, and drink …

Restaurante El Palmar, Memphis, TN

Tasty Mexican Restaurant

by Sarah Stramel | March 04, 2010

Mexican restaurants are a dime a dozen in the River City of Memphis, but finding an authentic meal isn't easy.  Fortunately there's a gem of a cantina nestled inside one East Memphis strip mall.

Restaurante El Palmar offers some of the best Mexican food I've ever tasted.  So good, I'm still raving about it and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon.  In fact, it's now on my list of favorite restaurants.

After …

Phoenix Club’s Mardi Gras Party, Memphis, TN

Party with a Purpose at The Historic Cadre Building

by Sarah Stramel | March 01, 2010

It may seem strange to be celebrating Mardi Gras weeks into the Lenten Season, but for members of Memphis’s Phoenix Club, the party didn’t end on Ash Wednesday. Last weekend about a thousand young professionals packed into the historic Downtown Cadre Building for the club’s annual fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis.

Don’t think this production by the Phoenix Club was like any other party you’ve been to before in …

Sivad Tribute, Memphis, TN

New Scrapbook about TV Horror Host

by Sarah Stramel | February 22, 2010

For years local artists have been celebrating the life of one of the most known figures in Memphis pop culture history, TV horror host Sivad.  Now many of his scary adventures can be found in a new book, simply titled SIVAD.

The ghastly theatrics of a man named Watson Davis were started in 1962.  Davis, who was the advertising director for Malco movie theatres, used to dress up as a gorilla and …

Blues City Tours, Memphis, TN

Guided Tours of Popular Attractions

by Sarah Stramel | February 22, 2010

Want to come to the River City but are worried you won’t be able to fit all the wonderful places into your itinerary?  That’s not a problem here in Memphis! 

There’s a great company that will show you everything you need to see. From Graceland to Beale Street, to the riverboats on the Mighty Mississippi, Blues City Tours has you covered. 

Experienced tour guides will fill you in all things Memphis as kick back …

River Oaks Restaurant, Memphis, TN

Seasonal French Cooking with a Southern Flair

by Sarah Stramel | February 15, 2010

You can expect a first-class meal when you dine at River Oaks Restaurant, because one of Memphis’s most celebrated chefs is at the helm of the East Memphis bistro.

Master chef Jose Gutierrez worked at the famous Chez Philippe restaurant in The Peabody, the South’s grand hotel, for 22 years. He left Chez Philippe to open his own restaurant Encore in 2005, which closed last fall.  

Chef Gutierrez has definitely …

Travel Guide to Memphis

Why You Should Visit Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | February 15, 2010

The Bluff City, located on the mighty Mississippi, has a rich history, much like its namesake, the Egyptian city of Memphis. When given the task of writing all the great things about my town, I had a hard time narrowing them down. One thing is for certain, Memphis is known for its blues, barbeque, and of course, Elvis, the King of Rock of Roll.

Elvis’s Graceland mansion in Whitehaven is visited by more than …

Fat Tuesday on the Terrace, Memphis, TN

Big Mardi Gras Party at Memphis Botanic Garden

by Sarah Stramel | February 10, 2010

Mardi Gras seems to have already started in the City of Memphis. Plenty of New Orleans Saints fans spent Super Bowl weekend preparing etouffee, gumbo and other Big Easy fare. Couple that with the Saints’ big win over the Indianapolis Colts, and the spirit of Mardi Gras is all over the place.

French for Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras is sort of the last hurrah for partiers before Lent. This year, you can live it up on …

Central BBQ, Memphis, TN

Best Places to Watch the Big Game

by Sarah Stramel | February 01, 2010

Anyone who has been to Memphis knows it is a huge sports town.  Whether fans favor the Memphis Grizzlies, University of Memphis Tiger basketball or football, sports is a way of life!

Of course, this week everyone is making plans for Sunday's Super Bowl standoff between the New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts.

There are lots of deals around town for Memphis Super Bowl fans all day long.  Central BBQ promises a …

The Half Shell, Memphis, TN

Some of the best seafood Memphis has to offer

by Sarah Stramel | January 31, 2010

In the mood for oysters on the half shell, or a piping hot bowl of gumbo?  The Half Shell, a long-time institution in Memphis, is the place to go.

You may think finding fresh seafood with no ocean in sight may seem like a hard feat to accomplish, but The Half Shell restaurant keeps seafood lovers, including myself, happy.

On a recent visit to this Memphis favorite, I left extremely satisfied.  …

The Inn at Hunt Phelan Home, Memphis, TN

Romantic Getaway in the Heart of Downtown Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | January 29, 2010

When you think of Memphis, you may think it’s all about blues and barbeque.  But just down the street from the clubs of Beale Street is one of the most romantic spots in the city: the restaurant and inn at the historic Hunt Phelan Home.

Built in 1828, the antebellum mansion is very charming and cozy.  It is sure to take you back to a simpler time.  But the cuisine at Hunt Phelan’s four-star …

Green Your Home Winter Plant Sale, Memphis, TN

Memphis Botanic Garden Experts Offer Rare and Unusual Plants

by Sarah Stramel | January 29, 2010

The winter months after the holidays are always a little drab.  The Christmas tree’s down and your living room may be looking a little empty. There is a way to liven up your home: head out to the Green Your Home Winter Plant Sale at the Memphis Botanic Garden.

This is not like any other plant sale in the Mid-South. The Memphis Botanic Garden offers rare and unusual indoor plants. Staff horticulturists …

2010 Cirque du CMOM, Memphis, TN

A Parisian Extravaganza at the Children’s Museum of Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | January 17, 2010

When you ask a Memphis parent where they take their children for fun, the Children’s Museum of Memphis is a likely answer. For 20 years, museum staff has been bringing fun, educational exhibits and activities to kids.

In honor of this milestone, the museum is celebrating 20 years in Memphis in true French fashion with a grownup party dubbed ‘A Parisian Extravaganza.’ 

The 2010 Cirque du CMOM takes place on Saturday, February 6^th and …

National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis, TN

Memphians honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

by Sarah Stramel | January 17, 2010

Since Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was shot and killed at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis on April, 4, 1968, his birthday may carry a greater significance for Memphians and those who visit the motel, which is now the National Civil Rights Museum.

There is no shortage of events happening at the museum in honor of Martin Luther King Day, especially for children. 

On Saturday, January 16, kids aged 3-10 are invited to come …

Los Compadres, Memphis, TN

Excellent Mexican Restaurant in Midtown Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | January 14, 2010

If you are looking for a casual place to enjoy a great Mexican meal, look no further than Los Compadres.  Simple, yet delicious dining is what you can expect at this Memphis favorite.

Los Compadres was forced to close its doors and move recently after the owner of the building failed to pay the mortgage.  That meant months and months without delicious soups, fajitas, and traditional Mexican fare.  When it reopened at its new location, customers …

Life Time Fitness, Collierville, TN

State-of-the-Art Fitness Center in Suburban Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | January 14, 2010

Many people don’t even think about working out when they are on vacation, but one place in Memphis may make you reconsider!  Far from just a gym, Life Time Fitness is an impressive complex that offers everything you need.

From the moment you enter the building, you will see Life Time Fitness is nothing like your normal workout experience.  A spa and café are located at the front entrance on opposite sides of the …

New Year’s Eve on Beale Street, Memphis, TN

Tiger Basketball, Live Music & Fireworks in Downtown Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | December 30, 2009

It’s no secret Beale Street is the place to have a good time!  This New Year’s Eve, the area is going to be really awesome because the party will be going on all day and night.

The fun starts at 3 p.m. Thursday, December 31, 2009 at the FedExForum.  That is where the Memphis Tigers will battle the Tennessee Vols on the basketball court.  The two teams are long-time rivals, so this should be interesting game. 

Harlan T. Bobo at the Hi-Tone Café, Memphis, TN

Local Singer-Songwriter’s Annual Concert in 3-D

by Sarah Stramel | December 30, 2009

When you go to a Harlan T. Bobo show, you never know what to expect, but you know a good time will be had by all.  Bobo’s recent two day Christmas concert may have been the best in its five year history.

With a little help from his family & friends, the singer-songwriter transformed the Hi-Tone Café into a colorful underwater sea world as part of the “A Celebration of The Eye” concert in 3-D.  Never …

Starry Nights 2009, Memphis, TN

Holiday Lights Display in Shelby Farms Park

by Sarah Stramel | December 15, 2009

Remember when you and your family used to all pile into the car together to look at Christmas lights? It's one of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit. In Memphis, Tennessee, you can find plenty of joy at Shelby Farms. This holiday season America's largest urban park was transformed into Starry Nights, a festive holiday lights display.

Set up along the main road in Shelby Farms, Starry Nights is a total drive thru …

Restaurant Iris, Memphis, TN

French-Creole Restaurant in the Heart of Historic Midtown Memphis

by Sarah Stramel | December 15, 2009

Restaurant Iris is the most fabulous restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee. Known for its savory French-Creole cuisine and its knowledgeable and friendly wait staff, Iris is sure to impress even the most discriminating foodie. 

Locals were thrilled when Iris opened its doors in April 2008. The once Victorian house was the home of French restaurant La Tourelle, an institution in Memphis. It was Chef Kelly English’s fabulous dishes that ensured Iris would be also carry …