Beyond the historic square and tree-lined streets, Collierville, Tennessee, boasts a culinary landscape that’s worth exploring. This charming town, located just outside Memphis, offers more than just picturesque scenery; it’s a haven for food lovers seeking diverse and delicious dining experiences. From comforting Southern classics to vibrant international flavors, Collierville’s food scene is quietly establishing itself as a destination. With a strong sense of community and a growing number of independent restaurants, Collierville presents a unique blend of tradition and innovation in its culinary offerings.
Why focus on food? Because food is more than just sustenance; it’s an experience, a connection to culture, and a way to discover the heart of a place. Collierville’s restaurants reflect the town’s welcoming spirit and provide a taste of its unique character. This article will guide you through some of the best food experiences Collierville has to offer, from casual eateries to upscale dining, ensuring you have a memorable and satisfying culinary journey.
Local Favorites & Southern Comfort Food
No exploration of Tennessee cuisine is complete without embracing the hearty and soul-satisfying flavors of Southern comfort food. Collierville proudly showcases its Southern heritage through a selection of restaurants that serve up time-honored recipes with a modern twist. These are the places where you can find perfectly fried chicken, creamy grits, and melt-in-your-mouth barbecue, all prepared with love and tradition. They’re the kind of meals that stick to your ribs and leave you feeling warm and content.
The Southern Table
First, let’s talk about The Southern Table. This restaurant is a true embodiment of Southern hospitality and culinary excellence. What makes it a “best” is its unwavering commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and its dedication to preserving traditional Southern cooking techniques. It has become a local favourite and offers a high quality authentic taste of what collierville has to offer.
When you visit, make sure to try the signature dish: their Shrimp and Grits. It’s a creamy, dreamy concoction of stone-ground grits, succulent shrimp, and a rich, flavorful gravy that will transport you straight to Southern food heaven. The perfectly cooked shrimp is so tender it melts in your mouth, and the grits are the perfect consistency. Pair it with some collard greens and you will be on your way to a true southern culinary experience.
The ambiance at The Southern Table is warm and inviting, with a rustic-chic décor that perfectly complements the food. The comfortable seating and friendly staff make it an ideal spot for a family dinner, a romantic evening, or a casual gathering with friends.
The Memphis Barbecue Company
Next up is The Memphis Barbecue Company, a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Memphis-style barbecue. This place is a “best” because it uses time-honored techniques, high-quality meats, and a secret blend of spices to create barbecue that is simply irresistible. Locals and tourists flock here for their mouthwatering ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, all smoked to perfection over hickory wood. This is a place you can bring your family to enjoy some delicious food and a laid back experience.
A trip to The Memphis Barbecue Company is not complete without the Memphis Barbecue Platter. This massive platter is loaded with ribs, pulled pork, smoked sausage, and all the classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad. The ribs are tender and smoky, the pulled pork is juicy and flavorful, and the sides are the perfect complement.
The Memphis Barbecue Company offers a relaxed and casual atmosphere, with picnic-style seating and a lively vibe. It’s a great place to enjoy a hearty meal with friends and family while soaking up the true spirit of Memphis barbecue.
Bishop’s Diner
Finally, we have Bishop’s Diner, a classic Southern diner that has been serving the Collierville community for generations. It’s a “best” because it offers a nostalgic glimpse into the past, with its retro décor, friendly service, and comforting menu of Southern classics. Bishop’s is known for its homestyle cooking, generous portions, and affordable prices. It offers great food for the price.
Be sure to order the Chicken Fried Steak when you visit. It’s a crispy, tender, and flavorful masterpiece that is served with creamy gravy and your choice of sides. The chicken fried steak is perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection, and the gravy is rich and savory. This is a true Southern comfort food classic.
Bishop’s Diner offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with its classic diner booths and friendly staff. It’s a great place to grab a quick breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a satisfying dinner while feeling like you’ve stepped back in time.
International Flavors
While Southern cuisine reigns supreme in Collierville, the town also boasts a diverse array of international restaurants that cater to a variety of palates. From authentic Italian trattorias to vibrant Mexican cantinas, Collierville offers a culinary passport to explore flavors from around the world.
Ciao Italia
Ciao Italia, a local favorite serving traditional Italian dishes. This restaurant is a “best” because it is known for its authentic Italian cuisine, made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and its warm and inviting atmosphere. It is a local favourite that is always bustling with people.
The must-try dish at Ciao Italia is their homemade Lasagna. It’s a rich and flavorful masterpiece made with layers of pasta, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. The lasagna is baked to golden perfection and served with a side of garlic bread. The lasagna is cooked perfectly and you can taste the love that goes into the dish.
Ciao Italia offers a romantic and intimate atmosphere, with its soft lighting, cozy seating, and attentive service. It’s a great place for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
El Mezcal
For a taste of Mexico, there’s El Mezcal. This vibrant cantina is a “best” because of its authentic Mexican cuisine, festive atmosphere, and extensive tequila selection. El Mezcal offers a wide range of traditional Mexican dishes, from sizzling fajitas to flavorful enchiladas, all made with fresh ingredients and authentic spices. The restaurant also boasts a lively bar scene, with a wide selection of tequilas, margaritas, and other Mexican cocktails.
When visiting El Mezcal, make sure to order the Fajitas. These sizzling platters are loaded with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp, along with bell peppers, onions, and all the fixings. The fajitas are served with warm tortillas, guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo. You will be sure to fill up on this delicious dish.
El Mezcal offers a festive and energetic atmosphere, with its colorful décor, lively music, and friendly staff. It’s a great place to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a fun night out with friends.
Tokyo Grill
Finally, we have Tokyo Grill, offering tasty Asian food. A family owned restaurant and a “best” because it is a great option for a fast but delicious lunch. Its simple offerings and easy to eat dishes make this restaurant one of the top places for lunch.
You must order the Chicken and Shrimp Hibachi, it is delicious and the perfect amount of food to keep you filled until dinner. The chicken and shrimp are always fresh and cooked with love. The white sauce adds the perfect amount of sweetness and tang.
Tokyo Grill offers a casual and quick atmosphere. It is the perfect option for grabbing a quick bite.
Casual Eats & Quick Bites
Sometimes, you just need a quick and satisfying meal without all the fuss. Collierville has you covered with a variety of casual eateries that offer delicious food in a relaxed setting. These are the places where you can grab a burger, a slice of pizza, or a sandwich without breaking the bank.
Burger Shack
Burger Shack is a popular spot for those looking for a classic American burger. This is a “best” because it uses high-quality beef, fresh toppings, and homemade buns to create burgers that are simply irresistible. They offer a variety of specialty burgers, along with classic sides like fries, onion rings, and milkshakes.
Order the Shack Burger, a juicy and flavorful patty topped with cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and their signature Shack Sauce. Pair it with a side of crispy fries and a creamy milkshake for the ultimate burger experience. The shack sauce adds the perfect balance of salty and tangy.
Burger Shack offers a casual and family-friendly atmosphere, with its retro décor and friendly staff. It’s a great place to grab a quick lunch or a fun dinner with the kids.
Gourmet Pizza
If you’re craving a slice of pizza, look no further than Gourmet Pizza. This pizzeria is a “best” because it uses fresh dough, high-quality ingredients, and creative toppings to create pizzas that are both delicious and unique. They offer a wide variety of specialty pizzas, along with classic pies and custom creations.
Try the Gourmet Supreme Pizza, topped with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and black olives. This pizza is loaded with flavor and texture, and it’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning pizza lover.
Gourmet Pizza offers a casual and inviting atmosphere, with its comfortable seating and friendly staff. It’s a great place to enjoy a slice of pizza with friends and family.
The Sandwich Factory
We also have The Sandwich Factory, a local sandwich shop. This restaurant is a “best” due to the delicious and unique options it has, as well as the kind staff.
The must have is the Italian Sandwich. A classic combination that creates the perfect bite. The bread is toasted to a perfect crispness and the meat tastes delicious.
This shop offers a casual and quick experience and is perfect for lunch.
Sweet Treats & Dessert Destinations
No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and Collierville has plenty of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. From creamy ice cream to decadent pastries, Collierville offers a variety of dessert destinations that are sure to please.
Collierville Creamery
Collierville Creamery is a local ice cream shop offering delicious flavors. A “best” due to its wide variety and high quality creamy ice cream.
Order the classic chocolate ice cream for a rich and creamy treat. The dark chocolate flavour is the perfect ending to any meal.
The restaurant offers a cozy and fun atmosphere that is perfect for bringing your children.
The Sweet Tooth Bakery
The Sweet Tooth Bakery offers delicious pastries and cakes. This is a “best” for its cakes and creative treats.
Order a slice of chocolate cake for a delicious chocolatey treat.
This shop offers a cozy atmosphere and is the perfect place to satisfy that craving!
In Conclusion
Collierville, Tennessee, offers a diverse and delicious culinary landscape that is sure to please any food lover. From comforting Southern classics to vibrant international flavors, Collierville has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal, a fine dining experience, or a sweet treat, Collierville’s restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings.
So, the next time you’re in Collierville, be sure to explore these culinary gems and discover your own favorites! Venture beyond the well-trodden paths and discover the hidden gems that make Collierville a true culinary destination. Support local businesses, explore new flavors, and create lasting memories with every bite.
Collierville’s food scene is a delicious reflection of the town’s warm hospitality and vibrant community. Come hungry and discover the best it has to offer! This is a place where you can truly savor the flavors of the South and experience the true spirit of Southern hospitality. So, pack your appetite and get ready for a culinary adventure in Collierville, Tennessee!
