What is in season in Memphis. and what to order when the market changes.
Spring
- Asparagus: Tennessee asparagus comes in late April and runs through May, sold at the Memphis Farmers Market on South Front.
- Strawberries: West Tennessee strawberries hit Memphis markets in late April. The strawberry cake at Frost Bake Shop is a Mother's Day rite.
- Crawfish: Crawfish boils run April through May at Restaurant Iris and Beale Street parking lots. The peak Memphis weekend is the World BBQ Contest.
- Spring greens: Mustard greens, turnip tops and pea shoots come to the Cooper-Young Saturday market through April and May; Soul Fish and Four Way cook them.
Summer
- Tomatoes: West Tennessee tomatoes come ripe by mid-June and run to September. The Memphis Farmers Market's tomato stalls are the obvious lunch destination.
- Mississippi catfish: Farm-raised Mississippi catfish runs all year but eats best in summer at Soul Fish Cafe in Cooper-Young and the Hollywood Cafe in Robinsonville.
- Sweet corn: Tennessee sweet corn comes in by July, served grilled at backyard BBQs and as a side at Central BBQ and the Bar-B-Q Shop.
Autumn
- Sweet potatoes: Mississippi sweet potatoes come in October and run through winter. The Four Way's candied yams and Frost's sweet potato cake mark the season.
- Persimmons: Native persimmons hit Memphis markets in late October and November. A Southern fruit for puddings and breads.
- Pecans: Mississippi pecans come in November and run into the holidays. Pecan pies show up at La Baguette and Frost from Thanksgiving.
Winter
- Collard greens: Collards run all winter at the Four Way, Alcenia's and Gus's. The greens are best after the first frost when they sweeten.
- Citrus from Florida: Florida citrus arrives in Memphis markets through January and February. Tangerines and grapefruits are the local cocktail bar's winter palette.
Seasonal in Memphis, FAQ
When is the best time to eat in Memphis?
Peak food season in Memphis is year-round.
What time do people eat in Memphis?
Local dining hours: lunch around 12:30, dinner from 19:30.
How does tipping work in Memphis?
service is typically included; small extra is welcome but not expected.
What is the one dish to try in Memphis?
Ask the next local you meet what they would order. Memphis rewards trust.