By JR Robinson

CEO of JustMy & JustMyMemphis

The campaign signs are coming down, the final ballots have been tallied, and the election season is behind us. Now comes the work that truly defines Memphis: pulling together, celebrating our shared identity, and putting our collective energy into the local businesses that make our city feel like home.

There is no better place to start than at the dinner table.

As CEO of JustMy and JustMyMemphis, I am proud to invite every resident, foodie, and neighbor across the Mid-South to take part in Black Restaurant Week: Taste of Memphis. Hosted by local trailblazers SavvyTech CTO Freddy McWilliams, Sage owner Charles Nwankwo, and Jasmine Leigh, this year’s event is more than a culinary showcase—it is a movement to unite our community around local economic growth and pure city pride.

Overcoming Obstacles: The Legacy of Black Business Ownership

Memphis cuisine is world-renowned, but behind the iconic flavors is a story of determination. For decades, Black restaurateurs and food entrepreneurs have built thriving spaces despite facing severe systemic hurdles.

From historical disparities in commercial lending to navigating rising operational costs and limited access to expansion equity, running an independent restaurant is a daily act of resilience. Yet, despite these challenges, Black entrepreneurs have consistently turned passion into anchor institutions.

Supporting these establishments isn't charity; it is an active investment in closing wealth gaps and ensuring the culture-bearers of Memphis continue to own a stake in the city’s economic future.

A Preview of the Flavor: Spotlighting Memphis Favorites

During Black Restaurant Week, participating restaurants across the city will serve exclusive menu items, limited-time specials, and curated tasting options designed for dine-in, mobile ordering, and quick to-go pickups.

To give you a taste of what’s in store, two local powerhouses are already lined up to showcase the range and depth of Memphis dining:

Sage Memphis: Elevated Urban Dining

Located in the heart of Downtown, Sage Memphis—co-owned by event host Charles Nwankwo—blends modern soul food with an electric, upscale vibe. Known for inventive cocktails and dishes that reinterpret Southern classics, Sage represents the modern era of Memphis culinary excellence.

A&R Bar-B-Que: Legendary Pitmaster Heritage

A true staple of Memphis food culture, A&R Bar-B-Que brings decades of tradition to the table. From slow-smoked ribs to their famous pulled pork, A&R embodies the historic soul and authentic pitmaster craft that put Memphis barbecue on the global map.

The Daily Countdown on JustMyMemphis

To build momentum leading up to the main event, JustMyMemphis is launching a daily countdown feature. Every day, we will shine a spotlight on participating restaurants, sharing the personal stories of the owners, showcasing their signature dishes, and giving you an insider’s look at where to eat during the big week.

How to Get Involved

Whether you run a kitchen or love a great meal, Taste of Memphis needs your voice and your participation.

For Locals & Food Lovers:

• Clear Your Calendar: Plan your week around local dining—try at least two new spots you’ve never visited before.

• Order To-Go or Delivery: Busy schedule? Mobile orders and family-style pickup are effortless ways to participate.

• Spread the Word: Share your plates on social media, tag the restaurants, and use #TasteOfMemphis to amplify local spots.

For Restaurant Owners & Food Entrepreneurs:

If you own a Black-owned restaurant, food truck, caterer, or bakery in the Memphis area, we invite you to join the lineup!

• Register Your Business: Head directly to thetasteofmemphis.com to sign up, list your special menu items, and connect with thousands of local diners.

Let’s turn out, lift up our local dining scene, and show the world what happens when Memphis stands together.

See you at the table!

JR Robinson

thetasteofmemphis.com

JustMy & JustMyMemphis