June 2024. A beloved Midtown diner caught fire. Patrons and community members were asking, “When will it reopen?” “Will it reopen?” “What will happen to the historic Barksdale’s restaurant?” 

In comes Bryant Bain. 

“That’s a fun story…” Bryant began. “Basically, right place, right time.” 

What Will Happen to Beloved Barksdale’s?

Shortly after the fire, Bryant decided to drive past the building because he’s “nosy” and wanted to see the damage. It just so happened, at the same time he was driving by, out walked then owner, Beth Henry. Bryant rolled down the window of his car and asked what was going to happen to the restaurant. Beth explained she was hoping to reopen. Bryant gave Beth his business card in case anything changed. 

Weeks passed, and no one heard anything about the restaurant until a post on a neighborhood group mentioned that it was going to be sold and likely turned into office spaces. Immediately, Bryant got on the phone and called Beth.  

Next thing you know, Ryan Glosson, Bryant’s business partner, is meeting with Beth. 

“Her biggest priority was this place staying the same as it was,” Ryan explained, “Being that community, staple location. That’s exactly what we wanted to do as well.” 

Bryant, his wife Heather, and Ryan became the new owners of Barksdale’s and began the journey to reopen after the fire.  

“Everything had to be gutted and redone,” Bryant said.

Even still, they met with the staff to get their thoughts and answer any questions or concerns. 

“We met with the entire staff [and figured out] what was sacred in this room,” Ryan said.  

What had to remain the same were the walls. Walls displaying memories throughout the decades. Sports team memorabilia, pictures of friends and former owner Bob Henry, and Memphis-theme décor line the notable wood panels. 

Barksdale’s Reopens

April 14th Barksdale’s reopens. The moment the ribbon was cut, the crowd erupted into cheers. The cherished breakfast spot, open for business once again. 

Despite the changes, the atmosphere remained the same.  

“Homey,” as Heather put it.  

Barksdale is a place for anyone and everyone to feel at home.  

“I think it really does try and be a diner. It really tries to be kind of that community place. You’ve got people who come in here almost every day and drink the coffee,” Ryan starts.  

“Twice a day,” Heather chimes in.

Bryant adds, “I want people to feel like they’re at Grandma’s house. That’s essentially what I made the menu after.”

The Menu

The menu mostly remains the same with some minor switches here and there. You have their most popular dish, the two-egg plate. Or you can try their savory Western omelet. Or perhaps, you’re in the mood for something sweet. They’ve got pancakes and French toast. Maybe you’re more of a lunch person. Barksdale’s has a whole menu filled with classics, like Heather’s favorite, chicken and dressing. 

Regardless of what you choose, you can’t go wrong. 

“Just to have it back, to see these walls decorated the way they were, I think it’s been great for folks,” Ryan said. 

Barksdale’s Gets 5 Forks Up for Revitalizing a Midtown Staple