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Celebrating 186 Years of Growth and Prosperity — December 4, 2024

Together, we’re driving the Greater Memphis region forward, making it a leader in business agility and success. Join the Greater Memphis Chamber in honoring the collaboration, innovation, and transformation that are making Memphis Greater every day.

Register for Our Annual Chairman’s Luncheon

Greater Memphis Chamber

Happy Downtown Memphis Dining Week!

Happy Downtown Memphis Dining Week!

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Downtown dining is crucial to the Memphis ecosystem. Without our restaurants downtown, where would you grab a bite to eat before seeing a show at the Orpheum or grab drinks after watching the Grizzlies play at the FedExForum? While this is definitely a perk of restaurants in the area, downtown dining is for more than just that. Downtown dining is for after work drinks with coworkers, meetings with a client, girls’ night out, a culinary experience, catering for your next event, a good meal, and so much more! 

November 4-10, 2024, is Downtown Memphis Dining Week. Take the time to head downtown and grab a bite to eat, support local restaurants, and celebrate Memphis dining. To help you with this task, here is a short list of some of our favorite downtown restaurants for every occasion.  

These restaurants are perfect for:

A Quick And Delicious Lunch: 

A Mid-Week Pick-Me-Up: 

A Burger And A Beer: 

A Nice Dinner: 

Sunday Brunch: 

Gaming And Snacking: 

Trying Something New: 

Memphis Classics That Never Fail: 

 

Let us know which of these downtown dining options you eat at this week! 

For more information about Downtown Memphis Dining Week visit the Downtown Memphis Commission website.

View our latest Greater Plate blog post here.

THE GREATER PLATE: From Mexico to Memphis

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How does someone go from being a police officer to owning a cleaning business to owning an authentic Mexican restaurant? Those industries don’t have much in common except for one woman, Claudia Cogswell. All because she is “…one of those people that [say], ‘Hey, let’s give it a shot,” we have Memphis Tacos.

Behind Memphis Tacos

Claudia Cogswell has a can-do attitude and has been giving “it” a chance her whole life.

“I’m originally from Mexico,” she started. “When I was five years old my family came, and I was moved to California to go to school.”

After finishing school Claudia became a police officer in California. She worked in law enforcement for 12 years. She then got married to George Cogswell. George had a job opportunity in Memphis, so the couple moved here. Shortly after moving, the Cogswells started a cleaning company called Memphis Clean.

One of Memphis Clean’s clients was the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. While cleaning their space, she noticed that the food court didn’t have any Mexican food. In a conversation with the people at UTHSC, Claudia asked questions about the space and ultimately asked to open a Mexican restaurant.

“I said, ‘Let me open one up.’”

And from there she got to work. She and her business partner (and husband), George, opened Memphis Tacos, an authentic Mexican restaurant, in the food court at UTHSC. They have been open for a year and a half now.

“I know authentic Mexican food, because I’m Mexican, so let’s do this,” she said.

The Inspiration

“Being from a Mexican family, I grew up on authentic Mexican food and that was one of my disappointments when I moved here to Memphis. There is none,” Claudia explained.

Claudia experienced eating authentic Mexican food her whole life. That is until she moved to Memphis. While there are Mexican restaurants in town, Claudia was used to a world where there was an abundance of Mexican restaurants that gave her the cooking she loved.

“In California anywhere you turn, you find a great taco,” she claimed. “Here, it’s non-existent.”

She noticed an absence of authentic Mexican restaurants in the UTHSC area and was prompted to fix it herself.

“When I was given the opportunity to provide Memphians authentic Mexican food, I jumped on it,” she exclaimed.

Another crucial factor in her decision to open Memphis Tacos was the COVID-19 pandemic.

She explained, “Because of COVID, everybody had to kind of reinvent themselves. So I thought, ‘You know what, this would be a good opportunity to kind of get my foot in the door and see how this works.’”

She used the pandemic as her opportunity to try something new. Many people would see that as a huge risk and one you shouldn’t take. They heard of all the businesses struggling during the pandemic, but Claudia and George gave it a shot anyways.

“It’s been a good ride,” she commented.

Their Offerings

Memphis Tacos has a variety of delicious options such as the chorizo taco, steak taco, and rice.

Memphis Tacos has authentic Mexican dishes. Of course, to go with the name there are tacos, but they have other classic Mexican food.

“We have tacos and burritos; bowls, quesadillas, churros. You name it, we could do it.”

For any good restaurant it is crucial to have a solid menu of food items your customers enjoy. When crafting the menu, Claudia spent a lot of time collaborating with her staff. They have been with her since the start of Memphis Tacos.

“All my employees are Mexican, so they know what good Mexican food tastes like,” she noted.

Claudia and her team worked hard to create a menu that was the perfect fit for their customers. Some people like spicy food and others don’t, so they created a thoughtful menu.

“We can’t make it super spicy, so we have to kind of get it in the middle.”

Beyond just flavors, Claudia wanted a menu that catered to her customers. Her customers are primarily UTHSC staff, students, and patients. She wanted them to be able to, “come in, get a nice, healthy, freshly made meal that’s made to order and promptly.”

She emphasized the freshly made aspect of her food by saying, “We don’t get things that are already made. That’s not how Mexican food is.”

Memphis Tacos also cater for all sorts of events from birthday parties to corporate events. While she offers the same menu offered at the restaurant, she said, “If it’s catering and they want specific specialties, we could also come up with that.”

Feedback and the Future 

As a two-time business owner, it should come as no surprise that Claudia knows what it takes to succeed—customer service.

“It’s all about customer service. It’s all about giving the clients what they want, and we’re good at that.”

Claudia discussed that when she first opened Memphis Tacos, customers kept asking for queso. Queso is not an authentic Mexican dish. Despite this, she added queso to the menu.

Claudia elaborated on her success by saying, “I’ll have you know, you’re only as good of a of a business as your employees and I have great—I have awesome employees.”

Claudia and Memphis Tacos have gotten great feedback so far.

“We’ve had really good feedback from our customers, and we want to grow,” she explained.

Memphis Tacos is made up of a great team.
Memphis Tacos is made up of a great team.

She has aspirations of growing Memphis Tacos by opening a food truck. With a food truck she could be more mobile and share Mexican food at festivals and events.

Final Thoughts

Memphis Tacos are 100% who they say they are—an authentic Mexican restaurant. Their food options are true to who they are. Their mouthwatering tacos are delicious on their own, but add a little bit of their house made salsa, and you’ve created an incredible taco to fill you up. And to top off your lunch, grab a churro to curb your sweet tooth.

Memphis Tacos is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the UTHSC food court 910 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38103. They also offer catering that goes beyond their regular hours.

Despite being born in Mexico and growing up in California, Claudia is a Memphian and wants to bring a crucial part of her to the city.

“I never thought I’d say I’m a Memphian, but I’m a Memphian. I’ve been here now for 13 years. I love this city. This city has been great to me and my family.”

Memphis Tacos gets 5 Forks up for Giving it a Chance and Succeeding

 

Get to know the Chairman’s Circle: Jason Neal

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Any time the Grizzlies play the Lakers at FedEx Forum, Grizzlies fans are reminded of the loyalty of Lakers fans when the purple and gold Lakers colors seem to be on jerseys and T-shirts throughout the arena. Jason Neal used to be a Lakers fan. But he’s now a Grizzlies fan. That alone is a win for Memphis.

Even more important than that is the power equipment manufacturing facility in Memphis under the leadership of Jason Neal. Jason is president of Hyosung HICO and senior EVP of HICO America. HICO is a top supplier of power transformers and shunt reactors, high-voltage and medium-voltage switchgear, FACTS solutions and battery energy storage across the country.

Jason was born and raised in Pittsburgh. He joined HICO in 2001 and became president of the Memphis transformer manufacturing operation in October 2022. He still leads the business side of HICO from the company’s office in Pittsburgh, so he splits his time between there and Memphis.

“I spend significant time in Memphis and have grown to appreciate the area and the people from Memphis as well!” he said. “You notice the hospitality of Memphians right away, from the airport and even the rental car agencies to the hotels and restaurants. At every stage you are made to feel welcome. I am still learning about Memphis barbecue, sampling many of the restaurants and learning everyone’s favorite spots. And while I grew up as a showtime Lakers fan in the 1980s, I quickly changed my allegiance to the Grizzlies!”

Before joining HICO, Jason worked in corporate engineering for the Bayer Corporation and as an M&A consultant for IBM. Early in his career at HICO, he worked in sales and marketing. “Like Bayer, IBM was a great experience,” said Jason. “I learned about the opportunity at HICO, the opportunity to join the launch of the North American arm of a successful global company in Hyosung Heavy Industries. I became one of its first employees in the U.S. It was very exciting to enter our company at that time.”

Jason was a very good student. He earned his bachelor’s degree summa cum laude – the highest level of honor – in engineering physics from John Carroll University, specializing in electrical engineering through cross studies at Case Western Reserve University. He also earned a master’s in electrical engineering from Penn State University.

HICO is a leader as a domestic producer of large power transformers, and Jason has been a key part of expanding HICO’s presence in North America. HICO has more than 400 employees in Memphis and more than 120 employees in Pittsburgh, in addition to employees across the U.S. and Canada. HICO is working to expand its capacity in Memphis and plans to manufacture other solutions the company offers.

So why did a company with a world-class facility in South Korea choose to build a manufacturing facility in Memphis?

“Many of us at HICO have been at our company a long time, and it was a key vision to establish a manufacturing operation in the U.S.,” said Jason. “For many years we imported equipment and solutions from South Korea. That is a world-class facility, but our partners in the U.S. wanted operations in America. In 2017 we decided to build a factory in the U.S., and a facility in Memphis became available. We acquired it on Valentine’s Day 2020. It was a milestone for our business in the U.S., truly a dream come true for all of us.

“Memphis is a perfect location, central to our customers across the U.S. The rail and over-the-road access to transportation in Memphis is unmatched. But most of all we are blessed with the talented employees we have at our plant, the leaders and managers we have in Memphis, the quality of the work of our team and the products we produce day after day.”

The company doesn’t just manufacture in Memphis – employees are also active supporters of the community. Hyosong HICO supports the St. Jude Memphis Marathon and Concord Academy. The company works with the Chamber to engage with schools, including hosting a Manufacturing Day at the plant earlier this month. They hire interns from colleges in Memphis and across the country.

What excites Jason most about Memphis? “It’s a great location for our business, but most importantly, it is the people in Memphis. The quality of the education and the welcoming atmosphere in the community translate into our operation in Memphis. We have grown from 120 employees to more than 400 today, with plans to expand to more than 600 in the coming years. HICO is a great atmosphere to learn and work. We have a solid business model that gives all employees a voice to contribute to the direction of our company. We share together in our successes, and we face challenges together and overcome them.

“It is also organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Chairman’s Circle in particular that give our company the opportunity to contribute to growth in Memphis. Our acquisition of the Memphis plant remains the single most important decision our company has made in the U.S. Our growth in Memphis is contributing to the success and expansion not only of our company, but also the industry overall.”

Jason and his wife Melanie just celebrated their 25th anniversary. They have two children, Sarah and Samuel, who both attend the University of Dayton.

Jason’s parents instilled a strong work ethic, and “the example of their relationship influenced my life in many ways. My father spent his entire career in the utility industry. When I entered college, I saw the utility industry as a little static, maybe not as exciting…. But I was wrong! My decision to join this industry in 2001 was the best decision

I made. We have become the ‘cool industry.’ We are at the forefront of technology development.”

Jason enjoys golf, vacationing near the ocean with his family and playing basketball and sand volleyball. Because of all the time spent watching with his kids, he can spout lots of quotes from the movie Cars. But his favorite movie is Shawshank Redemption, because he said it shows the importance of relationships and the ability to work together to overcome obstacles.

Asked if he had anything else to add, he said, “We’ve been a proud member of the Chairman’s Circle since 2022. We look forward to more opportunities to support the Chamber and to engage with other companies in the area. We are especially proud to be here in Memphis!”

THE GREATER PLATE: Authentic Arturo

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Arturo Azcarate wasn’t originally a chef, but it was always part of the plan to open a restaurant. Arturo is the owner and founder of Curry N Jerk, an authentic Caribbean restaurant. But his restaurant isn’t just about him. It’s about his mom, the community, and food he loves.

“I wanted to honor her,” he said.

A portrait of a woman hanging on a wall
Hanging on the wall of Curry N Jerk is a portrait of the woman who inspired it all, Arturo’s mother.

Starting a Restaurant

Arturo opened Curry N Jerk in 2018 after making a childhood promise to his mother. He explained that growing up, his mother was a civilian chef at the military mess hall.

This was not an overnight dream for Arturo. Two years before retiring, he began slowly planning out the restaurant. When traveling, he would make note of things he saw, food he tasted, and what he experienced all to create his ideal restaurant, Curry N Jerk.

However, prior to opening Curry N Jerk, Arturo had no prior restaurant experience. In fact, he barely had a dining room to host guests, nor was he properly staffed. The only relevant experience was the time he spent with his mother at the military mess hall. He chuckled, “my mom fired me then.”

Then comes opening day.

“I didn’t know which way it was going to go…” he said. “We didn’t know what we had got ourselves into.”

By the end of opening day, he had “460-something” customers eat at Curry N Jerk.

Four months later tragedy strikes. There was a fire at the restaurant. Despite the setback, Arturo did not let that stop him. He took this time to finetune the menu and make Curry N Jerk come back better than before. And he did just that. Upon reopening, the restaurant had a similar turnout.

“That told me that we got a chance here,” he explained.

In 2023, Curry N Jerk moved down the street to a bigger building so they could expand their capacity and continue with great food and great service.

Authenticity, Consistency and Respect

There are so many factors that go into creating a restaurant that people love and want to come back to. Good food, of course, is a must. But it goes beyond that. Arturo even says that people don’t want to go back to restaurants that have good food but bad service. This explains some of the core values of Curry N Jerk—authenticity, consistency, and respect.

“I just wanted to bring attention to our home, culture, and also bring people together,” explained Arturo.

When customers walk through the doors at Curry N Jerk, they frequently become a repeat customer. So much so, Arturo has modified his menu and named items after his customers.

“They [returning customers] have been part of growing my menu to meet their needs because I know that they support every day that they can,”

Why these customers keep coming back boils down to two things 1) the food, and 2) the people. And that starts with the owner and his staff

“The most important thing to me is greeting people with respect,” Arturo said.

When a person walks through the door, he expects his staff to greet them with respect.

“I think we can count on our food, we can count on a lot of things, but I think that people need to be greeted because you never know what someone’s going through when they walk through the door,”

It is this environment that fosters authenticity and care paired with solid food that brings people back. Arturo has several customers that have been with them since the beginning.

“Watch this,” Arturo said. “Teresa, what does Ron get on his food?”  he shouts across the restaurant. Teresa, one of Arturo’s team members, begins to spout off Ron’s order and every substitution that may be necessary when Ron places an order.

“I’m an owner that’s engaged, with my customers,” he explained. “I want to know who they are. I also want to know what they like and what can we improve on.”

This authentic environment full of respect even trickles down to the customers themselves.

“You see customers talking to each other, sharing with each other,” Arturo confesses.

Food You Can Count On

Authentic Caribbean food. The Island Meat Flight
Curry N Jerk’s Island Meat flight has (from left to right) Curry Chicken, Curry Goat, Oxtail, and Jerk Chicken.

“I always felt like our food brought people together,” Arturo starts. “I just noticed every time I brought someone to my home it [the food] was different for them and they loved it.”

The menu at Curry N Jerk is comprehensive yet authentic.

“It’s Caribbean food, but I represent the country I’m from, which is Panama.”

Classic Caribbean food on the menu includes: jerk chicken, oxtail, plantains, rice & peas, and so much more. They even have Rum Punch.

 Anything you get at Curry N Jerk is guaranteed to be flavorful. The spice from the jerk chicken dipped in their house made jerk sauce creates the perfect combination of sweet and spicy.  The oxtail is divine. The tender meat is juicy and just falls off the bone.

Arturo has high standards for his food. For him this food isn’t just food. When choosing his menu, it was personal.

“I just went with the soul… what we would consider soul food.”

While it is all Caribbean food and he does include Jamaican food, Arturo really tries to emphasize his roots and focus on Panamanian flavors.

“If you go to Panama, it’s a Latin culture mixed with the West Indies culture. You just build your flavors and your balance off of that,” he begins. “Jamaica, they have a different spice level than we have, but similar style of cooking.”

For people who have never had this kind of cooking and have never been to Curry N Jerk, Arturo recommends bringing your friends and getting some dishes to split.

“I think people need to do more shareables, learn which one you kind of like, and then from there build out your entrée.”

Curry N Jerk has two unique flights—a seafood flight and a meat flight. These options are perfect for people looking to taste the variety that comes with Caribbean food. Let’s say you try the flight and are having trouble deciding which chicken you want. Curry or Jerk? No worries. They’ve got a combo where you can have both curry and jerk.

Features and Final Thoughts

There’s more than meets the eye at Curry N Jerk. If you peer downstairs, there is a whole world to continue to immerse you into the culture and enjoy being social. Downstairs is what they call the 507 Lux Lounge. Azcarte created this lounge as a place to invite people to continue the conversation past their dining experience. They have social hours with cocktail specials, and often times there is a live band.

The stage at the 507 Lux Lounge at Curry N Jerk.
The stage at the 507 Lux Lounge at Curry N Jerk.

Another unique feature at Curry N Jerk is their new Healthy Hearts Catering and Meal Prep. After struggling with heart problems, Arturo found a new desire to change up his eating yet maintain delicious and flavor-packed food.

Curry N Jerk has food many of us have never had the pleasure of enjoying. Arturo described experiences of a few customers who have never been to the Caribbean and never had Jamaican or Panamanian food until they visited Curry N Jerk. He explained that these customers were inspired to go to Panama or Jamacia, but often come back and tell Arturo, ‘I told them they need to come to Curry N Jerk.’ That’s because Curry N Jerk is authentic in every sense of the word—from the food to the way they interact with the people around them.

Curry N Jerk is located at 150 Monroe Ave Memphis, TN 38103. You can visit them Tuesday-Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 10 p.m. Or Fridays and Saturdays from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. They have happy hour Tuesday-Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. To view their menu, learn more about the restaurant, lounge or Healthy Hearts Catering and Meal Planning, visit their website. www.currynjerk.com

Curry N Jerk gets 5 forks up for authenticity.

RECONEXT EXPANDS INTO THE DIGITAL DELTA

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Memphis is company’s first location in the state of Tennessee, creating over 200 new jobs

 

MEMPHIS, TN – Reconext, a global aftermarket electronics company, announced it will invest more than $9 million to expand its operations and establish its first location in the state of Tennessee. The Texas-based company expects to create over 200 new jobs, including engineering, administrative and production positions, that will increase the company’s ability to support its client base across the Southeast. Reconext will be located in southeast Memphis and fully operational by early 2025.

“We are pleased to welcome Reconext to the Digital Delta, where innovation and technology come together,” said Ted Townsend, President and CEO of the Greater Memphis Chamber. “From Memphis, 95% of global consumers can be reached by air within 72 hours. By choosing Memphis for their expansion, Reconext is leveraging our city’s exceptional logistics network to enhance their customer support. With the addition of our diverse IT talent, we anticipate significant success for Reconext in Memphis.”

Reconext is a leading global provider serving its customers by delivering customized supply chain solutions that meet their financial and sustainability objectives. Its lifecycle services optimize the value of used devices through innovative engineering, product renewal & remarketing. Its focus on reuse of electronics aligns with the principles of the circular economy. The company is committed to improving the environment as well as the communities where they are established.

“We thank the Greater Memphis Chamber for their assistance in our decision to locate and be part of the Memphis community,” said Dan Perez, CEO of Reconext. “We are excited by the critical resources and geographic advantages that the Memphis area enables us to offer our expanding customer base and look forward to being an active member of the Memphis area business community.”

-MEMPHIS-

About Reconext

Reconext, a leading provider of aftermarket lifecycle services for electronics, serves leading manufacturers, operators, retailers, insurers, data centers and large corporations. Markets served include consumer electronics, customer premises equipment, enterprise network & data storage, IoT, mobile and point of sale equipment. Reconext’s end-to-end aftermarket lifecycle services include returns management & fulfillment, testing & grading, repair & refurbishment, asset recovery and trade-in & buy-back. For more information, please visit www.reconext.com.

About The Greater Memphis Chamber

One of Memphis’ oldest institutions, dating back to 1838, the Greater Memphis Chamber is a privately funded nonprofit that serves as the region’s lead economic development organization and the “Voice of Memphis Business” on local, state, and national issues. The Chamber’s mission is to drive the Memphis business agenda for Greater Memphis. We do this by relentlessly pursuing prosperity for all — through economic and workforce development, pro-growth advocacy, and by providing support and resources to its investors, which include many of the region’s largest employers. For more information, please visit www.memphischamber.com.

Media Contact:

Amy Daniels
901-569-4796
adaniels@memphischamber.com

THE GREATER PLATE: Something for Everyone at Majestic Grille

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Editor’s Note: Welcome to The Greater Plate! This is a series for our GREATER blog where we feature some of the fantastic restaurant offerings in the Greater Memphis area. My hope is that you will discover (or maybe even rediscover) a restaurant in town where you can meet new people and experience one of the crucial elements that makes Memphis greater—good food. Join me, Taylor Ann Carpenter, on this journey and find a restaurant for every one of life’s cravings.

 

If you walked down Main Street in the 1910s, and 20s you’d see a block full of theaters. Silent films were all the rage. It was a popular pastime for Memphians. As technology advanced so did the film industry. As our world continued to evolve so did downtown Memphis. Though we may not go downtown to watch a silent film, the legacy of the silent film era remains in a handful of buildings like the Majestic Grille.

Six months after getting married, Patrick and Deni Reilly opened the doors of the Majestic Grille. Now almost twenty years later, it remains a key player in Memphis dining.

“We really wanted it to be a neighborhood place,” said Deni.

Who Are the Reillys

Husband and wife, Patrick and Deni Reilly
Patrick and Deni Reilly owners of the Majestic Grille.

Patrick Reilly is originally from Ireland and went to culinary school in Dublin. Throughout his career he worked at a Michelin star restaurant in London, worked in restaurants in several major U.S. cities but landed in Memphis when he was originally set to work on a restaurant in Nashville.

Deni is originally from New Jersey. She worked in the hospitality and event planning industry. After her employer merged with a Memphis company in the late 90s, Deni decided to follow them to the city.

The two connected through music and the rest was history.

“I just came here, and I just fell in love with the city and fell in love with her,” said Patrick.

How Majestic Got Its Start

The Majestic Grille’s restaurant concept pays tribute to its namesake, Majestic Theatre No. 1, and is housed in the very same building. When the downtown landscape began to evolve, many of the theater buildings were torn down and rebuilt.

However, due to its size, Majestic No. 1 Theater was prime real estate and could easily be converted into other businesses. The 145 South Main Street building was everything from a theater to a retail store, and now a restaurant.

When creating the restaurant, the couple wanted to, as Deni put it, “honor the building.”

Patrick added, “You want to have a story to tell, and there was a great story here.”

The front of the building was restored to the original façade and much of the interior is the same as the theater. Upon entering the building, the walls are lined with stills from some of the original pictures played in the theater and pictures from Majestic No. 1 back in the 1910s. A screen playing silent films and classic movies hangs high above the ground.

Something for Everyone

A meal at the Majestic Grille is met with good food and good people.

“We have the pillars upon which our business is built and they’re of equal importance,” Patrick explained, “They’re our customers, our employees, our vendors and our investors.”

And the driving force behind these pillars is integrity. They understand that they interact with people from all walks of life on a day-to-day basis. For the Reillys it is important for the Majestic to be seen as a cornerstone of Memphis, but they can’t represent Memphis without integrity.

Deni recalled a review someone once gave that has always stuck with her, “It said, ‘Majestic might be the one place that has something for everyone.’”

She continued to describe what that meant to her and said,  “What I love about that is it means that somebody can come in a Grizzlies’ jersey and a baseball cap, sit at the bar, and have a burger and a beer before they go to a game and be just as comfortable as the mayor having a meeting, two tables over.”

Patrick explained that even at the restaurant’s conception, this was the idea.

“I’ve always wanted to have a culture that was very supportive and inclusive.”

And the couple has done just that.

“What we have really tried to do is really try to set an example of, the hospitality industry, restaurants in particular, being a noble place to work. And being a place that you can have a career in and support your family and be proud of what you do and be part of something greater,” said Deni.

Throughout the pandemic they continued to offer healthcare and other resources for employees. When the pandemic was winding down and people were returning to work, the Majestic Grille had 100% of their employees return to the restaurant.

They have employees who have been with them from the start. They’ve seen people come and go, but they have many employees who have stayed with them for most of the restaurant’s life.

 The Reillys pride themselves on the culture they’ve built around the restaurant, but they know it’s not solely dependent on them.

“Together, we all work to create this thing that is the Majestic,” explained Deni.

Consistency and Comfort

brunch plates on a table
The Majestic Grille serves brunch, lunch, and dinner.

“To me, there’s nothing worse than going to a restaurant where I got something before, and it was awesome…Then you get it [again] and you’re like, ‘Oh, this is not what I want,’” said Patrick.

As a chef, Patrick wants to produce work that is good and consistent. Throughout the restaurant’s history, he has workshopped dishes, let guests try them, and ultimately created a menu that customers can count on.

“Consistency is a big part of what we hang our hat on,” said Deni.

The food at the Majestic Grille takes an elevated interpretation of classic dishes. For instance, the grilled cheese is not like your regular grilled cheese but is a hit among customers. Deni even recalled a frequent customer who moved away, and after six years returned to the Majestic Grille saying, “I’ve been thinking about that grilled cheese for six years.”

The delectable grilled cheese consists of aged white cheddar, bacon, tomato, house made creole mustard, and sourdough bread. It satisfies your hunger, yet somehow has you wishing you had a few more bites left to enjoy.

“I wanted to have a really good grilled cheese,” Patrick said. “I wanted to have an entry level, entrée that’s not expensive but really good.”

The Majestic Grille serves brunch, lunch, and dinner. Their menu caters to all different tastebuds. Handmade beignets, classic dishes like oysters, French toast and mimosas populate their brunch menu. For dinner their filet mignons, flatbreads and seared tuna are sure to bring down the house.

Their shareable salmon appetizer comes with homemade focaccia bread crisps creole mustard and house smoked salmon. Patrick made this dish for years, but when he opened the restaurant and “Memphis-ed it up” by adding barbecue spices.

Speaking of spice, the Majestic Grille has a harissa grilled chicken served on rice with toasted chickpeas, spinach, roasted red peppers and harissa butter.

plate of harissa chicken from the Majestic Grille
Harissa Grilled Chicken served on a bed of rice with toasted chickpeas, spinach, roasted red peppers and harissa butter.

Harissa is a chili pepper paste native to Africa. It is jam packed with spices and herbs. For the dish at the Majestic Grille, Patrick perfected his own harissa recipe and used it in the dish creating a flavorful meal with a spicy kick to it.

There are so many meals at the restaurant like the perfectly cooked and seasoned steak that melts in your mouth. Or the variety of their signature flatbreads with ingredients suitable for sharing.

Suffice to say, you can’t go wrong with anything at the Majestic Grille.

Final Thoughts

The Majestic Grille is vital to the Memphis community. You can go into the restaurant knowing what you’ll get—good food, good service and a good time. Whether it’s a night downtown, a quick bite before a game or a business dinner with a client, the Majestic Grille will take good care of you. They are a one-stop shop for holiday dining, rehearsal dinners, business gatherings, catering, take out and more!

You can reach the Majestic Grille by phone at 901.522.8555 or visit them at their location downtown, 145 S Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103. For more information about their menu, private dining, or to order online visit their website www.majesticgrille.com

 

The Majestic Grille gets five forks up for having something for everyone.

Octobers in Memphis: Two Big M’s for Memphis

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The air is crisp. Leaves begin to change colors. There is a certain buzz to the city. That’s because it is October in Memphis. Octobers in Memphis are for Manufacturing and Music. These two industries are crucial to our economy and have made an impact on the world around us, so it’s only right to celebrate them.

“We’re a city of trendsetters,” said Boo Mitchell, Grammy Award winning engineer, producer and composer. Mitchell is also the owner of Royal Studios here in Memphis.

Manufacturing Month

Whether you know it or not Memphis is home to over a dozen manufacturing companies. In fact, Memphis plays a role in the production of some of your favorite products.

Who makes the packaging for Cheetos, Hot Cheetos and even Skittles? Bryce Corporation at their Memphis location. Ice Breaker Mints are made by Hershey’s here, too. Household products like Angle Soft Bath Tissue and Brawny Paper Towels are made by Georgia Pacific in the city, as well.

But it goes even further than that. Transformers are made by Hyosung HICO. International Paper provides boxes for Amazon. And Ace Pumps manufactures aggregation water pumps.

These companies are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to manufacturing in Memphis. To celebrate Manufacturing Month, the Greater Memphis Chamber is hosting a series of manufacturing tours.

“We want to introduce educators and their students to the manufacturing industry through tours,” said Jeanette Jones, Director, Existing Business & Manufacturing Industry Council for the Greater Memphis Chamber.

The Chamber’s research entity, Greater Memphis Economic Research Group (GMERG), shared in their Manufacturing Report, the industry in Memphis is projected to grow 37% in the next 5 years. It is imperative that we educate our youth and show them the many career paths Memphis has to offer. As Jones put it, manufacturing in Memphis is a “viable workforce opportunity.”

The Chamber is working with middle schools, high schools and local education partners to provide a glimpse into what Memphis makes. Throughout the year, there have already been eight tours, but thanks to the many partners opening up their doors, we will be taking eight tours this month alone. That will bring us to a total of sixteen manufacturing tours which surpasses our yearly goal of 12 tours.

Kicking off Manufacturing Month, we are celebrating Manufacturing Day on October 4 with two tours to local manufacturing locations.

Memphis Music Month

Our city is rich with music history. For decades we’ve been known to produce some of the world’s greatest musicians, top songs and historic studios. You may instantly think of music legends like, Elvis Presley, Isacc Hayes, or Johnny Cash; but despite being Home of the Blues and home to these icons, we still produce artists who have made a name for themselves across different genres. Think of Justin Timberlake, Three Six Mafia, The Band Camino or newer artist, GloRilla.

“Memphis music—more than any other place on the planet—has changed the world and impacted culture,” said Mitchell. “It has been the most influential place for music on the planet.”

A recent GMERG industry report said, over a ten-year period the Music and Entertainment Industry grew 63% and is projected to grow another 3% in the next 5 years. The Memphis music scene is thriving and deserves to be recognized.

“Music drives our economy.” Mitchell continued, “There are millions and millions of dollars that come into the city because of… music.”

Jessica Mosley, Director of Community Development helps lead the Entertainment Council. She explained the economic impact by saying, “The Music and Entertainment Industry is the heartbeat of Memphis, driving our economy and culture. It creates jobs, attracts tourism, and showcases our rich heritage, making the city a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation.”

Mempho Presents is hosting their seventh annual Mempho Music Festival October 4-6 at the Radians Amphitheatre at Memphis Botanic Gardens. Each year they bring a line up of unique musicians from a variety of genres.

Headliners for the event include Grammy award winner, Jack White, Trey Anastasio & Classic Tab, and Cody Jinks. The line up doesn’t stop there. The Roots, house band for The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, perform Saturday evening.  In the spirit of celebrating Memphis music, the line includes Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors. Holcomb was raised in Memphis and frequently returns to the city for performances like their annual “Drew and Ellie Holcomb’s Neighborly Christmas.”

“I see further global impact. Our music is still influential, even to the music that’s on the radio today,” Mitchell said.

Get Involved in the Celebrating

Our city has so much to offer beyond what you might think. It is important for our community to celebrate how great Memphis is, which is why you should get in on all the celebrations.

If you are looking to get involved in Manufacturing Month, Jeanette Jones can help you. There are so many ways you can get involved whether it be through sponsorship or opening the doors to your manufacturing facility for students and educators to tour.

Mempho tickets are on sale now.  They offer weekend-long passes, day passes, and VIP passes. For information on the lineup, schedule, or tickets visit their website.

Why I Joined the Chamber: Building Relationships & Talking Business

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Chamber Referral Month is upon us. This is an opportunity for anyone to recommend local businesses they think should join the Chamber. New members are crucial to the success of the Chamber. We need our local businesses to help us continue the growth of the city. But don’t take it from me. Take it from a new member, Antwanette Crutcher.

Antwanette Crutcher is the founder and CEO of Jasper Float Spa & Wellness Center. The wellness center offers a variety of services from a lymphatic massage to an infrared sauna session to float therapy. Crutcher joined the Chamber in March 2024 and just a month later the Chamber organized a ribbon cutting for Jasper Float Spa & Wellness.

“[It] was a fantastic way to introduce my business to the community and generate excitement.”Antwanette Crutcher Headshot

Though she has only been a member for a few months, Crutcher reflected on her time and expressed the impact her membership has already had on her business and career.

Q: How has your membership benefited your business/your career?

A: “The Chamber’s team has been exceptionally supportive and personable, always willing to go the extra mile to help me connect with other members and resources. The Chamber has provided me with invaluable opportunities to network with other business leaders, city officials, and community members… As a Chamber ambassador, I’ve had the privilege of volunteering at various events, which has helped me build relationships and stay informed about local economic trends.”

Q: What are you looking forward to by continuing your membership?

A: “I’m excited to continue my involvement with the Chamber and explore new opportunities for growth and collaboration. I’m particularly interested in learning more about the Chamber’s initiatives to support small businesses and promote economic development in our city.”

Q: Why would you encourage other businesses to join the Chamber?

A: “I would highly encourage other businesses to join the Chamber because it’s a great way to connect with the local business community, gain visibility, and contribute to the economic vitality of our city. The Chamber offers a wide range of resources and networking opportunities that can help businesses succeed. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to give back to the community and support local initiatives.”

As Crutcher mentioned, joining the Chamber has several benefits. But why should you participate in Chamber Referral Month?

A Chance to Win

This year we have a slew of prizes for those who refer a business. For starters, every referral enters you in a chance to win a yearlong Access Level membership for the Greater Memphis Chamber. On top of that there are five prize packages for the most business referrals, the most member conversions, and the most social engagement. Thank you to the many members who provided us with these prizes. Prizes in these packages include: a Ja Morant signed basketball from the Memphis Grizzlies, tickets to any Theatre Memphis show, Nothing Bundt Cake gift certificate, two tickets to the AutoZone Liberty Bowl game, two Southwest Airlines tickets to anywhere in the United State, a Jasper Float Spa & Wellness CEO Spa Package, and so much more!

Flyer for Chamber Referral Month.
Thank you to our members who provided us with these prize packages!

Refer a Business

Referring a business is easy. Think of your friends, family and people in your network who support regional growth through their business. Think of businesses, entrepreneurs and organizations who may be a fit. Scroll through your contacts, get on Facebook or LinkedIn and see who you know.

Next, use our form to submit your referral. Fill out the necessary information. Be sure you have the name of your contact, their number and email address for the business you are referring.

Hit submit and the rest is up to us! The deadline to submit is October 1st at 11:59 p.m. Winners of the prizes will be announced October 31st.

It takes all of us to grow our city. The Greater Memphis Chamber is dedicated to the advancement of our business community and our city. Join us in our efforts and refer a business today!

Outside the Office: Bill Seely

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Bill Seely is the president of Varsity Spirit, the global leader in cheerleading, dance team and band apparel, camps, competitions and yearbook. This year he was named the first Corporate Champion of St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend.

As Corporate Champion, Bill is encouraging other business leaders to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by forming corporate teams to raise money and participate in the weekend’s marathon, half marathon, 10K,

5K or 2-Race Challenge. In addition to raising money for St. Jude, marathon weekend contributes to the local economy and generated $43 million for Memphis’s retail, transportation and hospitality industries in 2023. The St. Jude Memphis Marathon is the largest single-day fundraiser for St. Jude. This year’s marathon will be Dec. 7 and is expected to bring 22,000 runners and walkers to Memphis, along with thousands of volunteers and spectators from around the globe. This year’s goal is to raise $16 million during the marathon weekend.

The St. Jude Memphis Marathon was named one of the top 30 races in the country by Running USA, the only ranked race that allows runners to raise money for a single charity. “It’s the most iconic event you can experience as a Memphian,” said Bill. “We put on a great show. We bring in 20,000-plus runners, plus lots of friends, family members and volunteers. They get to experience downtown. They get to experience Beale Street. They get to experience Memphis. Plus we get to save kids’ lives. That’s pretty amazing.”

Now in its 23rd year, the event has raised more than $140 million and, in 2023 alone, engaged participants from all 50 states and more than 75 countries.

We talked with Bill about why he invests his time outside the office to support this event:

What is the project/organization you are involved with, and what is your role?

This year, I have the honor of being named the first-ever Corporate Champion of St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend. As Corporate Champion, I will be engaging business leaders to become sponsors, start corporate fundraising teams, and bring in new donors to support St. Jude’s lifesaving mission. I will be encouraging fellow business leaders across the country, including our competitors, to create corporate fundraising teams leading up to race weekend.

Why is this worthy of your time?

As Corporate Champion for St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend, I am honored to lead the charge to raise funds and awareness for the kids and families at St. Jude. Supporting St. Jude has always been my passion, and I’m elated to expand our impact by uniting more business leaders behind this mission.

What is the mission of the organization or project?

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, known for its pioneering research and treatments, aims to raise $16 million during the 2024 marathon weekend.

What is your history with this organization?

I have long supported St. Jude individually as a St. Jude Hero and through Varsity Brands programs such as Team Up for St. Jude and Spirited by Varsity.

Why is this project or the work of this organization important to our community?

In addition to raising funds for St. Jude, marathon weekend has generated millions for the Greater Memphis economy.

What is your goal with this involvement?

Since 2011, Varsity Brands has been all-in on supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s incredible mission of treating and defeating childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Thanks to our collective efforts, we’ve raised more than $13 million (and counting!) to help ensure that families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food.

Are you involved with other community organizations? What is your role with those organizations?

In addition to my role as president of Varsity Spirit, I also founded Crosscheck Athletics, one of the largest nonprofit youth sports organizations in the greater Memphis area. I chair the board of the Leadership Empowerment Center in Frayser, sit on the board of Memphis Gridiron Ministries in Binghamton, serve on the board of governors for New Memphis and am in the process of launching a nonprofit specifically designed to drive youth engagement in Memphis.

 

If you’re interested in sharing the story about your community involvement outside the office in the Chairman’s Circle newsletter, email Lisa Lovell.

3 Takeaways from Launch Tennessee’s 3686 Conference

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LaunchTN hosted their 11th annual 3686 Conference on September 9-11. The conference brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts to learn, connect, and discuss the future of technology and innovation. This year the Greater Memphis Chamber had the opportunity to bring a group of small business Chamber members to Nashville, TN.

During this time, our members went to sessions such as “Meet the Mayors” where they heard from the mayors of the four major cities in Tennessee discuss economic development; or “AI for Legacy Industries” where experts discussed how artificial intelligence is providing new opportunities across different industries. Along with learning sessions, there were a plethora of other events including a startup showcase, pitch competition, networking event, and time for one-on-one conversations with other attendees.

There was so much information to glean from at the conference so here are 3 takeaways from the 2024 3686 conference.

  1. Relationship Building is Key in Economic Development.

Who you know is important in every industry, but especially economic development. Panelists at 3686 frequently discussed the importance of knowing people and expanding your network. They referred to it as the “ecosystem” of economic development.

Elizabeth Reid, Consul and Trade Commissioner for the Consulate General of Canada said, “Once you’re in the ecosystem, the ecosystem will carry you forward.”

This means your people know people who might be able to help you in your latest endeavor.3686 pitch competition stage

In that same sessions, “Going Global,” the panelists continued to discuss the ecosystem and how your network can affect your success abroad. Julianne Cox is the Vice President of International Development for Invest Northern Ireland. She explained how part of her role is to connect new businesses with local people such as lawyers and accountants who can help

them navigate the ins and outs of the country.

An event like 3686 is the perfect opportunity to start building those connections of people who know people and are willing to introduce you to those people.

“Great relationships were made, and information flowed from that event,” said Rozell Gray, owner of GXV Global.

Another attendee, Rhonda Lyons, owner of Weeden Financial LLC. said, “I am hoping to contact some of the people I met to gain more insight to help propel my current business.”

Which leads us to our next takeaway…

  1. Stay Persistent.

Imagine this: you are at a business event where you were able to meet with several fellow business owners and people who have the knowledge and resources to help you advance your next project. You exchange a few business cards and enjoy the rest of the event. The next day you reach out to them with an email that says something along the lines of “It was great to meet you. I’d love to further discuss a partnership on this project.” A day goes by—no response. A week goes by—still no word. 2 weeks—nothing. A month—silence. You’re disappointed they never responded to your email, but you moved on in looking for someone else to help with your project.

Where was your mistake? In the follow up.

It is crucial to follow up. In this scenario, you did right by sending the initial email. However, once some time passes with no response, it is nece

ssary to follow up again. Try making a phone call even.

Now say the business deal doesn’t quite work out—the timing wasn’t right. Don’t ditch that contact. Stay in touch! Grab a coffee. Engage with them on social media. Have a conversation with them at the next event.

Patricia McKinney, Director of Small Business and Member Programming at the Chamber said, “Stay persistent when engaging with potential clients—don’t wait for them to call you back!”

"Going Global" session panel at 3686

Persistence doesn’t end with people. Owning a business is hard. You’ll run into challenges. But to be successful, stay persistent.

    1. Tennessee is a Great Place for Entrepreneurs.

Tennessee is a state with so many advantages for business owners and entrepreneurs. Many people recognize Tennessee for its business-friendly climate. From locational advantages to the industry hubs; or tax advantages and a skilled workforce, Tennessee has so many factors that benefit its businesses.

“The resources here are truly empowering for those looking to take their ventures to the next level,” said Larry Robinson, CEO and Founder of Kudzukian and Co-Chair of the Chamber’s Small Business Council.

According to a recent article by CNBC, we are ranked third for economic, seventh for infrastructure and cost of doing business, and eight for workforce allowing Tennessee to rank in the Top 10 for Best States for Business.

Reflecting on experiences like this is crucial to continue to grow your business and career. It is important to take the time to find a few takeaways, but most importantly, apply those takeaways. Knowledge is power, but what is knowledge without action?

GREATER MEMPHIS CHAMBER, MOORE TECHNICAL COLLEGE & THE GOODWILL EXCEL CENTER LAUNCH INNOVATIVE TRAINING COHORT TO EMPOWER FUTURE MANUFACTURING WORKFORCE

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Program funded through TVA Workforce Investment Grant

 

Memphis, TN — September 10, 2024 — The Greater Memphis Chamber, in partnership with Moore Tech and The Goodwill Excel Center, is excited to announce the launch of a new training cohort designed to equip 22 students with the skills and credentials needed for a successful career in manufacturing. The training cohort is made possible through a Workforce Invest grant from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which has recognized the importance of developing a skilled workforce to support the region’s economic growth. This initiative represents a significant step forward in addressing the growing demand for skilled workers in the region’s manufacturing sector.

Beginning this month, 22 dedicated students will embark on an intensive weekend bootcamp training at Moore Tech, where they will work toward earning a NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) credential. This credential serves as a critical entry point into the manufacturing career pathway, opening doors to entry-level positions that start at $20 an hour or more, according to the Greater Memphis Chamber’s Economic Research Group (GMERG).

“Memphis is home to over 44,000 manufacturing professionals, and we’re excited to further expand this sector in the Digital Delta,” stated Ted Townsend, President and CEO of the Greater Memphis Chamber. “Collaborating with partners such as Moore Tech and The Goodwill Excel Center, this initiative will equip local talent to meet employer needs and excel in high-demand careers.”

The Goodwill Excel Center, an adult high school providing traditional diplomas to students 18 and older, will be a key partner in this effort. Students will attend high school classes from Monday to Thursday and dedicate their weekends to NIMS credential training on Fridays and Saturdays. To support their journey, the program will offer daycare services and an “earn to learn” stipend, ensuring that participants can focus on their studies without financial strain.

“This partnership is a game-changer for our students,” said Samantha Dowdy, Director of Career and Workforce Development, of The Goodwill Excel Center. “Not only are they earning their high school diplomas, but they are also gaining the technical skills and industry credentials that will open doors to meaningful careers in manufacturing. Over the course of the year, this grant will allow us to train 60 students, providing them with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly growing field.”

Tony Martini, President and CEO of Memphis Goodwill, added, “Over the past 100 years, Memphis Goodwill has worked hard to follow the organizational mission – to give people with barriers to employment job skills training through the power of work, education, and empowerment. We are excited to collaborate with these community partners to provide adult students educational opportunities to further that mission.”

Moore Tech is excited to be at the forefront of this training initiative. “Our goal is to provide hands-on, industry-relevant training that meets the needs of both our students and local employers,” said Skip Redmond, President of Moore Technical College. “By partnering with the Greater Memphis Chamber and The Goodwill Excel Center, we are helping to build a strong pipeline of skilled workers who are ready to step into well-paying jobs in the manufacturing sector.”

Local manufacturers need a steady flow of skilled workers from this program. “The demand for skilled labor in manufacturing is higher than ever,” said Carlos Manning, Senior Director, Peanut Butter Operations at J.M. Smucker Company, a leading manufacturer in Memphis. “This partnership is crucial for meeting our workforce needs. We’re excited to engage with these students, offer them real-world insights, and potentially welcome them into our team as they complete their training.”

In addition to technical training, students will receive soft skill instruction to prepare them for the workforce. They will also have the unique opportunity to interact with local manufacturers during the cohort and tour manufacturing facilities, gaining first-hand insight into the industry.

This training cohort is made possible through a Workforce Invest grant from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which has recognized the importance of developing a skilled workforce to support the region’s economic growth. “TVA Economic Development is committed to our communities. Workforce Invest allows us to invest in programs that address the specific workforce and education needs at a local level. Each project funded provides needed training to residents while also filling the needs of industry. We are proud to support our local economic development partners,” said John Bradley, Senior Vice
President of Economic Development for TVA.

For more information about this program and how it is shaping the future of the Memphis workforce, please email workforce@memphischamber.com.

-MEMPHIS-

About The Greater Memphis Chamber
One of Memphis’ oldest institutions, dating back to 1838, the Greater Memphis Chamber is a privately funded nonprofit that serves as the region’s lead economic development organization and the “Voice of Memphis Business” on local, state, and national issues. The Chamber’s mission is to drive the Memphis business agenda for Greater Memphis. We do this by relentlessly pursuing prosperity for all — through economic and workforce development, pro-growth advocacy, and by providing support and resources to its investors, which include many of the region’s largest employers. For more information, please visit www.memphischamber.com.

About Moore Technical College
Moore Technical College is a leading institution providing technical education and training to prepare students for successful careers in various industries. With a focus on hands-on learning and strong partnerships with local businesses, Moore Technical College equips students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to meet the demands of today’s workforce, particularly in high-demand sectors like manufacturing, technology, and skilled trades.

About Goodwill Excel Center
The Goodwill Excel Center is an adult high school that offers traditional high school diplomas to students 18 and older. By providing flexible scheduling, individualized support, and a focus on career readiness, the Excel Center empowers individuals to achieve their educational and career goals. Its mission is to remove barriers to education and employment, equipping adults with the tools needed to create meaningful and sustainable career pathways.

About the J.M. Smucker Company of Memphis
The J.M. Smucker Company of Memphis is a part of the larger J.M. Smucker Company, a leading manufacturer of food products. The Memphis facility plays a crucial role in the company’s production, contributing to its well-known portfolio of brands that includes everything from coffee to pet food. The company is committed to delivering high-quality products while supporting its employees and the local community through workforce development, sustainability initiatives, and economic partnerships.

About the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is the nation’s largest public power provider, serving nearly 10 million people across seven states in the Southeast. In addition to delivering reliable and affordable electricity, TVA is deeply committed to supporting economic development, environmental stewardship, and workforce development across the region. Through initiatives like Workforce Invest, TVA partners with local communities to create opportunities for training and education, helping to ensure a skilled workforce that meets the needs of local industries.

Meet the Chairman’s Circle: Barry Alan Yoakum, FAIA

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Next summer Memphis architecture firm archimania will celebrate its 30th anniversary on July 4. One way they’re celebrating early is by becoming a Chairman’s Circle investor. Why? In a letter to Chamber President and CEO Ted Townsend, Barry Alan Yoakum, FAIA and archimania partner and CEO, wrote, “The Chamber has been instrumental in our success. We have been a member, a volunteer, and even the Chamber’s architect… We look forward to meeting with you and your team to discuss how we can be most effective in attracting new capital investment to Memphis.”

Photo of Barry sitting on benchIn addition to reaching a milestone anniversary, archimania has another reason to celebrate. The company has been ranked nationally as high as the eighth best Design Architect from more than 20,000 architectural firms in the United States and is the most AIA award-winning architect in the history of Tennessee. Its work regularly draws national and international architectural attention, placing Memphis at the forefront of design that is relevant outside the traditional centers of design.

Most recently, they created the world’s first two dual-certified Zero Energy and Zero Carbon buildings with certification by the International Living Future Institute. Both are certified LEED Platinum and have received a coveted COTE Top Ten Award, the industry’s best-known award program for sustainable design excellence awarded by The American Institute of Architects Committee on the Environment, launched in 1997 to honor projects that integrate excellence in design with sustainability and performance. That first building, called Civitas, is the Mud Island home of Barry, his wife, Kathy and their son Crews. The second building is archimania’s new office at 663 South Cooper.

archimania was founded in 1995, and it’s a thriving collaboration with 20-something “archimaniacs.”

So, what’s the story behind the unique name?

Founding Partner Todd Walker, FAIA, came up with the name archimania while still in college at Mississippi State University as a commingling of the words “architect” and “maniac.” Both partners sign their names in all lower-case letters. “I’ve signed my name that way since 7th grade,” Barry said. Given the pair’s propensity for lower-case letters, it is natural their company name uses only those smaller letters.

Their work on behalf of their clients has been recognized with more than 300 design awards and has been published in many of the top architectural journals, featured in books and elevated in more business-minded publications such as Fast Company, Metropolis, Wallpaper*, The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.

The company is the Architect of Record and is collaborating with Pritzker prize laureates Herzog & de Meuron of Switzerland as Design Consultant on the new Memphis Art Museum and recently started design on a ground-up College of Veterinary Medicine for Arkansas State University. They’ve completed many projects including the Ford BlueOval Campus training center, The Oasis for FedEx Express, Hattiloo Theatre, Ballet Memphis, Collage Dance, Girls Inc, The University of Memphis Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center, a variety of projects at Regional One Health and Conservation Hall at the Tennessee Governor’s Mansion in Nashville.

Barry takes particular pleasure in the Transplant Institute archimania designed for Methodist and UTHSC. The funder was Laurene Powell Jobs in honor of Steve Jobs’ high-profile liver transplant in Memphis in 2009. “We were the designer for a couple of floors of the new tower, and that part of the project has received multiple AIA awards,” said Barry. Laurene Jobs was quite pleased with the results, Barry said, “For me personally, to work on something that saves lives – that’s a life-extender project, that’s very rewarding.”

Barry’s family moved to Memphis from Knoxville in 1957 and took up residence in a duplex on South Cooper. Coincidently, archimania relocated its offices from South Main to 663 South Cooper in 2019, a renovated building that was constructed in 1957. Barry is a graduate of Sheffield High School and the University of Tennessee School of Architecture.

What most excites him most about Memphis? “It’s really on the rise,” he said. “I’m excited about where we can go.”

Faith plays a big role in Barry’s life. In fact, he met his wife Kathy at church. “We are believers…” he said. Barry loves playing golf, “but it doesn’t rule my life. Golf is not better than architecture. Architecture is my work and my hobby.” His favorite book is Outliers. “It’s a game-changer. I wish I had read it a decade ago,” he said. His favorite movie? 2001: A Space Odyssey. “That was a big deal to me. I was drawn to it. It inspired me for the first time to draw something three-dimensionally,” he said. Barry has four children and seven grandchildren.

Barry has a clear view of what he thinks is important for the continued success of the Greater Memphis region. “It’s education. It’s who helps young people along the way. That early education is important,” he said. And he has personal experience with that. It was his third-grade teacher who inspired him to become an architect. That third-grade teacher was Mrs. Atnip at Goodlett Elementary School. For extra credit she let him build models from milk carton flats (you remember those small milk cartons, right?). Barry built houses – what else?! – for his project. “She told me I’d be a good architect,” he said. “She set my career for me on the spot. What a good teacher says can be most impactful.”

And architecture has been a good career for Barry, indeed.