With a bird’s eye view overlooking the iconic Beale Street, Itta Bena provides an intimate dining experience with a front row seat to the blues.
Located above B.B. King’s Blues Club, the restaurant’s name pays homage to the small Mississippi town known as the birthplace of the legendary musician. It’s deliciously easy to appreciate how Itta Bena draws on these rich Delta roots with its Southern-tradition inspired dishes.
Dining at Itta Bena is a one-of-a-kind Memphis experience, starting from the moment you make your way to the restaurant. With a speakeasy feel, diners can enter by climbing up the fire-escape above the blues club or through a secret hall from inside. It’s sure to captivate all your senses.
The warm atmosphere envelops guests as they peer out over Beale Street, known as the Home of the Blues. It is a serene spot to swap stories after a day of exploring nearby music landmarks, including the Blues Hall of Fame or the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum. This is an ideal choice for those seeking a premium dining experience in the beating heart of this historic hub.
Vibe
Discreet entrances to Itta Bena emanate a unique feel all their own. The relaxed atmosphere is further heightened when you step inside, surrounded by rich wood floors, vaulted ceilings, and golden-hued chandeliers.
The restaurant’s white tablecloths play off subtle window treatments, while dark wooden accents of the centrally located bar exude a sense of elegance. Yet, this is a come-as-you-are establishment, with no jackets required. Soft ambient lighting, black-and-white photographs dispersed on inner walls and above the bar, exposed brick, and a set of vintage door frames serving as room dividers further enhance the charm.
Quiet yet lively, Itta Bena appeals to evening diners seeking a calm reprieve without venturing far from Beale Street. Nightly live music enriches the space, while thoughtfully designed seating areas are perfect to accommodate romantic diners and larger groups. Additionally, there is ample space at the bar, particularly for walk-ins. Itta Bena is a magical space to top off any Memphis vacation with a touch of smooth sophistication.
Itta Bena: Menu & Drinks
The menu is a blend of contemporary Southern traditions with a modern flair. Signature favorites include the Cajun Abita Shrimp to start your meal. Additional appetizers equally showcase flavors of the South, whether you choose the Bayou Crab Dip or rich pimento cheese with caramelized onion dip.
Dinner entrees expertly transform beloved Southern favorites into elevated culinary delights. Among the favorites is Itta Bena’s jumbo shrimp and grits, featuring smoked gouda Delta Grind grits prepared with shiitake mushrooms, bacon, and white wine. The a la carte 8 oz. center-cut filet mignon is another standout on the menu. Renowned for its tender quality, you can add to the experience with shrimp or lump crab.
Moreover, with family-style sides, your entire party can enjoy a sampling of Southern favorites to complement the main dishes. From oven-baked mac ‘n cheese to sweet potato pecan casserole, this is refined, homestyle comfort. Notably, many of the menu options are also gluten-free.
Cool, creative libations are a further hallmark of Itta Bena. This offers an additional layer of indulgence to the restaurant’s speakeasy vibe. Along with an extensive wine list and selection of local brews, you can quench your cravings with one of their varied signature cocktails. This includes the whiskey-forward Smokin’ Blues or a classic Mississippi Mule with honeysuckle vodka. Meanwhile, you can toast to the speakeasy ambiance with a Southern Prohibition cocktail, featuring Seersucker Southern Style gin, elderflower, soda, and water.
From the moment you climb the secret stairs, to the live music and each delectable bite, Itta Bena is an experience in Southern hospitality. It is a dining treat to add to any Memphis itinerary.
