The Four Way Soul Food Restaurant is a Memphis culinary icon with deep roots in history and community.
Irene and Clint Cleaves had one goal: to serve the best-tasting soul food in Bluff City. With this passion, they opened The Four Way Grill in 1946 and rose to become one of the city's premier family-owned diners.
During the Civil Rights Movement, their tiny corner of heaven became a safe space for all. During this period, the eatery was a gathering spot for support and solidarity. It was one of the few places where Black and white diners ate together.
The Four Way Soul Food Restaurant is in the Soulsville neighborhood, within walking distance of iconic attractions such as the Stax Museum of American Soul Music and the Soulsville USA campus. Such centrality attracted notable figures, including Martin Luther King Jr., Aretha Franklin, studio musicians, and countless others.
When Clint and Irene passed, their granddaughter, Patrice Bates Thompson, stepped in to run the Four Way. She continues their legacy of "serving love on a plate" with delicious dishes and a friendly vibe.
Visit this iconic restaurant to dine where legends have and to taste the best of Memphis.
Vibe
Sometimes, a restaurant's street vibe is all you need to know about the quality of food served. Such is the case with The Four Way Soul Food Restaurant. The unassuming building sports painted brick, a colorful mural on one side, and a large picture window with its name emblazoned on the pane. Such imagery blends with the Soulsville community, reminding guests it has stood the test of time. The exterior reassures that the food, like its look, is as trustworthy, comforting, and savory.
The decor is simple, featuring off-white walls, brick wainscoting, and a drop ceiling. Dotting the walls are photos of iconic figures who have graced the eatery. While impressive, you'll feel at ease knowing all are welcome, whether as a superstar or "the man next door."
The mood is congenial, vibrant, and festive, where strangers strike up conversations and old-timers catch up with each other.
All of these combine to make The Four Way Soul Food Restaurant a must-visit when visiting Memphis.
The Four Way Soul Food Restaurant: Menu & Drinks
Like the restaurant's vibe and decor, the menu is straightforward. You'll discover Southern staples that will satisfy your hunger after exploring the National Civil Rights Museum.
The Daily Entrees reads like a who's who of Southern cuisine, featuring chicken, pork, and a few surprises, such as fried or baked catfish. Combine these with any of the sides, such as greens, pinto beans, and a piece of fresh cornbread, and you have a classic Southern feast.
Here are some other choices:
- Turkey and dressing
- Fish and shrimp plate
- Fried or baked chicken
- Neckbones
- Salmon croquettes
- Country fried steak
- Chicken tenders and fries
The Daily Specials are equally enticing, attracting fans daily.
- Thursday and Saturday: Liver and onions
- Friday: Chopped steak with onions
- Saturday: Smothered or fried pork chop
- Sunday: Fried pork chop sandwich
The Saturday brunch runs from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM, but arrive early, as the place is hopping! A standout is the 4-Way Breakfast with two eggs cooked your way, bacon or turkey sausage, grits or potatoes, and a biscuit or Texas toast.
A crowd favorite is the Fish & Shrimp with Cheesy Grits. This Southern comfort food features a fried catfish filet and four shrimp atop a mound of cheesy grits. As if that's not enough to entice you, bacon bits are the crowning touch.
The drinks include Southern sweet tea, fresh lemonade, soft drinks, and coffee. A popular pick is the Four Way VIP, a tip of the hat to an Arnold Palmer. This favorite combines sweet tea with lemonade for a thirst-quenching beverage after a day at the Blues Hall of Fame Museum.
Whether grabbing lunch before watching The Peabody Ducks or craving an authentic Southern meal, the Four Way will satisfy you.
