Jim & Samella's Restaurant — Restaurant in Memphis

Have I been living under a rock?! Jim & Samella's had a fifth anniversary celebration dinner and that was the first time I stepped foot in the door.

Talbert is Jim & Samella's grandson and HE CAN COOOOOOK!

On this day, I had one of the best meals I have ever eaten in Memphis!

He began with a salad made with veggies from Knowledge Quest. He pickled the fresh vegetables and then sautéed some of them in brown butter.

His next course was a Soul Roll with collard greens inside a fried egg roll with yam sauce.

We then cleaned off our palates with pineapple sorbet that had small pieces of pineapple inside.

The main course was a choice between chicken or oxtail with dressing.

The vegetables were green beans or Brussels sprouts as well as sweet potatoes.

Dessert was a choice between sweet potato pie, pound cake or bread pudding.

I cannot believe how delicious everything was. My chicken was falling off the bone. Everything was so well seasoned. You will never need salt or pepper in this restaurant.

The restaurant is located in Talbert's grandparents' actual house. The decor is such that you totally feel at home. It's such a delightful experience!!!

What makes this an even better experience is knowing that the restaurant adopted Ida B. Wells Academy to buy school supplies for the kids.

I hear on Sundays, they get so packed that you can't get a seat and they run out of food every Sunday. Someone there said "you have to be posted up by 10:30 to get in."

The restaurant is only open three days out of the week. They have set menus for each day. I will have to try every single one!

This is an INSANELY AMAZING restaurant in the heart of...

I recently visited Jim and Samella’s in Memphis, and it was the highlight of my trip. The restaurant, which had been featured on "Somebody Feed Phil," was the main reason I wanted to come to Memphis, and it did not disappoint. Despite arriving on a day when they were closed for a large catering order, I had to explain to Talbert, the owner, about staying an extra day just to visit his restaurant. After almost pleading with him, he graciously prepared something special for me. This added a unique and personal touch to my experience, making me incredibly grateful for extending my trip to visit. Jim and Samella’s is not just about the food; it’s about the community and the love that goes into every dish. The walls are adorned with pictures of family and portraits that celebrate black cultural heritage, giving you a deep sense of the history and the pride that permeates this place. Talbert shared stories about interpreting his grandma's recipes, ensuring they stay true to her home-cooked style, which was heartwarming to hear. The food is simply unbelievable, with flavors that will make your mouth pop and leave you wanting more. I had the chicken and waffles, and it was an absolute delight. They serve soul food, rich with tradition and flavor. Spending time one-on-one with Talbert, discussing the impact of "Somebody Feed Phil" on his restaurant and hearing about his grandma's recipes, was an unforgettable experience. Don't let the humble setting fool you—Jim and Samella’s is a true gem where great food and a strong sense of community come together. Highly recommended for anyone...

My sister and I were on vacation in Memphis from Florida and heard such great reviews about this restaurant and I just had to try it. However, when we called they were closed for renovations, but that did not stop Mr. Tolbert from stopping his repairs and opening up his restaurant, and I am so glad that he did. Because baby, he served us the best chicken and waffles I have ever tasted and not to mention that homemade syrup.

Sitting at his grandmothers dinner table and listening to the history of how him and his mother serve these southern down home meals made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I must go back so I can experience the full treatment and get me a glass...