Showing out-of-town guests the sights in Memphis? Here are the restaurants you should visit

Wondering what to do this weekend to entertain your out-of-town guests here for the holiday? Take them to see some of Memphis’ most famous destinations. Playing tourist in your own hometown can be fun for them — and you.

While you are out and about, also show them how great the Memphis food scene is.  Here are our recommendations on where to dine when playing tourist in the Bluff City.

Graceland

Don’t be surprised if your guests want to check out the home of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. With more than 500,000 visitors each year, Graceland is one of the five most visited home tours in the United States.

At the holidays, Elvis’ home, as well as the entertainment complex museums, are decked out with Christmas decorations. On the way there, play Elvis’ “Home for the Holidays” album to put everyone in a festive spirit.

For a pre- or post-tour lunch, stop by Uncle Lou’s Fried Chicken (3633 Millbranch Road) for some world-famous “Sweet Spicy Love” fried chicken. This beloved Whitehaven chicken restaurant is just a five-minute drive from Graceland. Owner Lou Martin has been wowing guests with his grandmother’s secret recipe since he opened his doors in 2001.

While there, be sure to add fried okra with Uncle Lou’s “corrupted seasoning” and honey buttered biscuits to your order. You will thank me later.

Sun Studio

Known as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll, Sun Studio is the recording studio where Sam Phillips discovered Elvis. Music legends like B.B. King, Ike Turner, Johnny Cash and Carl Perkins also recorded there. The entertaining tours last about 45 minutes; tickets are purchased at the museum gift shop.

If doing a morning tour, head over to Edge Alley (600 Monroe Ave.) for breakfast or lunch. This neighborhood gem serves innovative fare made from scratch. Dishes like Overnight Oats, Cinnamon Sticky Bread and Avocado Toast are not-to-miss breakfast items. Some of our lunch go-to orders are the Thai Curry Chicken Salad salad, a killer burger made with locally sourced beef and a unique spin on Shrimp & Grits (chef and owner Tim Barker uses pimento cheese grits and a charred tomato sauce).

If you have a late afternoon tour, stop by the High Cotton Brewing Co. taproom (598 Monroe Ave.) for a taste of Memphis’ burgeoning craft beer scene.

National Civil Rights Museum

The National Civil Rights Museum is a must-visit. The moving exhibits at this museum trace the civil rights movement from the 17th century to the present.

Just off the historic South Main Arts District, there are numerous eateries within walking distance.

Breakfast at The Arcade (540 S. Main St.) is a local tradition. Memphis' oldest restaurant, this beloved eatery just celebrated its 100th anniversary. Not only do you feel like you are taking a step back in history, you also get to experience some pretty tasty fare. Try the sweet potato pancakes — they are one of my favorite orders.

SUBSCRIBER EXCLUSIVE:100 years of history and Southern hospitality in Memphis: The Arcade marks milestone anniversary

Central BBQ (147 E. Butler Ave.) offers a taste of the world-famous Memphis barbecue. Start with the barbecue nachos (they have one of our favorite versions) and then get a slab of ribs for your entree. Order your ribs half wet and half dry so your out-of-towners can experience the best of both worlds.

As you wander South Main Street, pop into the new Arrive Memphis hotel lobby (477 S. Main St.) to get a cup of coffee from local roaster Vice & Virtue and a sweet treat from Hustle & Dough Bakery.

Makeda’s Cookies (488 S. Second St.) is worth a visit, too. This little bakery makes some of the best butter cookies you will ever taste. Insider tip: The frozen lemon pie and banana pudding (each made with their butter cookies) will become your favorite versions in town.  

IN THE KITCHEN:Meet the baker behind Makeda's 'butteriffic' homemade butter cookies

The Peabody tree lighting ceremony

Kick-start the Christmas holidays with an annual Memphis tradition. On Nov. 29, the Peabody will host its annual tree lighting ceremony. Free and open to the public, the ceremony, which includes an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, will begin immediately after the 5 p.m. Duck March.

After the festivities, head across the street to Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous (52 S. Second St.) for some of its iconic Memphis dry ribs. The restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner Friday and Saturday.

Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid

If your guests feel like shopping, take them to the one-of-a-kind store: Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid. In addition to shopping, guests can watch the daily fish feedings at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., bowl at Uncle Buck’s Bowling Alley as well as head to the top of the building for one of the best views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline in town. Santa’s Workshop will be open for holiday activities and photos with Santa.

If you go on Saturday, plan your visit around brunch.

Alcenia’s (317 N. Main St.) will host what owner B.J. Chester-Tamayo calls “the greatest brunch ever.” Alcenia’s is known for home-cooked soul food. Brunch includes dishes like salmon croquettes, chicken and waffles, and her famous tomato gravy. Don’t be in a rush: Chester-Tamayo cooks every dish from scratch.

Newcomer to the neighborhood Comeback Coffee (358 N. Main St.) will also host a brunch that Saturday. This locally owned coffee shop was just named one of the best coffee shops in America by Food & Wine magazine. Its holiday brunch will feature classics like biscuits and gravy and hash brown casserole, both with a modern twist.

Jennifer Chandler is the Food & Dining reporter at The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached at jennifer.chandler@commercialappeal.com, and you can follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @cookwjennifer.