Memphis...

I had to take a business trip to Memphis and of course I tried to cram in some personal things too while I was there. No trip to Memphis would be complete without a visit to Graceland.  I got there too late on Monday to take a tour and they were closed on Tuesday --my only free day -- so I just went and walked around the area and took pictures. 

The other thing I made sure to do was eat at a bunch of the great places that have been mentioned on the Food Network.  My first stop was Neely's BBQ.  This is the restaurant of Pat and Gina Neely from the show "Down Home with the Neely's".  The food was great but the actual restaurant was not what I expected. It was dark and they had no souvenirs for sale.  There was a tiny display case that said there were souvenirs for sale but they didn't have anything.  Not even BBQ sauce????? I think they are missing a huge opportunity here.  I was prepared to buy a book, sauce and even a pig or two. 

The next two places I tried were both on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives -- Alcenia's and Leonard's BBQ.  Both were great.  At Alcenia's I got baked tilapia, yams and green beans.  Oh my goodness but it was delicious.  It was the best of all three I have ever had.  Definitely a must for anyone visiting. 

Then I tried Leonard's BBQ and they had a HUGE buffet. So, of course, I had to try everything they were offering.  The BBQ in Memphis is different from Texas.  They have mostly pork in Memphis and the sauce is more vinegary.  The best thing at Leonard's was the fried catfish.  The best ever. 

And of course I had to get my souvenirs.  This keychain is my absolute favorite.  It not only is fuzzy but it also has a small diamond ring on it.  Precious!