In the bustling heart of downtown Memphis, a culinary landmark has been serving up history and hearty meals for over a century. The Arcade Restaurant, now known affectionately as Arcade Memphis, holds the distinguished title of the city’s oldest operating restaurant. Since its doors first opened in 1919, this iconic establishment has become far more than just a place to eat; it is a living, breathing museum of Southern culture and a steadfast guardian of mid-century Americana. Stepping through its doors is like taking a deliberate step back in time, offering a taste of a bygone era that continues to captivate both locals and visitors from around the world.
The story of the Arcade began with a Greek immigrant named Speros Zepatos. His original vision was a modest one-story wooden building where meals were cooked on a simple potbelly stove. As the Roaring Twenties brought prosperity and change, Zepatos dreamed bigger. In 1925, he made the bold decision to demolish the original structure and build the beautiful restaurant that stands today, complete with rental storefronts on either side. This new building was christened The Arcade, a name that would soon become synonymous with Memphis history and charm.
While the restaurant’s roots are in the 1920s, its soul is firmly planted in the 1950s, thanks to a famous patron who helped cement its legendary status. A young Elvis Presley frequently dined here, always choosing the same back corner booth situated conveniently next to an exit. Today, that very booth is preserved as a shrine for fans of the King, who make the pilgrimage to sit where he once did. This connection to rock ‘n’ roll royalty has made the Arcade an essential stop on any Memphis music tour.
The atmosphere inside is a carefully preserved time capsule. Neon signs cast a warm glow over checkered floors, and the retro décor immediately transports you to the middle of the twentieth century. The menu is a celebration of timeless Southern comfort food, from heaping breakfast plates to classic diner fare. Favorites like the Eggs Redneck, featured on the Travel Channel, and their famous sweet potato pancakes have kept generations of customers returning for more, creating a loyal following that spans decades.
Beyond its food and famous patron, the Arcade’s classic interior has caught the eye of Hollywood, appearing in numerous films and television shows. Its authenticity has made it a favorite backdrop for productions like “The Firm,” “Walk the Line,” and “Great Balls of Fire.” This cultural significance earned the restaurant a well-deserved spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Over a century after its founding, the Arcade remains family-owned, a testament to its enduring appeal and its role as a cherished keeper of Memphis stories.
