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    The Second Line

    3.8 (443 reviews)
    ModerateCajun/Creole, Bars, Salad
    Open 10:30 am - 10:00 pm

    The Second Line Photos

    THE SECOND LINE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Classy
    Moderate noise
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - The Second Line

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    Reviews With Photos

    Lobster Knuckle Sandwich.  Dayumn
    Adam H.

    If I were to really put the time and effort into understanding and then describing my favorite kinds of places to eat it would tell a story, and that story would likely end up sounding like The Second Line feels to me. I feel like this place embodies the essence of my inner peace somehow. It was born as a overflow bar for Iris from the lore I hear. To me, as I see it, this place became Chef Kelly's escape to reality as far as food, atmosphere, and service are concerned. I think this place presents his personality in his relaxed more chill version. If you have ever been to Iris, specifically, when it was next door, you would understand what I mean. When it was the tiny place it had some kind of pretentiousness to it that just turned me off. I only ate there once. It would take weeks to get a reservation before he moved it and the constant limelight had to be a lot of pressure. This place though.... I could come here three times a week no issue. In fact, I actually wish that I could eat here three days a week. Second Line is moving soon. They are going back to being next door to Iris in the newer Laurelwood location. In some ways I wonder if Chef needs that jovial comfort of a place next to Iris to keep him grounded. I do hope the charm of this is somehow transferred, but looking out the windows into Cooper the last time I was here Dec '25, just will not be a possibility in that shopping center it's headed to. That will be lost. He's a great guy! Hell of a Chef! World class employer! Tremendous philanthropist! A leader in the City of Memphis! Please go support him in the new location. Now.... All that BS and I ain't said shit about the food and why I like this place so much. If you scroll through my photos you will see almost every dish that has ever been on the menu here. Some are fantastic! All are very good! I have had nothing but great food here for many years! I have only had one bad meal here. Catfish Picante and it is long gone it seems! I wrote a long ass draft I never published (thank god), after that visit. I do believe it was my first time here and I almost didn't return. What a waste that would have been. My favorites now are Sweet Heat Oysters, Chicken Livers with pepper jelly, that lobster knuckle sandwich from waaaay back, spinach Madeline, and of course... the Red Beans and Rice. The desserts are always killer as well. I guess I'll catch you at the new place soon! Love you guys!! '25 - Finale

    Sarah P.

    The best cajun food I have had in Memphis. The gumbo had so much flavor. I have ordered it at a lot of other places, and it is always so bland. But not here! The flavor was fantastic. Our server was great. The ambiance was nice and dark. We will definitely be back!

    French fries and BBQ shrimp! I already ate the bread that came with it!
    Christi P.

    We sat at the bar and had drinks and appetizers. We had the spinach Madeline, house cut fries and the BBQ shrimp. We loved everything we ordered. Drinks were good and the service was great too. We will definitely be back!

    Fried Gulf Shrimp Po'Boy
    Amber B.

    Had a good time here for happy hour. The po boys were ok, but the fries and liver were the highlight of the meals. The vibes were good and so were the margaritas. Second line is always a solid place to go to

    Julie G.

    Food was good and the service was excellent and they were busy on a Friday night ... sat in the swamp bar out back and it was awesome

    Half po boy
    Ally H.

    We came at an odd time so the place was dead for lunch. Roe was killing it serving because she was the only person in the place. Food was good, prices are definitely high for what you get. I wouldn't choose to come back but I would definitely come back if someone else picked.

    Semaria S.

    I wanted to try and new spot for our monthly bookclub meeting. I've been meaning to check out this spot for happy hour and decided to see what the brunch Menu had to offer. Parking wasn't too bad as it was Sunday. I opted to park in the nearby garage as it was free. The colorful entry is welcoming. Upon entry I was promptly seated.. Reservation: simple to do via Resy Service: amazing Food: Buttermilk pancakes with blueberry and bacon; this person was huge. I was not expecting the size. Delicious! Cheese grits: first serving was super salty. Immediately corrected issue and the next bowl was so much better. Biscuits and gravy was fantastic. Cocktail: When Life Gives You Lemons: vodka, fresh lemonade and lavender pea flower syrup. I was expecting a sweet flavor however it has just the right amount of tartness. Rating: 5/5

    Spinach Madeleine
    Ajay G.

    The bartenders here are awesome and were very welcoming to me last Sunday! The catfish was tasty! Even though I wish it wasn't farm-raised, the flavor was comforting. The spinach madeleine was good, but had a lot of cream. This place can be casual, but also a nice spot for a special occasion!

    Crawfish etoufee

    Everything was excellent. Even saw Kelly English. We had the bbq shrimp, crawfish etoufee and roast beef poboy. Staff was amazing.

    Steak Night!
    Tippi E.

    The hubby and I were looking for someplace different. We ended up here. We loved the New Orleans vibe. The service was super friendly. The food was delicious. We came on Sunday Steak Night. Surprise! Salad, steak, and a loaded potato. It was all perfect. We finished it off with bread pudding, so yummy. Now all we need is a nap.

    This is a great meal for lunch. Come hungry
    Jason D.

    Always a great day at the second line. I love this place. Have been several times. I wish the weather was like this 4 days a a week! Come out and check it out. Drinks are good and food is wonderful

    Muffuletta (close up, and half upside down)

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    5 years ago

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    2 years ago

    If you love creole food and New Orleans culture The Second restaurant In midtown Memphis is perfect

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    2 years ago

    Good was delicious, Service was excellent. Atmosphere is extremely casual for such delicious food.

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    3 years ago

    Food is amazing Service is always impeccable. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone in search a great dining experience.

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    Page 2 of 12

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    Venice Kitchen - Crawfish Rolls

    Venice Kitchen

    3.8(368 reviews)
    0.1 miBrennan
    $$

    As a truck driver, I've eaten pizza all over the country--from Los Angeles, the Bay Area, Las…read moreVegas, Boston, New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. The Crabby Crawdaddy Pizza at Venice Kitchen is the second-best pizza I've ever had. The only pizza I've had that ranks higher is Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza in Indianapolis. The crab and shrimp are the stars of the show. The pizza came out hot, fresh, and loaded with flavor. If I had one suggestion, I'd add just a touch more seasoning to make it absolutely perfect--but even as it is, it's outstanding. I also tried the soup. It was decent, but it didn't stand out to me, so I probably wouldn't order it again. I ordered takeout, and when I arrived, they were just boxing everything up. I only waited about 3-4 minutes. The staff was friendly, and everything was hot and ready. If you're in Memphis, don't leave without trying the Crabby Crawdaddy Pizza. It's one of the best pizzas I've had anywhere in the country.

    Took my daughter to celebrate her 21st birthday at Venice Kitchen. The food was definitely a bit…read moreoverhyped based on all the TikTok reviews I had seen. My daughter ordered the Pasta Maria and rated it a 6.5/10. I had the Creole Delight and would give it a 6/10. We also tried the Crawfish Rolls, which were hot and fresh, but a little too salty for my taste. I'd rate those a 7.5/10. Overall, it wasn't a bad experience, but it didn't quite live up to the hype for us. If I return, it will definitely be to try the pizza and the Strawberry Lemon Drop that I've heard so much about. Food: 6.5/10 Service: 7/10

    Photos
    Venice Kitchen - Bar

    Bar

    Venice Kitchen - Thai Chicken Salad

    Thai Chicken Salad

    Venice Kitchen - Buffalo chicken pizza

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    Buffalo chicken pizza

    Newk's Eatery

    Newk's Eatery

    3.7(122 reviews)
    1.7 miBrennan
    $$

    Let me begin this review by saying I am Newks biggest fan. Losing so many locations in the Memphis…read morearea was a TRAVESTY. So this review may be biased because I will accept no slander against my favorite restaurant. The portions? Perfect. I am so full from lunch and it was just a choose 2 with a cup or soup (bowl portions people!!!) and half of a chicken salad sandwich. The soup was delicious loaded potato soup and the sandwich was toasted to perfection as usual. The service? We had the nicest man take our order. We began getting drinks and another worker approached us saying our order was going to take a little while longer than expected and she offered us a complimentary cake, brownie, or rice crispy treat. It was such a nice touch considering I didn't even think the wait was any more than usual. Spectacular customer service and recognition. Covid took many things away from us including the famous Newks Salad Condiment Bar. But it is BACK BABY! In all its glory with the liquid sandwich potions, bread and butter pickles, Parmesan cheese, croutons, the works. I love snacking on pickles and croutons while I wait on my meal. Ambience? There's something nostalgic about the inside of a Newks. They haven't modernized the interiors to where you feel uncomfortable. It's a nice comfortable place to sit and have lunch or dinner with a friend you haven't seen in a while, while also providing the convenience of a quick meal if that's what you need. I love that you can self serve yourself drinks, napkins, etc. The Newks special cups are always fun to see the designs. I will continue to make a pit stop here at the last Memphis Newks when I am in the area. Thank you for having a spot with comfort food that I can bring my kids to!

    My current fav is the salad and two pizza deal for $22. I got the Greek salad, on this deal it's…read moreonly 3 salads to choose from Ceasar, Greek or something I can't remember. I got the Greek tonight, artichokes, red onion, cucumbers, tomatoes and Kalama olives. The dressings are so delish, I don't know if made in house or not but I had mine on the side, Greek n Ceasar dressing. My food was as expected and great value.

    Photos
    Newk's Eatery - Dining area

    Dining area

    Newk's Eatery
    Newk's Eatery

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    Rotolo's Craft & Crust

    Rotolo's Craft & Crust

    3.8(154 reviews)
    1.4 miBrennan
    $$

    Cold and noisy dining room packed with families & young kiddos, in and outside, a bustling…read morefranchise that began in Baton Rouge but don't be too put off, hear ye, hear ye! Excellent Draft Beer Menu and ABV choices, you can know why Ma and Pa like it so much wink wink! Round out the menu with wings, pastas, salads, sammies, calzone and 5 Pizza styles, and it fits the bill for everyone, even GF Cauliflower Crust and TVs around walls to catch games and golf if you must, snooze lol. Excellent concept in selection of Pizzas, yes but what type do you ask? They don't make it easy..Detroit 10x8, 10" Deep Dish (NB only 35.made.daily??), Calzones, 13" Classic, GF Cauliflower Crust, and a 18" Chicago Cracker thin--say wh@t? Never heard of this, all more reason to return! All cooked in an Italian stone deck oven 600° not quite the leopard spotting of neopolitans but it's pretty decent having just tried the Detroit Pepperoni and Deep Dish $22 and $28 Deep Dish Big Apple. Oven rendered crispy lil pepperoni cups and a decent crusty cheese edge on the Detroit, and a puffy pillow crust on the Deep Dish. Latter misses the buttery yellow cornmeal firmness of signature Chicago Deep Dishes though, and the puffy dough does get a little dry and more chewy less crisp as you get to the end of your slice and as time outta the oven ticks on. Rotolo's spicy sausage are thin slices not crumbled that I was expecting and sure bang a bite, it's very good. Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad $14 with pesto honey mustard, not too sweet was the most inventive salad that I've never seen before. Gave the pepperoni to my guest and still delish with crispy romaine and grape tomatoes, parm & bright zesty banana peppers. It's huge and enough for 3 of us. Didn't add but Chix was only $3 to add or $5 for fried /grilled shrimp! Hubby's real IPA 4/5* and Wisconsin N/A Untitled Art Juicy IPA $6 were very flavorful. Both a cloudy lemonade color, good hoppy bite, clean finish though the real IPA's is short not lingering, it's better on the NA actually, and prefer over more commonly found Athletic IPA 5/5* Waitress was a young student, attentive and lots of them running around, she did a great job, refills, order, checking in, out. Next time bringing my woolies to tame RC&C's arctic chill and appetite for that Cracker crust stuff haha but sticking with that killer Brussels salad and NA Juicy IPA.

    I enjoyed Rotolos Crafts and Crust. I ordered the bacon Mac and cheese pie with a mocktail. It was…read morereally good.

    Photos
    Rotolo's Craft & Crust - Can't find your server?   Seemed there was a constant team meeting through out our time at Rotolo's.

    Can't find your server? Seemed there was a constant team meeting through out our time at Rotolo's.

    Rotolo's Craft & Crust - Truffle Fries

    Truffle Fries

    Rotolo's Craft & Crust

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    Magnolia & May - Shrimp & Grits  @phidingthefam

    Magnolia & May

    4.1(129 reviews)
    1.1 miEastgate

    Had a wonderful time having lunch with my retired friends. Shoutout to Chastity. She was a very…read morepatient waitress and the only one working I believe. The place looks like a renovated home that is cozy and comfortable. It is decorated nicely with a country charm vibe. I have been here before for dinner and brunch. The food is delicious and quite filling. I ordered the patty melt that included two meat patties, rye bread, Swiss cheese, jalapeño cheese sauce, caramelized onions and mushrooms. It was divine. The bread was toasted just right. I ate half of it and took the delicious other half of my sandwich home. We also tried the pimento cheese too. It was very yummy! Fabulous time was had by all and I will return!

    This Yelp Elite outing was such a good time from start to finish. The fried broccoli was…read moreFIRE--crispy, flavorful, and easily one of my favorite bites of the night. The drinks? FIRE. The atmosphere? FIRE. The vibe? Definitely FIRE! What really made the evening special was the experience. We got to create our own flower bouquets, which was such a fun and unique touch. Great food, beautiful drinks, good energy, and something interactive to enjoy with the other Yelp Elites--it was the perfect combination. Magnolia & May has a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you want to sit back, sip your drink, eat good food, and enjoy yourself. I had an amazing time and would absolutely return. And yes...I'm still thinking about that fried broccoli!

    Photos
    Magnolia & May - Loving the vibes here

    Loving the vibes here

    Magnolia & May - Burger and fries-Tuesday happy hour special

    Burger and fries-Tuesday happy hour special

    Magnolia & May - Outside

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    Outside

    Napa Cafe - Sablefish with wasabi potatoes

    Napa Cafe

    4.2(193 reviews)
    1.1 miBrennan
    $$$

    Perfect night out!…read more I selected Napa Cafe for the ambiance and great food selections. They didn't miss a beat! I had reservations for 7:45 but the seating took a little minute due to large celebrations beforehand. Upon booking, I was unaware of live music on Saturdays so that was a surprise and a great treat. The artist is a well known local musician, he was phenomenal! We ordered the blackened shrimp dumplings and the baked crab dip for starters. The dumplings had an unique savory taste but it had the texture of grounded meat instead which was interesting. However the taste was delicious. I loved how the tomato bacon gravy brought it all together. The complimentary bread went better with the crab dip than the French baguette toast that it came with. Now for the entrees...salmon with black rice, mushrooms, topped with beet emulsion and shrimp and grits! Perfectly seasoned and nice portion. The pictures speak for themselves. Our waiter, I believe named Gary was very attentive, helpful, and courteous. He stated he's a veteran when it came to this restaurant and I can see how. He described everything in details and gave great suggestions. I am looking forward to another visit!

    Had reservations on a Saturday evening in the main dining area and was seated right away. We were a…read moretable away from the musician. He sang (Smokie Robinson sound) and played instruments...very nice. It was dark and had a romantic vibe. Our server was very attentive and courteous. Our table had the crab dip, short ribs, shrimp and grits, chicken and salmon. Everyone enjoyed their food. Our table also ordered a French 75, lemon drop and the Last Word. The Last Word taste like perfume was sprayed in there with the gin...a floral taste. It wasn't too bad that I didn't drink it, but will try another drink the next time. I heard no complaints on the other two drinks. The tables are too close for my liking, but it's not too bad to prevent me from visiting again again. Overall, I'd recommend this place for a date night.

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    Napa Cafe
    Napa Cafe
    Napa Cafe

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    The Second Line - cajun - Updated September 2026

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