MEMPHIS, Tenn — For many, recent trends have made it hard to enjoy all downtown Memphis can offer.
From fear of crime or high prices, several things have taken their toll.
Then comes Downtown Dining Week, a moment where people not only got to take advantage of food specials, but also enjoy a reinvigorated night on the town experience in the Bluff City. In some ways, this year has appeared slower than anticipated, but the chance to celebrate or discover a new establishment brought thousands out over the course of the week.
“We just take it day by day,” said Frankey Anderson, One11 Madison Owner.
Amidst a laugh and mixing a drink, Anderson and his team turned out for the final day of Downtown Dining Week. The Arlington-native started One11 Madison just over a year ago and says this week is huge for visibility of local businesses.
“It makes a lot of people more aware of the location and that we’re here,” Anderson said.
Post-pandemic inflation has taken its toll on restaurants across America. Several businesses have been forced to raise their menu prices to compensate. Coming into September, the USDA estimated a roughly 4% increase compared to the same time last year.
“Most definitely it’s been hard," Anderson said. "Sometimes our customers are upset about the price increase, but we just have to explain to them we have to pay state tax. We have to pay liquor tax.”
This has caused things to slow down. People try to cut down on their unnecessary expenses to combat inflation. For many, this also comes to cutting down how often they eat out.
Adjusted for inflation, restaurants have seen a decrease in sales by 1.3% compared to 2023, according to the National Restaurant Association. For Anderson, this is why customers who show up during Downtown Dining Week mean the world.
“It’s great for the downtown environment," said Cedrick Webster, a downtown customer. "It’s nice to give back to the community and local eateries. We love this spot. It’s so upscale and available.”
“That’s what I enjoy the most," Anderson said. "I want them to come here and feel like they’re at home and they feel welcome.”