Amelia Gene's in Memphis
Few months ago, we decided to go to Memphis with the most memorable moments being the visit of the Lorraine Hotel and National Civil Rights museum, as well as Graceland, the songs from the Elvis Presley being part of my childhood. We stayed at the Caption by Hyatt Beale Street and had no idea that a not so little gem was standing next to the hotel: Amanda Gene’s, a restaurant where Chef Nate Henssler crafted a contemporary menu inspired by global cuisines. That place, that used to be William C. Ellis & Sons Ironworks and Machine Shop a century ago is simply stunning, with its high ceiling and details that honor the original owner.
We started off our meal with some drinks, their cocktail menu being quite interesting and not your classic old fashioned or Manhattan. Some had rosemary, some cauliflower brine and truffle, others raspberry. tea leaf. Jodi went for a spirit free (the Green Gene with lime, apple, cucumber and peach champagne rub), while I chose the Shadow Woman made with bourbon, pear (the deciding factor), honey syrup and lemon.
The Green Gene at Amelia Gene's in Memphis
The Shadow Woman at Amelia Gene's in Memphis
We then proceeded to share their buttermilk biscuits, that came with hot honey butter, fruit preserves and pickled vegetables. I think that was a mistake, not because it was not good, to the contrary! They were delicious, crispy on the outside, but because you could not stop eating these large biscuits and we had more food to come…
Buttermilk biscuit at Amelia Gene's in Memphis
Buttermilk biscuits at Amelia Gene's in Memphis
We then got two bites: the first one was a tiny croissant filled with foie gras and with a touch of raspberry gel. Surely one bite, but, what a bite! The buttery and flakey croissant was just a cover for the foie gras filling to explode in my mouth. The second item was their golden potato fondue made with Tete de Moine cheese and black truffle. This looked quite appetizing, with the shavings of cheese sitting on top of the mashed potatoes, calling for a thorough mix that gave a creamy texture to the dish and freed the delicious aroma of the truffle. A must have!
Golden potato fondue at Amelia Gene's in Memphis
Croissant with foie gras bite at Amelia Gene's in Memphis
Next was their cheese: for $26, we got 5 different kinds:
Bloomy breeze: a brie style blend of fresh milk from Jersey and Holstein cows.
Truffle hive: a Utah cheddar with a truffle rind.
Little Mountain: an Alpine-style cheese from Wisconsin.
Shabby Shoe: a Wisconsin version of a popular French goat cheese (Chabichou).
Point Reyes Blue: a Californian blue cheese.
Cheese selection at Amelia Gene's in Memphis
These platter at Amelia Gene's in Memphis
It’s been a long time we have seen a good cheese selection like this, many restaurant serving low quality cheese, just to have a cheese plate on their menu as it looks fancy and is easy to prepare. The selection at Amanda Gene’s was truly amazing.
We also shared the bucatini with saffron and white tomato: was a succulent dish! The pasta was well cooked, al dente, smothered in a delicate sauce that still allowed to shine.
Bucatini with saffron at Amelia Gene's in Memphis
Of course, we could not leave without dessert and opted for the salted caramel creme brûlée with a cherry sauce and whipped white chocolate. Perfectly made, custardy, it was the best way to end a fantastic meal.
Salted caramel creme brûlée at Amelia Gene's in Memphis
Amelia Gene’s was an incredible find: this place proposes a great menu in a stunning decor, and a relaxed atmosphere. I highly recommend it!
Enjoy (I did)!
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Amanda Gene’s - 255 S Front St. Memphis, TN 38103
