Posted by Barbara Southwell on March 25, 2007
Just a couple blocks north from Poplar Avenue in downtown Memphis on the corner of North Main and Commerce is one of Memphis’s best kept secrets, with down home soul food good eatin’. That’s Alcenia’s.
The unpretentious ambiance is comfortable and welcoming. One can find people in suits and people in shorts, people from Washington D.C. and people from New Orleans; and people of all races and creeds who have come together for comfortable food served by comfortable people who have learned how to share that with all who come through the door.
Alcenia’s personal touches and down home welcome atmosphere offers a place where any one from anywhere can find something that appeals to them. That “something” is Alcenia’s grandmother’s love, captured by Alcenia not only in the foods she prepares, but in the good vibes and happy faces that satisfy both body and soul.
Overall: Worth planning a day around
9 out of 13 people found the review helpful. Was it helpful to you?
Reviewers "Must Eats" List
"There is scarcely anything simpler, or more directly satisfying for dessert lovers, than egg custard pie. "
Michael Stern
"Note the festive plate on which the fried chicken is served. Alcenia's dishware and decor are eye-popping, but not so wondrous as to distract anyone from the greatness of the food."
Michael Stern
"In other regions of the country, cabbage is at best boring. In Memphis, at Alcenia's in particular, it is glorious. Spicy, luxurious, and satisfying."
Michael Stern
"The Memphis Commercial Appeal declared Alcenia's bread pudding one of the ten best desserts in the city."
Michael Stern
"A pretty straightforward omelette. Pleasantly un-greasy with the perfect amount of fillings."
cookietin
"These croquettes were perfectly done. Nice and crispy on the outside with just the right meaty texture inside."
cookietin
"The mundane exterior doesn't prepare you for the colorful decor or the interesting food."
buffetbuster
