We don’t blame you if your first thought about Memphis food is barbecue. After all, we are the best at it. But some other classic recipes and bites have come out of our city that may just surprise you. And it’s time to dive into these perhaps lesser-known treats that hail from the 901.

Elvis’s Favorite Sandwich

While a fried peanut butter and banana sandwich may not have been invented here, Elvis Presley himself made it famous and on the menu at Graceland for decades. You can also add bacon and honey, which are some of the King’s other favorite toppings on this hearty sandwich. You can find it at three restaurants in Graceland or look for Elvis-inspired treats around Memphis, like Frost Bake Shop’s Memphis Cream cupcake and Elvis pancakes at Automatic Slim’s.

Barbecue Spaghetti

Spaghetti with a Southern twist all began at a restaurant called Brady and Lil’s, but you may be more familiar with its current name: The Bar-B-Q Shop. A man named Brady Vincent first created the recipe after he and his wife took a trip to NYC, and the rest, as they say, is history. Many copycats have crafted similar barbecue spaghetti dishes, but this one uses a touch of marinara with the barbecue flavor.

Brim’s Snack Foods

Known for their chips, pork rinds, popcorn, and more, Brim’s has been a Memphis staple since 1979. There’s no doubt you’ve seen them down the chip aisle at Kroger, especially with their Memphis-inspired flavors like the BBQ Rib chips and Memphis Mojo chips.

Gus’s Fried Chicken

Okay, this one might not come as a surprise to many of you, but with locations around the country, nothing beats the original here in Memphis. Known for our soul music and soul food, this spicy, hand-battered chicken is served with classic Southern sides like baked beans, fried okra, and slaw. And, of course, your chicken will come on a slice of bread, as is the Gus’s way.

Honorable Mention: Klinke Brothers Ice Cream

If you’ve driven down our highway and seen a massive tub of ice cream, that’s because it used to be home to Klinke Brothers Ice Cream Company, one of the largest suppliers to Baskin-Robbins in recent years. Though it closed in 2022, the family began this ice cream plant nearly a hundred years prior and also made the “Angel Food” brand of products. RIP to a true staple of Memphis, and long may the giant tub reign.