Jem is one of those places that just feels good the second you walk in. You can tell right away they're not trying to be overly fancy or pretentious, but somehow it still feels elevated. It's warm, welcoming, and just... real. The food though? That's where it really hits. Everything we had was so thoughtfully put together. Like you can tell there's serious skill in the kitchen, but it's not trying too hard. Every dish just worked. Every bite made you pause for a second like, okay wait... this is really good. Nobody at the table had a miss, which says a lot. And you can feel the energy behind the place. The owners clearly have something special going on. There's a real sense of camaraderie, like this wasn't just a business idea, it was something built out of a genuine connection. That kind of thing shows up in the experience. Even hearing that the employees have benefits? That told me everything I needed to know about how they run this place. It's rare, and it matters. In a city with no shortage of restaurants, Jem really stands out. It's the kind of place you go once and immediately start thinking about when you can go back. Yeah... I get the hype. I'm right there with you. read more

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I had the best solo dining date here! The food was amazing and the service was outstanding. From the moment I walked in, everyone on staff made sure I was well taken care of and the space itself is beautiful and intimate. I ordered off the Downtown Dining Week menu and started with the Kimchi Arancini (highly recommend!). My main entrée was a seared salmon that's not on the menu. They added it as a way to test new dishes and I'm not mad at that at all. I paired it with a featured Tatomer wine, which complemented the salmon perfectly. To end the night, I had the chocolate cake with a glass of milk......the cutest touch. JEM truly exceeded my expectations. I'll definitely be circling back soon! read more

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JEM = Just Enjoy the Moment. JEM is a wonderful addition to the Edge District of Memphis, located between the medical center and downtown. I highly recommend making reservations through the Toast website or by calling them directly. There's a private parking lot shared with Rootstock Wine Merchants and a few other nearby businesses, with about 20 spaces available. It felt classy but still comfortable and unpretentious. Upon entering, the hostess stand is to the left, while the open bar and kitchen are to the right. There are two large tables by the bar that seat six each, and the main dining area is situated beside the open kitchen. FOOD: We attended one of their Sunday Supper events (held on the last Sunday of each month), priced at $49 per person. The menu highlights ingredients sourced from the local farmers market and changes with the seasons. 1. Laab Woonsen (3/5): This reminded me of Thai/Laos laab (also spelled larb or laap), a minced meat salad made with fish sauce, lime juice, fresh herbs (like mint and cilantro), and chili. However, this version used rice noodles with pork and herbs. There was very little fish sauce, so the dish was on the drier side. 2. Seared Steak (5/5): A 4 oz steak cooked to a perfect medium rare. I really enjoyed it, especially since I don't eat steak often. It was served with a panzanella salad and eggplant dip. The salad stood out with its soaked bread, onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers, all dressed in olive oil and vinegar. 3. Chocolate Chip (3/5): A cookie made with both dark and milk chocolate, plus cacao nibs for added crunch. It was fine, but I think it would have been much better if it had been served warm and freshly baked. 4. Peaches and Cream (4/5): A delicious combination of crème anglaise and almond shortcake. We all agreed it would have been a 5/5 if the shortcake had been served warm. Still, the flavors blended beautifully. 5. Coconut Vanilla Rice Pudding (3/5): A chilled dessert with strawberry-rhubarb compote, orange supremes, and crispy crunchies. I liked the mix of textures, but overall it was just okay for me. 6. Labneh Cheesecake (5/5): I'm usually not a fan of cheesecake, but this one was heavenly. The pairing of grapes, thyme, and caramel reduction was excellent. We were lucky to snag the last slice of the night. Our server was attentive and shared her recommendations. She made sure our drinks were always refilled and brought out extra utentils for sharing. Would I return? Yes. They host special events, including wine dinners, wine classes, and the monthly Sunday Supper. read more

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Did the Sunday summer end of the month menu. The inside was very nice and the vibes were calming but fun. Our waitress was kind and attentive. The first course did the summer squash which was very good but wish there was a bit more ricotta in the veggies. I did the steak for the main and it was very flavorful and tender. Cooked just right. The eggplant dip to the side added a nice flavor. For dessert my table got each one to try. The cheesecake was amazing and all of our favorites. The -1 star is because the peach dessert and large cookie although good, were not hot and i felt underwhelmed by that. Overall would go back! read more

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One of the most impressive meals I've had in Memphis in a long time. Memphis doesn't have a ton of restaurants operating at a true fine dining level, and this place absolutely is. Not pretentious, just thoughtful, chef driven food that is executed really well. First, the fresh baked yeast rolls with whipped feta and hibiscus honey were unreal. I also had two cocktails and both were super creative and well balanced. The second one was a bartender recommendation and it was outstanding. I started with a special: matzoh ball soup with a black truffle matzoh ball. Creative, comforting, and a perfect example of how elevated their cooking is without trying too hard. For my entrée I had the schnitzel with spaetzle, and I genuinely don't know anywhere else in Memphis serving that. It is not a German restaurant, but the dish was executed beautifully. The white wine sauce was perfectly balanced and everything on the plate felt intentional and well composed. Dessert completely stole the show. I wasn't even planning to order one, but the coconut mango dessert with kefir lime powder and candied ginger, brûléed on top, was outstanding. Creamy and sweet, then bright and fresh from the lime with little pops of ginger. Seriously memorable. Beautiful space, great service, and the kind of place Memphis needs more of. If you appreciate chef driven cooking, go try it. read more

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JEM is a family-owned restaurant blending modern flavor combinations with precise cookery. The decor is modern. The building has tall ceilings so it feels spacious. They have a parking lot, which is rare for restaurants in this area. The service was polite and casual. We were probably served by five different people throughout the night, including the co-owners. The chef brought the gnocchi to us and, based on how he described it, I could tell he's passionate about the food he creates. We started with the kimchi arancini and the chicken pate. Both were good, but what really stood out to me was the pickled veggies on both plates. I could eat JEM's pickled veggies by the bucket. Next, we had the gnocchi. The pasta itself was one of the better gnocchis I've had in Memphis, though it doesn't beat Acre's. With egg, chile, and garlicky bread crumbs, my girlfriend said the dish reminded her of my egg sandwich. The vidalia soubise offered a creamy richness that enveloped the entire plate, which was contrasted against the light, fluffy gnocchi. The dish was gluttunous and rich. Even though we couldn't finish it, I'd order this again. The meat cookery on the mains was excellent. The pork coppa was only slightly less tender than a marshmallow. I cut through it with my fork and let it melt in my mouth. The buttery redfish was seared perfectly. The garnish on both dishes tasted great, but it was the cookery that stood out to me. The waffle mousse cake dessert came with an interesting story. By volume, it was something like 60% bland cream. The brown sauce smeared on the plate was full of maple flavor, though. And the candied pecans, I could eat by the bucket (like the pickled veggies from earlier in the night). Regarding the drinks, I didn't care for their cocktail specials. Their paper plane, though, is the best I've had. Also, they serve beaujolais by the glass! Our experience totaled $245 for a fantastic meal for two. read more

JEM - Pork coppa, heirloom beans, leeks - Diners Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

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Interesting cocktails and great food. Luke really upped our experience with his knowledge of cocktails. He was experimenting with interesting ice and mixed drink concoctions. He really made it interesting. He also had interesting selections of wine and bubbles. He really likes to kick it up a notch! We will be going back. It is a quiet hidden "JEM"---no puns intended! read more

JEM - Burger! - Diners Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

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The ambiance is really nice here. Open space, low lights, exposed brick, quiet. Service was good. We went around 6 without a reservation, not many people there but it picked up really quick with those who did have reservations, so that may be something to plan ahead of time. I got the Brussels salad. It's plentiful, but the dressing on it was overpowering the dish. I won't get that again. Other person with me got the burger and fries. The bun is a bit much, but the patty and everything else was good. Fries included. Rolls were good, too. The menu could stand to be expanded and maybe a happy hour. I'd go back to sit at the bar and maybe an appetizer, not sure about another sit down dinner. Worth trying though read more

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We had the best time eating dinner here for galentines. They were very accommodating for our large party and had delicious martinis. If you like kale Caesar salads theirs was 10/10 and have not had one as good as theirs. We will be back! Thank y'all for a great experience! read more

What a great experience at JEM! First of all the ambiance is absolutely perfect. Very cozy and welcoming as soon as you walk in. The food was absolutely insane. The Adobo Short Ribs are one of the best things I have ever eaten. What a flavor! The gnocchi and burger were amazing as well. Everything we had was delicious. You can tell how much work and prep goes into each dish as each takes you on a flavor adventure beyond expectation. Lastly, the service was great as our servers were knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. Thank you Josh, Emily, and the rest of JEM! We cannot wait to return! read more

There's a parking lot next door which is nice. When we walked in, it smelled like burnt rubber, apparently there is a garage below them. An air purifier would be nice. The Brussel sprout salad was delicious and light, as was the hamachi crudo. The gnocchi was light and airy but the sauce was a little bland. The matza stuffed chicken was good. read more

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First visit here, and it did not disappoint. The service was great, and the restaurant was cute yet elegant. Started the night with shared plates of they yeast rolls and the hamachi crudo. Then, the main course was the double cheese burger. It was more of a smash burger. Everything was delicious. The challah bun was a bit too big for me in comparison to the burger. I thought I would have room left for dessert, but that burger was bigger than I anticipated. I'll be back for sure. read more

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The food was delicious, the atmosphere was lovely and the staff were attentive. Highly recommend JEM. It is a Gem!

We'd been meaning to try JEM for a while since it's next door to our favorite wine shop. We made reservations for our anniversary and were so impressed. We were greeted by the owners at the host stand; they were incredibly welcoming and excited that we came in. Our waitress was insanely personable and explained the menu in a fantastic way. The food was to die for. I'm not a dessert person but I would order the dessert every time. The vibe was elevated but laid back, making the food approachable. This restaurant rivals some of my DC/NYC favorites, with a Memphis price tag. We'll be back! Soon! read more

JEM - Diners Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

Absolute gem - the food had dynamic and complementary flavor profiles, service was impeccable, and ambiance is great for only having been open for a few weeks. Rootstock wines next door for brown bag! read more

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Great food. Seasoned well and delicious!! Atmosphere is cool and a variety of clientele. Would highly recommend. read more

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This was absolutely a gem! The menu isn't overwhelming but perfect. We celebrated our 34th anniversary there! The atmosphere was filled with kindness n warmth from the staff n the hard working owner, Josh! Our meal choices included the bacon wrapped chicken liver pate, the green goddess salad ( one was big enough for two n the waiter was kind enough to suggest it) , the red fish with a delectable sauce n tender collar greens with a super smooth melt in ur mouth sweet potatoes. We polished it off with the best scratch chocolate on chocolate cake n a very very cold glass of milk yum!! One word.... SCRUMPTIOUS!!! Every morsel! We cleaned our plates. There were also so kind to serve a complimentary glasses of bubbly to celebrate our anniversary!! You must go! A fun fun super clean dining spot. We shall return!!!!!! Thank you Jem for being a gem! read more

Fantastic experience start to finish. The food was extremely well executed (we ordered the Kimchi arancini, gnocchi, and adobo short rib). The servers were friendly and knowledgeable. Restaurant had a chic modern vibe with an open kitchen. If ever back in Memphis again I will absolutely visit again. read more

We had a delightful meal. The service was fantastic and the food was great. I would recommend to anyone looking for a unique experience.

Dined at JEM for the first time. Great experience. Ebony provided attentive service. Lovely cocktail of the day. And the food! I really enjoyed it. Brussels sprout salad was. And trout was perfectly prepared. My husband's burger was delicious. Will return read more

In town for National Bridge tournament and found this delightful place away from the crowds! Our dinner companion had a dietary restriction so our waiter had the chef/owner come talk to her. After a discussion he decided what he would fix for her. She was thrilled with the service and attention. Everything was delicious. Will go back when we visit Memphis again. read more

i am so excited for this restaurant to join the neighborhood. and i love their relationship with rootstock, next door. the staff were all very friendly and the owners/chef have really seemed to put a lot of work into making it so lovely. the restaurant itself is decorated so nicely too. read more

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A wonderful addition to the Memphis foodie scene. Everything is special and lovingly crafted. Great ambiance, wonderful service. Big shout out to Josh and Amy. We had the crudo, the crab and shrimp dip, the kim chi arancini as shared small plates and the shared 3 larger plates. We will be back. We loved everything and have not had a better restaurant experience in a very long time. read more

JEM - Whipped feta. - Diners Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

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Just go and Enjoy the Moment! Food is excellent. The trout and truffle burger are delicious.! The bread pudding is a novel take on bread pudding and does not disappoint read more

Fantastic restaurant with a focus on modern food. The menu draws inspiration from across the world, mixing flavors and techniques not commonly brought together. The hamachi crudo was garnished with both charred okra, a typically southern or West African, and Japanese pickled peppers creating a wonderful and unique flavor. The cocktail list was short , offering 2 alcoholic options and one without. Wine, whiskey, and sake lists were also available; however, the emphasis certainly seemed to be more on the food than the drinks. And that can be seen in how the restaurant is laid out. From the kitchen is separated from the dining food by glass with a low top bar for seating looking directly in. You can see the kitchen from nearly all tables of the restaurant and especially well from the high top bar. The restaurant is set in an old concrete building that's been completely remodeled but still retains some of its old charm, fitting into the rest of the Edge District. It's not exceptionally large but feels spacious because they've left ample space between tables in the dining room instead of packing them as close together as possible. There's also a parking lot next door which was convenient. While enjoying our dinner, we noticed the chefs making some epic looking desserts so we grab a slice of cake to go and it did not disappoint. Our bartender, Nick, was very attentive and took good care of us. Only complaint is that I wish they were located in the south main area. Overall and top notch dining experience and extremely reminiscent of the old Gray Canary restaurant that used to be on in the Old Dominick building. read more

We were passing through Memphis and discovered this "gem" of a restaurant. The food is sublime. There are individual and shared plates, offering an array of options. They are reasonably priced, deliciously prepared, and beautifully presented in a casual, convivial atmosphere. The desserts were a perfect complement to the menu - the chocolate cake is a "not to be missed" must. The service was just what you want - knowledgeable, attentive, and friendly. The chef and proprietor - Josh Mutchnick - has opened a winner! read more