Been here a few times, it's always good. They also have a wonderful happy hour. Lots of yummy vegetarian options and great service. I especially enjoy the beet sandwich. read more

The Second Line is easily one of the top spots in the Midtown area located beside it's fine dining counterpart, Restaurant Iris! Both are owned and operated by Memphis cooking royalty, Kelly English. English offers French & New Orleans cooking styles the Mid-South. The Second line is a po'boy haven. My two personal favorites are the White Pasture Oaks (braised beef & Swiss) and the Verno (braised chicken & Swiss). Finally you must try the pimento cheese crawfish and sausage cheese fry appetizer as well as the equally delicious BBQ shrimp appetizer and be sure to use that bit of bread they serve with it by dipping it into the left over BBQ sauce. Prepare yourself for the weekly cravings that will follow and when you're in need of a special, romantic evening be sure to head down to Restaurant Iris! read more

My first experience here a couple years ago was incredible. Dean, our server, was so helpful and explained the menu so well. He made excellent recommendations and made the whole evening a lot of fun. I don't think I've met a person so fit for a job--he's the best server in town! I've had the catfish and shrimp po boys, which were delicious. Large portions, so they can be split. The red beans and rice are, hands down, the BEST I've ever had and I wish I had a pot full of them at my house. The andouille/crawfish/pimento cheese fries are a MUST, but definitely share them because it's a lot of food and a bit heavy. Don't want to get too full before you experience the rest of the food! I really liked all the drinks, too. I think I've had about half of the drinks on their list, and I've enjoyed every one of them. Only con is that they get very, very busy (especially on weekends), so they have a long wait at times. Definitely worth the wait, though. Wish the restaurant was bigger to accommodate all the people who love it! I'm a huge fan and can't wait to go back! read more

This was a hidden gem found near Midtown! Street parking wasn't too bad and definitely worth the experience. Second Line is in a cozy corner home-style setting. There wasn't a wait at lunch and we got a nice spot by the window overlooking the square. There was also a full bar. The Poboys are the way to go. As someone who isn't the biggest seafood fan I was glad to see other options. They bring their bread in from New Orleans and it was out of the this world! I also had the cheese grits which were a nice treat. Best of all, can't beat a $10 lunch special. I will definitely be back again for more lunches and to check out brunch. read more

The Second Line - Poboy and cheese grits - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

I've only done takeout, but their service wasn't that great both times I have ordered from here. Bread pudding is really good, though.

I was hungry, thirsty and tired when our Memphian hosts took us to The Second Line for dinner on a Friday evening. We accepted the 45 minute wait with a stiff upper lip and went to another restaurant for a beer -- being promised a phone call when our table was ready. About 30 minutes later we received the call. We hustled over to The Second Line and were promptly seated. Within moments a cheerful waitress greeted us and took our drink order. The menu is simple and direct. Ditto the wine and beer list. Plenty of unique options. We ordered barbequed shrimp for an appetizer. It appeared in less than 5 minutes with a loaf of Po'boy bread. Spicy perfection. I split a Shrimp Po'Boy and cole slaw with my wife. The Po'Boy was wonderful and tasty. The other people in our dinner party raved about the food. Service was exemplary -- no fewer than four servers brought food, refreshed water, and bussed our table. We were never rushed -- just received great attention. We parked about a block away in a garage. Easy! The Second Line is loud. Not too loud for normal conversation, but don't go there to spill your guts to a friend or break-up with a girlfriend. A "must-try" restaurant in Memphis. read more

Had high hopes for this place; but service was slow and food runners rude. And they auto charged 20% gratuity for our group even though we had to send one meal back. Will not recommend this as a go to spot on Memphis tourism, sorry. read more

My wife and I had dinner at The Second Line to celebrate our anniversary. We arrived early (before 6) and were seated immediately at a great spot by the front window. The server was attentive but didn't hover nor ignore us. I ordered a cup of the chicken and andouille gumbo and the j-dubs reasonably healthy dinner salad. Both were excellent (but I removed the onions from the salad). My wife had the fried mississippi catfish plate, which she enjoyed. Overall, we had a good experience. read more

Love this place, the first time I came on a Tuesday with my boyfriend for a nice quite date late. We were immediately seated and brought waters. We loved our waitress, April is what I believe, she suggested the BBQ shrimp roux for our appetizer, which was so delicious. It doesn't have the typical "BBQ" flavor you might be used to, the sauce was thin but with texture and when you finished your six shrimp you can definitely use the loaf of delicious bread (the same bread they use to make the poboys with) to sop up every bit of that 'BBQ sauce'. Our drinks came shortly after our appetizer, I got the Break the Levee and my bf got the six toed cat, both were very enjoyable, in fact, so much so that we ordered another before our entrees arrived. I got the Catfish Dinner (which was so super hot had to get it to go) and he got the shrimp poboy with the cheese grits. The whole experience was delightful, April, our waitress was super attentive, funny, and made the perfect suggestions based what we told her we liked and didn't like. So super glad we have a little, charming slice of NOLA in our neighborhood, thanks Kelly English! I read more

The Second Line - Fried Oyster Poboy with mac n cheese, so super good! - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

Great great food--the chicken and sausage gumbo was the best I've ever had! But, I need y'all to bring back the enchilada appetizer! Go there, it's great! read more

Great drinks, great food, great service every time. Oh and the patio!! Unique menu and cocktails.

So...loved this place when it was in Oxford, MS. Extremely friendy staff, it closed, cool scene, but they have another location in Memphis. I was was in town so thought I would check it out. Had a Bourbon at the bar and an Appetizer. Funny thing when we got the bill. AND PLEASE CHECK YOURS. The suggested tipping % is incorrect. It listed 20% as 15% in the dollar amount, and 20% as 25%, etc. It's a small thing but an advantage over those that don't do their own math. I believe trying to take advantage of customers. I brought it to the attention of the manager and she seemed unconcerned. It a small thing that all restaurants have seemed to have figured out, but no here? read more

Nola Expatriate visiting one of my children in Memphis. Food was phenomenal and very authentic

The food was fantastic!!!!! The appetizers, entrees, and the dessert were great!!!! No complaints on the food or the wait staff. My only issue was the mosquitos.... I will definitely be back! read more

As a guy from Louisiana, awesome spot! The drinks/wines by the glass are stellar. A fun, brunch New Orleans style spot. Really enjoyed having the option for some Nola cocktails(Sazerac, French 75, Pimm's Cup). Wine list is great. For sure try the pimento cheese fries with the Anne Amie Pinot Gris! read more

The Second Line comes highly recommended! My niece suggested that my husband and I try it and we love it. I've been twice and the food is outstanding. A lot of flavor packed in a modest, unassuming location. The noise level is mid-range and portions are decent. The customer service is above average and cost is reasonable. We're definitely returning. read more

We had the most AMAZING dinner there last weekend. Totally worth the hour wait for a table. The cup of gumbo appetizer was insanely filling, and I had to take my dinner home to eat later (no complaints). It was one of the best gumbos I've ever had. Hubby had the BBQ Shrimp appetizer and it was magnificent. You could taste the love in every. Single. Bite. Main course was blackened catfish - superb. A nice burn on the first bite which quickly diminished. They let us take our affordable cocktails with us out on the front porch while we waited for our table. Overall awesome experience. read more

I have been to the Second Line twice and enjoyed both meals, but the second meal was one of the best I've ever had. My companion and I began with the French 75 cocktail - a delicious blend of champagne and gin. We split the sausage and pimiento cheese french fries as an appetizer. As my entree I selected the Chicken PoBoy with the cole slaw as my side selection. So good! Chicken fried exactly right with just the right blend of condiments sandwiched in french bread that is the right amount of soft and crusty. The Slaw had something chinese about it - like it had a sesame oil or something in. Whatever it was, was delicious. I was unable to finish all of the food and enjoyed it all again the next day for lunch! Can't wait to go back. read more

I was looking for a spot to watch the NBA finals game tonight and this spot ended up being a perfect choice. Bar was about half full, but there were couple spots right in front of one of their several TVs. Restaurant vibe is casual but also upscale. I opted for the bartender's recommendation: The Johnny Snack Po Boy (hot ham, beef debris, Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo). First bite and I thought "wow this is delicious". My only complaint: I asked for no pickles or mayo, but my order came out with mayo anyway. It may have made the sandwich better though to be honest so I wasn't going to send it back or anything like that. I guess there is a reason that Chef Kelly serves it that way. For my side order I chose red beans and rice. They were solid; there are probably better choices. I would've chosen French fries if I had not eaten fries for lunch (they looked delicious). The reasons I give the place 4 stars instead of 5 are: the beer selection is limited (cocktail list looked on-point) and my sandwich came with mayo even though I requested no mayo. Would definitely come back to this place on a regular basis and I recommend it to anyone looking for a good poboy/Cajun-Creole meal. read more

The Second Line - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

The food and service was great until they brought us out a freezer burnt slice of cake that looked like it was a left over Kroger Birthday Cake. They called it "homemade birthday cake" no thanks. They did however take the charge off of our ticket. read more

I loved the atmosphere here but the food was just mediocre. The catfish was VERY fishy, the shrimp appetizer was tiny and the fries were just okay. I love all things NOLA and thus inspired and really wanted to like this place. It also had a very strange smell inside....almost like a weird mixture of vinegar and beer. We sat outside on the patio on a beautiful day. I would definitely go back again and give it another try but there are plenty of other places to choose from if it is just mediocre again. read more

I'm not sure what the hype is about. Saw this place on one of those food cable show so I bookmarked it to visit when in Memphis. There was only one table of customers when we went in. Should've been an indicator but decided to give it a shot. Ordered for four people but none of which were nothing to write home about. Service was also spotty as I didn't get my beer until 15 minutes later. I'm not sure what's going on but try it at your own risk. read more

Service was great but the food wasn't great at all. It took 25 minuets for out food to get out but it wasn't worth the wait I'm very familiar with New Orleans style cooking and it just wasn't there for me. Maybe I have to try something different but this wasn't what I expected. read more

We love The Second Line, but unfortunately their listed hours here are not accurate. They are no longer open from 11-10 during week days. We found out the hard way that they now open at 4pm. Otherwise, really solid food and I completely recommend trying this place out! read more

We visited The Second Line for a Sunday brunch option and I was not disappointed. Their menu selection was spot on with a southern/creole style that is advertised. The service was quick and the food was delicious! I will definitely visit again when back in town. I'd love to try their dinner menu. read more

I tried this place twice thinking it just might be me the first time 50 or more dollars the second time the same I had a oyster po boy that was horrible fell all apart the oyster crust fell off soaky iceberg lettuce a poor choice of breads for the price, bread was not good shrimp grits instant and were sour the coke fountain was flat never again I can't believe their still open I just gave my money away. read more

One of the best in Memphis! The owner is great and the food is on point! I will be going every Friday from now until I can no longer walk!

The food was fine (if a bit heavy). Our waiter was great, very friendly and helpful. $5 margaritas on Tuesday seem like they should be a deal. The hostess, however, was unapologetically rude. I saw Kelly English wandering around, but he didn't stop by our particular table. I e-mailed management that night and received a phone call the next day that was also not quite an apology. It's been two months since then, and it just isn't at the top of my list of places to go. There are similarly-priced, equally-yummy restaurants within walking distance of this one where I'm welcomed from the moment I walk in. I'll pick those any day over one where the reception is chilly (and that's putting it kindly). read more

This is the most unprofessional establishment I've ever had the displeasure of calling in to. I have a friend in town who wanted to go out for seafood. I looked up this restaurant and was impressed by the reviews. I called in ONCE to verify the time they close. Google says 9. Yelp says 8. A VERY RUDE man picked up the phone and abruptly asked "Who is this!!" I was taken aback and verified if I had called the second line restaurant. He stated I had been calling their business all day. Again, this was the first (and last) time I had ever contacted this business. I was so excited to try this place but will never in my life patronize this place. I called back to speak to a manager or owner and no one would speak to me. Another guy picked up and gave me the name "Steve" for the last guy that answered. No one apologized and were very dismissive of the way I felt after being treated like a lowlife for simply calling this restaurant. read more

I ordered the BBQ shrimp. It was good and spicy and VERY flavorful. I ordered the catfish po boy with cheese grits and a side of fried oysters. I don't like oysters but their friend oysters are fabulous. The catfish was seasoned well but the grits were just okay. The peaches and herb drink and their old fashioned are both really good . The old fashioned is a little sweet for my personal taste but the peaches and herb was refreshing. If you like peach tea, you'll like the peaches and herb. read more

While visiting the Memphis area, my coworker and I decided to try this restaurant. The staff was friendly when we presented an issue with the order we placed. After the order was replaced, we witnessed the bartender come from behind the bar and clean the table near us. The issue with this was the fact that he proceeded to wipe the floor with a towel and then used the same exact towel to wipe the table without any cleaner whatsoever. He then proceeded to set the table. I was horrified and disgusted thinking about what is going on in the kitchen if this is behavior the employees exude directly in front of the customers. I will never return to this establishment ever again. read more

Didn't even get to experience it. On our last day of our honeymoon and we bar hop in Overton square. No one says hello, bar and restaurant smells like old dish water, wait five minutes for a few employees to acknowledge us but still nothing. Was looking forward to this place but left after terrible 5 minutes of workers laughing and drinking with their friends and ignoring us. Shame read more

Some items are better than others but after several trips I'm a bit underwhelmed overall. Service can be a bit spotty but pretty good overall. Actually haven't been in a while because it doesn't seem to call to me anymore. I did have a oyster bread pudding chef English made at a catered event that was really good. Try that if he has it on the menu. read more

Sandwiches were good but fries were pretty bad. No potato at all, only dark burned fried batter. Pretty disappointed; maybe it was a bad batch. However, I will not be returning. read more

This restaurant will not disappoint. Whether it is for a special occasion or just meeting up with friends, you can't go wrong. I always order the BBQ shrimp. Get some extra bread because you will want to sop up that sauce with it. The fried oyster salad is a favorite. The oysters are perfectly fried. The Verno po boy will melt in your mouth and drip down your chin. The service is just right. read more

Big fan of Kelly English and Kimberly Romanow. They have really raised the bar when it comes to food and the dining experience here in Memphis! The poboys (the verno is my fav), spinach madeleine, and horseradish potato salad are so delicious. I've also had the cheese fries... my taste buds were very happy. The only reason I give it 4 stars instead of 5 is because it's always packed!! read more

Terrific bar menu and fun atmosphere make The Second Line a great experience for a very reasonable price point. We shared starters of their famous BBQ shrimp and the marinated crab claws. My entree was the fried oyster platter which came with fancy ass cole slaw and hush puppies and fries. The gulf oysters were fresh and plentiful. The slaw was full of Asian flavors and pickled veg the fries were crispy and hot. The BBQ shrimp had a spicy flavor with lots of Worcestershire sauce and the crab claws while tiny were tasty with the lime citrus marinade. The horseradish in the cocktail sauce was especially hot and yummy with the fried food. Plates were clever mini cookie sheets and our server Jonathan made the night enjoyable. I will return to taste other items such as the famous Poboy sandwiches and the enchiladas. Each entree $12-18 and each starter $7-10 not bad. read more

Even though I have a shellfish allergy, I still had plenty of options for dinner! I went on a Monday night and the place was packed, although we did not have to wait. Our server was friendly, quick, and knowledgable. I had the beef poboy with spinach on the side and it was great! My only complaint is the pricing, it is a trendy restaurant, but $15 for a sandwich is slightly overpriced. Other than that, it was perfect. read more

Excellent food! The bar-b-que shrimp appetizer was TO DIE FOR. Do not miss this! The atmosphere is cozy and quiet. My fried oyster po-boy was perfect! Side order of horseradish potato salad was excellent and big. Good wines and friendly wait staff. We had to valet park as street parking is hard to get. Overall a wonderful experience. Would most definitely return! read more

Amazing fried jambalaya. Great cocktails. The Mississippi catfish plate is to die for! Hotty Toddy & Geaux Saints! Highly recommend The Second Line! read more