The Cost of Dining in Memphis: A Comprehensive Guide

Looking to know how much it would cost to grab a bite in Memphis? The city, known for its rich history and delicious food, has something to suit everyone's budget. Whether you're looking for comfort food like barbeque or more refined dining options, Memphis offers a range of costs.

Is It Expensive To Eat In Memphis?

In Memphis, the cost of meals can vary depending on your choice of cuisine and dining establishment. However, on average, you should spend around $43 daily on food. This estimate is based on previous travelers' spending habits. When you're dining out, an individual meal costs around $17. If you plan to have breakfast, lunch, and dinner, remember that breakfast is usually cheaper than the latter two meals.

For the barbecue lover, a typical regular-sized sandwich with a side dish will set you back about $15 – 16, tax included. If ribs are more to your liking, expect to pay more. If chicken is your preference, a two-piece meal at Gus's or a burger with a side at Huey's will cost about the same as a barbecue sandwich.

Pizza lovers can grab a medium pizza at Memphis Pizza Café for around $18 – 20, and breakfast lovers can start their day at Brother Junipers for about $15 – 18 or at Sunrise for $12 – 15.

Is It Expensive to Drink in Memphis?

Of course, beverages are an essential part of the dining experience, and in Memphis, the costs vary quite a bit. A domestic beer typically costs about $6, with imported beers a little pricier. A glass of wine should cost around $8 – 10. You might find better beer deals at local microbreweries such as Wiseacre, Crosstown Brewery, and Memphis Made.

What About Tax?

Something to note is the local sales tax in Memphis, which stands at 9.75%. A 15% liquor tax is also included in the drink's price. Some restaurants may also add an additional fee for take-out orders.

What About Tipping?

Regarding tipping, the standard is between 15 – 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service received. If you're not satisfied with the service, it's acceptable to tip less.

Considering all the above, the average cost of food in Memphis is about $43 per day. This figure is based on previous visitors' spending habits, and they've observed that an average meal in Memphis costs around $17 per person. Breakfast is cheaper than lunch or dinner, and sit-down restaurants are usually more expensive than fast food or street food outlets.

To get a more accurate idea of the cost, check the various restaurant's websites. Many list their menu and prices; if not, selecting the take-out option often reveals the cost of each dish.

To sum up, dining in Memphis offers a variety of options for different budgets. It's about striking the right balance between cost and food preferences, so go ahead and plan your culinary journey through Memphis.

For reference:

Sales Tax: 9.75%
Liquor Tax: 15% (included in the price of the drink)
Tipping: 15 – 20% (based on service)
Average Food Cost: $43 per day
Average Meal Cost: $17 per person.

This data should help you anticipate your dining costs and better plan your trip to Memphis. Enjoy your stay and the delicious food the city has to offer!