Just southeast of bustling downtown Memphis lies Buckingham Farms—a neighborhood best known for its blend of peaceful residential streets and thriving local food scene. Tucked away from the city’s tourist trail, Buckingham Farms delivers big flavors, charming eateries, and hidden gems that locals rave about. Whether you’re a breakfast enthusiast, lunch lover, or dinner explorer, this neighborhood has treats to satisfy any craving. Let’s dig into what makes Buckingham Farms a must-visit on any Memphis food adventure.
Buckingham Farms Restaurant: Farm-to-Table Freshness at Its Best
It’s not a food tour of Buckingham Farms without a stop at its namesake: Buckingham Farms Restaurant. Located at 7720 East Shelby Drive, this stunning spot is more than just a place to eat—it’s a working farm and marketplace, serving up authentic farm-to-table fare.
- Cuisine: Southern-inspired, fresh and seasonal
- Price Range: $$ (entrees average $12–$18)
- Why It’s Special: Every dish highlights ingredients grown on-site. Try their fried chicken sandwich with housemade pickles, or the seasonal Veggie Plate—a veggie lover’s dream. The Sunday brunch features fluffy biscuits and locally sourced eggs, earning rave reviews among locals and visitors alike.
Cozy Cafés and Beautiful Bakeries
Along Shelby Drive and Hacks Cross Road, you’ll find several cozy cafés and bakeries perfect for breakfast meetings or a sweet treat on the go.
Bluff City Coffee & Bakery (Buckingham Farms Branch)
- Location: 7790 Fischer Steel Rd, near Hacks Cross intersection
- Cuisine: Coffee, pastries, light breakfast, gluten-free options
- Price Range: $–$$ (most menu items under $8)
- Don’t Miss: The aromatic cinnamon rolls and bold espresso drinks. Their almond croissants are a neighborhood favorite, and the chill vibe makes it a perfect spot to bring your laptop or catch up with friends.
Brown Sugar Bakeshop
- Location: Pop-up at local markets, frequent weekend visits to Buckingham Farms
- Cuisine: Cupcakes, homestyle cakes, cookies
- Price Range: $ (treats average $3–$5 each)
- Why Locals Love It: Hidden gem alert! This Black-owned bakery delights with moist cakes, creative cupcakes, and gooey blondies. Follow their social media for pop-up times—they often sell out fast.
Food Truck Finds: Street Eats with Southern Soul
Buckingham Farms is famous among Memphis foodies for its lively food truck scene, especially around the corner of Shelby Drive and Hacks Cross Road.
- Memphis Mojo BBQ: Smoked to perfection, their pulled pork sandwiches and loaded BBQ nachos are legendary. Prices range from $8-$12, and portions are generous—bring your appetite!
- Soul Bowlz 901: If you’re craving something on the healthier side, this truck dishes out acai bowls overflowing with fresh fruit, granola, and honey. Vegan and gluten-free friendly, $7–$10 per bowl.
- Spudtacular Food Truck: Specializing in loaded baked potatoes, from classic cheddar-and-bacon to BBQ brisket. Perfect comfort food at $9–$14.
Check social media groups to see when your favorite trucks are rolling in—many post weekly schedules and limited-run specials.
International Flavors: Taste the World Without Leaving the Neighborhood
The Buckingham Farms area is a melting pot of cuisines, thanks to neighbors bringing the best of international fare.
Thanh Mai Vietnamese Cuisine
- Location: 7726 Winchester Rd, a short drive north of the farms
- Cuisine: Vietnamese (pho, banh mi, rice plates)
- Price Range: $–$$ (entrees mostly $9–$15)
- What to Try: The aromatic pho with rare beef, and crispy spring rolls. Friendly staff make newcomers feel right at home.
Sakura Japanese Cuisine
- Location: 7825 Winchester Rd
- Cuisine: Sushi, hibachi, ramen, and bento boxes
- Price Range: $$ (lunch specials from $11, dinner $16+)
- Highlight: The Memphis Roll—a nod to local flavors—and their bento boxes which pack a variety of tastes in one meal.
Mi Tierra Restaurante Mexicano
- Location: 7835 Winchester Rd
- Cuisine: Mexican classics and modern twists
- Price Range: $–$$
- Must-Have: The sizzling fajitas and housemade tamales. Their margarita selection is also among the best in the area.
Southern Comfort and Soul Food Treasures
You can’t talk about Memphis without mentioning Southern comfort food—the kind you crave on a chilly evening or when you need a taste of home.
Alcenia’s (Southwind Location—Just a Quick Drive Away)
- Cuisine: Southern comfort, soul food
- Price Range: $$
- Favorites: Fried catfish, meatloaf with gravy, and homemade hot rolls. Don’t skip the chess pie for dessert.
Granny’s Gourmet
- Location: Pop-up at Buckingham Farmers’ Market
- Cuisine: Home-cooked style, rotating dishes
- Pricing: Budget-friendly plates ($8–$12)
- Why Visit: Rotating “blue plate specials” featuring fried chicken, smothered pork chops, and creamy mac-n-cheese—just like Grandma made.
Buckingham Farmers’ Market: Seasonal Finds and Local Flavors
On weekend mornings along Pinpoint Lane, the Buckingham Farmers’ Market is a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s food culture. Here, farmers and makers sell everything from just-picked berries to craft hot sauces and local honey. Food trucks and pop-up stands offer hot breakfast sandwiches, tamales, and sweet pastries.
- Budget tip: Bring cash for the best deals, and come early for the freshest picks.
Insider Tips and Hidden Gems
- For a quiet weekday breakfast, hit up Buckingham Farms Restaurant just when it opens—no crowds, farm views, and the smell of fresh-baked muffins.
- If you spot the Brown Sugar Bakeshop or Granny’s Gourmet pop-up, don’t walk, run! These hometown favorites often sell out early.
- Many food trucks rotate throughout Memphis, but their loyal following makes Buckingham Farms a frequent stop—follow local food groups online for real-time schedules.
- The area around Shelby Drive and Hacks Cross Road is the unofficial food hub. You’ll find most trucks, cafés, and local restaurants within a few blocks.
The Flavorful Heart of Memphis’ Southeast
Buckingham Farms proves that great food isn’t confined to downtown or Midtown. The neighborhood brings together down-to-earth Southern fare, creative international eats, stellar bakeries, and a lively food truck scene—all in a relaxed community setting. Whether you’re a Memphis local or venturing out from the city for the day, bring your appetite and your curiosity—you just might stumble on your next favorite meal.