Great service (thanks Theo!), GREAT food, great ambiance, and great music. Even the manager was great by telling us the brand name and style of their bar tumblers. ?
March 2024
A great destination! I really enjoyed it and will definitely go back. The atmosphere was great, food and beverages were very good. Service was amazing. Lobster bisque was on point.
March 2024
Excellent food, service, atmosphere!! We are always well pleased when we go to dinner here by a unique experience!!
Up the fire escape above BB Kings Blues Club lies Memphis’ “hidden gem” Itta Bena. Named for the town where legendary BB King was born, Itta Bena embodies the charm and inspiration of fine southern dining. Itta Bena restaurant and bar invites you in for a cool libation and southern cuisine with a Delta twist. From our 16oz. Ribeye to our Shrimp and Grits and decadent desserts, Itta Bena has something for everyone. So come as you are – no jackets required, for great food in a relaxed atmosphere with unrivaled southern hospitality.
Other Information
Parking: Valet
Attire: Dressy
Cuisines: Southern, Soul, Burgers, Barbecue, Family Style, American, Hot Dogs, Steakhouse, Seafood, Cajun & Creole
Alcohol: Full Bar
Best for Downtown Because: Itta Bena is like some secret club, and it's one of our favorite dining experiences in town.
Best for Romantic Dining Because: With it's clubby feel, live, jazzy-bluesy music,and dim lighting, Itta Bena feels like a secret meeting spot for lovers.
Best for Group Friendly Because: Itta Bena takes reservations for groups of all sizes, with those over 15 getting a special contact to ensure a special outing.
Best for Restaurants near FedExForum Because: Itta Bena offers pre-game happy hour drink and appetizer specials for Grizzlies fans.
As with any good speakeasy, Itta Bena hides its entrance from public view. Diners will find it tucked away up the fire escape above B.B. King's Blues Club. Inside, Itta Bena's dim lighting and ceiling of wooden rafters lend the space a hide-away feel, and the atmosphere is classy but casual. The eatery is named for B.B. King's rural Mississippi hometown. The food, prepared by head chef Kevin Quinnell, is Delta-inspired seasonal contemporary cuisine. Dishes such as duck with rice pilaf waffles or Gulf red snapper with andouille hash grace the menu. Start with the fried green tomatoes for a true taste of the South. The wine list includes several fine offerings (all priced at $40-plus per bottle) and more than 20 wines by the glass. Note: One must be able to navigate a formidable flight of stairs to access this establishment.
