The Four Way in Memphis, Tennessee

The Four Way, a restaurant in South Memphis, was opened by Irene and Clint Cleaves in 1946 and has been a cornerstone of the community ever since. By the 1960s, it had become a gathering place for Civil Rights leaders, Stax musicians, and locals, with its food creating a sense of belonging. The restaurant remains a beloved institution over 75 years later, serving some of the best soul food in the city. The Four Way's soul food is traditional Southern cuisine originating from the African diaspora, with dishes like fried chicken and blackened catfish. The restaurant's meals are a masterclass in balance and restraint, with dishes that sing in harmony. The catfish is tender and herbaceous, while the turnip greens crunch and melt. The cornbread pairs perfectly with the baked pinto beans. The fried chicken is golden and glistening, and the fish and shrimp plates are piled high. The Four Way's rich legacy is showcased in its traditional soul food dishes. The restaurant's unassuming location belies its importance in the cultural history of the city.