Fourth Day in Memphis

Okay, so today was my fourth day in Memphis and it was another good one!

I spent most of the day working. Then, at 6 PM I headed downtown to the Happy Mexican restaurant to the South Main Association Meeting.

I went for 2 reasons. First, I'm trying to get a pulse on the city. I want to know what's the same, what's different, and how I feel about it all. How do other people feel? Are people happy about the changes that have been made lately to downtown or are they angry? Do they want to move away?

The second reason was to see Paul's new group speak about safety in downtown Memphis. Unfortunately, Paul and Mike didn't make it. I'm not exactly sure what happened; I'm sure they'll make a future meeting, but I'm sad that I won't get to see them speak.

Instead, Kevin Kane talked about how the South Main area is growing in downtown. By the way, did you know that they recently opened a new American Apparel shop across from E&H? Yes, they did! It's in that old store that used to sell exotic furniture - next to Harry's on G.E. Patterson.

Anyway, the meeting was really nice. It was their biggest ever on record and the place was so packed, they ran out of glasses. Everyone wanted margaritas, so they were having to improvise with wine glasses and all sorts of things. Random people were bartending who completely don't normally work there because it was so busy. It was wild.

At the meeting, I had some tasty appetizers and a glass of wine. I also met the father of the owner of Zanzibar. He moved to Memphis 2 years ago from California and lately, he's been spending time helping his daughter with Zanzibar. I asked if they're open for dinner again and he said that they have been since January. I think they still have Salsa Night there too. I used to love that place when I lived in Memphis, so I think I'll need to try it again.

My favorite part of the entire place was the waiter however with an AMAZING memory. He could remember what every customer had ever eaten, no matter when they'd come in. I went there once a month or less, and he always knew exactly which dishes and drinks I'd tried. He was like that with everyone. It was like a freak talent... and it was great. :-)

I also met someone from the American Red Cross. They're hosting an event at the Happy Mexican on Friday, July 21st as a benefit for the Red Cross. I think I may have to stop by!

On the way home, to celebrate my evening, I stopped by Corky's. I got a pulled pork sandwich that comes with coleslaw on it and, homemade banana pudding. Wow, that pudding was good! I've never had it before, but it was definitely homemade... just like Grandma.... Nilla wafers and all. I definitely recommend it!

Oh, also-- during the meeting, I found out that Kevin from Cheesecake Corner is opening up a new place downtown. It's going to be a wine and keish bar. Look for it!

Alright, I should head to bed. I'm really tired and I have to be up in 6 hours.