Crosstown Arts Cafe (Memphis, TN)
Crosstown Arts has become a vibrant asset to the local art scene. The interesting and powerful exhibits and events that happen here are very in-line with the mission of enrichment and passion that Memphis is trying to foster through the Crosstown building. This really awesome space within Crosstown Concourse just got a bit better with the addition of the Crosstown Arts Cafe. Located right in the corner of the Crosstown Arts exhibit, this place goes above and beyond the definition of a typical museum cafe. The majority of the menu here is vegan, they have a full coffee bar and all day breakfast, and they are very intentional the creativity and presentation of each item. Not only has every meal I have had here been delicious, but it has also been beautifully presented - something that many restaurants do not put much thought into. Although a bit on the expensive side for a fast-casual dining option, the menu items are upscale and the portions are large. Whether you’re getting a cup of coffee or tea with a vegan pastry or you’re sitting down for a full-scale meal, do not hesitate try out this cafe as you explore one of the cool new exhibits at Crosstown Arts.
Cauliflower Curry Soup and A Veggie Burger with Hashbrowns
One very surprising factor of this menu is that almost everything is vegan. When I first came across this place, I was really surprised that they chose to go this plant-based direction when creating the menu for a museum cafe. Yet, after tasting some of the dishes, I realized that these plant-based dishes are ones that honestly anyone can enjoy. It is apparent that the food here was created with the intention of making vegan food an appealing and delicious option for anyone wanting to try it out.
Thai Green Curry Bowl
If I were to recommend one item on the menu, I would most definitely say to order the Thai Green Curry Bowl. This bowl is full of kimchi, mushrooms, and other vegetables and is served with perfectly seasoned tempeh and your choice of white or brown rice. If wanting a hearty, flavorful meal, especially as the colder months begin to come, this bowl is exactly what you need.
Sweet Potato Waffle and Thai Green Curry Bowl
Some other items I have tried there have been daily specials. Typically, they a new waffle, soup, wrap, and sandwich that rotate from day to day. Of these specials, I really loved the sweet potato waffle and the curry cauliflower soup. However, I’m sure you cannot go wrong with any of the specials! All of these specials are listed each day on their Facebook page. In addition to the daily specials, they also have a variety of daily pastries, most of which are vegan as well. To top it off, they have a full espresso and tea menu (with oat milk as a milk substitute option!)
It is very exciting that a restaurant as creative as Crosstown Arts Cafe has made its way onto the vegan food scene in Memphis. As this restaurant grows and further develops the menu in the coming months, I’m sure it will be a huge draw for the surrounding museum and the Crosstown Concourse itself. So, whether you are wanting to get some work done with a coffee and pastry or you are wanting to have an upscale, hearty meal, Crosstown Arts is a great place to try out.
