Petals of a Peony: Blooming in Memphis with Sichuan Spice
True Chinese Cuisine
As Memphis continues to grow and develop, our culinary scene expands. While many local chefs are still majoring on barbeque and soul dishes, global dining has made it to the River City in spades. From Indian to Ethiopian, there are traditional and unique menus to send any taste buds on a new (or familiar) adventure. Petals of a Peony is a new, stunning example of Sichuan cuisine in Memphis and whether you grew up in the Sichuan Province of China or have never laid eyes on a spring roll before, you’re destined to fall in love with the flavors and spice of their menu.
Full of Flavor
“Petals” opened its original restaurant only last year on Germantown Parkway. The unassuming storefront in a suburban shopping center opens up to a cozy dining room complete with a mural of peonies, a small waitstaff, and a bustling, partially opened kitchen. The menu is extensive but not too varied, with the American-familiar offerings of Kung Pao Chicken and fried rice for the more timid diner and traditional Sichuan items like Black Wood Ear (mushroom) Salad, Deep Fried Duck, and Eggplant and Garlic Sauce for the adventurers or those seeking the true taste of home. Regulars swear by the Mapo Tofu and it’s no surprise that the Peony Chicken with crunchy bell peppers is a fail-safe choice.
The textures and flavors of the Petals menu are surprising…spice without overwhelming heat, flavor that is both unique and completely palatable. The chicken noodle soup offers comfort and warmth, while the Spicy Crispy Chicken feels familiar but offers a kick. The rice is exquisitely fluffy and there are mounds of it to balance mouthfuls of flavor with everyone’s favorite starch.
One Menu, Two “Petals”
After several months of continued success, it’s no wonder Petals sought out a more central location for their second restaurant. Instead of embarking “out East” to the jammed pack Germantown Parkway, customers inside the 240 loop need simply to make their way to Overton Square. The same gorgeous dishes are now served up at 2110 Madison Avenue…a beautiful spot that feels a bit more elevated than the Cordova location. Perfect for a date night, the midtown eatery also features a full bar, something unique to the newer spot. While reservations will ensure your table, Petals is happy to take walk-ups, and their staff is always willing to make suggestions, answer questions, and welcome you into a restaurant that feels like an extension of a true Sichuan home. Their goal is to send their customers on an adventure without you ever having to step onto a plane, and once you’ve enjoyed their fare, you’ll understand the attraction of this unique cuisine.
Our suggestions: Invite a table full of friends and order family style so you can taste as many offerings as possible. There won’t be a dish you regret.