HYPERLOCAL NEWS HUB BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS DEPARTMENT OF JOURNALISM
Sweet Grass Opens Sister Restaurant: Sweet Grass Next Door
It's just like Sweet Grass...one door down.
By Jessie Wilks/MicroMemphis reporter
April 28, 2011
In efforts to reduce wait times and allow more reservation slots, the owners of Sweet Grass LLC decided to open a more casual setting, Sweet Grass Next Door.
Next Door is nearly identical to Sweet Grass with the exception of it being more of a bar-like atmosphere, specializing in drinks (craft beers, wines, cocktails and even beers on tap). The food menu is similar to the original Sweet Grass, but includes pub-inspired options to go along with the atmosphere. A few examples include deep fried pimento cheese burgers, deviled crab cakes or even fried green tomato BLTs.
With the Memphis Grizzlies making it to the NBA playoffs and winning the most games in franchise history, the casual bar has become a hot spot for visitors to watch the games. Head chef Ryan Trimm is glad he now has extra seating for events like this.
Trimm said the popularity of Sweet Grass since its opening last spring has made it impossible for many people to get a seat at the original restaurant. Reservations for Sweet Grass are typically filled -- even on weeknights.
"We wanted something that would solve the extensive wait times we were dealing with, and or even make the wait time more fun with the addition of the casual bar," said Trimm.
There's even a small room in the back of the bar that can be reserved for private parties. It's equipped with a large TV in case guests want to book their own sports watch parties.
"This is the perfect addition to Cooper Young and to the exisiting restaurant, because it's still the same food with some new stuff of course, along with great service and affordable prices," said Trimm.
Although the kitchen of Next Door closes at 11 P.M., its bar stays open later.
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