This one’s definitely worth the mess.

Think a burger meets a kebab meets a wrap, but it’s better than any of those. 

Ricos Tamales “El Ruco” isn’t listed on Google Maps. It’s a folding table on the sidewalk. But it’s the real deal. 

Lao Street Kitchen’s papaya salad is a masterclass in balance, hitting sweet, sour, salty and spicy all at once. 

A word of warning: This is not a “light lunch” situation. This is a commitment. You’re either going to need a nap afterward or a solid reason to walk around for the next hour.

You’d think all the hype, the endless press and the Instagram carnage of stacked sandwiches might make it impossible to live up to expectations. But you’d be wrong. 

Make sure you get your money’s worth at Memphis Crawfish Company No. 2 — suck the heads. 

Pho 4Ever, which we highlighted two years ago for its bánh mì dac biet, has perhaps the best bánh xèo in Memphis. 

The cheese pulls apart in stretchy strands, the meat is deeply savory, and the slightly spicy salsa verde on the side gives each bite a little punch.

An entire Thai menu — with an impressive version of drunken noodles — adds to Takashi’s offerings of well-executed sushi and soba bowls. 

The display case tells you everything you need to know about Isabella’s. A sprawling array of classic, oversized slices dominates the counter.

The rib steak, with its charred edges and tender middle, balances beautifully with plump shrimp just kissed by the grill. 

Taqueria El Palenke Express doesn’t try to overdeliver, and it doesn’t have to.

Pair your burger with a beer, cue up a Patsy Cline song on the jukebox and let yourself be charmed by the misshapen magic of this Midtown institution.

Unlike some budget-friendly ramen joints that cut corners, Nagoya’s broth delivers a depth and complexity that holds its own — especially against others around the city.

Complicated Pilgrim’s breakfast bowl proves quinoa isn’t boring; it’s just waiting for someone to show it a little love.

Joshua Carlucci says a Mediterranean wood flame grill is at the heart of Ali Baba’s traditional — but unforgettable — menu. 

For $10.50, you’ll get half a portion of their pollo asado, a firewood-smoked rotisserie chicken that’s tender, juicy and steeped in a subtle smokiness.

The setup at Malia’s is as no-nonsense as the food. The shack is weathered and well-loved, with hand-painted lettering and a menu nailed to a wooden plank.

Writer Joshua Carlucci says that Swagath has the whole experience: carefully crafted plates; a warm, polished setting, and a staff that feels like they actually care about your night.

If you’re not familiar with Hunan-style chicken as a Chinese-American dish, a close cousin would be Kung Pao.

Memphis Whistle is a cocktail bar where standard pub fare is spun on its head.

Crazy Noodle has been a well-loved beacon of gochujang-laden delights for more than a decade. But it’s the $10 Deal’s job to highlight something unexpected, even if it’s lurking in plain sight.

It seems like Memphis is getting a lot of new offerings in terms of Indian food, especially Indian food trucks. 

Joshua Carlucci says that Cafe Eclectic is one of the places that can cook a sunny-side up egg without fail.