Barbecue reigns in Memphis, but plant-based dining is having a moment
Jasmin Smith prepares an order of vegan wings from Plant-Based Heat near the University of Memphis on Jan. 28. (Patrick Lantrip/The Daily Memphian)
In Memphis where barbecue reigns supreme, a quiet revolution may be unfolding.
The popularity of vegan and plant-based diets is growing, spurred by a mix of health-conscious diners, adventurous eaters and people concerned about the environment or animal rights. Between 2019 and 2023, U.S. retail sales of plant-based food increased from $3.9 billion to $8.1 billion with much of the growth coming from products that mimic conventional animal products.
And in Memphis at least three local restaurants are trying to show through items like vegan hot wings and house-made veggie burgers that plant-based eating is the way to go.Â
For Ralph “RJ Groove” Johnson, the journey to creating Plant-Based Heat began during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Memphis native and veteran DJ, Johnson found himself experimenting in the kitchen during the shutdown. What started as personal exploration turned into a thriving business with Plant-Based Heat opening its doors on Juneteenth 2021.
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Christin Yates
Christin Yates is a native Memphian who has worked in PR and copywriting since 2007. She earned her B.S. in public relations and M.S. in mass communications from Murray State University.
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