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Southern Social

Fine dining restaurant · Memphis, TN · reviewed since 2016

How the Experts Score is calculatedEach factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (standing in the category can only raise it), then weighted; problems flagged in review highlights or a recent slide in ratings are subtracted:Satisfaction 64%68+43.2Reliability 28%75+21.2Replies to reviews 8%2+0.2Experts Score= 64Not enough data for value; its weight is shared by the others.Grade B: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39. Needs 10+ reviews.64SCORE
BGradeLetter from the Experts Score: A = 80+, B = 60–79, C = 40–59, D = 20–39, F = under 20.
#17 of 20 personal chefsPosition by Experts Score among all companies we track in this category. · better than 16%
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,647 Google reviews · 23 photos
83%five-star reviews
4.71★last 12 monthsAverage stars on reviews from the last 12 months only.
3.9%1–2★ in 2 yearsShare of 1–2★ reviews in the last 24 months — or the 20 newest reviews when the company had fewer than 20 in that time.
0%reviews answered by the owner
Oct 2026latest review

Southern Social at a glance

Google reviewers for Southern Social generally praise the attentive service, upscale atmosphere, and quality of dishes like fried chicken and steaks. Recurring themes highlight the professional staff and suitable ambiance for special occasions, though some note the dining room can be loud. Common criticisms include discrepancies between online menu prices and final bills, inconsistent food preparation such as dry or overcooked items, and occasional issues with takeout packaging.

  • Google rating: 4.7 out of 5 from 1,647 reviews (83% five-star).
  • Reviews on this page: 1,647 Google reviews (1,082 with written comments, 211 with photos).
  • Owner responses: the business replied to 0% of reviews.
  • Most recent review: October 30, 2026.
  • Service: Personal Chef serving Memphis, Tennessee.

Data from Google, last updated November 1, 2026.

Score profile vs other personal chefs

Score per factor (100 = best)Each factor is scored 0–100 on absolute terms (star average, share of 1–2★ reviews, price verdicts…); standing within the category can only raise it, never lower it.. Strongest: momentum and reliability; weakest: replies to reviews.

Satisfaction68Reliability75Craft & service–Value–Momentum100Replies to reviews2Satisfaction: 68 (median 95)Reliability: 75 (median 96)Momentum: 100 (median 100)Replies to reviews: 2 (median 32)
Southern SocialPersonal Chefs median0 = centre, 100 = best
SatisfactionSatisfaction · 54% of the scoreRecency-weighted star average (2-year half-life), shrunk toward the category mean by review volume; the company’s own lifetime average as the prior; absolute: 4.0★ = 0, 5★ = 100.Southern Social: 68/100 on this factor. Category median: 95.B
68
ReliabilityReliability · 24% of the scoreHow rarely jobs go badly: share of 1–2★ reviews — 60% the last 24 months (or the 20 newest if fewer), 40% all-time; 0% = 100, 15%+ = 0; the category percentile can only raise it.Southern Social: 75/100 on this factor. Category median: 96.B
75
Craft & serviceCraft & service · penalty only, up to −10 pointsGoogle review highlights: Quality, Professionalism, Responsiveness, Punctuality — how rarely reviewers flag them as a negative, per review since highlights began; 0% = 100, 5%+ = 0. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in — clean highlights are the norm, not a bonus.Not enough reviews for this factor yet. Category median: 98.–
–
ValueValue · 14% of the scoreCustomers’ own price verdicts (Great / Reasonable vs Overpriced) and Value highlights; 65% absolute (all “reasonable” ≈ 80, “great” = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Not enough reviews for this factor yet. Category median: 97.–
–
MomentumMomentum · penalty only, up to −10 pointsPenalises only a real slide: last-12-month average below lifetime (−0.5★ = 0). Still 4.8★+ over the last year, or steady/improving = 100. Subtracted from the score (up to −10), never averaged in.Southern Social: 100/100 on this factor. Category median: 100.A
100
Replies to reviewsReplies to reviews · 7% of the scoreHow often the owner publicly replies to reviews under 5★ (1–4★). Needs 3+ such reviews, otherwise not counted; 65% absolute (80%+ replied = 100), the category percentile can only raise it.Southern Social: 2/100 on this factor. Category median: 32.F
2

Bar = this company · dark tick = category median.

Star ratings

1,647 Google reviews we collected

  • 5 stars1,35983%
  • 4 stars17311%
  • 3 stars543%
  • 2 stars211%
  • 1 star402%

Praise vs complaints

Phrases our text analysis found in 1,082 written reviews

  • Praise72493%
  • Complaints577%

Topic share

How often each topic comes up in the written reviews

  • Staff & attitude29137%
  • Quality & results23430%
  • Would recommend12316%
  • Speed & response537%
  • Price & value517%
  • Honesty & trust182%
  • Communication111%

What customers talk about

We read 1,082 written reviews and marked every phrase about these topics. The same colors are highlighted in the reviews.

  • “Everything was perfect: the atmosphere, the professional and friendly service, and the delicious food.”
    “I understand he works for tips but he did not have to be disrespectful and tell us to do it ourselves in the time that he did without even giving us a…”
  • “Excellent service ,tremendous atmosphere and amazing food.”
    “Last night was date night at Southern Social and to say the least it was the worst experience we’ve had at this restaurant.”
  • “The decor, the ambiance, the service, and the food was a 10/10.”
    “I would not recommend this place and would rate it 1 star due to the poor service, overall dining experience, and subpar food.”
  • “They’re fast, professional, and it’s the right way to start a high-end evening.”
    “They marked my reservation as a no-show, even though we did show up for our scheduled appointment.”
  • “I normally complain about a pricey ticket, but this was well worth every penny!”
    “We ordered oysters, they were very small and just ok, and quite pricey.”
  • “), but our server Jessie was absolutely amazing—patient, attentive, and genuinely kind the entire evening.”
    “Lamb spare ribs- they’re not lying when they say it’s covered in sweet sauce.”
  • “Our server was very courteous in explaining the menu and we had and another kind and knowledgeable member explained the bourbon menu.”
    “” The waitress seemed annoyed with me, ignored me and spoke almost exclusively to my date.”

People customers mention

  • Germantown 28 reviews
  • Flight 12 reviews
  • Mac 12 reviews

praise complaint · found by our text analysis, Google review wording unchanged.

Recent reviews

Tex2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 days ago★★★★★

Excellent service ,tremendous atmosphere and amazing food. I did notice a man attempting to eat his soup from a plate and I think if I hadn’t of noticed him he was about to use a fork 🤷🏼‍♂️

KeishaLocal Guide · 43 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a week ago★★★★★

Southern social has always been on my list to try and tonight they exceeded my expectations. Thelma’s fried chicken omg!!! 10/10! Braised waygu lasagna.. GENIUS! 10/10! Bacon fondue with the pita bread !! Amazing!! I had such a good time and everyone was so nice! Caitlyn was a dream and knows her job! I love the braided pony’s too girls! 🩷

Customer photo from Keisha's review
JLocal Guide · 117 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a week ago★★★★★

🥰❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Love this place. Come often for dinner Easter, Mother's Da Anniversary. Always nice place

SharonLocal Guide · 41 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · a week ago★★★★

Our table really enjoyed the cheese fondue appetizer. For entrees, we chose three petite filets, one topped with blue cheese, and two au poivre. That was the best au poive sauce I've ever had! And the filet was so flavorful and tender. For desert, we had bread pudding. A comforting, warm, cloud of custard…

Tonya10 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · Edited 2 weeks ago★★★★★

Server was amazing! The food was great. The tomato basil soup was spectacular. The wine is great! The ambience is OK. It is really loud. Could use some soft wall absorption.

MdPilarLocal Guide · 245 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews this person has written across all businesses on Google Maps (not just this one). More reviews usually means a more experienced, trustworthy reviewer. · 2 weeks ago★★★★★

Todo de 10, atmósfera del lugar, servicio profesional y amable, y comida buenísima. Carnes espectaculares y de postres el mejor el bread pudding sin ninguna duda. Este sito es para repetir y recomendarlo.

Customer photo from MdPilar's review

Photos

Customer reviews

4.7 ★★★★★ 1,647 reviews on Google · rating breakdown

Reviews from Google, shown as published (original wording, unedited).

Team members customers mention
Filter by topic — each topic is highlighted in the reviews in the same color
Tex Moore2 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Tex has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Excellent service ,tremendous atmosphere and amazing food. I did notice a man attempting to eat his soup from a plate and I think if I hadn’t of noticed him he was about to use a fork 🤷🏼‍♂️

Keisha LesterLocal Guide · 43 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Keisha has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Southern social has always been on my list to try and tonight they exceeded my expectations. Thelma’s fried chicken omg!!! 10/10! Braised waygu lasagna.. GENIUS! 10/10! Bacon fondue with the pita bread !! Amazing!! I had such a good time and everyone was so nice! Caitlyn was a dream and knows her job! I love the braided pony’s too girls! 🩷

  • Price per person: $100+
  • Reservation: Reservations recommended
  • Group size: 2 people
  • Wait time: No wait
J JohnLocal Guide · 117 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews J has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

🥰❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Love this place. Come often for dinner Easter, Mother's Da Anniversary. Always nice place

Sharon MoserLocal Guide · 41 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Sharon has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Our table really enjoyed the cheese fondue appetizer. For entrees, we chose three petite filets, one topped with blue cheese, and two au poivre. That was the best au poive sauce I've ever had! And the filet was so flavorful and tender. For desert, we had bread pudding. A comforting, warm, cloud of custard engulfed challah bread with chocolate and caramel sauce topped with vanilla ice cream, it was the perfect conclusion of our exceptional meal. All of our servers were very well trained, kind, and courteous. It was a lovely evening.

  • Price per person: $60–70
  • Reservation: Reservations recommended
  • Group size: Not sure
  • Seating type: Indoor dining area, Bar area, Booth seating, Counter seating, Private dining room
  • Parking space: Not sure
  • Parking options: Free parking lot, Free street parking, Valet
Tonya Bushey10 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Tonya has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Server was amazing! The food was great. The tomato basil soup was spectacular. The wine is great! The ambience is OK. It is really loud. Could use some soft wall absorption.

  • Price per person: $30–50
  • Reservation: Varies by time / day
  • Noise level: Very loud, hard to hear
  • Group size: 1 person
  • Recommendation for vegetarians: Highly recommend
  • Vegetarian offerings: Vegetarian menu or section
  • Parking space: Plenty of parking
  • Parking options: Free parking lot
MdPilarLocal Guide · 245 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews MdPilar has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Todo de 10, atmósfera del lugar, servicio profesional y amable, y comida buenísima. Carnes espectaculares y de postres el mejor el bread pudding sin ninguna duda. Este sito es para repetir y recomendarlo.

  • Price per person: $50–60
  • Noise level: Quiet, easy to talk
  • Group size: 5-8 people
Sha Putrell5 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Sha has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Our experience at Southern Social wasn’t what I expected for our 25th wedding anniversary. The prices on their online menu were different from what we were charged, and the ribeye looked like a piece was missing. Presentation matters, especially for the price paid. The server was very attentive, but overall, I expected better. I should have gone somewhere else instead of taking recommendation from social media.

  • Price per person: $100+
  • Reservation: Reservations recommended
  • Group size: 2 people
Matt DavisLocal Guide · 72 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Matt has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Excellent as always, from the minute we pull into the lot till the moment we leave. I can't recommend this place enough.

  • Price per person: $40–50
  • Reservation: Reservations recommended
  • Group size: 2 people
  • Seating type: Indoor dining area, Bar area, Outdoor patio / terrace, Booth seating, Private dining room
Robert MuffalettoLocal Guide · 151 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews Robert has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

***Revision: DO NOT ORDER TAKE OUT! The food was significantly worse. The packages don't let steam out so everything was soggy and oily (our drive home was very short). My review will stand as is but only for dining in. For takeout, the same items in the pictures I provided would be a 2/5 or 3/5 depending on what. Anything fried would receive the 2, and the rest would be a 3 because of the unusual amount of oil and odd textures from sitting (again only for a short amount of time). I recommend some R&D in the packaging for takeout items. Unfortunately, I must drop my overall score from a 5 to a 4 because of this. We'll try again in a few months and hope they change the packaging. _______________________ Dining in: Food: Everything we ordered was excellent, but a few dishes really separated themselves. The Aunt Thelma’s Fried Chicken was probably the biggest standout. The coating was deeply crisp and well seasoned, while the chicken stayed juicy underneath. It was the kind of fried chicken that makes you stop talking for a second after the first bite. The Bacon & Gouda Fondue was another favorite. Rich, smoky, and ridiculously easy to keep eating. The Gouda gave it plenty of depth, the bacon added even more savory flavor, and the crispy pita was perfect for scooping it up. I also loved the Fried Pimento Cheese Sandwiches. Crispy outside, creamy and rich inside, with the pepper jelly adding just enough sweetness to cut through the cheese. One of those appetizers I would order again without even looking at the rest of the menu. The Crispy Pork Belly was excellent too. The pork had a great crisp exterior with plenty of richness inside, and the rice grits, Manchego, green tomato jam, and chili-truffle aioli gave the plate a lot more going on than just pork belly. The Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail was simple but really well done. Huge shrimp, clean flavor, and exactly what you want from a classic shrimp cocktail. For the mains, the Tomahawk Pork Chop was juicy, well cooked, and substantial. The mac & cheese was rich and baked nicely on top, while the Honey Jalapeño Tater Tots were dangerously easy to keep picking at. Crispy, a little sweet, a little spicy, and a great side with either entrée. Dessert ended on a high note with the Chocolate Chip Crème Brûlée, which was one of the best things we had. Creamy custard, that thin crackly caramelized top, chocolate throughout, and just enough sweetness. I would come back for that alone. Service: Polished and attentive without feeling stiff. Everything came out smoothly, the pacing worked well for how much food we ordered, and the whole meal felt taken care of from beginning to end. Atmosphere: Southern Social has that upscale Southern dining-room feel without becoming overly formal. It is elegant and comfortable, and it feels equally suited for a nice dinner or a bigger celebration. Summary: Easy 5/5. Everything was excellent, but the fried chicken, Bacon & Gouda Fondue, Fried Pimento Cheese Sandwiches, and Chocolate Chip Crème Brûlée were the dishes I would immediately order again. One of those meals where even after ordering way too much, there were still several things we wanted another bite of.

  • Reservation: Reservations recommended
  • Group size: 3-4 people
  • Seating type: Indoor dining area
  • Parking options: Valet
DJ GodfreyLocal Guide · 39 reviewsTotal number of Google reviews DJ has written across all businesses on Google Maps, not just this one.
Review from Google · view on Google
★★★★★

Great fine dinning. Red fish was one of the best. Steak is also great selection

  • Price per person: $40–50
  • Reservation: Reservations recommended
  • Noise level: Quiet, easy to talk
  • Group size: 3-4 people

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Business details