October 2025 – Flying Fish, a beloved restaurant in Downtown Memphis, has officially closed after 18 years of operation on 2nd Street. In a statement posted on their website, the restaurant attributed its closure to “civil unrest” in the area that significantly impacted sales. However, some local figures, including Jerred Price, president of the Downtown Neighborhood Association, have contested this reasoning, citing competition and shifting consumer preferences as potential factors.
What Happened
Flying Fish, known for its popular seafood dishes, including fried okra and fish, shut its doors permanently after nearly two decades in business. The restaurant, a fixture in Downtown Memphis, released a statement explaining that ongoing “civil unrest” in the area had severely affected sales to the point of no return. The closure marks the end of an era for locals who had frequented the restaurant for its comfort food and vibrant atmosphere.
However, Jerred Price, the president of the Downtown Neighborhood Association, disputed this claim, calling it a “red herring” for poor business practices and a failure to remain relevant in a highly competitive dining scene. Price pointed to a wave of new restaurants, such as Amelia Genes, ESCO, Felicia Suzanne’s, and Tonica, which have thrived in the downtown area. He suggested that these newer establishments had outpaced Flying Fish in terms of attracting customers, calling the “civil unrest” narrative an excuse for the restaurant’s inability to keep up with changing trends.
Who Was Affected
- Flying Fish‘s closure has deeply impacted its regular patrons and the downtown community. Former customers have expressed their disappointment, recalling fond memories of the restaurant’s great food and lively social atmosphere. Many have noted that it was one of the few places where locals could gather and mingle on Front Street or Main Street, making its closure a significant loss for those who frequented the area.
- The Downtown Neighborhood Association and local entrepreneurs have responded by calling for increased community engagement, citing a decrease in crime in the area and urging residents to support businesses that continue to operate in downtown Memphis.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Following the closure announcement, social media has been flooded with tributes and reactions. While some have expressed sadness over the loss of Flying Fish, others have agreed with Price’s view that the restaurant’s inability to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving dining scene played a major role in its closure.
Local leaders have also emphasized the need for downtown businesses to innovate and adapt in order to survive, especially as Memphis continues to grow and attract newer, more exciting culinary experiences.
What Happens Next
While Flying Fish‘s closure is a blow to the downtown area, Jerred Price and other community leaders are advocating for new business models to thrive in the region. Their call to action encourages more Memphians to bring their business to downtown, where the community continues to push for progress despite the challenges that businesses face.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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