A new fine dining restaurant is preparing to launch in Nesbit, Mississippi.
Magnolia Bend Grille will soon take over the former BT Prime Steakhouse space at Bonne Terre, a wedding and event venue located at 4715 Church Rd. The kitchen will be led by former Rizzo’s Diner Chef B. Michael Patrick, while his wife, Angel, will manage the 75-seat dining room.
According to The Daily Memphian, Bonne Terre co-owners Stafford and Christy Houston, who acquired the 28-acre property two years ago, had been searching for a chef to take over the restaurant space, which Patrick will rent.
Rizzo’s opened in the South Main Arts District in 2011, earning acclaim from Southern Living and even appearing on Food Network with Guy Fieri before closing in 2022. After its closure, Patrick spent two and a half years as Executive Chef Partner at The Capital Grille.
He told The Daily Memphian that while Magnolia Bend Grille won’t be a replica of Rizzo’s, it will still borrow from the downtown diner.
The menu will showcase elevated yet casual Southern fare, featuring a mix of new dishes and old favorites, including Patrick’s famous Lobster Pronto Pup, White Chocolate Blueberry Bread Pudding, “Nawlins Style Shrimp,” the Rizzo’s burger, and steaks. The bar menu will offer casual options like burgers, sliders, and cheese plates.
Patrick envisions a relaxed atmosphere for the space, encouraging guests to feel at ease in everyday attire like golf shirts and khakis. Initially, the restaurant will serve dinner only, with Sunday brunch to follow.
While originally slated for a September debut, inspection delays have pushed back the launch, and a firm opening date has not yet been set. Once open, Magnolia Bend Grille will honor all BT Prime gift certificates until the end of 2024.
For updates, be sure to keep an eye on the restaurant’s Facebook page.