A popular downtown restaurant is expanding its footprint and launching a new fast-casual concept.
Good Fortune Co., a ramen and dumpling spot owned by chefs Arturo Leighton and Sarah Cai, plans to expand its kitchen and dining area at 361 S. Main St. into two adjacent commercial bays at 363 and 365 S. Main St., including the former Sauce Agency space.
According to a special development grant application filed with the Center City Development Corp., an affiliate board of the Downtown Memphis Commission, the restaurant is seeking up to $88,750 for interior improvements. The total project cost is estimated at $1.49 million.
The project will nearly double the restaurant’s current footprint, totaling 5,250 square feet at the corner of South Main Street and Talbot Avenue.
The expansion will allow for longer hours, catering services and wholesale noodle production. Office space will be converted into additional seating, increasing capacity by about 33%. The southernmost bay will be transformed into a fast-casual pizza and takeout concept that will share part of the expanded kitchen.
The special grant request is on the agenda for the July 16 Center City Development Corp. meeting.
Good Fortune Co., a chef Guy Fieri-approved restaurant, is known for its handmade ramen and dumplings. Menu items include Classic Mane, Big City, Coco Curry, Spicy Pork and Tan Tan noodles, with customizable protein options. Dumpling fillings include potato, impossible beef, crawfish and pork.
The restaurant also serves craft cocktails, including the Bruce Lychee with Haku vodka, lychee and ginger, and Old Fortune with Taki whiskey, pandan and pu-er bitters.
“Good Fortune Co. has focused on more than just serving food, we’ve aimed to create meaningful connections, share culture and contribute to the work force of Memphis,” the owners said in the application. “From our very first pop-up during the pandemic to participating in televised culinary competitions, we’re always prioritized our community.”
In April, Leighton appeared on the Food Network series 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing. In January, the restaurant was featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
What Now Memphis reached out to the owner regarding the expansion and new concept. This article may be updated.
