The Memphis Art Museum will be proving in 2027 that inspiration and creativity can take many
forms; sometimes it manifests as a brilliant painting or innovative sculpture. Sometimes it manifests as a delicious meal. The establishment will be welcoming Artista, a new restaurant from celebrated hospitality vet John-Paul Gagliano, and it will be providing a medium for visitors to enjoy the art of a great meal, reports Memphis Flyer.
Artista is currently under construction at 55 S. Front Street. The 4,595-square-foot restaurant will be able to accommodate up to 99 visitors and will be its own entity, distinct from the museum, with a designated entrance of its own.
Gagliano originally envisioned Artista as a new location of Libro, but pivoted both in name and in menu. While Artista will feature some Libro favorites, the restaurant’s fare will be reflective of its future customers. Gagliano explains: ““Downtown and East Memphis are two totally different clienteles. Two totally different demographics.”
Originally slated to launch in January of 2027, Artista is now on track for a February debut. The establishment will be open daily for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. Guests will be able to stop in from 11 am to 2:30 pm. Artista will close its doors from 2:30 pm to 4 pm and reopen at 4:30 for dinner service.
Artista promises to be a particularly exciting arrival for the Memphis dining scene, thanks in no small part of Gagliano. The restaurateur has launched Tonica and Ecco, along with Libro, all concepts embraced for their chic and modern sensibilities.
