A beloved North Memphis soul food spot has closed its doors, but the space won’t stay empty for long.
Longstanding family-run Ms. Girlee’s Soul Food shuttered on Friday, December 20, 2024. Founded four decades ago by Jimmie Leach—affectionately known as “Mama”—the restaurant had been a community staple for generations.
Though the Leach family is saddened by the closure, they’re embracing the opportunity to spend more time together and explore new ventures.
And the 629 Chelsea Ave space is already set for a fresh chapter. Helen and Marlon “Chef 6” Hammond, the duo behind The Gourmet Gallery in Downtown Memphis, will take over the location to launch a new, yet-to-be-named concept.
According to The Commercial Appeal, the new restaurant will offer the same home-cooked soul food diners have come to love from The Gourmet Gallery and the Hammonds’ catering business, 6 Million Catering, albeit with its own unique twist.
The Hammonds plan to open the new eatery in mid-February 2025.
