Imagine upscale Southern cuisine, exquisitely prepared with a hint of Creole and a focus on seafood—that’s Mahogany River Terrace. Located on the Mighty Mississippi River in Memphis, this Mud Island gem is a family-run restaurant owned by Carlee McCullough. With breathtaking views of two bridges, the environment is stunning and sets the stage for every customer to experience delicious home-cooked goodness in every bite.
One of the goals is to give each guest something to talk about in a good way and McCullough, who is also a practicing attorney, is delivering. Serving a delightful menu of authentic flavors for brunch, lunch, and dinner, I wanted to know more about what drives this multi-talented owner. Below are highlights from our conversation.
How has being a multi-hyphenate entrepreneur, an attorney, and a community advocate contributed to your success as a restaurateur?
It has helped me by giving me more insights into the local business and community landscape. By working in these other areas, I have discovered firsthand what the city’s priorities are which has been invaluable in fine-tuning our restaurant concept so Mahogany River Terrace could become a hub of Southern hospitality for everyone to enjoy.
Have you incorporated your family food background and heritage into the menu?
Yes, and it comes through in nearly everything we serve! We have been passionate about taking some of the favorite foods we grew up with and adding a tasty twist to be enjoyed in an atmosphere of elegant dining. For example, my grandfather was a gourmet chef and shared how enhancements like serving rice pilaf instead of plain rice can really elevate a dish. On heritage recipes, my great-grandmother made hot water cornbread that was indescribably delicious. We make this and I am proud to say it has become a very popular item on our menu.
What is your community give-back program?
Giving back is a very important part of our business. We have a discount program established for all first responders that they can apply anytime when they are dining with us. Additionally, we mentor students because we believe contributing to the next generation and supporting their goals is vital. My team is in the process of developing a relationship with East High School as a feeder for the food industry. We have done this by participating in the Peer Power summer program to help train youth so they can become even more marketable in the workforce.
What is next for Mahogany River Terrace?
Mahogany River Terrace has a Cocktail Coffee Table book coming out soon. We have our spices and apparel available through our website. And, very soon, we will be opening Mahogany Vegan+ which will be a very exciting addition to our portfolio.
What is your advice for aspiring restaurateurs?
Dream big and do not be afraid to fail but recognize getting there means taking one step at a time. And, along the way, ask for help because we cannot reach our dreams alone. Restaurants, like other business success, will require you to surround yourself with the right people who will share their expertise professionally and emotional support personally. Build the right team who are aligned with your goals and same sensibilities in restaurant quality and service. Most importantly, always remember to have fun.
Tenyse Williams is an award-winning Brand Strategist, an Adjunct Instructional Specialist at Columbia University and George Washington University, and Founder & Chief Communications Officer of Verified Consulting, leading a team of digital marketing professionals amplifying awareness for their clients. Follow her on LinkedIn.
