Mona Hammonds prepares a Memo's Grill chopped wiener plate in this 2001 file photo. While her and brother Victor Williams' father created a chili sauce that helped to make the restaurant legendary, Hammonds and Williams, who now own the business, hope to spread its appeal even further by hosting live music.In the 1960s and 1970s, M.L. King Boulevard was known for its entertainment offerings. Traffic on the street was so heavy that businesses stayed open until 3 a.m., according to an online documentary citing Roosevelt "Chief" Jude, who has worked at Memo's Grill since 1974.
Local business owners and operators want to generate that type of demand again - including Memo's.
Locals may recognize one of the oldest and longest-operating black-owned businesses on the boulevard for its sign out front touting the restaurant's specialty: chopped wieners. But as the enterprise marks its 50th anniversary this month, it also seeks to become known for showcasing the most talented artists in the city.
"This is a venue for artists to come and hone their skills and get exposure," said Wiley Morton of Morton Enterprises, a spokesman for the upcoming anniversary celebration.
If Memo's entertainment venture is successful, it will be one of several nightclubs and restaurants bringing performances back to the boulevard. The Bessie Smith Cultural Center and Jazzanooga, located across the street from Memo's, both regularly host live entertainment.
Memo's 50th anniversary three-day celebration is scheduled for Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 23-25. Artists will perform each night from 6-8 p.m.
Former Riverbend participant and local R&B artist Clark Kint anticipates the combination of food and music will pack the restaurant.
"For Memo's to be bringing music in, that's really going to catch the younger crowd," said Kint, who will sing during the celebration.
Local blues singer Jerry "Spoonz" Hayes, artist Joey Boaz and jazz guitarist Alfred G. Smith, known as "the Doctor," will also perform.
The restaurant's winning recipe thus far has been a combination of good food, good vibes and good customers, said owner Victor Williams and sister and co-owner Mona Hammonds.
After purchasing Memo's in 1966, their father, Richard Williams Jr., created his own chili sauce that made the restaurant's chop weiner plate legendary.
But Williams credits Memo's customers for keeping them in business for a half century. The family said they've seen second and third generations of Memo's customers.
Hammonds credits their mother and father for creating a business that offers good food and customer service.
Williams recently added chicken salad to the menu of barbecue pork, beef and rib sandwiches, chicken wings, ice cream and pecan pie, and anticipates having more menu options when the anniversary celebration begins.
Email Yolanda Putman at yputman@timesfreepress.com.