by Chef Eli Townsend
I am excited for you to take this journey with me as we explore food through a different lens. At the Table by Chef Eli is an exploration of the power food holds in many forms, including sustenance, culture, heritage, entertainment, and connection. I look forward to discovering new eateries, local staples, recipes, and so much more.
Every day is a new opportunity to discover how food impacts the quality of our lives, yet there is something transformative about the start of a new year. It is an inaugural reset, shared universally.
Refocusing our consumption reminds us that we truly are what we eat. The year 2025 helped me better understand the importance of being in alignment with what we choose to consume. “Food is Medicine” is a thought worth exploring as we set new goals, seek alignment for a better life, and learn to appreciate the gift of truly nourishing our whole being.
As a curator of “Food That Inspires,” I want to challenge each of us to be intentional about the food we eat and to understand the roots and nourishment that simple ingredients can provide. Certain foods can help improve focus and mental clarity. Options rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and steady energy sources may support brain health. Blueberries, nuts, fatty fish like salmon, leafy greens, and whole grains are often linked to sharper focus. Staying hydrated and avoiding heavy, sugary meals can also help maintain concentration.
Foods that may help boost energy and support immune health include lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, eggs, fish, and beans; fruits like citrus, berries, kiwi, and pomegranates; vegetables including spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers; whole grains such as oats, quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat; nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, chia, and pumpkin seeds; healthy fats including olive oil, avocado, and fatty fish like salmon; and probiotic rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. Staying hydrated and limiting processed sugars also supports energy and immune strength.
Commonly used herbs and spices that support general health include turmeric, which contains curcumin and is known for anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties; ginger, which may aid digestion and reduce inflammation; garlic, which supports heart health and may help boost the immune system; cinnamon, which may help regulate blood sugar; rosemary, which contains compounds linked to brain health; peppermint, which aids digestion and may relieve headaches; oregano, which is rich in antioxidants; and green tea, including matcha, which supports metabolism. These can be added to meals or teas, but should be used in moderation. Anyone with health conditions or who takes medications should consult a healthcare professional.
Renewing our relationship with food also means eating local. Supporting local food systems often means fresher options, fewer transportation impacts, and a stronger local economy. Memphis has a rich food culture, and it is important that we support our community by being intentional about where we dine. In uncertain times, support does not always have to be financial. We can share positive experiences, offer constructive feedback directly to businesses, and recognize that our words have power and influence.
When was the last time you dined with intention? January and February are often the most challenging months for food based businesses, when every customer truly counts. Before choosing the convenience of a drive through, consider inviting a friend to lunch at a local restaurant. As a form of self care, take a night off from cooking. I look forward to introducing new restaurants, revisiting local staples, and sharing my love for how food’s universal language connects us all. I hope you will join me At the Table.
