You’ve seen the viral clips. You’ve probably heard the internet chatter about the $135 tomahawk steak. But if you’re looking for the real story behind the Moneybagg Yo restaurant Memphis scene, it's a lot more than just a rapper putting his name on a menu. It's about a local legend trying to shift the energy of his hometown.
Honestly, people love to talk. When DeMario White Jr.—the man the world knows as Moneybagg Yo—decided to open Cache 42 Kitchen & Cocktails, the "too expensive" crowd came out in full force. But for those of us actually living in or visiting Memphis, it wasn't just about the price tag. It was about seeing a Black-owned, upscale space thrive in an area where people usually expect nothing but fast food or chain joints.
The Reality of Cache 42 Kitchen & Cocktails
Bagg didn't just stumble into this. He’s been "after the bag" for years, but this venture feels personal. Located at 7520 Hacks Cross Rd, Cache 42 isn't your typical celebrity restaurant where the owner is just a silent face on a billboard. Word is, he was involved in everything from the velvet textures to the lighting.
The spot is split into two vibes: the Dining Room and the Living Room.
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The Dining Room is where you go for the "elevated" stuff. We're talking white tablecloth energy but with a Memphis soundtrack. Then you’ve got the Living Room, which is basically a high-end hookah lounge. It’s got that "clean hip hop" vibe where you can actually hear yourself talk. No standing around either; everyone has to have a seat. It keeps things from getting chaotic.
The Menu Drama (and What’s Actually Worth It)
Let's talk about that steak.
Yes, the 40oz Tomahawk is $135. People lost their minds on Twitter. But if you’ve ever stepped foot in a high-end steakhouse like Ruth’s Chris or Jeff Ruby’s, you know that’s just... the price. Chef Daris Leatherwood, who has cooked for Lil Wayne and worked the lines at major steakhouses, isn't serving cafeteria food.
If you aren't trying to spend your whole paycheck, there are other lanes to take. The Jamaican oxtails over rice are legendary. The lobster queso fries? Honestly, they’re a problem—as in, you’ll want three orders.
Here’s a quick look at what’s actually on the table:
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- The Big Hits: Lobster Menage (three ways: grilled, fried, stuffed), Cajun Pasta, and King Salmon.
- The Drinks: You can’t go to a Moneybagg spot and not order the "Wockesha" cocktail. It’s a Tequila-based nod to his hit song, and no, it doesn't actually have "lean" in it. It’s just clever marketing for a solid drink.
- The Deals: They do $1 wings on Wednesdays and $3 lamb chops on Thursdays. It’s not all "rich rapper" prices.
Expansion: Taking it to Main Street
If one location wasn't enough, Bagg doubled down. By late 2024, the buzz started about a second spot: Cache 42 Downtown.
Located at 97 N Main St, right on the ground floor of the Renew Riverview Apartments, this one is designed as an "express-lounge." It’s smaller. It’s meant for the downtown crowd who wants that same upscale flavor but maybe in a more intimate setting. They even added lunch options to cater to the business folks working near the courthouse and the river.
Why This Matters for Memphis
Look, Memphis has a complicated relationship with its stars. Sometimes they leave and never look back. Moneybagg is doing the opposite. Between his Vior water brand, his Loaf Boyz Ventures label, and these restaurants, he’s basically trying to build a local empire.
Is it perfect? No. Some people find the "all guests must be seated" rule a bit stiff for a lounge. Others still complain about the service speed when it's packed. But that’s the restaurant business.
What most people get wrong is thinking this is just a "rapper's side project." It’s a legitimate play for a slice of the Memphis fine-dining pie.
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Actionable Tips for Your Visit
- Make a Reservation: Don’t just show up on a Friday night and expect to walk in. Use their website or OpenTable.
- Dress the Part: This isn't the spot for gym shorts. It’s "urban upscale." Think date night or "I just got paid" vibes.
- The Hacks Cross vs. Downtown Choice: Go to Hacks Cross for the full "Living Room" hookah experience. Go Downtown if you want a quicker bite or a sophisticated drink before hitting a game at the Forum.
- Try the Oxtails: Everyone talks about the steak, but the oxtails are the secret MVP of the menu.
If you’re in the 901 and want to see what happens when street culture meets fine dining, you've gotta see it for yourself. Just make sure your bank account is ready for that Tomahawk if you’re feeling bold.