Bartlett's repertoire of eateries is set for an infusion of fresh flavors with two local restaurant chains making their way to the area. Maciel’s Tortas Tacos, a purveyor of Mexican cuisine, has unlocked its doors to patrons at a third location, situated at 3108 North Germantown Parkway. The establishment, which also has roots in Midtown and downtown, began serving its signature dishes this past Monday, offering both dine-in and takeout experiences, as WREG reported.
On another culinary front, Belly Acres is preparing to introduce its family-friendly burger concept to Bartlett's food scene. The anticipated opening, scheduled for early 2026, will mark a significant development within the expansive $162 million Union Depot mixed-use initiative. Prior to this venture, Belly Acres shuttered its Midtown outpost back in September 2023. The burger joint, known for its emphasis on grass-fed products and sizable salads, is framing its debut on the historic grounds of the old Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home along Highway 70, as documented by a report from Action News 5.
The implications for the community are substantial, as expressed by Barry Maynard, Gill Properties senior vice president, who emphasized the restaurant's compatibility with the neighborhood. "We wanted it to be kid-friendly. We didn’t want a restaurant that would be bar-heavy with a bunch of alcohol," Maynard told the WREG. Belly Acres aims to provide a welcoming atmosphere for families, an ethos in alignment with the overall spirit of a Bartlett’s Union Depot project.
Highlighting the strategic partnerships in the project, Gill Properties senior vice presidents Barry Maynard and Frank Dyer III are handling the leasing of the commercial space. In a statement obtained by the Daily Memphian, Keith Grant of Blue Sky Communities, who is developing the former Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home site, conveyed the local anticipation. "It’s something that’s really needed in the Bartlett area," Grant remarked, recognizing the positive impact that the family-oriented venue is expected to contribute to the area’s dynamic.
