Memphis Restaurant Approved for Patio Grant
The Center City Development Corp awarded funds to The Lobbyist for planned patio renovations in downtown Memphis.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Dining Out
Live Poll
Should local government agencies provide grants to help private restaurants fund their patio renovations?
On Sept 16, the Center City Development Corp approved an exterior improvement grant for The Lobbyist, located at 272 S Main St in Memphis. The funding will support upgrades designed to make the restaurant's outdoor space usable throughout the year.
Why it matters
These improvements aim to increase the utility of the restaurant's outdoor seating area, allowing the business to serve guests year-round regardless of weather conditions.
The Center City Development Corp approved a $34,893 exterior improvement grant, covering half of the $69,786 total estimated construction budget. The project includes the addition of a covered walkway, motorized screens, and upgraded lighting.
The players
The Lobbyist
This restaurant is located in downtown Memphis and operates out of The Chisca on Main apartment building.
Center City Development Corp
This organization manages development grants and economic improvement projects within the downtown Memphis area.
The details
The restaurant plans to install a covered walkway connecting its indoor space to the existing patio, alongside motorized screens to enclose the area. These enhancements are intended to provide climate control and extended usability for the patio, which is situated at The Chisca on Main.
Timeline
The Lobbyist restaurant officially opened in January 2023.
The Center City Development Corp approved the grant on Sept 16, 2026.
Construction on the patio upgrades is scheduled to begin in late 2026.
Culture Shift
The renovation project reflects a broader trend of downtown establishments investing in permanent infrastructure to maximize square footage. By upgrading outdoor spaces to be year-round venues, restaurants are better positioning themselves to maintain consistent revenue in urban corridors.
Patrons of The Lobbyist can expect a more versatile dining experience once the construction is finished. The addition of motorized screens and a covered walkway will provide weather protection, likely increasing the availability of patio seating during off-peak seasons.
The takeaway
Investing in climate-controlled outdoor spaces can help local restaurants maintain profitability throughout the calendar year. Business owners can look to municipal development grants as a viable pathway for financing these types of structural facility upgrades.
What happens next
Construction on the patio area is projected to commence in late 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the local restaurant scene in the Memphis Dining Out section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Commercial Appeal.
Live Poll
Should local government agencies provide grants to help private restaurants fund their patio renovations?
