Making a Masterpiece: Mary Wallace

Mary Wallace

Banquet Chef - Guest House at Graceland

As Banquet Chef at the Guest House at Graceland, Mary Wallace often receives compliments on her creations, but one specialty item designed especially for the showing of Elvis impressed one guest. Mary’s Elvis Peanut Butter and Banana Sandwich treat was so good, the patron tracked Mary down to ask for more. Not only did Mary oblige within 20 minutes, she did so with a big smile. "This experience exemplified all the attributes Elvis Presley himself was known for…” raved the guest. “Talk about Southern hospitality and Southern comfort food!"

Meet the 2022 Annual Pick Award Winner for Restaurants, Mary Wallace!

How long have you been in the hospitality industry?

Thirteen years.

What is your favorite part of the hospitality industry? 

Meeting the guests and making them happy.

What’s one positive memory of a guest experience that sticks out to you? 

I enjoy everything about the experience that I am able to give our guests. If they come in and have an issue with another department, I’m happy if I can uplift their experience and their day. And I’m able to get up and go to work to do it all over again.

What are three things in Memphis you would recommend to visitors to eat or see while they are in town? 

Wow, everything! Rendezvous, Babalu, and come and see me at The Guest House. We have a lot of restaurants there! 

Can you give us any tips for success for anyone entering the hospitality industry as a career? 

Come in with your shoes on fire and be ready to rock and roll. There are lots of opportunities to learn and grow. And just be awesome.

We’d say mission accomplished on that last one, Mary! Thank you for being awesome!