Erling Jensen’s Small Bites, the restaurant and sports bar that offers a bistro-style menu crafted by renowned local chef Erling Jensen, along with Topgolf Swing Suites inside the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at 5069 Sanderlin Avenue, announced today that Chef John Bragg has joined the restaurant’s leadership team.

Chef Bragg brings a long and storied career in the Memphis culinary scene and is reuniting with Chef Erling Jensen, with whom he worked early in his career. In his new role, Bragg will oversee kitchen operations at Erling Jensen’s Small Bites, ensuring the quality, consistency, and execution that Chef Jensen expects across his restaurant kitchens and culinary teams.

A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, Chef Bragg began his culinary career in Memphis at La Tourelle, where he worked his way through every kitchen station before continuing his professional development under Chef Erling Jensen. He went on to become a respected chef and restaurateur, leading and owning several notable Memphis restaurants, including Circa, Babylon Café, La Montagne, La Tourelle, and River Oaks. Throughout his career, Bragg has earned a reputation for disciplined execution, thoughtful cuisine, and a commitment to mentoring strong culinary teams.

“Chef John and I have a long history that goes back to the early days of his career, and I have tremendous respect for the chef and leader he has become,” said Erling Jensen, Executive Chef Partner at Erling Jensen’s Small Bites. “Having him return to oversee our kitchen brings a level of experience, consistency, and mentorship that is invaluable to our team and our guests.”

Chef Bragg will work closely with the culinary and service teams to support the restaurant’s bistro-style offerings, approachable lunch specials, and evening menu designed to complement the energetic atmosphere of Small Bites and its Topgolf Swing Suites.

“I’m excited to team up with Chef Erling again and to be part of Erling Jensen’s Small Bites,” said Chef John Bragg. “This role allows me to focus on supporting the kitchen team, maintaining high standards, and delivering a consistent, high-quality experience for every guest.”

Erling Jensen’s Small Bites is open for lunch daily from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and open for dinner every day beginning at 4 p.m.

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Chef John Bragg

About Erling Jensen Small Bites
Erling Jensen Small Bites is a chef-driven restaurant and sports bar located inside the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at 5069 Sanderlin Avenue in Memphis, TN. The concept brings together a creative bistro-style menu by acclaimed Memphis chef Erling Jensen with the interactive fun of Topgolf Swing Suites.
The menu features a blend of upscale entrees, shareable small plates, sliders, and sandwiches—offering something for every appetite, from quick lunches to relaxed dinners. Daily lunch specials and a soup and salad bar round out the experience, along with a full-service bar featuring craft cocktails, wine, and beer.
Chef Erling Jensen is one of Memphis’ most respected culinary figures, known for his fine-dining legacy and bold, flavorful cuisine. With Small Bites, he delivers high-quality food in a more approachable and social setting.

For menus, hours, and reservations, visit www.swingsuitememphis.com.