Named after a character in the blues song “Wang Dang Doodle,” Automatic Slim’s Tonga Club has been at the top of the Memphis dining scene for close to a decade, yet it still manages to be both consistently delicious and consistently surprising. Rotating art lines the wall, stairs lead up to a balcony seating area, and the waiters wear guayaberas. The zebra-skin barstools and sculptured light fixtures are whimsical, making it clear to diners that this hip restaurant refuses to take itself too seriously. Despite the interesting design, the inventive menu is the star. The cuisine is a major cut above the rib and barbeque joints so prevalent in the neighborhood and is a welcome relief for non-carnivores. On any given night you can expect unique combinations that mix Caribbean, Asian and Southwestern influences to create surprising taste sensations. There are plenty of seafood and vegetarian dishes on the menu, and the kitchen keeps serving until late, when the bar becomes the main attraction. For weekday lunch and dinner every night but Sunday, Automatic Slim’s Tonga Club is the best choice in the tourist district.