A Memphis pizza restaurant, Tamboli's Pasta & Pizza, has experienced a significant increase in business following its refusal to serve uniformed members of the National Guard on July 11, 2026. Owner Miles Tamboli opposed the federally led Memphis Safe Task Force, arguing that the deployment of National Guard troops in local law enforcement has made the city less safe rather than more secure.

The incident drew national attention and sparked severe online backlash after the refusal to serve four National Guard members. However, Tamboli told Fox News Digital on July 15, "I stand behind that decision completely." The Guardian reported that local response has been supportive, with the restaurant opening to a full house and a line waiting by 5:30 p.m.

Waitstaff noted that the shop had never been that crowded so early, and extra crew was brought in to accommodate the surge. Tamboli confirmed business is up "a great amount," citing the packed house as evidence.

Customer Carol Bigam, a retired FedEx worker, expressed support, stating, "If you have a business — a small family-owned business — that says, ‘You know what, I’m sorry, I can’t serve you, I just don’t believe you should be here,’ it really should be OK. Is he not allowed free speech? He was very professional about it. Give me a break, man."

Tamboli also emphasized that while he does not blame the National Guard for being in Memphis since it was not their choice, he supports businesses refusing service as a form of resistance and protest.

The refusal comes amid broader discussions about public safety, including reports of a 20-year-old Memphian named Tyrin Johnson who was shot and killed by National Guard troops during a foot chase earlier in July 2026. There was no body camera footage available, and his family has yet to receive answers.

Meanwhile, in Chicago, escalating violent crime has prompted President Trump to repeatedly offer National Guard deployment, a proposal criticized by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson for lacking understanding of local safety needs.

Sources