I would actually argue for Poplar and I-240. Because of the I-240/I-40 construction, most times of day anyone not out by Wolfchase already is going to take way to long getting out there.
Speaking only for myself, if I weren't in a financially imposed retirement, the Poplar/I-240 area is very good for me. Because of where I live, it's basically just a straight shot east on Poplar, and I'm there... no fooling around with the freeways and those damned interchanges under construction.
Not to bust your bubble but Oak Court Mall is not safe anymore. I guess if you look at it not many places in Memphis are safe. Cars are broken into in the wide open daylight.
Lady was robbed, stuffed in trunk of a car last week in Overton Park after a concert. Somehow she got out on Poplar and to my knowledge the thugs are still on the loose.