Memphis is music, history & culture. Memphis is barbeque, fried food & amazing restaurants. Memphis is Beale Street, live performances & a one-of-a-kind nightlife. The Bluff City can be whatever you want it to be. Here I offer a few of the hotspots, highlights & hideaways (all within walking distance) that make Memphis so special to me.
This is MY Memphis.
This is MY Memphis.
FOOD
The Arcade Restaurant (Breakfast)
The Arcade is one of the oldest continuously-running & family-owned businesses in Memphis. More than your ordinary greasy spoon, get here early, or be prepared to wait for 30-60 minutes for a table.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu | Open Table
The Arcade is one of the oldest continuously-running & family-owned businesses in Memphis. More than your ordinary greasy spoon, get here early, or be prepared to wait for 30-60 minutes for a table.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu | Open Table
The Green Beetle (Lunch/Dinner)
The Green Beetle is the oldest tavern in Memphis & serves up some amazing food along with an outstanding beer selection. If you can eat an entire Big Frank Burger you will have my respect...& indigestion. Established in 1939, The Green Beetle is still run by the grandson of the original proprietor. "Have a beer here...your grandfather did!"
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
The Green Beetle is the oldest tavern in Memphis & serves up some amazing food along with an outstanding beer selection. If you can eat an entire Big Frank Burger you will have my respect...& indigestion. Established in 1939, The Green Beetle is still run by the grandson of the original proprietor. "Have a beer here...your grandfather did!"
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken (Lunch/Dinner)
Everyone knows Gus's! If you don't, you should! And once you've had this chicken, there's no going back!
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Everyone knows Gus's! If you don't, you should! And once you've had this chicken, there's no going back!
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Aldo's Pizza Pies (Lunch/Dinner)
Aldo's is an amazing local pizza place that blows all the franchise operations out of the water. Stop in for a daily slice of whatever they're serving with a local draught beer or try the amazing vodka pizza with pepperoni (my personal favorite)!
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Aldo's is an amazing local pizza place that blows all the franchise operations out of the water. Stop in for a daily slice of whatever they're serving with a local draught beer or try the amazing vodka pizza with pepperoni (my personal favorite)!
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Oshi Burger Bar (Lunch/Dinner)
If you're prepared to throw your diet (as well as your clean white shirt) out the window, dive into a smoke stack burger, truffle garlic fries & a Godzilla "boozy" shake. You may not feel good about your waisteline afterward, but your tastebuds won't complain.
Website | Phone | Map | Open Table
If you're prepared to throw your diet (as well as your clean white shirt) out the window, dive into a smoke stack burger, truffle garlic fries & a Godzilla "boozy" shake. You may not feel good about your waisteline afterward, but your tastebuds won't complain.
Website | Phone | Map | Open Table
South Main Sushi & Grill (Lunch/Dinner)
If you have a craving for sushi, I recommend you head south as opposed to north. I used to be a fan of Bluefin, but I've not been crazy about the food, service or cleanliness under the new management. South Main Sushi has a good variety of options & excellent prices. The edamame is hit or miss, but I can't recall ever ordering a sushi roll I didn't enjoy.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
If you have a craving for sushi, I recommend you head south as opposed to north. I used to be a fan of Bluefin, but I've not been crazy about the food, service or cleanliness under the new management. South Main Sushi has a good variety of options & excellent prices. The edamame is hit or miss, but I can't recall ever ordering a sushi roll I didn't enjoy.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
The Majestic Grille (Lunch/Dinner)
This is a great place to grab a quick bite to eat before a show at the Orpheum. If you dine any other night, take your time & look over the impresive menu full of amazing culinary delights. While you eat, silent films play on the large screen on the wall of this converted movie theatre.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
This is a great place to grab a quick bite to eat before a show at the Orpheum. If you dine any other night, take your time & look over the impresive menu full of amazing culinary delights. While you eat, silent films play on the large screen on the wall of this converted movie theatre.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Blues City Cafe (Lunch/Dinner/Late)
Blues City Cafe on the corner of Beale & 2nd streets is my pick for the best "wet ribs" in Memphis. These the classic fall-off-the-bone ribs you long for, slathered in sweet BBQ sauce with just the right amount of spice. See if you can spot Tom Cruise's late night study spot from the movie adaptation of John Grisham's "The Firm".
Website | Phone | Map | Menu | Open Table
Blues City Cafe on the corner of Beale & 2nd streets is my pick for the best "wet ribs" in Memphis. These the classic fall-off-the-bone ribs you long for, slathered in sweet BBQ sauce with just the right amount of spice. See if you can spot Tom Cruise's late night study spot from the movie adaptation of John Grisham's "The Firm".
Website | Phone | Map | Menu | Open Table
Charlie Vergos Rendezvous (Dinner)
Everybody has their favorite rib joint & this is definitely my choice for the classic Memphis dry rub-style ribs. You might be wondering what you've gotten yourself into as you walk down the alley to main entrance, but trust me: you'll love it!! Closed Sundays & Mondays. No reservations permitted; be prepared for a wait if you have a large group. I would recommend you get your name on the list & then go upstairs to order a pitcher of beer; they'll call you when a table is ready.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Everybody has their favorite rib joint & this is definitely my choice for the classic Memphis dry rub-style ribs. You might be wondering what you've gotten yourself into as you walk down the alley to main entrance, but trust me: you'll love it!! Closed Sundays & Mondays. No reservations permitted; be prepared for a wait if you have a large group. I would recommend you get your name on the list & then go upstairs to order a pitcher of beer; they'll call you when a table is ready.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Rizzo's Diner (Dinner)
Chef Michael Patrick has outdone himself with amazing menu of unique Southern fair. You're guaranteed to find something you love on the menu. If it all looks good & you're not sure want to order, just make sure you try the
lobster pronto pups. You won't be sorry!
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Chef Michael Patrick has outdone himself with amazing menu of unique Southern fair. You're guaranteed to find something you love on the menu. If it all looks good & you're not sure want to order, just make sure you try the
lobster pronto pups. You won't be sorry!
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Catherine & Mary's (Dinner)
A relatively new spot within the Memphis restaurant scene, Catherine & Mary's has an impressive menu of unique flavors both for food & cocktails. Call ahead for a reservation.
Website | Phone | Map | Open Table
A relatively new spot within the Memphis restaurant scene, Catherine & Mary's has an impressive menu of unique flavors both for food & cocktails. Call ahead for a reservation.
Website | Phone | Map | Open Table
Flight (Dinner)
It ain't cheap & you are unlikely to be able to sit anywhere but the bar without a reservation, but Flight is known for consistently great food & unique options. As the name would imply, the menu is full of a variety of food & drinks flights to tempt you. Complimentary valet (but why wouldn't you just walk?).
Website | Phone | Map | Menu | Open Table
It ain't cheap & you are unlikely to be able to sit anywhere but the bar without a reservation, but Flight is known for consistently great food & unique options. As the name would imply, the menu is full of a variety of food & drinks flights to tempt you. Complimentary valet (but why wouldn't you just walk?).
Website | Phone | Map | Menu | Open Table
NIGHTLIFE
Beale Street
If this is your first trip to Memphis, head on down to Beale Street. Is it a tourist trap? Of course it is. But it's still worth a visit, even if just to say you were there.
If this is your first trip to Memphis, head on down to Beale Street. Is it a tourist trap? Of course it is. But it's still worth a visit, even if just to say you were there.
Silky O'Sullivan's
A Memphis classic! Silky's is my favorite watering hole on Beale Street. Where else can you listen to foul-mouthed dueling piano players & drink with the world-famous goats while eating some classic Memphis BBQ or fresh oysters? Order a diver...if you dare! Silky passed away in 2013, but his legend will live on forever.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
A Memphis classic! Silky's is my favorite watering hole on Beale Street. Where else can you listen to foul-mouthed dueling piano players & drink with the world-famous goats while eating some classic Memphis BBQ or fresh oysters? Order a diver...if you dare! Silky passed away in 2013, but his legend will live on forever.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Earnestine & Hazel's
E&H's is a can't miss stop during your Memphis trip! Many a movie has been filmed here, the jukebox is rumored to be haunted & the late night Soul Burgers are LEGENDARY! Did I mention the upstairs used to be a brothel? Don't believe me? Go check out the bathtubs that are still in the bathrooms. While you're upstairs (if it's late), make sure you grab a drink from Nate. It's a cash-only operation, but he's always good for a great story!
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
E&H's is a can't miss stop during your Memphis trip! Many a movie has been filmed here, the jukebox is rumored to be haunted & the late night Soul Burgers are LEGENDARY! Did I mention the upstairs used to be a brothel? Don't believe me? Go check out the bathtubs that are still in the bathrooms. While you're upstairs (if it's late), make sure you grab a drink from Nate. It's a cash-only operation, but he's always good for a great story!
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Absinthe Room
If you're tired of the same ol' scene on Beale, head UPSTAIRS to the Absinthe Room above Kings Palace Cafe. The entrance from the street is easy to overlook, but it's a nice little secret hideaway amidst all the craziness & it's a great vantage point to look down on Beale Street.
Website | Phone | Map
If you're tired of the same ol' scene on Beale, head UPSTAIRS to the Absinthe Room above Kings Palace Cafe. The entrance from the street is easy to overlook, but it's a nice little secret hideaway amidst all the craziness & it's a great vantage point to look down on Beale Street.
Website | Phone | Map
Silly Goose
This is a nice place to grab a drink with a fully-stocked bar & some unique concoctions on the menu. Non-smokers might avoid this stop as it's one of the few remaining smoker-friendly establishments downtown.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
This is a nice place to grab a drink with a fully-stocked bar & some unique concoctions on the menu. Non-smokers might avoid this stop as it's one of the few remaining smoker-friendly establishments downtown.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Blind Bear
This is a favorite of many of my friends, but to be honest, I never really found the appeal myself. Blind Bear fancies itself a speakeasy, but having been to few such establishments in other cities, I'm not sure this qualifies. You can avoid paying cover on Friday & Saturday nights if you know the password (link below), which inevitably is some variant of "_____ sent me."
Website | Phone | Map | Password
This is a favorite of many of my friends, but to be honest, I never really found the appeal myself. Blind Bear fancies itself a speakeasy, but having been to few such establishments in other cities, I'm not sure this qualifies. You can avoid paying cover on Friday & Saturday nights if you know the password (link below), which inevitably is some variant of "_____ sent me."
Website | Phone | Map | Password
Belle Tavern
A newer haunt I've recently stumpled upon, despite being somewhat hidden in Barboro Alley, Belle Tavern serves up serves up some unique & impressive cocktails in a beautiful oak room.
Website | Phone | Map
A newer haunt I've recently stumpled upon, despite being somewhat hidden in Barboro Alley, Belle Tavern serves up serves up some unique & impressive cocktails in a beautiful oak room.
Website | Phone | Map
Paula & Raiford's Disco
If it's after midnight on Friday or Saturday night, you have a slight buzz, a $20 bill in your pocket & you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, make your way to Paula & Raiford's Disco. Fake smoke, classic hits & Jheri curls abound; order a "40" at the bar...you're night is about to take a turn for the bizarre. Just don't say you weren't warned!
Website | Phone | Map
If it's after midnight on Friday or Saturday night, you have a slight buzz, a $20 bill in your pocket & you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, make your way to Paula & Raiford's Disco. Fake smoke, classic hits & Jheri curls abound; order a "40" at the bar...you're night is about to take a turn for the bizarre. Just don't say you weren't warned!
Website | Phone | Map
SIGHTS
Big River Crossing (Walking/Bike Trail)
This new trail is the longest public pedestrian/bike bridge across the Mississippi River with amazing views of the Memphis skyline. The bridge is nearly a mile in length (2 miles roundtrip) & connects Tennessee to Arkansas.
Website | Map
This new trail is the longest public pedestrian/bike bridge across the Mississippi River with amazing views of the Memphis skyline. The bridge is nearly a mile in length (2 miles roundtrip) & connects Tennessee to Arkansas.
Website | Map
Tom Lee Park
Home to the Memphis in May music & BBQ festivals, Tom Lee Park is where you can take those cliché pictures of the Hernando de Soto Bridge or Memphis skyline. If you have an hour to kill & want to catch some amazing views of the mighty Mississippi, this is the place!
Website | Phone | Map
Home to the Memphis in May music & BBQ festivals, Tom Lee Park is where you can take those cliché pictures of the Hernando de Soto Bridge or Memphis skyline. If you have an hour to kill & want to catch some amazing views of the mighty Mississippi, this is the place!
Website | Phone | Map
Twilight Sky Terrace
This beautiful spot atop the Madison Hotel offers the most amazing views of the Mississippi River in all of Memphis. Definitely worth stopping in for a drink & a photo op.
Website | Phone | Map
This beautiful spot atop the Madison Hotel offers the most amazing views of the Mississippi River in all of Memphis. Definitely worth stopping in for a drink & a photo op.
Website | Phone | Map
Memphis Zoo
The world-class Memphis Zoo is located in Midtown, so you'd have to drive or grab an Uber, but it's worth it! The Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals & has proudly represented Memphis for more than 100 years. It's rated as one of the top 5 zoos in the country new exhibits popping up all the time.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
The world-class Memphis Zoo is located in Midtown, so you'd have to drive or grab an Uber, but it's worth it! The Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals & has proudly represented Memphis for more than 100 years. It's rated as one of the top 5 zoos in the country new exhibits popping up all the time.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
The Peabody Hotel
The Peabody is an icon of downtown Memphis. Whether you go to watch the march of the historic Peabody ducks, have a drink at the Lobby Bar, or check out the amazing views from the rooftop, no trip to Memphis is complete without stopping in.
Website | Phone | Map
The Peabody is an icon of downtown Memphis. Whether you go to watch the march of the historic Peabody ducks, have a drink at the Lobby Bar, or check out the amazing views from the rooftop, no trip to Memphis is complete without stopping in.
Website | Phone | Map
Tennessee Brewery Building (Landmark)
Faced with demolition in 2014, a local developer (& minority owner of the Memphis Grizzlies) stepped in to save this Memphis landmark. The Tennessee Brewery is currently under renovation after sitting vacant for decades & will serve the next generations of Memphians as condominiums & a shopping space.
Website | Map
Faced with demolition in 2014, a local developer (& minority owner of the Memphis Grizzlies) stepped in to save this Memphis landmark. The Tennessee Brewery is currently under renovation after sitting vacant for decades & will serve the next generations of Memphians as condominiums & a shopping space.
Website | Map
culture
National Civil Rights Museum
If you're in Memphis for even 24 hours, you need to make a concerted effort to visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel. Recently renovated, the NCRM is moving, impactful & beautiful all at the same time. Whether you spend an hour or 5 hours, just make sure you go!
Website | Phone | Map
If you're in Memphis for even 24 hours, you need to make a concerted effort to visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel. Recently renovated, the NCRM is moving, impactful & beautiful all at the same time. Whether you spend an hour or 5 hours, just make sure you go!
Website | Phone | Map
Sun Studio
If you came to see the birthplace of rock & roll, head straight down Union Ave. to Sun Studio! This recording studio started by Sam Phillips in 1950 has seen more hits than virtually any other place in Memphis & has memories of Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Roy Orbison & so many more!
Website | Phone | Map
If you came to see the birthplace of rock & roll, head straight down Union Ave. to Sun Studio! This recording studio started by Sam Phillips in 1950 has seen more hits than virtually any other place in Memphis & has memories of Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, Roy Orbison & so many more!
Website | Phone | Map
ENTERTAINMENT
FedEx Forum
The Forum is home to the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies & hosts some amazing concerts. Check the calendar of events & try to see an event in this incredible venue. You won't regret it!
Website | Phone | Map | Events
The Forum is home to the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies & hosts some amazing concerts. Check the calendar of events & try to see an event in this incredible venue. You won't regret it!
Website | Phone | Map | Events
Orpheum Theatre
The Orpheum is a beautiful gem on South Main that hosts touring Broadway productions & smaller concerts.
Website | Phone | Map | Events
The Orpheum is a beautiful gem on South Main that hosts touring Broadway productions & smaller concerts.
Website | Phone | Map | Events
AutoZone Park
AutoZone Park is home to the Memphis Redbirds, triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. One of the most impressive stadiums in minor league baseball, you'll typically find a reasonable ticket price & a great way to spend an afternoon.
Website | Phone | Map
AutoZone Park is home to the Memphis Redbirds, triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. One of the most impressive stadiums in minor league baseball, you'll typically find a reasonable ticket price & a great way to spend an afternoon.
Website | Phone | Map
Old Dominick Distillery
Old Dominick is a new arrival to the neighborhood founded by an old Memphis family. The distillery is open to the public for tours, tastings, and special events. Stop by & enjoy a Memphis Toddy or vodka in the absolutely beatiful tasting room. They spared no expense in making this one of the most breathtaking event spaces in Memphis with an incredible rooftop view of the Mississippi river & the Hernando de Soto Bridge. This is definitely worth checking out!
Website | Phone | Map | Tours
Old Dominick is a new arrival to the neighborhood founded by an old Memphis family. The distillery is open to the public for tours, tastings, and special events. Stop by & enjoy a Memphis Toddy or vodka in the absolutely beatiful tasting room. They spared no expense in making this one of the most breathtaking event spaces in Memphis with an incredible rooftop view of the Mississippi river & the Hernando de Soto Bridge. This is definitely worth checking out!
Website | Phone | Map | Tours
Ghost River Tap Room & Brewery
Ghost River is a great microbrewery with an impressive new tasting room on South Main. You'll find an impressive array of regular & seasonal beers along with a fun brewer's series that always keeps things fresh!
Website | Phone | Map
Ghost River is a great microbrewery with an impressive new tasting room on South Main. You'll find an impressive array of regular & seasonal beers along with a fun brewer's series that always keeps things fresh!
Website | Phone | Map
OTHER
Bluff City Coffee (Coffee Shop)
If you want to engage in some good ol' people watchin', you might saunter on down to Bluff City Coffee & pony up to a chair facing out toward South Main. Perhaps my favorite upscale coffee shop in Memphis, you can always count on consistent quality & excellent customer service.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
If you want to engage in some good ol' people watchin', you might saunter on down to Bluff City Coffee & pony up to a chair facing out toward South Main. Perhaps my favorite upscale coffee shop in Memphis, you can always count on consistent quality & excellent customer service.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Tamp & Tap (Coffee Shop)
If you prefer your morning brew to be sourced locally as opposed to Seattle, this might be your place. Tamp & Tap offers gourmet coffee, food & local craft beers on tap.
Website | Phone | Map
If you prefer your morning brew to be sourced locally as opposed to Seattle, this might be your place. Tamp & Tap offers gourmet coffee, food & local craft beers on tap.
Website | Phone | Map
City Market (Groceries & Deli)
There's no major supermarket on South Main, but City Market is a great place to pick up some fresh groceries to stock the refrigerator.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
There's no major supermarket on South Main, but City Market is a great place to pick up some fresh groceries to stock the refrigerator.
Website | Phone | Map | Menu
Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid (Shopping)
Once a basketball arena for the Memphis Grizzlies & Memphis Tigers, the Pyramid is now home to the largest Bass Pro Shops in the country. Come check out the live fish & alligator displays, the amazing animal taxidermy, or the various arcade shooting games throughout the store. For a fee, you can also take a ride up the tallest free-standing elevator in North America to see some breathtaking views of Memphis!
Website | Phone | Map
Once a basketball arena for the Memphis Grizzlies & Memphis Tigers, the Pyramid is now home to the largest Bass Pro Shops in the country. Come check out the live fish & alligator displays, the amazing animal taxidermy, or the various arcade shooting games throughout the store. For a fee, you can also take a ride up the tallest free-standing elevator in North America to see some breathtaking views of Memphis!
Website | Phone | Map