Whether you’re seeking a swanky cocktail bar to entertain visitors, a low-lit wine bar for a romantic date, a grimy dive bar for a cheap beer and a rock show, a taproom offering craft beer, or a disco-pumping party playground to dance until the wee hours of the morning, Memphis’ bar and club scene has you covered. Here’s a list of our favorite bars, clubs, and taprooms (in alphabetical order).
A-Tan — You’ve never had a drink like the Flaming Volcano (unless, of course, you’ve already been to this University-area Asian joint and ordered one). This kitschy cocktail of rum, brandy, pineapple juice, orange juice, and almond syrup is served in the moat of a volcano-shaped glass, and in the volcano’s crater is a flaming shot of Bacardi 151. Order one to share, and while you’re at it, sample from A-Tan’s dual menus of Chinese and Japanese fare. 3445 Poplar, Suite 17, 452-4477 (Chinese side) or 458-8877 (Japanese side)
Agave Maria — If tequila is your jam, you’ve found nirvana. This Mexican restaurant and bar offers more than 100 varieties of agave spirits, many of which are high-end and hard to come by. There’s also a large selection of Mexican beers and hand-crafted cocktails to pair with Agave’s menu of tapas, tacos, and enchiladas. 83 Union, 341-2096
Alchemy — If alchemy were real, it would certainly have life-changing potential. And while it’s doubtful you’ll find the elixir of immortality on the cocktail menu at this swanky Cooper-Young bar, the lovingly hand-crafted drinks there come darn close. Sit back on one of the lounge chairs and order the Memphis Takes Manhattan (your choice of whiskey or rye or bourbon with vermouth, bitters, and brandy-infused cherries). Alchemy also boasts a huge menu of premium bourbon and scotch. 940 S. Cooper, 726-4444
Alex’s Tavern — Life-changing moments are more likely to happen when you’re awake. And you can stay up and party until the wee hours of the morning at this north Midtown after-hours dive. The jukebox features some 5,000 songs to choose from, and the kitchen cranks out burgers and fries all night. 1445 Jackson, 278-9086
B.B. King’s Blues Club — The Blues Boy may have gone on to that great blues hall in the sky, but his spirit lives on at this Beale Street juke joint. The bar features live entertainment — mostly blues and soul acts — every night of the week, and it’s a must-visit for Memphis tourists. Grab a seat on the indoor balcony that overlooks the stage and order a glass of wine and a platter of fried green tomatoes. 143 Beale, 524-KING
Babalu Tacos & Tapas — Give us a spacious patio, a massive bowl of guacamole, a basket of house-made tortilla chips, and an ice-cold margarita, and we’re set for life. Or at least an hour or two. At Babalu in Overton Square, you can kick back and soak up the sun with gourmet tacos, made-at-the-table guac, and a menu of fancy Mexican-themed cocktails. 2115 Madison, 274-0100
Bar DKDC — You might never get a chance to travel the globe. But a meal and cocktail from Bar DKDC in Cooper-Young may be the next best thing. This tiny bar offers a rotating menu of global street fare that changes every five weeks and live music that ranges from sweet soul to doo-wop. 964 S. Cooper, 272-0830
Bar Louie — Located on the hottest corner in Midtown, this Overton Square martini bar is perfect for people-watching. Its patio wraps around the corner of Madison and Cooper, so grab a seat and order a S’mores martini (made with vodka, chocolate liqueur, toasted marshmallow syrup, and a graham cracker-crusted rim). 2125 Madison, 207-1436
Blind Bear Speakeasy — This downtown Prohibition-themed cocktail bar gives Memphians a chance to step back in time to the days of gangsters and gun molls. Order the Bootlegger’s Mule (moonshine, ginger beer, and simple syrup served in a Mason jar) for the most authentic experience. 119 S. Main, 417-8435
Boscos — If a drink is going to change your life, it has to be homemade. And the beer served at this Overton Square brewpub is made in-house. It’s even used to flavor the crust for their wood-fired pizzas. One sip of Boscos’ award-winning Flaming Stone Beer (a North American steinbier with notes of caramel) and a bite of the Germantown Purist pizza (barbecue chicken with smoked mozzarella) and you’ll never be the same. 2120 Madison, 432-2222
The Brass Door — If soccer is your thing, you’ll find a home away from home at this lively Irish pub. It’s the official home of the Memphis Gooners, the local Arsenals fan club. Guinness is on tap, and Irish breakfast is served all day, every day. 152 Madison, 572-1813
Brookhaven Pub & Grill — Everyone needs a home base bar, and that’s what Brookhaven is to so many East Memphians with a taste for sports and pub grub. Catch all the Grizz action on multiple high-definition TVs. Order a plate of barbecue nachos and a bucket of brews to share with friends. It’s like home away from home. 695 Brookhaven Circle, 680-8118
The Buccaneer — You may think you’ve stumbled into the belly of a rustic boat, but never fear — you’re just inside The Bucc, as its loyal hipster patrons call it. This tiny bar features nautical décor, cheap PBR, and a roster of local and traveling musical acts that range from fledging punk bands to bluesy singer-songwriters. 1368 Monroe, 278-0909
Celtic Crossing — You may never get a chance to travel to Ireland and kiss the Blarney Stone, but that’s okay because this Cooper-Young Irish pub is the next best thing. Owner D.J. Naylor hails from Ireland, so he offers an authentic experience with Guinness on tap, a menu of corned beef sliders and bangers and mash, and broadcasts of soccer games. The spacious, covered patio is second-to-none, and it’s heated in the winter. 903 S. Cooper, 274-5151
Club Spectrum — The city’s only LGBT dance club caters to a mostly younger crowd of twentysomethings, so don’t bother showing up before midnight. That’s when the crowd pours in to watch two nightly drag shows and dance the night away on Spectrum’s large dance floor. There’s a game room for those seeking a quieter evening, and there’s a public stage with a dance pole for anyone daring enough to show off their skills (but please leave the clothes on — Spectrum doesn’t allow stripping). 616 Marshall, 612-1911
The Cove — From the safety of Broad Avenue you can pretend to drink your hand-crafted cocktail aboard a pirate ship when you sit at the ship-shaped bar (complete with sails jutting out from the wall) at The Cove. This popular oyster bar caters to the hipster set and is best-known for its massive list of artisan cocktails. Since rum is the official drink of pirates, try the Hot Lips, a Bloody Mary made with rum. 2559 Broad, 730-0719
Dirty Crow Inn — Located just on the western edge of town, right before the old bridge crosses the Mississippi River, this no-frills dive bar serves up plenty of cold brews (including a nice selection of local craft beers) and a simple menu of burgers, po’boys, wings, fried pickles, and poutine. 855 Kentucky, 614-2309
Dru’s Place — If the bar on Cheers were a gay bar, this would be it. Everyone knows everyone at Dru’s, and when a new person comes in the door, they’re greeted with open arms. Owner Tami Montgomery remembers every face, so you’ll be a regular in no time. Weekend drag shows and karaoke nights attract standing-room-only crowds. To get the most booze for your dollar, check out the Thursday and Saturday night $5 beer busts. 1474 Madison, 725-8082
Evelyn & Olive — Order a Dark ’n’ Stormy, some jerk wings, and fish stew and be whisked away to the island of Jamaica at Evelyn & Olive. This casual Caribbean eatery offers authentic cuisine and hand-crafted Jamaican cocktails. Don't say we didn't warn you: The rum punch is strong, and one (or maybe two) is all you need. 630 Madison, 748-5422
Earnestine & Hazel’s — Get a taste of Memphis history in this dimly lit South Main dive. The building was opened as a pharmacy in the early 1900s. But it eventually became a nightclub/brothel, where musicians who’d performed at the nearby Club Paradise would frequent for hook-ups. The old brothel rooms are still there, so Earnestine & Hazel’s patrons can have a cold one (and a greasy Soul Burger) with the wild ghosts of Memphis’ seedy past. Pop into the 5 Spot, the restaurant in the back of the bar, for a classier experience and hand-crafted cocktails. 84 East G.E. Patterson, 523-9754
Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar — Can’t decide on a glass of wine? No problem. As the name of this upscale Downtown eatery implies, you can order a flight of wine by varietal and region. For example, the Wonders of the World flight features a Côtes du Rhône from France, a Chianti from Italy, and a Shiraz from Australia. And yes, it’s wonderful. 39 S. Main, 521-8005
Flying Saucer — Choices, choices. You’ll have your share of them at this casual bar that boasts more than 200 beer options. Professional drinkers can have their ability to imbibe immortalized on a plate on the wall if they sample all the Flying Saucer has to offer. Now that’s something mom can be proud of! 130 Peabody Place, 523-7468; 1400 N. Germantown Pkwy., 755-5530
Hi-Tone — This Crosstown live music venue is a Memphis institution, and punk rockers and metal heads flock here by the dozens. Local and touring musical acts — mostly from the aforementioned genres — play here several nights a week. But if death metal isn’t your thing, you can always sip your tall-boy PBR in the lounge side of the bar. 412-414 N. Cleveland, 278-8663.
High Cotton Brewing Co. — This local craft brewery prides itself on beers that pay homage to our Southern heritage. Stained wood beams give the Edge District taproom a rustic ambience, and the hand-crafted brews don’t disappoint. Fans of dark beers will love the full-bodied Scottish Ale, while the ESB (extra-special bitter) is a favorite of hop-lovers. 598 Monroe, 543-4444.
King Jerry Lawler’s Hall of Fame Bar & Grille — Drink and dine like The King on Beale. No, not that king, silly. We’re talking about Memphis’ other king — the King of Wrasslin’. It’s the perfect place to throw back a few beers while noshing on some Memphis classics, like barbecue nachos, fresh fried pork rinds, and Lawler’s “famous” slamburger (a triple stack, all-beef burger with all the fixin’s). 159 Beale, 523-1940
Lafayette’s Music Room — Some 38 years after the original Lafayette’s in Overton Square closed its doors, it reopened in the same location in 2014. The bar boasts quite a rich history, helping to launch the careers of musical greats Billy Joel, KISS, and Big Star, among others. In its second incarnation, Lafayette’s has the potential to boost more careers. The music room hosts local and traveling musical acts every night of the week. 2119 Madison, 207-5097
Local Gastropub — Forget standard bar food. Local’s two locations — one in Overton Square and one in the South Main Arts District — serve gourmet pub grub (think shoestring fries with gouda fondue and garlic aioli) alongside craft beers and unique cocktails. Local also offers craft beer and whiskey flights for those who just can’t decide. 95 S. Main, 473-9573; 2126 Madison, 725-1845
Loflin Yard — South End’s old Loflin Safe & Lock Co. has been transformed into a hip neighborhood bar with a massive, shaded patio, barrel-aged artisan cocktails, an on-site wine shop, and sandwiches made from meats prepared in a smokehouse out back. The Gayoso Bayou runs through the patio via a waterfall and small creek. 7 W. Carolina, 249-3046
Memphis Made Brewing — This seasonal craft brewery is known for taking chances, and will try anything once. So head to its Cooper-Young taproom to sample some of the most distinctive craft beers in the city. Don’t be surprised to find coffee stouts brewed with cacao nibs, saisons with notes of candied ginger, and Scottish ales brewed with smoky cherry wood malts. Some beers are only offered on limited release, so try them while you can. 768 S. Cooper, 207-5343
Midtown Crossing — Residents of the up-and-coming Crosstown neighborhood convene at this friendly neighborhood bar for lovingly prepared pizzas, broadcasts of the big game, spoken word, art shows, and live music. Grab a local brew and try The Artist Pizza (tomato jam, mozzarella and chevre, caramelized onions, and fresh arugula). 394 N. Watkins, 410-9330
Minglewood Hall — This cavernous music hall is massive, so it tends to attract big-name musical acts from a span of genres — indie artists, rappers, EDM DJs, and ’90s alternative bands. Plus, Minglewood often plays host to nonprofit galas and even the occasional MMA fight. 555 Madison, 312-6058
Mollie Fontaine Lounge — Tucked into the charming Victorian Village neighborhood, this lounge is a favorite gathering place for the city’s LGBTQ set, although it’s not officially a gay bar. The bar is located inside a converted Victorian-era home, and its individual bedrooms, decorated with a mix of period antiques and 1960s kitsch furnishing, serve as lounging spaces. There’s live piano music in the parlor room. 679 Adams, 524-1886
Molly’s La Casita — Adobe-style décor and rustic charm transport patrons of this beloved Overton Square Tex-Mex joint to the border. The locally famous margaritas are made with a secret recipe, and they’ve attracted a legion of loyal regulars over the years. Menu items range from standard burritos and tacos to cheeseburgers and spicy chicken sandwiches. 2006 Madison, 726-1873
P&H Café — While we’re certain the P&H has offered a life-altering experience to many, we can say for sure that filmmaker Craig Brewer’s life was changed at this Midtown watering hole. It’s there that he penned his first screenplay, aptly named The Poor & Hungry, and his career has never looked back. The P&H’s beloved owner Wanda Wilson, who passed away in January 2015, was always a patron of the arts, so her laidback dive bar has naturally attracted artists, actors, playwrights, and various eccentrics over the years. 1532 Madison, 726-0906
Paula & Raiford’s Disco — Who says disco’s dead? The poppy glitter and glam of the late ’70s is very much alive inside this flashy discotheque. Memphis’ own “grandfather of disco” Robert Raiford — with his shiny cape and jerry curl — spins the oldies (and plenty of newer dance music) every weekend as his charismatic daughter Paula greets the crowd. Bring your dancing shoes and an appetite for 40-ounce beers. 14 S. Second, 521-2494
The Pumping Station — Once known as a hangout for gay men into the leather scene, this Crosstown-area bar now caters to the city’s entire LGBTQ community. The crowd still tends to be mostly male, but ladies are welcome. A treehouse built into the patio offers a unique hangout, and the new smoker’s lounge gives patrons a place to puff without annoying other customers. 1382 Poplar, 272-7600
Riverfront Bar & Grill — Have a drink on the banks of the Mississippi River at this bar tucked inside Beale Street Landing. A spacious, covered patio offers stunning river views, so be sure to stop by just before sunset. The food menu features dressed-up Southern fare, and the bar serves local beers on tap and a nice selection of wines. 251 Riverside, 528-3135
Slider Inn — As the name implies, tiny burgers are the specialty at this motorcycle-themed bar, and they come in all varieties — buffalo chicken, blue cheese and onion, falafel, fried egg, even PB&J. Slider offers a nice selection of local and craft brews, which are best enjoyed on the large, covered patio. 2117 Peabody, 725-1155
Tin Roof — Located in the heart of the Beale Street Entertainment District, this hip nightspot offers Southern hospitality, downhome eats (Southern staples, as well as tacos and quesadillas), country cocktails (try the Grit and Grind with moonshine, Peach schnapps, lemonade, Red Bull, and soda). Bonus: Tell the bartender to “bump your beer,” and they’ll trade out your pint for a 32-ounce draft for just $2 extra. 315 Beale, 527-9911
Wild Bill’s — This off-the-beaten-path juke joint, tucked away in a shopping strip in north Midtown, is the stuff of legends. The dance floor is always kickin’ to the sweet sounds of Wild Bill’s house band, and the big beers (they only come in 40-ounce bottles) are dirt cheap at $5 a pop. 1580 Vollintine, 726-5473
Wiseacre Brewing Co. — Deep in the heart of the Broad Avenue Arts District, the Bartosch brothers — Davin and Kellan — are always busy pumping out creative, inventive brews at Wiseacre. Visit their ultra-modern taproom for a taste of seasonal Belgian dubbels, barrel-aged imperial stouts, or fruity saisons. Or go with a classic Wiseacre standard — Tiny Bomb American pilsner or Ananda IPA. The taproom is open for tours on Saturdays. 2783 Broad, 888-7000
Young Avenue Deli — Nothing goes better with a cold, craft brew than hot, greasy fries, and this Cooper-Young watering hole has the best fries in town (they’ve won awards!). The Sam-I-Am sandwich is a good choice too. The joint also has plenty of pool tables, occasional live music, and a fine selection of beers on draft. 2119 Young, 278-0034
Zebra Lounge — Have it your way at this Overton Square lounge, where patrons can request covers to be performed by the bar’s rotating cast of local pianists. The classy joint is only the second such location in the country. The original Zebra Lounge opened in Chicago way back in 1929, making it that city’s second-oldest bar. 2114 Trimble Place, 249-8147
