Rocco
Tennessee is a riveting state, and Memphis plays a significant role in its cheerful reputation. The city is well-known for its delectable BBQ, live blues, and hospitable people. And its bars add to this allure with their creative cocktails, local beer on tap, and festive atmosphere. So if you’re looking for fun places to go out after exploring Beale Street or the National Civil Rights Museum, check out my list of the best bars in Memphis, Tennessee.
Board to Beers
2867 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38111
Phone: (901) 347-2787
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Board to Beers might sound like “bored to tears,” but you’ll be anything but bored at this popular board game bar! This bar, near Afro Music Stores in Hayden Place, is an exceptional choice for a group hangout any time of the week, as you can drink an array of beers while enjoying some friendly competition.
Earnestine & Hazel’s
531 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: (901) 523-9754
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Earnestine & Hazel’s is a relaxed bar near the National Civil Rights Museum. It has been running for such a long-time that some people swear it’s haunted. If you get a kick out of that myth, why not visit for some burgers, beer, and maybe some “haunted” stories? I especially love the live music here, which tends to wipe away any fear.
Alex’s Tavern
1445 Jackson Ave, Memphis, TN 38107
Phone: (901) 278-9086
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Alex’s Tavern, near the Memphis Zoo, is a fantastic spot for locals to meet up, play their favorite jams on the jukebox, and have a great time. I like going with my friends, ordering delicious beers and classic mixed drinks, and competing in shuffleboard. Make sure to try out their “world-famous” Greek burger — it’s juicy and delicious.
Bar DKDC
964 Cooper St, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 272-0830
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I think Bar DKDC is one of the coziest bars in Memphis due to the warm colors of red, orange, and yellow that blanket the walls and furniture. The bar also has a funky yet elegant atmosphere that makes it perfect for enjoying a night out with friends and dancing to live music in the Lenox area near Kroc Center Memphis.
Bardog Tavern
73 Monroe Ave, Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: (901) 275-8752
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Are you wondering where to get a drink after a long day of adventures? Bardog Tavern is one of the best bars in Memphis, Tennessee, due to its easygoing vibes and scrumptious fare. I like going to Bardog, located near The Cotton Museum, for weekend brunch and getting the lobster sandwich, then pairing it with a bloody mary or mimosa.
Blind Bear
119 S Main St ste 100, Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: (901) 417-8435
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Another Downtown Memphis fixture is Blind Bear, located near the Orpheum Theater. This spot is one of my top picks to stop at when exploring the downtown area because of its intimate speakeasy vibe. You can only get in with a password, so make sure you uncover how to get in before getting there! When you do, treat yourself to the Bootlegger’s Mule or the French 75 cocktails.
SOB Downtown
345 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: (901) 370-2144
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SOB Downtown is a sophisticated yet lively gastropub that suits various tastes. Located near the National Civil Rights Museum, I find that it’s the perfect spot for visitors who want to explore the area and grab an innovative cocktail and bite to eat. Their shrimp and grits are to die for, along with their duck fried rice.
The Cove
2559 Broad Ave, Memphis, TN 38112
Phone: (901) 730-0719
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The Cove is another well-loved spot in Memphis, positioned near Overton Park in Midtown. This nautical-themed bar is a bit quirky, but that’s what I love about it. In addition to a classic cocktail like vodka and tonic, you should try out their blue cheese oysters.
Young Avenue Deli
2119 Young Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 278-0034
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Young Avenue Deli is a go-to spot for my friend group when we’re looking for tasty beer, burgers, and fries in Midtown. The jukebox here is one of the best I’ve found in Memphis — it’s always stocked with classics that get everyone singing along.
Bar Hustle
477 S Main St, Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: (901) 701-7490
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Bar Hustle is one of the best cocktail bars outside of Downtown Memphis, not only due to its exceptional cocktails but also its airy, fresh, modern design. In addition to ordering custom cocktails in the evenings, you can also go during the day for their coffee and cafe offerings. Whether you’re craving a classic Negroni or a Pinot Noir, this spot is one of the best places to go out.
Hammer & Ale
921 Cooper St, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 305-6930
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If you assumed that Hammer & Ale is a place that offers a wide selection of beer, you’d be correct! In addition to ales, this East Midtown bar serves porters, cider, IPAs, and all of the usual suspects. Because of their extensive menu, I tend to order a flight of six beers so I can taste many different kinds in one sitting.
Bar Keough
247 Cooper St, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 654-3851
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Bar Keough is another midtown favorite south of Overton Park. This bar is simple and straightforward, which frequent visitors like about it. You may not get the live music you’ll find in other Memphis spots, but you can use the free jukebox to play your favorite jams while enjoying incredible draft beers.
knifebird wine bar
2155 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 748-5425
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If you’re hoping to visit an easygoing wine bar when you’re in Midtown, check out knifebird, near Peabody Park. This bar has an incredible wine list and also has the “flight” option that you usually only see provided with beers.
I like trying varieties of wine and pairing each one with various bite combinations from the charcuterie board.
Cameo
1835 Union Ave Suite 103, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 305-6911
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If you’re a fan of bars that bring in a diverse crowd, head to Cameo. I love the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of this bar, which is in the Idlewild neighborhood of Midtown. It’s the perfect spot for grabbing a drink or two and chatting with a few friends after eating Memphis barbecue, perhaps from The Bar-B-Q Shop close by.
Alchemy Memphis
940 Cooper St, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 726-4444
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Alchemy Memphis created a sophisticated and charming environment with ease, and the atmosphere fits perfectly with the craft cocktails and tapas that they serve. It’s located in the Lenox area, right by Bar DKDC, another bar mentioned on this list. Pair a whiskey flight with their duck confit, and you’ll be good to go.
Art Bar at Crosstown Arts
1350 Concourse Ave #280, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 507-8010
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Crosstown Arts is an arts organization in Crosstown near The Curb Market with a collection of galleries, studios, shops, cafes, bakeries, and more. It also holds a bar, appropriately named Art Bar, that has a dimly lit setting and artful decor throughout. There are not a ton of food choices, but a wide array of creative cocktails.
Canvas
1737 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 443-5232
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Canvas is another art-themed bar, this time in the Midtown neighborhood, that attracts a trendy and artsy crowd. If you’re planning a trip to the Memphis Brooks Museum of Arts, I highly suggest walking over to Canvas for drinks on a lovely patio with a great atmosphere. You can even bring your dog!
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