Memphis Neighborhood Bars
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Neighborhood bars in Memphis provide cozy atmospheres and, often, discounted drinks. These bars are where the locals congregate to engage in conversation while shooting pool, playing darts or just looking for the next song to play on the jukebox. Sleep Out Louie’s is one of Memphis’ prime neighborhood bars in a downtown location that’s hard to beat. Expert bartenders mix perfect drinks that will make you want another…and another. Young Avenue Deli has a fully stocked bar, tasty food and a stage where local Memphis bands and the occasional national act rock out. Of course, Memphis has many more neighborhood bars but the best way to experience them is to wander around until you find the right place. Starting the search on Beale Street is always a good choice, but don’t be afraid to venture to the outskirts of Memphis where hidden gems of bars are often hiding.
Alex's Tavern
1445 Jackson Ave., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.278.9086
Don’t judge Alex’s Tavern by the seedy exterior—it’s what’s inside that makes this Memphis dive bar worth a visit. Alex’s Tavern is a beloved family-owned pub that’s been a mainstay of Memphis nightlife since the 1950s. The jukebox itself attests to the bar’s long history and plays tunes all night. Cheep beer and perfectly grilled burgers keep celebrities like Don Henley and Dennis Quaid coming back every chance they get. The walls are lined with photographs of other celebs and framed articles about this favorite Memphis bar to locals and visitors in the know. Students and businesspeople alike will love the authentic Memphis atmosphere found at Alex’s Tavern.
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Beale Street Tap Room
168 Beale St., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.527.4392
With nearly 30 beers on tap, the Beale Street Tap Room’s friendly Memphis atmosphere and prime location in the heart of the city’s nightlife scene make it one of the best places to enjoy a beer in the River City. For patrons not in the mood for beer, excellent food and an extensive liquor selection should leave everyone feeling satisfied. Friendly bartenders add to the comfortable feel of one of Beale Street’s and Memphis’ best drinking establishments sure to satisfy everyone.
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Sleep Out Louie's
88 Union Ave., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.527.5337
Smack in the middle of Downtown Memphis, Sleep Out Louie’s is within walking distance of Beale Street’s prime nightlife. Since it is so close to pretty much everything Memphis nightlife has to offer, this bar is a must-stop or a must-start at for a rockin’ night on the town. A diverse wine list, good food and expert bartenders make Sleep Out Louie’s a perfect neighborhood bar for catching up with friends before hitting the town or to enjoy the entire night at—and no, they won’t let you really sleep out.
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The World Famous Poplar Lounge
2586 Poplar Ave., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.324.1233
“World Famous” is a relative term when it comes to The World Famous Poplar Lounge. Nonetheless, the joint is a popular dive bar located between Midtown and East Memphis that provides locals and visitors a great place to hear some bluegrass while sipping a beer or munching on a burger. Visitors to Memphis can enjoy rubbing elbows with locals while experiencing a real neighborhood bar complete with a grill and plenty of cocktails and beer. A trip to Memphis wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a dive, and The World Famous Poplar Lounge is a great place to see this side of Memphis nightlife.
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Young Avenue Deli
2119 Young Ave., Memphis, Tennessee; Tel. 901.278.3123
Local Memphis bands and the occasional national act play at Young Avenue Deli while patrons enjoy delicious food and a variety of drinks. The fully stocked bar, complete with an assortment of imported beers, make this Memphis bar a favorite for visitors and locals alike. The crowd is truly unique with hard-rocking musicians drinking right alongside suited businesspeople and artsy hipsters. Jazzy tunes, excellent eats and plenty of drink options keep the Young Avenue Deli atop many best Memphis bar and live rock music club lists.
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—Memphis bar and club reviews by David Backes
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