Let’s talk cocktail bars Memphis. Tough day at the office? Long afternoon of sightseeing in Memphis? Either way, sounds like it’s time to grab a cocktail. Ready to go beyond the typical bars in Memphis? Now’s the time.
Lucky for you, there are a lot of cocktail bars Memphis! There are so many spots where you can sit down to an expertly prepared boozy beverage. Whether you’re looking for a local watering hole or an upscale establishment, here’s a list of some of the best cocktail spots with some of the best cocktails in Memphis!
Hen House
While the Hen House primarily serves top-tier wines, cocktail lovers shouldn’t be shy about stopping in. This new East Memphis space will have a cocktail program featuring house-made syrups and even lessons and educational classes led by mixologist Tony Nguyen. Paired with family-style shareable dishes that have elevated Southern flavors, this space is a can’t miss.
Bar DKDC
Memphians are more than familiar with Karen Carrier’s Beauty Shop Restaurant, but stopping by Bar DKDC is a must. From the eccentric decor that makes you feel like you’re in one of the coolest spots in town to drinks featuring flavors from far off lands (as well as classics we all know and love), Bar DKDC is a perfect addition to your happy-hour lineup. Be sure to check out their live music lineup for the ultimate cocktail bar experience in Memphis.
Crosstown Art Bar
Are you looking for a space with good drinks and even better vibes? Art Bar is for you. Tucked away in the Crosstown Arts Gallery at Crosstown Concourse, the drinks are the only great things about this cocktail bar in Memphis. As expected of some of the artsiest Memphians in town, the aesthetics of the space are perfect for unwinding with something to sip.
Photo Credit: Arrive Hotel
Bar Hustle
Set in the Arrive Hotel, Bar Hustle not only has some amazing drinks and menu items, but also has some serious South Main spirit. Whether you’re cozying up with a cocktail in their comfy seating or using their decor as the backdrop for photos of your drink to post on Instagram (they’re going to look amazing, by the way), you’ll find something to love about this bar.
Eight and Sand
Visiting Central Station Hotel? Out of towners may be looking for a place to rest their heads, but Memphians know that Eight and Sand is one of the best bars in the city. We know that anything Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman is going to be good, but this bar goes above and beyond. The phrase “Eight and Sand” is sort of like “break and leg” for the train industry and going to this bar is definitely good luck. The curated playlists are more than enough to put you in a Memphis mood but don’t forget to come on a night where a live DJ is spinning both the classics and a little bit of something new. Full steam ahead indeed.
BarWare
BarWare is the sleek and sophisticated new kid on the downtown block. Not only does this spot have a great cocktail menu, but it’s also a good spot for lunch for all you downtowners! It’s so good that we won’t tell if you hit them up twice in one day. Looking for a lowkey date night location? The upscale vibes (yet totally accessible menu) The upscale vibes (yet totally accessible menu) make it the perfect date location too.
Knifebird
This Cooper-Young wine bar may have an extensive list of wines and some great plates, but their cocktail menu shouldn’t be overlooked. Not only does the team have a full bar, but their speciality cocktails includes ingredients such as Flor de Caña rum, Henry McKenna bourbon, and Memphis’ own Old Dominick toddy.
Loflin Yard
Located in a renovated space that used to be home to a lock-and-key company, this cozy bar serves up barrel-aged drinks carefully crafted from classic recipes. Definitely check out the Tennessee old-fashioned! Although the indoor portion of Loflin Yard is tiny, there’s an expansive outdoor seating area complete with a massive covered patio that overlooks a man-made waterfall running into the Gayoso Bayou, complete with cornhole, giant Jenga, and plenty of other outdoor games.
Photo Credit: The Cove Cocktail and Oyster Bar Facebook
The Cove Cocktail and Oyster Bar
The Cove Cocktail and Oyster Bar is a nautical-themed establishment with mixed drinks to match—and if you had any doubts about the Cove’s commitment to its aesthetic, look no further than the bar itself, which is shaped like a ship. A highlight of the menu is The Skull & Crossbones, made with Gosling’s rum, sweet vermouth, bitters and a lemon twist. Be sure to order up a half-dozen oysters from the kitchen and stick around for live music.
Alchemy Memphis
The practice after which Alchemy is named fell by the wayside a while ago, but this sleek spot in the Cooper-Young neighborhood keeps its spirit alive by transforming ordinary ingredients into extraordinary cocktails with fresh herbs and homemade syrups. Hit up this hot spot on weekdays between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. for a half-off happy-hour deal.
Maximo’s on Broad
Nestled between a coffee shop and a tattoo parlor on Broad Ave., Maximo’s on Broad effortlessly strikes a balance between chic and casual. The Southern Charmer (bourbon, pecan liqueur and basil) is one of our favorite cocktails at this trendy destination, but don’t sleep on the extensive wine selection or the tapas menu with small and large plates ideal for sharing. Maximo’s is a great place to enjoy a night out with a group of friends.
Memphis may be famous for its music venues, but it’s no slouch when it comes to cocktail bars either. Next time you visit Memphis, be sure to stop by one of these establishments for a tasty mixed drink.
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