5 Fantastic Bars in Memphis, TN

What Is It?

Earnestine & Hazel's is a unique dive bar located on South Main Street in Memphis, celebrated for its rich history and haunted ambiance. Known primarily for its legendary Soul Burger, this low-key bar and grill has become a staple for both locals and visitors, delivering a vibe that’s equal parts lively and laid-back, often accompanied by live music and a vibrant jukebox.

The Experience

When you step through the creaky doors of Earnestine & Hazel's, you’re greeted by a lively atmosphere infused with the spirited sound of live music wafting through the air. As the band strums familiar tunes, you’re drawn to the bar, where friendly bartenders are quick with a smile and even quicker with your drink. No time wasted! You know you're here for one reason—the Soul Burger. You place your order, excitement buzzing as the mouthwatering aroma hits you while you soak in the eclectic decor around you, with tales of Memphis history lingering in the air.

Once that glorious burger arrives, it’s hard not to dig in immediately. The flavor is undeniable—it’s savory, juicy, and packed with soul, all served with a side of classic chips. As you take that first bite, you're reminded of why this place is legendary. Other patrons nearby are jumping in on the fun too, sharing laughs and stories, making it feel like you’re part of a big, welcoming family.

As the night rolls on, the bar begins to fill up with an eclectic mix of people, from fun-loving locals to intrigued tourists all enjoying the vibe. If you have a chance to explore upstairs, you’ll definitely want to; that’s where the real charm lies. Each step you take up those stairs feels heavy with the weight of history and maybe even a ghost or two. You find Mr. Nate, the longtime bartender, who spins enthralling tales of the bar’s storied past and its alleged hauntings—all while the music continues to provide a lively backdrop.

You sit back with your drink, soaking it all in, from the soulful tunes to the magical tales surrounding the place. It feels like a snapshot of authentic Memphis life: classic burgers, good tunes, and an electric atmosphere that keeps you coming back for more—long after you’ve polished off that double burger and another round of drinks. Whenever you leave, you’ll certainly want to tell your friends about this hidden gem, knowing it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking the essence of Memphis nightlife.

When to Go

If you’re looking to snag a spot at Earnestine & Hazel's without the long waits, try arriving earlier in the evening or on a weekday. Lunchtime and early evenings tend to have a more casual crowd, allowing you to experience that great atmosphere without feeling too packed in with other patrons.

What Is It?

Fat Charlie's Speakeasy is a hidden gem in Harbor Town, Memphis, where patrons can unwind in a cozy atmosphere while enjoying an impressive selection of wines, bourbons, and cigars. This laid-back bar offers a welcoming environment, perfect for relaxing after a long day or having a romantic evening out. The live music on Wednesdays adds a touch of vibrancy to this intimate setting, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

The Experience

As you step into Fat Charlie's, you’re immediately embraced by a warm ambiance that feels like a home away from home. The stylish decor and the soft glow of lighting invite you to take a seat at the bar or snuggle into one of the comfortable lounge chairs. You can’t help but notice the impressive collection of spirits behind the bar—burbon lovers will be in their element here. A friendly bartender is eager to share recommendations, and before long, you’ve settled on a Smoked Old Fashioned that has its own delightful twist.

As you sip your drink, you’re drawn to the inviting cigar selection. The atmosphere is perfect for indulging in a rich cigar while enjoying the mellow tunes of soul music wafting through the air. You find the ventilation pleasantly surprising; you won’t come away with that distinct cigar smell lingering on your clothes. Instead, the scents of delicious food complement the cigars, perhaps a smoky chicken salad that you hear other guests rave about.

The connection with other patrons also blossoms effortlessly; whether it's a quick chat about bourbon selections or enjoying the shared vibe while watching sports, you feel part of a friendly community. There’s laughter, stories exchanged, and a sense of camaraderie that makes those hours slip by much quicker than you expected. Even the delightfully mixed drinks keep the energy flowing and the conversation vibrant throughout the evening.

Finally, as the live music kicks off, you settle in for an unforgettable night at one of Memphis' best-kept secrets. You feel grateful to have stumbled on such a splendid spot, where the service is impeccable, and the people are refreshingly kind.

What Is It?

Knifebird Wine Bar is a trendy neighborhood spot in Midtown Memphis, specializing in an impressive range of wines, cocktails, and delicious small bites. The warm and welcoming atmosphere invites patrons to unwind with friends or enjoy a cozy date night. Their menu features everything from savory charcuterie boards to delightful bruschetta, making it a go-to destination for both casual meetings and special occasions. Reservations are welcome, but there’s always space for walk-ins at the bar, ensuring everyone can enjoy the vibrant ambiance.

The Experience

As you step into Knifebird Wine Bar, the cozy ambiance immediately wraps you in warmth, with soft lighting and cheerful chatter buzzing around. You spot a few comfy tables and a lively bar area, where friendly faces are sharing laughs over glasses of rich red wine. The bar staff beams as they greet you, ready to help you navigate through their extensive wine selection. You settle onto a plush chair, the perfect spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a romantic evening. The vibe is just right, playing mellow tunes in the background—a delightful departure from the hyper energy of other downtown haunts.

As you browse the menu, you can’t help but notice the tantalizing options for food. Guests rave about the charcuterie boards, and you decide to order one for the table. When it arrives, it's beautifully arranged, featuring a nice mix of cheeses, meats, and other mouth-watering bites. The house-made chocolate and brie with jam bruschetta are a must-try. Each bite complements the wine perfectly, lifting the flavors and making the experience feel even more luxurious. You find yourself sharing stories as the evening rolls on, and your glasses never seem to run dry, thanks to the attentive staff who are always nearby to refill.

One of the highlights of your visit is the knowledge that the team shares about their wines. From fun recommendations to engaging discussions about the flavor profiles, you feel more connected to your choices. Maybe you even try a wine flight to sample various flavors—after all, life’s too short not to explore a bit! Your time at Knifebird becomes a cherished memory, filled with jovial laughter, exceptional wines, and the thrill of discovering something new together.

As the night fades, content, you and your friends chat about coming back again soon. Whether it's for a happy hour deal or to celebrate a special occasion, your experience at Knifebird convinces you it'll be a go-to spot for years to come. You leave with an understanding of why this place is a beloved gem in Memphis—friendly service, delightful bites, and a wine selection that keeps you coming back for more!

When to Go

If you’re looking to enjoy a quieter experience at Knifebird, consider visiting during off-peak hours, like mid-afternoon before the happy hour rush. This way, you can take your time exploring their deli-style snacks and wine flights without the hustle and bustle of the evening crowd, which tends to peak around 6 PM to 8 PM.

What Is It?

Lucchesi's Beer Garden is a delightful deli and pub in Memphis offering a fantastic selection of packaged beers to-go and delicious Mediterranean-style food. Whether you're looking to chill on their patio with a cold drink or grab a tasty sandwich, this local spot promises a friendly atmosphere and a diverse menu that's perfect for beer lovers and foodies alike.

The Experience

You stroll into Lucchesi's Beer Garden and are immediately enveloped by the laid-back vibe that draws in both locals and visitors alike. On a sunny day, the patio is buzzing with laughter and conversation, inviting you to grab a seat and soak in the friendly atmosphere. You can't help but smile as you scan the impressive beer selection, which seems to stretch on endlessly. Deciding to try something new, you go for a blood orange hard Italian soda that many have raved about, and it doesn’t disappoint – refreshing and slightly tangy. Meanwhile, the aroma of freshly prepared Mediterranean dishes dances through the air, making your mouth water in anticipation.

Feeling hungry, you opt for the highly recommended falafel sandwich. When it arrives, it's beautifully presented with fluffy pita and a generous portion of hummus. Each bite is a delightful burst of flavor, confirming that it lives up to the reputation of being some of the best falafel in town. The cozy environment makes it easy to strike up conversations with fellow patrons, as friendly laughter and the occasional cheers from nearby tables fill the air.

As the sun begins to set, the dim lights add a touch of warmth, complementing the buzz inside. You notice a few patrons enjoying gyros, and the sight is tempting. While several guests swear by their incredible gyros, you can’t shake your curiosity about hearing both highs and lows regarding the dish – it seems they have a hit-or-miss reputation. In any case, the food keeps coming, and since you’re feeling adventurous, you decide to order a classic muffaletta recommended by both guests and the staff.

Feeling satisfied, it's time to wind down the evening. You notice the bar area has become lively with friends gathering for karaoke night, filling the air with melodious tunes. With a massive beer selection and an easy-going ambiance, Lucchesi's rightly earns its title as one of Memphis's hidden gems. You're already plotting your return to enjoy more of the food and friendly faces you encountered - the kind of place you want to make your go-to spot for every gathering.

When to Go

For a more relaxed experience, visiting before 6 PM is recommended. This way, you'll avoid the peak dinner rush and have an easier time enjoying both the food and the cozy ambiance without feeling pressed for time.

What Is It?

Rocky's is a cozy dive bar located in East Memphis, known for its friendly atmosphere and love for bourbon. This local gem offers a great selection of Memphis beers and a laid-back vibe, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day.

The Experience

You walk into Rocky's, and right away, you can feel that chill vibe enveloping you like a warm hug. The friendly chatter and laughter surround you, and it's almost like reuniting with old friends—even if you're a first-timer. The owner is known for being super welcoming, ensuring you feel right at home as you find a spot at the bar. The shelves gleam with a fantastic selection of bottles and cans, and since it’s Memphis, you can’t pass up the chance to grab a local brew or a smooth bourbon.

With rock music softly playing in the background and patrons sharing stories about their day, you can’t help but soak in the atmosphere. Whether you’re challenging your friends to a game of pool or trying your hand at darts, the space is set up perfectly for a friendly competition. And if you’re feeling a bit peckish, that pizza you heard about? It’s got everything you need to keep the evening fun.

As you sip on your drink, you strike up a conversation with someone nearby, and before you know it, you’ve joined a group discussing last week’s trivia night. People are genuinely friendly here, making it easy to mingle and share a laugh. You find yourself staying longer than planned, but it’s hard to leave when everyone’s having such a good time together.

The best part? The place is kept clean and tidy, so you can kick back and relax without any worries. With a patio option for fresh air and a nice open atmosphere, every visit feels like an adventure waiting to unfold. Whether you're kicking back with a drink, catching an impromptu live show, or just enjoying the camaraderie of fellow bar-goers, Rocky's is the kind of spot you’ll love coming back to.

When to Go

For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting Rocky's during mid-week or earlier in the evening. Arriving around 6 or 7 PM means you can enjoy the laid-back vibe without battling the late-night crowd that tends to fill up the bar.