It's been called the Tinsel Town of the South due to its popularity with Hollywood as a filmmaking site. It's home to Elvis' booth at The Arcade Restaurant and other Memphis-centric attractions, yet the neighborhood maintains a quaint and friendly atmosphere. The South Main Historic Arts District, with its bars, numerous art galleries, boutiques, and retro architecture, offers plenty of interesting nightlife in a quiet setting. Below are some of the best South Main bars and events.
South of Beale
361 South Main Street
(901) 526-0388
South of Beale, also known as SOB, is a comfortable pub with a sophisticated menu. The food, which is described as chef-driven, is a pleasant surprise. South of Beale succeeds at presenting fine dining in a cozy pub. Even the late-night menu has a special flair. They offer regular happy hours and drink specials. For more information, visit the South of Beale website.
Calhoun's Sports Bar
115 East G.E. Patterson
(901) 528-8600
Arguably the best sports bar downtown, this neighborhood spot is certainly the coziest. Calhoun's is frequented by lots of friendly locals and hosts various activities, such as movie nights, shrimp boils, and sports parties. You can take your own liquor to this beer bar that stays open late on the weekends, and by the time you leave, everyone will know your name.
The Blue Monkey
513 South Front Street
(901) 527-6665
Just around the corner from shopping and galleries, The Blue Monkey is a great lunch spot by day and a neon beacon at night. The wine label-plastered pub offers a full bar, late-night service, occasional wine tastings, trivia and karaoke nights.
Ernestine & Hazel's
531 South Main Street
(901) 523-9754
This juke joint exudes seedy Memphis lore with a history as a brothel and blues club. Its reputation as a movie set and as a popular tourist attraction is growing. The interior is thicker with soul than it is with smoke, and late-night partiers dance to the jukebox on the cracked tile floor. Earnestine & Hazel's is one-of-a-kind.
The Warehouse
36 East G E Patterson Avenue
(901) 526-5747
The Warehouse hosts select parties and charity events. Celebrity musicians have been known to record and shoot music videos in this makeshift venue. Owned by Memphis music enthusiasts, The Warehouse supports local talent and the community. Though somewhat exclusive, some events require only a cover charge for admission. The bottom line is if there's a party at The Warehouse, you want to be there.
Trolley Tour
Last Friday of every month
6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
The South Main Trolley Tour is a monthly block party of sorts that takes place on the last Friday night of every month. The trolley up and down Main Street is free, the art galleries and shops stay open late, and the wine flows amidst street performers, musicians, art openings, and movie premier parties. The Trolley Tour is a great way to experience Memphis art and the local hospitality.
