America's Top Bars: USA TODAY Recognizes a Memphis Establishment; Here's a Regretful List of Unnoticed Gems Across the Country
Exploring Memphis' Vibrant Bar Scene: Six Notable Watering Holes Beyond USA TODAY's List
Memphis, Tennessee, is a city known for its rich music heritage, soulful cuisine, and lively nightlife. In addition to the bars on USA TODAY's 2025 Bars of the Year list, there are several other establishments that deserve recognition for their unique offerings and vibrant atmospheres. Here, we delve into six such bars that the Memphis Commercial Appeal has highlighted for celebration.
First on our list is Bar Hustle, nestled inside the ARRIVE Hotel on South Main Street in Downtown Memphis. This trendy spot offers comfortable seating at the bar and distinct conversation areas, making it an ideal destination for both casual gatherings and more intimate encounters. On warmer nights, patrons can enjoy outdoor seating on Main Street for people-watching. Bar Hustle is also renowned for its friendly, knowledgeable service on a variety of drinks, including non-alcoholic options and some of the best deep-dish pizza in Memphis.
Mary's B.O.T.E., Memphis' first tiki bar, is located at 588 Cooper St., Suite 102. This tropical oasis transports patrons to a far-off island, with rum drinks and other spirits available to quench their thirst. On Tuesday evenings, Mary's B.O.T.E. hosts "B.O.T.E. Bingo" at 6 p.m.
Swamp Bar, located next to The Second Line in Midtown's Overton Square neighborhood, offers a fusion of Creole and Korean cuisine. The menu caters to various crowds, including after-work, brunch, late-night, and bar-hoppers. Swamp Bar's location can be found on secondlinememphis.com/swamp-bar.
Cameo, with its cozy, dark academia aesthetic, is located in The Citizen development on Union Avenue. This intimate bar offers a variety of craft cocktails prepared by experienced bartenders and a kitchen serving delicious fare. Cameo's schedule of guest DJs can be followed on Instagram.
Central Station Hotel's bar area, known as Eight & Sand, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. This chic space, located in the hotel's lobby, offers thoughtfully prepared cocktails and tasty bites. Eight & Sand also hosts live music, ranging from R&B to hip hop, and Ladies Night every Wednesday with discounted feminine-themed drinks.
Memphis Whistle, located at 2299 Young Ave., is a Cajun-influenced establishment with vegan options on its menu. Patrons can reach the bar by calling 901-236-7136. While the specific names of the six other Memphis bars noted by the Memphis Commercial Appeal article for celebration beyond USA TODAY’s list are not available at this time, these six bars provide a taste of the city's diverse and thriving bar scene. Whether you're in the mood for a tropical escape, a fusion of flavours, or a dive into the local music scene, Memphis has a bar for you.
- For those seeking a unique entertainment experience, Memphis Whistle, with its Cajun influence and vegan options, offers a distinctive blend of food, drinks, and atmosphere.
- In addition to the bars on USA TODAY's list, the media outlet Memphis Commercial Appeal has highlighted several other establishments, such as Central Station Hotel's bar area, Eight & Sand, that cater to various lifestyles and preferences, enriching Memphis' vibrant entertainment and lifestyle scene.
