When it comes down to finding the best bars there is in Memphis, there is definitely no shortage. While the up-and-coming and most energetic bars and nightclubs can easily be found in the downtown bar strips, there are some quaint ones located at a short distance away. They are usually quieter and less packed - the perfect place for making a new friend, getting connected to the locals, and relax after a hard day at work, or traveling all around Memphis in a charter bus from one tourist attraction to another. Traveling might be fun but it can take a toll on you at the end of the day.
A place that will give you the ‘blues’ is a nice little nook called Beale Street Tap Room located on, well...Beale Street, of course! The bar is often visited by the locals so, if you want to have some insider knowledge or is interested in making friends with the locals, Beale Street Tap Room is most definitely the place to be on an impromptu visit. No admission fee, no frills, no queues....just a quiet, quaint and relaxing place to unwind and relax. However, the bar has been said to get rather crowded on Friday and Saturday nights so, head over early to grab the best seats and enjoy the Happy Hour rates. For those who do not drink, there is a wide range of non-alcoholic beverages being served too.
Another good option to go for would be Rafe’s Deli and Beer Garden located on Poplar Ave. What is unique about Rafe’s is the style of the ‘bar’. It has a very ‘convenience store’ feel to it because you get to do a little shopping (limited selection, mind you, because the focus here is on serving you your drinks) and bring home some of your favorite selection with you. There is clearly a focus on quality and variety instead of simply giving you a whole host of drink choices which often waters down the quality service you might get from the people manning the place. Rafe’s have a good selection of imports and American craft beers which means you get to decide which ones you prefer to have here or take home with you. If you have never tried Pumpkin Beer, then here you go, this is the perfect place to get it. And on a side note, if the owner of the store is there when you are visiting, try striking a conversation with her as she is known for her quick wit and sense of humor.
