Remember, this list is by no means exhaustive! With more than 100 dining options in the Downtown core alone, there’s no way we could capture every single delicious spot that the city has to offer–this is just to get you started! For a complete list, click here to head to the Downtown Memphis Commission’s site!

Fine Dining

Indulge in the best of Memphis’ upscale dining scene with these fine dining spots in Downtown. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself, these restaurants offer exquisite cuisine, top-notch service, and an unforgettable ambiance.

Itta Bena
Catherine and Mary’s
Amelia Gene
Chez Philippe
Flight

Bars + Nightlife

Looking for a night out on the town? Downtown Memphis boasts a vibrant nightlife with trendy bars, lively music venues, and more. Check out some of our favorite spots to sip, dance, and soak in the energy of the city.

Beck and Call
BarWare
Silky O’ Sullivan’s
Pretty Taco
Eight & Sand

Great Patios

Enjoy the perfect blend of delicious food and fresh air on some of Memphis’ best patios. Whether you’re people-watching or just basking in the sun, these outdoor dining spots offer a relaxing atmosphere and excellent views.

Slider Inn
The Lobbyist
Loflin Yard
Los Comales
Wiseacre Taproom

Casual Bites

For those laid-back days when you’re craving something tasty, Downtown Memphis has plenty of casual options. From sandwiches and burgers to smoothies and pizza, these eateries are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

Groovy Gratitude
By the Brewery
Aldo’s
Kooky Canuck
WingMan

Date Night/Girl’s Night Out

Planning a romantic evening or a fun night with the girls? Downtown Memphis has you covered. These stylish and cozy restaurants and lounges are the perfect backdrop for memorable moments, whether it’s with your significant other or your best friends.

SOB Downtown
The Majestic Grille
Sage
Curfew
Birdie’s

International

Take your tastebuds on a global journey without leaving Downtown Memphis! Explore our top picks for international cuisine, where you can enjoy everything from Italian pastas to Latin cuisine, all right in the heart of the city.

Good Fortune Co.
The Brass Door
Maciel’s
Cocozza American Italian
Curry and Jerk

Coffee Shops

Need a caffeine boost or a cozy spot to unwind? Downtown Memphis is home to a variety of coffee shops, each with its own unique charm. Grab a cup of locally roasted coffee, meet up with friends, or settle in with a good book at these neighborhood favorites.

Comeback Coffee
Memphis Chess Club
Talk Shop at the Caption by Hyatt
Bluff City Coffee
Arrive Hotel

Breakfast/Brunch

Start your day right with the best breakfast and brunch spots in Downtown Memphis. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Southern breakfast or a creative brunch dish, these local spots are sure to satisfy.

Kinfolk
The Genre
Biscuits and Jams
Cafe Keough
Hive Bagel and Deli

BBQ

Memphis is world-famous for its BBQ, and Downtown is home to some of the city’s finest spots to enjoy slow-smoked, mouth-watering goodness. Whether you prefer ribs, pulled pork, or something in between, these BBQ joints deliver the smoky flavors that Memphis is known for.

Cozy Corner
The Rendezvous
Central BBQ
Arnold’s BBQ
Smurfey’s Smokehouse

Iconic Spots

No visit to Downtown Memphis is complete without dining at some of the city’s most iconic spots. From legendary restaurants to famous food joints, these must-visit places offer a true taste of Memphis’ rich culinary history and culture.

Earnestine and Hazel’s
The Arcade
Huey’s
Gus’ Fried Chicken
Alcenia’s

Breweries and Distilleries

Downtown Memphis is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries offering unique, flavorful brews that showcase the creativity and passion of Memphis brewers. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a laid-back spot to enjoy a cold one, these breweries provide the perfect setting to relax, unwind, and taste some of Memphis’ homegrown beer.

Ghost River
Grind City
Soul and Spirits
Old Dominick Distillery
Memphis Made

The post Guide to Dining in Downtown Memphis appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Knifebird Wine Bar

Located in Midtown, Knifebird Wine Bar is the perfect for those looking for a quiet space to have a great glass of wine. Knifebird’s thoughtfully curated wine list features a diverse selection of varietals from around the world, highlighting both well-known winemakers and emerging labels. Pair your wine with their delectable small plates, which perfectly complement the flavors and aromas of the wines. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or new to the world of wine, Knifebird Wine Bar offers a memorable experience.

Belltower Coffee and Wine Bar

Located on the Highland Strip,  Belltower Coffee and Wine Bar offer a unique blend of coffee and wine in a cozy atmosphere. You may be familiar with their delicious coffee menu for all your day-time studying, meetings, and caffeine-needs, but you’re definitely going to want to stop by in the evening for great snacks, boards, and of course, a great wine menu!

Grey’s Fine Cheese

While known for its exceptional cheese selection, Grey’s Fine Cheese also offers an impressive wine list. This charming establishment combines the elegance of a wine bar with the artistry of a gourmet cheese shop. With their expertly paired wine and cheese flights, you can explore amazingly-delicious combinations of flavors. The knowledgeable staff is always on hand to provide recommendations and guide you through the menu! Don’t just stop in for wine–they’ve got an amazing sandwich menu too!

Hen House Wine Bar

Not ready to go home after Grey’s? Hen House Wine Bar is right next door! Not only is it one of the cutest bars perfect for all of your Instagram content needs, but its impressive wine and champagne menus make it an amazing wine bar in the city. Whether you prefer a bold red, a crisp white, or a sparkling rosé, Hen House has something to satisfy your taste buds. Don’t miss their unique wine flights, allowing you to sample a variety of wines and expand your palate. Need a spot for dinner too? They’ve got a great menu featuring charcuterie boards, light appetizers, and some delicious options for entrees!

You might also be interested in: Memphis Blues Bars: The Ultimate Guide to Blues in Memphis

The post Discover the Best Wine Bars in Memphis appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Eight and Sand (The Central Station Hotel)

Located in The Central Station Hotel, Eight and Sand is a sophisticated cocktail lounge that exudes timeless charm. With its vintage-inspired decor and an impressive menu of handcrafted cocktails, it offers a refined drinking experience. Sip on a classic Manhattan or try one of their signature creations, like the Smoke & Mirrors, while enjoying the elegant ambiance and attentive service.

The Beauty Shop Restaurant

A quirky and vibrant spot, The Beauty Shop Restaurant combines delicious cuisine with creative cocktails. Housed in what used to be a beauty salon, this eclectic venue features a lively atmosphere and a menu that showcases both classic and inventive libations. Indulge in a refreshing Watermelon Mojito or their famous Grapefruit Margarita, perfectly complementing the restaurant’s diverse and delectable menu offerings.

Art Bar at Crosstown Concourse

Located in the bustling Crosstown Concourse, the Art Bar is a haven for music/art enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. This contemporary and stylish bar boasts an impressive selection of handcrafted cocktails, carefully curated wines, and local craft beers. Sip on a specialty cocktail while admiring the vibrant artworks displayed throughout the space, creating an immersive and culturally rich experience.

Hen House Wine Bar

For wine and cocktail enthusiasts alike, Hen House Wine Bar is a must-visit destination. Located in East Memphis, this cozy and intimate bar offers an extensive selection of wines from around the world. Knowledgeable staff will guide you through the menu, helping you discover new varietals and pairings. Enjoy a glass of your favorite wine or embark on a tasting journey, accompanied by delicious small plates and entrees! 

Beck and Call (The Hyatt Centric)

Situated in The Hyatt Centric, Beck and Call is a sleek and stylish rooftop bar that offers stunning panoramic views of downtown Memphis. Whether you’re savoring a handcrafted cocktail, indulging in a craft beer, or exploring their impressive whiskey selection, this rooftop oasis provides a sophisticated setting to unwind and take in the city’s skyline.

Soul and Spirits Brewery

Combining the best of both worlds, Soul and Spirits Brewery specializes in crafting soulful beers that reflect the city’s musical heritage. This brewery offers a unique experience, with a taproom that features live music and an inviting atmosphere. Sample their diverse range of brews, from traditional styles to innovative creations, all infused with the soulful spirit of Memphis.

Memphis truly has something for every drink enthusiast, from elegant hotel bars to vibrant neighborhood spots and unique brewery experiences. Whether you’re seeking a classic cocktail, a refined wine selection, or an inventive craft beer, these notable establishments offer delightful libations and unforgettable atmospheres. So, raise a glass and immerse yourself in the rich drink culture of Memphis, where the flavors and vibes of the city come alive.

The post 5 Memphis Spots Serving the Perfect Drink appeared first on We Are Memphis.

You’ve heard us and probably everyone else in town talk about how excited Memphians are for patio season. I mean, with great weather and so many local bartenders showing off their skills, there are plenty of reasons to be hyped! But it’s not just about the patios–it’s what’s on the inside that counts. Even though our friends at Central Station have the perfect patio for some South Main fun, their lobby bar, Eight & Sand, is where you need to be.

We caught up with Will Davenport, Eight & Sand’s general manager, and learned a little about him and how the cocktail program at the bar combines with the most chill atmosphere to make one unforgettable experience! 

We Are Memphis: What do you love about working at Eight & Sand? 

Will Davenport: I was born and raised in Memphis and I have so much love for this city and the people and stuff that comes out of here. I also have a really soft spot in my heart for Memphis music so here I get to blend my love of cocktails–we do a very Memphis forward program here where we try to highlight Memphis products and producers and locally owned companies through our menus and products that we bring in. So I’m happy to work on that side and also as far as the atmosphere we’ve got a killer music program. 

WAM: What makes Eight & Sand different from any other bar in town? 

Will: Most of my career, I was working in fine dining restaurants which I had a lot of fun with and it was where I was able to grow a lot of my knowledge and ability to build beverage programs. Eight & Sand has been a whole changeover. We’re a bar so I’m able to focus in on that. It provides a really fun atmosphere with great drinks behind it and making it very accessible–I want everyone to come in here and have a good time. 

WAM: What are your top two favorite drinks to make? 

Will: I love making a drink called Boulevardier it’s a negroni riff–I usually use rye whiskey in mine because I love the bite and the extra heat you get from that and then Campari which is a bitter orange liqueur and then just a good sweet vermouth usually those are done in equal parts but I usually bump the rye up on mine and drop the sweet vermouth down so you get this nice a little bit bitter but real boozy kind of whiskey style cocktail. I think it’s a nice little sipper. Another favorite is just a classic margarita. It’s actually my parents’ favorite cocktail, so I’ve got a lot of practice in! 

WAM: What’s your favorite dish from the bar menu? 

Will: That’s a tough one–I think I’m going to have to go with our wings. They’re just super tasty and they’ve got this sweet and spicy Asian style sauce and this blue cheese ranch on the side. I absolutely hate blue cheese, I can’t eat it with anything but with those wings it’s really really good. 

WAM: What should someone order for the first time at Eight & Sand or their first time at the bar in general?

Will: Honestly what I encourage a lot of people to do is to just come up. We have a lot of talented, well-trained bartenders and just kind of come in. If you can’t find anything immediately off the menu, just ask them to whip you up something! We all do that, it’s one of our favorite things. It’s just a time to get creative and make something custom and unique for each individual person. But if that’s not your speed and you want something off the menu, I recommend an Andrew Michael Old Fashioned. It’s just a tried and true classic and it’s hard to beat. 

WAM: If you could make a classic “Memphis” themed cocktail, what would you make? What about something more modern? 

Will: For a classic one, just kind of taking our Old Fashioned on the menu is a great idea. I use Old Dominick’s Huling Station for the base in it and then we make bitters in-house to go along with it. It’s a very local thing. For a modern style–getting into spring and summer things I like to do that I don’t see very often are shandy style cocktails–so incorporating beer in some way. So I’d like to make some light patio sipper that has a cool local beer on top of it. 

WAM: What is your advice to someone who is a beginner looking to get into mixology?

Will: I would say just have fun with it. The way I got into it was through cooking. I love to cook a lot so I took that passion and threw it into bartending. It can be a bit overwhelming at first, but you kind of just learn more every single day. Then, you get to a point where you’re just creating stuff. And sometimes it’s not going to be good–you’re going to make some bad stuff every now and then but don’t get discouraged by it. At the end of the day, you can just shoot it back and start over! 

If you haven’t been to Eight & Sand yet, now’s the time! Check them out online here or follow them on Instagram @eightandsandmem 

Cheers!

Experience the legendary taste of Memphis BBQ

The post We’ll Drink to That! – Catching up with Eight & Sand appeared first on We Are Memphis.

With Memphis having so many great breweries, distilleries, and food artisans, there are so many ways to give your cocktails some local flair. Check out our tips on recipes throughout the article!

1. Warm Tea-and-Cider Punch

INGREDIENTS

• 6 c. fresh apple cider
• 8 English breakfast tea bags
• 1 sliced lemon
• 4 1/2 oz. bourbon 
  • Make it Local: Use a bourbon from Blue Note!

Directions: 

Bring 6 cups of fresh apple cider to a boil in a large saucepan.
Reduce heat and simmer until cider is reduced to 3 cups, 30 to 45 minutes.
Remove from heat and add 8 English breakfast tea bags and 1 sliced lemon; steep for 4 minutes. Discard tea bags.
Stir in 4 1/2 ounces bourbon. Serve warm.

Courtesy of  countryliving.com

2. Holiday Sangria

INGREDIENTS

• 1Bottle sparkling apple cider
• 1Bottle red wine
• 1 cupBrandy
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 cups cranberries
• 1Orange, sliced
• 1Apple, cubed
• 2-3Cinnamon sticks
• 4Star anise
• 4Sprigs rosemary, plus more for garnish
  • Make it Local: Cane and Herb has so many great syrups to kick your cocktails up a notch. Add their Orange Infused syrup to this recipe!

Directions 

In a large pitcher (or punch bowl) combine all ingredients. Stir to mix, cover and set in the refrigerator overnight to allow flavors to come together. Serve over ice garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs.

Courtesy of themodernproper.com

3. Mistletoe Moscow Mule

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• Ginger beer Q or Fever tree are ideal
• Garnish cranberries, lime & mint or rosemary
• Optional 1/2 tsp fresh ginger
  • Make it Local: Use one of Old Dominick’s vodka options!

Directions

Fill two copper mugs with ice. Pour 1-ounce vodka and 1/2 ounce lime juice over ice in each mug. Pour ginger beer into each cup until mostly full. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds, crushed candy cane, and garnish with a whole candy cane and a mint sprig.

Courtesy of delish.com

4. Boozy Grinch Punch

INGREDIENTS

• 1 (0.13-oz.) packet Kool-Aid Lemon Lime mix 
• 4 c.  water
• 4 c. ice 
• 3 c. lemon-lime soda 
• 2 c. pineapple juice 
• 2 c. vodka 
• 1 c. ginger ale 
• Lime wedges, for rimming 
• Red sanding sugar, for rimming 

Directions 

Mix juice, vodka, and ginger ale in a large pitcher. Add Ice to cool.
Use a lime wedge to rim glasses and dip in sanding sugar to coat. Pour punch into glasses to serve.

Courtesy of delish.com

5. Hot Buttered Rum Batter

INGREDIENTS

• 1-1/2 ounces of butter 
• 1-1/2 ounces brown sugar
• 1-1/2 ounces confectioners’ sugar
• 1/3 cup and 1 tablespoon vanilla ice cream, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Make it Local: Add in soft serve ice cream from a local shop like Jerry’s or Sugar Ghost!

Directions

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Blend in brown sugar and confectioners’ sugar. Remove from heat, and whisk in the ice cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Pour mixture into a plastic container, seal, and freeze.
In a coffee mug, measure 1 tablespoon Hot Buttered Rum Batter and 1 fluid ounce of rum, then fill the cup with boiling water. Stir, and sprinkle the top of the drink with nutmeg. 

Courtesy of allrecipes.com

6. Holiday Punch

INGREDIENTS

• 8 oz pomegranate seeds
• 2 oranges
• 1 cup orange juice fresh squeezed if possible
• 16 oz pomegranate juice
• 16 oz 100% cranberry juice
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 20 oz 7Up or similar soda

Alcohol that can be added (optional):

• 20 oz Prosecco sparkling wine INSTEAD of 7UP
• 6 oz rum or vodka

Directions

Slice oranges into thin slices and cut the slices in half.
Combine orange slices, pomegranate seeds, pomegranate juice, orange juice, cranberry juice, and vanilla together in a punch bowl or pitcher. Mix and refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
Before serving, add soda and gently stir just enough to mix.
Christmas Punch with Alcohol:
Add rum (or vodka) at the same time as fruit and juices.
Add Prosecco right before servings.

Courtesy of willcookforsmiles.com

7. Homemade Irish Cream Liqueur

INGREDIENTS

• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup Irish whiskey, such as Jamison
• 1 tbsp Chocolate syrup
• 1 tbsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tsp Instant coffee granules
• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 1 tbsp Coconut cream

Directions

In a blender combine sweetened condensed milk, whiskey, chocolate syrup, vanilla, and coffee for one minute.
After the mixture is smooth, add cream and cream of coconut and pulse until combined. Shake before serving. Will keep up to 6 weeks if refrigerated.
Notes: 1 batch of this Irish cream yields 32 oz Irish Cream

Courtesy of themodernproper.com

8. Grapefruit Cardamom Gin Fizz

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz Rosemary syrup (recipe below)
• 3 oz Cardamom infused gin (recipe below)
• 1/2 cup
• Grapefruit juice
• Splash of prosecco, chilled
• Rosemary sprigs
• Grapefruit peel, for garnish
  • Make it Local: Add in Old Dominick’s Gin!

Cardamom Infused Gin and Rosemary Syrup

• 1 cup Gin
• 6 Cardamom pods
• 1 cup Sugar
• 1 cup Water
• 2 Rosemary sprigs

Directions

In a small jar with an airtight lid add gin and cardamom pods. Seal and store for 24 hours.
To make the rosemary simple syrup, bring sugar, water, and 2 rosemary sprigs to a simmer in a small saucepan until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Remove the rosemary and use it right away, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To make the cocktail pour rosemary syrup, infused gin, and grapefruit juice over ice in a cocktail mixer and shake to combine.
Using a strainer, divide the mixture into two glasses filled with fresh ice.
Top with prosecco and garnish with a sprig of rosemary and a grapefruit peel. Cheers!

Courtesy of themodernproper.com

9. Adult Hot Chocolate

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups Whole milk
• 2 tbsp Sugar
• ½ Vanilla bean or 1 tsp vanilla
• 6 oz Dark chocolate (60%)
• 1 tsp Sea salt
• 4 oz Bourbon
• 2 oz Frangelico
• 2 oz Irish cream
• Marshmallows

Directions

In a small saucepan heat milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla over medium-low heat until sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Make sure the milk does not come to a boil. Add the chocolate in pieces, whisking until completely incorporated. Remove from heat.
Once removed from heat, stir in bourbon, Frangelico, and Irish cream. Serve immediately with marshmallows.

Courtesy of themodernproper.com

10. Homemade EggNog

INGREDIENTS

• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1-pint whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/4 fluid ounces bourbon
• 1 1/4 fluid ounces dark rum
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

Directions 

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the egg yolks and 1/3 cup sugar until the yolks lighten in color and the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the milk, cream, bourbon, rum, and nutmeg and stir to combine. Move mixture to a medium mixing bowl and set aside.
Place the egg whites in the bowl of the stand mixer and beat to soft peaks. With the mixer still running, gradually add the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar and beat until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the mixture. Chill and serve.

Courtesy of altonbrown.com

You may also be interested: Staying Fit for the New Year – 10 Ways to Start the year off Healthy

“BBQ lovers unite: Memphis is the ultimate destination for your cravings”

The post A Local Spin on Holiday Cocktails! appeared first on We Are Memphis.

Fall is here! That’s right sweet summer children of Memphis, the official first day of fall was Tuesday, September 22 (and the weather will soon be catching up and cooling down). What better way to celebrate our coming Autumn equinox, than to craft a few incredibly special Fall inspired cocktails!   We’ve searched high and low, and here are our picks for the 5 best Fall inspired cocktails!

BONUS: Movie Pairings! – Once your drinks have been mixed and mastered, take these tastes, and sit down with our movie pairing suggestion! Both experiences will be better by enjoying them together!

 1. The Fantastic Hot buttered Rum

Kicking off our Fall cocktail list, is Hot Buttered Rum. This is a perfect pairing for the cool autumn nights that have more than just a slight hint of the season in the air. 

INGREDIENTS LIST

•   1 teaspoon cinnamon
•   1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
•   1/4 teaspoon cardamom
•   1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
•   1 stick unsalted butter, soft
•   2 cup dark brown sugar

Directions:

1. Cream together the butter, sugar, and spices. Stir liberally. You should be able to roll this into a log. Cover completely and refrigerate or freeze.
2. Find your favorite mug and add a tablespoon of the butter mix.
3.   Pour in the 1/2/3 ounces of rum along with about ½ a cup of hot water.

 Movie Pairing: The Fantastic Mr. Fox

 2. Autumn “Colors of the Wind” Sangria

Just because it’s cool outside doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a cold, refreshing, fizzy, and fantastic Sangria.

INGREDIENTS LIST

• 2 tart apples, Pink Lady or Braeburn, thinly sliced
• 2 Anjou pears, thinly sliced
• 6 tangerines, thinly sliced
• 2 cups unfiltered apple juice
• 1 ½ cups orange liqueur, such as Cointreau
•  2 750-ml bottles sparkling wine, Prosecco or Cava, chilled

Directions:

1.  In a large pitcher or glass jar, combine sliced fruit, apple juice and orange liqueur.
2. Stir and taste multiple times, just to make sure.
3. Chill for 30 minutes in your refrigerator. (not you! The Sangria!)
4.  Top with chilled sparkling wine and stir (again) and taste (again)
5.  Pour heavily into a large glass and enjoy!

Movie Pairing: Disney’s Pocahontas

3.  The Irish(man) Coffee

Sometimes, you just need a little “something” in your glass of coffee to get you through the day, or this incredibly long and complicated movie. But, just like the film, The end result will have you thinking about things a little differently. (and that’s the point!)

INGREDIENTS LIST

• 6 oz Hot Coffee
• 2 oz Baileys Original Irish Cream
• 1 oz Irish Whiskey
• 1 DOLLOP Whipped Cream (optional)

Directions:

1. Brew a cup of your favorite (premium) coffee
2. Add 2 oz’s of Baileys Irish Cream
3. Pour in 1 oz of Irish whiskey (or more depending on how cold it is outside)
4. Top with Whipped Cream (just because you deserve it)

 Movie Pairing: The Irishman

4.  The Sleepy Orange Tyme Old Fashioned

This Cocktail combines the tastes and feeling of Autumn with an old Fashioned sense of adventure…

INGREDIENTS LIST

• 2 oz. bourbon
• 1 tbsp. Orange-Thyme Simple Syrup
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• Ice
• Orange-Thyme Simple Syrup (Combine 4 strips orange zest, 3 sprigs thyme, and 1 cup each sugar and water in a small saucepan. Simmer until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and cool; strain.)
• 4 strips orange zest
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 1 c. sugar
• 1 c. water

Directions:

1. Make the Orange-Thyme simple syrup
2. Place bourbon, Orange-Thyme Simple Syrup (recipe below), and Angostura bitters in a cocktail shaker top with ice.
3. Shake vigorously until shaker is cold, 10 to 20 seconds. Strain into a glass with a large ice cube.
4. Serve with a strip of orange zest and a thyme sprig.

Movie Pairing: Sleepy Hollow

5. Spiced (and Spiked!) Mexican Hot COCO

Come back to life again with this spiked and spicy version of a Autumn Classic! It’s… to die for?

 INGREDIENTS LIST

• 4 c. whole milk
• 2 c. half-and-half
• 1/2 c. dulce de leche
• 2 Cinnamon sticks
• 10 oz. 70% dark chocolate
• 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp. Kosher salt
• 1/2 c. bourbon

 Directions:

1. Whisk together milk, half-and-half, dulce de leche, and cinnamon sticks in a large saucepan.
2. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 10 minutes.
3. Return mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in finely chopped 70 percent dark chocolate, whisking until melted and smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in pure vanilla extract, kosher salt, and bourbon, if desired. Discard cinnamon sticks. Serve warm.

Movie Pairing: Pixar’s COCO

You might also be interested in: New Restaurants in Memphis!

The post 5 Fall Inspired Cocktails appeared first on We Are Memphis.

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.

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.

Inkwell

Located in the Edge District, Inkwell’s cocktails are seriously something else! The mixologists are truly talented, mixing up inventive flavors on a rotating menu. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or a fun hangout with friends, Inkwell Bar guarantees an unforgettable experience that’ll have you coming back for more.

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.

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.

A fan of Memphis craft beer? Go here!

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Cover photo credit: Old Dominick Distillery Instagram

What makes Old Dominick Distillery so special?

The discovery of an old bottle of Old Dominick Toddy inspired Chris and Alex to open Old Dominick Distillery in 2016. The building, which is reminiscent of times long past, has vintage furnishings that will take you back to the old days before Prohibition, when whiskey flowed like water and no one was a stranger. The first bottle of Old Dominick whiskey produced in the new distillery was the first that was legally produced in the state since the end of Prohibition. The rich taste of the whiskey and the rich history of the Canale family blend together to make to make Old Dominick one of the most unique distilleries in Tennessee.

Take a tour

Old Dominick Distillery offers tours of the distillery on a regular basis. Each tour gives you an inside look as to how the spirits are produced and the lengths to which the company goes to ensure that each batch of their booze is of the highest possible quality. On days that the distillery hosts a private event, the last tour normally starts at 2 p.m.

Dinner? Drinks? Late-night adventures with friends?

If you want to go out on the town and spend time in one of the most unique bars in all of Memphis, Old Dominick is the place for you. You can host a private event or go on a night when it’s open to the public. Have fun! Cut loose and enjoy a little bit of history with a couple of shots of genuine Tennessee whiskey.

When you visit Old Dominick Distillery, you are taking a step back into history. The Canale family and the city of Memphis have been through thick and thin together, and both have come out shining. If you’re visiting the Memphis area, stop by and “Share a Sip of Pure Memphis” with the staff of Old Dominick Distillery. Cheers!

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