“Party” listings
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Crossroads
Don’t let the location fool you. Situated in a mostly rundown Midtown neighborhood, Crossroads is one of the most flamboyant bars in the city. Stop in for over-the-top talent shows, pool and dart tournaments and bingo throughout the week. (09/2011)
1278 Jefferson Ave
901-272-8801 -
Gumby’s Pub
Named after Brewers former second baseman Jim Gantner, this casual bar is more sportsthemed than sports bar. It’s a great place to watch a game, but it’s also a lively, welcoming place to sip some suds and enjoy good conversation with its many regulars. (08/2011)
2151 S Kinnickinnic Ave
414-763- 4935
facebook.com/GumbysPub -
Dublin House
Guinness, Harp and Smithwick's flow like water at this Midtown pub. Pool tables, darts and flat-screen TVs will entertain you should the conversation lull. (08/2011)
2021 Madison Ave
901-278-0048 -
Yosemite Sam’s
Every night is karaoke night at this dive bar. Groups of friends gather here to practice their best Pat Benatar and Rick Springfield impersonations, without taking themselves too seriously. The DJ boasts a massive selection of songs, so come get silly. (05/2011)
2126 Madison Ave
901-726-6138 -
Side Street Grill
Just a block from Playhouse on the Square, this is the perfect spot for pre-show martinis. Choose from a long list that includes chocolate, nutty and wedding cake flavors. Order a jumbo for max value. (03/2011)
35 Florence St
901-274-8955 -
MURPHY’S
Despite Murphy’s shamrock logo, this Midtown bar is more punk club than Irish pub. Crowds cram into the tiny dive bar to catch shows by local punk and metal bands on the weekends. (01/2011)
1589 Madison Ave
901-726-4193
murphysmemphis.com -
MR. HANDY’S BLUES HALL
The last real juke joint on Beale Street, this tiny blues hall features live music by local artists nightly. While you’re there, check out blues memorabilia and W.C. Handy family photos. (01/2011)
174 Beale St
901-528-0150 -
PAULA & RAIFORD’S DISCO
Put on your dancing shoes, because disco is alive and well at Paula & Raiford’s. The Jheri curl-sporting DJ Raiford spins 1970s dance hits into the wee hours while a mirrored ball and fog machines set the scene. (11/2010)
4 S Second St
901-521-2494
paularaifords.com -
LOCAL GASTROPUB
Making friends at this pub is easy, thanks to a bar-length community table. Catch someone’s eye over a Fat Tire and hand-cut sweet potato fries. (05/2010)
95 S Main St
901-473-9573
localgastropub.com -
ROCK-AND-ROLL CAFÉ
Across the street from the King’s former home, this funky juke joint features concerts from Graceland’s official Elvis tribute artist. (05/2010)
3715-5 Elvis Presley Blvd
901-398-5692
rocknrollph...ollcafe.htm -
THE POPLAR LOUNGE
Bikers, suits, college kids and neighborhood regulars sip cocktails and listen to live music side by side at this dive bar. If you’re lucky, you might end up in the middle of a bluegrass jam session. (03/2010)
2586 Poplar Ave
901-324-1233
poplarlounge.com -
ONIX
Though Onix serves great food, it's even better as a nightspot. The patio seating offers great views of trolleys and hansom carriages passing by, and musicians perform on weekends. Visit on Mondays for two-for-one margaritas. (12/2009)
412 S Main St
901-552-4609
www.onixrestaurant.com
