Beale Street, the iconic heart of Memphis, is not just about blues music and vibrant nightlife; it’s also a fantastic destination for food lovers. From Southern comfort food to barbecue and everything in between, Beale Street offers a diverse culinary scene to satisfy every palate. If you’re planning a visit and wondering where to eat, look no further. Here’s your guide to some of the best spots for Dining On Beale Street.
New Wing Order: Wings and Brews
For a casual and flavorful experience, head to New Wing Order, nestled inside the Ghost River Brewing taproom on Beale Street. Specializing in wings, they boast an impressive selection of 25 signature sauces and dry rubs. Whether you prefer classic buffalo or something more adventurous, New Wing Order has you covered. But don’t limit yourself to just wings; their menu also features must-try items like smokehouse loaded fries and hot wing nachos, perfect for sharing. And of course, being located in Ghost River Brewing, you can pair your meal with a fantastic local craft beer. It’s an ideal spot for an afternoon bite or a late-night snack while enjoying the Beale Street atmosphere.
SugaShack: Southern Comfort Food Staples
Located at either the start or end of Beale Street, depending on your direction, SugaShack is your go-to destination for authentic Southern cuisine. This restaurant serves up all the classics you crave, from crispy fried chicken and flavorful wings to succulent catfish and much more. A local favorite is their perfectly seasoned fried chicken, especially when paired with traditional Southern sides like fried okra and creamy mac & cheese. SugaShack offers a comforting and hearty dining on Beale Street experience, perfect for those seeking a taste of the South.
B.B. King’s Restaurant & Blues Club: BBQ and Blues
B.B. King’s Restaurant & Blues Club is more than just a legendary music venue; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a hearty Southern meal. Here, the experience is all about combining soulful blues with delicious food. Dive into their menu featuring BBQ ribs slathered in B.B. King’s signature house sauce, the comforting King’s Meatloaf, and creamy mac ‘n’ cheese. With a diverse menu that includes Southern and BBQ favorites, B.B. King’s ensures there’s something to please everyone. Come for the live blues music and stay for the satisfying dining on Beale Street experience that embodies the spirit of Memphis.
Dyer’s Cafe: Burgers in 100-Year-Old Grease
After exploring the bars and enjoying the Beale Street nightlife, Dyer’s Cafe is the perfect late-night stop to satisfy your hunger. Famous for frying their burgers in carefully guarded 100-year-old grease, Dyer’s offers a truly unique and indulgent burger experience. These are not your average burgers; they are greasy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying – exactly what you need after a night out on Beale. Dyer’s is a Beale Street institution that stays open late, ensuring you can always get your greasy fix when dining on Beale Street.
A classic single burger from Dyer’s Cafe on Beale Street, cooked in their legendary 100-year-old grease.
Blues City Cafe: Ribs, Gumbo Fries, and Tamales
Blues City Cafe is a quintessential Beale Street dining destination that you simply cannot miss. Highly recommended dishes include their Memphis barbecue ribs, the unique gumbo fries, and Delta-style tamales. Gumbo fries, a standout dish, feature crispy steak-cut fries generously topped with Blues City’s flavorful seafood gumbo. With a lively atmosphere and a menu full of Southern favorites, Blues City Cafe provides a true taste of Memphis and a memorable dining on Beale Street experience.
Itta Bena: Speakeasy Fine Dining
For a more upscale and intimate dining on Beale Street experience, discover Itta Bena. This speakeasy-style restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu inspired by Southern and Cajun flavors. Hidden above B.B. King’s Blues Club, look for the discreet red door to enter this culinary gem. Itta Bena is perfect for a romantic date night or a special occasion, providing a refined contrast to the lively street scene below. Enjoy their expertly crafted dishes in a romantic setting for an unforgettable Beale Street dinner.
The elegant dining room at Itta Bena, a speakeasy-style restaurant located on Beale Street in Memphis.
Rum Boogie Cafe: Live Music and Gator Gumbo
Rum Boogie Cafe is a local favorite known for its vibrant live music and delicious food. While the music is a major draw, their menu also offers tasty Southern comfort food. Fan favorites include their flavorful Gator Gumbo and daily lunch specials, such as turkey and dressing on Tuesdays. Fried catfish and BBQ are also available daily, ensuring a wide variety of options. Rum Boogie provides a lively and authentic dining on Beale Street experience, combining great food with the sounds of Memphis blues.
The iconic neon sign of Rum Boogie Cafe, a popular spot for live music and dining on Beale Street.
King’s Palace Cafe: Championship Gumbo and Patio Vibes
If you’re seeking heartwarming and flavorful dishes, King’s Palace Cafe is a great choice. They proudly tout their “Championship Gumbo” as a must-try, and many patrons agree, also recommending their pasta dishes. When the weather is pleasant, their gated side patio and walk-up bar offer a fantastic atmosphere to enjoy your meal and the Beale Street ambiance. King’s Palace Cafe is perfect for a relaxed and enjoyable dining on Beale Street experience, especially when combined with live music and outdoor seating.
A. Schwab: Dessert and Soda Fountain
For a sweet ending to your dining on Beale Street adventure, step into A. Schwab. As the oldest operating business on Beale Street, A. Schwab offers a charming old-fashioned experience. On one side, you’ll find a general store filled with unique items, and on the other, a delightful soda fountain. Though only open during the day, it’s the perfect family-friendly spot for a daytime treat. Indulge in classic soda fountain favorites like banana splits, hot fudge sundaes, or frothy milkshakes for a nostalgic and sweet conclusion to your Beale Street exploration.
A couple enjoys treats at the old-fashioned soda fountain inside A. Schwab, the oldest store on Beale Street.
Beale Street’s culinary scene is as vibrant and diverse as its music history. From casual wings and Southern comfort food to BBQ, fine dining, and sweet treats, dining on Beale Street offers something for everyone. So come hungry and explore the flavors of this iconic Memphis street!
