Beale Street, the undisputed heart of Memphis, isn’t just about blues music and vibrant nightlife; it’s also a fantastic destination for food lovers. From iconic Memphis BBQ to soulful Southern cuisine and late-night greasy spoons, Beale Street’s restaurants offer a diverse range of flavors to satisfy any craving. If you’re wondering where to eat on Beale Street, look no further. We’ve curated a guide to some of the must-try restaurants that capture the spirit and taste of this legendary street.
1. New Wing Order: Wings and Brews at Ghost River
For wing aficionados, New Wing Order, nestled inside the Ghost River Brewing taproom on Beale Street, is a must-visit. This spot elevates the wing experience with an impressive array of 25 signature sauces and dry rubs, catering to every palate from mild to wild. But the menu extends beyond just wings. Their smokehouse loaded fries and hot wing nachos are equally popular, perfect for sharing or indulging in solo. The best part? You can pair your flavorful meal with a selection of craft beers from Ghost River Brewing, making it an ideal spot for an afternoon bite or a late-night hangout.
2. SugaShack: Southern Comfort Food Staples
Located at the eastern end of Beale Street, SugaShack is your go-to destination for classic Southern comfort food. This restaurant serves up hearty plates of Southern staples like crispy fried chicken, succulent wings, and flaky catfish. For a truly satisfying meal, try their seasoned fried chicken paired with traditional sides like fried okra and creamy mac & cheese. SugaShack offers a taste of authentic Southern home-style cooking right in the heart of Beale Street.
3. B.B. King’s Blues Club: Music and Memphis BBQ
B.B. King’s Blues Club is more than just a legendary music venue; it’s also a great place to enjoy a taste of Memphis. While the live blues music is the main draw, the food menu is equally enticing. Dive into their tender BBQ ribs slathered in B.B. King’s signature house sauce, or try the comforting King’s Meatloaf and creamy mac ‘n’ cheese. The menu features a wide selection of Southern and BBQ favorites, ensuring there’s something to please everyone in your group. It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the Beale Street atmosphere while enjoying classic Southern dishes.
4. Dyer’s Cafe: Burgers Fried in 100-Year-Old Grease
After exploring Beale Street’s nightlife and enjoying a few drinks, Dyer’s Cafe is the quintessential late-night food stop. Famous for frying their burgers in grease that’s been carefully preserved for over 100 years, Dyer’s offers a unique and undeniably greasy burger experience. If you’re looking for a truly indulgent and satisfying meal to cap off your Beale Street adventure, Dyer’s is the place to be. Their simple menu focuses on delivering that classic, craveable burger, perfect for soaking up the night.
A classic single burger from Dyer’s Cafe on Beale Street in Memphis, known for being fried in 100-year-old grease, offering a unique and historic Memphis food experience.
5. Blues City Cafe: BBQ Ribs and Gumbo Fries
Blues City Cafe is a Beale Street institution and a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Memphis flavors. Renowned for its Memphis barbecue ribs, the cafe also boasts other popular dishes like the unique gumbo fries and Delta-style tamales. Gumbo fries, a standout item, are crispy steak-cut fries generously topped with Blues City’s flavorful seafood gumbo. With a lively atmosphere and a menu packed with Southern favorites, Blues City Cafe embodies the Beale Street dining experience.
6. Itta Bena: Upscale Southern and Cajun Dining
For a more refined dining experience on Beale Street, Itta Bena offers a speakeasy-style setting with a menu inspired by Southern and Cajun cuisine. Hidden above B.B. King’s Blues Club, accessible through a discreet red door, Itta Bena provides a romantic and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a date night. Indulge in their sophisticated dishes that blend Southern comfort with Cajun spice, making it a unique culinary destination on Beale Street.
The elegant dining room of Itta Bena restaurant on Beale Street, Memphis, showcasing its upscale ambiance and Southern-Cajun inspired cuisine, a hidden gem for fine dining.
7. Rum Boogie Cafe: Live Music and Gator Gumbo
Rum Boogie Cafe is a favorite for live music enthusiasts and foodies alike. Beyond its vibrant music scene, Rum Boogie has garnered local acclaim for its flavorful Gator Gumbo and daily lunch specials. The lunch special, a meat-and-three plate, changes daily and features home-style entrees like turkey and dressing on Tuesdays. Fried catfish and BBQ are also available daily, offering consistent Southern favorites. Rum Boogie provides a lively and authentic Beale Street experience, combining great food with top-notch music.
The iconic neon sign of Rum Boogie Cafe on Beale Street in Memphis, a landmark known for its live blues music and Southern food, including their famous Gator Gumbo.
8. King’s Palace Cafe: Hearty Gumbo and Pasta Dishes
King’s Palace Cafe is known for its welcoming atmosphere and hearty, heartwarming dishes. Their “Championship Gumbo” is a must-try, praised by locals and visitors alike. Pasta dishes are also highly recommended, offering a comforting and satisfying meal. The cafe also features a gated side patio with a walk-up bar, perfect for enjoying the Beale Street ambiance when the weather is pleasant and live music fills the air.
9. A. Schwab: Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain for Dessert
For a sweet ending to your Beale Street culinary journey, A. Schwab is the oldest operating business on the street and a delightful spot for dessert. This old-fashioned general store houses an adorable soda fountain where you can indulge in classic treats. Order a banana split, a hot fudge sundae, or a frothy milkshake for a nostalgic and family-friendly dessert experience. A. Schwab provides a charming step back in time and a perfect way to conclude your Beale Street restaurant exploration during daytime hours.
A couple enjoying ice cream at the old-fashioned soda fountain inside A. Schwab Dry Goods store on Beale Street, Memphis, the oldest business on the street offering a nostalgic dessert experience.
Beale Street’s restaurants offer a taste of Memphis as vibrant and diverse as the music that fills the air. Whether you’re craving BBQ, Southern comfort food, or a late-night burger, Beale Street has a restaurant to satisfy your appetite and enhance your Memphis experience.
