Silky O'Sullivan's - When Memphis and Ireland Collide...

Location: 183 Beale Street, Memphis, TN, 38103
Phone Number: (901)522-9596
Cover Charge: $5
Food: BBQ, Fried Food, Burgers - Menu
Entertainment: Piano Bar, Live Music, Drunk Goats
Crowd: Young, Old, Rich, Poor...
Service: Good Service
Cleanliness: Decently Clean Beale Street Bar
Drink Specials: $18 Divers, $8 Hurricanes, $3 Dom./$5 Imp. (16 oz) - $5 Dom. 10$ Imp. (28 oz)
Smoker Friendly: Yes
Review:
Every time I've been to Silky's, I've been pleased. It's a Beale Street staple, known for its back-yard goats and gallon-deep divers. If you're walking down Beale and want to know why people are carrying around a big yellow bucket, it's because they just finished a famous Memphis beverage whose taste can be likened to that of "every single bar beverage plus a wedding cake in a bucket," or "beer, liquor, and sugar." You can only get it at Silky's.

Silky's is a very versatile bar, which is important for the life of any bar on Beale. Immediately inside, you are greeted by a large room with a small bar on your left, and a large one on your right. Towards left about halfway down the room are two head-to-head grand pianos that battle it out all night long. If inside isn't the place for you, walk to the back right of the room and take the door outside to the back patio. Generally, there will be a live band playing music that keeps the mood lively.

Also outside is the famous Silky's goat named Killian. He lives in the back and likes to keep watch from the top of his spiral-shaped tower. But, if he's in the proper mood, he'll be down at the fence showing his good side for a bottle of beer - no joke.

Silky's has something for everyone. If you don't feel like paying a cover, stop at one of their outside bars, buy a diver, and roam up and down Beale. If you have the chance, stop by and say "hello" to Mr. O'Sullivan himself. He'll be the one sitting on a throne, smoking his cigar, and enjoying the crowd he's brought in town since 1992.

Website: http://www.silkyosullivans.com/

Sauces - Mojito Bar Extraordinaire

Location: 95 S Main St. Memphis, TN 38103
Phone Number: (901)473-9573
Cover Charge: N/A
Food: Seafood, Salads, Sandwiches, Sauces - Menu
Entertainment: Music, WiFi
Crowd: Varied, Casually Fancy
Service: Wonderful
Cleanliness: Very Clean
Drink Specials: $7.75-$8.75 Mojitos
Smoker Friendly: No
Review: For those who don't know, a mojito is mixed drink made from rum, sugar, lime, mint, and carbonated water, and Sauces pretty much specializes in making the perfect one. They have a selection of about 10 different types of mojitos ranging from the standard "10 Cane" to a "Spiced Peach" or a "Pomegranate" mojito and they all sound and look delicious.

I originally heard about Sauces from my girlfriend. She had a girls-night here and immediately insisted afterwards that she and I take a night to visit it. Prior to Sauces, my only experience with mojitos were of the pre-mixed "place in the freezer and stir" variety. I was pretty excited to give the real ones a try. The bar/restaurant is located on the Main strip and is tucked neatly in a corner of a building. They have a small delightful outside patio lit-up by white lights that could be pretty cozy and romantic during the warmer months. Inside I found a bar with a very unique theme. Contemporarily-decorative lights hang from the ceiling and give the room a soft feel while featured local artwork hangs from the deep red-bricked walls. I quickly got the impression that Sauces appreciates all forms of modern art.

The room felt relatively tight and small, maybe a little crammed. Candle-lit tables lined the walls and were situated pretty close together, and I wasn't sure where we were going to sit or if we'd even have enough privacy. The hostess then led us to the back of the room, down a set of stairs, and into a whole new room with larger tables spread further apart. We didn't sit at the bar, but I need to describe it because it really was fascinating. The first thing that caught my eye was the variety of colors. Sharp but soft greens, blues, reds, and yellows dressed the bar, the bottles, and the walls. The backdrop was a white opaque wall, but behind it was a red light that gave the appearance of tasteful graffiti. They put a lot of good work into making the entire bar eye-catching.

Another thing that caught my eye was the artwork. My girlfriend informed me that the paintings on the walls came from local artists. She pointed out the small tags hanging from the corners and told me that they were also for sale. I think that's a pretty cool way to help support the local art scene. Most, if not all of the paintings were beautiful and gave their own little 'flavor' to the room. Having a drink at Sauces is almost a two-in-one because you're not only drinking, but you're also at an art gallery.

We were then seated in the back of the room at a nice table and had a good view of the room. I had a peek at the online menu earlier in the day, so I knew what I wanted. I ordered the "10 Cane Mojito" and my girlfriend asked for the "Mango Mojito." We also ordered entrees: crab cakes for me, mahi-mahi for the girlfriend. The drinks took a while to come out, in fact, the food came out before the drinks. But that's to be expected when the food takes a speedy five minutes to come out. The food was absolutely amazing. My crab cakes were drizzled with one of their signature sauces that gave it a nice spicy kick. The mashed potatoes and veggies came as a side and were delicious. I'm not here to review the food, I just want to point out that if the food tastes that good, the same can be expected of the appetizers, which most people order when out for drinks.

The drinks finally came out and were almost a work of art themselves. No pre-frozen mixed mojitos here - they make them the authentic way, mint leaves and all. Just looking at the picture makes me want another one. Served in a tall glass with ice, mine was very fresh and flavorful. I sampled my girlfriend's mango mojito and it had a nice hint of mango flavoring to it, but it didn't take away from or overpower the "mojito" minty-lime taste. The drinks didn't taste strong at all, but after I had a few sips I could tell that they didn't short-change me on the alcohol. These were very well-mixed drinks. I didn't get to experience it since we were sitting downstairs, but I can imagine the process of making a well-mixed mojito is fun and entertaining to watch, since there are so many steps involved.

The night was very fun and relaxing. Soft modern music was playing in the background, and though the room was filled with people, there was not a lot of loud background noise. Our waitress was very friendly and non-intrusive. I can guarantee that I'll give Sauces another visit, but sadly I don't have a weekly hankerin' for mojitos, so I highly doubt I will be there frequently. However, it is an awesome specialty bar that literally portrays the contemporary art-culture of Memphis.

Anything Else: They have a full bar if mojitos aren't your thing. Open at 11 mon-fri, noon on sat and sun, brunch on Sunday and live music from 4-7.
Website: http://www.saucesmemphis.com/

Circa - by John Bragg

Location: 119 Main Street, Suite 100, Memphis, TN 38103
Phone Number: 901.522.1488
Cover Charge: N/A
Food: Contemporary, Sophisticated, French-inspired Memphis Cuisine. Bar Menu
Entertainment: TV at the bar, Private room available w/ Wi-Fi and 50'' Plasma Screen
Crowd: Classy
Service: Excellent
Cleanliness: Spic-and-span
Drink Specials: Happy Hour Specials from 4-7 every night

• Mon - $5.00 Martinis
• Tues - $2.50 Beers including Microbrews and Imports
• Wed - $8.00 Featured Wine Flights
• Thurs - Scotch Night - All Single Malts $2.00 off
• Fri & Sat - Complimentary Hors d'Ouvres
• Sun - Tasting Menu w/ Wine Parings - $45 per person. $3.00 Small Plates at the Bar

Smoker Friendly: No, smoking not allowed in restaurants in Memphis
Review:
irca, "the best reason to dine downtown," was a fun experience, and an excellent Memphis bar. I had first heard about it through Paul Ryburn's Blog, a pretty famous blogger/drinker in downtown Memphis. My first impressions before experiencing this place were a little different from the actual experience. Initially, I was under the impression Circa was on the same page as the Flying Saucers, the Blue Monkey's, etc. I was expecting loud music and lots of people - your general 'bar'. However, I was surprised to find out my experience was quite different from what I had expected.

Circa is an upscale, swanky, and contemporary restaurant located on the Main Street strip. I'm ashamed to say this was my first time walking down this block of Main. I was quite impressed. Outside Circa were some tables gently illuminated by small white-stringed lights hanging from above. I was dressed in jeans and an untucked button-up, and immediately I felt a little embarrassed to walk inside because I felt underdressed. My group and I were greeted at the front and I mentioned we were just there for the bar. The greeter (which also turned out to be our bartender for the evening) told us enthusiastically to "have a seat!" I was really impressed with the decor. It felt very upscale and contemporarily artsy - perfect for Main Street. I brought my camera to take pictures, but sadly it had run out of batteries before I could snap any photos. The lighting was soft, and it paired well with the upbeat jazz flowing through the room.

The four of us sat down at the bar and took up nearly a third of the seating. The bar had a handful of stools, and behind us were a few small tables. I realized then that Circa was a restaurant first and a bar second. Not a problem! We asked to see the drink menus which had plenty of great beers to choose from. Not only that, but they had over 50 wines by the glass to choose, and have the city's largest collection of scotches. I ordered a beer, the bartender poured it in a glass for me, and the night began.

I was very caught up with the look and feel of the place. The bar area was fantastic. The bottles behind the bar were sitting on a neat looking wooden-type shelf. Each bottle had its own square. Not only that, but it was open to the back and you could watch people walk in and out behind the bar. I could have been entertained enough just looking around all night. But if that wouldn't satisfy you, they had a tv playing basketball in the left corner.

Most bars I visit have a stressed-out bartender running around filling drink orders. Rare is the time where I go to a bar and actually talk with the bartender. Our server for the evening asked us to call him House. He was an extremely friendly gentleman who told us a little about the history of the restaurant and the Chef himself. We were there for an hour or so and he talked with us nearly the entire time. Now, I'm sure he would have left us alone if he could sense we just wanted to drink and sit, but a social crowd and conversation is always welcome. I have to say that House's friendliness helped make Circa more than just a plain 'ole bar.

House told us that Circa has been selling Absinthe at the bar for a while now. If you aren't aware, Absinthe has been noted as a drink with other powerful side effects other than drunkenness. It has been said that it inspired many great writers and musicians centuries ago. The United States had banned the beverage up until recently. But, if you're curious, go sample it at Circa. We were told if we were going to drink it, we had to make sure it's the first thing we have for optimum effects, so if you try it, don't pre-drink. Our bartender also let us know that they have a beer that was brewed just for Circa that they sell. It's brewed by Bosco's, a noted beer-joint in Memphis. I don't see it on their menu, but it's supposedly very good, so ask for their Main Street beer next time you're there. Also I learned that, Circa has some reputable claims:

• Circa is the only restaurant in Memphis that serves Bosco's brewed beer on tap.
• They have the largest selection of scotches in the city, 50+ available. (Maybe I should start drinking scotch?)

Circa is a very modern-day bar that can accommodate a handful of people. The food looks exquisite and the drinks are plentiful. As a guy right out of college, I probably won't become a regular there, but you can bet that it would be a superb place for me to take my girlfriend for special occasions or "just because" nights. Keep in mind that Circa is probably better suited for a small group of friends when it comes to just drinking, as the bar lacks big tables for a large party. Though I suppose a large group could just as easily be served at a table away from the bar. This bar is perfect for all groups of people including visitors as well as locals who are a little tired of the loud and obnoxious bar-scene and would like to drink to a little sophistication.

Anything Else:
Bosco's draft beer, Cream Ale, Pale Ale
Free Valet Parking. Open from 4p-10p Sunday thru Thursday, 4p-11p Friday and Saturday.

Website: http://www.circamemphis.com/

The Blue Monkey

Location: Two Locations

• 2012 Madison Ave. Memphis, TN 38104
• 513 S Front St. Memphis, TN 38103

Phone Number: (901) 272-2583
Cover Charge: $5
Food: Full Menu - Great Pizzas
Entertainment: Live Music, Pool Tables
Crowd: Variable. College-Middle Age
Service: Good Service
Cleanliness: Clean
Drink Specials: $3.50 well dirty martinis
Smoker Friendly: Yes
Review:

The Blue Monkey is a big hit among Memphians. It is located in Midtown on the corner of Madison and N. Morrison which means that it's a great place for college students as well as older people who need to get out of the house but don't feel like braving the downtown area. Limited parking is located behind the bar on N. Morrison. If that fills up, your only other option is to park around the surrounding neighborhood. It's not a far walk, so don't worry. The Blue Monkey has a wheelchair ramp that enters the back door, but most people use the front.

Immediately upon entering, you are usually greeted with the loud music of a live band playing on the stage to your left. Directly ahead are some wooden tables, and the bar is on the right. If the tables in the main room are full, just check the spare room on your far right - There may be some free tables there. Once you find a seat, decide what you want to drink. The Blue Monkey has around 35 beers on tap and a full bar, so they will more than likely be able to accomodate any of your beer drinking or liquor sipping needs. I enjoy a dirty martini occasionally, and they have a surprisingly good vodka dirty martini for only $3.50 a pop. If you're hungry, they have pretty darn good food. I recommend any of their pizzas.

The Blue Monkey is a medium sized bar. If you don't enjoy bars that are so crowded your shoulders are always touching somebody else, this place may be great for you. You can move to the very back and shoot some pool, or if you're a loner, they have some of those electronic bar-top games that will keep you company. They also have TV's that are turned on to sports for those sitting in front of the bar so you don't have to miss out on your favorite team.

I don't go to this bar as often as I probably should. It's reasonably priced for Midtown, not incredibly crowded, and it has all of the entertainment and beer to keep me happy. If you're in the area, give it a go and let me know what you think about it. I know you won't be let down.

Anything Else: I have not been to their downtown location - I will update and include a review of the downtown Blue Monkey after I visit it.
Website: N/A

The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

One of the Greats.
Location: Two Locations

• Downtown - 130 Peabody Place, Memphis, TN 38103
• Cordova - 1400 N Germantown Pkwy, Cordova, TN, 38016

Phone Number:

• Downtown - (901) 523-7468
• Cordova - (901) 755-5530

Cover Charge: Weekend nights usually, $3-5, free for members. (See "Anything Else" below)
Food: Full Menu - heard rumors the Cordova Saucer scored a 40% on their health inspection. It doesn't stop me though, and it may only be rumors.
Entertainment: Occasional Live Music, TV's, Pool Tables (Downtown Only), Darts (Both Locations)
Crowd: Wide variety.
Service: Some rude waitresses and some incredibly friendly waitresses during slow and peak hours. Though sometimes you need to take your own orders to the bar during peak times (Pint-Nite: Mondays, and mostly downtown only.)
Cleanliness: Clean - though see "Food:" section above.
Drink Specials: All nights features a "Fire Sale." This is one beer that sells for $2.75 a pint. Excellent deal if you ask me. The Fire Sales are usually very good beers that you cannot find at normal locations. Pint Nite (Mondays) sells most draft pints for $2.50 a piece. Where else can you find beer such as Newcastle or Young's Double Chocolate Stout for that price?
Smoker Friendly: Yes
Review:
If you're a beer drinker, this bar is for you. If you aren't, a visit or two will turn you into one. This bar has two fine locations - one in the middle of the downtown, and one in the Cordova suburbs. Both locations are great, but each one has its own personality. The downtown location has more of a 'youthful' vibe to it. The big entry room has pool tables, a stage, and picnic table style seating as well as bar stools that face outside. The top half of the side walls open to create an 'open-air' feel. The inside bar area has a long bar with seating and tables scattered throughout. You can find a couple dartboards in the back corner if you're into that. The music playing over the sound system is louder and the song selection caters to the younger crowd.

The Cordova location is similar, but a few things are different. I've noticed the music is a little less loud and caters more to the 'slightly older than the younger' crowd, if that makes sense. The Cordova saucer is generally less crowded and offers an outdoor patio which is amazing in the warmer months. They cover it and put heaters inside during the cooler months. Both Saucers offer the same thing, so both are excellent in my opinion.

The Flying Saucer is also known for its fine-lookin' waitresses. They come ready to take your order in a tight Saucer t-shirt and a plaid school-girl miniskirt. Who can complain about that?

So what if you don't visit on a Pint Nite and you don't particularly care for that night's Fire Sale? They have hundreds of different beers available. Some you have tried, while most you haven't. You can pay anywhere from 3.50 up to 20-30 bucks for a beer if you so choose. They have the beers categorized by types in their beer menu for easy location and selection.

There really isn't much else to say except that The Flying Saucer is a Memphis bar giant. Most everybody knows and loves going to this place. So if you feel up to a fun night with your friends, or if you want to go out and meet people, this is a great place to do it. They have a good reputation and they definitely hold up to it.

Anything Else: Join the U.F.O. club for $14. It gets you a BEERKNURD T-shirt and a personal member's card. Swipe the card when you purchase a new beer, and it will keep track of what you have bought. After you purchased 200 different beers (limit 3 per night), you are rewarded not only with a party in your honor (they'll cover $100 of your bar tab), but also you will receive a plate on the wall with your name on it, letting the masses know what you have accomplished. Becoming a member also eliminates all cover fees. That alone makes it worth it if you're a frequent visitor.
Website: http://www.beerknurd.com/

Pat O'Brien's - A Beale Street Staple

Location: 310 Beale St, Memphis, TN
Phone Number: (901) 529-0900
Cover Charge: Dependant on time of evening & entertainment. Expect to pay $5 to get in.
Food: Full Menu - Cajun Themed
Entertainment: Piano Bar, Live Music
Crowd: Variable. 21-50s not uncommon
Service: Excellent service when not crowded, Decent service when full.
Cleanliness: Clean
Drink Specials: None that I'm aware of. 3-4$ domestics. More for imports. Small variety on tap.
Smoker Friendly: Yes
Review: Update: As of 8/10/08, Pat O's is closed for good. I'll leave the review up if you're curious - I'm sure the other venues are nearly alike too.

Pat O'Brien's (or Pat O's for short) is a Beale Street must. This bar and restaurant is a replica of the famous original location in the French Quartier in New Orleans, but can also be found in other exotic locations such as Orlando and Cancun. It's motto is, "Have Fun!" and they try hard to do just that. The bar itself is modeled from the old-style French architecture and features brick walls, stone walkways, elaborate ironwork, and even it's famous "Fire Fountain."

Inside, you can find different rooms that satisfy any of your social needs: a main bar, piano bar, patio (covered in the winter, a courtyard restaurant, and an upstairs suite. The piano bar is where I find myself most when I visit this bar. Hosts and hostesses dressed to theme serve you drinks while you sit back and join in during your typical piano-bar songs like "Sweet Caroline," "Piano Man," "Tiny Dancer," etc. I also recommend standing up and show your discourage with two thumbs-down or if you're more adventurous, two middle fingers up, while they play "Rocky Top."

Drinks are a little pricier than your favorite hole-in-the-wall bar, but this is to be expected because it's one of the more popular bars on Beale. They don't have a very wide selection of draft beers, but they have just about everything you need in bottles. They'll also make you just about any mixed drink you can think up. Speaking of drinks, if it's your first time there, ask for one of their world-famous "Hurricane" drinks. You can get it in the specialty glass and take it home as a souvenir too.

You'll find a wide range of ages present at Pat O'Brien's. Look left and you'll see a bachelorette party, look right and you'll see an older couple sitting and smiling in the corner. I brought my parents here not too long ago and we all had a great time. This just shows that no matter what your age, Pat O's probably has something to offer you.

So what are the negatives? I'm a little short on cash coming right out of college, so if I don't make it in before 10:00 PM, I'm usually stuck paying a $5 cover. Also, If I don't make it in before midnight, I'm fighting the crowd to find a seat. That's about it though... Because of its novelty, I give Pat O's five out of five beers.
Oh and before I forget, if you parked in the Peabody parking garage, Pat O's validates. Save yourself a few bucks and get that done before you leave.

Anything Else: Ask for a 'Hurricane' if you haven't yet.
Website: http://www.patobriens.com