Published October 19, 2017 on The I Love Memphis Blog
I Love Memphis gets weird today thanks to contributor Stacey – who searched across the city for the most interesting restrooms in all the land – ranging from funky to fancy. Guess where you’ll find each restroom and then scroll to the bottom for the answers.
I did my best to not include any images that had obvious vulgarity, but keep in mind this post may require some appreciation of bathroom humor or tolerance for a scribbled swear. These bathrooms are a mix of women’s/men’s/unisex but there are enough hints it shouldn’t be too biased no matter which room you use.
1. Groovy
This dive bar is known for its art, so it only makes sense that the women’s room would also be a work of art. (Not sure why such attention to detail did not carry out in the men’s room. Maybe the artist got tired?) However, this psychedelic landscape could prove problematic depending on how much one has been drinking.
2. Argggh
Once upon a time, this bar’s ladies’ room had a lovely poster of Audrey Hepburn facing the porcelain throne. Now, there’s a rheumy-eyed pirate creepily staring at you.
3. Welcome to The Funhouse
this is truly the weirdest bathroom in Memphis
These legendary funhouse bathrooms – both men’s and women’s – have survived various incarnations of this restaurant space. No one knows if this M.C. Escher inspired tiled masterpiece was created on purpose or by necessity, but those prone to vertigo may want to steer clear.
4. What Is Even Happening
Two toilets facing each other in the ladies’ room. How is this a thing?
5. Yikes
Once home to a solid group of old timers, this much loved dive bar has been reclaimed by the young and hip. Here you’ll find a great juke box, a pretty messed up but playable pool table, and one of the most notorious bathrooms in all of Memphis. Fellas, too many beers affecting your ability to direct the stream to its intended target? No worries, what happens on the floor here, stays on the floor here. (Hey, things could be worse, it could be carpeted!)
6. He Said It
The bathrooms at this late night stop are among the cleanest in town, believe it or not. While the women’s room is rather boring, save for a little political graffiti, the men’s room is a shrine to a former employee. Apparently, he was known for his witticisms. A long time regular tells me that the list that covers all four walls was a work in progress for many years while he was still alive and slinging hot wings.
7. What Wondrous Graffiti
Home to artists, poets, and comics, this bar’s bathrooms were once a place of inspiration thanks to the literary thoughts scrawled on the walls. These days, the women’s room contains campy drawings of both male and female nether regions, and the drunken scribble centers on calling out men for their bad behavior. If the complicated and time consuming graffiti in the men’s room is any indication, many men have sought refuge there.
8. Hello Beautiful
Clearly a woman (or a very smart man) added this little touch to the ladies’ room at this newish downtown watering hole. It’s guaranteed to bring a smile and has probably resulted in a quite a few women inadvertently striking up a conversation with a brick wall.
9. Ladies lounge
This is the best kept secret on this famous street, at least for the ladies in need of a clean place to take a pitstop. Come up the fire escape and walk right in, whether you plan to dine or not. (Shhh!) This bathroom could easily be mistaken for a swanky cocktail bar thanks to its luxurious seating area and romantic lighting. Speaking of if walls could talk…I imagine quite a bit of gossip and shenanigans have gone on in here.
10. Refurbished
One of midtown’s fine dining establishments is undergoing a total refresh, and that includes the bathrooms. This recently redone ladies’ room has handmade wallpaper and a nice little side table for your purse and phone.
11. Shiny and New
Looking for a classy place to leave that oak barrel-aged overflow? These bathrooms are super brand-new and so shiny. It appears they’ve taken the same care in designing the restrooms as they have the rest of the facility.
12. Artsy
Technically not a bar, but you can get a free drink here one Friday a month. Two unisex bathrooms serve as private galleries of sorts as they feature fine art by two of this establishment’s “regulars.” Tad Lauritzen Wright’s most recent show, “The Politics of Power,” which consisted of single line drawings, extends into one bathroom. (Greely Myatt’s work, which includes a zipper in the wall, graces the other.)
Answers
1. Canvas
2. The Cove
3. Midtown Crossing
4. Westy’s
5. Lamplighter
6. Alex’s Tavern
Former employee Sonny was known for his witticisms (aka “Sonnyisms”).
7. P&H
8. The Dirty Crow
9. Itta Bena on Beale Street
10. Tsunami (Part-owner and artist Colleen Couch Smith did the redesigning, which includes freaking handmade wall paper!)
11. Old Dominick Distillery
12. David Lusk Gallery
Have more quiz ideas for Memphis? More weird bathrooms? Leave em in the comments.
Showing posts with label about town. Show all posts
Showing posts with label about town. Show all posts
Monday, October 16, 2017
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
Ride Your Bike (or Drive Your Dang Car) to CJ’s Blues Club in West Memphis
Published August 16, 2017 on the I Love Memphis Blog
Ed. Note: Contributor Stacey has another gem for us in West Memphis, aka another reason to ride your bike/walk across the Big River Crossing. Or, as she says, you can just drive your dang car over to CJs to check out this new Mid-South patio.
You’ve ridden to Pancho’s, now it’s time to go a couple more blocks to CJ’s Blues and Sports Bar in West Memphis! CJ, whose real name is Clem Johnson, has noticed you guys.
He says, “When bikers come over [The Big River Crossing] they have nowhere to ride to. What they normally do is ride to the store and turn around and go back.” He wants you to stay awhile.
After talking to a few cyclists about opening up his patio on weekends, they encouraged him to do so. CJ enlisted the help of local artist (and tour guide extraordinaire), Tad Pierson to turn his formerly empty lot into a bonafide oasis.
CJ and Tad spent a few days hunting car and tractor tires in Crittenden County to paint and repurpose over the course of a couple of weeks. They came up with about 50 of them. As CJ says, “People throw away car tires everyday.”
Those old tires are now colorful tables, chairs, and planters. In addition to tires, CJ repurposed some old pallets to make an outdoor stage. Now Memphis bicyclists (ok and you drivers too) have a seriously cool place to hang, drink beer, eat barbeque, and listen to the blues.
He also plans to open up the back of the building where there’s a jukebox and a pool table. He’s got nice bathrooms for you too.
CJ is having a grand opening party for the new patio this Sunday, August 20, 2017 from 11 a.m. until 5.p.m. Ms. Nickki, who you may know from Wild Bill’s, will be performing along with Big John Cummings (a recording artist and writer for Bobby Rush) and Memphis’s own Soul Connection. (Show time is 2 p.m.)
CJ will be selling ribs, fish, and smoked sausage for $10 a plate. Cold beers are $2-$4 and bottled water is $1. Bring cash.
Can’t make it Sunday? No worries. CJ will open the patio every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from here on out from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. He says everyone is welcome. So go on and get a taste of West Memphis!
Go there:
CJ’s Blues and Sports Bar
3110 E Broadway Ave, West Memphis, AR 72301
Sunday, August 20th, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
(Then every Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
Ed. Note: Contributor Stacey has another gem for us in West Memphis, aka another reason to ride your bike/walk across the Big River Crossing. Or, as she says, you can just drive your dang car over to CJs to check out this new Mid-South patio.
You’ve ridden to Pancho’s, now it’s time to go a couple more blocks to CJ’s Blues and Sports Bar in West Memphis! CJ, whose real name is Clem Johnson, has noticed you guys.
He says, “When bikers come over [The Big River Crossing] they have nowhere to ride to. What they normally do is ride to the store and turn around and go back.” He wants you to stay awhile.
After talking to a few cyclists about opening up his patio on weekends, they encouraged him to do so. CJ enlisted the help of local artist (and tour guide extraordinaire), Tad Pierson to turn his formerly empty lot into a bonafide oasis.
CJ and Tad spent a few days hunting car and tractor tires in Crittenden County to paint and repurpose over the course of a couple of weeks. They came up with about 50 of them. As CJ says, “People throw away car tires everyday.”
Those old tires are now colorful tables, chairs, and planters. In addition to tires, CJ repurposed some old pallets to make an outdoor stage. Now Memphis bicyclists (ok and you drivers too) have a seriously cool place to hang, drink beer, eat barbeque, and listen to the blues.
He also plans to open up the back of the building where there’s a jukebox and a pool table. He’s got nice bathrooms for you too.
CJ is having a grand opening party for the new patio this Sunday, August 20, 2017 from 11 a.m. until 5.p.m. Ms. Nickki, who you may know from Wild Bill’s, will be performing along with Big John Cummings (a recording artist and writer for Bobby Rush) and Memphis’s own Soul Connection. (Show time is 2 p.m.)
CJ will be selling ribs, fish, and smoked sausage for $10 a plate. Cold beers are $2-$4 and bottled water is $1. Bring cash.
Can’t make it Sunday? No worries. CJ will open the patio every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from here on out from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. He says everyone is welcome. So go on and get a taste of West Memphis!
Go there:
CJ’s Blues and Sports Bar
3110 E Broadway Ave, West Memphis, AR 72301
Sunday, August 20th, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
(Then every Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
Saturday, July 15, 2017
A Day at the Park
Published July 2017 in Edible Memphis
I have purposely lived within a mile of Overton Park for most of my adult life. In college, I was a frequent visitor to the (then car-free) Greensward, where it was common for folks to let their pups run free, chase balls, and take dips in Rainbow Lake. After getting married to a wilderness man, I added regular hiking in the Old Forest trails. After kids, we added in an hour on the playground.
Back in the day, Overton Park was considered a little sketchy. These days, thanks in part to the efforts of Citizens to Preserve Overton Park (CPOP), the Overton Park Conservancy (OPC), and the Levitt Shell, Overton Park is beloved by many. In fact, there’s so much to do now, you’d be hard-pressed to do it all in a single day. Here I share some suggestions on how to enjoy the park from dusk til dawn without breaking the bank.
Get Moving
Go for a run or a walk. I love starting the day — like before the sun comes up — in the park. My running group, the Running Republic, meets at the Abe Goodman Golf House on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 am for an easy, four-mile run. There are plenty of other people running, walking, strolling with their pups, or otherwise getting in a workout. However, the park is still fairly empty and it’s lovely to experience it this way.
Refuel
Have breakfast or lunch at Café Brooks by Paradox inside the Brooks Museum. The Café is in the former gift shop spot, and you don’t have to pay admission to dine there. They have a brightly lit, colorful space that opens up to the lobby. I like dining in, but you could also grab something to go and picnic in the Shell. The menu changes often, but they have an extensive selection of coffee, pastries, soups, sandwiches, and salads. On my most recent visit, I tried the Melon Salad (mixed greens, compressed melon, baked brie, and a broken vinaigrette) as well as the Sushi Bowl (sushi rice, avocado, nori, raw tuna, cucumber, peanuts and pickled melon). But I was also very, very jealous of my companion’s Grown Up Grilled Cheese featuring Benton’s bacon, roasted tomatoes, aged cheddar, pimento cheese, and caramelized onions.
Get Cultured
The Brooks Museum is well worth the $7 admission fee, though you can it enjoy for free (or by donation) on Wednesdays. Or, do it right and just buy a membership. The Brooks Outside program is also something you can enjoy without spending a penny. Remember the giant red ball? The inflatable bunnies? How about that awesome tape art? Stop by to see if they’ve got anything cooking. While you’re at it, pop into the College of Art to see the student art on display.
Refresh
Enjoy a beer on the Golf House patio. Café Brooks has local beer on tap, but my favorite place to have a beer in the park is at the Golf House. They have a great selection of canned beers (local and regional included), and they are only $2.50 each — no matter the flavor. Plus, the Golf House has an amazing patio. It’s the perfect place to sit and people watch. It’s also another option for dining al fresco, as long as you bring your own food.
Pro tip: the Golf House has the cleanest, nicest public restrooms in the park.
Ride a Bike
I definitely recommend not driving to the park — the less cars there, the better. If you don’t have a bike, don’t worry, the Golf House has a fleet of grown up trikes that are only $5 an hour to rent and just happen to be perfect for exploring the Old Forest roads (which are closed to traffic). This is an especially shady spot to escape the summer heat. Hop on and go get your photo taken at each one of the gates that have been installed by local artists Tyler French, Yvonne Bobo, and Ben Butler.
Hike the Trails
If you really want relief from the summer sun, hit the trails. The best thing about the Old Forest is that it’s usually several degrees cooler than the outside world. Download (or use your phone to look at) the Old Forest map on OPC’s website http://trails.overtonpark.org). A map is also posted over by the red playground on the East Parkway side, if you just want to snap a picture of it. Don’t worry if you get turned around, it’s pretty hard to get lost forever on the trails, even if you really want to.
Pro tip: OPC’s website also has field guides to plants and birds if that’s your thing.
Enjoy the Greensward
Don’t let the overflow Zoo parking deter you from taking up your fair share of this lovely open green space. (Do let it piss you off though!) Take a blanket and just enjoy the day, kick a soccer ball, throw a Frisbee, eat a pop from the MemPops truck — you get the idea. Stay as long as you like, and maybe even watch the sun set.
Spend the Night & Step Up
Okay, not the whole night, but chances are there’s something special going on in the evening. Check the Levitt Shell’s page for information on their free summer and fall concert series. (Shows are typically Thursday through Sunday.) On Wednesdays, you can sometimes find live music at the Golf House. The Brooks Museum also has excellent evening programming, typically on Wednesdays. The Overton Park Farmer’s Market takes place Thursdays from 3–7 pm under the East Parkway pavilion. The College of Art sometimes hosts art openings on Fridays and there are special markets throughout the year.
Being active involves more than just enjoying. Invite a friend (especially one who has never seen what Overton Park has to offer). Make a donation to CPOP. Become an OPC member. Volunteer.
See what I mean about fitting it all in? Once you’ve experienced all (or some!) of what the park has to offer, make plans to go back.
I have purposely lived within a mile of Overton Park for most of my adult life. In college, I was a frequent visitor to the (then car-free) Greensward, where it was common for folks to let their pups run free, chase balls, and take dips in Rainbow Lake. After getting married to a wilderness man, I added regular hiking in the Old Forest trails. After kids, we added in an hour on the playground.
Back in the day, Overton Park was considered a little sketchy. These days, thanks in part to the efforts of Citizens to Preserve Overton Park (CPOP), the Overton Park Conservancy (OPC), and the Levitt Shell, Overton Park is beloved by many. In fact, there’s so much to do now, you’d be hard-pressed to do it all in a single day. Here I share some suggestions on how to enjoy the park from dusk til dawn without breaking the bank.
Get Moving
Go for a run or a walk. I love starting the day — like before the sun comes up — in the park. My running group, the Running Republic, meets at the Abe Goodman Golf House on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 am for an easy, four-mile run. There are plenty of other people running, walking, strolling with their pups, or otherwise getting in a workout. However, the park is still fairly empty and it’s lovely to experience it this way.
Refuel
Have breakfast or lunch at Café Brooks by Paradox inside the Brooks Museum. The Café is in the former gift shop spot, and you don’t have to pay admission to dine there. They have a brightly lit, colorful space that opens up to the lobby. I like dining in, but you could also grab something to go and picnic in the Shell. The menu changes often, but they have an extensive selection of coffee, pastries, soups, sandwiches, and salads. On my most recent visit, I tried the Melon Salad (mixed greens, compressed melon, baked brie, and a broken vinaigrette) as well as the Sushi Bowl (sushi rice, avocado, nori, raw tuna, cucumber, peanuts and pickled melon). But I was also very, very jealous of my companion’s Grown Up Grilled Cheese featuring Benton’s bacon, roasted tomatoes, aged cheddar, pimento cheese, and caramelized onions.
Get Cultured
The Brooks Museum is well worth the $7 admission fee, though you can it enjoy for free (or by donation) on Wednesdays. Or, do it right and just buy a membership. The Brooks Outside program is also something you can enjoy without spending a penny. Remember the giant red ball? The inflatable bunnies? How about that awesome tape art? Stop by to see if they’ve got anything cooking. While you’re at it, pop into the College of Art to see the student art on display.
Refresh
Enjoy a beer on the Golf House patio. Café Brooks has local beer on tap, but my favorite place to have a beer in the park is at the Golf House. They have a great selection of canned beers (local and regional included), and they are only $2.50 each — no matter the flavor. Plus, the Golf House has an amazing patio. It’s the perfect place to sit and people watch. It’s also another option for dining al fresco, as long as you bring your own food.
Pro tip: the Golf House has the cleanest, nicest public restrooms in the park.
Ride a Bike
I definitely recommend not driving to the park — the less cars there, the better. If you don’t have a bike, don’t worry, the Golf House has a fleet of grown up trikes that are only $5 an hour to rent and just happen to be perfect for exploring the Old Forest roads (which are closed to traffic). This is an especially shady spot to escape the summer heat. Hop on and go get your photo taken at each one of the gates that have been installed by local artists Tyler French, Yvonne Bobo, and Ben Butler.
Hike the Trails
If you really want relief from the summer sun, hit the trails. The best thing about the Old Forest is that it’s usually several degrees cooler than the outside world. Download (or use your phone to look at) the Old Forest map on OPC’s website http://trails.overtonpark.org). A map is also posted over by the red playground on the East Parkway side, if you just want to snap a picture of it. Don’t worry if you get turned around, it’s pretty hard to get lost forever on the trails, even if you really want to.
Pro tip: OPC’s website also has field guides to plants and birds if that’s your thing.
Enjoy the Greensward
Don’t let the overflow Zoo parking deter you from taking up your fair share of this lovely open green space. (Do let it piss you off though!) Take a blanket and just enjoy the day, kick a soccer ball, throw a Frisbee, eat a pop from the MemPops truck — you get the idea. Stay as long as you like, and maybe even watch the sun set.
Spend the Night & Step Up
Okay, not the whole night, but chances are there’s something special going on in the evening. Check the Levitt Shell’s page for information on their free summer and fall concert series. (Shows are typically Thursday through Sunday.) On Wednesdays, you can sometimes find live music at the Golf House. The Brooks Museum also has excellent evening programming, typically on Wednesdays. The Overton Park Farmer’s Market takes place Thursdays from 3–7 pm under the East Parkway pavilion. The College of Art sometimes hosts art openings on Fridays and there are special markets throughout the year.
Being active involves more than just enjoying. Invite a friend (especially one who has never seen what Overton Park has to offer). Make a donation to CPOP. Become an OPC member. Volunteer.
See what I mean about fitting it all in? Once you’ve experienced all (or some!) of what the park has to offer, make plans to go back.
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
Six Bartenders You Need to Know
Six Bartenders You Need to Know
Published June 6, 2017 on the I Love Memphis Blog
Ed. Note: I Love Memphis has always tried to go beyond the usual suspects for food and drink options around town…to give you more than just the places that show up in a) every tourism article or b) every new hotspot. Stacey does just that in this post about her favorite bartenders around town.
I have a (bad) joke I tell about how my favorite bartender, Adam, will probably be the first to know when I’m dead. I’ve been sitting at his bar every Tuesday for the past decade. He knows what I like to drink, sure, but more importantly, he has my number, and he checks in if I don’t show up. It’s kind of nice.
So, get out there and find yourself a favorite bartender. I’ve got some suggestions (in no particular order).
1 & 2. Sam and Aniece at the Big “S” Lounge (1179 Dunnavant St)
Sam & Aneice at The Big S. Photo by Chip Chockley. Used with permission.
This little juke joint is just down the tracks from Stax. It’s unassuming from the outside, but the inside is full on red glow. Sam, now 92, purchased it in the sixties when he retired from MLGW (after 35 years, 3 months and 11 days).
You can find him dressed to the nines most nights at the end of the bar. His daughter, Aniece, can be found behind it. (If you’re sweet, you’ll probably get a hug from her on your way out.) She says, “As long as Daddy’s alive, he’s gonna be up here.” Therefore, she is too.
Five dollar forties are served with chilled glasses and set-ups come with an ice bucket and tongs. Open Friday to Sunday, plus Tuesday, DJ Quick is usually there spinning records. If not, the jukebox is full of killer sounds. My personal favorite is “I Wish it Would Rain” by the Temptations. It’s guaranteed to get everyone crooning and swaying, including Aniece.
3 & 4. Cliff and Joan at Coletta’s (1063 South Parkway)
Ciff’s signature margarita at Coletta’s.
The bar at Coletta’s is amazing. It actually constitutes what used to be the entire restaurant way back in 1923. It’s small and cozy, and lively AF on the weekends. But don’t worry, even when it’s packed full, they’ll find a place for you to sit.
There’s usually a big game on the TV, and if you time it right, Mr. Coletta will send out big bags of popcorn. I like to sit at the bar, eat pizza, drink margaritas, and make eyes at Cliff. He has a small stature, a big heart, and takes no sh*t.
Cliff at Coletta’s
A retired adjunct Sociology professor at the University of Memphis and LeMoyne Owen, I regret never having taken one of his classes. He’s been manning the Coletta’s bar for twenty plus years, every night except Tuesdays and Thursdays.
When asked what the secret to his margaritas is, he replied, “Tequila – focus on that.” He’s most proud of his version of Sex on the Beach which features vodka, peach Schnapps, orange juice, cranberry juice and grenadine. But, according to Cliff, the most popular drink at his bar is the Long Island Iced Tea. “That’s what I’d drink if I was at the bar,” he says.
Joan at Coletta’s
When Cliff isn’t working, Joan takes the reigns. She’s a little slow to warm up, but she’s always looking out for her customers and she’ll tell it to you straight.
For instance, if it looks like you aren’t in a hurry, she’ll serve you a half pitcher of beer at a time so it doesn’t get all warm on ya. If you really want to get on her good side, ask her about her empowerment crystals.
5. Keith at Blues City Cafe (138 Beale Street)
Keith’s Tropical Ecstacy at Blues City Cafe
After avoiding Beale Street for the last decade under the guise of it being too touristy, I have learned the error of my ways. There are some really cool bars, and the quality of the live music on any given day is mind-blowing.
Blues City brings in its fair share of tourists, thanks to the food and tunes, but Keith is the guy bringing in the locals. He’s a trip. He can whistle louder than a freight train, he’ll call you babydoll and you’ll like it, and he plays a mean air guitar.
November will mark four years for him, and many may remember him from TJ Mulligan’s. Once I asked him about the Fried Chicken Chopped Salad, and he said, “The salads here have a lot of lettuce,” as though it was a bad thing and expertly steered me to the gumbo fries.
Keith at Blues City Cafe
When it comes to drinks, he’s typically slinging beers, but he can make whatever you want. His signature cocktail is called Tropical Ecstasy. “I made it up for women who don’t know what they like to drink,” he said. “It’s fruity and tropical tasting.”
The base is Absolute Mandarin and does indeed taste fruity and tropical. It’s also super strong, but best of all, you can even it get it to go like you’re in New Orleans.
6. Mark at Mortimer’s (590 N. Perkins)
Mark at Mortimer’s
Mortimer’s is known as the Berclair Country Club, and has quite a few regular “members.” The bar is a horseshoe, and narrow enough that you can talk to the people on the other side. Mark has been behind the bar since the nineties, and he’s about a nice as they come.
Exhibit A: He brings a big bag of Peanut M&Ms Monday through Friday and divvies them up in shot glasses for his customers.
Exhibit B: He takes pictures of the smiling faces he sees each night and puts them up on a humongous bulletin board lining the North wall of his bar.
Exhibit C is the kicker. One of his regulars, a retired Marine who is now 82, used to come in every day between 3-5pm. About nine years ago, it got too hard for him to walk home, so Mark started picking him up on his way in, and someone else gives him a ride home.
A few years later, the retired Marine got sick and quit drinking, but Mark still brings him up to the bar to see his friends. (Mark also takes him grocery shopping twice a week, and even to doctor’s appointments.)
What are your favorite bars and bartenders around town, and why? Let us know in the comments.
Published June 6, 2017 on the I Love Memphis Blog
Ed. Note: I Love Memphis has always tried to go beyond the usual suspects for food and drink options around town…to give you more than just the places that show up in a) every tourism article or b) every new hotspot. Stacey does just that in this post about her favorite bartenders around town.
I have a (bad) joke I tell about how my favorite bartender, Adam, will probably be the first to know when I’m dead. I’ve been sitting at his bar every Tuesday for the past decade. He knows what I like to drink, sure, but more importantly, he has my number, and he checks in if I don’t show up. It’s kind of nice.
So, get out there and find yourself a favorite bartender. I’ve got some suggestions (in no particular order).
1 & 2. Sam and Aniece at the Big “S” Lounge (1179 Dunnavant St)
Sam & Aneice at The Big S. Photo by Chip Chockley. Used with permission.
This little juke joint is just down the tracks from Stax. It’s unassuming from the outside, but the inside is full on red glow. Sam, now 92, purchased it in the sixties when he retired from MLGW (after 35 years, 3 months and 11 days).
You can find him dressed to the nines most nights at the end of the bar. His daughter, Aniece, can be found behind it. (If you’re sweet, you’ll probably get a hug from her on your way out.) She says, “As long as Daddy’s alive, he’s gonna be up here.” Therefore, she is too.
Five dollar forties are served with chilled glasses and set-ups come with an ice bucket and tongs. Open Friday to Sunday, plus Tuesday, DJ Quick is usually there spinning records. If not, the jukebox is full of killer sounds. My personal favorite is “I Wish it Would Rain” by the Temptations. It’s guaranteed to get everyone crooning and swaying, including Aniece.
3 & 4. Cliff and Joan at Coletta’s (1063 South Parkway)
Ciff’s signature margarita at Coletta’s.
The bar at Coletta’s is amazing. It actually constitutes what used to be the entire restaurant way back in 1923. It’s small and cozy, and lively AF on the weekends. But don’t worry, even when it’s packed full, they’ll find a place for you to sit.
There’s usually a big game on the TV, and if you time it right, Mr. Coletta will send out big bags of popcorn. I like to sit at the bar, eat pizza, drink margaritas, and make eyes at Cliff. He has a small stature, a big heart, and takes no sh*t.
Cliff at Coletta’s
A retired adjunct Sociology professor at the University of Memphis and LeMoyne Owen, I regret never having taken one of his classes. He’s been manning the Coletta’s bar for twenty plus years, every night except Tuesdays and Thursdays.
When asked what the secret to his margaritas is, he replied, “Tequila – focus on that.” He’s most proud of his version of Sex on the Beach which features vodka, peach Schnapps, orange juice, cranberry juice and grenadine. But, according to Cliff, the most popular drink at his bar is the Long Island Iced Tea. “That’s what I’d drink if I was at the bar,” he says.
Joan at Coletta’s
When Cliff isn’t working, Joan takes the reigns. She’s a little slow to warm up, but she’s always looking out for her customers and she’ll tell it to you straight.
For instance, if it looks like you aren’t in a hurry, she’ll serve you a half pitcher of beer at a time so it doesn’t get all warm on ya. If you really want to get on her good side, ask her about her empowerment crystals.
5. Keith at Blues City Cafe (138 Beale Street)
Keith’s Tropical Ecstacy at Blues City Cafe
After avoiding Beale Street for the last decade under the guise of it being too touristy, I have learned the error of my ways. There are some really cool bars, and the quality of the live music on any given day is mind-blowing.
Blues City brings in its fair share of tourists, thanks to the food and tunes, but Keith is the guy bringing in the locals. He’s a trip. He can whistle louder than a freight train, he’ll call you babydoll and you’ll like it, and he plays a mean air guitar.
November will mark four years for him, and many may remember him from TJ Mulligan’s. Once I asked him about the Fried Chicken Chopped Salad, and he said, “The salads here have a lot of lettuce,” as though it was a bad thing and expertly steered me to the gumbo fries.
Keith at Blues City Cafe
When it comes to drinks, he’s typically slinging beers, but he can make whatever you want. His signature cocktail is called Tropical Ecstasy. “I made it up for women who don’t know what they like to drink,” he said. “It’s fruity and tropical tasting.”
The base is Absolute Mandarin and does indeed taste fruity and tropical. It’s also super strong, but best of all, you can even it get it to go like you’re in New Orleans.
6. Mark at Mortimer’s (590 N. Perkins)
Mark at Mortimer’s
Mortimer’s is known as the Berclair Country Club, and has quite a few regular “members.” The bar is a horseshoe, and narrow enough that you can talk to the people on the other side. Mark has been behind the bar since the nineties, and he’s about a nice as they come.
Exhibit A: He brings a big bag of Peanut M&Ms Monday through Friday and divvies them up in shot glasses for his customers.
Exhibit B: He takes pictures of the smiling faces he sees each night and puts them up on a humongous bulletin board lining the North wall of his bar.
Exhibit C is the kicker. One of his regulars, a retired Marine who is now 82, used to come in every day between 3-5pm. About nine years ago, it got too hard for him to walk home, so Mark started picking him up on his way in, and someone else gives him a ride home.
A few years later, the retired Marine got sick and quit drinking, but Mark still brings him up to the bar to see his friends. (Mark also takes him grocery shopping twice a week, and even to doctor’s appointments.)
What are your favorite bars and bartenders around town, and why? Let us know in the comments.
Monday, April 10, 2017
Full Circle Sunday
Published in the Spring 2017 issue of Edible Memphis
I love a good brunch, but I’ve discovered that Sunday in Memphis sometimes requires a cool adventure to go along with something great to eat.
First up, church — but not just any church — Al Green’s church. Founded in 1976, The Full Gospel Tabernacle is about a fifteen-minute drive from Midtown, just a bit further down the road from Graceland. The congregation is more than welcoming, as tourists and music loving locals are frequent visitors to the Sunday service. Bible study/Sunday School starts at 9:45 am in the chapel, and the morning worship begins at 11:30 am. Reverend Green usually arrives at noon.
Sometimes Rev. Green is in a colorful robe and sometimes he’s in a suit and sunglasses, but don’t expect him to bust out any of his top 40 hits — it’s not a concert. Don’t worry, he will most assuredly break into song with a seven-piece band (drums, piano, guitar, bass, keyboard, bongos, maracas) and colored-coordinated choir ready to join in and back him up.
There are no bibles (I’m guessing they’d get snagged under the guise of souvenirs), but each week there’s a lovely program with the day’s events. Last year, I visited the church for the Reverend’s birthday celebration as well as the 40-year anniversary of the church’s founding. Though it seems there is always something to celebrate, the Reverend takes his job very seriously. One week he told us that President Obama invited him to come to the White House to sing “Love & Happiness,” but he had to decline since the event fell on a Sunday.
Depending on his mood, the Reverend may preach from one to two hours. He typically has an inspiring message, with a few tales from his childhood. (As to the election, he said, “Let God lead the way.”) There’s some praying, a little dancing in the aisles, and a plenty of “amens.” It isn’t uncommon to see people leave before the service is over, but be sure to stay for the collection. Everyone tithes, and that should include you.
Once you nourish your soul, go ahead and nourish your belly. On the way, do a little drive-by to see where Al Green recorded many of his hits. Willie Mitchell’s Royal Studios is one of the oldest, continuously operating, recording studios in the world, and is home to the famed Hi Records. Across the street is Hattie’s Grocery where tamales are made fresh every day. Made from beef and wrapped in paper, the Delta-style tamales are meant to be eaten like popsicles (or yogurt tubes). Get a dozen to go — half mild and half hot — for later.
Stop at The Gay Hawk Restaurant for the lunch buffet (11 am–5 pm) — it features soul food favorites like fried chicken, greens, yams, and peach cobbler. Owned by Louis Bobo, his daughter, Terica, is the woman running the show both inside and outside the kitchen.
Now a sit down restaurant, The Gay Hawk used to have an awning out front. Cars would park and waitresses would come out. Charlie Pride met his wife here and Ike Turner was once a regular. Today the focus is on making good food and treating customers like family.
Terica says when she cooks, she “puts a big toe in it,” meaning she gives it her all and uses a lot of love. The food is authentic and made from scratch. “We don’t just open a can,” she says. Sometimes when the food is gone, she locks the door and lets the customers stay until she’s ready to go home. “The customers make me feel like I’m at the house. They sit all day,” she says with a smile.
Sit and visit awhile, then make time for a nap. Once it’s dark, it’s time to hit the Big S Lounge and start sinning and cutting up again.
This little juke joint is down the tracks from Stax. It’s small, dark, and sparkly thanks to the red twinkle lights. Sam Price, now 92, purchased it in the ’60s when he retired from the Post Office. You can find him most nights dressed to the nines, at the end of the bar. His daughter, Aniece, can be found behind the bar (chances are, she’ll give you a hug). Forties are served with chilled glasses and set-ups come with your very own ice bucket and tongs.
The Big S doesn’t serve food, but they don’t mind if you bring some in. (This is where the tamales come in.) Don’t worry about a thing, not even your car. Dave Brown (not the weatherman) will watch it for you. Bring cash and tip big. And as Mr. Brown told me, “When you watch the news and they talk about South Memphis, remember there’s good people here too.”
More often than not, DJ Quick is here on Sundays and he’s sure to get you onto the dance floor, most likely by way of Al Green’s music. (In his absence, play it on the jukebox.) When you are out there swaying to “Let’s Stay Together,” you’ll know you’ve come full circle.
If You Go:
Full Gospel Tabernacle
787 Hale Road
Royal Studios
1320 Willie Mitchell Boulevard (at Lauderdale)
Hatties Tamales
1293 Willie Mitchell Boulevard
3576 Kirby Parkway
www.hattiestamales.com
901-491-0574
The Gay Hawk Restaurant
685 S. Danny Thomas Boulevard
901-947-1464
Big S Grill
1179 Dunnavant Street
901-775-9127
I love a good brunch, but I’ve discovered that Sunday in Memphis sometimes requires a cool adventure to go along with something great to eat.
First up, church — but not just any church — Al Green’s church. Founded in 1976, The Full Gospel Tabernacle is about a fifteen-minute drive from Midtown, just a bit further down the road from Graceland. The congregation is more than welcoming, as tourists and music loving locals are frequent visitors to the Sunday service. Bible study/Sunday School starts at 9:45 am in the chapel, and the morning worship begins at 11:30 am. Reverend Green usually arrives at noon.
Sometimes Rev. Green is in a colorful robe and sometimes he’s in a suit and sunglasses, but don’t expect him to bust out any of his top 40 hits — it’s not a concert. Don’t worry, he will most assuredly break into song with a seven-piece band (drums, piano, guitar, bass, keyboard, bongos, maracas) and colored-coordinated choir ready to join in and back him up.
There are no bibles (I’m guessing they’d get snagged under the guise of souvenirs), but each week there’s a lovely program with the day’s events. Last year, I visited the church for the Reverend’s birthday celebration as well as the 40-year anniversary of the church’s founding. Though it seems there is always something to celebrate, the Reverend takes his job very seriously. One week he told us that President Obama invited him to come to the White House to sing “Love & Happiness,” but he had to decline since the event fell on a Sunday.
Depending on his mood, the Reverend may preach from one to two hours. He typically has an inspiring message, with a few tales from his childhood. (As to the election, he said, “Let God lead the way.”) There’s some praying, a little dancing in the aisles, and a plenty of “amens.” It isn’t uncommon to see people leave before the service is over, but be sure to stay for the collection. Everyone tithes, and that should include you.
Once you nourish your soul, go ahead and nourish your belly. On the way, do a little drive-by to see where Al Green recorded many of his hits. Willie Mitchell’s Royal Studios is one of the oldest, continuously operating, recording studios in the world, and is home to the famed Hi Records. Across the street is Hattie’s Grocery where tamales are made fresh every day. Made from beef and wrapped in paper, the Delta-style tamales are meant to be eaten like popsicles (or yogurt tubes). Get a dozen to go — half mild and half hot — for later.
Stop at The Gay Hawk Restaurant for the lunch buffet (11 am–5 pm) — it features soul food favorites like fried chicken, greens, yams, and peach cobbler. Owned by Louis Bobo, his daughter, Terica, is the woman running the show both inside and outside the kitchen.
Now a sit down restaurant, The Gay Hawk used to have an awning out front. Cars would park and waitresses would come out. Charlie Pride met his wife here and Ike Turner was once a regular. Today the focus is on making good food and treating customers like family.
Terica says when she cooks, she “puts a big toe in it,” meaning she gives it her all and uses a lot of love. The food is authentic and made from scratch. “We don’t just open a can,” she says. Sometimes when the food is gone, she locks the door and lets the customers stay until she’s ready to go home. “The customers make me feel like I’m at the house. They sit all day,” she says with a smile.
Sit and visit awhile, then make time for a nap. Once it’s dark, it’s time to hit the Big S Lounge and start sinning and cutting up again.
This little juke joint is down the tracks from Stax. It’s small, dark, and sparkly thanks to the red twinkle lights. Sam Price, now 92, purchased it in the ’60s when he retired from the Post Office. You can find him most nights dressed to the nines, at the end of the bar. His daughter, Aniece, can be found behind the bar (chances are, she’ll give you a hug). Forties are served with chilled glasses and set-ups come with your very own ice bucket and tongs.
The Big S doesn’t serve food, but they don’t mind if you bring some in. (This is where the tamales come in.) Don’t worry about a thing, not even your car. Dave Brown (not the weatherman) will watch it for you. Bring cash and tip big. And as Mr. Brown told me, “When you watch the news and they talk about South Memphis, remember there’s good people here too.”
More often than not, DJ Quick is here on Sundays and he’s sure to get you onto the dance floor, most likely by way of Al Green’s music. (In his absence, play it on the jukebox.) When you are out there swaying to “Let’s Stay Together,” you’ll know you’ve come full circle.
If You Go:
Full Gospel Tabernacle
787 Hale Road
Royal Studios
1320 Willie Mitchell Boulevard (at Lauderdale)
Hatties Tamales
1293 Willie Mitchell Boulevard
3576 Kirby Parkway
www.hattiestamales.com
901-491-0574
The Gay Hawk Restaurant
685 S. Danny Thomas Boulevard
901-947-1464
Big S Grill
1179 Dunnavant Street
901-775-9127
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Museums, exhibits help make learning fun over summer
Published June 5, 2011 in the Commercial Appeal
School's out for the summer, but that doesn't mean the learning needs to stop.
Take advantage of the many opportunities around town to learn about the environment and the animals that depend on it to survive.
Here are a few to get you started:
Memphis Botanic Garden
Memphis Botanic Garden is a beautiful place to smell the roses in the Rose Garden, feed the koi in Lake Biwa in the Japanese Garden of Tranquility and learn all about the beautiful things growing outdoors.
My Big Backyard, which is an absolute must-see, was designed just for kids to learn and have fun at the same time...(Read more).
Monday, March 1, 2010
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Playing trivia helps get useless information out of your head
Playing trivia helps get useless information out of your head
Published February 2, 2010 in the Commercial Appeal
Published February 2, 2010 in the Commercial Appeal
In the age of Google, the answer to almost any question is just a few clicks away. However, at a number of local bars and restaurants, people are regularly testing their knowledge without the aid of the Internet by participating in Live Team Trivia.
Patrick Glass, a Midtown musician, has been playing trivia regularly on Tuesday nights at the P&H Cafe since April of last year. "There's a lot of useless information in my head, even more than I realize! Playing trivia helps me get it out," he says.
The team trivia format is simple. There are a set number of rounds with one half-time question and one final question. Each round consists of questions in various categories that are announced at the beginning of the round ( history, entertainment, sports). Teams are allotted three point values to use each round (1, 3, 5). Once a team has assigned a value to an answer, it cannot be used again for that round...(Read more)
Thursday, October 22, 2009
PURE Dance bars drugs, opens way for all ages to enjoy techno-tunes
PURE Dance bars drugs, opens way for all ages to enjoy techno-tunes
Published October 22, 2009 in the Commercial Appeal
Published October 22, 2009 in the Commercial Appeal
"I danced so much that my feet may never be the same!" Nykkoa Morris, 13, exclaims after a night of dancing with her friend, her little sister and her mom at PURE Dance.
This "Pulsating Underground Rhythmic Entertainment" dance is a monthly, all-ages, drug-and-alcohol-free event at Optimum Studios, a media-service company on North Parkway and Danny Thomas Boulevard...(Read more).
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Hot Spots
Hot Spots
Published July 26, 2009 in the Commercial Appeal
Published July 26, 2009 in the Commercial Appeal
Already been to the free hours at the zoo? Visited Lichterman Nature Center, too? There's plenty more fun to be had in the Memphis area this summer, and all year long.
This list of family-friendly suggestions is for those of you who think you've been there, done that. They're mom-tested and kid-approved. You may even be surprised to find that something old can be something new if you just know where to look...(Read more)
Monday, June 1, 2009
Boredom Busters
Boredom Busters
Published June 2009 in Memphis Parent
Published June 2009 in Memphis Parent
On a budget? Aren’t we all. But don’t let that spoil your fun. There are plenty of inexpensive ways to enjoy all that Memphis has to offer. Read on for a week’s worth of ideas, then grab the kids and go!
Monday
The National Civil Rights Museum (450 Mulberry Street) offers free admission Mondays 3-5p.m. General admission is always free for kids under the age of 3. This is a must see for everyone, but may be more meaningful to children ages 5 and up.
Make your visit memorable by taking the bus. Fares costs $1.50 for adults, $1.20 for kids under 12. Visit MataTransit.com to plan your trip. (Keep in mind that taking the bus will add several extra minutes or hours to a trip normally done by car.) Many MATA buses are now equipped with bike racks, so bring your bike and take a spin downtown...(Read more)
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Pink Palace exhibition gives 'The Scoop on Poop'
Pink Palace exhibition gives 'The Scoop on Poop'
Published January 31, 2009 in Commercial Appeal
Published January 31, 2009 in Commercial Appeal
When Dr. Wayne Lynch was a boy, he worked on his uncle's dairy farm in the summers. When it rained, he had to clean the barn, which meant shoveling lots of cow patties. He wondered why cows produced so much excrement, and why they always seemed to poop the minute they got into the barn to be milked. Thus began a lifelong exploration into the science of what animals leave behind...(Read more)
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