Top Rated Nightlife in Memphis

Rum Boogie Cafe's Blues Hall features live music every night of the week. The venue itself isn't the most glamorous, but the talent is undeniable. The resident performers, Dr. Feelgood Potts and his band play Friday through Monday. It's located next to the Rum Boogie Cafe, which is known for its delicious Cajun and barbecue dishes. Make a night of it and visit this venue for some great blues.

B.B. King's Blues Club as the name would suggest is owned by legendary blues musician B.B. King and features some of the best blues music in Memphis. From the regular appearances of Ruby Wilson - who can belt out a tune and entertain a crowd as well as anyone - to the special concerts by groups such as Booker T, this club consistently delights visitors and locals alike. There is a menu of ribs, barbecue and other entrees, as well as snack items, but most people come here for the music, not the food. The dance floor rocks every night of the week. Reservations are required for special concerts.

Hi-Tone has a cool bar which serves a decent variety of drinks, especially some cheap beer. It's definitely the local favorite for live music, with lesser known bands as well as big names like Elvis Costello and Duncan Sheik having performed here. Check the website for performance schedules and specials on wings and drinks.

This bar has wrap-around windows that let you see the dancers bopping and jiving from the outside, or watch the street scene on Beale from the inside. Autographed guitars hang from the ceiling, offering proof that musicians such as Carl Perkins, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Joe Walsh and others have hung out here. The house act, James Govan and the Boogie Blues Band, performs at Rum Boogie Café when there isn't a visiting artist. The kitchen serves several dinner and snack items, but the Rum Boogie is famous for its red beans and rice.

Take a cue from the sign outside and enjoy a Guinness at Celtic Crossing. A traditional menu of pub food like Irish beef stew, fish and chips, and shepherd's pie is made even better by weekly specials. Traditional Irish music played by local musicians can be heard several times per month, and trivia night is always popular. When they don't have live music, you might catch great local DJs providing the musical entertainment for the evening. Check the website for information on music and events.

Take a trip back in time at Blind Bear, a speakeasy-style bar in downtown Memphis. Classic cocktails like the Moscow Mule, Manhattan, and Cosmopolitan are featured in the drinks menu. However, the bar snacks have as much draw as the drinks. Try the chicken sandwich, turkey burger, or white cheddar mac and cheese. There's an outdoor patio that's great for people watching, while the interior is decorated in dark hues and dimly lit. The bartenders add to the festive atmosphere by dressing in costumes from the roaring '20s.