Lamplighter Lounge

"If there was anywhere in Memphis where someone like the Velvet Underground would get their start as the house band, it'd be The Lamplighter. There are dive bars and then there are dive bars where bohemian culture is crafted artisanally at any given moment on any given day or night - where it's difficult to parse the creative spirit all around you from the atmosphere you're breathing in, from the table in front of you. The Lamplighter isn't just where arts happen, nor just where the bodies & brains of a creative underclass come to find community and grub and craft brew; the Lamplighter itself is Art and all the messy raw material needed to spawn generations of Memphis flavored bohemianism. When I moved to Memphis in the 90s, today's Lamplighter is what I needed. Who knew I was born 20 yrs too early."

"A true hidden gem. This is one of the oldest bars in Memphis. There's a pool table, eclectic DIY atmosphere, music venue in an adjacent space, local beer and usually even cider on tap. The food is honestly better than dive bar food has any right to be. The menu isn't huge, but it's decent-sized and quite varied. The burgers and fries are above average (they use coconut oil for frying), and I quite like their sandwiches (The Chess Club is my personal favorite). They also cater to a late night vegan crowd, so you have options like cauliflower wings, vegan Mac and cheese, hummus, and other vegan options. Regular music, incredible drag shows, biweekly local markets...this place is honestly a treasure."

"I have been to the Lamp quite a few times now and I love it! I'm from Jonesboro so anytime I go to Memphis I always make sure to make a stop at the Lamplighter. Not only are their fries phenomenal, but it's also very reliably vegetarian friendly. Also their vegan cookies with hot cocoa is the best dessert you can get! The place is also such a vibe. I love the decorations and also there is always live music!!"

"They have many vegan options for food and plenty of beer. If you want liquor you'll have to bring your own for a small set up fee. Lots of entertainment pretty much daily. Drag on Mondays, songwriters Tuesdays, comedy Wednesdays, karaoke Thursdays, and bands local and touring play all the other nights. Everything is affordable and many shows are free or donation based. I think the most you'll pay for a show there is $15 if it's a big touring band or burlesque show maybe. Oh and there's a cute patio out back! Very lgbtq+BIPOC friendly environment! It's my favorite hangout spot."