Memphis
Memphis
Lauren Kirk
Memphis quickly became “home” when I moved to the Grind City for a year in 2016-2017, and then quasi-lived there as a commuter for two years. There was a tangible buzz to the city that I felt in my bones and still feel the moment I cross The Loop to visit. In many ways, I felt my personal growth and healing paralled the city’s resurgence over the last couple of years.
Memphis is a city that doesn’t hide its scars. It truly embodies the slogan of its beloved Grizzlies: Grit and Grind. Memphis is full of creatives and risk-takers. A perfect blend of southern hospitality and big city anonymity.
Here’s a few of my favorite places to frequent for a day or weekend trip, ranging from upscale meals to hole-in-the-wall soul food. Memphis is indeed on the rise.
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Comeback Coffee
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Vice & Virtue Coffee
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Bishop
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ARRIVE Memphis
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The Central Station Memphis, Curio Collection by Hilton
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Eight and Sand
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Hu Hotel
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Hu. Roof
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The Gray Canary
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Old Dominick Distillery
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WISEACRE Brewing Company HQ
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WISEACRE Brewing Company OG
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Slider Inn - Midtown
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Slider Inn - Downtown
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Catherine & Mary's
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The Beauty Shop
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Burke's Book Store
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Goner Records
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novel.
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Casablanca Restaurant
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Casablanca Restaurant
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Central BBQ - Midtown
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Loflin Yard
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Railgarten
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Muddy's Bake Shop: the Kitchen
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Shelby Farms Park
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Big River Crossing
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Crosstown Brewing Company
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Crosstown Concourse
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Aldo's Pizza Pies - Midtown
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BABALU® - Overton Square
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Overton Park
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National Civil Rights Museum
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Chef Tam's Underground Cafe
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Memphis Made Brewing Co.
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Ghost River Brewery & Taproom
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Staks Pancake Kitchen
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Stock & Belle
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I AM A MAN Plaza
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The Four Way Soul Food Restaurant
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Bar DKDC
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SOB Downtown
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Memphis Botanic Garden
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Art Bar at Crosstown Arts
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Memphis Rox
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Memphis Zoo
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Levitt Shell
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Stax Museum of American Soul Music
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* * *
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Lauren Kirk
Owner: Turntable Coffee Counter
Place-Maker: City of Jackson, TN
Airbnb Host: Highland Park Studio
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