Your Guide to the Pinch District, Memphis' First Neighborhood

The Pinch District, known as Memphis’ first neighborhood, began as a melting pot, its population made up primarily of Irish immigrants escaping the potato famine of Ireland in the mid-1800s. The area got its name because of the appearance of a “pinched gut” on the hungry residents who lived there. In addition to being the first Memphis neighborhood, it was also the city’s first commercial district. Today’s Pinch District is bustling — from the Pyramid being repurposed into a Bass Pro Shops megastore, to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s multi-year expansion and every .

Here’s where to go and what to do in the Pinch District.

The Pinch District is still continuing to grow.

Be sure to grab a photo in front of this vibrant mural in the Pinch District. Image: Downtown Memphis

WHERE TO EAT

Alcenia’s

317 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38103 • (901) 523-0200

Chicken and waffles … need we say more? Open for breakfast, lunch and Saturday brunch, Alcenia’s serves up some solid soul food. From chicken and catfish to veggies, beans and homemade desserts, Alcenia’s will make your belly happy.

Ferraro’s Pizzeria and Pub

111 Jackson Ave, Memphis, TN 38103 • (901) 522-2033

Offering homemade pizza with fresh ingredients, Ferraro’s Pizzeria and Pub feels authentically Italian. Not in the mood for pizza? Give their stromboli a try — it’s made fresh every morning.

The Lookout at Bass Pro Outdoor World

1 Bass Pro Dr, Memphis, TN 38105 • (901) 291-8040

Have a one-of-a-kind dinner at The Lookout at Bass Pro Outdoor World. Kick-off your experience here, by riding a free-standing elevator 28 stories to the top of the pyramid. Once at The Lookout, you can enjoy an array of food and unique beverages while soaking in the 360-degree view.

Westy’s

346 N. Main St, Memphis, TN 38103 • (901) 543-8646

With a menu that ranges from gumbo to steak, Westy’s has something tasty for whatever you’re craving. They also have “blue plate specials,” offering a taste of country fare. Their best seller? Catfish nuggets.

Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill

1 Bass Pro Dr, Memphis, TN 38105 • (901) 291-8000

Located inside Cypress Lodge, aka the Bass Pro Shop Pyramid, this is undoubtedly a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill will have you feeling like you’re swimming in the deep, blue sea. Not only is the food delicious, but their cocktails will blow you out of the water!

Enjoy a seat on the picnic tables at Westy’s. Image: Westy’s

ACCOMMODATIONS & EVENT SPACES

Big Cypress Lodge

1 Bass Pro Dr, Memphis, TN 38105 • (901) 620-4600

There’s nothing quite like staying inside of a pyramid — especially one that has tons of activities, a Bass Pro Shop, a hotel, a spa and two restaurants. The Big Cypress Lodge is the only one of its kind in Memphis. It combines the great outdoors with an elegant twist that features fireplaces, screened-in porches and handcrafted furniture. If you’re hosting a private gathering, stay in the Governor’s Suite, which has a full kitchen, wrap-around balcony and breathtaking view. Worth noting, Big Cypress Lodge also has meeting spaces.

When you step inside, you’ll completely forget you’re inside a pyramid! Image: Big Cypress Lodge

This view of this Mississippi River is so beautiful!

This is a view we never get tired of. Image: Big Cypress Lodge

Balinese Ballroom

330 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38103 • (901) 522-1144

Constructed in 1876, Balinese Ballroom is filled with character and can adapt to any type of celebration. Whether your event’s aesthetic is chic, rustic or modern, this is the Pinch District’s go-to. Host a wedding, reunion, work function, anniversary or birthday party — they offer three different spaces that can fit any size or party style.

Perfect for parties, weddings, reunions, you name it!

Host your next gathering at Balinese Ballroom. Image: Balinese Ballroom

WHERE TO DRINK

Comeback Coffee

358 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38103 • (901) 610-0906

Comeback Coffee first started as a way to give back to Memphis. Their motto, “Stay a while,” truly means you should stay awhile. Grab a cup, perhaps a pastry and enjoy your time there.

Pyramid Wine & Spirits

120 A.W. Willis Ave, Memphis, TN 38105 • (901) 578-2773

In business for over a decade, the Pyramid Wine & Spirits‘ vision is to bring you the best wines and spirits at an affordable cost. They also offer a Growling Station, where you can taste and try some of Memphis’s craft and local beers. Whether you’re into wine, liquor or beer, they’ve got it all!

Your cup of morning Joe will never be the same!

Stay awhile at Comeback Coffee. Image: Comeback Coffee

WHERE TO PAMPER YOURSELF

Big Cypress Spa

1 Bass Pro Dr, Memphis, TN 38105 • (901) 620-4600

Enjoy a spa day without having to leave the room at Big Cypress Spa. They offer services like manicures, pedicures, body treatments and facials while selling retail skincare products to take home with you.

Epiphany Salon and Gallery

726 North Pkwy, Memphis, TN 38105 • (901) 406-3026

Epiphany Salon and Gallery has one goal: to make you look and feel your best. Upon arrival, you’ll feel comfortable and pampered, and you’ll leave with shiny, healthy, silky-smooth locks.

Ah, a day full of relaxing is definitely on the agenda.

Treat yourself to a bit of self-care at Big Cypress Spa. Image: Big Cypress Lodge

SUPPORT

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

62 Danny Thomas Pl, Memphis, TN 38105 • (901) 595-3300

There’s a special place in the heart of each Memphian when it comes to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Host to one of the biggest marathon weekends, as well as other various fundraisers throughout the year, we are grateful this institute is right here in our backyard. Founded by Danny Thomas, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is a hospital unlike any other. They’re dedicated to curing childhood cancer and refuse to turn any child away. While you’re taking a tour or seeing the campus, stop by the St. Jude Gift Shop!