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.
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
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
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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 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.
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!
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.
Treat yourself to a bit of self-care at Big Cypress Spa. Image: Big Cypress Lodge
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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!
The campus of St. Jude is truly special. Image: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Get out and explore this historic neighborhood that means so much to Memphis!
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