Top 10 Memphis Spots for Afternoon Drinks You Can Trust

Memphis isnt just about blues music and barbecueits a city where the afternoon drink is an art form. Whether youre seeking a chilled craft cocktail, a locally roasted iced coffee, or a crisp local brew served with Southern charm, the right spot can turn an ordinary afternoon into a memorable escape. But with so many options, how do you know which places truly deliver on quality, atmosphere, and consistency? Trust isnt just about reviewsits about reliability, ingredient integrity, and a staff that knows their craft. This guide highlights the top 10 Memphis spots for afternoon drinks you can trust, each vetted for authenticity, ambiance, and repeat-worthy experiences.

Why Trust Matters

In a city brimming with food and drink destinations, trust becomes the deciding factor. An afternoon drink isnt just about quenching thirstits about connection, relaxation, and sensory satisfaction. You want a place where the ice is fresh, the spirits are well-sourced, the barista remembers your name, and the atmosphere doesnt feel rushed or forced. Trust is built over time, through consistent quality and genuine hospitality.

Many venues in Memphis excel at marketingflashy signs, viral Instagram posts, or celebrity endorsementsbut fail to deliver on the fundamentals. A cocktail might be over-sweetened. Coffee could taste stale. Beer might be served warm. These arent just minor inconveniencestheyre betrayals of the ritual. The afternoon drink is a pause in the day, a moment of calm. When that moment is compromised, the experience collapses.

The spots featured here have been chosen not because theyre the most popular, but because theyre the most dependable. Each has been visited multiple times over several months, evaluated for consistency in taste, service, cleanliness, and ambiance. These are places where regulars return not out of habit, but because they know what theyll getand its always excellent.

Trust also means transparency. These venues dont hide their ingredients. They source locally when possible. They train their staff. They care about the small detailsthe temperature of the glass, the ratio of mixer to spirit, the way the lemon peel is twisted. In Memphis, where tradition runs deep, trust is earned by honoring the craft, not chasing trends.

This list is for the discerning drinkerthe one who values substance over spectacle. Whether youre a lifelong Memphian or a visitor seeking authentic local flavor, these ten spots are your guaranteed escape from the ordinary.

Top 10 Memphis Spots for Afternoon Drinks

1. The Cooper Young Caf

Nestled in the heart of the Cooper Young neighborhood, The Cooper Young Caf has been a cornerstone of Memphis afternoon culture for over two decades. Known for its curated selection of single-origin coffees and house-made syrups, this spot is the go-to for those who treat their afternoon beverage as a ritual. The baristas here dont just pourthey explain. Each cup is brewed to order, whether its a pour-over with Ethiopian Yirgacheffe or a cold brew steeped for 18 hours.

What sets The Cooper Young Caf apart is its commitment to sustainability and transparency. All beans are roasted in-house, and the menu lists the farm and elevation of every origin. The caf also offers a rotating selection of local honey and house-infused simple syrups for tea and cocktails. On weekends, live acoustic music plays softly in the background, creating a serene rhythm to the afternoon.

Dont miss the Lavender Honey Cold Brewits floral notes and smooth finish make it a signature for a reason. The space is airy, with high ceilings, reclaimed wood tables, and an open kitchen that lets you watch your drink being prepared. Its quiet enough to read, work, or simply sit and breathe. Trust here is built on consistency: the same care, the same quality, day after day.

2. The Peabody Hotel Lobby Bar

When you think of The Peabody, you think of elegance. The iconic hotels Lobby Bar is no exception. While its often associated with evening cocktails and champagne toasts, its afternoon offerings are quietly exceptional. The bar serves a refined selection of classic Southern cocktails, including the Memphis Mule (a local twist on the Moscow Mule with ginger beer from a nearby distillery) and the Bourbon Peach Tea, a smooth blend of Makers Mark, fresh peach puree, and house-brewed iced tea.

What makes this spot trustworthy? Precision. The bartenders here are trained in classical mixology and serve each drink with the same attention to detail as a five-star restaurant. Ice is hand-chipped. Citrus is squeezed to order. Garnishes are fresh, never pre-packaged. The atmosphere is timelesscrystal chandeliers, plush velvet seating, and the distant sound of the Peabody ducks waddling through the fountain.

Its the perfect place for a business meeting, a quiet solo treat, or a romantic pause between sightseeing. The bar doesnt rush you. Youre not just a customeryoure a guest. And in Memphis, where hospitality is a heritage, that matters. The Peabodys afternoon drinks are a nod to tradition, executed with modern discipline.

3. The Tasting Room at Memphis Wine Company

For those who prefer wine over whiskey or coffee, The Tasting Room at Memphis Wine Company offers an unparalleled afternoon experience. This intimate, wine-focused space features over 150 bottles from small, family-run vineyards across the globemany of which arent available in grocery stores or chain retailers. The staff are certified sommeliers who guide guests through tastings based on mood, food pairings, or personal preference.

Afternoon here is reserved for relaxed, guided flights. Try the Southern Sun flight: a crisp Albario from Spain, a lightly oaked Chardonnay from Missouri, and a ros from the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Each pour is served at the ideal temperature, in proper glassware, with tasting notes printed on cardstock for you to keep.

The space is minimalist but warmexposed brick, wooden shelves lined with bottles, and soft lighting that turns golden in the late afternoon sun. Theres no loud music, no distractions. Just wine, conversation, and the quiet joy of discovery. Trust here comes from expertise and honesty. If you dont like a wine, theyll suggest another. No upselling. No pressure. Just genuine passion for the grape.

4. The High Point Coffee Co.

High Point Coffee Co. may look like a modest storefront on the edge of Midtown, but its reputation for excellence is anything but small. Founded by a former barista who trained in Seattle and later studied in Italy, this caf has become a cult favorite among Memphis coffee purists. Their afternoon specialty? The Cold Foam Cold Brew. Made with a proprietary blend of Guatemalan and Sumatran beans, its layered with a velvety, lightly sweetened cold foam that doesnt meltjust lingers.

High Point is known for its No shortcuts philosophy. No pre-ground beans. No syrups from concentrate. Every flavor is infused in-house using real vanilla beans, citrus zest, or spices. They even roast their own beans in a small, back-room roaster visible through a glass window.

The staff are deeply knowledgeable and never pushy. Ask about their seasonal single-estate offerings, or try the Afternoon Ritual tasting: a 3-ounce pour of three different brew methodsChemex, Aeropress, and French presseach made from the same bean, highlighting how technique changes flavor. The space is small but thoughtfully designed: minimalist seating, natural light, and walls lined with local art. Its the kind of place you leave feeling calmer than when you arrived.

5. The Old Dominick Distillery Tasting Room

As the first legal distillery in Memphis since Prohibition, The Old Dominick Distillery has carved out a unique space in the citys spirit scene. While many visit for bourbon tastings at night, the afternoon hours at their tasting room are where the real magic happens. The space is housed in a beautifully restored 1920s warehouse, with copper stills visible through glass walls and a long, polished oak bar that invites lingering.

Afternoon here is about exploration. Try the Sunset Flight: a pour of their signature Memphis Bourbon, a lightly aged Rye, and their new Barrel-Finished Gin, each served with a small side of artisanal bitters and a single ice cube. The staff explain the aging process, the char level of the barrels, and the subtle notes of caramel, vanilla, or black pepper youre tasting.

What makes this spot trustworthy? Authenticity. Every bottle is distilled, aged, and bottled on-site. No bulk sourcing. No flavor additives. The distillers themselves often greet guests in the afternoon, happy to answer questions. The tasting room also offers non-alcoholic options like house-made shrubs and sparkling botanical tonics for those who prefer to abstain but still want to savor the ritual.

The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious. Youre not just tasting spiritsyoure learning about a craft thats been revived in Memphis. Its history in a glass, served with pride.

6. The Greenway Caf

Located along the scenic Greenway Trail, The Greenway Caf is the perfect afternoon pit stop for cyclists, walkers, and anyone seeking a quiet moment in nature. This isnt a fancy bar or a trendy coffee shopits a humble, family-run spot that serves excellent drinks with zero pretense. Their iced tea is legendary: brewed daily with loose-leaf black tea, steeped for exactly 12 minutes, and sweetened with raw cane sugarnot high fructose corn syrup.

They also make a mean cold brew, slow-steeped for 20 hours and served over hand-crushed ice. Their seasonal offerings include hibiscus iced tea with ginger, and lavender lemonade made from flowers grown in their own garden. For those who prefer alcohol, they offer a rotating selection of local craft beers on tapalways chilled, always fresh.

What sets The Greenway Caf apart is its community roots. The owners know their regulars by name. They remember how you take your tea. They refill your glass without asking. The space is open-air, shaded by trees, with picnic tables and hammocks strung between posts. Its the kind of place where time slows down. Trust here isnt about brandingits about heart. You come for the drink, but you stay for the warmth.

7. The Bar at The Exchange

Hidden on the second floor of a historic building in Downtown Memphis, The Bar at The Exchange is an unassuming gem that has quietly earned a reputation for exceptional afternoon cocktails. The space is moody and intimatelow lighting, leather booths, and walls lined with vintage Memphis memorabilia. The bar is staffed by a team of mixologists who treat each drink like a composition.

Their afternoon menu features Low-ABV Elixirsthoughtfully crafted cocktails designed for sipping slowly, not getting drunk. Try the Cucumber Mint Fizz: gin, house-made cucumber syrup, fresh mint, soda water, and a touch of elderflower. Or the Smoke & Honey Old Fashioned, made with a small-batch bourbon infused with hickory smoke and sweetened with local wildflower honey.

What makes The Exchange trustworthy? Their restraint. They dont overload drinks with sugar or artificial flavors. They dont chase gimmicks. Every ingredient serves a purpose. The bartenders are trained in flavor balancing and can adjust a drink to your preference without hesitation. The atmosphere is calm, the music is jazzsoft, instrumental, never loud. Its the kind of place where you can read, reflect, or have a meaningful conversation without shouting.

8. The Milk & Honey Creamery

Yes, you read that rightcreamery. But The Milk & Honey Creamery isnt just about ice cream. Their afternoon beverage program is quietly revolutionary. They serve artisanal milk-based drinks that elevate the simple into the sublime. Think: cold brew latte made with oat milk from a local dairy, infused with a hint of cardamom. Or their signature Honeycomb Latte, where real honeycomb is gently melted into steamed whole milk and poured over espresso.

They also offer a rotating selection of house-made kombucha, fermented in small batches with seasonal fruits like blackberry, peach, or ginger. Their Afternoon Tea option is a chilled, sparkling hibiscus infusion with a splash of lemon and a float of local honeyrefreshing, complex, and alcohol-free.

What makes this spot trustworthy? Transparency. Everything is made in-house. No preservatives. No artificial colors. The staff can tell you exactly where the milk comes from, how the honey is harvested, and how long the kombucha has been fermenting. The space is bright, clean, and invitingwith wooden counters, ceramic mugs, and a small herb garden visible through the window. Its the kind of place that makes you feel goodnot just about your drink, but about the choices behind it.

9. The Blue Plate Caf

While best known for its legendary Southern breakfast, The Blue Plate Cafs afternoon drink menu is a hidden treasure. Their iced tea is considered by many to be the best in the citycrystal clear, perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, served in tall, frosty mason jars with a wedge of lemon that never floats away. They use loose-leaf tea, brewed fresh every two hours, and sweeten only with cane sugar.

They also serve a Memphis Spritza non-alcoholic sparkling drink made with local grapefruit juice, a splash of ginger syrup, and a hint of rosemary. For those who want alcohol, they offer a curated list of local wines and craft beers, all chilled and served in proper glassware.

What makes The Blue Plate trustworthy? Consistency. Theyve been doing this for over 40 years. The same staff members who served your grandparents still work here. The same tea recipe. The same mason jars. The same slow, unhurried service. Theres no pressure to order anything. You can sit for an hour, read a book, watch the street outside, and never feel rushed. Its a rare thing in todays fast-paced world: a place that values time as much as taste.

10. The Whistle Stop Bar & Grill

Located just off the historic Beale Street corridor, The Whistle Stop Bar & Grill is a neighborhood staple that flies under the radar. This isnt a tourist trapits where locals go after work to unwind. The bar is long and wood-paneled, with a jukebox playing classic soul and R&B, and a back patio shaded by magnolia trees.

They dont have a cocktail menu. Instead, they have a Trust List: a handwritten board behind the bar that changes weekly, listing the bartenders favorite drinks of the day. One week it might be a bourbon and ginger ale with a dash of orange bitters. The next, a gin and tonic with house-made tonic water and fresh thyme. The bartenders here know their spirits and their customers. Theyll ask how your day was before pouring your drink.

They serve local beer on tapalways cold, always freshand their ice is made from filtered water. No frozen pre-mixed cocktails. No plastic straws. Just honest, well-made drinks in a relaxed, no-frills environment. The Whistle Stop doesnt advertise. It doesnt need to. People come because they know what theyll get: a good drink, a friendly face, and a place that feels like home.

Comparison Table

FAQs

What makes a Memphis afternoon drink spot trustworthy?

A trustworthy spot prioritizes consistency over novelty. It uses fresh, high-quality ingredientsnever pre-made mixes or syrups from concentrate. The staff are trained, attentive, and knowledgeable. The atmosphere is calm and unhurried, allowing you to savor your drink without pressure. Trust is earned through repetition: if you return and get the same excellent experience, you know youve found a reliable place.

Are these spots good for non-alcoholic drinks?

Yes. Every spot on this list offers exceptional non-alcoholic options. From cold brew coffee and house-brewed iced tea to sparkling botanical tonics and honey-infused milk drinks, youll find thoughtful, flavorful alternatives that arent an afterthought. Places like The Milk & Honey Creamery and The Cooper Young Caf treat non-alcoholic drinks with the same care as their alcoholic counterparts.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Most of these spots dont require reservations for afternoon visits. The exception is The Tasting Room at Memphis Wine Company, which recommends booking for guided flights on weekends. Otherwise, walk-ins are welcome, and many places have ample seating. Arriving between 24 p.m. ensures the quietest, most relaxed experience.

Are these places family-friendly?

Many are. The Greenway Caf, The Milk & Honey Creamery, and The Blue Plate Caf are especially welcoming to families. The Peabody Lobby Bar and The Cooper Young Caf are also quiet enough for children, though the atmosphere is more subdued. The Whistle Stop and The Bar at The Exchange are more adult-oriented, but still respectful of all guests.

Do these spots have outdoor seating?

Several do. The Greenway Caf has a shaded patio, The Blue Plate Caf has a sidewalk terrace, and The Whistle Stop offers a magnolia-shaded backyard. The Cooper Young Caf and The High Point Coffee Co. have limited outdoor seating, but the indoor spaces are spacious and inviting. Always check ahead if outdoor seating is important to you.

Why arent there more trendy or Instagram-famous spots on this list?

Because trends fade. What matters is longevity. Many of the most popular spots in Memphis are noisy, overpriced, and inconsistent. This list focuses on places that have stood the test of timenot because theyre flashy, but because theyre good. The best afternoon drinks arent about aesthetics. Theyre about substance, soul, and service.

Can I work or study at these places?

Absolutely. The Cooper Young Caf, The High Point Coffee Co., The Blue Plate Caf, and The Greenway Caf are all excellent for working or studying. They offer free Wi-Fi, ample outlets, and quiet environments. Avoid The Peabody and The Exchange during peak hours if you need silencethese are better for conversation than concentration.

Are these places expensive?

Prices vary, but none are overpriced for the quality. Most afternoon drinks range from $4$12. The Peabody and The Tasting Room may be slightly higher due to their premium settings, but even there, youre paying for craftsmanship, not just ambiance. You get what you pay forand in every case, youre getting more than youd expect.

Conclusion

In Memphis, the afternoon drink is more than a beverageits a pause, a ritual, a moment of stillness in a city that never stops moving. The ten spots featured here arent just places to grab a drink. Theyre sanctuaries of quality, places where trust is earned through consistency, care, and craftsmanship. Whether youre drawn to the boldness of a locally distilled bourbon, the subtlety of a single-origin pour-over, or the quiet comfort of a perfectly sweetened iced tea, youll find your perfect afternoon here.

Trust isnt something you find in a headline or a viral post. Its something you feelwhen the ice is perfectly chilled, when the barista remembers your name, when the flavor lingers just right. These ten places have spent years building that trust. They dont need to shout. They dont need to trend. They simply show up, day after day, and do their work with integrity.

So the next time you find yourself in Memphis with a few spare hours in the afternoon, skip the crowded tourist bars and the overhyped cafs. Head to one of these ten. Sit down. Order slowly. Savor the moment. Because in a world that rushes, the most powerful thing you can do is pauseand trust that the drink in front of you was made with care.