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Barbecue restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee
What should I order at Blues City Cafe?
What to order
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Ribs
Most frequently praised item in the reviews; repeatedly described as fall-off-the-bone tender, very flavorful, and one of the best BBQ dishes people have had.
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Catfish
Mentioned several times as a standout Southern dish, with reviewers calling it perfect, soft, delicious, and a great dinner choice.
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Tamales
Frequently recommended as a must-try item, especially with chili, and praised as a memorable Beale Street specialty even by reviewers noting they are not traditional tamales.
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4
Shrimp Skillet
Specifically mentioned as a very good dish, served fresh and hot, with the garlic butter version highlighted in the review.
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5
Chili Cheese Fries
Called huge and satisfying, with one reviewer saying they could have stopped after eating them because they were so filling.
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6
Seafood Gumbo
Praised as part of a great comfort-food meal, with reviewers highlighting its rich flavor and satisfying Southern style.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 1 AM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 1 AM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 1 AM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 1 AM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 3 AM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 3 AM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 1 AM |
About Blues City Cafe
This old-school juke joint/eatery specializes in the blues music & soul food of the Delta region.
Amenities
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Frequently asked
What is Blues City Cafe known for?
Blues City Cafe is best known for its ribs, especially the fall-off-the-bone, tender, flavorful full rack that multiple reviewers call a must-order. It is also popular for catfish, tamales with chili, and seafood gumbo, all served in a Beale Street blues setting.
What dishes are most recommended at Blues City Cafe?
The most recommended dishes are the ribs, fried catfish, seafood gumbo, and the tamales with chili. Reviewers also mention the shrimp skillet with garlic butter, chili cheese fries, and steak fries as solid picks, with portions often large enough to share.
What is the atmosphere like at Blues City Cafe?
The vibe is a casual, old-school Memphis blues spot with a retro or dive-joint feel, live music in the back, and a lively Beale Street location. It seems to work well for couples, groups, and families, especially if you want a loud, energetic meal with music rather than a quiet dinner.
Is Blues City Cafe good value, and what is the price range?
Yes, reviewers often say the prices are really good for the amount of food you get, and the portions are generous enough that many people leave with a to-go box. One review puts a catfish dinner at about $24, which fits a moderate price range for a Beale Street restaurant.
When is the best time to visit Blues City Cafe?
If you want to avoid extra costs, one reviewer notes that arriving before 3:30 pm can help you avoid a cover charge for just stopping in, while later Beale Street parking rates go up. People also mention that live music can affect seating, so earlier visits may be easier if you want a table without waiting.
