Memphis may be known as the home of the blues, but it is also considered the birthplace of rock and roll. This means the local/regional music hub Young Avenue Deli is right at home in the Cooper-Young neighborhood in the middle of town. Not your spot if you need white tablecloths, this music joint offers an extensive menu of beers and a savor menu of sandwiches.
I used to go here once a month for lunch and could always get something different. This trip included a southern favorite pimento cheese sandwich and a sizeable salad for my dining companion. Seeing as I was on vacation at the time, I figured it appropriate to have a locally brewed Ghost River Brown Ale to quench my thirst on a hot summer day.
The fries there claim to be spectacular, but while I do enjoy them, I can’t say they are in my top five. The fried dill pickles are worth getting and my other favorite sandwiches include the Politically Incorrect, the Bren Calafornia Pita and BBQ Dip.
Young Avenue Deli might not be worth planning a whole day around, but it was a reliable place when I lived in Memphis. Oh, and you get to take your plastic cup home with you when you order a soda or something, so you certainly don’t forget the place!

