"The Dame: A Historic Memphis Gem Reborn Excellent for after-work drinks and catching up with friends After 119 years of history, Hotel Pontotoc has reopened its doors, and what a spectacular return it is! This beautifully restored hotel and bar feels both timeless and refreshingly new – literally. Walking in, you're greeted by that wonderful "new" smell that immediately tells you this place has been lovingly renovated. The Food & Drinks Let's talk about that spinach dip – it's a game-changer. Perfectly pureed and so incredibly delicious that I'm convinced I'll never want spinach dip any other way again. It sets the bar high for everything else. The cocktail program strikes an excellent balance between classics and creativity. While you can't go wrong with their well-executed Negronis, Mint Juleps, and Manhattans, the signature cocktails are where The Dame truly shines: Crystal Shrine Grotto pays beautiful homage to Memphis with its tequila base and smoked rosemary – a thoughtful nod to the stunning grotto in an East Memphis cemetery. It's refreshing without being overly sweet. The Flip Side was my personal favorite: watermelon liqueur and vodka with lemonade that's absolutely perfect for Memphis sizzling summers. Crisp, refreshing, and exactly what you want when the heat is relentless. The Atmosphere The space is beautifully decorated with excellent attention to detail, and whoever curated their music playlist deserves recognition – it creates the perfect backdrop for conversation without overwhelming it. I have eclectic music tastes, and what I heard did not disappoint. The beauty of this place is that it isn't one of those places where you have to shout to be heard. Bottom Line The Dame is ideal for a chill nightcap or those after-work drinks where you actually want to catch up with friends. The combination of historical charm, excellent drinks, thoughtful food, and a perfectly calibrated atmosphere makes this a must-visit spot."

"I stayed at the hotel for 2 nights and ended my evening downstairs at the Dame both nights. The servers and bartenders were friendly even after my guest broke a glass of prosecco and made a huge mess. The popcorn sampler was the perfect snack to accompany late night drinks."

"The Dame! Located downstairs at the Hotel Pontotoc, this place is such a fun & cool step back in time. Most importantly, the cocktails are delicious! I liked the Pontotoc, their spin on the Negroni. Our group also raved about the martinis and the old fashioned. The bartenders are top notch and friendly. The decor and music (we had live music both nights) make for such a fun and swanky vibe. On a nice night, take your drinks out to the private courtyard. If you’re in Memphis, this spot is a must!"

"The Dame is hands-down one of the best new cocktail bars in Memphis. From the moment you walk in, the decor sets the tone. It's intimate, and perfectly designed for a night out with friends or a date. The atmosphere strikes a balance between cozy and upscale, and it feels like every detail of the interior has been thoughtfully chosen. And the drinks are exceptional too!"

"Love the quaint dim bar. It was empty but truly is a hidden gem. The bartender was very friendly and the deco is Manhattan chic. Only thing I would add is maybe more finger foods selections. Nice vibe for late or evening drink or business meeting."