Retro bar opens in the former Memphis Sounds Lounge; here's what to expect

Down below the bright and cheery 3rd & Court Diner in Hotel Indigo is one of the coolest retro bars in town.

Originally the home of the Memphis Sounds Lounge, the basement at 3rd & Court has been reopened as a dark and moody speakeasy-style lounge with a funky 1970s vibe.

Ryan Trimm, Craig Blondis and Roger Sapp are the trio behind this new reiteration of this once-popular basement lounge. The three are partners in Across the Board Restaurant Group, the company that owns establishments like 3rd & Court Diner, Sweet Grass / Next Door, Sunrise Memphis, Belle Tavern and 117 Prime.

The name? Well that has yet to be determined. For now, the staff is calling it “The Lounge.”

“Every time we start a new project we want to make sure we create a concept different from other ones we have opened. It is important for us to add to the already soulful and unique Memphis,” Trimm said.

“We also looked at the history of the area and the building. When we walked into the space, we knew we had something special. Although food is a major catalyst for all that we have done so far, this spot hinges more on music and cocktails. You’ll be able to order everything from a craft cocktail to a High Life and a shot of whiskey.”

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The space feels like you are stepping back in time. 

The owners kept the original bar, wood paneling, lighting and banquettes. The original bar stools are still there, now just recovered.

1970s glittery gold drapes hang behind the new stage. Sapp’s wife, Kathy, made them for the space.

TVs and what is described as a new “killer” sound system have been added.

Open evenings only Thursday through Saturday, the lounge will feature a combination of live music and a DJ. Thursday and Sunday nights will have a DJ. Fridays and Saturdays will feature live entertainment.

“Music will have a concentration on Memphis staples but will also include blues, funk, jazz and tons of soul from the '60s and '70s,” Trimm said. “In between live acts, the house music will consist of a vinyl collection of the same style.” 

Nick Lumpkin and Jef Hicks are in charge of the bar. They have created a curated cocktail menu featuring some fun options like “The Burt Reynolds,” a cocktail made with bozal mezcal, blanc vermouth, sfumato, angostura, lime and charred rosemary. Local beers and a limited wine selection are also available.

The lounge has a VIP private room that can be reserved for a small group. 

“We also have the capability to flip the room between day and night,” Trimm said of rental options. “It can easily be transformed into a conference or meeting space at lunch seating up to 70 guests complete with microphone, podium, projector, AV system and conference tables, but then switch right back to a lounge at night.” 

The 3rd & Court menu will be available during open hours of operation for the diner. Burgers will be available for after-hours. Something that will excite breakfast fans: As of this week, the diner now serves breakfast all day.

The lounge is now officially open, but the grand opening celebration is not until Nov. 7.

“The Maitre D’s are playing that night,” General Manager Dougan Grimes said.

“We are such a small venue, and certainly aren’t trying to compete with your Beale Street clubs. But, so many times I’m asked, ‘Where can I go listen to real classic Memphis music and blues?’” Trimm added. “Hopefully we will be able to be that answer.”

Jennifer Chandler is the Food & Dining reporter at The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached at jennifer.chandler@commercialappeal.com and you can follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @cookwjennifer. 

If you go

'The Lounge' at 3rd & Court Diner

Where: Hotel Indigo, 24 N. B.B. King Blvd.

Phone: 901-930-0743

Hours: 5 p.m. until last call Thursday-Sunday