Free live music in Memphis
Over Christmas and New Year’s I was in Memphis visiting my in-laws and was able to go to Celtic Crossing. This is one of my favorite places to listen to live music as it is usually not overly crowded, too noisy, or filled with obnoxious drunks.
As the name of the restaurant would imply, the live music is Celtic. What may not be obvious though is that there is no stage; the performers sit around one of the tables so no matter where you are sitting, typically you can get a great view. These are "pick-up" events where musicians will just show up and you never know who you will see in advance, which can be exciting. For those worried about sporadic quality, I can honestly say that of the four or five times I’ve been there for music, I have never had a bad musical experience.
Even if you do not show up for at one of the alternating Tuesdays when music is being performed, the menu is good. They have the traditional fare that you would expect including beer battered fish and chips but also some unexpected items like Reubens. If you live in or around the Memphis area or are visiting, be sure to stop by and have a few Harps – or Guinness’s – for me.