From Pool to Pineapples: Kick Back at Peoples on Beale
If you’ve ever taken a stroll down Beale Street, you’ve felt the history and the energy. Among the lively bars and music venues, Peoples on Beale stands out as a pool hall with a deep-rooted history and a laid-back, hometown vibe.
If you’ve ever taken a stroll down Beale Street, you’ve felt the history and the energy. Among the lively bars and music venues, Peoples on Beale stands out as a pool hall with a deep-rooted history and a laid-back, hometown vibe.
Since 1904, Peoples has been a downtown Memphis staple, moving to its current Beale Street location in 1989.
Michael McRae, the current owner, took over in 2015 with his brother, Robert, who worked at Peoples for 12 years. Robert was a talented pool player who made his mark in local leagues, and his passion left a lasting influence on the place. He passed away in 2021 with his brother assuming ownership.
Michael describes Peoples as a more relaxed alternative to the typical Beale Street experience.
“It’s friendly and laid-back,” he says. “It’s more of a hometown vibe scene.”
120+ Years of History
120+ Years of History
Peoples on Beale has been a part of Memphis for over 120 years, with its origins as Peeples Cafeteria before becoming an official tavern in the 1930s after prohibition.
The Cerrito family ran the establishment for three generations until the 1980s. Peoples made its way from the basement by what’s now the The Brass Door to Beale Street in 1989, bringing its legacy and character along.
One of its notable features inside is the neon sign that once hung over Madison Avenue in the 1930s, symbolizing the pool hall’s enduring presence in downtown Memphis.
Inside Peoples, you’ll find a nine pool tables including five vintage pool tables dating back to the 1920s.
More than a Pool Hall
More than a Pool Hall
One of the highlights at Peoples on Beale is its signature drink, the Peoples Pineapple, a large cocktail served in–you guessed it–a pineapple, alongside other casual eats like BBQ nachos and chili. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, especially during their daily happy hour from 4-7 p.m., which features free pool.
On Tuesday nights, Peoples hosts a singles pool tournament with double elimination, beginning at 7 p.m. The winner walks away with a trophy and a bar tab gift certificate—a great incentive to chalk up your cue and join in the fun.
As the cool season approaches, Peoples has an extensive menu of warm cocktails featuring coffee and hot chocolate bases.
A New Interactive Experience
A New Interactive Experience
Peoples on Beale is also stepping into the future with a new Interactive Billiard Experience. They’ve recently installed a state-of-the-art projection system that transforms one of their antique billiard tables into a digital hover screen.
With 23 themes and a variety of games and training modes to choose from, it’s an engaging new way to enjoy the game.
The Legacy Continues
Whether you’re looking to rack up for a few friendly rounds of pool, sip on a Peoples Pineapple, or check out their new high-tech table, Peoples on Beale offers a unique blend of history and fun.
So next time you find yourself on Beale, take a break from the usual hustle and bustle, and step into Peoples on Beale. There’s a good time waiting for you, and a piece of Memphis history to be discovered.
GO THERE:
GO THERE:
Peoples on Beale
323 Beale Street.
HOURS:
Monday-Wednesday: 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Thursday: 1 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Friday-Saturday: 1 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. to 2 a.m.
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