Cocktail Bar
Unclaimed profileSilly Goose Lounge
Memphis, TN · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Silly Goose Lounge's cocktail program is the main draw, featuring a wide array of handcrafted drinks with in-house syrups and fresh ingredients. The menu spans creative signatures like the Josephine and Hopa Cupa, with prices from $12 to $14. Wine and beer lists are serviceable but unremarkable, while a small mocktail section offers thoughtful non-alcoholic options. A solid downtown destination for craft cocktail enthusiasts.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Josephine, a rum-based mix with pineapple, lime, and coconut. For something smoky, the Catching Smoke uses mezcal with fig agave and banana. The Espresso Martini, made with bourbon infused with French press coffee, is a caffeinated twist. If skipping alcohol, the Pearfect mocktail combines pear, turmeric, and ginger.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Craft cocktail fans will appreciate the inventive drinks and house-made syrups. The lounge's late hours and downtown location make it suitable for night owls and those seeking a sophisticated drink after dinner. The mocktail options also cater to designated drivers or non-drinkers looking for a flavorful alternative.
- When should I go?
- It's a good spot for a nightcap or a pre-dinner cocktail.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $12 to $14, with a $6 Joe Shot for a quick hit. Mocktails are $7. Wines by the glass run $9 to $13, while bottles start at $35. Beers are $6 to $7, and seltzers $8.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The cocktail menu showcases a thoughtful use of in-house syrups and fresh ingredients, with a dedicated mocktail section. The venue has been a downtown staple since 2008, recently revitalized by new owners.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Extensive menu of handcrafted cocktails with in-house syrups and fresh ingredients. Pricing is moderate for craft cocktails.
Menu strengths
- — Creative cocktail list with seasonal and signature options.
- — In-house syrups and fresh ingredients highlighted in reviews.
Standout selections
- — Josephine - Diplomático Rum, Faccia Brutto, Pineapple, Lime, Coconut ($12)
- — Hopa Cupa - Tito's Vodka, St. Germain, Blackberry Shrub, Lemon, Ginger, Pineapple ($13)
- — Serafine - Wheatley Vodka, Passion Fruit, Aperol, Lemon, Strawberry Jalapeno, Raspberry ($14)
- — Catching Smoke - Palomo Mezcal, Pineapple, Fig Agave, Ancho Verde, Lemon, Banana ($13)
Pricing: Cocktails $12-$14; Joe Shot $6
Wine
Wine list includes domestic and imported options by glass and bottle, with a few premium champagnes. No community evidence on quality, but the selection is adequate for a cocktail bar.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse wine list with by-the-glass and bottle options.
- — Premium champagne selections like Veuve Clicquot and Dom Perignon.
Standout selections
- — Etude Lyric Pinot Noir ($13/$50); Sonoma-cuter Chardonnay ($12/$45)
Pricing: Wine by the glass $9-$13; bottles $35-$55; premium champagnes up to $390
Beer
Beer selection is limited but includes local options like Fireside and Ghost River. Pricing is standard.
Menu strengths
- — Includes local beers.; Variety of domestic and import options.
Standout selections
- — Fireside ($7); Ghost River Golden Ale ($7)
Pricing: Domestic $6-$7, imports $7, seltzers $8
Nonalcoholic
Two dedicated mocktails, Pearfect and Honeycrisp, offer creative non-alcoholic options with fresh ingredients. Limited selection but well-priced.
Menu strengths
- — Dedicated mocktail section with creative recipes.; Affordable at $7 each.
Standout selections
- — Pearfect - Pear, Turmeric, Ginger, Rainbow peppercorn, Lime and Coconut cream ($7)
- — Honeycrisp - Basil, Apple, Cranberry, Honey, Lime ($7)
Pricing: Mocktails $7
Spirits
Wide range of spirits used in cocktails, including premium choices like WhistlePig Rye and Diplomatico Rum. No dedicated spirits list, but the cocktail menu showcases quality.
Menu strengths
- — High-quality spirits used in cocktails.; Spirit-forward cocktail menu.
Standout selections
- — WhistlePig Rye (in cocktails); Monkey Shoulder (in Penicillin)
Pricing: No separate spirits list; prices per cocktail
How it sits with the food
The menu includes wood-fired pizzas and Italian cuisine, which pair well with the cocktail list. The Josephine's tropical notes could complement a spicy pizza, while the Penicillin's smoky ginger might match a rich meat dish.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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