Welcome to The Archives, a casual, but elevated bar and restaurant located inside Hotel Napoleon in Downtown Memphis, Tennessee.
Owned by renowned Chef Phillip Dewayne, the establishment serves Italian blend coffees and light breakfasts in the morning, followed by craft cocktails, wine and creative dishes with Southern charm in the evening.
The name “The Archives” pays homage to the library often found in a newspaper’s office, where microfilm or printed copies of past editions were stored.
Whether you are dining solo or sharing a meal with friends, The Archives invites you to gather, savor and enjoy.
Had breakfast here each morning while staying at The Napoleon Hotel. It was delicious! This chef is really good! Can’t go wrong with anything you order.
DS
David Soltis
Aug 7, 2025
1.0
Closed. 8-7-2025. Management didn’t even put a message up that they were remodeling. Soooo disappointed.
MP
Melissa Pope
Jun 6, 2025
1.0
Met up with some friends after work for drinks. Ordered a dirty vodka martini. When it arrived, it had a slight pink hue to it, which was perplexing. But I had asked if they had Tabasco behind the bar they could add to my drink. They did not. So I assumed maybe they tried using a different hot sauce in my drink. I drank the first one and it definitely off and wasn’t great, but I was really looking forward to a martini so I knocked it back. Ordered a second and it was even more pink. I took one sip and immediately spit it out. It was horrible. That’s when I realized what the bartender had done. She used sweet vermouth in a dirty martini. If you are a bartender, and you can’t make a simple cocktail like a martini, you have no business being behind a bar.
The service was severely lacking and inattentive. To the point that it wasn’t even worth bringing up the drink issue because I knew there was nothing they could do to fix it.
As the server dropped our checks which were not correct by the way, she informed us that the 20% service charge is not autographed and that she does not get any of that. So in addition to a 20% service fee, you were also tipping the weight staff. Avoid this place. It’s got scam written all over it.
Beautiful space after the renovation but not much has change in the level of service that they provide.
TM
Trenika Matthews
May 9, 2023
5.0
I've always walked by here and admired the huge glass window, ceiling lights, and chal board wall. It's very inviting, but for a couple of years i just kept forgetting they were open. However, this year, i made it my mission to go, and so far, I've been twice. I always end up with a great bartender having great conversations and cocktails! Lunar's cute and trendy atmosphere makes it perfect for bar hopping, pictures, or people watching. I love that the crafted cocktails seem to be made with fresh ingredients. I say it seems because I've only had The Winchester, which is delicious blood orange vanilla maragarita. The food menu is pretty small, so I would categorize them as a just bar and not a full restaurant. Definitely somewhere you can grab a quick bite as They have more than bar snacks but don't expect anything gourmet. Lunar is also a cafe, so if you're looking for coffee, they can assist you there as well!
Frequently Asked Questions About The Archives Bar & Bistro
What are the dine-in hours for The Archives Bar & Bistro during weekdays?
The Archives Bar & Bistro is open for dine-in on Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Does The Archives Bar & Bistro offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner?
Yes, The Archives serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner across its operating hours.
Can I find craft cocktails and wine at The Archives Bar & Bistro?
Yes, they offer craft cocktails, wine, and creative dishes with Southern charm in the evening.
Is The Archives Bar & Bistro wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the restaurant has wheelchair accessible entrances, seating, and restrooms to accommodate guests.
Does The Archives Bar & Bistro accept reservations?
They accept reservations but do not require them, allowing for walk-in guests as well.
Where is The Archives Bar & Bistro located?
It is located inside Hotel Napoleon at 179 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103, USA.
Are there parking options available near The Archives Bar & Bistro?
Yes, there are paid street parking options as well as paid garage parking like First Tennessee Garage (SP+ Parking) nearby, and valet parking is also available.
What notable landmarks and places of interest are near The Archives Bar & Bistro?
Nearby landmarks include the Toof Building, The Queen of Memphis, and Pressbox Lofts which are great to visit before or after dining.
Are there other restaurants or bars close to The Archives Bar & Bistro?
Yes, nearby you can find Luna Restaurant and Bar and The Brass Door, which offer additional dining and bar experiences in Downtown Memphis.
Does The Archives Bar & Bistro offer any online resources for menu and reservations?
Yes, menus are available online at their website, and reservations can be made through their ExploreTock page.