By the Brewery

Located on Tennessee Street, By the Brewery positions itself as a fast-casual breakfast and lunch destination in Downtown Memphis. It operates out of a bright, modern space that customers frequently describe as clean and welcoming, filled with natural light. The establishment aims to serve dishes built on thoughtfully sourced, fresh ingredients, a claim that is largely supported by patron feedback. However, a closer look reveals a nuanced picture with distinct advantages and notable drawbacks that potential customers should consider.

The Culinary Offerings: More Than Just Biscuits

The menu at By the Brewery is centered around breakfast and lunch classics, with a clear emphasis on Southern comfort food fused with some healthier, contemporary options. Their biscuit sandwiches are a major talking point. Many customers rave about them, particularly the Chicken Biscuit and the Brisket Biscuit, praising their flavor and satisfying nature. One reviewer even declared the biscuits "too good!!". Yet, opinions are not universally positive. At least one patron found the biscuit itself to be average, suggesting that while the fillings are well-regarded, the foundational element might not appeal to everyone's taste.

Beyond the biscuits, the menu offers a solid variety of items. The Egg Avocado Sandwich is a recurring favorite, and the "potato crisp things," as one enthusiastic customer called them, receive consistent praise for their deliciousness. For those seeking healthy breakfast options, the cafe provides thoughtfully constructed sandwiches and sides. For lunch, the selection expands to include a range of salads and grain bowls. The Cuban Grain Bowl, for instance, is noted as a hearty and flavorful choice for a healthy meal. This focus on substantial, non-skimpy salads provides solid healthy lunch options for downtown diners. That said, flavor profiles can be subjective. The tomato jam on the BLT has been described by a customer as overly sweet, a detail that might be a deal-breaker for some but a delight for others.

What About Juices?

It is important to clarify that By the Brewery is not a dedicated juice bar. Those searching for a wide array of cold-pressed juices or custom-blended smoothies and juices will find the selection limited. The establishment focuses on coffee, tea, and some bottled natural beverages, including orange juice. The emphasis here is less on liquid nutrition and more on serving a complete, fresh-made meal. The "healthy" aspect comes from the quality of the natural ingredients used in their salads, bowls, and sandwiches rather than from a blender or a juicer.

The Atmosphere and Service Model

The physical environment of By the Brewery is one of its strongest assets. Visitors consistently describe the interior as bright, cute, and welcoming. Its clean, modern aesthetic makes it a pleasant spot for a quick lunch or a casual breakfast meeting. The proximity to Butler Park and the riverfront is an added bonus, offering patrons a chance to enjoy nearby scenic views after their meal.

However, the service model is a significant point of contention for some. The restaurant operates on a fast-casual, counter-service basis: you order at the counter, and drinks are self-serve. While the staff is generally reported to be friendly and welcoming, the system itself has drawn criticism, particularly concerning the tipping expectations. One review pointedly mentioned a suggested 30% tip at the point of sale, which they found incongruous with the lack of table service. This disconnect between a counter-service setup and high tipping suggestions is a recurring theme and a potential source of friction for new customers who may expect a full-service experience for the price point.

Key Considerations Before You Go

When deciding whether to visit By the Brewery, potential patrons should weigh its strengths against its operational limitations and specific customer critiques.

Potential Downsides:

• Limited Operating Hours: The cafe is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and only operates from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM on the days it is open. This narrow window can be inconvenient for those seeking late lunch or weekday breakfast options early in the week.
• Service and Tipping Structure: The counter-service model paired with what some feel are high suggested tips can be off-putting. It’s a system that requires customers to bus their own tables while still being prompted to tip as if in a full-service restaurant.
• Subjective Signature Items: While many love the biscuits and unique sauces, there are dissenting opinions. The quality of the biscuit and the sweetness of certain condiments have been questioned, indicating that these signature flavors may not be universally appealing.
• Not a Juice Destination: Despite its focus on fresh food, it does not offer the extensive menu of fresh juices that one would find at a specialized juice shop.

Primary Strengths:

• High-Quality Food: The overwhelming consensus is that the food is delicious, fresh, and made from high-quality ingredients. Sides like the potatoes are particularly celebrated.
• Pleasant Ambiance: The clean, bright, and welcoming atmosphere provides a very pleasant dining environment.
• Healthy and Hearty Options: The menu successfully balances comfort food with genuinely healthy and substantial salads and grain bowls, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.
• Convenient Downtown Location: Situated on Tennessee Street, it's a great spot for those living, working, or visiting the downtown Memphis area.

By the Brewery offers a compelling option for a high-quality breakfast or lunch in a charming downtown setting. Its menu is creative and largely delicious, with a commendable focus on fresh ingredients and offering both indulgent and healthy choices. However, prospective diners must be aware of its significant limitations, including restrictive hours and a counter-service model that some find at odds with its pricing and tipping prompts. It stands as a solid choice, provided its operational style aligns with your expectations for a casual dining experience.