After opening their 2008-2009 season in Houston on Wednesday, the Grizzlies return to Memphis on Friday for their home opener against the Orlando Magic, marking the eighth season they’ve called the River City home.  This year’s young team may be short on experience, but they boast plenty of athleticism and talent.  O.J. Mayo, the sensational USC standout described by Grizzlies owner Michael Heisley as “the next Dwayne Wade,” and fellow rookies Marc Gasol and Darrell Arthur join the returning cast of players that includes point guard Mike Conley and Rudy Gay, who led the team in scoring last year with 20.1 points per game.  Don’t miss the chance to catch some exciting Grizzlies action at the Fed Ex Forum this season as Memphis looks to rebound from last year’s disap

pointing season and to battle for a playoff spot in the highly

competitive Western Conference.  To order tickets, go to http://www.nba.com/grizzlies/.

But the fun of going to a Grizzlies game doesn’t have to end when the final buzzer sounds.  With the Fed Ex Forum located in the heart of the Beale Street entertainment district, fans have a host of choices when it comes to post-game activities. 

If you’re eager for some late-night noshing after a game, you’ll find no shortage of delectable dining choices.  If it’s some BBQ you’re craving, then head to the corner of Beale and Second Street and enjoy a rack of succulent wet ribs at The Blues City Café http://www.bluescitycafe.com/ .  If prefer dry rub, stroll down a few blocks to 52 South Second for a taste of world-famous BBQ at The Rendevous http://www.hogsfly.com/.   

There’s a chance, though, that if you visit the concession stand during a game, you won’t want something as big as a rack of ribs.  If want something smaller and faster, say, a burger and fries, drop by Dyer’s Burgers http://www.dyersonbeale.com/ on Beale.  Opened in 1912 by Elmer “Doc” Dyer, the restaurant has served up tasty burgers for nearly a century, purportedly using the very same grease—strained daily—used by Doc himself.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cold beer with some friends to celebrate a thrilling Grizzlies’ victory or trying to drown your sorrows following a devastating loss, downtown offers plenty of choices for pub crawling.  Here’s a quick look at just a few of the options:

The Flying Saucer Draught Emporium – 130 Peabody Place www.beerknurd.com

A beer lover’s heaven, the Flying Saucer serves over 75 draught beers and gives patrons a chance to join the BEERKNURDs beer club.  The pub’s large beer garden also hosts live music.

Rum Boogie Café – 182 Beale Street www.rumboogie.com

As their name entails, Rum Boogie Café boasts a wide variety of rum, making it a must-stop for rum and mixed-drink lovers.  The café also serves up plenty of Memphis cuisine:  BBQ ribs, gumbo, catfish, and more.  It’s also a prime spot to catch some live music from local and national acts.

Beale Street Tap Room – 168 Beale Street

With 27 beers on tap and 33 bottled beers, beer lovers have no shortage of options.  The Tap Room, known for its friendly and relaxed atmosphere, also serves food and offers an extensive selection of liquor.

Coyote Ugly Saloon – 326 Beale Street
www.coyoteuglysaloon.com

Famous for its bar top-dancing beauties, Coyote Ugly is bent on creating a good-times atmosphere for its patrons.  Take advantage of one of the numerous drink specials, and if you’re hungry, grab a burger or some wings.

Jillian’s – 150 Peabody Place
www.jillians.com

Jillian’s is a veritable adult playground.  Divided into six “venues,” it

gives customers a variety of entertainment choices.  If you haven’t had your fill of sports for the night, grab a table at the Video Café and watch games while enjoying a beer or some American cuisine.  If you’re wanting a little competition of your own, shoot some pool at the 9 Ball Lounge, bowl a few games at Hi-Life Lanes, or try your hand at arcade games in the Amazing Games room.  And if that’s still not enough for you, you can strut your stuff at Atlas Dance or chill out in one of the VIP rooms.

A Family-Friendly Choice

For Grizzlies fans looking for a quiet and family-friendly hangout after the game, the Blues City Pastry Shop & Coffee Bar (www.bluescitypastry.com) is the perfect choice.  Located at the intersection of Main Street and Peabody Place, Blues City Pastry Shop has a bevy of coffee drinks and desserts sure to entice any java fanatics and sweet tooths alike.  Choose from two- dozen dessert options ranging from cheesecake to apple strudel, ten coffee beverages, all-natural fruit smoothies, gourmet chocolates, and more.