Black Lodge is a Memphis treasure. It's part video rental store (likely the only one left in the city), part event space, and now part cafe. Just a few weeks ago, Black Lodge added a full food menu, and it's heavy on vegan options! Last Sunday, Paul and I finally stopped in to eat. We'd been to plenty of dance parties and concerts there (and they host film screenings almost weekly). It's also the place to go when you're looking for a movie that's not available on streaming. But this was our first time in the Black Lodge cafe space.
Currently, Black Lodge has a Parks & Rec brunch every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It's exactly what it sounds like! They play episodes of Parks & Rec on the big screen during brunch. The whole menu is available during brunch hours, so I opted for a more lunch/dinner dish — the Ed Begley Jr. Bowl (named after everyone's favorite environmentalist actor).
It was listed on the menu as a more Mexican-style bowl with black beans and a spicy sauce, but they made a sushi-inspired version with tempeh bacon, white rice, pickled carrots, pickled cucumbers, fried onions, and avocado. I'm guessing that's just what they had on-hand. It's that kind of free spirit place, and I'm down with that!
Paul ordered a non-vegan waffle grilled cheese with brie and walnuts, so I'll spare you that. But he enjoyed it even though he was skeptical about a grilled cheese with brie. I also ordered an expertly mixed Tequila Sunrise (thanks, Ash!) because brunch!
The menu also includes a Lisa Simpson-inspired vegan hot dog, Beyond burgers, vegan waffles, and a seitan & beets sandwich. So I'll be back to try all of that soon!
After brunch, Paul played a few games of Contra at the community gaming station. They also have a few vintage arcade games as well. We were tempted to rent some movies to take home, but we had some very important Stranger Things episodes to finish!
I am glad to see that is has some Twin Peaks themed decor going on given the name!
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