Downtown Memphis’ long-quiet basement bar is getting a second act, and this time it is dressed in craft cocktails and smash burgers.
A new cocktail bar called Spoken For is set to take over the former Longshot space at the Arrive Memphis hotel this summer. The project is being led by Shadow Tequila co-owner Teddy Jasper and his father, who say the spot will lean into carefully made drinks and a short, bar-friendly food menu that includes smash burgers. The basement footprint has been empty for nearly two years, and the arrival of a fresh concept could shake up late-night options along South Main.
As reported by Daily Memphian, Jasper and his father have officially named the concept Spoken For and are aiming for a summer opening. “We want to bring together the accessibility of a dive bar and the high-quality experience of a cocktail bar,” Jasper told the paper. Early plans call for a focus on craft cocktails paired with a tightly curated menu.
Who’s behind the concept
Teddy Jasper is the co-founder and CEO of Shadow Tequila, a Memphis-born spirits brand, according to Shadow Tequila. His background in hospitality and beverage, combined with local roots, suggests Spoken For could lean into tequila-driven cocktails and potential collaborations with regional producers.
Where the Longshot space fits downtown
Arrive Memphis lists several on-site food and drink spots, including Longshot, Bar Hustle, and Hustle & Dough, on its website, making the hotel a familiar stop for visitors to South Main. The Daily Memphian reports the Longshot footprint has sat vacant for nearly two years and that Jasper has already provided an AI-generated mock-up of the planned interior. Owners have not shared a firm opening date beyond a target of “this summer.”
For now, Spoken For’s build-out continues through permitting and interior work, with the team saying it will release menu details and operating hours closer to opening. We will be keeping an eye on filings and local announcements as this basement bar gets ready for its next chapter.
