Flyway Brewery Keeps High Cotton's Spirit Alive in The Edge District
Regional Relations, Locally Loved
So much of the cultivation of the current city of Memphis is really a re-cultivation of itself; a growing interest in districts of the past, a redrawing of neighborhood lines to include new businesses and restaurants, and an emphasis on the unique charm of what once was. The Edge District is an excellent example of that redefinition. With new businesses and eateries, attractions and retail, all alongside the famed Sun Studios, this area historically hailed as the “birthplace of rock ‘n roll” is now a destination for Memphians.
Right on Monroe Avenue in the Edge sits the old High Cotton brewery, now renamed Flyway and serving up craft beers and memorable dishes. This spacious restaurant and taproom is an ideal spot for a meal for a large gathering or a bite to eat before making your way downtown for a Grizz game or concert. And Flyway serves as a great example of how a regional brand swooped in to help maintain the taste and legacy of a Memphis institution.
High Cotton to Flyway
When the High Cotton founders sold their brewery to Little Rock brand Flyway in 2024, it was imperative that a few things wouldn’t change. The legacy beers that High Cotton produced would “live forever” on tap at the newly branded location, and if possible, the painted High Cotton branding wouldn’t be covered up on the building. The fundamentals of the relationship were important to the trade and Flyway has proven to keep their end of the bargain, expand the original taproom, and create a welcome spot that still feels regionally relevant and serves the neighborhood well.
The Legacy Maintained
Along with doubling the original number of taps from ten to twenty, Flyway has created a food menu that truly elevates the experience of the taproom. On a recent lunch date with our kiddos, we followed the server’s recommendations and tried several snacks that surprised and pleased everyone at the table.
The soft pretzels were a standout (because who doesn’t love a soft pretzel), but the unique flavors and sauce pairings were the real crowd pleaser. Our absolute favorite was the lavender salted pretzel with honey mustard. We’re still talking about how one pretzel alone is worth the drive to The Edge. But the BBQ nachos and the smoked turkey sandwich were incredible too. The distinct richness of the Bluewing BBQ sauce on the nachos alongside the candied jalapenos earned it rave reviews, even from the children. And the smoked turkey sandwich was anything but boring. The meat was juicy and full of flavor and we kept passing the dish around so everyone could keep taking bites. Paired with a craft beer or two, you’ve got a great evening at a regionally owned restaurant that has kept the legacy of High Cotton while adding more value to the community. It’s a win-win.