The bar scene in Nashville, Tennessee is unlike anything you have ever experienced before.
Are you in the mood for world-class musical acts?
Do you have a taste for mouth-watering BBQ or Cajun food?
Have you dreamed of possibly running into a celebrity?
Do you have a knack for karaoke and singing along with all your new friends you’ve made?
Is a classic honky tonk more your speed?
Guess what? The Nashville bar scene has all of this to offer and more!
Many of the popular bars are located on Broadway Street. This little slice of heaven is a lively, bustling street full of restaurants and bars. You are guaranteed to have an amazing time and make plenty new acquaintances in the process.
Start your night at any of the bars of your choosing. If its not quite the atmosphere you crave, just walk next door and try again! The number of bars in Nashville is large and anyone can find the perfect venue for their ideal evening.
Keep reading to see our top picks for the best bars in Nashville.
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge
When thinking of the bar scene in Nashville, the first thought for many is-Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge. This bar has been a staple to downtown Nashville since 1960. Tootsie’s is merely an alley’s walk away from The Ryman Auditorium.
Before Tootsie’s was born, a lounge with the simple name of Mom’s lived in its space. Hattie Louise “Tootsie” Bess bought the building in 1960 and fittingly called it her own. According to legend, the painter that Ms. Bess hired to paint her new establishment, painted the building its signature color of orchid. That color remains and the name has served it well over the years.
Now, you can catch live, honky tonk acts at Tootsie’s and relish in a full meal while enjoying the bar’s classic atmosphere.
422 Broadway
Nashville, TN. 37203
(615)726-0463
Tin Roof
Tin Roof is known for its daily live music scene. They are located in the very heart of Broadway Street, conveniently located near other bars, restaurants and hotels.
Tin Roof’s two full levels each feature their own stage to delight your musical senses. If you don’t like what is playing on floor #1, just walk up the stairs to where another option awaits. A 3rd level rooftop patio is available during the warmer months of the year.
Tin Roof takes pride in what they describe as “better than bar” food. Some of the delicious options they offer include: Street Corn Quesadillas, Nashville Hot Chicken, Wings and so much more!
1516 Demonbreun St.
Nashville, TN. 37203
Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar
Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar opened in 2018, close to the center of Broadway Street. This bar features four levels of fun, amazing food, spectacular live music and much more.
If you’re a fan of Jason, you know his most famous song is “Big Green Tractor”. The first level of the Kitchen + Rooftop Bar highlights a 1961 4020 John Deere Tractor, adjacent to the large bar. Jason Aldean had a direct hand in planning the delicious menu and the tasty drinks that are featured in his bar. Selections include: Jalapeno Waffle Cornbread, Jason’s Mac & Cheese with beer pulled chicken and Mama Aldean’s Peach Cobbler.
This incredible bar also features a rooftop patio that features amazing views of Broadway Street, live entertainment, a “build your own basket” menu (think Hot Chicken Sandwiches, Burgers and Fries) and cocktails fit for the country music star himself.
307 Broadway Street
Nashville, TN. 37201
Wildhorse Saloon
The Wildhorse Saloon is another staple of Nashville nightlife. Opening in 1994, the Wildhorse Saloon has been the stop for many country music legends as well as classic rock heroes. Some of the artists that have graced the stage include Rascal Flatts, Foreigner, Etta James, .38 Special, Lonestar and Little Big Town.
This 66,000 square foot behemoth is the line dancing destination of Nashville. At any one time, 2,400 people can be inside the building, dancing the night away. Nightly line dancing is offered if you want to pick up a new hobby while enjoying your evening!
A full menu is available at the Wildhorse as well as an extensive cocktail/beer menu. The Wildhorse boasts the following mind-blowing facts:
- Over 10 million bottles of beer have been purchased
- Each year, over 2 million pickle slices are eaten, due to their famous fried pickles
- Yearly, 3,000 gallons of BBQ sauce is used in various recipes
120 2nd Ave. N
Nashville, TN. 37201
(615)902-8200
Robert’s Western World
If you’re in the mood for some proper honky tonk music, Robert’s Western World is the place to be! This quintessential bar has all the makings of a classic Nashville bar. Once the home of the Sho-Bud Steel Guitar Company, Robert’s made its entrance as Rhinestone Western Wear in the early 1990’s. Southern food and live music soon made the scene. In 1992, Robert Moore eventually changed the name to Robert’s Western World.
The Honky Tonk Grill, housed inside Robert’s, still serves up Fried Bologna Sandwiches-just like they did in the early 1990’s. If you’re in the mood for a bargain, check out their Recession Special. This features a fried bologna sandwich, chips and a PBR for the very low price of $6.00. Live music is featured seven days per week and Robert’s is proud of their “no cover charge ever” rule.
416B Broadway Street
Nashville, TN. 37203
(615)244-9552
Honky Tonk Central
This busy, 3-story bar is located in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Broadway Street. Honky Tonk Central is open 7 days per week and live music is always offered. If you need to host a bachelor or bachelorette party, Honky Tonk Central is the place. Special packages are offered for these special groups and are charged on a per person basis. For $75.00 per person, your party can receive 3 hours of open bar, light appetizers and a VIP Balcony for your group.
A full menu is offered and features typical bar fare. Some items include Frito Chili Pie, Philly Cheesesteak, Caesar Salad and Buffalo Chicken Wraps.
329 Broadway Street
Nashville, TN. 37201
(615)742-9095
Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar
If Blues is your passion, be sure to check out the Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar for a New Orleans themed experience. Once named the Boots Randolph Carousel Club, the bar features a neon sign, glowing, to guide your way to this unique experience. Over 100 blues artists have played on the state at the Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar.
Do you love Creole and Cajun food? Cold beer and a good time? If so, don’t miss this gem. Featuring Voodoo Wings, Shrimp and Crawfish Etouffee, Shrimp Po’ Boys and Pecan Pie, you better bring an empty stomach to this party. Dozens of beers are offered and cocktails like the Satsuma Hurricane, Printers Alley Punch and the NOLA Sweet Tea.
220 Printers Alley
Nashville, TN. 37201
(615)242-5837
www.bourbonstreetbluesandboogiebar.com
The Stage on Broadway
If you’re in the market for a rowdy evening in a dive bar atmosphere, the Stage on Broadway is the place to be. The likes of many country outlaws have played the Stage including Hank Williams Jr, Toby Keith, Gretchen Wilson and Jamey Johnson. Several music videos have been filmed at The Stage, such as Band in the Window by Pam Tillis. Gwenyth Paltrow and Tim McGraw’s hit film County Strong was partially filmed at the Stage as well. Current country artists have been known to drop in and sing an impromptu song for the crowd.
The Stage on Broadway boasts two stories of incredible music and views. You never have to worry about a cover charge at this neighborhood watering hole. Ice cold beer is always available to go along with your good time.
No food is offered at the Stage. Be sure to check out one of the many nearby restaurants before hitting up this classic bar.
412 Broadway Street
Nashville, TN. 37203
(615)726-0504
Depending on the amount of time you have, you may want to map out a plan before you hit the town. You may be more of a “fly by the seat of your pants” type of person; and that’s completely okay! Get out there and experience all that Nashville has to offer. Grab your favorite designated driver or utilize one of many available driving services like Lyft or Uber. Check out the many fine restaurants in the area before your night of exploring and discovery.
I hope that our list has given you some inspiration for your next night out in Nashville, TN. Whether you are a new resident or a visitor to this beautiful, Southern city, you are sure to find an amazing evening awaiting you. Whatever you choose to do while in Nashville, this amazing city is sure to leave a lasting memory for years to come.
