Bringing the Noise to Music City
As a self-proclaimed music aficionado, I’ve always felt a deep connection to Nashville. After all, this city has earned its reputation as the epicenter of the country music universe. But let me tell you, the live music scene in Music City extends way beyond the twangy tunes of the honky-tonks on Broadway.
If you’re like me and crave a more diverse musical palette, fear not – Nashville has an abundance of pubs and restaurants that showcase a wide range of local talent, from bluegrass virtuosos to jazz crooners to up-and-coming singer-songwriters. And let me tell you, these venues don’t just provide a stage for the performers; they also serve up some seriously delicious grub and creative cocktails to complement the aural experience.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Nashville and want to go beyond the typical tourist traps, read on as I take you on a tour of the best pubs for catching live music and local talent in this vibrant, music-loving city.
Janes Hideaway: Where Bluegrass Meets Bold Flavors
Let’s start our journey in the eclectic neighborhood of East Nashville, where you’ll find Janes Hideaway. What was once a staple in the historic Printers Alley has now found a new home in this up-and-coming area, and let me tell you, the vibe is just as lively as ever.
Janes Hideaway is the kind of place where upbeat performances centered around Americana roots or traditional bluegrass music kick off every night at 8 pm. And trust me, the menu is just as eclectic as the music, with original cocktails, French bubbly on tap, and a range of dishes that’ll make your mouth water – from beet salad and okra fries to chicken pot pie and beef tenderloin.
One of my favorite things about Janes is their commitment to showcasing local talent. On Tuesday nights, you can catch an Americana and roots songwriter showcase hosted by Grammy-winning artist Melody Walker, and the best part? No tickets required. It’s just pure, unadulterated musical bliss, paired with some seriously good eats.
Brooklyn Bowl: Where Bowling Meets Bluegrass
Now, if you’re in the mood for a little friendly competition with your live music, head on over to Brooklyn Bowl in the Germantown neighborhood. This place is a triple threat – part bowling alley, part music venue, and part eatery – and it’s quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The music here spans genres, from rock stars to folk singers to country darlings, and the venue requires tickets for shows. But trust me, it’s worth it to snag a seat and watch your favorite rising star take the stage. And while you’re at it, why not indulge in a fried chicken platter or a boozy milkshake in between frames?
One of the things I love about Brooklyn Bowl is the way it seamlessly blends high-energy entertainment with a laidback, community-driven vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can let loose, groove to the music, and maybe even impress your friends with your mad bowling skills.
Skulls Rainbow Room: Where Jazz and Steak Collide
If you’re in the mood for something a little more refined, then you simply must make your way to Skulls Rainbow Room, a legendary venue tucked away in the heart of Printers Alley.
This place has been an acclaimed destination since 1948, and for good reason. The intimate, basement setting is the perfect backdrop for the nightly live jazz performances, which have played host to some of the world’s most famous musicians, from Etta James to Paul McCartney to Elvis Presley.
But Skulls Rainbow Room is not just about the music – the food and drinks are equally impressive. The elevated steakhouse menu will have your taste buds doing the Charleston, and the cocktails? Well, let’s just say they’re the kind of libations that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the Prohibition era.
Now, I should warn you – reservations are a must at this place, as the intimate setting means space is limited. But trust me, the experience is well worth the effort. Just make sure to dress to impress, as this is the kind of joint where you’ll want to look your best.
Acme Feed & Seed: Nashville’s Triple Threat
If you’re looking for a true one-stop-shop for music, food, and drinks, then Acme Feed & Seed should be at the top of your list. This historic late-1800s building on the edge of Lower Broadway is a triple threat, with nightly live music, an expansive menu, and a rooftop that offers incredible views of the city.
The music at Acme spans genres, with performances taking place on multiple levels of the building, including a dedicated open-floor concert space. And the menu? Well, let’s just say it’s as diverse as the tunes, with everything from Nashville hot chicken to sushi to beers on tap to frozen cocktails.
One of the things I love most about Acme is that you don’t need tickets to enjoy the live music. It’s just a matter of grabbing a seat, ordering up a tasty bite and a refreshing beverage, and letting the talented local musicians transport you to another world.
And let’s not forget about that rooftop – it’s the perfect spot to soak in the vibrant energy of Music City while taking in the stunning skyline. Trust me, it’s the kind of view that’ll have you feeling like you’re on top of the world.
The Twelve Thirty Club: Where Prohibition-Era Elegance Meets Contemporary Cool
If you’re in the mood for a touch of old-world glamour with your live music, then you’ll want to make your way to The Twelve Thirty Club, a joint venture between Justin Timberlake and restaurateur Sam Fox.
This chic supper club, with its thoughtful decor reminiscent of the Prohibition era, has become a destination for live music and opulent dining at the top of Lower Broadway. The stage at the center of the room welcomes multiple sets per night, and the tunes from the soulful house band are the perfect complement to the expertly crafted cocktails and decadent dishes like the chilled seafood tower.
Now, I should mention that reservations are encouraged for the dining experience, but you can also snag a spot at the bar and soak in the music and ambiance. And let me tell you, the view from this rooftop perch is simply breathtaking – the perfect backdrop for a night of indulgence and musical discovery.
The Listening Room Cafe: Where Songwriters Take Center Stage
One of the things that sets Nashville apart as a music mecca is the abundance of talented songwriters who call this city home. And if you want to get up close and personal with the creative minds behind some of the biggest hits, then you’ll definitely want to check out The Listening Room Cafe.
This downtown venue places songwriters in the spotlight, with multiple rounds occurring throughout the day, so you can hear the behind-the-scenes stories and performances from the people who have penned some of music’s biggest hits. And let me tell you, it’s an experience that’ll have you walking away with a whole new appreciation for the art of songwriting.
Now, I should note that The Listening Room Cafe is a ticketed venue, but the food and beverage minimum is well worth it. From the pimento cheese and bacon jam crostinis to the shrimp and grits to the Tennessee cheesecake, the menu is a delicious complement to the musical journey.
So, if you’re looking to dive deeper into the creative heart of Nashville’s music scene, The Listening Room Cafe is a must-visit. Just make sure to grab your tickets early, as this place tends to sell out quickly.
The Station Inn: Where Bluegrass Dreams Come True
For more than 40 years, the Station Inn has been the beating heart of bluegrass and Americana music in Nashville. Located in the Gulch neighborhood, this storied venue has a menu that’s a noteworthy mix of Southern fare and concessions-stand favorites, but what really sets it apart is its commitment to creating opportunities for curious, up-and-coming musicians.
On Sundays, anyone with a bluegrass instrument is invited to join in the free Bluegrass Jam, and the venue even offers Jam Classes with professional instructors. It’s the kind of place that’s just as welcoming to seasoned veterans as it is to wide-eyed newbies, and the energy is always electric.
Now, I’ll admit, most events at the Station Inn require tickets, but trust me, it’s worth the investment to experience the raw, unadulterated joy of live bluegrass music. And who knows, you might just end up jamming along with the pros – now, that’s the kind of Nashville experience that’ll have you returning home with some serious bragging rights.
3rd & Lindsley: Where Southern Fare Meets Eclectic Sounds
If you’re in the mood for some enticing Southern bar food and a diverse array of live music, then 3rd & Lindsley should be on your radar. This downtown venue sells general admission tickets for its live shows, and the seating is first-come, first-served, so be sure to arrive early if you want to snag a prime spot.
The music here spans genres, from cover bands to singer-songwriters, but there’s one act that’s got a standing Monday night show for a reason: the Time Jumpers. Trust me, you’ll want to mark that down on your calendar if you’re planning a trip to Music City.
As for the food, well, let’s just say it’s the perfect complement to the eclectic tunes. From chili cheese nachos to gumbo, the menu is a delicious representation of the city’s vibrant culinary scene. And let’s not forget the drinks – because, let’s be honest, no trip to a Nashville pub is complete without a refreshing cocktail or cold beer in hand.
Rudy’s Jazz Room: Where Jazz and New Orleans Flair Collide
If you’re looking to break away from the country music scene and immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of jazz, then Rudy’s Jazz Room is the place for you. This traditional club, located in a deviation from downtown’s predominantly country music venues, has been carefully designed with acoustics and ambiance in mind, creating a detail-rich, sultry listening room with a swingin’ atmosphere.
In addition to the nightly live jazz performances, Rudy’s serves up Prohibition-inspired signature and classic cocktails, as well as cuisine with a distinct New Orleans flair, like red beans and rice, gumbo, beignets, and even a crawfish grilled cheese. It’s the kind of place where you can’t help but tap your toes and lose yourself in the sultry melodies.
Now, I should mention that you may need to pay a cover charge at the door, but trust me, it’s well worth it to experience the magic of Rudy’s Jazz Room. Just make sure to dress to impress – this is the kind of joint where you’ll want to channel your inner Gatsby.
The Electric Jane: Where Swank Meets Soulful Sounds
If you’re in the mood for a more modern, eclectic vibe, then you’ll definitely want to check out The Electric Jane, a welcome newcomer to the Gulch neighborhood. This swanky dining and entertainment club offers a diverse lineup of performances, ranging from rock to jazz, and the food and drink menu is just as impressive.
From clever cocktails and local beers to a robust menu featuring everything from shrimp cocktail and raw oysters to roasted chicken and tableside s’mores, The Electric Jane knows how to deliver a truly memorable experience. And with reservations highly encouraged, you can rest assured that you’ll have a front-row seat to the musical magic.
One of the things I love most about this place is the way it seamlessly blends modern sophistication with a laid-back, welcoming vibe. It’s the kind of spot where you can dress to the nines and sip on a perfectly crafted martini, or keep it casual and still enjoy the incredible live tunes and delectable eats.
The Bluebird Cafe: Where Songwriting Legends Are Born
No list of the best pubs for live music in Nashville would be complete without a mention of the iconic Bluebird Cafe. This intimate venue, tucked away in an unassuming strip mall in Green Hills, has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of some of the biggest names in the music industry, from Taylor Swift to Garth Brooks to Keith Urban.
At the Bluebird, the focus is squarely on local songwriters, with two shows nightly ranging from “In the Round” performances to open mic nights. And while the ticket and reservation requirements vary by show, the experience is always worth the effort. Grab a seat, order a local brew and some delicious cafe fare like crudités, a turkey club, or chicken tenders, and get ready to be transported by the raw, unadulterated talent on display.
One of the things that makes the Bluebird so special is the sense of community and reverence that permeates the space. It’s the kind of place where you can feel the history and the passion of the music pulsing through the walls, and it’s an experience that’ll leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of songwriting.
Kimbro’s Pickin’ Parlor: Where Southern Charm Meets Musical Bliss
If you’re willing to venture a bit beyond the bustling streets of downtown Nashville, you’ll be richly rewarded with a visit to Kimbro’s Pickin’ Parlor in the charming town of Franklin, just a few miles south of the city.
This off-the-beaten-path venue, housed inside a historic home and accented by a Southern front porch (perfect for “pickin’ instruments, naturally), has transformed the interior into a bar, a restaurant serving everything from pizza to burgers, and a stage where live music and jam sessions happen nightly. While you don’t need tickets in advance, Kimbro’s may charge a nominal cover, so be sure to plan accordingly.
One of the things I love most about Kimbro’s is the way it seamlessly blends the local, intimate vibe of a small-town establishment with the musical prowess you’d expect from a Nashville haunt. The food is the kind of hearty, comforting fare that’ll have you feeling right at home, while the live performances, ranging from up-and-coming artists to Leipers Fork’s legendary residents, will leave you utterly spellbound.
So, if you’re in the mood to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in a truly authentic Music City experience, make sure to add Kimbro’s Pickin’ Parlor to your itinerary.
Fox & Locke: Where Comfort Food Meets Country Charm
Speaking of venturing beyond the bright lights of downtown Nashville, you’ll also want to make a stop in the charming town of Leipers Fork, where Fox & Locke is serving up live music and comfort food in a converted 1950s grocery store.
This place is a favorite among local celebrities like Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, and Faith Hill, and it’s easy to see why. The Thursday open mic night often sells out weeks in advance, as the event welcomes anyone from budding artists to Leipers Fork’s
