The Essential Guide to Speakeasies in Nashville, TN
You’ll never struggle to find someplace to grab a drink in Nashville. However, sometimes you may want to go somewhere different… somewhere more exclusive… somewhere that’s maybe even hidden and requires a password, perhaps? While prohibition is long behind us, speakeasies have been making a return to modern-day cocktail culture. Just because you don’t need to hide from the law to have a drink doesn’t mean that going out for one can’t be an experience, and Nashville is a city full of experiences. So let’s get our secret passwords ready and dive into the best speakeasies in Nashville.
Pushing Daisies
570 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
(615) 988-5055
Home of the “underground margaritas,” Pushing Daisies is a tequila-forward cocktail bar that, amongst other things, features new tequila takes on the traditional whiskey sour. Every drink is crafted with top-shelf ingredients to ensure you enjoy the peak drinking experience. From the upscale interior design to the patrons that pack the place out every night, everything about this place feels luxurious. There aren’t many places like Pushing Daisies, and you know what? That’s a good thing. It makes coming here so much better.
Attaboy
8 Mcferrin Avenue, Nashville, TN 37206
Attaboy has garnered quite a reputation in New York City. In fact, it’s been nominated for a James Beard Award. Thankfully the geniuses behind this fascinating spot decided to open another location in Nashville, and it doesn’t disappoint. Tucked away in a nondescript cinderblock building down an alleyway, you’ll find the entrance. A gentle knock is all that’s required to get in. Once you do, you’ll be quizzed by the bartender about your drink preferences, and then they’ll create a unique cocktail just for you. The blue velvet booths make for a comfy and relaxing vibe. This is what having cocktails should be.
Never Never
413 Houston Street, Nashville, TN 37203
Never Never isn’t exactly hidden, but it’s not easy to find either. Tucked away in a former welding shop near some railroad tracks, it’s unassuming, and if you don’t know the way, it’s easy to get lost. That’s all part of the experience, though. Once you find the door and go inside, you’ll be treated to deliciously original cocktails that aren’t expensive at all. The bar itself is moody and dimly lit, and the outdoor patio feels like you’re hanging out in the backyard. There isn’t much by way of food, just some small bites to hold you over while you’re having a great time hanging out with friends. You’ll never never find yourself not wanting to come back after you’ve found this wonderful place.
Hidden Bar
200 4th Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37219
Located beneath the Noelle Hotel downtown, Hidden Bar isn’t just a name, it’s a fact. They’ve made it intentionally hard to find, but that’s all part of the fun. The door to get in is unassuming, and unless you worked for the hotel, you’d probably never know that it was even there, never mind walking through it. Once you make your way through it, Hidden Bar will transport you to someplace else. They routinely stage thematic pop-ups that include specialty decor and drinks lists. They also offer large-format drinks that are perfect for sharing with a few friends. Hidden Bar is definitely worth looking for.
Skull’s Rainbow Room
222 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN 37201
With the exception of a few years, Skull’s Rainbow Room has been a pillar of Nashville cocktail culture since 1948. Since it most recently reopened, the bar has revived its old-school ambiance with nightly jazz and burlesque shows. The cocktails are served from a gorgeous and ornate wooden bar. When it comes to food options, you’ll struggle to find better. The chophouse menu on offer is impeccable and helps bring the whole experience together. Trust us, you’ll be back.
Old Glory
1200 Villa Place, Suite 103, Nashville, TN 37212
This hideaway in Edgehill Village is housed within what used to be the boiler room of a former steam-cleaning business. Once you head down the alley behind Taco Mamacita, you’ll find a black door within a giant gilt triangle. Head down the ornate gold-railed staircase, and you’ll find yourself in this neo-industrial chic space. Old Glory embraces the building that it is located within, and that’s what makes its vibes so immaculate. The Soler sisters are mixology savants, and their cocktails are nothing short of impeccable. Every ingredient is garden fresh, and you can taste the difference. Treat yourself to some homemade empanadas while you’re at it and relax as you enjoy one of the finest speakeasy experiences around.
Bar Sovereign
514 Rep. John Lewis Way South, Nashville, TN 37203
Nestled amongst the heights of the buildings of SoBro, you’ll find your run-of-the-mill strip mall. If you look closely, you’ll find a small golden plaque. It’s easy to miss if you don’t know what you’re looking for. This marks the entrance to the wonderfully eclectic Bar Sovereign. Inside you’ll find a mixture of interesting artwork adorning the walls and a sculpture made from a disassembled piano. The drink menu features unique yet affordable cocktails that are hard to find in an area full of tourist traps.
Minerva Ave
1002 Buchanan Street, Nashville, TN 37208
(615) 973-0962
Minerva Ave stands by the motto, “It is not what you wear but how you wear it.” Aside from knocking on the door to get inside, you’ll also need to dress for the occasion. Minerva Ave strives to curate the best possible experience for its patrons, and that requires the patrons to play a part. You won’t get in looking like a slob. For good reason, too this place sets the bar high when it comes to the cocktail experience. Inside you’ll find comfy booths and dramatic lighting. Outside you can relax on their outdoor deck, which features fire pits and cabanas. Each night features a different type of music, so you’re always in for a new experience. It’s no wonder that Minerva Ave is one of the best spots in all of Nashville.
Red Phone Booth
136 Rosa L Parks Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37203
(615) 915-3876
You’ll never guess where the entrance to this place is located. But just because you found it doesn’t mean you’re getting in. You’ll need to ring the correct code (which is always changing) in order to get access to this speakeasy. If you know a member, they can provide it to you, if not, ask around the local hotels, and you’ll find someone with the correct password. Once inside, you’ll feel like you’re in the 1920s. Craft cocktails, cigars, and Neapolitan pizzas will have you eating, drinking, and smoking the night away. Make sure you dress properly, though. Men should have collared shirts, and ladies should avoid athleisure. It all builds into the vibe; trust us, it’s worth it.
The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club
2905B Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216
The Fox’s bartenders are on a whole different level, so much so that their modern takes on classic cocktails have seen them win national awards. Because of that, you can be certain that no matter what you order, simple or not, it’s going to be one of the best drinks you’ve ever had. If you want a next-level cocktail experience, you can book a private tasting session. The vibes are cozy and relaxed, and the menu is always changing with the seasons to ensure that the ingredients are locally sourced and fresh. No matter what, you can always experience something new at The Fox, and it will always be delightful.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city, check out our Nashville page, here!
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