How to Spend a Night Out in Nashville: My Local Itinerary
I moved to Nashville when I was 22, wide-eyed and ready for whatever this city had to offer. Ten years later, the skyline is taller and the traffic is definitely heavier, but the nightlife? It’s arguably the best it’s ever been.
The city has transformed from a one-street honky-tonk town into a world-class culinary and cocktail destination. Whether you’re looking for high-end glamour or a gritty dive with heart, after a decade of "research," I’ve narrowed down the ultimate Nashville night out.
The Kickoff: Dinner with Drinks
When it’s time to start the night, I usually head straight to M Street. If I’m in the mood for vibrant energy and the best tacos in the city, Saint Añejo is the move. If I want to level up the sophistication, Kayne Prime offers a chic steakhouse vibe that never misses.
I have lots of fond memories in The Gulch, and at Sunda. Their "New Asian" menu is incredible, and the atmosphere is exactly what you want for a night that feels intentional and stylish. I went there for a child’s birthday party, and the babe chef brought out her birthday desert. It made the whole night. Especially for someone who hasn’t tried a lot of asian food, this variety menu is gourmet and well presented.
My Favorite Nashville Restaraunt: Skull’s Rainbow Room
If you want a side of history with your martini, you have to go to Skull’s Rainbow Room in Printers Alley. It’s my favorite spot for live jazz and world-class burlesque. The secret menu ingredient? The wild history. The original owner, David "Skull" Schulman, was a local icon until his tragic murder in the late '90s—a story so notorious it was featured on America’s Most Wanted. Today, the spirit of the old school remains, making it one of the most atmospheric rooms in the South.
The Strategy: Hotel Hopping & Rooftop Vibe
Nashville has mastered the "Hotel Hop." Each boutique hotel hides a different treasure. I love starting at The Noelle for their "Hidden Bar," then swinging by The Graduate for some Dolly-inspired pink-and-plaid whimsy. The Thompson’s rooftop, L.A. Jackson, is still the gold standard for people-watching in the Gulch.
For something ultra-modern, the newly opened 1 Hotel Nashville has a rooftop called Harriet’s that is lush, hip, and has some of the best skyline views in town.
Pro Tip: For my last birthday, I went to Bourbon Steak on the roof of the JW Marriott. Not only was the steak life-changing, but Green Day was eating at the table next to us!
Pace Yourself: Weather & "The Sugar Trap"
If you take one piece of advice from a ten-year veteran, let it be this: Pace yourself. Nashville is the kind of city that requires a strategy.
Respect the Elements: Our weather is extreme. Whether it’s a humid 95-degree July afternoon or a damp, freezing January night, it’s easy to get out of balance if you’re drinking too much in the heat or cold. Stay hydrated.
Watch the Sugar: Nashville bars love a "fruity and funny" shot. From Lemon Drops to those viral "Capri Sun" pouches, the sugar content is sky-high. Trust me, those sweet shooters will have you hurting long before the sun comes up.
The Food Rule: If you’re feeling the effects of those shooters, remember that Tennessee law actually requires bars to serve food (either as a "Restaurant" or a "Limited Service Restaurant"). Any bar you're in will have a menu, so don't skip the snacks.
The Low-Key Locals' Picks
When I want to escape the tourists, I head to The Nations or East Nashville.
Otto’s: This place is a total vibe. It’s a mid-century modern bar in a former mechanic’s office off Charlotte Pike. They have the best tacos in town.
Red Door: For that classic "dive bar rocker" feel, Red Door is the perennial favorite for locals who want a night that doesn't feel curated for Instagram.
The most exciting thing about living here for a decade is that the city is still surprising me. New spots are popping up so fast you genuinely need to keep a list on your phone to keep track. You could try a new one every week and still never see it all.
The most exciting thing about living here for a decade is that the city is still surprising me. New spots are popping up so fast you genuinely need to keep a list on your phone to keep track. You could try a new one every week and still never see it all.