The Complete Guide to Nashville Speakeasies: 14 Unmissable Hidden Gems

Best speakeasy in Nashville
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    Discover the Hidden Charm of Speakeasy Nashville

    Pouring amber liquid from a shaker into a glass with ice and a twisted lemon peel garnish
    Photo by Adam Jaime on Unsplash

    Welcome to Nashville, where the nightlife is as rich and exciting as its history. If you’re a first-time visitor, you might have heard whispers about the city’s secret speakeasies—hidden bars that offer an experience like no other. These clandestine spots harken back to the Prohibition era but have evolved into modern-day sanctuaries for artisan drinks, live music, and a unique atmosphere.

    TL;DR: Your Quick Guide to the Best Speakeasies in Music City

    • The Patterson House: Elegant and sophisticated, with a blend of classic and innovative cocktails.
    • Attaboy: Secretive spot with a no-menu policy, serving custom cocktails based on your preferences.
    • Old Glory: Industrial decor paired with creative and smoky cocktails.
    • The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club: Elegant atmosphere featuring seasonal cocktails and themed events.
    • Urban Cowboy: Rustic charm in a historic mansion with expertly crafted cocktails.
    • Tiger Bar: Relaxed vibe with inventive gin-based drinks.
    • Skulls Rainbow Room: Vintage venue known for live jazz and burlesque performances.
    • Hidden Bar at Noelle: Exclusive spot inside one of the city’s best hotels
    • Red Phone Booth: Entrance via a vintage phone booth offering classic cocktails with a unique twist.
    • Never Never: Laid-back environment with inventive cocktails and occasional live music.
    • Bar Sovereign: Cozy atmosphere featuring art shows and live music.
    • Black Rabbit: Modern decor with live jazz, a perfect spot for happy hour.
    • Coral Club: Tropical decor and relaxed atmosphere ideal for a chill evening.
    • One More Cocktail Club: Chic and intimate setting with elegant cocktails, perfect for a green hour gathering.

    What is a Speakeasy?

    Cocktail in a glass with herbs and spices on a wooden tray, dimly lit background
    Photo by Ash Edmonds on Unsplash

    The History of Speakeasies

    Origins in the Prohibition Era

    Speakeasies originated during the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933), a time when the sale, production, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were illegal. These hidden bars were often tucked away in basements, behind unmarked doors, or in secret rooms. They became gathering places for those seeking a drink and a good time away from the prying eyes of the law.

    Evolution to Modern-Day Speakeasies

    Today, speakeasies have returned, offering a nostalgic yet contemporary twist on the clandestine drinking experience. They retain the allure of secrecy and exclusivity, often requiring passwords or reservations, and feature bespoke cocktails crafted with precision and flair.

    Why Visit a Speakeasy in Nashville?

    Unique Atmosphere

    A craft cocktail bar in Nashville offers a unique atmosphere that combines the charm of the past with modern comforts. Think dim lighting, vintage decor, and an intimate setting to unwind and enjoy a carefully crafted cocktail.

    Craft Cocktails and Mixology

    If you appreciate expertly crafted cocktails, Nashville’s speakeasies are a must-visit. Expert mixologists use high-quality spirits, fresh ingredients, and innovative techniques to create drinks that are as delicious as Instagram-worthy. Many mixologists draw on spirits from local distilleries to craft their signature cocktails.

    Live Music and Entertainment

    Nashville is known as Music City for a reason. Many speakeasies feature live music, from jazz and blues to contemporary tunes, providing a perfect backdrop for your night out.

    Top Speakeasies to Visit in Nashville

    A bearded bartender with glasses hands a cocktail to a customer at a bottle-adorned bar
    Photo by Hybrid Storytellers on Unsplash

    1. The Patterson House

    Address: 1711 Division St, Nashville, TN 37203

    Website: http://thepattersonnashville.com/

    Neighborhood Location: Midtown

    Located in Midtown, The Patterson House offers a sophisticated atmosphere with comfortable seating, dim lighting, and vintage decor. Enjoy an intimate setting, creative cocktails, and friendly service for a memorable night.

    Signature Cocktails

    The Patterson House offers an extensive drink menu featuring classics and innovative concoctions. Don’t miss their Old Fashioned, the Nobody’s Poet cocktail with Brandy, or the Best Foot Forward cocktail with Gin. In search of delicious mocktails? Our mixologist has you covered with beverages that are as creative as they are delightful.

    Insider Tips

    Arrive early to avoid long wait times, as this place fills up quickly. Reservations are no longer accepted; they are now first come, first served.

    Dimly lit bar with liquor bottles, a mirror, chandelier, and leather bar stools
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    Cozy, dimly lit bar with leather stools, liquor shelves, and a brass chandelier
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    2. Attaboy

    Address: 8 McFerrin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206

    Website: https://attaboy.us/visit-us-1

    Neighborhood Location: East Nashville

    In East Nashville, Attaboy keeps the spirit of secrecy alive with its unmarked entrance and no-menu policy. Tell the bartender your preferences and how you feel for the night, and they’ll whip up a drink tailored just for you. The interior exudes class, featuring dim lighting (but not too dark!) and a stylish 1960s/70s Southwestern vibe.

    Personalized Drink Experience

    At Attaboy, you can expect a personalized drink experience. The skilled bartenders will ask about your flavor preferences and create a customized cocktail just for you. Everything is on the table here; let the mixologist work their magic.

    What to Expect

    There’s often a wait, given its popularity, but the experience is well worth it. Attaboy operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared to enjoy a drink outside while you wait.

    Cozy bar with patrons at the counter, shelves of alcohol, and warm light bulbs hanging from the ceiling
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    3. Old Glory

    Address: 1200 Villa Place, Suite 103, Nashville, TN 37212

    Website: https://www.oldglorynashville.com/

    Neighborhood Location: Edgehill

    Housed in a former boiler room, Old Glory boasts high ceilings, exposed brick, and industrial decor, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere.

    Popular Drink Selections

    Old Glory is known for its innovative cocktails and extensive whiskey selection. Try the “Smoke & Mirrors” for a smoky, mezcal-based delight. Some of our other favorites include the Espresso Martini, Old Fashioned, and French 75.

    Best Times to Visit

    Weekdays are less crowded, making them the perfect time to enjoy a more relaxed experience. If you find yourself in the neighborhood, don’t miss out on Bella Napoli Pizzeria—one of our all-time favorite spots for delicious pizza!

    Industrial bar with exposed brick, metal pipes, concrete features, and ambient lighting
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    Industrial bar with exposed brick, metal pipes, concrete, a long counter, barstools, ambient lighting, and stairs to an upper level
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    4. The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club

    Address: 2905B Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216

    Website: https://www.thefoxnashville.com/

    Neighborhood Location: East Nashville

    Nestled in East Nashville (aka the hotspot for top local bars), The Fox boasts elegant decor, cozy vibes, and an intimate and dark setting reminiscent of pre-probation times. The entrance is somewhat hidden, located behind Nicoletta’s Italian Kitchen. Reservations are often necessary and can be made online, as the limited seats fill up quickly.

    Creative Cocktails

    While they offer many original cocktail favorites, their world-renowned mixologist can elevate any classic cocktail to the next level.  Their menu changes with the seasons, featuring fresh and creative drinks year-round. Our favorites include the MCM Old Fashioned, Snowfall On Nakatomi Plaza, and the Maybe She’s Born With It.

    Unparalleled Experiences

    Spend an afternoon with one of their senior bartenders, combining education and fun. Enjoy three expertly crafted cocktails while discovering the history of spirits, trade secrets, and how to recreate your favorite drinks at home. Choose from their signature Cocktail Experience, Agave Experience, or Tiki Experience.

    Three drinks on a wooden table: one with a dried orange and cherry, one with a large ice cube, and one with a purple hue and berries

    Modern bar with a black counter, high stools, spherical lights, and shelves stocked with bottles and glassware
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    5. Urban Cowboy

    Address: 1603 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206

    Website: https://urbancowboy.com/nashville/

    Neighborhood Location: East Nashville

    Urban Cowboy Nashville is a boutique hotel in a historic mansion that seamlessly combines rustic charm and modern elegance. Each uniquely designed suite offers a cozy escape, while the Parlor Wine Bar entertains with nightly live music. The Public House features a relaxed atmosphere, serving craft cocktails and delectable food, fostering a sense of community among guests. Enjoy their indoor and outdoor areas, with fire pits and comfortable and cozy seating.

    Insider Tips

    Urban Cowboy offers an intimate setting perfect for a romantic evening or retreat. Their uniquely designed luxury hotel rooms make for an ideal weekend getaway. We also love Roberta’s Pizza, which started as a pop-up and now has a permanent home, serving Brooklyn-inspired wood-fired pizza.

    Rustic bar with wooden stools, shelves of bottles, and lantern-style lights
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    Cozy music-themed living room with a fireplace, musical instruments, artwork, a cow skull, leather seating, and wooden floors
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    6. Tiger Bar

    Address: 2909 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216

    Website: https://www.tigerbarnashville.com/

    Neighborhood Location: East Nashville

    Situated in East Nashville, this 1930s-inspired gin joint is the brainchild of the team behind House of Cards, one of Nashville’s premier fine dining establishments. Featuring circus-themed decor and a classic cocktail menu, Tiger Bar transports guests to a bygone era with its timeless charm.

    At Tiger Bar, you can enjoy expertly crafted martinis, sparkling wines, gin, cognac, and other vintage drinks. The ambiance is glamorous, but the bar encourages dressy casual attire—so you can dress to impress.

    Signature Cocktails

    Their cocktail menu features a mix of classic and inventive drinks. Try the “Cotton Candy Negroni,” “Snake [Oil] Charmer,” and “Beneath the Cards.”

    Insider Tips

    Tiger Bar, like House of Cards, enforces a strict dress code. While cocktail attire is suggested but not mandatory, baseball caps and flip-flops are strictly prohibited.

    7. Skulls Rainbow Room

    Address: 222 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN 37219, United States

    Website: https://www.skullsrainbowroom.com/

    Neighborhood Location: Downtown

    Skulls Rainbow Room is a historic venue located in the famous Printers Alley. It offers a unique blend of old-school charm and modern sophistication. The venue also hosts live music, burlesque shows, and a food menu that shouldn’t be overlooked.

    Signature Cocktails

    Their cocktail menu features a mix of classic and innovative drinks. Don’t miss “The Duke,” crafted with Duke Bourbon, Sage, Tobacco Bitters, Angostura Bitters, and Lemon. Choose between the Standard: Old Forester 86 or the Premium: Buffalo Trace.

    Insider Tips

    Skulls Rainbow Room often hosts live jazz and burlesque shows, adding lively entertainment to your visit. The burlesque show starts at 11 pm, standing room only, with a $20 cover charge. Tip: Book a dinner reservation around 9 or 10 pm to get a table and skip the fee.

    Neon-lit alley with a "Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar" sign, string lights, and brick buildings
    Photo by Brandon Jean on Unsplash

    8. Hidden Bar at Noelle

    Address: 200 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219, United States

    Website: https://www.noelle-nashville.com/eat-and-drink

    Neighborhood Location: Downtown

    Located in the basement of one of our favorite Broadway hotels, Noelle, Hidden Bar provides an exclusive and intimate setting, ideal for a fun night out.  To locate Noelle, inquire at the front desk of the Makeshift L&L restaurant. It can be found through a hidden door in the vicinity.

    Themed Signature Cocktails

    Their cocktail menu is curated to match the bar’s seasonal themes and film-inspired pop-ups with themed drinks. Drinks change based on the season, including pop-ups such as Christmas Story, The Shinning, Home Alone, and many more throughout the year.

    Dimly lit bar with colorful background, whimsical lights, oversized mushrooms, and festive decor
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    Modern bar with a long counter, high chairs, and shelves stocked with various bottles of alcohol in a dimly lit setting.
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    9. Red Phone Booth

    Address: 136 Rosa L Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203

    Website: https://redphonebooth.com/nashville/

    Neighborhood Location: Downtown

    True to its name, Red Phone Booth features a vintage phone booth entrance that exudes an air of mystery and exclusivity. This intriguing entrance hides a concealed doorway behind it, ensuring a unique experience. To gain access, guests must secure a secret phone number. Nestled in Downtown Nashville, this upscale cocktail lounge offers a warm ambiance while serving a delightful selection of Prohibition-era cocktails alongside modern favorites.

    Signature Cocktails

    Dive into their cocktail menu, where classic charm meets creative flair! Don’t miss the “Smoked Old Fashion,” a timeless recipe from the 1880s that perfectly marries Four Roses Bourbon, La Perruche Sugar Cubes, and Angostura Bitters, all beautifully brightened with fresh citrus peel. Each drink is artfully smoked with hickory wood, delivering an exquisite symphony of smoky and sweet flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!

    Insider Tips

    To enter, you’ll need a secret code, which you can obtain by joining their membership program or staying at a partner hotel. If you’re not staying at a partner hotel, you can just walk into any of the many hotels on Broadway and ask the concierge for the code.

    Storefront with white brick exterior and a black door marked 136. A red phone booth is on the left side of the entrance.
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    Bartender at Red Phone Booth Nashville, ready to make drinks
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    10. Never Never

    Address: 413 Houston St Suite A, Nashville, TN 37203

    Website: https://www.nevernevernashville.com/

    Neighborhood Location: Wedgewood-Houston

    Located in the hip Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood, Never Never offers a laid-back atmosphere with minimalist decor within its indoor and outdoor areas and a welcoming vibe, perfect for a casual night out with your girlfriends.

    Signature Cocktails

    Their cocktail menu features a mix of classic and inventive drinks. Indulge in the refreshing “Georgia James,” a delightful blend of gin, watermelon, lime, Tabasco, and simple syrup—ideal for quenching your thirst on a hot summer day.

    11. Bar Sovereign

    Address: 514 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

    Website: https://www.barsovereign.com/

    Neighborhood Location: SoBro (South of Broadway)

    Looking for a refreshing change from the typical Broadway scenery? Bar Sovereign is located near all the action with a cozy atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for a night out with friends. It features unique decor and a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere, complete with a pool table, fireplace, and friendly bartenders who craft exceptional cocktails.

    Insider Tips

    Bar Sovereign frequently features a rotating selection of restaurants within its venue. Currently, it showcases Alebrije Tacos, serving authentic Mexican cuisine inspired by the vibrant streets of Mexico.

    12. Black Rabbit

    Address: 218 3rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201

    Website: https://www.blackrabbittn.com/

    Neighborhood Location: Downtown

    Black Rabbit offers a sleek, modern atmosphere with industrial decor and a bustling vibe, perfect for a night out in downtown Nashville. In contrast to some other speakeasies on this list, Black Rabbit stands out as a premier Nashville restaurant that offers an exceptional dining experience.

    Signature Cocktails

    The cocktail menu offers a delightful blend of classic and innovative drinks. Kush’s top pick is the Barrel Aged Old Fashioned, crafted with Buffalo Trace, demerara syrup, and Angostura bitters, then aged in-house for a rich flavor. Ana’s favorite is the Dressed To Kill, featuring 14 Heroes Vodka, fig-infused blanc vermouth, St. Germain elderflower liqueur, and grapefruit liqueur for a refreshing twist.

    Insider Tips

    Be sure to try the Rabbit Rolls, featuring house-made rabbit-pork spam, Swiss cheese, mustard, onions, and a sprinkle of poppy seeds.

    Cocktails on wooden surfaces with playing cards and coasters, against a dark background
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    13. The Coral Club

    Address: 604 Gallatin Ave #217, Nashville, TN 37206

    Website: https://thecoral.club/

    Neighborhood Location: East Nashville

    Coral Club is East Nashville’s newest rooftop bar. Its tropical decor and laid-back atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening out. Founded by four seasoned veterans of the hospitality and cocktail industries, this bar aims to cultivate a warm and welcoming atmosphere for both Nashville locals and visitors.

    Insider Tips

    happy Hour takes place daily from 5 PM to 7 PM, making it the perfect time to visit and beat the crowds, as parking tends to fill up quickly.

    14. One More Cocktail Club

    Address: 5055 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203

    Website: https://www.assemblyfoodhall.com/vendor/one-more-cocktail-club/

    Neighborhood Location: Downtown

    Tucked away on the third floor of Assembly Food Hall, one of our favorite dining spots on Broadway, One More Cocktail Club, shines with its chic and intimate ambiance. With elegant decor and a vibrant atmosphere, it offers an ideal setting for an enjoyable night out in downtown Nashville.

    Signature Cocktails

    Some of our favorite cocktails include the Billionaires Only, a delightful bourbon concoction, and the refreshing Millionaire’s Margarita, which we particularly enjoyed.

    Modern bar with marble countertop, gold barstools, purple-tiled wall, and copper ceiling
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    Tips for First-Time Visitors

    How to Find a Speakeasy in Nashville

    Look for Unmarked Entrances

    Speakeasies often have unmarked or discreet entrances, so look for hidden doors, basements, or phone booths.

    Use Social Media and Online Reviews

    Check social media and review sites for hints, passwords, and insider tips on finding the best speakeasies in town.

    Speakeasy Etiquette

    Dress Code Recommendations

    While not all speakeasies have a strict dress code, it’s always a good idea to dress smartly and casually—think stylish yet comfortable. For outfit ideas,  check out our article here.

    How to Order Like a Local

    Don’t be afraid to ask the bartender for recommendations or to create a bespoke cocktail based on your preferences.

    Making the Most of Your Visit

    Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds

    Speakeasies can get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot and a more relaxed experience.

    Engage with Bartenders for the Best Experience

    Bartenders at speakeasies are often skilled mixologists. Engage with them and ask for recommendations to get the most out of your visit.

    Explore Multiple Locations in One Night

    If you’re up for an adventure, try visiting multiple speakeasies in one night to experience the diverse atmospheres and drink offerings.

    Conclusion

    Two mojitos with mint and lime on a gray surface, surrounded by cut limes, ice, lemongrass, and a bottle of Havana Club rum
    Photo by Jennifer Schmidt on Unsplash

    Embrace the Magic of Speakeasies in Nashville

    Nashville’s speakeasies offer a unique and unforgettable experience that combines the charm of the past with modern-day flair. Whether you’re a fan of craft cocktails, live music, or enjoy discovering hidden gems, these speakeasies are a must-visit. In addition to speakeasies, Nashville boasts a variety of fun activities for adults, including rooftop bars, music festivals, and culinary tours

    The next time you visit town, make sure to include a visit to a speakeasy in your itinerary to fully immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. If you’re seeking a fantastic place to stay near these charming speakeasies, Nashville Luxury Stay has you covered. Explore our luxury vacation rentals for an unforgettable experience.

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    Meet Kush & Ana

    Nashville Enthusiasts

    We are Kush & Ana Ratwani. We moved to Nashville in 2020 for Kush’s fellowship at Vanderbilt. When we moved here, the once vibrant music city, full of aspiring songwriters trying to be the next Carrie Underwood and pedal taverns full of brides to be was in a state of hibernation due to COVID. However, that was short-lived, and Nashville is now back to full speed! 

    We have loved living in Nashville so much so over the last few years that we even got married here in 2021! We feel Nashville has so much to offer, and it would take months to experience everything. From boutique shops to James Beard award-winning restaurants, who can forget live music every night on Broadway?

    We started “Grits & Grace” to blog about all of our favorite spots, highlighting why we love Nashville and why we firmly believe it’s the best city in the country! 

    Let us be your local tour guides on your journey to the Music City. 

    Kush & Ana Ratwani

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