Nashville is one of the fastest growing cities in the country. So it makes sense that there are new bars and restaurants popping up here all the time! Not to downplay the explosion of celebrity honky tonks, but there are also plenty of places to get good cocktails off of Lower Broadway. So many, that we thought we’d update our earlier post with some more #tipsypick gems we found #offthetipsypath right in downtown Nashville.
You know we love a good speakeasy… and while it’s not a big secret (there’s almost always a wait) Hidden Bar in the Noelle Hotel downtown is one of the best in town. Not only is the location authentic – storage closet anyone? – but they go above and beyond with their holiday themes. Halloween 2023 was “The Shining” and Christmas was “A Christmas Story.” Such a fun way to spend an hour or two! But seriously, plan on putting your name on the list and visiting another bar while you wait – Black Rabbit is around the corner, and see below for another option . . .
Speaking of nearby bars, just down the street from Hidden Bar, Sinatra Bar & Lounge is another #tipsypick in downtown Nashville! Part cocktail spot, part restaurant and part jazz lounge, Sinatra has it all if you want to feel like you are as far away from a honky tonk as you can get. The cocktails are superb, with an emphasis on Frank’s favorite Jack Daniel’s, and they pair well with the live jazz most evenings. Note the artwork, some of which is from Sinatra’s own hand. The entire concept has been blessed by the Sinatra family. This is a great date night spot.
Did someone say date night? House of Cards has you covered! From the same team that brought us Skull’s Rainbow Room and Sinatra, this is another spot just steps away from Broadway but a world away as far as experiences. It’s a basement speakeasy under the Johnny Cash Museum. Yes, there’s a dress code! But they have live magicians in the bar and dining area, and live magic shows nightly. No, you can’t take pictures of the performers. Look for the artifacts like handcuffs owned by Houdini! Oh, the wine and cocktails are worth it as well – the house Manhattan and Old Fashioned for sure!
And since we’re talking about basement spaces – we bring you Pushing Daisies! This tequila and margarita spot isn’t exactly hidden. It has its own entrance from Broadway and is located under the sprawling Assembly Food Hall complex. But the atmosphere is fantastic – festive and intimate at the same time. And the drinks… way more than just great margaritas! The sangria was excellent and let’s talk about “Something Clarified, Please.” This cocktail requires an explanation from the professionals. Basically, it involves soaking bananas and washing mezcal with coconut. Don’t ask us… just try it for yourself! You’ll thank us!
Here’s one from the “you have to look for it” category. Pullman Standard occupies a space in the historic Cummins Station building with an entrance on Demonbreun Street. It’s #offthetipsypath unless you walk or drive past it. But it’s worth seeking out. This intimate cocktail space is perfect for a cocktail after work or just to hang out for a few. Their version of a black Manhattan known as the “Midnight Train” is very tasty!
Sometimes, presentation is everything. We visited the restaurant Hand Cut recently, where one drink in particular stood out – the Waffle Cone Old Fashioned! Unlike some smoked drinks that are just infused with wood chips, this one had a bottle of smoke all its own with a side of waffle cone in its own container. This relatively new chop house also has great food, but it’s worth a visit just for this cocktail. #tipsypick
And finally, we’ll give a shout out to one of our favorite East Nashville spots, the wine bar Authentique, celebrating one year with new owners in the same spot. They are a #tipsypick for food, wine and atmosphere. Check them out!
No doubt we’ll be visiting more #tipsypicks in Nashville. Let us know where we should go next!
