Sometimes you need a break from the honky tonks of Broadway while visiting Music City. From theme bars to places with the perfect lived-in feel, the best dive bars in Nashville cover the gamut.
Planning a night out in the city? Try these best dive bars in Nashville instead.
Best dive bars in Nashville, Tennessee
How do these rankings work?
1. Santa’s Pub
This double-wide trailer is completely decked out in holiday–and of course Santa–decorations. They’re easily among the most popular (and legendary) dives in Nashville. Go for the cheap beer and stay for the karaoke.
2. Wilburn Street Tavern
This barebones dive has plenty of seating, a pool table and good drink deals. It isn’t fancy, but the staff is friendly and helpful and the atmosphere is always laid-back. Take a seat and order a beer for an easy-going drink.
3. Dino’s Bar
Dino’s is the oldest dive in East Nashville and serves up great sandwiches and fries alongside their drinks. The drinks are cold and priced-well, and the outdoor seating is ample too. This neighbourhood staple is the place to go for a good time and an even better crowd of folks.
4. Turn One Bar
This no-frills dive is a local’s haunt. It’s the place to watch the game–especially if you’re a Tennessee fan, naturally. The drinks are cheap and cold, and shots are served up in little recyclable ramekins. Take one or two before you hit the mic for karaoke.
5. The Villager Tavern
Tucked between Belmont and Vanderbilt Universities, this dive has been around for more than 40 years. There’s a dart league, a good beer selection and pretty great sandwiches for when alcohol-induced hunger hits you. Step into a local tradition here.
6. Duke’s
Dukes is known for two things, really: its deli counter and its drink specials. They have staple boilermakers that make for a great last-call option, but when the bar closes, make sure you’ve put your order in at the deli counter. They serve up amazing sandwiches with excellent vegetarian options too.
The crowd is younger here, but it’s worth the visit.
7. Fran’s East Side
This might the last true dive in Nashville. The atmosphere is smokey, there’s pool and karaoke, and everyone who visits immediately feels like a regular. Go for the drinks and stay for the down-home good time. If you’re sensitive to smoke, perhaps skip this one.
