Dive Bars That are Not on Broadway: Your Ultimate Nashville Experience

Ever heard of Nashville's dive bars beyond Broadway? Yes, there’s life outside of honky-tonk heaven. Let’s get real—these aren’t your flashy, neon-lit spots on Broadway, but they’ve got character, cheap beer, and, oh, some unforgettable stories to tell.

1. Santa’s Pub

Kicking things off with one of Nashville’s true gems: Santa’s Pub. It’s like stepping into a karaoke wonderland that’s cash-only, quirky, and, well, inside a double-wide trailer. Nola Arroz describes it as “amazing karaoke at night,” and don’t worry if you’re short on cash—they’ve thoughtfully placed an ATM right outside. And heads up from Jackie Izinicki: “Santa’s was great, but beware, they only serve beer. No liquor.” Love it or leave it, this is Nashville’s dive bar royalty.

Nicole Hamilton, Joe Giordano, and half of Nashville it seems, also back Santa’s Pub as a must-visit. For Jennifer Kay Morphew, it’s the first stop when she’s in town, and let’s be honest, if you’re looking for pure Nashville soul, this is it.

  • Address: 2225 Bransford Avenue, Nashville, TN 37204
  • Website: santaspub.com

2. Springwater Supper Club and Lounge

Ever wondered what the oldest bar in Tennessee looks like? Paula Ropp gives you the rundown: “Live music twice a day when they’re open. Lots of history. Cheap beer.” A place where musicians and locals mingle over affordable pints, Springwater Supper Club is where the Nashville music scene feels raw and real. Jennifer Crouse Campbell vouches for its authenticity, saying, “I second this… place was so cool.” Chrystalynn Beard adds, “Springwater!!” Like you needed more convincing.

Photo Credit: Philip Pickles

3. Printers Alley

Dive bar mecca, anyone? Printers Alley isn’t just one bar; it’s a whole alley lined with spots that are as Nashville as it gets. Geraldine Gutierrez calls it a go-to for great dives, while Cathy SB and Sue Whalen back her up—”Printers Alley has many,” Cathy says. You’ll find hidden treasures, live music, and a good chance to stumble upon some true Nashville characters. If you’re feeling adventurous, this alleyway is your playground.

4. Music City Bar & Grill

For those looking to avoid Broadway crowds but still enjoy traditional music, Music City Bar & Grill is where it’s at. Dwayne House doesn’t mince words, saying, “Music City Bar and Grill is the best.” Amy Page Rossi recommends it “for traditional music,” making it the spot if you’re in the mood for good tunes and a laid-back vibe.

This spot also has a loyal following. Beth Everett Bridges, Angel Poole, and Patti Soo all gave it a shoutout. So, if you’re chasing an authentic Nashville dive with genuine music, it’s hard to go wrong here.

5. The Dive Bar Tour

Yes, there’s a tour just for dive bar lovers. Wendy Bowman booked it, and it was a hit. Just don’t expect a Broadway-style party bus. Jackie Migliaro mentions, “it’s not like other tours… no drinking on the bus, and the bars aren’t close together.” It’s more like a trip with friends, only in a church van (minus the sermon). But according to Jan Sperl, “this tour was the BEST!!” So, maybe grab your crew and buckle up for a divey adventure around Nashville.

Photo Credit: Bobby’s Idle Hour Facebook

6. Bobby’s Idle Hour

If you’re after a true hangout vibe, Bobby’s Idle Hour has it. Marcy Anderson loved the quirky touch here, noting, “the bartender makes jewelry—we bought earrings made out of guitar picks.” Hope Tyler swears by it as the perfect recovery spot, saying she’d go “if I was hungover and couldn’t do Broadway.” This is one place to enjoy canned beer, laid-back tunes, and some fun souvenirs.

7. Dino’s

Over on the east side, you’ve got Dino’s, a true no-frills kind of place. Tammy Stewart Drake backs it up with an enthusiastic, “Dino’s for sure!” Ruth Elkins agrees, placing it as her East Nashville go-to. If a classic burger joint vibe with a side of grit sounds like your thing, Dino’s might just be your new favorite.

Doc Holidays

8. Doc Holliday’s

Looking for a spot with a bit of grit? Doc Holliday’s in Germantown has that divey, worn-in feel, plus it’s right in the heart of a historic neighborhood. Phyllis M Beale-Vircik puts it simply: “Bell bottoms or Doc Holliday’s or just do both.” Mike Delaire and Rick Walker also gave it their seal of approval. If you’re going to visit Germantown, might as well take a detour to this local favorite.

9. Losers

Celeb sightings? Check. Local dive vibes? Double-check. Shari Melhorn recommends Losers, where you might even catch a famous face or two. Tammy Jones and Mari Ann Nudo both chimed in with a vote for Losers, proving it’s a favorite for those wanting a classic, no-frills dive bar experience.

  • Address: 1911 Division Street, Nashville, TN 37203
  • Website: losersbar.com

10. The Local and Dee’s Country Cocktail Lounge

Last but not least, for those in the know, The Local and Dee’s are solid picks. Amy Tyler mentions, “I go here when I come down.” It’s a low-key spot with a devoted following. Katherine Kelly Brown is another fan, specifically highlighting Dee’s as her go-to for that down-home Nashville feel. If you’re looking for a place that has a bit of everything and feels like a home away from home, give these a try.

  • Dee's Country Cocktail Lounge
  • Address: 102 East Palestine Avenue, Madison, TN 37115
  • Website: deeslounge.com

So, there you have it. Nashville’s dive bar scene, straight from the locals who live it. Whether it’s Santa’s Pub for karaoke, Printers Alley for variety, or a laid-back beer at Bobby’s, Nashville has a dive bar for every taste (and budget).

2 thoughts on “Dive Bars That are Not on Broadway: Your Ultimate Nashville Experience”

  1. I’m a Nashvillian and I know where most of these places are, but since this is geared toward visitors/tourists, it would be a good idea to give the establishments’ addresses (and maybe phone numbers and websites as well).

    Yeah, I know they can google it but it would be nice if you provided some information.

    Reply

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