Nashville’s 10 Best Bars for Design, Ambiance, and Cocktails
Harriet’s Rooftop, Nashville, TN. Photo: Harriet’s Rooftop
Nashville has evolved far beyond its honky-tonk reputation to become a sophisticated destination where craft cocktails meet cutting-edge design, and where every neighborhood offers its own distinct approach to beautiful drinking spaces. From East Nashville's creative energy to The Gulch's upscale sophistication, the city's bar scene celebrates both innovation and authenticity in environments that are as carefully crafted as the drinks they serve. Whether you're seeking underground speakeasies with moody lighting, rooftop bars with skyline views, or intimate cocktail lounges where every detail has been considered with intention, Nashville's most beautiful bars prove that Music City knows how to create atmosphere as memorable as its legendary music. This guide curates the most aesthetically stunning drinking destinations across Nashville's diverse neighborhoods, because the best nights out deserve settings that are every bit as unforgettable as the company you keep.
Fancypants | East Nashville
Photo: Fancypants
Fancypants creates an elevated hospitality experience in East Nashville with a bar program that focuses on local ingredients and approachable luxury. The space reimagines the upscale bar experience by adding elements of fun and playfulness while maintaining sophisticated cocktail craft that takes the drinks as seriously as the design. The convivial atmosphere makes it perfect for celebrating special occasions when you want elevated cocktails without the stuffiness that sometimes comes with traditional upscale establishments. The bar area creates an intimate setting for date nights or small group celebrations where you can enjoy expertly crafted drinks while soaking in the warm, welcoming energy that defines East Nashville's hospitality scene. This is where locals and visitors alike come when they want to experience Nashville's commitment to beautiful spaces and exceptional service in one of the city's most thoughtfully designed drinking destinations.
Pont Neuf Bar | West Nashville
Photo: Pont Neuf Bar
Pont Neuf creates a unique after-hours experience as a wine, cocktail, and flower bar that seats 45 people across communal tables and intimate bar seating. The space combines the elegance of a wine bar with the creativity of a cocktail lounge and the unexpected charm of fresh flowers, creating an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Perfect for late-night dates and intimate conversations, this is where you come when you want something more thoughtful than typical Nashville nightlife. The communal seating encourages connection while the bar provides options for those seeking more intimate encounters over carefully selected wines and craft cocktails. The flower element adds a distinctive touch that makes every visit feel special, appealing to those who appreciate unique concepts executed with style and intention.
Attaboy | East Nashville
Photo: Attaboy
Attaboy delivers innovative cocktails in a trendy industrial-style space that captures the creative energy of East Nashville's bar scene. The bar specializes in both creative concoctions and classic cocktails, providing options for adventurous drinkers and those who prefer timeless favorites in a space that feels both edgy and welcoming. The industrial aesthetic creates the perfect backdrop for serious cocktail craft, attracting both cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers who appreciate beautiful design. This is your go-to for impressing cocktail-savvy friends or discovering new favorite drinks in an environment that celebrates both innovation and craftsmanship. The trendy atmosphere makes it perfect for groups looking for a stylish night out in one of Nashville's most creative neighborhoods.
Harriet's Rooftop | 1 Hotel Nashville | Downtown
Photo: Harriet's Rooftop
Located on the 19th floor of 1 Hotel Nashville, Harriet's Rooftop offers exclusive views of Music City's skyline in an elevated setting that combines austere charred wood with lush greenery accents. The lively yet intimate space creates the perfect backdrop for bespoke libations and eclectic light bites, with seasonally and sustainably driven offerings that match the hotel's environmental commitment. This is your destination for special occasion drinks and romantic dates when you want Nashville's skyline as your backdrop, popular with both hotel guests and locals seeking elevated nightlife experiences. The rooftop setting provides the perfect atmosphere for sunset cocktails or late-night drinks under the stars, with curated tableside experiences that make every visit memorable. The innovative cocktails crafted with seasonal ingredients ensure that both the drinks and the views exceed expectations.
888 | The Gulch
Photo: 888
888 brings together innovative Japanese cuisine with a vinyl record listening lounge, creating a unique fusion experience that caters to sound connoisseurs, foodies, and design enthusiasts seeking refuge from Broadway's crowds. The intimate, communal space offers a high-fidelity listening experience that makes every visit feel like listening to a mixtape being made in real time. This is where you come for sophisticated dates and evenings when you want both exceptional cocktails and curated music in a space that celebrates Japanese aesthetics and vinyl culture. The design appeals to music lovers and cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate the intersection of great sound, beautiful design, and expertly crafted drinks. The atmosphere provides the perfect escape for those seeking something more refined and culturally engaging than typical Nashville nightlife.
The Patterson House | The Gulch
Photo: The Patterson House
The Patterson House establishes itself as an intimate cocktail destination specializing in craft drinks made with freshly squeezed juices, house-made syrups, and eight variations of twice-filtered ice. The bar's commitment to cocktail craftsmanship shows in every detail, with an extensive seasonal menu that ensures every visit offers something new to discover. This is the choice for serious cocktail enthusiasts and intimate dates where the focus is on exceptional drinks and meaningful conversation rather than loud music or party atmosphere. The seasonal approach to the cocktail menu keeps regulars coming back while providing newcomers with expertly crafted introductions to premium cocktail culture. The intimate setting makes it perfect for special occasions and romantic evenings when you want the drinks to be as memorable as the company.
Audrey | McFerrin Park
Photo: Audrey
Audrey combines rustic charm with Southern and Appalachian design elements in a cozy, artistic atmosphere that extends to the bar program upstairs. The space balances warmth with sophistication, creating an environment where the bar becomes as much of a destination as the acclaimed restaurant below. This is where you come for pre-dinner drinks that set the tone for a special evening, or for intimate nightcaps when you want to experience sophisticated cocktails in a more casual bar setting. The artistic, cozy environment appeals to food and drink enthusiasts who appreciate the intersection of exceptional cocktails and thoughtful design. The upstairs bar provides the perfect atmosphere for those seeking sophisticated drinks in a space that feels both elevated and genuinely welcoming.
White Limozeen | Graduate Nashville | Midtown
Photo: White Limozeen
White Limozeen boasts vibrant retro-inspired design featuring pink and white decor with tropical accents that create a playful yet stylish atmosphere perfect for Instagram-worthy moments. The chic and lively space includes access to The Governor's Pool, where guests can enjoy skyline views while lounging under bright pink umbrellas with poolside cocktails. This is your destination for fun group celebrations and stylish nights out when you want both great drinks and an aesthetic that guarantees memorable photos. The glamorous setting appeals to those who appreciate bold design choices and tropical-inspired cocktails in a space that celebrates both Nashville's music heritage and contemporary luxury. The poolside element makes it perfect for special occasions and summer celebrations where the setting becomes part of the entertainment.
Drusie & Darr | Downtown
Photo: Drusie & Darr
Drusie & Darr presents modern and chic design with sleek aesthetics and contemporary decor that creates an upscale yet approachable atmosphere in the heart of downtown Nashville. The sophisticated space balances trendy elements with welcoming touches, making it perfect for both business drinks and social celebrations in a fashionable, comfortable setting. This is where you come for polished date nights and professional celebrations when you want elevated cocktails in a space that feels both current and timeless. The contemporary design appeals to those who appreciate clean lines and sophisticated atmosphere without pretension or excessive formality. The downtown location makes it perfect for pre-theater drinks or sophisticated evenings that call for elegant surroundings and expertly crafted cocktails.
Moto | The Gulch
Photo: Moto
Moto creates an industrial-chic atmosphere with a hip bar that complements the restaurant's haute Italian approach through sophisticated cocktails and stylish design. The space balances the energy of The Gulch with intimate bar seating that makes cocktails feel as important as the acclaimed small plates program. This is your choice for sophisticated pre-dinner drinks or late-night cocktails when you want Italian-inspired elegance in one of Nashville's most dynamic neighborhoods. The industrial-chic design appeals to those who appreciate contemporary aesthetics and expertly crafted cocktails in a space that feels both urban and refined. The hip bar atmosphere makes it perfect for impressing dates or celebrating with friends who appreciate the intersection of great design, excellent drinks, and Italian sophistication.
Nashville's bar scene reflects the city's evolution into a sophisticated destination that honors its musical heritage while embracing contemporary design and cocktail innovation. From underground speakeasies to rooftop lounges with skyline views, these beautiful bars prove that Music City has mastered the art of creating drinking environments that are as memorable as the experiences they host. Whether you're planning a romantic evening, celebrating with friends, or simply seeking a beautiful space to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, Nashville's most aesthetic bars offer endless inspiration for nights worth remembering. The only challenge will be deciding which stunning space deserves your attention first.
All locations featured here are Opulist picks and can also be found when using the "Bar" Feature filter while searching for your going out experience in Nashville.
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