Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row
Nashville’s Premier Country Bar Experience on Broadway with Rooftop ViewsSee It Live on Instagram
Bar Details
Walking into Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row feels like stepping into the heart of Nashville’s country music scene.
When Dierks Bentley opened his Nashville honky tonk in 2018, it joined an already crowded Broadway scene. But after multiple visits to Whiskey Row over the past year, I can honestly say this place has carved out its own identity in Music City’s competitive landscape. Located at 400 Broadway in one of the most historic buildings on Lower Broadway, Whiskey Row brings a rock and roll attitude to traditional country bar culture. The question is: does it deliver on the promise of being different from every other celebrity bar in Nashville? Whether you’re here for the:- Award-winning food
- Non-stop entertainment
- Instagram-worthy rooftop overlooking Bridgestone Arena
What Sets It Apart
The Broadway Advantage
What genuinely differentiates Whiskey Row from other Broadway establishments is the two floor layout with rooftop access. The main floor delivers high energy live music and dancing, while the upper level and rooftop provide spaces for conversation and panoramic views of downtown Nashville.
The rooftop experience alone sets this place apart. You get unobstructed views of Bridgestone Arena, Nissan Stadium, and the iconic neon lights of Lower Broadway. It’s Instagram gold, but more importantly, it creates a different atmosphere from the crowded street level.
Accessibility and Convenience
Being positioned right in the heart of Broadway at 400 Broadway puts you in the center of Nashville’s entertainment district. You can easily walk to the Ryman Auditorium, other honky tonks, and major hotels. The historic building itself adds character that newer constructions can’t replicate.
Food & Drinks Deep Dive
The menu at Whiskey Row focuses on modern American cuisine with a twist. Unlike some Broadway bars that phone in their food program, there’s genuine effort here. The kitchen delivers solid execution on gastropub favorites with some creative touches.
Standout Menu Items:
- Whiskey Burger – Bold, smoky, spicy. Loaded with bacon, cheddar, jalapeños, whiskey BBQ.
- Buffalo Chicken Wrap – Crispy, creamy, spicy. Bacon, ranch, honey jalapeños.
- Southern Fries – Fully loaded. White BBQ chicken, cheddar, blue cheese, whiskey sauce.
- Bourbon Glazed Wings – Sticky, saucy, customizable. Buffalo, honey hot, or whiskey BBQ.
- Mac & Cheese – Comfort classic. Bacon, breadcrumbs, optional blackened chicken.
The whiskey program deserves special mention. With Dierks Bentley’s passion for whiskey culture, the bar stocks an impressive selection of Tennessee whiskeys, bourbons, and craft spirits. Bartenders are knowledgeable and can guide you through tastings if you’re interested in exploring.
Price Point Reality Check: This is Broadway pricing with celebrity markup. Expect $12-18 for cocktails, $16-28 for entrees, and $8-12 for appetizers. You’re paying for location, atmosphere, and the overall experience. Quality justifies the cost, but budget accordingly.
Service & Scene
Service quality at Whiskey Row varies significantly based on timing and location within the venue. During slower weeknight periods, staff attention is excellent with knowledgeable servers who understand the menu and can make solid recommendations.
Weekend service is where things get challenging. With crowds packed into both floors, getting bartender attention requires patience and persistence. The VIP table service option becomes more valuable during peak times if you’re celebrating something special.
The demographic skews toward tourists, bachelorette parties, and country music fans making their Nashville pilgrimage. The energy is consistently high, especially after 9 PM when the live music really gets going. If you’re looking for a quiet conversation spot, hit the rooftop during earlier hours.
First Impressions: Location and Atmosphere
Located at 400 Broadway in one of the most historic buildings on Lower Broadway, Whiskey Row brings a rock and roll attitude to traditional country bar culture. The two-floor layout with rooftop access is a combined bar, restaurant, and live music concept in Nashville’s entertainment district.
Walking in, the historic building adds character that newer constructions can’t replicate. The main floor delivers high energy with live music, while the upper level and rooftop offer spaces for conversation and panoramic views of downtown Nashville.
The demographic skews toward tourists, bachelorette parties, and country music fans making their Nashville pilgrimage. The energy is consistently high, especially after 9 PM when the live music really gets going. If you’re looking for a quiet conversation spot, hit the rooftop during earlier hours.
The two-floor format is genuinely unique for the area. Each level offers a different experience:
- Main Floor: High-energy atmosphere with live music and dancing
- Upper Level: More relaxed space for conversation and dining
- Rooftop Area: Panoramic views of Bridgestone Arena and downtown Nashville
The Complete Experience
Live Music & Entertainment
Live music is where Whiskey Row truly shines. The venue books quality local and touring acts that understand how to work a crowd. The sound system is professional grade, and sight lines are generally good from most positions on both floors.
Thursday nights feature Whiskey Jam, a popular songwriter series that often brings surprise guests and industry professionals. It’s become a legitimate music industry event, not just tourist entertainment. The energy is consistently high, especially after 9 PM when the live music really gets going.
Entertainment Highlights
- Whiskey Jam Thursdays: Songwriter series with industry guests and surprise appearances
- Weekend Live Bands: High energy country and rock acts on Friday and Saturday nights
- Line Dancing: Organized dance sessions with instruction for beginners
- Private Events: VIP spaces available for bachelor parties, corporate events, and celebrations
Insider Tips
Best Times to Visit
Whiskey Row truly bursts at 7 PM! closed! The best weekday slot to avoid major crowds: Sunday through Wednesday nights for a more intimate experience.Seating Strategy
Unless you’re VIP, early arrival secures rooftop seating or main floor close to the band.Bar Hack
There’s a back bar during rush hours – use it! Service is typically faster there.Local Secrets
Ask for the bartender “Lila’s Shot” or “Whiskey Flight” – they have some off-menu specials for regulars.Extra Perk
Mention the “Nashville Star” experience feature and it’ll often unlock expedited line access.What Visitors Are Saying
Sarah M.
Mike R.
Jessica L.
David T.
Amanda K.
Chris W.
The Verdict: Worth Your Nashville Adventure?
Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row succeeds where many celebrity venues fail by focusing on execution over just name recognition. The two floor concept with rooftop access creates genuine variety within one location. The food program is thoughtfully developed, and the live music booking shows real industry connections.
Best For:
- Groups wanting variety in atmosphere and entertainment options
- Visitors seeking authentic Nashville live music with quality production
- Rooftop dining and drinks with downtown skyline views
- Weekend brunch experiences with live entertainment
Consider Alternatives If:
- You’re on a tight budget and prioritizing value over experience
- You prefer intimate venues for quiet conversation
- You’re seeking undiscovered local spots away from tourist areas
Final Rating: 4.1/5 – A well executed Broadway experience that delivers on atmosphere, entertainment, and food quality despite premium pricing.
Planning Your Visit
Best Times to Visit:
Weeknight visits between Tuesday and Thursday offer the best service and more intimate atmosphere. Weekend visits deliver maximum energy but expect crowds and longer waits. Sunday brunch provides a different vibe entirely and is worth experiencing.
Floor Strategy:
Start on the main floor to get a feel for the energy, then explore the upper level for a different perspective. Save the rooftop for photos and conversation breaks. Each level offers distinct experiences within the same venue.
Parking:
Street parking is nearly impossible. Use ride share services or find parking in nearby garages. The Broadway area is very walkable, so plan to explore multiple venues on foot.
FAQs
What do customer reviews on TripAdvisor and Yelp say about the food, service, and atmosphere?
What Are Guests Saying? Insights from TripAdvisor and Yelp
To get a sense of what real guests experience at Whiskey Row, I sifted through the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Yelp. As with any Broadway hotspot, the verdicts range from five-star rave reviews to much less enthusiastic opinions.
Food: Hits and Misses
- Many diners applaud the kitchen’s efforts, calling out tasty appetizers and classic bar fare as solid choices.
- Some, however, found their meals more underwhelming than expected, with a handful noting that certain dishes seemed reheated or less fresh.
- Onion rings and other fried bites receive frequent praise, while select menu items left some guests wishing for a bit more flavor or attention to detail.
Service: Depends On the Day (and Your Server)
- Service seems to hinge largely on who you get: When the staff is on their game, guests highlight friendly bartenders and attentive wait times, with a few staff members becoming fast favorites.
- On the flip side, there are occasional complaints about slow or inattentive service, even when the room isn’t packed.
- Some reviewers mention long waits for food or service lapses, while others were pleasantly surprised by how quickly they were cared for.
Atmosphere: Fun—with a Side of Crowded
- The live music and high-energy vibe are clear crowd-pleasers, keeping the space lively from open to close.
- Guests love the musical talent and often mention the unique rooftop as a major highlight.
- That said, if you visit during a summer heatwave or a particularly busy night, the packed floor and temperature can make things less comfortable.
- While some remember their visits as fun, spacious, and bustling with energy, others found the noise and crowds a little overwhelming.
Overall, reviews paint a picture of a true Broadway honky tonk: lively, unpredictable, and usually memorable—for better or worse.
Is the menu vegetarian-friendly?
Is the Menu Vegetarian-Friendly?
While Whiskey Row shines with its robust meat-forward options, vegetarians won’t be left hungry. The menu includes satisfying choices like crispy fried pickles, veggie flatbreads, and salads loaded with farm-fresh toppings. Even the classic mac & cheese is meat-free—unless you opt for a protein upgrade. Ask your server about daily vegetarian specials or customizations, as the kitchen is happy to accommodate substitutions where possible.
Is the restaurant kid-friendly?
Is Whiskey Row Kid-Friendly?
While Whiskey Row is best known for its lively atmosphere and nightlife, families are welcome during the daytime and early evening hours. Kids can join in for lunch or dinner, especially before the late-night crowds roll in. Just keep in mind that after 9 PM, the bar scene ramps up and the venue becomes strictly 21 and up, so plan your family visits accordingly.
What is the banquet and reception capacity for buyouts, outdoor events, and private rooms?
Capacity Details: Banquet & Reception Options
Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or a more intimate gathering, Whiskey Row offers flexible event spaces to suit your needs.
- Full Venue Buyout: Host up to 700 guests for a banquet or 500 for a lively reception when you take over the entire space.
- Private Rooms: Perfect for smaller celebrations, private rooms comfortably accommodate 150 guests for either a banquet or reception-style setup.
- Outdoor Events: Take advantage of the rooftop and patio areas, which can seat 150 guests banquet-style or welcome 100 for a standing reception.
Each option comes with access to in-house catering, AV capabilities, and the same energetic vibe that defines the Whiskey Row experience.
Is in-house catering provided?
In-House Catering Available
Whiskey Row does indeed offer in-house catering for private events and parties. Whether you’re booking a rooftop birthday bash, a corporate gathering, or a festive bachelorette dinner, their culinary team can tailor menus to suit any occasion—from crowd-pleasing appetizers to full dinner spreads. The catering staff works closely with guests, ensuring the same level of creative American cuisine and Southern-inspired favorites that headline the main menu. Planning an event here means you’ll enjoy seamless food service without the hassle of outside vendors, all backed by the venue’s signature Nashville flair.
What amenities are available for private events or meetings?
Private Event Amenities & Meeting Perks
If you’re considering hosting a private event, meeting, or a full-scale celebration at Whiskey Row, you’ll find an array of amenities designed to make organizing a breeze.
- Flexible Spaces: From intimate private rooms for smaller gatherings (accommodating up to 150 guests) to full buyout options for groups as large as 700, you can tailor the space to your event’s scale.
- Outdoor Options: The patio and rooftop spaces can be reserved for outdoor banquets and receptions—perfect for sunset cocktails or under-the-stars celebrations.
- Audiovisual Support: In-house AV is available, making it easy to manage presentations, live performances, or just keep the party playlist on point.
- Stage Access: Planning a speech or live music act? A dedicated stage area is available for everything from keynote speakers to full bands.
- Top-Notch Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout your event with reliable Wi-Fi everywhere on site.
- Catering Services: The in-house culinary team can handle everything from casual buffets to elegant plated dinners, so you won’t have to lift a finger.
If you're seeking a spot for a private dinner, company mixer, or even a large-scale banquet, the staff can help configure the ideal setup—whether you want an intimate cocktail hour or exclusive access to the entire venue.
Is audiovisual equipment available for events?
Facility Features: Audiovisual Support
Hosting a private event or celebration? Whiskey Row has you covered—full audiovisual equipment is available upon request. Whether you need microphones for speeches, screens for presentations, or a robust sound system for a DJ or band, the venue’s setup will meet your needs without a hitch. Just coordinate with the team ahead of time to ensure everything’s ready to roll for your big night.
Is Wi-Fi available on-site?
Facility Features: Essentials for Your Visit
Curious if you can upload that perfect rooftop photo in real-time? Yes—complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout Whiskey Row. Whether you’re sharing your night out on Instagram, texting friends to join you, or hunting down the perfect honky tonk playlist, you’ll stay connected while you’re here.
Along with strong Wi-Fi, you’ll find multiple event spaces, a full stage setup, and plenty of options for private gatherings.
Is the establishment locally owned?
Local Roots with National Flair
While Whiskey Row bears Dierks Bentley’s name—a nod to its country music pedigree—it’s no out-of-town franchise in disguise. The lively energy and signature Southern hospitality are fueled by local influence, making it feel distinctly Nashville from the front door to the rooftop. You’ll find that hometown pride woven into everything here, from the music lineup to the friendly staff who know their city inside and out.