I've lived in the Nashville area for a little over a decade now and every time I think I've seen a show at every venue in town, I'm reminded of ones that have slipped me. The Bluebird Cafe was perhaps the biggest blind spot in my adventures as a concert goer. Thankfully for me, a can't miss opportunity arose and I was able to get tickets for it. I'm a HUGE Drive By Truckers fan and I've seen the band a dozen+ times live across the country. I've seen co-founder Patterson Hood solo a few times, but never Mike Cooley (the other co-founder) as he's simply never played live in a city I was living in or close to on a solo tour...until now. So when I saw he was doing 2 back to back shows at the Bluebird, a venue I had yet to experience, it seemed sort of kismet. I logged on when tickets went on sale and bought a great seat instantly for a very reasonable price. When I arrived, it was a bit early so I parked in the back gravel lot which was completely empty. There are Reddit scammers urging you to use Parkit and other apps to find a spot when you go to the Bluebird, but at least on this visit (a Thursday night for a sold out show) there was plenty of parking in the free gravel lot and in the lot for the adjacent bank which allows parking post 4:30...plus across the street in the Hillsboro neighborhood. If you have to Uber, there's a massive free lot at Green Hills mall 2 minutes away. Entry was easy, service was friendly. It's a cozy, warm environment. Food was good-- I ordered a "Bluebird basket" of chicken tenders and fries. I had a couple of beers and a whiskey on the rocks (Bulleit). They have a solid bar menu, some good beers (but none on tap), wine, and a few cocktail options. All reasonably priced. The show was fantastic. I love that they enforce a no-talking during the show and no late entry policy. Acoustics are fantastic. Service is friendly. Bathrooms are even clean, lol. It's a Nashville institution for a reason. See a show here. read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Bluebird Basket (tenders and fries) - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

The coolest music venue I have ever been to. The food was okay, the drinks were great, and the entertainment was absolutely exceptional. This was the highlight of our trip to Nashville! read more

The place was on my bucket list and I was able to snag a ticket before a trip to Nashville. I went alone but was added to a table with 3 others. The staff is amazing, this experience is amazing. The stories the songwriters told were intriguing. This experience is like nothing else I have ever done and I have been to a LOT of concerts. Doesn't really even matter who is performing, just go, you won't regret it. There is a food/drink minimum but that's not the point of going. I ordered some soup which was tasty but was kind of awkward to eat. More vegan options would be nice but I really didn't care since I was there for music not food. I would not hesitate to return. read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Pretty much a tourist trap, but a cool enough tour trap. My daughter wanted to check this place out and get a T-shirt. Both my daughter and I found it to be smaller than we thought. The place still had a cool ambiance and the service was friendly enough. I would definitely recommend a visit here. read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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This little (and I mean, little) listening room (it's not a bar, damn it) is well worth a visit. You probably already know that Taylor Swift and Garth Brooks and many other huge names played in this little room. The location is hilarious. It's set in a tiny strip mall. The security guard is awesome, by the way. Really. Yes, you should make a reservation. Watch the website carefully and schedule when you need to log on to buy your tickets. Maybe I was lucky, or diligent, or both, but I got tickets as soon as they were made available online. Your other option is waiting outside the front door and hoping someone who has tickets doesn't show up. That's not ideal, boys and girls. We saw a lot of people turned away at the door. The ticket prices are very reasonable (about $17 per ticket for our show) and there is also a $12 per person minimum charge for food and/or drinks. You can order a ton of Cokes, or booze, or food, or any combination that makes you happy in order to meet the minimum. The food menu is very short, by the way. However, the brie plate, which almost everyone gets, is excellent. I could have eaten a full loaf of the salty crusty bread that comes with the cheese. Incidentally, although only beer, wine, cider, and soft drinks are shown on the menu, they have a full bar. Our server was excellent. The servers in the room know exactly what they are doing. There isn't a bad seat in the house. It's one small room with photos and interesting decor all around. Yes, some seats are better than others but if you score tickets, count your blessings and don't complain. You'll also likely get up close and personal with other folks inside. It's tight quarters and you'll probably be sharing a table with others. They are also very serious about the customers shutting up during the live music. Again, this isn't a bar. This is for people who really enjoy live music and want to hear it. If you want to gab during someone's performance, you need to go somewhere else. There are probably about 10 tight parking spots available in front of the place. Check the website for other parking tips. This is a very fun and unique experience. Some experiences are one and done. This is not that type of experience. This is a place I would try to visit during every visit to Nashville, if I could. read more

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Came here because my friend is a Taylor Swift fan and this is where she apparently got discovered. We didn't have tickets since the show was sold out online so we lined up early and hoped for the best. Heads up if you try this: they only let the first 10-12 people in from the waitlist line outside. We got there at 4:30 for a 6pm show and were number 12. I think 13 people total ended up getting in that night, so if it's a busy one, don't count on it unless you're early. Tickets are $12 at the door if you're lucky to get inside. The workers here are insanely kind and patient. They have a million things and still somehow getting everything done and orders in and delivered. Please be nice to them! They're precious! We got seated at the bar and ordered drinks and food. The setup is super cozy and the singers sit right in the middle so it feels really intimate. I got some merch at the end too. Overall, worth going at least once if you're in Nashville read more

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Got lucky and got tickets for Saturday night. It's exactly what it claims to be a dive bar with good food. Servers are always busy but deliver. You're there for the music and maybe the next Hank Williams. read more

We were here for open mic. We got here about 1.3 hours before the doors opened. There was already a long line. There is an associate taking names. 65 people including the performers. The doors opened at 5:37 with the performers first and then patrons. We were asked to shut off our phones. The hostess seats you, many places are just benches. We were lucky and got a table. The server came quickly and took our drink and food order. Beer came quickly. The hostess started talking at 5:58 and ended at 6:06. We were told that we are done at 7:45. One by one each performer came up, some singing some saying poems. Some were funny and some were great and others not so good. It was a great night out. Beer was cold, salad was ok and pizza was fairly good. You come here for the experience and it was great night for 52.00. We may have heard some future stars tonight. read more

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Bluebird is an s as mazing intimate music venue...so we were not expecting decent food and wine. Boy, were we wrong! They had great wine chives, and we had a delicious Turkey club on brioche. And the server was five star! She kept refilling water, bringing food and drink, all while the concert was going on. A real pro! Plus, music is amazing!!!!! read more

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We went online at the appointed time and were able to get tickets for the songwriter night (the charge simply covers service fees so it is very reasonable). Our seats were right in front of the stage. Very cool. The music was amazing, so fun to get to hear people who have written their own songs and are looking for a break. We had chicken pot pies which were very good. read more

This is a great experience for anyone who lives in or visits Nashville. It's a small place that really packs in people using every square inch available. The doorman was very entertaining providing knowledge on the history of the venue through the use of humor. We went on open mic night and saw performers from all over the world trying to make it big in Nashville. I didn't have any food, but my friends said it was pretty good. read more

This was a bucket list item for me! A cute venue and we loved listening to the stories of the songwriters! Drinks were good and service was great! read more

Our third time here this past Saturday. We came in because my other half if a very frequent flyer with Southwest and Southwest honors their platinum award members with a night to The Bluebird Cafe every year. This was our third year in a roll. We had the best time. We have seen some fantastic country music writers and just amazing people from Southwest Airlines. The food here is great. The drinks are cold and wet and service is always excellent. Some really big song writers have been in here and broke some serious records and not always country. This is a very small venue and yes it's in a strip mall. But this is a unique place. It's been around since 1982. If they move, the sound wouldn't be the same and neither would the closeness and intimacy you get from the musicians. It's an experience like no other. Thank You Southwest and The Bluebird so much for having us out again. We Loved every minute of it. read more

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The Bluebird Cafe is a cozy country music listening room tucked away in a little strip mall. The tiny club has lots of memorabilia & photos on the walls. What a great night this was to listen to up & coming singer songwriters! As Bluebird says, this is an "up close & personal experience of how songwriters create their music" & I agree. Regarding a place to park... that was a challenge but we did find parking across the street. I would recommend getting there early. Bluebird's website provides details on how to get tickets. Tickets go fast the day & time they are released! They are very reasonably priced too. I was prepared & ready with my credit card to move quickly. By previewing the site I knew what table I wanted, table 23. I got lucky & got it! Most tables you sit with other people, but table 23 is a table for two, it's in the back & up a few steps, so it has a great view of the entire room. There is also a food/beverage minimum of $12 per person. Every seat in the room was filled. We got to see four wonderful songwriters perform "in the round". They were in the middle of the room in a circle, taking turns singing & accompanying each other. While listening to the great music we enjoyed a couple of delicious appetizers. We had the Baked Brie & Fig- Cranberry Jam, with Focaccia & Fresh Fruit. This was really tasty. We also had the Crab Dip & Bread, served cold - it was good as well but I would have enjoyed is more if it were warmed up. All in all what a memorable experience & fantastic night! read more

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We had an amazing time and would love to visit again in the future. Everyone was friendly and the service was great. read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Looked so forward to visiting the iconic BlueBird Cafe. It did not disappoint. Maybe seating for 50 - 60 inside. The Tin Pan South Festival was going on. 4 great song writers each played 3 songs and talked about themselves. It was a totally enjoyable evening. 6pm - 7:30pm and we were on the way back to the motel. The drinks are cold, the food was limited bar type food, but good. Service was great. read more

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Wonderful experience, listening to really good music from talented song writers. Super friendly service. Basic wood chair seating in close quarters with the artists, it's all about the music and talent. read more

The Bluebird Cafe - The lineup for 9pm - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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An intimate setting and you can feel the history as soon as you walk through the door. Excellent acoustics and friendly staff make you feel like you're listening at home. read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Had so much fun! I love how intimate is and the singers are in the center of the restaurant. I tried their cocktail and it was very yummy. Everyone was so friendly. They have free parking read more

We had tried several times to get into Blue Bird and we finally did! What a wonderful experience and venue. The acoustics and entertainment were 110% fabulous! I give it 4 stars only because they were out of their soup and there are not many choices on the menu. We had the frozen chicken fingers right out of the bag. I would not eat there unless you want mediocre food at best. It's the music and talent not the food here. I highly recommend! read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Finally got in!!! - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

This has been a bucket list item. Was lucky enough to buy tickets ahead of time. Unfortunately one of our party passed away the day before we were to arrive in Nashville. Obviously had to cancel. Everyone but Bluebird was compassionate about what happened. Bluebird was the only business that would not refund our money. It was pretty sad that we had to eat that cost along with funeral costs. read more

This was on top of our list to hit while visiting Nashville. We weren't disappointed. Food was ok. Limited menu and pretty basic stuff. I have the grilled chicken sando and most the kids went fried. Service was excellent. They were on top of drinks, got everything right and split the bill perfectly. Stayed out of the way during the performance and moved us along quickly at the end. But really you go here for the performance and the small quaint atmosphere. We had a great show with some wonderful talent and it was definitely one of the highlights of the trip. read more

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I can't even begin to say how amazing this place was. We booked the 12:30 show at the Bluebird on 3rd and Lindsley. Even though it was not at the actual Bluebird Cafe, it did not disappoint. The round of musicians performed so many songs that brought back some fun line dancing times from when I was in college. The performances exceeded my expectations. This is a MUST DO if you are to visit Nashville. read more

Great little cafe for singer/songwriters! Friendly and attentive staff, they checked on us frequently and kept the drinks coming. The singer that night was great! He did a really good job, Trae Sheehan. Food was mid, eat before haha. It's very popular and crowded! Be prepared to snag a reservation or wait in line! read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Área del bar - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Sunday: Early Show-Sunday Spotlight: Doors @ 5:00pm // Show @ 6:00pm Late Show-Sunday Writers' Night: Doors @ 7:30pm // Show @ 8:00pm Monday: Early Show-Open Mic Night: Doors @ 5:30pm // Show @ 6:00pm Late Show-Mike Henderson Band: Doors @ 8:30pm // Show @ 9:00pm Tuesday-Saturday: Early Show: Doors @ 5:00pm // Show @ 6:00pm Late Show: Doors @ 8:30pm // Show @ 9:00pm Food. I ordered a hamburger and fries. They were really the best fries I have had in a long time. read more

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Hole in the wall in a strip mall. You come here for the songwriter performances where Taylor Swift was discovered. Cramped, slow service and tiny bathrooms but who cares read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

I really wanted this to be good. I came at the wrong time. When I came, the band was delayed thirty minutes. When they finally got there, they played three songs and talked about some boring "funny" moments. The lead singer really liked hearing himself talk. Then the last singer got there (finally) and told us (while laughing) that she had forgotten she was performing. That's right. She forgot she was performing. She never even apologized! The actual restaurant was nice, but I hated those singers. Even after all that, they didn't play the one song of their's that I liked. I listened to all of them. I'll come again, hopefully I'll get lucky then. read more

Great night in a cozy venue. It was snowing outside and it added to the cozy vibe. Band Blue Mother Tupelo was great, service was great, and the best old fashion I have had in a long time. read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Blue Bird Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Since we lived close, we went to Bluebirds for a family dinner. The food was MASSIVE low taper. Not like it was massive as in size but filled us up so much! The singers was amazing. The service was pretty good but not very fast like McD. The reason that this isn't a 5 star is because it was pretty long in line. And it was very crowded. read more

This was such a great night! Not a bad seat in the house. Staff were incredibly friendly and performers were excellent from beginning to end. Will definitely be back next time we're in town! read more

You go for the great experience and music. We ate there and did enjoy the food. The service was very good. It's a great looking place with lots of memorabilia. read more

It's cute and cozy not exactly what we figured. Very busy little spot and a bit tight fitting. Honestly I think you could get music anywhere In this city that's enjoyable. Good food and nice people just again smaller then you think read more

This sing-songwriter cafe has history. Not only featured in the show Nashville but also the place where some famous musicians were discovered. To get it out of the way...the food is pretty terrible. Absolutely nothing exciting to look forward but you need to spend at least $10 as part of your ticket to help support the restaurant and singers. I'd recommend eating beforehand and then spending your money on drinks or dessert here. We were fortunate to get tickets during the TinPan singer-songwriter festival. Had 4 artists play in the round in the most intimate setting with everyone gathered around and listening to those artist and their guitars. An amazing experience that was one of the Nashville highlights! If you're looking to get tickets, know that they go within the first minutes of going online so best set an alarm and get ready to stress click your way through the website! read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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Got to go here during a trip down for Fan Fair. The establishment is everything it's cracked up to be and more! We had a blast!!!

Attended a private concert for a the benefit of a private foundation. Staff was courteous, prompt, friendly and the food was typical bar food and actually tasty. Wonderful to visit a local high spot for the first time read more

First time here! Saw an ensemble group of individuals performing original songs. Small venue. Very tight seating. We did manage to get a great table. Didn't eat any good. Good beer selection. Also had a bourbon Manhattan that was great. Staff was hustling all night!! Glad we were able to experience the Bluebird. read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Beverages - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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What a phenomenal experience! On a whim, we decided to try to get standby tickets for a Saturday 9pm show on Labor Day weekend. We arrived around 6:30pm and there was already a group of four in line. They assured us the wait was totally worth it, as they'd been multiple times before and this was one of their favorite things to do in Nashville. Doors open half an hour prior to the show and after they let everyone in that has tickets, they go down the standby line and seat each group until they've reached capacity. Somehow, my bf and I scored and got seats so close we were pretty much seated right next to the entertainment that evening! Our show had a $15/pp cover and a $10/pp food and beverage minimum. Easy! We loved the mellow atmosphere. The songwriters are so talented. We laughed a lot and some even cried they were so moved by the stories and the lyrics. BONUS! We got a special treat for the evening: Tim McGraw graced us with a song or two! You never know who will show up at the Bluebird Cafe! This is a must do when in Nashville! read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Peach salad ($15) - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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The ambiance, service and music is ACE here Drinks and food are standard Parking in the front is Scarce so try parking in the back or get there early. No videos, but photos are permitted :) &yes, there's a shush policy read more

The Bluebird Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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It is not a trip to Nashville until you get to experience this place. Tickets are usually sold out every night and if you're lucky enough to secure some I highly recommend this place. Such a cool vibe and experience. I did see a couple walk up in line and were able to get some seats without reservations. Food is basic bar food and you will probably get two drinks by the time the show is over. Must do in Nashville! read more

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Great visit to the Bluebird. Featured songwriters/singers. Very talented. Had to sit at the bar. Small venue and was very crowded. Definitely worth a visit if upon Nashville. read more