Seemor
Nashville › The Gulch › Skull's Rainbow Room
Skull's Rainbow RoomBWorth Trying
222 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN 37219
· American restaurant, Bar, Cocktail bar
· 4.6/5 Google (3043 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
A moody speakeasy-style steakhouse with live jazz and burlesque; food ranges from memorable to uneven, service is often warm, and costs are high—best for the show-plus-dinner experience if you plan well.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Skull's Rainbow Room delivers a compelling experience-driven dining destination where exceptional historic speakeasy ambiance and genuinely attentive service elevate the visit. However, inconsistent food execution—with steaks ranging from exceptional to underseasoned—and cramped quarters during shows prevent grade A territory. Best approached as dinner-and-entertainment package rather than steakhouse destination alone.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and moody the moment you step off Printers Alley—low light, chandeliers, and a pianist who sets a classy, throwback tone. Service often comes across as genuinely attentive with servers guiding cuts, wine, and show timing. One diner put it simply: "It felt like stepping into another era, and the staff kept us smiling all night." The cooking leans classic steakhouse with polished touches—prime rib, filet, tartare, foie gras—and a few playful nods like crawfish gnocchi. When the kitchen is on, it sings; when it is not, some dishes read underseasoned or overdone. If you care as much about the band and cocktails as the plate, this is the right kind of indulgence, especially with a reservation timed to the entertainment. Families should know the menu and energy skew adult. There are a few simpler options—burgers are absent, but steaks, fries, and truffle mash can work for flexible eaters—yet late shows, volume, and pricing are not ideal for kids. For a calmer visit, aim earlier in the evening and skip the burlesque cover if you just want dinner.
At a Glance
- Historic speakeasy setting with live jazz and burlesque
- Steaks and prime rib are crowd favorites when executed well
- Show logistics include cover charges and cramped standing areas
- Food consistency varies; some dishes underseasoned or overcooked
- Reservations highly recommended for dinner and late shows
What Sets It Apart
- historic_speakeasy_ambiance
- live_jazz_and_burlesque
- downtown_printers_alley_location
What People Love
- Evocative speakeasy ambiance
- Attentive, personable servers
- Live jazz that elevates the room
- Prime rib and steaks when they hit
Points of Concern
- Cover charge and limited sightlines for burlesque; standing-room can be crowded
- Strict table time limits frustrate some, especially near show transitions
- Inconsistent seasoning and occasional toughness reported on select proteins
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($34-60 mains) which may surprise casual diners
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$70-105 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair steaks with lemon-pepper asparagus or truffle mash for balance
- Seafood fans: choose Diver Scallops over bisque for more consistent results
Perfect For
- Date night with live music
- Celebratory steak dinner
- Out-of-town guests seeking Nashville nightlife
- Cocktails before a late show
Location Insights
Area: Historic alley with speakeasy bars and nightlife; draws visitors and date-night crowds near downtown attractions.
Safety: Busy nightlife corridor; generally safe with foot traffic, but crowded and noisy late at night.
Nearby: Steps from Broadway honky-tonks, hotels, and theaters; live-music venues line the alley.
DowntownDowntown Nashville is characterized by a bustling nightlife with numerous bars, live music venues, and restaurants ranging from casual to upscale. The area is energetic and social, popular for evening entertainment and dining experiences that often include live performances.
Printers AlleyPrinters Alley is a historic alley known for its concentration of bars, clubs, and live music venues. It has a distinct nightlife vibe with a mix of casual and themed bars, making it a hotspot for those looking to enjoy music and cocktails in an intimate setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–02:00
Tuesday17:00–02:00
Wednesday17:00–02:00
Thursday17:00–02:00
Friday17:00–02:00
Saturday17:00–02:00
Sunday10:00–14:00, 17:00–02:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →