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Nashville › The Gulch › The Stillery
The StilleryA-Worth Trying
113 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201
· Restaurant, American restaurant, Bar
· 4.6/5 Google (4434 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Lively downtown bar and grill with standout mac and cheese, hot chicken, and creative pizzas; go for bold flavors and live music, expect crowds and occasional service hiccups.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
The Stillery delivers exceptional food quality anchored by standout mac and cheese and hot chicken that justify its strong reputation, supported by quick and friendly service even during peak hours. Mostly consistent execution and a convenient, lively setting make it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants, though occasional service lapses and crowding at peak times prevent the higher distinction needed for grade A territory.
Restaurant Summary
Half a block off Broadway, The Stillery buzzes with lively energy, upstairs singers, and the clink of mason-jar cocktails. Servers are often quick and friendly, and plates land fast even on busy nights. One diner summed it up: "Mac with hot chicken stole the show," though a few noted that crowds and the music can feel pretty loud at peak times. The cooking leans elevated comfort with a Nashville twist: think creamy baked mac, spicy hot chicken, crisp catfish, and creative pizzas like a cheesesteak pie on pretzel crust. It is not avant‑garde; it is bold, satisfying bar fare with regional flair that works well for groups, pre‑show bites, and casual nights out. Families are well covered thanks to kid-friendly staples across the menu. Pizza (Plain Jane), chicken tenders, fries, and classic mac all show up in reviews as easy wins. Heat levels on hot chicken can be toned down, but truly picky kids may prefer the safer pies and tenders over spicier options.
At a Glance
- Standout mac and cheese and hot chicken options
- Creative pizzas with crisp crusts
- Fast, friendly service most visits
- Loud at peak with live music
- Parking is difficult; occasional reservation/wait issues
What Sets It Apart
- hot_chicken_pizza_twist
- upstairs_live_music
- mac_and_cheese_signature
What People Love
- Creamy mac with spicy chicken topping
- Crisp, flavorful pizzas like Plain Jane and Hot Chicken Pie
- Friendly bartenders with spot-on recs
- Quick ticket times even when busy
Points of Concern
- Occasional service lapses or curt interactions with specific staff reported, not the norm
- Waits at peak and sometimes even with reservations
- Isolated food misses (overcooked steak fingers, watery mac) among many positives
- Review patterns are balanced with high photo engagement; no strong templating concerns
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$35-$50 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For conservative palates: Plain Jane pizza or chicken tenders
- For spice lovers: Mac with hot chicken or Hot Chicken Sandwich
- Seafood pick: Catfish and Chips
Perfect For
- Pre-concert dinner near Broadway
- Group outings with mixed tastes
- Casual date with live music vibe
- Tourists seeking Nashville flavors without a honky-tonk crush
Location Insights
Area: Bustling tourist core near Broadway bars; high foot traffic, lively crowds, and music-forward venues.
Safety: Well-patrolled entertainment district; busy and generally safe, but late-night congestion and occasional disorder typical of bar zones.
Nearby: Steps from honky-tonks, live music bars, and riverfront; heavy weekend tourism; limited street parking.
DowntownThe Downtown neighborhood is bustling with activity, especially in the evenings, featuring a dynamic dining scene that ranges from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. It is a social hub with a strong emphasis on live music and nightlife, making it popular for both dining and entertainment.
SoBroSoBro (South of Broadway) is a trendy sub-area within Downtown Nashville known for its mix of modern bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It has a youthful, energetic vibe with a focus on live music and social gatherings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–22:00
Tuesday11:00–22:00
Wednesday11:00–22:00
Thursday11:00–22:00
Friday11:00–23:00
Saturday11:00–23:00
Sunday11:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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