Tootsie's Orchid Lounge
Last updated 7.22.09
What People Are Saying About Tootsie's Orchid Lounge
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short – In the '60s, owner "Tootsie" Bess had a soft spot for struggling writers and nurtured the stomachs--and bar tabs--of greats like Roger Miller, Kris Kristofferson and Willie Nelson. Today, the purple facade anchors Lower Broadway's colorful past, and the interior walls are crowded with publicity stills of the greats, the hopefuls and never-wills who came to town chasing dreams. Ultimately, this is the place locals insist on taking visitors when touring Nashville's nightlife.
Tootsie's is the place to be!
by xdaisy7x at Citysearch
We too stopped in at Tootsies because of it's reputation. It can be a little shocking that it is so small and rundown, but if you are willing to appreciate it's history- you'll have a great time. We heard some great bands there, namely Jake Mauer and Joanna Smith. Both were excellent artists and knew how to put on a great show! On top of that though, they both had an amazing fiddle player. I believer her name was Kari Nelson. Wow. That girl can play and entertain a crowd.... when she started rocking out Devil went down to Georgia- the crowd literally doubled! We had a great time and stayed for the entire gig. Give the place a chance and enjoy the night out!
- Pros: great music, great fiddle player, good drinks
- Cons: crowded
A Classic Nashville Spot
by laceydoo at Citysearch
I love Tootsie's. It's totally a tourist stop, but I can't help but have a good time. The bartenders are really good and most are friendly. The upstairs has an outdoor area, which is small, but the only place smokers can be! Two floors, two bars, and two bands. Also, Tootsie's has no cover charge. If you can stand the crowd and the pricey drinks, it's definitely worthwhile. I live here and enjoy it very much. It's a great place to take out of town guests who may not be in touch with their "honkey tonk" side!
- Pros: Can't help but have fun here
- Cons: not cheap / crowded
A Blast from the past
by TCB at Citysearch
I was priviliged to meet Tootsie, She was a grand lady. She treated you like you were her friend. She is missed by all that knew her. She put my records on her jukebox and my picture on the wall before anyone else did.
I thought a lot of her. The greats and the has beens and the never was, were her friends. She helped so many. I know she has a place in heaven and still serves that good chili and keeps order with that famous hat pin.
- Pros: You can feel the past when you walk thru the door
- Cons: I can't visit enough
The Details on Tootsie's Orchid Lounge
Know Before You Go:
Be sure to go upstairs and see the back bar and the back door. This is how the Opry stars came in.
Category:
Nightclubs, Tours & Excursions, Bars & Pubs
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, Discover, MasterCard
Bar & Club Type of Music:
Bar & Club Special Features:
Smoking Permitted:
Yes







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