Best St. Paddy's Day Spots

In Middle Tennessee, our pubs offer a delightful blend of fun and flavorful food, creating vibrant social hubs for locals and visitors alike. These establishments often feature live music, trivia nights, and other events, fostering a lively atmosphere where guests can unwind and connect.

The food scene is equally enticing, with many pubs serving up delicious Southern-inspired dishes alongside classic pub fare. From hearty burgers and crispy fried chicken to savory BBQ and comforting mac 'n' cheese, there's something to satisfy every craving. Pair these delectable dishes with a craft beer from a local brewery or a signature cocktail, and you have the perfect recipe for a relaxed lunch or a memorable night out.

The following ten pubs are our picks for the best pubs in Middle Tennessee.

McCreary's
414 Main St | Franklin

Natasha Hendrix transitioned from a waitress to the owner of McCreary's, a family-oriented establishment known for its quality service and food. She started as a server in 2002 and took over ownership in 2009, maintaining the focus on service and food quality while introducing a weekend breakfast menu and a varied liquor selection.

McCreary's remains a collaborative effort within Hendrix's family, with her sister as the general manager and her brother-in-law as the kitchen manager. We love the food, particularly the beef and cabbage dish and the Reuben sandwich. The atmosphere is comfortable, welcoming, and casual.

In our opinion, McCreary's smaller size and cozy ambiance are part of its charm. Like any popular pub, it can get loud, but this reflects the rich community interactions that happen here! Their live music, especially Irish music, completes the authentic pub experience.

The Lost Paddy
715 Spence Ln | Nashville

The Lost Paddy is an Irish pub and restaurant in founded by Micheal O'Leary. Since opening in May 2019, it has become known for its traditional Irish dishes and live entertainment. The pub offers a familiar, family-friendly atmosphere and shows sports events throughout the week. Live music is a highlight at The Lost Paddy, with different lively bands or solo singers performing nightly!

The interior features thick wooden accents, creating a cozy atmosphere. In addition to the great selection of beers, the menu offers a variety of both classic and innovative Irish dishes. The Reuben sandwich and Shepherd's pie are standout favorites, but everything on the menu is delicious. 

McNamara's
2740 Old Lebanon Rd | Nashville

McNamara's, established in 2010 by Sean McNamara, fosters an authentic Irish pub experience. The pub's founders aim to recreate the warm and inviting atmosphere found in pubs across Ireland, with a focus on traditional Irish fare, drinks, music, and great service at an affordable price.

The menu offers a comprehensive selection of Irish dishes, including Shepherd's pie, Guinness pie, Irish stew, ribeye sandwich, and more. Vegetarian options are also available. The dessert menu is highly recommended, with offerings that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

The pub features live music and decor that includes historical photographs, Gaelic sports memorabilia, Irish music albums, instruments, and tin pub signs. We love the cozy atmosphere, outstanding food, and live bands that perform on both levels of the venue.

The Pub
400 11th Ave S | Nashville

The Pub, located in The Gulch neighborhood of Nashville, offers a cozy and fun dining experience with a British theme. We love their reasonable prices, delicious food, and excellent service. The restaurant's location is convenient for visitors to our beautiful region, particularly those staying in nearby hotels with limited dining options.

Despite being a larger restaurant, The Pub maintains a cozy atmosphere. Menu highlights include crispy fish and chips, rich beer cheese, and a rotating selection of seasonal and holiday-themed drinks. Service here is also good, and there is usually room at the bar for those looking for a quick bite to eat while exploring The Gulch.

CP Between the Lakes
4136 N Mt Juliet Rd | Mt. Juliet

CP Between the Lakes, formerly known as Corner Pub, has a rich history dating back to around 2013 as part of the local chain "Corner Pub." In 2019, the restaurant was sold to one of the original partial owners, Jason Gregory, who renamed it after his son, Carmyne, to CP Between the Lakes.

We love this restaurant’s dedication to providing a welcoming environment with memorably good food and drinks. The Pub boasts 22 flatscreen TVs, 26 beers on tap, a variety of bottled beers, and signature cocktails, making it an ideal spot for regular visits.

The Pub cultivates a relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and great selection of pub grub, including salads, sandwiches, and BBQ. The smoked wings are particularly popular here, and visitors appreciate the oversized booths. The Pub is family friendly as well. If your little one gets restless, we suggest a visit to the chalk wall to help keep them entertained.

Fleet Street
207 Printers Alley | Nashville

Fleet Street Pub is a charming and authentic British-style pub with a storied history and a dedication to providing a true pub experience. The new owner has added some cozy touches like comfy sofas, a selection of books, and several board games, all while maintaining the pub's original charm. They take pride in their menu of chef-made eats and wide selection of both British and local beers.

We love the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy good food and drinks while watching international football or playing darts. The pub's location in Printers Alley adds to its appeal, offering a unique experience away from the hustle and bustle of Broadway.

The Front Street Pub 
104 Front St | Smyrna

The Front Street Pub in Smyrna is a delightful spot with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The new owner, Thomas Williams, has maintained the tavern's charm and community-oriented vibe, which has consistently garnered praise from patrons. The addition of live music and an expanded menu have been liked by all, with a few of our favorites being the burgers and the nostalgic fried bologna sandwich.

There is a definite personal touch and the sense of community at the pub, and it feels like a gathering place for friends. Bring yours, and enjoy a relaxing night out at the Front Street Pub.

Germantown Pub
708 Monroe St. | Nashville

The Germantown Pub in Nashville's historic Germantown neighborhood is a popular spot beloved for its welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious food. We love the handcrafted dishes, including Nashville hot chicken sandwiches, flavorful wings, loaded fries, and juicy burgers, as well as its selection of drinks and drink specials. 

The pub offers a laid-back vibe and a focus on customer service that manages to be both quick and friendly. The establishment is family-friendly during dinner service, making it an inclusive spot for all guests.

The Donelson
945 Allen Rd | Nashville

The Donelson is a treasure of a local spot known for its cold beer, live music, and friendly atmosphere. It offers a range of events, including pool nights, ladies' nights, live music from bands like The Royal Swine, and sports viewing parties. The pub has a homey feel, and we love its welcoming staff and affordable prices. The Donelson Pub is a vibrant spot where people gather for good company and great beer, making it an easy neighborhood favorite.

Corner Pub
151 5th Ave N | Nashville

The Corner Pub Downtown is a bustling, popular spot in downtown Nashville, especially for watching sports games. It offers a wide selection of beers on tap, a long wall of high-definition TVs for viewing every game, fight, or event, and a large bar area. We love the friendly staff, good food, and great atmosphere. The happy hour deals, including half-price beers and discounted appetizers, are the perfect excuse to stop by.

The Takeaway

Whether you’re looking for an authentic Irish pub for the upcoming festivities or a reliably outstanding local pub to call your regular spot, our top ten list will act as your guide. Even if you’re only in our region for a weekend, there is bound to be a top-notch pub nearby anywhere you are in Middle Tennessee. Sláinte!