Ole Red

In 1990, George Jones recorded a song that Blake Shelton covered on his debut album in 2002. And now that song title lives on in bright lights on Broadway as the name of Shelton’s bar: Ole Red.

Ole Red has four stories, including a rooftop “glam meets grit” lounge called The Lookout, with good food, fun cocktails, live music, and impeccable views of Music City. You never know if Blake himself will show up—especially now that Ole Red is the set for Shelton and Carson Daly’s new show Barmageddon.  

I mentioned live music, which is an incredibly important part of the vibe to Shelton. He wanted to create a spot where people could eat, drink, dance, and be entertained: to “have a good time as soon as they walk in the door,” as Shelton puts it. You can go on the bar’s website to see who’s playing when, but each act is worth catching live.

While you’re online, check out Ole Red’s full menu. Here are some of my favorites: Redneck Nachos (tortilla chips, taco meat, white queso, corn salsa, pickled red onions, black olives, and avocado cream), Southern Tater Tot Poutine (pulled pork, white gravy, white cheddar curds, green onions, fried egg, and Ole Red Hot Sauce), the Kiss My Country Grilled Chicken Sammich (Balsamic marinated chicken breast, jalapeño and peach jam, white cheddar, red onion, and arugula, on a potato bun), and Shrimp ‘n’ Grits with ham gravy, blistered cherry tomato, and arugula salad. There’s even a kid’s menu if you bring your “lil’ honky-tonkers” along.

Wash it all down with a soda, mocktail, or a draft beer in a take-home souvenir cup. Or liven up the night with one of these cocktails: the Some Beach (with spiced rum, blue Curaçao, banana, fresh lime juice, and pineapple), Tennessee ‘Rita (with Jack Daniels, of course), or the super southern Warden (which will remind you of the lyrics to “Ol’ Red” and is made with bourbon, peach, iced tea and fresh lemon juice).

All the dancing (or at least toe-tapping) will get you ready for dessert. You can pick from one of three mason jar treats: banana pudding, cheesecake, or “Blake’s Choice,” which is a rotating surprise. Just ask your server what the treat of the day is when you’re there.

You’ve got plenty of reasons to come to Ole Red, whether you’re touring the city for the first time or have lived here your whole life!

Hey, if you’ve already been to this spot, what did you think? Send me your thoughts! I’d love to hear.