Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

About Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

Tootsie’s opened in 1960, which makes it the oldest honky-tonk on Broadway and the one carrying the most genuine history. Hattie Louise Bess, known as Tootsie, bought the bar that year and painted it the shade of purple it still wears today. Its back door opens onto the alley behind the Ryman Auditorium, and during the years the Grand Ole Opry was staged at the Ryman, performers would slip across between sets for a drink. Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Waylon Jennings, Roger Miller and Patsy Cline all spent time here before they were famous. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has recognized the building.

Inside there are three floors, each with its own stage and its own band, plus a rooftop. It runs loud and packed most nights of the week. The crowd is mostly visitors and spans all ages, and for anyone seeing Broadway for the first time, Tootsie’s is usually the one name they recognize before they arrive.

Tootsie’s is the real thing rather than a recreation of it, and that authenticity is the reason to come. It is not the spot for a quiet conversation or a sit-down meal. Go for the history and the music, expect a crowd, and come earlier in the day if you want room to move. There is no reservation system, and drink prices stay on the lower, more old-school end for Broadway. If you only have time for one honky-tonk on the street, make it this one.

Who’s playing tonight?

The live-music lineup for Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is part of the Bars on Broadway schedule, refreshed every morning and night. Check tonight’s Broadway lineup →