The Listening Room Cafe in Nashville is a premier live music venue and restaurant known for its intimate "songwriter rounds" where artists share the stories behind the hits they've written. Gayle, Jim, Erin, and I were here at the 6 PM show on 4/29/26 that featured Jason Duke, Keesy Trimmer, and Chris Bondi. We actually met Keesy when we were walking to the venue as his car pulled up and he asked if we were heading to the Listening Room? When we said yes, he was very excited. We were too at the end of the evening, with all of us agreeing that this was one of, if not the highlight of our trip to Nashville. The Listening Room itself is a large and acoustically solid room within what looked like an old International Harvester Farm Equipment Building. Food and Drink are served and I believe there was a minimum in addition to the admission price. This is normally not a place that you can walk in, so buy your tickets early. We found the food to be "adequate", the service very good, and a 5 Star show experience. Each songwriter took turns with a number, explained some background on it, name dropped artists who recorded their songs, and told some great stories. It seems like the Nashville songwriting community knows each other well, which might explain the easy familiarity all 3 had with each other and their individual song writing efforts. We might have related to Chris Bondi a little more, especially after singing the "I Bet You Would Have Loved Her" tear jerker, and a really funny one on getting high while skiing. Keesy had a great one about a boat and "Time Makes Money Look Cheap" cowritten by him and others and recorded by Chris Janson. Jason Duke showcased "Dibs" that was recorded by Kelsea Ballerini. Or was it "That Could Still Be Us" performed by Keith Urban? Our only regret was that tickets were still available for the 9 PM show (with a new songwriting team) and we passed it up. Post Note: Gayle's song title idea for Keesy: Don't go Puking on my Boots. :) read more

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Music and talent was great! These were songwriters who have written music for big name country singers. And they were really great singers themselves. Nice commentary in between songs telling stories. This place is quite big. We were seated in the upstairs balcony as we were a group of about 40 people. The view was good if you were at the end of the table adjacent to the balcony. For appetizers our table ordered the chicken wings dry rub which were really good - hot, well cooked tender and crispy outside. Sweet potato fries were good and others had the pretzels with cheese sauce. For my main meal I ordered the southwest salad with turkey (cubed) - which was fine. Overall a good experience! read more

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Large space, probably seats around 250. Two-tops are in front by the stage (table seating) and on the back and sides (high top seating). A bit worn, not unexpectedly, but comfortable. Do arrive early. You'll check in when you arrive and will be assigned tables first come first served. So very well organized, and better assigned seating earlier (and if a couple, more likely to get a 2 top). Love that they have shows during the day on Saturday. We attended a 1pm show/brunch and it was nearly completely full. Great opportunity to hear professional singer/songwriters telling stories, joking, and singing their own songs. Three did rounds for about an hour and a half. B grade bar food. They're not going to get a Michelin star anytime soon, but you won't leave hungry. We found the service to be friendly, helpful and professional. read more

It was amazing to hear the original song writers to some of the worlds best songs. (Country for today). It's a $15 per person minimum when you sit at a table. The food is fun food a lots good and reasonable. The music was amazing. Great fun with friends and family. read more

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This by far was our favorite thing we did in Nashville. Food was great and listening to the stories behind the songs and hearing them perform them was so much fun. Highly recommend. read more

Listening Room Cafe - Songwriters - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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So awesome for out of town visitors & for the locals! You could reserve your spot ahead of time and it's a similar layout to Zanies if you have been to a comedy show in Nashville. It's a large room with several tables and a large stage - there's 3-4 singers & they do I believe 5 rounds. These are big name songwriters for the most part! read more

I stopped in with fellow conference attendees and had a great time in the listening room. The atmosphere was relaxed, and it was a nice way to wind down after a full day. The pretzels with beer cheese dip were especially tasty--warm, soft, and perfect with a drink. Overall, a really enjoyable spot for good music, conversation, and a quick bite. read more

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The drinks were great. The food was good. But, the entertainment was a MUST see. This was our favorite experience of our visit. Not only do you get to listen to great music, you get to hear the stories behind the songs. This filled my country-loving heart read more

Listening Room Cafe - The stage that holds great artists and their stories. - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

It was cool to listen to songwriters perform their original songs that may be sung professionally by other artists. They also had many singer songwriters. All very talented musicians. I discovered a few songs I still listen to from The Listening Room, The food was good too. Loved the banana pudding. If you're on a budget, the honkey tonks have music that is also similarly good and free, but this is a good way to support musicians. read more

Listening Room Cafe - Burger and onion rings - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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we got tickets early and it was a good decision because it was almost full house. I thoroughly loved our lineup (kylie frey, emma zinck, marla cannon-goodman), they were all very empowering and inspiring women with amazing voices and songwriting. the ambiance was more intimate and I appreciated the music a lot. food was also decent, they were more elevated than your average bar food for sure. I tried the: - off broadway ($12): a very sweet and fruity mocktail, balanced with citrus-y and acidic flavors - sweet potato tots ($12): huge portion, perfectly crispy outside and soft inside - shoulda been a cowboy burger, double ($19), with bacon brussel sprouts: the bacon jam was everything! - piggy mac ride ($21) with brisket: very generous brisket and bacon, and the pasta was al dented read more

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Such a cool experience! Very intimate setting where we were able to listen and learn about some of the biggest hits in country music. The performers were funny, knew how to captivate the crowd and were just there to have a good time like the rest of us. The tater tots were phenomenal but other than that the food didn't hit the mark. I'd suggest if you attend an event here, skip the food and stick with just drinks. Can't wait to make this a staple for when company comes to visit! read more

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Well, first let's start this off with why you visit the listening room--for the music and the experience of hearing all about what it's like for these writers! All of that made this place soooo worth it! We saw 3 artists--Adam Craig, Mark Irwin, and Luke Stevens--all had their own unique style and were so awesome to kick back and listen to. We ordered food and had some cider, and while it was pretty good, it was not the best thing I've ever eaten, but our server was great..quick and friendly!! We got to listen to about an hour and a half of music--all written by these talented musicians, and fun fact--Adam Craig grew up just down the road from us in Washington State! He was our favorite, btw! read more

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Fear not if you don't get a seat at the Bluebird Cafe! You get a similar experience here with the lovely added bonus of valet parking. The business has moved numerous times but no matter. They keep recreating the magic. The stories behind the songs while you sip! The food menu will not win any awards, but if you are hungry, you will find some good options. We are locals and we enjoy it here! read more

Listening Room Cafe - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

I had a really great experience at this venue. The tickets were $25 and there is a minimum spend of $15. Like other reviewers mentioned, the food was not amazing. I ordered the brisket, which came with two sides - selected the potato salad and the mac and cheese. Should I go again, and I absolutely will next time I visit Nashville, I will likely have dinner before and then go here for drinks. When we arrived, we were offered a bottle of water at no cost. The Listening Room was one of my favorite experiences on this trip to Nashville. It was an opportunity to get an intimate listening experience with songwriters to learn about their process; who they work with; what their current projects are; their wins and losses; how they got started and where they are headed. Expect it to be a listening experience with chatter down to a minimum. The audience was relatively quiet. Casual vibe. read more

Food is okay but you really go for the music! Saying that, the dry rub chicken wings were delicious and the turkey sandwich was good. Wine selection okay, and overall they had an extensive menu. Service was awesome! It's amazing how they get you in and out, fed and watered, all with the musicians playing! read more

Listening Room Cafe - Awesome musicians! - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

One of my must do's everytime I'm in town. I like that the main stage has a lot of seating and honestly there's no bad seat in the house. I love hearing the stories behind the music and all the songwriters are so passionate about their work. The staff hustle throughout the show to make sure you're comfortable and take orders efficiently. I never have to wait too long for my drink. They have a large food menu and there's something for everyone. There is a $15 food/drink minimum per person on top of the ticket price during the evening shows, but that's easily covered with 2 drinks or an app. If you're in town, definitely check out one of the shows here. read more

Listening Room Cafe - Great music from amazing songwriters - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Worth getting tickets for the live show! You're invited to a back room with a improv type stage. Ample seating but a little tight knit. Food was average. I got the bbq platter. The show really shined! Good service. Working hard to also stay quiet and not interfere with the show. read more

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Love this venue for singer/songwriter shows. Easy parking, as they have valet. Though late after 1 show they had sent the actual valet "home", so we were just handed our keys with zero clue as to where it was parked. That sucked. But usually there is someone there when the show gets out. Friendly service. Deducting a star because the food is "mediocre". Typical bar type food, usually not hot by the time you get it. Oh, not an actual "full bar". They say it is, but a few drinks we asked for, they had zero clue about or said they didn't carry the stuff to make them. It all in all, not bad. Again, we go there for the actual shows, NOT the food/drink. read more

I enjoyed this place! I got the brunch burger and it was really good! I didn't have big expectations for this place since it's more about the music but the food was great, no complaints! The fries were delicious and the service was great. Really enjoyed this place! read more

What a unique and fun experience! I'd heard so many great things and finally got to go see a show and it was fantastic! The three songwriters shared stories and sang their songs. It was amazing to hear their experiences and their ideas for songs or the different artists they worked with. The space is large and even though the tables are close together, it felt spacious. The waiter was great and friendly as well. The food itself was fine. I got a smash burger and fries and it was good. I don't think I'd go for the food, but it's a must see in Nashville! read more

Had such an awesome time here on Thursday night. We got to see Marcus Hummon and his son Levi Hummon, Sarah Burton and Ian Fichuck. All had super cool stories and backgrounds. The food was not the best. Personally I would skip on the food next time and stick with the drinks. They require a $15 minimum purchase for each guest. Below is what we ordered: - Chili cheese fries; super dry and needed sour cream but they didn't have it. Fries were soggy and could tell it was microwaved - Off broadway mocktail; so amazing. fruity drink that would be good with alcohol too! Definitely order this one!! - Smash burger double. I thought it was good but my mom did not. It's good with all of the stuff on it. -Buffalo chicken dip; you could tell it was reheated in the microwave. Chicken was dry and it wasn't good. Our waiter was super nice and was checking on us appropriately with the timing. She was pregnant so props to her working in this heat. The overall decoration of the place is so pretty. I love the vibes inside of it. They have the back area you pay for and then the front for lesser known artists where you can listen to for free. It is cold in the back so bring a sweatshirt just in case. read more

Listening Room Cafe - Levi Hummon - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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TBH, the Listening Room wasn't on the top of my list for a songwriter's showcase but I couldn't get tickets to that other famous place so here we are. But now, having been to TLR, I don't think I'm ever going to fight for tickets again. Our show was on the main stage. The room seats a couple hundred people - not intimate but not overwhelming either. We were seated in the far corner against the back wall. I wasn't thrilled with our seats but our server, Seth, assured us that the high top allowed us to see over the crowd. He was absolutely right - the seats were so good that I'd even request them. Just as you'd expect, the songwriters told the background stories behind their songs and then sang them. The camaraderie between the performers lent to the fun. I hesitate to even write this because I don't know his name, but a country chart topping performer was in the audience and was beckoned to the stage. The songwriters were all good singers but this guy's projection was amazing! Our tickets were only $10 each - prices vary by time and day - anywhere from free to about $25. There is a minimum spend of $15 per person. We had already eaten but everyone around us seemed to be enjoying their food. Our drinks were $16 each so reaching that $15 was a breeze. The drinks were a little hit and miss. I started with the Cowboy Killer. It was good but heavy on the sour, not so much on the alcohol. My second drink, Uncle Zebo's Margarita was completely opposite. It was so strong that I couldn't drink it. I should have asked for some additional mix but by then, I was more than wiped out by our crazy Nashville day. I wouldn't call The Listening Room a hidden gem, it's actually pretty well known, but I will say that this is going to be my new spot to enjoy songwriters and new artists when I'm in Nashville. read more

Listening Room Cafe - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Saw a songwriters show. It was excellent. Service was very good. Food was a disappointment. Thin, dry cuts of brisket. Slaw with no flavor. Average beans. If they can raise their food game, I would go back for sure. read more

I really enjoy coming here every time that I am in town. The experience is unique each time. We dropped in at 4 pm on a Sat on Easter weekend. Great performance by Michael. Very relax vibe to enjoy the music vs the too loud and obnoxious scene on Broadway. A pitcher of margarita was perfect for spending an hour there. read more

Listening Room Cafe - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Really enjoyed the experience here - had small bites at the bar and some drinks - bartender was really cool and friendly - loved how intimate the setting was so you could really hear the artists singing and speaking - ambiance is casual and chill - highly recommend read more

Love the ambiance!! The drinks could use a little help. The old fashioned was too sweet without a cube. Our server was nice the food was ok but not great. read more

Listening Room Cafe - Stage - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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Live love love!!! We loved listening to the songwriters and their stories! We got the chicken wings that were delicious and the waffle that was to die for! Most of the wait staff or singers that are trying to get into the music industry! It was a fun couple of hours! read more

Oh my goodness we had Toni. She was great love the food. Everything was fantastic. But I was sweating my ass off. And it was very hot. But I love the singers songwriters. So good. Two of our members of the party did have to leave. Love them, but it was hot anyways. It was a great vibe all around. And I will be back. If you can turn on the HVAC. Thank you. I love you Toni. Love it here! Just a little HVAC would be great! read more

I have been dreaming of this place ever since my sister told me about it. What an amazing concept? Having the song writers explain how they wrote the song and who picked unit up all the while singing the song. Nashville has a lot to offer, but this is an experience you will not want to miss out on. We went for the songs and stories, but we didn't know that these guys were straight comedians. We had an absolute blast listening to music and laughing with these guys. Absolute amazing show. read more

Listening Room Cafe - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Went there for a light dinner. I ordered the Apple Turnkey Salad with Ranch as the sauce. They also provided water labeled with their brand, which was worth collecting. The salad tasted refreshing, with some crispy onions and feta cheese of appropriate amounts. All balanced!!! Also loved the singer with beautiful voice and lovely music. Love this city!!! read more

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The service was fantastic. The show was absolutely amazing! If you want intimate real music and entertainment, this place is it. I got up at 4 am to get here... sooo worth it. read more

Outstanding singers!(5 stars) Food and service is the reason for the low score. Cold onion rings Be aware that You will get charge if you ask for ketchup Don't get the piggy Mac--doesn't taste good Turkey apple salad was ok but would have been better if turkey wasn't in large cubes. Would probably get it without turkey next time Lastly Make sure you check your bill as they automatically charge you with 20% gratuity and the waiter didn't tell us. Hard to see in the dark when paying bill while music is going. We will go back for the show for the songwriters, not the food. read more

Easy reservations for a friend's birthday dinner. Great service from Alex and great food! Loved the live music too.

I lovingly call this place: The Loud Room. The acoustics at this venue are awful. Wood floors, high ceilings, exposed piping, metal furniture, add in random glass clanking noises from the bar, wait staff serving them and more noise from plates of food being served, people talking the entire time the artist is playing...you get it. This venue has some of the best, not so hidden gem, song writers. Their collaboration nights with seasonal themes always make me wish the audience was more respectful. I get Nashville is a tourist town but do we really need more white booties, sashes and pink cowboy hats in the audience (sitting at the front table) clamoring for yet another selfie? read more

What a gem! So glad we found this spot right outside of downtown Nashville. Live music and dinner (lunch/brunch). Truly some amazing talent is here. Not being on Broadway, there was definitely a chill vibe listening to acoustic guitar and beautiful voices. Depending on what time you go, tickets are free to $30. There is a food and beverage minimum, but it's reasonable. We went to a main stage show at 6:00pm on a Thursday evening. Tickets were $20 (including taxes) and a $15 food and beverage minimum per person. We started with cocktails, Buffalo chicken dip, and beer cheese. Good amount to share for 4 people. After our appetizers, we ordered entrees. My husband got the piggy Mac and cheese and I got a smash burger with sweet potato tots. The server will come to your table so no need to disturb the performance. Definitely would come back here! read more

What a comfortable venue with a variety of musicians that perform the music they wrote. $15 food/drink minimum but provided a varied menu of salads, wraps and entrees. I had the turkey apple wrap. It was very good. I purchased tickets online ahead of time so everything was very easy when we arrived. The venue shirts were very reasonably priced with a decent assortment. The music was incredible. The talent in Nashville is just awesome. A colleague of mine recommended this place and I was not disappointed at all. I would highly recommend attending a show. read more

Listening Room Cafe - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

We've had the pleasure of attending a couple performances. Comfortable seating arrangement with lots of long tables fanning out from the stage. You are provided with complimentary bottled water. Table service is excellent! The food is delivered during the performance. Everyone in our group was pleased with the menu selections. I would suggest making reservations. It can get quite crowded. Parking isn't the best. We park across the street in the Pay By the Hour lot. read more

This was such a cool experience!! All 3 of the artists we had the chance to listen to were very good, and funny! This was definitely a highlight of our trip. The food and drinks are decent here too. read more

Listening Room Cafe - Stage - American Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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This is a fantastic venue to enjoy live music. The food is good, drinks are quality and venue is very clean. The negative is the arrival process is very unorganized with zero staff available to welcome guests and explain what to do. They state doors open 30 minutes before but in reality the inside check in venue opens much earlier to eat / order drinks at front bar. Once you get your seat card when the doors open you have to wait in a line to be taken to the table but there is only one person at a small check in desk so everyone rushes inside and sits where they want. Zero leadership management prescience during my show. read more

Great acoustic lounge in Nashville. Staff was nice and friendly. Parking is a little difficult, you may have to pay depending on what time you go. $15 food/drink minimum. But the food was good!! Especially the sweet potato tots. Modern industrial vibe inside, a bit chilly so bring a jacket. read more

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