"Melrose Billiard Parlor is a decades-old pool hall thriving in a basement on 8th Ave., and it’s the poster child for unpretentious dive bars in Nashville. Known for being the late John Prine’s favorite bar, the “Dirty Melrose” (as it’s called), slings lots of beer and shots of Tequila-Red Bull (priced like they were in ‘97). Expect giant neon signs, free popcorn, and rows of pool tables that you can rent for just $9 per hour—unless the bartender likes you, then maybe the pool is free. The room is dark and always a little dingy, but that’s part of its charm. On any given weeknight, you’ll stand shoulder to shoulder with local songwriters and music legends like Jack White or Dan Auerbach (leave them alone, please), reaching for another handful of popcorn while regulars hustle newbies at games of Snooker and Eight-ball." - adam sloan
