Melrose Billiard Parlor

"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

"Melrose Billiards stands out among Nashville dives thanks to the sheer amount of activities they offer: multiple pool, ping pong, and foosball tables, dartboards, and a shuffleboard setup all available for those bored of small talk. Originally established in 1944, they’ve been through it: flooding, no-holds-barred indoor smoking, and a temporary closing in 2016. But the “Dirty Melrose” persists, thanks to current owners who reopened the neighborhood’s favorite basement bar with a little spitshine, but plenty of the old character. The bar has standard local beers and liquor mixed drinks, plus all the free popcorn your little heart desires." - bailey freeman, ann walczak

"Melrose Billiards stands out among Nashville dives thanks to the sheer amount of activities they offer: multiple pool, ping pong, and foosball tables, dartboards, and a shuffleboard setup all available for those bored of small talk. Originally established in 1944, they’ve been through it: flooding, no-holds-barred indoor smoking, and a temporary closing in 2016. But the “Dirty Melrose” persists, thanks to current owners who reopened the neighborhood’s favorite basement bar with a little spitshine, but plenty of the old character. The bar has standard local beers and liquor mixed drinks, plus all the free popcorn your little heart desires." - Bailey Freeman

"Melrose Billiard Parlor was reopened a few years back and given a spit shine by Austin Ray (M.L. Rose, the Sutler) and his team. You’ll find pool tables, ping pong, shuffleboard, darts, and more throughout the joint. Happy hour runs from 4 to 8 p.m. with all beers and well liquor priced at $4. Food options are pretty basic here: cheese and pepperoni pizza and $2 snacks." - Jackie Gutierrez-Jones, Eater Staff

"Melrose Billiard Parlor will be closed indefinitely due to at least 2-feet of standing water on the floor." - Delia Jo Ramsey