Emma Robinson Emma Robinson | August 16, 2021 | Lifestyle, Travel,
A weekend spent traipsing around Nashville’s rocker-chic Bobby Hotel is guaranteed to cure your wanderlust.
Bobby Hotel offers a wide range of accommodations, including the one-bedroom Bobby suite shown here
Centrally located among the bustling cultural scene of downtown Nashville, Bobby Hotel (@bobbyhotel) is the go-to place for young travelers looking to fully immerse themselves in the magic of Music City. After opening in May 2018, the property has served as a refuge for artistic freedom as its grungy-yet-polished vibe gives guests the ultimate Nashville feel. With its mashup of interior styles full of odes to an artist’s life on the road, Bobby goes beyond providing guests with a cozy place to stay—it gives a historical view of Nashville’s cultural and nomadic ways of life. “The hotel plays on the local history and flair of the destination while celebrating the travels that a musician has while on the road,” says GM Jeff Crabiel. From the lobby’s chandelier constructed solely of car parts to suites with bedside journals of literary musings and record players, Bobby Hotel has engaging decor that brings a unique Nashville aesthetic that can’t be found anywhere else. Not to mention, the hotel hosts rotating art from the likes of Bernie Taupin, RISK and, coming this September, Tinney Contemporary.
The hotel prides itself on being a destination for musicians and travelers alike.
The vibrant artistic experience doesn’t end with Bobby, either, as guests’ senses will continue to be amazed as they step onto the streets of Germantown and East Nashville. Just a few minutes from the honky-tonks on Broadway or the outdoor adventures of Printer’s Alley, Bobby is at the center of it all. However, with its lengthy and luxurious list of amenities, the hotel may have you never wanting to leave once you’ve walked through its doors. From deluxe sleeps in the spacious two-bedroom Bobby suite to heartwarming playtime with the hotel’s resident pup, each and every corner of the boutique space makes you never want to check out.
The chic Rooftop Lounge
The hotel also has a selection of culinary getaways to ensure your taste buds have an equally successful trip. From the lively Rooftop Lounge that has served artists including Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert to the hotel’s signature restaurant, Tavern at Bobby, which wows guests with its edgy yet chic atmosphere, the culinary adventures are endless. “Our food and beverage venues on-property are casual, fun and a great place to gather,” says Jake Strang, director of culinary operations. “Good food and drink combined with great company, music and ambiance create a place that locals and hotel guests alike want to be part of.”
The two-bedroom Bobby suite
One of the property’s most popular venues, the Rooftop Lounge, is characterized by a repurposed 1965 Scenicruiser bus, perched high above the city for everyone to see. Other Instagram-worthy spots include the pool, which is also a great place for visitors to cool off while sipping on a chilled cocktail. Or grab one of the chic cabanas or lounge chairs and bask in the soaring skyline views.
The soaking tub found in the Bobby suite.
Other bar options include Bobby’s Garage, an edgy and calm atmosphere that adds to the hotel’s rock ’n’ roll aesthetic. Connected by the stairwell to Tavern at Bobby, the interior reflects that of a real garage workshop, with graffitied ceramic bathroom tiles; lamps made from gas pumps; and a main bar made from concrete, cinder blocks and forged fire doors. “You’d find me at the Garage Bar if I were a guest of the hotel. The gritty vibe, graffitied walls and laid-back attitude right on Printer’s Alley is not a spot that should be missed,” says Crabiel.
The interior design plays homage to Nashville’s music history
Adding to the food and beverage program is the charming European-inspired Café at Bobby, as well as the aforementioned Tavern at Bobby. With a breezy and relaxing outdoor patio; light and savory shareables, like truffle fries and avocado toast; and a selection of Coava Coffee Roasters blends, the cafe has all the tools to create a tasty and scenic afternoon. On the other hand, the tavern provides a contrasting setting to the cafe’s light, airy vibe with its brown vintage leather banquettes, trumpet chandeliers and wall decor composed of salvaged subway signs and lights. Focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients and strong libations, the Tavern at Bobby’s dinner menu features dishes like crab fried rice and lamb meatballs, along with vegetarian-friendly fare of mushroom and cauliflower Bolognese, and red curry lentils.
Bobby Hotel features a rotating lineup of artists
Between its out-of-the-box culinary concepts, picturesque skyline views, unbeatable location and rich character rooted in Nashville’s historic culture, Bobby Hotel has all the tools you need to make your stay in Nashville unforgettable. Road trip, anyone?
Photography by: Lida Diederich Photography