Nashville’s New Honky-Tonk, Buddy’s, Set to Open in 2025 at The Arcade

Nashville Welcomes New Honky-Tonk: Buddy’s Set to Open in The Arcade

Nashville, a city renowned for its vibrant music scene and down-home vibe, is set to welcome a new player in its nightlife arena. A small honky-tonk named Buddy’s is gearing up to open its doors in early 2025, bringing with it a touch of nostalgia and a cozy atmosphere right in the heart of The Arcade.

A Slice of History Meets Modern Vibes

The Arcade, which has been a staple of Nashville since 1902, is the perfect backdrop for Buddy’s, measuring approximately 900 square feet. This quaint space will be operated by an energetic team known for their local bars, one of which is the popular Pearl Diver located in East Nashville. The ownership crew boasts names like Jamie White, Corey Ladd, Shaun Folad, and Micah Copeland, who have collectively curated an impressive repertoire of neighborhood spots including Lucky’s 3 Star, GoodTimes Full Service, Tiger Bar, and Roy’s Tavern.

White, the guitarist for Nashville’s own The Pink Spiders, expressed excitement about the new project. “Buddy’s will cater to musicians, service industry workers, locals, and tourists who appreciate Nashville’s history,” he revealed. With a carefully selected playlist of classic country tunes in the works, it sounds like the perfect place for music lovers to unwind.

A Special Tribute

The name Buddy’s pays homage to the legendary Buddy Spicher, an 86-year-old fiddle virtuoso and the grandfather of Corey Ladd. Spicher’s incredible legacy includes collaborations with music titans like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, and many more iconic artists who have shaped Nashville’s sound. White elaborated, “Buddy’s will not only pay tribute to him but also to the countless musicians who have intertwined their magic into the fabric of Nashville’s music scene.”

In an interesting twist, White noted that Buddy’s will be one of the few honky-tonks named after an instrumentalist rather than a vocalist. “Our goal is to shine a light on the musicians who form the backbone of the music we hold dear,” he said, emphasizing the importance of honoring the unsung heroes of country music.

What Will Buddy’s Offer?

While Buddy’s won’t feature live music, it intends to foster a lively atmosphere where guests can enjoy the spirit of Nashville. Moreover, locals will be able to take advantage of a special discount on their purchases, making it a welcoming hangout for residents and visitors alike.

As for the financial side of things, the ownership team isn’t divulging details about the costs associated with getting Buddy’s operational or the terms of their lease. What we do know, however, is that The Arcade itself changed hands not too long ago; local real estate veteran Rob Lowe and Linfield Capital from New York City purchased the building for a whopping $28 million in April 2021.

A Legacy in a Living Landmark

The Arcade, located at 65 Arcade Alley, holds a rich history as Nashville’s first “shopping center,” evolving from Overton Alley to a bustling retail epicenter. Its Italian arcade-style design makes it a unique attraction within the city. Now, with Buddy’s set to join its ranks, it promises to add another layer of charm and excitement to this storied landmark.

As we look towards 2025, it’s clear that Buddy’s is not just preparing to serve drinks and hospitality; it aims to create a community hub where the heartbeat of Nashville’s music can still be felt and celebrated. We can’t wait to raise a glass in honor of Buddy Spicher and all the artists who have made this city what it is today!