Lived there from 2013-2015 in the gulch.
the best honkey tonk is Roberts western world. Hands down. All the locals think so too.
the Patterson house is the best cocktail bar in town too. It’s very classy.
If dive bars is more you’re thing, then go to either Melrose (got plenty of pool tables), the spring water, or the villager. Those were my personal favorite spots in town, especially since you can smoke inside.
5 pts pizza in east Nashville is the best pizza place in town.
Gabby a burgers is also a local favorite, and a lot of people consider B&c melrose the best bbq in town (get the pork over grits). I also liked burger republic in the gulch. My personal home base as a bar was bar Louis there.
If you’re in on Sunday, then go to Hattie bs chicken and waffles morning/brunch special, it’s the best chicken and waffles in town. There will be a long line so be there earlyish.
I agree about centennial park. It’s a very nice park to visit.
As far as venues go to see more local rock n roll acts, then check out 8 of 8th at the mercy lounge on Monday evenings, it’s a younger college type crowd but it’s still fun if you love rock music like me.
Motown Monday’s was also a thing at the 5 spot, but it’s also a college like crowd.