When the holiday season rolls around, most teams know the drill: buffet lines, awkward icebreakers, and a playlist that still includes “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” But this year, Nashville’s changing the script. Forget the hotel ballroom. These local hotspots promise atmosphere, flavor, and fun with a side of Southern charm. Whether your crew prefers smoky BBQ, craft cocktails, or competitive games, these venues will make your office party one to actually remember.
Peg Leg Porker: Smoke, Sauce, and Southern Spirit
There’s nothing “standard” about celebrating at Peg Leg Porker, where award-winning pitmaster Carey Bringle’s world-famous dry ribs and pulled pork sandwiches turn any gathering into a feast. Located in the heart of The Gulch, this James Beard–recognized BBQ joint offers private event options that bring the flavors of Tennessee to life. Think backyard vibes with an upscale twist!
Between the bold rubs, smoky bourbon cocktails, and plenty of napkins, Peg Leg Porker nails that mix of casual and memorable. Rent out the upstairs private dining space for panoramic city views, or keep it low-key on the patio under string lights that feel straight out of a Southern holiday movie.
Be sure to book early. Nashville locals know there’s no better way to toast the year’s wins than with a rib in one hand and a whiskey in the other!
Photo Credit: Robertson & Co.
Old Glory: Cocktails in a Former Boiler Room
Hidden in the historic Edgehill neighborhood, Old Glory is the offshoot of Nashville’s industrial past meeting its cocktail-loving present. Once a boiler room for a steam-cleaning facility, this moody, high-ceilinged bar now glows with golden light, exposed brick, and an energy that’s pure Nashville chic.
Old Glory’s mezzanine and back-bar spaces can be reserved for private parties, giving teams a literal underground speakeasy vibe. Signature drinks like the dignified “Slow Roads” or the fragrant “Emily Says” are served alongside local spirits, while DJs and live sets keep things lively without turning corporate.
It’s the kind of spot where you’ll forget you’re at a company event—until Monday morning’s group text with the photos reminds you.
Photo Credit: Liquor Lab
Liquor Lab: Shake, Stir, and Celebrate
Forget passive dining. Liquor Lab lets guests become the mixologists. This interactive cocktail experience in The Gulch transforms the traditional holiday party into a hands-on master class in shaking, stirring, and sipping.
Groups can rent the entire venue or book a private session with one of Liquor Lab’s expert instructors. Learn to craft seasonal cocktails (like Cranberry Spritzes and Maple Old-Fashioneds), then compete for bragging rights in a team challenge.
Add custom branding to glassware or a signature company drink to make the night even more memorable. Equal parts classy and festive, Liquor Lab is ideal for teams who like their parties with a bit of friendly play—and a perfect pour.
Photo Credit: Play Playground
Play Playground: Where Nostalgia Meets Nightlife
If you’ve ever wished your office staff could play tag again, Play Playground is your holiday party dream venue come true. This immersive entertainment space on 2nd Ave is basically an adult playground, fully equipped with giant ball pits, Velcro suits, and larger-than-life games that turn nostalgia into nightlife.
Private event rentals allow teams to take over select zones or the entire 15,000-square-foot space (including the killer rooftop lounge). Between the neon lights, craft cocktails, and competitive energy, it’s impossible not to have fun here.
Expect laughter, team bonding, and a few viral Reels when your CFO races down a slide in a Santa hat. It’s unapologetically over-the-top—in the best possible way, of course!
Photo Credit: cafe babu
cafe babu: Global Flavors, Local Vibes
For teams craving something more cultural than competitive, cafe babu delivers a sensory escape from the regular holiday fare. Located in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood, this vibrant cafe offers Greek- and Indian-inspired small plates, such as Honey-Whipped Feta and the Mumbai Veggie sandwich. And don’t miss out on the babu latte with cardamom or the hand-crafted cocktails like the “Roses are Red.”
Private dining options make it easy to host small to mid-size groups. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between global cool and neighborhood comfort—ideal for teams who appreciate laid-back community over formality.
If your office crowd includes vegetarians, selective foodies, or coffee aficionados, cafe babu is the unexpected hit that gets everyone talking, especially in the evenings when it transforms from a nontraditional coffeehouse to an inviting wine and cocktail bar.
Photo Credit: The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden
The Pharmacy: Burger Bliss and Backyard Cheer
East Nashville’s The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden is practically made for relaxed celebrations. Known for hand-smashed burgers, German-style wurst, and a beyond impressive beer selection, it offers one of the city’s best outdoor spaces—complete with twinkling lights, picnic tables, and firepits and heating units for chilly nights.
Private party reservations allow groups to take over sections of the beer garden or the inside dining area. Between the clinking pint glasses and the cozy holiday energy, The Pharmacy feels like a friend’s backyard party that just happens to serve award-winning burgers.
Perfect for teams who prefer authenticity over flash, it’s welcoming, affordable, and full of Nashville personality.
Photo Credit: Robertson & Co.
ELEVEN11: Luxe Gatherings, Effortless Glamour
Rounding out the list with a touch of elegance, ELEVEN11 offers the kind of space that turns a corporate event into an experience. This new East Nashville bar is inspired by Vietnamese eating and drinking culture and specializes in elevated celebrations and luxe design with modern sophistication. This eleven-seat restaurant opens up into a cocktail bar and discotheque, making it the perfect locale for your next company holiday party.
At ELEVEN11, every night hits a different rhythm—thanks to DJ Contra, whose Miami roots bring a fresh pulse to Nashville’s scene. More than a bar or restaurant, it’s a place to dance, connect, and celebrate. The vibe is summed up perfectly in its tagline, “ăn chưa and party”—Vietnamese for “have you eaten?” and a nod to care before celebration.
Holiday Parties with Style
From bourbon-infused BBQ to immersive playgrounds, Nashville’s company holiday party scene is as eclectic and exciting as the city itself. The best part? You don’t need to settle for cookie-cutter venues when the town is full of character, creativity, and options for every vibe.
So skip the bland buffet and make this season one to remember—because in Nashville, even your office party deserves a little stage time.
