The Bluebird Cafe, a legendary Nashville venue, indeed serves food and drinks. At rental-server.net, we understand the importance of having all the details, whether you’re planning a visit or just curious about this iconic spot. With a simple menu and a listening room atmosphere, knowing what to expect can enhance your experience.
1. What Kind of Food Does the Bluebird Cafe Offer?
Yes, the Bluebird Cafe does serve food. It offers a fairly simple menu to accompany its musical performances.
The Bluebird Cafe isn’t just about the music; it also offers a selection of food and beverages to enhance your experience. The menu is designed to be simple and complementary to the performances, allowing you to enjoy a meal or snack while listening to talented songwriters.
Menu Highlights at the Bluebird Cafe
The Bluebird Cafe’s menu includes appetizers, salads, entrees, and desserts. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:
- Appetizers: Options range from $7 to $12 and include items perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
- Salads: Priced between $9 and $10, offering lighter fare for those looking for a refreshing option.
- Entrees: Ranging from $9 to $14, entrees include popular choices like quesadillas, sandwiches, and pizzas.
- Desserts: All desserts are priced at $8, providing a sweet ending to your meal.
Drinks Available
The Bluebird Cafe offers a variety of drinks, including non-alcoholic options, beers, wine, and spirits:
- Non-alcoholic Drinks: Starting at $3.
- Beers: Ranging from $5 to $8.
- Wine: Priced between $8 and $12.
- Spirits: Starting from $6.
Food and Drink Minimum
There is a $10 food/drink purchase minimum per person for all shows, except for open mic nights. This policy ensures that while you enjoy the music, you also contribute to the venue’s revenue through food and beverage purchases.
Why the Bluebird Cafe Focuses on a Simple Menu
The Bluebird Cafe is primarily a listening room, emphasizing the songwriters and their music. According to Erika Wollam Nichols, the General Manager, the focus is on providing an intimate atmosphere where the music takes center stage. The simple menu supports this by offering convenient options without overshadowing the performances.
How the Bluebird Cafe Benefits from Food and Drink Sales
The revenue from food and drinks, along with merchandise sales, helps sustain the Bluebird Cafe. In fact, one quarter of the annual budget comes from merchandise sales, highlighting the importance of these additional revenue streams.
2. What Is the Atmosphere Like While Dining at the Bluebird Cafe?
The atmosphere is intimate and respectful, emphasizing the music and songwriters. It’s a listening room, not just a restaurant.
Dining at the Bluebird Cafe is a unique experience, primarily because it’s designed to be a “listening room.” This means the focus is on the music and the songwriters, creating an atmosphere of respect and intimacy.
Listening Room Concept
The Bluebird Cafe distinguishes itself from typical music venues by prioritizing the listening experience. General Manager Erika Wollam Nichols emphasizes that the venue is small and intimate, encouraging patrons to listen attentively to the songs. This “Shhh” policy asks audience members to keep their talking to a minimum, allowing songwriters to test their material in a supportive environment.
Intimate Seating Arrangement
With only 90 seats, the Bluebird Cafe offers an up-close and personal experience. The in-the-round setup, where performers are seated in the center of the room, enhances the connection between the artists and the audience. This arrangement fosters a sense of community and shared appreciation for the music.
Respectful Audience
The audience at the Bluebird Cafe is known for being attentive and respectful. They come to listen and appreciate the craft of songwriting. This creates a supportive environment for both the performers and fellow listeners.
How the Atmosphere Enhances the Dining Experience
While the food and drinks are part of the experience, they are secondary to the music. The simple menu is designed not to distract from the performances. The focus remains on the songwriters and their stories, making the Bluebird Cafe a special place for music lovers.
Historical Context
Founded in 1982 by Amy Kurland, the Bluebird Cafe initially started as a gourmet cafe serving lunch and dinner. In 1985, Kurland added a stage, eventually focusing on songwriter performances. This transition highlights the evolution of the Bluebird from a restaurant to a renowned listening room.
3. How Much Does It Cost to Eat and Drink at the Bluebird Cafe?
Expect to spend at least $10 per person due to the food/drink minimum, in addition to the show’s cover charge (if applicable).
The Bluebird Cafe combines a unique musical experience with a simple yet satisfying dining offering. To fully enjoy a night out, it’s important to understand the costs involved.
Understanding the Food and Drink Minimum
The Bluebird Cafe requires a minimum purchase of $10 per person for food and drinks during most shows, excluding open mic nights. This policy ensures that while you enjoy the performances, you also contribute to the venue’s revenue through food and beverage purchases.
Typical Menu Prices
Here’s a breakdown of the typical menu prices to help you estimate your expenses:
- Appetizers: $7 – $12
- Salads: $9 – $10
- Entrees: $9 – $14 (includes quesadillas, sandwiches, pizzas)
- Desserts: $8
- Non-alcoholic Drinks: $3+
- Beers: $5 – $8
- Wine: $8 – $12
- Spirits: $6+
Additional Costs: Cover Charges and Reservation Fees
In addition to the food and drink minimum, be aware of other potential costs:
- Cover Charges: Most shows have a cover charge ranging from $12 to $20, with the revenue going directly to the performers.
- Reservation Fees: If you make reservations online, there is a non-refundable reservation fee of $3.28 per person. This fee is paid in advance and goes to the reservation company.
Estimating the Total Cost
To estimate the total cost for an evening at the Bluebird Cafe, consider the following example:
- Reservation Fee: $3.28
- Cover Charge: $15 (average)
- Food and Drinks Minimum: $10
- Example: An appetizer ($8) and a non-alcoholic drink ($3)
Total Estimated Cost: $3.28 + $15 + $10 = $28.28 per person
Tips for Managing Costs
- Check for Free Shows: Some shows, like the Sunday Spotlight and open mic nights, do not have a cover charge.
- Share Appetizers: Sharing appetizers can help meet the food and drink minimum without overspending.
- Consider Walk-In Options: If you’re willing to take your chances, walk-in customers do not have to pay the reservation fee.
4. Are There Any Free Shows Where I Don’t Have to Buy Food?
Yes, certain shows like Sunday Spotlight and open mic nights (Mondays) often have no cover charge, but the food/drink minimum usually still applies.
Attending a show at the Bluebird Cafe can be an exciting experience, but it’s helpful to know your options for minimizing costs. While the venue is known for supporting songwriters through cover charges and food/drink minimums, there are opportunities to enjoy performances without these fees.
Free Show Opportunities at the Bluebird Cafe
Several types of shows at the Bluebird Cafe do not have a cover charge:
- Sunday Spotlight: This show typically features emerging artists and songwriters and is free to attend.
- Open Mic Nights (Mondays): Open mic nights offer a platform for aspiring musicians and are free of cover charges.
- Sunday Writers Nights: Similar to open mic nights, these events showcase songwriters in a casual setting without an admission fee.
- Early Shows (Tuesday-Saturday): Many early shows on these days do not have a cover charge.
Food and Drink Minimums During Free Shows
Even though these shows don’t have a cover charge, it’s important to note that the food and drink minimum of $10 per person typically still applies. This minimum helps support the venue and its operations.
Exceptions to the Food and Drink Minimum
The primary exception to the food and drink minimum is during open mic nights. On these nights, you are not required to spend a minimum of $10 on food and drinks.
Reservation Fees for Free Shows
If you choose to make reservations online for free shows, you will still have to pay the non-refundable reservation fee of $3.28 per person. However, if you opt to be a walk-in customer and stand in line, you can avoid this fee.
Tips for Attending Free Shows
- Arrive Early: Since free shows are popular, arriving early increases your chances of getting a seat.
- Check the Schedule: Confirm the show schedule on the Bluebird Cafe’s website to ensure the show is indeed free.
- Consider Walk-In Options: If you don’t mind waiting in line, you can avoid the reservation fee by being a walk-in customer.
5. How Do I Get Tickets to the Bluebird Cafe?
Tickets are primarily available online. Reservations open the Monday before the show, and they go fast. Walk-in options are also available.
Securing tickets to the Bluebird Cafe requires strategic planning and quick action. Given its intimate setting and legendary status, tickets are highly sought after.
Online Reservations
The primary method for getting tickets is through online reservations. Here’s how the process works:
- Reservation Schedule:
- Reservations for weekend shows are available online starting at 8 a.m. Central Time the Monday before the show.
- Most other shows start reservations a week in advance.
- Website Access:
- Visit the official Bluebird Cafe website (bluebirdcafe.com) to access the reservation system.
- Familiarize Yourself:
- Before the reservation time, familiarize yourself with the website layout and the reservation process to save time.
- Purchase Tickets:
- Click on “shows,” find the show you want to attend, and click “purchase tickets” to check the reservation status.
- Timing:
- Log on a few minutes before 8 a.m. Central Time on the designated Monday.
- The system places people randomly into the reservation site.
- Reservation Process:
- Ten customers “enter the room” initially and can reserve up to six seats each.
- After the initial entry, it operates on a one-in, one-out basis.
- Seat Selection:
- If you get a turn, you will see a layout of the venue and can select your table and the number of seats.
- Smaller parties may be seated with other guests at larger tables.
- Payment:
- Provide your credit card and billing information to pay the non-refundable reservation fee of $3.28 per person.
- Proceed to checkout to complete your reservation.
Walk-In Option
If you are unable to secure online reservations, you can try the walk-in option:
- Standing in Line:
- Arrive early and stand in line before the show.
- There are usually a limited number of seats (12-15) available for walk-in patrons.
- Timing:
- It is generally easier to get walk-in seats for early shows than for late shows.
- Information from Staff:
- The staff tries to keep people in line informed about their chances of getting in.
Tips for Securing Tickets
- Be Prompt:
- Start trying to make reservations right at 8 a.m. Central Time.
- Check Back:
- If you miss out initially, check back later in the week for cancellations.
- Consider Table Size:
- You might have a better chance at getting spots at tables other than the four-tops, which are often reserved for performers’ guests.
- Don’t Be Discouraged:
- Persistence is key. Keep trying, and you might get lucky.
Additional Information
- The admission price is paid at the door, while the reservation fee is paid online in advance.
- The Bluebird Cafe makes its money from merchandise, food, and drinks.
6. Is There Parking Available at the Bluebird Cafe?
Parking is limited, so consider using ride-sharing services like Lyft or Uber.
Navigating parking around the Bluebird Cafe can be challenging due to its location in a busy area.
Parking Situation
- Limited Parking:
- The Bluebird Cafe is located in an unassuming strip center at 4104 Hillsboro Pike in Green Hills, where parking is limited.
- No Dedicated Parking:
- There is no dedicated parking lot specifically for the Bluebird Cafe.
- Parking is generally on your own.
Alternative Transportation Options
Given the parking constraints, alternative transportation options are highly recommended:
- Ride-Sharing Services:
- Lyft and Uber are popular choices for getting to the Bluebird Cafe.
- These services eliminate the stress of finding parking and allow you to enjoy your evening without worrying about driving.
- Taxi Services:
- Traditional taxi services are also available in Nashville.
- Public Transportation:
- Check local public transportation options, although they may not be as convenient as ride-sharing or taxis.
Tips for Parking If You Choose to Drive
If you decide to drive, consider these tips to make your parking experience smoother:
- Arrive Early:
- Arriving early increases your chances of finding a parking spot in the strip center.
- Be Prepared to Walk:
- You may need to park further away and walk to the venue.
- Observe Parking Regulations:
- Pay attention to parking signs and regulations to avoid tickets or towing.
- Consider Nearby Parking:
- Look for parking options in nearby streets or commercial areas, but be mindful of any restrictions.
Why Alternative Transportation Is a Good Idea
- Convenience:
- Ride-sharing services offer door-to-door service, eliminating the need to search for parking.
- Stress-Free:
- You can relax and enjoy your evening without worrying about parking availability or driving.
- Safety:
- If you plan to consume alcohol, using a ride-sharing service ensures you have a safe ride home.
7. Can I Buy Bluebird Cafe Merchandise?
Yes, merchandise is available and contributes significantly to the venue’s budget.
Purchasing merchandise from the Bluebird Cafe is a great way to support the venue and commemorate your visit.
Availability of Merchandise
- On-Site Purchases:
- Merchandise is available for purchase at the Bluebird Cafe.
- Variety of Items:
- The selection includes items such as t-shirts, hats, posters, and other memorabilia.
Contribution to the Bluebird Cafe’s Budget
- Significant Revenue Source:
- Merchandise sales contribute significantly to the Bluebird Cafe’s annual budget.
- Percentage of Budget:
- One quarter (25%) of the Bluebird’s annual budget comes from merchandise sales.
- This revenue helps support the venue, its operations, and its mission to promote songwriters.
Why Buy Merchandise?
- Support the Venue:
- Purchasing merchandise directly supports the Bluebird Cafe and its efforts to showcase emerging and established songwriters.
- Commemorate Your Visit:
- Merchandise serves as a lasting reminder of your experience at the iconic venue.
- Unique Souvenirs:
- Bluebird Cafe merchandise makes for unique souvenirs and gifts for music lovers.
Types of Merchandise Available
- Apparel:
- T-shirts, hoodies, and hats featuring the Bluebird Cafe logo and designs.
- Posters and Prints:
- Commemorative posters and prints of past performances and events.
- Accessories:
- Keychains, mugs, and other small items.
- Music:
- CDs and vinyl records from artists who have performed at the Bluebird Cafe.
How to Purchase Merchandise
- Visit the Venue:
- The best way to purchase merchandise is to visit the Bluebird Cafe during operating hours.
- Check for Online Options:
- Inquire whether the Bluebird Cafe offers online merchandise sales through their website.
8. What Makes the Bluebird Cafe So Special?
Its intimate setting, focus on songwriters, and history of showcasing legendary artists make it a unique and revered venue.
The Bluebird Cafe’s unique charm stems from its intimate atmosphere and unwavering dedication to showcasing songwriters.
Intimate Setting
- Small Capacity:
- With only 90 seats, the Bluebird Cafe offers an intimate and personal experience.
- Listening Room:
- The venue is designed as a “listening room,” encouraging audience members to focus on the music and the stories behind the songs.
Focus on Songwriters
- Songwriter-Centric:
- The Bluebird Cafe prioritizes songwriters, providing a platform for them to share their work in a supportive environment.
- In-the-Round Setup:
- The in-the-round setup, where performers are seated in the center of the room, enhances the connection between the artists and the audience.
Historical Significance
- Founded in 1982:
- The Bluebird Cafe was founded in 1982 by Amy Kurland and has since become a mecca for songwriters.
- Evolution:
- Initially a gourmet cafe, it evolved into a renowned listening room with a focus on songwriter performances.
Showcasing Legendary Artists
- Career Moments:
- Numerous artists, including Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, and Vince Gill, have had significant “career moments” at the Bluebird Cafe.
- Up-and-Coming Talent:
- The venue continues to showcase up-and-coming songwriters, offering them a platform to gain exposure.
Community and Support
- NSAI Ownership:
- In 2008, Amy Kurland sold the Bluebird to the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), ensuring its continued support of songwriters.
- Mission Alignment:
- NSAI’s mission to “educate, elevate, and celebrate songwriters” aligns perfectly with the Bluebird’s goals.
Performances and Events
- Diverse Performances:
- Performers include up-and-coming songwriters and those whose music is regularly on the charts, spanning country, pop, rock, and contemporary Christian genres.
- Benefits:
- The Bluebird hosts about 100 benefit events each year, supporting various organizations.
Insider Tips for Visiting
- Familiarize Yourself:
- Get to know the Bluebird website and reservation process in advance.
- Be Prompt:
- Start making reservations right at 8 a.m. Central Time for upcoming shows.
- Check Back:
- If you miss out initially, check back later for cancellations.
- Consider Walk-In Options:
- Don’t rule out standing in line for walk-in seats, especially for early shows.
Conclusion: Experiencing the Bluebird Cafe
The Bluebird Cafe offers a unique blend of intimate dining and exceptional musical performances. Knowing what to expect—from the food and drink options to the reservation process—can help you make the most of your visit. For more information on Nashville venues and planning your trip, visit rental-server.net.
FAQ About the Bluebird Cafe
1. Does the Bluebird Cafe require reservations?
Reservations are highly recommended due to the venue’s small size and popularity. Online reservations open the Monday before weekend shows and are usually filled quickly.
2. What is the food and drink minimum at the Bluebird Cafe?
There is a $10 food/drink purchase minimum per person for all shows, except open mic nights.
3. Are there any free shows at the Bluebird Cafe?
Yes, Sunday Spotlight, open mic nights (Mondays), Sunday Writers Nights, and many early shows Tuesday-Saturday do not have a cover charge.
4. How much does it cost to attend a show at the Bluebird Cafe?
Most cover charges are $12-$20. Additionally, there is a $3.28 per person non-refundable reservation fee if you book online.
5. What type of music is played at the Bluebird Cafe?
The Bluebird Cafe features a variety of genres, including country, pop, rock, and contemporary Christian music.
6. Is there parking available at the Bluebird Cafe?
Parking is limited, so ride-sharing services like Lyft or Uber are recommended.
7. Can I purchase merchandise at the Bluebird Cafe?
Yes, merchandise is available for purchase and contributes significantly to the venue’s budget.
8. What is the “Shhh” policy at the Bluebird Cafe?
The “Shhh” policy asks audience members to keep their talking low and to a minimum to respect the songwriters and the listening environment.
9. How early should I arrive for a show at the Bluebird Cafe?
If you have reservations, arrive in time to check in and be seated. If you are a walk-in, arrive early to increase your chances of getting a seat.
10. How can I find out who is performing at the Bluebird Cafe?
Check the Bluebird Cafe’s official website (bluebirdcafe.com) for the show schedule and performer information.
By understanding these key aspects of the Bluebird Cafe, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience at one of Nashville’s most iconic music venues. For more insights and planning tips, visit rental-server.net, where we provide comprehensive information to enhance your experiences.
