Dino's

Dino’s has long been the kind of neighbourhood bar where you arrive late, order a no-fuss burger and talk across closely spaced tables. In East Nashville, its kitchen serves burgers, fries, fried pickles and sandwiches until 3 a.m. The official ordering menu checked listed a hamburger at US$8 and fries at US$5, an uncommon combination in a city where a late-night bill can climb quickly. The room is small and service is first come, first served, with no reservations.

Customers’ accounts often praise the straightforward atmosphere, burgers and relief of finding a kitchen open in the small hours. Other comments remind visitors that the space fills up and service can slow during the busiest periods. Dino’s does not take phone orders for takeaway and stops boxing new takeaway orders after 10 p.m.; that matters to anyone coming from another neighbourhood expecting dinner in their room. The place works best when you want to eat there and experience the bar, not when you need a quick delivery.

The venue is at 411 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206; the phone number is (615) 226-3566. It opens Monday to Friday from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. and at noon on weekends, also closing at 3 a.m. It takes no reservations, so busy nights can bring a queue. East Nashville is across the river from Downtown; arrange your return trip before ordering another round and check the menu, as dishes and prices can change. For a simple meal after live music, the extended kitchen hours are its main advantage.