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Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky-Tonk Steakhouse, alongside 13 other Nashville restaurants, received citations from Metro Public Health Department over the weekend for being out of compliance with coronavirus-related public health orders.
A photo of a packed crowd at the honky-tonk made caused a stir on social media over the weekend. The photo showed hundreds of people packed inside the Lower Broadway bar — with hardly any of them visibly wearing masks.
Dr. Michael Caldwell, director of the Metro Public Health Department, paid a visit to the bar on Saturday night, after receiving a complaint about Friday’s crowds. Kid Rock’s was cited for being out of compliance with Order 6, which requires employees to wear face coverings. Other restaurants cited include 51st Deli, Honky Tonk Central, Jonathan’s Grille (on 3rd Avenue N and on Hwy 70), Nashville Underground, Popeye’s (3550 Murfreesboro Pike), Sam’s Bar and Grill, Scoreboard Bar and Grill, Sonic (7679 Hwy 70 S), Sperry’s Belle Meade, Taco Bell (4000 Nolensville Pike), Thai Phooket, and Wingstop on Gallatin..
In a press conference Monday morning, Metro Public Health Director Hugh Atkins said the department is currently investigating over 500 complaints. Atkins added that they are also available for walk-throughs for any business seeking help to be sure they are operating in compliance with policies.
Each citation results in a court appearance, where a judge will then set a fine amount. If a business continues to operate out of compliance, Atkins said it could result in closure for “some period of time.” He re-emphasized that under Phase Two reopening guidelines, guests should not be eating at bars or on the dance floor at honky-tonks.
