Boyd’s Jig and Reel is a bar in Knoxville, Tennessee, located in the Old City neighborhood. It serves as a Scottish-inspired music and whisky pub, offering authentic hand-made Scottish fare for lunch, dinner, and late-night dining. The bar features a curated selection of over 1,000 whiskies, including Scotch, Bourbon, Irish, and international varieties, alongside a range of beers, wines, and seasonal cocktails. Live music is a central part of the experience, with nightly performances spanning traditional Celtic, Irish, and Scottish tunes, as well as country, bluegrass, and Americana. The venue hosts ticketed events and weekly music sessions, welcoming both local and touring musicians. With a 4.70 rating from 433 reviews, it is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, extensive whisky collection, and dedication to preserving Scottish heritage in East Tennessee.
The bar was founded by Jenny Boyd, who draws on the region’s Scottish-Irish roots to create a space where music, whisky, and community converge. The concept honors the legacy of Scottish immigrants who settled in East Tennessee during the 1600s, blending Appalachian culture with Scottish traditions. The venue emphasizes authenticity in both its food and drink, with a full bar menu featuring craft cocktails, rotating draft selections, and a range of imported and domestic beverages. Whisky flights are organized by region and profile, offering guests curated experiences from Speyside to Islay, with special editions and limited releases available. Music events are scheduled six nights a week, with a focus on live performances by both emerging and established artists.
Boyd’s Jig and Reel is located on S Central Street in Knoxville, just a short walk from the Old City neighborhood and the Old City Performing Arts Center. It sits about 0.1 miles from East Summit Hill Drive and West Summit Hill Drive, near First Creek and the Southern Rail Station, placing it at the heart of downtown’s cultural and historic district. The venue is easily accessible from surrounding roads and is surrounded by a mix of historic architecture and public spaces.
The bar has built a strong reputation for its authentic Scottish ambiance, extensive whisky selection, and consistent live music programming. It stands out as a premier destination for whisky enthusiasts and music lovers in Knoxville, consistently praised for its welcoming atmosphere and cultural authenticity. Its dedication to heritage, quality, and community engagement has solidified its status as a local favorite.
Boyd’s Jig and Reel brings the spirit of Scotland to the heart of Knoxville, where heritage, music, and craft spirits come together in a vibrant, welcoming space.