The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden

Located at the corner of McFerrin and Eastland Avenue in East Nashville, The Pharmacy is a unique establishment that blends old-world beer garden charm with American diner nostalgia, offering something more than just a good burger. At The Pharmacy, the scent of well seasoned beef sizzling on a grill mingles with the savory richness of smoked sausages and the crisp notes of rare, imported pilsners and ales. Families gather here on weekends and neighborhood regulars stop by for a cold pour and a chat in the beer garden.

The Man Behind the Burger: Cees Brinkman

The Pharmacy was the brainchild of Cees Brinkman, a Dutch transplant to Nashville who had a vision: combine the communal culture of European beer gardens with the nostalgia of American soda fountains and burgers. In 2011, that vision became a reality when The Pharmacy opened its doors on McFerrin Avenue in East Nashville, a neighborhood that was just beginning its transformation into one of the city’s most dynamic enclaves.

From the start, The Pharmacy felt like a place out of time. The interior was designed to echo the look of an old-school apothecary, complete with retro bar stools, wood-paneled booths, and vintage fixtures. Outside, the beer garden brought a different flavor altogether: long communal tables, strung lights, and a leafy canopy made it a place to linger and connect. It was a restaurant designed not just for eating, but for gathering.

History of The Pharmacy: Growing with East Nashville

Since opening in 2011, The Pharmacy has grown from a quirky newcomer to a beloved East Nashville staple. Its roots may be in burgers and beer, but its branches reach into community, culture, and culinary craftsmanship. This article dives deep into what makes The Pharmacy such a standout—from its humble beginnings and signature menu items to its ever-evolving beer selection and place in Nashville’s heart.

As the restaurant’s popularity grew, so did its footprint. Over the years, The Pharmacy expanded to include a location inside Nashville International Airport (BNA), allowing travelers a last taste of East Nashville before taking off. Despite the growth, it has never lost its local flavor. The original location remains the beating heart of the operation, a go-to for casual weeknight dinners, sunny weekend lunches, and late-night hangouts.

More than a business, The Pharmacy has become a part of the community fabric. Brinkman and his team have embraced collaborations with local institutions, including Historic Nashville Inc., to support neighborhood heritage. The result is a restaurant that feels deeply connected to the past, present, and future of East Nashville.

A Beer Garden Oasis in East Nashville

Walk through the front doors of The Pharmacy, and you’re immediately transported. The interior wood décor pays tribute to classic Americana and turn-of-the-century local hubs—places where neighbors once came not just to dine but to commune. The soft lighting, dark wood, and mid-century accents give the space a timeless, comfortable feel. Behind the bar, vintage soda taps gleam next to an impressive lineup of glassware waiting for their next craft pour.

Yet, it’s the beer garden that steals the show. Tucked away, right behind the restaurant, this outdoor space is nothing short of a Nashville treasure. Lush and shaded, with communal picnic tables and glowing lights overhead, it’s a space that invites conversation, laughter, and leisurely meals. It’s not unusual to see families with children seated next to groups of friends sipping beer flights or couples splitting a basket of fries on a casual date night.

What sets The Pharmacy apart from trendier spots is its time-tested authenticity. It doesn’t rely on gimmicks to attract a crowd—just great food, good vibes, and a commitment to quality. The atmosphere is relaxed but never lazy, with an energy that’s both neighborly and vibrant. Whether you’re dressed in your Sunday best or just rolled in from a bike ride down Shelby Bottoms Greenway, you’re welcome here.

Signature Flavors of The Pharmacy

At its core, The Pharmacy is a burger joint—and not just any burger joint, but one that has mastered the art of the American classic while experimenting just enough to continue making new consistently delicious breakthroughs in flavor. All of the burgers, topping, and fries are made entirely in-house daily. The buns, baked locally by Frothy Monkey Bakery, are soft, buttery, and just sturdy enough to hold up under layers of toppings.

Burgers

The Pharmacy Burger is the gold standard: cheddar cheese, iceberg lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and yellow mustard. It’s the kind of burger that reminds you why you fell in love with burgers in the first place. Simple, balanced, and perfectly executed. For many, it’s the gateway burger—the one that hooks you.

For those craving something heartier, the Farm Burger is a marvel. Layered with smoked country ham, crispy bacon, an over-easy egg, and house-made maple mustard, it’s a decadent and deeply satisfying option that still manages to taste fresh and vibrant. Then there’s the Chipotle Burger, a spicy powerhouse stacked with grilled jalapeños and chipotle avocado aioli—bold, creamy, and unapologetically fiery.

Another favorite is the White Oak BBQ Burger, featuring a made-in-house Coca-Cola barbecue sauce, provolone cheese, and crispy onion straws. The sweetness of the sauce and the crunch of the onions provide a unique contrast to the savory beef patty. Vegetarians aren’t left out either, with standout options like the Black Bean Burger and the Impossible Pharmacy Burger, both crafted with just as much care as their beef counterparts.

Bratwursts

While the burgers steal the headlines, the bratwursts at The Pharmacy are equally deserving of the spotlight. All of the wursts are made in-house, using traditional recipes and smoked over Tennessee white oak for an unmistakable flavor. You’ll find classic bratwurst, jagerwurst (a beef-and-pork blend seasoned with garlic and spices), and currywurst, a nod to German street food.

These bratwursts can be ordered solo, as part of a platter, or with sides like sauerkraut and house-made mustard. They’re flavorful, hearty, and ideal for beer pairing. If you’re in the mood to share, the Biergarten Platter is a great choice—offering a little bit of everything and encouraging that communal, pass-the-plate kind of dining experience that defines The Pharmacy.

Phosphate Sodas

Then there’s the soda fountain—an ode to the days when pharmacies doubled as social hubs for townsfolk. The Pharmacy uses real phosphates and crafts its own syrups using pure cane sugar and real ingredients. Favorites like Creamsicle, Strawberry Ginger, and Mint Phosphate offer a sweet, nostalgic treat that’s miles away from mass-produced sodas.

Local and International Beers

Beer is where The Pharmacy’s German soul truly shines. The beer list reads like a passport, featuring brews from Belgium, Germany, the Czech Republic, and even some local Nashville favorites. Each beer is chosen not only for its flavor profile but also for how it complements the food on the menu.

One of the most talked-about offerings is Duvel Golden Ale, a crisp and effervescent Belgian brew known for its delicate citrus notes and high carbonation. It’s a rare find on draft in the U.S., and The Pharmacy is the only place in Tennessee where you can get it on tap. The Val-Dieu Rose Blanche de Liege is another standout—a raspberry-infused witbier that’s both fruity and refreshing.

For those who prefer to keep it local, the Pharmacy Pils, brewed in collaboration with Bearded Iris, is a fan favorite. Light, clean, and endlessly drinkable, it’s the ideal pairing for a burger or bratwurst on a hot Nashville afternoon. The seasonal beer list is always evolving, ensuring there’s something new to try on every visit. Not sure what to order? The staff is more than happy to help you choose based on your preferences or your meal. It’s part of what makes dining at The Pharmacy feel like an experience rather than just a meal.

The Pharmacy’s Place in Nashville’s Burger Scene

Within the broader gourmet burger landscape of Nashville—which includes innovators like Burger Up in 12 South, Gabby’s Burgers near Wedgewood-Houston, and the ever-praised Jack Brown’s—The Pharmacy stands as a bridge between artisanal aspirations and down-to-earth accessibility. It’s not just a burger joint; it’s a reflection of Nashville’s evolving palate—rooted in tradition but unafraid to experiment.

As the city grows and diversifies, The Pharmacy remains a steadfast reminder of how simplicity, done right, can become iconic. Biting into one of their burgers still feels like a rite of passage in Nashville’s culinary story.

The Legacy: More Than Just Great Burgers

The Pharmacy is a cornerstone of the East Nashville community. From day one, it’s been about more than just burgers and beer. It’s been about building a space that brings people together, supports local causes, and reflects the culture of its neighborhood. One of the most visible signs of this commitment is through hosting events and campaigns that promote the preservation of Nashville’s architectural and cultural heritage. It’s a fitting collaboration for a business that celebrates nostalgia while helping shape the future of its neighborhood.

Why The Pharmacy is a Must-Try Restaurant

The Pharmacy is a “must-try” stop on any Nashville food tour because it captures the soul of the city’s evolving culinary identity. While many associate Nashville cuisine with hot chicken or barbecue, The Pharmacy offers a different kind of local flavor. It’s not just about eating a burger—it’s about experiencing the laid-back, porch-sitting spirit of East Nashville with a burger in one hand and an exotic beer in the other. The old-school soda fountain adds another layer of nostalgia, offering hand-crafted sodas and milkshakes that harken back to a simpler time, yet feel perfectly at home in Nashville’s hip present.

On a citywide food tour, The Pharmacy represents more than a great meal—it’s a narrative moment. It speaks to how Nashville embraces the past while innovating the future, how it values local sourcing, and how it cultivates spaces that are both inclusive and character-rich. Skipping The Pharmacy would be like missing the harmony in a song—it might still sound good, but the experience wouldn’t be complete.

Tips and Recommendations

If you’re heading to The Pharmacy, a little planning goes a long way. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so timing can make a big difference. Weekday lunches and early dinners tend to be less crowded, while weekend evenings can draw quite the line—especially when the weather is nice and the beer garden is open.

Once you’re in, you’ll have several seating options. Inside, you’ll find classic diner-style booths and bar seating. On the side porch, you get a quieter, shaded area that’s ideal for a more relaxed meal. And of course, out back is the beer garden, where the magic really happens. Bring your dog, your friends, or your out-of-town guests and settle in.

Make a point to try a burger and a bratwurst on your first visit—it’s the best way to sample the full range of what The Pharmacy offers. Don’t skip the fries, and if you’re skipping the beer, grab a phosphate soda to keep the vintage vibes going. For dessert, consider a house-made root beer float or one of the rotating sweet specials.

After your meal, take a walk around East Nashville. Explore local record shops, browse bookstores, or catch a live show at one of the neighborhood’s many venues. The Pharmacy is just one stop on a map of East Nashville’s creative pulse.

Frequently Asked Questions