fixin' for a good time

about us

The Back 40 is a Modern American restaurant located at Union Street and 3rd Ave in the heart of Nashville across from Printer’s Alley and Nashville Public Square. Located near several hotels, we are the perfect hearty dinner spot before a night out on Broadway.  During football season, have some pre-game drinks before hopping on the nearby Tennessee Titans shuttle pick-up. 

THE STORY of

Back 40 Nashville

all in The name

The name Back 40 was born as a nod to the pioneering family heritage of owner, Wayne Dice.  Wayne’s ancestors helped develop the farming and ranching communities around Grand Coulee and Wilbur, Washington in the Northwest.

The back 40 was a place to escape the days work and cut loose away from the main house. It was a place to drink, tell stories, solve the days problems and listen to music.  That’s exactly the essence we want you to feel when stepping into our establishment here in Nashville.

Meet Owner

Wayne
Dice

Owner, Wayne Dice, dedicated 29 years to law enforcement.  In 2017, he found himself navigating a surprising dual journey. While he still upheld the badge and patrolled the highways, he also ventured into the bustling world of hospitality.

Through a web of connections, he became a partner in an award-winning party brunch restaurant just outside of Las Vegas where revelers could indulge in decadent dishes and bottomless mimosas. Upon retiring in 2023, Wayne decided to migrate here to fulfill his long-time love affair with Nashville that began when he traveled here in 1988 after his parents picked him up from Army Boot Camp and took him to dine at The Stock-Yards.

modern american / southern soul

The Concept

We conceived a culinary haven that fuses the soul-soothing comfort of Southern soul food with the cutting-edge creativity of modern American cuisine. Our vision was born from a desire to pay homage to the rich culinary traditions that have fed generations while embracing the evolving tastes of a diverse community like Nashville.

The result? An enchanting marriage of flavors and techniques, where cornbread and caviar dance harmoniously, and mac ‘n’ cheese takes on a gourmet twist. Our restaurant is a tribute to the past and a celebration of the future, where the warmth of a Southern smile and the boldness of American ingenuity converge to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.