Robert’s Western World Purchases Jack’s Bar-B-Que Building On Broadway

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Pictured (L-R): Emily Ann Jones, JesseLee Jones, Jack Cawthon, Jay Cawthon. Photo: Courtesy of Robert’s Western World

Jack’s Bar-B-Que has sold its landmark Lower Broadway building in Nashville to the owners of Robert’s Western World, JesseLee Jones and his wife, Emily Ann.

Jack’s Founder Jack Cawthon is credited with igniting the first wave of revitalization on Lower Broadway. Cawthon first opened a Broadway location in 1991 near Riverfront Park. In 1994, after being displaced by the construction of the Hard Rock Cafe, he relocated to 416A Broadway, where he helped shape the neon-lit character of Lower Broadway.

The buildings at 416A and 416B were once connected by large archways, and the sale reunites the properties into one historic Broadway address. Jack’s smokers and the iconic flying pig sign will be relocated. The decision to sell followed conversations with the Jones family regarding Robert’s planned revitalization and third-floor expansion.

“Emily and I are incredibly grateful to Jack for his vision and tenacity,” says JesseLee Jones. “He paved the way for so many of us on Lower Broadway. We’re honored he entrusted us with this legacy, and we’re excited to reunite 416A and 416B into something truly historic for Nashville and for Robert’s. There’s work ahead, but we’re committed to preserving the music and traditions that made this city Music City.”

“I couldn’t think of a better historic Broadway institution to entrust with the building,” Cawthon adds. “I’m excited to see what Robert’s will do with an expansion. The building will remain in good hands.”

Robert’s Western World is committed to preserving the beloved honky tonk’s history, character, and legacy, and will share renderings of the updated space in the coming months. Robert’s will also continue its relationship with Jack’s as the preferred caterer for private events.

With the sale, Jack’s Bar-B-Que will focus on expanding its other two locations, Charlotte Avenue in Midtown and West Trinity Lane as well as a refocus on catering.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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