Citizen: a place for the discreet and elite to meet

Kings of Leon’s Caleb Followill celebrated his birthday in style at Citizen, one of Nashville’s most elite and private venues, and he didn’t have to be hounded by fans and autograph seekers. Accompanied by his brothers Nathan and Jared, the musicians were surrounded by industry leaders and fellow performers like Taylor Swift and The Black Keys. Citizen is a discreet, members-only club for 350 Nashville high-society folk and other members of the upper crust elite. With a thumb-print entry and strict dress code, good luck getting in without an invitation. In addition to the prohibition of cameras and secure entry, a special touch includes the ability to order off menus from Whiskey Kitchen and Virago without the wait. “It’s nice to be able to eat the food you love without the long waits and crowded atmosphere,” said member Sara Morris. You won’t find anyone wearing Ed Hardy here.  Each new member of this elite clan is presented with a small rulebook that includes a dress code, rules on name-dropping, capturing images inside the venue, and discretion of fellow members. Matt Mogan, a once-guest of the club says this place is like nothing else in Nashville. “Sure there are other member-only clubs here, but Citizen is the ultimate,” Mogan said. Citizen is a place for members to celebrate exactly what they enjoy–celebrating.  Some of the high-society elite who come here spend their free time organizing other Belle Meade-centric events, such as the Marchesa Fashion Show this coming April, The Swan Ball and Steeplechase. My advice: Find a friend (who is a member), get dressed up, and enjoy the lights and food. You’ll...