The Gulch
Eats & Drinks
The 404 Kitchen
If you’ve perused a copy of Southern Living lately, you may have come across The 404 Kitchen. Listed as one of the best new restaurants in the south, the 404 Kitchen has garnered a lot of attention and they deserve yours too! 404 offers a fresh twist on European cuisine and their menu reads like a fantastic worldly excursion.
Adele’s
With quite the wine selection and seasonal comfort food, Adele’s is a solid choice for dinner. Open for lunch on Friday/Saturday and a brunch buffet on Sunday, you won’t be disappointed going to Adele’s. Named after Chef Waxman’s mother, this restaurant would make any mama proud.
Photos: @adelesnashville
L.A. Jackson
Celebrated for its rooftop view, L.A. Jackson is a rite of passage for Nashvillians. Atop the Thompson Hotel, L.A. Jackson is a destination of its own. Equipped with a killer view of downtown, Frozé, and delicious appetizers, L.A. Jackson will make you feel as if you’ve been catapulted into the Nashville elite (we can pretend, right?).
Biscuit Love
One word: bonuts. No, it’s not a typo. Bonuts are a breakfast dish sent directly from the Music City gods. Made with fried biscuit dough, lemon mascarpone, and blueberry compote, these are worth a visit all on their own. Biscuit Love has evolved from a food truck to one of Nashville’s most adored brunch spots. Head over after you snap a photo with the angel wings.
Sunda New Asian
At Sunda, they pride themselves on taking classic, culturally-important dishes from all over this region and modernizing each one by upgrading ingredients, cooking technique and presentation to create a tasting experience that is completely new while still retaining the deep-rooted spirit of the original.
UP
Another riveting rooftop lounge, UP is the top floor of the Fairfield Inn & Suites. 21+up after 10 pm, you can ditch the kids and enjoy the cocktails they drive you to drink.
UP has a collection of shareable plates, upscale cocktails, and a view you don’t want to miss.
Photos: @uprooftoplounge
Saint Añejo
Why limit yourself to tacos on Tuesday? Enjoy Mexican cuisine and Latin mixology any day of the week at Saint Añejo. Saint Añejo boasts amazing Mexican food, great outdoor seating, a stellar brunch, and even a Tequila Library Lounge. Now that’s a library I’d like to go study in! The Tequila Library Lounge is ideal for tequila tastings and events. Just know that you can’t return it when you’re done (and you won’t want to).
Virago
If you have been looking for a sushi spot, your search is over. Virago offers sushi and other Japanese cuisines, mixing great food with impressive interior design, and a rooftop lounge with a scenic view. Raise your saké to this flavorful restaurant.
Emmy Squared
If you are like me, pizza accounts for 80% of your food intake. Ok, maybe not that much, but that’s to say I really love pizza and Emmy Squared has really really great pies. The owners Matt and Emily Hyland have a love affair with pizza, and after trying their scrumptious recipes, you’ll be seeing hearts as well.
Photos: @emmysquaredpizza
Whiskey Kitchen
The name doesn’t lie; Whiskey Kitchen was named one of America’s best bourbon bars by The Bourbon Review in 2018 and one of America’s top whiskey bars by Fodor’s Travel in 2017. If you’re looking for a restaurant with the “cool” factor, then Whiskey Kitchen is the place for you. You can enjoy some pub fare while you’re sipping on whiskey. This place will make you feel so good, you’ll be singing “Tennessee Whiskey” in no time.
Pour House
Pour House has the three B’s: burgers, bourbon, and brews. For a more laid back night in Nashville, Pour House creates a homey atmosphere with Prohibition-themed décor.
Kayne Prime
Arguably the best steakhouse in Nashville, Kayne Prime is elegant, sophisticated, and damn good at cooking a steak. Kayne Prime also offers appetizers like oysters and lobster to start your night off right. Don’t forget the chocolate s’more for dessert.
Photos: @kayneprime
Stock & Barrel
Feeling fancy, but deep down you really just love a great burger? Stock & Barrel offers gourmet burgers so you can satisfy your burger craving. With burger names like “The Elvis” and “The Ring of Fire,” you know these burgers are sourced from Tennessee.
Sips & Sweets
Barista Parlor Golden Sound
Barista Parlor has three locations. You can visit Barista Parlor Golden Sound in the Gulch, Barista Parlor Germantown, or head to East Nashville for the Barista Parlor on Gallatin. Each features a unique vibe. Golden Sound has many murals nearby that are worth a photo-op. Try the whiskey caramel latte and pair it with their famous flaky biscuits for a savory/sweet combination.
Colts Chocolates Factory
Goo Goo Clusters, move over, there’s more than one incredible chocolate shop in Nashville. The only thing more impressive than Mackenzie Colt’s career is her Colts Bolts: a perfect marriage of chocolate, peanut butter, and whole almonds. A former “Hee Haw” actress, Bolt has taken her star presence from the stage to the kitchen. Need more endorsements? Dolly Parton, Garth Brooks, and Vince Gill have all tried Colts and given it a standing ovation. Don’t just stop at the Colts Bolts, there’s also a whiskey caramel brownie on the menu, need I say more?
Rush Bowls
If you’re like me and ingested so many Colts Bolts that you’re now in risk of diabetic shock, make your next visit to Rush Bowls. A healthy approach to dessert or a refreshing snack, Rush Bowls are empathetic to dietary restrictions and make sure every menu selection is free from artificial sweeteners, artificial additives, artificial preservatives, and MSG. So let’s get real, Rush Bowls are full of real food and amazing ingredients. Try the Power Bowl or the Beach Acai Bowl.
Photos: @rushbowls
Kona Espresso Bar
Drink a cup of Hawaiian coffee at Kona Espresso Bar. Kona gets their products from an exclusive district in Hawaii and they offer not only a great espresso, but healthy breakfast options and snacks to get you through the workday. One sip of Kona coffee and you’ll be daydreaming of beaches and waves.
Photos: @konaespressobar
ZolliKoffee
Another coffee shop located 8th Avenue South, ZolliKoffee has Krispy Treats that will have coffee goers reminiscing about their favorite childhood treats. They're also bike friendly, offering bike racks and fixes for flats.
Shops & Studios
Two Old Hippies
Two Old Hippies embody peace, love, and rock n’ roll. The store carries guitars, clothing, art, gifts, and souvenirs. In Two Old Hippies, you’ll find a 70s flair and a passion for music (which unites us all). If you live in Nashville, something tells me you have an appreciation for music, so be sure to stop by Two Old Hippies.
Uncommon James
From an MTV reality star to jewelry designer, Kristin Cavallari is the brainchild of Uncommon James. Cavallari has created refined jewelry that is easy to layer and integrate into your daily wardrobe. From classic pieces to bold accessories, Uncommon James has a piece that will help you polish any outfit.
Photos: @uncommonjames
Blush Boutique
The Nashville Scene readers deemed Blush Boutique the best local women’s clothing store for years. For you fashionistas that are invested in the latest and greatest trends, go to Blush to update your closet accordingly. Always evolving, Blush keeps their compass facing fashion forward, so you can rest assured you’re always on trend. Twirl girl, twirl!