I’ve already included some of the most popular areas of town (12th South, the Gulch, Downtown, Germantown), but now i’m talking about my neighborhood – 8th Ave or the Melrose area, and we’ll throw in Berry Hill for fun.
10 years ago, I don’t even think I would drive down this road, other than to go to the 24 hour Kroger (and that was really only if I was desperate). Now, 8th is not only where I live, but I love spending time on this road! There’s so much great stuff here.
COFFEE
8th & Roast
Hands down, my favorite cup of coffee in town. They have iced coffee on tap and they roast their beans in house. The fact that this is walkable from my house is the icing on the cake – but I’d gladly drive here. Seriously, MY FAVORITE!
Frothy on 8th
A smaller version of the classic. They do no cook foods like sandwiches, and make all of the same great drinks and baked goods as the 12th South original. It’s also attached to Grimey’s record store, which is fun!
RESTAURANTS
Fenwick’s 300
An upscale diner concept, created by the people who brought us FIDO and Bongo Java. It’s one of my favorite casual breakfast or lunch in town.
Baja Burrito
Nashville’s most loved burrito. This local spot is always busy, but always tasty! I personally love the peasant plate and eating on their patio.
Vui’s Kitchen
This new Vietnamese restaurant is to die for! I tried the spring rolls and noodle bowl and enjoyed every bite. Extremely fresh and made to order.
Sinema
Sinema is like being in a glamorous 1920’s movie – in an old theater and all! They serve gorgeous food and delicious cocktails. This is on the swankier side, so save it for a special occasion.
Peace, Love, and Pho
A great little pho restaurant around the corner from our house. The owners are sweet and the food is delicious.
Smiling Elephant
The best thai in Nashville, without question. The space is small, the hours are slim, but the food is delicious. Don’t bring a large group here, you’ll never get in. Order the curry, you won’t regret it!
The Sutler
The Sutler is so fun. It’s got that “country” twist that makes you remember you’re in Nashville, but in an upscale way. Their basement bar is my favorite. It’s a cool place to grab a drink with a group. They also have live music most nights!
Dozen Bakery
Dozen is my new favorite place! Their menu is simple and changes seasonally, but they make some of the best, fresh meals in town. Great for breakfast or lunch.
The Hook
The Hook is my new favorite place to walk to from our house. They have really fun drinks and an awesome patio! The food is casual but tasty. Think of it as Chipolte quick, but for fish & chips (and other seafood). They also have happy hour every day, with rotating deals!
DRINKS
Urban Juicer
My local juice bar. They’ve got a great selection and you can even order online to pick up!
Craft Brewed
A great place to try flights of beers and fill up a growler. They have a large selection and a nice patio for a drink!
TO DO
Zanie’s
Want to see your favorite comedian? This is the place to do it! A lot of famous acts frequent Zanie’s, so check their calendar before you visit.
Grimey’s & the Basement
Grimey’s, which is attached to Frothy Monkey & the Basement, is a great record shop. One of Nashville’s best, in my opinion. The Basement is a great venue for local and national bands, check their calendar for upcoming shows.
Monthly Flea Market
The last weekend of each month, Nashville Fair Grounds hosts a flea market. There’s a lot of great vintage finds and furniture to browse.
Antique Row
There are at least a half dozen antique shops on 8th Ave. All styles and eras. If you like antique shopping, check them out!
Santa’s Pub
It seems I’ve saved the best for last. If you love karaoke, this is your place; it’s quite literally a double wide trailer that has Santa’s face spray painted on the outside. The man who owns it actually looks like Santa. It’s very low key, you can only buy a few beers in the bottle (Yuengling is the fancy beer), and it’s cash only. The one rule: no bad language! Santa is very strict and will kick you off stage, so keep it clean 🙂
Guys, my neighborhood is the best! Come visit whenever you want 😉
xo
