1. Frothy Monkey
What It Is: An all-day café and coffee roaster located at 2509 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM, Frothy Monkey offers breakfast until 5 PM, plus lunch and dinner options. Known for its house-roasted coffee, it’s housed in a cozy bungalow with a beer garden, serving as the original location since 2004.
Popular Dishes:
- Shrimp and Grits: Blackened shrimp and andouille sausage over smoked Gouda grits, loved for its bold Southern taste.
- Basil Pesto Chicken Sandwich: Pulled chicken with cheddar and provolone, a fresh and zesty favorite.
- The Standard: Two eggs with bacon and Gouda grits, a hearty breakfast go-to.
See It Live: Check out their Insta feed below for a peek at the coffee and cozy vibes!
2. Hearts (12 South)
What It Is: A Melbourne-style all-day café located at 2701 12th Ave South Suite B, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open Monday-Thursday 8 AM to 3 PM and Friday-Sunday 8 AM to 5 PM, with happy hour from 2 PM to close. It’s the second Nashville location, offering Australian-inspired fare in a former drum shop.
Popular Dishes:
- Avo Smash: Smashed avocado on sourdough with feta, a fresh breakfast staple.
- Hearts Benny: Poached eggs with hollandaise, often with bacon, praised for its richness.
- Vegemite Toast: A simple Aussie classic with butter and Vegemite, a unique treat.
See It Live: Scroll their Instagram feed below for a taste of their Aussie charm!
3. The Butter Milk Ranch
What It Is: A bakery and brunch spot located at 2407 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 7 AM to 3 PM, it’s known for its scratch-made pastries and hearty brunch dishes in a bright, modern space.
Popular Dishes:
- Chicken Biscuit: Fried chicken on a buttermilk biscuit with hot honey, a sweet-spicy hit.
- French Toast: Thick-cut brioche with seasonal toppings, often raved about.
- Croissant Sandwich: Ham and cheese in a flaky croissant, a bakery standout.
See It Live: Peek at their Insta below for brunch bliss!
4. The Henry
What It Is: A polished American eatery at 2803 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM (11 PM weekends), it offers upscale comfort food with a sleek vibe, perfect for any meal.
Popular Dishes:
- Short Rib Benedict: Braised short rib with poached eggs, a brunch favorite.
- Truffle Fries: Crispy fries with truffle oil, a must-order side.
- Chicken Pot Pie: A creamy, flaky classic loved by regulars.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for elegant eats!
5. White Bison Coffee
What It Is: A specialty coffee shop at 2607 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, it’s a local roaster offering craft coffee and light bites in a rustic-chic setting.
Popular Dishes:
- Honey Cinnamon Latte: A sweet, spiced coffee drink, a crowd-pleaser.
- Avocado Toast: Simple yet fresh, often paired with their coffee.
- Blueberry Muffin: A bakery hit, praised for its moist texture.
See It Live: See their Insta below for coffee vibes!
6. Edley's Bar-B-Que
What It Is: A casual BBQ joint at 2706 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, it serves slow-smoked meats and Southern sides in a laid-back atmosphere.
Popular Dishes:
- Brisket Platter: Smoky, tender brisket, a BBQ staple.
- Pork Nachos: Pulled pork over chips with queso, a fan favorite.
- Hot Chicken Sandwich: Spicy fried chicken with pickles, a Nashville twist.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for BBQ goodness!
7. Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint
What It Is: A Southern BBQ spot at 2400 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, it’s known for whole-hog BBQ and a lively patio vibe.
Popular Dishes:
- Pulled Pork Sandwich: Smoky pork with slaw, a classic.
- Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone pork ribs, a meat lover’s dream.
- Redneck Taco: BBQ over cornbread, a unique hit.
See It Live: See their Insta below for BBQ glory!
8. Urban Grub
What It Is: An upscale Southern eatery at 2506 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 4 PM to 10 PM (11 PM weekends), it offers refined comfort food and a raw bar in a chic setting.
Popular Dishes:
- Shrimp and Grits: Jumbo shrimp over creamy grits, a Southern star.
- Oysters: Freshly shucked from the raw bar, a seafood fave.
- Filet Mignon: Grilled with truffle butter, a luxurious pick.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for upscale eats!
9. Burger Up
What It Is: A gourmet burger spot at 2901 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, it uses local ingredients for creative burgers in a casual space.
Popular Dishes:
- Truffle Burger: Grass-fed beef with truffle aioli, a rich treat.
- Fried Chicken Burger: Crispy chicken with hot sauce, a Southern spin.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and sweet, a top side.
See It Live: See their Insta below for burger bliss!
10. bartaco (12 South)
What It Is: A coastal taco spot at 2526 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, it serves fresh tacos and cocktails in a beachy vibe.
Popular Dishes:
- Baja Fish Taco: Crispy fish with slaw, a fresh standout.
- Spicy Chorizo Taco: Spicy sausage with pickled onions, a bold pick.
- Guacamole: Creamy and zesty, a top starter.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for taco vibes!
11. Fonda (12 South)
What It Is: A modern Mexican eatery at 2510 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, it offers elevated Mexican dishes and cocktails in a sleek space.
Popular Dishes:
- Carne Asada Taco: Grilled steak with salsa, a flavorful hit.
- Chicken Enchiladas: Smothered in mole, a rich favorite.
- Elote: Grilled corn with cotija, a street-food star.
See It Live: See their Insta below for Mexican flair!
12. Mesero
What It Is: A Tex-Mex restaurant at 2823 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, it blends Texas and Mexican flavors in a vibrant setting.
Popular Dishes:
- Brisket Enchiladas: Smoky brisket in red sauce, a hearty pick.
- Shrimp Ceviche: Fresh and zesty, a light favorite.
- Mesero Margarita: A perfectly balanced cocktail, a must-try.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for Tex-Mex vibes!
13. Nashville Street Taco
What It Is: A casual taco spot at 2403 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, it serves authentic street-style tacos in a no-frills setting.
Popular Dishes:
- Al Pastor Taco: Marinated pork with pineapple, a sweet-savory hit.
- Carnitas Taco: Slow-cooked pork with salsa, a tender fave.
- Street Corn: Grilled with crema, a top side.
See It Live: See their Insta below for taco love!
14. Epice
What It Is: A Lebanese bistro at 2902 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open Tuesday-Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM, it offers fresh Mediterranean flavors in a cozy space.
Popular Dishes:
- Lamb Kebab: Grilled lamb with tzatziki, a succulent star.
- Hummus: Creamy with pita, a beloved starter.
- Falafel: Crispy chickpea patties, a veggie fave.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for Mediterranean vibes!
15. Locust
What It Is: A minimalist fine-dining spot at 2305 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open Wednesday-Sunday from 5 PM to 9 PM, it’s a chef-driven spot with a small, curated menu.
Popular Dishes:
- Caviar Dumpling: A delicate, luxurious bite, a signature.
- Beef Tartare: Raw beef with creative garnishes, a bold pick.
- Ice Cream Sandwich: A playful, refined dessert hit.
See It Live: See their Insta below for elegant eats!
16. 12 South Taproom
What It Is: A craft beer pub at 2318 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 11 PM, it pairs local brews with pub grub in a relaxed setting.
Popular Dishes:
- Taproom Burger: Juicy beef with cheddar, a pub classic.
- Buffalo Wings: Spicy and tangy, a beer-friendly fave.
- Beer Cheese Nachos: Loaded with local brew cheese, a hit.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for brew vibes!
17. Bottle Cap
What It Is: A laid-back bar and grill at 2403 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 1 AM, it’s a neighborhood hangout with comfort food and drinks.
Popular Dishes:
- Philly Cheesesteak: Loaded with beef and cheese, a hearty pick.
- Hot Chicken Sliders: Spicy mini sandwiches, a local fave.
- Fried Pickles: Crispy and tangy, a top appetizer.
See It Live: See their Insta below for bar vibes!
18. Embers Ski Lodge
What It Is: A ski-themed bar at 2410 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 1 AM, it offers cocktails and pub fare with a cozy, alpine twist.
Popular Dishes:
- Smash Burger: Double patties with cheese, a juicy hit.
- Poutine: Fries with gravy and cheese curds, a nod to the ski theme.
- Whiskey Mule: A warming cocktail, a bar favorite.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for lodge vibes!
19. Playdate
What It Is: A family-friendly eatery at 2411 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 10 PM, it combines dining with a play area for kids.
Popular Dishes:
- Chicken Tenders: Crispy and kid-approved, a family fave.
- Margherita Pizza: Simple and cheesy, a crowd-pleaser.
- Mac and Cheese: Creamy and comforting, a top pick.
See It Live: See their Insta below for fun vibes!
20. Postino WineCafé
What It Is: A wine bar and café at 2316 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 11 AM to 11 PM, it pairs an extensive wine list with shareable plates.
Popular Dishes:
- Bruschetta Board: Assorted toppings on toast, a signature.
- Panini: Prosciutto and mozzarella, a warm favorite.
- Charcuterie: Meats and cheeses, a wine-perfect pick.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for wine vibes!
21. The Filling Station
What It Is: A craft beer spot at 1118 Halcyon Ave, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 12 PM to 10 PM, it’s a taproom with local brews and a chill patio.
Popular Dishes:
- Pretzel Bites: Soft with beer cheese, a bar snack hit.
- Beer Flight: Sample local brews, a craft lover’s choice.
- Flatbread: Rotating toppings, a light fave.
See It Live: See their Insta below for beer vibes!
22. Christie Cookie Co.
What It Is: A cookie bakery at 2606 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, it’s a local legend for fresh-baked cookies since 1983.
Popular Dishes:
- Chocolate Chip Cookie: The classic, warm and gooey.
- Snickerdoodle: Cinnamon-sugar perfection, a top pick.
- Cookie Sandwich: Two cookies with frosting, a sweet treat.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for cookie love!
23. Five Daughters Bakery
What It Is: A donut shop at 1110 Caruthers Ave, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM, it’s famous for its 100-layer donuts in a quaint space.
Popular Dishes:
- 100-Layer Donut: Maple-glazed, a flaky masterpiece.
- Puritan: Vanilla cream-filled, a rich classic.
- King Kong: Bacon-topped maple, a sweet-salty hit.
See It Live: See their Insta below for donut dreams!
24. Fryce Cream
What It Is: An ice cream shop at 2316 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 12 PM to 9 PM, it offers handcrafted ice cream in a fun setting.
Popular Dishes:
- Vanilla Bean: Creamy and classic, a top scoop.
- Chocolate Fudge Swirl: Rich with fudge, a chocoholic’s pick.
- Waffle Cone: Freshly made, a perfect pairing.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for sweet vibes!
25. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
What It Is: An artisan ice cream shop at 2312 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 12 PM to 10 PM, it’s known for unique, small-batch flavors.
Popular Dishes:
- Brambleberry Crisp: Berry and oat streusel, a fruity fave.
- Salted Peanut Butter: Creamy with a salty kick, a hit.
- Gooey Butter Cake: Rich and indulgent, a local love.
See It Live: See their Insta below for ice cream art!
26. Wanna Spoon Cereal Bar
What It Is: A cereal-themed spot at 1110 Caruthers Ave, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM, it’s a playful spot for cereal, shakes, and coffee.
Popular Dishes:
- Cereal Bowl: Custom mix with milk, a nostalgic hit.
- Cereal Milkshake: Blended cereal and ice cream, a fun treat.
- Breakfast Sandwich: Egg and cheese on a bun, a savory pick.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for cereal fun!
27. Ladybird Taco
What It Is: A breakfast taco spot at 2229 10th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204.
Why You’ll Love It: Open daily from 7 AM to 2 PM, it serves fresh, Texas-style tacos in a bright space.
Popular Dishes:
- Migas Taco: Scrambled eggs with tortilla strips, a breakfast star.
- Chicken Taco: Grilled chicken with salsa, a light fave.
- Biscuit Taco: Sausage and egg in a biscuit, a unique hit.
See It Live: See their Insta below for taco mornings!
28. The 404 Kitchen
What It Is: An upscale American eatery at 507 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203 (just outside 12 South).
Why You’ll Love It: Open Tuesday-Saturday from 5 PM to 10 PM, it offers refined dishes in a shipping container setting.
Popular Dishes:
- Wagyu Steak: Perfectly cooked with sides, a luxe pick.
- Gnocchi: House-made with seasonal sauce, a pasta fave.
- Whiskey Cake: Boozy and sweet, a dessert star.
See It Live: Check their Insta below for fine dining vibes!