Nashville
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WELCOME TO NASHVILLE
A rare experience, well done.
RANKED #3 BEST FINE DINING RESTAURANT IN THE COUNTRY.
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NAMED BEST RESTAURANT, BEST STEAKHOUSE, AND BEST RESTAURANT WITH A VIEW.
NAMED ONE OF AMERICA’S BEST BOURBON BARS. - NASHVILLE SCENE - THE BOURBON REVIEW
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Fascinating origin stories behind iconic Nashville foods.
Need some cuddle time with a furry friend?
Visit The Catio, Nashville’s cat cafe.
Unique pieces to take home from Music City.
Explore
Delight
The
The only full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon in the world, Nashville’s version is a portal to history.
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888 Nashville
This new fusion concept not only offers foodies an elevated take on Japanese cuisine, but also fuses music and design into the experience in a unique way, offering delights for all five senses. “888 is a haven where culinary mastery converges with musical artistry,” says Philip Stewart, 888’s general manager. “We’ve created a sensational culinary and musical odyssey that will intrigue both foodies and music lovers alike.” Watch as chefs showcase their skills in the tempting omakase menu ($175), which offers something new at each visit. Listen to the soundscapes created by the award-winning Steven Durr, a Nashvillian known for his work with Lenny Kravitz and Taylor Swift. Marvel at the design from Los Angeles-based studio Commune, inspired by Japan’s kissa bars. 888nashville.com
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Fogg Street Lawn Club
Looking for a great pint, great views and a great pastime? Fogg Street Lawn Club has all this and more. Nashville’s premier soccer pub and rooftop bowling club, those who make their way to this rooftop experience can delight in British-inspired entrees, draft beer, signature cocktails and plenty of whiskey choices while they enjoy Nashville panoramas in The Gulch. One of the main draws here, however, is the 15-lane lawn bowling “rinks,” with covered VIP seating, that’ll bring out your competitive side; the strategic sport is like bocce ball, but is played with large, hard resin balls that travel a curved path instead of moving straight. Private or social lanes are available. Fogg Street also hosts Nashville SC watch parties and has great happy hour specials. foggstreet.com
WHAT’S NEW
Try your hand at lawn bowling, which is similar to bocce ball but instead played with large, hard resin balls that follow a curved path instead of moving in a straight line.
British-inspired entrees and plenty of pints are on tap at Fogg Street Lawn Club, home to Nashville SC watch parties.
Little Words Project
“Kindness is a superpower,” says Adriana Carrig, founder and CEO of Little Words Project, wearable affirmations that remind us of our worth. It all started as a college project for Carrig; after years of bullying, she decided to take her sense of self back, and started making bracelets for herself and her sorority sisters. Today, her stores are in 14 markets and counting; sign up today for a beading party and design your own custom piece, or gifts for others. “Beadtenders” are on hand to help you choose your word, your colors and special charms. With refreshments included, it really is a party! Find the store inside the Fifth + Broadway shopping center. littlewordsproject.com
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Chief’s on Broadway
Among the many new honky tonks that have opened in the past year (for more info on those, visit our story on p. 27), Chief’s is a standout. The iconic Leslie Warner Building at 200 Broadway has been reimagined with a different experience on every floor: a ticketed music venue, a recording studio, a live performance space and a restaurant. For the latter, Chief’s brought in James Beard Award-winning chef Rodney Scott for Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ, which is situated on the rooftop, so guests can chow down with some great ‘que while taking in the sights and sounds of Nashville. Local musicians are celebrated here—Chief’s has a roster of 20 house artists you should put on your list to check out, stat. chiefsonbroadway.com
WHAT’S NEW
Chief's on Broadway encompasses five levels in the iconic Leslie Warner Building. Seen here is Chief's Tavern on Floor 1.
Among the many varied musical acts you'll fi nd at Chief's is dueling pianos, inside Friendly Shadows on Floor 2.
The Ariston
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This cocktail and cigar bar in downtown Nashville derives its name from the Greek word “aristos,” meaning “the best.” And indeed, you’ll find a selection of the finest cigars within its stylish environs; The Ariston is one of the few Davidoff Appointed Merchants in the area, and its selection features highend products from around the world. Tempting coffee, cocktail and charcuterie selections round out the experience, and The Ariston offers a series of pairings should you wish to sample your way through that way. It also has the country’s second private Byron Lounge for guests to reserve as an event space. thearistonbar.com
WHAT’S NEW
The Ariston’s cigar selection features high-end products from around the world. Its name comes from the Greek word for "the best."
In addition to top-notch cigars, discover premium spirits and elevated small plates to enjoy inside the timeless, comfortable respite.
Music may be the city’s claim to fame, but it’s just the beginning. Go beyond the velvet ropes to explore these destinations that make up the fabric of the city.
NASHVILLE
FIFTH + BROADWAY
Sitting behind Ryman Auditorium and just a stone’s throw from the honky tonks on Lower Broadway, the gleaming Fifth + Broadway is a feast for the senses. Here you’ll find the glorious Assembly Food Hall, a foodies’ dream with choices such as the Donut Distillery (don’t miss the Dreamsicle), Poke Nash Hawaiian Bowls, Cheese Lab Gourmet Grilled Cheese and Honeyfire Barbeque Co. Bars abound as well. Head to the Terrace Bar for an intimate space with incomparable views of the Ryman and Batman Building; the Concert Bar has two locations to the left and right of the entertainment stage, so you won’t miss any of the action. Looking for some retail therapy? The eclectic lineup of shops includes Buck Mason, Free People, Ariat, Carhartt, Garage Sale Vintage and the Little Words Project. 5055 Broadway Place, 615.800.5395, assemblyfoodhall.com
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSIC
One of the best interactive museums in the country, you’ll play the blues, R&B, soul and more for hours at this Lower Broadway draw. Headline a choir, produce a hit song, create your signature beat and much more at stations that abound throughout the museum. You could literally listen for hours as you learn more about an artist, hear about his or her influences and build playlists of your favorites. What’s best, you can save it all to the wristband you receive at entry, so you can listen to those playlists repeatedly. It’s a great place to discover new favorites, pay homage to the greats you’ve always loved and get a new perspective on the origins of African American music. 510 Broadway, 615.301.8724, nmaam.org
RYMAN AUDITORIUM
First opened as the Union Gospel Tabernacle by Captain Tom Ryman in 1892, Ryman Auditorium, aka “The Mother Church of Country Music,” is best known as the home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943-1974. After a fallow period, it regained its prominence in 1992, and today is considered one of the most acoustically sound venues for a concert in the United States. Its diverse stage lineup has included everyone from Emmylou Harris (who was instrumental in its conservation) to Bruce Springsteen and the Jonas Brothers. Still a religious experience for many, tours include a photo of yourself on the hallowed stage. 116 Rep. John Lewis Way N., 615.889.3060, ryman.com
COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM
For the genre’s faithful fans, this Nashville must-visit is the next best thing to heaven. A wall of gold records welcomes guests, while comprehensive galleries delve deep into the world of the greats like Johnny, Blake, Patsy, Dolly, Faith and Taylor via rhinestonestudded costumes, hand-written lyrics, priceless mementos and more. Induction to the Country Music Hall of Fame is considered country music’s highest honor. New members are elected annually by an anonymous panel chosen by the Country Music Association; the 2024 class is John Anderson, James Burton and Toby Keith. 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S., 615.416.2001, countrymusichalloffame.org
FRIST ART MUSEUM
Just a mile from Music City’s honky tonks, the Frist Art Museum sits on burgeoning Upper Broadway. It’s another kind of institution in Nashville, one where the community converges to view special exhibitions and take part in educational programs. Located in a building that once housed Nashville’s main post office (and is on the National Register of Historic Places), remnants of that former life can be seen today, in the high-ceiling sorting rooms that are now exhibition galleries, architectural features that express order and eagle sculptures, the official seal of the USPS. 919 Broadway, 615.244.3340, fristartmuseum.org
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HATCH SHOW PRINT
In 1879, this famous letterpress print shop produced its first piece of collateral—a 6-by-9-inch handbill announcing a lecture by Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, brother of author Harriet Beecher Stowe. Since then, the historic shop has created posters for artists ranging from Opry greats like Minnie Pearl to the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen and B.B. King. Hatch Show Print is still a first choice for today’s touring acts, so you’ll find a slew of freshly designed prints every day. Fittingly, it’s adjacent to the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. 224 Rep. John Lewis Way S., 615.577.7710, hatchshowprint.com
GRAND OLE OPRY
The Grand Ole Opry has been a Nashville institution since 1925, when a radio announcer introduced fiddle player Uncle Jimmy Thompson on a new show called “The WSN Barn Dance.” Many performance spaces and almost 100 years later, it’s still the cement block that anchors Music City and has launched the careers of countless performers. Its newest backstage tour details that rich history with an immersive film in the custom-built Circle Room. The stories of country music’s most iconic artists come alive here; through the 23.1 surroundsound system with speakers in the ceiling and walls, you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of a concert. 600 Opry Mills Drive, 800.733.6779, opry.com
ADVENTURE SCIENCE CENTER
The premiere learning center in Middle Tennessee, the Adventure Science Center is home to more than 175 hands-on exhibits the whole family can enjoy. Among the fun activities visitors can explore here are the Infinium Room, which invites you to immerse yourself in the concept of infinity by removing the boundaries of reality; the Soundbox exhibit, which lets you visualize sound waves; and the Vapor Vortex, which realizes Sir Isaac Newton’s First Law of Motion. Take a look at the Wonders of the Universe in the center’s newest exhibit—the highlight is the Mars Curiosity Rover, which is on loan from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The rover, which stands approximately 7 feet tall, is part of the Mars diorama, an immersive look at the Red Planet with an opportunity to touch a real Mars meteorite. 800 Fort Negley Blvd., 615.862.5160, adventuresci.org
MADAME TUSSAUDS WAX MUSEUM
Madame Tussauds Nashville invites you to enter a realm where hyper-realistic celebrity wax figures spring to life in captivating displays. From covering top hits in a real recording booth to grooving on the dance floor in the Soul Lounge, there’s nonstop excitement waiting for you! Pop fans and rock enthusiasts alike can take selfies with their favorite musicians in multiple interactive exhibits. Take center stage with country stars for a grand finale performance as the crowd’s cheer elevates you to new heights. Madame Tussauds Nashville offers a symphony of sights and sounds that resonate long after the visit ends. Among the icons to meet are Reba McEntire, Minnie Pearl, Luke Bryan, Kid Rock, Elvis and Harry Styles. Opry Mills, adjacent to the Grand Ole Opry, 615.485.4867, madametussauds.com/Nashville
ANDREW JACKSON’S HERMITAGE
One of the oldest and largest historic site museums in the United States, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage encompasses 1,120 acres and was the seventh president’s home, office and social parlor from 1804 until his death in 1845. It’s also home to the Jackson burial site, where Andrew and his beloved wife Rachel, who died in 1828, are reunited. Enslaved people also lived on the property, and those who wish to do more than visit the Jacksons’ former dwellings can board a wagon tour, which takes them into the plantation fields, and attend the special presentation “In Their Footsteps.” 4580 Rachel’s Lane, 615.889.2941, thehermitage.com
CHEEKWOOD
This hidden gem boasts gorgeous botanic and cultivated gardens and woodland trails that cover the 55 acres surrounding the Cheek family’s 1930s Georgian mansion. It’s a place to seek your Zen—with or without a meditative session at the Shōmu-en Japanese garden. The estate also serves as a museum of art, with a nod to botanical and colorful works in its gallery, while the Ann & Monroe Carell Jr. Family Sculpture Trail boasts contemporary installations. No matter what the season, there’s always something delightful at Cheekwood— from thousands of blooming bulbs in spring to a mile of holiday lights in winter. 1200 Forrest Park Drive, 615.356.8000, cheekwood.org
NASHVILLE ZOO
The ninth-largest zoo in the United States by land mass, the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere has developed only 86 of its 188 acres—so new exhibits are continually on the horizon. Among them is Expedition Peru: Trek of the Andean Bear, which highlights the characteristics of the gentle mammal and supports the species’ conservation. The new Tiger Crossroads features Asian architectural elements and reinforced glass panels for optimum viewing of the zoo’s Sumatran tigers. For additional unforgettable interactions, the zoo’s Backstage Pass (additional purchase required) lets you interact with giraffes, giant tortoises and red pandas. 3777 Nolensville Pike, 615.833.1534. nashvillezoo.
BELMONT MANSION
Built in 1850 as the summer home of Joseph and Adelicia Acklen (said to have been the wealthiest woman in America during the mid 1800s), this Italianate villa is furnished with original and period pieces. Two women from Philadelphia purchased the mansion in 1890 and opened a women’s school, using the home for dorms and classrooms. Today, Belmont University owns the property and operates it as a house museum. Of note are the works of art in the front entry hall, the majestic staircase leading to the Grand Salon and the Polk Clock, given by Sarah Polk, the widow of President James K. Polk. 1900 Belmont Blvd., 615.460.5459, belmontmansion.com
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NASHVILLE FARMERS MARKET
Spanning 12 acres in the urban core of downtown next to the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, the Nashville Farmers Market is open year round and is home to farmers, food artisans, restaurateurs, shop owners, crafters, flea special events, workshops, classes, chef demos and more. The open-air, outdoor Farm Sheds consist of two large covered areas that serve as a home to more than 100 farmers and merchants offering seasonal goods and produce, while the indoor Market House consists of more than two dozen locally owned restaurants and shops serving cuisines that span the globe, from Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas to Greek gyros to Jamaican jerk chicken and Korean bibimbap. 900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., 615.880.2001, nashvillefarmersmarket.org
JOHNNY CASH MUSEUM & FOOD HALL
In 2013, Bill Miller, a mega-fan of the Man in Black, opened this tribute museum with the world’s largest and most comprehensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the musician’s life. Here, visitors can listen to Cash’s hits by decade, view his guitars, costumes, records, even handwritten lyrics, watch videos and much more. In 2023, it was voted the Best Music Museum in the Country by USA Today. Adjacent is the Johnny Cash Kitchen & Saloon, which serves up unfussy Southern favorites; Swett’s Restaurant, a fixture in the Nashville community long adored by Johnny and June, prepares the eats. 119 3rd Ave. S., 615.256.1777, johnnycashmuseum.com
All About the Music
Get to know Nashville through its varied musical experiences.
BY JENNIFER MCKEE
Nashville isn’t just about the country music.
It’s a place for people who love music, period. And just as there are many different genres of music, there are many ways to experience it in Nashville. Here are all the ways to go about it.
Nashville’s Fisk Jubilee Singers are the reason Nashville has the nickname “Music City.” In the 1870s, part of the group’s world tour included a performance for Queen Victoria, who is said to have remarked that the singers must have come from a “city of music.”
The Fisk Jubilee Singers still tour today, and if you’re lucky, you can catch a Nashville performance. Venues vary around town, but most recently, they’ve performed on site at
Fisk University, the Tennessee Performing Arts Center and two of Music City’s most famed institutions: the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium.
HISTORIC STAGES
Catching a performance at the Grand Ole Opry is electric. If you have preconceived notions on what to expect, throw those by the wayside, because it’s hard to anticipate how the bill will shape up each night.
The first time I visited the Opry, it was a last-minute decision before leaving town the next day. I had never been to this country music institution. The lineup paid tribute to a man I had never heard of until then: bluegrass legend
Del Coury. But all the luminaries came out to honor Coury; among them Marty Stuart, Vince Gill and Dierks Bentley. The crowd was completely into it, the enthusiasm contagious. If I had decided against it simply because I wasn’t familiar with the genre, I would have missed out on a great show.
The second visit was completely different. The lineup featured the debut of a new superstar, Carin Leon, a country singer from Mexico who rocked so hard, the Opry is probably still shaking in his aftermath.
Two completely different concerts, two supremely enjoyable shows. That’s the great thing about the Opry: Variety. It’s been a Nashville staple since 1925, when it debuted as a radio show (that still streams today).
The other venue you shouldn’t miss is the Ryman Auditorium. First opened as the Union Gospel Tabernacle by Captain Tom Ryman, the “Mother Church of Country Music” is considered one of the most acoustically sound venues for music in the United States. It’s been around since 1892, and after a fallow period, was
Clockwise from top left: Darius Rucker performs on the iconic Grand Ole Opry stage; Tanya Tucker's pop-up bar at the classic Nudie's honky tonk; throngs of people at Morgan Wallen's This Bar, which opened in 2024; the hallowed Ryman Auditorium.
restored in the ‘90s by stars such as Emmylou Harris, who was instrumental in its conservation. Take a tour, after which you’ll have a chance to stand on its hallowed stage and come back for a concert later. It’s still a religious experience for many; be sure to get a photo of yourself on the hallowed stage.
HONKY TONK HIGHWAY
This fun zone, which runs from 5th to 1st avenues on Lower Broadway, should be a stop for every visitor, even if you just walk down the
sidewalk and listen to the music spilling out from honky tonks’ open doors and windows.
Honky tonks are all the rage nowadays, and everyone who’s anyone in country music has opened up a multi-level establishment to lure in patrons with the latest in acoustics, design, top-notch cuisine and downtown views that don’t quit. In 2024 alone, Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson, Old Dominion, Eric Church (read more about Chief’s on p. 12) and Luke Combs, plus a bevy of others, including rocker Jon Bon Jovi, have
opened honky tonks on Lower Broadway. Also, Tanya Tucker has opened a pop up bar, Tequila Cantina, inside the legendary Nudie’s.
You’ll find Nudie’s, along with other classic honky tonks, when you walk the Honky Tonk Highway closer to the the Assembly Food Hall (so much great food here!) An outfitter to the stars, Nudie Cohn created over-the-top costumes for himself, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and John Wayne, among many others. Nearby, you'll find Robert's Western World, Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, Legends Corner, The Second
Clockwise from left: Lainey Wilson's Bell Bottoms Up, a honky tonk that opened in 2024; the Country Music Hall of Fame is a classic Nashville stop; the National Museum of African American Music is one of the best interactive music experiences in the United States.
Fiddle and The Stage. Stars who've graced these stages include Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Tim McGraw, Kix Brooks, Wynonna Judd, Toby Keith, Darius Rucker and Kid Rock.
MUSIC MUSEUMS
Just up from Honky Tonk Highway on Fifth + Broadway, lies one of the best interactive music museums in the country. At the National Museum of African American Music, you can headline a choir, produce a hit song, create your own signature beat and listen to artists’ cata-
logues at stations that abound throughout the museum. Use the wristband you receive upon entry to save playlists you create at these kiosks so you can play them repeatedly.
A little further away, but still within walking distance, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum awaits. A wall of gold records welcomes you; then comprehensive galleries delve deep into the world of greats like Johnny, Blake, Patsy, Dolly, Faith and, of course, Taylor, via rhinestone-studded costumes, hand-written lyrics, priceless mementoes and performance
videos. You could literally spend the whole day here, watching videos and reading up on your favorite singers. But there’s so much to see, you may need half a dozen trips to take it all in.
Also downtown, the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum honors music makers regardless of genre. Exhibits are displayed geographically and tell stories of music in Memphis, Los Angeles, Muscle Shoals, Ala., Atlanta, New York, Detroit and, or course, Nashville. Don’t miss the American Sound Studio, where Elvis Presley recorded some of his biggest hits, plus a Jimi
Top and bottom left: The Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates all genres of music, and those behind the music. Top and bottom right: The performance hall and statue outside the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Nashville's cultural heart.
Hendrix’ Stratocaster guitar and the stage he performed on when he played Nashville’s Jolly Roger, a basement nightclub in Printers Alley that was popular in the 1960s. The museum also tells the story of the talented folks behind the scenes, such as session musicians, engineers and producers.
SIDE TRIP: THE HATCH SHOW PRINT TOUR
Next door to the Country Music HOF is Hatch Show Print, famous for the colorful handbills
that have been used to advertise everyone from Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, who appeared on its first piece of collateral, to Minnie Pearl, B.B. King, the Rolling Stones and the Jonas Brothers. When you take the behind-the-scenes tour, you get to create your very own handbill, which you roll yourself. It’s fun to see the many and varied prints of artists who have appeared in and beyond Nashville throughout the years.
A CLASSICAL POWERHOUSE
Just down the block from the Country Music
HOF, The Schermerhorn is the home of the Nashville Symphony and a full breath of events that showcase popular bands, movies, cultural celebrations, children’s programs and one-man shows. This well-crafted concert hall was opened by Leonard Slatkin in 2006 and is one of the few halls nationwide to feature natural interior light through 30 special soundproof windows. Its custom-built concert organ contains 47 voices, 64 ranks and more than 3,500 pipes with three 32-foot stops that create a lyrical, expressive timbre. But don’t take our word for it, visit yourself.
Clockwise from left: A sign advertises live music in downtown Nashville; songwriters on stage at the Bluebird Café, which was made popular by "Nashville" the TV series; a man walks past the mural for The Listening Room Cafe.
LISTENING ROOMS
Listening rooms became all the rage after the TV series “Nashville” prominently featured the Bluebird Café; that listening room still is one of the most coveted reservations in Nashville. But there are many more great such rooms in Nashville.
For those unfamiliar with the format, a listening room usually features 3-4 singer/songwriters with nothing more than a chair and a guitar. Some have written music’s most popular songs; others are just starting out. It’s a journey of dis-
covery. Most usually have some kind of cover charge, in the form of dinner a drink minimum. They’re casual and perfect for when you just want to come as you are.
You may be able to find one in your hotel lounge, as I did on my first trip to Nashville, where I sat in every single night. Others are (a bit) more structured, but our favorites are The Listening Room Café and any Puckett’s—you can also find Puckett’s in other markets, so be on the lookout when you travel.
PRINTERS ALLEY
One of the hottest tickets in town is a burlesque show at Skull’s Rainbow Room; the shows take place on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. If you’re comfortable with topless shows, the crowd is mixed, the numbers stylish and tasteful. Live jazz is also on the schedule nightly.
One door over, the Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar is true Music City gem. It’s home to Stacy Mitchhart, a longtime Nashville singer who's been performing on
A wide variety of music options can be had in Printers Alley. From the Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar (top left) to Rudy's Jazz Room (top right) to burlesque and karaoke, there's never a dull night in this alley that's steps from the honky tonks of Lower Broadway.
Music City stages for decades. Even if you wander in tired, you’ll feel like getting up to dance to Mitchhart’s sets—so the bar is true to its moniker.
You’ll also find Nashville’s favorite karaoke spot tucked into Printers Alley. Lonnie’s Western Room is known for its large song selection and is open Thursday through Sunday nights. You never know who you might rub elbows with here—celebs who’ve recently taken up the mic include Kathy Griffin, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and Jimmy Fallon.
WITNESS HISTORY
MAKE AN IMPRESSION
One of America’s oldest working letterpress print shops, Hatch Show Print has designed and printed posters and advertisements by hand since 1879. Daily tours of the print shop o er insights into its storied history and an opportunity to get inky by nishing your own commemorative print.
STEP INSIDE THE STORY
e Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum exhibitions tell the story of country music through the lives and artifacts of those who shaped the sound, including members of the Country Music Hall of Fame, whose honorary plaques are housed in the Rotunda. Visitors are invited to attend programs, live performances, family-friendly workshops, and more.
STAND WHERE THEY STOOD
A recording home to artists including Waylon Jennings, Dolly Parton, and Elvis Presley, among many others, Historic RCA Studio B produced hundreds of hits between 1957 and 1977. Daily tours o er an opportunity to step inside those famous sessions and stand right where icons made music history.
Elvis Presley in RCA Studio B, 1958
Luke Combs and his wife, Nicole, in the exhibit Luke Combs: The Man I Am, 2024
A Taste of the Town
Fascinating origin stories behind iconic Nashville foods. BY MARY SKINNER
It is often said that the best way to experience local culture is by sampling the dishes and food products the city has become known for. Nashville, also known as Music City, has a vibrant food culture that has become as popular as the tunes visitors hear as they wander the downtown streets.
One of Nashville’s most popular menu items, Hot Chicken, was born out of revenge. Thornton Prince, the father of Nashville’s hot chicken, was known a real ladies’ man. One night after Prince came home smelling of another woman’s perfume, his jilted lover wanted payback. She decided to fry up a batch of Prince’s favorite meal, fried chicken, and sabotage the batter by adding hot peppers and other potent spices. Instead of being revolted, Prince loved it!
Almost 100 years ago, Prince perfected the recipe for hot chicken and opened up his restaurant—Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack. Today Thornton Prince’s great niece, Ms. Andre Prince Jeffries, is still serving the
legendary dish that Nashvillians crave. The hot chicken trend has caught on like wildfire and is now an international sensation. Prince’s Hot Chicken is the original recipe, and it is now served in four locations around town. This fiery fowl can be found on the menu in many area restaurants including Bolton’s Hot Chicken & Fish, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken and Party Fowl.
Mouth-watering Southern fried chicken and made-from scratch, buttery biscuits made the Loveless Cafe famous. This former motel diner sits on the outskirts of Nashville, about a 30-minute drive south of town near the Natchez Trace Parkway, so reservations are recommended before you go. The restaurant walls are packed with autographed photographs of all the celebrities who have frequented the place. The former motel rooms have been converted into shops and art galleries. The Loveless Cafe’s popularity has led to entire line of food products which include biscuit mix, jams and smoked meats.
Clockwise from top left: Prince's Hot Chicken was born out of revenge; Thistle Farms Cafe's restaurant and products; Maxwell House advertisement and the Maxwell House Hotel (no longer standing). Opening page: The Loveless Cafe's famous biscuits.
Maxwell House Coffee, one of America’s top selling coffee brands, originated in Nashville. In 1892 Joel Cheek, a wholesale grocer, with the help of Roger Smith, a British coffee broker, perfected the recipe of roasting coffee beans. Cheek named the brand after the Maxwell House Hotel in downtown Nashville, the first place to serve his coffee.
President Theodore Roosevelt stayed at Maxwell House in 1907. People said he called the coffee, “good to the last drop.” Most likely, he didn’t actually say this, but the story became famous, and the company even used it in advertising campaigns.
One of the investors in Maxwell House Coffee was Joel’s cousin Leslie Cheek. With the fortune Leslie made when the company was sold to General Mills in 1928, he purchased 100 park-like acres near Belle Meade and built a palatial 30,000-square-foot Georgian-style mansion. In 1959, his heirs offered the mansion and its grounds to the city of Nashville to be used as an art museum and botanical gardens.
Cheekwood Estate & Gardens is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the city’s top cultural attractions.
In 1997, Rebecca Stevens, an Episcopal priest, founded Thistle Farms as a justice enterprise to provide a pathway to healing for women caught in cycles of sex trafficking, prostitution and addiction. This enterprise has led to a successful brand of body and home products which can be found in local shops around town. With its popular slogan: "Love Heals" the nonprofit has earned the attention
of several celebrities who gift products to their friends, including Reese Witherspoon, who grew up in Nashville.
The Café and Shop at Thistle Farms opened in 2013 off Charlotte Pike in the Sylvan Park neighborhood. It is wonderful place to experience a late breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea. The ceiling is adorned with teacups around a chandelier, and each is a gift from a survivor or supporter from around the world, including volunteers, celebrities, a holocaust survivor and Thistle Farms program graduates.
The Cheeks were the family behind Maxwell House Co ee and also owned the 100-acre Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, which was home to a palatial Georgian mansion now used as an art museum (above). The Goo Goo Cluster (below left) is synonymous with Music City; patrons can now create their own versions, which are made before their very eyes.
If you have a sweet tooth, be sure and sample a Goo Goo Cluster! In 1912, in a copper kettle at the Standard Candy Company in Nashville, America's first combination candy bar was invented. This round mound of caramel, marshmallow nougat, fresh roasted peanuts and real milk chocolate was christened “Goo Goo.”
There is an interesting story of how the candy was named. A popular myth is due to Goo Goo’s longtime partnership with the Grand Ole Opry, so many assumed the candy’s name meant GOO = Grand Ole Opry. However, the Opry was formed in 1925, 13 years after the candy was introduced. In reality the company’s founder, Mr. Howell Campbell, Sr., named it after his young son’s first words: “goo goo.” The first marketing campaign became “Go get a Goo Goo, it’s good!” It was such a success that many still identify one with the other.
To sample or purchase this tasty treat, visit the Goo Goo Cluster Chocolate Company in downtown Nashville. Not only can you purchase the candy there, but you can also
design your chocolatey confection and take away a truly sweet souvenir.
Few people realize that the cotton candy machine was invented in Nashville. In 1897, dentist William James Morrison and candy maker John C. Wharton created a machine that spun sugar into fluffy strands. They called their invention "Fairy Floss" and patented it that same year. The machine was a ceramic bowl with a mixing device that heated and spun granulated sugar. The machine was first displayed at the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis, where the pair sold 68,655 boxes of Fairy Floss.
Morrison and Wharton sold the machine to the Electric Candy Machine Company in Nashville, which then marketed it around the world. Now cotton candy is enjoyed across the globe at county fairs, carnivals and street festivals. Locally, you can find cotton candy all year round at the Savannah Candy Kitchen downtown. Grab a fluffy confection to go and enjoy it while you take in the ambiance of the Lower Broadway Honky-Tonk District, as the locals call it.
Purity Dairy started with one delivery truck in 1925; now the combined Purity/ Mayfield Dairy has more than 100 products across Tennessee, Alabama and Kentucky. FInd its ice cream at the Elliston Place Soda Shop (left).
Owned by a cooperative of passionate farm families, Purity Dairy is one of the only remaining dairies in the Nashville area. Started with just one delivery truck in 1925, the combined Purity/Mayfield Dairy now offers more than 100 products throughout Tennessee, Alabama and Kentucky. Its popular ice cream can be found on many local dessert menus.
If you want to sample the delicious flavors of this locally sourced ice cream seek out Elliston Place Soda Shop, whose menu includes a wide variety of sundaes, milkshakes and floats. It also has an exclusive sweet cream shake base, which enhances the flavor of any item ordered from its famous soda fountain. A local favorite since 1939, the menu also offers Nashville hot chicken, fried green tomatoes and other Southern cuisine staples.
Savor Nashville’s culinary treasures with every bite you experience. Hot and cold, sweet or spicy, the city has much to offer with those who have an adventurous palate.
The Cat’s Pajamas
Need some cuddle time with a furry friend? Visit The Catio, Nashville’s cat cafe.
BY JENNIFER MCKEE
Most major U.S. cities now have at least one cat cafe. For the uninitiated animal lover, cat cafes are the ultimate place to relax. Travel is hard on any pet parent—leaving your fur baby behind is a lonely prospect, especially if you globetrot solo. You long for the cuddles, a wet nose rubbing up against you. Even those playful love bites are missed.
In Nashville, friendly felines are only steps away from the Grand Ole Opry. That’s where you’ll find The Catio, home to rescue kitties from the Nashville Cat Rescue. One of the best parts of visiting a cat cafe (aside from just hanging out with the cats) is that you’re helping
them on their journey to find a forever home. By playing with them and engaging them, you’re helping to socialize them, so when adoption time comes, the cats can more easily adapt to their new homes. So, grab that wand toy and throw that ball, it’s good for you both!
Visiting a cat cafe is one of the most relaxing things you can do on vacation—the cats want to love up on you as much as you do on them. It’s an hour to just be, to let them reveal their personalities to you as you play or just let them sit on your lap the whole time. The Catio limits group sizes to maximize one-on-one interactions. Group rates are available, as are private rentals—can you think of a better place to hold a birthday party for your favorite cat lover?
Prepackaged snacks can be taken into the cafe, and you can also show your support with a merchandise purchase. About 30 to 40 cats are on site at The Catio at any one time, and all are spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated.
Online booking is encouraged (one-hour increments), but if you’re unsure of your schedule, walk-ins are allowed (one-hour and half-hour increments).
The Catio runs on donations, and thanks to its generous supporters, recently doubled its space in March 2024, moving into a new suite with a separate room dedicated to senior cats, shy cats and those with disabilities. This is particularly important because there are no rescue organizations that focus on senior cats in overcrowded shelters. The Catio rehomes approximately 1,000 cats a year and has an average turnaround of about 14 days from when cats arrive at the cafe to when they’re placed in a loving home.
Should you wish to adopt (and you will), most adoptions are same day if all your paperwork is in order. Special events abound at The Catio, whether it be cat yoga or bingo, movie or painting nights. Stay up to date with everything offered at facebook.com/CatioNashville.
Here are a few helpful tips to remember, no matter what cat cafe you visit:
•It’s all about the adoptable kitties. Personal pets are not allowed.
• Cat cafes have a system of double doors separating the front room from the cafe. ALWAYS be sure you close the first door before opening the second.
• Do not pick up the cats. Let the cats come to you.
• Be gentle with the cats and talk in soft tones.
• Never wake a sleeping cat.
• It’s fine to approach a cat sitting in the open, but if it’s hiding inside a house or underneath a table, don’t reach in. Rather, try to engage the cat with a wand toy.
• Follow the house rules.
• Take lots of photos!
Where next?
More of our favorites to note for your future travels:
CHESHIRE GRIN CAT CAFE
St. Louis
We love this cat cafe so much; we follow it on social media. That’s because there’s always another lucky kitty going to its forever home, and the photos are priceless. You’ll feel that way about the cats when you meet them in person.
CRUMBS & WHISKERS
Washington D.C. and Los Angeles
Come inside, take off your shoes and sink into the plush surroundings—thick rugs are strategically placed, making playtime easy. Bonded pairs are tagged and must go home together. Many cats here have been rescued from overseas locales such as Thailand and the Ukraine.
THE
KITTY
BEAUTIFUL
AND ORLANDO CAT CAFE
Orlando
After a day of running around at the theme parks, spend some down time with adoptable cats. The Orlando Cat Cafe was the first of its kind to open in Central Florida and is just four miles west of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Find The Kitty Beautiful, where the felines are indeed that, in downtown Orlando. Bongo, its resident cat, is a social media sensation.
MAC TABBY CAT CAFE
Charlotte, Concord and Salisbury, N.C.
A lifelong cat lover and photographer is behind this cat cafe with three locations in the Charlotte area. Given the prominence of coffee shops and craft breweries in Charlotte, patrons can kick back with a coffee drink or craft beer when socializing with the cats.
Judith Bright (left) has always loved mixing and matching jewelry, and when you visit her Nashville-area stores, you'll be able to build a look that's part of your sensibility.
Nashville Nuets
Unique pieces to take home from Music City.
BY JENNIFER MCKEE
Nashville’s shopping scene, like many of its honky tonks, museums and neighborhoods, has a great sense of history behind it. Discover the stories of our favorite stores and take home a piece that’s quintessentially Nashville.
JUDITH BRIGHT
Exquisite gemstone jewelry takes the spotlight at Judith Bright, where artisans handcraft each piece to last a lifetime. Whether you prefer delicate necklaces or bold cuffs, there’s something for every fashion sense, in every color under the rainbow. In 2003, Bright moved her family to Italy to study as a jewelry designer. She’d always adored jewelry; one of her favorite games is “playing rings”—seeing how many ways one can stack and combine rings on a finger. She launched her home business in 2005 and opened her flagship store at The Mall in Green Hills in 2010. Today, you can find her stores in 12South, The Nations and The Factory at Franklin. judithbright.com
HATWRKS
For quality, one-of-a-kind hats in styles you have and may not have heard of, look no further than hatWRKS. Among the styles you’ll find are beaver, rabbit, straw, Western, fedora, beanie and pork pie hats in a variety of shapes and sizes, in addition to a series of unforgettable original designs that are handmade on site. The store opened in 2011 and
was initially a workshop for owner Gigi Gaskins’ custom hats, but the store blossomed once it began sourcing unique brands from across the globe. It now has more than 15,000 hats in stock at any one time and is a true destination for hat lovers worldwide. Have a question? Don’t be afraid to ask, they’re the hat experts. hatwrks.com
CINDI EARL FINE JEWELRY
Cindi Earl Fine Jewelry focuses on fashion-forward pieces with twist. Earl and her team of artisans create styles that are both contemporary but harken to the classics. Here, you’ll find pieces that are inspired by nature, use a variety of different shapes, are tactile and incorporate only the finest of materials. Designs are bright and bold, slim and sweet, and everything in between. Stop in for a trunk show, or to walk through all the beautiful and varied creations. Cindi Earl has been in business in Nashville for more than 20 years. cindiearl.com
HAYMAKERS & CO.
Garden & Gun and Southern Living have named Haymakers & Co. one of the best shops in the South, and when you step through its doors, you’ll immediately see why. This modernday men’s mercantile has it all—impeccable clothing, leather goods, shoes, custom clothing made on site, a fullservice barber shop and even libations as you shop. From premium denim to three-piece suits, Haymakers makes a
sharp-dressed man. Among the many brands you’ll find include Peter Millar, Maurizio Baldassari, Citizens of Humanity, LBM 1911 and Ring Jacket. haymakersandconashville.com
J. MICHAEL CLOTHIERS
Next door to Haymakers is J. Michael Clothiers, known as not only Nashville’s bespoke clothing expert, but America’s. Founded in 1989, the business grew when its representatives visited accomplished men in their homes and offices and built each client’s wardrobe from the ground up. Housed in a historic home in the West End, J. Michaels carries formal suits, sport coats, polos, sweaters, chinos, shoes and belts. It also has its own private label. Tailoring service is available, and the bar is well-stocked. jmichaelsclothiersnashville.com
AWAY
Head to this travel-essential nirvana for brightly colored and distinctly shaped travel pieces. In addition to supremely well-made roller bags and totes, you’ll find all the smaller conveyances you need for stowing in your carry-ons, such as mini crossbodies, card cases, zip pouches and sling bags, plus lovely travel cubes that’ll have you packing like a pro in no time. Need a pet carrier, a garment bag or multi-purpose duffel? You’ll find them all, and much more. Many pieces are available in more than a dozen colors, and are sturdy yet lightweight. The textures are also a dream—so go ahead, touch everything! awaytravel.com
LANDMARK BOOKSELLERS
Offering a carefully curated selection of
Clockwise from left: Discover the best regional selections and authors at Landmark Booksellers; travel essentials and covetable pieces can be found in every color under the rainbow at Away; J. Michael Clothiers helps every man find his best look by curating wardrobe choices.
old, new and rare books, this independent bookstore in Franklin offers all the charm of a shop you’d expect in a historic main street district. Owners Joel and Carol Tomlin have Tennessee roots that date back to 1802, and are dedicated to showcasing Southern Americana, Tennessee, regional and local history, culture, art and literature. Here you’ll find everything such as the latest release from a local author to first-edition pieces that range into the thousands of dollars. When they say “landmark,” they mean it—the bookstore is housed in an antebellum building circa 1808 and is the oldest commercial building still standing in Franklin. landmarkbooksellers.com
AMY HEAD COSMETICS
Women of all ages and ethnicities will find the
beauty products that are right from them at this family-owned emporium in Germantown. The store was built on a simple concept: love. Love for others and the love of self. It was through that self- love that founder Amy Head developed her beauty techniques, which you can learn through a personal consultation (with a minimum three-product purchase). Most products are vegan and talc-free, but all are non-comedogenic, phthalate-free, glutenfree, paraben-free and lead-free. amyhead.com
FOREVERMORE
Come in and play for a while—but first, kick back with a beverage made from some of Nashville’s best local coffee purveyors. Sustainability is front and center at Forevermore; owners J.P. and Mary McLeod come up with their
business model after spending four years in Uganda, where they developed a passion for great coffee, meaningful connections and learned firsthand about how thrift-store clothes end up in landfills overseas, opening their eyes to the importance of shopping secondhand. See the thought that’s gone into Forevermore’s selections, and learn more during one of the special events on its calendar. forevermorenashville.com
JADE & CLOVER
More great coffee, plus a plant bar where you can create your own green oases are in store for you at Jade & Clover. Just choose a planter or terrarium, succulents or house plants, then a team member will guide you through the rest of the process. Other fun eco-conscious
takeaways include candles, socks, cocktail kits and accessories and eclectic pieces for the home. jadeandclover.com
SPERRY’S MERCANTILE
Bring home a taste of Nashville and enjoy Sperry’s Steakhouse products in your kitchen. This gourmet grocery store and butcher shop offers premium-quality meats (our mouths water at the prospect of plunging a knife and fork into a blue cheese-stuffed filet), seafood and Sperry’s signature sides. There’s also a full complement of sauces and seasonings, such as Sperry’s Black Label Sauce, Gourmet Duck Fat Cooking Oil Spray and Whodini Sisters Bloody Mary Potion. We’ll take one of everything! sperrysmercantile.com
Left to right: Discover beautiful, natural cosmetics for every ethnicity type at Amy Head Cosmetics; Cindi Earl merges modern and classic looks in her stunning jewelry collections.
GET TO KNOW
Nashville’s neighborhoods are full of color, whether it be from their murals, music halls or green spaces. Let us show you their environs in a whole new light.
Wedgewood-Houston
Discover art around every corner in Wedgewood-Houston (WeHo), known for its proliferation of galleries. Every first Saturday is the WeHo Art Crawl, where art lovers hop between a dozen galleries within walking distance of each other. This neighborhood, just south of downtown Nashville, is a cultural hub full of artists and entrepreneurs, and that creativity extends to its restaurants, breweries and distilleries. Discover craft tacos and must-try margaritas at Butchertown Hall, scratch-made pasta and pizzas at Il Forno and a micro-chocolatier at Poppy & Peep. Diskin Cider, Nashville’s only craft cidery, calls WeHo home, as does. The Nashville Craft Distillery, full of boutique creations. WeHo is also where you’ll find the Fairgrounds Nashville, home to the Nashville Flea Market, Nashville Speedway, the Tennessee State Fair and Adventure Science Center. welcometowedgewood.com
GET TO KNOW
Music Valley
Great food and nonstop entertainment make Music Valley a don’t-miss stop. It’s a place the hottest names in country music frequent—the Grand Ole Opry is located here, and it should be at the top of your itinerary. You can also rub elbows with the stars at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, where you can spend all day glamming it up in the interactive attraction. Madame Tussauds is located inside Opry Mills, and when hunger calls, you’re in the right place for some of Nashville’s best restaurants. Try the Bavarian Bierhaus, where it’s Oktoberfest every day. Imaginative choices include the Flammkuchen (a flatbread with cream cheese, bacon and red onions), the Jager ‘Shroom Burger and various types of schnitzel (including Nashville hot chicken). When in need of some downtime, the adorable, adoptable felines at The Catio beckon. visitmusiccity.com/ explore-nashville/neighborhoods/opryland
Berry Hill
This eclectic neighborhood is its own city. Berry Hill lies just south of downtown, beyond Eight Avenue South, and you’ll feel its flavor when you approach. Funky independent shops, restaurants, recording studios and publishers have taken up residence in many of the homes, giving Berry Hill the appearance of a residential neighborhood at first. It lends a relaxed air to discovery here, with fun experiences such as the Gaslamp Antique and Decorating Mall, the Paddywax Candle Bar (seen here, which offers DIY candle pouring workshops), Hugh-Baby’s BBQ and Burger Shop and Tennessee Whiskey Tours. Berry Hill was developed after World War II on the site of Elmwood, the family farm of the W. W. Berry family, for which it is named. In addition to its small businesses, Berry Hill boasts four city parks. visitmusiccity.com/ explore-nashville/neighborhoods/berry-hill
GET TO KNOW
East Nashville
A food- and drink-centric neighborhood across the Cumberland River from downtown, East Nashville has long been known as a creative hot spot and for its cultural diversity. Margot Cafe & Bar first put this neighborhood on the map as a must-visit dining destination; Fancypants, Lady Bird Taco, Limo Peruvian eatery and the Bad Luck Burger Club are among the restaurants that opened here in 2024. Into craft beer? The East Nashville Beer Works is another don’t-miss. Two musts before you leave the ‘hood: Donut Distillery—the delights are many, but we love the Drunken Swine shake, blended with Tennessee whiskey and Sweet Swine Donuts—and Grimey’s, an institution, with new and used vinyl, CDs, you name it; be sure you check out both floors. visitmusiccity.com/explore-nashville/neighborhoods/east-nashville
12South
The ultimate walkable neighborhood, 12South’s half-mile main stretch puts local artisans in the spotlight, mixing Southern chains such as Holly Williams’ White’s Mercantile (above) and Reese Witherspoon’s Draper James with unique local boutiques and vintage shops. You’ll find stunning jewelry at Serendipity, contemporary women’s clothing at Emerson Grace and premium denim at Imogene + Willie. 12South is also dotted with some of Nashville’s best restaurants and coffee shops; for gourmet cookies and doughnuts, visit the Christie Cookie Co. and Five Daughters Bakery; the small-batch creations are unforgettable at Butter Milk Ranch; Frothy Monkey serves up one of our favorite cups of joe in town; surf-and-turf lovers will be at home at Urban Grub. Park the car and make the jaunt on a sunny afternoon. visitmusiccity.com/explorenashville/neighborhoods/12south
GET TO KNOW
Printers Alley
Dating back to 1830, Printers Alley was the first site of Nashville’s printing industry. It was still home to publishers and printers serving the city’s largest newspapers, The Tennessean and the Nashville Banner, in 1915. Being tucked behind the honky tonks on Lower Broadway, it was popular spot for speakeasies during Prohibition, and for the modern-day speakeasy, Sinatra Bar & Lounge. Today, the entertainment district is known for its bars and nightclubs, such as the lauded Skull’s Rainbow Room (don’t even try to get in without a reservation), and the Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar, known for its who’s-who list of performers. The historic district still houses 15 commercial structures that date from 1874 to 1929. nashvilledowntown.com/go/printers-alley
GET TO KNOW
Germantown
Named for the influx of German immigrants in the mid-19th century, Germantown is full of period charm, with restaurants housed in restored Victorian buildings, boutiques found in former warehouses and brick sidewalks. The neighborhood, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is home to the gleaming Tennessee State Museum, the Nashville Farmers Market and the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. First Tennessee Park, home to the Nashville Sounds (a Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers), can also be found here. Germantown is home to some of the city’s most celebrated restaurants, including Tailor, Von Elrod’s (at right), Henrietta Red, The Optimist and Rolf & Daughters. visitmusiccity.com/explore-nashville/neighborhoods/Germantown
The Gulch
Between Music Row and downtown lies The Gulch, a bustling, LEED-certified community that dates to before the Civil War. It gets its name from the natural geographic depression of the 110-acre neighborhood; it was designed with connectivity, walkability and public transportation in mind, and there are numerous bike and walking paths here. Dining and nightlife options abound, such as Etch, The Iberian Pig, Bar Louie, Biscuit Love (at left) and L.A. Jackson, atop the Thompson Nashville, where you’ll find panoramic views of the city. Into public art? Pose for a selfie in front of Kelsey Montague’s “What Lifts You Wings,” and get inspired by Allison Johnson’s “Acoustic Skyline.” Then, head to Puttshack for a one-of-a-kind experience that merges mini golf, DJs and globally inspired food and curated cocktails. explorethegulch.com
Sylvan Park
A quiet, relaxing neighborhood Southwest of downtown, Sylvan Park is flanked by The Nations and the West End, and is known for its locally owned restaurants, bars and shops. For the sporting set, McCabe Golf Course (inside McCabe Park) can be found here, in addition to the Richland Creek Greenway. The greenway connects Sylvan Park to the nearby Cherokee Park, an area known for its architectural significance, and the White Bridge Road trailhead, home to Dutchman’s Curve and the Great Train Wreck of 1918. It’s also home to the Nashville Opera and the Nashville Ballet, the largest professional opera and ballet companies in Tennessee. When you get hungry, hearty dining options include M.L. Rose Craft Beer and Burgers, Pancho & Lefty’s Cantina and Streetcar Taps and Garden. Don’t leave without stopping at Bearded Iris. sylvanpark.org
GET TO KNOW
Hillsboro Village
Adjacent to both Vanderbilt and Belmont universities, an amble through Hillsboro Village makes for a delightful excursion. Breakfast lovers will want to make Pancake Pantry a frequent stop; pancakes are scratch-made, and more than a dozen varieties are available, making multiple trips necessary. When it’s time for lunch, don’t miss the Grilled Cheeserie, where the Pimento Mac & Chee delighted Guy Fieri on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.” Those looking for a healthier option will find The Urban Juicer, a perennial winner on the city’s “best of” lists. When it’s time to work off some calories, take a pleasing walk down 21st Avenue S., where you’ll find boutiques such as The Impeccable Pig, Molly Green and Dress Up Nashville. visitmusiccity.com/explore-nashville/ neighborhoods/belmont-hillsboro-village
GET TO KNOW
The Nations
A neighborhood full of pubs, coffee shops, spas and gyms, The Nations is just west of downtown Nashville and considered one of the fastest-growing enclaves in Music City. When hometown brewer Fat Bottom Brewing Company was looking to expand its operations in 2016, it moved to a 33,000-squarefoot facility here. Another popular craft beer spot, Southern Grist Brewing Co., grew its business in The Nations. In the mood for some sparring? Nashville’s boxing gym, Music City Boxing, will put your skills to the test. Dining options include scratch-made meals at Stay Golden, hot dog phenom Daddy’s Dogs and Bringle’s Smoking Oasis, from the founder of the famed Peg Leg Porker. No matter where you end up in this neighborhood, you’ll find the vibe to be casual, but the offerings top-notch. thenations615.com
AROUND THE CORNER
FRANKLIN
The ninth-largest community in Tennessee, Franklin wears many hats. Its walkable downtown is both quaint and modern, and history buffs can visit multiple Civil War sites. A stroll along Main Street not only introduces you to historic buildings but tells the story of the African American experience in the Civil War through the “Fuller Story” markers. A true family-friendly city, Franklin is home to Lucky Ladd Farms, the largest petting farm and family fun park in Tennessee; Bowie Nature Park, with 700 acres of forest, lakes and 17 miles of trails; and fun-filled festivals throughout the year. A short drive from downtown, Leiper’s Fork is a relaxed enclave full of galleries, boutiques, coffee shops and musicians of all genres. Did we mention Franklin is the most haunted city in Tennessee? Take a ghost tour, if you dare! visitfranklin.com
THE FACTORY AT FRANKLIN: A NEW ERA
The historic property gets a stylish new overhaul.
BY CARRIS CAMPBELL
When Holladay Properties acquired The Factory at Franklin in October of 2021, they knew they were not just purchasing a historic property but embracing a cherished icon with a rich industrial past. The Factory, home to four different manufacturers for over 62 years, is a local landmark attracting neighbors and tourists alike. While Allen Manufacturing Company (1929-1932), Dortch Stove Works (19331955), Magic Chef (1955-1961) and Jamison
The Factory at Franklin is a cornucopia of local boutiques, restaurants, bars and studios from some of the area's best makers. It's flourishing thanks to a refreshed look and feel.
Bedding Company (1961-1991) provided critical employment opportunities for the citizens of Williamson County during The Factory’s manufacturing heyday; it was the efforts of Calvin LeHew that saved The Factory from demolition. LeHew, a local businessman and preservationist, envisioned it as a unique destination that would preserve Franklin's history while embracing its future. Over the decades, The Factory blossomed into a diverse hub featuring local boutiques, studios and eateries, becoming integral to the fabric of Williamson County.
Recently, visitors to The Factory have noticed ongoing renovations amidst its vibrant atmosphere. The Nashville-based Stove Works—the first industrial power to operate at The Factory—received such strong support from the local community that they began hiring before the plant had been completed. Much like its early days when construction coexisted with operations, today's renovations reflect a commitment to enhancing the venue while keeping its doors open to the public. For more than two decades, all manner of
local flavors and favorites have found their place at The Factory, from gift shops, children’s boutiques and dance studios to fine dining, pottery painting and cooking institutions. When Calvin sold the Factory in 2012, more than 72 tenants had set up across the 12 buildings on campus. New ownership brought in iconic establishments, like Mojo’s Tacos, Honest Coffee Roasters and Franklin Juice Co., alongside cultural institutions like Studio Tenn, the local professional theater company that’s called The Factory home for nearly a decade.
After 20 years and a global pandemic, however, life at The Factory began to slow down. Visitors walked the halls reminiscing about
the days it had been full of vibrant shops and shoppers. Yet, even in quieter times, a core group of dedicated staff, businesses and patrons kept the spirit alive, fostering a sense of potential and resilience.
Holladay Properties recognized this potential, coming in with a mission of building off the groundwork past owners had laid while supporting long-term tenants and finding the right mix of shops, restaurants and community-focused businesses to give everyone their spotlight.
Local and tourists can enter The Factory and enjoy a bite of Middle Tennessee favorites in one stop. Whether you’re meeting friends for
happy hour, searching for the perfect after-dinner dessert or looking for a local restaurant to cater your special event, the variety of eateries is sure to please. The Skylight Bar, situated in the Grand Hall of The Factory, is an airy space providing specialty cocktails, local beers and an exquisite wine list. The Skylight hosts weekly live entertainment, trivia and special themes throughout the year. The Factory boasts an open campus, so shoppers can order a beverage from The Skylight and request a travel cup to continue sipping while they browse.
Looking ahead, The Factory at Franklin stands poised at the cusp of a new chapter—one that honors its past while embrac-
Clockwise from top left: A bartender pours a drink at the Skylight Bar; the Grand Hall; selections from Five Daughters Bakery, a family-owned and operated business (out of Franklin) that's a locals' favorite.
Above: Discover some of the finest barbecue around at Edley's, also family-owned and operated, which has been featured in Southern Living, USA Today and Garden & Gun. It's currently at 10 locations and growing strong.
ing innovation and community engagement.
As construction barriers give way to renewed opportunities, Franklin's beloved landmark continues to evolve, promising locals and visitors alike a place where history, culture and commerce converge in harmony.
Make plans to visit The Factory at Franklin located at 230 Franklin Road in Franklin, Tennessee, and enjoy a day of shopping and one of its many tasty dining establishments.
The Factory is open daily 7:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.
For additional information visit factoryatfranklin.com and follow them on social media at @thefactoryatfranklin.
LIST OF RESTAURANTS IN THE FACTORY:
HONEST COFFEE ROASTERS
• Bubble Love Tea
• Daddy’s Dogs
• Edley’s Bar-B-Que
• Etch
• Five Daughters Bakery
• Fork of the South General Store
• Franklin Juice Company
• Greys Fine Cheeses
• Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
THE WHITE ALLIGATOR MOJO'S TACOS
• Honest Coffee Roasters
• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
• Otaku Ramen
• Mojo’s Tacos
• Saffire
• Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria (Coming Soon)
• The White Alligator
• Two Hands
THE CAFÉ AND SHOP AT THISTLE FARMS
A social enterprise that provides a pathway to healing for women caught in cycles of sex trafficking, prostitution and addiction, The Café and Shop at Thistle Farms operates under four guiding principles: Hospitality, Healing, Story and Chado. The latter is translated from Japanese and means “the way of tea,” and the café’s is best known for its illuminating tea service that draws in tenets of love, harmony and tranquility. In celebration of this, the ceiling is adorned with teacups, which are arranged around a chandelier. In addition to its tea parties, the café serves up hearty favorites such as pot pies, soups and egg dishes, and doubles as an event space, accommodating parties from 10-120. Connected to the café is a shop that features candles, body products, essential oils, jewelry, apparel and household textiles, handcrafted by survivors.
5122 Charlotte Ave. Nashville, Tennessee 37209
615.953.6440
www.thecafeatthistlefarms.org
CATIO CAT CAFE AND LOUNGE
A vibrant cat lounge and adoption center, The Catio is a haven for rescue cats to spend their days socializing with guests during kitty time, cat yoga and other special events. This enrichment allows the cats’ personalities to emerge and is a valuable step towards finding them their forever homes. About 30 to 40 cats are on site at any one time, and all cats are spayed/neutered, fully vaccinated and at least 12 weeks old before they come to the Catio. The cat cafe runs on donations, and thanks to its generous supporters, recently doubled its space, moving into a new suite with a separate room dedicated to senior cats, shy cats and those with disabilities. It’s the perfect place for Nashville residents and tourists alike to relax, play and adopt—so grab a snack or beverage, then head inside for plenty of snuggles and eskimo kisses!
2416 Music Valley Drive, Suite 119
Nashville, Tennessee 37214
615.947.0404
www.thecationashville.com
BOURBON STEAK
From the brilliant mind of Chef Michael Mina comes this high-end steakhouse, known for its succulent and generous cuts of beef, a superb wine list and a panoramic view of Nashville’s skyline. Bourbon Steak takes pride in offering USDA Prime hormone-free beef that is hand-selected to ensure its exemplary quality. The in-house butcher individually prepares each and every steak, which is then slow poached in a warm bath of rendered beef tallow, clarified butter and a proprietary blend of aromatic herbs and spices. Steaks are then finished on a wood-burning grill of oak, hickory and cherrywood. Its rooftop cocktail lounge, Bourbon Sky, features artfully crafted cocktails and thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor spaces which expand past the building’s edge, making you feel like you’re floating on air.
201 8th Avenue South (atop the JW Marriott) Nashville, Tennessee 37203
629.208.8440
nashvillebourbonsteak.com
J. MICHAELS CLOTHIERS
J. Michaels Clothiers is not only Nashville’s bespoke, custom, and made-to-measure clothing specialist, but also one of the premier custom clothiers in America. Founded in 1989, our business grew originally by calling on accomplished men in their offices or homes and consulting them from the perspective of building a great visual reputation by using their clothing as an effective tool in nonverbal communication.
Now occupying a 100-year-old home on West End Avenue, we are fortunate to have long standing relationships with well-known luxury clothing brands like Oxxford Clothes, Hickey Freeman, Peter Millar, several private label custom makers (including a second-generation Italian Family bench-grade maker in New York), four custom shirtmakers and a dozen or so of the finest fabric houses and mills in the world including Loro Piana, Erminegildo Zegna, and Holland and Sherry. There are few places in the country that offer as broad a selection of fabrics or as extensive a choice in workmanship, ensuring that our clients always find what is best suited to their wants, needs, taste level, style preferences, and budget. Couple that with a friendly, highly trained, professional staff, and you are sure to feel welcome and at home in this sophisticated, yet relaxed, environment replete with a well-stocked bar.
3305 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203
615.321.0686 www.jmichaelsclothiers.com
HAYMAKERS & CO.
Located at West End Avenue & Acklen Park in a renovated bungalow, Haymakers & Co. is the consummate men’s one-stop retail experience for men’s tailored and casual clothing, accessories, and provisions. Founded in 2014 as the offspring of J. Michaels Clothiers, Haymakers has been named one of the South’s Best Shops by Garden and Gun and Southern Living, offering a well-curated, diverse assortment of upscale brands including LBM 1911, Alan Paine, Ring Jacket, Stenstroms, Maurizio Baldassari, Hickey Freeman, Peter Millar, Jack Victor Private Label, Trussini, Faherty, Gran Sasso, Brax, Hiltl, Ballin, Monfrere, Citizens of Humanity and 100 Hands. Shoes from Alden, G. Brown, and Alan Payne. Belts and leathergoods from Martin Dingman, W. Kleinberg and Torino. And, when you really need or want to step up your game, we offer the finest custom-made garments measured and fitted by the skilled hands of highly trained people who know what they’re doing. Couple that with a knowledgeable yet easy going staff who is also here to serve you drinks on the house, and we think you’ll find Haymakers and Co. to be a true knockout punch. We look forward to welcoming you as our guest.
3307 West End Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203
615.810.9442
www.HaymakersandcoNashville.com
Madame Tussauds is “The World’s Greatest Wax Museum.” Our attraction allows guest to meet their favorite A-List celebrities through an interactive experience that reflects the unique spirit of “Music City.” The incredible artistry and craftsmanship of our wax figures, celebrity endorsement, and the latest music culture trends make Madame Tussauds Nashville a must-see destination.
615.485.4867
madametussauds.com/Nashville
A BOOK
PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER Kathy Fox
EDITORIAL & DESIGN
EDITOR Jennifer McKee
ART DIRECTOR Hadley Kincaid
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Carris Campbell, Mary Skinner
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Aimee Serafin
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Christopher Hughes, Sean Pavone, Nathan Zucker
MCC MAGAZINES, LLC
PRESIDENT Tina Battock
VICE PRESIDENT Scott Ferguson
DIRECTOR OF MANUFACTURING & PRODUCTION Sherry Brown
ACCOUNTING MANAGER Veronica Brooks
CIRCULATION BUSINESS MANAGER Michelle Rowe
MORRIS COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY, LLC
CHAIRMAN William S. Morris III
CEO Craig S. Mitchell
Portal to History
The only full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon in the world, Nashville’s ornate version was built in 1897 for Tennessee’s Centennial Exposition to honor Nashville as the “Athens of the South.” It serves as a model of classical architecture, full of columns, friezes and colonnades; inside stands Nashville sculptor Alan LeQuire’s awe-inspiring 42-foot-tall sculpture of Athena.
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