Travel Like a Local: The Nations of Nashville
Words by Aaron Joseph
Considered to be one of the fastest growing neighborhoods in the Nashville area, The Nations has made quite a name for itself over the past few years, and it’s no surprise as to why. This trendy, walkable, and lively neighborhood has just about everything that locals and tourists alike could ask for—cozy local coffee shops, a wide showcase of some of Nashville’s best food, unique shopping options with fantastic missions, and a bar and brewery scene to rival some of Nashville’s bigger and busier neighborhoods. If you’re looking for an easily navigable neighborhood that could fill several days’ worth of activities, look no further than The Nations.
Located less than 15 minutes from the heart of Music City, The Nations should be on every tourist’s radar as they plan their trip. This quaint and quirky area gives a modern feel to the heart of the American small town vibe it’s going for. Here is my guide on how to make the most of this nifty Nashvillian neighborhood.
Eat
Start your morning off with one of Nashville’s hidden gems, Stay Golden. Whether you’re in the mood for a cup of craft coffee, a delicious handmade cheddar biscuit, or a full-on big breakfast to satisfy the hungriest of customers, this diner is your stop. Be sure to check out their brunch menu on Saturday and Sunday mornings! Alternatively, one of Nashville’s most iconic coffee franchises, Frothy Monkey, also has its biggest location in The Nations and is definitely worth a visit.
For lunch, I have two options for you, and you can’t go wrong with either. Bare Bones gives a local butcher feel with a trendy industrial vibe and sells responsibly sourced meats from Tennessee farms. These guys don’t cut corners with their cuts of meat. And their sandwiches will knock your cowboy boots off—you seriously have to try the Cuban; we can’t stress that enough. If you’re missing your hometown’s corner store, however, try 51st Deli. This deli-style sandwich and custom taco joint is also a one-stop-shop tourist pick-me-up, complete with a coffee and juice bar for that afternoon lull.
Now let’s dive into our dinner options. If pizza is what you’re in the mood for, you have no shortage of options here. For a delicious Neapolitan-style pie with a nice selection of cocktails, Nicky’s Coal Fired has you covered. If you’re craving more of a beautifully messy, big-sliced, bar-style pizza, Midnight Oil is your stop—order the Sweet Heat.
But if you just had pizza last night and are looking for something else to chow down on, fear not! Burgers and bourbon can be found in excess at Burger + Grain, with mouth-watering dishes prepared in an open kitchen concept that promises an immersive culinary experience like you’ve never had before. Check them out every other Tuesday for a bourbon tasting as well! If barbecue is on your mind, head on over to Bringle’s Smoking Oasis. This is the highly anticipated second restaurant by Nashville’s own Carey Bringle and serves some of the city’s best smoked brisket and pulled pork. Here you’ll also find a ton of outdoor space and games to make the most out of a beautiful afternoon or evening, and it’s a great spot to watch your favorite sports when they’re playing!
Looking to get a beer in between meals? The Nations has several exceptional breweries to choose from. Southern Grist, Fat Bottom, Bassline Brewing Company, and the aforementioned Rock’N Dough will satisfy your craft beer cravings. All of these breweries have outdoor seating for one to enjoy the beautiful outdoors while sipping their locally inspired beverage.
Play
The Nations doesn’t just specialize in the food and drinks arena, however. You will find a wealth of exclusive experiences just waiting to be had here.
Have the Winter Olympics ever awakened the curler in you, only for you to realize you don’t have a way to channel that sweeping energy? Not anymore. Tee Line is an entertainment venue that houses Nashville’s first, and only, curling sheets—or curling lanes, if you aren’t familiar with the sport’s terminology. They provide all of the equipment necessary and welcome beginners and seasoned curlers alike. Come enjoy this one of a kind activity and grab some food and drinks afterwards at their sports bar!
For the holiday shoppers out there, we suggest the admirable and remarkable shop ABLE. Not only do they have stylish and functional fits at a reasonable price, their mission is what impresses us the most. This store endeavors to provide women with high-quality and meaningful careers with living wages and safe work conditions, not only in their home office of Nashville but also around the world, as they enter in partnerships with manufacturers that align with their values.
If consignment shops are your thing, The Nations is home to the only one you’ll ever want to visit again: Ensemble Consignment Boutique. Complete with the friendliest staff and an ever-evolving collection of clothing, this shop promises to provide you with personality pieces that are as unique and dynamic as you are, ensuring a shopping experience that's both personal and unforgettable. The staff will gladly help customers come up with fun ways to finish their look through style or tailoring suggestions.
While you’re here, don’t forget to simply look up and see one of Nashville’s most iconic—and certainly its biggest—murals. Painted on an abandoned silo by Australian artist Guido van Helten this mural depicting 91-year-old Nashville native Lee “LD” Estes is 15 stories tall and embodies the heart and soul of this neighborhood. It symbolizes this area’s working class roots and encourages newcomers to respect these roots. A visit to this neighborhood is worth it just to witness this work of art.