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City Cast Nashville

Margaret Kingsbury

How well do you know Nashville’s street names? Take this mini crossword to see. And 

Toby Rose

For our November installment of Nashville Nights, writer Toby Rose gives her top picks of restaurants and shows for exploring the most alluring angles of the city.

 is leading the charge of new restaurants designed to make patrons feel hot. The East Nashville Italian eatery already has a dedicated following for its hi-fi setup and rotating cast of DJs. But the unsung hero here is the lighting. It’s so subdued, you don’t even need a filter for your selfies. The dishes are equally stunning — Sicilian crudo, handmade gnocchi, natural wines. Despite Cala Cala’s minimalist tone, make sure to order like a maximalist.

 on Nov. 7 at the Brooklyn Bowl. The Aussie alt-folk artist performs intimate, emotionally raw sets. Unpretentious and self-aware, she’s the kind of musician who continually closes her eyes while singing. Get ready to feel vulnerable.

 is my lucky spot. I always have flowing conversations here because good food makes people come 

. Some crowd faves are the Crab Rangoons, Dan Dan Noodles, and Blink 182na Roll. But you can’t go wrong with a single item on the menu.

From there, you’re a short drive away from 

, where you can explore Japanese mythology through Tokyo-based dance company, 

, on Nov. 14 and 15. Then, if you’re feeling inspired, head to 

, the mother-daughter-owned event space in East Nashville. Unlike other massive, two-story dance clubs, Hot Ticket is the size of a two-car garage. It’s like stumbling upon a house party you won’t want to leave.

If you’re looking for sheer volume, saxophonist 

 doesn’t merely perform. He excavates. His jazz is a thick fog of twin drum kits, choral arrangements, and heavy basslines. North African vocalist 

 will join him at City Winery on Nov. 17th.

 is in a dreamy Chestnut Hill alcove. The cocktails and small bites focus on Indian spices and each seat places you in close candlelit proximity to your neighbor. Every corner has been rounded out, giving you the comforting sensation of drinking inside a luxury nest, looking out at the beautiful people of Nashville. Oh, what a view.

🍽️ New restaurants we love

Enjoy a great Nashville night out with our picks for dinner and a show in November.

3 Ideas for the Perfect Nashville Night in November 2026

Nashville Nights: Dinner and a Show Picks for November 2026

The latest on the best and newest restaurants and bars in Nashville. We'll help you find where to eat, drink, and socialize.

Nashville Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Margaret Littman

When I travel to other cities, I always pop into their co-op grocery stores. (My favorite this summer was the 

, where I bought a custom-made grilled cheese and had a picnic on the grass in front of the New Hampshire state capitol building.)

And then I come home and ask, “Why doesn’t Nashville have a co-op yet?” I’ve been a member of the 

 for the Nashville Scene in 2021. So, I asked Tera Ashley, president of the Nashville Food Co-op, for an update.

First things first, a co-op is a community-owned store. It’s not a charitable organization; the store's profits are reinvested in the store and/or paid to members as a dividend. In a co-op grocery store, Ashley says, about 23% of sales are from local goods, as compared with about 2% in a conventional store. That keeps more money in locals' pockets.

The Nashville Food Co-op just hired its first full-time employee (Ashley and other board members are volunteers). That should help the organization increase awareness, apply for grants, and look for a physical spot to open. You don’t need a reminder that Nashville area rents are high, and it can be 

challenging for small businesses to find real estate

. But Ashley is confident the right space — maybe a non-traditional one — is out there.

Even without a brick-and-mortar store, the Co-op has lots of ways it’s 

 (with pickup spots in several areas around town), cooking classes, and farm tours. The next cooking class will be on Chinese cuisine (

 so you’ll get registration info when available).

🍦 Plus, there are discounts available for meat and produce CSAs, and Ashley says ice cream and brewery discounts are in the works. The organization is looking at launching a mobile store that would allow folks to pick up vegetables and other groceries at schools and places they already visit.

 (it can be paid in installments), and that helps the organization build its next phase. “Membership is really for people who can dream,” Ashley says.

Nashville still doesn’t have a co-op grocery store. Here’s an update on the Nashville Food Co-op, plus its farm boxes and $250 member-owner perks.

Nashville Food Co-op Update: When Will It Open a Grocery Store?

What’s the Deal With the Nashville Food Co-op?

Keep It Local

Sign up for Keep It Local from City Cast Nashville

Subscribe to City Cast Nashville's newest newsletter Keep It Local about shopping small

The holiday shopping season is about to kick into high gear. Before the frenzy, here are four weekend ideas to support locals, find some gems, and have some fun.

Earlier this year, Levy’s announced that the 171-year-old clothing store plans to close its doors. This week, they started their store-closing sale. It’s a chance to find rare deals on luxury suits and dresses, and even some store fixtures.

Green Hills-based Levy’s is continuing to offer services, including its in-house tailor shop, through Dec. 5.

 is turning its yard into a must-shop market. Show up between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (

) to dig through a private wardrobe sale, find treasures from Alison Mosshart’s 

Admission is $10 at the door, and all proceeds go to the 

This market highlights the work of local LGBTQ+ and ally artisans and crafters. Head to 

If you can’t make it in person on Saturday, Nov. 7, the vendors will have 

online booths open through the end of January

 for the Crafty Bastards Fall Market this Saturday, Nov. 7 and Sunday, Nov. 8. Admission is free, parking is $3, and the aisles are filled with handmade arts and crafts by local artisans.

, will be there, as well as food trucks and the Crafty Bastards Cocktail Bar.

Get a head start on holiday shopping in Nashville with local makers markets, vintage ornaments, and deals at Levy’s 171-year-old clothing store.

Levy’s Closing Sale, Crafty Bastards, and More Nashville Shopping

Four Sales in Nashville To Check Out This Weekend

While we still have several weeks until Thanksgiving, if you’re not planning to cook everything yourself, now’s the time to preorder your Turkey Day feast. Here are nine Nashville restaurants offering Thanksgiving dinner preorders.

This classic Thanksgiving meal includes slow-roasted turkey with giblet gravy, baked ham, corn pudding, and caramel pumpkin pie, with add-ons like fried chicken and sweet tea. Prices start at $75.

If you’re craving a Southern Thanksgiving, Loveless is the way to go. Their $139.99 meal pack includes plenty of turkey, the cafe’s world-famous biscuits and preserves, plus your choice of three sides (I recommend the hashbrown casserole).

Frankies can feed up to 12 people, with prices starting at $225. The Italian restaurant’s Thanksgiving meal has herb butter roasted turkey breast, sourdough dressing with confit turkey thighs, and roasted Brussels sprouts. You can also add tiramisu!

Customize your Thanksgiving feast at Shotgun Willie’s with its Michelin-recognized brisket, smoked turkey, jalapeno cheddar cornbread muffins, pecan pie bars, and more. A full holiday meal for four costs $135, or you can just order your favorites.

For a unique, Cajun-style meal, The Gumbo Bros has you covered with your choice of chicken and sausage or seafood gumbo, as well as a Cajun turkey and cranberry sauce. Cost varies based on the dish.

If you’re looking for a smaller meal, Aba is offering a Thanksgiving dinner for two. For $119.95, you get pumpkin hummus with house bread, truffle baked orzo, beef tenderloin kebab, and more. You can also add on a whole pumpkin chiffon pie.

Adele’s also offers preorders for two at $120, or you can put in multiple orders for larger groups. The restaurant has unique takes on classics, like brown-butter smashed potatoes and a white chocolate panna cotta for dessert.

If you’d rather handle the turkey yourself (or you’re not a fan), check out Ocean Prime’s Everything but the Turkey option. For $160, drool over bacon creamed spinach, jalapeño potato au gratin, and its famous five-layer carrot cake.

Chef’s Market has heaps of options for your Thanksgiving meal, whether you want to preorder the entire dinner or just an entree and select sides. Try its smoked gouda mac n’ cheese, candied bacon-wrapped figs, and maple mustard-glazed ham. Prices vary.

Stock up on all your favorite sides while supporting a nonprofit by ordering from The Nashville Food Project. They’ve got Southern macaroni and cheese, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, and a lot more. Every order helps ensure that families across Nashville have access to nourishing food this holiday season.

🥧 The Best Pies in Nashville

If you're skipping the kitchen this Turkey Day, check out these Nashville restaurants with Thanksgiving preorders

Don't Want To Cook for Thanksgiving? Preorder Your Meal at These Nashville Restaurants

Where To Preorder Your Thanksgiving Dinner in Nashville

Marie Cecile Anderson

  Rachel Iacovone

It’s hard to believe there’s only two months left of 2026. Close out the year with a bang with 

 wants Nashville to look up this month, with heaps of 

 at their newly renovated space. Take in views from their telescopes on select nights, or attend a public star party. Dyer is also hosting live music from the 

 about how astronomy can change the way we see the world. Events vary in cost from free to $30+, and spots tend to fill up fast.

 festival will feature music, local Latine food vendors, and craft-making. While Cheekwood’s on-site parking is full during the event, they’re 

. The Nashville City Cemetery is also hosting 

its inaugural Día de los Muertos celebration

 on Nov. 1 with “bright marigolds, beautiful altars, and heartfelt remembrance.” Mexican and Latin American eateries like 

 can help your food-based commemorations over the weekend. Remember: The holiday is much more than so-called “candy skulls,” a fact particularly exemplified at 

 that will be honoring All Souls and All Saints Days.

🦃 Where To Gobble Down Dinner, Without the Dishes

If you’re not thawing your own turkey for days this year, plenty of Nashville eateries are open on Thanksgiving. If you still want to feel like you’re eating in someone’s home, 

 are all open, too. Lots of Italian spots are also working Turkey Day — from 

. Wherever you go, tip your servers well!

There’s plenty of foodie fun in Nashville this month beyond Thanksgiving.

 game with Outdoor Nashville on Nov. 6 at Bells Bend Park.

Watch a heated battle between some of Nashville’s top chefs at 

 on Nov. 12 (with unlimited bites from 20 local restaurants).

James Beard Foundation’s Taste America: Nashville

 event on Nov. 19, with heaps of food stations celebrating our culinary community. We’re a sponsor, so come say hi!

Give back by volunteering at local food banks, prepping meals, and delivering food boxes. Search the 

 for volunteer opportunities and sort by “Food Insecurity.”

🥾 Hiking Trails Perfect for Digesting Turkey

Need a reason to get outside before the turkey hits the table? Middle Tennessee has hiking trails for all ages, from a short nature walk with kiddos to a full day adventure.

: The lake trail is perfect for the whole family, because you can turn around at any time. This scenic loop is about 3 miles with plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, especially wild turkeys!

: With your dog on a leash, the 2-mile Henry Hollow Loop Trail may be the best hike to go solo with your best furry friend.

: The Mossy Ridge Trail is great for gossip … meaning you won’t be huffing and puffing too much on this moderate 4.5 mile loop, so get out there and share a few family secrets.

: The free museum explores the ancient Native American earthworks, and short trails along the Duck and Little Duck rivers offer a chance to stretch your legs and reflect on what you're thankful for. It’s great for the whole family!

More November Activities

There's only two more months in the year! Here are the best things to do this November in Nashville

The Best Things To Do in Nashville in November 2026

Your Guide to Nashville in November 2026

Find the best of everything that Nashville has to offer.

Nashville’s Best

Nashville's Best

I first went to Columbia more than a decade ago to visit the 

. A real estate agent who sold a wood cabin down the street from me in Inglewood claimed President James K. Polk lived in it (it was later moved to this location). There is zero evidence that's true (believe me, I've looked). The only surviving residence from President Polk, besides the White House, is in Columbia. It features artifacts from the 11th president, including furniture and White House china. This house sits downtown, a block from Public Square, so it’s an easy educational stop before shopping or eating.

Columbia's charming central Public Square centers around the Maury County Courthouse. My favorite day to head to Columbia is 

, the first Friday of the month, when shops stay open late and streets close so you can explore shops, food trucks, live music, and other entertainment.

 before they opened closer to me in Inglewood and 

. There are coffee shops, breweries, and 

, a pipe-making factory where you can watch pipes being made, pick one to smoke, and hang out with a craft beer. The 

Just a few minutes from downtown is the Columbia Arts District, across from the historic railroad depot, Union Station. Row & Co. is an incubator for small businesses, including a yarn store, 

 makes canvas and leather goods and sells them from a mercantile/coffee shop with outdoor seating in the back of Row & Co.

, a classic red sauce Italian restaurant. Unfortunately, I have yet to eat there, because whenever I go to Columbia I have to go to 

. It used to be a tiny shoebox in Row & Co. but recently moved across the street to a bigger space, still with the community vibe that owner George Kougias cultivated.

, the Italian spot that used to be in Hillsboro Village. I’m happy to report that the family has a 

. Toss a cooler in your trunk, so you can bring home fresh pasta or pasta-based soups, and other meals, plus treats from the baked goods case, including cannoli, seven-layer rainbow cookies, and black-and-white cookies.

Just south of Nashville, the city of Columbia has a lively downtown square, local delis, Italian bakeries, and First Friday street parties.


Things To Do in Columbia, Tennessee

How To Have a Good Hang in Columbia 

, Tennessee, for years. The town south of Nashville (south of Franklin and Spring Hill) has long had a thriving downtown square and a cool arts district. Right now, tons of small businesses have their doors open and their shingles out. A friend and I took a day trip so I could show her around; now I’m sharing my favorites with you.

We really went to Columbia because my friend wanted to check out this new yarn store. I don’t knit (too much counting!), but even I was gobsmacked by Megan Butler’s collection of organic and natural fibers. She has packed a lot into a tiny shop in 

, an assemblage of small (literal and figurative) businesses in the Columbia Arts District.

This two-story shop off the Public Square has been a fixture in Columbia since 1955. It’s known for its 

. They also stock outdoor gear, shoes, and clothing. Think of it as Columbia’s version of 

Another long-time business on the Square, Accents and Antiques has two floors of booths from antique, vintage, and retro goods vendors. I found some vintage buttons for a coat I'm sewing, while my friend found a wood-and-brass butter charm she's going to turn into a piece of furniture.

Yes, Bloomstall sells fresh flowers and plants, including air plants and unusually shaped houseplants that require soil. If you are looking for some green to have at home over the winter, this is a good stop. The pretty pink shelves also hold fun gifts, including jewelry and home decor.

Take a day trip from Nashville to Columbia, Tennessee, for a new yarn shop, vintage finds on the Public Square, and houseplants.


4 Shopping Gems Worth the Drive to Columbia

Hungry? Nashville has so many excellent new restaurants and bars opening every month. Here are our favorites!

Head to Nashville Yards for Puesto’s fresh takes on Mexico City cuisine. It’s the family-owned restaurant’s first location outside California. They’re offering half-off tacos on Tuesday, with a daily happy hour.

This new speakeasy and cocktail bar inside Hooky at Nashville Yards opens tomorrow, Oct. 29. Enjoy 

 inspired by Music City’s golden age of recording sessions, like the Fool’s Gold, a tribute to Elvis’ favorite sandwich, and the Slow Fade, a smoke-filled Manhattan.

Downtown Nashville also has a new taqueria. It’s the third Nashville concept from Chicago-based Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants, which previously opened Aba and Sushi-san. Expect fresh handmade tortillas and ice-cold cervezas.

Season one winner of Gordon Ramsay’s “MasterChef,” Whitney Miller, opened her first cookie shop in Franklin, and now she’s coming to downtown Nashville inside 

. Enjoy fresh-baked cookies, soft serve, and coffee.

 have opened this cocktail and wine bar right across the street and next to their fashion house, 

, in Chestnut Hill. With only 15 tables and unique, magical decor, it makes for an intimate and atmospheric spot for late nights.

At long last, the former Donut Distillery’s transformation into a dance club is complete. Located just north of East Nashville’s popular Five Points neighborhood, the club serves light bites and cocktails, and lots of fun. Read more about why the mom-daughter team 

This new, hip listening bar in East Nashville offers wine, cocktails, and Italian island fare. The chefs behind Present Tense and Xiao Bao have teamed up on the new concept.

This Korean comfort food restaurant recently opened on Eastland Avenue near Jenni’s and Graze. Feast on dumplings, bibimbap, and seolleongtang.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at this Italian gelato shop at River North, close to what we like to call the Secret Shake Shack. Part of a franchise, it’s open every day of the week and offers a variety of Italian treats.

This new Chicago-style market and deli on Stewarts Ferry Pike aims to be a neighborhood family hangout. A portion of the 

, a nonprofit that helps youth impacted by the justice system learn vocational skills.

This farmhouse-inspired new restaurant is bringing modern Southern cuisine to Whites Creek. Be sure to try their signature Big Oak Burger and chicken and waffles.

Wedgewood-Houston’s new corner store and sandwich shop hopes to become a neighborhood hangout spot. Grab a 

 and hit up their patio now that the weather’s nice. It’s 

Wedgewood-Houston is also getting a new coffee shop. Originally launched in Clarksville, Asulon Collective aims to cultivate connection through craft coffee. In addition to the café, Asulon will also have mobile coffee bars.

This 16-seat French bistro run by the folks behind East Nashville’s 

 opens in Donelson on Monday, Sept. 28. Some of the recipes come from 

co-owner Philippine Maillard’s grandmother

. The menu includes crepes, omelets, and quiche, with plenty of gluten-free and vegan dishes.

Green Hills’ latest upscale restaurant serves house-made pasta, pizza, and Italian entrees like chicken parmigiana and bistecca. The decor is bright with wallpaper that looks straight out of a fairy tale.

I missed this family-owned South Nashville coffee shop over by ThriftSmart when it opened in July. The peaceful decor features cream walls and lots of greenery, while pastries, lunch bowls, and smoothies are served alongside plenty of coffee options.

Florida-based Nigel’s Bananas recently opened its first Tennessee location in Hillsboro Village. Snag chocolate-dipped bananas with elaborate toppings. Gluten-free and vegan options are available.

Nashville’s newest boba tea place has found a home in The Nations. This chain also serves sweet treats and popcorn chicken.

Downtown Nashville has landed this popular taco chain, which has its 

 on Friday, Sept. 25. The celebration will have live music, and the first 100 people will receive a free order of birria tacos.

Centennial Park now has an on-site restaurant! The 

 and includes charcuterie boards, pimento sandwiches, and soft-serve ice cream. Personally, I’m excited to see several gluten-free and vegan options on the menu. Proceeds from the nonprofit cafe will benefit the Centennial Park Conservancy.

This Tennessee Brewery has opened a second Nashville location in the former home of Southern Grist, right by Nicky’s Coal-Fired in The Nations. Expect green velvet lounge chairs, horror-themed art, and taproom exclusives.

East Nashville has landed another LGBTQ+ bar! Girlcrush is owned by the twin sisters behind the 

, and the bar will host local queer musicians plus other community events. Check out their 

This New York City favorite has opened inside East Nashville’s Lakeside Lounge, serving delicious Ukrainian food. It’s open daily, and 

 includes pierogi, kielbasa, latkes, and much more.

We’ve got another contender for best hot chicken in Nashville. Chef and owner Chen Chen was born in China, raised in Nashville, but later moved to Toronto, where he first opened this restaurant. Now he’s returned to Nashville. His hot chicken infuses Asian flavors with the Nashville culinary tradition.

Grab yourself some chicken katsu and spicy poke bowls at this Antioch Hawaiian barbecue joint, which is part of a chain that launched in O‘ahu in 1952. This is its first Tennessee location.

Looking for something more upscale? Serrato’s has expanded from Williamson County to its first Nashville location in One Bellevue Place. You’ll find hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine selection.

Nashville’s first Colombian coffee shop is now open in Midtown! In addition to coffee choices like golden honey and cardamom rose lattes, you’ll find Latin-inspired brunch options and Colombian sweet treats. It’s a beautiful, inviting space.

 has opened this exclusive, 14-seat European-inspired spot in the Neuhoff District. It’s only open three days a week, Tuesday through Thursday, with a menu centered on seafood specialties like a squid-ink crepe and tuna belly. Cauponor also has an extensive wine list.

Hungry? These are the best new restaurants and bars in Nashville to check out this year.

Check Out These New Nashville Restaurants and Bars in October 2026

Nashville's Best New Restaurants and Bars

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City Cast Nashville Mini Crossword

Margaret Kingsbury

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