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.
Bar Cala Cala 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.
Follow your vibey dinner by seeing Julia Jacklin 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.
Punk Wok is my lucky spot. I always have flowing conversations here because good food makes people come alive. 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 OZ Arts, where you can explore Japanese mythology through Tokyo-based dance company, KEDAGORO, on Nov. 14 and 15. Then, if you’re feeling inspired, head to Hot Ticket, 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 Kamasi Washington doesn’t merely perform. He excavates. His jazz is a thick fog of twin drum kits, choral arrangements, and heavy basslines. North African vocalist Ami Taf Ra will join him at City Winery on Nov. 17th.
Afterwards, you’ll want to chill. bar ena 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.
