For our October installment of Nashville Nights, writer Toby Rose gives her top picks of restaurants and shows for exploring both the silly and gothic sides of Halloween.
Audrey Hobert incorporates costumes and stilts into her bubblegum pop set, which she’s bringing to the Ryman tomorrow night, Oct. 6. Her shows land in that sweet spot between satire and spectacle, and I heard from a reputable source that Hobert has no opener. She also plays her hit “Sue Me” twice — once so fans can record it on their phones, and again to fully savor — creating a cosmic feminine scene.
Before the show, stop at Antoinette’s Wine + Provisions in Sylvan Park, where bubbly groups of girlypops cluster inside a 1930’s house, giving the restaurant a slumber party vibe. Their crab claws are drenched in a perfectly high proportion of butter. Order those twice — once to capture on your phone, and again to fully savor.
When I took my son to see Jeff Kinney, I surprisingly had as much fun as he did. The bestselling “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” author’s live show is a fast-paced combination of music and trivia that caters to Gen Alpha’s jumpy little attention spans. Kinney’s currently touring for his latest book, and you’ll be a household hero if you snag tickets to see him at Vanderbilt on Saturday, Oct. 24.
Head to Hattori Nori for dinner, because you won’t have to bug your kids about using their utensils in a hand roll restaurant. I ordered The Signature Set — a meticulously seasoned collection of four fresh rolls. While I was gabbing away, I let a roll sit for too long … and the chef insisted on replacing it with a new one. I’ve never felt so cared for in a restaurant!
Another spot that puts serious care into their food is Lindo Mexico in Madison, often called Lindo’s by locals. The family-owned Mexican restaurant is bright and cozy, packed with charm and flavor. I tried a few of the chorizo, shrimp, and asada tacos — which come with pico and fresh radishes — and can’t wait to return.
Nashville Nightmare, open now through Nov. 13, is the biggest thrill in town. The haunted house is an entertaining litmus test to see how you fare under pressure. Would you crumble around zombies, or stay the course? Afterwards, walk over to JOB Billiards Club for a nightcap. Even if you’re not a pool shark, perch on the wooden bleachers to experience the best people-watching in town.
