Nashville's Best New Restaurants and Bars

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

April 2026

Salemtown has a new grocery store! This small, charming grocer also serves breakfast and lunch. Grab an espresso, pastry, or sandwich, and bring your pup along for some treats. In the future, Basket Case plans to include a wine and beer bar.

In celebration of its fifth anniversary, Maíz de la Vida chef Julio Hernandez is returning to the restaurant’s tortilla shop roots with Fonda Fina, which opens today, April 29. The 12-seat restaurant will be open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., serving tacos, burritos, flautas, and more.

This Austin staple has opened its first Nashville location inside Dream Nashville, in Printer’s Alley. This dog-friendly coffee shop doesn’t just serve coffee; you’ll find heaps of other beverages in addition to breakfast tacos on its menu.

Earls has restaurants across the U.S. and Canada, and its first Nashville location is inside The Pinnacle. Earls dubs itself as “casually sophisticated,” and its international menu includes Szechuan shrimp and pork dumplings, spicy Calabrian pasta, and black truffle butter steak.

This nationally acclaimed seafood restaurant recently opened in Nashville Yards. It’s best known for its towering seafood towers and steaks. There’s also a raw bar and sushi. It’s open for lunch during the week and dinner every night.

Salt Ranch is a new Dickerson Road boutique hotel that’s also home to a cozy bar in the hotel’s restored early 1800s main house. With hot weather right around the corner, you might want to sign up for the hotel’s swim club.

For more swimming fun, head over to W Nashville’s new rooftop poolside bar, Glowbird, under the direction of celebrity chef José Andrés. Find frozen cocktails, lobster rolls, and a great view.

Butterfly is chef José Andrés’s third concept at W Nashville (Zaytinya opened in February). This rooftop Mexican restaurant is inspired by the monarch butterfly’s annual migration across borders. Menu items include tacos and ceviches.

The team behind Edley’s Bar-B-Que has opened this taco restaurant in Sylvan Park, with a second location in Melrose opening in May. Pick a protein and style, then dress that taco up with guac or queso. Don’t forget the margarita. There’s a nice patio perfect for the spring.

This fancy, tavern-style spot also recently opened in Sylvan Park, from James Beard-recognized chef Robbie Wilson (who opened SuperNormal last year) and Emily Perry Wilson. Find hearth-fired meals like Appalachian trout, striploin, and swordfish, a selection of cocktails, and a raw bar.

Bellevue’s newest tavern has opened in Corner Pub’s former home. The family-owned bar hopes to become a neighborhood staple and serves classic fare like wings and burgers, as well as Southern-style meat-and-three options.

March 2026

This open-air East Nashville gathering spot recently opened and has heaps of new restaurants and food trucks: QBOP! Korean BBQ, Katrin Taqueria, The Pepper Pott, Pizza Lolo, Sarabhas Creamery, Fortunate Sun, Birdie’s, and Retrograde Coffee. It’s going to be the place to hang out in this nice weather!

The popular East Nashville restaurant Soy Cubano just opened a location on the west side in The Nations! For now, its new location is only open for breakfast and lunch. Find Cuban coffee, sandwiches, and snacks.

Meanwhile, The Nations’ pizzeria Midnight Oil has opened a second location in Donelson. It’s a great place to grab a beer or cocktail with a slice of pizza and watch a game, or meet up with friends.

My favorite ice cream truck now has a storefront inside the Nashville Farmers’ Market, where they also hold ice cream-making classes. Their ice cream is SO delicious! Make sure to grab some next time you’re at the market.

Indigo Road Hospitality Group, based in Charleston, is opening its third Nashville restaurant in Germantown. Indaco is an Italian restaurant open for dinner nightly, and for brunch on the weekends. The menu includes artichoke pasta, braised rabbit, and lobster tortellini.

Coa is a Tulum-inspired rooftop bar and restaurant located on the Canopy by Hilton rooftop in The Gulch. Expect a modern take on Mexican cuisine, with the city’s largest agave menu. It has both indoor and outdoor eating spaces, with three terraces and an agave garden.

This locally owned smashburger restaurant opened its fourth location in The Gulch yesterday. They serve unique takes on smashburgers, from the Skippy Thai Yay to the Bleus Brothers, and the entire restaurant is covered in newspapers, magazines, and memorabilia from the ‘80s and ‘90s. It’s one of my favorite smashburger places in town.

Present Tense has reopened in a new, more intimate Wedgewood-Houston location. Chef Ryan Costanza has scaled down the restaurant from 120 to 40 seats, and it now shares a building with the nightclub Flamingo. The new menu features about a dozen items that blend Japanese, French, and Italian cuisines.

February 2026

This farmers market favorite now has a brick-and-mortar store in 12 South. While the Mexico City-inspired menu focuses on a wide variety of tacos, Ofelia’s also serves street corn, dulce de leche, and margaritas.

Wedgewood-Houston’s Deir Café, run by a Nashville-born Palestinian doctor, has opened a second location in Antioch, which they’re saying is the biggest café in Nashville! Deir blends “the soul of Palestine with the creativity of Nashville.” Make sure to try the shawarma.

Under the direction of celebrity chef José Andrés, Zaytinya’s menu is inspired by Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese cuisines, with small plates alongside larger dishes. It’s located inside W Nashville. The José Andrés Group plans to also open Bar Mar in W Nashville soon.

Locally owned meal prep and catering company Prepped Palate recently soft opened its grab-and-go storefront in Wedgewood-Houston. Expect healthy and delicious quick lunches.

Heirloom Hospitality has brought this fine dining steakhouse to Nashville Yards, within the Grand Hyatt. Open for dinner seven nights a week, the menu also includes seafood and a raw bar.

This Music Row coffee shop has opened a second location in Brentwood, right across the street from REI. It’s open every day from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Grab some coffee and avocado toast.

Radish has several locations across Nashville and Franklin, and now East Nashville can enjoy its signature salads and grain bowls. It’s located near Butcher & Bee.

JINYA is a large ramen chain, with more than 60 locations across the nation. Its Tennessee debut is in downtown Nashville, where customers can expect slow-simmered broth, sushi, rice bowls, craft beers, and cocktails.

This popular bagel chain is opening its first Tennessee storefront in The Gulch tomorrow, Feb. 27. They’ll be serving a limited-edition Nashville HOT schmear for the grand opening.

This Austin-based burger joint also has its grand opening tomorrow, Feb. 27, at The Arcade. Its name stands for “Not a Damn Chance Burger,” and they serve one option: A double Wagyu cheeseburger with secret sauce.

January 2026

This new cocktail bar in The Gulch has comfy booths, neon lights, and 80s vibes. Open until 1 a.m., Love’s Alibi is “a love letter to bold women, loud laughter, good music, and that perfect in-between hour when the light gets soft and the stories start.” Grab a pic in the photo booth with friends, order some elevated bar food, and have a good time.

Cilantro already has locations in South Nashville and 5 Points, but they’re now expanding to The Gulch, which seems to be a hotspot for new restaurants. They claim to have the best margaritas in town. You’ll have to visit to see if you agree.

We’re staying in The Gulch with this new self-pour bar and bowling alley. Watch the latest game on numerous TVs, hang out on the patio when the weather turns nice, and see if you can beat your friends at bowling. It’s currently having a soft opening, with a grand opening slated for Feb. 7.

Nashville’s newest sushi restaurant in Wedgewood-Houston offers sushi classics with a creative twist. Sushi Row started in Colorado Springs, and is operated by the creators of Dos Santos, which is right across the street. The menu includes pork belly buns, sake, and tamaki tacos.

This popular Germantown coffee shop has reopened after an interior revamp, with velvet couches and candles giving it a warm and cozy vibe. In addition to coffee, they’re now serving cocktails and food all day and night.

The folks behind West Nashville’s popular Streetcar Taps have opened a second location in Germantown. Expect the same great food and friendliness, and just like the Charlotte Pike location, there’s plenty of patio space, including a heated patio area. This is likely to become a neighborhood favorite.

This hip new bar, located inside downtown’s The Maddox Hotel, has a vintage speakeasy feel and lots of unique cocktails.

Over by K&S Market on Charlotte Pike, this Korean barbecue has an all-you-can-eat buffet, hot pot, and stoves at the table where you can cook your own food. It’s a fun space, with lots of claw machines and games, and cool interior decorations.

December 2025

Craving Chinese takeout? Golden Prawn in East Nashville has finally opened. Get classics like sweet and sour chicken and egg drop soup, and don’t forget the fortune cookie, which has Nashville-themed fortunes.

I cannot wait to check out this newly opened teahouse in East Nashville. There’s also a pottery studio inside, and handmade pottery for sale. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday, with morning and evening hours.

The Nation’s newest neighborhood bar is open every day of the week, with happy hour Monday through Friday from 3-7 p.m. It has a large outdoor area with games and a fire pit, where kids and dogs are welcome.

Open for 14 years in the Belle Meade Plaza before its demolition, this beloved hibachi and sushi restaurant is reopening at One Bellevue Place in time for the holidays. Ninki will be open on Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s! No reservations necessary.

Ladybird Taco has opened its third Nashville spot in The Gulch. Grab yourself Texas-inspired breakfast and lunch tacos, plus coffee. Its other locations are in East Nashville and 12 South.

The newest addition to Nashville Yards is a playful nod to two alligator pools that sat at The Union Station’s track level from 1900 to 1919. For December, check out its holiday-themed Naughty or Nice pop-up.

This Houston-based crêperie opens in Nashville Yards this week. Expect delicious Parisian-style breakfast foods all day long.

Surefire Coffee Co. has opened its fifth location, on Broadway. The coffee shop has free parking and Wi-Fi, plus plenty of indoor and patio seating.

Find beignets, specialty coffees, and other breakfast treats at Beignets & Brew’s first Nashville location in downtown. It’s currently serving holiday-themed drinks and treats.

Warm up with coffee or tea at this new Bordeaux coffee shop. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday, with pretty affordable prices!

Get your golf on and enjoy elevated takes on classic bar fare and creative cocktails at this new indoor entertainment venue in Midtown.

November 2025

This Chicago sushi restaurant recently opened in 12 South. Sushi-san is known for its ultra-fresh fish, sake, Japanese whisky list, and old school hip-hop soundtrack. I appreciate the extensive kids’ menu, including a cat-themed bento box!

After selling their delicious bao and dumplings at the Richland Park Farmers Market for years, the mother-daughter team behind Mama Yang has a storefront in Germantown. Find Taiwanese comfort food and teas, and you can even order frozen bao and dumplings to reheat later.

Head to oneC1TY to grab a poke bowl and fresh fish at this Hawaiian seafood market. We interviewed the owners last year about how they manage to get fresh fish to Nashville. So glad they have a permanent location now!

This new Wedgewood-Houston concept is both a pizza place and a vintage motorcycle shop. Beloved local chef The Jewish Cowboy makes the pizza crust. There’s also a full bar menu.

Grab tacos, burritos, and margaritas at this new Wedgewood-Houston restaurant, which opened its first location more than 40 years ago in California.

Franklin-based Italian restaurant Culaccino has opened a second location in Nashville Yards. Feast on housemade pasta, tiramisu, chicken liver pate, and much more.

This Los Angeles restaurant and celebrity favorite now has a Nashville location in The Gulch. Menu items include honey truffle fried chicken and a wide variety of vegan options.

Buchanan Street is now home to one of only two wood-fired sourdough bagel shops in the nation. The menu changes daily, though it typically includes schmears, salads, coffee, and tea in addition to bagels. All or Nothing Bagels is a woman-owned and operated business.

East Nashville is getting a new hot dog place. Opening on Nov. 24, this California franchise will have Tennessee craft beer on tap, along with hot dogs and burgers.

This upscale Mediterranean-inspired restaurant has also opened in East Nashville, with “theatrical” cocktails, a cool rooftop lounge, two patios, and live music and DJs on the weekend.

October 2025

This famed New York City restaurant has made its Nashville debut in The Gulch, offering Beijing-inspired cuisine like Peking duck and Kung Pao chicken. Nashville-only menu items include Appalachian lamb chops and Wagyu steaks.

Dose owner Keith Steunebrink and baker Jami Frazier have teamed up on a new venture — a North Nashville bakery in the Buchanan Arts District that serves delicious pastries and coffee. I mean, look at these beautiful pastries!

Over by Trader Joe’s on White Bridge Pike is a new comfort-food Korean restaurant, with kimbap, mandu, and tteokbokki. They also have grab-and-go options and lattes!

This Persian restaurant has also opened on White Bridge, right across the street from Ollé. The Iranian owner moved to Nashville at 12, and fell in love with the city’s diversity and community. Find sizzling kabobs, savory stews, and plenty of vegetarian options.

With locations in Arizona and Texas, The Sicilian Butcher has made its Nashville debut in Wedgewood-Houston, by The Finery and Dos Santos. It’s famous for its build-your-own-meal menu, where you can pair meatballs with a variety of pastas and breads. Order tiramisu and cannolis at The Sicilian Baker, in the same location.

Head to downtown’s Nashville Yards for a bite at this fast-casual Greek restaurant chain’s first location in Tennessee. They sell Greek street food like pita wraps, skewers, and salad bowls.

The husband-and-wife team behind this Old Hickory pub hopes it will become a neighborhood favorite. Feast on from-scratch pub fare while watching the latest game, or while listening to live music.

September 2025

The beloved Elliston Place bar, which closed in March after 20 years, has reopened in South Nashville, near GEODIS Park. The dive bar stays open until 3 a.m., and offers the same neighborhood feel as its previous location.

The husband-and-wife team behind this Ethiopian restaurant, originally located in The Arcade, was forced to close during the pandemic. They’ve reopened in a new South Nashville spot, and serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week except Wednesday.

This Mediterranean restaurant with locations in Chicago and Austin has opened a new location in Wedgewood-Houston. Enjoy truffled salmon, shawarma-spiced skirt steak frites, and sticky date cake. The decor looks very green and open.

Local sushi restaurant and bar Maru’s third location is also in Wedgewood-Houston. They serve shareable plates, yakitori, wine, and sake. Their other locations are in The Nations and East Nashville.

The Lipstick Lounge’s sports bar is officially open! Enjoy sliders and a pint while watching the big game. This East Nashville bar’s motto is “Sportsball for All.”

The team behind Old Glory has opened a new Vietnamese-inspired bar in East Nashville. Expect craft cocktails, delicious bar snacks like garlic noodles, and dancing late into the night.

Shout out to follower Rachel M. for recommending this new East Nashville brewery! She says the barbecue is lit. They’ve also got great vegetarian options! I can’t wait to check it out.

This local Italian market has opened its third location in Hillsboro Village. The menu features gourmet sandwiches, soups, salads, and house-made pasta. They also have locations in Germantown and Cool Springs.

This upscale Brazilian steakhouse chain is making its Tennessee debut at Nashville Yards, across from The Pinnacle. The menu includes shareable meals and the restaurant’s signature churrasco experience.

First opened in San Francisco, Mel’s Drive-In Diner has been serving up nostalgic American meals since 1947. Its first Tennessee location is in downtown Nashville. The decor includes 1950s cars, booths, and jukeboxes.

Thanks so much to Jenn Harbin of @TheHungryLoner, who has been writing wonderful new restaurant reviews with us for the past year, but will now be moving to New York City! We’ll miss you, and wish you the best of luck in this next chapter of your life 🫶

August 2025

Nashville sees new restaurants open every week, but Junior isn’t just another name on the list. From Chef Philip Krajeck and the team behind Rolf and Daughters and Folk, Junior carries a sense of history even as it opens its doors. The vibe is polished but not fussy: White tablecloths, lighting that actually flatters you, and an open kitchen running like clockwork in the middle of it all. The menu leans French with a little Basque-style thrown in. A pork and chicken pâté en croûte arrives with meticulous layers, brightened by cherries. The Bluefin niçoise cuts sharp and clean, while a dry-aged bavette steak — part Angus, part Wagyu — lands exactly where it should. Don’t skip the sweet corn barbajuan: One perfect, golden fried bite lingers long after it’s gone. Junior arrives like it’s always been here, and you get the sense it always will be. — Jenn Harbin, @TheHungryLoner

Love giant Italian sandwiches? Ingrassia & Sons Italian Deli in Wedgewood Houston has them, along with Italian grocery items, coffee, and desserts. They stay open until sold out, so consider getting there early!

The husband-and-wife team behind Rosemary & Beauty Queen has now opened a retro, animal-themed bar in East Nashville, with hidden nooks and crannies, outdoor pool tables, and lots of cool decor. The bar’s open until 2 a.m. every day.

Located inside Deacon’s New South in downtown, this raw oyster bar also serves small plates, cocktails, and nonalcoholic drinks.

Only weeks after opening in Franklin, the husband-and-wife team behind Perenn opened a second spot in Berry Hill, inside the Oak Barrel Building. The European bakery and restaurant has several locations in Nevada. Sip on tea or coffee while enjoying a pastry, or grab a salad or sandwich for lunch.

East Nashville is also getting a new bakery. Author and baker Jennifer Latham opened Mama Bread this week, right across the street from Lockeland Table. You’ll find butter, chocolate, and ham and cheese croissants, fresh country bread, coffee, and a small grocery section.

This new West Nashville boba shop sells crafts, offers cooking and craft classes, and features artwork from local artists.

Grab a cold brew, hot dog, and late-night snacks at this new Midtown bar, connected to Verna Café & Bar, another new restaurant where Connie’s serves hot dogs during the day.

One of Nashville’s best coffee shops has reopened in the Buchanan Arts District. It’s a cozy spot with couches and recliners, two levels, a small patio, and lots of plants and fun decor.

Local favorite Benji’s has opened a second location in East Nashville. Every bagel is hand-rolled, and they offer a wide variety of schmears and sandwich options.

This chain Japanese ramen restaurant has opened its first Nashville location in Germantown, inside the Starling apartment complex. The menu includes 11 different ramen bowls, plus rice and burger meals and desserts.

Country music star Ashley McBryde is opening an alcohol-optional bar on the fifth floor of Chief’s honky-tonk in downtown. In addition to serving NA drinks, the bar will host live music. It’s set to open in late August.

July 2025

Popular New York City French bistro Pastis has come to Nashville’s Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood. The dinner-only menu includes duck confit, trout amandine, and steak tartare, and the interior design is like its other locations, with red leather booths, white subway tiles, and low lighting.

Babychan is a Japanese-inspired cafe and coffee shop in Germantown’s Neuhoff District from the folks behind the award-winning Kisser. It’s only been open for a few days, but there are already lines out the door! And no wonder; the pastries look delicious.

This all-day dining concept inside Canopy by Hilton Nashville in The Gulch serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with brunch on weekends. For breakfast, try the eggs Benedict or lemon-lime agave pancakes. Later in the day, they serve interesting takes on menu classics, like short rib sliders and ponzu tuna. Silo has partnered with Five Points Pizza, Yazoo Brewing, and 8th and Roast to bring local favorites to the menu. They also have a kid- and pet-friendly patio.

Reservations are recommended for this upscale Asian-inspired fusion restaurant in downtown Nashville. The Detroit-based restaurant’s menu includes oysters, sushi, spicy Szechuan beef, and wok-fired Maine lobster. It’s open for dinner every night, and until midnight on the weekends.

Woodland Play Cafe is a much-needed indoor play area for kids six and under in East Nashville, with a cafe serving coffee, smoothies, light meals, and snack packs for kids. It’s a wonderful place for caregivers to hang out with their littles. Reservations are recommended; two hours of open play costs $27.

While Kettner Coffee closed its East Nashville flagship location in 2022, they’re making a comeback with a pop-up inside The Gulch plant and clothing store Jade and Clover. Grab a coffee and pastry (vegan and gluten-free options are available), have a seat at one of the tables inside, then peruse the plants and clothes. Kettner is open 7 a.m.-4 p.m. daily.

This popular Texas-based coffee shop recently opened in 12 South. The cafe’s mission is to spread kindness and to provide employment opportunities to young adults transitioning out of foster care. Menu items include several takes on avocado toast and lots of lattes. The all-white interior will be great for selfies!

Canadian coffee chain Tim Horton’s has opened in Donelson on Lebanon Pike. It’s a great place to grab a quick breakfast sandwich and coffee.

This popular Hawaiian restaurant recently opened its third Nashville-area location in Sylvan Park. PokeNash serves customizable Hawaiian poke bowls and seafood favorites. They’re open every day except Sunday.

M.L. Rose also recently opened a new location in Inglewood, and teamed up with local muralist Bryan Deese on three exterior murals. It’s their largest location to date, with a big covered patio with TVs, and a menu with all the classics: Craft beer, wings, chicken tenders, and more.

June 2025

Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, wrote these reviews.

Tantísimo started as a farmers market pop-up and has found a forever home in Sylvan Park, blending Latin American comfort with a sustainable, chef-driven approach — the kind of place where chorizo is made in-house, produce scraps become cocktails, and every dish tells a story. Mornings have a laid-back café vibe with espresso service, flaky pastries, and hits like flancakes and breakfast tacos. By night, things get bolder: Don’t miss the aguachile, a bright, bracing starter with citrus and heat, or the Argentinian churrasco steak, seared to perfection with chimichurri.

For something that calls itself a secret, Secret Bodega’s pop-ups are everywhere — bars, breweries, sandwich shops, market corners. Now you can find them at their permanent home inside East Nashville’s Pearl Diver, with menu hits like pierogies with hot giardiniera, the double-patty disco burger draped in a cheese blanket with Mexipoi relish, and the Bodega Puff — their ode to the Chicago-style pizza puff served with a punchy giardiniera ranch that honestly steals the show. Secret Bodega is just two people cooking like they mean it with a lot of love, one perfectly messy bite at a time.

Tucked in the heart of The Gulch, V Modern Italian is part restaurant, part cocktail lounge, part all-day social scene — and one of the buzziest new spots in town. It’s the first U.S. outpost from Fast Fine Restaurant Group, which runs sleek Italian concepts across Europe and the Middle East. For Nashville, they’ve brought in Michelin-starred chef Stefano Ciotti to reimagine the classics: House-made pastas, sourdough-crust pizzas, and entrées that balance comfort with a little flair. It’s luxe but not stuffy — the kind of place where you can split a margherita and a bottle of Lambrusco with friends, or slip in solo for an Aperol spritz and a seat at the bar, just to soak it all in.

Tucked inside the Neuhoff District, Close Company ditches the usual cocktail formalities for a walk-in-only setup with fast pours, bar ordering, and a menu designed for good times. The menu groups drinks by mood: Fizzy, Juicy, Boozy, and Zero Proof. Standouts include the Pet-Nat Paloma, Super Martini, and an Adventure Gimlet, smooth as summer. They’ve also got playful sidekicks like a grapefruit Radler with “red hot” amaro, and delicious pastry pockets in flavors like French onion and Spicy Pepp. With clever cocktails, solid snacks, and the kind of energy that makes you want to stick around, this is one of the most exciting recent additions to Germantown.

What do you get when two classically trained chefs trade Lake Tahoe for Tennessee? Perenn, a new European bakery and rotisserie, is now open in downtown Franklin. The menu blends elegance and comfort: Buttery croissants, naturally fermented sourdough, rotisserie chicken dinners, and their signature Vanilla Crème Brûlée Kouign Amann. Brunch is classic and cozy — crispy bacon, soft eggs, potato pavé, toast with jam and butter, and a must-order almond croissant that’s flaky, golden, and deeply satisfying. Between the pastries, the rotisserie, and the river views, Perenn makes a strong case for Main Street mornings — and lazy brunches that stretch into the afternoon. A location in Oak Hill is opening later this summer.

May 2025

Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, wrote these reviews.

The Catbird Seat may have changed addresses, but it remains one of Nashville’s most ambitious (and rewarding) places to dine. With skyline views, its new rooftop home in Paseo South Gulch provides more seating and the same front-row chef’s counter experience. The 15-course menu still stuns — shiitake custard, halibut bouillabaisse, lamb neck with Carolina Gold rice — all delivered with precision and ease.

Like The Catbird Seat, The Patterson House has relocated atop the Bill Voorhees Building. The velvet curtains and hidden entrance are gone, but the signature chandeliers and low-lit charm remain. The expanded space brings two menus: The Short List (rotating experimental drinks), and The Long Menu (a 150-cocktail archive of Patterson’s greatest hits). Think popcorn milk, birdseed cordial, and plenty of surprises. Also new? A full dinner menu from The Catbird Seat featuring dishes like charred leek asparagus, a pork chop with trout roe, and the Bear Creek Burger.

What started as a vintage camper in Miami is now a full-blown donut empire — and it just touched down in Nashville. The Salty’s first Tennessee outpost, now open in 12 South, is also their first all-day café. The menu’s setup is like a choose-your-own-adventure: Pick from sections like Breakfast Club, Toasted Favorites, and Savory Mains. Start with the buttery egg and cheese croissant, or go for the brioche avocado toast and the pistachio pesto Caesar. Of course, there are donuts — small-batch brioche beauties like the Mixed Berry Cheesecake, Chocolate Sheet Cake, and classic glazed. Try the cold brew and lemonade — bright, refreshing, and perfect for a hot Nashville afternoon.

Former James Beard semifinalist Chef Robbie Wilson and his wife Emily are back in Nashville with a fast-casual burger joint in Sylvan Park that’s anything but ordinary. SuperNormal blends fine-dining with American comfort classics: Melty cheeseburgers with smoky pickled shiitakes; a beef hot dog loaded with bacon marmalade and yuzu cream cheese; and the #1 Delicious Burger, a sleeper-hit made with a pork/beef blend, XO mayo, chili crisp, and lemongrass-pickled veggies. For dessert, try the buttercream soft serve in mochi-style waffle cones — rich, dreamy, and reason enough to stop by. Ordering is all self-serve kiosks and mobile pick-up, with a turf lawn, picnic tables, and plenty of space to linger.

Lola’s, the beloved New Jersey café known for its Italian gelato and cozy vibes, just opened its second location, in Midtown. The space blends European café charm with local flavor, featuring a wraparound bar, plenty of seating, and partnerships with H&S Bagels, Little Gourmand, and 8th & Roast for a menu of pastries, sandwiches, and light bites. Try the chopped Italian sub with fresh bread and all the perfect toppings, or the pepperoni and honey flatbread. The gelato is made fresh in-house daily using ingredients sourced from top Italian gelaterias. They’re in soft launch mode, pouring only wine and beer for now, but a full cocktail menu is coming soon. Whether grabbing a quick espresso or settling in with a cheese board, Lola’s feels like a little escape.

April 2025

Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, wrote these reviews.

Urban Cowboy Bar, the first standalone bar from Lyon Porter and Jersey Banks, has opened inside the historic Arcade. The 8,000-square-foot space stretches across three floors: A rowdy first-floor saloon pouring frosty mugs and whiskey shots, a Roberta’s counter slinging wood-fired pies and slices, and an upstairs cocktail bar framed by the Arcade’s soaring windows. Grab a hot margherita slice and a Standing Room cocktail inside a historic landmark reimagined to bring locals back downtown.

Little Rey, an Atlanta-born, Mexican-inspired fast-casual concept, opened this month on West End in Midtown, with a lively menu built around wood-roasted chicken, breakfast tacos, frozen margaritas, and soft serve. Order a tray of pollo al carbon, smoked wings with salsa macha, or pork tacos off the grill, and don’t skip a grapefruit margarita to wash it all down on their covered patio.

Fishmonger, another Atlanta spot, has officially opened its first outpost outside of Georgia in Germantown’s Neuhoff District — with a second location already on the way. The space is small but packed with personality: Neon lights, citrus-foamed oysters, colorful crudo plates, and a bright indoor patio strung with greenery. It’s built for breezy afternoons over frozen cocktails like the saffron-spiked Painkiller and the neon-pink Fishmonger Gibson. On the menu: Gulf shrimp rolls, tuna melts on sourdough, caviar bumps, and their runaway hit — the blackened grouper sandwich, slicked with Florida sauce and pickled peppers.

Sho Pizza Bar, the newest project from Chef Sean Brock, Mary Carlisle, and Ben Gambill, is a Tokyo-by-way-of-Tennessee pizza bar tucked inside East Nashville’s Riverside Village. A blue-tiled oven turns out Sho’s signature pies with 72-hour fermented dough that’s light, chewy, and crackles on the bite. Classics like the margherita anchor the menu, but the daily "Sho-Stopper" pie and must-orders like the salumi with Calabrese salami and chili honey show off the restaurant’s playful side. The bar leans Italian and Japanese with sake, Italian wines, and cocktails like the Industry Spritz — an earthy, blood-orange patio crusher.

The Texas-based Curry Boys BBQ has landed in East Nashville, fusing oak-smoked brisket and pulled pork with vibrant Thai curries over jasmine rice. The move marks a new chapter for chefs Sean Wen, Andrew Ho, Andrew Samia (James Beard semifinalists), and Nashville partner Adam Lathan. Must-orders include the Brisket Smoke Show with Thai green curry and the snappy smoked pork sausage blanketed in curried queso. Set inside a punchy pink bungalow, Curry Boys brings a colorful new flavor to Riverside Village.

March 2025

Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, wrote these reviews.

Skinny Dennis x Little Miss Mao

Brooklyn’s rowdiest honky-tonk just landed in East Nashville, just south of Grimey’s and American Legion Post 82. With a dance floor, game room, and a musician-friendly setup, Skinny Dennis delivers honky-tonk nostalgia while Little Miss Mao flips bar food on its head. Sister concept to New Orleans’ famous Mister Mao, Little Miss Mao, led by Cambodian-American James Beard semifinalist Sophina Uong, serves adventurous “inauthentic” takes on global dishes like garlic noodles, prahok ktiss (Khmer curried pork and fermented seafood dip), and grilled Alabama oysters.

Dukos isn’t your typical pizzeria — it’s a community-driven take on Italian food from Nashville chefs Billy Hughes and Maurice Edmondson, blending wood-fired pizzas with Southern ingredients and modern techniques. Inspired by the success of their tequila bar Makeshift — right next door in East Nashville — their new concept features beloved classics like slow-cooked meatballs or cacio e pepe, while pushing boundaries with dishes like oxtail pizza with crispy collard greens. The vibe is laid-back yet high-energy, with a cocktail menu that’s just as thoughtful as the food.

Created by California restaurateur Jeff Chon and Nashville-based chef Nick Aguilar, Koshō by Tabu, located in SoBro, specializes in grilled skewers, shareable small plates, umami-packed dishes alongside inventive cocktails, and interactive shabu shabu dining in a lively, communal setting. The menu showcases shareables like the crispy chicken karaage with a fiery yuzu koshō aioli and Korean-inspired manila clams. Customizable shabu shabu allows diners to choose from rich sukiyaki, aromatic kombu dashi, or punchy spicy miso paired with Wagyu short rib, prime New York strip, or buttery king salmon.

Kase x Noko makes top-tier sushi accessible and exciting, blending fine dining with East Nashville’s hip-hop energy. Created by the team behind Noko, this intimate, 14-seat omakase serves high-end sushi at an unbeatable price — $75 for 14 courses. Led by Chef Dung “Junior” Vo, the menu features nigiri and hand rolls with seafood sourced from Japan, Hawaii, and Spain, served in a wabi-sabi-inspired space adorned with handmade ceramics and Gyotaku fish prints. Highlights include a toro hand roll, A5 Wagyu with foie gras, and scallop with yuzu-pepper paste, with optional à la carte add-ons. The experience is interactive and immersive, with sake pairings and cocktails (including spirit-free).

Straight from NOLA, Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse isn’t just a sandwich shop — it’s a wild, flavor-packed, nostalgia-fueled party with some serious culinary chops from Chef Mason Hereford. Try their famous fried bologna piled high with hot mustard, potato chips, shrettuce, mayo, and American cheese on thick-cut toast, or the hashbrown and salmon roe sandwich with Cantabrian anchovy crème fraîche, lemon, and chives. Don’t miss the flavorful cabbage salad with roasted chili, coconut vinaigrette, and pig ear cracklins. The backyard-party vibe, complete with a massive dog-friendly patio, makes it one of the funnest places to eat in East Nashville.

February 2025

Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, wrote these reviews.

From the team behind Daddy’s Dogs comes East Nashville’s newest dive bar, Gramps Garage. It feels like stepping into your grandpa’s workshop, with retro memorabilia on every wall and an unpretentious vibe that makes you want to settle in for hours. Expect classic beers, no-fuss cocktails (coming soon), and Hungry Man TV dinners if you’re feeling snacky. Gramps also caters to the booze-free crowd on “Twistered Tuesdays,” with a full nonalcoholic menu from Killjoy with THC-infused drinks, wine, beer, and mocktails.

Downtown’s newest hotspot, Lona, serves bold Mexican flavors inside Noelle, courtesy of chefs Richard Sandoval and Pablo Salas. The space is full of personality with vibrant colors, warm textures, and a striking mural by Ruben Ubiera. Whether you’re perched at the bar or sinking into a leather banquette, the energy is electric. Dive into the ceviche with plump prawns, zesty lime, and serrano heat, or savor the carne asada tacos packed with tender skirt steak and melted Oaxaca cheese. Don’t skip the enchiladas poblanas layered with housemade mole, shredded chicken, and queso fresco. Wash it down with a mezcal old-fashioned and save room for the churros with Abuelita chocolate and cajeta.

New Berlin is bringing proper döner kebab to Nashville, thanks to brothers Tyson and Lucas Sharpe and their lifelong friend Braden Welborn, who were inspired by their German roots. Packed inside their house-baked fladenbrot is high-quality meat from a Turkish company, pickled red cabbage, sumac onions, tomato, lettuce, and a blend of tzatziki ranch and spicy curry sauce. Don’t miss the poutine: Crispy fries, Wisconsin cheese curds, rich beef gravy, and all the döner fixings. Launched as a food truck in 2021, they found a permanent home at Reunion in Five Points.

Bringing cozy French charm to East Nashville’s Eastwood Village, The Yellow Table Café is inspired by the well-loved yellow table from chef and owner Anna Watson Carl’s childhood. Anna spent years studying and teaching in France, and her love for French cuisine sparked a dream to open an authentic crêperie in her hometown. This charming spot serves delicate crêpes with salted butter, savory galettes with goat cheese and leek butter, pastries galore, and perfectly brewed coffee.

When Sauced opened in Williamsburg, VA, it ditched the wine bar clichés — no menus, no fuss, just great wine, good bites, and an easygoing vibe. Now it’s come to Germantown, and it’s exactly the kind of spot we needed. Its cozy space feels more like a friend’s living room than a bar. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a good time, you’ll feel welcome. If you’re hungry, don’t skip the “Uncle Morty,” with mortadella and pistachio cream on a buttery brioche. Rotating pop-ups from local gems like S.S. Gai and Pizza Lolo are the ultimate crowd-pleasers. Come for the wine, stay for the food, and leave with a new favorite hangout.

January 2025

Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, wrote these reviews.

In the heart of The Nations, Perfectly Fine may just be Nashville’s best new bar. You’ll find craft cocktails — like the refreshing Whiskey Drink made with bourbon, pear, and lemon — plus local craft beers, classic beer-and-shot combos, and non-alcoholic options. It’s also a great place to grab lunch or a late-night bite, with elevated comfort food favorites like mojo pork lettuce wraps, pan-seared pierogies, and the hot chicken bacon creole ranch wrap with fries. Inside, it’s all about cozy charm: Plush booths, vintage touches, a free-to-play pool table, and a heated patio that’s perfect year-round.

Now open in Wedgewood-Houston, the family-owned and operated taqueria Dos Santos draws inspiration from brothers Jason and Kris Wallenta’s Mexico City roots and childhood spent in their uncle’s restaurant kitchens. Don’t miss the eskites (Mexican street corn), crunchy beef tacos, or grilled shrimp tacos — all perfectly balanced flavors where authenticity meets sophistication. You can also find agave-forward cocktails, like the carajillo or paloma, on the menu, plus breakfast burritos for the early risers.

Here’s another restaurant that pulls from the chef’s Mexico City roots! Chef Edgar Victoria began Alebrije as a local pop-up before expanding into food trucks and a concession stand. Now he’s opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant next to Coral Club in East Nashville. With just 35 seats, this intimate space offers a high-end casual take on Mexican cuisine. The new spot features breakfast carryout (think coffee, tacos, tamales, and chilaquiles), a dine-in lunch, and a curated menu for Coral Club guests. Expect Oaxacan-sourced corn and dishes like tlayuda, mole, and elote, all crafted with a modern twist.

Speaking of the Coral Club, Pizza Lolo’s new residency turns the club into Nashville’s go-to pizza spot every Wednesday evening. From handcrafted Neapolitan pies to classic Margherita pizzas and indulgent roasted garlic cream pizzas, there’s something for everyone here. The dough — a blend of three flours, and cold-fermented for extra flavor and crunch — creates a crisp, chewy, and utterly irresistible pie. Pair your slice with Coral Club’s wine specials or a cocktail for the ultimate midweek pick-me-up.

Every Friday evening this month, Fox Den Izakaya transforms Proper Sake’s Rice Vice into an intimate slice of Japan. Sip sake, slurp ramen, and soak in the izakaya vibes that make Fox Den a standout in Nashville’s food scene. One of their handcrafted dishes, Shio Paitan, layers creamy pork and chicken broth with roasted garlic, sake dashi tare, and allium aroma oil topped with handmade noodles, pork belly chashu, and green onion. Whether you’re craving snacks, drinks, ramen perfection, or just a cozy atmosphere, catch Fox Den Izakaya’s residency in East Nashville before it ends.

November 2024

Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, wrote these reviews.

Midtown just got a splash of Charleston’s magic with Hall’s Catch, an upscale seafood sanctuary. Executive Chef Morgan Lewis brings a cosmopolitan flair to the menu, and fresh seafood is flown in daily from around the globe. Inside, the chic main dining room and lively bar lounge set the tone for indulgence, while the centerpiece bar buzzes with warm hospitality. Standout dishes include delicate yellowfin tuna from the raw bar; a decadent sushi roll with tuna, shrimp, eel, and caviar; and the Alaskan halibut with romesco, a feast for the senses.

East Nashville’s Turmeric & Co., tucked into Hunter’s Station, delivers fresh takes on South Asian flavors thanks to the creativity of Executive Chef Angel Postalakis. Must-try dishes include the indulgent butter chicken tostada, the fiery-sweet Nashville chicken 615 with Kashmiri spice, the savory Lamb Seekh Tandoor, and the velvety sweet potato gnocchi with cashew korma sauce. Pair your meal with the Cosmo Spritz, a refreshing blend of vodka, orange, lime, and sparkling mulled cranberry — a cocktail that’s as vibrant as the food.

Tantísimo, born from its roots as a farmers market pop-up, is now a full-fledged celebration of Latin American cuisine in Sylvan Park. Partners Ana Aguilar, Josh Cook, and Maria Escamilla have created a farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on sustainability and cultural authenticity. On Sundays, the pop-up serves up some of the best tamales in town, and irresistible breakfast tacos with chorizo and eggs, giving diners a taste of what’s to come. As Tantísimo readies for its official opening, its mission is clear: to inspire connection and enrich community.

The Asbury is Demonbreun Street’s latest bar, where owner Elliott Shannon combines his Jersey roots with his deep connection to Music City to create a space that’s equal parts cool and welcoming. The bar’s design is open and breezy, thanks to a massive garage door that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor vibes. The menu pairs creative cocktails — like their signature espresso martini — with Jersey-style subs from Castellucci’s, ensuring you’re never drinking on an empty stomach. Known for its killer happy hour and easygoing atmosphere, The Asbury is your new go-to for drinks, good tunes, and a taste of Asbury Park-meets-Nashville charm.

Fast food, but make it brilliant. Chef Sean Brock’s Joyland in Sylvan Heights delivers nostalgia with a gourmet twist, marking its second Nashville outpost with premium, locally sourced ingredients, such as organic chicken from the family-owned Springer Mountain Farm and a proprietary Joyland beef blend from Bear Creek Farm. The menu includes the crave-worthy Crustburger, crispy Joysticks (think Japanese kushikatsu meets Southern comfort), flaky buttermilk biscuits (gluten-free options included), rich handmade shakes, and seasonal hand pies.

October 2024

Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, wrote these reviews.

What began as a pandemic tortilla food truck side hustle has blossomed into a thriving restaurant at Paseo South Gulch. Maiz de la Vida’s vibrant, open space exudes a communal atmosphere that invites diners to stay and share a meal. James Beard Award semifinalist Julio Hernandez, originally from Tlaxcala, Mexico, infuses his heritage into a menu that's both familiar and bold, with highlights like enchiladas and duck breast served with rich, flavorful mole negro. Don’t miss the tres leches de cafe for a swoon-worthy dessert finale.

Start your day with a frothy Greek cappuccino or house-favorite masala chai — a creamy, sweet blend of Assam tea and aromatic spices — at Cafe Babu. This new cafe nestled in Chestnut Hill blends European charm with rich cultural roots, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. The signature babu latte, made with homemade cardamom syrup, is a spiced dream in a cup. Pair your coffee with fresh pastries from local bakeries, or for something more filling, the prosciutto and fig and Mumbai veggie sandwich are great options. In the evening, Cafe Babu transforms into the perfect hangout where you can sip wine or cocktails. Whether for a quiet retreat or a casual meetup, it’s a must-visit for Nashville’s café lovers.

Get ready, East Nashville: Rock ‘n’ roll masterminds Mike Grimes and Dave Brown have launched Lowbar, your new underground spot for pre-show drinks, post-show karaoke, and good times. Located beneath their venue The Basement East, Lowbar is a nod to their former bar, Slow Bar, in Five Points. Designed by the team behind Rosemary & Beauty Queen, this bar serves elevated cocktails like palomas and old fashioneds, with wings from JaQ Rabbit Slims. The retro vibe, a blend of “Saturday Night Fever” and “Cheers,” sets the stage for dancing, pool, darts, and karaoke. With 4,500 square feet, including a 900-square-foot karaoke room, and a 40-seat patio, it’s the perfect spot to grab a drink before heading upstairs for a show. Ticket holders can even skip the line and enter through a rear entrance for a seamless concert experience.

TashTea Cafe, a new family-owned Kurdish and Turkish restaurant, brings breakfast traditions to life with an authentic, leisurely dining experience. Seating options range from traditional Middle Eastern-style floor poufs to modern tables and a coffee bar, and the atmosphere invites guests to relax and savor their meal. Start your morning with Turkish tea or coffee brewed over hot sand. Their signature breakfast platter features an array of cheeses, olives, honey, butter, yogurt, tahini, sausage, and fresh borek. For heartier options, the menemen — a tomato-based dish with eggs and spices — or the fried eggs with sausage are standout choices. The generous, shareable plates create a sense of community, and with the addition of lunch and bakery options, this all-day spot offers far more than the usual fare.

Nestled in the bustling 12 South Collection, The Henry is the latest buzz in Nashville’s dining scene, brought to life by the team behind Pushing Daisies and The Twelve Thirty Club. Whether you're stopping in for a morning coffee, a business lunch, or after-work cocktails, The Henry’s Gatsby-era charm and welcoming atmosphere make it the ultimate neighborhood spot to unwind, dine, and raise a glass. Led by Executive Chef Helen Mora, the menu features standout dishes like spicy tuna & crispy rice and Korean skirt steak with double egg fried rice. Their famed brunch pairs indulgent cinnamon swirl French toast or classic eggs Benedict perfectly with mimosas. Don't miss the Southern City Mischief, a memorable mix of bourbon, chai, orange marmalade, and Madagascar vanilla.

September 2024

Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, wrote these reviews.

Choy beautifully blends the nostalgia of mid-20th century Shanghai with a modern edge. This North Gulch newcomer isn’t your standard Chinese-American cuisine — Tennessee-sourced ingredients give the food a local touch, while the flavors stay true to their roots. The combined expertise of Michelin-star Consulting Chef Brandon Jew and Executive Chef Brian Griffith shines through every dish, from the crowd-pleasing Peking duck to the flavorful beef chow fun. Start with an inventive cocktail like the gin-based Golden Gate with Ming River baijiu, Mancino Secco, and maraschino. Don't miss the squid ink pork wontons or the fluffy scallion pancake, and finish your meal with the sorghum ma lai go, a light and fluffy steamed sponge cake.

Located in the Gulch, Golden Sound is more than just a bar — it’s a tribute to Nashville’s rich musical history, where the past mingles effortlessly with the present. Once a 1960s recording studio, the creative energy still lingers; inside, you're greeted by the soft glow of intimate lighting, leather banquettes that beckon for long conversations, and a spacious bar that’s ready for you to pull up a seat and stay a while. As a toast to this venue’s vibrant roots, try a champagne cocktail or creative concoction from the “Spirits of Mexico” menu, like the Rocky Top with mezcal, sherry, Cointreau, lime, and black salt.

When Mike Rypka first launched Torchy’s Tacos, it was a humble food truck parked in downtown Austin. Seventeen years later, the brand has exploded to over 100 locations across 14 states, including our new Midtown location. Known for their green chile queso and scratch-made tacos featuring creative, globally sourced ingredients, their packed menu is served in a fun, friendly atmosphere. Each flavorful bite proudly upholds their “Damn Good” mantra, from their beloved fried chicken-stuffed trailer park taco to the smoky, indulgent crossroads brisket taco. Don’t miss out on the hidden gems, like the secret menu’s green chile pork missionary-style taco: A mouthwatering combo of tender carnitas wrapped in a double tortilla for the perfect crunch. Pair it all with their crispy chips, gooey queso, and a refreshing margarita.

If you’re looking to elevate your night, this East Nashville rooftop bar should be at the top of your list. Perched above Waymore’s Guest House, Tall Tales offers a laid-back yet stylish plant-filled oasis, making it the ideal spot to catch a sunset or dance the night away. The menu offers a range of cocktails, from light and refreshing to bold and strong, all crafted with precision. Try the Garden Hornet, a mezcal-based drink with Faccia Brutto centerbe, matcha, lime, and mint — just the right mix of smokey, herbal, and tangy. Pair it with their shareable bites, like the roasted beet tahini or the spicy Nashville hot chips with creamy buttermilk ranch.

Tucked behind the JW Marriott downtown, 888 offers a memorable sensory escape where sound and flavor linger long after you leave. This intimate Japanese restaurant and vinyl-listening lounge draws inspiration from Japan’s jazz kissas, with an audiophile’s dream sound system and sushi crafted by Chef Deden “Benny the Blade” Bandi — a sushi master with more than two decades of experience. Menu highlights include nigiri, maki, okonomiyaki, and hot karaage, while unique cocktails like their matcha mezcal sour and an extensive selection of Japanese craft beers, rare whiskies, and a curated sake program ensure plenty of options.

August 2024

Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, wrote these reviews.

In Korea, sool-koré refers to a person who loves to eat and drink, and the appropriately named Koré gives us reasons to indulge. Chefs Brendan Yun and Nick Rho’s Korean and French culinary backgrounds add a modern approach to their new style of Asian food, pairing westernized international tapas with unique ingredients and flavors. Don’t miss the refreshing cucumber salad, kalbi dumpling, or crispy, fall-off-the-bone braised pork sticky ribs. Soju-infused drinks with a choice of juices come in a light-up pouch with a straw, Capri-Sun style. The ambiance at night is lively and friendly.

The team behind Nashville’s beloved Butcher & Bee and Redheaded Stranger brings a whole new vibe to fine dining that’s as fun as it is fancy with their new restaurant Fancypants. Start with a welcome cocktail, with or without alcohol, and prepare for an immersive experience of inventive recipes and attentive hospitality. Chef Bryan Weaver’s dishes are seasonally driven and flavorful, like his potato chip-crusted chicken-fried cauliflower with coconut gravy, or the turnip noodle lasagna with parmesan foam. Diners can choose three courses from the prix fixe menu and have the option to add items from the “bonus menu,” or dessert, which I highly recommend. The bread service and the Funfetti cheesecake alone are worth the visit.

Escape Nashville at Coral Club, which offers the tranquility of a coastal oasis and an electric nighttime atmosphere. Founded by seasoned hospitality veterans, its design evokes a seaside getaway with neutral hues, sweeping stone features, and an open-air rooftop. The bright and spacious sun parlor offers intimate spaces for conversation and sunset views, complemented by a cocktail menu crafted to inspire wanderlust. Highlights include the rosé paloma and sunliner, a refreshing mix of mezcal, Cynar, passionfruit, and honey paired with a thoughtful selection of Mediterranean-inspired bar snacks, like the Marcona almond and olive mix, mortadella & parmesan cheese plate, and tinned fish with Spanish peppers.

Butterlamp Bread & Beverage redefines what a bread house and wine bar can be. Owners Ben and Katie Rose Tyson have brought their travel-inspired dream to life in this cozy neighborhood gem that feels destined to become a local staple. The wine list includes sparkling, white, skin contact, and chilled reds, plus by-the-glass selections alongside cocktails and non-alcoholic options. Their bread offerings range from OG sourdough to inventive varieties like kombu, cracked pepper, and fermented sweet potato. Enjoy delicious dishes like the mussels with oyster emulsion and fresh herbs, tangy tomato and garlic olive oil, and sunflower seed pesto with mortadella, all served on warm toasted bread. For snacks, deviled eggs in a skirt and pork fat fries caught my eye, but don’t leave without tasting their dreamy fig leaf ice cream. Butterlamp offers indoor seating, a patio, and a walk-up window for grab-and-go.

Husband and wife JP and Mary McLeod found themselves transformed after living in Uganda, where they embraced slow, intentional living and developed a deep appreciation for coffee by witnessing the bean-to-cup process firsthand. Forevermore Coffee was born out of this philosophy. It’s a bright, inviting space where locals can grab a drink, shop curated goods, or even work. The menu features classics like lattes, matcha, teas, and a selection of pastries, but a standout is their NOLA slush, with New Orleans-style cold brew steeped in chicory root and topped with oat milk and a caramel cold foam.