Your Updated Guide to The Gulch, One of Nashville’s Most Bustling Neighborhoods
Here's your updated guide on where to eat, drink, and play in The Gulch, one of Nashville's most bustling โ and ever-changing โ neighborhoods. Image: Facebook / L.A.Jackson
As Nashville continues to grow, neighborhoods like The Gulch evolve right alongside it, welcoming a steady stream of new restaurants, bars, and boutiques. A favorite among locals and visitors alike, this centrally located area offers a little bit of everything. Consider this your go-to guide to exploring The Gulch โ not to be confused with North Gulch or Capitol View.
WHERE TO EAT
For a relatively small area, The Gulch is home to some of Nashvilleโs tastiest and trendiest restaurants.
- Adeleโs: Donโt leave without tasting the famous Kale Salad and JW Potatoes. This spot is excellent for groups, and we always recommend ordering multiple dishes so you can taste a bit of everything.
- Arnoldโs Country Kitchen: Opened by Jack and Rose Arnold in 1982, this is a โmom-and-popโ family business. The food is made from scratch daily, just like your grandmaโs home cooking. Jack and Roseโs children have continued serving Nashvillians and visitors, and on any given day, you can find at least three Arnolds here cooking and serving.
- Bar Louie: Grab a cocktail and order from a menu of elevated bar favorites like burgers, flatbreads, and loaded tots. This gastropub has a great patio, complete with a fire pit, too!
- Bar Mar: Located inside W Nashville, Bar Mar is Josรฉ Andrรฉsโs celebration of coastal cuisine, where modern techniques meet familiar favorites from both land and sea. Signature takes on seafood classics are paired with premium meats, adding depth to the menu.

- Biscuit Love: Risk it for the biscuit! No, really, prepare to wait in line for a taste of those famous โbonutsโ or the hidden menu item: The Nasty Princess, a hot chicken biscuit topped with sausage gravy.
- Burger Republic: As youโd expect, youโll find plenty of inventive burgers (and veggie burgers!) on the menu here. But donโt leave without a taste of the Nashville Hot Tots.
- The Catbird Seat: The Catbird Seat is back! Now located atop the Bill Voorhees Building on 8th Avenue South, chefs Andy Doubrava and Tiffani Ortiz are ushering in a new chapter for this legendary culinary destination. The ever-changing, seafood-oriented tasting menu is sure to keep you coming back.
- COA: Featuring bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and dishes designed for sharing, COA offers a modern take on Mexican cuisine. Itโs a rooftop destination for delicious dining and handcrafted cocktails.
- Craigโs: An iconic modern American restaurant rooted in old-school charm and timeless hospitality, Craigโs is known for its elevated comfort food and impeccable service. Itโs the brandโs first expansion from its home base in Los Angeles, CA.
- Del Friscoโs Grille: Enjoy modern American cuisine, warm hospitality, and refreshing drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
- Emmy Squared: Serving Detroit-style pizza, this New York-founded restaurant has made a splash in Nashville. Try the Hot Chicken Pizza or the Hot Chicken Wedge if youโre looking for Music City-style heat.
- Federales Tequila & Tacos: This open-air restaurant and bar offers a lively atmosphere, delicious drinks, and tasty tacos. No visit is complete without ringing the bell โ donโt know what we mean? Head to Feds and find out!
- The Gumbo Bros: For a taste of the deep South right here in Nashville, The Gumbo Bros is the place to go. Before a night out, itโs a great place to fill up on hearty Cajun comfort foods like gumbo, fried seafood, and poโboy sandwiches. (SB Tip: If youโre feeling adventurous, go for the fried Louisiana alligator.)

- Iberian Pig: The Atlanta favoriteโs Gulch location serves Spanish flavors in an eclectic and social space. The menu features traditional charcuterรญa, queso, and tapas.
- Kayne Prime: Known as one of Nashvilleโs best steakhouses, Kayne Prime promises an exquisite experience whether you grab a drink and apps at the bar or settle in for a multi-course meal.
- Luogo: Restaurateur Anthony Scotto brings upscale Italian fare to the heart of The Gulch with Luogo. Find his iconic dishes on the menu, as well as Mediterranean-coastal style cuisine.
- Maiz de la Vida: What started as a food truck is now a cemented local favorite, offering Mexican cuisine with elevated, chef-driven takes on traditional dishes
- Marsh House: Light and bright, the restaurant inside the Thompson Hotel has made a name for itself as a seafood destination. Enjoy brunch, happy hour, or dinner.
- Milk & Honey: Hailing from Chattanooga (and with rave reviews), Milk & Honey offers brunch, breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, and juice โย thereโs something for every craving!
- Moto: This Italian restaurant has an extensive wine list and homemade pasta. Donโt miss the crispy artichokes or strozzapreti pasta with lobster, Boursin cream, and yuzu butter bread crumbs.
- Neighbors: With locations across Nashville, Neighbors is the perfect spot to catch the game and grab an after-work drink. Enjoy happy hour specials Monday through Friday, plus a special late-night food menu.
- Otaku Ramen: Where slurping is allowed! Order a bowl of Tennessee Tonkotsu and warm up from the inside out.
- Peg Leg Porker: With barbecue smoked fresh daily and Southern sides made with love, Peg Leg Porker serves up mouth-watering meals. Pair your BBQ with a boozy slushie for the full experience!

- The Pub: At the corner of 11th and Pine, youโll find The Pub, an authentic English eatery with a cozy and bustling atmosphere. It offers a full menu of favorites like fish and chips, but itโs also a great spot to grab a beer and watch the game.
- Saint Aรฑejo: For Mexican fare and margaritas, head to Saint Aรฑejo, where you can enjoy a great happy hour and brunch on the weekends (hello, breakfast tacos!).
- Silo: Located in the former Yazoo Brewery, Silo is your go-to spot for delicious food, featuring a menu of modern gastropub cuisine designed to bring people together. Stop by for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch, and enjoy creative takes on familiar favorites and shareable small plates.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery: Flip the script on breakfast. Snooze in The Gulch offers a unique menu of responsibly sourced fare and gourmet coffee.
- STK: Try STK for a scene-y steakhouse with a lively atmosphere. The menu offers more than just steaks โ like pancake stacks you can only dream of.
- St. Vito Focacceria: This is the only spot in Nashville serving Sicilian-style pizza called โsfincione.โ Light, crispy, and mouth-watering, itโs like nothing youโve ever tasted.
- Sunda: In the heart of The Gulch, Sunda serves up modern interpretations of dishes from all over Southeast Asia.
- Superica: Offering a fun atmosphere โ complete with a large outdoor patio โ Superica specializes in Tex-Mex favorites like nachos, fajitas, tamales, and a variety of creative margaritas. The guacamole is not to be missed!
- Sushi | Bar: The traditional sushi counter, reimagined. Behind unmarked doors and intimate counters, guests are treated to a 17-course journey featuring flavors from both land and sea.
- Two Hands: Serving breakfast through dinner, Two Hands offers a menu rooted in local sourcing and sustainable practices. This Australian-inspired cafรฉ and bar puts a creative twist on comfort food and mixes a mean cocktail, too!
- V Modern Italian: Named for the Roman numeral five, V Modern Italian is designed to engage all five senses. Savor elevated Italian classics crafted in collaboration with chef Stefano Ciotti, alongside expertly curated cocktails by Federico Pollarolo.
- Virago: Located between Moto and Saint Aรฑejo, this space serves the sushi weโve loved since its Midtown days. Trust us, order the crispy rice and spicy tuna!
- Zaytinya: Another concept under Chef Josรฉ Andrรฉs, Zaytinya Nashville brings the vibrant flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean to Music City. Inspired by Turkish, Greek, and Lebanese cuisines, patrons can enjoy shared small plates alongside heartier main dishes, complemented by creative cocktails and distinctive Mediterranean wines.
QUICK BITES
The Gulch boasts its fair share of upscale dining establishments, but there are also plenty of options for a quick-service stop to fuel your explorations.
- Albaโs Empanadas: Creator Jah Landis puts his own spin on his mamaโs empanada recipe, best enjoyed with a splash of Jah Mama Sauce for a dose of Caribbean soul. Albaโs is seed oil-free and operates without a traditional dine-in setup, but takeout and delivery are available.
- Calle Taco: Street tacos are always a good idea. The quaint Nashville location boasts excellent food, tequila, and service, but the steak fajitas, shrimp tacos, and al pastor are truly divine!
- E+ROSE Wellness Cafe: Ideal for a nutritious energy boost, E+ROSE offers healthy lunch options like salads, superfood bowls, and picture-perfect layered toasts, plus a selection of smoothies and fresh juices.
- Five Daughters Bakery: Another beloved Nashville staple, Five Daughters is located near Icon and Neighbors in The Gulch. In addition to seasonal flavors and mini donut options, this location also offers cookies, pastries, and coffee.

- LadyBird Taco: Specializing in breakfast and lunch tacos, LadyBird has modeled its menu after Austin, Texasโs taco scene. Treat yourself to house-made tortillas, queso, salsa, and salads made from fresh ingredients, alongside full barista service all day. Plus, enjoy one hour of parking validation when you park in the Gulch Union deck.
- PopUp Bagels: Founded by Adam Goldberg in Westport, CT, this local sensation has grown into a celebrated name, earning acclaim from bagel lovers and industry experts alike and expanding nationwide. Youโll have to try the unmistakably perfect bagels yourself to see what the hype is all about. Weโre told the lines move fast, as hot bagels are baked throughout the day to ensure each one reaches your hand fresh, warm, and ready to enjoy.
- Tazikiโs: With several locations across Nashville, Tazikiโs offers a super-fresh menu of Mediterranean-inspired options like gyros, Greek salads, skewers, and more.
- Turnip Truck: More than just a grocery store. The hot bar, salad bar, juice bar, and deli provide options for any meal of the day.
- Van Leeuwen Ice Cream: Van Leeuwen was founded on the belief that happiness is healthiness, inspiring ice cream with simple, high-quality ingredients. What began as a scoop truck in New York City now serves its full lineup of classic and vegan flavors in Nashville.
WHERE TO DRINK: COFFEE, COCKTAILS & MORE
Whether youโre starting your day with coffee or ending it with rooftop cocktails, The Gulch has you covered.
- Barista Parlor: While Barista Parlor has a few locations around town, The Gulch is home to a standout spot inside the W Nashville hotel. This buzzing coffee shop is well-loved (and well-โgrammed) for a reason.
- COMING SOON โ Butterfly: Located on the 13th floor of W Nashville, Butterfly will feature sweeping, nearly 360-degree views of the city, a curated selection of agave spirits, and light bites. It will be a go-to cocktail lounge and premier rooftop destination, set in a high-energy atmosphere.
- Cafรฉ Between: This all-day cafรฉ serves everything from morning coffee to late-night cocktails. It also offers a full-service restaurant and a grab-and-go counter.
- Golden Sound: Housed in a former recording studio of the same name, Golden Sound has been reimagined as a trendy cocktail bar. Now, guests can create new memories in the spirit of the musicians who once gathered there, perhaps with a Golden Draft Espresso Martini in hand.
- Hoppinโ Gulch: This locally owned and operated self-pour taproom offers a rotating selection of craft beer, wine, cocktails, and duckpin bowling โ all in a laid-back space designed for gathering.
- Hops + Crafts: A local favorite spot, Hops + Crafts features 36 taps of local and regional beers and a menu of shareable snacks.
- Kettner Coffee: This playful coffee brand is located inside Jade & Clover Nashville. Stop in and grab a coffee, matcha, or pastry while you shop.
- Killebrew: Located on the main floor of the Thompson Hotel, Killebrew serves Revelator coffee, pastries by Chef Lisa Marie White, and a selection of grab-and-go items.
- L.A. Jackson: On the rooftop floor of the Thompson, youโll find L.A. Jackson, a beloved rooftop bar with indoor and outdoor space. It also offers a delicious brunch menu, so plan to enjoy skyline views with your mimosa.
- Loveโs Alibi: This cocktail-forward neighborhood bar is soaked in a soft neon glow and vibrant energy. Created by the crew behind Barrel Proof, Loveโs Alibi is the next chapter in what neighborhood bars can be: playful, design-forward, and full of heart.
- Marble Fox Brewing Company: With a robust lineup of IPAs, lighter brews, and rich stouts, this brewery gives you every reason to return for more. Sample a variety of styles in the taproom and discover your next favorite pour.
- The Patterson House: The Patterson House joins The Catbird Seat atop the Bill Voorhees Building in an exciting new chapter. A pioneer in shaping Nashvilleโs cocktail culture for more than 16 years, this iconic spot shows no signs of slowing down.

- Prickly Pear Coffee Co.: Tucked inside Albion in the Gulch, Prickly Pear Coffee Co.โs charming lounge is the perfect spot to unwind. With beans roasted locally in Gallatin and Cookeville, TN, this shop is committed to delivering sustainable, community-driven coffee.
- SunLife Organics: Serving juices, smoothies, and aรงaรญ bowls, each visit here offers more than just a treat โ itโs an experience. Stop by and enjoy the very best of what Mother Nature has to offer.
- Tin Cup Coffee Co.: This local favorite began as a web design and digital marketing agency โ Horton Groupโs best-kept secret. Soon enough, Tin Cup made a name for itself by brewing epic coffee and crafting signature lattes. Later, it expanded to its current location in The Gulch.
- Up Rooftop Lounge: On top of the Fairfield Inn and Suites, check out Up, another rooftop bar with gorgeous views. Sip a cocktail and watch the sun set over Nashville.
- Vuiโs Juice Cafe: Another juice spot, Vuiโs is relatively new to The Gulch. Enjoy a selection of fresh juices, superfood smoothies, coffee and tea, wellness shots, and all-day breakfast and lunch.
WHERE TO LISTEN TO LIVE MUSIC
Of course, it wouldnโt be Music City without a few live music options at every turn. While there are always opportunities to catch live tunes around town, The Gulch offers its own unique venues.
- Cannery Hall: On the edge of The Gulch, Cannery Hall is an event venue that hosts an eclectic mix of live performances. Thereโs something for everyone, from raves and concerts to podcast tapings and cowboy burlesque. Check the calendar to see whatโs next!
- Casa de Montecristo: This is the ideal spot to light up a premium stogie and mingle with other cigar enthusiasts. It has a full bar and live music performances every Thursday night.
- Rudyโs Jazz Room: Step out for a night of authentic jazz. Rudyโs Jazz Room has tunes seven nights a week, along with delicious drinks and bites to accompany them.
- Station Inn: Americana, country, and bluegrass music rule Station Inn. We suggest attending a Bluegrass Jam, where musicians circle up and play together, often improvising with stunning results.

WHERE TO SHOP
The Gulch offers a variety of retail options โ from high-end and trendy clothing to vintage guitars and treats for your pup. With so much to explore, everyone in your group is sure to find something to take home.
- Anthropologie: The Gulch is home to one of two Anthropologie locations in Nashville. Known as a unique full-lifestyle shopping destination, it offers an exclusive assortment of womenโs clothing, shoes, accessories, beauty products, furniture, home decor, garden items, bridal items, and more.
- Aviator Nation: The 1970s-inspired California lifestyle brand has made its way to The Gulch. Shop handmade, perfectly distressed hoodies and sweatpants, and donโt miss the exclusive Nashville tee to commemorate your visit.
- Blush: A trendy womenโs boutique, Blush offers stylish clothing and accessories at an affordable price point.
- Canine Concepts: Donโt forget your furry friend on your next shopping spree! Locally owned, this pet store offers premium small-batch food, plus treats, toys, and accessories.
- Carter Vintage Guitars: Carter Vintage Guitars might just be Nashvilleโs friendliest guitar shop. Itโs a neat place to stop in, even if youโre not in the market for a new guitar.
- Design Within Reach: Shop 24 fully decorated rooms inside this modern interior design studio.
- e.Allen: From classic little black dresses to on-trend accessories, this is our one-stop shop for building a versatile wardrobe.

- Finnleys: This is a great spot to grab Nashville trip souvenirs โ or, if youโre local, to score a sweatshirt with some hometown pride.
- Jade & Clover: This plant bar doubles as a carefully curated lifestyle shop, offering handmade, eco-conscious gifts, clothing, jewelry, and more. Pick up a small keepsake for a friend or book the plant bar experience with your loved ones and take home a succulent, houseplant, or cactus of your choosing.
- Kittenish: Jessie James Deckerโs shop reflects her style โ chic, fun, trendy, and functional. It also sells swimwear!
- Lucchese: Handcrafted and luxurious, Lucchese boots and accessories are special. Step into this flagship store and see the brandโs incredible craftsmanship.
- Lululemon: A perfect fit for young professional residents of The Gulch and tourists alike, Lululemon offers high-end athletic wear for both men and women.
- Nashville Boot Co.: This locally owned and operated boot store is an authentic piece of Nashville. It promises the best prices on name-brand boots, such as Lucchese, Dingo, and Ariat.
- Paddywax Candle Bar: At Paddywax, you can purchase high-quality, ready-made candles or join a candle-pouring workshop and make your own. The shop also offers at-home pouring kits and candle subscriptions.
- Parish: Country music star stylist Claudia Robertson Fowler opened Parish to bring upscale womenโs clothing to The Gulch. Find designer denim and statement-making accessories inside.
- Patagonia: Browse a wide selection of Patagonia clothing, gear, and accessories at this Gulch location.
- Q Clothier & Rye 51: A dual-concept store, Q Clothier & Rye 51 offers both custom and ready-to-wear menswear, with options such as personalized pockets, monograms, cuffs, and more.
- Rustler Hat Co.: Guests can schedule custom fittings for a hat that perfectly suits them, then customize it with a combination of accessories to make it uniquely theirs. (SB Tip: You can also book private experiences for groups of five or more!)
- Uncommon James: Founded by reality TV favorite Kristin Cavallari, this jewelry shop features sophisticated and simple pieces. Youโll also find home accessories and apparel.
- Urban Outfitters: Clothing, accessories, home decor, gifts, and more fill Urban Outfitters, located in the heart of The Gulch.
- Winky Lux: Winky Lux is a cruelty-free, paraben-free cosmetic brand pop-up shop. More than a store, Winky Lux offers photo opportunities around every corner.
WHERE TO PAMPER
Itโs easy to get caught up trying to experience everything this neighborhood offers. But if you find a free moment, take some time to pamper yourself at one of the many nearby spots designed to help you look and feel your best.
- Blowout Co.: For your next big event or a special night out, book a blowout at Blowout Co. This one-stop shop also offers makeup application services.
- Brazilian Wax Studio: This studio offers top-quality, all-natural waxes at an affordable price.
- FACE FOUNDRIร: FACE FOUNDRIร offers a full range of services, including lashes, brows, skincare, and of course, facials. Whether youโre breaking up a busy day or unwinding during a hectic trip, a visit here will surely leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
- The Gulch Nail Bar: Visit this chic, full-service salon and treat yourself to a little luxury with a manicure and pedicure.
- OVME: For a natural, glowing you, indulge in self-care at OVME! Services include facials, hydration therapy, and more.

- Scoutโs Barbershop: Scoutโs Barbershop offers haircuts and color services for men, women, and kids in a welcoming, stylish space youโll want to linger in. Come thirsty and enjoy a locally brewed craft beer from New Heights Brewing Company or a Waterloo Sparkling Water if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.
- VSL Nail Spa: Another go-to spot for manis and pedis in The Gulch, VSL is known for creatively designed nails by some of the cityโs most in-demand artists. Enjoy validated parking while youโre here, and leave feeling just a little extra fabulous.
WHERE TO SWEAT
In The Gulch, youโre as likely to spot a crew in workout gear as a group in cowboy boots. However you like to move, this neighborhood has you covered.
- Barryโs: A high-intensity interval workout alternating between treadmill and floor work with weights and bands, Barryโs promises a challenging โ yet rewarding โ group class experience.
- Pure Barre: This total-body workout is low-impact and uses thoughtful isometric movements to deliver results.

- Pure Sweat Sauna Studio: Your go-to spot for health, healing, and relaxation, this sauna studio features state-of-the-art infrared technology and Nashvilleโs premier contrast therapy suite with a cold plunge.
- Pvolve: This science-backed, low-impact workout combines functional fitness with resistance equipment to help you break a sweat without breaking your body. In a clean, state-of-the-art studio, experience sculpting workouts that tone muscles, boost energy, and keep you coming back for more.
- Rumble Boxing: Rumble promises a 45-minute, high-energy workout set to custom hip-hop and house mashups, led by talented fitness instructors acting as DJs and motivational speakers throughout the experience.
- SHED Group Fitness: SHED Group Fitness classes focus on a different muscle group each day and lead you through a handful of workout stations, each lasting a few minutes.
- [solidcore]: [solidcore] brings high-intensity, low-impact workouts to The Gulch with custom reformer machines. Through slow, controlled movements that push your muscles to the brink, this strength-training studio is all about building a stronger, more sculpted you.
- Studio Fire Nashville: Studio Fire Fitness offers six different class concepts, allowing you to choose your own journey (including hot mat classes, beat-driven sculpt, and heart-centered recovery, to name a few). They also host private events, perfect for a bachelorette party or corporate function.
- TruMav Fitness: TruMavโs signature programming is a challenging, boot-camp-style, high-intensity training class. We recommend the introductory-level class TRUFIT, as it incorporates all aspects of a TRUMAV workout.
Happy exploring!
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Addy Crosby
Originally from Lakeland, FL, Addy Crosby is a Florida State University alumna (Go Noles!) who now resides in Nashville, TN. When sheโs not writing for StyleBlueprint, Addy loves time outdoors, exploring the local craft beer scene, and spending time with friends. Addy also regularly writes for the Development and Alumni Relations department at Vanderbilt University and has been a published writer since her freshman year of college, thanks to her involvement in various campus publications.
