ncluding apartments in neighborhoods such as 8th South, Melrose, Berry Hill, Hillsboro Village, Belmont University, and Belcourt
12 South is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Nashville for locals and tourists alike. You can almost always find anything you need in the few blocks it inhabits. But the best part – it’s an incredibly beautiful area. Imagine a fully-walkable street lined with thriving small businesses, tons of murals, and a huge park at the end. Now surround it with quaint homes and top notch landscaping. That’s 12 South in a nutshell.
Most people who have visited Nashville know about a few prominent stops on the block: Draper James, White’s Mercantile, Frothy Monkey, and Amelia’s Flower Truck. But what they don’t know is that there are several hidden gems that the locals love to visit as much as possible. If you’re looking for some eats, you have endless options! Head to Burger Up, 12 South Taproom, or Mafiaoza’s Pizza and Pub for a good carbo-load or stop into Epice for some delicious Lebanese Cuisine. Need a good brunch spot? Josephine has you covered! And last but definitely not least… Nothing can beat tacos and tequila, right? Bartaco and Taqueria Del Sol will quickly become one of your regular spots. Are you a lover of dumplings and shaved iced? If your answer is yes, Locust is the spot for you. It’s a trendy newcomer to the neighborhood and was even named one of Vogue’s 2020 Most Anticipated restaurants.
If you’re a fashion lover, there are three very important letters that you need to remember: UAL. If you’re curious, it stands for “United Apparel Liquidators…” but all you really need to know is that it’s a magical place full of discounted designers. I repeat… DISCOUNTED DESIGNER! Is there anything better? I think not. If that’s not your thing, don’t worry – you’ve got plenty of options! Imogene and Willie designs and sells their own denim styles for both men and women, all out of an old service station. Vinnie Louise has adorable pieces for year-round style. Crue is your one stop shop for all things premium athleisure. If you’re looking for something unique, elevated, or that perfect look for that event coming up – Hero, Moda, and Emerson Grace have you covered!
Sounds pretty great, huh? And you haven’t even heard the best part! First of all, the 12 South Farmers market can’t be beat. It’s a weekly treat that runs from May-October down at Sevier Park. Find local vendors selling everything from produce to CBD to popcorn. It’s pup friendly with tons of grass, family friendly with children’s activities, hungry friendly with food truck pop-ups, and workout friendly with weekly free workouts hosted by Outdoor Voices. Probably the most charming things about the neighborhood are the seasonal, outdoor pop-ups. During the spring and summer you can find a great selection of plants, a pumpkin patch in the fall, and even Christmas trees in December! Hot tip: be sure to stop by at the end of the season for major discounts.
You’ll be happy to know there are some other great neighborhoods right next door! Just four blocks over is 8th Avenue South or “Melrose”, which has plenty of appeal on it’s own. If you’re a sports lover, ML Rose is the perfect spot to sit at the bar and watch a game – all while enjoying a delicious burger and beer! Even better, they have 2-for-1 mimosas until 2pm on the weekends. If bottomless mimosas are more your speed, head right across the street to the Bluegrass Brunch at The Sutler Saloon. Of course, that’s not all they have to offer! After you enjoy a delicious boozy brunch while listening to live music, be sure to return for their Happy Hour on weekdays from 3-7pm where you’ll get 1/2 off cocktails, draft beer, and wine. Oh, and by the way… they have over 90 different bourbons and whiskeys available.
Right below The Sutler Saloon lies a hidden gem where locals love to drink beer and shoot some pool. Melrose Billiard Parlor first opened its doors in 1944 and still holds it’s original vintage vibe. It’s also about as divey as a dive bar can get. Cheap beer, games, and a little classic Nashville charm? We’re there. Just a very short walk to the other end of that building is Sinema. Seriously, you can’t miss it. It still holds all the appeal of its original inhabitant from back in the 1940s, the Melrose Theater. Theater… Sinema… See what they did there? What’s not to love? You can enjoy their contemporary take on American cuisine for lunch, dinner, or brunch, or stop in for happy hour four days a week.
Just a quick five minute drive away is Hillsboro Village, which is almost a “mini” 12 South. You’ll see tons of great shopping options like Posh, REVV, Molly Green, and – wait for it… another UAL! Regardless of your personal style, your fashion needs will be met and exceeded. Once you’re done shopping, be sure to grab a bite at one of the amazing restaurants. If you’re looking for a good burger, cold beer, or an alcoholic milkshake (yes, you read that correctly), Hopdoddy Burger Bar is always a popular go-to. They also have a great veggie burger, which is never easy to find.
If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, Taco Mama has your back. Affordable, fast, and delicious. All of that and a great margarita… we’re sold. The Villager Tavern, Bar Moxy, and Double Dogs are a few other local faves. As far as brunch, your options are limitless. Fido, Ruby Sunshine, and the infamous Pancake Pantry will never do you wrong. Just a few blocks away is the best bagel in town, Proper Bagel. You might want to order ahead because that place is always poppin’.
Looking for a challenging but gentle workout? The Pilates Garage is right around the corner. We love a female owned, local business and this one fits the bill! Perhaps the most charming member of the Hillsboro Village community is The Belcourt Theatre. A non-profit film center preserved to perfection. It originally opened in 1925 and today focuses on education through their programming.
All of these lively neighborhoods are very conveniently located surrounding one of Nashville’s most notable colleges, Belmont University. Students love to live right around campus so they can enjoy the walkability that 12 South, Melrose, and Hillsboro Village have to offer.