A Local’s Guide To The Coolest Spots in East Nashville, Tennessee
With eclectic venues, unique restaurants, historic homes, and walkable neighborhoods, Music City’s East Nashville region is a known favorite among creatives, locals, and 20-somethings looking to go beyond Broadway’s neon lights to find a good time. The area is home to nearly 30,000 Nashvillians and Nashville’s oldest suburb, it’s residential history juxtaposed by trendy establishments and hidden gems. Just across the Cumberland River from downtown, the eastern part of the city gives locals and visitors the opportunity to see and experience Nashville in a totally different light. There are truly too many cool, quirky places to list, but there are some incredible front runners to help get you started if you’re looking to explore parts of the city that are slightly off the beaten tourist’s path. Without further ado, here is your local guide to spending a full and fabulous day in East Nashville.
Coffee & Brunch
Nashville, Tennessee is no stranger to a good cup of coffee. Located in East Nashville, there’s some key players in the latte landscape, with an added bonus of great breakfast or brunch menu items, perfect to help you rise and shine as you begin your day.
Ugly Mugs is the East Nashville sister of Nashville’s Retrograde Coffee, a cafe and wholesale coffee roasting company whose small-batch products can be found in restaurants, bars, and cafes in the area. They serve locally roasted coffee, tea, and made from scratch sourdough bagels. Ugly Mugs is a community-minded place to gather and they often host live music events, namely their signature jazz brunches. Their menu includes hot and cold breakfast favorites, pastries, and specialty beverages. Ugly Mugs is open Monday-Friday from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Address: 1886 Eastland Avenue, Nashville, TN 37206
Elegy Coffee is a sleek, moody coffee shop with 3 locations across Nashville (Germantown, downtown, and East). The original shop is located in East Nashville, and offers a curated menu, wholesale coffee, and featured merchandise. Unique coffee flavors include guava coconut, burnt honey, black cocoa, honey bear cold brew, and more. Some featured food options include customizable breakfast sandwiches, burritos, Taiyaki bites, pastries, and more. They’re open daily from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. Address: 2909 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216
Hanna Bee Coffee is a family-owned, local coffee shop committed to eco-friendly practices, crafted beverages, and a vibrant environment. The shop was founded by former Top 40 radio host Hanna Bee Tucker and her husband Ken Tribbett in 2020. Some of their specialty coffee flavors include a cookie monster cold brew, a nutella latte, pistachio espresso, and a house-made chocolate ganache + caramel drink dubbed the “cowgirl latte.” Food options include build your own sandwiches, breakfast tacos (with a vegan option), fig jam grilled cheese, a strawberry banana granola bowl, and more. They’re open from 7-5 p.m. (kitchen closes at 4:45). Hanna Bee’s also has a mobile coffee + tea cart, Gold Bar, available for event booking. Address: 1035 W Eastland Avenue Unit 1045, Nashville, TN 37206
Sky Blue Cafe is a welcoming, home-style East Nashville cafe that puts a fresh spin on comfort food. A staple in the Historic Edgefield area since 2010, the restaurant prides itself on a well-loved menu and friendly staff. Alongside merchandise and some retail coffee options, Sky Blue Cafe beverages include custom coffee blends, high garden tea, fresh juices, an elderberry shot, kombucha, and more. Classic breakfast and lunch favorites include pancakes, omelets, biscuits and gravy, sandwiches, and bowls. The cafe is open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Address: 700 Fatherland Street, Nashville, TN 37206
Afternoon Entertainment
There are a variety of entertainment opportunities in East Nashville, should you want to spend the afternoon killing time in between enjoying the incredible restaurant and bar scene.
Eastside Bowl is a one-stop shop for entertainment in East Nashville. The retro bowling alley also serves as a diner, billiards parlor, lounge, and a music venue. Regularly hosted live events include Honkey Tonk Tuesdays, vintage/ flea markets, full venue shows, and much more. And, of course, bowling. Eastside Bowl is considered to be one of the most unique bowling alleys in the world. It’s 16-lane, eclectically decorated, vintage-inspired alley speaks for itself. The alley also offers HyperBowling, a technology-enhanced game that combines pinball and bowling, complete with LED lights and a reactive bumper that helps navigate the ball. Eastside Bowl is open 7 days a week: 4-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. Fridays, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. Saturdays, and 12-11 p.m. Sundays. Address: 1508A Gallatin Pike South, Nashville, TN 37115
Shelby Park and Bottoms is the 3rd largest park in the city, and East Nashville’s premier nature preserve, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature, community, and recreation. At nearly 1300 acres, there is plenty of space to enjoy Nashville’s natural landscape. In the early 20th century the large greenspace was originally opened as a private residential amusement park. In 1912 it became a designated public space. Today, the park includes hiking trails, a community center, a nature center, a golf course, and sports fields. Notably, the greenway offers over 5 miles of paved, accessible trails for running, walking, and biking and over 5 miles of primitive hiking trails. Nature Center Address: 1900 Davidson Street, Nashville, TN 37206
Black Shag Vintage is a rockstar’s paradise. The vintage clothing store was established in 2016 and is carefully curated by owner Tommy Daley. Located in a historic fire station in East Nashville, Black Shag Vintage is fully stocked with men’s and women’s fashion, vinyl, and truly unique finds. A renowned pit stop for the coolest in vintage fashion and concert tees, the shop has famously added to the closets of some top musicians (Miley Cyrus, Hayley Williams, and Drake to name drop a few). The shop has also been featured in several publications and television programs. You can visit the shop for yourself Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 12-5 p.m. Address: 1220 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206
Grimey’s is a recognizable Nashville spot selling new & pre-loved music and books. The independent record store has been around since 1999 and is famous among music lovers. The shop is housed in a distinct, East Nashville spot: a former church that still boasts stained glass windows and wooden beamed ceilings. The building is also made recognizable by its lively outdoor murals. Alongside a collected inventory of curated records, books, CDs, and merchandise, Grimey’s is known for hosting local, live music and other star-studded events. The shop is open Tuesday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 12-5 p.m. Address: 1060 East Trinity Lane Nashville, TN 37216
+ Specialty Shopping in East Nashville
The Shoppes at Fatherland, or The Fatherland District in East Nashville is a great stop for unique gifts and one-of-a-kind finds. Some local stores in this area include Gift Horse art store, Tenn Galloon Hat Nashville gift shop, Rusty Rats Antique & Vintage, Daydream Records, Mourning Brew spooky gifts, Ellie Monster Western and vintage inspired clothing, Adobe Mercantile, Konadu self care products, Pauli’s Place Boutique, Nancybgood accessories, and more. The district also has food options, so you could spend the whole day! Address: 129 South 11th Street, Nashville, TN 37206
Five Points Alley Shops in the Five Points neighborhood is another great one-stop-shop to find clothing, goods, and gifts from locally owned and operated businesses. Alley shops include Defunct Books, Raven & Whale Art Gallery, Rerun vintage boutique, Black Dog Beads, The Goodbuy Girls vintage cowgirl boots, Alegria Fine Leathers, Gifts, Art & Accessories, Fairytales Bookstore, Three Wolves Trading Post, and sustainable bulk product store The Good Fill. Address: 272 Broadmoor Drive, Nashville, TN 37207
Lunch & Dinner
There’s something for every pallet in Nashville, and the East side of the city in particular specializes in fun, internationally- inspired spots to get a bite to eat, whether you’re grabbing lunch or are in desperate need of a late night dinner spot.
Redheaded Stranger is a neighborhood taco shop in East Nashville, specializing in Southwestern inspired cuisine, fresh tacos, homemade tortillas, brisket, and more. Named after the Willie Nelson album of the same name, the restaurant opened in 2019 and has since become a reputable name in Nashville’s culinary scene. Keep in mind that Redheaded Stranger doesn’t take reservations and they don’t serve chips and salsa. The shop is open for indoor and outdoor dining from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays. Address: 305 Arrington Street, Nashville, TN 37207
Hawkers Asian Street Food is a casual restaurant chain committed to incredible food, drink, and atmosphere. Started by 4 best friends in Orlando, Florida, Hawkers specializes in Asian dishes, specifically street food inspired by vendors in Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and beyond. Much of the menu, including rice plates, bao buns, and more are served as small, sharable plates. Hawkers East Nashville is the only location in Tennessee, and is a fun, delicious stop for fans of Asian food. They’re open Sunday-Wednesday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., Thursday-Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Saturdays 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. Address: 626 A Main Street, Nashville, TN 37206
Greko Greek Street Food is a family-owned restaurant that serves Greek cuisine, paying homage to the recipes of the owners grandmother, Yia-Yia. The menu directly reflects the culinary products of the family’s home village of Nemea, Greece, with homemade pitas, fresh produce, live-fire cooked meats and seafood, and olive oil and wines directly imported from Nemea. Dishes, available for dine-in, online order, and catering include Greek street food staples like souvlakia skewers, loaded street fries, bowls, and more. The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Address: 704 Main Street, Nashville, TN 37206
Bad Idea is a cozy, chic wine bar and restaurant in East Nashville. Located in a renovated church, the atmosphere is warm and elegant, and a fantastic spot to spend the evening. The layout includes a main dining room, 2 private dining rooms, bar seating, and a comfortable lounge area. Founded by a highly-qualified sommelier, Bad Idea boasts an impressive wine collection, with no less than 3,000 bottles stored in their custom, on-site wine cellar at any given time. To pair with some incredible pours, the restaurant also serves Lao-inspired small plates and shareable main courses, including Nam Khao Croquettes, caviar, and more. The restaurant and wine bar is open 7 days a week from 5 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Late night eats are available from 10 p.m. to 12 a.m. every night. Address: 1021 Russell Street Suite 101, Nashville, Tennessee 37206
Music Venues
A curated day in Nashville would not be complete without adding some live music in the mix. East Nashville has an incredible independent music scene, and great opportunities to catch up-and-coming and seasoned artists in intimate and beloved venues.
The Basement East is the eastern counterpart of the famous Nashville venue The Basement, located on 8th Avenue South. As the largest venue on the East side of the city, The Basement East (lovingly referred to as “The Beast”) has a storied reputation among music fans, hosting acts such as Cage the Elephant, Alice Cooper, Chris Stapleton, and many, many more. Check out their upcoming events here. Address: 917 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206
Cobra Nashville is a bar and venue located in the heart of East Nashville. With a full bar and food menu, Cobra is a great place to grab a drink, a bite to eat, and see live entertainment that includes music, comedy, and more. The bar is open daily from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m. and the music venue opens 30 minutes before any given show. Check out upcoming showtimes here. 18+ Address: 2511 Gallatin Avenue, Nashville, TN 37206
The East Room is a laid-back, live music and comedy venue that regularly features rock bands, dance parties, comedy nights, and more entertainment. The intimate space is a great spot to see both touring shows and up-and-coming local talent. Every second Saturday of the month, The East Room hosts a monthly dance night. Shows typically begin at 8 p.m.; a free comedy open mic takes place every Tuesday at 8 p.m. Find upcoming events and ticket links here. 18+ Address: 2412 Gallatin Avenue, Nashville, TN
The 5 Spot is a relaxed, local venue serving snacks and a full bar menu alongside live music events. Regular shows and hang out opportunities at The 5 Spot include happy hour shows, dance parties, and regularly hosted local talent. As a resource for musicians, the venue also has a daytime sound stage studio available for booking. Keep an eye out for upcoming events here. 21 + Address: 1006 Forest Avenue, Nashville, TN 37206
Bars & Speakeasies
East Nashville is a great place for a night out, especially if you’re looking for stylish ambiance and a little more elbow room than you’ll find downtown. Bonus points: it’s not difficult to find free street parking in this area of the city.
Urban Cowboy is a boutique hotel located in an 1800s era Victorian mansion. Attached to the hotel, which houses 8 suites, is 2 bars: the Urban Cowboy Parlor Wine Bar, which hosts nightly live music for guests, and The Public House, a “bar out back” in the mansion carriage house. The Public House has a large patio and is a popular spot among locals, serving up incredible cocktails and great food (most notably Roberta’s Brooklyn-style pizza). The Public House Bar is open 4-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. Fridays, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. Saturdays, and 12-11 p.m. Sundays. Address :103 North 16th Street, Nashville, TN 37206
Coral Club is one of Nashville’s newest cocktail clubs, opened in East Nashville in May of 2024. The coastal-inspired, oasis of a bar has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with an interior reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast, complete with a stone bar and an open-air rooftop. Coral Club offers a selection of house and standard cocktails, beer, wine, and zero-proof beverages. Their small plates include black truffle popcorn, an olive & almond snack mix, Iberico Salamé, and more. They’re open 7 days a week from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Address: 608 Gallatin Avenue, Suite 207, Nashville, TN 37206
Tiger Bar is a moody, 1930’s circus sideshow inspired gin join. You read that right. The ambiance is unparalleled, complete with low lighting and whimsical decor. The bar specializes in martini’s, sparkling wines, 1930’s era cocktails, gin, and cognac. They also serve small shareable plates like charcuterie boards, steamed mussels, shoestring fries, and more. They’re open Sunday-Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. and Thursday-Saturday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Address: 2909 Gallatin Pike Suite B, Nashville, TN 37216
Rosemary & Beauty Queen is a great spot to go out if you’re looking for a lively night out in East. The restaurant and bar is located inside a converted, historic home and garage (the Beauty Queen portion of the bar), connected by patio seating. The vintage decor is matched with 3 full-service bars, a neon-lit atmosphere, and a rooftop with swings and cabana seating. Alongside their cocktails, wine, canned beverages, and zero-proof drinks, Rosemary & Beauty Queen has burgers and hot dogs and an extensive happy hour. The bar is open Monday-Friday from 5 p.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 2 a.m. Address: 1102 Forrest Avenue, Nashville TN 37206
Out On The Town
Being so close to Music City has its perks. If you’re looking to explore the city beyond the Honkey Tonks, East Nashville is the untapped gem that you’re looking for. For some daytime exploration of the city, you can also check out The Gulch and 12 South neighborhoods for some great, family-friendly shopping and dining options. If you live here in Williamson County, you’re practically a Nashville native. Whenever you venture up I-65, having these cool, unique stops in your back pocket is a great way to exercise your local knowledge!
