Local’s Guide to East Nashville
Posted by Jenni Barnett on Friday, September 14th, 2018 at 8:47am.
East Nashville is one of the most vibrant communities in Nashville, with colorful shops, locally owned restaurants, and a unique sense of community that residents are proud of. Located conveniently across the Cumberland River from downtown Nashville, it’s a great place for growing families, professionals moving to Nashville, and those that have called Nashville home for their entire lives. Read more below, or watch our Local’s Guide video for a quick review of the area!
Known as one of the hippest communities in town, East Nashville certainly has its own identity. A focus has been placed on high quality, unique businesses, and creativity is encouraged. Regularly changing murals cover the walls of brick buildings that have been a part of the city for generations and new shops and restaurants are constantly popping up, offering locals something different to see each time they stroll through town.
Foodies from all over Middle Tennessee make regular pilgrimages to East Nashville for the wide variety of delicious restaurants. You’ll find a line out the door at the Pharmacy Burger Parlor and Beer Garden nearly every time you visit, and Pepperfire is making a name for itself for its hot chicken in the hot chicken capital of the world. Rosepepper Cantina not only offers great Mexican food, but locals love their witty sign which changes frequently.
The area also has a good handle on the craft beer scene that has exploded in Nashville and is home to several great breweries including East Nashville Beer Works, Southern Grist Brewing, and Smith and Lentz Brewing, all of which have taprooms for visitors to sample.
The community puts on several events each year that draw large crowds from around town including the Hot Chicken Festival each 4th of July and the Tomato Art Festival which closes out each summer. The Grassy Knoll movie nights are another great family-friendly event that brings the community together on warm summer nights.
Being a stones-throw away from downtown Nashville, East Nashville has also made a name for itself because of its distinct music venues. Small venues such as the 5 Spot and the Basement East draw both up and comers and big names from all genres.
The area’s homes also have a ton of character, with everything from small renovated bungalows to large, historic Victorians that have been impeccably maintained. Each home has its own personality, just like the residents that call East Nashville home.
If you’re looking for a welcoming community to call your own, spend a day in East Nashville. There’s a lot to see and do, and we’re betting you’ll want to stay a while.
LOCAL RESTAURANTS
This Greenwood grill dispenses medicine for the soul through their amazing patties that suit every palate. As if the burgers weren’t good enough, people can’t stop talking about the variety of throwback sodas and the spectacular beer garden that makes any warm summer night even better.
Since opening in 2001, Rosepepper has established itself as Nashville’s leading tequila bar and restaurant. Specializing in Sonoran Style Mexican cuisine, they offer an eclectic menu and a unique vibe and atmosphere. With a full bar and over 80 varieties of tequila, it’s the ideal jumpstart for a night on the town!
This authentic Mexican street eat might be a hole-in-the-wall, but it’s famed locally for out-of-this-world tacos, tortilla soup, and tamales. Followers of this eatery brave lines out of the door and battle for seating, but according to locals, it’s all part of the experience!
THINGS TO DO
Whether you’re alone with a book or want a comfortable, fun, no-pressure environment for a large group, the Smith & Lentz taproom is welcoming to all. Having a small brewing system that’s supported by an army of fermenters allows Smith & Lentz to provide an extremely dynamic selection of beer. Every time you visit, there will most likely be a new beer for you to try!
This easy-going hangout offers pub grub, beer on tap, and an array of nightly live music! Their concert calendar can be found here.
This East Nashville bar is for everyone who’s human! Whether you’re there to enjoy one of their signature cocktails, listen to live music, sing karaoke, flex your brain at trivia, relax on the patio, dance, hang out with friends, celebrate a special occasion, throw darts, enjoy a meal or just to walk on the wild side, we’re sure you’ll have a great experience.
SCHOOLS
Residents have the option of sending their children to any of the Metro Nashville Public Schools. Enjoy quality education close to home!
- Private Schools
Residents of this area are central to many private education options! Among the many nearby, Montessori East and the Episcopal School of Nashville!
See More in Our Local’s Guide Series!
