Welcome to Nashville: Alyssa Rosenheck's Must See Spots For Music City Visitors

I recently caught up on some trash tv (yes, I can grow roots on the couch with the best of them) to see an infamous group of Jersey house wives grace Music City. However, I was disappointed and found myself yelling at the TV - “This isn’t Nashville”, “Who picked these places”, “The producers missed the mark” and “Where are all the small businesses”. I see this often when shows are taking the televised trip to the South and I would like to make this easier for everyone to ensure an authentic local experience.

I have updated my Nashville list for you. This doesn’t include everything and it is not supposed to - however, this list is filled with my personal favorites in a city that forever has my heart. We are a city celebrating creativity, community and growth while maintaining a small town personality. Nashville is where I grew into a full hearted woman, found my creative voice, while becoming my own healer and leader in this world.

I hope you love and care for our magical city along with the artists that give our streets it’s heart beat. Have fun and explore with deep curiosity - we are so much more than a televised cruise ship parked on broadway with flashing florescent lights. We are a city filled with heart, innovation and dreamers taking risks - Welcome to Nashville. Xx

To Shop

1. Eneby Home - This is a family owned operation that curates some of the most beautiful weathered and worn objects from around the world. This is my go to for vintage chairs, art, concrete and marble tables. If you are searching for your home or your next project - it is definitely worth an appointment. They also show in Round Top, Texas and at The Antiques and Garden show.

2. Gas Lamp Antiques & GasLamp Too — A massive antique mall spread across two large buildings where you can listen to 50’s and 60’s rock and roll as you shop...Each one is filled with fine antiques and furniture, home decor, vintage jewelry, books, lamps and so much more. If you have time to kill or it is a rainy day in town - these halls are worth a slow stroll.

3. City Farmhouse - Kim is a dear friend and fellow author (we share the same publisher). Her antique filled spot is located in historic downtown Franklin and worth the scenic drive. Kim and her husband David are some of the best pickers in the country (with notable clients such as Sheryl Crow and many more) and has a serious eye for antiques you will want in your home.

4. Preservation Station - when walking in you will find dedicated spaces filled with salvaged claw foot tubs, doors, chandeliers and anything to bring your “picking” passions to life.

5. The Golden Slipper - This darling little spot is everything a boutique experience should be - kind and appealing to all the senses. Abby and her husband hand pour the best smelling candles in town. You will also find signed copies of my book there. Xx

6. Brooke Worthington Jewelry - Brooke is the national go to for repurposing all your “hand me down” pieces of jewelry. She has a beautiful selection of the daintiest pieces for everyday wear but her repurposing is truly a gift for the pieces that need a little extra love.

7. Apple and Oak - If you need a witty gift, a card that will create a belly laugh, or a stunning rug worth framing Allison’s shop is for you!

8. Yearly Company - I love it when women create businesses from their personal family traditions. Anne did this and for those generational milestones - her bangles are the number one go to timestamp priceless memories.

9. Emerson Grace - I always hop in here for her collection of Ulla Johnson and such a great spot to find the perfect party dress.

10. White’s Mercantile - From a converted gas station in 12th south to the perfect spot for a hostess gift - this is my go to in town for a quick thank you treat. We also through an epic birthday bash for The New Southern for the neighborhood with all the visuals here. Xx

11. Imogene Willie - Worth the investment and experience for a pair of blue jean babies that will last a life time. I kicked off my book tour in a pair of these beauties.

12. Amelias Flower Truck - You will find Amelia’s flower truck floating around 12th south filled with fresh blooms or her flagship store at the L&L market building.

13. The Barefoot Cottage - a sweet lifestyle boutique where you can find a little something for all the loves in your life including your home.

14. Draper James - Filled with strong southern charm and a line wrapped around the corner for one of the most instagramable walls in Nashville.

15. H. Audrey - For all things Zimmerman and Janessa Leon - This Hill Center spot is worth the parking.

16. Skin Pharm - If you are in town for a getaway or a girls trip - this is a great space for the ultimate glow up. Facials and all serums included. Maegan has a fabulous space and the kindest team.

17. Sarah Flint - I recently celebrated Sarah coming to town with her grand opening on the second floor of The Green Hills Mall. For timeless style and unrivaled quality, her shoes will having a growing presence in my closet. Save some room in your luggage for here beauties HERE.

18. Seasonal + worth the calendar effort: Porter Flea, Antiques & Garden Show, TN Peach Festival

To Brunch + Lunch

1. The Roze Pony - I normally do casual breakfast or lunch meetings here. The vibe is chill, chic, and I always order the pancake soufflé to split for the table! Worth every bite.

2. Proper Bagel — A taste of NY in the heart of Belmont. This is our our weekend spot for an everything breakfast bagel and a black and white cookie to go!

3. Fenwicks 300 - The best french toast in town. You will find me in a baseball cap, yoga pants and with my brilliant attorney during the mornings fueling up for the week ahead.

4. The Food Company - The best little hidden lunch treasure in town. The southwest turkey salad with extra croutons and avocado is a must!!! Take it to go or sit outside and enjoy their garden patio.

5. The Pink Hermit or High Tea in the Veranda at the Hermitage Hotel - If you are looking for a fun spot for the women in your life - this is a darling destination. The cafe serves pastries, lunch and wine or you can have a true southern tea experience that will make any moment memorable under hand painted clouds in the Veranda. I also encourage you asking about the history of the space.

6. Chaatable - Maneet is a dear friend and truly changing the culinary landscape in town - if you want to experience Indian street food, this is your Pani Puri party spot!!

7. Josephine - You will find me bellied up to the bar with black coffee and their homemade cinnamon sugar bite sized donuts. I personally can’t think of a better way to start off the weekend. Reservations suggested!

To Dine

1. City House — If given the choice, this would be my go-to for every meal, hands down! I love the deconstructed aesthetic for a casual yet intimate night out. Their menu changes seasonally but a few staples to try are the Frico and Bellyham Pizza (no egg for me). This is a menu I trust and love to explore because you can taste the talent behind the food with James Beard Award winner - Tandy Wilson leading the way. I also love how unpretentious this spot is - its all about good food and good people.

2. Epice — If you want to be transported to the Mediterranean without ever leaving the deep south, this is your spot! The food is fresh and healthy which is all I really need to fuel me up. Concrete walls, honed marble surfaces, raw and untouched wood...the visual aesthetics speak to my heart and make it easy to gravitate towards. Which is why I love lunch dates here. The setting is intimate and the perfect spot to connect to those around you.

3. Kayne Prime - Have I told you how much I love popovers…. it is an aggressive obsession. I am normally bellied up to the bar in the back of the restaurant with a glass of their Austin Hope Cab, popovers, a petit filet and an order of their mac and cheese with jalapeños - it doesn’t get any better than this in my opinion. I like to go early for a less ‘see and be seen vibe”.

4. Cafe Roze - This is an eastside staple with some of the best fries in the south. Go out on a limb and order the Chili eggplant and be prepared to be delightfully surprised.

5. 5th and Taylor - This is my go to for larger parties. The space is anchored by 100’s of candles and their sausage cheddar biscuits are a must. I love the juxtaposition of this space being more industrial paired with the warmth of a family style evening meal.

6. RH Cafe - Before Soho House opened, this was and still is the spot for a great glass of Daou Rose with one of the best burgers in town. Be prepared to be transported out of Nashville when you sit underneath a light filled atrium dreaming of your favorite California coast. Tip - ask to be seated away from the fountain unless you want an occasional splash.

7. Cafe Nonna - The ONLY Italian restaurant in my opinion for pasta. It is small, hot and worth the trip to Sylvan park. Try the seafood angelina with red sauce. You can also make your own pasta combinations and the angel hair, bolognese with ricotta is also a favorite.

To Socialize

1. Bastion — This Houston Station watering hole always reminds me of a little Brooklyn bar and is about as unpretentious as it gets. I roll in with jeans and a white-tee, craving nachos and a beer with a wicked game of ring toss.

2. Never Never - A former welding shop steps away from Bastion is another casual and cool summer hot spot.

3. Soho House - Nashville is now home to the largest house in North America. Members only, but worth it for meetings, pool hangs and the easiest reservation in town. Our location also has one of the most beautiful gyms in all the land - hello to sunrise yoga and sound baths on the terrace (hotel guests have access to all the amenities).

4. Proof at the W Hotel - I personally love the views here. You will hardly catch me out late at night but I love to schedule an early happy hour at this spot before it fills up.

5. Rare Bird — Perched up on top of the cute, upscale boutique hotel, Noelle, is this chic rooftop lounge with unbeatable views of downtown. There’s a fine attention to design which makes it easy on the eyes and ideal for pretty cocktails or catching up with old friends!!

6. The Patterson House — A nashville speakeasy staple and a must for all mixologist lovers.

7. LA Jackson Bar - another little swanky rooftop in the heart of the gulch. I am a fan of the Thompson hotel brand and this is always a fun spot.

8. The Twelve Thirty Club - If you are willing to brave the broadway crowd’s - then Justin Timberlake’s bar needs to be on your list.

9. Station Inn, The Stage, Robert’s + Tootsie’s - If you are visiting Nashville for the first time, The Station Inn is the mother church of bluegrass and worth checking out. The rest are a few fun honkey tonks where even the locals frequent.

10. Collective 615 - Whether you are in town for the weekend or live here full time, popping into Nashville’s first women only co working space will give you the extra boost you need to keep moving in the direction of your dreams.

To Sweat

1. Fahrenheit Yoga Studio - Give me a case of the Mondays and a candle lit studio to shavasana it out! One of my favorite music city studios.

2. Radnor Lake - A safe haven for wildlife and a preserved ecosystem around a lake. This is a hidden gem 8 miles from downtown. Dogs, bikes and jogging are prohibited on the internal trails to prevent disrupting the sensitivity of the state park.

3. Percy Warner Park — Y’all! This pretty park is the perfect place to break away from your phone for an hour or two and be one with nature (and the concrete steps) that will whip your tush into shape. There are 3 equally beautiful trails to choose from which all vary in length (from 2.5 miles to 6+) depending on the route you want to take.

4. Dry Bar Nashville - For a post sweat BLOWOUT head to my dear friend Bonnie’s locally owned and operated Dry Bar!! Bonnie and her team will have your locks up and running in no time with a little soulful inspiration free of charge! She is the best!

To See

1. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens - If you combined a 55 acre estate from the 1930’s with a world class art museum and a botanical gardens to inspire the senses - you have one of Nashville’s many jewels for a solo date or a family friendly afternoon. I highly recommend an afternoon or sunset stroll here.

2. Hatch Show Print - I highly recommend the tour to soak in 140 + years in business of custom prints and event posters. This is a cool way to get a taste of music city history.

3. Ryman Auditorium - This historic location is the mother church of country music. It started out as a church in the 1800’s, transitioned into the original home of the Grand Ole Opry to now being a springboard to soon to be music legends with the best acoustics in town.

4. Station Inn - If you want a smaller and much more intimate venue filled with history and the world’s best bluegrass - this is the spot for you.

5. Country Music Hall of Fame - Home to one of the world’s most extensive music collections.

6. Predator’s , Sound’s, Titans, Nashville SC - For all things sports, beer and grunting.

7. David Lusk Gallery - David has one of the largest contemporary collections showcasing notable and new names in the art community. His space is also beautiful and right around the corner from Soho House and Bastion. Xx

8. Broadway + Printer’s Alley - Get your boots, boosters and cowboy hats ready!! The honky-tonks are a must if you’re a newbie to Nashville. Any night downtown is sure to ENTERTAIN. My favorite staples where you will find a mix of tourists and locals - Tootsies, The Stage, Roberts Western World, Merchants (get the tater tots please) , and Paradise Park.

9. The Girls of Nashville - Celebrating a full community of female singer songwriters! The Nashville rounds are corralled by a dynamic trio: Caitlyn Smith, Heather Morgan, and Maggie Chapman. They have been featured in Time magazine and People to name a few and is worth adding their events to your calendar. I guarantee you will leave feeling more inspired and community driven after any of their rounds.

To Sleep

1. 1 Hotel Nashville - I love this spa and hotel so much that I personally do staycations at this location. If you are in Nashville for business, the vibe will give you the peace and tranquility needed to support a constructive trip. You can look through a recent staycation HERE.

2. Four Seasons - Always a gold standard choice if you are wanting to stay and play downtown.

3. Soho House - Nashville is home to the largest house in North America. You don’t have to be a member to book one of the 47 hotel rooms and when you are a guest, you have access to all the creative spaces members fully enjoy. P.S. - One of my favorite gyms in the city and I may see you there. Xx

4. Thompson Nashville - It’s always clean, chic and gives a boutique feel. This is a prime time location in the Gulch steps away from restaurants, music venues and downtown.

5. The Hermitage Hotel - If staying downtown is a must, this landmark hotel needs to be on your list. You will experience both its history, newly renovated hotel rooms and some of the best hospitality in town. I recently photographed the property and have been blown away by the level of detail and attention coming from their passionate team. Also, A selfie in the women’s restroom is a must.

6. W Nashville - Modern, luxe and in the belly of the Gulch!! Also, one of the best roof top views the city has to offer.

7. Conrad Hotel - Brand new and perfect for the business traveler who wants to be a little more midtown with all the amenities.

The New Southern | Alyssa's Local Guide to Nashville

I may not be home in Nashville all that often but when I am...I become torn between cozying up at home with tea in hand and hair in a topknot, or hitting the town with those I love and adore visiting my favorite local spots, the latter always seems to win! While the internet may be plastered with endless lists of things to do, eat and see in this growing city, I am about to let you all in on my tried and true Nashville staples. These are my spots which have been the birthplace of life giving moments, magical encounters, business ideas, collaborations, deep connections, belly laughs...and most of all, so much love. This guide is for all of you. There is something for everyone on this list but most importantly, while navigating the list... and while visiting this city, I hope you all take a moment to look around and find little moments of magic for yourself and let this soulful and creative city guide you. The community and this city for me are pure magic.... 

To Eat

1. City House — If given the choice, this would be my go-to for every meal, hands down! I love the deconstructed environment fit for casual and life giving conversations. It has that local neighborhood vibe that’s just perfect for a business dinner, date night and lots of girls’ nights. You will always find me nestled up at the pizza bar with a good cab and an old friend. Fun fact, chef and Nashville native, Tandy Wilson, won a James Beard Award in 2016 for best chef in the Southeast!

2. Josephine — This is another local favorite and it has launched a thousand ships for me, so to speak...it’s been the birthplace of a beautiful friendships, it has been an incubator for new business ideas and it is one of my all-time favorite neighborhood gems! The intention and consistency is what I love most about the staff and menu. You can find me here on a random evening, endlessly craving more pretzel bread and Brussel sprouts.

3. Epice — If you want to be transported to the Mediterranean without ever leaving the deep south, this is your spot! The food is fresh and healthy which is all I really need to fuel me up. Concrete walls, honed marble surfaces, raw and untouched wood...the visual aesthetics speak to my heart and make it easy to gravitate towards. Which is why I love lunch dates here. The setting is intimate and the perfect spot to connect to those around you.

4. Other notable mentions that are forever in my rotation include: Little Octopus, Rolf and Daughters (order all the pastas and have the bartender make you a South Side), Tánsuŏ (Maneet is a badass), and Cafe Roze.

To Caffeinate

1. Thompson Hotel — There is a very distinct ‘Coffee Shop’ smell in Nashville...it’s a combination of dark roast and burnt toast (if you know, you know!) It’s honestly not my favorite scent to start the morning when I am in town so this beautiful hotel is my number one go-to for a clean cup of coffee and a meeting. I’m able to get in and out, still smelling of my Le Labo Santal 33.

2. Barista Parlor Golden Sound — Chill and quiet between the hours of 7:30 and 10 AM. This is my spot in The Gulch for early morning meetings.

3. Dose — My quick business, catch-up and date spot with the lovely Gen Sohr of Pencil and Paper. It’s where we both become over caffeinated from the day and resort to tea in the afternoon.

4. Proper Bagel — A taste of NY in the heart of Belmont, their vibrant case of bagels, spreads, salads and sweets are to die for, and they’ve got coffee to match.

5. My Kitchen! There’s no better place to enjoy a delicious coffee than right at home. Xx

To Shop

1. H Audrey — Owned by a sweet friend, Mrs. Holly Williams, who is kicking ass and taking names. The shop offers Nashville a consistent selection of items that you just won’t find in department stores. If I am doing a branded shoot or need a last minute special occasion outfit, this is my first stop!

2. Porter Flea — Always in support of  #TheNewSouthern movement, I live for shopping destinations like this cool artisan marketplace! There’s no better way to celebrate local artists and community than by supporting their modern handmade goods.

3. Apple and Oak — This sweet little home goods store is one of my favorite spots to find beautiful pieces for your home, or even a fun little housewarming present! You can find everything from playful decor and vintage furniture to eclectic vintage rugs.

4. Gas Lamp Antiques — A massive antique mall spread across two huge buildings where you can listen to 50’s and 60’s rock and roll as you shop...Each one is filled with fine antiques and furniture, home decor, vintage jewelry, books, lamps and more. As an interior design stylist and someone who loves to layer it up at home, I could spend hours and hours here.

5. Side note...I am not a fashionista and am actually in desperate need of a stylist to pull for some events which I have coming up (HINT HINT) but feel free to shop my creature of Habit Capsule Staples HERE!

6. Other Notable mentions and favorites when I have time: The Perfect Pair In Green Hills for a little shoe love, Lemon Laine in East Nashville for an all natural Beauty makeover... and the store is just as darling as Laura and her fabulous team! White's Mercantile and Draper James on 12th South.. this is my favorite spot for anything housewarming!!

To Sweat

1. Hot Yoga Plus — This studio has the best hot room power flow classes. I am all in for a good sweat and moving meditation (resting is in plank)!!

2. Core Power — This yoga studio is opening up soon and it was my all-time favorite when I was living in Chicago, so as you can imagine, I’m excited!

3. Percy Warner Park — Y’all! This pretty park is the perfect place to break away from your phone for an hour or two and be one with nature (and the concrete steps) that will whip your tush into shape. There are 3 equally beautiful trails to choose from which all vary in length (from 2.5 miles to 6+) depending on the route you want to take.

To Socialize

1. Bastion — This super casual spot is a local Nashville hang. A visit here means being in the company of musicians, creative entrepreneurs and everything in between. The best part? This establishment is about as unpretentious as it gets. I roll in with jeans and my staple white-tee, craving nachos and a beer with a wicked game of ring toss. Being here often makes me forget that I am in Nashville because it reminds me so much of a local neighborhood bar that you would find in Brooklyn. Xx

2. Rare Bird — Perched up on top of the cute, upscale boutique hotel, Noelle, is this chic rooftop lounge with unbeatable views of downtown. There’s a fine attention to design which makes it easy on the eyes and ideal for pretty cocktails or catching up with old friends!! We recently monopolized the bar  to celebrate my girlfriends (#boss) newest single... Your Hurricane!! Customer Service at its finest Whoop Whoop! 

3. L27 Rooftop — Another one of my favorite rooftop hangs for a quick glass of wine and literally one of the prettiest places to watch the sunset. The space was brought back to life with the talented design duo, Pierce and Ward. If you can, head to the second floor of the bar and stake your claim on a cloud couch... this paired with good conversation is a perfect evening in my book!

4. Patterson House — Do you want to know where the coziest speakeasy is in Nashville?? It is here. This is as mellow as it gets with the best attention to service and detail. I can safely say... they make the best drinks in Nashville and not to mention a killer tatortot for some of those late night last call evenings. 

5. Geist  — There’s no better way to describe this spot than charming, really truly charming! Which is exactly why I love hanging out with friends here! The building is one of the city’s most historic...what used to be an old blacksmith shop is now a sophisticated, cozy bar (and outdoor champagne garden) decorated with handcrafted pieces which were commissioned by local artists! There are definitely some major New Southern vibes happening here!