A Local’s Guide to East Nashville
Last Updated: 7/1/24
East Nashville is one of Nashville’s coolest neighborhoods (and one of its largest because the area is actually made up of a number of smaller neighborhoods). As a local and an East Nashville resident, I’ve put together a list of all the coolest spots and things to do in East Nashville.
There’s so much in the neighborhood that it would be impossible to do everything, but this should help you get started! Make sure to check out my East Nashville bucket list while you’re here.
Things to Do
East Nashville Farmers’ Market
Nashville has lots of great farmers markets, but the East Nashville one is absolutely one of the best. Besides the normal fruit, vegetables, and herbs you expect, there are also lots of great prepared food options. Even when I can’t go, I still check their Instagram page to see what went on because it always looks so fun.
The East Nashville Farmers Market takes place on Tuesday afternoons in the spring, summer, and fall at 5th and Woodland. It’s a great way to support local businesses! See my full guide to the East Nashville Farmers’ Market here.
Shelby Bottoms Nature Center and Greenway
The Shelby Bottoms Greenway is made up of 950 acres that’s home to local flora and fauna. There are miles of paved pathways, a children’s play area, and the Nature Center, which offers all kinds of cool programs.
It’s packed basically every single weekend that the weather is decent. It’s amazing that this area exists so close to Downtown Nashville. At the very least, you should make your way to the Hidden Pond (it’s on the map) and try to spot some beavers.
Restaurants
Five Points Pizza
Five Points Pizza is such a staple in East Nashville that it almost feels silly to mention them. The location in Five Points sells pizza by the slice or by the whole pie, and the weekday lunch special is one of the best deals in Nashville. See my full review of Five Points Pizza here.
Folk
Folk is one of the best neighborhood upscale restaurants. The menu rotates seasonally, and you’ll always find delicious pizzas to try. It feels relaxed and welcoming rather than stuffy or pretentious. Plus, the prices are decent, too, especially compared to other fine dining options around the city.
You’ll probably need reservations to get in, but sometimes you can get a table last minute. I love this restaurant so much that I almost want to keep it a secret. It really is too good not to share though.
Redheaded Stranger
It would be a surprise if you haven’t already come across Redheaded Stranger on social media already. The southwestern-inspired eatery is very Instagram-friendly. Unfortunately, this means that there’s almost always a line outside, but the tacos are worth it (and so are the frozen drinks).
We are sometimes able to avoid the crowds by going to grab an afternoon snack (tatchos!) instead of getting a full meal here, so that’s a good option, too. See my full review of Redheaded Stranger here.
Spicy Boy’s
Spicy Boy’s is a Cajun restaurant that serves up delicious New Orleans-style food. In fact, it’s so authentic that half the staff is gone during Mardi Gras to party it up further south. I absolutely recommend the poboys here. See my full review of Spicy Boy’s here.
Audrey
Audrey is one of Sean Brock’s newest restaurants in Nashville. It actually isn’t my favorite fine dining spot in Nashville because it’s just so pricey. However, it is absolutely a unique dining experience, and people come from all over to try it!
If you’re a serious foodie or if you are looking for a spot to celebrate a special occasion, Audrey is a great choice.
Peninsula
Peninsula is one of the best restaurants in all of Nashville. The small, intimate spot serves delicious dishes inspired by the Iberian Peninsula. It’s the perfect spot for special occasions.
Joyland
Joyland is a much more affordable spot directed by Sean Brock. It’s a casual burger joint that produces absolutely perfect burgers. I honestly think these might be the best burgers in all of Nashville. See my full review of Joyland here.
Coffee Shops
Hanna Bee
Hanna Bee is an adorable coffee shop that does really great seasonal drinks. It’s a great spot for meeting up with friends because it’s so cute. But, I also like it for bringing a laptop and getting some work done. Plus, it’s located right next door to a bookstore, so there’s really nothing else more you could want. See my full review of Hanna Bee here.
All People Coffee
All People Coffee might have the best atmosphere out of all the coffee shops in Nashville. It really feels like a local spot because you’ll see people from the neighborhood walking there. I like this as a spot to work because there are always so many other people there working that it helps you stay focused. See my full review of All People Coffee here.
Flora + Fauna
Flora + Fauna is a cute, plant-filled cafe located in Highland Yards. While it’s a great place to grab coffee, the menu here is also really good. I’d definitely suggest this as a spot to meet up with friends or a place to read a book. See my full review of Flora + Fauna here.
Bakeries
East Park Donuts
For from-scratch donuts with outstanding flavors, East Park Donuts is the place to go. This is definitely not a chain donut shop. The donuts are so substantial, and there are vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, and keto options. See my full review of East Park Donuts here.
Donut Distillery
As you can imagine from the name, Donut Distillery serves up boozy donut flavors plus drinks. The flights are very popular with bachelorette parties, but there are non-alcoholic options here, too. I actually don’t care that much for the boozy flavors, but I’m in the minority on that preference.
Yeast Nashville
Yeast Nashville is a bakery that’s most famous for its kolaches – both the traditional Czech-style and Texas-inspired ones. Personally, I love their cinnamon rolls. Either way, East Nashville loves this bakery – the stream of customers never stops. See my full review of Yeast Nashville here.
Shopping
Grimey’s
Nashville is known for its music, so you won’t be surprised to find cool record shops – like Grimey’s. This independent record store sells both new and used vinyl, cassettes, CDs, and more. You’ll also find a selection of books downstairs! See my full guide to Grimey’s here.
Bookshop Nashville
The Bookshop Nashville is an adorable, tiny bookshop with a carefully curated selection of awesome books. It’s impossible to leave without running across something you’re interested in. See my full guide to The Bookshop here.
The Getalong
The Getalong is a cute little space selling a mix of home goods, children’s items, and gifts. It’s so much fun to browse, but the Getalong is more than just a shop. The space hosts all kinds of events and activities from children’s music classes to art classes for adults.
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Thanks for reading my guide to East Nashville! If you’re looking for even more spots to check out in Nashville, I’ve linked some other great ones below