12 South Nashville Neighborhood Guide

Dine and Drink at Restaurants and Bars

Edley’s Bar-B-Que

12 South Nashville is known for good times, good people and good eats. One place that the locals swear by is Edley’s Bar-B-Que. From brisket to chicken, pork and ribs, all of Edley’s meats are smoked low and slow (some for up to 10 hours).

If you’re up for big portions of Nashville-style barbecue as you’re exploring the 12 South neighborhood in Nashville, order a plate with all the fixings at Edley’s Bar-B-Que. With fresh, traditional Southern sides made daily and a variety of meats available straight from the smoker, you won’t know where to start when you sit down to dig in.

Urban Grub

Nashville is one of Tennessee’s most popular restaurant destinations. With casual eats to upscale options and everything in between, any foodie will find a new favorite in Nashville. One of the many delicious options in the area is 12 South Nashville’s Urban Grub, a rustic spot known for its Southern staples, raw bar and variety of seafood.

Urban Grub prides itself on being a fish pit and Southern cantina. Guests write to the folks back home about the shrimp and grits with smoked gouda and pack the peanut butter cheesecake dessert to go. Book a table and make the most of the menu next time you’re visiting the 12 South neighborhood in Nashville.

Frothy Monkey 12 South

Coffee lovers, unite! If you’re reaching for your mug the moment you roll out of bed, the Frothy Monkey in the 12 South neighborhood in Nashville is the perfect pick-me-up. The all-day cafe is open 7 a.m.–8 p.m. daily. Inside, you’ll find a bakery, seasonal menus and brunch available until 5 p.m.

Are you more of a night owl who likes to toast to the end of the day with a glass of wine? Frothy Monkey’s got you covered. In addition to locally roasted blends, they also have Wine Down Wednesdays to help get you through the week.

Places to Visit Nearby

Radnor Lake State Park

Your conductors with Old Town Trolley – Nashville will be keen to tell you all about the natural wonders of Tennessee’s state parks. There are over 50 state parks in Tennessee, but the site that captures the hearts of Nashville locals and visitors is Radnor Lake State Park. Scenic from beginning to end, every inch of the 1,368-acre park boasts a radiant, lush beauty. Over 300 species of wildlife call the natural oasis home, and more than one million visitors make their way to the park each year.

This outdoor adventure sits just outside of 12 South Nashville. This is a spot dog owners will love. The Otter Creek Road Trail is a designated path for pets, jogging and biking, perfect for getting some fresh air with your pup. Whether you explore with your dog or hiking buddies, you’ll love having Radnor Lake State Park’s views, ranger-led programs and soothing lake right in the heart of Nashville.

Ellington Agricultural Center

The Ellington Agricultural Center is home to the core of all things agriculture in the state of Tennessee. As the headquarters for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, the 207-acre center includes the Tennessee Agricultural Museum, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, an arboretum and a garden.

A short drive from the 12 South neighborhood in Nashville, the grounds are a beautiful place to visit at the peak of each season. In fall, a sheet of copper leaves coats the ground. And in spring, the park is in full bloom. You’ll find yourself planning your next walk back on the trail as you journey back home to 12 South Nashville.

Governor’s Mansion in Oak Hill

You’ll ooh and ahh over Tennessee’s Executive Residence. Since 1949, the abode has served as the official governor’s home. As of 2022, 10 governors and their loved ones have called the mansion their own. Its sprawling 10 acres feature a garden, arboretum and impressive pool.

A tour of the mansion adds a historic touch to the activities in and around the 12 South neighborhood in Nashville. Tour season begins in mid-March and lasts through mid-November. So, if you’re looking for something to do for a spring break trip or summer afternoon, a walk through the governor’s mansion in Oak Hill is sure to fit the bill.

West End and Elliston Place

There’s a uniqueness to every nook, cranny and corner of the areas surrounding 12 South Nashville. One of our personal favorites at Old Town Trolley – Nashville is West End. With landmark locations, such as Vanderbilt University and Centennial Park in its midst, you’ll come to recognize the community’s charm right away.

If you keep exploring, you’ll soon come upon Elliston Place. You’ll find yourself with plenty to eat, drink and listen to nearby. Elliston is known as the birthplace of some of Nashville’s famous rock clubs. In the 80s, the “Rock Block” earned its music-inspired namesake; today, it plays on loud and clear.

Berry Hill

Berry Hill is a relaxed Tennessee city considered to be a district neighborhood of Nashville. A bit quieter than some of the other communities near 12 South Nashville, its close-knit vibes will have visitors feeling at home in no time. Don’t let the cozy feels fool you, this little city is in a class of its own.

A handful of Nashville’s musical talent lives in the comforts of Berry Hill. In addition to music artists and composers, if you went shop to shop, you’d be pleased to stumble upon eclectic boutiques, mom-and-pop eateries, and even a few recording studios. Get closer to the tunes of Tennessee in one of the most musical parts of the 12 South neighborhood in Nashville.

FAQs

What is the hippest neighborhood in Nashville?

If you’re one to march to the beat of your own drum, no worries — Nashville is totally cool with the quirkily crazy. One-of-a-kind experiences that you can’t find anywhere else are always ready for you in 12 South Nashville, one of the area’s best neighborhoods.

We get it. You’re looking for a neighborhood that’s chill enough to have a local bakery and laid-back coffeehouse on every avenue, cultured enough for highly rated restaurants and hip enough for a walkable bar or two. Residents of the 12 South neighborhood in Nashville and its surrounding areas are lucky to have the best of every side of the city within steps.

What neighborhood in Nashville has all the bars?

Downtown Nashville is known for its nightlife, and with nightlife comes the city’s top bars and lounges. If you’re planning to be in the 12 South Nashville area, you’re just minutes away from the downtown scene. As you barhop, you’ll see many other groups doing the same — from bachelorette parties to spring breakers. Live music fills the streets from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m. on Nashville’s Honky Tonk Highway, so you and your crew can keep dancing long after the sun goes down. Every night is a good night when it starts in the 12 South neighborhood in Nashville.