"Excellent barbecue isn’t exactly hard to find around Nashville. And while we’re certainly not experts in the delicate art of stoking a smoker—or the exact subtleties of West Tennessee-style hogs—we are expert eaters and Peg Leg Porker does not disappoint. Open since 2013 and helmed by pitmaster Carey Bringle, this joint draws a loyal and hungry crowd day in day out craving those heavy platters of fork-tender brisket, mouthwatering pulled pork, and of course, amazing sides."

"“This is my favorite place for flower deliveries,” Aldridge says. Owners Alex Vaughan and Quinn Kiesow’s space in East Nashville is filled with arrangements that include bunches of wildflowers and romantic combinations of blush- and peach-colored roses and dahlias. There are also shelves filled with potted greens, succulents, and terrariums that make great gifts. "

"Brisket tacos, perfectly smoked ribs, and the burnt-ends platter with cornbread and a side of grits casserole are what keep regulars coming back to this 12South spot. The cocktails are stellar, too—the Bitter Goat is a refreshing lime and ginger beer concoction—and the atmosphere is always buzzing and friendly. There are enough veggie sides to ensure the non-meat-eaters don’t go hungry, and Edley’s is famous for its desserts, like the chocolate fudge pie and banana pudding. For those who can't make it to 12South, there are two other locations in Sylvan Park and East Nashville. "

"This gift shop (at the Noelle) is “a great place to find a curated collection of local products and gifts,” says Aldridge. Inside the pretty store you'll find a tightly edited selection of painted ceramics, jewelry, bags, and clean beauty products and hosts various pop-up events throughout the year. "

"We come to Henrietta Red as much for the surroundings as the food. It’s an immensely pretty dining room, spacious, flooded with natural light, and accented with tons of natural wood and beautifully designed contemporary furniture. But it’s also casual—a neighborhood spot in the middle of historic Germantown, with a homey, welcoming feel. Chef Julia Sullivan (she’s worked at Blue Hill at Stone Barns and Per Se) serves up food that’s both comforting and surprising (wood-fired bread slathered in anchovy butter; squash gratin with feta, lemon, and basil; mussels with saffron cream, mustard seed, fennel, and herbs), and the raw bar is possibly the best you’ll find in Nashville."

"Chef Sean Brock grew up foraging, pickling, and preserving the South’s produce since childhood. His restaurant, Husk, captures that passion for the region and its food in dishes that are familiar (to Southerners, at least) and comforting: country ham with cheddar biscuits and pickles; shrimp and grits, hearth-fired cornbread; oyster stew with celery root. The menu changes constantly, but you get the idea. Every ingredient is grown in the South. And we are totally enamored with the setting: an 1870’s Victorian home. "

"Our favorite breakfast spot in the city is found in East Nashville, at Café Roze. Grab a seat at the long marble bar and settle in for a crazy good avocado shake (made with kale, banana, almond milk, and bee pollen) before a bowl of savory oats, served with a poached egg, mustard greens, and roasted shiitake mushrooms. The space itself is light-filled and cheerful, and it’s an ideal place to start the day. "

"If nothing else, come here for the Redneck Taco. It’s famous in Nashville—and not just for the controversial name. It’s not so much a taco as a heaping pile of brisket, sausage, pulled pork, fried catfish (whatever you like) and coleslaw on top of a cornbread “hoe-cake.” We’ve never seen anything like it. There are long communal tables, and the huge space has a rustic cabin feel (plus dartboards and Ping-Pong tables), so it’s ideal for large groups and families. "

"Bastion is the place to head when you can’t decide between a really fun bar, or a really great restaurant. That’s because it offers both, separated by a sliding door that creates two distinct spaces. Start in the bar with one of their specialty cocktails (we’d go for the Rosemallow Daisy, made with tequila, lime, and hibiscus), and follow it with the five-course tasting menu in the 24-seat restaurant. Helmed by chef Josh Habiger, it’s hard to predict what you’ll get, but part of the joy of a meal here is seeing your dinner prepared in the open kitchen, just beyond where you’re sitting. "

"Chef Philip Krajeck (of Rolf & Daughters) opened Folk earlier this year in McFerrin Park, an up-and-coming area of East Nashville that’s currently booming. First impressions are striking, with an interior that features custom artwork from local artists Alex Lockwood and Paul Collins, exposed brick walls, and plenty of light wood accents and potted greenery for that indoor-outdoor effect. As for the food, you can’t go wrong with one of the wood-fired pizzas, which are topped with ingredients like kale, fermented potato, pickled chilis, and preserved peppers. "

"There was a little bit of a local panic when beloved East Nashville dive bar Dino's changed hands in 2015, as locals feared the ages-old joint would lose its original charm. But the revamp (besides making the bathrooms significantly nicer) hasn't changed much at all. The brick facade and Coca-Cola sign on the exterior are still intact, as is the casual menu and the famous, classic diner burger. As always, the menu is cheap and the bar is beer-only."

"Another institution, the Loveless has been around since the 1950s when it began as a motel. Refurbished and expanded in 2004, it is now a restaurant. GP had dinner here, and the food was delicious. The supper platters (grilled catfish, fried chicken, homemade meatloaf) are served with hot biscuits and sides like turnip greens and creamy coleslaw. "

"In a former mechanic’s garage in the Gulch neighborhood, this five-room gem revolves around Southern hospitality. The vibe—super comfortable but not overbearing as there’s no formal concierge or room service—is more like a well-appointed guest house rather than a traditional hotel. The rooms (some have spiral staircases leading to additional loft spaces) are decked out in Sferra linens, Malin + Goetz toiletries, and Turkish towels; the communal lounge area features vintage furniture and work from local artists. Sister restaurant the 404 Kitchen is just across the street."

"Though this Downtown property is part of the massive Omni Hotel family (great if you’re traveling with kids and need all the comforts of a corporate-y resort, such as a pool, on-site restaurants, and a spa), it goes to great lengths to embrace the rich history of the city. For one, the hotel is within shouting distance of the Music City Center and attached to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum."

"This is the swankiest hotel in town and drips in old-world charm. The food at Capitol Grille (not to be confused with the the Capital Grille chain) is pretty traditional, but it’s fun just for the atmosphere. Be sure to check out the gorgeous Art Deco men’s bathroom that women are allowed to peek into, and the Oak Bar, which features an extensive whiskey collection. "

"Historically, Downtown Nashville is the farthest thing from a gourmet destination, but Southernaire Market is looking to change all that. This elevated grocery store stocks its shelves with all sorts of artisanal edibles as well as a butcher counter, seafood case, and fresh, locally-sourced produce. Also nice: A small but very good to-go menu (gumbo, salad, panini), and great coffee. "

"Scott Witherow started this chocolate factory in 2009 after three years of gathering machines, cacao beans, and parts from all over the world. The chocolate itself is some of the most flavorful we’ve ever experienced and the combinations are amazing. The day we were there, Scott was excited about a new variety he’d made with Dominican beans. It was really unusual and the cacao itself had a fruity taste. The cinnamon chili chocolate is the best interpretation we’ve tried of Mexican chocolate and beware of the espresso chocolate—delicious, but one piece is like a potent doppio espresso. Each wrapper’s design, is, like the chocolate inside, exquisite. "

"Drew is the man behind the brews at the best coffee shops and restaurants in Nashville. A quirky character and a true craftsman (he lives in an ex-motorcyle gang meeting place that he is rehabbing); he hand roasts his famous coffee beans and writes each label himself."

"A one-stop shop for all your organic groceries, as well as a great salad and soup bar, smoothies and juices (and we love that they keep bees on the rooftop). The staff of hipsters here are always friendly and happy to help. There's a second location in the Gulch. "

"A sister to Margot Café and Bar, this European-style eatery serves locally-sourced breads and pastries, seasonal tartines, crepes, and croque madame sandwiches. The seating area is spacious, airy, and light-filled; and looks like a great place to get some work done or enjoy coffee with your friends."

"Always bustling with students, freelancers, and passersbys, this cozy shop sprawls through asmall house including a porch, which is lovely in the summer. Come early for coffee, workthrough the afternoon and finish the day with their stellar dinner options. There are several other locations throughout the city, including Downtown and the Nations. "

"While in Nashville, GP got her Drews Brews coffee every morning from Ugly Mugs. The space itself is airy and expansive, perfect for a full day of freelancing or reading the Sunday paper sprawled on one of the couches. "

"Bongo Java is another major hangout in Nashville. When we passed by on a sunny day in the winter, there was a crowd sitting at the tables on the front porch, happily chatting the afternoon away. Bongo Java serves a great brunch. GP got their fabulous tofu veggie scramble on several mornings to arm her for a day on the set of Country Strong."

"This requires a long wait, but the fried chicken is worth it. It comes in four levels of hotness—mild to extra-hot—and they don't mess around. One of our team suffered the consequences for the entire evening after. The shack, and yes, it’s a shack, is open late but be prepared to wait up to forty-five minutes for an order since it's all made fresh and comes straight from the teeny kitchen in the back. You can also call and place your order in advance, or visit their second location on Nolensville Pike."

"This was one of Tim McGraw’s recommendations: Swett’s serves Meat & Three, which means it's your choice of meat plus three sides, which could include collard greens, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, apple or peach pie, and more. The fried chicken here is superb…crunchy and not oily on the outside and juicy on the inside. "

"Opened in 1982 and still family-owned, Arnold's is only open for lunch on weekdays, but we heard so much about the fried chicken and Meat & Three options that we paid a visit—it was well worth it for an all-around authentic experience. Their James Beard award for American Classics is well deserved. "

"Get anything and everything done under the sun—Swedish and deep tissue massages, facials, peels, or even a haircut. "

"At Nashville Integrated Medicine, the doctors take a holistic approach to evaluating a person’s health, taking factors like sleep, diet, exercise, and stress into account. "

"Dr. Suman Chaudhuri, who practices holistic chiropractic bodywork, naturopathy, clinical nutrition, energy medicine, and stress management, did wonders for GP when her body was exhausted from long days on set. "

"Leah and Joel Laravell are longtime herb and tea obsessives and the partners behind High Garden Tea. Leah brews her own tonics and tinctures inspired by old Appalachian remedies, and the rustic, cabin-style shop is the kind of place where you want to linger for hours (something the Laravells heartily encourage). Shelves and counters are stocked with herbs, spices, and whole-leaf teas, and everything is sourced from organic and ethically wildcrafted sources. There are also house-made kombucha and cactus kefir available, and the owners host monthly workshops for those looking to learn about herbalism, tinctures, and the simple beauty of a good cup of tea. "

"For a sweet treat in 12South, this new outpost of Christie Cookie’s offers fresh-baked cookies, brownies, and cakes, as well as ice cream sandwiches. We love the integrity with which their goods are made—they don’t use preservatives and use ingredients like chocolate made from sustainably-farmed cocoa beans."

"This tiny restaurant above Patterson House only holds 22 seats, and serves an intimate tasting menu that's given it a reputation that extends far beyond the city of Nashville. The restaurant also acts as a chef incubator, designed to regularly introduce new chefs to the city, and recently anointed executive chef Will Aghajanian and pastry chef Liz Johnson are actually the fourth iteration in the establishment's relatively short history."

"Fresh-tasting Lebanese cuisine is still unfamiliar to a lot of people, and casual Epice (which takes its name from the French word for spice) offers a welcoming way in. Dishes are light and vegetable-heavy—favorites include the lamb shank or the Sayadeya, a lean, spicy filet of fish served with caramelized onions and vermicelli rice. "

"Bartaco also has a few locations in Connecticut, and you can definitely feel the East Coast vibe when you walk inside: The patio is white-washed with blue cushions and accents, and the hanging pendants inside are made from woven baskets. The garage doors separating the patio from the restaurant open wide on warm evenings, where it's nice to bond with their well-tended cocktail list (favorites are the margarita, the mojito, and a bold blend of chorizo spice, reposado, and mezcal called the CLT). If you’re staying to eat, trays of guacamole, salsa, and an assortment of tacos take the stress out of ordering for a crowd. Their outpost in Atlanta is also a favorite. Photos: Chun Yip So"

"Karl and Sarah Worley started Biscuit Love as a food truck (an Airstream they lovingly named Lilly, to be specific), selling their biscuit-based menu at farmers markets around the city. The streamlined yet vintage-inspired design is reminiscent of Lilly, with clean walls and white brick making the open space feel airy and summery, and a marquee sign that says "NASHVILLE" as the focal point. The menu is also largely the same, offering breakfast and brunch all week long and relying heavily on biscuits as a vehicle to deliver everything from homemade jam to hot chicken sandwiches. Other locations include Hillsboro Village and Downtown Franklin. "

"This Mexican joint from M Street is the kind of place where it's easy to camp out at a table and spend the afternoon. You'll find a big, wide patio outside and a ton of seats, meaning they can accommodate big parties even on busy brunch mornings and weekend nights, then the bar starts to heat up. Menu-wise, they're known for excellent brunch-time cocktails, like their Bloody Marias (a ridiculously good Bloody Mary that subs tequila for vodka) and Mexican breakfast classics, like huevos rancheros and smothered breakfast burritos. Don't miss the chips and guac. "

"Smiling Elephant's pad thai definitely gives bigger-city Thai spots a run for their money. The cozy spot operates out of a tiny cottage on 8th Avenue South, with a little stone porch out front for al fresco dining in the summer; it's also owned by the sweetest family imaginable. Pad Thai is the obvious order, but their curries are excellent, as are the spring rolls and the warm, soothing ginger tea."

"This German beer garden in the East Nashville neighborhood quickly became famous for serving some of the best burgers in town, though their brats and sausages are also worth going out of your way for, as they're all ground and made on site. The picnic tables in the back make for a fun communal dinner experience, and the beer list (unsurprisingly) is miles long. Ample greenery and twinkle lights make it an equally enjoyable experience in the evenings."

"As Nashville's first izakaya restaurant, Two Ten Jack (it's named after a Japanese card game) kind of blew everybody's minds when it first opened. The East Nashville spot was opened by Patrick Burke, a restaurant owner who has some experience in this space, as he's also behind The Green Pheasant, which opened in November. The thing to order is definitely chef Jessica Benefield’s homemade ramen, which is so fresh and delicious that they actually won't let you take it home as leftovers. "

"If you've spent any time perusing the website of Reese Witherspoon's quintessentially Southern lifestyle brand, you'll pretty much know what to expect in the store. Located on 12South, a well-known shopping area, it immediately draws you in with blue-and-white-striped awnings and perennially colorful windows. Once you make it through the shiny navy lacquered doors, you'll find bold floral prints, preppy stripes, and cheeky home goods, like their signature "Totes, Y'all" bags. It's the perfect place to pick up Southern-inspired souvenirs for friends or a cute party dress. "

"In the middle of downtown Nashville’s arts district, the polished, mid-century-inspired Fairlane Hotel fits perfectly amid the area’s urban charm. The overall design is striking—original travertine columns, terrazzo floors, and plenty of brass finishes. And guest rooms are pleasantly pared back and uncluttered, with marble bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows that look over the cityscape. Stop by Mile End, an offshoot of the Brooklyn-based deli that serves some of the best bagels and lox in town. Union Teller, meanwhile, is great for a grab-and-go cup of Stumptown coffee and almond croissant. "

"Given our loyalty to nontoxic skin care and makeup, it's only natural that we love a beauty boutique that checks off certain boxes: clean and luxurious products, transparent labeling, and a great overall message. So when Lemon Laine—a modern beauty boutique with an ethos that revolves around natural, effective, and sustainable products—opened in one of our favorite cities, we were instant fans. Owner Laura Lemon brings her decade's worth of beauty industry experience to the shop, in which she stocks some of our favorites, including Kjaer Weis, True Botanicals, and our very own goop skincare. Best yet: The design is clean with bright color—and there's an oil bar where you can mix bespoke beauty formulas to meet your specific skin needs. Photos: Caroline Sharpnack. "

"This 1865 Federal-style brick townhouse (formerly the home of H.H. Wallman, who was a shoemaker to the city’s nineteenth-century elite) was reborn as a ten-suite boutique hotel. It’s a welcome option if your tastes run toward the intimate, historical, and quirky, rather than the modern high-rises that dominate the city’s hotel scene. While the redbrick exterior gives off a sense of quaint formality, inside, it’s a whimsical mix of hot-pink fabrics, abstract-floral drapes, and contemporary art. Although there’s no on-site restaurant, the Germantown location is a big plus: Some of the city’s best restaurants (Henrietta Red, City House) are within walking distance. "

"Part hotel, part contemporary art gallery, 21c Museum Hotel occupies a massive warehouse from 1900 (formerly the headquarters of a wholesale hardware company). The whole art aspect hits you immediately: There’s over 10,500 square feet of exhibition space, filled with rotating shows and installations. Guest rooms are spare but comfortable, each featuring prints from local photographers. Spring for a terrace suite and you get your own (huge) outdoor space, complete with sofas and dining table for alfresco meals. Three of the suites were designed with artists: one by actor Adrian Grenier, another a collaboration between painter Sebastiaan Bremer and musician-composer Josephine Wiggs, and a third by Yung Jake. "

"Nashville’s hip factor reaches new heights at this hotel in the Gulch. The city’s relentlessly cool neighborhood is adjacent to both Music Row and Downtown, and the Thompson’s central location means there’s easy access to landmarks like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the Frist Art Museum. Inside, guest rooms epitomize rustic chic—hardwood floors, repurposed sliding barn doors, and subway-tiled bathrooms give off a Brooklyn-meets-Dixie vibe. And Marsh House draws in the locals with a menu of fried oysters, gumbo, and snapper crudo. "

"Several times a week, the Grand Ole Opry takes place as a showcase of the best country, bluegrass, and folk bands in the country. The night GP caught it on a visit back to the Ryman, she saw the amazing Emmylou Harris, Carrie Underwood, and Vince Gill, just to give you an idea of the kind of all-star casts the Opry always hosts. The entire show is broadcast live on WSM-AM at 7 p.m. and is the longest-running radio show in history. People say the Opry is touristy, and this is true, but it is at the same time absolutely authentic and the quality of the concerts is truly remarkable. "

"The Ernest Tubb Record Shop, with its vast array of bluegrass and classic country music, also hosts a live WSM-AM radio show each Saturday night after the Grand Ole Opry. It airs from the Texas Troubadour Theatre in Music Valley and was established in 1947. "

"The Ryman was founded as a church in 1892, which explains the church pew seating. In the mid-twentieth century it came to house the legendary Johnny Cash television show and the weekly Grand Ole Opry concert and radio show, which was broadcast on WSM-AM. The television show is no more, and the Opry has moved to a new home at the Grand Ole Opry House, but the Ryman remains a must-experience concert venue for its spectacular acoustics. Definitely try to get tickets to a show there and skip the daytime museum tour: You can kill two birds with one stone and check out the display cases while you’re at the concert."

"Tim McGraw and Faith Hill’s girls, Gracie, Maggie, and Audrey McGraw, recommended this store to us—it’s a kid’s dream come to life: There are toys crammed in every nook and cranny of this shop. You will find no big-brand toys here—it’s been here forever, full of costumes, books, and wooden toys. Reese Witherspoon used to come here with her grandparents. GP's kids could have spent an entire day in this shop and would get excited at the very mention of the word “Phillip’s.”"

"Although kids will love this museum’s three-floor soft jungle gym (where they can slide, climb, and jump through a model digestive system) and the child-size firemen’s truck and ambulance, adults will get a kick out of it, too. There are exciting, interactive exhibits where you can learn about astronomy, biology, physics, weather, technology, energy, sound, and creativity. Plus, Adventure Science Center is home to the renowned Sudekum Planetarium and is located five minutes from downtown Nashville with a breathtaking view of the city. "

"Here there's storytelling on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, and marionette shows on Fridays and Saturdays. Stories are presented by a cast of wacky characters including the Professor, who not only reads but gets sing-alongs and lots of rainbow drawings going, too. The professionally crafted marionettes at the library are something special, made by a master puppeteer named Tom Tichenor. GP's kids got to see “The Princess and the Frog” but the shows change often and throughout the year. "

"This is a big hit with kids: It's a huge playroom with soft, cushy floors and walls and an enormous “tree house” that kids can climb and crawl through. There’s a dollhouse and train cars that kids can ride, and a section for babies, too. We were amazed by the cleanliness of the place and found the staff really helpful. On Sundays, you can rent the entire tree house out for a birthday party. "

"Gymnastics was the main event in Nashville for GP's kids. They loved every minute of their classes with Gaby and came back asking for more. She is wonderful with children and they are completely entertained from start to finish. You can book private lessons or go to classes with a bunch of other kids."

"Hot chicken is a must in Nashville, and even though they have three locations (Melrose, Midtown, and West Nashville), Hattie B's always has a line out the door and around the corner. If you're patient, it's totally worth the wait for Nashville’s famous hot chicken, which comes in several heat levels: mild, medium, hot, damn-hot, and shut-the-cluck-up. Pro tip: place a pickup order online to skip the line. "

"Between raising a family (they actually do have five daughters) and growing their small business, Five Daughters owners Isaac and Stephanie Meek definitely have their hands full. Isaac comes from a family of bakers—his grandfather baked cakes and his father owned a pizza shop—and he's made this fledgling bakery famous for a 100-layer donut, which tastes like an overly decadent cronut and takes three days to make. Between those magnificent creations and their sister sweets, like paleo donuts (grain, dairy, and sugar-free) and arguably the best cupcakes in town, it's no surprise that they sell out both here and at their Franklin and East Nashville locations, every day."

"It's generally difficult to get good bagels outside New York City, and Nashville was no exception to this rule until Proper Bagel came along in 2017—the bagels consistently garner out-the-door lines. The crisp, black-and-white, subway-tiled space is filled mostly with several large deli counters, where you can order everything from lox to a bacon-egg-and-cheese to a classic bagel with schmear. Bookmark it for hangover days, which are an all-too-common occurrence in this late-night town. "

"These specialty coffee roasters (they roast their own beans in the back of their shop) can be found all over Nashville, but their brick-and-mortar is more than worth a visit. The bright, white-washed cafe is outfitted with free WiFi and the requisite hipster crowd, and there's also a wide front porch that offers an excellent view of the downtown skyline. All of the espresso drinks are excellent, as are the avocado and ricotta toasts. It's a no-brainer if you need a cozy desk to hunker down with your computer for a few hours."

"A paleta is a Mexican version of a popsicle—a sweet, frozen pop made with fresh fruit (and sometimes even with vegetables and nuts). This adorable little shop, which was founded by two sisters who grew up in Mexico, makes them fresh daily with seasonal fruits and vegetables. Unsurprisingly, kids go crazy for these."

"Jack White—of White Stripes fame—initially launched Third Man Records in Detroit. The label moved to Nashville in 2009 and is now a sprawling complex that includes a record store, a distribution center, and a photo studio, as well as the actual offices. Come see a show, or book a tour to learn the ins and outs of the modern music industry."

"This neoclassical stunner looks straight out of the nineteenth century but was actually completed in 2005. And it’s so much more than a typical symphony hall. Aldridge is a fan of the movie nights, where feature films (like Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and Star Wars) are played with a live orchestral accompaniment: “It’s such a magical experience for families to hear the symphony play alongside classic movies,” she says. “We love watching Home Alone at Christmas. It’s fun for both grown-ups and kids.”"

"James Beard-nominated 404 Kitchen is unlike anything else in Nashville. Many consider Matt Bolus one of the best new chefs in town, and the protein-heavy, strictly locally-sourced menu (how local? Herbs come from a garden on the restaurant’s roof) backs up the lofty claim. Don’t miss standout dishes like a Benton’s ham-wrapped trout with salt and vinegar potatoes, the smoked fried chicken, and the creamed kale with lemongrass, fish sauce, and black vinegar. "

"This small-ish, rustic eatery is situated in the hip Germantown area and has all the elements one might expect from a trusty neighborhood spot: Massive communal tables, a well-stocked bar, and exposed brick walls. While chef and owner Philip Krajeck’s menu is loaded with hearty, Mediterranean-inflected comfort food (octopus, pastured chicken with garlic confit, and several kinds of crostini), the specialty here is pasta. From dough to sauce, it’s made entirely from scratch, and runs the gamut from ditalini with maitake mushrooms, black garlic, and white celery, to rigatoni with lamb, peppers, anchovy, and pine nuts. The menu changes frequently but trust us—whatever is on offer will be excellent. "

"Jonathan Waxman named his second restaurant (the first is Barbuto in NYC) after his mom, Adele, whom he credits with turning him onto cooking. The space is simple and clean (like many of its Gulch area neighbors, it was once an auto repair shop), with recycled wood tables, a sprawling open kitchen, and huge garage doors, which are kept open in the warmer months. As far as food goes, expect to find seasonally inspired veggies (shaved zucchini salad, sautéed spinach, and the famous JW potatoes) and wood-oven specialties like crispy trout and NY strip steak. "

"Formerly of Eastland, chef Hal Holden-Bache’s first solo venture lives in an unexpected residential neighborhood in East Nashville—but he still manages to pack the house almost every night. The focus here is Nashville, of course: The fresh produce comes from local farms, and most of the booze and beer is Tennessee-sourced. The menu is packed with hearty, deeply satisfying dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, shepherd’s pie, and the crowd favorite: crispy pig ears. Reservations are highly recommended."

"City House’s rustic Italian-meets-Southern food stands out from that of the rest of the Nashville restaurant scene in that it's a true foodie’s restaurant. Dishes change with the seasons, but local favorites like the Belly Ham Pizza and cornmeal-crusted catfish frequent the menu. Stop by the bar on your way in or out, as the bartenders here know their stuff. "

"This rowdy restaurant serves typical American fare. Get lots of plates to share; the sweet potato fries are delicious, the fried chicken sliders do the trick, and the biscuits might be the best in the entire city of Nashville. Plus, the oysters on the half shell come with a shot of Bloody Mary. What more could you ask for? Just be sure to bring an Alka-Seltzer."

"A daily-changing menu of French and Italian dishes comes out of this restaurant in East Nashville where the emphasis is always on local and seasonal ingredients. It’s one of the pioneers of the neighborhood and helped to put East Nashville on the culinary map. The cocktails change with the seasons, as well, and are worth a stop in themselves. "

"The crew from Country Strong kept raving about Noshville, a New York style deli. While GP never made it there, it's supposed to be the place for brunch, with a particularly standout veggie burger. "

"Here’s a real old-fashioned speakeasy, where getting into the bar requires some work and house rules dictate you must stay seated once in. It’s well worth it. The prim and proper mixologists, in their old-fashioned uniforms, make miracles happen with the ingredients."

"MEEL is a local twist on the classic Blue Apron–style concept—subscribers have ingredients for two meals delivered to their doors weekly, with easy instructions for cooking. And it might be even better, since everything but the seafood (which is sustainably sourced) comes from Tennessee, from the organic vegetables to the locally grazed meats. Everything also has a healthy bent, with daily-changing menu items that lean heavily on vegetables and lean protein."

"Sake may be rooted in Japan, but the stuff served here has a taste of the South. Brewmaster Bryn Stithem ferments rice grown in Arkansas in a slew of barrels—some left over by local distillers—for a distinct yet subtle flavor. Stop in for a tasting and to learn about the process. It’s a pleasant surprise in a town more associated with beer and whiskey. "

"The lovely Reese Witherspoon, a born and bred Nashville girl, gave us a list of some of the places she likes: At the top, the orchid-hued Tootsies, which is apparently the #1 honky-tonk bar in the world! (A fun historical fact: Artists performing at the Grand Ole Opry used to sneak to Tootsie’s through the alley connecting it to the Ryman Auditorium during the show.)"

"Located in the up-and-coming Gulch neighborhood, the Station Inn is a vestige of another time. Don’t be fooled by the bare-bones exterior, this is the best venue for bluegrass. Period. They don’t take reservations and it’s first come, first serve—doors open at 7 p.m. so be sure to line up early. When it fills up, they stick a paper plate on the door that says “Sold Out.” One of the nights GP went, she saw Jim Lauderdale, one of the best and most well-respected local singer-songwriters, and his band play some rockin’ bluegrass (she was in the company of a bunch of musicians that night and they were truly blown away by the music). The Time Jumpers, who play there on most Monday nights, are also worth catching if you get a chance. "

"Our favorite honky-tonk for dancing, this low-key bar has live music every night, bringing couples young and old out to showcase their skills on the dance floor. It’s a great place to go on weeknights since it gets rowdier on the weekend as it is located right on the main strip. You can also buy cowboy boots here; one of the walls is lined in shelves full of pairs in every shape and size imaginable."

"This store, owned by Holly Williams (who has exquisite taste and happens to be the daughter of Hank Williams Jr.), is the most cutting-edge of the shops in Nashville, carrying brands like Rick Owens, Ulla Johnson, Rag & Bone, and Anine Bing. Check out the second floor, too, which houses Williams's collection of music photography by the likes of Henry Diltz and Pattie Boyd."

"Hailing from Henderson, Kentucky, Matt and Carrie Eddmenson—childhood friends and now a married couple—worked together in Carrie’s family business, developing denim collections for brands like Rogan, Earnest Sewn, Seven, J.Brand, etc. They moved to Nashville in May 2009 and opened a magical store that we were lucky to visit. The store sells handpicked denim from select brands like A.P.C., choice vintage pieces like cowboy leather jackets and boots, scarves hand-dyed by Carrie’s brother in India, and Imogene + Willie brand bespoke jeans, made of tough denim that you have to work into. After a few months, they guarantee you will have a soft pair that fits you and only you and bears the marks of your wear. (For the less hard-core denim buyers, you can also purchase a pre-softened, pre-“lived-in” pair.) "

"This is the place to get a guitar, banjo, mandolin, or any “fretted” instrument, if you’re picky about terminology like the experts at Gruhn. George Gruhn started the store in 1970, and it has come to be one of the—if not the—premier places in the US to buy instruments. The client list is a who’s who of musicians—Eric Clapton, Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Neil Young, and many, many more. The store and repair shop specialize in vintage models, and they keep a file on the history of each and every instrument in their inventory. Basically, if music is your thing, you’ve got to pay them a visit. Their website is a frett aficionado’s haven with George Gruhn’s newsletters on fretted instruments and features on particularly special models. If there’s a vintage model you’re particularly interested in, let them know and they’ll keep an eye out for you."

"A working print studio and shop front, Hatch Show Print is a Nashville institution, having produced advertisements and posters for local shows since 1879. Fittingly, it is now in the hands of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Here, you can buy reissued posters of old-fashioned advertisements and concerts—Roy Orbison, Dolly Parton, Hank Snow, and more. The staff here is incredibly friendly and happy to answer your questions about the studio and its history. You can also have a poster custom-designed and printed there, but conceive your design way in advance, as these limited-edition prints take at least six weeks to prepare. "

"While GP was in Nashville, Faith Hill took her to the annual Antiques & Garden show. If you happen to find yourself in town any given February, be sure to check it out: It's vast and packed with quality pieces. "

"Owned by goop friend Holly Williams, this old-time mercantile occupies an abandoned filling station, which adds to the overall effect. Here, you’ll find a smattering of groceries, plus irresistible home goods, from cookbooks to candles to linens, and a small but mighty beauty section, which conveniently includes the goop organic skin-care line. There's a second location in Franklin."

"This university gallery is very much worth a visit. Every two years, it exhibits photographer Alfred Stieglitz’s personal collection (Cézanne, Toulouse-Lautrec, Picasso), as well as a permanent collection that spans three centuries. You’ll see works from masters like Alexander Calder, Diego Rivera, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Aaron Douglas. "

"The Frist has an entire gallery—the Martin ArtQuest Gallery—devoted to art activities where children can come by every day between 10 and 5:30 and on Sunday starting at 1 p.m. There are thirty decked-out stations set up for kids to experiment with different media including drawing, sculpting, printmaking, and even filmmaking with toy dinosaurs, plastic animals, and big toy spiders. For everyone else, there’s an encyclopedic lineup of rotating exhibitions from all over the world, as well as the recently renovated Martin ArtQuest Gallery, with interactive artmaking stations, some of which are inspired by the museum’s current exhibitions. Children (and adults) can experiment with different media including painting, printmaking, and animation. Bonus: Children under eighteen can visit for free."

"While Cheekwood has plenty to appeal to all ages, it’s great for little ones. The estate hosts Tuesdays for Tots year-round, and activities change weekly. It's a wonderful opportunity for little ones to roll up their sleeves and experiment with glue, markers, glitter, and paint. During June and July, Cheekwood offers summer camp to explore the gardens and make their own little masterpieces. "