I’ve spent countless afternoons wandering the charming streets of 12 South, and let me tell you, this neighborhood has completely stolen my heart.
As someone who’s become intimately familiar with every corner of this walkable district, I can confidently say that the dining scene here is absolutely exceptional.
From upscale date-night spots to casual taco joints, the best restaurants in 12 South Nashville offer something for every craving.
I’ve made it my mission to try as many places to eat in 12 South Nashville as possible, and I’m excited to share my top picks with you today in this Nashville Guide.
I share these food moments on WavyNashville.com. Each visit gives me a new story. Every meal feels like a little adventure. I’m excited for you to explore 12 South with me.
Restaurants in 12 South Nashville Map
1. The Henry
- Location: 2803 12th Ave S #105, Nashville, TN 37204
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 AM -10 PM, Friday 11 AM – 11 PM, Saturday-Sunday 10 AM – 11 PM
The Henry brings sophisticated neighborhood dining to 12 South with its clubby atmosphere featuring dark wood, wine-colored hues, and leather-upholstered booths.
This New American restaurant excels at elevated classics, from their perfectly executed cheeseburger to rotisserie chicken and global-inspired dishes like rigatoni.
The upper-level patio with retractable windows offers fantastic views, making it ideal for weekend brunch when you want to watch the neighborhood buzz by.
Their short rib dumplings sell out quickly, and for good reason—tender beef wrapped in delicate wrappers served with ponzu sauce. The extensive brown liquor selection makes it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts.
Check The Henry Google Map Here.
2. Hearts 12 South
- Location: 2701 12th Ave S Suite B, Nashville, TN 37204
- Hours: Daily 7 AM – 3 PM
This Australian-inspired all-day breakfast cafe has earned its reputation as one of Nashville’s most beloved brunch destinations. Hearts serves up creative morning fare like their signature Twice Cooked French Toast alongside fresh salads and sandwiches for those seeking lunch options.
The cafe’s bright, welcoming atmosphere and quality coffee make it perpetually busy, but the wait is always worth it.
Originally from East Nashville, this 12 South location has quickly become a neighborhood staple where locals and visitors gather for exceptional breakfast dishes crafted with care.
3. Fonda 12 South
- Location: 2316 12 Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Fonda 12 South represents the upscale end of the neighborhood’s taco spectrum, brought to you by the restaurant group behind Sadie’s and Adele’s. Chef Roberto Santibañez, a Le Cordon Bleu graduate from Mexico City, crafts inventive Mexican cuisine with unexpected twists.
Their taco boards let you assemble your own creations, while high-end offerings include slow-cooked pulled duck with blackberry mole and sliced wagyu ribeye in chipotle-hazelnut mole.
The vibrant modern cantina atmosphere pairs perfectly with their impressive tequila and mezcal lineup, making it a destination for anyone seeking elevated Mexican dining.
4. Postino 12 South
- Location: 2317 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Postino 12 South opened in November 2024 as Tennessee’s first location of this beloved Italian-inspired wine bar. The laid-back atmosphere encourages you to linger over their proprietary wine selection, bruschetta boards, and paninis.
The sheltered, heated terrace provides prime people-watching opportunities along busy 12th Avenue.
Their Monday and Tuesday “Board + Bottle” special offers a bruschetta board and bottle of wine for $25 after 8 PM. The quirky interior features a wall of vintage televisions, creating a nostalgic backdrop for casual wine drinking at lunch or dinner.
Check Postino Google Map Here.
5. The Butter Milk Ranch
- Location: 2407 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
The Butter Milk Ranch has become Nashville’s Instagram-famous bakery and cafe, drawing weekend crowds for their massive, incredibly delicious croissants.
This all-day breakfast and brunch spot offers both sit-down restaurant service and bakery counter options, so even when the dining room fills up, you can grab pastries and enjoy the outdoor seating.
Their croissants alone justify the visit—flaky, buttery, and generously sized. The cafe serves comprehensive breakfast and brunch menus that have earned it widespread social media attention and a devoted local following.
Check The Butter Milk Ranch Google Map Here.
6. Urban Grub
- Location: 2506 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Urban Grub delivers upscale Southern dining with a focus on fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and smoked meats. The cozy interior features fireplaces that create an intimate atmosphere perfect for date nights and special occasions.
While prices range from $50-$100 per person, it’s one of Nashville’s more reasonable options for fancy dining.
The menu centers on seafood and Southern fare, consistently delivering quality dishes in a stylish setting. Weekend brunch here is particularly popular, offering a chance to enjoy their elevated cuisine in a more relaxed daytime atmosphere.
Check Urban Grub Google Map Here.
7. Edley’s Bar-B-Que
- Location: 2706 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Edley’s serves authentic Tennessee barbecue with exceptionally tender ribs finished in a pleasantly peppery dry rub. The pork sandwiches are stellar, and the sides—especially the mac and cheese and banana pudding—deserve equal billing with the smoked meats.
The 12 South location offers better people-watching than their other Nashville spots, with a relaxed, fun atmosphere perfect for casual dining.
Their happy hour specials include $1 off drafts, wine, cocktails, and wells from 2-6 PM, with Wednesday all-day $5 mules making it a neighborhood favorite.
Check Edley’s Bar-B-Que Google Map Here.
8. Frothy Monkey
- Location: 2509 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Frothy Monkey has been a 12 South institution since 2004, when this cozy bungalow became the original location of what’s now a Nashville mini-chain.
This neighborhood cafe serves specialty coffee alongside scratch-made breakfast, lunch, and dinner with craft beer, wine, and cocktails available all day. The expanded beer garden provides outdoor seating perfect for Nashville’s pleasant weather.
Their menu features everything from hearty breakfast dishes to Mediterranean quinoa bowls and grilled salmon sandwiches, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, including herb-marinated tofu preparations.
Check Frothy Monkey Google Map Here.
9. Burger Up
- Location: 2901 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
- Hours: Daily 11 AM – 9 PM
Burger Up has built its reputation on responsibly sourced, grass-fed beef from local farms practicing sustainable, humane animal treatment.
Their menu extends beyond typical burger joints, featuring creative burger varieties including beef, chicken, and vegetarian options on freshly baked buns.
You’ll also find salads, fried oysters, and decadent desserts rounding out the offerings. The laid-back atmosphere and commitment to sustainability make it a guilt-free indulgence, while the quality of ingredients ensures every burger delivers exceptional flavor.
Check Burger Up Google Map Here.
10. Bartac
- Location: 2526 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Bartaco brings coastal-inspired dining to landlocked Nashville with beach-culture vibes and exotic taco varieties. Their menu features creative options like shrimp banh mi tacos, duck with tamarind glaze, and falafel, along with ceviche, tamales, and pork pozole for non-taco lovers.
The fresh, flavorful ingredients and trendy atmosphere create a relaxed dining experience that feels like a mini vacation.
Their fresh-squeezed cocktails complement the upscale street food perfectly, making it a lively spot for 12 South restaurants lunch or dinner.
Check Bartaco Google Map Here.
11. Wanna Spoon Cereal Bar
- Location: 1111 Caruthers Ave, Nashville, TN 37204
Wanna Spoon is one of Nashville’s most whimsical dining concepts—a cereal bar serving bowls of cereal, ice cream, and milkshakes alongside coffee, tea, hot chocolate, wine, and cocktails. The front case displays various baked goods for quick grab-and-go treats.
What truly sets this spot apart is the fenced-in backyard filled with fun yard games like cornhole and giant Connect4, creating a playful atmosphere perfect for casual hangouts with friends or family outings.
Check Wanna Spoon Cereal Bar Google Map Here.
12. Ladybird Taco
- Location: 2229 10th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 7 AM -3 PM, Friday-Sunday 7 AM – 4 PM
Ladybird Taco brings Austin-style taco culture to Nashville, specializing in breakfast and lunch tacos on house-made corn or flour tortillas.
Their Texas roots shine through in details like fresh-made queso and salsa, paired with full barista service featuring Crema coffee all day.
The menu includes their award-winning veggie taco (voted best in Nashville), along with creative options and elevated guacamole featuring watermelon, pepitas, and cotija cheese. This fast-casual spot has become a morning favorite for locals seeking quality breakfast tacos.
Check Ladybird Taco Google Map Here.
13. Locust
- Location: 2305 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Locust offers Nashville’s most mysterious and minimalist dining experience, featuring inventive small plates and dumplings that push creative boundaries. The restaurant requires reservations and can only accommodate parties of four or fewer, creating an intimate atmosphere.
Their seasonal menu showcases unique flavor combinations that have made it one of the neighborhood’s most talked-about restaurants.
When reservations here don’t come through, many locals use The Henry as their backup plan, though Locust’s innovative approach to dining remains unmatched.
14. Mesero
- Location: 2803 12th Ave S #202, Nashville, TN 37204
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 AM -10 PM, Friday 11 AM -11pm, Saturday 3 PM -11 PM, Sunday 3 PM -10 PM; Weekend Brunch Saturday-Sunday 10 AM -3pm
Mesero delivers its bold take on Tex-Mex to one of 12 South’s most walkable corners near Sevier Park. Their signature Queso Mesero and mesquite-grilled fajitas have developed devoted followings, while the brisket tacos and shrimp-loaded ceviche keep guests returning regularly.
The vibrant dining room and patio create perfect settings for everything from midweek lunches to weekend brunch, with handcrafted margaritas and Mambo Taxis complementing every meal. The atmosphere strikes the right balance between energetic and approachable.
15. Epice
- Location: 2902 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204
Epice brings refined Lebanese cuisine to 12 South’s diverse dining scene, serving authentic Middle Eastern fare in a sleek, sophisticated space.
Their mezze platters, grilled meats, and fresh salads showcase traditional preparations alongside creative interpretations.
Must-try dishes include Shakshukah—oven-baked eggs with spiced tomato hash—and Knefah, a dessert featuring sweet cheese, shredded filo, and pistachios.
The restaurant’s polished atmosphere makes it ideal for date nights when you want something different from typical Nashville dining options.
Let Our Team Guide Your Nashville Story
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