The Gulch, arguably Nashville’s hottest downtown neighborhood, offers some of Music City‘s very best in entertainment. From dining to shopping and nightlife, there is so much to do in a stretch of only a few blocks. This LEED-certified community, planned with eco-friendliness and energy efficiency in mind, is up–and–coming in several ways. Its prime location gives you the neon lights of Broadway, some of Nashville’s largest museums and music venues, quirky coffee shops, and so much more! Explore The Gulch in Nashville, TN, and find out what everyone — including Conde Nast — is raving about!
We included some of our favorite activities and attractions in The Gulch below, but this is far from the complete list. There are many more possibilities to discover within our free Travel Guide! This complimentary, comprehensive resource has everything you need to know about Music City so you can plan the ultimate trip.
Find the Best Things to Do in The Gulch
Where to Dine in The Gulch
The hip neighborhood of The Gulch in Nashville, Tennessee, is home to some of the best restaurants in the downtown area. Here are a few of our top choices:
Pemrose
Food: You may not think of indulging in seafood while visiting the Volunteer State, but Pemrose will change your mind. Hit their ocean bar for oysters and ceviche. Then, pair it with a fresh fruit cocktail or glass from their expertly designed wine menu.
Atmosphere: The sleek restaurant combines exquisitely crafted, coastal dishes in an airy, comfortable atmosphere. It’s small but in all the right ways! Pemrose boasts an open-kitchen concept, so you can watch the chef prepare your dish. Pull up a chair at the surfboard-shaped teakwood table and enjoy dinner underneath the lanterns.
Adele’s
Food: Adele’s prides itself on farm-to-fork cuisine and provides guests with the best seasonal produce. From biscuits to bacon, no stone is left unturned. But this isn’t your basic country kitchen — Adele’s provides five-star entrees, including racks of lamb and hearty steaks.
Atmosphere: The restaurant features modern, industrial farmhouse vibes — think Joanna Gaines. Adele’s has floor-to-ceiling windows displaying views of 12th Avenue. Come for lunch, then stay for happy hour.
Whiskey Kitchen
You’d be hard-pressed to find a Music City foodie who doesn’t love Whiskey Kitchen. The casual dining spot serves up trendy drinks and creative dishes.
Food: What says “Southern tradition” more than chicken and waffles? Try Whiskey Kitchen’s take on the classic dish, which is glazed in sweet honey and butter, then paired with perfectly seasoned collard greens and creamy mac and cheese. You’ll be saying “yee-haw” before you reach Broadway!
Atmosphere: While the food may be down-home Southern, Whiskey Kitchen’s ambiance and drink menu say, “trendy New American.” Catch a football game at the welcoming wooden bar or snag one of their booths for a more intimate experience.
Biscuit Love
Food: Biscuit Love will be your new favorite breakfast joint. From fried churros smothered in decadent chocolate sauce to the East Nasty (Bon Appetit’s “best sandwich in America”), you really can’t go wrong at this biscuit hub. Are you not in the mood for a hot, buttered biscuit? Try their hash or homemade grits. There are vegetarian options, too!
Atmosphere: Biscuit Love is a straight-forward breakfast shop. Pick your entree, order at the counter, then pull up a chair at one of their cafe-style tables. Savor a cup of Muletown Roasted Coffee and stay awhile.
Emmy Squared Pizza
Food: Brooklyn-based Emmy Squared knows pizza. They specialize in deep-dish pies. We recommend diving into the Big Ang — a masterpiece featuring ricotta, meatballs, peppers, and homemade vodka sauce. Are you hungry for more? Try a burger or their mozzarella-covered chicken parmesan sandwich.
Atmosphere: Emmy Squared is inviting and non-pretentious. Its “come as you are” style provides you with the perfect opportunity to let your hair down and enjoy good company.
Burger Republic
Known as Nashville’s “burger place,” Burger Republic satisfies The Gulch’s red meat lovers. Grab a local brew and enjoy the sounds of Music City here!
Food: You need to prepare yourself for Burger Republic’s Tennessee Burger. The staff grills Angus beef glazed in Jack Daniel’s honey to perfection, then top it with American cheese, maple–roasted bacon, crispy onion straws, and smoked ketchup. Need we say more?
Atmosphere: Burger Republic is a family-friendly establishment complete with strawberry milkshakes and “hot tots” (their take on classic tater tots). The restaurant also offers an extensive beer menu, so bring a group and grab a seat at the bar.
The Gulch’s Best Shopping
The Gulch in Nashville, TN, is a popular place for a variety of reasons, and shopping is one of them. Lucchese is known worldwide as a high-end bootmaker, making it the perfect place to purchase a pair of well-made cowboy boots.
Two Old Hippies then serves as the flagship music lifestyle store of The Gulch in Nashville, TN. It offers a great selection of guitars, keyboards, and drum sets. There are also apparel collections, accessories, rock n’ roll memorabilia, and fun novelty items.
The e.Allen Boutique is a great shop to browse brand names. Take a seat at the full-service denim bar or peruse unique jewelry and trendy apparel.
The Top Bars in The Gulch
Our ultimate guide to The Gulch in Nashville, TN, isn’t complete without mentioning the nightlife. If you’re looking for a great place to go for drinks, then The Gulch is an ideal place to venture. The Hops & Crafts Taproom is a beer lover’s dream come true, with local and regional brews as well as an assortment of pub fare.
If you want to go dancing, then Agenda is the perfect nightlife destination. This nightclub features VIP service, large booths, and some of Nashville’s best DJs. For a more laid-back lounge, UP should be your Gulch nightlife selection. This rooftop lounge includes a fresh farm-to-table menu, full bar service, and spectacular views of downtown!
Stay in The Gulch With Playlist Properties
If you want to stay close to amazing Gulch attractions, restaurants, shops, and more, then our accommodations are well-suited for your Nashville vacation. We have several options on the edge of The Gulch in Nashville, Tennessee, with luxurious furnishings and top-notch amenities you won’t get with other rental companies.
So, what are you waiting for? Browse our properties in The Gulch today! Just don’t forget to book direct for the best rates!