5 Simple Joys: Nashville

When you live in Chicago, Nashville is the perfect spot for a quick weekend getaway for that small-but-important weather upgrade. My husband and I spent a recent weekend in Nashville in order to visit the Antiques and Garden Show. On Super Bowl Sunday, ready for an afternoon of exploring, we headed to the charming 12 South neighborhood for lunch and a wander. Here are 5 Simple Joys from that outing.

1. Taqueria del Sol // @taqueriadelsol

taqueria del sol, nashville: simple pretty

One of my favorite drinks is a margarita on the rocks. And for me, it can make or break a Mexican restaurant. Thankfully, Taqueria del Sol has an excellent house margarita and tacos with a southern flair (fried chicken, memphis bbq). Pro-tip: skip the line and grab a seat at the bar for super-quick and attentive service.

2. White’s Mercantile // @whitesmercantile

white's mercantile, nashville: simple pretty

Every day of exploring needs a good dose of shopping (even if it’s window shopping). White’s Mercantile, on the site of a former gas station, is a delightful take on a Southern general store. I had a good browse: spotting Sugar Paper products brought a smile, and true to form, I could not leave without buying a few new greeting cards.

3. Las Paletas // @laspaletasnashville

las paletas, nashville: simple pretty

A friend told me not to miss Las Paletas, located at the end of the 12 South shopping district near Sevier Park. She was right: the hardest decision was which flavor to choose! (I went for strawberry; my husband chose chocolate with chocolate chips.) My recommendation? Grab one to enjoy over a stroll through the park.

4. Five Daughters Bakery // @five_daughters_bakery

5 Simple Joys Nashville // Five Daughters Bakery

A cute bakery (which usually means striking graphic design) never fails to get my attention. Five Daughters Bakery specializes in 100 Layer doughnuts, their take on the cronut. I can attest to the deliciousness of the Purist, a 100-Layer option covered in a simple vanilla glaze. I’m an afternoon bakery shopper (usually thinking of the next day’s breakfast) so it was nice to learn that the Five Daughters website features a doughnut cam for each location. Strategy.

5. Amelia’s Flower Truck // @ameliasflowertruck

amelia's flower truck, nashville: simple pretty

The one spot I’m sad to have missed (the flower truck’s off season is December through February) … what could be better than a truck filled with flowers by the stem? Would have loved to cap off the day with a pretty bouquet. Next time.

 

photo credits: 1-4 by jane potrykus; 5 via ameliasflowertruck.com