Places I’ve Tried (and Loved) Lately: A Nashville Mom’s Mini Guide to Some of My New Favorites

One of my favorite things about living in Nashville is that there’s always something new to discover. A new coffee shop pops up, a restaurant you’ve been meaning to try finally makes it onto your calendar, or you stumble across a hidden gem while running errands.

Lately, I’ve been making an intentional effort to say “yes” to trying new places, even if it’s just grabbing a bagel between school drop-off and work or squeezing in a quick lunch with a friend.

Here are a few places I’ve tried recently that have officially earned a spot on my “I’ll definitely be back” list.

Jeff’s Bagel Run

If you’ve spent any time near Nolensville you’ve probably seen Jeff’s Bagel Run. I finally stopped in, and now I completely understand the hype.

First, the employees are genuinely some of the nicest people you’ll meet. In a world where customer service can feel rushed and impersonal, their team makes you feel welcome the minute you walk through the door.

Second, the bagel flavors are next-level. We’re talking lemon ricotta, loaded baked potato, pizza, and so many more that you’ll probably spend several minutes staring at the menu trying to make a decision.

But here’s the secret: the cream cheese.

There are just as many cream cheese flavors as there are bagels, if not more, which means every bagel has a perfectly matched spread waiting for it. The jalapeño cream cheese brings just the right amount of heat, the whipped honey butter cream cheese feels like a little bit of dessert disguised as breakfast, and the veggie cream cheese is packed with so much flavor that it’s almost impossible to choose a favorite.

My advice? Don’t overthink your order. Pick a bagel, choose a cream cheese you’ve never tried before, grab a coffee, and prepare to start planning your next visit before you’ve even finished eating.

Southerners Coffee

The reason to visit this drive-thru coffee shop is simple: the drinks are incredible.

Their menu is full of fun, creative flavors that you won’t find at your typical coffee shop. The blueberry maple pancake latte somehow tastes exactly like a stack of pancakes in drink form, while the mango sticky rice matcha is one of the most unique coffee shop creations I’ve tried in a while.

And can we talk about the presentation?

Drinks are served in the cutest clear cans that are practically made for social media photos. They’re almost too pretty to drink. Almost.

If you’re someone who loves trying seasonal drinks and unexpected flavor combinations, this place deserves a spot on your must-visit list.

The Smiling Elephant

You know those restaurants that locals refuse to stop talking about?

For me, that was The Smiling Elephant.

Tucked away in Berry Hill, this cozy Thai restaurant somehow feels both quirky and authentic at the same time. The walls are covered with photos of celebrities who have visited over the years, and every corner is filled with interesting little trinkets.

And the food?

Hands down, some of the best Thai food I’ve had in Nashville.

It’s easy to see why it’s won so many awards and why people continue recommending it year after year.

The Carousel at The Factory

Sometimes, it’s not the restaurants or coffee shops that leave the biggest impression.

Sometimes, it’s a carousel.

If you haven’t visited the beautifully restored carousel inside The Factory at Franklin, add it to your list.

There’s something nostalgic and sweet about watching kids climb aboard and completely lose themselves in the experience. It’s one of those simple activities that doesn’t require an entire day of planning but still creates a memorable moment.

And while you’re there, you can explore the shops, grab a snack, and turn a quick outing into an afternoon adventure.

Nashville is full of incredible local businesses, and I’m adding new favorites to my list almost weekly.

If you have a place I should try next, send it my way. My running list is getting longer by the day, and honestly, I’m not mad about it.