Nashville Spotlight: 12 South

Bustling with activity yet exuding warmth and a welcoming vibe, 12 South is a throwback to neighborhoods of old — to a time when people walked to the corner restaurant or bakery and actually knew their neighbors.

Drawing its name from the primary thoroughfare that runs through its heart, this established and close-knit community has a brand of charm and character all its own. From moms with strollers to musicians toting guitars, 12 South is an eclectic mix of diverse shops, residents and visitors. Here’s a closer look at this popular urban enclave:

Where to eat

From upscale dining at Urban Grub to tasty chicken at The Flipside, 12 South is rife with dining options. Enjoy Lebanese cuisine at Epice, a farmhouse dinner at Josephine or pizza at neighborhood favorite Mafiaoza’s. At Frothy Monkey people gather for coffee, socialize, work and watch the world go by. And while it may be winter now, on a hot summer day, nothing refreshes like a frozen treat from Las Paletas.

Other options include:

• Edley’s Bar-B-Que
• Burger Up
• Bartaco
• Sprinkles Cupcakes
• Frothy Monkey
• Portland Brew
• Five Daughters Bakery
• 12 South Taproom & Grill

Where to shop

A retail excursion could include clothing finds at Imogene + Willie, Vinnie Louise or MODA Boutique and handcrafted jewelry at Judith Bright. At Draper James, you’ll find clothing, home accents and more. (Look for owner Reese Witherspoon.) Serendipity offers apparel and home accessories. At Halcyon Bike Shop, you’ll find cycling essentials plus local art shows and musical performances. Other retailers include Emerson Grace, Savant Vintage, Wags and Whiskers Holistic Pet Shop and White’s Mercantile.

Where to hang your hat

The neighborhood consists of older homes and bungalows — many of which have been remodeled or restored — as well as condos and a few newer homes, making for an eclectic housing mix that’s a perfect match for this neighborhood. 

Where to play

Stroll from your house to Sevier Park, where warmer months bring the 12 South Farmers Market. The park has playgrounds, a tennis court, basketball court, community center and walking path and is also host to concerts and other events. For the active set, stretch out at 12South Yoga or ramp up your exercise routine at Marathon Fitness. At Art & Soul, you can embrace your inner artist.

More to love

• Close proximity to Belmont University
• Diverse houses of worship — from Midtown Fellowship to Second Missionary Baptist to the Islamic Center of Nashville
• Music stores (Corner Music and Fork’s Drum Closet) that cater to local musicians
• Craft beer
• Food tours with Nashville Food Adventures
• The “I Believe in Nashville” mural (at 2700 12th Ave. S.)