About the neighborhood

The Gulch has been wholly reimagined over the past two decades. What was once a busy railroad yard fell into neglect after World War II and stood largely abandoned for nearly 50 years.

Today, the neighborhood is a sleek and vibrant hub of see-and-be-seen eateries, trendy shops, and magnetic murals that pull visitors in with an effortlessly chic aesthetic—it’s the upscale antithesis to Broadway’s bright lights and booming sounds. The Gulch was the tenth project in the United States to be awarded the LEED-ND distinction for sustainability, and Paseo South Gulch is carrying on the LEED tradition with its own brand of sustainability initiatives.

The emerging microneighborhood is poised to take over as the Gulch’s central hub, with some of Nashville’s best and brightest flocking to the area, including The Catbird Seat, James Beard Award semifinalist Maiz de la Vida, and NYC’s Blind Barber. Interconnected walkways, alleys, and terraces make the Paseo South Gulch easily walkable, with quick access to hotels, residences, and plenty of outdoor activities. Here’s how to make the most of a visit to the Gulch, below.

Where to eat

Arnold’s Country Kitchen
A classic meat-and-three, Arnold’s has been a Nashville institution since 1984, casually serving up hearty portions of proteins like country fried steak, pork chops, and roast beef coupled with Southern sides ranging from black eyed peas to mac and cheese.

Maíz de la Vida
A James Beard semifinalist, Julio Hernandez’s Maiz de la Vida uses a special process called nixtamalization to turn heirloom corn into tortillas that defy expectation with their sturdiness and intricate minerality. Test it out for yourself with an order of sirloin steak tacos or the chicken birria with a side of beef consomé for dipping.

St. Vito’s Focacceria 
At the warm and whimsical St. Vito’s, you’ll find Sicilian-style pizza known as “sficione” served whole or by the slice. Roasted potatoes, pepperoni, and giardiniera are nestled into fluffy tufts of focaccia that more than satisfy.

The Catbird Seat
An experimental incubator for new chefs, The Catbird Seat transforms itself with each new chef who takes the helm. What you can count on: an intimate tasting menu experience with dishes that never fail to surprise, challenge, and excite the palate.

The Iberian Pig
Situated in a former chocolate factory (right around the corner from St. Vito’s), the Iberian Pig offers loads of exquisite Spanish tapas, charcuterie, and wine in a moody bi-level space.

Where to drink

The Patterson House
Nashville’s first craft cocktail bar is also the sister establishment to The Catbird Seat. It’s a place where unexpected ingredients like sorghum black tea cordial and byrrh meet tight bartending techniques in a dimly-lit, sultry space.

Blind Barber
A classic barber shop by day, this speakeasy-style space turns into a local bar by night with velour booths, a spacious dance floor, and signature craft cocktails to fuel the action.

What to see and do

Frist Art Museum
Housed in the city’s historic U.S. Post Office building (and a five minute drive from the Gulch), the Frist hosts award-winning art shows and exhibitions from some of the world’s most valued collections.

National Museum of African American Music
A five minute drive from the Gulch, this 56,000-square-foot Downtown institution is the only museum dedicated to celebrating music genres created and influenced by African Americans. Expertly curated collections and interactive technology tell a compelling tale of African Americans’ role in our cultural soundtrack.

Third Man Records
Part live music venue, part record store, the headquarters for Jack White’s label is the perfect spot for soaking up the sounds of Nashville. Book one of the weekly tours to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the record label, its direct-to-acetate recording facilities, and a studio that’s hosted everyone from Cat Stevens to Billie Eilish.

Cannery Hall
What started as a flour and coffee mill has become an integral part of Nashville’s music history, hosting shows in its hallowed halls for over 40 years. After new ownership took over in 2019, the four venues here have brought new life to the area with events and performances from bands from around the world.