Merchants Hotel in the 1930s. Image courtesy of Nashville Public Library.
Food for Thought
What do fried chicken, Civil Rights sit-ins, Victorian Era architecture, and sushi have in common? On the "Food for Thought" tour you will learn how southern food, history, and architecture have shaped "New Nashville" as you eat your way through the city's oldest neighborhood. Situated among some of the best restaurants in the downtown area, this walking tour takes you to important buildings and describes the role of each site in Nashville's rich history. Have a bite to eat at any, or all, of the sites. They vary in cost-per-meal from inexpensive to fine dining, and there is something for every palate.
In the end, you will understand how the evolving culinary scene draws inspiration from local history, southern culture, and ultimately shapes Nashville's identity. Please note that it is the user’s responsibility to check the business hours of each site. Make your way to the luxurious Hermitage Hotel, where elegance and sustainable farming come together in one of the city's most historic buildings. Begin the tour at the Hermitage Hotel.
Tour Stops
Hermitage Hotel/Capitol Grille and Oak Bar
231 Sixth Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37219
417 Union/ Satsuma Tea Room
417 Union Street, Nashville, TN, 37219
The Arcade and Peanut Shop
65 Arcade Alley, Nashville, TN 37219
Woolworth on Fifth
221 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208
St. Cloud Corner/ Puckett's Grocery and Restaurant
500 Church Street, Nashville, TN 37219
L&C Tower/ Deacon's
401 Church Street, Nashville, TN 37219
Noelle Hotel
200 Fourth Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37219
Dream Hotel/ Utopia Hotel and Climax Saloon
210 Fourth Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37219
Southern Turf/ Skull's Rainbow Room
222 Fourth Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37219
Black Rabbit
218 Third Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37201
Gray & Dudley
221 Second Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37201
Acme Feed and Seed
101 Broadway Nashville, TN 37201
Merchants Restaurant
401 Broadway Nashville, TN 37203

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