Gabby's Burgers and Fries

When Doug Havron opened Gabby’s Burgers and Fries here in 2009, he revived the building’s long history of serving food and the community. Built in 1946, the restaurant was once known as Hap Townes, named for owner Gardner “Hap” Townes. The original restaurant specialized in meat-and-three, which changed each day, but their famous stewed raisins were always on the menu. Hap’s son, James, eventually took over the business, and Hap Townes emerged as a must-eat institution for Southern cafeterias. The restaurant welcomed all, and it was frequented by workers from the nearby May Hosiery Mill and musicians from Music Row. Chet Atkins had a favorite table at Hap Townes, and Johnny Cash and his band would often come in for breakfast after playing all night.

Gabby’s owner Doug Havron says that, “Mr. Townes didn’t care if you were a big wig or a small wig. He made sure that you got the same treatment. It was fair and honest treatment: ‘These are the rules. I’ll give you your money’s worth.’” Burgers and fries have replaced the meatloaf and baked chicken, but this philosophy still holds true at Gabby’s. Havron opened the restaurant after realizing life in the corporate food world made it hard to spend time with his family. The restaurant and the double burger are named for his daughter Gabriella, and the single and veggie burger for his son Seamus and wife Coreen respectively. Gabby’s also offers the Tipper dog, chicken sandwiches, and shakes. Gabby’s is open for lunch Monday through Saturday and until 7:30 on Fridays. Though their business hours are limited, this off-the-beaten path burger joint in Wedgewood-Houston is worth your time. 

From Gabby's, use the two crosswalks at the three-way intersection to reach the corner opposite Gabby’s, marked by the stone “Wedgewood-Houston” sign. Walk through the parking lot to reach Nashville Craft Distillery on your right.