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Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Us, expanding far beyond just a destination for country music lovers. These days it’s gaining a reputation among the most elite of foodies, with daily announcements of cool new developments and accolades handed to its hottest restaurants. all of this progress has brought resurgence — and leading the charge is the trendy 12south neighbourhood.

Just a few years ago a blighted part of town that locals avoided, 12south has now emerged as one of the places to be seen in Nashville. Beautifully restored homes, chic boutiques and a wide array of dining options are all within walking distance and allow for afternoons filled with a plethora of possibilities — making it truly the perfect one-stop destination to live, eat, drink, shop and play.

EAT Nashville residents pride themselves on supporting local business, so you absolutely won’t see any familiar chains in this neighbourhood. start your day by grabbing an icicle treat at las Paletas, a gourmet popsicle shop. Opt for an

adventurous flavour such as its famous hot Chocolate — a combination of creamy chocolate with a kick of chilli.

For lunch, try edley’s Bar-B-Que for an authentic southern meal complete with all the ‘fixins’ — homemade sides such as baked beans, slaw, mac and cheese, and cornbread. in particular, don’t miss the barbeque nachos with brisket and fried pickles, and the smoked wings.

Dinner reservations are a necessity at Josephine, one of Nashville’s newest hotspots. Pioneered by local restaurateur Miranda Whitcomb Pontes of Burger Up fame (her well-revered burger restaurant just down the street), Josephine’s new-american cuisine, hip atmosphere and top-notch service have already elevated it to every local foodie’s favourite list. a must-try is the skillet of pretzel rolls with mustard butter, and you can’t go wrong with any one

of its inventive vegetable sides or main dishes. its cocktails are pretty good, too.

You won’t have to go far for dessert — just walk next door to Jeni’s splendid ice Creams. Remarkable flavours include goat’s cheese with cherry, and brown-butter almond brittle. even its classic ‘Milkiest Chocolate in the World’ is exceptional.

DRINK One can’t visit Nashville without trying a Bushwacker. This alcoholic milkshake-like beverage can be found at various spots throughout the city, but is particularly good (and strong) at previously mentioned edley’s Bar-B-Que. Mosey across the street to Frothy Monkey, and there’s a good chance you will bump shoulders with a famous musician while enjoying one of the best lattes in town. hit Mafioza’s Pizzeria and Neighborhood Pub to indulge in a ▶

Swing by Cadeau, a fun antique, vintage and accessory store to pick up a Nashville-made 12South candle — a favourite among locals and the perfect way to commemorate your visit.

TAKE A souvENIR

NashvilleTraditionally the home of country music, Nashville’s latest hit is its 12South district — where you’re just as likely to find a gourmet meal as a guitar.

ON THE RADAR: 12south

The interior of Josephine restaurant, one of the best places to eat in Nashville.

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drink (note the two-for-one drinks and pizza offer on Tuesday night). a little further down 12th avenue south sits 12 south Taproom and Grill, a charming bar where you can grab a chair on the patio, relax with friends and enjoy a variety of beer via its extensive list. looking for a bit more beer to cap off the night? The Filling station carries 24 options on tap and you can even grab a growler to go. Be sure to sample refreshing creations from local breweries including Yazoo, Jackalope, Tennessee Brew Works and Turtle anarchy.

sHoP Options are plentiful when it comes to shopping in 12south. White’s Mercantile is a recently opened boutique and the latest venture of singer holly Williams (daughter of musician hank Williams Jr). it’s located in an old gas station at the southern-most end of the district. Williams showcases regional purveyors and offers a variety of items that span from olive oils and lotions to hand-picked antiques, linen and glasses. imogene and Willie, Nashville’s go-to spot for jeans, offers denim custom-fitted

to your specifications — a must-purchase for any fashionista, including a few celebrities. The shop creates hand cuts and alters all of its designs in Nashville.

Finally, a visit to Nashville isn’t complete without a trip to the music store: stop at Corner Music and strum a few guitars, tickle some ivories and ensure you are ready to hit the stage. To suit up for your performance visit Katy K Designs, which offers western threads, including suits from Manuel — the ‘tailor to the stars’ credited as being responsible for making Johnny Cash the iconic man in black.

GETTinG ThERE virgin australia operates direct flights to los angeles, with connections to Memphis with its partner, Delta air lines. To book, visit www.virginaustralia.com or simply call 13 67 89 (in australia).

12 south Taproom and Grill www.12southtaproom.com Cadeau www.cadeaugifts.comCorner Music www.cornermusic.comEdley’s Bar-B-Que www.edleysbbq.com Frothy Monkey www.frothymonkey.comImogene and Willie www.imogeneandwillie.com Jeni’s splendid Ice Creams www.jenis.comJosephine www.josephineon12th.comKaty K Designs www.katyk.comLas Paletas +1 615 386 2101Mafioza’s Pizzeria and Neighborhood Pub www.mafiaozas.comThe Filling station www.brewstogo.comWhite’s Mercantile www.whitesmercantile.com

LittLe BLACK BOOK

(clockwise from left) Imogene and Willie’s custom-fit jeans; Imogene and Willie storefront; goats cheese and red cherry ice-cream at Jeni’s splendid Ice Creams; vintage clothes at Katy K Designs; Josephine’s brussels sprout with charred orange.

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