12 South / Melrose

A half-mile stretch along 12th Avenue South called the 12 South neighborhood with a vintage clothing store on one end, a gourmet Mexican popsicle shop on the other, and many unique Nashville businesses in between.

12 South is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Nashville, a shopping and dining destination full of restaurants, coffee houses, bakeries, bars, and boutiques featuring local designers and makers.

Nearby Belmont University adds to a youthful vibe of the neighborhoods, though the stately and historic bungalows and nearby Sevier Park.

View The Market Report

What to Love

The perfect mix of classic homes and newer construction.
The most walkable neighborhood in all of Nashville!
Neighborhood parks, walking, and bike paths.
Wonderful assortment of businesses for foodies, fashion mavens, and architecture lovers.

People & Lifestyle

Both Nashville’s 12 South and Melrose areas have seen tremendous growth in the past few years. Convenient to downtown Nashville, both of these communities are attracting homeowners and businesses alike. 12 South is more appealing for families as there are more homes than apartments. The area is pocketed with classic homes which maintain their original charm. Melrose is rapidly developing and keeps a local vibe that its residents cherish. Think more condos and newer construction.

Dining, Shopping & Entertainment

For a good, traditional breakfast, Fenwick’s 300, is an excellent option. As a modern take on the traditional diner, it’s a great family-friendly place. A donut lover’s delight, with an adorable aesthetic to boot, Five Daughters Bakery, is a family business, owned and operated by Isaac and Stephanie Meek along with their five daughters. Josephine on 12th, led by chef Andy Little, pairs his Pennsylvania Dutch roots with Southern Hospitality.

A few lowkey music favorites include the Douglas Corner Cafe, where for over 30 years artists such as Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Blake Shelton, Eric Church, and others have performed. The Sutler Saloon, is a historic neighborhood bar in Melrose that features a triple line up of live music, southern pub food, and over 90 whiskey and bourbon offerings.

Shopping in 12 South is a true delight as boutiques are numerous. Draper James, owned by Southern Belle and Nashville native, Reese Witherspoon, is a classic American style boutique. At Outdoor Voices, you can find high quality recreational wear to make you feel strong, confident, and ready for #doingthings. Imogene + Willie is a denim purests dream as each pair is hand cut and hand sewn at their flagship shop, using both traditional methods and timeless design techniques.

Things to Do

Sevier Park in 12 South is one of the more historically beautiful parks with tranquil trees, lawns, a creek, and walking path. And every Tuesday from May through October, the 12 South Farmers Market features live music, local vendors, and food trucks.