Depending on your tolerance for heat and your love of humidity, you could arguably eat outdoors in Nashville about nine months out of the year. Personally, I opt out once the temps get higher than about 75, but springtime is an amazing time to enjoy the great attached outdoors (because if it’s not attached to an indoors, it’s not an outdoors I’m going to explore.) A perfect patio experience doesn’t necessarily require a fancy set-up or even a great view. Just good service and great food in the company of people you enjoy — and a margarita on the rocks doesn’t hurt, either.
Edley’s
East: 908 Main St., Nashville. 615-873-4085
12South: 2706 12th Avenue South, Nashville. 615-953-2951
Edley’s has one of those slick buildings that basically turns into a convertible when the weather turns warm. The walls are more like doors, so the indoor space and the outdoor space are nicely connected, letting the sun-worshippers soak up all the rays well into August while those of us with latent vampire tendencies can still take in the A/C while enjoying the outdoor view from a slight distance. It doesn’t hurt that barbecue and fixin’s go with outdoors like politicians and plausible deniability. And oh, what barbecue it is. We’re talking a low and slow until the meat’s so tender it almost melts in your mouth. Don’t miss: the pulled pork or the brisket. Barbecue is a very personal thing, but you won’t regret either choice.
The Yellow Porch
734 Thompson Lane, Nashville. 615-386-0260.
You can scarcely have the word “porch” in your name without boasting a decent al fresco situation, right? The Yellow Porch is prepared, with a rustic, intimate covered outdoor seating area. It’s right in keeping with the vibe of the restaurant, which is definitely romantic for evening. It’s also a laid back place to have a business lunch, where you can prod your boss for a raise over a quinoa black bean burger or some chicken salad. She’ll feel so relaxed back she’ll probably say yes. Come back later with your honey to celebrate with dinner entrees like filet mignon, cardamom and ginger rubbed lamb chops or the perfectly-spiced paella. Do make reservations, and don’t miss: the vanilla bean crème brulee for dessert.
Farmers Market
900 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., Nashville. 615-880-2001.
You come for the fresh produce, trucked in from area farms. That helps you shop seasonally and support your local farmers. Plus you can satisfy gardening jones at Gardens of Babylon. But you can support your local restaurants here, too. On any given sunny day, you can choose cuisines from around the world — Swagruha for Indian, Jamaicaway for Jamaican, B&C for good ol’ American barbecue — and grab a spot outside overlooking the Bicentennial Capitol Mall. Walk the mall after lunch to justify something sugary from The Sweet Stash, Butter Cake Babe or newly-opened Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. Come with a friend or two to secure your
spot and don’t miss: Bella Nashville, serving up some of the best pizza in town, with mozzarella made in-house and toppings sourced locally.
