Nashville's hidden treasures

Yep, this happens. So does controlling the urge to ask to babysit their kids.

I have a pretty legit obsession with Nashville. We all know it is one of the hottest cities right now (despite the disgusting winter we've had), but I think most of what I love about Music City is the off-the-beaten path gems I am still discovering, even after four years of living here.

Nashville is so much more than a tourist destination where you could potentially run into Keith Urban at a coffee shop... because let's get real, when you actually live here, you sign an imaginary social agreement that you will not stalk, gawk or try to awkwardly befriend celebrities in coffee shops - or anywhere. Ever. Period. A lot of outsiders do not quite understand this protocol - "No mom - we cannot go ask Nicole Kidman her skin-care regiment...BECAUSE MOM, it's NOT cool. Yes mom, being cool IS, in this case, important. MOM. THIS IS YOUR FINAL WARNING... PUT THE IPHONE AWAY..."

To me, Nashville is home. If you're looking to try something new or coming to visit and you'd like to know the places that whisper a subtle awesomeness that might not pop up on a googleable top ten list, then check out my list below of The Top Five Most Under the Radar Nashville Perks (in no particular order) - 

This can be your afternoon, minus the bulging skirt.

And if you're not a people person - this happens too.

1. Sevier Park [12 South Neighborhood & District] - It may not sound so in conversation, but in fact, Sevier Park is one of the most calming and welcoming spots to reconnect with nature and community. Grab Noah Calhoun (or the next best thing - the novel), a blanket, bottle of water (or a covert box of wine...), and prepare to be transported to a painting as you watch Nashvillian characters of all ages populate the rolling hills around you. There is a lovely plantation-style yellow house with green shutters at the peak of the park, trails for exploring, paved areas for biking and open grassy areas for frisbee games, all within walking distance of some of the most unique shops and renowned restaurants in town (yes - including the not so quietly popular Edley's BBQ , Josephine and Jeni's Icecream - all of which have lines out the door that rival Hillsboro's famous The Pancake Pantry). Oh, and let's not forget to mention you are literally across the street from gourmet popsicle heaven, Las Palatas. You don't need a novel to feel Gone with the Wind in this hidden gem.

2. The Corsair Brewery Artisan Taproom [Marathon Village] - I live and work literally a mile away from this historic craft beer brewpub attached to Nashville's first distillery since

Do not be deceived - not just for things with motors!

Prohibition, and I had no idea it even existed! This is a perfect underground happy hour spot to circle around the cozy bar with locals, or take one of their sixteen craft beers from microbreweries around the country to the outdoor patio, decorated with stringing lights. And if you're not a beer lover, their cider is TO DIE FOR. Tip: Go on a Tuesday or Wednesday for two for one drafts, and you might just forget you were even at work just hours before!

A perfect setting for my love affair with cheese.

3. Bella Napoli Pizzeria [Edgehill Village] - Okay, okay! I know most Nashvillian's know of this treasure - the first Neapolitan Style Pizzeria in Nashville, tucked back between the many store-fronts of the quaint Edgehill Village. But for those married to Soulshine or Desanos (or dare I say, Papa John's), you have to give the authentic flavors, presentation and charming ambiance of Bella Napoli's a try! Feast on one of owner Paolo Tramontano’s exquisite dishes crafted with ingredients imported from Naples and you may have a new favorite pizza place (my recommendation is the mouth-watering four-cheese blend of the Quattro Formaggi with a side of the red sauce for dipping - their red sauce is stupid good, and I have been known to spoon the leftovers into my mouth like soup... I'm just that classy). But, it goes beyond amazing flavors when you sit outside on the patio as the sun sets with a glass of red wine and enjoy the hums of Italian music floating in the spring air- it is hard not to feel as though you have been transported to a square abroad.

The best way to work off dinner - DANCING!

4. Mangia Nashville [Franklin] - Speaking of Italy, we cannot leave off the list one of my most favorite dining experiences for celebrating, meeting new people, and let's be honest - gaining the most deliciously worth it ten pounds in one sitting! And when I say "experience," I truly mean it - Mangia Nashville transforms Cool Cafe in Franklin into an authentically warm and charming Italian dining room only on Saturday nights. And, between each of the many delicious courses, the wait-staff, managers and Chef, play music, host dance lines and encourage everyone to celebrate amazing food among some of the most genuine and energetic company in town. Tip: You have to call ahead to make a reservation and your party is randomly sat at one of the long community tables to embark on a home-style Italian feast - so bring your friendliness in addition to your appetite! AND for those of you who know how to eat in moderation (myself excluded) you can ask for boxes to take some of the food home, so it can be the feast that keeps on giving!

I am all about a caffeinated good cause.

5. The Well Coffeehouse [Granny White Pike with a Brentwood location coming soon] - There are tons of coffee house options in Nashville (yes - some that even Keith Urban frequent...) but, The Well is truly special. It is a non-profit coffee house started by a group of friends who not only wanted to provide quality coffee and products to its community, but also to make a bold difference around the world. The Well donates a percentage of the profits to their two partners - Living Water Project and Blood:Water Mission - to provide clean water to the millions of people around the world in need. So the next time you are looking for a quiet place to read or reboot, check out The Well and pay it forward just by filling up your cup!

So there you have it friends! Some new places to check out around our lovely little town. And listen, if you know and love these places and think they are not so "under the radar," well then, I admittedly live under a rock - a true creature of habit, sometimes to a fault. But hopefully I have reached some Nashville newcomers or other rock dwellers out there who may need a change of pace and are sure to enjoy these many options right in our backyard.