Since moving to Nashville in 2019, Hany Mukhtar has settled in and found the spots that make the city feel like home. The star midfielder for Major League Soccer’s Nashville SC shares some of his favorites.
Less"Aba is my go-to when I want to treat myself. The Mediterranean flavors are incredible and the atmosphere is buzzing. I always start with the Muhammara. That roasted red pepper and walnut dip is so good! And you have to try the Lamb & Beef Kefta Kebab. Seriously, the best I've ever had. It's a guaranteed great night."
"Franklin Bridge is where I go to unwind. It's a public course, and it's always in great shape. It's challenging enough to keep me interested. I love that it's family-friendly too. I've taken my son out there a few times, and he loves riding in the cart. Plus, the 18th hole is a beast! Try not to land in the water!"
"If I need a caffeine fix and good vibes, I head to Haraz. Their coffee is the real deal. It’s rich and flavorful. It's not your typical latte. I always get the Qishr, it's like a warm hug in a mug. The guys who work there are super passionate and always make me feel welcome. It's a great place to meet friends or just chill."
"12 South is one of my favorite neighborhoods, and The Henry fits right in. It's stylish, lively, and the food is always on point. I love grabbing brunch there on a Sunday. The Short Rib Benedict is my go-to. Their cocktails are amazing too. It's the perfect spot to people-watch and soak up the energy."
"I discovered Tashtea a few months ago, and now I'm hooked on their Turkish breakfast. It's such a unique experience! Forget your typical eggs and bacon. Try the Menemen, it's a tomato-based scrambled egg dish with peppers and spices. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting."
"Okay, you HAVE to try The Horn. It's a hidden gem in Midtown. They serve authentic Somali coffee and snacks, and it's unlike anything else in Nashville. The Somali chai is rich, but the real star is the sambusas. They're like little crispy pockets of deliciousness. The vibe is super chill and welcoming."
"Don't let the name fool you, Only Chicken is about SO much more than just chicken! They have some seriously flavorful Mediterranean and Turkish-inspired dishes. Their chicken balls and chicken rolls are crispy, seasoned perfectly, and addictive. It's a great spot for a quick and tasty lunch or dinner."
“No visit to Nashville would be complete without experiencing Geodis Park. As home to Nashville SC, it has an electric atmosphere. The energy and community spirit give visitors an unforgettable experience. You can always count on us to put on an amazing show.”
“One of my top spots is Baam Burger downtown. It’s where I like to go with friends and my wife to celebrate after a good game (plus, they’re open until 3 a.m. on weekends). Their Baam Burger is incredible, made with fresh ingredients. When I’m in the mood to celebrate, I always treat myself to one of their shakes.”
“Another place I really like is Edessa. Don’t let the low-key vibes fool you. I have a lot of Turkish friends, and I love the food and this place does it right. It’s my go-to spot on those nights when we’re not up for cooking. The beyti is my favorite. It’s packed with flavor. The lahmacun is a great appetizer. And for dessert, don’t miss out on their kunafa—it’s a must-try.”
“No Nashville list is complete without Loveless Cafe. It’s the ultimate spot for Southern comfort food. I enjoy bringing visitors and family here for good food and great company. My go-to is the fried chicken with fried okra and coleslaw, and I always spice things up with their hot sauce—it’s a must on everything.”
“When I’m not training with my club, I like running at Radnor Lake. The greenery, the wildlife, and the lake take you out of the city hustle. It’s the perfect place for a good run.”
“I enjoy spending time outdoors, and if you wander outside of Nashville toward central Tennessee, you’ll find some amazing day-trip destinations. Fall Creek Falls is one of my family’s favorite spots. My wife and I like to take our two dogs and go for a hike that goes to a waterfall. It’s definitely one of my favorite places to enjoy nature around Nashville. The waterfall is amazing, and it’s something you don’t see in Berlin, where I’m from.”
“I like to take my two dogs to Two Rivers Dog Park. They love it there. This place is extra large, with lots of shade and grass and a scenic path that wraps around the park. Our dogs have a blast—and everybody there is super-chill.”
“One place I always take visitors in Nashville is to the Country Music Hall of Fame. It’s a must-see that gives visitors the whole story of country music and its legends. It really shows the heart and soul of Nashville’s music scene.”
“Elusive Studio is where I get my hair cut and groomed. It’s become a favorite spot for my team too. If you’re looking to go to a great barber, Anas is your guy.”
“Broadway is where the city comes alive at night. I don’t go out a lot, but when I have friends visiting, Broadway is the spot to show them Nashville’s one-of-a-kind nightlife. You’ll find lots of live music and people wearing boots and cowboy hats—it’s got a special vibe that Europe doesn’t have, that’s for sure.”
“When it’s time to celebrate in Nashville, you’ve got to go to Pinewood Social. It’s not just a place for dining and socializing; it’s where my wife threw me a surprise party that I’ll never forget. You can bowl with friends and enjoy good food.”
“One place in Nashville that has many special memories for me is the rooftop of my home in the Gulch neighborhood. We’ve watched fireworks light up the sky, introduced my visiting family from Berlin to the fun of roasting s’mores, hosted BBQs with friends, and spent nights watching movies. Since not everyone can visit my rooftop, I recommend checking out the rooftop at L.A. Jackson for almost the same amazing view. It’s a spot that captures the vibe of Nashville's skyline."