Located inside the City County Building, this café might fly under the radar unless you work nearby, but it’s worth a stop. It’s a low-key, affordable option downtown with solid breakfast wraps, sandwiches, and deli-style favorites. What makes it special is its view of the Tennessee River, which adds a peaceful touch to your meal.
Tucked inside the Riverview Tower, this café-style market is technically for building tenants and clients, but if you’ve got access, it’s a hidden gem for a quick, well-made breakfast. They’ve got solid coffee, a range of cold drinks, and hot breakfast selections that beat anything you’ll find at a gas station or chain.
Stay Golden offers a bright and modern atmosphere perfect for remote work. With a menu featuring unique coffee drinks and a selection of breakfast and lunch options, it's a favorite among locals. The staff is friendly, and the rotating seasonal coffee flavors keep things interesting.
Located at 4101 Charlotte Ave, Barista Parlor offers a modern coffee experience with a focus on quality and design. The café provides a variety of coffee drinks, including the popular whiskey caramel latte. With a clean and stylish interior, it's an inviting space to work or meet with others. The outdoor seating area adds to its appeal, especially on pleasant days.
Tucked into the ground floor of a residential building, Prickly Pear delivers a calm, welcoming vibe. Their banana bread and blueberry muffins are local favorites, and the coffee is consistently solid. With a focus on sustainability and community, it’s ideal for working or relaxing with a purpose. The space is simple but thoughtful, just like their menu.
This popular brunch spot pairs its well-loved Southern dishes with a vibrant, upbeat energy. Known for buttery biscuits and inventive plates like shrimp and grits, it’s a staple for Gulch mornings. The lines can be long on weekends, but service moves fast and efficiently. A great pick for a full breakfast with coffee in hand.
A lively spot with an all-day brunch menu and something for everyone. The chicken and waffles are crowd-pleasers, and the juice bar adds a fresh touch. The space is bright, family-friendly, and usually packed for good reason. Expect a wait, but the food and atmosphere deliver every time.
This one’s a local staple. Sam & Zoe’s has been serving up locally roasted coffee, fresh-baked pastries, and homemade lunch fare in Berry Hill for years. The atmosphere is warm, familiar, and perfect for catching up with a colleague or digging into a writing session. There’s plenty of seating inside and out, including a cozy patio for nicer days.
While technically more of a café-meets-French-bakery, Little Gourmand makes the list for its polished charm and great food. It’s the kind of place you’d take a label rep or a client you want to impress with something a little more elevated than the average coffee run. The pastries are high-end and made fresh daily, the sandwiches are worth staying for, and the staff is genuinely kind.
This market-café hybrid is a low-key spot for a quick, satisfying bite and coffee. They serve classic comfort food like cheeseburgers, fries, chicken sandwiches, and even lasagna, all freshly made and well-priced. The coffee’s straightforward and good, and if you're in a rush or just need to fuel up before an event at the convention center, this is one of the most convenient stops in the area.
Just Love is one of those places where you can get your caffeine fix, grab a bite, and even bring your kids. It’s bright, casual, and packed with friendly energy. The prices here are refreshingly reasonable, especially considering the food menu is stacked with waffles, wraps, and breakfast bowls. There’s plenty of seating and even a few games, which add to the relaxed vibe.
While renowned for its Southern-style biscuits and hearty breakfast options, Maple Street Biscuit Company also offers a bright and clean space that's conducive to work. The friendly staff and efficient service make it easy to grab a meal and settle in with your laptop. The chicken biscuit with pepper jelly is a standout, and the overall atmosphere is great.
Just a short walk from the heart of 12 South, 8th & Roast offers a cozy, urban setting with exposed brick walls and a warm ambiance. The café is known for its expertly brewed light roast drip coffee and a selection of seasonal drinks. The seating arrangement includes community tables and bar seating, catering to both solo workers and small groups.
Bringing a taste of the islands to Nashville, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii offers a spacious and relaxed environment perfect for extended work sessions. The interior is adorned with Hawaiian-themed decor, creating a laid-back vibe. Their 100% Kona coffee, prepared via French press, is a highlight, offering a smooth and rich flavor profile.
Ugly Mugs has been a go-to neighborhood café in East Nashville for years, and it continues to be a reliable spot for remote workers and creatives looking for a comfortable place to land. The space is bright and open with plenty of seating, making it easy to spend a few hours working, reading, or meeting with friends.
Living Waters Coffee Bar offers a unique blend of specialty coffee and craft beer. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for getting work done or simply relaxing. Their commitment to high-quality products and genuine hospitality ensures a welcoming experience for all patrons. It's an ideal spot for those seeking a creative workspace with a twist.
This place isn’t technically a café, but it’s a Germantown landmark that deserves a mention. Go for the family-style Southern breakfast—fried chicken, biscuits, and cornbread, passed around long tables. You’ll leave stuffed and maybe a little nostalgic. It’s ideal when you want brunch with a side of tradition.
This sleek, industrial-style café offers strong coffee, fresh pastries, and just enough seating to settle in. The vibe is relaxed, and their espresso drinks are consistently excellent. It’s a neighborhood favorite for good reason. The seasonal menu always has a few surprises worth trying.