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“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.”
“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.”