Hendersonville Hotspots
There’s something incredibly special about the relationship between hairstylists and their clients. Oftentimes, these relationships last longer than most romantic relationships, even marriages. Within 30 minutes of sitting down, I’ve already spilled the tea. Family drama, dates, gossip, you name it, and we’ve talked about it.
Several years ago, my beloved stylist left Parlour 3 to spend more time with her family and have a shorter commute. Trust me, if you have ever driven in Nashville during peak traffic times, I know you understand. I didn’t care where she was going, I was going to follow her. Fortunately, she was moving just a few miles up the road to a salon in Hendersonville.
For those of you who don’t venture out of the Nashville bubble often, Hendersonville is about 25 minutes north of downtown Nashville. Aside from using these trips to maintain my blonde locks, I’ve spent time exploring the local food scene in Hendersonville, and let me tell you- it does not disappoint. Today, I am sharing a few of the favorites that have me visiting Hendersonville on repeat.
Lyncoya Cafe was the first restaurant that I visited in Hendersonville. I joined a Facebook group called Eat Hendersonville, where locals share their favorite establishments and dishes, and of course, Lyncoya Cafe was popping up on repeat.
From Peggy’s Pot Roast to the Poutine appetizer, there’s truly a dish for everyone. Make sure you bring your appetite because the portions aren’t for the faint of heart.
After spending a solid ten minutes perusing the menu and watching the servers run plate after plate out of the kitchen, I decided to order fan-favorite, the Firecracker, with extra pickles, of course. This spicy chicken sandwich is one of the best that I’ve had my hands on recently. For those concerned about the heat level, it’s not from an episode of Hot Ones, you’ll easily survive. Let’s talk about that Poutine. No, we may not be in Canada, but considering I’ve sampled my fair share, I’d easily say this is in my top 10 poutines- EVER. The gravy is plentiful but doesn’t make the fries soggy, and if you’re lucky, there might be little bits of pot roast throughout.
Make sure you save room for dessert because one thing you don’t want to miss is their homemade pie. They will feature their swoon-worthy sweets on Instagram from time to time, and when they do, you better jump on it. The last time I dined with them, I had a chance to sample their Key Lime Pie, and it was like something my grandmother used to make. DELICIOUS!
If Lyncoya Cafe has not been on your radar, here’s your sign.
Lyncoya Cafe | Poutine | Scratch Gravy + Fries + Melted Cheese Curds
Lyncoya Cafe | Firecracker Sandwich | Spicy Fried Chicken + House Ranch + Crispy Onion Strings + Dill Pickle + Shredded Lettuce + Sesame Seed Bun
I am a firm believer that food brings people together. It’s how we build relationships, make friends, celebrate momentous occasions, and have thought-provoking conversations. When I was visiting Nations restaurants, Nicky’s Coal Fired, one of my favorite people there, Jeffrey, told me about a Thai restaurant that he visited often when he would go home to see his parents in Hendersonville. He raved about the entire menu and gave me a play-by-play of what to order.
Blossom & Cellar Door is not a restaurant that is likely to catch your eye from the road. My Hendersonville natives may recall that it’s in the same location as the old skating rink. However, don’t be fooled by this unassuming establishment. It’s an absolute gem.
First things first, you can’t visit Blossom & Cellar Door without ordering the Lao Beef Jerky with Sticky Rice (featured below). The beef marinates for days in Chef’s Seng’s blend of ginger, sesame, and magic. Pair it with the sticky rice, and your eyes will be rolling to the back of your head. Next, we ordered Angel Wings, which are an entree size portion. These wings are stuffed with seasoned minced chicken, bean thread noodles, red and green onion, battered, fried, and sliced, and served with a sweet cucumber chili sauce. If wings aren’t your things, I’d recommend ordering the Red Curry. Guests can choose their heat level, and it’s served with a side of steamed rice.
For my craft beer enthusiasts, Blossom & Cellar Door has one of the best craft beer selections that I’ve ever seen. To be honest, I think the beer menu had more options than their food menu!
One of the biggest complaints I hear from Nashvillians is that they can’t find good Thai food. Hop in your car and head to Hendersonville, folks. Blossom & Cellar Door won’t disappoint. The chef puts a great deal of effort into each dish, so this is probably not the place you want to visit if you are in a rush. Grab your friends and order several dishes and share them with the table so you can sample all the things!
Thanks, Jeffrey for the fantastic recommendation!
Blossom & Cellar Door Craft Cavern | Lao Beef Jerky + Sticky Rice
Blossom & Cellar Door Craft Cavern | Red Curry
Over the past several months, I’ve heard rumblings about Rosie Food & Wine. Known as one of the top finding dining establishments in Hendersonville, Rosie Food & Wine specializes in Italian and Spanish fare. Owners Andy Hayes and Beth Owens have proven that an enjoyable atmosphere, creative beverage program, and an extraordinary menu all go hand in hand.
Rosie Food & Wine grabbed my attention when I found out they offered monthly wine classes as well as the occasional wine dinner. As a self-proclaimed oenophile, I never pass up the opportunity to learn more about wine. (Curious about the wine tasting and classes? Click HERE for more information.)
Aside from the fantastic wine selection, Rosie’s had some great dishes, and rest assured, it will be a tough decision. I had heard incredible things about the Burrata, and it did not disappoint along with the Brussels Sprouts, which were served with sherry agrodolce. Talk about an OMG moment. For those who get a little too crazy with the starters, pasta dishes are available in two sizes. We ordered two of the smaller portions, and it was absolutely plenty, and it allowed room for dessert, which is a must when dining here. We ordered the Rigatoni and the Black Fettucine, and of the two, the Rigatoni was the standout.
If you are looking for a place to grab a glass of wine after work and unwind or catch up with friends, Rosie Food & Wine is the perfect spot. Reservations can be made via Tock or simply give them a call, and they will be happy to assist. Perhaps I’ll see you at their next wine class!
Rosie Food & Wine | Burrata | Butternut Squash Agrodolce
Rosie Food & Wine | Rigatoni | Peas + Italian Sausage
I don’t know about you, but sometimes a change of scenery is necessary. Whether you are looking to explore a new restaurant outside of your neighborhood or perhaps you want to escape the “new” Nashville, head to Hendersonville and check out one of these fantastic restaurants. I am just beginning to explore the food scene in Hendersonville, and I excited to see what’s in store.
If you have any favorite restaurants or dishes at a particular establishment, please share those in the comments!
Until Next Time!