Heartbreaking to say the least.
Another Nashville landmark has announced its tenure is coming to a close — marking another blow to Nashville locals. The 12 South Taproom first opened its doors in 2006, before the 12 South neighborhood was developed into the tourist scene it is today.
The city has experienced a massive boom in popularity over the past decade or so, drawing record numbers of both tourists and people moving to Music City. I grew up in Nashville, and while I don’t live there now, my folks still do, and every time I go home, I’m shocked by how different the town I grew up in is from what it used to be.
One of the most visible signs of the city’s growth has been Lower Broadway, the strip of bars in downtown Nashville that serves as a tourist destination and draws in millions of tourists every year to the dozens of bars located in a 5-block stretch. We’ve seen Broadway turn from family-owned honky tonks into massive 5-story bars that sell the country music industry, slapping names of stars across a billboard.
But Broadway isn’t the only neighborhood that has expereinced insane growth. The Gulch, 12 South, and The Nations have been gentrified, blown up, and are now pushing out some of the restaurants and storefronts that first put those neighborhoods on the map.
Today, a 12 South staple announced it will close its doors for the final time near the end of the month, breaking the hearts of Nashville locals and those who live in the neighborhood. 12 South Taproom shared that May 25 will be their final day in operation after nearly 20 years in business. I remember when the taproom first opened when I was a mere 7 years old, back when 12 South still had places like Katy K Designs, Las Paletas, and more still were operating in the neighborhood as well.
The taproom was casual dining that ensured good food, good brews, good company, and, lastly, great live music. The owners took to social media to share the heartbreaking news and write a love letter to those who have supported them over the years.
“Nashville, we cannot believe we are writing this post. As you’ve probably heard from others on the news or social media, our time has come to an end. Our last day will be May 25th. This truly feels like the passing of a loved one for those of us who have been here since day one, as well as those that just arrived. We love you with all of our hearts.
Will Shuff had a vision for this street and neighborhood in 2003 when opening 12 South Market and Deli. Then he had another vision and asked his friends to come along for the ride. 12 South Taproom opened June 6, 2006, in a much different 12 South, with no money, a lot of friends that helped build a bar, booths, tables, a hand-painted sign, and with a dream to serve the community with good beer and good food.
As owners, we were the main employees working day and night. Had no idea, really, what the heck we were doing. Babies were born, kids were raised, weddings (and divorces) happened, loved ones were lost, and friendships were made, that will last forever. Many of our employees have been here since day one. We’ve grown up together, with our employees and with our regulars.
From the epic Monday guitar jams from the likes of Guthrie Trapp, Pat Bergeson, Dave Pomeroy, Peter Hykra & the Gypsy Hombres, and Kenny Vaughn to bluegrass on the patio with Chris Cap & Friends, our little taproom will go down in history as some of the best live music ever in Nashville (for free). It was truly unbelievable, the musicians that showed up and blessed us with their presence.
These next few weeks are going to be hard. We are all grieving. Please allow our staff space to grieve. We know this is hard for you all, but it’s ten times harder for them. Your smiles and support are needed and greatly appreciated. We could go on and on, but we’ll stop here. We just ask to please keep supporting your favorite local restaurants and bars. Owning an independent restaurant in this town is not easy anymore (not that it ever was), but they need you now more than ever. Please support them as much as you can.
We love you and will miss you terribly. Love, Jamy and Will”
They are preaching to the choir when they say that Nashvillians need to keep supporting independently owned restaurants and bars. I’d hate to see another great local spot fall to the city that keeps changing. Until May 25, they will be fully operational, so go have one final pint at the legendary spot. 12 South Taproom will never be forgotten.
