Glencliff - Nashville, TN

The Glencliff neighborhood remained undeveloped and consisted mostly of fertile farmland until the 1940s, at which point economic growth in the Nashville region created the demand for more housing in close proximity to the city center. As the neighborhood grew, many residents decided to start their own businesses right in Glencliff, fomenting a close-knit and distinctive community.

Even in today's fast-paced culture, Glencliff retains its charm from yesteryear. Many neighborhood residents prefer to shop and dine locally, and Glencliff has mostly staved off a takeover in the retail and restaurant industries by chain establishments.

Glencliff lacks museums or an arts scene, but its convenient location enables residents to take in all of Nashville's cultural offerings which include the Grand Ole Opry, Music Row, and the Frist Center for the Visual Arts.

An eclectic mix of ethnic haunts, kitschy cafes, mom-and-pop burger joints and chain restaurants ensures plenty of dining options without leaving the Glencliff area. While Glencliff contains no centralized district for dining and entertainment, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues sprinkle the entire neighborhood.

Norman Couser's Country Cooking provides heaping portions of country favorites that taste as if they were prepared at home by a Southern matriarch. The atmosphere ranks second to none in friendliness and hospitality, so don't be surprised if you're on a first-name basis with your wait staff by the end of your meal. Food choices span a wide gamut, from meat loaf to fried catfish to spaghetti. For an extra treat, don't forget to order a pitcher of sweet iced tea with your meal.

Tickle your palate by trying out one of Glencliff's multitude of ethnic eateries, such as the highly-rated Gojo Ethiopian Cafe and Restaurant. If you can handle spicy, be sure to sample the awaze tibs prime beef marinated in hot sauce, cooked to order, and then seasoned with yet more hot spices and herbs. The yebeg alicha deserves a try for those who prefer a milder entree. This favorite dish consists of tender lamb seasoned with mild sauce, ginger and garlic. Enjoy a sit-down meal at Gojo, or if you're in a hurry, ask for take-out or delivery. You can even order online through the restaurant's website.

Many residents consider La Hacienda Taqueria the best Mexican restaurant in all of Nashville. Known for its mixed drink specials, expansive menu options, and authentic south-of-the-border ambiance, La Hacienda has a reputation for taking diners who pop in out of curiosity and quickly making them regulars. Sip on a giant frozen margarita and chow down on one of the 30 combo platters, such as two soft tacos and an enchilada. If you sleep in one morning, don't worry that you missed breakfast. La Hacienda allows you to order from the breakfast menu all day long. Nightlife in the Glencliff neighborhood consists mostly of local dive bars. If you're a fan of pool, be sure to check out TNTS Billiards Bar & Grill. This popular sports bar has televisions broadcasting all the games for fans from near and far. TNTS caters to the over-21 crowd, and smoking is allowed at the bar. If sports don't interest you, stop in on a Tuesday for open-mic comedy night, or pick an evening to try out your vocals at karaoke, which the bar hosts four nights a week. For those weekends when you crave more action, drive up the interstate to downtown Nashville, which provides an abundance of live music and dancing.

Glencliff features hilly terrain and narrow roads that aren't conducive to walking or biking long distances. Cars remain the most common mode of transportation for residents. Abundant free parking and easy access to Interstate 24 and downtown Nashville make driving in Glencliff a breeze.

If you're without a car, Nashville's MTA bus system provides many stops in the Glencliff area, and numerous taxi companies operate within the neighborhood. You have to call them to arrange a pick-up, as hailing a cab isn't an option. Uber also maintains a presence in Glencliff and throughout the Nashville metro.

Coleman Park stands as the largest community park in the Glencliff neighborhood. Offering a full-service fitness center, exercise classes, and plentiful outdoor recreation including walking and running trails, Coleman Park is popular with adults and children alike. A day pass costs $3, but you can purchase a monthly or yearly membership that knocks down your cost-per-visit significantly.

At Coleman Park, you have access to numerous annual sporting events, such as a 5K road race. Also consider joining one of its competitive or recreational sports leagues.

Enjoy a picnic and the great outdoors at Whitsett Park, a little gem of a park in Glencliff where parking and admission are free. This park provides no high-end amenities such as exercise facilities or a concession stand, but it offers an excellent place to throw a Frisbee around with your dog.

The cost of living in Glencliff remains lower than the city's average, especially compared to neighborhoods situated a similar distance from downtown Nashvillle. The average rental rate sits at $818 per month, though one-bedroom apartments can be rented for as low as $600 per month. Expect to pay $1.70 for a bus ticket to downtown Nashville and $2.75 for a beer in a Glencliff bar. Gas prices in Glencliff hover at 7 percent lower than the national average.

Glencliff doesn't feature a centralized shopping district or high-end retail stores. However, Nashville provides numerous shopping destinations within close proximity. Upscale centers include The Mall at Green Hills and Opry Mills, an expansive indoor network of outlets and discount stores. Residents also make the short trip south to Lenox Village to visit its boutiques and specialty shops.

La Vie En Rose Cottage serves as a favorite Lenox Village destination for chic home furnishings and accessories. Enjoy friendly service as you browse the stylish selection. Check out the custom-made upholstered headboards and bedding, or stock up on homemade soaps and designer candles for the bathroom. Tickle your decorating bone with lighted flowers and glass pendants.

Paint + Canvas hosts painting classes that Glencliff locals flock to for date nights or girls' nights out. The shop has friendly instructors and happily pours you and your friends a glass of wine to make the outing more special. Classes for kids give the younger set a chance to develop some artistic talents.

Glencliff residents enjoy numerous destinations for large grocery trips, including Aldi on Nolensville Pike and Kroger on East Thompson Lane. Sulav International Market on Nolensville Pike provides a broad selection of cuisine and accoutrements from around the globe. The large Nashville Farmers' Market justifies the short trip downtown to pick up fresh fruits and veggies.