For years Puffy Muffin has been winning over pastry lovers. Selling homemade bread, rolls, pastries and muffins, they have shown a passion for divine desserts. Even after 25 years, Puffy Muffin continues to be a staple for Nashvillians seeking impeccable pastries, desserts, and cookies. It's also a favorite of ladies who lunch - with their chicken salad, and crepes, they prove that Puffy Muffin is on par for excellency. Per their mission statement: "We exist to provide an environment of excellence that distinguishes us from others, being led by the Lord, to create opportunities for growth and to produce for our employees and guests an experience of our genuine appreciation and commitment to excellence."
Local Expert tip: Call ahead for a fast and easy order pick up.
A little more southern than pastry, Pancake Pantry is renowned for its sumptuous and delicious breakfast. This legendary breakfast joint near Vanderbilt University serves one of Nashville's tastiest morning meals, especially if you're in the mood for their signature pancakes. For a delicious initiation, smother an order with your topping of choice old-fashioned maple syrup, cinnamon-cream, or even raspberry cream. If you're really hungry and flapjacks just won't do, a waitress may be able to talk you into the Grill Cook's Medley fried potatoes smothered with eggs, cheese, peppers, and who knows what else! Be sure to pay attention for who comes through the door - famous faces are often spotted here.
Local Expert tip: The Pantry is the go-to for an unforgettable breakfast in Nashville. There's always a line, but it's well worth the wait.
Birthday, party, celebration coming your way? Then you need a cupcake solution to toast the day. The Cupcake Collection makes a fresh batch of these appealing edibles daily, using only the highest quality ingredients. Satisfy your sweet tooth by visiting the quaint Germantown location, which is housed in a cozy, renovated cottage. The daily selection varies but always includes tempting staples like red velvet, carrot, chocolate and strawberry. Look for unique, seasonally inspired options like sweet potato and wedding cake, too. Remember that all cupcakes were not created equal. Listen to your palate and don't be afraid to try something new.
Local Expert tip: Cupcakes were not created equal. Listen to your palate and don't be afraid to try something new.
In the heart of downtown Franklin, Merridee's is a treasure among bakeries. Serving only scratch-made products, it is no surprise that Merridee's Breadbasket is one of the most popular bakeries in the area. Satisfy your sweet tooth with heavenly homemade pies, brownies, cookies, cakes and various pastries. Merridee's is also a great place for breakfast and lunch, with everything from made-to-order omelets and homemade chicken salad sandwiches to ham and cheese baguettes and the classic Philly cheese steak. They're open from breakfast to dinner, and their sandwich and salad fare are as satisfying as their delicious baked goods. Try both, and don't forget to take a side of chocolate to go.
Local Expert tip: Pick up a loaf of their homemade bread to go. I vote for the oatmeal.
On of the staples and landmarks of Music City, if you are a donut aficionado, or just a fan of melt-in-your-mouth pastry, this is the place for you. Boasting a decades-long history, Fox's Donut Den is an icon among local bakeries. Their famous, freshly made donuts come in a variety of delectable flavors, such as glazed, chocolate, blueberry cake, Devil's food cake and maple. Other satisfying sweets include apple fritters, chocolate eclairs, cinnamon rolls and turnovers. This neighborhood bakery also offers a grand assortment of bagels and muffins, as well as kolaches. So don't be a stranger, and don't be afraid to sample more than one!
Local Expert tip: Two words: donut den.
When it comes to bakeries on the eastside, this neighborhood shop is a local favorite. Assorted scones, muffins, coffee cakes, cookies and other goodies are baked fresh daily, and unique cake flavors are sure to delight. The Elvis cake, which features banana cake layered with peanut butter cream and topped with cream cheese frosting, is a popular pick. Savory items are also available, and the Saturday morning egg casserole breakfast sandwich comes highly recommended. Walk off your full belly by browsing five points - there are a number of shops to peruse, from East Side Story Bookstore to Hello Cowboy and Goodbye Girl.
Local Expert tip: Try the Elvis Cake, just be sure to ask for a to-go box.