Greg H.
Yelp
Nashville, Indiana is a hidden gem in the state. Known for arts and crafts community, Nashville has also become a foodies delight. The Bird's Nest Cafe used to be a retail store that sold home decorations but was turned in to a cafe a few years ago. They focus on scratch made foods, with a twist sometimes. Everything I have ever tried there has been great! When you walk up to where the cafe is, you'll find a garden. Not a vegetable garden but a nice cottage garden. Walk under a trellis and no a path that curves around tables where you can sit when the weather is nice. Once you reach the front door and walk in, you are greeted with a nice homey feel. The staff at the Bird's Nest is great! They are nice, warm, and friendly. The cafe is actually an old home, which is typical for a lot of places in Nashville. It has a a worn with love wood floor, thick walls, and feel of home.
The Bird's Nest has a simple menu. Their menu also changes seasonly. So, what I am writing about may not be on the menu during the winter. That is to say it is well rounded and not overwhelming. All of the selections sound and look delicious! I am going to review the Green Tomato BLT and the Blueberry Lemon Griddlecakes.
I am going to venture to say that green tomatoes are not a big thing in Indiana. Not to say that no one knows what they are. I am sure everyone does, but the Bird's Nest is the only place I have ever seen a green tomato BLT. Toasted bread, crisp lettuce, thick, well-cooked bacon, topped with fried green tomatoes... yum! They slather a layer of homemade pesto mayo on the bread to top it all off. The sandwich is served with your choice of "Joe's" chips, slaw, or fruit. I have the fried green tomato BLT on a regular basis when I am in Nashville. I only live an hour and a half away, so that is quite often! One time I was driving through in the morning, on a business trip so I had to stop. I also stopped at the Nashvile Spice shop to see my friends and grab some salami, artisan cheese, and crackers for dinner that evening. I noticed this meal called Blueberry Lemon Griddlecakes, and just had to try them. For those of you who might be wondering what in the world is a griddlecake, think pancake but much better. Griddlecakes are usually made with whole grain flour which imparts a nice flavor. Add blueberries, and a hint of lemon and you have blueberry lemon griddle cakes. The griddle cakes are served with local Fisher Farms bacon, which is some of the best bacon I have had, and I have consumed a lot of bacon in my life time! The griddlecakes are served on a plate with a bluebery compote and lemon drizzle. No butter is needed! They are fluffy, full of flavor, and very filling. They are now my go to for breakfast when I am in Nashville of a morning.
I can't say enough about the Bird's Nest Cafe, though reading this review might make you think otherwise... lol. Please go try the Bird's Nest Cafe the next time you are in Nashville. Spring, summer, and fall are busy times for the town, but don't forget winter. Yes, some of the stores are closed for the winter but Nashville takes on this slow, peaceful, vibe in the winter and is magical. They can get busy so make reservations or be prepare to wait a while. Though, things do slow down in the winter. Be sure to check out their website to make sure they are openon the day you will be in town. Winter hours can and do vary.