🍽️ September's best new restaurants

😋 Celebrate Nashville’s International Communities

The Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition is hard at work ensuring our city is a welcoming place for all, and they have a delicious way to get involved in their mission this weekend. [🎧 City Cast Nashville]

🤱 Nov. 5 Candidates on Reproductive Rights

Many Nashville voters are concerned about reproductive health, with the majority in favor of abortion rights. Nashville Banner asked Nov. 5 Tennessee election candidates where they stand on reproductive health legislation, and while Democratic candidates responded, Republicans declined to answer. [Nashville Banner]

📚 Books Disappearing From School Libraries

A recently revised state law broadening the definition of prohibited school library materials is leading educators and librarians to quietly remove books before any potential complaints. More than 1,100 titles have been removed, with more under review. [Chalkbeat Tennessee]

• The Rutherford County Board of Education is having a meeting tonight at 5:30 p.m. to discuss banning 9 books. [Rutherford County Schools]

👮 Metro Council Approves Zero-Tolerance Resolution

In August, the Community Review Board (CRB) wrote a zero-tolerance sexual harassment policy for the MNPD to address numerous complaints. During Tuesday’s Metro Council meeting, councilmembers unanimously approved a non-binding resolution recommending the policy be adopted, though the MNPD say they already have a policy. [WKRN]

• What’s the CRB? CRB chair Alisha Haddock explains on the City Cast Nashville podcast. [🎧 City Cast Nashville]

Hungry? Every month, Jenn Harbin, the creator of The Hungry Loner, is rounding up the best new restaurants and bars in Nashville. Here are her favorites!

Choy

Choy beautifully blends the nostalgia of mid-20th century Shanghai with a modern edge. This North Gulch newcomer isn’t your standard Chinese-American cuisine — Tennessee-sourced ingredients give the food a local touch, while the flavors stay true to their roots. The combined expertise of Michelin-star Consulting Chef Brandon Jew and Executive Chef Brian Griffith shines through every dish, from the crowd-pleasing Peking duck to the flavorful beef chow fun. Start with an inventive cocktail like the gin-based Golden Gate with Ming River baijiu, Mancino Secco, and maraschino. Don't miss the squid ink pork wontons or the fluffy scallion pancake, and finish your meal with the sorghum ma lai go, a light and fluffy steamed sponge cake.

Golden Sound

Located in the Gulch, Golden Sound is more than just a bar — it’s a tribute to Nashville’s rich musical history, where the past mingles effortlessly with the present. Once a 1960s recording studio, the creative energy still lingers: inside, you're greeted by the soft glow of intimate lighting, leather banquettes that beckon for long conversations, and a spacious bar that’s ready for you to pull up a seat and stay a while. As a toast to this venue’s vibrant roots, try a champagne cocktail or creative concoction from the “Spirits of Mexico” menu, like the Rocky Top with mezcal, sherry, Cointreau, lime, and black salt.

Torchy’s Tacos

When Mike Rypka first launched Torchy’s Tacos, it was a humble food truck parked in downtown Austin. Seventeen years later, the brand has exploded to over 100 locations across 14 states, including our new Midtown location. Known for their green chile queso and scratch-made tacos featuring creative, globally sourced ingredients, their packed menu is served in a fun, friendly atmosphere. Each flavorful bite proudly upholds their “Damn Good” mantra, from their beloved fried chicken-stuffed trailer park taco to the smoky, indulgent crossroads brisket taco. Don’t miss out on the hidden gems, like the secret menu’s green chile pork missionary-style taco: A mouthwatering combo of tender carnitas wrapped in a double tortilla for the perfect crunch. Pair it all with their crispy chips, gooey queso, and a refreshing margarita.