Pop quiz: If you could transform a former car wash into anything of your choosing, what would it be? 💭

A coffee shop? A vintage clothing store? If you’re local developer Tyler Cauble, it’s an outdoor food hall with five microrestaurants + one microbar called The Wash.

Join us as we navigate the new food destination, share dishes we tried at each restaurant, and offer pro tips to make the most of your dining experience.

How it works

Our journey begins in East Nashville — specifically 1101 McKennie Ave. — where the The Wash faces Gallatin Avenue. The space features walk-up windows for ordering + a large outdoor patio. As for ambiance, the fireplace and overhead string lights create the perfect backdrop for spring and summer dinner outings.

Mix-and-match tacos with Tootsie Lou's taco box. | Photo by NASHtoday

Meet the restaurants

Now let’s talk about what you’ll be eating. All of the restaurants have soft-launched, but a grand opening is scheduled for Sat., April 30. Pro tip: Most restaurants offer online ordering if you plan to grab-and-go.

If some of the eateries sound familiar, maybe you’ve tried them before as food trucks or pop-up restaurants (looking at you Two Peruvian Chefs, Soy Cubano, and Tootsie Lou’s). Here’s the full list and what we tried:

Be sure to check out the specials board at Two Peruvian Chefs. | Photo by NASHtoday

Bay 1: 2 Peruvian Chefs | Authentic Peruvian street food

What we tried: Empanada + purple corn pudding

Bay 2: Soy Cubano | Cuban fare in the form of sandwiches, empanadas + more

What we tried: Cuban sandwich

Bay 3: The Poki | Hawaiian poké bowls with a twist

What we tried: Hau'oli Salmon Bowl

Bay 4: Tootsie Lou's Tacos | Specialty tacos, sides, and sweets

What we tried: Adobo chicken, roasted carrot + sweet potato tacos

Bay 5: East Side Pho | Pho concept from the owners of East Side Banh Mi

What we tried: Veggie Bun Rieu soup

Bay 6: Bay 6 Cocktail Bar | Intimate bar serving cocktails, beer, and wine

What we want to try: Penultimate Warrior (bourbon, white Earl Grey, apricot, and lavender)

Pro tip: Parking is limited, so plan to walk, bike, or park somewhere nearby.