UPDATED 8/10/21
“The year’s last, loveliest smile,” wrote William Cullen Bryant of autumn long ago. As we continue to mask our own smiles, pandemically speaking, you’ll be all smiles enjoying the crisp breeze and gorgeous colors of fall while dining in the open air, or “al fresco” as our Italian friends would say. Clarksville restaurateurs representing palates from all walks are holding a seat for you this fall, and here are a few favorites to coax the loveliest of smiles.
4044 Highway 41A S
No one will leave thirsty from Sango’s newest local hot spot. A rotating selection of regional craft beer favorites on tap, a cooler filled with canned and bottled suds, along with a bevy of handcrafted coffees, teas, and cream sodas abound. Sip your favorite under the canopy of indigenous trees in the prettiest beer garden you ever did see. But, make no mistake. The house-made cracker crust pizzas and desserts aren’t just beer mops. These beauties are one of a kind. Also, check out the Danna Wode Studio original “Keep Sango Social” mural begging for your best insta pose.
Photo and header photo by J2 Photographs
2231 Madison Street, Suite A
Shop ‘til you drop at the 52,000 square-feet marketplace where you could probably find a pony if you looked hard enough. But, before you really do drop, scoot in over at the cafe where a menu of shopper’s favorites such as the Picky Eunice Salad and Uncle Red’s Reuben can be enjoyed on the spacious patio. Lunch is served daily. And the new Dinner with a Friend special dinner series on Thursdays 5-8 p.m. is quickly becoming a hit. Make sure to ask your server about the new seasonal beer and wine menu.
Photo by Melissa Corbin
1601 Madison Street
You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairy tale under the massive shade trees on the patio at The Mad Herbalist. Pick your concoction of specially blended, seasonal teas served hot, cold, or sparkling, along with a personalized tier of spreads, savories, and sweets. You can even make your own bath and beauty products that include personalized hand sanitizers. Special evening events like Brews and Bites or Bourbon and Smoke are a thing on the patio, especially with those inviting fire pits. But, come Sundays, brunch is the main event. Reservations are highly recommended.
Photo by Lindsay Ferrier
Yellowtail Robata Grill and Sushi
2509 Wilma Rudolph Boulevard
Every town has an interstate-adjacent “chain row” with all your usual suspects when it comes to eats. But, Clarksville likes to mix it up a bit with indy favorites like Yellowtail living harmoniously amongst national brands. And, while your patio view of the traffic isn’t necessarily picturesque, it’s the only sushi joint in town offering outdoor seating to enjoy the freshest of creative sushi and other Japanese delicacies. Opt for a lunch of the classics, or perhaps be wowed by flaming rolls under the stars.
Photo by Melissa Corbin
103 Strawberry Alley
A staple in historic downtown for celebrations and straight up fun times, the brewery’s expansive craft selection pairs with a chef-inspired menu of “remarkably new, yet remarkably familiar” fare. And, while Upstairs features vintage games like corn hole and shuffleboard, it’s the large patios on both floors boasting knockout views of downtown and the Cumberland River. You’ll also have the perfect vantage point of what it must have been like for a real life Rosie the Riveter, as the building used to be home to a World War II shirt factory.
Photo by Odinn Media
125 Marina Way
After a long day at the office, a paddle on the Cumberland River, or perhaps a long walk on the Liberty Park Walking Trail, kick up your heels on Liberty Park Grill’s spacious patio overlooking the Clarksville Marina. Serving casual American classics, including steak and seafood, it’s the view any time of year that will reaffirm your liberty to choose. And, to choose the fresh air that dining outdoors offers at eateries like this beautiful waterfront destination, you’ll be glad you did.
As you plan a safe, fun and memorable trip to Clarksville, know that all of our attractions, restaurants, hotels and parks have been taking extra precautions so you can travel safely. Please help us keep Clarksville a safe destination by doing your part to observe recommended guidelines for masks, social distancing and frequent handwashing.
