My Nashville: Benjamin Goldberg

If you’re not familiar with Benjamin Goldberg — but honestly, who isn’t? — you’re likely acquainted with one of his many dining destinations. As the founder and co-owner of Strategic Hospitality, Benjamin is responsible for bringing culinary hot spots like Pinewood Social, Patterson House and Bastion to Nashville. When he’s not dreaming up new ideas with his brother, Max, Benjamin can be found spending time with his wife of seven years, Tara, and their two children in their neighborhood of 12South. He also gives back to the community that he’s called home since the age of 10 by serving on the boards of Rochelle Center, Temple Ohabai Sholom and Leadership Nashville. Find out how this man about town would spend the idyllic weekend in Nashville (assuming he actually had two days off).

DAY ONE

7 a.m. — Up and at 'em

Wake up and head to Frothy Monkey for coffee and emails. I live in the neighborhood, which is always so busy now, especially on the weekends, so I would probably take a little walk around while it’s still quiet and just enjoy the sights and sounds of a quiet Saturday morning in 12South. 

8:30 a.m. — Classic American breakfast

Breakfast at Waffle House on Sidco. The people there are so friendly [that] I feel like I’m having breakfast with a bunch of friends. They are also always in awe of how much my 18-month-old son can eat — as am I. I haven’t decided yet if this is a good thing or not! 

9:30 a.m. — Out in nature

I’d then pack up the fam and we would drive out to our land in Hickman County. There are several ways to get there, but I prefer to take Natchez Trace, which is such a beautiful drive. When we get there, we would hike around, play in the creek and let the kids run. It’s so nice to be able to put them in nature and just let them be kids — get dirty, explore and imagine. On the way back, we would take a different route and stop at The Beacon Light for a late lunch. My papa used to own a farm in Hickman County, and I grew up stopping for lunch there, so it’s fun to share it with my children now. They make the best biscuits with preserves, and it keeps everyone occupied until the fried chicken shows up! On the way home, the kids would fall asleep, and my wife and I would enjoy some quiet conversation.

4 p.m. — Nap time 

Now it’s my turn to just relax and doze off a bit.

8 p.m. — Table for two

My wife and I would go to dinner, probably at City House. We’ve enjoyed so many amazing meals there over the years, and at this point in life, with two young kids, we don’t get to go out together as much as we would like. So when we get to, we want to go somewhere we know will have amazing food, friendly smiles and lots of booze.

DAY TWO

9 a.m. — Ease into the day

Sleep in! What a treat to wake up whenever I want and then lay in bed and watch SportsCenter while I shake off the cobwebs.

10 a.m. — Brunch in the neighborhood

Brunch at Josephine with my family. The food there is wonderful. The staff is always so kind and accommodating, and they tolerate the kiddos.

11:30 a.m. — Preds game with friends

I played hockey when I was younger, and I’ve always loved going to the games. There is such enthusiasm in Bridgestone; it’s contagious. Combining that energy with a fast-paced sporting event is my happy place.

3 p.m. — Afternoon in the park

I’d go back home after the game, and from there, we would walk to Sevier Park and probably see a large number of our friends there. I love getting to see people and catch up while the kids play. And I would probably end up chasing my daughter all the way to Las Paletas for a popsicle!

5 p.m. — Family dinner

Early dinner with the family at Martin's on Belmont. You can’t go wrong with anything you order here; it’s all delicious, and it’s the one spot all four of us consistently agree on! Then back home to get ready for the week ahead.