Driving across this already great country was all about getting from California to New York City with daily highlights to keep the momentum going.

Our stop in Nashville, Tennessee included a culinary surprise.

I did some research and discovered City House, a very popular Italian spot, serving pizza and pasta made with Southern ingredients and flair in the Germantown neighborhood.

We loaded up the minivan and a little over one mile from our hotel was a charming neighborhood with a fabulous restaurant which was a former artist’s studio.

The restaurant contains two levels as well as a patio.

We sat on the main floor across from the kitchen.

The place was packed.

Craving fresh veggies we ordered the Mustard Greens Salad with Turnip, Radish, and Peanut Dressing which highlighted delicious, unique flavors ($9).

The table enjoyed a Grilled Octopus with Za’atar, Sweet Potatoe and Buttermilk Crema which was prepared perfectly and quite tasty ($17).

We also shared a Pizza with Apples, Red Onion, Ricotta, Buttermilk Cheddar, Rosemary, Sunflower Seeds.

Courtny and I shared an amazing steak with cabbage.

I must admit that the most tantalizing part of the meal was the sign on the restaurant door which stated, “Gun Free Facility.” With Trump winning, how long will that statute last?!

Chef Tandy Wilson City recently won the James Beard award for Best Chef Southeast.

Wilson has been nominated as a Beard Award semifinalist nine times.

I guess the 9th time is the charm.

Wilson previously worked for Nate Appleman in San Francisco and at Tra Vigne restaurant in St. Helena, California.

City House exuded southern hospitality, making us feel right at home.

If you visit Nashville, City House is a must.

City House 1222 4th Ave N, Nashville, Tennessee. Open for dinner Monday, Wednesday-Saturday 5-10pm and Sunday 5-9pm. Closed Tuesday.