When Shane Nasby launched Cledis Burgers and Beer along Elm Hill in 2022, he designed the concept around the idea of generosity. Named in honor of his late grandfather Cledis Nolen, Cledis serves as a mission-driven business that not only aims to bring the community together over meals, but also works to combat homelessness and poverty in Nashville alongside partners like People Loving Nashville.
Now, Cledis is heading to the Gulch, with plans to open in the former Party Fowl location at 719 Eighth Ave. S., according to a recent announcement.
“We wanted to get a spot closer to downtown that will help us reach more people and will help us with our mission and give us more resources to do so,” Nasby told What Now Nashville.
This location will be the third for Cledis, joining the original Elm Hill location and a second spot in Bellevue. The Gulch location will feature the same fast-casual menu and atmosphere, including ’80s and ’90s throwback decor. However, it will offer a larger space, with a 3,000-square-foot dining area.
There will be a full bar featuring 25 beers on draft, including local craft beers. The food menu features signature burgers such as the Oklahoma Smash (a traditional Oklahoma grilled onion smash burger with American cheese, pickles and Cledis sauce), the Morning Deets (a smash burger with American cheese, bacon, fried hashbrowns, a fried egg, mayo and ketchup) and Ghost Rider (a double smash burger with cream cheese, grilled onions, bacon, grilled jalapeños and ghost pepper jam). Other menu items include sandwiches, wings, shareables and house sauces.
The new location will open this spring, likely after February. The exact timeline will depend on construction.
Moving forward, Nasby said they will continue to look for opportunities to support the community.
“We don’t have a plan. We’re not circling places on the map where we want to be, but when opportunities arise and the location speaks to us, then we will make a move,” Nasby said. “It might be five months before we open another one or it might be five years. We’re just rolling with whatever happens, but so far it’s been great.”
In the meantime, Nasby is looking forward to joining other thriving businesses in the area, including Maiz de la Vida, The Gumbo Bros. and St. Vito Focacceria.
“I’m looking forward to being in the Gulch with all of our friends,” Nasby said. “To get down there and add another local, Nashville-original option to the mix is an honor. I feel like the Gulch is up-and-coming. The food scene down there is fantastic and we’re just happy to be part of it.”
