Anas Saba founded Nashville Hidden Gems during August 2019 as a food tour and a cultural experience business that introduces guests to the vibrant international community in South Nashville through cuisine, art and entertainment.
"We're proud to showcase local, immigrant-owned and family-owned businesses," says this Brentwood area native who attended Ravenwood High School.
With family roots in Yemen, Anas' father and two uncles purchased a Hispanic supermarket in Nashville, just before he says the local Latino population grew exponentially. He then became familiar with Nashville's "International Corridor" off of Nolensville Road. While attending Belmont University, he served as an Airbnb experience host to share this culturally rich part of Nashville with locals and visitors.
"People who move to Nashville seem particularly interested in its many diverse communities, but often don’t know how to access them,” says Anas. “It’s a true privilege to share these hidden gems with the broader community.”
Instagram.com/NashvilleHiddenGems
Airbnb.com/experiences/847190
NashvilleHiddenGems.com
Kapu Haole — Hawaiian / Asian street food served out of Bar Sovereign, 514 Rep. John Lewis Way South.
Anas likes that this food supplier provides some of Hawaii’s most popular dishes, one bowl at a time. He says it's the perfect match of a great atmosphere and cocktails. Try dishes such as yuca fries with kimchi overtop, rice noods, Korean-fried chicken, sushi rice and rotating desserts. They claim their food will hit all taste buds.
Soy Cubano — Cuban pop-up with a regular schedule.
Twists on true Latin cuisine keeps Anas returning for more. He says each dish is a must try, and taht they all pack flavor. For example, they combine the magic of Mojo pork with crispy Cuban bread, ham and melty Swiss cheese to get one satisfying sanguish (sandwich). Or try a Cuban Jerk dinner.
Two Peruvian Chefs In A Truck — Sometimes at Farmers Market.
With fish and crab dishes to Peruvian fried rice, tacos and pork belly sandwiches, there’s a lot to try. However, Anas recommends asking the chef about the specials of the day. He especially likes ceviche or their lomo saltado for meat lovers. Drinks include Inca Kola and Chicha.
Mama Yang and Daughter — Comfort foods for entire families.
This mother-daughter duo shares Taiwanese family dumpling recipes with the Nashville community. Anas says their dumplings are super special. They also serve salted crispy chicken, scallion pancakes, marinated cucumbers, and hot and sour soup. Don’t forget to try Mama Yang’s Specialty Sauce on their dumplings and other delicious recipes!
Slow Burn Hot Chicken — Barbecue fast food, even brunch.
They prepare hot spicy chicken at several heat levels. Anas says it’s nice that they offer both fried and grilled options; he suggests consider ordering ahead. They also serve hot fish, shrimp, smoked chicken, fried pork, waffles and Hot Butt Sandwiches.
Café Rakka — Live fresh, eat fresh, refreshing difference.
This family-oriented café serves Mediterranean food with olive oil and no MSG. Anas likes its emphasis on natural, healthy eating. Everything is made fresh in-house, including yogurt and cheeses, using family recipes perfected for generations in the upper Euphrates region. Even the hummus is made fresh daily.
Editor's Note: Due to rotating menus and variable supplies, dishes at restaurants featured here may fluctuate any given day.