Burger Joint Prepares for Grand Opening in Former Hermitage Cafe Location

Nashville, Tennessee is bracing for another mouthwatering addition to its gastronomic scene as a new burger joint prepares to open its doors. Mr. J’s Original, set to make its debut on July 15, will provide a fresh dining experience in the heart of downtown’s Rutledge Hill neighborhood.

Classic American Flavors with a Personal Twist

Pitched on the former grounds of the famed Hermitage Cafe at 45 Hermitage Ave, Mr. J’s Original is all set to tantalize tastebuds with its focus on traditional American hamburgers, French fries, and ice cream. Moreover, it also plans to differentiate itself with unique offerings such as hand-carved pastrami sandwiches, and convenient take-away options for breakfast burritos and sandwiches.

Reviving a Community Staple

The affable owner, Jason Flores, has spoken of his vision for the updated 1,450-square-foot space, anticipating it to be a bustling destination offering lunch and dinner meals across approximately 40 seating spaces. This inviting setting will include a separate section exclusively for ice cream and beer lovers. Flores, who is set to employ around 15 staff members, said in his conversation with local press, that he aims to create a “great neighborhood spot for the city of Nashville, tourists, and locals – a place that’s ideal for a family outing, where the ambiance is lively, complemented by classic tunes in the backdrop.”

Servicing Hours and Parking Facilities

Mr. J’s Original has planned its operating hours from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday and extended hours of 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. for the weekends. To cater to the expected influx of visitors, the site has made provisions for 23 parking slots.

The Lighting of a Culinary Beacon

The property is co-owned by Cleveland-based GBX Group and Essex Development, headquartered both in Louisville and Nashville. Both organizations envision the development of this building, and the surrounding area, into the Rutledge Hill Historic and Culinary Arts District. This plan aligns with the organizations’ overarching project, which aims to rejuvenate the area with a three-tower development including hotel, residential, office, retail, and public spaces.

Keeping this grand vision in mind, Mr. J’s Original is expected to become a beacon for this cultural regeneration. The new establishment represents a promising start to a bright chapter in Rutledge Hill’s history with a welcome blend of tradition, innovation, and community spirit.

An Iconic Space Reimagined

The Hermitage Cafe, the site where Mr. J’s Original has planted seeds of its culinary dream, closed in late 2021. Its departure ended an era of delectable memories for the local community, making way for a new narrative to unfold. As Mr. J’s Original prepares for its highly anticipated opening, Nashville eagerly looks forward to a renewed gastronomic landmark that values its past, resonates with its present, and aspires for a flavorful future.