McEwen Northside is adding to its vibrant lineup of elevated dining destinations with the upcoming arrivals of Culinary Dropout and Hawkers Asian Street Food. The two popular restaurants will anchor the ground floor of the district’s newest building — a $125 million, 300,000-square-foot expansion of the campus.
Culinary Dropout — set to open on Sept.10 — is a lively gastropub from Fox Restaurant Concepts known for its creative spin on classic comfort food. Think soft pretzels with provolone fondue, 36-hour pork ribs, and fried chicken drizzled with honey. Culinary Dropout is the fourth restaurant by Arizona-based restaurateur Sam Fox to find a home in Middle Tennessee, joining The Henry, Doughbird, Pushing Daisies and Flower Child, which recently opened in Cool Springs. The new Culinary Dropout will offer a dynamic and laid-back atmosphere, complemented by spacious outdoor seating designed to foster connection and community.
Hawkers Asian Street Food, inspired by the open-air markets of Asia, brings bold flavors and shareable small plates to the table with staples like Korean twice-fried wings, five-spice green beans, and roti canai served with rich curry dipping sauce. Hawkers opened its first Tennessee location in East Nashville in 2020 and quickly became a go-to spot for craft cocktails and sake alongside its pan-Asian menu. Hawkers is set to open in early 2026.
“We’re incredibly excited about the momentum surrounding the newest block in the district,” said Mark Traylor. “We’ve already welcomed office tenants to the upper floors, with more on the way; and soon, the ground level will be home to these beloved restaurants, further establishing McEwen Northside as a place where memories are made, especially over a great meal.”
Joining Culinary Dropout and Hawkers on the ground floor is newly opened Oak Hall, a popular upscale clothier.
Since 2024, McEwen Northside has expanded its mix of retailers, welcoming popular brands like Vuori, gorjana, Oak Hall, Warby Parker, Fink’s Jewelers/Rolex, Skin Laundry as well as Blue Sushi Sake Grill — each thoughtfully chosen to fit the community’s lifestyle and needs.
To stay in the know about grand opening dates and all the exciting things happening at McEwen Northside, follow along on Instagram or visit mcewennorthside.com.
Dining and Cooking