Cledis is cranking out some of the best burgers in Nashville, but they're about much more than just a quick bite. They also have a mission to feed the city's unhoused.
"Ultimately, our goal is to provide meals for the unhoused and the poverty-stricken community here in Nashville," founder Shane Nasby says. "We partner with People Loving Nashville, and you'll find us at least once a month doing about 500 burgers for those in need. And that's ultimately why we built this restaurant, that's why we exist, is for this mission."
Cledis is serious about their mission. "We almost started as a non-profit," Nasby says, "but just decided to be a burger and beer joint that does good things in the community."
Nasby named the restaurant in honor of his late grandpa, Cledis Nolen, who owned and operated the Midway Cafe in Charlottesville, Indiana.
What they offer
Cledis is all about the smash burger, but it's more than just a sear. Options inlude the Oklahoma Smash, a traditional Oklahoma grilled onion smash burger, the Shippy Thai Yay, covered in 'cowboy candy' (candied jalapenos) and Thai peanut butter sauce, and the Bleu Berry Smash, where bleu cheese crumbles and bourbon strawberry jam adorn a grilled onion burger.
"We have fun with them, but we also have to do the traditional right," Nasby says.
If you're not in the mood for a burger, you can also pick up a fried bologna sandwich or wings in maple bourbon glaze. And don't forget the fries, available in regular, or maybe doused in a hatch green chili queso.
And it's not just food. Cledis keeps 24 beers on tap, and they try to make sure at least 20 of those are from local Middle Tennessee Breweries. The selection rotates weekly, so you might find a different brew for you each time you visit.
Why it's on our list
By now, you probably know why smash burgers are becoming so popular, and Cledis nails the essentials: perfectly cripsy edges on a juicy patty. The sheer variety of smash burgers also helps set them apart. with plenty of spicy and savory options.
But then there's the special touch. Two words: Cledis sauce. It's the perfect topping to just about any burger. (And also great to dip in your truffle fries in...) And if, like us, you want to know what's in the Cledis sauce? Well, sorry. "I can't tell you what's in that, but it's really good," Nasby teases.
The atmosphere is exceptional as well. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available, and inside there's a lot of classic decor lining the walls. There's also a beer garden and stage outdoors.
It's not just us: Cledis also has a 4.6 rating on Yelp and Trip Advisor as of this publishing.
Where to find Cledis
Cledis is located at 1011 Elm Hill Pike in Nashville. They're open for lunch Monday - Thursday, and from 10:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. They're closed on Sunday.
For more info, or to order online, head to www.cledis.com
