Au Cheval, the cult-favorite Chicago diner revered for its towering cheeseburgers, is quietly edging closer to Nashville. The buzzy brand has entered the permit phase for a 12 South outpost inside the new Ashwood 12 South complex, with plans that include both indoor seating and a compact outdoor patio. If it comes to fruition, the restaurant could become a national-level magnet in a neighborhood that already punches above its weight with big-name retail and dining.
According to What Now Nashville, a permit filed with Metro lists the restaurant at 2212 12th Ave. S. #124. The plans describe a single-story space with 4,435 square feet indoors and a 575-square-foot patio. The filing connects the project to Hogsalt Hospitality, the Chicago-based group that operates Au Cheval’s existing locations.
Au Cheval's Menu and Reputation
The Au Cheval website describes the concept as “a diner-style bar and restaurant with a passion for eggs,” where a signature cheeseburger shares the spotlight with egg-centric plates and comfort food staples. The brand is part of Brendan Sodikoff’s Hogsalt Hospitality, which runs multiple high-profile concepts. Au Cheval is also notorious for its long waits and intense lines, a recurring detail in local Chicago coverage that underscores the restaurant’s national pull.
Local Partner and Project Fit
Nashville Business Journal, as cited by What Now Nashville, reports that restaurateur Sam Fox is involved as a local partner. The planned restaurant would occupy space in Ashwood 12 South at 2212 12th Ave. S., a nearly two-acre mixed-use development in 12 South by Turnbridge Equities. Developer and project details are outlined by REBusinessOnline.
What to Expect Next
There is no clear opening timeline yet. What Now Nashville notes that the permit is the only public confirmation so far and that Hogsalt has been contacted for comment. Ashwood has already landed national brands such as Reformation, Birkenstock and Sushi-San, which suggests Au Cheval would join a growing roster of out-of-town concepts in 12 South, according to Nashville Lifestyles. This story will be updated once operators announce an opening date or release Nashville-specific menu details.
