Sally’s Stay Awhile Introduces Andy Little as Chef

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Sally’s Stay Awhile, the newest restaurant from Strategic Hospitality opening this spring in Nashville’s Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood, introduces Andy Little as the restaurant’s chef. Little, Strategic Hospitality’s Director of Culinary Operations and a veteran of the Nashville culinary community, is best known as the former chef and partner of Josephine, where he earned back-to-back James Beard Foundation nominations. He will work with Strategic Hospitality Partner and Bastion Chef / Co-Owner Josh Habiger on menu development and ongoing seasonal updates. The restaurant marks Strategic Hospitality’s second concept in Wedgewood-Houston, following Bastion, which opened in 2016.

Sally’s Stay Awhile will offer a welcoming, approachable setting for every part of the day. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant is built for consistency and ease with the goal of becoming an inviting and dependable part of daily life.

“The menu at Sally’s will reflect the comfortable, neighborhood spirit of Wedgewood-Houston,” said Little. “We want it to be the kind of place where you can stop in for breakfast on your way to work, meet a colleague for lunch, and then return later with your family for a relaxed dinner, all at affordable prices.”

The menu will feature thoughtful takes on American classics and will be supported with a full beverage program including specialty coffee, cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic offerings. Mornings begin with house-made pastries, fresh fruit, yogurt bowls, as well as an assortment of breakfast mainstays like omelettes, breakfast sandwiches, pancakes and more. Lunch features generous salads, soups, sandwiches, and midday plates suited for both quick visits and longer gatherings. In the evening, the lighting is dimmed and the kitchen turns to dinner classics such as slow-roasted prime rib, rotisserie chicken, and pasta, all complemented by seasonal vegetables and sides. Sally’s will also feature a robust to-go program, including many dishes from the menu alongside packaged options such as boxed lunches for business meetings, catering selections, and take-home family meals.

“Our hope is that Sally’s will feel like it’s always been a part of the neighborhood,” said Benjamin Goldberg, Founder and Co-Owner of Strategic Hospitality. “Andy has had such an impact on Nashville’s culinary community for such a long time, and we’re excited to give him a permanent kitchen where he can work his magic. The food will feel welcoming and approachable - exactly what Sally’s is meant to be.”

The restaurant’s name draws from local history, honoring Sally Rains Merritt, the daughter of Captain John Rains, who settled the original 640 acres of land in 1779. After his passing, Sally built the famous Merritt Mansion just down the street. The story is layered with a subtle nod to Nashville’s history when horse racing defined Middle Tennessee and one of the region’s most celebrated racehorses was named Wedgewood - the street where Sally’s Stay Awhile now takes shape.

Additional updates, including opening date and hours of operation, will be announced soon. Follow along for updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and menu previews @sallys_stay_awhile on Instagram and TikTok.

About Strategic Hospitality

Strategic Hospitality is a Nashville-based hospitality company owned by brothers Benjamin and Max Goldberg. Founded in 2006, the company has created a diverse portfolio of concepts that have shaped the city’s dining culture. Benjamin and Max, who were raised in Nashville, are deeply committed to supporting the local community and upholding the kindness for which the city is known. In August 2023, Chef Josh Habiger joined as a partner, bringing his expertise and further enriching the company’s vision.

Strategic Hospitality’s portfolio includes The Patterson House, The Catbird Seat, The Band Box and The Country Club at First Horizon Park, Bastion, Henrietta Red, Locust, Kisser, Babychan, and multiple venues at Nashville International Airport: Kitty Hawk Eat + Drink, Voodoo Doughnut, The Titans Press Box, and The Music City Shop. The company proudly operates Friends In Low Places Bar & Honky-Tonk, owned by Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, which opened in November 2023. In Spring 2026, Strategic Hospitality will debut Sally’s Stay Awhile, a neighborhood restaurant open morning, noon, and night. In 2027, Strategic Hospitality will re-open West Nashville mainstay, Dalts American Grill.

In November 2025, three Strategic Hospitality restaurants - Bastion, The Catbird Seat, and Locust - were each awarded one MICHELIN Star, the only restaurants in Tennessee to receive the accolade in the guide’s inaugural year recognizing the American South. Kisser was also honored with a Bib Gourmand. In January 2026, The Catbird Seat was honored as a semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurant by the James Beard Foundation.

The Goldberg brothers were named James Beard Foundation Outstanding Restaurateur nominees in 2015, 2016, 2018–2020, and again in 2025 - a testament to their innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to exceptional hospitality. In 2025, the nomination also recognized their partner, Chef Josh Habiger, further underscoring Strategic Hospitality’s leadership and excellence in the industry.

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