M.L.Rose expands into Murfreesboro

Flashback: The original M.L.Rose opened on Eighth Avenue South in 2008. As the city's profile grew, so did the restaurant.

• A second location opened on Charlotte Avenue in 2012, followed by the Capitol View location in 2017 and a Mt. Juliet outpost in 2021.

Between the lines: While some Nashville institutions are powered by an influx of tourists and bachelorette parties, M.L.Rose has largely maintained its identity as a neighborhood hangout for locals.

What they're saying: "Our Mt. Juliet location has been open just more than a year, and the guest response has surpassed our expectations," founder Austin Ray said in a statement.

• "We are responding to the demand for local establishments in the greater Nashville area, and we think we’ll be right at home in Murfreesboro."

The big picture: Several Middle Tennessee brands are on the upswing.

• Hattie B's has gone from Music City to the Las Vegas strip.
• Other favorites like Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint, Edley's Bar-B-Que, Barista Parlor and Frothy Monkey are opening new locations at a rapid clip, too.

📬 Tell us: What is your favorite of our locally based chains? And what up-and-comers should consider new locations next?