To the typical Vandy student, Belmont kids are strange beings not likely to be spotted in seersucker jackets and flower printed sundresses on Saturdays in fall. They’re the “artsy” college kids to our preppy, frat-tastic reputation. But as different as our student bodies may seem, we’re all still college students, struggling through papers, exams and the inevitable Sunday hangover. As intimidating as it may seem to walk amongst foreigners, our campuses are extremely close and Belmont Boulevard has a lot to offer in terms of food and shopping. Versus writers Benjamin Ries and Clara Martin took their camera and culture savvy minds into Belmont land and found out what this street had to offer. So when you’re bored of West End chains or the boutiques of Hillsboro, travel another mile uphill and explore some new college turf. Who knows, maybe you’ll make some friends.
Fresh Blends Juice and Smoothie Bar
Have you ever craved a good smoothie? Has your dog? Located at 1703 Portland Avenue, Fresh Blends Juice and Smoothie Bar offers a wild assortment of smoothies and juice drinks with prices ranging from $3.79 to $6.29. ‘Strawberry Fields’ is the most popular smoothie, followed by the peanut butter filled ‘Ode to the King’. Other highlights include dog-treat ‘Puppy Love (Dog Smoothie),’ a menu of ‘Powershots,’ a ‘Hangover Blend’ enhancer and a ‘Cold Buster’ juice drink made from a combination of carrots, spinach, ginger and garlic. According to the employee we encountered, the ‘Cold Buster’ is hard to get down but provides the relief its name promises.
Bongo Java
Listed by Newsweek as one of ten great ‘Places for caffeine and conversation’ and the recipient of numerous other awards, Belmont’s Bongo Java is a Nashville highlight. Bongo Java serves breakfast, lunch and dinner all day with prices anywhere from three to seven dollars. Drinks include cider-filled ‘Apple Pie’ and double-mocha ‘Mocahontas,’ and ten syrups are available with flavors ranging from Coconut to Frosted Mint. The tables are delightfully decorated with drawings of coffee, Bruce Willis, bikinis and plenty else. Who knows — if you come in at the right time, you may just find Keith Urban sitting at one.
Reverb Media
Reverb Media, located at 2006 Belmont Blvd (a few stores down from Curb Cafe), is a CD store set to go out of business in about two weeks. As a result, no new inventory is being brought in, but what’s already there is 75% off — I purchased two albums for just over $8. Anybody looking for cheap music or interested in adopting a stray cat (the owner is trying to give one away) may want to stop by Reverb Media. Just don’t wait until it’s too late.
International Market and Restaurant
Thai Restaurant (since 1975)
From Bongo Java, cross Belmont Blvd and keep walking — you can’t miss this long brick building with simple, white letters that spell “International Market and Restaurant.” Walking inside, it is any Oriental food lover’s dream, with shelves stocked as high as the ceiling with oriental teas, soy sauces, and best of all, Japanese candies. Pocky sticks and bags upon bags of gummy candy line the shelves to the check out counter, and then there is the food. For all of you who like Thai or Chinese food, this is the place to go. Wonderfully cheap at several servings for $2.00, depending on how much food you want, the price range can go anywhere from about $6.00 to $10.00. There are tables to eat at, or take out options as well. Oriental purses, jewelry, shirts and teacups are also for sale and fill the store with a bright and friendly glow. Definitely a place to check out — I have a feeling I’m about to become a regular.
Feedback Clothing Co.
For all of you fashionistas, this boutique is found next door to Reverb Media and offers a more eclectic, indie style of clothing. Skinny jeans and graphic tees are on sale now, but the average price for a t-shirt is about $30.00. Throughout the store, the prices range from $20.00 shirts on sale to $70.00 iT jeans, along with an assortment of dresses and skirts. Their selection of TOMS shoes is small, carrying only neutral tones, red and black. What caught my eye, though, were the rings, sunglasses and hair accessories to add a fun bit of artsy flair to any outfit.
The Athlete’s House
I have passed this building on my runs around Belmont and from the outside it doesn’t look like much, but inside is a treasure trove for every level of runner. Owned by the same person since 1975, this running specialty store was the first in Tennessee. The employees are friendly and ready to help in any way they can, and are specially trained to fit shoes according to the type of feet a customer has. Right now they are having a 20% off sale on all Mizuno products, including both shoes and running clothes. In addition to a wide variety of running shoes, they sell cleats and soccer balls, along with an assortment of other sporting goods. The next time you find yourself getting thirsty in the middle of a run, the orange coolers outside are filled with cold water for your benefit. A trip to the Athlete’s House is a definite must for all you exercise fanatics.
