This tiny slice of heaven masquerading as a cafe just claimed Nashville’s heart faster than you can say “banana pudding latte.” 🍌
Verna, perched on the legendary Rock Block, has locals practically camping outside their doors since opening, proving that sometimes the best things really do come in small packages.
How Verna Won Local’s Hearts
*Verna didn’t just open – it resurrected the soul of Nashville’s beloved Rock Block.
When the owners took over the space that once housed the iconic Cafe Coco, they knew they were stepping into hallowed ground – a place that locals still describe with tears in their eyes 😢
The cafe’s Japanese-Creole fusion concept became an instant hit during their July soft opening, with people literally lining up for their unique baby cakes and that now-famous banana pudding latte that tastes exactly like the dessert itself.
What really sealed the deal was their commitment to creating that same sense of community that made Cafe Coco legendary.
The spot quickly became a neighborhood gathering place where strangers feel like neighbors, and the approachable craft cocktails paired with comfort food made everyone feel welcome.
Their 72-hour fermented approach to dishes and house-made syrups showed locals this wasn’t just another trendy cafe – this was a place that cared about quality and authenticity 🎯
Food Highlights
- Baby Cakes (Miso Corn Cake): A magical hybrid between pancake and muffin made with gluten-free flour, topped with yuzu kosho butter that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance
- Banana Pudding Latte: The drink that made them famous – tastes exactly like the Southern dessert in liquid form ☕
- Matcha Ginger Baby Cake: Sweet meets earthy with strawberry sauce that balances the unique flavor profile perfectly
- Chili-Pork & Grits Bowl: Braised pork with soft-boiled egg, pickled vegetables, and cilantro that screams comfort food heaven
- S.E.C. Sandwich: Spicy andouille sausage, fried egg, American cheese, and chili mayo on toasted white bread – a local favorite
- “I’m The Problem” Matcha: Made with cornbread milk and strawberry – because why be normal when you can be memorable? 🥛
Atmosphere
The vibe at Verna perfectly captures that cozy neighborhood hangout feeling that made its predecessor so beloved.
The space maintains the intimate, welcoming energy of the historic Rock Block while adding modern touches that make it Instagram-worthy without being pretentious 📸
Locals describe it as feeling like you’re hanging out in a friend’s kitchen – if that friend happened to be an amazing chef who also made killer cocktails.
The connection to Connie’s dive bar in the back creates this perfect flow where you can start with a nice latte and seamlessly transition to evening drinks.
Bottom Line
Visit Verna for the legendary banana pudding latte, stay for the unique Japanese-Creole fusion that actually works, and return because it feels like home in the heart of Nashville’s most historic entertainment district 🏠
Address: 210 Louise Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
📞 (615) 949-6441
🕔 Open Wed-Sun, 8 AM–3 PM (coffee & brunch)