One of America’s most talked-about burger joints might be making its way to Nashville.

Au Cheval — the Chicago diner famous for its towering cheeseburgers and famously long wait times — appears to be planning a location in the 12 South neighborhood, according to recently filed permits.

If the plans move forward, the restaurant would land inside Ashwood 12 South, a mixed-use development taking shape along 12th Avenue South.

A Chicago Burger Institution

For anyone unfamiliar, Au Cheval has built something of a cult reputation in Chicago.

The restaurant describes itself as a “diner-style bar and restaurant with a passion for eggs,” but let’s be honest — the real star is the cheeseburger.

Stacked high with thick patties, melty cheese, and optional bacon or egg, the burger has repeatedly landed on national “best burger” lists. It’s also known for drawing serious lines out the door, sometimes with hour-plus waits just to get a seat.

The concept comes from Hogsalt Hospitality, the Chicago-based restaurant group founded by Brendan Sodikoff that operates several high-profile restaurants across the country.

What We Know About The Nashville Plans

Permit filings show the proposed restaurant would occupy about 4,435 square feet of indoor space with an additional 575-square-foot patio.

The address listed is 2212 12th Avenue South, within the new Ashwood development.

Reports also suggest that well-known restaurateur Sam Fox may be involved locally as a partner on the project.

Beyond that, details remain pretty limited for now. The permit filing is currently the main public clue that the restaurant is headed to town, and there’s no official opening timeline yet.

Why 12 South Makes Sense

If Au Cheval does land here, the location actually fits pretty well.

12 South has steadily become one of Nashville’s busiest restaurant corridors — a mix of destination dining, national brands, and local favorites that draws both tourists and locals.

The Ashwood development itself is already lining up big names in retail and dining, so adding a nationally famous burger spot to the mix would certainly keep the momentum going.

What Happens Next

For now, it’s still early in the process.

Permits don’t always guarantee a restaurant will open, but they’re usually a strong sign that something is moving forward behind the scenes.

And if Au Cheval’s burgers really do make their way to Nashville, expect one thing for sure: the lines might start forming pretty quickly.

For more information, visit auchevaldiner.com.