12South Burger Up
Burger Up — a 12South restaurant staple since 2010 — will permanently cease operations after Saturday, Aug. 1.
Jim Lewis, the restaurant's owner, announced the closing of the business, located at 2901 12th Ave. S., on social media. He did not give a reason for the closure.
"Many thanks go to all of our guests, friends, neighbors and our fantastic team members for the love and support we have experienced over the years," writes Lewis. "Serving our community has been a joy and a true pleasure."
Miranda Whitcomb Pontes and her late husband Mike Pontes co-founded the business in 2010. Mike Pontes died in 2013.
Replacement building slated to accommodate Ralph Lauren, Alo
In December 2014, Miranda Whitcomb Pontes sold her ownership in the business to Nashville-based restaurant group Community Hospitality. Via an LLC, Jim Lewis — who owns Community Hospitality — also owns the space from which Burger Up operates, according to Metro records. Community Hospitality also owned the 12South restaurant Josephine, which closed in December 2023.
Lewis could not be reached for comment regarding his plans for his 12South space.
Whitcomb Pontes and business partner Alex Wendkos acquired beloved East Nashville watering hole and burger joint Dino's at about the time of the sale of Burger Up. Whitcomb Pontes has since parted ways with Dino's as well.
12South Taproom, another beloved and locally owned restaurant in the neighborhood, ceased operations less than one month ago. The eventual additions Ralph Lauren and Alo will continue 12South's transition from a commercial district with local businesses to one with national chains, many of them upscale.
This article was first published by our sister publication, the Nashville Post.
