From Paris to Nashville: Meet Anna Watson Carl of The Yellow Table
Anna Watson Carl planned her first four-course dinner party at age 10, and never looked back. What started with Valentine's Day steaks for her parents turned into a life spent cooking across continents, from Burgundy chateaus to late-night bakery shifts in Nashville. Along the way, one thing remained constant: the yellow table, a family heirloom turned culinary anchor.
Today, Anna owns crêpe-centric The Yellow Table in Nashville and is the author of a cookbook by the same name. Meet the woman who's turning a well-worn table into a way of life.
Pin
What inspired you to open The Yellow Table?
I grew up in Nashville, eating around my family's big, yellow table … The yellow table was the center of our home, a place for conversation and connection, and delicious meals. It taught me what community looks like and inspired me to create a food blog, a cookbook, and a café — all called The Yellow Table.
Another big inspiration for the café is my time in France. We had several French exchange students growing up, and I became obsessed with France at a young age … I studied abroad in Paris in college and was amazed by the food — the markets teeming with fresh produce, the bakeries and cheese shops on nearly every street, and the way the French took time to savor mealtimes.
This was also when I fell in love with crêpes. I ate at a little family-owned crêperie in the Latin Quarter for lunch several times a week, and a tiny seed of an idea was planted in my head that one day I should open a crêperie in Nashville. Crazy to think that 24 years later, I actually did it!
After France, I spent the next 11 years in NYC, working as a private chef, recipe tester, and food and travel writer for a variety of magazines … I moved back to Nashville in 2018 with my husband, Brandon, and our two kids, Evie and Grayson, and began thinking a bit more about the possibility of opening a cafe.
Pin
Is there a family recipe or culinary memory you return to again and again?
It was during my first trip to France, at age 13, that my taste buds came alive. You know how, in The Wizard of Oz, it's black-and-white for the first part of the movie and then turns into brilliant Technicolor once Dorothy gets to Oz? That was how it was for me, culinarily speaking.
Suddenly, the simplest things — like fresh strawberries, a crusty piece of bread with salted butter, or a flaky croissant — had so much FLAVOR! I kept a diary of all of our meals. I tried snails, duck, and double crème de Brie for the first time. Little did I know I was a chef/food-writer-in-training.
You've worn many hats — personal chef, food writer, teacher … How does all of this experience show up at the Nashville café?
I love making food that is both delicious and beautiful. I've learned we eat with our eyes first, so I want everything to be visually appealing. I care deeply about ingredient quality, and like to highlight the seasons in my food. We have specials that change daily, reflecting what's in season and what I'm in the mood to make.
I also intentionally created (with the help of my dear friend Jenn Elliot Blake) a warm, cozy setting. I wanted people to walk in and instantly feel a sense of delight. Everything from the furniture to the artwork, the fresh flowers to the choices of plates and mugs, was chosen to spark joy.
Pin
What have been the most meaningful challenges and rewards of this venture?
For me, the greatest rewards have been the people. I LOVE welcoming in people from both the neighborhood, and all over the world. Not only do I enjoy sharing my story, but I love hearing theirs. We have the most amazing neighbors in the building and the neighborhood. People walk to the café pushing strollers and walking dogs, and it's just such a sweet community spot.
The biggest challenge for me has been running the business. I'm a creative and a connector, so creating the concept for the café and bringing it to life was the easy part. Now, trying to figure out how to grow the business and make it profitable … that's the challenge. I'm not a spreadsheet gal, but I feel like I'm earning an MBA on the job!
If you could invite three dream dinner guests, who would they be and what would you cook?
Ina Garten, Oprah, and Ruth Reichl. These women all inspire me SO much, as storytellers, writers, and entrepreneurs. (And in the case of Ina and Ruth, as chefs!) I'd love to meet any of them, much less have them over for dinner.
In a nod to Ina, I'd probably make something really simple and delicious. If it were summer, maybe an heirloom tomato, peach, burrata, and basil salad to start, with pickled shallots. For the main course, a homemade pesto spaghetti with roasted cherry tomatoes and lemony grilled shrimp. And for dessert, a brown butter financier cake with whipped cream and fresh peaches.
Pin
Outside of cooking, what brings you joy?
Yoga, hiking, time with my husband and kids, dinner with girlfriends, prayer, journaling, and helping others
What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Worry about the things that matter and let the rest go.
Pin
LIGHTNING ROUND
Favorite comfort dish? Really good pizza (in Nashville, that's Roberta's)
Favorite self-care product or treatment? A massage! I don't get them often, but wow — it's an amazing splurge.
Most memorable recent meal in Nashville? I ate at Noko recently with my brother. We didn't have a reservation and were lucky enough to get a table on the patio. We shared a bunch of small plates that were all amazing, but I especially loved the crispy rice with spicy tuna, the salmon carpaccio, and the Szechuan green beans.
Three things you can't live without: Good bread, good coffee, good wine
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
**********
For more inspiring stories, visit our FACES archives!
About the Author Jenna Bratcher
Jenna Bratcher is StyleBlueprint Nashville's Associate Editor and Lead Writer. The East Coast native moved to Nashville 17 years ago, by way of Los Angeles. She is a lover of dogs, strong coffee, traveling, and exploring the local restaurant scene bite by bite.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Style Blueprint
3 days ago
- Style Blueprint
From Paris to Nashville: Meet Anna Watson Carl of The Yellow Table
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit Anna Watson Carl planned her first four-course dinner party at age 10, and never looked back. What started with Valentine's Day steaks for her parents turned into a life spent cooking across continents, from Burgundy chateaus to late-night bakery shifts in Nashville. Along the way, one thing remained constant: the yellow table, a family heirloom turned culinary anchor. Today, Anna owns crêpe-centric The Yellow Table in Nashville and is the author of a cookbook by the same name. Meet the woman who's turning a well-worn table into a way of life. Pin What inspired you to open The Yellow Table? I grew up in Nashville, eating around my family's big, yellow table … The yellow table was the center of our home, a place for conversation and connection, and delicious meals. It taught me what community looks like and inspired me to create a food blog, a cookbook, and a café — all called The Yellow Table. Another big inspiration for the café is my time in France. We had several French exchange students growing up, and I became obsessed with France at a young age … I studied abroad in Paris in college and was amazed by the food — the markets teeming with fresh produce, the bakeries and cheese shops on nearly every street, and the way the French took time to savor mealtimes. This was also when I fell in love with crêpes. I ate at a little family-owned crêperie in the Latin Quarter for lunch several times a week, and a tiny seed of an idea was planted in my head that one day I should open a crêperie in Nashville. Crazy to think that 24 years later, I actually did it! After France, I spent the next 11 years in NYC, working as a private chef, recipe tester, and food and travel writer for a variety of magazines … I moved back to Nashville in 2018 with my husband, Brandon, and our two kids, Evie and Grayson, and began thinking a bit more about the possibility of opening a cafe. Pin Is there a family recipe or culinary memory you return to again and again? It was during my first trip to France, at age 13, that my taste buds came alive. You know how, in The Wizard of Oz, it's black-and-white for the first part of the movie and then turns into brilliant Technicolor once Dorothy gets to Oz? That was how it was for me, culinarily speaking. Suddenly, the simplest things — like fresh strawberries, a crusty piece of bread with salted butter, or a flaky croissant — had so much FLAVOR! I kept a diary of all of our meals. I tried snails, duck, and double crème de Brie for the first time. Little did I know I was a chef/food-writer-in-training. You've worn many hats — personal chef, food writer, teacher … How does all of this experience show up at the Nashville café? I love making food that is both delicious and beautiful. I've learned we eat with our eyes first, so I want everything to be visually appealing. I care deeply about ingredient quality, and like to highlight the seasons in my food. We have specials that change daily, reflecting what's in season and what I'm in the mood to make. I also intentionally created (with the help of my dear friend Jenn Elliot Blake) a warm, cozy setting. I wanted people to walk in and instantly feel a sense of delight. Everything from the furniture to the artwork, the fresh flowers to the choices of plates and mugs, was chosen to spark joy. Pin What have been the most meaningful challenges and rewards of this venture? For me, the greatest rewards have been the people. I LOVE welcoming in people from both the neighborhood, and all over the world. Not only do I enjoy sharing my story, but I love hearing theirs. We have the most amazing neighbors in the building and the neighborhood. People walk to the café pushing strollers and walking dogs, and it's just such a sweet community spot. The biggest challenge for me has been running the business. I'm a creative and a connector, so creating the concept for the café and bringing it to life was the easy part. Now, trying to figure out how to grow the business and make it profitable … that's the challenge. I'm not a spreadsheet gal, but I feel like I'm earning an MBA on the job! If you could invite three dream dinner guests, who would they be and what would you cook? Ina Garten, Oprah, and Ruth Reichl. These women all inspire me SO much, as storytellers, writers, and entrepreneurs. (And in the case of Ina and Ruth, as chefs!) I'd love to meet any of them, much less have them over for dinner. In a nod to Ina, I'd probably make something really simple and delicious. If it were summer, maybe an heirloom tomato, peach, burrata, and basil salad to start, with pickled shallots. For the main course, a homemade pesto spaghetti with roasted cherry tomatoes and lemony grilled shrimp. And for dessert, a brown butter financier cake with whipped cream and fresh peaches. Pin Outside of cooking, what brings you joy? Yoga, hiking, time with my husband and kids, dinner with girlfriends, prayer, journaling, and helping others What's the best piece of advice you've ever received? Worry about the things that matter and let the rest go. Pin LIGHTNING ROUND Favorite comfort dish? Really good pizza (in Nashville, that's Roberta's) Favorite self-care product or treatment? A massage! I don't get them often, but wow — it's an amazing splurge. Most memorable recent meal in Nashville? I ate at Noko recently with my brother. We didn't have a reservation and were lucky enough to get a table on the patio. We shared a bunch of small plates that were all amazing, but I especially loved the crispy rice with spicy tuna, the salmon carpaccio, and the Szechuan green beans. Three things you can't live without: Good bread, good coffee, good wine As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. ********** For more inspiring stories, visit our FACES archives! About the Author Jenna Bratcher Jenna Bratcher is StyleBlueprint Nashville's Associate Editor and Lead Writer. The East Coast native moved to Nashville 17 years ago, by way of Los Angeles. She is a lover of dogs, strong coffee, traveling, and exploring the local restaurant scene bite by bite.
Style Blueprint
3 days ago
- Style Blueprint
8 Amazing SEC College Towns for an Unforgettable Getaway
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit In the SEC, football isn't just a sport; it's a culture. But beyond the roar of the stadium and the seas of team colors, these spirited college towns offer so much more. From craft breweries and world-class dining to scenic trails, live music, and vibrant local character, game day weekends are the perfect excuse to explore. Athens, GA Home to the University of Georgia — the birthplace of public higher education in the U.S. — Athens offers an unforgettable blend of tradition, culture, and creativity. Just steps from downtown, visitors can stroll through UGA's Historic North Campus, where centuries-old architecture and leafy quads reflect the university's storied past. Pin Athens has long been known as a music lover's paradise, and its legendary live music scene is still going strong. From the iconic Georgia Theatre to the famed 40 Watt Club, generations of artists have taken the stage in this vibrant town. Today, the scene is more diverse than ever, drawing both up-and-comers and national acts. Pin Equally noteworthy is Athens' culinary star power. Chef Hugh Acheson, a two-time James Beard Award winner, helped put the town on the food map, and a new wave of talent is keeping the momentum going. Pete Amadhanirundr of Puma Yu's was a 2024 James Beard semifinalist, while Kenny Nguyen of Pretty Boy competed on Top Chef in 2025 — proof that Athens is a serious foodie destination. Pin For a stylish stay, visitors can choose from a growing list of upscale boutique hotels housed in beautifully restored historic buildings. New additions like Rivet House, The Athenian, and The Bell Hotel offer modern luxury with plenty of local character. Whether you're catching a show, enjoying standout Southern cuisine, or taking a walk through campus history, Athens delivers all the charm and energy of a classic SEC town, plus a creative edge that's uniquely its own. Auburn, AL In Auburn, football isn't just a Saturday event; it's a way of life. Game days pulse with energy as fans gather for time-honored traditions like rolling Toomer's Corner, witnessing the eagle flight, and lining the streets for the Tiger Walk. But Auburn's magic doesn't fade after the final whistle. Paired with its artsy, historic sister city of Opelika, this SEC town offers a winning combination of vibrant culture, outdoor adventure, and unforgettable flavors. Both downtown Auburn and Opelika brim with local character. You'll find indie boutiques, creative spaces, and two walkable downtowns full of community spirit. Just minutes away, escape into nature with paddle boarding, forest hikes, and waterfall-chasing. Pin Foodies will find themselves in a culinary hotspot. The Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center, home to the renowned Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management, showcases innovation through its rooftop garden, teaching hotel, and 1856 – Culinary Residence, a fine-dining residency restaurant. Local favorites like Acre and Bow & Arrow, helmed by James Beard-nominated Chef David Bancroft, elevate Southern fare with soulful flair. Pin Thirsty? Sip your way through Opelika's award-winning craft beverage scene. Visit John Emerald Distilling Company for Southern-inspired spirits or sample inventive brews at Red Clay Brewing and Resting Pulse. New Realm Brewing ties it all together at the Rane Center, blending top-tier beer with culinary research. Year-round events, from Burger Wars and the SummerNight Art Walk to the Opelika Songwriters Festival, keep the energy high. Self-guided trails add quirky fun, like the Mural Trail, Pimento Cheese Trail, and Burger Trail. Pin From elegant stays like The Hotel at Auburn University, Graduate Auburn, the Collegiate Hotel, and the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort at Grand National to charming boutique inns like Crenshaw Guest House and Heritage House, Auburn-Opelika offers accommodations for every style of traveler. Nature lovers can camp or glamp at nearby Chewacla State Park, just minutes from downtown but surrounded by scenic forest and waterfalls. Baton Rouge, LA In Baton Rouge, game day is more than a tradition — it's a full-sensory celebration fueled by food, family, and Tiger pride. Whether you're tailgating on campus or cheering from a local bar, the city serves up unmatched SEC energy with a distinctly Louisiana twist. Food is front and center, with classic Cajun tailgate staples like jambalaya, boudin, and gumbo setting the tone. Local favorites round out the menu — beignets from Coffee Call, shrimp po'boys from Parrain's, and crispy wings from Chicken Shack keep fans well-fed from pregame to postgame. Pin Game day in Baton Rouge is also a family-friendly affair. Many tailgates welcome all ages, complete with yard games, music, and plenty of local treats. Before kickoff, families can explore interactive exhibits at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum or take a scenic walk along the Mississippi River levee. Pin The city comes alive on Saturdays, with the celebrations spilling beyond Tiger Stadium. Local hotspots like Walk-On's, The Chimes, and Ivar's are packed with fans watching multiple games, enjoying cold local brews, and reveling in the highs and lows of SEC football. Looking for more laid-back hangouts? Mid City Beer Garden, BLDG 5, and Zippy's also offer festive atmospheres where fans of all teams can gather for a day-long watch party. From rooftop bars to backyard gatherings, Baton Rouge becomes one big stadium pulsing with excitement. Pin Whether you're traveling with the whole crew or just in town solo for the tailgate, Baton Rouge delivers a game day experience as fun and unforgettable as its cuisine. In this spirited SEC town, football is more than a sport — it's a citywide celebration. Bryan, TX Born of converging cultures and built on deep Texas roots, Bryan is a city shaped by its stories and the people who continue to write them. In Historic Downtown Bryan, a designated Texas Cultural District, restored buildings and local art meet buzzy boutiques, live music, and eclectic eateries, forming the ever-evolving heart of the Brazos Valley. Pin Just minutes away, Lake Walk offers a fresh mix of lakeside serenity and modern energy. It's home to The Stella Hotel, a luxe stay recently ranked among the top three in Texas by the Readers' Choice Awards. Nearby, you can spot exotic wildlife at Aggieland Safari, explore vibrant murals along the streets, or unwind with cocktails during a distillery tour at Hush & Whisper in the historic Varisco building. For a boutique-style stay in the historic downtown area, stay at the newly renovated LaSalle Hotel. Pin Bryan's 'Legends' — the people, places, and businesses that define its character — shine everywhere you look. From iconic destinations like the Queen Theatre and Brazos Valley African American Museum to culinary favorites like Polite Coffee Roasters or Taqueria Poblana on the Bryan Taco Trail, these are the names (and flavors) locals love to share. Pin Whether you're catching a live show, strolling First Friday, or munching on tapas at Elia Cafe, Bryan is full of legendary experiences. And on game days, the free shuttle from Downtown makes it easy to catch all the action at Texas A&M's Kyle Field. Fayetteville, AR In Fayetteville, Razorback pride runs deep, but game day is just the beginning. Whether you're catching kickoff at Reynolds Razorback Stadium or turning a weekend trip into a full-blown getaway, this spirited college town delivers fun, flavor, and scenic surprises around every corner. Start by checking in at one of Fayetteville's newest stays. The Stonebreaker Hotel sits on secluded Markham Hill, just half a mile from Razorback Stadium yet surrounded by serene forest. Nearby, the highly anticipated Moxy Hotel is opening soon at South Yard — a creative reimagining of a historic farmer's feed mill. Pin Craving outdoor adventure? Rent an e-mountain bike at Smokehouse Cycles and hit 30 miles of rugged singletrack at Kessler Mountain and Centennial Park, or hike to the newly opened Mount Sequoyah overlook for sweeping sunset views. For a more leisurely spin, explore over 50 miles of paved, protected trails that wind through town. Pin After the game, Dickson Street is the ultimate nightlife hub, home to live music at George's Majestic Lounge, beloved bars, food trucks, and local eats like Doe's Eat Place and Bordinos. Or explore Fayetteville's booming food scene, from classic staples like Herman's Ribhouse and The Catfish Hole to new favorites like Cheers at the OPO and City Park. Don't forget to hop on the Fayetteville Ale Trail for a craft beer crawl with passport perks! Pin Visit the Experience Fayetteville Visitors Center on the Downtown Square for more tips, or soak in local flavor with boutique shopping, vibrant street art, live theater at TheatreSquared, and Instagram-worthy spots like Old Main and Senior Walk on the University of Arkansas campus. Come for the football, stay for the culture, cuisine, and charm! Oxford, MS In Oxford, MS, game day energy blends seamlessly with creativity and Southern hospitality. Home to the University of Mississippi, this charming town is where intellectual curiosity, music, and sports traditions all thrive side by side. The heart of the action is in The Square — a lively, walkable district filled with indie bookstores, boutique shopping, rooftop bars, and a constant buzz of live music. For a stylish stay just steps away, book a room at The Oliver, a boutique hotel with thoughtfully designed rooms, elevated Southern fare at Kingswood, and craft cocktails in the cozy, tucked-away Nightbird Parlour. Nearby, Graduate Oxford blends modern comfort with retro charm, from morning coffee at Cabin 82 to sunset drinks at The Coop rooftop bar. Pin Oxford's soulful soundtrack runs deep, rooted in blues, rock, and Americana. Proud Larry's and The Lyric host intimate live shows year-round, while the annual Double Decker Arts Festival fills the streets each spring with art, music, and flavor. The town is also home to Fat Possum Records and the University's renowned Blues Archive, underscoring its place in Mississippi's rich musical history. Pin Of course, Oxford's literary impact is unmistakable. As the former home of William Faulkner, the town remains a beacon for readers and writers. (Faulkner's estate, Rowan Oak, is even open for tours.) Beloved local bookstores like Square Books and the weekly Thacker Mountain Radio Hour — featuring author readings and live music — carry that legacy forward. Pin From the roar of the crowd at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium to the quiet charm of a Southern sunset over The Square, Oxford offers a dynamic mix of sports, culture, and creativity that makes it one of the most distinctive towns in the SEC. Starkville, MS Home to Mississippi State University, Starkville offers one of the most spirited game day experiences in the SEC. When football season rolls around, the town transforms. Maroon and white wave from every corner, cowbells echo through the streets, and a deep sense of community ties it all together. Whether you're tailgating on campus or grabbing a bite with fellow fans, the Bulldog energy is contagious. Pin But there's more to Starkville than Saturday kickoffs. The town's culinary scene is a standout, blending Southern tradition with fresh, modern flair. Don't miss Restaurant Tyler, a farm-to-table favorite that showcases local ingredients in elevated Southern dishes. For casual eats, The Little Dooey serves up legendary barbecue in a laid-back setting, while BIN 612 offers inventive small plates and craft cocktails perfect for a night out. Pin Starkville's walkable downtown invites exploration, and Main Street is lined with locally owned boutiques, coffee shops, and galleries. Just a short stroll away, the Cotton District charms visitors with colorful architecture, pedestrian-friendly streets, and a lively blend of dining, shopping, and nightlife. Pin For those looking to explore the outdoors, nearby Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge offers a peaceful escape into nature. With scenic trails, birdwatching, and tranquil lakes, it's an easy day trip that showcases Mississippi's natural beauty. Whether you're in town for the Bulldogs or simply soaking up the local flavor, Starkville delivers a vibrant mix of college-town energy, creative cuisine, and small-town charm, making it a standout SEC destination. Tuscaloosa, AL In Tuscaloosa, hospitality runs deep, game day energy is electric, and the food scene is quickly gaining national buzz. From award-winning bites like Avenue Pub's famed bacon burger to upscale Southern cuisine at Urban Bar & Kitchen — named one of USA TODAY's Best Restaurants of 2024 — Tuscaloosa is becoming a true culinary destination. Pin Other local favorites like River, Evangeline's, and the original Dreamland BBQ add rich flavor to the mix, while the city's annual Restaurant Week now showcases nearly 80 local spots. Beyond the food, Tuscaloosa offers endless ways to enjoy the outdoors. Paddle along the Black Warrior River, hike peaceful trails, or explore Lake Lurleen State Park with its 20+ miles of trails and scenic campgrounds. Hidden gems like Hurricane Creek Park offer quiet spots for paddling and hiking, and the Van de Graaff Arboretum welcomes primitive campers looking for a rustic retreat. Pin Sports fans will feel right at home in Tuscaloosa, where the legendary Bryant-Denny Stadium anchors the University of Alabama's world-class athletic facilities. For athletes and fans of all ages, new investments in pickleball — including a 19-court complex at Bowers Park — are part of the city's expanding recreation scene. Coming in August 2025, River Park will add nine artificial turf fields for baseball and softball, plus family-friendly amenities. Pin Downtown Tuscaloosa is lively and walkable, filled with music, galleries, unique shops, and over 1,000 hotel rooms close to the action. Events like Tuscaloosa Oktoberfest (September 20, 2025) add even more energy with live music, food, a dachshund dash, and fun for all ages at Government Plaza. Whether you're here for the Tide, the trails, or the taste of something unforgettable, Tuscaloosa welcomes you like family. Safe travels! This article is sponsored by Auburn-Opelika Tourism, Visit Baton Rouge, Destination Bryan, Experience Fayetteville, Visit Oxford, Visit Starkville, and Visit Tuscaloosa. About the Author Kate Feinberg Kate Feinberg is StyleBlueprint's Associate Editor & Sponsored Content Specialist, based in Nashville. Kate is a plant-based foodie, avid runner, and fantasy reader.
Toronto Star
3 days ago
- Toronto Star
Fireworks, warplanes and axes: How France celebrates Bastille Day
PARIS (AP) — Swooping warplanes, axe-carrying warriors, a drone light show over the Eiffel Tower and fireworks in nearly every French town — it must be Bastille Day. France is celebrating its biggest holiday Monday with 7,000 people marching, on horseback or riding armored vehicles along the cobblestones of the Champs-Elysees, the most iconic avenue in Paris. And there are plans for partying and pageantry around the country.
