Discover the Best Restaurants in Nashville Tennessee

Nashville is the vibrant heart of Tennessee, a city where the rhythm of music flows as freely as the Tennessee River. It is revered as the “Music City” and a place where the legacy of country music legends mixes seamlessly with the energy of a rapidly growing urban landscape.

But Nashville isn’t just about music; it’s also a culinary hotspot. Its rich and diverse food scene reflects the city’s Southern roots. It does so while embracing innovation and modernity. Whether you are a local or a visitor, the food in Nashville is something you don’t want to miss. Let’s dive into some of the top restaurants in Nashville, Tennessee that make this city a true dining destination.

1. Restaurants in Nashville: Husk Nashville

Located in a historic mansion in Rutledge Hill, Husk Nashville is where Southern cuisine is celebrated in its most refined form. The chef set out to explore the ingredients and heritage of the South with Husk, and boy, does it show.

The menu changes daily based on what local farmers and producers are harvesting, so you’re always in for a surprise. Think dishes like wood-fired chicken with Alabama white sauce or catfish with Southern rice grits—each plate telling a story of Southern tradition with a contemporary twist.

The atmosphere at Husk is cozy yet sophisticated, with that perfect Nashville blend of old and new. If you are into food rooted in history but presented with modern flair, this place is a must-visit. The place is nice with excellent service. You will have a memorable time. However, the place is off the beaten path.

Address: 37 Rutledge St, Nashville, TN 37210, United States

Phone: +1 615-256-6565

2. Rolf and Daughters

Tucked away in the Germantown neighborhood, Rolf and Daughters has garnered a reputation for its inventive take on Italian-inspired cuisine. But don’t expect the same old pasta dishes here—this is where comfort food meets creativity.

The space itself is a beautiful mix of rustic and industrial, perfect for a laid-back evening with friends or a casual date night.

The menu is all about handmade pasta, local produce, and unique flavor combinations that will make your taste buds sing. The squid ink linguine with gulf shrimp, chili, and lemon is a fan favorite.

Again, the simplicity of their sourdough bread with cultured butter will make you rethink how something so basic can be so delightful. Rolf and Daughters is the place to be if you love good food in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.

Address: 700 Taylor St, Nashville, TN 37208, United States

Phone: +1 615-866-9897

3. The Catbird Seat

As one of the top restaurants in Nashville, dining at The Catbird Seat is less of a meal and more of an experience. It is a culinary theater where you are part of the show.

Situated in Midtown, this intimate, U-shaped restaurant offers a front-row seat to watch the chefs in action, crafting each dish with precision and flair. The ever-evolving tasting menu is a journey through flavors and textures. Everything is as artistic as they are delicious.

Each course is paired with a story from the chefs, adding layers of meaning to what is on your plate. The dishes are small, delicate, and packed with surprising combinations that will challenge your palate in the best way possible.

If you are someone who loves to be wowed by the unexpected and enjoys food as a form of art, The Catbird Seat is where you want to be.

Address: 1711 Division St, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

Phone: +1 615-810-8200

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4. Arnold’s Country Kitchen

No visit to Nashville is complete without a trip to Arnold’s Country Kitchen. It is a beloved institution that’s been serving up classic Southern meat-and-three plates since 1982.

This family-run spot is as no-frills as it gets, with a cafeteria-style setup that lets you choose your meat. Think fried chicken, roast beef, or catfish—and three sides from a rotating menu of Southern staples like mac and cheese, collard greens, and squash casserole.

The food is hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, just like your grandmother used to make (if she was from the South, that is). Arnold’s is the epitome of down-home cooking. But while it’s not fancy, it’s a true taste of Nashville’s culinary soul.

It is the kind of place where everyone is treated like family, and you leave with a full belly and a big smile. Don’t ignore it when looking for excellent restaurants in Nashville.

Address: 605 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

Phone: +1 615-256-4455

5. Henrietta Red

Another of the top restaurants in Nashville on my list is Henrietta Red. It is located in the up-and-coming Germantown district. The place celebrates seasonal ingredients with a heavy emphasis on seafood. This is a rarity in this landlocked city.

The restaurant is beautifully designed with a light, airy feel, featuring a raw bar that offers an impressive selection of oysters from both coasts. Also, the menu is proof of simplicity and freshness. Dishes like wood-grilled fish, roasted vegetables, and small plates are perfect for sharing.

The chef’s approach is to let the ingredients shine without overwhelming them with too many flavors. Thus, it creates a dining experience that feels both sophisticated and approachable. Henrietta Red is ideal for a leisurely dinner with friends or a special night out when you are in the mood for something elegant yet unpretentious.

Address: 1200 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208, United States

Phone: +1 615-490-8042

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6. City House

City House is where rustic Italian meets Southern hospitality. It is nestled in the bustling Germantown neighborhood if you want to dine in any of the restaurants in Nashville. As one of the award-winning restaurants in Nashville, this spot has a warm, inviting atmosphere. There is also an open kitchen that lets you watch the magic happen.

The menu is a delightful mix of Italian classics with a Southern twist. Belly ham pizza with mozzarella, oregano, and chilies, or the wood-fired chicken with field peas and turnips is one of the signature dishes.

Moreover, the ever-popular Sunday suppers are a local favorite, offering a chance to explore a special menu that changes weekly. City House is perfect for those who appreciate a laid-back vibe and a meal that feels both comforting and adventurous at the same time.

Address: 1222 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208, United States

Phone: +1 615-736-5838

7. Bastion

If you are in the mood for something a bit more off the beaten path, Bastion is the place to be. Located in the Wedgewood-Houston area, Bastion offers a unique dining experience with its small, cozy dining room and a 24-seat capacity.

The menu is a prix-fixe affair, featuring around five courses that change frequently. This keeps things exciting for newcomers and regulars. The food here is inventive, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and bold flavors.

Don’t be surprised if you find dishes like duck with fermented cherries or a perfectly seared scallop paired with unexpected sides. The intimate setting allows for personal interaction with the chefs, making it a memorable dining experience.

Bastion is ideal for foodies who love discovering new and exciting flavors in an intimate, casual setting.

Address: 434 Houston St STE 110, Nashville, TN 37203, United States

Phone: +1 615-490-8434

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8. Lockeland Table

Lockeland Table, located in the heart of East Nashville, is a neighborhood gem that combines community spirit with exceptional food. The restaurant is set in a historic building, adding a touch of charm to the dining experience.

The menu is a mix of Southern comfort food and modern American cuisine. Expect standout dishes like the pork shank with stone-ground grits and the wood-fired pizzas that locals rave about. There’s a real sense of community here, with a portion of the proceeds from the happy hour going to local schools.

Besides, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, making Lockeland Table the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends or a relaxed family dinner. It is the kind of place where you feel like a regular from the moment you walk in.

Address: 1520 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206, United States

Phone: +1 615-228-4864

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9. Etch

Etch, located in downtown Nashville, is a sleek and modern restaurant that’s all about bold flavors and creative dishes. The chef brings her unique global influences to the menu, resulting in dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Also, the roasted cauliflower is a must-try. It boasts a combination of flavors and textures that make it a standout, even among the more complex offerings. The menu changes seasonally. That is to keep things fresh and exciting. There is also an extensive wine list to complement your meal.

The open kitchen adds an element of theater to the dining experience, and the atmosphere is lively without being overwhelming. This fantastic spot is perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated dining experience with a touch of adventure.

Address: 303 Demonbreun St, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

Phone: +1 615-522-0685

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10. Folk

Folk is another gem in East Nashville. It is all about wood-fired pizza and fresh, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant has a relaxed, bohemian vibe, with an emphasis on community and shared dining experiences.

The pizzas are the star of the show, with creative toppings like lamb sausage, smoked peaches, and Calabrian chili, but the small plates and vegetable dishes are just as impressive. Chef Philip Krajeck, the same culinary mind behind Rolf and Daughters, brings a similar philosophy to Folk. He focuses on simplicity and high-quality ingredients.

Moreover, the space is bright and airy, with an open kitchen that adds to the welcoming feel of the restaurant. This is the kind of place where you can linger over a meal with friends. So, get ready to enjoy good food and good company in a laid-back setting.

Address: 823 Meridian St, Nashville, TN 37207, United States

Phone: +1 615-610-2595

11. Pinewood Social

Pinewood Social is more than just a restaurant; it’s an all-day hangout spot that blends food, fun, and a touch of retro charm. It is located in a spacious warehouse-like building just south of downtown.

Again, this place offers something for everyone—a delicious breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or an evening of cocktails and bowling. The menu is eclectic, ranging from classic avocado toast to the rich and savory short rib French dip sandwich. There’s even a pool and bocce ball court if you’re in the mood for some outdoor fun. Pinewood Social is perfect for a casual outing with friends or family, where you can eat, drink, and play all in one stylish spot.

Address: 33 Peabody St, Nashville, TN 37210, United States

Phone: +1 615-751-8111

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12. 5th & Taylor

Located in Germantown, 5th & Taylor is the epitome of Southern elegance with a modern twist. The restaurant is housed in a former warehouse. Its interior is rustic and refined, complete with a stunning sculpture of a horse at the entrance.

The menu is a tribute to classic American comfort food. You will be served dishes like the mouthwatering pork chop with sweet potatoes and the crispy fried chicken that will transport you back to Sunday dinners at grandma’s house.

The service is warm and attentive, making you feel right at home. 5th & Taylor is the perfect spot for a celebratory dinner or a romantic evening out, where you can enjoy hearty, well-crafted dishes in a beautiful setting.

Address: 1411 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208, United States

Phone: +1 615-242-4747

13. The Stillery

If you are in the mood for hearty American fare with a side of Nashville charm, The Stillery is your spot. Located in the trendy Gulch area, this lively eatery is known for its stone-fired pizzas, juicy burgers, and Southern-inspired cocktails.

The atmosphere is casual and fun. That makes it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring the city. Also, the menu is packed with comfort food classics, like the hot chicken mac and cheese and the bourbon-glazed pork chop. Everything is sure to satisfy your craving.

With its relaxed vibe and robust flavors, The Stillery is the kind of place where you can kick back and enjoy a good meal with friends, soaking in the energetic Nashville spirit.

Address: 113 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201, United States

Phone: +1 615-942-8080

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15. Sinema

Sinema is a feast for the senses, located in a beautifully restored 1940s movie theater in the Melrose area. The décor is glamorous and vintage, with plush velvet seating and dramatic chandeliers that transport you to another era.

The menu is just as impressive, featuring modern American cuisine with a creative twist. Highlights include the duck confit with wild rice and the house-made gnocchi with roasted mushrooms and truffle cream.

The cocktail menu is equally inventive, with cinematic-themed drinks that are as fun to order as they are to drink. Sinema is perfect for a special night out, whether it’s a date or a celebration, where you can enjoy upscale dining in a uniquely stylish setting.

Address: 2600 8th Ave S #102, Nashville, TN 37204, United States

Phone: +1 615-942-7746

Conclusion

Nashville’s dining scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. These restaurants in Nashville offer everything from upscale Southern cuisine to inventive global fare.