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15 Best Restaurants in Nashville

Nashville’s identity has always been tied to music, but over the last decade, the city has quietly become one of the most exciting dining destinations in the American South. The same creative energy that fuels the recording studios on Music Row now flows through the kitchens of its chefs. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or have lived here for years, the food scene offers a depth that goes far beyond the famous hot chicken shacks.

The culinary landscape here is defined by a mix of old-school Southern meat-and-threes and boundary-pushing modern cuisine. You will find James Beard-nominated chefs working beside family-run taquerias that have served the same recipes for generations. This blend of tradition and innovation is what makes eating in Nashville feel so dynamic and unpredictable.

Because the city has grown so quickly, the dining map has expanded into distinct neighborhoods like East Nashville, Germantown, and 12 South. Each area has its own personality and flavor profile, meaning the “best” restaurant often depends on the experience you are seeking. A romantic anniversary dinner requires a very different setting than a loud brunch with friends before a show at the Ryman.

It is also important to note that Nashville dining is no longer just about the food on the plate. Many of the top spots have become cultural institutions, housed in historic buildings or led by chefs who prioritize sourcing from Tennessee farms. The atmosphere, the hospitality, and the story behind the restaurant matter just as much as the final course.

However, the rapid popularity of the city means that reservations are often essential, especially for dinner Thursday through Saturday. Walking into a top-tier spot without a booking can lead to a two-hour wait or a polite turn away. Planning ahead is the single best piece of advice for anyone hoping to eat well here.

Below is a curated list of the 15 best restaurants in Nashville, selected for their consistency, originality, and ability to capture the true spirit of the city. This list prioritizes flavor and authenticity over hype, ensuring you have a memorable meal no matter which one you choose.

The Finch

The Finch

Address111 10th Ave S #310, Nashville, TN 37203
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Phone(615) 208-2762
Mahnaz Smith★★★★☆
Visited Finch while exploring The Gulch neighborhood. I didn’t have a reservation, but I was able to get seated right away, which was nice. I really liked the decor , the space was very pretty and had a great atmosphere. ordered the blackened redfish. It felt very heavily seasoned , almost like the seasoning was the main flavor, and I couldn’t really taste the fish itself. The seasoning was delicious, but I would have liked to experience more of the actual dish and ingredients. The sauce was good, and the mashed potatoes underneath were a nice touch. Service was okay, although I would have appreciated being checked on a little more often. also asked for a cup of sparkling water but received and was charged for a large bottle, even though I was dining alone.
Samantha Horstmann★★★★★
Jerika was a great waitress and made my bachelorette dinner memorable. She gave me a free Champagne and free dessert which was extremely thoughtful! We appreciate the nice hospitality and her going the extra mile! The food was also amazing and everything came out quickly! We will definitely return in the future. Thank you for a great meal!
Dave Smith★★★★☆
In town for the weekend and this place looked good. It didn’t disappoint. Rock shrimp was good but I would ask for extra spicy peanuts. Peri peri chicken and Cajun chicken pasta were great. Didn’t finish the pasta so we took it home. While boxing it up we discovered they put utensils in the bag for use later. I love the little things like that.
Alice Batson★★★★★
Our waitress Destinei was phenomenal!! She recommended some really great dishes and drinks. She made our dinning experience even better!! Our food was amazing, full of flavor and generous portion sizes. The beverages were really tasty as well! My family and I had a wonderful time at The Finch and will definitely be back again!!
Umar Ahmed★★★★★
Large, spacious restaurant with a spacious and cultured interior. The staff were extremely kind and helpful in navigating an enticing menu. The appetizers all seemed delicious, but since there were only two of us we ended up getting the volcano rock shrimp, which was fantastic. The papardelle Bolognese was great, and the Reuben was excellent! For dessert, the pecan pie and ice cream combo was paired perfectly. Parking can be a little tough to find, but would certainly come back here.

Luogo

Luogo

Address211 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Phone(615) 988-8200
M B★★★☆☆
8/1/2026 We wanted to try Pelato but they didn't have any open reservations so we decided to try this place. The service was slow as hell. Took forever to order and to get our food. We ordered the lemon pesto campanello entree and the lobster fettucini entree which the server bragged about how much lobster was in it. The food was overall disappointing. The lobster fettucini didn't have enough lobster in it and the lemon pesto campanello entree seemed to be missing something. We also ordered the cesar salad which had too many hard pieces in it. It was boring to day the least. We ordered the banana pudding for dessert which was the best part of the meal. I won't be going back here, the service was slow as hell. The total bill was $190 + tip. That was two entrees, dessert, 3 alcoholic drinks, and sparkling water.
Anna Yorio★★★★★
We were excited to try Luogo after we had a great experience at Pelato, and it was amazing!! The fettuccine lobster was seriously so good- and the arancini was delicious. The dark chocolate gelato was a perfect end to our meal.
Dario Cretaro★★★★★
Luogo is an absolute gem! From the moment we walked in, everything was top-notch. The food was incredible—authentic Italian flavors, beautifully presented, and every bite was outstanding. The atmosphere was elegant yet welcoming, making for a perfect dining experience. What truly made our visit exceptional was our server, Simran. She was fantastic! She was warm, attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and made sure we had everything we needed without ever feeling rushed. Her friendly personality and outstanding service took an already great meal to the next level. If you're looking for amazing Italian food and exceptional hospitality in Nashville, I highly recommend Luogo. We'll definitely be back, and we hope to have Simran as our server again!
Jodyann Fitzpatrick★★★★★
Exceptional food and service. Chip was our server, he was wonderful. Having traveled to Italy and being from NY, where the Italian restaurants are also great, we have been searching middle Tennessee for a place like this. Luogo is now our favorite place to eat. Thank you Anthony Scotto for bringing great NY Italian food to Nashville. See you again very soon.
Michele Dannen★★★★★
Luogo is an exquisite, upscale Italian fine dining restaurant. They serve wonderfully high quality food and flavor. The most delicious and fluffiest focaccia bread in the world! Enjoyable atmosphere, excellent service and divine hospitality. If you would like to enjoy an amazing Italian meal, this is the place, Luogo!

The Hampton Social - Nashville

The Hampton Social - Nashville

Address201 1st Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Phone(615) 622-7772
Tanya Hart★★☆☆☆
First time here. We didn't have a great experience. Called to say we would be running about 15 mins late, (as Uber running behind) but were on our way. Hostess couldn't care less. Told me if we got there past 15 mins they would give our table away. Lucky for us we made it with 2 mins to spare. I would have canceled right there and then, but they would have charged us forty dollars for the cancellation, as you have to guarantee your reservation with a credit card. So I guess that gives them freedom to be as rude and mercenary as they want. Seated upstairs next to a large noisy table. Overall the upstairs is very loud. We started with the mussels and the tuna tartar. The sauce for the mussels was really delicious, even though the portion was pretty small for that type of dish and we had at least 4 mussels that weren't open. The tuna was also a very small portion which lacked seasoning.. My son had the seafood gnocci and really liked it. My husband had the sea bass and it was just ok. Underseasoned and cold. I had the salmon, which was well cooked, but the carrots were raw. They did replace them to make it right. The steak fries were fine, also a on the cold side and steak underseasoned. They are not generous portions, especialy if compared to somewhere like The Finch. Just ok and expensive ok. The clincher for the review though, was how they rushed us through dinner. We hadn't finished our appetizers when the entrees arrived and they didnt care that we were stil eating apps, the expeditors set them down anyway. The entrees were barely cleared, still had drinks and he tried to set our check down. From the time we sat till he set the check it was 45 mins. We had to send him away with it! Overal rude, entitled restaurant, which was over priced for mediocre sized portions, and treated us like cattle. Spend your money someplace that values your business.
C M★★★★★
Absolutely delicious! We were visiting for CMA Fest and popped in on Sunday for lunch. It's a beautiful atmosphere and our service was good. Our server was able to answer our questions and was patient as we took our time to decide what to order. Everything on the menu looked fantastic. We had calamari, crab and shrimp bruschetta, Manhattan style lobster roll, white truffle mac, and the truffle lobster melt and bisque. The mango lemonade and strawberry lemonade were both sweet and refreshing. Highly recommend!
Laura Solomons★★★☆☆
To start with, the hostess entered our phone number wrong in the wait system. We missed our table because of that. The restaurant is SO LOUD! I couldn’t hear my waiter for the noise. The waiter even apologized for the noise. It was so loud that we checked the decibels on a phone app. I wanted to leave, but the rest of my party didn’t want to leave. I had to take Advil before my meal was even served. There is an automatic 20% gratuity added to the meal even if you’re a party of 4. I don’t mind tipping 20% but an automatic gratuity is off-putting and unnecessary. We ordered water and they place a large carafe of luke warm water on the table. We didn’t have ice and drank out of mason jam jars. I refilled our own drinks. The waiter took our order, checked on us once, and then we didn’t see her again until it was past the time to get the check. There is a QR code to pay on the table with an automatic $5 service fee assessed if you use it. Then you cannot remove the additional tip option if you use the electronic payment method to much is why the wait staff probably want you to feel like you need to just pay that way. We waited for our server to stop back by to pay. The prices on the menu are very light so you don’t pay attention to the $25 salad. Food was fantastic, but there were $60 worth of fees automatically applied to our meal for 4. Not kid friendly. Paid parking is validated BUT it’s only 1/2 off. It’s ridiculous. Really wish we had skipped this highly rated restaurant. This place is popular due to social media and the rooftop bar.
Maggy Bertin Comeau★★★★★
We had such an amazing time! The vibe was incredible and the music choices were absolutely on point. The drinks and food were delicious, and we especially loved how the shots were served in a guitar — such a fun touch! There were a few guys in our group and they honestly had just as much fun as we did. I would 100% recommend this place without a doubt!
Dee M★★★★★
The restaurant was gorgeous. My friend said it was the best Caesar Salad she’s ever had. I had the Chicken Pasta and it was outstanding! The service was not great. The waiter was nice but if you request anything extra, plan to ask a manager and plan to ask twice. That part I was not a fan of. Probably a good idea to request Parmesan right away. Not saying you’ll get it but my food was already cold by the time it arrived. Also, check your bill. They have an auto grat of 18%. I understand for large tables but it was just two of us. I am a great tipper but that was a weird thing to see. It’s hard to tip on top of that.

Noko

Noko

Address701 Porter Rd, Nashville, TN 37206
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: Closed
Tuesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Phone(615) 712-6894
Marcus T★★★★★
Let me start from the beginning, from the moment you step inside of this restaraunt you are greeted with the most polite and friendly staff you will meet. Every waiter and waitress is extremely knowledgeable on their menu. A lot of places you can tell their staff isn't happy... this is not the place, they all seem genuinely happy to be there! NOW let's get started with the food. I personally hate shrimp (yes seriously). I tried Noko's shrimp and the flavor burst was the most pleasant surprise ive had all year! Seriously you have to try the shrimp!!! The tomahawk steak was cooked to perfection. Ive been to japanese restaraunts all over Chicago and Nashville. This is officially one of my favorite restaraunts. I will 100% be coming back.
Katherine C.★★★★★
I’ve been here a couple times with a good friend and had really great experiences both times. We tried 5-6 different items both times and everything has been DELICIOUS! My absolute favorites have been the hamachi crudo, Szechuan green beans, and edamame. The old fashioned was super stout and flavorful. The ambiance is lovely yet chill. Both times the service has been top-notch and they treated us to a dish on the house just to try. Overall amazing experience and I’d 100% recommend.
Lindsey Radzevich★★★★★
Cannot say enough about this restaurant and experience. Easily my favorite restaurant in Nashville and first recommendation when people ask where to go. Crispy rice is my favorite in Nashville, tomahawk is absolutely unreal, and all the crudos are 10/10. Food is always excellent, flavorful, and service and staff are always the best. The manager Kaden and our server Ava were so kind and attentive with recommendations and making sure everything was served well. One of those restaurants you leave in the best mood because of the food and staff. Can’t say that about a lot of places!
Chelsea Fu★★★★★
First thing that needs to be said, is if I could give this place 10 stars out of 5 for service, I would do that. We went for a birthday brunch and the birthday girl was having a craving for their dumplings, so without any expectations, asked if the dumplings were available though not on their brunch menu. They did a quick check and mentioned that as they were only for dinner that day, they were not quite prepped. The next thing we knew...birthday dumplings arrived!! (See picture!) They were delicious. Everyone was aware of her birthday and took the time to stop by and wish her happy birthday and were extremely attentive and kind. Truly phenomenal service and very welcoming. (Other thing observed, we were out on the patio, which was air-conditioned, but on a very hot summer day, still got a little toasty and a group asked if they could shift inside- they seamlessly got the table shifted inside with numerous staff members assisting with plates and drinks. The efficiency was very impressive.) The food was very delicious- an excellent fusion with predominantly Japanese flavors with a good variety for even the pickiest of eaters. The presentation was amazing. We probably ordered too much food but still had more dishes we wanted to try. They gifted us a Pineapple Whip for a nice finishing birthday treat. I would definitely come back to try more dishes. Noise levels were quiet out on the patio with some background music, a little louder inside but able to have a conversation. Bathroom available and spacious and clean. Thank you for making our birthday brunch experience so memorable. ❤️
Jamison Fox★★★★★
Noko exceeded our expectations! One of the best meals I’ve had in Nashville but also stands out as a memorable meal on its own. I have high standards from growing up in Northern NJ and Noko checks every box. We had the hurricane fries, wagyu brisket, and market catch halibut. The entire experienced felt personal and curated; it felt like we were on Hulu’s “The Bear”. Mitch was an excellent and attentive server. He's awesome! Food was 10/10 - service and atmosphere as well!

Milk & Honey Gulch

Milk & Honey Gulch

Address214 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Phone(615) 712-7466
Bobbie Juaneza★★★★★
Absolutely amazing! Everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and you could tell the care that was made making it. The food was delicious, the drinks were excellent, and the service was friendly, attentive, and made the whole experience even better. My only recommendation would be getting there early as our wait was long, but still SO worth it. Plus there is a lot to see walking in the area while we waited Easily a 10/10 experience, and I’ll definitely be back. Highly recommend checking this place out if you’re looking for a great brunch!
Stephanie Sandoval★★★★★
This place was absolutely wonderful. From the moment we walked in to the moment we left, everyone treated us with genuine kindness. Every staff member greeted us with a smile, made us laugh, and created such a welcoming atmosphere. You could tell they truly cared about their guests and wanted everyone to have a great experience. We were visiting from Chicago, and the hospitality made us feel right at home. The recommendations were incredibly helpful and spot-on. The biscuits were warm, soft, and perfectly sweet. The chicken was juicy and flavorful, and the honey hot sauce was the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. We were originally told the wait would be about 30 minutes, but we were seated in only 15, which was a pleasant surprise. The service was efficient without ever making us feel rushed. Overall, the food, service, and atmosphere were outstanding. We will definitely be back the next time we’re in town!
Gianni Menassa★★★★★
Our brunch at Milk & Honey in the Gulch was absolutely incredible! You can immediately taste the difference that comes from a kitchen where everything is made from scratch. ​The homemade quality shines through in every single bite, from their fresh baked biscuits to the poptarts! It’s so refreshing to find a spot that puts that level of care and authenticity into their menu. Highly recommend!
Janine★★★★★
Okay so definitely come early or be prepared to wait on the waitlist. Limited hours calls for limited seating but at least you have a few options, indoor, outdoor and I think bar? Anyways the staff is really helpful. As soon as you're seated you're greeted and given the 411 on the place being a scratch kitchen, everything made in house and this is important because it contributes to the amazing quality control. But I digress. They also have merchandise and a pastry kitchen for you to grab and go coffee if you don't have time to enjoy the delicious food at a table. Now you cannot really go wrong here. We started off with the ricotta and honey on sourdough...amazing. And that honey? I wanted to take one home so bad but I did not want to check in my bag for it so I'll have to come by again. I could eat this pairing for days. So good. We stuck to the basics, biscuits with our cravings (chicken on mine, and bacon + egg + cheese on my friends) and a curry. Left leaving stuffed. Those biscuits...you must. 10/10 recommend and will be back!
Haley Rhine★★★★★
This is a large restaurant with plenty of seating, but it's overwhelmingly popular and known for long wait times. If you are coming by yourself or just with two people, bar seating is a good option. Wait times can be 30-60 minutes. That said, the food and service are worth the wait. Everything is scratch made and you can taste it in the food. Interesting pairings and well crafted drinks (both alcoholic and nonalcoholic) for a great price. The food is fresh, vibrant and full of flavor. You gotta try the hot honey sauce, and you can buy a bottle to take home too!

Prime + Proper

Prime + Proper

Address1000 Broadway Ste 101, Nashville, TN 37203
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 4:30 – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Phone(615) 909-9000
Brandon Sanders★★★★★
The food was amazing. The filet was an incredible cut of beef, so tender and among the best I've had across all the steakhouse in Nashville. The service was phenomenal - Alex, Alissa, and Max were personal and great to converse with. The wine selection was amazing, and we found a personal favorite winery from Greece in their selection. This may have just become our new favorite local spot
Kristen Manning★★★★★
Chris and patty were top notch! Food was incredible. Many gluten free options. Only miss for us was not legit gluten free dessert! Especially after having endless dinner options we were supposed they’d miss having a gf dessert other than ice cream and sorbet. For price point should have some gf options! But other than that it was really yummy. We had Wagyu, filet and prawns! Octopus and short rib marrow were incredible but almost a meal in themselves. Great mocktails as well!
Audrey Jones★★★★★
The best restaurant in Nashville! I had the best meal I’ve ever had here! The steak was unbelievable, they only serve the best cuts of meat here. The peanut butter desert genuinely changed my life. The service was top tier and the atmosphere is so elevated! They really know how to run a restaurant and chef it up. I will definitely be returning!
Louie Escamilla★★★★★
My wife and I had an amazing experience at Prime & Proper thanks to Jim and Alex. From the moment we walked in, they made us feel welcomed and took hospitality to another level. Their attention to detail, professionalism, and friendly personalities made our dinner experience unforgettable. They went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect, and their recommendations and service truly stood out. If you’re dining at Prime & Proper, ask for Jim and Alex, they are hands down some of the best hosts we’ve ever had. Thank you both for making our night so special. We’ll definitely be back!
Louis LaBoy★★★★★
I highly recommend dining at Prime and Proper. The atmosphere was fantastic, the service was top-notch, and the food was outstanding. For an appetizer, we had the chicken fried lobster, which was incredible. I ordered the cowboy ribeye, cooked perfectly, while my son had the lamb chops and my wife had the filet everything was excellent across the board. The mac and cheese was also a great addition. We will definitely be back!

The Stillery

The Stillery

Address113 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Phone(615) 942-8080
Annalisa Hamlett★★★★★
The Chicken Tenders were such a great ratio of breading to chicken. The drinks were delicious especially the Cold Brew Martini. Tati the bartender was great 😊
ana★★★★★
Really good place to visit if you’re a tourist and you wanna try. The mac and cheese was amazing, as well as the chicken. Fish was great as well. They have crinkle cut fries that were really good. The cheese pizza was one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had, it was so good. This place has live music so it’s pretty loud, but you can still hear people around you. Service was great too!
Anthony Hyslop★★★★★
After an afternoon of exploring the bustling city we decided to stop at this particular place for some of Nashville hot chicken, and it didn't disappoint, I could barely finish my Mac and cheese with the hot chicken on top, super good, but beware you might make several trips to the bathroom to wipe your tears and nose. My wife's chicken sandwich was spicy as well but delicious, she didn't have as hard a time as I did. Great drinks, atmosphere and location. Top Notch.
Marisa Graczyk★★★★★
We came here for a dinner on my cousin’s bachelorette weekend and couldn’t be happier about the service & food! We had 10 people, we made a reservation, we came early and they seated us right away. All the food was delicious & so were the drinks. The staff was amazing and the live music was a nice Nashville touch!
mhclark1983★★★★★
Managed to sneak in here a half hour before closing and still got an A+ meal’ got a simple Plain Jane Pie and was highly impressed with the simplicity and highly quality taste. The red sauce was very simple tomato base and you could taste it with nice brick oven burning on the crust and the crunchy bottom side with good melted quality on top. Would love to eat that pie again and would recommend coming in and making the visit. The staff was also very polite and enjoyable as well.

Monell's

Monell's

Address1235 6th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Phone(615) 248-4747
Virgie★★★★★
This establishment offers an exceptional brunch experience. We thoroughly enjoyed engaging in lively conversations with our companions at the table. The restaurant facilitated the introduction of numerous individuals within a brief timeframe. Our waitstaff demonstrated exceptional friendliness and attentiveness. We highly recommend this restaurant, as it has undoubtedly become a top contender in our list of Nashville’s finest dining establishments. We extend our sincere gratitude to the entire staff for their exceptional hospitality. We eagerly anticipate returning to this delightful establishment.
Crystal Anderson★★★★★
The best biscuits Ive ever had! Wish I would have taken more pictures but I was soaking in the experience of sitting with 10 other strangers that became "cousins". The food was plentiful in a buffet style and all the flavors were spot on! The parking was a little pricey but after seeing the price of the meal I can't complain. Delicious food and great atmosphere that we'll be back for!
Joe Daniels★★★★★
The sign says it all,,, Enter as Strangers, and Leave as friends. It’s a unique family style restaurant where if your company doesn’t fill up your own table, you’re sat with other people. The food is passed around the table family style and they make sure you leave full and satisfied. Very delicious chicken, sides and more. We had a great time conversing with a couple from Texas, and locals celebrating a Birthday. Best Sweet Tea is town too!
Monique Brown★★★★★
Traveled in to visit with family and the family style seating and serving style is unique and a cultural vibe. I met new people over dinner as well as enjoyed time with family. The food was excellent, fresh, hot, tender and the banana pudding (made of custard like it should be) won me over. It’s ALL you can eat but with all the options one round is far enough. Definitely recommend and will be back for this country and historical gem.
Richieare Williams★★★★★
TOP NOTCH! Once there, we were asked asked, if we had been before & how the seating worked. After being seated, we received a sampling of food,as our drinks were already on the table. Once our table was almost full, the breakfast food begin coming. The gravy is to die for, lol! Everything was fresh, warm & delicious. They say to "PACE YOURSELF" so true. You dont wan't to miss a bite! I also didn't mention & should have, the restaurant! A very old house with quite the feel & decor. This is a Grand Slam if you have the time!

Adele's

Adele's

Address1210 McGavock St, Nashville, TN 37203
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
Phone(615) 988-9700
Tammy Owins★★★★★
Tourist last minute reservation (not really needed) for early dinner. Sat at the bar had the sitshito peppers with bonito flakes-a must have!, crushed cuke salad that were not really crushed and needed more flavor and a good redfish main dish. Great service! Cool vibe, multiple seating areas inside and patio outside. Enjoyable. If you know Bourbon, I spotted 2 BLANTON bottles with race position stoppers 😉 and the bartender gave them to me!
Carly Stinson★★★★★
First time at Adele’s as locals and wow! It’s a beautiful resturant the atmosphere was so great. The cocktails and food were amazing! We had Mallory as our waitress and she was phenomenal! She had the best recommendations and beyond friendly and provided great service! Definitely would come again!! I am also a wheelchair user and I can see with certainty. It is a very accessible friendly restaurant!
Tom Mull★★★★★
By far the best brunch buffet I have ever been to, and I’ve been to buffets at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Cheyenne Mountain country club and More. The amount of food in the quality of the food for the price is absolutely worth the trip. Definitely make a reservation well in advance. The service was amazing, they have an amazing bourbon, rye and tequila display on the bar.
Angie★★★★★
I just love this place. Easy lot parking that’s validated inside. Make reservations though because it’s frequently very busy. We started with the blistered peppers and the kale salad and then tried the braised beef and lobster risotto and finished with the chocolate dessert. 10 out of 10 experience thank you so much.
PDougz★★★★★
Incredibly delicious, amazing/personable staff and a beautiful ambiance & space to dine or host an event. I’ve never experienced a more succulent confit duck dish and sides are stars in their category. Looking forward to coming back and enjoying more Adele’s! 🧑‍🍳😋

Puckett's Restaurant

Puckett's Restaurant

Address500 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Phone(615) 770-2772
K Kraft★★★★★
Mariah was a great server. Very friendly and attentive. Happy hour specials of Fried pickles and sliders were delicious. Brisket dinner was perfect. Cinnamon Bun Dessert was delicious and easy to share. The Banana Pudding is tasty but hard to share since it's in a mason jar.
Alison Pouw★★★★☆
this is a southern classic if i’ve ever seen one. fried chicken, barbecue, live music and limited veggies. we got the bbq chicken with 3 sides of broccoli, friend okra and mashed sweet potatoes as well as the chicken fried chicken (yes that’s not a typo). we enjoyed some live music with the meal and the dessert of homemade cobbler, icecream and deep fried brownie really topped the experience. the brownie with the ice cream was the best. wasn’t my fav spot as it was pretty heavy but good classic southern.
Erik Gutierrez★★★★★
The atmosphere was lively, the staff was friendly, and the food was so tender and flavorful. Don't be fooled by the attached picture: I took it at 0.6x zoom and the barbecue plate I got was a much wider oval, and not round like it looks. The fried brownie I got for dessert almost knocked me out and it would have been worth it. I'm glad it was recommended to me. Also, I'm not sure who was performing the live music on July 7, 2026 but I thought she was great!
Neil McPherson★★★★★
Noah served us all night and kept us well entertained. It came recommended to us by the hotel receptionist and it didn’t disappoint. Nice live country music, great food, good beer and friendly all round from the staff and customers. It made us feel very welcome on our first night in Nashville.
Mary Beth Jackson★★★★★
First time in Charlestown Tn, The food was great. I had southern fried chicken! Even the green beans were yummy. And the berry tea , I had 3 and one to go!!! Our waitress Lindsay was like finding an old friend. She was the cherry on top ! Definitely would go back!!!

Skull's Rainbow Room

Skull's Rainbow Room

Address222 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN 37219
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Thursday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Friday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Phone(615) 810-9631
Anthony D★★★★★
My wife and I celebrated our birthdays at Skull's Rainbow Room, and it was an outstanding experience from start to finish. Our server, Claire, was absolutely wonderful. She made us feel special all evening and even surprised us with complimentary champagne for our birthdays. Her service was friendly, attentive, and truly helped make the night memorable. For dinner, my wife had the pork chop, which was huge, perfectly cooked, and absolutely delicious. I ordered the rack of lamb, and it was cooked perfectly with a generous portion as well. Both meals exceeded our expectations. To top it all off, Claire surprised us again with two slices of cake for our birthdays, which was such a thoughtful touch. The live music was fantastic and created a great atmosphere. Even with the restaurant being busy and people talking loudly around us, the music could still be heard clearly without being overwhelming. Great food, excellent service, wonderful music, and special touches that made our celebration unforgettable. We will definitely be back!
Marco Passalacqua★★★★☆
The location here is absolutely gorgeous, and you can truly smell the history the moment you walk through the door. Our service was impeccable, the live jazz session was wonderful, and the food was pretty decent overall. For my meal, I ordered the prime rib. It was tasty, cooked well, and a very abundant portion, though the meat itself was a little bit dry for my taste. I suspect it may have been due to a lack of internal marbling in that specific cut (maybe not a prime grade cut?), or perhaps it was just over-held in the warming oven before service. I easily fixed it by using the accompanying sauce, but the cut was just missing enough fat fibers to keep it perfectly juicy on its own. That said, the overall experience was incredibly pleasant. As a tip for future diners, the tables right by the music stage are much more romantic and intimate, but unfortunately, you cannot specifically reserve them through OpenTable. I highly recommend calling the restaurant directly if you want a more immersive experience up close with the jazz band!
Neil Fox★★★★★
Let me start by saying there are several excellent reasons to come to Skulls Rainbow Room. Some come for rhe wonderful live jazz, some for the outstanding food and others for rhe artisan cocktails. But the best reason is the people who passionately deliver all of this with a dedication I've rarely, if ever have witnessed before. Bruno, behind the bar, has to be one of the coolest dudes you will ever meet. We had dinner at the bar and watched him treat every single customer as his dearest friend. Aside his genuine friendliness and warmth, he may be one of the very best bartenders in the world. We talked about food, music and travel seamlessly while he expertly mixed dozens of cocktails, never missing a beat. I also met Johna, the head assistant chef, who amazed me with his passion for the products they source and serve. I cant say enough just how special it feels to be in the company of such passion and excellence. This band of individuals, each play their role with care, and when it all comes together, it's magical. Just like an amazing musical group. Oh, and all this out of a kitchen that would be more at home in a food truck than this 5 star restaurant. More magic.
Rachel Lee★★★★★
Had the BEST time at Skull’s Rainbow Room! We were celebrating a birthday, and they seated us right in front of the stage. Truly the best seats in the house and made for such a fun, memorable experience. Our server was phenomenal- incredibly attentive, down-to-earth, and made the night even better (wish I could remember his name!). The cocktails were also 10/10. The best whiskey sour and dirty martinis we’ve had. Shoutout to Allen/Adam for making them to perfection! We had a great time in Nashville and this was definitely the highlight of the trip.
Shawn Sturgeon★★★★★
This place is next level. While in town for a conference I took some customers there for dinner. It’s off the beaten path but less than a 10-minute walk from Broadway. They had live music that wasn’t overpowering — you could actually hold conversations. The drinks were top shelf and the food was an experience. The prime rib was one to remember and we all shared a Wagyu that literally melted in your mouth. We got there early right as they opened. By the time we left it was standing room only. Get reservations! We had a group of 10 and had no problem booking a table the day before. Highly recommend.

Husk Nashville

Husk Nashville

Address37 Rutledge St, Nashville, TN 37210
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 – 10:30 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:30 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Phone(615) 256-6565
Tammi J★★★★☆
Had dinner here with a colleague of mine and thought the food was OK. I think we dyed hair at the wrong season because this place is known for farm table and it is a nice storm in Nashville. I don’t think they’re ruining anything at this time. I would come back in the summer. We had the steak tartare and it was delicious. There was some sort of citrus taste to it. They added cabbage, which I never had before. That was very good. I did the jerk shrimp and grits. I felt like there was too much going on in that particular dish just way too much. The swordfish was made perfectly. I enjoyed that I had a piece of my girlfriend. Nice restaurant.
Tamara Burkett★★★★★
Elegant dining experience in a historic style home turned restaurant featuring seasonal chef inspired food utilizing an on site garden. Fresh oysters, perfectly seared steak that is melt in your mouth delicious, lovely sauces, tender pork chops and the butter beans were amazing. Very creative use of ingredients.
Star★★★★★
We visited for brunch, and it was an amazing experience! Everything was fresh and cooked to perfection. I enjoyed a virgin Bloody Mary, which was delicious and full of flavor. The eggs Benedict served on a light biscuit with thickly sliced Canadian bacon were simply perfect. The server was friendly, and the restaurant, set in an old home, exudes classic charm and nostalgia. It's truly a hidden gem!
David Sullivan★★★★★
Absolutely lovely dinner in Nashville on my last night. Food and drinks excellent. The cheddar biscuits and the country ham with peach were to die for. I love how the menu changes and I’ve got to try new dishes everytime I come. Refined American comfort food in a relaxing atmosphere with slick service. The dessert I had which was a Coca-Cola cake was ridiculously good. A must if you’re ever in Nashville for me !
stephanie stone★★☆☆☆
The concept of this restaurant is beautiful. The home is so nicely done. We were so excited to visit Nashville and experience this restaurant. I felt my husband and I were dressed nicely and respectful. I’m not sure if it was that we have tattoos. But, the unnecessary comments from the waitstaff and the feeling of being put off really made paying $400 for a dinner not worth it. I felt as though if I asked my server a question she would look away or roll her eyes. It was almost if she was repulsed to speak to me. Then another server kept making jabbing comments every time she would come clear our table. Instead of enjoying the night with my husband all I could think about is what did I do wrong? If I was to rate the food, the steak we had was phenomenal and the house red wine was so delicious. To top it off the cola cake was to die for. Overall it was an experience I could not wait to get out of because I was so uncomfortable. Unfortunately, this is a place I would never recommend or come back to.

Harriet's Rooftop

Harriet's Rooftop

Address710 Demonbreun St 19th Floor, Nashville, TN 37203
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Friday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Phone(615) 510-0426
Stephanie Sandoval★★★★★
Such amazing and kind service! We arrived 45 minutes early and they were able to seat us without any issues. Everyone was incredibly accommodating from the moment we arrived. Our waitress was wonderful, thoughtful, and made great drink recommendations. She was very attentive throughout our meal and always made sure we had everything we needed. The views were amazing, and the space itself was beautiful. Overall, a fantastic experience, and I would definitely return if we are ever back in town.
Atul Govande★★★★★
Beautiful ambiance, excellent service, and a great vibe! We had a wonderful time, but we really wish the food menu was a bit larger. This place is so lovely you want to stay for hours, and many people definitely come for dinner. Expanding the menu would make this spot unbeatable. Highly recommended!!
Savannah Dancer★★★★★
Stopped by Harriet’s Rooftop for the first time on Wednesday afternoon and sat at the bar, beautiful place with incredible staff and great a tequila selection! Ava, the bartender, was amazing and sweet. she recommended the Nightfall Roll and it was delicious. Great rec, Ava! She’s the kind of bartender who makes you feel like she’s got your back, and I really appreciated her service. Jasmine, the hostess up front, was also incredibly sweet. Thank you, Harriet’s Rooftop, for a great experience. I’ll be back!
Lakeisha Williams★★★★★
Harriet’s Rooftop is one of those Nashville spots that immediately sets a tone—upscale, earthy, and effortlessly cool. The space has a warm, grounded vibe that pairs beautifully with the skyline views, and the music adds just the right energy without overwhelming the room. The service is where Harriet’s really shines. The bartenders and servers were extremely attentive and genuinely friendly, the kind of team that makes you feel looked after from the moment you sit down. It’s rare to find a rooftop bar that balances style with true hospitality, but Harriet’s nails it. I ordered the wagyu potstickers, and they were fantastic—rich, flavorful, and perfectly seared, a great match for the elevated atmosphere. Harriet’s Rooftop is an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a stylish spot with great food, great music, and standout service.
Lauren Rhyne★★★★★
We LOVED Harriet’s. The servers were so incredible and kind. Complimentary champagne to celebrate a 21st birthday. Yummy edamame. Drinks were delicious too! Beautiful view of downtown.

Hand Cut Nashville

Hand Cut Nashville

Address135 7th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Phone(615) 465-2435
Dennis Smith★★★★★
Hand Cut Nashville is inside the Embassy Suite Hottel in downtown Nashville. I had a great steak salad and my wife had a hamburger with sweet potato fries (which were the best I have ever tasted, so far)! My wife had a Blackberry Mojito which was fantastic! My Margherita was great as well. There was live music on Saturday night. The was valet parking next door.
Moo Moo Munchies★★★★☆
We stopped in here because we were trying to watch the last quarter of the NBA finals game and saw they had it on one of their TVs so we stopped in and sat at the bar. The interior is very upscale and nice and there was some super good live acoustic music which was a nice ambiance. We were able to listen to live music and watch the last part of the game. We just ordered dessert because we had already had dinner elsewhere. We got a diet coke, and a butter cake. The butter cake was actually very good and pretty big. The only downside was that it was $16 which is kind of pricey for butter cake and the ice cream could have been a bit more softened. It tasted pretty good though. The diet coke was also nice and crisp. The staff was super nice and put up with us yelling at the tv. The live music was also really good. Can't speak to dinner here but it was a nice vibe and had good butter cake.
Alyisa Mesa★★★★★
Five stars all around! From the drinks and delicious food to the live music and vibrant atmosphere, everything exceeded our expectations. The service was exceptional, and Taylor went above and beyond to make sure our party of eight had a fantastic experience. Everyone in our group had an amazing time. I would absolutely recommend this place and will definitely be back!
Alethia Osesek★★★★★
5/5 stars for sure. Food was all amazing, drinks were delicious. William was our server and was not only welcoming, but also made our experience wonderful. The live music was a great touch & the talent was arguably better than most of the Broadway musicians. We will definitely return regularly when in the area!
Dannah Paola★★★★☆
the restaurant itself was beautiful, the music, and the architecture was amazing. however i do think the steaks were a little overpriced as they weren’t worth the price. i ordered a filet mignon that came burnt around the edges which threw off the taste, and my husband ordered the ribeye, which while good, had a lot of fat. i won’t complain too much because the ranch house salad was amazing. literally the best salad i had ever had. i’ve been looking since then to find the type of cheese that was used because it was literally just that good. if you come to this restaurant i highly recommend the salad.

417 Union

417 Union

Address417 Union St, Nashville, TN 37219
MapsClick here
WebsiteClick here
Opening HoursMonday: 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Saturday: 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Sunday: 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Phone(615) 401-7241
Gregory McDermott★★★★★
Great diner, great staff, great food…. Just visit 417 Union to experience it for yourself. We love this place and are a family of 5, 3 young boys and mom and pop. I was buzzing to explore Nash with the coffee they had and the food was noteworthy.
Mitchell Rosen★★★★★
Wonderful breakfast spot in downtown Nashville. Walking distance from many hotels. Nice military theme and honor. Food was fantastic and our host and server were super friendly and responsive. Will definitely eat there again when in town.
Míra Sztanojev★★★★★
Best pancakes I ate here! So fluffy and yet so tasty! The blueberry lemon ones are out of this world, perfect amont of sweet and soury. Definately come here if you wish to have some good american pancakes. The building itself gives a very soecial vibe as well.
Tom Mull★★★★★
We stayed at a VRBO literally Nextdoor and went to breakfast on a Monday morning. They were super busy and now I know why. The food portions are huge, amazing flavor, and the service was excellent. I do you recommend several items and sharing, as the portions are huge and flavorful?
Ryan Watson★★★★★
Randomly decided to stop at this place while shuttling a car to Ft. Bragg and I'm so happy we did. What an awesome little place! It feels like you're taking a step into the past when America was actually proud of their warriors. The food was incredible as well, the smoked brisket hash really hit the spot. If I ever find myself in Nashville again I will definitely be stopping by again!

How to Make the Most of Nashville’s Dining Scene

Navigating Nashville’s restaurant scene requires a bit of strategy, especially if your visit coincides with a major event like a Titans game, a concert, or a bachelorette weekend rush. The city’s hospitality industry works at a relentless pace, and the most popular rooms fill up days or even weeks in advance. By following a few practical guidelines, you can avoid the frustration of long waits and ensure your meals are as memorable as the music. These tips are designed to help you eat like a local, not a tourist, and to maximize your time and budget.

Book reservations as early as possible. Many of the top restaurants release tables 30 days out, and prime dinner slots disappear within hours. Set a calendar reminder for the day bookings open for your target date. If you cannot get a reservation, ask about bar seating or late-night availability, which often opens up the same day.

Embrace the lunch menu. Dinner at a top Nashville restaurant can be expensive and crowded, but the lunch service at the same establishment often offers a nearly identical menu at a lower price point. You will also find it much easier to secure a table. This is the smartest way to experience high-end Southern cooking on a mid-range budget.

Explore beyond downtown. Lower Broadway is fun for honky-tonks, but the food there is generally geared toward high-volume tourism. For a more authentic meal, take a short rideshare to East Nashville, Germantown, or Wedgewood-Houston. These neighborhoods are where locals actually eat and where chefs take more creative risks.

Do not skip the vegetable plates. Southern cuisine is about more than fried chicken and barbecue. The “meat-and-three” tradition showcases seasonal produce, slow-cooked greens, and creative casseroles. Ordering a vegetable plate is often the best way to taste the true skill of a Southern kitchen and is usually one of the most affordable items on the menu.

Check social media for daily specials. Nashville chefs frequently post off-menu items, pop-up collaborations, and last-minute cancellations on Instagram Stories. Following your shortlist of restaurants before your trip can give you access to dishes and tables that never appear on the official website or reservation platform.

Be flexible with your timing. Eating dinner at 5:30 p.m. or 9:30 p.m. dramatically increases your chances of walking into a busy restaurant without a reservation. The peak rush between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. is when wait times are longest. Adjusting your schedule by an hour can transform your experience.

Nashville’s food scene rewards curiosity and a willingness to step outside the standard tourist itinerary. Whether you are craving a perfectly smoked brisket, a delicate plate of handmade pasta, or a spicy bowl of hot chicken that demands a cold local beer, the city delivers with a confidence that matches its musical reputation.

The best meals here tell a story about the people who make them—their roots, their influences, and their respect for the land and ingredients of Tennessee. Take your time, talk to your servers, and let the city’s hospitality guide you. In Nashville, the table is just another stage, and the performance is always worth the ticket.