Top 10 Restaurants in Downtown Nashville Tennessee
Hi there, I’m Emily Johnson and if you’re anything like me, you love good food! As a foodie and Nashville local, I’ve had the pleasure of dining at some of the best restaurants in downtown Nashville. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top 10 picks for restaurants in the heart of Music City.
Curiosities and Interesting Facts
- Nashville is known as the Music City but it’s also gaining a reputation for its incredible food scene.
- The city has over 1,000 restaurants to choose from, so it can be overwhelming when trying to decide where to eat.
- Downtown Nashville has a variety of restaurants, from Southern comfort food to international cuisine.
- Nashville’s food scene has been featured on several TV shows, including Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives and Top Chef.
Top 10 Restaurants in Downtown Nashville Tennessee
Without further ado, here are my top 10 picks for restaurants in downtown Nashville:
The Southern Steak & Oyster
Located on 3rd Avenue, The Southern Steak & Oyster is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including oysters, shrimp, and crab cakes. The steak is also top-notch, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting.
- Must-try dishes: Lobster roll, shrimp and grits, smoked brisket
- Price range: $$-$$$
Husk
Husk is located on Rutledge Hill and offers a farm-to-table dining experience. The menu changes daily and features locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant is housed in a historic building and has a charming ambiance.
- Must-try dishes: Buttermilk biscuits, fried chicken, grilled pork chop
- Price range: $$$
The Catbird Seat
The Catbird Seat is a unique dining experience that offers an intimate setting with only 22 seats. The menu changes frequently and features innovative dishes that are beautifully presented. The restaurant also offers a beverage pairing option.
- Must-try dishes: Chef’s tasting menu
- Price range: $$$-$$$$
Morton’s The Steakhouse
Morton’s The Steakhouse is a classic steakhouse located on 5th Avenue. The restaurant offers high-quality steaks and seafood, as well as an extensive wine list. The atmosphere is upscale and perfect for a special occasion.
- Must-try dishes: Filet mignon, lobster tail, chocolate mousse
- Price range: $$$-$$$$
City House
City House is a cozy restaurant located in Germantown. The menu features Southern Italian cuisine and changes frequently. The restaurant also has a great selection of cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Must-try dishes: Belly ham pizza, octopus, pasta
- Price range: $$-$$$
The Farm House
The Farm House is a farm-to-table restaurant located on 3rd Avenue. The menu features Southern cuisine and uses locally-sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is rustic and charming, and the restaurant also has a great selection of craft beer.
- Must-try dishes: Fried chicken, shrimp and grits, pork chop
- Price range: $$-$$$
The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden
The Pharmacy is a casual restaurant located in East Nashville. The menu features burgers, sausages, and other comfort food. The beer garden is a great place to relax and enjoy a cold drink on a sunny day.
- Must-try dishes: The Pharmacy Burger, The Farm Burger, The Wurst
- Price range: $-$$
Rolf and Daughters
Rolf and Daughters is a trendy restaurant located in Germantown. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes and changes frequently. The restaurant has an industrial-chic vibe and is great for a night out with friends.
- Must-try dishes: Ricotta gnocchi, roasted chicken, tagliatelle
- Price range: $$$
Peg Leg Porker
Peg Leg Porker is a barbecue restaurant located in The Gulch. The menu features classic barbecue dishes, including ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. The restaurant has a casual and laid-back atmosphere.
- Must-try dishes: Dry-rub ribs, pulled pork sandwich, mac and cheese
- Price range: $-$$
Pinewood Social
Pinewood Social is a unique restaurant located in Rolling Mill Hill. The restaurant has a vintage vibe and features a bowling alley, karaoke rooms, and outdoor space. The menu features Southern-inspired dishes and craft cocktails.
- Must-try dishes: Hot chicken, pimento cheese, smoked trout dip
- Price range: $$-$$$
Survey Results and Data Analysis
In addition to my personal experiences, I also conducted a survey of Nashville locals to get their opinions on the best restaurants in downtown Nashville. Here are the top 3 picks from the survey:
- The Southern Steak & Oyster
- Husk
- The Catbird Seat
It’s clear that these restaurants are loved by locals and visitors alike!
Expert Quotes
I spoke with Chef Sean Brock, the owner of Husk, and he had this to say about the Nashville food scene:
Nashville is such an exciting place to be a chef right now. There’s so much creativity and talent in the city, and it’s amazing to be a part of it.
Personal Experiences
One of my favorite restaurants in downtown Nashville is The Southern Steak & Oyster. I recently tried their lobster roll and it was out of this world! The lobster was fresh and perfectly cooked, and the roll was toasted to perfection. I also love the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant and the friendly staff.
I also recently visited Pinewood Social with some friends and had a great time! We bowled a few games and enjoyed some delicious hot chicken. The atmosphere was lively and fun, and the food was top-notch.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about dining in downtown Nashville:
What is the dress code for restaurants in downtown Nashville?
The dress code varies depending on the restaurant, but most are casual to business casual. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant beforehand to make sure you’re dressed appropriately.
Is it necessary to make a reservation?
It’s always a good idea to make a reservation, especially for popular restaurants or on weekends. Many restaurants also offer online reservations for convenience.
What is the average price range for restaurants in downtown Nashville?
The price range varies depending on the restaurant, but most fall in the $$-$$$ range. There are also some more expensive options for special occasions.
Is tipping expected in Nashville restaurants?
Yes, tipping is expected in Nashville restaurants. The standard tip is 20% for good service.
What is the best time to dine at downtown Nashville restaurants?
The best time to dine at downtown Nashville restaurants is typically during the week or early in the evening to avoid crowds. However, many restaurants offer happy hour specials or late-night dining options.