Nashville may be known for its honky-tonks and hot chicken, but its culinary scene has evolved into something far more expansive—and delicious. From smoky Southern staples to globally inspired tasting menus, the city is now a playground for ambitious chefs, cozy neighborhood joints, and unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re a lifelong local or a curious foodie traveler, these 10 restaurants are the cream of the crop in Music City.
1. The Catbird Seat
Image Credit: Nashville Scene
his intimate, 22-seat chef’s counter is one of the most thrilling dining experiences in Nashville. The ambiance is sleek and modern, with an open kitchen that puts you right in the middle of the action. Service is incredibly polished yet personable, with the chefs often delivering dishes themselves. While the tasting menu comes at a premium, it’s worth every cent for the creativity and craft. The cuisine is modern American with global twists.
Best Dish to Try: The menu changes frequently, but expect imaginative courses like duck with koji or black garlic ice cream.
Unique Elements: A rotating chef-driven concept, immersive kitchen views, and a menu that constantly evolves.
Overall Impression: A bucket-list destination for adventurous eaters—equal parts culinary theater and fine dining artistry.
2. Rolf and Daughters
Image Credit: Rolf and Daughters
Set in a chic industrial space in Germantown, Rolf and Daughters offers a warm, bustling vibe with communal tables and exposed brick. The service is friendly and fast-paced without being rushed. Prices are fair for the top-tier quality of ingredients and execution. The cuisine is Mediterranean-leaning New American.
Best Dish to Try: The house-made squid ink mafaldine with shrimp and chili butter.
Unique Elements: Bold pasta program, inventive small plates, and a curated natural wine list.
Overall Impression: A must-visit for pasta lovers and fans of creative, shareable plates with flair.
3. Audrey
Image Credit: Kristen M
Celebrity chef Sean Brock’s Audrey is an homage to Appalachian cuisine with a fine-dining lens. The space feels tranquil and elegant, filled with light and rustic-modern accents. Service is knowledgeable and deeply passionate about the ingredients. It’s a higher price point, but the storytelling in each dish makes it worth it.
Best Dish to Try: Grits with country ham and sorghum—a tribute to Southern roots, elevated.
Unique Elements: Deep Appalachian focus, house-milled grains, and dishes tied to memory and heritage.
Overall Impression: An emotional, ingredient-driven dining experience that redefines what Southern food can be.
4. City House
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Located in a converted home in Germantown, City House blends Southern soul with Italian technique. The ambiance is cozy yet stylish, perfect for group dinners or a romantic date. Service is welcoming and well-paced. It’s very reasonably priced considering the high-quality fare. The cuisine is Southern-Italian fusion.
Best Dish to Try: Belly Ham Pizza topped with a farm egg.
Unique Elements: A Sunday Supper tradition with off-menu specials, and a beloved wood-fired oven.
Overall Impression: A neighborhood favorite that feels like Nashville on a plate—creative, comforting, and full of heart.
5. Husk
Image Credit: Marisol R.
Housed in a stunning old mansion, Husk is a Southern fine-dining classic with an ingredient-first ethos. The ambiance is sophisticated but relaxed, with Southern charm in every corner. Service is warm and informative, making diners feel cared for. The price matches the quality and setting. The cuisine is heirloom-driven Southern.
Best Dish to Try: Cornbread made with heritage grains and served in a sizzling skillet.
Unique Elements: Daily changing menu based on local farms, in-house charcuterie, and Southern heritage ingredients.
Overall Impression: A refined celebration of the region’s culinary roots with impeccable attention to detail.
6. Henrietta Red
Image Credit: John R.
This bright and breezy Germantown spot is known for its oysters and coastal-inspired fare. The ambiance is modern and light, with an inviting raw bar and soft lighting. Service is casual but well-informed and quick. It’s moderately priced and perfect for date night or brunch. The cuisine is seafood-centric New American.
Best Dish to Try: The wood-roasted oysters with anchovy butter.
Unique Elements: Rotating oyster selections, vegetable-forward small plates, and breezy minimalist décor.
Overall Impression: A refreshing, stylish option for seafood lovers with a Southern twist.
7. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack
Image Credit: Miachel U.
No Nashville list is complete without hot chicken, and Prince’s is the original. The ambiance is no-frills, counter-service style, but that’s part of its charm. Service is brisk and efficient, but the real star is the chicken. It’s incredibly affordable and delivers massive flavor. The cuisine is Nashville Hot Chicken.
Best Dish to Try: Medium-spiced quarter chicken with white bread and pickles.
Unique Elements: The birthplace of Nashville hot chicken, legendary spice blends, and unmatched authenticity.
Overall Impression: A culinary landmark that’s fiery, iconic, and 100% essential to the Nashville food experience.
8. Margot Café & Bar
Image Credit: Hank D.
Located in East Nashville, Margot is a cozy, French-inspired bistro with a homey yet elevated feel. The ambiance is romantic and intimate, with soft lighting and rotating artwork. Service is warm and highly attentive. It’s fairly priced for a European-style fine-dining experience. The cuisine is French and Southern fusion.
Best Dish to Try: Duck confit with seasonal vegetables and fig gastrique.
Unique Elements: Daily changing chalkboard menus, hyper-local ingredients, and a charming old-building setting.
Overall Impression: A timeless favorite with soul, perfect for a slow and indulgent meal.
9. Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria
Image Credit: Denise D.
This hip-hop-inspired pizza shop is a burst of energy and flavor, located in North Nashville. The ambiance is bold and vibrant with murals and music playing nonstop. Service is quick and upbeat. The price is excellent, especially for the customizable pizzas. The cuisine is artisanal pizza with Southern swagger.
Best Dish to Try: The “Got 5 On It” with five different cheeses.
Unique Elements: Build-your-own pizza model, local beer pairings, and strong community roots.
Overall Impression: A cool, creative hangout with killer pies and an unapologetically Nashville vibe.
10. Lockeland Table
Image Credit: Cinda S.
A rustic gem in East Nashville, Lockeland Table feels like a neighborhood gathering spot with gourmet flair. The ambiance is warm and woodsy with an open kitchen and communal energy. Service is friendly and attentive without pretense. The prices are surprisingly accessible for the high quality. The cuisine is Southern-rooted New American.
Best Dish to Try: Pork chop with sweet potato puree and cider glaze.
Unique Elements: Daily community hour with discounted food and cocktails, open-fire cooking, and a locally-loved wine list.
Overall Impression: A welcoming spot where comfort meets culinary excellence—it’s like dining in a friend’s gourmet kitchen.
Final Thoughts: Your Nashville Culinary Adventure Begins Here
Whether you’re craving a life-changing tasting menu or a fiery plate of hot chicken, Nashville delivers with unmatched heart and flavor. These ten restaurants represent the city’s evolving identity—a blend of deep Southern roots, global inspiration, and passionate chefs who know how to feed your soul. But remember, this is just the beginning. Every block in Music City hides its own secret gems. So get out there, explore, and discover your own favorite bite of Nashville.
