The holiday season … a time for joyful celebration, tables piled high with our favorite dishes, and spirited gatherings with friends and family. What better way to combine all three than to visit one of Nashville’s newest restaurants? From Wedgewood-Houston to Franklin, we’re welcoming opportunities to enjoy everything from deli sandwiches and charcuterie boards to hot chicken. Dig in!
51st Deli: West End
Neighborhood: Midtown
More info: 51stdeli.com
If you’re a fan of this beloved go-to in The Nations, you’re in luck — 51st Deli’s second location is officially open! First things first, we are HUGE fans of the breakfast burrito. Huge. But that doesn’t touch the surface of the fantastic items on the menu, whether you’re in the mood for something hot or cold — from sandwiches and tacos to the most extensive selection of sides you can imagine.
The Amsterdamian
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: theamsterdamian.com
Open since Friday, November 17, this cocktail-centric East Nashville spot also features a select menu of favorites such as fondue, bruschetta, and dessert. When it comes to libations, the fall menu has a hot buttered rum that isn’t to be missed! Owner Martin Terporten is a native of the Netherlands, and he tells us, “The reason for the name is that when I first moved to the U.S. 20 years ago, people sometimes thought Amsterdam was a country, and they would ask if I spoke Amsterdamian!”
Martin is delivering a dose of his home to the East Side, thanks to vibrant beverages and an equally vibrant atmosphere. “I wanted to capture the vibe of a classy European hideaway without being too on the nose with the Amsterdam theme,” he says. “So even though the place is called The Amsterdamian, you’ll find gentle nods to themes pertaining to the Netherlands in general.”
Burger + Grain
Neighborhood: The Nations
More info: burgerandgrain.com
The Nations’ newest culinary neighbor is causing a buzz. Located in the Stocking 51 development, Burger + Grain offers an open-kitchen concept and a menu filled with fresh, local ingredients. Dive into dishes such as the in-house dry-aged carpaccio, bourbon-braised short rib dumplings, a French dip sandwich, or entrées like dry-aged rib eye and whole-grilled branzino. They also promise an extensive wine and whiskey program.
Cherries
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: Instagram
If you’re craving an outdoor courtyard where you can enjoy boozy frozen drinks and cold beer, along with a selection of bites from the wood-fired grill (think tacos, skewers, and sandwiches), you’re in luck. Open since Friday, November 17, Cherries is Dickerson Pike’s newest go-to. “Visitors can expect beautiful landscapes, a courtyard complete with a full outdoor bar, plenty of feeding arrangements, and super cool music,” says Paul Black of Amaranth Hospitality. “The interior, like the concept itself, is super lovely and approachable, with quasi-coastal vibes, lush plants provided by Oasis Design, and a marble bar that features frozen cocktails, beer on ice — and again, super cool music.”
Hattie B’s
Neighborhood: Franklin
More info: hattieb.com
Franklin’s hot chicken fans are in luck! With five locations in Middle Tennessee, you can now find Hattie B’s Hot Chicken at The Factory. The family-owned-and-operated fast-casual restaurant can be found in the building next to the “Rusty the Metal Man” statue, and you can expect all of your hot chicken favorites like sandwiches, tenders, wings, and waffles. And don’t forget the banana pudding! You can also snag a local craft beer or batch cocktail, such as the hot chicken-and-dill pickle-infused hot Bloody Mary.
Mercado by Butchertown
Neighborhood: Wedgewood-Houston
More info: mercadobtown.com
The Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood just gained another culinary notch in its belt. Introducing Mercado by Butchertown — and yes, there’s an affiliation to Butchertown Hall!
“Mercado features flavors of the Baja California region, like ceviche and aguachiles,” says Paul Black of Amaranth Hospitality. Get ready for fresh oysters in the raw bar and even some of your Butchertown favorites like queso and oak-smoked brisket. And don’t forget to accompany it all with a margarita! In fact, take it to the rooftop bar, Ramone’s, where you can snag some raw oysters and charcuterie, too.
Puttshack
Neighborhood: The Gulch
More info: puttshack.com
Puttshack majors in food and fun. With an official opening on Thanksgiving, the mini-golf mecca is making a splash for locals and tourists alike. Perfectly situated in The Gulch near Pins Mechanical, you can “Tee up. Eat up. Drink up.” Get ready for neon lights, beer pong, and an extensive menu that features everything from lamb skewers and Thai octopus to chorizo and cheese empanadas or Korean BBQ bao buns. Talk about international flair. And did we mention the great list of craft cocktails?
Retrograde Coffee + The Bar at Retrograde
Neighborhood: City Heights
More info: retrogradecoffee.com
With a new storefront in historic City Heights, Retrograde Coffee delivers just the cozy neighborhood coffee stop we need — and much more. You can look forward to handcrafted caffeinated beverages and house-made sourdough bagels by day, but then the space transitions into The Bar at Retrograde by night, offering seasonal cocktails, an impressive wine selection, and heavy bites like meatballs, charcuterie, and yes, more delicious sourdough bagels. (When we recently visited, our first thought was, “Great date night spot!”)
Southern Turf Club
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: southernturfclub.com
Downtown’s new Southern Turf Club may be membership-based, but it’s worth mentioning. Located in Printer’s Alley’s historic Queen Anne building, built in 1839, the spot is above Skull’s Rainbow Room — owned by the same proprietor, Bill Miller. Peruse the 18th-century artifacts and antiques collection as you sip spirits, smoke a cigar from the curated list, and enjoy bites such as shrimp and scallop ceviche, caviar service, or prime filet mignon.
Vui’s Juice Café
Neighborhood: The Gulch
More info: vuisjuicecafe.com
Vui and John Hunt have done it again! Following their successful juice bar opening in Berry Hill, the dynamic duo opened a second location in The Gulch. The breakfast-forward menu offers fresh juice, a full coffee bar, homemade boba tea, açai bowls, breakfast toasts, and so much more. You can dine inside the eatery, but it’s a quick stop-in if you’re looking for something to take with you, too!
Still hungry? Keep scrolling for even more recent openings, and sign up for our daily emails to stay in the know.
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UPDATES FROM NOVEMBER 2023
The weather is turning crisp — ideal for morning walks, picnics in the park, and, of course, patio dining and cozy nights on the town. Whether you’re looking to cozy up at a vintage-themed bar, hang out at a retro speakeasy in the back of a barbershop, or take in the sunshine while you snack on Mediterranean bites, you’re in luck. Check out these 10 new Nashville restaurants and bars that opened this month!
Bad Idea
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: badideanashville.com
Wait until you see the gorgeous interior of East Nashville’s newest wine bar, built inside a renovated church. After a number of memorable pop-ups, Bad Idea has finally begun its official residency in a brick-and-mortar. Wine expert Alex Burch makes wine approachable, offering roughly 125 wines with no shortage of tasty food options to enjoy, too. The menu offers up a playful range of Lao cuisine — from Nam Khao Croquettes served with Lao tomato dipping sauce to Scallop-Stuffed Crêpes.
Bar Continental
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: barcontinentalhifi.com
Bestia Mare
Neighborhood: Franklin
More info: bestiamaretn.com
Franklin’s newest restaurant and rooftop bar is the brainchild of Chef Frank Pullara, who’s no stranger to the historic downtown area. In fact, he also owns Culaccino, which is virtually across the street. The flavors of coastal Italy are present in every dish, with a seafood-centric menu that features ceviche, snapper crudo, and so much more … including classic cocktails and a great lineup of Italian wines. Our personal favorites? The octopus carpaccio, Kale salad with white anchovies, and linguini with clams. Incredible.
Blind Barber
Neighborhood: The Gulch
More info: blindbarber.com
Nashville joins the roster of cities that feature a Blind Barber location, which originated in New York’s East Village. Picture a classic barber shop by day (from haircuts to shaves to styling) and a sexy, retro speakeasy by night. Get ready for small bites and craft cocktails like the Southern Charm (featuring bourbon, passionfruit liqueur, pineapple, lemon, angostura bitters, and mint) and Sun’s Cup (scotch, tequila, fino sherry, lemon, and ginger). Plus, you can vibe with tunes from local DJs!
Grandpa Bar
Neighborhood: Marathon Village
More info: grandpabar.com
This coffee and cocktail bar is Marathon Village’s newest spot for caffeine and signature libations. Open at 7 a.m. on the weekdays, stop in before work for espressos, lattes, teas, and pastries. In the evening, snag a seat and try a specialty beverage like the Chai Me a River (a spiced chai with espresso and bourbon) or the Only Tenn I See Old Fashioned (featuring Tennessee whiskey, angostura bitters, orange essence, and Goo Goo Cluster-inspired syrup).
Sabell’s
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: Instagram
East Nashville is a mecca for quaint houses-turned-eateries or bars, and Sabell’s is the newest addition to its roster. Located in a colorful 1930s bungalow, this new 21-and-over taverna offers mezze plates, a full bar, and a great patio. “We wanted a place of our own for quite some time but couldn’t find a space that excited us,” say owners (and husband-and-wife team) Matt and Stephanie Sabelli. “This was an abandoned house in the middle of a parking lot owned by Mitchell’s Deli, where my wife and I both worked,” Matt says. “One day, we asked what their plan was for the building, and they didn’t have one, so the journey began!”
Schulman’s
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: schulmansbar.com
If you’ve been searching for a local bar where you can pull up a seat, snag a cold one, play darts, and converse with friends and neighbors, this is the place. Named after David “Skull” Schulman, who pioneered Nashville’s dive bar scene with Skull’s Rainbow Room, Schulman’s is the unpretentious neighborhood joint you’ve been looking for, with vintage signs, leather barstools, and a no-fuss menu that includes fried pickles, a fried bologna sandwich, and a pastrami dip. Owner and entrepreneur Bill Miller says, “You’re only a stranger once. We actually got that from a beer sign, but it’s true!”
Supper Club on Belcourt
Neighborhood: Hillsboro Village
More info: ilovesupperclub.com
Nashville’s newest trendy spot, Supper Club on Belcourt has taken over the old Cabana location in Hillsboro Village. A hop, skip, and jump from the main drag, the restaurant offers an enthusiastic approach to cocktails and cuisine — from the Suit and Rye (bourbon and rye whiskey, lemon, peach, and a Memphis BBQ house blend infusion) to the five-hour braised shortribs served over creamy polenta. Oh, and the interior is certainly Instagram-worthy, with a room that boasts pink flamingo wallpaper.
SweetMilk
Neighborhood: Donelson
More info: sweetmilkeats.com
Pat Martin of Hugh Baby’s fame recently opened the doors on his new independent venture, SweetMilk. Based on the traditional Southern fare his grandmother used to make, the menu serves up breakfast and lunch favorites such as scratch-made biscuits, mill-ground grits, pancakes with hickory syrup, cast-iron fried chicken, and country-fried steak. There’s even a list of natural wines and local brews.
Tiger Bar
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: Instagram
Still hungry? Keep scrolling for even more recent openings, and sign up for our daily emails to stay in the know.
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UPDATES FROM SEPTEMBER 2023
Summer weather is finally waning, but restaurant openings certainly are not. The cooler September temps are ushering in perfect patio weather and a ton of new eateries where we can appreciate it — from sports bars to brunch spots to Spanish-style tapas. Here are nine new Nashville restaurants to put on your must-try list.
Black Market Bar & Grill
Neighborhood: Printer’s Alley
More info: bmbnashville.com
Printer’s Alley has a new spot for colorful nightlife and eclectic eats. The Birmingham-born Black Market Bar & Grill has expanded to Music City, bringing its menu of sandwiches, wings, burgers, and beyond. For a bit of international flavor, start with the Greek egg roll or pork empanada appetizers, then indulge in a craft burger. We recommend the Trashcan if you’re feeling adventurous — the staff will pick your toppings! The Disgraceland burger offers a twist on a breakfast burger with peanut butter, jelly, egg, and bacon.
Evelyn’s at the Hutton Hotel
Neighborhood: West End
More info: huttonhotel.com/evelyns
The Hutton Hotel’s new Americana-inspired restaurant, Evelyn’s serves up breakfast, dinner, and weekend brunch. The restaurant pays tribute to hotelier and socialite Evelyn Sharp, capturing her love of art collection in its menu selections. You can look forward to a seasonal menu with modernized classics like roasted artichoke hearts and Parisian gnocchi to Nashville Hot Fish & Chips. For dessert, snag a S’mores Chocolate Cake or the Evelyn’s Sundae for Two.
Frankie’s Spuntino
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: frankiesnashville.com
Music City was bustling with excitement when Frankie’s Pizzeria opened up at East Nashville’s Laurel & Pine development. After all, it’s the first time the classic New York Italian restaurant has ventured beyond Brooklyn. But now, we have occasion to be even more excited as the main restaurant opens its doors! Enjoy everything from antipasto plates and house-made pasta to authentic eggplant marinara. For dessert, indulge in ricotta cheesecake or red wine prunes and mascarpone.
The Iberian Pig
Neighborhood: The Gulch
More info: iberianpig.com
Coming to us from Atlanta, The Iberian Pig Nashville delivers some seriously delicious (and beautiful!) Spanish-style tapas and charcuterie boards. Given the restaurant’s name, it’s no surprise that Ibérico ham is a standout feature on the menu. But don’t miss out on the abundance of other great options, including eggplant with Persian cucumbers and honey, lamb chops with pistachio and mint, braised short rib empanadas, and Argentinian red shrimp with sherry-garlic-butter sauce.
New York Butcher Shoppe
Neighborhood: Green Hills
More info: nybutcher.com
Founded in South Carolina, this gourmet butcher shop and deli opened its newest location in Green Hills. The shop sells a wide range of meat, cheese, and prepared meals, but you can also snag all of your essential accoutrements while you’re at it — everything from local sauces, seasonings, and charcoal to bottles of wine to pair with your meal. Plus, the list of take-home foods includes chicken parmesan, lasagna, twice-baked potatoes, salads, and so much more.
Snooze: The Gulch
Neighborhood: The Gulch
More info: snoozeeatery.com
Joining its sister location in East Nashville, Snooze has opened a second brunch spot in The Gulch. The Denver-based eatery specializes in all things breakfast-related, and you should plan to arrive hungry! Try the signature Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes, breakfast tacos, eggs benedict options, or the Habañero Pork Belly Breakfast Fried Rice. You can also partake in cocktails like the spicy bloody Mary or Boozy Blood Orange Punch.
Sports & Social
Neighborhood: Green Hills
More info: sportsandsocial.com
Sports fans, rejoice! The Mall at Green Hills doesn’t just host shopping galore; now, there’s also an opportunity to watch your favorite teams play while you enjoy game-day eats! Sports & Social is a dining and entertainment concept offering an epic watching experience courtesy of a 33-foot LED media wall and live fan cams. The menu is extensive, with options including a giant pretzel with stout beer cheese sauce, Philly cheesesteak, burgers, salads, and more. Plus, the weekends offer a chance for brunch, featuring dishes such as avocado toast, breakfast tacos, and chicken and waffles.
Steam Boys
Neighborhood: Harding Place
More info: steamboys.com
If you’re craving authentic Asian comfort food, check out the new Steam Boys location in Harding Place (which joins other nearby locations such as Germantown, Nolensville, Hermitage, and the Assembly Food Hall). The menu features all sorts of wonderful goodies, from steamed pork bao buns and pan-seared chicken dumplings to seafood noodle soup and Thai milk tea. Bring your appetite!
World of Beer
Neighborhood: Midtown
More info: worldofbeer.com
World of Beer offers more than just what’s on tap, from giant Bavarian pretzels to flatbreads, burgers, and char-grilled shrimp. But there’s plenty of that, too! In fact, you can peruse the beer menu, which features a colossal list of brews from around the world. If you’re a beer enthusiast, this is your new spot! But even if you aren’t, there are good eats, free Wi-Fi, sports screens, and fun events like Wing Wednesdays and trivia nights.
Still hungry? Keep scrolling for even more recent openings, and check out our local restaurant guide.
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UPDATES FROM AUGUST 2023
Mother Nature is still bringing the heat, and so is the Nashville restaurant scene. From an elegant new steakhouse to comforting brunch fare and good old-fashioned Brooklyn-style Italian classics, August brought us some tremendous new restaurant openings!
Biscuit Love
Neighborhood: Berry Farms Town Center
More info: biscuitlove.com
We’ve been enjoying Biscuit Love’s brunch since 2012, thanks to its three locations in The Gulch, Hillsboro Village, and Downtown Franklin. Now, we have yet another opportunity to indulge in the eatery’s beloved Southern biscuits and beyond, thanks to its newest brick-and-mortar in Berry Farms Town Center.
You can look forward to all of your favorite signature dishes, from The B-roll (a biscuit cinnamon roll topped with pecan sticky bun sauce and cream cheese icing) to the East Nasty (a buttermilk biscuit topped with fried boneless chicken thigh, aged cheddar, and sausage gravy). Of course, you can also snag take-home biscuit packs and signature Biscuit Love jam to enjoy them anywhere, anytime.
Common Ground
Neighborhood: Berry Hill
More info: cgnashville.getbento.com
Taking over the space formerly occupied by The Yellow Porch, Common Ground is expanding with a second location in Berry Hill — less than a year after opening in Sylvan Park! Feast on everything from the house Focaccia Plate with whipped Boursin and tomato-bacon jam to the Black Hawk Wagyu steak with roasted shallot gremolata.
Open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, there’s plenty of opportunity to dine in. Make sure you stop in for the happy hour — “Common Hour,” as it’s referred to here — when you can order cocktails, beer, and a selection of bites such as a Banh Mi sandwich, crispy smashed potatoes with garlic and queso fresco, and shrimp tacos.
Crema Coffee Roasters
Neighborhood: Brentwood
More info: crema-coffee.com
In one of the most exciting expansions we’ve seen of late, Crema Coffee Roasters has opened in Brentwood! This beloved local coffee purveyor, founded in 2007, has made its way to the Brentwood Place Shopping Center — an opportunity for folks outside of the Metro area to enjoy the classic, ethically sourced coffee beverages (try the coffee soda!) and an expanded food menu (breakfast and lunch) featuring pastries, avocado toast, a breakfast sandwich, housemade granola, the Harvest Salad, a BLT on sourdough, and more. Did we mention there’s also an outdoor patio?
Harper’s Steakhouse
Neighborhood: Rolling Mill Hill
More info: harpers-steakhouse.com
It may be surrounded by construction at the moment, but don’t let that deter you — Harper’s Steakhouse is worth the visit! Located in Peabody Plaza on Lea Avenue, this brand-new concept offers up a culinary journey that includes everything from Big Eye Tuna Sashimi with caviar (which arrives at your table with memorable fanfare) and Beef Wellington Potstickers to entrées like Elk Tenderloin and Prime Rib.
If you’re in the mood to sip something stellar, try the Wagyu Old Fashioned, made with smoked wagyu-washed Jack Daniels Triple Mash. For dessert, try the collab with local sweets company Goo Goo Cluster — a New York-style cheesecake with roasted peanut crust, topped with chocolate ganache and Goo Goo Cluster pieces.
Ichigo Ichie
Neighborhood: Midtown
More info: ichigonashville.com
Nashville’s appetite for Asian-inspired dining is never satisfied, regularly welcoming new locations to enjoy new takes on ramen, sushi, dumplings — you name it. Enter Ichigo Ichie, the newest fine dining addition to Midtown’s Kimpton Aertson building. A moody, modern, dimly-lit dining room invites guests to “Live in the Moment” as they enjoy an elevated sushi experience complete with a beverage program to match. Their impressive drink list boasts carefully curated cocktails, Japanese whiskeys, sake, and wine selections to complement your order. Date night, anyone?
HERO Doughnuts
Neighborhood: Wedgewood-Houston
More info: herodoughnutsandbuns.com
HERO Doughnuts was born in Birmingham, but the ninth location is officially open, and it’s in Wedgewood-Houston! Located in the Live Nation building, this eatery’s menu goes far beyond doughnuts. Open seven days a week, you can stop in for coffee, cocktails, breakfast plates, burgers, salads, and more. Believe it or not, HERO’s best-selling item isn’t even a doughnut. To see what keeps so many people returning for more, try the Folded Egg & Cheese Breakfast Sandwich, which is apparently the fan-favorite menu item at every HERO location.
Joe Muer Seafood
Neighborhood: Capitol View
More info: joemuer.com
Capitol View just got another restaurant richer, courtesy of fine-dining, Detroit-born Joe Muer Seafood. The first location outside of Michigan since its inception in 1929, the seafood-centric spot is set to make its mark on Music City with upscale menu items like Alaskan King Crab legs, oysters Rockefeller, crab-stuffed Atlantic flounder, seafood cioppino, and South African lobster tail. If you’re craving something a little meatier, prime steaks and surf-and-turf platters abound. Accompany your meal with a bottle from the award-winning wine list, and enjoy daily live piano music or snag a seat on the 80-seat patio.
Pelato
Neighborhood: Germantown
More info: pelatorestaurant.com
Renowned Chef (and Luogo owner) Anthony Scotto is taking over Nashville in the best possible way — with delicious Italian fare. His newest concept, Pelato, is a casual, tapas-style trattoria that unquestionably delivers. A true nod to Brooklyn, the menu features shareable small plates like thinly shaved prosciutto (prepared just as it should be!), the Pelato Salad (arguably the best salad this side of New York), meatballs, Arancini, Chicken Parmigiana, and so much more.
You can also get traditional pasta dishes and the classic Sunday Supper, which features family-style pasta with “Sunday Sauce.” For cocktails, fun sippers like the Pelato Palmer and the frozen Pinot Freezio reign supreme.
Still hungry? Keep scrolling for even more recent openings, and check out our local restaurant guide.
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UPDATES FROM JULY 2023
We’re still in the throes of summer, which means plenty more opportunities for patio dining and poolside snacks. And while shade may be tough to come by, good eats certainly aren’t! From healthy salads and house-made pasta to swanky craft cocktails, July brought us several great new options for dining (and drinking) out in Nashville.
Crisp & Green
Neighborhood: The Gulch
More info: crispandgreen.com
If you’re looking for some healthy fast-casual fare, look no further than Crisp & Green. The newest addition to the Nashville Yards complex, the eatery serves up health-conscious, made-from-scratch dishes like salads (everything from cobb to Southwest to Thai-inspired), grain bowls (we’re intrigued by The Bold & The Buffalo, featuring brown rice, arugula, buffalo chicken, carrot, radicchio, white cheddar, roasted cauliflower, croutons, and ranch dressing), açai bowls, and smoothies. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you can snag to-go items as well as dine in.
Fieldhouse Tavern
Neighborhood: The Nations
More info: Facebook
Okay, so Fieldhouse Tavern technically opened at the end of June. But don’t let that stop you from making this one of your go-to spots for sandwiches, burgers, and beyond! From a basket of garlic-parmesan fries to a full menu of grilled cheese options (think tasty combos like grilled steak and provolone or an Italian extravaganza with grilled capicola, bologna, provolone, and cheddar), there’s a vast menu to choose from. There’s also ample outdoor seating, and the bar is open every night until 2 a.m.!
Four Walls
Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: fourwallsnashville.com
The Joseph, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nashville, already has us swooning over the incredible Yolan fine-dining restaurant as well as its rooftop bar, Denim. Now, we have even more reason to celebrate. The hotel recently opened Four Walls, an intimate cocktail bar that merges Music City with Italy and the American West. Think Spaghetti Westerns mixed with an elegant Italian twist. Sip cocktails from Beverage Consultant Kenneth Vanhooser, including selections from the “La Famiglia Negroni” list, which features nine variations of the classic libation. Shareable snacks also wow, with Cheddar Farfalle Crisps and Nashville Hot Corn Nuts. Collected art and a somewhat secretive vibe make it even more enticing.
Frankies Pizzeria
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: frankiesnashville.com
While the highly anticipated main restaurant isn’t quite ready to open its doors at Laurel & Pine, the Frankies team is whetting our whistles with a pizzeria! The authentic (and super popular) Italian spot hails from New York, where the menu is chock-full of housemade pasta and classics like the meatball parmigiana sandwich and eggplant marinara. For now, we can indulge in traditional pizza pies that will beam us to that neighborhood pizza joint in Brooklyn. Stay tuned for the opening of the main affair (Frankies 925 Spuntino) later this summer, followed by The Bottega at Frankies, which will feature specialty food items.
Iggy’s
Neighborhood: Wedgewood-Houston
More info: iggysnashville.com
Brothers Ryan and Matthew Poli are already Nashville restaurant royalty, thanks to their recent stint at The Catbird Seat. The culinary veterans are now opening their own 70-seat dining spot in Wedgewood-Houston — a pasta-centric hangout with craft cocktails and creative Italian dishes. Feast on starters such as scallop crudo and Bear Creek Farm steak tartare or boldly flavored entrées like Agnolotti with whipped ricotta and black truffles or Maine crab tortellini with sea urchin-butter. Plus, you can order from the extensive wine list, which offers plenty of perfect accompaniments. Keep your eye out for The Market, opening in the coming months., where you can grab to-go items like raw pasta, sauces, imported cheeses, and more.
Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery Restaurant
Neighborhood: Marathon Village
More info: greenbrierdistillery.com
You may or may not have noticed that Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery has been undergoing some significant renovations. Well, they’re finished, and there’s a brand new restaurant! A fantastic addition to their Marathon Village digs, the eatery offers a full-service bar (that naturally highlights Nelson’s bourbons and whiskeys) and high-end distillery cuisine with Southern flair. The menu features appetizers like fried green tomatoes, deviled eggs, and BBQ carrots, as well as entrées like a smoked Gifford’s bologna on brioche, a Nashville hot crab sandwich, and a Niman Ranch double patty smash burger. For dessert, your sweet tooth will look forward to options like the German chocolate cake, a peach-and-cinnamon pound cake, and a boozy milkshake.
Reunion Bar
Neighborhood: East Nashville/Five Points
More info: reunionnashville.com
Goodbye, Van Dyke Hotel; hello, Reunion! While we’ll miss the funky lounge at the former Van Dyke Hotel, Five Points has gained Reunion — a boutique hotel featuring eight Airbnb-style rooms — and the Reunion Bar, a fun new spot for snacking, imbibing great cocktails, and of course, people-watching. The menu features a small selection of bites, from queso fries to chicken schnitzel to broccolini with whipped feta and kalamata olive relish served with pita. But the cocktails are the stars of the show, with options like the Rock Jumper (tequila, mezcal, agave, mole bitters) and Lover Boy (espresso vodka, coffee liqueur, vanilla).
Vui’s Juice Café
Neighborhood: Berry Hill
More info: vuiskitchen.com
Taking over the space that used to house the I Love Juice Bar, Vui’s is expanding its culinary enterprise to include an all-day breakfast and brunch menu, fresh juice, and a coffee bar. Enjoy healthy eats like açai bowls and a turkey bacon BLT sandwich while sipping fresh-squeezed orange juice or a boba tea. Word has it that the menu also features quite a few locally sourced items like Guatemalan roasted coffee from Red Bicycle, baked goods from Frothy Monkey, and even bagels from Crieve Hall Bagel Co. Dine-in or hit up the grab-and-go counter to take it with you.
Bonus: Bottomless Mimosas!
Bottomless mimosas are a rarity these days, so when we heard that Holston House’s restaurant, TENN, revamped its brunch menu to include none other than bottomless mimosas, we knew we had to share. (It’s not a self-serve setup, but rather, free refills are included in the price — within reason!) Available seven days a week, you can indulge in a full brunch menu with Southern flair, along with the aforementioned mimosas and boozy coffee punch.
Still hungry? Keep scrolling for even more recent openings, and check out our local restaurant guide.
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UPDATES FROM JUNE 2023
We’re continuing our summer of exciting restaurant openings, whether you’re in the market for tasty breakfast sandwiches, burgers, sushi, or craft beers. Not to mention, there’s a brand new spot to snag that quintessential warm-weather treat — snoballs! Check out these 13 new Nashville restaurants and concepts to add to your must-try list.
Beginner’s Luck Nashville
Neighborhood: Midtown
More info: Facebook
Believe it or not, yet another breakfast sandwich-centric spot hit the scene this month. With online ordering and in-person kiosks at Midtown Foods, Beginner’s Luck is a pop-up specializing in tasty ways to jumpstart your morning. Not only are the breakfast sammies delicious, but each one comes with a scratch-off ticket so you can try your luck at winning a free side, drink, or sandwich. From The Rusty (maple sausage, soft-scrambled egg, jalapeño honey mustard aioli, and American cheese on a Japanese milk bun) to The Slop Machine (homemade hashbrown casserole, fried egg, and chipotle ketchup on a Japanese milk bun), there are plenty of intriguing options.
The Dollhouse at The Fairlane
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: fairlanehotel.com/dollhouse
The official start of summer means it’s time for The Fairlane’s newest penthouse pop-up bar. Reminiscent of the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles, the penthouse channels childhood nostalgia with all things pink, plastic, and Palm Springs. Now serving beer, wine, and hard seltzers over and above the on-theme craft cocktail list, you can grab something fun to sip and head out to the rooftop for great views, catchy tunes, and delightful bites. You can also rent a cabana here, and photo ops in front of the tropical wallpaper are a must!
Fancy Sandy’s
Neighborhood: Germantown
More info: germantowncafe.com
Breakfast just got even better. If you love Germantown Café, you’re in luck! The team behind the neighborhood bar and restaurant has opened a sandwich storefront where you can grab breakfast sandwiches to start your day. The pickup window is located at the cafe itself, and you can look forward to grab-and-go items like the Sausage, Egg, and Cheese (chicken apple sausage, scrambled eggs, and American cheese on a freshly baked biscuit), bagels, and the “Better than Seggs” (ham, egg, American cheese, red peppers, onion, avocado, and sriracha aioli).
Gannons Nashville
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: gannonsnashville.com
Downtown’s newest casual fine-dining restaurant, Gannons Nashville, is sitting pretty in the Marriott Courtyard hotel. The oyster bar and restaurant features a menu filled with classic American dishes, French- and Italian-inspired fare, and even a few New Orleans favorites. You can look forward to everything from turtle soup, lobster bisque, and tuna tartare to prime rib and filet mignon. Naturally, you can also partake in the beautiful fresh oyster offerings. Curated cocktails and live jazz round out the experience.
GoodTimes Full Service
Neighborhood: Wedgewood-Houston
More info: Instagram
GoodTimes may boast a cocktail-heavy menu but don’t dismiss the good eats either. From buffalo wings to the burger of the month, there are plenty of filling bites to accompany your beverage of choice. Not to mention, you can make your way through the lounge to the greenery-filled outdoor patio area to enjoy it all. Whether you’re in the mood for something exotic, like the Lychee Martini, or something unique, like the GoodTimes Gimlet (gin, yuzu, rosemary, and citrus), you can look forward to delicious drinks, tasty bites, and of course, a “GoodTime.”
Icy Boys
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: Instagram
Breakfast sandwiches and New Orleans-style snoballs? We’re in. The owners of Spicy Boys have opened another spot (directly adjacent), and you can’t miss it. The bright pink building may draw you in, but it’s the food that’ll make you stay. Open from 7 a.m. until sunset, you can grab a cup of coffee and morning sammies featuring eggs, cheese, andouille sausage, boudin, avocado, and more. Plus, the snoballs are the ideal summer treat, with flavors ranging from wedding cake and blue raspberry to praline or even dill pickle. And did we mention you can stop by Spicy Boys to add a $5 well shot? Who’s up for a Cola snoball with a rum floater?
Marble Fox Brewing Company
Neighborhood: The Gulch
More info: marblefoxbrewing.com
A family-owned brewery, Marble Fox Brewing Company offers a selection of beers on tap, each crafted using traditional brewing methods. Head to the new taproom to gain some knowledge as you sip on samples — from unique small-batch options to classic go-tos. While Marble Fox may not serve any food, its surrounding neighborhood in The Gulch certainly has plenty to choose from!
Ophelia’s Pizza + Bar
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: opheliasnashville.com
Another new Downtown addition, Ophelia’s Pizza + Bar delivers a cozy, old-school Italian spot with a hearty menu. From the art-filled interior to the umbrella-shaded patio perfect for al fresco dining and people-watching, there’s plenty of space to relax as you feast on classic antipasti, Neapolitan-style pizzas, and traditional entrées. Standouts include the “Nashville Hot” pizza with ghost pepper salt and hot honey, and the Lasagna Bolognese, rumored to be quite memorable. You can also sip on Italian-inspired cocktails, including the Orange Sherbet (vodka, Aperol, Prosecco, orange honey, and orange juice) or the Limon-Fresca (tequila, limoncello, elderflower, Prosecco). Additionally, Ophelia’s is launching The After Dinner Party to seamlessly segue your dining into nightlife. From 10:30 p.m. until 3 a.m., you can enjoy VIP cocktail service and late-night to-go pizzas.
Raising Cane’s
Neighborhood: West Nashville
More info: raisingcanes.com
Perhaps one of the most talked-about openings this year, Raising Cane’s has been the topic of conversation since well before its grand opening. Founded in Baton Rouge, LA, this is some fast food we would be remiss not to include in our notable new restaurant lineup. Our SB team has been discussing it for months. In fact, our Account Executive Melissa Thompson told us that even her 102-year-old father-in-law was waiting with bated breath for the opening! The menu is highly chicken finger-focused, with sides such as crinkle-cut fries, coleslaw, and Texas toast. But don’t let the abbreviated menu fool you — the food is so crave-able that you should anticipate long lines and lunch crowds.
SS Gai
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: Instagram
Looking for delicious, street-style Thai chicken? Look no further than one of The Wash’s newest residents, SS Gai. Chris and Emma Biard bring the flavors of Southeast Asia to Music City, taking recipes and inspiration from their travels and creating a focused menu that revolves around traditional Gai Yang (grilled chicken) and Gai Tod (fried chicken). Paired with sticky rice, shallots, tamarind-chili fish sauce, and chili vinegar, the authentic taste and time-honored preparation techniques will have you dreaming of a trip to faraway lands. The menu also features dishes like Charred Eggplant Salad and Mango Sticky Rice. Open every day except Tuesday, you can grab your food and take it to the patio or order takeout here. And don’t forget to stop by Bay 6 to grab a cocktail (or a beer bucket!) accompaniment, too.
Sumo Sushi Thai & Bar
Neighborhood: Melrose
More info: sumosushithaiandbar.com
Handcrafted cocktails, sushi, and Thai cuisine are the name of the game at the new Sumo Sushi Thai & Bar in Melrose. From nigiri and classic rolls to more unique options like the Eskimo Roll (shrimp tempura, cucumber, crunchy, white tuna, masago, and spicy mayo), Sumo Sushi has all your favorites and then some. Add to that the extensive roster of Thai dishes, from Massaman curry to Yakisoba, and you have a wide variety of aromatic, flavorful selections to choose from. Additionally, you can accompany your meal with Thai tea and end with a traditional dessert such as baked taro custard or sticky rice.
Sweeza Super Quesadilla
Neighborhood: East Nashville
More info: sweezasuperquesadilla.com
The Wash’s second new resident, Sweeza Super Quesadilla brings a dose of Mexican-American flair to the already stellar roster of eateries in the outdoor food hall. Fantastic for late-night dining, the spot is open until 11 p.m. or midnight most nights (it’s closed on Wednesdays) and serves up mission-style Quesadilla Suizas filled with cheese, meat, salsa, crema, and avocado wrapped in a giant flour tortilla, then seared on the griddle. The menu also features a Crunchy Tostada, a tasty salad with creamy jalapeño dressing, house-made salsas, and Agua Fresca. Of course, snagging a patio seat is a great option, but you can also order takeout here.
Wedge Pizza & Pub
Neighborhood: Wedgewood-Houston
More info: bethewedge.com
With its cozy velvet couches, colorful murals, arcade games, darts, billiard table, live music space, and covered patio, Wedgewood-Houston’s newest pizza joint has a little something for everyone. You’ll find 16 (primarily local) brews on tap, along with a menu that highlights pizza (we can’t wait to try the hot chicken pizza complete with pickles!), meatballs in marinara, and “Wedgee Bites” — both sweet and savory. Plus, the eatery is locally owned and operated!
Still hungry? Keep scrolling for even more recent openings, and check out our local restaurant guide.
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