The best restaurants in Nashville right now

What is it? A casual lunch spot serving Japanese comfort food. 

Why we love it: A 2024 James Beard Best New Restaurant awardee, Kisser is a casual joint in East Nashville’s Highland Yards shopping center. Japanese comfort food is the source of inspiration, so you’ll likely find chicken katsu sandwiches, curry dishes and fun spins on udon noodles (ahem, creamy bacon udon). Make a point to try the yellowtail collar—it’s marinated in ponzu, lemon and daikon—and is ideal for splitting amongst two. Try the chirashi bowl for a decadent start to the meal. 

Time Out tip: Kisser doesn’t accept reservations, so make a point to stop in early to put your name in the queue. There are plenty of vintage shops nearby that you can peruse until your table is ready.

Address: 747 Douglas Ave, Nashville, TN 37207

Hours: Mon, Thurs, Fri 11am-2:30pm; Sat-Sun 10am-3pm

Expect to pay: $25-$50 per person.

What is it? A seasonal, seafood-forward restaurant in Nashville’s 12South neighborhood. 

Why we love it: In a neighborhood overrun by chain restaurants and retailers, Locust stands out with its tightly curated menu and vibey atmosphere. Helmed by co-founder and head chef, Trevor Moran, Locust is a darling of the food scene in Nashville. Dishes like tuna crisps, razor clams and crab rice are just as mouthwatering as they are beautifully plated. But as you hunker down with “too much caviar” or a variety of rice dishes, you’ll be hard pressed to ignore the atmosphere, which at times can feel as if you’ve been granted entry to a rambunctious club, commanded by your cool older brother. With an open kitchen stationed in the center of the floor, diners will delight in watching the food preparations, as friendly wait staff tends to your table like a long-lost friend.

Time Out tip: Reservations release at the beginning of the month and are required for lunch and dinner. They book quickly, so be sure to check their Instagram for updates. Other things to note: Sundays are for walk-ins only, and it’s recommended to keep your party under four people. 

Address: 2305 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204

Hours: Fri-Sat 12-3pm, 5-9pm; Sun 12-3pm, 6-9pm

Expect to pay: $50-$100 per person.

What is it? A modern Middle Eastern' restaurant with a great happy hour, a vegetable-centric menu and ice cream sandwiches for grown-ups. 

Why we love it: Creative interpretations of a cross-section of Middle Eastern traditions and spices ensure your brain and palate don’t get bored. The pistachio-whipped feta is a real table pleaser, so it’s not a bad place to start. For something more filling, you can’t go wrong with the baba ganoush with labneh and aleppo roasted tomato or the lamb kefta raas.

Time Out tip: Parking can be hard to come by, so make sure to give ample time to pin down a spot.

Address: 935 W Eastland Ave, Nashville, TN 37206

Hours: Mon-Sat 5-10pm

Expect to pay: $30-$60 per person.

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What is it? A neighborhood restaurant and bar whipping up creative dishes in a former warehouse.

Why we love it: Located in Houston Station, Bastion is a 24-seat, reservation-only restaurant serving up creative dishes in a former warehouse. No week’s menu is the same, as chefs whip up a multi-course meal based on inspiration and ingredient availability. Some past dishes have included kohlrabi truffle and raw beef, squid ink and sesame. If you don’t feel like dining in, the casual cocktail bar on the other side of the restaurant is the perfect environment to raise a specialty cocktail to mark a special occasion.  

Time Out tip: With just 24 seats and a nationwide reputation, Bastion continues to be one of the most in-demand restaurants in Music City. No walk-ins, so be sure to set your  online-only reservation, which requires a deposit.

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

Hours: Sun-Thurs 5pm-12am; Fri-Sat 5pm-1am

Expect to pay: $65-$100 per person. 

What is it? A downtown hangout joint, featuring a coffee shop and bar, bowling alley, two dipping pools, a co-working area and restaurant.

Why we love it: No matter if you’re heading to Pinewood in the morning, afternoon or night, you’ll get to taste comfort dishes that represent the best of Southern cooking. Shrimp and grits, spicy honey chicken, and biscuits and gravy are just a few classics you’ll find on the menu. After filling up on hearty dishes, head to the bar for draft beers and handcrafted cocktails like Objects In The Mirror, a concoction of tequila, guava, ancho chile liquor, pineapple and mole bitters.  

Time Out tip: Don't skip the fried broccoli.

Address: 33 Peabody St, Nashville, TN 37210

Hours: Mon-Sun 9am-11pm

Expect to pay: $25-$50 per person.

What is it? A barbecue joint in The Gulch that gives Memphis a run for its money.

Why we love it: While you might come for the hot chicken, Carey Bringle’s BBQ will have you second-guessing whether it was chicken in the first place. Peg Leg’s serves dry-rub barbecued ribs, chicken and pulled pork in a variety of ways, including on nachos, plates or sandwiches. You can’t go wrong ordering a pulled pork sandwich (one of the best in the city) or a slab of their ribs (really, the whole thing—they’re that good). Don’t skip a side of the Kool Aid pickles or dessert, especially the peach ice cream.

Time Out tip: Order a spread the next time you’re hosting the crew to watch the Saturday game.

Address: 903 Gleaves St, Nashville, TN 37203

Hours: Mon-Tues 11am-9pm; Wed-Sat 11am-10pm

Expect to pay: $15-$30 per person.

What is it? An elevated barroom tucked away in Germantown, serving up fresh oysters and Southern staples.

Why we love it: Nashville native and chef Julia Sullivan trained at some of the country’s best restaurants—like Per Se in New York—before bringing her knowledge back home. Serving up seasonal favorites, Henrietta Red could easily be found in the West Village or Charleston. With its airy, comfortable atmosphere, this is an ideal choice for large gatherings or intimate celebrations. Offering elevated classics, the menu consists of vegetable-forward dishes and shareable plates, like beet toast, sweet potato gnocchi and cauliflower spaghetti. There’s also a robust raw bar for those looking for a little extra something. 

Time Out tip: Open between 5 and 6pm daily, Henrietta’s happy hour is the best time to strike deals on oysters and wine. Get there early to score a spot on their small patio.

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

Hours: Tues-Fri 5-10pm; Sat 10am-2pm, 5-10pm; Sun 10am-2pm, 5-9pm

Expect to pay: $25-$65 per person. 

What is it? Handmade pasta and pizza near Centennial Park. 

Why we love it: Developed by James Beard award-winning chef Gerard Craft, Pastaria is serving up handmade pasta, pies and other Italian favorites in a converted medical office park—that’s right, you heard us. Some of the freshest pasta around, the menu offers a variety of pasta options, from gluten free to classic. Start with the marinated olives and burrata (eight-year old balsamic!) to kick off the meal right. Other menu favorites are the Bucatini Rigate and, of course, the pizza, which is made to order. 

Time Out tip: Kids eat for free with the purchase of an adult entrée, pasta or pizza during Family Hour, 5-6pm from Monday to Thursday in the main dining room. Dine in only.

Address: 8 City Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209

Hours:  Mon-Sun 4-9pm

Expect to pay: $25-$50 per person.

What is it? A Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offering seasonal dishes made of local ingredients in East Nashville. 

Why we love it: It’s rare for a restaurant to be ideal for both a date and an outing with a large group of friends, but Butcher & Bee's versatile setting is in large part due to its open kitchen, buzzy interior and small patio. It’s a local favorite for brunch, as diners keep coming back for the B&B Breakfast Sandwich—an egg, slices of bacon, avocado and feta wedged in an English muffin—whipped feta (available for dinner, too) and avocado crispy rice that’s perfect for sharing. What makes Butcher & Bee a full send, though, are the seasonal cocktails and hot sauce platter. 

Time Out tip: The restaurant occasionally partners with other local restaurants for pop-ups. Check out their Instagram for the latest going-ons.

Address: 902 Main St, Nashville, TN 37206

Hours: Mon-Thurs 5-9:30pm; Fri 5-10pm; Sat 10am-2pm, 5-10pm; Sun 10am-2pm, 5-9:30pm

Expect to pay: ~$50 per person.

What is it? A cozy husband-and-wife-run dinner spot with an amazing wood-fired oven, an appreciation for local ingredients and an 80-year-old sourdough starter. 

Why we love it: With a menu brimming with delectable bites like wood-oven cauliflower, decadent ribeye and ember-roasted broccolini, you’ll probably end up booking your next reservation before the meal is over. At night, baked goods from the couple’s bakery, Slow Hand Coffee & Bakeshop, appear as desserts on the menu. Their ‘Separation Anxiety’ dessert, freshly baked chocolate chip cookies with milk jam, will have you convinced to finish every meal with a sweet treat. 

Time Out tip: Nashville dining can err on the casual side, but this spot is a step up. No need to prepare to walk the catwalk, but a little extra preening won’t hurt.

Address: 1010 Gallatin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206

Hours: Wed-Thurs 5-9pm; Fri-Sat 5-10pm; Sun 5-9pm

Expect to pay: $50-$80 per person.

What is it? Classic Southern breakfast and lunch served from an unassuming house in the Salemtown neighborhood. 

Why we love it: While we’re here for modern takes and fine dining, sometimes you just need the taste of home. Literally housed inside a house, Big Al’s is exactly that, and with down-home delights and daily specials, there are plenty of reasons why locals love this joint. Al knows his way around a kitchen, so if it’s your first visit, you can’t go wrong with the plant-based burger, or the jerk chicken marinated in Al’s signature sauce (only available on Thursdays during lunch). The hospitality and food will make you feel welcome the minute you arrive.

Time Out tip: If you get the chance to chat with Al, take it. He’s eager to talk about sports, the neighborhood and, of course, his delicious food.

Address: 1828 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208

Hours: Tues-Fri 7am-2pm; Saturday 9am-1pm

Expect to pay: $10-$25 per person.

What is it: A local institution, and one of the few remaining meat-and-three eateries in Nashville.

Why we love it: Back in the day, meat-and-three cafeterias ruled Nashville. Though many have shuttered over the years, Swett’s has proven its staying power. Serving Nashville for over six decades, Swett’s has won the hearts (and stomachs) of diners with its beef tips, fried chicken, green beans and more. You can say that the team knows how to make Southern classics. The space itself isn’t fancy, but this is one of the places you’ll run into everyone in town, from locals to politicians and tourists. Let’s be real—the food speaks for itself. 

Time Out tip: The line can get long, so swing by before you’re famished.

Address: 2725 Clifton Ave, Nashville, TN 37209

Hours: Mon-Sun 11am-8pm

Expect to pay: $12-$25 per person.

What is it? A taco spot from Butcher & Bee’s Bryan Lee Weaver in East Nashville. 

Why we love it: Weaver has crafted a menu that pays homage to his Texas roots. Expect breakfast tacos, queso Frito pies, chicken-fried steak and burgers, which are nearly as famous as their Tex-Mex. As you take bites, soak in the bright and colorful interior of the place, featuring local art, custom tiles and diner furniture. Before heading your own way, don’t forget the sweet delights: Dr. Pepper-infused chocolate cake and banana pudding.

Time Out tip: Given Redheaded Stranger's no-reservation policy, the patio can get packed, so plan to arrive early. 

Address: 305 Arrington St, Nashville, TN 37207

Hours: Mon-Thurs 10am-9pm; Fri 10am-10pm; Sat 8am-10pm; Sun 8am-9pm

Expect to pay: $8-$20 per person.

What is it? An all-day cafe that offers a menu full of healthy, delicious dishes in a casual atmosphere ideal for posting up and answering emails, catching up with friends or indulging in a cheeky lunchtime cocktail.

Why we love it: When Julia Jaksic moved from New York to Nashville, she noticed the city didn’t have any all-day cafés, places you could wander into and order whatever you were craving. Café Roze (and its sister restaurant in Belle Meade, Roze Pony) fill the gap. You’re just as likely to be seated next to a country music star as you are a Belmont student or longtime local. And they all come for the same reason: Understated favorites that satisfy a craving for well-made, simple food. The rose bowl, made with quinoa and black lentils, is a neighborhood favorite, but you can’t go wrong with any of the elevated salads, egg dishes or sandwiches. There’s a full marble-topped bar for the cocktail of your choice, and the fries demand to be ordered for the table—even if it’s a table for one.

Time Out tip: While you probably won’t have too much of an issue being a walk-in for a weekday lunch, it’s advised to book a reservation for any weekend dining or dinner reservations.

Address: 1115 Porter Rd, Nashville, TN 37206

Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-10pm

Expect to pay: $20-$50 per person.

What is it? This small, bright restaurant in East Nashville serves a menu of Iberian (Spanish and Portuguese) dishes that change every week. 

What is it: A comfortable restaurant that offers rotating small plates like avocado hummus and ricotta gnocchi. Main dishes like the creamy curry eggplant and paprika chicken offer a savory touch before sweet desserts like chocolate mousse and sumac strawberry almond cake. Meanwhile, the handcrafted cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages are the perfect complement to the meal. 

Time Out tip: The menu is animal-heavy, so it might be difficult to identify a dish that will meet vegan dietary needs.

Address: 1035 W Eastland Ave, Nashville, TN 37206

Hours: Thurs-Sat 5-10pm

Expect to pay: $35-$60 per person.

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What is it? A funky all-day eatery near the airport.

Why we love it: It’s not everyday that your go-to sandwich joint turns into a full-blown club at night, but then again, this is Music City. PHAT,  which stands for Pretty Healthy and Tasty, offers sandwiches, salads and music at night. The huge menu means you’ll find something that feeds even the most fickle of appetites. The hummus envy samplers change daily, while the wraps, tacos and salads run the gamut from extra meat to vegetarian friendly.

Time Out tip: Come for the reuben, stay for the salsa lessons. 

Address: 2730 Lebanon Pike B, Nashville, TN 37214

Hours: Mon 3pm-2am; Tues-Sun 10:30am-2am (kitchen closes at 1am)

Expect to pay: $12-$30 per person.

What is it: A beloved no-frills taco spot in East Nashville.

Why we love it: Tucked away in Greenwood, Mas Tacos started as a food truck in 2008, and has been credited for helping lead Nashville’s food truck scene. Two years later in 2010, the restaurant opened its brick-and-mortar location. While there are plenty of solid options in the neighborhood, Mas Tacos keeps folks coming back for its avocado tacos, chicken tortilla soup and mezcal margarita machine. Other menu standouts include the cast iron chicken tacos, quinoa and sweet potato tacos and elote. Enjoy any of these dishes alongside attentive waiter service and a lively atmosphere with four-legged friends. 

Time Out tip: Mas Tacos Por Favor only accepts cash, so bring some or use the on-site ATM. Tacos can sell out, too, so when in doubt, head over before missing out.

Address: 732 Mcferrin Ave, Nashville, TN 37206

Hours: Tues-Fri 11am-9pm; Sat 10am-9pm; Sun 10am-4pm

Expect to pay: $10-$20 per person.