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13 New Nashville Restaurants to Try This Month

Style Blueprint
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October 21, 2024
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It’s official, folks. Fall is in full swing. And what better way to “embrace the cozy” than by settling into a seat at one of Nashville’s newest eateries? From pumpkin spice lattes to lobster bisque, here are the latest additions to the local food scene. Dig in!

Alba’s Empanadas

Neighborhood: The Gulch
More Info: albasempanadas.com

Bringing a taste of home to Nashville by way of Los Angeles, Alba’s Empanadas had numerous pop-ups on the West Coast before it made its way to a brick-and-mortar in The Gulch. Now, you can get four signature empanadas via its walk-up window, including the Jah Mama chicken (a secret family recipe), Wagyu steak, and Jah Mama mushroom and cheese. There are also plenty of Caribbean-inspired sides and a sweet potato empanada for dessert.

The Ariston

Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: thearistonbar.com

Get ready for a cocktail-and-cigar combo at Downtown’s new lounge, The Ariston. With a grand opening on October 5, this new spot offers a loungy atmosphere where you can enjoy curated cocktails and premium cigars. Open daily from noon to midnight, it’s a great spot to indulge in small plates and conversation. The Ariston also offers the Byron Lounge for private events as well as culinary experiences, such as caviar paired with champagne.

A cocktail served in a coupe glass garnished with a lemon twist and topped with a cigar. An open box of cigars is displayed nearby.
The Ariston offers a cozy spot for cigars and cocktails. Image: Facebook

Babu

Neighborhood: Chestnut Hill
More Info: cafebabu.com

From espresso to Indian Masala Chai and fresh pastries, the menu at Babu offers a dose of caffeine, light breakfast bites, and beyond. If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, try the prosciutto and fig sandwich, which also features gruyère cheese and caramelized onions atop toasted potato-rosemary bread. The cafe is open from Tuesday through Friday until 2 p.m., but those hours are slated to extend once Babu has the go-ahead to serve wine and cocktails. Stay tuned!

A person holding a coffee cup adorned with a minimalist illustration of a woman enjoys the crisp ambiance of October. The background reveals a textured wall.
Grab a coffee and pastry at the new Babu. Image: Facebook

Fast Times Coffee

Neighborhood: 12 South
More Info: fasttimescoffee.com

Located inside Buck Mason, this coffee shop is a bit of a hidden gem. Surrounded by gorgeous coffee table books sits a small counter offering up your daily dose of caffeine — the perfect opportunity to refuel and simultaneously enjoy a bit of retail therapy.

Halls Catch

Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: hallmanagementgroup.com

Located adjacent to Halls Chophouse, Halls Catch is a seafood-centric restaurant from the same South Carolina-based restaurant group. The menu offers everything from sushi selections and oyster shooters to Beluga caviar, charred octopus, and Maine lobster. Of course, if you so desire, you can also snag a meatier entrée with dishes like Colorado lamb chops, Japanese Wagyu, and even a Tomahawk prime rib steak for two.

On a light-colored table, a white plate presents thinly sliced fish carpaccio from one of October's exciting new restaurants, elegantly drizzled with oil and adorned with microgreens and spices.
Adorned with microgreens and spices, this crudo from Halls Catch is a catch, indeed. Image: Jason Bihler Photography/Hall Management Group

Hey Hey

Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: heyheyeats.com

The Team behind AVO is at it again, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. For years, we’ve been following every culinary move Annie Choo has made, and this one is no exception. As with AVO, the menu at Hey Hey relies on plant-based Asian flavors, with standout dishes such as crispy rice cakes, kung pao Brussels sprouts, and Sichuan citrus butter vermicelli.

A bowl of noodles topped with greens, a lemon slice, and a sprinkling of seasoning graces the wooden table—perfect for savoring during your October new restaurants adventure.
Feast on delicately executed plant-based fare at Hey Hey. Image: Annie Choo

Kokomo Trading Company

Neighborhood: Franklin
More Info: kokomotradingco.com

This locally owned spot recently opened in Westhaven Town Center, and it’s quickly becoming a local favorite. The menu offers an array of island-inspired items, from Cozumel queso and Jamaican-style Caribbean patties to a Cuban sandwich and a Creole bowl. To really channel those island vibes, you can also enjoy live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. And don’t forget to order a colada or other beachy frozen beverage!

A bowl of lobster bisque, served with a spoon and garnished with herbs, sits enticingly beside two slices of garlic bread on a white plate.
All of the seafood at Kokomo Trading Company is wild-caught. Doesn’t this lobster bisque look delicious? Image: Facebook

Lowbar

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info: Instagram

Woodland Street has a new hang, and it’s an underground bar beneath the Basement East. Naturally, you can expect drinks — but you can also look forward to darts, billiards, karaoke, and a moody, low-lit atmosphere perfect for relaxing with a beverage in your hand. Food trucks and a patio are also a draw!

Maiz de la Vida

Neighborhood: Paseo South Gulch
More info: maizdelavida.com

Neighborhood taco truck extraordinaire Maiz de la Vida is moving its locale from East Nashville to the South Gulch. James Beard-nominated Chef Julio Hernandez is turning his popular mobile joint into a brick-and-mortar on 8th Avenue, and you can anticipate authentic Mexican dishes like his famous corn tortillas and quesabirria tacos. There’s a lot of buzz, so you might also hit some lines to get in!

A colorful table setting features rice and green beans, a bowl of beans, a dish with meat in red sauce, tortillas in a basket, and a bottle of sauce.
Though the brick-and-mortar offers a different menu than the food truck, you can expect the same tasty, authentic Mexican flavors at the new Maiz de la Vida. Image: Facebook

Noble’s Central

Neighborhood: Metro Center
More Info: central.noblesbeerhall.com

Noble’s is spreading its wings to Metro Center, and this location comes with waterfront views! Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the eatery offers the same menu as its sister restaurant in East Nashville, complete with favorites like cheese curds, burnt-end sliders, fried green tomatoes, burgers, and so much more. Plus, the patio is dog-friendly!

Radish

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info: radishkitchen.com

Chef Amanda Frederickson just opened her third location of Radish — this time, in Hunters Station! As with its sister restaurants in Sylvan Supply and Franklin, you can enjoy your favorite healthy eats — from the Rad Cobb salad to the harvest grain bowl and wraps galore.

Two bowls of salads with assorted ingredients, two cans of sparkling water, and a small container of green dressing sit on a white tiled surface.
Looking for a light lunch? Check out the salads and grain bowls at Radish. Image: Facebook

Stay Golden

Neighborhood: The Nations
More Info: stay-golden.com

Flanked by favorites like Tinwings and Bare Bones Butcher, Stay Golden is settling into its newest digs in The Nations. We may be saying goodbye to its former spot on Sidco, but the new shaded patio and centralized location make it all worth it. You can still look forward to all of your menu favorites (though the current menu is limited while everyone eases in), and according to recent social media posts, we can look forward to “boozy beverages coming soon!”

A white plate of breakfast potatoes topped with a sunny-side-up egg and garnished with fresh herbs sits invitingly in the autumn light. In the background, a steaming cup of coffee and a stack of biscuits hint at cozy October mornings.
Breakfast, lunch, and coffee are on tap at Stay Golden in The Nations. Image: Facebook

The Tornado Room

Neighborhood: Leipers Fork
More Info: Instagram

As if Leipers Fork weren’t enough of a draw on its own, there’s a fun new speakeasy that just opened beneath Country Boy Restaurant. The Tornado Room doesn’t have a set menu, but it definitely offers an experience — complete with craft cocktails, bar bites, live music, and more. As one recent artist who performed there says, it might just be “the classiest speakeasy in Franklin!”

Still hungry? Keep scrolling for even more recent openings, and sign up for our daily emails to stay in the know.

UPDATES FROM SEPTEMBER 2024

It’s officially fall, leading up to the busiest time of year for most of us — but also, plenty of opportunities to gather with loved ones over delicious food and drink. Fortunately, the local restaurant scene has plenty of new offerings to explore. From colorful cookies to elevated Japanese fare, here are 12 new spots to have on your radar.

888

Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: 888nashville.com

We’ve noticed a recent trend in restaurant listening lounges, and 888 certainly fits the bill. This intimate venue delivers exquisite Omakase-style Japanese fare — including incredible sushi — while you enjoy a curated music experience courtesy of vinyl records and killer acoustics.

From nigiri to Miso Black Cod and a Wagyu filet, you’re in for a treat. In fact, SB Account Executive Brandon Smith, who recently dined there, said, “The fried rice was hands down the best fried rice dish I’ve ever had.” There’s even a stellar sake selection!

A ceramic plate with five pieces of sliced raw fish, garnished with herbs and sauce, is being served with additional sauce. Chopsticks rest beside the plate as a decorative figurine sits in the background.
Feast on nigiri, maki, and so much more at Downtown’s newest Japanese listening lounge, 888. Image: 888

Café Cheeserie at The Frist Museum

Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: grilledcheeserie.com

As if The Frist Art Museum couldn’t get any cooler … now, it’s partnering with food truck favorite The Grilled Cheeserie! Café Cheeserie features a cheese-centric, bistro-inspired menu that offers weekly and seasonal specials. Even better, it’s open for business as long as The Frist’s doors are open.

You can look forward to pastries, scratch-made sandwiches (with loads of cheesy goodness!), soups, salads, charcuterie boards, a burger, grab-and-go snacks, and more.

A hand dips a grilled cheese sandwich into a cup of tomato soup. The background is yellow, and another sandwich is partially visible on the left.
Among other tasty menu items, you can score a classic grilled cheese and tomato soup at the new Café Cheeserie. Image: Facebook

E+Rose: Germantown

Neighborhood: Germantown
More Info: eandrose.com

Germantown is the locale for E+Rose’s newest eatery. Like its other branches, the cafe is serving up all kinds of healthy eats, from cold-pressed juices and smoothies to plant-based salads and açai bowls. If you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up, the new location also offers a full coffee and tea menu.

A variety of colorful and healthy dishes, including salads, vegetable wraps, smoothie bowls, and beverages, arranged on a white table.
Up your health game at Germantown’s new E+Rose location. Image: Facebook

East Creamery

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info: Instagram

The Shoppes at Fatherland, home to favorites like Abode Mercantile and Maru Sushi & Grill, is now scooping up tasty sweet treats in the form of ice cream and other desserts. East Creamery recently opened, offering ice cream floats, cobblers, giant chocolate chip cookies, and other fun goodies.

You can check their Instagram page for updates on the current offerings … the Chocolate Molten Cake with a scoop of Bourbon Crunch sounds insanely good!

A bowl of dessert with a scoop of ice cream on top, placed on a black table against a background with a pattern of colorful sprinkles.
We all scream for ice cream … especially when it’s on peach cobbler! Image: Instagram

The Henry

Neighborhood: 12South
More Info: thehenryrestaurant.com

This new seafood-focused 12 South spot serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a perfectly complementary cocktail menu. Settle into a comfy leather banquette and feast on dishes such as sea scallops with parsnip crème fraîche, filet mignon, braised short rib, and sushi selections. If you’re in a cocktail mood, try the smoked pineapple margarita or Thai Grapefruit Smash, which features vodka, Thai basil, and grapefruit.

A food spread on a marble table includes seafood dishes, oysters, crab legs, shrimp, sliced fish, a bowl of chips, a yellow drink with garnish, and a glass of white wine. The menu from "The Henry," one of September's new restaurants, is visible.
You can score a beautiful selection of seafood at 12 South’s new restaurant, The Henry. Image: The Henry

Jar 10

Neighborhood: Hillsboro Village
More Info: jar10nashville.com

Hillsboro Village keeps growing, and that’s in large part thanks to the Make a Play hospitality group. The team behind Supper Club, Sunset on Belcourt, and Bungalow10 has opened yet another concept — only this time, it’s a rebrand of their former lounge, Jar. Now called Jar 10, the speakeasy-style spot has all-new everything, from the menu to the vibe. You can snack on small plates like empanadas, red snapper, and even late-night bites like pizza or wings.

A small dining area with a round black table, a purple floral arrangement, pink cushioned bench seating, a modern chandelier, and vibrant tropical foliage wallpaper.
Get cozy in Jar 10’s lounge, where you can sip, snack, and even partake in the hookah. Image: Deshun Smith Imaging

Pink Door Cookies

Neighborhood: Sylvan Heights
More Info: pinkdoorcookies.com

You can’t miss the new Pink Door Cookies in Sylvan Heights, and we aren’t kidding — the building is pink, there’s a unicorn mural, and the patio tables are a rainbow of fruit flavors. It’s a vibrant spot that will make you smile and satisfy your sweet tooth! Pastry Chef Mathew Rice delivers happiness in the form of cookies, with flavors like blueberry pancake, oatmeal butterscotch, s’mores, and peach chamomile.

A pink box with six decorated cookies features various colorful designs and sprinkles. The white interior showcases pink doodles and branding, evoking the charm of new restaurants in September. The box is set against a black, patterned surface.
Your cookies just got fancy! Image: Facebook

Tash Tea Cafe

Neighborhood: Antioch
More Info: Instagram

This Kurdish and Turkish eatery specializes in breakfast and brunch. Open every day, the family-owned and -operated restaurant offers authentic dishes and the most fabulous brunch spread you’ve ever seen, with everything from olives and fruit to cheese, eggs, yogurt, and so much more. Don’t leave without ordering baklava and a Kurdish coffee, which is made over sand. It’s an experience that doesn’t disappoint!

A wooden table set with various foods including watermelon slices, cheeses, sliced meats, bread, pastries, different sauces, and tea served in glasses and two copper teapots.
Look at this gorgeous breakfast spread at Tash Tea Cafe! Image: Mayme Castile via Facebook

Top Note

Neighborhood: Capitol District
More Info: topnotenashville.com

We miss the days of sitting on Zeppelin’s patio, watching a sunset, and sipping a tasty beverage. Fortunately, we can still do that … sort of. Taking over the former Zeppelin space, Top Note is Capitol District’s newest rooftop bar. Dine on dishes like chicken lemongrass potstickers, prime rib Philly with horseradish cream, and warm crab dip. The cocktail menu is equally festive, with specialty drinks like the Blueberry Bliss. Did we mention they serve a s’mores charcuterie board to enjoy over the cozy fire pits?

A plate with a breaded chicken cutlet on toast, topped with pickles and coleslaw, accompanied by a metal cup filled with crinkle-cut fries.
Top Note offers dining with a skyline view. Image: Soundtrack My Drink

Torchy’s Tacos

Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: torchystacos.com

With locations in nearly every state across the U.S., Austin-based Torchy’s Tacos is spreading like wildfire. And now, you can find one here in Nashville, right at the Broadway-Division split! This eatery started in a food truck, and it brings tacos to a whole new level of pizazz. You can look forward to tacos filled with ingredients like beef barbacoa, pork carnitas, Jamaican jerk chicken, grilled corn relish, and tomatillo sauce. Oh, and rumor has it that the green chile queso is award-winning!

A hand holding a taco filled with fried onions, diced vegetables, and fresh herbs, perfect for a September evening at one of the new restaurants in town.
We never say “no” to a tasty taco! Image: Facebook

Vega Shawarma

Neighborhood: Madison
More Info: Instagram

Lyra fans, this one is for you! The East Nashville favorite just opened the doors on a new restaurant in Madison. You can look forward to fast-casual Middle Eastern street food, including shawarma (naturally) with various types of protein, hummus, falafel, za’atar fries, tabbouleh salad, and other tasty bites.

A modern dining area with green chairs, wooden tables, and a colorful geometric mural on the wall. Hanging lights elevate the space, while large windows flood it with natural light, creating an inviting ambiance.
Fast-casual Vega Shawarma just opened in Madison! Image: Facebook

Villa Castrioti

Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: villacastrioti.com

Hailing from Memphis, Villa Castrioti has made its way to Nashville. Located downtown in the former Demos’ space, the authentic Italian ristorante is serving up everything from classic dishes like lobster cacciatore, gnocchi, and veal scallopini to hand-tossed brick oven New York pizza.

A plate of sliced meat with vegetables is on a table set with wine glasses, a menu, and water glasses. Two seated persons are partially visible in the background.
Nashville is getting a little taste of Memphis’s Italian cuisine. Image: Facebook

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 AUGUST 2024

We’re inching toward fall, with its patio-perfect weather and colorful foliage. To see us through these final few temperature spikes, we’re celebrating the latest additions to the local culinary scene — from Peking-style roast duck and international tapas to an endlessly charming new wine bar. Check out these 11 new spots!

Butterlamp Bread & Beverage

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info: butterlampnashville.com

A bread- and wine-centric restaurant? You’re speaking our language. This brand-new Eastwood Village wine bar-meets-artisan bread house on Chapel Avenue features everything from warm cracked pepper sourdough with cultured butter to roasted oysters and pork fat fries, and you can look forward to a rotating menu. The eatery, owned by husband-and-wife duo Katie Rose Tyson and Benjamin Tyson, offers both indoor and outdoor dining options.

Two people enjoying various foods on a table, including cookies, cheese, bread, salami, wine, and other dishes.
Our mouths are watering, thanks to Butterlamp Bread & Beverage. Image: Hannah Lyvers

Choy

Neighborhood: The Gulch
More Info: choynashville.com

Unfortunately, Tánsuŏ is out; fortunately, Choy is in! The Gulch is now home to an Art Deco Chinese-American restaurant specializing in authentic favorites like Peking-style roast duck along with a seasonally-inspired menu that currently includes beef chow fun, squid ink wontons, shrimp fried rice, and so much more. Don’t forget to accompany your meal with a cocktail, most of which were inspired by early 20th-century hotel bars from around the world.

A plate of gourmet seafood pasta garnished with scallions is served on a green dish; a cocktail in a tall glass is in the background on a red table.
Sip a carefully crafted cocktail alongside the stunning menu of share-able Chinese dishes at Choy! Image: Emily Dorio

Daddy’s Dogs: Madison

Neighborhood: Madison
More Info: daddysdogs.com

If you’re a Daddy’s Dogs fan, Madison is your newest go-to! With more than a dozen hot dog options, you can satisfy whatever flavor profile you’re craving — from the Lone Wolf (a simple all-American dog with ketchup, mustard, and relish) to the Carolina (a dog topped with coleslaw, bacon, the secret house sauce, and BBQ sauce). Of course, you can also snag some stellar sides, including loaded tots, chili, mac & cheese, and slaw.

A grilled hot dog topped with diced onions and drizzled with ketchup, served in a paper tray.
National Hot Dog Day has already passed (July 17), but that’s not stopping us from hitting up the new Daddy’s Dogs in Madison. Image: Facebook

Ernie’s Boondock

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info: Ernie’s is being elusive. For now, visit Up-Down’s Instagram!

Five Points has scored a new resident. Say “hello” ( and “cheers!”) to Iowa-born watering hole Ernie’s Boondock. Located in the basement of Up-Down, the dive bar-style joint features beverages, billiards, and boondock shenanigans. Make a night of it by hitting up the Up-Down arcade and Skee-Ball, then head downstairs for beer and a friendly game of pool.

Fancypants

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info: wearefancypants.com

Offering a unique “choose your own adventure” dining experience, Fancypants recently opened its visually stunning space on East Nashville’s Dickerson Pike. Emphasizing fun, creativity, and a lively atmosphere, the veggie-focused eatery features a menu that allows you to mix and match. Standout dishes include potato chip-crusted chicken fried cauliflower with coconut gravy, miso butter Mafaldine (a pasta featuring zucchini ribbons and peanut chili garlic crunch), and grilled lion’s mane mushroom with potato purée. There’s even an interactive sundae bar!

Tattooed hands sprinkling grated cheese over a white plate of pasta on a wooden counter.
Head to Dickerson Pike’s Fancypants for vegetable-forward dishes that you can mix and match. Image: Andrew Cebulka

Koré

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info: Instagram

Samurai Sushi may have closed on Chapel Avenue, but you can still dine on a few Asian-inspired dishes at the building’s newest resident, Koré. The international tapas restaurant is serving up shareable plates from nearly every region across the globe — from sticky ribs, dumplings, and kimchi bacon risotto to lamb skewers and a crème brûlée Basque cheesecake.

A round dish of creamy dip garnished with fresh herbs sits enticingly on a wooden table.
Koré boasts an extensive menu of internationally inspired tapas. Image: Tori Kim

Mr. J’s Original

Neighborhood: Hermitage
More Info: mrjsoriginal.com

This West Coast-style burger joint has an eclectic menu featuring a bacon dog, burgers, a pastrami sandwich, chili cheese fries, onion rings, fried zucchini, and chicken tenders. There’s something for everyone! Open every day from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., the family-friendly neighborhood stand even serves breakfast, with options like pancakes, pastrami hash and eggs, and breakfast burritos.

A sandwich with meat, cheese, and vegetables is cut in half on a tray with fries. A red ketchup bottle is in the foreground.
Pastrami sandwich, anyone? Image: Missi Calvert

Sidecar Bar

Neighborhood: Germantown
More Info: sidecarbarnash.com

Offering late-night fun, live music, and a great happy hour, Sidecar Bar is Germantown’s newest hot spot. Jumbo chicken tenders and fries make up most of the snack menu — the poutine fries caught our eye, generously topped with mozzarella cheese curds, brown gravy, chives, and crushed red pepper flakes. Yum! Other snacks, such as fried pickles and buffalo cauliflower, are an excellent balance for cocktails. Sip on wine, beer, or other spiked beverages; there’s even a whole list of shots!

A cocktail with a chili rim sits on a bar counter, illuminated by neon red lights in the background.
Cocktails abound at the new Sidecar Bar. Image: Sidecar Bar

TailGate Brewery: Murfreesboro

Neighborhood: Murfreesboro
More Info: tailgatebeer.com

Murfreesboro welcomes TailGate’s sixth taproom, which boasts all your favorite amenities — housemade pizzas, craft beer, a Thursday-night Friends & Family Happy Hour, and even a covered patio. Grab a small-batch brew, order a Mexican street corn or hot honey pizza with a side of chicken wings, and enjoy some casual conversation with friends. Sounds like the perfect evening!

Pizza and a beer from Tailgate Brewery on an outdoor table.
Grab a brew and some Detroit-style pizza at Murfreesboro’s new TailGate Brewery location. Image: Facebook

NATIONAL CHAINS

We typically focus on local businesses, but we’d be remiss not to mention these two franchise openings that caught our eye this month — one regional and one global!

Eggspectation

Neighborhood: Antioch
More Info: eggspectation.com

Making its way through the South with locations in other states like Virginia, North Carolina, and Texas, Eggspectation is spreading the love. The eatery features an all-day breakfast menu with dishes like huevos rancheros, a breakfast poutine, and Cajun shrimp & grits. You can find this new location at the Tanger Outlets adjacent to Prince’s Hot Chicken.

A plate of French toast topped with sliced bananas, strawberries, walnuts, and powdered sugar, with a syrup bottle pouring maple syrup and a glass of coffee in the background.
Eggspectation serves brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktails, but it’s the all-day breakfast we’re drooling over. Image: Facebook

Paris Baguette

Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: parisbaguette.com

The Paris Olympics may have come to a close, but we’re still embracing the excitement. Luckily, Paris Baguette opened its doors downtown — an opportunity to snag croissants, French pastries, coffee, and more. Believe it or not, the restaurant originated in South Korea, expanding to encompass franchises across the U.S. — including its newest locale around the corner from the Frist Museum!

A variety of pastries are displayed on a tray, including croissants topped with strawberries and cream, and pastries adorned with blackberries and kiwi slices.
Paris Baguette‘s first Nashville location specializes in pastries and cakes. Bring your sweet tooth! Image: Facebook

Still hungry? Keep scrolling for even more recent openings, and sign up for our daily emails to stay in the know.

UPDATES FROM JULY 2024

In between beach trips and lake days, carve out some time to explore all the new dining options that have made their way onto the scene. From soul food classics and Texas-style barbecue to chicken and waffles, there’s plenty of flavor waiting for you. Check out these 10 new Nashville restaurants!

Backstage Midtown

Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: thechefandinashville.com

If you love The Chef & I, you’re in for a treat. The team behind the exquisite dining spot recently launched a new “gourmet fast casual” eatery — Backstage Midtown. A lunch concept, the restaurant features a menu of approachable dishes, such as the Asian-Style Salmon Wrap, Green Chile Chicken Melt, and Hot Fish Sandwich.

A sandwich made with focaccia bread, lettuce, tomato, and a filling, served with potato chips and a pickle slice on a white plate.
Fans of The Chef & I will swoon over the approachable lunch menu at Backstage Midtown. Image: Backstage Midtown

Bayou Keys Dueling Piano Bar

Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: bayoukeys.com

Louisiana is descending upon Lower Broadway with a fun new, interactive dueling piano lounge that’s open from Thursday through Saturday, beginning at 6 p.m. Make requests and sidle up for live music, signature cocktails, and a menu of shareable bites that include flatbreads, charcuterie boards, and hummus trays.

A wine bottle, two empty wine glasses, and a Bayou Keys menu are on a table with a candle in a cozy new restaurant setting. A drum set with "Bayou Keys" in the background hints at live music to come.
Indulge in some festive Louisiana-style fun at Bayou Keys. Image: TC Restaurant Group

Birria Babe

Neighborhood: Berry Hill
More Info: Instagram

Nashville’s self-proclaimed “Birria Queen” has opened a birria-centric brick-and-mortar inside Cyanide Cider, so you can sip as you dine. Open Thursday through Sunday, noon to 7 p.m., the quaint eatery offers a menu that includes black bean nachos, a birria ramen bowl, and, of course, birria tacos. Oh, and she makes homemade hot sauce, too!

Three tacos filled with shredded meat, topped with red onions and cilantro, served with sliced cucumber and a wedge of lime on the side.
Check out these beauties! Image: Birria Babe

Chicago’s Chicken & Waffles

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info: chicagoschickenandwaffles.com

This soul food eatery opened quietly, but it deserves to be on your radar. Of course, if you’re a fan of chicken and waffles, you may already be planning a visit. But the menu goes way beyond the popular combo. Feast on classics like fried catfish, biscuits and gravy, and every Southern side you can think of — from greens and cornbread to red beans and rice and mac and cheese.

Plates of waffles topped with butter and powdered sugar, served with fried chicken drumsticks and thighs, and small containers of syrup.
Dig into some seriously good soul food at Chicago’s Chicken & Waffles. Image: Facebook

MR*T

Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: Instagram

If you’re visiting or passing by Midtown’s Kenect complex, stop into its newly opened cafe and market, MR*T. Aside from all your market essentials, including treats from local institutions like The Loveless Cafe and Olive & Sinclair Chocolate Co., you can also find a coffee bar, tasty pastries, smoothies, boba teas, and more. It’s also a great space to work remotely!

ONDA Nashville

Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info: ondanashville.com

We’re sad to see Midtown pub Scout’s close after only two years, but newcomer ONDA certainly has us intrigued. The “groovy Korean restaurant and bar” bestows Korean culture and tasty authentic dishes on the neighborhood. The bright and airy space sheds some natural light on a menu that includes kimchi fried rice, spicy pork bulgogi, bossam (slow-cooked pork belly), and so much more.

Korean spicy stir-fried dish with vegetables served on a sizzling plate, accompanied by side dishes and a metal bowl, placed on a wooden table.
Indulge in flavorful dishes like Korean fried chicken wings, grilled marinated short ribs, and so much more! Image: Austin Jo for ONDA Nashville

Shotgun Willie’s

Neighborhood: Madison
More Info: sgwbbq.com

Nashville sure loves some brisket! With a grand opening just before the Fourth of July holiday, Shotgun Willie’s expanded to Madison. This beloved Texas-style barbecue joint started out in a food truck, later moving to its inaugural East Nashville location in 2020 amid the pandemic. Now, Madison can brag about its newest go-to for Texas Hill Country sausage, Tennessee pulled pork, smoked chicken, and Wagyu brisket. Yum!

Sliced smoked brisket with a dark, seasoned crust displayed on a wooden cutting board, ready for you to enjoy at July New Restaurant.
Madison gives us another chance to feast on brisket from Shotgun Willie’s. Image: Facebook

Sunset on Belcourt

Neighborhood: Hillsboro Village
More Info: sunsetonbelcourt.com

The team behind Supper Club and Bungalow10 has done it again, recently opening an al fresco restaurant and cigar bar, Sunset on Belcourt, in Hillsboro Village. Beat the summer heat with cocktails, tapas, live music, and cigars, and enjoy dishes like cilantro lime hummus, pesto Caprese salad, and a Wagyu burger.

Outdoor patio seating area with orange cushioned benches, wicker chairs, round tables, string lights, and greenery in the background on a sunny July day at the new restaurant.
Soak up some sun on the patio at Sunset on Belcourt. Image: Sunset on Belcourt Cigar Lounge

Sushi|Bar + Golden Sound

Neighborhood: The Gulch
More Info: sushibarhospitality.com

If someone had told us last year that we’d welcome an “omakase speakeasy” to Nashville, we might have been skeptical. But that was before the introduction of Sushi|Bar, located inside the new cocktail lounge Golden Sound. Now, the exclusive, intimate, two-hour dining experience is open and taking reservations for 12 people per seating (there are three seatings per night). Nashville is the fifth city to offer this 17-course dinner that consists of top-tier, seasonally rotating nigiri presentations with fish flown in weekly from Japan. And don’t forget to ask for a sake pairing!

A black plate featuring three pieces of sushi on a wooden surface: one topped with shaved truffle, another with a golden-brown crispy topping, and the third adorned with orange flower petals.
Nigiri enthusiasts are in for a memorable 17-course meal at the new Sushi|Bar. Image: Adept Hospitality

Toastique

Neighborhood: Germantown
More Info: toastique.com

You can find this “gourmet toast and juice bar” throughout the United States, and now, that includes Germantown! If you thought breakfast toast was a one-trick pony with smashed avocado, think again. From lump crab and sriracha aioli to tomato and burrata with pesto and balsamic glaze, these toasts are anything but average. Snag a wellness shot, cold-pressed juice, smoothie, or coffee to top off your breakfast.

A hand drizzles honey onto an open-faced sandwich with burrata, peaches, prosciutto, and walnuts on a wooden board. In the background, a plant and cloth hint at a cozy setting perfect for this summer's new restaurant opening in July.
Toastique offers seasonal toasts like this beautiful peaches, prosciutto, and burrata iteration. Image: Facebook

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 JUNE 2024

School is out, temperatures are ALL the way up, and the Nashville food scene is absolutely buzzing. From quaint cafes and sandwich shops to swanky cocktail clubs and the reopening of an old favorite, we’re excited to share the news of a whopping 14 recent openings. Add these spots to your must-try list!

1865 Club

Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info:
1865club.com

If you’re looking for an intimate spot for your next romantic date night, you just found it. The 1865 Club has maintained a rather under-the-radar, secret existence since it opened in April. Located in the basement of a historic building in Midtown, this speakeasy-style bar is the perfect place for elegant cocktails and quiet conversation.

The stellar cocktail list is accompanied by a small menu of bites, including burrata with olive oil, prosciutto with fig jam and crostini, and a pizzetta.

A smartphone, a closed notebook, and a cocktail glass sit on a well-lit marble counter in one of June 2024's newest restaurants, casting a chic glow in the dimly lit setting.
Enjoy sophisticated cocktails at the 1865 Club — like the Sun-Maid Martini, featuring gin, raisin, coriander, and orange blossom. Image: Facebook

Bell Bottoms Up

Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info:
bellbottomsupbar.com

Lainey Wilson joins the (now extensive) roster of country music artists with Downtown venues. Bell Bottoms Up is her new three-story entertainment destination with two stages, four bars, and more. There’s even a rooftop level, where you can enjoy a ’70s Western aesthetic, disco-inspired decor, and frozen cocktails. The Cajun-inspired menu features dishes like crawfish and shrimp boils.

Two flatbread pizzas on wooden boards: one topped with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic drizzle; the other with arugula, mushrooms, ricotta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. A taste of what June 2024's new restaurants will offer.
Grab a bite with Louisiana-inspired influence — from flatbreads to a shrimp boil. Image: Lainey Wilson’s Bell Bottoms Up Bar/TC Restaurant Group

The Blueprint Underground Cocktail Club

Neighborhood: Printer’s Alley
More Info:
blueprintcocktailclub.com

Printer’s Alley is welcoming a new era of nightlife with the arrival of The Blueprint Underground Cocktail Club. Following the success of Sunda New Asian in The Gulch, Billy Dec brings his renowned nightlife expertise, offering a versatile space for upscale cocktail lounges, nightclubs, and live music venues that celebrate local creatives and global talent. You can expect fashion shows, international DJs, and local singer-songwriter showcases.

The dimly lit bar with red and gold decor, featuring "The Blueprint Supply Co. Underground Cocktail Club" sign above a marble bar counter with stools and lounge seating in the foreground.
Let the moody nightlife begin! Image: The Blueprint Underground Cocktail Club

Buds & Brews

Neighborhood: East Nashville – Five Points
More Info:
budsandbrewsusa.com

Cannabis bar and restaurant Buds & Brews is opening its second location in East Nashville’s Five Points neighborhood. As with the Germantown location, you can order from an extensive menu of THC-infused beverages and food items, including favorites like the Bud’s Burger, Hot Chicken Tacos, and even vegan selections. The new location also features 5 Points Beer Garden, an outdoor space with a tap selection of more than 40 beers!

A tray of buffalo chicken wings with celery sticks, two dipping sauce containers, and a glass of beer on a wooden table.
At Buds & Brews, house sauces are made with locally crafted, hemp-derived THC. Image: Buds & Brews

Cafe Sperry’s

Neighborhood: Bellevue
More Info:
sperrys.com

Under the same roof as Sperry’s newest mercantile, you can also enjoy Cafe Sperry’s — the latest gem in the Sperry’s family. Located in Bellevue, this inviting coffee shop is a haven for those craving exceptional blends and a cozy atmosphere. You can indulge in specialty coffees — from velvety lattes to robust cold brews — as well as various pastries and snacks. It’s the perfect spot for catching up or stealing a few quiet moments with a good book.

A standalone building marked "Sperry's Mercantile" with an American flag on a pole outside. The background includes trees and a hill under a partly cloudy June sky.
Snack and sip specialty coffees at Sperry’s new cafe. Image: Sperry’s

Cal’s Country Kitchen

Neighborhood: East Nashville

More Info: calscountrykitchen.com

Cal’s Country Kitchen has been a Madison staple for several decades. Now, the soul food favorite has reopened in a new location — East Nashville! Clint Gray (co-owner of Slim & Husky’s)  joins former footballer Marcus Buggs to resurrect this Nashville meat-and-three institution. Feast on Southern classics like turnip greens, meatloaf, pork chops, black-eyed peas, banana pudding, and so much more.

A styrofoam tray from one of the new restaurants opening in June 2024 features crispy fried chicken, baked beans, and fresh spinach or collard greens. A fork is placed on one piece of chicken.
Soul food at its finest, thanks to Cal’s Country Kitchen. Image: Facebook

Crumbly Corner Cafe

Neighborhood: Wedgewood-Houston
More Info:
crumbly-corner.com

Get your caffeine fix at Wedgewood-Houston’s latest addition — Crumbly Corner Cafe, located in the former Loading Dock space. This sweet new bakery and coffee shop offers up a menu with brunch items ranging from BLT sandwiches to avo toasts, breakfast tacos, and fresh-baked goodies. “We are serving an array of European classic breads and sandwiches, plus desserts that have a unique touch of excellence with more options for breakfast, too,” says co-owner Akash Mandhare.

A sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and a visible filling on a white plate against a textured grey background.
Crumbly Corner Cafe offers tasty pastries and so much more … like this classic BLT. Image: Isaac Cox

DeLuca

Neighborhood: West Nashville – White Bridge
More Info:
delucanashville.com

Authentic Italian is the culinary theme at this new upscale dining spot in West Nashville. Located in the former Porta Via space, this eatery is rumored to be the only Nashville Italian restaurant where native Italians serve as both the chef and general manager. Consider us intrigued.

With a complete list of dishes ranging from antipasti (appetizers) and insalate (salads) to pizze (pizzas) and dolci (desserts), there’s plenty to choose from. In our humble opinion, menu standouts include the Polipo (fresh-caught octopus, charred and grilled, then served on a bed of parsley with potatoes), Gnocchi Crema di Pistacchio Salata (homemade gnocchi with pistachio cream and burrata), and Cotoletta Milanese (veal with arugula and Pomodoro confit).

A halved orange filled with a salad mixture, garnished with fresh dill, placed on a white plate.
Talk about color-forward. This vibrant dish includes fresh oranges, fennel, Castelvetrano olives, and homemade citronette dressing. Image: Facebook

High Point Coffee

Neighborhood: Edgehill
More Info:
highpointcoffeenash.com

Bagel sandwiches and tasty coffee unite at this new coffee shop between Edgehill and Music Row. Enjoy caffeinated creations from a Cuban to a Cortado, and bagel bites from The Veggie (hummus, avocado, tomato, onion, and cucumber) to Red Phone Booth (bacon, sausage, egg, sriracha, cream cheese, and pepper jack). Oh, and all of the food and beverages are available to order ahead if you’re on the go.

A breakfast sandwich with egg, sausage, and melted cheese is on a red and white checkered surface.
Breakfast sandwich, anyone? Image: Facebook

JamBox Sandwich Shop

Neighborhood: Wedgewood-Houston
More Info:
Instagram

Nashville restaurateurs Shane Nasby and Tyler Lechtanski have teamed up with Wedgewood-Houston’s Fait la Force Brewery to offer a menu of 10 handcrafted sandwiches. Each sandwich creation is topped with a signature sweet or savory jam and inspired by ’80s and ’90s music — a “jam,” if you will.

The menu will rotate, but the opening menu features the Orange Crush (chicken breast, pepper jack cheese, bacon, boom boom slaw, crispy wontons, and orange marmalade) and the Kool Moe Dee (Black Forest ham, white American cheese, bacon, fresh mint leaves, and apple butter jam).

Three stacked sandwiches loaded with various ingredients, placed in front of a vintage radio. The top sandwich, reminiscent of a Paste-Over creation, combines avocado and fruit spread while the others boast diverse fillings.
Topped with jam, these sandwiches are a nod to 80s and 90s music culture. Image: JamBox Sandwich Shop

Nashville Street Taco

Neighborhood: 12South
More Info:
nashvillestreettaco.com

Yes, “street tacos” is in the name. No, that’s not the only thing worth trying on this menu! 12South’s newest taco joint boasts a fairly extensive roster of Mexican favorites, from queso and guacamole to burritos and taco salads. Of course, you can also feast on street tacos to your heart’s delight. Favorites include the hot chicken, quesabirria, and green chili pork options.

Oh, and don’t forget a margarita!

A vibrant pink cocktail with a sugared rim and a small pink umbrella sits on a wooden table, accompanied by dishes of food blurred in the background.
Sure, the food is delightful. But have you seen how pretty the margaritas are?! This vibrant prickly pear option has us swooning. Image: Facebook

Raising Cane’s

Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: raisingcanes.com

Raising Cane’s flagship restaurant on Broadway is ready for its summer debut! Roughly a year since the restaurant opened on White Bridge, it is expanding even further. Get ready for even more of your favorite Raising Cane’s menu items, such as chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, and Texas toast.

An outdoor table with an assortment of Raising Cane's items, including chicken fingers, fries, toast, coleslaw, sauces, lemonade, iced tea, and various combo meals.
Raising Cane’s offers us another location this summer! Image: Raising Cane’s

Tall Tales

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info:
waymoresnashville.com

Boutique hotel Waymore’s Guest House & Casual Club has unveiled Tall Tales, a rooftop bar on its 5th floor. With stunning downtown views, dynamic menus by Chef Daniel Gorman, and a unique “disco garden party” ambiance, this 6,000-square-foot space promises an unforgettable dining experience. Snack on roast beef sliders, Nashville Hot chips with ranch, and a summery watermelon salad. The cocktail menu shines with perfect warm-weather sippers like the Garden Hornet, featuring mezcal, matcha, lime, and mint.

A glass of red cocktail garnished with three blueberries on a toothpick, placed on a dark green marble surface.
Beautiful cocktails abound at Waymore’s new bar and lounge, Tall Tales. Image: Facebook

Tavern

Neighborhood: Midtown
More Info:
tavernnashville.com

Tavern has finally returned! After a two-year hiatus for structural upgrades, this local go-to is reopening its doors in a move the M Street team is fondly referring to as the “unveiling of Tavern 2.0.” If you’ve been pining for brunch favorites like the red velvet waffles or Singapore Stir Fry, you’re in luck — a handful of the eatery’s classics have made it onto the new menu. You can also expect a focus on craft cocktails and the return of the Tavern Burger!

An overhead view of a table at one of the new restaurants in Nashville showcases a variety of foods, including nachos, red velvet waffles, poached eggs with hollandaise sauce, fried eggs on toast, chips, a menu, and drinks.
Cheers to the return of Tavern! Image: Facebook

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 MAY 2024

Move over, spring. Summer is already on its way! As we make room for sunny weather, it’s nice to focus on ways to embrace the heat — like indulging in some patio dining with a frozen drink in hand! Fortunately, this month is ushering in another batch of great new restaurants where we can do just that. Check out these eight new eateries that offer everything from breakfast to boozy coastal-style cocktails.

Coral Club

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info:
thecoral.club

The brainchild of several hospitality veterans, Coral Club is brand new to the East Nashville scene. Located off Gallatin Pike, it offers a lively place for lounging with a libation. Coral Club’s interiors evoke a seaside escape, and the bright Sun Parlor and lush Rooftop Patio offer additional spaces to soak up the rays and channel the Amalfi Coast without ever leaving Nashville.

Skilled bartenders serve hand-crafted cocktails (think mezcal-infused beverages, freezer martinis, and beachy options like the Rosé Paloma) and a curated selection of wines and beer. The menu offers bar snacks to munch on while you sip, including black truffle popcorn, tinned fish with Spanish peppers, and a meat and cheese plate.

A glass filled with a yellowish drink, topped with crushed ice and garnished with a lemon wedge, sits on a gray surface against a beige wall—a refreshing scene reminiscent of the beverages served at new restaurants in Nashville.
Head to the new Coral Club for cocktails in a serene setting. Image: Victoria Quirk

Edley’s at The Factory at Franklin

Neighborhood: Franklin
More Info: edleysbbq.com

Edley’s is continuing to branch out, and The Factory at Franklin has joined the location roster. A favorite among Nashville BBQ enthusiasts, Edley’s menu focuses on good old-fashioned Southern cuisine, such as smoked wings, pulled pork, and brisket sandwiches accompanied by sides like green beans, mac and cheese, and banana pudding.

A pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw and pickles, topped with a small flag, served on a branded paper in a casual dining setting.
From brisket to pulled pork, Edley’s always delivers. Image: Facebook

Fonda

Neighborhood: 12South
More Info:
fondanashville.com

New York-based restaurant Fonda made its way to the 12South neighborhood in early May. While we’re sad to bid farewell to local favorite Josephine, we’re excited to try the newest restaurant from Chef Roberto Santibañez. From Ensalada de Nopales (cactus salad) and made-to-order guacamole to grilled lobster with street corn and wagyu ribeye with mole sauce, we’re chomping at the bit to try Nashville’s newest Mexican-inspired eatery.

A bowl of stewed vegetables topped with pickled onions on the left, and two pieces of grilled meat with a small container of dipping sauce on the right, placed on a rustic wooden table.
At 12South’s newest authentic Mexican joint, you can try specials like Pescado a la Veracruzana (roasted halibut) and Costillos (Iberian pork ribs). Image: Instagram

Forevermore Coffee

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info:
forevermorenashville.com

Started by a husband-and-wife team, Forevermore is so much more than a coffee shop. After a stint in Uganda, JP and Mary McLeod decided to impart a bit of slow and intentional living in Nashville. They bring their passion for coffee and local goods to East Nashville with their new shop and cafe, which offers all sorts of goodies — from iced lattes to clothing and accessories. Wait until you see the homemade pop-tarts!

Fox Run Cafe at Belle Meade Winery

Neighborhood: Belle Meade
More Info:
bellemeadewinery.com

Belle Meade Winery already offers a beautiful venue for strolling and tasting, and its newest space, Fox Run Cafe, adds another layer of enjoyment altogether. The historic Greek Revival-style plantation dates back to the 1840s, and you can visit for everything from dining experiences to live music (which runs from April to November) to bourbon or wine tastings. But Fox Run adds a tasty touch with a menu featuring sandwiches, salads, charcuterie boards, spreads, and even Southern deviled eggs.

A rustic building with wooden doors and a stone facade, featuring potted bushes in front and a cobblestone walkway. There is signage on the exterior walls and a barrel placed to the right side.
Fox Run Cafe offers guests a great way to enjoy a bite along with their wine or bourbon tasting. Image: Belle Meade Winery

Keke’s Breakfast Cafe

Neighborhood: Gallatin
More Info:
kekes.com

Keke’s Breakfast Cafe recently opened in Hendersonville, and it’s already expanding to Gallatin! Known for everything from signature pancakes and Belgian waffles to a “Create-Your-Own” Omelet, you can find classic breakfast items along with fun twists on the staples. You can also grab sandwiches, salads, and burgers for lunch. And save room for a cocktail or two!

A breakfast bagel sandwich with bacon, egg, and cheese, served with a side of sautéed potato slices on a white plate.
Breakfast just got even tastier. Image: Keke’s Breakfast Cafe

Ladybird Taco: East Nashville

Neighborhood: East Nashville
More Info:
ladybirdtaco.com

According to the folks behind Ladybird, life isn’t just about tacos … it’s about coffee, too. Stop into East Nashville’s newest Mexican eatery for everything from a chorizo, egg, and cheese breakfast taco to the City Slicker Salad or Texas-style queso. And, of course, you can enjoy full barista service all day long! Additionally, East Nashville offers something you can’t get at the other Ladybird Taco locations — you can currently indulge in a cider, with mimosas and margaritas coming soon!

A tray containing a variety of mexican food, including tacos, quesadillas, chips, and a bowl of cheese dip with salsa.
Located in Riverside Village, the newest Ladybird Taco locale serves up food and spiked beverages! Image: Facebook

Tanya Tucker’s Tequila Cantina

Neighborhood: Downtown
More Info: nudieshonkytonk.com

Bill Miller has done it again. The owner of such establishments as Skull’s Rainbow Room, the Southern Turf Club, and Sinatra Bar and Lounge has teamed up with country music legend Tanya Tucker to open Tanya Tucker’s Tequila Cantina at the iconic Nudie’s Honky Tonk on Lower Broadway. The second floor turned into a lively cantina-style bar where you can find flavorful cocktails and Mexican-inspired cuisine. Head in for street tacos, chile verde, taquitos, and more.

A table setting featuring Mexican food with tortilla chips, guacamole, flautas, and a margarita in a restaurant. Background includes colorful artwork and movies posters.
Tanya Tucker’s Tequila Cantina offers up Mexican fare, margaritas, and plenty of music! Image: Icon Entertainment & Hospitality

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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