As someone born and raised in Nashville, I can recommend downtown restaurants that avoid the typical lower Broadway crowds. If you’re coming in the next few weeks and trying to find a good spot, these local recs focus on quality dining experiences beyond tourist areas. Notable options exist just outside the main loop, including places perfect for a couple or birthday dinner. My Husband and I frequently check these establishments, where the mezcal and old fashioned selections stand out. Considering your preferences, these suggestions offer some of the best things about Music City’s food scene. Thanks for seeking completely local perspectives.
Downtown Nashville Restaurants showcase expert-approved dining beyond hot chicken
Forget everything you think you know about Nashville’s food scene – yes, the hot chicken is easy to find and the biscuits are life-changing, but this birthplace of country music has a restaurant repertoire that goes beyond the basics. While bachelorette parties in matching pink tank tops and cowboy boots might enliven Lower Broadway, and thousands of tourists descend yearly looking to boogie through dozens of honky-tonks, locals know the real magic happens where Southern cooking roots get meshed with influences from diasporic communities all over the world. Thankfully, you have this handy guide to help navigate – no pedal taverns required. Recent years brought an influx of new restaurants that make downtown more than just touristy – it’s now a pleasant experience for everyone. After personally eating our way through every corner (it’s a tough job but someone had to do it!), we’ve gathered the absolute must-try spots that prove Nashville’s downtown dining scene has become known for far more than that. Below you’ll find our carefully curated recommendations – each one tested, tasted and approved by our team of local food experts.
House of Cards: Nashville’s Magic Dining Experience
Step into a magical evening at House of Cards, where you’re greeted at the door and treated like VIP guests from the first moment. The food is fantastic, with standouts like Chilean sea bass and butternut squash ravioli, while your server provides top notch service worthy of the vintage vibe. This isn’t just dinner – it’s where Nashville foodie culture collides with world class magic, featuring headliner Ryan Plunkett (with a stellar reputation from Chicago’s magic club scene) and other amazing magicians like Jeff Bornstein showcasing close-up wizardry. The atmosphere dazzles with magic cards everywhere and Johnny Cash memorabilia, while the formal dress code added to the elegant mood. We enjoyed celebrating a friend’s birthday here during Halloween week – though no photography allowed, the in-house photographer took our picture and printed a complimentary 5×7 souvenir. My husband and I love that it’s a terrific shared experience – perfect for groups of friends or date night. While expensive, it’s worth visiting at least once a year for the super cool experience and amazing food.
- Located in: Johnny Cash Museum
- Address: Lower Level, 119 3rd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201
Boqueria: Downtown Nashville’s Elevated Tapas Experience
We arrived at Boqueria Nashville two years ago after catching a Death Cab for Cutie show at the Ryman, and the memory still shines bright. Immediately impressed by the warm, professional welcome from Noah, we found ourselves returning last Valentine’s Day (though we just realized that was actually 2023 – how time flies!). Seated at the bar facing the open kitchen, we secured the fantastic spot to watch the Chef and team work their magic – a fun, engaging spectacle that enhanced our evening. The Boqueria Experience menu never disappoints – each dish beautifully presented and packed with authentic Spanish flavor. That 48-month aged hand-carved Jamón Ibérico Bellota remains phenomenal, perfectly paired with their top-notch wine selection. What makes this Fifth + Broad location so special? The thoughtfully curated blend of outstanding service, vibrant ambiance, and consistently excellent food – all just steps from the Park and library. Whether you’re a native or visiting downtown, pretty much anything on the menu makes a good choice for date night or family gatherings alike.
- Located in: Fifth + Broadway
- Address: 5005 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Sixty Vines: Wine, Dine, and Shine in Nashville
We discovered this beautiful restaurant by accident while exploring Assembly Food Hall – and what a happy accident it was! The stunning space immediately charms with its incredible floor-to-ceiling windows that created a cool, airy vibe, and the subtle scent of rosemary candles (available to buy if you fall in love with them like we did). Our server Luke was outstanding – when we didn’t look at the menu, he perfectly told what would match our mood, making the whole experience better. The fantastic shareable small plates format proved perfect for our group. We started with the burrata board featuring prosciutto di parma and cabot clothbound cheddar – each bite more delicious than the last. Then came must-try mains: the braised pork pappardelle in rich, flavorful sauce and crispy Brussels sprouts cooked to perfection. Our shared sides of perfectly cooked potatoes and light, creamy creste di gallo pasta were definitely sharable portions. This amazing meal made us wish we could remember every detail – it was that best. Between the thoughtful wine pairings, knowledgeable service, and incredible food, Sixty Vines delivered one of our most memorable dining experiences ever. Period. We’re already planning our return on February 10th, 2025 to explore more of their menu – that shrimp appetizer and cauliflower dish are calling our names! For an elegant but not stuffy atmosphere and must-try dishes, we highly recommend this spot – it’s hard to beat this complete dining experience.
- Located in: Assembly Food Hall
- Complete Address: Suite 3200 at 5055 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Fleet Street: Nashville’s Hidden Gem for Authentic Pub Fare
Tucked away in the historic Printers Alley, Fleet Street delivers the most authentic Irish pub experience in downtown Nashville. The downstairs location feels like a well-kept secret – the kind of place where you’ll find real Irish stew simmering and locals cheering soccer games on the telly. Their Irish Stew is absolutely legit – packed with plenty of tender beef, potatoes, and carrots in a broth that’ll kick arse and warm your heartbeat. For weekday lunch, don’t miss their unbeatable $7.50 special: a breaded fillet with chips, mushy peas, and fountain drink. We’ve been a couple times this month alone – their fish and chips are hands-down the best in town, featuring massive portions of beer-battered cod and house-made scratch sauces (even their ketchup isn’t from a bottle). The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between lively and cozy – great for a weekend pint or when you crave comfort food after work. Pro tip: Watch for the parking sign (it’s tricky) but worth the hunt for this hidden treasure. Whether you’re after their delicious wings, Brussel sprouts, or that massive bread pudding, Fleet Street never disappoints. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a proper pub experience without the Broadway crowds.
- Located in: Printers Alley Lofts
- Address: 207 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN 37201
Black Rabbit: A Downtown Nashville Gem Worth Hopping Into
Black Rabbit delivers exactly what you want from a downtown spot – great food without the tourists bumbling around in cowboy boots. The unpretentious atmosphere pairs perfectly with their fun cocktail menu – their Best Damn G&T might just be the best damn G&T you’ve had in a long time. Start with their excellent sourdough bread and can’t-miss special meatballs, then move to superb mains like the juicy pork chop (so tender it falls apart) or perfectly seasoned steaks. The Brussels sprouts with pesto and scratch-made gnocchi show off their interesting mix of flavors. While some dishes like the two-bite salads could be more generous, highlights like their delicious Nutella chocolate mousse pudding (yes, they offer both mousse and pudding) more than compensate. There table service was excellent – shoutout to bartender Matt who kept our spicy margaritas flowing and the laughs coming. Though located in the heart of downtown, Black Rabbit feels like a hidden gem – the kind of place where you can enjoy a wonderful band on Friday night without the Broadway chaos. Highly recommend for a chill dining experience that delivers really solid food across the board – from their great crab cakes to that pretty good kale salad. We’ll definitely return on our next crave – there’s still more we want to try from their spectacular menu!
- The restaurant is situated at: 218 3rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201
Skull’s Rainbow Room: A Nashville Institution That Shines
Stepping into Skull’s Rainbow Room feels like traveling back to Nashville’s golden era – the famous historic venue with its intimate stage for live music creates an authentic, classy vibe that’s fantastic but never pretentious. We got seated with a nice view of the band on a busy Wednesday evening (though weekends get packed – we’d recommend weekdays unless you have a reservation). The food is a traditional banquet affair with some stellar highlights: the NY prime steak was flavorful and tender (if slightly salty), while the absolutely delicious prime rib lived up to its reputation. Don’t miss their must-try old fashioned – one of the best in town. While some dishes like the dry Mac & cheese and blackened lamb rack were disappointing, standouts like the peanut butter pie were divine. For the price point, we expected more consistency – but the ambiance alone makes it worth visiting. Pro tip: Order less food to save room for their amazing hot chicken available later at Skull’s Mimo (open until 12:30). While not the cheaper option downtown, it’s totally special -We’ll absolutely be back – if only to prove to my friends that you can find proper crawfish étouffée and escargot in Nashville. Highly recommend for a nicer dinner when you want great music with your meal.
- Located in: Printers Alley
- Address: 222 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN 37219
Ophelia’s: A Charming But Inconsistent Downtown Italian Spot
Nestled within the iconic Life and Casualty Tower, Ophelia’s offers a delightfully charming Italian escape right in downtown Nashville’s heart – exactly the sort of spot where premium Parma ham and aged Parmegiano star on the menu, and Peroni beer comes served in proper glasses rather than plastic stuff. The decor feels inviting and cozy, with lovely background music that makes it a special little gem amid the downtown bustle. The food shows flashes of brilliance – their house-baked bread is delicious, and the lasagna can be super tasty when it’s on point. The Italian sandwich and Cesar salad also shine as amazing options. But consistency issues hold it back: our fish arrived prepared differently than requested (thought it was grilled, turned out sautéed), and some dishes like the spaghetti meatballs landed as mediocre. Service hiccups didn’t help – despite a reservation on a Wednesday, we waited 25 minutes past our time while the hostess acted like we’d arrived hours early. Still, when everything clicks (like that amazing Mother’s Day brunch we tried), Ophelia’s delivers large portions of tasty Italian fare on beautiful plates with proper cutlery. Worth visiting for the fresh air of their terrace or when you’re craving authentic flavors in a setting that’s nice without being stuffy – just double-check your order before digging in.
- Located in: Life and Casualty Tower
- Address: 401 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219
Bourbon Steak: Elevated Steakhouse Perfection with Stunning Views
Perched on the 34th floor of the JW Marriott Nashville, Bourbon Steak delivers an exceptional dining experience that makes even locals rethink downtown. The amazing view alone is worth the visit, but it’s the attentive, caring service (shoutout to John and Anthony at the bar) that elevates this steakhouse into something special. The food presentation showcases Chef Michael’s standard of excellence – from the MUST GET Tuna Tartare with its refreshing chili powder and sesame oil kick to the perfectly seasoned 8oz Rib Cap that balances fattiness with perfect acid contrast. Don’t miss their Wonderful Addition of Steak Tartare with briny capers and bright gherkins, or the Creamed Spinach that achieves ideal creaminess without overbearing saltiness. For dessert, the Banana Tart Tatin outshone standard Crème Brûlée with its crunchy puff pastry and delectable caramel, while the Crispy Beignet selection (those pillowy soft delights!) and Marshmallow Ice Cream capturing authentic s’mores flavors proved why they’re MUST GET items. While some plates occasionally lack flavor (the Pork Belly Fried Rice had slightly undercooked charred bits), the manager’s personal check-ins and complimentary fries show their care for guest experience. With fair prices for this quality and Paul the whiskey sommelier’s expert pairings, it’s a great choice for celebrating special occasions or when you want a downtown adventure with welcoming service that never feels impersonal.
- Located in: JW Marriott Nashville
- Location details: 201 8th Avenue South, 34th level, Nashville, Tennessee 37203
Red Phone Booth: Nashville’s Best-Kept Speakeasy Secret
Tucked away on Rosa L. Parks Blvd, Red Phone Booth offers a cool, members-only speakeasy experience that feels like stepping into a 1920s cigar lounge. The entrance—hidden behind an old English phone booth—requires a phone number to unlock (pro tip: ask your hotel concierge for the code if you’re not a member). The vibe is exclusive but welcoming, with dim lighting, plush leather seating, and a walk-in humidor stocked with a wide cigar selection for purchase. The cocktails are phenomenal—their Vesper and Aviation are standouts—and the bartenders craft nearly anything you request with precision. While the dress code (collared shirts for men) is enforced on weekends, they keep spare jackets on hand for guests who need one. Unlike the honky-tonk chaos of Broadway, this place offers an upscale retreat with an air of mystery. Whether you sneak in with a group or sit at the bar to watch the mixologists work, the ambiance alone makes it worth the visit. Highly recommend for a nightcap or a break from Nashville’s typical scene—just don’t expect to stumble in without the code!
- Address: 136 Rosa L. Parks Blvd, Nashville, TN 37203
12/30 Club: Nashville’s Ultimate Supper Club Experience
Located right on Broadway but worlds apart from the typical honky-tonks, 12/30 Club delivers a next-level dining and entertainment experience. We booked the entire second floor for a conference event and were blown away—live bands, incredible service, and food that’s anything but ordinary. The Twelve Thirty Supper Club was a standout meal—think fresh sushi, prime rib, and appetizers like crispy tuna and burrata carpaccio (those crunchy fried capers with mustard crème fraîche? Chef’s kiss). Their autumn sour cocktail was fantastic, though the spicy margarita packed even more punch—BR’s mixologists clearly know their craft. We ate at 5:15 pm before a Ryman show (perfect for a classy pre-game), but this place truly shines at night, buzzing with really good acoustic acts and an electric yet refined vibe. As a self-proclaimed fan of elevated dining, I’d rank this above Skulls Rainbow Room for a world-class evening. For a birthday, anniversary, or just because, 12/30 Club nails it: impeccable service (they surprised us with champagne!), generous portions (that whole loaf of focaccia—yes, please), and a memorable night all around. Highly recommend—this isn’t just dinner, it’s a Super Club-level experience. We’re already planning our next visit!
- Address: 550 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
The Patterson House: Nashville’s Timeless Cocktail Haven
A great place to meet friends or catch up over brilliantly crafted drinks, The Patterson House has long been a Nashville staple—though it’s changing soon, and we’re sad to lose the current spot. However, we know the new location will impress. Their jack and coke was a revelation—they’d put smoked syrup back in the bag (literally, a smoky YES to that NAME). We ordered a bunch of drinks, and each certainly delivered. At first, I liked simpler cocktails, but after trying their creations, I enjoyed every sip. Looking for a refined vibe? This is exactlyyyy it. Whether you stay nearby or just happened to walk in, you’ll leave planning your next visit. I will always recommend stopping for a drink here.
- Venue Directions: 700 8th St S, 5th Floor, Nashville, Tennessee 37203
Harper’s: A Nashville Dining Experience Worth Celebrating
When my friend turned 30 this year, I gave her a little surprise dinner and chose Harper’s as our dinner spot—and what a fantastic decision it was! From the AMAZING service to the exceptional food, every detail made the experience unforgettable. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between fun and refined—we felt treated well from start to finish. Everything we tried—from appetizers to main dishes—was stellar. The scallops melted in my mouth, and my husband’s prime rib was cooked to perfect medium-rare with a demi-glace that kicks the taste up a notch. Our server was brilliant, suggesting we pick half-sizes of sides so we could try more without overordering. Standouts? The Beef Wellington, lobster bisque, and crispy potstickers—it’s hard to pick a favorite! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday (they even printed “happy birthday” on our menu!), an anniversary, or just craving an upscale yet comfortable night out, Harper’s delivers. We’ll certainly come back—and will tell anyone we know coming to Nashville this is a must-visit. Definitely returning!
- Address: 2 Lea Ave, Nashville, TN 37210
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood: Nashville’s Elegant Dining Escape
A perfect spot for special occasions or upscale dinners, Eddie V’s delivers exceptional seafood and steak in a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. While priced on the higher end, the quality food and impeccable service make it worth the splurge—especially before events at nearby venues. Expect culinary excellence from start to finish? You won’t be disappointed. The Chilean sea bass melts in your mouth with its perfectly flaky texture and subtly sweet sauce, while shareable sides like the crab fried rice offer generous portions that satisfy. Our waiter Mark elevated the experience with his attentive yet entertaining service—a true professional who made recommendations that delighted our entire table.
The menu shines with standout dishes:
- Ahi tuna tartare (fresh, vibrant starter)
- Parmesan-crusted cod (rich, buttery perfection)
- Lobster bisque (velvety smooth with depth of flavor)
- Filet medallions (cooked to precise temperature)
Everything arrived perfectly seasoned and beautifully plated. We especially appreciated how the staff accommodated our pre-concert timeline when we mentioned our Tom Jones show—true hospitality that makes Eddie V’s a reliable choice for event nights. Dress leans toward business casual (leave the shorts and flip-flops at home), and the ambiance strikes that ideal balance between sophisticated and comfortable. The patio offers lovely al fresco dining when weather permits. From the expertly crafted espresso martinis (super chilled and strong) to the decadent crème brûlée finale, Eddie V’s delivers a 10/10 experience. We’ll absolutely be back—and will continue recommending it as one of Nashville’s finest upscale dining options. • Address: 590 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Gannon’s: Nashville’s Refined Culinary Gem
Though just a year old, Gannon’s has quickly become a must-try destination for classic old-school fine dining with modern flair. Nestled within the Courtyard Marriott along Downtown’s 4th Avenue, the restaurant’s sophisticated interior – featuring soaring ceilings, gleaming tin details, and intimate lighting – transports guests to a Roaring Twenties supper club, enhanced by sultry live jazz performances and an exceptionally crafted bar area. bar that creates the ideal atmosphere for an exceptional dining experience The menu is a masterclass in balance: started with the eggplant Olivia (a revelation) and lobster bisque (rich but not overly creamy), followed by a filet cooked to perfection with buttery mushrooms and the star of the show—the lamb, so tender and full of flavor it truly stood out. The timpano (think beef Wellington’s decadent cousin) and generous shrimp dish also impressed. Desserts? The white chocolate bread pudding and fried pecan pie with ganache are delish, like fair-style fried sweets elevated to art. Service matches the food’s excellence—Bennet, our server, was attentive, knowledgeable, and made us feel welcome from the moment we sat down. A rare personal touch: Chef Gannon (formerly of Skull’s Rainbow Room) visited our table, making our special birthday celebration even more memorable. Portion sizes are hearty without being overwhelming, and the wine list (loved the Chalk Hill Chardonnay) complements every dish. Highly recommend bringing a jacket—it’s cold inside, but the warm ambiance more than compensates. Already planning our third visit—Gannon’s completely exceeds expectations.
- Address: 170 Fourth Avenue North, Nashville, Tennessee 37219
The Mockingbird: A Whimsical Culinary Adventure
From the moment you step inside The Mockingbird, the vibrant energy is palpable. The owners, who were featured on HGTV’s House Hunters, have created a space that’s both delightfully inviting and casually upbeat—think modern diner meets global fare with a playful twist. The decor is colorful and fun, with cozy two-seaters by the window and larger tables for groups. We started with the pimento cheese arancini—amazingly delicious with yummy dipping sauces—and the Jamaican jerk wings, which were crispy outside, tender inside, and packed just the right amount of kick. For mains, the award-winning Mockingburger (an elevated Big Mac) lived up to its hype, while the seared salmon with red curry sauce and pineapple pico de gallo was a standout. Dessert stole the show—the strawberry olive oil cake layered with liquid cheesecake and milk crumbs was the perfect sweet finish. Service was quick and friendly—our server was enthusiastic and full of great suggestions. Bartender Brody also made our evening extra special with his warm, welcoming vibe. No complaints, just five-star praise for this thoughtfully conceived spot. Easily one of the best restaurant experiences we’ve had recently—definitely on our list for next visit!
- Address: 121 12th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37203
Frequently Asked Questions Where can I find authentic Nashville barbecue downtown?
Skip the tourist traps—head to Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint for authentic West Tennessee whole hog-style ‘cue. Their downtown location is a good intro to Southern barbecue, serving massive portions that could feed a bucketful of hungry friends.
Which downtown spot offers fine dining without the Broadway?
Harper’s delivers with sleek steakhouse vibes, tender cuts (try the elk!), and showy aplomb in large-format desserts. Or escape the epicenter entirely at Yolan—just blocks outside the chaos—for worthy destination-worthy wine and pasta.
What’s the most unique dessert experience downtown?
Joe’s Muer Seafood brings dramatic old-school vibes with bow-tied servers and a roving dessert cart. For something modern, Pinewood Social pairs creative sweets with coffee, bowling, and a killer ambiance.
Where should I go for innovative dishes that aren’t just hot chicken?
Deb Paquette’s Etch (a revered staple since 2012) serves unexpected items like duck tart and carrot enchilada. Husk—from renowned Charleston—also reimagines Southern ingredients with precision.
Is there a downtown restaurant that doubles as an activity spot?
Pinewood Social! It’s a coffee shop, bowling alley, and restaurant rolled into one—perfect if you prefer playful dining over formal settings.
What’s the best place for a special occasion dinner?
For dramatic old-school flair: Joe’s Muer Seafood (complete with roving dessert cart). For modern luxury: Harper’s (showy aplomb) or Yolan (James Beard-winning pasta and wine).
Where can I find locally loved spots that tourists overlook?
Eater’s guide uses local intel—check their list for gems like Etch (a chef-driven revered icon) and Martin’s (where locals queue for authentic ‘cue). Avoid the Broadway plague by heading just blocks outside the epicenter.
Final Thoughts – Is Downtown Worth It?
Good question—thanks for asking! Honestly, I was worried downtown might fade into culinary oblivion, but there’s a reason to keep going: the belly of the beast hides gems worth checking out. Yes, the downtown tax is real (both in prices and crowds), and sure, some spots legitimately suck—but we’ve reached a point where you can barely distinguish the best high-end restaurants downtown from those elsewhere. Want fun without the hassle? City House’s hidden bar delivers depending on the theme night. While I wouldn’t recommend eating downtown every day of the week, it’s now possibly good enough to get a great meal without leaving the urban core. Thanks for trusting us—the people who still eat downtown know what’s up!
Priya Patel
Food & Culture Specialist
A passionate food explorer, Priya has spent 9 years uncovering Nashville’s best-kept culinary secrets. Her anonymous reviews and deep local connections ensure every recommendation is authentic and trustworthy.