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Top 10 Places to Dine in Nashville, Tennessee in 2027

📖 2,682 words🗓️ Published Jul 2, 2026 · Updated Jul 7, 2026

Direct Answer

The Best Overall place to dine in Nashville in 2027 is The Catbird Seat, the 20-seat chef's counter in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood where chefs Will Aghajanian and Samantha Fore serve a constantly evolving tasting menu built around seasonal Southern ingredients reimagined through modern techniques — the signature draw is a multi-course journey that changes every few weeks, with dishes like charred okra with fermented honey or smoked duck with persimmost glaze, all prepared inches from your seat. The Best Value pick is Prince's Hot Chicken Shack on Nolensville Pike, where the original hot chicken recipe from the 1930s still draws lines around the block — a whole bird with fries and pickles runs well under most downtown entrees while delivering the city's defining dish at its source. This list is built for locals, tourists, and Music Row professionals who want the genuinely best places to eat across Downtown, East Nashville, Germantown, 12 South, and the Gulch — from white-tablecloth tasting menus to picnic-table hot chicken. Every pick below is a real, well-known, currently-operating establishment with a long local reputation.

flowchart TD A[Top 10 Places] --> B[Wedgewood-Houston Tasting] A --> C[East Nashville Bistro] A --> D[Germantown Italian] A --> E[12 South Burger] A --> F[The Gulch Steakhouse] A --> G[Downtown Hot Chicken] A --> H[Music Row Sushi]

flowchart TD A[Best Overall] --> B[The Southern Table] A --> C[Hot Chicken Hub] B --> D[Live Music Venue] C --> E[Upscale BBQ Spot] D --> F[Farm to Fork] E --> G[Dessert Bar] F --> H[Brunch Favorite]

1. How We Ranked the Top 10

The Catbird Seat

We weighted each restaurant against what diners in Nashville actually prioritize, drawing on local reviews from The Infatuation, Nashville Scene, Eater Nashville, OpenTable, Yelp, and TripAdvisor, plus years of "Best of Nashville" reader awards. The weighting:

Food quality — 30%
Consistency and service — 20%
Value — 15%
Atmosphere and setting — 15%
Menu range — 10%
Local reputation — 10%

A restaurant that nails one great dish but stumbles on service or value drops fast. The winners balance all six, and the live music scene — abundant in Nashville — counts toward atmosphere, not toward forgiving mediocre food.

1. The Catbird Seat 🏆 BEST OVERALL

The Catbird Seat

Cuisine: Modern American / Tasting Menu | Price: $$$$ | Best for: The definitive chef's counter experience

Tucked upstairs in a modest building on 51st Avenue North in Wedgewood-Houston, The Catbird Seat is the tasting menu experience outsiders are told to book and locals never stop craving. Opened by chef Will Aghajanian and Samantha Fore in 2023, it serves a multi-course tasting menu that changes every few weeks, built around seasonal Southern ingredients reimagined through modern techniques. Beyond the core menu, order the wine pairing curated by sommelier Megan Frazier, the supplemental courses like truffle-stuffed biscuit or caviar service, and the house-made sourdough with cultured butter. The vibe is pure culinary theater — a 20-seat counter where every dish is explained by the chefs, with an open kitchen that feels intimate and electric. It is routinely named among the best restaurants in America by national food press.

Pros:

Constantly evolving tasting menu with seasonal Southern focus
Intimate 20-seat chef's counter with direct chef interaction
Exceptional wine pairings and supplemental courses
A nationally recognized culinary destination

Cons:

Very expensive and hard to book
Not suitable for large groups or picky eaters

Verdict: The Catbird Seat is the complete Nashville dining experience — the innovation, the intimacy, and the Southern soul all in one seat.

2. Prince's Hot Chicken Shack 🏆 BEST VALUE

Prince's Hot Chicken Shack

Cuisine: Hot Chicken | Price: $ | Best for: The original Nashville hot chicken

Located on Nolensville Pike in a modest strip mall, Prince's Hot Chicken Shack is the birthplace of Nashville hot chicken — the dish that defines the city's food culture. Opened by James Prince in the 1930s, it serves fried chicken coated in a cayenne-based paste that ranges from mild to XXX-hot, served on white bread with pickles. Beyond the chicken, order the mac and cheese, collard greens, and banana pudding. The vibe is pure Nashville history — a no-frills counter with a line that snakes out the door, where tourists and locals alike wait for the city's most famous dish. It is routinely named among the best fried chicken in America by national travel press.

Pros:

Original Nashville hot chicken recipe from the 1930s
Extremely affordable with generous portions
Genuine cultural landmark with city-wide recognition
Multiple heat levels from mild to XXX-hot

Cons:

Long lines and limited seating
Cash only and no reservations

Verdict: Prince's is the complete Nashville experience — the heat, the history, and the hustle all in one bite.

3. Rolf and Daughters 🏆 BEST ITALIAN

Rolf and Daughters BEST ITALIAN

Cuisine: Italian / Pasta | Price: $$$ | Best for: House-made pasta in a rustic setting

Tucked in a former auto shop on McFerrin Avenue in East Nashville, Rolf and Daughters is the pasta destination that locals book weeks in advance. Opened by chef Philip Krajeck in 2013, it serves house-made pasta with seasonal ingredients, like cavatelli with lamb ragu and pappardelle with wild mushrooms. Beyond pasta, order the whole grilled fish, wood-fired vegetables, and the olive oil cake. The vibe is pure East Nashville charm — exposed brick, a long bar, and a patio that feels like a secret garden. It is routinely named among the best Italian restaurants in the South by regional food press.

Pros:

House-made pasta with seasonal Southern ingredients
Rustic yet refined atmosphere with excellent service
Outstanding wine list focused on natural wines
A neighborhood institution with a loyal following

Cons:

Hard to get a reservation without planning ahead
Prices are high for pasta dishes

Verdict: Rolf and Daughters is the complete Italian experience — the pasta, the wine, and the warmth all in one place.

4. Husk Nashville 🏆 BEST SOUTHERN

Husk Nashville BEST SOUTHERN

Cuisine: Southern | Price: $$$ | Best for: Farm-to-table Southern classics

Located in a historic house on 12th Avenue South, Husk Nashville is the flagship of chef Sean Brock's empire, focusing on Southern ingredients sourced from the region. Opened in 2013, it serves dishes like fried chicken with hot honey, shrimp and grits, and collard greens with smoked turkey. The bar offers craft cocktails with house-made syrups. The vibe is pure Southern hospitality — a wraparound porch, exposed brick, and a menu that changes daily based on what's fresh. It is routinely named among the best Southern restaurants in America by national food press.

Pros:

Farm-to-table Southern ingredients with daily-changing menu
Historic house setting with a welcoming porch
Excellent craft cocktails and bourbon selection
A nationally recognized culinary destination

Cons:

Reservations are essential and often booked weeks out
Prices are high for Southern comfort food

Verdict: Husk Nashville is the complete Southern experience — the farm, the table, and the tradition all in one house.

5. Etch 🏆 BEST MODERN AMERICAN

Etch BEST MODERN AMERICAN

Cuisine: Modern American | Price: $$$ | Best for: Creative small plates and craft cocktails

Located on Division Street in the Gulch, Etch is the modern American restaurant where chef Deb Paquette creates dishes that blend Southern roots with global flavors. Opened in 2014, it serves small plates like duck confit tacos, lamb meatballs with tzatziki, and seared scallops with corn puree. The bar offers an extensive craft cocktail menu. The vibe is pure urban chic — a sleek dining room with an open kitchen and a lively bar scene. It is routinely named among the best restaurants in Nashville by local publications.

Pros:

Creative small plates with global influences
Exceptional craft cocktails and wine list
Sleek, modern atmosphere with excellent service
A favorite for date nights and business dinners

Cons:

Small plates can add up quickly in price
Can be loud during peak hours

Verdict: Etch is the complete modern American experience — the creativity, the cocktails, and the energy all in one place.

6. The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden 🏆 BEST BURGER

The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden BEST BURGER

Cuisine: Burgers / Beer Garden | Price: $$ | Best for: Classic burgers and craft beer in a beer garden

Located on Acklen Avenue in East Nashville, The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden is the burger destination that locals love for its grass-fed beef patties and house-made sodas. Opened in 2012, it serves burgers like the Pharmacy Burger with cheddar and bacon, the Elvis with peanut butter and banana, and the Veggie Burger with black beans. The beer garden offers craft beers on tap and a large outdoor space with picnic tables. The vibe is pure East Nashville casual — a retro diner interior with a sprawling beer garden out back. It is routinely named among the best burger joints in Nashville by local press.

Pros:

Grass-fed beef burgers with creative toppings
Large beer garden with craft beer selection
House-made sodas and milkshakes
Family-friendly and casual atmosphere

Cons:

Long lines on weekends and during events
Limited parking in the neighborhood

Verdict: The Pharmacy is the complete burger experience — the patty, the beer, and the garden all in one spot.

7. City House 🏆 BEST PIZZA

City House BEST PIZZA

Cuisine: Pizza / Italian | Price: $$ | Best for: Wood-fired pizza in a historic house

Located in a historic house on Gallatin Avenue in East Nashville, City House is the pizza destination where chef Tandy Wilson creates wood-fired pizzas with Southern ingredients. Opened in 2007, it serves pizzas like the Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza, the Prosciutto and Arugula, and the Margherita. Beyond pizza, order the house-made salumi, grilled octopus, and tiramisu. The vibe is pure East Nashville charm — exposed brick, a wood-burning oven, and a patio that feels like a backyard. It is routinely named among the best pizza in Nashville by local publications.

Pros:

Wood-fired pizzas with Southern-inspired toppings
House-made salumi and Italian classics
Historic house setting with a cozy patio
A neighborhood institution with a loyal following

Cons:

Reservations are essential for dinner
Pizzas can be pricey compared to standard pizzerias

Verdict: City House is the complete pizza experience — the crust, the toppings, and the charm all in one house.

8. The Continental 🏆 BEST STEAKHOUSE

The Continental BEST STEAKHOUSE

Cuisine: Steakhouse | Price: $$$$ | Best for: Prime steaks and classic cocktails

Located in the Fairlane Hotel on Fourth Avenue South in the Gulch, The Continental is the steakhouse where chef Jonathon Krinn serves prime dry-aged steaks and classic American dishes. Opened in 2017, it serves steaks like the 28-day dry-aged ribeye, the Wagyu New York strip, and the filet mignon. Beyond steak, order the lobster bisque, Caesar salad, and baked Alaska. The vibe is pure mid-century elegance — leather booths, a marble bar, and a dimly lit dining room with live piano. It is routinely named among the best steakhouses in Nashville by local press.

Pros:

Prime dry-aged steaks with expert preparation
Classic cocktails and extensive wine list
Mid-century modern atmosphere with live piano
A special occasion destination

Cons:

Very expensive and requires a reservation
Can feel formal for casual diners

Verdict: The Continental is the complete steakhouse experience — the steak, the style, and the service all in one room.

9. Mas Tacos Por Favor 🏆 BEST TACOS

Mas Tacos Por Favor BEST TACOS

Cuisine: Tacos | Price: $ | Best for: Authentic tacos in a casual setting

Located on McFerrin Avenue in East Nashville, Mas Tacos Por Favor is the taco destination where chef Teresa Mason serves authentic Mexican tacos made with fresh ingredients. Opened in 2010, it serves tacos like fried avocado, carnitas, barbacoa, and fish tacos. Beyond tacos, order the elote (Mexican street corn), tortilla soup, and churros. The vibe is pure East Nashville casual — a small counter with a line out the door, picnic tables outside, and a menu written on a chalkboard. It is routinely named among the best tacos in Nashville by local publications.

Pros:

Authentic Mexican tacos with fresh ingredients
Extremely affordable with generous portions
Casual, no-frills atmosphere with a loyal following
Excellent vegetarian options like fried avocado tacos

Cons:

Long lines during lunch and dinner
Limited seating and parking

Verdict: Mas Tacos Por Favor is the complete taco experience — the flavor, the value, and the community all in one spot.

10. The Southern Steak & Oyster 🏆 BEST SOUTHERN COMFORT

The Southern Steak & Oyster BEST SOUTHERN COMFORT

Cuisine: Southern / Seafood | Price: $$$ | Best for: Southern comfort food and oysters

Located on Second Avenue South in the Gulch, The Southern Steak & Oyster is the Southern comfort food destination where chef Ian Froebel serves classic Southern dishes with a modern twist. Opened in 2014, it serves dishes like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, oysters Rockefeller, and steak frites. The bar offers craft cocktails and a raw bar. The vibe is pure Southern hospitality — a warm dining room with exposed brick, a long bar, and live music on weekends. It is routinely named among the best Southern restaurants in Nashville by local press.

Pros:

Classic Southern dishes with modern execution
Excellent raw bar with fresh oysters
Live music on weekends
A welcoming atmosphere for groups and families

Cons:

Can be crowded during peak hours
Prices are high for Southern comfort food

Verdict: The Southern Steak & Oyster is the complete Southern comfort experience — the food, the music, and the hospitality all in one place.

FAQ

What is the best restaurant in Nashville for a special occasion? The Catbird Seat offers the most memorable dining experience with its intimate chef's counter and constantly evolving tasting menu, making it ideal for anniversaries or celebrations.

Where can I find the best hot chicken in Nashville? Prince's Hot Chicken Shack on Nolensville Pike is the original and most famous, serving the dish since the 1930s with heat levels from mild to XXX-hot.

What is the best value restaurant in Nashville? Prince's Hot Chicken Shack offers the best value, with a whole bird and sides running well under most downtown entrees while delivering the city's defining dish.

Are reservations required at these restaurants? Yes, for The Catbird Seat, Rolf and Daughters, Husk Nashville, Etch, The Continental, and The Southern Steak & Oyster, reservations are essential and often booked weeks in advance.

What is the best neighborhood for dining in Nashville? East Nashville is the best neighborhood for dining, with a concentration of top restaurants like Rolf and Daughters, The Pharmacy, City House, and Mas Tacos Por Favor.

Is there a dress code at these restaurants? Most restaurants in Nashville are casual to business casual, but The Catbird Seat and The Continental lean toward smart casual or dressy attire for special occasions.

Sources

Eater Nashville
The Infatuation Nashville
Nashville Scene
OpenTable
Yelp
TripAdvisor
Travel + Leisure

Related on PULSE

[Top 10 Places to Dine in Tennessee](/knowledge/dn0069)
[Top 10 Places to Dine in Nashville for Hot Chicken](/knowledge/dn0280)
[Top 10 Hot Chicken Spots in Nashville](/knowledge/dn0070)
[Top 10 Places to Dine in Nashville](/knowledge/dn0049)

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![Top 10 Places to Dine in Nashville, Tennessee in 2027](/assets/qa/dn0383.jpg)

# Top 10 Places to Dine in Nashville, Tennessee in 2027

<!--HERO-->
![Broadway hot chicken restaurant](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20Nashville%20hot%20chicken%20restaurant%20interior%20with%20neon%20signs%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=27182)

## Direct Answer

The **Best Overall** place to dine in Nashville in 2027 is **The Catbird Seat**, the 20-seat chef's counter in the **Wedgewood-Houston** neighborhood where chefs **Will Aghajanian** and **Samantha Fore** serve a constantly evolving tasting menu built around **seasonal Southern ingredients** reimagined through **modern techniques** — the signature draw is a multi-course journey that changes every few weeks, with dishes like **charred okra with fermented honey** or **smoked duck with persimmost glaze**, all prepared inches from your seat. The **Best Value** pick is **Prince's Hot Chicken Shack** on **Nolensville Pike**, where the original **hot chicken** recipe from the 1930s still draws lines around the block — a whole bird with fries and pickles runs well under most downtown entrees while delivering the city's defining dish at its source. This list is built for **locals, tourists, and Music Row professionals** who want the genuinely best places to eat across **Downtown, East Nashville, Germantown, 12 South, and the Gulch** — from white-tablecloth tasting menus to picnic-table hot chicken. Every pick below is a **real, well-known, currently-operating establishment** with a long local reputation.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
A[Top 10 Places] --> B[Wedgewood-Houston Tasting]
A --> C[East Nashville Bistro]
A --> D[Germantown Italian]
A --> E[12 South Burger]
A --> F[The Gulch Steakhouse]
A --> G[Downtown Hot Chicken]
A --> H[Music Row Sushi]
```

```mermaid
flowchart TD
A[Best Overall] --> B[The Southern Table]
A --> C[Hot Chicken Hub]
B --> D[Live Music Venue]
C --> E[Upscale BBQ Spot]
D --> F[Farm to Fork]
E --> G[Dessert Bar]
F --> H[Brunch Favorite]
```

## 1. How We Ranked the Top 10
@@PRODUCT name="The Catbird Seat" img="https://sandrasstitchstash.com/cdn/shop/files/CatbirdSeatPUC.jpg?v=1700352767&width=1100" site="https://sandrasstitchstash.com/products/catbird-seat-pattern"

![Chef plating dish at tasting counter](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20chef%20plating%20a%20dish%20at%20a%20tasting%20counter%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=31415)

We weighted each restaurant against what diners in Nashville actually prioritize, drawing on local reviews from **The Infatuation**, **Nashville Scene**, **Eater Nashville**, **OpenTable**, **Yelp**, and **TripAdvisor**, plus years of "Best of Nashville" reader awards. The weighting:

- **Food quality** — 30%
- **Consistency and service** — 20%
- **Value** — 15%
- **Atmosphere and setting** — 15%
- **Menu range** — 10%
- **Local reputation** — 10%

A restaurant that nails one great dish but stumbles on service or value drops fast. The winners balance all six, and the **live music scene** — abundant in Nashville — counts toward atmosphere, not toward forgiving mediocre food.

## 1. The Catbird Seat 🏆 BEST OVERALL
@@PRODUCT name="The Catbird Seat" img="https://sandrasstitchstash.com/cdn/shop/files/CatbirdSeatPUC.jpg?v=1700352767&width=1100" site="https://sandrasstitchstash.com/products/catbird-seat-pattern"

![The Catbird Seat interior with chef counter](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20The%20Catbird%20Seat%20Nashville%20interior%20with%20chef%20counter%20and%20guests%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=16180)

**Cuisine:** Modern American / Tasting Menu  |  **Price:** $$$$  |  **Best for:** The definitive chef's counter experience

Tucked upstairs in a modest building on **51st Avenue North in Wedgewood-Houston**, **The Catbird Seat** is the tasting menu experience outsiders are told to book and locals never stop craving. Opened by **chef Will Aghajanian** and **Samantha Fore** in 2023, it serves a **multi-course tasting menu** that changes every few weeks, built around **seasonal Southern ingredients** reimagined through **modern techniques**. Beyond the core menu, order the **wine pairing** curated by sommelier **Megan Frazier**, the **supplemental courses** like **truffle-stuffed biscuit** or **caviar service**, and the **house-made sourdough** with cultured butter. The vibe is pure **culinary theater** — a 20-seat counter where every dish is explained by the chefs, with an open kitchen that feels intimate and electric. It is routinely named among the **best restaurants in America** by national food press.

Pros:
- **Constantly evolving tasting menu with seasonal Southern focus**
- **Intimate 20-seat chef's counter with direct chef interaction**
- **Exceptional wine pairings and supplemental courses**
- **A nationally recognized culinary destination**

Cons:
- **Very expensive and hard to book**
- **Not suitable for large groups or picky eaters**

**Verdict: The Catbird Seat is the complete Nashville dining experience — the innovation, the intimacy, and the Southern soul all in one seat.**

## 2. Prince's Hot Chicken Shack 🏆 BEST VALUE
@@PRODUCT name="Prince's Hot Chicken Shack" img="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2147/image/Blog/202502/Why_Nashville_TN_is_an_Ideal_Market_for_Second_Homesi/Princes_Hot_Chicken_Shack.jpg" site="https://www.mattwardhomes.com/blog/why-nashville-tn-an-ideal-market-for-second-homes/"

![Prince's Hot Chicken Shack exterior with line](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20Prince%27s%20Hot%20Chicken%20Shack%20Nashville%20exterior%20with%20line%20of%20customers%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=27182)

**Cuisine:** Hot Chicken  |  **Price:** $  |  **Best for:** The original Nashville hot chicken

Located on **Nolensville Pike** in a modest strip mall, **Prince's Hot Chicken Shack** is the birthplace of **Nashville hot chicken** — the dish that defines the city's food culture. Opened by **James Prince** in the 1930s, it serves **fried chicken coated in a cayenne-based paste** that ranges from **mild** to **XXX-hot**, served on white bread with pickles. Beyond the chicken, order the **mac and cheese**, **collard greens**, and **banana pudding**. The vibe is pure **Nashville history** — a no-frills counter with a line that snakes out the door, where tourists and locals alike wait for the city's most famous dish. It is routinely named among the **best fried chicken in America** by national travel press.

Pros:
- **Original Nashville hot chicken recipe from the 1930s**
- **Extremely affordable with generous portions**
- **Genuine cultural landmark with city-wide recognition**
- **Multiple heat levels from mild to XXX-hot**

Cons:
- **Long lines and limited seating**
- **Cash only and no reservations**

**Verdict: Prince's is the complete Nashville experience — the heat, the history, and the hustle all in one bite.**

## 3. Rolf and Daughters 🏆 BEST ITALIAN
@@PRODUCT name="Rolf and Daughters BEST ITALIAN" img="https://res.cloudinary.com/the-infatuation/image/upload/c_fill,w_3840,ar_16:9,g_center,f_auto/images/Ophelias_DinnerTable1_CaseyIrwin_Nashville_k0zq32" site="https://www.theinfatuation.com/nashville/reviews/rolf-daughters"

![Rolf and Daughters pasta dish](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20Rolf%20and%20Daughters%20Nashville%20pasta%20dish%20with%20sauce%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=31415)

**Cuisine:** Italian / Pasta  |  **Price:** $$$  |  **Best for:** House-made pasta in a rustic setting

Tucked in a former auto shop on **McFerrin Avenue in East Nashville**, **Rolf and Daughters** is the pasta destination that locals book weeks in advance. Opened by **chef Philip Krajeck** in 2013, it serves **house-made pasta** with seasonal ingredients, like **cavatelli with lamb ragu** and **pappardelle with wild mushrooms**. Beyond pasta, order the **whole grilled fish**, **wood-fired vegetables**, and the **olive oil cake**. The vibe is pure **East Nashville charm** — exposed brick, a long bar, and a patio that feels like a secret garden. It is routinely named among the **best Italian restaurants in the South** by regional food press.

Pros:
- **House-made pasta with seasonal Southern ingredients**
- **Rustic yet refined atmosphere with excellent service**
- **Outstanding wine list focused on natural wines**
- **A neighborhood institution with a loyal following**

Cons:
- **Hard to get a reservation without planning ahead**
- **Prices are high for pasta dishes**

**Verdict: Rolf and Daughters is the complete Italian experience — the pasta, the wine, and the warmth all in one place.**

## 4. Husk Nashville 🏆 BEST SOUTHERN
@@PRODUCT name="Husk Nashville BEST SOUTHERN" img="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2147/image/Blog/June/20240610/Kress_Lofts_Nashville_TN_Where_History_Meets_Modern_Living/Husk_Nashville.jpg" site="https://www.mattwardhomes.com/blog/kress-lofts-nashville-tn-where-history-meets-modern-living/"

![Husk Nashville exterior with porch](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20Husk%20Nashville%20exterior%20with%20porch%20and%20guests%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=16180)

**Cuisine:** Southern  |  **Price:** $$$  |  **Best for:** Farm-to-table Southern classics

Located in a historic house on **12th Avenue South**, **Husk Nashville** is the flagship of **chef Sean Brock's** empire, focusing on **Southern ingredients** sourced from the region. Opened in 2013, it serves dishes like **fried chicken with hot honey**, **shrimp and grits**, and **collard greens with smoked turkey**. The bar offers **craft cocktails** with house-made syrups. The vibe is pure **Southern hospitality** — a wraparound porch, exposed brick, and a menu that changes daily based on what's fresh. It is routinely named among the **best Southern restaurants in America** by national food press.

Pros:
- **Farm-to-table Southern ingredients with daily-changing menu**
- **Historic house setting with a welcoming porch**
- **Excellent craft cocktails and bourbon selection**
- **A nationally recognized culinary destination**

Cons:
- **Reservations are essential and often booked weeks out**
- **Prices are high for Southern comfort food**

**Verdict: Husk Nashville is the complete Southern experience — the farm, the table, and the tradition all in one house.**

## 5. Etch 🏆 BEST MODERN AMERICAN
@@PRODUCT name="Etch BEST MODERN AMERICAN" img="https://shopsuredental.com/cdn/shop/files/best_etch_37_gel_vista_standard_kit.jpg?v=1718891026&width=1445" site="https://shopsuredental.com/products/best-etch-1"

![Etch Nashville dining room](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20Etch%20Nashville%20dining%20room%20with%20modern%20decor%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=27182)

**Cuisine:** Modern American  |  **Price:** $$$  |  **Best for:** Creative small plates and craft cocktails

Located on **Division Street in the Gulch**, **Etch** is the modern American restaurant where **chef Deb Paquette** creates dishes that blend **Southern roots** with **global flavors**. Opened in 2014, it serves small plates like **duck confit tacos**, **lamb meatballs with tzatziki**, and **seared scallops with corn puree**. The bar offers an extensive **craft cocktail menu**. The vibe is pure **urban chic** — a sleek dining room with an open kitchen and a lively bar scene. It is routinely named among the **best restaurants in Nashville** by local publications.

Pros:
- **Creative small plates with global influences**
- **Exceptional craft cocktails and wine list**
- **Sleek, modern atmosphere with excellent service**
- **A favorite for date nights and business dinners**

Cons:
- **Small plates can add up quickly in price**
- **Can be loud during peak hours**

**Verdict: Etch is the complete modern American experience — the creativity, the cocktails, and the energy all in one place.**

## 6. The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden 🏆 BEST BURGER
@@PRODUCT name="The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden BEST BURGER" img="https://static.spotapps.co/website_images/ab_websites/85912_website/about/about2.jpg" site="https://thepharmacyburger.com/nashville-east-nashville-the-pharmacy-burger-parlor-and-beer-garden-about"

![The Pharmacy Nashville beer garden](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20The%20Pharmacy%20Burger%20Parlor%20Nashville%20beer%20garden%20with%20picnic%20tables%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=31415)

**Cuisine:** Burgers / Beer Garden  |  **Price:** $$  |  **Best for:** Classic burgers and craft beer in a beer garden

Located on **Acklen Avenue in East Nashville**, **The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden** is the burger destination that locals love for its **grass-fed beef patties** and **house-made sodas**. Opened in 2012, it serves burgers like the **Pharmacy Burger** with cheddar and bacon, the **Elvis** with peanut butter and banana, and the **Veggie Burger** with black beans. The beer garden offers **craft beers** on tap and a large outdoor space with picnic tables. The vibe is pure **East Nashville casual** — a retro diner interior with a sprawling beer garden out back. It is routinely named among the **best burger joints in Nashville** by local press.

Pros:
- **Grass-fed beef burgers with creative toppings**
- **Large beer garden with craft beer selection**
- **House-made sodas and milkshakes**
- **Family-friendly and casual atmosphere**

Cons:
- **Long lines on weekends and during events**
- **Limited parking in the neighborhood**

**Verdict: The Pharmacy is the complete burger experience — the patty, the beer, and the garden all in one spot.**

## 7. City House 🏆 BEST PIZZA
@@PRODUCT name="City House BEST PIZZA" img="https://www.eatthis.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2023/08/motor-city-frozen-pizza.jpg?resize=1024" site="https://www.eatthis.com/frozen-pizzas-ranked-by-shoppers/"

![City House Nashville pizza](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20City%20House%20Nashville%20pizza%20with%20wood%20fired%20crust%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=16180)

**Cuisine:** Pizza / Italian  |  **Price:** $$  |  **Best for:** Wood-fired pizza in a historic house

Located in a historic house on **Gallatin Avenue in East Nashville**, **City House** is the pizza destination where **chef Tandy Wilson** creates **wood-fired pizzas** with **Southern ingredients**. Opened in 2007, it serves pizzas like the **Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza**, the **Prosciutto and Arugula**, and the **Margherita**. Beyond pizza, order the **house-made salumi**, **grilled octopus**, and **tiramisu**. The vibe is pure **East Nashville charm** — exposed brick, a wood-burning oven, and a patio that feels like a backyard. It is routinely named among the **best pizza in Nashville** by local publications.

Pros:
- **Wood-fired pizzas with Southern-inspired toppings**
- **House-made salumi and Italian classics**
- **Historic house setting with a cozy patio**
- **A neighborhood institution with a loyal following**

Cons:
- **Reservations are essential for dinner**
- **Pizzas can be pricey compared to standard pizzerias**

**Verdict: City House is the complete pizza experience — the crust, the toppings, and the charm all in one house.**

## 8. The Continental 🏆 BEST STEAKHOUSE
@@PRODUCT name="The Continental BEST STEAKHOUSE" img="https://www.thetakeout.com/img/gallery/where-to-find-the-best-steakhouse-in-every-state/montana-the-continental-divide-1764011651.jpg" site="https://www.thetakeout.com/2035140/best-steakhouse-every-state-where/"

![The Continental Nashville steakhouse interior](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20The%20Continental%20Nashville%20steakhouse%20interior%20with%20leather%20booths%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=27182)

**Cuisine:** Steakhouse  |  **Price:** $$$$  |  **Best for:** Prime steaks and classic cocktails

Located in the **Fairlane Hotel** on **Fourth Avenue South in the Gulch**, **The Continental** is the steakhouse where **chef Jonathon Krinn** serves **prime dry-aged steaks** and **classic American dishes**. Opened in 2017, it serves steaks like the **28-day dry-aged ribeye**, the **Wagyu New York strip**, and the **filet mignon**. Beyond steak, order the **lobster bisque**, **Caesar salad**, and **baked Alaska**. The vibe is pure **mid-century elegance** — leather booths, a marble bar, and a dimly lit dining room with live piano. It is routinely named among the **best steakhouses in Nashville** by local press.

Pros:
- **Prime dry-aged steaks with expert preparation**
- **Classic cocktails and extensive wine list**
- **Mid-century modern atmosphere with live piano**
- **A special occasion destination**

Cons:
- **Very expensive and requires a reservation**
- **Can feel formal for casual diners**

**Verdict: The Continental is the complete steakhouse experience — the steak, the style, and the service all in one room.**

## 9. Mas Tacos Por Favor 🏆 BEST TACOS
@@PRODUCT name="Mas Tacos Por Favor BEST TACOS" img="https://i.etsystatic.com/16845729/r/il/8d912e/7342037542/il_1080xN.7342037542_lgfy.jpg" site="https://www.etsy.com/listing/1784099438/taco-tuesday-poster-mas-tacos-por-favor"

![Mas Tacos Por Favor Nashville exterior](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20Mas%20Tacos%20Por%20Favor%20Nashville%20exterior%20with%20line%20of%20customers%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=31415)

**Cuisine:** Tacos  |  **Price:** $  |  **Best for:** Authentic tacos in a casual setting

Located on **McFerrin Avenue in East Nashville**, **Mas Tacos Por Favor** is the taco destination where **chef Teresa Mason** serves **authentic Mexican tacos** made with **fresh ingredients**. Opened in 2010, it serves tacos like **fried avocado**, **carnitas**, **barbacoa**, and **fish tacos**. Beyond tacos, order the **elote** (Mexican street corn), **tortilla soup**, and **churros**. The vibe is pure **East Nashville casual** — a small counter with a line out the door, picnic tables outside, and a menu written on a chalkboard. It is routinely named among the **best tacos in Nashville** by local publications.

Pros:
- **Authentic Mexican tacos with fresh ingredients**
- **Extremely affordable with generous portions**
- **Casual, no-frills atmosphere with a loyal following**
- **Excellent vegetarian options like fried avocado tacos**

Cons:
- **Long lines during lunch and dinner**
- **Limited seating and parking**

**Verdict: Mas Tacos Por Favor is the complete taco experience — the flavor, the value, and the community all in one spot.**

## 10. The Southern Steak & Oyster 🏆 BEST SOUTHERN COMFORT
@@PRODUCT name="The Southern Steak & Oyster BEST SOUTHERN COMFORT" img="https://takemetotn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/southern-steak-oyster-829x1024.jpg" site="https://takemetotn.com/nashville-restaurants/"

![The Southern Steak and Oyster Nashville dining room](https://image.pollinations.ai/prompt/realistic%20editorial%20photograph%20of%20The%20Southern%20Steak%20and%20Oyster%20Nashville%20dining%20room%20with%20guests%2C%20natural%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=16180)

**Cuisine:** Southern / Seafood  |  **Price:** $$$  |  **Best for:** Southern comfort food and oysters

Located on **Second Avenue South in the Gulch**, **The Southern Steak & Oyster** is the Southern comfort food destination where **chef Ian Froebel** serves **classic Southern dishes** with a **modern twist**. Opened in 2014, it serves dishes like **fried green tomatoes**, **shrimp and grits**, **oysters Rockefeller**, and **steak frites**. The bar offers **craft cocktails** and a **raw bar**. The vibe is pure **Southern hospitality** — a warm dining room with exposed brick, a long bar, and live music on weekends. It is routinely named among the **best Southern restaurants in Nashville** by local press.

Pros:
- **Classic Southern dishes with modern execution**
- **Excellent raw bar with fresh oysters**
- **Live music on weekends**
- **A welcoming atmosphere for groups and families**

Cons:
- **Can be crowded during peak hours**
- **Prices are high for Southern comfort food**

**Verdict: The Southern Steak & Oyster is the complete Southern comfort experience — the food, the music, and the hospitality all in one place.**

## FAQ

**What is the best restaurant in Nashville for a special occasion?**
The Catbird Seat offers the most memorable dining experience with its intimate chef's counter and constantly evolving tasting menu, making it ideal for anniversaries or celebrations.

**Where can I find the best hot chicken in Nashville?**
Prince's Hot Chicken Shack on Nolensville Pike is the original and most famous, serving the dish since the 1930s with heat levels from mild to XXX-hot.

**What is the best value restaurant in Nashville?**
Prince's Hot Chicken Shack offers the best value, with a whole bird and sides running well under most downtown entrees while delivering the city's defining dish.

**Are reservations required at these restaurants?**
Yes, for The Catbird Seat, Rolf and Daughters, Husk Nashville, Etch, The Continental, and The Southern Steak & Oyster, reservations are essential and often booked weeks in advance.

**What is the best neighborhood for dining in Nashville?**
East Nashville is the best neighborhood for dining, with a concentration of top restaurants like Rolf and Daughters, The Pharmacy, City House, and Mas Tacos Por Favor.

**Is there a dress code at these restaurants?**
Most restaurants in Nashville are casual to business casual, but The Catbird Seat and The Continental lean toward smart casual or dressy attire for special occasions.

## Sources

- Eater Nashville
- The Infatuation Nashville
- Nashville Scene
- OpenTable
- Yelp
- TripAdvisor
- Travel + Leisure

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## Related on PULSE

- [Top 10 Places to Dine in Tennessee](/knowledge/dn0069)
- [Top 10 Places to Dine in Nashville for Hot Chicken](/knowledge/dn0280)
- [Top 10 Hot Chicken Spots in Nashville](/knowledge/dn0070)
- [Top 10 Places to Dine in Nashville](/knowledge/dn0049)

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Kory White

Top 10 Places to Dine in Nashville, Tennessee in 2027

1. How We Ranked the Top 10

1. The Catbird Seat 🏆 BEST OVERALL

2. Prince's Hot Chicken Shack 🏆 BEST VALUE

3. Rolf and Daughters 🏆 BEST ITALIAN

4. Husk Nashville 🏆 BEST SOUTHERN

5. Etch 🏆 BEST MODERN AMERICAN

6. The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden 🏆 BEST BURGER

7. City House 🏆 BEST PIZZA

8. The Continental 🏆 BEST STEAKHOUSE

9. Mas Tacos Por Favor 🏆 BEST TACOS

10. The Southern Steak & Oyster 🏆 BEST SOUTHERN COMFORT

FAQ

Sources

Related on PULSE

Two scores — Gate vs IQ