Atlanta Good Food category interest

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!

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.

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.

East Creamery

Neighborhood: East Nashville

More info: Instagram

The Shoppes at Fatherland, home to favorites like Abode Mercantile and Maru Sushi andamp; 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!

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.

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.

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?

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!

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.

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.

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 andamp; 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.

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.

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 andamp; cheese, and slaw.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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 andamp; 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!

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 andamp; 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.

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.

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!

Chicago’s Chicken andamp; 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.

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 andamp; 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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Buds andamp; Brews

Neighborhood: East Nashville – Five Points

More Info: budsandbrewsusa.com

Cannabis bar and restaurant Buds andamp; 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!

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.

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 andamp; 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.

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.

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).

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.

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).

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!

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.

Tall Tales

Neighborhood: East Nashville

More Info: waymoresnashville.com

Boutique hotel Waymore’s Guest House andamp; 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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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 APRIL 2024

It’s not just the long, sunny days and warmer temperatures. From cozy patios and food trucks to fabulous grab-and-go picnic options, Nashville’s restaurant scene is giving us plenty of reasons to dine al fresco. Here are eight new Nashville-area restaurants to put on your radar.

Blue Sushi Sake Grill

Neighborhood: Cool Springs

More Info: bluesushisakegrill.com

The walkable retail community of McEwen Northside has yet another spot to check out. Blue Sushi Sake Grill has opened its second Nashville locale (the other is at the Fifth + Broad complex), where you can enjoy sustainably sourced seafood, including an extensive sushi menu.

The restaurant offers Japanese-inspired interior design (check out the building’s geisha mural by local artist Eric “Mobe” Bass) and creative dishes like Crispy Brussels Sprouts in creamy lemon miso sauce and toasted cashews or River Rock Beef served on sizzling rocks with jalapeño ponzu. Don’t miss the sushi rolls, including a list of vegan options!

Cafe Yolan

Neighborhood: Downtown

More Info: thejosephnashville.com/dining

Arguably one of the best restaurants in Nashville (and that’s really saying something!), Yolan has expanded its offerings to include a cafe. That’s right; you can now indulge in Chef Tony Mantuano’s fine Italian cuisine morning, noon, and night.

Located in the lobby of The Joseph hotel, the cafe is open daily for breakfast (think exquisite Italian dishes such as Blueberry Cheesecake French Toast), lunch (Risotto alla Carbonara), and weekend brunch.

Ella’s by Christian Petroni

Neighborhood: Downtown

More Info: ellason2nd.com

You may have dined at Ella’s on 2nd, but not like this. The restaurant has taken on a new chef, concept, name, and menu, thanks to Food Network-born celebrity chef Christian Petroni, who merges his Italian heritage and Bronx, NY, upbringing to bring us Ella’s by Christian Petroni.

The new eatery, which is south of Broadway, focuses on rustic coastal Italian cuisine — with everything from Neapolitan-style eggplant parmesan to Spaghetti Vongole and Salmon Puttanesca with braised greens. You can also swing by for daily brunch and indulge in hearty options like a meatball sandwich or Ricotta Pancakes with Mortadella. For something a bit lighter, go for the homemade Whipped Ricotta served with charred broccoli, hazelnut, fresh chili, and lemon.

Little Rad Market

Neighborhood: Belle Meade

More Info: Instagram

Amanda Frederickson has done it again! The Radish chef and founder is expanding her repertoire to include Little Rad Market. “I love shopping at small curated markets with great prepared food and wanted to bring that to Nashville,” Amanda tells us. “Takeaway food can be just as delicious and even more convenient than going to a sit-down restaurant.”

Stop in for your morning coffee and breakfast, which includes house-made zucchini bread, breakfast sandwiches, chia pudding, and more. For lunch, grab a healthy salad or bowl. For dinner, you can look forward to prepared dishes such as grilled chicken with parsley pesto, beet salad with fennel and navel oranges, and frozen meals like lasagna, enchiladas, and stuffed shells. “We will also have the Radish froyo, cookies, gluten-free brownies, and a seasonal cake available for slices,” says Amanda.

Otaku Ramen East Izakaya

Neighborhood: East Nashville

More Info: otakuramen.com

Switching gears, the former Bar Otaku location in East Nashville is now home to Otaku Ramen East Izakaya, spearheaded by Chef Sarah Gavigan. As she notes, “The Japanese grill is back in action … In other words, it’s about to become a party!” Serving affordable, accessible Japanese food daily (they don’t even accept reservations; it’s walk-up only), the eatery is focusing on easy and delicious small plates — from skewers and Sesame Green Beans to the Blue Crab Hand Roll. And get ready to dance as you dine. The new concept will feature music programming such as playlists from local artists.

Puckett’s Hendersonville

Neighborhood: Hendersonville

More Info: puckettsrestaurant.com

Puckett’s has expanded to Hendersonville! The family-owned-and-operated restaurant has added its eighth location, featuring the same great food and live music offerings in a different county.

You can expect a full-service dining room, open seven days a week, with all your favorite comfort foods and meat-and-three specials for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Snag a seat on the covered patio and feast on everything from Pimento Cheese Bites and Fried Pickles to Cherry Wood-Smoked BBQ Ribs.

Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ at Chief’s

Neighborhood: Downtown

More Info: chiefsonbroadway.com

If you’ve never heard of Rodney Scott, you are in for a treat. The James Beard Award-winning pit master opened his first Tennessee location on April 5, and we’re over the moon about it. The whole-hog barbecue joint occupies the top two floors of Eric Church’s live music venue, Chief’s, and overlooks the Downtown scene with its “Hell of a Q” rooftop restaurant.

But that’s not all. The eatery also brings Broadway’s inaugural walk-up window, which serves food from morning until night (including late-night eats!). Head over for signature menu items like South Carolina-style pulled pork, smoked chicken wings, and Southern sides like hushpuppies and collard greens.

BONUS: Street Eats West

Neighborhood: West Nashville

More Info: bestfoodtrucks.com

While this isn’t exactly a restaurant, it definitely bears mentioning. The food truck scene doesn’t appear to be slowing down any time soon, and we’re here for it. Nashville’s newest go-to food truck collaboration is congregating at 5028 Charlotte Avenue, and it’s open daily! You can’t miss it, thanks to the vivid art from local artist Troy Duff. Check out the ever-changing food truck line-up, posted HERE.

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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