Nashville is a food mecca with a massive roster of restaurants for all tastes and preferences. With so many options, deciding on a date night spot can be difficult, making it easy to revert to the same old, same old. When indecision strikes, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re getting all dressed up or simply sneaking in an hour or two together, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite date-night destinations for all occasions.
All Dressed Up
Drusie & Darr at The Hermitage
231 6th Ave. N., Nashville, TN 37219 • (615) 345-7116
Hours: Monday through Sunday, 7 to 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Last year, The Hermitage Hotel’s Capitol Grille was transformed into the stunning Drusie & Darr, marking Michelin-starred chef Jean-George Vongerichten’s long-awaited debut in the South. Chef Jean-Georges’s menu showcases the abundance of Tennessee-grown produce combined with his signature globally-inspired flair. Not only is the food delicious, but the chic atmosphere provides a picture-perfect backdrop for a glamorous night on the town. Don’t forget to take a peek at the pink-marble ladies’ room!
There’s no better setting for a glamorous night on the town than Drusie & Darr at the iconic Hermitage Hotel. Image: Drusie & Darr
Henley
2023 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203 • (615) 340-6378
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 7 p.m. to 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday, 7 p.m. to 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to midnight; Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to midnight; Sunday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
This Midtown dining treasure provides a moody, romantic ambiance that screams date night. Arrive early to snag a seat at the gorgeous marble bar, which is situated in the middle of the restaurant. That’s your perch from which to experience the stellar cocktail program. Next, indulge in an unforgettable meal from executive chef Kristin Beringson, who combines Southern inspiration with French technique for a result that is nothing short of perfection.
Bourbon Steak
201 8th Ave S 34th floor, Nashville, TN 37203 • (629) 208-8440
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Located on the 34th floor of the hip JW Marriott Hotel, you’ll find what Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina calls his “love letter to the American steakhouse experience.” With sweeping downtown views and some of the city’s best steak, seafood, and wine selections, love is sure to be in the air.
Bourbon Steak sits atop the JW Marriott Hotel and offers sweeping downtown views. Image: Emily Dorio
The Continental
1000 Broadway Suite 101, Nashville, TN 37203 • (615) 622-3225
Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; closed Monday and Tuesday
Inside the Grand Hyatt, The Continental is acclaimed chef Sean Brock’s ode to the unique history and glamor of 19th- and early 20th-century American restaurants and hotels, complete with tableside cart service, innovative seasonal cooking, and unparalleled hospitality. For an extra swanky experience, book a martini and caviar tasting experience at The Vesper Club, an upscale cocktail bar inside the restaurant, for $100 per person.
Carne Mare
300 12th Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37203 • (615) 379-9000
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
With moody lighting and walnut tones, Carne Mare is an old-school Italian chophouse helmed by two-time James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini. Enjoy a meal of hand-selected cuts of steak, fine seafood, and Italian specialties, and be sure to save room for the 17-layer chocolate espresso cake and baked spumoni for two, which is flambéed tableside. Afterward, head to the rooftop at the connected W Nashville for a nightcap.
Carne Mare is an old-school Italian chophouse helmed by two-time James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini, offering an elevated menu and refined atmosphere. Image: Nicole Franzen
Romantic Vibes
The Optimist & Le Loup
The Optimist: 1400 Adams St., Nashville, TN 37208 • (615) 709-3156
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Le Loup: 1400 Adams St., Nashville, TN 37208 • (615) 709-3180
Hours: Thursday, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to midnight; closed Sunday through Wednesday
With brick-paved sidewalks, gorgeous historical homes, and some of the best restaurants in the city, Germantown might as well be dubbed Nashville’s most romantic neighborhood. This is partly thanks to For Fry’s The Optimist, a culinary destination that’s uber-romantic with a menu that wows. Indulge in perfectly crafted dishes of fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, a treat for us landlocked Tennesseans. Cozy up in a dimly lit booth and let the warm, inviting atmosphere transport you to a sleepy coastal town. End your evening upstairs at Le Loup, a hidden gem that serves cocktails and bites in an intimate, French salon-like atmosphere. Soak in the rich colors, eclectic works of art, and fireside seating, and marvel over a cocktail program that shines with new and old takes on “forgotten” classic cocktails. If you’re a martini fan, you’ll discover a range of options inspired by various eras and happenings dating back to 1880.
Rolf & Daughters
700 Taylor St., Nashville, TN 37208 • (615) 866-9897
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; closed Monday
Also in Germantown, acclaimed Nashville chef Philip Krajeck’s first restaurant, Rolf & Daughters, consistently ranks as one of the best in the city — and for a good reason. Not only is the food incredible, but the vibe is unparalleled. Located in a former factory building, the industrial atmosphere is softened with mellow lighting and greenery spilling from shelves. The long communal tables are inviting and perfect for sharing seasonal small plates and hearty pasta dishes.
Rolf & Daughters is a Germantown hotspot that regularly ranks among Nashville’s best. Image: Rolf & Daughters
O-Ku
81 Van Buren St., Nashville, TN 37208 • (629) 900-0021
Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; closed Monday
Another Germantown hotspot, O-Ku is a trendy sushi restaurant with all the components needed for an ideal date-night destination — low lighting, plenty of booths and two-tops, inventive cocktails, and shareable plates. Combining traditional Asian fare with a Southern approach, menu standouts include Usuzukuri (thinly-sliced salmon topped with black lava salt, wasabi stem, and truffle ponzu), Rock Shrimp (also available with Nashville Hot spice), and the Playboy Roll with crab, wagyu beef, goat cheese, and a truffle soy glaze.
Margot Cafe & Bar
1017 Woodland St., Nashville, TN 37206 • (615) 227- 4668
Hours: Wednesday, and Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; closed Monday and Tuesday
A Nashville staple, Margot Cafe & Bar is a French-inspired restaurant with Southern influences tucked in the heart of East Nashville’s Five Points. Helmed by veteran chef Margot McCormack, the seasonally-inspired dishes are made from locally-sourced ingredients and change daily, so there’s always something new. Opened in 2001, Margot Cafe & Bar is reminiscent of a French cafe with brick walls adorned with copper pots, mismatched antique plates, and a playful sense of color.
Lyra
935 W. Eastland Ave., Nashville, TN 37206 • (615) 928-8040
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; closed Sunday
Also in East Nashville, Lyra’s welcoming bar and string-lit patio provide a picturesque backdrop for sipping on a creative cocktail or mocktail while sharing Middle Eastern-inspired small plates. The dining room features hues of blues, grays, and greens, and the warmth from the visible wood-fired oven is reflected in the atmosphere and level of hospitality. Lyra offers three different takes on hummus, and trust us, you’ll be dreaming of the fluffy, house-made pita for days to come.
Get Cozy
Common Ground
4001 Charlotte Ave., Nashville, TN 37209 • (401) 523-6351
Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; closed Monday
What is a date night if not more than a chance to come together and connect? That’s precisely what Common Ground sets out to do. Located in Nashville’s buzzy Sylvan Heights neighborhood, the new bar and restaurant is meant to be, as echoed in its name, a connecting point where folks can come together and share dishes, drinks, and ideas. Enjoy approachable, seasonal menu options and inventive craft cocktails in a hip-casual atmosphere.
A new addition to Nashville’s Sylvan Heights neighborhood, Common Ground offers a place to connect over a laid-back, unfussy dinner or cocktails. Image: Sean McGee
City House
1222 4th Ave. N., Nashville, TN 37208 • (615) 736-5838
Hours: Monday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Wednesday through Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; closed Tuesday
Is there anything cozier than nestling up to the bar with the one you love, a glass of wine on one side and a wood-fired pizza split between the two of you on the other? We think not. City House is a tried-and-true Nashville staple, where chef Tandy Wilson has been serving up Italian-inspired pizzas, plates, and pasta since 2007. This is one you’ll want to go back to again and again.
City House brings all the cozy vibes with vaulted ceilings, brick fireplaces, and a menu filled with comforting pasta and pizzas. Image: Andrea Behrends
answer.
132 46th Ave. N., Nashville, TN 37209 • (615) 942-0866
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.; closed Sunday
Comfort is at the heart of this neighborhood restaurant and bar in Sylvan Park — it’s an ideal spot to gather for cocktails, dinner, and conversation. The approachable, globally-inspired menu is hyper-seasonal and ever-evolving. If the weather permits, try to snag a seat on the patio for a coveted sunset view.
Located in the charming Sylvan Park area, answer. is a neighborhood restaurant with friendly hospitality, shareable plates, and bright cocktails. Image: answer.
Miel
343 53rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37209 • (615) 298-3663
Hours: Tuesday and Wednesday, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
A longtime favorite with delicious French-inspired cuisine, kind service, and a passion for locally and sustainably sourced ingredients. It’s a delight to actually hear your dinner date as the restaurant is not loud. The parking is free and easy, which is a definite bonus! Not only does a meal at Miel make for a great date, but their events and special dinners are ones to keep up with for unique opportunities. Follow Miel on Instagram to stay up with what is going on!
Once Upon a Time in France
1102 Gallatin Ave., Nashville, TN 37206 • (615) 649-8284
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.; closed Sunday and Monday
Francophiles, rejoice! This East Nashville hideaway will transport you to a friendly neighborhood bistro à la 1920s Paris. French family-owned and operated, Once Upon a Time in France offers authentic cuisine, over 75 French wines, and delicious cocktails. Like any corner bistro in Paris, the tiny restaurant is meant to be a place where you drop in — it doesn’t accept reservations.
Chauhan Ale & Masala House
123 12th Ave. N., Nashville, TN 37203 • (615) 242-8426
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Bold colors and flavors await at Chauhan Ale & Masala, the flagship restaurant from Food Network star Chef Maneet Chauhan. Located in the North Gulch, the vibrant eatery serves creative Indian cuisine with hints of Southern flair and bright, refreshing cocktails. The dark atmosphere is brightened up with jewel tones and rich textures.
Two Ten Jack
1900 Eastland Ave. Suite 105, Nashville, TN 37206 • (615) 454-2731
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; closed Sunday
Ramen on the first date? Sure, why not? Head to Two Ten Jack, the moody Japanese-inspired neighborhood pub serving up some of the city’s best ramen and Asian-inspired small plates. Complemented by an unexpectedly effervescent cocktail list, the menu features Japanese comfort food that will warm you up from the inside out.
Keeping it Casual
Pinewood Social
33 Peabody St., Nashville, TN 37210 • (615) 751-8111
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Fun is the name of the game at Pinewood Social, a sophisticated work-and-play destination for adults, complete with a coffee lounge for remote working, a craft cocktail bar, tables for dining, bowling lanes, and even a pool. Whether you come for a drink, dinner, or to bowl a few strikes, this date-night destination won’t disappoint.
Be sure to reserve a lane in advance at Pinewood Social, as reservations fill up quickly. You can order from the full food and beverage menu as you cheer each other on! Image: Pinewood Social
Assembly Food Hall at 5th + Broadway
5055 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203 • (615) 800-5395
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to midnight
You know those nights when you just can’t agree on what to eat? Thankfully, Assembly Food Hall at 5th + Broadway offers options for everyone by bringing some of Nashville’s best restaurants together under one roof. Enjoy hot chicken from Prince’s, dumplings from Steam Boys, pizza from Desano’s, and more. Plus, there’s usually a live band performing for some great (free!) entertainment.
The Pharmacy
731 Mcferrin Ave., Nashville, TN 37206 • (615) 712-9517
Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Ask any Nashvillian for a list of must-try dishes in the city, and they might mention a burger from The Pharmacy. “Medicine for the Soul,” The Pharmacy offers a selection of hand-smashed burgers and brews for every palette in a laid-back, unassuming atmosphere.
bartaco
2526 12th Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37204 • (615) 269-8226
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
A favorite for locals and visitors alike, the Nashville outpost of the hip tacos & tequila eatery brings upscale street food and a coastal vibe to the buzzy 12South neighborhood. Their fresh margaritas and tasty selection of inventive street tacos make for a fun and unfussy date night.
Dinner & A Show
House of Cards
119 3rd Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37201 • (615) 730-8326
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 6 p.m. to midnight; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to midnight; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to midnight
For a magical date night experience, head downtown to House of Cards for dinner and a performance from some of the nation’s top magicians. Located beneath the Johnny Cash Museum, guests are encouraged to explore the 10,000 square-foot space, which features rare magic collections and live entertainment all evening long. House of Cards brings together magic, classic American cuisine, and hand-crafted cocktails for a date night you won’t soon forget. Be sure to make a reservation in advance and take note of the dress code.
The Twelve Thirty Club
550 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203 • (629) 236-0001
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Located at 5th + Broad, the Supper Club at The Twelve Thirty Club offers a swanky dining experience, a vast menu (of seafood, steak, and Southern favorites), and live performances from some of Nashville’s best local musicians. Inspired by clubs of the 19th century, the sprawling space’s plush velvet banquettes and chairs, candlelit tables, and multiple bars set the scene for a sophisticated night on the town.
Inspired by swanky old-school clubs of days gone by, head to The Twelve Thirty Club for a memorable dinner, cocktails, and live music. Image: The Twelve Thirty Club
The Electric Jane
1301 Division St., Nashville, TN 37203 • (615) 964-7175
Hours: Wednesday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Thursday, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to midnight; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; closed Monday and Tuesday
The Electric Jane is a distinctive dining and live entertainment concept situated between Music Row and The Gulch. It boasts globally-inspired fare, craft cocktails, and an eclectic array of live entertainment spanning all genres. The menu features shareable small plates like charcuterie, oysters, and ceviche, as well as larger entrées and desserts, but the whimsical cocktails aren’t to be missed. An espresso martini topped with a cannoli?! Yes, please!
Star Rover Sound
1400 Adams St., Nashville, TN 37208 • (615) 709-3158
Hours: Thursday through Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; closed Sunday through Wednesday
Star Rover Sound is a nostalgic listening room and restaurant concept from the team behind The Optimist and Le Loup. Adjacent to The Optimist, Star Rover Sound offers tacos, tequila, and live music in a vintage honky tonk-inspired space, complete with a live recording studio and plenty of country and blues vibes. Grab a margarita from the neon-lit bar, slide into one of the vinyl booths, kick back, and enjoy the show.
Enjoy your dining adventures!
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