If trying to keep up with Music City’s dining scene feels a bit like trying to ride a mechanical bull while sipping a craft cocktail—wild, fast, and slightly overwhelming—you are definitely not alone. Between established out-of-town culinary icons packing their bags for Tennessee and homegrown dreamers slinging incredible bites, our local food scene is red-hot right now.
We’ve done the heavy lifting (and heavy eating) to bring you the freshest, dreamiest, and downright delicious new spots across town. Grab your fork and let’s dive into what’s cooking!
1. Sho
Leave it to Chef Sean Brock to turn a personal obsession into our newest obsession. Known for his legendary attention to detail, Brock has teamed up with local enthusiasts Ben and MC Gambill to bring Tokyo-style pizza to Nashville. If you haven’t experienced this style before, think chewy, light crust with a delicate, smoky char that comes from precision techniques and specialized flours.
What to order: Go bold with the Country Boy—piled high with country ham, wood-fired onions, pecorino, and a rich charred onion cream. Oh, and do not skip the Caesar salad; it gets a grand finale shower of shredded katsuobushi and parmesan that will make your taste buds sing.
2. Junior
The culinary masterminds behind Folk and Rolf and Daughters (led by Chef Philip Krajeck) have graced East Nashville with a shiny new sibling spot called Junior. Tucked into a transformed former Piggly Wiggly right next to Fancypants, this mid-century modern European cafe blends classic French finesse with ripe Tennessee produce.
The Vibe: Crisp white tablecloths, sleek Art Deco accents, and a wine program curated by Billy Smith (formerly of NYC’s Four Horsemen) that features rare French bottles you’d be hard-pressed to find even in Manhattan.
3. Turkey and the Wolf Icehouse
Lured north by East Nashville’s quirky, welcoming culture, the creative minds behind New Orleans’ favorite sandwich joint have set up shop in McFerrin Park. Nestled on a cozy corner where a dog park used to be, this spot boasts year-round covered outdoor dining and laid-back community vibes.
Here’s what you need to know:
- The Classics: Beloved NOLA staples like the iconic collard melt and fried bologna sandwich made the trip up north intact.
- The Specials: Executive Chef Will Mondros keeps things fun with wild rotating dishes (lamb neck roti, anyone?).
- Bonus: Beers are half-price whenever it rains. Grab your umbrella, your pup, and a massive heirloom tomato sandwich!
4. Kase x Noko
When Noko launched its 14-course omakase concept right next door to its original East Nashville home, local foodies almost crashed the reservation system. Guided by Chef Dung “Junior” Vo, this super-intimate 14-seat dining sanctuary takes guests on an unforgettable nigiri journey.
At just $75 per person, snagging one of these seats during their three nightly seatings has officially become Nashville’s favorite competitive sport. Pro tip: Set your alarm for midnight, because reservations drop daily six weeks out!
5. Babychan
The sprawling Neuhoff development in Germantown continues its reign as a top-tier culinary hub with Babychan, the glowing follow-up from Kisser duo Leana Horii and Brian Lea. Part Japanese bakery, part cozy cafe, this chic minimalist space serves up sweet and savory wonders all day long.
Pop in for:
- Katsu sandos and fluffy egg salad sandwiches
- Curry egg tarts and delicate fruit-and-cream toast
- Warm bowls of comforting Japanese curry and thick-cut milk bread French toast
6. Mama Bread
Carb lovers, rejoice! West Coast baking royalty has arrived courtesy of Jennifer Lathem, an alum of San Francisco’s famous Tartine Bakery. Morning visits yield buttery, shatteringly crisp croissants, followed by hot loaves pulling fresh out of the oven every day right around 10:00 AM.
Grab an iced matcha latte, pick up some fresh local produce from Bloomsbury Farm inside their cute market corner, and kick back on the sunny back patio for a perfect morning reset.
7. Edgar Garcia’s Mexico City Kitchen
Proof that incredible food doesn’t require fuss, Chef Edgar Garcia has transitioned his beloved street food pop-ups into a permanent, tiny-but-mighty storefront tucked into a Gallatin Avenue strip mall (occupying the former Otaku Ramen space). Expect authentic Mexico City flavors—think velvety carnitas, charred street elote, and perfectly seasoned steak tostadas.
Pro-move: It’s a dry establishment, but you can hop over to the Coral Club next door for a cocktail and order your dinner via QR code for smooth pickup. Talk about local teamwork!
8. Maiz de la Vida
Talk about an inspiring local journey! James Beard semifinalist Chef Julio Hernandez launched his business out of his garage using a pandemic stimulus check, moved to a wildly popular food truck at Chopper Tiki, and has now opened a gorgeous full-service brick-and-mortar in The Gulch.
While you can still satisfy your late-night cravings with his viral cheesy quesabirria, the new sit-down menu dives deeper into regional Mexican delicacies, featuring hearty chilaquiles, sweet fried plantains, and massive burritos packed with flavor.
9. Pastis
Bringing a heavy sprinkle of Manhattan glamour to Wedgewood-Houston, NYC icon Pastis has officially touched down in Music City. With its iconic tiled floors and buzzing bistro energy, it’s instantly become the destination for power lunches and romantic evening dates alike.
Indulge in classic French hits like escargot, oeufs mayonnaise, and crisp steak frites. Just make sure to save room for dessert—their profiteroles arrive stuffed with vanilla ice cream and are finished with a warm pour of melted bittersweet chocolate right at your table.
10. Perenn Bakery
The bread boom continues! Husband-and-wife duo Tyler and Aubrey O’Laskey made the move from Reno, Nevada, to Middle Tennessee, bringing their beloved craft bakery concept with them. They’ve already opened two fabulous outposts: a bustling manufactory and coffee bar in Berry Hill, and a full-service cafe in Franklin.
The Franklin spot shines brightly at breakfast with fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes and Turkish eggs, before shifting effortlessly to lunch fare like smashburgers and Salade Niçoise. Keep your eyes peeled, because dinner service is on the horizon!
Got a favorite new spot we missed, or an insider tip on snagging a table? Drop a note in the comments below—and don’t forget to pass the gravy!