The Best Bars for Foodies in Nashville

by The OpenTable Team

Updated February 26, 2020

Whether you want the best steakhouse with craft beer or a quiet meal with stellar service, Nashville has something for everyone. But where are the smartest, savviest diners eating out? Welcome to Tastemaker Lists. We’ve pulled data from thousands of restaurants to find the top spots among OpenTable's most expert, seasoned diners. Here are the best bars in Nashville to get your eat on, or to just grab a beer.

Park Cafe

4.8

4.8 (1143)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Sylvan Park & Sylvan Heights

About the restaurant

For sophisticated dishes and the best bar scene, head to Sylvan Park’s Park Café. Park Café has an awesome patio space and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. The neighborhood atmosphere is comfy, and diners can watch a game at the bar. A wonderful wine list and a chic happy hour crowd confirm why critics list it among the trendy restaurants to follow in Nashville.

Top review

AlbertoAvip

Dined on Nov 21, 2023

It’s always wonderful at The Park Cafe. It’s no wonder their clientele are 90% regulars.

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Popular dish

Fig & Pig Pizza

The Palm Nashville

4.6

4.6 (4672)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

Downtown / Sobro

About the restaurant

Family-owned since 1926, The Palm is a landmark restaurant, high-end steakhouse, and city icon. Recommendations include the delicious lobster bisque that has a rich and creamy sauce. With a superb drink and wine list, it’s no wonder you need to make reservations at this popular location.

Top review

kathy21vip

Dined on Nov 23, 2023

We had a wonderful meal and service! Great Thanksgiving!

Giovanni's Ristorante - Mid Town

4.8

4.8 (1460)

$30 and under

Italian

Music Row

About the restaurant

Looking for the best Italian in Nashville? For sophisticated Italian dining, attentive service, and an excellent wine menu visit upscale Giovanni’s Ristorante. Located in Nashville’s Music Row, the restaurant resembles a Tuscan villa. For dessert, try the tiramisu or Crème Brulee and you’ll see why fans rate this an Italian gem in honky tonk town.

Top review

AlexSvip

Dined on Jan 2, 2023

Phenomenal Italian restaurant. From the service to the cuisine everything was great. It is a pricey meal but worth it if you want the classic NYC Italian meal and atmosphere. The pastas are fresh and not overly heavy. The service is white glove but not overly done. The wine list is great with a wide selection of high end bottles from Italy and the US. The restaurant is a quiet place that is great for a special occasion or a business meal. Will be back .

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Popular dish

Tiramisu

Trattoria Il Mulino - Nashville

4.6

4.6 (3226)

$30 and under

Italian

Downtown / Sobro

About the restaurant

Known for their delicious pasta dishes, yummy cocktails, and exceptional wine menu, Trattoria Il Mulino makes for a lively night out on the town. Under executive chefs Michele Mazza and Thomas Cook, guests can enjoy flavorful and fresh mushroom ravioli or tasty veal piccata. Other favorites include hearty meatballs and pesto capellini with fresh pine nuts—just be sure to save room for dessert.

Top review

TraceyO

Dined on Jan 1, 2023

Il Mulino is a beautiful venue with lovely vibes, an extensive and exquisite wine list, amazing cocktails, super service staff and out of this world dining. A++ across the board - when I’m in town, it’s a must-visit place for me…we’ll done, all! I’ll be back to see you all soon!

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Ruth's Chris Steak House - Nashville

4.5

4.5 (2481)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

Music Row

About the restaurant

For filet mignon and juicy prime rib, make a reservation at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. The chain restaurant serves up sizzling steak platters and features an award-winning wine list. The dishes taste incredible and friendly staff will provide you with an excellent dining experience. Save room for lightly sweetened bread pudding or rich cheesecake with a tasty thick crust.

Top review

Nash60vip

Dined on Jan 1, 2023

We had wonderful service and excellent food celebrating my husband’s birthday and even had our grandson who is 18mths. Our server was so kind and brought out a little food early for him. We had a great experience and will look forward to returning. Beautiful decor too.

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