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

4.7

4.7 (1373)

$30 and under

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

WendyVIP

Dined 1 day ago

Great food. Great service. We enjoyed our brunch here. Would recommend it.

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4.5

4.5 (4900)

$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

PaulVIP

Dined 2 days ago

Excellent all around! Outstanding service and experience.

Giovanni's Ristorante - Mid Town

4.8

4.8 (1678)

$31 to $50

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

Brenda

Dined 5 days ago

Top notch service and food. This was my first time visiting Giovanni’s but I will be returning.

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Tagliatelle alla Bolognese

Trattoria Il Mulino - Nashville

4.7

4.7 (3625)

$50 and over

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

Barbara

Dined 3 days ago

Il Mulino doesn’t disappoint! Dinner was great—the lasagna was huge, and the watermelon salad delightful. Service was excellent.

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Maggiano's - Nashville

4.6

4.6 (7202)

$30 and under

Italian

Belmont / Hillsboro

About the restaurant

Maggiano’s is the ideal setting for a relaxing dinner and is great for entertaining work colleagues or clients. It's among the best Italian restaurants in Nashville and has a wine list to match. Maggiano’s serves some of the best ice cream and has Goose Island beer on tap.

Top review

Rona

Dined 1 day ago

Absolutely love Maggianos! We have been eating there for years. The food is wonderful and service is always on point. Madison was a fantastic server, took very good care of us.

Ruth's Chris Steak House - Nashville

4.5

4.5 (2747)

$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

Melissa

Dined 4 days ago

My daughter and I started with delicious craft cocktails. Our server Amir was AMAZING! Started with crab cakes that were divine! I had the garlic crusted sea bass…OMG melt in your mouth delicious! The filet and lobster, wine, crème brûlée AND espresso martinis?!?! We enjoyed in so much! ❤️

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