The Optimist - Nashville

The Optimist - Nashville reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Review summary

1. E

   Emily VIP

   San Francisco25 reviews

   3.0

   Dined 1 day ago

   1. Overall 3
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 2
   4. Ambience 3

   We were seated about 10 minutes after our reservation time in the bar area. We had selected standard seating. There’s a large step up to the banquette side of these bar tables, which we were not warned about. After my husband slipped and hit his shin the hostess mentioned she usually warns people. The table next to us said the same thing happened to them. When we ordered oysters we had to ask for crackers and were told “I don’t usually bring those out unless there’s dip” however the menu clearly states at the bottom that crackers are served with the oysters. When we asked to split the soup it was brought out in one dish. I asked “does your kitchen refuse to split items” to which our server said that they only offer cups of soup in the winter and only offer bowls in the summer… I would love to come to your yearly cup smashing party where you remove that size vessel from your kitchen.
   

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2. A

   Arijit

   New York City1 review

   5.0

   Dined 2 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Great ambience, excellent service, excellent food.
   

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3. O

   Ozi

   Houston1 review

   5.0

   Dined 3 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Visited The Optimist for date night and had a pleasant experience! Short drive from downtown. Casual and family friendly environment that is great for all occasions!
   

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4. F

   Fernel

   Puerto Vallarta1 review

   5.0

   Dined 4 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   We celebrated our anniversary at The Optimist, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. The food was absolutely incredible—fresh, creative, and full of flavor—but what truly made the night unforgettable was the way we were treated. A special thank you to Amy, our server, who went above and beyond. Her knowledge of the menu and genuine enthusiasm made the experience feel so personal and celebratory. She took the time to make sure every detail was just right and added such a special touch to our evening. We left not just full, but completely delighted. The Optimist made our anniversary one to remember!
   

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5. D

   David VIP

   Los Angeles48 reviews

   2.0

   Dined 5 days ago

   1. Overall 2
   2. Food 1
   3. Service 3
   4. Ambience 2

   Inconsistent temperatures on supposed high end restaurant. One fish came out hot, one lukewarm. Obviously no way to send back without waiting too long to get equally hot food. Asparagus wilted. Disappointing experience. Not going back.
   

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6. C

   CaDedra

   Alabama1 review

   5.0

   Dined 7 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   100/10, highly recommend! The rolls, cocktails, appetizers, oysters, steak..I could go on!!! Amazing first time experience and will definitely be back.
   

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7. J

   Josh

   San Diego4 reviews

   5.0

   Dined 7 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 4

   Always the best experience. Don’t sleep on the Opportunities because they’re always great. I think I’ve had everything on the menu but Chard and Halibut are our favorites besides the raw-bar options. There is nothing to complain about here.
   

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8. M

   Marguerite VIP

   Nashville38 reviews

   5.0

   Dined 7 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Birthday dinner out with friends. Everyone there was super friendly. The food excellent, it is a “go to” spot for a nice evening out.
   

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9. S

   Susan

   Nashville4 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on April 25, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   The Optimist is a beautiful restaurant with delicious food. Our server, Gabriel, was attentive without being overbearing. The food was superb —we especially enjoyed the swordfish and mahi mahi.
   

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10. J

    James

    Nashville1 review

    5.0

    Dined on April 23, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5

    Food and Service were excellent. Really great experience.
    

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