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 (1357)

$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

Amy

Dined 5 days ago

I booked an Igloo experience with a few of my friends. From beginning to end, it was fantastic! The Igloo included a space heater to adjust to your temperature preference, a “faux” fireplace for ambience, a Bluetooth speaker to connect your phone to, as well as cozy blankets! The cocktails and food were wonderful and the service was impeccable! Very attentive wait staff! Highly recommended!

Discover more

4.4

4.4 (4888)

$50 and over

Steakhouse

Downtown

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

MichaelVIP

Dined 2 days ago

This place is now a regular for us whenever staying downtown Nashville. Always great service, great food and just a great time wherever we go. Even in these busy holiday seasons, food was served quickly but we were encouraged to sit back, take our time and enjoy the experience. We did. See you next time.

Giovanni's Ristorante - Mid Town

4.8

4.8 (1659)

$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

Sherri

Dined 1 day ago

Giovanni's is one of our favorite's in Nashville but our experience last evening was even better than usual. The calamari & meatballs to start were the perfect starter with THE best marinara sauce. The saffron risotto with scallops was luscious with the perfect amount of saffron. Lasagna & pappardelle pasta is always fantastic and did not disappoint this time. Our server, Kevin, was knowledgable and funny and recommended the perfect wine to go with our meal. I don't know the name of the maitre d but he is excellent at what he does and makes us feel welcome every time we dine there.

Discover more

Tagliatelle alla Bolognese

Trattoria Il Mulino - Nashville

4.7

4.7 (3595)

$50 and over

Italian

Downtown

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

Tim

Dined 2 days ago

The food was delicious. Every course was prepared as ordered and the tastes blended well with each dish. The service was outstanding.

Discover more

Maggiano's - Nashville

4.6

4.6 (7198)

$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

Patrick

Dined 1 day ago

Great food fantastic decor. Personnel was courtesy and prompth to our wants and request.

Ruth's Chris Steak House - Nashville

4.6

4.6 (2730)

$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

LindaVIP

Dined 3 days ago

Loved our dinner. Loved our waiter. Ambiance was good but initially placed by the door and there was a definite breeze. However, they moved us promptly and with willingness to please. Loved the staff. Food was excellent and perfectly prepared.

Discover more