Diners' Choice: Contemporary American restaurants in Nashville

OpenTable

Updated December 05, 2024

Looking for restaurants with the best overall Contemporary American cuisine in Nashville? You’re in the right place. Each month OpenTable analyses more than 400,000 new diner reviews. We sort the results by category to help you discover new favourites. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Bastion

4.9

4.9 (44)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

South Nashville

About the restaurant

Bastion is the 24-seat restaurant of James Beard Foundation Award Nominee Chef Josh Habiger. It is located in a separate area within the casual cocktail bar of the same name, and it is a part of the Wedgewood Houston neighborhood of Nashville, TN. Bastion's dining room features counter seating around the kitchen for parties of 2 as well as three tables for parties of 3 to 6. Bastion's small team serves a weekly set menu of six dinner courses featuring many dishes with a wide variety of flavors, ingredients, and inspirations. Friendly service guides you through the culinary experience, which also features wine pairings, creative cocktails, and a curated vinyl soundtrack. Come early or stay late in the hidden Little Bar, which is a private offering for guests of the restaurant.

Top review

Susan

Dined 2 days ago

Always a special night out!! Still out favorite over the years. If you are into an eclectic preparation and presentation of phenomenal flavors this is your place,

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Experience

NYE @ Bastion Goes Steakhouse

Pelican & Pig

4.9

4.9 (41)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

East Nashville

About the restaurant

Owned and operated by husband and wife team Nick & Audra Guidry, Pelican & Pig operates with playful creativity and service in mind. Drawing inspiration from places they have lived and from their many travels, in name and through the menu, the restaurant is a nod to the inspirations and influences from the past and present. By bringing a fine-casual dining service experience to a comfortable, cozy atmosphere, it is our goal to provide exceptional service through attention to details and knowledge of products and menus.

Upon entering you are greeted with a view of the completely open kitchen and wood-burning hearth. Let our staff welcome and guide you through the night with our list of craft cocktails, exceptional wine and spirit offerings and our hand-selected craft beer menu.

Top review

Kendrick

Dined 7 days ago

Ashlyn was such a great waitress and we truly enjoyed our whole experience.

The Catbird Seat

4.8

4.8 (176)

$50 and over

Contemporary American

Music Row

About the restaurant

The Catbird Seat is an intimate, chef-driven restaurant and culinary incubator that provides chefs a creative outlet in an interactive and open kitchen setting. With just 20 seats arranged around a U-shaped counter, guests are offered a front-row view of the chefs at work, crafting a 10-12 course tasting menu that evolves with the seasons.

Currently led by Chefs Tiffani Ortiz and Andy Doubrava, the menu features a dynamic selection of dishes that emphasize sustainability and innovation. Drawing on ingredients preserved from past seasons, foraged finds, and items from their larder, Ortiz and Doubrava showcase their commitment to creativity, resourcefulness, and a modern approach to sustainable cooking.

Since its opening, The Catbird Seat has received numerous accolades, including recognition as one of GQ Magazine’s Best New Restaurants, Bon Appetit’s Best New Restaurants, Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Wine Restaurants, and Opinionated About Dining’s Top 100 North American Restaurants.

Top review

ChadVIP

Dined on Dec 5, 2024

The flavor profile of all the dishes were outstanding. Service and atmosphere is very good. Highly recommend.

Red Pony Restaurant

4.8

4.8 (4625)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Franklin

About the restaurant

Since it opening in 2006, Red Pony Restaurant has impressed guests by staying true to a mission focused on cuisine and service.
Chef owned and operated, Red Pony changes its menu about six times a year with the intention of keeping ingredients the season’s freshest and the variety of dishes dynamic.
While a great deal of the menu pays homage to the Sophisticated Southern foods Chef Jason McConnell grew up on, you will also see a reflection of his travels, that drive his creativity.
It is our belief that food is something to be celebrated. We also believe that experience is a huge part of dining. Whether it be enjoying a crafted cocktail at one of our bars or enjoying dinner at the table, we want each guest to be seamlessly guided through their time at Red Pony Restaurant.
We love our community and we love food.

Top review

William

Dined 3 days ago

Just dined at Red Pony last night, and it was awesome. It was a little loud, but we were seated close to the bar, and my hearing is a problem wherever we go, so it wasn't unusual. Our server was super attentive, very knowledgeable, and exceedingly polite. I've got to say something about the hog belly Brussels appetizer. It was the most wonderful menu item ever! We will be back often if for no other reason but that. So good!

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4.7

4.7 (8550)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Downtown

About the restaurant

Featuring an array of global flavors and decadent desserts by Chef Deb Paquette and Pastry Chef Megan Williams, Etch is located in the ground floor of the Encore tower in Nashville's SoBro district. The restaurant is equipped with two private dining rooms, a full bar and an open kitchen with bar-style seating, allowing guests to interact with the culinary team. Lunch and dinner are available Monday-Friday, as well as dinner on Saturday.

In her 13 years as Chef/Owner of Zola, Deb received accolades for Nashville's best chef and Nashville's best restaurant multiple times. Nashville restaurants are many, but Etch sets itself apart with bold flavors and colorful presentations.

The cuisine at Etch is complemented by our comprehensive wine list, featuring an extensive collection of wines from around the world. Guests can also enjoy our modern take on classic cocktails, along with a variety of eclectic beers and regional drafts.

Top review

david

Dined 3 days ago

Food was delicious and creatively crafted. Service was incredibly good - friendly, efficient, helpful. Wonderful experience.

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Experience

New Year's Eve 2024

etch - Franklin

4.7

4.7 (134)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Franklin

About the restaurant

etch is a globally-inspired restaurant by award-winning chef Deb Paquette. The original location opened its doors in 2012 in lively downtown Nashville; the second location opened in fall of 2024 in The Factory at Franklin. The modern restaurant houses two private dining rooms, a full bar, and a chef’s bar, giving guests a look into the restaurants' culinary prowess.

etch’s eclectic menu incorporates innovative dishes inspired by Deb and Executive Chef Jess Lambert's favorite regions of the world to leave a lasting impression, or etch, on every diner. A wine list with over 80 choices is available, along with high-gravity local beers and hand-crafted signature cocktails.

Desserts are prepared in-house by Pastry Chef Megan Williams, whose creations top the list for the city’s sweet confections. House-made ice creams and artfully plated desserts change seasonally, providing a revolving array of treats that will keep you coming back for more.

Top review

Grace

Dined 2 days ago

Great food and ambiance! Different than the Nashville locations, but same quality of food and staff. Loved our time here!

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Experience

New Year's Eve

Coal Town Public House

4.8

4.8 (540)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Franklin

About the restaurant

Coal Town Public House is a modern American grill located in the heart of Westhaven Town Center. Our diverse menu is comprised of elevated and unique takes on American cuisine, as well as a full service bar boasting a wide array of wine, beer and craft cocktails. The restaurant features a lush interior with high ceilings, stylish fixtures and plenty of natural light. Nestled against Magli Green, our retractable garage doors open completely to let in the sun, fresh air and views of the lake. The Public House will set the scene for you to enjoy a truly memorable dining experience with friends and family!

Reservations recommended. No take-out available.

Top review

Hilary

Dined 4 days ago

Our first time to this restaurant and wow! Atmosphere was amazing and the food was incredible! I got the shrimp and grits and it was literally the BEST shrimp & grits I’ve ever eaten. My husband got a NY strip and collard greens. He gave 5 stars as well. Our server Mat was friendly and answered all my questions and his service was fantastic. Will definitely dine here again.

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4.7

4.7 (1355)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

Sylvan Park & Sylvan Heights

About the restaurant

Park Cafe is one of West Nashville's hidden gems, serving elevated American cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for nearly twenty-two years. Chef Jeffrey Martin crafts delicious daily specials from local, high-quality ingredients. With a talented kitchen and curated service, Park Cafe is sure to provide an excellent dining experience with local flair. Gluten-free & vegetarian options are available.

Whether you're dining on our spacious, peaceful patio, at a high-top in the bar, upstairs in the bungalow, or in one of our main dining rooms, you'll be glad you chose Park Cafe for lunch, brunch or dinner. We can't wait to see you!

P.S. Looking to book a private party? Please visit us on our parties page on our website or give us a call. We can't wait to make it special!

Top review

Amy

Dined 3 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!

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4.7

4.7 (5027)

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Brentwood

About the restaurant

Mere Bulles offers superb food, outstanding service, and a beautiful setting. With a 'make it happen' attitude, our goal is always to exceed your expectations. Lunch can be in and out or a leisurely meal with important clients. Dinner is there for any special occasion or another perfect evening out.

Mere Bulles reminds you of what was once the grand manor house of Maryland Farms. In Spring and Summer, relax in our bright, cheerful Indoor Patio with its floor to ceiling windows. Surrounded by majestic old maple trees, the outdoor patio is the place to be when the weather permits. In Fall and Winter, cozy up to the fireplace for a great meal in The Living Room. We have eight inviting private dining rooms. which can be booked by phone or E-mail through our friendly and astute Events Staff. Join us for Sunday Brunch 9:30am-1:30pm.

For parties larger than 7, please call the restaurant @ 615-467-1945 or email us at info@merebulles.com

Top review

Karla

Dined 2 days ago

This is my favorite place!!! Great food, drinks and amazing people.

The Mockingbird Nashville

4.7

4.7 (3172)

$30 and under

Contemporary American

The Gulch

About the restaurant

Modern Diner. Global Fare. Delicious Fun. This is The Mockingbird. Led by talented culinary duo executive chef / partner Brian Riggenbach and front-of-house extraordinaire / partner Mikey Corona, The Mockingbird offers a menu of comfort classics with a global twist and an ambiance of art deco diner whimsy. Walls are covered in beautiful custom-made wallpaper, painted tin tiles on the ceiling, windows open to two patios as weather allows and a larger-than-life mirrored bird sculpture overlooking the dining room. And then there’s the food and drink! Munch on a Mockingburger or Mac N Cheese (aka Feeling Grate!) while sipping an Old-Fashioned-ish or a Punchin’ Bag (ask about it – they are famous!). We also love hosting group events! We have a private dining room, an upstairs dining room and an enclosed patio, all perfect for bridal showers and bachelorette parties plus business lunches and corporate dinners. Y’all come see us! **Reservation cancelation policy is strictly enforced**

Top review

Joe

Dined 1 day ago

We went last night to celebrate my daughter's engagement. We were seated immediately. The restaurant is beautiful. The atmosphere is very welcoming. The cocktails were unique and delicious. We ordered the artichoke appetizer and the arancini. Both were delicious. My wife ordered the trout, I had the short ribs, my daughter had the hangar steak and her fiance had the burger. The presentation of each course was beautiful. The food was delicious and we ate with gusto. I highly recommend this restaurant for a great food experience.

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