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 (1368)

$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

AndreVIP

Dined 3 days ago

terrific food, great waiter, lovely ambience... a wonderful date location

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4.4

4.4 (4897)

$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

Quincy

Dined on Dec 23, 2024

We had the opportunity to enjoy our evening with friends and family in a private dining room and it was fantastic! Derek was our server and he was outstanding! Thanks for a lovely evening.

Giovanni's Ristorante - Mid Town

4.8

4.8 (1673)

$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

StephenVIP

Dined 6 days ago

Date night and Giovanni’s was an excellent choice. Food, service and ambiance was excellent. Manager came by twice to make sure everything was perfect. Live piano music was a plus to the evening.

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Tagliatelle alla Bolognese

Trattoria Il Mulino - Nashville

4.7

4.7 (3615)

$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

Jenn

Dined on Jan 1, 2025

Our first meal of the New Year was absolutely delicious! The best lasagna I’ve ever had. My husband had the Alfredo which was fantastic as well. The wine, drink and dessert selections are amazing. The service and ambience was excellent. I highly recommend an evening here.

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Maggiano's - Nashville

4.6

4.6 (7199)

$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

Nicole

Dined 4 days ago

The food was wonderful and the Signature drinks are great. Also great service!

Ruth's Chris Steak House - Nashville

4.5

4.5 (2744)

$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

KelleyVIP

Dined 2 days ago

The steaks never disappoint! Great meal with very attentive serving. Celebrated a birthday and they made him feel special.

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