A prominent feature of Nashville is the diverse food scene, something that has reached new heights in recent months, with the opening of an innumerable number of restaurants and chains in the city. These places offer unique cuisines and ambiances that are an exciting addition to an already prominent collection of classic institutions. While many new spots and Nashville staples are widely raved about on social media, I have compiled a list of some of the best date-night spots.
Aba
If you have recently looked into exciting new restaurants in Nashville, you are sure to have heard about the Mediterranean restaurant Aba. With locations already in Chicago and Austin, Aba’s new location outside downtown Nashville was highly anticipated, and my friends and I eagerly awaited trying it. Although it was impossible to book a reservation at first due to its initial wave of new-restaurant-hype, one can make a reservation a few days in advance. Even if it means rallying for a 9:30 p.m. CST reservation, Aba is a must-try. Upon first entering the restaurant, you will realize that the ambiance of Aba is in a league of its own. With sprawling chandeliers, elaborate decorative trees and grand staircases, the interior makes for a lovely dining experience and an even better photo opportunity. It is rare for a restaurant to have both incredible ambiance and food, but Aba delivers on both fronts. The menu truly has no skips. My friend and I loved the whipped feta and refreshing Greek salad the best, but the star of the show is the house-made frozen yogurt with olive oil and flaky sea salt.
Rolf and Daughters
Rolf and Daughters in Germantown has been a Nashville spot for over a decade, yet its ever-changing and highly creative menu amplifies the date-night experience even more. Rolf and Daughters offers an innovative twist on pasta dishes, and both the exceptional food offerings and unique meals should make this restaurant one of the top spots on your list. Rolf and Daughters also uses local and farm fresh ingredients, which makes its dishes stand out and the superior quality is recognizable, judging from the beautiful and intentional preparation of their dishes. This spot is a must-try if you love a meal that incorporates more niche combinations of food, fresh ingredients and delicious twists on classic pasta dishes!
888
If you really want to impress, 888, a Japanese restaurant located in The Gulch, offers both an incredible dining and record music listening experience — two things that work in tandem to create a date night experience that is unforgettable. The restaurant features lovely low-lighting, and an elaborate vinyl lounge that one can overlook as they sit to enjoy their meal. This restaurant is perfect for food and music lovers, as it incorporates the best of both worlds: an elaborate dinner and sushi menu, delicate desserts and teas, all while listening to an array of talented artists from the speakers that are strategically located throughout the restaurant. 888 truly captures a date-night experience that transcends a normal dinner date, and should be on everyone’s list, regardless of whether they have ever thought to combine record listening and eating sushi at the same time.
Luogo
The well-curated aesthetic of Luogo in the Gulch provides a coastal vibe to diners. With a navy blue accented interior and decorative lemon murals on the walls, you will feel like you’ve stepped into a scene straight out of the Amalfi Coast. This spot is perfect for those with allergies, especially celiac or gluten-free diners, as the waiters are well-informed about what can be made gluten-free, and will prepare your food in a separate fryer. The blend of classic Italian dishes with ingredients found in Mediterranean cuisine makes the dishes truly remarkable, both in the taste and quality of the ingredients. Those that prefer fish, meat, or classic pasta dishes will be satisfied when they come to Luogo, and the appetizers are the perfect size to share with your partner, allowing for the opportunity to try a variety of their amazing offerings while saving room for dessert
Iggy’s
There are few greater comforting meals than homemade pasta, and Iggy’s offers an amazing selection that is perfect for your next date night. You can also choose to sit up at the bar, face to face with the chefs, who will give you insight into the best meals and explain where all the local ingredients to create the dishes are sourced from, which creates a special and informative experience. With a small but intentional menu that changes with the seasons, Iggy’s offers dishes for couples excited to experiment with more unique pasta combinations like their “Little Shells” that feature sea urchin butter with yuzu and roasted seaweed, or those seeking to try the more traditional Italian dishes like their “Rigatoni Bolognese.” Iggy’s is also conveniently located walking distance from a Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream shop, which makes for the perfect “nightcap” to your lovely dinner date!
I hope this guide helps give you a few options for planning a fun dinner date or evening out with friends!
