We know that deciding where to eat with a group of friends can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Nashville is full of diverse eateries that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters taste buds. So, we’ve curated a list of our favorite restaurants to take the hassle out of deciding where to make dinner plans.

Etch

$$$ ★ 4.7
Etch’s eclectic menu incorporates innovative dishes inspired by award-winning chef Deb Paquette’s favorite regions of the world to leave a lasting impression, or etch, on every diner. After a long week of running a business and wrangling the little ones Etch provides the perfect environment for a relaxing date night. You get the upscale feel without the upscale prices. The food is amazing, and the service is quick and friendly. The Lamb Loin comes highly recommended, by far one of the best dishes on the menu. From the ginger grits to the eggplant puree with the spiced turnips combined with the smoked fig yogurt the flavor profile is amazing! Definitely worth checking out!

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Sambuca

$$ ★ 4.5
This live music venue should definitely be on one of your top places to check out. With nightly live music ranging from classic and southern rock, pop and the top 40 there is something for everyone. Enjoy the grazing board at the bar or entertain a larger party in their dining room sipping on their house blueberry margarita. Regardless of where you choose to enjoy your experience, you’ll have access to a full American cuisine menu with cultural influences and don’t forget… the cocktail menu. From the atmosphere, to the food and cocktail menu I am sure everyone in your party will find just what they’re looking for here.

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The Southern

$$$ ★ 4.5
Featuring a state-of-the-art, shuck-to-order oyster bar, a real wood-fired grill, locally grown produce, deliciously tender meats and directly sourced, sustainable seafood, The Southern combines indigenous flavors with exotic ingredients to offer an authentically southern experience with a twist. The Southern’s cuisine brings a southern sensibility to time-honored dishes from around the world. With influences from the Gulf Coast to the Caribbean; from Nova Scotia to North Carolina, the menu at The Southern is truly “south of somewhere.”

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The Farmhouse

$$ ★ 4.3
From farm to table The Farmhouse specializes in farm fresh meals. Everything here is made from scratch or harvested from local farms. Upon entering The Farmhouse, you immediately feel that cozy at home feeling. Along with spectacular dishes they also feature a full cocktail bar along with wines and beers that reflect Chef Tray’s approach to cooking. Be sure to get there Monday-Friday to take advantage of the happy hour. With drink specials, bar snacks and highlights from the dinner menu this is one happy hour you won’t want to miss.

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Trattoria Il Mulino

$$ ★ 4.4
Trattoria Il Mulino, from the iconic New York-based Il Mulino, is not your typical Italian restaurant. Trattoria Il Mulino brings an energizing Italian fine-dining experience to Nashville’s budding restaurant scene. Everything here is always fresh, locally sourced and truly authentic. If you love Italian wines this place is for you! Il Mulino offers an extensive wine list, both domestic and imported wines, from Italy. Also, with their craft cocktails and beer you could understand why this is a New York favorite. The upscale casual environment makes this a “gotta hit spot” for you and your friends.

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Black Rabbit

$$ ★ 4.5
If you love history and older architecture, then you have to check out this speakeasy vibe restaurant. Black Rabbit is housed in a historic building dating back to the 1890’s. The space was once the law offices of Frank Ragano, legal counsel for Jimmy Hoffa and other notable figures of mafia notoriety. Snack on the delicious root vegetable hummus and take in the intriguing history showing off 16-foot ceilings, exposed brick and original hardwood flooring. Whether you’re here for food, cocktails or history. You’re sure to have a great time.

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Skulls Rainbow Room

$$ ★ 4.7
This Jazz lounge offers an award-winning American cuisine menu with coastal influences. Skulls Rainbow Room is one of the oldest establishments in Nashville. Originally opening 1948… Rainbow Room has become a staple for dining experiences in Nashville. They are also very well known for their bar program making Skulls the “go-to” cocktail spot in the music city. From their signature cocktail Rainbow Room to their classic cocktails, you’ll definitely find something to wet your whistle. Also, a few times throughout the month they host late night burlesque shows. Be sure to check their website for exact dates and times.

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Makeready Libations & Liberation

$$ ★ 4.3
“Work like a dog. Drink like a fish” is the quote Makeready lives by and honestly that tells you everything you need to know. Makeready serves as a breakroom and beer hall for ladies and gents in need of a superb meal? Grab the chicken fried duck. A nice cold one? Sip on a cold Yazoo. Located on the ground floor of Noelle, Makeready offers a seasonal approach to American tavern cuisine.

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The Green Pheasant

$$ ★ 4.5
In the style of a Japanese dining bar, The Green Pheasant is a pleasant infusion of Japanese cuisine and Nashville’s own southern cuisine. The chef here has exceeded our expectations of such a restaurant by carefully selecting the perfect small plates that pair well with sake and whiskey, both staples in their areas. What really sets The Green Pheasant apart other than the obvious is their support for the creatives in their community. Upon entering you will find furniture, art installations, lighting, and more, all handcrafted by Nashville’s own. Which contributes to the overall atmosphere that guests love!

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Lockeland Table

$$$ ★ 4.7
Lockeland Table feels like you’re at a dinner party at a friend’s house. The food, though, is far beyond anything you’d expect any of your friends to prepare at home. Lockeland cooks up fabulous, Southern-inspired American cuisine along with excellent wood-fired pizza and the “cool neighborhood vibe” is fostered by passionate staffers who turn the room into a community party. Get here to eat like a local while giving back to the community.

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