Our Favorite Date Night Restaurants in Nashville
Whether you’re tryna impress a first date or rekindle the flame with your long-time sweetheart, Music City’s got some seriously romantic spots that’ll set the mood without emptying your wallet. From cozy hidden gems to swanky rooftop vibes, these spots hit all the right notes. Here’s my totally unscientific, completely biased, but absolutely reliable guide to Nashville’s best restaurants for gettin’ your romance on.
1. Henrietta Red
This Germantown gem feels like someone took a Nantucket seafood shack and gave it a Nashville makeover. The vibe here is sophisticated but chill, with this gorgeous bar area that’s perfect for sidling up next to your date. The seafood-forward menu changes with the seasons, but the wood-fired cooking and killer cocktail program stay consistently amazing.
Tip: The oyster selection is ridiculous, and sharing a platter makes for a sexy start to the evening. Also, they’ve got plenty of non-seafood options if your date ain’t into the whole ocean-dwelling thing.
2. Rolf and Daughters
Tucked away in an old factory building in Germantown, this place has been making couples fall in love over pasta for years now. The lighting is dim but not dark-enough-to-trip-over-stuff dim, and the brick walls give everything this warm, intimate feel that’ll make you wanna lean in closer to your date.
Tip: The sourdough bread with seaweed butter is legendary, and if you don’t order it, you’re doing Nashville wrong. Their homemade pasta dishes are worth every single carb.
3. Folk
East Nashville’s answer to “where should we go that feels special but not stuffy?” The pizza here ain’t your average pie—we’re talking wood-fired perfection with toppings that’ll make you question why you ever ate chain pizza. The space is bright and airy with these gorgeous plant installations that make everything feel fresh.
Tip: Split a few small plates and one of their perfect pizzas. The natural wine list is full of interesting bottles that’ll give y’all something to talk about.
4. Hathorne
Hidden in an old fellowship hall on Charlotte Avenue, this place feels like a secret only the cool kids know about. The chef does amazing things with veggies that’ll impress both your vegan girlfriend and your steak-loving boyfriend. There’s something magical about the way the space is laid out—every table feels private, even when the restaurant’s packed.
Tip: The bar program is exceptional, and starting with one of their signature cocktails sets the whole evening off right. They’re also super accommodating to dietary restrictions without makin’ it weird.
5. Locust
This ain’t your typical date night spot—it’s small, minimal, and serves the most incredible dumplings and shaved ice you’ll ever put in your mouth. The experience is intimate by default since the place only has like 20 seats. But that’s what makes it perfect for a couple who wants something different from the usual white tablecloth routine.
Tip: Order the steam dumplings, period. They’re worth every penny and minute of the wait. Also, don’t skip dessert—their shaved ice creations are mind-blowing.
6. Margot Café
This East Nashville institution in a converted service station feels like having dinner at your super sophisticated friend’s house—if your friend happened to be an incredible chef. The French-inspired menu changes daily based on what’s fresh, and the brick walls and soft lighting create this timeless atmosphere that’s perfect for anniversary celebrations.
Tip: The wine list is thoughtfully curated, and the staff knows their stuff. Ask for pairing reccomendations and they’ll hook you up.
7. Peninsula
This cozy Iberian-inspired spot in East Nashville makes you feel like you’ve been transported to a tiny restaurant in northern Spain. The small plates format is perfect for date night ’cause you can order a bunch of different things to share, which naturally creates conversation and connection.
Tip: The gin and tonic program is next-level, and they serve ’em in these gorgeous goblet glasses that make you feel fancy. Get the octopus if it’s on the menu—even if you think you don’t like octopus.
8. Audrey
If you’re looking to seriously impress someone, Sean Brock’s flagship restaurant is where to do it. Named after his grandmother, this place celebrates Appalachian cuisine in ways that’ll blow your mind. The space is gorgeous—like museum-quality gorgeous—with custom pottery and artwork that tells the story of Southern foodways.
Tip: Go for the tasting menu if you’re celebrating something special. It ain’t cheap, but the experience is unforgettable and gives y’all plenty of time to gaze into each other’s eyes between courses.
9. Bastion
The setup here is genius for date night. First, you’ve got this cool, casual bar area with amazing nachos (seriously, they’re famous). Then, hidden behind a sliding door, there’s this intimate restaurant with just a handful of tables. It feels exclusive without being pretentious, and the food is creative without being weird.
Tip: Make reservations for the restaurant side well in advance. If you can’t snag one, the bar side is still an awesome date spot with killer cocktails and those aforementioned nachos that’ll change your life.
10. The Continental
This swanky spot from Chef Sean Brock brings old-school hotel dining vibes back in the best possible way. Think tableside presentations, prime rib carts, and martinis so cold they might give you brain freeze. It’s like stepping into a time machine to when going out for dinner was A Big Deal.
Tip: Dress up a little—it’s part of the fun. The prime rib is what they’re known for, but even if you don’t eat meat, they’ve got options that’ll make you feel just as special.
Remember, the best date night restaurants ain’t just about the food—though that’s mighty important. It’s about the vibe, the service, and how the whole experience makes y’all feel. These Nashville spots have mastered the art of creating spaces where connection happens naturally, which is really what date night is all about. Well, that and trying to not get food stuck in your teeth. Good luck out there, lovebirds!
