I get asked all the time where to eat in Nashville. And let me tell you—this question absolutely paralyzes me. Not because there aren’t great options. Oh no, sweet angel, quite the opposite. There are too many amazing spots, and narrowing it down feels like choosing a favorite cheese (impossible, but sharp cheddar and I have a deep connection).

But listen, I hear you, and I won’t leave you hanging. So, here’s a list of some of my absolute go-to restaurants in Nashville right now. Save this for your next dinner date, birthday bash, or “just because” treat-yourself meal.

My Current Faves (in no particular order because that would be cruel)

• Locust — If you haven’t had their dumplings yet, what are you even doing? It’s a vibe, it’s an experience, and you will think about it for weeks afterward.

• Rolf & Daughters — Pasta. Wine. The kind of cozy, candlelit ambiance that makes you want to stay forever. Their sourdough & seaweed butter, roasted lemon chicken, and rigatoni pasta are basically a Nashville legend at this point.

• Folk — If you love pizza (duh) and natural wine, this is your place. Casual yet so good. Their clam pizza? Life-changing.

• The Rose Pony — Perfect for a leisurely brunch, post-shopping cocktails, or a casual-but-chic dinner. Their burger is a sleeper hit, and the interiors? Gorgeous.
• Drusie & Darr — A little fancy, a lot delicious. It’s by Jean-Georges, so you know it’s top-tier. Go for a celebration or when you just feel like being fabulous. Order the egg toast with caviar, crispy sushi, black truffle pizza, salmon, and the salted caramel popcorn sundae. Trust me.

• Iberian Pig — The patatas bravas, empanadas, broccolini, piqiullo relleno, and croquetas de iberico. the tapas, the cheese. If you’re a Spanish food girly (or guy), this place will steal your heart.

• Pelato — Italian-inspired dishes with a Southern twist. It’s new, it’s chic, and the flavors are unreal. What to order: house-made mozzarella, burnt broccoli, chicken parmesan, and the radiatori vodka.

And because I know you’re thinking it—YES, I missed some. But don’t worry, I’ll be making another list soon. Tell me your favorites, and maybe they’ll make the next cut.