Nashville’s Kisser Restaurant Recognized as One of America’s Best New Culinary Destinations

Nashville’s Culinary Scene Shines with New Recognition

Nashville, Tennessee – There’s always something exciting happening in Nashville, and this time, it’s our very own culinary scene stealing the spotlight! The owners of Kisser, a charming Japanese restaurant nestled in East Nashville, have just been honored as two of the best new chefs in the country. Talk about a big deal for a local eatery!

Celebrating Local Talent

Food & Wine Magazine dropped a list in September celebrating the “Best New Chefs” across the United States, and guess who made the cut? Leina Horii and Brian Lea, the talented husband-and-wife duo behind Kisser! The magazine praised their housemade udon noodles, calling them “some of the greatest in the United States.” That’s some seriously high praise!

Interestingly, Kisser is not just any restaurant; it is a homage to a traditional Japanese kissaten. Now, what’s a kissaten, you ask? Think of a cozy café where you can eat, drink, and simply unwind. Sounds inviting, right? Leina and Brian have created a space that embodies warmth and comfort, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal.

A Culinary Journey

Both Leina and Brian come from strong backgrounds in the food industry, and this is their very first restaurant together. Before launching Kisser, they honed their skills and passion, undoubtedly leading to this exciting moment. The couple opened the doors of Kisser earlier this year, and since then, they’ve been making waves in the Nashville dining scene.

Making their mark early on, Kisser was nominated in April 2024 for the Most Outstanding Restaurant award at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards, one of the most prestigious accolades in the culinary world. That nomination speaks volumes about the quality and creativity of their menu.

A Look at the Menu

Speaking of the menu, guests can expect a delightful array of small and large plates that pay tribute to traditional Japanese cuisine. With flavors that transport you straight to Japan, Kisser offers an experience that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re a fan of savory noodles or looking to explore unique dishes, there is something for everyone.

Kisser is open for breakfast and lunch on Mondays, Fridays, and weekends, making it the perfect spot to kickstart your day or take a midday break with friends or family. Their welcoming atmosphere and fantastic food create an experience that is hard to beat.

Visit Kisser

If you’re in the Nashville area or planning a visit soon, don’t miss out on Kisser. To learn more about their offerings and to check out the latest updates, you can drop by their website. It’s clear that Leina and Brian are just getting started on their culinary adventures, and we can’t wait to see what they come up with next!

So, here’s to Kisser and the incredible milestone they’ve achieved! Nashville’s food culture continues to thrive, and with talented chefs like Leina and Brian leading the charge, there are sure to be more delicious surprises in store. Cheers to great food, local talent, and a thriving culinary scene!