Discovering Fancypants: A Whimsical Vegetarian Delight in Nashville
Welcome to Nashville, where the culinary scene is always buzzing with creativity and flavor! Recently, we stumbled upon a unique spot that’s flipping the script on fine dining, and it’s nothing short of amazing. Enter Fancypants, a high-end, vegetarian restaurant nestled in the spirit of 1970’s kitsch, located in what was once a Piggly Wiggly store on the ever-evolving Dickerson Pike.
Flipping Tradition on Its Head
The masterminds behind this funky eatery are Bryan Lee Weaver, Jake Mogelson, and Michael Shemtov. They decided that it was high time to replace the stuffy atmosphere of classic fine dining with a more playful and vibrant experience. Fancypants embraces what they call “Honest to Goodness Hospitality,” which invites diners to enjoy a fun, flavorful journey centered around plant-based dishes.
Pick Your Adventure
At Fancypants, selecting your meal is part of the adventure! Guests can choose three options from a rotating prix-fixe menu made up of nine creative dishes. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there’s also a Bonus Menu filled with delightful add-ons. Everything here is designed to surprise and please, starting from the moment you walk in.
A Toast to Flavor
Kick off your experience with the signature welcome cocktail known as the “Booze-Amuse.” It’s a refreshing mix of Cava infused with lemon, bitters, and a dash of house-made hibiscus syrup. Sip it as you walk through a shimmering gold fringe curtain that leads you to the main dining area, where the eclectic décor sings the ‘70s vibe with its vibrant reds, oranges, and browns.
The Menu: A Vegetable Wonderland
Once seated, you might want to nibble on some togarashi-spiced cashews as you browse the menu. Beverage Director David Norris has created a selection of cocktails and mocktails that are just as fun as the dishes. Try the “Romper” for an espresso martini twist or the “Overalls,” which is a creative take on the classic Old Fashioned.
Chef de cuisine Joshua Homacki leads the way with dishes bursting with fresh vegetables. It’s a mix of textures and flavors that keeps each bite interesting. Each grid section of the menu encourages you to explore and share as you please!
Culinary Highlights
The menu shifts with the seasons, which means you’ll always find something new. During our visit, highlights included a stunning Grilled Eggplant dish topped with wild plum kimchi, and a clever take on lasagna using layers of turnip slices instead of pasta.
Don’t miss the Grilled Lion’s Mane Mushroom, presented beautifully in a rich vegetable demi-glace over creamy potato purée. It’s a hearty dish that will satisfy even the most ardent meat lovers! For something innovative, try the Chicken-Fried Cauliflower, nestled in a delightful potato crust with coconut gravy, guaranteed to surprise your palate.
Sweet Endings
As your meal winds to a close, indulge in desserts concocted by Executive Pastry Chef Katie Fair. Popular picks include a luscious fresh fruit tart featuring vegan custard and a seasonal birthday cheesecake that bursts with joy, complete with colorful sprinkles on a sugar cookie crust.
Warm, Welcoming Service
Throughout the evening, you’ll notice the attentive and friendly service that makes you feel right at home. The staff genuinely cares about your experience, engaging you with warmth and expertise as they serve each course and drink.
So, if you’re looking to treat yourself to some magnificent vegetable-forward fare presented in a fun and lively atmosphere, head on over to Fancypants. It’s a dining adventure that is bound to spark joy and delight in every sense!
Location: 921 Dickerson Pike, Nashville
Contact: 615-964-7917
