Nashville Celebrates Two Restaurants on New York Times Best Restaurants List for 2024

Exciting News for Nashville Food Lovers!

Nashville, the city well-known for its vibrant music scene and mouthwatering cuisine, has just received some fabulous recognition! That’s right—two of our favorites have made it onto the prestigious New York Times Best Restaurants List for 2024, and we couldn’t be more excited! This annual list includes 50 restaurants from all around the United States, and we’re so proud to see that Nashville is shining brightly this year.

Nashville’s Culinary Stars

This year’s list features an exciting mix of new and long-standing eateries, and Nashville managed to snag two coveted spots—Bad Idea and Edessa. Quite the upgrade from last year, when only one restaurant from Music City made the cut! The New York Times’ Brian Gallagher explained that their team has traveled far and wide over the past 12 months, scouting for “spaces as much as places” that truly capture the culinary essence of each state.

Bad Idea: A Flavorful Journey

Let’s talk about Bad Idea first! This East Nashville gem opened its doors in 2023 and quickly captured hearts with its unique Lao menu, inspired by the background of executive chef Colby Rasavong. Having grown up in his family’s Thai restaurant, Rasavong brings a wealth of experience and cultural richness to his dishes. The way chef Rasavong stretches the boundaries of Southeast Asian cooking “to the edge of Appalachia” is something food critic Brett Anderson found remarkable.

If you’re wondering what to drink while indulging in the incredible food at Bad Idea, you’re in for a treat! The restaurant’s wine list boasts a delightful mix of “tantalizing obscurities,” affordable crowd-pleasers, and selections for the connoisseurs among us. Anderson aptly labeled the restaurant’s cheeky name as a “self-aware joke” that underlines the incredible culinary experience offered.

Edessa: A Slice of Turkish Delight

Next up is Edessa, a charming Turkish eatery located along Nashville’s Nolensville Pike. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant offers a menu that seems to have a little something for everyone. From delicious haydari to freshly made lavash and the tasty spinach-and-cheese stuffed gozleme flatbread, you’ll find every bite is a delight. But don’t just take our word for it—the lamb stew is said to be magnificent, and the spicy cig kofte leaves a lasting impression with its inscrutable flavor.

Anderson noted that visitors often find themselves gathered with friends, enjoying hearty portions together, proving that Edessa is not only about the food but also about fostering a sense of community. Located in what many are calling the “Little Kurdistan” area of Nashville, the restaurant benefits from being surrounded by the country’s largest Kurdish population.

A Gastronomic Celebration in Music City

What an amazing time for Nashville food lovers! With a rich and diverse culinary scene on display, these two restaurants highlight what makes the food culture here so special. Both Bad Idea and Edessa have proven that Nashville’s flavors are not just to be tasted but celebrated. So whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure to add these two spots to your must-try list! Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite dish.

As Nashville continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains clear: our food scene is thriving, and we can’t wait to see what culinary marvels come next.