Nashville Restaurants Gain New Italian, Cocktail, Fast Casual Options

Nashville’s food scene has never been more vibrant, extending its culinary boundary with the arrival of new Italian, cocktail, and fast-casual dining options. From vintage diners unveiling new cocktail menus to the opening of both authentic Italian and upscale sushi restaurants, April proved to be an eventful month for food enthusiasts.

Brown’s Diner Unveils New Cocktail Menu

One of the oldest restaurants in Nashville, Brown’s Diner, revitalized its offering with a brand new cocktail menu in April. The 97-year-old establishment, renowned for holding the oldest beer license in the city, introduced an exciting mix of signature cocktails such as bushwhackers, screwdrivers, and margaritas. The menu also features classic recipes like Tom Collins and Old Fashioned, and some novel additions such as “The Goldfish” and “Derby”.

Rodney Scott Introduces a Barbecue Spot at Chief’s

The revered barbecuing icon, Rodney Scott, graced Nashville with his culinary presence through the opening of Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ at Chief’s. This marks the fourth state to host Scott’s ventures, an exciting addition to Tennessee’s flourishing barbecue scene.

Daddy’s Dogs Expands

Responding to the overwhelming call of their fanbase, the gourmet hot dog connoisseurs, Daddy’s Dogs, expanded their operations to the Williamson County in April. This well-loved hot dog stand is planning another extension into the Madison area later this year.

Belle Meade Welcomes DeLuca

Belle Meade opened its arms to the authentic Italian flavors of DeLuca, a traditional Italian restaurant by Chef Rosario DeLuca. The restaurant opened its doors on April 30 in the former Porta Via space. The establishment promises Italian dishes just as the Chef grew up eating them and is unapologetically non-Americanized.

Porta Via Bids Farewell

After serving the Nashville community for many years, Porta Via, an Italian restaurant on White Bridge Road, closed its doors on April 7. The cherished restaurant expressed a mix of joy and sadness at its closure, citing health concerns. Their closure, however, has paved the way for DeLuca’s arrival.

Other Noteworthy Announcements

Other upcoming culinary ventures in Nashville include another Italian restaurant at the Nashville Yards, a reopening of the southern cooking gem, Cal’s Country Kitchen, and the opening of an upscale sushi restaurant, Experience Zuzu.