Exciting New Restaurant Choy Opens Its Doors in Nashville

Exciting New Restaurant Choy Opens Its Doors in Nashville

Nashville is buzzing with excitement as a brand new culinary gem, Choy, has opened its doors in the vibrant North Gulch area. This modern Chinese American restaurant is the brainchild of a creative trio that has combined their passions for food, art, and hospitality into an unforgettable dining experience. After the closure of the previous establishment, Tansuo, the co-owner Moni Advani gathered with friends Nishaan Chavda and Brandon Jew to dream up something magnificent, and Choy is the result!

A Unique Atmosphere

As you step into Choy, you’re instantly transported to a dark, exotic space reminiscent of a mid-century Art Deco design. The sleek bar and dining area evoke the allure of a bygone Shanghai hideaway. The expansive red-and-black marble-topped bar features backlit arches and an eye-catching image of Basquiat’s Crown Dinosaur, all creating a visual feast while you sip one of their house cocktails. The restaurant’s atmosphere is as inviting as it is stylish, making it a perfect spot for a night out.

Cocktail Selection

Speaking of drinks, Choy offers an impressive cocktail menu crafted by consulting mixologist Abe Vucekovich. Among the eight specialties, you have to try the House of Choy, a refreshing take on the classic Singapore Sling, featuring Ford’s Gin, Benedictine, grapefruit, and cherry liqueur. If you’re feeling adventurous, give the Midnight Sting a go—this Manhattan twist stars Buffalo Trace bourbon with an array of amaros for a complex yet enjoyable sip.

A Delicious Menu

Once you find your cozy booth, you can dive into the menu curated by executive chef Brian Griffith under the guidance of the talented Brandon Jew. The menu is thoughtfully organized into sections like Starters, Noodles/Dumplings/Rice, Soup and Veggies, and Mains, with the pièce de résistance being their signature Peking Duck.

To kick things off, we couldn’t resist ordering two starters that beautifully balanced each other. One was a vibrant salad of white peaches, chrysanthemum leaves, and hazelnuts, drizzled with a fragrant osmanthus vinaigrette—a delightfully fresh beginning. In contrast, the pan-fried turnip cakes topped with shiitake mushrooms and scallops offered a warm, earthy kick with umami flavors that linger on the palate.

Nostalgic Noodles and More

For the noodle lovers among us, the Beef Chow Fun is a must-try, featuring rich, thick pasta ribbons and tender slices of wagyu in a mouthwatering brown sauce. Don’t overlook the Shrimp Fried Rice, which incorporates Gulf shrimp and Tennessee sweet corn that elevate the dish to new heights with a spicy kick from the XO butter.

Unforgettable Main Courses

The showstopper at Choy is undoubtedly the Whole Roasted Peking Duck. This dish takes time and skill to prepare, yet the end result is nothing short of spectacular. The duck, with its juicy meat and irresistibly crispy skin, comes served with a range of accompaniments that make it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

If seafood is your preference, the salt-baked trout sourced from McEwen, Tennessee, arrives impressively surrounded by salt and elegantly drizzled with a ginger-scallion sauce that enhances its natural sweetness.

A Sweet Ending

End your meal on a high note with the Sorghum Ma Lai Go, a delightful twist on the traditional sponge cake, soaked in Baijiu and topped with a light whip of unsweetened cream. This dessert beautifully balances sweetness with a dash of spirit—a true treat!

In Conclusion

Nashville has once again embraced a dining destination that promises adventure and deliciousness. Choy reflects its namesake inspiration of indulgence and prosperity, truly living up to the motto: “Sometimes Adventurous, Always Delicious.” Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, make sure to add Choy to your must-visit list!