Nashville’s Growing Dining Scene

One thing about Nashville is that there is always something new happening. Whether it's a new restaurant, coffee shop, or retail store, there's always something new popping up around the city.

We're seeing more restaurants and hospitality groups from cities like New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and beyond make their way to Music City. Some are familiar names that have been around for years in other cities, while others are concepts that are completely new to Nashville.

I'll always have a soft spot for locally owned businesses and the places that give Nashville its character. It's hard not to feel sad when longtime local businesses close their doors, especially as the city continues to change. I do my best to support local whenever I can, but I also think there's something exciting about seeing what new restaurants and stores are coming to town. With that said, here's a look at some of the restaurants, bars, and retail names that have made their way to Nashville or are on their way!

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Pastis

The French restaurant originally opened in New York's Meatpacking District. It made its way to Nashville in summer of 2025 in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood. This is one of my personal favorite places for lunch or brunch and I love the patio!

Aba

This restaurant concept started in Chicago. It is also located in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood. This Mediterranean restaurant is known for its shareable plates, hummus, and beautiful atmosphere. It's one of those places that’s perfect for a group so you can try a little bit of everything.

Alla Vita

Alla Vita also started in Chicago. This restaurant features handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and classic Italian dishes. If you're someone who loves a good pasta dinner, this is one to add to your list. The Ricotta dumplings were my personal favorite.

Craig's

A Los Angeles favorite made its way to the Gulch! Known for its elevated American comfort food, classic dishes, and celebrity clientele, the restaurant has built quite a reputation in West Hollywood. Some of the fan favorites are pigs in a blanket, chicken parmesan, and honey truffle chicken. I enjoyed this spot, but in my opinion seemed over priced.

Federales Tacos & Tequila

Federales brought its tacos, tequila, and lively atmosphere from Chicago to The Gulch in 2025. Known for its margaritas and social atmosphere, it's another restaurant that adds something different to the neighborhood. The parking here is very limited.

PopUp Bagels

The bagel concept from Connecticut opened in The Gulch in 2026! Their bagels are not sliced in half, toasted, or built into sandwiches. Instead, they are handed out hot straight from the oven. Unfortunately, you have to purchase bagels in 3, 6, or 12, so it’s not ideal for one person. They are known for doing special collaborations with artists, celebrities, and brands which makes it a perfect addition to Music City!

sweetgreen

For anyone looking for a quick lunch or a fresh salad, sweetgreen is one of my favorite lunch spots. This concept is originally from Washington, D.C. and it opened in The Gulch this year. My personal favorite is the Chicken Caesar Wrap.

bartaco

While bartaco isn't exactly new to Nashville, it's a great example of a restaurant that has become a familiar part of the city over the years. With locations in 12 South and East Nashville, it's been a favorite spot for nearly 10 years.

Barcelona Wine Bar

Another name that has been part of Nashville's dining scene for years is Barcelona Wine Bar. Located in Edgehill, the Spanish-inspired restaurant is known for its tapas, wine selection, and lively atmosphere. My personal favorites are the croquetas and the patatas bravas!

Au Cheval

This Chicago concept just opened in the 12 South neighborhood this month. It's best known for it's burger. Since it just opened, it's very busy. I was able to walk in and get a spot at the bar!

The Henry

This restaurant just opened in the 12 South neighborhood in 2024. It is known for American food, cocktails, and an inviting atmosphere. They have locations in 7 states and started in Arizona.

Retail Space

As someone who works in retail, I am always paying close attention to what's happening in the shopping scene. We're seeing many of the same changes in retail as we are in restaurants. Over the last few years, Nashville has continued to attract larger brands, while some of the smaller boutiques have closed their doors.

We're seeing more recognizable names expand throughout the city. For example, Anthropologie has been in Green Hills for years, but they've also opened a store in The Gulch, moved to a new Franklin location, and are set to open another in 12 South. Some other newer additions include Boden, Favorite Daughter, Sézane, and Loeffler Randall. We've also seen some luxury brands make their way to Wedgewood-Houston, including Hermès, Brunello Cucinelli, Zimmermann, and Staud.

Growing up in a small town, shopping options were limited, and we would make special trips once or twice a year to Atlanta or Nashville. It seems normal now, but I even appreciate having stores like Nordstrom, Aritzia, and Zara close by.

At the same time, I don't want to see the small boutiques disappear. There's something special about walking into a locally owned shop and getting to know the people behind the business. Those are the places that make shopping in a city feel personal. I think there's room for both, and I hope Nashville continues to make space for independent retailers alongside the larger brands moving in.

Looking Ahead

With so much attention on what's opening next, I think it's also worth remembering the places that have been here for years.

Restaurants like bartaco and Barcelona Wine Bar may not have originated in Nashville, but they've become familiar favorites for locals over the better part of a decade. They're great examples of how a restaurant can come from somewhere else and still find a place in the community. That's what I love about living here. There's always something new to try, but there are also places that become part of your own Nashville routine. I'll always encourage friends visiting to experience the locally owned restaurants, boutiques, coffee shops, and businesses that make this city special. I also won't pretend I'm not excited when I hear about a new restaurant opening or another favorite retail brand coming to town.

I think we can appreciate the growth, enjoy the new additions, and still make an effort to support the local businesses that give Nashville its personality. I hope we never lose sight of the things that made us fall in love with it in the first place.