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USA TODAY recently released its list of Restaurants of the Year. It’s not another article, right?
No, not this time.
USA TODAY published a substantial list of 200 locally-focused lodging properties in 42 states, including The Tennessean here in Nashville. But this was different.
For the first time, the national news network has decided to tap into its extensive network of food journalists on the local scene. And what these writers, including the author of this work, came up with was quite complete.
Click here to see who made the Nashville list.
But even then, there were only 47 Restaurant of the Year slots available, so we couldn’t include all our favorites. In fact, it was a difficult choice. That’s where this list comes in.
First, the criteria: The restaurants on our national list were places we frequently recommended and took friends and family. It is known for its excellent service, cozy atmosphere, and of course, truly delicious food.
With that in mind, here are the Nashville spots you’ll want to see on the 2024 USA TODAY Restaurant of the Year list.
fork
Filip Krazek is probably best known outside of Nashville for Rolf & Daughters, but for me, it’s Folk that keeps me coming back. Thanks to perfectly puffed wood-fired pizza, this place is accessible enough to appeal to almost anyone you invite, including picky relatives and children. Perhaps it’s because of the kitchen, which knows how to make elegant, shareable vegetable plates and tried-and-true classics like chicken Milanese and arancini seem fresh and new. Guests can also enjoy a thoughtful cocktail and natural wine list. But what brings it all together in one cute little package is the feel of a real neighborhood restaurant, albeit a very stylish one.
What you need to know: Don’t skip the vegetable portion of the menu. When the weather is warm, Folk’s Patio is one of the best places in town to enjoy a quiet glass of cold rose and a snack.
where: 823 Meridian Street; Goodasfolk.com
How many have you been to?Check out USA TODAY’s 2024 Restaurants of the Year
Bastion
I love restaurants that are upscale, yet comfortable, welcoming, and somehow unpretentious, serving great food. That’s Bastion, where Josh Habiger and his staff execute an incredible and surprisingly affordable tasting menu that feels smart and restrained. Unexpected flavors like beef tartare and tamarind, shrimp and huckleberry and crab fat come together beautifully, and so do the staff at the service bar, which is a great place to sit. You’ll feel right at home.
What you need to know: This spot requires reservations. Get there early and enjoy a drink in the gorgeous little bar before dinner. If you want a more lively experience after dinner, head out to the large bar.
where: 434 Houston Street STE 110; BustyNashville.com
Our standards are;USA TODAY’s 2024 Restaurants of the Year: How the Best Restaurants List Is Determined
Kisser
I love kissers. My only complaint is that it’s only open for lunch, so I can’t go there as often as I want. But I believe there’s something about a relaxed, human moment for a chef. Because the food served at this Japanese restaurant feels like a warm hug. I think I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again. You can eat Inari here every day. So flavorful and such a comforting and satisfying pleasure. Yellowtail collars and they don’t seem to even be on the menu anymore, but I still crave them. There’s a reason this spot is on the long list of James Beard Awards for Best New Restaurant. And it’s your responsibility to know why.
What you need to know: This restaurant does not accept reservations, but you can join the waiting list. A delicious Japanese breakfast is served on weekends.
Location: 747 Douglas Ave., kisserrestaurant.com.
peninsula
This gem of a kitchen in East Nashville focuses on cuisine inspired by the Iberian Peninsula, and it knocks it out of the park every time we go. And somehow it gets better every time I go. I love the intimate space and being able to see the restaurant partners at work every time I go to the restaurant. Check out their food and drink recommendations. Chef Jake Howell is as innovative as any chef in this city, creating unusual flavors. It’s wild, as is the taco dish on my recent visit. It was covered in a black cloak of burnt onions, hiding what turned out to be a bright flavor and color underneath. I just had to dig in. And you should.
What you need to know: Don’t miss the wine and gin and tonic menu. Get ready for a couple. Also, I know it’s expensive, but if you can, try Iberian pork in the spring.
where: 1035 W Eastland Ave; PeninsulaNashville.com
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