The Marsh House

By William Harwood / Photography By Jill Melton | August 03, 2022

Oysters are a specialty of Marsh House

Even when packed, the Marsh House – following pun intended – doesn’t feel swamped. Its ample interior allows for generous spacing and audible conversations; unlike other popular spots in town, one doesn’t have to shout inside this chicly appointed restaurant that plates inspired, seafood-centric Southern fare.

Let’s start with the starters. If you’re an oyster lover, this is your place. You can order a dozen of the house oysters, in this case, buttery Prince Edward Islands or specialty oysters off a separate menu. If you’re celebrating, get a Chambong (yep, a bong of champagne that you have to drink carefully) to wash them down. And if you're a bargain hunter, oysters are a buck a piece at happy hour from 4-7pm. Next, Sylus, our attentive yet laid back server, brought us the Kale Caesar Salad and the Grilled Octopus. The former was piled atop the plate, and although lightly dressed was packed with flavor. The octopus was gorgeous, flanked by a cherry mole, soubise, castelvetrano olives, and marcona almonds. The firm texture of the octopus with the creamy soubise, and pungent olives makes it a must order.

Photo 1: The Chambong

Photo 2: Grilled Octopus is a high point of the seafood-centric menu

Photo 3: The Kale Caesar

The mains were seared scallops and BBQ Gulf Shrimp. The first dish was delicate, the subtle flavor of the scallops enhanced by the orecchiette, snap peas, and blood orange. The second dish was an extra-napkin-needing plate of easy-to-peel giant shrimp (oxymoron notwithstanding), that packed a big, flavorful punch far above its shrimpy size. But the sleeper was the Shrimp Fried Rice. Briney, sweet, and salty, it surpasses any fried rice you will get at a Chinese joint.

For dessert, we were all about the Orange Crush, a palate-pleasing, cool concoction of orange olive oil cake, honey, basil gelée, and orange sorbet. It was the perfect way to conclude a memorable meal before moving up the world to the L.A. Jackson – the rooftop bar of the Thompson Hotel – to enjoy a cocktail and the latest view of our constantly shifting Nashville skyline.