The Marsh House Turns 10!

The Marsh House inside the Thompson Hotel turns 10! This anniversary makes it one of the established restaurants in town, and certainly one that has weathered the turbulent hospitality times of Nashville. And it’s as good as ever.

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. Owned and operated by two New Orleans natives, Emery Whalen and Chef Brian Landry, they know cajun and creole food. And seafood. 

Their Shrimp Toast and Shrimp and Grits are bar none, the best in town. They  have an extensive oyster selection, including raw, grilled and smoked as well as a selection of seafood towers. The gumbo is stellar. 

After a dozen raw oysters – buttery Prince Edward Islands with just the right bit of brine – Sylus, our attentive yet laid back server,  brought us the kale caesar salad and the grilled octopus. The former was piled atop the plate, far more than even two hungry Edible editors could even eat, but was packed with so much flavor along with the cauliflower, focaccia and parmesan, we certainly did our best. The grilled octopus, combined with a cherry mole, soubise, castelvetrano olives, and marcona almonds, packs a flavorful punch that is simply extraordinary.  

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 doused in BBQ goodness.  

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.