Where We're Eating Now (Jan/Feb 2023)

As 2023 begins, are you looking for somewhere new to eat in Nashville? Here are our recommendations.

Ricey and Co.
East Nashville Pop Up

A Laotian chef is slinging some of the best sushi in town at Love & Exile Bar on Monday nights. You’ll also find him (@ohsoricey on Instagram) at Richland Park and East Nashville Farmers Markets.

Bill's Sandwich Palace
East Nashville

Taking over the stalwart Sweet 16th Bakery (that’s closing shop after 18 years) in East Nashville, BSP has been the unofficial sandwich provider of The Mind of a Chef since their conception. We're so happy to see the team killing it and growing and lucky to have them on the east side. Check out our cover story on them, "The Earl of Sandwich."

Common Ground
Sylvan Park

On the corner of Charlotte and 40th (previously Chaatable), this minimal retro place with diner-ish vibes is serving some good food. Order the Whipped Boursin with the house-made bread and the mushroom bowl: a vessel of mushroom broth, shrooms and a poached egg for dipping your bread. Shareable plates with a healthy, light touch are perfect for the New Year. Oh yeah, and the bartenders rock.

Gully Boyz
East Nashville

The friendship of a Pakistani and an Indian (and their similar childhoods playing in “gullies”) spawned this fast casual restaurant serving Southeastern food from both countries. It’s Chipotle-style service where you build your bowl from rice, curries and toppings accompanied by drinks (mango lassi and raspberry bubble smoothie) made in house. This place has staying power for sure. Great for lunch and take out.

Denim
The Joseph, Downtown

New chef Matthew Scully is cooking up seriously good food, a Rueben (even we liked), Duck Confit flatbread, a creamy artichoke dip loaded with garlic, and a genius riff on the Caprese salad with persimmons and burrata. Food as dreamy as the cabanas.

Hathorne
Sylvan Park
To draw more weekday customers, this cozy refurbished church on Charlotte started Tuesday Burger Night. We tried the Fried Pickle and Slaw Smashburger which was delish, but all of the burgers sound divine. Served on a Brioche bun with Bear Creek beef and Giffords bacon. Yesss!

MIMO
Four Seasons, Downtown

Tucked into the bottom floor of the New Four Seasons Hotel with an “almost” view of the river, this airy bright restaurant is luxury at its best. Grab a seat in one of the comfy banquettes and watch the peaceful kitchen in action. Get the Porcini Mushroom Soup poured tableside over toasted buckwheat and button mushrooms as well as the Cacio e Pepe dotted with buttery shrimp.