Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown, Nashville

Italian food bars

Made for those who want the focused menu of an Italian kitchen paired with the social energy of a bar.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Culaccino Italian Restaurant + Bar image 1
Culaccino Italian Restaurant + Bar image 2
Culaccino Italian Restaurant + Bar image 3
View all

Upscale Italian restaurant with a stunning interior and sophisticated atmosphere creates a perfect setting for date nights or relaxed dinners. Bartenders craft notable espresso martinis and signature old fashioneds, adding to the lively bar vibe. Handmade pasta and fresh, flavorful dishes define the menu, making it a standout spot in downtown.

Brian at the bar delivers outstanding service and crafts the best espresso martini in the area. The bar offers a great vibe that complements the meal experience well.

Handmade pasta stands out with perfect cooking and rich sauces. Butternut squash ravioli tastes very fresh and the chicken is notably moist. An off-menu Affogato offers a unique finish.

People are saying

"The handmade pasta here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"The bar seating is great for killer old fashioneds and spot-on cocktails."

"Brian at the bar makes the best espresso martini."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated for 2 hours in the east garage.

2

Reservations are easy to make using Resy.

3

The restaurant charges a 3% fee if I pay with a credit card.

02
Villa Castrioti image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a romantic, candlelit atmosphere with live piano and acoustic music that complements conversation. Space features modern, polished design with a secret dining room and street-side booths providing views. Guests enjoy a quiet, upscale vibe ideal for relaxed evenings away from city noise.

Bar features personable bartenders like Dan and Charles who offer great suggestions and craft drinks. Service at the bar is accommodating even without reservations, with attentive servers like Blair.

Classic Italian dishes include chicken, veal, beef, fish, and pasta at reasonable prices. The Garlic & Oil spaghetti and spaghetti with olive oil stand out for hitting all the right notes.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, truly a life-changing dining experience."

"The Italian food here is so delicious, I felt like I had never eaten before."

"The food here is out of this world, truly fine dining."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Monday at 8pm.

2

Reservations are recommended for large parties or special events.

3

The restaurant sanitizes menus after each use for cleanliness.

03
Modern Love image 1
Restaurant

Stylish decor blends retro design with local art, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance. The atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly, welcoming casual meals and professional gatherings alike. A private room offers space for games or watching sports, adding to the inviting vibe.

Creative bar menu offers a variety of unique drinks. Lounge area has an amazing vibe that stands out from typical hotel bars.

Handmade pasta stands out, especially in the Beef Ragu and wild mushroom lasagna. Dishes blend comfort with creativity, like the corn-filled pasta and mushroom ravioli, offering balanced and unforgettable flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible; I cleared every plate."

"Chef Sam's Italian Food creations were outstanding and showed care."

"The drinks here are incredible, and the food is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available on Fridays, but specific items may not be offered.

2

Reservations require a credit card for a $25 per person no-show fee.

3

Free valet parking is available for diners, making access easy.

04
The Lounge at 2nd image 1

Modern bar and grill offers a laid-back atmosphere with live music and comfortable seating. It stays quiet off the beaten path near a busy area, attracting those who enjoy good tunes and relaxed vibes. The space feels inviting and clean, with occasional lively moments from talented performers.

Live music fills the space, creating a lively atmosphere. Staff pay close attention to patrons, offering attentive service. The menu features bar food favorites alongside unique items like a chicken tikka sandwich.

Pasta dishes like penne vodka, spaghetti carbonara, and linguini with chicken stand out for their care and flavor. The menu blends Italian with other cuisines, offering unique combinations alongside classic pasta.

People are saying

"The live music here is fantastic and fun."

"The bar staff here is so friendly and attentive, always keeping your drinks filled."

"I thought the Italian food here was the best I'd ever experienced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6pm with reduced price drinks.

2

The kitchen is open late for late-night dining.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other places in the area.

05
Goodfellas Pizzeria - Gulch image 1

Pizza restaurant combines classic New York style pies with a Goodfellas-themed interior featuring real photos and detailed dรฉcor. Back area hosts a speakeasy lounge with live music and a bar, creating a cozy yet lively atmosphere. The vibe mixes a cool hangout spot with a touch of vintage gangster style.

A cool speakeasy sits in the back with a bar and live music on some nights. The lounge feels cozy and happening, with a bartender named Bobby who stands out as a real asset.

Pizza features about five small rounds of mozzarella and several thin shaves of Parmesan cheese. Breadsticks stand out as affordable and delicious, with some pesto bread also very good.

People are saying

"I've never had a better tasting thin crust pizza."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and breadsticks, is delicious and affordable."

"The pizza here is delicious and reminds me of Little Italy."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is $10 and includes a slice of pizza, a side, and a drink.

2

Goodfellas Pizzeria participates in Nashville Pizza week, attracting pizza lovers.

3

Expect limited seating, which can make it crowded during peak hours.

06
Margaritaville Restaurant - Nashville image 1

Two-level American restaurant combines live music with a lively atmosphere and a sports bar upstairs showing college football games. Noise levels are high, making conversation difficult even without music. Decor mixes mother-of-pearl booths with city views, creating a casual yet energetic vibe.

Bartenders like Betty and Lainey handle busy crowds with personal attention. The bar serves delicious tacos and welcomes families later than most bars. It also draws fans for local Seahawks game viewings.

Seafood Cajun pasta stands out with shrimp and scallops delivering strong flavors. Chicken Alfredo and penne chicken Alfredo also offer rich, creamy options.

People are saying

"I experienced great food here."

"The bar staff's teamwork and kindness made the whole experience awesome."

"You have to try the Cajun seafood pasta; it's exceptional."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available upstairs with live music.

2

Validated parking is offered during special events, but may run out.

3

Expect higher prices for food and drinks compared to other local spots.

07
Ophelia's Pizza + Bar - Nashville image 1

European cafe style blends with cozy, theatrical decor and loud Italian music to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Private patio seating offers a quiet contrast to the lively indoor energy. The space feels like a unique Italian villa with quirky, unapologetically southern touches.

Bar offers a lively spot with great drinks and attentive service. Staff like Haley engage personally, creating a welcoming vibe at the bar area.

Mortadella pizza stands out as a memorable dish. The menu includes whipped ricotta, freshly baked bread, Caesar salads, pizza, spaghetti and meatballs, and meatball sandwiches. Desserts feature a tiramisu with hazelnuts and a Cannoli Sundae that is crunchy and creamy.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, is authentic and delicious."

"I thought the Caesar Salad was possibly the best I have ever had."

"The pizza here is awesome, with a perfectly crispy crust."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy times like weekends.

2

The Thanksgiving buffet is a special event offered during the holiday season.

3

The restaurant accommodates gluten allergies without issues.

08
Sinatra Bar & Lounge image 1

Steak house with swanky 50s decor and live Sinatra-style music creates a classy, inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and high-quality steaks in a setting that honors timeless elegance. Upstairs lounge offers exclusive, intimate seating despite limited space.

The bar offers a classic vibe that feels like stepping back in time. Staff provide excellent service, making it a spot for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and generously portioned."

"The ambiance for Italian food here is warm and elegant."

"The bar here is super fun and the bartender is so knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at least two weeks in advance due to high demand.

2

Restrooms are located two flights up, which may be challenging for those with disabilities.

3

Live music starts after 7:30 pm, enhancing the dining experience.

09
St.Vito Focacceria image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen and rockin' music creates a cozy, intimate vibe blending Sicilian flair and Nashville grit. Guests watch chefs prepare food up close while enjoying lively energy and sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. The setting suits both dates and groups seeking unique Italian dining.

Bar seating offers a front-row view of the kitchen, letting you watch the chef work closely. The staff and owner engage in conversation, creating a lively atmosphere, and reservations help secure these limited spots.

Focaccia stands out with spicy burrata and house-made chili oil. Sfincione focaccia pizza offers a rich, delicious flavor profile.

People are saying

"The pizza here is memorable and exceptionally delicious."

"The Italian food focaccia is delicious, soft, and airy."

"The sfincione here is thick, airy, and crisped to perfection."

Good to know

1

The pizza pricing is $15 for a slice and $45 for a whole pie.

2

A 20% service fee is automatically added to all orders.

3

Happy hour includes a focaccia and a glass of wine.

10
Craig's image 1
Restaurant

Upscale restaurant with comfortable seating and a large front bar featuring big screen TVs playing sports. Atmosphere blends lively energy downstairs with a vibe mixing casual and upscale elements, quieter than many similar places. Menu offers standout dishes like Wagyu steak and addictive bread basket, paired with a full bar serving premium cocktails.

A large front center bar features two big screen TVs showing various programs. The bar offers a full selection of drinks, including fernet and Coke, with friendly staff like the bar manager and servers enhancing the experience.

Clam pasta and bolognese stand out among the Italian dishes. Chicken parmesan and vodka pasta also feature alongside fresh salads like the chopped salad.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are rockstars and make top-notch drinks."

"The service here is so kind and attentive."

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the calamari."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure availability, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant has a dress code; business casual attire is preferred.

3

Expect higher prices compared to other local dining options.

11
Drusie & Darr by Jean-Georges image 1

Restaurant occupies a beautifully renovated basement space with historic decor and intimate bar setting. Atmosphere feels relaxed yet lively, with a high noise level similar to a bar. Guests often enjoy exceptional cocktails and unique dishes in a setting that blends elegance with casual energy.

A side bar offers a more intimate setting with full service dining and an emphasis on bourbon. The extensive wine list complements the excellent service and creates a perfect romantic hideaway.

Rigatoni from grandmaโ€™s recipe stands out with rich flavor. Unique dishes like mushroom pizza and sea bass offer a fresh take on Italian classics.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have incredible food, especially the shrimp salad."

"The food at the bar was exceptional, especially the beef tartare."

"The Italian food here is incredible, especially the warm shrimp salad."

Good to know

1

Valet service costs $30, despite claims of being complimentary.

2

Expect to pay $9 per glass of water for large groups.

3

Brunch is offered on Saturdays with a great menu.

12
Brugada Kitchen and Bar image 1
American restaurant

Modern American restaurant offers a calm and serene atmosphere with live soulful music at a comfortable volume that allows easy conversation. The space features stunning decor and a loungey vibe near a busy area, creating a relaxed yet vibrant dining experience.

Bar managers like Monique, Darian, and Charlie provide amazing service and take great care of guests. The bar atmosphere suits both celebrations and quiet evenings.

Huge portions of fresh charcuterie and salmon pasta stand out. The lamb meatball pasta with vodka sauce offers a rich, flavorful option.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good and tasty."

"The bar staff, especially Lils and Darian, were amazing and attentive."

"The salmon pasta here is delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 pm with special drink prices.

2

Gluten-free options are limited to eggs, bacon, and fruit.

3

A $20 cover charge applies on certain nights.

Discover more

Downtown, Nashville

Area guide
Loading Map...