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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Salad and dessert spots in Downtown Nashville

You are looking for a balanced meal that still leaves room for a proper treat.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Villa Castrioti image 1
Villa Castrioti image 2
Villa Castrioti image 3
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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.

A special selection of desserts is available, with knowledgeable staff offering wine pairings. The creme brulee stands out as a popular choice to finish the meal.

People are saying

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

"I tried the grilled chicken dinner salad and it was tasty."

"The desserts, like the cannoli, were fantastic."

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.

02
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.

Caesar Salad comes perfectly dressed with a crisp, bright texture and seasoned to perfection. Ophelia's salad and whipped ricotta also offer solid options.

The Big Fat Cream Puff stands out as a signature dessert. Tiramisu is offered as a birthday treat, and free desserts come with birthday celebrations.

People are saying

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

"The Caesar Salad here has the best dressing I've ever had."

"The desserts here are sinfully delightful."

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.

03
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers an elegant dining room with exceptional decor and lighting. Live band performances featuring piano and vocals create a laid-back, relaxing vibe without overpowering conversation. Guests experience classy, calm atmosphere suited for romantic evenings and special occasions.

Salads come with unique flair and great presentation. The Caesar salad and Mushroom arugula salad stand out as well prepared and flavorful.

Banana foster stands out as a signature dessert here. Special occasions often come with surprise celebratory desserts that add to the experience.

People are saying

"The seafood here is amazing and perfectly prepared."

"They surprised me with a special anniversary dessert."

"The Caesar salad was delicious and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during busy events.

2

Happy hour features a selection of reasonably priced appetizers and drinks.

3

Expect a three-hour dining experience from seating to finishing.

04
The Nashville Grange image 1

Floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of Union Station and city landmarks, creating a bright, modern space with upscale ambiance. The atmosphere balances lively energy with manageable noise levels, suitable for business dinners or special occasions.

Salads feature large shrimp that can be a bit tough and heirloom tomatoes paired with salmon. The romaine salad offers a refreshing contrast alongside other dishes.

Desserts end meals with great flavor and include a Mango lassi dessert that stands out. They taste delicious and leave a positive impression.

People are saying

"The food here is creative and delicious for dinner."

"The romaine with shrimp salad had huge shrimp."

"The desserts here are great."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be made easily through the Hyatt app.

2

Parking is free for two hours with a restaurant receipt.

3

The restaurant serves food until closing time at 10:00 pm.

05
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.

Warm shrimp salad stands out with its rich marinade and serves well as an entrée. Tomato and strawberry salad offers a fresh, vibrant mix, while tuna tartare adds a distinctive touch to the salad options.

Desserts stand out with lava cake and themed options that impress. Every sweet treat, including risotto and avocado pizza accompaniments, delivers incredible flavor.

People are saying

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

"The asparagus and avocado salad was delicious."

"You have to try the desserts, especially the warm chocolate cake."

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.

06
Mel’s Drive-In Nashville image 1

Huge diner space blends retro decor with a modern twist and features mini jukeboxes at each table for music selection. Bright, lively atmosphere channels an old-school road trip vibe with neon lights and classic car themes. Crowd enjoys a mix of nostalgic ambiance and contemporary bar offerings.

Salads here stand out for their crispy freshness. The Caesar Salad offers a solid classic taste, and the potato salad rates an 8 out of 10.

Warm pecan pie stands out with its rich flavor. A short stack of pancakes offers a fluffy texture and a funnel cake-like aroma.

People are saying

"The food here is great, and Noelle's service is fantastic."

"The salads here are the crispiest and freshest I've ever had."

"The desserts here are excellent, especially the warm pecan pie."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 25% discount on parking for up to 3 hours.

2

Breakfast is served all day, including vegetarian options.

3

Expect large portion sizes for all menu items.

07
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.

Caesar salad stands out as a highlight here, noted for its exceptional taste. It pairs well with sandwiches like the prosciutto and Reuben.

People are saying

"The pizza here is memorable and exceptionally delicious."

"This Caesar Salad is fresh, flavorful, and fabulous."

"The Panna Cotta dessert was superb, made with fresh fruit."

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.

08
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse image 1

Elegant dining room with dark wood walls and stunning decor creates a classy atmosphere. Bar and patio offer refined spaces while nonstop meat service delivers a distinctive churrasco experience. Background noise and crowded layout contrast with the overall polished vibe.

Freshness stands out with a great selection at the Market Table. The salad bar offers a variety of crisp options that complement the meal well.

Desserts include pineapple and papaya options that stand out. They arrive as a perfect finishing touch and sometimes come as a birthday treat.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the Picanha."

"The staff here are phenomenal and attentive."

"The salad bar had a fresh, great selection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day, offering select cuts and great appetizers.

2

Parking costs $5 for every 2 hours.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to avoid long waits.

09
The Detroit Cowboy image 1

Restaurant offers an eclectic, nostalgic decor filled with memorabilia and a speakeasy room. Atmosphere features live jazz music with a grand piano and a welcoming patio for dogs. Drinks include expertly curated cocktails and a notable wine list.

People are saying

"The service here is outstanding, truly above and beyond."

"The servers here are so attentive, it's perfect for Date Spots."

"The Caesar salad had a strong anchovy flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM with half-price cocktails.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

The patio party ends at 6:00 PM, limiting outdoor enjoyment.

10
Bob's Steak & Chop House image 1

Old-time steakhouse design creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere with beautiful decoration and a well-appointed private room. The space includes a bar area that adds to the lively energy. It suits both quiet dinners and larger groups seeking a friendly, upscale vibe.

Wedge salad stands out with blue cheese and fresh ingredients. Salads consistently appear among the favorite dishes alongside other starters.

Complimentary desserts include bread pudding that tastes incredible. Service adds extra touches like handwritten anniversary cards and free dessert for special occasions.

People are saying

"The ribeye steak here is perfectly grilled and delicious."

"The salads here are fresh and the service is fantastic."

"The creme brulee dessert was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Valet parking is available, but expect delays during peak hours.

3

A $7 up-charge applies for fries instead of baked potatoes with entrees.

11
Hattie B's Hot Chicken - Nashville - Lower Broadway image 1

Crowded spot on a vibrant street with busy atmosphere and good music. Lines form consistently, reflecting its popularity and reasonable prices. Offers gluten-free options alongside classic hot chicken with notable spice and flavor.

Potato salad stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavor. Black bean salad and black eye pea salad offer bold southern flavors alongside some of the best southern greens.

Peach cobbler stands out as a dessert option. The banana pudding offers strong flavor and good value at $4. Special occasions get extra attention with personalized desserts.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the hot chicken, is the best I've had."

"You have to try the peach cobbler; it's delicious."

"I loved the fresh, perfectly seasoned salad with cornbread croutons."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect long lines during peak hours.

2

Gluten-free options are available, including chicken tenders and sides.

3

The restaurant's policy requires you to order before taking a table.

12
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.

Wedge salad offers a classic crunch with fresh toppings. Caprese salad stands out with inventive presentation and fresh ingredients.

Desserts come out perfect and complement the fantastic wait staff and live music atmosphere well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and generously portioned."

"The salads here are so fresh and the service is outstanding."

"You have to try the cannoli with marzipan gelato for dessert."

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.

13
Deacon's New South image 1

Industrial high-end design blends with historical architecture to create an elegant and trendy dining space. Atmosphere balances upscale elegance with warm charm, offering a refined yet inviting vibe. Open kitchen and dry-aged meat display add distinctive visual interest to the experience.

Warm spinach salad pairs well with a 22 oz bone-in ribeye. Peach frisee salad offers mixed textures and flavors, from sweet to spicy and soft to crunchy, making it better than the sum of its parts.

Desserts include a unique Tiramisu that offers a fresh take on the classic. Ice cream comes in small portions with three scoops, suitable for a quick sweet fix.

People are saying

"This steak was perfectly aged, seasoned, and cooked to absolute precision."

"You have to try the Tiramisu; it's an interesting and delicious interpretation."

"The salad had mixed textures and flavors, sweet to spicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted plates and wines from 4-6pm daily.

2

The restaurant has limited availability for dry-aged steaks; arrive early.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours.

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Downtown, Nashville

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