The Best Restaurants in Nashville’s Germantown
Germantown offers a small escape from the hustle and bustle of Nashville, with historic houses and diverse architecture. Home to the city’s creative industries and artists, walking around Germantown is a graffiti-spotting, trendy coffee-shop-hunting feast for the senses, with a dash of period charm. Here’s Culture Trip’s local insiders’ guide to the best restaurants in the area.
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Henrietta Red
Chic, spacious and refined decor make Henrietta Red a joy to dine in. A penchant for seasonal cooking and locally sourced ingredients make it stand out from the plentiful offerings in Germantown – that and the oyster bar. If seafood is your bag, head to Henrietta Red for the raw bar alone. Fairy lights strung in the courtyard make it a beautiful place to sit on a warm evening. Recommended by local insider Erica Commisso
Geist Bar + Restaurant
Voted one of America’s most beautiful bars, Geist is very easy on the eye, with exposed-brick walls, soft lighting and the kind of furniture you wish were in your home. Cocktails are taken seriously and can be served in the Champagne Garden (yes, it has a champagne garden), and the brunch and dinner menus brim with Southern flavors. Try the roasted pork tagliatelle served with greens and pecorino. Recommended by local insider Erica Commisso
Rolf and Daughters
Start with the sourdough and seaweed butter, share a pizza and a pasta, sip some delicious wine and polish it all off with home-made sorbet. Alternatively, take whatever journey through the menu you wish, as you’ll be happy regardless at Rolf and Daughters. Dimly lit and with beautiful interiors, this place is perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just spending an evening of quality time with your loved one. Recommended by local insider Cristy Wicks
Waldo’s Chicken and Beer
Chicken, mac and cheese and beer are three of life’s greatest things, and they’re done so well at this laid-back joint. Choose from fire-roasted or Southern-fried birds, along with a glorious list of sides all made in-house, daily. Choose from collard greens, white beans or perfect french fries, and sauces of honey mustard, Alabama white or buttermilk ranch. Big tables and an expansive (dog-friendly) terrace make this a haven for groups looking for a finger-licking good time. Recommended by local insider Erica Commisso
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall and Kitchen
Owner Austin had a grand old time when he visited Munich’s Oktoberfest – so much that he wanted to bring the concept of the beer hall to Germantown. With a nod to Tennessee barbecue, Von Elrod’s was born, bringing Southern flavors and steins of beer to the masses. Enjoy a Texas-style beef brisket or St Louis spare ribs on its outdoor terrace before heading to a Nashville Sounds game – the First Horizon Park is just next door. Recommended by local insider Chaney Curd
City House
You’re spoiled for choice for dining options in Germantown, but City House seems to stand out from the rest with a high-end offering. Take a seat at the pizza bar or a table on the patio, and attempt to choose from its delicious menu. You won’t find your classic ham and pineapple here; instead, ingredients such as octopus and spring garlic or pork belly and mozzarella top perfectly chewy bases and delight any hardened pizza lover. Recommended by local insider Juliette Lefaivre