Best Contemporary American Restaurants in West End

39 restaurants available nearby

1. The Catbird Seat

4.8

Exceptional(171)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Music Row

Booked 6 times today

The Catbird Seat in Music Row, Nashville, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, distinguished by its interactive, chef-run setting that has garnered accolades including "Best New Restaurant" from both GQ Magazine and Bon Appetit. This intimate venue offers a 22-seat counter where diners can witness the culinary artistry firsthand, making each meal not just a dish, but a performance. Renowned for its tasting menu, the restaurant delivers an unparalleled dining experience with every course meticulously crafted to tell a unique story through its flavors. Reviewers consistently praise its innovative approach; one guest was moved to tears by the "pure joy of food," highlighting the emotional impact of their culinary journey. Another asserts it's "probably the best tasting menu in Nashville," placing it on par with Michelin-starred establishments. The Catbird Seat’s commitment to excellence makes it a must-visit for those seeking an exceptional Contemporary American meal.

A photo of The Mockingbird Nashville restaurant

2. The Mockingbird Nashville

4.7

Exceptional(3143)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • The Gulch & North Gulch

Booked 50 times today

At The Mockingbird Nashville, located in the vibrant Gulch & North Gulch neighborhood, culinary excellence meets American cuisine with a delightful global twist. Diners rave about the "excellent menu choices," with must-try dishes like the Mockingburger and the globally-inspired Flock Yes, which guests describe as "phenomenal." The atmosphere is as inviting as the menu, featuring art deco decor and a whimsical mirrored bird sculpture that adds to the dining experience. Whether it's the "delicious" Mac N Cheese or the innovative cocktails, every bite and sip at The Mockingbird is crafted with flair and precision. It's no wonder locals and visitors alike are quick to recommend this Nashville gem, celebrating it as a "must-stop" spot for its "creative food and drink offerings" and consistently "amazing service."

3. Blue Aster

4.6

Exceptional(306)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Midtown

Booked 10 times today

Blue Aster, nestled in the vibrant Midtown area of Nashville, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with its innovative farm-to-table approach. Celebrated for its seasonal menus that highlight local and regional purveyors, the restaurant ensures the freshest ingredients in dishes that delight both the palate and the eye. Patrons rave about the exceptional quality and presentation, declaring meals like the "Dallas cut" dinner and "fresh toast" breakfast as "superb." The ambiance, described as "chic" and "cosmopolitan," complements the dining experience, making Blue Aster a must-visit for those seeking a standout American culinary experience in Nashville.

4. etch - Nashville

4.7

Exceptional(8521)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown / Sobro

Booked 56 times today

Located in the vibrant SoBro district of Nashville, Etch stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. Under the culinary genius of Chef Deb Paquette, known for her accolades as Nashville's best chef, Etch presents a menu that dazzles with global flavors and inventive presentations. Reviewers rave about the "incredible" food and service, highlighting dishes like the "must have cauliflower" and the "sublime salmon." Each dish is crafted with a bold, artistic flair, making dining at Etch a captivating experience. Guests also enjoy the interactive atmosphere provided by the open kitchen and the thoughtful service that makes every visit memorable. Whether it's for a casual dinner or a special occasion, Etch consistently impresses with its exceptional cuisine and warm ambiance, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers in Nashville.

5. Park Cafe

4.8

Exceptional(1339)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Sylvan Park & Sylvan Heights

Booked 43 times today

Park Cafe, nestled in the charming neighborhoods of Sylvan Park and Sylvan Heights in Nashville, is a true culinary delight for aficionados of Tapas and Small Plates. Celebrated for its authentic and high-quality offerings, this hidden gem has been perfecting the art of small plates for over two decades. Diners rave about the variety and creativity of the dishes, with one patron exclaiming, "The appetizers can often be a main course!" Chef Jeffrey Martin's commitment to using local, fresh ingredients ensures every dish bursts with flavor, from the "pillowy beignets" to the "delicious grits" served with eggs Benedict. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere, combined with exemplary service, makes Park Cafe a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional tapas experience in Nashville.

6. Thistle & Rye

4.3

Awesome(68)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Midtown

Booked 5 times today

Thistle & Rye in Midtown, Nashville, delivers an exceptional Contemporary Southern dining experience that genuinely stands out. Nestled on the third floor of the Conrad Hotel, this restaurant blends traditional Southern charm with a modern twist, offering a globally inspired menu that excites the palate. Guests rave about the “delicious” food and “fantastic” atmosphere, with live music enhancing the vibrant ambiance. The KFC cauliflower and the acclaimed cheeseburger are must-tries, each dish showcasing the innovative culinary approach to Southern cuisine. With glowing reviews like “10/10” and high praise for the attentive service, Thistle & Rye is a beacon of contemporary Southern delights in the heart of Nashville.

7. Geist

4.8

Exceptional(2259)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Germantown

Booked 175 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Germantown neighborhood of Nashville, **Geist** shines as a beacon of American cuisine, offering a memorable dining experience that locals and visitors alike rave about. Patrons are consistently impressed by the "spectacular" food and the unique ambiance of the Champagne Garden. As one diner exclaimed, the food is "always amazing," with favorites like the shrimp bucatini and inventive appetizers such as Fries with Crab. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every dish, described as "cooked perfectly" and "high quality," making every meal feel like a special occasion. With its "warm, intimate atmosphere" and "friendly, professional service," Geist is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic American dining experience in Nashville.

8. The Hampton Social Rooftop

4.4

Awesome(836)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown / Sobro

Booked 15 times today

At the heart of Downtown Nashville, The Hampton Social Rooftop sets the standard for Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful coastal twist. This rooftop hotspot not only offers stunning vistas of the city but also a menu that captivates with its creative flair. Patrons rave about the "delicious" lobster roll, "flavorful" smash burger, and the must-have Parmesan fries, highlighting the kitchen's ability to elevate comfort classics with modern sophistication. The atmosphere is consistently praised as "energetic" and "fun," perfect for a casual yet chic dining experience. Whether it's for the signature Rosé or hand-crafted cocktails, every visit promises to be as vibrant as Nashville itself.

A photo of Gannons - Nashville restaurant

9. Gannons - Nashville

4.6

Exceptional(418)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown / Sobro

Booked 43 times today

Gannons in Downtown Nashville is an absolute delight for seafood lovers! Nestled at The Marriott Courtyard, this casual fine dining gem shines with its fresh, delectable seafood offerings. Guests rave about the "Brie Oysters" and "Swordfish specials," which are said to be "cooked and seasoned perfectly." One diner exclaimed that the "Oysters Rockefeller" were the "best ever," underscoring the quality and freshness of their seafood. The atmosphere, enhanced by live jazz, complements the culinary experience, making Gannons a must-visit for those seeking an authentic seafood dining experience in Nashville. With consistent praise for both the ambiance and the cuisine, it's clear why Gannons stands out in the vibrant Sobro neighborhood.

10. Evelyn's

4.4

Awesome(157)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Midtown

Booked 5 times today

Evelyn's in Midtown Nashville has quickly established itself as a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts seeking both quality and innovation. This Cocktail Bar stands out for its dedication to crafting memorable experiences, featuring drinks that complement a modern Southern-inspired menu. Patrons rave about the "best dirty martini in Nashville" and celebrate the expertise of bartenders who are "extremely knowledgeable" and provide "excellent recommendations." The ambiance, brimming with retro charm and cosmopolitan flair, makes Evelyn's not just a place to dine, but a venue to savor the art of mixology. Whether it's for a quiet meeting or a lively celebration, Evelyn's cocktail bar delivers an exceptional blend of flavor, creativity, and atmosphere.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

K
Kathleenvip
Tampa / Central Florida West •92 reviews
5.0
Dined today
We enjoyed an outstanding dining experience at The Mockingbird. Our server provided much helpful information about the establishment and menu. The menu was eclectic and interesting. The shortribs with fried rice and brussel sprouts were delicious. My companions enjoyed the schnitzel and flank steak entrees. An exceptional dining experience!
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The Mockingbird NashvillePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• The Gulch & North Gulch
•
4.7
A
Aaron
Nashville •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Best dinner we have ever had. The food was unreal. My only complaint is that if you are hungry this food won’t fill you up as it is just tasting.
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The Catbird SeatPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Music Row
•
4.8
S
Samantha
Atlanta Metro •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Food was good but as a vegetarian there weren’t many options. I ended up just getting a side salad and a side dish. My husband said the pork sirloin was very good with great flavor. The best part of the dinner was our excellent server, Brenna. She was friendly, polite and professional.
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etch - NashvillePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown / Sobro
•
4.7
J
Jermalvip
Houston •22 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 11, 2024
One of the few times you get what you pay for in an upscale hotel. The drinks were well balanced. The food was tasty. Very good experience.
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Thistle & RyePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Midtown
•
4.3
OT
OpenTable Diner
Nashville •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 2, 2024
The food was really good and my waitress was sweet
More info
Blue AsterPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Midtown
•
4.6

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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in West End

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39 restaurants available nearby

1. The Catbird Seat

2. The Mockingbird Nashville

3. Blue Aster

4. etch - Nashville

5. Park Cafe

6. Thistle & Rye

7. Geist

8. The Hampton Social Rooftop

9. Gannons - Nashville

10. Evelyn's

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