As Nashville restaurants continue to remain open at only 50 percent capacity, at least for the time being, more and more people are looking for places to eat outside, both as a way to socially distance and enjoy some fresh air. Thankfully, Nashville has PLENTY of places with gorgeous spaces to dine al fresco. We’ve picked nine of our favorites.
(NOTE: We always recommend calling first, to make sure each place is open and has availability).
1. Taco Mamacita
There’s never a bad time to eat a taco, especially if it’s at Taco Mamacita. The unique Mexican restaurant, located in the Edgehill community off of Music Row, offers some of the best tacos, including Korean BBQ or Caribbean Jerk. They also have vegetarian and vegan options.
2. Tennessee Brew Works
Tennessee Brew Works might be one of Nashville’s best kept secrets, but hopefully not for long. The fully-operational brewery offers both indoor and outdoor seating, along with a full — and unique — menu. Try the Five Beer Burger if you’re starving, or the Beet Salad, with both smoked and marinated beets, along with kale, burrata and walnut powder. (We’ve tried both, and they are both amazing).
3. Eastland Cafe
Eastland Cafe has two separate outdoor eating options, pretty much guaranteeing a spot will be available whenever you arrive. With super attentive staff, and affordable food and drink options, Eastland Cafe is perfect for both a full dinner or just a cocktail and a snack. Don’t miss their happy hour, every Tuesday to Saturday, from 4:00 to 6:00, where the fried pickles are only $5 and the fish tacos — big enough for a meal — are only $7.
4. The Mockingbird
Few things bring us as much pleasure in the summer — or any season for that matter — as The Mockingbird’s Punching Bag drink. A sinfully deceptive cocktail, made with fresh fruit and your choice of liquor, that alone is worth a visit. But since it’s owned by Food Network star Maneet Chauhan (who also owns the Chauhan Ale & Masala House next door), anything you order on the menu, including the Banana Chocolate Pie if you’re feeling the need for something decadent, is amazing.
5. Pinewood Social
Yes, Pinewood Social might be one of the only nicer restaurants that also happens to have a bowling alley, two dipping pools and more, but they also have plenty of space to just sit outside and enjoy their extensive menu. Their guacamole is what dreams are made of, as is their ridiculously fresh Summer Vegetable Salad. Make sure to get one (or two) glasses of their Sangria while you’re there.
6. Sambuca
Visiting Sambuca, located in the Gulch, is like getting a warm hug in the middle of Music City. Not only do they offer live music, they also offer a spacious place for outdoor dining. Their wine list is legendary, as is their food, including their Margherita pizza and their Goat-Cheese Stuffed Artichokes.
7. The Pub
The Pub not only offers outdoor seating, but it’s fully covered, making it the perfect place for even the hottest summer day. With a beer list that is hard to beat, they have an impressive brunch menu as well, and were previously recognized as having the best Fish & Chips in the country — and that’s saying a lot.
8. Pharmacy Burger
When we say Pharmacy Burger has something for everyone, we mean Pharmacy Burger has something for everyone. From the Falafel Burger or vegan Pachanga Burger, to the Chili Burger topped off with their legendary chocolate milkshake, Pharmacy Burger boasts plenty of outdoor seating options.
9. Martin’s Bar-B-Que
Martin’s Bar-B-Que has three locations in Nashville, but the one in Midtown has the best option for outdoor dining. There’s literally nothing bad on their menu, so just keep going back until you try it all. Not in the mood for barbecue? Try their burgers instead.
