Nashville’s star is on the rise as its reputation as the “it-city” of the hour spreads far and wide. One category where Nashville is most definitely building its reputation is in its culinary scene. Sometimes it seems as if a new celebrity chef, concept restaurant, or chic chain opens a location in Nashville every week. But we love our locals who’ve worked their way onto our palates!
Best Overall Restaurant
ROSEPEPPER CANTINA
To eat at Rosepepper is to love it! If you’ve had a meal at there, you know what a life-changing experience it can be, from its award-winning margaritas by the pitcher to the amazing chips and queso. Even before you’ve gotten to the entrées, you’re going to have reason to love this place. Rosepepper also boasts probably one of the best stocked tequila bars north of the border, with a staff able to help you choose from over eighty varieties of tequila they serve.
First Date
SUZY WONG’S HOUSE OF YUM
Suzy Wong’s may not have garnered the top nod (Best Overall Restaurant) again this year, but with its great food and its proximity to Nashville’s favorite gay bars and clubs, it’s no wonder Suzy Wong’s remains just the right place to bring a first date. And hey, if romance doesn’t blossom, by the end of dinner, Church Street has lots of charms!
Local Chef / Fine Dining
MARGOT MCCORMICK
Once again, Margot McCormack has the distinction of winning BOTH Best Local Chef AND Best Fine Dining. Margot has graced the cover of O&AN, so she is well known to our readers. You might think Nashville might tire of Margot, but with a daily menu reflecting the best of continental cuisines, how could we? Seriously, with things like “Pan Roasted Wreckfish” and “Mushroom and Caramelized Onion Paella” on the menu, there is literally never a boring moment in this mainstay of fine dining in Nashville.
Pizza
FIVE POINTS PIZZA
Americans love their pizza (though they may duel over exactly the ‘right’ way of making it), and Nashvillians are no exception. And for a second year in a row, Five Points Pizza is serving it up the way Nashville likes it (New York, not Chicago!). This hole-in-the-wall’s ambience is second-to-none, if you’re looking for an old-school casual dining experience!
Brunch
MAD DONNA’S
Mad Donna’s is way more than the hottest brunch in town, with their Drag Bingo and their live music, but sometimes we forget. After all, they had us with “a Bloody Mary Bar.” There’s no surprise that our readers picked it again this year. It’s the place to grab brunch and be seen… at a bloody mary bar!
Coffee
FROTHY MONKEY
With four locations, you can enjoy a hot Frothy Monkey around Nashville and even in Franklin! They’ve got a drink menu that will make any warm beverage enthusiast happy, with coffees on tap and rotating seasonal beverages. Its chill vibe makes it a great place to start your day, recharge, or catch up with friends.
Patio
3 CROW
Winner of this year’s GayFave Best Non-Gay Bar is clearly more than just a drinking hole. Our readers come for the liquor and stay for the porch! It’s a prime Sunday stop for the Nashville Grizzlies, and pretty much everyone else. The vibe is so laid back and fun, it’s the perfect place for nice weather casual drinks with friends.
See also:
GAY FAVES 2014 Bartenders
GAY FAVES 2014 Nightlife
GAY FAVES 2014 Dining
GAY FAVES 2014 Community
GAY FAVES 2014 Look Good / Feel Good
GAY FAVES 2014 Places
GAY FAVES 2014 Professional Services