After months of carryout-only operations and two weeks of dipping their toes in dine-in business again, Nashville restaurants have finally reached “Phase 2” of the city’s mandated reopening plan.
As of May 25, restaurants can now operate at 75% capacity as long as they can still ensure six feet of space between tables Bar areas must still remain closed to prevent gathering of patrons, and all employees are expected to be screened for COVID-19 daily, at least through temperature checks and by answering a series of questions about potential contacts. In a change from the initial government plans, live music is now allowed so long as no more than two musicians share the stage at one time, and dance floors must remain closed.
Even with the new regulations, many Nashville restaurants are still taking a more cautious approach, sticking with carryout and delivery options while investigating ways to best keep their staff and guests as safe as possible. It’s difficult to keep up with who’s in and who is still waiting, but Eater Nashville has been working hard to keep an updated list of restaurants where dining in is now allowed.
Although dining choices are still somewhat limited, there are options for just about any type of cuisine you might be craving. Fans of Italian food can scratch that itch at Amerigo, Valentino’s, Caffe Nonna or Maggiano’s. Searching for barbecue? Local favorites Peg Leg Porker, Edley’s and Martin’s Bar-b-que Joint are ready for you.
If you’re hunting for a good steak, Char, Sperry’s, STK, Kayne Prime and Stoney River have the beef. For casual fine food, check out The Farm House, Adele’s, Black Rabbit, 404 Kitchen or Midtown Cafe. Arnold’s Country Kitchen and Wendell Smith’s are again serving up their classic meat-and-three fare, ML Rose is dishing up fantastic burgers, and Double Dogs and Daddy’s Dogs have your frankfurter needs covered.
Outside of Davidson County, rules are a little more lax, so there are plenty of other dining options for diners willing to make the short trip out of town. But Nashville restaurants need your support, so keep an eye on that Eater list and dine out as soon as you feel comfortable doing so!
