10 Restaurants Guests Will Rave About in the Nashville and Goodlettsville Area
When guests arrive for your Nashville-area event—whether a wedding welcome dinner or a corporate group night out—you’ll want restaurants that deliver atmosphere, thoughtful service, and a true sense of place. We selected ten venues ranging from relaxed favorites near The Forum to downtown destinations for a night on the town.
1. Etch
Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, Etch offers creative American cuisine by acclaimed chef Deb Paquette. With its industrial-chic space and inventive dishes, it works beautifully for rehearsal dinners or networking receptions. Visit Etch
Downtown Nashville, ~18 miles from The Forum
Great for corporate dining events
2. Rolf & Daughters
A landmark in Nashville’s modern dining scene, Rolf & Daughters blends chic minimalism with warm hospitality. Its share-plate format and flexible seating make it ideal for corporate dinners and creative gatherings alike.
Germantown, ~17 miles from The Forum
Great for large groups
3. City House
For couples seeking a modern twist on Southern comfort, City House offers Italian-Southern fusion in a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere. It’s stylish yet approachable—perfect for bridal parties and families looking to unwind.
Germantown, ~17 miles from The Forum
Great for wedding parties
4. The Optimist
With its oyster-bar feel and coastal charm, The Optimist offers an elevated yet unpretentious dining experience. The open layout accommodates larger groups, and the location keeps you close to Nashville’s heart.
Germantown, ~17 miles from The Forum
Great for large groups
5. Lagniappe Bayou Kitchen
Just minutes from The Forum, this cozy Goodlettsville spot brings Cajun-style flavors in a warm, intimate setting. Ideal for a relaxed welcome dinner or casual group night without the downtown commute.
Goodlettsville, ~2 miles from The Forum
Great for easy access from The Forum
6. Folk
Folk offers a warm, contemporary American menu in East Nashville, and its semi-private space is ideal for groups of up to 20 guests with curated family-style menus.
East Nashville, ~20 miles from The Forum
Great for large groups
Image Credit: Ella’s by Christian Petroni
7. Ella’s by Christian Petroni
This downtown Italian contemporary restaurant brings polished curb appeal and vibrant flavors—an excellent choice for a special-occasion group dinner or night-out experience for out-of-town guests.
Downtown Nashville/Sobre, ~18 miles from The Forum
Great for wedding parties and large groups
8. Pelato
Pelato blends Brooklyn style with Nashville energy, offering shareable small plates in a lively, modern setting. Ideal for corporate dinners or casual celebration nights with a group.
Germantown, ~17 miles from The Forum
Great for large groups and private events
Image Credit: Butcher & Bee
9. Butcher & Bee
This beloved neighborhood restaurant blends a chic, relaxed atmosphere with craft cuisine and offers private-dining rooms that seat up to 48 guests (with patio + lounge combos for larger groups), delivering a boutique feel with event capacity.
East Nashville, ~20 miles from The Forum
Great for large groups and private events
10. Kase X Noko
For groups looking for something beyond traditional Southern cooking and American fare, Kase X Noko offers Sushi in East Nashville. Stylish, fun, and designed for gatherings that want something different.
East Nashville, ~20 miles from The Forum
Great for large groups
Whether you choose an elegant downtown spot or a relaxed local gem near The Forum, you’re creating moments your guests will remember.
Plan your next event at The Forum, just minutes from downtown Nashville.