Chef Collabs: Born as a way to get local diners back into restaurants after the pandemic, the Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp. has revived Dine Nashville for a third year, highlighted by a series of chef collaborations during the second half of February. We’re partial to a Feb. 20 collab between Husk and Catbird Seat (book here), and one on Feb. 22 between Lyra and Mimo (book here)
Back in Belmont:Chago’s Belmont Cantina has returned, reimagined and under new ownership. Greatest hits have been amended with more salads and sandwiches, plus a instant-fave burger. Then there’s the dizzying array of Tequila and other agave-based spirits at the full bar. And the flan. (Order as soon as you sit; it sells out early.) Book here, and find more recent openings on New On Resy.
Black History Month: A great way to commemorate would be a visit to the National Museum of African American Music. While you’re there, grab a bite at outposts of two of Nashville’s most vital restaurants, Prince’s Hot Chicken and Slim and Husky’s. The former is the originator of Nashville’s iconic dish; the latter was the first Black-owned restaurant in the entire downtown district.
Last Chance: Almost exactly a year after Arnold’s Country Kitchen prompted spasms of sadness by announcing their abrupt closure after 40 years of serving Nashville’s most beloved meat-and-three, ownership has granted a temporary reprieve to those with a craving — in the form of weekday lunch. This only represents a short-term fix as they plan to close whenever their building sells, so don’t miss out on at least one more chance to eat there!
New to the Hit List (Feb. 2024) Frankies Nashville, Butcher & Bee, Drusie & Darr by Jean-Georges, Black Rabbit, Lyra, Pelican & Pig, Henrietta Red.
