Nashville | Pastis Makes a Chic Southern Debut
Pastis Nashville | Wedgewood-Houston
Anchoring itself in the historic May Hosiery Mills building, Pastis Nashville didn’t just open; it arrived in Nashville with a wink and a chilled martini. It’s all tile, tin, and flickering candlelight, where the air smells like butter, white Burgundy, and something a little bit decadent. The zinc bar curves like a secret, the servers glide like it’s a film, and suddenly Wedgewood-Houston feels a lot more like the 6th arrondissement with a Tennessee drawl.
Pastis is the brainchild of legendary restaurateur Keith McNally, the force behind New York icons like Balthazar and Minetta Tavern, and brought to Nashville by the ever-chic STARR Restaurants. Following outposts in NYC, Washington D.C., and Miami, this is Pastis’ fourth chapter, and it might just be its most charismatic yet.
Undoubtedly, they are bringing that same lived-in glamour to Music City: steak frites that sizzle, escargots in hot parsley butter, and a bouillabaisse that, from what I hear, is worth canceling all plans for. But this isn’t a carbon copy bistro; it’s got its own rhythm and Nashville swagger. Whether you’ve posted at the bar with oysters and rosé or tucking into a three-hour dinner that turns into the best night, Pastis isn’t just where you eat; it’s where you linger.
Pastis Nashville
Let’s talk about the most important thing- the menu.
On the menu, guests can expect to see a love letter to French classics, with just enough edge to keep things interesting. Think golden, bubbling French Onion Soup, delicate Steak Tartare, and a Bouillabaisse rich enough to transport you straight to Marseille. Guests have shared that the Duck Confit is nothing short of spectacular- think crisp, tender, and unapologetically indulgent. While the Steak Frites has the main character moment that one would expect, they are served with a side of perfectly crisp frites, perhaps some of the best in Nashville. Daily specials keep things fresh, with Lobster Risotto making a guest appearance on Thursday. Pair it all with a crisp glass of Sancerre or a cocktail from the bar, and you’ve got a meal that will make you forget you are in Nashville.
There’s one dish that I can’t recommend enough: Warm Shrimp Salade. This dish is truly the quiet showstopper of the evening. Delicately prepared shrimp topped with lemon beurre blanc sauce served with tossed greens and avocado. It’s light, luxe, and just the right amount of dreamy. With each bite, I felt more and more like I was on a sun-drenched terrace in the South of France. A girl can dream, right?
While I am not much for fish, I must say, the Grilled Branzino with the tapenade left me speechless. Dig into the beans first. They are cozy and incredibly flavorful. Savor the tapenade sparingly. It’s bright and the saltiness complements the fish without overpowering it. At $43.00, it is one of the more refined entrées, but a great choice if you’re craving something lighter, yet substantial.
Pastis | Six Oysters + Mignonette and Shrimp Cocktail
Why it’s worth it
Top Tier Vibes | Whether you’re after a romantic date night, a celebratory dinner, or a stylish brunch (coming soon), Pastis delivers an immersive ambiance that transports you straight to Paris, which is perfect and much cheaper than a flight to Charles de Gaulle Airport.
Exquisite Brasserie Fare | It’s rare to find such authentic, well-executed French cuisine in Nashville. While there are a handful of restaurants that channel their “inner French chef”, nothing compares to what’s prepared under the watch of Executive Chef Mark Coleman.
Prime Location | Nestled in the May Hosiery Mills building in Wedgewood-Houston, you’ll feel plugged into Nashville’s coolest culinary corridor, close to hotspots like Soho House and Flamingo Cocktail Club.
Bar Scene to Savor | That curved bar isn’t just for show, although it’s a beauty. It serves as a hub for craft cocktails, lively conversation, and cocktail culture. Not to mention, it’s a great place to post up and have dinner if you couldn’t snag a reservation.
Pastis | Warm Shrimp Salade + Lemon Beurre Blanc + Avocado
Things to know before you go
Pastis has dinner service nightly from 5:00 -10:00 pm, with lunch and brunch coming soon. Reservations can be made on Resy, and walk-ins are accommodated when possible.
One thing about being in a “hot” Nashville neighborhood is the lack of parking. Street spaces are often limited, and there are several pay lots in the area. Personally, I’d say that ridesharing is the way to go. That way, you can fully immerse yourself in the dining experience and not worry about your parking session.
Pastis | Grilled Branzino + Gigante Beans + Tapenade
Final Bite
Pastis Nashville is more than just a new restaurant; it’s a beautifully designed gathering place that elevates our local dining landscape. For anyone swooning for French fare, cocktail culture, or an incredible French wine list, it’s a must-visit, whether you are a local or simply passing through.
Bon appétit and welcome, Pastis!
Until Next Time!
