Best Pizza Restaurants in Nashville
Nashville, a city renowned for its vibrant music scene and Southern hospitality, has quietly emerged as a hidden gem for pizza enthusiasts. While the city might be famous for its hot chicken and country music, its pizza restaurants in Nashville, Tennessee, offer a delectable culinary landscape that rivals any major foodie destination.
From artisanal wood-fired pizzas to classic New York-style slices, downtown Nashville’s pizza scene is a melting pot of flavors, techniques, and culinary creativity. Each pizzeria tells a unique story, transforming the simple combination of dough, sauce, and toppings into a gastronomic experience that reflects the city’s innovative spirit.
Among the standout destinations capturing the hearts of locals and tourists alike is Brugada Kitchen and Bar. This exceptional establishment has become a beacon for pizza lovers, showcasing how Nashville’s culinary scene continues to surprise and delight. Their commitment to quality ingredients, innovative recipes, and an atmosphere that captures the city’s energetic soul sets a new standard for pizza restaurants in Nashville.
Whether you’re a dedicated pizza connoisseur or a casual diner looking to explore Nashville’s culinary landscape, this guide promises to take you on an unforgettable journey through the city’s most exceptional pizza destinations.
Why Brugada Kitchen and Bar is Nashville’s Pizza Gem
Nestled in the bustling heart of Downtown Nashville at 505 Broadway, Brugada Kitchen and Bar has rapidly earned its reputation as the best pizza restaurant in Nashville. This modern establishment seamlessly blends industrial-chic design with warm, rustic elements, creating an inviting atmosphere where exposed brick walls meet contemporary art installations, perfect for both casual dining and special occasions.
What truly sets Brugada apart is their innovative approach to pizza-making. Their menu caters to all dietary preferences, including an impressive selection of gluten-free options that many consider the best gluten free pizza restaurants in Nashville have to offer. The secret lies in their proprietary flour blend and 72-hour fermentation process, resulting in a crust that’s crispy yet tender, whether traditional or gluten-free.
Their signature pizzas showcase the culinary team’s creativity, with standouts like the “Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza” featuring locally sourced hot chicken and honey drizzle, and the “Smokehouse BBQ” topped with house-smoked pulled pork and Tennessee whiskey-infused barbecue sauce. Each pizza is crafted in their custom-built wood-fired ovens, which maintain a precise temperature of 800°F for the perfect char.
Recent reviews on major platforms consistently praise Brugada’s attention to detail and exceptional service. As one Yelp reviewer notes, “The gluten-free crust is indistinguishable from regular pizza – finally, a place where my celiac disease doesn’t mean compromising on taste!” Another satisfied customer on TripAdvisor declares, “This isn’t just the best pizza in Nashville; it’s some of the best pizza I’ve had anywhere.
Top Pizza Restaurants in Nashville
Nashville’s pizza landscape is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, creativity, and culinary excellence. From traditional pizzerias to innovative kitchen concepts, the city’s pizza restaurants in Nashville, TN, offer something for every palate. Here’s a curated list of the top pizza destinations that define the city’s gastronomic scene.
1. Brugada Kitchen and Bar
At the forefront of Nashville’s pizza restaurants is Brugada Kitchen and Bar. Their menu is a masterful blend of traditional and innovative offerings, featuring a wide range of pizzas that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs.
Menu Variety: From classic Margherita to innovative local-inspired creations, Brugada offers an impressive selection. The “Brugada Pizza” pizza showcases the restaurant’s creative spirit, while traditional options satisfy purists.
Gluten-Free Options: Recognizing the importance of inclusive dining, Brugada provides exceptional gluten-free pizzas that don’t compromise on flavor or texture. Each gluten-free option is prepared with the same care and quality as their traditional pizzas.
Price Range: Moderately priced, with pizzas ranging from $12 to $22, offering excellent value for the quality and creativity of their offerings.
Ambiance: Industrial-chic design with an open kitchen, creating an immersive dining experience that celebrates the art of pizza-making.
2. Bella Napoli Pizzeria
A slice of Italy in the heart of Nashville, Bella Napoli Pizzeria brings authentic Neapolitan pizza-making traditions to Tennessee. Their wood-fired oven and imported Italian ingredients create a truly genuine experience.
Specialties: Classic Margherita, Quattro Formaggi, and seasonal specialty pizzas Atmosphere: Intimate and traditionally Italian, with a warm, welcoming environment Price Range: $14-$20 per pizza
3. IL Forno
Dedicated to the art of traditional pizza-making, IL Forno stands out among pizza restaurants in Nashville for its commitment to authentic techniques.
Highlights: Artisan sourdough crusts, locally sourced toppings Signature Pizzas: Truffle Mushroom, Prosciutto e Arugula Dining Style: Casual yet sophisticated, perfect for food enthusiasts
4. St. Vito Focacceria
A modern take on traditional Italian pizzeria, St. Vito offers a unique dining experience with its focus on focaccia-style pizzas and innovative toppings.
Unique Offerings: Focaccia-based pizzas, creative vegetarian options Atmosphere: Modern, minimalist design Must-Try: Seasonal vegetable focaccia pizza
5. City House
Though not exclusively a pizzeria, City House is renowned for its exceptional pizza offerings that blend Southern and Italian culinary traditions.
Signature Style: Thin-crust pizzas with unexpected Southern-inspired toppings Standout Dish: Belly Ham Pizza, showcasing local ingredients Ambiance: Rustic, farm-to-table environment
These best pizza restaurants in Nashville represent the city’s diverse and innovative culinary landscape, offering something for every pizza lover.
Gluten-Free Pizza Options in Nashville
For Nashville residents and visitors with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, finding exceptional gluten-free pizza has become increasingly easier. Among gluten free pizza restaurants in Nashville TN, several establishments have mastered the art of creating celiac-safe pizzas that don’t compromise on taste or texture.
Brugada Kitchen and Bar leads the gluten-free revolution with their innovative approach to gluten-free pizza making. Their dedicated gluten-free prep station and separate oven ensure zero cross-contamination, while their proprietary flour blend creates a crust that’s remarkably similar to traditional pizza dough. Their gluten-free menu mirrors their regular offerings, allowing everyone to enjoy specialties like their famous Nashville Hot Chicken Pizza and Mediterranean Veggie Supreme.
Beyond Brugada, Nashville’s gluten-free pizza scene continues to evolve. Several establishments now use imported gluten-free flour blends and maintain strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination. Many have invested in separate preparation areas and cooking equipment specifically for gluten-free orders, demonstrating their commitment to safely serving the gluten-sensitive community.
The rise in quality gluten-free options reflects Nashville’s broader commitment to inclusive dining. Local pizzerias have transformed what was once a dietary restriction into an opportunity for culinary innovation, proving that dietary requirements don’t have to limit gastronomic enjoyment.
Downtown Nashville: A Pizza Lover’s Paradise
Downtown Nashville transforms into a culinary wonderland for pizza enthusiasts, offering a remarkable journey through some of the city’s most innovative and delectable pizza destinations. The urban landscape becomes a gastronomic map, where each street corner promises a unique pizza experience that captures the city’s vibrant spirit.
Brugada Kitchen and Bar anchors this downtown pizza expedition as the best restaurant in Nashville for pizza, serving as a central hub for culinary adventurers. Located in the heart of the city, it provides an ideal starting point for a pizza walking tour that explores the rich tapestry of Nashville’s downtown dining scene.
The downtown pizza trail offers an exciting exploration of diverse pizzerias within walking distance of each other. From historic streets to modern dining districts, pizza lovers can easily navigate between multiple restaurants, sampling distinctive styles and flavors. The compact nature of downtown Nashville allows food enthusiasts to experience multiple pizza concepts in a single afternoon.
Key highlights of the downtown pizza walking tour include:
- Brugada Kitchen and Bar: The cornerstone of downtown pizza excellence
- City House: Situated just minutes away, offering unique Southern-inspired pizzas
- IL Forno: A short walk showcasing traditional pizza-making techniques
- St. Vito Focacceria: Providing an innovative take on classic pizza concepts
Each restaurant within this downtown corridor represents a different approach to pizza-making, reflecting Nashville’s diverse culinary landscape. The proximity of these establishments allows pizza enthusiasts to create their own personalized tasting experience, sampling multiple styles and interpretations of this beloved dish.
The downtown area’s walkability, combined with its rich pizza culture, transforms a simple meal into an immersive culinary adventure. Whether you’re a local resident or a visiting food lover, downtown Nashville offers an unparalleled pizza journey that celebrates creativity, tradition, and local flavors.
Insider Tips for Pizza Dining in Nashville
Navigating the pizza restaurants in downtown Nashville requires more than just an appetite—it demands strategic planning and local knowledge. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, these insider tips will elevate your pizza dining experience in Music City.Timing is Everything
The best times to explore Nashville’s pizza scene vary by restaurant. For Brugada Kitchen and Bar, weekday evenings between 5-7 PM offer the perfect balance of atmosphere and crowd levels. Avoid peak weekend dinner hours (7-9 PM) when most pizza restaurants in downtown Nashville experience significant wait times. Early weekday dinners or late lunches provide a more relaxed dining experience with shorter waits.Reservation Strategies
While walk-ins are welcome at many establishments, strategic reservations can make a significant difference:- Brugada Kitchen and Bar: Recommended for weekend visits
- City House: Book at least a week in advance
- IL Forno: Weekday reservations less critical
- St. Vito Focacceria: Phone ahead during peak tourist seasons
Pizza and Drink Pairings
Nashville’s pizza scene offers unique pairing opportunities:- Local Craft Beers: Many downtown pizzerias feature Tennessee microbrewery selections
- Nashville Whiskey Pairings: Complement spicy pizzas with local bourbon
- Wine Selections: Ask for sommelier recommendations that match specific pizza styles
Local Dining Insights
- Explore lunch specials for better value
- Follow restaurants on social media for surprise menu items
- Consider sharing pizzas to sample multiple varieties
- Check for weekly specials and chef’s experimental offerings
Budget-Friendly Tips
- Happy hour specials often feature discounted pizza
- Lunch menus typically offer more affordable options
- Some restaurants offer half-price pizza during off-peak hours
Conclusion
Nashville’s pizza scene is a vibrant testament to culinary creativity, and at the heart of this gastronomic landscape stands Brugada Kitchen and Bar—a true gem among the best pizza restaurants in Nashville, TN. This exceptional establishment has not just served pizzas, but has redefined the city’s approach to this beloved dish, blending innovation, local flavors, and extraordinary culinary craftsmanship.
From its strategic downtown location to its commitment to inclusivity with outstanding gluten-free options, Brugada Kitchen and Bar represents more than just a restaurant—it’s a culinary experience that captures the essence of Nashville’s dynamic food culture. The restaurant’s dedication to locally sourced ingredients, creative pizza combinations, and exceptional dining atmosphere sets a new standard for pizza excellence.
For pizza enthusiasts, food lovers, and culinary adventurers, Nashville offers an unparalleled journey of flavors and experiences. Each pizzeria tells a unique story, but Brugada Kitchen and Bar stands out as a must-visit destination that embodies the city’s innovative spirit.
We invite you to embark on your own pizza exploration. Start your culinary adventure at Brugada Kitchen and Bar, where every slice tells a story of Nashville’s rich gastronomic tradition. Whether you’re a local resident or a visiting food lover, this restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience that will transform your understanding of pizza.
Don’t just read about Nashville’s pizza scene—experience it. Make your reservation at Brugada Kitchen and Bar today, and discover why this restaurant has become a cornerstone of the city’s culinary landscape.
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